bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Promising Method for the Determination of Cell Viability: The Membrane Potential Cell Viability Assay
Authors: Madorran Eneko , Stožer Andraž , Arsov Zoran , Maver Uroš , Rožanc Jan
Published: July 2022

Determining the viability of cells is fraught with many uncertainties. It is often difficult to determine whether a cell is still alive, approaching the point of no return, or dead. Today, there are many methods for determining cell viability. Most rely on an indirect determination of cell death (metabolism, molecular transport, and leakage, to name a few). In contrast, we have developed a promising novel method for a “direct” determination of cell viability. The potential method assesses cell membrane integrity (which is essential for all viable cells) by measuring the electrical potential of the cell membrane. To test the assay, we chose two different cell types, blood macrophages (TLT) and breast cancer epithelial cells (MCF 7). We exposed them to seven different toxic scenarios (arsenic (V), UV light, hydrogen peroxide, nutrient starvation, Tetrabromobisphenol A, fatty acids, and 5-fluorouracil) to induce different cell death pathways. Under controlled test conditions, the assay showed good accuracy when comparing the toxicity assessment with well-established methods. Moreover, the method showed compatibility with live cell imaging. Although we know that further studies are needed to confirm the performance of the assay in other situations, the results obtained are promising for their wider application in the future.
Complex Transcriptional Profiles of the PPP1R12A Gene in Cells of the Circulatory System as Revealed by In Silico Analysis and Reverse Transcription PCR
Authors: Saldanha Paulo André , Bolanle Israel Olapeju , Palmer Timothy Martin , Nikitenko Leonid Leonidovich , Rivero Francisco
Published: July 2022

The myosin light chain phosphatase target subunit 1 (MYPT1), encoded by the PPP1R12A gene, is a key component of the myosin light chain phosphatase (MLCP) protein complex. MYPT1 isoforms have been described as products of the cassette-type alternative splicing of exons E13, E14, E22, and E24. Through in silico analysis of the publicly available EST and mRNA databases, we established that PPP1R12A contains 32 exons (6 more than the 26 previously reported), of which 29 are used in 11 protein-coding transcripts. An in silico analysis of publicly available RNAseq data combined with validation by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR allowed us to determine the relative abundance of each transcript in three cell types of the circulatory system where MYPT1 plays important roles: human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), human saphenous vein smooth muscle cells (HSVSMC), and platelets. All three cell types express up to 10 transcripts at variable frequencies. HUVECs and HSVSMCs predominantly express the full-length variant (58.3% and 64.3%, respectively) followed by the variant skipping E13 (33.7% and 23.1%, respectively), whereas in platelets the predominant variants are those skipping E14 (51.4%) and E13 (19.9%), followed by the full-length variant (14.4%). Variants including E24 account for 5.4% of transcripts in platelets but are rare (<1%) in HUVECs and HSVSMCs. Complex transcriptional profiles were also found across organs using in silico analysis of RNAseq data from the GTEx project. Our findings provide a platform for future studies investigating the specific (patho)physiological roles of understudied MYPT1 isoforms.
Potential Cell-Based and Cell-Free Therapy for Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Tan Marselina Irasonia , Alfarafisa Nayla Majeda , Septiani Popi , Barlian Anggraini , Firmansyah Mochamad , Faizal Ahmad , Melani Lili , Nugrahapraja Husna
Published: July 2022

Since it was first reported, the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) remains an unresolved puzzle for biomedical researchers in different fields. Various treatments, drugs, and interventions were explored as treatments for COVID. Nevertheless, there are no standard and effective therapeutic measures. Meanwhile, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy offers a new approach with minimal side effects. MSCs and MSC-based products possess several biological properties that potentially alleviate COVID-19 symptoms. Generally, there are three classifications of stem cell therapy: cell-based therapy, tissue engineering, and cell-free therapy. This review discusses the MSC-based and cell-free therapies for patients with COVID-19, their potential mechanisms of action, and clinical trials related to these therapies. Cell-based therapies involve the direct use and injection of MSCs into the target tissue or organ. On the other hand, cell-free therapy uses secreted products from cells as the primary material. Cell-free therapy materials can comprise cell secretomes and extracellular vesicles. Each therapeutic approach possesses different benefits and various risks. A better understanding of MSC-based and cell-free therapies is essential for supporting the development of safe and effective COVID-19 therapy.
Biodetection Techniques for Quantification of Chemokines
Authors: Sánchez-Tirado Esther , Agüí Lourdes , González-Cortés Araceli , Yáñez-Sedeño Paloma , Pingarrón José M.
Published: July 2022

Chemokines are a class of cytokine whose special properties, together with their involvement and relevant role in various diseases, make them a restricted group of biomarkers suitable for diagnosis and monitoring. Despite their importance, biodetection techniques dedicated to the selective determination of one or more chemokines are very scarce. For some years now, the critical diagnosis of inflammatory diseases by detecting both cytokine and chemokine biomarkers, has had a strong impact on the development of multiple detection platforms. However, it would be desirable to implement methodologies with a higher degree of selectivity for chemokines, in order to provide more precise information. In addition, better development of biosensor technology applied to this specific field would make it possible to address the main challenges of detection methods for several diseases with a high incidence in the population, avoiding high costs and low sensitivity. Taking this into account, this review aims to present the state of the art of chemokine biodetection techniques and emphasize the role of these systems in the prevention, monitoring and treatment of various diseases associated with chemokines as a starting point for future developments that are also analyzed throughout the article.
Chemical Identification from Raman Peak Classification Using Fuzzy Logic and Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Angelini Federico , Santoro Simone , Colao Francesco
Published: July 2022

In spite of the wide use of Raman spectroscopy for chemical analysis in different fields, not any automated identification of Raman spectra is universally adopted. However, the interest in this field is witnessed by the large number of papers published in the last decades. The problem of Raman-spectra classification becomes particularly challenging when low irradiation is requested, either for safety reasons or to avoid target photodegradation. This often leads to spectra characterized by a low signal-to-noise ratio, where methods based on correlation usually fail. For this reason, a method based on peak identification through FMFs is presented, discussed and validated over a large set of samples. In particular, a Monte Carlo simulation has been employed to determine the best parameters of the fuzzy membership functions based on the analysis of performances of the classification procedure. The ROC curves have been analyzed, and AUC and best accuracy are employed as key parameters to evaluate the classification performances on different amounts of ammonium nitrate (from 300 to 1500 μg) and different laser exposure levels (from 3.1 to 250 mJ/cm2).
A Critical Review on the Use of Molecular Imprinting for Trace Heavy Metal and Micropollutant Detection
Authors: Tchekwagep Patrick Marcel Seumo , Crapnell Robert D. , Banks Craig E. , Betlem Kai , Rinner Uwe , Canfarotta Francesco , Lowdon Joseph W. , Eersels Kasper , van Grinsven Bart , Peeters Marloes , McClements Jake
Published: July 2022

Molecular recognition has been described as the “ultimate” form of sensing and plays a fundamental role in biological processes. There is a move towards biomimetic recognition elements to overcome inherent problems of natural receptors such as limited stability, high-cost, and variation in response. In recent years, several alternatives have emerged which have found their first commercial applications. In this review, we focus on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) since they present an attractive alternative due to recent breakthroughs in polymer science and nanotechnology. For example, innovative solid-phase synthesis methods can produce MIPs with sometimes greater affinities than natural receptors. Although industry and environmental agencies require sensors for continuous monitoring, the regulatory barrier for employing MIP-based sensors is still low for environmental applications. Despite this, there are currently no sensors in this area, which is likely due to low profitability and the need for new legislation to promote the development of MIP-based sensors for pollutant and heavy metal monitoring. The increased demand for point-of-use devices and home testing kits is driving an exponential growth in biosensor production, leading to an expected market value of over GPB 25 billion by 2023. A key requirement of point-of-use devices is portability, since the test must be conducted at “the time and place” to pinpoint sources of contamination in food and/or water samples. Therefore, this review will focus on MIP-based sensors for monitoring pollutants and heavy metals by critically evaluating relevant literature sources from 1993 to 2022.
Coping Style and Resilience Mediate the Effect of Childhood Maltreatment on Mental Health Symptomology
Authors: Cao Hua , Zhang Ruiqi , Li Ling , Yang Ling
Published: July 2022

Background: A well-known distal risk factor for mental health symptomology is childhood maltreatment. Previous research revealed that several mediators, such as coping style and resilience, might be connected to the psychological mechanism of childhood maltreatment on mental health symptomology. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess how coping style and resilience affect the relationship between childhood maltreatment and mental health symptomology of college students. Methods: With the method of cross-sectional survey, 740 college students from China (Gansu Province) completed the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), the Simplified Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ), the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and the Symptom Checklist 90 (SCL-90). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to reveal the link between childhood maltreatment, coping style, resilience, and mental health symptomology. Results: The results showe that childhood maltreatment was significantly positively correlated with mental health symptomology and significantly negatively correlated with coping style and resilience. Coping style was significantly negatively correlated with mental health symptomology and significantly positively correlated with resilience. Resilience was significantly negatively correlated with mental health symptomology. Coping style and resilience played a partially mediating role in the relationship between childhood maltreatment and college students’ mental health symptomology. Through a chain of intermediary effects on coping style and resilience, childhood maltreatment not only had a direct impact on mental health symptomology but also had an indirect impact. Conclusion: Childhood maltreatment could affect college students’ mental health symptomology through the chain mediating effect of coping style and resilience. Therefore, it is an effective way to reduce the influence of childhood maltreatment on mental health symptomology through some intervention measures to cultivate positive coping style and improve resilience.
Food Insecurity, Dietary Intakes, and Eating Behaviors in a Convenience Sample of Toronto Youth
Authors: Dubelt-Moroz Alexandra , Warner Marika , Heal Bryan , Khalesi Saman , Wegener Jessica , Totosy de Zepetnek Julia O. , Lee Jennifer J. , Polecrone Taylor , El-Sarraj Jasmin , Holmgren Emelie , Bellissimo Nick
Published: July 2022

Background: Food insecurity has been shown to be associated with poor dietary quality and eating behaviors, which can have both short- and long-term adverse health outcomes in children. The objective was to investigate the food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors in a convenience sample of youth participating in the Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment LaunchPad programming in downtown Toronto, Ontario. Methods: Youth aged 9–18 years were recruited to participate in the study. Food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors were collected using parent- or self-reported questionnaires online. Results: Sixty-six youth (mean ± SD: 11.7 ± 1.9 years) participated in the study. The prevalence of household food insecurity was higher than the national average with at least one child under 18 years of age (27.7% vs. 16.2%). Dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends with low intakes of fiber, inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D; and excess intakes of sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Despite a low prevalence of poor eating habits, distracted eating was the most frequently reported poor eating habit. Conclusions: Although youth were at high risk for experiencing household food insecurity, inadequate dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends. Our findings can be used to develop future programming to facilitate healthy dietary behaviors appropriate for the target community.
Interventions for Promoting Meconium Passage in Very Preterm Infants—A Survey of Current Practice at Tertiary Neonatal Centers in Germany
Authors: Gross Maximilian , Hummler Helmut , Haase Bianca , Quante Mirja , Wiechers Cornelia , Poets Christian F.
Published: July 2022

Meconium passage is often delayed in preterm infants. Faster meconium passage appears to shorten the time to full enteral feeds, while severely delayed meconium passage may indicate meconium obstruction. Neonatologists often intervene to promote meconium passage, assuming that benefits outweigh potential risks such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We performed an anonymous online survey on different approaches to facilitate meconium passage among tertiary neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) in Germany between February 2022 and April 2022. We collected information on enteral nutrition, gastrointestinal complications, and interventions to promote meconium passage. We received 102 completed questionnaires (response rate 64.6%). All responders used interventions to promote meconium passage, including enemas (92.0%), orally applied contrast agents (61.8%), polyethylene glycol (PEG) (46.1%), acetylcysteine (19.6%), glycerin suppositories (11.0%), and maltodextrin (8.8%). There was substantial heterogeneity among NICUs regarding frequency, composition, and mode of administration. We found no differences in NEC incidence between users and nonusers of glycerin enemas, high or low osmolar contrast agents, or PEG. There is wide variability in interventions used to promote meconium passage in German NICUs, with little or no evidence for their efficacy and safety. Within this study design, we could not identify an increased risk of NEC with any intervention reported.
The Lockdown Impact on the Relations between Portuguese Parents and Their 1- to 3-Year-Old Children during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Vian Frederica , Amaro Rita , Pinto Sofia Vaz , de Brito Henrique , Rodrigues Raissa , Rapazote Rita , da Silva Pedro Caldeira , Alves Marta , Papoila Ana Luisa
Published: July 2022

Many countries have applied mandatory confinement measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as school and kindergarten closures, which confined families to their homes. The study concerns the impacts of the first COVID-19 lockdown on the relationships between Portuguese parents and their children, in a non-clinical population composed of fathers and mothers of children between the ages of 12 months and 3 years and 364 days. An online questionnaire (set by the research team) and the Parenting Daily Hassles Scale (PDHS) concerning the confinement period were applied between 17 June and 29 July 2020. To assess the impacts of the lockdown, outcomes regarding the impacts perceived by the parents, the potential regression in the development of children, and the willingness to promote changes in family routines in the future, were considered. Of the total sample (n = 1885), 95.4% of the parents (n = 1798) said that, after confinement, the relationship with their children had improved or remained similar to the pre-confinement period; 97.3% (n = 1835) noticed positive changes in the development of their children, and 63.7% (n = 1200) noted that the relationships with their children during the confinement period would lead to some changes in family routines in the future. Multivariate regression analyses showed that most of the sociodemographic variables chosen were not associated with the outcomes. However, significant levels of pressure over parenting and parental overload (reported by high scores in the PDHS intensity and frequency scales), challenging behaviors of the children, and the impacts they had on parental tasks had negative influences on the studied outcomes. On the contrary, the number of adults living with their children, the perceptions regarding the development of their children, and sharing new experiences with them were significant factors for positively-perceived impacts on the relationships between them or in the desire to bring about changes in family routines in the future. The impacts of the lockdown on the relationships between parents and children aged between 1 and 3 years old were more dependent on relational aspects and on the parents’ sense of competence in exercising parental functions. We conclude that, despite the increased demands imposed by the lockdown, nearly all of the parents evaluated the quality of the relationship with their children as positive after this period.
Genome-Wide Identification of DUF26 Domain-Containing Genes in Dongxiang Wild Rice and Analysis of Their Expression Responses under Submergence
Authors: Huang Cheng , Wang Dianwen , Chen Hongping , Deng Wei , Chen Dazhou , Chen Ping , Wang Jilin
Published: July 2022

The DUF26 domain-containing protein is an extracellular structural protein, which plays an important role in signal transduction. Dongxiang wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.) is the northern-most common wild rice in China. Using domain analysis, 85 DUF26 domain-containing genes were identified in Dongxiang wild rice (DXWR) and further divided into four categories. The DUF26 domain-containing genes were unevenly distributed on chromosomes, and there were 18 pairs of tandem repeats. Gene sequence analysis showed that there were significant differences in the gene structure and motif distribution of the DUF26 domain in different categories. Motifs 3, 8, 9, 13, 14, 16, and 18 were highly conserved in all categories. It was also found that there were eight plasmodesmata localization proteins (PDLPs) with a unique motif 19. Collinearity analysis showed that DXWR had a large number of orthologous genes with wheat, maize, sorghum and zizania, of which 17 DUF26 domain-containing genes were conserved in five gramineous crops. Under the stress of anaerobic germination and seedling submergence treatment, 33 DUF26 domain-containing genes were differentially expressed in varying degrees. Further correlation analysis with the expression of known submergence tolerance genes showed that these DUF26 domain-containing genes may jointly regulate the submergence tolerance process with these known submergence tolerance genes in DXWR.
Prediction of Dropout in a Randomized Controlled Trial of Adjunctive Light Treatment in Patients with Non-Seasonal Depression and Evening Chronotype
Authors: Chan Joey W.Y. , Li Shirley Xin , Chau Steven Wai Ho , Chan Ngan Yin , Zhang Jihui , Wing Yun Kwok
Published: July 2022

The current study examined the possible predictors of dropout during a five-week light treatment (LT) with a gradual advance protocol in 93 patients with unipolar non-seasonal depression and evening chronotypes by comparing their clinical characteristics and performing a logistic regression analysis. Nineteen out of ninety-three (20%) subjects (80% female, 46.5 ± 11.7 years old) dropped out during the 5-week light treatment. Treatment non-adherence (i.e., receiving LT for less than 80% of the prescribed duration) over the first treatment week predicted a five-fold increase in risk of dropout during light therapy (OR: 5.85, CI: 1.41–24.21) after controlling for potential confounders, including age, gender, treatment group, rise time at the baseline, patient expectation, and treatment-emergent adverse events. There is a need to incorporate strategies to enhance treatment adherence and retention in both research and clinical settings. Chinese clinical trial registry (ChiCTR-IOR-15006937).
Spectroscopic Analysis of CF4/O2 Plasma Mixed with N2 for Si3N4 Dry Etching
Authors: Song Wan Soo , Kang Ju Eun , Hong Sang Jeen
Published: July 2022

Silicon nitride (Si3N4) etching using CF4/O2 mixed with N2 has become very popular in 3D NAND flash structures. However, studies on Si3N4 dry etching based on optical emission spectroscopy (OES) are lacking; in particular, no study has reported the use of OES for analyzing N2-mixed CF4/O2 plasma. Thus, this study demonstrates an OES-based approach for analyzing a mixed-gas plasma for etching Si3N4 thin films. The state of each single gas plasma of CF4, O2, and N2 as well as that of mixed plasmas of heterogeneous gases CF4/O2, CF4/N2, and O2/N2 was investigated to analyze the mixed-gas plasma. Furthermore, the amount of N2 in the CF4/O2 plasma varied from 0 to 8 sccm. The relationship between the OES analysis results and the Si3N4 etch rate was subsequently established using Si3N4 film etching, and the explanation was verified through a chemical reaction modeling and surface reaction. Therefore, our study confirmed the alteration in chemical species and quantity that occurred when N2 was added to CF4/O2 plasma and the effect of the alteration on Si3N4 etch.
Risk/Benefit Profiles of Currently Approved Oral Antivirals for Treatment of COVID-19: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Corritori Suzana , Savchuk Nikolay , Pauza C. David
Published: July 2022

A complete response to the challenge of COVID-19 requires diagnosis, prevention, and treatment strategies. Until recently, the treatment arm has included largely ineffective, often unproven medications with minimal impact on disease outcomes. The earlier experimental therapies are now giving way to approved antiviral drugs with a demonstrated capacity for SARS-CoV-2 suppression, and more are on the way. New oral antiviral drugs will expand treatment options for persons with COVID-19 and, if used early, become the first line of defense for reducing hospitalization, mortality, and virus spread. Several oral medications have been approved for treating COVID-19 on an emergency use basis in the United States (US), European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), China, Russia, and India, with other countries now facilitating regulatory reviews and approvals. Here, we compare the risk/benefit profiles of three leading oral antiviral drugs: Favipiravir, Molnupiravir, and Paxlovid. These compounds have distinct features supporting their targeted use by persons with COVID-19 disease.
Environmental Preferences of an Invasive Plant Species, Bidens frondosa (Asteraceae), in European Russia and Western Siberia
Authors: Khapugin Anatoliy A. , Kuzmin Igor V. , Ivanov Leonid A. , Ronzhina Dina A. , Ivanova Larissa A.
Published: July 2022

To identify habitat conditions, indirect ordination methods on the basis of environmental scales are used widely in Europe. However, many alien plants are absent from those scales. Bidens frondosa (Asteraceae) is an invasive alien species distributed widely in Europe. It is becoming a significant part of natural plant communities, sometimes forming monospecific stands. This study aimed to empirically determine environmental factor values using analysis of the flora accompanying B. frondosa in 22 regions of European Russia collected in a 34-year time span. In European Russia, Tsyganov environmental scales are widely used for such analyses. We determined intervals of values for each environmental factor according to Tsyganov environmental scales, namely thermoclimatic scale (TM: 7.3–9.4), climate continentality (KN: 6.0–9.4), climate aridity/humidity (OM: 6.1–8.6), cryoclimatic scale (CR: 5.3–8.8), soil moisture (HD: 9.9–17.6), scale of the soil salt regimen (TR: 5.1–10.7), soil nitrogen availability (NT: 4.4–8.5), soil pH (RC: 4.8–8.8), habitat shading (LC: 2.0–4.5), and soil-moisture variability (FH: 0.7–5.9). These data on environmental factor values can be further used in ordination analyses of plant communities where B. frondosa appears in the subzone of coniferous-deciduous forests of Eastern Europe. Results of this study demonstrate the ecological preferences of this species and can be used to determine conditions of habitats invaded by B. frondosa.
Shading Gradients Drive Differential Responses of Leaf Traits in an Early Community Germinated by Forest Topsoil
Authors: Chen Fajun , Zhao Gaojuan , Shen Youxin , Li Zhenjiang , Tan Beilin , Zhu Hong , Wang Qinghe , Fu Xun
Published: July 2022

Seedling performance in the early stage is crucial to natural forest restoration, and functional traits have been widely employed in exploring plant adaptation under field conditions. However, the responses and variabilities of leaf traits have not been clearly defined at the light gradients that are used in restoration practices. We evaluated the variation in leaf treats in species and community levels in a controlled field plot with shading treatments. We found that the variation characteristics differed across different species and trait types along shading gradients. Individuals of most species had a larger leaf area (LA) and specific leaf area (SLA) in the shaded habitats, while only a few tree species showed significant responses in their leaf shape and chlorophyll concentration. Although LA and SLA showed similar directions and trends of changes in the trait mean, four response models were observed based on the light points corresponding to initial responses and following trends. The extent of within-species trait variation for each treatment was similar at the community level due to diverse changes in the direction and degrees of variation in co-occurring species. Intraspecific variation was limited within each shading treatment, while it noticeably contributed to the local adaptation in the entire heterogeneous restoration community. Our findings indicate that species with different trait combinations will have different responses to light gradients, and that the mean and degree of variation in leaf traits will also lead to distinctive strategies being created to match the different shading conditions. Vegetation restoration should consider the adaptive traits and their response diversity when selecting species and for habitat management with specific trait–environment interactions.
Analyses of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Paraconiothyrium sp. and Gene Rearrangement Diversity in the Pleosporales
Authors: An Jiaqi , Fan Chunli , Fu Zuoyi , Zhang Hongping , Yang Pu
Published: July 2022

The Pleosporales is the most predominant order in the Dothideomycetes class, which contains over 4700 species that function in a variety of ways. The material used in this research was previously isolated from the Chinese white wax scale insect, and it was determined to be a Paraconiothyrium genus species that belonged to the Pleosporales order. For further molecular analysis, we assembled the complete mitochondrial genome of Paraconiothyrium sp. based on short reads of BGISEQ sequencing and subreads from Pacbio sequencing. The results showed that it was 42,734 bp in length and contained 8 open reading frames, 12 protein-coding genes and 31 non-coding genes. Phylogenetic analysis showed it was affiliated to the Pleosporales order and formed a sister relationship with Pithomyces chartarum. Compared to the seven other species in the Pleosporales order, Paraconiothyrium sp. has generally conserved gene content and structure, while the homologous blocks and gene order were shown to be significantly rearranged, in accordance with the species diversity in the Pleosporales order. In this study, we presented the first mitochondrial genome of Paraconiothyrium fungi to be reported, and we also showed gene order diversity in the Pleosporales order. These findings will lay the foundation for further species studies regarding molecular diversity and our understanding of species characteristics in the Paraconiothyrium genus.
The Structure of Chaos: An Empirical Comparison of Fractal Physiology Complexity Indices Using NeuroKit2
Authors: Makowski Dominique , Te An Shu , Pham Tam , Lau Zen Juen , Chen S. H. Annabel
Published: July 2022

Complexity quantification, through entropy, information theory and fractal dimension indices, is gaining a renewed traction in psychophsyiology, as new measures with promising qualities emerge from the computational and mathematical advances. Unfortunately, few studies compare the relationship and objective performance of the plethora of existing metrics, in turn hindering reproducibility, replicability, consistency, and clarity in the field. Using the NeuroKit2 Python software, we computed a list of 112 (predominantly used) complexity indices on signals varying in their characteristics (noise, length and frequency spectrum). We then systematically compared the indices by their computational weight, their representativeness of a multidimensional space of latent dimensions, and empirical proximity with other indices. Based on these considerations, we propose that a selection of 12 indices, together representing 85.97% of the total variance of all indices, might offer a parsimonious and complimentary choice in regards to the quantification of the complexity of time series. Our selection includes CWPEn, Line Length (LL), BubbEn, MSWPEn, MFDFA (Max), Hjorth Complexity, SVDEn, MFDFA (Width), MFDFA (Mean), MFDFA (Peak), MFDFA (Fluctuation), AttEn. Elements of consideration for alternative subsets are discussed, and data, analysis scripts and code for the figures are open-source.
The Influence of E-HRM on Modernizing the Role of HRM Context
Authors: De Alwis Adambarage Chamaru , Andrlić Berislav , Šostar Marko
Published: July 2022

Human Resource Management (HRM) practitioners must play multiple roles to achieve both functional and organizational objectives. In the current business environment, Electronic Human Resource Management (E-HRM) is a pervasive application of Information Technology (IT), and its global adoption is now widespread. This study’s primary objective is to determine the effect of E-HRM implementation in Sri Lanka on the evolving HRM function. The study employed a qualitative methodology. On the basis of prior research, a study framework was formulated. After collecting the findings, the researcher analyzed the data using the study framework. To answer the research question and attain the research objectives, the researcher compared the theory to the findings during the analysis. The researcher determined that HRM was unfamiliar with E-HRM applications but was utilizing E-HR tools in their daily operations. According to the study, HRM places a greater emphasis on administrative tasks. The greatest benefit of implementing E-HRM practice is that it liberates HRM from intermediary roles, allowing them to focus on strategic planning in HR organizations and transforming HR practitioners from administrative paper handlers to strategic planners.
Global Evidence on Flipped Learning in Higher Education
Authors: González-Zamar Mariana-Daniela , Abad-Segura Emilio
Published: July 2022

The teaching dynamic has positioned flipped learning as a pedagogical model, a methodology that helps teachers prioritize active learning during class time by assigning students reading materials and presentations to view at home or outside of class. The objective was to determine the original stages, expansion and current situation of the flipped learning methodology. A bibliometric analysis of 654 documents was carried out. The results reveal that scientific productivity follows an increasing linear trend, with the main categories being Social Sciences and Computer Science. The lines of research developed in this period related to learning, online learning, teaching, distance education, higher education and educational innovation were identified. It was found that the research topic has a growing and dynamic interest in scientific activity at the international level. The analysis documented a rapidly growing knowledge base, primarily written by scholars located in developed societies. This study supposes an analysis of the scientific production and of the actors who stimulate the investigation, as well as the identification of the lines of investigation.
A DASKL Descriptor via Encoding the Information of Keypoints and a 3D Local Surface for 3D Matching
Authors: Wu Yuanhao , Wang Chunyang , Liu Xuelian , Shi Chunhao , Li Xuemei
Published: July 2022

Three-dimensional matching is widely used in 3D vision tasks, such as 3D reconstruction, target recognition, and 3D model retrieval. The description of local features is the fundamental task of 3D matching; however, the descriptors only encode the surrounding surfaces of keypoints, and thus they cannot distinguish between similar local surfaces of objects. Therefore, we propose a novel local feature descriptor called deviation angle statistics of keypoints from local points and adjacent keypoints (DASKL). To encode a local surface fully, we first calculate a multiscale local reference axis (LRA); second, a local consistent strategy is used to redirect the normal direction, and the Poisson-disk sampling strategy is used to eliminate the redundancy in the data. Finally, the local surface is subdivided by two kinds of spatial features, and the histogram of the deviation angle between the LRA and the normal point in each subdivision space is generated. For the coding between keypoints, we calculate the LRA deviation angle between the nearest three keypoints and the adjacent keypoint. The performance of our DASKL descriptor is evaluated on several datasets (i.e., B3R, UWAOR, and LIDAR) with respect to Gaussian noise, varying mesh resolutions, clutter, and occlusion. The results show that our DASKL descriptor has achieved excellent performance in terms of description, robustness, and efficiency. Moreover, we further evaluate the generalization ability of the DASKL descriptor in a LIDAR real-scene dataset.
Situating Learning in AR Fantasy, Design Considerations for AR Game-Based Learning for Children
Authors: Zuo Tengjia , Jiang Jixiang , Spek Erik Van der , Birk Max , Hu Jun
Published: July 2022

(1) Background: Augmented reality (AR) game-based learning, has received increased attention in recent years. Fantasy is a vital gaming feature that promotes engagement and immersion experience for children. However, situating learning with AR fantasy to engage learners and fit pedagogical contexts needs structured analysis of educational scenarios for different subjects. (2) Methods: We present a combined study using our own built AR games, MathMythosAR2 for mathematics learning, and FancyBookAR for English as second-language learning. For each game, we created a fantasy and a real-life narrative. We investigated player engagement and teachers’ scaffolding through qualitative and quantitative research with 62 participants aged from 7 to 11 years old. (3) Results: We discovered that fantasy narratives engage students in mathematics learning while disengaging them in second-language learning. Participants report a higher imagination with fantasy narratives and a higher analogy with real-life narratives. We found that teachers’ scaffolding for MathMythosAR2 focused on complex interactions, for FancyBookAR, focused on story interpretation and knowledge explanation. (4) Conclusions: It is recommended to mix fantasy and real-life settings, and use simple AR interaction and pedagogical agents that enable teachers’ scaffolding seamlessly. The design of AR fantasy should evaluate whether the story is intrinsically related to the learning subjects, as well as the requirements of explicit explanation.
Performance and Efficiency Trade-Offs in Brazilian Passenger Vehicle Fleet
Authors: Mosquim Rafael Fernandes , Mady Carlos Eduardo Keutenedjian
Published: July 2022

The rate of technological progress is an important metric used for predicting the energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions of future light-duty fleets. A trade-off between efficiency and performance is essential due to its implications on fuel consumption and efficiency improvement. These values are not directly available in the Brazilian fleet. Hence, this is the main gap in knowledge that has to be overcome. Tendencies in all relevant parameters were also unknown, and we have traced them as well, established on several publications data and models. We estimate the three indicators mentioned above for the Brazilian fleet from 1990 to 2020. Although the rate of technological progress was lower in Brazil than that in developed countries, it has increased from 0.39% to 0.61% to 1.7% to 1.9% in subsequent decades. Performance improvements offset approximately 31% to 39% of these efficiency gains. Moreover, the vehicle market is shifting toward larger vehicles, thus offsetting some efficiency improvements. We predict the fleet fuel efficiency for the years 2030 and 2035 using the above-mentioned factors. The predicted values for efficiency can vary by a factor of two. Thus, trade-off policies play a vital role in steering toward the desired goals of reducing the transportation sector’s impact on the environment.
Turbulence Structure and Dynamics Investigation of Turbulent Swirl Flow in Pipe Using High-Speed Stereo PIV Data
Authors: Čantrak Djordje S. , Janković Novica Z.
Published: July 2022

Turbulent swirl flow, which exists in numerous turbomachinery systems, is the focus of this paper. It consumes a significant amount of energy, so it is a subject of investigation for many researchers. It is even more present in ventilation systems, as numerous axial fans are still installed without guide vanes. The experimental investigation of the turbulent swirl flow behind an axial fan in a pipe, installed in a test rig with a free inlet and ducted outlet, as defined in the international standard ISO 5801, is presented in this paper. Moreover, in this paper, the axially restricted case is studied. A designed axial fan generates a Rankine vortex with a complex structure, and research on the vortex turbulence structure and dynamics is presented. On the basis of the HSS PIV (high-speed stereo particle image velocimetry), measurement results are calculated using invariant maps. All states of turbulence anisotropy are thoroughly analyzed by applying the invariant theory on HSS PIV results. Vortex dynamics is observed on the basis of the total velocity minima positions and their repetitions. Both methods are correlated, and important conclusions regarding vortex behavior are deduced.
Gas Condensate Wells: Challenges of Sampling, Testing and Production Optimization
Authors: Muravyev Alexander V.
Published: July 2022

The main problem of fluid sampling during well testing of reservoirs with near-critical fluids (gas condensate and volatile oil) is due to the fact that even a small pressure drawdown usually leads to the formation of a two-phase mixture in the bottom hole area, and it is almost impossible to take representative samples with downhole samplers or a formation tester. Sampling via test-separator and the current non-separation methods are also imperfect. An alternative method—MIKS (Multiphase IsoKinetic Sampling)—of gas condensate well testing was proposed, which is based on emulsifying a multiphase flow to particles of about 1–10 μm. Thereby MIKS would eliminate the problem of particle slippage in a homogeneous flow and enables high-quality sampling directly from the flowmeter line. The initial formation fluid is characterized by the maximum value of the condensate-gas ratio (CGR). Therefore, first, the well effluent would be adjusted to the mode with the maximum CGR using a choke manifold and a multiphase flow meter. Then the flow mixture is transferred to a by-pass line with an emulsifier to achieve an isokinetic flow. Thereafter, pressure samples can be taken into pressurized sampling bottles, in which thermodynamic conditions are preset according to the flow line. The efficiency of sampling and recombining procedures allows for conducting a study of reservoir samples in the field laboratory directly on the rig and obtaining a complete PVT report even before the completion of drilling and abandonment of the well. An additional economic effect is achieved by reducing the costs of transporting and samples storage. Well test equipment setup becomes much more compact and less weight; the costs of drilling time are reduced, which is viably important for well testing on the Arctic conditions. Another major problem in the development of gas condensate reservoirs is avoiding the condensate banking around producing wells. Optimization of condensate production can be achieved by maintaining the well operation mode at maximum CGR level by means of multiphase flowmeters. The formed condensate bank can be destroyed by a combination of methods—hydraulic fracturing, followed by cycling process—purging the formation with dried gas and/or injection of methanol into the formation. Methanol can be obtained from synthesis gas as a by-product in the utilization of associated gas also at the field. The specified set of measures will allow to revive the GC wells that are losing productivity, as well as to extend the period of high productivity of new wells.
Optimal Design and Operation of Dual-Ejector PEMFC Hydrogen Supply and Circulation System
Authors: Chen Li , Xu Keda , Yang Zuyong , Yan Zhen , Dong Zuomin
Published: July 2022

A proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) system requires an adequate hydrogen supply and circulation to achieve its expected performance and operating life. An ejector-based hydrogen circulation system can reduce the operating and maintenance costs, noise, and parasitic power consumption by eliminating the recirculation pump. However, the ejector’s hydrogen entrainment capability, restricted by its geometric parameters and flow control variability, can only operate properly within a relatively narrow range of fuel cell output power. This research introduced the optimal design and operation control methods of a dual-ejector hydrogen supply/circulation system to support the full range of PEMFC system operations. The technique was demonstrated on a 70 kW PEMFC stack with an effective hydrogen entrainment ratio covering 8% to 100% of its output power. The optimal geometry design ensured each ejector covered a specific output power range with maximized entrainment capability. Furthermore, the optimal control of hydrogen flow and the two ejectors’ opening and closing times minimized the anode gas pressure fluctuation and reduced the potential harm to the PEMFC’s operation life. The optimizations were based on dedicated computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and system dynamics models and simulations. Bench tests of the resulting ejector-based hydrogen supply/circulation system verified the simulation and optimization results.
An Analysis of Thermal Comfort Models: Which One Is Suitable Model to Assess Thermal Reality in Brazil?
Authors: Niza Iasmin Lourenço , Broday Evandro Eduardo
Published: July 2022

The Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) has discrepancies in relation to the thermal reality of the environment; thus, adaptive models serve to improve this estimate. In this context, this research aimed to verify the performance of PMV and adaptive models under different conditions in Brazil from an analysis of variance and to further classify individuals into clusters according to their feelings of thermal comfort. Through ASHRAE’s Global II Thermal Comfort Database, users of offices and classrooms in Brasilia, Recife, Maceió, and Florianópolis were investigated. The results of ANOVA showed that the PMV model did not represent the thermal reality of any of the cities investigated, and the cluster analysis showed how most people felt thermally in relation to indoor environments.
Biomass Behavior upon Fast Pyrolysis in Inert and in CO2-Rich Atmospheres: Role of Lignin, Hemicellulose and Cellulose Content
Authors: Senneca Osvalda , Apicella Barbara , Russo Carmela , Cerciello Francesca
Published: July 2022

The present work focuses on the quality of char and primary tar produced from fast pyrolysis in N2 and CO2 of lignocellulosic biomasses: walnut shells (lignin-rich), straw (hemicellulose-rich) and pinewood (cellulose-rich). Heat treatments are carried out in a heated strip reactor (HSR) at 1573 and 2073 K for 3 s, with a heating rate of 104 K/s. The equipment allows for quenching the volatiles as soon as they are emitted. Chars are analyzed by thermogravimetric analysis in air. Results are compared with the products obtained from raw lignin, pure cellulose and pure hemicellulose. Cellulose and hemicellulose tars are dominated by anhydrous monosaccharides, which are scarce in straw tar and abundant in walnut shells tar. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PAHs are present in the primary products, in particular for walnut shells. The most reactive char is the one obtained from straw and the least reactive is the walnut shells char. Severe heat treatment and a CO2 atmosphere generate additional char components with higher and lower reactivity. The more reactive char component may arise from cross-linking reactions involving the monosaccharides (for which the result decreased in tar), whereas the less reactive component arises from thermal annealing and graphitization. Thus, the pyrolytic behavior of biomasses cannot be reconstructed with a mere addition of the lignin/cellulose/hemicellulose contribution, taking into account their content in the biomass.
Thermal Model Approach to the YASA Machine for In-Wheel Traction Applications
Authors: Wang Guangchen , Wang Yingjie , Gao Yuan , Hua Wei , Ni Qinan , Zhang Hengliang
Published: July 2022

The axial-flux permanent magnet (AFPM) machines with yokeless and segmented armature (YASA) topology are suitable for in-wheel traction systems due to the high power density and efficiency. To guarantee the reliable operation of the YASA machines, an accurate thermal analysis should be undertaken in detail during the electrical machine design phase. The technical contribution of this paper is to establish a detailed thermal analysis model of the YASA machine by the lumped parameter thermal network (LPTN) method. Compared with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method and the finite element (FE) method, the LPTN method can obtain an accurate temperature distribution with low time consumption. Firstly, the LPTN model of each component of the YASA machine is constructed with technical details. Secondly, the losses of the YASA machine are obtained by the electromagnetic FE analysis. Then, the temperature distribution of the machine can be calculated by the LPTN model and loss information. Finally, a prototype of the YASA machine is manufactured and its temperature distribution under different operating conditions is tested by TT-K-30 thermocouple temperature sensors. The experimental data matches the LPTN results well.