bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of Soybean Products in Broiler Chicken Nutrition
Authors: Janocha Alina , Milczarek Anna , Pietrusiak Daria , Łaski Kamil , Saleh Mohamed
Published: January 2022

The study aimed to determine the overall effect of replacing soybean meal completely with soybean expeller cake or extruded full-fat soybean in feed rations for broiler chickens on their carcass composition and meat quality. The experiment involved one hundred and twenty Ross 308 broiler chickens randomly allocated to three equinumerous groups (SBM, SEC, EFS). Each group was divided into five subgroups—each consisting of eight birds of both sexes (1:1). From Day 1 to Day 21 of life the birds were fed with loose starter rations, and from Day 22 to Day 42 they were fed grower rations based on a wheat meal, protein products and mineral and vitamin admixtures. The experimental factor was a protein raw material comprising: SBM group—soybean meal from GM (genetically modified) seeds, SEC—soybean expeller cake from n-GM seeds, and EFS—extruded full-fat soybean from n-GM seeds. The experimental diets were isocaloric and isonitrogenous. It was demonstrated that replacing soybean meal with SEC or EFS in feed rations for broiler chickens led to a significant (p < 0.05) weight gain on Day 42 of rearing by 4.57% and 2.88%, respectively. The chickens fed diets with EFS had worse (more than 4.14%) feed conversion rate (FCR) in comparison to the others (p < 0.05). Broiler chickens from the SBM and SEC groups showed a higher share of breast and leg muscles (by 4.74% and 7.54%) and a lower share of abdominal fat (by 31.1%) and skin with subcutaneous fat (by 18.8% and 13.4%) in comparison with birds from the EFS group (p < 0.05). The highest content of intramuscular fat with the best fatty acids profile was determined in the muscles of birds fed with diets containing EFS, while the muscles of chickens receiving SEC scored the highest. The results provide grounds for recommending SEC in broiler chicken nutrition as it allowed for obtaining the best production and slaughter results, whereas—from the point of view of the human diet—EFS should be recommended since it best modified the lipid fraction of muscles.
Camelina (Camelina sativa (L.) Crantz) as Feedstuffs in Meat Type Poultry Diet: A Source of Protein and n-3 Fatty Acids
Authors: Juodka Robertas , Nainienė Rasa , Juškienė Violeta , Juška Remigijus , Leikus Raimondas , Kadžienė Gitana , Stankevičienė Daiva
Published: January 2022

Camelina seed or seed processing derivatives, i.e., cake, are cheap alternative protein feed ingredients for meat type poultry. Camelina is an oilseed crop containing 36.8% oil in seeds, while in the cake the oil content accounts for 6.4–22.7%. If compared with other Brassicaceae family plants, camelina is distinguished by a unique fatty acid composition, because the content of α-linolenic fatty acid (C18:3n-3; ALA) varies from 25.9 to 36.7% of total fatty acids. The total tocopherol content in camelina oil and cake are, respectively, 751–900 and 687 mg/kg. Addition of camelina to poultry nutrition increases the amount of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in poultry meat and liver. The content of ALA in chicken muscles increases by 1.3–4.4, 2.4–2.9 and 2.3–7.2 times after supplementing chicken diets with, respectively, camelina cake (8–24%), seed (10%), and oil (2.5–6.9%) in comparison with the control group. Camelina cake (5–25%), seed (10%) and oil (2.5–4%) inclusion in chicken diets results in 1.5–3.9 times higher total n-3 PUFA content in muscles and liver. Meanwhile, supplementation of chicken diets with camelina oil (4–6.9%), seed (5–10%) and cake (5–25%) results in, respectively, a 1.8–8.4, 1.6–1.9 and 1.3–2.9 times lower n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in muscles, and 3.29 times lower n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio in the liver. After inclusion of different amounts of camelina cake in chicken diets, a healthy for human nutrition n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio from 1.6 to 2.9 was found in chicken muscles.
Social Stimulation by the Owner Increases Dogs’ (Canis familiaris) Social Susceptibility in a Food Choice Task—The Possible Effect of Endogenous Oxytocin Release
Authors: Kis Anna , Bolló Henrietta , Gergely Anna , Topál József
Published: January 2022

Recent evidence suggests a human-like susceptibility to social influence in dogs. For example, dogs tend to ignore their ‘natural’ preference for the larger amount of food after having seen a human’s explicit preference for a smaller quantity. However, it is still unclear whether this tendency to conform to the partner’s behaviour can be influenced by social stimuli and/or the neurohormone oxytocin as primers to prosocial predispositions. In Experiment I, eighty two dogs were tested using Prato-Previde et al.’s food quantity preference task. In Experiment I, we investigated in a 2 × 2 design how (i) a 10-minute-long social stimulation by the owner versus a socially ignoring pre-treatment as well as (ii) on-line ostensive communications versus no communication during task demonstration affect dogs’ (N = 82) choices in the abovementioned food choice task. Results indicate that the owners’ pre-treatment with social stimuli (eye contact, petting) increased dogs’ susceptibility to the experimenter’s food preference, but the salient ostensive addressing signals accompanying human demonstration masked this social priming effect. In Experiment II, N = 32 dogs from the subjects of Experiment I were retested after oxytocin (OT) or placebo (PL) pre-treatments. This experiment aimed to study whether intranasal administration of oxytocin as compared to placebo treatment would similarly increase dogs’ tendency to re-enact the human demonstrator’s counterproductive choice in the same task. Results showed an increased susceptibility to the human preference in the OT group, suggesting that both socially stimulating pre-treatment and the intranasal administration of oxytocin have similar priming effects on dogs’ social susceptibility.
Characterization of Virulence Factors in Enterotoxin-Producing Staphylococcus aureus from Bulk Tank Milk
Authors: Jung Hye-Ri , Lee Young Ju
Published: January 2022

Staphylococcus aureus, a persistent mastitis-causing pathogen, produces various virulence factors, including enterotoxins. This study analyzed the genetic characteristics of bovine-mastitis-related virulence factors to evaluate the potential pathogenesis of S. aureus isolated from bulk tank milk. Among 93 S. aureus isolates from 396 dairy farms operated by 3 dairy companies in Korea, 40 (43.0%) isolates carried one or more enterotoxin genes. Moreover, S. aureus carrying enterotoxin genes showed a higher prevalence in all virulence genes tested in this study except for pvl and lukM, which were not detected in any isolate, than in the isolates without enterotoxin genes. In particular, the prevalence of six genes (hla, hlb, lukED, fnbA, clfA, and clfB) was significantly higher in S. aureus carrying the enterotoxin genes than in the isolates without the enterotoxin genes (p < 0.05). The most common multilocus sequence type of enterotoxin-producing isolates was ST188, and all isolates of ST188 harbored the see gene. S. aureus isolated from bulk tank milk, not from mastitis, had a high prevalence of virulence factors, posing a public health threat. Moreover, a high presence of enterotoxins in bulk tank milk is probably because of poor hygiene; therefore, it is important to develop strong monitoring and sanitation programs for dairy factories.
Effects of LED Light Illumination on the Growth, Digestive Enzymes, and Photoacclimation of Goniopora columna in Captivity
Authors: Cheng Chiu-Min , Cheng Yu-Rong , Lin Hsuan-Yu , Sun Wei-Ting , Pan Chih-Hung , Ding De-Sing
Published: January 2022

Goniopora columna is a stony coral valued for its reef-building potential and its unique appearance. Thus, identifying the optimal culture conditions for G. columna would enable efficient cultivation and prevent the illegal exploitation of marine resources. Light sources are crucial for the growth of corals because zooxanthellae provide them with basic nutrients through photosynthesis. Different corals and zooxanthellae have different photoacclimation characteristics; therefore, selecting a suitable light wavelength remains the key inhibitor of coral maintenance in marine aquariums. Accordingly, this study investigated the effects of different light wavelengths on G. columna. It was illuminated for 6 or 12 h a day under white light, yellow light, red light (LR), green light (LG), blue light (LB), or purple light (LP) for 8 weeks. During the experiment, R(R; i.e., a formula feed that combines sodium alginate, protein and probiotics) of 5% (w/v) of G. columna tissue and skeletal dry weight was fed every day. Coral polyps were counted, zooxanthellae density, chlorophyll a concentration, specific growth rates, and survival rates were calculated; polyp stretching and contractile behaviors were observed; and body composition and digestive enzyme activity were analyzed. LB or LP (but not LG or LR) illumination for at least 6 h per day significantly promoted the growth, survival, protein content, and protease activity of the G. columna specimens. Furthermore, coral polyp extension reached 100% after 30 min of LP and LB light irradiation. Although no significant differences in the zooxanthellae density or chlorophyll a concentration were noted under various light wavelengths, significant reductions were detected in the absence of light. To achieve energy-efficient coral aquaculture with regard to G. columna cultivation, 6 h of LB or LP illumination per day can improve the growth.
Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Antibodies in 2021
Authors:   Antibodies Editorial Office
Published: January 2022

Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Insulinotropic Potential of Moxifloxacin and Gemifloxacin: An In Vivo Rabbits Model Study Followed by Randomized Phase I Clinical Trial
Authors: Ullah Abid , Ahmad Shujaat , Ali Niaz , Rahman Shafiq Ur , Hussain Haya , Alghamdi Saad , Almehmadi Mazen , Dablool Anas S. , Bannunah Azzah M. , Bukhari Syeda Hajira , Almarshad Feras
Published: January 2022

Fluoroquinolones (FQs) have been reported to cause dysglycemia in both diabetic and non-diabetic patients. However, diabetic patients are usually on polypharmacy, so we cannot attribute the dysglycemia specifically to FQs. To answer the question as to whether Moxifloxacin and Gemifloxacin influence blood glucose levels and serum insulin levels or otherwise, rabbits were used as experimental animals in an in vivo model followed by a phase I randomized clinical trial in euglycemic healthy volunteers. The effects on the serum insulin and blood glucose levels in the Moxifloxacin and Gemifloxacin treated groups were, respectively, determined on the fifth day in both the in-vivo rabbits model and in the test subjects of the phase I clinical trial. The effects of these drugs were also checked on the histomorphology of the pancreas in the rabbits. The findings of our study suggest that Moxifloxacin and Gemifloxacin significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the blood glucose levels via a subsequent significant shift in the serum insulin levels both in the in vivo animal model and in the test subjects of the phase I clinical trial. No prominent effects on the beta cells histomorphology were noted in this study. Moxifloxacin showed a more significant effect than Gemifloxacin. The insulinotropic effect was comparable to the effect of Glibenclamide. It is concluded that Moxifloxacin and Gemifloxacin have a significant blood glucose lowering effect mediated through insulinotropic action. (Clinical Trials.gov identifier: NCT04692623).
The Influence of Liquid Medium Choice in Determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration of Essential Oils against Pathogenic Bacteria
Authors: Hulankova Radka
Published: January 2022

So far there is no internationally accepted, standardized method for MIC determination of natural substances such as essential oils (EOs). The aim of this study was to elucidate how much the MIC values obtained from various studies using different culture media are comparable. The median MICs for cinnamon essential oil (EO) obtained by broth dilution were 517, 465 and 517 µg/mL for Mueller–Hinton Broth (MHB), Tryptone Soya Broth (TSB) and Brain Heart Infusion (BHI), respectively. The MIC values for oregano EO were significantly (p < 0.001) lower in MHB than in highly nutritious media; the median MICs were 616 µg/mL for MHB and 474 µg/mL for TSB and BHI. This statistically significant difference was noted for all the pathogens studied (Salmonella Enteritidis, Escherichia coli O157, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus). In the presence of oregano EO lag phase was also much less prolonged in MHB (by 6–17%) than in the other media (by 92–189%). Some components of EOs may bind to starch in MHB; since the phenomenon seems to be selective and EO dependent, the use of MHB for comparison of antimicrobial properties of various EOs thus cannot be recommended.
Molecular and Genomic Insights of mcr-1-Producing Escherichia coli Isolates from Piglets
Authors: Rodríguez-Santiago Jonathan , Rodríguez-Medina Nadia , Tamayo-Legorreta Elsa María , Silva-Sánchez Jesús , Téllez-Sosa Juan , Duran-Bedolla Josefina , Aguilar-Vera Alejandro , Lecona-Valera Alba Neri , Garza-Ramos Ulises , Alpuche-Aranda Celia
Published: January 2022

The use of colistin in food-producing animals favors the emergence and spread of colistin-resistant strains. Here, we investigated the occurrence and molecular mechanisms of colistin resistance among E. coli isolates from a Mexican piglet farm. A collection of 175 cephalosporin-resistant colonies from swine fecal samples were recovered. The colistin resistance phenotype was identified by rapid polymyxin test and the mcr-type genes were screened by PCR. We assessed the colistin-resistant strains by antimicrobial susceptibility test, pulse-field gel electrophoresis, plasmid profile, and mating experiments. Whole-Genome Sequencing data was used to explore the resistome, virulome, and mobilome of colistin-resistant strains. A total of four colistin-resistant E. coli were identified from the cefotaxime-resistant colonies. All harbored the plasmid-borne mcr-1 gene, which was located on conjugative 170-kb IncHI-2 plasmid co-carrying ESBLs genes. Thus, high antimicrobial resistance rates were observed for several antibiotic families. In the RC2-007 strain, the mcr-1 gene was located as part of a prophage carried on non-conjugative 100-kb-plasmid, which upon being transformed into K. variicola strain increased the polymyxin resistance 2-fold. The genomic analysis showed a broad resistome and virulome. Our findings suggest that colistin resistance followed independent acquisition pathways as clonal and non-genetically related mcr-1-harboring strains were identified. These E. coli isolates represent a reservoir of antibiotic resistance and virulence genes in animals for human consumption which could be potentially propagated into other interfaces.
On the Scavenging Ability of Scutellarein against the OOH Radical in Water and Lipid-like Environments: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Spiegel Maciej , Marino Tiziana , Prejanò Mario , Russo Nino
Published: January 2022

The antioxidant capability of scutellarein, a flavonoid extracted from different plants of the Scutellaria family, was computationally predicted by considering its reaction with the OOH radical in both lipid-like and water environments. The pKa and equilibrium behavior in the aqueous phase were also calculated. Different reaction mechanisms involving the most populated species were considered. The work was performed by using the density functional level of theory. The individual, total, and fraction-corrected total rate constants were obtained. The results show that scutellarein has scavenging power against the hydroperoxyl radical similar to that of Trolox, which is generally used as a reference antioxidant.
AHR and NRF2 in Skin Homeostasis and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Edamitsu Tomohiro , Taguchi Keiko , Okuyama Ryuhei , Yamamoto Masayuki
Published: January 2022

Skin is constantly exposed to environmental insults, including toxic chemicals and oxidative stress. These insults often provoke perturbation of epidermal homeostasis and lead to characteristic skin diseases. AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor) and NRF2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) are transcription factors that induce a battery of cytoprotective genes encoding detoxication and antioxidant enzymes in response to environmental insults. In addition to their basic functions as key regulators of xenobiotic and oxidant detoxification, recent investigations revealed that AHR and NRF2 also play critical roles in the maintenance of skin homeostasis. In fact, specific disruption of AHR function in the skin has been found to be associated with the pathogenesis of various skin diseases, most prevalently atopic dermatitis (AD). In this review, current knowledge on the roles that AHR and NRF2 play in epidermal homeostasis was summarized. Functional annotations of genetic variants, both regulatory and nonsynonymous SNPs, identified in the AHR and NRF2 loci in the human genome were also summarized. Finally, the possibility that AHR and NRF2 serve as therapeutic targets of AD was assessed.
Effects of Colchicine in a Rat Model of Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Zălar Denisa-Mădălina , Pop Cristina , Buzdugan Elena , Kiss Bela , Ştefan Maria-Georgia , Ghibu Steliana , Crişan Doiniţa , Buruiană-Simic Alexandra , Grozav Adriana , Borda Ileana Monica , Mogoșan Cristina Ionela
Published: January 2022

Inflammation and hyperlipidemia play an essential role in the pathophysiology of endothelial dysfunction as well as atherosclerotic plaque formation, progression and rupture. Colchicine has direct anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting multiple inflammatory signaling pathways. The purpose of our study was to evaluate colchicine activity in an animal model of hyperlipidemia induced by diet. A total of 24 male rats (wild type, WT) were divided into three groups: group one fed with a basic diet (BD) (WT + BD, n = 8), group two fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) (WT + HFD, n = 8)), and group three which received HFD plus drug treatment (colchicine, 0.5 mg/kg, i.p., daily administration). Total cholesterol, LDL-, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides were determined. In addition, plasma transaminases, inflammation of oxidative stress markers, were measured. Tissue samples were evaluated using hematoxylin-eosin and red oil stain. At the end of the study, rats presented increased serum lipid levels, high oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory markers. The aortic histopathological section revealed that HFD induced signs of endothelial dysfunction. Colchicine treatment significantly resolved and normalized these alterations. Moreover, colchicine did not influence NAFLD activity score but significantly increased ALT and AST levels, suggesting that colchicine amplified the hepatocellular injury produced by the diet. Colchicine reduces plasma lipid levels, oxidative stress and inflammation markers and leads to more favorable histopathologic vascular and cardiac results. However, the adverse effects of colchicine could represent an obstacle to its safe use.
Inflammatory Cells in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Mehu Marcelle , Narasimhulu Chandrakala Aluganti , Singla Dinender K.
Published: January 2022

Atherosclerosis is a chronic progressive disease that involves damage to the intima, inflammatory cell recruitment and the accumulation of lipids followed by calcification and plaque rupture. Inflammation is considered a key mediator of many events during the development and progression of the disease. Various types of inflammatory cells are reported to be involved in atherosclerosis. In the present paper, we discuss the involved inflammatory cells, their characteristic and functional significance in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. The detailed understanding of the role of all these cells in disease progression at different stages sheds more light on the subject and provides valuable insights as to where and when therapy should be targeted.
Hydrangea macrophylla and Thunberginol C Attenuate Stress-Induced Anxiety in Mice
Authors: Lee Jihye , Kwon Huiyoung , Cho Eunbi , Jeon Jieun , Lee In-Kyu , Cho Wan-Seob , Park Se Jin , Lee Seungheon , Kim Dong Hyun , Jung Ji Wook
Published: January 2022

Stress is an important neurological input for successful life. However, chronic stress and stress hormones could be a cause of various neurological disorders including anxiety disorders. Therefore, there have been many efforts to find effective materials for curing stress-induced neurological disorders. In this study, we examined the effect of Hydrangea macrophylla (HM) on corticosterone-induced neurotoxicity, stress-induced anxiety in mice and suggested a possible active ingredient of HM. HM protected cortical neurons against neurotoxicity of corticosterone (CORT), a stress hormone. HM also blocked CORT-induced hippocampal synaptic deficit via regulating Akt signaling. Oral administration of HM improved chronic restraint stress-induced anxiety in Elevated Plus maze test along with reduction of plasma corticosterone and TNF-α levels. Moreover, HM reduced stress-induced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Thunberginol C, an active ingredient of HM, also prevented CORT-induced neuronal cell death and restraint stress-induced anxiety. Moreover, thunberginol C reduced plasma TNF-α level and neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Collectively, HM could be a good candidate for preventing stress-induced neurological disorders and thunberginol C may be an active ingredient of HM for this purpose.
Crystal Structure, Electrical Conductivity and Hydration of the Novel Oxygen-Deficient Perovskite La2ScZnO5.5, Doped with MgO and CaO
Authors: Belova Ksenia , Egorova Anastasia , Pachina Svetlana , Animitsa Irina
Published: January 2022

This paper demonstrates the possibility of creating oxygen deficiency in perovskites A+3B+3O3 by introducing two types of cations with different charges into the B-sublattice. For this, it is proposed to introduce a two-charged cation, for example, Zn2+, as an alternative to alkaline earth metals. Previously, this possibility was demonstrated for aluminate LaAlO3 and indate LaInO3. In this article, we have focused on the modification of the scandium-containing perovskite LaScO3. The novel oxygen-deficient perovskite La2ScZnO5.5 and doped phases La1.9Ca0.1ScZnO5.45, La2Sc0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45, and La2Sc0.9Mg0.1ZnO5.45 were obtained via a solid-state reaction process. Their phase composition and hydration were investigated by XRD and TGA + MS techniques. The conductivities of these materials were measured by the electrochemical impedance technique under atmospheres of various water vapor partial pressures. All phases crystallized in orthorhombic symmetry with the Pnma space group. The phases were capable of reversible water uptake; the proton concentration increased in the order of La2ScZnO5.5 < La2Sc0.9Mg0.1ZnO5.45 < La2Sc0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45 ≈ La1.9Ca0.1ScZnO5.45 and reached ~90% hydration limit for Ca2+-doped phases. The total conductivities increased with the increase in the free lattice volume in the sequence of σLa2ScZnO5.5 < σLa2Sc0.9Mg0.1ZnO5.45 < σLa1.9Ca0.1ScZnO5.45 < σLa2Sc0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45, the activation energy decreased in the same sequence. The sample La2Sc0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45 showed the highest conductivity of about 10−3 S∙cm−1 at 650 °C (dry air pH2O = 3.5·10−5 atm). Water incorporation was accompanied by an increase in conductivity in wet air (pH2O = 2·10−2 atm) due to the appearance of proton conductivity. The sample La2Sc0.9Ca0.1ZnO5.45 showed a conductivity of about 10−5 S∙cm−1 at 350 °C (pH2O = 2·10−2 atm). A comparison of conductivities of obtained phase La2ScZnO5.5 with the conductivities of La2AlZnO5.5 and La2InZnO5.5 was made; the nature of the B-cation did not significantly affect the total conductivity.
AB-LaBSE: Uyghur Sentiment Analysis via the Pre-Training Model with BiLSTM
Authors: Pei Yijie , Chen Siqi , Ke Zunwang , Silamu Wushour , Guo Qinglang
Published: January 2022

In recent years, more and more attention has been paid to text sentiment analysis, which has gradually become a research hotspot in information extraction, data mining, Natural Language Processing (NLP), and other fields. With the gradual popularization of the Internet, sentiment analysis of Uyghur texts has great research and application value in online public opinion. For low-resource languages, most state-of-the-art systems require tens of thousands of annotated sentences to get high performance. However, there is minimal annotated data available about Uyghur sentiment analysis tasks. There are also specificities in each task—differences in words and word order across languages make it a challenging problem. In this paper, we present an effective solution to providing a meaningful and easy-to-use feature extractor for sentiment analysis tasks: using the pre-trained language model with BiLSTM layer. Firstly, data augmentation is carried out by AEDA (An Easier Data Augmentation), and the augmented dataset is constructed to improve the performance of text classification tasks. Then, a pretraining model LaBSE is used to encode the input data. Then, BiLSTM is used to learn more context information. Finally, the validity of the model is verified via two categories datasets for sentiment analysis and five categories datasets for emotion analysis. We evaluated our approach on two datasets, which showed wonderful performance compared to some strong baselines. We close with an overview of the resources for sentiment analysis tasks and some of the open research questions. Therefore, we propose a combined deep learning and cross-language pretraining model for two low resource expectations.
Advanced Air Mobility: Opportunities and Challenges Deploying eVTOLs for Air Ambulance Service
Authors: Goyal Rohit , Cohen Adam
Published: January 2022

Advanced air mobility (AAM) is a broad concept enabling consumers access to on-demand air mobility, cargo and package delivery, healthcare applications, and emergency services through an integrated and connected multimodal transportation network. While a number of technical and social concerns have been raised about AAM, early use cases for emergency response and aeromedical transport may be key to demonstrating the concept and building public acceptance. Using a five-step multi-method approach consisting of preliminary scoping, modeling performance metrics, developing baseline assumptions, analyzing scenarios, and applying a Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis, this study examines the potential operational and market viability of the air ambulance market using a variety of aircraft and propulsion types. The analysis concludes that electric vertical take-off and land (eVTOL) aircraft could confront a number of operational and economic challenges for aeromedical applications compared to hybrid vertical take-off and land (VTOL) aircraft and rotorcraft. The study finds that technological improvements such as reduced charge times, increased operational range, and battery swapping could make the eVTOL aircraft more reliable and cost-effective for aeromedical transport.
Analysis of Characteristics of Roof Fall Collapse of Coal Mine in Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Wang Ya-Jie , Zhao Lin-Shuang , Xu Ye-Shuang
Published: January 2022

This paper presents the roof fall collapse of a coal mine that occurred, causing 20 deaths and 1 injury, in Qinghai Province, China, on 14 August 2021. After the primary investigation of this incident and a brief description of the rescue action undertaken, this report discussed the possible reasons behind this disaster. The fissure water and damaged rock mass are the dominant triggering factors of this incident. Little concern for risk assessment and monitoring systems is one of the main man-made mistakes. Consequently, the reflections and suggestions are put forward to reduce or prevent the occurrence of roof fall incidents in coal mines. The noteworthy actions that are necessary in coal mine projects are conducting risk assessments based on geological condition and building proper support systems for coal mines considering he situation in situ.
NOx Emissions below the Prospective EURO VII Limit on a Retrofitted Heavy-Duty Vehicle
Authors: Ximinis Joan , Massaguer Albert , Massaguer Eduard
Published: January 2022

In this study, a EURO VI heavy-duty vehicle (HDV) has been retrofitted with an exhaust gas heater (EGH) with the objective to reduce its NOx emissions below the current EURO VI and EURO VII limits. Results show that an EGH of 5 kW is enough to produce a significant NOx emissions abatement below the EURO VI and EURO VII limits. A conventional after-treatment system heated using a 5 kW EGH could work at its maximum catalytic conversion efficiency of 95% regardless of the engine operating speed. Consequently, exhaust gas heaters are a potential solution to high NOx emission at low engine regimes. With the use of an EGH, urea can be injected sooner, and catalytic reactions could cut much more NOx emissions. However, its incorporation would increase the vehicle’s fuel consumption by 1.47% if it is connected directly to the vehicle’s electrical system. Finally, it is also demonstrated that an automotive thermoelectric generator (ATEG) can supply the energy required by the EGH through the conversion of the waste heat from exhaust gases into electricity. This system could work electrically autonomous so there is no extra consumption of fuel.
Geophysical Research of Secondary Deformations in the Post Mining Area of the Glaciotectonic Muskau Arch Geopark—Preliminary Results
Authors: Blachowski Jan , Warchala Ewa , Koźma Jacek , Buczyńska Anna , Bugajska Natalia , Becker Miłosz , Janicki Dominik , Kujawa Paulina , Kwaśny Leszek , Wajs Jaroslaw , Targosz Paweł , Wojdyła Marek
Published: January 2022

Underground and opencast mining adversely affects the surrounding environment. This process may continue even decades after the end of actual mineral extraction. One of the most significant effects of ceased mining are secondary deformations. Safe, new development of post-mining areas requires reliable information on potential deformation risk zones, which may be difficult to obtain due to a lack of necessary data. This study aimed to investigate and understand the secondary deformation processes in the underground mining area of the former “Babina” lignite mine, located in the unique glaciotectonic environment of the Muskau Arch, in western Poland. A combination of GIS-based historical mapping, geophysical 2D/3D microgravimetry, and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) measurements allowed the identification of subsidence-prone areas and the determination of potential factors of sinkhole development. The latter are associated with anthropogenic transformation of rock mass and hydrogeological conditions, by shallow underground mining. The results confirmed that multi-level mining of coal deposits in complex and complicated glaciotectonic conditions cause discontinuous deformations, and may be hazardous as long as 50 years after the end of mining operations.
Fertilization and Soil Microbial Community: A Review
Authors: Dincă Lucian Constantin , Grenni Paola , Onet Cristian , Onet Aurelia
Published: January 2022

The present paper reviews the most recent advances regarding the effects of chemical and organic fertilizers on soil microbial communities. Based on the results from the articles considered, some details are presented on how the use of various types of fertilizers affects the composition and activity of soil microbial communities. Soil microbes have different responses to fertilization based on differences in the total carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) contents in the soil, along with soil moisture and the presence of plant species. These articles show that the use of chemical fertilizers changes the abundance of microbial populations and stimulates their growth thanks to the nutrient supply added. Overall, however, the data revealed that chemical fertilizers have no significant influence on the richness and diversity of the bacteria and fungi. Instead, the abundance of individual bacterial or fungal species was sensitive to fertilization and was mainly attributed to the changes in the soil chemical properties induced by chemical or organic fertilization. Among the negative effects of chemical fertilization, the decrease in enzymatic activity has been highlighted by several papers, especially in soils that have received the largest amounts of fertilizers together with losses in organic matter.
The Physico-Chemical and Sensory Characteristics of Coloured-Flesh Potato Chips: Influence of Cultivar, Slice Thickness and Frying Temperature
Authors: Vaitkevičienė Nijolė , Jarienė Elvyra , Kulaitienė Jurgita , Levickienė Dovilė
Published: January 2022

Coloured potato chips, due to a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, may be healthier compared to traditional chips. This study examined the effect of cultivar and different slice thicknesses and frying temperatures on the physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of coloured potato chips. Potatoes chips were prepared from three coloured potato cultivars. Frying experiments were conducted at 160 and 180 °C using potato slices with thicknesses of 1.00 and 2.00 mm. The quality of the raw potatoes tubers and chips were estimated. A principal component analysis was applied to describe the differences in the physico-chemical characteristics between the potato chip samples processed with different conditions. The results showed that, significantly (p < 0.05), the highest amounts of total phenolic content, total anthocyanins, dry matter and starch were accumulated in raw tubers of potato cv. Blaue Anneliese. The highest amount of total phenolic content and anthocyanins was found in 1 mm chips of cv. Blaue Anneliese fried at 160 °C. An increased frying temperature significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the content of these compounds. The amount of fat in the chips was higher when they were fried at 160 °C than at 180 °C. Chips processed from potatoes cvs. Blaue Anneliese and Rosemarie showed a typical colour as a raw material. The hardness of the chips significantly (p < 0.05) increased with an increase in slice thickness. The flavour, odour and colour of the 1 mm chips of cv. Blaue Anneliese fried at 180 °C gained the highest rating.
Study on Data-Driven Approaches for the Automated Assembly of Board-to-Board Connectors
Authors: Lin Hsien-I , Wibowo Fauzy Satrio , Singh Ashutosh Kumar
Published: January 2022

The mating of the board-to-board (BtB) connector is rugged because of its design complexity, small pitch (0.4 mm), and susceptibility to damage. Currently, the assembly task of BtB connectors is performed manually because of these factors. A high chance of damage to the connectors can also occur during the mating process. Thus, it is essential to automate the assembly process to ensure its safety and reliability during the mating process. Commonly, the mating procedure adopts a model-based approach, including error recovery methods, owing to less design complexity and fewer pins with a high pitch. However, we propose a data-driven approach prediction for the mating process of the fine pitch 0.4 mm board-to-board connector utilizing a manipulator arm and force sensor. The data-driven approach uses force data for time series encoding methods such as recurrence plot (RP), Gramian matrix, k-nearest neighbor dynamic time warping (kNN-DTW), Markov transition field (MTF), and long short-term memory (LSTM) to compare each of the model prediction performances. The proposed method combines the RP model with the convolutional neural network (RP-CNN) to predict the force data. In the experiment, the proposed RP-CNN model used two final layers, SoftMax and L2-SVM, to compare with the other prediction models mentioned above. The output of the data-driven prediction is the coordinate alignment of the female board-to-board connector with the male board-to-board connector based on the value of force. Based on the experiment, the encoding approach, especially RP-CNN (L2-SVM), outperformed all prediction models as mentioned above with an accuracy of 86%.
Simulation of the Deformation and Failure Characteristics of a Cylinder Shell under Internal Explosion
Authors: Wang Dengwang , Qin Xuejun , Chen Wei , Wang Sheng
Published: January 2022

Under the load of an internal explosion shock wave, the failure of a cylindrical shell is the basis of safety evaluation and failure analysis of explosion vessel design. This paper carried out the explosion loading experiment of a cylindrical shell, and used the nonlinear dynamic finite element analysis program LS-DYNA for the dynamic response of the cylindrical shell along the directions of thickness and length, and analyzed the failure law of a cylindrical shell. The results showed that the deformation of the core section of the cylindrical shell was not different in the same specific distance, the strain decreased more slowly with the increase of thickness at the end of the explosion center, and the expansion failure process and fracture mode of metal shell under explosive load were affected by the material and structure size of the shell, as well as the characteristics and mode of the load. Based on the plastic theory, this paper discussed the evolution characteristics of the stress state during the expansion process of cylindrical shells under different explosion pressures, and analyzed the explosion pressure effect on the tensile fracture and shear fracture. The expansion failure experiment of a 20# steel-made cylindrical shell and the microscopic and metallographic analysis of the recovered debris were carried out.
Seismic Strengthening of R/C Buildings Retrofitted by New Window-Type System Using Non-Buckling Slit Dampers Examined via Pseudo-Dynamic Testing and Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Lee Kang-Seok , Lee Bok-Gi , Jung Ju-Seong
Published: January 2022

In the present study, a window-type seismic control system (WSCS) using non-buckling slit dampers (NBSDs) was proposed and developed to address the disadvantages of conventional seismic control systems so that it can be effectively applied to existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings. Materials testing was also conducted to examine the material performance and energy dissipation capacity of NBSD. A full-scale two-story test frame modeled from existing RC buildings with non-seismic details was subjected to pseudo-dynamic testing. As a result, the effect of NBSD-WSCS, when applied to existing RC frames, was examined and verified, especially as to its seismic retrofitting performance. In addition, based on material testing and pseudo-dynamic test results, a restoring force characteristics model was proposed to implement the nonlinear dynamic analysis of a test building retrofitted with NBSD-WSCS. Based on the proposed restoring force characteristics, nonlinear dynamic analysis was conducted, and the results were compared with those obtained by the pseudo-dynamic tests. Finally, in an attempt to commercialize this NBSD-based WSCS, nonlinear dynamic analysis was conducted on the entire RC building with non-seismic details retrofitted with NBSD-WSCS. The results showed that the RC frame (building) with no reinforcement applied underwent shear failure at seismic intensity of 200 cm/s2, a typical threshold applied in seismic design in Korea. In contrast, in the frame (building) retrofitted with NBSD-WSCS, only minor earthquake damage was expected, and even when the seismic intensity was set to 300 cm/s2, the maximum intensity that had been observed in Korea, only small or moderate seismic damage was expected. These results confirmed the effectiveness of the seismic retrofitting method using NBSD-WSCS developed in the present study.
An In-Pipe Inspection Robot with Permanent Magnets and Omnidirectional Wheels: Design and Implementation
Authors: Thung-Od Kaned , Kanjanawanishkul Kiattisin , Maneewarn Thavida , Sethaput Thunyaseth , Boonyaprapasorn Arsit
Published: January 2022

This paper aims to present the design and prototype of an inspection robot that can perform both horizontal and vertical locomotion in ferromagnetic pipelines. The proposed robot applies to a range from 5-inch (127 mm) diameter pipes to flat plates. The train-like robot is mainly composed of three sealed modules with omnidirectional driving wheels for longitudinal and transverse movements. Permanent magnets were designed to provide sufficient magnetic adhesion between the robot and the ferromagnetic surface of the pipes. The internal condition of the pipe can be monitored visually through cameras and sensors. Specific experimental conditions have been carried out to validate the robot’s capabilities, including maximum speed, payload capacity, and vertical climbing distance. The experimental results also show that the robot is capable of passing through a straight pipe and elbow fitting in both upward and downward directions.
Skeletal, Dental, and Soft Tissue Changes after Applying Active Skeletonized Sutural Distractor (ASSD) for Class III Malocclusion Patients
Authors: Hassan Rozita , Mohamed Wael Ahmed Bayomy , Ab. Rahman Norma , Ab. Rahman Shaifulizan , Saddki Norkhafizah
Published: January 2022

Background: Nonsurgical treatment of Class III malocclusion may reduce the chances for orthognathic surgery in the future. This study aimed to determine the post-treatment skeletal, dental and soft tissue changes in the anteroposterior plane applying active skeletonized sutural distractor (ASSD) in late adolescent Class III malocclusion patients. Materials and Methods: After screening 13,500 students from 18 secondary schools, a sample of 26 subjects was recruited for this study, with a mean age of 15(±1.4) years after considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. ASSD appliances were inserted into patients, and lateral cephalometric x-rays were taken for pre- and post-treatment analysis. Dental casts of the patients were also taken and scanned using a 3D laser scanner for comparisons. Results: The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for inter-examiner were 0.87 to 0.99 and 0.96 to 0.99 for lateral cephalometric and dental cast measurements, respectively. The difference in pre- and post-treatment of cephalometric measurements of the mandible showed statistically significant changes for mandibular plane angle (p < 0.001) and SNB angle (p = 0.029). The dental cast measurements showed statistically significant changes of inter-molars width (p < 0.001) as well as palatal (p = 0.002). Conclusions: The results showed statistically significant improvement in skeletal, dental, and soft tissue changes after treatment applying ASSD for Class III malocclusion patients.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Aircraft Modeling and Simulation”
Authors: Botez Ruxandra Mihaela
Published: January 2022

New airplane and unmanned aerial system modeling, simulation, and design methodologies are very important in aerospace engineering [...]
Comparison of Philosophical Dialogue with a Robot and with a Human
Authors: Someya Yurina , Iio Takamasa
Published: January 2022

Philosophical dialogue is an effective way to deepen one’s thoughts, but it is not easy to practice it because humans have emotions. We proposed the use of a robot in practicing philosophical dialogue and experimentally investigated how philosophical dialogue with a robot differs from philosophical dialogue with a human. The results of the experiment showed that (1) participants talking to a human spend more time answering than those talking to a robot, (2) the increase in the time participants spend answering comes from the increase in the time participants spend speaking and is not influenced by reaction latency and pause time so much, (3) the reason for the increase in the time spent speaking is that some participants who talked to a human were likely to choose their words so as not to make the interlocutor uncomfortable and rephrased their thoughts so that they were easier for the interlocutor to understand, and some participants who talked to a robot might have thought that the robot would not be concerned even if they give a brief answer, and finally (4) it seems there is no significant difference in the depth of thought between participants talking to a human and participants talking to a robot. These results suggest the effectiveness of using robots for philosophical dialogue, in particular for people who feel nervous about talking to others.
Mechanism of Removal of Hexavalent Chromium from Aqueous Solution by Fe-Modified Biochar and Its Application
Authors: Pan Run , Bu Jiangping , Ren Guoyu , Zhang Zihao , Li Kexin , Ding Aifang
Published: January 2022

This study discussed the mechanism of Fe-modified biochar (FeBC) derived from rice straw biochar (BC) as an adsorbent for removing Cr(VI) from aqueous solution and assessed its applicability in actual industrial wastewater. The Cr(VI) removal percentage increased with the FeBC dose, which achieved a removal of 99.5% at 8.0 g/L FeBC. Increasing the solution pH from 2 to 10 slightly reduced Cr(VI) adsorption by 6.6%. Coexisting ions such as Ca2+, Na+ and Cl− inhibited the removal of Cr(VI); the removal rate decreased to 60% at their concentration of 0.25 mol/L. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics were better described by the Langmuir isotherm and pseudo-second-order kinetic models, respectively. Through scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray, the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method, Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the analysis revealed that FeBC with iron oxides loaded onto its surface had more active sites than BC; the surface functional groups changed; the removal of Cr(VI) by FeBC was mainly attributed to electrostatic adsorption; the redox reaction of Cr, and Fe loaded onto BC enhanced Cr(VI) reduction process. FeBC showed a good removal performance on actual industrial wastewater with the concentration of both total Cr and Cr(VI) meeting the integrated wastewater discharge standard of China.
Active Flutter Suppression and Aeroelastic Response of Functionally Graded Multilayer Graphene Nanoplatelet Reinforced Plates with Piezoelectric Patch
Authors: Chen Jie , Han Ruofan , Liu Dekun , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates the aeroelastic flutter and vibration reduction of functionally graded (FG) multilayer graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs) reinforced composite plates with piezoelectric patch subjected to supersonic flow. Activated by the control voltage, the piezoelectric patch can generate the active mass and active stiffness that can accordingly increase the base plate’s stiffness and mass. As a result, it changes the GPLs reinforced plate’s dynamic characteristics. The motion equation of the plate-piezoelectric system is derived through the Hamilton principle. Based on the modified Halpin–Tsai model, the effects of graphene nanoplatelets weight fraction and distribution pattern on the dynamic behaviors of the plate are numerically studied in detail. The result illustrates that adding a few amounts of grapheme nanoplatelets can effectually enhance the aeroelastic properties of the plates. Two kinds of control strategies, including the displacement and acceleration feedback control, are applied to suppress the occurrence of the flutter of the plate. It shows that the displacement and acceleration feedback control can improve the critical flutter Mach number of the plate by attaching active stiffness and active mass, respectively. Furthermore, the combined displacement and acceleration feedback control has a better control effect than that of considering only one of them.