bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient Time and Space Representation of Uncertain Event Data
Authors: Pegoraro Marco , Uysal Merih Seran , van der Aalst Wil M. P.
Published: November 2020

Process mining is a discipline which concerns the analysis of execution data of operational processes, the extraction of models from event data, the measurement of the conformance between event data and normative models, and the enhancement of all aspects of processes. Most approaches assume that event data is accurately captured behavior. However, this is not realistic in many applications: data can contain uncertainty, generated from errors in recording, imprecise measurements, and other factors. Recently, new methods have been developed to analyze event data containing uncertainty; these techniques prominently rely on representing uncertain event data by means of graph-based models explicitly capturing uncertainty. In this paper, we introduce a new approach to efficiently calculate a graph representation of the behavior contained in an uncertain process trace. We present our novel algorithm, prove its asymptotic time complexity, and show experimental results that highlight order-of-magnitude performance improvements for the behavior graph construction.
Application of Bayesian Hierarchical Negative Binomial Finite Mixture Model for Cost-Benefit Analysis of Barriers Optimization, Accounting for Severe Heterogeneity
Authors: Rezapour Mahdi , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: November 2020

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) initiated a project to optimize the heights of barriers that are not satisfying the barrier design criteria, while prioritizing them based on an ability to achieve higher monetary benefits. The equivalent property damage only (EPDO) was used in this study to account for both aspects of crash frequency and severity. Data of this type are known to have overdispersion, that is having a variance greater than the mean. Thus, a negative binomial model was implemented to address the over-dispersion issue of the dataset. Another challenge of the dataset used in this study was the heterogeneity of the dataset. The data heterogeneity resulted from various factors such as data being aggregated across two highway systems, and the presence of two barrier types in the whole state. Thus, it is not practical to assign a subjective hierarchy such as a highway system or barrier types to address the issue of severe heterogeneity in the dataset. Under these conditions, a finite mixture model (FMM) was implemented to find a best distribution parameter to characterize the observations. With this technique, after the optimum number of mixtures was identified, those clusters were assigned to various observations. However, previous studies mostly employed just the finite mixture model (FMM), with various distributions, to account for unobserved heterogeneity. The problem with the FMM approach is that it results in a loss of information: for instance, it would come up with N number of equations, where each result would use only part of the whole dataset. On the other hand, some studies used a subjective hierarchy to account for the heterogeneity in the dataset, such as the effect of seasonality or highway system; however, those subjective hierarchies might not account for the optimum heterogeneity in the dataset. Thus, we implement a new methodology, the Bayesian Hierarchical Finite Mixture (BHFMM) to employ the FMM without losing information, while also accounting for the heterogeneity in the dataset, by considering objective and unbiased hierarchies. As the Bayesian technique has the shortcoming of labeling the observations due to label switching; the FMM parameters were estimated by maximum likelihood technique. Results of the identified model were converted to an equation for implementation of machine learning techniques. The heights were optimized to an optimal value and the EPDO was predicted based on the changes. The results of the cost–benefit analysis indicated that after spending about 4 million dollars, the WYDOT would not only recover the expenses, but could also expect to save more than $4 million additional dollars through traffic barrier crash reduction.
Algorithm for Mapping Kidney Tissue Water Content during Normothermic Machine Perfusion Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Markgraf Wenke , Lilienthal Jannis , Feistel Philipp , Thiele Christine , Malberg Hagen
Published: November 2020

The preservation of kidneys using normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) prior to transplantation has the potential for predictive evaluation of organ quality. Investigations concerning the quantitative assessment of physiological tissue parameters and their dependence on organ function lack in this context. In this study, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in the wavelength range of 500–995 nm was conducted for the determination of tissue water content (TWC) in kidneys. The quantitative relationship between spectral data and the reference TWC values was established by partial least squares regression (PLSR). Different preprocessing methods were applied to investigate their influence on predicting the TWC of kidneys. In the full wavelength range, the best models for absorbance and reflectance spectra provided Rp2 values of 0.968 and 0.963, as well as root-mean-square error of prediction (RMSEP) values of 2.016 and 2.155, respectively. Considering an optimal wavelength range (800–980 nm), the best model based on reflectance spectra (Rp2 value of 0.941, RMSEP value of 3.202). Finally, the visualization of TWC distribution in all pixels of kidneys’ HSI image was implemented. The results show the feasibility of HSI for a non-invasively and accurate TWC prediction in kidneys, which could be used in the future to assess the quality of kidneys during the preservation period.
Productive and Environmental Consequences of Sixteen Years of Unbalanced Fertilization with Nitrogen and Phosphorus—Trials in Poland with Oilseed Rape, Wheat, Maize and Barley
Authors: Rutkowska Agnieszka , Skowron Piotr
Published: November 2020

Two factorial field experiments were carried out between 2003 and 2018 in the Experimental Stations in Eastern and Western Poland using four crop rotations with winter oilseed rape, winter wheat, maize and spring barley. The initial value of phosphorus (P) in Grabów soil was 69.8 mg P·kg−1 soil and in Baborówko soil it was 111.3 mg P·kg−1 soil (Egner-Riehm Double-Lactate DL). P fertilizer was added annually at 39 kg P·ha−1 under winter oilseed rape, 35 kg P·ha−1 under maize and 31 kg P·ha−1 under wheat and barley using superphosphate and nitrogen (N), which was added at five levels (30–250 kg N·ha−1) per year as ammonium nitrate in addition to controls with no added fertilizer. Through the several years of the experiment, P fertilizer had no effect on crop N use efficiency (NUE) nor crop productivity. There was significant soil P mining particularly in the high-N fertilizer trials causing a reduction in the content of available soil P by up to 35%. This work recommends that, based on soil P analysis, P fertilizer should not be added to high-P soils. This practice may continue uninterrupted for several years (16 in this case) until the excess soil P has been reduced. This mechanism of removal of “legacy” P from soil has major implications in reducing runoff P into the Baltic Sea drainage area and other water bodies.
Infrared Thermography Correlates with Lactate Concentration in Blood during Race Training in Horses
Authors: Witkowska-Piłaszewicz Olga , Maśko Małgorzata , Domino Małgorzata , Winnicka Anna
Published: November 2020

In horse racing the most acceptable way to objectively evaluate adaptation to increased exertion is to measure lactate blood concentration. However, this may be stressful for the horse, therefore, a simple, noninvasive procedure to monitor race progress is desirable. Forty Thoroughbreds attended race training, with blood samples collected at rest, immediately after, and 30 min after exercise. The lactate concentration was determined 60 s after blood collection using an Accusport®. Thermal imaging of the neck and trunk areas was performed following international veterinary standards from a distance of approximately 2 m from the horse using the same protocol as the blood sampling. The Spearman rank correlation coefficients (ρ) between the changes in the blood lactate concentration and surface temperature measures were found for the regions of interest. The highest positive correlation coefficients were found in the musculus trapezius pars thoracica region for the maximal temperature (T Max; ρ = 0.83; p < 0.0001), the minimal temperature (T Min; ρ = 0.83; p < 0.0001), and the average temperature (T Aver; ρ = 0.85; p < 0.0001) 30 min after the exercise. The results showed that infrared thermography may supplement blood measurements to evaluate adaptation to increased workload during race training, however, more research and references values are needed.
Geographic Origin and Genetic Characteristics of Japanese Indigenous Chickens Inferred from Mitochondrial D-Loop Region and Microsatellite DNA Markers
Authors: Hata Ayano , Takenouchi Atsushi , Kinoshita Keiji , Hirokawa Momomi , Igawa Takeshi , Nunome Mitsuo , Suzuki Takayuki , Tsudzuki Masaoki
Published: November 2020

Japanese indigenous chickens have a long breeding history, possibly beginning 2000 years ago. Genetic characterization of Japanese indigenous chickens has been performed using mitochondrial D-loop region and microsatellite DNA markers. Their phylogenetic relationships with chickens worldwide and genetic variation within breeds have not yet been examined. In this study, the genetic characteristics of 38 Japanese indigenous chicken breeds were assessed by phylogenetic analyses of mitochondrial D-loop sequences compared with those of indigenous chicken breeds overseas. To evaluate the genetic relationships among Japanese indigenous chicken breeds, a STRUCTURE analysis was conducted using 27 microsatellite DNA markers. D-loop sequences of Japanese indigenous chickens were classified into five major haplogroups, A–E, among 15 haplogroups found in chickens worldwide. The haplogroup composition suggested that Japanese indigenous chickens originated mainly from China, with some originating from Southeast Asia. The STRUCTURE analyses revealed that Japanese indigenous chickens are genetically differentiated from chickens overseas; Japanese indigenous chicken breeds possess distinctive genetic characteristics, and Jidori breeds, which have been reared in various regions of Japan for a long time, are genetically close to each other. These results provide new insights into the history of chickens around Asia in addition to novel genetic data for the conservation of Japanese indigenous chickens.
Changes in Saliva Analytes Associated with Lameness in Cows: A Pilot Study
Authors: Contreras-Aguilar María D. , Vallejo-Mateo Pedro Javier , Želvytė Rasa , Tecles Fernando , Rubio Camila Peres
Published: November 2020

The possible changes in a panel of 21 salivary analytes on a population of cows with lameness before and after treating lameness by hoof trimming were analyzed. Then, the analytes that showed significant changes were studied in a larger population of cows with lameness and compared with healthy cows For this purpose, two groups of cows were made by a specialized veterinarian. One consisted of healthy cows with no external signs of diseases and no hematological or biochemical abnormalities, and showing no signs of lameness according to the numerical rating system of severity (NRS, 5-point scale); and the other composed of cows showing only lameness with a NRS of 3.1 ± 0.87 and a lesion scoring system (LSS, 4-point scale) of 3.3 ± 0.89. Both groups did not differ in parity (p = 0.140), days in milk (DIM) (p = 0.780), and body condition score (BCS) (p = 0.074). Initially, 21 biochemical analytes were determined in the saliva of six cows with lameness at the diagnosis time (T0) and twenty days after hoof trimming that successfully solved the lameness (TF). This exploratory study only showed significantly higher values in lipase (Lip) and total esterase (TEA) at T0 compared to TF (p < 0.001 and p = 0.034, respectively). When both analytes were measured in the additional five lame cows and the results of all the animals of the lame group (n = 11) were compared with the healthy group (n = 11), only TEA showed higher activities in the group of lame cows than healthy cows (p = 0.004). TEA was positively correlated with both NRS and LSS (r = 0.43, p = 0.004 and r = 0.35, p = 0.003). In conclusion, this study showed that cows with lameness in our experimental conditions had higher TEA values than healthy cows, and these values decreased after treatment. This is a pilot study, and further studies using a larger population of cows with lameness due to different causes and severity should be performed to determine the potential of TEA as a biomarker of lameness in cows.
Carbon Footprint Assessment of Spanish Dairy Cattle Farms: Effectiveness of Dietary and Farm Management Practices as a Mitigation Strategy
Authors: Ibidhi Ridha , Calsamiglia Sergio
Published: November 2020

Greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint (CF) were estimated in twelve Spanish dairy farms selected from three regions (Mediterranean, MED; Cantabric, CAN; and Central, CEN) using a partial life cycle assessment through the Integrated Farm System Model (IFSM). The functional unit was 1 kg of energy corrected milk (ECM). Methane emissions accounted for the largest contribution to the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The average CF (kg CO2-eq/kg of ECM) was 0.84, being the highest in MED (0.98), intermediate in CEN (0.84), and the lowest in CAN (0.67). Two extreme farms were selected for further simulations: one with the highest non-enteric methane (MED1), and another with the highest enteric methane (CAN2). Changes in management scenarios (increase milk production, change manure collection systems, change manure-type storage method, change bedding type and installation of an anaerobic digester) in MED1 were evaluated with the IFSM model. Changes in feeding strategies (reduce the forage: concentrate ratio, improve forage quality, use of ionophores) in CAN2 were evaluated with the Cornell Net Carbohydrate and Protein System model. Results indicate that changes in management (up to 27.5% reduction) were more efficient than changes in dietary practices (up to 3.5% reduction) in reducing the carbon footprint.
The Rush for the Rare: Reptiles and Amphibians in the European Pet Trade
Authors: Altherr Sandra , Lameter Katharina
Published: November 2020

Direct exploitation is one of the five main reasons for the loss of biodiversity, and collections for the international pet trade are an ongoing threat for many reptiles and amphibians. The European Union and in particular Germany have a central role as a hub and destination for exotic pets from all over the world. Rare species of reptiles and amphibians especially are in the focus of collectors. Rarity on the market may be either caused by rarity of a species in the wild or by a limited availability for sale, e.g., due to national protection measures in the range state or remote localities. The present study identified 43 species that are not listed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and were only recently described, but have already entered the European pet trade. Ten of these species were selected as case studies, representing species from different geographic regions and illustrating the marketing mechanisms. Many such species that are new to science are neither assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species nor are they covered by international legislation, even though in several countries, where such internationally sought-after species are caught, national protection measures are in place. This paper analyses the challenges and opportunities for the protection of potentially threatened and newly described reptile and amphibian species against over-exploitation for the pet trade.
Ecological and Behavioral Drivers of Supplemental Feeding Use by Roe Deer Capreolus capreolus in a Peri-Urban Context
Authors: Ossi Federico , Ranc Nathan , Moorcroft Paul , Bonanni Priscilla , Cagnacci Francesca
Published: November 2020

Winter supplemental feeding of ungulates potentially alters their use of resources and ecological interactions, yet relatively little is known about the patterns of feeding sites use by target populations. We used camera traps to continuously monitor winter and spring feeding site use in a roe deer population living in a peri-urban area in Northern Italy. We combined circular statistics with generalized additive and linear mixed models to analyze the diel and seasonal pattern of roe deer visits to feeding sites, and the behavioral drivers influencing visit duration. Roe deer visits peaked at dawn and dusk, and decreased from winter to spring when vegetation regrows and temperature increases. Roe deer mostly visited feeding sites solitarily; when this was not the case, they stayed longer at the site, especially when conspecifics were eating, but maintained a bimodal diel pattern of visits. These results support an opportunistic use of feeding sites, following seasonal cycles and the roe deer circadian clock. Yet, the attractiveness of these artificial resources has the potential to alter intra-specific relationships, as competition for their use induces gatherings and may extend the contact time between individuals, with potential behavioral and epidemiological consequences.
Susceptibility of Campylobacter Strains to Selected Natural Products and Frontline Antibiotics
Authors: Gahamanyi Noel , Song Dae-Geun , Cha Kwang Hyun , Yoon Kye-Yoon , Mboera Leonard E.G. , Matee Mecky I. , Mutangana Dieudonné , Amachawadi Raghavendra G. , Komba Erick V.G. , Pan Cheol-Ho
Published: November 2020

Campylobacter species have developed resistance to existing antibiotics. The development of alternative therapies is, therefore, a necessity. This study evaluates the susceptibility of Campylobacter strains to selected natural products (NPs) and frontline antibiotics. Two C. jejuni strains (ATCC® 33560TM and MT947450) and two C. coli strains (ATCC® 33559TM and MT947451) were used. The antimicrobial potential of the NPs, including plant extracts, essential oils, and pure phytochemicals, was evaluated by broth microdilution. The growth was measured by spectrophotometry and iodonitrotetrazolium chloride. Antibiotic resistance genes (tet(O) and gyrA) were characterized at the molecular level. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBCs) ranged from 25 to 1600 µg/mL. Cinnamon oil, (E)-Cinnamaldehyde, clove oil, eugenol, and baicalein had the lowest MIC and MBC values (25–100 µg/mL). MT947450 and MT947451 were sensitive to erythromycin and gentamicin but resistant to quinolones and tetracycline. Mutations in gyrA and tet(O) genes from resistant strains were confirmed by sequencing. The findings show that NPs are effective against drug-sensitive and drug-resistant Campylobacter strains. The resistance to antibiotics was confirmed at phenotypic and genotypic levels. This merits further studies to decipher the action mechanisms and synergistic activities of NPs.
In Vitro Alteration by Dentine and Protein of the Antimicrobial Activity of Two Endodontic Irrigants: HybenX® and Sodium Hypochlorite
Authors: Pace Riccardo , Morecchiato Fabio , Giovannini Luca , Di Nasso Luca , Giuliani Valentina , Franceschi Debora , Pagavino Gabriella , Rossolini Gian Maria , Antonelli Alberto
Published: November 2020

Irrigant solutions commonly used for the treatment of endodontic infections can be inhibited by both organic and inorganic substances. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antimicrobial activity of the novel irrigant HybenX® and 2.5% and 5% sodium hypochlorite against Enterococcus faecalis, in presence of dentine powder (DP) or bovine serum albumin 20% (BSA) as inhibitory agents. An E. faecalis American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 29212 suspension was added to the irrigants (Hybenx® or NaOCl) and one or two different inhibitors (BSA and DP) either after one-hour pre-incubation at 35 ± 1 °C or not. The antimicrobial activity of HybenX® against E. faecalis was already proved at 15 min and was neither affected by BSA nor by DP or combinations thereof. NaOCl 2.5% showed an effective antimicrobial activity starting from 15 min and this activity was partially inhibited by BSA and BSA plus DP combination within one hour when pre-incubation occurred. NaOCl 5% showed antimicrobial activity within 15 min, which was inhibited within one hour only in the presence of both BSA and DP regardless of the pre-incubation period. HybenX® could represent a good alternative to common irrigants for the treatment of E. faecalis endodontic infections, showing a rapid antimicrobial activity not inhibited by organic and inorganic inhibitors.
Vancomycin Serum Concentration after 48 h of Administration: A 3-Years Survey in an Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Perin Nicolas , Roger Claire , Marin Grégory , Molinari Nicolas , Evrard Alexandre , Lavigne Jean-Philippe , Barbar Saber , Claret Pierre Géraud , Boutin Caroline , Muller Laurent , Lipman Jeffrey , Lefrant Jean-Yves , Jaber Samir , Roberts Jason A.
Published: November 2020

The present study assessed the proportion of intensive care unit (ICU) patients who had a vancomycin serum concentration between 20 and 25 mg/L after 24–48 h of intravenous vancomycin administration. From 2016 to 2018, adult ICU patients with vancomycin continuous infusion (CI) for any indication were included. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a first-available vancomycin serum concentration between 20–25 mg/L at 24 h (D2) or 48 h (D3). Of 3894 admitted ICU patients, 179 were included. A median loading dose of 15.6 (interquartile range (IQR) = (12.5–20.8) mg/kg) was given in 151/179 patients (84%). The median daily doses of vancomycin infusion for D1 and D2 were 2000 [(IQR (1600–2000)) and 2000 (IQR (2000–2500)) mg/d], respectively. The median duration of treatment was 4 (2–7) days. At D2 or D3, the median value of first serum vancomycin concentration was 19.8 (IQR (16.0–25.1)) with serum vancomycin concentration between 20–25 mg/L reported in 43 patients (24%). Time spent in the ICU before vancomycin initiation was the only risk factor of non-therapeutic concentration at D2 or D3. Acute kidney injury occurred significantly more when vancomycin concentration was supra therapeutic at D2 or D3. At D28, 44 (26%) patients had died. These results emphasize the need of appropriate loading dose and regular monitoring to improve vancomycin efficacy and avoid renal toxicity.
Effects of Labrador Tea, Peppermint, and Winter Savory Essential Oils on Fusobacterium nucleatum
Authors: Ben Lagha Amel , Vaillancourt Katy , Maquera Huacho Patricia , Grenier Daniel
Published: November 2020

Bad breath or halitosis is an oral condition caused by volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) produced by bacteria found in the dental and tongue biofilms. Fusobacterium nucleatum is a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium that has been strongly associated with halitosis. In this study, essential oils (EO) from three plants, Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum [Oeder] Kron & Judd), peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.), and winter savory (Satureja montana L.), were investigated for their effects on growth, biofilm formation and killing, and VSC production by F. nucleatum. Moreover, their biocompatibility with oral keratinocytes was investigated. Using a broth microdilution assay, winter savory EO and to a lesser extent Labrador tea and peppermint EO showed antibacterial activity against F. nucleatum. A treatment of pre-formed biofilms of F. nucleatum with EO also significantly decreased bacterial viability as determined by a luminescence assay monitoring adenosine triphosphate production. The EO were found to permeabilize the bacterial cell membrane, suggesting that it represents the target of the tested EO. The three EO under investigation were able to dose-dependently reduce VSC production by F. nucleatum. Lastly, no significant loss of cell viability was observed when oral keratinocytes were treated with the EO at concentrations effective against F. nucleatum. This study supports the potential of Labrador tea, peppermint, and winter savory EO as promising agents to control halitosis and promote oral health.
The Safety and Efficacy of Phage Therapy for Bone and Joint Infections: A Systematic Review
Authors: Clarke Alex , De Soir Steven , Jones Joshua
Published: November 2020

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics has catalysed interest in alternative antimicrobial strategies. Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses of bacteria with a long history of successful therapeutic use. Phage therapy is a promising antibacterial strategy for infections with a biofilm component, including recalcitrant bone and joint infections, which have significant social, financial and human impacts. Here, we report a systematic review of the safety and efficacy of phage therapy for the treatment of bone and joint infections. Three electronic databases were systematically searched for articles that reported primary data about human phage therapy for bone and joint infections. Two authors independently assessed study eligibility and performed data extraction. Seventeen reports were eligible for inclusion in this review, representing the treatment of 277 patients. A cautionary, crude, efficacy estimate revealed that 93.1% (n = 258/277) achieved clinical resolution, 3.3% (n = 9/277) had improvement and 3.6% (n = 10/277) showed no improvement. Seven of the nine reports that directly commented on the safety of phage therapy did not express safety concerns. The adverse effects reported in the remaining two were not severe and were linked to the presence of contaminating endotoxins and pre-existing liver pathology in a patient treated with high-titre intravenous phage therapy. Three other reports, from 1940–1987, offered general comments on the safety of phage therapy and documented adverse effects consistent with endotoxin co-administration concomitant with the use of raw phage lysates. Together, the reports identified by this review suggest that appropriately purified phages represent a safe and highly efficacious treatment option for complex and intractable bone and joint infections.
Clinical and Molecular-Genetic Insights into the Role of Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Retinopathy: Antioxidant Strategies and Future Avenues
Authors: Sanz-González Silvia , García-Medina José , Zanón-Moreno Vicente , López-Gálvez María , Galarreta-Mira David , Duarte Lilianne , Valero-Velló Mar , Ramírez Ana , Arévalo J. , Pinazo-Durán María ,   on behalf of the Valencia Study Group on Diabetic Retinopathy (VSDR) Report number 4
Published: November 2020

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and ROS-signaling pathways activation attack the eyes. We evaluated the oxidative stress (OS) and the effects of a daily, core nutritional supplement regimen containing antioxidants and omega 3 fatty acids (A/ω3) in type 2 diabetics (T2DM). A case-control study was carried out in 480 participants [287 T2DM patients with (+)/without (−) diabetic retinopathy (DR) and 193 healthy controls (CG)], randomly assigned to a daily pill of A/ω3. Periodic evaluation through 38 months allowed to outline patient characteristics, DR features, and classic/OS blood parameters. Statistics were performed by the SPSS 24.0 program. Diabetics displayed significantly higher circulating pro-oxidants (p = 0.001) and lower antioxidants (p = 0.0001) than the controls. Significantly higher plasma malondialdehyde/thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (MDA/TBARS; p = 0.006) and lower plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC; p = 0.042) and vitamin C (0.020) was found in T2DM + DR versus T2DM-DR. The differential expression profile of solute carrier family 23 member 2 (SLC23A2) gene was seen in diabetics versus the CG (p = 0.001), and in T2DM + DR versus T2DM − DR (p < 0.05). The A/ω3 regime significantly reduced the pro-oxidants (p < 0.05) and augmented the antioxidants (p < 0.05). This follow-up study supports that a regular A/ω3 supplementation reduces the oxidative load and may serve as a dietary prophylaxis/adjunctive intervention for patients at risk of diabetic blindness.
Activity of Antioxidants from Crocus sativus L. Petals: Potential Preventive Effects towards Cardiovascular System
Authors: Zeka Keti , Marrazzo Pasquale , Micucci Matteo , Ruparelia Ketan C. , Arroo Randolph R. J. , Macchiarelli Guido , Annarita Nottola Stefania , Continenza Maria Adelaide , Chiarini Alberto , Angeloni Cristina , Hrelia Silvana , Budriesi Roberta
Published: November 2020

The petals of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus L.) are considered a waste material in saffron production, but may be a sustainable source of natural biologically active substances of nutraceutical interest. The aim of this work was to study the cardiovascular effects of kaempferol and crocin extracted from saffron petals. The antiarrhythmic, inotropic, and chronotropic effects of saffron petal extract (SPE), kaempferol, and crocin were evaluated through in vitro biological assays. The antioxidant activity of kaempferol and crocin was investigated through the 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay using rat cardiomyoblast cell line H9c2. The MTT assay was applied to assess the effects of kaempferol and crocin on cell viability. SPE showed weak negative inotropic and chronotropic intrinsic activities but a significant intrinsic activity on smooth muscle with a potency on the ileum greater than on the aorta: EC50 = 0.66 mg/mL versus EC50 = 1.45 mg/mL. Kaempferol and crocin showed a selective negative inotropic activity. In addition, kaempferol decreased the contraction induced by KCl (80 mM) in guinea pig aortic and ileal strips, while crocin had no effect. Furthermore, following oxidative stress, both crocin and kaempferol decreased intracellular ROS formation and increased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. The results indicate that SPE, a by-product of saffron cultivation, may represent a good source of phytochemicals with a potential application in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Thermodynamic, Economic and Sustainability Analysis of Solar Organic Rankine Cycle System with Zeotropic Working Fluid Mixtures for Micro-Cogeneration in Buildings
Authors: Yaïci Wahiba , Entchev Evgueniy , Talebizadehsardari Pouyan , Longo Michela
Published: November 2020

Globally there are several viable sources of renewable, low-temperature heat (below 130 °C), particularly solar energy, geothermal energy, and energy generated from industrial wastes. Increased exploitation of these low-temperature options has the definite potential of reducing fossil fuel consumption with its attendant very harmful greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers have universally identified the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) as a practicable and suitable system to generate electrical power from renewable sources based on its beneficial usage of volatile organic fluids as working fluids (WFs). In recent times, researchers have also shown a preference towards deployment of zeotropic mixtures as ORC WFs because of their capacity to improve thermodynamic performance of ORC systems, a feat enabled through the greater matching of the temperature profiles of the WF and the heat source/sink. This paper demonstrates the thermodynamic, economic and sustainability feasibility, and the notable advantages of using zeotropic mixtures as WFs through a simulation study of an ORC system. The study examines first the thermodynamic performance of ORC systems using zeotropic mixtures to generate electricity powered by a low-temperature solar heat source for building applications. A thermodynamic model is developed with a solar-driven ORC system both with and excluding a regenerator. Twelve zeotropic mixtures with varying compositions are evaluated and compared to identify the best combinations of mixtures that can yield high performance and high efficiency in their system cycles. The study also examines the effects of the volume flow ratio, and evaporation and condensation temperature glides on the ORC’s thermodynamic performance. Following a detailed analysis of each mixture, R245fa/propane and butane/propane are selected for parametric study to investigate the influence of operating parameters on the system’s efficiency and sustainability index. For zeotropic mixtures, results disclosed that there is an optimal composition range within which binary mixtures are inclined to perform more efficiently than the component pure fluids. In addition, a substantial enhancement in cycle efficiency can be obtained by a regenerative ORC, with cycle efficiency ranging between 3.1–9.8% and 8.6–17.4% for ORC both without and with regeneration, respectively. Results also revealed that exploiting zeotropic mixtures could enlarge the limitation experienced in selecting WFs for low-temperature solar ORCs. Moreover, a detailed economic with a sensitivity analysis of the solar ORC system was performed to evaluate the cost of the electricity and other economic criteria. The outcome of this investigation should be useful in the thermo-economic feasibility assessments of solar-driven ORC systems using working fluid mixtures to find the optimum operating range for maximum performance and minimum cost.
Fabrication of g-C3N4 Quantum Dots/MnCO3 Nanocomposite on Carbon Cloth for Flexible Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Liu Di , Hur Seung Hyun , Chung Jin Suk , Choi Won Mook
Published: November 2020

In this study, the nanocomposite of g-C3N4 quantum dots/MnCO3 on carbon cloth (q-MC//CC) is prepared via a simple hydrothermal method. The obtained q-MC//CC composite is employed for a flexible supercapacitor electrode. The g-C3N4 quantum dots could effectively improve the interface electrical conductivity and ion transportation of the MnCO3 electrode, which results in superior electrochemical performance. The q-MC//CC electrode delivers a high specific capacity of 1001 F·g−1 at a current density of 1 A·g−1 and a good cycling performance of 96% capacity retention after 5000 cycles. Moreover, an asymmetric flexible supercapacitor (ASC) is assembled with q-MC//CC and carbon cloth as a positive and negative electrode, respectively, which exhibits a high energy density of 27.1 Wh·kg−1 at a power density of 500 W·kg−1. In addition, the fabricated ASC device demonstrates the ability to power the light-emitting diode effectively under mechanical bending.
An Analysis of the Performance of Trolleybus Brushes Developed from Recycled Materials
Authors: Jakubas Adam , Chwastek Krzysztof , Cywiński Artur , Gnatowski Adam , Suchecki Łukasz
Published: November 2020

The paper presents an analysis of the performance of traction brushes produced from waste materials. Brushes are used to ensure good electrical contact between the rail and the pantograph. Slides are produced by the process of hot pressing, with the parameters of heating up to max 175 °C, at the minimal pressure value of 200 MPa. Some of the developed brushes with a high (55–60%) content of recycled materials are more durable and break-resistant than their commercial counterparts.
Focus-Adjustable Head Mounted Display with Off-Axis System
Authors: Seo So Hyun , Ryu Jae Myung , Choi Hojong
Published: November 2020

An off-axis system refers to an optical system in which the optical axis and the normal vector at the vertex of each surface do not match. An off-axis optical system can be applied in order to construct a thin and light optical system. In particular, the optical system used for a see-through head-mounted display (HMD) must be designed asymmetrically, with respect to the optical axis. Because the vision of a human is different for each individual, HMD requires focus adjustment. The effective focal length (EFL) of the optical system must be calculated to obtain the focus adjustment. However, the off-axis optical system cannot be calculated by conventional methods. In this study, the EFL was calculated by rotating the coordinates of the rays near the optical axis by the angle of reflection or refraction at the intersection of each surface, with the rays coinciding with the optical axis. The magnitude of movement of the micro-display for focus adjustment was obtained from the calculated EFL, for a see-through type HMD.
Femtosecond Optical Laser System with Spatiotemporal Stabilization for Pump-Probe Experiments at SACLA
Authors: Togashi Tadashi , Owada Shigeki , Kubota Yuya , Sueda Keiichi , Katayama Tetsuo , Tomizawa Hiromitsu , Yabuuchi Toshinori , Tono Kensuke , Yabashi Makina
Published: November 2020

We constructed a synchronized femtosecond optical laser system with spatiotemporal stabilization for pump-probe experiments at SPring-8 Angstrom Compact Free Electron Laser (SACLA). Stabilization of output power and pointing has been achieved with a small fluctuation level of a few percent by controlling conditions of temperature and air-flow in the optical paths. A feedback system using a balanced optical-microwave phase detector (BOMPD) has been successfully realized to reduce jitter down to 50 fs. We demonstrated the temporal stability with a time-resolved X-ray diffraction measurement and observed the coherent phonon oscillation of the photo-excited Bi without the post-processing using the timing monitor.
Lateral Capacitance–Voltage Method of NanoMOSFET for Detecting the Hot Carrier Injection
Authors: Atamuratov Atabek E. , Yusupov Ahmed , Atamuratova Zukhra A. , Chedjou Jean Chamberlain , Kyamakya Kyandoghere
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the dependence of the capacitance of lateral drain–substrate and source–substrate junctions on the linear size of the oxide trapped charge in MOSFET is simulated. It is shown that, at some range of linear sizes of the trapped charge, the capacitance of lateral junctions linearly depends on the linear size of the trapped charge. The dependence of the difference between drain–substrate and source–substrate capacitances on the linear size of trapped charges is also simulated. The revealed dependence can be used in measurements to estimate the linear size of oxide trapped charges induced by hot carrier injection, which can occur during MOSFET operation at defined conditions.
Block Data Record-Based Dynamic Encryption Key Generation Method for Security between Devices in Low Power Wireless Communication Environment of IoT
Authors: Cho Soohwan , Ko Deokyoon , Park Sooyoung
Published: November 2020

The Internet of Things uses low-power wireless communication for wireless connectivity and efficient energy. Low-power wireless communication is applied to IoT for wireless connection and efficient energy consumption in various areas such as wearable devices, smart homes, and power plants in order to send and receive data and control the environment. Security is becoming more important because the Internet of Things controls real physical systems. For the security of the Internet of Things, the encryption key is important to identify and authenticate devices that are trusted. The static encryption key method used for devices is likely to be calculated in reverse through the value of the key and is vulnerable to exploitation attacks. This requires the application of dynamic encryption keys that generate keys periodically. However, in the case of low-power wireless communication, the asynchronous communication method and the packet loss make it difficult to apply existing dynamic encryption key technologies. In this paper, we proposed dynamic encryption key method that applies the mechanism of the block chain to solve these problems. Based on the history of sensor data between devices, encryption keys are dynamically generated. The proposed method is to generate the same encryption key between devices with only one step of asynchronous communication considering packet loss. The proposed method is also validated in terms of availability and security in the Internet of Things low-power wireless communication.
Modular System-Level Modeling Method for the Susceptibility Prediction of Balise Information Transmission System
Authors: Zhang Dan , Wen Yinghong , Zhang Jinbao , Xiao Jianjun , Song Yali , Geng Qi
Published: November 2020

For high-speed train, balise transmission module (BTM) system is easily interfered with by other equipment of the train. This could cause the train to malfunction. Studying the electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS) of the BTM is very important for the performance and efficiency of the train. In this paper, a modular, system-level modeling method is proposed to predict the EMS of BTM systems. Based on object-oriented technology and a modular method, the BTM system is disassembled into several modules according to the electromagnetic characteristics of the whole system rather than the physical structure. All the modules are mutually independent, and the total EMS could be evaluated by the output of them. The modules of three key elements of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), i.e., sources, coupling paths, and sensitive equipment, are established by the theoretical method, full-wave simulation method, and black-box test method, respectively, and put into different layers. According to the functions of the BTM system, the EMS of BTM is given by analyzing the interrelation of input and output of modules. Results of the proposed model were verified by measurement.
Improvement and In-Situ Application of an Evaluation Method of Ballasted-Track Condition Using Digital 2-D Image Analysis
Authors: Park Bongsik , Choi Yeong-Tae , Kim Hyunmin
Published: November 2020

The advancement in digital image analysis methods has led to the development of various techniques, i.e., quantification of ballast gravel abrasion. In this study, the recognition rate of gravel aggregates has been significantly increased by improving the image analysis methods. The correlation between the track quality index (TQI), which is the standard deviation of vertical track irregularity and represents the condition of a high-speed railway, and the number of maintenance works was analyzed by performing an image analysis on the samples collected from various locations of a high-speed railway. The results revealed that roundness has the highest correlation with the TQI, whereas sphericity has the highest correlation with the number of maintenance works. The ballast replacement would be performed to improve maintenance efficiency if the abrasion of the ballast aggregates becomes approximately 10%.
A Study on Data Pre-Processing and Accident Prediction Modelling for Occupational Accident Analysis in the Construction Industry
Authors: Lee Jae Yun , Yoon Young Geun , Oh Tae Keun , Park Seunghee , Ryu Sang Il
Published: November 2020

In the construction industry, it is difficult to predict occupational accidents because various accident characteristics arise simultaneously and organically in different types of work. Furthermore, even when analyzing occupational accident data, it is difficult to deduce meaningful results because the data recorded by the incident investigator are qualitative and include a wide variety of data types and categories. Recently, numerous studies have used machine learning to analyze the correlations in such complex construction accident data; however, heretofore the focus has been on predicting severity with various variables, and several limitations remain when deriving the correlations between features from various variables. Thus, this paper proposes a data processing procedure that can efficiently manipulate accident data using optimal machine learning techniques and derive and systematize meaningful variables to rationally approach such complex problems. In particular, among the various variables, the most influential variables are derived through methods such as clustering, chi-square, Cramer’s V, and predictor importance; then, the analysis is simplified by optimally grouping the variables. For accident data with optimal variables and elements, a predictive model is constructed between variables, using a support vector machine and decision-tree-based ensemble; then, the correlation between the dependent and independent variables is analyzed through an alluvial flow diagram for several cases. Therefore, a new processing procedure has been introduced in data preprocessing and accident prediction modelling to overcome difficulties from complex and diverse construction occupational accident data, and effective accident prevention is possible by deriving correlations of construction accidents using this process.
Immobilization of Heavy Metals in Contaminated Soils—Performance Assessment in Conditions Similar to a Real Scenario
Authors: Correia Antonio A. S. , Matos Martim P. S. R. , Gomes Ana R. , Rasteiro Maria G.
Published: November 2020

Soil “health” is becoming an increasing concern of modern societies, namely, at the European level, considering its importance to the fields of food, clean water, biodiversity, and even climate change control. On the other hand, human activities are contributing more and more to induce contamination in soils, especially in industrialized societies. This experimental work studies different additives (carbon nanotubes, clay, and Portland cement) with the aim to evaluate their effect on heavy metals, HMs (lead, cooper, nickel, and zinc) immobilization in a contaminated soil in conditions similar to a real scenario. Suspension adsorption tests (fluid-like condition) were performed aiming to supply preliminary information about the adsorption capacity of the soil towards the different HMs tested, while percolation tests (solid-like conditions) were performed aiming to evaluate the HMs immobilization by different additives in conditions similar to a real situation of soil contamination. Results showed that soil particles alone were able to retain considerable amounts of HMs (especially Pb and Cu) which is linked to their fine grain size and the soil high organic matter content. In conditions of good dispersion of the additives, addition of carbon nanotubes or clay can rise the HMs adsorption, except in the case of Zn2+ due to its low electronegativity and high mobility. Moreover, the addition of cement to the soil showed a high capacity to immobilize the HMs which is due to the chemical fixation of the HMs to binder hydration products. In this case, HMs immobilization comes associated with a soil stabilization strategy. The results allow to conclude that the additives, carbon nanotubes and clay, have the potential to minimize HMs mobility in contaminated soils and can be a valid alternative to the usual additive, Portland cement, when tested in conditions similar to a real on-site situation, if the objective is not to induce also soil stabilization, for instance, to enable its use for construction purposes. The results obtained can help designers and decision-makers in the choice of the best materials to remediate HMs contaminated soils.