bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraction of Uronic Acid From Sargassum crassifolium and Its Feeding Effects On The Eggs Production and Quality of Lohmann Chicken Eggs
Authors: Kereh Veybe Gresje , Untu Ivonne Maria , Najoan Marie , Lumi T.
Published: October 2020

ABSTRACTThe use of antibiotics in chicken feed is currently banned because it can cause resistance to pathogenic bacteria and cause residues in products. This study aimed to see the effect of drinking water containing uronic acid extracted from Sargassum crassifolium (S. crassifolium) on the physical and chemical quality of Lohmann chicken eggs. One hundred and twenty laying hens were divided into 2 groups: (1) chickens given commercial feed containing antibiotics and (2) feed without additional antibiotics. The chickens were randomly assigned to one of the 5 brown seaweed supplementation treatments in drinking water A1=0.0% S.crassifolium (control); A2=2.5% S.crassifolium; A3=5.0% S.crassifolium; A4=7.5% S.crassifolium; A5=10.0% S.crassifolium. The study used a completely randomized factorial design of 5 treatments, 2 factors, and 3 replications. Each replication consisted of 6 heads of laying hens. There were no differences between treatments on the performance of laying hens (egg production, egg weight, egg mass, feed conversion); physical quality (eggshell, egg yolk, egg white, shell thickness, egg yolk, Haugh unit, egg index) and chemistry (superoxide dismutase production, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and Lohmann chicken egg cholesterol) but there was a difference in feed intake. The uronic acid extracted from S. crassifolium has not been able to increase the production and quality of Lohmann chicken eggs.Keywords: lohmann chicken, quality of eggs, Sargassum crassifolium, uronic acid
Uji Resistensi Terhadap Beberapa Antibiotika pada Escherichia coli yang Diisolasi dari Kucing di Klinik Hewan Kota Bogor
Authors: Yaddi Yamin , Safika Safika , Pasaribu Fachriyan Hasmi
Published: October 2020

ABSTRAKPermasalahan resistensi Antibiotika pada hewan kesayangan menjadi kendala kesehatan hewan di seluruh dunia. World Health Organisation (WHO) menyebutkan bahwa pada masa mendatang resistensi antibiotika akan menjadi tantangan yang terbesar dalam dunia kesehatan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengukur tingkat resistensi antibiotika terhadap Escherichia coli yang diisolasi dari kucing pada klinik hewan di Kota Bogor. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa resistensi Escherichia coli tertinggi terjadi pada golongan β-laktam (ampisilin 66% dan amoksisilin 60%) yang diikuti oleh golongan tetrasiklin (oksitetrasiklin 54% dan dosisiklin 24%), serta golongan kuinolon (enrofloksasin 38% dan ciprofloksasin 28%). Hasil dari penelitian ini diharapkan dapat menjadi pertimbangan medis bagi praktisi hewan kesayangan dalam penggunaan antibiotika.Kata Kunci: Escherichia coli, klinik hewan, kucing, resistensi antibiotikaABSTRACTThe problem of antibiotic resistance in pets is obstacles to animal health throughout the world. World Health Organization (WHO) states that in the future, antibiotic resistance will become the biggest challenge in the health concern. This study aims to measure the level of Escherichia coli resistance to antibiotics which is isolated from cats on veterinary clinics in Bogor City. The results showed that the highest resistance of Escherichia coli occurred in the β-lactam group (ampicillin 66% and amoxicillin 60%) followed by tetracycline (oxytetracycline 54% and doxycycline 24%), and quinolone group (enrofloxacin 38% and ciprofloxacin 28%). This study is expected to become medical considerations for pet practitioners in the use of antibiotics.Keywords: animal clinic, antibiotic resistance, cats, Escherichia coli
Hubungan Bobot Hidup dan Bobot Karkas Sapi Madura
Authors: Umar Malikah , Selvia Nurlaila Selvia , Purdiyanto Joko
Published: October 2020

ASBTRAKKarkas merupakan bagian dari ternak yang telah disembelih yang terdiri dari daging dan tulang, tanpa kepala, kaki, kulit dan jeroan. Berat karkas yang diperoleh sangat dipengaruhi oleh perlakuan ternak sebelum dipotong.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan bobot hidup terhadap bobot karkas, rasio karkas sapi madura terhadap bobot hidupnya, dan memperoleh formulasi pendugaan bobot karkas berdasarkan bobot hidup. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Kecamatan Waru Kabupaten Pamekasan dengan menggunakan 50 ekor sapi yang dipotong di tempat pemotongan tersebut. Metode penelitian menggunakan metode observasi. Variabel yang diukur pada penelitian ini meliputi bobot hidup dan bobot karkas sapi madura. Teknik pengambilan data dilakukan dengan cara menimbang sapi yang akan menjadi sampel untuk memperoleh bobot hidup. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan analisis persamaan regresi linier dan korelasi dengan menggunakan microsoft excel for Windows 2010. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa bobot hidup memiliki hubungan yang erat dengan bobot karkasnya dengan nilai koefisien determinasi sebesar 0.889 dan persamaan regresi linier y = 0,4716x + 12,295 dengan bobot karkas mencapai 143,0 kg (52,14%) dengan bobot hidup rata-rata 275 kg.  Bobot hidup dapat digunakan untuk memprediksi bobot karkas pada sapi Madura.Kata Kunci:  bobot karkas, bobot hidup, estimasi, sapi madura  ABSTRACTThe carcass is part of cattle that have been slaughtered consisting of meat and bones, without head, legs, skin, and viscera. The carcass weight obtained is strongly influenced by the treatment of livestock before slaughter. This study aims to determine the relationship of life weight to carcass weight, the ratio of the carcass to live weight, and to obtain a formulation of carcass weight estimation based on the life weight of madura cattle. The study was conducted in Waru District Pamekasan Regency using 50 madura cattle. The survey method was used in this study. The variables measured in this study include life weight and carcass weight of Madura cattle. For data collection, cattle were weighed to obtain life weight.  Data were analyzed using linear regression equations and correlations using the Microsoft Excel for Windows 2010.  The results showed that life weight had a close relation with carcass weight with a coefficient of determination of 0.889 and linear regression equation y = 0.4716x + 12.295 on carcass weight reached 143.0 kg (52.14%) with an average body weight of 275. Live weight can be used to predict carcass weight in Madura cattle.Keywords: carcass weight, estimation, life weight, madura cattle
Real-Time Implementation of a New MPPT Control Method for a DC-DC Boost Converter Used in a PEM Fuel Cell Power System
Authors: Derbeli Mohamed , Barambones Oscar , Silaa Mohammed Yousri , Napole Cristian
Published: October 2020

Polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells demonstrate potential as a comprehensive and general alternative to fossil fuel. They are also considered to be the energy source of the twenty-first century. However, fuel cell systems have non-linear output characteristics because of their input variations, which causes a significant loss in the overall system output. Thus, aiming to optimize their outputs, fuel cells are usually coupled with a controlled electronic actuator (DC-DC boost converter) that offers highly regulated output voltage. High-order sliding mode (HOSM) control has been effectively used for power electronic converters due to its high tracking accuracy, design simplicity, and robustness. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel maximum power point tracking (MPPT) method based on a combination of reference current estimator (RCE) and high-order prescribed convergence law (HO-PCL) for a PEM fuel cell power system. The proposed MPPT method is implemented practically on a hardware 360W FC-42/HLC evaluation kit. The obtained experimental results demonstrate the success of the proposed method in extracting the maximum power from the fuel cell with high tracking performance.
Selection of Habanero Pepper F1 Hybrids (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) at the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico with a High Potential for Different Markets
Authors: Muñoz-Ramírez Liliana S. , Peña-Yam Laura P. , Álvarez-Gil Martha A. , Iglesias-Andreu Lourdes G. , Avilés-Viñas Susana A. , Canto-Flick Adriana , Guzmán-Antonio Adolfo , Santana-Buzzy Nancy
Published: October 2020

This study evaluated 29 F1 lines and the 11 genotypes of habanero peppers used in the crossbreeding program developed by the Scientific Research Center of Yucatan, México. A randomized complete block design with four repetitions was used. Eight plants of each of the genotypes were studied per block. A total of 22 qualitative and 18 quantitative descriptors established in the manuals of the International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (IPGRI) and the National Service for Seed Inspection and Certification (SNICS) was used. The multiple correspondence analysis of the qualitative traits explained 38.2% of the total variability. The trait that contributed the most to the qualitative variability identified was the presence of anthocyanins in the node. Principal component analysis showed that the first two axes explained 85.1% of the total variability and that capsaicin content and fruit pericarp thickness were the major contributors to the variation recorded. Based on these results, four F1 hybrids of habanero pepper were selected because of their promising traits for the different markets, i.e., high productive potential and/or high pungency. These traits are described in the section on Results.
Packaging in a High O2 or Air Atmospheres and in Microperforated Films Effects on Quality of Button Mushrooms Stored at Room Temperature
Authors: Pogorzelska-Nowicka Ewelina , Hanula Monika , Wojtasik-Kalinowska Iwona , Stelmasiak Adrian , Zalewska Magdalena , Półtorak Andrzej , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: October 2020

Cold conditions are obligatory for mushrooms storage. However, in most cases, the cold chain is interrupted at various stages. Thus, is of great importance to propose a packaging system capable of inhibiting the detrimental effect of high temperature on mushrooms’ quality. The study evaluates the effect of high oxygen atmosphere (80% O2) in conjunction with films of different levels of microperforations (polysulfon (PSF) films, low: PSF_1000, PSF_2000; medium: PSF_3500; and high: PSF_7000) on antioxidant capacity, volatile compounds profile, sensory acceptance, and quality of mushrooms stored at 20 °C. Results showed that high O2 atmosphere inhibits the respiration rate of mushrooms. Application of high O2 atmosphere and film of high level of microperforations preserved desired color and profile of volatile compounds, ensured consumers color and overall acceptance. In turn, the single effect of the perforation level of the applied film was observed for antioxidant capacity, weight loss, vitamin C, malonylodialdehyde (MDA), and phenolics content. Packaging in low microperforated films led to the least amount of phenolics, highest MDA content, and poor antioxidant capacity in mushrooms. In turn, packaging with films of a medium level of perforation contributed to the highest vitamin C and phenolic content. There was no effect of treatment on texture, maturity index, protein content, and percentage of open capped mushrooms.
Mapping of the Waxy Bloom Gene in ‘Black Jewel’ in a Parental Linkage Map of ‘Black Jewel’ × ‘Glen Ample’ (Rubus) Interspecific Population
Authors: Pinczinger Dora , Reth Marcel von , Keilwagen Jens , Berner Thomas , Peil Andreas , Flachowsky Henryk , Emeriewen Ofere Francis
Published: October 2020

Black and red raspberries (Rubus occidentalis L. and Rubus idaeus L.) are the prominent members of the genus Rubus (Rosaceae family). Breeding programs coupled with the low costs of high-throughput sequencing have led to a reservoir of data that have improved our understanding of various characteristics of Rubus and facilitated the mapping of different traits. Gene B controls the waxy bloom, a clearly visible epicuticular wax on canes. The potential effects of this trait on resistance/susceptibility to cane diseases in conjunction with other morphological factors are not fully studied. Previous studies suggested that gene H, which controls cane pubescence, is closely associated with gene B. Here, we used tunable genotyping-by-sequencing technology to identify the de novo SNPs of R. occidentalis and R. idaeus using an interspecific population that segregates for the waxy bloom phenotype. We created linkage maps of both species and mapped the identified SNPs to the seven chromosomes (Ro01–Ro07) of Rubus. Importantly, we report, for the first time, the mapping of gene B to chromosome 2 of R. occidentalis using a genetic map consisting of 443 markers spanning 479.76 cM. We observed the poor transferability of R. idaeus SSRs to R. occidentalis and discrepancies in their previously reported chromosome locations.
Postharvest Treatments Improve Quality of Cut Peony Flowers
Authors: Rabiza-Świder Julita , Skutnik Ewa , Jędrzejuk Agata , Łukaszewska Aleksandra
Published: October 2020

Peony is one of the most important ornamental plants in the international flower market, but has a relatively short vase life in water. This study tested the effects of 8-hydroxyquinoline citrate (8-HQC) and nanosilver (NS) in combination with sucrose, as well as two commercial preservatives, on the longevity and some physiological and biochemical aspects of senescence of cut flowers of 14 cultivars. Responses varied both by cultivar and treatment. The preservatives extended the vase life in only five cultivars; however, in nine cultivars, preservatives increased the flower diameter and improved the general flower appearance. Blockages in xylem vessels started to appear soon after harvest. Both NS and 8-HQC with sucrose prevented tylose formation, while bacterial blockages were reduced only by the NS solution. Reduction in stem blockages did not translate into better water balance or flower longevity. The highest carbohydrate accumulation in petals was observed in the NS solution. Preservatives mitigated the rise in free amino acids, including free proline. They did not prevent an increase in H2O2 content but flowers in preservatives generally had higher catalase activity than in the control. As solutions with NS produced comparable or even better results than 8-HQC, we recommend the latter as a component of a preservative for cut peony flowers. However, cultivar-specific responses indicate that postharvest treatments must be individually tailored to each cultivar.
The Onset of Tacrolimus Biosynthesis in Streptomyces tsukubaensis Is Dependent on the Intracellular Redox Status
Authors: Pires Sílvia D. S. , Oliveira Rute , Moradas-Ferreira Pedro , V. Mendes Marta
Published: October 2020

The oxidative stress response is a key mechanism that microorganisms have to adapt to changeling environmental conditions. Adaptation is achieved by a fine-tuned molecular response that extends its influence to primary and secondary metabolism. In the past, the role of the intracellular redox status in the biosynthesis of tacrolimus in Streptomyces tsukubaensis has been briefly acknowledged. Here, we investigate the impact of the oxidative stress response on tacrolimus biosynthesis in S. tsukubaensis. Physiological characterization of S. tsukubaensis showed that the onset of tacrolimus biosynthesis coincided with the induction of catalase activity. In addition, tacrolimus displays antioxidant properties and thus a controlled redox environment would be beneficial for its biosynthesis. In addition, S. tsukubaensis ∆ahpC strain, a strain defective in the H2O2-scavenging enzyme AhpC, showed increased production of tacrolimus. Proteomic and transcriptomic studies revealed that the tacrolimus over-production phenotype was correlated with a metabolic rewiring leading to increased availability of tacrolimus biosynthetic precursors. Altogether, our results suggest that the carbon source, mainly used for cell growth, can trigger the production of tacrolimus by modulating the oxidative metabolism to favour a low oxidizing intracellular environment and redirecting the metabolic flux towards the increase availability of biosynthetic precursors.
A Qualitative Study of Pregnant Women’s Perspectives on Antibiotic Use for Mom and Child: Implications for Developing Tailored Health Education Interventions
Authors: Chen Lynn Y. , Flood-Grady Elizabeth , Hentschel Austen , Wright Lauren , Mkuu Rahma , Young Alyson , Francois Magda , Neu Josef , Parker Leslie A. , Shenkman Elizabeth , Krieger Janice L. , Lemas Dominick J.
Published: October 2020

The overutilization of antibiotics during pregnancy and early life are associated with adverse health outcomes for mothers and infants. In this study, we explored pregnant women’s opinions and concerns of antibiotics and how perceptions may affect their health-related decision-making. We conducted 18 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with pregnant women and used the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a framework to analyze the data. We found that mothers generally understood the benefits of antibiotics and were aware that antibiotics are clinically effective for treating bacterial infections. Importantly, perceived barriers related to antibiotic use included concerns regarding the impact of antibiotics on breastfeeding efficacy, microbial health, and societal factors such as antimicrobial resistance. The prescription of antibiotics by a healthcare provider was a cue to action for women, as they trusted providers to recommend medications that were safe for them and their infants. Overall, mothers shared that receiving education on the effects of antibiotics would improve their self-efficacy and decision-making surrounding the use of antibiotics for treating illness. Implications for tailored perinatal health education interventions to enhance antibiotic use, knowledge, and decision-making are discussed.
Investigation of Outbreaks of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase-Producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae in Three Neonatal Intensive Care Units Using Whole Genome Sequencing
Authors: Frenk Sammy , Rakovitsky Nadya , Temkin Elizabeth , Schechner Vered , Cohen Regev , Kloyzner Bat Sheva , Schwaber Mitchell J. , Solter Ester , Cohen Shoshana , Stepansky Sarit , Carmeli Yehuda
Published: October 2020

Infections caused by extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL-KP) are on a constant rise and are a noted cause of outbreaks in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). We used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to investigate the epidemiology of consecutive and overlapping outbreaks caused by ESBL-KP in NICUs in three hospitals in close proximity. Clonality of 43 ESBL-KP isolates from 40 patients was determined by BOX-PCR. Short-read sequencing was performed on representative isolates from each clone. The dominant clones from each NICU were sequenced using long-read sequencing. Bioinformatics methods were used to define multilocus sequence type (MLST), analyze plasmid content, resistomes, and virulence factors. In each NICU, we found a unique dominant clone (ST985, ST37, and ST35), each belonging to a distinct sequence type (ST), as well as satellite clones. A satellite strain in NICU-2 (ST35) was the dominant strain in NICU-3, where it was isolated four weeks later, suggesting transmission. NICU-1- and NICU-2-dominant strains had blaCTX-M-15 carried on a similar transposable element (Tn3-ISEcp1) but at different locations: on a plasmid and on the chromosome, respectively. We concluded that the overlapping ESBL-KP outbreaks were a combination of clonal transmission within NICUs, possible transposable element transmission between NICUs, and repeated importation of ESBL-KP from the community.
Design and Synthesis of Small Molecules as Potent Staphylococcus aureus Sortase A Inhibitors
Authors: Ha Min Woo , Yi Sung Wook , Paek Seung-Mann
Published: October 2020

The widespread and uncontrollable emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, has promoted a wave of efforts to discover a new generation of antibiotics that prevent or treat bacterial infections neither as bactericides nor bacteriostats. Due to its crucial role in virulence and its nonessentiality in bacterial survival, sortase A has been considered as a great target for new antibiotics. Sortase A inhibitors have emerged as promising alternative antivirulence agents against bacteria. Herein, the structural and preparative aspects of some small synthetic organic compounds that block the pathogenic action of sortase A have been described.
Antioxidant, Nutraceutical Properties, and Fluorescence Spectral Profiles of Bee Pollen Samples from Different Botanical Origins
Authors: Barbieri Daniele , Gabriele Morena , Summa Martina , Colosimo Raffaele , Leonardi Donatella , Domenici Valentina , Pucci Laura
Published: October 2020

Bee pollen is made by honey bees (Apis Mellifera) from the pollen of plants and flowers and represents an apiary product enriched in essential amino acids, polyphenols, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. This study investigated the botanical origin, micronutrient profile, and antioxidant activity of bee pollen samples (n = 10) harvested in Lucca and Massa Carrara (Tuscany, Italy) between 2016 and 2017. The palynological analysis showed that bee pollen samples were composed of nine botanical families. Front-face fluorescence spectroscopy was performed on bee pollen samples in bulk, without any treatment, and in ethanol extracts to determine the characteristic fluorescent profile and, to identify the main chemical compounds with biological activity. The main chemical compounds detected were polyphenols (mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids), hydro-soluble vitamins (B2, B3, B6, and B9), amino acids, and pigments. Furthermore, the antioxidant activity was investigated, and one of the two Viburnum pollens resulted in the highest polyphenols and flavonoids content (20.15 ± 0.15 mg GAE/g fw and 23.46 ± 0.08 mg CE/g fw, respectively). However, Prunus and Eucalyptus families showed the highest in vitro (190.27 ± 8.30 µmol Fe2+/g) and ex vivo (54.61 ± 8.51 CAA unit) antioxidant capacity, respectively. These results suggested that Tuscan bee pollen, depending on the botanical family, is rich in essential nutrients and potential nutraceutical product.
A Mathematical Model for the Scheduling of Virtual Microgrids Topology into an Active Distribution Network
Authors: García-Muñoz Fernando , Díaz-González Francisco , Corchero Cristina
Published: October 2020

This article presents a method based on a mathematical optimization model for the scheduling operation of a distribution network (DN). The contribution of the proposed method is that it permits the configuration and operation of a DN as a set of virtual microgrids with a high penetration level of distributed generation (DG) and battery energy storage systems (BESS). The topology of such virtual microgrids are modulated in time in response to grid failures, thus minimizing load curtailment, and maximizing local renewable resource and storage utilization as well. The formulation provides the load reduced by bus to balance the system at every hour and the global probability to present energy not supplied (ENS). Furthermore, for every bus, a flexibility load response range is considered to avoid its total load curtailment for small load reductions. The model has been constructed considering a linear version of the AC optimal power flow (OPF) constraints extended for multiple periods, and it has been tested in a modified version of the IEEE 33-bus radial distribution system considering four different scenarios of 72 h, where the global energy curtailment has been 27.9% without demand-side response (DSR) and 10.4% considering a 30% of flexibility load response. Every scenario execution takes less than a minute, making it appropriate for distribution system operational planning.
Pattern Classification Approaches for Breast Cancer Identification via MRI: State-Of-The-Art and Vision for the Future
Authors: Yin Xiao-Xia , Yin Lihua , Hadjiloucas Sillas
Published: October 2020

Mining algorithms for Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (DCE-MRI) of breast tissue are discussed. The algorithms are based on recent advances in multi-dimensional signal processing and aim to advance current state-of-the-art computer-aided detection and analysis of breast tumours when these are observed at various states of development. The topics discussed include image feature extraction, information fusion using radiomics, multi-parametric computer-aided classification and diagnosis using information fusion of tensorial datasets as well as Clifford algebra based classification approaches and convolutional neural network deep learning methodologies. The discussion also extends to semi-supervised deep learning and self-supervised strategies as well as generative adversarial networks and algorithms using generated confrontational learning approaches. In order to address the problem of weakly labelled tumour images, generative adversarial deep learning strategies are considered for the classification of different tumour types. The proposed data fusion approaches provide a novel Artificial Intelligence (AI) based framework for more robust image registration that can potentially advance the early identification of heterogeneous tumour types, even when the associated imaged organs are registered as separate entities embedded in more complex geometric spaces. Finally, the general structure of a high-dimensional medical imaging analysis platform that is based on multi-task detection and learning is proposed as a way forward. The proposed algorithm makes use of novel loss functions that form the building blocks for a generated confrontation learning methodology that can be used for tensorial DCE-MRI. Since some of the approaches discussed are also based on time-lapse imaging, conclusions on the rate of proliferation of the disease can be made possible. The proposed framework can potentially reduce the costs associated with the interpretation of medical images by providing automated, faster and more consistent diagnosis.
Mining Shift Work Operation from Event Logs
Authors: Utama Nur Ichsan , Sutrisnowati Riska Asriana , Kamal Imam Mustafa , Bae Hyerim , Park You-Jin
Published: October 2020

Event logs are records of events that are generally used in process mining to determine the manner in which various processes are practically implemented. Previous studies on process mining attempted to combine the results based on different perspectives such as control flow, data, performance, and resources (organizational) to create a simulation model. This study focuses on the resource perspective. A prior study from the resource perspective focused on clustering the resources into organizational units. Implementing the results of the above study in a simulation model will yield inaccurate results because the resources are assumed to always be available if no task is performed. In a practical scenario, resources (particularly humans) tend to work based on shifts. Thus, we propose mining the shift work operation of resources from event logs to tackle this issue. We utilized a self-organizing map and k-means clustering to incorporate the shift work information from the event logs into the simulation model. Moreover, we introduce a distance function and weight-centroid updating rule in the clustering technique to realize our objective. We conducted extensive experiments with artificial data sets to assess the effectiveness of the proposed method. The simulation shows that introducing the shift work operation time of resources can yield more accurate results. Furthermore, the proposed distance function can capture the shift work operation of the resources more precisely compared with the general distance function.
Automation and Robotization of Underground Mining in Poland
Authors: Bołoz Łukasz , Biały Witold
Published: October 2020

The article concerns the condition of automation and robotization of underground mining in Poland. Attention has been focused on the specific character of the mining industry. This limits the possibility of using robotization, and sometimes even the mechanization of certain processes. In recent years, robotic and automated machines and machine system solutions have been developed and applied in Poland. They are autonomous to a various degree, depending on the branch. The type of automation and artificial intelligence depends on the specific use. Some examples presently being used include the MIKRUS automated longwall system and autonomous device(s) for breaking rocks or mining rescue work. In Poland, fully automated plow systems produced by foreign companies are also used. Companies in Poland and international research centers are also actively engaged in the development of underwater and space mining. where robotization is of key importance. Research is also being undertaken by Robotics in Mining, euRobotics and PERASPERA as well as Space Mining Conference.
New Sensor Based on Magnetic Fields for Monitoring the Concentration of Organic Fertilisers in Fertigation Systems
Authors: Basterrechea Daniel A. , Parra Lorena , Botella-Campos Marta , Lloret Jaime , Mauri Pedro V.
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we test three prototypes with different characteristics for controlling the quantity of organic fertiliser in the agricultural irrigation system. We use 0.4 mm of copper diameter, distributing in different layers, maintaining the relation of 40 spires for powered coil and 80 for the induced coil. Moreover, we develop sensors with 8, 4, and 2 layers of copper. The coils are powered by a sine wave of 3.3 V peak to peak, and the other part is induced. To verify the functioning of this sensor, we perform several simulations with COMSOL Multiphysics to verify the magnetic field created around the powered coil, as well as the electric field, followed by a series of tests, using six samples between the 0 g/L and 20 g/L of organic fertiliser, and measure their conductivity. First, we find the working frequency doing a sweep for each prototype and four configurations. In this case, for all samples, making a sweep between 10 kHz and 300 kHz. We obtained that in prototype 1 (P1) (coil with 8 layers) the working frequency is around 100 kHz, in P2 (coil with 4 layers) around 110 kHz, and for P3 (coil with 2 layers) around 140 kHz. Then, we calibrate the prototypes measuring the six samples at four different configurations for each sensor to evaluate the possible variances. Likewise, the measures were taken in triplicate to reduce the possible errors. The obtained results show that the maximum difference of induced voltage between the lowest and the highest concentration is for the P2/configuration 4 with 1.84 V. Likewise, we have obtained an optimum correlation of 0.997. Then, we use the other three samples to verify the optimum functioning of the obtained calibrates. Moreover, the ANOVA simple procedure is applied to the data of all prototypes, in the working frequency of each configuration, to verify the significant difference between the values. The obtained results indicate that there is a significate difference between the average of concentration (g/L) and the induced voltage, and another with a level of 5% of significance. Finally, we compare all of the tested prototypes and configurations, and have determined that prototype three with configuration 1 is the best device to be used as a fertiliser sensor in water.
A Review of Validation Methods for the Intracranial Response of FEHM to Blunt Impacts
Authors: McGill K. , Teixeira-Dias F. , Callanan A.
Published: October 2020

The following is a review of the processes currently employed when validating the intracranial response of Finite Element Head Models (FEHM) against blunt impacts. The authors aim to collate existing validation tools, their applications and findings on their effectiveness to aid researchers in the validation of future FEHM and potential efforts in improving procedures. In this vain, publications providing experimental data on the intracranial pressure, relative brain displacement and brain strain responses to impacts in human subjects are surveyed and key data are summarised. This includes cases that have previously been used in FEHM validation and alternatives with similar potential uses. The processes employed to replicate impact conditions and the resulting head motion are reviewed, as are the analytical techniques used to judge the validity of the models. Finally, publications exploring the validation process and factors affecting it are critically discussed. Reviewing FEHM validation in this way highlights the lack of a single best practice, or an obvious solution to create one using the tools currently available. There is clear scope to improve the validation process of FEHM, and the data available to achieve this. By collecting information from existing publications, it is hoped this review can help guide such developments and provide a point of reference for researchers looking to validate or investigate FEHM in the future, enabling them to make informed choices about the simulation of impacts, how they are generated numerically and the factors considered during output assessment, whilst being aware of potential limitations in the process.
Continuous Damping Control for Rollover Prevention with Optimal Distribution Strategy of Damping Force
Authors: Zhang Xu , Song Chuanxue , Song Shixin , Cao Jingwei , Wang Da , Qi Chunyang , Ma Zhinan , Xiao Feng
Published: October 2020

Vehicle rollover has always been a highly dangerous condition that can cause severe traffic casualties. In this work, a 14-degree-of-freedom vehicle model in MATLAB/Simulink is constructed with the vehicle suspension system dynamics. The validity of the model is verified by comparing with the CarSim model. Then an optimal distribution of damping force strategy with continuous damping control is proposed by combining the traditional lateral load transfer ratio control with optimized equations of suspension damping force. The damping force compensation of the left and right sides is the core of the optimal distribution of damping force strategy. The effectiveness and optimization effect of the optimal distribution of damping force strategy is proved by the simulation results under the fishhook and crosswind tests. The result shows that continuous damping control has evident control effects on vehicle rollover compared with passive suspension. The optimal distribution of the damping force strategy with continuous damping control has a great better performance than traditional continuous damping control, and it provides a certain assistance to vehicle handling stability.
Zero-Shot Recognition Enhancement by Distance-Weighted Contextual Inference
Authors: Chang Doo Soo , Cho Gun Hee , Choi Yong Suk
Published: October 2020

Zero-shot recognition (ZSR) aims to perform visual classification by category in the absence of training samples. The focus in most traditional ZSR models is using semantic knowledge about familiar categories to represent unfamiliar categories with only the visual appearance of an unseen object. In this research, we consider not only visual information but context to enhance the classifier’s cognitive ability in a multi-object scene. We propose a novel method, contextual inference, that uses external resources such as knowledge graphs and semantic embedding spaces to obtain similarity measures between an unseen object and its surrounding objects. Using the intuition that close contexts involve more related associations than distant ones, distance weighting is applied to each piece of surrounding information with a newly defined distance calculation formula. We integrated contextual inference into traditional ZSR models to calibrate their visual predictions, and performed extensive experiments on two different datasets for comparative evaluations. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our method through significant enhancements in performance.
Assessment of Fibrinogen Macromolecules Interaction with Red Blood Cells Membrane by Means of Laser Aggregometry, Flow Cytometry, and Optical Tweezers Combined with Microfluidics
Authors: Semenov Alexey N. , Lugovtsov Andrei E. , Shirshin Evgeny A. , Yakimov Boris P. , Ermolinskiy Petr B. , Bikmulina Polina Y. , Kudryavtsev Denis S. , Timashev Peter S. , Muravyov Alexei V. , Wagner Christian , Shin Sehyun , Priezzhev Alexander V.
Published: October 2020

An elevated concentration of fibrinogen in blood is a significant risk factor during many pathological diseases, as it leads to an increase in red blood cells (RBC) aggregation, resulting in hemorheological disorders. Despite the biomedical importance, the mechanisms of fibrinogen-induced RBC aggregation are still debatable. One of the discussed models is the non-specific adsorption of fibrinogen macromolecules onto the RBC membrane, leading to the cells bridging in aggregates. However, recent works point to the specific character of the interaction between fibrinogen and the RBC membrane. Fibrinogen is the major physiological ligand of glycoproteins receptors IIbIIIa (GPIIbIIIa or αIIββ3 or CD41/CD61). Inhibitors of GPIIbIIIa are widely used in clinics for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases as antiplatelets agents preventing the platelets’ aggregation. However, the effects of GPIIbIIIa inhibition on RBC aggregation are not sufficiently well studied. The objective of the present work was the complex multimodal in vitro study of the interaction between fibrinogen and the RBC membrane, revealing the role of GPIIbIIIa in the specificity of binding of fibrinogen by the RBC membrane and its involvement in the cells’ aggregation process. We demonstrate that GPIIbIIIa inhibition leads to a significant decrease in the adsorption of fibrinogen macromolecules onto the membrane, resulting in the reduction of RBC aggregation. We show that the mechanisms underlying these effects are governed by a decrease in the bridging components of RBC aggregation forces.
Interface of Phospholipase Activity, Immune Cell Function, and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Schilke Robert M. , Blackburn Cassidy M. R. , Bamgbose Temitayo T. , Woolard Matthew D.
Published: October 2020

Phospholipases are a family of lipid-altering enzymes that can either reduce or increase bioactive lipid levels. Bioactive lipids elicit signaling responses, activate transcription factors, promote G-coupled-protein activity, and modulate membrane fluidity, which mediates cellular function. Phospholipases and the bioactive lipids they produce are important regulators of immune cell activity, dictating both pro-inflammatory and pro-resolving activity. During atherosclerosis, pro-inflammatory and pro-resolving activities govern atherosclerosis progression and regression, respectively. This review will look at the interface of phospholipase activity, immune cell function, and atherosclerosis.
Vis-Responsive Copper-Modified Titania for Decomposition of Organic Compounds and Microorganisms
Authors: Endo-Kimura Maya , Karabiyik Bariş , Wang Kunlei , Wei Zhishun , Ohtani Bunsho , Markowska-Szczupak Agata , Kowalska Ewa
Published: October 2020

Seven commercial titania (titanium(IV) oxide; TiO2) powders with different structural properties and crystalline compositions (anatase/rutile) were modified with copper by two variants of a photodeposition method, i.e., methanol dehydrogenation and water oxidation. The samples were characterized by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Although zero-valent copper was deposited on the surface of titania, oxidized forms of copper, post-formed in ambient conditions, were also detected in dried samples. All samples could absorb visible light (vis), due to localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of zero-valent copper and by other copper species, including Cu2O, CuO and CuxO (x:1-2). The photocatalytic activities of samples were investigated under both ultraviolet (UV) and visible light irradiation (>450 nm) for oxidative decomposition of acetic acid. It was found that titania modification with copper significantly enhanced the photocatalytic activity, especially for anatase samples. The prolonged irradiation (from 1 to 5 h) during samples’ preparation resulted in aggregation of copper deposits, thus being detrimental for vis activity. It is proposed that oxidized forms of copper are more active under vis irradiation than plasmonic one. Antimicrobial properties against bacteria (Escherichia coli) and fungi (Aspergillus niger) under vis irradiation and in the dark confirmed that Cu/TiO2 exhibits a high antibacterial effect, mainly due to the intrinsic activity of copper species.
Rhodium Nanoparticles Stabilized by PEG-Tagged Imidazolium Salts as Recyclable Catalysts for the Hydrosilylation of Internal Alkynes and the Reduction of Nitroarenes
Authors: Fernández Guillem , Pleixats Roser
Published: October 2020

PEGylated imidazolium (bromide and tetrafluoroborate) and tris-imidazolium (bromide) salts containing triazole linkers have been used as stabilizers for the preparation of water-soluble rhodium(0) nanoparticles by reduction of rhodium trichloride with sodium borohydride in water at room temperature. The nanomaterials have been characterized (Transmission Electron Microscopy, Electron Diffraction, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy). They proved to be efficient and recyclable catalysts for the stereoselective hydrosilylation of internal alkynes, in the presence or absence of solvent, and in the reduction of nitroarenes to anilines with ammonia-borane as hydrogen donor in aqueous medium (1:4 tetrahydrofuran/water).
Therapeutic miRNA-Enriched Extracellular Vesicles: Current Approaches and Future Prospects
Authors: Munir Javaria , Yoon Jeong Kyo , Ryu Seongho
Published: October 2020

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are 50–300 nm vesicles secreted by eukaryotic cells. They can carry cargo (including miRNA) from the donor cell to the recipient cell. miRNAs in EVs can change the translational profile of the recipient cell and modulate cellular morphology. This endogenous mechanism has attracted the attention of the drug-delivery community in the last few years. EVs can be enriched with exogenous therapeutic miRNAs and used for treatment of diseases by targeting pathological recipient cells. However, there are some obstacles that need to be addressed before introducing therapeutic miRNA-enriched EVs in clinics. Here, we focused on the progress in the field of therapeutic miRNA enriched EVs, highlighted important areas where research is needed, and discussed the potential to use them as therapeutic miRNA carriers in the future.
Re-Examining the Role of TNF in MS Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Fresegna Diego , Bullitta Silvia , Musella Alessandra , Rizzo Francesca Romana , De Vito Francesca , Guadalupi Livia , Caioli Silvia , Balletta Sara , Sanna Krizia , Dolcetti Ettore , Vanni Valentina , Bruno Antonio , Buttari Fabio , Stampanoni Bassi Mario , Mandolesi Georgia , Centonze Diego , Gentile Antonietta
Published: October 2020

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common neurological disorder of putative autoimmune origin. Clinical and experimental studies delineate abnormal expression of specific cytokines over the course of the disease. One major cytokine that has been shown to play a pivotal role in MS is tumor necrosis factor (TNF). TNF is a pleiotropic cytokine regulating many physiological and pathological functions of both the immune system and the central nervous system (CNS). Convincing evidence from studies in human and experimental MS have demonstrated the involvement of TNF in various pathological hallmarks of MS, including immune dysregulation, demyelination, synaptopathy and neuroinflammation. However, due to the complexity of TNF signaling, which includes two-ligands (soluble and transmembrane TNF) and two receptors, namely TNF receptor type-1 (TNFR1) and type-2 (TNFR2), and due to its cell- and context-differential expression, targeting the TNF system in MS is an ongoing challenge. This review summarizes the evidence on the pathophysiological role of TNF in MS and in different MS animal models, with a special focus on pharmacological treatment aimed at controlling the dysregulated TNF signaling in this neurological disorder.
Active Learning for Node Classification: An Evaluation
Authors: Madhawa Kaushalya , Murata Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2020

Current breakthroughs in the field of machine learning are fueled by the deployment of deep neural network models. Deep neural networks models are notorious for their dependence on large amounts of labeled data for training them. Active learning is being used as a solution to train classification models with less labeled instances by selecting only the most informative instances for labeling. This is especially important when the labeled data are scarce or the labeling process is expensive. In this paper, we study the application of active learning on attributed graphs. In this setting, the data instances are represented as nodes of an attributed graph. Graph neural networks achieve the current state-of-the-art classification performance on attributed graphs. The performance of graph neural networks relies on the careful tuning of their hyperparameters, usually performed using a validation set, an additional set of labeled instances. In label scarce problems, it is realistic to use all labeled instances for training the model. In this setting, we perform a fair comparison of the existing active learning algorithms proposed for graph neural networks as well as other data types such as images and text. With empirical results, we demonstrate that state-of-the-art active learning algorithms designed for other data types do not perform well on graph-structured data. We study the problem within the framework of the exploration-vs.-exploitation trade-off and propose a new count-based exploration term. With empirical evidence on multiple benchmark graphs, we highlight the importance of complementing uncertainty-based active learning models with an exploration term.
Thermo-Economic Evaluation of Aqua-Ammonia Solar Absorption Air Conditioning System Integrated with Various Collector Types
Authors: Al-Falahi Adil , Alobaid Falah , Epple Bernd
Published: October 2020

The main objective of this paper is to simulate solar absorption cooling systems that use ammonia mixture as a working fluid to produce cooling. In this study, we have considered different configurations based on the ammonia–water (NH3–H2O) cooling cycle depending on the solar thermal technology: Evacuated tube collectors (ETC) and parabolic trough (PTC) solar collectors. To compare the configurations we have performed the energy, exergy, and economic analysis. The effect of heat source temperature on the critical parameters such as coefficient of performance (COP) and exegetic efficiency has been investigated for each configuration. Furthermore, the required optimum area and associated cost for each collector type have been determined. The methodology is applied in a specific case study for a sports arena with a 700~800 kW total cooling load. Results reveal that (PTC/NH3-H2O)configuration gives lower design aspects and minimum rates of hourly costs (USD 11.3/h) while (ETC/NH3-H2O) configuration (USD 12.16/h). (ETC/NH3-H2O) gives lower thermo-economic product cost (USD 0.14/GJ). The cycle coefficient of performance (COP) (of 0.5).