bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classical and Quantum Collective Recoil Lasing: A Tutorial
Authors: Piovella Nicola , Gisbert Angel Tarramera , Robb Gordon R. M.
Published: July 2021

Collective atomic recoil lasing (CARL) is a process during which an ensemble of cold atoms, driven by a far-detuned laser beam, spontaneously organize themselves in periodic structures on the scale of the optical wavelength. The principle was envisaged by R. Bonifacio in 1994 and, ten years later, observed in a series of experiments in Tübingen by C. Zimmermann and colleagues. Here, we review the basic model of CARL in the classical and in the quantum regime.
Adapting Polarized Projective Mapping to Investigate Fruitiness Aroma Perception of White Wines from Oregon
Authors: Iobbi Angelica , Tomasino Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Fruitiness is a highly desirable aroma quality in white wines. This study aimed to investigate the fruitiness aroma perception of white wines using a rapid sensory method and to compare the sensory maps obtained from wine experts and trained consumers. A polarized projective mapping (PPM) method was adapted by using fruit standards as fixed poles. Twenty-one white wines were selected for this study. Ten wine experts and twelve trained consumers participated in the adapted PPM followed by ultra-flash profiling (UFP). While experts and trained consumers used different poles to characterize the Pinot Gris and Viogniers, both panels used the stone fruit pole for the Chardonnays. UFP revealed that the Pinot Gris and Viognier samples presented fruity and floral aromas and most Chardonnay wines presented non-fruity aromas. The white wines investigated presented a wide range of fruity aromas. The use of aroma standards instead of products as poles seems to be a reliable alternative to investigate fruitiness in white wines. This study helped us to understand the predominant aromas of varietal white wines from Oregon and emphasized the importance of adapting sensory methods to investigate fruitiness perception.
Unpredictable, Counter-Intuitive Geoclimatic and Demographic Correlations of COVID-19 Spread Rates
Authors: Seligmann Hervé , Vuillerme Nicolas , Demongeot Jacques
Published: July 2021

We present spread parameters for first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic for USA states, and for consecutive nonoverlapping periods of 20 days for the USA and 51 countries across the globe. We studied spread rates in the USA states and 51 countries, and analyzed associations between spread rates at different periods, and with temperature, elevation, population density and age. USA first/second wave spread rates increase/decrease with population density, and are uncorrelated with temperature and median population age. Spread rates are systematically inversely proportional to those estimated 80–100 days later. Ascending/descending phases of the same wave only partially explain this. Directions of correlations with factors such as temperature and median age flip. Changes in environmental trends of the COVID-19 pandemic remain unpredictable; predictions based on classical epidemiological knowledge are highly uncertain. Negative associations between population density and spread rates, observed in independent samples and at different periods, are most surprising. We suggest that systematic negative associations between spread rates 80–100 days apart could result from confinements selecting for greater contagiousness, a potential double-edged sword effect of confinements.
Cannabinoquinones: Synthesis and Biological Profile
Authors: Caprioglio Diego , Mattoteia Daiana , Taglialatela-Scafati Orazio , Muñoz Eduardo , Appendino Giovanni
Published: July 2021

Neutral cannabinoids are oxidatively unstable and are converted into quinone derivatives by atmospheric- and/or chemical oxidative dearomatization. The study of cannabinoquinones has long been plagued by their lability toward additional oxidative degradation, but full substitution of the quinone ring, as well as the introduction of steric hindrance on the alkyl substituent, have provided sufficient stability for a systematic investigation of their bioactivity and for further clinical development. These studies culminated in the discovery of the aminocannabinoquinone VCE-004.8 (5), a compound under phase 2 clinical development with orphan drug status by EMA and FDA for the management of scleroderma. The synthesis and rich chemistry of these compounds will be described, summarizing their biological profile and clinical potential.
Phosphorylation of RCC1 on Serine 11 Facilitates G1/S Transition in HPV E7-Expressing Cells
Authors: Hou Xiaoyan , Qiao Lijun , Liu Ruijuan , Han Xuechao , Zhang Weifang
Published: July 2021

Persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) plays a causal role in cervical cancer. Regulator of chromosome condensation 1 (RCC1) is a critical cell cycle regulator, which undergoes a few post-translational modifications including phosphorylation. Here, we showed that serine 11 (S11) of RCC1 was phosphorylated in HPV E7-expressing cells. However, S11 phosphorylation was not up-regulated by CDK1 in E7-expressing cells; instead, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway promoted S11 phosphorylation. Knockdown of AKT or inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway down-regulated phosphorylation of RCC1 S11. Furthermore, S11 phosphorylation occurred throughout the cell cycle, and reached its peak during the mitosis phase. Our previous data proved that RCC1 was necessary for the G1/S cell cycle progression, and in the present study we showed that the RCC1 mutant, in which S11 was mutated to alanine (S11A) to mimic non-phosphorylation status, lost the ability to facilitate G1/S transition in E7-expressing cells. Moreover, RCC1 S11 was phosphorylated by the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in HPV-positive cervical cancer SiHa and HeLa cells. We conclude that S11 of RCC1 is phosphorylated by the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and phosphorylation of RCC1 S11 facilitates the abrogation of G1 checkpoint in HPV E7-expressing cells. In short, our study explores a new role of RCC1 S11 phosphorylation in cell cycle regulation.
Evaluation of Pulp Repair after BiodentineTM Full Pulpotomy in a Rat Molar Model of Pulpitis
Authors: Minic Sandra , Florimond Marion , Sadoine Jérémy , Valot-Salengro Anne , Chaussain Catherine , Renard Emmanuelle , Boukpessi Tchilalo
Published: July 2021

Dental pulp is a dynamic tissue able to heal after injury under moderate inflammatory conditions. Our study aimed to evaluate pulp repair under inflammatory conditions in rats. For this purpose, we developed a rat model of controlled pulpitis followed by pulpotomy with a tricalcium silicate-based cement. Fifty-four cavities were prepared on the occlusal face of the maxillary upper first molar of 27 eight-week-old male rats. E. coli lipopolysaccharides at 10 mg/mL or phosphate-buffered saline PBS was injected after pulp injury. Non-inflamed molars were used as controls. Levels of inflammation-related molecules were measured 6 and 24 h after induction by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of coronal pulp samples. Pulp capping and coronal obturation after pulpotomy were performed with tricalcium silicate-based cement. Four and fifteen days after pulpotomy, histological and immunohistochemical analysis was performed to assess pulp inflammation and repair processes. Our results showed significantly higher levels of innate inflammatory proteins (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and CXCL-1) compared with those in controls. Moderate residual inflammation near the capping material was demonstrated by histology and immunohistochemistry, with the presence of few CD68-positive cells. We showed that, in this model of controlled pulpitis, pulpotomy with BiodentineTM allowed the synthesis at the injury site of a mineralized bridge formed from mineralized tissue secreted by cells displaying odontoblastic characteristics. Analysis of these data suggests overall that, with the limitations inherent to findings in animal models, pulpotomy with a silicate-based cement is a good treatment for controlling inflammation and enhancing repair in cases of controlled pulpitis.
Is It Definitely Clear That Long-Term Survival after Breast Cancer Surgery Is Not Affected by Anaesthetics?
Authors: Enlund Mats
Published: July 2021

Retrospective studies indicate that cancer survival may be affected by the anaesthetic technique. Propofol seems to be a better choice than volatile anaesthetics, such as sevoflurane. The first two retrospective studies suggested better long-term survival with propofol, but not for breast cancer. Subsequent retrospective studies from Asia indicated the same. When data from seven Swedish hospitals were analysed, including 6305 breast cancer patients, different analyses gave different results, from a non-significant difference in survival to a remarkably large difference in favour of propofol, an illustration of the innate weakness in the retrospective design. The largest randomised clinical trial, registered on clinicaltrial.gov, with survival as an outcome is the Cancer and Anesthesia study. Patients are here randomised to propofol or sevoflurane. The inclusion of patients with breast cancer was completed in autumn 2017. Delayed by the pandemic, one-year survival data for the cohort were presented in November 2020. Due to the extremely good short-term survival for breast cancer, one-year survival is of less interest for this disease. As the inclusions took almost five years, there was also a trend to observe. Unsurprisingly, no difference was found in one-year survival between the two groups, and the trend indicated no difference either.
Sulfide Stress Cracking of C-110 Steel in a Sour Environment
Authors: Tale Sagar , Ahmed Ramadan , Elgaddafi Rida , Teodoriu Catalin
Published: July 2021

The scope of this study includes modeling and experimental investigation of sulfide stress cracking (SSC) of high-strength carbon steel. A model has been developed to predict hydrogen permeation in steel for a given pressure and temperature condition. The model is validated with existing and new laboratory measurements. The experiments were performed using C-110 grade steel specimens. The specimens were aged in 2% (wt.) brine saturated with mixed gas containing CH4, CO2, and H2S. The concentration H2S was maintained constant (280 ppm) while varying the partial pressure ratio of CO2 (i.e., the ratio of partial pressure of CO2 to the total pressure) from 0 to 15%. The changes occurring in the mechanical properties of the specimens were evaluated after exposure to assess material embrittlement and SSC corrosion. Besides this, the cracks developed on the surface of the specimens were examined using an optical microscope. Results show that the hydrogen permeation, and subsequently SSC resistance, of C-110 grade steel were strongly influenced by the Partial Pressure Ratio (PPR) of CO2 when the PPR was between 0 and 5%. The PPR of CO2 had a limited impact on the SSC process when it was between 10 and 15 percent.
Suppression of Acoustic Resonances in BST-Based Bulk-Ceramic Varactors by Addition of Magnesium Borate
Authors: Agrawal Prannoy , Kienemund Daniel , Walk Dominik , Matic Stipo , Bohn Nicole , Häuser Kevin , Fink Thomas , Abrecht Mike , Bigler Walter , Binder Joachim R. , Jakoby Rolf , Maune Holger
Published: July 2021

This work presents a method for reducing acoustic resonances in ferroelectric barium strontium titanate (BST)-based bulk ceramic varactors, which are capable of operation in high-power matching circuits. Two versions of parallel-plate varactors are manufactured here: one with pure BST and one with 10 vol-% magnesium borate, Mg3B2O6 (MBO). Each varactor includes a 0.85-mm-thick ferroelectric layer. Acoustic resonances that are present in the pure BST varactor are strongly suppressed in the BST-MBO varactor and, hence, the Q-factor is increased over a wide frequency range by the addition of small amounts of a low-dielectric-constant (LDK) MBO. Although the tunability is reduced due to the presence of non-tunable MBO, the increased Q-factor extends the varactor’s availability for low-loss and high-power applications.
Clinical Implications of “Atypia” on Biopsy: Possible Precursor to Lung Cancer?
Authors: Albano Denise , Santore Lee Ann , Bilfinger Thomas , Feraca Melissa , Novotny Samantha , Nemesure Barbara
Published: July 2021

Background: It is common for biopsies of concerning pulmonary nodules to result in cytologic “atypia” on biopsy, which may represent a benign response or a false negative finding. This investigation evaluated time to diagnosis and factors which may predict an ultimate diagnosis of lung cancer in these patients with atypia cytology on lung nodule biopsy. Methods: This retrospective study included patients of the Stony Brook Lung Cancer Evaluation Center who had a biopsy baseline diagnosis of atypia between 2010 and 2020 and were either diagnosed with cancer or remained disease free by the end of the observation period. Cox Proportional Hazard (CPH) Models were used to assess factor effects on outcomes. Results: Among 106 patients with an initial diagnosis of atypia, 80 (75%) were diagnosed with lung cancer. Of those, over three-quarters were diagnosed within 6 months. The CPH models indicated that PET positivity (SUV ≥ 2.5) (HR = 1.74 (1.03, 2.94)), nodule size > 3.5 cm (HR = 2.83, 95% CI (1.47, 5.45)) and the presence of mixed ground glass opacities (HR = 2.15 (1.05, 4.43)) significantly increased risk of lung cancer. Conclusion: Given the high conversion rate to cancer within 6 months, at least tight monitoring, if not repeat biopsy may be warranted during this time period for patients diagnosed with atypia.
Does the Time of Day at Which Endocrine Therapy Is Taken Affect Breast Cancer Patient Outcomes?
Authors: Beltran-Bless Ana-Alicia , Vandermeer Lisa , Ibrahim Mohammed F. K. , Hutton Brian , Shorr Risa , Savard Marie-France , Clemons Mark
Published: July 2021

Background: Non-compliance and non-persistence with endocrine therapy for breast cancer is common and usually related to treatment-induced side effects. There are anecdotal reports that simply changing the time of day when taking endocrine therapy (i.e., changing morning dosing to evening dosing or vice versa) can reduce side effects. Literature review: We conducted a literature review to evaluate whether changing the timing of tamoxifen and/or aromatase inhibitor administration impacted patient outcomes. No randomized control trials or prospective cohort studies that looked at time of day of endocrine therapy were identified through our review of literature from 1947 until August 2020. Conclusions: Given the rates of endocrine therapy non-compliance and non-persistence reported in the literature, ranging from 41–72% and 31–73%, respectively, simply changing the time of day when medications are taken could be an important strategy. We could identify no trials evaluating the effect of changes in timing of administration of endocrine therapy on breast cancer patient outcomes. Randomized control trials are clearly indicated for this simple and cost-effective intervention.
Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase- and CD30-Positive Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma of the External Auditory Canal
Authors: Chen Shih-Lung , Chan Kai-Chieh
Published: July 2021

Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL), a form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, is rare in the external auditory canal (EAC). ALCL in the EAC region is challenging for clinicians and pathologists. We report a 34-year-old male presented with the chief complaint of a painless mass in the left EAC for approximately 2 weeks. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)- and CD30-positive ALCL were confirmed using computed tomography, positron emission tomography, histopathological examination and IHC staining. We compared the clinicopathological characteristics of our patient with those of previous cases. The biopsy and IHC findings confirmed the rare diagnosis of ALK- and CD30-positive ALCL of the EAC. Radiotherapy and concurrent chemoradiotherapy are indicated for lymphoma depending on the extent of the disease. Brentuximab vedotin as initial salvage therapy should be considered for recurrent or refractory ALK-positive ALCL.
Overexpressed Proteins in HCC Cell-Derived Exosomes, CCT8, and Cofilin-1 Are Potential Biomarkers for Patients with HCC
Authors: Cho Hyo Jung , Baek Geum Ok , Yoon Moon Gyeong , Ahn Hye Ri , Son Ju A , Kim Soon Sun , Cheong Jae Youn , Eun Jung Woo
Published: July 2021

Protein markers of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)-derived exosomes (HEX) have not yet been fully evaluated. Here, we identified novel protein contents of HEX and their clinical significance as biomarkers. Exosomes were isolated from human HCC cell lines and an immortalized normal hepatocyte cell line. Proteomic analyses revealed 15 markedly overexpressed proteins in HEX. The clinical relevance of the 15 proteins was analyzed in public RNA-sequencing datasets, and 6 proteins were selected as candidate of potential biomarkers. Serum CCT8 and CFL1 were markedly overexpressed in test cohort (n = 8). In the validation cohort (n = 224), the area under the curve (AUC) of serum CCT8 and CFL1 for HCC diagnosis was calculated as 0.698 and 0.677, respectively, whereas that of serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was 0.628. The combination of three serum markers (CCT8, CFL1, and AFP) demonstrated the highest AUC for HCC diagnosis. (AUC = 0.838, 95% confidence interval = 0.773–0.876) Furthermore, higher serum CCT8 and CFL1 concentrations were significantly associated with the presence of vascular invasion, advanced tumor stage, poor disease-free survival, and poor overall survival. Cofilin-1 and CCT8, enriched proteins in HEX, were identified as potential diagnostic and prognostic serum biomarkers for HCC patients.
An Efficient Far-Field Wireless Power Transfer via Field Intensity Shaping Techniques
Authors: Bevacqua Martina T. , Bellizzi Gennaro G. , Merenda Massimo
Published: July 2021

Radiative (or far-field) energy replenishment for devices such as smartphones, laptops, robots, and small electric appliances paves the way to autonomous and continuous devices functioning, thus bypassing the need of operation interruptions, human maintenance activities, and replenishment by wired transformers. In this work, we investigate the feasibility of using a properly engineered antenna array able to deliver radiative power to devices in need of energy replenishment during their normal and unsupervised activity, whose locations are unknown. Both the case of single and multiple devices needing energy replenishment are addressed. A quantitative proof-of-concept study is carried out to validate the proposed approach. A 3D scenario is simulated to study the case of devices in need of energy replenishment within a standard office environment. Different antenna array configurations are investigated and the corresponding performances benchmarked against a standard installation of recharging antennas. Results confirm the outstanding capability of the proposed approach in terms of confinement and maximization of power transfer. Finally, in this framework, we also propose an efficient communication protocol that is able to manage multiple recharge demand given different operational rules.
Communication Failure Resilient Distributed Neural Network for Edge Devices
Authors: Jeong Jonghun , Park Jong Sung , Yang Hoeseok
Published: July 2021

Recently, the necessity to run high-performance neural networks (NN) is increasing even in resource-constrained embedded systems such as wearable devices. However, due to the high computational and memory requirements of the NN applications, it is typically infeasible to execute them on a single device. Instead, it has been proposed to run a single NN application cooperatively on top of multiple devices, a so-called distributed neural network. In the distributed neural network, workloads of a single big NN application are distributed over multiple tiny devices. While the computation overhead could effectively be alleviated by this approach, the existing distributed NN techniques, such as MoDNN, still suffer from large traffics between the devices and vulnerability to communication failures. In order to get rid of such big communication overheads, a knowledge distillation based distributed NN, called Network of Neural Networks (NoNN), was proposed, which partitions the filters in the final convolutional layer of the original NN into multiple independent subsets and derives smaller NNs out of each subset. However, NoNN also has limitations in that the partitioning result may be unbalanced and it considerably compromises the correlation between filters in the original NN, which may result in an unacceptable accuracy degradation in case of communication failure. In this paper, in order to overcome these issues, we propose to enhance the partitioning strategy of NoNN in two aspects. First, we enhance the redundancy of the filters that are used to derive multiple smaller NNs by means of averaging to increase the immunity of the distributed NN to communication failure. Second, we propose a novel partitioning technique, modified from Eigenvector-based partitioning, to preserve the correlation between filters as much as possible while keeping the consistent number of filters distributed to each device. Throughout extensive experiments with the CIFAR-100 (Canadian Institute For Advanced Research-100) dataset, it has been observed that the proposed approach maintains high inference accuracy (over 70%, 1.53× improvement over the state-of-the-art approach), on average, even when a half of eight devices in a distributed NN fail to deliver their partial inference results.
Reference Architectures, Platforms, and Pilots for European Smart and Healthy Living—Analysis and Comparison
Authors: Grguric Andrej , Khan Omar , Ortega-Gil Ana , Markakis Evangelos K. , Pozdniakov Konstantin , Kloukinas Christos , Medrano-Gil Alejandro M. , Gaeta Eugenio , Fico Giuseppe , Koloutsou Konstantina
Published: July 2021

Motivated by the aging trend, much effort is being invested into implementing ICT (Information and Communications Technology)-enabled systems to provide a better quality of life and support the independent living of older people. As a result, many systems, often labeled as eHealth or AAL (Ambient/Active Assisted Living), were developed over the years. In creating such systems, which very often serve various needs, different architectures have emerged. This work focuses on analyzing and comparing the work and architectures from seven (six of which are in progress) EU-funded healthcare projects, with a total budget of 126MEUR in which we participate. After establishing the theoretical foundation by defining core concepts, we give a brief background on architectures in eHealth and AAL. We elaborate on the chosen analysis method based on three established healthcare and AAL taxonomies we identified by performing a literature survey and the selected Reference Architecture Model (RAM). Since there is no standard way of describing architectures in the eHealth and AAL domain, we conducted the online survey during August and September 2020 and identified CREATE-IoT 3D RAM as the most appropriate option. We present a classification of selected projects based on established taxonomies and map projects’ architectures to CREATE-IoT 3D RAM, which we also propose as standard RAM for future digital healthcare and AAL projects. During our analysis, we identify the most common types of assistance: communication support, reminders, monitoring, and guidance to address health and communication issues. We conclude that proper ecosystems are critical for lowering entry barriers and facilitating sustainable solutions for smart and healthy living.
Surrogate-Based Optimization of Horizontal Axis Hydrokinetic Turbine Rotor Blades
Authors: Menéndez Arán David , Menéndez Ángel
Published: July 2021

A design method was developed for automated, systematic design of hydrokinetic turbine rotor blades. The method coupled a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) solver to estimate the power output of a given turbine with a surrogate-based constrained optimization method. This allowed the characterization of the design space while minimizing the number of analyzed blade geometries and the associated computational effort. An initial blade geometry developed using a lifting line optimization method was selected as the base geometry to generate a turbine blade family by multiplying a series of geometric parameters with corresponding linear functions. A performance database was constructed for the turbine blade family with the CFD solver and used to build the surrogate function. The linear functions were then incorporated into a constrained nonlinear optimization algorithm to solve for the blade geometry with the highest efficiency. A constraint on the minimum pressure on the blade could be set to prevent cavitation inception.
Short-Term Load Forecasting Using Convolutional Neural Networks in COVID-19 Context: The Romanian Case Study
Authors: Tudose Andrei M. , Picioroaga Irina I. , Sidea Dorian O. , Bulac Constantin , Boicea Valentin A.
Published: July 2021

Short-term load forecasting (STLF) is fundamental for the proper operation of power systems, as it finds its use in various basic processes. Therefore, advanced calculation techniques are needed to obtain accurate results of the consumption prediction, taking into account the numerous exogenous factors that influence the results’ precision. The purpose of this study is to integrate, additionally to the conventional factors (weather, holidays, etc.), the current aspects regarding the global COVID-19 pandemic in solving the STLF problem, using a convolutional neural network (CNN)-based model. To evaluate and validate the impact of the new variables considered in the model, the simulations are conducted using publicly available data from the Romanian power system. A comparison study is further carried out to assess the performance of the proposed model, using the multiple linear regression method and load forecasting results provided by the Romanian Transmission System Operator (TSO). In this regard, the Mean Squared Error (MSE), the Mean Absolute Error (MAE), the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), and the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) are used as evaluation indexes. The proposed methodology shows great potential, as the results reveal better error values compared to the TSO results, despite the limited historical data.
Exhaustive Comparison between Linear and Nonlinear Approaches for Grid-Side Control of Wind Energy Conversion Systems
Authors: Azelhak Younes , Benaaouinate Loubna , Medromi Hicham , Errami Youssef , Bouragba Tarik , Voyer Damien
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we propose a comparative study of linear and nonlinear algorithms designed for grid-side control of the power flow in a wind energy conversion system. We performed several simulations and experiments with step and variable power scenarios for different values of the DC-link capacity with the DC storage element being the key element of the grid-side converter. The linear control was designed on the basis of the internal model control theory where an active damping was added to avoid steady state errors. Nonlinear controls were built using first and second order sliding mode controls with theoretical considerations to ensure accuracy and stability. We observed that the first order sliding mode control was the most efficient algorithm for controlling the DC-link voltage but that the chattering degraded the quality of the energy injected into the grid as well as the efficiency of the grid-side converter. The linear control caused overshoots on the DC-link voltage; however, this algorithm had better performance on the grid side due to its smoother control. Finally, the second order sliding mode control did not prove to be more robust than the other two algorithms. This can be explained by the fact that this control is theoretically more sensitive to converter losses.
The Spirit of Time—The Art of Self-Renovation to Improve Indoor Environment in Cultural Heritage Buildings
Authors: Senior Coline , Salaj Alenka Temeljotov , Vukmirovic Milena , Jowkar Mina , Kristl Živa
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges of an old low-standard urban district with a strong historical and cultural heritage and propose more sustainable renovation solutions, acceptable for the residents and municipality. The challenges of physical renovation or refurbishment are complex due to poor condition of the buildings, municipal ownership and governance, mixed management with community and low rents, which are insufficient to cover the costs. The paper discusses the proposed solutions of living standards, supported by the research in two directions: (i) available resources and reuse of materials, (ii) developing a renovation guidance for inhabitants from the building physics perspective, including indoor environment quality. Challenges related to energy efficiency are addressed from the decision-making perspective to overcome the barrier of lack of motivation to invest in energy-efficient measures at the individual and community level. The interdisciplinary approach complements engineering-focused studies with a focus on the comfort conditions and the influence of occupant habits in sustainable buildings. The methods used were literature review, case studies with observations and survey, looking to cover all technical, social, and historical aspects of sustainable renovation of cultural heritage buildings with the same level of importance. Results show that to keep a sustainable, low-cost urban living model, instructions for self-renovation are a valuable guidance for non-professional actors to make more sustainable choices. In conclusion, we can emphasize that inhabitants are accustomed to lower living standards, so the project is aimed to present the proper solutions for improvement as a balance between new sustainable technical solutions, personal self-renovation skills, habits, and health.
Method for Determining the Utilization Rate of Thin-Deck Shearers Based on Recorded Electromotor Loads
Authors: Kęsek Marek , Ogrodnik Romuald
Published: July 2021

Mining machinery and equipment used in modern mining are equipped with sensors and measurement systems at the stage of their production. Measuring devices are most often components of a control system or a machine performance monitoring system. In the case of headers, the primary task of these systems is to ensure safe operation and to monitor its correctness. It is customary to collect information in very large databases and analyze it when a failure occurs. Data mining methods allow for analysis to be made during the operation of machinery and mining equipment, thanks to which it is possible to determine not only their technical condition but also the causes of any changes that have occurred. The purpose of this work is to present a method for discovering missing information based on other available parameters, which facilitates the subsequent analysis of machine performance. The primary data used in this paper are the currents flowing through the windings of four header motors. In the method, the original reconstruction of the data layout was performed using the R language function, and then the analysis of the operating states of the header was performed based on these data. Based on the rules used and determined in the analysis, the percentage structure of machine operation states was obtained, which allows for additional reporting and verification of parts of the process.
Designing Cement-Based Grouting in a Rock Mass for Underground Impermeabilization
Authors: Escobal-Marcos Iñigo , Álvarez-Fernández Martina-Inmaculada , Prendes-Gero María-Belén , González-Nicieza Celestino
Published: July 2021

Fractured rock masses below the water table are a problem in underground excavations because of their low strength and high permeability. Nowadays, these negative connotations can be reduced with techniques such as injection of cement, microcement, or resins grouts. These materials increase the rock mass cohesion while reducing the flow of water through the discontinuities. This paper describes the work carried out to design a waterproofing screen for a three-storey underground basement located in a building near the Bilbao estuary (Northern Spain) and with problems of water seepage from the river. First, a survey of the rock mass is carried out. This survey shows the presence of highly fractured zones and the variability of the permeability as functions of the fractures. Subsequently, the effect on permeability caused by the injection of cement grouts and microcement is studied by means of two pilot injection boreholes and eight control boreholes. Finally, a behavioural model is proposed to explain the heterogeneity observed in the radius of influence of the injection. As a result, a waterproofing screen with three types of treatment is designed: An ordinary treatment with cement grouts, an intensive treatment with microcement grouts, and an isolation treatment with cement-bentonite grouts.
Asymmetry of Risk Evolution in Crude Oil Market: From the Perspective of Dual Attributes of Oil
Authors: Liu Yanqiong , Li Zhenghui , Yao Yanyan , Dong Hao
Published: July 2021

Investor emotional heterogeneity and oil dual attributes are the key factors that cause the asymmetry of risks in the international crude oil market. This paper uses the monthly data from April 2003 to October 2020 to identify the dynamic characteristics of oil’s commodity attribute and financial attribute, and this paper also analyzes the asymmetric characteristics of risk evolution and risk degree in the international crude oil market under the condition of oil returns heterogeneity. The empirical results show that: first, there is heterogeneity in the influence of oil attributes on the risk evolution and risk degree of the international crude oil market; second, the alternation of oil dual attributes has a significant asymmetric impact on the risk evolution of international crude oil market; third, the sudden change of international crude oil market risk caused by oil attributes is asymmetric under different oil returns trends. Based on the empirical conclusion, this paper puts forward the corresponding policy recommendations.
An Analysis of a Storage System for a Wind Farm with Ramp-Rate Limitation
Authors: D’Amico Guglielmo , Petroni Filippo , Vergine Salvatore
Published: July 2021

This paper provides evidence on how the variability of the power produced by a wind farm and its revenue are affected by implementing a ramp-rate limitation strategy and by adding a storage device to the system. The wind farm receives penalties whenever the ramp-rate limitations are not respected and may be supported by batteries to avoid this scenario. In this paper, we model the battery usage as a discrete time homogeneous Markov chain with rewards thanks to which it is possible to simulate the state of the charge of the battery and to calculate the amount of penalties suffered by the wind farm during any period. An application is performed considering the power produced by a hypothetical wind turbine located in Sardinia (Italy) using real wind speed data and electricity prices from a period of 10 years. We applied the concept of ramp-rate limitation on our hourly dataset, studying several limitation scenarios and battery capacities.
Study on Asymmetric Failure and Control Measures of Lining in Deep Large Section Chamber
Authors: Huang Yubing , Jiang Bei , Ma Yukun , Wei Huayong , Zang Jincheng , Gao Xiang
Published: July 2021

Lining is often used as the last line of defense in deep large section chamber. Under the asymmetric load, it is easy to damage, resulting in the overall repair of the chamber. Aiming at this problem, taking the pump house in Wanfu Coal Mine under construction in China as an engineering example, we analyzed the asymmetric failure of pump house lining caused by construction disturbance, established the lining mechanical model and quantitative evaluation indexes, such as bending moment change rate, bending moment balance rate, displacement change rate and displacement balance rate, studied the influence mechanism of asymmetrical coefficient, section size and lining thickness on the mechanical behavior of lining, and proposed the control measures of deep large section chamber with the core of “strengthening asymmetric support, reducing section size and improving lining strength”. The field monitoring shows that the asymmetric deformation of the pump house is effectively controlled, and the maximum displacement is only 7.3 mm, which ensures the long-term stability of the chamber.
Agrochemical and Pollution Status of Urbanized Agricultural Soils in the Central Part of Yamal Region
Authors: Nizamutdinov Timur , Abakumov Evgeny , Morgun Eugeniya , Loktev Rostislav , Kolesnikov Roman
Published: July 2021

This research looked at the state of soils faced with urbanization processes in the Arctic region of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous District (YANAO). Soils recently used in agriculture, which are now included in the infrastructure of the cities of Salekhard, Labytnangi, Kharsaim, and Aksarka in the form of various parks and public gardens were studied. Morphological, physico-chemical, and agrochemical studies of selected soils were conducted. Significant differences in fertility parameters between urbanized abandoned agricultural soils and mature soils of the region were revealed. The quality of soil resources was also evaluated in terms of their ecotoxicology condition, namely, the concentrations of trace metals in soils were determined and their current condition was assessed using calculations of various individual and complex soil quality indices.
Screening of Pioneer Metallophyte Plant Species with Phytoremediation Potential at a Severely Contaminated Hg and As Mining Site
Authors: Matanzas Nora , Afif Elías , Díaz Tomás Emilio , Gallego José Luis R.
Published: July 2021

Phytoremediation of mine soils contaminated by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) requires the use of tolerant plants given the specific conditions of toxicity in the altered soil ecosystems. In this sense, a survey was conducted in an ancient Hg-mining area named “El Terronal” (Asturias, Spain) which is severely affected by PTE contamination (As, Hg, Pb) to obtain an inventory of the spontaneous natural vegetation. A detailed habitat classification was performed and a specific index of coverage was applied after a one-year quadrat study in various sampling stations; seven species were finally selected (Agrostis tenuis, Betula celtiberica, Calluna vulgaris, Dactylis glomerata, Plantago lanceolata, Salix atrocinerea and Trifolium repens). A total of 21 samples (3 per plant) of the soil–plant system were collected and analyzed for the available and total concentrations of contaminants in soil and plants (roots and aerial parts). Most of the studied plant species were classified as non-accumulating plants, with particular exceptions as Calluna vulgaris for Pb and Dactylis glomerata for As. Overall, the results revealed interest for phytoremediation treatments, especially phytostabilization, as most of the plants studied were classified as excluder metallophytes.
Numerical Analysis for Heat Transfer Augmentation in a Circular Tube Heat Exchanger Using a Triangular Perforated Y-Shaped Insert
Authors: Pandey Lokesh , Singh Satyendra
Published: July 2021

The present investigation constitutes CFD analysis of the heat transmission phenomenon in a tube heat exchanger with a Y-shaped insert with triangular perforation. The analysis is accomplished by considering air as a working fluid with a Reynolds number ranging from 3000 to 21,000. The segment considered for analysis consists of a circular tube of 68 mm diameter and 1.5 m length. The geometrical parameter considered is the perforation index (0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%). The constant heat flux is provided at the tube wall and a pressure-based solver is used for the solution. The studies are performed for analyzing the effects of inserts on the heat transfer and friction factor in the circular tube heat exchanger which results in augmented heat transfer at a higher perforation index (PI) and lower friction factor. The investigation results show that the highest heat transfer is 5.84 times over a simple plain tube and the maximum thermal performance factor (TPF) is 3.25 at PI = 30%, Re = 3000.
Engineering Concanavalin B to Release Bioactive Peptides against Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Maldonado-Torres Diego Armando , Jara-Romero G. Janet , Rosas-Cárdenas Flor de Fátima , Fernández-Velasco D. Alejandro , Luna-Suárez Silvia
Published: July 2021

Metabolic syndrome is a severe public health issue characterized by multiple metabolic disturbances. Current treatments prescribe a particular drug for each of them, producing multiple side effects. As a first step towards a more integral approach, we applied our recently described methodology to design single proteins, based in the Concanavalin B scaffold (1CNV), that contain several bioactive peptides (BPs), including antioxidant and lipid-lowering activities as well as inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) and the angiotensin converting enzyme. Modified Concanavalin (CNV44), the designed protein that showed the best in silico properties, was expressed in high yields in E. coli and purified to homogeneity. After in vitro digestion with gastrointestinal enzymes, all the biological activities tested where higher in CNV44 when compared to the non-modified protein 1CNV, or to other previous reports. The results presented here represent the first in vitro evidence of a modified protein with the potential to treat metabolic syndrome and open the venue for the design of proteins to treat other non-communicable diseases.
Simultaneous Determination of Furanic Compounds and Acrylamide in Insect-Based Foods by HPLC-QqQ-MS/MS Employing a Functionalized Mesostructured Silica as Sorbent in Solid-Phase Extraction
Authors: González-Gómez Lorena , Morante-Zarcero Sonia , Pérez-Quintanilla Damián , Sierra Isabel
Published: July 2021

Insect-based products are novel foods (NF) that merit careful study. For this reason, in this work a method has been developed for the simultaneous analysis of four food processing contaminants (FPC), acrylamide (AA), 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, (HMF), 5-methylfurfural (MF) and furfural (F), in insect-based products (bars, crackers and flours) by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC-QqQ-MS/MS). The method consisted of a solid-liquid extraction (SLE) with acidified water, followed by solid-phase extraction (SPE), using 100 mg of a sorbent based on mesostructured silica with a large pore functionalized with amino groups (SBA-15-LP-NH2). The analytical method was properly optimized and validated in a representative bar sample of pineapple & coconut with cricket flour (Ins-B-Pine-Coco) showing good accuracy, with recoveries ranging from 70–101% for the four analytes and adequate precision (RSD < 9%). Good linearity (R2 ≥ 0.995) and low method quantification limits for AA (between 1.3–1.4 µg/g), F (between 7.9–8.8 µg/g), MF (between 3.1–6.5 µg/g) and HMF (between 1.5–3.3 µg/g) were also obtained in all samples studied. The proposed method was successfully applied in eleven insect-based foods. Results revealed that insect-based bars can be a good alternative to traditional cereal bars to reduce dietary exposure to HMF; but, in order to reduce the exposure to AA, alternative formulations must be evaluated in the design of innovative insect-based crackers.
Molecular, Structural, and Rheological Characterization of Camel Skin Gelatin Extracted Using Different Pretreatment Conditions
Authors: Fawale Olumide , Abuibaid Ahlam , Hamed Fathalla , Kittiphattanabawon Phanat , Maqsood Sajid
Published: July 2021

Optimum conditions for high-quality gelatin recovery from camel skin and its molecular, structural, and rheological characterization were carried out in this study. Increased yield and gel strength were recorded, with an increase in camel skin pretreatment times of 6 to 42 h and 0.50 and 0.75 M-NaOH. Gelatin from skin pretreated with 0.75 and 0.5 M-NaOH for 42 h showed the highest yield (22.60%) and gel strength (365.5 g), respectively. Structural characterization by Fourier transformation infrared spectra, X-ray diffraction, and nuclear magnetic resonance indicated that all gelatins possessed major peaks in the amide region, and diffraction peaks around 22° were basically amorphous. The temperatures for gelling and melting ranged from 20.9 °C to 25.8 °C and 27.34 °C to 30.49 °C. Microstructure revealed loose network with more voids in gelatin from skin pretreated with 0.5 and 0.75 M-NaOH for 6 h, while a highly cross-linked network and less voids were observed in those pretreated with 0.75 M-NaOH for 24 h and 0.5 M-NaOH for 42 h. The results reveal that great potential exists in producing halal gelatin with excellent quality and functionality from camel skin.
Black Soybean and Adzuki Bean Extracts Lower Blood Pressure by Modulating the Renin-Angiotensin System in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Jeong Eun-Woo , Park Se-Yeong , Yang Yun-Sun , Baek You-Jin , Yun Da-Min , Kim Hyun-Joo , Go Gwang-Woong , Lee Hyeon-Gyu
Published: July 2021

Hypertension, causing cardiovascular disease, stroke, and heart failure, has been a rising health issue worldwide. Black soybeans and adzuki beans have been widely consumed throughout history due to various bioactive components. We evaluated the antihypertensive effects of black soybean and adzuki bean ethanol extracts on blood pressure, renin-angiotensin system (RAS), and aortic lesion in spontaneously hypertensive rats. A group of WKY (normal) and six groups of spontaneously hypertensive rats were administered with saline (SHR), 50 mg/kg of captopril (CAP), 250 and 500 mg/kg of black soybean extracts (BE250 and BE500), 250 and 500 mg/kg of adzuki bean extracts (AE250 and AE500) for eight weeks. BE250, BE500, AE250, and AE500 significantly (p < 0.05) reduced relative liver weight, AST, ALT, triglyceride, total cholesterol, systolic blood pressure, and angiotensin-converting-enzyme level compared to SHR. The angiotensin II level in AE500 and renin mRNA expression in BE500 and AE500 were significantly (p < 0.05) decreased compared to SHR. The lumen diameter was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced in only CAP. Furthermore, systolic and diastolic blood pressure and angiotensin II level in AE500 were lower than those of BE500. These results suggest that AE exhibit more antihypertensive potential than BE in spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Relationship between Oral Bacterial Count and Postoperative Complications among Patients with Cardiovascular Disease Treated by Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Osako Rie , Matsuda Yuhei , Itohara Chieko , Sukegawa-Takahashi Yuka , Sukegawa Shintaro , Okuma Satoe , Furuki Yoshihiko , Kanno Takahiro
Published: July 2021

In this retrospective observational study, we evaluated the relationship between perioperative oral bacterial counts and postoperative complications in cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients. From April 2012 to December 2018, all patients scheduled for surgery received perioperative oral management (POM) by oral specialists at a single center. Tongue dorsum bacterial counts were measured on the pre-hospitalization day, preoperatively, and postoperatively. Background data were collected retrospectively. Among the 470 consecutive patients, the postoperative complication incidence rate was 10.4% (pericardial fluid storage, n = 21; postoperative pneumonia, n = 13; surgical site infection, n = 9; mediastinitis, n = 2; and seroma, postoperative infective endocarditis, lung torsion, and pericardial effusion, n = 1 each). Oral bacterial counts were significantly higher in the pre-hospitalization than in the pre- and postoperative samples (p < 0.05). Sex, cerebrovascular disease, and operation time differed significantly between complications and no-complications groups (p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis with propensity score adjustment showed a significant association between postoperative oral bacterial count and postoperative complications (odds ratio 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.60; p = 0.05). Since the development of cardiovascular complications is a multifactorial process, the present study cannot show that POM reduces complications but indicates POM may prevent complications in CVD patients.