bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar Power: Stellar Profit or Astronomic Cost? A Case Study of Photovoltaic Installations under Poland’s National Prosumer Policy in 2016–2020
Authors: Szeląg-Sikora Anna , Sikora Jakub , Niemiec Marcin , Gródek-Szostak Zofia , Suder Marcin , Kuboń Maciej , Borkowski Tomasz , Malik Gabriela
Published: July 2021

In Poland, the development of photovoltaic (PV) installations is an important element in the development of the Renewable Energy Sources (RES) sector and supports the prosumer power industry. The purpose of the article is to present a case study of the PROSUMENT program. It analyzes the data available to date on the development of the PV market in Poland. Apart from the costs of installing the PV systems, the article analyzes the profitability of investment for different micro-power installation capacities. A calculation for micro-power installations subsidized under the PROSUMENT program for various PV capacities is presented, along with the actual amount of the subsidy. The adopted calculation methodology is a comparative verification analysis of the investment cost estimate for a for the two studied PV facilities, i.e., Micro-power installation 1 and Micro-power installation 2. The building’s annual energy demand was adopted at the same level for both examples, with fixed active energy and distribution fees. The study includes a cost estimate for installing the PV systems and the profitability of the investments for various micro-power installation capacities. The analysis of the subsidy under the PROSUMENT program demonstrated that, in the analyzed period of 2016–2020, the best results were achieved by investments with a capacity of 10 kWp. In terms of the net subsidy value, the best results ranged between 27.20 and 19.10% of the total investment costs. Development of the Polish prosumer power market requires building public awareness of prosumer power production as an opportunity for the growth of the Polish economy.
Lactic Acid-Based Solvents for Sustainable EDLC Electrolytes
Authors: Melchiorre Massimo , Esposito Roberto , Di Serio Martino , Abbate Giancarlo , Lampasi Alessandro , Balducci Andrea , Ruffo Francesco
Published: July 2021

The most relevant electrolytes used in commercial electrical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) are based on non-aqueous solvents as acetonitrile (ACN) and propylene carbonate (PC). However, these solvents are synthesized from non-renewable fossil feedstocks, making it desirable to develop more sustainable alternatives. To address this issue, in this work lactic acid was used to synthesize a panel of substances with small structural variation. The investigated products belong to the chemical family of ketals, and among them the 5-methyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-one (LA-H,H) was found to be the most suitable to prepare electrolytic solutions. Therefore, LA-H,H was combined with triethylmethylammonium tetrafluoroborate (TEMABF4), and analyzed in symmetrical EDLC. This electrolyte was thoroughly characterized by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic cycles and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), disclosing competitive performances compared to PC-based electrolyte. The EDLC with LA-H,H/TEMABF4 displayed a specific energy and power of 13.4 Whkg−1 and 22.5 kWkg−1 respectively, with an optimal cycling stability over 5000 cycles at different current densities.
Cryptocurrency Mining from an Economic and Environmental Perspective. Analysis of the Most and Least Sustainable Countries
Authors: Náñez Alonso Sergio Luis , Jorge-Vázquez Javier , Echarte Fernández Miguel Ángel , Reier Forradellas Ricardo Francisco
Published: July 2021

There are different studies that point out that the price of electricity is a fundamental factor that will influence the mining decision, due to the cost it represents. There is also an ongoing debate about the pollution generated by cryptocurrency mining, and whether or not the use of renewable energies will solve the problem of its sustainability. In our study, starting from the Environmental Performance Index (EPI), we have considered several determinants of cryptocurrency mining: energy price, how that energy is generated, temperature, legal constraints, human capital, and R&D&I. From this, via linear regression, we recalculated this EPI by including the above factors that affect cryptocurrency mining in a sustainable way. The study determines, once the EPI has been readjusted, that the most sustainable countries to perform cryptocurrency mining are Denmark and Germany. In fact, of the top ten countries eight of them are European (Denmark, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Austria, and the United Kingdom); and the remaining two are Asian (South Korea and Japan).
Deacidification of Cranberry Juice Reduces Its Antibacterial Properties against Oral Streptococci but Preserves Barrier Function and Attenuates the Inflammatory Response of Oral Epithelial Cells
Authors: Pellerin Geneviève , Bazinet Laurent , Grenier Daniel
Published: July 2021

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) may be a potent natural adjuvant for the prevention of oral diseases due to its anti-adherence, anti-cariogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the high titrable acidity of cranberry juice (CJ) has been reported to cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading consumers to restrict their intake of this beverage. Electrodialysis with a bipolar membrane (EDBM) can reduce the organic acid content of CJ while retaining the flavonoids associated with potential health benefits. This study aimed to assess how the deacidification of CJ by EDBM impacts the antibacterial properties of the beverage against cariogenic (Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sobrinus) and commensal (Streptococcus gordonii, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus salivarius) streptococci, and how it affects oral epithelial barrier function and inflammatory response in an in vitro model. The removal of organic acids from CJ (deacidification rate ≥42%) reduced the bactericidal activity of the beverage against planktonic S. mutans and S. gordonii after a 15-min exposure, whereas only the viability of S. gordonii was significantly impacted by CJ deacidification rate when the bacteria were embedded in a biofilm. Moreover, conditioning saliva-coated hydroxyapatite with undiluted CJ samples significantly lowered the adherence of S. mutans, S. sobrinus, and S. oralis. With respect to epithelial barrier function, exposure to CJ deacidified at a rate of ≥19% maintained the integrity of a keratinocyte monolayer over the course of 24 h compared to raw CJ, as assessed by the determination of transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) and fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated dextran paracellular transport. These results can be in part attributed to the inability of the deacidified CJ to disrupt two tight junction proteins, zonula occludens−1 and occludin, following exposure, unlike raw CJ. Deacidification of CJ impacted the secretion of IL-6, but not of IL-8, by oral epithelial cells. In conclusion, deacidification of CJ appears to provide benefits with respect to the maintenance of oral health.
Valorization of Mango By-Products to Enhance the Nutritional Content of Maize Complementary Porridges
Authors: Mandha Juliana , Shumoy Habtu , Matemu Athanasia O. , Raes Katleen
Published: July 2021

Mango by-products are disregarded as waste contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. This study used mango seed and kernel to enhance the nutritional content of maize complementary porridges. Composite maize-based porridges (MBP) were formulated by fortifying maize flour with fine ground mango seed and kernel at different levels (31%, 56%, 81%). The by-products and formulated porridges were characterized for their nutritional composition, mineral content, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, the bioaccessibility of essential minerals during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion of the formulated porridges was determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Mango seed had a high fat (12.0 g/100 g dw) and protein content (4.94 g/100 g dw), which subsequently doubled the fat content of the porridges. Mango by-products increased the total phenolic content of maize porridge by more than 40 times and the antioxidant capacity by 500 times. However, fortification with mango by-products significantly decreased the bioaccessibility of minerals, especially manganese, copper, and iron, as the highest percentages of insoluble minerals were recorded in MBP 81 at 78.4%, 71.0%, and 62.1%, respectively. Thus, the results suggest that mango seed and kernel could increase the nutritional value of maize porridge, but fortification should be done at lower levels of about 31–56%.
Growth-Promoting Effect of Cava Lees on Lactic Acid Bacteria Strains: A Potential Revalorization Strategy of a Winery By-Product
Authors: Hernández-Macias Salvador , Comas-Basté Oriol , Jofré Anna , Bover-Cid Sara , Latorre-Moratalla M. Luz , Vidal-Carou M. Carmen
Published: July 2021

The growing trend of circular economy has prompted the design of novel strategies for the revalorization of food industry by-products. Cava lees, a winery by-product consisting of non-viable cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae rich in β-glucans and mannan-oligosaccharides, can be used as a microbial growth promoter, with potential food safety and health applications. The aim of this study was to assess in vitro the effect of cava lees on the growth of 21 strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) species commonly used as starter cultures and/or probiotics. Firstly, 5% of cava lees was selected as the most effective amount for enhancing microbial counts. After screening different LAB, statistically significantly (p < 0.05) higher microbial counts were found in 12 strains as a consequence of cava lees supplementation. Moreover, a greater and faster reduction in pH was observed in most of these strains. The growth-promoting effects of cava lees on LAB strains supports the potential revalorization of this winery by-product, either to improve the safety of fermented products or as a health-promoting prebiotic that may be selectively fermented by probiotic species.
Iterated Functions Systems Composed of Generalized θ-Contractions
Authors: Rajan Pasupathi , Navascués María A. , Chand Arya Kumar Bedabrata
Published: July 2021

The theory of iterated function systems (IFSs) has been an active area of research on fractals and various types of self-similarity in nature. The basic theoretical work on IFSs has been proposed by Hutchinson. In this paper, we introduce a new generalization of Hutchinson IFS, namely generalized θ-contraction IFS, which is a finite collection of generalized θ-contraction functions T1,…,TN from finite Cartesian product space X×⋯×X into X, where (X,d) is a complete metric space. We prove the existence of attractor for this generalized IFS. We show that the Hutchinson operators for countable and multivalued θ-contraction IFSs are Picard. Finally, when the map θ is continuous, we show the relation between the code space and the attractor of θ-contraction IFS.
Application of Spatio-Temporal Spectral Analysis for Detection of Seismic Waves in Gravitational-Wave Interferometer
Authors: Szymko Robert , Denys Mateusz , Bulik Tomasz , Idźkowski Bartosz , Kutynia Adam , Nikliborc Krzysztof , Suchiński Maciej
Published: July 2021

Mixed spatio–temporal spectral analysis was applied for the detection of seismic waves passing through the west–end building of the Virgo interferometer. The method enables detection of a passing wave, including its frequency, length, direction, and amplitude. A thorough analysis aimed at improving sensitivity of the Virgo detector was made for the data gathered by 38 seismic sensors, in the two–week measurement period, from 24 January to 6 February 2018, and for frequency range 5–20 Hz. Two dominant seismic–wave frequencies were found: 5.5 Hz and 17.1 Hz. The presented method can be applied for a better understanding of the interferometer seismic environment, and by identifying noise sources, help the noise–hunting and mitigation work that eventually leads to interferometer noise suppression.
Laboratory Investigation of Hydraulic Fracture Behavior of Unconventional Reservoir Rocks
Authors: Bobrova Maria , Stanchits Sergey , Shevtsova Anna , Filev Egor , Stukachev Vladimir , Shayahmetov Tagir
Published: July 2021

The heterogeneity of the rock fabric is a significant factor influencing the initiation and propagation of a hydraulic fracture (HF). This paper presents a laboratory study of HF created in six shale-like core samples provided by RITEK LLC collected from the same well, but at different depths. For each tested sample, we determined the breakdown pressure, the HF growth rate, and the expansion of the sample at the moment when the HF reaches the sample surface. Correlations were established between the HF parameters and the geomechanical characteristics of the studied samples, and deviations from the general relationships were explained by the influence of the rock matrix. The analysis of the moment tensor inversion of radiated acoustic emission (AE) signals allows us to separate AE signals with a dominant shear component from the signals with a significant tensile component. The direction of microcrack opening was determined, which is in good agreement with the results of the post-test X-ray CT analysis of the created HF. Thus, it has been shown that a combination of several independent laboratory techniques allows one to reliably determine the parameters that can be used for verification of hydraulic fracturing models.
A Greek Validation Study of the Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire-23
Authors: Bakirtzis Christos , Artemiadis Artemios , Nteli Elli , Boziki Marina Kleopatra , Karakasi Maria-Valeria , Honan Cynthia , Messinis Lambros , Nasios Grigorios , Dardiotis Efthimios , Grigoriadis Nikolaos
Published: July 2021

The Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire-23 (MSWDQ-23) is a self-report instrument developed to assess barriers faced by People with Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) in the workplace. The aim of this study was to explore the psychometric properties of the Greek version of the MSWDQ-23. The study sample consisted of 196 PwMS, all currently working in part- or full-time jobs. Participants underwent clinical examination and cognitive screening with the Brief International Cognitive Assessment for Multiple Sclerosis (BICAMS) and completed self-report measures of fatigue, psychological functioning, and quality of life, along with the MSWDQ-23 questionnaire. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed, and goodness-of-fit measures were used to evaluate construct validity. Convergent validity was checked by correlating MSWDQ-23 scores with study measures. Cronbach’s alpha value was produced to assess internal consistency. CFA yielded a model with a fair fit confirming the three-factor structure of the instrument. Higher work difficulties were associated with higher Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores, poorer cognitive function, more fatigue, stress, anxiety, and depression, and poorer health status, supporting the convergent validity of MSWDQ-23. Internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.94) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.996, 95%, CI = 0.990–0.998) were excellent. The Greek MSWDQ-23 can be considered a valid patient-reported outcome measure and can be used in interventions aiming to improve the vocational status of PwMS.
Epidemiology of Amyloidosis and Genetic Pathways to Diagnosis and Typing
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Försti Asta
Published: July 2021

We reviewed our studies on epidemiology and germline genetics of amyloidosis. In epidemiology, we considered both hereditary and non-hereditary amyloidosis. As the source of data, we used the nationwide Swedish hospital discharge register. We estimated the incidence of hereditary ATTR amyloidosis, for which Sweden is a global endemic area, at 2/million. Surprisingly, the disease was also endemic within Sweden; the incidence in the province with the highest incidence was 100 times higher than in the rest of Sweden. Risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma increased five-fold in the affected individuals. Among non-hereditary amyloidosis, the incidence for AL amyloidosis (abbreviated as AL) was estimated at 3.2/million, with a median survival time of 3 years. Secondary systemic amyloidosis (most likely AA amyloidosis) showed an incidence of 1.15/million for combined sexes. The female rate was two times higher than the male rate, probably relating to the higher female prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis. The median survival time was 4 years. We also identified patients who likely had familial autoinflammatory disease, characterized by early onset and immigrant background from the Eastern Mediterranean area. Young Syrian descendants had the highest incidence rate, which was over 500 times higher than that in individuals with Swedish parents. Germline genetics focused on AL on which we carried out a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in three AL cohorts (N = 1129) from Germany, UK, and Italy. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at 10 loci showed evidence of an association at p < 10−5; some of these were previously documented to influence multiple myeloma (MM) risk, including the SNP at the IRF4 binding site. In AL, SNP rs9344 at the splice site of cyclin D1, influencing translocation (11;14), reached the highest significance, p = 7.80 × 10−11; the SNP was only marginally significant in MM. The locus close to gene SMARCD3, involved in chromatin remodeling, was also significant. These data provide evidence for common genetic susceptibility to AL and MM. We continued by analyzing genetic associations in nine clinical profiles, characterized by organ involvement or Ig profiles. The light chain only (LCO) profile associated with the SNP at the splice site of cyclin D1 with p = 1.99 × 10−12. Even for the other profiles, distinct genetic associations were found. It was concluded that the strong association of rs9344 with LCO and t(11;14) amyloidosis offer attractive mechanistic clues to AL causation. Mendelian randomization analysis identified associations of AL with increased blood monocyte counts and the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 17 (TNFRSF17 alias BCMA) protein. Two other associations with the TNFRSF members were found. We discuss the corollaries of the findings with the recent success of treating t(11;14) AL with a novel drug venetoclax, and the application of BCMA as the common target of plasma cell immunotherapies.
Archaeometallurgical Analyses on Two Renaissance Swords from the “Luigi Marzoli” Museum in Brescia: Manufacturing and Provenance
Authors: Mori Carolina , Ghiara Giorgia , De Montis Paolo , Piccardo Paolo , Gatta Giacomo D. , Trasatti Stefano Pierpaolo
Published: July 2021

Two Venetian types of swords coming from the “Luigi Marzoli” Arms Museum in Brescia were characterized in this study, to understand their manufacturing process and to gather information about their provenance. Both the blades and the hilts components are analyzed using a multi-methodological approach, to describe possible differences in the metallurgical features that involved classical metallographic and spectroscopic techniques. Microstructural results indicate a complex process for the manufacturing of the blades, by hot-forging, confirmed by a sequence of different microstructures even on the same sample. Furthermore, an interesting and unusual manufacturing technique is used on one of the pommels, which consists of two hemispheres connected by copper joints. Hypothesis about the ironmaking and the provenience of raw materials are obtained by the features and composition of the inclusions. It is suggested that there is the use of both a direct and an indirect process on the swords. It is likely that the minerals used to obtain iron and copper of the swords come from the mines of the Brescia and Bergamo territories. All the hypotheses are consistent with the historical documents of the time that also give information on the diffusion of such swords in the Brescia area.
Twenty-Years of Hop Irrigation by Flooding the Inter-Row Did Not Cause a Gradient along the Row in Soil Properties, Plant Elemental Composition and Dry Matter Yield
Authors: Afonso Sandra , Arrobas Margarida , Rodrigues Manuel Ângelo
Published: July 2021

In hops (Humulus lupulus L.), irrigation by flooding the inter-row can carry away suspended particles and minerals, causing gradients in soil fertility. The effect of more than 20 years of flooding irrigation on soil and plants was evaluated in two hop fields by measuring soil and plant variables in multiple points along the rows. In a second experiment 1000 kg ha−1 of lime was applied and incorporated into the soil to assess whether liming could moderate any gradient created by the irrigation. At different sampling points along the rows, significant differences were recorded in soil properties, plant elemental composition and dry matter yield, but this was not found to exist over a continuous gradient. The variations in cone yield were over 50% when different sampling points were compared. However, this difference cannot be attributed to the effect of irrigation, but rather to an erratic spatial variation in some of the soil constituents, such as sand, silt and clay. Flooding irrigation and frequent soil tillage resulted in lower porosity and higher soil bulk density in the 0.0–0.10 m soil layer in comparison to the 0.10–0.20 m layer. In turn, porosity and bulk density were respectively positively and negatively associated with crop productivity. Thus, irrigation and soil tillage may have damaged the soil condition but did not create any gradient along the row. The ridge appeared to provide an important pool of nutrients, probably caused by mass flow due to the evaporation from it and a regular supply of irrigation water to the inter-row. Liming raised the soil pH slightly, but had a relevant effect on neither soil nor plants, perhaps because of the small amounts of lime applied.
Analysis of Healthy Lifestyle Habits and Oral Health in a Patient Sample at the Dental Hospital of the University of Barcelona
Authors: Torrejon-Moya Aina , Gonzalez-Navarro Beatriz , Roca-Millan Elisabet , Estrugo-Devesa Albert , López-López José
Published: July 2021

The association between general health and oral health has been studied over recent years. In order to evaluate the lifestyle and the presence of healthy habits, a descriptive observational study was conducted from December 2018 to April 2019 with 230 patients, aged from 18 to 65 years old, that attended the Dental Hospital of the University of Barcelona for the first time. A total of 230 participants were considered, 98 (43%) were men and 132 (57%) were women, with a mean age of 37 years old. Our hypothesis was that patients with healthy habits had a better oral status in comparison with patients with bad lifestyle habits. No statistically significant results were found regarding oral hygiene between gender, smokers and patients with systemic pathology. Regarding a healthy lifestyle (High adherence to dietary intake), no statistically significant results were found. No significant differences were found regarding physical activity between male and female patients. Our hypothesis wasn’t confirmed; therefore, we cannot conclude that patients with healthy habits have better oral status in comparison with patients with bad lifestyle habits. Consequently, more prospective longitudinal studies should be carried out.
Assessment of the Evolution of Groundwater Chemistry and Its Controlling Factors in the Huangshui River Basin of Northwestern China, Using Hydrochemistry and Multivariate Statistical Techniques
Authors: Zhou Bing , Wang Huiwei , Zhang Qianqian
Published: July 2021

Groundwater is an eco-environmental factor and critical resource required for human life and socioeconomic development. Understanding the evolution of groundwater chemistry and its controlling factors are imperative for preventing its deterioration and ensuring its sustainable use. We studied the characteristics of groundwater chemistry in the Huangshui River Basin in Qinghai Province, China using hydrochemical techniques. Additionally, we identified the controlling factors of groundwater chemistry in this region using multivariate statistical techniques. Seventeen hydrochemical parameters of groundwater were investigated at 156 sites in June 2019. The results showed that total hardness, Fe, NO3−, SO42−, and Cl− were primary pollution factors of groundwater in this region, and that 33.3%, 35.3%, 8.97%, 23.1%, and 7.69% of the samples exceeded Grade III standards for groundwater quality in China, respectively. Land use types also significantly affected groundwater hydrochemistry. The hydrochemical composition of groundwater in industrial areas is more strongly influenced by human activities. The major hydrochemical types identified in the region were HCO3-Ca·Mg and HCO3·SO4-Ca·Mg. Additionally, high proportions of SO4 (50.6%), Na (32.1%), and Cl (13.5%) groundwater types revealed the influence of anthropogenic activities on the groundwater hydrochemistry. Rock weathering was the major factor influencing the groundwater hydrochemistry, while evaporation–condensation and anthropogenic activities also influenced the hydrochemical characteristics of groundwater. The hydrochemical composition of groundwater was mainly controlled by silicate rock weathering. The main controlling factors of groundwater hydrochemistry were water–rock interactions, “physicochemical” factors (nature processes), domestic sewage, chemical fertilizer, and industrial sewage (human activities).
Optimization of Betalain Pigments Extraction Using Beetroot by-Products as a Valuable Source
Authors: Lazăr (Mistrianu) Silvia , Constantin Oana Emilia , Stănciuc Nicoleta , Aprodu Iuliana , Croitoru Constantin , Râpeanu Gabriela
Published: July 2021

(1) Background: This study is designed to extract the bioactive compounds from beetroot peel for future use in the food industry. (2) Methods: Spectrophotometry techniques analyzed the effect of conventional solvent extraction on betalains and polyphenolic compounds from beetroot peels. Several treatments by varying for factors (ethanol and citric acid concentration, temperature, and time) were applied to the beetroot peel samples. A Central Composite Design (CCD) has been used to investigate the effect of the extraction parameters on the extraction steps and optimize the betalains and total polyphenols extraction from beetroot. A quadratic model was suggested for all the parameters analyzed and used. (3) Results: The maximum and minimum variables investigated in the experimental plan in the coded form are citric acid concentration (0.10–1.5%), ethanol concentration (10–50%), operating temperature (20–60 °C), and extraction time (15–50 min). The experimental design revealed variation in betalain content ranging from 0.29 to 1.44 mg/g DW, and the yield of polyphenolic varied from 1.64 to 2.74 mg/g DW. The optimized conditions for the maximum recovery of betalains and phenols were citric acid concentration 1.5%, ethanol concentration 50%, temperature 52.52 °C, and extraction time 49.9 min. (4) Conclusions: Overall, it can be noted that the extraction process can be improved by adjusting operating variables in order to maximize the model responses.
Semi-Dilute Dumbbells: Solutions of the Fokker–Planck Equation
Authors: Chaffin Stephen , Rees Julia
Published: July 2021

Spring bead models are commonly used in the constitutive equations for polymer melts. One such model based on kinetic theory—the finitely extensible nonlinear elastic dumbbell model incorporating a Peterlin closure approximation (FENE-P)—has previously been applied to study concentration-dependent anisotropy with the inclusion of a mean-field term to account for intermolecular forces in dilute polymer solutions for background profiles of weak shear and elongation. These investigations involved the solution of the Fokker–Planck equation incorporating a constitutive equation for the second moment. In this paper, we extend this analysis to include the effects of large background shear and elongation beyond the Hookean regime. Further, the constitutive equation is solved for the probability density function which permits the computation of any macroscopic variable, allowing direct comparison of the model predictions with molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that if the concentration effects at equilibrium are taken into account, the FENE-P model gives qualitatively the correct predictions, although the over-shoot in extension in comparison to the infinitely dilute case is significantly underpredicted.
A New Characterization of Mental Health Disorders Using Digital Behavioral Data: Evidence from Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Taliaz Dekel , Souery Daniel
Published: July 2021

Mental health disorders are ambiguously defined and diagnosed. The established diagnosis technique, which is based on structured interviews, questionnaires and data subjectively reported by the patients themselves, leaves the mental health field behind other medical areas. We support these statements with examples from major depressive disorder (MDD). The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) launched the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) project in 2009 as a new framework to investigate psychiatric pathologies from a multidisciplinary point of view. This is a good step in the right direction. Contemporary psychiatry considers mental illnesses as diseases that manifest in the mind and arise from the brain, expressed as a behavioral condition; therefore, we claim that these syndromes should be characterized primarily using behavioral characteristics. We suggest the use of smartphones and wearable devices to passively collect quantified behavioral data from patients by utilizing digital biomarkers of mental disorder symptoms. Various digital biomarkers of MDD symptoms have already been detected, and apps for collecting this longitudinal behavioral data have already been developed. This quantified data can be used to determine a patient’s diagnosis and personalized treatment, and thereby minimize the diagnosis rate of comorbidities. As there is a wide spectrum of human behavior, such a fluidic and personalized approach is essential.
Decreased Production of TNF-α and IL-6 Inflammatory Cytokines in Non-Pregnant Idiopathic RPL Women Immunomodulatory Effect of Sildenafil Citrate on the Cellular Response of Idiopathic RPL Women
Authors: Kniotek Monika , Zych Michał , Roszczyk Aleksander , Szafarowska Monika , Jerzak Małgorzata Maria
Published: July 2021

Sildenafil citrate (SC), a PDE5 inhibitor, a drug for erectile dysfunction (ED) and pulmonary hypertension (PAH), was found to exert a positive effect on pregnancy outcomes when administered intravaginally before conception. In our previous studies, sildenafil increased endometrial thickness and significantly decreased peripheral blood NK cell activity after the intravaginal administration in women with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). No data are available to confirm the effect of sildenafil on maternal T cell populations involved in shaping fetal-maternal tolerance and NK cell activity. Thus, the present study aimed to establish if SC influences NKT cells or the axis of Th17/Treg cells and Th1/Th2 cytokine production. Materials and methods: Twenty-one healthy fertile women and twenty-two nonpregnant women with idiopathic RPL were studied. The ELISA method was used to evaluate the production of cytokines, including IL-2, IL-12p40, IL-4, IL-10, IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, TGF-β, TNF-α, and IFN-γ in PBMC culture supernatants before and after supplementation with the physiological concentration of SC. The percentages of NKT (CD56+CD3+CD44+CD161+), Treg (CD4+CD25+FOXP3+) and Th17 (CD4+CD25+IL-17A+) cells were determined with flow cytometry method. Results: Unexpectedly, we found that the PBMCs of patients with RPL produced a significantly lower level of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and a higher level of anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β and IL-10). SC significantly decreased IL-6, IL-12 and increased TGF-β cytokine concentration in fertile women. In the case of RPL patients’ PBMCs, SC improved the production of TNF-α and IL-10. Conclusions: Lower concentration of proinflammatory cytokines in idiopathic RPL women compared to fertile women might suggest the exhaustion of the immune system. The emphasized production of IL-10 by SC partially explains the previously observed downregulation of NK cell activity in RPL patients. The immunomodulatory effect of the drug might be utilized in anti-inflammatory therapies and help achieve positive pregnancy outcomes in women with reproductive failure due to a Th1/Th2 imbalance.
Muscle Activation during Gait in Unilateral Transtibial Amputee Patients with Prosthesis: The Influence of the Insole Material Density
Authors: Sarroca Nuria , Luesma María José , Valero José , Deus Javier , Casanova Josefa , Lahoz Manuel
Published: July 2021

Background: Walking is a complex process that is highly automated and efficient. This knowledge is essential for the study of pathological gait. The amputation of lower limbs involves new biomechanical load and gait patterns, and injuries due to overload or disuse may occur. The objective of this study is to assess muscle activation as part of the gait in unilateral transtibial amputee patients with prosthesis, at different speeds and with different plantar supports. Method: Included in the sample were 25 people with amputation and 25 control participants. Muscle activation was evaluated in both groups by means of surface electromyography (EMG) under normal and altered conditions. Results: Control participants did not show statistically significant differences (p ˃ 0.05) between their muscle groups, irrespective of support and speed. However, people with amputation did show differences in muscle activity in the quadriceps, all of which occurred at the highest speeds, irrespective of support. In the analysis between groups, significant differences (p < 0.05) were obtained between the leg of the amputee patient and the leg of the control participant, all of them in the quadriceps, and at speeds 3 and 4, regardless of the insole used. Conclusions: Participants with unilateral transtibial amputation carry out more quadriceps muscle activity during gait compared to the control group.
A Methodological Approach to Evaluate Security Requirements Engineering Methodologies: Application to the IREHDO2 Project Context
Authors: Laborde Romain , Bulusu Sravani Teja , Wazan Ahmad Samer , Oglaza Arnaud , Benzekri Abdelmalek
Published: July 2021

An effective network security requirement engineering is needed to help organizations in capturing cost-effective security solutions that protect networks against malicious attacks while meeting the business requirements. The diversity of currently available security requirement engineering methodologies leads security requirements engineers to an open question: How to choose one? We present a global evaluation methodology that we applied during the IREHDO2 project to find a requirement engineering method that could improve network security. Our evaluation methodology includes a process to determine pertinent evaluation criteria and a process to evaluate the requirement engineering methodologies. Our main contribution is to involve stakeholders (i.e., security requirements engineers) in the evaluation process by following a requirement engineering approach. We describe our experiments conducted during the project with security experts and the feedback we obtained. Although we applied it to evaluate three requirements engineering methods (KAOS, STS and SEPP) in the context of network security, our evaluation methodology can be instantiated in other contexts and other methods.
Fatigue Behavior Comparison of Inter-Ply and Intra-Ply Hybrid Flax-Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites
Authors: Islam Md Zahirul , Amiri Ali , Ulven Chad A.
Published: July 2021

Hybridization of natural fiber with synthetic fiber to reinforce polymer matrix composites is an effective way of increasing fatigue strength of composites with substantial amount of bio-based content. Flax is the strongest type of bast natural fiber, possessing excellent mechanical and damping properties. Fatigue properties of flax fiber hybridized with synthetic carbon fiber reinforced polymer matrix composites were studied. Fatigue properties of inter-ply hybrid flax-carbon fiber reinforced composite were compared to intra-ply hybrid flax-carbon fiber reinforced composites through tensile fatigue testing at 70% load of ultimate tensile strength and with a loading frequency of 3 Hz. For similar amount (by mass) of flax and carbon fiber, intra-ply flax-carbon fiber hybrid reinforced composite exhibited a very large increase (>2000%) in fatigue life compared to inter-ply flax-carbon fiber hybrid reinforced composites. Suitable hybridization can produce hybrid composites that are as strong as synthetic fiber composites while containing a high bio-based content of natural fibers.
Nature-Inspired Modified Bat Algorithm for the High-Efficiency Optimization of a Multistage Centrifugal Pump for a Reverse Osmosis Desalination System
Authors: Gong Xiaobo , Pei Ji , Wang Wenjie , Osman Majeed Koranteng , Jiang Wei , Zhao Jiantao , Deng Qifan
Published: July 2021

The high-pressure multistage centrifugal pump is the main piece of energy-consuming equipment in the reverse osmosis desalination process, and it consumes about 35% of the entire system’s operating cost. The optimization process of multi-stage pumps undoubtedly requires the performance comparison of multiple schemes in order to verify the effectiveness of the optimized design and the optimization method. Therefore, based on ANSYS Workbench and an improved bat algorithm, an intelligent optimization scheme was designed and carried out on a three-stage reverse osmosis desalination high-pressure pump for efficiency improvement by optimizing the matching relationship between the impeller and the guide vane. An external characteristic test was carried out in an open test rig system in order to verify the numerical model. After modifying the positive guide vane structure, the efficiency was improved for both the rated design and the non-design flow conditions without obvious separation and backflow. With the improved bat algorithm, there was a 3.98% increase in the design point efficiency after the final optimization. Under the design conditions, all of the large vortices disappeared after the optimization. The study provides a reference for the optimization design of the impeller–guide vane matching effect in a multistage pump using an improved bat algorithm.
Assessing Genotypic and Environmental Effects on Endophyte Communities of Fraxinus (Ash) Using Culture Dependent and Independent DNA Sequencing
Authors: Lahiri Anindita , Murphy Brian R. , Hodkinson Trevor R.
Published: July 2021

Fraxinus excelsior populations are in decline due to the ash dieback disease Hymenoscyphus fraxineus. It is important to understand genotypic and environmental effects on its fungal microbiome to develop disease management strategies. To do this, we used culture dependent and culture independent approaches to characterize endophyte material from contrasting ash provenances, environments, and tissues (leaves, roots, seeds). Endophytes were isolated and identified using nrITS, LSU, or tef DNA loci in the culture dependent assessments, which were mostly Ascomycota and assigned to 37 families. Few taxa were shared between roots and leaves. The culture independent approach used high throughput sequencing (HTS) of nrITS amplicons directly from plant DNA and detected 35 families. Large differences were found in OTU diversity and community composition estimated by the contrasting approaches and these data need to be combined for estimations of the core endophyte communities. Species richness and Shannon index values were highest for the leaf material and the French population. Few species were shared between seed and leaf tissue. PCoA and NMDS of the HTS data showed that seed and leaf microbiome communities were highly distinct and that there was a strong influence of Fraxinus species identity on their fungal community composition. The results will facilitate a better understanding of ash fungal ecology and are a step toward identifying microbial biocontrol systems to minimize the impact of the disease.
True Kinematic Alignment Is Applicable in 44% of Patients Applying Restrictive Indication Criteria—A Retrospective Analysis of 111 TKA Using Robotic Assistance
Authors: Huber Kim , Christen Bernhard , Calliess Sarah , Calliess Tilman
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Image-based robotic assistance appears to be a promising tool for individualizing alignment in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The patient-specific model of the knee enables a preoperative 3D planning of component position. Adjustments to the individual soft-tissue situation can be done intraoperatively. Based on this, we have established a standardized workflow to implement the idea of kinematic alignment (KA) for robotic-assisted TKA. In addition, we have defined limits for its use. If these limits are reached, we switch to a restricted KA (rKA). The aim of the study was to evaluate (1) in what percentage of patients a true KA or an rKA is applicable, (2) whether there were differences regarding knee phenotypes, and (3) what the differences of philosophies in terms of component position, joint stability, and early patient outcome were. Methods: The study included a retrospective analysis of 111 robotic-assisted primary TKAs. Based on preoperative long leg standing radiographs, the patients were categorized into a varus, valgus, or neutral subgroup. Initially, all patients were planned for KA TKA. When the defined safe zone had been exceeded, adjustments to an rKA were made. Intraoperatively, the alignment of the components and joint gaps were recorded by robotic software. Results and conclusion: With our indication for TKA and the defined boundaries, “only” 44% of the patients were suitable for a true KA with no adjustments or soft tissue releases. In the varus group, it was about 70%, whereas it was 0% in the valgus group and 25% in the neutral alignment group. Thus, significant differences with regard to knee morphotypes were evident. In the KA group, a more physiological knee balance reconstructing the trapezoidal flexion gap (+2 mm on average laterally) was seen as well as a closer reconstruction of the surface anatomy and joint line in all dimensions compared to rKA. This resulted in a higher improvement in the collected outcome scores in favor of KA in the very early postoperative phase.
Assessing the Impacts of Engaging with a Touch Table on Safari Park Visitors
Authors: Davies Naomi , Sowerby Ellie , Johnson Bridget
Published: July 2021

Modern zoos are increasingly viewed as educational facilities, with informal education programmes attempting to engage with visitors through a wide variety of methods. A ‘touch table’ consists of two collapsible tables which display a variety of artefacts to the public. This study investigated visitor engagement with touch tables alongside types of conversations being initiated by visitors. Covert observations recorded the type of groups visiting, their dwell time, perceived engagement level and the types of interactions and conversations they were initiating at the touch table. Dwell time was affected by the season, member of staff present, type of group visiting the touch table and engagement level of the group. Engagement level was also affected by group type. Longer average dwell time and higher engagement levels were displayed at a long-established touch table location, whereas more visitors engaged at the touch table when it was at a new location with predicted high footfall. Here, 68.3% of visitors initiated ‘surface level’ conversation, 27.2% initiated ‘deeper level’ conversation and 89.6% initiated ‘other’ conversation. This study resulted in touch table offerings being adapted to further increase their effectiveness as an informal education tool and to suggests ways in which touch tables can continue in a post COVID-19 world.
Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) versus Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion (OLIF) in Interbody Fusion Technique for Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chang Min Cheol , Kim Gang-Un , Choo Yoo Jin , Lee Gun Woo
Published: July 2021

Preoperative pathology requiring fusion surgery has a great impact on postoperative outcomes. However, the previous clinical and meta-analysis studies did not control for the pathology. In this systematic review, the authors aimed to compare oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) with transforaminal interbody fusion (TLIF) as an interbody fusion technique in lumbar fusion surgery for patients with degenerative spondylolisthesis (DS). We systematically searched for relevant articles in the available databases. Among the 3022 articles, three studies were identified and met the inclusion criteria. In terms of radiological outcome, the amount of disc height restoration was greater in the OLIF group than in the TLIF group, but there was no significant difference between the two surgical techniques (p = 0.18). In the clinical outcomes, the pain improvement was not significantly different between the two surgical techniques. In terms of surgical outcomes, OLIF resulted in a shorter length of hospital stay and less blood loss than TLIF (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.02, respectively). The present meta-analysis indicated no significant difference in clinical, radiological outcomes, and surgical time between TLIF and OLIF for DS, but the lengths of hospital stay and blood loss were better in OLIF than TLIF. Though encouraging, these findings were based on low-quality evidence from a small number of retrospective studies that are prone to bias.
An Experimental Study of Clogging Recovery Measures for Ceramic Permeable Bricks
Authors: Lin Zizeng , Yang Hai , Chen Huiming
Published: July 2021

To explore the best clogging restoration measures for ceramic permeable bricks, ceramic permeable bricks were accurately clogged using a self-designed device by controlling the permeability, and different technical measures were adopted to restore the permeability. Then, the recovery effect, operating parameters and pore change inside the bricks using pressure washing were further discussed. The results showed that pressure washing was the best recovery measure, the joint methods was not recommended due to performance to price ratio. It was necessary to conduct pressure washing in relatively moist conditions, increase the cleaning frequency or prolong the cleaning time in the case of no serious blockage. Hydraulic cleaning can not only increase isolated pores but also remove the trapped solid particles, and increase the proportion of connected pores and dredges through water channels. This research offers some reference for the daily maintenance of permeable bricks.
The Influence of Sheet Tilting on Forming Quality in Single Point Incremental Forming
Authors: Zhu Hu , Wang Yang , Liu Yibo , Jung Dongwon
Published: July 2021

In the CNC incremental forming process, the sheet tilting method can be used to realize the non-fracture forming of a surface with large forming angles. However, the forming effect of the formed part will have big differences when the inclined angle of the sheet is different. Therefore, four different tilted sheets with inclined angles of 15°, 20°, 25°, and 30° were used to study the influence of sheet tilting on forming quality by using 1060 Aluminum sheet as the forming sheet in single point CNC incremental forming. First, the influence of four different inclined angles of the sheet on the overall thickness distribution, plastic strain, and material flow of the formed part was studied by using numerical simulation. Then, the influence of four different inclined angles of sheets on the profile accuracy and thickness thinning rate of the formed part was studied through single point incremental forming experiments. The research results show that sheet tilting has little effect on the profile accuracy of the formed part, but has a great influence on the material flow, plastic strain, and thickness distribution.