bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial Distribution and Determinant Factors of Handwashing Practice With Essential Agents Among Households in Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Sewnet Adem , Tusa Biruk Shalmeno , Weldesenbet Adisu Birhanu
Published: April 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the spatial distribution and determinant factors of handwashing practice using essential handwashing agents (soap and water) among households in Ethiopia.

Methods: A two-stage stratified cluster sampling technique was used. Mixed-effect logistic regression analysis was also used to identify determinants of handwashing practice with essential agents.

Results: In Ethiopia, household handwashing practices with essential agents had spatial variation (Moran’s Index 0.62, p < 0.001). The Amhara and Somali regions were identified as significant hotspots with low handwashing practice using essential agents.

Conclusion: In Ethiopia, handwashing practice with essential agents showed spatial variation across the country with a very low rate. Areas with low handwashing practice with essential agents need high priority in the allocation of resources to ensure communities’ access to fixed and portable handwashing facilities, soap, and reliable water supplies. Households with low access to improved sanitation facilities, low wealth status, and low educational status should be targeted for the intervention.
Intelligent Discrete Sliding Mode Predictive Fault-Tolerant Control Method for Multi-Delay Quad-Rotor UAV System Based on DIECOA
Authors: Yang Pu , Zhang Zhiqing , Geng Huiling , Jiang Bin , Hu Xukai
Published: April 2022

This paper introduces a novel intelligent sliding mode predictive fault-tolerant control method based on the Dynamic Information Exchange Coyote Optimization Algorithm (DIECOA), which is applied to a quad-rotor UAV system with multi-delay and sensor fault. First, the system nonlinearity and sensor fault are dealt with by means of interpolation transformation and system state expansion, and an equivalent system is obtained. Second, the quasi-integral sliding mode surface is used to construct the prediction model so that the initial state of the system is located on the sliding mode surface, and the global robustness is guaranteed. Third, this paper introduces an improved fault and disturbance compensation term, which effectively weakens the adverse effect of time delays and enhances the FTC performance of the system. Fourth, the Dynamic Information Exchange (DIE) strategy is designed to further improve the coyote individual replacement mechanism and speeds up the solution and convergence speed of the method in this paper. Finally, the simulation is carried out on the fault-tolerant simulation platform of the quad-rotor Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), and the results show the rationality of the method.
Performance Analysis of Empennage Configurations on a Surveillance and Monitoring Mission of a VTOL-Plane UAV Using a Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Nugroho Gesang , Zuliardiansyah Galih , Rasyiddin Azhar Aulia
Published: April 2022

A Vertical Take-Off and Landing-Plane (VTOL-Plane) is an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) that combines multirotor and fixed-wing configurations. It has a good cruise range compared to a VTOL vehicle. Furthermore, it can take-off and land vertically. This technology is ideal for surveillance/monitoring missions and transmitting data in real-time. This study discusses the design of a VTOL-Plane with a preset Design Requirement Objectives (DRO), namely a Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of 14 kg, a cruise speed of 23 m/s, and a cruising range of 6 h. To maximize the performance, the empennage configurations on the VTOL-Plane varied, and then a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation was carried out. The empennage configurations analyzed were a U-shaped boom, an inverted U-shaped boom, an inverted V-tail boom, and a semi-inverted V-tail boom. The interpreted performance related to the stalling angle, flight efficiency, stability, stall speed, and maneuverability. The relative wind directions toward the longitudinal axis of the UAV, also called the sideslip angle, were varied. The CFD simulation results showed that the empennage configuration of the inverted U-shaped boom is suitable for a surveillance mission. This article also optimized the final empennage design by adding a vertical fin to improve stability.
Modelling the Effect of Deformation on Discontinuous Precipitation in Magnesium—Aluminium Alloy
Authors: Robson Joseph , Guo Jiaxuan , Davis Alec
Published: April 2022

Magnesium–Aluminium alloys can decompose from a supersaturated solid solution by either continuous or discontinuous precipitation. Deformation prior to precipitation has been shown to strongly suppress the discontinuous precipitation mode and promote continuous precipitation. In this work, a model is used to explore the interaction between deformation and precipitation in the Mg–Al system. It has been shown that accelerated nucleation of continuous precipitates on dislocations is predicted to have the dominant effect in suppressing discontinuous precipitation by reducing the solute supersaturation. A secondary effect is the direct role played by twins in the deformed structure, which act as impenetrable barriers to discontinuous precipitate growth. However, even in the deformed case, small regions of discontinuous precipitation are still observed. It is proposed that this is due to the high level of strain concentration expected in the grain boundary regions, which provides a locally enhanced driving force for the migration of grain boundaries such that limited discontinuous precipitation occurs before continuous precipitation becomes established.
Reintroductions of the Corsican Red Deer (Cervus elaphus corsicanus): Conservation Projects and Sanitary Risk
Authors: Riga Francesco , Mandas Luciano , Putzu Nicola , Murgia Andrea
Published: April 2022

The Corsican red deer is an endangered subspecies that needs artificial translocation projects to gain its complete recovery with the formation of viable, interconnected populations. Between 2007 and 2017, we performed two reintroduction projects in four sites in central–eastern Sardinia via tracking 32 deer by means of GPS/GSM radiotelemetry. On the basis of the obtained results, we built a species distribution model (SDM) using MaxEnt software, selecting 200 random points from the merged deer core areas as presence data. Furthermore, to evaluate the sanitary risk linked to artificial translocations, we analyzed deer positivity to Bluetongue virus (BTV) in the founder populations. The SDM showed a high deer capability to colonize central–eastern Sardinia, but it also showed the possibility of spreading BTV to domestic sheep because sanitary analyses confirmed the virus’ presence in the founder populations. Our main conclusion was that reintroductions are effective tools for the long-term conservation of the Corsican red deer, as long as sanitary risks are minimized by means of sanitary monitoring of translocated deer.
Repeated-Dose Pharmacodynamics of Pimobendan in Healthy Cats
Authors: Sugimoto Keisuke , Sugita Kazutoshi , Orito Kensuke , Fujii Yoko
Published: April 2022

The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of repeated and multiple-dose pimobendan on cardiac systolic function and the correlations between changes in cardiac systolic function and plasma concentrations of pimobendan and O-desmethylpimobendan (ODMP). Five clinically healthy cats were subjected to four different medication protocols for 14 days, with a washout period of at least 1 month between each protocol. The protocols were pimobendan 0.5 mg/kg q12h (high dosage [HD] group); pimobendan 0.25 mg/kg q12h (standard dosage [SD] group); pimobendan 0.125 mg/kg q12h (low dosage group); and Biofermin R, one tablet q12h (placebo group). Echocardiography and measurement of plasma concentrations of pimobendan and ODMP were performed prior to medication administration (baseline) and 20, 40, 60, 120, 240, 360, and 480 min after administration, and the correlation between the changes in cardiac systolic function and plasma concentration of pimobendan, ODMP, or the sum of both were examined. The cardiac systolic function increased in the HD and SD groups, and there were significant correlations between the lateral peak systolic myocardial velocity (S′) changes and plasma pimobendan, plasma ODMP, and the sum of both. Repeated doses of pimobendan in healthy cats increased cardiac systolic function, and there were significant correlations between cardiac function and plasma concentrations of pimobendan and ODMP. The results of this study highlight the effectiveness of a higher dose of pimobendan.
Environmental Risk Factors Influence the Frequency of Coughing and Sneezing Episodes in Finisher Pigs on a Farm Free of Respiratory Disease
Authors: Pessoa Joana , Camp Montoro Jordi , Pina Nunes Telmo , Norton Tomas , McAloon Conor , Garcia Manzanilla Edgar , Boyle Laura
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to assess baseline levels of coughing on a farm free of respiratory disease, and to identify relationships between environmental conditions and coughing frequency in finisher pigs. Six replicates were conducted (690 pigs in total). A cross-correlation analysis was performed and lags of the predictor variables were carried forward for multivariable regression analysis when significant and showing r > 0.25. Results show that coughing frequency was overall low. In the first replicate, coughing was best predicted by exposure to higher ammonia concentrations that occurred with a lag of 1, 7, and 15 days (p = 0.003, p = 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively), while in the sixth replicate coughing frequency was best predicted by the exposure to lower relative humidity and higher ventilation rates with a lag of 7 and 15 days (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Ammonia concentrations varied according to ventilation rates recorded on the same day (r > −0.70). In conclusion, guidelines on coughing levels in healthy pigs and calibration of the alarm systems of tools that measure coughing frequency can be extrapolated from this study. Environmental risk factors are associated with the respiratory health of finisher pigs.
Equine Mesenchymal Stem Cells Influence the Proliferative Response of Lymphocytes: Effect of Inflammation, Differentiation and MHC-Compatibility
Authors: Cequier Alina , Romero Antonio , Vázquez Francisco J. , Vitoria Arantza , Bernad Elvira , Fuente Sara , Zaragoza Pilar , Rodellar Clementina , Barrachina Laura
Published: April 2022

Immunomodulation and immunogenicity are pivotal aspects for the therapeutic use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Since the horse is highly valuable as both a patient and translational model, further knowledge on equine MSC immune properties is required. This study analysed how inflammation, chondrogenic differentiation and compatibility for the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) influence the MSC immunomodulatory–immunogenicity balance. Equine MSCs in basal conditions, pro-inflammatory primed (MSC-primed) or chondrogenically differentiated (MSC-chondro) were co-cultured with either autologous or allogeneic MHC-matched/mismatched lymphocytes in immune-suppressive assays (immunomodulation) and in modified one-way mixed leukocyte reactions (immunogenicity). After co-culture, frequency and proliferation of T cell subsets and B cells were assessed by flow cytometry and interferon-ɣ (IFNɣ) secretion by ELISA. MSC-primed showed higher regulatory potential by decreasing proliferation of cytotoxic and helper T cells and B cells. However, MHC-mismatched MSC-primed can also activate lymphocytes (proliferative response and IFNɣ secretion), likely due to increased MHC-expression. MSC-chondro maintained their regulatory ability and did not increase their immunogenicity, but showed less capacity than MSC-primed to induce regulatory T cells and further stimulated B cells. Subsequent in vivo studies are needed to elucidate the complex interactions between MSCs and the recipient immune system, which is critical to develop safe and effective therapies.
The Relationships between Damaging Behaviours and Health in Laying Hens
Authors: Michel Virginie , Berk Jutta , Bozakova Nadya , van der Eijk Jerine , Estevez Inma , Mircheva Teodora , Relic Renata , Rodenburg T. Bas , Sossidou Evangelia N. , Guinebretière Maryse
Published: April 2022

Since the ban in January 2012 of conventional cages for egg production in the European Union (Council Directive 1999/74/EC), alternative systems such as floor, aviary, free-range, and organic systems have become increasingly common, reaching 50% of housing for hens in 2019. Despite the many advantages associated with non-cage systems, the shift to a housing system where laying hens are kept in larger groups and more complex environments has given rise to new challenges related to management, health, and welfare. This review examines the close relationships between damaging behaviours and health in modern husbandry systems for laying hens. These new housing conditions increase social interactions between animals. In cases of suboptimal rearing and/or housing and management conditions, damaging behaviour or infectious diseases are likely to spread to the whole flock. Additionally, health issues, and therefore stimulation of the immune system, may lead to the development of damaging behaviours, which in turn may result in impaired body conditions, leading to health and welfare issues. This raises the need to monitor both behaviour and health of laying hens in order to intervene as quickly as possible to preserve both the welfare and health of the animals.
Modelling Genetic Benefits and Financial Costs of Integrating Biobanking into the Captive Management of Koalas
Authors: Howell Lachlan G. , Johnston Stephen D. , O’Brien Justine K. , Frankham Richard , Rodger John C. , Ryan Shelby A. , Beranek Chad T. , Clulow John , Hudson Donald S. , Witt Ryan R.
Published: April 2022

Zoo and wildlife hospital networks are set to become a vital component of Australia’s contemporary efforts to conserve the iconic and imperiled koala (Phascolarctos cinereus). Managed breeding programs held across zoo-based networks typically face high economic costs and can be at risk of adverse genetic effects typical of unavoidably small captive colonies. Emerging evidence suggests that biobanking and associated assisted reproductive technologies could address these economic and genetic challenges. We present a modelled scenario, supported by detailed costings, where these technologies are optimized and could be integrated into conservation breeding programs of koalas across the established zoo and wildlife hospital network. Genetic and economic modelling comparing closed captive koala populations suggest that supplementing them with cryopreserved founder sperm using artificial insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injection could substantially reduce inbreeding, lower the required colony sizes of conservation breeding programs, and greatly reduce program costs. Ambitious genetic retention targets (maintaining 90%, 95% and 99% of source population heterozygosity for 100 years) could be possible within realistic cost frameworks, with output koalas suited for wild release. Integrating biobanking into the zoo and wildlife hospital network presents a cost-effective and financially feasible model for the uptake of these tools due to the technical and research expertise, captive koala colonies, and ex situ facilities that already exist across these networks.
Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis in Pediatric Patients Undergoing Plastic Surgery: A RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method Consensus Study
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Sgarzani Rossella , Bianchini Sonia , Monaco Sara , Nicoletti Laura , Rigotti Erika , Di Pietro Marilia , Opri Roberta , Caminiti Caterina , Ciccia Matilde , Conti Giorgio , Donà Daniele , Giuffré Mario , La Grutta Stefania , Lancella Laura , Lima Mario , Lo Vecchio Andrea , Pelizzo Gloria , Piacentini Giorgio , Pietrasanta Carlo , Puntoni Matteo , Simonini Alessandro , Venturini Elisabetta , Staiano Annamaria , Principi Nicola ,   on behalf of the Peri-Operative Prophylaxis in Neonatal and Paediatric Age (POP-NeoPed) Study Group
Published: April 2022

For many years, it was clearly shown that surgical procedures might be associated with surgical site infection (SSI). Many scientific institutions prepared guidelines to use in surgery to reduce abuse and misuse of antibiotics. However, in the general guidelines for surgical antibiotic prophylaxis, plastic surgical procedures are not addressed or are only marginally discussed, and children were almost systematically excluded. The main aim of this Consensus document is to provide clinicians with recommendations on antimicrobial prophylaxis for pediatric patients undergoing plastic surgery. The following scenarios were considered: clean plastic surgery in elective procedures with an exclusive skin and subcutis involvement; clean-contaminated/contaminated plastic surgery in elective procedures with an exclusive skin and subcutis involvement; elective plastic surgery with use of local flaps; elective plastic surgery with the use of grafts; prolonged elective plastic surgery; acute burns; clean contused lacerated wounds without bone exposure; high-risk contused lacerated wounds or with bone exposure; contused lacerated wound involving the oral mucosa; plastic surgery following human bite; plastic surgery following animal bite; plastic surgery with tissue expander insertion. Our Consensus document shows that antimicrobial perioperative prophylaxis in pediatric patients undergoing plastic surgery is recommended in selected cases. While waiting the results of further pediatric studies, the application of uniform and shared protocols in these procedures will improve surgical practice, with a reduction in SSIs and consequent rationalization of resources and costs, as well as limiting the phenomenon of antimicrobial resistance.
Association of Antibiotic Use during the First 6 Months of Life with Body Mass of Children
Authors: Kwak Ji Hee , Lee Seung Won , Lee Jung Eun , Ha Eun Kyo , Baek Hey-Sung , Lee Eun , Kim Ju Hee , Han Man Yong
Published: April 2022

In this study, our objective was to assess the association of body mass in preschool children with the use of antibiotics within 6 months after birth. National administrative databases were used to examine all children born between 2008 and 2009 in Korea. Exposure was defined as the use of systemic antibiotics during the first 6 months of age. The observed outcomes were stunting (height for age [HFA] z score < −2.0), short stature (HFA z score < −1.64), overweight (body mass index [BMI] for age z score ≥ 1.04), and obesity (BMI for age z score ≥ 1.64), and the children’s height and body weight were measured from three to six years of age. To balance characteristics between the antibiotic user and non-user groups, propensity score matching was performed. The outcomes were evaluated using a generalized estimation equation with the logit link function. Analysis of antibiotic use by children during the first 6 months of life indicated there were 203,073 users (54.9%) and 166,505 non-users (45.1%). After PS matching, there were 72,983 antibiotic users and 72,983 non-users. Antibiotic use was significantly associated with stunting (aOR = 1.198, 95% CI = 1.056 to 1.360) and short stature (aOR = 1.043, 95% CI = 1.004 to 1.083), and had significant negative association with HFA z score (weighted β = −0.023). The use of an antibiotic for 14 days or more had a marked association with stunting. Antibiotic use was also associated with overweight, obesity, and increased BMI for age z score. Antibiotic use during the first 6 months of life increased the risk of stunting, short stature, overweight, and obesity in preschool children.
Ornipural® Mitigates Malathion-Induced Hepato-Renal Damage in Rats via Amelioration of Oxidative Stress Biomarkers, Restoration of Antioxidant Activity, and Attenuation of Inflammatory Response
Authors: El Okle Osama S. , Tohamy Hossam G. , Althobaiti Saed A. , Soliman Mohamed Mohamed , Ghamry Heba I. , Farrag Foad , Shukry Mustafa
Published: April 2022

The current study was instigated by investigating the ameliorative potential of Ornipural® solution against the hepato-renal toxicity of malathion. A total number of 35 male Wistar albino rats were divided equally into five groups. Group 1 served as control and received normal saline intraperitoneally. Group 2, the sham group, were administered only corn oil (vehicle of malathion) orally. Group 3 was orally intoxicated by malathion in corn oil at a dose of 135 mg/kg BW via intra-gastric gavage. Group 4 received malathion orally concomitantly with Ornipural® intraperitoneally. Group 5 was given Ornipural® solution in saline via intraperitoneal injection at a dose of (1 mL/kg BW). Animals received the treatment regime for 30 days. Histopathological examination revealed the harmful effect of malathion on hepatic and renal tissue. The results showed that malathion induced a significant decrease in body weight and marked elevation in the activity of liver enzymes, LDH, and ACP. In contrast, the activity of AchE and Paraoxonase was markedly decreased. Moreover, there was a significant increase in the serum content of bilirubin, cholesterol, and kidney injury markers. A significant elevation in malondialdehyde, nitric oxide (nitrite), and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine was observed, along with a substantial reduction in antioxidant activity. Furthermore, malathion increased tumor necrosis factor-alpha, the upregulation of IL-1B, BAX, and IFN-β genes, and the downregulation of Nrf2, Bcl2, and HO-1 genes. Concurrent administration of Ornipural® with malathion attenuated the detrimental impact of malathion through ameliorating metabolic biomarkers, restoring antioxidant activity, reducing the inflammatory response, and improving pathologic microscopic alterations. It could be concluded that Ornipural® solution demonstrates hepatorenal defensive impacts against malathion toxicity at biochemical, antioxidants, molecular, and cellular levels.
Melatonin Alleviates Copper Toxicity via Improving ROS Metabolism and Antioxidant Defense Response in Tomato Seedlings
Authors: Zhang Tao , Wang Yong , Ma Xiaojing , Ouyang Zhaopeng , Deng Lei , Shen Shunshan , Dong Xiaoxing , Du Nanshan , Dong Han , Guo Zhixin , Meng Geng , Piao Fengzhi , Sun Kaile
Published: April 2022

The excessive accumulation of copper (Cu2+) has become a threat to worldwide crop production. Recently, it was revealed that melatonin (MT) could play a crucial role against heavy metal (HM) stresses in plants. However, the underlying mechanism of MT function acted upon by Cu2+ stress (CS) has not been substantiated in tomatoes. In the present work, we produced MT-rich tomato plants by foliar usage of MT, and MT-deficient tomato plants by employing a virus-induced gene silencing methodology and exogenous foliar application of MT synthesis inhibitor para-chlorophenylalanine (pCPA). The obtained results indicate that exogenous MT meaningfully alleviated the dwarf phenotype and impeded the reduction in plant growth caused by excess Cu2+. Furthermore, MT effectively restricted the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and habilitated cellular integrity by triggering antioxidant enzyme activities, especially via CAT and APX, but not SOD and POD. In addition, MT increased nonenzymatic antioxidant activity, including FRAP and the GSH/GSSG and ASA/DHA ratios. MT usage improved the expression of several defense genes (CAT, APX, GR and MDHAR) and MT biosynthesis-related genes (TDC, SNAT and COMT). Taken together, our results preliminarily reveal that MT alleviates Cu2+ toxicity via ROS scavenging, enhancing antioxidant capacity when subjected to excessive Cu2+. These results build a solid foundation for developing new insights to solve problems related to CS.
Oxidative Stress Markers Are Associated with a Poor Prognosis in Patients with Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Ortega Miguel A. , Fraile-Martinez Oscar , Pekarek Leonel , García-Montero Cielo , Alvarez-Mon Miguel Angel , Castellanos Alejandro J. , García-Honduvilla Natalio , Buján Julia , Alvarez-Mon Melchor , Sáez Miguel A. , Guijarro Luis G. , Asúnsolo Angel
Published: April 2022

Pancreatic cancer is a malignancy of rising prevalence, especially in developed countries where dietary patterns and sedentariness favor its onset. This malady ranks seventh in cancer-related deaths in the world, although it is expected to rank second in the coming years, behind lung cancer. The low survival rate is due to the asymptomatic course of the early stages, which in many cases leads to metastases when becoming evident in advanced stages. In this context, molecular pathology is on the way towards finding new approaches with biomarkers that allow a better prognosis and monitoring of patients. So the present study aims to evaluate a series of molecular biomarkers, PARP1, NOX1, NOX2, eNOS and iNOS, as promising candidates for prognosis and survival by using immunohistochemistry. The analysis performed in 41 patients with pancreatic cancer showed a correlation between a high expression of all these components with a low survival rate, with high statistical power for all. In addition, a 60-month longitudinal surveillance program was managed, accompanied by several clinical parameters. The derivative Kaplan–Meier curves indicated a low cumulative survival rate as well. Ultimately, our research emphasized the value of these molecules as survival-associated biomarkers in pancreatic cancer, offering new gates for clinical management.
Metabolic Pathway of Natural Antioxidants, Antioxidant Enzymes and ROS Providence
Authors: Huchzermeyer Bernhard , Menghani Ekta , Khardia Pooja , Shilu Ayushi
Published: April 2022

Based on the origin, we can classify different types of stress. Environmental factors, such as high light intensity, adverse temperature, drought, or soil salinity, are summarized as abiotic stresses and discriminated from biotic stresses that are exerted by pathogens and herbivores, for instance. It was an unexpected observation that overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a common response to all kinds of stress investigated so far. With respect to applied aspects in agriculture and crop breeding, this observation allows using ROS production as a measure to rank the stress perception of individual plants. ROS are important messengers in cell signaling, but exceeding a concentration threshold causes damage. This requires fine-tuning of ROS production and degradation rates. In general, there are two options to control cellular ROS levels, (I) ROS scavenging at the expense of antioxidant consumption and (II) enzyme-controlled degradation of ROS. As antioxidants are limited in quantity, the first strategy only allows temporarily buffering of a certain cellular ROS level. This way, it prevents spells of eventually damaging ROS concentrations. In this review, we focus on the second strategy. We discuss how enzyme-controlled degradation of ROS integrates into plant metabolism. Enzyme activities can be continuously operative. Cellular homeostasis can be achieved by regulation of respective gene expression and subsequent regulation of the enzyme activities. A better understanding of this interplay allows for identifying traits for stress tolerance breeding of crops. As a side effect, the result also may be used to identify cultivation methods modifying crop metabolism, thus resulting in special crop quality.
A Copula-Based Attack Prediction Model for Vehicle-to-Grid Networks
Authors: Nonvignon Toffa Zidane , Boucif Amar Bensaber , Mhamed Mesfioui
Published: April 2022

The Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) networks are a part of the Smart Grid networks. Their primary goal is to recharge electric vehicles. These networks, as with any computer system, are facing cyber attacks. For example, during a charge or recharge process, V2G networks can be vulnerable to attacks such as Man-in-the-Middle (MitM), Denial of Service (DoS), identity theft, and rebound attacks. It is therefore up to us to offer innovative solutions in order to reduce threats as much as possible. In this paper, a model based on copulas to detect intrusion cases in V2G networks is proposed. To achieve this model, a database is generated first from three scenarios using tools including MiniV2G, Wireshark, and CICflowMeter. Then, significant variables are selected using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The classification algorithm is based on the notion of copulas constructed under the software R. From the obtained results, it emerges that the created model has a very high prediction rate of attacks in the aforementioned network.
CO2 Emissions Reduction through Increasing H2 Participation in Gaseous Combustible—Condensing Boilers Functional Response
Authors: Antonescu Nicolae N. , Stănescu Dan-Paul , Calotă Răzvan
Published: April 2022

Considering the imperative reduction in CO2 emissions, both from household heating and hot water producing facilities, one of the mainstream directions is to reduce hydrocarbons in combustibles by replacing them with hydrogen. The authors analyze condensing boilers operating when hydrogen is mixed with standard gaseous fuel (CH4). The hydrogen (H2) volumetric participation in the mixture is considered to vary in the range of 0 to 20%. The operation of the condensing boilers will be numerically modeled by computational programs and prior validated by experimental studies concluded in a European Certified Laboratory. The study concluded that an increase in the combustible flow with 16% will compensate the maximum H2 concentration situation with no other implications on the boiler’s thermal efficiency, together with a decrease in CO2 emissions by approximately 7%. By assuming 0.9 (to/year/boiler), the value of CO2 emissions reduction for the condensing boiler determined in the paper, and extrapolating it for the estimated number of boilers to be sold for the period 2019–2024, a 254,700-ton CO2/year reduction resulted.
Filtering Properties of Discrete and Continuous Elastic Systems in Series and Parallel
Authors: Sulis Silvia , Rakhimzhanova Anar , Brun Michele
Published: April 2022

Filtering properties and local energy distribution in different classes of periodic micro-structured elastic systems are analysed in this work. Out-of-plane wave propagation is considered in continuous and discrete elastic systems arranged in series and parallel. Filtering properties are determined from the analysis of dispersion diagrams and energy distribution within different phases in the representative unit cell. These are determined analytically by implementing a transfer matrix formalism. The analysis given in the work indicates quantitatively how to couple phases, having discrete and continuous nature, in order to tune wave propagation and energy localisation.
Air Annealing Process for Threshold Voltage Tuning of MoTe2 FET
Authors: Kim Soojin , Roh Yeeun , Choi Younguk , Jun Ah Hyun , Seo Hojun , Ju Byeong-Kwon
Published: April 2022

A stable doping technique for modifying the conduction behaviour of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial-based transistors is imperative for applications based on low-power complementary oxide thin-film transistors. Achieving an ambipolar feature with a controlled threshold voltage in both the p- and n-regimes is crucial for applying MoTe2-based devices as electronic devices because their native doping states are unipolar. In this study, a simple method to tune the threshold voltage of MoTe2 field-effect transistors (FETs) was investigated in order to realise an enhancement-mode MoTe2 thin-film transistor by implementing a facile method to modulate the carrier polarity based on the oxidative properties of MoTe2 FETs. Annealing in air induced a continuous p-doping effect in the devices without significant electrical degradation. Through a precise control of the duration and temperature of the post-annealing process, the tailoring technique induces hole doping, which results in a remarkable shift in transfer characteristics, thus leading to a charge neutrality point of the devices at zero gate bias. This study demonstrates the considerable potential of air heating as a reliable and economical post-processing method for precisely modifying the threshold voltage and further controlling the doping states of MoTe2-based FETs for use in logic inverters with 2D semiconductors.
A Convolution Neural Network-Based Representative Spatio-Temporal Documents Classification for Big Text Data
Authors: Kim Byoungwook , Yang Yeongwook , Park Ji Su , Jang Hong-Jun
Published: April 2022

With the proliferation of mobile devices, the amount of social media users and online news articles are rapidly increasing, and text information online is accumulating as big data. As spatio-temporal information becomes more important, research on extracting spatiotemporal information from online text data and utilizing it for event analysis is being actively conducted. However, if spatiotemporal information that does not describe the core subject of a document is extracted, it is rather difficult to guarantee the accuracy of core event analysis. Therefore, it is important to extract spatiotemporal information that describes the core topic of a document. In this study, spatio-temporal information describing the core topic of a document is defined as ‘representative spatio-temporal information’, and documents containing representative spatiotemporal information are defined as ‘representative spatio-temporal documents’. We proposed a character-level Convolution Neuron Network (CNN)-based document classifier to classify representative spatio-temporal documents. To train the proposed CNN model, 7400 training data were constructed for representative spatio-temporal documents. The experimental results show that the proposed CNN model outperforms traditional machine learning classifiers and existing CNN-based classifiers.
Part 2: Stabilization/Containment of Radiological Particle Contamination to Enhance First Responder, Early Phase Worker, and Public Safety
Authors: Magnuson Matthew , Stilman Terry , Serre Shannon , Archer John , James Ryan , Xia Xiaoyan , Lawrence Mitchell , Tamargo Erin , Raveh-Amit Hadas , Sharon Avi
Published: April 2022

The application of stabilization technologies to a radiologically contaminated surface has the potential for reducing the spread of contamination and, as a result, decreasing worker exposure to radiation. Three stabilization technologies, calcium chloride (CaCl2), flame retardant Phos-Chek® MVP-Fx, and Soil2OTM were investigated to evaluate their ability to reduce the resuspension and tracking of radiological contamination during response activities such as vehicle and foot traffic. Concrete pavers, asphalt pavers, and sandy soil walking paths were used as test surfaces, along with simulated fallout material (SFM) tagged with radiostrontium (Sr-85) applied as the contaminant. Radiological activities were measured using gamma spectrometry before and after simulated vehicle operation and foot traffic experiments, conducted with each stabilization technology and without application as a nonstabilized control. These measurements were acquired separately for each combination of surface and vehicle/foot traffic experiment. The resulting data describes the extent of SFM removed from each surface onto the tires or boots, the extent of SFM transferred to adjacent surfaces, and the residual SFM remaining on the tires or boots after each experiment. The type of surface and response worker actions influenced the stabilization results. For instance, when walked over, less than 2% of particles were removed from nonstabilized concrete, 4% from asphalt, and 40% of the particles were removed from the sand surface. By contrast, for vehicle experiments, ~40% of particles were again removed from the sand, but 7% and 15% from concrete and asphalt, respectively. In most cases, the stabilization technologies did provide improved stabilization. The improvement was related to the type of surface, worker actions, and stabilizer; a statistical analysis of these variables is presented. Overall, the results suggest an ability to utilize these technologies during the planning and implementation of response activities involving foot and vehicle traffic. In addition, resuspension of aerosolizable range SFM was monitored during walking path foot traffic experiments, and all stabilizing agents decreased the measured radioactivity, with the Soil2OTM decrease being 3 fold, whereas the CaCl2 and Phos-Chek MVP-Fx surfaces generated no detectable radioactivity. Overall, these results suggest that the stabilization technologies decrease the availability of particles respirable by response workers under these conditions.
Research on Speed and Acceleration of Hand Movements as Command Signals for Anthropomorphic Manipulators as a Master-Slave System
Authors: Cieślik Karol , Łopatka Marian J.
Published: April 2022

Due to threats to human safety, remotely controlled manipulators are more and more often used to carry out rescue tasks in hazardous zones. To ensure high efficiency and productivity of their work, intuitive control systems are necessary, e.g., master-slave and drive systems that maximize the speed of working movements by copying the movements of the operator’s hands and are adapted to human perception and capabilities. Proper design of manipulator drive and control systems, therefore, requires knowledge of the acceleration and velocity of hand movements as signals controlling manipulators. This paper presents the results of tests of speed and acceleration in the implementation of the hand when making precise movements and moving objects over short distances (0.4–0.5 m) and during relatively long-distance reaching movements (0.73–0.93 m). Research has shown that, at short distances, the hand movements do not reach the maximum speed, while at longer distances, there is a period of constant maximal speed. In addition, studies have shown that the maximum speed of manipulation movements (longitudinal, lateral, and vertical) does not depend on the direction of movement. Moreover, precise movements were performed at a much slower velocity than reaching movements.
Continuous Rotor Dynamics of Multi-Disc and Multi-Span Rotors: A Theoretical and Numerical Investigation of the Identification of Rotor Unbalance from Unbalance Responses
Authors: Wang Aiming , Bi Yujie , Feng Yu , Yang Jie , Cheng Xiaohan , Meng Guoying
Published: April 2022

Rotor unbalance identification plays a critical role in balancing rotors. In this paper, concerned with multi-disc and multi-span rotor-bearing systems, two novel algorithms called the Single Direction Algorithm (SDA) and the Two Orthogonal Direction Algorithm (TODA) are proposed for identifying rotor unbalance from unbalance responses. A matrix method is proposed to solve the problem of the equations being non-linear transcendental, there being too many unknown variables in the equations, and rotor unbalances and bearing coefficients being coupled together. The unbalance responses at all the eccentric discs are necessary for identifying their unbalances. Numerical simulations are conducted to validate the proposed methods. Moreover, an adjustment point is found, and a proper sensor resolution is suggested to achieve high identification accuracy by means of numerical studies. In addition, the identification accuracy of SDA is better than TODA, and SDA is more practical and suitable for medium-speed and high-speed rotors. The proposed algorithms have the flexibility to incorporate any number of bearings and discs and provide a technique for monitoring rotor unbalance without test runs or external exciters.
Design Optimization Method of Feet-Lock Steel Pipe for Soft-Rock Tunnel Based on Load-Deformation Coordination
Authors: Wu Yimin , Tian Changqing , Xu Peng , Zhao Zhizhong , Zhang Jiawei , Wang Sijie
Published: April 2022

Feet-lock steel pipes have been widely applied in soft-rock tunnels, but their installation quantity and parameters depend on engineering experience. In this study, by simplifying the force between the feet-lock steel pipe and the primary lining, the load-deformation characteristics were analyzed separately, and inconsistent deformation was revealed. Next, combined with the passive and active bearing scheme, a design optimization method for feet-lock steel pipes was proposed under two working conditions, including the predicted large deformation and observed large deformation before the primary lining construction. Finally, the design method was applied to the Yulinzi Tunnel, and the results show that the original design of the feet-lock steel pipes could not meet the requirements of the controlling settlement. After the optimized design, both the passive bearing scheme installing two ϕ108 × 3-millimeter steel pipes and the active bearing scheme installing one ϕ108 × 4-millimeter steel pipe could meet the requirements of the controlling settlement. The active bearing design can significantly reduce the amount of steel required and the engineering cost. The scientificity and feasibility of the design optimization method were proven by the on-site monitoring and measurement.
Erratum: Born et al. Accelerating Detection of Lung Pathologies with Explainable Ultrasound Image Analysis. Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 672
Authors: Born Jannis , Wiedemann Nina , Cossio Manuel , Buhre Charlotte , Brändle Gabriel , Leidermann Konstantin , Goulet Julie , Aujayeb Avinash , Moor Michael , Rieck Bastian , Borgwardt Karsten
Published: April 2022

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [...]
Experimental Investigation of Concrete Sandwich Walls with Glass-Fiber-Composite Connectors Exposed to Fire and Mechanical Loading
Authors: Haffke Marcin , Pahn Matthias , Thiele Catherina , Grzesiak Szymon
Published: April 2022

Precast concrete sandwich panels (PCSPs) are known for their good thermal, acoustic and structural properties. Severe environmental demands can be met by PCSPs due to their use of highly thermally insulating materials and non-metallic connectors. One of the main issues limiting the wider use of sandwich walls in construction is their unknown fire resistance. Furthermore, the actual behaviour of connectors and insulation in fire in terms of their mechanical performance and their impact on fire spread and the fire resistance of walls is not fully understood. This paper presents an experimental investigation on the structural and thermal behaviour of PCSPs with mineral-wool insulation and glass-fiber-reinforced polymeric bar connectors coupling two concrete wythes. Three full-size walls were tested following the REI certification test procedure for fire walls under fire and vertical eccentric and post-fire mechanical impact load. The three test configurations were adopted for the assessment of the connectors’ fire behaviour and its impact on the general fire resistance of the walls. All the specimens met the REI 120-M criteria. The connectors did not contribute to the fire’s spread and the integrity of the walls was maintained throughout the testing time. This was also confirmed in the most unfavourable test configuration, in which some of the connectors in the inner area of the wall were significantly damaged, and yet the structural connection of the concrete wythes was maintained. The walls experienced heavy heat-induced thermal bowing. The significant contribution of connectors to the stiffness of the wall during fire was observed and discussed.
Momentum Halo in The Rayleigh Scattering by a Bose–Einstein Condensate
Authors: Piovella Nicola
Published: April 2022

A ring of radius ℏk0 in the momentum distribution of a Bose–Einstein condensate is visible when the atoms scatter a single photon. Here, we describe an approximated theory of this effect, leading to an analytic expression of the isotropic momentum scattering rate.
Validation of the LittlEARS® Questionnaire in Hearing Maltese-Speaking Children
Authors: Miggiani Pauline , Coninx Frans , Schaefer Karolin
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To adapt the LittlEARS® Auditory Questionnaire into the Maltese language and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Maltese version of the questionnaire for hearing children. Methods: The English version of LittlEARS® Auditory Questionnaire was adapted into Maltese using a translation/back translation procedure. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 398 parents of normal hearing children aged between 5 days and 36 months completed the Maltese version of LittlEARS®. Psychometric validation was performed through scale analysis, item analysis, and analysis of reliability and validity. A non-linear regression model was derived to obtain normative data for expected and minimum values of total scores from the questionnaire according to age. Results: Predictive accuracy (Guttman’s lambda) was 0.921, the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient value was 0.921, and the split-half reliability coefficient was 0.949. The Pearson correlation coefficient between scores and age was 0.903. The regression analysis showed that 82% of the variance in the total scores can be explained by age. Norm curves were comparable to the original German data. Conclusion: This study confirmed that the Maltese version of LittlEARS® is a valid and reliable tool to evaluate auditory development in children less than two years of age.
Age at Menarche in Urban Girls Exposed to Lead in the Copper Basin, Poland
Authors: Gomula Aleksandra , Nowak-Szczepanska Natalia , Sebastjan Anna , Kozieł Sławomir M. , Malina Robert M. , Ignasiak Zofia
Published: April 2022

Lead negatively affects human growth and development. In this research, we aimed to assess the effect of elevated blood lead level on age at menarche (AM), controlling for body mass index (BMI) and estimated fatness. The sample included 490 girls aged 7–16 examined in Polkowice town (Copper Basin, Poland) in 2008. Measurements included height, weight, skinfold thicknesses and estimated percentage of body fat. AM was assessed using the status quo method. Blood samples were taken for lead level assessment. Two groups were defined based on the median blood lead level for the total sample of children (3.7 µg/dL). Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between AM and independent variables. The results indicated that menarche in the higher blood lead level group was significantly later compared to the lower blood lead level group (p < 0.01). This relationship remained only marginally significant when BMI (p < 0.10), sum of skinfolds (p < 0.09) or percentage of fat (p < 0.08) were controlled. The results revealed that a lower blood lead level (3.7 µg/dL) than the currently acceptable threshold (5 µg/dL) is related to a later AM; however, this relationship is moderated by body fatness, which may decrease its significance.