bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Flowsheet Simulation Methodology to Improve Productivity and Sustainability of Porcelain Tile Manufacturing
Authors: Alves Carine Lourenco , Skorych Vasyl , De Noni Jr. Agenor , Hotza Dachamir , González Sergio Yesid Gómez , Heinrich Stefan
Published: January 2023

Porcelain tile manufacturing is an energy-intensive industry that is in dire need of increasing productivity, minimizing costs, and reducing CO2 emissions, while keeping the product quality intact to remain competitive in today’s environment. In this contribution, alternative processing parameters for the porcelain tile production sequence were proposed based on simulation-based process optimization. Flowsheet simulations in the Dyssol framework were used to study the impact of the milling and firing process parameters on the electrical and thermal energy consumption, final product quality, and productivity of the entire processing sequence. For this purpose, a new model of gas flow consumption in the sintering stage was proposed and implemented. During optimization, the primary condition was to maintain the product quality by keeping the final open porosity of the tile within the specified industrial range. The proposed simulation methodology proved to be effective in predicting the influence of the processing parameters on the intermediate and final products of the manufacturing sequence, as well as in estimating the production costs for the Brazilian and Spanish economic conditions. This approach has shown great potential to promote digitalization and establish digital twins in ceramic tile manufacturing for further in-line process control.
Two-Dimensional Magnetotelluric Parallel-Constrained-Inversion Using Artificial-Fish-Swarm Algorithm
Authors: Hu Zuzhi , Shi Yanling , Liu Xuejun , He Zhanxiang , Xu Ligui , Mi Xiaoli , Liu Juan
Published: January 2023

An important way to improve the resolution of electromagnetic exploration is by using known seismic and logging data. Based on previous work, 2D magnetotelluric (MT) parallel-constrained-inversion, based on an artificial-fish-swarm algorithm is further developed. The finite-difference (FD) method with paralleling frequency is used for 2D MT-forward-modeling, to improve computational efficiency. The results of the FD and finite-element (FE) methods show that the accuracy of FD is comparable to FE in the case of suitable mesh-generation; however, the calculation speed is ten times faster than that of the FE. The artificial-fish-swarm algorithm is introduced and applied to parallel-constrained-inversion of 2D MT data. The results of the synthetic-model test show that the artificial-fish-swarm-inversion based on paralleling forward can recover the model well and effectively improve the inversion speed. The processing and interpretation results of the field data are verified by drilling, which shows that the proposed inversion-method has good practicability.
Gated Recurrent Fuzzy Neural Network Sliding Mode Control of a Micro Gyroscope
Authors: Xie Jiapeng , Fei Juntao , An Cuicui
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes a non-singular fast terminal sliding mode control (NFTSMC) method for micro gyroscopes with unknown uncertainty based on gated recurrent fuzzy neural networks (GRFNNs). First, taking advantage of non-singular fast terminal sliding control, a sliding hyperplane is designed with a nonlinear function to ensure that the tracking error of the system converges to zero within a specified finite time. Then, the unknown model parameters of the micro gyroscope are estimated using a GRFNN. Since the GRFNN can adaptively adjust the base width, center vector, gated recurrent unit parameters, and outer gains, it can achieve accurate approximation to unknown models, enhancing the robustness and accuracy. In addition, due to the introduction of gated recurrent units, The GRFNN can effectively utilize the previous data and avoid the problem of gradient disappearance. The comparison of the simulation results with traditional neural sliding mode control shows that the proposed method can achieve better tracking performance and more accurate estimation of unknown models.
A Novel Context-Aware Reliable Routing Protocol and SVM Implementation in Vehicular Area Networks
Authors: Sindhwani Manoj , Sachdeva Shippu , Gupta Akhil , Tanwar Sudeep , Alqahtani Fayez , Tolba Amr , Raboaca Maria Simona
Published: January 2023

The Vehicular Ad-hoc Network (VANET) is an innovative technology that allows vehicles to connect with neighboring roadside structures to deliver intelligent transportation applications. To deliver safe communication among vehicles, a reliable routing approach is required. Due to the excessive mobility and frequent variation in network topology, establishing a reliable routing for VANETs takes a lot of work. In VANETs, transmission links are extremely susceptible to interruption; as a result, the routing efficiency of these constantly evolving networks requires special attention. To promote reliable routing in VANETs, we propose a novel context-aware reliable routing protocol that integrates k-means clustering and support vector machine (SVM) in this paper. The k-means clustering divides the routes into two clusters named GOOD and BAD. The cluster with high mean square error (MSE) is labelled as BAD, and the cluster with low MSE is labelled as GOOD. After training the routing data with SVM, the performance of each route from source to target is improved in terms of Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR), throughput, and End to End Delay (E2E). The proposed protocol will achieve improved routing efficiency with these changes.
Tailings Pond Classification Based on Satellite Images and Machine Learning: An Exploration of Microsoft ML.Net
Authors: Yu Haoxuan , Zahidi Izni
Published: January 2023

Mine pollution from mining activities is often widely recognised as a serious threat to public health, with mine solid waste causing problems such as tailings pond accumulation, which is considered the biggest hidden danger. The construction of tailings ponds not only causes land occupation and vegetation damage but also brings about potential environmental pollution, such as water and dust pollution, posing a health risk to nearby residents. If remote sensing images and machine learning techniques could be used to determine whether a tailings pond might have potential pollution and safety hazards, mainly monitoring tailings ponds that may have potential hazards, it would save a lot of effort in tailings ponds monitoring. Therefore, based on this background, this paper proposes to classify tailings ponds into two categories according to whether they are potentially risky or generally safe and to classify tailings ponds with remote sensing satellite images of tailings ponds using the DDN + ResNet-50 machine learning model based on ML.Net developed by Microsoft. In the discussion section, the paper introduces the environmental hazards of mine pollution and proposes the concept of “Healthy Mine” to provide development directions for mining companies and solutions to mine pollution and public health crises. Finally, we claim this paper serves as a guide to begin a conversation and to encourage experts, researchers and scholars to engage in the research field of mine solid waste pollution monitoring, assessment and treatment.
Accurate Approximation of the Matrix Hyperbolic Cosine Using Bernoulli Polynomials
Authors: Alonso José M. , Ibáñez Javier , Defez Emilio , Alvarruiz Fernando
Published: January 2023

This paper presents three different alternatives to evaluate the matrix hyperbolic cosine using Bernoulli matrix polynomials, comparing them from the point of view of accuracy and computational complexity. The first two alternatives are derived from two different Bernoulli series expansions of the matrix hyperbolic cosine, while the third one is based on the approximation of the matrix exponential by means of Bernoulli matrix polynomials. We carry out an analysis of the absolute and relative forward errors incurred in the approximations, deriving corresponding suitable values for the matrix polynomial degree and the scaling factor to be used. Finally, we use a comprehensive matrix testbed to perform a thorough comparison of the alternative approximations, also taking into account other current state-of-the-art approaches. The most accurate and efficient options are identified as results.
Implementation and Performance Analysis of Kalman Filters with Consistency Validation
Authors: Jwo Dah-Jing , Biswal Amita
Published: January 2023

This paper provides a useful supplement note for implementing the Kalman filters. The material presented in this work points out several significant highlights with emphasis on performance evaluation and consistency validation between the discrete Kalman filter (DKF) and the continuous Kalman filter (CKF). Several important issues are delivered through comprehensive exposition accompanied by supporting examples, both qualitatively and quantitatively for implementing the Kalman filter algorithms. The lesson learned assists the readers to capture the basic principles of the topic and enables the readers to better interpret the theory, understand the algorithms, and correctly implement the computer codes for further study on the theory and applications of the topic. A wide spectrum of content is covered from theoretical to implementation aspects, where the DKF and CKF along with the theoretical error covariance check based on Riccati and Lyapunov equations are involved. Consistency check of performance between discrete and continuous Kalman filters enables readers to assure correctness on implementing and coding for the algorithm. The tutorial-based exposition presented in this article involves the materials from a practical usage perspective that can provide profound insights into the topic with an appropriate understanding of the stochastic process and system theory.
The Meshfree Radial Point Interpolation Method (RPIM) for Wave Propagation Dynamics in Non-Homogeneous Media
Authors: Liu Cong , Min Shaosong , Pang Yandong , Chai Yingbin
Published: January 2023

This work presents a novel simulation approach to couple the meshfree radial point interpolation method (RPIM) with the implicit direct time integration method for the transient analysis of wave propagation dynamics in non-homogeneous media. In this approach, the RPIM is adopted for the discretization of the overall space domain, while the discretization of the time domain is completed by employing the efficient Bathe time stepping scheme. The dispersion analysis demonstrates that, in wave analysis, the amount of numerical dispersion error resulting from the discretization in the space domain can be suppressed at a very low level when the employed nodal support domain of the interpolation function is adequately large. Meanwhile, it is also mathematically shown that the amount of numerical error resulting from the time domain discretization is actually a monotonically decreasing function of the non-dimensional time domain discretization interval. Consequently, the present simulation approach is capable of effectively handling the transient analysis of wave propagation dynamics in non-homogeneous media, and the disparate waves with different speeds can be solved concurrently with very high computation accuracy. This numerical feature makes the present simulation approach more suitable for complicated wave analysis than the traditional finite element approach because the waves with disparate speeds always cannot be concurrently solved accurately. Several numerical tests are given to check the performance of the present simulation approach for the analysis of wave propagation dynamics in non-homogeneous media.
An improved Fractional MPPT Method by Using a Small Circle Approximation of the P–V Characteristic Curve
Authors: Bárcenas-Bárcenas Ernesto , Espinoza-Trejo Diego R. , Pecina-Sánchez José A. , Álvarez-Macías Héctor A. , Compeán-Martínez Isaac , Vértiz-Hernández Ángel A.
Published: January 2023

This paper presents an analytical solution to the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) problem for photovoltaic (PV) applications in the form of an improved fractional method. The proposal makes use of a mathematical function that describes the relationship between power and voltage in a PV module in a neighborhood including the maximum power point (MPP). The function is generated by using only three points of the P–V curve. Next, by using geometrical relationships, an analytical value for the MPP can be obtained. The advantage of the proposed technique is that it provides an explicit mathematical expression for calculation of the voltage at the maximum power point (vMPP) with high accuracy. Even more, complex calculations, manufacturer data, the measurements of short circuit current (iSC) and open-circuit voltage (vOC) are not required, making the proposal less invasive than other solutions. The proposed method is validated using the P–V curve of one PV module. Experimental work demonstrates the speed in the calculation of vMPP and the feasibility of the proposed solution. In addition, this MPPT proposal requires only the typical and available measurements, namely, PV voltage and current. Consequently, the proposed method could be implemented in most PV applications.
Mechanical Stability of the Heterogenous Bilayer Solid Electrolyte Interphase in the Electrodes of Lithium–Ion Batteries
Authors: Ali Yasir , Iqbal Noman , Shah Imran , Lee Seungjun
Published: January 2023

Mechanical stability of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is crucial to mitigate the capacity fade of lithium–ion batteries because the rupture of the SEI layer results in further consumption of lithium ions in newly generated SEI layers. The SEI is known as a heterogeneous bilayer and consists of an inner inorganic layer connecting the particle and an outer organic layer facing the electrolyte. The growth of the bilayer SEI over cycles alters the stress generation and failure possibility of both the organic and inorganic layers. To investigate the probability of mechanical failure of the bilayer SEI, we developed the electrochemical-mechanical coupled model with the core–double-shell particle/SEI layer model. The growth of the bilayer SEI is considered over cycles. Our results show that during charging, the stress of the particle changes from tensile to compressive as the thickness of bilayer SEI increases. On the other hand, in the SEI layers, large compressive radial and tensile tangential stress are generated. During discharging, the compressive radial stress of the bilayer SEI transforms into tensile radial stress. The tensile tangential and radial stresses are responsible for the fracture and debonding of the bilayer SEI, respectively. As the thickness ratio of the inorganic to organic layers increases, the fracture probability of the inorganic layer increases, while that of the organic layer decreases. However, the debonding probability of both layers is decreased. In addition, the SEI covering large particles is more vulnerable to fracture, while that covering small particles is more susceptible to debonding. Therefore, tailoring the thickness ratio of the inorganic to organic layers and particle size is important to reduce the fracture and debonding of the heterogeneous bilayer SEI.
Dinophysis acuminata or Dinophysis acuta: What Makes the Difference in Highly Stratified Fjords?
Authors: Baldrich Ángela , Díaz Patricio , Álvarez Gonzalo , Pérez-Santos Iván , Schwerter Camila , Díaz Manuel , Araya Michael , Nieves María , Rodríguez-Villegas Camilo , Barrera Facundo , Fernández-Pena Concepción , Arenas-Uribe Sara , Navarro Pilar , Reguera Beatriz
Published: January 2023

Dinophysis acuminata and D. acuta, which follows it seasonally, are the main producers of lipophilic toxins in temperate coastal waters, including Southern Chile. Strains of the two species differ in their toxin profiles and impacts on shellfish resources. D. acuta is considered the major cause of diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP) outbreaks in Southern Chile, but there is uncertainty about the toxicity of D. acuminata, and little information on microscale oceanographic conditions promoting their blooms. During the austral summer of 2020, intensive sampling was carried out in two northern Patagonian fjords, Puyuhuapi (PUY) and Pitipalena (PIT), sharing D. acuminata dominance and D. acuta near detection levels. Dinophysistoxin 1 (DTX 1) and pectenotoxin 2 (PTX 2) were present in all net tow samples but OA was not detected. Although differing in hydrodynamics and sampling dates, D. acuminata shared behavioural traits in the two fjords: cell maxima (>103 cells L−1) in the interface (S ~ 21) between the estuarine freshwater (EFW)) and saline water (ESW) layers; and phased-cell division (µ = 0.3–0.4 d−1) peaking after dawn, and abundance of ciliate prey. Niche analysis (Outlying Mean Index, OMI) of D. acuta with a high marginality and much lower tolerance than D. acuminata indicated an unfavourable physical environment for D. acuta (bloom failure). Comparison of toxin profiles and Dinophysis niches in three contrasting years in PUY—2020 (D. acuminata bloom), 2018 (exceptional bloom of D. acuta), and 2019 (bloom co-occurrence of the two species)—shed light on the vertical gradients which promote each species. The presence of FW (S < 11) and thermal inversion may be used to provide short-term forecasts of no risk of D. acuta blooms and OA occurrence, but D. acuminata associated with DTX 1 pose a risk of DSP events in North Patagonian fjords.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Medicina in 2022
Authors:   Medicina Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Empirical Evaluation of the Possible Contribution of Group Practice of the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi Program to Reduction in Drug-Related Mortality
Authors: Dillbeck Michael C. , Cavanaugh Kenneth L.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: CDC data indicate that the U.S. is experiencing a sustained epidemic of drug-related mortality, with such deaths exceeding a record 100,000 in 2021, up 47% from 2019. Opioids, especially the synthetic opioid fentanyl, account for approximately 75% of this mortality. This study evaluates a proposed Consciousness-Based® approach that may possibly help reduce trends in drug-related fatalities by mitigating what WHO refers to as an “epidemic of stress” in society that helps fuel drug misuse and other negative public health trends. This approach involves providing support in public and private sector public health initiatives for individual and group practice of a subjective, evidence-based meditation procedure suitable for those of all educational, cultural, and religious backgrounds: the Transcendental Meditation® (TM®) technique and its advanced aspect, the TM-Sidhi® program. Materials and Methods: Segmented-trend regression analysis of monthly CDC data on U.S. drug-related fatality rates (dfr) from a prospective social experiment (2002–2016) was used to replicate and extend prior peer-reviewed research. Results: As hypothesized, (1) practice of the TM and TM-Sidhi program by a group of theoretically predicted size (√1% of the U.S. population) was associated with a statistically and practically significant reduction in dfr trend during the five-year “demonstration period” of the quasi-experiment; and (2) monthly dfr trend subsequently increased during the five-year follow-up period when the group fell below the required size (both p’s < 0.0001). The estimated total percent decrease in dfr during the demonstration period was 35.5%, calculated relative to the baseline mean. This decline was followed by total dfr increases of 11.8% and 47.4% relative to the demonstration-period mean during the two phases of the follow-up period. Conclusion: Existing evidence warrants implementation and further evaluation of this approach in U.S. public health initiatives.
COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Effectiveness against Elderly Frail People
Authors: Kountouras Jannis , Tzitiridou-Chatzopoulou Maria , Papaefthymiou Apostolis , Chatzopoulos Dimitrios , Doulberis Michael
Published: January 2023

The frail, elderly population is often characterized by poor immunogenicity post COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. “Inflame-ageing” and “immune-senescence” are pathogenetic mechanisms that might explain this phenomenon. Complex interplay with cytokines and microbiota is also implicated in this inflammatory cascade. The abovementioned population, although very important from immunologic perspective, has barely been included in the mRNA vaccination clinical trials.
The Blessed Union of Glycobiology and Immunology: A Marriage That Worked
Authors: dos Reis Jhenifer Santos , Diniz-Lima Israel , Santos Marcos André Rodrigues da Costa , Barcelos Pedro Marçal , da Costa Kelli Monteiro , Valente Raphael do Carmo , Chaves Lorrane de Souza , de Campos Luma Petel , dos Santos Ariely Costa , Correia de Lima Rafaela Gomes , Decote-Ricardo Debora , Morrot Alexandre , Previato Jose Osvaldo , Mendonça-Previato Lucia , Freire-de-Lima Celio Geraldo , Fonseca Leonardo Marques da , Freire-de-Lima Leonardo
Published: January 2023

In this article, we discuss the main aspects regarding the recognition of cell surface glycoconjugates and the immunomodulation of responses against the progression of certain pathologies, such as cancer and infectious diseases. In the first part, we talk about different aspects of glycoconjugates and delve deeper into the importance of N-glycans in cancer immunotherapy. Then, we describe two important lectin families that have been very well studied in the last 20 years. Examples include the sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin (Ig)-like lectins (siglecs), and galectins. Finally, we discuss a topic that needs to be better addressed in the field of glycoimmunology: the impact of oncofetal antigens on the cells of the immune system. New findings in this area are of great importance for advancement, especially in the field of oncology, since it is already known that cellular interactions mediated by carbohydrate–carbohydrate and/or carbohydrate proteins are able to modulate the progression of different types of cancer in events that compromise the functionality of the immune responses.
Membranes Coated with Graphene-Based Materials: A Review
Authors: Gkika Despina A. , Karmali Vasiliki , Lambropoulou Dimitra A. , Mitropoulos Athanasios C. , Kyzas George Z.
Published: January 2023

Graphene is a popular material with outstanding properties due to its single layer. Graphene and its oxide have been put to the test as nano-sized building components for separation membranes with distinctive structures and adjustable physicochemical attributes. Graphene-based membranes have exhibited excellent water and gas purification abilities, which have garnered the spotlight over the past decade. This work aims to examine the most recent science and engineering cutting-edge advances of graphene-based membranes in regard to design, production and use. Additional effort will be directed towards the breakthroughs in synthesizing graphene and its composites to create various forms of membranes, such as nanoporous layers, laminates and graphene-based compounds. Their efficiency in separating and decontaminating water via different techniques such as cross-linking, layer by layer and coating will also be explored. This review intends to offer comprehensive, up-to-date information that will be useful to scientists of multiple disciplines interested in graphene-based membranes.
Molecular Simulation of Pervaporation on Polyurethane Membranes
Authors: Anashkin Ivan P. , Klinov Alexander V. , Davletbaeva Ilsiya M.
Published: January 2023

This article discusses a molecular simulation of membrane processes for the separation of liquid mixtures during pervaporation. A method for simulating the structure of polyurethane membranes was developed. The method was based on the known mechanisms of the formation of macromolecules from constituent monomers. For the formation of a chemical bond between the monomers, values of the parameters of the potentials of intermolecular interactions were set so that bonds were formed only between the corresponding atoms. The algorithm was validated to produce polymer films from diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and amino ethers of boric acid (AEBA). The polymer film obtained according to the developed algorithm was used to study the adsorption of ethanol and water. The concentration distributions of the components inside the polymer film were obtained for films of various thicknesses. Modifications of the DCV-GCMD method were proposed for the molecular simulation of pervaporation. The algorithm was based on maintaining a constant density of the mixture in the control volume. After the molecules were added to the control volume, thermodynamic equilibrium was established. During this process, molecules moved only in the control volume, while the rest of the molecules were fixed. The proposed algorithm was used to calculate the flows of water and ethanol through the polymer film.
Mathematical Analysis on Current–Voltage Relations via Classical Poisson–Nernst–Planck Systems with Nonzero Permanent Charges under Relaxed Electroneutrality Boundary Conditions
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Zhang Lijun , Zhang Mingji
Published: January 2023

We focus on a quasi-one-dimensional Poisson–Nernst–Planck model with small permanent charges for ionic flows of two oppositely charged ion species through an ion channel. Of particular interest is to examine the dynamics of ionic flows in terms of I–V (current–voltage) relations with boundary layers due to the relaxation of neutral conditions on boundary concentrations. This is achieved by employing the regular perturbation analysis on the solutions established through geometric singular perturbation analysis. Rich dynamics are observed, particularly, the nonlinear interplays among different physical parameters are characterized. Critical potentials are identified, which play critical roles in the study of ionic flows and can be estimated experimentally. Numerical simulations are performed to further illustrate and provide more intuitive understandings of our analytical results.
Recent Development of Low-Cost β-Ti Alloys for Biomedical Applications: A Review
Authors: Senopati Galih , Rahman Rashid Rizwan Abdul , Kartika Ika , Palanisamy Suresh
Published: January 2023

The necessity for biomedical components is increasing every year. However, Ti6Al4V, the most widely utilized titanium alloy for biomedical implants are very costly owing to the high price of V alloying element. Furthermore, both alloying elements Al and V, have adverse effects in human body which is not desirable. This review paper highlights significant findings on alloy design using low-cost alloying elements, their processing routes, and their relationship to microstructural, mechanical, and biological properties. Mo, Fe, Mn, Zr, and Cu were identified as low-cost alloying elements and fabrication of titanium alloys with these elements are usually carried out using arc melting, investment casting, powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing, diffusion couple, and thermomechanical processing. Several processing routes can be chosen to obtain optimum properties such as β-phase titanium alloy structure, low elastic modulus, and high strength. Alloy design, post-heat treatment process, and fatigue test for newly developed alloys are research that can be carried out in the future for the development of new titanium materials that are safe for human use and at a more affordable price.
The Influence of Creep Ageing on the Hardening Behavior and Microstructure of 7050 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Yang Yo-Lun , Chung Tsai-Fu , Ali Md Sadique , Dilshad  , Zhao Pengjing
Published: January 2023

The creep ageing process can have a significant influence on the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys. In the present work, microstructural analysis and mechanical testing were implemented to characterize the age hardening effect and microstructure evolution, and to investigate how the stress applied under creep ageing conditions can affect a material’s microstructure. The curves depicting yield strength in relation to creep ageing time suggested that the stress applied in creep ageing can result in a reduction of the strength of aluminum alloy 7050; the yield strength decreases with increasing applied stress. Microstructural analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that by applying stress, the growth and coarsening rate of the Guinier-Preston (GP) zones and η′ precipitates can be sped up. Even after pure/creep ageing for 8 h, there are still some GP zones in the aluminum matrix, demonstrating that the GP zones’ nucleation is a continuous process.
Pregnancy Toxemia in Ewes: A Review of Molecular Metabolic Mechanisms and Management Strategies
Authors: Ji Xiaoyu , Liu Ning , Wang Yuqin , Ding Ke , Huang Shucheng , Zhang Cai
Published: January 2023

Pregnancy toxemia is a nutritional metabolic disease during late gestation in small ruminants. The condition is characterized by disorders in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Obese and multiparous ewes are particularly susceptible to pregnancy toxemia, which may lead to maternal death, abortion, or premature birth. Highly productive multiparous meat ewes are major breeding animals, which has led to an increased incidence of the disease. However, the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia remains unclear and adequate disease prevention and treatment strategies are absent. Investigating the pathogenesis of pregnancy toxemia, especially the metabolic pathways of hepatic lipids, is key to an improved understanding of the condition. This review provides a snapshot of the genes that are associated with lipid metabolism in the ovine liver, including genes involved in fatty acid oxidation, acetyl coenzyme metabolism, and triglyceride synthesis; describes the interrelationships between these genes; and summarizes the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of pregnancy toxemia.
Fabrication of Multi-Material Pneumatic Actuators and Microactuators Using Stereolithography
Authors: Song Qingchuan , Chen Yunong , Hou Peilong , Zhu Pang , Helmer Dorothea , Kotz-Helmer Frederik , Rapp Bastian E.
Published: January 2023

Pneumatic actuators are of great interest for device miniaturization, microactuators, soft robots, biomedical engineering, and complex control systems. Recently, multi-material actuators have become of high interest to researchers due to their comprehensive range of suitable applications. Three-dimensional (3D) printing of multi-material pneumatic actuators would be the ideal way to fabricate customized actuators, but so far, this is mostly limited to deposition-based methodologies, such as fused deposition modeling (FDM) or Polyjetting. Vat-based stereolithography is one of the most relevant high-resolution 3D printing methods but is only rarely utilized in the multi-material 3D printing of materials. This study demonstrated multi-material stereolithography using combinations of materials with different Young’s moduli, i.e., 0.5 MPa and 1.1 GPa, for manufacturing pneumatic actuators and microactuators with a resolution as small as 200 μm. These multi-material actuators have advantages over single-material actuators in terms of their deformation controllability and ease of assembly.
The Design of a Novel 2-42 GHz MEMS True-Time Delay Network for Wideband Phased Array Systems
Authors: Wu Qiannan , Shi Zemin , Gao Xudong , Li Jing , Zhan Yongxin , Zhu Guangzhou , Wang Junqiang , Li Mengwei
Published: January 2023

This article presents the design method of a compact MEMS switched-line true-time delay line (TTDL) network over a wide frequency range extending from 2 to 42 GHz using TTDL units. The TTDL units, namely the cascading radio frequency micro-electromechanical system (RF MEMS) switches and GCPW, were employed in the proposed TTDL network to improve the delay-bandwidth product (DBW) while maintaining its compact size and low delay variation (DV). For comparison, a theoretical analysis of the RF MEMS switch was performed while observing the switch performance with various top electrodes. The MEMS TTDL network has a compact size of 5 mm × 5 mm, with a maximum delay of 200 ps and a minimum of 30 ps. The maximum insertion loss of 9 states is 10 dB, and the in/out return loss is better than 20 dB across 2-42 GHz. The group delay variations are within ±2.5% for all the delay states over the operating frequency range. To the best of our knowledge, the proposed TTDL network obtains the most control bits among the TTDL networks offered to date.
Application Prospects of MXenes Materials Modifications for Sensors
Authors: Tran Vy Anh , Tran Nguyen Tien , Doan Van Dat , Nguyen Thanh-Quang , Pham Thi Hai Ha , Vo Giang N. L.
Published: January 2023

The first two-dimensional (2D) substance sparked a boom in research since this type of material showed potential promise for applications in field sensors. A class of 2D transition metal nitrides, carbides, and carbonitrides are referred to as MXenes. Following the 2011 synthesis of Ti3C2 from Ti3AlC2, much research has been published. Since these materials have several advantages over conventional 2D materials, they have been extensively researched, synthesized, and studied by many research organizations. To give readers a general understanding of these well-liked materials, this review examines the structures of MXenes, discusses various synthesis procedures, and analyzes physicochemistry properties, particularly optical, electronic, structural, and mechanical properties. The focus of this review is the analysis of modern advancements in the development of MXene-based sensors, including electrochemical sensors, gas sensors, biosensors, optical sensors, and wearable sensors. Finally, the opportunities and challenges for further study on the creation of MXenes-based sensors are discussed.
Photoplethysmography-Based Distance Estimation for True Wireless Stereo
Authors: Jeong Youngwoo , Park Joungmin , Kwon Sun Beom , Lee Seung Eun
Published: January 2023

Recently, supplying healthcare services with wearable devices has been investigated. To realize this for true wireless stereo (TWS), which has limited resources (e.g. space, power consumption, and area), implementing multiple functions with one sensor simultaneously is required. The Photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor is a representative healthcare sensor that measures repeated data according to the heart rate. However, since the PPG data are biological, they are influenced by motion artifact and subject characteristics. Hence, noise reduction is needed for PPG data. In this paper, we propose the distance estimation algorithm for PPG signals of TWS. For distance estimation, we designed a waveform adjustment (WA) filter that minimizes noise while maintaining the relationship between before and after data, a lightweight deep learning model called MobileNet, and a PPG monitoring testbed. The number of criteria for distance estimation was set to three. In order to verify the proposed algorithm, we compared several metrics with other filters and AI models. The highest accuracy, precision, recall, and f1 score of the proposed algorithm were 92.5%, 92.6%, 92.8%, and 0.927, respectively, when the signal length was 15. Experimental results of other algorithms showed higher metrics than the proposed algorithm in some cases, but the proposed model showed the fastest inference time.
Synthesis of Er3+:YAG Nanocrystals and Comparative Spectroscopic Analysis with Bulk Counterparts
Authors: Rightsell Chris , Sanchez David , Escudero José , Ortega Eduardo , Ajithkumar Gangadharan , Sardar Dhiraj , Ponce Arturo
Published: January 2023

Single-crystal Er3+:YAG has long been used as a laser material, and recent work has shown polycrystalline ceramic Er3+:YAG to be a suitable laser material, with benefits of lower cost and easier production. However, relatively little work has been done with the synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of Er3+:YAG nanocrystals. In this work, we present the synthesis of nanocrystalline Er3+:YAG and the results of comparative spectroscopic characterization with single-crystal and polycrystalline ceramic counterparts. The results show good agreement between the optical properties of the three hosts, with the nanocrystals demonstrating relatively higher intensity in the 1.53 μm emission. These results demonstrate the viability of Er3+:YAG nanocrystals as a potential laser material.
W-Band Beam-Tilted H-Plane Horn Array Antenna with Wideband Integrated Waveguide Feed Network Based on MMPTE
Authors: Zhao Yun , Ye Fan , Li Sheng , Wang Ai-Zhong , Ding Jiang-Qiao
Published: January 2023

A W-band H-plane horn array antenna with tilted radiation beam based on waveguide structure is proposed in this paper. The designed antenna array consists of four H-plane antenna elements and a broadband feed network. The distribution of excitations is determined by the theory of maximum power transmission efficiency (MMPTE). A multiple branch coupler, two T-junctions and three fixed phase shifters are employed to construct the feed network, which can generate the required amplitude and phase in broadband frequency range from 80 GHz to 100 GHz. The computer numerical control (CNC) milling machines technology is employed to machine the feed network and antenna. All measured and simulated results are in good agreement, which verify the feasibility of the theory of MMPTE to generate a radiation beam directed to any angle from −35° to 35° with suitable excitation provided by the proposed feed network in this paper.
Static and Dynamic Analysis of a Bistable Frequency Up-Converter Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Atmeh Mohammad , Ibrahim Alwathiqbellah , Ramini Abdallah
Published: January 2023

Using energy harvesting to convert ambient vibrations efficiently to electrical energy has become a worthy concept in recent years. Nevertheless, the low frequencies of the ambient vibrations cannot be effectively converted to power using traditional harvesters. Therefore, a frequency up-conversion harvester is presented to convert the low-frequency vibrations to high-frequency vibrations utilizing magnetic coupling. The presented harvester consists of a low-frequency beam (LFB) and a high-frequency beam (HFB) with identical tip magnets facing each other at the same polarity. The HFB, fully covered by a piezoelectric strip, is utilized for voltage generation. The dynamic behavior of the system and the corresponding generated voltage signal has been investigated by modeling the system as a two-degrees-of-freedom (2DOF) lumped-parameter model. A threshold distance of 15 mm that divides the system into a monostable regime with a weak magnetic coupling and a bistable regime with a strong magnetic coupling was revealed in the static analysis of the system. Hardening and softening behaviors were reported at the low frequency range for the mono and bistable regimes, respectively. In addition, a combined nonlinear hardening and softening behavior was captured for low frequencies at the threshold distance. Furthermore, a 100% increment was achieved in the generated voltage at the threshold compared to the monostable regime, and the maximum generated voltage was found to be in the bistable regime. The simulated results were validated experimentally. Moreover, the effect of the external resistance was investigated, and a 2 MΩ resistance was found to be optimal for maximizing the generated power. It was found that frequency up-converting based on magnetic nonlinearity can effectively scavenge energy from low-frequency external vibrations.
A Six Years (2010–2016) Longitudinal Survey of the Four Serotypes of Dengue Viruses in Lao PDR
Authors: Balière Charlotte , Calvez Elodie , Thiberge Jean-Michel , Somlor Somphavanh , Vandenbogaert Mathias , Grandadam Marc , Caro Valérie
Published: January 2023

Dengue fever is the most prevalent arthropod-borne viral infection of humans in tropical and subtropical countries. Since 1979, dengue has been reported to be endemic in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR), as in many countries in Southeast Asia, with a complex circulation of the four dengue viruses’ serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4). By sequencing the complete envelope protein, we explored a panel of samples from five Lao Provinces (Vientiane capital, Luangprabang, Bolikhamxay, Saravane, Attapeu) to enrich knowledge about the co-circulation of DENVs in Lao PDR between 2010 and 2016. Phylogenetic analyses highlighted the specific circulation of DENV-1 genotype I, DENV-2 genotype Asian I, DENV-4 genotype I and the co-circulation of DENV-3 genotype II and III. The continuous co-circulation of the four serotypes was underlined, with genotype or cluster shifts among DENV-3 and DENV-1. These data suggested the emergence or re-emergence of DENV strains associated with epidemic events, potentially linked to the exchanges within the territory and with neighboring countries. Indeed, the increasing local or regional connections favored the dissemination of new isolates or new clusters around the country. Since 2012, the surveillance and alert system created in Vientiane capital by the Institut Pasteur du Laos appears to be a strategic tool for monitoring the circulation of the four serotypes, especially in this endemic country, and allows for improving dengue epidemiological knowledge to anticipate epidemic events better.
The Use of Probiotics during Rearing of Hermetia illucens: Potential, Caveats, and Knowledge Gaps
Authors: Gorrens Ellen , Lecocq Antoine , De Smet Jeroen
Published: January 2023

Given the novelty of the industrial production of the edible insects sector, research has primarily focused on the zootechnical performances of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) in response to different substrates and rearing conditions as a basis to optimize yield and quality. However recently, research has started to focus more on the associated microbes in the larval digestive system and their substrates and the effect of manipulating the composition of these communities on insect performance as a form of microbiome engineering. Here we present an overview of the existing literature on the use of microorganisms during rearing of the BSFL to optimize the productivity of this insect. These studies have had variable outcomes and potential explanations for this variation are offered to inspire future research that might lead to a better success rate for microbiome engineering in BSFL.
The Use of Mycelial Fungi to Test the Fungal Resistance of Polymeric Materials
Authors: Ivanushkina Natalya , Aleksanyan Kristine , Rogovina Svetlana , Kochkina Galina
Published: January 2023

There are two main themes in the research on the biodegradation of industrial materials by mycelial fungi. The challenge of reducing environmental pollution necessitates the creation of biodegradable polymers that allow microorganisms, including mycelial fungi, to degrade them to low-molecule soluble substances. Additionally, to minimize the biodegradation of industrial materials while they are operating in the environment, there is a need to produce fungi-resistant polymer compositions. The fungal resistance of industrial materials and products can be assessed using a specific set of mycelial fungi cultures. Test cultures selected for this purpose are supported in the All-Russian Collection of Microorganisms (VKM). This review addresses the principle of culture selection to assess the fungal resistance of industrial materials and evaluates the results of the tests using these cultures.
Genetic Diversity and Primary Drug Resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Beijing Genotype Strains in Northwestern Russia
Authors: Vyazovaya Anna , Gerasimova Alena , Mudarisova Regina , Terentieva Daria , Solovieva Natalia , Zhuravlev Viacheslav , Mokrousov Igor
Published: January 2023

The Beijing genotype is the main family of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Russia. We analyzed its diversity and drug resistance in provinces across Northwestern Russia to identify the epidemiologically relevant Beijing strains. The study collection included 497 isolates from newly-diagnosed tuberculosis (TB) patients. Bacterial isolates were subjected to drug-susceptibility testing and genotyping. The Beijing genotype was detected in 57.5% (286/497); 50% of the Beijing strains were multidrug-resistant (MDR). Central Asian/Russian and B0/W148 groups included 176 and 77 isolates, respectively. MDR was more frequent among B0/W148 strains compared to Central Asian/Russian strains (85.7% vs. 40.3%, p < 0.0001). Typing of 24 minisatellite loci of Beijing strains revealed 82 profiles; 230 isolates were in 23 clusters. The largest Central Asian/Russian types were 94-32 (n = 75), 1065-32 (n = 17), and 95-32 (n = 12). B0/W148 types were 100-32 (n = 59) and 4737-32 (n = 5). MDR was more frequent in types 1065-32 (88.2%), 100-32 (83.1%), and 4737-32 (100%). In contrast, type 9391-32 (n = 9) included only drug-susceptible strains. To conclude, M. tuberculosis Beijing genotype is dominant in Northwestern Russia, and an active transmission of overwhelmingly MDR B0/W148 types explains the reported increase of MDR-TB. The presence of MDR-associated minor variants (type 1071-32/ancient Beijing and Central Asia Outbreak strain) in some of the studied provinces also requires attention.
Effects of Lactobacillus fermentum Administration on Intestinal Morphometry and Antibody Serum Levels in Salmonella-Infantis-Challenged Chickens
Authors: Šefcová Miroslava Anna , Ortega-Paredes David , Larrea-Álvarez César Marcelo , Mina Iván , Guapás Victoria , Ayala-Velasteguí David , Leoro-Garzón Paula , Molina-Cuasapaz Gabriel , Vinueza-Burgos Christian , Revajová Viera , Larrea-Álvarez Marco
Published: January 2023

There are no studies reporting the effects of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Infantis (S. Infantis) on intestinal architecture and immunoglobulin serum levels in chickens. Here, we measured these parameters and hypothesized whether probiotic administration could modulate the observed outcomes. Two-hundred 1-day-old COBB 500 male chicks were allocated into four groups: (I) the control, (II) the group treated with L. fermentum, (III) the group exposed to S. Infantis, and (IV) the group inoculated with both bacteria. At 11 days post infection, blood was gathered from animals which were then euthanized, and samples from the small intestine were collected. Intestinal conditions, as well as IgA and IgM serum levels, were assessed. S. Infantis reduced villus-height-to-crypt-depth (VH:CD) ratios in duodenal, jejunal, and ileal sections compared to control conditions, although no differences were found regarding the number of goblet cells, muc-2 expression, and immunoglobulin concentration. L. fermentum improved intestinal measurements compared to the control; this effect was also evidenced in birds infected with S. Infantis. IgM serum levels augmented in response to the probiotic in infected animals. Certainly, the application of L. fermentum elicited positive outcomes in S. Infantis-challenged chickens and thus must be considered for developing novel treatments designed to reduce unwanted infections.