bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salt-Induced Stress Impacts the Phytochemical Composition and Aromatic Profile of Three Types of Basil in a Genotype-Dependent Mode
Authors: Ciriello Michele , Cirillo Valerio , Formisano Luigi , De Pascale Stefania , Romano Raffaele , Fusco Giovanna Marta , Nicastro Rosalinda , Carillo Petronia , Kyriacou Marios C. , Soteriou Georgios A. , Rouphael Youssef
Published: May 2023

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is among the most widely used aromatic plants of Lamiaceae, often grown in areas where salinity is an adverse factor. Most studies on the effect of salinity on basil focused on the influence of salt stress on productive traits, while few reported on how it affects the phytochemical composition and the aroma profile. Three basil cultivars (Dark Opal, Italiano Classico, and Purple Ruffles) were grown hydroponically for 34 days with two nutrient solutions that differed in NaCl concentration [no NaCl (Control) and 60 mM NaCl]. Yield, secondary metabolite concentration (β-carotene and lutein), antioxidant activity [1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP)], and aroma profile based on composition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were appraised in response to salinity applications. Salt stress significantly reduced fresh yield in Italiano Classico and Dark Opal by 43.34 and 31.69%, respectively, while no effect was observed in Purple Ruffles. Furthermore, the salt-stress treatment increased β-carotene and lutein concentrations, DPPH, and FRAP activities, and the total nitrogen content of the latter cultivar. CG-MS analysis revealed significant differences in VOCs composition of the basil cultivars, with Italiano Classico and Dark Opal characterized by the predominance of linalool (average 37.52%), which, however, was negatively affected by salinity. In Purple Ruffles, the predominant VOC compound, estragole (79.50%), was not affected by the deleterious effects of NaCl-induced stress.
Composition, Abundance, and Diversity of the Soil Microbiome Associated with the Halophytic Plants Tamarix aphylla and Halopeplis perfoliata on Jeddah Seacoast, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Baeshen Naseebh , Baz Lina , Shami Ashwag , Ashy Ruba , Jalal Rewaa , Abulfaraj Aala , Refai Mohammed , Majeed Mazen , Abuzahrah Samah , Abdelkader Hayam , Baeshen Nabih , Baeshen Mohammed
Published: May 2023

The coast of the Red Sea in Jeddah City is home to a unique microbial community that has adapted to extreme environmental conditions. Therefore, it is essential to characterize the microbial community in this unique microbiome to predict how environmental changes will affect it. The aim of this study was to conduct metagenomic sequencing of 16S rRNA and ITS rRNA genes for the taxonomic classification of the microbial community in soil samples associated with the halophytic plants Tamarix aphylla and Halopeplis perfoliata. Fifteen soil samples were collected in triplicate to enhance robustness and minimize sampling bias. Firstly, to identify novel microbial candidates, the gDNAs were isolated from the saline soil samples surrounding each plant, and then bacterial 16S (V3–V4) and fungal ITS1 regions were sequenced utilizing a high-throughput approach (next-generation sequencing; NGS) on an Illumina MiSeq platform. Quality assessment of the constructed amplicon libraries was conducted using Agilent Bioanalyzer and fluorometric quantification methods. The raw data were processed and analyzed using the Pipeline (Nova Lifetech, Singapore) for bioinformatics analysis. Based on the total number of readings, it was determined that the phylum Actinobacteriota was the most prevalent in the soil samples examined, followed by the phylum Proteobacteria. Based on ITS rRNA gene analysis, the alpha and beta fungal diversity in the studied soil samples revealed that the fungal population is structured into various groups according to the crust (c) and/or rhizosphere (r) plant parts. Fungal communities in the soil samples indicated that Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the two most abundant phyla based on the total amount of sequence reads. Secondly, heat-map analysis of the diversity indices showed that the bacterial alpha diversity, as measured by Shannon, Simpson, and InvSimpson, was associated with soil crust (Hc and Tc enclosing H. perfoliata and T. aphylla, respectively) and that the soil rhizosphere (Hr and Tr) was strongly correlated with bacterial beta diversity. Finally, fungal-associated Tc and Hc samples clustered together, according to observations made using the Fisher and Chao1 methods, and Hr and Tr samples clustered together according to Shannon, Simpson, and InvSimpson analyses. As a result of the soil investigation, potential agents that have been identified could lead to innovative agricultural, medical, and industrial applications.
Large Artificial microRNA Cluster Genes Confer Effective Resistance against Multiple Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Viruses in Transgenic Tomato
Authors: Khalid Annum , Zhang Xi , Ji Huaijin , Yasir Muhammad , Farooq Tariq , Dai Xinyi , Li Feng
Published: May 2023

Tomato yellow leaf curl disease (TYLCD) has become the key limiting factor for the production of tomato in many areas because of the continuous infection and recombination of several tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV)-like species (TYLCLV) which produce novel and destructive viruses. Artificial microRNA (AMIR) is a recent and effective technology used to create viral resistance in major crops. This study applies AMIR technology in two ways, i.e., amiRNA in introns (AMINs) and amiRNA in exons (AMIEs), to express 14 amiRNAs targeting conserved regions in seven TYLCLV genes and their satellite DNA. The resulting pAMIN14 and pAMIE14 vectors can encode large AMIR clusters and their function in silencing reporter genes was validated with transient assays and stable transgenic N. tabacum plants. To assess the efficacy of conferring resistance against TYLCLV, pAMIE14 and pAMIN14 were transformed into tomato cultivar A57 and the resulting transgenic tomato plants were evaluated for their level of resistance to mixed TYLCLV infection. The results suggest that pAMIN14 transgenic lines have a more effective resistance than pAMIE14 transgenic lines, reaching a resistance level comparable to plants carrying the TY1 resistance gene.
Wild vs. Cultivated Zingiber striolatum Diels: Nutritional and Biological Activity Differences
Authors: Yang Jing , Li Yaochen , He Yuxin , He Hongying , Chen Xiaoqi , Liu Tingfu , Zhu Biao
Published: May 2023

Compositional, functional, and nutritional properties are important for the use-value assessments of wild and cultivated edible plants. The aim of this study was to compare the nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, volatile compounds, and potential biological activities of cultivated and wild Zingiber striolatum. Various substances, such as soluble sugars, mineral elements, vitamins, total phenolics, total flavonoids, and volatiles, were measured and analyzed using UV spectrophotometry, ICP-OES, HPLC, and GC-MS methods. The antioxidant capacity of a methanol extract of Z. striolatum, as well as the hypoglycemic abilities of its ethanol and water extracts, were tested. The results showed that the contents of soluble sugar, soluble protein, and total saponin in the cultivated samples were higher, while the wild samples contained higher amounts of K, Na, Se, vitamin C, and total amino acids. The cultivated Z. striolatum also showed a higher antioxidant potential, while the wild Z. striolatum exhibited a better hypoglycemic activity. Thirty-three volatile compounds were identified using GC-MS in two plants, with esters and hydrocarbons being the main volatile compounds. This study demonstrated that both cultivated and wild Z. striolatum have a good nutritional value and biological activity, and can be used as a source of nutritional supplementation or even in medication.
Characteristics of 3D Printed Biopolymers for Applications in High-Voltage Electrical Insulation
Authors: Sekula Robert , Immonen Kirsi , Metsä-Kortelainen Sini , Kuniewski Maciej , Zydroń Paweł , Kalpio Tomi
Published: May 2023

Three-dimensional printing technology is constantly developing and has a wide range of applications; one application is electrical insulation, where the standard technology uses polymer-based filaments. Thermosetting materials (epoxy resins, liquid silicone rubbers) are broadly used as electrical insulation in high-voltage products. In power transformers, however, the main solid insulation is based on cellulosic materials (pressboard, crepe paper, wood laminates). There are a vast variety of transformer insulation components that are produced using the wet pulp molding process. This is a labor-intensive, multi-stage process that requires long drying times. In this paper, a new material, microcellulose-doped polymer, and manufacturing concept for transformer insulation components are described. Our research focuses on bio-based polymeric materials with 3D printability functionalities. A number of material formulations were tested and benchmark products were printed. Extensive electrical measurements were performed to compare transformer components manufactured using the traditional process and 3D printed samples. The results are promising but indicate that further research is still required to improve printing quality.
Polyurethane Recycling: Thermal Decomposition of 1,3-Diphenyl Urea to Isocyanates
Authors: Zamani Shahab , van der Voort Sterre H. E. , Lange Jean-Paul , Kersten Sascha R. A. , Ruiz M. Pilar
Published: May 2023

Substituted urea linkages are formed during the production of polyurethane foam. To chemically recycle polyurethane toward its key monomers via depolymerization (i.e., isocyanate), it is essential to break the urea linkages to form the corresponding monomers, namely, an isocyanate and an amine. This work reports the thermal cracking of a model urea compound (1,3-diphenyl urea, DPU) into phenyl isocyanate and aniline in a flow reactor at different temperatures. Experiments were performed at 350–450 °C, with a continuous feed of a solution of 1 wt.% DPU in GVL. In the temperature range studied, high conversion levels of DPU are achieved (70–90 mol%), with high selectivity towards the desired products (close to 100 mol%) and high average mole balance (∼95 mol%) in all cases.
Novel SMD Component and Module Interconnection and Encapsulation Technique for Textile Substrates Using 3D Printed Polymer Materials
Authors: Kalaš David , Soukup Radek , Řeboun Jan , Radouchová Michaela , Rous Pavel , Hamáček Aleš
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, a range of sensors and actuators can be realized directly in the structure of textile substrates using metal-plated yarns, metal-filament yarns, or functionalized yarns with nanomaterials, such as nanowires, nanoparticles, or carbon materials. However, the evaluation or control circuits still depend upon the use of semiconductor components or integrated circuits, which cannot be currently implemented directly into the textiles or substituted by functionalized yarns. This study is focused on a novel thermo-compression interconnection technique intended for the realization of the electrical interconnection of SMD components or modules with textile substrates and their encapsulation in one single production step using commonly widespread cost-effective devices, such as 3D printers and heat-press machines, intended for textile applications. The realized specimens are characterized by low resistance (median 21 mΩ), linear voltage–current characteristics, and fluid-resistant encapsulation. The contact area is comprehensively analyzed and compared with the theoretical Holm’s model.
Viscoelastic Response of Elastohydrodynamically Lubricated Compliant Contacts below Glass-Transition Temperature
Authors: Krupka Jiri , Dockal Krystof , Sedlacek Tomas , Rebenda David , Krupka Ivan , Hartl Martin
Published: May 2023

The widespread use of polymers in the high-performance engineering applications brings challenges in the field of liquid lubrication in order to separate the rubbing surfaces by the coherent fluid-film thickness relative to not only the inelastic material response of the polymers. The determination of the mechanical properties by the nanoindentation and the dynamic mechanical analysis represents the key methodology to identify the viscoelastic behavior with respect to the intense frequency and temperature dependance exhibited by polymers. The fluid-film thickness was examined by the optical chromatic interferometry on the rotational tribometer in the ball-on-disc configuration. Based on the experiments performed, first, the complex modulus and the damping factor for the PMMA polymer describing the frequency and temperature dependence were obtained. Afterwards, the central as well as minimum fluid-film thickness were investigated. The results revealed the operation of the compliant circular contact in the transition region very close to the boundary between the Piezoviscous-elastic and Isoviscous-elastic modes of the elastohydrodynamic lubrication regime, and a significant deviation of the fluid-film thickness from the prediction models for both modes in dependence on the inlet temperature.
Tensile Strength Statistics of High-Performance Mono- and Multifilament Polymeric Materials: On the Validity of Normality
Authors: Boiko Yuri M. , Marikhin Vyacheslav A. , Myasnikova Liubov P.
Published: May 2023

Recently, the statistical distributions of the mechanical properties, including tensile strength (σ), of several high-strength high-modulus oriented polymeric materials have been analyzed by employing the Weibull’s and Gaussian statistical models. However, a more detailed comprehensive analysis of the distributions of the mechanical properties of these materials aimed to estimate the validity of normality by employing some other statistical approaches, is needed. In the present work, the σ statistical distributions of the seven high-strength oriented polymeric materials based on the polymers with three different chain architectures and conformations, ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), polyamide 6 (PA 6), and polypropylene (PP), each in the form of both single and multifilament fibers, have been investigated using graphical methods, such as the normal probability and quantile–quantile plots, and six selected formal normality tests, such as the Kolmogorov–Smirnov, Shapiro–Wilk, Lilliefors, Anderson–Darling, D’Agostino–K squared, and Chen–Shapiro tests. It has been found that the conformity of the σ distribution curves to the normal distribution, including the linearity of the normal probability plots, for the materials with lower strengths (σ < 1 GPa, quasi-ductile PA 6- and PP-based materials) is more correct as compared to those for the materials with markedly higher strengths (σ > 4 GPa, quasi-brittle UHMWPE-based materials). The impact of the sample type (single or multifilament fibers) on this behavior turned out to be negligible.
Characterization and Morphology of Nanocomposite Hydrogels with a 3D Network Structure Prepared Using Attapulgite-Enhanced Polyvinyl Alcohol
Authors: Tsou Chi-Hui , Shui Yu-Jie , Du Juan , Yao Wei-Hua , Wu Chin-San , Suen Maw-Cherng , Chen Shuang
Published: May 2023

In this investigation, purified attapulgite (ATT) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were utilized to fabricate nanocomposite hydrogels and a xerogel, with a focus on studying the impact of minor additions of ATT on the properties of the PVA nanocomposite hydrogels and xerogel. The findings demonstrated that at a concentration of 0.75% ATT, the water content and gel fraction of the PVA nanocomposite hydrogel reached their peak. Conversely, the nanocomposite xerogel with 0.75% ATT reduced its swelling and porosity to the minimum. SEM and EDS analyses revealed that when the ATT concentration was at or below 0.5%, nano-sized ATT could be evenly distributed in the PVA nanocomposite xerogel. However, when the concentration of ATT rose to 0.75% or higher, the ATT began to aggregate, resulting in a decrease in porous structure and the disruption of certain 3D porous continuous structures. The XRD analysis further affirmed that at an ATT concentration of 0.75% or higher, a distinct ATT peak emerged in the PVA nanocomposite xerogel. It was observed that as the content of ATT increased, the concavity and convexity of the xerogel surface, as well as the surface roughness, decreased. The results also confirmed that the ATT was evenly distributed in the PVA, and a combination of hydrogen bonds and ether bonds resulted in a more stable gel structure. The tensile properties exhibited that when compared with pure PVA hydrogel, the maximum tensile strength and elongation at break were achieved at an ATT concentration of 0.5%, indicating increases of 23.0% and 11.8%, respectively. The FTIR analysis results showed that the ATT and PVA could generate an ether bond, further confirming that ATT could enhance the PVA properties. The TGA analysis showed that the thermal degradation temperature peaked when the ATT concentration was at 0.5%, providing further evidence that the compactness of the nanocomposite hydrogel and the dispersion of the nanofiller was superior, contributing to a substantial increase in the mechanical properties of the nanocomposite hydrogel. Finally, the dye adsorption results displayed a significant rise in dye removal efficiency for methylene blue with the increase in the ATT concentration. At an ATT concentration of 1%, the removal efficiency rose by 103% compared with that of the pure PVA xerogel.
Pre-Feasibility Assessment Tool for Solar Industrial Process Heating
Authors: Nájera-Trejo Mario , Álvarez-Chavarría Fernando , Rodríguez-Muñoz Norma A. , Romero-Pérez Claudia K. , Martín-Domínguez Ignacio R. , Ortega-Avila Naghelli
Published: May 2023

The industrial sector demands 25% of global energy as heat, where one-third is used at temperatures below 150 °C. Nevertheless, the installed solar heating capacity in the industry is only 0.02%, even though the integration of solar heating systems into production processes could significantly reduce fossil fuel consumption at a competitive cost. Among other reasons, this low penetration is due to the final users’ lack of knowledge of solar heating technologies. As a result, a free pre-feasibility assessment tool was developed for non-specialised users to evaluate the possibility of integrating solar heat into their processes using basic information. This tool uses transient simulation to estimate a feasible solar heating system through the parametric optimisation of the solar collection area, thermal storage volume, heat exchange capacity, and solar integration schemes at the supply level and costs. A commercial facility in Mexico was analysed using the developed tool as a case study. However, even when this is not a design tool, the calculated solar collector area, storage tank volume, and investment were only 2.1%, 9.0%, and 2.3% higher than reported by the solar designer. Pre-feasibility assessment tools are essential to overcome the certainty gap between end users and solar designers, thus enhancing the possibility of implementing solar heating systems in various commercial and industrial processes.
CFD Predictions for Mixing Times in an Elliptical Ladle Using Single- and Dual-Plug Configurations
Authors: Tiwari Rohit , Girard Bruno , Labrecque Chantal , Isac Mihaiela M. , Guthrie Roderick I. L.
Published: May 2023

Argon bottom stirring is commonly practiced in secondary steelmaking processes due to its positive effects on achieving uniform temperatures and chemical compositions throughout a steel melt. It can also be used to facilitate slag metal refining reactions. The inter-mixing phenomena associated with argon gas injection through porous plugs set in the bottom and its stirring efficiency can be summarized by evaluations of 95% mixing times. This study focuses on investigating the impact of different plug positions and ratios of argon flow rates from two plugs on mixing behavior within a 110-tonne, elliptical-shaped industrial ladle. A quasi-single-phase modeling technique was employed for this purpose. The CFD findings revealed that the optimal position of the second plug is to be placed diametrically opposite the existing one at an equal mid-radius distance (R/2). An equal distribution of argon flow rates yielded the best results in terms of refractory erosion. A comparative study was conducted between single- and dual-plug-configured ladles based on flow behavior and wall shear stresses using this method. Furthermore, a transient multiphase model was developed to examine the formation of slag open eyes (SOE) for both single- and dual-plug configurations using a volume of fluid (VOF) model. The results indicated that the dual-plug configuration outperformed the current single-plug configuration.
Minding the Gaps in Managers’ Self-Realisation: The Values-Based Leadership Discourse of a Diaconal Organisation
Authors: Sirris Stephen
Published: May 2023

Work is an important source of meaning for managers in modern organisations. This article explores a leadership discourse in a diaconal organisation and aims at analysing managers’ notions of self-realisation. Based on a case study of a Norwegian diaconal hospital, the article answers the following research question: What characterises managers’ self-realisation within the leadership discourse in a diaconal organisation? The findings foreground how managers emphasise individuation through pro-social values, draw on the hospital’s distinct leadership discourse when addressing dilemmas and connect values to core work. However, the managers are also marked by individualisation in that they adopt elements from a generic leadership discourse, where managerial work is a means to launch their own potential, express personal ideals and foster individual development. The article discusses how self-realisation in this diaconal organisation primarily emerges as individuation rather than individualisation, which is prominent in generic leadership discourses. These two categories of self-realisation intersect within the hospital’s predominant values-based leadership discourse.
Non-Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children—Postacute Sequelae of Paediatric COVID-19: Autoimmune or Autoinflammatory? A Systematic Review of the Reported Cases
Authors: AbdelMassih Antoine Fakhry , Hanafy Maram Hamed , ElAhmady Maryam , Kozman Sylvia , Diab Nourine , Husseiny Reem , Deyab Ashrakat , Mady Aalaa , Yasser Alia , AbdelHalim Amira R. , Mohyeldin Aya , Serour Aya Sayed , AbdelGadir Ayat , Abdelaziz Eslam , ElGhamry Farida , Amr Hana , Milad Karim , Fouda Lamya , Hesham Mawada , Riad Mina Adly , Aoun Mohamed , AbdelTawab Rana , Sayed Rana , ElSenbawy Salma , Abdelkhalek Sara ElAhmady , Gamal Nada , Omar Yasmin
Published: May 2023

Three years after its emergence, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to be a leading cause of worldwide morbidity and mortality. This systematic review comprises relevant case reports that discuss non-multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (non-MIS-C) and postacute sequalae of COVID-19 (PASC) in the paediatric population, also known as long COVID syndrome. The study aims to highlight the prevalent time interval between COVID-19 and the development of non-MIS-C post-infectious sequalae (PIS). Databases were searched for studies that met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. The final screening revealed an equal sex distribution where the commonest age intervals were school-age and adolescence, with 38% of the patients being older than six years. Interestingly, hospital admission during the course of COVID-19 was not a predictor of the subsequent PASC; forty-nine patients (44.9%) were hospitalized while sixty patients (55.1%) were not hospitalized. Moreover, the most predominant time interval between COVID-19 and the developing PASC was within 14 days from the start of COVID-19 infection (61%). These findings suggest a crucial link between COVID-19 and immune PIS in the paediatric population, especially those older than six years. Accordingly, follow-up and management are encouraged in case of unusual symptoms and signs following COVID-19 infection, regardless of the COVID-19 infection severity.
UAV Implementations in Urban Planning and Related Sectors of Rapidly Developing Nations: A Review and Future Perspectives for Malaysia
Authors: Muhmad Kamarulzaman Aisyah Marliza , Wan Mohd Jaafar Wan Shafrina , Mohd Said Mohd Nizam , Saad Siti Nor Maizah , Mohan Midhun
Published: May 2023

The rapid growth of urban populations and the need for sustainable urban planning and development has made Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) a valuable tool for data collection, mapping, and monitoring. This article reviews the applications of UAV technology in sustainable urban development, particularly in Malaysia. It explores the potential of UAVs to transform infrastructure projects and enhance urban systems, underscoring the importance of advanced applications in Southeast Asia and developing nations worldwide. Following the PRISMA 2020 statement, this article adopts a systematic review process and identifies 98 relevant studies out of 591 records, specifically examining the use of UAVs in urban planning. The emergence of the UAV-as-a-service sector has led to specialized companies offering UAV operations for site inspections, 3D modeling of structures and terrain, boundary assessment, area estimation, master plan formulation, green space analysis, environmental monitoring, and archaeological monument mapping. UAVs have proven to be versatile tools with applications across multiple fields, including precision agriculture, forestry, construction, surveying, disaster response, security, and education. They offer advantages such as high-resolution imagery, accessibility, and operational safety. Varying policies and regulations concerning UAV usage across countries present challenges for commercial and research UAVs. In Malaysia, UAVs have become essential in addressing challenges associated with urbanization, including traffic congestion, urban sprawl, pollution, and inadequate social facilities. However, several obstacles need to be overcome before UAVs can be effectively deployed, including regulatory barriers, limited flight time and range, restricted awareness, lack of skilled personnel, and concerns regarding security and privacy. Successful implementation requires coordination among public bodies, industry stakeholders, and the public. Future research in Malaysia should prioritize 3D modeling and building identification, using the results of this study to propel advancements in other ASEAN countries.
Knowledge Gaps and Impact of Future Satellite Missions to Facilitate Monitoring of Changes in the Arctic Ocean
Authors: Lucas Sylvain , Johannessen Johnny A. , Cancet Mathilde , Pettersson Lasse H. , Esau Igor , Rheinlænder Jonathan W. , Ardhuin Fabrice , Chapron Bertrand , Korosov Anton , Collard Fabrice , Herlédan Sylvain , Olason Einar , Ferrari Ramiro , Fouchet Ergane , Donlon Craig
Published: May 2023

Polar-orbiting satellite observations are of fundamental importance to explore the main scientific challenges in the Arctic Ocean, as they provide information on bio-geo-physical variables with a denser spatial and temporal coverage than in-situ instruments in such a harsh and inaccessible environment. However, they are limited by the lack of coverage near the North Pole (Polar gap), the polar night, and frequent cloud cover or haze over the ocean and sea ice, which prevent the use of optical satellite instruments, as well as by the limited availability of external validation data. The satellite sensors’ coverage and repeat cycles may also have limitations in properly identifying and resolving the dominant spatial and temporal scales of atmospheric, ocean, cryosphere and land variability and their interactive processes and feedback mechanisms. In this paper, we provide a state of the art of contribution of satellite observations to the understanding of the polar environment and climate scientific challenges tackled within the Arktalas Hoavva project funded by the European Space Agency. We identify the current limitations to the wider use of polar orbiting remote sensing data, as well as the observational gaps of the existing satellite missions. A comprehensive overview of all satellite missions and applications is given provided with a primary focus on the European satellites. Finally, we assess the expected capability of the approved future satellite missions to answer today’s scientific challenges in the Arctic Ocean.
Geometry and Topology Reconstruction of BIM Wall Objects from Photogrammetric Meshes and Laser Point Clouds
Authors: Yang Fan , Pan Yiting , Zhang Fangshuo , Feng Fangyuan , Liu Zhenjia , Zhang Jiyi , Liu Yu , Li Lin
Published: May 2023

As the foundation for digitalization, building information modeling (BIM) technology has been widely used in the field of architecture, engineering, construction, and facility management (AEC/FM). Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) oblique photogrammetry and laser scanning have become increasingly popular data acquisition techniques for surveying buildings and providing original data for BIM modeling. However, the geometric and topological reconstruction of solid walls, which are among the most important architectural structures in BIM, is still a challenging undertaking. Due to noise and missing data in 3D point clouds, current research mostly focuses on segmenting wall planar surfaces from unstructured 3D point clouds and fitting the plane parameters without considering the thickness or 3D shape of the wall. Point clouds acquired only from the indoor space are insufficient for modeling exterior walls. It is also important to maintain the topological relationships between wall objects to meet the needs of complex BIM modeling. Therefore, in this study, a geometry and topology modeling method is proposed for solid walls in BIM based on photogrammetric meshes and laser point clouds. The method uses a kinetic space-partitioning algorithm to generate the building footprint and indoor floor plan. It classifies interior and exterior wall segments and infers parallel line segments to extract wall centerlines. The topological relationships are reconstructed and maintained to build wall objects with consistency. Experimental results on two datasets, including both photogrammetric meshes and indoor laser point clouds, exhibit more than 90% completeness and correctness, as well as centimeter-level accuracy of the wall surfaces.
FEALAC and Inter-Regional Governance: A ‘New’ Path to Pacific Partnership
Authors: Lee Taeheok
Published: May 2023

Bridging the Pacific provides an image of two separate regions which share the Pacific Rim, becoming connected in multiple aspects, not limited to a predominantly economic interconnection. This image, thus, points toward a constructive mechanism to work toward a resolution of the over-arching global issue, including climate change. This image and the method for its practical implementation are suggested by the Forum for East Asia and Latin America Cooperation—FEALAC. In the overall field of regionalism studies, inter-regionalism can be considered as ‘the third wave’ under the new regionalism, and FEALAC can be located in this analytical framework. To begin, this paper traces the process and features of regionalism by typification of three different versions, or ideal types of regionalism. In this work, each type of regionalism is not viewed as a successor to, considered better than the previous one, but rather provides a typology for analytical purposes. Next, taking up this historical and analytical framework of regionalism, this paper examines the FEALAC in terms of its strengths and weaknesses considered from the perspective of the five systemic functions. Finally, this paper demonstrates the ways in which FEALAC can be considered a relevant framework of inter-regional governance.
Effects of Long-Term Application of Cl-Containing Fertilizers on Chloride Content and Acidification in Brown Soil
Authors: Wang Yue , Liu Xingbin , Wang Luxin , Li Haotian , Zhang Shiyu , Yang Jinfeng , Liu Ning , Han Xiaori
Published: May 2023

Chloride is a necessary micronutrient for plant growth, and with long-term application of chlorine-containing fertilizer, significant amounts of Cl− are introduced into farmland ecosystems. Many recent studies have focused on chlorinated fertilizers’ effects on crop yield and quality, while few studies have examined their effects on soil properties. To determine the effects of the long-term application of chlorinated fertilizer on soil Cl− ions and soil acidification, we conducted a 35 year long-term study of chlorine-containing fertilizer in a peanut–corn rotation (since 1984). We chose three of eight experimental treatments: (1) no fertilization (CK), (2) urea + monoammonium phosphate + potassium chloride (lower Cl), and (3) urea + ammonium chlorophosphite + potassium chloride (higher Cl). We measured the Cl− concentrations, pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), exchangeable H+ and Al3+, and exchangeable alkali ions (K+, Na+, Ca2+, and Mg2+) at different soil depths (0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm). Compared to CK, chlorine-containing fertilizer application significantly increased the content of Cl− in the soil profile. Compared to the control, the Cl− content of lower Cl treatment of 0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm soil layers increased 11.08, 9.01, 15.21 mg kg−1 respectively, and the higher Cl treatment increased 38.71, 34.71, 32.05 mg kg−1 respectively. Compared to CK, chlorine-containing fertilizer application significantly reduced the soil pH by 0.41, 0.17, and 0.25 and 1.25, 0.91, and 0.88, respectively, in the 0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm soil layers. The higher chlorine treatment significantly increased the exchangeable Al3+ content in the 0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm soil layers by 2.79, 1.64, and 0.94 mg kg−1, respectively, significantly increasing the risk of aluminum toxicity. Furthermore, the soil exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+ contents and soil base saturation were significantly reduced. Although the Cl− content in the high-chlorine-treated soil was far from endangering crop growth, it accelerates soil acidification and the loss of base ions and increases the risk of Al3+ toxicity, which will not only affect the topsoil, but also the subsoil. Therefore, the long-term application of high content chloride fertilizers should be avoided in agricultural production.
Revolutionizing IC Genset Operations with IIoT and AI: A Study on Fuel Savings and Predictive Maintenance
Authors: Allahloh Ali S. , Sarfraz Mohammad , Ghaleb Atef M. , Al-Shamma’a Abdullrahman A. , Hussein Farh Hassan M. , Al-Shaalan Abdullah M.
Published: May 2023

In a world increasingly aware of its carbon footprint, the quest for sustainable energy production and consumption has never been more urgent. A key player in this monumental endeavor is fuel conservation, which helps curb greenhouse gas emissions and preserve our planet’s finite resources. In the realm of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, Caterpillar (CAT) generator set (genset) operations have been revolutionized, unlocking unprecedented fuel savings and reducing environmental harm. Envision a system that not only enhances fuel efficiency but also anticipates maintenance needs with state-of-the-art technology. This standalone IIoT platform crafted with Visual Basic.Net (VB.Net) and the KEPware Object linking and embedding for Process Control (OPC) server gathers, stores, and analyzes data from CAT gensets, painting a comprehensive picture of their inner workings. By leveraging the Modbus Remote Terminal Unit (RTU) protocol, the platform acquires vital parameters such as engine load, temperature, pressure, revolutions per minute (RPM), and fuel consumption measurements, from a radar transmitter. However, the magic does not stop there. Machine Learning.Net (ML.Net) empowers the platform with machine learning capabilities, scrutinizing the generator’s performance over time, identifying patterns and forecasting future behavior. Equipped with these insights, the platform fine tunes its operations, elevates fuel efficiency, and conducts predictive maintenance, minimizing downtime and amplifying overall efficiency. The evidence is compelling: IIoT and AI technologies have the power to yield substantial fuel savings and enhance performance through predictive maintenance. This research offers a tangible solution for industries eager to optimize operations and elevate efficiency by embracing IIoT and AI technologies in CAT genset operations. The future is greener and smarter, and it starts now.
A Bibliometric Analysis of the Literature on Food Industry Supply Chain Resilience: Investigating Key Contributors and Global Trends
Authors: Ababou Mariame , Chelh Sara , Elhiri Mariam
Published: May 2023

Purpose: In light of ongoing challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and globalization, it is critical to have resilient food industry supply chains that can operate effectively in uncertain conditions. This study aims to contribute to this effort by investigating current trends and developments in the area of food industry supply chain resilience and identifying potential areas for improvement. Design/methodology/approach: We conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of 122 articles published between 2008 and 2023, utilizing multiple quantitative measures such as bibliographic coupling and keyword co-occurrence network analysis. Findings: Our study identifies five distinct clusters of research on food industry supply chain resilience. We found that food systems resilience and public health is the most extensively studied aspect, indicating the importance of ensuring that our food supply chains are capable of withstanding disruptions to maintain public health. The other four clusters–seafood supply chain resilience and risk management; digital and sustainable food systems; agri-food Industry 4.0 and sustainability; and meat production and the food industry–each represent important areas for future research and development. Originality: To our knowledge, this is the first study that uses a bibliometric approach to analyze the resilience of food supply chain systems. By doing so, we provide a unique and original contribution to the existing literature on food supply chain systems, as prior bibliometric analyses have not specifically focused on the resilience aspect. Practical implications: Our findings highlight the need for continued research and development in the area of food industry supply chain resilience. By identifying the most pressing areas for improvement and future research, our study can help inform policy decisions and guide industry efforts to create more resilient food supply chains that can adapt to changing conditions.
Experimental Research on a Lightweight Miniature Wankel Compressor for a Vapor Compression Refrigeration System in Aerospace
Authors: Zhi Ruiping , Ma Rui , Zhang Delou , Wu Yuting
Published: May 2023

Vapor compression refrigeration is considered one promising technology for dissipating much higher heat fluxes from electronic devices at lower temperatures. The compressor, one key component, has a great effect on the overall size and performance of the system. One lightweight, miniature, hermetic Wankel compressor was developed to solve limited space cooling problems. The assembled Wankel compressor had a diameter of 65 mm, a length of 85 mm and a weight of 340.2 g, without a motor and housing. An experimental system for miniature refrigeration was set up to explore the optimal refrigerant charge and the performance of the compressor under changing rotational speeds and inlet temperatures of cooling water. The experimental results showed that the optimal refrigerant charge was 220 g and the coefficient of performance was approximately 2.8. The refrigeration coefficient of the system decreased with increases in rotational speed and inlet temperature of the cooling water at a stable cooling capacity of 100 W. The developed lightweight, miniature, hermetic Wankel compressor had reliable performance after running for 600 h, with a power consumption of 35 W and a high coefficient of performance (COP) of 2.63.
Optimal Control of an Autonomous Microgrid Integrated with Super Magnetic Energy Storage Using an Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Zaid Sherif A. , Kassem Ahmed M. , Alatwi Aadel M. , Albalawi Hani , AbdelMeguid Hossam , Elemary Atef
Published: May 2023

This article presents a microgrid that uses sustainable energy sources. It has a fuel cell (FC), wind energy production devices, and a superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) device. The performance of the suggested microgrid is improved by adapting an optimal control method using an artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm. The ABC algorithm has many advantages, including simplicity, adaptability and resilience to handle difficult optimization issues. Under usual circumstances, wind and FC energies are typically appropriate for meeting load demands. The SMES, however, makes up the extra capacity requirement during transient circumstances. Using the ABC optimum controller, the load frequency and voltage are controlled. Measurements of the microgrid’s behavior using the newly developed optimal controller were made in response to step variations in wind power and load demand. To assess the performance of the suggested system, simulations in Matlab were run. The outcomes of the simulations demonstrated that the suggested microgrid supplied the load with AC power of steady amplitude and frequency for all disruptions. Additionally, the necessary load demand was precisely mitigated. Furthermore, even in the presence of variable wind speeds and SMES, the microgrid performed superbly. The outcomes under the same circumstances with and without the optimal ABC processor were compared. It was discovered that the microgrid delivered superior responses using the optimal ABC controller with SMES compared to the microgrid without SMES. The performance was also compared to the optimally controlled microgrid using particle swarm (PS) optimization.
Frequency Regulation of Interlinked Microgrid System Using Mayfly Algorithm-Based PID Controller
Authors: Boopathi Dhanasekaran , Jagatheesan Kaliannan , Anand Baskaran , Samanta Sourav , Dey Nilanjan
Published: May 2023

The primary goal of this article is to design and implement a secondary controller with which to control the system frequency in a networked microgrid system. The proposed power system comprises of Renewable energy sources (RESs), energy-storing units (ESUs), and synchronous generator. RESs include photovoltaic (PV) and wind turbine generator (WTG) units. The ESU is composed of a flywheel and a battery. Because renewable energy sources are not constant in nature, their values fluctuate from time to time, causing an effect on system frequency and power flow variation in the tie line. The nonlinear output from the RESs is balanced with the support of ESUs. In order to address this situation, a proportional integral derivative (PID) controller based on the Mayfly algorithm (MA) is proposed and built. Comparing the responses of controllers based on the genetic algorithm (GA), differential evolution (DE), and particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique-optimized to demonstrate the superiority of the MA-tuned controller.. The results of the validation comparisons reveal that the implemented MA-PID controller delivers and is capable of regulating system frequency under various load demand changes and renewable energy sources. A robustness analysis test was also performed in order to determine the effectiveness of the suggested optimization technique (1%, 2%, 5%, and 10%) step load perturbation (SLP) with ±25% and ±50% variation from the nominal governor and reheater time constant).
A Decision Support Software Application for the Design of Agrophotovoltaic Systems in Republic of Korea
Authors: Kim Youngjin , On Yeongjae , So Junyong , Kim Sumin , Kim Sojung
Published: May 2023

Agrophotovoltaic (APV) systems produce both solar energy and crops, so they are considered a sustainable alternative to traditional solar power plants, which can potentially destroy farmlands. However, it is challenging to diffuse APV systems because of their high installation and operating costs. Thus, to resolve the issue by maximizing the productivity and profits of an APV system, this study aims to propose a mobile-phone-based decision support system (DSS) for a supply chain network design for APV systems in South Korea using satellite imagery incorporating geographic information system (GIS) data. Particularly, polynomial regression models estimating annual corn (Zea mays) yields and the predicted generation of electricity were developed and integrated with the proposed DSS. Field experiment data provided by the APV system at Jeollanamdo Agricultural Research and Extension Services in South Korea were utilized. Two photovoltaic (PV) module types (mono-facial and bi-facial) and three different shading ratios for APV systems (21.3%, 25.6%, and 32.0%) were considered design factors for APV systems. An optimal network structure of 6 candidate APV systems and 15 agricultural markets was devised using the generalized reduced gradient (GRG) method. The profits of the six candidate APV systems are mainly affected by the transportation costs to the markets and the policy of the electricity selling prices. As a result, the proposed supply chain design framework successfully identifies an APV system network with maximum profits from crop production as well as electricity generation.
Economic Policy Uncertainty and Enterprise Financing Efficiency: Evidence from China
Authors: Liu Tingli , Chen Xiao , Liu Jianing
Published: May 2023

This study investigates the effect of economic policy uncertainty on financing efficiency in China’s high-tech manufacturing industry from static and dynamic perspectives. Using data envelopment analysis (DEA) and the Malmquist index, we measure financing efficiency and its changes over time. The results show that China’s high-tech manufacturing firms exhibit low static financing efficiency, yet they exhibit relatively high dynamic efficiency. A significant positive relationship is found between economic policy uncertainty and both static and dynamic financing efficiency. The uncertainty motivates firms to improve their financing efficiency, mainly by enhancing technical and scale efficiency and by increasing comprehensive efficiency. Moreover, different financing channels, such as commercial credit, equity financing, bank credit, and internal financing, have varied effects on the relationship between economic policy uncertainty and static financing efficiency. This study demonstrates that high-tech manufacturing enterprises can respond to economic policy uncertainty by improving their financing efficiency.
Optimization of the Energy Capture Performance of the Lift-Drag Hybrid Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine Based on the Taguchi Experimental Method and CFD Simulation
Authors: Zhang Jintao , Wang Chao , Liu Wenhao , Zhu Jianyang , Yan Yangyang , Zhao Hui
Published: May 2023

In order to improve the energy capture performance of vertical axis lift wind turbines in a low wind speed environment, the drag wind turbine is employed to couple with the design of existing vertical axis lift wind turbines. In contrast to the existing literature, in this work, a computational model is proposed that can simulate the interaction between the turbine and the fluid. The effects of pitch angle (β), installation angle (θ), overlap ratio (ε) and diameter ratio (DL) on the energy capture performance of hybrid vertical axis wind turbines are systematically analyzed based on Taguchi and CFD methods. The results show that under the optimized parameter combination, the peak energy capture coefficient of the lift-drag hybrid wind turbine can be increased to 0.2328, compared with 0.0309 and 0.0287 of the pure lift and drag turbine, respectively. In addition, the result of the prototype test show that the optimized hybrid wind turbine not only has a better-starting performance but also has 2.0 times the output power of that of the lift wind turbine.