bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An estimation method for the fuel burn and other performance characteristics of civil transport aircraft during cruise: part 2, determining the aircraft’s characteristic parameters
Authors: Poll D.I.A. , Schumann U.
Published: December 2020

A simple yet physically comprehensive and accurate method for the estimation of the cruise fuel burn rate of turbofan powered transport aircraft operating in a general atmosphere was developed in part 1. The method is built on previously published work showing that suitable normalisation reduces the governing relations to a set of near-universal curves. However, to apply the method to a specific aircraft, values must be assigned to six independent parameters and the more accurate these values are the more accurate the estimates will be. Unfortunately, some of these parameters rarely appear in the public domain. Consequently, a scheme for their estimation is developed herein using basic aerodynamic theory and data correlations. In addition, the basic method is extended to provide estimates for cruise lift-to-drag ratio, engine thrust and engine overall efficiency. This step requires the introduction of two more independent parameters, increasing the total number from six to eight. An error estimate and sensitivity analysis indicates that, in the aircraft’s normal operating range and using the present results, estimates of fuel burn rate are expected to be in error by no more than 5% in the majority of cases. Initial estimates of the characteristic parameters have been generated for 53 aircraft types and engine combinations and a table is provided.
Nudge/sludge symmetry: on the relationship between nudge and sludge and the resulting ontological, normative and transparency implications
Authors: MILLS STUART
Published: December 2020

A recent development within nudge theory is the concept of sludge, which imposes frictions on decision-making. Nascent literature adopts a normative interpretation of sludge: nudge good, sludge bad. However, this normative interpretation leaves much to be desired. A clear definition and treatment of sludge remains absent from this literature, as is a complete understanding of ‘frictions’. Furthermore, the relationship between nudges and sludges is unclear. This paper proposes the concept of nudge/sludge symmetry in an attempt to advance the conceptual understanding of sludge. Building from the definition of a nudge, three types of friction permissible under nudge theory are identified: hedonic, social and obscurant. Sludge is then positioned, in terms of frictions, relative to nudge: nudges decrease relative frictions, sludges increase relative frictions. A consequence of this proposition is nudge/sludge symmetry – where a nudge decreases the frictions associated with a specific option, sludge is simultaneously imposed on all other options available to a decision-maker. Nudge/sludge symmetry subsequently challenges the normative interpretation of sludge, and so a new framework drawing on the literature on nudges in the private sector is offered, with the choice architect placed at the centre. This new approach to sludge and emphasis on the role of the choice architect, in turn, reaffirms the importance of transparency in public policy interventions.
Student absenteeism in high schools: factors to consider
Authors: Özcan Mehmet
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to investigate the reasons for school absenteeism among students studying at different types of high schools, and school counsellors’ practices and proposed solutions for reducing school absenteeism. This was a qualitative research conducted with a phenomenological design. The study group was formed using criterion sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods. The research was conducted in Turkey during the 2018–2019 academic year with 21 school counsellors working at different types of high schools and having at least 5 years of experience. The school counsellors were asked four questions on school absenteeism using a semistructured interview form. Each interview took 30–45 minutes and interview notes were taken synchronously. According to the research findings, poor academic outcomes, parental involvement, school management and school schedules, as well as health issues and a lack of social activities are the main factors influencing school absenteeism. Potential solutions that can be offered by school counsellors include increasing family involvement, improving the school climate, addressing health issues, planning new social activities and offering flexible syllabus options for students.
“Logrolling” in Antarctic governance: Limits and opportunities
Authors: McGee Jeffrey , Arpi Bruno , Jackson Andrew
Published: December 2020

The Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) is considered a successful example of international governance as it has managed tensions over sovereignty claims, avoided militarisation and dealt with marine resources and environmental protection. Recently, China’s influence and assertiveness in many international institutions have significantly grown. What effect this shift in the international politics will have upon Antarctic governance remains to be seen. However, to further thinking on this issue we explore two current case studies that reveal pressure points within the ATS. First, in the Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources, Australia has proposed marine protected areas off East Antarctica, to which China and several other states have objected. Second, in the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meetings, China has proposed special management arrangements for the area around the “Kunlun” station, to which Australia and several other states have objected. Negotiation theory suggests “logrolling” (i.e. trade of mutual decision-making support across issue areas) can be an effective strategy to avoid diplomatic deadlocks. We therefore consider the merits of a logrolling strategy for the above issues. We find that while a logrolling strategy in the ATS might facilitate short-term diplomatic success, it would carry significant risks, including the weakening of existing norms.
Co-Creation in an era of Welfare Conditionality – Lessons from Denmark
Authors: LARSEN FLEMMING , CASWELL DORTE
Published: December 2020

Welfare conditionality, and the underlying understanding of unemployment because of lack of motivation, has been widely criticized. This article analyses if and how more co-created services can be a pathway to address some of these challenges. As Denmark currently is moving towards a softening of welfare conditionality for the vulnerable unemployed, and local authorities try to develop models ‘in between’ welfare conditionality and genuine user involvement, this constitute a good case for analysing this question. The analysis build on comprehensive ethnographic data from a four-year research- and innovation project in six Danish municipalities. The employment services in the project have tried to design new strategies involving clients in the development and implementation of services. Among other things, this includes developing integrated services, qualifying the meeting and the talk between front-line workers and clients, engaging the employer side and NGO’s outside the public services and promoting other measures to ensure real involvement of the citizens in the processes. The analysis lists some of the potentials and pitfalls in these innovative processes and reflects upon the feasibility of such new type of co-created services.
Needs, barriers and facilitators of older adults towards eHealth in general practice: a qualitative study
Authors: Vergouw Johannes William , Smits-Pelser Hanneke , Kars Marijke C. , van Houwelingen Thijs , van Os-Medendorp Harmieke , Kort Helianthe , Bleijenberg Nienke
Published: December 2020

Background:

The strain on health care services is increasing due to an ageing population and the increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions. eHealth could contribute to optimise effective and efficient care to older adults with one or more chronic health conditions in the general practice.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to identify the needs, barriers and facilitators amongst community-dwelling older adults (60+) suffering from one or more chronic health conditions, in using online eHealth applications to support general practice services.

Methods:

A qualitative study, using semi-structured followed by think-aloud interviews, was conducted in the Netherlands. The semi-structured interviews, supported by an interview guide were conducted and analysed thematically. The think-aloud method was used to collect data about the cognitive process while the participant was completing a task within online eHealth applications. Verbal analysis according to the Chi approach was conducted to analyse the think-aloud interviews.

Findings:

A total of n = 19 older adults with a mean age of 73 years participated. The ability to have immediate contact with the GP on important health issues was identified as an important need. Identified barriers were non-familiarity with the online eHealth applications and a mismatch of user health needs. The low computer experience resulted in non-familiarity with the online eHealth applications. Faltering applications resulted in participants refusing to participate in the use of online eHealth applications. Convenience, efficiency and the instant availability of eHealth via applications were identified as important facilitators.

Conclusion:

To improve the use and acceptability of eHealth applications amongst older adults in the general practice, the applications should be tailored to meet individual needs. More attention should be given to improving the user-friendliness of these applications and to the promotion of the benefits such as facilitating older adults independent living for longer.
Perception and risk of Covid-19 and climate change: investigating analogies in a common framework
Authors: Pasini Antonello , Mazzocchi Fulvio
Published: December 2020

This paper investigates analogies in the dynamics of Covid-19 pandemic and climate change. A comparison of their common features (such as nonlinearity and inertia) and differences helps us to achieve a correct scientific perception of both situations, increasing the chances of actions for their solutions. Besides, applying to both the risk equation provides different angles to analyse them, something that may result useful especially at the policy level. It shows that not only short-term interventions are needed, but also long-term strategies involving some structural changes. More specifically, it also shows that, even if climate change is probably more critical and long-lasting than the Covid-19 crisis, we still have, at least currently, more options for reducing its related risk.
Long noncoding RNA HOXA-AS2 functions as an oncogene by binding to EZH2 and suppressing LATS2 in acute myeloid leukemia (AML)
Authors: Feng Yubin , Hu Shuang , Li Lanlan , Peng Xiaoqing , Chen Feihu
Published: December 2020

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is the most common hematological malignancy in the world. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in the development of physiology and pathology. Many reports have shown that lncRNA HOXA cluster antisense RNA 2 (HOXA-AS2) is a carcinogen and plays an important role in many tumors, but little is known about its role in AML. The aim of this study was to explore the potential mechanism and role of HOXA-AS2 in AML. HOXA-AS2 was upregulated in AML cell lines and tissues, and the overexpression of HOXA-AS2 is negatively correlated with the survival of patients. Silencing HOXA-AS2 can inhibit the proliferation and induce differentiation of AML cells in vitro and in vivo. Overexpressing HOXA-AS2 showed the opposite result. Moreover, more in-depth mechanism studies showed that carcinogenicity of HOXA-AS2 exerted mainly through binding with the epigenetic inhibitor Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) and then inhibiting the expression of Large Tumor Suppressor 2 (LATS2). Taken together, our findings highlight the important role of HOXA-AS2 in AML, suggesting that HOXA-AS2 may be an effective therapeutic target for patients with AML.
A novel circular RNA, circXPO1, promotes lung adenocarcinoma progression by interacting with IGF2BP1
Authors: Huang Qi , Guo Haifa , Wang Shaodong , Ma Yi , Chen Haiming , Li Hao , Li Jiawei , Li Xiao , Yang Fan , Qiu Mantang , Zhao Song , Wang Jun
Published: December 2020

Studies have demonstrated that noncoding RNAs play important roles in various types of cancer; however, noncoding RNAs derived from regions of genomic alterations have rarely been explored, especially for circular RNAs (circRNA). Previously, we found several circRNAs were upregulated in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) tumor tissues by RNA sequencing. Here, we characterized a novel circRNA, circXPO1, in LUAD, which is derived from a well-established cancer therapeutic target, XPO1. circXPO1, is formed by back-splicing of exon 3 and exon 4 of XPO1 gene. circXPO1 was highly expressed in LUAD tissues compared with paired adjacent non-tumor tissues, and high circXPO1 expression correlated with worse overall survival. circXPO1 expression was positively correlated with the XPO1 gene copy number. Mechanically, circXPO1 could bind with IGF2BP1 and enhance CTNNB1 mRNA stability, and subsequently promote LUAD progression. In a LUAD patient-derived xenograft model, intratumoural injection of cholesterol-conjugated siRNA specifically targeting circXPO1 efficiently suppressed tumor growth. To summary, these results suggest that circXPO1 is critical for LUAD progression and may serve as a biomarker for poor prognosis and a therapeutic target. On the other hand, the functional roles of noncoding transcripts derived from coding genes should be re-evaluated.
Gelatine nanostructured lipid carrier encapsulated FGF15 inhibits autophagy and improves recovery in spinal cord injury
Authors: Ying Yibo , Xiang Guangheng , Chen Min , Ye Jiahui , Wu Qiuji , Dou Haicheng , Sheng Sunren , Zhu Sipin
Published: December 2020

Gelatine nanostructured lipid carriers (GNLs) have attracted increasing attention due to their biodegradable status and capacity to capture various biologically active compounds. Many studies demonstrated that fibroblast growth factor therapies after spinal cord injury (SCI) can be used in the future for the recovery of neurons. In this study, the therapeutic effects of GNL-encapsulated fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) and FGF15 were compared in SCI. The FGF15-GNLs had 88.17 ± 1.22% encapsulation efficiency and 4.82 ± 0.12% loading capacity. The effects of FGF15-GNLs and FGF15 were assessed based on the Basso–Beattie–Bresnahan (BBB) locomotion scale, inclined plane test and footprint analysis. Immunofluorescent staining was used to identify the expression of autophagy-associated proteins, GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) and neurofilament 200 (NF200). FGF15-GNLs use enhanced the repair after SCI compared to the effect of FGF15. The suppression of autophagy-associated proteins LC3-II and beclin-1, and p62 enhancement by FGF15-GNLs treatment were more pronounced. Thus, the effects of FGF15-GNLs on the recovery after SCI are related to the inhibition of autophagy and glial scar, and promotion of nerve regeneration in SCI.
A high-efficiency bioinspired photoelectric-electromechanical integrated nanogenerator
Authors: Liu Sicheng , Liu Xi , Zhou Guilin , Qin Fuxiang , Jing Mingxing , Li Lin , Song Wenlong , Sun Zhuangzhi
Published: December 2020

Currently, the key challenge in triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) is how to efficiently enhance the surface charge density. Here, a new strategy is proposed to increase the surface charge density by comprehensively utilizing solar energy and tidal energy, and a bioinspired photoelectric-electromechanical integrated TENG (Pem-iTENG) is developed. This enhancement of output performance is greatly attributed to the accumulation of photoelectrons from photocatalysis and the triboelectric negative charges from contact electrification. Pem-iTENG shows a maximal open-circuit voltage of 124.2 V and a maximal short-circuit current density of 221.6 μA cm−2 under tidal wave and sunlight, an improvement by nearly a factor of 10 over that of reported TENGs based on solid-liquid contact electrification. More importantly, it exhibits a high energy conversion efficiency according to the evaluation method for solar cells. This work provides insights into development of high-performance TENGs by using different natural energy sources.
Knowledge graph‐based method for identifying topological structure of low‐voltage distribution network
Authors: Zepu Gao , Yongjian Luo , Ziwei Xu , Yilan Yu , Lianmei Zhang
Published: December 2020

The correct topological relationship is crucial in the low‐voltage distribution network, as the actual topological structure of the low‐voltage distribution network changes frequently and tremendously due to the need of operation and maintenance, and it cannot be correctly reflected upon failure in timely updating of data, low circulation, poor quality etc. therefore, it is necessary to identify the topology. The knowledge graph technology can clearly reflect the existing relationship between data, deducing and mining hidden knowledge, suitable for topology identification of the low‐voltage distribution network. In the study, the knowledge graph technology was employed for topology identification: firstly, analyse the construction method of the knowledge graph, integrate data in multiple low‐voltage distribution network information systems based on the knowledge graph technology, deduce missing data, find out the relationship between data, and then build the knowledge graph of low‐voltage distribution network topological structure, and finally, based on ‘Typical Design Specification of Low‐Voltage Distribution Network Infrastructure Project’ and semantic segmentation, identify the user–transformer relationship in low‐voltage distribution network information system. The test results of the examples were very satisfactory, showing the theoretical values and practical application values of the identification method proposed in this study.
Methodology of interdisciplinary research on the example of scientific research of the human genome
Authors: Doronina N. , Semilyutina N. , Tsirina M.
Published: December 2020

The problems of methodology of scientific research activity are actual to-day due to discoveries in Physics, Biology and Cosmology Due to widespread international cooperation and advances in the field of genomics (especially in sequence analysis), as well as major advances in computing technology, a «rough draft» of the genome was finished in 2000. This first available rough draft assembly of the genome was completed by the Genome Bioinformatics Group at the University of California. The OECD Project «Human Genome» is the first experience of application of methodology of scientific research activity based on mathematic modeling and cipher technology. The institutions, companies, and laboratories, engaged in OECD Human Genome Project, form a system based on laws and regulations, treaties and agreements, contracts and regulatory orders. This Model of methodological approach might have been used in other interdisciplinary scientific research activities. The study was carried out with the financial support of the Russian Foundation for Basic Research in the framework of research project No. 18-29-14025 on the topic: “Legal regulation of genomic research and the use of their results: comparative legal aspect of research».
Reproductive human rights: General legal support and implementation in the field of criminal justice
Authors: Titko Ivan , Polkhovska Inna
Published: December 2020

The unsatisfactory demographic situation in European countries, in particular the reduction of fertility, actualizes the issue of reproductive rights. Reproductive rights include the human ability to make free and independent decisions about their reproductive health, including the birth of children, the time and intervals between their birth, the right to decide on procreation without discrimination, threats and violence, as well as recognition of the right to receive relevant information. The article is devoted to the analysis of some problematic general theoretic, criminal law and criminal procedure aspects in the field of reproductive rights. In particular, issues of assisted reproductive technologies application, their regulation at the international and national levels, as well as in the practice of the European Court of Human Rights (hereinafter – ECHR) are considered in the article. Special attention is paid to the specificity of the legal and practical factors of surrogacy.
Criminological aspects of the spread, containment and prevention of COVID-19
Authors: Vilks Andrejs , Kipane Aldona
Published: December 2020

There are many facets of the current pandemic to face and learn about. In addition to medical, political, economic, socio-psychological and other aspects it would be necessary to identify and study criminological aspects too. Relevant approach includes determining the origin of COVID-19, tendencies in the spread of the virus, interaction between epidemiological, economic and criminogenic processes, control systems of pandemic situations and resources, including law enforcement responses to the virus, and socio-economic and criminogenic consequences of COVID-19. The criminological approach in general includes the study of the causes and development of socially unfavourable phenomena, their determining factors, as well as the development of a methodology for improving preventive measures. Particular attention will be paid by the authors to these aspects in their study.
Cloud-based integrated socio-sanitary care e-services in Croatia: Lessons learned
Authors: Ljubi Igor , Belani Hrvoje , Belosevic Romac Suzana
Published: December 2020

Among many other services, modern governments offer both healthcare and social care to their citizens. Traditionally built in a silo structure and often using separate funding schemes, these two services offer limited possibilities for integration. Therefore, a novel approach is needed which will enable the integrated provisioning of both social and healthcare services to the citizens. This paper describes a platform for collaboration on multiple levels, provided to connect actors from healthcare and social care services – from primary care medical doctors to hospitals, and from home caregivers and/or family members to emergency centres for the elderly. Utilizing the cloud-based ICT tool, we have developed an integrated e-care model and introduced personalised care pathways for the elderly people suffering from various health problems (including heart failure, cardio-vascular diseases, diabetes and mental health issues). This model employs a patient-centric approach to care delivery, giving the patient (or the person acting on behalf of the patient) in power to control (and to share) any data relevant to treat patient's health condition. For the socio-sanitary care providers the benefit is the ability to influence clinical outcomes by remotely monitor and coordinate care initiatives. Using this approach, government has an effective aid to meet quality thresholds, generate clinical outcome metrics and improve satisfaction of the citizens using health and social care services.
The Role of Brown Adipose Tissue in the Development and Treatment of
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis: An Exploratory Gene Expression Study in
Mice
Authors: De Munck Toon J.I. , Xu Pan , Vanderfeesten Brechtje L.J. , Elizalde Montserrat , Masclee Ad A.M. , Nevens Frederik , Cassiman David , Schaap Frank G. , Jonkers Daisy M.A.E. , Verbeek Jef
Published: December 2020

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) might be a beneficial mediator in the development
and treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We aim to evaluate the
gene expression of BAT activity-related genes during the development and the
dietary and surgical treatment of NASH. BAT was collected from male
C57BL/6J mice that received a high fat-high sucrose diet
(HF-HSD) or a normal chow diet (NCD) for 4 and 20 weeks
(n=8–9 per dietary group and timepoint) and from mice that
underwent dietary intervention (return to NCD) (n=8), roux-en-y
gastric bypass (RYGB) (n=6), or sham procedure (n=6) after
12 weeks HF-HSD. Expression of BAT genes involved in lipid metabolism (Cd36
and Cpt1b; p<0.05) and energy expenditure (Ucp1 and Ucp3;
p<0.05) were significantly increased after 4 weeks HF-HSD compared
with NCD, whereas in the occurrence of NASH after 20 weeks HF-HSD no
difference was observed. We observed no differences in gene expression
regarding lipid metabolism or energy expenditure at 8 weeks after dietary
intervention (no NASH) compared with HF-HSD mice (NASH), nor in mice that
underwent RYGB compared with SHAM. However, dietary intervention and RYGB
both decreased the BAT gene expression of inflammatory cytokines (Il1b,
Tnf-α and MCP-1; p<0.05). Gene expression of the
batokine neuregulin 4 was significantly decreased after 20 weeks
HF-HSD (p<0.05) compared with NCD, but was restored by dietary
intervention and RYGB (p<0.05). In conclusion, BAT is hallmarked by
dynamic alterations in the gene expression profile during the development of
NASH and can be modulated by dietary intervention and bariatric surgery.
Safety and feasibility of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for duodenal neoplasm: a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Nunobe Souya , Ri Motonari , Yamazaki Kimiyasu , Uraoka Masanao , Ohata Ken , Kitazono Iwao , Terashima Masanori , Yamagata Yukinori , Tanabe Satoshi , Abe Nobutsugu , Tsuji Toshikatsu , Niimi Keiko , Kawakubo Hirofumi , Tsukada Tomoya , Kitashiro Shuji , Ishizuka Naoki , Hiki Naoki ,   Society for the Study of Laparoscopic Endoscopic Cooperative Surgery
Published: December 2020

Background A delayed perforation can often occur after endoscopic treatment for duodenal neoplasms and may be fatal due to leakage of pancreatic and bile juices. We aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of laparoscopic and endoscopic cooperative surgery for duodenal neoplasms (D-LECS) in a multicenter, retrospective study.

Methods The clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of 206 patients with duodenal neoplasms in whom D-LECS had initially been attempted at one of 14 institutions were reviewed retrospectively.

Results Of the 206 patients, 63 (30.6 %), 128 (62.1 %), and 15 patients (7.3 %) had lesions at the bulb, second portion, and third portion of the duodenum, respectively. The rates of en bloc and R0 resections during D-LECS were 96.1 % and 95.1 %, respectively. Intraoperative and delayed perforations occurred in 10 (4.9 %) and 5 patients (2.4 %), respectively. No cases of recurrence were observed. Surgical duration of ≥ 180 minutes was an independent risk factor for postoperative complications.

Conclusions The results revealed that D-LECS was performed with oncological safety and technical feasibility.
Fluorescence properties of nonconductive organic small molecule nano-films prepared by DC sputtering method
Authors: Li Siqi , Rao Yunpeng , Pan Liangliang , Chen Yongjun , Zhai Xiaoyu , Ding Yufeng , Wang Yun , Xiong Jinping , Meng Qingyun
Published: December 2020

The key to preparing nano-films by DC (Direct Current) sputtering is to prepare the film materials into targets. Organic small molecule fluorescent materials (such as 1, 4-Bis(2-cyanostyryl) benzene, to be noted as ER-I) are usually not conductive, and it is not possible to make the elements as targets. Therefore, there are some difficulties in preparing the organic materials into films by DC sputtering. In this paper, we fabricated ER-I nano-films by using the DC sputtering method, and their fluorescence properties are significantly different from those of powder materials. The fluorescence emission spectra of the films prepared by the DC sputtering method have an apparent bimodal morphology. Compared with the ER-I powder material, the fluorescence emission peak has a blue shift of 5 nm and 22 nm. To study the luminescence mechanism of the films, we further investigated the fluorescence properties of the films after thermal treatment and analyzed the structure and surface morphology of the films by XRD and SEM. This paper provides a new idea and method for the preparation of organic nano-films and has a potential application value in the preparation of organic light-emitting films and soft optics devices.
Impact of cooperative jamming of dual stealth aircraft formation on detection performance of monopulse radar
Authors: Bao Lei , Li Fengrui , Di Xiang , Chen Peng , Xiao Meng
Published: December 2020

To effectively test the detection performance of the monopulse radar under cooperative jamming of dual stealth aircraft formation, a blinking jamming model based on the interval of time-varying dual-aircraft formation is established for the first time in this study. By geometric modeling of the blinking jamming mode of the dual-aircraft formation, the authors solved the equivalent time-varying dynamic radar cross section of the penetration operation of the dual-aircraft formation; then, by taking the signal-to-interference ratio of the aircraft fuselage target echo in the actual formation as a parametric variable, we derived the equations for instantaneous detection distance, instantaneous detection probability, and cumulative detection probability of the monopulse radar in the formation projectile, and these equations were applicable to calculation under the actual jamming mode of dual-aircraft formation. Through simulation, the authors concluded for the first time that as the supersonic endurance speed increased, releasing jamming could reduce the radar detection probability considerably by more than 60%, while releasing projectiles could increase the formation’s risk of being detected by the radar by 30.37%. Thus, to effectively reduce the stability of the radar’s detection and tracking performance, the jamming power of the dual stealth aircraft formation should be no smaller than 0.5 kW and the signal gain of the formation should be no less than 20 dB.
Effects of pretexturization chemical processing on the optical and morphological properties of solar-grade monocrystalline silicon wafers
Authors: Rahman Md. Mahfuzur , Ghosh Subir C. , Basher Mohammad Khairul , Haque Mohammad Abu Sayid , Hossain Khandker Saadat
Published: December 2020

Surface texturization is a route to improving the efficiency of silicon solar cells by enhancing their light trapping ability. In this paper, solar-grade, monocrystalline, unpolished, silicon wafers were chemically processed via different routes before texturization. The effect of this pre-texturization processing on the morphological evolution with corresponding changes in optical properties has been systematically studied with a scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscope, and UV-Vis spectrophotometer. It has been found that the uniformity and size distribution of pyramid structures, as well as the reflectance of the textured surfaces, depend on the pre-textured chemical processing. Moreover, it has also been found that etching the oxide layer with HF prior to texturization does not affect the optical properties of textured silicon substrates.
Energy deposited in the COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 molecule by beams of low energy electrons
Authors: Quiñonez F , Ospina-Henao P A
Published: December 2020

In this work we use the software GEANT4 release 10.6.2 to simulate the experimental setup consisting of a monoenergetic beam of electrons hitting on a molecule of COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 with protein database identifier: 6vsb. After that we have found the kinetic energy values for the beam, such that the electrons can deposit their maximum amount of energy in the 6vsb molecule. For these kinetic energy values, we have also estimated the electric currents for the beam in vacuum. At the same time, we analysed the fraction of electrons that hit the 6vsb molecule which give us the efficiency of a thought medical treatment. With this early analysis, we aim to understand the physical properties of the coronavirus and set the basis for future analysis involving more molecules from the protein database.
Exhaustive similarity search on a many-core architecture for finger-vein massive identification
Authors: Guidet S , Barrientos R J , Hernández-García R , Frati F E
Published: December 2020

In massive biometric identification systems, response times mainly depends on the database searching algorithms. Thus, in large databases, an increment in the simultaneous queries traffic becomes a critical factor. This paper proposes an algorithm based on the use of a graphic processing unit to solve the exhaustive similarity search for the mass identification of finger veins, using the binary pattern descriptor of the local vertical line and the Hamming distance. The proposed approach reduces the computation time of the searching process over high query traffic by solving each query with a different processing block. The proposed method allows the identification of individuals in a database of 1 million elements, which is the largest database used for finger-vein identification. Experimental results show that our proposed method resolves up to 28 queries simultaneously (over a database of one million individuals) within a time lower than 3 seconds and achieving a speed-up of 283x. To our knowledge, our work is the first implementation of finger-vein recognition on a general-purpose graphics processing unit, which is the main contribution of this document.
Design of an automated solar tracker for teaching astronomy and mechatronic engineering
Authors: González Pérez J M , Arceo Díaz S , Bricio Barrios E E , Pineda Torres J A , Ortega Valencia J C , Moreno Peña J R
Published: December 2020

Astronomy is one of the sciences that attracts a large number of people, because of the celestial bodies and phenomena that can be observed, such as the moon, planets, constellations and the sun during the day. Telescopes, the main observation tool employed for astronomical observation, are often not very accessible for the majority of the population, due to their cost. This problem has been addressed through the design of low-cost three-dimensional printed telescopes or the use of digital cameras and cell phones with filters suitable for this purpose. This work describes the components and building of an automatized light tracker that can be coupled to a digital camera, protected by a white light filter, to emulate a low-cost solar telescope. The resulting device can also be operated manually, serving as a teaching tool for astronomy that illustrates how mechatronics and programming can be employed for scientific outreach. Aided by a digital camera, the robotic solar tracker was used by students to observe and record the 2019’s Mercury transit.
Computational estimation from a statistical physics approach and its contributions to the Covid-19 in Colombia
Authors: Ramírez-Carvajal L , Puerto-López K , Medina-Delgado B
Published: December 2020

The objective of this article is to present a computational estimate from a statistical physics approach and its contributions to Covid-19 in Colombia. Based on the daily data of contagions, recoveries and deaths, during the months of March to July, the estimation of the behavior of the epidemic was made using the nonlinear regression method with adjustment of curves by minimum squares. Highlighting the benefits that this method presents in the study of physical phenomena, it was used in the present research developing two types of modeling: exponential and Gaussian, and with these some predictions were made. The coefficients of determination of the exponential model were: 0.9641 for contagions, 0.9400 for recoveries and 0.9788 for deaths, and those of the Gaussian model were: 0.9799 for contagions, 0.9606 for recoveries and 0.9894 for deaths, showing a good correlation between the models and the real behavior of the pandemic, being the Gaussian one, the most approximate. This was also evidenced by comparing the prognosis of both models with the actual data for the first 13 days of August, concluding that the pandemic is beginning to mitigate, and the curve is flattening out.
Bioactive decellularized cardiac extracellular matrix-based hydrogel as a sustained-release platform for human adipose tissue-derived stromal cell-secreted factors
Authors: Liguori Tácia Tavares Aquinas , Liguori Gabriel Romero , van Dongen Joris A , Moreira Luiz Felipe Pinho , Harmsen Martin Conrad
Published: December 2020

The administration of trophic factors (TFs) released by mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) as therapy for cardiovascular diseases requires a delivery vehicle capable of binding and releasing the TF in a sustained manner. We hypothesized that hydrogels derived from cardiac decellularized extracellular matrix (cardiac dECM) bind MSC secretome-derived TF and release these in a sustained fashion. Pig-derived ventricular tissue was decellularized, milled to powder, digested, and assembled as a hydrogel upon warming at 37 °C. The conditioned medium (CMed) of adipose tissue-derived stromal cells (ASC) was collected, concentrated, and incorporated into the hydrogel at 1×, 10×, and 100× the original concentration. The release of 11 ASC-secreted factors (angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-2, fibroblast growth factor-1, hepatocyte growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor-AA, vascular endothelial growth factor, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, CCL2, and matrix metalloproteinase-1) from hydrogels was immune assessed. Bioactivity was determined by endothelial cell proliferation, function, and assessment of endothelial mesenchymal transition. We showed that dECM hydrogels could be loaded with human ASC-secreted TFs, which are released in a sustained manner for several days subsequently. Different trophic factors had different release kinetics, which correlates with the initial concentration of CMed in the hydrogel. We observed that the more concentrated was the hydrogel, the more inflammation-related cytokines, and the less pro-regenerative TFs were released. Finally, we showed that the factors secreted by the hydrogel are biologically active as these influence cell behavior. The use of dECM hydrogels as a platform to bind and release paracrine factors secreted by (mesenchymal) cells is a potential alternative in the context of cardiovascular regeneration.
Managed aquifer recharge as a drought mitigation strategy in heavily-stressed aquifers
Authors: Wendt D E , Van Loon A F , Scanlon B R , Hannah D M
Published: December 2020

Increasing meteorological drought frequency and rising water demand drive groundwater exploitation beyond sustainable limits. In heavily-stressed aquifers mitigation strategies, such as Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR), are needed to restore depleted groundwater storage. MAR is also designed to overcome short dry periods. However, wider impacts of MAR as a drought mitigation strategy remain to be quantified. The objective of this study is to assess impacts of MAR in heavily-stressed aquifers using a case study of the Central Valley in California (USA). The novelty of this study lies in its analytical approach based on long-term observational data of precipitation, groundwater levels, and MAR operations. The impact of MAR operations is assessed regionally and for different temporal scales. Results show spatially-coherent clusters of groundwater level time series in the Central Valley representing three main patterns that manifest themselves in different groundwater drought characteristics and long-term trends. The first regional pattern shows lengthened groundwater droughts and declining groundwater levels over time, indicating effects of over abstraction in aquifer sections without MAR. The second regional pattern shows reduced groundwater drought duration and magnitude related to periodically rising groundwater levels, showing short-term MAR impacts. The third regional pattern shows alleviated groundwater droughts and groundwater levels show a long-term rise, representing long-term MAR impacts. Mitigated groundwater droughts and long-term rise in groundwater levels reveal the value of long-term MAR operations and their contribution toward sustainable groundwater management. Increased institutional support is recommended to ensure longevity of MAR and thereby amplify its success as regional drought mitigation strategy in heavily-stressed aquifers.
Renovascular Hypertension Induces Myocardial Mitochondrial Damage, Contributing to Cardiac Injury and Dysfunction in Pigs With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Nargesi Arash Aghajani , Farah Mohamed C , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Zhang Lei , Tang Hui , Jordan Kyra L , Saadiq Ishran M , Lerman Amir , Lerman Lilach O , Eirin Alfonso
Published: December 2020

BACKGROUND

Renovascular hypertension (RVH) often manifest with metabolic syndrome (MetS) as well. Coexisting MetS and hypertension increases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but the mechanisms underlying cardiac injury remain unknown. We hypothesized that superimposition of MetS induces myocardial mitochondrial damage, leading to cardiac injury and dysfunction in swine RVH.

METHODS

Pigs were studied after 16 weeks of diet-induced MetS with or without RVH (unilateral renal artery stenosis), and Lean controls (n = 6 each). Systolic and diastolic cardiac function were assessed by multidetector CT, and cardiac mitochondrial morphology (electron microscopy) and myocardial function in tissue and isolated mitochondria.

RESULTS

Body weight was similarly higher in MetS groups vs. Lean. RVH groups achieved significant stenosis and developed hypertension. Mitochondrial matrix density and adenosine triphosphate production were lower and H2O2 production higher in RVH groups vs. Lean and MetS. Lean + RVH (but not MetS + RVH) activated mitophagy, which was associated with decreased myocardial expression of mitophagy-related microRNAs. MetS groups exhibited higher numbers of intermitochondrial junctions, which could have prevented membrane depolarization/activation of mitophagy in MetS + RVH. Cardiac fibrosis, hypertrophy (increased left ventricular muscle mass), and diastolic function (decreased E/A ratio) were greater in MetS + RVH vs. Lean + RVH.

CONCLUSIONS

MetS+RVH induces myocardial mitochondrial damage and dysfunction. MetS + RVH failed to activate mitophagy, resulting in greater cardiac remodeling, fibrosis, and diastolic dysfunction. Mitochondrial injury and impaired mitophagy may constitute important mechanisms and therapeutic targets to ameliorate cardiac damage and dysfunction in patients with coexisting MetS and RVH.
Marginal modeling of cluster-period means and intraclass correlations in stepped wedge designs with binary outcomes
Authors: Li Fan , Yu Hengshi , Rathouz Paul J , Turner Elizabeth L , Preisser John S
Published: December 2020

Stepped wedge cluster randomized trials (SW-CRTs) with binary outcomes are increasingly used in prevention and implementation studies. Marginal models represent a flexible tool for analyzing SW-CRTs with population-averaged interpretations, but the joint estimation of the mean and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) can be computationally intensive due to large cluster-period sizes. Motivated by the need for marginal inference in SW-CRTs, we propose a simple and efficient estimating equations approach to analyze cluster-period means. We show that the quasi-score for the marginal mean defined from individual-level observations can be reformulated as the quasi-score for the same marginal mean defined from the cluster-period means. An additional mapping of the individual-level ICCs into correlations for the cluster-period means further provides a rigorous justification for the cluster-period approach. The proposed approach addresses a long-recognized computational burden associated with estimating equations defined based on individual-level observations, and enables fast point and interval estimation of the intervention effect and correlations. We further propose matrix-adjusted estimating equations to improve the finite-sample inference for ICCs. By providing a valid approach to estimate ICCs within the class of generalized linear models for correlated binary outcomes, this article operationalizes key recommendations from the CONSORT extension to SW-CRTs, including the reporting of ICCs.
Taking a stand against air pollution – the impact on cardiovascular disease
Authors: Brauer Michael , Casadei Barbara , Harrington Robert A , Kovacs Richard , Sliwa Karen ,   the WHF Air Pollution Expert Group, Davaakhuu Narantuya , Hadley Michael , Kass Daniel , Miller Mark , Escamilla Nuñez Maria Consuelo , Prabhakaran Dorairaj , Su Ta-Chen , Vaartjes Ilonca C H , Vedanthan Rajesh
Published: December 2020

Although the attention of the world and the global health community specifically is deservedly focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, other determinants of health continue to have large impacts and may also interact with COVID-19. Air pollution is one crucial example. Established evidence from other respiratory viruses and emerging evidence for COVID-19 specifically indicates that air pollution alters respiratory defense mechanisms leading to worsened infection severity. Air pollution also contributes to co-morbidities that are known to worsen outcomes amongst those infected with COVID-19, and air pollution may also enhance infection transmission due to its impact on more frequent coughing. Yet despite the massive disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are reasons for optimism: broad societal lockdowns have shown us a glimpse of what a future with strong air pollution measures could yield. Thus, the urgency to combat air pollution is not diminished, but instead heightened in the context of the pandemic.
Functional hydrocolloids, gut microbiota and health: picking food additives for personalized nutrition
Authors: Tan Huizi , Nie Shaoping
Published: December 2020

The human gut microbiota respond to particular food components, interact with intestinal mucosa and thereby contribute to health and disease. Key microbiome features are under comprehensive investigation and are likely to be developed as reliable evidence for clinical diagnosis. The underlying mechanisms provide the foundation for assembling bespoke nutritional ingredients, including functional food additives, that may lead to favorable outcomes in facilitating the amelioration of host dysfunction. Functional hydrocolloids serve as multiple food additives with promising application prospects and outstanding adjunctive beneficial characteristics. Therefore, in this review, we introduce the latest advances in the food additives–gut microbiota–host axis by summarizing the physiochemical and physiological properties of a collection of functional hydrocolloids from various sources, describing the functional hydrocolloids-related intestinal commensal markers and deciphering the underlying mechanisms of their beneficial effects, and propose the feasibilities and guidelines for further development of gut microbiota-oriented personalized nutrition.
From baker's yeast to genetically modified budding yeasts: the scientific evolution of bioethanol industry from sugarcane
Authors: Ceccato-Antonini Sandra Regina , Covre Elizabete Aparecida
Published: December 2020

The peculiarities of Brazilian fuel ethanol fermentation allow the entry of native yeasts that may dominate over the starter strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and persist throughout the sugarcane harvest. The switch from the use of baker's yeast as starter to selected budding yeasts obtained by a selective pressure strategy was followed by a wealth of genomic information that enabled the understanding of the superiority of selected yeast strains. This review describes how the process of yeast selection evolved in the sugarcane-based bioethanol industry, the selection criteria and recent advances in genomics that could advance the fermentation process. The prospective use of genetically modified yeast strains, specially designed for increased robustness and product yield, with special emphasis on those obtained by the CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats)–Cas9 (CRISPR-associated protein 9) genome-editing approach, is discussed as a possible solution to confer higher performance and stability to the fermentation process for fuel ethanol production.