bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A DESCRIPTION OF ORAL AND SWALLOWING CHARACTERISTICS IN PEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASES
Authors: KILINÇ Hasan Erkan , ALEMDAROĞLU İpek , BULUT Numan , SEREL ARSLAN Selen , KARADUMAN Aynur Ayşe , TUNCA Öznur
Published: September 2020

Objective:The aim of our study was to put forth the existing problems about oral structure/function and swallowing function in patients who have different pediatric nuromuscular diseases (NMD’s).

Methods:Fourty five pediatric patients with NMD’s aged 10.22±3.32 years old were included in the study. Oral intake levels of patients were determined with Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Oral structural and functional examination, assesment of complaints related to swallowing problems, and three ounce water swallow test were perfomed to all patients.

Reseults: In oral assessment, structural problems were determined at varying rates between 13.3% and 46.6%, problems related to oral functions between %4.4 and 26.6%, and complaints related to swallowing problems between 11.1% to 33.3%. Five patients (%11) were failed in three ounce water swallow test.

Conclusion:The findings related to oral structure/function and swallowing function indicate a risk of swallowing dysfunction with different symptoms and problems in NMD’s. These symptoms may result in life-threatening complications added to their current neuromuscular problems.

Keywords: Swallowing, Oral Examination, Aspiration Pneumonia
‘All Ears’: A Questionnaire of 1516 Owner Perceptions of the Mental Abilities of Pet Rabbits, Subsequent Resource Provision, and the Effect on Welfare
Authors: McMahon Sarah A. , Wigham Ellie
Published: September 2020

Pet rabbit welfare is a hidden crisis: Inappropriately housed, fed, and not routinely provided healthcare—rabbits can often suffer painful conditions and shortened lifespans. This study provides novel understanding of owners’ perceptions of rabbits’ mental capabilities; how this impacts their husbandry; and subsequent effects on rabbits’ welfare. A survey was designed to investigate owner and rabbit demographics, owner perception of rabbits, resources provided, and rabbit behavior. Distributed online and by the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund, the survey received 1516 responses. It was found that increased owner perceptions of pain, emotions, and intelligence resulted in increased likelihood of providing a partner, increased enrichment variation, and a more appropriate diet and type of housing. Welfare scores were associated with diet, housing, variety of enrichment, and time spent with owners. These results suggest that a practical approach to improving the welfare standard provided to rabbits may be to target improving owner perceptions of the species’ intelligence, emotionality, and experience of pain. This information would be beneficial in tailoring public education programs to increase provision of welfare enhancing resources, improve the human–animal relationship, and thus improve the welfare standards for this species.
Transcriptomics of the Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) Species Complex
Authors: Stander Emily Amor , Williams Wesley , Mgwatyu Yamkela , Heusden Peter van , Rautenbach Fanie , Marnewick Jeanine , Roes-Hill Marilize Le , Hesse Uljana
Published: September 2020

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), widely known as a herbal tea, is endemic to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa (SA). It produces a wide range of phenolic compounds that have been associated with diverse health promoting properties of the plant. The species comprises several growth forms that differ in their morphology and biochemical composition, only one of which is cultivated and used commercially. Here, we established methodologies for non-invasive transcriptome research of wild-growing South African plant species, including (1) harvesting and transport of plant material suitable for RNA sequencing; (2) inexpensive, high-throughput biochemical sample screening; (3) extraction of high-quality RNA from recalcitrant, polysaccharide- and polyphenol rich plant material; and (4) biocomputational analysis of Illumina sequencing data, together with the evaluation of programs for transcriptome assembly (Trinity, IDBA-Trans, SOAPdenovo-Trans, CLC), protein prediction, as well as functional and taxonomic transcript annotation. In the process, we established a biochemically characterized sample pool from 44 distinct rooibos ecotypes (1–5 harvests) and generated four in-depth annotated transcriptomes (each comprising on average ≈86,000 transcripts) from rooibos plants that represent distinct growth forms and differ in their biochemical profiles. These resources will serve future rooibos research and plant breeding endeavours.
Impact of Polypharmacy for Chronic Ailments in Colon Cancer Patients: A Review Focused on Drug Repurposing
Authors: Giampieri Riccardo , Cantini Luca , Giglio Enrica , Bittoni Alessandro , Lanese Andrea , Crocetti Sonia , Pecci Federica , Copparoni Cecilia , Meletani Tania , Lenci Edoardo , Lupi Alessio , Baleani Maria Giuditta , Berardi Rossana
Published: September 2020

Colorectal cancer is characterized by high incidence worldwide. Despite increased awareness and early diagnosis thanks to screening programmes, mortality remains high, particularly for patients with metastatic involvement. Immune checkpoint inhibitors or poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP)-inhibitors have met with disappointing results when used in this setting, opposed to other malignancies. New drugs with different mechanisms of action are needed in this disease. Drug repurposing might offer new therapeutic options, as patients with metastatic colorectal cancer often share risk factors for other chronic diseases and thus frequently are on incidental therapy with these drugs. The aim of this review is to summarise the published results of the activity of drugs used to treat chronic medications in patients affected by colorectal cancer. We focused on antihypertensive drugs, Non-Steroid Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), metformin, antidepressants, statins and antibacterial antibiotics. Our review shows that there are promising results with beta blockers, statins and metformin, whereas data concerning antidepressants and antibacterial antibiotics seem to show a potentially harmful effect. It is hoped that further prospective trials that take into account the role of these drugs as anticancer medications are conducted.
The Absence of NLRP3-inflammasome Modulates Hepatic Fibrosis Progression, Lipid Metabolism, and Inflammation in KO NLRP3 Mice during Aging
Authors: Gallego Paloma , Castejón-Vega Beatriz , del Campo José A. , Cordero Mario D.
Published: September 2020

Aging is associated with metabolic changes and low-grade inflammation in several organs, which may be due to NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Methods: Here, we asked whether age-related liver changes such as lipid metabolism and fibrosis are reduced in aged mice lacking the NLRP3 inflammasome. We report reduced protein levels of lipid markers (MTP, FASN, DGAT1), SOD activity, oxidative stress marker PTPRG, and the fibrotic markers TPM2β, COL1-α1 associated with increased GATA4, in NLRP3 deficient mice. Fibrotic, lipid, and oxidative reduction in liver tissues of mice was more pronounced in those old KO NLRP3 mice than in the younger ones, despite their greater liver damage. These results suggest that absence of the NLRP3 inflammasome attenuates age-related liver fibrotic pathology in mice, suggesting that pharmacological targeting may be beneficial.
Emidec: A Database Usable for the Automatic Evaluation of Myocardial Infarction from Delayed-Enhancement Cardiac MRI
Authors: Lalande Alain , Chen Zhihao , Decourselle Thomas , Qayyum Abdul , Pommier Thibaut , Lorgis Luc , de la Rosa Ezequiel , Cochet Alexandre , Cottin Yves , Ginhac Dominique , Salomon Michel , Couturier Raphaël , Meriaudeau Fabrice
Published: September 2020

One crucial parameter to evaluate the state of the heart after myocardial infarction (MI) is the viability of the myocardial segment, i.e., if the segment recovers its functionality upon revascularization. MRI performed several minutes after the injection of a contrast agent (delayed enhancement-MRI or DE-MRI) is a method of choice to evaluate the extent of MI, and by extension, to assess viable tissues after an injury. The Emidec dataset is composed of a series of exams with DE-MR images in short axis orientation covering the left ventricle from normal cases or patients with myocardial infarction, with the contouring of the myocardium and diseased areas (if present) from experts in the domains. Moreover, classical available clinical parameters when the patient is managed by an emergency department are provided for each case. To the best of our knowledge, the Emidec dataset is the first one where annotated DE-MRI are combined with clinical characteristics of the patient, allowing the development of methodologies for exam classification as for exam quantification.
The Integration of Vacuum Insulated Glass in Unitized Façade for the Development of Innovative Lightweight and Highly Insulating Energy Efficient Building Envelope—The Results of Eensulate Façade System Design
Authors: Pracucci Alessandro , Magnani Sara , Casadei Oscar
Published: September 2020

The European Commission has identified the building industry as one of the key sectors to achieve its 2020 strategy to create conditions for smart, sustainable, and inclusive growth. In this frame, the aim of Horizon 2020′s Eensulate project is the development of innovative lightweight and highly insulating energy efficient unitized building façades, suitable for both new and existing buildings. The Eensulate façade module integrates two components developed within the project: Vacuum Insulated Glass (VIG) for architectural purposes, with a U-value of 0.3 W/sqm∙K; a highly insulating foam for automated manufacturing and insulation for the spandrel part. This article presents the Eensulate façade system design simulations and achievements related to VIG integration to solve issues that emerged by the utilization of its innovative components (sealant thermal bridge and getter strips). VIG design and testing have gradually changed the façade module and consequently, façade components have been progressively designed to achieve the expected target of 0.641 W/sqm∙K for thermal transmittance. The results demonstrate that the target can be achieved by aluminum profiles, Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) thermal bridge, and additional insulating components, obtaining a new product for unitized façades able to reduce energy consumption in buildings with large glass surfaces.
Prognostic Value of Severity Score Change for Septic Shock in the Emergency Room
Authors: Hwang Tae Sik , Park Hyun Woo , Park Ha Young , Park Young Sook
Published: September 2020

The vital signs or laboratory test results of sepsis patients may change before clinical deterioration. This study examined the differences in prognostic performance when systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA), quick SOFA (qSOFA) scores, National Early Warning Score (NEWS), and lactate levels were repeatedly measured. Scores were obtained at arrival to triage, 1 h after fluid resuscitation, 1 h after vasopressor prescription, and before leaving the emergency room (ER) in 165 patients with septic shock. The relationships between score changes and in-hospital mortality, mechanical ventilation, admission to the intensive care unit, and mortality within seven days were compared using areas under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCs). Scores measured before leaving the ER had the highest AUROCs across all variables (SIRS score 0.827 [0.737–0.917], qSOFA score 0.754 [0.627–0.838], NEWS 0.888 [0.826–0.950], SOFA score 0.835 [0.766–0.904], and lactate 0.872 [0.805–0.939]). When combined, SIRS + lactate (0.882 [0.804–0.960]), qSOFA + lactate (0.872 [0.808–0.935]), NEWS + lactate (0.909 [0.855–0.963]), and SOFA + lactate (0.885 [0.832–0.939]) showed improved AUROCs. In patients with septic shock, scoring systems show better predictive performances at the timepoints reflecting changes in vital signs and laboratory test results than at the time of arrival, and combining them with lactate values increases their predictive powers.
Modeling User Reputation in Online Social Networks: The Role of Costs, Benefits, and Reciprocity
Authors: Schweitzer Frank , Mavrodiev Pavlin , Seufert Adrian M. , Garcia David
Published: September 2020

We analyze an agent-based model to estimate how the costs and benefits of users in an online social network (OSN) impact the robustness of the OSN. Benefits are measured in terms of relative reputation that users receive from their followers. They can be increased by direct and indirect reciprocity in following each other, which leads to a core-periphery structure of the OSN. Costs relate to the effort to login, to maintain the profile, etc. and are assumed as constant for all users. The robustness of the OSN depends on the entry and exit of users over time. Intuitively, one would expect that higher costs lead to more users leaving and hence to a less robust OSN. We demonstrate that an optimal cost level exists, which maximizes both the performance of the OSN, measured by means of the long-term average benefit of its users, and the robustness of the OSN, measured by means of the lifetime of the core of the OSN. Our mathematical and computational analyses unfold how changes in the cost level impact reciprocity and subsequently the core-periphery structure of the OSN, to explain the optimal cost level.
Experimental Study on Thermal Response Characteristics of Indoor Environment with Modular Radiant Cooling System
Authors: Li Zhengrong , Zhang Dongkai , Li Cui
Published: September 2020

The radiant cooling system has a substantial energy-saving effect and can be widely applied in different kinds of low-energy buildings. This article reports the experimental study of the design strategy of the radiant cooling system in low-energy buildings from the perspective of thermal response characteristics of an indoor environment. Two types of a modular radiant cooling system, namely, the copper tube radiant cooling (CTRC) and the capillary radiant cooling (CRC) systems, were investigated. The experiments were conducted in two office rooms characterized by low energy consumption. In total, 16 cases (eight for CTRC and eight for CRC) were analyzed, covering supply water temperature with a range of 12–19 °C. The experimental results show that the supply water temperature has a more substantial effect on the temperature distribution of the envelope for CTRC, than that of CRC. The indoor air temperature stratification is acceptable in the active area of the occupant with a modular radiant cooling system. Moreover, the thermal response of the envelope is highly sensitive to the lower supply water temperature (below 16 °C) using CTRC and to the higher supply water temperature (above 15 °C) using CRC. The low supply water temperature (below 15 °C) can improve the thermal stability speed of indoor air to a greater degree using CTRC, than that of CRC. The supply water temperature for CTRC with 15–16 °C, and 18–19 °C for CRC in low-energy buildings can exert an optimal cooling benefit.
Model Predictive Virtual Synchronous Control of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator-Based Wind Power System
Authors: Sun Yusheng , Zhao Yaqian , Dou Zhifeng , Li Yanyan , Guo Leilei
Published: September 2020

As much wind power is integrated into the power grid through power electronic equipment, the use of wind power is increased rapidly. Wind power system makes the power grid lack inertia and damping, thereby reducing power grid stability; in severe cases, it may even be disconnected. virtual synchronous generator (VSG) has been put forward to enhance the anti-disturbance performance of power grid. However, conventional VSG adopts an outer power loop and inner-current loop control. The inner-current loop control needs a pulse width modulation (PWM) module and proportion integration (PI) parameter settings. In order to reduce the parameter settings and simplify control structures, in this study, model predictive control (MPC) is used instead of inner-current loop control. At the same time—for the overall stability and control flexibility of the back-to-back system—we further propose to use outer-voltage loop control (OVLC) and MPC to stabilize direct current (DC) voltage on the machine-side and to employ model predictive virtual synchronous controls to provide inertia and damping for the power grid. The proposed control method was simulated in Matlab/Simulink (MathWorks, Massachusetts, MA, 2016) and verified by experimental results.
A Novel Approach to the Analysis of Thermal Response Test (TRT) with Interrupted Power Input
Authors: Luo Jin , Zhang Yuhao , Tuo Jiasheng , Xue Wei , Rohn Joachim , Baumgärtel Sebastian
Published: September 2020

The quality of measuring datasets of the thermal response test (TRT) significantly influences the interpretation of borehole thermal parameters (BTP). A thermal response test with an unstable power input may induce an unacceptable error in the estimation of the borehole thermal parameters. This paper proposes a novel approach to treat the dataset with interrupted power input. In this approach, the test records were segmented into several subsections with a constant time interval of 100 min, 60 min, and 30 min, separately. The quality of each data section was assessed and analyzed. Then, two algorithms, including the continuous algorithm and semi-superposition algorithm, were developed. The results estimated by the linear source model (LSM) were compared with one Thermal response test datasets with a stable power input at the same testing site. It shows that the effects of power interruption during the test can be effectively mitigated by deploying both the continuous and semi-superposition methods. The lowest deviation of the calculated thermal conductivity to a thermal response test with stable power input was 2.8% in the continuous method and 0.9% using the semi-superposition method. Thus, the proposed approaches are effective measures to mitigate the effects of interrupted power input on the interpretation of the thermal properties of the ground.
Early Flare Root Development on Nursery Field-Grown Seedling Stock
Authors: Watson Gary W. , Hewitt Angela M.
Published: September 2020

Field production of seedlings used to create nursery stock liners involves transplanting and root pruning that can alter root system architecture. Seedlings of eight species of trees commonly used in urban landscapes were selected based on the configuration of their woody lateral roots; Preferred (maximum gap between roots ≤90 degrees), Acceptable (maximum gap 120–150 degrees), and Inferior (≥180 degree gap—no lateral roots on one side). The lateral root configuration (LRC) of the seedlings was compared to the LRC one year after replanting. The number of lateral or regenerated roots alone was generally adequate to form an acceptable root flare (≥3 roots) one year after seedlings were replanted. The maximum gap in lateral roots as a seedling was not consistent with the maximum gap one year after the seedlings were replanted in most species. It often became larger. Neither lateral roots nor regenerated roots alone could reliably produce a root structure with an acceptable maximum gap between roots. Lateral roots and roots regenerated from the pruned end of the main root, together produced enough flare roots one year after replanting with a small enough maximum gap in the radial distribution for good stability. This information may be an initial step in developing criteria for seedling grading systems that will improve root systems of nursery stock grown for planting in urban landscapes.
Cost of Reasoning and Strategic Sophistication
Authors: Zhao Wanqun
Published: September 2020

I designed an experiment to study the persistence of the prevailing levels of reasoning across games. Instead of directly comparing the k-level(s) of reasoning for each game, I used cognitive load to manipulate the strategic environment by imposing variations on the subject’s cost of reasoning and their first- and second-order beliefs. Subjects have systematic changes in k-level(s) of reasoning across games. That finding suggests that subjects are responsive to changes in the strategic environment. Changes in k-level(s) of reasoning are mostly consistent with the endogenous depth of reasoning model when subjects are more cognitively capable or facing less cognitively capable opponents. Subjects have cognitive bounds, but often choose a lower-type action due to their beliefs about their opponents. Finally, cognitive ability plays a significant role in subjects making strategic adjustments when facing different strategic environments.
Change of Title: Bloods Becomes Hemato
Authors: Roth Peter
Published: September 2020

Since January 2020, when the journal Bloods—the International Open Access Journal of Hematology—was founded, we have published six papers [...]
Municipal Residence Level of Long-Term PM10 Exposure Associated with Obesity among Young Adults in Seoul, Korea
Authors: Kim Jayeun , Yoon Kyuhyun
Published: September 2020

Background: long-term effects of ambient pollutants used to be defined in cohort studies using biomarkers. Health effects on young adults from long-term exposure to particulate matters (PM) in residential ambiance have received less attention. Methods: using the data of population-representative aged 19–29 in Seoul, the relationship between obesity and PM10 levels of the living district was examined. We defined obesity as Body Mass Index (BMI) 25 kg/m2 and more. Survey logistic regression was conducted according to individual residence periods in the current municipality. Individual characteristics were adjusted overall and were age-specific; aged 19–24 and 25–29. Results: study population was 3655 (1680 (46%) men and 1933 aged 19–24 (52.9%)) individuals. Relationship between length of residence in municipalities with a greater level of PM10 from 2001–2005 and obesity was increased over the residing period; 10 years ≤ (odds ratio (OR) 1.071, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.969–1.185), 15 years ≤ (1.120, 1.006–1.247), and 20 years ≤ (1.158, 1.034–1.297) in aged 19–29. Age-specific effects showed slight differences. Conclusions: Although PM10 levels are currently decreasing, higher levels of PM10 exposure in the residential area during the earlier lifetime may contribute to obesity increase among young adults.
Functions of Small Organic Compounds that Mimic the HNK-1 Glycan
Authors: Wang Minjuan , Theis Thomas , Kabat Maciej , Loers Gabriele , Agre Lynn A. , Schachner Melitta
Published: September 2020

Because of the importance of the HNK-1 carbohydrate for preferential motor reinnervation after injury of the femoral nerve in mammals, we screened NIH Clinical Collection 1 and 2 Libraries and a Natural Product library comprising small organic compounds for identification of pharmacologically useful reagents. The reason for this attempt was to obviate the difficult chemical synthesis of the HNK-1 carbohydrate and its isolation from natural sources, with the hope to render such compounds clinically useful. We identified six compounds that enhanced neurite outgrowth from cultured spinal motor neurons at nM concentrations and increased their neurite diameter, but not their neurite branch points. Axons of dorsal root ganglion neurons did not respond to these compounds, a feature that is in agreement with their biological role after injury. We refer to the positive functions of some of these compounds in animal models of injury and delineate the intracellular signaling responses elicited by application of compounds to cultured murine central nervous system neurons. Altogether, these results point to the potential of the HNK-1 carbohydrate mimetics in clinically-oriented settings.
Molecular Mapping and Genomics of Grain Yield in Durum Wheat: A Review
Authors: Arriagada Osvin , Marcotuli Ilaria , Gadaleta Agata , Schwember Andrés R.
Published: September 2020

Durum wheat is the most relevant cereal for the whole of Mediterranean agriculture, due to its intrinsic adaptation to dryland and semi-arid environments and to its strong historical cultivation tradition. It is not only relevant for the primary production sector, but also for the food industry chains associated with it. In Mediterranean environments, wheat is mostly grown under rainfed conditions and the crop is frequently exposed to environmental stresses, with high temperatures and water scarcity especially during the grain filling period. For these reasons, and due to recurrent disease epidemics, Mediterranean wheat productivity often remains under potential levels. Many studies, using both linkage analysis (LA) and a genome-wide association study (GWAS), have identified the genomic regions controlling the grain yield and the associated markers that can be used for marker-assisted selection (MAS) programs. Here, we have summarized all the current studies identifying quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and/or candidate genes involved in the main traits linked to grain yield: kernel weight, number of kernels per spike and number of spikes per unit area.
Rho GTPase ROP1 Interactome Analysis Reveals Novel ROP1-Associated Pathways for Pollen Tube Polar Growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Hui , Hu Jinbo , Pang Jing , Zhao Liangtao , Yang Bing , Kang Xinlei , Wang Aimin , Xu Tongda , Yang Zhenbiao
Published: September 2020

ROP (Rho-like GTPases from plants) GTPases are polarly localized key regulators of polar growth in pollen tubes and other cells in plants. However, how ROP GTPases are regulated and how they control polar growth remains to be fully understood. To gain new insights into ROP-dependent mechanisms underlying polar cell growth, we characterized the interactome of ROP1 GTPase that controls Arabidopsis pollen tube (PT) tip growth, an extreme form of polar cell growth. We established an efficient method for culturing Arabidopsis pollen tubes in liquid medium, which was used for immunoprecipitation/mass spectrometry-based identification of ROP1-associated proteins. A total of 654 candidates were isolated from the ROP1 interactome in Arabidopsis pollen tubes, and GO (Gene Ontology) classification and pathway analysis revealed multiple uncharacterized ROP1-dependent processes including translation, cell wall modification, post transcriptional modification, and ion homeostasis, in addition to known ROP1-dependent pathways. The ROP1-interactome data was further supported by the co-expression of the candidate interactors in highly mature pollen with PT germination and growth defects being discovered in 25% (8/32) of the candidate mutant genes. Taken together, our work uncovers valuable information for the identification and functional elucidation of ROP-associated proteins in the regulation of polar growth, and provides a reliable reference to identify critical regulators of polar cell growth in the future.
Aerodynamic and Aeroelastic Effects of Design-Based Geometry Variations on a Low-Pressure Compressor
Authors: Eggers Torben , Kim Hye Rim , Bittner Simon , Friedrichs Jens , Seume Joerg R.
Published: September 2020

In modern aircraft engines, the low-pressure compressor (LPC) is subjected to a flow characterized by strong wakes and secondary flows from the upstream fan. This concerns ultra-high bypass ratio (UHBR) turbofan engines, in particular. This paper presents the aerodynamic and aeroelastic sensitivities of parametric variations on the LPC, driven by the design considerations in the upstream fan. The goal of this investigation was to determine the influence of design-based geometry parameter variations on the LPC performance under realistic inlet flow distributions and the presence of an s-duct. Aerodynamic simulations are conducted at the design and off-design operating points with the fan outflow as the inlet boundary conditions. Based on the aerodynamic results, time-linearized unsteady simulations are conducted to evaluate the vibration amplitude at the resonance operating points. First, the bypass ratio is varied by reducing the channel height of the LPC. The LPC efficiency decreases by up to 1.7% due to the increase in blockage of the core flow. The forced response amplitude of the rotor decreases with increasing bypass ratio due to increased aerodynamic damping. Secondly, the fan cavity leakage flow is considered as it directly affects the near hub fan flow and thus the inflow of the LPC. This results in an increased total-pressure loss for the s-duct due to mixing losses. The additional mixing redistributes the flow at the s-duct exit leading to a total-pressure loss reduction of 4.3% in the first rotor at design point. This effect is altered at off-design conditions. The vibration amplitude at low speed resonance points is increased by 19% for the first torsion and 26% for second bending. Thirdly, sweep and lean are applied to the inlet guide vane (IGV) upstream of the LPC. Despite the s-duct and the variable inlet guide vane (VIGV) affecting the flow, the three-dimensional blade design achieves aerodynamic and aeroelastic improvements of rotor 1 at off-design. The total-pressure loss reduces by up to 18% and the resonance amplitude more than 10%. Only negligible improvements for rotor 1 are present at the design point. In a fourth step, the influence of axial gap size between the stator and the rotor rows in the LPC is examined in the range of small variations which shows no distinct aerodynamic and aeroelastic sensitivities. This finding not only supports previous studies, but it also suggests a correlation between mode shapes and locally increased excitaion with increasing axial gap size. As a result, potential design improvements in future fan-compressor design are suggested.
Good to Excellent Functional Short-Term Outcome and Low Revision Rates Following Primary Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair Using Suture Augmentation
Authors: Schneider Kristian Nikolaus , Schliemann Benedikt , Gosheger Georg , Theil Christoph , Weller Jan , Buddhdev Pranai K , Ahlbäumer Georg
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of primary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair using suture augmentation (SA) in 93 consecutive patients (67 female) with a minimum follow-up of 12 months. Patients’ outcomes were determined using International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score (LS) and Tegner score (TS). Knee-laxity was assessed using the KT-1000 arthrometer. Eighty-eight patients (67 female, mean age 42 years ± standard deviation (SD) 13) were available for follow-up after a mean time of 21 months (range 12–39). Three patients (3%) underwent revision surgery and were excluded from functional analysis. The mean IKDC score was 87.4 ± 11, mean LS was 92.6 ± 11, mean pre-traumatic TS was 6 ± 2 and mean postoperative TS was 6 ± 2, with a mean difference (TSDiff) of 1 ± 1. The interval from injury to surgery had no significant impact on the postoperative IKDC (p = 0.228), LS (p = 0.377) and TSDiff (p = 0.572). Patients’ age (>40 years), BMI (>30) and coexisting ligament or meniscal injuries did not seem to influence postoperative functional results. Primary ACL repair using SA provides good to excellent functional outcomes with a low probability of revision surgery at a minimum of 12 months.
Performance of Noise Reduction and Skid Resistance of Durable Granular Ultra-Thin Layer Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Li Wei , Han Sen , Huang Qibo
Published: September 2020

In this paper, the ultra-thin layer (UTL) is defined as the dense framework structure mixture made of asphalt binder, fine aggregate with nominal maximum aggregate size (NMAS) not greater than 13.2 mm and possible additives (mineral or organic), thickness of 2–4 cm. The study aims to investigate comprehensive performance of UTL asphalt mixture. The method of impact freeze thaw split test and the index of impact freeze–thawing damage degree (IFTDD) are proposed to reflect the durability. The indoor tire-rolling-down test system and accelerated abrasion machine are used to simulate the tire-pavement interaction and test road noise and skid resistance, respectively. Though evaluating the influencing factors (pavement thickness, gradation, asphalt binder type, and the content of KS additive) on durability, the optimum parameters with excellent durability are recommended. Combined with the test of noise and skid resistance, the factors affecting the surface function are analyzed. Moreover, the prediction mathematical model of skid resistance and the long-term safety benefit value Eeff are put forward. Results indicate that pavement thickness is the most significant factor effecting on durability, and gradation is the most significant factor affecting noise. Compared with KS additive, gradation has a greater influence on skid resistance index of Texture Depth (TD), whereas, KS additive is the most significant factor affecting British Pendulum Number (BPN). Furthermore, with the addition of asphalt rubber (AR), IFTDD and noise are reduced by 29.17% and 1.6 dB, and BPN and TD increase by 0.7 and 0.03 mm, remarkably. Compared with different asphalt types, the noise of UTL asphalt rubber mixture with 13.2 mm NMAS (UTL13 AR) is the lowest. Additionally, when KS content increases by 0.6%, the noise increases by 3 dB. Furthermore, on the basis of the calculation results of Eeff, UTL13 AR mixture with 0.5% KS has the best long-term benefit of pavement safety and is recommended for field project.
Post-Delivery Milking Delay Influence on the Effect of Oral Supplementation with Bovine Colostrum as Measured with Intestinal Permeability Test
Authors: Hałasa Maciej , Maciejewska-Markiewicz Dominika , Baśkiewicz-Hałasa Magdalena , Safranow Krzysztof , Stachowska Ewa
Published: September 2020

Background and objective: The health supplement bovine colostrum reportedly improves immunity and regulates intestinal homeostasis. Reliable assessment methods are needed to ensure the satisfactory biological activity of all marketed colostrum products. Of the well-established effects of colostrum use, the restoration of appropriate intestinal permeability assessed with the lactulose/mannitol (L/M) differential sugar absorption test upon supplementation with colostrum has been consistently observed. Milking time after delivery is one of the factors that influences the composition of bovine colostrum, which causes a rapid decrease in bioactive components. Materials and methods: We use the L/M test to evaluate the intestinal permeability reduction upon supplementation with colostrum (2 × 500 mg) harvested at various times after delivery (2, 24, and 72 h) or a placebo (whey). In our randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled (DBPC) trial, 31 healthy athletes were divided into four groups and assessed at baseline and after the intervention. Results: The trial revealed that only colostrum collected after 2 h and 24 h caused a significant reduction of intestinal permeability. The comparison of post-intervention vs. baseline Δ values produced statistically significant results for 2 h colostrum versus the placebo and 72 h colostrum groups. Conclusions: We conclude that the change of bovine colostrum composition over the first three days of lactation is accompanied by a decrease in its biological activity as measured with the L/M test. This test may offer a biological quality measure for colostrum.
Publisher’s Note: Continued Publication of Pathophysiology, the Official Journal of the International Society of Pathophysiology, by MDPI
Authors: Vazquez Franck
Published: September 2020

Pathophysiology (ISSN 0928-4680) was launched in 1994 and has been published during the past 26 years by Elsevier [...]
Mediatization of Religion: Three Dimensions from a Latin American/Brazilian Perspective
Authors: Martino Luis Mauro Sá
Published: September 2020

Research on the mediatization of religion seems to have become a major issue both for Social Sciences and Media Studies, although some core questions concerning its definitions and characteristics are still open to debate. This paper addresses some of these interrogations from a Latin American/Brazilian perspective, taking into the account some of the particular perspectives of the region. It draws on previous studies, combined with contemporary cases, to outline an overview of mediatization, as it has been studied by some Latin American scholars, in three dimensions: (1) Theoretical: Mediatization as an alternative path to ‘media and religion’ studies by focusing on the articulation between the media environment and religious practices, both institutional and individual; (2) cultural: Mediatization has drawn religion closer to media culture and entertainment, which has allowed churches and denominations to reach a wider audience; and (3) political: Mediatization has enabled religion to get a broader visibility in the public space and to have a say in social matters. These elements lead to the suggestion that mediatization of religion is a new way of living the religious experience in everyday life.
Optimization of Mixed Energy Supply of IoT Network Based on Matching Game and Convex Optimization
Authors: Han Dongsheng , Liu Tao , Qi Yincheng
Published: September 2020

The interaction capability provided by the Internet of Things (IoT) significantly increases communication between human and machine, changing our lives gradually. However, the abundant constructions of 5G small base stations (SBSs) and large-scaled access of IoT terminal equipment (TE) will surely cause a dramatic increase in energy expense costs of a wireless communication system. In this study, we designed a bilateral random model of TE allocation and energy decisions in IoT, and proposed a mixed energy supply algorithm based on a matching game and convex optimization to minimize the energy expense cost of the wireless communication system in IoT. This study divided the problem of minimizing energy expense cost of the system into two steps. First, the random allocation problem of TEs in IoT was modeled to a matching game problem. This step is to obtain the TE matching scheme that minimizes the energy consumption of the whole system on the basis of guaranteeing the quality of service of TEs. Second, the energy decision problem of SBS was modeled into a convex optimization problem. The energy purchase scheme of SBSs with the minimum energy expense cost of the system was obtained by solving the optimal solution of the convex optimization. According to the simulation results, the proposed mixed energy supply scheme can decrease the energy expense cost of the system effectively.
A Digital Interface ASIC for Triple-Axis MEMS Vibratory Gyroscopes
Authors: Lv Risheng , Fu Qiang , Chen Weiping , Yin Liang , Liu Xiaowei , Zhang Yufeng
Published: September 2020

This paper proposes a solution for sensing spatial angular velocity. A high-performance digital interface application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) for triple-axis micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) vibratory gyroscopes is presented. The technique of time multiplexing is employed for synergetic stable drive control and precise angular velocity measurement in three separate degrees of freedom (DOF). Self-excited digital closed loop drives the proof mass in sensing elements at its inherent resonant frequency for Coriolis force generation during angular rotation. The analog front ends in both drive and sense loops are comprised of low-noise charge-voltage (C/V) converters and multi-channel incremental zoom analog-to-digital converters (ADC), so that capacitance variation between combs induced by mechanical motion is transformed into digital voltage signals. Other circuitry elements, such as loop controlling and accurate demodulation modules, are all implemented in digital logics. Automatic amplitude stabilization is mainly realized by peak detection and proportion-integration (PI) control. Nonlinear digital gain adjustment is designed for rapid establishment of resonance oscillation and linearity improvement. Manufactured in a standard 0.35-μm complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) technology, this design achieves a bias instability of 2.1°/h and a nonlinearity of 0.012% over full-scale range.
Preparation of pH-Indicative and Flame-Retardant Nanocomposite Films for Smart Packaging Applications
Authors: Abu-Thabit Nedal , Hakeem Abbas Saeed , Mezghani Khaled , Ratemi Elaref , Elzagheid Mohamed , Umar Yunusa , Primartomo Adhi , Al Batty Sirhan , Azad Abdul Kalam , Al Anazi Sami , Ahmad Ayman
Published: September 2020

There is an increasing demand for sustainable and safe packaging technologies to improve consumer satisfaction, reduce food loss during storage and transportation, and track the quality status of food throughout its distribution. This study reports the fabrication of colorimetric pH-indicative and flame-retardant nanocomposite films (NCFs) based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and nanoclays for smart and safe food packaging applications. Tough, flexible, and transparent NCFs were obtained using 15% nanoclay loading (PVA-15) with superior properties, including low solubility/swelling in water and high thermal stability with flame-retardant behavior. The NCFs showed average mechanical properties that are comparable to commercial films for packaging applications. The color parameters were recorded at different pH values and the prepared NCFs showed distinctive colorimetric pH-responsive behavior during the transition from acidic to alkaline medium with high values for the calculated color difference (∆E ≈ 50). The prepared NCFs provided an effective way to detect the spoilage of the shrimp samples via monitoring the color change of the NCFs during the storage period. The current study proposes the prepared NCFs as renewable candidates for smart food packaging featuring colorimetric pH-sensing for monitoring food freshness as well as a safer alternative choice for applications that demand films with fire-retardant properties.
Investigation of the Performance of TDoA-Based Localization Over LoRaWAN in Theory and Practice
Authors: Pospisil Jan , Fujdiak Radek , Mikhaylov Konstantin
Published: September 2020

The paper deals with the localization in a low-power wide-area-network (LPWAN) operating long-range wide-area-network (LoRaWAN) technology. The LoRaWAN is, today, one of the most widely used connectivity-enabling technologies for the battery-powered smart devices employed in a broad range of applications. Many of these applications either require or can benefit from the availability of geolocation information. The use of global positioning system (GPS) technology is restrained by the bad propagation of the signal when the device is hidden indoors, and by energy consumption such a receiver would require. Therefore, this paper focuses on an alternative solution implying the use of the information readily available in the LoRaWAN network and application of the time difference of arrival (TDoA) method for the passive geolocation of end-devices in the network. First, the limits of geolocation services in networks that use narrow-band communication channels are discussed, as well as the relevant challenges faced by the TDoA approach. Then, we select five classic TDoA algorithms and evaluate their performance using simulation. Based on these results, we select the two providing the best accuracy (i.e., Chan’s and Foy’s). These algorithms were tested by the field measurements, using the specially designed low-cost gateways and test devices to estimate their real-life performance.
Millimeter-Wave Array Radar-Based Human Gait Recognition Using Multi-Channel Three-Dimensional Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Jiang Xinrui , Zhang Ye , Yang Qi , Deng Bin , Wang Hongqiang
Published: September 2020

At present, there are two obvious problems in radar-based gait recognition. First, the traditional radar frequency band is difficult to meet the requirements of fine identification with due to its low carrier frequency and limited micro-Doppler resolution. Another significant problem is that radar signal processing is relatively complex, and the existing signal processing algorithms are poor in real-time usability, robustness and universality. This paper focuses on the two basic problems of human gait detection with radar and proposes a human gait classification and recognition method based on millimeter-wave array radar. Based on deep-learning technology, a multi-channel three-dimensional convolution neural network is proposed on the basis of improving the residual network, which completes the classification and recognition of human gait through the hierarchical extraction and fusion of multi-dimensional features. Taking the three-dimensional coordinates, motion speed and intensity of strong scattering points in the process of target motion as network inputs, multi-channel convolution is used to extract motion features, and the classification and recognition of typical daily actions are completed. The experimental results show that we have more than 92.5% recognition accuracy for common gait categories such as jogging and normal walking.
UV Sensor Based on Fiber Bragg Grating Covered with Graphene Oxide Embedded in Composite Materials
Authors: Lesiak Piotr , Bednarska Karolina , Małkowski Krzysztof , Kozłowski Łukasz , Wróblewska Anna , Sobotka Piotr , Dydek Kamil , Boczkowska Anna , Osuch Tomasz , Anuszkiewicz Alicja , Lewoczko-Adamczyk Wojciech , Schröder Henning , Woliński Tomasz Ryszard
Published: September 2020

Polymer–matrix composites degrade under the influence of UV radiation in the range of the 290–400 nm band. The degradation of polymer–matrix composites exposed to UV radiation is characterized by extensive aging of the epoxy matrix, resulting in deterioration of their mechanical properties. Glass fibers/epoxy resin composites were made by an out-of-autoclave method whereas a fiber optic sensor was placed between different layers of laminates. In our work, we used a fiber Bragg grating sensor covered with graphene oxide and embedded in a polymer matrix composite to monitor UV radiation intensity. Measurements of UV radiation may allow monitoring the aging process of individual components of the polymer composite. In order to estimate the number of microcracks of epoxy resin, microstructure observations were carried out using a scanning electron microscope.
Geosynchronous Satellite GF-4 Observations of Chlorophyll-a Distribution Details in the Bohai Sea, China
Authors: Cai Lina , Bu Juan , Tang Danling , Zhou Minrui , Yao Ru , Huang Shuyi
Published: September 2020

We analyzed the distribution of chlorophyll-a (Chla) in the Bohai Sea area based on data from the geosynchronous orbit optical satellite Gaofen-4 (GF-4), which was launched in 2015, carrying a panchromatic multispectral sensor (PMS). This is the first time the geosynchronous orbit optical satellite GF-4 remote-sensing data has been used in China to detect the Chla change details in the Bohai Sea. A new GF-4 retrieved model was established based on the relationship between in situ Chla value and the reflectance combination of 2 and 4 bands, with the R2 of 0.9685 and the total average relative error of 37.42%. Twenty PMS images obtained from 2017 to 2019 were applied to analyze Chla in Bohai sea. The results show that: (1) the new built Chla inversion model PMS-1 for the GF-4 PMS sensor can extract Chla distribution details in the Bohai Sea well. The high Chla content in the Bohai Sea is mainly located in coastal areas, such as the top of Laizhou Bay, Bohai Bay and Liaodong Bay, with the value being around 13 µg/L. The concentration of Chla in the Bohai Strait and northern Yellow Sea is relatively low with the value being around 5 µg/L. (2). Taking full advantage of the continuous observation of geostationary orbit satellite, GF-4 with a high-resolution sensor PMS of 50 m can effectively detect short-term change (changes within 10 min) in Chla concentration. The changes mainly appear at the southwest and northeast costal area as well as in the center of Bohai Sea with the change value of around 3 µg/L. (3) The change of Chla concentration in the Bohai sea is related to the environmental factors such as seawater temperature, salinity, illumination and nutrient salts, as well as the dynamic factors such as wind, flow field and tidal current.