bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farming on Top: Rooftop Agriculture for Healthy Cities
Authors: Appolloni Elisa , Gianquinto Giorgio Prosdocimi
Published: April 2022

The world is facing many problems nowadays, including a growing number of people living in cities, many of whom often do not have easy access to fresh food. To solve this problem, it is necessary to develop a new kind of agriculture that provides city residents with food security while also protecting the environment. Rooftop agriculture could be a solution. Rooftop agriculture is a type of urban agriculture, in which food is grown on the tops of buildings. Rooftop agriculture can have many benefits. For example, it can reduce the extreme heat in the city during summer, it can help to decrease urban poverty, and it can help people to socialize more. In addition, rooftop agriculture can even benefit the buildings themselves. Rooftop agriculture is becoming more popular across the world, thanks to these benefits. We hope it will become an important part of the sustainable cities of the future.
Can Personalized Nutrition Improve People’s Diets?
Authors: Livingstone Katherine M. , Celis-Morales Carlos , Mathers John C.
Published: April 2022

Each person differs in physical characteristics such as eye color, but also in likes and dislikes. These differences are due to our genes and our environments, including what we eat. What we eat affects our health, and each of us has individual nutritional needs. This is the basis for the idea of personalized nutrition. In our research study, called the Food4Me Study, we tested whether personalized nutrition advice helped over 1,600 people to eat healthier diets. We collected information about each person, including what they ate, and we collected samples of saliva to examine their genes. We gave each person either the usual advice about healthy eating (such as “eat more vegetables”) or advice that was personalized based on the individual’s characteristics. After 6 months, we discovered that people who received personalized nutrition advice improved their diets more than people who received the typical healthy eating advice.
Ultra-Long Range Refractive Index Fiber Sensor
Authors: Domínguez-Flores Carmen E. , Valdés-Hernández Alessandra I. , Reyes Ana Karen , Monzón-Hernández David , Rodríguez-Quiroz Osvaldo , Ochoa-Valiente Raúl
Published: April 2022

The dynamic range of optical fiber refractive index sensors is mainly determined by the refractive index (RI) of the sensor surface in contact with the sample under test. In case of the refractive index sensor based on the hybrid fiber Fabry–Perot interferometer (HFFPI), the largest measurable refractive index value is equal to that of the fiber core. In this work, we demonstrate that it is possible to extend the refractive index dynamic range of a HFFPI by simply adjusting the optical path length (OPL) of the air and solid cavity to be equal or differ by just a small amount. Two isometric versions of the HFFPI (i-HFFPI) with a total length of 100 and 172 μm, where the OPL of the air and solid cavity are very similar, were fabricated and tested. The interferometers were immersed in different samples with a refractive index ranging from 1.000 to 1.733. The response of the interferometers was analyzed in the Fourier domain, and it was possible to establish a one-to-one relationship between the refractive index of the liquid sample and the amplitude of one of the peaks in the Fourier spectra. The amplitude of this peak experienced a linear increment when the RI of the surrounding medium was increased. Tracking the amplitude changes of a Fourier spectrum peak is straightforward which simplifies the online monitoring of the sensor. These features make this compact refractive index fiber sensor very appealing for biosensing applications.
Microbiome as a Key Player in Sustainable Agriculture and Human Health
Authors: Suman Jarupula , Rakshit Amitava , Ogireddy Siva Devika , Singh Sonam , Gupta Chinmay , Chandrakala J.
Published: April 2022

The aggregate of microorganisms in the soil environment is a microbiome that emerged as a vital component of sustainable agriculture in the recent past. These beneficial microorganisms perform multiple plant growth-promoting activities including fixation, mineralization, solubilization, and mobilization of nutrients, production of siderophores, antagonistic substances, antibiotics, and release of plant growth-promoting substances, such as auxin and gibberellin hormones, mediated by interactions between host plant roots and microbes in the rhizosphere. Numerous plant species forms symbiotic association with microbes and draw the benefit of mineral nutrient supply with the expense of minimal energy, and their distribution is governed by nature and the number of root exudates, crop species, and cultivars. On the other hand, microorganisms with critical roles in the microbiome can be isolated, formulated, and developed as a new biological product called biofertilizers. Agriculturally, important microbes with Fe- and Zn-solubilizing attributes can be used for the biofortification of micronutrients in different cereal crops. Regardless of the approach to be used, innovations with the use of microbiomes represent the future of sustainable agriculture. Probiotic microbes, such as Lactobacillus, etc., are increasingly being used as dietary supplements in functional food products. Effective utilization of microbiome aids in promoting sustainable agriculture that accomplishes a safe environment, which in turn manifests positively on human health.
Outcomes of Interventions for Angiosarcoma
Authors: Yan Qi , Fernandez Roman A. , Elmi Maryam , Gelfond Jonathan , Davies Mark G.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Angiosarcoma is a rare malignant vascular tumor, and the management and outcome of this disease are not well-described. The aim of this study was to report the incidence, patient demographics, and outcomes of angiosarcoma based on national data.

Methods

Data on patients with angiosarcoma were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Inverse probability treatment weights (IPTW) were used to assess the survival benefit of operation with additional chemo or radiation therapy compared to operation alone. These variables were further compared against patients who did not receive an operation despite being initially offered one. Cox regression was used to assess survival. Statistical analyses were performed on RStudio.

Results

For this study, 5,135 patients (46% men; median age 69, range 0–102) with angiosarcoma were identified in the SEER database between 1975 and 2016. The age-adjusted incidence rate was 1–4%. Patients were mostly non-Hispanic Caucasian (75.4%). The average tumor size was 4.7 cm, range (.1–98.9). Tumor grades were high at presentation (Grade III 17.2, Grade IV 19, and unknown 50.6%), but half were considered localized tumors. Most patients underwent an operation (66.1%). In 5.6% of patients, the operation was recommended but not performed. The overall 5-year survival was 26.7% (95% CI 25.4–28.1%). IPTW with adjusted Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated worse survival, showing that operation compared to no operation and operation with chemo/radiation compared to operation alone had worse survival between months 0 and 25 but had improved survival after month 25.

Conclusions

The incidence of angiosarcoma is low and long-term survival is poor. Multimodal therapy in the form of neoadjuvant or adjuvant chemo/radiation therapy offers significant long-term survival benefits over operation alone.
Restoring Theoretically Optimal Lumbar Lordosis Deduced from Pelvic Incidence and Thoracic Kyphosis has Advantages to Decrease the Risk of Postoperative Mechanical Complications in Adult Spinal Deformity
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Zhang Qianshi , Liu Fubing , Yuan Hui , Zhang Yi , Wang Xiaobin , Li Jing
Published: April 2022

Objective

To establish a regression formula for LL based on individual PI and TK in asymptomatic population aged over 50 years and evaluate its predictive power for the occurrence of postoperative mechanical complications in patients with adult spinal deformity (ASD).

Methods

A total of 178 asymptomatic adults were recruited for the study. The association between LL and PI, LL and TK, was investigated to establish a predictive formula for ideal LL based on PI and TK. Additionally, 93 ASD patients undergoing posterior correction surgery were retrospectively analyzed. The absolute value of the gap between postoperative actual LL and theoretical LL was defined as ΔLL. Patients were classified into two groups depending on the presence or absence of mechanical complications. The demographic and radiological data of patients were compared between the two groups.

Results

A significant association was found between LL and PI (r = 0.599, P < 0.001), LL and TK (r = 0.523, P < 0.001). A novel formula was developed as follows: LL = 0.7*PI + 0.4*TK + 1 (R2 = 0.524). In the validation cohort, 29 patients developed mechanical complications. Postoperative ΔLL (12.5 ± 7.6° vs. 7.0 ± 5.4°, P = 0.001) significantly increased the incidence of mechanical complications. The most appropriate threshold of ΔLL for predicting mechanical complications was 9.8°. For patients whose ΔLL were <9.8° and >9.8°, the incidence of mechanical complications was 19.4% and 54.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Ideal lumbar lordosis should be matched for PI and TK. The developed prediction formula for LL based on PI and TK in asymptomatic adults may help surgeons to understand the mechanisms of lumbar alignment generation and predict occurrence of mechanical complications after ASD surgery.
Identification of Smartwatch-Collected Lifelog Variables Affecting Body Mass Index in Middle-Aged People Using Regression Machine Learning Algorithms and SHapley Additive Explanations
Authors: Kim Jiyong , Lee Jiyoung , Park Minseo
Published: April 2022

Body mass index (BMI) plays a vital role in determining the health of middle-aged people, and a high BMI is associated with various chronic diseases. This study aims to identify important lifelog factors related to BMI. The sleep, gait, and body data of 47 middle-aged women and 71 middle-aged men were collected using smartwatches. Variables were derived to examine the relationships between these factors and BMI. The data were divided into groups according to height based on the definition of BMI as the most influential variable. The data were analyzed using regression and tree-based models: Ridge Regression, eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and Category Boosting (CatBoost). Moreover, the importance of the BMI variables was visualized and examined using the SHapley Additive Explanations Technique (SHAP). The results showed that total sleep time, average morning gait speed, and sleep efficiency significantly affected BMI. However, the variables with the most substantial effects differed among the height groups. This indicates that the factors most profoundly affecting BMI differ according to body characteristics, suggesting the possibility of developing efficient methods for personalized healthcare.
Thermophysical Characterization of a Thermoregulating Interior Coating Containing a Bio-Sourced Phase Change Material
Authors: Toifane Hachmi , Tittelein Pierre , Cherif Yassine , Zalewski Laurent , Leuck Hervé
Published: April 2022

This paper presents the work carried out as part of a study of a proactive interior coating based on both plaster and a phase change material (PCM), intended to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. This bio-based PCM is composed of a mixture of vegetable oils, methyl stearate, and methyl palmitate micro-encapsulated into polymer capsules. These components with distinct thermal properties constitute a mixture that displays supercooling and proves difficult to characterize using methods known in the literature. This article focuses on the thermophysical characterization (i.e., thermal conductivities, thermal capacities, latent heat, melting temperatures) and numerical modeling of a sample of this coating tested in the laboratory. This characterization is derived from experimental measurements carried out on a fluxmeter bench and by inverse methods. A new model of PCM composite characterization is presented and simulated using Python; the output shows a high degree of accuracy in describing the thermal behavior of the coating, regardless of the thermal stress applied, even making it possible to represent the phenomenon of supercooling or partial melting/solidification.
Characteristics and Aging of Traffic-Emitted Particles with Sulfate and Organic Compound Formation in Urban Air
Authors: Xing Jiaoping , Shao Longyi , Chen Feifeng , Wang Wenhua , Zhang Daizhou
Published: April 2022

Traffic is a major source of anthropogenic aerosol in urban atmosphere. In this study, aerosol particles were measured with a TEM-EDX system at the roadside of a main road in the northwestern part of Beijing, China, under clear and hazy conditions. Soot, organic, sulfur-rich (S-rich), mineral, and metal particles, as well as the mixtures, were frequently encountered in aerosols. Under hazy conditions, S-rich particles coated with organic matter (S-OM particles) accounted for most of the total particles (15% to 24%), followed by soot particles (18% to 21%), organic particles (17% to 21%), non-mixed S-rich particles (10% to 18%), and S-rich particles with soot-, mineral-, or metal-inclusions (here referred to as S-inclusion particles) (11% to 15%). Under clear conditions, non-mixed S-rich and organic particles were dominant components, while mineral and soot particles were secondary components, among which, ~14% of the total particles had a sulfate core or OM coating; inclusions of mixture particles were often mixed with sulfate cores. In the sulfate core–OM shell structure particles, the ratio of core diameter to the whole particle diameter was ~0.52 under hazy conditions and ~0.60 under clear conditions, indicating a substantial sulfate and organic formation on the particles. Soot particles accounted for 18% to 21% of the total particles. The relative growth of aged soot particles was higher under hazy conditions than under clear conditions. In sum, particles from traffic emissions on a main urban road aged with the formation of sulfate and organic matter.
Lesion- and Patient-Related Variables May Provide Additional Clues during Dermoscopic Assessment of Blue Nevi—A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sławińska Martyna , Kamińska-Winciorek Grażyna , Balicka Urszula , Żawrocki Anton , Nowicki Roman J. , Sobjanek Michał , Errichetti Enzo
Published: April 2022

Background: Little is known about the correlation between lesion- and patient-related variables and the dermoscopic features of blue nevi. The aim of the study was dermoscopic analysis of blue nevi in association with patient- and lesion-related variables, with a special interest in structures whose prevalence has not been previously reported. Methods: This was a double-center, retrospective study, which included the analysis of histopathologically confirmed blue nevi (n = 93). Results: There was no difference in the frequency of the observed dermoscopic features according to patients’ gender and age. Pink structureless areas were more common in patients with I/II Fitzpatrick skin phototypes as well as in the patients with photodamaged skin, while blue prominent skin markings over brownish/blue-gray background occurred exclusively in patients with phototype III. Structures of previously unreported prevalence in blue nevi were skin-colored circles (present in 32.3%), gray circles (2.2%), follicular ostia with no pigmentation (18.4%; present exclusively on the face), blue skin markings over brownish background (present in 18.2%; detected only on the limbs) and dark brown polygons (one lesion located on the lower extremity). Conclusion: Dermoscopic presentation of blue nevi may vary according to the patient’s phototype and lesion size/localization rather than gender and age.
Mechanistic Insights into the Effect of Sulfur on the Selectivity of Cobalt-Catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis: A DFT Study
Authors: Daga Yagmur , Kizilkaya Ali Can
Published: April 2022

Sulfur is a common poison for cobalt-catalyzed Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). Although its effects on catalytic activity are well documented, its effects on selectivity are controversial. Here, we investigated the effects of sulfur-covered cobalt surfaces on the selectivity of FTS using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Our results indicated that sulfur on the surface of Co(111) resulted in a significant decrease in the adsorption energies of CO, HCO and acetylene, while the binding of H and CH species were not significantly affected. These findings indicate that sulfur increased the surface H/CO coverage ratio while inhibiting the adsorption of carbon chains. The elementary reactions of H-assisted CO dissociation, carbon and oxygen hydrogenation and CH coupling were also investigated on both clean and sulfur-covered Co(111). The results indicated that sulfur decreased the activation barriers for carbon and oxygen hydrogenation, while increasing the barriers for CO dissociation and CH coupling. Combining the results on elementary reactions with the modification of adsorption energies, we concluded that the intrinsic effect of sulfur on the selectivity of cobalt-catalyzed FTS is to increase the selectivity to methane and saturated short-chain hydrocarbons, while decreasing the selectivity to olefins and long-chain hydrocarbons.
Non-Terrestrial Networks-Enabled Internet of Things: UAV-Centric Architectures, Applications, and Open Issues
Authors: Li Jun , Kacimi Rahim , Liu Tianyi , Ma Xiaoyan , Dhaou Riadh
Published: April 2022

Although Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)-aided wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have gained many applications, it is not for long that research works have been produced to define effective algorithms and protocols. In this article, we address the UAV-enabled WSN (U-WSN), explore the performance and the capability of the UAV, define the UAV functionalities as a communication node, and describe the architectures and the relevant typical technologies that emerge from this new paradigm. Furthermore, this article also identifies the main factors which influence the U-WSN design and analyzes the open issues and challenges in U-WSN. These insights may serve as motivations and guidelines for future designs of UAV-enabled WSNs.
Thermal Parameters Calibration and Energy-Saving Evaluation of Spectral Selective Absorption Film Coated Glazing System Based on Heat Transfer Simulation
Authors: Chen Xu , Zhu Saihong , Chen Tianyi
Published: April 2022

Spectral selective absorption film (SSAF), a solar control film, has a special energy-saving mechanism. In the previous studies of SSAF coated glazing systems, thermal parameters (global thermal transmittance (U) and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC)) calculated by traditional algorithms were not verified. In order to evaluate the energy-saving effect of SSAF coated glazing systems accurately, U and the SHGC were calibrated and then used for energy consumption simulation. Firstly, the simulation models of the heat transfer process of SSAF coated glazing systems were established by COMSOL Multiphysics, considering simplified linear attenuation of radiative transfer. After being validated, the simulation models were used for the calibration of U and SHGC by the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) model. As a result, the calibration coefficients of U and SHGC are 1.126 and 1.689, respectively. Secondly, the thermal parameters of SSAF coated glazing systems calibrated by the calibration coefficients were used for a building energy consumption simulation case. The result showed that the inner surface is the best coating position for single glazing systems (SG), while the outer surface is the best coating position for double glazing systems (DG) in hot summer and cold winter zone, hot summer and warm winter zone and the moderate zone of China.
Adaptation of the Root System to the Environment
Authors: Montagnoli Antonio
Published: April 2022

The plant fine roots system (i [...]
What You May Not Realize about Vertical Farming
Authors: Lubna Farzana A. , Lewus David C. , Shelford Timothy J. , Both Arend-Jan
Published: April 2022

Vertical farming (VF) is a newer crop production practice that is attracting attention from all around the world. VF is defined as growing indoor crops on multiple layers, either on the same floor or on multiple stories. Most VF operations are located in urban environments, substantially reducing the distance between producer and consumer. Some people claim that VF is the beginning of a new era in controlled environment agriculture, with the potential to substantially increase resource-use efficiencies. However, since most vertical farms exclusively use electric lighting to grow crops, the energy input for VF is typically very high. Additional challenges include finding and converting growing space, constructing growing systems, maintaining equipment, selecting suitable plant species, maintaining a disease- and pest-free environment, attracting and training workers, optimizing the control of environmental parameters, managing data-driven decision making, and marketing. The objective of the paper is to highlight several of the challenges and issues associated with planning and operating a successful vertical farm. Industry-specific information and knowledge will help investors and growers make informed decisions about financing and operating a vertical farm.
Warm-Up Improves Balance Control Differently in the Dominant and Non-Dominant Leg in Young Sportsmen According to Their Experience in Asymmetric or Symmetric Sports
Authors: Brighenti Alfredo , Noé Frédéric , Stella Federico , Schena Federico , Mourot Laurent
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of a warm-up on balance control and inter-limb balance asymmetries by analyzing the influence of the nature of the sport practiced by participants. Twelve sportspeople were recruited. They had to stand on a force plate for 30 s in a one-leg stance on their dominant (used to perform skilled movements) and non-dominant leg (used to support the body) before and 2, 5, 10, 15 and 20 min after a 10 min warm-up exercise performed at moderate intensity on a cycle ergometer. The center of foot pressure displacements was recorded. Statistical analysis was performed by considering one group of all participants and with two subgroups according to the symmetrical or asymmetrical nature of the sport they practiced. The warm-up exercise improved acute balance control only on the dominant leg after a 20 min rest without significantly reducing inter-limb balance asymmetries. This effect was more characteristic of participants with experience in asymmetric sports. These results confirm previous findings of the greater sensitivity of the dominant leg to the physiological state and reveal that between-leg differences in balance control appear mainly in subjects with experience in asymmetric sports in a specific physiological condition (post-warm-up state).
Molecular Dynamics and Evolution of Centromeres in the Genus Equus
Authors: Piras Francesca M. , Cappelletti Eleonora , Santagostino Marco , Nergadze Solomon G. , Giulotto Elena , Raimondi Elena
Published: April 2022

The centromere is the chromosomal locus essential for proper chromosome segregation. While the centromeric function is well conserved and epigenetically specified, centromeric DNA sequences are typically composed of satellite DNA and represent the most rapidly evolving sequences in eukaryotic genomes. The presence of satellite sequences at centromeres hampered the comprehensive molecular analysis of these enigmatic loci. The discovery of functional centromeres completely devoid of satellite repetitions and fixed in some animal and plant species represented a turning point in centromere biology, definitively proving the epigenetic nature of the centromere. The first satellite-free centromere, fixed in a vertebrate species, was discovered in the horse. Later, an extraordinary number of satellite-free neocentromeres had been discovered in other species of the genus Equus, which remains the only mammalian genus with numerous satellite-free centromeres described thus far. These neocentromeres arose recently during evolution and are caught in a stage of incomplete maturation. Their presence made the equids a unique model for investigating, at molecular level, the minimal requirements for centromere seeding and evolution. This model system provided new insights on how centromeres are established and transmitted to the progeny and on the role of satellite DNA in different aspects of centromere biology.
The Tumor Microenvironment Drives Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Progression
Authors: Mancarella Serena , Serino Grazia , Coletta Sergio , Armentano Raffaele , Dituri Francesco , Ardito Francesco , Ruzzenente Andrea , Fabregat Isabel , Giannelli Gianluigi
Published: April 2022

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA) is a highly aggressive cancer with limited therapeutic options and short overall survival. iCCA is characterized by a strong desmoplastic reaction in the surrounding ecosystem that likely affects tumoral progression. Overexpression of the Notch pathway is implicated in iCCA development and progression. Our aim was to investigate the effectiveness of Crenigacestat, a selective inhibitor of NOTCH1 signaling, against the cross-talk between cancer cells and the surrounding ecosystem in an in vivo HuCCT1-xenograft model. In the present study, a transcriptomic analysis approach, validated by Western blotting and qRT-PCR on iCCA tumor masses treated with Crenigacestat, was used to study the molecular pathways responsive to drug treatment. Our results indicate that Crenigacestat significantly inhibited NOTCH1 and HES1, whereas tumor progression was not affected. In addition, the drug triggered a strong immune response and blocked neovascularization in the tumor ecosystem of the HuCCT1-xenograft model without affecting the occurrence of fibrotic reactions. Therefore, although these data need further investigation, our observations confirm that Crenigacestat selectively targets NOTCH1 and that the desmoplastic response in iCCA likely plays a key role in both drug effectiveness and tumor progression.
Metabolic Potential of Halophilic Filamentous Fungi—Current Perspective
Authors: Śliżewska Weronika , Struszczyk-Świta Katarzyna , Marchut-Mikołajczyk Olga
Published: April 2022

Salty environments are widely known to be inhospitable to most microorganisms. For centuries salt has been used as a food preservative, while highly saline environments were considered uninhabited by organisms, and if habited, only by prokaryotic ones. Nowadays, we know that filamentous fungi are widespread in many saline habitats very often characterized also by other extremes, for example, very low or high temperature, lack of light, high pressure, or low water activity. However, fungi are still the least understood organisms among halophiles, even though they have been shown to counteract these unfavorable conditions by producing multiple secondary metabolites with interesting properties or unique biomolecules as one of their survival strategies. In this review, we focused on biomolecules obtained from halophilic filamentous fungi such as enzymes, pigments, biosurfactants, and osmoprotectants.
Protonation of Borylated Carboxonium Derivative [2,6-B10H8O2CCH3]−: Theoretical and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Klyukin Ilya N. , Kolbunova Anastasia V. , Novikov Alexander S. , Nelyubin Aleksey V. , Selivanov Nikita A. , Bykov Alexander Yu. , Klyukina Alexandra A. , Zhdanov Andrey P. , Zhizhin Konstantin Yu. , Kuznetsov Nikolay T.
Published: April 2022

The process of protonation of [2,6-B10H8O2CCH3]− was investigated both theoretically and experimentally. The most suitable conditions for protonation of the derivative [2,6-B10H8O2CCH3]− were found. The process of protonation was carried out in the presence of an excess of trifluoromethanesulfonic acid CF3SO3H at room temperature in dichloromethane solution. The structure of the resulting complex [2,6-B10H8O2CCH3*Hfac]0 was established using NMR data and the results of DFT calculations. An additional proton atom Hfac was found to be localized on one of the facets that was opposite the boron atom in a substituted position, and which bonded mainly with one apical boron atom. The main descriptors of the B-Hfac bond were established theoretically using QTAIM and NBO approaches. In addition, the mechanism of [2,6-B10H8O2CCH3]− protonation was investigated.
Qualitative Analysis of a Model of Renewable Resources and Population with Distributed Delays
Authors: Ciano Tiziana , Ferrara Massimiliano , Guerrini Luca
Published: April 2022

This work generalizes Matsumoto et al.’s dynamic model of population and renewable resources by substituting a distributed delay for the time delay. It is proved that the equilibrium point may lose or gain local stability, allowing for the observation of alternating stability/instability areas if some conditions hold.
Responsive Liquid Metal Droplets: From Bulk to Nano
Authors: Duan Minghui , Zhu Xiyu , Shan Xiaohui , Wang Hongzhang , Chen Sen , Liu Jing
Published: April 2022

Droplets exist widely in nature and play an extremely important role in a broad variety of industrial processes. Typical droplets, including water and oil droplets, have received extensive attention and research, however their single properties still cannot meet diverse needs. Fortunately, liquid metal droplets emerging in recent years possess outstanding properties, including large surface tension, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, convenient chemical processing, easy transition between liquid and solid phase state, and large-scale deformability, etc. More interestingly, liquid metal droplets with unique features can respond to external factors, including the electronic field, magnetic field, acoustic field, chemical field, temperature, and light, exhibiting extraordinary intelligent response characteristics. Their development over the past decade has brought substantial breakthroughs and progress. To better promote the advancement of this field, the present article is devoted to systematically summarizing and analyzing the recent fundamental progress of responsive liquid metal droplets, not only involving droplet characteristics and preparation methods, but also focusing on their diverse response behaviors and mechanisms. On this basis, the challenges and prospects related to the following development of liquid metal droplets are also proposed. In the future, responsive liquid metal droplets with a rapid development trend are expected to play a key role in soft robots, biomedicine, smart matter, and a variety of other fields.
Correcting the Results of CHM-Based Individual Tree Detection Algorithms to Improve Their Accuracy and Reliability
Authors: Lisiewicz Maciej , Kamińska Agnieszka , Kraszewski Bartłomiej , Stereńczak Krzysztof
Published: April 2022

Individual tree detection algorithms (ITD) are used to obtain accurate information about trees. Following the process of individual tree detection, it is possible to use additional processing tools to determine tree parameters such as tree height, crown base height, crown volume, or stem volume. However, many of the methods developed so far have focused on parameterising the algorithms based on the study area, height structure or tree species analysed. Applying the parameters of the method can be challenging in areas with dense and heterogeneous forests with a diverse stand structure. Therefore, this work aimed to develop a method to correct the results of ITD algorithms to identify individual trees more reliably, taking into account different ITD methods based on the Canopy Height Model. In the present study, we proposed a three-step approach to correct segmentation errors. In the first step, erroneous (under- and over-segmentation errors) and correct segments were classified. After classification, the second step was to refine the under-segmentation errors. The final step was to merge segments from the over-segmentation class with correct segments based on the specified conditions. The study was conducted in one of the most complex and diverse forest communities in Europe, making tree identification a major challenge. The accuracy of the segmentation improvements varied depending on the method applied and tree species group examined. Thus, based on the results, the paper advocates for the correction method due to its efficiency in mixed forest stands. Therefore, the present study offers a possible solution to reduce segmentation errors by considering different forest types and different CHM-based ITD methods for identifying individual trees.
Retrieval of the Leaf Area Index from Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Surface Reflectance Based on Unsupervised Domain Adaptation
Authors: Li Juan , Xiao Zhiqiang , Sun Rui , Song Jinling
Published: April 2022

Several global leaf area index (LAI) products were generated using neural networks, but the training dataset for the neural networks was sensor specific, and the construction of the training dataset was time consuming. In this paper, an unsupervised domain adaptation-based method was proposed to estimate LAI from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) surface reflectance dataset based on a training dataset constructed from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) surface reflectance dataset. A transfer component analysis (TCA) algorithm was first utilized to map the MODIS and VIIRS surface reflectance into the same subspace to reduce the distribution discrepancies between the MODIS and VIIRS surface reflectance. Then, the embedded data obtained from MODIS surface reflectance dataset, along with the LAI values produced by fusing the MODIS and the Carbon cYcle and Change in Land Observational Products from an Ensemble of Satellites (CYCLOPES) products, were employed to train general regression neural networks (GRNNs). Finally, for retrieving the LAI values, the embedded data acquired from the VIIRS surface reflectance dataset was input into the trained GRNNs. For multiple field sites with different biome types, we used this developed method to retrieve LAI values based on the VIIRS surface reflectance dataset. The results indicate that, based on the training dataset built from MODIS surface reflectance dataset, the domain adaptation-based retrieval method can effectively estimate LAI values from VIIRS surface reflectance dataset. By comparison with the VIIRS and MODIS LAI products, the retrieved LAI values with TCA are more consistent with the reference LAI values acquired from high-resolution remote sensing images. The coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error (RMSE) of the retrieved LAI values with TCA at all selected sites are 0.88 and 0.68, respectively. Furthermore, the accuracy of the retrieved LAI values with TCA is higher than the retrieved LAI values without TCA with the R2 0.81 and the RMSE 0.79.
Acoustic Multi-Parameter Early Warning Method for Transformer DC Bias State
Authors: Zhou Yuhao , Wang Bowen
Published: April 2022

The acoustic signal in the operation of a power transformer contains a lot of transformer operation state information, which is of great significance to the detection of DC bias state. In this paper, three typical parameters used for DC bias state detection are selected by comparing the acoustic variation of a 500 kV Jingting transformer substation No. 2 transformer with that of the core model built in the laboratory; then, acoustic samples of the 162 EHV normal state transformers are collected, and the distribution regularity of three typical parameters in normal state is given. Finally, according to the distribution regularity, clear warning threshold of typical parameters are given, and the DC bias cases from the 500 kV Jingting transformer substation are used to verify the effectiveness of the threshold.
A Perspective towards Multi-Hazard Resilient Systems: Natural Hazards and Pandemics
Authors: Hariri-Ardebili Mohammad Amin , Sattar Siamak , Johnson Katherine , Clavin Christopher , Fung Juan , Ceferino Luis
Published: April 2022

The concept of resilience has been used extensively across the sciences in engineering and the humanities. It is applied to ecology, medicine, economics, and psychology. The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has posed an extraordinary challenge to the resilience of healthcare systems, communities, and nations and has profoundly altered our previous day-to-day operations. This paper presents a discussion of the definitions and characteristics of resilient systems. Scenarios are utilized to qualitatively explore key relationships, responses, and paths for recovery across different system types. The purpose is to develop an integrated approach that can accommodate simultaneous threats to system resilience, in particular, impacts from a natural hazard in conjunction with COVID-19. This manuscript is the first to advocate for more in-depth and quantitative research utilizing transdisciplinary approaches that can accommodate considerations across our built environment and healthcare system infrastructures in pursuit of designing systems that are resilient to both natural hazards and pandemic impacts.
Socioeconomic differences in help seeking for colorectal cancer symptoms during COVID-19: a UK-wide qualitative interview study
Authors: Ip Athena , Black Georgia , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia , Taylor Claire , Otter Sophie , Hewish Madeleine , Bhuiya Afsana , Callin Julie , Wong Angela , Machesney Michael , Fulop Naomi J , Taylor Cath , Whitaker Katriina L
Published: April 2022

Background

COVID-19 has led to rapid changes in healthcare delivery, raising concern that these changes may exacerbate existing inequalities in patient outcomes.

Aim

To understand how patients’ help-seeking experiences in primary care for colorectal cancer symptoms during COVID-19 were affected by their socioeconomic status (SES).

Design and setting

Qualitative semi-structured interviews with males and females across the UK, recruited using purposive sampling by SES.

Method

Interviews were carried out with 39 participants (20 higher SES; 19 lower SES) who contacted primary care about possible symptoms of colorectal cancer during COVID-19. Data were analysed using framework analysis followed by comparative thematic analysis to explore differences between groups.

Results

Three themes were identified with differences between SES groups: 1) how people decided to seek medical help through appraisal of symptoms; 2) how people navigated services; and 3) impact of COVID-19 on how patients interacted with healthcare professionals. The lower SES group expressed uncertainty appraising symptoms and navigating services (in terms of new processes resulting from COVID-19 and worries about infection). There was also potential for increased disparity in diagnosis and management, with other methods of getting in touch (for example, email or 111) taken up more readily by higher SES patients.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that COVID-19 exacerbated disparities between higher and lower SES participants. This study raises awareness around challenges in help seeking in the context of the pandemic, which are likely to persist (post-COVID-19) as healthcare systems settle on new models of care (for example, digital). Recommendations are provided to reduce inequalities of care.
METHODS OF INCREASING THE WEAR RESISTANCE OF THE WORKING BODIES OF A ROTARY-VORTEX MILL
Authors: Romanovich A. , Duhanin S. , Romanovich M.
Published: April 2022

The article is aimed at increasing the durability of the working bodies of rotary-vortex mills, which are widely used in the production of dry building mixes. The description of the device of a rotary-vortex mill is given.

The article proposes a new method developed by scientists of the V.G. Shukhov BSTU to increase the durability of the mill's working bodies by applying cells with dimensions on their surfaces that allow particles of the crushed material to be pressed into them, and thereby protect the surface from rapid wear.

As a result of an analytical study of the force interaction of the crushed material with the surface of the beale cell, an equation was obtained to determine the geometric dimensions of the cell, allowing due to friction forces to keep the volume of particles of the pressed material from falling out of it.

It is established that the dimensions of the cell are interconnected and are determined in such a way that the resulting pushing force is equal to or less than the holding force (friction force). It is proved that the pressing of particles of the crushed material, in rectangular cells of the deposited mesh on the working surface of the bat, is largely determined by the geometric dimensions of the cell, and also depends on the physical and mechanical characteristics of the crushed materials. The design of the bill is proposed, which allows to increase its durability by reducing the contact area of the crushed material with the working surface of the bill.
Round Table Conversations on Oppression, Racism, and Religious Oppression
Authors: Bethel Joyous , Foels Leonora , Dinse Ling
Published: April 2022

This study empirically examines the experience of 196 undergraduate students from two universities, one a secular state institution and the other a Christian college, enrolled in courses on human diversity. The students engaged in structured conversations as a vehicle for increasing the students’ understanding of the lived experiences of others. Conversation topics included understandings of racial and religious oppression. The goal of the study was for students to intentionally engage in structured conversations about contentious topics (oppression, race, and religious oppression) to develop an understanding of the lived experiences of others. Quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed, and the findings are presented. The conversation experiences were universally found by students at both institutions of higher education to be overwhelmingly meaningful.
Enlightenment activities of modern mass media
Authors: Gordienko Natalia N.
Published: April 2022

The enlightenment activity of the media is aimed at raising the cultural level of people, is associated with the dissemination of information, knowledge, norms and values from the field of intangible production. The purpose of the article is to describe the main directions of enlightenment activities of the media. It talks about the importance of the enlightenment function of journalism and how to implement it. Informing consists in familiarising society with any facts or results of intellectual activity – politics, philosophy, religion, science, culture, art. These data contain socially significant knowledge, norms, values and correspond to humanistic tendencies of social development. Popularisation means the presentation of information in a form accessible to a mass audience. Media criticism is considered in the article as the ability to evaluate, analyse, interpret media content. Propaganda as a type of enlightenment activity is aimed at spreading knowledge and other information in order to form certain views, ideas, principles. The materials published in the weeklies “Rossiyskaya Gazeta” (Russian Gazette), “Argumenty i Fakty” (Arguments and Facts), “Literaturnaya Gazeta” (Literary Newspaper) are involved in the research. The main attention is paid to the current state of enlightenment in the press, its impact on the social role of journalism.
Phraseological item as the basis of a poetic text: the genre of poemphrase
Authors: Popova Anna R.
Published: April 2022

The article is devoted to the linguistic description of the genre of poemphrase including such poetic texts with a title phraseologism which reveal its informational potential and demonstrate the connections of different levels of language with the component composition of its phraseological title. The poem phrase text is considered as the realisation of one of the vectors of the phraseologism creative potential. Such text inherits and transforms denotative, connotative, combinable, stylistic, culturological and other features of the basic phraseological item. The article describes the essential features of a phraseological item that contribute to the creation of a poetic text on its basis – extralinguistic, system-linguistic and internal, peculiar to certain phraseological items. Examples of realisations of the creative potential of phraseology are analysed – the author's texts (at the moment there are more than fifty works of this new genre). The article demonstrates how in the poemphrase based on the generally accepted, culturally mastered meaning of phraseologism in all the richness of its macro- and microcomponents reveal both the common language, typical and individual, subjective beginnings. The article reveals the connection of the global properties of Russian phraseology (anthropocentrism and anthropometrism) with the realisation of the creative potential of phraseologism in a lyrical or lyroepic text of the genre of poemphrase. The linguistic and informative status of phraseologism in a poetic text-poemphrase in which a phraseologism plays a dominant genre-forming and text-forming role, is determined.
The system of specialised environmental prosecutor's offices of the Russian Federation: historical, organisational and legal aspects and principles of its formation
Authors: Orlovskaya Irina V.
Published: April 2022

One of the effective mechanisms for ensuring environmental safety is the system of environmental prosecutor's offices. The author has made an attempt in a new way, taking into account modern realities, to determine the place and role of environmental prosecutor's offices in the system of public authorities, to study the historical prerequisites for the formation of the basin (ecosystem) principle of organising the work of the environmental prosecutor's office, to reveal its content, to analyse the possibility of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the supervisory activities of environmental prosecutor's offices established on the basin (ecosystem) principle. The author's definition of the concept “basin principle of the intradepartmental organisation of environmental prosecutor's offices” is formulated in the study with the conclusion made about the effectiveness of this form of intradepartmental organisation of supervisory activities. The paper reveals the positions of various researchers on the feasibility of creating environmental prosecutor's offices, including those organised according to the basin (ecosystem) principle, and their further expansion. The author has formulated practice-oriented proposals to improve the effectiveness of environmental prosecutor's offices by reforming their structure. The methodological basis of the work includes the general scientific methods of logical, comparative legal, regulatory analysis with the possibilities of a historical and interdisciplinary approach to research used.