bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust in Scholarly Communications and Infrastructure: Indigenous Data Sovereignty
Authors: Ruckstuhl Katharina
Published: March 2022

Many Indigenous people have a deep mistrust of research, with some describing research as one of the “dirtiest” words in Indigenous language. The histories and experiences behind such mistrust are long and painful. Given what has been perceived as Indigenous objectification at the hands of largely Anglo-European others for research from which they fail to benefit, many communities now refuse research unless it is undertaken under certain, Indigenous-defined circumstances. Such refusal is a move away from others purposes and a move towards autonomy and self-determination. For some, this is a statement of sovereignty and it applies to all areas of endeavour, including the new frontiers of research and the structures that support them, such as datification of knowledge. This article examines data sovereignty from the perspective of Indigenous peoples. While data sovereignty has become a ubiquitous concern, Indigenous data sovereignty arises from contexts specific to Indigenous peoples. The focus of this article is to provide a brief overview of recent data sovereignty developments, along with the context that lies behind these activities. Through this examination, implications for trust in scholarly communications will be discussed.
Co-infection of Candidatus Piscichlamydia Trichopodus (Order Chlamydiales) and Henneguya sp. (Myxosporea, Myxobolidae) in Snakeskin Gourami Trichopodus pectoralis (Regan 1910)
Authors: Dinh-Hung Nguyen , Dong Ha Thanh , Soontara Chayanit , Rodkhum Channarong , Nimitkul Sukkrit , Srisapoome Prapansak , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Chatchaiphan Satid
Published: March 2022

The present study describes a simultaneous infection of a novel Chlamydia-like organism (CLO) with a Myxozoa parasite, Henneguya sp. in snakeskin gourami Trichopodus pectoralis in Thailand. A new CLO is proposed “Candidatus Piscichlamydia trichopodus” (CPT) based on 16S rRNA phylogenetic analysis. Systemic intracellular CPT infection was confirmed by histological examination, in situ hybridization, PCR assay, and sequencing of 16S rRNA. This novel pathogen belongs to the order Chlamydiales but differs in certain aspects from other species. The histopathological changes associated with CPT infection were different from the typical pathological lesions of epitheliocystis caused by previously known CLO. Unlike other CLO, CPT localized in the connective tissue rather than in the epithelial cells and formed smaller clumps of intracellular bacteria that stained dark blue with hematoxylin. On the other hand, typical myxospores of the genus Henneguya with tails were observed in the gill sections. Infection with Henneguya sp. resulted in extensive destruction of the gill filaments, most likely leading to respiratory distress. Due to the frequency of co-infections and the unavailability of culture methods for CLO and Henneguya sp., it was difficult to determine which pathogens were directly responsible for the associated mortality. However, co-infections may increase the negative impact on the host and the severity of the disease. Given the commercial importance of the snakeskin gourami and its significant aquaculture potential, the findings of this study are important for further studies on disease prevention.
Accounting for Missing Pedigree Information with Single-Step Random Regression Test-Day Models
Authors: Koivula Minna , Strandén Ismo , Aamand Gert P. , Mäntysaari Esa A.
Published: March 2022

Genomic selection is widely used in dairy cattle breeding, but still, single-step models are rarely used in national dairy cattle evaluations. New computing methods have allowed the utilization of very large genomic data sets. However, an unsolved model problem is how to build genomic- (G) and pedigree- (A22) relationship matrices that satisfy the theoretical assumptions about the same scale and equal base populations. Incompatibility issues have also been observed in the manner in which the genetic groups are included in the model. In this study, we compared three approaches for accounting for missing pedigree information: (1) GT_H used the full Quaas and Pollak (QP) transformation for the genetic groups, including both the pedigree-based and the genomic-relationship matrices, (2) GT_A22 used the partial QP transformation that omitted QP transformation in G−1, and (3) GT_MF used the metafounder approach. In addition to the genomic models, (4) an official animal model with a unknown parent groups (UPG) from the QP transformation and (5) an animal model with the metafounder approach were used for comparison. These models were tested with Nordic Holstein test-day production data and models. The test-day data included 8.5 million cows with a total of 173.7 million records and 10.9 million animals in the pedigree, and there were 274,145 genotyped animals. All models used VanRaden method 1 in G and had a 30% residual polygenic proportion (RPG). The G matrices in GT_H and GT_A22 were scaled to have an average diagonal equal to that of A22. Comparisons between the models were based on Mendelian sampling terms and forward prediction validation using linear regression with solutions from the full- and reduced-data evaluations. Models GT_H and GT_A22 gave very similar results in terms of overprediction. The MF approach showed the lowest bias.
Wound Retractor Laparoscopic Port System for Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Panthera leo
Authors: Lacitignola Luca , Laricchiuta Pietro , Imperante Annarita , Acquafredda Claudia , Stabile Marzia , Scardia Annalaura , Guadalupi Marta , Vicenti Caterina , Crovace Alberto , Staffieri Francesco
Published: March 2022

The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and intraoperative complications of performing ovariectomies in African lionesses (Panthera leo) using a wound retractor laparoscopic platform. Six lionesses (n = 6) were included. The surgical procedures were carried out through three portals, with a retractor platform positioned at the umbilical port and cannulas placed 3–4 cm from the cranial and caudal regions to the device at the level of the midline. An ovariectomy was performed with a vessel-sealing device. We evaluated the surgery time and the intraoperative and early postoperative complications. The mean weight was 172.83 kg. The total surgery time was 49.33 min. The installation step took a mean of 10.33 min to complete. The mean ovariectomy time was 20 min. Controlled bleeding was observed at the tip of the uterine horn in two cases due to excessive tissue thickness. The retrieval of dissected ovarian tissue and annexes was easily performed. No other complications were observed. The use of the laparoscopic platform during three-portal surgeries for laparoscopic ovariectomy in adult overweight lionesses is feasible and without intraoperative problems. The retractor meant that there were no entry-related issues due to the 25 mm mini-laparotomy. It also made it simpler to extract thick ovaries and promptly re-establish the pneumoperitoneum.
Facing the Increased Prevalence of Antibiotic-Resistant M. tuberculosis: Exploring the Feasibility of Realising Koch’s Aspiration of Immunotherapy of Tuberculosis
Authors: Bretscher Peter A.
Published: March 2022

Koch attempted to treat tuberculosis in the late 1800s by administering an antigenic extract derived from the pathogen to patients. He hoped to bolster the patient’s protective immunity. The treatment had diverse results. In some, it improved the patient’s condition and in others led to a worsening state and even to death. Koch stopped giving his experimental treatment. I consider here three issues pertinent to realizing Koch’s vision. Rational immunotherapy requires a knowledge of what constitutes protective immunity; secondly, how on-going immune responses are regulated, so the patient’s immunity can be modulated to become optimally protective; thirdly, a simple methodology by which treatment might be realized. I deliberately cast my account in simple terms to transcend barriers due to specialization. The proposed immunotherapeutic treatment, if realizable, would significantly contribute to overcoming problems of treatment posed by antibiotic resistance of the pathogen.
A Unique P450 Peroxygenase System Facilitated by a Dual-Functional Small Molecule: Concept, Application, and Perspective
Authors: Di Siyu , Fan Shengxian , Jiang Fengjie , Cong Zhiqi
Published: March 2022

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) are promising versatile oxidative biocatalysts. However, the practical use of P450s in vitro is limited by their dependence on the co-enzyme NAD(P)H and the complex electron transport system. Using H2O2 simplifies the catalytic cycle of P450s; however, most P450s are inactive in the presence of H2O2. By mimicking the molecular structure and catalytic mechanism of natural peroxygenases and peroxidases, an artificial P450 peroxygenase system has been designed with the assistance of a dual-functional small molecule (DFSM). DFSMs, such as N-(ω-imidazolyl fatty acyl)-l-amino acids, use an acyl amino acid as an anchoring group to bind the enzyme, and the imidazolyl group at the other end functions as a general acid-base catalyst in the activation of H2O2. In combination with protein engineering, the DFSM-facilitated P450 peroxygenase system has been used in various oxidation reactions of non-native substrates, such as alkene epoxidation, thioanisole sulfoxidation, and alkanes and aromatic hydroxylation, which showed unique activities and selectivity. Moreover, the DFSM-facilitated P450 peroxygenase system can switch to the peroxidase mode by mechanism-guided protein engineering. In this short review, the design, mechanism, evolution, application, and perspective of these novel non-natural P450 peroxygenases for the oxidation of non-native substrates are discussed.
A Dynamic Model for Estimating the Interaction of ROS–PUFA–Antioxidants in Rabbit
Authors: Mattioli Simona , Dimauro Corrado , Cesarani Alberto , Dal Bosco Alessandro , Bartolini Desiree , Galli Francesco , Migni Anna , Sebastiani Bartolomeo , Signorini Cinzia , Oger Camille , Collodel Giulia , Castellini Cesare
Published: March 2022

Defining optimal nutrition in animals and humans remains a main scientific challenge. The objective of the work was to develop a dynamic model of reactive oxygen species (ROS)–polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)–antioxidant homeostasis using the rabbit as a model. The problem entity was to evaluate the main metabolites generated from interactions between traits included in the conceptual model and identified by three main sub–models: (i) ROS generation, (ii) PUFA oxidation and (iii) antioxidant defence. A mathematical model (VENSIM software) that consisted of molecular stocks (INPUTs, OUTPUTs), exchange flows (intermediate OUTPUTs) and process rates was developed. The calibration was performed by using standard experimental data (Experiment 1), whereas the validation was carried out in Experiments 2 and 3 by using supra–nutritional dietary inputs (VIT E+ and PUFA+). The accuracy of the models was measured using 95% confidence intervals. Analytical OUTPUTs (ROS, PUFA, Vit E, Ascorbic acid, Iso–/NeuroProstanes, Aldehydes) were well described by the standard model. There was also good accuracy for the VIT E+ scenario, whereas some compensatory rates (Kc1–Kc4) were added to assess body compensation when high levels of dietary PUFA were administered (Experiment 3). In conclusion, the model can be very useful for predicting the effects of dietary treatments on the redox homeostasis of rabbits.
Study on Longitudinal Stress Relaxation Effect and Reinforcement Technology of Segment Lining during Shield Docking
Authors: Geng Zhe , Yuan Dajun , Wang Dan , Zhao Yajie , Xie Tingwei
Published: March 2022

Shield docking technology is widely used in underwater shield tunnels. As the technology is not perfect, the instability of the tunnel face and the stress relaxation of segment lining caused by shield dismantling need to be solved. Using a cross-sea tunnel project, the segment lining reinforcement technology with steel channel in the process of shield docking is studied. The longitudinal stress relaxation effect of segment lining after thrust unloading is analyzed, and the theoretical solution of segment circumferential joint opening, with or without steel channel reinforcement, is derived. The accuracy of the theoretical model and the shell connector numerical model is verified by comparison. Then, the influence of key parameters, such as reinforcement range, steel channel quantity and steel channel model, on reinforcement effect is discussed. The results show that: (1) with the increase in the range of reinforcement, the maximum longitudinal displacement and the opening of the circumferential joints decrease first and then increase; (2) with the increase in the quantity and model of the steel channel, the maximum longitudinal displacement and the opening of the circumferential joints gradually decrease, and the reduction rate also decreases. The farther away from the shield tail, the weaker the reinforcement effect on segment lining.
Multi-Modal Long-Term Person Re-Identification Using Physical Soft Bio-Metrics and Body Figure
Authors: Shoukry Nadeen , Abd El Ghany Mohamed A. , Salem Mohammed A.-M.
Published: March 2022

Person re-identification is the task of recognizing a subject across different non-overlapping cameras across different views and times. Most state-of-the-art datasets and proposed solutions tend to address the problem of short-term re-identification. Those models can re-identify a person as long as they are wearing the same clothes. The work presented in this paper addresses the task of long-term re-identification. Therefore, the proposed model is trained on a dataset that incorporates clothes variation. This paper proposes a multi-modal person re-identification model. The first modality includes soft bio-metrics: hair, face, neck, shoulders, and part of the chest. The second modality is the remaining body figure that mainly focuses on clothes. The proposed model is composed of two separate neural networks, one for each modality. For the first modality, a two-stream Siamese network with pre-trained FaceNet as a feature extractor for the first modality is utilized. Part-based Convolutional Baseline classifier with a feature extractor network OSNet for the second modality. Experiments confirm that the proposed model can outperform several state-of-the-art models achieving 81.4 % accuracy on Rank-1, 82.3% accuracy on Rank-5, 83.1% accuracy on Rank-10, and 83.7% accuracy on Rank-20.
NiO-Based Electronic Flexible Devices
Authors: Carbone Marilena
Published: March 2022

Personal, portable, and wearable electronics have become items of extensive use in daily life. Their fabrication requires flexible electronic components with high storage capability or with continuous power supplies (such as solar cells). In addition, formerly rigid tools such as electrochromic windows find new utilizations if they are fabricated with flexible characteristics. Flexibility and performances are determined by the material composition and fabrication procedures. In this regard, low-cost, easy-to-handle materials and processes are an asset in the overall production processes and items fruition. In the present mini-review, the most recent approaches are described in the production of flexible electronic devices based on NiO as low-cost material enhancing the overall performances. In particular, flexible NiO-based all-solid-state supercapacitors, electrodes electrochromic devices, temperature devices, and ReRAM are discussed, thus showing the potential of NiO as material for future developments in opto-electronic devices.
The Efficacy of Instrumental Physical Therapy through Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis: An Umbrella Review
Authors: Agostini Francesco , Mangone Massimiliano , Finamore Nikolaos , Di Nicola Marta , Papa Federico , Alessio Giuliano , Vetrugno Luigi , Chiaramonte Angelo , Cimbri Giorgia , Bernetti Andrea , Paoloni Marco , Paolucci Teresa
Published: March 2022

(1) Background: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is the most common cause of heel pain in adults. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a minimally invasive treatments commonly used for treating PF. Our aim is to provide a complete overview of which treatments have been compared to ESWT, with a focus on the modalities that have been used. (2) Methods: A thorough search of the literature was performed on Medline via Pubmed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (CDSR) of the Cochrane Library and Physiotherapy Evidence Databases (PEDro) up to 18 November 2021. In the study were included only systematic reviews and meta-analysis in English language, published from 2010 to date. (3) Results: A total of 14 systematic reviews and meta-analysis were included in the umbrella review. A total of eight studies compared the efficacy of ESWT treatment with placebo, three studies compared ESWT with another therapy (two studies compared ESWT and corticosteroids, one study ESWT and ultrasound therapy), and three studies had more than one comparison. (4) Conclusions: When compared to placebo, ESWT demonstrated to be effective. More randomized trials with specific comparisons between different types and intensity of SW are needed to obtain more precise information on SW effectiveness.
Virulence Factors and Antimicrobial Resistance in Salmonella Species Isolated from Retail Beef in Selected KwaZulu-Natal Municipality Areas, South Africa
Authors: Naidoo Serisha , Butaye Patrick , Maliehe Tsolanku S. , Magwedere Kudakwashe , Basson Albert K. , Madoroba Evelyn
Published: March 2022

Salmonellosis and antimicrobial resistance caused by non-typhoidal Salmonella are public health concerns. This study aimed at determining prevalence, serovars, virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella from beef products. Four-hundred beef samples from 25 retail outlets in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa were analyzed for Salmonella using standard methods, confirmation with matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight and serotyping according to the White–Kauffmann–Le Minor scheme. The Kirby Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine antimicrobial resistance against Cefotaxime, Kanamycin, Ampicillin, Amoxicillin, Trimethoprim Sulfamethoxazole, Ciprofloxacin, Chloramphenicol, Gentamicin Cefoxitin and Tetracycline. A polymerase chain reaction was performed to detect invA, agfA, lpfA, hilA, sivH, sefA, sopE, and spvC virulence genes. Salmonella was observed in 1.25% (5/400) of the samples. Four serovars (Enteritidis, Hadar, Heidelberg, Stanley) were identified. Almost all Salmonella were susceptible to all antimicrobials except S. Enteritidis isolate that was resistant to Tetracycline, Ampicillin and Amoxicillin. All Salmonella isolates carried at least two virulence factors. The findings indicate low Salmonella prevalence in meat from selected KZN retail beef; however, routine surveillance to monitor risk associated with virulence factors is required to mitigate potential outbreaks. The resistant S. Enteritidis highlights a need to routinely monitor antimicrobial resistance in order to enhance human health.
Topological Representative Element Volume of Fractured Rock Mass
Authors: Li Mingwei , Zhou Zhifang , Chen Meng , Wu Jian
Published: March 2022

The representative element volume (REV) of the fractured rock mass is the basis for its homogenization, and is essential for the study of groundwater seepage. In order to determine a simple method for estimating REV, we studied the topological characteristics of the fractured network. We propose the concept of topological representative element volume (TREV) for estimating the fractured rock mass. The topological structure can reflect many properties of the fractured rock mass, to which a great deal of attention has been paid. We examine the applicability of eleven topological parameters as the equivalent parameters of the TREV. According to the selected equivalent parameter, the TREV of twenty-three kinds of fractured rock mass were calculated and then compared with the permeability representative element volume (PREV). The results show that the size of TREV and PREV are essentially the same for a given rock mass. In other words, the PREV can be estimated accurately using the TREV for the rock mass with orthogonal connected fracture networks. The advantage of using TREV to estimate PREV is that there is no need for complex seepage calculations, as the calculation of TREV only needs to account for the geometric characteristics of the fracture network.
A Novel Approach for Fast Screening of a Complex Cyanobacterial Extract for Immunomodulatory Properties and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Teneva Ivanka , Batsalova Tsvetelina , Bardarov Krum , Moten Dzhemal , Dzhambazov Balik
Published: March 2022

The filamentous cyanobacteria from genus Phormidium are rich natural sources of bioactive compounds that could be exploited as pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals. In this study, we suggest a novel approach for assessing the immunomodulatory properties of the products derived from cyanobacteria. The influence of Phormidium papyraceum extract on the human leukocyte immunophenotype was evaluated by attempting to link this activity to certain putative compounds identified in the extract. By using three staining panels and flow cytometry, we found that the cyanobacterial extract affected mainly CD4+ T cells upregulating activated CD4+CD152+ T cells (15.75 ± 1.93% treated vs. 4.65 ± 1.41% control) and regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells (5.36 ± 0.64% treated vs. 1.03 ± 0.08% control). Furthermore, P. papyraceum extract can modulate T cell subpopulations with a CD4+ effector/memory phenotype. Extract-treated cells showed increased production of IL-2 (55 ± 12 pg/mL) and IL-6 (493 ± 64 pg/mL) compared to the untreated, 21 ± 7 pg/mL and 250 ± 39 pg/mL, respectively. No significant changes were observed in the secretion of TNF-α. In addition, P. papyraceum extract displayed antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative (inhibition zone from 18.25 ± 0.50 mm to 20.28 ± 1.50 mm) and Gram-positive (inhibition zone from 10.86 ± 0.85 mm to 17.00 ± 0.82 mm) bacteria. The chemical profile of the cyanobacterial extract was determined using LC–ESI–MS/MS analysis, where at least 112 putative compounds were detected. Many of these compounds have proven different biological activities. We speculated that compounds such as betulin and the macrolide azithromycin (or their analogues) could be responsible for the immunomodulatory potential of the investigated extract. More studies are needed to determine and validate the biological activities of the determined putative compounds.
RETRACTED: Laser Welding of UNS S33207 Hyper-Duplex Stainless Steel to 6061 Aluminum Alloy Using High Entropy Alloy as a Filler Material
Authors: Mohan Dhanesh , Tomków Jacek , Karganroudi Sasan
Published: March 2022

The high entropy alloy (HEA) filler used during the fabrication method determines the reliability of HEAs for steel-aluminum dissimilar alloy configuration. HEAs have a direct impact on the formation of intermetallic compounds (IMC) formed by the interaction of iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al), and influence the size of the joint’s interaction zone. A novel welding process for Fe-Al alloy joints was developed to prevent the development of a brittle iron-aluminum interface. This research involved investigation of the possibility of using HEA powdered filler. Fe5Co20Ni20Mn35Cu20 HEAs was used as a filler for the laser joining lap configuration joining hyper-duplex stainless steel UNS S33207 to aluminum alloy 6061. This HEA has unique properties, such as high strength, good ductility, and high resistance to corrosion and wear. A tiny portion of the stainless-steel area was melted by varying the welding parameters. The high-entropy alloy (HEA) with slow kinetic diffusion and large entropy was employed to aid in producing solid solution structures, impeding the blending of iron and aluminum particles and hindering the development of Fe-Al IMCs. The weld seam was created without the use of Fe-Al IMCs,. The specimen broke at the HEAs/Al alloy interface with a tensile-shear strength of 237 MPa. The tensile-shear strength achieved was 12.86% higher than for the base metal AA 6061 and 75.57% lower than for the UNS S33207 hyper-duplex stainless steel.
Asymmetric Force Effect and Damage Analysis of Unlooped Segment of Large-Diameter Shield under Synchronous Propulsion and Assembly Mode
Authors: Dai Zeyu , Li Peinan , Wang Xi , Liu Jun , Fan Jie , Kou Xiaoyong
Published: March 2022

This article outlines the merits of the proposed synchronous propulsion and assembly method in the construction of a long-distance tunnel. In traditional shield construction, the stress of the unlooped segment during the assembly process is systematically overlooked. However, in the novel tunnel construction method, the advancing force of the shield directly acts on the unlooped segment, so the safety of the unlooped segment is unknown. In this paper, focusing on the safety of the segment assembly process, the segment interactions and stress concentrations under asymmetric force effects are analysed in detail via a suite of finite element models. The results show that in the synchronous propulsion and assembly mode the segments will rotate inward. A clamping effect will gradually appear during the assembly process, which makes segment deflection decrease and the stress distribution more uniform. Under asymmetrical stress, the damage to longitudinal segments is highly correlated with the types of assembly errors. The damage position that is deflected radially inward will change with the deflection angle, and the outer joint of the segment is the largest. Based on the numerical outputs, guidelines for the application of synchronous propulsion and assembly technology in practical engineering are provided.
Deep Learning-Based Digital Image Forgery Detection System
Authors: Qazi Emad Ul Haq , Zia Tanveer , Almorjan Abdulrazaq
Published: March 2022

The advancements of technology in every aspect of the current age are leading to the misuse of data. Researchers, therefore, face the challenging task of identifying these manipulated forms of data and distinguishing the real data from the manipulated. Splicing is one of the most common techniques used for digital image tampering; a selected area copied from the same or another image is pasted in an image. Image forgery detection is considered a reliable way to verify the authenticity of digital images. In this study, we proposed an approach based on the state-of-the-art deep learning architecture of ResNet50v2. The proposed model takes image batches as input and utilizes the weights of a YOLO convolutional neural network (CNN) by using the architecture of ResNet50v2. In this study, we used the CASIA_v1 and CASIA_v2 benchmark datasets, which contain two distinct categories, original and forgery, to detect image splicing. We used 80% of the data for the training and the remaining 20% for testing purposes. We also performed a comparative analysis between existing approaches and our proposed system. We evaluated the performance of our technique with the CASIA_v1 and CASIA_v2 datasets. Since the CASIA_v2 dataset is more comprehensive compared to the CASIA_v1 dataset, we obtained 99.3% accuracy for the fine-tuned model using transfer learning and 81% accuracy without transfer learning with the CASIA_v2 dataset. The results show the superiority of the proposed system.
Development of Optimization Based Control Strategy for P2 Hybrid Electric Vehicle including Transient Characteristics of Engine
Authors: Yakhshilikova Gulnora , Ruzimov Sanjarbek , Ezemobi Ethelbert , Tonoli Andrea , Amati Nicola
Published: March 2022

Models based on steady-state maps estimate fuel consumption to be 2–8% lower than real experimental measured values. This is due to the fact that during transient phases, the engine consumes more fuel than in steady phases. Some literature has addressed the conventional vehicle engine model that improves fuel consumption estimation’s accuracy during the transient state. However, the characteristics of the engine in the scope of hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) with an integrated control strategy is yet to be covered. The controller is designed to minimize engine operation in the transient phase to enhance energy savings. In this paper, the correlation between fuel enrichment in transient and steady-state fuel estimation is established as transient correction factor (TCF). Its explanatory variable was the engine torque change rate. This paper describes the influence of engine transient characteristics on the fuel consumption of a mild HEV. The work attempts to improve the fuel economy of the HEV by introducing a penalty factor in the controller to optimize the use of the engine in transient regimes. A backward vehicle model was developed for a production vehicle with a conventional powertrain and validated experimentally using data available online. The corresponding hybrid vehicle model was developed by integrating the electric motor and battery components with the conventional vehicle model. A P2 off-axis configuration was chosen to this end as the HEV architecture. A conventional equivalent consumption minimization strategy (ECMS) was used to split the torque request between the engine and the electric motor. This control strategy was modified with TCF to penalize the engine torque change rate. The results of the simulation show that due to less transient operation of the engine, the fuel consumption was reduced from 923 g to 918 g under the US06 driving cycle. The fuel economy of the model has been simulated for UDDS and HW drive cycles too, and fuel consumption improved by 4.4 g and 3.2 g, respectively. It has been verified that by increasing the battery capacity twice (14s24p), the limitations imposed by the battery capacity can be minimized and the fuel usage can be reduced by 9 g in the UDDS cycle.
A Wideband Bear-Shaped Compact Size Implantable Antenna for In-Body Communications
Authors: Ahmad Sarosh , Manzoor Bilal , Paracha Kashif Nisar , Haider Sajjad , Liaqat Maryam , Al-Gburi Ahmed Jamal Abdullah , Ghaffar Adnan , Alibakhshikenari Mohammad , Dalarsson Mariana
Published: March 2022

Biomedical implantable antennas play a vital role in medical telemetry applications. These types of biomedical implantable devices are very helpful in improving and monitoring patients’ living situations on a daily basis. In the present paper, a miniaturized footprint, thin-profile bear-shaped in-body antenna operational at 915 MHz in the industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) band is proposed. The design is a straightforward bear-shaped truncated patch excited by a 50-Ω coaxial probe. The radiator is made up of two circular slots and one rectangular slot at the feet of the patch, and the ground plane is sotted to achieve a broadsided directional radiation pattern, imprinted on a Duroid RT5880 roger substrate with a typical 0.254-mm thickness ( ϵr = 2.2, tan δ = 0.0009). The stated antenna has a complete size of 7 mm × 7 mm × 0.254 mm and, in terms of guided wavelength, of 0.027λg × 0.027λg × 0.0011λg. When operating inside skin tissues, the antenna covers a measured bandwidth from 0.86 GHz to 1.08 GHz (220 MHz). The simulations and experimental outcomes of the stated design are in proper contract. The obtained results show that the calculated specific absorption rate (SAR) values inside skin of over 1 g of mass tissue is 8.22 W/kg. The stated SAR values are lower than the limitations of the federal communications commission (FCC). Thus, the proposed miniaturized antenna is an ultimate applicant for in-body communications.
Prospects of Geoinformatics in Analyzing Spatial Heterogeneities of Microstructural Properties of a Tectonic Fault
Authors: Ustinov Stepan , Ostapchuk Alexey , Svecherevskiy Alexey , Usachev Alexey , Gridin Grigorii , Grigor’eva Antonina , Nafigin Igor
Published: March 2022

The paper proposes a special technique for microstructural analysis (STMA) of rock samples based on two provisions. The first one is an algorithm for the automatic detection and digitalization of microstructures in images of oriented thin sections. The second one utilizes geographic information system (GIS) tools for an automatized analysis of objects at the micro scale. Using STMA allows the establishment of geometric features of fissure and pore space of rock samples to determine the parameters of stress–strain fields at different stages of rock massif deformation and to establish a relationship between microstructures and macrostructures. STMA makes it possible to evaluate the spatial heterogeneity of physical and structural properties of rocks at the micro scale. Verification of STMA was carried out using 15 rock samples collected across the core of the Primorsky Fault of the Baikal Rift Zone. Petrographic data were compared to the quantitative parameters of microfracture networks. The damage zone of the Primorsky Fault includes three clusters characterized by different porosity, permeability, and deformation type. Findings point to the efficiency of STMA in revealing the spatial heterogeneity of a tectonic fault.
Constructing Data-Driven Personas through an Analysis of Mobile Application Store Data
Authors: Park Daehee , Kang Jeannie
Published: March 2022

As smartphone segments have become more complex in recent times, the importance of personas for designing and marketing has increased. Earlier, designers focused on traditional qualitative personas but have been criticised for the lack of evidence and outdated results. However, although several methods of quantitative persona creation have been developed over the last few years, the use of mobile application store data has not yet been studied. In this research, we propose a framework using work domain analysis to help designers and marketers to build personas easily from mobile phone application store data. We considered the top 100 applications, which were ranked based on the number of devices using each application, how often each application was used, and the usage time. After proposing a new framework, we analysed data from a mobile application store in January and August 2020. We then created quantitative personas based on the data and discussed with experts whether the created personas successfully reflected real changes in mobile application trends.
Identification and Reconstruction of Impact Load for Lightweight Design of Production Equipment
Authors: Oh Jungwhan , Choi Sunghoon , Hwang Jiyoung , Yoon Jaekeun , Kang Haejung , Kim Dongchoul
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes a method for determining externally applied impact loads on complex structures using strain analysis. An impact load transducer was developed to determine impact loads. Using this transducer (which incorporates strain gauges), the relationship between the measured strains and applied impact load was studied, and a model for conversion from strain analysis to impact load was developed. The reconstructed impact curve that characterizes the impact peak force, impact duration, and load in the steady state after impact was employed as an input load curve in finite element analysis. The reconstructed impact load was validated by comparing the structural strain measured on the specimen in the experiments and the strain calculated by the simulations. The results show that the maximum difference between experimentally and numerically determined structural peak strains is 3.2 με. Moreover, the method was validated by predicting the impact load of a descending vehicle chassis on the production equipment in an automotive production line. It demonstrated high efficiency and accuracy. The reconstructed load curve obtained using the developed method provides high efficiency in addition to high accuracy. Furthermore, it circumvents the complexities of modeling dynamic impact simulation, including complex impactor shape, interface, and friction conditions. Thus, the developed method provides scholars with an efficient approach for an extensive study of the responses of complex structures in various fields such as stress strain analysis, fatigue analysis, and topology optimization for lightweight design of production equipment.
Optimization of Screw Mixer to Improve Drying Performance of Livestock Manure Dryer Using CFD Analysis
Authors: Park Gunyoung , Eom Taejin , Kwak Hyoseo , Kim Chul
Published: March 2022

Scarcity of fossil fuels and their emissions of fossil fuel pollutants, such as carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere, and the resulting consequences, have led energy policymakers to look for alternative renewable and clean energy sources. The use of animal wastes is one of the very promising renewable energy alternatives paving the way for a more sustainable energy network. Animal manure produced by livestock farms has a moisture content of about 80%, and such livestock manure is dehydrated to a moisture content of 20–25% and solidified to be used as biomass and fuel for thermal power plants. Previous studies on manure dryers have been concentrated on convection-type dryers, but this type of dryer has the disadvantage of inadequate processing capacity per hour because it cannot agitate manure. In this study, to deal with the drawbacks of conventional livestock manure drying methods, a screw-type dryer was proposed. CFD analysis of the dryer was performed by selecting the viscosity of livestock manure and design parameters of the screw using Ansys Workbench. Through the response surface method, optimal design of the screw shape for the improvement of drying efficiency and smooth discharge of residual manure was carried out.
Typhoon Resistance Analysis of Offshore Wind Turbines: A Review
Authors: Li Jiawen , Li Zhenni , Jiang Yichen , Tang Yougang
Published: March 2022

A typhoon is a tropical cyclone in the western Pacific Ocean and the China seas. Typhoons are some of the most destructive natural disasters on Earth. In China, typhoons have had major impacts on the stability and structural integrity of offshore wind turbines in the complex and harsh marine environment. In this research, first, the main causes of wind turbine damage were analyzed based on the characteristics of a typhoon and a wind turbine structure for typical typhoon-induced accidents. Second, the research progress of the anti-typhoon design of offshore wind turbines and the anti-typhoon strategy of wind farms operation and maintenance was summarized. Finally, the problems to be further solved in these research fields were presented to provide references for the development of offshore wind turbines, in particular, floating wind turbines in typhoon-prone areas.
A Model in Which the Separation Principle Holds for a Given Effective Projective Sigma-Class
Authors: Kanovei Vladimir , Lyubetsky Vassily
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we prove the following: If n≥3, there is a generic extension of L—the constructible universe—in which it is true that the Separation principle holds for both effective (lightface) classes Σn1 and Πn1 of sets of integers. The result was announced long ago by Leo Harrington with a sketch of the proof for n=3; its full proof has never been presented. Our methods are based on a countable product of almost-disjoint forcing notions independent in the sense of Jensen–Solovay.
Modeling the Impact of the Imperfect Vaccination of the COVID-19 with Optimal Containment Strategy
Authors: Benahmadi Lahbib , Lhous Mustapha , Tridane Abdessamad , Zakary Omar , Rachik Mostafa
Published: March 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination has been the main strategy to contain the spread of the coronavirus. However, with the administration of many types of vaccines and the constant mutation of viruses, the issue of how effective these vaccines are in protecting the population is raised. This work aimed to present a mathematical model that investigates the imperfect vaccine and finds the additional measures needed to help reduce the burden of disease. We determine the R0 threshold of disease spread and use stability analysis to determine the condition that will result in disease eradication. We also fitted our model to COVID-19 data from Morocco to estimate the parameters of the model. The sensitivity analysis of the basic reproduction number, with respect to the parameters of the model, is simulated for the four possible scenarios of the disease progress. Finally, we investigate the optimal containment measures that could be implemented with vaccination. To illustrate our results, we perform the numerical simulations of optimal control.
Genomic Variations and Mutational Events Associated with Plant–Pathogen Interactions
Authors: Dolatabadian Aria , Fernando Wannakuwattewaduge Gerard Dilantha
Published: March 2022

Phytopathologists are actively researching the molecular basis of plant–pathogen interactions. The mechanisms of responses to pathogens have been studied extensively in model crop plant species and natural populations. Today, with the rapid expansion of genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, as well as the development of new methods and protocols, data analysis, and bioinformatics, it is now possible to assess the role of genetic variation in plant–microbe interactions and to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms of plant defense and microbe pathogenicity with ever-greater resolution and accuracy. Genetic variation is an important force in evolution that enables organisms to survive in stressful environments. Moreover, understanding the role of genetic variation and mutational events is essential for crop breeders to produce improved cultivars. This review focuses on genetic variations and mutational events associated with plant–pathogen interactions and discusses how these genome compartments enhance plants’ and pathogens’ evolutionary processes.
Prevalence of Positive Effects on Body Fat Percentage, Cardiovascular Parameters, and Cardiorespiratory Fitness after 10-Week High-Intensity Interval Training in Adolescents
Authors: Domaradzki Jarosław , Koźlenia Dawid , Popowczak Marek
Published: March 2022

Analysis of the interventions on cardiovascular disease risk factors focuses on quantitative changes, omitting assessment of positive effect frequency in individuals. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of positive effects of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on body composition, cardiovascular parameters, and cardiorespiratory fitness among adolescents. A total of 52 boys and 89 girls from a secondary school were separated into an experimental group (EG) with HIIT and a control group (CG). Body fat % (BFP), resting systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and fitness index (FI) changes were calculated. We assessed the influence and interaction of three factors: intervention (INT), sex (SEX), and body mass index (BMIstatus) on the ratio of individuals with and without positive changes. We used log-linear models for interactions and multivariate correspondence analysis (MCA). The results indicate that HIIT affects the prevalence of positive changes in SBP, DBP, and FI. Interactions between factors suggest boys with low BMI get more benefit from the intervention than girls. The MCA indicates a relationship between FI and BFP and between BP parameters. The effectiveness of HIIT was confirmed concerning the prevalence of the positive changes in measured parameters. We suggest that HIIT should be implemented in PE lessons, although there is a need to look for a more efficient method for girls.
Ketamine Improves Desensitization of µ-Opioid Receptors Induced by Repeated Treatment with Fentanyl but Not with Morphine
Authors: Mizobuchi Yusuke , Miyano Kanako , Manabe Sei , Uezono Eiko , Komatsu Akane , Kuroda Yui , Nonaka Miki , Matsuoka Yoshikazu , Sato Tetsufumi , Uezono Yasuhito , Morimatsu Hiroshi
Published: March 2022

The issue of tolerance to continuous or repeated administration of opioids should be addressed. The ability of ketamine to improve opioid tolerance has been reported in clinical studies, and its mechanism of tolerance may involve improved desensitization of μ-opioid receptors (MORs). We measured changes in MOR activity and intracellular signaling induced by repeated fentanyl and morphine administration and investigated the effects of ketamine on these changes with human embryonic kidney 293 cells expressing MOR using the CellKey™, cADDis cyclic adenosine monophosphate, and PathHunter® β-arrestin recruitment assays. Repeated administration of fentanyl or morphine suppressed the second MOR responses. Administration of ketamine before a second application of opioids within clinical concentrations improved acute desensitization and enhanced β-arrestin recruitment elicited by fentanyl but not by morphine. The effects of ketamine on fentanyl were suppressed by co-treatment with an inhibitor of G-protein-coupled receptor kinase (GRK). Ketamine may potentially reduce fentanyl tolerance but not that of morphine through modulation of GRK-mediated pathways, possibly changing the conformational changes of β-arrestin to MOR.
Nuclear-Mitochondrial Interactions
Authors: Walker Brittni R. , Moraes Carlos T.
Published: March 2022

Mitochondria, the cell’s major energy producers, also act as signaling hubs, interacting with other organelles both directly and indirectly. Despite having its own circular genome, the majority of mitochondrial proteins are encoded by nuclear DNA. To respond to changes in cell physiology, the mitochondria must send signals to the nucleus, which can, in turn, upregulate gene expression to alter metabolism or initiate a stress response. This is known as retrograde signaling. A variety of stimuli and pathways fall under the retrograde signaling umbrella. Mitochondrial dysfunction has already been shown to have severe implications for human health. Disruption of retrograde signaling, whether directly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction or cellular environmental changes, may also contribute to pathological deficits. In this review, we discuss known signaling pathways between the mitochondria and the nucleus, examine the possibility of direct contacts, and identify pathological consequences of an altered relationship.
The Mechanisms of Restenosis and Relevance to Next Generation Stent Design
Authors: Clare Jessie , Ganly Justin , Bursill Christina A. , Sumer Huseyin , Kingshott Peter , de Haan Judy B.
Published: March 2022

Stents are lifesaving mechanical devices that re-establish essential blood flow to the coronary circulation after significant vessel occlusion due to coronary vessel disease or thrombolytic blockade. Improvements in stent surface engineering over the last 20 years have seen significant reductions in complications arising due to restenosis and thrombosis. However, under certain conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM), the incidence of stent-mediated complications remains 2–4-fold higher than seen in non-diabetic patients. The stents with the largest market share are designed to target the mechanisms behind neointimal hyperplasia (NIH) through anti-proliferative drugs that prevent the formation of a neointima by halting the cell cycle of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Thrombosis is treated through dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT), which is the continual use of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor for 6–12 months. While the most common stents currently in use are reasonably effective at treating these complications, there is still significant room for improvement. Recently, inflammation and redox stress have been identified as major contributing factors that increase the risk of stent-related complications following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The aim of this review is to examine the mechanisms behind inflammation and redox stress through the lens of PCI and its complications and to establish whether tailored targeting of these key mechanistic pathways offers improved outcomes for patients, particularly those where stent placement remains vulnerable to complications. In summary, our review highlights the most recent and promising research being undertaken in understanding the mechanisms of redox biology and inflammation in the context of stent design. We emphasize the benefits of a targeted mechanistic approach to decrease all-cause mortality, even in patients with diabetes.