bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predrought and Its Persistence Determined the Phenological Changes of Stipa krylovii in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Liu Erhua , Zhou Guangsheng , He Qijin , Wu Bingyi , Lv Xiaomin
Published: May 2023

Clarifying the response of plant phenology to drought duration is helpful for accurately interpreting and predicting carbon sinks in ecosystems. Based on the response of different phenological periods of the dominant species Stipa krylovii to monthly, seasonal, and semiannual time scale drought in the typical steppe of Inner Mongolia from 1983 to 2018, the results revealed that (1) the start of the growing season (SOS) was characterized by an advance–delay–advance pattern, and the heading stage (HOS), flowering stage (FOS), and end of the growing season (EOS) all showed consistent advanced trends, which provided additional insight into the conclusions of previous studies that found the SOS was advanced in arid and semiarid regions. (2) The response mechanism of the SOS to the timing of drought was not consistent. Among the response mechanism, the SOS was delayed because of the January–February drought at different time scales but advanced because of the April drought at different time scales. The HOS/FOS was delayed by the June–July drought at different time scales, and the EOS was advanced by the August–September drought at different time scales. (3) More importantly, the SOS, HOS, FOS, and EOS were affected by predrought and its persistence, and the effects were greater the closer to the phenological periods that drought occurred. (4) At the monthly scale, droughts in January, June, and August were the critical drought periods affecting the SOS, HOS/FOS, and EOS, while seasonal and semiannual scale droughts in February, June–July, and September were the critical periods affecting the SOS, HOS/FOS, and EOS. The results of this study enrich our understanding of how drought at different time scales affects different phenological periods, providing a basis for improving plant phenological models.
Characterization of Raid Hipico Uruguayo Competencies by Ride Type: Causes of Death and Risk Factors
Authors: Brito Gimena , Damián Juan Pablo , Suárez Gonzalo , Ruprechter Gretel , Trigo Pablo
Published: May 2023

RHU is the oldest endurance sport in Uruguay. However, despite 80 years of racing, there are no studies to characterize this type of competition, explore rates and causes of death, and identify the associated risk factors. The aim was to characterize the Raid Hipico Uruguayo (RHU) competencies according to the distance (short (SR, 60 km) vs. long (LR, 80–115 km)), the causes of deaths, and the associated risk factors. The study population comprised horses (n = 16,856) that participated in RHU rides from 2007 to 2018. LR were more frequent than SR (p < 0.001). The average speed of winners was higher in SR (32.12 km/h) than in LR (28.14 km/h) (p < 0.001). There were 99 fatalities (5.9 per 1000 starts). SR had greater frequency of high comfort index (CI = Temp [°F] + Humidity [%]) than LR, and LR had greater frequency of low CI than SR (p < 0.001). The percentage of inexperienced horses and those who completed the ride was greater in SR than in LR (p < 0.001). In both types of rides, more horses died during than after the ride, and inexperienced horses were more likely to suffer fatalities than horses with prior experience in the sport (p < 0.05). SR were associated with increased risk of sudden death, while LR were associated with increased risk of death due to metabolic alterations. The high fatality index shown in this work warrants urgent investigation in this sport to minimize mortality associated with RHU-specific diseases.
Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies: Comparison of Enzyme Immunoassay, Surrogate Neutralization and Virus Neutralization Test
Authors: Vilibic-Cavlek Tatjana , Bogdanic Maja , Borko Ema , Hruskar Zeljka , Zilic Denis , Ferenc Thomas , Tabain Irena , Barbic Ljubo , Vujica Ferenc Mateja , Ferencak Ivana , Stevanovic Vladimir
Published: May 2023

Background: Since sensitivity and specificity vary widely between tests, SARS-CoV-2 serology results should be interpreted with caution. Methods: The study included serum samples from patients who had recovered from COVID-19 (n = 71), individuals vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2 (n = 84), and asymptomatic individuals (n = 33). All samples were tested for the presence of binding antibodies (enzyme immunoassay; EIA), neutralizing (NT) antibodies (virus neutralization test; VNT), and surrogate NT (sNT) antibodies (surrogate virus neutralization test; sVNT) of SARS-CoV-2. Results: SARS-CoV-2-binding antibodies were detected in 71 (100%) COVID-19 patients, 77 (91.6%) vaccinated individuals, and 4 (12.1%) control subjects. Among EIA-positive samples, VNT was positive (titer ≥ 8) in 100% of COVID-19 patients and 63 (75.0%) of the vaccinated individuals, while sVNT was positive (>30% inhibition) in 62 (87.3%) patients and 59 (70.2%) vaccinated individuals. The analysis of antibody levels showed a significant moderate positive correlation between EIA and VNT, a moderate positive correlation between EIA and sVNT, and a strong positive correlation between VNT and sVNT. The proportion of positive sVNT detection rate was associated with VNT titer. The lowest positivity (72.4%/70.8%) was detected in samples with low NT titers (8/16) and increased progressively from 88.2% in samples with titer 32 to 100% in samples with titer 256. Conclusions: sVNT appeared to be a reliable method for the assessment COVID-19 serology in patients with high antibody levels, while false-negative results were frequently observed in patients with low NT titers.
Heme: The Lord of the Iron Ring
Authors: Voltarelli Vanessa Azevedo , Alves de Souza Rodrigo W. , Miyauchi Kenji , Hauser Carl J. , Otterbein Leo Edmond
Published: May 2023

Heme is an iron-protoporphyrin complex with an essential physiologic function for all cells, especially for those in which heme is a key prosthetic group of proteins such as hemoglobin, myoglobin, and cytochromes of the mitochondria. However, it is also known that heme can participate in pro-oxidant and pro-inflammatory responses, leading to cytotoxicity in various tissues and organs such as the kidney, brain, heart, liver, and in immune cells. Indeed, heme, released as a result of tissue damage, can stimulate local and remote inflammatory reactions. These can initiate innate immune responses that, if left uncontrolled, can compound primary injuries and promote organ failure. In contrast, a cadre of heme receptors are arrayed on the plasma membrane that is designed either for heme import into the cell, or for the purpose of activating specific signaling pathways. Thus, free heme can serve either as a deleterious molecule, or one that can traffic and initiate highly specific cellular responses that are teleologically important for survival. Herein, we review heme metabolism and signaling pathways, including heme synthesis, degradation, and scavenging. We will focus on trauma and inflammatory diseases, including traumatic brain injury, trauma-related sepsis, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases where current work suggests that heme may be most important.
Globin Associated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Reeder Brandon J.
Published: May 2023

Globins have been studied for their “pseudo-peroxidase” activity for over 70 years, being an ideal model of other kinetically more rapid metalloenzymes [...]
Up-Regulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 Antioxidant Pathway in Macrophages by an Extract from a New Halophilic Archaea Isolated in Odiel Saltworks
Authors: Ávila-Román Javier , Gómez-Villegas Patricia , de Carvalho Carla C. C. R. , Vigara Javier , Motilva Virginia , León Rosa , Talero Elena
Published: May 2023

The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an important role in the progression of many inflammatory diseases. The search for antioxidants with the ability for scavenging free radicals from the body cells that reduce oxidative damage is essential to prevent and treat these pathologies. Haloarchaea are extremely halophilic microorganisms that inhabit hypersaline environments, such as saltworks or salt lakes, where they have to tolerate high salinity, and elevated ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiations. To cope with these extreme conditions, haloarchaea have developed singular mechanisms to maintain an osmotic balance with the medium, and are endowed with unique compounds, not found in other species, with bioactive properties that have not been fully explored. This study aims to assess the potential of haloarchaea as a new source of natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. A carotenoid-producing haloarchaea was isolated from Odiel Saltworks (OS) and identified on the basis of its 16S rRNA coding gene sequence as a new strain belonging to the genus Haloarcula. The Haloarcula sp. OS acetone extract (HAE) obtained from the biomass contained bacterioruberin and mainly C18 fatty acids, and showed potent antioxidant capacity using ABTS assay. This study further demonstrates, for the first time, that pretreatment with HAE of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages results in a reduction in ROS production, a decrease in the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 levels, and up-regulation of the factor Nrf2 and its target gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), supporting the potential of the HAE as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of oxidative stress-related inflammatory diseases.
Signature Split Method for a PQC-DSA Compliant with V2V Communication Standards
Authors: Kim Youngbeom , Seo Seog Chung
Published: May 2023

The development of quantum computing systems poses a great threat to the security of existing public key-based systems. As a result, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) started a Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) standardization project in 2015, and currently active research is being conducted to apply PQC to various cryptographic protocols. Unlike elliptic curve cryptography (ECC)-based schemes, PQC requires a large memory footprint and key/signature size. Therefore, when migrating PQC to a protocol, depending on the PQC and protocol specifications, it can be hard to migrate PQC. In the case of the WAVE protocol, it is difficult to satisfy the accuracy of a specific PQC algorithm because segmentation of the signature occurs during transmission due to the limitation of the maximum packet size. Therefore, in this paper, we present two methodologies that can apply PQC while complying with IEEE 1609.2 standards to the WAVE protocol in the V2V environment. Whereas previous migration studies have focused on designing a hybrid mode of protocols, this paper explores solutions more intuitively at the application layer of protocols. We analyzed two postquantum digital signature algorithms (Crystals-Dilithium and Falcon) and the structure of basic-safety messages (BSMs) of the V2V protocol on the size side. Through this, we propose methods that can perform an independent signature verification process without waiting for all divided signatures in the WAVE protocol. Our methodology overcomes the limitation that schemes with large signature sizes cannot be mounted into the WAVE protocol. We also note that the architecture used as an on-board unit (OBU) in an autonomous driving environment is mainly a microprocessor. We investigated an optimized PQC implementation in the OBU environment and simulated our methodology with the V2Verifier. Finally, we measured the accurate latency through simulation in Jetson Xavier, which is mainly used as an OBU in the V2V communication network.
Exploring the Impact of AI-Based Cyber Security Financial Sector Management
Authors: Mishra Shailendra
Published: May 2023

Cyber threats are attempts to secure unauthorized access to, change, or delete private information, to demand money from victims, or to disrupt business. Cybercrime includes everything from identity theft, malware threats, email and online fraud, to bank fraud. Businesses and individuals use this method to guard their data centers and other digital systems. The lack of scalability, sluggish response times, and inability to spot advanced and insider threats are among some of the problems with conventional approaches to network security. These flaws highlight the need for research to build more efficient and all-encompassing security methods to guard against the expanding variety of network attacks. Cybercriminals use AI and data poisoning, as well as model theft strategies to automate their attacks. A cyber security technique based on artificial intelligence is presented in this study for financial sector management (CS-FSM). In order to map and prevent unexpected risks from devouring a business, artificial intelligence is one of the best technologies. Using the proposed technique, cyberattack problems can be classified and solved. To ensure the security of financial sector information, algorithms such as the Enhanced Encryption Standard (EES) encrypt and decrypt data. By learning from the training data, the K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) algorithm produces predictions. In the financial sector, it is used to detect and stop malware attacks. The proposed method increases cyber security systems’ performance by increasing their defense against cyberattacks. CS-FSM enhances data privacy (18.3%), scalability (17.2%), risk reduction (13.2%), data protection (16.2%), and attack avoidance (11.2%) ratios.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning Design for Virtual Synchronous Generators Accommodating Modular Multilevel Converters
Authors: Yang Mu , Wu Xiaojie , Loveth Maxwell Chiemeka
Published: May 2023

The deep reinforcement learning (DRL) technique has gained attention for its potential in designing “virtual network” controllers. This skill utilizes a novel solution that can avoid the specific parameters and system model required in classical dynamic programming algorithms. However, addressing the issue of system uncertainties and performance deterioration remains a challenge. To overcome this challenge, the authors propose a new control prototype using a twin delayed deep deterministic policy gradient (TD3)-based adaptive controller, which replaces the conventional virtual synchronous generator (VSG) module in the modular multilevel converter (MMC) control. In this approach, an adaptive programming module is developed using a critic fuzzy network point of view to determine the optimal control policy. The modification presented in this framework is able to improve the system stability and resist disruptions while retaining the merits of the conventional VSG control model. The proposed approach is implemented and tested using the DRL toolbox in MATLAB/Simulink.
Modeling and Simulation in Multibond Graphs Applied to Three-Phase Electrical Systems
Authors: Gonzalez-Avalos Gilberto , Barrera Gallegos Noe , Ayala-Jaimes Gerardo , Padilla Garcia Aaron
Published: May 2023

The modeling of three-phase electrical systems in the coordinates d,q,0 in a simple and direct way in a multibond graph approach is presented. From the graphical model obtained, a mathematical model in state space can be determined. Thus, studies of the electromagnetic transients of electrical systems can be analyzed. Likewise, this modeling in the physical domain can be applied to balanced or unbalanced systems and the storage elements (inductances and capacitances) can be connected to be linearly independent or dependent. Structural properties such as stability, controllability, observability or controller design can be analyzed in multibond graphs. The proposed methodology is applied to two examples and the simulation results are shown using 20-Sim software.
Why Is Multiple Sclerosis More Frequent in Women? Role of the Immune System and of Oral and Gut Microbiota
Authors: D’Anca Marianna , Buccellato Francesca R. , Tartaglia Gianluca Martino , Del Fabbro Massimo , Muti Paola , Scarpini Elio , Galimberti Daniela , Ghezzi Laura
Published: May 2023

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most prevalent demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with an autoimmune component affecting young adults in their third decade of life. The etiology is still undefined, but myelin damage is mainly due to an aberrant immune response of lymphocyte cells against myelin components. Therefore, inflammation, demyelination, and axonal degeneration represent the major pathologic hallmarks of the disease. There are many risk factors associated with MS, and probably the most relevant is gender-related. Women are up to four times more affected than men are. Although the female prevalence in MS is epidemiologically evident, the identification of key factors involved in this difference is under investigation. On the other side, if women are more affected, men show late onset and worse prognosis. This sexual dimorphism derives from many sources, including sex hormones, different genes on female sex chromosomes, and differences in bacterial species. Indeed, accumulating evidence proves a link among MS and gut microbiota where its dysbiosis could help the immune system to trigger neuroinflammation. In this context, oral biology alteration should be considered, too. This work is intended to explore current knowledge inside MS gender differences with a look towards oral–gut–brain axis involvement.
Detection of Helmet Use in Motorcycle Drivers Using Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Mercado Reyna Jaime , Luna-Garcia Huizilopoztli , Espino-Salinas Carlos H. , Celaya-Padilla José M. , Gamboa-Rosales Hamurabi , Galván-Tejada Jorge I. , Galván-Tejada Carlos E. , Solís Robles Roberto , Rondon David , Villalba-Condori Klinge Orlando
Published: May 2023

The lack of helmet use in motorcyclists is one of the main risk factors with severe consequences in traffic accidents. Wearing a certified motorcycle helmet can reduce the risk of head injuries by 69% and fatalities by 42%. At present there are systems that detect the use of the helmet in a very precise way, however they are not robust enough to guarantee a safe journey, that is why is proposed an intelligent model for detecting the helmet in real time using training images of a camera mounted on the motorcycle, and convolutional neural networks that allow constant monitoring of the region of interest to identify the use of the helmet. As a result, a model was obtained capable of identifying when the helmet is used or not in an objective and constant manner while the user is making a journey, with a performance of 97.24%. Thus, it was possible to conclude that this new safety perspective provides a first approach to the generation of new preventive systems that help reduce accident rates in these means of transport. As future work, it is proposed to improve the model with different images that may violate the helmet detection.
Optical and SAR Image Registration Based on the Phase Congruency Framework
Authors: Xie Zhihua , Zhang Weigang , Wang Lina , Zhou Jianyong , Li Zhiwei
Published: May 2023

The improved phase congruency (PC) algorithms have been successfully applied to optical and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image registration since they are insensitive to nonlinear radiometric and geometric differences. However, most of the algorithms are sensitive to large-scale differences and rotation differences between optical and SAR images. To tackle this, we propose a PC framework to register optical and SAR images. It is compatible with large-scale and rotation invariance. Firstly, a multi-scale Harris keypoint extraction method based on the maximum moment of PC (named PC-Harris) is proposed. The scale space is constructed by combining PC with the log-Gabor filter. Secondly, we propose a PC model to construct the feature descriptors. The orientation and amplitude responses are obtained based on the PC model. Meanwhile, the novel descriptor is constructed based on the polar coordinate system and thus can handle the scale and rotation differences between optical and SAR images. Finally, outliers are removed by the fast sample consensus (FSC). The experiments conducted on several optical and SAR images verify the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Simultaneous Use of Digital Technologies and Industrial Robots in Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Kovič Klemen , Ojsteršek Robert , Palčič Iztok
Published: May 2023

This paper presents the use of digital technologies and industrial robots in manufacturing firms. More importantly, we look at the relationship between the use of digital technologies and industrial robots within the Industry 4.0 concept. We also use a specific Industry 4.0 Readiness index to assess manufacturing firms’ Industry 4.0 readiness level and analyze the relationship between the achieved readiness level and the use of industrial robots. The research is based on data from 118 manufacturing firms from a European Manufacturing Survey. Based on statistical analysis, we present the results that show a significant correlation between the use of specific digital technologies and two types of industrial robots. Our study also points out that manufacturing firms with a higher Industry 4.0 readiness level tend to use industrial robots more frequently.
Superconducting Electronic–Photonic Platform for HEB-Based Terahertz Spectrometers
Authors: Shurakov Alexander , Belikov Ivan , Prikhodko Anatoliy , Ershova Margarita , Goltsman Gregory
Published: May 2023

Terahertz photonic integrated circuits are becoming popular in ultrafast on-chip signal generation and processing. They outperform assemblies of electronic devices making use of metallic waveguides in term of both fabrication complexity and system losses. In this study, we report on a nearly all-dielectric hot electron bolometer mixer compatible with the technology of integrated Si photonic crystals. The developed on-chip power distribution networks ensure input losses of 2.4 dB and far-field radiation patterns with a gain of 12.1 dB and a side lobe level below −11 dB. The mixer is designed for spectral measurements at 2.7 THz. It can be used either as a part of an on-chip spectrometer or as a standalone device.
Numerical Analysis of New Stainless-Steel Corrugated-Plate Reinforcement of Shield-Tunnel Segmental Joints Based on Virtual-Tracking-Element Technology
Authors: Ding Wenqi , Ma Chang , Guo Yingjie , Li Xiaoran , Li Shuobiao
Published: May 2023

Shield tunnels inevitably endure various forms of damage as their service times increase. Steel corrugated plates have been used extensively under multiple conditions and have proven effective in strengthening segmental joints, according to full-scale tests. A numerical model is proposed to probe the feasibility of using a new stainless-steel corrugated plate (SSCP) to reinforce shield-tunnel segments. A new method, called virtual-tracking-element technology, is employed to achieve the simulation of a realistic stress state of the segmental joint. Moreover, a segmental-joint-component analysis and a parametric study were conducted based on the numerical model. The results demonstrate that: (1) the virtual-tracking-element technology is a valid and efficient approach to the simulation of the secondary-stress state of segmental joints; (2) SSCP reinforcement is not fully utilized when the grade of segmental concrete is C50, and it has a wide safety margin for potential overload; (3) SSCP reinforcement performs well regardless of the burial depth, and reinforcement in advance is recommended.
Lightweight Omnidirectional Radiation Protection for a Photon-Counting Imaging System in Space Applications
Authors: Han Zhen-Wei , Song Ke-Fei , Liu Shi-Jie , Guo Quan-Feng , Ding Guang-Xing , He Ling-Ping , Li Cheng-Wei , Zhang Hong-Ji , Liu Yang , Chen Bo
Published: May 2023

Concerns about the impact of space radiation on spacecraft and their internal instruments have prompted the need for effective protection. However, excessive protection can increase the costs and difficulty of space launches, making it crucial to achieve better shielding protection of lighter weights. In real space orbits, we observed the interference of charged particles on photon-counting imaging detectors and plan to address this issue by adding a shielding ring to the side wall of the detector input terminal. Additionally, a local protection structure was proposed for electronics, where the outer edge was increased to enable particles to reach the same thickness as the shielding box within the PCB range. This approach resulted in an omnidirectional spatial shielding thickness that was nearly identical at any point on the PCB surface. Furthermore, we used the Monte Carlo method to calculate the energy loss of electrons and protons in materials such as aluminum (Al), tantalum (Ta), and high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Through this analysis, we determined the optimal mass ratio of Al, Ta, and HDPE to achieve the lowest ionization doses at an object’s location in the particle environment of the FY-3 satellite orbit. This protection strategy provides a useful design concept for photoelectric detection instruments with high sensitivity.
Anthocyanins and Total Phenolic Compounds from Pigment Extractions of Non-Native Species from the Umia River Basin: Eucalyptus globulus, Tradescantia fluminensis, and Arundo donax
Authors: Iglesias Antía , Cancela Ángeles , Álvarez Xana , Sánchez Ángel
Published: May 2023

Alien invasive species (AIS) and non-native species are a prominent and extended problem in a wide range of areas in Europe and around the world. Centered in the Umia’s riparian forest, in Galicia, we found at least three main AIS needing to be controlled and harvested to preserve the biodiversity of the area. Previous studies probed that leaves and bark of selected species—Tradescantia fluminensis, Arundo donax, and Eucalyptus globulus—have important antioxidant properties, suitable for use in pharmaceutical and industrial contexts. A comparison of four solid-liquid extraction methods—Soxhlet extraction, ultrasound assisted extraction, thermal agitator, and infusion—was conducted in order to define the most efficient method in correlation within antioxidant (anthocyanins and total phenols) extraction. Water was selected as solvent, providing a sustainable research background without implying any chemical additives. The best extraction yields were obtained with Soxhlet extraction for all raw matter, with best results for Tradescantia fluminensis (41.89%) and Eucalyptus globulus leaves (39.35%); followed by the ultrasonic assisted extraction method, with better yield performed with Eucalyptus leaves (27.07%). On the contrary, Tradescantia fluminensis showed better efficiency with thermal agitator (35.07% compared to 23.19% from ultrasound extraction). After extractions, identification and quantification of total phenolic compounds and anthocyanins were carried out using spectrophotometric determination and acid hydrolysis in butanol method. In general, the best extraction yield in correlation with higher antioxidant content was performed by thermal agitator method, and Eucalyptus globulus leaves were demonstrated to be the better anthocyanins (6.18 ± 0.82 mg CC/g) and total phenols containers (172.40 ± 44.53 mg GAE/g). Studies provided promising possibilities for the residues of the three non-native species analyzed, as a source of antioxidants, favoring circular economy systems, as well as taking care of biodiversity in affected environments.
Numerical Simulation and Optimization of the Airflow Field of a Forage Drum Mower
Authors: Wu Bei , Zuo Tianlin , Li Zhuo , Qian Huaiyuan , Huang Tianci , Xiang Yang
Published: May 2023

The repeated cutting of forage can cause grass breakage and affect the performance of the forage drum mower in harvesting forage. Also, it is worth paying attention to the effect of airflow around the cutter on the cutting and feeding processes. To explore the characteristics of the airflow field around the cutter and optimize the key parameters of the airflow, an analysis of the airflow field of the forage drum mower equipped with twisted blades, tilting discs, and guide plates was conducted through numerical simulation. Furthermore, an orthogonal experiment was carried out by using the numerical simulation model. According to the experimental results, the optimal velocity of the airflow for gathering, lifting, and feeding was reached when the disc speed was 2000 r/min, the blade twist angle was 8°, the disc tilt angle was 4°, and the number of guide plates was 2. On this basis, a prediction model of airflow parameters was constructed, and the parameters of airflow around the cutter were measured on a test bench. According to the measurement results, the results of prediction by the model were consistent with the simulation results. Also, compared with the data of airflow measurement, the average error of the model prediction value was −5.83% for the velocity of the gathering airflow, 2.37% for the velocity of the lifting airflow, and 4.20% for the velocity of the feeding airflow, which demonstrates the reliability of the simulation results and prediction model. The results of this research provide a practical reference for the optimal design of the forage drum mower.
Research and Implementation of CPS for Transmission Front Middle Case Assembly Line
Authors: Zhang Dianping , Cao Xianfeng , Jin Zengzhi , Zhang Yahui , Hu Xiaofeng , Wu Chuanxun
Published: May 2023

As an indispensable part of the automobile factory transmission system, the transmission assembly line has a high level of automation and can play as a pioneer in the digital transformation of production. However, for the transmission production process, especially the front and middle case, there are many problems, such as a low degree of informatization, low efficiency of information transmission, and lack of a platform for rapid information release and sharing. This leads to the difficulty of timely discovery and feedback of exceptional events, resulting in low assembly efficiency. Therefore, this paper constructs its cyber–physical system (CPS) with the help of the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, such as physical identification, information collection, and transmission. It contributes to improving the intelligent level of transmission of front and middle case assembly, strengthening the close integration, interaction, and collaboration between a large amount of assembly data and the physical entity of the assembly process, realizing the real-time monitoring of the transmission front and middle case assembly process, timely discovering, provide feedback, and dealing with exceptional events. In addition, scientific and effective adjustment strategies based on the data can be provided. Ultimately, the assembly efficiency of the transmission front and middle case is improved, ensuring the stability of the assembly line.
Research Progresses and Application of Biofuel Cells Based on Immobilized Enzymes
Authors: Zhou Jian , Liu Chang , Yu Hao , Tang Ningli , Lei Chenghong
Published: May 2023

Enzymatic biofuel cells (EBFCs) are devices that use natural enzymes as catalysts to convert chemical energy from bio-sourced fuels into electrical energy. In this review, we summarize recent research progress and applications in the field of biofuel cells based on immobilized enzymes. Specifically, we discuss how to optimize and improve the electrochemical performance and operational stability of enzymatic biofuel cells through enzyme immobilization materials, enzyme immobilization methods, electron transfer improvement on enzyme electrodes, and cell construction methods. We also cover current and future practical applications of biofuel cells based on immobilized enzymes, including implantable enzymatic biofuel cells and wearable enzymatic biofuel cells. Additionally, we present some of the issues that still need to be addressed in the field of biofuel cells based on immobilized enzymes to ensure their technical and commercial viability and sustainability.
Response Prediction for Linear and Nonlinear Structures Based on Data-Driven Deep Learning
Authors: Liao Yangyang , Tang Hesheng , Li Rongshuai , Ran Lingxiao , Xie Liyu
Published: May 2023

Dynamic analysis of structures is very important for structural design and health monitoring. Conventional numerical or experimental methods often suffer from the great challenges of analyzing the responses of linear and nonlinear structures, such as high cost, poor accuracy, and low efficiency. In this study, the recurrent neural network (RNN) and long short-term memory (LSTM) models were used to predict the responses of structures with or without nonlinear components. The time series k-means (TSkmeans) algorithm was used to divide label data into different clusters to enhance the generalization of the models. The models were trained with different cluster acceleration records and the corresponding structural responses obtained by numerical methods, and then predicted the responses of nonlinear and linear structures under different seismic waves. The results showed that the two deep learning models had a good ability to predict the time history response of a linear system. The RNN and LSTM models could roughly predict the response trend of nonlinear structures, but the RNN model could not reproduce the response details of nonlinear structures (high-frequency characteristics and peak values).
Management of Intracranial Hemorrhage in the Setting of Mechanical Heart Valve Replacement Therapy
Authors: Khan Sahar , Syed Faiz , Toma Milan
Published: May 2023

The management of an intracranial hemorrhage in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy presents a significant challenge for medical professionals. Anticoagulant treatment is intended to prevent blood clotting, but it can worsen active brain bleeds. Despite this risk, avoiding the prothrombotic state caused by mechanical heart valves remains crucial. Guidelines on managing this issue are currently lacking, prompting a review that delves into embryonic development and anatomical functions of heart valves, valve replacement therapy for diseased valves, and the need for anticoagulants. Ultimately, recent literature and cases inform discussion regarding how best to manage intracranial hemorrhages in patients with mechanical heart valves. The expectation is that this examination will offer valuable perspectives on the handling of intracranial bleeding among individuals with mechanical heart valves and stimulate additional investigations in this intricate domain, particularly through the lens of applied mechanics.
Spatiotemporal Assessment of Atmospheric Pollutants in Yancheng City, Eastern Coastal City of China
Authors: Wang Boni , Zhang Chunting , Huang Liang , Zhang Gu , Yuan Xinyi , Yao Ruan , Zhang Min
Published: May 2023

Atmospheric environmental pollution has become a critical issue in eastern coastal cities in China, so a broad understanding of its spatiotemporal characteristics is of importance to develop public policies. In this study, hourly data of ρ(PM2.5), ρ(PM10), ρ(NO2), ρ(SO2), ρ(O3) and φ(CO) of five different types of national air quality monitoring sites from 2016 to 2020 were analyzed, combined with the change of meteorological elements in the same period in Yancheng, which was a rapidly developed eastern coastal city in China. The results indicated that the pollutant concentrations except for ρ(O3) was low in summer and high in winter, decreasing year by year from 2016 to 2020. The proportion of moderately and heavily contaminated days in the whole year was decreasing from 80 days in 2016 to 52 days in 2020, and the days with good quality increased from 284 days in 2016 to 311 days in 2020. ρ(O3) was the highest in spring and the lowest in winter, increasing slightly year by year. The variation of ρ(PM2.5), ρ(PM10), ρ(NO2), ρ(SO2) and φ(CO) showed a double-peak type, reaching the peak value at 8:00–10:00 and 20:00–22:00, corresponding to the early and evening rush hours. ρ(PM2.5), ρ(PM10) and φ(CO) on the weekend were higher than on weekdays, while an insignificant difference of ρ(NO2), ρ(O3) and ρ(SO2) was found between weekdays and the weekend. Wind direction played a key role in the variation of pollutant concentration in the Yancheng urban area, and the correlation analysis indicated that ρ(PM2.5) and ρ(PM10) were highly correlated to wind direction. Temperature was positively correlated to ρ(O3), while air pressure was significantly negatively correlated to ρ(O3). Relative humidity was negatively correlated to ρ(PM2.5), ρ(PM10), ρ(NO2), ρ(SO2) and φ(CO), while air pressure was positively correlated with these pollutants.
A Twenty-Year Retrospective Analysis of Risk Assessment of Biomechanical Overload of the Upper Limbs in Multiple Occupational Settings: Comparison of Different Ergonomic Methods
Authors: Sala Emma , Cipriani Lorenzo , Bisioli Andrea , Paraggio Emilio , Tomasi Cesare , Apostoli Pietro , De Palma Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

Background: Several methods with which to assess the risk of biomechanical overload of the upper limb are described in the literature. Methods: We retrospectively analysed the results of the risk assessment of the biomechanical overload of the upper limb in multiple settings by comparing the application of the Washington State Standard, the threshold limit values (TLV) proposed by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), based on hand-activity levels (HAL) and normalised peak force (PF), the Occupational Repetitive Actions (OCRA) checklist, the Rapid Upper-Limb Assessment (RULA), and the Strain Index and Outil de Repérage et d’Evaluation des Gestes of INRS (Institut National de Recherche et de Sécurité). Results: Overall, 771 workstations were analysed for a total of 2509 risk assessments. The absence of risk demonstrated for the Washington CZCL, used as the screening method, was in good agreement with the other methods, with the sole exception of the OCRA CL, which showed at-risk conditions in a higher percentage of workstations. Differences in the assessment of the frequency of actions were observed among the methods, while their assessments of strength appeared to be more uniform. However, the greatest discrepancies were observed in the assessment of posture. Conclusions: The use of multiple assessment methods ensures a more adequate analysis of biomechanical risk, allowing researchers to investigate the factors and segments in which different methods show different specificities.
Quantifying Alternative Food Potential of Agricultural Residue in Rural Communities of Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ugwoke Blessing , Tieman Ross , Mill Aron , Denkenberger David , Pearce Joshua M.
Published: May 2023

African countries have been severely affected by food insecurity such that 54% of the population (73 million people) are acutely food insecure, in crisis or worse. Recent work has found technical potential for feeding humanity during global catastrophes using leaves as stop-gap alternative foods. To determine the potential for adopting agricultural residue (especially crop leaves) as food in food-insecure areas, this study provides a new methodology to quantify the calories available from agricultural residue as alternative foods at the community scale. A case study is performed on thirteen communities in Nigeria to compare national level values to those available in rural communities. Two residue utilization cases were considered, including a pessimistic and an optimistic case for human-edible calories gained. Here, we show that between 3.0 and 13.8 million Gcal are available in Nigeria per year from harvesting agricultural residue as alternative food. This is enough to feed between 3.9 and 18.1 million people per year, covering from 10 to 48% of Nigeria’s current estimated total food deficit.
Epidural and Intrathecal Drug Delivery in Rats and Mice for Experimental Research: Fundamental Concepts, Techniques, Precaution, and Application
Authors: Rahman Md. , Lee Ji , Kim Yong , Park Chul-Kyu
Published: May 2023

Epidural and intrathecal routes are the most effective drug administration methods for pain management in clinical and experimental medicine to achieve quick results, reduce required drug dosages, and overcome the adverse effects associated with the oral and parenteral routes. Beyond pain management with analgesics, the intrathecal route is more widely used for stem cell therapy, gene therapy, insulin delivery, protein therapy, and drug therapy with agonist, antagonist, or antibiotic drugs in experimental medicine. However, clear information regarding intrathecal and epidural drug delivery in rats and mice is lacking, despite differences from human medicine in terms of anatomical space and proximity to the route of entry. In this study, we discussed and compared the anatomical locations of the epidural and intrathecal spaces, cerebrospinal fluid volume, dorsal root ganglion, techniques and challenges of epidural and intrathecal injections, dosage and volume of drugs, needle and catheter sizes, and the purpose and applications of these two routes in different disease models in rats and mice. We also described intrathecal injection in relation to the dorsal root ganglion. The accumulated information about the epidural and intrathecal delivery routes could contribute to better safety, quality, and reliability in experimental research.
Animal Models for Heart Transplantation Focusing on the Pathological Conditions
Authors: Tseng Horng-Ta , Lin Yi-Wen , Huang Chun-Yao , Shih Chun-Ming , Tsai Yi-Ting , Liu Chen-Wei , Tsai Chien-Sung , Lin Feng-Yen
Published: May 2023

Cardiac transplant recipients face many complications due to transplant rejection. Scientists must conduct animal experiments to study disease onset mechanisms and develop countermeasures. Therefore, many animal models have been developed for research topics including immunopathology of graft rejection, immunosuppressive therapies, anastomotic techniques, and graft preservation techniques. Small experimental animals include rodents, rabbits, and guinea pigs. They have a high metabolic rate, high reproductive rate, small size for easy handling, and low cost. Additionally, they have genetically modified strains for pathological mechanisms research; however, there is a lacuna, as these research results rarely translate directly to clinical applications. Large animals, including canines, pigs, and non-human primates, have anatomical structures and physiological states that are similar to those of humans; therefore, they are often used to validate the results obtained from small animal studies and directly speculate on the feasibility of applying these results in clinical practice. Before 2023, PubMed Central® at the United States National Institute of Health’s National Library of Medicine was used for literature searches on the animal models for heart transplantation focusing on the pathological conditions. Unpublished reports and abstracts from conferences were excluded from this review article. We discussed the applications of small- and large-animal models in heart transplantation-related studies. This review article aimed to provide researchers with a complete understanding of animal models for heart transplantation by focusing on the pathological conditions created by each model.
The Effect of Support on Catalytic Performance of Ni-Doped Mo Carbide Catalysts in 2-Methylfuran Production
Authors: Smirnov Andrey , Shilov Ivan N. , Alekseeva Maria V. , Bulavchenko Olga A. , Saraev Andrey A. , Yakovlev Vadim A.
Published: May 2023

Ni-doped Mo carbide with Ni/Mo atomic ratio of 0.1 was supported on SiO2, Al2O3, and a porous carbon material (C), using a combination of gel combustion and impregnation methods. XRD, XPS, XANES, and EXAFS analyses indicated that the main active sites for the supported catalysts were metallic nickel and Mo carbides. The catalysts were evaluated in furfural hydrogenation to produce 2-methylfuran (2-MF) in a batch reactor at 150 °C under a hydrogen pressure of 6.0 MPa. The carbide materials supported on C showed the highest activity and selectivity towards 2-MF formation, with a yield of 61 mol.% after 3.5 h. Using furfuryl alcohol as the feedstock instead of furfural resulted in a high selectivity to 2-MF production. The carbon-supported sample was tested in a fixed-bed reactor at 160–260 °C with a pressure of 5.0 MPa in the hydrogenation of furfuryl alcohol, leading to the formation of up to 82 mol.% of 2-MF at 160–200 °C. The higher temperature (260 °C) resulted in the formation of C5 alcohols and hydrocarbons, while the hydrogenation of furfural at the same temperature led to 100 mol.% conversion, and up to an 86 mol.% yield of 2-MF.
CTCF and Its Multi-Partner Network for Chromatin Regulation
Authors: Del Moral-Morales Aylin , Salgado-Albarrán Marisol , Sánchez-Pérez Yesennia , Wenke Nina Kerstin , Baumbach Jan , Soto-Reyes Ernesto
Published: May 2023

Architectural proteins are essential epigenetic regulators that play a critical role in organizing chromatin and controlling gene expression. CTCF (CCCTC-binding factor) is a key architectural protein responsible for maintaining the intricate 3D structure of chromatin. Because of its multivalent properties and plasticity to bind various sequences, CTCF is similar to a Swiss knife for genome organization. Despite the importance of this protein, its mechanisms of action are not fully elucidated. It has been hypothesized that its versatility is achieved through interaction with multiple partners, forming a complex network that regulates chromatin folding within the nucleus. In this review, we delve into CTCF’s interactions with other molecules involved in epigenetic processes, particularly histone and DNA demethylases, as well as several long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are able to recruit CTCF. Our review highlights the importance of CTCF partners to shed light on chromatin regulation and pave the way for future exploration of the mechanisms that enable the finely-tuned role of CTCF as a master regulator of chromatin.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Impaired Antioxidant Responses in Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Derived from a Patient with RCBTB1-Associated Retinopathy
Authors: Huang Zhiqin , Zhang Dan , Chen Shang-Chih , Huang Di , Mackey David , Chen Fred K. , McLenachan Samuel
Published: May 2023

Mutations in the RCBTB1 gene cause inherited retinal disease; however, the pathogenic mechanisms associated with RCBTB1 deficiency remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the effect of RCBTB1 deficiency on mitochondria and oxidative stress responses in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells from control subjects and a patient with RCBTB1-associated retinopathy. Oxidative stress was induced with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP). RPE cells were characterized by immunostaining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), CellROX assay, MitoTracker assay, quantitative PCR and immunoprecipitation assay. Patient-derived RPE cells displayed abnormal mitochondrial ultrastructure and reduced MitoTracker fluorescence compared with controls. Patient RPE cells displayed increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and were more sensitive to tBHP-induced ROS generation than control RPE. Control RPE upregulated RCBTB1 and NFE2L2 expression in response to tBHP treatment; however, this response was highly attenuated in patient RPE. RCBTB1 was co-immunoprecipitated from control RPE protein lysates by antibodies for either UBE2E3 or CUL3. Together, these results demonstrate that RCBTB1 deficiency in patient-derived RPE cells is associated with mitochondrial damage, increased oxidative stress and an attenuated oxidative stress response.