bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical Evaluation of Cortical Bone Trajectory Fixation with Traditional Pedicle Screw in the Lumbar Spine: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Su Kuo-Chih , Chen Kun-Hui , Pan Chien-Chou , Lee Cheng-Hung
Published: November 2021

Cortical bone trajectory (CBT) is increasingly used in spinal surgery. Although there are many biomechanical studies, the biomechanical effect of CBT in combination with traditional pedicle screws is not detailed. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of the traditional pedicle screw and CBT screw implantation on the lumbar spine using finite element methods. Based on the combination of the traditional pedicle screw and the CBT system implanted into the lumbar spine, four finite element spinal lumbar models were established. The models were given four different load conditions (flexion, extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation), and the deformation and stress distribution on the finite element model were observed. The results show that there was no significant difference in the structural stability of the lumbar spine model between the traditional pedicle screw system and the CBT system. In addition, CBT may reduce stress on the endplate. Different movements performed by the model may have significant biomechanical effects on the spine and screw system. Clinical spinal surgeons may also consider using the CBT system in revision spinal surgery, which may contribute to smaller wounds.
Hallmarks of Testicular Aging: The Challenge of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Therapies Using Natural and/or Pharmacological Compounds to Improve the Physiopathological Status of the Aged Male Gonad
Authors: Matzkin María Eugenia , Calandra Ricardo Saúl , Rossi Soledad Paola , Bartke Andrzej , Frungieri Mónica Beatriz
Published: November 2021

The evolutionary theory of aging supports a trade-off relationship between reproduction and aging. Aging of the male reproductive system primarily affects the testes, leading to a decrease in the levels of sexual hormones, alterations in sperm quality and production, and a decline in fertility that does not necessarily involve a complete cessation of spermatogenesis. Inflammation, oxidation, and apoptosis are events considered as predictors of pathogenesis and the development of age-related diseases that are frequently observed in aged testes. Although the molecular mechanisms are still poorly understood, accumulating evidence points toward pro-inflammatory molecules and reactive oxygen species as primary contributing factors for testicular aging. However, the real impact of aging-related testicular alterations on fertility, reproductive health, and life span is far from being fully revealed. This work discusses the current knowledge on the impact of aging in the testis, particularly of aging-related dysregulated inflammation and oxidative damage on the functioning of its different cell populations. More interestingly, this review covers the potential benefits of anti-aging interventions and therapies using either pharmacological compounds (such as non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication) or more natural alternatives (such as various nutraceuticals or even probiotics) that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. Some of these are currently being investigated or are already in clinical use to delay or prevent testicular aging.
Requirements Elicitation for an Assistance System for Complexity Management in Product Development of SMEs during COVID-19: A Case Study
Authors: Herrmann Jan-Phillip , Imort Sebastian , Trojanowski Christoph , Deuter Andreas
Published: November 2021

Technological progress, upcoming cyber-physical systems, and limited resources confront small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the challenge of complexity management in product development projects spanning over the entire product lifecycle. SMEs require a solution for documenting and analyzing the functional relationships between multiple domains such as products, software, and processes. The German research project FuPEP “Funktionsorientiertes Komplexitätsmanagement in allen Phasen der Produktentstehung” aims to address this issue by developing an assistance system that supports product developers by visualizing functional relationships. This paper presents the methodology and results of the assistance system’s requirements elicitation with two SMEs. Conducting the elicitation during a global pandemic, we discuss its application using specific techniques in light of COVID-19. We model problems and their effects regarding complexity management in product development in a system dynamics model. The most important requirements and use cases elicited are presented, and the requirements elicitation methodology and results are discussed. Additionally, we present a multilayer software architecture design of the assistance system. Our case study suggests a relationship between fear of a missing project focus among project participants and the restriction of requirements elicitation techniques to those possible via web conferencing tools.
Design and Implementation of Modified INC, Conventional INC, and Fuzzy Logic Controllers Applied to a PV System under Variable Weather Conditions
Authors: Bouksaim Maroua , Mekhfioui Mohcin , Srifi Mohamed Nabil
Published: November 2021

Maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms are used in photovoltaic applications to extract the maximum power that the photovoltaic (PV) panel can produce, which depends on two inputs that are: temperature and irradiance. A DC-DC converter is inserted between the photovoltaic panel and the load to obtain the desired voltage level on the load side. In this paper, incremental conductance (INC) algorithm, modified INC, and fuzzy logic controller (FLC) are designed and assessed to improve energy conversion efficiency. These algorithms are applied to the control of boost converter for tracking the maximum power point (MPP). The modified INC offers fast response and good performance in terms of oscillations than conventional INC and FLC. The Matlab/Simulink environment is used to analyze, interpret the simulation results, and show the performances of each algorithm; and Proteus-based Arduino environment is used to implement the three methods in order to compare the Matlab simulation results with measurements acquired during implementation that is similar to real experiment.
Whole-Body [18F]FDG PET/CT Can Alter Diagnosis in Patients with Suspected Rheumatic Disease
Authors: Fröhlich Matthias , Serfling Sebastian , Higuchi Takahiro , Pomper Martin G. , Rowe Steven P. , Schmalzing Marc , Tony Hans-Peter , Gernert Michael , Strunz Patrick-Pascal , Portegys Jan , Schwaneck Eva-Christina , Gadeholt Ottar , Weich Alexander , Buck Andreas K. , Bley Thorsten A. , Guggenberger Konstanze V. , Werner Rudolf A.
Published: November 2021

The 2-deoxy-d-[18F]fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) is widely utilized to assess the vascular and articular inflammatory burden of patients with a suspected diagnosis of rheumatic disease. We aimed to elucidate the impact of [18F]FDG PET/CT on change in initially suspected diagnosis in patients at the time of the scan. Thirty-four patients, who had undergone [18F]FDG PET/CT, were enrolled and the initially suspected diagnosis prior to [18F]FDG PET/CT was compared to the final diagnosis. In addition, a semi-quantitative analysis including vessel wall-to-liver (VLR) and joint-to-liver (JLR) ratios was also conducted. Prior to [18F]FDG PET/CT, 22/34 (64.7%) of patients did not have an established diagnosis, whereas in 7/34 (20.6%), polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) was suspected, and in 5/34 (14.7%), giant cell arteritis (GCA) was suspected by the referring rheumatologists. After [18F]FDG PET/CT, the diagnosis was GCA in 19/34 (55.9%), combined GCA and PMR (GCA + PMR) in 9/34 (26.5%) and PMR in the remaining 6/34 (17.6%). As such, [18F]FDG PET/CT altered suspected diagnosis in 28/34 (82.4%), including in all unclear cases. VLR of patients whose final diagnosis was GCA tended to be significantly higher when compared to VLR in PMR (GCA, 1.01 ± 0.08 (95%CI, 0.95–1.1) vs. PMR, 0.92 ± 0.1 (95%CI, 0.85–0.99), p = 0.07), but not when compared to PMR + GCA (1.04 ± 0.14 (95%CI, 0.95–1.13), p = 1). JLR of individuals finally diagnosed with PMR (0.94 ± 0.16, (95%CI, 0.83–1.06)), however, was significantly increased relative to JLR in GCA (0.58 ± 0.04 (95%CI, 0.55–0.61)) and GCA + PMR (0.64 ± 0.09 (95%CI, 0.57–0.71); p < 0.0001, respectively). In individuals with a suspected diagnosis of rheumatic disease, an inflammatory-directed [18F]FDG PET/CT can alter diagnosis in the majority of the cases, particularly in subjects who were referred because of diagnostic uncertainty. Semi-quantitative assessment may be helpful in establishing a final diagnosis of PMR, supporting the notion that a quantitative whole-body read-out may be useful in unclear cases.
Volumetric Imaging of Lung Tissue at Micrometer Resolution: Clinical Applications of Micro-CT for the Diagnosis of Pulmonary Diseases
Authors: Bompoti Andreana , Papazoglou Andreas S. , Moysidis Dimitrios V. , Otountzidis Nikolaos , Karagiannidis Efstratios , Stalikas Nikolaos , Panteris Eleftherios , Ganesh Vijayakumar , Sanctuary Thomas , Arvanitidis Christos , Sianos Georgios , Michaelson James S. , Herrmann Markus D.
Published: November 2021

Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is a promising novel medical imaging modality that allows for non-destructive volumetric imaging of surgical tissue specimens at high spatial resolution. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive assessment of the clinical applications of micro-CT for the tissue-based diagnosis of lung diseases. This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews, aiming to include every clinical study reporting on micro-CT imaging of human lung tissues. A literature search yielded 570 candidate articles, out of which 37 were finally included in the review. Of the selected studies, 9 studies explored via micro-CT imaging the morphology and anatomy of normal human lung tissue; 21 studies investigated microanatomic pulmonary alterations due to obstructive or restrictive lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, and cystic fibrosis; and 7 studies examined the utility of micro-CT imaging in assessing lung cancer lesions (n = 4) or in transplantation-related pulmonary alterations (n = 3). The selected studies reported that micro-CT could successfully detect several lung diseases providing three-dimensional images of greater detail and resolution than routine optical slide microscopy, and could additionally provide valuable volumetric insight in both restrictive and obstructive lung diseases. In conclusion, micro-CT-based volumetric measurements and qualitative evaluations of pulmonary tissue structures can be utilized for the clinical management of a variety of lung diseases. With micro-CT devices becoming more accessible, the technology has the potential to establish itself as a core diagnostic imaging modality in pathology and to enable integrated histopathologic and radiologic assessment of lung cancer and other lung diseases.
Surgical and Radiological Anatomy of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Cadaveric Study
Authors: Raoulis Vasileios , Fyllos Apostolos , Klontzas Michail E. , Chytas Dimitrios , Mitrousias Vasileios , Banios Konstantinos , Maris Thomas G. , Karantanas Apostolos H. , Zibis Aristeidis
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this study was to compare the measurement of several anatomical features of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) between magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and by direct fashion during dissection. We hypothesized that the measurements between these two techniques would agree. MRI of 30 fresh-frozen cadaveric knees was followed by dissection. MPFL patella and femoral attachment were evaluated; their shape, length, and width were measured; and measurements were compared. MRI was deemed unreliable for the determination of several of the aforementioned anatomical features. Important findings include: (a) observations on MPFL attachment at medial patella side and attachment to quadriceps were identical between dissection and MRI; (b) average width at patella insertion was significantly different between the two methods (p = 0.002); and (c) an attachment to the quadriceps tendon was present in 20/30 specimens and d. detailed measurements of a thin, non-linear, and three-dimensional structure, such as the MPFL, cannot be performed on MRI, due to technical difficulties. This anatomical radiological study highlights the shape, anatomical measurements (length and width), and attachment of the MPFL using a relatively large cadaveric sample and suggests that MRI is not reliable for detailed imaging of its three-dimensional anatomy.
Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Characteristics of Microchannel with Oval-Shaped Micro Pin Fins
Authors: Jia Yuting , Huang Jianwei , Wang Jingtao , Li Hongwei
Published: November 2021

A novel microchannel heat sink with oval-shaped micro pin fins (MOPF) is proposed and the characteristics of fluid flow and heat transfer are studied numerically for Reynolds number (Re) ranging from 157 to 668. In order to study the influence of geometry on flow and heat transfer characteristics, three non-dimensional variables are defined, such as the fin axial length ratio (α), width ratio (β), and height ratio (γ). The thermal enhancement factor (η) is adopted as an evaluation criterion to evaluate the best comprehensive thermal-hydraulic performance of MOPF. Results indicate that the oval-shaped pin fins in the microchannel can effectively prevent the rise of heat surface temperature along the flow direction, which improves the temperature distribution uniformity. In addition, results show that for the studied Reynolds number range and microchannel geometries in this paper, the thermal enhancement factor η increases firstly and then decreases with the increase of α and β. In addition, except for Re = 157, η decreases first and then increases with the increase of the fin height ratio γ. The thermal enhancement factor for MOPF with α = 4, β = 0.3, and γ = 0.5 achieves 1.56 at Re = 668. The results can provide a theoretical basis for the design of a microchannel heat exchanger.
Theoretical and Experimental Substractions of Device Temperature Determination Utilizing I-V Characterization Applied on AlGaN/GaN HEMT
Authors: Florovič Martin , Kováč Jaroslav , Chvála Aleš , Kováč Jaroslav , Jacquet Jean-Claude , Delage Sylvain Laurent
Published: November 2021

A differential analysis of electrical attributes, including the temperature profile and trapping phenomena is introduced using a device analytical spatial electrical model. The resultant current difference caused by the applied voltage variation is divided into isothermal and thermal sections, corresponding to the instantaneous time- or temperature-dependent change. The average temperature relevance is explained in the theoretical section with respect to the thermal profile and major parameters of the device at the operating point. An ambient temperature variation method has been used to determine device average temperature under quasi-static state and pulse operation, was compared with respect to the threshold voltage shift of a high-electron-mobility transistor (HEMT). The experimental sections presents theoretical subtractions of average channel temperature determination including trapping phenomena adapted for the AlGaN/GaN HEMT. The theoretical results found using the analytical model, allow for the consolidation of specific methodologies for further research to determine the device temperature based on spatially distributed and averaged parameters.
Paradigm Shifting—The Use of Mobile Communications at Work and the Subsequent Effects
Authors: Bocean Claudiu George , Puiu Silvia , Vărzaru Anca Antoaneta
Published: November 2021

The physical distancing measures generated by the COVID-19 pandemic have forced companies to rethink employment patterns and to pay much more attention to the possibility of carrying out work through telework. The expansion of telework, a phenomenon that manifested itself even before the pandemic’s health crisis, has gained a particular momentum, changing how work is carried out. The main purpose of this paper is to study the main macroeconomic effects of the accelerated expansion of telework on the economic performance and the employment structure by the economic sectors of the workforce. Using artificial neural network analysis and structured equation modeling, the study highlights the significant influences of telework on economic performance and speeding up the transition service-based economy. The share of teleworkers has a significantly positive influence on economic performance. Moreover, the employees’ use of computers, mobile devices, and the internet has a strong mediation effect on the relationship between telework and employment in services. Given these considerations, teleworking is a phenomenon that will become a permanent feature of the future.
Demonstration of Blockchain Based Peer to Peer Energy Trading System with Real-Life Used PHEV and HEMS Charge Control
Authors: Matsuda Yuki , Yamazaki Yuto , Oki Hiromu , Takeda Yasuhiro , Sagawa Daishi , Tanaka Kenji
Published: November 2021

To further implement decentralized renewable energy resources, blockchain based peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading is gaining attention and its architecture has been proposed with virtual demonstrations. In this paper, to further socially implement this concept, a blockchain based peer to peer energy trading system which could coordinate with energy control hardware was constructed, and a demonstration experiment was conducted. Previous work focused on virtually matching energy supply and demand via blockchain P2P energy markets, and our work pushes this forward by demonstrating the possibility of actual energy flow control. In this demonstration, Plug-in Hybrid Electrical Vehicles(PHEVs) and Home Energy Management Systems(HEMS) actually used in daily life were controlled in coordination with the blockchain system. In construction, the need of a multi-tagged continuous market was found and proposed. In the demonstration experiment, the proposed blockchain market and hardware control interface was proven capable of securing and stably transmitting energy within the P2P energy system. Also, by the implementation of multi-tagged energy markets, the number of transactions required to secure the required amount of electricity was reduced.
Rotor Position Synchronization in Central-Converter Multi-Motor Electric Actuation Systems
Authors: Lima Cláudio de Andrade , Cale James , Shahroudi Kamran Eftekhari
Published: November 2021

The aerospace industry is increasingly transitioning from hydraulic and pneumatic drives to power-electronic based drive systems for reduced weight and maintenance. Electromechanical thrust reverse actuation systems (EM-TRAS) are currently being considered as a replacement for mechanical based TRAS for future aircraft. An EM-TRAS consists of one or more power-electronic drives, electrical motors, and gear-trains that extend/retract mechanical members to produce a drag force that decelerates the aircraft upon landing. The use of a single (“central”) power electronic converter to simultaneously control a set of parallel induction machines is a potentially inexpensive and robust method for implementing EM-TRAS. However, because the electrical motors may experience different shaft torques—arising from differences in wind forces and a flexible nacelle—a method to implement rotor position synchronization in central-converter multi-motor (CCMM) architectures is needed. This paper introduces a novel method for achieving position synchronization within CCMM architecture by using closed-loop feedback of variable stator resistances in parallel induction machines. The feasibility of the method is demonstrated in several case studies using electromagnetic transient simulation on a set of parallel induction machines experiencing different load torque conditions, with the central converter implementing both voltage-based and current-based primary control strategies. The key result of the paper is that the CCMM architecture with proposed feedback control strategy is shown in these case studies to dynamically drive the position synchronization error to zero. The initial findings indicate that the CCMM architecture with induction motors may be a viable option for implementing EM-TRAS in future aircraft.
Assessment and Perspectives of Heat Transfer Fluids for CSP Applications
Authors: Giaconia Alberto , Tizzoni Anna Chiara , Sau Salvatore , Corsaro Natale , Mansi Emiliana , Spadoni Annarita , Delise Tiziano
Published: November 2021

Different fluid compositions have been considered as heat transfer fluids (HTF) for concentrating solar power (CSP) applications. In linear focusing CSP systems synthetic oils are prevalently employed; more recently, the use of molten salt mixtures in linear focusing CSP systems has been proposed too. This paper presents a comparative assessment of thermal oils and five four nitrate/nitrite mixtures, among the ones mostly employed or proposed so far for CSP applications. The typical medium-size CSP plant (50 MWe) operating with synthetic oil as HTF and the “solar salt” as TES was considered as a benchmark. In the first part of the paper, physical properties and operation ranges of different HTFs are reviewed; corrosion and environmental issues are highlighted too. Besides an extensive review of HTFs based on data available from the open literature, the authors report their own obtained experimental data needed to thoroughly compare different solutions. In the second part of the paper, the impact of the different HTF options on the design and operation of CSP plants are analyzed from techno-economic perspectives.
Natural Convection Effect on Solidification Enhancement in a Multi-Tube Latent Heat Storage System: Effect of Tubes’ Arrangement
Authors: Tiji Mohammadreza , Mahdi Jasim , Mohammed Hayder , Majdi Hasan , Ebrahimi Abbas , Mahani Rohollah , Talebizadehsardari Pouyan , Yaïci Wahiba
Published: November 2021

The solidification process in a multi-tube latent heat energy system is affected by the natural convection and the arrangement of heat exchanger tubes, which changes the buoyancy effect as well. In the current work, the effect of the arrangement of the tubes in a multi-tube heat exchanger was examined during the solidification process with the focus on the natural convection effects inside the phase change material (PCM). The behavior of the system was numerically analyzed using liquid fraction and energy released, as well as temperature, velocity and streamline profiles for different studied cases. The arrangement of the tubes, considering seven pipes in the symmetrical condition, are assumed at different positions in the system, including uniform distribution of the tubes as well as non-uniform distribution, i.e., tubes concentrated at the bottom, middle and the top of the PCM shell. The model was first validated compared with previous experimental work from the literature. The results show that the heat rate removal from the PCM after 16 h was 52.89 W (max) and 14.85 W (min) for the cases of uniform tube distribution and tubes concentrated at the bottom, respectively, for the proposed dimensions of the heat exchanger. The heat rate removal of the system with uniform tube distribution increases when the distance between the tubes and top of the shell reduces, and increased equal to 68.75 W due to natural convection effect. The heat release rate also reduces by increasing the temperature the tubes. The heat removal rate increases by 7.5%, and 23.7% when the temperature increases from 10 °C to 15 °C and 20 °C, respectively. This paper reveals that specific consideration to the arrangement of the tubes should be made to enhance the heat recovery process attending natural convection effects in phase change heat storage systems.
Impact of Blow-By Gas and Endgap Ring Position on the Variations of Particle Emissions in Gasoline Engines
Authors: Berthome Vincent , Chalet David , Hetet Jean-François
Published: November 2021

Particulate emission from internal combustion engines is a complex phenomenon that needs to be understood in order to identify its main factors. To this end, it appears necessary to study the impact of unburned gases, called blow-by gases, which are reinjected into the engine intake system. A series of transient tests demonstrate their significant contribution since the particle emissions of spark-ignition engines are 1.5 times higher than those of an engine without blow-by with a standard deviation 1.5 times greater. After analysis, it is found that the decanter is not effective enough to remove completely the oil from the gases. Tests without blow-by gases also have the advantage of having a lower disparity, and therefore of being more repeatable. It appears that the position of the “endgap” formed by the first two rings has a significant impact on the amount of oil transported towards the combustion chamber by the backflow, and consequently on the variation of particle emissions. For this engine and for this transient, 57% of the particulate emissions are related to the equivalence ratio, while 31% are directly related to the ability of the decanter to remove the oil of the blowby gases and 12% of the emissions come from the backflow. The novelty of this work is to relate the particles fluctuation to the position of the endgap ring.
Electric Field Distribution and AC Breakdown Characteristics of Polluted Novel Lightning Protection Insulator under Icing Conditions
Authors: Lu Jiazheng , Hu Jianping , Fang Zhen , Qiao Xinhan , Zhang Zhijin
Published: November 2021

As a result of lightning strikes, pollution, and ice, overhead distribution wires might be short-circuited and trip. As a result, researchers have developed a new lightning protection composite insulator. There is still a need to test its pollution and icing performance. Based on the finite element and field test method, this paper studies the electric field distribution and AC (Alternating Current) breakdown characteristics of polluted novel lightning protection insulators under icing conditions. Firstly, the finite element calculated results show that this novel insulator’s electric field distribution is different from that of a conventional insulator. The locations with sizeable electric fields are located in the insulation section, and the electric field in the arrester section is tiny. In addition, when the insulator surface is covered with ice, there is an increase in the electric field along the surface and pin electrodes. Compared with the dry conditions, when there is an ice layer and icicle, electric field peaks increase by 48.85% and 46.08%, respectively. Secondly, the test results show that there are three types of arc paths in different pollution levels. The arc paths are related to ESDD (equivalent salt deposit density) under icing conditions. Uf shows a downward trend with increased pollution levels, and the maximum flashover voltage is 2.70 times more than the minimum. Finally, four fitting methods are proposed in this paper. After comparing the goodness of fit of different functions, the quadratic function and negative power function with the constant term are recommended as empirical formulas for calculating flashover voltage of novel insulators under icing conditions in different pollution levels. The research results of this paper have a specific guiding role for the selection of the external insulation of transmission lines and structural optimization of novel insulators.
Co-Optimization of CO2 Storage and Enhanced Gas Recovery Using Carbonated Water and Supercritical CO2
Authors: Omar Abdirizak , Addassi Mouadh , Vahrenkamp Volker , Hoteit Hussein
Published: November 2021

CO2-based enhanced gas recovery (EGR) is an appealing method with the dual benefit of improving recovery from mature gas reservoirs and storing CO2 in the subsurface, thereby reducing net emissions. However, CO2 injection for EGR has the drawback of excessive mixing with the methane gas, therefore, reducing the quality of gas produced and leading to an early breakthrough of CO2. Although this issue has been identified as a major obstacle in CO2-based EGR, few strategies have been suggested to mitigate this problem. We propose a novel hybrid EGR method that involves the injection of a slug of carbonated water before beginning CO2 injection. While still ensuring CO2 storage, carbonated water hinders CO2-methane mixing and reduces CO2 mobility, therefore delaying breakthrough. We use reservoir simulation to assess the feasibility and benefit of the proposed method. Through a structured design of experiments (DoE) framework, we perform sensitivity analysis, uncertainty assessment, and optimization to identify the ideal operation and transition conditions. Results show that the proposed method only requires a small amount of carbonated water injected up to 3% pore volumes. This EGR scheme is mainly influenced by the heterogeneity of the reservoir, slug volume injected, and production rates. Through Monte Carlo simulations, we demonstrate that high recovery factors and storage ratios can be achieved while keeping recycled CO2 ratios low.
Green Logistics Practices Seeking Development of Sustainability: Evidence from Lithuanian Transportation and Logistics Companies
Authors: Vienažindienė Milita , Tamulienė Vilma , Zaleckienė Jurgita
Published: November 2021

Reducing the harmful effects on the environment and increasing the expression of sustainable development principles is one of the most topical challenges all around the world. Given the importance of logistics for the economy and the growing concern for the environment, the purpose of this article was to reveal a green logistics (GL) practice framework for sustainable development. Based on a systematic and comparative analysis of the scientific literature, the authors present a theoretical conceptual model for applying GL practices to sustainable development. In order to assess the expression of GL practices and their determinants in Lithuanian transport and logistics services companies, a quantitative questionnaire survey was conducted. Descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses were used to analyze the data. The results made it possible to identify GL areas such as green transportation, green warehousing, green management, sustainable waste management, and the prevailing GL practices in Lithuania: “Eco-driving”, “Optimization of transport routes”, and “Optimization of transport cargo distribution”. The factors that most encouraged the application of GL practices in the studied companies were: legal regulation and policies, requirements of business partners, service users, customers and society, awareness of the company’s top management, and corporate culture focused on environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Renewable Energy and CO2 Emissions: Empirical Evidence from Major Energy-Consuming Countries
Authors: Huang Yongming , Kuldasheva Zebo , Salahodjaev Raufhon
Published: November 2021

The goal of this study was to contribute to the ongoing debate on the relationship between renewable energy (RE) and CO2 emissions. In particular, we explored the link between RE and CO2 emissions in a sample of major renewable energy-consuming countries for the period 2000–2015. Therefore, the major contribution of this study was to answer the question of whether a substantial shift to renewable energy consumption will lead to lower CO2 emissions. Using the two-step generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator, our empirical results suggested that RE has a significant negative effect on CO2 emissions. For example, a one percentage point increase in RE leads to a 0.5% decrease in CO2 emissions.
Directions and Prospects for the Development of the Electric Car Market in Selected ASEAN Countries
Authors: Gomółka Krystyna , Kasprzak Piotr
Published: November 2021

The purpose of this article is to present the current situation and evaluate the opportunities for the development of the electric car market in selected Southeast Asian countries in the context of the current situation in the rest of the world. Currently, the electric car market is at an advanced stage of development in regions such as Western Europe, the USA, and China. It should be noted, however, that the number of electric cars in a given country results not only from market demand and access to vehicle charging networks but also from nonmarket mechanisms such as subsidies and tax or administrative solutions. It turns out that these are important elements that influence the final shape of a country’s market. This article analyses the current situation on the electric car market taking into account the legal, administrative, and tax conditions that affect the final number of vehicles and the infrastructure necessary for the operation and use of electric cars in selected Asian countries.
The Effects of the Length and Conductivity of Artificial Fracture on Gas Production from a Class 3 Hydrate Reservoir
Authors: Shang Shilong , Gu Lijuan , Lu Hailong
Published: November 2021

Natural gas hydrate is considered as a potential energy resource. To develop technologies for the exploitation of natural gas hydrate, several field gas production tests have been carried out in permafrost and continental slope sediments. However, the gas production rates in these tests were still limited, and the low permeability of the hydrate-bearing sediments is identified as one of the crucial factors. Artificial fracturing is proposed to promote gas production rate by improving reservoir permeability. In this research, numerical studies about the effect of fracture length and fluid conductivity on production performance were carried out on an artificially fractured Class 3 hydrate reservoir (where the single hydrate zone is surrounded by an overlaying and underlying hydrate-free zone), in which the equivalent conductivity method was applied to depict the artificial fracture. The results show that artificial fracture can enhance gas production by offering an extra fluid flow channel for the migration of gas released from hydrate dissociation. The effect of fracture length on production is closely related to the time frame of production, and gas production improvement by enlarging the fracture length is observed after a certain production duration. Through the production process, secondary hydrate formation is absent in the fracture, and the high conductivity in the fracture is maintained. The results indicate that the increase in fracture conductivity has a limited effect on enhancing gas production.
Food Myths or Food Facts? Study about Perceptions and Knowledge in a Portuguese Sample
Authors: Florença Sofia G. , Ferreira Manuela , Lacerda Inês , Maia Aline
Published: November 2021

Food myths are nutritional concepts poorly justified or even contradict existing scientific evidence that individuals take as the truth. Knowledge in nutrition is an important tool in tackling misinformation and in the promotion of adequate food choices. This study aimed to investigate the beliefs and perceptions of a sample of the Portuguese population regarding a series of food myths and facts, evaluating, consequently, the level of knowledge and the main sources of information. The research was conducted on a sample of 503 participants, using a questionnaire disclosed online, by email, and social networks, between May and June of 2021. Thirty statements, some true and others false, were analyzed to assess people’s perceptions. Based on the respondents’ answers, a score was calculated for each statement, allowing to differentiate the correct (positive score) from incorrect (negative score) perceptions. The results showed that most statements obtained positive scores, corresponding to correct perceptions. Moreover, the level of knowledge was measured, being very high for 21.7% of the participants and high for 42.1%. The main sources where the participants acquire nutritional information are scientific journals (43.3%), website of the Portuguese General Health Office (DGS) (31.4%), and technical books (31.0%), which is concordant with the level of trust in these sources. Hence, it was concluded that, despite the levels of nutritional knowledge, there are still several food myths that need to be debunked, through the proper channels, in order to promote healthy, balanced, and adequate eating behaviors.
Impact of Pre-Mortem Factors on Meat Quality: An Update
Authors: Kaneko Gen
Published: November 2021

Meat quality is closely associated with the chemical composition of skeletal muscle and is therefore influenced by the pre-mortem metabolic state of skeletal muscle tissue [...]
Enterococci from Raw-Milk Cheeses: Current Knowledge on Safety, Technological, and Probiotic Concerns
Authors: Terzić-Vidojević Amarela , Veljović Katarina , Popović Nikola , Tolinački Maja , Golić Nataša
Published: November 2021

The present study is focused on the safety, technological characteristics, and probiotic evaluation of Enterococcus species from different artisanal raw milk dairy products, mainly cheeses with ripening. Apart from proteolytic and lipolytic activities, most enterococci show the ability to metabolize citrate and convert it to various aromatic compounds. Long-ripened cheeses therefore have a specific flavor that makes them different from cheeses produced from thermally treated milk with commercial starter cultures. In addition, enterococci are producers of bacteriocins effective against spoilage and pathogenic bacteria, so they can be used as food preservatives. However, the use of enterococci in the dairy industry should be approached with caution. Although originating from food, enterococci strains may carry various virulence factors and antibiotic-resistance genes and can have many adverse effects on human health. Still, despite their controversial status, the use of enterococci in the food industry is not strictly regulated since the existence of these so-called desirable and undesirable traits in enterococci is a strain-dependent characteristic. To be specific, the results of many studies showed that there are some enterococci strains that are safe for use as starter cultures or as probiotics since they do not carry virulence factors and antibiotic-resistance genes. These strains even exhibit strong health-promoting effects such as stimulation of the immune response, anti-inflammatory activity, hypocholesterolemic action, and usefulness in prevention/treatment of some diseases.
Metabolism of Selected 2-Arylbenzofurans in a Colon In Vitro Model System
Authors: Vesely Ondrej , Marsik Petr , Jarosova Veronika , Doskocil Ivo , Smejkal Karel , Kloucek Pavel , Havlik Jaroslav
Published: November 2021

2-arylbenzofurans represent a small group of bioactive compounds found in the plant family Moraceae. As it has not been investigated whether these substances are stable during passage through the gastrointestinal tract, their biological effects may be altered by the metabolism of intestinal microbiota or cells. The aim of the present study was to investigate and compare mulberrofuran Y (1), moracin C (2), and mulberrofuran G (3) in an in vitro model of human intestinal bacterial fermentation and in an epithelial model using the Caco-2 cell line. The analysis of compounds by LC-MS-Q-TOF showed sufficient stability in the fermentation model, with no bacterial metabolites detected. However, great differences in the quantity of permeation were observed in the permeability assay. Moreover, mulberrofuran Y (1) and moracin C (2) were observed to be transformed into polar metabolites by conjugation. Among the test compounds, mulberrofuran Y (1) was mostly stable and accumulated in endothelial cells (85.3%) compared with mulberrofuran G (3) and moracin C (2) (14% and 8.2%, respectively). Thus, only a small amount of mulberrofuran Y (1) was conjugated. Moracin C (2) and mulberrofuran G (3) were metabolized almost completely, with only traces of the unchanged molecule being found on the apical and cellular sides of the system. Only conjugates of mulberrofuran Y (1) and moracin C (2) were able to reach the basolateral side. Our results provide the basic description of bioavailability of these three compounds, which is a necessary characteristic for final evaluation of bio-efficacy.
A Physiological-Based Model for Simulating the Bioavailability and Kinetics of Sulforaphane from Broccoli Products
Authors: Shekarri Quchat , Dekker Matthijs
Published: November 2021

There are no known physiological-based digestion models that depict glucoraphanin (GR) to sulforaphane (SR) conversion and subsequent absorption. The aim of this research was to make a physiological-based digestion model that includes SR formation, both by endogenous myrosinase and gut bacterial enzymes, and to simulate the SR bioavailability. An 18-compartment model (mouth, two stomach, seven small intestine, seven large intestine, and blood compartments) describing transit, reactions and absorption was made. The model, consisting of differential equations, was fit to data from a human intervention study using Mathwork’s Simulink and Matlab software. SR urine metabolite data from participants who consumed different broccoli products were used to estimate several model parameters and validate the model. The products had high, medium, low, and zero myrosinase content. The model’s predicted values fit the experimental values very well. Parity plots showed that the predicted values closely matched experimental values for the high (r2 = 0.95), and low (r2 = 0.93) products, but less so for the medium (r2 = 0.85) and zero (r2 = 0.78) myrosinase products. This is the first physiological-based model to depict the unique bioconversion processes of bioactive SR from broccoli. This model represents a preliminary step in creating a predictive model for the biological effect of SR, which can be used in the growing field of personalized nutrition.
Spatiotemporal Variation in Bicycle Road Crashes and Traffic Volume in Berlin: Implications for Future Research, Planning, and Network Design
Authors: Medeiros Rafael Milani , Bojic Iva , Jammot-Paillet Quentin
Published: November 2021

Urban bicycling has been largely marginalized for decades in the global north and south. Despite a renaissance over the last two decades in academic research, political discourse, sustainability activism, and planning, cities often struggle with data quality and quantity. Digitalization has led to more and better data sources, but they still must be validated and compared with findings from conventional travel surveys. With the COVID-19 pandemic, bicycling and associated road facilities expanded, as did road crashes involving bicycles. This study utilized tens of thousands of datapoints sourced by public institutions and digital devices belonging to private companies that have spread across Berlin over the last ten years and are currently ubiquitous. What does an integrated analysis of data from these novel sources reveal for urban bicycling research, planning, and network design? We explored and visualized the relationships and spatiotemporal variations in (i) bicycling volumes and (ii) crashes, unveiling the (iii) distribution of and correlation between datasets and the city’s bikeway network at an unprecedented threshold. The findings can be useful for special interest groups and to guide future urban bicycling research, planning, and network design.
Metamodel-Based Slope Reliability Analysis—Case of Spatially Variable Soils Considering a Rotated Anisotropy
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Guo Xiangfeng , Baroth Julien , Dias Daniel
Published: November 2021

A rotation of the anisotropic soil fabric pattern is commonly observed in natural slopes with a tilted stratification. This study investigates the rotated anisotropy effects on slope reliability considering spatially varied soils. Karhunen–Loève expansion is used to generate the random fields of the soil shear strength properties (i.e., cohesion and friction angle). The presented probabilistic analyses are based on a meta-model combining Sparse Polynomial Chaos Expansion (SPCE) and Global Sensitivity Analysis (GSA). This method allows the number of involved random variables to be reduced and then the computational efficiency to be improved. Two kinds of deterministic models, namely a discretization kinematic approach and a finite element limit analysis, are considered. A variety of valuable results (i.e., failure probability, probability density function, statistical moments of model response, and sensitivity indices of input variables) can be effectively provided. Moreover, the influences of the rotated anisotropy, autocorrelation length, coefficient of variation and cross-correlation between the cohesion and friction angle on the probabilistic analysis results are discussed. The rotation of the anisotropic soil stratification has a significant effect on the slope stability, particularly for the cases with large values of autocorrelation length, coefficient of variation, and cross-correlation coefficient.
Visualizing Large-Scale Building Information Modeling Models within Indoor and Outdoor Environments Using a Semantics-Based Method
Authors: Chen Qingxiang , Chen Jing , Huang Wumeng
Published: November 2021

Building information modeling (BIM), with detailed geometry and semantics of the indoor environment, has become an essential part of smart city development and city information modeling (CIM). However, visualizing large-scale BIM models within geographic information systems (GIS), such as virtual globes, remains a technological challenge with limited hardware resources. Previous methods generally removed indoor features in a single-source (BIM) scene to reduce the computational burden from outdoor views, which have not been applied to the multi-source and -scale geographic environment (e.g., virtual globes). This approach neglected special BIM semantics (e.g., transparent windows), which may miss a part of geographic features or buildings and cause unreasonable visualization. Besides, the method overlooked indoor visualization optimization, which may burden computing resources when visualizing big and complex buildings from indoor views. To address these problems, we propose a semantics-based method for visualizing large-scale BIM models within indoor and outdoor environments. First, we organize large-scale BIM models based on a latitude-longitude grid (LLG) in the outdoor environment; a multilayer cell-and-portal graph is used to index the structure of the BIM model and building entities. Second, we propose a scheduling algorithm to achieve the integrated visualization in indoor and outdoor environments considering BIM semantics. The application of the proposed method to a multi-scale and -source environment confirmed that it can achieve an effective and efficient visualization for huge BIM models in indoor-outdoor scenes. Compared with the previous study, the proposed method considers the BIM semantics and thus can visualize more complete features from outdoor and indoor views of BIM models in the virtual globe. Besides, the study only loads as visible data as possible, which can retain lower the volume of increased geometry, and thus keep a higher frame rate for the tested areas.
Recent Trends in Cancer Genomics and Bioinformatics Tools Development
Authors: Anashkina Anastasia A. , Leberfarb Elena Y. , Orlov Yuriy L.
Published: November 2021

We overview recent research trends in cancer genomics, bioinformatics tools development and medical genetics, based on results discussed in papers collections “Medical Genetics, Genomics and Bioinformatics” (https://www [...]