bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Performance Analysis of an Atomic Layer Thermopile Sensor for Composite Heat Flux Testing in an Explosive Environment
Authors: Li Zhiling , Wang Gao , Yin Jianping , Xue Hongxin , Guo Jinqin , Wang Yong , Huang Manguo
Published: August 2023

Traditional contact heat flux sensors suffer from a lack of dynamic performance, and existing non-contact optical heat measurement equipment fails to detect convective heat transfer effectively. This limitation precludes the effective testing of composite heat flux in explosive fields. This study introduces an ultra-responsive atomic layer thermopile (ALTP) heat flux sensor, developed and employed for the first time, to evaluate the transient heat flux associated with thermobaric explosions. Measurements reveal that the ALTP sensor’s temporal resolution surpasses that of the thermal resistance thin film heat flux sensor (TFHF), attaining a spectral response time of 10 μs under pulsed laser irradiation. Beyond these radiation-based tests, the present work also conducted novel simulation analyses of high-temperature jet impacts using COMSOL software. Static simulation discovered that fluid velocity significantly influences ALTP’s sensitivity, resulting in an error of 71%. Conversely, dynamic simulation demonstrated that an increase in fluid velocity reduces the ALTP’s time constant, whereas other factors such as fluid temperature exert minimal impact on its dynamic characteristics. This confirms that the simulation model compensates for the cost and accuracy deficiencies of convection heating tests. It also provides a new way to analyze the error of explosive heat flux measurement caused by sensitivity fluctuation and insufficient dynamic performance. In thermobaric explosive trials, the maximum heat fluxes recorded were 202 kW/m2 in semi-enclosed environments and 526 kW/m2 in open environments. A distinctive double-wave phenomenon was evident in the test curve. By a fast-response thermocouple, the study was able to differentiate between radiation and convective heat flux in the explosion field. The findings substantiate that the ALTP sensor amalgamates the benefits of optical thermal measurement tools with those of traditional contact heat flux sensors, thereby facilitating composite heat flux measurements in the challenging conditions of an explosive field.
Evaluating Efficiency of Connected and Autonomous Vehicles with Different Communication Topologies
Authors: Liu Hui , Gong Lian , Chen Xing , Zheng Xunjia , Lv Cheng
Published: August 2023

Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAV) employ vehicle-to-vehicle communications to safely drive in a platoon with short inter-vehicle distances, which can improve traffic throughput and reduce fuel consumption. With the development of wireless communication technology, more and more information can be used for vehicle controllers. However, is more information better? In this paper, a fuel economy-based performance evaluation index is established for evaluating the efficiency of CAVs driving in a platoon with different communication topologies. Four typical communication topologies that describe the CAV with different amounts of information are studied by the linear controller. The differential evolution algorithm is used to solve the parameters. Due to the increase in information, more control parameters need to be computed, and it is hard to find an optimal solution. So, the simulation results show that CAV with more information did not obtain a better fuel economy.
Li3PO4-Coated Graphite Anode for Thermo-Electrochemically Stable Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Sung Jong Hun , Kim Taewan , Kim Soljin , Hasan Fuead , Mohanty Sangram Keshari , Srinivasa Madhusudana Koratikere , Reddy Sri Charan , Yoo Hyun Deog
Published: August 2023

Extensive research on electrode materials has been sparked by the rising demand for high-energy-density rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Graphite is a crucial component of LIB anodes, as more than 90% of the commercialized cathodes are coupled with the graphite anode. For the advanced graphite anode, the fast charge–discharge electrochemical performance and the thermal stability need to be further improved in order to meet the growing demand. Herein, a graphite anode material’s thermo-electrochemical stability was improved by the surface coating of lithium phosphate (Li3PO4; LPO). The graphite anode with a well-dispersed LPO-coating layer (graphite@LPO) demonstrated significant improvement in the cycle and rate performances. The graphite@LPO sample showed a capacity retention of 67.8% after 300 cycles at 60 °C, whereas the pristine graphite anode failed after 225 cycles, confirming the ameliorated thermo-electrochemical stability and cyclability by LPO coating. The improved thermo-electrochemical stability of the graphite@LPO anode was validated by the full-cell tests as well. The performance enhancement by LPO-coating is due to the suppression of the growth of the surface film and charge-transfer resistances during the repeated cycling, as evidenced by the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis.
A Comprehensive Review of Key Technologies for Enhancing the Reliability of Lithium-Ion Power Batteries
Authors: Ren Yue , Jin Chunhua , Fang Shu , Yang Li , Wu Zixuan , Wang Ziyang , Peng Rui , Gao Kaiye
Published: August 2023

Fossil fuel usage has a great impact on the environment and global climate. Promoting new energy vehicles (NEVs) is essential for green and low-carbon transportation and supporting sustainable development. Lithium-ion power batteries (LIPBs) are crucial energy-storage components in NEVs, directly influencing their performance and safety. Therefore, exploring LIPB reliability technologies has become a vital research area. This paper aims to comprehensively summarize the progress in LIPB reliability research. First, we analyze existing reliability studies on LIPB components and common estimation methods. Second, we review the state-estimation methods used for accurate battery monitoring. Third, we summarize the commonly used optimization methods in fault diagnosis and lifetime prediction. Fourth, we conduct a bibliometric analysis. Finally, we identify potential challenges for future LIPB research. Through our literature review, we find that: (1) model-based and data-driven approaches are currently more commonly used in state-estimation methods; (2) neural networks and deep learning are the most prevalent methods in fault diagnosis and lifetime prediction; (3) bibliometric analysis indicates a high interest in LIPB reliability technology in China compared to other countries; (4) this research needs further development in overall system reliability, research on real-world usage scenarios, and advanced simulation and modeling techniques.
Experimental Study on the Feasibility of Quick Startup of Instant Heat Pump Water Heaters Based on Active Control of Heat Sink Flow Step
Authors: Ju Fujun , Mu Zhenzhen , Li Guozhu , Hou Lihao , Fan Xiaowei , Liu Hongtao , Liu Qinglei , Liu Wenbo
Published: August 2023

The influence of flow step ratio (FSR) on the startup characteristics of instant heat pump water heaters (IHPWHs) with natural mixture M (R744/R290 (12/88)) under nominal conditions was studied experimentally to verify the feasibility of a new quick startup method. The results show that the FSR had a marked effect on the startup time of system performance parameters. Under the optimal FSR of 0.6, the shortest system startup time and available hot water supply time were 700 s and 250 s, respectively, which were markedly shorter than those in the conventional startup. Therefore, rapid startup of the system and rapid production of usable domestic hot water can be realized by controlling the flow step. The influence of flow step on the variation trend of system performance parameters was obviously different, and there was no slow warming section for the heat sink outlet temperature (HSOT) under three FSRs. The HSOT, heating capacity, and high pressure side pressures had the maximum values in the quick startup, and the maximum values were obviously affected by the FSR. The FSR had no marked effect on the minimum suction pressure. The refrigerant pressures and refrigerant temperatures fluctuated markedly in both rapid and conventional starts.
Effects of Diacetinmonoglycerides and Triacetin on Biodiesel Quality
Authors: Casas Abraham , Pérez Ángel , Ramos María Jesús
Published: August 2023

Triacetin offers a higher added value compared to glycerol and can be obtained during the interesterification reaction between methyl acetate and triglycerides. In the same reaction, diacetinmonoglyceride is produced as an intermediate compound. The objective of this study was to assess whether the biodiesel produced, with varying concentrations of these compounds, meets the requirements established by the EN 14214 and ASTM D6751 standards. To achieve this, several properties were measured, including density, kinematic viscosity, cloud point, pour point, cold filter plugging point, methyl ester content, mono-, di-, triglyceride and total glycerol content, as well as the vacuum distillation curve. These measurements were conducted on mixtures of triacetin, diacetinmonoglyceride, and biodiesel, using different types of biodiesel such as palm, soybean, sunflower and rapeseed. Additionally, the solubility of these ternary mixtures in conventional diesel was evaluated. The results indicated that the EN 14214 standard imposes limits on the density and viscosity of biodiesel, restricting the content of triacetin (up to 5–10% by weight) and diacetinmonoglyceride (up to 3–4% by weight). However, the content of monoglycerides presents the most restrictive condition, as the chromatographic technique used cannot differentiate between monoglycerides and diacetinmonoglycerides. Consequently, their content is limited to a range of 0.15% to 0.70% by weight, depending on the prevailing climate conditions. Similarly, the ASTM D6751 standard sets a limitation of 0.40% by weight for monoglycerides to three out of six grades of biodiesel. Based on the findings of this study, which demonstrate that diacetinmonoglycerides do not have adverse effects on the cold performance of biodiesel, the inclusion of diacetinmonoglycerides in biodiesel production would still necessitate the development of standard test methods capable of differentiating between monoglycerides and diacetinmonoglycerides.
Blockchain-Based Applications for Smart Grids: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Zhao Wenbing , Qi Quan , Zhou Jiong , Luo Xiong
Published: August 2023

This article presents an umbrella review of blockchain-based smart grid applications. By umbrella review, we mean that our review is based on systematic reviews of this topic. We aim to synthesize the findings from these systematic reviews and gain deeper insights into this discipline. After studying the systematic reviews, we find it imperative to provide a concise and authoritative description of blockchain technology because many technical inaccuracies permeate many of these papers. This umbrella review is guided by five research questions. The first research question concerns the types of blockchain-based smart grid applications. Existing systematic reviews rarely used a systematic method to classify these applications. To address this issue, we propose a taxonomy of these applications, first by differentiating them based on whether the application is focusing on functional or non-functional aspects of smart grid operations, and then by the specific functions or perspectives that the application aims to implement or enhance. The second research question concerns the roles that blockchain technology plays in smart grid applications. We synthesize the findings by identifying the most prominent benefits that blockchain technology could bring to these applications. We also take the opportunity to point out several common technical mistakes that pervade the blockchain literature, such as equating all forms of blockchains to data immutability. The third research question concerns the guidelines for deciding whether a blockchain-based solution would be useful to address the needs of smart grids. We synthesize the findings by proposing benefit-based guidelines. The fourth research question concerns the maturity levels of blockchain-based smart grid applications. We differentiate between academic-led and industry-led projects. We propose a five-level scale to evaluate the maturity levels. The ranking of the industry-led projects is performed through our own investigation. Our investigation shows that more than half of the industry-led projects mentioned in the systematic reviews are no longer active. Furthermore, although there are numerous news reports and a large number of academic papers published on blockchain-based smart grid applications, very few have been successfully embraced by the industry. The fifth research question concerns the open research issues in the development of blockchain-based smart grid applications. We synthesize the findings and provide our own analysis.
Review of Voltage Control Strategies for DC Microgrids
Authors: Lu Zhiye , Wang Lishu , Wang Panbao
Published: August 2023

With the continuous development of the global economic level, global energy consumption is also on the rise, and the global power industry is faced with a number of formidable challenges including load growth, low energy efficiency, high power quality, and environmental protection. Despite the fact that distributed energy cannot be directly connected to the power grid, the concept of the microgrid (MG) is proposed to make better use of distributed energy and reduce its effect on the power grid. The low cost and high controllability of DC MGs have piqued the interest of academicians both at home and abroad. If DC MGs are to be implemented in real-world engineering, a stability control strategy is required; therefore, research on voltage stability and coordinated control of DC MGs is extremely important and promising. This paper summarizes the current research on the voltage control strategy of the DC MG from the perspective of the voltage control strategy of the DC MG. Lastly, it is proposed that the future development of DC MGs will be more focused on intelligence and control precision and that the consistency algorithm combined with the benefits of centralized control and distributed control can effectively aid the future development of DC MGs, taking into account the grid’s dependability and control precision.
Radiant Floor Cooling Systems: A Critical Review of Modeling Methods
Authors: Bizzarri Marco , Conti Paolo , Glicksman Leon R. , Schito Eva , Testi Daniele
Published: August 2023

Radiant floor heating systems have become a reference technology, but their use for cooling purposes has proven inconvenient in many applications due to their reduced cooling capacity and condensation issues. Nonetheless, potentialities and drawbacks of radiant floor cooling systems have been frequently addressed and simulated, given the large potential advantages of employing a single emissive system for all seasons. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the modeling methods for radiant floor cooling systems proposed in scientific papers and also used in simulation software and technical standards. Models are classified according to their characterizing features, and the distinctive contributions of each method are discussed. Additionally, the modeling of the most relevant phenomena affecting floor performance is further discussed. The review revealed the presence of two main modeling classes, one only focusing on the floor’s conductive heat transfer and the other integrating active floor analysis within the building’s energy model of the thermal zone. Despite the presence of many modeling methods that are able to consider the most important effects in the radiant cooling system operation, not all the phenomena present in a practical application are fully described. Therefore, there is an ongoing need for more comprehensive, possibly easily characterizable, modeling approaches.
Fuel-Saving-Oriented Collaborative Driving Strategy for Commercial Vehicles Based on Driving Style Recognition
Authors: Chu Hongqing , Li Zongxuan , Wang Jialin , Hong Jinlong
Published: August 2023

Fuel-saving-oriented collaborative driving is a highly promising yet challenging endeavor that requires satisfying the driver’s operational intentions while surpassing the driver’s fuel-saving performance. In light of this challenge, the paper introduces an innovative collaborative driving strategy tailored to the objective of fuel conservation in the context of commercial vehicles. An enhancement to this strategy involves the development of a network prediction model for vehicle speed, leveraging insights from driver style recognition. Employing the predicted speed as a reference, a model-predictive-control-based optimal controller is designed to track the reference while optimizing fuel consumption. Furthermore, a straightforward yet effective collaborative rule is proposed to ensure alignment with the driver’s intention. Subsequently, the proposed control scheme is validated through simulation and real-world driving data, revealing that the human–machine cooperative driving controller saves 4% more fuel than human drivers.
A Drag Reduction Study on the Aerodynamics of the Irish Taxi Sign
Authors: Connolly Michael Gerard , O’Rourke Malachy J. , Ivankovic Alojz
Published: August 2023

This comprehensive study focused on the standard taxi sign used in Ireland and its impact on drag production, fuel expenses, and CO2 emissions. Experimental analysis revealed that the conventional taxi sign significantly increased drag, especially when mounted on streamlined vehicles such as saloon cars, due to flow separation issues on the rear roof and rear windshield. Longitudinal reorientation of the sign offered a 14-fold reduction in drag increase compared to the traditional placement. It was found that positioning the sign in the middle of the roof offered the greatest fuel efficiency. Furthermore, the study estimated that implementing longitudinal repositioning on all Irish taxi signs could save drivers approximately EUR 832 per year and reduce national CO2 emissions by a substantial 22,464 tonnes annually. Comparative analyses with international taxi signs demonstrated that the Irish sign had significantly larger drag contributions, emphasizing the need for improved aerodynamics. To address the inherent drag issue, the study explored novel appendable devices and proposed alternative taxi sign designs. Among the tested solutions, a magnet-mounted front ramp proved the most effective, reducing total drag by nearly 30%. Additionally, a motorized flip-up taxi sign design demonstrated a remarkable 40% reduction in drag. Finally, a newly proposed taxi sign design, featuring longitudinal positioning and pointed triangular front and rear faces, resulted in a minimal 4.3% increase in vehicle drag compared to the baseline car.
Comparative Analysis of Key Odorants and Aroma Characteristics in Hot-Pressed Yellow Horn (Xanthoceras sorbifolia bunge) Seed Oil Via Gas Chromatography–Ion Mobility Spectrometry and Gas Chromatography–Olfactory-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Gao Hui , Liu Mengkai , Zheng Lili , Zhang Tingting , Chang Xiuliang , Liu He , Zhou Sen , Zhang Zhiran , Li Shengxin , Sun Jie
Published: August 2023

Volatile compounds (VOCs) present in the oil extracted from yellow horn seeds were first analyzed using GC-IMS and GC-O-MS at varying roasting temperatures. A total of 97 VOCs were detected using GC-IMS, while 77 were tentatively identified using GC-O-MS. Moreover, both methods allowed the identification of 24 VOCs, of which the type of aldehydes is the most abundant. Combining the results of GC-IMS, GC-O-MS, OAVs, and VIP, it was concluded that hexanal, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, heptanal, 2-pentylfuran, 1-hexanol, and 1-octen-3-ol were the key aroma compounds. The PLS-DA and OPLS-DA models have demonstrated the ability to discriminate between different oil roasting temperatures with high accuracy. The roasting temperature of 160 °C was found to yield the highest content of main aroma substances, indicating its optimality for yellow horn seed oil production. These findings will prove beneficial for optimizing industrial production and enhancing oil aroma control.
Harnessing Natural Antioxidants for Enhancing Food Shelf Life: Exploring Sources and Applications in the Food Industry
Authors: Petcu Carmen Daniela , Tăpăloagă Dana , Mihai Oana Diana , Gheorghe-Irimia Raluca-Aniela , Negoiță Carmen , Georgescu Ioana Mădălina , Tăpăloagă Paul Rodian , Borda Cristin , Ghimpețeanu Oana Mărgărita
Published: August 2023

Consumers are increasingly showing in maintaining a healthy dietary regimen, while food manufacturers are striving to develop products that possess an extended shelf-life to meet the demands of the market. Numerous studies have been conducted to identify natural sources that contribute to the preservation of perishable food derived from animals and plants, thereby prolonging its shelf life. Hence, the present study focuses on the identification of both natural sources of antioxidants and their applications in the development of novel food products, as well as their potential for enhancing product shelf-life. The origins of antioxidants in nature encompass a diverse range of products, including propolis, beebread, and extracts derived through various physical–chemical processes. Currently, there is a growing body of research being conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of natural antioxidants in the processing and preservation of various food products, including meat and meat products, milk and dairy products, bakery products, and bee products. The prioritization of discovering novel sources of natural antioxidants is a crucial concern for the meat, milk, and other food industries. Additionally, the development of effective methods for applying these natural antioxidants is a significant objective in the food industry.
Potential Correlation between Microbial Diversity and Volatile Flavor Substances in a Novel Chinese-Style Sausage during Storage
Authors: Chen Hongfan , Kang Xinyue , Wang Xinyi , Chen Xinya , Nie Xin , Xiang Lu , Liu Dayu , Zhao Zhiping
Published: August 2023

A novel Chinese-style sausage with Chinese traditional fermented condiments used as additional ingredients is produced in this study. The aim of this study was to investigate the microbial community’s structure, the volatile flavor substances and their potential correlation in the novel Chinese sausage. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) and solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were, respectively, used to analyze the microbial diversity and volatile flavor substances of the novel Chinese-style sausage during storage. The results showed that Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were the predominant bacterial genera, and Hyphopichia and Candida were the predominant fungal genera. A total of 88 volatile flavor substances were identified through GC-MS, among which 18 differential flavor compounds were screened (VIP > 1), which could be used as potential biomarkers to distinguish the novel sausages stored for different periods. Lactobacillus exhibited a significant negative correlation with 2,3-epoxy-4,4-dimethylpentane and acetoin and a significant positive correlation with 2-phenyl-2-butenal. Hyphopichia significantly positively correlated with ester. Leuconostoc significantly positively correlated with ethyl caprate, ethyl palmate, ethyl tetradecanoate and ethyl oleate while it negatively correlated with hexanal. This study provides a theoretical basis for revealing the flavor formation mechanisms and the screening of functional strains for improving the flavor quality of the novel Chinese-style sausage.
Fabrication and Characterization of Apple-Pectin–PVA-Based Nanofibers for Improved Viability of Probiotics
Authors: Nawaz Asad , Irshad Sana , Walayat Noman , Khan Mohammad Rizwan , Iqbal Muhammad Waheed , Luo Xiaofang
Published: August 2023

In the current study, apple-pectin-based novel nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and apple pectin (PEC) solution were mixed to obtain an optimized ratio for the preparation of electrospun nanofibers. The obtained nanofibers were characterized for their physiochemical, mechanical and thermal properties. The nanofibers were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, an assay of the in vitro viability of free and encapsulated probiotics was carried out under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The results of TGA revealed that the PVA/PEC nanofibers had good thermal stability. The probiotics encapsulated by electrospinning showed a high survival rate as compared to free cells under simulated gastrointestinal conditions. Furthermore, encapsulated probiotics and free cells showed a 3 log (cfu/mL) and 10 log (cfu/mL) reduction, respectively, from 30 to 120 min of simulated digestion. These findings indicate that the PVA/PEC-based nanofibers have good barrier properties and could potentially be used for the improved viability of probiotics under simulated gastrointestinal conditions and in the development of functional foods.
Foundations of Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics in Extended State Space
Authors: Gujrati Purushottam Das
Published: August 2023

The review provides a pedagogical but comprehensive introduction to the foundations of a recently proposed statistical mechanics (μNEQT) of a stable nonequilibrium thermodynamic body, which may be either isolated or interacting. It is an extension of the well-established equilibrium statistical mechanics by considering microstates mk in an extended state space in which macrostates (obtained by ensemble averaging A^) are uniquely specified so they share many properties of stable equilibrium macrostates. The extension requires an appropriate extended state space, three distinct infinitessimals dα=(d,de,di) operating on various quantities q during a process, and the concept of reduction. The mechanical process quantities (no stochasticity) like macrowork are given by A^dαq, but the stochastic quantities C^αq like macroheat emerge from the commutator C^α of dα and A^. Under the very common assumptions of quasi-additivity and quasi-independence, exchange microquantities deqk such as exchange microwork and microheat become nonfluctuating over mk as will be explained, a fact that does not seem to have been appreciated so far in diverse branches of modern statistical thermodynamics (fluctuation theorems, quantum thermodynamics, stochastic thermodynamics, etc.) that all use exchange quantities. In contrast, dqk and diqk are always fluctuating. There is no analog of the first law for a microstate as the latter is a purely mechanical construct. The second law emerges as a consequence of the stability of the system, and cannot be violated unless stability is abandoned. There is also an important thermodynamic identity diQ≡diW ≥ 0 with important physical implications as it generalizes the well-known result of Count Rumford and the Gouy-Stodola theorem of classical thermodynamics. The μNEQT has far-reaching consequences with new results, and presents a new understanding of thermodynamics even of an isolated system at the microstate level, which has been an unsolved problem. We end the review by applying it to three different problems of fundamental interest.
Multiscale Structural Analysis of Ediacaran–Cambrian Rocks on the Northeastern Edge of the Saghro Inlier (Eastern Anti-Atlas): Relevance of Post-Cambrian Deformation
Authors: Yajioui Zakarya , Sant’Ovaia Helena , Karaoui Brahim , Cruz Cláudia , Karaoui Amar , Mahmoudi Abdelkader , El Ouardi Hmidou , Badra Lakhlifi
Published: August 2023

The Ediacaran–Cambrian rocks on the northeastern edge of the Saghro inlier experienced polycyclic tectono-thermal events, which are reported here based on a multiscale structural analysis, from field measurements to fluid inclusion planes. Three striking populations were identified, cutting across both the Ediacaran and Cambrian formations. These tectonic structures were generated during four tectonic events. (i) E-W-striking structures that host ore mineralized bodies (sulfide, oxide, quartz, and barite). They display a polyphase tectonic history, caused by a dextral movement in response to a NW–SE-oriented shortening, leading to the formation of quartz gashes and veins. This tectonic event took place during the Neovariscan. These E–W-striking structures were subsequently reactivated during the Mesozoic time under a sinistral strike-slip regime as a result of NE–SW shortening syn-kinematic with barite mineralization. (ii) NE–SW-striking strike-slip structures (dextral or sinistral) crosscut the E–W-striking veins. These faults are related to the NW–SE-oriented shortening that occurred during the Neogene. (iii) The last tectonic episode, related to the N–S shortening, took place during the late Neogene to the Quaternary period. It resulted in NW–SE to N–S-striking structures that were related to dextral and sinistral strike-slip movements, which crosscut the preexisting E–W structures.
Remote Sensing for Water Quality Monitoring—A Case Study for the Marateca Reservoir, Portugal
Authors: Alegria Cristina , Albuquerque Teresa
Published: August 2023

Continuous monitoring of water resources is essential for ensuring sustainable urban water supply. Remote sensing techniques have proven to be valuable in monitoring certain qualitative parameters of water with optical characteristics. This survey was conducted in the Marateca reservoir located in central inland Portugal, after a major event that killed a considerable number of fish. The objectives of the study were as follows: (1) to define a pollution spectral signature specific to the Marateca reservoir that could shed light on the event; (2) to validate the spectral water’s quality characteristics using the data collected in five gauging points; and (3) to model the characteristics of the reservoir water, including its depth, trophic state, and turbidity. The parameters considered for analysis were total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and chlorophyll-a, which were used to calculate a trophic level index. Sentinel-2 imagery was employed to calculate spectral indices and image ratios for specific bands, aiming at the definition of spectral signatures, and to model the water characteristics in the reservoir. The trophic level index acquired from each of the five gauging points was used for validation purposes. The reservoir’s trophic level was classified as hypereutrophic and eutrophic, indicating its sensitivity to contamination. The developed methodological approach can be easily applied to other reservoirs and serves as a crucial decision-making tool for policymakers.
Identification of Drugs Acting as Perpetrators in Common Drug Interactions in a Cohort of Geriatric Patients from Southern Italy and Analysis of the Gene Polymorphisms That Affect Their Interacting Potential
Authors: Cataldi Mauro , Celentano Camilla , Bencivenga Leonardo , Arcopinto Michele , Resnati Chiara , Manes Annalaura , Dodani Loreta , Comnes Lucia , Vander Stichele Robert , Kalra Dipak , Rengo Giuseppe , Giallauria Francesco , Trama Ugo , Ferrara Nicola , Cittadini Antonio , Taglialatela Maurizio
Published: August 2023

Background: Pharmacogenomic factors affect the susceptibility to drug–drug interactions (DDI). We identified drug interaction perpetrators among the drugs prescribed to a cohort of 290 older adults and analysed the prevalence of gene polymorphisms that can increase their interacting potential. We also pinpointed clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) that incorporate pharmacogenomic factors in DDI risk evaluation. Methods: Perpetrator drugs were identified using the Drug Interactions Flockhart Table, the DRUGBANK website, and the Mayo Clinic Pharmacogenomics Association Table. Allelic variants affecting their activity were identified with the PharmVar, PharmGKB, dbSNP, ensembl and 1000 genome databases. Results: Amiodarone, amlodipine, atorvastatin, digoxin, esomperazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, simvastatin and rosuvastatin were perpetrator drugs prescribed to >5% of our patients. Few allelic variants affecting their perpetrator activity showed a prevalence >2% in the European population: CYP3A4/5*22, *1G, *3, CYP2C9*2 and *3, CYP2C19*17 and *2, CYP2D6*4, *41, *5, *10 and *9 and SLC1B1*15 and *5. Few commercial CDSS include pharmacogenomic factors in DDI-risk evaluation and none of them was designed for use in older adults. Conclusions: We provided a list of the allelic variants influencing the activity of drug perpetrators in older adults which should be included in pharmacogenomics-oriented CDSSs to be used in geriatric medicine.
Oral Manifestations: A Warning-Sign in Children with Hematological Disease Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Soares Sandra Clara , Roux Louis J. D. , Castro Ana Rita , Silva Cristina Cardoso , Rodrigues Rita , Macho Viviana M. P. , Silva Fátima , Costa Céu
Published: August 2023

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is the most frequent form of all childhood leukemias, mostly affecting children between 2 and 4 years old. Oral symptoms, such as mouth ulcers, mucositis, xerostomia, Herpes or Candidiasis, gingival enlargement and bleeding, petechiae, erythema, mucosal pallor and atrophic glossitis, are very common symptoms of ALL and can be early signs of the disease. Secondary and tertiary complications, a direct effect of chemo and radiotherapy, are associated with more severe bleeding, higher susceptibility to infections, ulcerations, inflammation of the mucous membranes, osteoradionecrosis, xerostomia, taste alterations, trismus, carious lesions and dental abnormalities. Immunotherapy, though less toxic, causes oral dysesthesia and pain. Overall, the effects in the oral cavity are transient but there are long-term consequences like caries, periodontal disease and tooth loss that impair endodontic and orthodontic treatments. Also, dental abnormalities resulting from disturbed odontogenesis are known to affect a child’s quality of life. The medical dentist should identify these complications and perform appropriate oral care in tandem with other health professionals. Thus, poor oral hygiene can lead to systemic ALL complications. The aim of this review is to describe the oral complications in children with ALL who are undergoing chemo, radio or immunotherapy.
Oxygen Bubble Dynamics in PEM Water Electrolyzers with a Deep-Learning-Based Approach
Authors: Sinapan Idriss , Lin-Kwong-Chon Christophe , Damour Cédric , Kadjo Jean-Jacques Amangoua , Benne Michel
Published: August 2023

Oxygen bubble accumulation on the anodic side of a polymer exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) may cause a decrease in performance. To understand the behavior of these bubbles, a deep-learning-based bubble flow recognition tool dedicated to a PEMWE is developed. Combining the transparent side of a single PEMWE cell with a high-resolution high-speed camera allows us to acquire images of the two-phase flow in the channels. From these images, a deep learning vision system using a fine-tuned YOLO V7 model is applied to detect oxygen bubbles. The tool achieved a high mean average precision of 70%, confirmed the main observations in the literature, and provided exciting insights into the characteristics of two-phase flow regimes. In fact, increasing the water flow rate from 0.05 to 0.4 L/min decreases the bubble coverage (by around 32%) and the mean single-bubble area. In addition, increasing the current density from 0.3 to 1.4 A/cm2 leads to an increase in bubble coverage (by around 40%) and bubble amount.
Positional Accuracy Assessment of Digital Elevation Models and 3D Vector Datasets Using Check-Surfaces
Authors: Mozas-Calvache Antonio Tomás
Published: August 2023

This study focuses on the positional accuracy of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and 3D vector features by considering that both datasets can be used as a product to assess or as a reference. The main objective is to provide an alternative method to the traditional use of checkpoints by using check-surfaces in order to avoid identification issues. The methodology includes the determination of a set of polygons with a significant height in relation to the surrounding area (elevated or depressed) and those cells extracted from the DEM that match these elements. The check-surfaces are obtained after a triangulation of these polygons. The methodology uses procedures based on buffers to provide several results in the form of distribution functions of accuracies (2D, vertical and 3D). The trial has been carried out using a large set of data representing buildings obtained from official institutions. The results show consistent 2D, vertical and 3D accuracy values related to commonly used confidence levels. The application has demonstrated the viability of this approach for obtaining horizontal and vertical accuracies individually and jointly at any confidence level. In addition, the study includes the analysis of the results of specific zones, considering several characteristics.
Evaluation of Sustainable Development Potential of High-Speed Railway Station Areas Based on “Node-Place-Industry” Model
Authors: Zou Zhuojun , Tang Yiwen
Published: August 2023

The development of the HSR station area is the result of the combined effect of the three elements of transport, place, and industry. This study introduces the industrial dimension and constructs the node-place-industry model to empirically analyze the development potential of station areas along the Hunan section of the Beijing–Guangzhou and the Shanghai–Kunming high-speed railway lines. The results show that (1) the development of the three spatial elements of the station area is mostly out of sync, and the node value has the highest fit with the integrated potential value of the station area; (2) there is a significant correlation between the magnitude of the combined potential of the station area and the site location, station class and time of development; (3) according to the results of the cluster analysis, it was found that most of the stations were in a state of disequilibrium, and the main reason was that the functional value of the place did not match with the value of industrial aggregation. In particular, the introduction of the industry dimension extends the NP model and establishes a tessellated analytical framework for station type classification, providing an interesting assessment tool for the sustainable development of transport hub areas.
Serum High-Mobility Group Box 1 and Heme Oxygenase-1 as Biomarkers in COVID-19 Patients at Hospital Admission
Authors: Grigorov Ilijana , Pejić Snežana , Todorović Ana , Drakulić Dunja , Veljković Filip , Vukajlović Jadranka Miletić , Bobić Katarina , Soldatović Ivan , Đurašević Siniša , Jasnić Nebojša , Stanković Sanja , Glumac Sofija , Mihailović-Vučinić Violeta , Milenković Branislava
Published: August 2023

The careful monitoring of patients with mild/moderate COVID-19 is of particular importance because of the rapid progression of complications associated with COVID-19. For prognostic reasons and for the economic management of health care resources, additional biomarkers need to be identified, and their monitoring can conceivably be performed in the early stages of the disease. In this retrospective cross-sectional study, we found that serum concentrations of high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), at the time of hospital admission, could be useful biomarkers for COVID-19 management. The study included 160 randomly selected recovered patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 on admission. Compared with healthy controls, serum HMGB1 and HO-1 levels increased by 487.6 pg/mL versus 43.1 pg/mL and 1497.7 pg/mL versus 756.1 pg/mL, respectively. Serum HO-1 correlated significantly with serum HMGB1, oxidative stress parameters (malondialdehyde (MDA), the phosphatidylcholine/lysophosphatidylcholine ratio (PC/LPC), the ratio of reduced and oxidative glutathione (GSH/GSSG)), and anti-inflammatory acute phase proteins (ferritin, haptoglobin). Increased heme catabolism/hemolysis were not detected. We hypothesize that the increase in HO-1 in the early phase of COVID-19 disease is likely to have a survival benefit by providing protection against oxidative stress and inflammation, whereas the level of HMGB1 increase reflects the activity of the innate immune system and represents levels within which the disease can be kept under control.
Puerarin Inhibits NLRP3-Caspase-1-GSDMD-Mediated Pyroptosis via P2X7 Receptor in Cardiomyocytes and Macrophages
Authors: Sun Shuchan , Gong Difei , Liu Ruiqi , Wang Ranran , Chen Di , Yuan Tianyi , Wang Shoubao , Xing Cheng , Lv Yang , Du Guanhua , Fang Lianhua
Published: August 2023

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a critical complication of long-term chronic diabetes mellitus, and it is characterized by myocardial fibrosis and myocardial hypertrophy. Previous studies have shown that the pyroptosis pathway was significantly activated in DCM and may be related to the P2X7 receptor. However, the role of the P2X7 receptor in the development of DCM with pyroptosis is still unclear. In this study, we aimed to explore the mechanism of puerarin and whether the P2X7 receptor can be used as a new target for puerarin in the treatment of DCM. We adopted systematic pharmacology and bioinformatic approaches to identify the potential targets of puerarin for treating DCM. Additionally, we employed D-glucose-induced H9C2 rat cardiomyocytes and lipopolysaccharide-treated RAW264.7 mouse mononuclear macrophages as the in vitro model on DCM research, which is close to the pathological conditions. The mRNA expression of cytokines in H9C2 cells and RAW264.7 macrophages was detected. The protein expressions of NLRP3, N-GSDMD, cleaved-caspase-1, and the P2X7 receptor were investigated with Western blot analysis. Furthermore, molecular docking of puerarin and the P2X7 receptor was conducted based on CDOCKER. A total of 348 puerarin targets and 4556 diabetic cardiomyopathy targets were detected, of which 218 were cross targets. We demonstrated that puerarin is effective in enhancing cardiomyocyte viability and improving mitochondrial function. In addition, puerarin is efficacious in blocking NLRP3-Caspase-1-GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis in H9C2 cells and RAW264.7 cells, alleviating cellular inflammation. On the other hand, similar experimental results were obtained by intervention with the P2X7 receptor antagonist A740003, suggesting that the protective effects of puerarin are related to the P2X7 receptor. The molecular docking results indicated key binding activity between the P2X7 receptor and puerarin. These findings indicate that puerarin effectively regulated the pyroptosis signaling pathway during DCM, and this regulation was associated with the P2X7 receptor.
Evaluation of Spore Acquisition, Spore Production, and Host Survival Time for Tea Shot-Hole Borer, Euwallacea perbrevis, Adults after Exposure to Four Commercial Products Containing Beauveria bassiana
Authors: Chavez Alejandra V. , Duren Emily B. , Avery Pasco B. , Pitino Marco , Duncan Rita E. , Cruz Luisa F. , Carrillo Daniel , Cano Liliana M. , Cave Ronald D.
Published: August 2023

Euwallacea perbrevis, the tea shot-hole borer (TSHB), is an invasive ambrosia beetle that vectors several fungal pathogens that cause Fusarium branch dieback in avocado trees in southern Florida. This study assessed the potential of four commercial products containing the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bb) for managing adult TSHB beetles. Formulated products containing Bb strains to which adult beetles were exposed were BioCeres WP, BotaniGard WP, BotaniGard ES, and Velifer ES. Controls consisted of water only and BotaniGard ES and Velifer ES supernatant with spores removed. Acquisition of spores by adult beetles dipped in product suspensions with 2.5 ± 0.1 × 106 spores/mL was assessed. Survival time of beetles after residual exposure to the Bb-based products in an in vivo avocado bark plug bioassay was determined. Production of Bb spores on beetles after being dipped in product suspensions and placed in a moistened bark-plug assay with water only was assessed. Significantly more spores were acquired by beetles exposed to Velifer ES and BotaniGard ES than beetles exposed to the other fungal products. Beetles exposed to Velifer ES and BotaniGard ES died faster (6–8 days) compared to beetles dipped in the other fungal products (10–11 days) and controls (12 days). Percentage of mycosis was highest with beetles exposed to Velifer ES (63%). Spore production on cadavers of beetles dipped in Velifer ES (20 ± 6.4 × 105 spores/cadaver) was the highest among all treatments, whereas it was the lowest on cadavers of beetles dipped in BotaniGard ES (1 ± 0.2 × 105 spores/cadaver). All Bb-based products, especially Velifer ES, demonstrated potential to manage TSHB populations under laboratory conditions. These Bb-based fungal products should be tested under field conditions to confirm these laboratory results.
The Potential Role of Hypothalamic Phospholipid Liposomes in the Supportive Therapy of Some Manifestations of Post-COVID-19 Condition: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Brain Fog
Authors: Menichetti Francesco
Published: August 2023

Post-COVID-19 condition (commonly known as Long COVID) is a heterogeneous clinical condition in which Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and brain fog stand out among the different clinical symptoms and syndromes. Cerebral metabolic alterations and neuroendocrine disorders seem to constitute an important part of the pathophysiology of Post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). Given the substantial lack of specific drugs and effective therapeutic strategies, hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes, which have been on the market for several years as adjuvant therapy for cerebral metabolic alterations resulting from neuroendocrine disorders, might represent a potential option in an overall therapeutic strategy that aims to control PCC-associated symptoms and syndromes. Their pharmacological mechanisms and clinical effects strongly support their potential effectiveness in PCC. Our initial clinical experience seems to corroborate this rationale. Further controlled clinical research is warranted in order to verify this hypothesis.
Clinical Utility of Pre-Therapeutic [18F]FDG PET/CT Imaging for Predicting Outcomes in Breast Cancer
Authors: Najid Sophia , Seban Romain-David , Champion Laurence , De Moura Alexandre , Sebbag Clara , Salaün Hélène , Cabel Luc , Bonneau Claire
Published: August 2023

Background: [18F]FDG PET/CT is used for staging and could also provide information associated with clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine the clinical utility of biomarkers measured using [18F]FDG PET/CT to predict the absence of pathological complete response (no-pCR) and recurrence. Methods: In this retrospective study, we included patients with non-special-type breast carcinoma who underwent [18F]FDG PET/CT before neoadjuvant chemotherapy between 2011 and 2019. Clinicopathological data were collected. Tumor SUVmax and total metabolic tumor volume (TMTV) were measured from PET images. The association between biomarkers and no-pCR was studied using logistic regression. The cut-off value was determined using the area under the ROC Curve. To predict 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS), we used a multivariable Cox model, and the cut-off value was determined using time-dependent ROC and predictiveness curves. Results: Two hundred and eighty-six patients were included in the analysis. One hundred and twelve patients had a pCR (39.2%). The pCR rate was significantly higher in patients with a high nuclear grade (p < 0.01), HER2+ and TNBC subtypes (p < 0.01), high Ki67 (p < 0.01), and low TMTV (p < 0.01). A high TMTV value (>9.0 cm3) was significantly associated with no-pCR in the whole cohort (OR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.3–4.2, p < 0.01). After a median follow-up of 4.5 years, 65 patients experienced recurrence and 39 patients died. High TMTV (>13.5 cm3) was associated with shorter RFS (HR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.9–8.4, p < 0.01). Conclusion: High TMTV in pre-therapeutic imaging is associated with no-pCR and recurrence. It can help in identifying high-risk patients and be considered as an intensified or alternative adjuvant therapy for closely monitoring patients.