bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of High-Concentration Aerosol Phenomena Using Their Physical Properties in Busan, South Korea
Authors: Kang Deok-Du , Goo Tae-Young , Lee Dong-In
Published: December 2022

High concentrations of aerosols associated with various meteorological phenomena show different physical characteristics. Because these phenomena are differentiated based on the visibility observed with the eyes, the observation may be unreliable. To investigate aerosol physical properties across various meteorological phenomena and develop an algorithm to classify high-concentration aerosol events, each phenomenon was assessed by analyzing the aerosol number and mass concentrations according to particle size observed with an optical particle counter. Furthermore, the optimal probability density function for each phenomenon was derived using the mass concentration by diameter. In addition, total aerosol mass concentrations, geometric mean particle diameters, and geometric standard deviations were calculated. In the coarse mode, the total mass concentration of the Asian dust case was the highest (16.3 μg·cm−3), whereas in the accumulation mode, the haze value was greatest (22.86 μg·cm−3). Average diameters were 4.41 and 0.41 μm in the coarse and accumulation modes, respectively. A classification algorithm for high-concentration aerosol phenomena was proposed based on the determined physical properties, results of simulating long-distance transport using a backward trajectory model, and meteorological conditions. Among the nine verification cases, all the cases coincided with the observation results of the Korea Meteorological Administration.
From Simulations to Accelerated Testing: Design of Experiments for Accelerated Load Testing of a Wind Turbine Drivetrain Based on Aeroelastic Multibody Simulation Data
Authors: Azzam Baher , Schelenz Ralf , Cardaun Martin , Jacobs Georg
Published: December 2022

The trend of increasing the power output and nominal load capacities of wind turbines (WT) over time has been driving the construction of testing facilities with increasing load capacities for testing WT drivetrain components prior to field deployment. Due to the high investment and operational costs of such facilities, a need exists to design accelerated tests that cover load situations corresponding to expected field conditions while maintaining high time-efficiency. This investigation addresses this need by presenting a methodology to achieve the following goals. Firstly, identifying ranges and combinations of WT 6-degree of freedom (6-DOF) rotor loads is to be expected in the field. This is achieved using aeroelastic multibody simulations (MBS) of an MBS WT model being subjected to simulated wind fields covering the design load cases outlined in the IEC 61400-1 standard and by analyzing the simulated time-series data to design accelerated tests that efficiently and realistically cover the design space of the variables, e.g., 6-DOF rotor loads, to be applied during WT drivetrain testing. The designed tests are to take place on a purpose-built test rig that allows for the application and control of the 6-DOF drivetrain input loads and rotational speed. Using the proposed method, accelerated tests were designed that efficiently cover load combinations within the realistic regions of the design space. A comparison with a full factorial design of experiments shows a significant (95+ %) reduction in total test time as well as the ability of the proposed method to help to avoid unsustainable and unrealistic load conditions within the design space that could result in costly, unintended drivetrain failures during testing.
Mechanical Feasibility of Asphalt Materials for Pavement Solar Collectors: Small-Scale Laboratory Characterization
Authors: Pasetto Marco , Baliello Andrea , Giacomello Giovanni , Pasquini Emiliano
Published: December 2022

Rutting (i.e., depressions along the wheel path) is a distress exhibited by flexible asphalt pavements at high in-service temperatures negatively affecting ride comfort and safety. In this regard, the fine asphalt mortar (i.e., bitumen filler and fine sand) plays a key role in the rutting potential of the asphalt mixtures. Given this background, this manuscript presents a small-scale laboratory experimentation aimed at assessing the rutting-related performance of a plain bitumen combined with natural (limestone) or manufactured (steel slag) fine aggregates (size up to 0.18 mm) through advanced experimental and theoretical approaches. Specific rheological tests through dynamic shear were carried out to achieve this goal. The investigated asphalt blends came from a wider research project focused on the implementation of a pavement solar collector (a road system to harvest the solar energy irradiating the pavement). In particular, the present paper aimed at verifying the mechanical suitability of the produced asphalt mixes with respect to permanent deformation resistance. Such a small-scale investigation mainly showed that the previously selected constituent materials did not imply criticisms in terms of rutting response.
A Study on the Psychological Noise Reduction Effect on Dental Handpiece Noise through the Bone Conduction Speaker Equipped Unit Chair and Notch-Filtered Music
Authors: Jo Yeabon , Kang Woojin , Hong Sungwoo , Bandoy Joseph Vermont , Kwon Hyuk-Sang , Kim Heejung , Song Eunsung
Published: December 2022

Anxiety in dental patients has caused inconvenient experiences during their dental visits due to the noise generated by the dental handpiece. High-frequency sounds generated by the handpiece have been challenging to reduce using the active control method that targets low-frequency sounds, as well as the difficulty in applying the noise control method using sound-absorbing materials, because the size of the handpiece is small. As an alternative, a method that can reduce noise and provide stability by playing music to patients is being studied. However, in most studies, there are inconveniences such as the need to turn the music volume higher to cover dental handpiece noise or having to wear headphones to play music. In this study, in order to reduce this inconvenience and optimize the noise reduction effect of music, we propose a technology that converts music into sound masking and a unit chair equipped with a bone conduction speaker that plays music, and through clinical trials with 35 patients, it was confirmed that the proposed system made the patients emotionally stable. In addition, by analyzing the causes of these emotional changes, it suggests that the preferred genre of music by patients should also be considered.
Elemental Abundances of Moon Samples Based on Statistical Distributions of Analytical Data
Authors: Hou Zhiguan , Gong Qingjie , Liu Ningqiang , Jiang Biao , Li Jie , Wu Yuan , Huang Jiaxin , Gu Weixuan
Published: December 2022

The successful return of Chang’E-5 (CE5) samples urges the hot topic of the study of the Moon in geochemistry. The elemental data of the analyzed moon samples reported in the literature were collected to determine the elemental abundances in moon samples. Based on 2365 analytical records of moon samples from ten missions of Apollo, Luna, and CE5, elemental abundances of 11 major oxides including Cr2O3, 50 trace elements including Ti, P, Mn, Cr, and 15 rare earth elements (REEs) including Y are derived based on statistical distributions of normal, log-normal, and additive log-ratio transformation, respectively. According to the value of 13.5% CaO content, moon samples are classified into two types, as low-Ca and high-Ca samples, whose elemental abundances are also calculated respectively based on the methods used in the total moon samples. With respect to the mid-ocean ridge basalt (MORB) of the Earth, moon samples (including the Moon, low-Ca, and high-Ca samples) are rich in Cr, REEs, Th, U, Pb, Zr, Hf, Cs, Ba, W, and Be and poor in Na, V, Cu, and Zn in terms of their concentrations, and are enriched in Cr and depleted in Na, K, Rb, P, V, Cu, Zn in spider diagrams. The CE5 sample is a low-Ca type of moon sample and is clearly rich in Ti, Fe, Mn, P, Sc, REEs, Th, U, Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, Sr, Ba, W, and Be and poor in Mg, Al, Cr, and Ni in terms of their concentrations relative to the moon or the low-Ca samples. If compared with the moon sample, the CE5 sample is also clearly rich in K, REE, and P.
Efficiency and Optimization of Buildings Energy Consumption Volume II
Authors: Orosa José A.
Published: December 2022

This issue, as a continuation of a previous Special Issue on “Efficiency and Optimization of Buildings Energy Consumption,” gives an up-to-date overview of new technologies based on Machine Learning (ML) and Internet of Things (IoT) procedures to improve the mathematical approach of algorithms that allow control systems to be improved with the aim of reducing housing sector energy consumption [...]
Fatty Acid Profile, Mineral Composition, and Health Implications of Consuming Dried Sago Grubs (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)
Authors: Kavle Ruchita Rao , Pritchard Ellenna Tamsin Maree , Carne Alan , Bekhit Alaa El-Din Ahmed , Agyei Dominic
Published: December 2022

A comprehensive evaluation of the fatty acid and mineral composition of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (sago grub powder, SGP), pre-treated to meet New Zealand import biosecurity requirements, was investigated. Palmitic acid (42.5% FA), oleic acid (39.0% FA), and linoleic acid (1.02% FA) were the most abundant saturated fatty acid, monounsaturated fatty acid, and polyunsaturated fatty acid, respectively. Lipid nutritional indices of SGP fats were ω6/ω3 (2.17), hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic acid ratio (0.88), atherogenicity index (1.01), thrombogenicity index (1.65), and health-promoting index (0.99). Although there are no established recommended values for these dietary indicators, including them in a balanced diet may be advised to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. The mineral analysis profile of the SGP found 11 essential and 29 non-essential minerals, and 4 heavy metals. SGP was rich in important minerals such as potassium (1657 mg/kg DW), magnesium (805.3 mg/kg DW), iron (23 mg/kg DW), manganese (8.8 mg/kg DW), calcium (477 mg/kg DW), and phosphorus (2950 mg/kg DW). However, the Ca:P ratio (0.16:1) of SGP samples was lower than the recommended Ca:P ratio (1.3:1) needed for optimum bone health. Heavy metals such as arsenic (0.17 mg/kg DW), cadmium (0.04 mg/kg DW), lead (0.56 mg/kg DW), and vanadium (0.01 mg/kg DW) were detectable in SGP but were below acceptable toxicity limits. These findings indicate that SGP pre-treated for export is safe for consumption and contains appreciable nutrients, especially minerals. However, the nutritional and health implications of the elevated saturated fatty acid levels, low polyunsaturated fatty acid contents, and low Ca:P ratio of SGP should be considered when choosing sago grubs as a food source.
A New Hybrid Positioning Method by Fusion of BDS and 5G Signal Using the Particle Swarm Method
Authors: Lu Jun , Ding Wuyi , Wang Wei , Hu Enwen , Wu Jianfeng
Published: December 2022

In recent years, with the vigorous construction of 5G networks, the high-density deployment, low delay, and high bandwidth of 5G network systems have enabled high-precision positioning services. By integrating the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS) and 5G systems, more reliable positioning services can be provided, and BDS–5G signal integrated positioning has become a new research hotspot. However, BDS–5G signal fusion positioning faces the problems of how to build an effective fusion positioning model between heterogeneous systems and the high complexity of multiobjective function positioning solutions. Therefore, this paper constructs a TOA/TDOA fusion positioning model of BDS–5G signals and introduces the multiobjective particle swarm optimization positioning solution method (MOPSO) to realize the reliable positioning of BDS and 5G signal system fusion (MOPSO-TOA/TDOA). The experimental results show that compared with the traditional BDS–5G signal fusion positioning algorithm based on a Kalman filter, the positioning accuracy of the BDS–5G signal joint solution system based on a multiobjective particle fusion algorithm is 24.8% higher than that of the Kalman filter in terms of positioning convergence time, 18.9% higher in terms of system positioning accuracy, and 50–80% higher than that of the BDS positioning system alone, and the reliable positioning ability in complex environments is effectively enhanced.
Study on Temperature Correction of Asphalt Pavement Deflection Based on the Deflection Change Rate
Authors: Hu Xiao , Li Jiahao , Hu Yue , Sun Lijun
Published: December 2022

The pavement deflection measured by falling weight deflectometer (FWD) detection equipment can be used to determine the bearing capacity of a pavement structure through modulus backcalculation to provide suggestions for pavement structure maintenance. However, because asphalt mixtures are temperature-sensitive materials, they are greatly affected by temperature, and changes in temperature can cause their mechanical properties to vary and affect the structural bearing capacity. Therefore, this paper conducts a pavement deflection test on an in-service highway asphalt pavement at different temperatures in different seasons. The representative temperature of the asphalt layer was determined through comparative analysis. The temperature’s effective influence distance on the deflection basin was found, and a more suitable temperature correction model for the deflection basin of asphalt pavement was established. The results showed that the temperature at the middle layer depth of the asphalt layer is more suitable as the representative temperature of the asphalt layer. The effective influence range of temperature on the deflection basin is 90 cm. The deflection change rate before and after the temperature correction at a radial distance of 20 cm is more appropriate for the temperature correction of the deflection basin.
The Threat of Mercury Poisoning by Fish Consumption
Authors: Dragan Felicia , Lestyan Marieta , Lupu Vasile Valeriu , Marcu Florin Mihai , Cozma Alina , Fodor Katalin , Ciubara Anamaria , Moisa Corina Florentina , Teaha Diana , Lupu Ancuta , Starcea Iuliana Magdalena , Ignat Alina Elena , Ciubara Alexandru Bogdan
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Fish is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc, which are key nutrients for infant growth and development, as well as a source of energy for adults and the elderly. Due to mercury contamination in both the terrestrial and aquatic environments, there is a risk that considerable levels of mercury will be ingested by the population, causing undesired illnesses and metabolic symptoms once they reach the body. The purpose of this research was to show and emphasize the hazardous effect of mercury in diverse marine products; (2) Methods: We conducted a comparative, open, randomized, non-interventional study on a study group of 119 adults from varied social and demographic backgrounds to assess the bad repercussions of mercury poisoning from fish consumption. A questionnaire with 18 questions was prepared in order to obtain information about the impact, i.e., the dangers present in fish meat. The research was carried out in Oradea and Bihor County, Romania; (3) Results: The largest age group was between the ages of 25–34, but we had respondents from almost all age groups. Most of them considered the fish healthy (30%) and that the omega-3 fatty acids have beneficial effects on the body (25.10%). More than a half of respondents (55%) were unaware of the hidden danger in fish meat in the form of mercury derivatives. Most respondents (65%) considered that they did not consume enough amounts of fish to suffer the consequences of this phenomenon. More than a half of respondents (59%) agreed that they should have been made aware beforehand by displaying the hazards of excessive intake of some high mercury concentration fish species; (4) Conclusions: It is imperative that the population be informed about dangers of mercury toxicity when consuming fish. Mercury must be gradually eliminated worldwide by replacing it with safer alternatives.
Acoustic Properties Comparison of Ti6Al4V Produced by Conventional Method and AM Technology in the Aspect of Ultrasonic Structural Health Monitoring of Adhesive Joints
Authors: Kowalczyk Jakub , Ulbrich Dariusz , Nowak Michał , Sędłak Kamil , Gruber Konrad , Kurzynowski Tomasz , Jósko Marian
Published: December 2022

The article presents the results of ultrasonic testing of Ti6Al4V material produced by the conventional method and the laser bed fusion method. Modern manufacturing techniques, such as additive manufacturing, allow the production of parts with complex shapes. It is important to control the condition of such components throughout their lifetime. The purpose of this article was to determine the basic acoustic properties of Ti6Al4V material produced by two different methods—bar drawing and the additive manufacturing method. On this basis, an inspection scheme was developed for adhesive joints, the components of which are made by additive manufacturing technology. The decibel drops in the amplitudes of pulses reflected from the boundary of the adhesive-Ti6Al4V-AM and adhesive-Ti6Al4V joints were determined. The decibel drops for the connection of materials made with additive technology are higher than for the material made in a conventional way. The difference in decibel drop in the amplitudes of the additive manufactured material versus the drawn rod, depending on the ultrasonic head, can be up to 60%. The results of the study provide an important practical guideline for testing adhesive joints of parts made with additive manufacturing technology.
Auto-Scoring Feature Based on Sentence Transformer Similarity Check with Korean Sentences Spoken by Foreigners
Authors: Wahyutama Aria Bisma , Hwang Mintae
Published: December 2022

This paper contains the development of a training service for foreigners to help them increase their ability to speak Korean. The service developed in this paper is implemented in the form of a mobile application that shows specific Korean sentences to the user for them to record themselves speaking the sentence. The objective is to generate the score automatically based on how similar the recorded voice with the actual sentence using Speech-To-Text (STT) engines and Sentence Transformers. The application is developed by selecting the four most commonly known STT engines with similar features, which are Google API, Microsoft Azure, Naver Clova, and IBM Watson, which are put into a Rest API along with the Sentence Transformer. The mobile application will record the user’s voice and send it to the Rest API. The STT engines will transcribe the file into a text and then feed it into a Sentence Transformer to generate the score based on their similarity. After measuring the response time and consistency as the performance evaluation by simulating a scenario using an Android emulator, Microsoft Azure with 1.13 s is found to be the fastest STT engine and Naver Clova is found to be the least consistent engine with nine different transcribe results.
Windowed Eigen-Decomposition Algorithm for Motion Artifact Reduction in Optical Coherence Tomography-Based Angiography
Authors: Zhang Tianyu , Zhou Kanheng , Rocliffe Holly , Pellicoro Antonella , Cash Jenna , Wang Wendy , Wang Zhiqiong , Li Chunhui , Huang Zhihong
Published: December 2022

Optical coherence tomography-based angiography (OCTA) has attracted attention in clinical applications as a non-invasive and high-resolution imaging modality. Motion artifacts are the most seen artifact in OCTA. Eigen-decomposition (ED) algorithms are popular choices for OCTA reconstruction, but have limitations in the reduction of motion artifacts. The OCTA data do not meet one of the requirements of ED, which is that the data should be normally distributed. To overcome this drawback, we propose an easy-to-deploy development of ED, windowed-ED (wED). wED applies a moving window to the input data, which can contrast the blood-flow signals with significantly reduced motion artifacts. To evaluate our wED algorithm, pre-acquired dorsal wound healing data in a murine model were used. The ideal window size was optimized by fitting the data distribution with the normal distribution. Lastly, the cross-sectional and en face results were compared among several OCTA reconstruction algorithms, Speckle Variance, A-scan ED (aED), B-scan ED, and wED. wED could reduce the background noise intensity by 18% and improve PSNR by 4.6%, compared to the second best-performed algorithm, aED. This study can serve as a guide for utilizing wED to reconstruct OCTA images with an optimized window size.
Dexterous Object Manipulation with an Anthropomorphic Robot Hand via Natural Hand Pose Transformer and Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Lopez Patricio Rivera , Oh Ji-Heon , Jeong Jin Gyun , Jung Hwanseok , Lee Jin Hyuk , Jaramillo Ismael Espinoza , Chola Channabasava , Lee Won Hee , Kim Tae-Seong
Published: December 2022

Dexterous object manipulation using anthropomorphic robot hands is of great interest for natural object manipulations across the areas of healthcare, smart homes, and smart factories. Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) is a particularly promising approach to solving dexterous manipulation tasks with five-fingered robot hands. Yet, controlling an anthropomorphic robot hand via DRL in order to obtain natural, human-like object manipulation with high dexterity remains a challenging task in the current robotic field. Previous studies have utilized some predefined human hand poses to control the robot hand’s movements for successful object-grasping. However, the hand poses derived from these grasping taxonomies are limited to a partial range of adaptability that could be performed by the robot hand. In this work, we propose a combinatory approach of a deep transformer network which produces a wider range of natural hand poses to configure the robot hand’s movements, and an adaptive DRL to control the movements of an anthropomorphic robot hand according to these natural hand poses. The transformer network learns and infers the natural robot hand poses according to the object affordance. Then, DRL trains a policy using the transformer output to grasp and relocate the object to the designated target location. Our proposed transformer-based DRL (T-DRL) has been tested using various objects, such as an apple, a banana, a light bulb, a camera, a hammer, and a bottle. Additionally, its performance is compared with a baseline DRL model via natural policy gradient (NPG). The results demonstrate that our T-DRL achieved an average manipulation success rate of 90.1% for object manipulation and outperformed NPG by 24.8%.
Intelligent-Reflecting-Surface-Assisted Multicasting with Joint Beamforming and Phase Adjustment
Authors: Hwang Duckdong , Nam Sung Sik , Yang Janghoon , Song Hyoung-Kyu
Published: December 2022

In this paper, a set of transmission schemes are proposed for the delivery of multicast (MC) signals, in which an intelligent reflecting surface (IRS) assists the transmission from an access point (AP) to a set of multicast users. It is known that the large number of IRS reflecting elements have the potential to improve the transmission efficiency by forming an artificial signal path with strong channel gain. However, the joint optimization of the AP beamformer and the phases of the IRS reflecting elements is challenging due to the non-convex nature of the phase elements as well as the high computational complexity required for a large number of elements. A set composed of two AP beamformer schemes and a set with two IRS phase adjustment algorithms are proposed, which are sub-optimal but less computationally demanding. A semi-definite relaxation (SDR)-based scheme is considered along with a least squares (LS) based one for the AP beamformer design. For the IRS phase adjustment, an LS based optimization and a grouping method for the phase elements are suggested. From these two sets, four combinations of overall optimization can be built, and their performances can be compared with their merits and weaknesses revealed. The signal-to-interference-plus-noise power ratio (SINR) performance results are verified in various parameter conditions by simulation.
A Novel Disturbance Rejection Control of Roll Channel for Small Air-to-Surface Missiles
Authors: Ding Xiaomiao , Hu Yanpeng , Jia Ruilong , Guo Jin
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the issue of roll channel for attitude control for small air-to-surface missiles suffering from multiple disturbances is investigated. The dynamic model of roll channel is established and the roll controller of roll channel based on the active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) is designed. Based on the extended state observer, the disturbance is observed and compensated to track the roll rate accurately. Then, simulations and verification are carried out for rudder efficiency, barycenter location deviation, steering gear stuck, wind disturbance, drift error of inertial measurement unit (IMU) and other disturbances. The control effect is also compared with proportional integral derivative (PID) control and other ADRC algorithms. The results demonstrate that the algorithm has a good ability to suppress multiple disturbances. It can meet the control performance requirements of small air-to-surface missiles.
A Scalable Earth Observation Service to Map Land Cover in Geomorphological Complex Areas beyond the Dynamic World: An Application in Aosta Valley (NW Italy)
Authors: Orusa Tommaso , Cammareri Duke , Borgogno Mondino Enrico
Published: December 2022

Earth Observation services guarantee continuous land cover mapping and are becoming of great interest worldwide. The Google Earth Engine Dynamic World represents a planetary example. This work aims to develop a land cover mapping service in geomorphological complex areas in the Aosta Valley in NW Italy, according to the newest European EAGLE legend starting in the year 2020. Sentinel-2 data were processed in the Google Earth Engine, particularly the summer yearly median composite for each band and their standard deviation with multispectral indexes, which were used to perform a k-nearest neighbor classification. To better map some classes, a minimum distance classification involving NDVI and NDRE yearly filtered and regularized stacks were computed to map the agronomical classes. Furthermore, SAR Sentinel-1 SLC data were processed in the SNAP to map urban and water surfaces to improve optical classification. Additionally, deep learning and GIS updated datasets involving urban components were adopted beginning with an aerial orthophoto. GNSS ground truth data were used to define the training and the validation sets. In order to test the effectiveness of the implemented service and its methodology, the overall accuracy was compared to other approaches. A mixed hierarchical approach represented the best solution to effectively map geomorphological complex areas to overcome the remote sensing limitations. In conclusion, this service may help in the implementation of European and local policies concerning land cover surveys both at high spatial and temporal resolutions, empowering the technological transfer in alpine realities.
Study on Characteristic Strength and Constitutive Model of Red Sandstone under Hydraulic Coupling
Authors: Li Xinwei , Yao Zhishu , Huang Xianwen , Liu Xiaohu , Wang Xuesong
Published: December 2022

The newly built shaft in the western region needs to pass through the deep Cretaceous stratum, where the pores and fissures are developed, the cementation ability is poor, and the surrounding rock is rich in water. Under the coupling effect of the stress field and seepage field, the surrounding rock is easy to deteriorate and loses stability. The hydraulic coupling test of Cretaceous red sandstone was carried out by using the TAW-2000 rock mechanics testing system, and the characteristic strength evolution law of red sandstone was analyzed; Mohr’s circle and strength envelope were obtained by the M–C criterion, and the influence mechanism seepage pressure on red sandstone was explored; and combined with the effective stress principle and M–C strength criterion, a constitutive model under hydraulic coupling was established. Confining pressure limits the development of cracks and strengthens the mechanical properties. The results revealed that red sandstone has the characteristics of low less clay, loose particles, and weak cementation capacity; under the action of water pressure, the cement between particles disintegrates and loses the cementation strength, resulting in a significant decrease in cohesion, and the loss of cementation strength is the internal reason for the softening of red sandstone. The constitutive model based on the effective principle and M–C criterion can better reflect the mechanical behavior of red sandstone under hydraulic coupling. This paper provides a research basis for understanding the microscopic characteristics and hydraulic coupling characteristics of Cretaceous weakly cemented sandstone.
Towards Innovative Solutions for Monitoring Precipitation in Poorly Instrumented Regions: Real-Time System for Collecting Power Levels of Microwave Links of Mobile Phone Operators for Rainfall Quantification in Burkina Faso
Authors: Djibo Moumouni , Ouedraogo Wend Yam Serge Boris , Doumounia Ali , Sanou Serge Roland , Sawadogo Moumouni , Guira Idrissa , Koné Nicolas , Chwala Christian , Kunstmann Harald , Zougmoré François
Published: December 2022

Since the 1990s, mobile telecommunication networks have gradually become denser around the world. Nowadays, large parts of their backhaul network consist of commercial microwave links (CMLs). Since CML signals are attenuated by rainfall, the exploitation of records of this attenuation is an innovative and an inexpensive solution for precipitation monitoring purposes. Performance data from mobile operators’ networks are crucial for the implementation of this technology. Therefore, a real-time system for collecting and storing CML power levels from the mobile phone operator “Telecel Faso” in Burkina Faso has been implemented. This new acquisition system, which uses the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), can simultaneously record the transmitted and received power levels from all the CMLs to which it has access, with a time resolution of one minute. Installed at “Laboratoire des Matériaux et Environnement de l’Université Joseph KI-ZERBO (Burkina Faso)”, this acquisition system is dynamic and has gradually grown from eight, in 2019, to more than 1000 radio links of Telecel Faso’s network in 2021. The system covers the capital Ouagadougou and the main cities of Burkina Faso (Bobo Dioulasso, Ouahigouya, Koudougou, and Kaya) as well as the axes connecting Ouagadougou to these cities.
Tandem Recurrence Relations for Coefficients of Logarithmic Frobenius Series Solutions about Regular Singular Points
Authors: van der Toorn Ramses
Published: December 2022

We enhance Frobenius’ method for solving linear ordinary differential equations about regular singular points. Key to Frobenius’ approach is the exploration of the derivative with respect to a single parameter; this parameter is introduced through the powers of generalized power series. Extending this approach, we discover that tandem recurrence relations can be derived. These relations render coefficients for series occurring in logarithmic solutions. The method applies to the, practically important, exceptional cases in which the roots of the indicial equation are equal, or differ by a non-zero integer. We demonstrate the method on Bessel’s equation and derive previously unknown tandem recurrence relations for coefficients of solutions of the second kind, for Bessel equations of all integer and half-integer order.
On the Algebraic Independence of the Values of Functions Associated with Hypergeometric Functions
Authors: Gorelov Vasily
Published: December 2022

Functions that are integrals of products of generalized hypergeometric functions of some kind are considered. The conditions for the representability of these functions as a polynomial in hypergeometric ones are found. The necessary and sufficient conditions for the algebraic independence of such functions are established.
Carbon-Based Materials for Supercapacitors: Recent Progress, Challenges and Barriers
Authors: Olabi Abdul Ghani , Abbas Qaisar , Abdelkareem Mohammad Ali , Alami Abdul Hai , Mirzaeian Mojtaba , Sayed Enas Taha
Published: December 2022

Swift developments in electronic devices and future transportation/energy production directions have forced researchers to develop new and contemporary devices with higher power capacities, extended cycle lives, and superior energy densities. Supercapacitors are promising devices with excellent power densities and exceptionally long cycle lives. However, commercially available supercapacitors, which commonly use high-surface-area carbon-based electrodes and organic solutions as electrolytes, suffer from inferior energy densities due to the limited accessibility of surface area and constrained operating potential window of electrolytes. To address the issue of inferior energy densities, new high-capacity electrode materials and new/state-of-the-art electrolytes, such as ionic liquids, gel polymers, or even solid-state electrolytes, have been developed and evaluated vigorously in recent years. In this brief review, different types of supercapacitors, according to their charge storage mechanisms, have been discussed in detail. Since carbon-based active materials are the key focus of this review, synthesis parameters, such as carbonisation, activation, and functionalisation, which can impact a material’s physiochemical characteristics, ultimately affecting the performance of supercapacitors, are also discussed. Finally, the synthesis and applications of different carbon-based materials, i.e., carbon nanotubes, graphene, and activated carbon, have been reviewed, followed by conclusions and outlook.
Spatially Offset Raman Spectroscopy for Characterization of a Solid-State System
Authors: Jaime-Barquero Edurne , Zhang Yan , Drewett Nicholas E. , López-Aranguren Pedro , Zulueta Ekaitz , Bekaert Emilie
Published: December 2022

Solid-state batteries represent a promising technology in the field of high-energy-density and safe storage systems. Improving the understanding of how defects form within these cells would greatly facilitate future development, which would be best served by applying nondestructive analytical tools capable of characterization of the key components and their changes during cycling and/or aging. Spatially offset Raman spectroscopy (SORS) represents a potentially useful technique, but currently there is a lack of knowledge regarding its use in this field. To fill this gap, we present an investigation into the use of simple defocused micro-SORS on systems constructed using typical components found within solid-state cells. By analyzing the constituents and the assembled system, it was possible to obtain depth profiling spectra and show that spectra may be obtained from layers which are normally obscured, demonstrating the technique’s potential for nondestructive chemical analysis of the subsurface. In this way, the results presented validate the potential of micro-SORS as a technique to develop to support future solid-state battery development, as well as the nondestructive battery analytical field.
Stem Cell Therapy for Acute/Subacute Ischemic Stroke with a Focus on Intraarterial Stem Cell Transplantation: From Basic Research to Clinical Trials
Authors: Yamaguchi Susumu , Yoshida Michiharu , Horie Nobutaka , Satoh Katsuya , Fukuda Yuutaka , Ishizaka Shunsuke , Ogawa Koki , Morofuji Yoichi , Hiu Takeshi , Izumo Tsuyoshi , Kawakami Shigeru , Nishida Noriyuki , Matsuo Takayuki
Published: December 2022

Stem cell therapy for ischemic stroke holds great promise for the treatment of neurological impairment and has moved from the laboratory into early clinical trials. The mechanism of action of stem cell therapy includes the bystander effect and cell replacement. The bystander effect plays an important role in the acute to subacute phase, and cell replacement plays an important role in the subacute to chronic phase. Intraarterial (IA) transplantation is less invasive than intraparenchymal transplantation and can provide more cells in the affected brain region than intravenous transplantation. However, transplanted cell migration was reported to be insufficient, and few transplanted cells were retained in the brain for an extended period. Therefore, the bystander effect was considered the main mechanism of action of IA stem cell transplantation. In most clinical trials, IA transplantation was performed during the acute and subacute phases. Although clinical trials of IA transplantation demonstrated safety, they did not demonstrate satisfactory efficacy in improving patient outcomes. To increase efficacy, increased migration of transplanted cells and production of long surviving and effective stem cells would be crucial. Given the lack of knowledge on this subject, we review and summarize the mechanisms of action of transplanted stem cells and recent advancements in preclinical and clinical studies to provide information and guidance for further advancement of acute/subacute phase IA stem cell transplantation therapy for ischemic stroke.
Recent Advances in Phage-Based Therapeutics for Multi-Drug Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Tan Yujing , Su Jianhui , Fu Minghui , Zhang Hongmei , Zeng Haiyan
Published: December 2022

Acinetobacter baumannii is an important opportunistic pathogen common in clinical infections. Phage therapy become a hot research field worldwide again after the post-antibiotic era. This review summarizes the important progress of phage treatments for A. baumannii in the last five years, and focus on the new interesting advances including the combination of phage and other substances (like photosensitizer), and the phage encapsulation (by microparticle, hydrogel) in delivery. We also discuss the remaining challenges and promising directions for phage-based therapy of A. baumannii infection in the future, and the innovative combination of materials in this area may be one promising direction.
Hemp Protein Hydrolysates Modulate Inflammasome-Related Genes in Microglial Cells
Authors: Montserrat-de la Paz Sergio , Carrillo-Berdasco Gabriela , Rivero-Pino Fernando , Villanueva-Lazo Alvaro , Millan-Linares Maria C.
Published: December 2022

A prolonged inflammatory response can lead to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Enzymatic hydrolysis is a sustainable way to increase the value of protein sources by obtaining peptides that can exert bioactivity. Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) protein hydrolysates have been proven to exert anti-inflammatory activity. In this study, two hemp protein hydrolysate (HPHs), obtained with Alcalase as sole catalyst, or with Alcalase followed by Flavourzyme, were evaluated as inflammatory mediators (TNFα, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10), microglial polarization markers (Ccr7, iNos, Arg1, and Ym1), and genes related to inflammasome activation (Nlrp3, Asc, Casp1, and Il18), employing the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation model in murine BV-2 microglial cells. A significant decrease of the expression of proinflammatory genes (e.g., Tnfα, Ccr7, inos, and Nlrp3, among others) and increase of the expression anti-inflammatory cytokines in microglial cells was observed after treatment with the test HPHs. This result in the cell model suggests a polarization toward an anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype. Our results show that the evaluated HPHs show potential neuroprotective activity in microglial cells via the inflammasome.
Diverse Response Pattern to Anoxia in Three Freshwater Turtle Species
Authors: Li Min , Niu Cuijuan , Chen Yixuan
Published: December 2022

With increasing water eutrophication and global warming, anoxia and hypoxia are becoming more and more common in water environments. Most vertebrates have a limited tolerance to anoxia of only a few minutes, but some species, such as turtles, can survive for months being exposed to anoxia. Antioxidant defense systems may have a potential role in resisting anoxia stress in freshwater turtles. The three-keeled pond turtle Chinemys reevesii, the snapping turtle Chelydra serpentina and the soft-shelled turtle Pelodiscus sinensis are three popular aquaculture species and share similar habitats in China. While C. reevesii and C. serpentina are hard-shelled turtles with poor skin permeability, P. sinensis is soft-shelled turtle whose skin permeability is good. We examined the antioxidant defense responses in different tissues of the three turtle species under acute anoxia stress for 10 h and subsequently recovered for 24 h in order to reveal the response patterns of the antioxidant defense system of the three turtle species that differed in morphological structure and life history strategy. We found that the antioxidant response patterns to acute anoxia stress were tissue- and species-specific. The soft-shelled turtle was more sensitive to anoxia than the hard-shelled turtles. Under anoxia stress, the three species kept the activities of most antioxidant enzymes stable. C. reevesii and P. sinensis were highly dependent on vitamin C in antioxidant defense, while high activities of structural antioxidant enzymes were found in the tissues of C. serpentina. The above diverse patterns may be related with adaptive evolution of morphological structure and physiological functions of the three turtle species.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1 and Mitochondria: An Intimate Connection
Authors: Huang Xiaochen , Zhao Li , Peng Ruiyun
Published: December 2022

The general objective of the review is to explain the interaction between HIF-1 and mitochondria. On the one hand, this review describes the effects of HIF-1 on mitochondrial structure, including quantity, distribution, and morphology, as well as on mitochondrial metabolism and respiratory function. On the other hand, various factors, including mitochondrial activation of enzymes, the respiratory chain, complex and decoupling proteins, affect the stability and activity of HIF-1. It is possible to develop future molecular therapeutic interventions by understanding the interrelationships between HIF-1 and mitochondria.
Novel Set of Diarylmethanes to Target Colorectal Cancer: Synthesis, In Vitro and In Silico Studies
Authors: Hadj Mohamed Ameni , Pinon Aline , Lagarde Nathalie , Goya Jorge Elizabeth , Mouhsine Hadley , Msaddek Moncef , Liagre Bertrand , Sylla-Iyarreta Veitía Maité
Published: December 2022

Distinctive structural, chemical, and physical properties make the diarylmethane scaffold an essential constituent of many active biomolecules nowadays used in pharmaceutical, agrochemical, and material sciences. In this work, 33 novel diarylmethane molecules aiming to target colorectal cancer were designed. Two series of functionalized olefinic and aryloxy diarylmethanes were synthesized and chemically characterized. The synthetic strategy of olefinic diarylmethanes involved a McMurry cross-coupling reaction as key step and the synthesis of aryloxy diarylmethanes included an O-arylation step. A preliminarily screening in human colorectal cancer cells (HT-29 and HCT116) and murine primary fibroblasts (L929) allowed the selection, for more detailed analyses, of the three best candidates (10a, 10b and 12a) based on their high inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and non-toxic effects on murine fibroblasts (<100 µM). The anticancer potential of these diarylmethane compounds was then assessed using apoptotic (phospho-p38) and anti-apoptotic (phospho-ERK, phospho-Akt) cell survival signaling pathways, by analyzing the DNA fragmentation capacity, and through the caspase-3 and PARP cleavage pro-apoptotic markers. Compound 12a (2-(1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) vinyl) pyridine, Z isomer) was found to be the most active molecule. The binding mode to five biological targets (i.e., AKT, ERK-1 and ERK-2, PARP, and caspase-3) was explored using molecular modeling, and AKT was identified as the most interesting target. Finally, compounds 10a, 10b and 12a were predicted to have appropriate drug-likeness and good Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism and Excretion (ADME) profiles.
Advances and Innovations of 3D Bioprinting Skin
Authors: Kang Moon Sung , Jang Jinju , Jo Hyo Jung , Kim Won-Hyeon , Kim Bongju , Chun Heoung-Jae , Lim Dohyung , Han Dong-Wook
Published: December 2022

Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinted skin equivalents are highlighted as the new gold standard for alternative models to animal testing, as well as full-thickness wound healing. In this review, we focus on the advances and innovations of 3D bioprinting skin for skin regeneration, within the last five years. After a brief introduction to skin anatomy, 3D bioprinting methods and the remarkable features of recent studies are classified as advances in materials, structures, and functions. We will discuss several ways to improve the clinical potential of 3D bioprinted skin, with state-of-the-art printing technology and novel biomaterials. After the breakthrough in the bottleneck of the current studies, highly developed skin can be fabricated, comprising stratified epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis with blood vessels, nerves, muscles, and skin appendages. We hope that this review will be priming water for future research and clinical applications, that will guide us to break new ground for the next generation of skin regeneration.
Functional Gene Expression Signatures from On-Treatment Tumor Specimens Predict Anti-PD1 Blockade Response in Metastatic Melanoma
Authors: Chen Shuzhao , Zhang Limei , Lin Haocheng , Liang Yang , Wang Yun
Published: December 2022

Functional gene expression signatures (FGES) from pretreatment biopsy samples have been used to predict the responses of metastatic melanoma to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies. However, there are no predictive FGE signatures from patients receiving treatment. Here, using the Elastic Net Regression (ENLR) algorithm, we analyzed transcriptomic and matching clinical data from a dataset of patients with metastatic melanoma treated with ICB therapies and produced an FGE signature for pretreatment (FGES-PRE) and on-treatment (FGES-ON). Both the FGES-PRE and FGES-ON signatures are validated in three independent datasets of metastatic melanoma as the validation set, achieving area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.44–0.81 and 0.82–0.83, respectively. Then, we combined all test samples and obtained AUCs of 0.71 and 0.82 for the FGES-PRE and FGES-ON signatures, respectively. The FGES-ON signatures had a higher predictive value for prognosis than the FGES-PRE signatures. The FGES-PRE and FGES-ON signatures were divided into high- and low-risk scores using the signature score mean value. Patients with a high FGE signature score had better survival outcomes than those with low scores. Overall, we determined that the FGES-ON signature is an effective biomarker for metastatic melanoma patients receiving ICB therapy. This work would provide an important theoretical basis for applying FGE signatures derived from on-treatment tumor samples to predict patients’ therapeutic response to ICB therapies.