bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Physiotherapy on Physical Capacity of 7–11-Year-Old Children with Autism Disorder
Authors: Labanauskaitė Indrė , Lileikytė Agnė , Vasilionytė Aistė , Dudonienė Vilma , Urbonavičius Valdas , Čižauskienė Sandra , Juknevičienė Raimonda
Published: October 2020

Research background. Autism is one of the most difficult wide spectrum developmental disorders. Recently, striking increase in the number of autistic children is observed. Physical activation is important for the development and physical fitness of children with autism disorder. Research object – children’s balance, muscle strength and endurance. The aim was to evaluate physical capacity and impact of physiotherapy on balance, muscle strength and endurance in 7–11-yearold children with autism disorder. Methods. The study group consisted of 10 children with autism disorder (8 boys and 2 girls), the control group consisted of 18 healthy children (15 boys and 3 girls). The average age of the study group was 8.90 ± 1.4 years; in the control group 8.94 ± 1.0 years. Balance of children was assessed by Berg Balance Scale, hand grip – by dynamometry, leg muscle strength – by long jump test and squat test, and endurance of abdominal muscle – by sit up test. The results showed that physical condition of children with autism disorder was significantly poorer compared to healthy children: the balance – 43.9 ± 7.82 v. s. 55.4 ± 0.9 points; right hand muscle strength of 5.9 ± 2.06 kg v. s. 12.2 ± 3.43 kg; left – 5.3 ± 1.87 kg v. s 12.1 ± 3.43; long jump 43.0 ± 25.25 cm v. s 132.6 ± 31.87 cm; endurance of abdominal muscles 7.3 ± 2.01 v. s 19.6 ± 4.06 times per 30 s; squats 9.1 ± 4.36 v. s 27.6 ± 7.07 times per 30 s. After applying physical therapy results of all performed tests in children with autism improved significantly: balance to 49.9 ± by 5.45 points, right hand muscle strength to 7.9 ± 2.49 kg, left – 7.5 ± 2.31 kg, long jump to 79.2 ± 39.87 cm, crunches to 11.8 ± 4.54 times, squats to 14.8 ± 4.83 times, but they did not reach the results of healthy children. Conclusion. Balance, muscle strength and endurance of children with autism disorder were significantly lower than those in healthy children. Physical therapy significantly improved physical capacity of autistic children, but the level of healthy children was not reached.Keywords: autism, children, physiotherapy.
6-Minute Walk Test on the Treadmill in the Process of Effort Tolerance Assessment in Patients vith COPD
Authors: Szczegielniak Jan , Ledwoń Jarosław , Wójtowicz Bogusława , Luniewski Jacek , Krajczy Marcin , Bogacz Katarzyna
Published: October 2020

Treadmill test, cycloergometer test and walk tests are used to assess effort tolerance in patients with COPD. The 6-minute walk test (6MWT) is an easy and objective tool frequently used in clinical practice. The 6-minute walk test is used to assess effort tolerance in the process of qualification for an adequate model of pulmonological rehabilitation and as a way of assessing the effects of physiotherapy. The objective of this work was to verify the usefulness of the 6-minute walk test on the treadmill for effort tolerance assessment in patients with COPD. The research included 33 in-patients with COPD (18 males and 15 females) treated in MSWiA Hospital in Glucholazy. Before therapy, all patients were given a 6-minute walk test conducted in the hospital corridor and a 6-minute walk test on the treadmill. Distance, average walk speed and energy expenditure were recorded for each patient. Obtained data was subjected to statistical analysis with the use of the Wilcoxon Test with the level of statistical significance at p < 0.05 for all tests. The comparison of the results achieved by the patients in the 6-minute walk test carried out in the hospital corridor and the results of the 6-minute walk test conducted on the treadmill showed significant differences between these two test methods within the same group of patients. The differences in the values of parameters indicating both distance and MET in the two tests were of statistical significance (p < 0.05). Significantly higher parameter values indicating distance covered and MET were observed in the patients tested in the hospital corridor. The 6-minute walk test on the treadmill should not be used as an alternative to other tests for effort tolerance assessment for the same patients.Keywords: 6-min walk test, COPD, physiotherapy.
Effect of Fertilizers on the Straw Product Increase of Winter Wheat in the Ganja-Gazakh Region
Authors: Guliyeva R.
Published: October 2020

An application of inorganic and organic fertilizers under winter wheat plant affected the increase of the straw product along with the grain to a considerable extent. So, as a result of an application of fertilizers under the winter wheat plant, the highest straw crow was obtained 86.7 centner per hectare under the variant of NPK as in grain product, the increase was 36.9 centner per hectare or 74.1%; than the control version; manure was 82.9 centner per hectare; 33.0 centner per hectare or 66.3% under the version of 30 ton per hectare. We can come to such a conclusion that there is a need for an application of mineral fertilizer to the winter wheat within the norm. Bat it is enough to apply 30 ton per hectare. If so the straw productivity of the wheat plant was higher. Fertilizers restores the soil fertility along with increase of productivity of the winter wheat plant and improves the quality indicators of the crop establishing ecological pure product.
The Role of Agriculture in the Export Potential of Uzbekistan
Authors: Tukhtaev A.
Published: October 2020

As a result of reforms that carried out in Uzbekistan during the years of independence, our country has become not only an importing country, but also one of the ten countries with high export potential. It is known that more than 20 million tons of vegetables and fruits are grown in Uzbekistan. It is illuminated the experience of Uzbekistan in the exporting of these products to foreign countries in this article.
Inflammation in Atherosclerosis: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Chaulin A. , Grigoryeva Ju.
Published: October 2020

Inflammation causes the formation, progression, and rupture of atherosclerotic plaques, which are an integral part of cardiovascular diseases. Numerous components are involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic inflammation. Experimental studies have shown that the inflammatory subpopulation of monocytes / macrophages mainly accumulates in the atherosclerotic plaque and produces Pro-inflammatory cytokines that enhance atherogenesis. T-lymphocytes can contribute to the inflammatory processes that contribute to thrombosis by stimulating the production of collagen-destroying proteinases and a powerful procoagulant substance, tissue factor. Many research data link obesity, inflammation, and risk factors for atherosclerosis, which is a growing clinical concern given the increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide. Modulators of inflammation originating from visceral adipose tissue cause the liver to produce acute phase reagents involved in thrombosis. Additionally, levels of C-reactive protein increase with increasing levels of visceral adipose tissue. The adipose tissue of obese mice contains an increased number of macrophages and T-lymphocytes, increased activation of T-lymphocytes, and increased expression of interferon-gamma. It was found that interferon-gamma deficiency in mice reduces the production of inflammatory cytokines and the accumulation of inflammatory cells in adipose tissue. Another series of experiments on mice in vitro and in vivo confirmed that adiponectin, an adipocytokine whose plasma levels drop with obesity, acts as an endogenous anti-inflammatory modulator of both innate and acquired immunity in atherogenesis. Thus, the accumulation of experimental data confirms the key role of inflammation as a link between risk factors for atherosclerosis and the biology underlying the complications of this disease. A large Jupiter clinical trial confirms the clinical utility of assessing inflammatory status in therapeutic interventions to limit cardiovascular events. Thus, knowledge of the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying atherosclerotic inflammation is not only of theoretical value, but can also be used in practice when assessing the risk and prescribing therapy.
Validation of blood pressure measurement with Medicom-Combi blood pressure monitor using oscillometric and auscultatory methods for use among adults (according to International Protocol of European Society of Hypertension for validation of blood pressure measuring devices in adults)
Authors: Fedulaev Yu. N. , Makarova I. V. , Orlova N. V. , Pinchuk T. V. , Andreeva O. N. , Pivovarov V. Yu. , Gribanov V. P.
Published: October 2020

Purpose. To evaluate the accuracy of measuring blood pressure (BP) by the ECG and Medicom-Combi daily blood pressure monitoring system, designed to monitor blood pressure with oscillometric and auscultatory methods, among adults in accordance with the European Hypertension Society’s International Protocol for validation of adult blood pressure measuring instruments (ESH‑2001).

Materials and methods. Patients were recruited based on criteria recommended by the ESH‑2001 protocol. A total of 99 pairs of test and control measurements of blood pressure were obtained (three pairs of measurements for each of 33 subjects). The measurements were carried out sequentially on the same arm. For the arm circumference of 24–32 cm and 32–42 cm, two cuffs of the test complex were used (adult small and adult large, respectively).

Results. When testing the complex, 66, 93, and 99 measurements were obtained within 5, 10, and 15 mmHg for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 66, 89 and 95 measurements for diastolic blood pressure (DBP), respectively, using the oscillometric method, as well as 71, 93 and 97 measurements for SBP and 71, 84 and 93 measurements for DBP, respectively, when using the auscultatory method. The mean ± SD of the differences between the test and control measurements were 1.8 ± 5.4 / 1.6 ± 6.9 mmHg for SBP / DBP using the oscillometric method and 0.8 ± 5.9 / –1.2 ± 7.9 mmHg for SBP / DBP using the auscultatory method.

Conclusion. The complex of daily monitoring of ECG and blood pressure Medicom-Combi, designed for daily monitoring of blood pressure, meets the requirements stated in the international protocol ESH‑2001 (class ‘Passed’) for adults and is recommended for use in clinical practice.
Combined therapy for treatment of acute respiratory viral infections: analysis of combined complex AnviMax
Authors: Gromova O. A. , Torshin I. Yu.
Published: October 2020

The annual increase in the incidence of influenza, SARS, and the COVID‑19 pandemic indicate the need for comprehensive programs to support congenital antiviral immunity. To increase the effectiveness of the treatment of viral respiratory infections, it is important to attenuate the effects of the so-called cytokine storm and enhanced compensation of the patient’s comorbid pathologies. Increasing the availability of zinc, vitamin C and rutoside can improve the body’s resistance to viral infections. In addition to micronutrients, to reduce the activity of allergic inflammation, second-generation H1-histamine receptor blockers (loratadine, etc.) and calcium gluconate can be used. To lower the  temperature, it is important to include paracetamol in therapy.
Estado reciente de los derechos sexuales y reproductivos de mujeres migrantes que residen en la Ciudad de Buenos Aires
Authors: Fanta Garrido Javiera Verónica
Published: October 2020

Sexual and reproductive rights of migrant women are a subject of growing interest due to the difficulties in accessing sexual and reproductive health services and supplies, along with constraints inherent to the health care system. This article analyzes the status of some sexual and reproductive rights of immigrant women from neighboring countries and Peru residing in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Using secondary data and interviews with key informants, this research examines adolescent reproduction, access to preventive care, and the predominant characteristics the in sexual and reproductive health care of this population group.
Osmanlı İstanbulu’nda 18 Şaban 1130 (17 Temmuz 1718) Gecesi Meydana Gelen Yangın ve Yol Açtığı Hasarın Telafisi Hakkında Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: KARS Rümeysa
Published: October 2020

İstanbul, Asya ve Avrupa kıtaları arasında köprü vazifesi gören bir şehirdir. Tarih boyunca birçok medeniyete beşiklik ettiği gibi, birbirinden farklı kültürlere de ev sahipliği yapmıştır. Farklı medeniyetlerin birbiri ardına yaşadığı bir kentte o medeniyete ait kültürel katmanların izlerini taşıyan mekanlar, kente başka bir zenginlik katmaktadır. Bu kültürel arka planın muhafazası için kültürel mirasın nesillere nakli hususu da dikkate şayandır. Ancak bir takım etkenler bilhassa da afetler bu birikimin zarar görmesine hatta çoğunlukla yok olmasına sebebiyet vermektedir. İstanbul halkı, Roma, Bizans ve Osmanlı dönemlerinden tevarüs eden kültürel birikiminin muhafazası hususunda doğal afetlerden ve bilhassa da insan kaynaklı afet olarak nitelendirebileceğimiz yangınlardan çok çile çekmiştir. Bilhassa Osmanlı döneminde çıkan yangınların bazılarının gerçek bir felaket halini aldığı kaynaklardan anlaşılmaktadır.

XVIII. Yüzyılın başlarında zuhura gelen ve verdiği zarar dolayısıyla doğal bir afete dönüşen İstanbul yangınında birçok ev, dükkan yanarak kullanılamaz hale gelmiştir. Yollanan hükümler genelde ahaliye ev ve dükkan yapımında kolaylık sağlanması, yangın sonrası ev yapımı için gerekli olan malzemeyi yüksek fiyattan satmak isteyen muhtekirlerden korunması ve kaybolan değerli eşyaların bulundurulmasına yöneliktir.
ISSUES OF TECHNOLOGICAL REGULARITIES IN MODERN CONDITIONS OF OPTICAL INSTRUMENT MAKING
Authors: Gurin Danil A. , Petrov Pavel V.
Published: October 2020

The article discusses the relevance of building technological patterns in the field of optical production technology. Attention is drawn to the problem of technological secrets. Various periods of development of domestic optical production are considered, when advanced production experience and knowledge were consciously distributed and, on the contrary, consciously limited. The features of constructing technological regularities in the conditions of modern optical instrumentation are listed. A comparison of the manufacturing technology of prisms of XX-XXI centuries is given.
PROJECT OF "SMART" SENSORS PLACEMENT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING IN THE LENINSKY DISTRICT OF NOVOSIBIRSK
Authors: Kovalev Dmitry V. , Kulik Ekaterina N.
Published: October 2020

The article suggests the creation of a wireless sensor network project for monitoring the quality of the atmosphere in the Leninsky district of Novosibirsk. The concept diagram of a wireless sensor network is shown, the basic digital IOT platform for system deployment is defined, and the use of ArcGIS tools is recommended.
DEVELOPMENT OF CYBERSECURITY AUDIT METHODOLOGY FOR STATE INFORMATION SYSTEMS RELATED TO SIGNIFICANT OBJECTS OF CRITICAL INFORMATION INFRASTRUCTURE OPERATING ON THE BASIS OF DATA CENTERS
Authors: An Vladimir R. , Tabakaeva Valeria A. , Selifanov Valentin V.
Published: October 2020

The problem of developing a cybersecurity audit methodology for state information systems related to significant objects (SO) of critical information infrastructure (CII), operating on the basis of data centers is considered. In accordance with the requirements of the legislation, state control is carried out in accordance with the Order of the FSTEC of Russia dated February 11, 2013 №17 “Requirements. Ensuring the protection of information not constituting a state secret.” Currently, there are many international and domestic recommendations and practices to conducting cybersecurity audit of information systems, but they do not meet the existing and emerging requirements in the field of cybersecurity of SO CII of the Russian Federation and cannot be applied without significant improvement. The authors consider the issues that need to be solved in order to develop an audit methodology, analyze existing legislative and regulatory acts of the Russian Federation and Federal Executive bodies authorized in this area, methodological documents (MD) and standards, as well as possible reasons for the current situation. An algorithm of possible actions for conducting a cybersecurity audit in the course of state control is proposed. The algorithm is a result of compiling international practices (standards) and requirements adopted in the Russian Federation, as well as requirements to the necessary tools - vulnerability analysis systems and support software (database management systems).
DEVELOPMENT OF A GIS MODEL OF OIL AND GAS COMPLEX ON THE EXAMPLE OF KHANTY-MANSI AUTONOMOUS DISTRICT
Authors: Vergunov Alexsey S. , Radchenko Lyudmila K.
Published: October 2020

The article considers the need to create a geoinformation model of the KHMAO oil and gas complex. The tasks that can be solved using the geo-information model of the oil and gas complex are listed. Technological scheme of building a GIS model of oil and gas complex of KHMAO is given, the maintenance of geoinformation models of oil and gas complex. justified are.
Inferring True COVID19 Infection Rates From Deaths
Authors: McCulloh Ian , Kiernan Kevin , Kent Trevor
Published: October 2020

The novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, commonly known as COVID19 has become a global pandemic in early 2020. The world has mounted a global social distancing intervention on a scale thought unimaginable prior to this outbreak; however, the economic impact and sustainability limits of this policy create significant challenges for government leaders around the world. Understanding the future spread and growth of COVID19 is further complicated by data quality issues due to high numbers of asymptomatic patients who may transmit the disease yet show no symptoms; lack of testing resources; failure of recovered patients to be counted; delays in reporting hospitalizations and deaths; and the co-morbidity of other life-threatening illnesses. We propose a Monte Carlo method for inferring true case counts from observed deaths using clinical estimates of Infection Fatality Ratios and Time to Death. Findings indicate that current COVID19 confirmed positive counts represent a small fraction of actual cases, and that even relatively effective surveillance regimes fail to identify all infectious individuals. We further demonstrate that the miscount also distorts officials' ability to discern the peak of an epidemic, confounding efforts to assess the efficacy of various interventions.
Assessment of Water Needs of Grapevines in Western Poland from the Perspective of Climate Change
Authors: Jagosz Barbara , Rolbiecki Stanisław , Stachowski Piotr , Ptach Wiesław , Łangowski Ariel , Kasperska-Wołowicz Wiesława , Sadan Hicran A. , Rolbiecki Roman , Prus Piotr , Kazula Maciej J.
Published: October 2020

Climate changes lead to a rise in air temperature, which significantly increases the water needs of plants. Maintaining crop productivity will increasingly require the use of plant irrigation. The aim of this study was to assess the water needs of grapevines cultivated in the western provinces of Poland. The calculations were made on the basis of temperature and precipitation measurements collected at three meteorological stations in the period 1981–2010. Water needs were calculated as crop evapotranspiration, which was estimated by crop coefficients and reference evapotranspiration, determined using the Blaney–Criddle formula. The rainfall deficit was assessed by Ostromęcki’s method. The tendency to increase the water needs was observed in each subsequent decade of the thirty-year period, both in the whole growing season (May–October), as well as in June–August and July. The highest values of the linear correlation coefficient for the trend of time variability in water needs occurred from June to August. An analysis of water needs and rainfall deficits indicates the need for the additional irrigation of vineyards in western Poland, especially in very dry years and in June–August. Current research results are helpful in designing vineyard irrigation systems and allow an economical and efficient planning of grapevine irrigation.
Practical Applications of Plant Biostimulants in Greenhouse Vegetable Crop Production
Authors: Petropoulos Spyridon A.
Published: October 2020

The research interest on plant biostimulant applications in vegetable crop production is gradually increasing and several reports highlight the beneficial effects that such products may have not only on crop performance but also on the quality of the final product. Moreover, numerous products with biostimulatory activity are being developed which need further evaluation under variable growing conditions and different crops. Plant hydrolysates which contain amino acids and peptides have been acclaimed with several positive effects on crop performance of diverse horticultural crops, while macro-algae are also considered effective biostimulants on plants grown under stress conditions. A recent study evaluated the use of protein hydrolysates and brown macro-algae (Ascophyllum nodosum and Ecklonia maxima) as innovative and cost effective approaches for sustainable vegetable production. The present editorial provides an overview of the main findings of that study, while discussing the practical applications that biostimulants may have in the greenhouse production of vegetable crops, aiming to increase the yield and the quality of the final produce and improve crop tolerance to abiotic stressors.
Raising Beet Tolerance to Salinity through Bioaugmentation with Halotolerant Endophytes
Authors: Szymańska Sonia , Tyburski Jarosław , Piernik Agnieszka , Sikora Marcin , Mazur Justyna , Katarzyna Hrynkiewicz
Published: October 2020

Increasing land salinization in recent decades has led to a decrease in crop productivity worldwide. We hypothesized that bioaugmentation of beetroot (Beta vulgaris) with halotolerant endophytic bacterial strains isolated from the obligatory halophytic plant Salicornia europaea L. may mitigate salt stress in new host plants. Therefore, we investigated the effects of inoculation with Pseudomonas stutzeri ISE12 or Kushneria marisflavi CSE9 on B. vulgaris growth in substrates enriched with various NaCl concentrations (0, 50, 150, 300 mM). The results of this study indicated that bioaugmentation with either bacteria resulted in improved growth parameters and increased chlorophyll content, as well as decreased proline and hydrogen peroxide concentrations, in B. vulgaris organs. However, K. marisflavi CSE9 was more efficient in achieving salt stress mitigation than P. stutzeri ISE12. In conclusion, the range of salinity tolerance seems to be a key parameter in the selection of strains for beet inoculation. The selected halotolerant endophytes (P. stutzeri ISE12 and K. marisflavi CSE9) isolated from the roots of obligatory halophytic S. europaea may be employed for plant growth promotion, especially in saline areas, and have potential applications in sustainable agriculture.
Resistance to Fomesafen, Imazamox and Glyphosate in Euphorbia heterophylla from Brazil
Authors: Palma-Bautista Candelario , Rojano-Delgado Antonia M. , Vázquez-García José G. , Yanniccari Marcos , Prado Rafael De
Published: October 2020

Euphorbia heterophylla is a species of weed that was previously controlled by fomesafen, imazamox and glyphosate, but continued use of these herbicides has selected resistant populations from the Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil). One resistant (R) strain and one susceptible (S) strain to fomesafen, imazamox and glyphosate were compared, the latter by recurrent selection. Dose-response tests showed multiple resistance to these herbicides. The required imazamox concentration to inhibit ALS by 50% was approximately 16 times greater in the R population than in the S population. Based on the EPSPS activity results, the R population was 10 fold less sensitive to glyphosate than the S counterpart. In addition, basal EPSPS activity from R plants was 3.3 fold higher than the level detected on S plants. The Proto IX assays showed high resistance to fomesafen in the R population that accumulated less Proto IX than the S population. Malathion assays showed the participation of CytP450 in fomesafen resistance, but a molecular mechanism could also be involved. To our knowledge, this is the first characterisation of multiple resistance to these three groups of herbicides in E. heterophylla in the world.
Radical Scavenging Activity of Olive Oil Phenolic Antioxidants in Oil or Water Phase during the Oxidation of O/W Emulsions: An Oxidomics Approach
Authors: Paradiso Vito Michele , Flamminii Federica , Pittia Paola , Caponio Francesco , Mattia Carla Di
Published: October 2020

Omics approaches are recently being applied also in food lipid oxidation, to increase knowledge of oxidation and antioxidation mechanisms. The so-called oxidomics throws a wider spot of light on the complex patterns of reactions taking place in food lipids, especially in dispersed systems. This research aimed to investigate the radical scavenging activity of olive oil phenolic antioxidants (OPAs) in O/W emulsions, as affected by the phase in which they were added. This allowed one to assess whether different behaviors could be expected from antioxidants originally present in phenolic-rich olive oils compared to natural antioxidants added in the water phase during emulsion production. Hydroperoxide decomposition kinetics and the analysis of volatile pattern provided an outline of antioxidation mechanisms. Though being effective in slowing down oxidation when added both in the oil and water phase, OPAs interfered in different ways with oxidation pathways, based on the phase in which they were added. OPAs added to the water phase were more effective in slowing down hydroperoxide decomposition due to the hydrophilic radical initiator. On the other hand, OPAs present in the oil were more effective in preventing radical propagation, with relevant consequences on the volatile pattern.
Vasoconstrictor Mechanisms in Chronic Hypoxia-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension: Role of Oxidant Signaling
Authors: Yan Simin , Resta Thomas C. , Jernigan Nikki L.
Published: October 2020

Elevated resistance of pulmonary circulation after chronic hypoxia exposure leads to pulmonary hypertension. Contributing to this pathological process is enhanced pulmonary vasoconstriction through both calcium-dependent and calcium sensitization mechanisms. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), as a result of increased enzymatic production and/or decreased scavenging, participate in augmentation of pulmonary arterial constriction by potentiating calcium influx as well as activation of myofilament sensitization, therefore mediating the development of pulmonary hypertension. Here, we review the effects of chronic hypoxia on sources of ROS within the pulmonary vasculature including NADPH oxidases, mitochondria, uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase, xanthine oxidase, monoamine oxidases and dysfunctional superoxide dismutases. We also summarize the ROS-induced functional alterations of various Ca2+ and K+ channels involved in regulating Ca2+ influx, and of Rho kinase that is responsible for myofilament Ca2+ sensitivity. A variety of antioxidants have been shown to have beneficial therapeutic effects in animal models of pulmonary hypertension, supporting the role of ROS in the development of pulmonary hypertension. A better understanding of the mechanisms by which ROS enhance vasoconstriction will be useful in evaluating the efficacy of antioxidants for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension.
Soft Underwater Robot Actuated by Shape-Memory Alloys “JellyRobcib” for Path Tracking through Fuzzy Visual Control
Authors: Cruz Ulloa Christyan , Terrile Silvia , Barrientos Antonio
Published: October 2020

Recent developments in bioinspired technologies combined with the advance of intelligent and soft materials have allowed soft robots to replicate the behavior of different animal species. These devices can perform complicated tasks such as reaching or adapting in constrained and unstructured environments. This article proposes a methodology to develop a soft robot called “JellyRobcib” inspired in morphology and behavior by jellyfish, using shape-memory alloy springs as actuators (as bio-muscles). Such actuators can move the jellyfish both vertically and laterally by applying closed-loop fuzzy and visual controls. Additionally, Computer-Assisted Designs and Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations have been carried out to validate the soft robot model. The results show that the robot movements are very close to the morphological behavior of a real jellyfish regarding the curves of displacements, speeds and accelerations, after performing several experiments for autonomous movement: vertical ascent, lateral movements and trajectory tracking, obtaining an accuracy of ±1479 cm and repeatability of 0.944 for lateral movements for fuzzy visual control. Furthermore, thermal measurements were taken throughout a given path, allowing the generation of temperature gradients within the underwater environment for monitoring purposes.
Assessment of Terrorism Risk to Critical Infrastructures: The Case of a Power-Supply Substation
Authors: Yao Xijun , Wei Hsi-Hsien , Shohet Igal M. , Skibniewski Miroslaw J.
Published: October 2020

This paper presents a novel approach for estimating the vulnerability level of critical infrastructure confronting potential terrorist threats and assessing the usefulness of various protection strategies for critical infrastructure (CI). A methodology, utilizing a combination of topological network analysis and game theory, is presented to evaluate the effectiveness of protection strategies for certain components in the infrastructure under various attack scenarios. This paper focuses on protective strategies that are based on different attack scenarios as well as on the connectivity of the critical infrastructure components. The methodology proposed allows optimization of protection strategies in terms of investment in critical infrastructure protection in order to reduce expenditures on local infrastructure protection or on a single critical infrastructure for small projects. A case study of a power-supply substation is included to validate the analytical framework. The results indicate that the framework is highly applicable to other types of critical infrastructures facing similar threats. The results suggest that when only terrorist attacks are considered, improving the robustness of CI has a much higher effectiveness and efficiency than improving CI redundancy. The research methodology in this paper can be applied to a wide range of critical infrastructures and systems that may be at risk from manmade extreme events.
Simple Approximate Formulas for Postbuckling Deflection of Heavy Elastic Columns
Authors: Shima Hiroyuki
Published: October 2020

Columnar buckling is a ubiquitous phenomenon that occurs in both living things and man-made objects, regardless of the length scale ranging from macroscopic to nanometric structures. In general, analyzing the post-buckling behavior of a column requires the application of complex mathematical methods because it involves nonlinear problem solving. To complement these complex methods, this study presents simple analytical formulas for the large deflection of a heavy elastic column under combined loads. The analytical formulas relate the concentrated load acting on the tip of the column, the column’s own weight, and the deflection angle of the column through a simple mathematical expression. This can assist in obtaining an overall picture of the post-buckling behavior of heavy columns from an application point of view.
Seebeck–Peltier Transition Approach to Oncogenesis
Authors: Lucia Umberto , Grisolia Giulia
Published: October 2020

In this paper, a non-equilibrium thermodynamic approach to cancer is developed. The thermo-electric effects in the cell membrane are analysed, in relation to the Seebeck-like and the Peltier-like effects. The role of the cell membrane electric potential is studied from a thermodynamic viewpoint, pointing out the relation between the proliferation rate and the membrane potential, the existence of a thermodynamic threshold for the mitotic activity, the relation between metastases and membrane potential and the comprehension of the role of ions fluxes in the cell behaviour.
Air Changes for Healthy Indoor Ambiences under Pandemic Conditions and Its Energetic Implications: A Galician Case Study
Authors: Orosa José A. , Kameni Nematchoua Modeste , Reiter Sigrid
Published: October 2020

The present paper aims to show a mathematical understanding of the effect of ventilation rate over building energy consumption. Moreover, as a case study to show this methodology, a proposal was analyzed of modifying the teaching period to reach a maximum increase of air changes in school buildings, to allow adherence to the COVID-19 pandemic requirements in the Galicia region, with lower energy consumption. In this sense, to analyze the energetic implication of this proposal, the building construction was defined, modeled in accordance with the ISO Standard 13790 and implemented in accordance with the Monte Carlo method. Results showed the probability of energy consumption as a Weibull model. Furthermore, a map of different Weibull models in accordance with different ventilation rates was developed. The constants of the Weibull models allow to identify normal distributions of the probability density functions of energy consumption, especially the ones with lower energy consumption. As a consequence, these constants are a better parameter to identify the optimal ventilation rate for each season in search of a healthy indoor ambience, which is of interest for a future design guide. Finally, the main results showed a reduction of energy consumption at a higher ventilation rate in the summer season. As a consequence, the necessity of modifying teachings periods, as an adequate procedure to prevent more COVID infections, is concluded.
Noise Analysis in Pre-Amplifier Circuits Associated to Highly Sensitive Optically-Pumped Magnetometers for Geomagnetic Applications
Authors: Liu Leisong , Lu Yuantian , Zhuang Xin , Zhang Qunying , Fang Guangyou
Published: October 2020

This paper analyzes the noise sources in photoelectric detection circuits with several low-noise operational amplifiers cores. The fabricated circuits are low-noise pre-amplifiers that are used for optically pumped magnetometers. In the proposed circuits, the noise levels of equivalent output voltage are calculated, and the results are in accordance with measurements. With a cooperation of several operational amplifiers, we select LT1028 from linear technologies as the core for our detection circuit, which has an output signal-to-noise ratio of more than 2 × 105 up to the frequency of 100 kHz. By analyzing the individual noise sources in the detection circuit, the dominant noise source is confirmed as the photocurrent shot noise below 200 kHz. Beyond this frequency, the voltage noise source in the operational amplifier dominates. Besides, the lamp power, the radio frequency (RF) power, the temperature variations, and their influences on the sensitivity are studied and optimized. Finally, an optically pumped magnetometer with cesium head is established, showing an intrinsic sensitivity of 85 fT/√Hz. This sensitivity is realized under a geomagnetic magnetic field strength of 53 μT.
Multi-Body Dynamics Modeling and Control for Strapdown Inertially Stabilized Platforms Considering Light Base Support Characteristics
Authors: Wang Zhongshi , Tian Dapeng , Shi Lei , Liu Jinghong
Published: October 2020

The dynamics model used for inertially or strapdown inertially stabilized platforms is based on the rotor and motor load, and it either does not consider the stator or it implicitly assumes a fixed stator. It has been determined that vibrations occur in the system when a controller is used in strapdown inertially stabilized platforms with a light base support. As the system is also affected by multi-source disturbances, which are the main factors that affect the control accuracy. For the above two problems, this paper originally establishes a multi-body dynamics model including the controller. The composite controller not only suppresses the vibration successfully, but also greatly improves the disturbance compensation and tracking performance of the strapdown inertially stabilized platforms. Specifically, a modified feedback controller is used to suppress the vibrations analyzed according to the dynamics model. The friction feedforward and residual disturbance observer facilitates the design of compound disturbance compensation on the basis of composite hierarchical anti-disturbance control. To emphasize the advantages of strapdown inertially stabilized platforms, the feedforward controller employs feedforward angular velocity and acceleration. The results of the numerical analysis and experiments indicate that vibrations are successfully suppressed and tracking accuracy and disturbance isolation ability are improved.
Optimal Coordination of PV Active Power Curtailment and EVs Charging among Aggregators
Authors: Cortés Borray Andrés Felipe , Merino Julia , Torres Esther , Mazón Javier
Published: October 2020

With the growing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and residential photovoltaic (PV) systems around the world, the distribution system operators (DSOs) are facing several technical challenges on their network planning and operation, particularly on low-voltage grids. As the aggregators are intermediary actors at that system level, they are a promising figure to coordinate these devices in an aggregated manner to help to mitigate adverse effects like overloading of network assets. However, to do so, proper coordination techniques among these entities and the DSO should be developed to avoid further investments in new network assets. In this context, a centralised coordination strategy among aggregators at the DSO level is proposed. By employing a linear programming model, the optimal export limit of PV and charging profile for each aggregator is dictated by the DSO, maintaining the operational limits of the network assets. A case study on two aggregators with moderate and critical penetration levels was carried out. Results show that, by controlling the aggregated export limit of PV power and the aggregated charging rate of EVs, high penetration levels can be integrated into current networks with minor or no need for reinforcing network infrastructure.
Clinical Role of Newly Developed ALBI and mALBI Grades for Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hiraoka Atsushi , Kumada Takashi
Published: October 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a leading cause of death worldwide. The selection of therapeutic modalities and the prognosis of affected patients are well known to be dependent not only on the tumor burden but also on the hepatic reserve function. Antiviral treatments for chronic hepatitis related to a viral infection and an increase in cases of nonviral HCC associated with the aging of society have resulted in dramatic changes regarding the characteristics of HCC patients. With recent developments in therapeutic modalities for HCC, a more detailed assessment of hepatic function has become an important need. Studies in which the relationship of albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade with the prognosis of HCC patients was investigated were reviewed in order to evaluate the usefulness of newly developed ALBI and modified ALBI (mALBI) grades for HCC treatment, as those scoring methods are considered helpful for predicting the prognosis and selecting therapeutic modalities based on the expected prognosis.
Experimental Assessment on Exploiting Low Carbon Ethanol Fuel in a Light-Duty Dual-Fuel Compression Ignition Engine
Authors: Beatrice Carlo , Denbratt Ingemar , Di Blasio Gabriele , Di Luca Giuseppe , Ianniello Roberto , Saccullo Michael
Published: October 2020

Compression ignition (CI) engines are widely used in modern society, but they are also recognized as a significative source of harmful and human hazard emissions such as particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). Moreover, the combustion of fossil fuels is related to the growing amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, such as carbon dioxide (CO2). Stringent emission regulatory programs, the transition to cleaner and more advanced powertrains and the use of lower carbon fuels are driving forces for the improvement of diesel engines in terms of overall efficiency and engine-out emissions. Ethanol, a light alcohol and lower carbon fuel, is a promising alternative fuel applicable in the dual-fuel (DF) combustion mode to mitigate CO2 and also engine-out PM emissions. In this context, this work aims to assess the maximum fuel substitution ratio (FSR) and the impact on CO2 and PM emissions of different nozzle holes number injectors, 7 and 9, in the DF operating mode. The analysis was conducted within engine working constraints and considered the influence on maximum FSR of calibration parameters, such as combustion phasing, rail pressure, injection pattern and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The experimental tests were carried out on a single-cylinder light-duty CI engine with ethanol introduced via port fuel injection (PFI) and direct injection of diesel in two operating points, 1500 and 2000 rpm and at 5 and 8 bar of brake mean effective pressure (BMEP), respectively. Noise and the coefficient of variation in indicated mean effective pressure (COVIMEP) limits have been chosen as practical constraints. In particular, the experimental analysis assesses for each parameter or their combination the highest ethanol fraction that can be injected. To discriminate the effect on ethanol fraction and the combustion process of each parameter, a one-at-a-time-factor approach was used. The results show that, in both operating points, the EGR reduces the maximum ethanol fraction injectable; nevertheless, the ethanol addition leads to outstanding improvement in terms of engine-out PM. The adoption of a 9 hole diesel injector, for lower load, allows reaching a higher fraction of ethanol in all test conditions with an improvement in combustion noise, on average 3 dBA, while near-zero PM emissions and a reduction can be noticed, on the average of 1 g/kWh, and CO2 compared with the fewer nozzle holes case. Increasing the load insensitivity to different holes number was observed.
Software-Defined Radio Beamforming System for 5G/Radar Applications
Authors: Marinho Diogo , Arruela Raul , Varum Tiago , Matos João N.
Published: October 2020

Based on the flexibility of software-defined radio (SDR) techniques applied to an array of antennas, this article presents a beamforming architecture designed to operate in millimeter-wave bands (28 GHz), with possible applications in radar and 5G systems. The system structure, including its main constituents such as the radio frequency (RF) frontend modules, the radiating elements as well as the baseband processing on the host computer are widely described. Beamforming is achieved by digitally controlling the signals that feed the antennas. The experimental measurements performed in an anechoic chamber validate the proposed approach.
An Improved Investigation into the Effects of the Temperature-Dependent Parasitic Elements on the Losses of SiC MOSFETs
Authors: Zeng Yinong , Yi Yingping , Liu Pu
Published: October 2020

This paper presents an improved investigation into the effects of temperature-dependent parasitic elements on the silicon carbide (SiC) MOSFET power losses. Based on the physical knowledge of MOSFET, a circuit-level loss analytical model is proposed, which takes the parasitic elements of the power devices and the stray inductances of the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) traces into consideration. The state equations derived from the equivalent circuit of each stage is solved by iteration to calculate the loss in the switching transients. In order to study the temperature characteristic completely, the key parameters needed in the calculation are extracted from power device test platform based on Agilent B1505A. The loss assessment of the proposed analytical model with varied elements has been successfully substantiated by the experimental results of a 400-V, 15-A double-pulse-test bench. Finally, some practical knowledge about loss mechanisms is given to help estimate the power losses and optimize the efficiency of power converters.
Factors Contributing to Increased Blast Overpressure Inside Modern Ballistic Helmets
Authors: Skotak Maciej , Salib Jonathan , Misistia Anthony , Cardenas Arturo , Alay Eren , Chandra Namas , Kamimori Gary H.
Published: October 2020

This study demonstrates the orientation and the "shape factor" have pronounced effects on the development of the localized pressure fields inside of the helmet. We used anatomically accurate headform to evaluate four modern combat helmets under blast loading conditions in the shock tube. The Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) is used to capture the effect of the orientation on pressure under the helmet. The three modern combat helmets: Enhanced Combat Helmet (ECH), Ops-Core, and Airframe, were tested in frontal orientation to determine the effect of helmet geometry. Using the unhelmeted headform data as a reference, we characterized pressure distribution inside each helmet and identified pressure focal points. The nature of these localized “hot spots” is different than the elevated pressure in the parietal region of the headform under the helmet widely recognized as the under-wash effect also observed in our tests. It is the first experimental study which indicates that the helmet presence increased the pressure experienced by the eyes and the forehead (glabella). Pressure fingerprinting using an array of sensors combined with the application of principle component analysis (PCA) helped elucidate the subtle differences between helmets.
The Behavior of a Thread-Bar Grouted Anchor in Soils from Local Strain Monitoring
Authors: Ruggeri Paolo , Fruzzetti Viviene M. E. , Scarpelli Giuseppe
Published: October 2020

International standards discourage the use of grouted anchors with a fixed length exceeding 10 m. However, grouted anchors with a fixed length between 10 and 20 m are frequently used in Italy to transfer high loads to ground with poor geotechnical properties. This paper presents the results of investigation tests on an anchor with a length of 36 m, of which 18 m is fixed, sloping 40° from the horizontal; the anchor is comprised of a reinforced thread-bar which was instrumented with strain gauges and founded in nonhomogeneous ground, a sand deposit followed by marly clay. The test aimed at investigating the progressive mobilization of the shear strength along the foundation. The results indicate a very low shear strength offered by the sand, probably disturbed by the drilling, and an unusually fast mobilization of the shear strength in the marly clay at the deep end of the anchor. The results are particularly useful to identify the reasons for the observed poor performance of the grouted anchor. In particular, the study once again made it clear how important the influence of the execution details on reaching the expected load capacity may be, and likewise the practice of investigation tests on suitably instrumented test anchors.