bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence-Based Real-Time Pineapple Quality Classification Using Acoustic Spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Ting-Wei , Bhat Showkat Ahmad , Huang Nen-Fu , Chang Chung-Ying , Chan Pin-Cheng , Elepano Arnold R.
Published: January 2022

The pineapple is an essential fruit in Taiwan. Farmers separate pineapples into two types, according to the percentages of water in the pineapples. One is the “drum sound pineapple” and the other is the “meat sound pineapple”. As there is more water in the meat sound pineapple, the meat sound pineapple more easily rots and is more challenging to store than the drum sound pineapple. Thus, farmers need to filter out the meat sound pineapple, so that they can sell pineapples overseas. The classification, based on striking the pineapple fruit with rigid objects (e.g., plastic rulers) is most commonly used by farmers due to the negligibly low costs and availability. However, it is a time-consuming job, so we propose a method to automatically classify pineapples in this work. Using embedded onboard computing processors, servo, and an ultrasonic sensor, we built a hitting machine and combined it with a conveyor to automatically separate pineapples. To classify pineapples, we proposed a method related to acoustic spectrogram spectroscopy, which uses acoustic data to generate spectrograms. In the acoustic data collection step, we used the hitting machine mentioned before and collected many groups of data with different factors; some groups also included the noise in the farm. With these differences, we tested our deep learning-based convolutional neural network (CNN) performances. The best accuracy of the developed CNN model is 0.97 for data Group V. The proposed hitting machine and the CNN model can assist in the classification of pineapple fruits with high accuracy and time efficiency.
Cloning and Functional Analysis of the Soybean GmRIQ2 Promoter
Authors: Zhang Binbin , Yin Huayi , Sun Zhihui , Song Xiaohui , Deng Jing , Zhang Qian , Li Dongmei
Published: January 2022

The RIQ gene can optimize the structure of light-harvesting complex II by regulating the degree of granum stacking, and ultimately participates in plant light stress responses. The GmRIQ2 gene contributes to plant photoprotection and may be involved in negative regulation of yield. To understand the regulatory mechanisms of GmRIQ2 expression, we isolated the GmRIQ2 promoter (PGmRIQ2) from the KenFeng 16 soybean genome. Sequence analysis showed that several cis-acting elements were involved in hormone responsiveness, seed-specific regulation, anaerobic induction and light responsiveness. PGmRIQ2 was expressed in soybean roots. GUS activity was detected in Arabidopsis thaliana rosette leaves, stems and roots, indicating that PGmRIQ2 tended to drive expression in rosette leaf vascular tissue and had spatiotemporal expression characteristics at the early growth stage. Three promoter deletion fragments of 450 bp, 284 bp and 194 bp were obtained by 5′ deletion. These three fragments all drove GUS gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana rosette leaves, stems and roots. GUS gene expression decreased with deletion fragment truncation. In addition, the PGmRIQ2 auxin (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) response elements were located at base pairs −1661~−450, −450~−284 and −284~−194, respectively, and the promoter was induced by IAA, ABA, MeJA and light.
Investigating the Responses of Microbial Communities to Banana Fusarium Wilt in Suppressive and Conducive Soils Based on Soil Particle-Size Differentiation
Authors: Wang Quanzhi , Zhou Limin , Jin Han , Cong Bingcheng , Yang Hua , Wang Shimei
Published: January 2022

The microbiota plays a primary role in inhibiting plant pathogens in the soils. However, the correlation between soil particles and local microbial communities has not been fully confirmed. In this study, we contrasted the different assemblages of microbial communities between suppressive and conducive soils via the differentiation of soil particle-size fractions (PSFs). We further extracted the direct and indirect interactive associations among the soil biotic and abiotic factors by using samples from two continuous banana cropping systems. Notable differences were shown in PSF composition, biological traits (microbial communities and enzyme patterns) and physiochemical parameters between suppressive and conducive soils among the different soil fractions. For example, compared with conducive soils, suppressive soils have higher nutrient contents, fungal abundance and diversity and enzyme activities, and the extent of these differences was explored for fractions of different sizes. Moreover, the microbial taxonomic composition strongly varied between disease-suppressive and disease-conducive soils. For instance, there were significant differences in the relative abundance among key microbiology communities, such as Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Ascomycota, especially for antagonistic microorganisms (i.e., Streptomyces, Pseudomonas, Trichoderma, etc.) across various soil fractions. In addition, structural equation modeling (SEM) showed that the complex associations among soil PSFs, physiochemical parameters and microbial communities were mediated by multiple pathways, which then drive the soil enzyme activities and may further influence the suppressiveness of the soil. These results demonstrate that the resident microbial communities in specific soil particles may play a crucial role in the development of soil suppressiveness against banana Fusarium wilt disease.
Multipurpose Agricultural Reuse of Microalgae Biomasses Employed for the Treatment of Urban Wastewater
Authors: La Bella Emanuele , Baglieri Andrea , Fragalà Ferdinando , Puglisi Ivana
Published: January 2022

The pollution of water caused by the excessive presence of organic and inorganic compounds, such as nitrates, phosphates, heavy metals, antibiotics, agrochemicals, etc., is one of the major environmental problems in many countries. Various approaches to remediate wastewater are available, and this review mainly provides the state of the art about the possible adoption of microalgae-based treatments (phycoremediation), which may represent a good alternative to conventional purification methods. Because of its composition, wastewater can provide several nutritional compounds (e.g., carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus), which represent the essential nutrients for microalgae growth. Microalgae are also attracting the interest of worldwide researchers due to their multipurpose applications; in particular, microalgae cells can represent a useful feedstock for various sectors, among these, the agricultural sector. This review proposes a detailed description of the possible application of microalgae in the process of remediation of wastewaters of different sources, highlighting their possible advantages. Moreover, the review aims to report the application of the microalgae biomasses and their extracts in agriculture, as microalgae-based products can represent a valid alternative to traditional agrochemicals, offering sustainable solutions to improve agricultural technologies. Therefore, since the recently developed wastewater depuration technology based on phycoremediation may directly provide valuable microalgae biomasses, it can be used as a powerful starting means to produce agricultural products able to improve yield and quality of crops (biostimulants, biofertilizers), as well as induce pest and disease resistance (biopesticides).
Polyphasic Characterization of Acidovorax citrulli Strains Originating from Serbia
Authors: Zlatković Nevena , Gašić Katarina , Kuzmanović Nemanja , Prokić Anđelka , Ivanović Milan , Živković Svetlana , Obradović Aleksa
Published: January 2022

Acidovorax citrulli, the causal agent of bacterial fruit blotch (BFB), is an economically important pathogen of watermelon and related plant species worldwide. In the period 2014–2018, several outbreaks of BFB were observed in major watermelon production regions in Serbia. A total of 43 strains, isolated from symptomatic watermelon tissue, were analyzed by biochemical, pathogenic and molecular tests. Based on the phenotypic characteristics, PCR assay, and 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, all strains were identified as A. citrulli. A multilocus sequence analysis of the four housekeeping (adk, gyrB, pilT and gltA) and three virulence genes (Aave_1548, avrRx01 and luxR) revealed that studied A. citrulli strains represent the homogeneous population and they clustered together with group II reference strain AAC00-1. Strain affiliation to group II was confirmed by PCR based on the putative type III secretion effector gene and by duplex PCR test. High homogeneity of studied strains was also confirmed by BOX-PCR. Differences were observed for two strains in their pathogenicity as well as susceptibility to copper compounds. Moreover, six major watermelon varieties grown in Serbia showed high sensitivity to the pathogen, while cross inoculation assay revealed that the strains were able to infect other species within the Cucurbitaceae family.
Effects of Chemotherapy on Hematological Parameters and CD4+/CD8+ Ratio in Cats with Mediastinal Lymphoma and Seropositive to Feline Leukemia Virus
Authors: Jaroensong Tassanee , Piamwaree Juthaporn , Sattasathuchana Panpicha
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the COP chemotherapeutic protocol on hematological parameters, CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and the mortality of 18 client-owned FeLV-infected cats with mediastinal lymphoma. The complete blood count, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase, and CD4+/CD8+ ratio were measured four times before treating with chemotherapy in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th weeks. The white blood cell (WBC) counts at the 1st week were significantly different from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th inductions (p = 0.0075, p = <0.0001, and p = 0.0271, respectively). The neutrophils at the 1st week were significantly different from the 2nd and 3rd inductions (p = 0.0179, and p < 0.0001, respectively). The packed cell volume (PCV) at the 1st week was significantly differed from the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th induction times (p = 0.0029, p = 0.0006, and p = 0.0029, respectively. The mean corpuscular volume (MCV) at the 1st week was significantly different from the 4th week (p = 0.0145). We found that chemotherapy did not cause any significant change in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio (p-value 0.7407). The Kaplan–Meier curves showed the median survival time (MST) for the cats with a CD4+/CD8 ratio of less than 1 after the 1st week of chemotherapy was 134 days. This suggested that COP chemotherapy was a safe treatment for FeLV-infected cats with mediastinal lymphoma.
Non-Destructive Porosity Measurements of 3D Printed Polymer by Terahertz Time-Domain Spectroscopy
Authors: Naftaly Mira , Savvides Gian , Alshareef Fawwaz , Flanigan Patrick , Lui GianLuc , Florescu Marian , Mullen Ruth Ann
Published: January 2022

The porosity and inhomogeneity of 3D printed polymer samples were examined using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy, and the effects of 3D printer settings were analysed. A set of PETG samples were 3D printed by systematically varying the printer parameters, including layer thickness, nozzle diameter, filament (line) thickness, extrusion, and printing pattern. Their effective refractive indices and loss coefficients were measured and compared with those of solid PETG. Porosity was calculated from the refractive index. A diffraction feature was observed in the loss spectrum of all 3D printed samples and was used as an indication of inhomogeneity. A “sweet spot” of printer settings was found, where porosity and inhomogeneity were minimised.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Look-Ahead Anticipation for Driving on Freeways
Authors: Kamal Md Abdus Samad , Hashikura Kotaro , Hayakawa Tomohisa , Yamada Kou , Imura Jun-ichi
Published: January 2022

This paper presents Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with look-ahead anticipation, based on the model of ACC used in recent commercial vehicles, to take early decisions in driving a vehicle on the freeway. The existing ACC found in the high-end cars has limited operating range as it often fails to respond smoothly in advance behind a decelerating vehicle. Although advanced techniques, such as model predictive control (MPC), can significantly improve a vehicle’s driving performance, they are associated with high computational complexity and have limited scopes for practical implementation. The proposed look-ahead anticipatory scheme of ACC predicts the relative states of the preceding vehicle using a conditional persistence prediction technique in an adaptive short horizon. With negligible computation cost, it determines the control input using parametric functions prudently for improving driving performance. The proposed scheme is evaluated on multiple vehicles in typical traffic scenarios to examine individual driving behavior and the stability of a vehicle string. Finally, we investigate the influences of a small part of vehicles with the proposed ACC on overall traffic using the AIMSUN traffic simulator and compare performances of overall traffic.
Switchable Chiral Metasurface for Terahertz Anomalous Reflection Based on Phase Change Material
Authors: Chen Jiajia , Chen Xieyu , Tian Zhen
Published: January 2022

A switchable chiral metasurface based on a phase change material Ge2Sb2Te5, which can switch between a right-handed circularly polarized mirror and a left-handed circularly polarized mirror, is theoretically discussed. When the conductivity of Ge2Sb2Te5 σ is 0 S/m, the metasurface will reflect incident right-handed circularly polarized light and absorb incident left-handed circularly polarized light at 0.76 THz. As σ is set to 3 × 105 S/m, the response of the metasurface to circularly polarized light will be reversed. That is, it reflects the incident left-handed circularly polarized light and absorbs the incident right-handed circularly polarized light at 0.66 THz. The circular dichroism is from 76% to −64%. Then, we also study the performance of the mirror structure of the initial metasurface. By simulating the reflected spectra with different conductivities and the surface current distribution, the reason for the switchable function is clear. Moreover, the switchable chiral metasurface can be applied in spin-selective beam deflectors, which is proven by simulation. This work provides a new strategy for the development of tunable chiral devices.
Diagnosis Efficacy of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Endodontics—A Systematic Review of High-Level-Evidence Studies
Authors: Rosen Eyal , Goldberger Tomer , Beitlitum Ilan , Littner Dan , Tsesis Igor
Published: January 2022

Introduction: The integration of clinical inspection and diagnostic imaging forms the basis for endodontic diagnosis, decision making, treatment planning, and outcome assessments. In recent years, CBCT imaging has become a common diagnostic tool in endodontics. CBCT should only be used to ensure that the benefits to the patient exceed the risks. As such, our aim in this study was to evaluate the high level diagnostic efficacy studies and their risk of bias. Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted to identify studies evaluating the use of CBCT imaging in endodontics. The following databases were searched: Medline (PubMed), Scopus, and Cochrane Central. The identified studies were subjected to rigorous inclusion criteria. Studies considered as having a high efficacy level were then subjected to a risk of bias assessment using the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Diagnostic Test Accuracy. Results: Initially, 1568 articles were identified for possible inclusion in the review. Following title and abstract assessment, duplicate removal, and a full-text evaluation, 22 studies were included. Of those studies, 2 had a low risk of bias and 20 had a high risk of bias. Six studies investigated non-surgical treatment, eight investigated surgical treatment, two investigated both non-surgical and surgical treatment, and six studies investigated diagnostic thinking or decision making. Conclusion: The evidence for the influence of CBCT on decision making and treatment outcomes in endodontics is predominantly based on studies with a high risk of bias.
Molecular Dynamics Study on the Crystallization Process of Cubic Cu–Au Alloy
Authors: Quoc Tuan Tran , Long Van Cao , Ţălu Ştefan , Nguyen Trong Dung
Published: January 2022

In this study, molecular dynamics simulations have been used to study the influencing factors, such as the time of each heating step, temperature, and annealing time, on the structure and crystallization process of Cu–Au alloy. The results show that when the temperature increased, the crystallization process decreased, and the structure gradually turns to the liquid state, and vice versa. When increasing the time of each heating step and the annealing time, the crystallization process increased, then increased the most at the glass temperature, Tg = 550 K. During the phase transition, link length (r), total energy (Etot), size (l), number of FCC, HCP, and Amor structural units have a significant change. The obtained results of Cu-Au alloy can serve as a basis for future experimental studies.
Emissions of H2S from Hog Finisher Farm Anaerobic Manure Treatment Lagoons: Physical, Chemical and Biological Influence
Authors: Grant Richard H. , Boehm Matthew T.
Published: January 2022

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from hog operations contributes to noxious odors in the surrounding environment and can be life-threatening. There is, however, limited understanding of what influences H2S emissions from these farms. Emissions of H2S were measured periodically over the course of two years at hog finisher farms in humid mesothermal (North Carolina, NC, USA) and semi-arid (Oklahoma, OK, USA) climates. Emissions were determined using an inverse dispersion backward Lagrangian stochastic model in conjunction with line-sampled H2S concentrations and measured turbulence. Daily emissions at the two lagoons were characterized by low emissions on most days with occasional days of high emissions. Mean annual area-specific emissions were much lower for the NC lagoon (1.32 µg H2S m−2 s−1 ± 0.07 µg H2S m−2 s−1) than the OK lagoon (6.88 µg H2S m−2 s−1 ± 0.13 µg H2S m−2 s−1). Mean annual hog-specific emissions for the NC lagoon were 0.75 g H2S hd−1 d−1 while those for the OK lagoon were 1.92 g H2S hd−1 d−1. Emissions tended to be higher during the afternoon, likely due to higher mean winds. Daily H2S emissions from both lagoons were greatest during the first half of the year and decreased as the year progressed and a reddish color (indicating high populations of purple sulfur bacteria (PSB)) appeared in the lagoon. The generally low emissions at the NC lagoon and higher emissions at the OK lagoon were likely a result of the influence of wind on mixing the lagoon and not the presence of PSB.
Targeting Ocular Drug Delivery: An Examination of Local Anatomy and Current Approaches
Authors: Dosmar Emily , Walsh Julia , Doyel Michael , Bussett Katlynn , Oladipupo Adekite , Amer Sabri , Goebel Katherine
Published: January 2022

Ocular drug delivery remains the focus of much modern research. Primary routes of administration include the surface, the intravitreal space, the subretinal space, and the subconjunctival space, each with its own series of unique challenges, limitations, and advantages. Each of these approaches requires careful consideration of the local anatomy, physical barriers, and key cells as well as the interface between the anatomy and the drug or drug system being delivered. While least invasive, the topical route poses a challenge with the many physical barriers that prevent drug penetration into the eye; while injection into the intravitreal, subretinal, and subconjunctival spaces are direct and targeted but limited due to the many internal clearance mechanisms and potential for damage to the eye. Polymeric-based, sustained-release drug delivery systems have been identified as a potential solution to many of these challenges; however, the design and successful implementation of a sustained-release system that is well-tolerated, bioactive, biocompatible, and degradable remains, in many cases, only in the early stages. The drugs and biomaterials in question also require special attention as small chemical changes could result in vastly different outcomes. This paper explores the anatomy and key cells of these four primary drug delivery routes as well as the interface between drug and drug delivery systems and the anatomy, reviewing the recent developments and current state of research in each area. Finally, this paper also examines the frequently used drugs and biomaterials found in ocular drug delivery and summarizes the primary interactions observed.
Field-Portable Leukocyte Classification Device Based on Lens-Free Shadow Imaging Technique
Authors: Seo Dongmin , Han Euijin , Kumar Samir , Jeon Eekhyoung , Nam Myung-Hyun , Jun Hyun Sik , Seo Sungkyu
Published: January 2022

The complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most important clinical steps in clinical diagnosis. The instruments used for CBC are usually expensive and bulky and require well-trained operators. Therefore, it is difficult for medical institutions below the tertiary level to provide these instruments, especially in underprivileged countries. Several reported on-chip blood cell tests are still in their infancy and do not deviate from conventional microscopic or impedance measurement methods. In this study, we (i) combined magnetically activated cell sorting and the differential density method to develop a method to selectively isolate three types of leukocytes from blood and obtain samples with high purity and concentration for portable leukocyte classification using the lens-free shadow imaging technique (LSIT), and (ii) established several shadow parameters to identify the type of leukocytes in a complete leukocyte shadow image by shadow image analysis. The purity of the separated leukocytes was confirmed by flow cytometry. Several shadow parameters such as the “order ratio” and “minimum ratio” were developed to classify the three types of leukocytes. A shadow image library corresponding to each type of leukocyte was created from the tested samples. Compared with clinical reference data, a correlation index of 0.98 was obtained with an average error of 6% and a confidence level of 95%. This technique offers great potential for biological, pharmaceutical, environmental, and clinical applications, especially where point-of-care detection of rare cells is required.
Construction Theory for a Building Intelligent Operation and Maintenance System Based on Digital Twins and Machine Learning
Authors: Zhao Yuhong , Wang Naiqiang , Liu Zhansheng , Mu Enyi
Published: January 2022

The operation and maintenance (O&M) of buildings plays an important role in ensuring that the buildings work normally, as well as reducing the damage caused by functional errors. There are obvious problems in the traditional O&M modality, and an effective way to solve them is to make the model smarter. In this paper, a digital twin framework for building operation is proposed, which consists of two key components: a digital twin O&M model and a machine learning algorithm. The process of establishing the digital twin model is introduced in detail, and the method is explained according to the structure, equipment, and energy consumption characteristics of the model. A mechanism of fusing the digital twin and machine learning algorithm is proposed and the prediction process based on an artificial neural network (ANN) is shown. Finally, based on a systematic summary of the modeling process and fusion mechanism, the development path and overall structure of the intelligent O&M system utilizing digital twins is proposed.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Electrochemical Properties of an Isopolyoxovanadate Compound Modified Transition-Metal Complex Based on [V4O12]4−
Authors: Wang Yongxiu , Zhang Bingjie , Guo Huili , Fan Yanhua , Li Haiyan , Pang Jingyu , Dang Dongbin , Bai Yan
Published: January 2022

A new isopolyoxovanadate compound [Zn(phen)3]2·(V4O12)·phen·20H2O (phen = 1,10-phenathroline) (1) has been synthesized in aqueous solution and characterized using IR and UV/Vis spectroscopy, elemental analysis, thermal gravimetric analysis, powder, single-crystal X-ray diffractions, and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The molecular structure of 1 exists as two kinds of [V4O12]4− polyoxoanions: distorted chair-like and coplanar conformations, two independent [Zn(phen)3]2+ units and free phen. In the solid state, compound 1 forms a stable three-dimensional supramolecular structure through electrostatic interactions, π–π stacking interactions and multiform hydrogen bonds. The electrocatalytic activity and determination of DA of compound 1 have been studied by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry, respectively.
Insight into the Photocatalytic Activity of Cobalt-Based Metal–Organic Frameworks and Their Composites
Authors: Ejsmont Aleksander , Jankowska Agata , Goscianska Joanna
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, materials with great potential for environmental protection are being sought. Metal–organic frameworks, in particular those with cobalt species as active sites, have drawn considerable interest due to their excellent properties. This review focuses on describing cobalt-based MOFs in the context of light-triggered processes, including dye degradation, water oxidation and splitting, carbon dioxide reduction, in addition to the oxidation of organic compounds. With the use of Co-based MOFs (e.g., ZIF-67, Co-MOF-74) as photocatalysts in these reactions, even over 90% degradation efficiencies of various dyes (e.g., methylene blue) can be achieved. Co-based MOFs also show high TOF/TON values in water splitting processes and CO2-to-CO conversion. Additionally, the majority of alcohols may be converted to aldehydes with efficiencies exceeding 90% and high selectivity. Since Co-based MOFs are effective photocatalysts, they can be applied in the elimination of toxic contaminants that endanger the environment.
Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells in Solid Tumors
Authors: Ma Tianmiao , Renz Bernhard W. , Ilmer Matthias , Koch Dominik , Yang Yuhui , Werner Jens , Bazhin Alexandr V.
Published: January 2022

Myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) are one of the main suppressive cell population of the immune system. They play a pivotal role in the establishment of the tumor microenvironment (TME). In the context of cancers or other pathological conditions, MDSCs can differentiate, expand, and migrate in large quantities during circulation, inhibiting the cytotoxic functions of T cells and NK cells. This process is regulated by ROS, iNOS/NO, arginase-1, and multiple soluble cytokines. The definition of MDSCs and their phenotypes in humans are not as well represented as in other organisms such as mice, owing to the absence of the cognate molecule. However, a comprehensive understanding of the differences between different species and subsets will be beneficial for clarifying the immunosuppressive properties and potential clinical values of these cells during tumor progression. Recently, experimental evidence and clinical investigations have demonstrated that MDSCs have a close relationship with poor prognosis and drug resistance, which is considered to be a leading marker for practical applications and therapeutic methods. In this review, we summarize the remarkable position of MDSCs in solid tumors, explain their classifications in different models, and introduce new treatment approaches to target MDSCs to better understand the advancement of new approaches to cancer treatment.
Key Points of Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) for Wastewater, Organic Pollutants and Pharmaceutical Waste Treatment: A Mini Review
Authors: Pandis Pavlos K. , Kalogirou Charalampia , Kanellou Eirini , Vaitsis Christos , Savvidou Maria G. , Sourkouni Georgia , Zorpas Antonis A. , Argirusis Christos
Published: January 2022

Advanced oxidation procedures (AOPs) refer to a variety of technical procedures that produce OH radicals to sufficiently oxidize wastewater, organic pollutant streams, and toxic effluents from industrial, hospital, pharmaceutical and municipal wastes. Through the implementation of such procedures, the (post) treatment of such waste effluents leads to products that are more susceptible to bioremediation, are less toxic and possess less pollutant load. The basic mechanism produces free OH radicals and other reactive species such as superoxide anions, hydrogen peroxide, etc. A basic classification of AOPs is presented in this short review, analyzing the processes of UV/H2O2, Fenton and photo-Fenton, ozone-based (O3) processes, photocatalysis and sonolysis from chemical and equipment points of view to clarify the nature of the reactive species in each AOP and their advantages. Finally, combined AOP implementations are favored through the literature as an efficient solution in addressing the issue of global environmental waste management.
Unravelling Precipitation Trends in Greece since 1950s Using ERA5 Climate Reanalysis Data
Authors: Varlas George , Stefanidis Konstantinos , Papaioannou George , Panagopoulos Yiannis , Pytharoulis Ioannis , Katsafados Petros , Papadopoulos Anastasios , Dimitriou Elias
Published: January 2022

Precipitation is one of the most variable climatic parameters, as it is determined by many physical processes. The spatiotemporal characteristics of precipitation have been significantly affected by climate change during the past decades. Analysis of precipitation trends is challenging, especially in regions such as Greece, which is characterized by complex topography and includes several ungauged areas. With this study, we aim to shed new light on the climatic characteristics and inter-annual trends of precipitation over Greece. For this purpose, we used ERA5 monthly precipitation data from 1950 to 2020 to estimate annual Theil–Sen trends and Mann–Kendall significance over Greece and surrounding areas. Additionally, in order to analyze and model the nonlinear relationships of monthly precipitation time series, we used generalized additive models (GAMs). The results indicated significant declining inter-annual trends of areal precipitation over the study area. Declining trends were more pronounced in winter over western and eastern Greece, but trends in spring, summer and autumn were mostly not significant. GAMs showcased that the trends were generally characterized by nonlinearity and precipitation over the study area presented high inter-decadal variability. Combining the results, we concluded that precipitation did not linearly change during the past 7 decades, but it first increased from the 1950s to the late 1960s, consequently decreased until the early 1990s and, afterwards, presented an increase until 2020 with a smaller rate than the 1950–1960s.
Multi-Response Optimization of Surface Grinding Process Parameters of AISI 4140 Alloy Steel Using Response Surface Methodology and Desirability Function under Dry and Wet Conditions
Authors: Roy Rakesh , Ghosh Sourav Kumar , Kaisar Tanvir Ibna , Ahmed Tazim , Hossain Shakhawat , Aslam Muhammad , Kaseem Mosab , Rahman Md Mahfuzur
Published: January 2022

The effect of four controllable input process parameters of AISI 4140 steel, cross-feed, workpiece velocity, wheel velocity, and the depth of cut were experimentally investigated under dry and wet conditions. Three responses, contact temperature, material removal rate (MRR), and machining cost during surface grinding of AISI 4140 steel, were considered. The process was optimized using a recently developed combined methodology based on response surface methodology (RSM) and desirability functional approach (DFA). RSM generated the models of the responses for prediction while DFA solved these multi-response optimization problems. The DFA approach employed an objective function known as the desirability function, which converts an estimated response into a scale-free value known as desirability. The optimum parameter was attained at the maximum overall desirability. An analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to confirm the model adequacy. From the results of the study, for equal weights of responses, the corresponding optimal values of the input parameters cross-feed, workpiece velocity, the wheel or cutting velocity and the depth of cut were found to be 6 mm/pass, 12 m/min, 15 m/s, and 0.095 mm respectively in wet conditions. The corresponding predicted output responses were: 134.55 °C for the temperature, and 7.366 BDT (Taka, Currency of Bangladesh) for the total cost with an overall desirability of 0.844. Confirmation testing of optimized parameters, i.e., checking the validity of optimal set of predicted responses with the real experimental run were conducted, and it was found that the experimental value for temperature and total cost were 140.854 °C and 8.36 BDT, respectively, with an overall desirability of 0.863. Errors of the predicted value from the experimental value for equal weightage scheme were 4.47% for the temperature and 7.37% for the total cost. It was also found that if the temperature was prioritized, then the wet condition dominated the overall desirability, which was expected. However, if the cost was given high weightage, dry condition achieved the highest overall desirability. This can be attributed to the cutting in the wet condition which was more expensive due to the application of cutting fluid. The proposed model was found to be new and highly flexible in the sense that there was always an option at hand to focus on a particular response if needed.
Development of Thermal Barrier Coating Systems from Al Microparticles—Part II: Characterisation of Mechanical and Thermal Transport Properties
Authors: Boissonnet Germain , Grosseau-Poussard Jean-Luc , Bonnet Gilles , Pedraza Fernando
Published: January 2022

In this study, the mechanical resistance and the thermal insulation potential of novel thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) made of a foam of hollow alumina particles are assessed through scratch testing, micro-indentation and thermal diffusivity measurements using laser-flash. The thermal diffusivity of the foam coatings ranges between 0.6 × 10−7 and 5 × 10−7 m2·s−1 and is thus comparable with the thermal insulation potential of the standard plasma-sprayed (PS) and electron beam–physical vapour-deposited (EB-PVD) TBCs made of yttria-stabilised zirconia (YSZ). The coatings annealed in more oxidative atmospheres exhibit greater mechanical resistance due to the thickening of the alumina shells and the increased sintering of the foam. However, when the oxidation is poorly tailored, the adhesion of the foam to the substrate decreases due to the presence of unwanted oxide that grows at the substrate/coating interface.
Strategies to Improve the Barrier and Mechanical Properties of Pectin Films for Food Packaging: Comparing Nanocomposites with Bilayers
Authors: Souza Victor , Mello Igor , Khalid Omer , Pires João , Rodrigues Carolina , Alves Marta , Santos Catarina , Fernando Ana , Coelhoso Isabel
Published: January 2022

Traditional food packaging systems help reduce food wastage, but they also produce environmental impacts when not properly disposed of. Bio-based polymers are a promising solution to overcome these impacts, but they have poor barrier and mechanical properties. This work evaluates two strategies to improve these properties in pectin films: the incorporation of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) or sodium montmorillonite (MMT) nanoparticles, and an additional layer of chitosan (i.e., a bilayer film). The bionanocomposites and bilayer films were characterized in terms of optical, morphological, hygroscopic, mechanical and barrier properties. The inclusion of the nanofillers in the polymer reduced the water vapor permeability and the hydrophilicity of the films without compromising their visual properties (i.e., their transparency). However, the nanoparticles did not substantially improve the mechanical properties of the bionanocomposites. Regarding the bilayer films, FTIR and contact angle studies revealed no surface and/or chemical modifications, confirming only physical coating/lamination between the two polymers. These bilayer films exhibited a dense homogenous structure, with intermediate optical and hygroscopic properties. An additional layer of chitosan did not improve the mechanical, water vapor and oxygen barrier properties of the pectin films. However, this additional layer made the material more hydrophobic, which may play an important role in the application of pectin as a food packaging material.
Penetration Failure Mechanism of Multi-Diameter Tungsten Fiber Reinforced Zr-Based Bulk Metallic Glasses Matrix Composite Rod
Authors: Du Chengxin , Fu Huameng , Zhu Zhengwang , Wang Kehong , Gao Guangfa , Zhou Feng , Xu Lizhi , Du Zhonghua
Published: January 2022

In order to increase the penetration ability of tungsten fiber-reinforced Zr-based bulk metallic glasses matrix composite rod, two multi-diameter tungsten fiber-reinforced Zr-based bulk metallic glasses matrix composites (MD-WF/Zr-MG) are designed. In MD-WF/Zr-MG-I, the diameters of tungsten fiber (WF) increase gradually from the inside to outside, which is the opposite in MD-WF/Zr-MG-II. Penetration experiment of two kinds of MD-WF/Zr-MG rods into rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) steel target from 1470 m/s to 1630 m/s is conducted. The average penetration depth of the MD-WF/Zr-MG-II rod is higher than that of the MD-WF/Zr-MG-I rod. Penetration failure modes of MD-WF/Zr-MG-I and MD-WF/Zr-MG-II rods are bending, backflow of WFs and shear failure respectively. The failure mode of MD-WF/Zr-MG is affected by the bend spaces and the ultimate bending diameters of WFs. If the bend spaces of all WFs are equal or larger than their ultimate bending diameters, the penetration failure mode is the bending and backflow of WFs, oppositely the penetration failure mode is the shear failure. The MD-WF/Zr-MG rod with shear failure exhibits high penetration ability because of low penetration resistance and little residual material in the crater. When designing MD-WF/Zr-MG, bend spaces of a part of WFs should be smaller than their ultimate bending diameter to cause shear failure.
Study on Treatment of Low Concentration Oily Wastewater Using Alumina Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Chen Junliang , Lv Qingxin , Meng Qingmei , Liu Xinpeng , Xiao Xiaolong , Li Xiao , Liu Yiyi , Zhang Xue , Gao Peiling
Published: January 2022

In this study, alumina ceramic plate microfiltration membranes (ACMs) were used for the treatment of oily wastewater with different concentrations. The permeate oil concentration of the system was basically less than 5 mg·L−1, and the oil rejection rate was up to 97.6%. The effects of raw oil concentration on permeation flux and oil rejection rate of oily wastewater were studied. The results showed that with the increase of raw oil concentration, the oil rejection rate increased slightly due to the existence of oil film on the surface of filtered ACMs. Moreover, the existence of oil film had little effect on the flux change of ceramic membranes. The results showed that the permeability of ACMs mainly depended on their own oleophobic properties. In this system, physical cleaning technology is used to remove oil droplets and particles blocked in membrane pores. The results showed that physical cleaning could significantly recover the permeation flux as well as improve the oil rejection rate. On this basis, a system is proposed as a potential technique for oily wastewater treatment.
The Correspondence Theory and Its Application to NiTi Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Cayron Cyril
Published: January 2022

Martensite crystallography is usually described by the phenomenological theory of martensite crystallography (PTMC). This theory relies on stretch matrices and compatibility equations, but it does not give a global view on the structures of variants, and it masks the relative roles of the symmetries and metrics. Here, we propose an alternative theory called correspondence theory (CT) based on correspondences and symmetries. The compatibility twins between the martensite variants are inherited by correspondence from the symmetry elements of austenite. We show that, for the B2 to B19′ transformation, there is a one-to-one relation between the specific misorientations and the specific inter-correspondences between the variants. For each type of misorientation, the twin of its junction plane can be predicted without calculating the stretch matrices, as in PTMC. The rational elements of the twins do not depend on the metrics; all the transformation twins are thus “generic”. We also introduce the concept of a weak plane that permits to explain the junction planes for polar pairs of variants for which the PTMC compatibility equations cannot be solved. The predictions are validated by comparison with experimental Transmission Kikuchi Diffraction (TKD) maps.
AI Denoising Significantly Improves Image Quality in Whole-Body Low-Dose Computed Tomography Staging
Authors: Brendlin Andreas S. , Plajer David , Chaika Maryanna , Wrazidlo Robin , Estler Arne , Tsiflikas Ilias , Artzner Christoph P. , Afat Saif , Bongers Malte N.
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: To evaluate the effects of an AI-based denoising post-processing software solution in low-dose whole-body computer tomography (WBCT) stagings; (2) Methods: From 1 January 2019 to 1 January 2021, we retrospectively included biometrically matching melanoma patients with clinically indicated WBCT staging from two scanners. The scans were reconstructed using weighted filtered back-projection (wFBP) and Advanced Modeled Iterative Reconstruction strength 2 (ADMIRE 2) at 100% and simulated 50%, 40%, and 30% radiation doses. Each dataset was post-processed using a novel denoising software solution. Five blinded radiologists independently scored subjective image quality twice with 6 weeks between readings. Inter-rater agreement and intra-rater reliability were determined with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). An adequately corrected mixed-effects analysis was used to compare objective and subjective image quality. Multiple linear regression measured the contribution of “Radiation Dose”, “Scanner”, “Mode”, “Rater”, and “Timepoint” to image quality. Consistent regions of interest (ROI) measured noise for objective image quality; (3) Results: With good–excellent inter-rater agreement and intra-rater reliability (Timepoint 1: ICC ≥ 0.82, 95% CI 0.74–0.88; Timepoint 2: ICC ≥ 0.86, 95% CI 0.80–0.91; Timepoint 1 vs. 2: ICC ≥ 0.84, 95% CI 0.78–0.90; all p ≤ 0.001), subjective image quality deteriorated significantly below 100% for wFBP and ADMIRE 2 but remained good–excellent for the post-processed images, regardless of input (p ≤ 0.002). In regression analysis, significant increases in subjective image quality were only observed for higher radiation doses (≥0.78, 95%CI 0.63–0.93; p < 0.001), as well as for the post-processed images (≥2.88, 95%CI 2.72–3.03, p < 0.001). All post-processed images had significantly lower image noise than their standard counterparts (p < 0.001), with no differences between the post-processed images themselves. (4) Conclusions: The investigated AI post-processing software solution produces diagnostic images as low as 30% of the initial radiation dose (3.13 ± 0.75 mSv), regardless of scanner type or reconstruction method. Therefore, it might help limit patient radiation exposure, especially in the setting of repeated whole-body staging examinations.
Dual-Energy CT Pulmonary Angiography for the Assessment of Surgical Accessibility in Patients with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Eberhard Matthias , McInnis Micheal , de Perrot Marc , Lichtblau Mona , Ulrich Silvia , Inci Ilhan , Opitz Isabelle , Frauenfelder Thomas
Published: January 2022

We assessed the value of dual-energy CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) for classification of the level of disease in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) patients compared to the surgical Jamieson classification and prediction of hemodynamic changes after pulmonary endarterectomy. Forty-three CTEPH patients (mean age, 57 ± 16 years; 18 females) undergoing CTPA prior to surgery were retrospectively included. “Proximal” and “distal disease” were defined as L1 and 2a (main and lobar pulmonary artery [PA]) and L2b-4 (lower lobe basal trunk to subsegmental PA), respectively. Three radiologists had a moderate interobserver agreement for the radiological classification of disease (k = 0.55). Sensitivity was 92–100% and specificity was 24–53% to predict proximal disease according to the Jamieson classification. A median of 9 segments/patient had CTPA perfusion defects (range, 2–18 segments). L1 disease had a greater decrease in the mean pulmonary artery pressure (p = 0.029) and pulmonary vascular resistance (p = 0.011) after surgery compared to patients with L2a to L3 disease. The extent of perfusion defects was not associated with the level of disease or hemodynamic changes after surgery (p > 0.05 for all). CTPA is highly sensitive for predicting the level of disease in CTEPH patients with a moderate interobserver agreement. The radiological level of disease is associated with hemodynamic improvement after surgery.
Exact and Numerical Solution of the Fractional Sturm–Liouville Problem with Neumann Boundary Conditions
Authors: Klimek Malgorzata , Ciesielski Mariusz , Blaszczyk Tomasz
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we study the fractional Sturm–Liouville problem with homogeneous Neumann boundary conditions. We transform the differential problem to an equivalent integral one on a suitable function space. Next, we discretize the integral fractional Sturm–Liouville problem and discuss the orthogonality of eigenvectors. Finally, we present the numerical results for the considered problem obtained by utilizing the midpoint rectangular rule.
Enhancement of Cooperation and Reentrant Phase of Prisoner’s Dilemma Game on Signed Networks
Authors: Choi Jae Han , Lee Sungmin , Lee Jae Woo
Published: January 2022

We studied the prisoner’s dilemma game as applied to signed networks. In signed networks, there are two types of links: positive and negative. To establish a payoff matrix between players connected with a negative link, we multiplied the payoff matrix between players connected with a positive link by −1. To investigate the effect of negative links on cooperating behavior, we performed simulations for different negative link densities. When the negative link density is low, the density of the cooperator becomes zero because there is an increasing temptation payoff, b. Here, parameter b is the payoff received by the defector from playing the game with a cooperator. Conversely, when the negative link density is high, the cooperator density becomes almost 1 as b increases. This is because players with a negative link will suffer more payoff damage if they do not cooperate with each other. The negative link forces players to cooperate, so cooperating behavior is enhanced.