bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cascade Structural Sizing Optimization with Large Numbers of Design Variables
Authors: Charmpis Dimos C. , Lagaros Nikos D.
Published: August 2022

In structural sizing optimization problems, the number of design variables typically used is relatively small. The aim of this work is to facilitate the use of large numbers of design variables in such problems, in order to enrich the set of available design options and offer the potential of achieving lower-cost optimal designs. For this purpose, the concept of cascading is employed, which allows an optimization problem to be tackled in a number of successive autonomous optimization stages. In this context, several design variable configurations are constructed, in order to utilize a different configuration at each cascade sizing optimization stage. Each new cascade stage is coupled with the previous one by initializing the new stage using the finally attained optimum design of the previous one. The first optimization stages of the cascade procedure make use of the coarsest configurations with small numbers of design variables and serve the purpose of basic design space exploration. The last stages exploit finer configurations with larger numbers of design variables and aim at fine-tuning the achieved optimal solution. The effectiveness of this sizing optimization approach is assessed using real-world aerospace and civil engineering design problems. Based on the numerical results reported herein, the proposed cascade optimization approach proves to be an effective tool for handling large numbers of design variables and the corresponding extensive design spaces in the framework of structural sizing optimization applications.
Cathodic Protection of Complex Carbon Steel Structures in Seawater
Authors: Refait Philippe , Grolleau Anne-Marie , Jeannin Marc , Sabot René
Published: August 2022

Cathodic protection efficiency of complex carbon steel structures in confined seawater environment was studied using a specific experimental device. Schematically, this device consisted of a Plexiglas matrix, crossed by a channel 50 cm long, 5 mm deep, 1.5 to 5 cm wide, which moreover included four bends at 90°. Seawater flowed continuously inside the channel over 12 steel coupons embedded in the Plexiglas matrix. Cathodic protection was applied at a constant potential of −1060 mV vs. Ag/AgCl-seawater with respect to a reference electrode located outside the channel, at the seawater flow entry. The potential of four selected coupons was monitored over time via a microelectrode set close to each coupon. It varied significantly with the distance separating the coupons from the channel entry. At the end of the 3.5-month experiment, a polarization curve was acquired. The residual corrosion rate under cathodic protection was estimated via the extrapolation of the anodic Tafel line. It varied from <1 µm yr−1 to 16 µm yr−1, depending on the potential reached by the coupon (between −900 and −1040 mV vs. Ag/AgCl-seawater) at the end of the experiment and on the properties of the calcareous deposit formed on the steel surface.
Microstructure and Melting Loss Behavior of Blast Furnace Incoming Coke and Radial Tuyere Coke
Authors: Wu Hongliang , Yu Laihao , Chang Shengchao , Zhang Yingyi , Yang Jialong
Published: August 2022

As an indispensable raw material in blast furnace ironmaking, coke plays an important role, which is also the key to low-carbon smelting and reducing ironmaking carbon emissions, so it is necessary to study its quality, degradation behavior, and microstructure evolution. In this work, the pore structure and micromorphology of the blast furnace incoming coke (IC) and tuyere coke (TC) were analyzed comprehensively by comparative research methods. The results showed that the microcrystalline structure of TC was more orderly than that of IC. In addition, the order degree of the coke microcrystalline structure increased first and then decreased in the radial direction and reached the highest value at the distance of 1–2 m from the tuyere. The porosity of radial TC increased obviously. The pore wall became thinner, and the pore size of the original micropores in TC expanded. Simultaneously, large numbers of micropores were also generated, and cracks appeared, resulting in the specific surface area and pore volume of TC becoming higher than that of IC. Moreover, the graphite structure inside TC increased, and the crystal structure became larger. In the radial direction, with an increase in temperature, the number of amorphous structures in coke decreased, the ordering increased, and the graphite structure continued to grow. However, along the direction of the furnace core, a decrease in temperature led to the stagnation of amorphous structure content and a decrease in graphitization degree.
Advances in Modified Atmosphere Packaging and Edible Coatings
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Smarak , Karlovits Igor
Published: August 2022

Food loss is a global concern that not only has a deep economic impact, but also has social and environmental impacts [...]
Examining the Non-Covalent Interactions for Two Polymorphs of a 2,1,3-benzoxadiazole Derivative
Authors: Standish Katherine , Zeller Matthias , Barbosa Antonio J. , Hillesheim Patrick C.
Published: August 2022

Two polymorphs of a benzoxadiazole derivative were examined to determine the interactions leading to the formation of two distinct crystalline forms. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to establish and contrast the interactions in the two samples. Fingerprints derived from the surface analysis were used to distinguish and lead the analysis in discovering the different interactions in the two crystals. π interactions, specifically, π-hole interactions with a nitro moiety, were found to play an important role in the formation of the crystal structure. Further, carbonyl interactions and π-stacking contribute to the overall relative stability of the different conformational polymorphs. Calculated energy frameworks were used to help visualize the interactions between molecules in the crystal structure, supported by an understanding of the individual interactions. The experimental data were supplemented with theoretical studies to establish a through understanding of these heterocyclic systems.
Ericaceous Plants: A Review for the Bioprospecting of Ericoid Mycorrhizae from Ecuador
Authors: Pacheco Flores de Valgaz Angela , Barcos-Arias Milton , Naranjo-Morán Jaime , Peña Tapia Denisse , Moreira-Gómez Rebeca
Published: August 2022

Ericaceae are a group of plants with biotechnological and commercial importance. These plants establish symbiotic associations with a wide group of mycorrhizal fungi. National and global studies have focused on two of them: arbuscular endomycorrhizae and ectomycorrhizae. The most recent type of mycorrhiza recorded is the cavendishioid ectendomycorrhizae. The cavendishioid is one of the least-studied and understood mycorrhizae, along with monotropoid and arbutoid mycorrhizae. Among the potentialities of these ectendomycorrhizae are the alleviation of environmental stress, the facilitation of establishment, survival, the ability to form dual mycorrhizae, and their importance as a fundamental biological element of plant ecological successions. However, the factors that influence or correlate with the diversity of some of these fungal guilds, as well as the functional significance of their associations, are still unknown. The present review focuses on ericoid mycorrhiza from Ecuador in order to promote their study and thus take advantage of the benefits that they provide to endemic species and those of commercial interest. This material contributes significantly to reducing research gaps and channeling applied projects in the biological sciences.
Characterization and Comparison of Eye Development and Phototransduction Genes in Deep- and Shallow-Water Shrimp Alvinocaris longirostris and Palaemon carinicauda
Authors: Hui Min , Xin Qian , Cheng Jiao , Sha Zhongli
Published: August 2022

The investigations of the molecular components of eye development and phototransduction in deep-sea species are important to elucidate the mechanism of their adaptation to dim light. In this study, eye transcriptomes of the shrimp Alvinocaris longirostris from the deep-sea chemosynthetic ecosystem and the shallow-water shrimp Palaemon carinicauda were compared. Two Pax6 homologs with low expression levels were identified in both species, which are essential transcription factors in eye development. This finding implies that the development of the two shrimp eyes at early embryo–larvae stages might be similar. The multiple components of the phototransduction pathway were identified in both species. However, the number of phototransduction components was significantly reduced in A. longirostris, as well as expression level. Particularly, short-wavelength/UV-sensitive (SWS/UVS) opsins were absent in A. longirostris and only one putative middle-wavelength-sensitive (MWS) opsin was identified in this species. The conserved sites and structures of the putative LWS opsins were found between deep-sea and shallow-water decapods, indicating that the opsins in deep-sea crustaceans may also conserve their spectral absorption and signal transduction function. Phylogenetic analyses supported the monophyly of LWS opsins and SWS/UVS opsins in arthropods, while the MWS clade fell outside of the main arthropod LWS clade. The results are expected to provide baseline for study of visual adaptation in deep-sea shrimps.
Genetic Diversity of Chinese Longsnout Catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) in Four Farmed Populations Based on 20 New Microsatellite DNA Markers
Authors: Zhang Lu , Mou Chenyan , Zhou Jian , Ye Hua , Wei Zhen , Ke Hongyu , Huang Zhipeng , Duan Yuanliang , Zhao Zhongmeng , Zhao Han , Li Huadong , Du Jun , Li Qiang
Published: August 2022

Freshwater aquaculture has a long and vibrant tradition in China. The Chinese longsnout catfish (Leiocassis longirostris) is a popular economic freshwater fish native to China. Understanding the genetic structure of L. longirostris populations is important for ensuring the efficacy of management practices and the sustainability of future increases in production. In this study, we used Illumina sequencing technology to isolate 20 novel polymorphic microsatellites from the genome of L. longirostris. These microsatellites were used to analyze the genetic diversity of 240 L. longrostris individuals from four populations. Genetic diversity parameters (NA, HO, HE, I, PIC, and FST) of the four farmed L. longirostris populations were analyzed. The level of genetic differentiation among the four farmed L. longirostris populations (inferred by pairwise comparisons of FST values) was low, but the genetic diversity of these populations was high, indicating that they still provide useful sources of genetic variation that could aid in breeding efforts. The STRUCTURE and ADMIXTURE analyses indicated that admixture might be occurring in the four L. longirostris populations, especially between the MS and YB populations. Understanding the genetic diversity of farmed L. longirostris populations and inbreeding prevention could greatly aid in breeding and production. These newly isolated microsatellite markers and the high genetic diversity of L. longirostris populations in the main breeding areas have important implications for the breeding and stock management of L. longirostris.
Deep Learning Artificial Intelligence to Predict the Need for Tracheostomy in Patients of Deep Neck Infection Based on Clinical and Computed Tomography Findings—Preliminary Data and a Pilot Study
Authors: Chen Shih-Lung , Chin Shy-Chyi , Ho Chia-Ying
Published: August 2022

Background: Deep neck infection (DNI) can lead to airway obstruction. Rather than intubation, some patients need tracheostomy to secure the airway. However, no study has used deep learning (DL) artificial intelligence (AI) to predict the need for tracheostomy in DNI patients. Thus, the purpose of this study was to develop a DL framework to predict the need for tracheostomy in DNI patients. Methods: 392 patients with DNI were enrolled in this study between August 2016 and April 2022; 80% of the patients (n = 317) were randomly assigned to a training group for model validation, and the remaining 20% (n = 75) were assigned to the test group to determine model accuracy. The k-nearest neighbor method was applied to analyze the clinical and computed tomography (CT) data of the patients. The predictions of the model with regard to the need for tracheostomy were compared with actual decisions made by clinical experts. Results: No significant differences were observed in clinical or CT parameters between the training group and test groups. The DL model yielded a prediction accuracy of 78.66% (59/75 cases). The sensitivity and specificity values were 62.50% and 80.60%, respectively. Conclusions: We demonstrated a DL framework to predict the need for tracheostomy in DNI patients based on clinical and CT data. The model has potential for clinical application; in particular, it may assist less experienced clinicians to determine whether tracheostomy is necessary in cases of DNI.
Cryptococcal Pneumonia: An Unusual Complication in a COVID-19 Patient
Authors: Štingl Jan , Hylmarová Julie , Lengerová Martina , Maláska Jan , Stašek Jan
Published: August 2022

Cryptococcal superinfection is a rare but potentially fatal complication, especially if its detection and subsequent treatment are delayed. Histopathological findings of pulmonary parenchyma from a deceased patient with these complications were acquired. Quite interestingly, only a minimal inflammatory reaction could be seen in an individual with no previously known immune suppression, indicating a disturbance of the immune system. This finding was well in concordance with the described changes in cellular immunity in COVID-19. We report the case of a 60 year old male with critical coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) complicated by cryptococcal pneumonia and multiorgan failure. Both X-ray and CT scans revealed lung infiltrates corresponding with COVID-19 infection early after the onset of symptoms. Despite receiving standard treatment, the patient progressed into multiple organ failure, requiring mechanical ventilation, circulatory support, and haemodialysis. Cryptococcus neoformans was detected by subsequent BAL, and specific antifungal treatment was instituted. His clinical status deteriorated despite all treatment, and he died of refractory circulatory failure after 21 days from hospital admission. Histopathological findings confirmed severe diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) caused by COVID-19 and cryptococcal pneumonia. Timely diagnosis of cryptococcal superinfection may be challenging; therefore, PCR panels detecting even uncommon pathogens should be implemented while taking care of critical COVID-19 patients.
Predictive Significance of Two MMP-9 Promoter Polymorphisms and Acetylated c-Jun Transcription Factor for Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Advancement
Authors: Rončević Jelena , Janković Miljuš Jelena , Išić Denčić Tijana , Božić Vesna , Živaljević Vladan , Šelemetjev Sonja , Đorić Ilona
Published: August 2022

Papillary thyroid carcinoma represents a challenge from a prognostic standpoint. Molecular alterations responsible for PTC advancement include MMP-9 genetic promoter polymorphisms that bind transcription factors with varying degrees of affinity and, hence, constitute a predisposition for MMP-9 expression. We examined how two promoter polymorphisms (the -1562 C/T transition and -131 (CA)n tandem repeats) as well as levels of the c-Jun transcription factor and its modified form acetylated at Lys271 influence MMP-9 expression and PTC progression. A significant proportion of PTC samples were heterozygous for the (CA)n tandem repeat number, had a transcription-promoting T allele at -1562, and expressed high levels of c-Jun, acetylated c-Jun, and MMP-9 protein. The T allele at the -1562 position accompanied the elevated MMP-9 protein expression, while high acetylated c-Jun levels accompanied the high MMP-9 protein levels on mRNA. The -1562 C/T transition, MMP-9, and acetylated c-Jun were associated with the presence of extra-thyroid invasion and degree of tumor infiltration, while the T allele and acetylated c-Jun also correlated with tumor stage. We conclude that the -1562 MMP-9 polymorphism and levels of acetylated c-Jun affect PTC progression via modulation of MMP-9 levels. Genotyping the MMP-9 at -1562 and estimating the levels of MMP-9 and acetylated c-Jun in PTC may prove beneficial in identifying high-risk patients.
Low Impact of Clonal Hematopoiesis on the Determination of RAS Mutations by Cell-Free DNA Testing in Routine Clinical Diagnostics
Authors: Roma Cristin , Sacco Alessandra , Forgione Laura , Esposito Abate Riziero , Lambiase Matilde , Dotolo Serena , Maiello Monica Rosaria , Frezzetti Daniela , Nasti Guglielmo , Morabito Alessandro , De Luca Antonella , Normanno Nicola
Published: August 2022

Targeted sequencing of circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) is used in routine clinical diagnostics for the identification of predictive biomarkers in cancer patients in an advanced stage. The presence of KRAS mutations associated with clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) might represent a confounding factor. We used an amplicon-based targeted sequencing panel, covering selected regions of 52 genes, for circulating cell-free total nucleic acid (cfTNA) analysis of 495 plasma samples from cancer patients. The cfDNA test failed in 4 cases, while circulating cell-free RNA (cfRNA) sequencing was invalid in 48 cases. In the 491 samples successfully tested on cfDNA, at least one genomic alteration was found in 222 cases (45.21%). We identified 316 single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in 21 genes. The most frequently mutated gene was TP53 (74 variants), followed by KRAS (71), EGFR (56), PIK3CA (33) and BRAF (19). Copy number variations (CNVs) were detected in 36 cases, while sequencing of cfRNA revealed 6 alterations. Analysis with droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) of peripheral blood leukocyte (PBL)-derived genomic DNA did not identify any KRAS mutations in 39 cases that showed KRAS mutations at cfDNA analysis. These findings suggest that the incidence of CHIP-associated KRAS mutations is relatively rare in routine clinical diagnostics.
On 3D Reconstruction Using RGB-D Cameras
Authors: Tychola Kyriaki A. , Tsimperidis Ioannis , Papakostas George A.
Published: August 2022

The representation of the physical world is an issue that concerns the scientific community studying computer vision, more and more. Recently, research has focused on modern techniques and methods of photogrammetry and stereoscopy with the aim of reconstructing three-dimensional realistic models with high accuracy and metric information in a short time. In order to obtain data at a relatively low cost, various tools have been developed, such as depth cameras. RGB-D cameras are novel sensing systems that capture RGB images along with per-pixel depth information. This survey aims to describe RGB-D camera technology. We discuss the hardware and data acquisition process, in both static and dynamic environments. Depth map sensing techniques are described, focusing on their features, pros, cons, and limitations; emerging challenges and open issues to investigate are analyzed; and some countermeasures are described. In addition, the advantages, disadvantages, and limitations of RGB-D cameras in all aspects are also described critically. This survey will be useful for researchers who want to acquire, process, and analyze the data collected.
A Study of Young Adults with Visual Impairments and Driver’s Education
Authors: Pasley Molly A.
Published: August 2022

In this qualitative study, young adults with visual impairments aged 18–27 and family members were studied to determine the effects of state-mandated high school driver’s education on independent travel, self-efficacy, and the transition to adulthood. A young person’s ability to travel independently can determine whether he or she transitions successfully from one life stage to another. Concepts from different social theorists are used to form the theoretical frame for data analysis. The author finds that in spite of curricular and pedagogical intervention, regardless of technological advances, and despite low-vision/blind youth’s accomplishments and determination to succeed, young people with low vision/blindness nevertheless continue to be challenged in the realms of the transition to adulthood, securing employment, and independent living due to persistent, societal-level discrimination and perceived incapability. These persistent, unwarranted forms of discrimination profoundly affect young adults’ perceptions of self-efficacy and more often than not close doors to their success. The author posits that societal-level intervention is required to effect meaningful, equitable change designed to dismantle the current systemic discrimination plaguing youth and young adults with visual impairments.
Differences in Supragingival Microbiome in Patients with and without Full-Crown Prostheses
Authors: Guo Manli , Zhang Zhidong , Lu Jiyuan , Wang Di , Yan Yimin , Zhang Shen , Yu Xin , Su Songhua , Yuan Lu , Li Zhige , Zhang Baoping
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To characterize the microflora profile of supragingival biofilm in patients with and without full-crown prostheses. Methods: Plaque samples of full-crown prostheses and teeth in patients with porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns, all-ceramic crowns, and no prostheses were collected (three patients per group), using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology to conduct DNA sequencing on the samples and using Qiime, R, and PICRUSt2 software to perform bioinformatics analyses and functional analyses on sequencing data. Results: In total, 110,209 valid sequences were obtained in the experiment, corresponding to 11 phyla and 120 genera. The predominant species shared by the three groups were phyla Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes, Fusobacteria, and Proteobacteria and genera Rothia, Porphyromonas, Prevotella, Streptococcus, Veillonella, Leptotrichia, Neisseria, Citrobacter, and Pseudomonas. The species-difference analysis showed that genus Hameophilus significantly increased after the patient wore the dental prosthesis. Compared with the no-prosthesis samples, the functional analysis showed that cell motility increased in the samples from full-crown prostheses, while replication and repair, and translation decreased. Conclusions: This study reveals the changes in the oral microbial community of patients with full-crown prostheses, which could provide insights regarding the safety of materials for long-term use in the oral cavity.
The Correlation between Budgets and Matriculation Exams: The Case of Jewish and Arab Schools in Israel
Authors: Zeedan Rami , Hogan Rachel Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Standardized testing in the Israeli education system presents a cavernous achievement gap between the dominant Jewish and Arab student populaces. This paper assesses the role of one major factor contributing to this discrepancy in test scores: budget allocation. Specifically, we evaluate the relationship between test scores and budget in Israel proper while controlling for Arab and Jewish school systems. The findings from the 2008 to 2018 data demonstrate the increased allocation of budgets and higher test scores in Arab schools. The statistical analysis confirmed a positive correlation between budgets and test scores. Overall, budget factors were found to have a much higher impact on Arab schools than Jewish schools. This was even more significant in Druze schools, which received the higher increase in budget and achieved the most significant improvements in Bagrut scores. As a result, this research challenges previous findings within the educational literature, identifies significant implications as byproducts of this variable relationship, and proposes future policy adjustments and research expansion.
Global Citizenship Competencies of Filipino Students: Using Machine Learning to Explore the Structure of Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Competencies in the 2019 Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics
Authors: Bernardo Allan B. I. , Cordel Macario O. , Ricardo Justin Gerard E. , Galanza Meniah Ann Martha C. , Almonte-Acosta Sherlyne
Published: August 2022

While the Philippines is still building its global citizenship curriculum, there are global citizenship competencies already articulated in existing curriculum guides. Using data from a nationally representative sample of Grade 5 students in the Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM) assessment, we explored Filipino learners’ current global competencies. We used machine learning approaches to determine the best models to predict the six SEA-PLM global competency indices; models generated by Multilayer Perceptrons performed better than other techniques. Shapley Additive Explanations approach was applied to identify variables that had the most impact on the model of each global competency index. Some variables were important predictors across the indices: concern about pollution, feeling connected to people from other countries, beliefs about the importance of learning about other countries, how countries relate to each other, and how natural disasters in other countries affect the Philippines are variables that were associated with global competency indices. Willingness to participate in classroom debates also positively predicted the indices but willingness to participate in classroom elections negatively predicted indices related to knowledge and behavior intention indices. We discuss how patterns in Filipino students’ emerging global competencies can guide curriculum development.
A Survey on MAC-Based Physical Layer Security over Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Rehman Attique Ur , Mahmood Muhammad Sajid , Zafar Shoaib , Raza Muhammad Ahsan , Qaswar Fahad , Aljameel Sumayh S. , Khan Irfan Ullah , Aslam Nida
Published: August 2022

Physical layer security for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is a laborious and highly critical issue in the world. Wireless sensor networks have great importance in civil and military fields or applications. Security of data/information through wireless medium remains a challenge. The data that we transmit wirelessly has increased the speed of transmission rate. In physical layer security, the data transfer between source and destination is not confidential, and thus the user has privacy issues, which is why improving the security of wireless sensor networks is a prime concern. The loss of physical security causes a great threat to a network. We have various techniques to resolve these issues, such as interference, noise, fading in the communications, etc. In this paper we have surveyed the different parameters of a security design model to highlight the vulnerabilities. Further we have discussed the various attacks on different layers of the TCP/IP model along with their mitigation techniques. We also elaborated on the applications of WSNs in healthcare, military information integration, oil and gas. Finally, we have proposed a solution to enhance the security of WSNs by adopting the alpha method and handshake mechanism with encryption and decryption.
Attribute-Based Access Control Meets Blockchain-Enabled Searchable Encryption: A Flexible and Privacy-Preserving Framework for Multi-User Search
Authors: Han Jiujiang , Li Ziyuan , Liu Jian , Wang Huimei , Xian Ming , Zhang Yuxiang , Chen Yu
Published: August 2022

Searchable encryption enables users to enjoy search services while protecting the security and privacy of their outsourced data. Blockchain-enabled searchable encryption delivers the computing processes that are executed on the server to the decentralized and transparent blockchain system, which eliminates the potential threat of malicious servers invading data. Recently, although some of the blockchain-enabled searchable encryption schemes realized that users can search freely and verify search results, unfortunately, these schemes were inefficient and costly. Motivated by this, we proposed an improved scheme that supports fine-grained access control and flexible searchable encryption. In our framework, the data owner uploads ciphertext documents and symmetric keys to cloud database and optional KMS, respectively, and manipulates the access control process and searchable encryption process through smart contracts. Finally, the experimental comparison conducted on a private Ethereum network proved the superiority of our scheme.
Possibility of a Portable Power Generator Using Dielectric Elastomers and a Charging System for Secondary Batteries
Authors: Chiba Seiki , Waki Mikio
Published: August 2022

Energy generation using dielectric elastomers (DE) has received a great deal of attention due to their light weight, low cost, and high efficiency. This method is an environmentally friendly system that generates electricity without emitting carbon dioxide and without using rare earths, and can contribute to the reduction of global warming. However, this DE system is expected to be used for wearables, such as shoe power generation, because it is not yet possible to make an energy generation element of a very large size. The problem is that this small DE generator can only generate a small amount of energy at one time. Therefore, in order to increase energy generation efficiency, it is necessary to use a material with higher conductivity for the DE electrode. Moreover, since DE energy generation is output at a high voltage, a circuit capable of stepping down with high efficiency is required in order to use this power for ordinary electric appliances. In addition to this, a circuit that can charge the secondary battery with high efficiency from the surplus power obtained by energy generation is also required. However, these are still technically difficult and have hardly been studied so far. We identified a highly efficient step-down circuit using two diaphragm-type DEs with a diameter of 8 cm, dropped 3000 V to 3.3 V, and succeeded in charging the secondary battery. The possibility of wearable or portable energy generation was shown in a commercial manner.
Combining the Water–Energy–Food and Food Waste–Food Loss–Food Security Nexuses to Reduce Resource Waste
Authors: Skawińska Eulalia , Zalewski Romuald I.
Published: August 2022

The availability of water, energy and food plays a key role in meeting the basic needs of the world population and allowing them to achieve prosperity and supports the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs). These three fundamental resources are closely interrelated, with their deep interdependencies reflected in various concepts of the ‘water–energy–food nexus’ (W–E–F). One-third of the total food produced globally results in food loss and waste (FL and FW), which also means the waste of resources used for their production, mainly energy and water. We thus propose a fusion of the W–E–F nexus and the FS–FW–FL nexus to achieve a better correlation between food production and food consumption in order to avoid additional negative effects. We explore the research problem of how the availability of water, energy and food resources can be improved by reducing FW and FL. The objective of this paper is to present an overview of opportunities to reduce the negative effects of FWL. The review paper is based on a comprehensive analysis of the literature, exploration of various (basic and extended) W–E–F models and their linkages with SDG and the entirety of the food supply chain from field to table. In addition to a literature analysis, we applied comparative methods, modeling, visualization and basic indicators of descriptive statistics. Although the amount of literature on this topic is growing, we found that systematic knowledge is still scarce, with each new study putting forth yet more new solutions. Although the data in various studies show somewhat different results, we conclude that reducing FW and FL has a positive, harmonizing effect on the W–E–F nexus.
Changes in Stabile Organic Carbon in Differently Managed Fluvisol Treated by Two Types of Anaerobic Digestate
Authors: Slepetiene Alvyra , Kochiieru Mykola , Skersiene Aida , Mankeviciene Audrone , Belova Olgirda
Published: August 2022

Biogas and anaerobic digestion has begun to be considered an important renewable and sustainable energy source. The sustainable development of the anaerobic digestion process depends largely on the ability to manage large amounts of by-products generated during the biogas production process. We hypothesized that the use of digestate increases the accumulation of C in stable forms. We supposed that the effect of digestate on soil depends on the land-use system, leading to different stratifications of C. The main task of our research was to ascertain changes in the amount of stabile organic carbon (SOCstabile) in digestate-treated soils. Two field experiments were performed using the same design in 2019–2020. We studied the fertilization effects of digestate on Fluvisol. Fertilization: control; separated liquid digestate 85 kg ha−1 N and 170 kg ha−1 170 N; separated solid digestate 85 kg ha−1 N and 170 kg ha−1 N. A randomized experimental design with three field replicates was used. In terms of carbon stabilization in Fluvisol, soil used for grassland showed an advantage over the arable soil. The study showed that digestate, especially solid digestate, contributes to C accumulation and stabilization in the soil.
Intersection of Climate Change, Energy, and Adaptation
Authors: Abraham John P. , Cheng Lijing
Published: August 2022

Climate change is a complex process that exists at the intersection of many human endeavors [...]
Super-Twisting Algorithm-Based Virtual Synchronous Generator in Inverter Interfaced Distributed Generation (IIDG)
Authors: Singh Sudhir Kumar , Singh Rajveer , Ashfaq Haroon , Sharma Sanjeev Kumar , Sharma Gulshan , Bokoro Pitshou N.
Published: August 2022

The significant proliferation of renewable resources, primarily inverter interfaced distributed generation (IIDG) in the utility grid, leads to a dearth of overall inertia. Subsequently, the system illustrates more frequency nadir and a steeper frequency response. This may degrade the dynamic frequency stability of the overall system. Further, virtual inertia has been synthetically developed in IIDG, which is known as a virtual synchronous generator (VSG). In this work, a novel STO-STC-based controller has been developed, which offers flexible inertia following system disturbance. The controller is based on the super-twisting algorithm (STA), which is a further advancement in the conventional sliding mode control (SMC), and has been incorporated in the control loop of the VSG. In this scheme, two steps have been implemented, where the first one is to categorize all states of the system using a super-twisting observer (STO) and further, it is required to converge essential states very quickly, exploiting a super-twisting controller (STC). Thus, the STO-STC controller reveals a finite-time convergence to the numerous frequency disturbances, based on various case studies. The performance of the controller has been examined in the MATLAB environment with time–domain results that corroborate the satisfactory performance of the STO-STC scheme and that illustrate eminence over the state of the art.
The Effect of Heat Source on Cost of Preparation of Household Food Packaging Waste for Recycling
Authors: Marcinkowski Andrzej , Haręża Paweł
Published: August 2022

The study concerns the preparation of post-consumer food packaging for selective collection that takes place in households. The previously reported results suggested that the economic cost of washing the packaging exceeded the value of recyclable materials. A shortage of up-to-date papers on the economic balance of packaging washing, taking into account current trends in the increase of prices of materials and energy carriers, has been identified. The main objective of this study was to determine the effect of the application of particular heat sources on the total cost of preparing the glass and plastic packaging for selective collection, as well as to compare the cost with the economic value of recyclables. Over the last ten years, a drop in the purchase price of glass cullet and post-consumer plastic, as well as an increase in the cost of cold and hot water, have been reported. Accordingly, the profit of packaging cleaning, defined as the difference between the value of recyclable materials and the cost of washing them, has decreased. The energy consumed for water heating was identified as the most relevant factor affecting the entire economic balance. Even assuming the most efficient water heating solutions, the pre-treatment of the post-consumer food packaging turned out to be unprofitable. The conclusion reached in the previously published study has been confirmed.
Experimental Investigation of Pore Characteristics and Permeability in Coal-Measure Sandstones in Jixi Basin, China
Authors: Huang Huazhou , Sun Yuantao , Chang Xiantong , Wu Zhengqing , Li Mi , Qu Shulei
Published: August 2022

The research of pore and permeability characteristics of tight sandstone reservoirs in coal-measure is critical for coal-measure gas development. In this study, the pore systems of tight sandstones were studied based on low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) data. The permeability of tight sandstones was obtained by the tester based on the pulse transient method. The permeability variation with the effective stress, grains, and pore characteristics was analyzed. The results show that the tight sandstone reservoirs in the coal-measure have low total porosity (2.80–4.14%), low effective porosity (0.51–1.56%), and low permeability (0.351 × 10−6–13.910 × 10−6 um2). LF-NMR T2 spectra of the testing sandstones show that the micropores are the most developed, but most of the micropores are immovable pores. The pore characteristics are significantly affected by the grain size of sandstones. The pore connectivity ranks from good to poor with decreasing sandstone particle size. The total porosity and effective porosity increase with the grain size. There is a near-linear negative relationship between permeability and effective stress when the effective stress is between 405 psi and 808 psi. The greater the number of movable pores and the larger the effective porosity, the bigger the permeability of the sandstone. The effective porosity of sandstones is a sensitive indicator for evaluating the permeability of tight sandstone reservoirs. The stress sensitivity coefficient of permeability (Ss) increases with the increase of the effective stress. The sandstone with lower permeability, smaller effective porosity, and finer grains has a higher Ss. The particle size of sandstone from coal-measure has a great influence on both permeability and Ss. The findings will provide a better understanding of the characterization of pore structure and permeability in the process the coal-measure gas extraction, which is useful for the efficient development of coal-measure gas.
The Role of Polycomb Proteins in Cell Lineage Commitment and Embryonic Development
Authors: Loh Chet H. , Veenstra Gert Jan C.
Published: August 2022

Embryonic development is a highly intricate and complex process. Different regulatory mechanisms cooperatively dictate the fate of cells as they progress from pluripotent stem cells to terminally differentiated cell types in tissues. A crucial regulator of these processes is the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2). By catalyzing the mono-, di-, and tri-methylation of lysine residues on histone H3 tails (H3K27me3), PRC2 compacts chromatin by cooperating with Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) and represses transcription of target genes. Proteomic and biochemical studies have revealed two variant complexes of PRC2, namely PRC2.1 which consists of the core proteins (EZH2, SUZ12, EED, and RBBP4/7) interacting with one of the Polycomb-like proteins (MTF2, PHF1, PHF19), and EPOP or PALI1/2, and PRC2.2 which contains JARID2 and AEBP2 proteins. MTF2 and JARID2 have been discovered to have crucial roles in directing and recruiting PRC2 to target genes for repression in embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Following these findings, recent work in the field has begun to explore the roles of different PRC2 variant complexes during different stages of embryonic development, by examining molecular phenotypes of PRC2 mutants in both in vitro (2D and 3D differentiation) and in vivo (knock-out mice) assays, analyzed with modern single-cell omics and biochemical assays. In this review, we discuss the latest findings that uncovered the roles of different PRC2 proteins during cell-fate and lineage specification and extrapolate these findings to define a developmental roadmap for different flavors of PRC2 regulation during mammalian embryonic development.
Conservation of Soil Organic Carbon in the National Park Santuario de Fauna y Flora Iguaque, Boyacá-Colombia
Authors: Andrade Hernán J. , Segura Milena A. , Canal-Daza Diana S.
Published: August 2022

Protected areas are important zones for the conservation of strategic ecosystems that provide environmental services to human populations. The Santuario de Fauna y Flora Iguaque (SFFI) (Boyacá, Colombia) preserves an important area of páramos and andean high-land forests that offer water and other services. Soil organic carbon (SOC) was estimated at a depth of 0–30 cm in the four dominant land uses: (1) natural grasslands prevailingly without trees and shrubs (NSWT), (2) broad-leaved forests with continuous canopy, not on mire (BFCC), (3) open heathlands and moorlands (OMH), and (4) dense heathlands and moorlands (DMH). This classification is based on Corine Land Cover, adapted for Colombia. Land uses did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) in the SOC stock, with values of 139.0, 131.1; 101.1; and 83.0 Mg C/ha in OMH, BFCC, NSWT, and DMH, respectively. In total, SFFI retains 593 Gg C in that soil layer. Projections of effects caused by potential land use changes show that up to 461.0 Gg CO2 could be transferred to the atmosphere if this conservation area is not preserved. SFFI, due to its conservation strategies, allows storing significant amounts of atmospheric carbon and becomes an effective strategy of climate change mitigation.
Genetic Structure of Pinus Populations in the Urals
Authors: Chertov Nikita , Nechaeva Yulia , Zhulanov Andrei , Pystogova Nina , Danilova Maria , Boronnikova Svetlana , Kalendar Ruslan
Published: August 2022

The sustainable use and conservation of forest resources must be carried out with a detailed study of the main forest-forming plant species. Coniferous forests form the basis of boreal forest ecosystems and are of great economic importance. Representatives of forest-forming boreal coniferous species are species of the genus Pinus, including Siberian pine (Pinus sibirica Du Tour) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), which are valuable and widely used woody plant species. The purpose of this research was to conduct an extended study of genetic diversity, genetic structure, and differentiation of P. sibirica and P. sylvestris populations under the conditions of their habitat in the Middle and Northern Urals. We studied twelve populations of two Pinus species using the inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR)-based DNA polymorphism detection PCR method. Populations are characterized by relatively high levels of genetic diversity (P. sylvestris: He = 0.163; ne = 1.270; I = 0.249; P. sibirica: He = 0.148; ne = 1.248; I = 0.225). Analysis of the intrapopulation genetic structure reveals that the studied populations are highly differentiated (P. sylvestris: GST = 0.362; P. sibirica: GST = 0.460). The interpopulation component comprised 36% and 46% of the total genetic diversity for P. sylvestris and P. sibirica, respectively. Using various algorithms to determine the spatial genetic structure, it was determined that P. sylvestris populations form two groups according to their location at a certain altitude above sea level. P. sibirica populations form two clusters, with an additional subdivision of the two populations into subclusters identified. The data obtained during the study may be useful for further research as well as for conservation management planning and related forestry practices aimed at preserving the genetic resources of valuable forest plant species.
Estimation of Broadleaf Tree Canopy Height of Wolong Nature Reserve Based on InSAR and Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Liu Xinyi , He Li , He Zhengwei , Wei Yun
Published: August 2022

Tree height is an important parameter for calculating forest carbon sink and assessing forest carbon cycle. In order to obtain forest tree height over a large area both efficiently and at a low cost, this study proposed an Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) combined with a machine learning method to estimate the tree canopy height. The forest height in the study area was obtained using Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry, which was considered to be the true canopy height. Two machine learning methods (Random Forest, Multi-layer perceptron) were used to establish the relationship between phase center height calculated by InSAR DEM differential interference method and coherent amplitude method with true canopy height. The topographic factor, backward scattering coefficient and coherence coefficient were introduced into the relationship model. It was found that the accuracy of tree height estimation using random forest and two InSAR methods can reach 0.95 and 0.94. The root-mean-square error was 1.76 m, 1.86 m, respectively. The accuracy of tree height estimation using multi-layer perceptron and two InSAR methods was 0.25 and 0.2. The root-mean-square error was 3.96 m and 4.13 m. The results indicated that the combination of InSAR and machine learning can estimate canopy height efficiently and at a low cost. Moreover, the integrated learning algorithm random forest demonstrated better stability and higher accuracy than the single learning algorithm multi-layer perceptron.
Forest Therapy in Germany, Japan, and China: Proposal, Development Status, and Future Prospects
Authors: Zhang Zhiyong , Ye Bing
Published: August 2022

Forests have provided support for human health and survival since ancient times. With improved public awareness of health issues and the importance of forest ecological functions, forest therapy has gradually gained momentum. Forest therapies have been applied around the world as preventive and alternative therapies to promote human health. As a safe, side-effect-free, low-cost, preventive, and alternative therapy, forest therapy has been scientifically proven to promote physical and mental health in humans. However, the forest therapy service system is still underdeveloped, and forest therapy has not become a mainstream part of clinical medical treatment methods in most countries worldwide. Therefore, in order to better present the development path and current situation of forest therapy in different countries and provide guidance for how other countries can develop similar interventions and clinical sites to base these activities, this study uses Germany, Japan, and China as examples to systematically tease out how forest therapy has developed and the status of forest therapy services in different countries, as well as the health benefits of forest therapy. Furthermore, the key components and traditional cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds related to forest therapy are discussed. Finally, based on published empirical research, we believe that forest therapy can be a solution to public health problems thanks to its multiple, medically proven health benefits. Forest therapy facilitates the return of people to the forest and nature to achieve health and well-being effects. However, there is a need for more research on the mechanisms (such as the immune system, endocrine system, nervous system, etc.) underlying forest therapy’s effectiveness, which should include strengthened collaborations between disciplines. In addition, the role of forest therapy services in promoting human health needs to be emphasized.