bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Expression of CD45RO and CD45RA in Bovine T Cells
Authors: Kandel Anmol , Li Lei , Hada Akanksha , Xiao Zhengguo
Published: June 2022

Effective vaccination induces immune memory to protect animals upon pathogen re-encounter. Despite contradictory reports, bovine memory T cells are identified based on two isoforms of CD45, expression of CD45RO plus exclusion of CD45RA. In this report, we contrasted CD45RA/RO expression on circulatory T cells with IFNγ and IL4 expression induced by a conventional method. To our surprise, 20% of cattle from an enclosed herd did not express CD45RO on T cells without any significant difference on CD45RA expression and IFNγ or IL4 induction. In CD45RO expressing cattle, CD45RA and CD45RO expressions excluded each other, with dominant CD45RO (>90%) expression on gamma delta (γδ) followed by CD4+ (60%) but significantly higher CD45RA expression on CD8+ T cells (about 80%). Importantly, more than 80% of CD45RO expressing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells failed to produce IFNγ and IL-4; however, within the cytokine inducing cells, CD4+ T cells highly expressed CD45RO but those within CD8+ T cells mostly expressed CD45RA. Hence, CD45RO is not ubiquitously expressed in cattle, and rather than with memory phenotype, CD45RA/RO expression are more associated with distinct T cell subtypes.
Immune Checkpoint Proteins, Metabolism and Adhesion Molecules: Overlooked Determinants of CAR T-Cell Migration?
Authors: Simula Luca , Ollivier Emma , Icard Philippe , Donnadieu Emmanuel
Published: June 2022

Adoptive transfer of T cells genetically engineered to express chimeric antigen receptors (CAR) has demonstrated striking efficacy for the treatment of several hematological malignancies, including B-cell lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma. However, many patients still do not respond to this therapy or eventually relapse after an initial remission. In most solid tumors for which CAR T-cell therapy has been tested, efficacy has been very limited. In this context, it is of paramount importance to understand the mechanisms of tumor resistance to CAR T cells. Possible factors contributing to such resistance have been identified, including inherent CAR T-cell dysfunction, the presence of an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, and tumor-intrinsic factors. To control tumor growth, CAR T cells have to migrate actively enabling a productive conjugate with their targets. To date, many cells and factors contained within the tumor microenvironment have been reported to negatively control the migration of T cells and their ability to reach cancer cells. Recent evidence suggests that additional determinants, such as immune checkpoint proteins, cellular metabolism, and adhesion molecules, may modulate the motility of CAR T cells in tumors. Here, we review the potential impact of these determinants on CAR T-cell motility, and we discuss possible strategies to restore intratumoral T-cell migration with a special emphasis on approaches targeting these determinants.
The Right to Make Mistakes? The Limits to Adaptive Planning for Climate Change
Authors: Kirby Andrew
Published: June 2022

While the UN recognizes the right of individuals “to take risks and make mistakes”, there are reasons to question whether this right can be universal. In the context of a changing climate, it is imperative that individuals have access to a safe and sustainable environment; yet we must ask if this covenant is broken if people choose to place themselves in harm’s way. In its first part, this paper explores outcomes of climate change denial, manifested as continued migration to dangerous locations, and skepticism for adaptive strategies. The second half of the paper explores how localities can create a false narrative concerning risks, and asks whether communities also have a right to make mistakes?
Grey Correlation Analysis of Physical Properties and Evaluation Index of Graphene-Oxide-Modified Asphalt
Authors: Wu Fan , Xu Wenyuan , Zhang Fengfa , Wu He
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze the behavior of the performance index of graphene-oxide-modified asphalt. The deviation problem caused by determining graphene oxide content by single performance or several independent properties is also investigated. By testing the physical properties of graphene-oxide-modified asphalt with different admixtures (0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% by mass) in terms of viscosity, penetration, softening point, ductility, rheology, etc., it is concluded that the addition of graphene oxide could improve the individual properties of the matrix asphalt by 3% to 250%. Moreover, the grey correlation analysis method is used to calculate and analyze the correlation between the performance of graphene-oxide-modified asphalt and the content of graphene oxide. The latter has the most significant effect on the softening point, the penetration, and the 135 °C Brookfield viscosity of modified asphalt. The content of graphene oxide in graphene-oxide-modified asphalt is calculated based on the above three performance indexes, and an estimation error of less than 0.15% is observed. This proves that the new determination method is reasonable. Finally, by combining the macroscopic properties and the multi-factor statistical analysis, a reference basis is provided for the quality control of the graphene-oxide-modified asphalt.
Removal of Elemental Mercury from Simulated Flue Gas by a Copper-Based ZSM-5 Molecular Sieve
Authors: Zhang Yingbin , Zeng Jian , Xu Liang , Liu Xin , Li Liangxing , Wang Haining
Published: June 2022

A series of Cu-ZSM-5 molecular sieve adsorbents were prepared by the impregnation method. The experimental results revealed that the mercury removal efficiency of the 2.5 wt% CuCl2-ZSM-5 can reach up to 99%. Furthermore, both the crystal type and pore size distribution of the ZSM-5 molecular sieve remain the same after the process of copper-based active materials impregnated modification, and its specific surface area decreases as the load increases. Importantly, the surface of ZSM-5 modified by CuCl2 equips many more Cu-O functional groups, which are beneficial to the catalytic oxidation of mercury and can even oxidize Hg0 to Hg2+. The adsorption process strictly follows the Mars–Maessen reaction mechanism.
Neural-Network-Based Ultrasonic Inspection of Offshore Coated Concrete Specimens
Authors: Malikov Azamatjon , Kim Young , Yi Jin-Hak , Kim Jeongnam , Zhang Jiannan , Cho Younho
Published: June 2022

A thin layer of protective coating material is applied on the surface of offshore concrete structures to prevent its degradation, thereby extending the useful life of the structures. The main reasons for the reduction in the protective capability of coating layers are loss of adhesion to concrete and flattening of the coating layer wall. Usually, the state of the coating layer is monitored in the setting of water immersion using ultrasonic inspection methods, and the method of inspection still needs improvement in terms of speed and accuracy. In this study, the ultrasonic pulse echo method was used in a water immersion test of the coated specimens, and continuous wavelet transform (CWT) with complex Morlet wavelets was implemented to define the received waveforms’ time of flight and instantaneous center frequency. These allow one to evaluate the thickness of the coating layer during water immersion. Furthermore, phases of reflected echoes at CWT local peaks were computed using a combination of Hilbert transforms (HT) and wave parameters derived from CWT. In addition, three relative wave parameters of echoes were also used to train deep neural networks (DNN), including instantaneous center frequency ratio, CWT magnitude ratio, and phase difference. With the use of three relative waveform parameters of the DNN, the debonded layer detection accuracy of our method was 100%.
Stability of Polyethylene Glycol-Coated Copper Nanoparticles and Their Optical Properties
Authors: Okyere Deborah , Manso Ryan H. , Tong Xiao , Chen Jingyi
Published: June 2022

Oxidation is a corrosion reaction where the corroded metal forms an oxide. Prevention of oxidation at the nanoscale is critically important to retain the physicochemical properties of metal nanoparticles. In this work, we studied the stability of polyethylene glycol (PEG) coated copper nanoparticles (PEGylated CuNPs) against oxidation. The freshly-prepared PEGylated CuNPs mainly consist of metallic Cu which are quite stable in air although their surfaces are typically covered with a few monolayers of cuprous oxide. However, they are quickly oxidized in water due to the presence of protons that facilitate oxidation of the cuprous oxide to cupric oxide. PEG with carboxylic acid terminus could slightly delay the oxidation process compared to that with thiol terminus. It was found that a solvent with reducing power such as ethanol could greatly enhance the stability of PEGylated CuNPs by preventing further oxidation of the cuprous oxide to cupric oxide and thus retain the optical properties of CuNPs. The reducing environment also assists the galvanic replacement of these PEGylated CuNPs to form hollow nanoshells; however, they consist of ultra-small particle assemblies due to the co-reduction of gold precursor during the replacement reaction. As a result, these nanoshells do not exhibit strong optical properties in the near-infrared region. This study highlights the importance of solvent effects on PEGylated nonprecious metal nanoparticles against oxidation corrosion and its applications in preserving physicochemical properties of metallic nanostructures.
The Influence of Argon Plasma on Organic Perovskite MAPbI3 Film Doped with Inorganic Perovskite CsPbI3 Quantum Dots (QDs)
Authors: Lien Shui-Yang , Liu Shao-Yu , Chen Wen-Ray , Liu Chuan-Hsi , Sze Po-Wen , Wang Na-Fu , Huang Chien-Jung
Published: June 2022

In this study, the inorganic perovskite cesium lead triiodide (CsPbI3) quantum dots (QDs) produced by hot-injection method were added into the hybrid perovskite methylamine lead triiodide (CH3NH3PbI3; MAPbI3) to form composite perovskite film. It is not easy for argon (Ar) to react with perovskite. Therefore, argon plasma was used to optimize the properties of the surface. However, methylamine lead triiodide molecular will be degraded by excessive wattage. Therefore, the influence of plasma power acting on composite perovskite film was investigated. The experimental results show that the light absorption capacity can be increased by argon plasma power of 140 watt (W) acting on the surface of films because organic impurities are removed and surface morphology of film is changed.
Does Systemic Chemotherapy Influence Skeletal Growth of Young Osteosarcoma Patients as a Treatment-Related Late Adverse Effect?
Authors: Hoshi Manabu , Oebisu Naoto , Iwai Tadashi , Ban Yoshitaka , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: June 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of systemic chemotherapy on the skeletal growth of young osteosarcoma patients as a treatment-related late adverse effect. We reviewed the height data of 20 osteosarcoma patients (13 males and 7 females) aged ≤18 years. The average (±SD) age at diagnosis was 14.5 (±3.3) years. The average follow-up interval was 89.6 months. After wide resection of the affected bones, reconstruction with tumor prostheses and auto-bone grafting was carried out in 11 and 9 cases, respectively. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was calculated to evaluate the association between actual and predicted (using Paley’s multiplier method) heights. Z-scores were used to compare the initial and final heights with the Japanese national growth curve. Actual and predicted heights were correlated according to Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R = 0.503). Z-analysis showed that statistical significance (p = 0.04) was noted for the height data Z-scores of patients between ≤10 years and >10 years at the final follow-up. Systemic chemotherapy did not reduce skeletal growth in young osteosarcoma patients as a late adverse effect based on two different evaluation methods. However, patients aged ≤10 years at diagnosis may develop a short stature after systemic chemotherapy.
Weight Gain after Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Goyal Archita , Milner Gabrielle E. , Cimino-Mathews Ashley , Visvanathan Kala , Wolff Antonio C. , Sharma Dipali , Sheng Jennifer Y.
Published: June 2022

Obesity following breast cancer diagnosis is associated with poor overall survival. Understanding weight trajectories will help inform breast cancer survivors at greater risk of weight gain, and those who would benefit from earlier anti-obesity interventions. We performed a retrospective chart review of women from the Breast Cancer Program Longitudinal Repository (BCPLR) at Johns Hopkins diagnosed with hormone receptor-positive Stage I-III breast cancer from 2010 to 2020. We investigated obesity (measured by body mass index [BMI]) over time, patient and tumor characteristics, as well as treatment and recurrence. We observed a significant ≥5% increase in BMI from diagnosis to most recent follow-up (p = 0.009), particularly among those who were overweight at diagnosis (p = 0.003). Additionally, among those up to 5 years since diagnosis, there was a significant association between experiencing a ≥0.1 kg/m2 increase per year since diagnosis and baseline BMI status (p = 0.009). A ≥0.6 kg/m2 decrease in BMI was observed for participants with obesity at diagnosis (p = 0.006). Our study highlights (i) the significant burden of obesity in women with a history of breast cancer and (ii) higher risks for increases in BMI and shifts in class of obesity among women who are overweight at diagnosis.
End-to-End Deep Reinforcement Learning Control for HVAC Systems in Office Buildings
Authors: Zhong Xuyang , Zhang Zhiang , Zhang Ruijun , Zhang Chenlu
Published: June 2022

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is a major energy consumer in office buildings, and its operation is critical for indoor thermal comfort. While previous studies have indicated that reinforcement learning control can improve HVAC energy efficiency, they did not provide enough information about end-to-end control (i.e., from raw observations to ready-to-implement control signals) for centralized HVAC systems in multizone buildings due to the limitations of reinforcement learning methods or the test buildings being single zones with independent HVAC systems. This study developed a model-free end-to-end dynamic HVAC control method based on a recently proposed deep reinforcement learning framework to control the centralized HVAC system of a multizone office building. By using the deep neural network, the proposed control method could directly take measurable parameters, including weather and indoor environment conditions, as inputs and control indoor temperature setpoints at a supervisory level. In some test cases, the proposed control method could successfully learn a dynamic control policy to reduce HVAC energy consumption by 12.8% compared with the baseline case using conventional control methods, without compromising thermal comfort. However, an over-fitting problem was noted, indicating that future work should first focus on the generalization of deep reinforcement learning.
T2*-Mapping of Knee Cartilage in Response to Mechanical Loading in Alpine Skiing: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Schütz Uwe , Martensen Thomas , Kleiner Sebastian , Dreyhaupt Jens , Wegener Martin , Wilke Hans-Joachim , Beer Meinrad
Published: June 2022

Purpose: This study intends to establish a study protocol for the quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (qMRI) measurement of biochemical changes in knee cartilage induced by mechanical stress during alpine skiing with the implementation of new spring-loaded ski binding. Methods: The MRI-knee-scans (T2*-mapping) of four skiers using a conventional and a spring-loaded ski binding system, alternately, were acquired before and after 1 h/4 h of exposure to alpine skiing. Intrachondral T2* analysis on 60 defined regions of interest in the femorotibial knee joint (FTJ) was conducted. Intra- and interobserver variability and relative changes in the cartilage T2* signal and thickness were calculated. Results: A relevant decrease in the T2* time after 4 h of alpine skiing could be detected at the majority of measurement times. After overnight recovery, the T2* time increased above baseline. Although, the total T2* signal in the superficial cartilage layers was higher than that in the lower ones, no differences between the layers in the T2* changes could be detected. The central and posterior cartilage zones of the FTJ responded with a stronger T2* alteration than the anterior zones. Conclusions: For the first time, a quantitative MRI study setting could be established to detect early knee cartilage reaction due to alpine skiing. Relevant changes in the T2* time and thus in the intrachondral collagen microstructure and the free water content were observed.
Lung Sonography in Critical Care Medicine
Authors: Breitkopf Robert , Treml Benedikt , Rajsic Sasa
Published: June 2022

During the last five decades, lung sonography has developed into a core competency of intensive care medicine. It is a highly accurate bedside tool, with clear diagnostic criteria for most causes of respiratory failure (pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and pleural effusion). It helps in distinguishing a hypovolemic from a cardiogenic, obstructive, or distributive shock. In addition to diagnostics, it can also be used to guide ventilator settings, fluid administration, and even antimicrobial therapy, as well as to assess diaphragmatic function. Moreover, it provides risk-reducing guidance during invasive procedures, e.g., intubation, thoracocentesis, or percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. The recent pandemic has further increased its scope of clinical applications in the management of COVID-19 patients, from their initial presentation at the emergency department, during their hospitalization, and after their discharge into the community. Despite its increasing use, a consensus on education, assessment of competencies, and certification is still missing. Deep learning and artificial intelligence are constantly developing in medical imaging, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound enables new diagnostic perspectives. This review summarizes the clinical aspects of lung sonography in intensive care medicine and provides an overview about current training modalities, diagnostic limitations, and future developments.
Pilot Study of a New Mandibular Advancement Device
Authors: Segù Marzia , Campagnoli Giovanna , Di Blasio Marco , Santagostini Antonio , Pollis Matteo , Levrini Luca
Published: June 2022

This study was conducted to determine the efficacy of a customized mandibular advancement device (MAD) in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Eight patients (M = 3; F = 5; mean age = 56.3 ± 9.4) with a diagnosis of OSA confirmed by polysomnography (PSG) were recruited on the basis of the following inclusion criteria: apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) > 5, age between 18 and 75 years, body mass index (BMI) < 25, and PSG data available at baseline (T0). All were treated with the new NOA® MAD by OrthoApnea (NOA®) for at least 3 months; PSG with NOA in situ was performed after 3 months of treatment (T1). The following parameters were calculated at T0 and T1: AHI, supine AHI, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), percentage of recording time spent with oxygen saturation <90% (SpO2 < 90%), and mean oxygen desaturation (MeanSpO2%). Data were submitted for statistical analysis. The baseline values were AHI = 21.33 ± 14.79, supine AHI = 35.64 ± 12.80, ODI = 17.51 ± 13.5, SpO2 < 90% = 7.82 ± 17.08, and MeanSpO2% = 93.45 ± 1.86. Four patients had mild OSA (5 > AHI < 15), one moderate OSA (15 > AHI < 30), and three severe OSA (AHI > 30). After treatment with NOA®, statistically significant improvements in AHI (8.6 ± 4.21) and supine AHI (11.21 ± 7.26) were recorded. OrthoApnea NOA® could be an effective alternative in the treatment of OSA: the device improved the PSG parameters assessed.
Shear Bond Strength of Ah26 to Human Dentin Treated with Dimethyl Sulfoxide (Dmso)
Authors: Dimopoulos Fotis , Kodonas Konstantinos , Gogos Christos
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine the bond strength of AH26 to human coronal dentin exposed to DMSO. A total of 70 dentin specimens were equally divided into two groups. Each dentin surface was pre-treated with 2 mL of 2.5% NaOCl, 3 mL of EDTA 17%, and distilled water. One group was finally rinsed with 50% DMSO. Following the AH26 application, the bond strength was tested by subjecting the samples to a shear load at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min using universal testing equipment. The results according to paired samples t-test indicated that there was a statistically insignificant difference between the two groups. Therefore, DMSO had no effect on the bond strength of AH26 root sealer to dentin.
Using Breast Tissue Information and Subject-Specific Finite-Element Models to Optimize Breast Compression Parameters for Digital Mammography
Authors: Chang Tien-Yu , Wu Jay , Liu Pei-Yuan , Liu Yan-Lin , Luzhbin Dmytro , Lin Hsien-Chou
Published: June 2022

Digital mammography has become a first-line diagnostic tool for clinical breast cancer screening due to its high sensitivity and specificity. Mammographic compression force is closely associated with image quality and patient comfort. Therefore, optimizing breast compression parameters is essential. Subjects were recruited for digital mammography and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) within a month. Breast MRI images were used to calculate breast volume and volumetric breast density (VBD) and construct finite element models. Finite element analysis was performed to simulate breast compression. Simulated compressed breast thickness (CBT) was compared with clinical CBT and the relationships between compression force, CBT, breast volume, and VBD were established. Simulated CBT had a good linear correlation with the clinical CBT (R2 = 0.9433) at the clinical compression force. At 10, 12, 14, and 16 daN, the mean simulated CBT of the breast models was 5.67, 5.13, 4.66, and 4.26 cm, respectively. Simulated CBT was positively correlated with breast volume (r > 0.868) and negatively correlated with VBD (r < –0.338). The results of this study provides a subject-specific and evidence-based suggestion of mammographic compression force for radiographers considering image quality and patient comfort.
A Modified RL-IGWO Algorithm for Dynamic Weapon-Target Assignment in Frigate Defensing UAV Swarms
Authors: Nan Mingyu , Zhu Yifan , Kang Li , Wang Tao , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2022

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms have significant advantages in terms of cost, number, and intelligence, constituting a serious threat to traditional frigate air defense systems. Ship-borne short-range anti-air weapons undertake terminal defense tasks against UAV swarms. In traditional air defense fire control systems, a dynamic weapon-target assignment (DWTA) is disassembled into several static weapon target assignments (SWTAs), but the relationship between DWTAs and SWTAs is not supported by effective analytical proof. Based on the combat scenario between a frigate and UAV swarms, a model-based reinforcement learning framework was established, and a DWAT problem was disassembled into several static combination optimization (SCO) problems by means of the dynamic programming method. In addition, several variable neighborhood search (VNS) operators and an opposition-based learning (OBL) operator were designed to enhance the global search ability of the original Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), thereby solving SCO problems. An improved grey wolf algorithm based on reinforcement learning (RL-IGWO) was established for solving DWTA problems in the defense of frigates against UAV swarms. The experimental results show that RL-IGWO had obvious advantages in both the decision making time and solution quality.
Analytical Model for Phase Synchronization of a Pair of Vertical-Axis Wind Turbines
Authors: Furukawa Masaru , Hara Yutaka , Jodai Yoshifumi
Published: June 2022

The phase-synchronized rotation of a pair of closely spaced vertical-axis wind turbines has been found in wind tunnel experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. During phase synchronization, the two wind turbine rotors rotate inversely at the same mean angular velocity. The blades of the two rotors pass through the gap between the turbines almost simultaneously, while the angular velocities oscillate with a small amplitude. A pressure drop in the gap region, explained by Bernoulli’s law, has been proposed to generate the interaction torque required for phase synchronization. In this study, an analytical model of the interaction torques was developed. In our simulations using the model, (i) phase synchronization occurred, (ii) the angular velocities of the rotors oscillated during the phase synchronization, and (iii) the oscillation period became shorter and the amplitude became larger as the interaction became stronger. These observations agree qualitatively with the experiments and CFD simulations. Phase synchronization was found to occur even for a pair of rotors with slightly different torque characteristics. Our simulation also shows that the induced flow velocities influence the dependence of the angular velocities during phase synchronization on the rotation directions of the rotors and the distance between the rotors.
Wind Power Interval Prediction with Adaptive Rolling Error Correction Based on PSR-BLS-QR
Authors: Ran Xu , Xu Chang , Ma Lei , Xue Feifei
Published: June 2022

Effective prediction of wind power output intervals can capture the trend of uncertain wind output power in the form of probability, which not only can avoid the impact of randomness and volatility on grid security, but also can provide supportable information for grid dispatching and grid planning. To address the problem of the low accuracy of traditional wind power interval prediction, a new interval prediction method of wind power is proposed based on PSR-BLS-QR with adaptive rolling error correction. First, one-dimensional wind power data are mapped to high-dimensional space by phase space reconstruction (PSR) to achieve data reconstruction and the input and output of the broad learning system (BLS) model are constructed. Second, the training set and the test set are divided according to the input and output data. The BLS model is trained by the training set and the initial power interval of training data is constructed by quantile regression (QR). Then, the error distribution of nonparametric kernel density estimation is constructed at different power interval segments of the interval upper and lower boundaries, respectively, and the corresponding error-corrected power is found. Next, the optimal correction index is used as the objective function to determine the optimal error correction power for different power interval segments of the interval upper and lower boundaries. Finally, a test set is used for testing the performance of the proposed method. Three wind power datasets from different regions are used to prove that the proposed method can improve the average prediction accuracy by about 6–14% with the narrower interval width compared with the traditional interval prediction methods.
Study of Key Technology of Gob-Side Entry Retention in a High Gas Outburst Coal Seam in the Karst Mountain Area
Authors: Ma Zhenqian , Zhang Dongyue , Cao Yunqin , Yang Wei , Xu Biao
Published: June 2022

In the gob-side entry retaining by roof cutting (GERRC) technique, pressure is offloaded via directional roof cutting, and a roadway is automatically formed due to the ground pressure and rock-breaking expansion. To improve the application of the theory and technical system of GERRC in the Karst area in Southwest China, this research studies the key technology of GERRC in a high gas outburst coal seam, based on the engineering background of the 39114 working face of the Honglin coal mine. According to the geological conditions of the 39114 working face, by means of formula calculation, UDEC numerical modeling, and on-site drilling peeping, the optimal roof-cutting parameters suitable for the 39114 working face were determined: the roof cutting height was 7 m, the roof cutting angle was 15°, and the spacing of pre-splitting blasting holes was 600 mm. Additionally, the above roof-cutting parameters have achieved good results in the engineering practices of the 39114 transportation roadway, which shows that the technology of GERRC is feasible in high gas outburst mines and achieves the goal of safe and efficient mining.
Adaptive Current Control for Grid-Connected Inverter with Dynamic Recurrent Fuzzy-Neural-Network
Authors: Wang Yeqin , Yang Yan , Liang Rui , Geng Tao , Zhang Weixing
Published: June 2022

The grid-connected inverter is a vital power electronic equipment connecting distributed generation (DG) systems to the utility grid. The quality of the grid-connected current is directly related to the safe and stable operation of the grid-connected system. This study successfully constructed a robust control system for a grid-connected inverter through a dynamic recurrent fuzzy-neural-network imitating sliding-mode control (DRFNNISMC) framework. Firstly, the dynamic model considering system uncertainties of the grid-connected inverter is described for the global integral sliding-mode control (GISMC) design. In order to overcome the chattering phenomena and the dependence of the dynamic information in the GISMC, a model-free dynamic recurrent fuzzy-neural-network (DRFNN) is proposed as a major controller to approximate the GISMC law without the extra compensator. In the DRFNN, a Petri net with varied threshold is incorporated to fire the rules, and only the parameters of the fired rules are adapted to alleviate the computational workload. Moreover, the network is designed with internal recurrent loops to improve the dynamic mapping capability considering the uncertainties in the control system. In addition, to assure the parameter convergence in the adaptation and the stability of the designed control system, the adaptation laws for the parameters of the DRFNN are deduced by the projection theorem and Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, the experimental comparisons with the GISMC scheme are performed in an inverter prototype to verify the superior performance of the proposed DRFNNISMC framework for the grid-connected current control.
Special Issue “Industry and Tertiary Sectors towards Clean Energy Transition”
Authors: Martini Chiara , Toro Claudia
Published: June 2022

The Special Issue “Industry and Tertiary Sectors towards Clean Energy Transition” is focused on technical, financial and policy-related aspects linked to the transition of industrial and services sectors towards energy saving and decarbonisation. These different aspects are interrelated, and as such, they have been analysed with an interdisciplinary approach combining economic and technical information. Collecting and analysing quantitative data would allow researchers to better understand the clean energy transition process, and how the international and national regulatory and policy framework are contributing to it. The papers within this Special Issue focus on energy efficiency and clean energy key technologies, renewable sources, energy management and monitoring systems, energy policies and regulations, and economic and financial aspects.
Simulation of the Thermal Runaway Onset in Li-Ion Cells—Influence of Cathode Materials and Operating Conditions
Authors: Cianciullo Martina , Vilardi Giorgio , Mazzarotta Barbara , Bubbico Roberto
Published: June 2022

Li-ion batteries are already being used in several applications, from portable devices to the automotive industry, and they represent a promising option also for other critical uses, such as in the storage of energy from renewable sources. However, two of the main concerns that still hinder their massive introduction in these further areas, are their safety and reliability. Depending on cell characteristics and operating conditions, the heat generated within the cell can exceed that dissipated from its surface, and the cell will fail, possibly with catastrophic consequences. To identify the hazardous working conditions of a cell, a simulation model including the main exothermic reactions was set up to investigate the onset of thermal runaway in several Li-ion cell configurations under various operating conditions. The behavior of four different cathodes under thermal abuse and the influence of external factors such as the environmental temperature and the cooling system efficiency were assessed. It was found that among those investigated, the lithium iron phosphate cathode is characterized by a higher thermal stability and that an efficient superficial heat exchange can prevent thermal runaway in most of the cases.
Comparison of Spectroscopy-Based Methods and Chemometrics to Confirm Classification of Specialty Coffees
Authors: Belchior Verônica , Botelho Bruno G. , Franca Adriana S.
Published: June 2022

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) sensory analysis protocol is the methodology that is used to classify specialty coffees. However, because the sensory analysis is sensitive to the taster’s training, cognitive psychology, and physiology, among other parameters, the feasibility of instrumental approaches has been recently studied for complementing such analyses. Spectroscopic methods, mainly near infrared (NIR) and mid infrared (FTIR—Fourier Transform Infrared), have been extensively employed for food quality authentication. In view of the aforementioned, we compared NIR and FTIR to distinguish different qualities and sensory characteristics of specialty coffee samples in the present study. Twenty-eight green coffee beans samples were roasted (in duplicate), with roasting conditions following the SCA protocol for sensory analysis. FTIR and NIR were used to analyze the ground and roasted coffee samples, and the data then submitted to statistical analysis to build up PLS models in order to confirm the quality classifications. The PLS models provided good predictability and classification of the samples. The models were able to accurately predict the scores of specialty coffees. In addition, the NIR spectra provided relevant information on chemical bonds that define specialty coffee in association with sensory aspects, such as the cleanliness of the beverage.
Effects of Frying Conditions on Volatile Composition and Odor Characteristics of Fried Pepper (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.) Oil
Authors: Liu Ruijia , Qi Nan , Sun Jie , Chen Haitao , Zhang Ning , Sun Baoguo
Published: June 2022

Fried pepper (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.) oil (FPO) is widely used in Chinese cuisine because of its unique aroma. To investigate the effects of different frying temperatures and different frying times on the volatile composition and odor characteristics of FPOs, descriptive sensory analysis (DSA), solvent-assisted flavor evaporation–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SAFE–GC–MS) and electronic nose (E-nose) were used to analyze the FPOs (FPO1–FPO4 represented the pepper oil fried at 110 °C, 120 °C, 130 °C, and 140 °C; FPO5–FPO7 represented the pepper oil fried for 10 min, 20 min and 30 min). The results showed that FPO3 and FPO6 had strong citrus-like and floral aromas and exhibited significant advantages in sensory attributes. A total of 46 volatile compounds were identified by SAFE–GC–MS; among them, FPO3 and FPO6 had a higher volatile compound content. β-Caryophyllene was detected in only FPO3 and FPO6; linalool was higher in FPO3 and FPO6, which might cause them to exhibit stronger floral and citrus-like aromas. The presence of (2E,4E)-2,4-decanedienal would be one of the reasons for the strong fatty aroma exhibited in FPO4 and FPO7. FPO3 and FPO6 were associated with citrus-like and floral aromas by partial least squares regression (PLSR) analysis, which agreed with the sensory evaluation results.
Effects of Monascus on Proteolysis, Lipolysis, and Volatile Compounds of Camembert-Type Cheese during Ripening
Authors: Zhang Shuwen , Wang Tong , Zhang Yumeng , Song Bo , Pang Xiaoyang , Lv Jiaping
Published: June 2022

In order to improve the flavor and taste of Camembert cheese, the use of Monascus as an adjunct starter for the production of Camembert-type cheese was studied to investigate its effect on the proteolysis, lipolysis, and volatile compounds during ripening for 40 days. The Camembert cheese without Monascus was used as a control. The results showed that proteolytic and lipolytic activities increased to a certain extent. The addition of Monascus promoted primary and secondary proteolysis, due to the release of some proteases by Monascus. Aspartic, Threonine, Glutamic, Glycine, Methione, Isoleucine, Phenyalanine, and Lysine contents in experimental group (R) cheese were significantly higher than those in control group (W) cheeses. In addition, the free amino acid and fatty acid contents were also affected. The identification of flavor components using gas-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) showed that 2-undecone, 2-tridecanone, phenylethyl alcohol, butanediol (responsible for the production of flowery and honey-like aroma), ethyl hexanoate, ethyl octanoate, and ethyl citrate (fruit-like aroma) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the experimental cheeses than in the control. The contents of 2-nonanone, 2-octanone and 2-decanone (showing milky flavor), and 1-octene-3 alcohol with typical mushroom-like flavor were lower than the control.
Statistical Properties of Estimators of the RMSD Item Fit Statistic
Authors: Robitzsch Alexander
Published: June 2022

In this article, statistical properties of the root mean square deviation (RMSD) item fit statistic in item response models are studied. It is shown that RMSD estimates will indicate even misfit for items whose parametric assumption of the item response function is correct (i.e., fitting items) if some item response functions in the test are misspecified. Moreover, it is demonstrated that the RMSD values of misfitting and fitting items depend on the proportion of misfitting items. We propose three alternative bias-corrected RMSD estimators that reduce the bias for fitting items. However, these alternative estimators provide slightly negatively biased estimates for misfitting items compared to the originally proposed RMSD statistic. In the numerical experiments, we study the case of a misspecified one-parameter logistic item response model and the behavior of the RMSD statistic if differential item functioning occurs.
Self-Healing Materials-Based Electronic Skin: Mechanism, Development and Applications
Authors: Chen Jingjie , Wang Lei , Xu Xiangou , Liu Guming , Liu Haoyan , Qiao Yuxuan , Chen Jialin , Cao Siwei , Cha Quanbin , Wang Tengjiao
Published: June 2022

Electronic skin (e-skin) has brought us great convenience and revolutionized our way of life. However, due to physical or chemical aging and damage, they will inevitably be degraded gradually with practical operation. The emergence of self-healing materials enables e-skins to achieve repairment of cracks and restoration of mechanical function by themselves, meeting the requirements of the era for building durable and self-healing electronic devices. This work reviews the current development of self-healing e-skins with various application scenarios, including motion sensor, human–machine interaction and soft robots. The new application fields and present challenges are discussed; meanwhile, thinkable strategies and prospects of future potential applications are conferenced.
Do General Practitioners in a Visiting Medical Officer Arrangement Improve the Perceived Quality of Care of Rural and Remote Patients? A Qualitative Study in Australia
Authors: Sutarsa I Nyoman , Kasim Rosny , Steward Ben , Bain-Donohue Suzanne , Slimings Claudia , Hall Dykgraaf Sally , Barnard Amanda
Published: June 2022

Background: In rural and remote Australia, general practitioners (GPs) provide care across the continuum from primary to secondary care, often in Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) arrangements with a local hospital. However, little is known about the role of GP-VMOs in improving the perceived quality of care and health outcomes for rural and remote communities. Methods: We collected qualitative data from three GP-VMOs (all aged >55 years) and 10 patients (all aged over 65 years) in three local health districts of New South Wales, Australia. Thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted between October 2020 and February 2021. We employed thematic analysis to identify key roles of GP-VMOs in improving the perceived quality of care and health outcomes of rural and remote patients. Results: Our study advances the current understanding regarding the role of GP-VMOs in improving the perceived quality of services and health outcomes of rural and remote patients. Key roles of GP-VMOs in improving the perceived quality of care include promoting the continuity of care and integrated health services, cultivating trust from local communities, and enhancing the satisfaction of patients. Conclusions: GP-VMOs work across primary and secondary care creating better linkages and promoting the continuity of care for rural and remote communities. Employing GP-VMOs in rural hospitals enables the knowledge and sensitivity gained from their ongoing interactions with patients in primary care to be effectively utilised in the delivery of hospital care.
COVID-19 Vaccine Misperceptions in a Community Sample of Adults Aged 18–49 Years in Australia
Authors: Pickles Kristen , Copp Tessa , Meyerowitz-Katz Gideon , Dodd Rachael H. , Bonner Carissa , Nickel Brooke , Steffens Maryke S. , Seale Holly , Cvejic Erin , Taba Melody , Chau Brian , McCaffery Kirsten J.
Published: June 2022

Central to a successful population vaccination program is high uptake of vaccines. However, COVID-19 vaccine uptake may be impeded by beliefs based on misinformation. We sought to understand the prevalence and nature of misbeliefs about COVID-19 vaccines, and identify associated factors, shortly after commencement of Australia’s national vaccine rollout. A cross-sectional survey was administered to unvaccinated young adults (n = 2050) in Australia aged 18–49 years (mean age 33 years), 13 July–21 August 2021. This sample was previously under-represented in COVID-19 research but shown to have less willingness to vaccinate. Two thirds of participants agreed with at least one misbelief item. Misperceptions about COVID-19 vaccines were found to be significantly associated with lower health literacy, less knowledge about vaccines, lower perceived personal risk of COVID-19, greater endorsement of conspiracy beliefs, and lower confidence and trust in government and scientific institutions. Misbeliefs were more common in participants with less educational attainment, in younger age groups, and in males, as per previous research. Understanding determinants and barriers to vaccination uptake, such as knowledge and beliefs based on misinformation, can help to shape effective public health communication and inform debunking efforts at this critical time and in the future.
The Occurrence of the Sensory Processing Disorder in Children Depending on the Type and Time of Delivery: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ptak Agnieszka , Miękczyńska Diana , Dębiec-Bąk Agnieszka , Stefańska Małgorzata
Published: June 2022

Over recent years, the concept of Sensory Integration has become more popular. Knowledge about Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) also has grown, and it is often discussed in scientific research. Sensory disturbances can cause problems in learning and behaviour of children in whom no medical diagnosis has been made. These are healthy children regarding the environment, but their behaviour is often described as strange in the meaning not appropriate/not adequate to the situation. The aim of the study was to analyse if there is a correlation between occurrence of SPD and the time or the way of delivery. Participants were 75 children, ages 5–9 years old. Children born prematurely (n = 25), and children delivered by caesarean section (C-section) (n = 25) were compared to the ones born on time by natural means (n = 25). Research was based on a questionnaire filled by children’s parents. Descriptive results and percentage calculations were compared. SPD were detected among 84% of pre-borns and among 80% of children delivered by C-section and it is statistically significant. Both groups are at higher risk of Sensory Processing Disorder than those delivered on time by vaginal birth. Due to the results, the time and the way of the delivery are the factors that affect Sensory Processing Disorder.
Mental Models of Illness during the Early Months of the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Harris Mary Grace , Wood Emma , Anggoro Florencia K.
Published: June 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic and its profound global effects may be changing the way we think about illness. In summer 2020, 120 American adults were asked to diagnose symptoms of COVID-19, a cold, and cancer, and to answer questions related to the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, time-course, and transmission of each disease. Results showed that participants were more likely to correctly diagnose COVID-19 (91% accuracy) compared to a cold (58% accuracy) or cancer (52% accuracy). We also found that 7% of participants misdiagnosed cold symptoms as COVID-19, and, interestingly, over twice as many participants (16%) misdiagnosed symptoms of cancer as COVID-19. Our findings suggest a distinct mental model for COVID-19 compared to other illnesses. Further, the prevalence of COVID-19 in everyday discourse—especially early in the pandemic—may lead to biased responding, similar to errors in medical diagnosis that result from physicians’ expertise. We also discuss how the focus of public-health messaging on prevention of COVID-19 might contribute to participants’ mental models.
Nonlinear Relationships among the Natural Environment, Health, and Sociodemographic Characteristics across US Counties
Authors: Bonnell Levi N. , Littenberg Benjamin
Published: June 2022

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the nonlinear relationships between natural amenities and health at the intersection of sociodemographic characteristics among primary care patients with chronic conditions. Methods: We used survey data from 3409 adults across 119 US counties. PROMIS-29 mental and physical health summary scores were the primary outcomes. The natural environment (measured using the County USDA Natural Amenities Scale (NAS)) was the primary predictor. Piecewise spline regression models were used to explore the relationships between NAS and health at the intersection of sociodemographic factors. Results: We identified a nonlinear relationship between NAS and health. Low-income individuals had a negative association with health with each increase in NAS in high-amenity areas only. However, White individuals had a stronger association with health with each increase in NAS in low-amenity areas. Conclusions: In areas with low natural amenities, more amenities are associated with better physical and mental health, but only for advantaged populations. Meanwhile, for disadvantaged populations, an increase in amenities in high-amenity areas is associated with decreases in mental and physical health. Understanding how traditionally advantaged populations utilize the natural environment could provide insight into the mechanisms driving these disparities.