bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A preliminary study of mechanical treatments’ effect on the reactivation of hydrated cement paste
Authors: Argalis Pauls P , Sinka Maris , Bajare Diana
Published: January 2023

More than 4.4 billion metric tons of cement were produced in 2021 [1], making it one of the most common building materials. Unfortunately, excessive cement use brings up several environmental concerns, one being the enormous volumes of CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) created as a by-product. CO2e is a standard unit for measuring carbon footprint and can be calculated for all greenhouse gases using global warming potential. Reducing CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions is crucial in modern cement manufacturing, as 0.9 kg of CO2e is produced for every kg of cement. Cement manufacturing contributed by releasing 3.96 Gt of CO2e into the atmosphere in 2021. This issue is often remedied using recycled materials in the fresh concrete mix as supplementary or pozzolanic additives. Some researchers have focused on regaining the activity of hydrated cement paste by grinding and thermally activating it [2–5], but a low-strength binder would also work for many applications. A low-strength binder recovered with as little energy as possible (only grinding, no heat treatment) could be considered a more sustainable and less energy-intensive way of recovery of the cement binder matrix. This study investigated a technique for recycling hydrated cement paste by mechanical treatment to disintegrate the hydrated cement conglomerate to reveal the unhydrated cement particles [6] that can be used as a recovered cementitious binder from processing waste from the production of wood-cement boards. Processing waste is defined as cement particles containing hydrated and unhydrated cement [7] and spruce wood fibres. The partly hydrated cement in the waste stream was mechanically processed in a planetary mill to reactivate it and restore its cementitious characteristics. The binder was characterized by density and mechanical compressive strength.
Prototype of an experimental stand for investigating heat and moisture transfer phenomena in building materials
Authors: Wasik M , Dereszewski A , Łapka P
Published: January 2023

The prototype of an experimental stand for studying drying building materials is presented in the paper. The stand is designed to validate a numerical model of heat and moisture transfer in porous media. The experiment was conducted in forced convection conditions. A building material sample was located in a holder so that only one surface (the top one) had contact with flowing air in the duct. The sample exchanged heat and moisture with the flowing air through this surface. Two fans at the end of the duct induced the airflow through the vent. The stand was placed in a climatic chamber, stabilizing the temperature (22.5°C) and relative humidity (50%) during the experiment. A tensometric beam was used to measure the temporal variation of the sample mass. A resistance thermometer (PT100) was used to measure the temperature on the sample surface. Four samples (90×90×30mm each) from cellular concrete were prepared. Each sample was dried before the experiment, immersed in water for 24h, then wrapped in the foil and preconditioned (24h) in a climate chamber to equalize the temperature. The samples were dried on the stand for 48 hours. The procedure was repeated twice. The repeatability of results has been achieved. However, the accuracy of the experimental stand was insufficient. Hence further modifications need to be made were proposed.
Impact of Polypropylene, Steel, and PVA Fibre Reinforcement on Geopolymer Composite Creep and Shrinkage Deformations
Authors: Gailitis Rihards , Sprince Andina , Kozlovksis Tomass , Pakrastins Leonids , Volkova Viktorija
Published: January 2023

For the last 40 years, there has been increased interest in geopolymer composite development and its mechanical properties. In the last decades, there have been cases when geopolymer composites have been used for civil engineering purposes, such as buildings and infrastructure projects. The main benefit of geopolymer binder usage is that it has a smaller impact on the environment than the Portland cement binder. Emissions caused by geopolymer manufacturing are at least two times less than emissions caused by Portland cement manufacturing. As geopolymer polymerization requires elevated temperature, it also has a significant moisture evaporation effect that further increases shrinkage. It can lead to increased cracking and reduced service life of the structures. Due to this concern, for long-term strain reduction, such as plastic and drying shrinkage and creep, fibre reinforcement is added to constrain the development of stresses in the material. This research aims to determine how different fibre reinforcements would impact geopolymer composites creep and shrinkage strains. Specimens for long-term property testing purposes were prepared with 1% of steel fibres, 1% polypropylene fibres (PP), 0.5% steel and 0.5% polyvinyl alcohol fibres, 5% PP fibres, and without fibres (plain geopolymer). The lowest creep strains are 5% PP fibre specimens, followed by 1% PP fibre, plain, 0.5% steel fibre and 0.5% PVA fibre, and 1% steel fibre specimens. The lowest specific creep is to 5% PP fibre reinforced specimens closely followed by 1% PP fibre followed by 0.5% steel and 0.5% PVA fibre, plain and 1% steel fibre reinforced composites. Specimens with 0.5% steel and 0.5 PVA fibre showed the highest compressive strength, followed by 1% PP fibre specimens, plain specimens, 1% steel fibre, and 5% PP fibre reinforced specimens. Only specimens with 1% PP fibre and 0.5% steel, and a 0.5% PVA fibre inclusion showed improved mechanical properties. Geopolymer concrete mix with 1% PP fibre inclusion and 0.5% steel and 0.5% PVA fibre inclusion have a 4.7% and 11.3% higher compressive strength. All the other fibre inclusion into mixes showed significant decreases in mechanical properties.
The effects of 3D printing on frost resistance of concrete
Authors: Spurina Ella , Sinka Maris , Ziemelis Krists , Bajare Diana
Published: January 2023

3DCP is becoming more common in the construction industry nowadays, however, the aspects of durability of printed concrete are not well-studied yet. This paper focuses on determining how frost-thaw cycles affect printed concrete samples, compared to cast samples of the same concrete mix and whether the conventional concrete frost resistance tests can be applied for 3D printed concrete samples. Two different concrete mixes were both printed and cast – first one was a ready-made mix provided by a dry concrete mix manufacturer and was used for reference, whereas the other mix was prepared at the lab. First, 7 and 28-day compressive and flexural strength as well as density were determined to establish the difference between mechanical and material properties of both printed and cast concrete samples that were intended to be used for frost resistance testing according to standard CEN 12390-9. Next, both printed and cast samples of both mixes were subject to a total of 56 freeze-thaw cycles while submerged in NaCl solution, allowing to determine mass loss of each sample after N frost cycles. To conclude, the obtained results enable the authors to evaluate how 3D printing affects concrete resistance to frost/thaw cycles compared to conventionally cast concrete as well as the possible causes for this. Further research is needed to improve both the design mix of concrete as well as the printing and testing methodology of frost resistance of 3D printed concrete which would possibly lead to its increased use in exposed outdoor structures in northern regions.
Strategic scenarios of post-war recovery of sustainable development of Poltava region of Ukraine: innovative and environmental aspects
Authors: Kharazishvili Y , Bugayko D , Yashchyshyna I , Butorina V , Androshchuk I , Sribnyi O
Published: January 2023

The state and strategic scenarios of restoration of sustainable development of Poltava region of Ukraine in the post-war period are studied. To develop a strategic plan for the recovery of the Poltava region, a modern methodology of strategizing (scientific and strategic foresight) is used according to the principle “the future is determined by the trajectory into the future” and three strategic scenarios have been developed until 2027: realistic, optimistic and the scenario of entering the optimal zone of the EU countries, which correspond to the average annual growth rates of real GRP -4.94, -0.72 and 4.1%. The contribution of innovative factors to the economic growth of the region was determined using the modified Cobb-Douglas function and the Solow residual method, which prove the averaged contributions to economic growth: scientific and technological progress STP -3.7; labor 3.1; capital 0.38; production manufacturability 1.57; innovations 0.31%. The strategic dynamics of indicators of innovation and environmental safety on the trajectory of sustainable development are scientifically substantiated and the main threats are identified. The proposed methodology of adaptive response to threats of the environmental subsystem gives possibilities to preserve its stability and balanced sustainable development.
Factor-criteria assessment of greening prerequisites for transport infrastructure development in Ukraine
Authors: Hutsaliuk O , Bondar Iu , Kotsiurba O , Ostapenko O , Skoptsov K , Boiko O
Published: January 2023

The article examines the elements of factor-criterion assessment greening of the prerequisites for the genesis of the transport sector of Ukraine; in particular, the results of the evaluation of the evolution of the national transport industry. The methods of regulatory influence on the stages of the genesis of the national transport sector were studied, and the main problems of the evolution of the transport sector were systematized. It was determined that environmental protection of the transport sector is an important component of country’s environmental security as a whole. The contribution of the «All-European program on transport, environment and health protection», which is implemented by the joint efforts of the UNECE and WHO, as well as the current regulatory and legal acts of Ukraine, which reflect modern trends in the integration of environmental policy into transport, are analyzed. In this model, there are international components of the sphere of service implementation, guidelines for defining goals and promising directions of greening, which will ensure the strengthening of the ecological component of the transit potential of Ukraine.
The Analysis of Regional Economic Development (RED) through Community Based Tourism (CBT) at Ngilngof Tourism Village, Maluku, Indonesia
Authors: Tupamahu Maria Katje , Sandanafu Sally Paulina , Korlefura Criezta
Published: January 2023

Ngilngof village is one of the main tourist villages in Manyew Districts of Maluku Province, Indonesia. This is demonstrated by winning the championship award category of the advanced tourism villages in the 2019 National competition. The Development of Village Tourism (DVT) and Community Tourism (CBT) related empowerment needs publicity, with politics an important tool for the development of village management and the development of social and economic benefits and Regional Economic Development (RED). This study aimed to identify a general description of Ngilngof as a tourist village, and study the concept of economic development as a relationship between development and the social welfare and participation of the Ngilngof community. The research method used is a qualitative approach with case study design and interactive model analysis. Research data is measured utilising local economic, social and physical environmental perspectives. The key informants were selected using purposive sampling techniques, including the elements of the Ngilngof village apparatus, community leaders and tourism practitioners. The results showed the criteria for economic development of Ngilngof Tourism Village including attractions, amenities, accessibility and ancillary services have minor impact on the social and economic welfare of Ngilngof Community, however the analysis of RED factors does show a positive impact on rural economic development.
Prerequisites for the ecologization of recreational and tourist activities in Ukraine
Authors: Bondar Iu , Shchoholieva I , Sokolovskiy V , Petrenko N , Maliuga L , Tereshchuk N
Published: January 2023

The article considers the main steps of further greening of recreational and tourist activities in Ukraine and proposes models of greening of the enterprise’s activities. The world experience of forming the ecological and economic foundations of the genesis of eco-tourism in the recreation areas of the countries has been analyzed and summarized. The international ecotourism certification program « Green Globe 21 » and its sphere of influence, as well as the international environmental program « Green Key » in terms of the use of natural resources and natural materials, were investigated. A survey of hotel guests was conducted regarding the importance to them of activities related to the minimization of resource consumption, and the importance of criteria for the ecological use of hotel resources was determined. A profile map of consumer satisfaction with environmental services was created, which shows the advantages and disadvantages of hotel services after evaluating the various components of the satisfaction tree and highlights the main ways of balanced functioning of eco-tourism in the recreational areas of Ukraine identified..
Assessment of multifactor productivity based on empirical data in the agricultural sector of the economy of Ukraine
Authors: Kuznietsova T , Krasovska Y , Lesniak O , Podlevska O , Harnaha O
Published: January 2023

The importance of the expanded interpretation of the economic category “productivity” with the help of the index of “total factor productivity” and “multifactor productivity” has been revealed. The index approach was used to estimate the correlation between the total factor productivity and the cost of resources. The dynamics of the level of total factor productivity of agriculture in Ukraine was shown, which reflects the reduction of the effectiveness of the agrarian sector while increasing the volume of production in absolute terms. A set of factors that influence the productivity of agricultural production was offered. To substantiate the reasons reduced total factor productivity analyzed the dynamics of partial factor productivity, which indicates an increase in labor inputs and soil moisture regime. The approach to the expanded treatment of the economic category “productivity” with the introduction of such notions as “total factor productivity” and “multifactor productivity” has been stated. The methods and approaches to an estimation of multifactorial productivity (MFP) are systematized. A review of the factors and reasoning behind the decline in total factor productivity is provided. Dynamics are investigated and the basic factors of influence on increase of MFP, in particular in agrarian sector of economy of Ukraine are defined.
Optimization of production parameters of agricultural enterprises
Authors: Vinichenko I , Polehenka M , Ortina G , Abuselidze G , Kazarian H , Vinogradchyi V
Published: January 2023

The study substantiates the need to apply methods of economic and mathematical modelling of optimization of the production process of enterprises of the agrarian complex. The key elements of the various stages of development and construction of an economic and mathematical model of agricultural enterprises’ production resources that optimizes resource reserves for resource identification, judicious resource use, and enhancement of economic activity efficiency are taken into consideration. The proposed model may be used to analyze and discover resource potential reserves for businesses with any kind of ownership, as well as to identify elements of strategies to increase the economic activity of both the business as a whole and its individual units. The findings confirm that the employment of economic and mathematical approaches is efficient in evaluating agricultural firms’ resource potential as well as the optimization of raw materials, output, and sales. The process of modelling the activities of agricultural enterprises makes it possible to respond quickly to changes in demand for marketable products and make scientifically sound management decisions regarding the planning of production of its various types in order to maximize profits. Confirmation of the result is that the use of economic and mathematical methods is effective in assessing not only the resource potential of agricultural enterprises, but also the optimization of raw materials, production and sales. The process of modelling the activities of agricultural enterprises makes it possible to respond quickly to changes in demand for marketable products and make scientifically sound management decisions regarding the planning of production of its various types in order to maximize profits.
Directions for increasing the level of environmental friendliness of innovative and investment attractiveness of transport and logistics companies
Authors: Hutsaliuk O , Levchenko A , Storozhuk O , Zalevskyi A , Doroshenko T , Hryhorash S
Published: January 2023

The genesis of environmental friendliness, innovation and investment attractiveness of transport and logistics enterprises are relevant and require the formation of timely constructive approaches. The approach to evaluating the effectiveness of innovative activities in transport is substantiated, the use of which made it possible to establish the state of the processes of state regulation in this area. The stages of increasing investment attractiveness by the degree of intellectualization and partnership have been formed. It is proven that the assessment of the environmental component of the investment project is based on the principles of social and ethical marketing and is regulated by legislation. The investment strategy and its components have been improved. A system for supporting decision-making and goal-setting and institutional support for the genesis of transport and logistics infrastructure is proposed. The state of transport security of the regions is determined. An organizational model of the National Innovative Transport Hub and an approach to evaluating its functioning are proposed. It was determined that ecological and economic investments are aimed at increasing the economic efficiency of providing services in the transport sector, taking into account ecological interests.
Green recruitment and adaptation practices in GHRM
Authors: Tsymbaliuk S , Vasylyk A , Stoliaruk K
Published: January 2023

The research results confirmed the important role of green recruitment and adaptation in green human resource management (GHRM). The survey’s purpose was to evaluate the spread of green recruitment and staff adaptation practices in Ukraine. The theoretical model of green practices implementation in the processes of recruitment and staff adaptation is developed. The survey found that less than a third of organizations position themselves as green employers and develop green employer value propositions (EVPs) which are attractive to people with green behaviours. The practice of assessing and selecting candidates with green competencies has not become widespread. The lack of practice of including green competencies in the requirements and job advertisements does not allow the company to attract desirable candidates, including specialists with environmental knowledge and attitudes, despite such intentions. The study results also showed that more organizations use green practices during the onboarding and adaptation of new employees compared to recruitment and selection. The survey results confirmed the hypothesis that green recruitment and adaptation aren’t widespread in Ukrainian companies. Owners and managers need to pay more attention to introducing green issues in the recruitment and adaptation processes; study successful practices and adapt them to the specifics of the organization; develop green competencies in HR managers and specialists; to position themselves as a green employer.
Social audit as a tool of civil society aimed at ensuring the sustainability
Authors: Sysoieva I , Pozniakovska N , Mikluha O , Pukas A , Roleders V
Published: January 2023

A theoretical justification of the conducting a social audit was carried out, which involves the following stages: familiarization stage - to determine the expediency of the procedure; the initial stage is necessary to determine the executors; the organizational stage involves coordination between the contractor and the customer; during the experimental stage, the necessary information is collected; at the analytical stage, indicators of compliance of the state of the objects with the standards are compared; at the final stage, reporting documentation is prepared; at the completion, there is a meeting with the customer and a discussion of the results. The specified stages systematize the organizational process and contribute to the qualitative implementation of the social audit procedure as a whole. The definition of “social audit” has been clarified as a set of control measures in the form of monitoring, audits, inspections, surveys, questionnaires, which are carried out by stakeholders in order to determine the degree of social responsibility of the enterprise. The main criteria for the classification of social audit are summarized and systematized, namely: its functional purpose (social audit of compliance, efficiency audit). Characteristic features, advantages and disadvantages of auditing procedures performed by external and internal auditors are given.
Sustainable development of destination Bulgaria through alternative forms of tourism
Authors: Bozhinova M , Georgieva K
Published: January 2023

The idea of sustainable development of tourism is among the most significant trends in this sector globally. In Bulgaria, it is included in the National Strategy for Sustainable Development of Tourism in the Republic of Bulgaria. In the current economic, health and social situation, interest in the sustainable development of destination Bulgaria has strengthened. The current situation creates conditions to update and improve the product portfolio of destination Bulgaria, focusing efforts on using the possibilities of alternative forms of tourism, which find their interpretation in the tourist regionalization of the country and the formation of tourist routes with specialized destinations. The research aims to confirm the possibility of sustainable development of destination Bulgaria through the use of products related to alternative forms of tourism. The study object is the tourism destination Bulgaria’s sustainable development. For the needs of the research, standard scientific methods are used. The stated research tasks support the thesis that the use of specialized forms of tourism in the formation of the product portfolio of destination Bulgaria can contribute to its sustainable development. As a result, the need to use the potential of destination management organizations and the importance of sustainability certification systems is confirmed.
An Innovative Organic Agriculture Model for Sustainable Development of Rural Areas in Bulgaria
Authors: Petrova M , Nikolova M , Pavlov P
Published: January 2023

The EU policy is aimed at raising the standard of living in rural areas and supporting the processes related to uncovering and utilising their full potential. Rural territories in Bulgaria have unexploited potential, both in the use and protection of available resources and their social economic development, as well as in the generation of additional income. Through their sustainable development, a balance between economic, social and ecological growth would be achieved and the quality of life in them would be significantly improved. The purpose of the research is related to the study of the contribution of a sustainable organic agriculture model to achieve a multiplier effect on the rural area, as well as the linkage between organic agriculture and alternative tourism. The innovative organic agriculture model is undoubtedly one of the possibilities with a significant influence to achieve greater sustainability in the development of the rural economy in a territorial scope. The strong connection and interdependence between the economic entities in agriculture and tourism sectors is fully manifested when the interests of all interested parties in the development process of the specific territory are well combined.
Energy-saving technologies for sustainable development of the maritime transport logistics market
Authors: Remyha Y , Zaiarniuk O , Lozova T , Trushkina N , Yakushev O , Korovin Y
Published: January 2023

The paper identifies ways to solve problems of further development of the maritime logistics market, based on the challenges posed by the recovery of increasing demand for transport services, and activation of the integration of the transport system of Ukraine into the European and world transport systems. Priorities for future economic changes have been proposed in the transport sector and increasing their effectiveness through the development of a legal framework and improving the management structure of the country’s logistics system. Recognizing the magnitude of the climate change challenge and the importance of global action today, the development and implementation of energy-saving measures to address international shipping issues was analyzed. In order to succeed in further increasing the energy efficiency of the maritime sector, which is already the most energy-efficient way of mass transportation of goods, the document proposes pragmatic solutions from both a technical and a political point of view. The priorities and direction of action set out in the paper are formulated taking into account the state and place of each market segment in solving national tasks, their implementation requires significant capital investment and must be carried out taking into account the requirements of economic efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Correlation analysis of the longwall shearer’s cutting heads currents and methane concentration recorded at the longwall excavation
Authors: Dylong Artur
Published: January 2023

Research on the analysis of the correlation between cutting speed and methane emission in longwalls has so far focused on determining the daily progress of a longwall that is related to limit values of methane bearing capacity. It seems that in the case of increased cutting speed, there should be a correlation between the current of the cutting heads and the amount of methane released from the longwall due to the faster exposure of fresh coal solid and more coal on conveyors. As shown in previous publications, the coal solids and mined coal on conveyors are important or even the most important sources of methane in the longwall. Therefore, if it was possible to confirm the correlation between the cutting head current and methane release at the outlet, it would be possible to use this information in short-term forecasting algorithms. This study presents preliminary results of the research on the correlation between the cutting head current and the methane concentration at the longwall outlet.
Occupational risk assessment of mining workers at a lignite mine
Authors: Morcinek-Słota Anna
Published: January 2023

This article analyses and assesses the occupational risks of workers employed in one of the lignite mines. The hazards occurring at the KWB were discussed and the procedure for carrying out an occupational risk assessment using the PHA (Preliminary Hazard Analysis) method was described. The occupational risk assessment of the employees was carried out on the position of a foreman. Appropriate preventive measures were then selected to reduce and eliminate potential hazards and minimise occupational risks. The entire article concludes with a summary and relevant conclusions.
Design of a shaft foot as a supporting element of the Thermal Energy Storage in Adiabatic CAES concept in post-mining shaft
Authors: Kołodziej K
Published: January 2023

Development of the idea of using post-mining infrastructure for new purposes such as energy storage is currently the scope of intensive research. One of the ideas is to convert the shaft of a closed mine into adiabatic Compressed Air Energy Storage (CAES) facility. In this concept the most important design problem is the placement of the Thermal Energy Storage container in the shaft. In this article the construction of shaft foot for the purpose of Thermal Energy Storage container suspended in the mine shaft is discussed. The size and number of shaft feet using existing mining industry standards for TES installation is estimated. Depending on the type of rock mass the size of the foot and amount of concrete needed for its construction is calculated.
Incubator-independent perfusion system integrated with microfluidic device for continuous electrophysiology and microscopy readouts
Authors: Habibey Rouhollah
Published: January 2023

Advances in primary and stem cell derived neuronal cell culture techniques and abundance of available neuronal cell types have enabled in vitro neuroscience as a substantial approach to model in vivo neuronal networks. Survival of the cultured neurons is inevitably dependent on the cell culture incubators to provide stable temperature and humidity and to supply required CO2 levels for controlling the pH of culture medium. Therefore, imaging and electrophysiology recordings outside of the incubator are often limited to the short-term experimental sessions. This restricts our understanding of physiological events to the short snapshots of recorded data while the major part of temporal data is neglected. Multiple custom-made and commercially available platforms like integrated on-stage incubators have been designed to enable long-term microscopy. Nevertheless, long-term high-spatiotemporal electrophysiology recordings from developing neuronal networks needs to be addressed. In the present work an incubator-independent polydimethylsiloxane-based double-wall perfusion chamber was designed and integrated with multi-electrode arrays (MEAs) electrophysiology and compartmentalized microfluidic device to continuously record from engineered neuronal networks at sub-cellular resolution. Cell culture media underwent iterations of conditioning to the ambient CO2 and adjusting its pH to physiological ranges to retain a stable pH for weeks outside of the incubator. Double-wall perfusion chamber and an integrated air bubble trapper reduced media evaporation and osmolality drifts of the conditioned media for two weeks. Aligned microchannel-microfluidic device on MEA electrodes allowed neurite growth on top of the planar electrodes and amplified their extracellular activity. This enabled continuous sub-cellular resolution imaging and electrophysiology recordings from developing networks and their growing neurites. The on-chip versatile and self-contained system provides long-term, continuous and high spatiotemporal access to the network data and offers a robust in vitro platform with many potentials to be applied on advanced cell culture systems including organ-on-chip and organoid models.
Measurement of structured tightly focused beams with classical interferometry
Authors: Herrera Isael , Quinto-Su Pedro A
Published: January 2023

We report the first classic interferometric measurement of the full field of propagating tightly focused vector beams (NA up to 1.23) across areas of

∼

3
λ
×
3
λ
−
7
λ
×
7
λ

. This approach outperforms near field measurements of non paraxial propagating beams because it is compatible with large power imbalances across the polarization components and low light intensities. Also, intricate subwavelength structures are resolved due to the exact mapping of the transverse field components by the microscope. Prior to focusing, the structured laser light has a linear or circular polarization state and an arbitrary 2D spatial phase. The transverse polarization components are extracted directly from 12 interferograms using 4 step interferometry, while the longitudinal component is extracted from the measured transverse fields with Gauss law. Different structured propagating vectorial beams are measured to demonstrate that the method works for any field geometry. The measurements are compared to simulations with normalized cross correlations that yield mean values

⩾
0.8

, confirming good agreement.
Atomic layer deposition for nanoscale oxide semiconductor thin film transistors: review and outlook
Authors: Kim Hye-Mi , Kim Dong-Gyu , Kim Yoon-Seo , Kim Minseok , Park Jin-Seong
Published: January 2023

Since the first report of amorphous In–Ga–Zn–O based thin film transistors, interest in oxide semiconductors has grown. They offer high mobility, low off-current, low process temperature, and wide flexibility for compositions and processes. Unfortunately, depositing oxide semiconductors using conventional processes like physical vapor deposition leads to problematic issues, especially for high-resolution displays and highly integrated memory devices. Conventional approaches have limited process flexibility and poor conformality on structured surfaces. Atomic layer deposition (ALD) is an advanced technique which can provide conformal, thickness-controlled, and high-quality thin film deposition. Accordingly, studies on ALD based oxide semiconductors have dramatically increased recently. Even so, the relationships between the film properties of ALD-oxide semiconductors and the main variables associated with deposition are still poorly understood, as are many issues related to applications. In this review, to introduce ALD-oxide semiconductors, we provide: (a) a brief summary of the history and importance of ALD-based oxide semiconductors in industry, (b) a discussion of the benefits of ALD for oxide semiconductor deposition (in-situ composition control in vertical distribution/vertical structure engineering/chemical reaction and film properties/insulator and interface engineering), and (c) an explanation of the challenging issues of scaling oxide semiconductors and ALD for industrial applications. This review provides valuable perspectives for researchers who have interest in semiconductor materials and electronic device applications, and the reasons ALD is important to applications of oxide semiconductors.
Minimal nondegenerate extensions
Authors: Johnson-Freyd Theo , Reutter David
Published: January 2023

We prove that every slightly degenerate braided fusion category admits a minimal nondegenerate extension, and hence that every pseudo-unitary super modular tensor category admits a minimal modular extension. This completes the program of characterizing minimal nondegenerate extensions of braided fusion categories.

Our proof relies on the new subject of fusion

2
2

-categories. We study in detail the Drinfel’d centre

Z

(

M
o
d

-

B

)

\mathcal {Z}({_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}})

of the fusion

2
2

-category

M
o
d

-

B

{_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}}

of module categories of a braided fusion

1
1

-category

B

\mathcal {B}

. We show that minimal nondegenerate extensions of

B

\mathcal {B}

correspond to certain trivializations of

Z

(

M
o
d

-

B

)

\mathcal {Z}({_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}})

. In the slightly degenerate case, such trivializations are obstructed by a class in

H
5

(
K
(

Z

2

,
2
)
;

k

×

)

H^5(K(\mathbb {Z}_2, 2); \mathbb {k}^\times )

and we use a numerical invariant—defined by evaluating a certain two-dimensional topological field theory on a Klein bottle—to prove that this obstruction always vanishes.

Along the way, we develop techniques to explicitly compute in braided fusion

2
2

-categories which we expect will be of independent interest. In addition to the model of

Z

(

M
o
d

-

B

)

\mathcal {Z}({_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}})

in terms of braided

B

\mathcal {B}

-module categories, we develop a computationally useful model in terms of certain algebra objects in 

B

\mathcal {B}

. We construct an

S
S

-matrix pairing for any braided fusion

2
2

-category, and show that it is nondegenerate for

Z

(

M
o
d

-

B

)

\mathcal {Z}({_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}})

. As a corollary, we identify components of

Z

(

M
o
d

-

B

)

\mathcal {Z}({_{}\mathrm {Mod}\text {-}\mathcal {B}})

with blocks in the annular category of

B

\mathcal {B}

and with the homomorphisms from the Grothendieck ring of the Müger centre of

B

\mathcal {B}

to the ground field.
Interpolation operator on negative Sobolev spaces
Authors: Diening Lars , Storn Johannes , Tscherpel Tabea
Published: January 2023

We introduce a Scott–Zhang type projection operator mapping to Lagrange elements for arbitrary polynomial order. In addition to the usual properties, this operator is compatible with duals of first order Sobolev spaces. More specifically, it is stable in the corresponding negative norms and allows for optimal rates of convergence. We discuss alternative operators with similar properties. As applications of the operator we prove interpolation error estimates for parabolic problems and smoothen rough right-hand sides in a least squares finite element method.
Expanding ring-shaped cleavage furrows in multinucleate cells
Authors: Ecke Mary , Prassler Jana , Gerisch Günther
Published: January 2023

Mitosis in multinucleate cells of a Dictyostelium mutant may be coupled to central cleavage furrows that arise from areas at which dorsal and basal cell cortices are joined. By membrane fusion, holes are formed that by expanding cleave the cell into portions.
Bark production of generalist and specialist species across savannas and forests in the Cerrado
Authors: Chiminazzo Marco Antonio , Bombo Aline Bertolosi , Charles-Dominique Tristan , Fidelis Alessandra
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Bark allows species to survive fire, protecting their inner tissues and allowing new branches to resprout from aerial buds. Thus, bark production is likely to be selected with aerial bud protection in fire-prone ecosystems. By considering the coexistence of fire-prone and fire-free ecosystems, in addition to the different impacts of flames on different growth forms, in this study we tested whether: (1) species from areas with higher fire frequencies have a faster bark production; (2) bark growth rate differs between trees and shrubs; (3) generalists adjust their bark production according to their environment (fire-prone or fire-free ecosystems); and (4) fast bark production results in better aerial bud protection.

Methods

We sampled two different types of forests and savannas in the Cerrado and registered every woody individual with height between 1.5 and 3 m tall (directly exposed to the flames). For the 123 species registered, we sampled three different individuals in each vegetation type where the species occurred to assess their bark production and aerial bud protection. We then checked, for each species, their preferred habitat (savanna and forest specialists or generalists) and their predominant growth form.

Key Results

A minimal threshold of 0.13 mm per growth unit of bark production differentiated woody communities from savannas and forests. Shrubs and trees did not differ in terms of bark growth rate, despite being exposed to the flames in a different manner. Generalist species in savannas were able to produce bark above the threshold. However, when these species were in forests they produced bark below the threshold. Finally, a higher bark growth rate accounted for a better aerial bud protection.

Conclusions

Generalist species are likely to be capable of displaying plasticity in their bark production, which could be important for their success in contrasting ecosystems. The relationship between aerial bud protection and bark growth rate suggests that bark production plays an important role in protecting the dormant buds, in addition to being selected in fire-prone ecosystems.
The Effect and Implication of Social Media Platforms on Plastic Cosmetic Surgery: A Cross-sectional Study in Saudi Arabia From 2021 to 2022
Authors: AlBahlal Ahmed , Alosaimi Norah , Bawadood Manar , AlHarbi Abdulrahman , AlSubhi Fatema
Published: January 2023

Background

Aesthetic procedures are considered one of the most commonly performed procedures in the medical field. Social media (SM) reflects the electronic platforms that deliver an enormous amount of information to different users and enable them to share their content and experience with others at the simple click of a button. In our modern era, SM platforms affect different angles of our lives, from a simple detail to a significant complex aspect.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of different SM platforms on plastic cosmetic surgery in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

The authors conducted a cross-sectional study in 2021, employing a random sampling technique with a sample size of 2249 participants (ages 12 to >50). They included all plastic cosmetic interventions, and excluded reconstructive and traumatic interventions.

Results

It was reported that 56.7% were not interested in doing surgical or non-surgical cosmetic interventions, while 43.3% were interested. Those influenced by SM platforms were either interested or not interested in doing cosmetic interventions. Snapchat (Santa Monica, CA) was the most commonly influential SM platform. In addition, 35.9% answered that surgeons’ advertisements affected their decision to seek plastic surgery consultations. Photograph editing applications made 46% of participants look better and more confident to post and share their pictures.

Conclusions

Our analysis showed that those influenced by SM platforms to seek cosmetic treatment were comparatively more interested in cosmetic treatment, with Snapchat being the most influential platform. Therefore, further studies to evaluate the impact of SM platforms among plastic surgeons are encouraged.

Level of Evidence: 4
GWAS quality score for evaluating associated regions in GWAS analyses
Authors: Awasthi Swapnil , Chen Chia-Yen , Lam Max , Huang Hailiang , Ripke Stephan , Altar C Anthony
Published: January 2023

Motivation

The number of significantly associated regions reported in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) for polygenic traits typically increases with sample size. A traditional tool for quality control and identification of significant regions has been a visual inspection of how significant and correlated genetic variants cluster within a region. However, while inspecting hundreds of regions, this subjective method can misattribute significance to some loci or neglect others that are significant.

Results

The GWAS quality score (GQS) identifies suspicious regions and prevents erroneous interpretations with an objective, quantitative and automated method. The GQS assesses all measured single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are linked by inheritance to each other [linkage disequilibrium (LD)] and compares the significance of trait association of each SNP to its LD value for the reported index SNP. A GQS value of 1.0 ascribes a high level of confidence to the entire region and its underlying gene(s), while GQS values <1.0 indicate the need to closely inspect the outliers. We applied the GQS to published and non-published genome-wide summary statistics and report suspicious regions requiring secondary inspection while supporting the majority of reported regions from large-scale published meta-analyses.

Availability and implementation

The GQS code/scripts can be cloned from GitHub (https://github.com/Xswapnil/GQS/). The analyst can use whole-genome summary statistics to estimate GQS for each defined region. We also provide an online tool (http://35.227.18.38/) that gives access to the GQS. The quantitative measure of quality attributes by GQS and its visualization is an objective method that enhances the confidence of each genomic hit.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Prediction of drug side effects with transductive matrix co-completion
Authors: Liang Xujun , Fu Ying , Qu Lingzhi , Zhang Pengfei , Chen Yongheng
Published: January 2023

Motivation

Side effects of drugs could cause severe health problems and the failure of drug development. Drug–target interactions are the basis for side effect production and are important for side effect prediction. However, the information on the known targets of drugs is incomplete. Furthermore, there could be also some missing data in the existing side effect profile of drugs. As a result, new methods are needed to deal with the missing features and missing labels in the problem of side effect prediction.

Results

We propose a novel computational method based on transductive matrix co-completion and leverage the low-rank structure in the side effects and drug–target data. Positive-unlabelled learning is incorporated into the model to handle the impact of unobserved data. We also introduce graph regularization to integrate the drug chemical information for side effect prediction. We collect the data on side effects, drug targets, drug-associated proteins and drug chemical structures to train our model and test its performance for side effect prediction. The experiment results show that our method outperforms several other state-of-the-art methods under different scenarios. The case study and additional analysis illustrate that the proposed method could not only predict the side effects of drugs but also could infer the missing targets of drugs.

Availability and implementation

The data and the code for the proposed method are available at https://github.com/LiangXujun/GTMCC.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Granzyme K contributes to endothelial microvascular damage and leakage during skin inflammation
Authors: Turner Christopher T , Zeglinski Matthew R , Boivin Wendy , Zhao Hongyan , Pawluk Megan A , Richardson Katlyn C , Chandrabalan Arundhasa , Bird Phillip , Ramachandran Rithwik , Sehmi Roma , Lima Hermenio , Gauvreau Gail , Granville David J
Published: January 2023

Background

Granzyme K (GzmK) is a serine protease with minimal presence in healthy tissues while abundant in inflamed tissues. Initially thought to play an exclusive role in immune-mediated cell death, extracellular GzmK can also promote inflammation.

Objectives

To evaluate the role of GzmK in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common inflammatory skin disease.

Methods

A panel of human AD and control samples was analysed to determine if GzmK is elevated. Next, to determine a pathological role for GzmK in AD-like skin inflammation, oxazolone-induced dermatitis was induced in GzmK−/− and wild-type (WT) mice.

Results

In human lesional AD samples, there was an increase in the number of GzmK+ cells compared with healthy controls. GzmK−/− mice exhibited reduced overall disease severity characterized by reductions in scaling, erosions and erythema. Surprisingly, the presence of GzmK did not notably increase the overall pro-inflammatory response or epidermal barrier permeability in WT mice; rather, GzmK impaired angiogenesis, increased microvascular damage and microhaemorrhage. Mechanistically, GzmK contributed to vessel damage through cleavage of syndecan-1, a key structural component of the glycocalyx, which coats the luminal surface of vascular endothelia.

Conclusions

GzmK may provide a potential therapeutic target for skin conditions associated with persistent inflammation, vasculitis and pathological angiogenesis.