bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Proposal of Mode Polynomials for Efficient Use of Component Mode Synthesis and Methodology to Simplify the Calculation of the Connecting Beams
Authors: Park Jeong , Yoon Duck
Published: December 2020

Analytical method using Rayleigh–Ritz method has not been widely used recently due to intensive use of finite element analysis (FEA). However as long as suitable mode functions together with component mode synthesis (CMS) can be provided, Rayleigh–Ritz method is still useful for the vibration analysis of many local structures in a ship such as tanks and supports for an equipment. In this study, polynomials which combines a simple and a fixed support have been proposed for the satisfaction of boundary conditions at a junction. Higher order polynomials have been generated using those suggested by Bhat. Since higher order polynomials used only satisfy geometrical boundary conditions, two ways are tried. One neglects moment continuity and the other satisfies moment continuity by sum of mode polynomials. Numerical analysis have been performed for typical shapes, which can generate easily more complicated structures. Comparison with FEA result shows good agreements enough to be used for practical purpose. Frequently dynamic behavior of one specific subcomponent is more concerned. In this case suitable way to estimate dynamic and static coupling of subcomponents connected to this specific subcomponent should be provided, which is not easy task. Elimination of generalized coordinates for subcomponents by mode by mode satisfaction of boundary conditions has been proposed. These results are still very useful for initial guidance.
Understanding Ustilago maydis Infection of Multiple Maize Organs
Authors: Ferris Alex C , Walbot Virginia
Published: December 2020

Ustilago maydis is a smut fungus that infects all aerial maize organs, namely, seedling leaves, tassels, and ears. In all organs, tumors are formed by inducing hypertrophy and hyperplasia in actively dividing cells; however, the vast differences in cell types and developmental stages for different parts of the plant requires that U. maydis have both general and organ-specific strategies for infecting maize. In this review, we summarize how the maize–U. maydis interaction can be studied using mutant U. maydis strains to better understand how individual effectors contribute to this interaction, either through general or specific expression in a cell type, tissue, or organ. We also examine how male sterile maize mutants that do not support tumor formation can be used to explore key features of the maize anthers that are required for successful infection. Finally, we discuss key unanswered questions about the maize–U. maydis interaction and how new technologies can potentially be used to answer them.
Botrytis cinerea Transcriptome during the Infection Process of the Bryophyte Physcomitrium patens and Angiosperms
Authors: Reboledo Guillermo , Agorio Astrid , Vignale Lucía , Batista-García Ramón Alberto , Ponce De León Inés
Published: December 2020

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic pathogen that causes grey mold in many plant species, including crops and model plants of angiosperms. B. cinerea also infects and colonizes the bryophyte Physcomitrium patens (previously Physcomitrella patens), which perceives the pathogen and activates defense mechanisms. However, these defenses are not sufficient to stop fungal invasion, leading finally to plant decay. To gain more insights into B. cinerea infection and virulence strategies displayed during moss colonization, we performed genome wide transcriptional profiling of B. cinerea during different infection stages. We show that, in total, 1015 B. cinerea genes were differentially expressed in moss tissues. Expression patterns of upregulated genes and gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed that infection of P. patens tissues by B. cinerea depends on reactive oxygen species generation and detoxification, transporter activities, plant cell wall degradation and modification, toxin production and probable plant defense evasion by effector proteins. Moreover, a comparison with available RNAseq data during angiosperm infection, including Arabidopsis thaliana, Solanum lycopersicum and Lactuca sativa, suggests that B. cinerea has virulence and infection functions used in all hosts, while others are more specific to P. patens or angiosperms.
GAFOR: Genetic Algorithm Based Fuzzy Optimized Re-Clustering in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Shahzad Muhammad K. , Islam S. M. Riazul , Hossain Mahmud , Abdullah-Al-Wadud Mohammad , Alamri Atif , Hussain Mehdi
Published: December 2020

In recent years, the deployment of wireless sensor networks has become an imperative requisite for revolutionary areas such as environment monitoring and smart cities. The en-route filtering schemes primarily focus on energy saving by filtering false report injection attacks while network lifetime is usually ignored. These schemes also suffer from fixed path routing and fixed response to these attacks. Furthermore, the hot-spot is considered as one of the most crucial challenges in extending network lifetime. In this paper, we have proposed a genetic algorithm based fuzzy optimized re-clustering scheme to overcome the said limitations and thereby minimize the effect of the hot-spot problem. The fuzzy logic is applied to capture the underlying network conditions. In re-clustering, an important question is when to perform next clustering. To determine the time instant of the next re-clustering (i.e., number of nodes depleted—energy drained to zero), associated fuzzy membership functions are optimized using genetic algorithm. Simulation experiments validate the proposed scheme. It shows network lifetime extension of up to 3.64 fold while preserving detection capacity and energy-efficiency.
Financial Option Valuation by Unsupervised Learning with Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Salvador Beatriz , Oosterlee Cornelis W. , van der Meer Remco
Published: December 2020

Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have recently also been applied to solve partial differential equations (PDEs). The classical problem of pricing European and American financial options, based on the corresponding PDE formulations, is studied here. Instead of using numerical techniques based on finite element or difference methods, we address the problem using ANNs in the context of unsupervised learning. As a result, the ANN learns the option values for all possible underlying stock values at future time points, based on the minimization of a suitable loss function. For the European option, we solve the linear Black–Scholes equation, whereas for the American option we solve the linear complementarity problem formulation. Two-asset exotic option values are also computed, since ANNs enable the accurate valuation of high-dimensional options. The resulting errors of the ANN approach are assessed by comparing to the analytic option values or to numerical reference solutions (for American options, computed by finite elements). In the short note, previously published, a brief introduction to this work was given, where some ideas to price vanilla options by ANNs were presented, and only European options were addressed. In the current work, the methodology is introduced in much more detail.
Phenylhydrazone and Quinazoline Derivatives from the Cold-Seep-Derived Fungus Penicillium oxalicum
Authors: Liu Ya-Ping , Fang Sheng-Tao , Shi Zhen-Zhen , Wang Bin-Gui , Li Xiao-Nian , Ji Nai-Yun
Published: December 2020

Three new phenylhydrazones, penoxahydrazones A–C (compounds 1–3), and two new quinazolines, penoxazolones A (compound 4) and B (compound 5), with unique linkages were isolated from the fungus Penicillium oxalicum obtained from the deep sea cold seep. Their structures and relative configurations were assigned by analysis of 1D/2D NMR and mass spectroscopic data, and the absolute configurations of 1, 4, and 5 were established on the basis of X-ray crystallography or ECD calculations. Compound 1 represents the first natural phenylhydrazone-bearing steroid, while compounds 2 and 3 are rarely occurring phenylhydrazone tautomers. Compounds 4 and 5 are enantiomers that feature quinazoline and cinnamic acid units. Some isolates exhibited inhibition of several marine phytoplankton species and marine-derived bacteria.
Influence of Selected Factors on Biofilm Formation by Salmonella enterica Strains
Authors: Białucha Agata , Gospodarek-Komkowska Eugenia , Kwiecińska-Piróg Joanna , Skowron Krzysztof
Published: December 2020

Biofilm formed by S. enterica on the surface of gallstones or biomaterials promotes the development and spread of chronic infection. The aim of the study was to assess biofilm formation on the surface of polystyrene depending on nutritional conditions and the effect of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0% glucose and 3.0% bile and sub-inhibitory concentrations of ampicillin on biofilm formation of S. enterica. Sixty-nine clinical strains of S. enterica isolated from feces (92.8%) and blood (7.2%) collected from patients (66.7%) and carriers (33.3%) were used in the study. Assessment of forming 24-h biofilm by these strains was performed on the surface of polystyrene 96-well plates at 37 °C. In this study, it was indicated that 1.0% glucose and 3.0% bovine bile inhibit biofilm formation. Biofilm formation was inhibited in all examined sub-MIC of ampicillin. Biofilm formation is varied in different conditions, depending on the serovar.
A Gnotobiotic Model to Examine Plant and Microbiome Contributions to Survival under Arsenic Stress
Authors: Molina María del Carmen , White James F. , García-Salgado Sara , Quijano M. Ángeles , González-Benítez Natalia
Published: December 2020

So far, the relative importance of the plant and its microbiome in the development of early stages of plant seedling growth under arsenic stress has not been studied. To test the role of endophytic bacteria in increasing plant success under arsenic stress, gnotobiotic seeds of J. montana were inoculated with two endophytic bacteria: Pantoea conspicua MC-K1 (PGPB and As resistant bacteria) and Arthrobacter sp. MC-D3A (non-helper and non-As resistant bacteria) and an endobacteria mixture. In holobiotic seedlings (with seed-vectored microbes intact), neither the capacity of germination nor development of roots and lateral hairs was affected at 125 μM As(V). However, in gnotobiotic seedlings, the plants are negatively impacted by absence of a microbiome and presence of arsenic, resulting in reduced growth of roots and root hairs. The inoculation of a single PGPB (P. conspicua-MCK1) shows a tendency to the recovery of the plant, both in arsenic enriched and arsenic-free media, while the inoculation with Arthrobacter sp. does not help in the recovery of the plants. Inoculation with a bacterial mixture allows recovery of plants in arsenic free media; however, plants did not recover under arsenic stress, probably because of a bacterial interaction in the mixture.
Genomic Insight into Pediococcus acidilactici HN9, a Potential Probiotic Strain Isolated from the Traditional Thai-Style Fermented Beef Nhang
Authors: Surachat Komwit , Kantachote Duangporn , Deachamag Panchalika , Wonglapsuwan Monwadee
Published: December 2020

Pediococcus acidilactici HN9 is a beneficial lactic acid bacterium isolated from Nhang, a traditional Thai-style fermented beef. In this study, the molecular properties of P. acidilactici HN9 were characterized to provide insights into its potential probiotic activity. Specifically, this work sought to report the complete genome of P. acidilactici HN9 and perform a comparative genome analysis with other bacterial strains belonging to the genus Pediococcus. Genomic features of HN9 were compared with those of all other bacterial Pediococcus strains to examine the adaptation, evolutionary relationships, and diversity within this genus. Additionally, several bioinformatic approaches were used to investigate phylogenetic relationships, genome stability, virulence factors, bacteriocin production, and antimicrobial resistance genes of the HN9 strain, as well as to ensure its safety as a potential starter culture in food applications. A 2,034,522 bp circular chromosome and two circular plasmids, designated pHN9-1 (42,239-bp) and pHN9-2 (30,711-bp), were detected, and used for pan-genome analysis, as well as for identification of bacteriocin-encoding genes in 129 strains belonging to all Pediococcus species. Two CRISPR regions were identified in P. acidilactici HN9, including type II-A CRISPR/CRISPR-associated (Cas). This study provides an in-depth analysis on P. acidilactici HN9, facilitating a better understanding of its adaptability to different environments and its mechanism to maintain genome stability over time.
Plasmid Identification and Plasmid-Mediated Antimicrobial Gene Detection in Norwegian Isolates
Authors: Khezri Abdolrahman , Avershina Ekaterina , Ahmad Rafi
Published: December 2020

Norway is known for being one of the countries with the lowest levels of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR, through acquired genes located on transposons or conjugative plasmids, is the horizontal transmission of genes required for a given bacteria to withstand antibiotics. In this work, bioinformatic analysis of whole-genome sequences and hybrid assembled data from Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates from Norwegian patients was performed. For detection of putative plasmids in isolates, the plasmid assembly mode in SPAdes was used, followed by annotation of resulting contigs using PlasmidFinder and two curated plasmid databases (Brooks and PLSDB). Furthermore, ResFinder and Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance Database (CARD) were used for the identification of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The IncFIB plasmid was detected as the most prevalent plasmid in both E. coli, and K. pneumoniae isolates. Furthermore, ARGs such as aph(3″)-Ib, aph(6)-Id, sul1, sul2, tet(D), and qnrS1 were identified as the most abundant plasmid-mediated ARGs in Norwegian E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates, respectively. Using hybrid assembly, we were able to locate plasmids and predict ARGs more confidently. In conclusion, plasmid identification and ARG detection using whole-genome sequencing data are heavily dependent on the database of choice; therefore, it is best to use several tools and/or hybrid assembly for obtaining reliable identification results.
Performance of a Point-of-Care Test for the Rapid Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen
Authors: Strömer Annabelle , Rose Ruben , Schäfer Miriam , Schön Frieda , Vollersen Anna , Lorentz Thomas , Fickenscher Helmut , Krumbholz Andi
Published: December 2020

The rapid detection of infections caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is necessary in the ongoing pandemic. Antigen-specific point-of-care tests (POCT) may be useful for this purpose. Here, such a POCT (SARS-CoV-2 NADAL® COVID-19 Ag) was compared to a laboratory-developed triplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) designed for the detection of viral nucleoprotein gene and two control targets. This RT-PCR served as a reference to investigate POCT sensitivity by re-testing upper respiratory tract (URT) samples (n = 124) exhibiting different SARS-CoV-2 loads in terms of RT-PCR threshold cycle (Ct) values. The optical intensities of the antigen bands were compared to the Ct values of the RT-PCR. The infectivity of various virus loads was estimated by inoculating Vero cells with URT samples (n = 64, Ct 17-34). POCT sensitivity varied from 100% (Ct < 25) to 73.1% (Ct ≤ 30); higher SARS-CoV-2 loads correlated with higher band intensities. All samples with a Ct > 30 were negative; among SARS-CoV-2 free samples (n = 10) no false-positives were detected. A head-to-head comparison with another POCT (Abbott, Panbio™ COVID-19 Ag Rapid Test) yielded similar results. Isolation of SARS-CoV-2 in cell-culture was successful up to a Ct value of 29. The POCT reliably detects high SARS-CoV-2 loads and rapidly identifies infectious individuals.
The Occurrence of Aflatoxins in Nuts and Dry Nuts Packed in Four Different Plastic Packaging from the Romanian Market
Authors: Macri Adrian Maximilian , Pop Ioana , Simeanu Daniel , Toma Diana , Sandu Ion , Pavel Liliana Lacramioara , Mintas Olimpia Smaranda
Published: December 2020

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by various fungi. A very important category of mycotoxins are aflatoxins, considered to be the most dangerous in humans. Aflatoxin B1, well known as a favorable factor in the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma in humans, is the most controversial of all mycotoxins. Aflatoxins, found in naturally contaminated food, are resistant to degradation by heat. Current food processing practices and conventional storage conditions do not completely eliminate aflatoxin contamination from the food supply chain. Long storage food products—such as peanuts, pistachio, nuts in general, and dried fruits—are susceptible to aflatoxins contamination. The type of plastic material can influence the concentration of aflatoxins during storage due to the permeability to gas and moisture exchange with the external milieu. Nuts in general and dried fruits are consumed in large quantities worldwide. Therefore, herein we investigated the effect of plastic material on the total aflatoxins and aflatoxin B1 content in 64 samples of nuts and dried fruits packed and stored in low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The method consisted in a cleanup procedure using immunoaffinity columns coupled with RIDASCREEN FAST immunoenzymatic competitive assays based on the ELISA technique. Collected data were subjected to statistical analysis and multiple comparisons tests were applied. From the total analyzed samples, 14.06% exceeded the maximum admitted European levels for total aflatoxins. The highest concentrations of total aflatoxins were obtained from samples packed in LDPE, followed by PP, PE, and PET. Aflatoxin B1 was detected in all samples packed in LDPE, PP, and PE. Most of the samples packed in PET had concentrations <1 µg/kg. These results indicate that nuts in general packed and stored in LDPE are more prone to contamination with aflatoxins, while PET is more suitable for maintaining the quality and safety of these products.
Mobility of Radiogenic Helium in Amphibole
Authors: Tolstikhin Igor , Tarakanov Sergei , Kolobov Vitalii , Gannibal Maria
Published: December 2020

Recently experiments on He extraction from an amphibole by the incremental heating unexpectedly revealed that the He release pattern depends on the heating rate. During slow heating (~4 K·min−1) of the amphibole grains, one smooth peak of the He flux from the mineral was observed; in contrast, during fast heating (~40 K·min−1) an additional sharp peak appeared at a temperature about 750 °C. In order to explain these observations, we developed a model of He diffusion from the amphibole, which allowed the calculated He fluxes from the mineral to be reconciled with those observed. From the modelling we derived: (i) the helium diffusion domain size distribution, and evolution of the distribution in the course of incremental heating; (ii) occurrence of the tensile stresses, operating under enhanced temperatures above 700 °C. The stresses are different in sites with the different local thermal expansion of the crystalline lattice and they increase the He diffusion flux. The model can be applied to other minerals (materials).
Natural Products Targeting the Mitochondria in Cancers
Authors: Yang Yue , He Ping-Ya , Zhang Yi , Li Ning
Published: December 2020

There are abundant sources of anticancer drugs in nature that have a broad prospect in anticancer drug discovery. Natural compounds, with biological activities extracted from plants and marine and microbial metabolites, have significant antitumor effects, but their mechanisms are various. In addition to providing energy to cells, mitochondria are involved in processes, such as cell differentiation, cell signaling, and cell apoptosis, and they have the ability to regulate cell growth and cell cycle. Summing up recent data on how natural products regulate mitochondria is valuable for the development of anticancer drugs. This review focuses on natural products that have shown antitumor effects via regulating mitochondria. The search was done in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases, over a 5-year period, between 2015 and 2020, with a keyword search that focused on natural products, natural compounds, phytomedicine, Chinese medicine, antitumor, and mitochondria. Many natural products have been studied to have antitumor effects on different cells and can be further processed into useful drugs to treat cancer. In the process of searching for valuable new drugs, natural products such as terpenoids, flavonoids, saponins, alkaloids, coumarins, and quinones cover the broad space.
The Effects of Capsaicin on Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Popescu George Denis Alexandru , Scheau Cristian , Badarau Ioana Anca , Dumitrache Mihai-Daniel , Caruntu Ana , Scheau Andreea-Elena , Costache Daniel Octavian , Costache Raluca Simona , Constantin Carolina , Neagu Monica , Caruntu Constantin
Published: December 2020

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are a group of diseases with very high positions in the ranking of cancer incidence and mortality. While they show common features regarding the molecular mechanisms involved in cancer development, organ-specific pathophysiological processes may trigger distinct signaling pathways and intricate interactions with inflammatory cells from the tumoral milieu and mediators involved in tumorigenesis. The treatment of GI cancers is a topic of increasing interest due to the severity of these diseases, their impact on the patients’ survivability and quality of life, and the burden they set on the healthcare system. As the efficiency of existing drugs is hindered by chemoresistance and adverse reactions when administered in high doses, new therapies are sought, and emerging drugs, formulations, and substance synergies are the focus of a growing number of studies. A class of chemicals with great potential through anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumoral effects is phytochemicals, and capsaicin in particular is the subject of intensive research looking to validate its position in complementing cancer treatment. Our paper thoroughly reviews the available scientific evidence concerning the effects of capsaicin on major GI cancers and its interactions with the molecular pathways involved in the course of these diseases.
Palladium-Catalyzed C–H Arylation of Benzofurans with Triarylantimony Difluorides for the Synthesis of 2-Arylbenzofurans
Authors: Kitamura Yuki , Murata Yuki , Iwai Mizuki , Matsumura Mio , Yasuike Shuji
Published: December 2020

Pd-catalyzed regioselective C–H arylation is a useful tool for the chemical modification of aromatic heterocycles and 2-arylbenzofuran derivatives are of interest as biologically active substances. Herein, the reaction of triarylantimony difluorides with benzofurans under aerobic conditions in 1,2-DCE, using 5 mol% Pd (OAc)2 and 2 eq. of CuCl2 at 80 °C, produced a variety of 2-arylbenzofurans in moderate-to-high yields. The reaction is sensitive to the electronic nature of the substituents on the benzene ring of the triarylantimony difluorides: an electron-donating group showed higher reactivity than an electron-withdrawing group. Single crystal X-ray analysis of tri(p-methylphenyl) antimony difluoride revealed that the central antimony atom exhibits trigonal bipyramidal geometry.
Effects of Catalyst Pretreatment on Carbon Nanotube Synthesis from Methane Using Thin Stainless-Steel Foil as Catalyst by Chemical Vapor Deposition Method
Authors: Huynh Thuan Minh , Nguyen Sura , Nguyen Ngan Thi Kim , Nguyen Huan Manh , Do Noa Uy Pham , Nguyen Danh Cong , Nguyen Luong Huu , Nguyen Cattien V.
Published: December 2020

Synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was carried out using methane as a carbon source via the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. A thin stainless-steel foil was used as catalyst for CNT growth. Our results revealed that pretreatment step of the stainless-steel foil as a catalyst plays an important role in CNT formation. In our experiments, a catalyst pretreatment temperature of 850 °C or 950 °C was found to facilitate the creation of Fe- and Cr-rich particles are active sites on the foil surface, leading to CNT formation. It is noted that the size of metallic particles after pretreatment is closely related to the diameter of the synthesized CNTs. It is interesting that a shorter catalyst pretreatment brings the growth of semiconducting typed CNTs while a longer pretreatment creates metallic CNTs. This finding might lead to a process for improving the quality of CNTs grown on steel foil as catalyst.
Direct Growth of Carbon Nanotubes on Aluminum Foil by Atmospheric Pressure Microwave Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Li Dashuai , Tong Ling
Published: December 2020

This paper is about the research that carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grow on aluminum foils without additional catalysts by atmospheric pressure microwave plasma chemical vapor deposition (AMPCVD) with the precursor of argon-hydrogen-ethanol. At different temperatures, a series of experiments that CNTs grow on aluminum foils were done with and without the alumina layer. The EDS results showed that iron impurities in aluminum foils catalyze the growth of CNTs. By measurements of SEM and HRTEM, tens of microns long and multi-walled CNTs are grown. The CNTs’ content in the sample changes more with the increase in temperature. The Raman measuring shows that CNTs have fewer defects with higher temperature. Finally, by measurements of EDS mapping and XRD on aluminum foil, the growth mechanism of CNTs was discussed.
Task Scheduling Problem of Double-Deep Multi-Tier Shuttle Warehousing Systems
Authors: Zhan Xiangnan , Xu Liyun , Ling Xufeng
Published: December 2020

Double-deep multi-tier shuttle warehousing systems (DMSWS) have been increasingly applied for store-and-retrieval stock-keeping unit tasks, with the advantage of a reduced number of aisles and improved space utilization. Scheduling different devices for retrieval tasks to increase system efficiency is an important concern. In this paper, a Pareto optimization model of task operations based on the cycle time and carbon emissions is presented. The impact of the rearrangement operation is considered in this model. The cycle time model is converted into a flow-shop scheduling model with parallel machines by analyzing the retrieval operation process. Moreover, the carbon emissions of the shuttle in the waiting process, the carbon emissions of the lift during the free process, and the carbon emissions of the retrieval operation are considered in the carbon emissions model, which can help us to evaluate the carbon emissions of the equipment more comprehensively during the entire retrieval task process. The elitist non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) is adopted to solve the non-linear multi-objective optimization function. Finally, a real case is adopted to illustrate the findings of this study. The results show that this method can reduce carbon emissions and improve system efficiency. In addition, it also help managers to reduce operational costs and improve the utilization of shuttles.
Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion of Second Cheese Whey: Microbial Community Response to H2 Addition in a Partially Immobilized Anaerobic Hybrid Reactor
Authors: Lembo Giuseppe , Rosa Silvia , Mazzurco Miritana Valentina , Marone Antonella , Massini Giulia , Fenice Massimiliano , Signorini Antonella
Published: December 2020

In this study, we investigated thermophilic (55 °C) anaerobic digestion (AD) performance and microbial community structure, before and after hydrogen addition, in a novel hybrid gas-stirred tank reactor (GSTR) implemented with a partial immobilization of the microbial community and fed with second cheese whey (SCW). The results showed that H2 addition led to a 25% increase in the methane production rate and to a decrease of 13% in the CH4 concentration as compared with the control. The recovery of methane content (56%) was reached by decreasing the H2 flow rate. The microbial community investigations were performed on effluent (EF) and on interstitial matrix (IM) inside the immobilized area. Before H2 addition, the Anaerobaculaceae (42%) and Lachnospiraceae (27%) families dominated among bacteria in the effluent, and the Thermodesulfobiaceae (32%) and Lachnospiraceae (30%) families dominated in the interstitial matrix. After H2 addition, microbial abundance showed an increase in the bacteria and archaea communities in the interstitial matrix. The Thermodesulfobiaceae family (29%)remained dominant in the interstitial matrix, suggesting its crucial role in the immobilized community and the SHA-31 family was enriched in both the effluent (36%) and the interstitial matrix (15%). The predominance of archaea Methanothermobacter thermoautrophicus indicated that CH4 was produced almost exclusively by the hydrogenotrophic pathway.
Hydrodynamic and Mass Transfer in the Desorption Process of CO2 Gas in a Packed-Bed Stripper
Authors: Chen Pao Chi , Yang Ming-Wei , Lai Yan-Lin
Published: December 2020

A lab-scale packed-bed stripper containing Dixon rings was used to explore the effects of the process variables on the hydrodynamics and mass-transfer in a stripper using a mixed solvent loaded CO2. The variables are the liquid flow rate, reboiler temperature, and amine concentration, and the hydrodynamic and mass-transfer data can be determined using different models. In the case of hydrodynamics, the dimensionless pressure drop at the flooding point and the total pressure drop were explored first. In the case of mass-transfer, the correlation of the mass-transfer coefficient and the parameter importance were also observed. In addition, the number of plates per meter can be compared with the Dixon rings manufacturer. Finally, the performances of a mixed solvent and monoethanolamine (MEA) solvent were also discussed.
‘Uncovering the Self’: Religious Doubts, Spirituality and Unveiling in Egypt
Authors: van Nieuwkerk Karin
Published: December 2020

Since the 1980s, discourse on religious piety has taken many different forms, from mosque lessons by lay preachers—such as `Amr Khalid—to religious TV programmes and leisure activities. Within this widespread religious culture and cultivation of forms of visible piety, wearing the veil became an almost uncontested norm for women. As Saba Mahmood demonstrated, the veil became a crucial way to express and cultivate a ‘pious self’. Yet especially since the 2011 revolution and its aftermath, many young Egyptians started to question political, religious and patriarchal authorities. Amongst others, this took on open or hidden forms of non-believing, as well as a search for new forms of spirituality. Based on fieldwork and interviews, this contribution looks into the motives and experiences of women who decided to cast off the veil. In view of the hegemonic piety discourse, this is a huge issue, which is met by fierce reactions and accusations of immorality and non-belief. Whereas for some women this decision is an expression of religious doubt or a turn to a non-religious worldview, for others it is a way to contest the current piety discourse in a search for a more personal and spiritual connection with God. While the relationship with religion among my interlocutors might differ, they share a common attempt to uncover their ‘authentic selves’. By unveiling, they express their wish to define their own space and ideas regarding religion, gender and their bodies.
Respiratory Monitoring Based on Tracheal Sounds: Continuous Time-Frequency Processing of the Phonospirogram Combined with Phonocardiogram-Derived Respiration
Authors: Lu Xinyue , Azevedo Coste Christine , Nierat Marie-Cécile , Renaux Serge , Similowski Thomas , Guiraud David
Published: December 2020

Patients with central respiratory paralysis can benefit from diaphragm pacing to restore respiratory function. However, it would be important to develop a continuous respiratory monitoring method to alert on apnea occurrence, in order to improve the efficiency and safety of the pacing system. In this study, we present a preliminary validation of an acoustic apnea detection method on healthy subjects data. Thirteen healthy participants performed one session of two 2-min recordings, including a voluntary respiratory pause. The recordings were post-processed by combining temporal and frequency detection domains, and a new method was proposed—Phonocardiogram-Derived Respiration (PDR). The detection results were compared to synchronized pneumotachograph, electrocardiogram (ECG), and abdominal strap (plethysmograph) signals. The proposed method reached an apnea detection rate of 92.3%, with 99.36% specificity, 85.27% sensitivity, and 91.49% accuracy. PDR method showed a good correlation of 0.77 with ECG-Derived Respiration (EDR). The comparison of R-R intervals and S-S intervals also indicated a good correlation of 0.89. The performance of this respiratory detection algorithm meets the minimal requirements to make it usable in a real situation. Noises from the participant by speaking or from the environment had little influence on the detection result, as well as body position. The high correlation between PDR and EDR indicates the feasibility of monitoring respiration with PDR.
AirSign: Smartphone Authentication by Signing in the Air
Authors: Shao Yubo , Yang Tinghan , Wang He , Ma Jianzhu
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we propose AirSign, a novel user authentication technology to provide users with more convenient, intuitive, and secure ways of interacting with smartphones in daily settings. AirSign leverages both acoustic and motion sensors for user authentication by signing signatures in the air through smartphones without requiring any special hardware. This technology actively transmits inaudible acoustic signals from the earpiece speaker, receives echoes back through both built-in microphones to “illuminate” signature and hand geometry, and authenticates users according to the unique features extracted from echoes and motion sensors. To evaluate our system, we collected registered, genuine, and forged signatures from 30 participants, and by applying AirSign on the above dataset, we were able to successfully distinguish between genuine and forged signatures with a 97.1% F-score while requesting only seven signatures during the registration phase.
A Novel Epidemic Model for Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Network Security
Authors: Liu Guiyun , Peng Baihao , Zhong Xiaojing
Published: December 2020

With the development of wireless rechargeable sensor networks (WRSNs ), security issues of WRSNs have attracted more attention from scholars around the world. In this paper, a novel epidemic model, SILS(Susceptible, Infected, Low-energy, Susceptible), considering the removal, charging and reinfection process of WRSNs is proposed. Subsequently, the local and global stabilities of disease-free and epidemic equilibrium points are analyzed and simulated after obtaining the basic reproductive number R0. Detailedly, the simulations further reveal the unique characteristics of SILS when it tends to being stable, and the relationship between the charging rate and R0. Furthermore, the attack-defense game between malware and WRSNs is constructed and the optimal strategies of both players are obtained. Consequently, in the case of R0<1 and R0>1, the validity of the optimal strategies is verified by comparing with the non-optimal control group in the evolution of sensor nodes and accumulated cost.
Foot Pressure Wearable Sensors for Freezing of Gait Detection in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Marcante Andrea , Di Marco Roberto , Gentile Giovanni , Pellicano Clelia , Assogna Francesca , Pontieri Francesco Ernesto , Spalletta Gianfranco , Macchiusi Lucia , Gatsios Dimitris , Giannakis Alexandros , Chondrogiorgi Maria , Konitsiotis Spyridon , Fotiadis Dimitrios I. , Antonini Angelo
Published: December 2020

Freezing of Gait (FoG) is a common symptom in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) occurring with significant variability and severity and is associated with increased risk of falls. FoG detection in everyday life is not trivial, particularly in patients manifesting the symptom only in specific conditions. Various wearable devices have been proposed to detect PD symptoms, primarily based on inertial sensors. We here report the results of the validation of a novel system based on a pair of pressure insoles equipped with a 3D accelerometer to detect FoG episodes. Twenty PD patients attended a motor assessment protocol organized into eight multiple video recorded sessions, both in clinical and ecological settings and both in the ON and OFF state. We compared the FoG episodes detected using the processed data gathered from the insoles with those tagged by a clinician on video recordings. The algorithm correctly detected 90% of the episodes. The false positive rate was 6% and the false negative rate 4%. The algorithm reliably detects freezing of gait in clinical settings while performing ecological tasks. This result is promising for freezing of gait detection in everyday life via wearable instrumented insoles that can be integrated into a more complex system for comprehensive motor symptom monitoring in PD.
Dynamic Transmit Profile Selection in Dense Wireless Networks
Authors: Kułacz Łukasz , Kliks Adrian , Kryszkiewicz Paweł , Bossy Bartosz
Published: December 2020

The development of wireless networks can be characterized by both the increased number of deployed network nodes as well as their greater heterogeneity. As a consequence, the distance between the neighboring nodes decreases significantly, the density of such a wireless network is very high, and it brings to the mind the analogy to the human brain and nervous system, where a highly simplified scheme of information delivery is applied. Motivated by this similarity, in this paper, we study the possibility of the application of various transmission profiles in order to optimize the overall energy consumption in such dense wireless networks. The transmission profile specifies the radio access and energy consumption of the wireless transceiver (network node), and is characterized by the tuple of parameters, e.g., the total transmit power or minimal required signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). In the considered multi-hop network, we assume that each node can be set to the most promising transmission profile to achieve some predefined goals, such as (sensor) network reliability or transmission energy efficiency. We have proposed the new graph-based routing algorithm in such a dense wireless network, where total power consumption of message delivery is minimized by multihop and multimode transmission. The theoretical definition of the prospective transmission schemes is supported by the analysis of the results of the simulation experiments.
A Fibre-Optic Platform for Sensing Nitrate Using Conducting Polymers
Authors: Shahnia Soroush , Ebendorff-Heidepriem Heike , Evans Drew , Afshar Shahraam
Published: December 2020

Monitoring nitrate ions is essential in agriculture, food industry, health sector and aquatic ecosystem. We show that a conducting polymer, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), can be used for nitrate sensing through a process in which nitrate ion uptake leads to oxidation of PEDOT and change of its optical properties. In this study, a new platform is developed in which a single-mode fibre coated at the tip with PEDOT is used for nitrate sensing. A crucial step towards this goal is introduction of carbonate exposure to chemically reduced PEDOT to a baseline value. The proposed platform exhibits the change in optical behaviour of the PEDOT layer at the tip of the fibre as it undergoes chemical oxidation and reduction (redox). The change in optical properties due to redox switching varies with the intensity of light back reflected by the fibre coated with PEDOT. The proposed platform during oxidation demonstrates linear response for the uptake of nitrate ions in concentrations ranging between 0.2 and 40 parts per million (ppm), with a regression coefficient R2=0.97 and a detection limit of 6.7 ppm. The procedure for redox switching is repeatable as the back reflection light intensity reaches ±1.5% of the initial value after reduction.
TO STUDY THE DYNAMICS OF IMMUNITY IN BLACK-AND-WHITE COWS DEPENDING ON AGE
Authors: ДОВЫДЕНКОВА М.В.
Published: December 2020

Проведена статистическая обработка сформированной базы данных показателей неспецифической резистентности MS «Excel» с целью изучения динамики иммунитета по параметрам бактерицидной, лизоцимной и фагоцитарной активности у крупного рогатого скота черно-пестрой породы разных возрастов. Было установлено, что средние значения показателей лизоцимной и бактерицидной активности у телят в 6 мес были ниже (47,89% и 49,09%, соответственно), чем у животных в 3—4 года (53,75% и 52,81%). Выведено уравнение регрессии, описывающее взаимосвязь между средними показателями фагоцитарной активности и возрастом при высокой степени достоверности (R2=0,90). Изменения лизоцимной и бактерицидной активности в зависимости от возраста были недостоверными (R2=0,58 и R2=0,49, соответственно). Установлена высокая корреляция между бактерицидной и лизоцимной активностью. Отмечена динамика изменения неспецифического иммунитета у коров различных возрастных групп. Создание баз данных и постоянный мониторинг основных показателей естественной резистентности в зависимости от различных факторов (породы, возраста, стадий лактации, кормления, способов содержания), которые влияют на данные показатели, необходимо для оценки физиологического состояния организма животных и их устойчивости к болезням.

Statistical processing of the generated MS "Excel" on indicators of non-specific resistance database was carried out with the aim of studying the dynamics of the development of immunity in terms of bactericidal, lysozyme and phagocytic activity in black-and-white cattle of different ages. It was found that the average values of indicators of lysozyme and bactericidal activity in calves at 6 months were lower (47.89% and 49.09%, respectively) than in animals at the age of 3—4 years (53.75% and 52.81%). The equation of regression was derived, it describes the relationship between the average indicators of phagocytic activity and the age with a high degree of reliability (R2=0.90). The changes in lysozyme and bactericidal activity depending on age were dubious (R2=0.58 and R2=0.49, respectively). The high correlation between bactericidal and lysozyme activity was established. It was noticed that the cows of different age groups experienced the dynamics of changes in nonspecific immunity. The creation of databases and constant monitoring of the main indicators of natural resistance, depending on various factors (breed, age, stages of lactation, feeding, methods of keeping) that affect these indicators, is necessary for assessing the physiological state of the animals’ body of and their resistance to diseases.
Rekreatif Etkinliklerin Seçiminde Kişilik Özelliklerinin Etkisi: Turizm Rehberliği Öğrencileri Üzerine Bir Araştırma
Authors: KABAKULAK Ali , BAŞAR Berkan , SOYBALI Hasan Hüseyin
Published: December 2020

Amaç ve Önem: Bu araştırmanın amacı rekreatif etkinliklerin seçiminde kişilik özelliklerinin etkisini ortaya koymaktır. Daha önce farklı alanlarda ve örneklemler üzerinde çalışmalar yapılmış ve öğrencilerin rekreatif faaliyetlere katılım motivasyonları, düzeyi vb. açıdan incelenmiştir. Ancak, turizm rehberliği öğrencilerinin rekreatif etkinliklerin seçiminde kişilik özelliklerinin etkisini inceleyen herhangi bir çalışmanın olmaması literatüre katkı sağlaması ve ilgililere fikir vermesinin yanı sıra eksikliklerin giderilmesi açısından fayda sağlayacak bir çalışma olmasından dolayı önemli görülmektedir.Yöntem: Araştırmada nicel araştırma yöntemlerinden anket tekniği bu çalışmada tercih edilmiştir. Araştırmada olasılıklı olmayan örneklem tekniklerinden kolayda örnekleme kullanılması uygun bulunmuştur. Araştırmada yüzde, frekans, korelasyon ve regresyon analizleri kullanılmıştır.Bulgular: Araştırmada yapılan veri analizleri sonucunda turizm rehberliği bölümünde eğitim görmekte olan 216 öğrenciye anket uygulanmış; eksik ve hatalı doldurulan anketler analizden çıkarılmıştır. Bu kapsamda 193 öğrenciden elde edilen veriler analize tabi tutulmuştur. Turizm rehberliği öğrencilerinin gösterdikleri en baskın kişilik özelliklerinin sırasıyla sorumluluk, geçimlilik (uyumluluk), açıklık ve dışadönük olurken en düşük gösterilen kişilik özelliğinin ise nevrotiklik (duygusal denge) olduğu belirlenmiştir. Turizm rehberliği öğrencilerinin rekreatif etkinliklerin seçiminde en etkili tercih sebebi zamanın uygun olmasıyken en az etkileyen tercih etme nedeni ise TV’deki sağlıklı yaşam programları olduğu belirlenmiştir.Özgünlük/Bilimsel Katkı: Bu çalışmada, turizm rehberliği bölümü öğrencilerinin rekreatif etkinliklerin seçiminde kişilik özelliklerinin etkinlik derecesini ortaya koyması, daha önce turizm rehberliği öğrencileri özelinde ve iki değişkenin bir arada olduğu çalışmalara rastlanmamış olması araştırmanın özgünlüğüne işaret etmektedir.Sınırlılıklar: Bu çalışmanın sadece Afyon Kocatepe Üniversitesi Turizm Rehberliği bölümü öğrencilerinden oluşması araştırmanın sınırlılığını oluşturmaktadır. Diğer üniversitelerdeki turizm rehberliği bölümü öğrencilerine ulaşmak zaman ve maliyet açısından sorun yaratırken; ayrıca fakülte/meslek yüksekokulu yönetimlerinden araştırma izninin alınmasının gerekliliği yasal yönden ve zaman açısından; bununla birlikte çevrimiçi anketlerle verilerin toplanmasında ise öğrencilerin anketi doldurmak için gerekli zamanı ayırmaması ve ilerleyen zamanlarda da anketi doldurmayı göz ardı etmeleri araştırmanın sınırlılıklarını oluşturmaktadır.
Proclo, Dionisio y el pensamiento eriugeniano en la Expositio de Bertoldo de Moosburg
Authors: Ludueña Ezequiel
Published: December 2020

Uno de los objetivos de la Expositio in Elementationem theologicam de Bertoldo de Moosburg es señalar un acuerdo substancial entre el pensamiento de Proclo y el del discípulo de Pablo, “Dionisio Areopagita”. En este sentido, es importante el empleo que hace Bertoldo de un distingo agustiniano: aquel entre el orden de la providencia voluntaria y el orden de la providencia natural. Para Bertoldo, estas no se oponen; al contrario, están, en lo esencial, de acuerdo. Un ejemplo de esta armonía está dado precisamente por la coincidencia fundamental que Bertoldo cree advertir entre Proclo –cuya Elementatio representa el punto de vista del orden de la providencia natural– y Dionisio –que, en general, ofrece el punto de vista del orden de la providencia voluntaria. Construir un diálogo entre ambos pensadores es uno de los principales objetivos de Bertoldo. Ahora bien, en ese proyecto, al pensamiento eriugeniano le está reservado un papel preciso, en particular en lo concerniente a la comprensión de la metafísica politeísta de Proclo. Resulta revelador atender a la forma en que Bertoldo introduce las citas de sus varias fuentes eriugenianas. Parece claro que, en la Expositio, el eriugeniano es entendido como un pensamiento cristiano de orden filosófico que media entre Proclo y Dionisio, entre un platonismo pagano y un platonismo cristiano.
La importancia de rastrear el pensamiento de Aristóteles en la Nueva España
Authors: Aspe Armella Virginia
Published: December 2020

Este escrito da razones externas e internas por las que es necesario acuñar el término “aristotelismo novohispano”. La autora de cuenta de la necesidad de pensar la filosofía desde la lengua vernácula y conociendo las tradiciones filosóficas que formaron el horizonte de comprensión del pensamiento iberoamericano. En la primera parte del texto, la autora expone la génesis del aristotelismo salmantino del siglo XV, la formación académica de los frailes venidos a América en el siglo XVI y analiza el caso concreto de Nueva España en la cátedra y polémicas. La segunda parte del texto presenta argumentaciones formuladas por autores de la época.
Portándonos mal, diciendo alguna verdad: palabras y andanzas previas para una presentación
Authors: Giuliano Facundo
Published: December 2020

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