bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impacts of sustainable industrial revolution (IR) on the profitability of Hungarian food companies
Authors: Máté Domicián , Oláh Judit , Erdei Edina , Estiyanti Ni Made , Bács Zoltán , Kovács Sándor
Published: October 2022

There is growing literature on the concept and objectives of corporate sustainability (CS), but less attention is paid to a comprehensive approach to economic, social and ecological factors and industrial revolution (IR). Specifically, this paper contributes to the academic debate on the relationship between CS and IR in agri-food economics using firm-level data. The study used quantitative pathway models to measure the extent to which technologies affect the development of social, ecological and economic factors in Hungarian food manufacturing companies. The research was conducted using partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) and categorical principal component analysis (CATPCA) to calculate the direct and indirect effects of IR technologies on profitability outcomes. This study has shown that the livable and sustainable path hypotheses can be confirmed. Consequently, the food manufacturing businesses whose managers think along the viable and sustainable lines tend to be more profitable. However, the ecological and economic factors strengthened the positive impact of the social dimension on food corporate profitability. Decision-makers should not wait for a pie in the sky for emerging sustainability but consciously embrace the CS issues that only provide a direction for the changes.
Microvascular anastomosis in a challenging setting using a 4 K three-dimensional exoscope compared with a conventional microscope: An in vivo animal study
Authors: Zhang Zhiping , Feng Yao , Lu Xia , Yang Bin , Zhang Hongqi , Ma Yan
Published: October 2022

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) exoscope systems have been developed and are reported to be adequate alternatives to the conventional microscope. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and effectivity of microvascular anastomosis using a 4 K 3D exoscope in an in vivo animal study.

Methods

The abdominal aortas of mice were selected as the target vessels for comparing the outcomes of microvascular anastomosis for both the conventional microscope and 3D exoscope. We recorded the vessel separation, temporary occlusion, and total procedure durations. Local conditions at the sutures were also recorded. Typical histopathological images were presented, and the patency of anastomotic vessels within 5 and 30 min were evaluated. All procedures included both superficial and deep anastomosis.

Results

Sixty mice were included in the analysis; the weight and vascular diameter were 38.5 ± 5.8 g and 0.77 ± 0.06 mm, respectively, and around 8 stiches were required. Regarding feasibility, vessel separation duration, temporary occlusion duration, total procedure duration, blood leak, and number of vascular folds between stiches, the results were comparable between the two types of microscopes. The feasibility of anastomosis was also confirmed by pathology. Regarding effectiveness, anastomotic vascular patency at 5 and 30 min were similar for both microscopes. Even in the more difficult scenario of deep anastomosis, the results were comparable.

Conclusions

In a challenging experimental setting, comparable outcomes of microvascular anastomosis were observed for the conventional microscope and 3D exoscope in these animal experiments. Therefore, in vivo microvascular anastomosis is feasible and effective using a 3D exoscope.
Mouse breeding facilities in Argentina: Current state, challenges, and strengths in relation to animal welfare
Authors: Resasco Agustina , Diaz Silvina Laura
Published: October 2022

The science and technology of laboratory animals has come a long way worldwide, but for reasons related to the development of the countries, this journey started later in some Latin American countries, as is the case of Argentina. Without a specific legal framework to conduct animal experimentation, local strengths to promote animal welfare are based on professionals specifically trained in the care of laboratory animals as well as an extended network of ethics committees that ensures compliance with the ethical principles applied to animal experimentation. Nevertheless, there are no updated reports showing welfare indicators in rodent facilities. Therefore, we conducted a survey on mice breeding facilities enrolled in a national record elaborated by the National Ministry of Science. Questions related to four of the Five Domains Model of Mellor, concerning (1) nutrition, (2) physical environment, (3) health, and (4) behavioral interactions with the environment, other animals, and humans, were included as well as information concerning general aspects of the establishments. Data obtained from 25 mice breeder facilities localized all over the country were summarized, providing for the first time a clear picture of the national situation about the welfare of laboratory mice in these establishments. This data will be essential to design future policy as well as for deciding priorities aiming to improve the welfare of mice bred in Argentinian facilities.
Modulatory effect of dietary probiotic and prebiotic supplementation on growth, immuno-biochemical alterations, DNA damage, and pathological changes in E. coli-infected broiler chicks
Authors: Hashem Mohamed A. , Hassan Azza E. A. , Abou-Elnaga Hala M. M. , Abdo Walied , Dahran Naief , Alghamdi Ali H. , Elmahallawy Ehab Kotb
Published: October 2022

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli is one of the principal causes of heavy economic losses to the poultry industry. Little is known about the underlying mechanisms, particularly the potential role of immunoglobulin A and the DNA damage, involving the beneficial effects of dietary supplementation of probiotics and prebiotics in avian colibacillosis. The current study investigated the potential effects of probiotic and prebiotic dietary supplementation on E. coli-infected broiler chicks. A total of 120 1-day-old unsexed Hubbard chicks were divided into six groups: Group 1 was considered as a negative control; Group 2 was supplemented with 1 g/kg feed of Lactobacillus plantarum; Group 3 was supplemented with amylase enzyme; Group 4 served as a positive control infected orally by E. coli O78; Group 5 was supplemented with L. plantarum from 1-day-old chicken and then infected orally with E. coli O78; and Group 6 was supplemented with amylase enzyme from 1-day old chicken and then infected orally with E. coli O78. For all examined groups, the experimental period lasted for 42 days. The E. coli-infected group revealed a decrease in body performance parameters with a significant increase in the liver enzymes and renal function tests. The same group recorded a significant decrease in serum total proteins, albumins, and globulins, and the alteration of immunological parameters, antioxidant enzymes, oxidative stress parameters, and comet assay revealed highly damaged DNA in the liver and the intestine. By histopathological examination, a series of histopathological changes in the liver, the kidney, and the intestine were observed. The infected chick pretreated with probiotics or prebiotics demonstrated an improvement in body performance parameters besides a significant decrease in the hepatic enzymes and renal function tests. We noticed that, in treated groups, there was a significant increase in serum total proteins in the serum albumin and globulin levels, immunological parameters, and antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, DNA damage and histopathological changes within hepatic, renal, and intestinal tissues were markedly diminished in the treated groups compared with the infected group. We concluded that the adverse effects of E. coli could be modulated through the chemopreventive administration of probiotics and prebiotics.
Accuracy of end-on fluoroscopy in predicting implant position in relation to the vertebral canal in dogs
Authors: Goffart Laura M. , Precht Christina , Fosgate Geoffrey T. , Maiolini Arianna , Hettlich Bianca F.
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of end-on fluoroscopy in predicting implant position in relation to the vertebral canal in the canine thoracolumbar vertebral column.

Study design

In vitroimaging and anatomic study.

Animals

Canine cadaveric thoracolumbar vertebral columns (n= 5).

Methods

Smooth Steinmann pins were inserted bicortically into the thoracolumbar vertebral columns between T10 and L7 using recommended insertion angles. Penetration of the spinal canal was not strictly avoided. After pin placement, end-on fluoroscopy images were obtained of each pin. Pin position was subsequently assessed by four evaluators and determined to either being out of the vertebral canal or in, with the latter being additionally divided into partially or completely penetrating the canal. To assess potential differences in modalities, fluoroscopy images were gray-scale inverted and evaluated again later by the same four individuals. Correct identification of pin position in relationship to the vertebral canal was assessed for both fluoroscopy images. Anatomic preparation of the spines was used for verification of pin position in relation to the spinal canal. Some data from this study were compared with historical data on accuracy using orthogonal radiography and computed tomography (CT).

Results

Overall sensitivity and specificity of F to detect vertebral canal penetration was 98.8 % (95% confidence interval (CI), 96.0–99.6) and 98.0% (95% CI, 77.0–99.9), respectively. For Fi, sensitivity and specificity were 97.0% (95% CI, 91.5–99.0) and 98.5% (95% CI, 81.5–99.9) respectively. F exceeded Fi for the sensitivity of detecting pin penetration into the vertebral canal (p= 0.039) but specificities were not different (p= 0.585). When comparing to historical data, the overall accuracy of end-on fluoroscopy (F) and inverted fluoroscopy (Fi) was statistical better than conventional radiographic assessment (p< 0.001).

Conclusion

End-on fluoroscopy is a highly accurate method for the assessment of pin position in relationship to the thoracolumbar spinal canal in cadaveric dogs.

Clinical significance

End-on fluoroscopy, with or without inversion, is accurate in identifying vertebral canal violation by bicortically placed Steinmann pins. When CT is not available, end-on fluoroscopy might be a valuable imaging modality to determine pin position in the canine vertebral column.
The SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Students in the University of Porto: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Meireles Paula , Costa Joana Pinto , Novais Maria João , Miranda Daniela , Lopes Mariana Mendes , Severo Milton , Barros Henrique
Published: October 2022

Objective: We aimed to quantify SARS-CoV-2 specific antibodies’ seroprevalence among university students in Porto.

Methods: A rapid point of care testing for SARS-CoV-2 specific immunoglobulin (Ig) M and IgG antibodies was performed, and a questionnaire was applied to 6512 voluntary students from September to December 2020. We computed the apparent IgM, IgG, and IgM or IgG prevalence, and the true prevalence and 95% credible intervals (95% CI) using Bayesian inference.

Results: We found an apparent prevalence (IgM or IgG) of 9.7%, the true prevalence being 7.9% (95% CI 4.9–11.1). Prevalence was significantly higher among males (10.9% vs. 9.2%), international students (18.1% vs. 10.4% local vs. 8.8% nationally displaced), and increased with age. Those with a known risk contact, that experienced quarantine, had symptoms, or a previous negative molecular test had a higher seroprevalence. Of the 91 (1.4%) students who reported a molecular diagnosis, 86.8% were reactive for IgM or IgG.

Conclusion: Based on immunological evidence infection was 5.6-fold the reported molecular diagnosis. The higher seroprevalence among male, older, and international students emphasizes the importance of identifying particular groups.
Pollination Parameter Optimization and Field Verification of UAV-Based Pollination of ‘Kuerle Xiangli’
Authors: Wang Yuqing , Bai Ru , Lu Xiaoyan , Quan Shaowen , Liu Yan , Lin Caixia , Wei Jie , Su Yongfeng , Yao Ruiyun
Published: October 2022

In this study, we investigated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) pollination of ‘Kuerle Xiangli’, and screened the pollination operation parameters to determine the precise parameters needed for the implementation of a ‘Kuerle Xiangli’ UAV pollination operation. Different flight height gradients, nozzle atomization particle sizes, spraying volume, and flight routes were tested and their effects on the droplets deposited were compared. UAV operation parameters were screened and field operations were conducted, comparing the fruit set rate, cost, and efficiency of different pollination methods of ‘Kuerle Xiangli’. The results show that the mist droplet effect of 1 m above the top of the tree is higher compared with that of 2 m and 3 m. The mist droplet effect of 2 L/667 m2 is better compared with that of 1.5 L/667 m2 and 1 L/667 m2. The mist droplet effect of 120 μm nozzle atomization particle size is better than that of 110 μm, 135 μm, and 150 μm. The mist droplet effect of flying above the canopy is better than that of flying between the rows of the canopy. The inflorescence and flower fruiting rates of ‘Kuerle Xiangli’ are 63.27% and 28.84%, respectively, and the inflorescence fruiting rate is not significantly different from hand and liquid sprayer pollination. The UAV pollination saves 12.69 USD/667 m2 and 3.32 USD/667 m2 compared with hand and liquid spray pollination, respectively. The efficiency of UAV pollination is greater than that of liquid and hand pollination. The best combination of parameters for pollination using a quadrotor UAV is 1 m from the top of the tree, 2 L/667 m2 spray volume, 120 μm spray nozzle particle size, and the flight path above the canopy. The cost of UAV pollination is 11.83 USD/667 m2 and the pollination efficiency 2.67 hm2/unit·h.
A Valid Quantization of the Particle in a Box Field Theory, and Well Beyond
Authors: Klauder John R.
Published: October 2022

The usual particle in a box is turned into a field theory, and its behavior is examined using canonical and affine quantizations. The result leads to a valid affine quantization of the particle in a box field theory, which points toward further valid quantizations of more realistic field theory models.
Improving the Integration between Palliative Radiotherapy and Supportive Care: A Narrative Review
Authors: Scirocco Erica , Cellini Francesco , Donati Costanza Maria , Capuccini Jenny , Rossi Romina , Buwenge Milly , Montanari Luigi , Maltoni Marco , Morganti Alessio Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

Palliative radiotherapy (PRT) is known to be effective in relieving cancer related symptoms. However, many studies and clinical practice show several barriers hindering its use and worsening the quality of patient support during PRT. Various solutions were proposed to overcome these barriers: training on PRT for supportive and palliative care specialists and training on palliative care for radiation oncologists, and introduction of pathways and organizational models specifically dedicated to PRT. Evidence on innovative organizational models and mutual training experiences is few and sparse. Therefore, the aim of this literature review is to present a quick summary of the information available on improving the PRT quality through training, new pathways, and innovative organizational models. The majority of studies on the integration of PRT with other palliative and supportive therapies present low levels of evidence being mostly retrospective analyses. However, it should be emphasized that all reports uniformly showed advantages coming from the integration of PRT with supportive therapies. To actively participate in the integration of PRT and palliative care, providing comprehensive support to the needs of patients with advanced cancer, radiation oncologists should not only plan PRT but also: (i) assess and manage symptoms and stress, (ii) rapidly refer patients to specialists in management of more complex symptoms, and (iii) participate in multidisciplinary palliative care teams. To this end, improved education in palliative care both in residency schools and during professional life through continuous medical education is clearly needed. In particular, effective training is needed for radiotherapy residents to enable them to provide patients with comprehensive palliative care. Therefore, formal teaching of adequate duration, interactive teaching methods, attendance in palliative care services, and education in advanced palliative care should be planned in post-graduated schools of radiotherapy.
Four-Objective Optimization of an Irreversible Stirling Heat Engine with Linear Phenomenological Heat-Transfer Law
Authors: Xu Haoran , Chen Lingen , Ge Yanlin , Feng Huijun
Published: October 2022

This paper combines the mechanical efficiency theory and finite time thermodynamic theory to perform optimization on an irreversible Stirling heat-engine cycle, in which heat transfer between working fluid and heat reservoir obeys linear phenomenological heat-transfer law. There are mechanical losses, as well as heat leakage, thermal resistance, and regeneration loss. We treated temperature ratio x of working fluid and volume compression ratio λ as optimization variables, and used the NSGA-II algorithm to carry out multi-objective optimization on four optimization objectives, namely, dimensionless shaft power output P¯s, braking thermal efficiency ηs, dimensionless efficient power E¯p and dimensionless power density P¯d. The optimal solutions of four-, three-, two-, and single-objective optimizations are reached by selecting the minimum deviation indexes D with the three decision-making strategies, namely, TOPSIS, LINMAP, and Shannon Entropy. The optimization results show that the D reached by TOPSIS and LINMAP strategies are both 0.1683 and better than the Shannon Entropy strategy for four-objective optimization, while the Ds reached for single-objective optimizations at maximum P¯s, ηs, E¯p, and P¯d conditions are 0.1978, 0.8624, 0.3319, and 0.3032, which are all bigger than 0.1683. This indicates that multi-objective optimization results are better when choosing appropriate decision-making strategies.
Investigation on the Propagation Mechanisms of a Hydraulic Fracture in Glutenite Reservoirs Using DEM
Authors: Tang Jing , Liu Bingjie , Zhang Guodong
Published: October 2022

The geometry heterogeneity induced by embedded gravel can cause severe stress heterogeneity and strength heterogeneity in glutenite reservoirs, and subsequently affect the initiation and propagation of hydraulic fractures. Since the discrete element method (DEM) can accurately describe the inter-particle interactions, the macromechanical behavior of glutenite specimen can be preciously represented by DEM. Therefore, the initiation and propagation mechanisms of hydraulic fractures were investigated using a coupling seepage-DEM approach, the terminal fracture morphologies of hydraulic fractures were determined, and the effects of stress differences, permeability, and gravel strength were studied. The results show that the initiation and propagation of hydraulic fractures are significantly influenced by embedded gravel. In addition, the stress heterogeneity and strength heterogeneity induced by the gravel embedded near the wellbore increase local initiation points, causing a complicated fracture network nearby. Moreover, due to the effect of local stress heterogeneity, gravel strength, and energy concentration near the fracture tip, four interactions of attraction, deflection, penetration, and termination between propagating fractures and encountering gravel were observed.
Scenario Modeling of Energy Policies for Sustainable Development
Authors: Artyukhova Nadiia , Tiutiunyk Inna , Bogacki Sylwester , Wołowiec Tomasz , Dluhopolskyi Oleksandr , Kovalenko Yevhen
Published: October 2022

The article deals with the impacts of economic, ecological, and social development scenarios in ensuring sustainable energy development. EU countries were the statistical bases of the study; the assessment period was from 2000 to 2019. The information bases of the research were the World Bank, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and the European Commission data. Based on the generalized method of moments, the authors investigated the dependence of energy consumption on economic, environmental, and social development factors. The results confirm the positive relationship between renewable energy consumption and GDP per capita, foreign direct investment, and energy depletion. A negative relationship between the consumption of renewable energy, CO2 emissions, and domestic gas emissions was proved. Based on intelligent data analysis methods (methods involving one-dimensional branching CART and agglomeration), countries were clustered depending on the nature of the energy development policy; portraits of these clusters were formalized. The study results can be useful to authorized bodies when determining the most effective mechanisms for forming and implementing sustainable energy development policies.
Induction Motor Supplied with Voltage Containing Symmetrical Subharmonics and Interharmonics
Authors: Gnaciński Piotr , Hallmann Damian , Muc Adam , Klimczak Piotr , Pepliński Marcin
Published: October 2022

Sinusoidal voltage fluctuations can be considered a specific result of the occurrence of voltage subharmonics and interharmonics, which are components of low frequency or not being an integer multiple of the frequency of the fundamental voltage harmonic. These components—symmetrical subharmonics and interharmonics—are of the same magnitude, while their frequencies are symmetrical with respect to the fundamental frequency. Depending on their phase angles, various kinds of voltage fluctuations can be distinguished: amplitude modulation, phase modulation and intermediate modulation. In this study, the effect of phase angles on noxious phenomena in induction motors was analyzed. Additionally, torque pulsations and vibrations of an induction motor under sinusoidal voltage fluctuation and a single voltage subharmonic or interharmonic were compared. The investigations were performed with the finite element method and an experimental method. Among other findings, it was found that for some phase angles torque pulsations could be about ten times higher than for other angles, roughly corresponding to the amplitude modulation.
Modeling and Experimental Verification of the Required Power for Electrically Heated Clothing
Authors: Tylman Wojciech , Kotas Rafał , Kamiński Marek , Dąbrowska Anna , Młynarczyk Magdalena
Published: October 2022

The article presents simple modeling and experimental verification of the power required for thermal comfort in electrically heated clothing. The clothing consists of a jumpsuit with embedded heating insets, controlled by a dedicated microprocessor system. The user is able to set heating power using a smartphone app. The experiments, conducted in a mobile freezing chamber, aimed at verification of the model of theoretical power (according to ISO 11079) required to maintain thermal comfort in ambient temperatures below 0 °C. Three participants were asked to adjust heating power to reach thermal comfort. The experiment revealed the required power to be only 40–60% of the theoretical one, meaning that the design of the electrically heating clothing relying solely on the theoretical models and standards would lead to oversizing of the heating system power. Further study indicated that the mean skin temperature by itself is not sufficient as an input to the algorithm for automatic maintaining of thermal comfort, even in stationary conditions.
Analysis of a Costly Fiberglass-Polyester Air Filter Fire
Authors: Log Torgrim , Gunnarshaug Amalie
Published: October 2022

In September 2020, a fire at a liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in the Arctic areas of Norway received national attention. In an unengaged air intake, the heat exchanger designed to prevent ice damage during production mode, was supplied hot oil at 260 °C. In sunny weather, calm conditions, and 14 °C ambient temperature, overheating of the unengaged air intake filters (85% glass fiber and 15% polyester) was identified as a possible cause of ignition. Laboratory heating tests showed that the filter materials could, due to the rigid glass fibers carrying the polymers, glow like smoldering materials. Thus, self-heating as observed for cellulose-based materials was a possible ignition mechanism. Small-scale testing (10 cm × 10 cm and 8 cm stacked height) revealed that used filters with collected biomass, i.e., mainly pterygota, tended to self-heat at 20 °C lower temperatures than virgin filters. Used filter cassettes (60 cm by 60 cm and 50 cm bag depth) caused significant self-heating at 150 °C. At 160 °C, the self-heating took several hours before increased smoke production and sudden transition to flaming combustion. Since the engaged heat exchanger on a calm sunny day of ambient temperature 14 °C would result in temperatures in excess of 160 °C in an unengaged air intake, self-heating and transition to flaming combustion was identified as the most likely cause of the fire. Flames from the burning polymer filters resulted in heat exchanger collapse and subsequent hot oil release, significantly increasing the intensity and duration of the fire. Due to firewater damages, the plant was out of operation for more than 1.5 years. Better sharing of lessons learned may help prevent similar incidents in the future.
Reflections on the Evidentiary Basis of Indoor Air Quality Standards
Authors: Berger Christiane , Mahdavi Ardeshir , Azar Elie , Bandurski Karol , Bourikas Leonidas , Harputlugil Timuçin , Hellwig Runa , Rupp Ricardo , Schweiker Marcel
Published: October 2022

Buildings are expected to provide healthy and comfortable indoor environmental conditions for their users. Such conditions have diverse dimensions, including thermal, visual, air quality, auditory, and olfactory aspects. Indoor environmental quality standards, guidelines, and codes typically inform professionals in the building design and operation phase in view of procedural, contractual, and legal boundary conditions. Given this critical role of standards, it seems significant to examine the applicability and scientific validity on a regular basis. In this context, the present paper focuses on the standard-based definition of indoor air quality (IAQ) indicators and their respective values. Hence, the main aim of this effort is to study several common national and international IAQ standards in view of the scope to which they include direct or indirect evidence for the validity and applicability of their mandates and requirements. To this end, selected IAQ standards were assessed via a structured schema that includes not only basic information, quality indicators, and suggested and recommended value ranges, but also any reference to scientific studies. The findings of this effort identify certain issues with the transparency of the chain of evidence from the results of technical literature and standard-based IAQ recommendations. Moreover, recommendations are made for the development of future transparent and evidence-based IAQ standards and guidelines.
Review of Energy and Climate Plans of Baltic States: The Contribution of Renewables for Energy Production in Households
Authors: Streimikiene Dalia , Kyriakopoulos Grigorios L. , Stankuniene Gintare
Published: October 2022

The European Commission introduced a package of measures to accelerate the shift to low-carbon energy transition in Europe. In 2014, EU member states agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The binding greenhouse gas emission targets for Member States from 2021 to 2030 for the transport, buildings, agriculture, waste, and land-use and forestry sectors were established. EU Member States should decide on their own how to meet the agreed upon 2030 target and implement climate-change-mitigation measures. All EU MSs have committed to prepare national energy and climate plans based on regulation on the governance of the energy union and climate action (EU)2018/1999, agreed as part of the Clean Energy for All Europeans package approved in 2019. The national plans outline how the EU Member States intend to implement the GHG reduction target by increasing their in energy efficiency, use of renewables, greenhouse-gas-emission reductions, interconnections, and research and innovation. This paper analyzes the energy and climate plans of the Baltic States and systematizes the main climate-change-mitigation policies in the energy sector targeting the household sector. The background of energy and climate planning is provided from a theoretical point of view, encompassing regional, local, and national energy and climate plans. The diffusion levels of renewables in the Baltic States were determined and the energy-climatic-friendly policies followed, by them, they were identified.
Performance Analysis and Optimization of SHS Based on Solar Resources Distribution in Typical Cities in Cold Regions of China
Authors: Zhao Juan , Bai Yifei , Zhou Botao , Gao Junmei , Qiang Tianwei , Yan Suqian , Liang Pei
Published: October 2022

The variability and inhomogeneity of solar energy limits the development of solar heating systems (SHS) in many fields. In order to improve the utilization efficiency of SHS, this paper takes three typical cities (Xi’an, Dunhuang, Lhasa) as the research object, studies the operation state of SHS in student dormitory buildings, and puts forward a corresponding optimization strategy. The research shows that the reduction of water supply temperature will improve the operation efficiency and energy saving effect of a spontaneous combustion heat pump and that there is an optimal volume of heat storage water tank (HSWT), which can make the energy saving effect of SHS run better. The optimization of the SHS shows the water supply temperature is 35 °C, and the optimal volume of HSWT is 15 m3 in the “Resource-general area (Ⅲ)” represented by Xi’an, 25 m3 in the “Resource-rich area (Ⅱ)” represented by Dunhuang, and 40 m3 in the “Resource-richer area (Ⅰ)” represented by Lhasa. With the increase in the abundance of solar energy resources in the region, the optimal volume of HSWT also increases. Meanwhile, the solar energy contribution rate of the three regions in descending order is 61.3% (Lhasa), 32.8% (Dunhuang), and 25.9% (Xi’an). After optimization, the contribution of SHS increased by about 5%. The research results will help improve the efficiency of SHS in cold areas of China and make the system more efficient and energy efficient during operation.
Synthesis of Biodiesel via Interesterification Reaction of Calophyllum inophyllum Seed Oil and Ethyl Acetate over Lipase Catalyst: Experimental and Surface Response Methodology Analysis
Authors: Kusumaningtyas Ratna Dewi , Normaliza Normaliza , Anisa Elva Dianis Novia , Prasetiawan Haniif , Hartanto Dhoni , Veny Harumi , Hamzah Fazlena , Rodhi Miradatul Najwa Muhd
Published: October 2022

Biodiesel is increasingly being considered as an alternative to the fossil fuel as it is renewable, nontoxic, biodegradable, and feasible for mass production. Biodiesel can be produced from various types of vegetable oils. Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil (CSO) is among the prospective nonedible vegetable oils considered as a raw material for biodiesel synthesis. The most common process of the biodiesel manufacturing is the transesterification of vegetable oils which results in glycerol as a by-product. Thus, product purification is necessary. In this work, an alternative route to biodiesel synthesis through interesterification reaction of vegetable oil and ethyl acetate was conducted. By replacing alcohol with ethyl acetate, triacetin was produced as a side product rather than glycerol. Triacetin can be used as a fuel additive to increase the octane number of the fuel. Therefore, triacetin separation from biodiesel products is needless. The interesterification reaction is catalyzed by an alkaline catalyst or by a lipase enzyme. In this study, biodiesel synthesis was carried out using a lipase enzyme since it is a green and sustainable catalyst. The interesterification reaction of CSO with ethyl acetate in the presence of a lipase catalyst was conducted using the molar ratio of CSO and ethyl acetate of 1:3. The reaction time, lipase catalyst concentration, and reaction temperature were varied at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 h, 10%,15%, 20%, and 30 °C, 40 °C, 50 °C, 60 °C, respectively. The experimental results were also analyzed using response surface methodology (RSM) with the Box–Behnken design (BBD) model on Design Expert software. Data processing using RSM revealed that the highest conversion within the studied parameter range was 41.46%, obtained at a temperature reaction of 44.43 °C, a reaction time of 5 h, and a lipase catalyst concentration of 20%.
Experts versus the Public: Perceptions of Siting Wind Turbines and Performance Concerns
Authors: Hamza Neveen , Borg Ruben Paul , Camilleri Liberato , Baniotopoulos Charalampos
Published: October 2022

Experiences of wind turbines (WT) shape public perception and acceptance of the technology, influencing government policy, deployment, and land-use policies of wind turbines. This paper attempts to find changes in public perceptions over the last three decades and differences between experts and the public over different land-use options. A semi-structured questionnaire that integrates a visual survey of 10 images of WT technology in different urban, landscape and seascape settings was presented to both groups. The perceptions of siting, proximity, landscape type, and maturity of urban wind turbines’ technology in renewable energy generation were contrasted. The results revealed that both the public and experts alike significantly preferred images of WT inclusion in seascape and landscape settings and responded negatively to images of WT as an addition to buildings in urban contexts. Images of wind turbines around transport settings were ranked in the second set of acceptances, after landscape settings, indicating that closer proximity to WT is acceptable, but for a short duration. The analysis also highlighted a preference by the public for aesthetically engaging WT, even if they resulted in lower energy yields, but were less accepted by the experts who based their judgment on technical performance.
Reversible Platelet Integrin αIIbβ3 Activation and Thrombus Instability
Authors: Zou Jinmi , Swieringa Frauke , de Laat Bas , de Groot Philip G. , Roest Mark , Heemskerk Johan W. M.
Published: October 2022

Integrin αIIbβ3 activation is essential for platelet aggregation and, accordingly, for hemostasis and arterial thrombosis. The αIIbβ3 integrin is highly expressed on platelets and requires an activation step for binding to fibrinogen, fibrin or von Willebrand factor (VWF). A current model assumes that the process of integrin activation relies on actomyosin force-dependent molecular changes from a bent-closed and extended-closed to an extended-open conformation. In this paper we review the pathways that point to a functional reversibility of platelet αIIbβ3 activation and transient aggregation. Furthermore, we refer to mouse models indicating that genetic defects that lead to reversible platelet aggregation can also cause instable thrombus formation. We discuss the platelet agonists and signaling pathways that lead to a transient binding of ligands to integrin αIIbβ3. Our analysis points to the (autocrine) ADP P2Y1 and P2Y12 receptor signaling via phosphoinositide 3-kinases and Akt as principal pathways linked to reversible integrin activation. Downstream signaling events by protein kinase C, CalDAG-GEFI and Rap1b have not been linked to transient integrin activation. Insight into the functional reversibility of integrin activation pathways will help to better understand the effects of antiplatelet agents.
Global Proteomic Profile of Aluminum-Induced Hippocampal Impairments in Rats: Are Low Doses of Aluminum Really Safe?
Authors: Bittencourt Leonardo Oliveira , Damasceno-Silva Rakhel Dayanne , Aragão Walessa Alana Bragança , Eiró-Quirino Luciana , Oliveira Ana Carolina Alves , Fernandes Rafael Monteiro , Freire Marco Aurelio M. , Cartágenes Sabrina Carvalho , Dionizio Aline , Buzalaf Marília Afonso Rabelo , Cassoli Juliana Silva , Cirovic Ana , Cirovic Aleksandar , Maia Cristiane do Socorro Ferraz , Lima Rafael Rodrigues
Published: October 2022

Hippocampus is the brain area where aluminum (Al) accumulates in abundance and is widely associated with learning and memory. In the present study, we evaluate behavioral, tissue, and proteomic changes in the hippocampus of Wistar rats caused by exposure to doses that mimic human consumption of aluminum chloride (AlCl3) in urban areas. For this, male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: Control (distilled water) and AlCl3 (8.3 mg/kg/day), both groups were exposed orally for 60 days. After the Al exposure protocol, cognitive functions were assessed by the Water maze test, followed by a collection for analysis of the global proteomic profile of the hippocampus by mass spectrometry. Aside from proteomic analysis, we performed a histological analysis of the hippocampus, to the determination of cell body density by cresyl violet staining in Cornu Ammonis fields (CA) 1 and 3, and hilus regions. Our results indicated that exposure to low doses of aluminum chloride triggered a decreased cognitive performance in learning and memory, being associated with the deregulation of proteins expression, mainly those related to the regulation of the cytoskeleton, cellular metabolism, mitochondrial activity, redox regulation, nervous system regulation, and synaptic signaling, reduced cell body density in CA1, CA3, and hilus.
The GPI-Anchored Protein Thy-1/CD90 Promotes Wound Healing upon Injury to the Skin by Enhancing Skin Perfusion
Authors: Pérez Leonardo A. , León José , López Juan , Rojas Daniela , Reyes Montserrat , Contreras Pamela , Quest Andrew F. G. , Escudero Carlos , Leyton Lisette
Published: October 2022

Wound healing is a highly regulated multi-step process that involves a plethora of signals. Blood perfusion is crucial in wound healing and abnormalities in the formation of new blood vessels define the outcome of the wound healing process. Thy-1 has been implicated in angiogenesis and silencing of the Thy-1 gene retards the wound healing process. However, the role of Thy-1 in blood perfusion during wound closure remains unclear. We proposed that Thy-1 regulates vascular perfusion, affecting the healing rate in mouse skin. We analyzed the time of recovery, blood perfusion using Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging, and tissue morphology from images acquired with a Nanozoomer tissue scanner. The latter was assessed in a tissue sample taken with a biopsy punch on several days during the wound healing process. Results obtained with the Thy-1 knockout (Thy-1−/−) mice were compared with control mice. Thy-1−/− mice showed at day seven, a delayed re-epithelialization, increased micro- to macro-circulation ratio, and lower blood perfusion in the wound area. In addition, skin morphology displayed a flatter epidermis, fewer ridges, and almost no stratum granulosum or corneum, while the dermis was thicker, showing more fibroblasts and fewer lymphocytes. Our results suggest a critical role for Thy-1 in wound healing, particularly in vascular dynamics.
Potential Antifungal Targets for Aspergillus sp. from the Calcineurin and Heat Shock Protein Pathways
Authors: Ancuceanu Robert , Hovaneț Marilena Viorica , Cojocaru-Toma Maria , Anghel Adriana-Iuliana , Dinu Mihaela
Published: October 2022

Aspergillus species, especially A. fumigatus, and to a lesser extent others (A. flavus, A. niger, A. terreus), although rarely pathogenic to healthy humans, can be very aggressive to immunocompromised patients (they are opportunistic pathogens). Although survival rates for such infections have improved in recent decades following the introduction of azole derivatives, they remain a clinical challenge. The fact that current antifungals act as fungistatic rather than fungicide, that they have limited safety, and that resistance is becoming increasingly common make the need for new, more effective, and safer therapies to become more acute. Over the last decades, knowledge about the molecular biology of A. fumigatus and other Aspergillus species, and particularly of calcineurin, Hsp90, and their signaling pathway proteins, has progressed remarkably. Although calcineurin has attracted much interest, its adverse effects, particularly its immunosuppressive effects, make it less attractive than it might at first appear. The situation is not very different for Hsp90. Other proteins from their signaling pathways, such as protein kinases phosphorylating the four SPRR serine residues, CrzA, rcnA, pmcA-pmcC (particularly pmcC), rfeF, BAR adapter protein(s), the phkB histidine kinase, sskB MAP kinase kinase, zfpA, htfA, ctfA, SwoH (nucleoside diphosphate kinase), CchA, MidA, FKBP12, the K27 lysine position from Hsp90, PkcA, MpkA, RlmA, brlA, abaA, wetA, other heat shock proteins (Hsp70, Hsp40, Hsp12) currently appear promising and deserve further investigation as potential targets for antifungal drug development.
Legumain Activity Is Controlled by Extended Active Site Residues and Substrate Conformation
Authors: Elamin Tasneem , Brandstetter Hans , Dall Elfriede
Published: October 2022

Legumain is a lysosomal cysteine protease with strict specificity for cleaving after asparagine residues. By sequence comparison, legumain belongs to MEROPS clan CD of the cysteine proteases, which indicates its structural and mechanistic relation to caspases. Contrasting caspases, legumain harbors a pH-dependent ligase activity in addition to the protease activity. Although we already have a significant body of knowledge on the catalytic activities of legumain, many mechanistic details are still elusive. In this study, we provide evidence that extended active site residues and substrate conformation are steering legumain activities. Biochemical experiments and bioinformatics analysis showed that the catalytic Cys189 and His148 residues are regulated by sterically close Glu190, Ser215 and Asn42 residues. While Glu190 serves as an activity brake, Ser215 and Asn42 have a favorable effect on legumain protease activity. Mutagenesis studies using caspase-9 as model enzyme additionally showed that a similar Glu190 activity brake is also implemented in the caspases. Furthermore, we show that the substrate’s conformational flexibility determines whether it will be hydrolyzed or ligated by legumain. The functional understanding of the extended active site residues and of substrate prerequisites will allow us to engineer proteases with increased enzymatic activity and better ligase substrates, with relevance for biotechnological applications.
The Effects of Exercise Training on Mitochondrial Function in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lim Ai Yin , Chen Yi-Ching , Hsu Chih-Chin , Fu Tieh-Cheng , Wang Jong-Shyan
Published: October 2022

Mitochondria dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Exercise training is potentially an effective non-pharmacological strategy to restore mitochondrial health in CVD. However, how exercise modifies mitochondrial functionality is inconclusive. We conducted a systematic review using the PubMed; Scopus and Web of Science databases to investigate the effect of exercise training on mitochondrial function in CVD patients. Search terms included “mitochondria”, “exercise”, “aerobic capacity”, and “cardiovascular disease” in varied combination. The search yielded 821 records for abstract screening, of which 20 articles met the inclusion criteria. We summarized the effect of exercise training on mitochondrial morphology, biogenesis, dynamics, oxidative capacity, antioxidant capacity, and quality. Amongst these parameters, only oxidative capacity was suitable for a meta-analysis, which demonstrated a significant effect size of exercise in improving mitochondrial oxidative capacity in CVD patients (SMD = 4.78; CI = 2.99 to 6.57; p < 0.01), but with high heterogeneity among the studies (I2 = 75%, p = 0.003). Notably, aerobic exercise enhanced succinate-involved oxidative phosphorylation. The majority of the results suggested that exercise improves morphology and biogenesis, whereas findings on dynamic, antioxidant capacity, and quality, were inadequate or inconclusive. A further randomized controlled trial is clearly required to explain how exercise modifies the pathway of mitochondrial quantity and quality in CVD patients.
Meridianins Inhibit GSK3β In Vivo and Improve Behavioral Alterations Induced by Chronic Stress
Authors: Sancho-Balsells Anna , García-García Esther , Flotta Francesca , Chen Wanqi , Alberch Jordi , Rodríguez Manuel J. , Avila Conxita , Giralt Albert
Published: October 2022

Major depression disorder (MDD) is a severe mental alteration with a multifactorial origin, and chronic stress is one of the most relevant environmental risk factors associated with MDD. Although there exist some therapeutical options, 30% of patients are still resistant to any type of treatment. GSK3β inhibitors are considered very promising therapeutic tools to counteract stress-related affectations. However, they are often associated with excessive off-target effects and undesired secondary alterations. Meridianins are alkaloids with an indole framework linked to an aminopyrimidine ring from Antarctic marine ascidians. Meridianins could overcome several of the aforementioned limitations since we previously demonstrated that they can inhibit GSK3β activity without the associated neurotoxic or off-target effects in rodents. Here, we show that meridianins delivered into the lateral ventricle inhibited GSK3β in several brain regions involved with stress-related symptoms. We also observed changes in major signaling pathways in the prefrontal cortex (Akt and PKA) and hippocampus (PKC and GluR1). Moreover, meridianins increased synaptic activity, specifically in the CA1 but not in the CA3 or other hippocampal subfields. Finally, we chronically treated the mice subjected to an unpredictable mild chronic stress (CUMS) paradigm with meridianins. Our results showed improvements produced by meridianins in behavioral alterations provoked by CUMS. In conclusion, meridianins could be of therapeutic interest to patients with stress-related disorders such as MDD.
An Explanation and Defense of the Free-Thinking Argument
Authors: Stratton Timothy A. , Moreland J. P.
Published: October 2022

This paper is a defense of the big ideas behind the free-thinking argument. This argument aims to demonstrate that determinism is incompatible with epistemic responsibility in a desert sense (being praised or blamed for any thought, idea, judgment, or belief). This lack of epistemic responsibility is problematic for the naturalist. It seems to be an even worse problem, however, for the exhaustive divine determinist because not only would humanity not stand in a position to be blamed for any of our thoughts and beliefs, but it also surfaces a “problem of epistemic evil”, which can be raised against the knowledge of God, the rationality of humans, and the trustworthiness of Scripture.
CSV: Content Service Offloading System with Vehicular Caching
Authors: Kyung Yeunwoong , Song Taewon
Published: October 2022

Vehicular caching (VC) has been considered as a promising technology to provide low end-to-end service latency and reduce the load of networks. However, it is difficult for VC to provide service continuity because of its opportunistic availability according to mobility. To mitigate this problem, we introduce a CSV: Content service offloading System with VC which can opportunistically distribute the load of the content server and support the service continuity. In CSV, the content service can be migrated between fog node (FN) and VC while maintaining the ongoing service without service disruption, which can opportunistically distribute the load of the content server and support the service continuity during migration. To assess the performance of CSV, we develop an analytical model for VC offloading efficiency. Extensive simulation results demonstrate that CSV can reduce the load of the content server compared to the conventional system.