bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Lateral Flow Test-System for the Immunoassay of Dibutyl Phthalate in Natural Waters
Authors: Berlina Anna N. , Ragozina Maria Y. , Komova Nadezhda S. , Serebrennikova Kseniya V. , Zherdev Anatoly V. , Dzantiev Boris B.
Published: November 2022

The use of a large amount of toxic synthetic materials leads to an increase in the pollution of environmental objects. Phthalates are compounds structurally related to esters of phthalic acid that are widely used in the manufacturing of synthetic packaging materials as plasticizers. Their danger is conditioned by leaching into the environment and penetrating into living organisms with negative consequences and effects on various organs and tissues. This work presents the first development of lateral flow immunoassay to detect dibutyl phthalate, one of the most common representatives of the phthalates group. To form a test zone, a hapten–protein conjugate was synthesized, and gold nanoparticles conjugated with antibodies to dibutyl phthalate were used as a detecting conjugate. The work includes the preparation of immunoreagents, selectivity investigation, and the study of the characteristics of the medium providing a reliable optical signal. Under the selected conditions for the analysis, the detection limit was 33.4 ng/mL, and the working range of the determined concentrations was from 42.4 to 1500 ng/mL. Time of the assay—15 min. The developed technique was successfully applied to detect dibutyl phthalate in natural waters with recovery rates from 75 to 115%.
The Impact of Sleep and Mental Health on Working Memory and Academic Performance: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Almarzouki Abeer F. , Mandili Rahaf L. , Salloom Joud , Kamal Lujain K. , Alharthi Omimah , Alharthi Samah , Khayyat Nusaiba , Baglagel Alaa M.
Published: November 2022

Sleep and mental health can affect cognition and academic performance. The present study aimed to investigate the relationships between sleep, mental health, working memory, and academic performance. We collected demographic data from university students during the non-academic summer period and the academic term. We also measured academic performance (GPA), sleep (PSQI), depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and disordered social media use (SMDS). Working memory was assessed by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). We assessed 83 students (42.2% male) with a mean age of 21 years. Compared to the non-academic summer period, students had significantly worse sleep and distress scores in the academic term. Anxiety, depression, and distress scores were significantly correlated with worse sleep quality. Despite worse mental health and sleep in the academic term, working memory improved compared to the non-academic summer period and was also correlated with a higher GPA. However, a higher GPA was significantly associated with longer sleep latency, increased sleep disturbances, and increased use of sleep medication. Students experiencing poor sleep suffered from poor mental health, although they maintained high GPA and working memory scores. Cognitive resilience, including higher working memory, may mask poor sleep quality and mental health among university students.
Targeting mTOR as a Cancer Therapy: Recent Advances in Natural Bioactive Compounds and Immunotherapy
Authors: Bouyahya Abdelhakim , El Allam Aicha , Aboulaghras Sara , Bakrim Saad , El Menyiy Naoual , Alshahrani Mohammed Merae , Al Awadh Ahmed Abdullah , Benali Taoufiq , Lee Learn-Han , El Omari Nasreddine , Goh Khang Wen , Ming Long Chiau , Mubarak Mohammad S.
Published: November 2022

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a highly conserved serine/threonine-protein kinase, which regulates many biological processes related to metabolism, cancer, immune function, and aging. It is an essential protein kinase that belongs to the phosphoinositide-3-kinase (PI3K) family and has two known signaling complexes, mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2). Even though mTOR signaling plays a critical role in promoting mitochondria-related protein synthesis, suppressing the catabolic process of autophagy, contributing to lipid metabolism, engaging in ribosome formation, and acting as a critical regulator of mRNA translation, it remains one of the significant signaling systems involved in the tumor process, particularly in apoptosis, cell cycle, and cancer cell proliferation. Therefore, the mTOR signaling system could be suggested as a cancer biomarker, and its targeting is important in anti-tumor therapy research. Indeed, its dysregulation is involved in different types of cancers such as colon, neck, cervical, head, lung, breast, reproductive, and bone cancers, as well as nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Moreover, recent investigations showed that targeting mTOR could be considered as cancer therapy. Accordingly, this review presents an overview of recent developments associated with the mTOR signaling pathway and its molecular involvement in various human cancer types. It also summarizes the research progress of different mTOR inhibitors, including natural and synthetised compounds and their main mechanisms, as well as the rational combinations with immunotherapies.
Bevacizumab beyond Progression for Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma (BIOMARK): Phase II Safety, Efficacy and Biomarker Study
Authors: Nagane Motoo , Ichimura Koichi , Onuki Ritsuko , Narushima Daichi , Honda-Kitahara Mai , Satomi Kaishi , Tomiyama Arata , Arai Yasuhito , Shibata Tatsuhiro , Narita Yoshitaka , Uzuka Takeo , Nakamura Hideo , Nakada Mitsutoshi , Arakawa Yoshiki , Ohnishi Takanori , Mukasa Akitake , Tanaka Shota , Wakabayashi Toshihiko , Aoki Tomokazu , Aoki Shigeki , Shibui Soichiro , Matsutani Masao , Ishizawa Keisuke , Yokoo Hideaki , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Morita Satoshi , Kato Mamoru , Nishikawa Ryo
Published: November 2022

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of bevacizumab beyond progression (BBP) in Japanese patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma and explored predictors of response to bevacizumab. This phase II study evaluated a protocol-defined primary therapy by radiotherapy with concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide plus bevacizumab, followed by bevacizumab monotherapy, and secondary therapy (BBP: bevacizumab upon progression). Ninety patients received the protocol-defined primary therapy (BBP group, n = 25). Median overall survival (mOS) and median progression-free survival (mPFS) were 25.0 and 14.9 months, respectively. In the BBP group, in which O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT)-unmethylated tumors predominated, mOS and mPFS were 5.8 and 1.9 months from BBP initiation and 16.8 and 11.4 months from the initial diagnosis, respectively. The primary endpoint, the 2-year survival rate of the BBP group, was 27.0% and was unmet. No unexpected adverse events occurred. Expression profiling using RNA sequencing identified that Cluster 2, which was enriched with the genes involved in macrophage or microglia activation, was associated with longer OS and PFS independent of the MGMT methylation status. Cluster 2 was identified as a significantly favorable independent predictor for PFS, along with younger age and methylated MGMT. The novel expression classifier may predict the prognosis of glioblastoma patients treated with bevacizumab.
Comparison of Surgical Resection and Percutaneous Ultrasonographic Guided Radiofrequency Ablation for Initial Recurrence of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Early Stage following Curative Treatment
Authors: Ohama Hideko , Hiraoka Atsushi , Tada Fujimasa , Kato Kanako , Fukunishi Yoshiko , Yanagihara Emi , Kato Masaya , Saneto Hironobu , Izumoto Hirofumi , Ueki Hidetaro , Yoshino Takeaki , Kitahata Shogo , Kawamura Tomoe , Kuroda Taira , Suga Yoshifumi , Miyata Hideki , Hirooka Masashi , Abe Masanori , Matsuura Bunzo , Ninomiya Tomoyuki , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: November 2022

Background/Aim: The SURF trial showed that surgical resection (SR) and percutaneous ultrasonographic guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) had equal therapeutic effects for small hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, consensus regarding which treatment is appropriate for initial recurrent early-stage HCC remains lacking. This study aimed to elucidate therapeutic efficacy differences between SR and RFA for initial recurrent early-stage HCC. Materials/Methods: From 2000 to 2021, 371 patients with recurrent early-stage HCC (≤3 cm, ≤3 nodules) after undergoing initial curative treatment with SR or RFA were enrolled (median age 72 years; males 269; Child–Pugh A:B, n = 328:43; SR:RFA, n = 36:335). Recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were retrospectively evaluated. Results: Although the median albumin–bilirubin (ALBI) score was better in the SR than the RFA group (−2.90 vs. −2.50, p < 0.01), there were no significant differences between them in regard to RFS (median 28.1 months, 95% CI 23.4–50.0 vs. 22.1 months, 95% CI 19.3–26.2; p = 0.34), OS (78.9 months, 95% CI 49.3—not applicable vs. 71.2 months 95% CI, 61.8–84.7; p = 0.337), or complications (8.3% vs. 9.3%; p = 1.0). In sub-analysis for RFS and OS according to ALBI grade revealed no significant differences between the SR and RFA groups (ALBI 1/2 = 28.2/17.5 vs. 24.0/23.4 months; p = 0.881/0684 and ALBI 1/2 = 78.9/58.9 vs. 115.3/52.6 months, p = 0.651/0.578, respectively). Conclusion: This retrospective study found no significant differences in regard to RFS or OS between patients in the SR and the RFA groups for initial recurrence of early-stage HCC after undergoing curative treatment. These results showing equal therapeutic efficacy of SR and RFA confirm the findings of the SURF trial.
Sarcopenia as a Prognostic Marker in Elderly Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Undergoing (Chemo-)Radiation
Authors: Haehl Erik , Alvino Luisa , Rühle Alexander , Zou Jiadai , Fabian Alexander , Grosu Anca-Ligia , Nicolay Nils H.
Published: November 2022

Sarcopenia is associated with reduced survival and increased toxicity in malignant diseases. The prevalence of sarcopenia increases with age and is an important cause of functional decline. We analyzed sarcopenia and sarcopenia dynamics in elderly head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients undergoing (chemo)radiation. Skeletal muscle mass of 280 elderly HNSCC-patients (>65 yrs) receiving curative (chemo)radiation was manually outlined and quantified on CT scans at the level of the C3 (C3MA). Cross-sectional muscle area at L3 (L3MA) was calculated and normalized to height (L3MI). Frequency distributions of clinical parameters as well as overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and locoregional control (LRC) were calculated regarding sarcopenia. Calculated L3MA correlated with pretherapeutic hemoglobin-levels (ρ = 0.280) bodyweight (ρ = 0.702) and inversely with patient-age (ρ = −0.290). Sarcopenic patients featured larger tumors (T3/4 69.0% vs. 52.8%, p < 0.001), a higher burden of comorbidity (age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index 4.8 vs. 4.2, p = 0.015) and more severe chronic toxicities (CTCAE grade 3/4 24.0% vs. 11.8%, p = 0.022). OS was significantly deteriorated in sarcopenic patients with a median of 23 vs. 91 months (logrank p = 0.002) (HR 1.79, CI 1.22–2.60, p = 0.003) and sarcopenia remained an independent prognostic factor for reduced OS in the multivariate analysis (HR 1.64, CI 1.07–2.52, p = 0.023). After therapy, 33% of previously non-sarcopenic patients developed sarcopenia, while 97% of pre-treatment sarcopenic remained sarcopenic. Median bodyweight decreased by 6.8%, whereas median calculated L3MA decreased by 2.4%. In contrast to pretherapeutic, post-therapeutic sarcopenia is no prognosticator for reduced OS. Pretherapeutic sarcopenia is a significant prognostic factor in elderly HNSCC patients undergoing (chemo-)radiation and should be considered in pretherapeutic decision-making. Its role as a predictive marker for tailored supportive interventions merits further prospective evaluation.
Gas Sensors Based on Exfoliated g-C3N4 for CO2 Detection
Authors: Kotbi Ahmed , Benyoussef Manal , Ressami El Mostafa , Lejeune Michael , Lakssir Brahim , Jouiad Mustapha
Published: November 2022

We report on the investigation of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) for carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor applications. g-C3N4 is prepared by the thermal polycondensation of thiourea and sprayed onto a substrate with interdigitated electrodes. The resulting sensor device exhibited a high sensitivity to CO2 molecules of ~200 ppm, a high responsivity of ~730 ms at 40 °C and a full recovery time of 36 s. Furthermore, a set of various characterization measurements demonstrated the excellent stability of both the g-C3N4 nanosheets and the fabricated gas sensor device. Meanwhile, density functional theory (DFT) calculations for the bulk and monolayer models, based on tri-s-triazine, revealed the optoelectronic properties of g-C3N4 and the interaction energy with CO2, which is evaluated at −0.59 eV. This value indicates the very good affinity of g-C3N4 nanosheets to CO2 molecules. Our findings shed light on the potential for g-C3N4 to be used for the development of high-performing gas sensor devices.
Overweight Prevalence among Rural Adolescents by Household Head Obesity and Socio-Economic Status in Limpopo, South Africa
Authors: Mphekgwana Peter M. , Mbombi Masenyani O. , Muthelo Livhuwani , Tlouyamma Joseph , Nemuramba Rathani , Ntimana Cairo , Mothapo Katlego , Dhau Inos , Maimela Eric
Published: November 2022

Background: Childhood obesity has become the most important and growing public health problem in the world. They add to public health challenges by increasing the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases. However, in spite of its importance, there is limited literature that evaluates the prevalence of obesity among rural adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. We report the first study to present an insight into rural black overweight South African children and the physical characteristics and socio-economic status of the household head. A quantitative cross-sectional population study was conducted involving 51 selected primary villages within the DIMAMO surveillance area in the Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The study involved 294 adolescents, 154 girls and 140 boys, who were under the age of 18. Of these participants, 127 (43%) were within the normal weight range, and 167 (57%) were overweight. Gender made a significant difference, with more girls being overweight than boys. Adolescents who did not receive child grants and whose heads of household were 45–54 years old, poor, and overweight had a higher prevalence of obesity (p-value < 0.05). This study suggests that public health interventionists need to target both the heads of household and their children in hopes of reducing the prevalence of overweight and obese South African children. We further propose a better understanding of the causes of childhood overweight and obesity to guide policy development and implementation in rural settings.
Influence of Physical Fitness, Anthropometric Profile, and Biological Maturation on Technical Performance and Enjoyment of Untrained Children Who Participate in Continuous and Fractional Small-Sided Games
Authors: Gómez-Álvarez Nicolás , Costa Luengo Hernán , Alarcón Lamilla Leonardo , Barraza Álvarez Kamir , Salinas Valeria Espinoza , Olate-Pasten Yesenia , Godoy-Tapia Cristian , Pavez-Adasme Gustavo , Hermosilla-Palma Felipe
Published: November 2022

The objective is to determine the relationship between physical fitness, anthropometric measures, and biological maturation as they relate to technical performance in small-sided games (SSGs) of continuous and fractioned regimes. Methodology: A crossover-design study in which 12 children participated in two regimens of SSG (continuous and fractional). At the beginning of the study, all children were evaluated using physical fitness tests (horizontal jump test, vertical jump, cardiorespiratory fitness, and agility), anthropometric profile (weight, height, Body Mass Index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC)), and biological maturation (peak years of growth velocity). All sessions were recorded and analyzed with the Performance Assessment in Team Sports instrument, and at the end of each game each child was asked to answer a scale of enjoyment for physical activity. Results: The results of the paired samples t-test showed no significant differences in the measures of technical performance and perceived enjoyment for the continuous and fractional regimens of SSGs (p > 0.05). The correlation results showed that technical performance in the continuous and fractional regimes was related to agility, horizontal jump, and height, while biological maturation was only related to technical performance in the fractional regimen of SSGs. Perceived enjoyment showed a negative relationship with weight, height, BMI, and WC. Conclusion: The fractional and continuous regimens of SSGs implemented in this study induced similar technical demands and enjoyment. Furthermore, the results suggest that physical fitness, anthropometric profile, and biological maturation may influence the technical performance and enjoyment of SSGs.
A Pilot Feasibility Study of an Intensive Summer Day Camp Intervention for Children with Selective Mutism
Authors: Haggerty Danielle , Carlson John S. , Kotrba Aimee
Published: November 2022

Cost, scheduling, and implementation competency are barriers to accessing traditional evidence-based behavioral interventions for childhood selective mutism (SM). Brief, or intensive, interventions are a disruptive innovation to traditional therapy given the use of fewer sessions during a short-term time period. This study explored the acceptability, integrity, and effectiveness (i.e., single-case replicated AB design) of an intensive summer camp consisting of a 5-day behavioral therapy for 25 children with SM. Caregiver-rated treatment acceptability ratings and family interviews support intensive summer day camp as an acceptable intervention approach for SM. Additionally, results revealed that counselors and parents implemented SM behavioral therapy during camp with impressive integrity (>90%) after receiving training about SM behavioral therapy from an SM expert clinician. Effect size calculations of counselor-rated daily behavior ratings revealed reductions in anxiety during camp for 18 of the 25 campers. Significant caregiver-rated improvements in speaking behaviors were reported for 9 out of 14 campers with data available for analysis at the 3-month follow-up. This pilot feasibility study is the first to investigate intensive summer day camp as a treatment approach for SM and implications for future research are discussed.
Scaling Ethereum 2.0s Cross-Shard Transactions with Refined Data Structures
Authors: Kudzin Alexander , Toyoda Kentaroh , Takayama Satoshi , Ishigame Atsushi
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: To solve the blockchain scaling issue, sharding has been proposed; however, this approach has its own scaling issue: the cross-shard communication method. To resolve the cross-shard communication scaling issue, rollups have been proposed and are being investigated. However, they also have their own scaling limitations, in particular, the degree of compression they can apply to transactions (TXs) affecting how many TXs can be included in one block. (2) Methods: In this paper, we propose a series of novel data structures for the compiling of cross-shard TXs sent using rollups for both public and private Ethereum. Our proposal removes redundant fields, consolidates repeated fields, and compresses any remaining fields in the rollup, modifying its data structure to compress the address, gas, and value fields. (3) Results: We have shown that our proposals can accommodate more cross-shard TXs in a block by reducing the TX size by up to 65% and 97.6% compared to the state-of-the-art in public and private Ethereum, respectively. This compression in TX size results in an over 2× increase in transactions per block (TPB) for our proposals targeting both types of Ethereum. (4) Conclusions: Our proposals will mitigate the scaling issue in a sharded blockchain that utilizes rollups for cross-shard communication. In particular, it will enable such sharded Ethereum networks to be deployed for large-scale decentralized systems.
Preparation of Hydroxyapatite-Titanium Dioxide Composite from Eggshell by Hydrothermal Method: Characterization and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Noviyanti Atiek Rostika , Asyiah Efa Nur , Permana Muhamad Diki , Dwiyanti Dina , Suryana  , Eddy Diana Rakhmawaty
Published: November 2022

Hydroxyapatite (HA) has been widely used in biomedical applications. HA is prepared from natural sources of eggshell. The obtained HA is composited with TiO2 using the hydrothermal method at a temperature of 230 °C. The structure and morphology of HA-TiO2 composites are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Meanwhile, its antibacterial activity was tested on Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria. The formation of the HA-TiO2 composite is evidenced by typical peaks on the XRD pattern for HA and TiO2. The FTIR spectrum shows that no bond formed between TiO2 and HA which indicates the formation of composites. The smallest crystallite size and the highest specific surface area were obtained from the composite with the composition of HA-TiO2 30:70. In addition, the composition of the composite also shows the smallest particle size distribution. Therefore, the presence of TiO2 plays a significant role in determining the HA properties formed. Furthermore, the HA-TiO2 composite showed good antibacterial activity using disk diffusion and optical density (OD) methods. These results indicate that the synergistic combination of HA from eggshell with TiO2 has favorable properties for antibacterial activity.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Activities for Degradation of Dyes and Drugs by Crystalline Bismuth Ferrite-Modified Graphene Hybrid Aerogel
Authors: Zhao Yan , Xu Minghui , Ji Yuanpeng , Dong Yunfa , Xing Guangjian , Xia Pengfei , Li Xiaowei , He Weidong , Qiao Liang
Published: November 2022

Industrial wastewater contains diverse toxic dyes and drugs, which pollute the environment and poison creatures. Utilizing photocatalysts has been accepted to be an effective method to degrade water pollutions using solar light. Crystalline bismuth ferrite (Bi2Fe4O9) with a band gap of 1.9–2.0 eV is expected to be one of the most promising candidates for photocatalysts in the visible light region. Amorphous graphene is also a promising candidate as a photocatalyst owing to its excellent electronic and optical properties. Herein, a composite of Bi2Fe4O9/graphene aerogels (GAs) was prepared with a two-step hydrothermal method. The prepared Bi2Fe4O9 powders were confirmed to be successfully doped into GAs and evenly dispersed between graphene sheets. The Bi2Fe4O9/GA composite was utilized to perform photodegradation for organic dyes and antibiotic drugs under visible light irradiation, yielding efficiencies of 90.22%, 92.3%, 71.8% and 78.58% within 330 min for methyl orange, methylene blue, Rhodamine B and tetracycline hydrochloride, respectively. Such distinct photocatalytic activities overwhelmed the pure Bi2Fe4O9 powders of 14.10%, 22.19%, 13.98% and 48.08%, respectively. Additionally, the composite produced a degradation rate constant of 0.00623 min−1 for methylene blue, which is significantly faster than that of 0.00073 min−1 obtained by the pure powder. These results provide an innovative strategy for designing 3D visible-light-responsive photocatalysts combined with graphene aerogel for water purification.
CVD Elaboration of 3C-SiC on AlN/Si Heterostructures: Structural Trends and Evolution during Growth
Authors: Portail Marc , Frayssinet Eric , Michon Adrien , Rennesson Stéphanie , Semond Fabrice , Courville Aimeric , Zielinski Marcin , Comyn Remi , Nguyen Luan , Cordier Yvon , Vennéguès Philippe
Published: November 2022

(111)-oriented cubic polytypes of silicon carbide (3C-SiC) films were grown by chemical vapor deposition on 2H-AlN(0001)/Si(111) and 2H-AlN(0001)/Si(110) templates. The structural and electrical properties of the films were investigated. For film thicknesses below 300 nm, the 3C-SiC material deposited on 2H-AlN/Si presented a better structural quality than the 3C-SiC films grown directly on Si(111) using the well-established two-step carbonization–epitaxy process. The good lattice match of 3C-SiC with AlN may open a reliable route towards high-quality thin heteroepitaxial 3C-SiC films on a silicon wafer. Nevertheless, the 3C-SiC was featured by the presence of twinned domains and small inclusions of 6H-SiC. The formation of a thin AlSiN film at the AlN/Si interface is also reported. This is the first time such AlSiN layers are described within an AlN/Si heterostructure. Furthermore, noticeable modifications were observed in the AlN film. First, the growth process of SiC on AlN induced a reduction of the dislocation density in the AlN, attesting to the structural healing of AlN with thermal treatment, as already observed for other AlN-based heterostructures with higher-temperature processes. The growth of SiC on AlN also induced a dramatic reduction in the insulating character of the AlN, which could be related to a noticeable cross-doping between the materials.
Evaluation of the Piezoresistivity of a Thin Film of ZnO Doped with Fluorine and Deposited via the Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis Technique for Applications in Micro/Nano-Electromechanical Sensors
Authors: Petlacalco Ramírez Héctor Eduardo , Alcántara Iniesta Salvador , Soto Cruz Blanca Susana , Mejía Silva Jesús Israel
Published: November 2022

In this study, thin films of zinc oxide doped with fluorine ZnO: F were deposited via ultrasonic spray pyrolysis (USP) with an atomic ratio of [F/Zn] in a starting solution of 15 at.% on borosilicate glass coverslips and SiO2/Si substrates. The structure, electrical resistivity, and thickness were obtained via X-ray diffraction, the four-point technique, and profilometry, respectively. A ZnO: F piezoresistor was modeled at the fixed end of the cantilever through lithography and chemical etching. A SiO2/Si cantilever structure was used to evaluate the piezoresistivity of a ZnO: F thin film, and temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) measurements were performed in an electric furnace. The strain on the ZnO: F piezoresistor caused by the application of masses at the free end of the cantilever was determined using a theoretical equation, in addition to a simulation in the COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3a FEM (finite element method) software considering the dimensions and materials of the manufactured device. The ZnO: F thin films were hexagonal wurtzite (phase 002), with thicknesses in the range from 234 nm to 295 nm and with resistivities of the order of 10−2 Ω.cm. The ZnO: F thin-film piezoresistor showed a gauge factor (GF) of 12.7 and a TCR of −3.78 × 10−3 %/K up to 525 K, which are suitable properties for sensor development.
Intimate Partner Violence against Mastectomized Women: Victims’ Experiences
Authors: Leite Franciéle Marabotti Costa , Oliveira Andreia Gomes , Barbosa Bruna Lígia Ferreira de Almeida , Ambrosim Mariana Zoboli , Vasconcellos Neiva Augusta Viegas , Maciel Paulete Maria Ambrósio , Amorim Maria Helena Costa , Furieri Lorena Barros , Lopes-Júnior Luís Carlos
Published: November 2022

Exposure to situations of domestic violence during the treatment for breast cancer may compromise the treatment and quality of life of women patients, so it is essential that health professionals act in tracking this phenomenon in the approach to and care of women with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to examine experiences of violence against women by their intimate partners after mastectomy. This is an exploratory descriptive study, with a qualitative approach, carried out in the Rehabilitation Program for Mastectomized Women in a Brazilian reference hospital for oncological treatment. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 mastectomized women. For data analysis, a content analysis technique was performed. The women interviewed were predominantly brown, with a minimum age of 44 years and maximum of 72 years. They presented with low education, were married, and had a mean period of five years of breast cancer diagnosis. The participants reported that after mastectomy, they experienced episodes of violence at a time when they were extremely vulnerable due to the various cancer treatments. Three major thematic categories emerged from interview data across the data collection: (1) experiences of psychological violence, (2) experiences of physical violence, and (3) experiences of sexual violence. Psychological violence took the form of humiliation and contempt for their condition. Physical violence involved assault and sexual violence in the form of forced sex by coercion. Violence was a phenomenon present after mastectomy, practiced in the domestic environment by the intimate partner. We emphasize the importance of health professionals in screening for this issue by listening to and welcoming women, recording cases, exposing this situation, and contributing to prevention.
High-Resolution UAV RGB Imagery Dataset for Precision Agriculture and 3D Photogrammetric Reconstruction Captured over a Pistachio Orchard (Pistacia vera L.) in Spain
Authors: Vélez Sergio , Vacas Rubén , Martín Hugo , Ruano-Rosa David , Álvarez Sara
Published: November 2022

A total of 248 UAV RGB images were taken in the summer of 2021 over a representative pistachio orchard in Spain (X: 341450.3, Y: 4589731.8; ETRS89/UTM zone 30N). It is a 2.03 ha plot, planted in 2016 with Pistacia vera L. cv. Kerman grafted on UCB rootstock, with a NE–SW orientation and a 7 × 6 m triangular planting pattern. The ground was kept free of any weeds that could affect image processing. The photos (provided in JPG format) were taken using a UAV DJI Phantom Advance quadcopter in two flight missions: one planned to take nadir images (β = 0°), and another to take oblique images (β = 30°), both at 55 metres above the ground. The aerial platform incorporates a DJI FC6310 RGB camera with a 20 megapixel sensor, a horizontal field of view of 84° and a mechanical shutter. In addition, GCPs (ground control points) were collected. Finally, a high-quality 3D photogrammetric reconstruction process was carried out to generate a 3D point cloud (provided in LAS, LAZ, OBJ and PLY formats), a DEM (digital elevation model) and an orthomosaic (both in TIF format). The interest in using remote sensing in precision agriculture is growing, but the availability of reliable, ready-to-work, downloadable datasets is limited. Therefore, this dataset could be useful for precision agriculture researchers interested in photogrammetric reconstruction who want to evaluate models for orthomosaic and 3D point cloud generation from UAV missions with changing flight parameters, such as camera angle.
Three-State Opinion Model on Complex Topologies
Authors: Ferri Irene , Pérez-Vicente Conrad , Palassini Matteo , Díaz-Guilera Albert
Published: November 2022

We investigate opinion diffusion on complex networks and the interplay between the existence of neutral opinion states and non-trivial network structures. For this purpose, we apply a three-state opinion model based on magnetic-like interactions to modular complex networks, both synthetic and real networks extracted from Twitter. The model allows for tuning the contribution of neutral agents using a neutrality parameter. We also consider social agitation, encoded as a temperature, that accounts for random opinion changes that are beyond the agent neighborhood opinion state. Using this model, we study which topological features influence the formation of consensus, bipartidism, or fragmentation of opinions in three parties, and how the neutrality parameter and the temperature interplay with the network structure.
Effects of Quenching on Corrosion and Hardness of Aluminum Alloy 7075-T6
Authors: Saberi Leila , Alfred Samuel Onimpa , Amiri Mehdi
Published: November 2022

Quenching affects the mechanical and corrosion properties of precipitation-hardenable alloys such as aluminum alloy 7075-T6 (AA7075-T6). In this paper, the properties of as-quenched AA7075-T6 are predicted within the framework of quench factor analysis (QFA), using cooling curves obtained from a quench test. Theoretical and computational approaches are used to predict spatial and temporal variations of temperature. The temperature variations are used to predict the quench factor and consequently the material properties. A test is carried out on a block of AA7075-T6 quenched partly in water and partly in air followed by hardness measurements and electrochemical characterizations. The results show that the hardness and the corrosion potential of the quenched block decrease as the cooling rate decreases. The results further suggest the existence of a corrosion product layer for the water-quenched part of the sample. This was not observed for the air-cooled part. A new corrosion prediction model is developed by using the QFA method, cyclic polarization, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy test results. The present model may be used to potentially reduce the number of corrosion tests in evaluating corrosion properties of quenched AA7075-T6. Model predictions for corrosion and hardness are in good agreement with experimental results.
Biohydrogen Production in Microbial Electrolysis Cells Utilizing Organic Residue Feedstock: A Review
Authors: Jensen Line Schultz , Kaul Christian , Juncker Nilas Brinck , Thomsen Mette Hedegaard , Chaturvedi Tanmay
Published: November 2022

The need for renewable and sustainable fuel and energy storage sources is pressing. Biohydrogen has the potential to be a storable energy carrier, a direct fuel and a diverse building block for various downstream products. Utilizing microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) to produce biohydrogen from residue streams, such as the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW), agricultural residues and wastewater facilitate utilization and energy recovery from these streams, paving the path for a circular economy. The advantages of using hydrogen include high gravimetric energy density and, given the MEC pathway, the ability to capture heavy metals, ammonia and phosphates from waste streams, thereby allowing for multiple revenue streams emanating from MECs. A review of the MEC technology and its application was carried out to investigate the use of MEC in sustainable biohydrogen production. This review summarizes different MEC designs of varying scales, including anode materials, cathode materials, and configuration possibilities. This review highlights the accomplishments and challenges of small-scale to large-scale MECs. Suggestions for improving the successful upscaling of MECs are listed, thus emphasizing the areas for continued research.
A New Transformer-Less Single-Phase Photovoltaic Inverter to Improve the Performance of Grid-Connected Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Biswas Mohua , Biswas Shuvra Prokash , Islam Md. Rabiul , Rahman Md. Ashib , Muttaqi Kashem M. , Muyeen S. M.
Published: November 2022

Photovoltaic (PV) energy systems have found diverse applications in fulfilling the increasing energy demand worldwide. Transformer-less PV inverters convert the DC energy from PV systems to AC energy and deliver it to the grid through a non-isolated connection. This paper proposes a new transformer-less grid-connected PV inverter. A closed-loop control scheme is presented for the proposed transformer-less inverter to connect it with the power grid. The proposed transformer-less inverter reduces extra leakage current and holds the common-mode voltage at a constant point. To eliminate extra leakage current, as well as achieve constant common-mode voltage, a midpoint clamping method is utilized to operate the inverter. The proposed transformer-less inverter is formed of seven insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) employing a unipolar sinusoidal pulse width modulation (SPWM) technique for switching purposes. An LCL filter is employed to reshape the two-level inverter output voltage and current to obtain closer sinusoidal waveforms. The output voltage and current total harmonic distortion (THD) of the proposed transformer-less inverter were found to be 1.25% and 0.94%, respectively, in the grid-connected mode. The leakage current elimination mechanism with the proposed transformer-less inverter is deeply analyzed in this paper. The performances of the proposed transformer-less inverter were evaluated with MATLAB/Simulink simulation and validated in a laboratory scale experiment.
Selected Issues Associated with the Operational and Power Supply Reliability of Fire Alarm Systems
Authors: Klimczak Tomasz , Paś Jacek , Duer Stanisław , Rosiński Adam , Wetoszka Patryk , Białek Kamil , Mazur Michał
Published: November 2022

The article reviews issues associated with the use of electronic fire alarm systems (FAS). They are operated in various environments and buildings with varying volumes. FAS have to function properly under different operating conditions associated with their operation, as well as power supply and information inflow. Due to their functions, i.e., ensuring the safety of people, vehicles, logistics bases, airports, etc., FAS have to exhibit an appropriately organized reliability structure associated with their implementation and power supply. Operational studies involving FAS operated in various facilities were conducted to this end. The authors determined damage and recovery time intensities. FAS reliability indicators were also determined. The article presents graphs associated with developing the energy balance for selected FAS. The graphs are consistent with the latest and applicable legal regulations. The next stage of the work related to this article was developing an FAS operation process model and conducting computer simulations in order to determine reliability indicators. Such an approach to the FAS operation process enables a rational selection of technical and organizational solutions aimed at guaranteeing reliability in the course of executing operational tasks associated with ensuring fire safety. FAS operational analysis, developing balance graphs and models, as well as the computer simulation, enabled inferring conclusions that might be useful to the process of engineering and operating such systems.
Performance Analysis and Evaluation of Multiphase Split-Source Inverters
Authors: Dabour Sherif M. , Aboushady Ahmed A. , Gowaid I. A. , Elgenedy Mohamed. A. , Farrag Mohamed E.
Published: November 2022

Due to their many advantages over their counterparts, such as Z-source inverters (ZSIs), split-source inverters (SSIs) have recently received much attention as single-stage boost inverters. This paper discusses a multiphase version of the SSI topology for the first time. Among multiphase systems undergoing a revolution in the research area, five-phase motor drives are a relatively practical selection in industrial applications. Therefore, this paper focuses on a five-phase SSI as an example. The topology, operating principles, modulation techniques, and performance analysis of the analyzed topology are introduced. A modified space-vector modulation (MSVM) scheme is developed to eliminate low-frequency ripples in the input current. There is also a detailed analysis and graphical evaluation of the output currents ripples using the space-vector approach. It is evident that multiphase SSI is suitable for motor drives, especially when a high-output voltage gain is required. In addition to having a nearly identical ripple in output current to a conventional VSI, it has the benefit of performing the boosting action in a single stage with fewer passive components and a low ripple in input current. Finally, the simulation and experimental results have been conducted to demonstrate the viability of the multiphase SSI studied in the theoretical study and analysis.
Intermediate Pyrolysis of Bambara Groundnut Shell (BGS) in Various Inert Gases (N2, CO2, and N2/CO2)
Authors: Ibrahim Mustapha Danladi , Abakr Yousif Abdalla , Gan Suyin , Lee Lai Yee , Thangalazhy-Gopakumar Suchithra
Published: November 2022

Energy from biomass is increasingly gaining attention amidst the environmental challenges of coal and fossil fuels. This study investigated the effects of inert gases (N2, CO2, and N2/CO2) on intermediate pyrolysis and product properties from Bambara Groundnut Shells (BGS) (shells from an underutilized crop, which has high nutritional values). N2/CO2 atmosphere roughly represents flue gas. The results showed that the inert gases did not significantly affect the yields of bio-oil, biochar, and syngas. The pH of bio-oil ranged from 5.2–5.8, indicating the minimum presence of acids in bio-oil. The CHNS analysis showed that all bio-oil and biochar had their carbon content within 50.04–60.49 wt.%. The FESEM resulted in a wide range of pore sizes in biochar produced in an N2/CO2 atmosphere. The GC-MS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry) analysis revealed the presence of compounds which can be categorized as alkene, acid, benzene derivatives, ketone, phenol derivatives, alcohol, aldehyde, alkyl, and ester. However, the presence of N2/CO2 gas favored alcohol and phenol production significantly.
Enhanced Heat Transfer Using Oil-Based Nanofluid Flow through Conduits: A Review
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Sharma Mridul , Bala Anju , Kumar Anil , Maithani Rajesh , Sharma Sachin , Alam Tabish , Gupta Naveen , Sharifpur Mohsen
Published: November 2022

The application of nanofluids for enhancing the heat transfer rate is widely used in various heat exchanger applications. The selection of oil as the base to prepare nanofluids significantly enhances the thermal performance, due to its high heat carrying capacity as compared to conventional base fluid. A review is performed of various heat exchanger conduits having base fluid as nanoparticles with oil. It is reported that the heat transfer rate of a heat exchanger is significantly increased with the use of oil-based nanofluids. The rate of heat transfer depends on the type of nanoparticle, its concentration and diameter, the base fluid, as well as factors like the mixture of more than two nanoparticles (hybrid nanofluids) and stability. A review is also performed of the thermal performance of the different nanofluids analyzed by various investigators. The heat transfer system reviewed in this work includes triangular, square, and circular conduits, as well as rib surface conduits. The review of various applications viz. solar thermal systems, heat exchangers, refrigerators, and engines, is carried out where the inclusion of the oil base is used. It is reported that the amalgamation of the nanomaterial with the oil as base fluid is a prolific technique to enhance thermal performance. The performance of the reviewed research work is comparatively analyzed for different aspects viz. thermal oil, mineral oil, hybrid, and conventional nanoparticles, concentration of nanoparticles, etc. The novelty of the present work is the determination of the effective performing oil-based nanofluid in various applications, to figure out the selection of specific mineral oil, thermal oil, nanoparticle concentration, and hybrid nanofluids.
Discrete Heaped Model of Tobacco Strips Drying and Characteristics Analysis of Heat and Mass Transfer
Authors: Wei Qike , Wang Lihua , Jiang Wei , Wang Huaiyu , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2022

To accurately study the drying characteristics of tobacco strips in the process of redrying, a discrete heaped physical model of tobacco strips is built. Based on this model, a convective drying multiphase porous media model of the heaped tobacco strips is established, which considers the binary diffusion and transport of vapor inside and outside the tobacco leaf. The model is solved using COMSOL Multiphysics, and the accuracy of the model is verified by experiments. The changes in hot air velocity, vapor and moisture content, and evaporation rate in heaped tobacco strips with different thicknesses are analyzed. The results show that: it is feasible to study the drying characteristics of tobacco strips in redrying using a discrete heaped model; there were significant differences in water content, evaporation rate, and temperature in different regions of heaped tobacco strips; the increase in heaping thickness will significantly reduce the uniformity of heat and mass transfer of tobacco strips in the process of convection drying. This model can provide a reference for the study of heat and mass transfer in porous media, such as tobacco strips in the heaping state.
Comparative Evaluation of Mobile Platforms for Non-Structured Environments and Performance Requirements Identification for Forest Clearing Applications
Authors: Lourenço João Luís , Conde Bento Luís , Coimbra António Paulo , De Almeida Aníbal T.
Published: November 2022

The effort to automate is present across all industries. It has an economic purpose but potential impacts go far beyond economics. Research has been carried out and a lot of investment has been made in automation in a variety of industries, as well as in agriculture and forestry, which resulted in efficient solutions for diverse applications. In fact, more solutions have emerged in the field of agriculture than in any other. This can be explained in economic terms, but also in light of the complex navigation required because of unstructured environments such as forests. This paper provides a comprehensive review of existing mobile platforms and presents a comparative study for an application in forest clearing. We evaluate the size, automation levels, traction, energy source, locomotion systems, sensors/actuators availability and tools that such an application must have to succeed in its function. Hence, it will be possible to evaluate the feasibility of retrofitting an existing platform into an electric unmanned ground vehicle for forest clearing or if it is easier to start development from scratch. The evaluation results reveal that an electric unmanned ground vehicle for forest clearing is currently unavailable in the market and that a new platform is needed. The performance requirements for such a platform are identified and proposed in the paper.
Biological Potential of Alternative Kombucha Beverages Fermented on Essential Oil Distillation By-Products
Authors: Ranitović Aleksandra , Šovljanski Olja , Aćimović Milica , Pezo Lato , Tomić Ana , Travičić Vanja , Saveljić Anja , Cvetković Dragoljub , Ćetković Gordana , Vulić Jelena , Markov Siniša
Published: November 2022

The complete waste streams (solid waste residue, wastewater, and hydrolate) from the essential oil production of basil, chamomile, lavender, rosemary, and hyssop plants were used as a cultivation media for fermentations of a health-beneficial beverage called kombucha. Considering that these waste streams have not been used as a medium for obtaining kombucha, the main focus of this study was on the biological profiling and sensory analysis of newly-obtained kombucha beverages. According to fermentation parameters and advanced mathematical modelling, it can be concluded that kombucha made from chamomile essential oil by-products achieved the fastest successful kombucha fermentation, with a maximal titratable acidity of 7.2 g/L and a minimal pH value of 2.8. The results of other kombucha fermentations varied between the chosen plant and the waste stream used for beverage production. The obtained phenol and flavonoid contents were in the range of 12.4–56.46 mg GA/100 mL and 0.25–5.07 mg RU/100 mL, respectively. Higher antioxidant capacity as well as anti-inflammatory and antihyperglycemic activities of all kombucha beverages were observed compared to controls. Briefly, achieved DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power values were in the range 30.28–73.70, 192.25–683.29, and 19.37–82.76 mmol TE/100 mL, respectively. According to sensory analysis, the best performance or complete acceptability was noted for kombucha beverages made from lavender and hyssops (in the case of solid waste stream mixed with hydrolate) as well as basil (in the case of concentrated wastewater and hydrolate).