bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immature Circulating SP-B, Bound to HDL, Represents an Early Sign of Smoke-Induced Pathophysiological Alterations
Authors: Banfi Cristina , Brioschi Maura , Mapelli Massimo , Gianazza Erica , Mallia Alice , Zoanni Beatrice , Salvioni Elisabetta , Gugliandolo Paola , Capra Nicolò , Veglia Fabrizio , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: April 2021

Cigarette smoking is a major independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The underlying mechanisms, however, are not clearly understood. Lungs are the primary route of exposure to smoke, with pulmonary cells and surfactant being the first structures directly exposed, resulting in the leakage of the immature proteoform of surfactant protein B (proSP-B). Herein, we evaluated whether proSP-B joined the cargo of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) proteins in healthy young subjects (n = 106) without any CVD risk factor other than smoking, and if HDL-associated proSP-B (HDL-SPB) correlated with pulmonary function parameters, systemic inflammation, and oxidative stress. At univariable analysis, HDL-SPB resulted significantly higher in smokers (2.2-fold, p < 0.001) than in non-smokers. No significant differences have been detected between smokers and non-smokers for inflammation, oxidation variables, and alveolar-capillary diffusion markers. In a multivariable model, HDL-SPB was independently associated with smoking. In conclusion, HDL-SPB is not only a precocious and sensitive index of the acute effects of smoke, but it might be also a potential causal factor in the onset of the vascular damage induced by modified HDL. These findings contribute to the emerging concept that the quality of the HDL proteome, rather than the quantity of particles, plays a central role in CVD risk protection.
Industrial Development of Standardized Fetal Progenitor Cell Therapy for Tendon Regenerative Medicine: Preliminary Safety in Xenogeneic Transplantation
Authors: Laurent Alexis , Abdel-Sayed Philippe , Grognuz Anthony , Scaletta Corinne , Hirt-Burri Nathalie , Michetti Murielle , de Buys Roessingh Anthony S. , Raffoul Wassim , Kronen Peter , Nuss Katja , von Rechenberg Brigitte , Applegate Lee Ann , Darwiche Salim E.
Published: April 2021

Tendon defects require multimodal therapeutic management over extensive periods and incur high collateral burden with frequent functional losses. Specific cell therapies have recently been developed in parallel to surgical techniques for managing acute and degenerative tendon tissue affections, to optimally stimulate resurgence of structure and function. Cultured primary human fetal progenitor tenocytes (hFPT) have been preliminarily considered for allogeneic homologous cell therapies, and have been characterized as stable, consistent, and sustainable cell sources in vitro. Herein, optimized therapeutic cell sourcing from a single organ donation, industrial transposition of multi-tiered progenitor cell banking, and preliminary preclinical safety of an established hFPT cell source (i.e., FE002-Ten cell type) were investigated. Results underlined high robustness of FE002-Ten hFPTs and suitability for sustainable manufacturing upscaling within optimized biobanking workflows. Absence of toxicity or tumorigenicity of hFPTs was demonstrated in ovo and in vitro, respectively. Furthermore, a 6-week pilot good laboratory practice (GLP) safety study using a rabbit patellar tendon partial-thickness defect model preliminarily confirmed preclinical safety of hFPT-based standardized transplants, wherein no immune reactions, product rejection, or tumour formation were observed. Such results strengthen the rationale of the multimodal Swiss fetal progenitor cell transplantation program and prompt further investigation around such cell sources in preclinical and clinical settings for musculoskeletal regenerative medicine.
Embedded Immunodetection System for Fecal Occult Blood
Authors: Lin Kai-Wen , Chang Yu-Chi
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a rapid test system with high sensitivity, linearity, and stability is presented for fecal occult blood (FOB) detection. The coloration results of the immune response are used as the basis for the determination of the detection target in combination with an immunochromatographic strip. The rapid test system can be used to detect and calculate the concentration of the sample, so detection of the immune coloration response is more accurate in a quantitative analysis. The system is composed of both hardware and software. The programs used for the analysis and programmed by Python include the main program, polarization calibration, QR Code decoding, Bluetooth transmission, and image processing. After verification of each part of the system, it was found that the rapid test system successfully detects from 0 ng/mL to 400 ng/mL of FOB with coefficients of variation (CV) below 3.7% and 1000 ng/mL with a CV only at 7.41%.
Enhancing the Effects of Neurofeedback Training: The Motivational Value of the Reinforcers
Authors: Pérez-Elvira Rubén , Oltra-Cucarella Javier , Carrobles José Antonio , Moltó Jorge , Flórez Mercedes , Parra Salvador , Agudo María , Saez Clara , Guarino Sergio , Costea Raluca Maria , Neamtu Bogdan
Published: April 2021

The brain activity that is measured by electroencephalography (EEG) can be modified through operant conditioning, specifically using neurofeedback (NF). NF has been applied to several disorders claiming that a change in the erratic brain activity would be accompanied by a reduction of the symptoms. However, the expected results are not always achieved. Some authors have suggested that the lack of an adequate response may be due to an incorrect application of the operant conditioning principles. A key factor in operant conditioning is the use of reinforcers and their value in modifying behavior, something that is not always sufficiently taken into account. This work aims to clarify the relevance of the motivational value versus the purely informational value of the reinforcer. In this study, 113 subjects were randomly assigned two different reinforcer conditions: a selected reinforcer—the subjects subjectively selected the reinforcers—or an imposed reinforcer—the reinforcers were assigned by the experimenter—and both groups undertook NF sessions to enhance the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR). In addition, the selected reinforcer group was divided into two subgroups: one receiving real NF and the other one sham NF. There were no significant differences between the groups at baseline in terms of SMR amplitude. After the intervention, only those subjects belonging to the selected reinforcer group and receiving real NF increased their SMR. Our results provide evidence for the importance of the motivational value of the reinforcer in Neurofeedback success.
Gender, Anxiety, and Legitimation of Violence in Adolescents Facing Simulated Physical Aggression at School
Authors: Martínez-González Marina B. , Turizo-Palencia Yamile , Arenas-Rivera Claudia , Acuña-Rodríguez Mónica , Gómez-López Yeferson , Clemente-Suárez Vicente J.
Published: April 2021

We analyzed gender and anxiety differences in middle school students facing a physical peer aggression situation. The participants were 1147 adolescents aged between 12 and 18 years (male: n = 479; female: n = 668) who watched a 12 s animation representing the situation and filled out a questionnaire to analyze the legitimation of violent behaviors and anxiety levels. We registered their decisions to solve the situation using a categorical scale that included assertive, avoidant, aggressive, submissive, and supportive behaviors. Gender was not associated with the adolescent’s behaviors in facing a simulated peer aggression situation. However, male teenagers tended to perceive adults as sanctioners and neutrals; those who used the diffusion of responsibility and dehumanization to justify their behavior also showed a higher state of anxiety. Female teenagers who expected legitimation from their peers, presented higher anxiety as well. Educational interventions may use these results, helping adolescents to understand that their acts have substantial implications in the lives of others. It is essential to develop group interventions that modify how adolescents manage their conflicts and change gender stereotypes that significantly impact health. We highlight the need for linking families in educational programs facing the challenges of transforming the legitimization of violence in parental practices.
Pituitary Tumors: New Insights into Molecular Features, Diagnosis and Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Fedele Monica
Published: April 2021

In this Special Issue, a series of eight original research articles and six reviews have been collected to highlight the latest knowledge into molecular features, diagnosis and therapeutic targeting of pituitary tumors, one of the most frequent intracranial tumors and neuroendocrine neoplasms [...]
Immunomodulatory Effects of Bendamustine in Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation
Authors: Stokes Jessica , Molina Megan S. , Hoffman Emely A. , Simpson Richard J. , Katsanis Emmanuel
Published: April 2021

Bendamustine (BEN) is a unique alkylating agent with efficacy against a broad range of hematological malignancies, although investigations have only recently started to delve into its immunomodulatory effects. These immunomodulatory properties of BEN in the context of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are reviewed here. Pre- and post-transplant use of BEN in multiple murine models have consistently resulted in reduced GvHD and enhanced GvL, with significant changes to key immunological cell populations, including T-cells, myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and dendritic cells (DCs). Further, in vitro studies find that BEN enhances the suppressive function of MDSCs, skews DCs toward cDC1s, enhances Flt3 expression on DCs, increases B-cell production of IL-10, inhibits STAT3 activation, and suppresses proliferation of T- and B-cells. Overall, BEN has a broad range of immunomodulatory effects that, as they are further elucidated, may be exploited to improve clinical outcomes. As such, clinical trials are currently underway investigating new potential applications of BEN in the setting of allogeneic HCT.
Enhancing the Effectiveness of Oxygen Evolution Reaction by Electrodeposition of Transition Metal Nanoparticles on Nickel Foam Material
Authors: Łuba Mateusz , Mikołajczyk Tomasz , Kuczyński Mateusz , Pierożyński Bogusław , Kowalski Ireneusz M.
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction (OER) activity was studied on nickel foam-based electrodes. The OER was investigated in 0.1 M NaOH solution at room temperature on as-received and Co- or Mo-modified Ni foam anodes. Corresponding values of charge-transfer resistance, exchange current-density for the OER and other electrochemical parameters for the examined Ni foam composites were recorded. The electrodeposition of Co or Mo on Ni foam base-materials resulted in a significant enhancement of the OER electrocatalytic activity. The quality and extent of Co, and Mo electrodeposition on Ni foam were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis.
Investigation of Gas Diffusion Electrode Systems for the Electrochemical CO2 Conversion
Authors: Guzmán Hilmar , Zammillo Federica , Roldán Daniela , Galletti Camilla , Russo Nunzio , Hernández Simelys
Published: April 2021

Electrochemical CO2 reduction is a promising carbon capture and utilisation technology. Herein, a continuous flow gas diffusion electrode (GDE)-cell configuration has been studied to convert CO2 via electrochemical reduction under atmospheric conditions. To this purpose, Cu-based electrocatalysts immobilised on a porous and conductive GDE have been tested. Many system variables have been evaluated to find the most promising conditions able to lead to increased production of CO2 reduction liquid products, specifically: applied potentials, catalyst loading, Nafion content, KHCO3 electrolyte concentration, and the presence of metal oxides, like ZnO or/and Al2O3. In particular, the CO productivity increased at the lowest Nafion content of 15%, leading to syngas with an H2/CO ratio of ~1. Meanwhile, at the highest Nafion content (45%), C2+ products formation has been increased, and the CO selectivity has been decreased by 80%. The reported results revealed that the liquid crossover through the GDE highly impacts CO2 diffusion to the catalyst active sites, thus reducing the CO2 conversion efficiency. Through mathematical modelling, it has been confirmed that the increase of the local pH, coupled to the electrode-wetting, promotes the formation of bicarbonate species that deactivate the catalysts surface, hindering the mechanisms for the C2+ liquid products generation. These results want to shine the spotlight on kinetics and transport limitations, shifting the focus from catalytic activity of materials to other involved factors.
Flexible Potentiometric Sensor System for Non-Invasive Determination of Antioxidant Activity of Human Skin: Application for Evaluating the Effectiveness of Phytocosmetic Products
Authors: Tarasov Aleksey V. , Khamzina Ekaterina I. , Bukharinova Maria A. , Stozhko Natalia Yu.
Published: April 2021

In contemporary bioanalysis, monitoring the antioxidant activity (AOA) of the human skin is used to assess stresses, nutrition, cosmetics, and certain skin diseases. Non-invasive methods for skin AOA monitoring have certain advantages over invasive methods, namely cost-effectiveness, lower labor intensity, reduced risk of infection, and obtaining results in the real-time mode. This study presents a new flexible potentiometric sensor system (FPSS) for non-invasive determination of the human skin AOA, which is based on flexible film electrodes (FFEs) and membrane containing a mediator ([Fe(CN)6]3–/4–). Low-cost available materials and scalable technologies were used for FFEs manufacturing. The indicator FFE was fabricated based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film and carbon veil (CV) by single-sided hot lamination. The reference FFE was fabricated based on PET film and silver paint by using screen printing, which was followed by the electrodeposition of precipitate containing a mixture of silver chloride and silver ferricyanide (SCSF). The three-electrode configuration of the FPSS, including two indicator FFEs (CV/PET) and one reference FFE (SCSF/Ag/PET), has been successfully used for measuring the skin AOA and evaluating the impact of phytocosmetic products. FPSS provides reproducible (RSD ≤ 7%) and accurate (recovery of antioxidants is almost 100%) results, which allows forecasting its broad applicability in human skin AOA monitoring as well as for evaluating the effectiveness of topically and orally applied antioxidants.
Monthly and Seasonal Drought Characterization Using GRACE-Based Groundwater Drought Index and Its Link to Teleconnections across South Indian River Basins
Authors: Satish Kumar Kuruva , AnandRaj Pallakury , Sreelatha Koppala , Bisht Deepak Singh , Sridhar Venkataramana
Published: April 2021

Traditional drought monitoring is based on observed data from both meteorological and hydrological stations. Due to the scarcity of station observation data, it is difficult to obtain accurate drought distribution characteristics, and also tedious to replicate the large-scale information of drought. Thus, Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) data are utilized in monitoring and characterizing regional droughts where ground station data is limited. In this study, we analyzed and assessed the drought characteristics utilizing the GRACE Groundwater Drought Index (GGDI) over four major river basins in India during the period of 2003–2016. The spatial distribution, temporal evolution of drought, and trend characteristics were analyzed using GGDI. Then, the relationship between GGDI and climate factors were evaluated by the method of wavelet coherence. The results indicate the following points: GRACE’s quantitative results were consistent and robust for drought assessment; out of the four basins, severe drought was noticed in the Cauvery river basin between 2012 and 2015, with severity of −27 and duration of 42 months; other than Godavari river basin, the remaining three basins displayed significant negative trends at monthly and seasonal scales; the wavelet coherence method revealed that climate factors had a substantial effect on GGDI, and the impact of Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) on drought was significantly high, followed by Sea Surface Temperature (SST) Index (namely, NINO3.4) and Multivariate El Niño–Southern Oscillation Index (MEI) in all the basins. This study provides reliable and robust quantitative result of GRACE water storage variations that shares new insights for further drought investigation.
Effect of Pressure and Temperature on Microstructure of Self-Assembled Gradient AlxTi1−xN Coatings
Authors: Zalesak Jakub , Todt Juraj , Michalička Jan , Sartory Bernhard , Matko Igor , Lessiak Mario , Traxler Margarethe , Weißenbacher Ronald , Pitonak Reinhard , Gammer Christoph , Keckes Jozef
Published: April 2021

The correlation between structural properties of Al-rich self-assembled nano-lamellar AlxTi1−xN coatings and process parameters used during their chemical vapor deposition (CVD) remains unexplored. For this article, two gradient AlxTi1−xN coatings were prepared by a stepwise increase in temperature and pressure in the ranges of 750–860 °C and 1.56 to 4.5 kPa during the depositions at a constant composition of the process gas mixture. The cross-sectional properties of the coatings were analyzed using X-ray nanodiffraction (CSnanoXRD) and electron microscopy. Experimental results indicate that the variation of the process parameters results in changes in microstructure, grain morphology, elastic strain, nanolamellae’s chemistry and bi-layer period. At temperatures of ~750–800 °C and pressures of 2.5–4.5 kPa, preferably cubic nanolamellar grains are formed, whose microstructure correlates with the build-up of tensile stresses, which become relaxed in coating regions filled with nanocrystalline grains. CSnanoXRD superlattice satellite reflections indicate the period of the cubic Al(Ti)N-Ti(Al)N bilayers, which changes from 6.7 to 9 nm due to the temperature increase from 750 to ~810 °C, while it remains nearly unaffected by the pressure variation. In summary, our study documents that CVD process parameters can be used to tune microstructural properties of self-assembled AlxTi1−xN nanolamellae as well as the coatings’ grain morphology.
iSTART StairStepper—Using Comprehension Strategy Training to Game the Test
Authors: Arner Tracy , McCarthy Kathryn S. , McNamara Danielle S.
Published: April 2021

Literacy skills are critical for future success, yet over 60% of high school seniors lack proficient reading skills according to standardized tests. The focus on high stakes, standardized test performance may lead educators to “teach-to-the-test” rather than supporting transferable comprehension strategies that students need. StairStepper can fill this gap by blending necessary test prep and reading comprehension strategy practice in a fun, game-based environment. StairStepper is an adaptive literacy skill training game within Interactive Strategy Training for Active Reading and Thinking (iSTART) intelligent tutoring system. StairStepper is unique in that it models text passages and multiple-choice questions of high-stakes assessments, iteratively supporting skill acquisition through self-explanation prompts and scaffolded, adaptive feedback based on performance and self-explanations. This paper describes an experimental study employing a delayed-treatment control design to evaluate users’ perceptions of the StairStepper game and its influence on reading comprehension scores. Results indicate that participants enjoyed the visual aspects of the game environment, wanted to perform well, and considered the game feedback helpful. Reading comprehension scores of students in the treatment condition did not increase. However, the comprehension scores of the control group decreased. Collectively, these results indicate that the StairStepper game may fill the intended gap in instruction by providing enjoyable practice of essential reading comprehension skills and test preparation, potentially increasing students’ practice persistence while decreasing teacher workload.
Development of an Interface Shear Strength Tester and a Model Predicting the Optimal Application Rate of Tack Coat
Authors: Kim Dowan , Mun Sungho
Published: April 2021

Tack coat application rates and testing conditions differ among nations and construction conditions because various tack coat materials are available. In this study, newer materials are optimized for addition to porous asphalt pavements exposed to torrential rainfall, which is common in South Korea. Interface shear strength (ISS) tests are used to define the optimum application rates (OARs) of tack coat materials generally used in South Korea, by reference to the Korean Design Standard (KDS), the Korean Construction Standard (KCS), and features of pavement construction and bonding. We performed ISS tests using asphalt mixtures with porosities of 3, 5, and 7% to explore the effect of porosity on shear strength. The ISSs associated with varying tack coat proportions were earlier determined by creating polynomial regression equations. Here, we develop a predictive model using a non-linear function to estimate the OAR of tack coat and compare our approach with the earlier polynomial regression analysis. Based on the ISSs, the golden section search method was applied to define the OARs afforded by the predictive polynomial function. We used the generalized reduced gradient algorithm to construct a nonlinear predictive function using data from the ISS tests. Finally, our comparative analysis showed that the predictive model using the non-linear function was superior to the polynomial model in terms of both error rate and predictive tendency.
Precipitation and Distribution Behavior of In Situ-Formed TiB Whiskers in Ti64 Composites Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Umeda Junko , Jia Lei , Chen Biao , Chen Ke , Li Shufeng , Shitara Kazuki , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: April 2021

The precipitation and distribution behaviors of in situ-formed titanium boride whiskers (TiB) in TiBw-reinforced Ti-6%Al-4%V (Ti64) composites fabricated from an elemental mixture of Ti64 alloy powder and TiB2 particles by selective laser melting were investigated. The primary precipitation of TiB whiskers strongly depends on B content. For a B content of less than 2 mass%, when the liquid → β-phase transformation occurred and B atoms were discharged, the B-enriched area formed around the β-phase resulted in the generation of TiB whiskers and their agglomeration at the prior β-grain boundaries. When the B content was over 2 mass%, TiB whiskers directly precipitated from the liquid phase and moved to the molten pool boundary via Marangoni convection. As a result, the TiB whiskers were located along the boundary. Furthermore, B-enrichment caused a decrease in the liquidus temperature and thus obstructed β-grain coarsening, and as a result, fine equiaxed α’-grains formed during the phase transformation.
Synthesis and Characterization of Ammonium Potassium Tellurium Polyoxomolybdate: (NH4)2K2TeMo6O22·2H2O with One-Dimensional Anionic Polymeric Chain [TeMo6O22]4−
Authors: Geng Lei , Wang Yunjian
Published: April 2021

A new tellurium polyoxomolybdate hydrate (NH4)2K2TeMo6O22·2H2O was synthesized via the hydrothermal reaction method at 190 °C. The compound crystallizes in a one-dimensional tellurium polymolybdate [TeMo6O22]4− chain structure. The anionic polymeric chain is composed of Mo6O22 hexamers bridged together through sharing four corner oxygen atoms on the electron lone-paired TeO4 group. The Mo6O22 hexamer cluster is assembled from six distorted MoO6 octahedra in an edge-sharing manner. The ammonium and potassium cations distribute around the [TeMo6O22]4− chains and separate them from each other and maintain the charge balance. The thermal stability and optical properties of the compound were also investigated. The optical absorption data reveal that the compound is a wide band semiconductor with an optical band gap of 3.4 eV.
A Characteristic Study of Polylactic Acid/Organic Modified Montmorillonite (PLA/OMMT) Nanocomposite Materials after Hydrolyzing
Authors: Huang Su-Mei , Hwang Jiunn-Jer , Liu Hsin-Jiant , Zheng An-Miao
Published: April 2021

In this study, the montmorillonite (MMT) clay was modified with NH4Cl, and then the structures were exfoliated or intercalated in a polylactic acid (PLA) matrix by a torque rheometer in the ratio of 0.5, 3.0, 5.0 and 8.0 wt%. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed that the organic modified-MMT(OMMT) was distributed successfully in the PLA matrix. After thermal pressing, the thermal stability of the mixed composites was measured by a TGA. The mixed composites were also blended with OMMT by a co-rotating twin screw extruder palletizing system, and then injected for the ASTM-D638 standard specimen by an injection machine for measuring the material strength by MTS. The experimental results showed that the mixture of organophilic clay and PLA would enhance the thermal stability. In the PLA mixed with 3 wt% OMMT nanocomposite, the TGA maximum decomposition temperature (Tmax) rose from 336.84 °C to 339.08 °C. In the PLA mixed with 5 wt% OMMT nanocomposite, the loss of temperature rose from 325.14 °C to 326.48 °C. In addition, the elongation rate increased from 4.46% to 10.19% with the maximum loading of 58 MPa. After the vibrating hydrolysis process, the PLA/OMMT nanocomposite was degraded through the measurement of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and its Tg, Tc, and Tm1 declined.
Molecular Characterization of Medulloblastoma in a Patient with Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ranalli Marco , Boni Alessandra , Caroleo Anna Maria , Del Baldo Giada , Rinelli Martina , Agolini Emanuele , Rossi Sabrina , Miele Evelina , Colafati Giovanna Stefania , Boccuto Luigi , Alessi Iside , De Ioris Maria Antonietta , Cacchione Antonella , Capolino Rossella , Carai Andrea , Vennarini Sabina , Mastronuzzi Angela
Published: April 2021

Brain tumors are the most common solid neoplasms of childhood. They are frequently reported in children with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). The most frequent central nervous system malignancies described in NF1 are optic pathway gliomas and brainstem gliomas. Medulloblastoma (MB) in NF1 patients is extremely rare, and to our knowledge, only 10 cases without molecular characterization are described in the literature to date. We report the case of a 14-year-old girl with NF1 that came to our attention for an incidental finding of a lesion arising from cerebellar vermis. The mass was completely resected, revealing a localized classic medulloblastoma (MB), subgroup 4. She was treated as a standard-risk MB with a dose-adapted personalized protocol. The treatment proved to be effective, with minor toxicity. Brain and spine MRI one year after diagnosis confirmed the complete remission of the disease. To our knowledge, this is the only case of MB reported in a patient with NF1 with molecular characterization by the methylation profile. The association between NF1 and MB, although uncommon, may not be an accidental occurrence.
Ventilator Parameters in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Postoperative Patients: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kor Chew-Teng , Lin Kai-Huang , Wang Chen-Hsu , Lin Jui-Feng , Kuo Cheng-Deng
Published: April 2021

This study investigated the usefulness of ventilator parameters in the prediction of development and outcome of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in postoperative patients with esophageal or lung cancer on admission to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU). A total of 32 post-operative patients with lung or esophageal cancer from SICU in a tertiary medical center were retrospectively analyzed. The study patients were divided into an ARDS group (n = 21) and a non-ARDS group (n = 11). The ARDS group contained the postoperative patients who developed ARDS after lung or esophageal cancer surgery. The ventilator variables were analyzed in this study. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed to reduce the correlated ventilator variables to a small set of variables. The top three ventilator variables with large coefficients, as determined by PCA, were considered as sensitive variables and included in the analysis model based on the rule of 10 events per variable. Firth logistic regression with selective stepwise elimination procedure was performed to identify the most important predictors of morbidity and mortality in patients with ARDS. Ventilator parameters, including rapid shallow breath index during mechanical ventilation (RSBIv), rate pressure product of ventilation (RPPv), rate pressure volume index (RPVI), mechanical work (MW), and inspiration to expiration time ratio (IER), were analyzed in this study. It was found that the ARDS patients had significantly greater respiratory rate (RR), airway resistance (Raw), RSBIv, RPPv, RPVI, positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), and IER and significantly lower respiratory interval (RI), expiration time (Te), flow rate (V˙), tidal volume (VT), dynamic compliance (Cdyn), mechanical work of ventilation (MW), and MW/IER ratio than the non-ARDS patients. The non-survivors of ARDS had significantly greater peak inspiratory pressure above PEEP (PIP), RSBIv, RPPv, and RPVI than the survivors of ARDS. By using PCA, the MW/IER was found to be the most important predictor of the development of ARDS, and both RPPv and RPVI were significant predictors of mortality in patients with ARDS. In conclusion, some ventilator parameters, such as RPPv, RPVI, and MW/IER defined in this study, can be derived from ventilator readings and used to predict the development and outcome of ARDS in mechanically ventilated patients on admission to the SICU.
Industry 4.0 Quantum Strategic Organizational Design Configurations. The Case of 3 Qubits: Two Report to One
Authors: Villalba-Diez Javier , Losada Juan Carlos , Benito Rosa María , Schmidt Daniel
Published: April 2021

The goal of this work is to explore how the relationship between two subordinates reporting to a leader influences the alignment of the latter with the company’s strategic objectives in an Industry 4.0 environment. We do this through the implementation of quantum circuits that represent decision networks. In fact, through the quantum simulation of strategic organizational design configurations (QSOD) through five hundred quantum circuit simulations. We conclude that the alignment probability of the leader is never higher than the average alignment value of his subordinates, i.e., the leader never has a better alignment than his subordinates. In other words, the leader cannot present asymptotic stability better than that of his subordinates. The most relevant conclusion of this work is the clear recommendation to the leaders of Industry 4.0 not to add hierarchical levels to their organization if they have not achieved high levels of stability in the lower levels.
High-Throughput Nanoparticle Chemisorption Printing of Chemical Sensors with High-Wiring-Density Electrodes
Authors: Tsutsumi Jun’ya
Published: April 2021

We report on the high-throughput non-lithographic microprinting of a high-wiring-density interdigitated array electrode (line and space = 5 µm/5 µm), based on a facile wet/dewet patterning of silver nanoparticle ink. The trade-off between high-density wiring and pattern collapse in the wet/dewet patterning is overcome by employing a new herringbone design of interdigitated array electrode. We demonstrate electrochemical sensing of p-benzoquinone by the fabricated interdigitated array electrode, showing a typical steady-state I–V characteristics with superior signal amplification benefiting from the redox cycling effect. Our findings provide a new technical solution for the scalable manufacture of advanced chemical sensors, with an economy of scale that cannot be realized by other techniques.
Towards Controlled Transmission: A Novel Power-Based Sparsity-Aware and Energy-Efficient Clustering for Underwater Sensor Networks in Marine Transport Safety
Authors: Hayder Israa Adil , Khan Sundas Naqeeb , Althobiani Faisal , Irfan Muhammad , Idrees Muhammad , Ullah Saeed , Alsaaq Faisal , Glowacz Adam , Goldasz Iwona , Tomczyk Marcin , Martis Radu
Published: April 2021

Energy-efficient management and highly reliable communication and transmission mechanisms are major issues in Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSN) due to the limited battery power of UWSN nodes within an harsh underwater environment. In this paper, we integrate the three main techniques that have been used for managing Transmission Power-based Sparsity-conscious Energy-Efficient Clustering (CTP-SEEC) in UWSNs. These incorporate the adaptive power control mechanism that converts to a suitable Transmission Power Level (TPL), and deploys collaboration mobile sinks or Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) to gather information locally to achieve energy and data management efficiency (Security) in the WSN. The proposed protocol is rigorously evaluated through extensive simulations and is validated by comparing it with state-of-the-art UWSN protocols. The simulation results are based on the static environmental condition, which shows that the proposed protocol performs well in terms of network lifetime, packet delivery, and throughput.
Mutual Coupling Compensation Techniques Used for Distance Protection of Parallel Lines
Authors: O Donovan Michael , Barry Noel , Connell Joe , Cowhey Eoin
Published: April 2021

When a distance relay protects a transmission line located on a dual circuit tower, a coupling effect will occur between the two circuits. Transposition of the circuits can reduce the mutual impedances, but this does not cater to the zero-sequence mutual coupling impedance during earth faults. As a result, the impedance measured by a distance relay under phase-to-earth fault conditions in these circumstances will not represent the correct impedance to the fault point unless these effects are taken into account. On multi-circuit lines, primarily if they operate in parallel, a zero-sequence mutual coupling should be considered when calculating settings for distance protection function. A 220 kV parallel line sharing the same tower was analysed using DigSilent Power Factory in the simulations. Phase-to-earth faults in different configurations were analysed on this system, and the reach of the protection relay was then estimated for operation. The results confirm how a protection relay can overreach and underreach in a distance protection scheme due to the influence of mutual coupling.
Impact of Carbon Tax Increase on Product Prices in Japan
Authors: Nakano Katsuyuki , Yamagishi Ken
Published: April 2021

The introduction or strengthening of a carbon tax is being considered in many countries as an economic policy instrument to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, there is no study analyzing the impact of a carbon tax increase in a uniform method for various products, reflecting the energy taxes and exemptions. Therefore, this study analyzes the price changes of products associated with the introduction of a stronger carbon tax, using Japan as an example. A process-based life cycle assessment database was used to enable a detailed product-level analysis. Five scenarios with different taxation amounts and methods were analyzed. The results show that price changes vary greatly by industry sector and product, even within the same industry sector. For example, seasonal vegetables and recycled plastics are less affected by carbon tax increases. Imported products, such as primary aluminum, are not affected by the Japanese carbon tax change, indicating a risk of carbon leakage. If GHGs other than CO2 are also taxed, the price of CH4 and N2O emitting products, such as rice and beef, would rise significantly. The method presented in this paper enables companies to assume price changes in procured products due to carbon taxes and policymakers to analyze the impact of such taxes on products.
Regional Pole Placers of Power Systems under Random Failures/Repair Markov Jumps
Authors: El-Sheikhi Farag Ali , Soliman Hisham M. , Ahshan Razzaqul , Hossain Eklas
Published: April 2021

This paper deals with a discrete-time stochastic control model design for random failure prone and maintenance in a single machine infinite bus (SMIB) system. This model includes the practical values of failure/repair rate of transmission lines and transformers. The probability matrix is, therefore, calculated accordingly. The model considers two extreme modes of operations: the most reliable mode and the least reliable contingency case. This allows the control design which stochastically stabilizes the system under jump Markov disturbances. For adequate transient response, the proposed state feedback power system stabilizer (PSS) achieves a desired settling time and damping ratio by placing the closed-loop poles in a desired region. The control target should also be satisfied for load variations in either mode of operation. A sufficient condition is developed to achieve the control objectives via solving a set of linear matrix inequalities (LMI). Using simulation, the performance of the designed controller is tested for the system that prone to random failure/maintenance under various loading conditions. Simulation results reveal that the closed-loop poles reside within the desired region satisfying the required settling time and damping ratio under the aforementioned disturbances. The contributions of the paper are summarized as follows: (1) modeling of transition probability matrix under Markov Jumps using practical data, (2) designing a controller by compelling the closed poles into the desired region to achieve adequate dynamic performance under different load varying conditions.
Analysis of the Net Metering Schemes for PV Self-Consumption in Denmark
Authors: Martín Helena , de la Hoz Jordi , Aliana Arnau , Coronas Sergio , Matas José
Published: April 2021

The current Danish regulatory framework BEK 999/2016 for hourly net settled new PV facilities is analysed in detail, evaluating the technical and economic differences between the several envisioned schemes. In addition to the saved cost of the self-consumed energy, the transmission system operator (TSO) tariffs and the public service obligation (PSO) tax are avoided for the self-consumed energy. Advantages regarding the electricity tax and VAT can also be obtained but according to a more varied casuistry, with a particular incentivizing effect for the residential customers. The installation-connected type group 2 is found the cheaper scheme and the billing concepts responsible for its minor cost are identified. This analysis is expected to contribute to discerning the different economic outcomes of the various schemes, helping to take informed investment decisions. Transcending the local value, some common characteristics of this complex framework that can also be found in other regulations may ease the comprehension of the leverage points and the policy instruments for modulating the economic results of the facilities and in this way also their path of deployment.
Preparation and Characterization of Core-Shell Structure Hard Carbon/Si-Carbon Composites with Multiple Shell Structures as Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jong-Chan , Kim Kyung-Jin , Lee Sung-Man
Published: April 2021

Novel core-shell structure hard carbon/Si-carbon composites are prepared, and their electrochemical performances as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries are reported. Three different types of shell coating are applied using Si-carbon, Si-carbon black-carbon and Si-carbon black-carbon/graphite nanosheets. It appears that the use of n-Si/carbon black/carbon composite particles in place of n-Si for the shell coating is of great importance to achieve enhanced electrochemical performances from the core-shell composite samples, and additional wrapping with graphite nanosheets leads to a more stable cycle performance of the core-shell composites.
Long- and Short-Run Forest Dynamics: An Empirical Assessment of Forest Transition, Environmental Kuznets Curve and Ecologically Unequal Exchange Theories
Authors: Rodríguez García Virginia , Caravaggio Nicola , Gaspart Frédéric , Meyfroidt Patrick
Published: April 2021

Forest dynamics are changing at a local and global level, with multiple social and environmental implications. The current literature points to different theories and hypotheses to explain these forest dynamics. In this paper, we formalized some of those theories, the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC), the forest transition and the ecologically unequal exchange, into hypotheses tested with a panel dataset covering 111 countries during the period the period 1992–2015. Considering the nature of our data, we relied on cointegration techniques to assess both long- and short-run dynamics in forest change, avoiding possible spurious results. Moreover, we attempted to disentangle direct and indirect effects of our independent variables to uncover the mechanisms that underly forest change dynamics. The results show that there is a long-run dynamic equilibrium relationship between forest cover area, economic development, agricultural area and rural population density. Furthermore, our results confirmed an EKC for high-income countries and post-forest transition countries, while low- and middle-income economies are experiencing different paths. We showed the importance of government quality as a positive feedback mechanism for previous periods of deforestation when tested for all countries together as well as for pre-transition and middle-income economies. Moreover, in low-income economies, economic development affects forest mainly indirectly through the agricultural area.
The Lifetimes of Evaporating Sessile Droplets of Water Can Be Strongly Influenced by Thermal Effects
Authors: Schofield Feargus G. H. , Pritchard David , Wilson Stephen K. , Sefiane Khellil
Published: April 2021

The effect of the thermal properties of the system on the lifetime of an evaporating sessile droplet of water is analysed using a fully coupled model which involves determining the temperature of the droplet, the substrate and the atmosphere. The evolutions, and hence the lifetimes, of droplets of water evaporating in both of the extreme modes are calculated. In particular, it is shown how the lifetimes of droplets of water can be strongly influenced by thermal effects. Droplets with larger initial contact angles or on less conductive substrates generally have longer lifetimes than those with smaller initial contact angles or on more conductive substrates, and the physical mechanism by which the thermal properties of the system influence the evaporation can be understood in terms of the thermal anchoring between the droplet and the lower surface of the substrate.
Gas–Liquid Two-Phase Flow and Heat Transfer without Phase Change in Microfluidic Heat Exchanger
Authors: Vasilev Maksim P. , Abiev Rufat Sh.
Published: April 2021

This work presents an experimental study of the possibility of intensifying in microfluidic heat exchangers (MFHE) by creating a two-phase segmented flow (gas–liquid). Measurements of convective heat transfer were carried out using an MFHE, consisting of six channels 1 × 1 mm. Experimental studies have shown that segmented flow makes it possible to increase the Nusselt number of a laminar flow in MFHE up to 1.67 and reduce thermal resistance up to 1.7 times compared to single-phase flow. At the same time, it was found that the intensification of heat exchange by a two-phase flow is observed only for the range of the volume fraction of gas from 10 to 30%. In addition, the calculation of the thermal performance criterion, including both thermal and hydraulic parameters (friction factor), also confirmed the promise of using the Taylor segmented flow as a method for single-phase heat transfer intensifying in microchannels.
An Integrated Approach of Mechanistic-Modeling and Machine-Learning for Thickness Optimization of Frozen Microwaveable Foods
Authors: Yang Ran , Wang Zhenbo , Chen Jiajia
Published: April 2021

Mechanistic-modeling has been a useful tool to help food scientists in understanding complicated microwave-food interactions, but it cannot be directly used by the food developers for food design due to its resource-intensive characteristic. This study developed and validated an integrated approach that coupled mechanistic-modeling and machine-learning to achieve efficient food product design (thickness optimization) with better heating uniformity. The mechanistic-modeling that incorporated electromagnetics and heat transfer was previously developed and validated extensively and was used directly in this study. A Bayesian optimization machine-learning algorithm was developed and integrated with the mechanistic-modeling. The integrated approach was validated by comparing the optimization performance with a parametric sweep approach, which is solely based on mechanistic-modeling. The results showed that the integrated approach had the capability and robustness to optimize the thickness of different-shape products using different initial training datasets with higher efficiency (45.9% to 62.1% improvement) than the parametric sweep approach. Three rectangular-shape trays with one optimized thickness (1.56 cm) and two non-optimized thicknesses (1.20 and 2.00 cm) were 3-D printed and used in microwave heating experiments, which confirmed the feasibility of the integrated approach in thickness optimization. The integrated approach can be further developed and extended as a platform to efficiently design complicated microwavable foods with multiple-parameter optimization.
Detection of Carrageenan in Meat Products Using Lectin Histochemistry
Authors: Bartlová Marie , Tremlová Bohuslava , Marcinčák Slavomír , Pospiech Matej
Published: April 2021

Carrageenan is a polysaccharide that is widely used in the food industry. Due to its water holding capacity, there is a higher risk of adulteration for economic reasons related to it. A verifiable method for detecting carrageenan is still missing in the food inspection sector. The detection of carrageenan in meat products is not well described. Our study describes lectin histochemistry as a novel approach for carrageenan detection. Within this study, the detection of carrageenan in meat products by lectin histochemistry is validated. Lectins of Arachis hypogaea (PNA) and Bandeiraea simlicifolia (BSA), specific for galactose units of carrageenan, were used. The samples included model meat products (ground chicken-meat products) and meat products from retail markets (chicken and pork hams, sausages, salami, and dried sausages). The limit of determination (LoD) of this method was set at 0.01 g kg−1. The method sensitivity for lectin PNA reached 1, and, for lectin BSA, it reached 0.96. Method specificity for lectin PNA was 1, and, for lectin BSA, it was 1.33. Cross-reactivity with other hydrocolloids tested was not confirmed. The results confirm that lectin histochemistry is suitable for detecting carrageenan in meat products.