bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID 19 KORKUSUNUN İŞ PERFORMANSINA ETKİSİ: AKADEMİSYENLER ÜZERİNE AMPİRİK BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: GÜLTEKİN Zümral
Published: October 2022

Bu çalışmanın amacı akademisyenlerin Covid 19 korkusunun iş performansına etkisini araştırmaktır. Ayrıca bazı demografik değişkenlere göre Covid 19 korkusunun ve iş performansının farklılaşıp farklılaşmadığını tespit etmeye çalışmak araştırmanın alt amaçları arasında yer almaktadır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda veriler bir devlet üniversitesinde görev yapan 304 akademisyenden elde edilmiştir. Değişkenler arasındaki etkiyi araştırmak için regresyon analizi yapılmıştır. Demografik özelliklere göre farklılıkları tespit etmek için ise bağımsız örneklem t-testi ile tek yönlü varyans analizleri yapılmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda akademisyenlerde Covid 19 korkusunun iş performansına anlamlı bir etkisi olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. Kadın akademisyenlerde Covid 19 korkusunun daha fazla olduğu, yaş arttıkça iş performansının arttığı araştırmanın diğer sonuçlarıdır. Yerli yazında Covid 19 korkusu ve iş performansı ilişkisini araştıran çalışmalar olsa da akademisyenler üzerine yapılan bir çalışmanın olmaması araştırmanın önemini artırmaktadır.
İŞ SAĞLIĞI VE GÜVENLİĞİ UYGULAMALARININ PSİKOLOJİK SÖZLEŞMEYE ETKİSİ: ÇİMENTO SEKTÖRÜNDE BİR ARAŞTIRMA
Authors: TAMBAY Ahmet , ÇELİK Adnan
Published: October 2022

Dünyada artan sanayileşme ve teknolojik gelişmelerin etkisiyle yeni risklerin ortaya çıkması kaçınılmaz hale gelmiştir. Bu muhtemel risklerin, işgücü olarak ifade edilen insan faktörü üzerindeki etkisinin belirlenmesi ve işverenler tarafından güvenli ve sağlıklı bir iş ortamı için gerekli koşulların oluşturulması önemlidir. Bu durum çalışanlarda karşılıklılık ilkesine dayanan psikolojik sözleşmenin gereklerinin yerine getirilme algısı yaratacaktır. Çalışmanın amacı çimento endüstrisindeki iş sağlığı ve güvenliği uygulamalarının çalışanların psikolojik sözleşmeleri üzerindeki etkisini incelemektir. Araştırmanın verileri Aralık 2017 ve Şubat 2018 tarihleri arasında Orta Anadolu bölgesinde faaliyette bulunan çimento üretim tesislerinden anket yöntemi ile elde edilmiştir. Analize uygun 409 anketten elde edilen bulgular ışığında iş sağlığı ve güvenliği uygulamaları ile işlemsel psikolojik sözleşme boyutu arasında p < .001 düzeyinde negatif (-.17) yönde anlamlı düşük bir ilişki, ilişkisel psikolojik sözleşme boyutuyla ise pozitif (.23) yönde anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmuştur.
The results of licensing and exploration work on the sites of the distributed subsoil fund of the Krasnoyarsk region
Authors: Konstantinova L. N. , Gordeeva A. O. , Belova E. V.
Published: October 2022

The reproduction of the mineral resource base of oil and gas is associated with the discovery of new deposits and is based on the results of the stages of search and exploration at the expense of subsoil users. For successful licensing and exploration work, monitoring is necessary in order to identify the most effective methods both in individual areas of the distributed subsoil fund and in the region as a whole. The article summarizes the results of subsurface licensing in the Krasnoyarsk region of the Leno-Tunguska oil and gas bearing province as of 2022. Currently, licenses for the search, exploration and operation of oil and gas fields have been issued for 61 sites of the distributed subsoil fund. 16 companies have been registered. The largest volume of exploration work was carried out by Slavneft-Krasnoyarsk Oil Company, Vostsibneftegaz JSC and Gazprom PJSC. There are 16 sites of distributed subsurface resources on the territory of the Baikitskaya anteclise. In the period from 2004 to 2014, 10 oil and gas fields were discovered by subsoil users.
Intellectual and natural resources: new opportunities for development
Authors: Korolev M. K. , Totok I. V.
Published: October 2022

The article analyzes the role of intellectual resources in the development of extractive industries through research on promising technological solutions for the main stages of technological processes. The relevance of the study lies in the possibility and necessity of using patent analytics as a tool for forming growth points for high-tech sectors of the economy in resource-type regions. The authors suggest that the oriented adaptation of patent analytics tools will solve a large-scale scientific problem - to identify patterns and dependencies of changes in the mining and geological conditions of subsoil use and, accordingly, the main parameters of mining machines, over time and develop a methodology for predicting and justifying the promising parameters of various mining machines as one functional purpose, and multifunctional, ensuring their efficient operation for a given period of time.
Analysis of subsoil licensing and the results of exploration at allocated fund areas in the Irkutsk region
Authors: Kuznetsova E. N. , Belova E. V. , Gordeeva A. O.
Published: October 2022

A review of the state of the distributed subsoil fund (RFN) for the period from 1993 to 2021 was completed. on the territory of the Irkutsk region. The main stages and features of its development are highlighted. The RFN consists of 98 subsoil plots for which licenses have been issued for prospecting, exploration and exploitation of oil and gas fields. During the period under review, there has been a steady expansion of the RPF area and an increase in the volume of geological exploration. 30 companies are registered as subsoil users, of which the group of OOO INK, PJSC NK Rosneft, PJSC Gazprom stands out. These companies make the main contribution to exploration, operate on half of the area of the entire RFN and have a total of 47 licenses. As a result of the activities of all subsoil users, 33 oil and gas fields were discovered.
Effect of rarefied proppant monolayer on coal permeability
Authors: Shilova T. V. , Serdyuk I. M.
Published: October 2022

Effective gas drainage and intensification of coalbed methane recovery is a challenging problem in underground mining. One of the methods to increase coal permeability is hydraulic fracturing. Long-term conductivity of hydraulic fractures is ensured using wedging materials (proppants). The effect of partial filling of an artificial fracture by proppant on coal permeability is studied. The permeability tests of samples with a longitudinal fracture filled by a rarefied monolayer of proppant were performed under conditions of triaxial compression at 1-5 MPa. It is found that with a decrease in the surface density of the proppant by 2-4 times, the coal permeability is preserved and corresponds to the values obtained for a continuous proppant monolayer. The compressibility coefficients of the natural and artificial fractures in coal are estimated based on the permeability test results. The compressibility coefficient in the propped fractures is one order of magnitude lower than in the natural cracks.
Ecological and economic evaluation of the efficiency of using different methods of oil production
Authors: Ryaguzova K. D. , Mishenin М. V.
Published: October 2022

The paper explores the use of mechanized profit in the world. An algorithm for choosing a mechanized large volume of production is shown, taking into account geographical and landscape features, physico-chemical properties of fluids for the use of oil production. The choice of environmental and economic efficiency and the use of different incomes. Accurately calculated costs, payback ratios, capital and operating costs for the use of mechanized income are calculated, which reveal the relevance of the application of technologies depending on the distribution. A certain environmental benefit of applying varying degrees of mechanized profit.
An example of the implementation of the concept of "accessible environment" in the CIS countries
Authors: Demidenko A. Yu.
Published: October 2022

The main objective of the article was to analyze the approaches of states from the countries of independent states (CIS) to the formation of barrier-free urban areas. A compilation of the existing social policies in the countries and their goals was drawn up. It also provides statistics for the CIS countries on the proportional dependence of the number of people with disabilities on the population.
Justification of the need to account for reserves and development of natural resources
Authors: Klyushnichenko V. N.
Published: October 2022

The importance of natural resources in the life of society is shown. The necessity of accounting for reserves of all types of natural resources is justified. The data on the sphere of mineral development are given. The negative consequences of mining are reflected, which lead not only to the disappearance of important natural resources for humans, but also to the violation of the ecological situation. In addition, the structure of the Earth as a living organism is disrupted, which leads to changes in the groundwater level, sinkholes of the earth's surface, destruction of buildings, underground utilities and roads. At the same time, the coordinates of the points of the state geodetic network change significantly, which causes the overlap (intersection) of the boundaries of land plots by coordinates. The necessity of forming a cadastre of natural resources is substantiated, which will ensure strict accounting and rational use of all types of natural resources.
Import substitution in the digital transformation of cadastral activity
Authors: Malygina O. I.
Published: October 2022

Currently, the process of import substitution has been launched in all sectors of public administration. The system of providing state services in the field of cadastral registration is developing at a faster pace, in contrast to the software for maintaining the cadastre and land management. The problem of providing software products to all interested parties has not yet been sufficiently developed and not all departments of state service bodies are provided with the necessary software.
Safety management system of the labor process at enterprises: features of functioning
Authors: Osipova T. V. , Tikhonova O. V.
Published: October 2022

The article is devoted to the solution of urgent and important problem of improvement of working conditions and labour protection at the enterprise for production of thermoplastic materials. The authors have carried out the analysis and evaluation of occupational risks of some professions in the occupational safety and health management system by the Fine-Kinney method. The main characteristics of the existing approach are considered. Recommendations for the formation of an effective structure of labour protection management are given.
Development of forms of agricultural land use in Russia in the post-perestroika period
Authors: Vylegzhanina V. V. , Dobrotvorskaya N. I. , Giniyatov I. A.
Published: October 2022

The article discusses the formation and development of forms of agricultural land use after the introduction of private ownership of land. The impact of the reform of the agro-industrial complex on the types of use and organization of the use of agricultural land in the Russian Federation is assessed. The reasons preventing the effective use of lands of this category are investigated. Negative factors contributing to the emergence of unemployment in rural areas, the outflow of the working population to cities and the depopulation of rural areas have been identified. The reasons for the implementation of agricultural activities of a focal nature are indicated. The ways of solving problems within the framework of an integrated scientific and industrial approach of targeted value are proposed.
Analisis perbandingan tipe belitan terhadap nilai parameter motor induksi satu fasa
Authors: Ridzki Imron , Santoso Asfari Hariz , Hermawan Ahmad
Published: October 2022

Motor induksi merupakan salah satu motor listrik yang luas penggunaannya. Salah satu jenis motor induksi adalah motor induksi satu fasa. Pada kondisi tertentu motor induksi perlu dilakukan rewinding pada kumparannya. Proses rewinding sebelumnya harus ditentukan jumlah kutub, tipe belitan, dimensi konduktor, serta jumlah lilitnya. Praktik di lapangan ketika melakukan proses rewinding umummya hanya memperhatikan jumlah kutub, akan tetapi tipe belitan tidak begitu diperhatikan secara khusus. Pada dasaranya setiap tipe belitan menghasilkan gaya gerak magnit (mmf) yang berbedabeda, yang mana mmf tersebut mengandung komponen fundamental dan komponen harmonisanya. Hal ini akan berakibat fluksi yang dihasilkan juga berbeda. Dimana fluksi juga mempunyai peran pada nilai parameter motor induksi satu fasa. Pada penelitian ini dilakukan proses rewinding pada dua motor induksi dengan konstruksi yang sama, motor induksi pertama (M1) dengan tipe belitan terbagi-skrew dan motor induksi kedua (M2) dengan tipe belitan terpusat terdistribusi, kemudian dilakukan pengujian untuk mengetahui paramater motor induksi hasil rewinding. Hasil pengujian didapatkan perbedaan nilai reaktansi dimana M1 nilai reaktansi kumparan stator dan rotornya berturut-turut 5,71 Ω dan 5,71 Ω, pada M2 nilai reaktansi stator dan rotornya berturut-turut 5,98 Ω dan 5,98 Ω. Analisis perbedaan nilai reaktansi motor induksi tersebut dilakukan analisis finite element menggunakan perangkat lunak FEMM 4.2.
ABSTRACT
The single-phase induction motor is one of the most widely used electric motors. Under certain conditions, the induction motor needs to be rewinded on the coil. The rewinding process must determine the number of poles, the type of winding, the dimensions of the conductor, and the number of turns. Generally, when carrying out the rewinding process, the winding type is not given much special attention. Where each type of winding produces a different magnetomotive force (mmf). This will result in different fluxes resulting in different parameter values for single-phase induction motors. In this study, a comparison of the parameters of an induction motor with the same construction and with different winding types will be carried out. The first motor (M1) is of the screw-shared winding type and the second motor (M2) is of the distributed concentrated winding type. The test results show a difference in the reactance value where M1 the reactance values of the stator and rotor coils are 5.71 Ω and 5.71 Ω, respectively, while in M2 the stator and rotor reactance values are 5.98 Ω and 5.98 Ω, respectively. The difference in reactance values was carried out by finite element analysis using FEMM 4.2.
Pengujian power supply switching komputer 12 Volt di laboratorium Teknik Elektronika Politeknik Negeri Malang
Authors: Saukani Imam , Triturani Rina
Published: October 2022

Sumber tegangan (power supply ) sangat dibutuhkan dalam kegiatan praktikum di pembelajaran, penelitian dan pengabdian pada masyarakat, sehingga ketersediaanya sangat diperlukan, sehingga diperlukan alternatif lain untuk menambah ketersediannya. Sementara saat ini banyak tersedia power supply computer. Di penelitian ini dilakukan pengujian apakah power supply computer bisa digunakan untuk kegiatan praktikum. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode eksperimen, dimana peneliti menggunakan beban resistif yang nilainya sengaja diubah-ubah untuk mengamati pengaruhnya terhadap nilai tegangan dan arus pada output power supply computer. Dari percobaan yang didapat dari hasil pengukuran, bahwa besarnya resistor/hambatan akan mempengarui arus luaran, tegangan luaran 12 Volt bila diberikan hambatan a variabel berubah 5 ohm dengan variasi beban antara 50-170 ohm maka arus yang mengalir bernilai antara 0,100 sampai 0,029 Ampere, sehingga power supply computer tersebut bisa digunanakan untuk kebutuhan praktikum yang kebutuhan dayanya 0,029 -1,2 Watt.
ABSTRACT
Voltage sources (power supply) are needed in practical activities in learning, research and community service, so their availability is very necessary, so other alternatives are needed to increase their availability. While there are currently many available computer power supplies. In this study, we tested whether the computer power supply can be used for practical activities. The method used in this study is an experimental method, where the researcher uses a resistive load whose value is deliberately varied to observe its effect on the voltage and current values at the computer's power supply output. From the experiments obtained from the measurement results, that the amount of resistor / resistance will affect the output current, the output voltage is 12 Volts when a variable resistance is given to change 5 ohms with a load variation between 50-170 ohms, the current flowing is between 0.100 to 0.029 Ampere, so The computer power supply can be used for practical needs with a power requirement of 0.029 -1.2 Watt.
Development of a simulation tool for design and off-design performance assessment of offshore combined heat and power cycles
Authors: Motamed Mohammad A. , Nord Lars O.
Published: October 2022

Ambitious targets for reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are set by Norwegian authorities to address the concerns about global warming. Emission reductions in the offshore heat and power sector can play a role in reaching these targets. Parts of the efforts in industry and academia to reduce offshore emissions are concerned with introducing new design configurations or proposing novel operational strategies for the combined heat and power cycles. Therefore, there is a desire to have a fast and reliable design and assessment tool to be used in the early design stage. Here, a generalized design and performance simulation tool is developed presenting a design point and off-design simulation of the offshore heat and power cycles. It helps the designer provide a fast and accurate thermodynamic assessment of proposed design solutions. The tool has a graphical user interface to facilitate working with the tool with a minimum level of effort and background knowledge from the user. Five part-load control strategies are included in the tool. The tool is verified with available data in the open literature and the results are shown to be in good agreement with the reference data. A combined heat and power cycle is designed and simulated at part-loads as a case study. The cycle includes a gas turbine, a process heat extraction unit, and an organic Rankine bottoming cycle. The simulated performance of the design case in various control strategies is compared showing a 2.5% emission reduction relative to the baseline control strategy.
Podcast como prática pedagógica de sala de aula invertida
Authors: Dias Mangolini Neves Pedro , Bellini Marcella
Published: October 2022

O ano de 2020 foi marcado por diversas mudanças no nosso cotidiano devido a pandemia da COVID-19, com alterações no modo em que socializamos com as pessoas, incluindo a escola. Um dos desafios da educação foi o estabelecimento de um ensino remoto, fazendo com que alunos permanecessem no processo de ensino-aprendizagem utilizando computadores e/ou celulares como forma de comunicação com o(a) professor(a). Destarte, esse estudo apresenta a elaboração de podcasts como prática pedagógica de metodologia ativa através da Sala de Aula Invertida. Foi percebido que tal metodologia teve êxito por dar protagonismo ao aluno na produção de material didático, bem como proporcionar um ensino colaborativo e coletivo sem ensino presencial.
Continuous Hyper-parameter OPtimization (CHOP) in an ensemble Kalman filter
Authors: Luo Xiaodong , Xia Chuan-An
Published: October 2022

Practical data assimilation algorithms often contain hyper-parameters, which may arise due to, for instance, the use of certain auxiliary techniques like covariance inflation and localization in an ensemble Kalman filter, the re-parameterization of certain quantities such as model and/or observation error covariance matrices, and so on. Given the richness of the established assimilation algorithms, and the abundance of the approaches through which hyper-parameters are introduced to the assimilation algorithms, one may ask whether it is possible to develop a sound and generic method to efficiently choose various types of (sometimes high-dimensional) hyper-parameters. This work aims to explore a feasible, although likely partial, answer to this question. Our main idea is built upon the notion that a data assimilation algorithm with hyper-parameters can be considered as a parametric mapping that links a set of quantities of interest (e.g., model state variables and/or parameters) to a corresponding set of predicted observations in the observation space. As such, the choice of hyper-parameters can be recast as a parameter estimation problem, in which our objective is to tune the hyper-parameters in such a way that the resulted predicted observations can match the real observations to a good extent. From this perspective, we propose a hyper-parameter estimation workflow and investigate the performance of this workflow in an ensemble Kalman filter. In a series of experiments, we observe that the proposed workflow works efficiently even in the presence of a relatively large amount (up to 103) of hyper-parameters, and exhibits reasonably good and consistent performance under various conditions.
Bioengineering lungs: An overview of current methods, requirements, and challenges for constructing scaffolds
Authors: Shakir Shahad , Hackett Tillie Louise , Mostaço-Guidolin Leila B.
Published: October 2022

Chronic respiratory diseases remain a significant health burden worldwide. The only option for individuals with end-stage lung failure remains Lung Transplantation. However, suitable organ donor shortages and immune rejection following transplantation remain a challenge. Since alternative options are urgently required to increase tissue availability for lung transplantation, researchers have been exploring lung bioengineering extensively, to generate functional, transplantable organs and tissue. Additionally, the development of physiologically-relevant artificial tissue models for testing novel therapies also represents an important step toward finding a definite clinical solution for different chronic respiratory diseases. This mini-review aims to highlight some of the most common methodologies used in bioengineering lung scaffolds, as well as the benefits and disadvantages associated with each method in conjunction with the current areas of research devoted to solving some of these challenges in the area of lung bioengineering.
Identification of nanoparticle-mediated siRNA-ASPN as a key gene target in the treatment of keloids
Authors: Dong Yipeng , Zhang Chuwei , Zhang Qingrong , Li Zihan , Wang Yixiao , Yan Jun , Wu Gujie , Qiu Ling , Zhu Zhihan , Wang Bolin , Gu Haiying , Zhang Yi
Published: October 2022

Background: Keloid, also known as connective tissue hyperplasia, is a benign proliferative disorder with a global distribution. The available therapeutic interventions are steroid injections, surgical removal of keloids, radiotherapy, compression therapy, the application of cryosurgery, and many other methods.

Objectives: Existing treatments or approaches for keloids may lead to similar or even larger lesions at the site of keloid excision, leading to a high recurrence rate. Therefore, this study aims at identifying a new gene-based therapy for the treatment of keloids.

Methods: An ASPN-siRNA/nanoparticle combination (si-ASPN) and a negative siRNA/nanoparticle complex (NC) was developed on the basis of bioinformatics studies and used in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Results: The results showed a strong correlation between the development of keloids and high expression of ASPN protein. With the expression of ASPN protein greatly reduced in keloid fibroblasts and nude mice allografts after treatment with si-ASPN, the collagen and fibroblasts were also uniform, thinner, parallel and regular.

Conclusion: All the above experimental results suggest that keloid and ASPN are closely related and both fibroblast growth and metabolism of keloid are inhibited after silencing ASPN. Therefore, ASPN-siRNA delivered via nanoparticles can serve as a novel intervention therapy for the treatment of keloids.
Single-step rapid chromatographic purification and characterization of clinical stage oncolytic VSV-GP
Authors: Gautam Saurabh , Xin Dongyue , Garcia Alan Pardo , Spiesschaert Bart
Published: October 2022

Purification of viruses, especially for therapeutic purposes, is a tedious and challenging task. The challenges arise due to the size and surface complexity of the virus particles. VSV-GP is a promising oncolytic virus, which has been approved for phase I clinical trials by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of United States and Paul Ehrlich Institute (PEI) of Germany. The virus particles of VSV-GP are larger in size than vectors commonly used for gene therapy (e.g., adenovirus, adeno-associated virus, etc.). The current established proprietary clinical-grade manufacturing process for the purification of VSV-GP encompasses several chromatographic and non-chromatographic steps. In this study, we describe a new single-step purification process for the purification of VSV-GP virus, using cation exchange convective flow column with relatively higher yields. The purified virus was characterized for its quality attributes using TCID50 assay (for viral infectivity), host cell protein contaminant ELISA, SDS-PAGE, size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and cryo-electron microscopy. Furthermore, the purified viral therapeutic material was tested in vivo for its efficacy and safety. All these characterization methods demonstrated a therapeutic virus preparation of high purity and yield, which can be readily used for various studies.
Analysis of mitochondrial dynamics and function in the retinal pigment epithelium by high-speed high-resolution live imaging
Authors: Tan Li Xuan , Li Jianlong , Germer Colin J. , Lakkaraju Aparna
Published: October 2022

Mitochondrial dysfunction is strongly implicated in neurodegenerative diseases including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which causes irreversible blindness in over 50 million older adults worldwide. A key site of insult in AMD is the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a monolayer of postmitotic polarized cells that performs essential functions for photoreceptor health and vision. Recent studies from our group and others have identified several features of mitochondrial dysfunction in AMD including mitochondrial fragmentation and bioenergetic defects. While these studies provide valuable insight at fixed points in time, high-resolution, high-speed live imaging is essential for following mitochondrial injury in real time and identifying disease mechanisms. Here, we demonstrate the advantages of live imaging to investigate RPE mitochondrial dynamics in cell-based and mouse models. We show that mitochondria in the RPE form extensive networks that are destroyed by fixation and discuss important live imaging considerations that can interfere with accurate evaluation of mitochondrial integrity such as RPE differentiation status and acquisition parameters. Our data demonstrate that RPE mitochondria show localized heterogeneities in membrane potential and ATP production that could reflect focal changes in metabolism and oxidative stress. Contacts between the mitochondria and organelles such as the ER and lysosomes mediate calcium flux and mitochondrial fission. Live imaging of mouse RPE flatmounts revealed a striking loss of mitochondrial integrity in albino mouse RPE compared to pigmented mice that could have significant functional consequences for cellular metabolism. Our studies lay a framework to guide experimental design and selection of model systems for evaluating mitochondrial health and function in the RPE.
High-current density alkaline electrolyzers: The role of Nafion binder content in the catalyst coatings and techno-economic analysis
Authors: Zappia Marilena Isabella , Bellani Sebastiano , Zuo Yong , Ferri Michele , Drago Filippo , Manna Liberato , Bonaccorso Francesco
Published: October 2022

We report high-current density operating alkaline (water) electrolyzers (AELs) based on platinum on Vulcan (Pt/C) cathodes and stainless-steel anodes. By optimizing the binder (Nafion ionomer) and Pt mass loading (mPt) content in the catalysts coating at the cathode side, the AEL can operate at the following (current density, voltage, energy efficiency -based on the hydrogen higher heating value-) conditions (1.0 A cm−2, 1.68 V, 87.8%) (2.0 A cm−2, 1.85 V, 79.9%) (7.0 A cm−2, 2.38 V, 62.3%). The optimal amount of binder content (25 wt%) also ensures stable AEL performances, as proved through dedicated intermittent (ON-OFF) accelerated stress tests and continuous operation at 1 A cm−2, for which a nearly zero average voltage increase rate was measured over 335 h. The designed AELs can therefore reach proton-exchange membrane electrolyzer-like performance, without relying on the use of scarce anode catalysts, namely, iridium. Contrary to common opinions, our preliminary techno-economic analysis shows that the Pt/C cathode-enabled high-current density operation of single cell AELs can also reduce substantially the impact of capital expenditures (CAPEX) on the overall cost of the green hydrogen, leading CAPEX to operating expenses (OPEX) cost ratio <10% for single cell current densities ≥0.8 A cm−2. Thus, we estimate a hydrogen production cost as low as $2.06 kgH2−1 for a 30 years-lifetime 1 MW-scale AEL plant using Pt/C cathodes with mPt of 150 μg cm−2 and operating at single cell current densities of 0.6–0.8 A cm−2. Thus, Pt/C cathodes enable the realization of AELs that can efficiently operate at high current densities, leading to low OPEX while even benefiting the CAPEX due to their superior plant compactness compared to traditional AELs.
A macrocyclic molecule with multiple antioxidative activities protects the lens from oxidative damage
Authors: Zhang Jinmin , Yu Yu , Mekhail Magy A. , Wu Hongli , Green Kayla N.
Published: October 2022

Growing evidence links oxidative stress to the development of a cataract and other diseases of the eye. Treatments for lens-derived diseases are still elusive outside of the standard surgical interventions, which still carry risks today. Therefore, a potential drug molecule OHPy2N2 was explored for the ability to target multiple components of oxidative stress in the lens to prevent cataract formation. Several pathways were identified. Here we show that the OHPy2N2 molecule activates innate catalytic mechanisms in primary lens epithelial cells to prevent damage induced by oxidative stress. This protection was linked to the upregulation of Nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and downstream antioxidant enzyme for glutathione-dependent glutaredoxins, based on Western Blot methods. The anti-ferroptotic potential was established by showing that OHPy2N2 increases levels of glutathione peroxidase, decreases lipid peroxidation, and readily binds iron (II) and (III). The bioenergetics pathway, which has been shown to be negatively impacted in many diseases involving oxidative stress, was also enhanced as evidence by increased levels of Adenosine triphosphate product when the lens epithelial cells were co-incubated with OHPy2N2. Lastly, OHPy2N2 was also found to prevent oxidative stress-induced lens opacity in an ex vivo organ culture model. Overall, these results show that there are multiple pathways that the OHPy2N2 has the ability to impact to promote natural mechanisms within cells to protect against chronic oxidative stress in the eye.
Spatial models of jaguar energy expenditure in response to border wall construction and remediation
Authors: Chambers Samuel N. , Villarreal Miguel L. , Norman Laura M. , Bravo Juan Carlos , Traphagen Myles B.
Published: October 2022

The construction of a wall at the United States-Mexico border is known to impede and deter movement of terrestrial wildlife between the two countries. One such species is the jaguar, in its northernmost range in the borderlands of Arizona and Sonora. We developed an anisotropic cost distance model for jaguar in a binational crossing area of the Madrean Sky Islands at the United States-Mexico border in Southern Arizona as a case study by using previously collected GPS tracking data for jaguars, bioenergetic calculations for pumas, and a digital elevation model. This model describes projected energy expenditure for jaguar to reach key water sources north of the international border. These desert springs and the broader study region provide vital habitat for jaguar conservation and reintroduction efforts in the United States. An emerging impediment to jaguar conservation and reintroduction is border infrastructure including border wall. By comparing walled and un-walled border sections, and three remediation scenarios, we demonstrate that existing border infrastructure significantly increases energy expenditure by jaguars and that some partial remediation scenarios are more beneficial than others. Our results demonstrate opportunities for remediation. Improved understanding of how border infrastructure impacts physiological requirements and resulting impacts to jaguar and other terrestrial wildlife in the United States-Mexico borderlands may inform conservation management.
Different mechanisms of mitral regurgitation in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A clinical case and literature review
Authors: Molisana Michela , Selimi Adelina , Gizzi Germana , D’Agostino Simone , Ianni Umberto , Parato Vito Maurizio
Published: October 2022

Background

Abnormalities of the mitral valve (MV) apparatus are typical features of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). These abnormalities include leaflet elongation, thick leaflets, displacement of papillary muscle, and systolic anterior motion (SAM) of the MV anterior leaflet. Mitral valve chordal rupture associated with HCM is a rare but serious issue capable of change the clinical apparence and the prognosis of the patient.

Case summary

A 57-year-old lady with a history of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and a previous single episode of atrial fibrillation (treated with pharmacological cardioversion), presented to the Emergency Department for worsening dyspnea (New York Heart Association Classification class IV). A trans-thoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed a significant, septal, and asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy (basal anteroseptal wall diastolic thickness of 19 mm) with normal left ventricle systolic function. A SAM of AML was evident together with a left ventricular outflow tract gradient of 56 mmHg at rest, rising to 136 mmHg during the Valsalva maneuver. In addition, there was evidence of moderate to severe mitral regurgitation (MR) with an anteriorly directed jet, not very typical of MR related to SAM. A 2D-3D trans-esophageal echocardiogram (2D-3D TEE) revealed a combined MR mechanism based on PML degenerative prolapse with P2-flail from ruptured chordae with related eccentric anteriorly directed regurgitant jet, together with a second regurgitant posteriorly directed jet, related to SAM of AML. The patient underwent MV repair together with septal myectomy, with a good final outcome.

Conclusion

Pre-operative echocardiography (both TTE and 2D-3D TEE) is an essential tool in order to detect different MV abnormalities in patients with HCM. These types of patients should never be treated by septal reduction alone. Surgical MV repair or replacement, together with septal myectomy, may be the preferred approach.
Mechanism of action and therapeutic use of bempedoic acid in atherosclerosis and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Biolo Gianni , Vinci Pierandrea , Mangogna Alessandro , Landolfo Matteo , Schincariol Paolo , Fiotti Nicola , Mearelli Filippo , Di Girolamo Filippo Giorgio
Published: October 2022

Bempedoic acid is a new cholesterol-lowering drug, which has recently received US FDA and EMA approval. This drug targets lipid and glucose metabolism as well as inflammation via downregulation of ATP-citrate lyase and upregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). The primary effect is the reduction of cholesterol synthesis in the liver and its administration is generally not associated to unwanted muscle effects. Suppression of hepatic fatty acid synthesis leads to decreased triglycerides and, possibly, improved non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Bempedoic acid may decrease gluconeogenesis leading to improved insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and metabolic syndrome. The anti-inflammatory action of bempedoic acid is mainly achieved via activation of AMPK pathway in the immune cells, leading to decreased plasma levels of C-reactive protein. Effects of bempedoic acid on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and chronic liver disease have been assessed in randomized clinical trials but require further confirmation. Safety clinical trials in phase III indicate that bempedoic acid administration is generally well-tolerated in combination with statins, ezetimibe, or proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors to achieve low-density lipoprotein cholesterol targets. The aim of this narrative review on bempedoic acid is to explore the underlying mechanisms of action and potential clinical targets, present existing evidence from clinical trials, and describe practical management of patients.
Understanding the scope of intracardiac echocardiography in catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmia
Authors: Ma Chuanzhen , Chen Tongshuai , Chen Yanbo , Ge Junye , Han Wenqiang , Wang Qinhong , Zhong Jingquan
Published: October 2022

Over the last few decades, catheter ablation has emerged as the first-line treatment for ventricular arrhythmias. However, detailed knowledge of cardiac anatomy during the surgery remains the prerequisite for successful ablation. Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is a unique imaging technique, which provides real-time visualization of cardiac structures, and is superior to other imaging modalities in terms of precise display of cardiac tissue characteristics as well as the orientation of anatomical landmarks. This article aimed to introduce the various advantages and limitations of ICE in the ablation of ventricular arrhythmias.
Spatio-temporal changes in degassing behavior at Stromboli volcano derived from two co-exposed SO2 camera stations
Authors: Delle Donne Dario , Lo Coco Eleonora , Bitetto Marcello , La Monica Francesco Paolo , Lacanna Giorgio , Lages Joao , Ripepe Maurizio , Tamburello Giancarlo , Aiuppa Alessandro
Published: October 2022

Improving volcanic gas monitoring techniques is central to better understanding open-vent, persistently degassing volcanoes. SO2 cameras are increasingly used in volcanic gas studies, but observations are commonly limited to one single camera alone viewing the volcanic plume from a specific viewing direction. Here, we report on high frequency (0.5 Hz) systematic measurements of the SO2 flux at Stromboli, covering a 1-year long observation period (June 2017-June 2018), obtained from two permanent SO2 cameras using the same automated algorithm, but imaging the plume from two different viewing directions. Our aim is to experimentally validate the robustness of automatic SO2 camera for volcano monitoring and to demonstrate the advantage of using two co-exposed SO2 camera stations to better capturing degassing dynamics at open-vent volcanoes. The SO2 flux time-series derived from the two SO2 camera stations exhibit good match, demonstrating the robustness of the automatic SO2 camera method. Our high-temporal resolution SO2 records resolve individual Strombolian explosions as transient, repetitive gas bursts produced by the sudden release of over pressurized gas pockets and scoriae. Calculations show that explosive degassing activity accounts for ∼10% of the total SO2 emission budget (dominated by passive degassing) during mild regular open-vent activity. We show that the temporal variations of the explosive SO2 flux go in tandem with changes in total SO2 flux and VLP seismicity, implicating some commonality in the source processes controlling passive degassing and explosive activity. We exploited the spatial resolution of SO2 camera to discriminate degassing at two distinct regions of the crater area, and to minimize biases due by the station position respect to the target plume. We find that the SO2 fluxes from southwest-central (SWCC) and northeast (NEC) crater areas oscillate coherently but those from the NEC are more sensitive to the changes in the volcanic intensity. We interpret this as due to preferential gas/magma channeling into the structurally weaker north-eastern portion of the crater terrace in response to increasing supply rate of buoyant, bubble-rich magma in the shallow plumbing system.
Digital transformation in times of crisis: Challenges, attitudes, opportunities and lessons learned from students’ and faculty members’ perspectives
Authors: Aljanazrah Ahmad , Yerousis George , Hamed Ghadeer , Khlaif Zuheir N.
Published: October 2022

The COVID-19 crises forced and accelerated digital transformation in higher education institutions. Acceptance of the adoption of digital technologies in those institutions as well as their digital and educational readiness and resilience are important key success factors for this transformation. The objective of this study was to explore challenges, attitudes, opportunities and lessons learned of digital transformation in times of crises at the university level from faculty members’ and students’ perspectives. The study used Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as a theoretical framework. In order to achieve the objective of the study a qualitative method was used. A total of 14 focus group interviews with 62 faculty members and 37 students were conducted in a mid-size university in Palestine. Thematic analysis was used to analyze data gathered from the focus group sessions. Results revealed many challenges toward digital transformation including technical and pedagogical infrastructure, social conditions, ease of use of software, digital pedagogy and online assessment. There are positive attitudes towards the availability of online resources and digitizing theoretical courses. However, students and faculty members still feel that they are not prepared enough for online education and expressed negative attitudes when digitizing practical courses. In order to achieve effective online teaching and learning, good preparation is a must for both students and lecturers which is not followed in actual delivery. Results also revealed several opportunities and benefits of digital transformation, namely, flexibility and the opportunity to develop new technical and educational skills. Researchers recommend carrying out this study in other universities and within different social and cultural contexts and applying mixed approach methodology for validating emerged results.
Recent advances in computational study and design of MOF catalysts for CO2 conversion
Authors: Chen Haoyuan
Published: October 2022

Catalytic conversion of the greenhouse gas CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels is highly beneficial to the environment, the economy, and the global energy supply. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising catalysts for this purpose due to their uniquely high structural and chemical tunability. In the catalyst discovery process, computational chemistry has emerged as an essential tool as it can not only aid in the interpretation of experimental observations but also provide atomistic-level insights into the catalytic mechanism. This Mini Review summarizes recent computational studies on MOF-catalyzed CO2 conversion through different types of reactions, discusses about the usage of various computational methods in those works, and provides a brief perspective of future works in this field.
Construction of an ecological security pattern based on functional wetland theory: A case study in a landscape city
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Gong , Zheng Zhi
Published: October 2022

The high-intensity development of a city encroaches on the ecological land, such as lakes, rivers, and forests, which changes the stable land relationship, resulting in ecological security problems, such as regional waterlogging and a decline in biodiversity. Identifying urban ecological systems and constructing ecological security patterns (ESP) are of great importance for urban ecological protection and spatial planning. The complexity of the ecological environment in landscape cities makes them more difficult for planning and construction than in plain cities. Additionally, they are more susceptible to torrential rains, mountain torrents, and river tides in the process of urbanization. This study introduced the functional wetland theory into the construction of the ESP and obtained a new set of methods for landscape cities. Based on the functional wetland theory, the “patch-corridor-matrix” model was used to combine the geographic information system (GIS) runoff and catchment analysis with the MSPA-MCR ecological corridor construction method to form a new wetland and habitat network by coupling the two together. Additionally, construction principles of protection priority, maximization of ecological benefits, guarantee of connectivity, and targeted design to guide the construction of landscape cities were put forward. This study takes the central urban area of Fuzhou as an example to show the application path of this method.
Possible differences in effects on ejaculate morphology between shape and size components of the intromittent membranous part of insect male genitalia: Phylogenetic comparative analyses in Carabidae
Authors: Sasakawa Kôji
Published: October 2022

Male genitalia exhibit extreme morphological diversity among animals, but its diversification mechanism has not been fully elucidated. In insects, the intromittent membranous part has been barely studied. This study performed phylogenetic comparative analysis to examine the morphological associations between the intromittent membranous part (endophallus) and ejaculate characteristics in two Carabidae taxa with different endophallus diversification patterns (genus Amara and tribe Pterostichini). Endophallus morphology was analyzed using geometric morphometrics, whereby effects of shape and size components can be evaluated separately. In both taxa, no morphological associations were found between spermatophore and endophallus traits, but an association was detected between conjugated sperm length and endophallus shape. Considering the available information regarding functional morphology, the association between conjugated sperm length and endophallus shape may indicate a physical interaction between conjugated sperm and the endophallus through the spermatophore. The similarity of results between the two taxa implies functional equivalence among different endophallus types. Concerning individual sperm, several results were detected, but functional interpretation was difficult. Overall, these results imply that shape and size have different effects on ejaculate morphology, with a larger effect of shape than size. This pattern is consistent with previous results for non-intromittent and intromittent sclerotized parts, and the diversification mechanism of the intromittent membranous part may be similar to those of non-intromittent and intromittent sclerotized parts.