bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Micro-Systems: Households’ Preferences and Economic Futility
Authors: Klingler Anna-Lena , Dörr Julian
Published: March 2024

This study examines the potential market for residential hydrogen systems in light of the trends towards digitalisation and environmental awareness. Based on a survey of 350 participants, the results indicate that although energy experts are sceptical about the benefits of residential hydrogen systems due to their high costs, households are highly interested in this technology. The sample shows a willingness to invest in hydrogen applications, with some households willing to pay an average of 24% more. An economic assessment compared the cost of a residential hydrogen system with conventional domestic energy systems, revealing significant additional costs for potential buyers interested in hydrogen applications.
Exploring Hydrogen-Enriched Fuels and the Promise of HCNG in Industrial Dual-Fuel Engines
Authors: Szamrej Grzegorz , Karczewski Mirosław
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a theoretical analysis of the selected properties of HCNG fuel calculations and a literature review of the other fuels that allow the storage of ecologically produced hydrogen. Hydrogen has the most significant CO2 reduction potential of all known fuels. However, its transmission in pure form is still problematic, and its use as a component of fuels modified by it has now become an issue of interest for researchers. Many types of hydrogen-enriched fuels have been invented. However, this article will describe the reasons why HCNG may be the hydrogen-enriched fuel of the future and why internal combustion (IC) piston engines working on two types of fuel could be the future method of using it. CO2 emissions are currently a serious problem in protecting the Earth’s natural climate. However, secondarily, power grid stabilization with a large share of electricity production from renewable energy sources must be stabilized with very flexible sources—as flexible as multi-fuel IC engines. Their use is becoming an essential element of the electricity power systems of Western countries, and there is a chance to use fuels with zero or close to zero CO2 emissions, like e-fuels and HCNG. Dual-fuel engines have become an effective way of using these types of fuels efficiently; therefore, in this article, the parameters of hydrogen-enriched fuel selected in terms of relevance to the use of IC engines are considered. Inaccuracies found in the literature analysis are discussed, and the essential properties of HCNG and its advantages over other hydrogen-rich fuels are summarized in terms of its use in dual-fuel (DF) IC engines.
The Growing Problem of Textile Waste Generation—The Current State of Textile Waste Management
Authors: Wojnowska-Baryła Irena , Bernat Katarzyna , Zaborowska Magdalena , Kulikowska Dorota
Published: March 2024

The textile industry is global, and most brands export their products to many different markets with different infrastructures, logistics, and regulations. A textile waste recovery system that works in one country may fail in another. European Union legislation (Directive (EU) 2018/851) mandates that post-consumer textile waste must be separately collected in all associated countries. This directive has also stated that, in January 2025, the rate of textile waste recycling in Europe should be increased. Local governments will be under pressure to improve the collection, sorting, and recycling of textiles. Supporting local governments could be part of a more long-term approach to managing high-value textile waste by implementing Extended Producer Responsibility, which would increase the recycling rate of textile companies. This would enable reuse of over 60% of recovered clothes, recycling into fibers of 35%, and only throwing away 5%. Today, most textile waste (85%) is disposed of as solid waste and must be disposed of through municipal or local waste management systems that either landfill or incinerate the waste. To increase reuse and recycling efficiency, textile waste should be collected and sorted according to the relevant input requirements. The dominant form of textile waste sorting is manual sorting. Sorting centers could be a future solution for intensifying the recycling of textile waste. Advances in textile waste management will require digitization processes, which will facilitate the collection, sorting, and recycling of textiles. It is very important that digitization will help to guide used products to recycling and encourage manufacturers to participate in the use and collection of product data. Currently, both the digitization of textile waste management and fiber recycling technologies are at the level of laboratory research and have not been implemented. The aim of this publication is to analyze the state of textile waste management, especially the various forms of recycling that involve a local governments and the textile industry.
Integrated Fabry–Perot Cavities: A Quantum Leap in Technology
Authors: Velha Philippe
Published: March 2024

Integrated Fabry–Perot cavities (IFPCs), often referred to as nanobeams due to their form factor and size, have profoundly modified the landscape of integrated photonics as a new building block for classical and quantum engineering. In this entry, the main properties of IFPCs will be summarized from the classical and quantum point of view. The classical will provide some of the main results obtained in the last decade, whereas the quantum point of view will explore cavity quantum electrodynamics (CQED), which promises to revolutionize the future “quantum internet”.
Depth Range Extension for the Misty Grouper Hyporthodus mystacinus Documented via Deep-Sea Landers throughout the Greater Caribbean
Authors: Aldridge Shannon E. , Dixon Olivia F. L. , de Silva Christine , Kohler Johanna K. , Shipley Oliver N. , Phillips Brennan T. , Fernandes Teresa F. , Austin Timothy , Ormond Rupert F. , Gore Mauvis A. , Gallagher Austin J.
Published: March 2024

Misty Groupers (Hyporthodus mystacinus) are one of the largest and most geographically widespread grouper species and one of the few grouper species known to occur at depths greater than 200 m. However, aspects of their basic biology, behavior, and ecology remain poorly understood, leaving significant gaps in our ability to evaluate their functional role throughout the vertical water column, as well as our understanding of their conservation needs in a changing ocean. Through in-situ video observation obtained using deep-sea landers in both The Bahamas and Cayman Islands over multiple years, we documented Misty Grouper occurrence up to 470 m depth in the mesopelagic zone. These observations provide a new depth range extension for the species and illuminate the potential importance of deep-water habitats for large grouper species in the wider Caribbean.
Dynamic Viscoelastic Behavior of Maize Kernel: Application of Frequency–Temperature Superposition
Authors: Sheng Shaoyang , Wu Min , Lv Weiqiao
Published: March 2024

Maize kernels were treated using two varieties of drying methodologies, namely combined hot air- and vacuum-drying (HAVD) and natural drying (ND). We performed frequency sweep tests, modified Cole–Cole (MCC) analysis, and frequency–temperature superposition (FTS) on these kernels. The kernels’ elastic and viscous properties for ND were higher than those for HAVD. The heterogeneous nature of maize kernel may account for the curvature in MCC plot for the kernel treated by HAVD 75 °C and the failure of FTS. MCC analysis was more sensitive than FTS. The kernel treated by HAVD 75 °C demonstrated thermorheologically simple behavior across the entire temperature range (30–45 °C) in both MCC analysis and FTS. The frequency scale for the kernel treated using HAVD 75 °C was broadened by up to 70,000 Hz. The relaxation processes in the kernel treated by HAVD 75 °C were determined to be mainly associated with subunits of molecules or molecular strands. The data herein could be utilized for maize storage and processing.
Geocryological Conditions of Small Mountain Catchment in the Upper Kolyma Highland (Northeastern Asia)
Authors: Makarieva Olga , Zemlianskova Anastasiia , Abramov Dmitriy , Nesterova Nataliia , Ostashov Andrey
Published: March 2024

This research presents a comprehensive environmental assessment of a small mountain permafrost catchment of the Anmangynda River in the Upper Kolyma Highland (Northeastern Asia) over the period of 2021–2023. The study reveals significant diversity in climatic, geocryological, and hydrogeological conditions within this confined area, emphasizing the need for extensive field data collection and monitoring in vast permafrost regions with limited data availability. Key findings include variations in ground temperature, maximum seasonal thaw depth, and depths of zero annual amplitudes of ground temperature at different elevations and landscape types. Groundwater and surface flow dynamics within spring aufeis basins exhibit complex geocryological regimes influenced by icing processes. The presence of aufeis and its impact on local hydrology highlight the ecological significance of this phenomenon. Future research should focus on long-term trends in permafrost dynamics and their relationship with climate change, as well as the ecological effects of aufeis formation on local ecosystems. The study underscores the importance of a multi-faceted approach to environmental assessment, incorporating various environmental parameters and processes, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interactions within the cryosphere and their responses to changing climate conditions. Such knowledge is essential for addressing broader questions related to climate change, ecosystem resilience, and sustainable resource management in Northeastern Siberia.
Immunotherapy and Cancer: The Multi-Omics Perspective
Authors: Donisi Clelia , Pretta Andrea , Pusceddu Valeria , Ziranu Pina , Lai Eleonora , Puzzoni Marco , Mariani Stefano , Massa Elena , Madeddu Clelia , Scartozzi Mario
Published: March 2024

Immunotherapies have revolutionized cancer treatment approaches. Because not all patients respond positively to immune therapeutic agents, it represents a challenge for scientists who strive to understand the mechanisms behind such resistance. In-depth exploration of tumor biology, using novel technologies such as omics science, can help decode the role of the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) in producing a response to the immune blockade strategies. It can also help to identify biomarkers for patient stratification and personalized treatment. This review aims to explore these new models and highlight their possible pivotal role in changing clinical practice.
A Prospective Observational Study Analyzing the Diagnostic Value of Hepcidin-25 for Anemia in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Petrović Stanko , Tarabar Dino , Ćujić Danica , Stamenkovic Dusica , Petrović Marijana , Rančić Nemanja , Subota Vesna , Perišić Nenad , Bezmarević Mihailo
Published: March 2024

Iron deficiency (IDA) and chronic disease (ACD) anemia are complications of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Therapeutic modalities in remission and active IBD depend on the type of anemia. This study evaluated the link between hepcidin-25, proinflammatory cytokines, and platelet activation markers as biomarkers of anemia and inflammation in active IBD and remission. This prospective observational study included 62 patients with IBD (49 with ulcerative colitis and 13 with Crohn’s) and anemia. Patients were divided into Group I (no or minimal endoscopic signs of disease activity and IDA), Group II (moderate and major endoscopic signs of disease activity and mild ACD), and Control group (10 patients with IBD in remission, without anemia). We assessed the difference among groups in the levels of CRP, hemoglobin (Hgb), serum iron, ferritin, hepcidin-25, interleukins, TNF–α, IFN-γ, soluble CD40 ligand, and sP-selectin. Hepcidin-25 levels were significantly higher in Group II versus Group I (11.93 vs. 4.48 ng/mL, p < 0.001). Ferritin and CRP values showed similar patterns in IBD patients: significantly higher levels were observed in Group II (47.5 ng/mL and 13.68 mg/L) than in Group I (11.0 ng/mL and 3.39 mg/L) (p < 0.001). In Group II, hepcidin-25 was positively correlated with ferritin (ρ = 0.725, p < 0.001) and CRP (ρ = 0.502, p = 0.003). Ferritin was an independent variable influencing hepcidin-25 concentration in IBD patients, regardless of disease activity and severity of anemia. IBD hepcidin-25 best correlates with ferritin, and both parameters reflected inflammation extent and IBD activity.
A1CF Binding to the p65 Interaction Site on NKRF Decreased IFN-β Expression and p65 Phosphorylation (Ser536) in Renal Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Liu Yamin , Yang Jieru , Weng Dunchu , Xie Yajun
Published: March 2024

Apobec-1 complementation factor (A1CF) functions as an RNA-binding cofactor for APO-BEC1-mediated C-to-U conversion during RNA editing and as a hepatocyte-specific regulator in the alternative pre-mRNA splicing of metabolic enzymes. Its role in RNA editing has not been clearly established. Western blot, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), immunofluorescence (IF), methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT), and 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays were used to examine the role of A1CF beyond RNA editing in renal carcinoma cells. We demonstrated that A1CF interacts with NKRF, independent of RNA and DNA, without affecting its expression or nuclear translocation; however, it modulates p65(Ser536) phosphorylation and IFN-β levels. Truncation of A1CF or deletion on NKRF revealed that the RRM1 domain of A1CF and the p65 binding motif of NKRF are required for their interaction. Deletion of RRM1 on A1CF abrogates NKRF binding, and the decrease in IFN-β expression and p65(Ser536) phosphorylation was induced by A1CF. Moreover, full-length A1CF, but not an RRM1 deletion mutant, promoted cell proliferation in renal carcinoma cells. Perturbation of A1CF levels in renal carcinoma cells altered anchorage-independent growth and tumor progression in nude mice. Moreover, p65(Ser536) phosphorylation and IFN-β expression were lower, but ki67 was higher in A1CF-overexpressing tumor tissues of a xenograft mouse model. Notably, primary and metastatic samples from renal cancer patients exhibited high A1CF expression, low p65(Ser536) phosphorylation, and decreased IFN-β levels in renal carcinoma tissues compared with the corresponding paracancerous tissues. Our results indicate that A1CF-decreased p65(Ser536) phosphorylation and IFN-β levels may be caused by A1CF competitive binding to the p65-combined site on NKRF and demonstrate the direct binding of A1CF independent of RNA or DNA in signal pathway regulation and tumor promotion in renal carcinoma cells.
Potential Regulatory Networks and Heterosis for Flavonoid and Terpenoid Contents in Pak Choi: Metabolomic and Transcriptome Analyses
Authors: Wang Haibin , Han Tiantian , Bai Aimei , Xu Huanhuan , Wang Jianjun , Hou Xilin , Li Ying
Published: March 2024

Pak choi exhibits a diverse color range and serves as a rich source of flavonoids and terpenoids. However, the mechanisms underlying the heterosis and coordinated regulation of these compounds—particularly isorhamnetin—remain unclear. This study involved three hybrid combinations and the detection of 528 metabolites from all combinations, including 26 flavonoids and 88 terpenoids, through untargeted metabolomics. Analysis of differential metabolites indicated that the heterosis for the flavonoid and terpenoid contents was parent-dependent, and positive heterosis was observed for isorhamnetin in the two hybrid combinations (SZQ, 002 and HMG, ZMG). Moreover, there was a high transcription level of flavone 3′-O-methyltransferase, which is involved in isorhamnetin biosynthesis. The third group was considered the ideal hybrid combination for investigating the heterosis of flavonoid and terpenoid contents. Transcriptome analysis identified a total of 12,652 DEGs (TPM > 1) in various groups that were used for comparison, and DEGs encoding enzymes involved in various categories, including “carotenoid bio-synthesis” and “anthocyanin biosynthesis”, were enriched in the hybrid combination (SZQ, 002). Moreover, the category of anthocyanin biosynthesis also was enriched in the hybrid combination (HMG, ZMG). The flavonoid pathway demonstrated more differential metabolites than the terpenoid pathway did. The WGCNA demonstrated notable positive correlations between the dark-green modules and many flavonoids and terpenoids. Moreover, there were 23 ERF genes in the co-expression network (r ≥ 0.90 and p < 0.05). Thus, ERF genes may play a significant role in regulating flavonoid and terpenoid biosynthesis. These findings enhance our understanding of the heterosis and coordinated regulation of flavonoid and terpenoid biosynthesis in pak choi, offering insights for genomics-based breeding improvements.
Numerical Study of the Gas–Solid Separation Performance of Axial Flow Cyclone Separators
Authors: Mao Yanqin , Chertovskih Roman , Cai Liang
Published: March 2024

Cyclone separators, which have a high separation performance, play a crucial role in mitigating the occurrence of dust explosion incidents. This study aims to improve the performance of an axial cyclone separator using the results of simulations employing the RNG k-ε model together with a user-defined function to simulate the wall collision process. The effectiveness of various structural modifications to the vortex tube has been addressed. Specifically, we found that increasing the number of blades, reducing the blade exit angle, and adopting L-shaped blades increase separation efficiency. Additionally, enlarging the guide vane and exhaust pipe diameters, as well as increasing the exhaust pipe inclination angle, contribute to an improved separation performance due to the developed tangential velocity and vortex cores. However, it also increases the pressure drop losses due to the increase in the turbulence pulsation entropy and the wall entropy, while the time-averaged entropy is found to be less significant. As a result, our study sheds light on the flow characteristics, the gas–solid separation process, and the energy loss mechanism in the cyclone separator.
A Novel Method for Determining Fibrin/Fibrinogen Degradation Products and Fibrinogen Threshold Criteria via Artificial Intelligence in Massive Hemorrhage during Delivery with Hematuria
Authors: Miyagi Yasunari , Tada Katsuhiko , Yasuhi Ichiro , Tsumura Keisuke , Maegawa Yuka , Tanaka Norifumi , Mizunoe Tomoya , Emoto Ikuko , Maeda Kazuhisa , Kawakami Kosuke ,   on behalf of the Collaborative Research in National Hospital Organization Network Pediatric and Perinatal Group
Published: March 2024

(1) Background: Although the diagnostic criteria for massive hemorrhage with organ dysfunction, such as disseminated intravascular coagulation associated with delivery, have been empirically established based on clinical findings, strict logic has yet to be used to establish numerical criteria. (2) Methods: A dataset of 107 deliveries with >2000 mL of blood loss, among 13,368 deliveries, was obtained from nine national perinatal centers in Japan between 2020 and 2023. Twenty-three patients had fibrinogen levels <170 mg/dL, which is the initiation of coagulation system failure, according to our previous reports. Three of these patients had hematuria. We used six machine learning methods to identify the borderline criteria dividing the fibrinogen/fibrin/fibrinogen degradation product (FDP) planes, using 15 coagulation fibrinolytic factors. (3) Results: The boundaries of hematuria development on a two-dimensional plane of fibrinogen and FDP were obtained. A positive FDP–fibrinogen/3–60 (mg/dL) value indicates hematuria; otherwise, the case is nonhematuria, as demonstrated by the support vector machine method that seemed the most appropriate. (4) Conclusions: Using artificial intelligence, the borderline criterion was obtained, which divides the fibrinogen/FDP plane for patients with hematuria that could be considered organ dysfunction in massive hemorrhage during delivery; this method appears to be useful.
Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients with Locally Advanced Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma with or without Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Chang Nai-Wen , Huang Yu-Hui , Sung Wen-Wei , Chen Sung-Lang
Published: March 2024

Background: The incidence of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is uniquely high in kidney transplant (KT) recipients in Taiwan. The evidence of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) in UTUC is contradictory. We have sought to determine whether AC is associated with potential benefits related to locally advanced UTUC after KT. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 134 patients with locally advanced UTUC (at least stage T2) and patients who were administrated AC after unilateral or bilateral nephroureterectomy with bladder cuff excision. Of these 134 patients, 57 patients fulfilled our inclusion criteria. We used 23 KT and 34 non-KT locally advanced UTUC patients for comparison. Results: The mean follow-up time was 52.35 ± 34.56 and 64.71 ± 42.29 months for the KT and non-KT groups, respectively. The five-year disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 45.7% vs. 70.2% and 62.8% vs. 77.6%, for the KT and non-KT groups. The Kaplan–Meier curve and the log rank test revealed significant differences in the DFS and OS rates between the two groups, p = 0.015 and 0.036. The influence of chemotherapy on graft kidney function was mild. Only three in the KT group and two in the non-KT group developed > grade 2 nephrotoxicity. Conclusions: Our study suggested that KT patients with locally advanced UTUC who had been administered AC after surgery presented worse OS and DFS than non-KT patients. KT patients tolerated the AC course well, and their nephrotoxicity levels were mild and acceptable.
COVID-19: The Development and Validation of a New Mortality Risk Score
Authors: Zinna Giuseppe , Pipitò Luca , Colomba Claudia , Scichilone Nicola , Licata Anna , Barbagallo Mario , Russo Antonio , Almasio Piero Luigi , Coppola Nicola , Cascio Antonio
Published: March 2024

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has found the whole world unprepared for its correct management. Italy was the first European country to experience the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the end of February 2020. As a result of hospital overcrowding, the quality of care delivered was not always optimal. A substantial number of patients admitted to non-ICU units could have been treated at home. It would have been extremely useful to have a score that, based on personal and clinical characteristics and simple blood tests, could have predicted with sufficient reliability the probability that a patient had or did not have a disease that could have led to their death. This study aims to develop a scoring system to identify which patients with COVID-19 are at high mortality risk upon hospital admission, to expedite and enhance clinical decision making. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed to develop a multivariable prognostic prediction model. Results: Derivation and external validation cohorts were obtained from two Italian University Hospital databases, including 388 (10.31% deceased) and 1357 (7.68% deceased) patients with confirmed COVID-19, respectively. A multivariable logistic model was used to select seven variables associated with in-hospital death (age, baseline oxygen saturation, hemoglobin value, white blood cell count, percentage of neutrophils, platelet count, and creatinine value). Calibration and discrimination were satisfactory with a cumulative AUC for prediction mortality of 0.924 (95% CI: 0.893–0.944) in derivation cohorts and 0.808 (95% CI: 0.886–0.828) in external validation cohorts. The risk score obtained was compared with the ISARIC 4C Mortality Score, and with all the other most important scores considered so far, to evaluate the risk of death of patients with COVID-19. It performed better than all the above scores to evaluate the predictability of dying. Its sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were higher than the other COVID-19 scoring systems when the latter were calculated for the 388 patients in our derivation cohort. Conclusions: In conclusion, the CZ-COVID-19 Score may help all physicians by identifying those COVID-19 patients who require more attention to provide better therapeutic regimens or, on the contrary, by identifying those patients for whom hospitalization is not necessary and who could therefore be sent home without overcrowding healthcare facilities. We developed and validated a new risk score based on seven variables for upon-hospital admission of COVID-19 patients. It is very simple to calculate and performs better than all the other similar scores to evaluate the predictability of dying.
Tumor Embolic Stroke: The Importance of Pathological Assessment of Clots after Thrombectomy
Authors: Baker Richard , Bakali Zohabe , Crocker Jeffrey S. , Mowla Ashkan , Smith Matthew , Grossman Aaron , Hagen Matthew C. , Prestigiacomo Charles J. , Shirani Peyman
Published: March 2024

While tumor emboli are a rare cause of stroke in cancer patients, they highlight the importance of gross observations and pathological assessments in the evaluation of clots. In this case report, a 70-year-old male with type 2 diabetes mellitus and coronary artery disease presented with acute left-sided weakness. He was clinically diagnosed with stroke and given alteplase at 1.5 h from last known normal. He then underwent CT angiography that showed right internal carotid artery occlusion and immediate thrombectomy. The recovered clot was white and lipid-like; due to its atypical appearance, it was sent for pathological assessment, where it was shown to bear features of malignancy. Subsequent imaging identified masses indicating malignancy in the left gluteus, right pleural hilum, and spine. Tumor embolic stroke is a rare pathology. Embolic diseases such as strokes and pulmonary embolisms are common in patients with cancer. Embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) represents a significant portion of cancer strokes. Tumor emboli, though rare, may be an underappreciated source of ESUS in cancer patients. We intend for this case to demonstrate the value of pathological assessment for atypical thrombi as well as highlight the etiology of tumor embolic strokes.
Evaluation of the Value of Histological Examination for the Prediction of Genetic Thoracic Proximal Aortopathies
Authors: Mahlmann Adrian , Rodionov Roman N. , Behrendt Christian-Alexander , Leip Jennifer Lynne , Lackner Helmut Karl , Eraqi Mohamed , Elzanaty Nesma , Ghazy Tamer
Published: March 2024

Background: Heritable connective tissue disorders are often accompanied by an increased risk for thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD). Profound knowledge of the underlying pathology may have an impact on individual treatment, systematic follow-up, and early detection by the screening of offspring. The aim of this study, based in a single high-volume tertiary center, was an analysis of the diagnostic validity of histopathologic findings in patients with TAAD due to these findings’ accuracy in diagnosing heritable connective tissue disorders. Methods: Therefore, genetic testing by next-generation sequencing (NGS) was performed to evaluate the correlations. In total, 65 patients with TAAD undergoing surgical treatment before the age of 60 years or with age up to 80 years if they had offspring at the time of the procedure were included in the analysis. Results: In our cohort, no certain correlation of histological findings to the results of genetic diagnostics in patients with clinically relevant aortic pathology could be shown. Patients with histopathologic findings for heritable connective tissue disorder and a positive gene variant were 11.6 years younger than patients without mutation and without histological evidence for connective tissue disorder. Conclusions: Genetic clarification is useful to define the specific genotype of the disease of the aortic wall in the case of non-specific histological characteristics.
Influence of the Chemical Composition of Kulantau Vermiculite on the Structure of Modified Bitumen Compositions
Authors: Syrmanova Kulash , Kaldybekova Zhanat , Agabekova Aktolkyn , Baizhanova Sholpan
Published: March 2024

The article presents the chemical composition of vermiculite ores from the Kulantau deposits and the atomic structure of vermiculite during dehydration, in 1-, 2- and 3-layer hydrated states. It has been shown that vermiculites from deposits in the Turkestan region have significant differences in mineralogical composition. Rational ways of using Kulantau vermiculite as an innovative modifying additive in bitumen compositions are considered, which are intended to improve the asphalt concrete mixture during its preparation. A slight increase in structuring resins is a result of the elevated content of high-molecular-weight asphaltenes in the modified bitumen, as indicated by the analysis of the provided spectra. In turn, the systematization or structuring of bitumen leads to an increase in the mixture density, accompanied by a simultaneous rise in internal friction coefficients, and resistance to loads (shear and impact), as well as an enhancement in compressive strength. The influence of the chemical composition of Kulantau vermiculite on the structure of bitumen compositions is characterized by high adsorption capacity and effectively absorbs products resulting from the oxidation of hydrocarbons. Vermiculite is characterized by high efficiency in the activation phase, large pore volume, and selectivity. The alteration of the bitumen’s group composition due to the selective diffusion of oils, as well as resins in the material, occurs as a result of the interaction between bitumen and a material characterized by a fine-porous structure and high specific surface area. This process modifies the properties of bituminous layers on the surface of particles and leads to the formation of robust bitumen films appearing on the grain surfaces. Thus, enhancing the longevity of coatings, improving the quality of binding bitumen, and reducing asphalt concrete coverings necessitate the use of vermiculite in creating modified bituminous compositions.
New Trends of Digital Justice: The Online Mediation—Between a Challenge and a Reality (The Portuguese Legal Framework)
Authors: Cebola Cátia Marques , Monteiro Susana Sardinha
Published: March 2024

The Directive 2008/52/EU of the European Parliament and Council of 21 May 2008, regarding certain aspects of mediation in civil and commercial matters, does not seem to have been designed for online mediation since it does not expressly include rules in this regard, though it does not prohibit it either. The Portuguese legislator, through Law 29/2013, of 19 April 2013 regulated mediation in an autonomous and systematic way in Portugal, covering internal and cross-border conflicts, and went beyond the EU requirements prescribed by the 2008 Directive, which only specified regulation to cross-border conflict mediation. Like the EU Directive, the Portuguese law does not explicitly address online mediation, but it neither prohibits nor excludes its application. In this article, we intend to present and conceptualize online mediation within the scope of Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) procedures. We will present the specific features and principles of online mediation, thus enhancing the main challenges and potentialities of its use as an adequate means of resolving conflicts.
New Pyridyl and Dihydroisoquinoline Alkaloids Isolated from the Chevron Nemertean Amphiporus angulatus
Authors: Kem William R. , Soti Ferenc , Rocca James R. , Johnson Jodie V.
Published: March 2024

Nemertean worms contain toxins that are used to paralyze their prey and to deter potential predators. Hoplonemerteans often contain pyridyl alkaloids like anabaseine that act through nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and crustacean chemoreceptors. The chemical reactivity of anabaseine, the first nemertean alkaloid to be identified, has been exploited to make drug candidates selective for alpha7 subtype nAChRs. GTS-21, a drug candidate based on the anabaseine scaffold, has pro-cognitive and anti-inflammatory actions in animal models. The circumpolar chevron hoplonemertean Amphiporus angulatus contains a multitude of pyridyl compounds with neurotoxic, anti-feeding, and anti-fouling activities. Here, we report the isolation and structural identification of five new compounds, doubling the number of pyridyl alkaloids known to occur in this species. One compound is an isomer of the tobacco alkaloid anatabine, another is a unique dihydroisoquinoline, and three are analogs of the tetrapyridyl nemertelline. The structural characteristics of these ten compounds suggest several possible pathways for their biosynthesis.
Evaluation of Knowledge and Competencies in Sexual and Reproductive Health Care Using an Escape Room with Scenario Simulations
Authors: Martínez-Galiano Juan Miguel , Gonzalez-Cabrera Manuel , Rodriguez-Almagro Julian , Hernández-Martínez Antonio
Published: March 2024

To determine the usefulness of combining two methodologies (OSCE and escape room) in a scenario simulation to evaluate a subject, and determine the evaluation of the students of this experience. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out with students enrolled in a sexual and reproductive health-care course as a part of their nursing degree. The students had to solve four clinical cases based on the contents of the teaching practices of the subject by solving clues that led them to carry out procedures and techniques and provide care in scenario simulators. Students evaluated the experience using the GAMEX (Gameful Experience in Gamification) scale. Mean differences were estimated with their respective 95% confidence intervals. A total of 124 students participated. Of these, 63.7% (79) solved the clinical cases with their knowledge and skills. Most (80.6%, 100) students stated that they completely remembered and applied the knowledge of the topic during the game. Almost all (98.4%, 122) would recommend this experience. The dimensions with the best rating on the GAMEX scale were “fun”, with an average score of 4.7 points (0.49), followed by “critical thinking”, with 4.2 (0.59). Women presented statistically better scores than men (mean difference: 1.58; 95% CI: 0.55, 2.61). The OSCE combined with an escape room using scenario simulations may be a useful tool to evaluate the subject. In addition, the students were satisfied, had fun, and recommended the experience. This study was not registered.
A Method for Correcting Signal Aberrations in Ultrasonic Indoor Positioning
Authors: Carotenuto Riccardo , Iero Demetrio , Merenda Massimo
Published: March 2024

The increasing focus on the development of positioning techniques reflects the growing interest in applications and services based on indoor positioning. Many applications necessitate precise indoor positioning or tracking of individuals and assets, leading to rapid growth in products based on these technologies in certain market sectors. Ultrasonic systems have already proven effective in achieving the desired positioning accuracy and refresh rates. The typical signal used in ultrasonic positioning systems for estimating the range between the target and reference points is the linear chirp. Unfortunately, it can undergo shape aberration due to the effects of acoustic diffraction when the aperture exceeds a certain limit. The extent of the aberration is influenced by the shape and size of the transducer, as well as the angle at which the transducer is observed by the receiver. This aberration also affects the shape of the cross-correlation, causing it to lose its easily detectable characteristic of a single global peak, which typically corresponds to the correct lag associated with the signal’s time of arrival. In such instances, cross-correlation techniques yield results with a significantly higher error than anticipated. In fact, the correct lag no longer corresponds to the peak of the cross-correlation. In this study, an alternative technique to global peak detection is proposed, leveraging the inherent symmetry observed in the shape of the aberrated cross-correlation. The numerical simulations, performed using the academic acoustic simulation software Field II, conducted using a typical ultrasonic chirp and ultrasonic emitter, compare the classical and the proposed range techniques in a standard office room. The analysis includes the effects of acoustical reflection in the room and of the acoustic noise at different levels of power. The results demonstrate that the proposed technique enables accurate range estimation even in the presence of severe cross-correlation shape aberrations and for signal-to-noise ratio levels common in office and room environments, even in presence of typical reflections. This allows the use of emitting transducers with a much larger aperture than that allowed by the classical cross-correlation technique. Consequently, it becomes possible to have greater acoustic power available, leading to improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR).
Modified Uni-Traveling-Carrier Photodetector with Its Optimized Cliff Layer
Authors: Dong Xiaowen , Liu Kai
Published: March 2024

We have designed the MUTC-PD with an optimized thickness of cliff layer to pre-distort the electric field at the front side of the collection layer. With the optimized MUTC-PD design, the collapse of the electric field will be greatly suppressed, and the electrons in its collection layer will gradually reach their peak velocity with the growing incident light power. Moreover, as the incident light intensity increases, the differential capacitance also declines, thus the total bandwidth grows. It will make the MUTC-PD achieve high-speed and high-power response performance simultaneously. Based on simulation, for 16μm MUTC-PD with a 70 nm cliff layer, the maximum 3 dB bandwidth at −5 V is 137 GHz, compared with 64 GHz for the MUTC-PD with a 30 nm cliff layer. The saturation RF output power is 27.4 dBm at 60 GHz.
Multispectral Thermometry Method Based on Optimisation Ideas
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Liu Bin , Wang Hongru , Ma Wen , Han Yan
Published: March 2024

Multispectral thermometry is based on the law of blackbody radiation and is widely used in engineering practice today. Temperature values can be inferred from radiation intensity and multiple sets of wavelengths. Multispectral thermometry eliminates the requirements for single-spectral and spectral similarity, which are associated with two-colour thermometry. In the process of multispectral temperature inversion, the solution of spectral emissivity and multispectral data processing can be seen as the keys to accurate thermometry. At present, spectral emissivity is most commonly estimated using assumption models. When an assumption model closely matches an actual situation, the inversion of the temperature and the accuracy of spectral emissivity are both very high; however, when the two are not closely matched, the inversion result is very different from the actual situation. Assumption models of spectral emissivity exhibit drawbacks when used for thermometry of a complex material, or any material whose properties dynamically change during a combustion process. To address the above problems, in the present study, we developed a multispectral thermometry method based on optimisation ideas. This method involves analysing connections between measured temperatures of each channel in a multispectral temperature inversion process; it also makes use of correlations between multispectral signals at different temperatures. In short, we established a multivariate temperature difference correlation function based on the principles of multispectral radiometric thermometry, using information correlations between data for each channel in a temperature inversion process. We then established a high-precision thermometry model by optimising the correlation function and correcting any measurement errors. This method simplifies the modelling process so that it becomes an optimisation problem of the temperature difference function. This also removes the need to assume the relationships between spectral emissivity and other physical quantities, simplifying the process of multispectral thermometry. Finally, this involves correction of the spectral data so that any impact of measurement error on the thermometry is reduced. In order to verify the feasibility and reliability of the method, a simple eight-channel multispectral thermometry device was used for experimental validation, in which the temperature emitted from a blackbody furnace was identified as the standard value. In addition, spectral data from the 468–603 nm band were calibrated within a temperature range of 1923.15–2273.15 K, resulting in multispectral thermometry based on optimisation principles with an error rate of around 0.3% and a temperature calculation time of less than 3 s. The achieved level of inversion accuracy was better than that obtained using either a secondary measurement method (SMM) or a neural network method, and the calculation speed achieved was considerably faster than that obtained using the SMM method.
Heart Rate Variability Monitoring Based on Doppler Radar Using Deep Learning
Authors: Yuan Sha , Fan Shaocan , Deng Zhenmiao , Pan Pingping
Published: March 2024

The potential of microwave Doppler radar in non-contact vital sign detection is significant; however, prevailing radar-based heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) monitoring technologies often necessitate data lengths surpassing 10 s, leading to increased detection latency and inaccurate HRV estimates. To address this problem, this paper introduces a novel network integrating a frequency representation module and a residual in residual module for the precise estimation and tracking of HR from concise time series, followed by HRV monitoring. The network adeptly transforms radar signals from the time domain to the frequency domain, yielding high-resolution spectrum representation within specified frequency intervals. This significantly reduces latency and improves HRV estimation accuracy by using data that are only 4 s in length. This study uses simulation data, Frequency-Modulated Continuous-Wave radar-measured data, and Continuous-Wave radar data to validate the model. Experimental results show that despite the shortened data length, the average heart rate measurement accuracy of the algorithm remains above 95% with no loss of estimation accuracy. This study contributes an efficient heart rate variability estimation algorithm to the domain of non-contact vital sign detection, offering significant practical application value.
A Non-inductive Coil Design Used to Provide High-Frequency and Large Currents
Authors: Zhu Qing , Su Yu
Published: March 2024

Currently, cutting-edge, high-frequency current sources are limited by switching devices and wire materials, and the output current cannot take into account the demands of a high peak and low rise time at the same time. Based on the output demand of a current source, a non-inductive coil for providing high-frequency, high current sources with low rise times is designed. The coil is appropriately designed according to the principle of the ampere-turn method, where several turns of wire are utilized to linearly synthesize the current to obtain high-frequency currents with amplitudes up to 30 kA. However, the inductance formed after winding the coil could possess a hindering effect on the high-frequency current. In the present investigation, based on the law of energy conservation and utilizing the principle of transformer coupling, the inductor’s hindering effect on high-frequency currents is appropriately eliminated by consuming the stored energy of the inductor innovatively. Theoretical calculations and practical tests show that the inductance of a two-layer 28-turn coil is 42 times smaller than that of a two-layer, 28-turn perfect circular spiral PCB coil. The measured inductance is only 6.69 μH, the output current amplitude is calculated to be up to 33 kA with a rise time of 20 ns, and the output waveform corresponding to a 1 MHz square wave is not remarkably distorted. This effective design idea could be very helpful in solving the problem of high peak values and low rise times in high-frequency, high-current source output design.
Securing Your Airspace: Detection of Drones Trespassing Protected Areas
Authors: Famili Alireza , Stavrou Angelos , Wang Haining , Park Jung-Min (Jerry) , Gerdes Ryan
Published: March 2024

Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) deployment has risen rapidly in recent years. They are now used in a wide range of applications, from critical safety-of-life scenarios like nuclear power plant surveillance to entertainment and hobby applications. While the popularity of drones has grown lately, the associated intentional and unintentional security threats require adequate consideration. Thus, there is an urgent need for real-time accurate detection and classification of drones. This article provides an overview of drone detection approaches, highlighting their benefits and limitations. We analyze detection techniques that employ radars, acoustic and optical sensors, and emitted radio frequency (RF) signals. We compare their performance, accuracy, and cost under different operating conditions. We conclude that multi-sensor detection systems offer more compelling results, but further research is required.
Development, Validation, and Comparison of a Novel Nociception/Anti-Nociception Monitor against Two Commercial Monitors in General Anesthesia
Authors: Ionescu Clara M. , Copot Dana , Yumuk Erhan , De Keyser Robin , Muresan Cristina , Birs Isabela Roxana , Ben Othman Ghada , Farbakhsh Hamed , Ynineb Amani R. , Neckebroek Martine
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we present the development and the validation of a novel index of nociception/anti-nociception (N/AN) based on skin impedance measurement in time and frequency domain with our prototype AnspecPro device. The primary objective of the study was to compare the Anspec-PRO device with two other commercial devices (Medasense, Medstorm). This comparison was designed to be conducted under the same conditions for the three devices. This was carried out during total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA) by investigating its outcomes related to noxious stimulus. In a carefully designed clinical protocol during general anesthesia from induction until emergence, we extract data for estimating individualized causal dynamic models between drug infusion and their monitored effect variables. Specifically, these are Propofol hypnotic drug to Bispectral index of hypnosis level and Remifentanil opioid drug to each of the three aforementioned devices. When compared, statistical analysis of the regions before and during the standardized stimulus shows consistent difference between regions for all devices and for all indices. These results suggest that the proposed methodology for data extraction and processing for AnspecPro delivers the same information as the two commercial devices.