bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Meaning of “Clean” in Anti-doping Education and Decision Making: Moving Toward Integrity and Conceptual Clarity
Authors: Petróczi Andrea , Boardley Ian D.
Published: May 2022

With the World Anti-Doping Agency's International Standard for Education (ISE) coming into effect in 2021, the clean-sport movement is at a pivotal stage. Through this conceptual paper we juxtapose the sector-wide anti-doping education as set out in the ISE on the decision-making process at the individual level. We discuss three critical issues for the clean-sport movement. First, we make the case for doping being a “wicked” problem and outline the possible implications of this for prevention and detection. Second, we consider why we need to address regulative, normative, and cognitive components of clean sport if we are to maximize its legitimacy. Third, we critically expose the fluidity with which clean sport is defined, and the implications of defining clean sport in substance- vs. rule-based terms, which, respectively, lead to theorizing clean sport as “drug-free” vs. “cheating-free” sport. Finally, we consider the role and key components of anti-doping education and how the relevance of certain components may be dependent on the way clean sport is defined. Conceptualizing doping as a sport integrity issue, we move away from the archaic and delimiting view of clean sport as drug-free sport and conclude with recommendations on how to reconcile values-based education, awareness raising, information provision and anti-doping education within the broader scope of integrity, to support informed decision making and personal agency. To connect anti-doping education to individual-level decision making, we recommend a staggered approach in which specific education content is linked to different influences in the decision-making process, to different stages of athlete development, and to different educational goals. Emphasizing and encouraging sensemaking in anti-doping decision making offers a pragmatic approach for anti-doping education. Conceptual clarity and precise mapping of the educational goal, content, and delivery is vital for valid and meaningful evaluation of the effectiveness of anti-doping education.
Experience in the Management of Vaginal Cuff Dehiscence and Evisceration: A Retrospective 37-Year Single-Center Study
Authors: Ma Xiao , Cao Dong-Yan , Dai Yu-Xin
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Vaginal cuff dehiscence (and evisceration) (VCD(E)) is an extremely rare and late-onset complication of total hysterectomy (TH). Limited evidence is available to guide clinicians in managing VCD(E). This study aimed to summarize the clinical characteristics of patients with VCD(E) treated in our center and share our experience in managing VCD(E).

Patients and methods

From 1983 to 2020, a total of 14 cases of VCD(E), including 10 cases in our hospital and 4 cases in other hospitals, were included. Medical records were reviewed to summarize the clinical features and management of VCD(E).

Results

The incidence of VCD(E) in our hospital was 10/46,993 (0.02%), and all 10 patients underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy. The median TH-to-VCD(E) interval was 3.13 months (8 days–27.43 months), and 11/14 (78.57%) patients experienced VCD(E) after coitus. The 3 major symptoms included abdominal pain in 11 patients, irregular vaginal bleeding in 8, and sensation of bulging or prolapsed organs in 4. Except for 2, most patients presented to our hospital within 72 h since the onset of the discomfort. All 14 cases were diagnosed through speculum examination: 3 had simple VCD, and 11 had VCDE. The protruding bowels of 4 patients were immediately manually repositioned in the emergency department without anesthesia. Regarding the surgical approach, 11 patients underwent simple transvaginal, 2 patients underwent laparoscopic-vaginal combined (transvaginal cuff closures), and 1 patient underwent laparoscopic. All but 1 patient did not undergo resection of the eviscerated organs. The median follow-up period was 39.33 (7.9–159.33) months. No patients showed any evidence of recurrence to date.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a risk factor for VCD(E), and early initiation of sexual intercourse is the most common trigger of VCD(E). Clinicians should educate patients to postpone sexual intercourse for at least 3–6 months after TH. Immediate medical attention and patient-specific surgical management are crucial to avoid serious complications.
Comparison Between Effects of Four Crystalloid Solutions on Acid-Base and Electrolyte Abnormalities in Stranded Juvenile Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta caretta)
Authors: Inurria Alicia , Santana Ángelo , Casal Ana B. , Calabuig Pascual , Suárez-Pérez Alejandro , Orós Jorge
Published: May 2022

Dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, and acid-base alterations are common findings in stranded sea turtles. Fluid therapy is essential for reestablishment of homeostasis. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and effects on acid-base and electrolyte status of four different crystalloids (0.9% NaCl solution, 0.9% NaCl and lactated Ringer's solutions 1:1 ratio, Plasmalyte, and Jarchow's solution) in 63 stranded juvenile loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). Crystalloid fluids were administered intracoelomically on the day of admission for a duration of three consecutive days at a rate of 20 mL/kg/day through the inguinal fossa. Blood samples were collected at three timepoints: on admission, 24 h after discontinuing fluid therapy and prior to release. Samples were analyzed using a portable electronic blood analyzer for pH, pCO2, pO2, bicarbonate, lactate, sodium, potassium, chloride, glucose, and BUN concentration. Thirty-four loggerhead turtles (53.9%) had some type of acid-base alteration at the time of admission. The combination of 0.9% NaCl and lactated Ringer's solutions resulted in the highest percentage of improved/resolved acid-base and electrolyte abnormalities (33.4 % more animals with normal acid-base status compared to the admission time) compared to Jarchow's solution, which was the least effective (15.8% decrease in the number of animals with normal acid-base status compared to the admission time). This study constitutes the second controlled study of fluid therapy in sea turtles, and corroborates the recommendation made previously on the use of 0.9% NaCl + lactated Ringer solution to resolve mild to moderate acid-base alterations in juvenile loggerhead turtles. In addition, convalescent acid-base, electrolyte and plasma biochemical reference intervals are also provided as a standard profile for sea turtle rehabilitation centers.
Disruptive Technologies in Smart Farming: An Expanded View with Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Yadav Sargam , Kaushik Abhishek , Sharma Mahak , Sharma Shubham
Published: May 2022

Smart Farming (SF) is an emerging technology in the current agricultural landscape. The aim of Smart Farming is to provide tools for various agricultural and farming operations to improve yield by reducing cost, waste, and required manpower. SF is a data-driven approach that can mitigate losses that occur due to extreme weather conditions and calamities. The influx of data from various sensors, and the introduction of information communication technologies (ICTs) in the field of farming has accelerated the implementation of disruptive technologies (DTs) such as machine learning and big data. Application of these predictive and innovative tools in agriculture is crucial for handling unprecedented conditions such as climate change and the increasing global population. In this study, we review the recent advancements in the field of Smart Farming, which include novel use cases and projects around the globe. An overview of the challenges associated with the adoption of such technologies in their respective regions is also provided. A brief analysis of the general sentiment towards Smart Farming technologies is also performed by manually annotating YouTube comments and making use of the pattern library. Preliminary findings of our study indicate that, though there are several barriers to the implementation of SF tools, further research and innovation can alleviate such risks and ensure sustainability of the food supply. The exploratory sentiment analysis also suggests that most digital users are not well-informed about such technologies.
Biological Activities of Zingiber officinale Roscoe Essential Oil against Fusarium spp.: A Minireview of a Promising Tool for Biocontrol
Authors: Radice Matteo , Maddela Naga Raju , Scalvenzi Laura
Published: May 2022

Zingiber officinale Roscoe is an herbal plant native to Asia that can be found in all tropical countries. It is used in folk medicine, food, and cosmetics. A chemical characterization and some agronomic experiments have been carried out on Z. officinale essential oil, showing promising findings for the biological control of fungal pathogens belonging to the genus Fusarium. The aim of this review is to collect and update the literature covering its phytochemistry and biological activities as a Fusarium spp. plant-based biocide. The present research was conducted using the following bibliographic databases: Scifinder, Pubmed, and Science Direct. Thirteen papers were selected based on the adopted criteria. Data were independently extracted by the three authors of this work, and the final article selections were completed in a manner that avoided the duplication of data. The main chemical compounds were α-zingiberene, geranial, and aryl-curcumene, but a remarkable difference was found concerning the chemical compositions. Z. officinale essential oil was shown to possess promising biological functions against Fusarium spp. These findings offer new research approaches and potential applications as a biocontrol ingredient for Z. officinale essential oil.
Analytics Capability and Firm Performance in Supply Chain Organizations: The Role of Employees’ Analytics Skills
Authors: Farivar Samira , Golmohammadi Amirmohsen , Ramirez Alejandro
Published: May 2022

Developing analytics capability has become one of the main priorities in organizations today. Despite the increasing use of analytics, the necessary conditions to obtain the expected benefits from such investment still need to be examined. Relying on information processing theory (OIPT), this study sheds some light on the requirements for properly utilizing analytics to receive the potential benefits in supply chain firms. Specifically, we study the role of supply chain process integration in developing analytics capability, and we further examine the role of analytics capability and employees’ analytics skills in improving firm performance. Survey data collected from 240 supply chain top- and middle-level managers show that supply chain process integration enhances firms’ analytics capability. However, analytics capability alone is not sufficient in improving firm performance; it must be complemented with employees’ analytics skills. These findings extend the current literature on supply chain analytics and provide guidance and insights to supply chain managers for their analytics capability investments.
Canine Neonatal Assessment by Vitality Score, Amniotic Fluid, Urine, and Umbilical Cord Blood Analysis of Glucose, Lactate, and Cortisol: Possible Influence of Parturition Type?
Authors: Plavec Tanja , Knific Tanja , Slapšak Aleksandra , Raspor Sara , Lukanc Barbara , Pipan Maja Zakošek
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of parturition type on vitality in newborn puppies, their weight gains, and survival in the first week postpartum. One hundred and twenty-three puppies were divided in three groups: vaginal parturition (VP), emergency (EM-CS), and elective cesarean section (EL-CS). Apgar scores were assessed 5, 15, and 60 min postpartum. Lactate and glucose concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and umbilical blood; cortisol concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid and puppy urine. Puppies’ weight gain was tracked daily for 7 days postpartum. Apgar score at 5 and 15 min was significantly better in the VP group. EL-CS puppies had significantly lower umbilical blood and amniotic fluid lactate concentrations compared to the VP group, which also had higher umbilical blood lactate concentration than EM-CS puppies. The cortisol concentration in the amniotic fluid and in urine differed significantly between the groups, with the highest concentration in the EM-CS, followed by the VP group. Glucose concentration in amniotic fluid was higher in the VP group than EM-CS group. The type of parturition had no impact on puppies’ weight gain or their survival at birth; however, supportive treatment was provided for non-vital puppies. Non-invasive analysis of puppies’ fluids could help in the assessment of the neonatal vitality.
The Early Prediction of Common Disorders in Dairy Cows Monitored by Automatic Systems with Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Zhou Xiaojing , Xu Chuang , Wang Hao , Xu Wei , Zhao Zixuan , Chen Mengxing , Jia Bin , Huang Baoyin
Published: May 2022

We use multidimensional data from automated monitoring systems and milking systems to predict disorders of dairy cows by employing eight machine learning algorithms. The data included the season, days in milking, parity, age at the time of disorders, milk yield (kg/day), activity (unitless), six variables related to rumination time, and two variables related to the electrical conductivity of milk. We analyze 131 sick cows and 149 healthy cows with identical lactation days and parity; all data are collected on the same day, which corresponds to the diagnosis day for disordered cows. For disordered cows, each variable, except the ratio of rumination time from daytime to nighttime, displays a decreasing/increasing trend from d-7 or d-3 to d0 and/or d-1, with the d0, d-1, or d-2 values reaching the minimum or maximum. The test data sensitivity for three algorithms exceeded 80%, and the accuracies of the eight algorithms ranged from 65.08% to 84.21%. The area under the curve (AUC) of the three algorithms was >80%. Overall, Rpart best predicts the disorders with an accuracy, precision, and AUC of 81.58%, 92.86%, and 0.908, respectively. The machine learning algorithms may be an appropriate and powerful decision support and monitoring tool to detect herds with common health disorders.
Helicobacter Species and Their Association with Gastric Pathology in a Cohort of Dogs with Chronic Gastrointestinal Signs
Authors: Husnik Roman , Klimes Jiri , Kovarikova Simona , Kolorz Michal
Published: May 2022

Prevalence of individual Helicobacter species, data evaluating their association with gastric pathology and comparison of accuracy of diagnostic techniques are limited. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of gastric Helicobacter species, their association with gastric pathology, and to compare diagnostic techniques. Gastric biopsies from 84 privately-owned dogs with chronic gastrointestinal signs were obtained endoscopically. Helicobacters were detected using PCR, cytology, urease test, and histopathology. PCR detected helicobacters in 71.4% of dogs. Helicobacter heilmannii sensu stricto (s.s.) was the predominant species. Mixed infection was detected in 40% of PCR positive dogs. Gastritis was diagnosed in 38.5% of Helicobacter positive and 47.4% of Helicobacter negative dogs. Mono-infection was associated with 2.4 times increased odds of having more severe inflammation compared to mixed infection. Erosions and ulcers were common endoscopic lesions. Cytology had sensitivity/specificity of 88.3/91.7%. Association between infection and lymphoid follicular hyperplasia was demonstrated.
A New Method to Characterize Conformation-Specific Antibody by a Combination of Agarose Native Gel Electrophoresis and Contact Blotting
Authors: Akuta Teruo , Maruyama Toshiaki , Sakuma Chiaki , Nakagawa Masataka , Tomioka Yui , Entzminger Kevin , Fleming Jonathan K. , Sato Ryo , Shibata Takashi , Kurosawa Yasunori , Okumura C. J. , Arakawa Tsutomu
Published: May 2022

In this study, we review the agarose native gel electrophoresis that separates proteins and macromolecular complexes in their native state and transfer of the separated proteins from the agarose gel to membranes by contact blotting which retains the native state of these structures. Green fluorescent protein showed functional state both on agarose gel and blotted membrane. Based on the combined procedures, we discovered conformation-specific monoclonal antibodies against PLXDC2 and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.
Suitability Evaluation of the Lining Form Based on Combination Weighting–Set Pair Analysis
Authors: Xing Chen , Yao Leihua , Wang Yingdong , Hu Zijuan
Published: May 2022

Aiming at the many uncertain factors in the suitability evaluation of reinforced concrete lining of high-pressure pipelines, the set pair analysis (SPA) theory is used to establish the suitability evaluation model. By summarizing the key influencing factors of typical lining design criteria, five suitability evaluation indices are determined from three criteria, i.e., the minimum overburden criterion, the minimum principal stress criterion, and the hydraulic fracturing criterion. In order to fully consider the subjective and objective factors, the combination ordered weighted averaging (C-OWA) operator and the criteria importance through intercriteria correlation (CRITIC)-entropy weighting model (EWM) were used to construct a combination weighting method, and the weight coefficients of each index were comprehensively determined. Based on the SPA theory and calculation rules, combined with the lining suitability grading criteria, the five-element connection degree of each index and the comprehensive connection degree of each working point were calculated. In this study, the model is applied to the suitability evaluation of reinforced concrete lining at each drilling point of the high-pressure pipeline of a pumped storage power station (PSPS) in Shanxi Province. The results show that the proposed model consisting of subjective weight and objective weight can effectively avoid the error caused by a single weight method, which improves the evaluation sensitivity and rationality.
Knowledge Graph Extrapolation Network with Transductive Learning for Recommendation
Authors: Ma Ruixin , Guo Fangqing , Zhao Liang , Mei Biao , Bu Xiya , Wu Hao , Song Enxin
Published: May 2022

A knowledge graph is introduced into the personalized recommendation algorithm due to its strong ability to express structural information and exploit side information. However, there is a long tail phenomenon and data sparsity in real knowledge graphs, and most items are related to only a few triples. This results in a significant reduction in the amount of data available for training, and makes it difficult to make accurate recommendations. Motivated by these limitations, the Knowledge Graph Extrapolation Network with Transductive Learning for Recommendation (KGET) is proposed to improve recommendation quality. To be specific, the method first learns the embedding of users and items by knowledge propagation combined with collaborative signal to obtain high-order structural information, and the attention mechanism is used to distinguish the contributions of different neighbor nodes in propagation. In order to better solve with data sparsity and long tail phenomenon, transductive learning is designed to model links between unknown items to enrich feature representation to further extrapolate the knowledge graph. We conduct experiments with two datasets about music and books, the experiment results reveal that our proposed method outperforms state-of-the-art recommendation methods. KGET also achieves strong and stable performance in sparse data scenarios where items have merely a few triples.
Characteristics of Dynamic Safety Factors during the Construction Process for a Tunnel-Group Metro Station
Authors: Li Qingfei , Li Ruozhou , He Weiguo , Gao Xin , Yao Xupeng , Yuan Yong , Zhang Jiaolong
Published: May 2022

Dynamic safety factors during the construction of an overlapping tunnel-group metro station were studied in the framework of the strength-reduction finite element method. Based on the equivalent plastic strain and displacement of surrounding rock, its damage mode under typical excavation conditions was investigated. The aim of this investigation was to provide information for the design activities concerning the supporting system of the station and the pre-reinforcement of its surrounding ground. The accuracy of the model was assessed by comparing the ground settlements obtained from on-site monitoring with those from the numerical model. The analysis results show that the safety factor reaches the minimum when the No. 3 guide hole of the station hall is excavated. Thus, this is the most dangerous construction step. During this step, the plastic zone penetration phenomenon occurs in the surrounding rock, which is sandwiched between the hall and the platform of the station. In this case, both the deformation of the surrounding rock and the internal forces of the lining increase. The surrounding rock in the sidewall loses its stability. Thereafter, the primary support plays a role of stabilizing the guide hole.
Determining the Tightrope Tightening Force for Effective Fixation of the Tibiofibular Syndesmosis during Osteomeatal Synthesis of Fibula Injuries
Authors: Bazaluk Oleg , Chuzhak Andriy , Sulyma Vadym , Velychkovych Andrii , Ropyak Liubomyr , Vytvytskyi Vasyl , Mykhailiuk Vasyl , Lozynskyi Vasyl
Published: May 2022

The issue of choosing the method for optimal surgical treatment of a broken fibula has been debatable for many years. At the same time, concomitant repair of tibiofibular syndesmosis injuries does not have a unified approach. It has been determined that osteosynthesis of broken shin bones with syndesmosis injury should combine stable fixation of the broken bone and should not limit the elastic properties of the syndesmosis. In case of a broken fibula, it is recommended to use a stable extracortical fixator and an elastic connection of the syndesmosis injury using a tightrope. An analytical model of the broken fibula, which is blocked with an extracortical fixator metal plate and elastically fixed with a tightrope, has been developed. The research object is the stress–strain state of the “broken fibula–extracortical titanium plate” composition under the action of tightrope tightening fixation. The main research result is an analytical dependence, which makes it possible to determine the permissible value of the tightrope tightening force for elastic fixation of the tibiofibular syndesmosis. The research results have been tested numerically, and the influence of the parameters of plate, bone and damage localization on the permissible value of the tightrope tightening force has been analyzed. By using the rational tightrope tightening force with stable–elastic fixation of the broken shin, it is possible to reduce the time before the start of loading on the injured extremity and accelerate the functional recovery of the patient.
Study on Load Transfer Mechanism of Pile-Supported Embankment Based on Response Surface Method
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Xizhao , Yang Guangqing , Zong Yiming
Published: May 2022

Based on the improved three-dimensional finite element model, this paper studies the load transfer mechanism of pile-supported reinforced embankments. The model uses an elastic medium to replace the soft soil subgrade, which reduces the calculation depth of the subgrade and improves the calculation efficiency of the model. The validity of the model is proven by field test results and theoretical calculation results. By changing the cohesion, internal friction angle, elastic modulus of the embankment filler, and geogrid strength, the effects of various influencing factors on the pile–soil stress ratio, the load-sharing ratio of the soil arching effect, and the load-sharing ratio of the membrane effect was analyzed, and the sensitivity of each influencing factor was evaluated. Based on the response surface optimization test, the multiple regression equation of influencing factors and evaluation indicators was established. The interaction between the parameters was analyzed, and the optimal combination of parameters was solved. The results show the following: Increasing the cohesion, the internal friction angle, and the elastic modulus of the embankment filler can promote the soil arching effect to a certain extent. However, for reinforced embankments, a large cohesion, a large internal friction angle, and a high elastic modulus of an embankment will reduce the pile–soil differential settlement and the pile–soil stress ratio; an increase in geogrid strength has a certain promoting effect on the pile–soil stress ratio. When the geogrid strength reaches 120 kN/m, the pile–soil stress ratio tends to be stable; the tested regression model can accurately reflect the changes in the relationship between the influencing factors and the response values, and it fits the actual situation well. Numerical simulation results show that the optimized pile–soil stress ratio increases by 13.4%.
Hadamard Aperiodic Interval Codes for Parallel-Transmission 2D and 3D Synthetic Aperture Ultrasound Imaging
Authors: Kaddoura Tarek , Zemp Roger J.
Published: May 2022

We present a new set of near orthogonal codes which we call Hadamard Aperiodic Interval (HAPI) codes and demonstrate their utility for parallel multi-transmitter synthetic aperture imaging. The codes are tri-state and sparse. Locations of non-zero bits are based on marks in a sequence of aperiodic intervals, also known as a Golomb ruler. The values of non-zero bits are selected from Hadamard sequences that are mutually orthogonal. This ensures that cross-correlation sidelobe magnitudes between differing codes are bounded by unity while the autocorrelation approaches a delta function with mainlobe-to-sidelobe levels scaling with the number of non-zero bits. We use simulations to demonstrate the potential of the codes for synthetic aperture imaging. A multiplicity of transmitter elements is used to transmit codes simultaneously, with a different code for each element. Echo signals are received from a multiplicity of transducer elements in parallel. Channel data from each receiver element are cross-correlated with respective HAPI codes to estimate the transmit–receive signature associated with each transmitter–receiver pair while minimizing crosstalk. This estimate of the full transmit–receive synthetic aperture dataset is then used to form high-quality images demonstrating image quality and signal-to-noise ratio improvements over multiple flash angle imaging and synthetic aperture imaging methods for linear arrays. We also demonstrate simulated full volume synthetic aperture imaging with random sparse arrays, possible with one extended HAPI code-set transmit event.
Comprehensive Review on Development of Early Diagnostics on Oral Cancer with a Special Focus on Biomarkers
Authors: Umapathy Vidhya Rekha , Natarajan Prabhu Manickam , Swamikannu Bhuminathan
Published: May 2022

One of the most frequent head and neck cancers is oral cancer, with less than half of those diagnosed surviving five years. Despite breakthroughs in the treatment of many other cancers, the prognosis for people with OSCC remains dismal. The conventional methods of detection include a thorough clinical examination, biochemical investigations, and invasive biopsies. Early identification and treatment are important for a better chance of extending a patient’s life. Early diagnosis may be possible by identifying biomarkers in biological fluids. Currently, the primary method for diagnosing oral lesions is a visual oral examination; however, such a technique has certain drawbacks, as individuals are recognized after their cancer has advanced to a severe degree. The first section of this review discusses several diagnostic techniques for cancer detection, while the second section discusses the present state of knowledge about known existing predictive markers for the timely identification of malignant lesions, as well as disease activity tracking. The aim of the paper is to conduct a critical review of existing oral cancer diagnostic processes and to consider the possible application of innovative technology for early detection. This might broaden our diagnostic choices and enhance our capacity to identify and treat oral malignant tumors more effectively.
Novelty Detection with Autoencoders for System Health Monitoring in Industrial Environments
Authors: Del Buono Francesco , Calabrese Francesca , Baraldi Andrea , Paganelli Matteo , Guerra Francesco
Published: May 2022

Predictive Maintenance (PdM) is the newest strategy for maintenance management in industrial contexts. It aims to predict the occurrence of a failure to minimize unexpected downtimes and maximize the useful life of components. In data-driven approaches, PdM makes use of Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to extract relevant features from signals, identify and classify possible faults (diagnostics), and predict the components’ remaining useful life (prognostics). The major challenge lies in the high complexity of industrial plants, where both operational conditions change over time and a large number of unknown modes occur. A solution to this problem is offered by novelty detection, where a representation of the machinery normal operating state is learned and compared with online measurements to identify new operating conditions. In this paper, a systematic study of autoencoder-based methods for novelty detection is conducted. We introduce an architecture template, which includes a classification layer to detect and separate the operative conditions, and a localizer for identifying the most influencing signals. Four implementations, with different deep learning models, are described and used to evaluate the approach on data collected from a test rig. The evaluation shows the effectiveness of the architecture and that the autoencoders outperform the current baselines.
An LLC Converter with Capacitive Insulation
Authors: Yau Yeu-Torng , Hung Tsung-Liang
Published: May 2022

Offline power converter products must apply for and pass the national electrical safety code before they can be marketed. The transformers of offline power converters must be made from certificated materials with a high voltage rating and high electrical insulation, which increases the volume of the transformers and the printed circuit boards. In most studies, the miniaturization of a power converter is usually achieved by increasing the conversion efficiency and reducing the heat sink, or by increasing the switching frequency to reduce the size of the transformers. In this paper, the insulation material is reduced to miniaturize the transformer of the LLC converter. The resonant capacitor of the LLC converter is used to meet the requirements of insulation voltage, leakage current, creepage, and clearance. A prototype with the specifications of 12 V and 10 A rated output was built to verify the proposed method.
A Model Test of the Dynamic Stiffnesses and Bearing Capacities of Different Types of Bridge Foundations
Authors: Liu Jianlei , Ma Meng
Published: May 2022

With the rapid development of traffic infrastructures in developing countries, the evaluation demands for the vertical capacities of in-service bridges are increasing. The feasibilities of the transient response method (TRM) and index of dynamic stiffness for evaluating pile foundations are proven. However, their applicability to other types of bridge foundations must be investigated, and the correlation between the dynamic and static stiffnesses is also needed for analysis. In the present study, model tests were performed in a laboratory for various types of bridge foundations. A total of eight foundation models were fabricated for three types of bridge foundations. Both TRM and static loading tests were applied on each model. The influence of the foundation constraint state was tested as well. The results show that there is an obvious correlation between the dynamic and static stiffnesses and that the index of dynamic stiffness can reflect the foundation bearing capacity. Accordingly, the TRM can be employed to evaluate different foundation types, including spread, caisson, and pile foundations.
Correction: Han et al. Interpolation-Based Fusion of Sentinel-5P, SRTM, and Regulatory-Grade Ground Stations Data for Producing Spatially Continuous Maps of PM2.5 Concentrations Nationwide over Thailand. Atmosphere 2022, 13, 161
Authors: Han Shinhye , Kundhikanjana Worasom , Towashiraporn Peeranan , Stratoulias Dimitris
Published: May 2022

In the original publication [...]
Time Series Forecasting of Air Quality: A Case Study of Sofia City
Authors: Marinov Evgeniy , Petrova-Antonova Dessislava , Malinov Simeon
Published: May 2022

Air pollution has a significant impact on human health and the environment, causing cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, lung cancer and other diseases. Understanding the behavior of air pollutants is essential for adequate decisions that can lead to a better quality of life for citizens. Air quality forecasting is a reliable method for taking preventive and regulatory actions. Time series analysis produces forecasting models, which study the characteristics of the data points over time to extrapolate them in the future. This study explores the trends of air pollution at five air quality stations in Sofia, Bulgaria. The data collected between 2015 and 2019 is analyzed applying time series forecasting. Since the time series analysis works on complete data, imputation techniques are used to deal with missing values of pollutants. The data is aggregated by granularity periods of 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h (1 day). The AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) method is employed to create statistical analysis models for the prediction of pollutants’ levels at each air quality station and for each granularity, including carbon oxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3) and fine particles (PM2.5). In addition, the method allows us to find out whether the pollutants’ levels exceed the limits prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as to investigate the correlation between levels of a given pollutant measured in different air quality stations.
Progress in Metal-Organic Framework Catalysts for Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx: A Mini-Review
Authors: Gao Yuan , Gong Si-Yan , Chen Baixiao , Xing Wen-Hao , Fei Yan-Fei , Hu Zhong-Ting , Pan Zhiyan
Published: May 2022

Nitrogen oxides released from the combustion of fossil fuels are one of the main air pollutants. Selective catalytic reduction technology is the most widely used nitrogen oxide removal technology in the industry. With the development of nanomaterials science, more and more novel nanomaterials are being used as catalysts for the selective reduction of nitrogen oxides. In recent years, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with large specific surface areas and abundant acid and metal sites, have been extensively studied in the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides. This review summarizes recent progress in monometallic MOFs, bimetallic MOFs, and MOF-derived catalysts for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides and compares the reaction mechanisms of different catalysts. This article also suggests the advantages and disadvantages of MOF-based catalysts compared with traditional catalysts and points out promising research directions in this field.
Comparison of the on Board Measured and Simulated Exhaust Gas Emissions on the Ro-Pax Vessels
Authors: Orović Josip , Valčić Marko , Knežević Vlatko , Pavin Zoran
Published: May 2022

Increasingly stringent environmental requirements for marine engines imposed by the International Maritime Organisation and the European Union require that marine engines have the lowest possible emissions of greenhouse and harmful exhaust gases into the atmosphere. In this research, exhaust gas emissions were measured on three Ro-Pax vessels sailing in the Adriatic Sea. Testo 350 Maritime exhaust gas analyser was used for monitoring the dry exhaust gas concentrations of CO2 and O2 in percentage, concentrations of CO and NOx in ppm and exhaust gas temperature in °C after the turbocharger at different engine loads. In order to compare and validate measured values, exhaust gas measurement data were also obtained from a Wartsila-Transas simulator model of a similar Ro-Pax vessel during the joint operation of the engine room and navigational simulators. All analysed main engines on three vessels had complete combustion processes in the cylinders with small differences which should be further investigated. Comparison of on board measured parameters with simulated parameters showed that significant fuel oil reduction per voyage could be accomplished by voyage and/or engine operation optimization procedures. Results of this analysis could be used for creating additional emission database and data-driven models for further analysis and improved estimation of exhaust gasses under various marine engine conditions. Additionally, the results could be useful to all interested parties in reducing the fuel oil consumption and emissions of greenhouse and harmful exhaust gases from vessels into the atmosphere.
The Ethics of Translational Audiology
Authors: Bendowska Aleksandra , Malak Roksana , Zok Agnieszka , Baum Ewa
Published: May 2022

Translational research moves promising primary research results from the laboratory to practical application. The transition from basic science to clinical research and from clinical research to routine healthcare applications presents many challenges, including ethical. This paper addresses issues in the ethics of translational audiology and discusses the ethical principles that should guide research involving people with hearing loss. Four major ethical principles are defined and explained, which are as follows: beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, and justice. In addition, the authors discuss issues of discrimination and equal access to medical services among people with hearing loss. Despite audiology’s broad field of interest, which includes evaluation and treatment of auditory disorders (e.g., deafness, tinnitus, misophonia, or hyperacusis) and balance disorders, this study focuses primarily on deafness and its therapies.
Soluble Papain to Digest Monoclonal Antibodies; Time and Cost-Effective Method to Obtain Fab Fragment
Authors: Collins Matthew , Khalili Hanieh
Published: May 2022

Antigen binding fragments (Fabs) used in research (e.g., antibody mimetics, antibody-drug conjugate, bispecific antibodies) are frequently obtained by enzymatic digestion of monoclonal antibodies using immobilised papain. Despite obtaining pure Fab, using immobilised papain to digest IgG has limitations, most notably slow digestion time (more than 8 h), high cost and limited scalability. Here we report a time and cost-effective method to produce pure, active and stable Fab using soluble papain. Large laboratory scale digestion of an antibody (100 mg) was achieved using soluble papain with a digestion time of 30 min and isolated yields of 55–60%. The obtained Fabs displayed similar binding activity as Fabs prepared via immobilised papain digestion. Site-specific conjugation between Fabs and polyethylene glycol (PEG) was carried out to obtain antibody mimetics FpF (Fab-PEG-Fab) indicating that the native disulphide bond had been preserved. Surface-plasmon resonance (SPR) of prepared FpFs showed that binding activity towards the intended antigen was maintained. We anticipate that this work will provide a fast and less costly method for researchers to produce antibody fragments at large scale from whole IgG suitable for use in research.
Does the Location of Shoe Upper Support on Basketball Shoes Influence Ground Reaction Force and Ankle Mechanics during Cutting Maneuvers?
Authors: Liu Yu , Lam Wing-Kai , Seglina Ieva , Apps Charlotte
Published: May 2022

This study examined the location effect of lateral shoe upper supports on the ground reaction forces, as well as ankle kinematics and moments during the change of direction maneuvers using a statistical parametric mapping approach. University basketball athletes performed side-cuts, complete turns and lateral shuffle maneuvers with their maximum-effort in four shoe conditions with varying shoe upper support locations: full-length, forefoot, rearfoot, none (control). The statistical parametric mapping repeated measures ANOVA test was applied to compare differences between the shoe conditions, followed-up with post-hoc statistical parametric mapping paired t-tests between all shoe conditions. The coronal ankle results revealed that the forefoot support shoe had a reduced eversion moment that varied between ~25–95% across all change of directions (p < 0.05). However, the forefoot upper shoe had increased ankle inversion between ~8–14% (complete turns) and ~96–100% (side-cuts and lateral shuffles), and increased inversion velocity in side-cuts than the other shoes (p < 0.05). Compared to the control, the rearfoot support shoes reduced inversion velocity in side-cut between ~78–92% (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that a forefoot upper support induced most changes in ankle mechanics during basketball cutting maneuvers, with only inversion angle in the complete turn being influenced during the initial period where ankle injury may occur. Future research should examine if these coronal ankle mechanics influence change-of-direction performance and injury risk with regular wear.
Design, Synthesis, and Antisickling Investigation of a Nitric Oxide-Releasing Prodrug of 5HMF for the Treatment of Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Alhashimi Rana T. , Ghatge Mohini S. , Donkor Akua K. , Deshpande Tanvi M. , Anabaraonye Nancy , Alramadhani Dina , Danso-Danquah Richmond , Huang Boshi , Zhang Yan , Musayev Faik N. , Abdulmalik Osheiza , Safo Martin K.
Published: May 2022

5-hydroxyfurfural (5HMF), an allosteric effector of hemoglobin (Hb) with an ability to increase Hb affinity for oxygen has been studied extensively for its antisickling effect in vitro and in vivo, and in humans for the treatment of sickle cell disease (SCD). One of the downstream pathophysiologies of SCD is nitric oxide (NO) deficiency, therefore increasing NO (bio)availability is known to mitigate the severity of SCD symptoms. We report the synthesis of an NO-releasing prodrug of 5HMF (5HMF-NO), which in vivo, is expected to be bio-transformed into 5HMF and NO, with concomitant therapeutic activities. In vitro studies showed that when incubated with whole blood, 5HMF-NO releases NO, as anticipated. When incubated with sickle blood, 5HMF-NO formed Schiff base adduct with Hb, increased Hb affinity for oxygen, and prevented hypoxia-induced erythrocyte sickling, which at 1 mM concentration were 16%, 10% and 27%, respectively, compared to 21%, 18% and 21% for 5HMF. Crystal structures of 5HMF-NO with Hb showed 5HMF-NO bound to unliganded (deoxygenated) Hb, while the hydrolyzed product, 5HMF bound to liganded (carbonmonoxy-ligated) Hb. Our findings from this proof-of-concept study suggest that the incorporation of NO donor group to 5HMF and analogous molecules could be a novel beneficial strategy to treat SCD and warrants further detailed in vivo studies.
Electrochemical DNA Sensor Based on Carbon Black—Poly(Methylene Blue)—Poly(Neutral Red) Composite
Authors: Kappo Dominica , Shurpik Dmitry , Padnya Pavel , Stoikov Ivan , Rogov Alexey , Evtugyn Gennady
Published: May 2022

The detection of small molecules interacting with DNA is important for the assessment of potential hazards related to the application of rather toxic antitumor drugs, and for distinguishing the factors related to thermal and oxidative DNA damage. In this work, a novel electrochemical DNA sensor has been proposed for the determination of antitumor drugs. For DNA sensor assembling, a glassy carbon electrode was modified with carbon black dispersed in DMF. After that, pillar [5]arene was adsorbed and Methylene blue and Neutral red were consecutively electropolymerized onto the carbon black layer. To increase sensitivity of intercalator detection, DNA was first mixed with water-soluble thiacalixarene bearing quaternary ammonium groups in the substituents at the lower rim. The deposition of the mixture on the electropolymerized dyes made it possible to detect doxorubicin as model intercalator by suppression of the redox activity of the polymerization products. The DNA sensor made it possible to determine 0.5 pM–1.0 nM doxorubicin (limit of detection 0.13 pM) with 20 min of incubation. The DNA sensor was successfully tested on spiked samples of human plasma and doxorubicin medication.
Electrochemical Biosensor Using Nitrogen-Doped Graphene/Au Nanoparticles/DNAzyme for Ca2+ Determination
Authors: Yu Zhixue , Wang Hui , Zhao Yiguang , Zhang Fan , Tang Xiangfang , Xiong Benhai
Published: May 2022

An electrochemical biosensor for detecting Ca2+ concentration was proposed using glass carbon electrodes (GCEs) modified with nitrogen-doped graphene (NGR), gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and DNAzyme. The resistance signal was amplified through two methods: electrochemical reduction of AuNPs on the NGR surface to increase the specific surface area of the electrode and strengthen the adsorption of DNAzyme; and increasement of the DNAzyme base sequence. The process of electrode modification was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Experimental parameters’ influence, such as the deposition time of gold nanoparticles and the detection time, were assessed by electrochemical methods. The linear ranges of the electrochemical biosensor were in the range from 5 × 10−6 to 5 × 10−5 and 5 × 10−5 to 4 × 10−4 M, with a detection limit of 3.8 × 10−6 M. The concentration of Ca2+ in the serum of dairy cows was determined by the biosensor with satisfactory results, which could be potentially used to diagnose subclinical hypocalcemia.
Fear of Death in Medical Students from a Peruvian University during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Miranda-Chavez Brayan , Copaja-Corzo Cesar , Rivarola-Hidalgo Marco , Taype-Rondan Álvaro
Published: May 2022

Due to close contact with death, medical students may question their own and their patients’ dying process, especially with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the increase in deaths. This situation provokes fear and negative attitudes towards dealing with patients and their environment. This study aimed to assess the level of fear of death and associated factors in medical students at a Peruvian university. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted during March 2021 in human medicine students from the first to the seventh year. A validated survey including the Collet–Lester fear-of-death scale was applied. Factors associated with the fear-of-death score were evaluated by calculating linear regression coefficients (β). A total of 284 students were included. The median age was 22 years, and 58.1% were female. The mean Collet–Lester scale score was 2.79, and it was higher in the dimensions related to the death of others. Adjusted analysis showed that the score on this scale was lower in students aged 24–40 years compared to 17–21 years (β: −0.25; 95% CI: −0.46 to −0.04) and those who had no religious beliefs (β: −0.29; 95% CI: −0.53 to −0.04). In conclusion, fear of death was lower than reported in other investigations despite the COVID-19 situation, being much lower among older students and those without religious beliefs.