bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lateral Bearing Capacity of a Hybrid Monopile: Combined Effects of Wing Configuration and Local Scour
Authors: Li Biao , Wang Yifa , Qi Wengang , Wang Shunyi , Gao Fuping
Published: November 2022

Pile foundations for offshore wind turbines are subjected to large lateral loads. By mounting wings on the perimeter of regular monopiles, winged monopiles have shown better performance in resisting deformation under horizontal loading. However, the hazardous effect of local scour on the lateral bearing capacity of winged monopiles installed in the sandy seabed has not been systematically evaluated. In this study, a modified Mohr–Coulomb model considering the pre-peak hardening and post-peak softening behavior of dense sand is adopted to simulate laterally loaded winged monopiles in the locally scoured sandy seabed, using three-dimensional finite element analyses. The effect of local scour depth on the lateral capacity of winged monopiles is examined and explained by soil failure mechanisms. The enhancement of lateral capacity with wings attached to the monopile is demonstrated to be more effective than extending pile embedment length. The effects of the relative density of sand and the wing load orientation are also discussed. Finally, the wing efficiency is evaluated to determine the optimal configuration of winged monopiles.
Microalgae Harvesting after Tertiary Wastewater Treatment with White-Rot Fungi
Authors: Civzele Anna , Mezule Linda
Published: November 2022

Tertiary wastewater treatment with microalgae incorporates environmental sustainability with future technologies and high exploitation costs. Despite the apparent ecological benefits of microalgae-assisted wastewater treatment/biomass-based resource production, technological improvements are still essential to compete with other technologies. Bio-flocculation instead of mechanical harvesting has been demonstrated as an alternative cost-effective approach. So far, mostly filamentous fungi of genus Aspergillus have been used for this purpose. Within this study, we demonstrate a novel approach of using white-rot fungi, with especially high potential of algae—Irpex lacteus complex that demonstrates efficiency with various microalgae species at a broad range of temperatures (5–20 °C) and various pH levels. Harvesting of microalgae from primary and secondary wastewater resulted in 73–93% removal efficiencies within the first 24 h and up to 95% after 48 h. The apparent reuse potential of the algae—I. lacteus pellets further complements the reduced operating costs and environmental sustainability of bio-flocculation technology.
The Lipid Profile of the Endomyces magnusii Yeast upon the Assimilation of the Substrates of Different Types and upon Calorie Restriction
Authors: Deryabina Yulia I. , Kokoreva Anastasia S. , Klein Olga I. , Gessler Natalya N. , Isakova Elena P.
Published: November 2022

The study analyzes the dynamics in the lipid profile of the Endomyces magnusii yeast during the long-lasting cultivation using the substrates of “enzymatic” or “oxidative” type. Moreover, we studied its changes upon calorie restriction (CR) (0.5% glucose) and glucose depletion (0.2% glucose). Di-(DAGs), triacylglycerides (TAGs) and free fatty acids (FFAs) dominate in the storage lipid fractions. The TAG level was high in all the cultures tested and reached 80% of the total lipid amount. While being cultured on 2% substrates, the level of storage lipids decreased at the four-week stage, whereas upon CR their initially low amount doubled. Phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), sterols (St) (up to 62% of total lipids), phosphatidylcholines (PC), and phosphatidic acids (PA) (more than 40% of total lipids) were dominating in the membrane lipids of E magnusii. Upon CR at the late stationary growth stages (3–4 weeks), the total level of membrane lipid was two-fold higher than those on glycerol and 2% glucose. The palmitic acid C16:0 (from 10 to 23%), the palmitoleic acid C16:1 (from 4.3 to 15.9%), the oleic acid C18:1 (from 23.4 to 59.2%), and the linoleic acid C18:2 (from 10.8 to 49.2%) were the dominant fatty acids (FAs) of phospholipids. Upon glucose depletion (0.2% glucose), the total amount of storage and membrane lipids in the cells was comparable to that in the cells both on 2% and 0.5% glucose. High levels of PC and sphingolipids (SL) at the late stationary growth stages and an increased PA level throughout the whole experiment were typical for the membrane lipids composition upon the substrate depletion. There was shown a crucial role of St, PA, and a high share of the unsaturated FAs in the membrane phospholipids upon the adaptation of the E. magnusii yeast to the long-lasting cultivation upon the substrate restriction is shown. The autophagic processes in some fractions of the cell population provide the support of high level of lipid components at the late stages of cultivation upon substrate depletion under the CR conditions. CR is supposed to play the key role in regulating the lipid synthesis and risen resistance to oxidative stress, as well as its possible biotechnological application.
Invasive Fungal Diseases in Africa: A Critical Literature Review
Authors: Bongomin Felix , Ekeng Bassey E. , Kibone Winnie , Nsenga Lauryn , Olum Ronald , Itam-Eyo Asa , Kuate Marius Paulin Ngouanom , Pebolo Francis Pebalo , Davies Adeyinka A. , Manga Musa , Ocansey Bright , Kwizera Richard , Baluku Joseph Baruch
Published: November 2022

Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) are of huge concern in resource-limited settings, particularly in Africa, due to the unavailability of diagnostic armamentarium for IFDs, thus making definitive diagnosis challenging. IFDs have non-specific systemic manifestations overlapping with more frequent illnesses, such as tuberculosis, HIV, and HIV-related opportunistic infections and malignancies. Consequently, IFDs are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. We critically reviewed the available literature on IFDs in Africa to provide a better understanding of their epidemiology, disease burden to guide future research and interventions. Cryptococcosis is the most encountered IFD in Africa, accounting for most of the HIV-related deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. Invasive aspergillosis, though somewhat underdiagnosed and/or misdiagnosed as tuberculosis, is increasingly being reported with a similar predilection towards people living with HIV. More cases of histoplasmosis are also being reported with recent epidemiological studies, particularly from Western Africa, showing high prevalence rates amongst presumptive tuberculosis patients and patients living with HIV. The burden of pneumocystis pneumonia has reduced significantly probably due to increased uptake of anti-retroviral therapy among people living with HIV both in Africa, and globally. Mucormycosis, talaromycosis, emergomycosis, blastomycosis, and coccidiomycosis have also been reported but with very few studies from the literature. The emergence of resistance to most of the available antifungal drugs in Africa is yet of huge concern as reported in other regions. IFDs in Africa is much more common than it appears and contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality. Huge investment is needed to drive awareness and fungi related research especially in diagnostics and antifungal therapy.
Buckwheat and Cardiometabolic Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Llanaj Erand , Ahanchi Noushin Sadat , Dizdari Helga , Taneri Petek Eylul , Niehot Christa D. , Wehrli Faina , Khatami Farnaz , Raeisi-Dehkordi Hamidreza , Kastrati Lum , Bano Arjola , Glisic Marija , Muka Taulant
Published: November 2022

Buckwheat (BW) is suggested to have beneficial effects, but evidence on how it affects cardiometabolic health (CMH) is not yet established. We aimed to assess the effects of BW and/or its related bioactive compounds on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk markers in adults. Five databases were searched for eligible studies. Observational prospective studies, nonrandomized or randomized trials were considered if they assessed BW, rutin or quercetin-3-glucoside intake and CVD risk markers. We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for reporting. We selected 16 human studies based on 831 subjects with mild metabolic disturbances, such as hypercholesterolemia, diabetes and/or overweight. Eight studies, investigating primarily grain components, were included in the meta-analyses (n = 464). High study heterogeneity was present across most of our analyses. Weighted mean difference (WMD) for subjects receiving BW supplementation, compared to controls, were − 0.14 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.30; 0.02) for total cholesterol (TC), −0.03 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.22; 0.16) for LDL cholesterol, −0.14 kg (95% CI: −1.50; 1.22) for body weight, −0.04 mmol/L (95% CI: − 0.09;0.02) for HDL cholesterol, −0.02 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.15; 0.11) for triglycerides and −0.18 mmol/L (95% CI: −0.36; 0.003) for glucose. Most of the studies (66.7%) had concerns of risk of bias. Studies investigating other CVD markers were scarce and with inconsistent findings, where available. Evidence on how BW affects CMH is limited. However, the available literature indicates that BW supplementation in mild dyslipidaemia and type 2 diabetes may provide some benefit in lowering TC and glucose, albeit non-significant. Our work highlights the need for more rigorous trials, with better methodological rigor to clarify remaining uncertainties on potential effects of BW on CMH and its utility in clinical nutrition practice.
Housing Price Prediction Using Machine Learning Algorithms in COVID-19 Times
Authors: Mora-Garcia Raul-Tomas , Cespedes-Lopez Maria-Francisca , Perez-Sanchez V. Raul
Published: November 2022

Machine learning algorithms are being used for multiple real-life applications and in research. As a consequence of digital technology, large structured and georeferenced datasets are now more widely available, facilitating the use of these algorithms to analyze and identify patterns, as well as to make predictions that help users in decision making. This research aims to identify the best machine learning algorithms to predict house prices, and to quantify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on house prices in a Spanish city. The methodology addresses the phases of data preparation, feature engineering, hyperparameter training and optimization, model evaluation and selection, and finally model interpretation. Ensemble learning algorithms based on boosting (Gradient Boosting Regressor, Extreme Gradient Boosting, and Light Gradient Boosting Machine) and bagging (random forest and extra-trees regressor) are used and compared with a linear regression model. A case study is developed with georeferenced microdata of the real estate market in Alicante (Spain), before and after the pandemic declaration derived from COVID-19, together with information from other complementary sources such as the cadastre, socio-demographic and economic indicators, and satellite images. The results show that machine learning algorithms perform better than traditional linear models because they are better adapted to the nonlinearities of complex data such as real estate market data. Algorithms based on bagging show overfitting problems (random forest and extra-trees regressor) and those based on boosting have better performance and lower overfitting. This research contributes to the literature on the Spanish real estate market by being one of the first studies to use machine learning and microdata to explore the incidence of the COVID-19 pandemic on house prices.
From Samples to Germline and Somatic Sequence Variation: A Focus on Next-Generation Sequencing in Melanoma Research
Authors: Muñoz-Barrera Adrián , Rubio-Rodríguez Luis A. , Díaz-de Usera Ana , Jáspez David , Lorenzo-Salazar José M. , González-Montelongo Rafaela , García-Olivares Víctor , Flores Carlos
Published: November 2022

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications have flourished in the last decade, permitting the identification of cancer driver genes and profoundly expanding the possibilities of genomic studies of cancer, including melanoma. Here we aimed to present a technical review across many of the methodological approaches brought by the use of NGS applications with a focus on assessing germline and somatic sequence variation. We provide cautionary notes and discuss key technical details involved in library preparation, the most common problems with the samples, and guidance to circumvent them. We also provide an overview of the sequence-based methods for cancer genomics, exposing the pros and cons of targeted sequencing vs. exome or whole-genome sequencing (WGS), the fundamentals of the most common commercial platforms, and a comparison of throughputs and key applications. Details of the steps and the main software involved in the bioinformatics processing of the sequencing results, from preprocessing to variant prioritization and filtering, are also provided in the context of the full spectrum of genetic variation (SNVs, indels, CNVs, structural variation, and gene fusions). Finally, we put the emphasis on selected bioinformatic pipelines behind (a) short-read WGS identification of small germline and somatic variants, (b) detection of gene fusions from transcriptomes, and (c) de novo assembly of genomes from long-read WGS data. Overall, we provide comprehensive guidance across the main methodological procedures involved in obtaining sequencing results for the most common short- and long-read NGS platforms, highlighting key applications in melanoma research.
Comparison of Different Isolation Methods for Plasma-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Patients with Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Zhen Ke , Wei Xiaojuan , Zhi Zelun , Zhang Shuyan , Cui Liujuan , Li Yue , Chen Xia , Yao Jing , Zhang Hongchao
Published: November 2022

Extracellular vesicles are commonly found in human body fluids and can reflect current physiological conditions of human body and act as biomarkers of disease. The quality of isolated extracellular vesicles facilitates the early diagnosis of various diseases accompanied by hyperlipidemia. Nonetheless, there are no reports on which special methods are suitable for isolating extracellular vesicles from the plasma of patients with hyperlipidemia. Thus, this study compared three different research-based extracellular vesicle isolation approaches, namely ultracentrifugation (UC), polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation, and size exclusion chromatography (SEC), and determined which of them was the most effective method. We selected blood samples from 12 patients with clinically diagnosed hyperlipidemia and isolated plasma-derived extracellular vesicles using three methods. The morphology of the isolated extracellular vesicles was observed using transmission electron microscopy, while the concentration was detected by asymmetric flow field-flow fractionation and multi-angle light scattering. Marker proteins were identified by Western blotting, and protein composition was evaluated by silver staining. Both determined the contaminations in the extracellular vesicle samples. The results showed that the three methods can be successfully used for the isolation of extracellular vesicles. The extracellular vesicles isolated by UC were larger in size, and the yield was much lower. Although the yield of extracellular vesicles isolated by PEG precipitation was greatly improved, the contamination was increased. Of the three methods, only the SEC-isolated extracellular vesicles were characterized by high yield and low contamination. Therefore, our data suggested that the SEC was a more ideal method for isolating extracellular vesicles from the plasma of patients with hyperlipidemia.
A Rising Star of the Multimarker Panel: Growth Differentiation Factor-15 Levels Are an Independent Predictor of Mortality in Acute Heart Failure Patients Admitted to an Emergency Clinical Hospital from Eastern Europe
Authors: Miftode Radu-Stefan , Constantinescu Daniela , Cianga Corina-Maria , Petris Antoniu-Octavian , Costache Irina-Iuliana , Mitu Ovidiu , Miftode Ionela-Larisa , Mitu Ivona , Timpau Amalia-Stefana , Duca Stefania-Teodora , Costache Alexandru-Dan , Cianga Petru , Serban Ionela-Lacramioara
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: Acute heart failure (HF) represents one of the most common yet extremely severe presentations in emergency services worldwide, requiring prompt diagnosis, followed by an adequate therapeutic approach, and a thorough risk stratification. Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are currently the most widely implemented biomarkers in acute HF, but due to their lack of specificity, they are mainly used as ruling-out criteria. Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a novel molecule expressing different pathophysiological pathways in HF, such as fibrosis, remodeling, and oxidative stress. It is also considered a very promising predictor of mortality and poor outcome. In this study, we aimed to investigate the GDF-15’s expression and particularities in patients with acute HF, focusing mainly on its role as a prognosis biomarker, either per se or as part of a multimarker panel. (2) Methods: This unicentric prospective study included a total of 173 subjects, divided into 2 subgroups: 120 patients presented in emergency with acute HF, while 53 were ambulatory-evaluated controls with chronic HF. At admission, all patients were evaluated according to standard clinical echocardiography and laboratory panel, including the assessment of GDF-15. (3) Results: The levels of GDF-15 were significantly higher in patients with acute HF, compared to controls [596 (305–904) vs. 216 (139–305) ng/L, p < 0.01]. GDF-15 also exhibited an adequate diagnostic performance in acute HF, expressed as an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.883 [confidence interval (CI) 95%: 0.828–0.938], similar to that of NT-proBNP (AUC: 0.976, CI 95%: 0.952–1.000), or troponin (AUC: 0.839, CI 95%: 0.733–0.944). High concentrations of GDF-15 were significantly correlated with mortality risk. In a multivariate regression model, GDF-15 was the most important predictor of a poor outcome, superior to NT-proBNP or troponin. (4) Conclusions: GDF-15 proved to be a reliable tool in the multimarker assessment of patients with acute HF. Compared to the gold standard NT-proBNP, GDF-15 presented a similar diagnostic performance, doubled by a significantly superior prognostic value, making it worth being included in a standardized multimarker panel.
N4-(2-Amino-4-fluorophenyl)-N1-(3-{2-[2-(3-{[2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)-1,3-dioxoisoindolin-4-yl]amino}propoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}propyl)terephthalamide
Authors: Abdelsalam Mohamed , Zessin Matthes , Schmidt Matthias , Schutkowski Mike , Sippl Wolfgang
Published: November 2022

The design of proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs) has become a promising technology for modifying a protein of interest (POI) through protein degradation. Herein, we describe the synthetic pathway to develop N4-(2-amino-4-fluorophenyl)-N1-(3-{2-[2-(3-{[2-(2,6-dioxo-3-piperidyl)-1,3-dioxoisoindolin-4-yl]amino}propoxy)ethoxy]ethoxy}propyl)terephthalamide, which was designed to work as a selective degrader of histone deacetylase-3 (HDAC3). The newly synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR and HRMS. The title compound was tested in vitro against human class-I HDACs isoforms and showed IC50 = 3.4 µM against HDAC3; however, it did not show degradation for the targeted HDACs.
Design and Application of a Twisted and Coiled Polymer Driven Artificial Musculoskeletal Actuation Module
Authors: Wu Chunbing , Zheng Wen , Wang Zhiyi , Yan Biao , Ma Jia , Fang Guangqiang
Published: November 2022

Twisted and coiled polymer (TCP) artificial muscles can exhibit unidirectional actuation similar to skeletal muscles. This paper presents a TCP driven artificial musculoskeletal actuation module that can be used in soft robots. This module can contract in the axis direction, and the contraction displacement and force can be controlled easily. The main body of the actuation module consists of TCP muscles and leaf springs, and the deformation of the module is actuated by the TCP muscles. A prototype was made to test the performance of the module. The design and experimental results of the module are presented. The module can provide contraction motion. Results show that the module can provide a contraction force of 0.7 N with displacement of approximately 6.8 mm at 120 °C when exposed to electrical power of 24 V. The proposed artificial musculoskeletal actuation module can potentially be applied in biomimetic robots and the aerospace field.
Dynamic Compressive and Tensile Characterisation of Igneous Rocks Using Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar and Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Wessling Albin , Kajberg Jörgen
Published: November 2022

The dynamic fracture process of rock materials is of importance for several industrial applications, such as drilling for geothermal installation. Numerical simulation can aid in increasing the understanding about rock fracture; however, it requires precise knowledge about the dynamical mechanical properties alongside information about the initiation and propagation of cracks in the material. This work covers the detailed dynamic mechanical characterisation of two rock materials—Kuru grey granite and Kuru black diorite—using a Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar complemented with high-speed imaging. The rock materials were characterised using the Brazilian disc and uniaxial compression tests. From the high-speed images, the instant of fracture initiation was estimated for both tests, and a Digital Image Correlation analysis was conducted for the Brazilian disc test. The nearly constant tensile strain in the centre was obtained by selecting a rectangular sensing region, sufficiently large to avoid complicated local strain distributions appearing between grains and at voids. With a significantly high camera frame rate of 671,000 fps, the indirect tensile strain and strain rates on the surface of the disc could be evaluated. Furthermore, the overloading effect in the Brazilian disc test is evaluated using a novel methodology consisting of high-speed images and Digital Image Correlation analysis. From this, the overloading effects were found to be 30 and 23%. The high-speed images of the compression tests indicated fracture initiation at 93 to 95% of the peak dynamic strength for granite and diorite, respectively. However, fracture initiation most likely occurred before this in a non-observed part of the sample. It is concluded that the indirect tensile strain obtained by selecting a proper size of the sensing region combined with the high temporal resolution result in a reliable estimate of crack formation and subsequent propagation.
Flexural Capacity of Concrete Beams with Basalt Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Bars and Stirrups
Authors: Krassowska Julita , Piña Ramírez Carolina
Published: November 2022

The flexural properties of six 120 × 300 × 4500 mm concrete beams reinforced with bars made from basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) basalt fibers and concrete stirrups were investigated. The beams contained different concrete compositions (with or without basalt fibers). Steel and BFRP bars were used as longitudinal and shear reinforcement. As expected, all the beams failed by the crushing of the concrete in the top compression fibers because of using BFRP bars. Beams with BFRP bars should be designed to fail by concrete crushing because it is safer than a brittle failure of the bars. The beams with composite reinforcement were characterized by the greatest number of cracks with the largest crack width. The use of basalt fibers resulted in slightly reduced cracks in beams. The most significant deflections were recorded for the beams with BFRC composite reinforcement, the smallest for FRC beams. Adding basalt fibers to the concrete resulted in slightly reduced deflection of FRC beams compared to RC beams and significantly reduced deflection compared to BFRC beams. Results showed that introducing basalt fibers to the concrete increased curvature ductility of these beams. A theoretical analysis of flexural capacity showed that the ACI standard design is more similar to experimental values (0.87). A more restrictive standard, as it turns out, is the fib Model Code (0.68).
Mechanical Characterisation of GFRP Frame and Beam-to-Column Joints Including Steel Plate Fastened Connections
Authors: Ferrara Giuseppe , Helson Olivier , Michel Laurent , Ferrier Emmanuel
Published: November 2022

The study is part of the MOOVABAT project aiming at defining innovative technological buildings with low environmental impact and characterised by the capacity to constantly adapt to the changing of their users’ needs. In this context, the mechanical performance of a fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) frame, chosen as a structural solution for the building assembly, was investigated. Specifically, the research study aims to experimentally define the moment–rotation behaviour of screw-connected joints by using steel plates. For this purpose, two different configurations, a beam-to-column joint and a whole portal frame, were tested to evaluate the strength and the stiffness of the connection. In addition, the beam-to-column element was also subjected to cyclic loads to assess the joint energy dissipation capacity. The experimental results show that the strength of the connection is higher than that required to satisfy both serviceability limit state (SLS) and ultimate limit state (ULS) loading conditions. Moreover, it also provided an accurate characterisation of the semi-rigid connection useful for designing purposes and raising the possibility of considering an optimisation of the system. All in all, with respect to mechanical aspects, the study confirms the suitability of pultrude FRP element assemblies for modular building applications and paves the way for further analysis aimed at enhancing their efficiency.
Proliferation and Morphological Assessment of Human Periodontal Ligament Fibroblast towards Bovine Pericardium Membranes: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Bianchi Serena , Bernardi Sara , Simeone Davide , Torge Diana , Macchiarelli Guido , Marchetti Enrico
Published: November 2022

Over the past decade regenerative branches of dentistry have taken on more and more importance, resulting in the development of performing scaffold materials. These should induce cell adhesion, support, and guide the tissues’ growth. Among the developed materials, we can include resorbable or non-membranes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the proliferation abilities and the attachment of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (HPLIFs) over two bovine pericardium membranes with different thicknesses, 0.2 mm and 0.4 mm, respectively. These membranes have been decellularized by the manufacturer, preserving the three-dimensional collagen’s structure. The HPLFs were cultured in standard conditions and exposed to the tested materials. XTT was performed to assess cell proliferation, while light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations assessed fibroblast morphology at different times (T1, T2, and T3). Proliferation assays have shown a statistically significant difference in growth at T1 (p < 0.05) in the cells cultured with a thicker membrane compared to the thinner one. LM analysis showed healthy fibroblasts in contact with the membranes, appearing larger and with a polygonal shape. SEM observation demonstrated thickening of the fibroblasts which continued to adhere to the membrane’s surface, with enlarged polygonal shape and developed filipodia and lamellipodia. These results showed a similar cell behavior over the two bovine pericardium membranes, demonstrating a cellular migration along and within the layers of the membrane, binding with membrane fibers by means of filopodial extensions. Knowledge of the effects of the collagen membranes derived from bovine pericardium on cellular behavior will help clinicians choose the type of scaffolds according to the required clinical situation.
Effect of Nitrogen Doping on Tribological Properties of Ta2O5 Coatings Deposited by RF Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Chao Rui , Cai Haichao , Li Hang , Xue Yujun
Published: November 2022

Ta2O5 was deposited on quartz glass and Si substrates as a protective coating. The inherent RF magnetron sputtering power of 140 W was maintained during the deposition process. During the deposition process, amounts of 5%, 10%, and 15% of N2 were injected, and the total sputtering gas (N2+Ar) flow was kept at 40 sccm. The microstructure and surface morphology of the coatings were characterized, and the friction and wear experiments of the coatings were carried out. The results show that the coatings’ surface is smooth and the main chemical compositions are Ta, O, and N. The maximum average roughness of the coatings was prepared by pure argon sputtering. It is proved that the introduction of N2 reduces the surface roughness of the coatings and increases the surface hardness and elastic modulus of the coatings. Adhesive wear and brittle fracture are the two main wear forms of coatings. The wear debris is mainly composed of columnar particles and a flake structure.
A Deep-Learning-Based Multi-Modal Sensor Fusion Approach for Detection of Equipment Faults
Authors: Kullu Omer , Cinar Eyup
Published: November 2022

Condition monitoring is a part of the predictive maintenance approach applied to detect and prevent unexpected equipment failures by monitoring machine conditions. Early detection of equipment failures in industrial systems can greatly reduce scrap and financial losses. Developed sensor data acquisition technologies allow for digitally generating and storing many types of sensor data. Data-driven computational models allow the extraction of information about the machine’s state from acquired sensor data. The outstanding generalization capabilities of deep learning models have enabled them to play a significant role as a data-driven computational fault model in equipment condition monitoring. A challenge of fault detection applications is that single-sensor data can be insufficient in performance to detect equipment anomalies. Furthermore, data in different domains can reveal more prominent features depending on the fault type, but may not always be obvious. To address this issue, this paper proposes a multi-modal sensor fusion-based deep learning model to detect equipment faults by fusing information not only from different sensors but also from different signal domains. The effectiveness of the model’s fault detection capability is shown by utilizing the most commonly encountered equipment types in the industry, such as electric motors. Two different sensor types’ raw time domain and frequency domain data are utilized. The raw data from the vibration and current sensors are transformed into time-frequency images using short-time Fourier transform (STFT). Then, time-frequency images and raw time series data were supplied to the designed deep learning model to detect failures. The results showed that the fusion of multi-modal sensor data using the proposed model can be advantageous in equipment fault detection.
Rigid-Body Guidance Synthesis of Noncircular Gear-Five-Bar Mechanisms and Its Application in a Knee Joint Rehabilitation Device
Authors: Yu Chennan , Yao Kun , Zong Yanyu , Ye Jun , Chen Jianneng
Published: November 2022

At present, the research objects of rigid-body guidance synthesis are mostly limited to pure linkages, and there is little research on the combined mechanisms of gears or cams and linkages. In order to expand the research objects of rigid-body guidance and improve the kinematic mapping theory, this paper proposes a rigid-body guidance method of noncircular gear-five-bar combined mechanisms. A noncircular gear-five-bar mechanism can be regarded as a combination of a 2R (two revolute joints) open chain, a 3R (three revolute joints) open chain and a pair of noncircular gears. Firstly, the circle point curves and circle center point curves of the 2R and 3R open chains are obtained by using kinematic mapping, and they are formed into a double crank five-bar linkage. Secondly, the B-spline curve is used to fit the rotation angle relationship of the gear pair to obtain the pitch curves of noncircular gears. Finally, aiming at correcting patients’ abnormal gait, a noncircular gear-five-bar exoskeleton knee joint rehabilitation device is designed based on four task poses. The prototype is developed and the wear test is carried out. The test results verify the correctness of the rigid-body guidance synthesis method and the effectiveness of rehabilitation training.
Asymmetric Control Limits for Weighted-Variance Mean Control Chart with Different Scale Estimators under Weibull Distributed Process
Authors: Zhou Jing Jia , Ng Kok Haur , Ng Kooi Huat , Peiris Shelton , Koh You Beng
Published: November 2022

Shewhart charts are the most commonly utilised control charts for process monitoring in industries with the assumption that the underlying distribution of the quality characteristic is normal. However, this assumption may not always hold true in practice. In this paper, the weighted-variance mean charts are developed and their population standard deviation is estimated using the three subgroup scale estimators, namely the standard deviation, median absolute deviation and standard deviation of trimmed mean for monitoring Weibull distributed data with different coefficients of skewness. This study aims to compare the out-of-control average run length of these charts with the pre-determined fixed value of the in-control ARL in terms of different scale estimators, coefficients of skewness and sample sizes via extensive simulation studies. The results indicate that as the coefficients of skewness increase, the charts tend to detect the out-of-control signal more rapidly under identical magnitude of shift. Meanwhile, as the size of the shift increases under the same coefficient of skewness, the proposed charts are able to locate the shifts quicker and the similar scenarios arise as a sample size raised from 5 to 10. A real data set from survival analysis domain which, possessing Weibull distribution, was to demonstrate the usefulness and applicability of the proposed chart in practice.
A Class of Semilinear Parabolic Problems and Analytic Semigroups
Authors: Taira Kazuaki
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: This paper is devoted to the study of a class of semilinear initial boundary value problems of parabolic type. (2) Methods: We make use of fractional powers of analytic semigroups and the interpolation theory of compact linear operators due to Lions–Peetre. (3) Results: We give a functional analytic proof of the C2 compactness of a bounded regular solution orbit for semilinear parabolic problems with Dirichlet, Neumann and Robin boundary conditions. (4) Conclusions: As an application, we study the dynamics of a population inhabiting a strongly heterogeneous environment that is modeled by a class of diffusive logistic equations with Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions.
Fixed Points on Covariant and Contravariant Maps with an Application
Authors: Ramaswamy Rajagopalan , Mani Gunaseelan , Gnanaprakasam Arul Joseph , Abdelnaby Ola A. Ashour , Stojiljković Vuk , Radojevic Slobodan , Radenović Stojan
Published: November 2022

Fixed-point results on covariant maps and contravariant maps in a C★-algebra-valued bipolar metric space are proved. Our results generalize and extend some recently obtained results in the existing literature. Our theoretical results in this paper are supported with suitable examples. We have also provided an application to find an analytical solution to the integral equation and the electrical circuit differential equation.
Existence of Hilfer Fractional Stochastic Differential Equations with Nonlocal Conditions and Delay via Almost Sectorial Operators
Authors: Sivasankar Sivajiganesan , Udhayakumar Ramalingam , Subramanian Velmurugan , AlNemer Ghada , Elshenhab Ahmed M.
Published: November 2022

In this article, we examine the existence of Hilfer fractional (HF) stochastic differential systems with nonlocal conditions and delay via almost sectorial operators. The major methods depend on the semigroup of operators method and the Mo¨nch fixed-point technique via the measure of noncompactness, and the fundamental theory of fractional calculus. Finally, to clarify our key points, we provide an application.
Preface to the Special Issue on “Fuzzy Natural Logic in IFSA-EUSFLAT 2021”
Authors: Novák Vilém , Dvořák Antonín
Published: November 2022

In [...]
Proposed Model of a Dynamic Investment Portfolio with an Adaptive Strategy
Authors: Ivanyuk Vera
Published: November 2022

This article covers a set of models and methods of portfolio investment which help adapt modern economic and mathematical instruments of portfolio investment to the current financial market situation. The main hypotheses serve as a basis for the adaptive dynamic investment portfolio. The experimental analysis shows that the adaptive dynamic investment strategy is more beneficial than classical approaches. The advantage of the adaptive strategy is that it is based on forecast data, whereas classical strategies focus only on historical data.
Ergodicity Bounds and Limiting Characteristics for a Modified Prendiville Model
Authors: Usov Ilya , Satin Yacov , Zeifman Alexander , Korolev Victor
Published: November 2022

We consider the time-inhomogeneous Prendiville model with failures and repairs. The property of weak ergodicity is considered, and estimates of the rate of convergence for the main probabilistic characteristics of the model are obtained. Several examples are considered showing how such estimates are obtained and how the limiting characteristics themselves are constructed.
Real-World Experience of Monitoring Practice of Endocrinopathies Associated with the Use of Novel Targeted Therapies among Patients with Solid Tumors
Authors: AlHarbi Atika , Alshamrani Majed , Khan Mansoor , Alnatsheh Abdelmajid , Aseeri Mohammed
Published: November 2022

Background: Cancer treatments have gradually evolved into targeted molecular therapies characterized by a unique mechanism of action instead of non-specific cytotoxic chemotherapies. However, they have unique safety concerns. For instance, endocrinopathies, which are defined as unfavorable metabolic alterations including thyroid disorders, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and adrenal insufficiency necessitate additional monitoring. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of monitoring errors and develop strategies for monitoring cancer patients who receive targeted therapies. Method: A retrospective chart review was used to assess the prevalence of monitoring errors of endocrinopathies among cancer patients who received targeted therapies over one year. All of the adult cancer patients diagnosed with a solid tumor who received targeted therapies were included. The primary outcome was to determine the prevalence of monitoring errors of endocrinopathies. The secondary outcomes were to assess the incidences of endocrinopathies and referral practice to endocrinology services. Results: A total of 128 adult patients with solid tumors were involved. The primary outcome revealed a total of 148 monitoring errors of endocrinopathies. Monitoring errors of the lipid profile and thyroid functions were the most common error types in 94% and 92.6% of the patients treated with novel targeted therapies, respectively. Subsequently, 57% of the monitoring errors in the blood glucose measures were identified. Targeted therapies caused 63 events of endocrinopathies, hyperglycemia in 32% of the patients, thyroid disorders in 15.6% of them and dyslipidemia in 1.5% of the patients. Conclusion: Our study showed a high prevalence of monitoring errors among the cancer patients who received targeted therapies which led to endocrinopathies. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to monitoring strategies and following up on the appropriate referral process.
Biological Membranes as Targets for Natural and Synthetic Compounds
Authors: Regasini Luis Octavio
Published: November 2022

Biological membranes are responsible for all types of regulation and compound transfer, as well as information flow between and within eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells [...]
Adsorption Performance of a Multimodal Anion-Exchange Chromatography Membrane: Effect of Liquid Phase Composition and Separation Mode
Authors: Kurák Tomáš , Polakovič Milan
Published: November 2022

Membrane chromatography is a modern, high-throughput separation method that finds important applications in therapeutic protein purification. Multimodal, salt-tolerant membranes are the most recent innovation in chromatographic membrane adsorbents. Due to the complex structure of their ligands and the bimodal texture of their carriers, their adsorption properties have not been sufficiently investigated. This work deals with the equilibrium and kinetic properties of a multimodal anion-exchange chromatography membrane, Sartobind STIC. Single- and two-component adsorption experiments were carried out with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and salmon DNA as model target and impurity components. The effect of the Hofmeister series ions and ionic strength on the BSA/DNA adsorption was investigated in micromembrane flow experiments. A significant difference was observed between the effects of monovalent and polyvalent ions when strong kosmotropic salts with polyvalent anions acted as strong displacers of BSA. On the contrary, DNA binding was rather high at elevated ionic strength, independent of the salt type. Two-component micromembrane experiments confirmed very high selectivity of DNA binding at a rather low sodium sulfate feed content and at pH 8. The strength of binding was examined in more than a dozen different desorption experiments. While BSA was desorbed relatively easily using high salt concentrations independent of buffer type and pH, while DNA was desorbed only in a very limited measure under any conditions. Separation experiments in a laboratory membrane module were carried out for the feed containing 1 g/L of BSA, 0.3 g/L of DNA, and 0.15 M of sodium sulfate. The negative flow-through mode was found to be more advantageous than the bind-elute mode, as BSA was obtained with 99% purity and a 97% yield. Membrane reuse was investigated in three adsorption-desorption-regeneration cycles.
AM60-AlN Nanocomposite and AM60 Alloy Corrosion Activity in Simulated Marine-Coastal Ambience
Authors: Chávez Luis , Veleva Lucien , Sánchez Gerardo , Dieringa Hajo
Published: November 2022

The initial stages of AM60-AlN nanocomposite and AM60 corrosion behaviors were compared over 30 days of exposure to solution (NaCl, Na2SO4 and NaHCO3), simulating the marine-coastal environment (SME). The incorporation of AlN nanoparticles (1.0 wt.%) in the AM60 alloy matrix favored the lower roughness of the AM60-AlN, associated with the grain refinement in the matrix. During the immersion of the alloys, pH of the SME solution shifted to alkaline values >9, and therefore, the solubility of AlN aluminum hydroxide phases were raised, followed by a slightly higher release of Mg-ions and corrosion rate increase. The chloride ions attributed to the unstability of the Al-Mn phase and Al(OH)3 corrosion product was formed in a low content. The composite AM60-AlN presented lower value of the electrochemical noise resistance (Rn), suggesting that the corrosion process occurs with less difficulty. The localized corrosion near the Al-Mn cathodes seems to be stronger on the composite surface, in area and depth of penetration. The corrosion current fluctuations suggested that the corrosion is a weakly persistent process, dominated by the fractional Gaussian noise (fGn).
Hydriding, Oxidation, and Ductility Evaluation of Cr-Coated Zircaloy-4 Tubing
Authors: Yan Yong , Graening Tim , Nelson Andrew T.
Published: November 2022

Accident-tolerant fuel concepts have been developed recently in diverse research programs. Recent research has shown clear advantages of Cr-coated Zr cladding over bare cladding tubes regarding oxidation behavior under the design basis loss-of-coolant accident condition. However, limited data are available about the hydriding behavior of the Cr coating. For that purpose, Cr-coated Zricaloy-4 tubes were tested to investigate the effects of hydriding, oxidation, and postquench ductility behavior on coated Zr cladding. A high-power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) process was used to produce a high-density coating on the Zircaloy-4 tube surface. Coated and uncoated Zircaloy-4 tube specimens underwent one-sided hydriding in a tube furnace filled with pure hydrogen gas at 425 °C. The tubing specimen ends were sealed with Swagelok plugs before the hydriding runs. For uncoated specimens, H analysis of the hydrided specimens indicated that the H content increased as the test time and initial pressure increased. However, almost no change was observed for the coated specimens that were hydrided under the same test conditions. After one-sided hydriding, the hydrided coated and uncoated specimens were exposed to steam at high temperatures for two-sided oxidation studies to simulate accident conditions. The coated specimens showed a slower oxidation: oxygen pickup was 50% lower than the uncoated specimens tested under the same conditions. Ring compression testing was performed to evaluate the embrittlement behavior of the Cr-coated specimens after hydriding and oxidation. The results indicated that the HiPIMS coating provides excellent protection from hydriding and oxidation at high temperatures.
A Time-Series Metabolomic Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in a Ferret Model
Authors: Karpe Avinash V. , Nguyen Thao V. , Shah Rohan M. , Au Gough G. , McAuley Alexander J. , Marsh Glenn A. , Riddell Sarah , Vasan Seshadri S. , Beale David J.
Published: November 2022

The global threat of COVID-19 has led to an increased use of metabolomics to study SARS-CoV-2 infections in animals and humans. In spite of these efforts, however, understanding the metabolome of SARS-CoV-2 during an infection remains difficult and incomplete. In this study, metabolic responses to a SAS-CoV-2 challenge experiment were studied in nasal washes collected from an asymptomatic ferret model (n = 20) at different time points before and after infection using an LC-MS-based metabolomics approach. A multivariate analysis of the nasal wash metabolome data revealed several statistically significant features. Despite no effects of sex or interaction between sex and time on the time course of SARS-CoV-2 infection, 16 metabolites were significantly different at all time points post-infection. Among these altered metabolites, the relative abundance of taurine was elevated post-infection, which could be an indication of hepatotoxicity, while the accumulation of sialic acids could indicate SARS-CoV-2 invasion. Enrichment analysis identified several pathways influenced by SARS-CoV-2 infection. Of these, sugar, glycan, and amino acid metabolisms were the key altered pathways in the upper respiratory channel during infection. These findings provide some new insights into the progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection in ferrets at the metabolic level, which could be useful for the development of early clinical diagnosis tools and new or repurposed drug therapies.