bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Mobile Energy Storage for Enhancing Power Grid Resilience: A Review
Authors: Dugan Jesse , Mohagheghi Salman , Kroposki Benjamin
Published: October 2021

Natural disasters can lead to large-scale power outages, affecting critical infrastructure and causing social and economic damages. These events are exacerbated by climate change, which increases their frequency and magnitude. Improving power grid resilience can help mitigate the damages caused by these events. Mobile energy storage systems, classified as truck-mounted or towable battery storage systems, have recently been considered to enhance distribution grid resilience by providing localized support to critical loads during an outage. Compared to stationary batteries and other energy storage systems, their mobility provides operational flexibility to support geographically dispersed loads across an outage area. This paper provides a comprehensive and critical review of academic literature on mobile energy storage for power system resilience enhancement. As mobile energy storage is often coupled with mobile emergency generators or electric buses, those technologies are also considered in the review. Allocation of these resources for power grid resilience enhancement requires modeling of both the transportation system constraints and the power grid operational constraints. These aspects are discussed, along with a discussion on the cost–benefit analysis of mobile energy resources. The paper concludes by presenting research gaps, associated challenges, and potential future directions to address these challenges.
The Proof-of-Concept: The Transformation of Naphthalene and Its Derivatives into Decalin and Its Derivatives during Thermochemical Processing of Sewage Sludge
Authors: Łyczko Jacek , Koziel Jacek A. , Banik Chumki , Białowiec Andrzej
Published: October 2021

One solution for sewage sludge (SS) management is thermochemical treatment due to torrefaction and pyrolysis with biochar production. SS biochar may contain toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This study aimed to determine the process temperature’s influence on the qualitative PAHs emission from SS-biochar and the transformation of PAHs contained in SS. SS was torrefied/pyrolyzed under temperatures 200–600 °C with 1 h residence time. The headspace solid-phase microextraction (SPME) combined with gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) analytical procedure of VOCs and PAHs emission was applied. The highest abundance of numerous VOCs was found for torrefaction ranges of temperature. The increase of temperatures to the pyrolytic range decreased the presence of VOCs and PAHs in biochar. The most common VOCs emitted from thermally processed SS were acetone, 2-methylfuran, 2-butanone, 3-metylbutanal, benzene, decalin, and acetic acid. The naphthalene present in SS converted to decalin (and other decalin derivatives), which may lead to SS biochar being considered hazardous material.
Analysis of the Suitability of Signal Features for Individual Sensor Types in the Diagnosis of Gradual Tool Wear in Turning
Authors: Kossakowska Joanna , Bombiński Sebastian , Ejsmont Krzysztof
Published: October 2021

There are many items in the literature indicating that certain signal features (SFs) of cutting forces, vibrations or acoustic emission are useful for the diagnosis of tool wear in certain single experiments. There is no answer to whether these SFs are universal. The novelty of this article is an attempt to answer these questions and propose a large set of SFs related to tool wear, but without including superfluous SFs. The analysis of the usefulness of the signal properties for the state of the cutting tool in turning was carried out on a large experiment. A number of various SFs obtained for various signal analysis methods were selected for the study. It is found that no SF is always related to the tool wear, so we define many different signal characteristics that can be related to the tool wear (basic set) and automatically select those associated with it in a given machining case. To this end, the relationship between the measures and the wear of the tool was analyzed. Interrelated measures were excluded from it. The obtained results can be used to build a new generation of more effective tool wear diagnostics systems. One of the goals of the tool wear diagnosis system is to save the energy used. The results can also enable the refinement of existing algorithms that predict the energy consumption of a machine.
Energy Signal-Aided Secure Beamforming and Self-Energy Recycling in Full-Duplex Wireless-Powered Relay Networks
Authors: Ou Lizhen , Chen Peipei , Luo Xueshan , Dang Shuping , Sun Yuchen
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the object of study is secure transmission and green energy transfer in full-duplex (FD) wireless-powered relay (WPR) secure systems, where an FD relay collects the power from radio-frequency signs and transmits the information in the face of multiple eavesdroppers. In order to improve the efficiency and safety of the contemporaneous wireless energy and information delivery, we propose a joint energy-signal- (ES-) aided secure beamforming and time-switch scheme under the self-power circulation protocol at the relay. The question formulated in this paper is to maximize the confidentiality rate according to energy restrictions at both the relay and energy receiver. As the question is non-salient and hard to resolve directly, we transform it into two sub-problems. For the first sub-problem, a two-level optimization technique is suggested to separately gain the optimal beamforming as well as the ES covariance. The extrinsic rank is a single-variable majorization question, which can be solved by single-dimensional (1D) examination. We attain an optimal solution to the inner level by a semi-definite relaxation (SDR) technique. For the second sub-problem, we again use 1D search to solve this problem. Moreover, we prove that SDR always exists as a level-1 optimal resolution. Mathematical outcomes show that the suggested plan can achieve a considerable gain of confidentiality rate by comparison with other benchmark plans.
Design of the Model of Optimization of Energy Efficiency Management Processes at the Regional Level of Slovakia
Authors: Rovňák Martin , Tokarčík Alexander , Štofejová Lenka , Novotný Roman , Adamišin Peter , Bakoň Matúš
Published: October 2021

This paper focuses on the issue of energy efficiency management in the region of Prešov self-governing region (PSR), Slovakia, as the energy market is liberalized and the behavior of electricity consumers is influenced not only by conventional but also by alternative suppliers of this type of energy. Based on the statistical evaluation of a questionnaire survey focused on the emotional, behavioral, and cognitive behavior of consumers, a model of optimization of system processes of energy efficiency management at the regional level is presented. A one-way ANOVA and t-test were used to determine statistically significant differences, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to determine a statistically significant relationship. Based on the obtained results, a suitable candidate for efficient electricity management is an employee aged 36 to 50 with a technical focus. The proposed model of optimizing the processes of energy management efficiency at the regional level can also be applied to the supraregional level in the understanding of the geographical division of the European Union, where the same legislative regulations are applied within the liberalized electricity market.
Generalized Benders Decomposition Method to Solve Big Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Optimization Problems with Convex Objective and Constraints Functions
Authors: Karbowski Andrzej
Published: October 2021

The paper presents the Generalized Benders Decomposition (GBD) method, which is now one of the basic approaches to solve big mixed-integer nonlinear optimization problems. It concentrates on the basic formulation with convex objectives and constraints functions. Apart from the classical projection and representation theorems, a unified formulation of the master problem with nonlinear and linear cuts will be given. For the latter case the most effective and, at the same time, easy to implement computational algorithms will be pointed out.
Search Strategy for Buried Objects in Water: Geophysics, Probes and Dogs
Authors: Ruffell Alastair , Powell Neil
Published: October 2021

The aqueous search for objects covered by sediment is a common and challenging problem. Here we outline a sequential methodology for the assessment of targets identified by sub-bottom profiling. This comprises desktop study of available data; background hydrological information gathering (bathymetry, sediment cover, water chemistry); acoustic sub-bottom imaging (water-penetrating radar, sonar); geolocation and probing of sub-bottom anomalies; and deployment of suitable scent dogs. This procedure creates a hierarchy of targets for examination by dive teams and thence recovery.
Identification and Characterization of HSP90 Gene Family Reveals Involvement of HSP90, GRP94 and Not TRAP1 in Heat Stress Response in Chlamys farreri
Authors: Yu Haitao , Yang Zujing , Sui Mingyi , Cui Chang , Hu Yuqing , Hou Xiujiang , Xing Qiang , Huang Xiaoting , Bao Zhenmin
Published: October 2021

Heat shock proteins 90 (HSP90s) are a class of ubiquitous, highly conserved, and multi-functional molecular chaperones present in all living organisms. They assist protein folding processes to form functional proteins. In the present study, three HSP90 genes, CfHSP90, CfGRP94 and CfTRAP1, were successfully identified in the genome of Chlamys farreri. The length of CfHSP90, CfGRP94 and CfTRAP1 were 7211 bp, 26,457 bp, and 28,699 bp, each containing an open reading frame (ORF) of 2181 bp, 2397 bp, and 2181 bp, and encoding proteins of 726, 798, and 726 amino acids, respectively. A transcriptomic database demonstrated that CfHSP90 and CfGRP94 were the primary functional executors with high expression during larval development and in adult tissues, while CfTRAP1 expression was low. Furthermore, all of the three CfHSP90s showed higher expression in gonads and ganglia as compared with other tissues, which indicated their probable involvement in gametogenesis and nerve signal transmission in C. farreri. In addition, under heat stress, the expressions of CfHSP90 and CfGRP94 were significantly up-regulated in the mantle, gill, and blood, but not in the heart. Nevertheless, the expression of CfTRAP1 did not change significantly in the four tested tissues. Taken together, in coping with heat stress, CfHSP90 and CfGRP94 could help correct protein folding or salvage damaged proteins for cell homeostasis in C. farreri. Collectively, a comprehensive analysis of CfHSP90s in C. farreri was conducted. The study indicates the functional diversity of CfHSP90s in growth, development, and environmental response, and our findings may have implications for the subsequent in-depth exploration of HSP90s in invertebrates.
Differential Assembly and Shifts of the Rhizosphere Bacterial Community by a Dual Transgenic Glyphosate-Tolerant Soybean Line with and without Glyphosate Application
Authors: Yang Minkai , Wen Zhongling , Hao Chenyu , Fazal Aliya , Liao Yonghui , Luo Fuhe , Yao Weixuan , Yin Tongming , Yang Rongwu , Qi Jinliang , Hong Zhi , Lu Guihua , Yang Yonghua
Published: October 2021

Modern agriculture has gained significant economic benefits worldwide with the use of genetically modified (GM) technologies. While GM crops provide convenience to humans, their biosafety has attracted increasing concern. In this study, the Illumina MiSeq was used to perform a high-throughput sequencing of the V3-V4 hypervariable regions of 16S rRNA gene (16S rDNA) amplicons to compare the rhizosphere bacterial communities of the EPSPS/GAT dual transgenic glyphosate-tolerant soybean line Z106, its recipient variety ZH10, and Z106 with glyphosate application (Z106G) during flowering, seed filling, and maturing stages under field settings. At each of the three stages, the alpha and beta diversity of rhizosphere bacterial communities revealed no significant differences between ZH10, Z106, and Z106G. However, some bacterial taxa demonstrated a greater proportional contribution, particularly the nitrogen-fixing rhizobium Ensifer fredii, in the rhizospheric soil of Z106 at the seed filling and maturing stages, when compared to ZH10 and Z106G. The present study therefore suggests that the EPSPS/GAT dual transgenic line Z106 and exogenous glyphosate application have a minimal effect on the composition of the soybean rhizosphere bacterial community but have no impact on the structure of the rhizosphere microbial community during a single planting season.
Comparative Analysis of the Quality of Domestically Distributed Cut Phalaenopsis Flowers Based on the Season and Place of Origin
Authors: Kim Hyun Kyung , Lee Ae Kyung
Published: October 2021

This study compared and analyzed the qualities of cut Phalaenopsis “V3” flowers based on the place of origin and season. An investigation of the senescence type showed that flowers originating from Korea had a higher rate of aging than those from China across all three seasons. Consequently, the vase life was also 3–5 days longer for Chinese flowers than those for Korean flowers, regardless of the season. Furthermore, the vase life was the longest in autumn, followed by spring and summer, with statistically significant differences. With respect to flower diameter, Chinese cut phalaenopsis flowers were relatively larger than the Korean ones on day 1 of the experiment. As the senescence process of wilting was initiated earlier in Korean flowers with a shorter vase life, they showed higher reductions in flower diameters as well. The fresh weight, water uptake, and water balance were lower for Korean flowers than those for Chinese flowers starting on day 5 of the experiment across all three seasons. Korean cut phalaenopsis flowers experienced difficulties in maintaining water levels following their water uptake on day 1, which may have affected their vase life. Ethylene production showed a sharp increase on day 7 in Chinese cut flowers and day 5 in Korean cut flowers, with high amounts typically observed in spring, which coincided with the results of water loss. Hunter values L, a, and b and changes petal color ⊿E significantly differed not by place of origin but by season. Additionally, the sugar content of the solution inside the water tubes used when selling cut phalaenopsis flowers was investigated. Chinese flowers are subjected to pretreatment and posttreatment inside the water tube before being exported, while Korean flowers are treated with tap water. The Chinese flowers contained approximately seven times more sugar content compared to Korean flowers. This suggests that the treatment solution components, including sugar and other ingredients, of the Chinese cut flowers had a positive effect on water uptake and lowered the sensitivity to ethylene, which seemed to have an effect on the long vase life and quality. If Korean cut flowers are also distributed using a treatment agent, it is expected that the vase life will be improved and the satisfaction of consumers will be increased. However, since there are several possibilities that can affect post-harvest quality, it seems that additional experiments are needed. Moreover, as flower quality decreases in summer compared to those in spring or autumn, it will be necessary to reduce the differences in quality between seasons.
The Aconitum carmichaelii F3′5′H Gene Overexpression Increases Flavonoid Accumulation in Transgenic Tobacco Plants
Authors: Nguyen Yen Thi Hai , Hoang Hoan Thi Thu , Mai Anh Thi Hoang , Nguyen Lan Thi Ngoc , Nguyen Quan Huu , Pham Nhan Thi Thanh , Sy Thuong Danh , Chu Mau Hoang
Published: October 2021

Aconitum carmichaelii Debx. is a herbal species that contains many precious bioactive substances, which are alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and glycosides. Flavonoids, which are major secondary compounds, play an important role in maintaining redox balance in the cells of the plant body. Many flavonoids have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. However, studies have mainly focused on aconitine, which is a highly toxic group A poison belonging to the alkaloid group, but with little mention of flavonoids. The flavonoids in A. carmichaelii are a group of substances with high content, concentrated in leaves and flowers, including quercetin and kaempferol. F3′5′H (Flavonoid 3′5′-hydroxylase) has been identified as the key enzyme involved in the final steps of flavonoid biosynthesis in plants in general and in A. carmichaelii specifically. This study offers the first report, and demonstrates that the overexpression of the F3′5′H gene from a herbal plant, A. carmichaelii, increases flavonoid content in genetically modified tobacco plants. The A. carmichaelii gene was transformed into tobacco leaf tissue to create transgenic tobacco plants. The AcF3′5′H gene was incorporated into the tobacco genome and was expressed in four transgenic tobacco lines (T01, T03, T05, and T014). The F3′5′H content increased from 20.33% to 32.00% compared with that in non-transformed plants (P < 0.001). Therefore, the flavonoid content of four transgenic tobacco lines increased compared to the WT, from 69.23% to 122.23% (P < 0.001). The results of the successful expression of the AcF3′5′H gene in model tobacco plants are the basis for using the AcF3′5′H gene for improving flavonoid content in other medicinal plants. Thus, the AcF3′5′H gene considered in this work could be a candidate for gene technology to enhance flavonoid accumulation in plants.
Plant Tolerance to Drought Stress in the Presence of Supporting Bacteria and Fungi: An Efficient Strategy in Horticulture
Authors: Hanaka Agnieszka , Ozimek Ewa , Reszczyńska Emilia , Jaroszuk-Ściseł Jolanta , Stolarz Maria
Published: October 2021

Increasing temperature leads to intensive water evaporation, contributing to global warming and consequently leading to drought stress. These events are likely to trigger modifications in plant physiology and microbial functioning due to the altered availability of nutrients. Plants exposed to drought have developed different strategies to cope with stress by morphological, physiological, anatomical, and biochemical responses. First, visible changes influence plant biomass and consequently limit the yield of crops. The presented review was undertaken to discuss the impact of climate change with respect to drought stress and its impact on the performance of plants inoculated with plant growth-promoting microorganisms (PGPM). The main challenge for optimal performance of horticultural plants is the application of selected, beneficial microorganisms which actively support plants during drought stress. The most frequently described biochemical mechanisms for plant protection against drought by microorganisms are the production of phytohormones, antioxidants and xeroprotectants, and the induction of plant resistance. Rhizospheric or plant surface-colonizing (rhizoplane) and interior (endophytic) bacteria and fungi appear to be a suitable alternative for drought-stress management. Application of various biopreparations containing PGPM seems to provide hope for a relatively cheap, easy to apply and efficient way of alleviating drought stress in plants, with implications in productivity and food condition.
Diagnosis of Dental Fluorosis Using Micro-Raman Spectroscopy Applying a Principal Component-Linear Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Zepeda-Zepeda Marco Antonio , Picquart Michel , Irigoyen-Camacho María Esther , Mejía-Gózalez Adriana Marcela
Published: October 2021

Dental fluorosis is an irreversible condition caused by excessive fluoride consumption during tooth formation and is considered a public health problem in several world regions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the capability of micro-Raman spectroscopy to classify teeth of different fluorosis severities, applying principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis (PCA-LDA), and estimate the model cross-validation accuracy. Forty teeth of different fluorosis severities and a control group were analyzed. Ten spectra were captured from each tooth and a total of 400 micro-Raman spectra were acquired in the wavenumber range of 250 to 1200 cm−1, including the bands corresponding to stretching and bending internal vibrational modes ν1, ν2, ν3, and ν4 (PO43−). From the analysis of the micro-Raman spectra an increase in B-type carbonate ion substitution into the phosphate site of the hydroxyapatite as fluorosis severity increases was identified. The PCA-LDA model showed a sensitivity and specificity higher than 94% and 93% for the different fluorosis severity groups, respectively. The cross-validation accuracy was higher than 90%. Micro-Raman spectroscopy combined with PCA-LDA provides an adequate tool for the diagnosis of fluorosis severity. This is a non-invasive and non-destructive technique with promising applications in clinical and epidemiological fields.
Structural Relationship between Korean Adolescent’s Sports Participation, Optimism, Pessimism, Self-Regulation, and Coronavirus-Related Stress in the Pandemic Situation
Authors: Song Ho-Hyun , Lee Dae-Jung
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to examine the relationships between sports participation, optimism/pessimism, self-regulation, and coronavirus-related stress in Korean adolescents during the pandemic situation. Specifically, we attempted to offer valuable information that could help to alleviate coronavirus-related stress in adolescents by promoting participation in sports and the development of optimism and self-regulation. To achieve this aim, we conducted an online survey of 836 Korean adolescents in the pilot and main studies. Confirmatory factor, frequency, path, reliability, descriptive statistical, and multimedia analyses were performed. Our findings indicated several differences for each variable according to demographic characteristics. Sports participation exerted a positive effect on optimism (p < 0.001) and self-regulation (p < 0.01) and negative effects on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.05) and pessimism (p < 0.001). In addition, optimism exerted a positive effect on self-regulation (p < 0.001) and a negative effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.001), while pessimism exerted a negative effect on self-regulation (p < 0.01) and a positive effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.001). Further analysis indicated that self-regulation had a negative effect on coronavirus-related stress (p < 0.05). These findings highlight the need for youth educational institutions to encourage adolescents to participate in sports and for organizing bodies to suggest various policies and provide education that can assist them in properly coping with and overcoming coronavirus-related stress by strengthening their optimistic attitude and self-regulation ability.
COPD Diagnosis: Time for Disruption
Authors: Wouters Emiel F. M. , Breyer Marie K. , Breyer-Kohansal Robab , Hartl Sylvia
Published: October 2021

Articulating a satisfactory definition of a disease is surprisingly difficult. Despite the alarming individual, societal and economic burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diagnosis is still largely based on a physiologically dominated disease conception, with spirometrically determined airflow limitation as a cardinal feature of the disease. The diagnostic inaccuracy and insensitivity of this physiological disease definition is reviewed considering scientific developments of imaging of the respiratory system in particular. Disease must be approached as a fluid concept in response to new scientific and medical discoveries, but labelling as well as mislabelling someone as diseased, will have enormous individual, social and financial implications. Nosology of COPD urgently needs to dynamically integrate more sensitive diagnostic procedures to detect the breadth of abnormalities early in the disease process. Integration of broader information for the identification of abnormalities in the respiratory system is a cornerstone for research models of underlying pathomechanisms to create a breakthrough in research.
Differences in Patients’ and Surgeons’ Expectations before Shoulder Stabilization Surgery
Authors: Karpinski Katrin , Plachel Fabian , Gerhardt Christian , Saier Tim , Tauber Mark , Auffarth Alexander , Akgün Doruk , Moroder Philipp
Published: October 2021

Purpose: The primary goal of shoulder stabilization procedures is to re-establish stability and many surgeons measure the success after shoulder stabilization surgery only by the absence of re-dislocation. However, patients might also suffer from pain, loss of range of motion and strength as well as anxiety and stigmatization and therefore have other expectations from a stabilization surgery than just a stable shoulder. Purpose of this study was to analyze if surgeons know what their patients typically expect from a shoulder stabilization surgery. Furthermore, the aim was to analyze the influence of various factors on patients’ expectations. Materials and Methods: 204 patients with a diagnosis of shoulder instability scheduled for surgical treatment were included in this prospective multicentric study. Preoperatively, objective and subjective scores were obtained and patients were asked about their postoperative expectations. Additionally, 25 surgeons were interviewed with regard to what they think their patients expect from the surgery using standardized questions. Results: With regard to postoperative expectations surveyed by the Hospital for Special Surgery questionnaire (HSS), the most important goal to achieve for the patients was ‘stopping the shoulder from dislocation’, followed by ‘to improve the ability to exercise or participate in sports’ and ‘being the shoulder to be back the way it was before the issue started’. The ranking of factors for patients was ‘stability’ as the most important to achieve, followed by ‘movement’, ‘strength’, ‘pain’ and ‘cosmetics’. For surgeons, the order was ‘stability’ (p = 0.004 **), ‘movement’ (p = 0.225), ‘pain’ (p = 0.509), ‘strength’ (p = 0.007 **) and ‘cosmetics’ (p = 0.181). There was a significant difference between patients and surgeons with regard to gaining stability at the cost of movement (p = 0.001 **). Conclusion: Patients and surgeons expectations regarding outcome after surgical shoulder stabilization procedures are quite similar with limited topics of disagreement. Generally, surgeons tend to overrate the importance of stability at the costs of other factors.
Sulphation and Hydrolysis Improvements of Bioactivities, and Immuno-Modulatory Properties of Edible Amanita hemibapha Subspecies javanica (Corner and Bas) Mucilage Polysaccharide as a Potential in Personalized Functional Foods
Authors: Surayot Utoomporn , Wangtueai Sutee , You Sangguan , Techapun Charin , Phimolsiripol Yuthana , Leksawasdi Noppol , Krusong Warawut , Barba Francisco J. , Seesuriyachan Phisit
Published: October 2021

In this study, the mucilage polysaccharide (MP) from Amanita hemibapha subspecies javanica was prepared by hot water extraction and ethanol precipitation and then fractionated using anion-exchange chromatography equipped with a DEAE Sepharose fast flow column. The most immune-enhancing polysaccharide fraction 2 (MPF2) was subjected to a structural modification such as hydrolysis or over-sulphation. The sulphate and molecular weight (Mw) of over-sulphated (OS1-3) and hydrolysed (HS1-3) derivatives of MPF2 differed between 9.85% and 14.2% and 32.8 and 88.1 × 103 g/mol, respectively. Further, the immune-enhancing properties of MPF2 and its derivatives were tested on RAW264.7 and NK cells through various in vitro assays. Interestingly, a low molecular weight of HS1-3 significantly increased the nitric oxide (NO) production (p < 0.05) more than MPF2, indicating that Mw is a major factor in RAW264.7 cell stimulation. In addition, RAW264.7 cells produced various cytokines by up-regulating mRNA expression levels and the activation of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. On the other hand, OS1-3-treated natural killer (NK) cells induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells through the expression of IFN-γ, Grandzyme-B, perforin, NKp30, and FasL. These results demonstrated that sulphate derivatives play an important role in NK cell activation. Further, this study also explores how polysaccharide binds to RAW264.7 and NK cells. MPF2 and HS3 may activate RAW264.7 cells via binding to TLR4 receptors, and OS2 could be activated through the CR3 signalling pathways.
Design of High Volume CFBC Fly Ash Based Calcium Sulphoaluminate Type Binder in Mixtures with Ordinary Portland Cement
Authors: Paaver Peeter , Järvik Oliver , Kirsimäe Kalle
Published: October 2021

Growing concerns on global industrial greenhouse gas emissions have boosted research for developing alternative, less CO2 intensive binders for partial to complete replacement of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) clinker. Unlike slag and pozzolanic siliceous low-Ca class F fly ashes, the Ca- and S-rich class C ashes, particularly these formed in circulating fluidised bed combustion (CFBC) boilers, are typically not considered as viable cementitious materials for blending with or substituting the OPC. We studied the physical, chemical-mineralogical characteristics of the mechanically activated Ca-rich CFBC fly ash pastes and mortars with high volume OPC substitution rates to find potential alternatives for OPC in building materials and composites. Our findings indicate that compressive strength of pastes and mortars made with partial to complete replacement of the mechanically activated CFBC ash to OPC is comparable to OPC concrete, showing compared to OPC pastes reduction in compressive strength only by <10% at 50% and <20% at 75% replacement rates. Our results show that mechanically activated Ca-rich CFBC fly ash can be successfully used as an alternative CSA-cement type binder.
Preparation and Photocatalysis of CuO/Bentonite Based on Adsorption and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Yang Cuina , Xu Hongfa , Shi Jicun , Liu Zhifeng , Zhao Lei
Published: October 2021

A CuO/bentonite composite photocatalyst was prepared to fully utilize the adsorption capacity of bentonite and the photocatalytic activity of CuO. CuO and bentonite were chosen as a photocatalyst due to the excellent optical property of CuO and large specific surface area of bentonite, together with their high stability and low production cost. The sample was characterized by XRD, SEM, and BET. The effects of several factors on degradation process were investigated such as dosage of H2O2, irradiation time, pH of the solution, and dosage of catalyst. The optimum conditions for decolorization of methylene blue solution by CuO/bentonite were determined. Under optimal conditions, the decolorization efficiency of methylene blue by a 1.4% CuO/bentonite (400 °C) composite photocatalyst under visible irradiation at 240 min reached 96.98%. The degradation process follow edpseudo-second-order kinetics. The photocatalytic mechanism is discussed in detail. This composite structure provides a new solution to the cycle and aggregation of the photocatalyst in water.
Applications of a Semi-Crystalline Thermoplastic Constitutive Model to Mechanical Responses of Electronic Connector Structures
Authors: Huang Ting-Chuan , Liao Kuo-Chi
Published: October 2021

The retention force of electronic connectors, in general one of the essential specification requirements, is defined as a maximum force of metallic terminals withdrawn out of the corresponding plastic housing. Accurate prediction of the retention force is an important issue in the connector design stage; however, it is not an easy task to accurately assess the retention force based on the authors’ knowledge. A finite element analysis is performed in conjunction with a self-coded user subroutine accounting for relaxation/creep behaviors of semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymers under various loading conditions in order to appraise the mechanical performance of the plastic base structure. Material parameters adopted in the constitutive model are evaluated by utilizing the automated design exploration and optimization commercial software. Applications of the developed subroutine with several damage criteria to assess retention forces of two electronic connectors were conducted. Retention forces predicted by utilizing the current constitutive model agreed fairly well with the associated experimental measurements. A dramatic improvement of the underestimation of the retention force based on the approach commonly adopted in the industry is also demonstrated here.
Grain-Scale Anisotropic Analysis of Steady-State Creep in Oligocrystalline SAC Solder Joints
Authors: Jiang Qian , Deshpande Abhishek , Dasgupta Abhijit
Published: October 2021

Heterogeneous integration is leading to unprecedented miniaturization of solder joints, often with thousands of joints within a single package. The thermomechanical behavior of such SAC solder joints is critically important to assembly performance and reliability, but can be difficult to predict due to the significant joint-to-joint variability caused by the stochastic variability of the arrangement of a few highly-anisotropic grains in each joint. This study relies on grain-scale testing to characterize the mechanical behavior of such oligocrystalline solder joints, while a grain-scale modeling approach has been developed to assess the effect of microstructure that lacks statistical homogeneity. The contribution of the grain boundaries is modeled with isotropic cohesive elements and identified by an inverse iterative method that extracts material properties by comparing simulation with experimental measurements. The properties are extracted from the results of one test and validated by verifying reasonable agreement with test results from a different specimen. Equivalent creep strain heterogeneity within the same specimen and between different specimens are compared to assess typical variability due to the variability of microstructure.
Students’ Knowledge about Cervical Cancer Prevention in Poland
Authors: Osowiecka Karolina , Yahuza Samira , Szwiec Marek , Gwara Anna , Kasprzycka Karolina , Godawska Monika , Olejniczak Dominik , Nowacka Agnieszka , Nowakowski Jacek J. , Nawrocki Sergiusz , Rucinska Monika
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives: In Poland, the rates of morbidity and mortality due to cervical cancer are amongst the highest in Europe. A significant percentage of newly diagnosed cases of cervical cancer are at an advanced stage. Unfortunately, only about 20% of Polish women take part in cervical cancer screening. The aim of the study was to assess students’ knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and prevention. Materials and Methods: The study was provided to Polish students from various universities and faculties between May 2020 and November 2020. The questionnaire was designed specifically for this study and was validated. The chi-square test was used to compare the responses between subgroups. Results: The study was carried out on a group of 995 students (80.6% women, 19% men, 0.4% no data), (average age 21.9 years). Most students knew that the main risk factor for cervical cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (82% of all responders; 86% of medical students; 73% of non-medical students; p < 0.001). Only 40% of students knew that in Poland the Population Prevention and Early Diagnosis Program is carried out on women aged 25–59 years every three years. Most students correctly indicated that cervical cancer screening in Poland is performed using cervical cytology and were familiar with the basis of cytology. Only 57% of students knew that there are no specific early symptoms of cervical cancer. A total of 78% of all respondents knew that HPV vaccination reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Medical students and students who are sexually active demonstrated a better knowledge of cervical cancer. Conclusions: The Polish students had some knowledge of cervical cancer risk factors and primary and secondary prevention. Significantly better knowledge was demonstrated by medical students. Some efforts should be made to ensure that young people, who are not associated with medicine are better educated about cervical cancer in order to reduce the overall incidence and improve early detection rates.
MiRNA: Involvement of the MAPK Pathway in Ischemic Stroke. A Promising Therapeutic Target
Authors: Gugliandolo Agnese , Silvestro Serena , Sindona Cinzia , Bramanti Placido , Mazzon Emanuela
Published: October 2021

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a cerebrovascular disease with a high rate of disability and mortality. It is classified as the second leading cause of death that arises from the sudden occlusion of small vessels in the brain with consequent lack of oxygen and nutrients in the brain tissue. Following an acute ischemic event, the cascade of events promotes the activation of multiple signaling pathways responsible for irreversible neuronal damage. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway transmits signals from the cell membrane to the nucleus in response to different stimuli, regulating proliferation, differentiation, inflammation, and apoptosis. Several lines of evidence showed that MAPK is an important regulator of ischemic and hemorrhagic cerebral vascular disease; indeed, it can impair blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity and exacerbate neuroinflammation through the release of pro-inflammatory mediators implementing neurovascular damage after ischemic stroke. This review aims to illustrate the miRNAs involved in the regulation of MAPK in IS, in order to highlight possible targets for potential neuroprotective treatments. We also discuss some miRNAs (miR), including miR-145, miR-137, miR-493, and miR-126, that are important as they modulate processes such as apoptosis, neuroinflammation, neurogenesis, and angiogenesis through the regulation of the MAPK pathway in cerebral IS. To date, limited drug therapies are available for the treatment of IS; therefore, it is necessary to implement preclinical and clinical studies aimed at discovering novel therapeutic approaches to minimize post-stroke neurological damage.
Does TENS Reduce the Intensity of Acute and Chronic Pain? A Comprehensive Appraisal of the Characteristics and Outcomes of 169 Reviews and 49 Meta-Analyses
Authors: Paley Carole A. , Wittkopf Priscilla G. , Jones Gareth , Johnson Mark I.
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives: Uncertainty about the clinical efficacy of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS) to alleviate pain spans half a century. There has been no attempt to synthesise the entire body of systematic review evidence. The aim of this comprehensive review was to critically appraise the characteristics and outcomes of systematic reviews evaluating the clinical efficacy of TENS for any type of acute and chronic pain in adults. Materials and Methods: We searched electronic databases for full reports of systematic reviews of studies, overviews of systematic reviews, and hybrid reviews that evaluated the efficacy of TENS for any type of clinical pain in adults. We screened reports against eligibility criteria and extracted data related to the characteristics and outcomes of the review, including effect size estimates. We conducted a descriptive analysis of extracted data. Results: We included 169 reviews consisting of eight overviews, seven hybrid reviews and 154 systematic reviews with 49 meta-analyses. A tally of authors’ conclusions found a tendency toward benefits from TENS in 69/169 reviews, no benefits in 13/169 reviews, and inconclusive evidence in 87/169 reviews. Only three meta-analyses pooled sufficient data to have confidence in the effect size estimate (i.e., pooled analysis of >500 events). Lower pain intensity was found during TENS compared with control for chronic musculoskeletal pain and labour pain, and lower analgesic consumption was found post-surgery during TENS. The appraisal revealed repeated shortcomings in RCTs that have hindered confident judgements about efficacy, resulting in stagnation of evidence. Conclusions: Our appraisal reveals examples of meta-analyses with ‘sufficient data’ demonstrating benefit. There were no examples of meta-analyses with ‘sufficient data’ demonstrating no benefit. Therefore, we recommend that TENS should be considered as a treatment option. The considerable quantity of reviews with ‘insufficient data’ and meaningless findings have clouded the issue of efficacy. We offer solutions to these issues going forward.
Changes in Plasma VEGF and PEDF Levels in Patients with Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Chrząszcz Michał , Pociej-Marciak Weronika , Żuber-Łaskawiec Katarzyna , Romanowska-Dixon Bożena , Sanak Marek , Michalska-Małecka Katarzyna , Petrovič Mojca Globočnik , Karska-Basta Izabella
Published: October 2021

Background and Objectives: Retinal pigment epitheliopathy and hyperpermeability of choroidal vessels were postulated to be involved in the pathogenesis of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). Imbalanced levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment-epithelium–derived factor (PEDF) were previously implicated in the development of chorioretinal diseases characterized by increased vascular permeability. We aimed to compare the plasma levels of proangiogenic VEGF and antiangiogenic PEDF for 26 patients with acute CSC, 26 patients with chronic CSC, and 19 controls. Materials and Methods: VEGF and PEDF levels were measured using a multiplex immunoassay or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Correlations with disease duration were assessed. Results: VEGF levels differed between groups (p = 0.001). They were lower in patients with acute CSC (p = 0.042) and chronic CSC (p = 0.018) than in controls. PEDF levels were similar in all groups. The VEGF-to-PEDF ratio was lower in CSC patients than in controls (p = 0.04). A negative correlation with disease duration was noted only for PEDF levels in the group with chronic CSC (rho = −0.46, p = 0.017). Discussion: Our study confirmed that patients with CSC have imbalanced levels of VEGF and PEDF. This finding may have important implications for the pathogenesis of CSC. VEGF-independent arteriogenesis rather than angiogenesis may underlie vascular abnormalities in these patients.
Diabetic Wound-Healing Science
Authors: Burgess Jamie L. , Wyant W. Austin , Abdo Abujamra Beatriz , Kirsner Robert S. , Jozic Ivan
Published: October 2021

Diabetes mellitus is an increasingly prevalent chronic metabolic disease characterized by prolonged hyperglycemia that leads to long-term health consequences. It is estimated that impaired healing of diabetic wounds affects approximately 25% of all patients with diabetes mellitus, often resulting in lower limb amputation, with subsequent high economic and psychosocial costs. The hyperglycemic environment promotes the formation of biofilms and makes diabetic wounds difficult to treat. In this review, we present updates regarding recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of diabetic wounds focusing on impaired angiogenesis, neuropathy, sub-optimal chronic inflammatory response, barrier disruption, and subsequent polymicrobial infection, followed by current and future treatment strategies designed to tackle the various pathologies associated with diabetic wounds. Given the alarming increase in the prevalence of diabetes, and subsequently diabetic wounds, it is imperative that future treatment strategies target multiple causes of impaired healing in diabetic wounds.
Does the EU COVID Digital Certificate Strike a Reasonable Balance between Mobility Needs and Public Health?
Authors: Montanari Vergallo Gianluca , Zaami Simona , Negro Francesca , Brunetti Pietro , Del Rio Alessandro , Marinelli Enrico
Published: October 2021

The need to fight a highly aggressive virus such as SARS-CoV-2 has compelled governments to put in place measures, which, in the name of health protection, have constrained many freedoms we all enjoy, including freedom of movement, both nationally and within the European Union. In order to encourage and facilitate the return to free movement, the European Parliament has launched a “COVID-19 digital certificate”. A spirited debate centered around the use of this certificate is still ongoing among scholars, many of whom have pointed out the uncertainties relative to COVID-19 immunity, privacy issues and the risk of discriminatory effects. The authors, while highlighting some critical aspects, argue that the COVID digital certificate in its current approved version can effectively help prevent the spread of the infection and promote free movement, while upholding the right to health as much as possible. However, they also stress the need for a thorough information campaign to illustrate the advantages and limitations of this document in order to avoid creating a false sense of security in the public opinion, who may wrongly assume that the emergency has been overcome for good.
Impact of Adiposity and Fat Distribution, Rather Than Obesity, on Antibodies as an Illustration of Weight-Loss-Independent Exercise Benefits
Authors: Ghanemi Abdelaziz , Yoshioka Mayumi , St-Amand Jonny
Published: October 2021

Obesity represents a risk factor for a variety of diseases because of its inflammatory component, among other biological patterns. Recently, with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, a special focus has been put on obesity as a status in which antibody production, among other immune functions, is impaired, which would impact both disease pathogenesis and vaccine efficacy. Within this piece of writing, we illustrate that such patterns would be due to the increased adiposity and fat distribution pattern rather than obesity (as defined by the body mass index) itself. Within this context, we also highlight the importance of the weight-loss-independent effects of exercise.
Effect of Dendrite Fraction on the M23C6 Precipitation Behavior and the Mechanical Properties of High Cr White Irons
Authors: Oh Jun-Seok , Song Young-Gy , Choi Baig-Gyu , Bhamornsut Chalothorn , Nakkuntod Rujeeporn , Jo Chang-Yong , Lee Je-Hyun
Published: October 2021

High Cr white irons with various fractions of primary dendrite have been prepared through the modification of their chemical composition. Increasing C and Cr contents decreased the primary dendrite fraction. Eutectic solidification occurred with the phase fraction ratio of austenite: M7C3 = 2.76:1. The measured primary dendrite fractions were similar to the calculated results. ThermoCalc calculation successfully predicted fractions of M7C3, austenite, and M23C6. Conventional heat treatment at high temperature caused a destabilization of austenite, releasing it’s solute elements to form M23C6 carbide. Precipitation of M23C6 during destabilization preferentially occurred within primary (austenite) dendrite, however, the precipitation scarcely occurred within austenite in eutectic phase. Thus, M23C6 precipitation by destabilization was relatively easy in alloys with a high fraction of primary dendrite.
Computational Determination of Macroscopic Mechanical and Thermal Material Properties for Different Morphological Variants of Cast Iron
Authors: Herrmann Christoph , Schmid Stefan , Schneider Daniel , Selzer Michael , Nestler Britta
Published: October 2021

The sensitivity of macroscopic mechanical and thermal properties of grey cast iron is computationally investigated for a variety of graphite morphologies over a wide temperature range. In order to represent common graphite morphologies according to EN ISO 945-1, a synthetic approach is used to algorithmically generate simulation domains. The developed mechanical and thermal model is applied in a large simulation study. The study includes statistical volume elements of the graphite morphology classes GJL-150 and IA2 to IA5, with 10, 11 and 12  v.−% of graphite precipitations, respectively, for a temperature range from 20 to 750 °C. Homogenised macroscopic quantities, such as the Young’s moduli, Poisson’s ratios, yield strengths and thermal conductivities, are predicted for different morphology classes by applying simulation and data analysis tools of the research data infrastructure Kadi4Mat. This is the first work to determine the mechanical and thermal properties of the morphology classes defined in EN ISO 945-1.