bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Boundary Optimization of Free Route Airspace Sectors
Authors: Yang Lei , Huang Jue , Gao Qi , Zhou Yi , Hu Minghua , Xie Hua
Published: December 2022

Free Route Airspace (FRA) permits users to freely plan routes between defined entry and exit waypoints with the possibility of routing via intermediate waypoints, which is beneficial to improve flight efficiency. Dynamic management of sectors is essential for the future promotion of full-time FRA applications. In this paper, considering the demand uncertainty at the pre-tactical level, we construct an FRA complexity indicator system and use the XGBoost algorithm to predict the ATC workload. A two-stage sector boundary optimization method is proposed, using Binary Space Partition (BSP) to generate sector boundaries and an A*-based heuristic algorithm to automatically tune them to conform to the operational structure and “direct to” characteristics of FRA. Finally, this paper verifies the effectiveness of the proposed method for balancing ATC workload in a pre-designed Lanzhou FRA in China.
A Recursive Approach for Magnetic Field Estimation in Spacecraft Magnetic Attitude Control
Authors: Desouky Mohammed A. A. , Abdelkhalik Ossama
Published: December 2022

This paper is concerned with magnetic attitude control of spacecraft. The operation of the magnetic actuators is usually on a duty cycle; during the off times in this duty cycle the magnetometers are used to measure the magnetic field around the spacecraft. This alternate operation of magnetic actuators and sensors avoids the noise effect on the magnetometers coming from the magnetic actuators. This alternate operation results in longer maneuver times. This paper presents an estimation approach for the magnetic field, as well as the spacecraft attitude, that increases the duty cycle of the magnetic rods while reducing the rate of collecting the magnetometer data. A modified Multiplicative Extended Kalman Filter (MEKF) is used in the proposed approach. A relatively simple and fast dynamic model is developed for use in the MEKF. Monte Carlo simulations presented in this paper show that the proposed approach results in less maneuver time, and less power consumption by the magnetic rods when compared to a standard magnetic control approach. The magnetic field estimation process is verified using data collected from the CASSIOPE spacecraft using its telemetry system and the results are presented.
Variations of Rice Yield and Quality in Response to Different Establishment Methods at Farmers’ Field
Authors: Wu Wenge , Tu Debao , Xi Min , Xu Youzun , Zhou Yongjin , Li Zhong , Ji Yalan , Sun Xueyuan , Yang Yachun , Li Feiyue
Published: December 2022

Mechanized production plays an important role in fulfilling food security demands during the period of labor shortage. Despite its benefits, the mechanical transplanted method (MET) has not been widely adopted due to a lack of awareness. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of the MET, the manual transplanted method (MAT), and the directed seeded method (DS) on rice yield and quality in farmers’ fields. A two-years field experiment (2016 and 2017) and a one-year survey (2020) were conducted to compare rice yield and quality among the MAT, MET, and DS methods. MET exhibited a higher-yielding population, increased biomass production, enhanced yield, and improved grain quality, compared with MAT. Moreover, japonica rice in MET (MET-JR) produced the maximum yield, 0.6 t hm−2 to 3.1 t hm−2 higher than in other treatments. However, japonica rice showed a poorer appearance quality than indica rice, as well as large panicle size (grains number per panicle ≥ 190); hybrid indica rice (HIR) also presented a high yield with poor appearance quality. These results confirmed that the application of MET could be useful in attaining high panicles per m2, high biomass production, high rice yield, and considerably improved rice quality in farmers’ fields under labor shortage circumstances. Furthermore, it is also imperative to consider balancing the yield and quality of japonica rice and large panicle HIR and employing MET at a broader scale in China, as well as other developing countries having rice–based cropping systems.
Techno-Economic Assessment of an Office-Based Indoor Farming Unit
Authors: Cichocki Jedrzej , von Cossel Moritz , Winkler Bastian
Published: December 2022

Decentralized, smart indoor cultivation systems can produce herbs and vegetables for fresh and healthy daily nutrition of the urban population. This study assesses technical and resource requirements, productivity, and economic viability of the “Smart Office Farm” (SOF), based on a 5-week production cycle of curled lettuce, lolo rosso, pak choi and basil at three photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) levels using a randomized block design. The total fresh matter yield of consumable biomass of all crops was 2.5 kg m−2 with operating expenses (without labor costs) of EUR 53.14 kg−1; more than twice as expensive compared to large-scale vertical farm and open-field cultivation. However, there is no need to add trade margins and transportation costs. The electricity supply to SOF is 73%, by far the largest contributor to operational costs of office-based crop production. Energetic optimizations such as a more homogeneous PPFD distribution at the plant level, as well as adaptation of light quality and quantity to crop needs can increase the economic viability of such small indoor farms. With reduced production costs, urban indoor growing systems such as SOF can become a viable option for supporting fresh and healthy daily nutrition in urban environments.
Novel Perspective of Medicinal Mushroom Cultivations: A Review Case for ‘Magic’ Mushrooms
Authors: Sommano Sarana Rose , Suksathan Ratchuporn , Sombat Thanarat , Seehanam Pimjai , Sirilun Sasithorn , Ruksiriwanich Warintorn , Wangtueai Sutee , Leksawasdi Noppol
Published: December 2022

Fruiting bodies, mycelia, or spores in the form of extracts or powder of various medicinal mushrooms are used to prevent, treat, or cure a range of ailments and balance a healthy diet. Medicinal mushrooms are found in several genera of fungi and their fruit bodies, cultured mycelia, and cultured broth contains phytochemical constituents such as triterpenes, lectins, steroids, phenols, polyphenols, lactones, statins, alkaloids, and antibiotics. Edible mushrooms are considered functional foods that can be used as supplements for complementary and alternative medicines where the markets are growing rapidly. Several species of edible mushrooms possess therapeutic potential and functional characteristics. The psilocybin-containing types, sometimes known as magic mushrooms, have been utilized for generations by indigenous communities due to their hallucinogenic, medicinal, and mind-manifestation properties. Recent clinical research also convinces that these psychedelics have the potential to treat addiction, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. This has escalated the demand for the natural products derived from the mushrooms of these sources, yet the agronomic aspect and biotechnology approaches to produce the active ingredients are not collectively documented. The objectives of this review article are to examine the general type and variation of therapeutic mushrooms, especially those belonging to the Psilocybe. The biotechnology approach for cultivation and the production of secondary metabolites is also appraised. The ultimate purposes are to provide guidance for farmers and companies to pursue sustainable ways to produce natural products for the development of functional food and pharmaceuticals and to support the alteration of the stigmatic drug concerns around psychedelic mushrooms.
Factors Affecting the Efficiency of In Vitro Embryo Production in Prepubertal Mediterranean Water Buffalo
Authors: Currin Luke , Baldassarre Hernan , de Macedo Mariana Priotto , Glanzner Werner Giehl , Gutierrez Karina , Lazaris Katerina , Guay Vanessa , Herrera María Elena Carrillo , da Silva Zigomar , Brown Caitlin , Joron Erin , Herron Ron , Bordignon Vilceu
Published: December 2022

Embryos from prepubertal water buffalo can be produced using laparoscopic ovum pickup (LOPU) and in vitro embryo production (IVEP). However, to date, it is unclear what factors and environmental conditions can affect LOPU-IVEP efficiency in prepubertal animals, especially buffalo. In this study, we explored the impact of season, age and individual variation among female donor animals, as well as the effect of the sire used for in vitro fertilization. Donor animals between 2 and 6 months of age were stimulated using gonadotropins prior to LOPU, which was performed at two-week intervals. Following in vitro maturation and fertilization, the resulting embryos were then cultured to the blastocyst stage until they were either vitrified or transferred into recipient animals. The number of follicles available for aspiration and embryo development rates was stable throughout the year. As animals became older, there was a slight trend for fewer COCs recovered from LOPU and better embryo development. There was a large individual variation in both ovarian response and the developmental competence of oocytes among donors. The bull used for fertilization also had a significant impact on embryo development. Upon embryo transfer, pregnancy rates were not affected by the number of embryos transferred per recipient. The best pregnancy rates were achieved when transferring blastocysts, compared to compact morula or hatched blastocysts. Finally, vitrification had no effect on pregnancy rate compared to fresh embryos.
Evaluation of the Two-Point Ultrasound-Guided Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Laparoscopic Canine Ovariectomy
Authors: Espadas-González Lorena , Usón-Casaús Jesús M. , Pastor-Sirvent Nieves , Santella Massimo , Ezquerra-Calvo Javier , Pérez-Merino Eva M.
Published: December 2022

The transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block causes desensitization of the abdominal wall and peritoneum. Of all the approaches proposed to perform it, the two-injection-point TAP showed the best results in terms of the area reached by the anesthetic solution. However, to date, no clinical data exist. The aim of this study was to evaluate the intra- and postoperative analgesic efficacy of a two-injection-point TAP block in dogs undergoing laparoscopic ovariectomy. A total of 26 animals were assigned to receive general inhalation anesthesia (control group), and 26 dogs were assigned to general inhalation anesthesia combined with TAP block (TAP group). The ultrasound-guided TAP block was carried out with a subcostal and cranial-to-ilium injection per hemiabdomen. The end-tidal concentration of isoflurane (EtISO) was recorded at different moments during the surgery. Postoperative pain was assessed at different time points during the first 24 h after surgery. The control group required significantly higher EtISO concentration during the ovarian resection and showed higher postoperative pain scores than the TAP group. Fewer dogs in the TAP group required intra- or postoperative rescue analgesia. TAP block can be implemented to improve postoperative pain management after laparoscopy, reducing the dosage of the systemic drugs used and, hence, their possible side effects.
Intra- and Inter-Observer Variability of Quantitative Parameters Used in Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound of Kidneys of Healthy Cats
Authors: Hillaert Amber , Stock Emmelie , Favril Sophie , Duchateau Luc , Saunders Jimmy H. , Vanderperren Katrien
Published: December 2022

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is a non-invasive imaging technique which allows qualitative and quantitative assessment of tissue perfusion. Although CEUS offers numerous advantages, a major challenge remains the variability in tissue perfusion quantification. This study aimed to assess intra- and inter-observer variability for quantification of renal perfusion. Two observers with different levels of expertise performed a quantitative analysis of 36 renal CEUS studies, twice. The CEUS data were collected from 12 healthy cats at 3 different time points with a 7-day interval. The inter- and intra-observer agreement was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient. Within and between observers, a good agreement was demonstrated for intensity-related parameters in the cortex, medulla, and interlobular artery. For some parameters, ICCinter was considerably lower than ICCintra, mostly when the ROI encompassed the entire kidney or medulla. With the exception of time to peak (TTP) and mean transit time (mTTI), time-related and slope-related parameters showed poor agreement among observers. In conclusion, it may be advised against having the quantitative assessment of renal perfusion performed by different observers, especially if their experience levels differ. The cortical mTTI seemed to be the most appropriate parameter as it showed a favorable inter-observer agreement and inter-period agreement.
Heparin-Independent and Heparin-Dependent Anti-CXCL4 Antibodies Have a Reciprocal Expression in a Systemic Sclerosis Patients’ Cohort
Authors: Palazzo Raffaella , Stefanantoni Katia , Cadar Marius , Butera Alessia , Riccieri Valeria , Lande Roberto , Frasca Loredana
Published: December 2022

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic disease characterized by skin/internal organ fibrosis, vasculopathy and autoimmunity. Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 4 (CXCL4) is an early SSc biomarker that predicts worse disease outcome. We previously reported that CXCL4 is an autoantigen in SSc, and anti-CXCL4 antibodies correlated with IFN-I and were more abundant in patients with lung fibrosis. However, it is unclear whether antibodies to CXCL4 in SSc are only directed to CXCL4 or recognize complexes formed by CXCL4 and heparin. Here, by analyzing an SSc cohort, we addressed the occurrence of circulating heparin-dependent VS heparin-independent anti-CXCL4 antibodies and their relationship with a few disease parameters. We found that heparin-dependent, like the heparin-independent antibodies, are higher in SSc as compared to healthy donors; they are detectable in 24% and 30% of the SSc patients, respectively, and appear inversely correlated and mutually exclusive. Like the heparin-independent antibodies, heparin-dependent antibodies correlated with digital ulcers. However, in contrast to heparin-independent antibodies, heparin-dependent antibodies did not correlate with IFN-I, but were largely expressed in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. This pilot study indicates that heparin-dependent antibodies are worth studying in larger SSc cohorts to address whether they discriminate SSc sub-groups with different pathological characteristics and outcomes.
Prevalence and Phenotypic Antimicrobial Resistance among ESKAPE Bacteria and Enterobacterales Strains in Wild Birds
Authors: Russo Tamara Pasqualina , Minichino Adriano , Gargiulo Antonio , Varriale Lorena , Borrelli Luca , Pace Antonino , Santaniello Antonio , Pompameo Marina , Fioretti Alessandro , Dipineto Ludovico
Published: December 2022

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a current public health issue globally. To counter this phenomenon and prioritize AMR in the health sector, the World Health Organization (WHO) published a list of bacterial pathogens against which the development of new antimicrobial agents is urgently needed, designating the ESKAPE pathogens (i.e., Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter species) with a ‘priority status’. Moreover, the One Health High Level Expert Panel (OHHLEP) states that human health is closely linked to animal and environmental health, thus promoting a holistic One Health approach in order to be prepared to address possible emerging health threats from the human–animal–environment interface. Wild birds may host and spread pathogens, integrating the epidemiology of infectious diseases. The aim of this study was to examine the role of wild birds as a source of ESKAPE bacteria and other antibiotic-resistant enterobacterales. A total of fifty strains within the ESKAPE group were detected in 40/163 cloacal samples of examined birds (24.5%). Additionally, different strains of enterobacterales were detected in 88/163 cloacal samples (53.9%). Isolated strains exhibited antimicrobial resistance, including towards critically important antibiotics (e.g., third, fourth, fifth generation cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones) for human medicine. Our results confirm that wild birds are potential reservoirs of several pathogens and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and that they could be involved in the dissemination of those bacteria across different environments, with resulting public health concerns.
Comparison of the Retention Rates of Synthetic and Natural Astaxanthin in Feeds and Their Effects on Pigmentation, Growth, and Health in Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Zhao Wei , Guo Yu-Cai , Huai Ming-Yan , Li Lily , Man Chi , Pelletier Wolf , Wei Han-Lin , Yao Rong , Niu Jin
Published: December 2022

The coloring efficiency and physiological function of astaxanthin in fish vary with its regions. The aim of this study was to compare the retention rates of dietary astaxanthin from different sources and its effects on growth, pigmentation, and physiological function in Oncorhynchus mykiss. Fish were fed astaxanthin-supplemented diets (LP: 0.1% Lucantin® Pink CWD; CP: 0.1% Carophyll® Pink; EP: 0.1% Essention® Pink; PR: 1% Phaffia rhodozyma; HP: 1% Haematococcus pluvialis), or a diet without astaxanthin supplementation, for 56 days. Dietary astaxanthin enhanced pigmentation as well as the growth of the fish. The intestinal morphology of fish was improved, and the crude protein content of dorsal muscle significantly increased in fish fed with astaxanthin. Moreover, astaxanthin led to a decrease in total cholesterol levels and alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activity in plasma. Fish fed on the CP diet also produced the highest level of umami amino acids (aspartic acid and glutamic acid). Regarding antioxidant capacity, astaxanthin increased Nrf2/HO-1 signaling and antioxidant enzyme activity. Innate immune responses, including lysozyme and complement systems, were also stimulated by astaxanthin. Lucantin® Pink CWD had the highest stability in feed and achieved the best pigmentation, Essention® Pink performed best in growth promotion and Carophyll® Pink resulted in the best flesh quality. H. pluvialis was the astaxanthin source for achieving the best antioxidant properties and immunity of O. mykiss.
Differences in Oxidative Stress Markers and Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Black Bean Aphid Morphs (Aphis fabae Scop.) Fed on the Primary Host Viburnum opulus L.
Authors: Łukasik Iwona , Goławska Sylwia , Sytykiewicz Hubert
Published: December 2022

Changes in the level of oxidative stress markers—superoxide anion radical (O2−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and the activity of antioxidant enzymes—superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in the black bean aphid occurring on the primary host (viburnum plants) were studied. Among the aphid morphs, the lowest contents of O2−, H2O2 and MDA were noted for winged adults (alatae), which were also characterized by the highest activity of antioxidant enzymes. These metabolic features indicate the adaptation of winged morphs to the colonization of new host plants. During spring migration, an increase in the content of oxidative stress markers and antioxidant enzyme activities in wingless females (fundatrigeniae) was observed. The significance of the biochemical adaptation of the black bean aphid to its winter host is discussed.
Effect of Gastrointestinal Digestion on the Bioaccessibility of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Fermented Aloe vera Juices
Authors: Cuvas-Limon Ruth B. , Ferreira-Santos Pedro , Cruz Mario , Teixeira José A. , Belmares Ruth , Nobre Clarisse
Published: December 2022

Plant-based beverages are enriched by the fermentation process. However, their biocompounds are transformed during gastrointestinal digestion, improving their bioaccessibility, which is of primary importance when considering the associated health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion on phenolic compound bioaccessibility and antioxidant activity of novel Aloe vera juices fermented by probiotic Enterococcus faecium and Lactococcus lactis. Aloe vera juices were digested using the standardized static INFOGEST protocol. During digestion, phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) were accessed. The digestion process was seen to significantly increase the total phenolic content of the fermented Aloe vera juices. The fermentation of Aloe vera increased the bioaccessibility of juice biocompounds, particularly for kaempferol, ellagic acid, resveratrol, hesperidin, ferulic acid, and aloin. The phenolics released during digestion were able to reduce the oxidative radicals assessed by ABTS and FRAP tests, increasing the antioxidant action in the intestine, where they are absorbed. The fermentation of Aloe vera by probiotics is an excellent process to increase the bioavailability of beverages, resulting in natural added-value functional products.
Lingual Lichenoid Lesion Due to Dental Amalgam Fillings: Case Report and Clinical Considerations
Authors: Petruzzi Massimo , della Vella Fedora , Campus Guglielmo , Di Stasio Dario , Lauritano Dorina
Published: December 2022

Oral white lesions are quite common clinical conditions in clinical dental practice. They can be an expression of different diseases, so it is crucial to achieve a correct diagnosis to start an adequate treatment. However, differential diagnosis is not always easy because the clinical appearance of oral white lesions is often similar and non-pathognomonic. We report on a 42-year-old Caucasian woman who complained of a chronic white patch on the left border of her tongue. A provisional diagnosis of oral hairy leukoplakia was made, but the patient was HIV-negative and not immunocompromised. A patch test was performed to exclude an allergic reaction, which resulted negative. Two large amalgam fillings were removed, and the lesion regressed after two weeks, suggesting a diagnosis of oral lichenoid lesions. Amalgam-associated oral lichenoid lesions could be mistaken for hairy leukoplakia when located on the lateral border of the tongue. Patch tests for dental metal series are only sometimes helpful for a diagnosis of oral lichenoid lesions. Patients should follow a careful follow-up to monitor any neoplastic derailment of the lichenoid lesions.
Groundwater and Human Health Risk Assessment in the Vicinity of a Municipal Waste Landfill in Tychy, Poland
Authors: Dąbrowska Dominika , Witkowski Andrzej J.
Published: December 2022

Groundwater quality and human health assessment in the vicinity of landfills can be performed with the use of numerous index methods. The aim of this paper is to present the results of the Environmental Risk Assessment (ERA) and Health Risk Assessment (HRA) in the vicinity of a municipal landfill complex for monitoring data from 1995, 2003, 2010, and 2021 and in the context of average statistical data about Poles. The calculations take into account an extended range of parameters, including sulphates, chlorides, and ammonium ions. The calculation results for the Horizontal ratio indicate that it should not be used for all parameters. This was mainly reflected in the low sulfate content of the water monitored by a piezometer directly below the old landfill. Other indicators, reaching as high as around 2000 (the Nemerow Pollution Index) or approx. 18,000 (the enrichment factor), confirm the negative impact of the landfill. The Hazard Index values reached almost 700, which would indicate a high risk to human health when consuming water with similar parameters. Overall, the results illustrate that using the selected indices to assess groundwater risk can be a valuable method for supporting long-term observations of groundwater quality, which can be used to make predictions using artificial intelligence methods.
Vibration Analysis of Multi-Branch Hydraulic Pipeline System Considering Fluid—Structure Interaction
Authors: Yu Tao , Zhang Zhongyi , Zhang Decong , Juan Mingxin , Jin Jie
Published: December 2022

A multi-branch pipeline is a typical structure, which is widely used in aerospace, marine and other hydraulic systems. The multi-branch pipeline suffers serious vibration from fluid–structure interaction, which can cause vibration failures in the pipeline system through overload in engineering fields. Vibrational analysis of the multi-branch pipeline system is increasing as part of the design of hydraulic system. In this paper, the finite element model of a multi-branch pipeline considering fluid—structure interaction is established, and the effectiveness of the modeling is validated through a comparison of the modal test for a typical four-way pipeline. The effects of the flow rate, pressure, fluid medium, pipe diameter, elastic constraint stiffness, and pipeline length and wall thickness on the dynamic characteristics of pipeline system are all considered. The obtained results indicate that the multi-branch junction suffering from significant vortex fluid is the main cause of fluid-induced vibration of the pipeline system. The fluid and structural parameters have great influence on the vibration characteristics of the pipeline, which can serve as an efficient tool in the design and maintenance of multi-branch hydraulic pipeline systems.
Applied AI with PLC and IRB1200
Authors: Rybczak Monika , Popowniak Natalia , Kozakiewicz Krystian
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the application of artificial intelligence applied to image classification according to CNN (Convolutional neutral network) algorithm. Two AI (artificial intelligence) models were submitted for verification. The first was based on mobilenet algorithm, and the second was based on the application of several layers of Convolution, ReLU and Maxpooling. After examining the AI, a solution using image classification was proposed for the IRB1200 robot, which encircles symbols assigned to color saturation on the detected colors. In the introduction, articles were selected that are related to the application of AI in various industries. The second section describes mathematical relationships for algorithms used in the project for image classification. Next, a multi-task control system for a robot is described, which performs specific tasks based on image verification by CNN-based artificial intelligence. The AI model and system handling reading of the image from a camera were submitted for verification, based on the tasks to be performed by the IRB1200 robotic arm based on color recognition. Verification was carried out in the head office of a company called Sii.
Expanding Moment Magnitude Pools for Earthquake Magnitude Homogenization
Authors: Yanto Ausatha Rabbanny , Yee Eric
Published: December 2022

A comparison on the influence of different moment magnitude pools on magnitude homogenization regressions was presented. The control moment magnitude pool is composed of earthquake records from GCMT. One version of expanding this base is to add earthquakes with a moment magnitude recorded by seismological agencies related to GCMT. Another approach to expanding the base is to add earthquakes from seismological agencies and projects that show a significant statistical correlation to GCMT via hypothesis testing. These moment magnitude pools were developed for Indonesia and South Korea. Magnitude homogenization was conducted by performing linear least squares regressions between the three moment magnitude pools and commonly used magnitude types from international seismological agencies ISC and NEIC. Magnitude homogenization regressions were also conducted on local Indonesian and South Korean agencies, DJA and KMA, respectively, with their various magnitude types. Most of the moment magnitude pools involving DJA and virtually all South Korean-related agencies ended up being identical, primarily due to the local magnitude types available for DJA, and the low number of earthquakes recorded for South Korea. A majority of the regression parameters for Indonesia and South Korea were statistically similar for surface and body wave magnitude types.
Comparing the Performance of Pivotless Tracking and Fixed-Type Floating Solar Power Systems
Authors: Jee Hongsub , Noh Yohan , Kim Minwoo , Lee Jaehyeong
Published: December 2022

Floating solar power has a higher power generation efficiency than existing solar power generation methods. It is easier to secure in an installation area as well as to connect to other renewable energy sources. Floating solar power is considered an essential component for achieving carbon neutrality because it compensates for the shortcomings of existing solar power systems and maximizes their advantages. In this study, a performance comparison was conducted between pivotless tracking-type and fixed-type solar power systems. These systems were installed at the Irwol Reservoir in Suwon, South Korea, and monitored for comparison between May 2019 and June 2020. The tracking-type system generated approximately 14% more energy than the fixed-type system; the performance was maximized in May, which showed 25.63% more output power, and the performance was minimized in winter, with 3% more generated power. Owing to its pivotless structure, this system can be used in the solar industry.
Dichotomization of Multilevel Variables to Detect Hidden Associations
Authors: López-Chau Asdrúbal , Rodriguez-Mazahua Lisbeth , García-Lamont Farid , Quintana-López Maricela , Rojas-Hernández Carlos A.
Published: December 2022

A test of independence is commonly used to determine differences (or associations) between samples in a nominal level measurement. Fisher’s exact test and Chi-square test are two of the most widely applied tests of independence used in the data analyses in different areas such as information technologies, biostatistics, psychology and health sciences. In some cases, contingency tables with null entries (also called random zeros) arise, particularly if the number of samples is small, and the variables analyzed are multilevel. This situation becomes a problem because if one or more entries in a contingency table are zero or have small values, then the tests of independence produce unreliable results. In this paper, we propose a method to address that issue. The method merges one or more levels of the variables analyzed to create contingency tables with only one degree of freedom, avoiding applying a test of independence on contingency tables with random zeros. The source code (Python) of the method is publicly available for use. The results obtained using our method give a complete panorama of the associations between the variables of a data set. To show the effectiveness of our approach to find dependencies between variables, we use four data sets publicly available on the Internet.
Enhanced Energy Storage Performance by Relaxor Highly Entropic (Ba0.2Na0.2K0.2La0.2Bi0.2)TiO3 and (Ba0.2Na0.2K0.2Mg0.2Bi0.2)TiO3 Ferroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Jabeen Nawishta , Hussain Ahmad , Qaiser Muhammad Adnan , Ali Jazib , Rehman Abdul , Sfina Nourreddine , Ali Gharieb A. , Tirth Vineet
Published: December 2022

Dielectric ceramic capacitors have attained considerable attention due to their energy storage performance in the field of advanced high/pulsed power capacitors. For such a purpose, configurationally disordered composite material engineering, with the substitution of suitable oxide cations at a single lattice site have demonstrated a strong dielectric relaxor phase with the ability to show high performance capacitive properties. Herein, two prominent high-entropy ceramics systems (Ba0.2Na0.2K0.2A0.2Bi0.2)TiO3, (with A = La and Mg) were fabricated to evaluate their structural, ferroelectric and dielectric properties. XRD patterns and Rietveld refinement of the XRD analysis confirmed the cubic structure Pm3¯m space group of the ceramics. The relative dielectric analysis of Ba0.2Na0.2K0.2La0.2Bi0.2TiO3 (BNKLBT) and Ba0.2Na0.2K0.2Mg0.2Bi0.2TiO3 (BNKMBT) ceramics were demonstrated with relaxor ferroelectric behavior having diffusion coefficients of 1.617 and 1.753, respectively. Moreover, BNKLBT and BNLMBT ceramics presented better stored energy density (1.062 J/cm3 and 0.8855 J/cm3, respectively) and high energy conversion efficiency (80.27% and 82.38%, respectively) at an electric field of 100 kV/cm. The results clearly demonstrate that such high-entropy configured ceramics have the potential to be used in efficient energy storage devices.
Variation Characteristics of Rainstorms and Floods in Southwest China and Their Relationships with Atmospheric Circulation in the Summer Half-Year
Authors: Xie Qingxia , Gu Xiaoping , Li Gang , Tang Tianran , Li Zhiyu
Published: December 2022

Local climates are responding to global warming differently, and the changes in rainstorms in mountainous areas of Southwest China are of particular interest. This study, using monthly NCEP/NCAR reanalysis and daily precipitation observation of 90 meteorological stations from 1961 to 2021, analyzed the temporal and spatial variation characteristics of rainstorms and floods in Southwest China and their relationship with atmospheric circulations. The results led us to the following five conclusions: (1) Rainstorms and floods in southwest China mainly occur from June to August, during which time July has the most weather events, followed by August. (2) The southwest of Guizhou province, the southern edge of Yunnan province, and regions from the east of the Sichuan Basin to the north of Guizhou have experienced more rainstorms and floods, while the northwest regions of Southwest China have had fewer. (3) Over the last 61 years, rainstorms and floods have exhibited an overall rising trend, especially in the last 10 years. The year 2012 was an abrupt inflection point in rainstorms and floods in Southwest China, from low to high frequency, while the correlation coefficient between rainstorms and floods and the global surface temperature is above the 95% significance level. (4) Rainstorms and floods exhibit changes at periods of 8 years, 16 years, and 31 years. (5) Rainstorms and floods show a good correlation with multiple variables, such as South Asian high-pressure systems west of 90°E, the upper trough front, the northwest side of the western Pacific subtropical high, and the convergence of warm and wet air in the middle and lower layers with cold air on the ground.
Approximation Theory and Related Applications
Authors: Kharkevych Yurii
Published: December 2022

The theory of approximation of functions is one of the central branches of mathematical analysis [...]
An Integrated Analysis of Mechanistic Insights into Biomolecular Interactions and Molecular Dynamics of Bio-Inspired Cu(II) and Zn(II) Complexes towards DNA/BSA/SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro by Molecular Docking-Based Virtual Screening and FRET Detection
Authors: Sakthikumar Karunganathan , Isamura Bienfait Kabuyaya , Krause Rui Werner Maçedo
Published: December 2022

Novel constructed bioactive mixed-ligand complexes (1b) [CuII(L)2(phen)] and (2b) [ZnII(L)2(phen)] {where, L = 2-(4-morpholinobenzylideneamino)phenol), phen = 1,10-phenanthroline} have been structurally analysed by various analytical and spectroscopic techniques, including, magnetic moments, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray crystallography. Various analytical and spectral measurements assigned showed that all complexes appear to have an octahedral geometry. Agar gel electrophoresis’s output demonstrated that the Cu(II) complex (1b) had efficient deoxyribonucleic cleavage and complex (2b) demonstrated the partial cleavage accomplished with an oxidation agent, which generates spreadable OH● through the Fenton type mechanism. The DNA binding constants observed from viscosity, UV–Vis spectral, fluorometric, and electrochemical titrations were in the following sequence: (1b) > (2b) > (HL), which suggests that the complexes (1b–2b) might intercalate DNA, a possibility that is supported by the biothermodynamic measurements. In addition, the observed binding constant results of BSA by electronic absorption and fluorometric titrations indicate that complex (1b) revealed the best binding efficacy as compared to complex (2b) and free ligand. Interestingly, all compounds are found to interact with BSA through a static approach, as further attested by FRET detection. The DFT and molecular docking calculations were also performed to realize the electronic structure, reactivity, and binding capability of all test samples with CT-DNA, BSA, and the SARS-CoV-2 3CLPro, which revealed the binding energies were in a range of −8.1 to −8.9, −7.5 to −10.5 and −6.7–−8.8 kcal/mol, respectively. The higher reactivity of the complexes than the free ligand is supported by the FMO theory. Among all the observed data for antioxidant properties against DPPH᛫, ᛫OH, O2−• and NO᛫ free radicals, complex (1a) had the best biological efficacy. The antimicrobial and cytotoxic characteristics of all test compounds have been studied by screening against certain selected microorganisms as well as against A549, HepG2, MCF-7, and NHDF cell lines, respectively. The observed findings revealed that the activity enhances coordination as compared to free ligand via Overtone’s and Tweedy’s chelation mechanisms. This is especially encouraging given that in every case, the experimental findings and theoretical detections were in perfect accord.
Neuropsychiatric Symptoms after Liver Transplantation in a 65-Year-Old Male Patient
Authors: Bugallo-Carrera Cesar , Facal David , Domínguez-Lenogue Cristina , Álvarez-Vidal Vanessa , Gandoy-Crego Manuel , Caamaño-Ponte José
Published: December 2022

The development of immunosuppressants has been key for the advancement of solid organ transplant surgery. Specifically, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or everolimus have significantly increased the survival rate of patients by reducing the risk of a rejection of the transplanted organ and limiting graft-versus-host disease. We report the case of a 65-year-old man who, after undergoing a liver transplantation and receiving an immunosuppressive treatment with cyclosporine and everolimus, presented severe obsessive, psychotic, and behavioral symptoms over the past three years, and describe the pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions implemented against these symptoms. In this case, the immunosuppressants used have been cyclosporine and, preferably, everolimus. On the other hand, potential adverse reactions to the treatment have been observed, including neuropsychiatric symptoms such as tremor, anxiety, dysthymia, psychosis, and behavioral disorders, which make it necessary to use corrective psychoactive drugs such as benzodiazepines, antidepressants, and antipsychotics, combined with non-pharmacological interventions. A transversal approach, from the medical and psychosocial disciplines, facilitates success in managing neuropsychiatric symptoms after soft organ transplants.
The Thermal Responses between Young Adults and Preschool Children in a Radiant Floor Heating Environment
Authors: Liu Dong , Liu Na , Ren Donglin , Wu Xiaozhou , Wang Jun , Tian Yabin , Hu Anjie , Wan Li , Wen Jialan
Published: December 2022

The thermal comfort of preschool children was assumed to be similar to that of young adults, which may cause inaccuracy. This study tested and analyzed the thermal response characteristics of young adults and preschool children (4–6 years old) and the differences in thermal sensation and thermal physiology between the two groups of participants in a room with a radiant floor heating system using the difference analysis methods (the paired data t-test, the Mann–Whitney U test and the Kruskal–Wallis H test). Participants were divided into two groups, young adults and preschoolers, and were sat in each condition while wearing winter clothing with a thermal resistance of 1.02 clo. The results showed that when the indoor temperature changed, there was a significant difference in the local skin temperature of the calf between the two groups of participants (p < 0.05). Preschool children adapt to the thermal environment better than adults, and the difference in metabolic rate is one of the influencing factors. The overall thermal sensation with mean skin temperature of the different populations was linearly correlated; correlation coefficients were 0.944 and 0.932, respectively. The overall thermal sensation of the participants was linear with respect to the indoor operative temperature. Preschool children have a higher thermal sensitivity to temperature change than young adults under low-temperature radiant floor heating systems, indicating that children have different thermal awareness from adults. There were significant differences in preschoolers’ subjective assessments of thermal sensation when the predicted mean vote (PMV) model was used as the evaluation standard; the difference ranged from 0.77 to 2.33. Thus, the PMV-predicted percentage dissatisfied (PPD) model is not suitable for preschool children.
Design of Economic Sustainability Supported by Enterprise Resource Planning Systems in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Authors: Mandičák Tomáš , Spišáková Marcela , Mésároš Peter , Kozlovská Mária
Published: December 2022

The implementation of information systems is a current topic, especially in the digital age and the digital economy. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems (such as some information systems) are a tool that can be used for information systems to enable the sustainable design of the management processes in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC). The focus of design for economic sustainability is defining selected key performance indicators and targeting good values for these indicators in AEC. The subject of this research was the idea that implementing ERP systems in construction management could positively affect the financial results; i.e., provide economic sustainability. This research analyzed the ways that these systems can reduce the costs and increase the revenues of construction companies. The aim of the research was to analyze the impact of the implementation of ERP systems on selected key performance indicators (costs and revenues) in AEC. A questionnaire was used as a tool to collect research data. It was distributed to construction companies operating in Slovakia. The research sample consisted of 125 respondents, of which 55 could be used for the research questions. Data processing was undertaken, with Cronbach’s alpha used to verify the suitability of the research questions and Fisher’s test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient used to confirm the dependence. The research confirmed the impact of ERP systems on cost reduction and revenue growth in the context of designing the economic sustainability of businesses in AEC.
Biodegradation of Crystalline and Nonaqueous Phase Liquid-Dissolved ATRAZINE by Arthrobacter sp. ST11 with Cd2+ Resistance
Authors: Zhang Jiameng , Yu Zhiliang , Gao Yaling , Wang Meini , Wang Kai , Pan Tao
Published: December 2022

A newly isolated cadmium (Cd)-resistant bacterial strain from herbicides-polluted soil in China could use atrazine as the sole carbon, nitrogen, and energy source for growth in a mineral salt medium (MSM). Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and physiochemical tests, the bacterium was identified as Arthrobacter sp. and named ST11. The biodegradation of atrazine by ST11 was investigated in experiments, with the compound present either as crystals or dissolved in di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) as a non-aqueous phase liquid (NAPL). After 48 h, ST11 consumed 68% of the crystalline atrazine in MSM. After being dissolved in DEHP, the degradation ratio of atrazine was reduced to 55% under the same conditions. Obviously, the NAPL-dissolved atrazine has lower bioavailability than the crystalline atrazine. Cd2+ at concentrations of 0.05–1.5 mmol/L either had no effect (<0.3 mmol/L), slight effects (0.5–1.0 mmol/L), or significantly (1.5 mmol/L) inhibited the growth of ST11 in Luria-Bertani medium. Correspondingly, in the whole concentration range (0.05–1.5 mmol/L), Cd2+ promoted ST11 to degrade atrazine, whether crystalline or dissolved in DEHP. Refusal to adsorb Cd2+ may be the main mechanism of high Cd resistance in ST11 cells. These results may provide valuable insights for the microbial treatment of arable soil co-polluted by atrazine and Cd.
Solvent Coordination Effect on Copper-Based Molecular Catalysts for Controlled Radical Polymerization
Authors: Racioppi Stefano , Orian Laura , Tubaro Cristina , Gennaro Armando , Isse Abdirisak Ahmed
Published: December 2022

The equilibrium of copper-catalyzed atom transfer radical polymerization was investigated in silico with the aim of finding an explanation for the experimentally observed solvent effect. Various combinations of alkyl halide initiators and copper complexes in acetonitrile (MeCN) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) were taken into consideration. A continuum model for solvation, which does not account for the explicit interactions between the solvent and metal complex, is not adequate and does not allow the reproduction of the experimental trend. However, when the solvent molecules are included in the coordination sphere of the copper(I,II) species and the continuum description of the medium is still used, a solvent dependence of process thermodynamics emerges, in fair agreement with experimental trends.
Innate Immune Memory in Monocytes and Macrophages: The Potential Therapeutic Strategies for Atherosclerosis
Authors: Guo Zhigang , Wang Lixue , Liu Hongjian , Xie Yuhuai
Published: December 2022

Atherosclerosis is a complex metabolic disease characterized by the dysfunction of lipid metabolism and chronic inflammation in the intimal space of the vessel. As the most abundant innate immune cells, monocyte-derived macrophages play a pivotal role in the inflammatory response, cholesterol metabolism, and foam cell formation. In recent decades, it has been demonstrated that monocytes and macrophages can establish innate immune memory (also termed trained immunity) via endogenous and exogenous atherogenic stimuli and exhibit a long-lasting proinflammatory phenotype. The important cellular metabolism processes, including glycolysis, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, fatty acid synthesis, and cholesterol synthesis, are reprogrammed. Trained monocytes/macrophages with innate immune memory can be persistently hyperactivated and can undergo extensive epigenetic rewiring, which contributes to the pathophysiological development of atherosclerosis via increased proinflammatory cytokine production and lipid accumulation. Here, we provide an overview of the regulation of cellular metabolic processes and epigenetic modifications of innate immune memory in monocytes/macrophages as well as the potential endogenous and exogenous stimulations involved in the progression of atherosclerosis that have been reported recently. These elucidations might be beneficial for further understanding innate immune memory and the development of therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases and atherosclerosis.