bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-of-the-Art 800 V Electric Drive Systems: Inverter–Machine Codesign for Energy Efficiency Optimization
Authors: Kwak Jaedon , Castellazzi Alberto
Published: July 2023

This paper introduces a state-of-the-art inverter–machine codesign methodology for achieving an energy-efficient electric drive system. The methodology is applied in an optimal design case study with the context of the latest trend in the 800 V system. To reduce the voltage rating, a three-level active neutral point clamped topology is utilized in the inverter design, incorporating silicon carbide technology for high-speed operation. This combination allows for efficient power conversion with reduced losses. In the machine design, the increased number of poles that can be achieved in the design phase, along with the utilization of high-speed switching frequencies, enables the development of more efficient machines. Based on the design of the experiment method, by optimizing the parameters of both the inverter and machine simultaneously, using a cosimulation model, the 7.7% of total energy loss during drive cycle operation can be improved.
Assessing Biases through Visual Contexts
Authors: Arias-Duart Anna , Gimenez-Abalos Victor , Cortés Ulises , Garcia-Gasulla Dario
Published: July 2023

Bias detection in the computer vision field is a necessary task, to achieve fair models. These biases are usually due to undesirable correlations present in the data and learned by the model. Although explainability can be a way to gain insights into model behavior, reviewing explanations is not straightforward. This work proposes a methodology to analyze the model biases without using explainability. By doing so, we reduce the potential noise arising from explainability methods, and we minimize human noise during the analysis of explanations. The proposed methodology combines images of the original distribution with images of potential context biases and analyzes the effect produced in the model’s output. For this work, we first presented and released three new datasets generated by diffusion models. Next, we used the proposed methodology to analyze the context impact on the model’s prediction. Finally, we verified the reliability of the proposed methodology and the consistency of its results. We hope this tool will help practitioners to detect and mitigate potential biases, allowing them to obtain more reliable models.
A Q-Band CMOS Image-Rejection Receiver Integrated with LO and Frequency Dividers
Authors: Lee Hyunkyu , Jeon Sanggeun
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a Q-band image-rejection receiver using a 65 nm CMOS technology. For a high image-rejection ratio (IMRR), the Q-band receiver employs the Hartley architecture which consists of a Q-band low-noise amplifier, two down-conversion mixers, a 90° hybrid coupler, and two IF baluns. In addition, a Q-band fundamental voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) and a frequency divider chain divided by 256 are integrated into the receiver for LO. A charge injection technique is employed in the mixers to reduce the DC power while maintaining a high conversion gain and linearity. The VCO adopts a cross-coupled topology to secure stable oscillation with high output power in the Q-band. The frequency divider chain is composed of an injection-locked frequency divider (ILFD) and a multi-stage current-mode logic (CML) divider to achieve a high division ratio of 256, which facilitates the LO signal locking to an external phase-locked loop. An inductive peaking is employed in the ILFD to widen the locking range. The Q-band image-rejection receiver exhibits a peak conversion gain of 16.4 dB at 43 GHz. The IMRR is no less than 35.6 dBc at the IF frequencies from 1.5 to 5 GHz.
An Exploratory Study on the Development of a Crisis Index: Focusing on South Korea’s Petroleum Industry
Authors: Park Kyungbo , Kim Hangook , Cha Jeonghwa
Published: July 2023

Industrial crises exert considerable influence on a wide range of industries, national economies, and global economic landscapes. The primary objective of this study is to devise a crisis index specifically tailored for the petroleum sector—a vital component of South Korea’s energy industry. An exhaustive analysis of the existing literature was conducted to extract pertinent elements and indicators, and indicator weights were determined using the analytic network process (ANP). Moreover, a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was employed to rigorously evaluate the validity of the proposed crisis index. The implications derived from this study offer critical insights for stakeholders into the petroleum industry and demonstrate the potential applicability of a crisis index framework for other industries.
An Overview on Reversible Sea Return Electrodes for HVDC Links
Authors: Brignone Massimo , Marzinotto Massimo , Mestriner Daniele , Nervi Mario , Molfino Paolo
Published: July 2023

HVDC electrodes are usually implemented in HVDC links to avoid the installation of a metallic return. Submarine cables, especially those dealing with lengths of thousands of kilometers, are expensive, and high costs of laying are normally expected. Due to the high number of reversible HVDC links, the marine electrodes must be able to withstand both anodic and cathodic operations, which leads to careful considerations in terms of the material to be used. This paper shows the state of the art of the currently installed reversible sea return electrodes, focusing on the type of installation (sea, shore or pond electrodes) and on the material used, from the first plant installed in 1954 up to the more recent ones established during the XXI century. All reported data derive from publicly available sources. Moreover, since nowadays environmental issues are among the most important topics, for each material and for each type of installation, a guideline on the possible interferences caused by marine electrodes with the surrounding environment is proposed.
Double-Circuit Adaptive System of Fuzzy Phase-Autonomous and Energy-Efficient Control of Arc Furnace Electric Modes
Authors: Paranchuk Yaroslav , Lis Marek
Published: July 2023

The article provides an overview of the existing structures of fuzzy model systems for arc length control and optimal control of arc steel-melting furnaces (ASFs) electrical mode. The analysis of known adaptive optimal control strategies of alternating current steel-melting arc furnaces modes according to complex criteria of energy efficiency, energy saving and reliability was performed. Expedient system engineering solutions are proposed for the comprehensive improvement of energy efficiency and electromagnetic compatibility of arc furnaces and the power grid, which are implemented by improving automatic power and arc length control systems. Control principles, indicators of arc length control dynamics, energy efficiency and electromagnetic compatibility of various systems are analyzed. The expediency of using fuzzy control models for comprehensive improvement of dynamics, energy efficiency and electromagnetic compatibility indicators is substantiated. The expediency of implementing simultaneous phase-independent control of arc lengths and fast-acting arc currents control is substantiated. A variant of the double-circuit structure of fuzzy arc lengths control system and implementation of the multi-criteria optimal control strategy of electrical modes (EM) is proposed. The design of fuzzy inference systems for the synthesis of the electrode movement control signal was carried out in order to improve the dynamic accuracy of the ASF electrical mode coordinates stabilization. A computer Simulink model of the developed double-circuit system was created, and studies of the dynamics and energy efficiency indicators when handling deterministic and random perturbations were performed. The obtained results of model studies showed an improvement of the control dynamics quality indicators under the influence of deterministic and random perturbations and an increase in the energy efficiency of ASF EM at various technological stages of melting. The expediency of the practical use of the proposed solutions for operating arc furnaces is substantiated.
Influence of Water Ingress on Surface Discharges Occurring on the Silicone Gel Encapsulated Printed Circuit Boards Developed for Deep-Sea Applications
Authors: Arumugam Saravanakumar , Haba Yvonne , Pieterse Petrus Jacobus , Uhrlandt Dirk , Kosleck Sascha
Published: July 2023

This paper discusses the influence of water ingress on the electrical discharges that arise on the surface of printed circuit boards that are developed for deep sea applications. The primary concern is the electrical discharges arising on the surface of the PCB bridging localized spots/areas between conductive traces, high voltage terminal, mounting hole options, and so on. The current literature focuses on electrical discharges arising on the surface of PCB at low-pressure environments emulating aircraft and space applications. Extending the same approach to deep-sea environments is not feasible since the pressure is very high and the temperatures are very low. In all, a meager attempt has been made to investigate the possible application of such gel-encapsulated PCBs in adverse high-pressure, salt/sea water, low-temperature, deep-sea environments. This experimental study focuses on studying the influence of deionized and sea water on electrical discharges arising on the surface, between conductive tracks of PCB. A group of PCBs with different gaps between the conductive tracks was produced and immersed in deionized and seawater for a specific duration at standard pressure. Afterward, the discharge characteristics were measured the using partial discharge (PD) test method and the respective phase-resolved PD pattern was studied and analyzed. Pertinent experiments revealed that the PD process and eventual failure manifests as a typical and substantial pattern. The apparent charge measured during the PD inception and near-by failure condition, influenced by deionized and seawater, reveals a regular trend. Naturally, a simple observation of the PD pattern might help to identify the intricacy and to initiate a preventive measure well before the complete system suffers a premature failure. Also, based on these results, making slight structural modifications on the PCB at crucial locations might help in retaining the dielectric integrity of the material.
A Health-Aware Energy Storage Sharing Mechanism for a Renewable Energy Base
Authors: Shao Chong , Zhang Bolin , Wei Bo , Liu Wenfei , Yang Yong , Wu Zhaoyuan
Published: July 2023

With the increasing global demand for renewable energy (RE), the growing share of new energy sources has become an inevitable trend. However, due to the uncertainty and fluctuation of renewable energy generation, this poses challenges to the stability of the power system. To mitigate the volatility of wind power output, ensure reliable power supply, and improve energy storage utilization, shared energy storage (SES) can be deployed in renewable energy bases (REBs) to alleviate the pressure on the power supply. However, electrochemical energy storage (EES) faces issues such as lifespan degradation and maintenance cost allocation. In this regard, this paper establishes an EES characterization model considering the dynamic degradation characteristics of batteries and analyzes the coupled relationship between lifespan degradation laws and key parameters in SES operation. Additionally, to assess the impact of electrochemical energy storage’s dynamic degradation characteristics on energy capacity allocation and operational strategies, an optimization model for SES in REBs is developed. Building upon this, a cost allocation mechanism is designed based on the marginal contribution in both the day-ahead and the real-time markets to address the differing demands for SES among different units within the REBs. Case studies are conducted to validate the rationality of the proposed optimization model for SES in REBs and the adaptability of the cost allocation mechanism. The results provide valuable insights for practical applications.
Stakeholder Perspectives on Energy Auctions: A Case Study in Roraima, Brazil
Authors: Villas-Bôas Pedro Meirelles , Jardim da Silveira José Maria Ferreira , Villas-Bôas Fernando Rocha
Published: July 2023

Energy auctions are commonly used to contract energy projects and are extensively studied from the regulator’s perspective. However, analyzing auctions from the stakeholders’ perspective is critical to determine the impact of regulatory details on the bidder’s revenues. In this study, we analyze a public energy auction in Roraima, a Brazilian state with a significant energy deficit and no grid connection, where many projects were successful in the non-intermittent Power Product category, typically unfavorable for biomass. Using Linear Programming to maximize bidders’ revenues, we examine the regulatory formulas that contributed to the success of these projects and compare the optimization results to actual revenues. Our analysis shows that certain regulatory elements can benefit stakeholders by allowing them to make unconventional project design decisions. In addition, we identify a possible loophole in the formula that can have the opposite effect of the regulator’s intent in the renewable Power Product category. Our findings can help bidders increase profits through optimization and regulators to change formulas if objectives are not met. This study brings the often-overlooked perspective of stakeholders to energy auctions, adding to the literature on this topic.
Optical Modelling of a Linear Fresnel Concentrator for the Development of a Spectral Splitting Concentrating Photovoltaic Thermal Receiver
Authors: Resch Alois , Höller Robert
Published: July 2023

Concentrating photovoltaic thermal (CPVT) solar collectors can be regarded as a promising technology, as they are capable of providing renewable electricity and industrial heat simultaneously. The development of a novel CPVT receiver for a linear Fresnel concentrator requires detailed knowledge about the optical performance of the utilised mirror field. Therefore, this paper presents a generic optical model for such concentrating solar systems. The model was developed in MATLAB™ and calculates the sun’s position depending on the location, date and time. The subsequent geometrical computation of each mirror stripe angle is the basis for the detailed consideration of internal shading mechanisms that are typical for Fresnel mirror concentrators. Furthermore, the cosine losses are determined separately for each mirror. The outcomes of the developed model comprise the optical performance parameters of the considered Fresnel mirror field, such as the geometric efficiency, resulting irradiance in the receiver input plane, expected width of the focus image, concentration factor and total radiant flux impinging the receiver. Due to the chosen design of the model, its application is not limited to a particular kind of Fresnel concentrator. By contrast, all geometric parameters, such as the number of mirrors, the dimensions of the mirrors and the receiver, among others, can be freely adjusted.
August Temperature Reconstruction Based on Tree-Ring Latewood Blue Intensity in the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Li Teng , Li Jinbao
Published: July 2023

Tree-ring blue intensity (BI) has been widely applied for temperature reconstructions in many regions around the globe. However, it remains untested in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau (TP) where a large number of ancient trees are distributed. In this study, we developed earlywood blue intensity (EWBI), latewood blue intensity (LWBI), and delta blue intensity (ΔBI) chronologies based on tree-ring samples collected from Abies spectabilis at two sites in the southeastern TP. Our results reveal that the EWBI and ΔBI chronologies correlated negatively with temperature parameters and LWBI chronology correlated positively with temperature parameters, respectively. Among them, the LWBI chronology was identified most suitable for reconstructing the mean temperature in August. A linear regression model was developed for the August temperature reconstruction, which accounts for 34.31% of the observed variance in the period of 1954–2017. The reconstruction, spanning 1789–2017, is highly consistent with other tree-rings based temperature reconstructions from the neighboring regions. Our findings reveal a potential linkage between the August temperature anomaly in the southeastern TP and the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO), which suggests that the AMO fingerprint in the region is not just evident in winter but also in summer.
Spatial Zoning of the Value Realization Models for Ecological Products in Shibing Karst Natural World Heritage Site
Authors: Zhang Zhenzhen , Xiong Kangning , Huang Denghong , Zhang Wenxiu , Chang Huanhuan
Published: July 2023

Natural World Heritage properties provide humanity with a rich and diverse range of ecological products, and the realization of their economic value is related to heritage protection and the improvement of community residents’ well-being. In this study, the equivalent factor method was used to calculate the ecological product value (EPV), and the fishnet tool in ArcGIS was used for spatial zoning. The main land use type of the study area is forest land, accounting for over 82% of the total area. The conversion of land use types is weak in the property and strong in the buffer zone. The EPV of the study area was about USD 172.41 million, showing a downward trend before World Heritage inscription but an upward trend after the inscription, with forests as the main contributor. The spatial distribution of the ecosystem service value of the study area has obvious hierarchical characteristics. World Heritage inscription is beneficial for maintaining the stability of land use and for the improvement of the EPV of the property. The high- and low-EPV areas, respectively, are related to the distribution of forests and agricultural land. The dominant models of EPV in the study area are ecological forestry economy, water economy, and ecological agricultural economy.
Friend or Foe? The Endophytic Fungus Alternaria tenuissima Might Be a Major Latent Pathogen Involved in Ginkgo Leaf Blight
Authors: Su Xiaojia , Shi Ruirui , Li Xiaobo , Yu Zine , Hu Linfeng , Hu Haiyan , Zhang Meng , Chang Jingling , Li Chengwei
Published: July 2023

Ginkgo leaf blight, one of the most economically important ginkgo diseases, has become very prevalent in many places in China. Flavonoids and endophytes are both considered important in ginkgo plant functioning. However, little is known about the potential relationships among ginkgo leaf blight pathogens, flavonoid accumulation profiles in infected leaves, and ginkgo leaf endophytes. In this study, the flavonoid accumulation profiles in infected leaves, pathogens of ginkgo leaf blight, and the endophytes of healthy ginkgo leaves were characterized. The levels of total flavonoids in the healthy parts of the infected leaves were significantly higher than those in the healthy leaves. Furthermore, Alternaria tenuissima, Botryosphaeria dothidea, and Dothiorella gregaria were identified as pathogens of ginkgo leaf blight; among them, A. tenuissima was the major pathogen. The in vitro experiments showed that flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol) could significantly inhibit the growth of one or more pathogens at a concentration of 10 mg/L. Furthermore, fifty-six ginkgo leaf endophytic fungi (GLEF) from healthy ginkgo plants were isolated and characterized. Among them, Alternaria spp. were the most abundant, and GLEF55 shared the same ITS sequence with the pathogen Alternaria tenuissima. Thereafter, four flavonoid-producing endophytes were selected and their effects on the growth of pathogens were evaluated. The extracts of GLEF55 could significantly inhibit the growth of the pathogens B. dothidea and D. gregaria simultaneously in vitro, but not the growth of the pathogen A. tenuissima. Furthermore, the dual cultures of the candidate GLEF and ginkgo leaf blight pathogens revealed that GLEF55 had a similar growth rate to that of A. tenuissima and D. gregaria, but its growth rate was significantly slower than that of B. dothidea. Finally, the GLEF exhibited variable roles when facing pathogens in ginkgo leaves. Among them, GLEF55 showed similar pathogenicity as the pathogen A. tenuissima when they were dually cultured in ginkgo leaves. By contrast, GLEF17 (an uncultured soil fungus) could significantly counteract the pathogenic effects of A. tenuissima and D. gregaria, but it dramatically exacerbated the pathogenic effects of B. dothidea. Larger lesion areas were observed on the side of ginkgo leaves where GLEF39 (Alternaria sp.) or GLEF54 (Aspergillus ruber) and pathogens were simultaneously inoculated, which suggested that the pathogenicity of specific endophytic fungi occurred when plants were wounded. Overall, A. tenuissima, a major pathogen of ginkgo leaf blight, might lurk inside the plants as a friendly endogenous fungus and convert into a hostilely pathogenic mode at a particular time. This study proposed a possible cause of ginkgo leaf blight and provided potential theoretical guidance for its prevention.
Biotransformation of Chinese Jujube with Cordyceps militaris to Enhance the Antioxidant Activity In Vitro and the Protective Effect against Ethanol-Induced Oxidative Stress in Zebrafish
Authors: Wang Manman , Dun Mengqian , Liu Xinyuan , Zhang Guoying , Ling Jianya
Published: July 2023

Solid-state fermentation (SSF) of Chinese jujube with Cordyceps militaris was performed in the present study. The results revealed that the contents of total phenolic and flavonoid in rice medium with 50% jujube content increased to 1.59 mg GAE/g d.w. and 0.46 mg RE/g, respectively. The changes of phenolic acid composition showed a similar tendency, and three forms of individual phenolic compounds, namely free phenol, free/conjugated phenol, and bound phenol increased with the extension of the fermentation time. The determination of DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and the ferrous ion chelating capacity showed that the fermentation significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity in vitro, and the protective functions against ethanol-induced oxidative stress in zebrafish were also then investigated. SSF co-treatment with EtOH reduced MDA elevation and enhanced the activities of SOD and GSH-Px, along with the T-AOC levels in a dose-dependent manner in adult and larval zebrafish. Moreover, the qRT-PCR findings demonstrated that SSF-jujube was capable of upregulating the mRNA expressions of Nrf2 and HO-1 and downregulated the levels of NF-κB in zebrafish larvae. In conclusion, solid-state fermented Chinese jujube with C. militaris was an effective process, exhibited a good antioxidant activity, and demonstrated a better protective effect against ethanol-induced oxidative stress.
Characterization of Bacterial Exopolysaccharides Produced from Different Fruit-Based Solid Media
Authors: Guérin Marie , Garcia Cyrielle , Silva Christine Robert-Da , Couprie Joël , Remize Fabienne
Published: July 2023

Bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) share their compositional and structural features with plant dietary fibers. Therefore, analysis of bacterial EPSs produced during fermentation of fruit or vegetables interferes with that of plant fibers. To get rid of this effect, bacteria were grown on a solid medium containing fruit juice or purée and EPSs were recovered in a quantitative dependent manner and were quantified with the phenol-sulfuric acid colorimetric method. The protocol was assayed both on MRS medium and fruit-based media, with three bacterial strains from two species, Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides 56 and Weissella cibaria 21 and 64. With that method, differences in EPS production levels were shown according to the strain and cultivation conditions, such as sucrose content and pH. Complementary analysis with NMR indicated that glucose and sucrose were partly recovered with EPSs, pointing out the requirement for a further purification step. It also showed that EPSs’ ramified structure differed according to the strain and the fruit used in the medium. This method for EPS recovery is helpful to select strains and to pilot EPS production during lactic fermentation of fruit or vegetable foods.
Relationship between Representative Trace Components and Health Functions of Chinese Baijiu: A Review
Authors: Du Peng , Jiao Guanhua , Zhang Ziyang , Wang Junqing , Li Piwu , Dong Jinkai , Wang Ruiming
Published: July 2023

Baijiu is a traditional fermented Chinese beverage with a history of hundreds of years. The notable characteristics of Baijiu include diverse raw materials, complex technology, and the co-fermentation of multiple strains. Complex brewing technology has created different aromas and contributes to complex trace component formation in Baijiu. Among the different components, the alcohol, ester, and acid contents are the highest in Baijiu, constituting its aroma skeleton. Nitrogen compounds significantly constitute the aroma compounds of Baijiu and affect human health. Although present in low concentration, sulfur compounds significantly contribute to the taste and positively impact human health. We provide a systematic review of domestic and international reports on the trace components in Baijiu. The review introduces their sources, types, and effects on Baijiu aroma, describes their content and existence in mainstream aromas of Baijiu, such as the strong-, jiang-, and light-aromas, and discusses their health effects. Furthermore, this article summarizes and proposes several feasible research ideas. The systematic review of these trace components will possibly facilitate studies on Baijiu, particularly on its relationship with health.
Disinfection of Digestate Effluents Using Photocatalytic Nanofiltration
Authors: Chioti Afroditi G. , Sarikaki Georgia , Tsioni Vasiliki , Kostopoulou Eleni , Romanos George Em. , Falaras Polycarpos , Sfetsas Themistoklis
Published: July 2023

The disinfection properties of photocatalysis on liquid digestate derived from biogas plants have been investigated for the first time. The study presents the physiological characteristics of liquid digestate retrieved from various biogas plants based in northern Greece, revealing the heterogeneity of this matrix. Preliminary photocatalysis experiments conducted on inoculated liquid digestate samples showed that disinfection was possible when a pre-treated digestate underwent a combination of centrifuge–flocculation–μfiltration after 5.5 h with 0.7 g/L suspended TiO2 under UVA illumination. To explore the feasibility of an industrial application based on this concept, a novel design photocatalytic nanofiltration reactor was implemented for disinfection experiments on pre-treated liquid digestate. The synergistic action of photocatalysis during nanofiltration alleviated the leakage phenomena, and both the retentate and permeate effluents had lower concentrations of pathogens by approximately 1–2 log10 cfu/mL. This work sets out the basis for the efficient operation and engineering application of collaborative technology, with photocatalysis as the final step for liquid digestate sanitation and reusable water recovery.
Examining the Plausible Applications of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning in Accounts Payable Improvement
Authors: Kanaparthi Vijaya Krishna
Published: July 2023

Accounts Payable (AP) is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process used by large corporations to compensate vendors on time for goods and services received. A comprehensive verification procedure is executed before disbursing funds to a supplier or vendor. After the successful conclusion of these validations, the invoice undergoes further processing by traversing multiple stages, including vendor identification; line-item matching; accounting code identification; tax code identification, ensuring proper calculation and remittance of taxes, verifying payment terms, approval routing, and compliance with internal control policies and procedures, for a comprehensive approach to invoice processing. At the moment, each of these processes is almost entirely manual and laborious, which makes the process time-consuming and prone to mistakes in the ongoing education of agents. It is difficult to accomplish the task of automatically processing these invoices for payment without any human involvement. To provide a solution, we implemented an automated invoicing system with modules based on artificial intelligence. This system processes invoices from beginning to finish. It takes very little work to configure it to meet the specific needs of each unique customer. Currently, the system has been put into production use for two customers. It has handled roughly 80 thousand invoices, of which 76 percent were automatically processed with little or no human interaction.
Digital Economy under Fintech Scope: Evidence from African Investment
Authors: Kherbachi Sonia
Published: July 2023

The digital economy has revolutionized industries worldwide, prompting companies to invest in digital technologies to enhance productivity and profitability. However, the successful implementation of these technologies hinges on employees’ perceptions and satisfaction with the digital infrastructure. This paper aims to explore the impact of digital technology satisfaction on overall job satisfaction within the fintech domain. Drawing from the User-Task-Technology fit framework, it investigates the interplay between digital technology satisfaction, job satisfaction, and work-life balance. By aligning technology with task requirements and individual user needs, organizations can foster a positive work environment and improve firm performance. The study employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to identify key requirements for the digital economy in a digital environment. Furthermore, it addresses two research questions related to the selection of variables representing sustainability dimensions and evaluating dependency in digital economy projects under a fintech scope. The findings highlight the importance of digital technology satisfaction in driving employee job satisfaction and overall work experience. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the factors influencing the digital economy and offers insights for managers and organizations seeking to optimize their digital transformation strategies. The study concludes by exploring the digital economy in the context of healthcare services in Africa, specifically focusing on the initiatives led by the World Bank.
Study of the Condition of Forest Fire Fighting Vehicles
Authors: Silva Filipe , Raposo Jorge , Farinha José Torres , Raposo Hugo , Reis Luís
Published: July 2023

The Forest Fire Fighting Vehicle (FFFV) is one of the most important pieces of equipment in direct firefighting; therefore, its maintenance is strategic to guarantee high levels of reliability. The history of interventions is essential to support the increase in the quality of maintenance, namely with regard to the specificity of each equipment, in its actual operating conditions. In the absence of previous information, it is important to resort to complementary tools that allow for overcoming this gap where usually the knowledge of maintenance held by professionals and users is structuring and very helpful. In this perspective, data were collected from several fire brigades. The analysis and decisions were possible using fuzzy logic, following the Mamdani model and the centroid method for the defuzzification phase. Subsequently, a Failure Modes, Effects and Criticality Analysis (FMECA) was carried out to identify which would be the most severe failures, the possible cause of each failure and the respective maintenance action. Through the results obtained, it was possible to identify a set of elements of the FFFV where maintenance should pay additional attention so that the vehicle guarantees the desired levels of reliability and propose a maintenance program with added value compared to what is currently practised.
Novel Approaches and Techniques for Understanding Vegetation Fires in South America
Authors: Mataveli Guilherme , de Oliveira Gabriel , Libonati Renata , Silva-Junior Celso H. L. , Anderson Liana O.
Published: July 2023

Vegetation fires represent a major disturbance in the tropics, with South America notable for having both fire-sensitive (e [...]
Uncultured Microorganisms and Their Functions in the Fermentation Systems of Traditional Chinese Fermented Foods
Authors: Wang Jiaxuan , Hao Shuyue , Ren Qing
Published: July 2023

Traditional Chinese fermented foods are diverse and loved by people for their rich nutrition and unique flavors. In the fermentation processes of these foods, the microorganisms in the fermentation systems play a crucial role in determining the flavor and quality. Currently, some microorganisms in the fermentation systems of traditional Chinese fermented foods are in a state of being unculturable or difficult to culture, which hinders the comprehensive analysis and resource development of the microbial communities in the fermentation systems. This article provides an overview of the uncultured microorganisms in the natural environment, in the fermentation systems of traditional Chinese fermented foods, and the research methods for studying such microorganisms. It also discusses the prospects of utilizing the uncultured microorganisms in the fermentation systems of traditional Chinese fermented foods. The aim is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the microbial diversity and uncultured microorganisms in the fermentation systems of traditional Chinese fermented foods in order to better exploit and utilize these microorganisms and promote the development of traditional Chinese fermented foods.
Construction of a Ternary Composite Colloidal Structure of Zein/Soy Protein Isolate/Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose to Deliver Curcumin and Improve Its Bioavailability
Authors: Yu Chong , Shan Jingyu , Ju Hao , Chen Xiao , Xu Guangsen , Wu Yanchao
Published: July 2023

This work presents the fabrication of ternary nanoparticles (Z/S/C NPs) comprising zein (Z), soy protein isolate (SPI) and carboxymethylcellulose sodium (CMC-Na) through a pH-driven method. The results showed that the smallest particle size (71.41 nm) and the most stable zeta potential, measuring −49.97 mV, were achieved with the following ratio of ternary nanoparticles Z/SPI/CMC-Na (2:3:3). The surface morphology of the nanoparticles was further analyzed using transmission electron microscopy, and the synthesized nanoparticles were utilized to encapsulate curcumin (Cur), a hydrophobic, bioactive compound. The nanoparticles were characterized using a particle size analyzer, infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The results revealed that the formation of nanoparticles and the encapsulation of Cur were driven by electrostatic, hydrogen-bonding and hydrophobic interactions. The drug loading efficiency (EE%) of Z/S/C-cur nanoparticles reached 90.90%. The Z/S/C ternary nanoparticles demonstrated enhanced storage stability, photostability and simulated the gastrointestinal digestion of Cur. The release of Cur and variations in the particle size of nanoparticles were investigated across different stages of digestion. The biocompatibility of the Z/S/C ternary nanoparticles was assessed by conducting cell viability assays on HepG2 and L-O2 cells, which showed no signs of cytotoxicity. These results suggested that the ternary composite nanoparticles have potential in delivering nutritional foods and health-promoting bioactive substances.
Multifractal Features and Dynamical Thresholds of Temperature Extremes in Bangladesh
Authors: Liu Anxin , Zhang Zhihua , Crabbe M. James C. , Das Lipon Chandra
Published: July 2023

Multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) can extract multi-scaling behavior and measure long-range correlations in climatic time series. In this study, with the help of multifractal DFA, we investigated the scaling behavior of daily minimum/maximum temperatures during the years 1989–2019 from 34 meteorological stations in Bangladesh. We revealed spatial patterns, topographic impacts and global warming impacts of long-range correlations embedded in small and large fluctuations in temperature time series. Meanwhile, we developed a multifractal DFA-based algorithm to dynamically determine thresholds to discriminate extreme and non-extreme events in climate systems and applied it to analyze the frequency and trends of temperature extremes in Bangladesh. Compared with widely-used percentile thresholds, the extreme climate events captured in our algorithm are more reliable since they are determined dynamically by the climate system itself.
Trajectory Controllability of Clarke Subdifferential-Type Conformable Fractional Stochastic Differential Inclusions with Non-Instantaneous Impulsive Effects and Deviated Arguments
Authors: Chalishajar Dimplekumar , Kasinathan Ramkumar , Kasinathan Ravikumar , Sandrasekaran Varshini
Published: July 2023

In this study, the multivalued fixed point theorem, Clarke subdifferential properties, fractional calculus, and stochastic analysis are used to arrive at the system’s mild solution (1). Furthermore, the mean square moment for the aforementioned system (1) confirms the conditions for trajectory (T-)controllability. The last part of the paper uses two numerical applications to explain the novel theoretical results that were reached.
Controllable Preparation and Research Progress of Photosensitive Antibacterial Complex Hydrogels
Authors: Wang Zhijun , Fu Lili , Liu Dongliang , Tang Dongxu , Liu Kun , Rao Lu , Yang Jinyu , Liu Yi , Li Yuesheng , Chen Huangqin , Yang Xiaojie
Published: July 2023

Hydrogels are materials consisting of a network of hydrophilic polymers. Due to their good biocompatibility and hydrophilicity, they are widely used in biomedicine, food safety, environmental protection, agriculture, and other fields. This paper summarizes the typical complex materials of photocatalysts, photosensitizers, and hydrogels, as week as their antibacterial activities and the basic mechanisms of photothermal and photodynamic effects. In addition, the application of hydrogel-based photoresponsive materials in microbial inactivation is discussed, including the challenges faced in their application. The advantages of photosensitive antibacterial complex hydrogels are highlighted, and their application and research progress in various fields are introduced in detail.
Moxifloxacin HCl-Incorporated Aqueous-Induced Nitrocellulose-Based In Situ Gel for Periodontal Pocket Delivery
Authors: Senarat Setthapong , Rojviriya Catleya , Sarunyakasitrin Katekeaw , Charoentreeraboon Juree , Pichayakorn Wiwat , Phaechamud Thawatchai
Published: July 2023

A drug delivery system based on an aqueous-induced in situ forming gel (ISG) consists of solubilizing the drug within an organic solution of a polymer using a biocompatible organic solvent. Upon contact with an aqueous medium, the solvent diffuses out and the polymer, designed to be insoluble in water, solidifies and transforms into gel. Nitrocellulose (Nc), an aqueous insoluble nitrated ester of cellulose, should be a promising polymer for an ISG using water induction of its solution to gel state via phase inversion. The aim of this investigation was to develop and evaluate a moxifloxacin HCl (Mx)-incorporated aqueous-induced Nc-based ISG for periodontitis treatment. The effects of different solvents (N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP), DMSO, 2-pyrrolidone (Py), and glycerol formal (Gf)) on the physicochemical and bioactivity properties of the ISGs were investigated. The viscosity and injection force of the ISGs varied depending on the solvent used, with Gf resulting in higher values of 4631.41 ± 52.81 cPs and 4.34 ± 0.42 N, respectively. All ISGs exhibited Newtonian flow and transformed into a gel state upon exposure to the aqueous phase. The Nc formulations in DMSO showed lower water tolerance (12.50 ± 0.72%). The developed ISGs were easily injectable and demonstrated water sensitivity of less than 15.44 ± 0.89%, forming a gel upon contact with aqueous phase. The transformed Nc gel effectively prolonged Mx release over two weeks via Fickian diffusion, with reduced initial burst release. Different solvent types influenced the sponge-like 3D structure of the dried Nc ISGs and affected mass loss during drug release. Incorporating Nc reduced both solvent and drug diffusion, resulting in a significantly narrower zone of bacterial growth inhibition (p < 0.05). The Mx-incorporated Nc-based ISGs exhibited efficient antibacterial activity against four strains of Staphylococcus aureu and against periodontitis pathogens including Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis. This study suggests that the developed Mx-incorporated Nc-based ISGs using DMSO and NMP as the solvents are the most promising formulations. They exhibited a low viscosity, ease of injection, and rapid transformation into a gel upon aqueous induction, and they enabled localized and prolonged drug release with effective antibacterial properties. Additionally, this study represents the first reported instance of utilizing Nc as the polymer for ISG. Further clinical experiments are necessary to evaluate the safety of this ISG formulation.
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Embedded Hydrogels as a Promising Carrier for Retarding Irritation of Leflunomide
Authors: Alhelal Hawra Mohammed , Mehta Sidharth , Kadian Varsha , Kakkar Vandita , Tanwar Himanshi , Rao Rekha , Aldhubiab Bandar , Sreeharsha Nagaraja , Shinu Pottathil , Nair Anroop B.
Published: July 2023

Leflunomide (LEF), a disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug, has been widely explored for its anti-inflammatory potential in skin disorders such as psoriasis and melanoma. However, its poor stability and skin irritation pose challenges for topical delivery. To surmount these issues, LEF-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) integrated with hydrogels have been developed in the present investigation. SLNs developed by microemulsion techniques were found ellipsoidal with 273.1 nm particle size and −0.15 mV zeta potential. Entrapment and total drug content of LEF-SLNs were obtained as 65.25 ± 0.95% and 93.12 ± 1.72%, respectively. FTIR and XRD validated the successful fabrication of LEF-SLNs. The higher stability of LEF-SLNs (p < 0.001) compared to pure drug solution was observed in photostability studies. Additionally, in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of LEF-SLNs showed good potential in comparison to pure drugs. Further, prepared LEF-SLNs loaded hydrogel showed ideal rheology, texture, occlusion, and spreadability for topical drug delivery. In vitro release from LEF-SLN hydrogel was found to follow the Korsmeyer-Peppas model. To assess the skin safety of fabricated lipidic formulation, irritation potential was performed employing the HET-CAM technique. In conclusion, the findings of this investigation demonstrated that LEF-SLN hydrogel is capable of enhancing the photostability of the entrapped drug while reducing its skin irritation with improved topical delivery characteristics.
Shotgun Metagenomic Sequencing Reveals Virome Composition of Mosquitoes from a Transition Ecosystem of North-Northeast Brazil
Authors: Aragão Carine Fortes , da Silva Sandro Patroca , do Nascimento Bruna Laís Sena , da Silva Fábio Silva , Nunes Neto Joaquim Pinto , Pinheiro Valéria Cristina Soares , Cruz Ana Cecília Ribeiro
Published: July 2023

A wide diversity of pathogenic mosquito-borne viruses circulate in the Brazilian Amazon, and the intense deforestation can contribute to the spread of these viruses. In this context, this study aimed to investigate the viral diversity in mosquitoes of the genera Aedes, Culex, Haemagogus, and Sabethes from a transition area between the Amazon, Cerrado, and Caatinga biomes in Brazil. Metagenomic high-throughput sequencing was used to characterize the virome of 20 mosquito pools. A total of 15 virus-like genomes were identified, comprising species genomically close to insect-specific viruses of the families Iflaviridae, Metaviridae, Lispiviridae, Rhabdoviridae, Xinmoviridae, and Parvoviridae and species of plant viruses of the families Solemoviridae, Virgaviridae, and Partitiviridae. However, sequences of viruses associated with human and animal diseases were not detected. Most of the recovered genomes were divergent from those previously described. These findings reveal that there are a large number of unknown viruses to be explored in the middle-north of Brazil.
A Novel Homozygous GPAA1 Variant in a Patient with a Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Biosynthesis Defect
Authors: Fontana Paolo , Budillon Alberto , Simeone Domenico , Del Vecchio Blanco Francesca , Caiazza Martina , D’Amico Alessandra , Lonardo Fortunato , Nigro Vincenzo , Limongelli Giuseppe , Scarano Gioacchino
Published: July 2023

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol biosynthesis defect 15 is a rare autosomal recessive disorder due to biallelic loss of function of GPAA1. At the moment, less than twenty patients have been reported, usually compound heterozygous for GPAA1 variants. The main clinical features are intellectual disability, hypotonia, seizures, and cerebellar atrophy. We describe a 4-year-old male with a novel, homozygous variant. The patient presents with typical features, such as developmental delay, hypotonia, seizures, and atypical features, such as macrocephaly, preauricular, and cheek appendages. When he was 15 months, the cerebellum was normal. When he was 33 months old, after the molecular diagnosis, magnetic resonance imaging was repeated, showing cerebellar atrophy. This case extends the clinical spectrum of the GPAA1-related disorder and helps to delineate phenotypic differences with defects of other subunits of the transamidase complex.
D-Type Cyclins in Development and Disease
Authors: Saleban Mostafa , Harris Erica L. , Poulter James A.
Published: July 2023

D-type cyclins encode G1/S cell cycle checkpoint proteins, which play a crucial role in defining cell cycle exit and progression. Precise control of cell cycle exit is vital during embryonic development, with defects in the pathways regulating intracellular D-type cyclins resulting in abnormal initiation of stem cell differentiation in a variety of different organ systems. Furthermore, stabilisation of D-type cyclins is observed in a wide range of disorders characterized by cellular over-proliferation, including cancers and overgrowth disorders. In this review, we will summarize and compare the roles played by each D-type cyclin during development and provide examples of how their intracellular dysregulation can be an underlying cause of disease.
Dissection of the Genetic Basis of Resistance to Stem Rot in Cultivated Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) through Genome-Wide Association Study
Authors: Yan Liying , Song Wanduo , Wang Zhihui , Yu Dongyang , Sudini Hari , Kang Yanping , Lei Yong , Huai Dongxin , Chen Yuning , Wang Xin , Wang Qianqian , Liao Boshou
Published: July 2023

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) is an important oilseed and cash crop worldwide, contributing an important source of edible oil and protein for human nutrition. However, the incidence of stem rot disease caused by Athelia rolfsii poses a major challenge to peanut cultivation, resulting in significant yield losses. In this study, a panel of 202 peanut accessions was evaluated for their resistance to stem rot by inoculating plants in the field with A. rolfsii-infested oat grains in three environments. The mean disease index value of each environment for accessions in subsp. fasitigiate and subsp. hypogaea showed no significant difference. Accessions from southern China displayed the lowest disease index value compared to those from other ecological regions. We used whole-genome resequencing to analyze the genotypes of the accessions and to identify significant SNPs associated with stem rot resistance through genome-wide association study (GWAS). A total of 121 significant SNPs associated with stem rot resistance in peanut were identified, with phenotypic variation explained (PVE) ranging from 12.23% to 15.51%. A total of 27 candidate genes within 100 kb upstream and downstream of 23 significant SNPs were annotated, which have functions related to recognition, signal transduction, and defense response. These significant SNPs and candidate genes provide valuable information for further validation and molecular breeding to improve stem rot resistance in peanut.