bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Response to Combined Molecular- and External Radiotherapy in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)
Authors: Rassamegevanon Treewut , Feindt Louis , Koi Lydia , Müller Johannes , Freudenberg Robert , Löck Steffen , Sihver Wiebke , Çevik Enes , Kühn Ariane Christel , von Neubeck Cläre , Linge Annett , Pietzsch Hans-Jürgen , Kotzerke Jörg , Baumann Michael , Krause Mechthild , Dietrich Antje
Published: November 2021

Combination treatment of molecular targeted and external radiotherapy is a promising strategy and was shown to improve local tumor control in a HNSCC xenograft model. To enhance the therapeutic value of this approach, this study investigated the underlying molecular response. Subcutaneous HNSCC FaDuDD xenografts were treated with single or combination therapy (X-ray: 0, 2, 4 Gy; anti-EGFR antibody (Cetuximab) (un-)labeled with Yttrium-90 (90Y)). Tumors were excised 24 h post respective treatment. Residual DNA double strand breaks (DSB), mRNA expression of DNA damage response related genes, immunoblotting, tumor histology, and immunohistological staining were analyzed. An increase in number and complexity of residual DNA DSB was observed in FaDuDD tumors exposed to the combination treatment of external irradiation and 90Y-Cetuximab relative to controls. The increase was observed in a low oxygenated area, suggesting the expansion of DNA DSB damages. Upregulation of genes encoding p21cip1/waf1 (CDKN1A) and GADD45α (GADD45A) was determined in the combination treatment group, and immunoblotting as well as immunohistochemistry confirmed the upregulation of p21cip1/waf1. The increase in residual γH2AX foci leads to the blockage of cell cycle transition and subsequently to cell death, which could be observed in the upregulation of p21cip1/waf1 expression and an elevated number of cleaved caspase-3 positive cells. Overall, a complex interplay between DNA damage repair and programmed cell death accounts for the potential benefit of the combination therapy using 90Y-Cetuximab and external radiotherapy.
Oncogenic KRAS: Signaling and Drug Resistance
Authors: Kim Hyeon Jin , Lee Han Na , Jeong Mi Suk , Jang Se Bok
Published: November 2021

RAS proteins play a role in many physiological signals transduction processes, including cell growth, division, and survival. The Ras protein has amino acids 188-189 and functions as GTPase. These proteins are switch molecules that cycle between inactive GDP-bound and active GTP-bound by guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs). KRAS is one of the Ras superfamily isoforms (N-RAS, H-RAS, and K-RAS) that frequently mutate in cancer. The mutation of KRAS is essentially performing the transformation in humans. Since most RAS proteins belong to GTPase, mutated and GTP-bound active RAS is found in many cancers. Despite KRAS being an important molecule in mostly human cancer, including pancreatic and breast, numerous efforts in years past have persisted in cancer therapy targeting KRAS mutant. This review summarizes the biological characteristics of these proteins and the recent progress in the exploration of KRAS-targeted anticancer, leading to new insight.
STING Signaling and Skin Cancers
Authors: Sato Sayaka , Sawada Yu , Nakamura Motonobu
Published: November 2021

Recent developments in immunotherapy against malignancies overcome the disadvantages of traditional systemic treatments; however, this immune checkpoint treatment is not perfect and cannot obtain a satisfactory clinical outcome in all cases. Therefore, an additional therapeutic option for malignancy is needed in oncology. Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) has recently been highlighted as a strong type I interferon driver and shows anti-tumor immunity against various malignancies. STING-targeted anti-tumor immunotherapy is expected to enhance the anti-tumor effects and clinical outcomes of immunotherapy against malignancies. In this review, we focus on recent advancements in the knowledge gained from research on STING signaling in skin cancers. In addition to the limitations of STING-targeted immunotherapy, we also discuss the clinical application of STING agonists in the treatment of skin cancer.
Defining the Frontiers of Synergism between Cellulolytic Enzymes for Improved Hydrolysis of Lignocellulosic Feedstocks
Authors: Mafa Mpho S. , Pletschke Brett I. , Malgas Samkelo
Published: November 2021

Lignocellulose has economic potential as a bio-resource for the production of value-added products (VAPs) and biofuels. The commercialization of biofuels and VAPs requires efficient enzyme cocktail activities that can lower their costs. However, the basis of the synergism between enzymes that compose cellulolytic enzyme cocktails for depolymerizing lignocellulose is not understood. This review aims to address the degree of synergism (DS) thresholds between the cellulolytic enzymes and how this can be used in the formulation of effective cellulolytic enzyme cocktails. DS is a powerful tool that distinguishes between enzymes’ synergism and anti-synergism during the hydrolysis of biomass. It has been established that cellulases, or cellulases and lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs), always synergize during cellulose hydrolysis. However, recent evidence suggests that this is not always the case, as synergism depends on the specific mechanism of action of each enzyme in the combination. Additionally, expansins, nonenzymatic proteins responsible for loosening cell wall fibers, seem to also synergize with cellulases during biomass depolymerization. This review highlighted the following four key factors linked to DS: (1) a DS threshold at which the enzymes synergize and produce a higher product yield than their theoretical sum, (2) a DS threshold at which the enzymes display synergism, but not a higher product yield, (3) a DS threshold at which enzymes do not synergize, and (4) a DS threshold that displays anti-synergy. This review deconvolutes the DS concept for cellulolytic enzymes, to postulate an experimental design approach for achieving higher synergism and cellulose conversion yields.
Review: Mechanisms of Glyphosate and Glyphosate-Based Herbicides Action in Female and Male Fertility in Humans and Animal Models
Authors: Serra Loïse , Estienne Anthony , Vasseur Claudine , Froment Pascal , Dupont Joëlle
Published: November 2021

Glyphosate (G), also known as N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine is the declared active ingredient of glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) such as Roundup largely used in conventional agriculture. It is always used mixed with formulants. G acts in particular on the shikimate pathway, which exists in bacteria, for aromatic amino acids synthesis, but this pathway does not exist in vertebrates. In recent decades, researchers have shown by using various animal models that GBHs are endocrine disruptors that might alter reproductive functions. Our review describes the effects of exposure to G or GBHs on the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis in males and females in terms of endocrine disruption, cell viability, and proliferation. Most of the main regulators of the reproductive axis (GPR54, GnRH, LH, FSH, estradiol, testosterone) are altered at all levels of the HPG axis (hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries, testis, placenta, uterus) by exposure to GBHs which are considered more toxic than G alone due to the presence of formulants such as polyoxyethylene tallow amine (POEA).” In addition, we report intergenerational impacts of exposure to G or GBHs and, finally, we discuss different strategies to reduce the negative effects of GBHs on fertility.
WWOX-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Models and Future Perspectives
Authors: Steinberg Daniel J. , Aqeilan Rami I.
Published: November 2021

The WW domain-containing oxidoreductase (WWOX) gene was originally discovered as a putative tumor suppressor spanning the common fragile site FRA16D, but as time has progressed the extent of its pleiotropic function has become apparent. At present, WWOX is a major source of interest in the context of neurological disorders, and more specifically developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs). This review article aims to introduce the many model systems used through the years to study its function and roles in neuropathies. Similarities and fundamental differences between rodent and human models are discussed. Finally, future perspectives and promising research avenues are suggested.
Biomarkers and Fever in Children with Cancer: Kinetics and Levels According to Final Diagnosis
Authors: de Lucio Delgado Ana , Villegas Rubio Jose Antonio , Rey Galan Corsino , Prieto García Belen , González Expósito Maria de los Reyes , Solís Sánchez Gonzalo
Published: November 2021

We investigated the kinetics of CRP, PCT, IL-6 and MR-proADM in a cohort of consecutive febrile patients with cancer in order to test the hypothesis that higher plasma concentrations and the absence of a rapid decrease in peak values would be associated with disease severity. (1) Method: A prospective descriptive and analytical study of patients with cancer and fever (≤18 years of age) at a University Hospital was carried out between January 2018 and December 2019. Information collected: sex, age, diagnosis, date and symptoms at diagnosis and medical history. The episodes were classified into three groups: bacterial infection, non-bacterial infection and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). (2) Results: One hundred and thirty-four episodes were included. Bacterial infection criteria were met in 38 episodes. Biomarkers were measured at four different points: baseline, at 12–24 h, at 25–48 h and at 49–72 h. All the biomarkers evaluated decreased after the peak level was reached. IL-6 and MR-proADM showed a trend towards higher levels in the SIRS group although this rise was statistically significant only for IL-6 (p < 0.005). Bacterial infections more frequently presented values of PCT above the cut-off point (>0.5 ng/mL) at 12–24 h. (3) Conclusion: In our experience, IL-6 kinetics is faster than PCT kinetics and both are faster than CRP in patients with fever and cancer who present a good outcome. Patients with a good evolution show a rapid increase and decrease of PCT and particularly of IL-6 levels.
Soybean Oil Enriched with Antioxidants Extracted from Watermelon (Citrullus colocynthis) Skin Sap and Coated in Hydrogel Beads via Ionotropic Gelation
Authors: Farooq Muhammad , Azadfar Elham , Trif Monica , Jabaleh Ramezan Ali , Rusu Alexandru , Bahrami Zohre , Sharifi Mahniya , Bangar Sneh Punia , Ilyas Naila , Ștefănescu Bianca Eugenia , Wang Yunyang
Published: November 2021

Many plants and fruits are rich in antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds, such as phenolic compounds. Watermelon is one example, as various parts of the fruit present interesting phytochemical profiles. This study demonstrates that a natural C. colocynthis (watermelon) (W) skin sap (SS) extract can effectively improve the oxidative stability of microencapsulated soybean (SB) oil. By employing a combination of alginate–xanthan gums (AXG) in a matrix hydrogel bead model with WSS extract, high encapsulation efficiency can be obtained (86%). The effects of process variables on the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds from watermelon (W) skin sap (SS) using the response surface methodology (RSM), as an optimized and efficient extraction process, are compared with the effects of a conventional extraction method, namely the percolation method. The WSS extracts are obtained via UAE and RSM or the conventional percolation extraction method. The two obtained extracts and synthetic antioxidant butylated hydroxytolune (BHT) are added to SB oil separately and their antioxidant effects are tested and compared. The results show the improved oxidative stability of SB oil containing the extract obtained via the optimized method (20–30%) compared to the SB oil samples containing extract obtained via the percolation extraction method, synthetic antioxidant (BHT), and SB oil only as the control (no antioxidant added). According to existing studies, we assume that the use of WSS as an effective antioxidant will ensure the prolonged stability of encapsulated SB oil in hydrogel beads, as it is well known that extended storage under different conditions may lead to severe lipid oxidation.
Unsteady Convective MHD Flow and Heat Transfer of a Viscous Nanofluid across a Porous Stretching/Shrinking Surface: Existence of Multiple Solutions
Authors: Alshehri Nawal , Abidi Awatef , Khan Muhammad , Reddy Yanala , Rasheed Saim , Alali Elham , Galal Ahmed
Published: November 2021

The suspension of tiny solid particles inside the energy transport liquids could enhance their thermal conductivity as well as provide an efficient and inventive approach to significantly improve their properties of heat transport. Therefore, our aim is to explore the radiative two-dimensional unsteady flow of a viscous nanofluid about an aligned magnetic field that includes the joint effect of suction, velocity slip, and heat source across a porous convective stretching/shrinking surface. Initially, using non-dimensional variables, the nonlinear governing partial differential equations (PDEs) were transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs) which were subsequently solved with the help of bvp4c built-in package in MATLAB. The results declare that escalating the values of the unsteadiness parameter escalates the friction drag whereas it reduces with the escalation of the slip parameter. Furthermore, the heat transfer rate escalates with the escalation of radiation and concentration parameter, and the escalation of the heat source parameter causes to reduce the heat transfer rate. Finally, it is found that the rate of heat transfer and friction drag continuously improve and decline against the rising rates of stretching, respectively.
The Role of Immunotherapy in the Treatment of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Authors: Banerji Shantanu , Meyers Daniel E. , Harlos Craig , Dawe David E.
Published: November 2021

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive malignancy arising from mesothelial cells that line the serous membranes of the body. Cytotoxic chemotherapy has been a mainstay of therapy, resulting in a modest improvement in overall survival, but toxicity limits the eligible patient population. Few targeted agents beyond bevacizumab have demonstrated superior efficacy compared to placebos. With an improved understanding of the relationship between the immune system and cancer progression, immunotherapies are playing a greater role in the treatment of many cancers. Several early- and late-phase trials in malignant pleural mesothelioma, including assessments of the first-line efficacy of combination ipilimumab/nivolumab treatment, have now demonstrated promising results for both immune checkpoint inhibition and cell-based therapies. These immune therapies are likely to play a central role in the treatment of this disease going forward.
Service Sire Effects on Body Condition Score, Milk Production, and Rebreeding of Mixed-Aged Dairy Cows Bred to Angus and Hereford Bulls—A Case Study in New Zealand
Authors: Coleman Lucy , Back Penny , Blair Hugh , López-Villalobos Nicolas , Hickson Rebecca
Published: November 2021

Beef-breed bulls are used in dairy herds to produce a calf of greater value for finishing than calves sired by dairy bulls. There is limited research about which beef-breed bulls are most appropriate, and whether any negative impact on cow performance in terms of milk production and rebreeding should be considered. The aim of this case study was to compare the body condition score, milk production, and rebreeding performance of mixed-aged dairy cows bred to a selection of Angus and Hereford beef-breed bulls. Body condition score, post-calving live weight, milk production, rebreeding performance, and survival of 952 mixed-aged dairy cows artificially bred to 65 Angus and Hereford bulls were compared. There was no effect of service sire on post-calving live weight, days in milk, milk production, or inter-calving intervals of mixed-aged cows. Service sire had an effect on the calving day due to differences in gestation length (p < 0.001), although this did not translate into an effect on days in milk. A longer gestation length negatively influenced pregnancy rates, and greater birth weight of the calf negatively influenced survival to rebreeding (p < 0.05), indicating the potential for an effect of service sire. Selection of beef-breed service sires for dairy cows should include emphasis on lighter calves and shorter gestation lengths. The general absence of the service sire effect on the parameters measured in this study indicated that any of the service sires used in this experiment would be appropriate for use over dairy cows.
Solenoid Configurations and Gravitational Free Energy of the AdS–Melvin Spacetime
Authors: Lim Yen-Kheng
Published: November 2021

In this paper we explore a solenoid configuration involving a magnetic universe solution embedded in an empty Anti-de Sitter (AdS) spacetime. This requires a non-trivial surface current at the interface between the two spacetimes, which can be provided by a charged scalar field. When the interface is taken to the AdS boundary, we recover the full AdS–Melvin spacetime. The stability of the AdS–Melvin solution is also studied by computing the gravitational free energy from the Euclidean action.
The Composition of Saturated Vapor over 1-Butyl-3-methylimidazolium Tetrafluoroborate Ionic Liquid: A Multi-Technique Study of the Vaporization Process
Authors: Dunaev Anatoliy M. , Motalov Vladimir B. , Kudin Lev S.
Published: November 2021

A multi-technique approach based on Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry, gas phase chromatography, mass spectrometry, NMR and IR spectroscopy, thermal analysis, and quantum-chemical calculations was used to study the evaporation of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMImBF4). The saturated vapor over BMImBF4 was shown to have a complex composition which consisted of the neutral ion pairs (NIPs) [BMIm+][BF4−], imidazole-2-ylidene C8N2H14BF3, 1-methylimidazole C4N2H6, 1-butene C4H8, hydrogen fluoride HF, and boron trifluoride BF3. The vapor composition strongly depends on the evaporation conditions, shifting from congruent evaporation in the form of NIP under Langmuir conditions (open surface) to primary evaporation in the form of decomposition products under equilibrium conditions (Knudsen cell). Decomposition into imidazole-2-ylidene and HF is preferred. The vapor composition of BMImBF4 is temperature-depended as well: the fraction ratio of [BMIm+][BF4−] NIPs to decomposition products decreased by about a factor of three in the temperature range from 450 K to 510 K.
A Regularization Homotopy Strategy for the Constrained Parameter Inversion of Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Liu Tao , Xue Runqi , Liu Chao , Qi Yunfei
Published: November 2021

The main difficulty posed by the parameter inversion of partial differential equations lies in the presence of numerous local minima in the cost function. Inversion fails to converge to the global minimum point unless the initial estimate is close to the exact solution. Constraints can improve the convergence of the method, but ordinary iterative methods will still become trapped in local minima if the initial guess is far away from the exact solution. In order to overcome this drawback fully, this paper designs a homotopy strategy that makes natural use of constraints. Furthermore, due to the ill-posedness of inverse problem, the standard Tikhonov regularization is incorporated. The efficiency of the method is illustrated by solving the coefficient inversion of the saturation equation in the two-phase porous media.
On Architecture Selection for Linear Inverse Problems with Untrained Neural Networks
Authors: Sun Yang , Zhao Hangdong , Scarlett Jonathan
Published: November 2021

In recent years, neural network based image priors have been shown to be highly effective for linear inverse problems, often significantly outperforming conventional methods that are based on sparsity and related notions. While pre-trained generative models are perhaps the most common, it has additionally been shown that even untrained neural networks can serve as excellent priors in various imaging applications. In this paper, we seek to broaden the applicability and understanding of untrained neural network priors by investigating the interaction between architecture selection, measurement models (e.g., inpainting vs. denoising vs. compressive sensing), and signal types (e.g., smooth vs. erratic). We motivate the problem via statistical learning theory, and provide two practical algorithms for tuning architectural hyperparameters. Using experimental evaluations, we demonstrate that the optimal hyperparameters may vary significantly between tasks and can exhibit large performance gaps when tuned for the wrong task. In addition, we investigate which hyperparameters tend to be more important, and which are robust to deviations from the optimum.
Effect of COVID-19 Closures and Distance-Learning on Biology Research Projects of High School Students in Israel
Authors: Yosef Reuven , Talker Sigal , Sadeh Irit
Published: November 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has created a situation, the “anthropopause”, of lockdowns and distancing among individuals to reduce the spread of the disease. One of the major problems to surface is the inequality of the educational process in schools. We present a study of high school students who conduct a year-long research project with an academic. We hypothesized that the projects would not be impacted because of the individual manner of study involved. We analyzed the number of research proposals submitted in the years 2015–2021. We compared the data of the pre-epidemic period with the two pandemic years, 2020 and 2021. Our data show that in the years of the pandemic, significantly less research proposals were submitted, and the number of research proposals rejected was lower, but the total number of research proposals approved, or the number of theses submitted, was not significantly different. The research areas in which Israeli high school students conducted research were mostly in the laboratory (63.2%) and agriculture (27.5%), while ecology was relatively insignificant—whether in captivity (3.1%) or the field (5.1%). A new field that is fast becoming of interest is bioinformatics. Research in agriculture was significantly lower during the pandemic period, while there were no differences in the other subjects between the two periods. We conclude that the fewer research proposals submitted suggest that those that did not take the subject seriously enough did not begin the process. This resulted in a lower number of rejections and is substantiated by the fact that an equal number of students that submitted their final theses did not differ from the years before the pandemic. We are optimistic that the truly motivated students will continue to make the effort to be involved in biology science projects over and above their regular school curriculum and in spite of the COVID-19 restrictions and limitations.
Arching from Function to Form—Important Design Elements of Simulation Exercises (SimEx) in Emergency Response and Disaster Risk Management
Authors: Covaciu Andra Iustina , Abrahamsson Marcus , Beck Albrecht , Rai Shivani , Sapkota Niroj , Shapiro Mark , Szarzynski Joerg
Published: November 2021

With Rasmussen’s abstraction hierarchy as starting point, the present article focuses on understanding some of the aspects guiding the development of a simulation exercise (SimEx) from a multi-faceted perspective, based on interviews and post-exercise evaluations conducted with both exercise designers and participants. The results show that, in order to achieve its overarching objective, an exercise must fulfill a wide range of “functions”, which in turn can take various kinds of “forms” or actual representations in the physical world. The paper discusses a number of identified required functions of a SimEx, sometimes labeled as design elements, and furthermore elaborates on differences and specific requirements at form level, e.g., virtual vs. physical exercises.
A Review of the Reliability of Integrated IR Laser Diodes for Silicon Photonics
Authors: Buffolo Matteo , De Santi Carlo , Norman Justin , Shang Chen , Bowers John Edward , Meneghesso Gaudenzio , Zanoni Enrico , Meneghini Matteo
Published: November 2021

With this review paper we provide an overview of the main degradation mechanisms that limit the long-term reliability of IR semiconductor lasers for silicon photonics applications. The discussion is focused on two types of laser diodes: heterogeneous III–V lasers bonded onto silicon-on-insulator wafers, and InAs quantum-dot lasers epitaxially grown on silicon. A comprehensive analysis of the reliability-oriented literature published to date reveals that state-of-the-art heterogeneous laser sources share with conventional laser diodes their major epitaxy-related degradation processes, such as the generation of non-radiative recombination centers or dopant diffusion, while eliminating cleaved facets and exposed mirrors. The lifetime of InAs quantum dot lasers grown on silicon, whose development represents a fundamental step toward a fully epitaxial integration of future photonic integrated circuits, is strongly limited by the density of extended defects, mainly misfit dislocations, protruding into the active layer of the devices. The concentration of such defects, along with inefficient carrier injection and excessive carrier overflow rates, promote recombination-enhanced degradation mechanisms that reduce the long-term reliability of these sources. The impact of these misfits can be largely eliminated with the inclusion of blocking layers.
Eco-Friendly and Economical Solar Heater Design Using Internal Structure and Phase Change Materials
Authors: Lee Jihu , Son Sung-Hun , Kim Kibum
Published: November 2021

Indoor heating systems currently used are highly dependent on fossil fuels; hence, it is urgent to develop a new heating system to achieve carbon zero-emission. A solar air heater is eco-friendly because it generates nearly zero greenhouse gases. In this study, a parametric study was conducted for optimizing solar air heater design applicable to indoor heating. Installing the internal structure in the solar heater changes the interior flow characteristic, resulting in the air temperature increased by about 14.2 K on average compared to the heater without the internal structure. An additional case study was carried out to optimize the ideal quantity of phase change materials (PCM) in terms of mass fraction and heat capacity for various operating conditions. An excessive amount of PCM (e.g., 66% of the storage space filled with PCM) deteriorates the performance of the air heater unless the entire PCM could be melted during the daytime. After heating, the air temperature was maintained the longest when only 33% of the internal space was filled with PCM. The solar air heater can fully replace or partly assist a conventional heater for indoor heating, and it could reduce approximately 0.6 tCO2 per year.
Designing Virtual Reality Environments through an Authoring System Based on CAD Floor Plans: A Methodology and Case Study Applied to Electric Power Substations for Supervision
Authors: Barreto Junior Camilo de Lellis , Cardoso Alexandre , Lamounier Júnior Edgard Afonso , Silva Paulo Camargos , Silva Alexandre Carvalho
Published: November 2021

The adoption of Virtual Reality (RV) technologies in prototype design and process revision has contributed to multiple industry areas. Nonetheless, the development of VR systems for engineering is a complex task, as it involves specialized teams handling low-level code development. Given these problems, the goal of this study is presenting a methodology for designing VR, through an Authoring System based on Computer-Aided Design (CAD). The presented methodology provides an easy integration of electric power substation floor plans and Virtual Reality software (VRS), as well as three-dimensional and symbol modeling conventions. Centralized software architecture was developed, composed of the CAD Editor, input manager and VRS. The methodology was evaluated through a case study applied to the conception (elaboration) of electric power substations (EPS) as part of a Research and Development (R&D) project for training and field assets supervision. The results demonstrated visual precision and high integrity in elaboration of a VR environment from the CAD floor plan. This work also presents a comparative analysis between manual conception and the Authoring System.
Effect of Tillage System and Organic Matter Management Interactions on Soil Chemical Properties and Biological Activity in a Spring Wheat Short-Time Cultivation
Authors: Breza-Boruta Barbara , Kotwica Karol , Bauza-Kaszewska Justyna
Published: November 2021

Properly selected tillage methods and management of the available organic matter resources are considered important measures to enable farming in accordance with the principles of sustainable agriculture. Depending on the depth and intensity of cultivation, tillage practices affect soil chemical composition, structure and biological activity. The three-year experiment was performed on the soil under spring wheat (cv. Tybalt) short-time cultivation. The influence of different tillage systems and stubble management on the soil’s chemical and biological parameters was analyzed. Organic carbon content (OC); content of biologically available phosphorus (Pa), potassium (Ka), and magnesium (Mg); content of total nitrogen (TN), mineral nitrogen forms: N-NO3 and N-NH4 were determined in various soil samples. Moreover, the total number of microorganisms (TNM), bacteria (B), actinobacteria (A), fungi (F); soil respiratory activity (SR); and pH in 1 M KCl (pH) were also investigated. The results show that organic matter amendment is of greater influence on soil characteristics than the tillage system applied. Manure application, as well as leaving the straw in the field, resulted in higher amounts of organic carbon and biologically available potassium. A significant increase in the number of soil microorganisms was also observed in soil samples from the experimental plots including this procedure.
Assessing Maximum Power Point Tracking Intelligent Techniques on a PV System with a Buck–Boost Converter
Authors: Guerra Maria I. S. , Ugulino de Araújo Fábio M. , Dhimish Mahmoud , Vieira Romênia G.
Published: November 2021

Classic and intelligent techniques aim to locate and track the maximum power point of photovoltaic (PV) systems, such as perturb and observe (P&O), fuzzy logic (FL), artificial neural networks (ANNs), and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference systems (ANFISs). This paper proposes and compares three intelligent algorithms for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control, specifically fuzzy, ANN, and ANFIS. The modeling of a single-diode equivalent circuit-based 3 kWp PV plant was developed and validated to achieve this purpose. Then, the MPPT techniques were designed and applied to control the buck–boost converter’s switching device of the PV plant. All three methods use the ambient conditions as input variables: solar irradiance and ambient temperature. The proposed methodology comprises the study of the dynamic response for tracking the maximum power point and the power generated of the PV systems, and it was compared to the classic P&O technique under varying ambient conditions. We observed that the intelligent techniques outperformed the classic P&O method in tracking speed, tracking accuracy, and reducing oscillation around the maximum power point (MPP). The ANN technique was the better control algorithm in energy gain, managing to recover up to 9.9% power.
Carbon Neutral China by 2060: The Role of Clean Heating Systems
Authors: Su Chang , Urban Frauke
Published: November 2021

Smog pollution is a severe social and environmental concern for the space-heating regions in China due to fossil-intensive space heating. To reduce polluting emissions and improve social and environmental performance, local government agencies should choose adequate cleaner space-heating technologies based on diverse local conditions. This implies that all cleaner heating solutions should be considered, including low-emissions fossil fuel district heating and low-emissions fossil fuel decentralized heating as transitional technologies, as well as biomass and electricity-driven heat pumps as long-term solutions. However, stakeholders such as policy makers, equipment manufacturers, and house owners, often lack necessary information to assess the feasibility for installing adequate heating solutions at the local level. It is therefore necessary to establish a systematic method to evaluate each heating solution in various geolocations of China. This paper reviews the current heating situation in China and proposes a spatial system analysis method as a tool for heating-solution feasibility evaluation. By applying the spatial system analysis method, a qualitative investigation on the choice of heating solution in different regions of China is provided.
Improved Voltage Flux-Weakening Strategy of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor in High-Speed Operation
Authors: Lee Hyun-Jae , Shon Jin-Geun
Published: November 2021

This paper presents an improved voltage flux-weakening strategy of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) in a high-speed operation. The speed control performance using voltage flux-weakening control is not affected by the motor parameters, so it is used in various motors for high-speed operations. In general, the voltage flux-weakening control uses voltage references to generate a flux axis current reference. However, there may be errors between the voltage reference and the actual voltage flowing into the motor. This causes an error in the current reference generation and reduces the efficiency of the inverter and motor due to the use of more current. In this paper, the problems that can occur due to voltage errors were analyzed through theoretical approaches and simulations, and improved voltage flux-weakening control to resolve these problems was presented. This method’s advantage is that the error between the voltage reference and the voltage applied to the motor can be minimized, and the target speed can be reached with minimum current. As a result, it was possible to increase the energy efficiency by reducing the amount of current flowing through the motor. The effect of the improved voltage-based flux-weakening control method was verified through simulations and experiments. As a result, the voltage errors were reduced by approximately 2.16% compared to the general method. Moreover, the current used in the field-weakening control region was reduced by up to 27.17% under the same torque condition.
A New Methodological Approach for the Evaluation of Scaling Up a Latent Storage Module for Integration in Heat Pumps
Authors: Zsembinszki Gabriel , Mselle Boniface Dominick , Vérez David , Borri Emiliano , Strehlow Andreas , Nitsch Birgo , Frazzica Andrea , Palomba Valeria , Cabeza Luisa F.
Published: November 2021

A clear gap was identified in the literature regarding the in-depth evaluation of scaling up thermal energy storage components. To cover such a gap, a new methodological approach was developed and applied to a novel latent thermal energy storage module. The purpose of this paper is to identify some key aspects to be considered when scaling up the module from lab-scale to full-scale using different performance indicators calculated in both charge and discharge. Different normalization methods were applied to allow an appropriate comparison of the results at both scales. As a result of the scaling up, the theoretical energy storage capacity increases by 52% and 145%, the average charging power increases by 21% and 94%, while the average discharging power decreases by 16% but increases by 36% when mass and volume normalization methods are used, respectively. When normalization by the surface area of heat transfer is used, all of the above performance indicators decrease, especially the average discharging power, which decreases by 49%. Moreover, energy performance in charge and discharge decreases by 17% and 15%, respectively. However, efficiencies related to charging, discharging, and round-trip processes are practically not affected by the scaling up.
Natural Regeneration of the Tree Stand in the Bilberry Spruce Forest—Clear-Cutting Ecotone Complex in the First Post-Logging Decade
Authors: Genikova Nadezhda V. , Mamontov Viktor N. , Kryshen Alexander M. , Kharitonov Vladimir A. , Moshnikov Sergey A. , Toropova Elena V.
Published: November 2021

Bilberry spruce forests are the most widespread forest type in the European boreal zone. Limiting the clear-cuttings size leads to fragmentation of forest cover and the appearance of large areas of ecotone complexes, composed of forest (F), a transition from forest to the cut-over site under tree canopy (FE), a transition from forest to the cut-over site beyond tree canopy (CE), and the actual clear-cut site (C). Natural regeneration of woody species (spruce, birch, rowan) in the bilberry spruce stand—clear-cut ecotone complex was studied during the first decade after logging. The effects produced by the time since cutting, forest edge aspect, and the ground cover on the emergence and growth of trees and shrubs under forest canopy and openly in the clear-cut were investigated. Estimating the amount and size of different species in the regeneration showed FE and CE width to be 8 m—roughly half the height of first-story trees. Typical forest conditions (F) feature a relatively small amount of regenerating spruce and birch. The most favorable conditions for natural regeneration of spruce in the clear-cut—mature bilberry spruce stand ecotone are at the forest edge in areas of transition both towards the forest and towards the clear-cut (FE and CE). Clear-cut areas farther from the forest edge (C) offer an advantage to regenerating birch, which grows densely and actively in this area.
Species Diversity and Distribution Pattern of Heritage Trees in the Rapidly-Urbanizing Province of Jiangsu, China
Authors: Li Kaidi , Zhang Guangfu
Published: November 2021

Heritage trees have important ecological, historical, and landscape values in cities. Rapid urbanization may cause dramatic change of ecosystem functions of cities, thereby inevitably affecting the growth performance of ancient trees. However, few studies have explored their species diversity and spatial differentiation on the medium scale in the scenario of urbanization in China. Here, we took Jiangsu Province in China, with developed economy in recent decades, as a typical case. Based on the provincial forest inventory data, we addressed the abundance, species richness, tree density, and species diversity of ancient trees in 13 cities, and their tree habitat, growth status, and tree age, as well. Then, we compared the spatial differentiation of tree attributes by 13 districts and nine tree habitats. We also applied detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) and redundancy analysis (RDA) to determine the leading factor influencing their distribution pattern. The 7678 heritage trees in Jiangsu belonged to 215 species. More than half of the trees were native with domination by Ginkgo biloba. Villages and farmlands accommodated the most heritage trees while parks and gardens harbored the most species. This indicates that sparsely-populated rural community and scenic areas with open space are conducive to accommodating more urban heritage trees. The tier 3 heritage trees (100–299 years) accounted for about 80% of the total. Overall, most ancient trees in Jiangsu grew well. The species diversity index (H) of 13 cities was between 1.98 and 3.39. The H value among the 13 cities was largely affected by elevation range shift, while the tree density by GDP per capita. DCA showed that the ratio of unique species was >40%, and that dominant species presented little habitat preference. Therefore, species diversity among different cities are affected by climate and topography, as well as human factors. With the accelerating urbanization process, tree habitat, cultural tradition, and urban history should be taken into consideration for management and conservation of heritage trees in the future.
Patterns and Internal Stability of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus in Soils and Soil Microbial Biomass in Terrestrial Ecosystems in China: A Data Synthesis
Authors: Pan Yunlong , Fang Fei , Tang Haiping
Published: November 2021

Inspired by the strict constraint ratio (relatively low variability) between carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) in global soils and soil microbial biomass, our study explores the biogeographic distribution of C:N:P stoichiometric ratios in soils and soil microbial biomass in China and seeks to identify areas with similar ratios. Our study also attempts to determine the impacts of soil and soil microbial biomass C:N:P in China and the factors determining the ratio. The element concentrations may vary in each phylogenetic group of soils and soil microbial communities in China’s terrestrial ecosystems, as they do in global terrestrial ecosystems. However, on average, the C:N:P ratios for soil (66:5:1) and soil microbial biomass (22:2:1) are highly constrained within China. Soil microbial biomass C, N, and P concentrations have relatively weak internal stability, while soil microbial biomass C:N, C:P, and N:P ratios do not have internal stability at the national scale and in different terrestrial ecosystems of China. Unlike plant N:P, which can be used as the basis for evaluations of nutrient restrictions, the use of soil or soil microbial biomass N:P to evaluate soil nutrients is not universal. Latitude is the main factor influencing the patterns of soil C, N, and P. Longitude is the main factor determining the patterns of soil microbial biomass C, N, and P. pH is the main nonzonal factor affecting the patterns of soil and soil microbial biomass C, N, and P. The findings of this study are helpful in understanding the spatial pattern of soils and soil microbial biomass and their influencing factors in regions with complex ecosystems.
Postharvest Treatments with Three Yeast Strains and Their Combinations to Control Botrytis cinerea of Snap Beans
Authors: Feng Mingfang , Lv You , Li Tiantian , Li Xinmao , Liu Jiayin , Chen Xiuling , Zhang Yao , Chen Xu , Wang Aoxue
Published: November 2021

Three yeast strains, namely Cryptococcus albidus (Ca63), Cryptococcus albidus (Ca64), and Candida parapsilosis (Yett1006), and their combinations, including single yeast agent, two combined yeast strains, single yeast agent + NaHCO3, single yeast agent + chitosan, single yeast agent + ascorbic acid, and single yeast agent + konjac powder, were evaluated for their activity against Botrytis cinerea, the most economically important fungal pathogens causing postharvest disease of snap beans. In in vitro tests, no inhibition zone was observed in dual cultures of three yeast strains and B. cinerea. The mycelial growth inhibition rates of B. cinerea for Ca63, Ca64, and Yett1006 were 97%, 95%, and 97%, respectively. In in vivo tests, the optimal combination of the lowest disease index of snap beans with B. cinerea was Ca63 + Ca64, with a preventing effect of 75%. The decay rate and rust spots index of Ca64 + ascorbic acid combination were 25% and 20%, respectively, which were the lowest. The activities of defense-related enzymes increased, while malondialdehyde (MDA) content was suppressed in snap beans after different treatments. Our results highlight the potential of the three yeast strains and their combinations as new nonpolluting agents for the integrated control of B. cinerea on snap beans.
Influence of Temperature Conditions during Growth on Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Potential of Wheat and Barley Grasses
Authors: Islam Mohammad Zahirul , Park Buem-Jun , Lee Young-Tack
Published: November 2021

Wheat and barley grasses are freshly sprouted leaves of wheat and barley seeds, and are rich sources of phytochemicals. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of day and night temperatures on the growth, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant potential of wheat and barley grasses. Briefly, each grass was cropped in an organic growing medium at 10/5 °C, 20/15 °C, and 30/25 °C (day/night temperature) in a growth chamber by maintaining specific light (12/12 h light/dark; light intensity 150 µmol photons m−2 s−1) and humidity (60%) conditions for 8 days. The highest growth parameters (height, weight, and yield) were observed at the 20/15 °C growth conditions in both types of grass. Conversely, the lowest growth parameters were observed at 10/5 °C. However, the low growth temperature of 10/5 °C resulted in increased levels of bioactive compounds (total phenol, total flavonoid, and total vitamin C), antioxidant activities (2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging activity)), and antioxidant enzymes (guaiacol peroxidase activity, catalase activity, and glutathione reductase) in both types of grass. Therefore, proper temperature growth conditions of wheat and barley grasses may be a convenient and efficient method to increase bioactive compounds and antioxidant potential in our diet to exploit the related health benefits.
Sensing Technology Survey for Obstacle Detection in Vegetation
Authors: Lohar Shreya , Zhu Lei , Young Stanley , Graf Peter , Blanton Michael
Published: November 2021

This study reviews obstacle detection technologies in vegetation for autonomous vehicles or robots. Autonomous vehicles used in agriculture and as lawn mowers face many environmental obstacles that are difficult to recognize for the vehicle sensor. This review provides information on choosing appropriate sensors to detect obstacles through vegetation, based on experiments carried out in different agricultural fields. The experimental setup from the literature consists of sensors placed in front of obstacles, including a thermal camera; red, green, blue (RGB) camera; 360° camera; light detection and ranging (LiDAR); and radar. These sensors were used either in combination or single-handedly on agricultural vehicles to detect objects hidden inside the agricultural field. The thermal camera successfully detected hidden objects, such as barrels, human mannequins, and humans, as did LiDAR in one experiment. The RGB camera and stereo camera were less efficient at detecting hidden objects compared with protruding objects. Radar detects hidden objects easily but lacks resolution. Hyperspectral sensing systems can identify and classify objects, but they consume a lot of storage. To obtain clearer and more robust data of hidden objects in vegetation and extreme weather conditions, further experiments should be performed for various climatic conditions combining active and passive sensors.