bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ship Bow Wings with Application to Trim and Resistance Control in Calm Water and in Waves
Authors: Ntouras Dimitris , Papadakis George , Belibassakis Kostas
Published: April 2022

Flapping foils for augmenting thrust production have drawn attention as a means of assisting ship propulsion in waves due to their high efficiency rate compared to traditional screw propellers. However, they can also offer substantial resistance reduction when used as stabilizers. In this work, the aim is to investigate the feasibility of a symbiotic concept combining the ship’s propeller with a foil arranged at the ship’s bow at a fixed position operating as a trim-pitch stabilizer. The work presents results obtained from experiments conducted in the towing tank of the Laboratory of Ship and Marine Hydrodynamics of the National Technical University of Athens (LMSH NTUA), as well as results from an in-house CFD solver. The test cases focused on the resistance and the dynamic behavior of the wing–vessel configuration in calm water conditions and in head waves. All results were compared against the performance of a bare hull (without foil). The findings of this work are based both on numerical and experimental data and indicate that a bow wing in static mode can be used for trim-control of a vessel by altering the angle of attack leading to a possible drop in wave resistance both in calm water and in waves. In the latter case, utilizing the wing in head waves results in a significant reduction in the pitching and heaving responses of the vessel, which may lead to substantial enhancement of the propulsion performance.
Surgical Ventricular Restoration for Ischemic Heart Failure: A Glance at a Real-World Population
Authors: Castelvecchio Serenella , Milani Valentina , Ambrogi Federico , Volpe Marianna , Ramputi Lucia , Soletti Giovanni , Menicanti Lorenzo
Published: April 2022

Surgical ventricular restoration (SVR) has repeatedly been suggested as a viable therapeutic strategy for ischemic heart failure (HF) patients, although the survival benefit is still debated. We investigated a real-world population treated with SVR in a single center with high case volumes. From July 2001 to June 2017, 648 patients (111 females) underwent SVR; coronary surgery was performed in 582 patients. Data were analyzed by dividing the population into two groups: Group I (371 patients operated between July 2001 and December 2007) and Group II (277 patients operated between January 2008 and June 2017). At baseline, Group I patients were more symptomatic for angina (47.4% versus 19.4%, p < 0.0001) and less symptomatic for HF (NYHA class III/IV, 46.3% versus 57%, p = 0.0071). The end-diastolic volume (106 mL/m2 versus 118.3 mL/m2, p < 0.0001) and the end-systolic volume (70.5 mL/m2 versus 81.5 mL/m2, p < 0.0001) were lower in Group I. The presence of 3-vessel coronary artery disease (CAD) was higher in Group I (73.3% versus 59.2%, p < 0.0001). Thirty-day mortality (6.64%) was similar in the two groups (p = 0.4475). The Kaplan–Meier estimate for all-cause mortality for the entire population was 13% at 2 years, 19.2% at 4 years and 36.6% at 8 years, and the probability was not different between groups (Log-rank = 0.11). In a real-world ischemic HF population, SVR may be carried out with favorable results; in patients with worse LV remodeling and less extensive CAD, SVR showed a trend toward a better outcome.
Personalized Self-Monitoring of Energy Balance through Integration in a Web-Application of Dietary, Anthropometric, and Physical Activity Data
Authors: Bianchetti Giada , Abeltino Alessio , Serantoni Cassandra , Ardito Federico , Malta Daniele , De Spirito Marco , Maulucci Giuseppe
Published: April 2022

Self-monitoring of weight, diet and physical activity is a valuable component of behavioral weight loss treatment. The validation and user-friendliness of this approach is not optimal since users are selected from homogeneous pools and rely on different applications, increasing the burden and achieving partial, generic and/or unrelated information about their metabolic state. Moreover, studies establishing type, time, duration, and adherence criteria for self-monitoring are lacking. In this study, we developed a digital web-based application (ArmOnIA), which integrates dietary, anthropometric, and physical activity data and provides a personalized estimation of energy balance. Moreover, we determined type, time, duration, and adherence criteria for self-monitoring to achieve significant weight loss in a highly heterogeneous group. A single-arm, uncontrolled prospective study on self-monitored voluntary adults for 7 months was performed. Hierarchical clustering of adherence parameters yielded three behavioral approaches: high (HA), low (LA), and medium (MA) adherence. Average BMI decrease is statistically significant between LA and HA. Moreover, we defined thresholds for the minimum frequencies and duration of dietary and weight self-monitoring. This approach can provide the correct clues to empower citizens with scientific knowledge, augmenting their self-awareness with the aim of achieving long-lasting results when pursuing a healthy lifestyle.
Decision Theory versus Conventional Statistics for Personalized Therapy of Breast Cancer
Authors: Kenn Michael , Karch Rudolf , Cacsire Castillo-Tong Dan , Singer Christian F. , Koelbl Heinz , Schreiner Wolfgang
Published: April 2022

Estrogen and progesterone receptors being present or not represents one of the most important biomarkers for therapy selection in breast cancer patients. Conventional measurement by immunohistochemistry (IHC) involves errors, and numerous attempts have been made to increase precision by additional information from gene expression. This raises the question of how to fuse information, in particular, if there is disagreement. It is the primary domain of Dempster–Shafer decision theory (DST) to deal with contradicting evidence on the same item (here: receptor status), obtained through different techniques. DST is widely used in technical settings, such as self-driving cars and aviation, and is also promising to deliver significant advantages in medicine. Using data from breast cancer patients already presented in previous work, we focus on comparing DST with classical statistics in this work, to pave the way for its application in medicine. First, we explain how DST not only considers probabilities (a single number per sample), but also incorporates uncertainty in a concept of ‘evidence’ (two numbers per sample). This allows for very powerful displays of patient data in so-called ternary plots, a novel and crucial advantage for medical interpretation. Results are obtained according to conventional statistics (ODDS) and, in parallel, according to DST. Agreement and differences are evaluated, and the particular merits of DST discussed. The presented application demonstrates how decision theory introduces new levels of confidence in diagnoses derived from medical data.
Association between 3D Printing-Assisted Pelvic or Acetabular Fracture Surgery and the Length of Hospital Stay in Nongeriatric Male Adults
Authors: Hung Chun-Chi , Shen Pei-Hung , Wu Jia-Lin , Cheng Yung-Wen , Chen Wei-Liang , Lee Shih-Han , Yeh Tsu-Te
Published: April 2022

Pelvic and acetabular fractures are challenging for orthopedic surgeons, but 3D printing has many benefits in treating these fractures and has been applied worldwide. This study aimed to determine whether 3D printing can shorten the length of hospital stay (LHS) in nongeriatric male adult patients with these fractures. This is a single-center retrospective study of 167 nongeriatric male adult participants from August 2009 to December 2021. Participants were divided into two groups based on whether they received 3D printing assistance. Subgroup analyses were performed. Pearson’s correlation and multivariable linear regression models were used to analyze the LHS and the parameters. Results showed that 3D printing-assisted surgery did not affect LHS in the analyzed patients. The LHS was positively correlated with the Injury Severity Score (ISS). Initial hemoglobin levels were negatively associated with LHS in patients aged 18–40 and non-major trauma (ISS < 16) patients. In 40–60-year-old and non-major trauma patients, the duration from fracture to admission was significantly associated with LHS. This study indicates that 3D-assisted technology for pelvic or acetabular fracture surgery for nongeriatric male adults does not influence the LHS. More importantly, the initial evaluation of patients in the hospital was the main predictor of the LHS.
Digital Twin: Financial Technology’s Next Frontier of Robo-Advisor
Authors: Anshari Muhammad , Almunawar Mohammad Nabil , Masri Masairol
Published: April 2022

This research examines the concept of a robo-advisor with digital twin capabilities for personal financial management. Using an exploratory study, the researchers developed an interactive and interpretive model that analyses the most critical variables to consider when designing the next level of financial robo-advisor through integrating digital twin concepts and applications. Primarily, it conducts an assessment and then reviews the data to propose a model that can serve as a baseline for future research. Related literature was explored, including peer-reviewed journal articles, case studies, periodicals, newspaper articles, and books. This study aims to assess the concept of digital twin (DT) as the next frontier of robo-advisor as a new wave of intelligent financial advisors in supporting the personalisation and customisation of financial technology (FinTech) services and management. Individuals who use a DT-enabled robo-advisor may find a significantly greater value for their financial management and well-being. A robo-advisor with DT enabled will no longer be an ad hoc financial advisory service but will evolve into a comprehensive and dynamic financial advisory service for users. The research presents several critical insights on financial robo-advisory with DT capabilities, transforming and optimising smart financial advisory.
Effect of Gated Weir Opening on the Topography and Zooplankton Community of Geum River, South Korea
Authors: Kim Seong-Ki , Joo Gea-Jae , Choi Jong-Yun
Published: April 2022

Hydrological changes affect not only the physicochemical factors and habitat structure of river ecosystems, but also the structure of biological communities sensitive to environmental changes, such as zooplankton. In this study, we investigate the effects of weir opening on environmental variables and topographic structures at Sejong Weir in South Korea and monitor the resulting changes in the structure and distribution of the zooplankton community. Weir opening led to increased dissolved oxygen and decreased conductivity, turbidity, chlorophyll a, total phosphorus, and total nitrogen and increased the diversity of topographic structures (reduced pool area and increase riffle and grassland/bare land areas) in the section downstream of Sejong Weir. Prior to weir opening (2015–2016), the cladoceran community was dominated by Chydrous spaeericus and Moina microcopa. After opening (2018–2019), the abundance of other cladoceran communities such as Bosmina groups (Bosmina longiseta, Bosmina fatalis, and Bosminopsis deitersi), Ceriodaphnia sp., and Daphnia obtusa increased. In contrast, the copepod species (Cyclops vicinus and Mesocyclops leukarti) were abundant before weir opening. We conclude that artificial weir opening helped maintain the unique environmental characteristics of the river ecosystem in terms of river continuity and led to a different zooplankton community composition in the new river environment.
Comparison of Optimization Strategies for Musculoskeletal Modeling of the Wrist for Therapy Planning in Case of Total Wrist Arthroplasty
Authors: Eschweiler Jörg , Praster Maximilian , Quack Valentin , Li Jianzhang , Rath Björn , Hildebrand Frank , Migliorini Filippo
Published: April 2022

The human wrist joint is an elegant mechanism. The wrist allows the positioning and orienting of the hand to the forearm. The computational modeling of the human hand, especially of the wrist joint, can reveal important information about biomechanical mechanisms and provide the basis for its dysfunction and pathologies. For instance, this could be used for therapy planning in total wrist arthroplasty (TWA). In this study, different optimization methods and sensitivity analyses of anatomical parameters for musculoskeletal modeling were presented. Optimization includes finding the best available value of an objective function, including a variety of different types of objective functions. In the simplest case, optimization consists of maximizing or minimizing a function by systematically choosing input values from within an allowed set and computing the value of the function. Optimization techniques are used in many facets, such as the model building of joints or joint systems such as the wrist. The purpose of this study is to show the variability and influence of the included information for modeling, investigating the biomechanical function and load situation of the joint in representative scenarios. These possibilities to take them into account by an optimization and seem essential for the application of computational modeling to joint pathologies.
Physicochemical Properties of Biochar Produced from Goldenrod Plants
Authors: Łapczyńska-Kordon Bogusława , Ślipek Zbigniew , Słomka-Polonis Karolina , Styks Jakub , Hebda Tomasz , Francik Sławomir
Published: April 2022

Torrefaction is one of the methods of thermal treatment of biomass, which allows obtaining a product of better quality in the form of biochar. The aim of the paper was to analyze the possibility of using goldenrod (Solidago canadensis, Solidago gigantea) for the production of biochar. The torrefaction process involved the vegetative and generative parts as well as the whole plant at temperatures of 250 °C and 275 °C, for 3 h. Next, the physicochemical properties of the raw material and biochar were determined, namely moisture content, ash content, volatile matter content, calorific value, and heat of combustion. The bulk density of raw biomass and biochar was also determined. It was found that after biomass torrefaction, the ash content, calorific value, and heat of combustion increased, while volatile matter content decreased. It has been observed that in both the case of raw biomass and biochar, the plant species and the sampled parts have a significant impact on the ash content, volatile matter content, calorific value, and heat of combustion.
3D-Printed Hydroxyapatite and Tricalcium Phosphates-Based Scaffolds for Alveolar Bone Regeneration in Animal Models: A Scoping Review
Authors: Mohd Nurulhuda , Razali Masfueh , Ghazali Mariyam Jameelah , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty
Published: April 2022

Three-dimensional-printed scaffolds have received greater attention as an attractive option compared to the conventional bone grafts for regeneration of alveolar bone defects. Hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphates have been used as biomaterials in the fabrication of 3D-printed scaffolds. This scoping review aimed to evaluate the potential of 3D-printed HA and calcium phosphates-based scaffolds on alveolar bone regeneration in animal models. The systematic search was conducted across four electronic databases: Ovid, Web of Science, PubMed and EBSCOHOST, based on PRISMA-ScR guidelines until November 2021. The inclusion criteria were: (i) animal models undergoing alveolar bone regenerative surgery, (ii) the intervention to regenerate or augment bone using 3D-printed hydroxyapatite or other calcium phosphate scaffolds and (iii) histological and microcomputed tomographic analyses of new bone formation and biological properties of 3D-printed hydroxyapatite or calcium phosphates. A total of ten studies were included in the review. All the studies showed promising results on new bone formation without any inflammatory reactions, regardless of the animal species. In conclusion, hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphates are feasible materials for 3D-printed scaffolds for alveolar bone regeneration and demonstrated bone regenerative potential in the oral cavity. However, further research is warranted to determine the scaffold material which mimics the gold standard of care for bone regeneration in the load-bearing areas, including the masticatory load of the oral cavity.
Investigation into Changes of Microstructure and Abrasive Wear Resistance Occurring in High Manganese Steel X120Mn12 during Isothermal Annealing and Re-Austenitisation Process
Authors: Dziubek Mateusz , Rutkowska-Gorczyca Małgorzata , Dudziński Włodzimierz , Grygier Dominika
Published: April 2022

Hadfield steel, under unit pressure conditions, strengthens itself by forming a high density dislocation structure, which results in increased resistance to dynamic impact wear. However, under abrasion conditions, the homogeneous microstructure of the cast steel is insufficient to achieve the expected service life. The aim of the research is to conduct a comparative analysis of the material in its as-delivered state and after two-stage heat treatment (isothermal annealing followed by re-austenitisation). It was found that after isothermal annealing of X120Mn12 grade steel at a temperature of 510 °C, a microstructure with a complex morphology consisting of colonies of fine-grained pearlite, (Fe,Mn)3C carbides distributed along the grain boundaries of the former austenite and needle-like (Fe,Mn)3C carbides was obtained in the austenite matrix. The subsequent thermal treatment of the steel with the use of supersaturating annealing at 900 °C resulted in a heterogeneous microstructure consisting of evenly distributed globular carbide precipitations in a matrix of considerably finer austenite grains in comparison with the as-delivered original state. As a result of the final microstructural changes achieved, a 16.4% increase in abrasion resistance was obtained compared to the delivered condition.
Fabrication of Color Glass with High Light Transmittance by Pearlescent Pigments and Optical Adhesive
Authors: Ahn Hyeon-Sik , Gasonoo Akpeko , Lim Seong-Min , Lee Jae-Hyun , Choi Yoonseuk
Published: April 2022

In this study, we propose a solution process for realizing colored glass for building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems by spin coating a color solution composed of pearlescent pigments mixed in a Norland Optical Adhesive (NOA) matrix. Color solutions are made from mixing pearlescent pigments in NOA63. Compared to a physical vapor deposition process, color coatings are achieved by spin coating in a relatively simple and inexpensive process at room temperature. The optical properties can be easily controlled by adjusting the spin coating speed and the concentration of the pearlescent pigments. The produced colored glass achieved a high transmittance of 85% or more in the visible wavelength range, except for the wavelength spectrum exhibiting the maximum reflectance. In addition, we propose a one-step lamination process of colored glass on a solar cell by leveraging on the adhesive property of the NOA matrix. This eliminates the cost and process of additional ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) layer or other materials used in the conventional lamination process. The colored glass produced through this study has stability that does not change its properties over time. Therefore, it is expected to be applied to the BIPV solar module market where aesthetics and energy efficiency are required.
Correlation Analysis between Microscopic Pore Parameters and Macroscopic Mechanical Properties of Rock-like Materials from the Perspective of Water-Cement Ratio and Sand-Cement Ratio
Authors: Tian Guanglin , Deng Hongwei , Xiao Yigai
Published: April 2022

To explore the effects of water-cement ratio and sand-cement ratio on micro-pore structure characteristics and macroscopic mechanical properties and thus improve the understanding of rock-like materials, the mechanical test and detection of micro-pore structure combining NMR and SEM were carried out. The effects of WCR and SCR on different porosity parameters and mechanical properties were discussed. The correlation and internal relationship between mechanical properties and parameters of different porosities and fractal dimensions were analyzed. Experimental results showed that the different porosity parameters and fractal dimensions increased with the increase in WCR. 1.0 (SCR) was the turning point of different porosity parameters and fractal dimensions. When the SCR was less than 1.0, the porosity parameters and fractal dimension gradually decreased, while when the SCR was greater than 1.0, the porosity parameters and fractal dimension gradually increased. Microscopic porosity parameters and fractal dimension played an important role in the influence of experimental factors on mechanical properties. Different porosity parameters and fractal dimensions were negatively correlated with mechanical properties. Compressive strength and different porosity parameters conformed to a good exponential relationship, while the fitting relationship between tensile strength and mechanical properties was not obvious. This study can provide a reference for the follow-up study of rock-like materials.
Tuning Surface Properties via Plasma Treatments for the Improved Capture of MicroRNA Biomarkers
Authors: Speranza Giorgio , Mele Gaetano Roberto , Favia Pietro , Pederzolli Cecilia , Potrich Cristina
Published: April 2022

Advanced materials could bring about fundamental improvements in the evolution of innovative analytical devices, i.e., biosensors or lab-on-a-chip devices, in particular in the context of liquid biopsies. Here, plasma deposition processes were tested for the introduction of primary amines on silicon surfaces by tuning the amounts and availability of amino-charged residues. Different binary (CH4/NH3) and ternary (CH4/NH3/H2 and CH4/NH3/N2) mixtures of gases were used as feeds for the plasma treatments. The obtained surfaces were fully characterized for their chemical and physical properties before their use as capture materials in a functional test. Synthetic and fluorescently conjugated microRNA-21 (miR-21) was selected as the target molecule. The capture of miR-21 increased linearly with the increase in amino nitrogen measured on surfaces. The surface showing the most promising performance was further analyzed in different conditions, i.e., varying pH and time of incubation, incubation with different microRNAs, and possible elution of captured microRNAs. The apparent pH range of primary amines present on the surfaces was around 3.5–4. Positively charged surfaces prepared via PE-CVD were, therefore, demonstrated as being suitable materials for the capture of microRNA biomarkers, paving the way for their inclusion in biomedical devices for the purification and analysis of circulating biomarkers.
Study on Dissolution and Modification of Cotton Fiber in Different Growth Stages
Authors: Deng Xiaonan , Ye Sihong , Wan Lingzhong , Wu Juan , Sun Hui , Ni Ying , Liu Fangzhi
Published: April 2022

Cotton fibers with ultra-high purity cellulose are ideal raw materials for producing nanocellulose. However, the strong hydrogen bond and high crystallinity of cotton fibers affect the dissociation of cotton fibers to prepare nanocellulose. The structures of two kinds of cotton fibers (CM and XM) in different growth stages from 10 to 50 days post-anthesis (dpa) were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). In the process of cotton fiber growth, the deposition rate of cellulose macromolecules firstly increased and then stabilized. Then, the surface morphology, the chemical composition, and the crystal structure of the nanocellulose prepared from cotton fibers with different growth stages by deep eutectic solvent, a green solvent, were characterized by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, XRD, and Thermo Gravimetry (TG). The growth time of cotton fibers affected the properties of prepared nanocellulose, and nanocellulose obtained from cotton fibers at about 30 dpa had less energy consumption, higher yield, and milder reaction conditions.
Stress–Strain Field in an Innovative Metallic Dam Gate Used to Control the Water Flow
Authors: Itu Calin , Vlase Sorin
Published: April 2022

The paper aims to determine the stress and strain field in metallic dam gates to identify an optimal constructive solution for their design, from the point of view of strength in service. The study is of a dam with a central, oscillating pivot, which has the role of closing the gates when the downstream water level becomes too high and can thus flood the upstream portion of the river. It starts from a constructive solution initially proposed by the designers, which is then modified in several steps, until a better solution is reached in terms of strength to mechanical stress. This solution is obtained after analyzing several structural scenarios. The final results ensure an excellent behavior of the mechanical stresses, and represent a constructive solution that is easy to achieve and is economically convenient.
Microstructure and Texture Evolution in Low Carbon and Low Alloy Steel during Warm Deformation
Authors: Xu Sheng , Xu Haijie , Shu Xuedao , Li Shuxin , Shen Zhongliang
Published: April 2022

Warm compression tests were carried out on low carbon and low alloy steel at temperatures of 600–850 °C and stain rates of 0.01–10 s−1. The evolution of microstructure and texture was studied using a scanning electron microscope and electron backscattered diffraction. The results indicated that cementite spheroidization occurred and greatly reduced at 750 °C due to a phase transformation. Dynamic recrystallization led to a transition from {112}<110> texture to {111}<112> texture. Below 800 °C, the intensity and variation of texture with deformation temperature is more significant than that above 800 °C. The contents of the {111}<110> texture and {111}<112> texture were equivalent above 800 °C, resulting in the better uniformity of γ-fiber texture. Nucleation of <110>//ND-oriented grains increased, leading to the strengthening of <110>//ND texture. Microstructure analysis revealed that the uniform and refined grains can be obtained after deformation at 800 °C and 850 °C. The texture variation reflected the fact that 800 °C was the critical value for temperature sensitivity of warm deformation. At a large strain rate, the lowest dislocation density appeared after deformation at 800 °C. Therefore, 800 °C is a suitable temperature for the warm forming application, where the investigated material is easy to deform and evolves into a uniform and refined microstructure.
Milling Parameter Optimization of Continuous-Glass-Fiber-Reinforced-Polypropylene Laminate
Authors: Hu Hanjie , Du Bing , Ning Conggang , Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Zhuo , Xiong Yangyang , Zeng Xianjun , Chen Liming
Published: April 2022

The composite-material laminate structure will inevitably encounter connection problems in use. Among them, mechanical connections are widely used in aerospace, automotive and other fields because of their high connection efficiency and reliable connection performance. Milling parameters are important for the opening quality. In this paper, continuous-glass-fiber-reinforced-polypropylene (GFRPP) laminates were chosen to investigate the effects of different cutters and process parameters on the hole quality. The delamination factor and burr area were taken as the index to characterize the opening quality. After determining the optimal milling tool, the process window was obtained according to the appearance of the milling hole. In the selected process parameter, the maximum temperature did not reach the PP melting temperature. The best hole quality was achieved when the spindle speed was 18,000 r/min and the feed speed was 1500 mm/min with the corn milling cutter.
Advanced High-Speed Lane Keeping System of Autonomous Vehicle with Sideslip Angle Estimation
Authors: Wang Hengyang , Liu Biao , Qiao Junchao
Published: April 2022

An advanced LKS (lane keeping system) for use on curving roads is presented to maintain autonomous vehicle driving within the target lane, without unintentional lane departure. There are the following two main objectives in designing this system: one is performing perfect lane keeping and the other is ensuring the dynamic stability of the vehicle, especially when driving on a curving and low-friction road with time-varying high speed. In this paper, a combined vehicle model, consisting of a lane keeping model and a vehicle lateral dynamic model, is firstly introduced. Then, a novel adaptive-weight predictive controller is used to calculate the desired steering angle and the additional yaw moment which provide coordinated control forlane keeping and dynamic stability control. Meanwhile, a square-root cubature Kalman filter-based vehicle sideslip angle observer, with a strong tracking theory modification (ST-SRCKF), is established to estimate the sideslip angle during the driving process. Finally, HIL (hardware-in-the-loop) tests and field tests are constructed, and the results show the effectiveness of our proposed LKS controller and ST-SRCKF sideslip angle estimation.
Adaptive Relative Reflection Harris Hawks Optimization for Global Optimization
Authors: Zou Tingting , Wang Changyu
Published: April 2022

The Harris Hawks optimization (HHO) is a population-based metaheuristic algorithm; however, it has low diversity and premature convergence in certain problems. This paper proposes an adaptive relative reflection HHO (ARHHO), which increases the diversity of standard HHO, alleviates the problem of stagnation of local optimal solutions, and improves the search accuracy of the algorithm. The main features of the algorithm define nonlinear escape energy and adaptive weights and combine adaptive relative reflection with the HHO algorithm. Furthermore, we prove the computational complexity of the ARHHO algorithm. Finally, the performance of our algorithm is evaluated by comparison with other well-known metaheuristic algorithms on 23 benchmark problems. Experimental results show that our algorithms performs better than the compared algorithms on most of the benchmark functions.
Human Strategic Decision Making in Parametrized Games
Authors: Ganzfried Sam
Published: April 2022

Many real-world games contain parameters which can affect payoffs, action spaces, and information states. For fixed values of the parameters, the game can be solved using standard algorithms. However, in many settings agents must act without knowing the values of the parameters that will be encountered in advance. Often the decisions must be made by a human under time and resource constraints, and it is unrealistic to assume that a human can solve the game in real time. We present a new framework that enables human decision makers to make fast decisions without the aid of real-time solvers. We demonstrate applicability to a variety of situations including settings with multiple players and imperfect information.
Robust Zero-Watermarking Algorithm for Medical Images Using Double-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform and Hessenberg Decomposition
Authors: Huang Tongyuan , Xu Jia , Yang Yuling , Han Baoru
Published: April 2022

With the rapid development of smart medical care, copyright security for medical images is becoming increasingly important. To improve medical images storage and transmission safety, this paper proposes a robust zero-watermarking algorithm for medical images by fusing Dual-Tree Complex Wavelet Transform (DTCWT), Hessenberg decomposition, and Multi-level Discrete Cosine Transform (MDCT). First, the low-frequency sub-band of the medical image is obtained through the DTCWT and MDCT. Then Hessenberg decomposition is used to construct the visual feature vector. Meanwhile, the encryption of the watermarking image by combining cryptographic algorithms, third-party concepts, and chaotic sequences enhances the algorithm’s security. In the proposed algorithm, zero-watermarking technology is utilized to assure the medical images’ completeness. Compared with the existing algorithms, the proposed algorithm has good robustness and invisibility and can efficiently extract the watermarking image and resist different attacks.
Effect of Money Supply, Population, and Rent on Real Estate: A Clustering Analysis in Taiwan
Authors: Yang Cheng-Hong , Lee Borcy , Lin Yu-Da
Published: April 2022

Real estate is a complex and unpredictable industry because of the many factors that influence it, and conducting a thorough analysis of these factors is challenging. This study explores why house prices have continued to increase over the last 10 years in Taiwan. A clustering analysis based on a double-bottom map particle swarm optimization algorithm was applied to cluster real estate–related data collected from public websites. We report key findings from the clustering results and identify three essential variables that could affect trends in real estate prices: money supply, population, and rent. Mortgages are issued more frequently as additional real estate is created, increasing the money supply. The relationship between real estate and money supply can provide the government with baseline data for managing the real estate market and avoiding unlimited growth. The government can use sociodemographic data to predict population trends to in turn prevent real estate bubbles and maintain a steady economic growth. Renting and using social housing is common among the younger generation in Taiwan. The results of this study could, therefore, assist the government in managing the relationship between the rental and real estate markets.
Study of the Angular Positioning of a Rotating Object Based on Some Computational Intelligence Methods
Authors: Volosencu Constantin
Published: April 2022

The paper presents the result of a study that can be included in the broader field of research aimed at increasing the performance of automatic motion control systems. The main contribution of the article is the comparative study of three control methods from the domain of computational intelligence—state feedback fuzzy control, neural predictive control, and neural model reference control—and three linear control methods—error feedback control, digital control, and state feedback control, in the case of positioning a rotating object around a central axis. The developed control structures were modeled and simulated using MATLAB/Simulink. The paper presents the chosen control structures; how to dimension them; the parameters of the linear, fuzzy, and neural regulators; the training parameters of the neural networks; and the characteristics of the variables of the control systems in the transient regime and the steady-state regime. Transient characteristics obtained for the six control structures are compared from the point of view of their control efficiency criteria. The differences in performance criteria between the control methods studied are small. All these studied methods make the regulated system to be carried on various state trajectories, short response times are obtained with aperiodic and asymptotic behavior, and the differences between the values of the efficiency indicators are small.
Probing Anti-Leukemic Metabolites from Marine-Derived Streptomyces sp. LY1209
Authors: Chen You-Ying , Chen Lo-Yun , Chen Po-Jen , El-Shazly Mohamed , Peng Bo-Rong , Chen Yu-Cheng , Su Chun-Han , Su Jui-Hsin , Sung Ping-Jyun , Yen Pei-Tzu , Wang Lung-Shuo , Lai Kuei-Hung
Published: April 2022

The unmet need for specific anti-leukemic agents for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia led us to screen a variety of marine-derived bacteria. The fermentation broth extract of Streptomyces sp. LY1209 exhibited the most potent anti-proliferative effect against Molt 4 leukemia cells. A chromatographic anti-proliferative profiling approach was applied to characterize the metabolites with bioactive potential. Among all the metabolites, the major anti-leukemic constituents were staurosporine and a series of diketopiperazines (DKPs), including one novel and two known DKPs identified from nature for the first time. The structures of these compounds were identified using extensive spectroscopic analysis. The anti-proliferative potential of these metabolites against the Molt 4 cancer cell line was also determined. According to the in silico analysis utilizing a chemical global positioning system for natural products (ChemGPS-NP), it was suggested that these DKPs are potential anti-microtubule and alkylating agents, while staurosporine was proposed to be a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. Our findings not only identified a series of anti-proliferative metabolites, but also suggested a strategic workflow for the future discovery of natural product drug leads.
Hepatic Positron Emission Tomography: Applications in Metabolism, Haemodynamics and Cancer
Authors: Honka Miikka-Juhani , Rebelos Eleni , Malaspina Simona , Nuutila Pirjo
Published: April 2022

Evaluating in vivo the metabolic rates of the human liver has been a challenge due to its unique perfusion system. Positron emission tomography (PET) represents the current gold standard for assessing non-invasively tissue metabolic rates in vivo. Here, we review the existing literature on the assessment of hepatic metabolism, haemodynamics and cancer with PET. The tracer mainly used in metabolic studies has been [18F]2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (18F-FDG). Its application not only enables the evaluation of hepatic glucose uptake in a variety of metabolic conditions and interventions, but based on the kinetics of 18F-FDG, endogenous glucose production can also be assessed. 14(R,S)-[18F]fluoro-6-thia-Heptadecanoic acid (18F-FTHA), 11C-Palmitate and 11C-Acetate have also been applied for the assessment of hepatic fatty acid uptake rates (18F-FTHA and 11C-Palmitate) and blood flow and oxidation (11C-Acetate). Oxygen-15 labelled water (15O-H2O) has been used for the quantification of hepatic perfusion. 18F-FDG is also the most common tracer used for hepatic cancer diagnostics, whereas 11C-Acetate has also shown some promising applications in imaging liver malignancies. The modelling approaches used to analyse PET data and also the challenges in utilizing PET in the assessment of hepatic metabolism are presented.
Prevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi Sensu Lato in Ixodes ricinus Ticks Collected from Kaylaka Park in Pleven, Bulgaria
Authors: Blazhev Alexander , Stanilov Iskren , Miteva Lyuba Dineva , Atanasova Milena , Blazheva Svetla , Stanilova Spaska
Published: April 2022

We aimed to determine the presence and distribution of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) in Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from urbanized and wild areas in Kaylaka Park (Bulgaria). A total of 546 ticks were collected over three years (2017–2019). The presence of Borrelia in 334 of the collected I. ricinus was detected by dark-field microscopy (DFM) and two nested PCRs (nPCR) targeting the borrelial 5S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer and Flagellin B (FlaB) gene. DFM was performed on a total of 215 ticks, of which 86 (40%) were positive. PCR was performed on 153 of the ticks. In total, 42.5% of the 5S-23S rRNA intergenic spacer and 49% of FlaB were positive. Considering as positive any single tick in which Borrelia sp. was detected regardless of the used method, the infection rate reached 37% (10/27) in the nymphs and 48.5% (149/307) in the adults (48.7% (77/158) females, 48.3% (72/149) males). The incidence of B. burgdorferi infection in I. ricinus did not differ statistically significantly between female, male, and nymph. This study provides evidence that Lyme disease spirochetes are present in various regions of Kaylaka Park with extremely high prevalence in their vectors.
Development of a Genus-Universal Nucleotide Signature for the Identification and Supervision of Ephedra-Containing Products
Authors: Wang Gang , Bai Xuanjiao , Chen Xiaochen , Ren Ying , Han Jianping
Published: April 2022

Ephedra plants generally contain ephedrine alkaloids, which are the critical precursor compounds of methamphetamine (METH). METH could cause serious physical and mental damage, and therefore Ephedra materials are strictly in supervision internationally. However, unlawful utilization of Ephedra herbs and its products still exist. Thus, it is imperative to establish a universal method for monitoring Ephedra ingredients in complex mixtures and processed products. In this study, 224 ITS2 sequences representing 59 taxa within Ephedra were collected, and a 23-bp genus-level nucleotide signature (GTCCGGTCCGCCTCGGCGGTGCG) was developed for the identification of the whole genus. The specific primers MH-1F/1R were designed, and 125 individuals of twelve Ephedra species/varieties were gathered for applicability verification of the nucleotide signature. Additionally, seven batches of Chinese patent medicines containing Ephedra herbs were used to test the application of the nucleotide signature in complex and highly processed materials. The results demonstrated that the 23-bp molecular marker was unique to Ephedra and conserved within the genus. It can be successfully utilized for the detection of Ephedra components in complex preparations and processed products with severe DNA degradation. The method developed in this study could undoubtedly serve as a strong support for the supervision of illegal circulation of Ephedra-containing products.
ZnO Nanoparticles Obtained by Green Synthesis as an Alternative to Improve the Germination Characteristics of L. esculentum
Authors: Asmat-Campos David , López-Medina Eloy , Montes de Oca-Vásquez Gabriela , Gil-Rivero Efraín , Delfín-Narciso Daniel , Juárez-Cortijo Luisa , Villena-Zapata Luigi , Gurreonero-Fernández Julio , Rafael-Amaya Roly
Published: April 2022

Tomato is an important crop due to its nutritional contributions and organoleptic properties, which make it an appetizing vegetable around the world. In its sowing, the use of seed is the most accessible propagation mechanism for farmers. However, the induction to germination and emergence is often limited in the absence of stimulants that promote the development and growth of the seedling, added to the interference of infectious agents that notoriously reduce the vitality and viability of the seed. Given this, it was proposed as a research objective to determine the effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) mediated by a green route on the germinative characteristics of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. 1768 “tomato”. The experimental phase consisted of the synthesis of ZnO NPs and its subsequent characterization. After its synthesis, its inoculation was conducted during the germination of seeds of L. esculentum, considering six sample groups for the treatment with zinc nanoparticles (T1: Control; T2: 21.31 ppm; T3: 33.58 ppm; T4: 49.15 ppm; T5: 63.59 and T6: 99.076 ppm). The results indicate that concentrations close to 100 ppm of ZnO NPs are ideal in the treatment of L. esculentum seeds, due to the promotion of enzymatic and metabolic activity to achieve cell elongation; likewise, the biosynthesized nanoparticles showed no phytotoxicity, due to the fact that, in all the treatments, there were processes of germination and emergence. This was linked to the generation of a Zn0-phenolate complex through a chelating effect, which generates compatibility with the seed and, compared to classic inorganic synthesis, usually shows phytotoxicity. In this sense, green synthesis is presented as a great alternative in this type of application.
Evaluation of Cosmetic and Dermatological Properties of Kombucha-Fermented Berry Leaf Extracts Considered to Be By-Products
Authors: Ziemlewska Aleksandra , Nizioł-Łukaszewska Zofia , Zagórska-Dziok Martyna , Bujak Tomasz , Wójciak Magdalena , Sowa Ireneusz
Published: April 2022

Leaves of Rubus fruticosus L., Vaccinum myrtillus L., Ribes nigrum L. and Fragaria vesca L. are considered agro-waste of the berry industry, but they can be a rich source of valuable bioactive compounds used in cosmetic industry. In this study, kombucha-fermented and non-fermented extracts were compared in terms of chemical composition and biological activity. Polyphenol compounds were identified by HPLC/DAD/ESI-MS. The antioxidant potential was analyzed by evaluating the scavenging of intracellular free radicals contained in keratinocytes and fibroblasts and by DPPH and ABTS assay, obtaining a higher radical scavenging capacity for the ferments, especially for R. fruticosus and V. myrtillus ferments. Assessment of the cytotoxicity on skin cell lines showed their positive effect on the viability of fibroblasts and keratinocytes (especially for the ferments after 10 days of fermentation). The potential anti-ageing properties were determined by their ability to inhibit the activity of metalloproteinases, obtaining almost 30% inhibition of collagenase and elastase in the case of fermented V. myrtillus. Moreover, when the samples were applied to the skin, the positive effect of ferments on skin hydration and pH was demonstrated, which indicates that kombucha berry leaf extracts may be an innovative cosmetic ingredient.
Clinical Practice in the Prevention, Diagnosis and Treatment of Vitamin D Deficiency: A Central and Eastern European Expert Consensus Statement
Authors: Pludowski Pawel , Takacs Istvan , Boyanov Mihail , Belaya Zhanna , Diaconu Camelia C. , Mokhort Tatiana , Zherdova Nadiia , Rasa Ingvars , Payer Juraj , Pilz Stefan
Published: April 2022

Vitamin D deficiency has a high worldwide prevalence, but actions to improve this public health problem are challenged by the heterogeneity of nutritional and clinical vitamin D guidelines, with respect to the diagnosis and treatment of vitamin D deficiency. We aimed to address this issue by providing respective recommendations for adults, developed by a European expert panel, using the Delphi method to reach consensus. Increasing the awareness of vitamin D deficiency and efforts to harmonize vitamin D guidelines should be pursued. We argue against a general screening for vitamin D deficiency but suggest 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) testing in certain risk groups. We recommend a vitamin D supplementation dose of 800 to 2000 international units (IU) per day for adults who want to ensure a sufficient vitamin D status. These doses are also recommended for the treatment of vitamin D deficiency, but higher vitamin D doses (e.g., 6000 IU per day) may be used for the first 4 to 12 weeks of treatment if a rapid correction of vitamin D deficiency is clinically indicated before continuing, with a maintenance dose of 800 to 2000 IU per day. Treatment success may be evaluated after at least 6 to 12 weeks in certain risk groups (e.g., patients with malabsorption syndromes) by measurement of serum 25(OH)D, with the aim to target concentrations of 30 to 50 ng/mL (75 to 125 nmol/L).