bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Precise Fertilization through Adoption of Management Zones Strategy to Enhance Wheat Production
Authors: Haroon Zainab , Cheema Muhammad Jehanzeb Masud , Saleem Shoaib , Amin Muhammad , Anjum Muhammad Naveed , Tahir Muhammad Naveed , Hussain Saddam , Zahid Usama , Khan Faiza
Published: February 2023

The variability in soil properties and crop yield can be overcome by adoption of smart farming practices through interpolation and mapping of spatial variability patterns. Geospatial technologies can be utilized to determine the cause of spatial variability in fields for site-specific application of fertilizer. This study was designed to quantify and identify the spatial variation in soil properties and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) yield and to delineate prescription maps for precise application of fertilizer in a semi-arid subtropical region of Pakistan. To examine the variability in soil properties on the production of the considered crop, this study comprised two different fields and each field was divided into (20 × 20 m) grids. The samples of soil were collected at 15 cm and 30 cm soil depths before the fertilization to analyze the different soil characteristics i.e., nitrogen (N), electrical conductivity (EC), potassium (K), soil organic matter (SOM), phosphorus (P), and pH. The boundaries of selected fields and grid points were established with a real-time kinematics-global positioning system (RTK-GPS). The soil data were acquired with a soil proximal sensor at a depth of 7 cm after fertilization. The statistical analysis coefficient of variation (CV), geostatistical-analysis-nugget-to-sill ratio (N:S), and the interpolated maps (ArcGIS pro 2.3) were used to characterize the least to moderate variability of soil parameters and yield, demanding site-specific management of fertilizer application. Cluster analysis was conducted using Minitab 21, which classified soil and yield characteristics into five categories: “very good”, “very low”, “good”, “poor”, and “medium”, with an external heterogeneity and internal homogeneity both more than 60%. Significant relationships (p < 0.05) between soil and crop properties were used to develop the management zones (MZs) for the precise application of fertilizer in wheat fields. Significant differences (p < 0.05) in soil nutrients were found in the very high and very low productivity zones at both sampling times, which suggest delineating the MZs for precise application of fertilizer according to the need of crop and soil properties. The results revealed that the optimum number of MZs for the wheat fields was five and there was heterogeneity in the soil nutrients in five MZs. The findings of this study also highlight the necessity of predicting the crop and soil factors by using precision technologies to develop the prescription maps, because sampling and analysis of soil are expensive and time-consuming. Based on the demand of the soil and crops, site-specific fertilization can increase economic and environmental efficiency.
The Role of Mu Opioid Receptors in High Fat Diet-Induced Reward and Potentiation of the Rewarding Effect of Oxycodone
Authors: Iqbal Asif , Hamid Abdul , Ahmad Syed Muzzammil , Lutfy Kabirullah
Published: February 2023

Excessive high fat diet (HFD) consumption can induce food addiction, which is believed to involve the communication between the hypothalamus and mesolimbic dopaminergic neurons, originating in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and projecting to the nucleus accumbens (NAc). These brain areas are densely populated with opioid receptors, raising the possibility that these receptors, and particularly mu opioid receptors (MORs), are involved in rewards elicited by palatable food. This study sought to investigate the involvement of MORs in HFD-induced reward and if there is any difference between male and female subjects in this response. We also assessed if exposure to HFD would alter the rewarding action of oxycodone, a relatively selective MOR agonist. The place conditioning paradigm was used as an animal model of reward to determine if short-time (STC, 2 h) or long-time (LTC, 16 h) conditioning with HFD induces reward or alters the rewarding action of oxycodone. Male and female C57BL/6J mice as well as MOR knockout and their wildtype littermates of both sexes were tested for basal place preference on day 1 and then conditioned with an HFD in one chamber and a regular chow diet (RCD) in another chamber for 2 h on alternate days. Three sets of STC were used, followed by a set of LTC. Each set of conditioning consisted of two conditioning with RCD and two conditioning with HFD. Mice were tested for place preference after each set of STC and again after LTC. Controls were conditioned with RCD in both conditioning chambers. Following the last place preference test, mice were treated with oxycodone and conditioned in the HFD-paired chamber and with saline in the RCD-paired chamber for one hour once a day to explore the possibility if the HFD could alter oxycodone reward. The result showed that HFD induced conditioned place preference (CPP) in male but not female subjects. However, oxycodone conditioning elicited reward in both male and female mice of the HFD group but not the control group, showing that prior conditioning with HFD potentiated the rewarding action of oxycodone. The latter response was mediated via MORs, as it was blunted in MOR knockout mice. Similarly, HFD-induced CPP was blunted in male MOR knockout mice, suggesting sexual dimorphism in this response.
An ADRC Parameters Self-Tuning Controller Based on RBF Neural Network for Multi-Color Register System
Authors: Ding Haodi , Liu Shanhui , Wang Zhenwei , Zhang Han , Wang Chaoyue
Published: February 2023

To improve the control precision of the nonlinear register system for flexographic printing, a feedforward active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) parameter self-tuning decoupling control strategy based on radial basis function (RBF) is proposed to address the existence of coupling interference and multiple working conditions. Firstly, according to the structure of the flexographic printing equipment system and registration principle, a nonlinear mathematical model of the global registration system is established and linearized using the small deviation method. Secondly, the decoupled controller of the register system is designed by integrating feedforward control, ADRC, and RBF, in which the feedforward control is used to eliminate the registration errors caused by modeled disturbances, the ADRC performs the estimation and compensation of unmodeled disturbances, and the RBF realizes the self-tuning of the ADRC controller parameters. Finally, different operating conditions are simulated to compare and verify the control performance of the proposed controller. Simulation results show that the designed controller has a better performance compared to traditional PID and ADRC control, and its register error peak is reduced by about 32% compared to ADRC, achieving the high accuracy control of a multi-color register system.
DLP of Translucent Alumina: In-Depth Investigation on Slurry Development and Debinding Regimes
Authors: De Lisi Michele , Shu Chang , Attia Usama M. , Essa Khamis
Published: February 2023

Exploring the feasibility of producing near-net-shape components with advanced properties and geometrical features via 3D printing has incrementally become the research focus of various studies. Digital light processing (DLP) technology can manufacture complex-structured components for various technical applications. The aims of this research were to investigate Al2O3 ceramic slurry preparation procedures to identify the ideal components to add to an in-house-developed ceramic slurry, to determine the optimal DLP printing parameters and conditions while understanding their effect on the green part properties and to evaluate the appropriate debinding regime to achieve fully dense crack-free fired parts capable of exhibiting translucent behaviours. The slurry obtained from the ball-milled powder at 800 rpm for 1 h, together with 2 wt.% BYK-145 as a dispersant and the highest achievable solid loading of 85 wt.%, showed the desired rheological and photopolymerisation properties. Full-factorial design of experiments (DOE) was employed to study the impact of the printing parameters on the density and the dimensions of the samples. Different debinding regimes were investigated and it was proven that the lowest debinding heat rate (0.2 °C/min) and longer holding times helped to reduce defects and promote densification (>99.0%), providing optimal grounds to obtain translucent fired parts.
Balanced K-Star: An Explainable Machine Learning Method for Internet-of-Things-Enabled Predictive Maintenance in Manufacturing
Authors: Ghasemkhani Bita , Aktas Ozlem , Birant Derya
Published: February 2023

Predictive maintenance (PdM) combines the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies with machine learning (ML) to predict probable failures, which leads to the necessity of maintenance for manufacturing equipment, providing the opportunity to solve the related problems and thus make adaptive decisions in a timely manner. However, a standard ML algorithm cannot be directly applied to a PdM dataset, which is highly imbalanced since, in most cases, signals correspond to normal rather than critical conditions. To deal with data imbalance, in this paper, a novel explainable ML method entitled “Balanced K-Star” based on the K-Star classification algorithm is proposed for PdM in an IoT-based manufacturing environment. Experiments conducted on a PdM dataset showed that the proposed Balanced K-Star method outperformed the standard K-Star method in terms of classification accuracy. The results also showed that the proposed method (98.75%) achieved higher accuracy than the state-of-the-art methods (91.74%) on the same data.
An Online Non-Invasive Condition Assessment Method of Outdoor High-Voltage SF6 Circuit Breaker
Authors: Da Silva Clailton Leopoldo , Reis Osmar , Assuncao Frederico de Oliveira , Oliveira Castioni Julio Cezar , Martins Rafael , Xavier Carlos Eduardo , Areias Isac Antonio dos-Santos , Lambert-Torres Germano , Bonaldi Erik Leandro , Borges-da-Silva Luiz Eduardo , Oliveira Levy Ely Lacerda
Published: February 2023

Online monitoring of outdoor high voltage SF6 circuit breakers (HVCBs) is essential to detecting potential damages. To this end, the study of accurate and non-invasive monitoring methods has been significantly investigated in recent decades. Considering that HVCB vibration patterns carry important information about mechanical and electrical integrity and that vibration analysis requires a low level of invasiveness, this article presents methods of obtaining mechanism and reaction times using interference signals of outdoor high voltage SF6 circuit breakers (HVCBs). Compared to traditional methods of monitoring outdoor SF6 circuit breakers that are based on encoders, the proposed method presented ease of installation, as it only requires the insertion of accelerometers. The method of obtaining the mechanism time is based on the use of interference and auxiliary contact signals, in the time domain, where the accelerometer is installed, in the structure of the HVCB, makes it possible to guarantee the moment of the trip command. To obtain the reaction time of each HVCB pole, the envelope technique was applied with the Hilbert transform module of the hearing signal, filtered in a certain resonance band. The proof of the technique of analyzing the vibration of the signal in time was developed with laboratory tests of an HVCB, instrumented with accelerometers and angular encoders. The results obtained via vibration analysis were compared with those obtained via angular encoders and it was concluded that with the acceleration signals, in time, it is possible to obtain performance parameters of an HVCB from its displacement curve. Finally, the online monitoring of the circuit breaker applied in the field is presented, where the acquisition of trip current signals, the condition of the SF6 gas and extinguishing current signals were added to the instrumentation.
A Comprehensive Study on the Styrene–GTR Radical Graft Polymerization: Combination of an Experimental Approach, on Different Scales, with Machine Learning Modeling
Authors: Trinh Cindy , Hoppe Sandrine , Lainé Richard , Meimaroglou Dimitrios
Published: February 2023

The study of the styrene–Ground Tire Rubber (GTR) graft radical polymerization is particularly challenging due to the complexity of the underlying kinetic mechanisms and nature of GTR. In this work, an experimental study on two scales (∼10 mL and ∼100 mL) and a machine learning (ML) modeling approach are combined to establish a quantitative relationship between operating conditions and styrene conversion. The two-scale experimental approach enables to verify the impact of upscaling on thermal and mixing effects that are particularly important in this heterogeneous system, as also evidenced in previous works. The adopted experimental setups are designed in view of multiple data production, while paying specific attention in data reliability by eliminating the uncertainty related to sampling for analyses. At the same time, all the potential sources of uncertainty, such as the mass loss along the different steps of the process and the precision of the experimental equipment, are also carefully identified and monitored. The experimental results on both scales validate previously observed effects of GTR, benzoyl peroxide initiator and temperature on styrene conversion but, at the same time, reveal the need of an efficient design of the experimental procedure in terms of mixing and of monitoring uncertainties. Subsequently, the most reliable experimental data (i.e., 69 data from the 10 mL system) are used for the screening of a series of diverse supervised-learning regression ML models and the optimization of the hyperparameters of the best-performing ones. These are gradient boosting, multilayer perceptrons and random forest with, respectively, a test R2 of 0.91 ± 0.04, 0.90 ± 0.04 and 0.89 ± 0.05. Finally, the effect of additional parameters, such as the scaling method, the number of folds and the random partitioning of data in the train/test splits, as well as the integration of the experimental uncertainties in the learning procedure, are exploited as means to improve the performance of the developed models.
An Intelligent Recommendation System for Automating Academic Advising Based on Curriculum Analysis and Performance Modeling
Authors: Atalla Shadi , Daradkeh Mohammad , Gawanmeh Amjad , Khalil Hatim , Mansoor Wathiq , Miniaoui Sami , Himeur Yassine
Published: February 2023

The explosive increase in educational data and information systems has led to new teaching practices, challenges, and learning processes. To effectively manage and analyze this information, it is crucial to adopt innovative methodologies and techniques. Recommender systems (RSs) offer a solution for advising students and guiding their learning journeys by utilizing statistical methods such as machine learning (ML) and graph analysis to analyze program and student data. This paper introduces an RS for advisors and students that analyzes student records to develop personalized study plans over multiple semesters. The proposed system integrates ideas from graph theory, performance modeling, ML, explainable recommendations, and an intuitive user interface. The system implicitly implements many academic rules through network analysis. Accordingly, a systematic and comprehensive review of different students’ plans was possible using metrics developed in the mathematical graph theory. The proposed system systematically assesses and measures the relevance of a particular student’s study plan. Experiments on datasets collected at the University of Dubai show that the model presented in this study outperforms similar ML-based solutions in terms of different metrics. Typically, up to 86% accuracy and recall have been achieved. Additionally, the lowest mean square regression (MSR) rate of 0.14 has been attained compared to other state-of-the-art regressors.
On Recovery of the Singular Differential Laplace—Bessel Operator from the Fourier–Bessel Transform
Authors: Sitnik Sergey M. , Fedorov Vladimir E. , Polovinkina Marina V. , Polovinkin Igor P.
Published: February 2023

This paper is devoted to the problem of the best recovery of a fractional power of the B-elliptic operator of a function on R+N by its Fourier–Bessel transform known approximately on a convex set with the estimate of the difference between Fourier–Bessel transform of the function and its approximation in the metric L∞. The optimal recovery method has been found. This method does not use the Fourier–Bessel transform values beyond a ball centered at the origin.
Ordinary Kriging Interpolation Method Combined with FEM for Arch Dam Deformation Field Estimation
Authors: Shao Chenfei , Xu Yanxin , Chen Huixiang , Zheng Sen , Qin Xiangnan
Published: February 2023

The deformation characteristic of the arch dam can directly reflect its service performance, which can be analyzed on the basis of the dam deformation field. However, restricted by the limited number of dam monitoring points and the inhomogeneity of materials, an accurate measurement of arch dam deformation field is difficult to estimate by using the existing common methods, such as the spatial interpolation methods and the finite element method (FEM). With the aim of ensuring arch dam structure safety, the ordinary kriging interpolation method, combined with FEM, is proposed for arch dam deformation field estimation, in this study. Given the inversion of the computation parameters of the arch dam, FEM is used to calculate the basic arch dam deformation. Subsequently, the ordinary kriging interpolation method is introduced to estimate the spatial variance deformation at each point of the arch dam. One superhigh arch dam in China is selected as a case study; two additional methods are introduced as comparisons that are based on a numerical experiment and the actual monitoring data. The experimental results show that the proposed method considerably improves the accuracy and computational efficiency of the arch dam deformation field estimation and that it is of great practical importance for characterizing the deformation behavior of arch dams.
Approaches That Use Domain-Specific Expertise: Behavioral-Cloning-Based Advantage Actor-Critic in Basketball Games
Authors: Choi Taehyeok , Cho Kyungeun , Sung Yunsick
Published: February 2023

Research on the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in games has recently gained momentum. Most commercial games still use AI based on a finite state machine (FSM) due to complexity and cost considerations. However, FSM-based AI decreases user satisfaction given that it performs the same patterns of consecutive actions in the same situations. This necessitates a new AI approach that applies domain-specific expertise to existing reinforcement learning algorithms. We propose a behavioral-cloning-based advantage actor-critic (A2C) that improves learning performance by applying a behavioral cloning algorithm to an A2C algorithm in basketball games. The state normalization, reward function, and episode classification approaches are used with the behavioral-cloning-based A2C. The results of the comparative experiments with the traditional A2C algorithms validated the proposed method. Our proposed method using existing approaches solved the difficulty of learning in basketball games.
Non-Fragile Fuzzy Tracking Control for Nonlinear Networked Systems with Dynamic Quantization and Randomly Occurring Gain Variations
Authors: Li Zhimin , Lu Chengming , Wang Hongyu
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the observer-based non-fragile output feedback tracking control problem for nonlinear networked systems with randomly occurring gain variations. The considered nonlinear networked systems are represented by a Takagi–Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy model. The dynamical quantization methodology is employed to achieve the reasonable and efficacious utilization of the limited communication resources. The objective is to design the observer-based non-fragile output feedback tracking controller, such that the resulting system is mean-square asymptotically stable with the given H∞ tracking performance. Based on the descriptor representation strategy combined with the S-procedure, sufficient conditions for the existence of the desired dynamic quantizers and observer-based non-fragile tracking controller are proposed in the form of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed design method
New Versions of Some Results on Fixed Points in b-Metric Spaces
Authors: Mitrović Zoran D. , Bodaghi Abasalt , Aloqaily Ahmad , Mlaiki Nabil , George Reny
Published: February 2023

The main and the most important objective of this paper is to nominate some new versions of several well-known results about fixed-point theorems such as Caristi’s theorem, Pant et al.’s theorem and Karapınar et al.’s theorem in the case of b-metric spaces. We use a new technique provided by Miculescu and Mihail in order to prove our theorems. Some illustrative applications and examples are given to strengthen our new findings and the main results.
Efficacy of Smear Layer Removal at the Apical One-Third of the Root Using Different Protocols of Erbium-Doped Yttrium Aluminium Garnet (Er:YAG) Laser
Authors: Habshi Amel Yousif , Aga Nausheen , Habshi Khadija Yousif , Hassan Muna Eisa Mohamed , Choudhry Ziaullah , Ahmed Muhammad Adeel , Syed Azeem Ul Yaqin , Jouhar Rizwan
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Smear layer forms during cleaning and shaping can obstruct the entry of both irrigant and sealant into the dentinal tubules, resulting in the accumulation of the bacteria and their byproducts. To ensure effective adhesion and better periapical healing, it is strongly advised to remove the smear layer before proceeding with root canal obturation. This study was designed to compare the efficiency of laser-activated irrigation (LAI) in removing the smear layer and debriding the most apical third of the root canal. Materials and Methods: Sixty-five extracted human teeth with straight single roots were randomly and equally divided into four laser and one control groups. Root canals in all samples were shaped using prime size TruNatomy rotary files. During preparation, each canal was irrigated with 3 mL of 3% NaOCl and 3 mL of 17% EDTA alternately, followed by the irrigation with 10 mL of distilled water to avoid the prolonged effect of EDTA and NaOCl solutions. Final irrigation of 5 mL of 17% EDTA of the root canal was done to eliminate the smear layer and was subsequently activated by an endodontic ultrasonic tip for 20 s three times (control group), a flat-end laser tip (test groups 1 and 3) or a taper-end laser tip (test groups 2 and 4) for two cycles. The time of each cycle activation was 10 s (groups 1 and 2) or 20 s (groups 3 and 4) in which the Er:YAG laser of 2940 nm was used. The laser operating parameters were 15 Hz and 50 μs pulse duration. The samples were then split longitudinally and subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: The remaining smear layer at the apical part of the root canals was statistically significant between the control group and the laser groups 1 (p = 0.040) and 2 (p = 0.000). Within the laser groups, the exposed tubules count was greater in the laser with the flat tip as compared with the tapered tip (Laser 1 > Laser 2 and Laser 3 > Laser 4). Finally, no significant differences in the count of debris between the laser groups and control group were observed, except for laser 4 (p < 0.05), which had the highest count of debris. Conclusion: LAI to remove debris and smear layer at the apical third of the root canal is inferior to the current ultrasonic technique. However, when using the Er:YAG LAI, it is recommended to use a flat tip design for 10 s for two cycles to ensure maximum debridement of the apical dentin surface.
Combined Midportion Achilles and Plantaris Tendinopathy: A 1-Year Follow-Up Study after Ultrasound and Color-Doppler-Guided WALANT Surgery in a Private Setting in Southern Sweden
Authors: Alfredson Håkan , Waldén Markus , Roberts David , Spang Christoph
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Chronic painful midportion Achilles combined with plantaris tendinopathy can be a troublesome condition to treat. The objective was to prospectively follow patients subjected to ultrasound (US)- and color doppler (CD)-guided wide awake, local anesthetic, no-tourniquet (WALANT) surgery in a private setting. Material and Methods: Twenty-six Swedish patients (17 men and 9 women, mean age 50 years (range 29–62)) and eight international male patients (mean age of 38 years (range 25–71)) with combined midportion Achilles and plantaris tendinopathy in 45 tendons altogether were included. All patients had had >6 months of pain and had tried non-surgical treatment with eccentric training, without effect. US + CD-guided surgical scraping of the ventral Achilles tendon and plantaris removal under local anesthesia was performed on all patients. A 4–6-week rehabilitation protocol with an immediate full-weight-bearing tendon loading regime was used. The VISA-A score and a study-specific questionnaire evaluating physical activity level and subjective satisfaction with the treatment were used for evaluation. Results: At the 1-year follow-up, 32/34 patients (43 tendons) were satisfied with the treatment result and had returned to their pre-injury Achilles tendon loading activity. There were two dropouts (two tendons). For the Swedish patients, the mean VISA-A score increased from 34 (0–64) before surgery to 93 (61–100) after surgery (p < 0.001). There were two complications, one wound rupture and one superficial skin infection. Conclusions: For patients suffering from painful midportion Achilles tendinopathy and plantaris tendinopathy, US + CD-guided surgical Achilles tendon scraping and plantaris tendon removal showed a high satisfaction rate and good functional results 1 year after surgery.
Profile of Newly Diagnosed Patients with HIV Infection in North-Eastern Romania
Authors: Loghin Isabela Ioana , Vâţă Andrei , Mihai Ioana Florina , Silvaş George , Rusu Şerban Alin , Luca Cătălina Mihaela , Dorobăţ Carmen Mihaela
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives: Human immunodeficiency virus infection and the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) pandemic are unquestionably the most serious public crisis of our time. Identifying, preventing, and treating HIV-associated comorbidities remains a challenge that must be addressed even in the era of antiretroviral therapy. Materials and Methods: In this study, we aimed to characterize the aspects of newly diagnosed patients with HIV/AIDS, during 2021–2022 in Northeastern Romania. We reviewed the frequency and associated comorbidities of these patients in correspondence with national and global results. Results: Our study found that of all newly diagnosed HIV cases (167 cases—74 cases in 2021 and 98 cases in 2022), 49.70% were diagnosed with HIV infection and 50.30% had AIDS. Based on sex correlated with the CD4+ T-lymphocyte level, the most affected were males, with a lower CD4+ T-lymphocyte level overall. The average HIV viral load was 944,689.55 copies/mL. Half of males had an abnormal ALT or AST (39.53% and 49.61%); as for the females, less than a quarter had an increased value of ALT or AST, respectively (18% and 26%). The most frequent co-infections were as follows: oral candidiasis (34.73% of patients), hepatitis B (17.37% of patients), and SARS-CoV-2 infection (8.38%), followed by hepatitis C (6.39%), tuberculosis (TB), syphilis, toxoplasmosis, Cryptococcus, Cytomegalovirus infections. Males were more affected than females, with a higher percentage of co-infections. The prescribed antiretroviral treatment focused on a single-pill regimen (79.04%) to ensure adherence, effectiveness, and safety. Therefore, 20.96% had been prescribed a regimen according to their comorbidities. Conclusions: Our study found a concerning rise in the incidence of HIV in 2022 compared to that in 2021 in Northeastern Romania, because of the rise in post-SARS-CoV-2 pandemic addressability. Advanced immunodeficiency and the burden of opportunistic infections characterize newly diagnosed HIV patients. The physicians should keep in mind that these patients may have more than one clinical condition at presentation.
Influence of Operating and Electrochemical Parameters on PEMFC Performance: A Simulation Study
Authors: Soomro Imtiaz Ali , Memon Fida Hussain , Mughal Waqas , Khan Muhammad Ali , Ali Wajid , Liu Yong , Choi Kyung Hyun , Thebo Khalid Hussain
Published: February 2023

Proton exchange membrane fuel cell, or polymer electrolyte fuel cell, (PEMFC) has received a significant amount of attention for green energy applications due to its low carbon emission and less other toxic pollution capacity. Herein, we develop a three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamic model. The values of temperature, pressure, relative humidity, exchange coefficient, reference current density (RCD), and porosity values of the gas diffusion layer (GDL) were taken from the published literature. The results demonstrate that the performance of the cell is improved by modifying temperature and operating pressure. Current density is shown to degrade with the rising temperature as explored in this study. The findings show that at 353 K, the current density decreases by 28% compared to that at 323 K. In contrast, studies have shown that totally humidified gas passing through the gas channel results in a 10% higher current density yield, and that an evaluation of a 19% higher RCD value results in a similar current density yield.
Modification of Rare Earth Ce on Inclusions in W350 Non-Oriented Silicon Steel
Authors: Wang Haijun , Niu Yuhao , Ling Haitao , Qiao Jialong , Zhang Yanling , Zhong Wei , Qiu Shengtao
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the effect of rare earth Ce content on the morphology, composition, type and size distribution of inclusions in W350 non-oriented silicon steel was investigated by means of ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry), SEM/EDS (scanning electron microscope-energy Dispersive Spectrometer), and ASPEX (automated SEM/EDS inclusion analysis). The results showed that with the increase of Ce content in the steel, the modification sequence of inclusions was CeAlO3→Ce2O2S→CexSy. The type and size distribution of inclusions in the steel obviously changed with the difference in added Ce content. When the added Ce content in the steel was 10 ppm, 14 ppm, 20 ppm and 30 ppm respectively, the rare earth inclusions were mainly CeAlO3-Ce2O2S. Furthermore, when the added Ce content increased to 60 ppm, the rare earth inclusions were mainly Ce2O2S with a small amount of CeAlO3 contained in part inclusions. When the added Ce content increased continually to 95 ppm, the rare earth inclusions were mainly CexSy-Ce2O2S. The critical Ce content for the conversion between CeAlO3 and Ce2O2S was 41 ppm. To ensure that inclusions transform from CeAlO3 to Ce2O2S, the Ce content in the steel should be greater than 41 ppm. Under the current experimental conditions, it was found that when the Ce content was 20 ppm, the number density and proportion of inclusions in the steel were lower, and their average size was larger. When the added Ce content increased to 95 ppm, the number density of inclusions in the steel significantly increased, which deteriorated the steel cleanliness.
Characterization of Iron Aluminide Diffusion Coatings Obtained after Friction Surfacing
Authors: Martins Norberto , Silva Ana Paula , Cordeiro da Silva Gilmar , dos Santos Ítalo Bruno , Santos Carlos Eduardo dos , Troysi Fernanda , Brito Pedro
Published: February 2023

Iron aluminides are considered as candidate materials for high temperature applications for their excellent high temperature corrosion and oxidation resistance. In the present work, iron-aluminide coatings were developed by friction surfacing (6351 aluminum alloy deposited on a low-carbon steel substrate) followed by a diffusion heat treatment. The initial coatings were found to be geometrically homogenous and adhered well to the steel substrate. The heat treatment process was carried out at 550 °C for 48, 72 and 96 h and the resulting coatings were characterized in terms of microstructure, chemical composition, hardness distribution and phase composition. After heat treatment, the coating/substrate interface morphology was modified and presented patterns typical of Fe-Al intermetallic formation, as well as a substantial increase in hardness (>900 HV) relative to the initial as-deposited condition. With the diffusion treatment, initially Fe2Al5 was found to develop in the coatings, which was converted into FeAl2 after longer exposures.
Role of Insulin Resistance as a Mediator of the Relationship between Body Weight, Waist Circumference, and Systolic Blood Pressure in a Pediatric Population
Authors: Genovesi Simonetta , Montelisciani Laura , Giussani Marco , Lieti Giulia , Patti Ilenia , Orlando Antonina , Antolini Laura , Parati Gianfranco
Published: February 2023

Excess weight and high waist circumference (WC) are associated with increased blood pressure (BP), starting from the pediatric age. Insulin resistance is associated with elevated BP in childhood. The aim of the study was to assess the role of insulin resistance in mediating the relationship between body mass index (BMI), WC, and BP values in a pediatric population referred to a cardio-pediatric center for the presence of one or more cardiovascular risk factors. In 419 children (mean age 10.7 [standard deviation, SD 2.5] years), the following parameters were collected both in basal conditions and after 18.6 (SD 9.3) months of follow-up during which a treatment based on lifestyle and dietary modifications was given: systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP), WC, plasma glucose, and insulin values. The HOMA (Homeostasis Model Assessment)-index was considered as an expression of insulin resistance. At baseline there was a significant correlation between HOMA-index and SBP z-score (β = 0.081, p = 0.003), and insulin resistance was a mediator of the relationship between BMI and SBP z-score (p = 0.015), and between waist circumference to height (WtHr) and SBP z-score (p = 0.008). The effect of BMI z-score modifications on SBP z-score changes from baseline to follow-up was totally mediated by HOMA-index changes (p = 0.008), while HOMA-index only partially mediated the effect of WtHr modifications on SBP z-score changes (p = 0.060). Our study strongly suggests that, in a pediatric population at cardiovascular risk, the HOMA-index is an important mediator of the relationship between BMI, WC and SBP.
Screening and Identification of Coastal Chilean Thraustochytrids for Arachidonic Acid Production: Biotechnological Potential of Ulkenia visurgensis Lng2-Strain
Authors: Vasquez-Sandoval Cinthia , Navarrete José , Herrera-Herrera Paula , Dantagnan Patricio , Diaz-Navarrete Paola , Arancibia-Avila Patricia , Oviedo Claudia
Published: February 2023

Thraustochytrids are unicellular heterotrophic marine protists that have been described as producing a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Among them, arachidonic acid (ARA) stands out as a precursor of several mediators of pivotal importance for the immune system. However, the biotechnological potential of thraustochytrids for ARA production has not been developed. The objective of this study is to isolate and identify native strains from different Chilean coastal environments and evaluate in vitro the effect of culture parameters such as C/N ratio (19 and 33) and temperature (15 °C and 23 °C) on biomass production and arachidonic acid content. A total of nine strains were identified and classified into four genera of the Thraustochitridae family. The Lng2 strain with 99% identity belongs to the species Ulkenia visurgenis and was the most prominent one for ARA production. Temperature had an effect on the PUFA profile but not on the ARA content nor on the biomass yield. Additionally, the C/N ratio has been identified as a key parameter. The ARA productivity increased by 92% (from 0.6 to 8.3 ARA mg/g-DW) and its total biomass by 62.7% (from 1.9 to 5.1 g/L) at a high C/N ratio (33) as compared to the control.
Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of Paracoccidioides Species Complex Present in Paracoccidioidomycosis Patient Tissue Samples
Authors: de Oliveira Luciana Bonome Zeminian , Della Coletta Amanda Manoel , Gardizani Taiane Priscila , Garces Hans Garcia , Bagagli Eduardo , Trilles Luciana , Barrozo Ligia Vizeu , Marques Sílvio de Alencar , Faveri Julio De , Dias-Melicio Luciane Alarcão
Published: February 2023

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is the main and most prevalent systemic mycosis in Latin America, that until recently, it was believed to be caused only by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis (P. brasiliensis). In 2006, researchers described three cryptic species: S1, PS2, PS3, and later, another one, PS4. In 2009, Paracoccidioides lutzii (Pb01-like) was described, and in 2017, a new nomenclature was proposed for the different agents: P. brasiliensis (S1), P. americana (PS2), P. restrepiensis (PS3), and P. venezuelensis (PS4). These species are not uniformly distributed throughout Latin America and, knowing that more than one cryptic species could coexist in some regions, we aimed to identify those species in patients’ biopsy samples for a better understanding of the distribution and occurrence of these recently described species in Botucatu region. The Hospital of Medical School of Botucatu—UNESP, which is a PCM study pole, is located in São Paulo State mid-west region and is classified as a PCM endemic area. Genotyping analyses of clinical specimens from these patients that have been diagnosed and treated in our Hospital could favor a possible correlation between genetic groups and mycological and clinical characteristics. For this, molecular techniques to differentiate Paracoccidioides species in these biopsies, such as DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing of three target genes (ITS, CHS2, and ARF) were conducted. All the sequences were analyzed at BLAST to testify the presence of P. brasiliensis. The phylogenetic trees were constructed using Mega 7.0 software and showed that 100% of our positive samples were from S1 cryptic species, therefore P. brasiliensis. This is important data, demonstrating the predominance of this species in the São Paulo State region.
Ore Genesis of the Abu Ghalaga Ferro-Ilmenite Ore Associated with Neoproterozoic Massive-Type Gabbros, South-Eastern Desert of Egypt: Evidence from Texture and Mineral Chemistry
Authors: El-Desoky Hatem M. , Abdel-Rahman Ahmed M. , Fahmy Wael , Khalifa Ibrahim , Mohamed Salah A. , Shirazi Aref , Hezarkhani Ardeshir , Shirazy Adel , Pour Amin Beiranvand
Published: February 2023

Massif-type mafic intrusions (gabbro and anorthosite) are known for their considerable resources of vanadium-bearing iron–titanium oxide ores. Massive-type gabbroic and anorthosite rocks are frequently associated with magmatic rocks that have significant quantities of iron, titanium, and vanadium. The most promising intrusions that host Fe-Ti oxide ores are the gabbroic rocks in the south-eastern desert. The ilmenite ore deposits are hosted in arc gabbroic and anorthosite rocks. They are classified into three types, namely black ore, red ore, and disseminated ore. The black ilmenite ore is located at the deeper level, while the oxidized red ore is mainly located at or near the surface. Petrographically, the gabbro and ilmenite ores indicate a crystallization sequence of plagioclase, titaniferous pyroxene, and ilmenite. This reveals that the ilmenite is a magmatic deposit formed by the liquid gravity concentration of ilmenite following the crystallization of feldspar and pyroxene. Meanwhile, quartz, tremolite, zoisite, and opaque minerals are accessory minerals. The Fe-Ti ores are composed of ilmenite hosting exsolved hematite lamellae of variable sizes and shapes, gangue silicate minerals, and some sulfides. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) data reveal the presence of two mineral phases: ilmenite and hematite formed by the unmixing of the ferroilmenite homogeneous phase upon cooling. As a result, the ore is mostly made up of hemo-ilmenite. Using an electron microscope (SEM), as well as by observing the textures seen by the ore microscope, ilmenite is the dominant Fe-Ti oxide and contains voluminous hematite exsolved crystals. Under the scanning electron microscope, ilmenite contained intergrowths of hematite as a thin sandwich and lens shape. The formation of hematite lamellae indicates an oxidation process. Mineral chemistry-based investigations reveal late/post-magmatic activity at high temperatures. The examined ilmenite plots on the ferro-ilmenite line were created by continuous solid solution over 800 °C, whereas the analyzed magnetite and Ti-magnetite plot near the magnetite line and were formed by continuous solid solution exceeding 600 °C.
Modelling Flocculation in a Thickener Feedwell Using a Coupled Computational Fluid Dynamics–Population Balance Model
Authors: Tang Hailong , Fan Yuping , Ma Xiaomin , Dong Xianshu , Chang Ming , Li Na
Published: February 2023

The flocculation that takes place in the central feedwell of the thickener plays a crucial role in the coal-slurry thickening process, which is not only complex but also largely influenced by the flow characteristics. A coupled computational fluid dynamics–population balance model (CFD–PBM) was used to model the complex flocculation-thickening behaviour in an industrial-scale gravity thickener. The initialisation parameters of the inlet flow were obtained through self-designed image-recognition experiments, and then the effects of different types of conical deflectors on the floc distribution were simulated and analysed using them. The results showed that, under the condition that the angle of the conical deflector’s sides in the vertical plane was known, a reasonable increase in the height of the bottom surface could reduce the annular spanwise vortices at the underflow of the feedwell, thereby avoiding the erosion of the inlet flow and the annular spanwise vortex on the floc deposition layer. However, excessive height on the part of the conical deflector could affect the flocculation effect of solid particles. For the same central feedwell size of the thickener as in the simulation, the best flocculation effect was achieved at an angle of α = 24° in the vertical plane of the conical deflector. Turbulence regulation of the conical deflector promotes the aggregation of fine particles in the fluid of the feedwell, providing a new method for the intensification of the flocculation-concentration process.
Dissipative Soliton Mode-Locked Erbium-Doped Fiber Laser Using Nb2AlC Nanomaterial Saturable Absorber
Authors: Markom Arni Munira , Ghafar Nurul Athirah Mohamad Abdul , Batumalay Malathy , Yusof Yusrina , Rosol Ahmad Haziq Aiman , Zulkipli Nur Farhanah , Muhammad Ahmad Razif , Haris Hazlihan , Saad Ismail , Harun Sulaiman Wadi
Published: February 2023

We report the fabrication of an erbium-doped fiber-based saturable absorber (SA) of niobium aluminium carbide (Nb2AlC) nanomaterial that can generate a dissipative soliton mode-locked pulse. Stable mode-locked pulses operating at 1530 nm with repetition rates of 1 MHz and pulse widths of 6.375 ps were produced using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and the Nb2AlC nanomaterial. A peak pulse energy of 7.43 nJ was measured at 175.87 mW pump power. In addition to providing some useful design suggestions for manufacturing SAs based on MAX phase materials, this work shows the MAX phase materials’ immense potential for making ultra-short laser pulses.
Correction: Liu et al. Functionalized MoS2 Nanoflowers with Excellent Near-Infrared Photothermal Activities for Scavenging of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria. Nanomaterials 2021, 11, 2829
Authors: Liu Lulu , Wu Wanfeng , Fang Yan , Liu Haoqiang , Chen Fei , Zhang Minwei , Qin Yanan
Published: February 2023

In the original publication [...]
Acute Insulin Secretory Effects of a Classic Ketogenic Meal in Healthy Subjects: A Randomized Cross-Over Study
Authors: Battezzati Alberto , Foppiani Andrea , Leone Alessandro , De Amicis Ramona , Spadafranca Angela , Mari Andrea , Bertoli Simona
Published: February 2023

The classic ketogenic diet (KD) is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that mimics a starvation state with sufficient caloric intake to sustain growth and development. KD is an established treatment for several diseases, and it is currently evaluated in the management of insulin-resistant states, although insulin secretion after a classic ketogenic meal has never been investigated. We measured the insulin secretion to a ketogenic meal in 12 healthy subjects (50% females, age range 19–31 years, BMI range 19.7–24.7 kg/m2) after cross-over administrations of a Mediterranean meal and a ketogenic meal both satisfying ~40% of an individual’s total energy requirement, in random order and separated by a 7-day washout period. Venous blood was sampled at baseline and at 10, 20, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min to measure glucose, insulin, and C-peptide concentrations. Insulin secretion was calculated from C-peptide deconvolution and normalized to the estimated body surface area. Glucose, insulin concentrations, and insulin secretory rate were markedly reduced after the ketogenic meal with respect to the Mediterranean meal: glucose AUC in the first OGTT hour −643 mg × dL−1 × min−1, 95% CI −1134, −152, p = 0.015; total insulin concentration −44,943 pmol/L, 95% CI −59,181, −3706, p < 0.001; peak rate of insulin secretion −535 pmol × min−1 × m−2, 95% CI −763, −308, p < 0.001. We have shown that a ketogenic meal is disposed of with only a minimal insulin secretory response compared to a Mediterranean meal. This finding may be of interest to patients with insulin resistance and or insulin secretory defects.
Nurses’ Motivations, Barriers, and Facilitators to Engage in a Peer Review Process: A Qualitative Study Protocol
Authors: Belo Fernandes Júlio , Domingos Josefa , Dean John , Fernandes Sónia , Ferreira Rogério , Baixinho Cristina Lavareda , Castro Cidália , Simões Aida , Bernardes Catarina , Almeida Ana Silva , Loureiro Sónia , Ferreira Noélia , Santos Isabel , Godinho Catarina
Published: February 2023

Peer review supports the integrity and quality of scientific publishing. However, although it is a fundamental part of the publishing process, peer review can also be challenging for reviewers, editors, and other stakeholders. The present study aims to explore the nurses’ motivations, barriers, and facilitators in engaging in a peer review process. This qualitative, descriptive exploratory study will be developed in partnerships with three research centers. Researchers followed the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) checklist to ensure the quality of this study protocol. According to the selection criteria, the purposive sampling will be used to recruit nurse researchers that act as peer reviewers for several scientific journals in various fields of knowledge. Interviews will be conducted until data have been sufficiently consistent with meeting the initial objectives. Researchers will develop a guide comprising a set of open-ended questions to collect participants’ characteristics, descriptive review behavior, and perceptions regarding their motivations, barriers, and facilitators. Researchers will analyze data using an inductive process of content analysis with the help of the QDA Miner Lite database. Findings from this study will generate knowledge that may help stakeholders identify facilitating factors and barriers and guide the development of strategies to remove or minimize these barriers.