bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-Dependent Charge Carrier Transport with Hall Effect in Organic Semiconductors for Langevin and Non-Langevin Systems
Authors: Morab Seema , Sundaram Manickam Minakshi , Pivrikas Almantas
Published: December 2022

The time-dependent charge carrier transport and recombination processes in low-mobility organic semiconductor diodes are obtained through numerical simulations using the finite element method (FEM). The application of a Lorentz force across the diode alters the charge transport process leading to the Hall effect. In this contribution, the Hall effect parameters, such as the Hall voltage and charge carrier concentration with varying magnetic fields, are computed for both Langevin and non-Langevin type recombination processes. The results indicate the charge carrier concentration within the diode for the Langevin system is about seven and fourteen times less while the maximum amount of extracted charge is nearly five and ten times less than that in the non-Langevin system of 0.01 and 0.001, respectively. The Hall voltage values obtained for the steady-state case are similar to the non-Langevin system of ββL=0.01. However, the values obtained for the Langevin and non-Langevin systems of ββL=1 and 0.001 exhibit anomalies. The implications of these findings advance the understanding of the charge transport and Hall effect measurements in organic semiconductors that underpins the device’s performance.
Evaluation of S- and M-Proteins Expressed in Escherichia coli and HEK Cells for Serological Detection of Antibodies in Response to SARS-CoV-2 Infections and mRNA-Based Vaccinations
Authors: Schwarze Mandy , Luo Ji , Brakel Alexandra , Krizsan Andor , Lakowa Nicole , Grünewald Thomas , Lehmann Claudia , Wolf Johannes , Borte Stephan , Milkovska-Stamenova Sanja , Gabert Jörg , Scholz Markus , Hoffmann Ralf
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the IgG and IgA antibody response against recombinant S1 and receptor binding domains (RBD) of the spike (S-) protein and the membrane (M-) protein using a set of 115 serum samples collected from patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 in Germany before April 2021 using protein and peptide ELISA. As S1- and RBD-proteins expressed in Escherichia coli provided poor sensitivities in ELISA, they were replaced by proteins expressed in HEK cells. The RBD-ELISA provided a sensitivity of 90.6% (N = 85) for samples collected from patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections more than 14 days after symptom onset or a positive PCR test. In population-based controls, the specificity was 97.9% (N = 94). In contrast, the sensitivities were only 41.2% and 72.6% for M- and N-proteins, respectively, while the specificities were 88.5% and 100%, respectively. Considering also 20 samples collected during the first two weeks of symptom onset or PCR confirmation, the sensitivity of RBD- and N-protein ELISA decreased to 82.6% and 72.6%, respectively. The combination of two data sets, i.e., N- and RBD-, N- and M-, or RBD- and M-proteins increased the sensitivity to 85.8%, 77.9%, and 87.8%, respectively. Peptide mapping mostly confirmed epitopes previously reported for S1- and M-proteins, but they were only recognized by a few samples already tested positive in the corresponding protein ELISA indicating that peptide-based assays will not improve the diagnostic sensitivity.
Investigation of Parasitic Nematodes Detected in the Feces of Wild Carnivores in the Eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Chen Qilu , Wang Xu , Li Chunyang , Wu Weiping , Zhang Kaige , Deng Xueying , Xie Yi , Guan Yayi
Published: December 2022

Wildlife shares grazing areas with herders in the eastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and humans can be infected by zoonotic nematodes through direct contact with animals or contaminated water. In this study, fecal samples (n = 296) from wild carnivores were collected to explore the infection rate and molecular genetic characteristics of nematodes by stratified random sampling in the survey areas. Host species and the nematodes they carried were then identified using 16S rRNA and 18S rRNA gene sequencing, respectively. Statistical analysis, neutrality tests, genetic diversity analysis and Bayesian inferred trees were performed to complete the study. In total, 10 species of nematodes were detected in 240 feces from six species of carnivores identified (including dominant Vulpes ferrilata and Vulpes vulpes), namely Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxascaris sp., Crenosoma vulpis, Parapharyngodon bainae, Oesophagostomum muntiacum, Aspiculuris tetraptera, Mastophorus muris, Nematodirus spathiger, Muellerius capillaris, and Molineus patens. Among these nematodes, U. stenocephala (35.83%, 86/240) and Toxascaris sp. (14.58%, 35/240) were detected at higher rates than the other nematodes (χ2 = 516.909, p < 0.05). Of 17 and 18 haplotypes were found based on the ITS1 gene for U. stenocephala and nad1 gene for Toxascaris sp., respectively. For the first time, using molecular methods, we report the infection of V. ferrilata by U. stenocephala, a potential zoonotic parasite, and suggest Toxascaris sp. may be a newly discovered nematode that lives within the fox intestine.
Public Perceptions of Community Pharmacy-Based Naloxone Services: A National Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Hohmann Lindsey A. , Krauss Zach , Patel Jitisha , Marley Grace T.
Published: December 2022

Little is known about the general public’s perceptions regarding community pharmacist-delivered naloxone services at the national level. Accordingly, the purpose of this study was to describe the US general public’s awareness, knowledge, beliefs, comfort, perceived barriers, abilities, and communication preferences related to community pharmacy-based naloxone services. A national, online cross-sectional survey was conducted in September 2021 among US adults ≥18 years recruited via Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk). Primary outcome measures were assessed via 5-point Likert-type scales, including: (1) naloxone awareness and knowledge; (2) naloxone beliefs; (3) comfort with pharmacist-provided naloxone; (4) perceived barriers to pharmacy-based naloxone; (5) opioid overdose competencies, concerns, and readiness; and (6) preferred pharmacist-patient naloxone communication strategy. Analyses included descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to assess predictors of preferred communication strategies. Of 301 respondents, 82.1% were White, 48.8% female, and mean 43 years. Eighty-five percent were unaware of pharmacy-provided naloxone and mean [SD] knowledge score was low (29.3% [16.8]). Mean [SD] beliefs (3.78 [0.61]) and comfort (3.70 [0.54]) were positive, while perceived barriers were low/neutral (2.93 [0.78]). For communication, 54% preferred general advertisement, 32.9% universal offer, and 13.3% targeted offer. The odds of preferring a general advertisement or universal offer over a targeted offer increased with greater awareness (AOR:4.52; p = 0.003) and comfort (AOR:3.79; p = 0.003), and decreased with greater competence (AOR:0.35; p = 0.001). Although awareness and knowledge regarding community pharmacy-based naloxone services was low, beliefs and comfort were positive and perceived barriers were low/neutral. General or universal offers of naloxone were preferred over targeted approaches. Future studies should test the impact of communication strategies on naloxone uptake.
Systematic Review of Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis) Preparations for the Facilitation of Parturition
Authors: Hutcherson Timothy C. , Cieri-Hutcherson Nicole E. , Lycouras Maggie M. , Koehler Dharmista , Mortimer Madison , Schaefer Christina J. , Costa Olivia S. , Bohlmann Ashley L. , Singhal Mudit K.
Published: December 2022

Background: The objective of this systematic review was to characterize the efficacy and safety of evening primrose (EP) for facilitation of parturition in peripartum persons. Methods: This search sought records related to the efficacy and safety of EP preparations to facilitate parturition. Eligibility criteria were primary literature with efficacy or safety outcomes reported; studied in peripartum persons; and available in English. Records were excluded if they were available as abstracts only. Data was synthesized by study characteristics, patient demographics, and outcomes. The RoB2 and ROBINS-I were used to assess risk of bias. Results: A total of 11 studies met inclusion criteria: seven randomized placebo-controlled trials, one randomized non placebo-controlled trial, one case study, one observational retrospective study, and one quasi-experimental cross-sectional study. Efficacy outcomes included Bishop scores and duration of labor during the different phases. Reported adverse events were generally mild and included increased blood pressure, decreased heart rate, pain, bleeding, nausea, and vomiting. Important risks of bias exist across the literature reviewed. Conclusions: The use of EP for parturition in peripartum individuals is not recommended. Further research is warranted before use during parturition or the peripartum period. Other: The authors deny conflicts of interest. The study was neither registered nor funded.
Detection of Changes in Macrophage Polarization as a Result of 5-Aminolevulinic Acid Photodynamic Therapy Using Fluorescence-Lifetime Imaging Microscopy
Authors: Ryabova Anastasia , Romanishkin Igor , Skobeltsin Alexey , Markova Inessa , Pominova Daria , Linkov Kirill , Loschenov Victor
Published: December 2022

Non-invasive detection of polarized macrophages in tumors is an urgent task in terms of combined antitumor therapy. By analyzing the fluorescence lifetime of the metabolic cofactors—the reduced form of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and flavins—differences in cellular metabolism of normal tissue, tumor, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory macrophages were demonstrated. In this work we studied changes in the polarization of macrophages obtained from THP-1 monocytes in response to photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA–PDT). Moderate ALA–PDT in vitro led to changes in M0 macrophages metabolism towards M1 polarization, wherein M1 and M2 macrophages died and were replaced by non-polarized cells. The interstitial distribution of polarized macrophages after ALA–PDT was studied in a mouse tumor model of grafted Lewis lung carcinoma. In response to ALA–PDT, there was an increase in the inflammatory macrophages fraction in the tumor node. Metabolic fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) was performed for macrophages in vitro and for tumor cryosections. It was shown that analysis of phasor diagrams for the NADH, flavins, and 5-ALA-induced protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) fluorescence lifetime helps to determine the change in metabolism in response to different modes of PDT at the cellular and tissue levels. These data can be used for post-surgery tissue inspection.
Poincaré Beams at the Tight Focus: Inseparability, Radial Spin Hall Effect, and Reverse Energy Flow
Authors: Kotlyar Victor V. , Stafeev Sergey S. , Zaitsev Vladislav D. , Telegin Alexey M.
Published: December 2022

The family of Poincaré beams has three parameters, including two real-valued angular parameters, which specify a definite polarization state on the Poincaré sphere, and a third integer parameter n specifying the beam singularity order. We show theoretically and through a numerical simulation that, while being inseparable and not allowing for the separation of polarization and orbital degrees of freedom in the general case, the Poincaré beams display remarkable properties when tightly focused. We find that at n = 2, a reverse energy flow occurs near the optical axis, which is mathematically expressed as the negative projection of the Poynting vector. We also reveal that given certain parameters of the Poincaré beams, the energy flow rotates around the optical axis due to spin–orbital conversion. We also reveal a radial optical Hall effect that occurs at the tight focus of Poincaré beams, when the on-axis components of the spin angular momentum vector have different signs on certain different-radius circles centered at the focal spot center.
High-Order Orbital and Spin Hall Effects at the Tight Focus of Laser Beams
Authors: Kotlyar Victor V. , Stafeev Sergey S. , Kozlova Elena S. , Butt Muhammad A.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, using a Richards–Wolf method, which describes the behavior of electromagnetic waves at the sharp focus, we show that high-order spin and orbital Hall effects take place at the focal plane of tightly focused laser beams. We reveal that four local subwavelength regions are formed at the focus of a linearly polarized optical vortex with unit topological charge, where the spin angular momentum behaves in a special way. Longitudinal projections of the spin angular momentum are oppositely directed in the adjacent regions. We conclude that this is because photons falling into the neighboring regions at the focus have the opposite spin. This newly observed phenomenon may be called a spin Hall effect of the 4-th order. We also show that tightly focusing the superposition of cylindrical vector beams of the m-th and zero-order produces 2m subwavelength regions in the focal plane, such that longitudinal projections of the orbital angular momentum are oppositely directed in the neighboring regions. This occurs because photons falling into the neighboring regions at the focus have the opposite signs of the on-axis projections of the orbital angular momentum. This phenomenon may be termed an orbital Hall effect of the 2m-th order.
ZnCl2-Enhanced Intrinsic Luminescence of Tin Chlorophosphate Glasses
Authors: Wu Ting , Tao Yiting , Wang Panting , Zhao Mingjun , Chen Danping
Published: December 2022

This communication reports the intrinsic luminescence of tin chlorophosphate glasses. The glass maintains the low melting point characteristics of tin fluorophosphate glasses, and exhibits a red-shifted and broadened excitation wavelength peak. Tin chlorophosphate glasses can exhibit a broadband luminescence of 400–700 nm under an excitation of 380–430 nm. Furthermore, the introduction of ZnCl2 into tin chlorophosphate glasses can considerably enhance the luminescence without affecting their low-melting characteristics. The luminescence intensity can be increased fourfold, with the enhancement attributed to the reduced visible absorption, improved dispersion of Sn2+ ions, and the energy exchange between Sn2+ and Zn2+ in the glasses owing to the addition of ZnCl2.
Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. Extract Induces Apoptosis-like Programmed Cell Death in Acanthamoeba castellanii Trophozoites
Authors: Lê Hương-Giang , Choi Ji-Su , Hwang Buyng-Su , Jeong Yong-Tae , Kang Jung-Mi , Võ Tuấn-Cường , Cho Pyo-Yun , Lee Young-Kyung , Yoo Won-Gi , Hong Yeonchul , Oh Young-Taek , Na Byoung-Kuk
Published: December 2022

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is an infectious ocular disease which is difficult to diagnose correctly and cure. Development of an effective and safe therapeutic drug for AK is needed. Our preliminary screening of more than 200 extracts from wild plants collected in Korea suggested the potential amoebicidal activity of Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. extract (PAE) against Acanthamoeba species. Here, we aimed to analyze the amoebicidal activity of PAE on Acanthamoeba and its underlying amoebicidal mechanism. PAE induced amoebicidal activity against both A. castellanii and A. polyphaga trophozoites, while it showed low cytotoxicity in human corneal epithelial cells (HCE-2) and human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19). Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed subcellular morphological changes, such as increased granules, abnormal mitochondria, and atypical cyst wall formation, in the PAE-treated A. castellanii. Fluorometric apoptosis assay and TUNEL assay revealed apoptosis-like programmed cell death (PCD) in the PAE-treated A. castellanii. The PAE treatment increased reactive oxygen species production and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential in the amoeba. The enhanced expression of autophagy-associated genes was also detected. These results suggested that PAE exerted a promising amoebicidal effect on A. castellanii trophozoites via the PCD pathway. PAE could be a potential candidate for developing a therapeutic drug for AK.
Stress-Induced Intensification of Deoxyshikonin Production in Rindera graeca Hairy Root Cultures with Ester-Based Scaffolds
Authors: Wierzchowski Kamil , Kawka Mateusz , Wrzecionek Michał , Urbanek Julia , Pietrosiuk Agnieszka , Sykłowska-Baranek Katarzyna , Gadomska-Gajadhur Agnieszka , Pilarek Maciej
Published: December 2022

In vitro plant cell and tissue culture systems allow for controlling a wide range of culture environmental factors selectively influencing biomass growth and the yield of secondary metabolites. Among the most efficient methods, complex supplementation of the culture medium with elicitors, precursors, and other functional substances may significantly enhance valuable metabolite productivity through a stress induction mechanism. In the search for novel techniques in plant experimental biotechnology, the goal of the study was to evaluate stress-inducing properties of novel biodegradable ester-based scaffolds made of poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) and poly(lactic acid) (PLA) influencing on the growth and deoxyshikonin productivity of Rindera graeca hairy roots immobilized on the experimental constructs. Rindera graeca hairy roots were maintained under the dark condition for 28 days in three independent systems, i.e., (i) non-immobilized biomass (a reference system), (ii) biomass immobilized on PGS scaffolds, and (iii) biomass immobilized on PLA scaffolds. The stress-inducing properties of the applied polymerized esters selectively impacted R. graeca hairy roots. The PGS scaffolds caused the production of deoxyshikonin, which does not occur in other culture systems, and PLA promoted biomass proliferation by doubling its increase compared to the reference system.
Modification of Dietary Fibers to Valorize the By-Products of Cereal, Fruit and Vegetable Industry—A Review on Treatment Methods
Authors: Iqbal Shahab , Tirpanalan-Staben Özge , Franke Knut
Published: December 2022

Many by-products originating from cereal, fruit and vegetable industries contain quite high amounts of dietary fiber (DF), which play an important role in maintaining the healthy state of the human body. Nevertheless, huge proportions of these by-products are still underutilized as feed ingredients, to generate energy within an anaerobic digestion plant or even landfilled. One of the biggest hindrances in the valorization of such by-products is their very low soluble dietary fiber (SDF) to insoluble dietary fiber (IDF) ratios, impairing their nutritional functionality, palatability and technological applicability. Therefore, it is of interest to develop methods that can enhance the SDF to IDF ratio and that can be applied to the by-product streams of the food industry, enabling better valorization perspectives for human nutrition purposes. In this regard, the review paper provides an overview of existing technologies to modify the SDF to IDF ratio in by-products of the food industry by means of physical, chemical and biological treatments. For each type of treatment, available data on application examples including achieved increases in SDF contents are given. Additionally, a comparative discussion regarding the advantages and disadvantages of these methods is provided.
The Regulatory Mechanisms and Control Technologies of Chilling Injury and Fungal Diseases of Postharvest Loquat Fruit
Authors: Zhang Shen , Sun Huimin , Wang Jingyi , Shen Junnan , He Fan , Chen Dongxiao , Wang Ying
Published: December 2022

Loquat is a popular fruit widely cultivated all over the world. It is rich in minerals and carotenoids and has high commercial value. At room temperature, loquat fruit is impressionable to water and nutritional losses, physical damage, and microbial decay, resulting in a short postharvest life. Low-temperature storage is routinely used to prolong the shelf life of loquat fruit; however, cold storage can also lead to lignification of flesh tissue, which is one of the major symptoms of chilling injury (CI), reducing the quality and economic value of the fruit. In addition, fruit decay caused by microbial infection is another important reason for postharvest losses of loquat. To reduce quality deterioration and optimize the postharvest storage strategies of loquat fruit, considerable progress has been made in the physiological and molecular biological studies of CI, microbial decay, and preservation technologies of loquat fruit during the postharvest phase in recent decades. This review summarizes the current research progress and provides a reference for the improvement of loquat fruit quality.
The Optimized Roadway Layouts and Surrounding Rock Control Technology of the Fully Mechanized Mining Surface with Large Mining Heights in High-Gas Mines
Authors: Ma Qi , Zhang Yidong , Li Zexin , Zheng Yu , Song Guangyuan , Hu Lei
Published: December 2022

Many problems exist in the layout of working surfaces in high-gas mines, such as the low efficiency of roadway excavation, difficulties in maintenance after excavation, and serious resource wastes due to difficulties in recovering coal pillars between roadways. Taking the project profile in the west wing mining area of Sihe Coal Mine as the background, this work proposed an optimization plan for the staggered-layer arrangement of roadways. The minimum retained size of the coal pillar was calculated through theoretical analysis, and the plastic failure and deformations of surrounding rocks under different coal pillar sizes and roadway layouts were compared based on finite difference numerical simulations. The reasonable retained size of the coal pillar was determined to be 45 m, and the roadway layout was determined according to the distribution of coal and rock strata in the mining field. The technical measures of base angle pressure relief blasting and strengthening support were proposed to ensure the safety and stability of surrounding rocks of roadways during the service period after the layout plan was optimized. Similar simulation tests were used to study the damage deformations and stress changes of the blasting pressure relief floor. On-site tests showed that the optimized roadway layout greatly improved the recovery rate of coal resources. In addition, surrounding rocks had good stability, and they could be simply repaired or serve the next working surface directly without being repaired. These research results provide a scientific basis and useful reference for similar projects.
Control Efficiency of Biochar Loaded with Bacillus subtilis Tpb55 against Tobacco Black Shank
Authors: Jia Haijiang , Lv Xiaolin , Sohail Muhammad Aamir , Li Min , Huang Bin , Wang Jie
Published: December 2022

Black shank caused by Phytophthora nicotianae has become a destructive soil-borne disease to different flue-cured tobacco cultivars in Southwest China. The use of biochar amendments for microorganism synergy is a promising effective strategy for P. nicotianae development control. In this study, biochar samples were prepared from tamarisk with different pyrolization temperatures (300–500 °C). The effect of pyrolytic temperatures on the bacteria immobilization efficiency of biochar was investigated. B. subtilis Tpb55 was successfully loaded on different biochars as biocontrol composites. The survival investigation of the inoculum suggested that biochar pyrolized at 300 °C (BC300), with a large pore opening diameter; a greater pore volume exhibited a better Tpb55 immobilization. A pot experiment indicated that Tpb55-loaded BC300 had a more pronounced decrease in the disease severity index of black shank disease and an increase in the soil pH, alkali-hydrolyzable nitrogen, soil-available phosphorus, and available potassium. BC300 inoculated with Tpb55 showed the highest control effect (79.60%) against tobacco black shank in the pot experiments, with the lowest copy number of P. nicotianae DNA. In conclusion, biochar-immobilized Tpb55 may provide a new strategy for preventing and controlling tobacco black shank.
Logistics Trends and Innovations in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic: An Analysis Using Text Mining
Authors: Zondervan Niels A. , Tolentino-Zondervan Frazen , Moeke Dennis
Published: December 2022

The disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have forced many companies in the logistics sector to innovate, or even transform their business and underlying processes. Closing borders, limited supply and manpower, and continuous changes in regulations challenged many logistics firms to innovate. This study analyzes 5098 abstracts of logistics articles using text mining to identify and to quantify the changes in logistics trends and innovations before and during the COVID-19 pandemic, and if these trends and innovations were accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Results indicate that (1) resiliency is an ongoing trend in logistics and has shown increasing importance during the COVID-19 pandemic; (2) there appears to be acceleration in digitalization trend in logistics based on emerging focus on blockchain, Internet of Things, data, drones, robots, and unmanned vehicles during COVID-19 pandemic, and (3) there seems to be no evidence of acceleration in sustainability due to COVID-19 despite an observed shift in sustainability trends in terms of bioenergy and biofuel before COVID-19 pandemic to low-carbon, hydrogen and electric vehicles during COVID-19 pandemic. This paper recommends logistics firms, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), to analyze their readiness to adopt digitalization in terms of data, resources, and technology via, e.g., the use of a maturity scan, to contribute to sustainable and resilient logistics and to make sure that they remain competitive and future-proof. Policy makers can provide support to these SMEs by providing information, funding, and template solutions.
Application of Hydrophobic Deep Eutectic Solvents in Extraction of Metals from Real Solutions Obtained by Leaching Cathodes from End-of-Life Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kozhevnikova Arina V. , Zinov’eva Inna V. , Zakhodyaeva Yulia A. , Baranovskaya Vasilisa B. , Voshkin Andrey A.
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the results of applying hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs) for the extraction of metal ions from a real hydrochloric acid solution after leaching the cathodes of three different types of Li-ion batteries. Aliquat 336-, D2EHPA- and menthol-based HDESs developed by us were used in this study. The optimal HCl leaching conditions chosen are 80 °C, 2 M HCl, 6 h, solid:liquid ratio = 1:25. The results of stepwise separation of the major elements using extraction with HDESs are presented. The HDESs used in the cross-current extraction made it possible to extract all elements with extraction ratios above 98%. It was shown that the suggested method could potentially be used in the process of recycling end-of-life Li-ion batteries.
Preunderstanding, Presuppositions and Biblical Interpretation
Authors: Howe Thomas A.
Published: December 2022

For contemporary biblical scholars, the recognition that everyone interprets a text through one’s presuppositions and preunderstanding is axiomatic. If anyone claims to approach the biblical text without any presuppositions, this is in fact a presupposition. The pervasive recognition of presuppositions and preunderstanding in interpretation has largely developed out of the influence of modern philosophy, particularly in such representatives as Immanuel Kant, Martin Heidegger, and Hans-Georg Gadamer. One’s presuppositions and preunderstanding form the grid through which one interprets everything, not only texts. The pervasiveness of presuppositions and preunderstanding has issued in a wholesale rejection of the possibility of objectivity in interpretation. This essay will argue that the rejection of the possibility of objectivity is self-defeating.
Partial Lagrangian for Efficient Extension and Reconstruction of Multi-DoF Systems and Efficient Analysis Using Automatic Differentiation
Authors: Kusaka Takashi , Tanaka Takayuki
Published: December 2022

In the fields of control engineering and robotics, either the Lagrange or Newton–Euler method is generally used to analyze and design systems using equations of motion. Although the Lagrange method can obtain analytical solutions, it is difficult to handle in multi-degree-of-freedom systems because the computational complexity increases explosively as the number of degrees of freedom increases. Conversely, the Newton–Euler method requires less computation even for multi-degree-of-freedom systems, but it cannot obtain an analytical solution. Therefore, we propose a partial Lagrange method that can handle the Lagrange equation efficiently even for multi-degree-of-freedom systems by using a divide-and-conquer approach. The proposed method can easily handle system extensions and system reconstructions, such as changes to intermediate links, for multi-degree-of-freedom serial link manipulators. In addition, the proposed method facilitates the derivation of the equations of motion-by-hand calculations, and when combined with an analysis algorithm using automatic differentiation, it can easily realize motion analysis and control the simulation of multi-degree-of-freedom models. Using multiple pendulums as examples, we confirm the effectiveness of system expansion and system reconstruction with the partial Lagrangians. The derivation of their equations of motion and the results of motion analysis by simulation and motion control experiments are presented. The system extensions and reconstructions proposed herein can be used simultaneously with conventional analytical methods, allowing manual derivations of equations of motion and numerical computer simulations to be performed more efficiently.
Evaluation of Terrestrial Water Storage Changes and Major Driving Factors Analysis in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Guo Yi , Gan Fuping , Yan Baikun , Bai Juan , Xing Naichen , Zhuo Yue
Published: December 2022

Quantitative assessment of the terrestrial water storage (TWS) changes and the major driving factors have been hindered by the lack of direct observations in Inner Mongolia, China. In this study, the spatial and temporal changes of TWS and groundwater storage (GWS) in Inner Mongolia during 2003–2021 were evaluated using the satellite gravity data from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and the GRACE Follow On combined with data from land surface models. The results indicated that Inner Mongolia has experienced a widespread TWS loss of approximately 1.82 mm/yr from 2003–2021, with a more severe depletion rate of 4.15 mm/yr for GWS. Meteorological factors were the driving factors for water storage changes in northeastern and western regions. The abundant precipitation increased TWS in northeast regions at 2.36 mm/yr. Anthropogenic activities (agricultural irrigation and coal mining) were the driving factors for water resource decline in the middle and eastern regions (especially in the agropastoral transitional zone), where the decrease rates were 4.09 mm/yr and 3.69 mm/yr, respectively. In addition, the severities of hydrological drought events were identified based on water storage deficits, with average severity values of 17 mm, 18 mm, 24 mm, and 33 mm for the west, middle, east, and northeast regions, respectively. This study established a basic framework for water resource changes in Inner Mongolia and provided a scientific foundation for further water resources investigation.
Monitoring of Indoor Farming of Lettuce Leaves for 16 Hours Using Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and Double-Shell Model (DSM)
Authors: Nouaze Joseph Christian , Kim Jae Hyung , Jeon Gye Rok , Kim Jae Ho
Published: December 2022

An electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) experiment was performed using a double-shell electrical model to investigate the feasibility of detecting physiological changes in lettuce leaves over 16 h. Four lettuce plants were used, and the impedance spectra of the leaves were measured five times per plant every hour at frequencies of 500 Hz and 300 kHz. Estimated R-C parameters were computed, and the results show that the lettuce leaves closely fit the double-shell model (DSM). The average resistance ratios of R1 = 10.66R4 and R1 = 3.34R2 show high resistance in the extracellular fluid (ECF). A rapid increase in resistance (R1, R2, and R4) and a decrease in capacitance (C3 and C5) during water uptake were observed. In contrast, a gradual decrease in resistance and an increase in capacitance were observed while the LED light was on. Comparative studies of leaf physiology and electrical value changes support the idea that EIS is a great technique for the early monitoring of plant growth for crop production.
Depth-Based Measurement of Respiratory Volumes: A Review
Authors: Wichum Felix , Wiede Christian , Seidl Karsten
Published: December 2022

Depth-based plethysmography (DPG) for the measurement of respiratory parameters is a mobile and cost-effective alternative to spirometry and body plethysmography. In addition, natural breathing can be measured without a mouthpiece, and breathing mechanics can be visualized. This paper aims at showing further improvements for DPG by analyzing recent developments regarding the individual components of a DPG measurement. Starting from the advantages and application scenarios, measurement scenarios and recording devices, selection algorithms and location of a region of interest (ROI) on the upper body, signal processing steps, models for error minimization with a reference measurement device, and final evaluation procedures are presented and discussed. It is shown that ROI selection has an impact on signal quality. Adaptive methods and dynamic referencing of body points to select the ROI can allow more accurate placement and thus lead to better signal quality. Multiple different ROIs can be used to assess breathing mechanics and distinguish patient groups. Signal acquisition can be performed quickly using arithmetic calculations and is not inferior to complex 3D reconstruction algorithms. It is shown that linear models provide a good approximation of the signal. However, further dependencies, such as personal characteristics, may lead to non-linear models in the future. Finally, it is pointed out to focus developments with respect to single-camera systems and to focus on independence from an individual calibration in the evaluation.
Detection Methods for Multi-Modal Inertial Gas Sensors
Authors: Najar Fehmi , Ghommem Mehdi , Kocer Samed , Elhady Alaa , Abdel-Rahman Eihab M.
Published: December 2022

We investigate the rich potential of the multi-modal motions of electrostatically actuated asymmetric arch microbeams to design higher sensitivity and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) inertial gas sensors. The sensors are made of fixed–fixed microbeams with an actuation electrode extending over one-half of the beam span in order to maximize the actuation of asymmetry. A nonlinear dynamic reduced-order model of the sensor is first developed and validated. It is then deployed to investigate the design of sensors that exploit the spatially complex and dynamically rich motions that arise due to veering and modal hybridization between the first symmetric and the first anti-symmetric modes of the beam. Specifically, we compare among the performance of four sensors implemented on a common platform using four detection mechanisms: classical frequency shift, conventional bifurcation, modal ratio, and differential capacitance. We find that frequency shift and conventional bifurcation sensors have comparable sensitivities. On the other hand, modal interactions within the veering range and modal hybridization beyond it offer opportunities for enhancing the sensitivity and SNR of bifurcation-based sensors. One method to achieve that is to use the modal ratio between the capacitances attributed to the symmetric and asymmetric modes as a detector, which increases the detection signal by three orders of magnitude compared to a conventional bifurcation sensor. We also present a novel sensing mechanism that exploits a rigid arm extending transversely from the arch beam mid-point and placed at equal distances between two side electrodes. It uses the asymmetry of the arch beam motions to induce rotary motions and realize a differential sensor. It is found to increase the detection signal by two orders of magnitude compared to a conventional bifurcation sensor.
Privacy-Aware Architectures for NFC and RFID Sensors in Healthcare Applications
Authors: Raso Emanuele , Bianco Giulio Maria , Bracciale Lorenzo , Marrocco Gaetano , Occhiuzzi Cecilia , Loreti Pierpaolo
Published: December 2022

World population and life expectancy have increased steadily in recent years, raising issues regarding access to medical treatments and related expenses. Through last-generation medical sensors, NFC (Near Field Communication) and radio frequency identification (RFID) technologies can enable healthcare internet of things (H-IoT) systems to improve the quality of care while reducing costs. Moreover, the adoption of point-of-care (PoC) testing, performed whenever care is needed to return prompt feedback to the patient, can generate great synergy with NFC/RFID H-IoT systems. However, medical data are extremely sensitive and require careful management and storage to protect patients from malicious actors, so secure system architectures must be conceived for real scenarios. Existing studies do not analyze the security of raw data from the radiofrequency link to cloud-based sharing. Therefore, two novel cloud-based system architectures for data collected from NFC/RFID medical sensors are proposed in this paper. Privacy during data collection is ensured using a set of classical countermeasures selected based on the scientific literature. Then, data can be shared with the medical team using one of two architectures: in the first one, the medical system manages all data accesses, whereas in the second one, the patient defines the access policies. Comprehensive analysis of the H-IoT system can be useful for fostering research on the security of wearable wireless sensors. Moreover, the proposed architectures can be implemented for deploying and testing NFC/RFID-based healthcare applications, such as, for instance, domestic PoCs.
Using Fuzzy Logic to Increase Accuracy in Mango Maturity Index Classification: Approach for Developing a Portable Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Device
Authors: Khumaidi Ali , Purwanto Yohanes Aris , Sukoco Heru , Wijaya Sony Hartono
Published: December 2022

Grading is a decisive step in the successful distribution of mangoes to customers according to their preferences for the maturity index. A non-destructive method using near-infrared spectroscopy has historically been used to predict the maturity of fruit. This research classifies the maturity indexes in five classes using a new approach involving classification modeling and the application of fuzzy logic and indirect classification by measuring four parameters: total acidity, soluble solids content, firmness, and starch. These four quantitative parameters provide guidelines for maturity indexes and consumer preferences. The development of portable devices uses a neo spectra micro development kit with specifications for the spectrum of 1350–2500 nm. In terms of computer technology, this study uses a Raspberry Pi and Python programming. To improve the accuracy performance, preprocessing is carried out using 12 spectral transformation operators. Next, these operators are collected and combined to achieve optimal performance. The performance of the classification model with direct and indirect approaches is then compared. Ultimately, classification of the direct approach with preprocessing using linear discriminant analysis offered an accuracy of 91.43%, and classification of the indirect approach using partial least squares with fuzzy logic had an accuracy of 95.7%.
A Mathematically Generated Noise Technique for Ultrasound Systems
Authors: Choi Hojong , Shin Seung-Hyeok
Published: December 2022

Ultrasound systems have been widely used for consultation; however, they are susceptible to cyberattacks. Such ultrasound systems use random bits to protect patient information, which is vital to the stability of information-protecting systems used in ultrasound machines. The stability of the random bit must satisfy its unpredictability. To create a random bit, noise generated in hardware is typically used; however, extracting sufficient noise from systems is challenging when resources are limited. There are various methods for generating noises but most of these studies are based on hardware. Compared with hardware-based methods, software-based methods can be easily accessed by the software developer; therefore, we applied a mathematically generated noise function to generate random bits for ultrasound systems. Herein, we compared the performance of random bits using a newly proposed mathematical function and using the frequency of the central processing unit of the hardware. Random bits are generated using a raw bitmap image measuring 1000 × 663 bytes. The generated random bit analyzes the sampling data in generation time units as time-series data and then verifies the mean, median, and mode. To further apply the random bit in an ultrasound system, the image is randomized by applying exclusive mixing to a 1000 × 663 ultrasound phantom image; subsequently, the comparison and analysis of statistical data processing using hardware noise and the proposed algorithm were provided. The peak signal-to-noise ratio and mean square error of the images are compared to evaluate their quality. As a result of the test, the min entropy estimate (estimated value) was 7.156616/8 bit in the proposed study, which indicated a performance superior to that of GetSystemTime. These results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms the conventional method used in ultrasound systems.
Development of an Intelligent System for the Monitoring and Diagnosis of the Well-Being
Authors: Machado-Jaimes Lizeth-Guadalupe , Bustamante-Bello Martin Rogelio , Argüelles-Cruz Amadeo-José , Alfaro-Ponce Mariel
Published: December 2022

Today, society is more aware of their well-being and health, making wearable devices a new and affordable way to track them continuously. Smartwatches allow access to daily vital physiological measurements, which help people to be aware of their health status. Even though these technologies allow the following of different health conditions, their application in health is still limited to the following physical parameters to allow physicians treatment and diagnosis. This paper presents LM Research, a smart monitoring system mainly composed of a web page, REST APIs, machine learning algorithms, psychological questionnaire, and smartwatches. The system introduces the continuous monitoring of the users’ physical and mental indicators to prevent a wellness crisis; the mental indicators and the system’s continuous feedback to the user could be, in the future, a tool for medical specialists treating well-being. For this purpose, it collects psychological parameters on smartwatches and mental health data using a psychological questionnaire to develop a supervised machine learning wellness model that predicts the wellness of smartwatch users. The full construction of the database and the technology employed for its development is presented. Moreover, six machine learning algorithms (Decision Tree, Random Forest, Naive Bayes, Neural Networks, Support Vector Machine, and K-nearest neighbor) were applied to the database to test which classifies better the information obtained by the proposed system. In order to integrate this algorithm into LM Research, Random Forest being the one with the higher accuracy of 88%.
The Impact of the Implementation of Safety Measures on Frontline Workers’ Safety Accountability: A Saudi Arabian Case Study of a Well Intervention Business Model
Authors: Al-Arnous Ahmed Bassam , Abdelwahed Nadia Abdelhamid Abdelmegeed
Published: December 2022

Even in the best-case scenarios, working in the energy sector is tough because of the numerous possible risks that can arise during routine tasks. Therefore, the top priority of firms’ management is their responsibilities for their employees’ safety as they undertake various roles. In this study, the researchers investigated the effect of safety measures on the safety accountability (SA) of the Saudi Arabian Aramco Company’s frontline workers. The researchers used a quantitative approach and collected data through a survey questionnaire. We applied a random sampling technique to target the company’s frontline workers. Initially, the researchers distributed 450 questionnaires and received back 242 valid samples. This represented a 53% response rate. Next, the researchers applied Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to assess the directions of the hypothesized paths. This study’s findings demonstrate that safety policy (SP), safety training (ST), safety communication (SC), safety commitment (SCT) and safety incentives (SIs) have positive and significant effects on frontline workers’ safety accountability (SA). In addition, this study’s findings provide guidelines to policy makers, government authorities and company heads to implement further initiatives that adopt precautionary and safety measures to protect their frontline workers’ lives. Further, this study’s findings show the benefits of opening avenues of research to concentrate on safety measures such SP, ST, SC, SCT and SIs in order to create the frontline workers’ responsibilities for safety accountability (SA). Finally, the empirical evidence, which the researchers obtained from the Aramco Company’s frontline workers, adds to the depth of knowledge on this subject; validates the environmental science and management literature; and provides road maps for other companies to investigate safety challenges
Towards an Integrated Road Safety Management: The Institutional-Strategy-Environment (ISE) Model
Authors: Carnis Laurent
Published: December 2022

The safe system approach is considered the best practice. Different international organizations highly recommend the implementation of such an approach to significantly improve their road safety performance. The safe system has become a normative approach, a way of thinking. It rests upon different pillars, which represent the framework to be implemented. Among the different dimensions, the management pillar is crucial, which calls for a detailed investigation. First, the aim of this contribution is to understand the implications and requirements of implementing a safe system management model (SSMM). This contribution presents this model and challenges its aims and its limits, especially the promoted management framework. Six main limits of the SSMM are discussed. The different limits of the SSMM emphasize the importance of thinking about singularities and contingencies of the institutional order as well as considering and understanding the context in which a policy is implemented. Second, this contribution proposes an alternative conceptual approach applied to the managerial dimension of the road safety system. It develops the institutional-strategy-environment (ISE) model for elaborating road safety public strategy. This conceptual elaboration is based both on a proven theoretical corpus and on numerous field observations, and expert activities carried out in various countries. The ISE dimensions are essential because they are seldom discussed, even though they are the underpinning of more and more public road safety policies. In this respect, this contribution proposes an alternative approach by considering these three interdependent dimensions. The institutional dimension rests upon a layered approach, while strategy is considered with an adapted SWOT matrix. The environmental dimension is assessed with a Pestel model. The application of such an approach to the road safety field and to test its explanatory power is particularly challenging but opens new avenues for implementing road safety public policy.