bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cell Protective Effect of Adenine on Hypoxia–Reoxygenation Injury through PPAR Delta Activation
Authors: Leu Jyh-Gang , Wang Chien-Mei , Chen Chao-Yi , Yang Yi-Feng , Shih Chin-Yu , Lin Jiun-Tsai , Chen Han-Min , Liang Yao-Jen
Published: December 2021

Ischemia followed by blood supply reperfusion in cardiomyocytes leads to an overproduction of free radicals and a rapid decrease of adenosine triphosphate concentration. The cardioprotective effect of a potential drug, adenine, was evaluated using H9c2 rat cardiomyoblasts. After hypoxia–reoxygenation (HR) treatment consisting of hypoxia for 21 h followed by reoxygenation for 6 h, it was revealed that pretreatment with 200 µM adenine for 2 h effectively prevented HR-induced cell death. Adenine also significantly decreased the production of reactive oxygen species and reduced cell apoptosis after HR injury. The antioxidant effect of adenine was also revealed in this study. Adenine pretreatment significantly reduced the expression of activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) and glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) proteins, and protein disulfide isomerase induced a protective effect on mitochondria after HR stimulation. Intracellular adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARδ), and perilipin levels were increased by adenine after HR stimulation. Adenine had a protective effect in HR-damaged H9c2 cells. It may be used in multiple preventive medicines in the future.
Changes in Salivary Parameters of Oral Immunity after Biologic Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Nijakowski Kacper , Rutkowski Rafał , Eder Piotr , Korybalska Katarzyna , Witowski Janusz , Surdacka Anna
Published: December 2021

We previously observed that inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may compromise oral host defense, as assessed by decreased salivary levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO). Biologic therapy with inhibitors of cytokines or adhesion molecules is increasingly used for patients with IBD. Little is known, however, about how this treatment modality affects the release and properties of saliva. Here, we aimed to determine how biologic therapy in patients who had not responded to previous standard treatment with conventional drugs affected the salivary concentration of IgA and MPO. To this end, unstimulated whole mixed saliva was collected before treatment or after 10–12 weeks of therapy from 27 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and 24 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). After the induction phase of therapy with biologics, salivary levels of IgA and MPO increased significantly in UC, but not in CD patients. These increases were approximately 8-fold and 6-fold, for IgA and MPO, respectively. Moreover, these effects occurred in UC patients who responded successfully to therapy, but not in those who failed to improve. Furthermore, the relative increases in salivary IgA and MPO correlated with the relative decrease in UC severity, as assessed by the Mayo scale. These data indicate that the successful therapy with biologics in UC patients results also in improved oral host defense. However, it remains to be determined why such an effect does not occur during therapy for CD.
Improvement of Heating Uniformity by Limiting the Absorption of Hot Areas in Microwave Processing of CFRP Composites
Authors: Li Shengping , Li Yingguang , Zhou Jing , Wen Youyi
Published: December 2021

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites are integral to today’s industries. Curing or consolidation are vital processes for manufacturing CFRP components. Microwave processing has many advantages compared with conventional processing technologies using ovens or autoclaves; however, the uneven temperature distribution caused by the non-uniform microwave field has a significant influence on the quality of the cured products. In this study, we propose a new idea to solve this problem, i.e., limiting the absorption of hot areas. Under such circumstances, cold ones can catch up with them more easily. To adjust the absorbing capability of the CFRP laminate, periodically arranged metallic resonance structures supported by a dielectric spacer are introduced on its surface. The dielectric spacer, made of epoxy matrix and strontium titanate particles, is designed to possess a dielectric constant positively related to temperatures. In this situation, the microwave absorption (2.45 GHz) of the metal-dielectric-CFRP configuration is changed from 97.6% at room temperature to 55.9% at 150 °C continuously. As a result, a reduction of 43.1% in maximum temperature difference and 89% in standard deviation has been achieved.
Intermetallic Phases Identification and Diffusion Simulation in Twin-Roll Cast Al-Fe Clad Sheet
Authors: Křivská Barbora , Šlapáková Michaela , Veselý Jozef , Kihoulou Martin , Fekete Klaudia , Minárik Peter , Králík Rostislav , Grydin Olexandr , Stolbchenko Mykhailo , Schaper Mirko
Published: December 2021

Aluminium steel clad materials have high potential for industrial applications. Their mechanical properties are governed by an intermetallic layer, which forms upon heat treatment at the Al-Fe interface. Transmission electron microscopy was employed to identify the phases present at the interface by selective area electron diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Three phases were identified: orthorhombic Al5Fe2, monoclinic Al13Fe4 and cubic Al19Fe4MnSi2. An effective interdiffusion coefficient dependent on concentration was determined according to the Boltzmann–Matano method. The highest value of the interdiffusion coefficient was reached at the composition of the intermetallic phases. Afterwards, the process of diffusion considering the evaluated interdiffusion coefficient was simulated using the finite element method. Results of the simulations revealed that growth of the intermetallic phases proceeds preferentially in the direction of aluminium.
Upcycling and Recycling Potential of Selected Lignocellulosic Waste Biomass
Authors: Wronka Anita , Robles Eduardo , Kowaluk Grzegorz
Published: December 2021

This research aimed to confirm the ability to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by novel composite production using plantation waste on the example of lignocellulosic particles of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott) and raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.). Furthermore, to characterize the particles produced by re-milled particleboards made of the above-mentioned alternative raw materials in the light of further recycling. As part of the research, particleboards from wooden black chokeberry and raspberry were produced in laboratory conditions, and select mechanical and physical properties were examined. In addition, the characterization of raw materials (particles) on the different processing stages was determined, and the fraction share and shape of particles after re-milling of the produced panels was provided. The tests confirmed the possibility of producing particleboards from the raw materials used; however, in the case of boards with raspberry lignocellulose particles, their share cannot exceed 50% so as to comply with the European standards regarding bending strength criterion. In addition, the further utilization of chips made of re-milled panels can be limited due to the significantly different shape and fraction share of achieved particles.
Shielding Effectiveness and Impact Resistance of Concrete Walls Strengthened by High-Strength High-Ductility Concrete
Authors: Lee Jae-Hoon , Choi Jin-Seok , Yuan Tian-Feng , Yoon Young-Soo
Published: December 2021

Following the fourth Industrial Revolution, electronic and data-based technology is becoming increasingly developed. However, current research on enhancing electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and the physical protection performance of structures incorporating these technologies is insufficient. Therefore, in this study aiming for the improvement of EMI shielding and structural performance of structures, twelve concrete walls were fabricated and tested to determine their shielding effectiveness and drop-weight impact resistance. Concrete walls strengthened by three thickness types of high-strength, high-ductility concrete (HSDC) have been considered. The test results showed that the shielding effectiveness with strengthening thickness increased by approximately 35.6–46.2%. Specimens strengthened by more than 40% and 10% of the strengthening area ratio of single- and double-layer, respectively, exhibited more than 20 dB of shielding effectiveness. Moreover, the relationship between the damaged area ratio and shielding effectiveness was evaluated by means of the drop-weight impact test. The structural performance and EMI shielding effectiveness improved as the HSDC thickness increased.
Crack Evolution and Oxidation Failure Mechanism of a SiC-Ceramic Coating Reactively Sintered on Carbon/Carbon Composites
Authors: Xu Min , Guo Lingjun , Wang Hanhui
Published: December 2021

A SiC ceramic coating was prepared on carbon/carbon composites by pack cementation. The phase composition and microstructure of the coated specimens were characterized using X-ray diffraction instrument and scanning electron microscope. The results showed that the mass-loss percentage of the coated specimen was 9.5% after being oxidized for 20 h. The oxidation failure of the SiC ceramic coating at 1773 K was analysed by non-destructive X-ray computed tomography. The effective self-healing of cracks with widths below 12.7 μm introduced during the coating preparation process and generated while the specimens cooled down from the high oxidation temperature prevented the oxidation of carbon/carbon composites. X-ray computed tomography was used to obtain three-dimensional images revealing internal damage caused by spallation and open holes on the coating. Stress induced by heating and cooling caused the formation, growth and coalescence of cracks, which in turn led to exfoliation of the coating and subsequent failure of oxidation protection.
Molecular Dynamics Study on Mechanical Properties of Nanopolycrystalline Cu–Sn Alloy
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Zhao Junsheng , Wang Pengfei , Li Xiaoyu , Liu Yudong , Fu Xinyue
Published: December 2021

Molecular dynamics simulation is one kinds of important methods to research the nanocrystalline materials which is difficult to be studied through experimental characterization. In order to study the effects of Sn content and strain rate on the mechanical properties of nanopolycrystalline Cu–Sn alloy, the tensile simulation of nanopolycrystalline Cu–Sn alloy was carried out by molecular dynamics in the present study. The results demonstrate that the addition of Sn reduces the ductility of Cu–Sn alloy. However, the elastic modulus and tensile strength of Cu–Sn alloy are improved with increasing the Sn content initially, but they will be reduced when the Sn content exceeds 4% and 8%, respectively. Then, strain rate ranges from 1 × 109 s−1 to 5 × 109 s−1 were applied to the Cu–7Sn alloy, the results show that the strain rate influence elastic modulus of nanopolycrystalline Cu–7Sn alloy weakly, but the tensile strength and ductility enhance obviously with increasing the strain rate. Finally, the microstructure evolution of nanopolycrystalline Cu–Sn alloy during the whole tensile process was studied. It is found that the dislocation density in the Cu–Sn alloy reduces with increasing the Sn content. However, high strain rate leads to stacking faults more easily to generate and high dislocation density in the Cu–7Sn alloy.
High-Resolution Microstructure Characterization of Additively Manufactured X5CrNiCuNb17-4 Maraging Steel during Ex and In Situ Thermal Treatment
Authors: Albu Mihaela , Panzirsch Bernd , Schröttner Hartmuth , Mitsche Stefan , Reichmann Klaus , Poletti Maria Cecilia , Kothleitner Gerald
Published: December 2021

Powder and selective laser melting (SLM) additively manufactured parts of X5CrNiCuNb17-4 maraging steel were systematically investigated by electron microscopy to understand the relationship between the properties of the powder grains and the microstructure of the printed parts. We prove that satellites, irregularities and superficial oxidation of powder particles can be transformed into an advantage through the formation of nanoscale (AlMnSiTiCr) oxides in the matrix during the printing process. The nano-oxides showed extensive stability in terms of size, spherical morphology, chemical composition and crystallographic disorder upon in situ heating in the scanning transmission electron microscope up to 950 °C. Their presence thus indicates a potential for oxide-dispersive strengthening of this steel, which may be beneficial for creep resistance at elevated temperatures. The nucleation of copper clusters and their evolution into nanoparticles, and the precipitation of Ni and Cr particles upon in situ heating, have been systematically documented as well.
Effects of Microwave Heating and Long-Term Aging on the Rheological and Chemical Properties of Recovered Bitumen
Authors: Fernández Matías , Canon Gustavo , Leischner Sabine , Rochlani Mrinali , Norambuena-Contreras José , González Alvaro
Published: December 2021

Microwave heating of asphalt pavement is a promising technique to reduce the maintenance and increase the service life of materials through self-healing of cracks. Previous studies have shown that microwave heating technology at high temperatures could damage the bitumen of asphalt mixture, which is an unwanted effect of the crack-healing technique. In this study, the effects of microwave heating and long-term aging on the rheological and chemical properties of recovered bitumen were quantified using a frequency sweep test and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry analysis, respectively. The main results indicate that microwave heating has no significant effect on the aging performance of G* and δ for aged asphalt mixtures. However, for newer bitumens, the rheological properties G* and δ show minor changes after microwave heating was applied. Overall, this study confirms that microwave heating is a potential alternative for maintenance of asphalt pavements, without severely affecting the rheological and chemical properties of bitumen.
A Study of the Impact of Graphene Oxide on Viral Infection Related to A549 and TC28a2 Human Cell Lines
Authors: Kuropka Piotr , Dobrzynski Maciej , Bazanow Barbara , Stygar Dominika , Gebarowski Tomasz , Leskow Anna , Tarnowska Malgorzata , Szyszka Katarzyna , Malecka Malgorzata , Nowak Nicole , Strek Wieslaw , Wiglusz Rafal J.
Published: December 2021

Graphene has been one of the most tested materials since its discovery in 2004. It is known for its special properties, such as electrical conductivity, elasticity and flexibility, antimicrobial effect, and high biocompatibility with many mammal cells. In medicine, the antibacterial, antiviral, and antitumor properties of graphene have been tested as intensively as its drug carrying ability. In this study, the protective effect of graphene oxide against Rubella virus infection of human lung epithelial carcinoma cells and human chondrocyte cells was examined. Cells were incubated with graphene oxide alone and in combination with the Rubella virus. The cytopathic effect in two incubation time periods was measured using DAPI dye as a percentage value of the changed cells. It was shown that the graphene oxide alone has no cytopathic effect on any of tested cell lines, while the Rubella virus alone is highly cytopathic to the cells. However, in combination with the graphene oxide percentage of the changed cells, its cytotopathicity is significantly lower. Moreover, it can be concluded that graphene oxide has protective properties against the Rubella virus infection to cells, lowering its cytopathic changes to the human cells.
A Novel Implementation of the LDEM in the Ansys LS-DYNA Finite Element Code
Authors: Zanichelli Andrea , Colpo Angélica , Friedrich Leandro , Iturrioz Ignacio , Carpinteri Andrea , Vantadori Sabrina
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a novel implementation of the Lattice Discrete Element Method (LDEM) is proposed: in particular, the LDEM is implemented in the Ansys LS-DYNA finite element code. Such an implementation is employed to evaluate the fracture behaviour of sandwich panels under bending. First, the novel hybrid model proposed is validated by simulating some three-point bending experimental tests carried out at the University of Parma, and then it is used to model the fracture behaviour of sandwich panels under four-point bending. Failure mechanisms, damage locations, and load-deflection curves are numerically determined by employing such a novel model, and the results show a good agreement with the available experimental findings.
Fatigue Behavior of an AM50 Die-Casting Alloy Anodized by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation
Authors: Choi Kwangmin , Kang Seungwon , Kang Heon
Published: December 2021

While an anodizing process is essential for magnesium alloys to be used under corrosive environments, it sometimes stimulates a fatigue fracture that initiates at the interface between the coating layer and the substrate. In this study, a plasma electrolyte oxidation (PEO) technique was employed to provide excellent adhesion between the anodizing layer and the AM50 die-cast by applying an extremely high dielectric discharge in an alkaline phosphate electrolyte, and its effect on corrosion and fatigue behaviors was investigated. The stress intensity factor at the fatigue limit was estimated to be 0.28 MPam0.5. The specimen anodized using the PEO technique exhibits enhanced strength and corrosion resistance compared to the unanodized counterpart. Furthermore, it shows a relative fatigue life in spite of the thick anodizing layer because the crack initiates from the interface, not from the pore near the interface.
Non-Destructive X-ray Characterization of a Novel Joining Method Based on Laser-Melting Deposition for AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Mahmood Muhammad Arif , Chioibasu Diana , Mihai Sabin , Iovea Mihai , Mihailescu Ion N. , Popescu Andrei C.
Published: December 2021

In this study, an application of the laser-melting deposition additive manufacturing technique as a welding method has been studied for the laser welding (LW) of AISI 304 stainless steel, specifically 0.4 mm and 0.5 mm thick sheets. The welding was carried out without and with filler material. Inconel 718 powder particles were used as filler material in the second case. A series of experiments were designed by changing the process parameters to identify the effect of operating conditions on the weld width, depth, and height. The welds were examined through metallographic experiments performed at various cross-sections to identify the defects and pores. All the deposited welds were passed through a customized mini-focus X-ray system to analyze the weld uniformities. The optimal operating conditions were determined for 0.4 mm and 0.5 mm sheets for the LW with and without filler material. It was found that laser power, laser scanning speed, powder flow rate, and helium to argon gases mixture-control the weld bead dimensions and quality. X-ray analyses showed that the optimal operating conditions gave the least peak value of non-uniformity in the laser welds. This study opens a new window for laser welding via additive manufacturing with X-ray monitoring.
The Studies on α-Pinene Oxidation over the TS-1. The Influence of the Temperature, Reaction Time, Titanium and Catalyst Content
Authors: Wróblewska Agnieszka , Grzeszczak Jadwiga , Miądlicki Piotr , Kiełbasa Karolina , Kujbida Marcin , Kamińska Adrianna , Michalkiewicz Beata
Published: December 2021

The work presents the results of studies on α-pinene oxidation over the TS-1 catalysts with different Ti content (in wt%): TS-1_1 (9.92), TS-1_2 (5.42), TS-1_3 (3.39) and TS-1_4 (3.08). No solvent was used in the oxidation studies, and molecular oxygen was used as the oxidizing agent. The effect of titanium content in the TS-1 catalyst, temperature, reaction time and amount of the catalyst in the reaction mixture on the conversion of α-pinene and the selectivities of appropriate products was investigated. It was found that it is most advantageous to carry out the process of α-pinene oxidation in the presence of the TS-1 catalyst with the titanium content of 5.42 wt% (TS-1_2), at the temperature of 85 °C, for 6 h and with the catalyst TS-1 content in the reaction mixture of 1 wt%. Under these conditions the conversion of α-pinene amounted to 34 mol%, and the selectivities of main products of α-pinene oxidation process were: α-pinene oxide (29 mol%), verbenol (15 mol%) and verbenone (12 mol%). In smaller quantities also campholenic aldehyde, trans-pinocarveol, myrtenal, myrtenol, L-carveol, carvone and 1,2-pinanediol were also formed. These products are of great practical importance in food, cosmetics, perfumery and medicine industries. Kinetic studies were also performed for the studied process.
An Alternative Electro-Mechanical Finite Formulation for Functionally Graded Graphene-Reinforced Composite Beams with Macro-Fiber Composite Actuator
Authors: Fu Yu , Tang Xingzhong , Jin Qilin , Wu Zhen
Published: December 2021

With its extraordinary physical properties, graphene is regarded as one of the most attractive reinforcements to enhance the mechanical characteristics of composite materials. However, the existing models in the literature might meet severe challenges in the interlaminar-stress prediction of thick, functionally graded, graphene-reinforced-composite (FG-GRC)-laminated beams that have been integrated with piezoelectric macro-fiber-composite (MFC) actuators under electro-mechanical loadings. If the transverse shear deformations cannot be accurately described, then the mechanical performance of the FG-GRC-laminated beams with MFC actuators will be significantly impacted by the electro-mechanical coupling effect and the sudden change of the material characteristics at the interfaces. Therefore, a new electro-mechanical coupled-beam model with only four independent displacement variables is proposed in this paper. Employing the Hu–Washizu (HW) variational principle, the precision of the transverse shear stresses in regard to the electro-mechanical coupling effect can be improved. Moreover, the second-order derivatives of the in-plane displacement parameters have been removed from the transverse-shear-stress components, which can greatly simplify the finite-element implementation. Thus, based on the proposed electro-mechanical coupled model, a simple C0-type finite-element formulation is developed for the interlaminar shear-stress analysis of thick FG-GRC-laminated beams with MFC actuators. The 3D elasticity solutions and the results obtained from other models are used to assess the performance of the proposed finite-element formulation. Additionally, comprehensive parametric studies are performed on the influences of the graphene volume fraction, distribution pattern, electro-mechanical loading, boundary conditions, lamination scheme and geometrical parameters of the beams on the deformations and stresses of the FG-GRC-laminated beams with MFC actuators.
Comparative Analysis of Temperature Fields in Railway Solid and Ventilated Brake Discs
Authors: Yevtushenko Aleksander , Kuciej Michal , Grzes Piotr , Wasilewski Piotr
Published: December 2021

A new approach to numerical simulation using the finite element method (FEM) for the rotational motion of discs for railway vehicle disc brake systems was proposed. For this purpose, spatial models of transient heating due to the friction of such systems with solid and ventilated discs were developed. The performed calculations and the results obtained allowed justification of the possibility of simplifying the shape of the ventilated brake disc through elimination of ventilation channels. This contributes to a significant reduction in computational time, without compromising the accuracy of the results. The spatial and temporal temperature distributions in the ventilated and the solid disc of the same mass were analyzed. The share of energy dissipated due to convection and thermal radiation to the environment in relation to the total work done during a single braking was investigated. The maximum temperature values found as a result of computer simulations were consistent with the corresponding experimental results.
Comparison of Silane Heat Treatment by Laser and Various Surface Treatments on Microtensile Bond Strength of Composite Resin/Lithium Disilicate
Authors: Ergun-Kunt Goknil , Sasany Rafat , Koca Mehmet Faruk , Özcan Mutlu
Published: December 2021

In the current study, we evaluated the effects of heat treatment (by Er:YAG or furnace) and various surface treatments on the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of silanized lithium disilicate ceramic. Seventy lithium disilicate (IPS e. max Press; Ivoclar Vivadent) and composite resin (Tetric N-Ceram; Ivoclar Vivadent) blocks were made and distributed into seven groups (n = 10) at random: S: silanization alone; ALS: airborne particle abrasion (APA) and silanization; SC: APA modified with silica and silanization; SHT1: silanization and heat treatment by Er:YAG; SHT2: silanization and heat treatment performed in the furnace (100 °C, 1 min); HF: etching with HF; and HFS: etching with HF and silanization. Every ceramic specimen was cemented to a composite resin block after surface treatment. Cemented specimens were embedded into acrylic resin and were tested with the μTBS test. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tamhane T2 tests (α = 0.05). The SHT1 group had the highest bond of strength compared to the other groups (27.46 MPa). The ALS group had the lowest strength of the groups (15.56 MPa). Between SHT2 and HFS (p = 1), the comparison of the mean µTBS values showed no significant differences. It was concluded that silane heat treatment increased the resin composite–ceramic bond strength; however, within the terms of μTBS, the Er:YAG laser treatment was more successful than other surface treatment applications.
Intelligent Fault Diagnosis Method for Blade Damage of Quad-Rotor UAV Based on Stacked Pruning Sparse Denoising Autoencoder and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Yang Pu , Wen Chenwan , Geng Huilin , Liu Peng
Published: December 2021

This paper introduces a new intelligent fault diagnosis method based on stack pruning sparse denoising autoencoder and convolutional neural network (sPSDAE-CNN). This method processes the original input data by using a stack denoising autoencoder. Different from the traditional autoencoder, stack pruning sparse denoising autoencoder includes a fully connected autoencoding network, the features extracted from the front layer of the network are used for the operation of the subsequent layer, which means that some new connections will appear between the front and rear layers of the network, reduce the loss of information, and obtain more effective features. Firstly, a one-dimensional sliding window is introduced for data enhancement. In addition, transforming one-dimensional time-domain data into the two-dimensional gray image can further improve the deep learning (DL) ability of models. At the same time, pruning operation is introduced to improve the training efficiency and accuracy of the network. The convolutional neural network model with sPSDAE has a faster training speed, strong adaptability to noise interference signals, and can also suppress the over-fitting problem of the convolutional neural network to a certain extent. Actual experiments show that for the fault of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) blade damage, the sPSDAE-CNN model we use has better stability and reliable prediction accuracy than traditional convolutional neural networks. At the same time, For noise signals, better results can be obtained. The experimental results show that the sPSDAE-CNN model still has a good diagnostic accuracy rate in a high-noise environment. In the case of a signal-to-noise ratio of −4, it still has an accuracy rate of 90%.
Two-Dimensional-One-Dimensional Alternating Direction Schemes for Coastal Systems Convection-Diffusion Problems
Authors: Sukhinov Alexander , Sidoryakina Valentina
Published: December 2021

The initial boundary value problem for the 3D convection-diffusion equation corresponding to the mathematical model of suspended matter transport in coastal marine systems and extended shallow water bodies is considered. Convective and diffusive transport operators in horizontal and vertical directions for this type of problem have significantly different physical and spectral properties. In connection with the above, a two-dimensional–one-dimensional splitting scheme has been built—a three-dimensional analog of the Peaceman–Rachford alternating direction scheme, which is suitable for the operational suspension spread prediction in coastal systems. The paper has proved the theorem of stability solution with respect to the initial data and functions of the right side, in the case of time-independent operators in special energy norms determined by one of the splitting scheme operators. The accuracy has been investigated, which, as in the case of the Peaceman–Rachford scheme, with the special definition of boundary conditions on a fractional time step, is the value of the second order in dependency of time and spatial steps. The use of this approach makes it possible to obtain parallel algorithms for solving grid convection-diffusion equations which are economical in the sense of total time of problem solution on multiprocessor systems, which includes time for arithmetic operations realization and the one required to carry of information exchange between processors.
Mathematical Modeling of Manufacturing Lines with Distribution by Process: A Markov Chain Approach
Authors: Pérez-Lechuga Gilberto , Venegas-Martínez Francisco , Martínez-Sánchez José Francisco
Published: December 2021

Today, there are a wide variety of ways to produce goods in a manufacturing company. Among the most common are mass or line production and process production, both of which are antagonists. In an online production system, materials move from station to station, receiving added value on a well-defined layout. In a production line by process, the materials randomly visit a set of machines strategically located in order to receive a treatment, almost always through metalwork machines, according to the final product of which they will be part. In this case, there is not a predefined layout, as the incoming materials are sectioned and each piece forms a continuous flow through different workstations to receive some process. This activity depends on the function of the product and its final destination as a component of a finished product. In this proposal, Markov chain theory is used to model a manufacturing system by process in order to obtain the expected values of the average production per machine, the total expected production in all the facilities, the leisure per machine and the total productive efficiency of the system, among other indicators. In this research, we assume the existence of historical information about the use of the equipment, its failures, the causes of failure and their repair times; in any factory, this information is available in the area of manufacturing engineering and plant engineering. From this information, statistical frequency indicators are constructed to estimate transition probabilities, from which the results presented here are derived. The proposal is complemented with a numerical example of a real case obtained from a refrigerator factory established in Mexico in order to illustrate the results derived from this research. The results obtained show their feasibility when successfully implemented in the company.
Inequality and Dropout in Higher Education in Colombia. A Multilevel Analysis of Regional Differences, Institutions, and Field of Study
Authors: Barbosa-Camargo María Inés , García-Sánchez Antonio , Ridao-Carlini María Luisa
Published: December 2021

In Colombia, the gaps of regional inequalities and social opportunities permeate people’s economic, political, and social participation. Additionally, the initial endowments of individual and socioeconomic background, barriers to financial aid, and academic and personal skills restrict decision-making about studying. In this context, the main objective is to analyze the determinants of dropout rates in Colombia and the differences between the type of institutions, field of study, and regions. We used data from three public administrative agencies for the period 2000–2012. The methodology combines multiple correspondence analysis and a lineal hierarchical model to explain the effect of variables operating at different levels. As a result, we retained four dimensions to represent the individuals’ socioeconomic and financial conditions. The findings obtained from the multilevel model suggest the variation between institutions (11%) and the interaction between institutions and the program cycle (17.8%). It confirms the influence of inequities on desertion. The student chooses between programs with differences in fees and study costs in general, such as quality, social recognition, and employment. In sum, contextual and institutional disparities in the dropout phenomenon’s behavior are explained mainly by the supply conditions in these regions and the individuals’ socioeconomic backgrounds.
The Sine Modified Lindley Distribution
Authors: Tomy Lishamol , G Veena , Chesneau Christophe
Published: December 2021

The paper contributes majorly in the development of a flexible trigonometric extension of the well-known modified Lindley distribution. More precisely, we use features from the sine generalized family of distributions to create an original one-parameter survival distribution, called the sine modified Lindley distribution. As the main motivational fact, it provides an attractive alternative to the Lindley and modified Lindley distributions; it may be better able to model lifetime phenomena presenting data of leptokurtic nature. In the first part of the paper, we introduce it conceptually and discuss its key characteristics, such as functional, reliability, and moment analysis. Then, an applied study is conducted. The usefulness, applicability, and agility of the sine modified Lindley distribution are illustrated through a detailed study using simulation. Two real data sets from the engineering and climate sectors are analyzed. As a result, the sine modified Lindley model is proven to have a superior match to important models, such as the Lindley, modified Lindley, sine exponential, and sine Lindley models, based on goodness-of-fit criteria of importance.
A New Criterion for Fluoroquinolone-Associated Disability Diagnosis: Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Cannizzaro Deanna N. , Naughton Lydia F. , Freeman Maya Z. , Martin Linda , Bennett Charles L. , Bove Cecilia
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives: Fluoroquinolones (FQs) are a broad-spectrum class of antibiotics routinely prescribed for common bacterial infections despite recent recommendations to use them only for life-threatening cases. In addition to their antimicrobial properties, FQs act in the central nervous system as GABAA receptor inhibitors, which could potentially affect functionality of the vagus nerve at the forefront of gastrointestinal (GI) tract function. Alterations in neural control of digestion have been shown to be linked to Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs), which are usually diagnosed based on self-reported symptoms. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of FGIDs following FQ use. Materials and Methods: Self-reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System were analyzed together with ~300 survey responses from a social network derived sample to the Bowel Disease Questionnaire. Results: The results of this study suggested that six different FQs are associated with a wide range of GI symptoms not currently reported in the drugs’ labels. The responses from the survey suggested that ~70% of FQ users scored positive for FGID, with no positive correlation between drug type, duration of administration, dosage and frequency of administration. Conclusions: This study showed that GI disorders other than nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are more common than currently reported on the drug labels, and that FGIDs are possibly a common consequence of FQ use even after single use.
Metabolic Volume Measurements in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Takahashi Maria Emilia Seren , Lorand-Metze Irene , de Souza Carmino Antonio , Mesquita Claudio Tinoco , Fernandes Fernando Amorim , Carvalheira José Barreto Campello , Ramos Celso Dario
Published: December 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) accounts for 10–15% of all hematologic malignancies, as well as 20% of deaths related to hematologic malignant tumors, predominantly affecting bone and bone marrow. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-PET/CT) is an important method to assess the tumor burden of these patients. It is often challenging to classify the extent of disease involvement in the PET scans for many of these patients because both focal and diffuse bone lesions may coexist, with varying degrees of FDG uptake. Different metrics involving volumetric parameters and texture features have been proposed to objectively assess these images. Here, we review some metabolic parameters that can be extracted from FDG-PET/CT images of MM patients, including technical aspects and predicting MM outcome impact. Metabolic tumor volume (MTV) and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) are volumetric parameters known to be independent predictors of MM outcome. However, they have not been adopted in clinical practice due to the lack of measuring standards. CT-based segmentation allows automated, and therefore reproducible, calculation of bone metabolic metrics in patients with MM, such as maximum, mean and standard deviation of the standardized uptake values (SUV) for the entire skeleton. Intensity of bone involvement (IBI) is a new parameter that also takes advantage of this approach with promising results. Other indirect parameters obtained from FDG-PET/CT images, such as visceral adipose tissue glucose uptake and subcutaneous adipose tissue radiodensity, may also be useful to evaluate the prognosis of MM patients. Furthermore, the use and quantification of new radiotracers can address different metabolic aspects of MM and may have important prognostic implications.
A Prognostics Method Based on Back Propagation Neural Network for Corroded Pipelines
Authors: Xie Mingjiang , Li Zishuo , Zhao Jianli , Pei Xianjun
Published: December 2021

A method that employs the back propagation (BP) neural network is used to predict the growth of corrosion defect in pipelines. This method considers more diversified parameters that affect the pipeline’s corrosion rate, including pipe parameters, service life, corrosion type, corrosion location, corrosion direction, and corrosion amount in a three-dimensional direction. The initial corrosion time is also considered, and, on this basis, the uncertainties of the initial corrosion time and the corrosion size are added to the BP neural network model. In this paper, three kinds of pipeline corrosion growth models are constructed: the traditional corrosion model, the corrosion model considering the uncertainties of initial corrosion time and corrosion depth, and corrosion model also considering the uncertainties of corrosion size (length, width, depth). The rationality and effectiveness of the proposed prediction models are verified by three case studies: the uniform model, the exponential model, and the gamma process model. The proposed models can be widely used in the prediction and management of pipeline corrosion.
Potential Associations of Mutations within the HIV-1 Env and Gag Genes Conferring Protease Inhibitor (PI) Drug Resistance
Authors: Maphumulo Ntombikhona F. , Gordon Michelle L.
Published: December 2021

An increasing number of patients in Africa are experiencing virological failure on a second-line antiretroviral protease inhibitor (PI)-containing regimen, even without resistance-associated mutations in the protease region, suggesting a potential role of other genes in PI resistance. Here, we investigated the prevalence of mutations associated with Lopinavir/Ritonavir (LPV/r) failure in the Envelope gene and the possible coevolution with mutations within the Gag-protease (gag-PR) region. Env and Gag-PR sequences generated from 24 HIV-1 subtype C infected patients failing an LPV/r inclusive treatment regimen and 344 subtype C drug-naïve isolates downloaded from the Los Alamos Database were analyzed. Fisher’s exact test was used to determine the differences in mutation frequency. Bayesian network probability was applied to determine the relationship between mutations occurring within the env and gag-PR regions and LPV/r treatment. Thirty-five mutations in the env region had significantly higher frequencies in LPV/r-treated patients. A combination of Env and Gag-PR mutations was associated with a potential pathway to LPV/r resistance. While Env mutations were not directly associated with LPV/r resistance, they may exert pressure through the Gag and minor PR mutation pathways. Further investigations using site-directed mutagenesis are needed to determine the impact of Env mutations alone and in combination with Gag-PR mutations on viral fitness and LPV/r efficacy.
Assessing Gut Microbiota in an Infant with Congenital Propionic Acidemia before and after Probiotic Supplementation
Authors: Bordugo Andrea , Salvetti Elisa , Rodella Giulia , Piazza Michele , Dianin Alice , Amoruso Angela , Piacentini Giorgio , Pane Marco , Torriani Sandra , Vitulo Nicola , Felis Giovanna E.
Published: December 2021

Propionic Acidemia (PA) is a rare inherited metabolic disorder caused by the enzymatic block of propionyl-CoA carboxylase with the consequent accumulation of propionic acid, which is toxic for the brain and cardiac cells. Since a considerable amount of propionate is produced by intestinal bacteria, interest arose in the attempt to reduce propionate-producing bacteria through a monthly antibiotic treatment of metronidazole. In the present study, we investigated the gut microbiota structure of an infant diagnosed at 4 days of life through Expanded Newborn Screening (NBS) and treated the child following international guidelines with a special low-protein diet, specific medications and strict biochemical monitoring. Microbiota composition was assessed during the first month of life, and the presence of Bacteroides fragilis, known to be associated with propionate production, was effectively decreased by metronidazole treatment. After five antibiotic therapy cycles, at 4 months of age, the infant was supplemented with a daily mixture of three bifidobacterial strains, known not to be propionate producers. The supplementation increased the population of bifidobacteria, with Bifidobacterium breve as the dominating species; Ruminococcus gnavus, an acetate and formate producer, was also identified. Metabarcoding analysis, compared with low coverage whole metagenome sequencing, proved to capture all the microbial biodiversity and could be the elected tool for fast and cost-effective monitoring protocols to be implemented in the follow up of rare metabolic disorders such as PA. Data obtained could be a possible starting point to set up tailored microbiota modification treatment studies in the attempt to improve the quality of life of people affected by propionic acidemia.
Primary Site of Coxsackievirus B Replication in the Small Intestines: No Proof of Peyer’s Patches Involvement
Authors: Bopegamage Shubhada , Berakova Katarina , Gomocak Pavol , Baksova Renata , Galama Jochem , Hyoty Heikki , Tauriainen Sisko
Published: December 2021

Background: Enterovirus (EV) infections are associated with a broad range of diseases. Since the first experimental infection of primates with poliovirus (PV), tonsils and the Peyer’s patches (PPs) have been believed to be the primary replication sites of EVs. Our aim was to localize different viral markers in the small intestines (SI) of coxsackievirus B (CVB) orally and intraperitoneally (i.p.) infected mice. Methods: Transverse sections of SIs of both infected and control male outbred mice were collected at different intervals post-infection (p.i) and analyzed for presence of interferon-alpha (IFN-α) and viral protein VP1 by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization (ISH). Fluorescent marker, eGFP, was identified in cryosections of mice infected with eGFP-CVB3. Results: In the infected SIs, we observed enlarged germinating centers (GCs) in the PPs; IFN-α was detected in the PPs and mucosal layer of the SIs. However, VP1, viral RNA and the eGFP were absent in the GCs of PPs at all stages of infection irrespective of the virus strains used. Conclusions: Virus was present in the epithelial cells but not in GCs of the PPs of the murine SIs. Our results do not support the hypothesis of EV replication in the PP especially in the GCs.
Determination of Abrasiveness in Copper-Gold Sulfide Ores: A Contribution to the Geometallurgical Model of the Sossego Deposit
Authors: de Azevedo Barbosa Petterson , Bergerman Maurício Guimarães , da Fonseca Elisabeth , Kwitko-Ribeiro Rogerio
Published: December 2021

The geological context of this study is established in the iron oxide-copper-gold (IOCG) deposit of Sossego (Canaã dos Carajás, Brazil), where hydrothermal alterations in shear zones concentrated the metals of interest and added new characteristics to the metavolcanic-sedimentary and granite rocks. The mineral transformation of rocks by hypersaline fluids enriched in metals and silica also modifies some metallurgical properties, such as abrasiveness. Special bench tests on rock drill cores are used in mapping the abrasiveness of rocks, with the Bond abrasion test being more commonly used in the mining industry, but it has a restrictive sampling protocol and mass requirement for geometallurgical studies. As a counterpoint, the test of the Laboratoire Central des Ponts et Chaussées/Central Laboratory of Bridges and Roads (LCPC) requires a smaller amount of fine material and a finer granulometric range. The study on the use of LCPC was implemented in 40 samples, using Bond Ai as a reference. The results showed a strong correlation between both methodologies (R2 = 95%), validating the use of LCPC to quantify abrasiveness in the Sossego mine. It was also possible to classify the most abrasive lithologies.
Characterizing Prediction Uncertainty in Agricultural Modeling via a Coupled Statistical–Physical Framework
Authors: Chrispell John C. , Jenkins Eleanor W. , Kavanagh Kathleen R. , Parno Matthew D.
Published: December 2021

Multiple factors, many of them environmental, coalesce to inform agricultural decisions. Farm planning is often done months in advance. These decisions have to be made with the information available at the time, including current trends, historical data, or predictions of what future weather patterns may be. The effort described in this work is geared towards a flexible mathematical and software framework for simulating the impact of meteorological variability on future crop yield. Our framework is data driven and can easily be applied to any location with suitable historical observations. This will enable site-specific studies that are needed for rigorous risk assessments and climate adaptation planning. The framework combines a physics-based model of crop yield with stochastic process models for meteorological inputs. Combined with techniques from uncertainty quantification, global sensitivity analysis, and machine learning, this hybrid statistical–physical framework allows studying the potential impacts of meteorological uncertainty on future agricultural yields and identify the environmental variables that contribute the most to prediction uncertainty. To highlight the utility of our general approach, we studied the predicted yields of multiple crops in multiple scenarios constructed from historical data. Using global sensitivity analysis, we then identified the key environmental factors contributing to uncertainty in these scenarios’ predictions.