bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Value of Agroecosystem Services in Warmia and Mazury Province Using Choice Experiments
Authors: Bielski Stanisław , Marks-Bielska Renata , Novikova Anastasija , Vaznonis Bernardas
Published: December 2020

Due to the often-intangible benefits of agroecosystem services (AES), their cultural, social, and economic value is very difficult to quantify and integrate into decision-making and policy-making processes. The aim of this study is to assess the non-market values of AES in an exceptionally environmentally rich area of the Warmia and Mazury region (Poland), identifying consumers’ preferences for them using the choice experiment (CE) method. Four AES attributes were selected for the research: (i) water quality; (ii) wildlife populations; and (iii) agricultural landscape. The study has revealed that the residents of Warmia and Mazury region were concerned about environmental issues that may be caused by agriculture. There was a demand for the provision of AES. The application of multinomial logit (MNL) model has revealed that marginal willingness to pay (MWTP) values were the highest for water quality (EUR 1.94), followed by wildlife population (EUR 1.02) and agricultural landscape (EUR 0.85). The findings have provided quantitative information related to the demand for improvements in AES through agri-environmental protection programs.
Impact of Different Barley-Based Cropping Systems on Soil Physicochemical Properties and Barley Growth under Conventional and Conservation Tillage Systems
Authors: Naeem Muhammad , Mehboob Noman , Farooq Muhammad , Farooq Shahid , Hussain Shahid , M. Ali Hayssam , Hussain Mubshar
Published: December 2020

This two-year study observed the influence of various barley-based cropping systems on soil physicochemical properties, allometric traits and biomass production of barley sown under different tillage systems. Barley was cultivated in different cropping systems (CS), i.e., fallow-barley (fallow-B), maize-barley (maize-B), cotton-barley (cotton-B), mungbean-barley (mungbean-B) and sorghum-barley (sorghum-B) under zero tillage (ZT), minimum tillage (MT), strip tillage (ST), conventional tillage (CT) and bed-sowing (BS). Interaction between different CS and tillage systems (TS) positively influenced soil bulk density (BD), total porosity, available phosphorus (P), ammonical and nitrate nitrogen (NH4-N and NO3-N), available potassium (K), allometric traits and biomass production of barley. The highest soil BD along with lower total porosity were noted in ZT leading to lesser leaf area index (LAI), leaf area duration (LAD), specific leaf area (SLA), crop growth rate (CGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) of barley. Nonetheless, bed-sown barley produced the highest biomass due to better crop allometry and soil physical conditions. The highest postharvest soil available P, NH4-N, NO3-N, and K were recorded for zero-tilled barley, while BS followed by CT recorded the lowest nutrient contents. Barley in mungbean-B CS with BS produced the highest biomass, while the lowest biomass production was recorded for barely sown in fallow-B cropping system with ZT. In conclusion, barley sown after mungbean (mungbean-B cropping system) with BS seems a pragmatic choice for improving soil fertility and subsequently soil health.
Determining the Combining Ability and Gene Action for Rice Yellow Mottle Virus Disease Resistance and Agronomic Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Suvi William Titus , Shimelis Hussein , Laing Mark , Mathew Isack , Shayanowako Admire I. T.
Published: December 2020

Selecting genetically diverse and complementary parental lines and superior crosses are pre-requisites in developing improved cultivars. The objectives of this study were to determine the combining ability effects and gene action conditioning rice yellow mottle virus disease (RYMVD) resistance and agronomic traits in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Ten parental lines and their 45 F2 progenies were field evaluated in three locations using a 5 × 11 alpha lattice design with two replications. The genotype × site interaction effects were significant (p < 0.05) for the number of tillers (NT), number of panicles per plant (NPP), number of grains per panicle (NGP), percentage of filled grains (PFG), thousand grain weight (TGW), RYMVD resistance and grain yield (GY). The analysis of general and specific combining ability (GCA and SCA) indicated involvement of both additive and non-additive gene action governing inheritance of traits. High GCA/SCA ratio estimate revealed additive genetic effect was predominant. Parental lines Mwangaza, Lunyuki, Salama M-57, Salama M-19, IRAT 256 and Salama M-55, which had negative GCA effects for RYMVD, and families such as SARO 5 × Salama M-55, IRAT 245 × Rangimbili, Rangimbili × Gigante and Rangimbili × Mwangaza, which had negative SCA effects for RYMVD, were selected for RYMV resistance breeding. The crosses Rangimbili × Gigante, Gigante × Salama M-19 and Rangimbili × Salama M-55 were selected due to their desirable SCA effects for GY. The predominance of additive gene effects for agronomic traits and RYMVD resistance in the present breeding populations suggested that rice improvement could be achieved through gene introgression using recurrent selection.
Effects of a Paediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Program on Antimicrobial Use and Quality of Prescriptions in Patients with Appendix-Related Intraabdominal Infections
Authors: Simó Sílvia , Velasco-Arnaiz Eneritz , Ríos-Barnés María , López-Ramos María Goretti , Monsonís Manuel , Urrea-Ayala Mireia , Jordan Iolanda , Casadevall-Llandrich Ricard , Ormazábal-Kirchner Daniel , Cuadras-Pallejà Daniel , Tarrado Xavier , Prat Jordi , Sánchez Emília , Noguera-Julian Antoni , Fortuny Clàudia
Published: December 2020

The effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASP) in reducing antimicrobial use (AU) in children has been proved. Many interventions have been described suitable for different institution sizes, priorities, and patients, with surgical wards being one of the areas that may benefit the most. We aimed to describe the results on AU and length of stay (LOS) in a pre-post study during the three years before (2014–2016) and the three years after (2017–2019) implementation of an ASP based on postprescription review with feedback in children and adolescents admitted for appendix-related intraabdominal infections (AR-IAI) in a European Referral Paediatric University Hospital. In the postintervention period, the quality of prescriptions (QP) was also evaluated. Overall, 2021 AR-IAIs admissions were included. Global AU, measured both as days of therapy/100 patient days (DOT/100PD) and length of therapy (LOT), and global LOS remained unchanged in the postintervention period. Phlegmonous appendicitis LOS (p = 0.003) and LOT (p < 0.001) significantly decreased, but not those of other AR-IAI diagnoses. The use of piperacillin–tazobactam decreased by 96% (p = 0.044), with no rebound in the use of other Gram-negative broad-spectrum antimicrobials. A quasisignificant (p = 0.052) increase in QP was observed upon ASP implementation. Readmission and case fatality rates remained stable. ASP interventions were safe, and they reduced LOS and LOT of phlegmonous appendicitis and the use of selected broad-spectrum antimicrobials, while increasing QP in children with AR-IAI.
Multidrug-Resistant Micro-Organisms Associated with Urinary Tract Infections in Orthopedic Patients: A Retrospective Laboratory-Based Study
Authors: Ziółkowski Grzegorz , Pawłowska Iwona , Stasiowski Michał , Jachowicz Estera , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga , Bielecki Tomasz
Published: December 2020

Background: The risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in surgical wards remains closely related to the type of surgery and procedures performed on patients. Those factors also condition the risk of various forms of clinical infections, especially urinary tract infections (UTIs). UTIs are most frequently (70–80% of cases) caused by the use of bladder catheter in the perioperative period. The aim of this study was to perform an epidemiological and microbiological analysis of UTIs in orthopedic patients, with an emphasis on multidrug-resistant (MDR) micro-organisms. Methods: The study was conducted in a 38-bed Department of Orthopedic-Traumatic Surgery in Sosnowiec, Poland. 5239 patients, operated on in 2013–2015, were included in the study. The urinary catheter use rate was 30.7%. Laboratory-based study used the UTI definition of the HAI-Net program. A micro-organism was declared MDR if it was resistant to at least one antibiotic from three or more groups of antibacterial drugs, and extensively drug-resistant (XDR) if it was sensitive to antibiotics from no more than two groups of drugs. Results: The UTI incidence was 3.2% (168 cases), the CA-UTI incidence density was 9.6/1000 catheter days. The highest risk of UTI was found in patients aged 75 or older. Monomicrobial cultures were detected in 163 specimens (78% of all microbiologically confirmed UTIs). Gram-negative flora prevailed among the micro-organisms, the predominantly isolated Enterobacteriaceae being Escherichiacoli and Klebsiellapneumoniae. In 16 patients (7.7% of microbiologically confirmed UTIs), yeast infection was confirmed. Isolated micro-organisms were fully sensitive to carbapenems. Gram-negative bacilli showed the lowest sensitivity to extended substrate spectrum penicillins and fluoroquinolones (37–64%), as well as to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (50%). The MDR prevalence was 24.4%. Conclusions: The presented data indicates that UTIs are a significant problem in the studied population, so is antimicrobial resistance, especially to quinolones, and extended-spectrum cephalosporins, which are often used as first-line therapy. To tackle the problem of high UTI incidence and MDR prevalence, reducing the UTI risk factors should be prioritized.
Velody 2—Resilient High-Capacity MIDI Steganography for Organ and Harpsichord Music
Authors: Järpe Eric , Weckstén Mattias
Published: December 2020

A new method for musical steganography for the MIDI format is presented. The MIDI standard is a user-friendly music technology protocol that is frequently deployed by composers of different levels of ambition. There is to the author’s knowledge no fully implemented and rigorously specified, publicly available method for MIDI steganography. The goal of this study, however, is to investigate how a novel MIDI steganography algorithm can be implemented by manipulation of the velocity attribute subject to restrictions of capacity and security. Many of today’s MIDI steganography methods—less rigorously described in the literature—fail to be resilient to steganalysis. Traces (such as artefacts in the MIDI code which would not occur by the mere generation of MIDI music: MIDI file size inflation, radical changes in mean absolute error or peak signal-to-noise ratio of certain kinds of MIDI events or even audible effects in the stego MIDI file) that could catch the eye of a scrutinizing steganalyst are side-effects of many current methods described in the literature. This steganalysis resilience is an imperative property of the steganography method. However, by restricting the carrier MIDI files to classical organ and harpsichord pieces, the problem of velocities following the mood of the music can be avoided. The proposed method, called Velody 2, is found to be on par with or better than the cutting edge alternative methods regarding capacity and inflation while still possessing a better resilience against steganalysis. An audibility test was conducted to check that there are no signs of audible traces in the stego MIDI files.
Method of Calculating the Compensation for Rectifying the Horizontal Displacement of Existing Tunnels by Grouting
Authors: Qi Yongjie , Wei Gang , Feng Feifan , Zhu Jiaxuan
Published: December 2020

Sleeve valve pipe grouting, an effective method for reinforcing soil layers, is often employed to correct the deformation of subway tunnels. In order to study the effect of grouting on rectifying the displacement of existing tunnels, this paper proposes a mechanical model of the volume expansion of sleeve valve pipe grouting taking into consideration the volume expansion of the grouted soil mass. A formula for the additional stress on the soil layer caused by grouting was derived based on the principle of the mirror method. In addition, a formula for the horizontal displacement of a tunnel caused by grouting was developed through a calculation model of shearing dislocation and rigid body rotation. The results of the calculation method proposed herein were in good agreement with actual engineering data. In summary, enlarging the grouting volume within a reasonable range can effectively enhance the grouting corrective effect. Further, with an increase in the grouting distance, the influence of grouting gradually lessens. At a constant grouting length, setting the bottom of the grouting section at the same depth as the lower end of the tunnel can maximize the grouting corrective effect.
An Android and Arduino Based Low-Cost Educational Robot with Applied Intelligent Control and Machine Learning
Authors: Lopez-Rodriguez Francisco M. , Cuesta Federico
Published: December 2020

Applied Science requires testbeds to carry out experiments and validate in practice the results of the application of the methods. This article presents a low-cost (35–40 euros) educational mobile robot, based on Android and Arduino, integrated with Robot Operating System (ROS), together with its application for learning and teaching in the domain of intelligent automatic control, computer vision and Machine Learning. Specifically, the practical application to visual path tracking integrated with a Fuzzy Collision Risk system, that avoids collision with obstacles ahead, is shown. Likewise, a Wi-Fi positioning system is presented, which allows identifying in which room the robot is located, based on self-collected data and Machine Learning.
Renaturation of Lyophilized Concanavalin a Treated in Water Content Controlled Hydrated Ionic Liquids
Authors: Fujita Kyoko , Fujii Ryota , Ichida Kimiyoshi
Published: December 2020

A fraction of commercially available lyophilized concanavalin A (ConA) shows low mannose binding activity. In this study, we investigated the effects of the component ion and water content of hydrated ionic liquids (ILs) as treatment solvent on the mannose binding ability of lyophilized ConA. While high mannose binding ability was observed treated in hydrated ILs composed of dihydrogen phosphate anion with three water molecules per ion pair, it decreased with increase in water content. In contrast, no increase in mannose binding ability was observed after treatment with hydrated ILs composed of bromide anions. A steady response in mannose binding was observed after treatment with hydrated cholinium dihydrogen phosphate ([ch][dhp]). Following treatment with hydrated [ch][dhp] with three water molecules per ion pair, the mannose binding ability of lyophilized ConA increased twofold, while the low and high mannose binding ConA fraction showed an increase of 3.3 and 1.8 in the binding response, respectively.
Continuous-Wave THz Imaging for Biomedical Samples
Authors: Zhang Yaya , Wang Chuting , Huai Bingxin , Wang Shiyu , Zhang Yating , Wang Dayong , Rong Lu , Zheng Yongchang
Published: December 2020

In the past few decades, the applications of terahertz (THz) spectroscopy and imaging technology have seen significant developments in the fields of biology, medical diagnosis, food safety, and nondestructive testing. Label-free diagnosis of malignant tumours has been obtained and also achieved significant development in THz biomedical imaging. This review mainly presents the research status and prospects of several common continuous-wave (CW) THz medical imaging systems and applications of THz medical imaging in biological tissues. Here, we first introduce the properties of THz waves and how these properties play a role in biomedical imaging. Then, we analyse both the advantages and disadvantages of the CW THz imaging methods and the progress of these methods in THz biomedical imaging in recent ten years. Finally, we summarise the obstacles in the way of the application of THz bio-imaging application technology in clinical detection, which need to be investigated and overcome in the future.
A Label-Free Optical Detection of Pathogens in Isopropanol as a First Step towards Real-Time Infection Prevention
Authors: Claudinon Julie , Steltenkamp Siegfried , Fink Manuel , Sych Taras , Verreman Benoît , Römer Winfried , Madec Morgan
Published: December 2020

The detection of pathogens is a major public health issue. Every year, thousands of people die because of nosocomial infections. It is therefore important to be able to detect possible outbreaks as early as possible, especially in the hospital environment. Various pathogen detection techniques have already been demonstrated. However, most of them require expensive and specific equipment, and/or complex protocols, which, most of the time, involve biochemical reaction and labelling steps. In this paper, a new method that combines microscopic imaging and machine learning is described. The main benefits of this approach are to be low-cost, label-free and easy to integrate in any suitable medical device, such as hand hygiene dispensers. The suitability of this pathogen detection method is validated using four bacteria, both in PBS (Phosphate Buffered Saline) and in isopropanol. In particular, we demonstrated an efficient pathogenic detection that is sensible to changes in the composition of a mixture of pathogens, even in alcohol-based solutions.
Effects of Functional Electrical Stimulation Cycling of Different Duration on Viscoelastic and Electromyographic Properties of the Knee in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Casabona Antonino , Valle Maria Stella , Dominante Claudio , Laudani Luca , Onesta Maria Pia , Cioni Matteo
Published: December 2020

The benefits of functional electrical stimulation during cycling (FES-cycling) have been ascertained following spinal cord injury. The instrumented pendulum test was applied to chronic paraplegic patients to investigate the effects of FES-cycling of different duration (20-min vs. 40-min) on biomechanical and electromyographic characterization of knee mobility. Seven adults with post-traumatic paraplegia attended two FES-cycling sessions, a 20-min and a 40-min one, in a random order. Knee angular excursion, stiffness and viscosity were measured using the pendulum test before and after each session. Surface electromyographic activity was recorded from the rectus femoris (RF) and biceps femoris (BF) muscles. FES-cycling led to reduced excursion (p < 0.001) and increased stiffness (p = 0.005) of the knee, which was more evident after the 20-min than 40-min session. Noteworthy, biomechanical changes were associated with an increase of muscle activity and changes in latency of muscle activity only for 20-min, with anticipated response times for RF (p < 0.001) and delayed responses for BF (p = 0.033). These results indicate that significant functional changes in knee mobility can be achieved by FES-cycling for 20 min, as evaluated by the pendulum test in patients with chronic paraplegia. The observed muscle behaviour suggests modulatory effects of exercise on spinal network aimed to partially restore automatic neuronal processes.
A Paradigm Revolution or Just Better Resolution—Will Newly Emerging Superresolution Techniques Identify Chromatin Architecture as a Key Factor in Radiation-Induced DNA Damage and Repair Regulation?
Authors: Falk Martin , Hausmann Michael
Published: December 2020

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) have been recognized as the most serious lesions in irradiated cells. While several biochemical pathways capable of repairing these lesions have been identified, the mechanisms by which cells select a specific pathway for activation at a given DSB site remain poorly understood. Our knowledge of DSB induction and repair has increased dramatically since the discovery of ionizing radiation-induced foci (IRIFs), initiating the possibility of spatiotemporally monitoring the assembly and disassembly of repair complexes in single cells. IRIF exploration revealed that all post-irradiation processes—DSB formation, repair and misrepair—are strongly dependent on the characteristics of DSB damage and the microarchitecture of the whole affected chromatin domain in addition to the cell status. The microscale features of IRIFs, such as their morphology, mobility, spatiotemporal distribution, and persistence kinetics, have been linked to repair mechanisms. However, the influence of various biochemical and structural factors and their specific combinations on IRIF architecture remains unknown, as does the hierarchy of these factors in the decision-making process for a particular repair mechanism at each individual DSB site. New insights into the relationship between the physical properties of the incident radiation, chromatin architecture, IRIF architecture, and DSB repair mechanisms and repair efficiency are expected from recent developments in optical superresolution microscopy (nanoscopy) techniques that have shifted our ability to analyze chromatin and IRIF architectures towards the nanoscale. In the present review, we discuss this relationship, attempt to correlate still rather isolated nanoscale studies with already better-understood aspects of DSB repair at the microscale, and consider whether newly emerging “correlated multiscale structuromics” can revolutionarily enhance our knowledge in this field.
Immunocompetent Mouse Models in the Search for Effective Immunotherapy in Glioblastoma
Authors: Wouters Roxanne , Bevers Sien , Riva Matteo , De Smet Frederik , Coosemans An
Published: December 2020

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive intrinsic brain tumor in adults. Despite maximal therapy consisting of surgery and radio/chemotherapy, GBM remains largely incurable with a median survival of less than 15 months. GBM has a strong immunosuppressive nature with a multitude of tumor and microenvironment (TME) derived factors that prohibit an effective immune response. To date, all clinical trials failed to provide lasting clinical efficacy, despite the relatively high success rates of preclinical studies to show effectivity of immunotherapy. Various factors may explain this discrepancy, including the inability of a single mouse model to fully recapitulate the complexity and heterogeneity of GBM. It is therefore critical to understand the features and limitations of each model, which should probably be combined to grab the full spectrum of the disease. In this review, we summarize the available knowledge concerning immune composition, stem cell characteristics and response to standard-of-care and immunotherapeutics for the most commonly available immunocompetent mouse models of GBM.
Global Genome Demethylation Causes Transcription-Associated DNA Double Strand Breaks in HPV-Associated Head and Neck Cancer Cells
Authors: Hajek Michael , Biktasova Asel , Sewell Andrew , Gary Cyril , Cantalupo Paul , Anderson Karen S. , Yarbrough Wendell G. , Issaeva Natalia
Published: December 2020

High levels of DNA methylation at CpG loci are associated with transcriptional repression of tumor suppressor genes and dysregulation of DNA repair genes. Human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) have high levels of DNA methylation and methylation has been associated with dampening of an innate immune response in virally infected cells. We have been exploring demethylation as a potential treatment in HPV+ HNSCC and recently reported results of a window clinical trial showing that HNSCCs are particularly sensitive to demethylating agent 5-azacytidine (5-aza). Mechanistically, sensitivity is partially due to downregulation of HPV genes expression and restoration of tumor suppressors p53 and Rb. Here, for the first time, we show that 5-azaC treatment of HPV+ HNSCC induces replication and transcription-associated DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) that occur preferentially at demethylated genomic DNA. Blocking replication or transcription prevented formation of DNA DSBs and reduced sensitivity of HPV-positive head and neck cancer cells to 5-azaC, demonstrating that both replication and active transcription are required for formation of DSBs associated with 5-azaC.
Review on Carbon Dioxide Utilization for Cycloaddition of Epoxides by Ionic Liquid-Modified Hybrid Catalysts: Effect of Influential Parameters and Mechanisms Insight
Authors: Appaturi Jimmy Nelson , Ramalingam Rajabathar. Jothi , Gnanamani Muthu Kumaran , Periyasami Govindasami , Arunachalam Prabhakarn , Adnan Rohana , Adam Farook , Wasmiah Mohammed D. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A.
Published: December 2020

The storage, utilization, and control of the greenhouse (CO2) gas is a topic of interest for researchers in academia and society. The present review article is dedicating to cover the overall role of ionic liquid-modified hybrid materials in cycloaddition reactions. Special emphasis is on the synthesis of various cyclic carbonate using ionic liquid-based modified catalysts. Catalytic activity studies have discussed with respect to process conditions and their effects on conversion and product selectivity for the reaction of cycloaddition of CO2 with styrene oxide. The reaction temperature and the partial pressure of CO2 have found to play a key role in cyclic carbonate formation. The role of other influential parameter (solvent effect) is also discussed for the conversion of cyclic/aromatic oxides to polycarbonate production. Our own research work that deals with ionic liquid-based halide-modified mesoporous catalyst (MCM-41 type) derived from rice husk waste has also been discussed. Finally, the role of carbon dioxide activation and ring-opening mechanisms involved in the cyclic carbonate product formation from CO2 have been discussed.
Effect of Chitosan Coating on PLGA Nanoparticles for Oral Delivery of Thymoquinone: In Vitro, Ex Vivo, and Cancer Cell Line Assessments
Authors: Alshehri Sultan , Imam Syed Sarim , Rizwanullah Md , Fakhri Khalid Umar , Rizvi Mohd Moshahid Alam , Mahdi Wael , Kazi Mohsin
Published: December 2020

In the present study, thymoquinone (TQ)-encapsulated chitosan- (CS)-coated poly(d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) were formulated using the emulsion evaporation method. NPs were optimized by using 33-QbD approach for improved efficacy against breast cancer. The optimized thymoquinone loaded chitosan coated Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (TQ-CS-PLGA-NPs) were successfully characterized by different in vitro and ex vivo experiments as well as evaluated for cytotoxicity in MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cell lines. The surface coating of PLGA-NPs was completed by CS coating and there were no significant changes in particle size and entrapment efficiency (EE) observed. The developed TQ-CS-PLGA-NPs showed particle size, polydispersibility index (PDI), and %EE in the range between 126.03–196.71 nm, 0.118–0.205, and 62.75%–92.17%. The high and prolonged TQ release rate was achieved from TQ-PLGA-NPs and TQ-CS-PLGA-NPs. The optimized TQ-CS-PLGA-NPs showed significantly higher mucoadhesion and intestinal permeation compared to uncoated TQ-PLGA-NPs and TQ suspension. Furthermore, TQ-CS-PLGA-NPs showed statistically enhanced antioxidant potential and cytotoxicity against MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells compared to uncoated TQ-PLGA-NPs and pure TQ. On the basis of the above findings, it may be stated that chitosan-coated TQ-PLGA-NPs represent a great potential for breast cancer management.
Optical and Photodetection Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles Recovered from Zn Dross
Authors: Diguna Lina Jaya , Fitriani Aprilia Dyah , Liasari Beta Riana , Timuda Gerald Ensang , Widayatno Wahyu Bambang , Wismogroho Agus Sukarto , Zeng Shuwen , Birowosuto Muhammad Danang , Amal Muhamad Ikhlasul
Published: December 2020

In this study, we report the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from Zn dross via hydrometallurgical method by using acetic acid as a leaching agent. D205 dye molecules were then adsorbed onto Zn dross originated ZnO nanoparticle film. The optical absorption confirms the photosensitization of the synthesized ZnO nanoparticles with dye. The photoluminescence spectra reveal the excitonic- and defect-related emission of ZnO nanoparticles. Compared to ZnO nanoparticles only, the longer emission lifetime of ZnO nanoparticles with adsorbed dye indicates the transfer of photoexcited electrons from dye to the ZnO nanoparticles. Furthermore, photodetection characterization of ZnO film show the enhanced current density with the presence of dye under simulated solar illumination, while that measured at dark is similar in both films with and without dye. This result confirms the potentiality of Zn dross to be recycled into valuable ZnO nanoparticles particularly for the applications in the visible light region, especially for sensing.
Influence of Temperature on the Moisture Transport in Concrete
Authors: Zhang Qingzhang , Kang Zihan , Ling Yifeng , Chen Hui , Li Kangzong
Published: December 2020

Moisture with harmful ions penetrates into the interior of concrete, which causes deterioration of the concrete structure. In this study, a moisture saturation equilibrium relationship of concrete was tested under different temperatures and relative humidity conditions to develop moisture absorption and desorption curves. Based on experimental data and numerical simulation, a model of moisture transport in concrete was established. The results from the model indicate that the moisture absorption rate was lower at higher temperatures and largely dependent on the saturation gradient, while the desorption was increased at higher temperatures and mostly affected by the saturation gradient. The proposed model was highly in agreement with the experimental data.
The Role of Gut, Vaginal, and Urinary Microbiome in Urinary Tract Infections: From Bench to Bedside
Authors: Meštrović Tomislav , Matijašić Mario , Perić Mihaela , Čipčić Paljetak Hana , Barešić Anja , Verbanac Donatella
Published: December 2020

The current paradigm of urinary tract infection (UTI) pathogenesis takes into account the contamination of the periurethral space by specific uropathogens residing in the gut, which is followed by urethral colonization and pathogen ascension to the urinary bladder. Consequently, studying the relationship between gut microbiota and the subsequent development of bacteriuria and UTI represents an important field of research. However, the well-established diagnostic and therapeutic paradigm for urinary tract infections (UTIs) has come into question with the discovery of a multifaceted, symbiotic microbiome in the healthy urogenital tract. More specifically, emerging data suggest that vaginal dysbiosis may result in Escherichia coli colonization and prompt recurrent UTIs, while urinary microbiome perturbations may precede the development of UTIs and other pathologic conditions of the urinary system. The question is whether these findings can be exploited for risk reduction and treatment purposes. This review aimed to appraise the three aforementioned specific microbiomes regarding their potential influence on UTI development by focusing on the recent studies in the field and assessing the potential linkages between these different niches, as well as evaluating the state of translational research for novel therapeutic and preventative approaches.
Accelerometric Assessment of Postural Balance in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: García-Soidán Jose L. , Leirós-Rodríguez Raquel , Romo-Pérez Vicente , García-Liñeira Jesús
Published: December 2020

The correct development of postural control in children is fundamental to ensure that they fully reach their psychomotor capacities. However, this capacity is one of the least studied in the clinical and academic scope regarding children. The objective of this study was to analyze the degree of implementation of accelerometry as an evaluation technique for postural control in children and how it is being used. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, SpringerLink, SportsDiscus, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science with the following terms: balance, postural control, children, kids, accelerometry, and accelerometer. Results: The search generated a total of 18 articles. Two groups of studies were differentiated: those which exclusively included healthy individuals (n = 5) and those which included children with pathologies (n = 13). Accelerometry is being used in children mainly to assess the gait and static balance, as well as to identify the differences between healthy children and children with developmental disorders. Conclusions: Accelerometry has a discrete degree of implementation as an evaluation tool to assess postural control. It is necessary to define a systematic method for the evaluation of postural control in pediatrics, in order to delve into the development of this capacity and its alterations in different neurodevelopmental disorders.
Extracting Work Optimally with Imprecise Measurements
Authors: Dinis Luis , Parrondo Juan Manuel Rodríguez
Published: December 2020

Measurement and feedback allows for an external agent to extract work from a system in contact with a single thermal bath. The maximum amount of work that can be extracted in a single measurement and the corresponding feedback loop is given by the information that is acquired via the measurement, a result that manifests the close relation between information theory and stochastic thermodynamics. In this paper, we show how to reversibly confine a Brownian particle in an optical tweezer potential and then extract the corresponding increase of the free energy as work. By repeatedly tracking the position of the particle and modifying the potential accordingly, we can extract work optimally, even with a high degree of inaccuracy in the measurements.
A Framework for the Attack Tolerance of Cloud Applications Based on Web Services
Authors: Ouffoué Georges , Zaïdi Fatiha , Cavalli Ana R. , Nguyen Huu Nghia
Published: December 2020

Information systems of companies and organizations are increasingly designed using web services that allow different applications written in different programming languages to communicate. These systems or some parts of them are often outsourced on the cloud, first to leverage the benefits of cloud platforms (e.g., scalability) and also to reduce operational costs of companies as well. However, web services as well as cloud platforms may be the target of attacks that alter their security, and the security of web services is not completely addressed. The solutions proposed in the literature are sometimes specific to certain types of attacks and they cannot ensure the attack tolerance of web services. Attack tolerance can be defined as the capability of a system to function properly with minimal degradation of performance, even if the presence of an attack is detected. As such, we claim that, to achieve attack tolerance, one should detect attacks by a continuous monitoring and mitigate the effects of these attacks by reliable reaction mechanisms. For this aim, an attack tolerance framework is proposed in this paper. This framework includes the risks analysis of attacks and is based on diversification and software reflection techniques. We applied this framework to cloud applications that are based on web services. After describing the core foundation of this approach, we express such cloud applications as choreographies of web services according to their distributed nature. The framework has been validated through an electronic voting system. The results of these experiments show the capability of the framework to ensure the required attack tolerance of cloud applications.
A Framed Slotted ALOHA-Based MAC for Eliminating Vain Wireless Power Transfer in Wireless Powered IoT Networks
Authors: Lin Ying-Jen , Tzeng Show-Shiow
Published: December 2020

Multiple access control (MAC) is crucial for devices to send data packets and harvest wireless energy in wireless powered Internet of Things (IoT) networks. A framed slotted ALOHA (FSA) protocol is employed in several practical networks. This paper studies an FSA-based MAC in a centralized wireless powered IoT network, including half-duplex devices and a full-duplex base station transmitting wireless energy in an intended direction. Under such a network, it is possible that a half-duplex device contends for a time slot to transmit a packet while the base station transmits wireless energy to the device in the same time slot, which causes vain charging and wastes the opportunity to charge other devices. To eliminate the vain charging, this paper designs a MAC in which a base station utilizes the information conveyed from devices in advance to arrange the charging order of devices. The novelty is to develop an algorithm to find a charging order of half-duplex devices instead of using full-duplex devices to eliminate the vain charging. Event-driven simulations are conducted to study the performance of the proposed MAC. Simulation results show that the proposed MAC produces better system performances than the system not eliminating the vain charging. In summary, the application of the proposed MAC yields the benefits of higher throughput and lower packet loss.
Numerical Simulations of DDT Limits in Hydrogen-Air Mixtures in Obstacle Laden Channel
Authors: Rudy Wojciech , Teodorczyk Andrzej
Published: December 2020

The main aim of this study was to perform numerical simulations of deflagration to detonation transition process (DDT) in hydrogen–air mixtures and assess the capabilities of freeware open-source ddtFoam code to simulate and capture DDT limits. The numerical geometry was based on the real 0.08 × 0.11 × 4 m (H × W × L), rectangular cross-section detonation channel previously used to experimentally investigate DDT limits in obstacle-filled channel. The constant blockage ratio (BR) equal to 0.5 was kept for three obstacle spacing configurations: S = H, 2H, 3H. The results showed that hydrogen concentration limits for successful DDT from simulations are close to the experimental values, however, the simulated DDT limits range is wider than the experimental one and depends on the obstacles spacing. The numerical results were analyzed by means of propagation velocities, overpressures, and run-up distances. The best match between numerical and experimental DDT limits was observed for obstacles spacing L = 3H and the lowest match for spacing L = H. The comparison between experimental and numerical results points at the possible application of ddtFoam in geometry with a relatively low level of congestion. This work results proved that simulations in such geometry provide numerical flame acceleration velocity profiles, run-up distance, and recorded overpressures very close to experimentally measured.
The Effect of Coupling Solar Thermal System and Geothermal Heat Pump Systems in Areas with Unbalanced Heating and Cooling Demand
Authors: Hwang Jihyun , Song Doosam , Lee Taewon
Published: December 2020

Geothermal source heat pump (GSHP) systems as renewable energy systems are being more frequently installed as part of the zero-energy building drive. However, in South Korea, where a large amount of heating load can be required, maintaining high system performance by using only a GSHP is difficult owing to the gradual degradation of its thermal performance. The performance of a solar-assisted GSHP system was therefore experimentally analyzed and compared with a GSHP-only system. The results showed that the heating coefficient of performance of the GSHP-only operation was 5.4, while that of the solar-assisted GSHP operation was 7.0. In the case of the GSHP-only system, the maximum temperature of the heat pump water supply on the heat source side was initially 13.1 °C, but this rapidly decreased to 11.4 °C during operation. For the solar-assisted GSHP system, the temperature of the water supply to the heat source side of the heat pump was controlled at 15–20.9 °C, and the power consumption for system operation was reduced by about 20% compared with that for the GSHP-only system. Much higher temperatures could be supplied when solar heat is used instead of ground heat, as solar heat contributes to the performance improvement of the heat pump system.
Precise Measurements of the Temperature-Frequency Dependence of the Conductivity of Cellulose—Insulating Oil—Water Nanoparticles Composite
Authors: Zukowski Pawel , Rogalski Przemyslaw , Koltunowicz Tomasz N. , Kierczynski Konrad , Bondariev Vitalii
Published: December 2020

This article presents direct σDC and alternating σ(f) current conductivity measurements obtained by the frequency domain spectroscopy (FDS) method on cellulose-transformer oil–water nanoparticle composite with a moisture content of (5.0 ± 0.2)% by weight in a temperature range from 293.15 to 333.15 K with step of 8 K. The uncertainty of temperature maintenance during measurements was below ±0.01 K. The sample was prepared for testing in a manner as close as possible to the cellulose insulation moisturizing process in power transformers. For the analysis of the results obtained, a model of alternating and direct current hopping conductivity was used, based on the quantum phenomenon of electron tunneling between the potential wells and nanodrops of water. It was observed that on the d(logσ)/d(logf)-derived waveforms there was a clear low-frequency maximum, and a tendency to reach the next maximum in the high-frequency area was visible. On this basis it was established that the increase in conductivity takes place in two stages. It was found that the position of σ(f) waveforms in the double logarithmic coordinates is influenced by the temperature dependence both of the conductivity and of the relaxation time of the conductivity. These relationships are described with the appropriate activation energies of the conductivity and relaxation time of conductivity. Based on the analysis of experimental data using Arrhenius diagrams, average values of the activation energy of conductivity ΔWσ ≈ (0.894 ± 0.0134) eV and the relaxation time of conductivity ΔWτσ ≈ (0.869 ± 0.0107) eV were determined. The values were equal within the limits of uncertainty and their mean value was ΔW ≈ (0.881 ± 0.0140) eV. Using the mean value of the activation energy, the frequency dependence of conductivity, obtained at different temperatures, was shifted to 293.15 K. For this purpose, first the waveforms were shifted along the horizontal and then the vertical axis. It was found that after the shift the σ(f) waveforms for the different temperatures overlap perfectly. This means that the shape of the frequency dependence of the conductivity is determined by the moisture content of the pressboard. The position of the waveforms in relation to the coordinates is determined by the temperature relationships of the conductivity and the relaxation time of the conductivity.
Fuzzy Logic Approach to Dissolved Gas Analysis for Power Transformer Failure Index and Fault Identification
Authors: Poonnoy Nitchamon , Suwanasri Cattareeya , Suwanasri Thanapong
Published: December 2020

This research focuses on problem identification due to faults in power transformers during operation by using dissolved gas analysis such as key gas, IEC ratio, Duval triangle techniques, and fuzzy logic approaches. Then, the condition of the power transformer is evaluated in terms of the percentage of failure index and internal fault determination. Fuzzy logic with the key gas approach was used to calculate the failure index and identify problems inside the power transformer. At the same time, the IEC three-gas ratio and Duval triangle are subsequently applied to confirm the problems in different failure types covering all possibilities inside the power transformer. After that, the fuzzy logic system was applied and validated with DGA results of 244 transformers as reference cases with satisfactory accuracy. Two transformers were evaluated and practically confirmed by the investigation results of an un-tanked power transformer. Finally, the DGA results of a total of 224 transformers were further evaluated by the fuzzy logic system. This fuzzy logic is a smart, accurate tool for automatically identifying faults occurring within transformers. Finally, the recommendation of maintenance strategy and time interval is proposed for effective planning to minimize the catastrophic damage, which could occur with the power transformer and its network.
Towards a Predictive Simulation of Turbulent Combustion?—An Assessment for Large Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Lauer Thomas , Frühhaber Jens
Published: December 2020

Frequently the question arises in what sense numerical simulation can be considered predictive if prior model tuning with test results is necessary. In this paper a summary of the present Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation methods for in-cylinder modelling is presented with a focus on combustion processes relevant for large engines. The current discussion about the sustainability of internal combustion engines will have a strong impact on applying advanced CFD methods in industrial processes. It is therefore included in the assessment. Simplifications and assumptions of turbulence, spray, and combustion models, as well as uncertainties of model boundary conditions, are discussed and the future potential of an advanced approach like Large Eddy Simulation (LES) is evaluated. It follows that a high amount of expertise and a careful evaluation of the numerical results will remain necessary in the future to apply the best-suited models for a given combustion process. New chemical mechanisms will have to be developed in order to represent prospective fuels like hydrogen or OME. Multi-injection or dual fuel combustion will further pose high requirements to the numerical methods. Therefore, the further development and validation of advanced mixture, combustion and emission models will remain important. Close cooperation between academia, code suppliers and engine manufacturers could promote the necessary progress.
High-Efficiency HVAC System with Defog/Dehumidification Function for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Chang Tong-Bou , Sheu Jer-Jia , Huang Jhong-Wei
Published: December 2020

Electric vehicles (EVs) generally use an electric heating system to provide heat. However, the heating system consumes a large amount of energy, and therefore reduces the mileage of the vehicle. The energy consumption can be reduced by replacing the electric heating system with a heat pump air conditioning system. Such systems achieve an effective heating of the vehicle interior, but do not provide a defog or dehumidification function. Consequently, the inside surface of the windshield tends to fog in cold weather; leading to poor driver visibility and an impaired road safety. Accordingly, the present study proposes a novel high-efficiency heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system with both heating and defog/dehumidification functions for electric vehicles. The effectiveness of the proposed system is investigated experimentally using a simulated cabin placed in a temperature and humidity-controlled test chamber. The experimental results confirm that the HVAC system achieves the required cooling, heating and defog/dehumidification functions and meets the corresponding standards. Moreover, the application of HVAC in EVs could lead to significant electrical power saving effect.