bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ribosome engineering reveals the importance of 5S rRNA autonomy for ribosome assembly
Authors: Huang Shijie , Aleksashin Nikolay A. , Loveland Anna B. , Klepacki Dorota , Reier Kaspar , Kefi Amira , Szal Teresa , Remme Jaanus , Jaeger Luc , Vázquez-Laslop Nora , Korostelev Andrei A. , Mankin Alexander S.
Published: June 2020

5S rRNA is an indispensable component of cytoplasmic ribosomes in all species. The functions of 5S rRNA and the reasons for its evolutionary preservation as an independent molecule remain unclear. Here we used ribosome engineering to investigate whether 5S rRNA autonomy is critical for ribosome function and cell survival. By linking circularly permutated 5S rRNA with 23S rRNA we generated a bacterial strain devoid of free 5S rRNA. Viability of the engineered cells demonstrates that autonomous 5S rRNA is dispensable for cell growth under standard conditions and is unlikely to have essential functions outside the ribosome. The fully assembled ribosomes carrying 23S-5S rRNA are highly active in translation. However, the engineered cells accumulate aberrant 50S subunits unable to form stable 70S ribosomes. Cryo-EM analysis revealed a malformed peptidyl transferase center in the misassembled 50S subunits. Our results argue that the autonomy of 5S rRNA is preserved due to its role in ribosome biogenesis.
Nucleoid remodeling during environmental adaptation is regulated by HU-dependent DNA bundling
Authors: Remesh Soumya G. , Verma Subhash C. , Chen Jian-Hua , Ekman Axel A. , Larabell Carolyn A. , Adhya Sankar , Hammel Michal
Published: June 2020

Bacterial nucleoid remodeling dependent on conserved histone-like protein, HU is one of the determining factors in global gene regulation. By imaging of near-native, unlabeled E. coli cells by soft X-ray tomography, we show that HU remodels nucleoids by promoting the formation of a dense condensed core surrounded by less condensed isolated domains. Nucleoid remodeling during cell growth and environmental adaptation correlate with pH and ionic strength controlled molecular switch that regulated HUαα dependent intermolecular DNA bundling. Through crystallographic and solution-based studies we show that these effects mechanistically rely on HUαα promiscuity in forming multiple electrostatically driven multimerization interfaces. Changes in DNA bundling consequently affects gene expression globally, likely by constrained DNA supercoiling. Taken together our findings unveil a critical function of HU–DNA interaction in nucleoid remodeling that may serve as a general microbial mechanism for transcriptional regulation to synchronize genetic responses during the cell cycle and adapt to changing environments.
Towards fully integrated photonic displacement sensors
Authors: Bag Ankan , Neugebauer Martin , Mick Uwe , Christiansen Silke , Schulz Sebastian A. , Banzer Peter
Published: June 2020

The field of optical metrology with its high precision position, rotation and wavefront sensors represents the basis for lithography and high resolution microscopy. However, the on-chip integration—a task highly relevant for future nanotechnological devices—necessitates the reduction of the spatial footprint of sensing schemes by the deployment of novel concepts. A promising route towards this goal is predicated on the controllable directional emission of the fundamentally smallest emitters of light, i.e., dipoles, as an indicator. Here we realize an integrated displacement sensor based on the directional emission of Huygens dipoles excited in an individual dipolar antenna. The position of the antenna relative to the excitation field determines its directional coupling into a six-way crossing of photonic crystal waveguides. In our experimental study supported by theoretical calculations, we demonstrate the first prototype of an integrated displacement sensor with a standard deviation of the position accuracy below λ/300 at room temperature and ambient conditions.
Multipartite entanglement analysis from random correlations
Authors: Knips Lukas , Dziewior Jan , Kłobus Waldemar , Laskowski Wiesław , Paterek Tomasz , Shadbolt Peter J. , Weinfurter Harald , Meinecke Jasmin D. A.
Published: June 2020

Quantum entanglement is usually revealed via a well aligned, carefully chosen set of measurements. Yet, under a number of experimental conditions, for example in communication within multiparty quantum networks, noise along the channels or fluctuating orientations of reference frames may ruin the quality of the distributed states. Here, we show that even for strong fluctuations one can still gain detailed information about the state and its entanglement using random measurements. Correlations between all or subsets of the measurement outcomes and especially their distributions provide information about the entanglement structure of a state. We analytically derive an entanglement criterion for two-qubit states and provide strong numerical evidence for witnessing genuine multipartite entanglement of three and four qubits. Our methods take the purity of the states into account and are based on only the second moments of measured correlations. Extended features of this theory are demonstrated experimentally with four photonic qubits. As long as the rate of entanglement generation is sufficiently high compared to the speed of the fluctuations, this method overcomes any type and strength of localized unitary noise.
Vis/NIR hyperspectral imaging distinguishes sub-population, production environment, and physicochemical grain properties in rice
Authors: Barnaby Jinyoung Y. , Huggins Trevis D. , Lee Hoonsoo , McClung Anna M. , Pinson Shannon R. M. , Oh Mirae , Bauchan Gary R. , Tarpley Lee , Lee Kangjin , Kim Moon S. , Edwards Jeremy D.
Published: June 2020

Rice grain quality is a multifaceted quantitative trait that impacts crop value and is influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Chemical, physical, and visual analyses are the standard methods for measuring grain quality. In this study, we evaluated high-throughput hyperspectral imaging for quantification of rice grain quality and classification of grain samples by genetic sub-population and production environment. Whole grain rice samples from the USDA mini-core collection grown in multiple locations were evaluated using hyperspectral imaging and compared with results from standard phenotyping. Loci associated with hyperspectral values were mapped in the mini-core with 3.2 million SNPs in a genome-wide association study (GWAS). Our results show that visible and near infra-red (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy can classify rice according to sub-population and production environment based on differences in physicochemical grain properties. The 702–900 nm range of the NIR spectrum was associated with the chalky grain trait. GWAS revealed that grain chalk and hyperspectral variation share genomic regions containing several plausible candidate genes for grain chalkiness. Hyperspectral quantification of grain chalk was validated using a segregating bi-parental mapping population. These results indicate that Vis/NIR can be used for non-destructive high throughput phenotyping of grain chalk and potentially other grain quality properties.
Metabolic Profiling of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Emitted by the Pathogens Francisella tularensis and Bacillus anthracis in Liquid Culture
Authors: Reese Kristen L. , Rasley Amy , Avila Julie R. , Jones A. Daniel , Frank Matthias
Published: June 2020

We conducted comprehensive (untargeted) metabolic profiling of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted in culture by bacterial taxa Francisella tularensis (F. tularensis) subspecies novicida and Bacillus anthracis (B. anthracis) Sterne, surrogates for potential bacterial bioterrorism agents, as well as selective measurements of VOCs from their fully virulent counterparts, F. tularensis subspecies tularensis strain SCHU S4 and B. anthracis Ames. F. tularensis and B. anthracis were grown in liquid broth for time periods that covered logarithmic growth, stationary, and decline phases. VOCs emitted over the course of the growth phases were collected from the headspace above the cultures using solid phase microextraction (SPME) and were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We developed criteria for distinguishing VOCs originating from bacteria versus background VOCs (originating from growth media only controls or sampling devices). Analyses of collected VOCs revealed methyl ketones, alcohols, esters, carboxylic acids, and nitrogen- and sulfur-containing compounds that were present in the bacterial cultures and absent (or present at only low abundance) in control samples indicating that these compounds originated from the bacteria. Distinct VOC profiles where observed for F. tularensis when compared with B. anthracis while the observed profiles of each of the two F. tularensis and B. anthracis strains exhibited some similarities. Furthermore, the relative abundance of VOCs was influenced by bacterial growth phase. These data illustrate the potential for VOC profiles to distinguish pathogens at the genus and species-level and to discriminate bacterial growth phases. The determination of VOC profiles lays the groundwork for non-invasive probes of bacterial metabolism and offers prospects for detection of microbe-specific VOC biomarkers from two potential biowarfare agents.
Conditioned medium produced by fibroblasts cultured in low oxygen pressure allows the formation of highly structured capillary-like networks in fibrin gels
Authors: Caneparo Christophe , Baratange Clément , Chabaud Stéphane , Bolduc Stéphane
Published: June 2020

Tissue engineering is an emerging and promising concept to replace or cure failing organs, but its clinical translation currently encounters issues due to the inability to quickly produce inexpensive thick tissues, which are necessary for many applications. To circumvent this problem, we postulate that cells secrete the optimal cocktail required to promote angiogenesis when they are placed in physiological conditions where their oxygen supply is reduced. Thus, dermal fibroblasts were cultivated under hypoxia (2% O2) to condition their cell culture medium. The potential of this conditioned medium was tested for human umbilical vein endothelial cell proliferation and for their ability to form capillary-like networks into fibrin gels. The medium conditioned by dermal fibroblasts under hypoxic conditions (DF-Hx) induced a more significant proliferation of endothelial cells compared to medium conditioned by dermal fibroblasts under normoxic conditions (DF-Nx). In essence, doubling time for endothelial cells in DF-Hx was reduced by 10.4% compared to DF-Nx after 1 week of conditioning, and by 20.3% after 2 weeks. The DF-Hx allowed the formation of more extended and more structured capillary-like networks than DF-Nx or commercially available medium, paving the way to further refinements.
Weakly-supervised learning for lung carcinoma classification using deep learning
Authors: Kanavati Fahdi , Toyokawa Gouji , Momosaki Seiya , Rambeau Michael , Kozuma Yuka , Shoji Fumihiro , Yamazaki Koji , Takeo Sadanori , Iizuka Osamu , Tsuneki Masayuki
Published: June 2020

Lung cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths in many countries around the world, and its histopathological diagnosis is crucial for deciding on optimum treatment strategies. Recently, Artificial Intelligence (AI) deep learning models have been widely shown to be useful in various medical fields, particularly image and pathological diagnoses; however, AI models for the pathological diagnosis of pulmonary lesions that have been validated on large-scale test sets are yet to be seen. We trained a Convolution Neural Network (CNN) based on the EfficientNet-B3 architecture, using transfer learning and weakly-supervised learning, to predict carcinoma in Whole Slide Images (WSIs) using a training dataset of 3,554 WSIs. We obtained highly promising results for differentiating between lung carcinoma and non-neoplastic with high Receiver Operator Curve (ROC) area under the curves (AUCs) on four independent test sets (ROC AUCs of 0.975, 0.974, 0.988, and 0.981, respectively). Development and validation of algorithms such as ours are important initial steps in the development of software suites that could be adopted in routine pathological practices and potentially help reduce the burden on pathologists.
A Nature-Inspired Search Space Reduction Technique for Spine Identification on Ultrasound Samples of Spina Bifida Cases
Authors: Cengizler Çağlar , Ün M. Kerem , Büyükkurt Selim
Published: June 2020

Spina bifida is a birth defect caused by incomplete closing around the spinal cord. Spina bifida is diagnosed in a number of different ways. One approach involves searching for a deformity in the spinal axis via ultrasound. Although easy to apply, this approach requires a highly trained clinician to locate the abnormality due to the noise and distortion present in prenatal ultrasound images. Accordingly, visual examination of ultrasound images may be error prone and subjective. A computerized support system that would automatically detect the location of the spinal deformity may be helpful to the clinician in the diagnostic process. Such a software system first and foremost would require an algorithm for the identification of the entire (healthy or unhealthy) spine in the ultrasound image. This paper introduces a novel flocking dynamics based approach for reducing the size of the search space in the spine identification problem. Proposed approach accepts bone-like blobs on the ultrasound images as bird flocks and combine them into bone groups by calculating the migration path of each flock. Presented results reveal that the method is able to locate correct bones to be grouped together and reduce search space (i.e. number of bones) up to 68%.
Extended experimental inferential structure determination method in determining the structural ensembles of disordered protein states
Authors: Lincoff James , Haghighatlari Mojtaba , Krzeminski Mickael , Teixeira João M. C. , Gomes Gregory-Neal W. , Gradinaru Claudiu C. , Forman-Kay Julie D. , Head-Gordon Teresa
Published: June 2020

Proteins with intrinsic or unfolded state disorder comprise a new frontier in structural biology, requiring the characterization of diverse and dynamic structural ensembles. Here we introduce a comprehensive Bayesian framework, the Extended Experimental Inferential Structure Determination (X-EISD) method, which calculates the maximum log-likelihood of a disordered protein ensemble. X-EISD accounts for the uncertainties of a range of experimental data and back-calculation models from structures, including NMR chemical shifts, J-couplings, Nuclear Overhauser Effects (NOEs), paramagnetic relaxation enhancements (PREs), residual dipolar couplings (RDCs), hydrodynamic radii (Rh), single molecule fluorescence Förster resonance energy transfer (smFRET) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS). We apply X-EISD to the joint optimization against experimental data for the unfolded drkN SH3 domain and find that combining a local data type, such as chemical shifts or J-couplings, paired with long-ranged restraints such as NOEs, PREs or smFRET, yields structural ensembles in good agreement with all other data types if combined with representative IDP conformers.
Employing photoluminescence to rapidly follow aggregation and dispersion of cellulose nanofibrils
Authors: Johns Marcus A. , Lewandowska Anna E. , Green Ellen , Eichhorn Stephen J.
Published: June 2020

Multichannel confocal spectroscopy enables tracking of time dependent, spatially resolved changes in the physicochemical environment of cellulose nanofibrils due to variation in emission intensity ratios.
Purification of graphene oxide dispersions by using a fluidic cell
Authors: Santos Marcos Alves , Marques Lucas , Silva Cecilia de Carvalho Castro
Published: June 2020

It is presented a simple, fast and efficient method for the purification of aqueous dispersion of graphene oxide (GO), based on a fluidic diffusion cell.
Modification of polyacrylate sorbent coatings with carbodiimide crosslinker chemistry for sequence-selective DNA extraction using solid-phase microextraction
Authors: Varona Marcelino , Shimelis Olga I. , Anderson Jared L.
Published: June 2020

Selective DNA extraction is useful for the isolation and detection of low-abundance sequences. This study examines the modification of polyacrylate solid-phase microextraction fibers for DNA analysis using carbodiimide crosslinker chemistry.
An experimental and first-principle investigation of the Ca-substitution effect on P3-type layered NaxCoO2
Authors: Ishado Yuji , Hasegawa Hirona , Okada Shigeto , Mizuhata Minoru , Maki Hideshi , Matsui Masaki
Published: June 2020

We synthesize Ca-substituted P3-type layered NaxCoO2. Our experimental and computational studies prove that the Ca-substitution suppresses irreversible phase transition and shows significant improvement in cycling performance.
Efficient formation of [3]pseudorotaxane based on cooperative complexation of dibenzo-24-crown-8 with diphenylviologen axle
Authors: Sakata Yoko , Ogura Takaya , Akine Shigehisa
Published: June 2020

A novel cooperative [3]pseudorotaxane system consisting of dibenzo-24-crown-8 (DB24C8) and diphenylviologen axle has been developed.
Anodic electrochemiluminescence from CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots for an alkaline phosphatase assay
Authors: Wang Xiao-Yan , Wu Mei-Xia , Ding Shou-Nian
Published: June 2020

Fundamental mechanisms of ECL generation in a CsPbBr3 QDs/H2A system.
Understanding the electronic properties of BaTiO3and Er3+doped BaTiO3films through confocal scanning microscopy and XPS: the role of oxygen vacancies
Authors: Clabel H. J. L. , Awan Iram T. , Lozano G. , Pereira-da-Silva M. A. , Romano R. A. , Rivera V. A. G. , Ferreira S. O. , Marega E.
Published: June 2020

Optical activation and chemical defects were identified with the help of confocal scanning microscopy on films with nano-scale thickness, which was in agreement with SEM measurements, and supported by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
Prediction of optoelectronic properties of Cu2O using neural network potential
Authors: Selvaratnam Balaranjan , Koodali Ranjit T. , Miró Pere
Published: June 2020

Neural network potentials (NNPs) can be used to predict energy and forces at a fraction of the computational cost compared to  density functional theory (DFT). In this work, we extend this approach to predict optoelectronic properties.
Selective bond-breaking in formic acid by dissociative electron attachment
Authors: Slaughter D. S. , Weber Th. , Belkacem A. , Trevisan C. S. , Lucchese R. R. , McCurdy C. W. , Rescigno T. N.
Published: June 2020

3D momentum imaging investigation of the dynamics of dissociative electron attachment to formic acid, producing a hydride anion and either formyloxyl or hydrocarboxyl radicals.
Catalysis effect on CO2 methanation using MgH2 as a portable hydrogen medium
Authors: Amica Guillermina , Azcona Sara Rozas , Aparicio Santiago , Gennari Fabiana C.
Published: June 2020

Reduction of CO2 to CH4 employing MgH2 in the presence and absence of cobalt as a catalyst.
Optimized electronic structure and p-band centre control engineering to enhance surface absorption and inherent conductivity for accelerated hydrogen evolution over a wide pH range
Authors: Wang Yuanzhe , Wang Dong , Gao Jiajia , Hao Xianfeng , Li Zhiping , Zhou Junshuang , Gao Faming
Published: June 2020

Numerous experiments have demonstrated that an appropriate electronic configuration can effectively activate the electrocatalytic activity.
One-pot synthesis of bio-based polycarbonates from dimethyl carbonate and isosorbide under metal-free condition
Authors: Fang Wenjuan , Zhang Zhencai , Yang Zifeng , Zhang Yaqin , Xu Fei , Li Chenhao , An Hongzhe , Song Ting , Luo Yunjun , Zhang Suojiang
Published: June 2020

A synthetic strategy for bio-based polycarbonate was developed via one-pot polymerization of renewable monomer isosorbide and dimethyl carbonate using eco-friendly organo-catalysts.
An enhanced centrifugation-assisted lateral flow immunoassay for the point-of-care detection of protein biomarkers
Authors: Shen Minjie , Li Nan , Lu Ying , Cheng Jing , Xu Youchun
Published: June 2020

An enhanced centrifugation-assisted lateral flow immunoassay was proposed for automated protein biomarker detections using blood samples within 15 minutes.
Spontaneous formation of wrinkle-driven tubular structure as a versatile platform for adaptive 3D stretchable electronics
Authors: Zeng Songshan , Li Rui , Tait William R. T. , Smith Andrew T. , Zhang Monica , Zhu Mengting , Chov Nora , Xu Gefan , Zhang Dianyun , Sun Luyi
Published: June 2020

A 3D tubular structure fabricated from the relaxation of pre-stretched 2D precursor is used to develop various 3D stretchable electronics.
A piezoelectric nanogenerator promotes highly stretchable and self-chargeable supercapacitors
Authors: Zhou Dan , Wang Ning , Yang Taotao , Wang Long , Cao Xia , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: June 2020

Stretchable and piezoelectrically self-chargeable supercapacitor designed by sandwiching piezo-electrolyte shows high efficiency of energy collection, conversion, and self-charging, either under continuous slight palm patting or repeated stretching.
Influence of a bifunctional linker on the loading of Cu2AgInS4 QDs onto porous TiO2 NFs to use as an efficient photoanode to boost the photoconversion efficiency of QDSCs
Authors: Kottayi Roopakala , Panneerselvam Pratheep , Singh Nisha , Murugadoss Vignesh , Sittaramane Ramdasse , Angaiah Subramania
Published: June 2020

Quaternary Cu2AgInS4 quantum dots anchored more onto porous TiO2 NFs through a linker, 3-mercaptopropionic acid exhibits higher photoconversion efficiency of QDSC than that of the same anchored without a linker.
Oxygen-defective ZnO porous nanosheets modified by carbon dots to improve their visible-light photocatalytic activity and gain mechanistic insight
Authors: Guo Feng , Sun Haoran , Cheng Lei , Shi Weilong
Published: June 2020

A carbon dots/oxygen-defective ZnO (COZ) porous nanosheet composite photocatalyst was prepared via a one-step liquid-phase wet chemistry method for the highly efficient visible-light photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC).
Tunable nanogels by host–guest interaction with carboxylate pillar[5]arene for controlled encapsulation and release of doxorubicin
Authors: Wei Peng , Gangapurwala Gauri , Pretzel David , Wang Limin , Schubert Stephanie , Brendel Johannes C. , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: June 2020

Carboxylate-pillar[5]arene can be used to change the charge property and content of carboxylate group in nanogels by supramolecular host–guest interaction, which can tune the hydrolysis of the nanogels and encapsulation and release of doxorubicin.
Homoleptic alkynyl-protected gold nanoclusters with unusual compositions and structures
Authors: Guan Zong-Jie , Hu Feng , Li Jiao-Jiao , Liu Zi-Rui , Wang Quan-Ming
Published: June 2020

Two homoleptic alkynyl-protected gold nanoclusters with a metal-to-ligand ratio different from known Aun(SR)m or Aux(CCR)y clusters are reported.
Cross-linking approaches for block copolymer nano-assemblies via RAFT-mediated polymerization-induced self-assembly
Authors: Li Shenzhen , Han Guang , Zhang Wangqing
Published: June 2020

This minireview summarizes the current cross-linking approaches to stabilize block copolymer nano-assemblies obtained via RAFT-mediated PISA process.
Mechanism of tetralin conversion on zeolites for the production of benzene derivatives
Authors: Nakajima Kazuki , Suganuma Satoshi , Tsuji Etsushi , Katada Naonobu
Published: June 2020

The influences of acidity and textural properties of the zeolites on the activity and selectivity were revealed in tetralin conversion.
Hadoop framework for efficient sentiment classification using trees
Authors: Sridharan K. , Komarasamy G. , Daniel Madan Raja S.
Published: June 2020

Due to the increase in the speed of generation of data, the authors are forced to handle a massive volume of data with the help of conventional machine learning algorithms. Big data is an enormous volume of data which is beyond the capacity of the traditional database software tool to collect, store, manage, and process within a stipulated time limit. Sentiment analysis is analysing the data by classifying the text on the basis of strength and polarity of opinion (positive/negative) words that define the text. While handling big data, Hadoop provides a platform for users to develop their own sentiment analysis with the help of a lexicon dictionary or available application programming interface (API) or external programs. The aim of classifying data is to analyse extensive data and develop an appropriate description or model for every organised class with the feature present in the data. In this work, the feature extraction based on term frequency‐inverse document frequency is utilised and the Hadoop framework in attaining a useful classification with the help of random forest techniques.
The Minimum Required Landscape Discharge
Authors: Klich Magdalena , Thürmer Konrad
Published: June 2020

Due to challenges of ecological restoration of post-mining areas to pre-operational conditions in aspect of water quality and quantity, development and assessment of ecological based minimal landscape discharge is necessary. In order to determine it, the basic nature and human factors and their relations within a catchment area had to be described and the essential parameters defined. The hydro ecological relations in the landscape are described by means of the numerous measurement methods and interpretation algorithms. The further aim was these procedures and the interpretation thresholds concerning the Minimum Required Landscape Discharge to recognize and optimally adapt for application.
Some problems of the management of state and public sector land
Authors: Gross Marta , Źróbek Ryszard
Published: June 2020

The paper contains chosen problems of the management of state and public sector. The authors described the relationship between public and private sector in real estate management. There is an assumption that public lands are often badly managed. The authors tried to answer why it happens and what are the reasons of that. In the end of the paper some activities to improve public land management were indicated.
Topographic mapping in the National Spatial Data Infrastructure in Ukraine
Authors: Karpinskyi Yurii , Lazorenko-Hevel Nadiia
Published: June 2020

The article proposes a new development concept of topographic mapping in Ukraine. It is based on the implementation of a new system model that responds to the geoinformation approach to topographic mapping in the development of national geospatial data infrastructure (NSDI) and provides the creation of geospatial data sets in the form of databases and knowledge bases based on existing standards and specifications: series of international standards ISO 19100 “Geographic information/Geomatics”, Open Geospatial Consortium (OGS), INSPIRE, State Standards of Ukraine (DSTU), Complex of Standards Organization of Ukraine (SOU) “Topographic database”. It provides a high intellectual level of core reference and profile geospatial data, which is capable to provide geoinformation analysis and modeling in modern GIS. In addition, the implementation the infrastructure approach to topographic production and the creation and development of a permanent topographic monitoring system will ensure the publication of geospatial data in real time, almost simultaneously with changes in the terrain, which guarantees the maintenance of a single topographic basis and, accordingly, core reference datasets for NSDI. Publication is funded by the Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange under the International Academic Partnerships Programme from the project „Organization of the 9th International Scientific and Technical Conference entitled Environmental Engineering, Photogrammetry, Geoinformatics – Modern Technologies and Development Perspectives”.
ENSURING THE MAINTENANCE OF THE AUTOMATED INFORMATIONAL SYSTEM “STATE ANIMAL REGISTER” IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA
Authors: Nistor-Lopatenco Livia , Mnogodetnâi Angela , Pantaz Alexandru
Published: June 2020

The goal of this work is to analyze and reflect the importance of developing the Integrated Agricultural Register for the Republic (IAR) of Moldova, which is based on the implementation of the process of Electronic Transformation of Government through the e-Agriculture principle, storage and maintenance of information systems in the agro-industrial sector, management and processing of required data from existing electronic registers in order to streamline the development and implementation of development policies in agriculture. The Animal Identification and Traceability System (AITS), later referred to as the State Animal Register (SAR), is only a component part of the IAR and has as its primary objective the food security and consumer assurance with products of animal origin. AITS is one of the basic subsystems as an integral part of the traceability process of animal products. The SAR Automated Informational System is a set of elements and procedures that allow the identification and registration of animals and holdings, ensuring compliance of the traceability principle. All animals belonging to the bovines, sheep, goats, swine, horses, donkeys and descendant species obtained by crossing them, all holdings in which these animals are kept or handled, either farm, sheepfold, fair, slaughterhouse, will be identified. [1]
Production value of agricultural land – a factor determining the consolidation of land – case study
Authors: Stręk Żanna , Noga Karol
Published: June 2020

Land as a means of labour and agricultural production is a very important or even the most important good of a farmer. For centuries spatial structure of Polish rural areas was determined by historical and legal, social and economic, political, economic, technical and demographic conditions. A characteristic feature of land is the fact that it is a part of nature used for plant production but at the same time it is not a product of human labour so it cannot be replaced by a different means of production or its area cannot be increased. Soil quality is one of the most important factors determining potential high income from agricultural activity. Agricultural land quality is expressed as soil class and its suitability for cultivating specific plants or groups of plants – as soil and agricultural complexes. Throughout Poland uniform classification of soil was applied taking into account soil morphology and its physical properties. The study contains elaborate descriptive and cartographic material such as classification maps in the scale equivalent to cadastral maps. In studies concerning spatial and economic phenomena occurring in rural land, respective villages are grouped into larger typological units with respect to similarity of their features. The classification was used in developing a method for the appraisal of land for land consolidation and exchange works. The classification according to land uses can be applied in economic practice better by being expressed as a single number in the form of a productivity ratio rather than a soil quality index. This is the premise underlying the purpose of this paper – calculating the ratio of productivity for cropland and grassland for the needs of identifying villages similar in that respect.

The studies were carried out in 116 villages in the county of Łęczna in Lublin voivodeship. Data relating to surface of respective classes of soil was retrieved from the land and buildings register and the calculation of the ratio was based on scores assigned on a 100-point scale.
Dimensionless Normalized Wave Power in the Hot-spot Areas of the Black Sea
Authors: Gul Majidi Ajab , Bingölbali Bilal , Akpınar Adem , Rusu Eugen
Published: June 2020

The main objective of this study is to identify and compare wave power sources in the high potential areas in nearshore and shallow water regions of the Black Sea. To achieve the goal, 23 locations were selected on two parallel lines around 5 m (10 sites) and around 25 m (13 sites) depth along the shoreline. The data needed to do the required analyzes at these locations were produced by using the calibrated nested layered 31-year wave hindcast SWAN model, which is operated between 1979-2009 with CFSR winds. The wave data were collected at a 2-hour time resolution for the sub-grid domains (SD3, SD2, and SD1) developed for the vicinity of Karaburun, Filyos, and Sinop coasts. HeaveBuoy, Oyster, Seabased AB, WaveDragon, WaveStar, Oyster2, and SSG, the most common known wave energy converters, were evaluated in the analysis. To ensure a more comprehensive analysis of the geographic variation of the predicted electrical power for each considered wave energy converter system, dimensionless normalized wave power and efficiency index were calculated separately for each wave energy converter devices at each location. From the results, it is recognized that generally, all the WEC systems performances are decreasing from Karaburun to Sinop while FB1 (13 m depth) the lowest, and KA2 (25 m depth) has the highest wave power capability. The most and the least energetic years were 1998 and 1989, repectively.
Optimal Design and Energy Management for a Grid Connected Renewable Hybrid System (PV-HKT-GRID)
Authors: Arévalo Paul , Benavides Darío , Espinoza Juan L. , Jurado Francisco
Published: June 2020

The integration of renewable energy is transcendental for sustainable development. This article analyses a hybrid grid-connected system composed of renewable energy technologies (photovoltaichydrokinetic), where several scenarios for energy management are proposed. They include a battery system as energy storage and a system without storage but with resale fee to grid, with the aim of determining the best economic and environmental balance. The results show that, by having a (PV-HKT-GRID) system with energy storage and no resale fee to the grid, the Net Present Cost (NPC) is increased by USD $ 132, 760 and the Cost of Energy (COE) decreases $ 0.013/kWh when compared to the grid. In addition, the same hybrid system without energy storage and no resale fee to grid, presents an energy cost savings of $ 0.043/kWh, and an additional cost of USD $ 43, 630. Finally, if a grid resale rate is included in the renewable hybrid system, then the difference is noticeable, the savings in the Cost of Energy is $ 0.073/kWh and presents a saving in the NPC of USD $ 39, 930. In all cases, CO2 emissions have been avoided.
Cost of dispatchable electricity from concentrated solar power, solar tower plants, with 10 hours’ molten salt thermal energy storage
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: June 2020

While there is a consensus that concentrated solar power solar tower plants with thermal energy storage 10 hours may permit the production of dispatchable electricity at 6 c/kWh, without a single plant utility size produced and operated featuring this technology at this cost, the recent experience of Crescent Dunes has clearly shown that this is not the case. Crescent Dunes started operation in October 2015 demonstrating since the very beginning the lack of maturity of this specific technology, with lack of production or no production at all, every single month since then. As the 110 MW plant of cost about 1 billion $ US has been shut down after less than 4 years of operation, and a total production of only 418, 849 MWh, that is less than the 500, 000 MWh expected every year for 25 years, this translate in a total cost, excluding repairs and maintenance costs incurred in the 4 years, of 2.38 $ per kWh of unpredictable electricity. This experience suggests that every estimation of costs and performances should be based on data of plants built and operated, and to avoid the use of models not yet validated to predict performances of novel plants. There is a mature solar thermal technology, and this is the parabolic trough.
Deep Electrification of Residential Heating and Possible Implications: An Irish Perspective
Authors: Gaur Ankita , Fitiwi Desta , Curtis John
Published: June 2020

Electrifying energy sectors using renewable rich electricity is one of the many decarbonization pathways being adopted to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Among these, the heating and cooling sector, both energy and carbon intensive, is attracting a lot of attention. Power-to-heat technology (PtH) along with thermal energy storage systems is widely adopted to decarbonise this sector. However, increased penetration of PtH may cause congestion in existing electrical grid infrastructures, and hence needs for network upgrades. In this context, our paper presents a quantitative analysis on the impact of electrifying domestic dwellings (existing and new) in Ireland. The analysis encompasses costs, benefits, renewable power curtailment and regional distribution of optimal electrification of the housing stock. Analysis reveal significant grid expansion needs with increasing levels of PtH. This impact is pronounced without appropriate thermal storage. On the flip side, it leads to a more efficient utilisation of renewable energy by reducing curtailment.
Study on Flood Control Planning Scheme of Main Urban Area of Qijiang District in Chongqing City
Authors: Li Changwen , Li Anqiang , Yuan Di , Yao Wei , Li Qi
Published: June 2020

In order to solve the flood control problems faced by the main urban area of Qijiang District in hilly areas and ensure the safety of urban flood control, based on the in-depth study of the characteristics of flood disasters and one-dimensional hydrodynamic model of the main stream of Qijiang River, the current situation and main problems of flood control in this area are analysed, and the reasons for the insufficient capacity of flood control are found out. The flood control effects of Engineering measures, such as the optimization and reconstruction of shipping cascades, river regulation, river-crossing bridges construction, levee construction and flood diversion tunnels were studied, and the flood control planning scheme was put forward. It is suggested that comprehensive governance should be carried out based on the requirements of urban landscape, and the combination scheme of cascade optimization and reconstruction + river regulation + dike construction is recommended.
Vertical Dynamic Response of Rock-Socketed Piles in a Layered Foundation
Authors: Liu Chun Lin , Zhang Shuo , Tang Meng Xiong , Hu He Song , Hou Zhen Kun , Chen Hang
Published: June 2020

A simplified method is presented to investigate the dynamic response of rock-socketed piles embedded in a layered foundation. The finite element method is utilized to derive the dynamic stiffness matrix equations of the pile modelled as a 1D bar, and the exact stiffness matrix method is employed to establish the flexibility matrix equations of the foundation modelled as a 3D body. According to the pilesoil interaction condition, these matrices are incorporated together to obtain the solution for the dynamic response of rock-socketed piles. Finally, some numerical results are given to illustrate the influence of rocksocketed depth on the pile vertical impedance.
Fluid-kinetic modelling for respiratory aerosols with variable size and temperature
Authors: Boudin Laurent , Grandmont Céline , Grec Bérénice , Martin Sébastien , Mecherbet Amina , Noël Frédérique
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we propose a coupled fluid-kinetic model taking into account the radius growth of aerosol particles due to humidity in the respiratory system. We aim to numerically investigate the impact of hygroscopic effects on the particle behaviour. The air flow is described by the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations, and the aerosol by a Vlasov-type equation involving the air humidity and temperature, both quantities satisfying a convection-diffusion equation with a source term. Conservations properties are checked and an explicit time-marching scheme is proposed. Twodimensional numerical simulations in a branched structure show the influence of the particle size variations on the aerosol dynamics.
Geometry description and mesh construction from medical imaging
Authors: Carlino Michele Giuliano , Ricka Philippe , Phan Minh , Bertoluzza Silvia , Pennacchio Micol , Patanè Giuseppe , Spagnuolo Michela
Published: June 2020

We present a new method for defining and meshing patient-specific domains from medical images. Our approach is based on an atlas image segmentation technique, and relies on the modular registration algorithm of S. Bertoluzza et al. [25]. The mesh of the patient-specific domain is generated by deforming the corresponding mesh on an a priori segmented and meshed reference image (the atlas). Our method aims at automating the process at the interface of medical imaging and numerical simulation, thus reducing the computational cost in those situations where simulations have to be managed on numerous medical images of similar patients.
A multi-scale epidemic model of Salmonella infection with heterogeneous shedding
Authors: Labarthe Simon , Laroche Béatrice , Nguyen Thi Nhu Tao , Polizzi Bastien , Patout Florian , Ribot Magali , Stegmaier Tabea
Published: June 2020

Salmonella strains colonize the digestive tract of farm livestock, such as chickens or pigs, without affecting them, and potentially infect food products, representing a threat for human health ranging from food poisoning to typhoid fever. It has been shown that the ability to excrete the pathogen in the environment and contaminate other animals is variable. This heterogeneity in pathogen carriage and shedding results from interactions between the host’s immune response, the pathogen and the commensal intestinal microbiota. In this paper we propose a novel generic multiscale modeling framework of heterogeneous pathogen transmission in an animal population. At the intra-host level, the model describes the interaction between the commensal microbiota, the pathogen and the inflammatory response. Random fluctuations in the ecological dynamics of the individual microbiota and transmission at between-host scale are added to obtain a drift-diffusion PDE model of the pathogen distribution at the population level. The model is further extended to represent transmission between several populations. The asymptotic behavior as well as the impact of control strategies including cleaning and antimicrobial administration are investigated through numerical simulation.
Vorstellung einer europaweiten prospektiven Studie zur Wertigkeit einer Drainage bei Parotidektomie
Authors: Grosheva Maria , Klußmann Jens Peter , Beutner Dirk , Formanek Michael , Lill Claudia , Laskawi Rainer , Zenk Johannes , Pick Carina , Erlacher Birgit , Bemmer Julian , Thielker Jovanna , Jering Monika , Tostmann Ralf , Guntinas-Lichius Orlando
Published: June 2020

Einleitung Zur Wertigkeit einer Wunddrainage bei einer Parotidektomie existieren keine validen klinischen Studien. Das Ziel der aktuellen Studie ist es zu untersuchen, ob durch die Einlage bzw. den Verzicht auf eine geschlossene Wunddrainage (sog. Redon) bei einer lateralen und partiellen Parotidektomie die Häufigkeit der postoperativen Komplikationen, wie Nachblutung, Wundheilungsstörung und Wundinfektion sowie Speichelzyste und -fistel beeinflusst wird.

Methoden Es wurde eine europaweite multizentrische, prospektive, randomisierte Studie geplant. Durch das Hauptprüfzentrum (HNO-Uniklinik Köln), in Kooperation mit den HNO-Universitätskliniken Jena und Göttingen, wurde das Studienprotokoll erstellt. Die Fallzahlberechnung wurde mit G*Power durchgeführt. Die Studie umfasst Probanden mit einer Indikation zu Parotidektomie bei einem gutartigen Tumor ohne bekannte Gerinnungsstörung oder weitergeführte Antikoagulation. Die präoperative Randomisierung und das Data Management erfolgen softwaregestützt (REDCap 9.1.24, Vanderbilt University).

Ergebnisse Die Studie wurde 10/2019 durch die federführende Ethikkommission zustimmend bewertet und ist seit April 2019 offen. Zum aktuellen Zeitpunkt nehmen 9 HNO-Kliniken, davon 6 in Deutschland und 3 in Österreich, an der Studie teil. Hierbei werden in 7 Zentren aktiv Probanden eingeschlossen. Bei einer kalkulierten Follow-to-treat-Gruppengröße von 800 Probanden beträgt die geplante Laufzeit der Studie 4 Jahre.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Redon-Studie ist die weltweit erste prospektive randomisierte Studie, die die Wertigkeit einer Drainageeinlage bei einer Parotidektomie untersucht. Um das Rekrutierungsziel in geplanter Zeit erreichen zu können, ist die Teilnahme weiterer spezialisierter Kliniken dringend notwendig. Wir möchten zudem alle HNO-Ärzte ermutigen, ihre Patienten auf die Redon-Studie aufmerksam zu machen, sie über die Möglichkeit zur Studienteilnahme aufzuklären und in eine der teilnehmenden Kliniken zu überweisen.
A Survey of Labor and Delivery Practices in New York City during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Peña Juan A. , Bianco Angela T. , Simpson Lynn L. , Bernstein Peter S. , Roman Ashley S. , Goffman Dena , Schweizer William E. , Overbey Jessica , Stone Joanne L.
Published: June 2020

Recently, a novel coronavirus, precisely severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), that causes the disease novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been declared a worldwide pandemic. Over a million cases have been confirmed in the United States. As of May 5, 2020, New York State has had over 300,000 cases and 24,000 deaths with more than half of the cases and deaths occurring in New York City (NYC). Little is known, however, of how this virus impacts pregnancy. Given this lack of data and the risk for severe disease in this relatively immunocompromised population, further understanding of the obstetrical management of COVID-19, as well as hospital level preparation for its control, is crucial. Guidance has come from expert opinion, professional societies and public health agencies, but to date, there is no report on how obstetrical practices have adapted these recommendations to their local situations. We therefore developed an internet-based survey to elucidate the practices put into place to guide the care of obstetrical patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. We surveyed obstetrical leaders in four academic medical centers in NYC who were implementing and testing protocols at the height of the pandemic. We found that all sites made changes to their practices, and that there appeared to be agreement with screening and testing for COVID-19, as well as labor and delivery protocols, for SARS-CoV-2-positive patients. We found less consensus with respect to inpatient antepartum fetal surveillance. We hope that this experience is useful to other centers as they formulate their plans to face this pandemic.

Key Points
Generalized symplectic Schur functions and SUC hierarchy
Authors: Huang Fang , Wang Na
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we first define a generalization of the symplectic Schur functions and their vertex operator realizations. By means of the vertex operators, we obtain a series of non-linear partial differential equations of infinite order, the symplectic UC hierarchy (called the SUC hierarchy); we regard it as an extension of the symplectic KP hierarchy.
Asymptotic profiles of solutions to the generalized double dispersion equation with structural damping
Authors: Wang Yu-Zhu , Li Yanshuo
Published: June 2020

In this paper, we study the Cauchy problem for the generalized double dispersion equation with structural damping. The equation behaves as the usual diffusion phenomenon over the low frequency domain, while it admits a feature of regularity-loss on the high frequency part. The feature of regularity-loss leads to the weakly dissipative property of the equation. To overcome the weakly dissipative property, the time-weighted energy is introduced, and extra regularity on the initial data is required. Under suitable conditions on the initial data and space dimensions, we prove the global existence and time-decay rates of solutions. The proof is based on the spectral analysis for the solution operators, time-weighted energy, and the contraction mapping theorem. Moreover, we also establish the asymptotic profiles of global solutions involving the nonlinear term for n ≥ 3, ν∈(0,12) and n ≥ 4, ν∈[12,1), respectively.