bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tumor-Induced T Cell Polarization by Schwann Cells
Authors: Shurin Galina V. , Vats Kavita , Kruglov Oleg , Bunimovich Yuri L. , Shurin Michael R.
Published: November 2022

Nerve-cancer crosstalk resulting in either tumor neurogenesis or intratumoral neurodegeneration is critically controlled by Schwann cells, the principal glial cells of the peripheral nervous system. Though the direct stimulating effect of Schwann cells on malignant cell proliferation, motility, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and the formation of metastases have been intensively investigated, the ability of Schwann cells to affect the effector and regulatory immune cells in the tumor environment is significantly less studied. Here, we demonstrated that tumor cells could stimulate Schwann cells to produce high levels of prostaglandin E, which could be blocked by COX-2 inhibitors. This effect was mediated by tumor-derived TGF-β as neutralization of this cytokine in the tumor-conditioned medium completely blocked the inducible prostaglandin E production by Schwann cells. Similar protective effects were also induced by the Schwann cell pretreatment with TGF-βR1/ALK4/5/7 and MAPK/ERK kinase inhibitors of the canonical and non-canonical TGF-β signaling pathways, respectively. Furthermore, prostaglandin E derived from tumor-activated Schwann cells blocked the proliferation of CD3/CD28-activated T cells and upregulated the expression of CD73 and PD-1 on both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, suggesting T cell polarization to the exhausted phenotype. This new pathway of tumor-induced T cell inhibition via the activation of neuroglial cells represents new evidence of the importance of nerve–cancer crosstalk in controlling tumor development and progression. A better understanding of the tumor-neuro-immune axis supports the development of efficient targets for harnessing this axis and improving the efficacy of cancer therapy.
Changes in Arterial Stiffness in Response to Various Types of Exercise Modalities: A Narrative Review on Physiological and Endothelial Senescence Perspectives
Authors: Kresnajati Sandhya , Lin Yi-Yuan , Mündel Toby , Bernard Jeffrey R. , Lin Hsin-Fu , Liao Yi-Hung
Published: November 2022

Arterial stiffness is a reliable independent predictor of cardiovascular events. Exercise training might enhance arterial compliance through improved metabolic health status. Different modes of exercise may have different effects on arterial stiffness. However, the interactions among different modes of exercise on endothelial senescence, the development of arterial vascular stiffness, and the associated molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. In this narrative review, we evaluate the current evidence focusing on the effects of various exercise modes on arterial stiffness and vascular health, and the known underlying physiological mechanisms are discussed as well. Here, we discuss the most recent evidence of aerobic exercise, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and resistance exercise (RE) on arterial stiffness and endothelial senescence in physiological and cellular studies. Indeed, aerobic, HIIT, and progression RE-induced arterial compliance may reduce arterial stiffness by effectively promoting nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and reducing endothelial senescence. However, the transient increase in inflammation and sympathetic activation may contribute to the temporary elevation in arterial stiffness following whole-body high-intensity acute resistance exercise.
Education for Human Flourishing—A New Conceptual Framework for Promoting Ecosystemic Wellbeing in Schools
Authors: Ellyatt Wendy
Published: November 2022

Debates about the true purpose of education have increased globally in recent years, with climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating interest in the subject. It has become clear that education systems play a vital role not only in shaping the values, mindsets and ethical behaviours that we need for caring and responsible societies, but also in influencing our everyday interactions with the environment. To that end, wellbeing always concerns the triple nature of self, others and the natural world and there is increasing recognition of the need to move from a primary focus on personal happiness and attainment to a more balanced interest in the optimisation of human flourishing within the context of sustainable and regenerative futures. This article introduces the educational work of the Flourish Project, exploring the degree to which schools need to be understood as living systems and the way curricular frameworks, as they currently stand, may be inadvertently contributing to human languishing rather than flourishing. It explains the thinking behind the Flourish Model and describes the way in which the educational aspect of the Flourish Project hopes to contribute not only to the ongoing debate concerning the role of flourishing in education, but also to the growing global interest in the Inner Development Goals (IDGs) as skills and qualities that are vital for purposeful, sustainable, and productive lives.
Rheological Properties of Film-Forming Dispersions of Selected Biopolymers Used for Packaging Films or Food Coating
Authors: Janowicz Monika , Sitkiewicz Iwona , Ciurzyńska Agnieszka , Galus Sabina
Published: November 2022

Film-forming solutions based on four types of biopolymers were prepared and their rheological properties were determined. High methylated apple pectin and sodium alginate were used at the concentrations 1%, 1.5%, and 2%, whereas soy protein isolate and pork gelatin were obtained at 4%, 8%, and 12%. The parameters determining the production of the appropriate type of packaging film or edible coating are the setting time on the substrate, regardless of its type, and the gelation temperature, which were analyzed in the study by determination of flow curves and rheological parameters of prepared dispersions. The Newtonian model was used to describe the flow curves of the gelatin and sodium alginate solutions, while the Ostwald–de Waele model was used to describe the flow curves of the soy protein isolate and high methylated apple pectin solutions. The apparent viscosity of all solutions increased with increasing biopolymer concentrations, from 0.0042 to 0.0061 Pa·s and from 0.0187 to 0.0884 Pa·s for high-methylated apple pectin and sodium alginate, respectively; whereas, for a protein-based solution the viscosity increase was from 0.024 to 0.100 Pa·s and from 0.0018 to 0.0056 Pa·s for soy and gelatin, respectively. Modulus of elasticity curves appeared only at the highest concentrations, which means that the formation of the continuous structure of film or coating occurs by different mechanisms depending on the biopolymer type and its amount dispersed in aqueous solutions.
Duplex Treatment of AISI 420 Steel by RF-ICP Nitriding and CrAlN Coating Deposition: The Role of Nitriding Duration
Authors: Sidelev Dmitrii Vladimirovich , Voronina Ekaterina Dmitrievna , Kashkarov Egor Borisovich
Published: November 2022

The duplex treatment of AISI 420 steel samples by nitriding in a radiofrequency inductively coupled plasma (RF-ICP) discharge of Ar + N2 + H2 atmosphere followed by CrAlN coating deposition was performed in this study. The influence of plasma nitriding (PN) duration (10, 20, 40, and 60 min) on the structural and functional properties of the duplex-treated samples was determined. A non-linear dependence of AISI 420 steel nitriding kinetics was found on the square root of the PN duration. The thicknesses of the compound layer (CL) and nitrogen diffusion zone (DZ) in the samples and their phase composition resulted in different critical loads of coating failures under adhesion tests. Increasing the load-bearing capacity by the PN caused coating hardening in duplex-treated samples. The role of the PN duration on the wear characteristics of the AISI 420 steel samples after the duplex treatment has been discussed. Corrosion tests of AISI 420 steel demonstrated the significant enhancement (5–67 times) of its corrosion resistance in a 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution after duplex treatment.
First Principles Study on the Adsorption of Hydrogen Atoms on the Surface of Plutonium-Aluminum Systems
Authors: Su Huan , Zhu Min , Li Longxian , Huang Huang , Yang Yang
Published: November 2022

Three doping models with different aluminum atomic contents on the δ-Pu surface are established. The surface energy of the doping model and the electronic structure at the Fermi level is calculated. After finding out the stable structure, the adsorption behavior of the H atoms at three different positions is simulated. It is concluded that the surface energy of the doping model obtained by substituting two Al for plutonium (100) is the lowest (0.041 eV), and the structure is the most stable. In the H adsorption, the heart site has the largest adsorption energy (4.659 eV), which is the most stable adsorption. In the work function analysis, the Pu-Al system, after adsorbing an H atom, less likely to lose electrons, thus slowing down further chemical corrosion. In the doping model, the 5f and 6d electrons of the plutonium and the 3d electrons of the aluminum have strong interactions to form a stable structure.
Detail Analysis for Energy Transfer and Pigment Assembling in C−Phycocyanin through Time−Resolved Spectroscopy and AlphaFold2
Authors: Xiao Chao , Guo Na , Liang Zidong , Zhao Fuli , Xie Mingyuan
Published: November 2022

The time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy of the C−phycocyanin (C−PC) complex from the cyanobacterium Spirulina platensis (S. platensis) hexamer with the sub-picosecond resolution was detected, and the energy transfer pathways and related transfer rates were identified through the multiexponential analysis based on Monte-Carlo method. With the purpose to construct the relationship between the functions and the structure in vivo, the three−dimension (3D) protein structure was predicted via AlphaFold2, and the arrangement of chromophores treated as the energy transfer nodes were obtained. The experiment results have been matched well with the structure prediction. This work suggests a new way to investigate structure prediction in vivo and the corresponding functions.
HE4 Tissue Expression as A Putative Prognostic Marker in Low-Risk/Low-Grade Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer: A Review
Authors: Mais Valerio , Fais Maria Luisa , Peiretti Michele , Fanni Daniela , Massa Elena , Carboni Giulia , Fais Giuseppina , Deo Giuseppe , Angioni Stefano
Published: November 2022

Low-grade stage I endometrioid endometrial carcinomas should have an excellent prognosis, but a small subset of these cancers can relapse. The search for putative immunohistochemical prognostic markers for relapse in low-risk/low-grade endometrioid endometrial cancers remains open. Among the candidate molecules that may implicate the roles of immunohistochemical risk markers, we focused our attention on human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) after a review of the literature. Few authors have devoted themselves to this topic, and none have found a correlation between the tissue expression of HE4 and the molecular classification of endometrial cancer. Five different variants of HE4 mRNA and multiple protein isoforms of HE4 were identified many years ago, but current HE4 assays only measure the total HE4 expression and do not distinguish the different proteins encoded by different mRNA variants. It is important to have an approach to distinguish specific variants in the future.
Flower-Visiting Insect Assemblages on Fall-Blooming Native California Sage Scrub Shrubs
Authors: Dartnell Sofia , Cavalcanti Andre R. O. , Misaki Bluebell Ayame , Hamlett Nancy V. , Crane Edward J. , Meyer Wallace M.
Published: November 2022

Pollinator studies in the endangered California sage scrub ecosystem have focused on spring insect assemblages, when most plant species bloom. Consequently, the insect assemblages using common fall-blooming sage scrub shrubs Lepidospartum squamatum, Ericameria pinifolia, and Baccharis pilularis remain undescribed. Our study aimed to: (1) document flower-visiting insect assemblages on fall-blooming shrubs, (2) assess the efficacy of three sampling techniques in inventorying insect assemblages, and (3) explore, using DNA metabarcoding, which plants are utilized and the extent to which surrounding suburban habitats’ plants are also used. While elevated sampling is required to inventory flower-visiting insects, we describe a diverse assemblage consisting of 123 species. Insect assemblages differed between L. squamatum and B. pilularis, as well as, E. pinifolia and B. pilularis, but not between L. squamatum and E. pinifolia. Direct sampling approaches (netting and photo documentation) collected 115 species not collected by passive malaise traps, highlighting that active observations are required to describe flower-visiting insect assemblages. Sequencing the ITS2 region of pollen from abundant visitors revealed that a majority of pollen is from the sage scrub ecosystem, highlighting its value. Our results indicate that the presence of fall-blooming shrubs may be critical for maintaining diverse sage scrub insect and pollinator assemblages.
Optimum Efficiency of a Steam Ejector for Fire Suppression Based on the Variable Mixing Section Diameter
Authors: Han Yu , Wang Xiaodong , Li Ao , A. Elbarghthi Anas F. , Wen Chuang
Published: November 2022

The steam ejector is valuable and efficient in the fire suppression field due to its strong fluid-carrying capacity and mixing ability. It utilizes pressurized steam droplets generated at the exit to extinguish the fire quickly and the steam droplet strategy allows for an expressive decrease in water consumption. In this regard, the fire suppression process is influenced by the steam ejector efficiency, the performance of the pressurized steam, and the ejector core geometry, which controls the quality of the extinguishing mechanisms. This study investigated the impact of different mixing section diameters on the pumping performance of the ejector. The results showed that change in the diffuser throat diameter was susceptible to the entrainment ratio, which significantly increased, by 4 mm, by increasing the throat diameter of the diffuser and improved the pumping efficiency. Still, the critical back pressure of the ejector reduced. In addition, the diameter effect was studied and analyzed to evaluate the ejector performance under different operating parameters. The results revealed a rise in the entrainment ratio, then it diminished with increasing primary fluid pressure. The highest entrainment ratio recorded was 0.5 when the pressure reached 0.36 MPa at the critical range of back pressure, where the entrainment ratio remained constant until a certain back pressure value. Exceeding the critical pressure by increasing the back pressure to 7000 Pa permitted the entrainment ratio to reduce to zero. An optimum constant diameter maximized the ejector pumping efficiency under certain operating parameters. In actual design and production, it is necessary to consider both the exhaust efficiency and the ultimate exhaust capacity of the ejector.
Mn-Rich NMC Cathode for Lithium-Ion Batteries at High-Voltage Operation
Authors: Thapa Arjun Kumar , Lavery Brandon W. , Hona Ram K. , Sapkota Nawraj , Kalutara Koralalage Milinda , Adeniran Ayodeji , Ajayi Babajide Patrick , Zain Muhammad Akram , Wang Hui , Druffel Thad , Jasinski Jacek B. , Sumanasekera Gamini U. , Sunkara Mahendra K. , Yoshio Masaki
Published: November 2022

Development in high-rate electrode materials capable of storing vast amounts of charge in a short duration to decrease charging time and increase power in lithium-ion batteries is an important challenge to address. Here, we introduce a synthesis strategy with a series of composition-controlled NMC cathodes, including LiNi0.2Mn0.6Co0.2O2(NMC262), LiNi0.3Mn0.5Co0.2O2(NMC352), and LiNi0.4Mn0.4Co0.2O2(NMC442). A very high-rate performance was achieved for Mn-rich LiNi0.2Mn0.6Co0.2O2 (NMC262). It has a very high initial discharge capacity of 285 mAh g−1 when charged to 4.7 V at a current of 20 mA g−1 and retains the capacity of 201 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. It also exhibits an excellent rate capability of 138, and 114 mAh g−1 even at rates of 10 and 15 C (1 C = 240 mA g−1). The high discharge capacities and excellent rate capabilities of Mn-rich LiNi0.2Mn0.6Co0.2O2 cathodes could be ascribed to their structural stability, controlled particle size, high surface area, and suppressed phase transformation from layered to spinel phases, due to low cation mixing and the higher oxidation state of manganese. The cathodic and anodic diffusion coefficient of the NMC262 electrode was determined to be around 4.76 × 10−10 cm2 s−1 and 2.1 × 10−10 cm2 s−1, respectively.
Research Progress on Convective Heat Transfer Characteristics of Supercritical Fluids in Curved Tube
Authors: Liu Xinxin , Li Shuoshuo , Liu Liang , He Chao , Sun Zhuang , Özdemir Faruk , Aziz Muhammad , Kuo Po-Chih
Published: November 2022

Because of their compact structure, ease of processing and higher heat transfer coefficient, curved-tube heat exchangers are widely applied in various industry applications, such as nuclear power systems, solar-powered engineering, aircraft engine cooling systems and refrigeration and cryogenic systems. Accurate knowledge about the heat transfer characteristics of the supercritical fluids in the tube is critical to the design and optimization of a curved-tube heat exchanger. The available literature indicates that the flow of supercritical fluids flowing in curved tubes affected by the dual effects of the buoyancy force and centrifugal force is more complex compared to straight tubes. Therefore, to obtain insight into their unique characteristics and further research progress, this paper presents a comprehensive review of available experimental and numerical research works on fluids at supercritical pressure flowing in curved tubes. Overall, the secondary flow caused by the curvature enhances the heat transfer and delays the heat transfer deterioration, but it also causes a non-uniform heat transfer distribution along the circumferential direction, and the strengthening performance of the curved tube is damaged. Compared with the more mature theories regarding straight tubes, the flow structure, the coupling mechanism of buoyancy and centrifugal force, and the general heat transfer correlation of supercritical fluids in a curved tube still urgently need to be further studied. Most importantly, studies on the suppression of heat transfer oscillations and heat transfer inhomogeneities specific to curved tubes are scarce. Considering the current status and shortcomings of existing studies, some study topics for supercritical fluids in a curved tube are proposed.
Transmission Network Expansion Planning with High-Penetration Solar Energy Using Particle Swarm Optimization in Lao PDR toward 2030
Authors: Keokhoungning Thongsavanh , Premrudeepreechacharn Suttichai , Wongsinlatam Wullapa , Namvong Ariya , Remsungnen Tawun , Mueanrit Nongram , Sorn-in Kanda , Kravenkit Satit , Siritaratiwat Apirat , Srichan Chavis , Khunkitti Sirote , Surawanitkun Chayada
Published: November 2022

The complexity and uncertainty of power sources connected to transmission networks need to be considered. Planners need information on the sustainability and economics of transmission network expansion planning (TNEP). This work presents a newly proposed method for TNEP that considers high-penetration solar energy by using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm. The power sources, thermal and hydropower plants, and conditions of load were set in the account, including an uncertain power source and solar energy (PV). The optimal sizing and locating of the PV to be connected to the network were determined by the PSO. The PV grid code was set in the account. The new line’s investment cost and equipment was analyzed. The PV cost was considered based on the power loss, and the system’s reliability was improved. The IEEE 118 bus test system and Lao PDR’s system were requested to test the proposed practice. The results demonstrate that the proposed TNEP method is robust and feasible. The simulation results will be applied to guide the power system planning of Lao PDR.
Effect of Aged Nonlinear Resistive Field Grading Material on Electric Field Distribution of DC Cone Spacer
Authors: Han Yongsen , Yang Feng , Zhao Chenguang
Published: November 2022

Nonlinear resistive field grading materials are widely used in the electrical and electronic applications, and are usually researched based on the initial nonlinear conductivity characteristics of synthetic materials. However, the long-term stability of these materials are rarely reported. In this paper, the effects of thermal ageing on nonlinear resistive field grading material and the electric field distribution of DC cone spacers are studied. The 30 wt.% SiC/epoxy micro-composites are prepared and are thermally aged at 180 °C for 1080 h. The infrared spectroscopy, dielectric properties, breakdown strength and nonlinear conductivity are measured, respectively. In addition, a simulation model for a cone spacer is built, and the electric field and power dissipation density are calculated. With the increasing thermal ageing time, the relative permittivity and loss tangent increase, and the breakdown strength decreases. Besides, the nonlinear coefficient of nonlinear conductivity almost increases, and the switching electric field of nonlinear conductivity decreases. Simulation results show that the aged micro-composites can homogenize the electric field in the cone spacer, but the thermal ageing causes the increase in power dissipation density and threatens the safe operation of the cone spacer.
Efficiency Improvement of Magnetic Coupler with Nanocrystalline Alloy Film for UAV Wireless Charging System with a Carbon Fiber Fuselage
Authors: Yang Fengshuo , Jiang Jinhai , Sun Chuanyu , He Aina , Chen Wanqi , Lan Yu , Song Kai
Published: November 2022

Existing research on the magnetic coupler of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) wireless charging systems usually ignores the UAV fuselage, but the fuselage causes eddy current loss and reduces a system’s efficiency. Therefore, aiming at the above problems, this paper proposes a design for a magnetic coupler using nanocrystalline cores to reduce the loss caused by the UAV fuselage. First, the parameters of the asymmetric circular coils were designed for higher mutual inductance. The losses caused by the windings and cores were also calculated. Second, for the loss effect of the carbon fiber fuselage, the fuselage was modeled as an additional coil coupled with both the transmitting and receiving coils. The fact that the eddy current induced by the fuselage leads to efficiency reduction is revealed, which has been generally ignored by previous research. Then, the effect of the nanocrystalline alloy was analyzed based on the magnetic circuit model. An optimized nanocrystalline alloy film was applied to reduce eddy current loss and improve coupler efficiency. Finally, an experimental prototype with a 500 W output, 90.3% efficiency, and a 300 mm air gap were fabricated. When compared to the design without UAV material considerations, the coupler efficiency was improved by 7.9%.
Study on the Effect of Acid Corrosion on Proppant Properties
Authors: Xu Feng , Yao Kuai , Li Desheng , Xu Dongjin , Yang Huan
Published: November 2022

Pre-acid fracturing is an effective technique to improve productivity of tight reservoirs. While acid injection can clean the formation and improve the fracturing performance by reducing the fracture pressure of the reservoir, the chemical reaction of the acid solution with proppant may reduce the compressive strength of the proppant and therefore negatively affect the fracture conductivity. In this study, we experimentally investigated the solubility of the proppant in acid and the effect of acid corrosion on proppant compressive strength and fracture conductivity. The results show that the concentration of the acid solution has the greatest effect on solubility of the proppant, which is followed by the contact reaction time. Though a proppant of larger particle size indicates a lower solubility, the acid corrosion poses a greater damage to its compressive strength and conductivity. The quartz sand proppant exhibits superior stability to ceramic proppant when they are subjected to acid corrosion. The experimental results could serve as reference for selection of proppant and optimization of acid concentration and duration of acid treatment during pre-acid fracturing.
Fault Diagnosis of Induction Motor Using D-Q Simplified Model and Parity Equations
Authors: Rodriguez-Blanco Marco Antonio , Golikov Victor , Osorio-Sánchez René , Samovarov Oleg , Ortiz-Torres Gerardo , Sanchez-Lara Rafael , Vazquez-Avila Jose Luis
Published: November 2022

Induction motors are the horsepower in the industrial environment, and among them, 3-phase induction motors (3PIMs) stand out for their robustness and standard 3-phase power supply. In the literature, there are many approaches to diagnose faults for the nonlinear 3PIM model, and the vast majority focus on a single motor fault, although others address more faults but at the cost of greater computational complexity. In this sense, one of the methods with less computational load and early detection is the parity equation approach, which is based on analyzing the discrepancy between the input and output signals of a real process and a linear mathematical model to generate a residual signal, which contains important information about the fault and is obtained through a suitable selection of a weighting matrix W to isolate the faults as much as possible. The problem in this case study is that the 3PIM model is a nonlinear system. In this work, the fault detection method based on the parity equations approach applied in the 3PIM is explored using a simplified and proposed model of the 3PIM working in the D-Q synchronous reference frame, which is matched with the direct current motor model to guarantee both the existence of the parity space and to ensure a large set of detectable faults in the 3PIM parameters. Simulation and experimental results validate the proposed scheme and confirm a very simple set of residual equations to guarantee both early detection and a large set of detectable faults in: Stator and rotor resistances, stator and rotor inductances, as well as current, voltage, and speed sensors. Additionally, development of human machine interface (HMI) is implemented to validate the proposed scheme.
Sedimentary Characteristics and Their Controlling Factors of Lower Cretaceous Fan Deltas in Saidong Sub-Sag of Saihantala Sag, Erlian Basin, Northeastern China
Authors: Yan Bo , Yuan Hongqi , Shan Xuanlong , Zhou Tianqi , Liu Shengfei
Published: November 2022

Fan deltas of the Lower Cretaceous area in Saihantala sag, Erlian Basin have been identified as major petroleum exploration opportunities. The sedimentary evolution is, however, still debatable, which hinders insights into its controlling factors. This research employed new core observations, thin section observations, and grain size analyses of 28 wells in the Saidong sub-sag, together with numerous borehole and seismic data points, to explore lithofacies types, subfacies, and microfacies characteristics, thus leading to a further investigation of the sedimentary facies evolution of the sag and its controlling factors. The findings showed there are 3 categories, 12 sub-categories, and 20 fine lithofacies types in the Saidong sub-sag. Additionally, various sand-conglomerate lithofacies were characterized by lower composition and texture maturity. With dentate-shaped, box-bell-shaped, and other morphological well-logging responses, fan deltas were mostly developed in the A’ershan Formation and the Tengge’er Formation, which could be subdivided into three subfacies and eight microfacies. Given the sedimentary features and lithofacies characteristics of each microfacies, it can be determined that three main stages occurred in formations from the A’ershan to the Tengge’er: the water transgression, the water oscillation, and the water regression. Moreover, fan delta deposits were regulated primarily by semi-arid hygrothermal and semi-arid paleoclimate and paleotectonic factors.
Solid–Gas Sorption System for Ammonia Storage and Delivery Driven by Engine Waste Heat for NOx Reduction of Diesel Engine
Authors: Wang Chenjue , Chen Shi , Jiang Long , Wang Yaodong , Bao Huashan
Published: November 2022

A new design of a sorption-selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system is proposed to improve ammonia storage density and meet the ammonia demand for high NOx conversion efficiency at a relatively lower temperature (<100 °C) compared to urea-SCR systems. The major components are a main unit and a start-up unit that each contain a metal halide ammine as the sorbent. The start-up unit can operate without any external heat source, but spontaneously releases ammonia at the ambient temperature and is only used when the main unit is being warmed up for action. The selection criteria for the metal halide ammine for each unit is discussed. The working pair of SrCl2 as the main ammine and NH4Cl as the start-up ammine is further analyzed as an example to be used in the sorption-SCR system for a diesel engine, the NOx emissions of which were experimentally measured in different operation modes. Based on the experimental data of engine emissions and kinetic models of the chemisorption between ammines and ammonia, the dynamic performance of the sorption system with a total capacity of 180 L sorbent composite in different layouts was investigated and compared. It was found that the achievable desorption conversion degree was lower in smaller reactors and was more sensitive to operating conditions in smaller reactors compared to larger reactors. This suggests that a system using a small reactor layout requires some extra volume to completely meet the required capacity compared to a larger reactor layout. However, because systems with large reactors tend to respond slowly, as they have more thermal mass and take a longer time for preparation, there is a design trade-off required to have optimal performance and balance between the main unit and the start-up unit. In the case studied in this work, a system using three rechargeable reactors with a volume of 60 L each was found to be the preferable layout; it could have about a 90% desorption conversion degree and required around 10 min of warm-up time. Meanwhile, the coupled start-up unit should have a capacity of around 165 mL at least.
An Adaptive Strategy for Medium-Term Electricity Consumption Forecasting for Highly Unpredictable Scenarios: Case Study Quito, Ecuador during the Two First Years of COVID-19
Authors: Jaramillo Manuel , Carrión Diego
Published: November 2022

This research focuses its efforts on the prediction of medium-term electricity consumption for scenarios of highly variable electricity demand. Numerous approaches are used to predict electricity demand, among which the use of time series (ARMA, ARIMA) and the use of machine learning techniques, such as artificial neural networks, are the most covered in the literature review. All these approaches evaluate the prediction error when comparing the generated models with the data that fed the model, but they do not compare these values with the actual data of electricity demand once these are obtained, in addition, these techniques present high error values when there are unexpected changes in the trend of electricity consumption. This work proposes a methodology to generate an adaptive model for unexpected changes in electricity demand through the use of optimization in conjunction with SARIMA time series. The proposed case study is the electricity consumption in Quito, Ecuador to predict the electricity demand in the years 2019 and 2020, which are particularly challenging due to atypical electricity consumption attributed to COVID-19. The results show that the proposed model is capable of following the trend of electricity demand, adapting itself to sudden changes and obtaining an average error of 2.5% which is lower than the average error of 5.43% when using a non-adaptive approach (more than 50% or error improvement).
Evaluating the Forest Road Systems Subjected to Different Loadings by Using the Finite Element Method
Authors: Mușat Elena-Camelia , Bitir Ioan
Published: November 2022

In the actual context, in which there is a trend of increasing the weight of the vehicles used to transport materials, checking the deformations of road systems as a response to dynamic and static loadings is necessary to better manage the road infrastructure. The goal of the study was to evaluate how the number and the thickness of layers, and the material types could influence the behavior of the road systems subjected to different loads, and to find out which of the road systems have the smallest deformations. The Romania forest roads are classified into three categories, and the most important are the principal forest roads. There were chosen road systems proper to this category. Consequently, nine types of road systems were considered, based on the materials used and the thickness of the layers, and the deformations were evaluated by considering loads of 25, 35 and 45 tons. For modeling the behavior of road systems under different loads, the Finite Element Method (FEM) was used taking into consideration the static domain. The models show that, in all the cases, the deformations depend on the number of layers, while the thickness of the ballast layer can reduce the deformations because of the rigidness of the structure. Those findings are very important because not all the modeled roads systems could provide suitable bearing capacity. Hence, an inappropriate thickness of the layers could negatively influence the behavior of road systems under the traffic with weight increased.
Modeling the Effect of High Soil Moisture on the Wind Resistance of Urban Trees
Authors: Fan Chia-Cheng , Li Shu-Cheng , Lu Jin-Zong
Published: November 2022

In urban areas, typhoons frequently cause the tilting and uprooting of trees, resulting in damage to city infrastructure. During periods of intense rainfall, at shallow soil depths, soil water content is typically high, reducing the anchoring resistance of tree roots in the soil. Tree root systems play an important role in providing anchoring resistance against severe winds during typhoons. In this study, we examined the influence of high soil saturation on the turning resistance of trees by conducting winching tests on three tree species found in urban areas. In highly saturated soils, the maximum resisting moment of camphor trees (Cinnamomum camphora (L.) J. Presl.) is 35–50% lower than in soils with low saturation levels. A tree’s maximum resisting moment (TMmax) exhibits a linearly positive relationship with its diameter at breast height (DBH) in near-saturated soil conditions. The ratio of TMmax values to DBH in near-saturated soils is noticeably lower than in low-moisture soils. Our research establishes a relationship between the DBH of trees and the strength of the wind that they can resist during typhoons, as measured on the Beaufort scale.
What Is the Current Ergonomic Condition of Chainsaws in Non-Professional Use? A Case Study to Determine Vibrations and Noises in Small-Scale Agroforestry Farms
Authors: Papandrea Salvatore F. , Cataldo Maria F. , Zimbalatti Giuseppe , Grigolato Stefano , Proto Andrea R.
Published: November 2022

Agroforestry or agricultural forestry is an important resource for the exploitation of wood resources commonly based on a low level of mechanization and integrating agriculture crops land-management. Agroforestry areas consist often of buffer strip forest along the farms’ boundaries or on small forest stands within the same farms. Felling is commonly based on the use of chainsaws which are used occasionally, and are often aged models and with little maintenance done on them. In this context, the present study analyzes the vibration and noise generated by chainsaws in the specific contest of the agroforestry farms. The aim is to verify the hand-arm vibrations and noise level, which self-employed agroforest operators are exposed with the occasional use of aged and rarely maintained chainsaws. The main results show that vibration exposures are significantly affected by the model and condition of use of the chainsaw and at lower level, but still significant, by the wood and the position of the handle. Regarding noise levels, the chainsaw model and condition of use also has significant effects. In summary, this study highlights that the importance of the condition of use of the chainsaw has an important effect on the vibrations and noise exposition and that these, although limited due to the limited daily use by operators, must be carefully taken into consideration, and provide for containment actions through adequate information and training.
Assessing Social Values for Ecosystem Services in Rural Areas Based on the SolVES Model: A Case Study from Nanjing, China
Authors: Duan Haoran , Xu Ning
Published: November 2022

Assessing social values attributed to ecosystem services based on the Social Values for Ecosystem Services (SolVES) model helps ecosystems to provide services sustainably, including land and forest products and non-material services. Currently, urbanization has accelerated the deterioration of rural environments, which affects the supply of social values for rural ecosystem services. How to scientifically assess the social values for ecosystem services in rural areas remains to be studied. In addition, there are significant differences in the perceptions of social value among stakeholder groups. Therefore, this study aims to provide a complete and systematic approach to identify the social value of complex and specific rural ecosystem services and to fill the gap in the research of perceived differences among stakeholder groups in rural areas. On the basis of building environmental raster datasets on a village scale, this research applies the SolVES model to evaluate social values in the Paifang rural community. Results show that aesthetic, health care, recreation, and biodiversity values are highly regarded in rural areas. The normalized difference vegetation index, the distance to rural settlements, the distance to tourist attractions, and the distance to agricultural production spaces can improve the evaluation accuracy, and the level of social values can be predicted by certain environmental variables. The spatial distribution of social values and the degree of attention paid to the biodiversity value, and the trade-off between the aesthetic and biodiversity value are the main perception differences between villagers and tourists. This research contributes to ecological construction and sustainable development in rural areas.
Mycorrhizal Benefits of Salt-Stressed Cinnamomum camphora (L.) Presl. May Be Related to P and Mn2+ Contents in Shoots, Biomass Allocation, and K+/Na+ in Roots and Shoots
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Li Tiantian , Wu Aiping , Li Yan , Zhang Naili
Published: November 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are taken as bioameliorators to alleviate the detrimental effects of salt stress. However, how AMF affect the performance of Cinnamomum camphora, an economically important species, remains unclear. In this study, we evaluated the interactive effects of AMF and salinity on the growth, nutrient acquisition, and ion ratios of C. camphora. A factorial experiment was implemented in a greenhouse with four fungal regimes (inoculation with sterilized AMF, with Funneliformis mosseae or Rhizophagus irregularis, either alone or in combination), and three salt regimes (0, 50, and 200 mM NaCl). Results showed that salinity alone significantly reduced the total dry weight, mycorrhizal colonization, K+ concentration, and ionic homeostasis (particularly K+:Na+, Mg2+:Na+, and Ca2+:Na+) of whole plants. Mycorrhizal inoculation, particularly with R. irregularis, strongly mitigated some of the detrimental effects of salinity, enhancing the salt tolerance of C. camphora. Furthermore, the host plants benefited from the presence of AMF, mainly because they enhanced P and Mn2+ concentrations in the shoots, adjusted biomass allocation, and shifted the selective transporting capacity of K+ over Na+ from roots to shoots. Our results suggested that building mycorrhizal association between C. camphora and R. irregularis may be useful for plant cultivation in coastal areas.
Macrophages at the Crossroad of Meta-Inflammation and Inflammaging
Authors: Qu Lili , Matz Alyssa J. , Karlinsey Keaton , Cao Ziming , Vella Anthony T. , Zhou Beiyan
Published: November 2022

Macrophages are central players in systemic inflammation associated with obesity and aging, termed meta-inflammation and inflammaging. Activities of macrophages elicited by the two chronic conditions display shared and distinct patterns mechanistically, resulting in multifaceted actions for their pathogenic roles. Drastically expanded tissue macrophage populations under obesity and aging stress attribute to both enhanced recruitment and local expansion. Importantly, molecular networks governing the multifaceted actions of macrophages are directly altered by environmental cues and subsequently contribute to metabolic reprogramming, resulting in meta-inflammation in obesity or inflammaging in aging. In this review, we will summarize how meta-inflammation and inflammaging affect macrophages and the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes.
Factor V Leiden, Factor II, Protein C, Protein S, and Antithrombin and Ischemic Strokes in Young Adults: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tsalta-Mladenov Mihael , Levkova Mariya , Andonova Silva
Published: November 2022

Ischemic strokes are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The aim of this meta-analysis is to elaborate on the role of inherited predisposition to thrombophilia in the etiology of ischemic strokes in young adults. The keywords factor V Leiden (FVL), factor II, prothrombin (PT), protein C (PC), protein S (PS), antithrombin (AT), ischemic stroke, and young were used to search different databases. We selected studies with participants who were between 18 and 65 years. A total of 104 studies were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis. All the studied genetic markers were risk factors for ischemic stroke according to our results (FVL OR = 1.74; PT OR = 1.95; PC OR = 10.20; PS OR = 1.74; AT OR = 3.47; p < 0.05). There was moderate heterogeneity for most of the results, and subgroup analyses were conducted by dividing the studies according to the geographic location, gender ratio, and selection criteria of the performed study. There were no significant differences between the groups, but different geographic location was a probable source of heterogeneity. All of the studied markers—FVL, prothrombin, PC, PS, and AT—were significantly associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke in young adults and, if tested, could improve the quality of care.
Different Types of Deletions Created by Low-Copy Repeats Sequences Location in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome: Genotype–Phenotype Correlation
Authors: Gavril Eva-Cristiana , Popescu Roxana , Nucă Irina , Ciobanu Cristian-Gabriel , Butnariu Lăcrămioara Ionela , Rusu Cristina , Pânzaru Monica-Cristina
Published: November 2022

The most frequent microdeletion, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11.2DS), has a wide and variable phenotype that causes difficulties in diagnosis. 22q11.2DS is a contiguous gene syndrome, but due to the existence of several low-copy-number repeat sequences (LCR) it displays a high variety of deletion types: typical deletions LCR A–D—the most common (~90%), proximal deletions LCR A–B, central deletions (LCR B, C–D) and distal deletions (LCR D–E, F). Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 59 22q11.2SD cases, with the aim of highlighting phenotype–genotype correlations. All cases were tested using MLPA combined kits: SALSA MLPA KIT P245 and P250 (MRC Holland). Results: most cases (76%) presented classic deletion LCR A–D with various severity and phenotypic findings. A total of 14 atypical new deletions were identified: 2 proximal deletions LCR A–B, 1 CES (Cat Eye Syndrome region) to LCR B deletion, 4 nested deletions LCR B–D and 1 LCR C–D, 3 LCR A–E deletions, 1 LCR D–E, and 2 small single gene deletions: delDGCR8 and delTOP3B. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the wide phenotypic variety and incomplete penetrance of 22q11.2DS. Our findings contribute to the genotype–phenotype data regarding different types of 22q11.2 deletions and illustrate the usefulness of MLPA combined kits in 22q11.2DS diagnosis.
BOAM: A Visual, Explanatory Diagnostic and Psychoeducation System Used in Collaboration with Families—Feasibility and Acceptability for Children Who Are Non-Responsive to Treatment as Usual
Authors: Potharst Eva S. , Truijens Damiët , Seegers Isabelle C. M. , Spaargaren Julia F. , van Steensel Francisca J. A. , Bögels Susan M.
Published: November 2022

Many children referred to mental health services have neurodevelopmental problems, which are not always recognized because the resulting emotional and behavioral problems dominate diagnosis and treatment. BOAM (Basic needs, Order, Autonomy and Meaning) is a new diagnostic system consisting of imaginative models that explain the complexity of symptoms and underlying neuropsychological problems in a simple way. It is designed to be used in a transparent, collaborative process with families, so that family members can better understand the nature of mental health problems, thus increasing self-knowledge and mutual understanding. In this study, the feasibility of the BOAM diagnostic trajectory and subsequent treatment informed by this trajectory are evaluated clinically in 34 children who have not responded to or relapsed after treatment as usual (TAU). Parents completed questionnaires pre-test, post-test and at a 3-month follow-up. The treatment drop-out rate was 2.9%. Post-test, parents rated the BOAM trajectory positively. The questionnaires (measuring child psychopathology, attention, executive functioning, family functioning, partner relationships and parenting stress) demonstrated sensitivity to change, and therefore, seems appropriate for a future effectiveness study. A limitation was the high percentage of missing measurements both post-test (41%) and at the follow-up (41%). The BOAM diagnostic trajectory and subsequent treatment may be a feasible alternative for children who do not respond to or relapse after TAU.
Reaching the Nadir of Medication Overuse in Chronic Migraine
Authors: Onan Dilara , Wells-Gatnik William , Martelletti Paolo
Published: November 2022

The introduction of new drug classes for chronic migraine, such as monoclonal antibodies for calcitonin-gene-related peptide or its receptor (CGRPr), or antagonists of the same CGRP, have opened a new scenario in a selected population of individuals with migraine, and those presenting with chronic form of migraine in association with medication overuse. Medication overuse is now considered a complication of chronic migraine and, in fact, the treatment with CGRP(r)-MAbs of chronic migraine with medication overuse results in a clinical improvement of chronic migraine itself, accompanied by a parallel and obvious reduction in the intake of specific and non-specific acute migraine drugs. Education on the correct use of these drugs will be an essential tool to reduce the disability and costs of people suffering from CM complicated by MO, considering the long-term safety of the new therapies targeting the CGRP pathways. Only in this way can medication overuse risk can be reduced at its nadir in the scenario of chronicity of migraines.