bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Evaluation of an Office Building According to LEED Certificate Lighting Criteria
Authors: Kucukkaya Idil Bakir , Alakavuk Ebru
Published: August 2020

The progress in industrial and technological areas, which started with the Industrial Revolution, has deteriorated the ecological balance and depleted the natural resources. Sustainability, which initially seemed as a solution within this concept, became an important part of Interior Architecture as in disciplines related to design. The lighting systems of the offices that are the secondary living areas should be evaluated in terms of sustainability as well.
In this paper, the energy savings and loss of the artificial office lighting systems has been calculated according to the ASHRAE/IES standard 90.1Ц20078?1 which are included in the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certificateТs lighting criteria [1]. The wattage of the artificial lighting systems has been calculated while the systems were in use. The results of these measurements have been compared with lighting wattage and thus the lighting energy savings and loss have been configured. The office has been comparatively analyzed according to LEED criteria.
Development of Express-methods for Design of Ski Slopes Illumination Systems
Authors: Alexandrov Sergei A.
Published: August 2020

The article is devoted to the creation of methods of accelerated lighting design of ski slopes for competitions with a television broadcast.
Influence of Climatic Conditions of Russia and the Countries of the Near East on Lighting Equipment
Authors: Ermakov Dmitry N. , Kazenkov Oleg Yu. , Khusnulin Ravil K.
Published: August 2020

The digital economy assumes an increase in the role and importance of the lighting engineering science in the industrial countries. Nowadays, the development of a country is largely characterized by its “light supply” with minimum energy consumption. In modern Western Europe, for example, it is impossible to separate climate protection policies from energy policy. In the countries of the Middle East, there is a rapid development of the construction industry as many residential and public buildings are being built, and energy consumption issues are acute. The article studies the influence of the light climate of Russia and the countries of the Middle East on the development of construction lighting equipment, which enables to optimize energy consumption, create comfortable working and leisure conditions.
The Relevance of Energy Service Contracts in the Budget Sphere
Authors: Boos George V. , Matveeva Elena Yu.
Published: August 2020

The problematic aspects related to the implementation of energy saving policy in the budget sphere are examined in the article. The factors hindering the mass and effective implementation of energysaving measures are highlighted in the article. Among these factors, there is the technical complexity of energysaving projects, the presence of innovative and investment risks, problems with the financial provision of costs in the face of increasing debt burden in most public budgets. The article concludes that in these circumstances only the energy service contract is a tool that allows implementing energy­saving measures without the first participation of budgetary funds in financing and allows transferring the risks of making technically inefficient decisions directly to the investor. In the article, the authors substantiate the importance of the institutional development of energy services directly in the public sector and analyze the measures of the comprehensive plan to improve the energy efficiency of the economy of the Russian Federation aimed at expanding the scope of energy service contracts in the public sector.
Selection of the Area of Window Openings of Residential Buildings in Conditions of Monsoon Climate of the Far East of the Russian Federation and Northern Areas of China
Authors: Solovyov Aleksei K. , Guofu Bi
Published: August 2020

The term “window” in architecture usually stands for an opening in a wall or roof for penetration of natural light, sunrays and fresh air in premises. Recently, the requirement of contact with environment is added to this condition. It is especially relevant for residential buildings where rooms are considered residential if they have windows. The energy consumption of a building depends on sizes, form and location of windows. In winter, windows cause huge heat losses, in summer, on the other hand, large heat enters a building via the windows and is required to be removed by means of air conditioning. Moreover, windows are used for penetration of natural light in premises, which assists in saving of large amounts of power for artificial illumination. This article discusses partial solving the problem of the energy efficiency of residential buildings by determining the most efficient area of windows in terms of energy spending for compensation of heat losses via windows in winter, elimination of heat penetration through them in summer and energy losses for artificial lighting throughout the year. The analysis of the results of calculation of power consumption for residential premises in conditions of monsoon climate of the Russian Far East and Northern areas of China (PRC) is provided.
Testing and Analysis of Characteristics of Low-Pressure Mercury and Amalgam Bactericidal UV Lamps by Various Manufacturers
Authors: Allash Michael E. , Vasilyak Leonid M. , Eliseev Nikolay P. , Popov Oleg A. , Sokolov Dmitry V.
Published: August 2020

The samples testing of bactericidal high-pressure UV lamps presented on the Russian Market showed their insufficient quality. These lamps were designed and manufactured based on the technical assignment of specific manufacturers or are copies of UV lamps by well-known brands but manufactured using own technology. Moreover, these devices do not comply with special aspects of UV irradiating equipment for water sterilisation such lamps may be used with by consumers.
Colour Preference Depends on Colour Temperature, Illuminance Level and Object Saturation - a New Metric
Authors: Vinh Quang Trinh , Bodrogi Peter , Khanh Tran Quoc , Anh Tran Thuy
Published: August 2020

A new metric (Rp,2019) is defined as a light source to predict the subjective colour preference impression of an interior scene containing coloured objects illuminated by this light source. The metric is based on the CIE2017 Colour Fidelity Index and the TM-30-15 Colour Vector Graphic. In addition to its dependence on object saturation level, the metric also includes the dependence on correlated colour temperature and on the characteristic illuminance level at the plane on which the coloured objects are arranged. The scale of the metric is labeled with criterion values corresponding to “good” or “very good” colour preference. The aim is to help lighting designers and engineers to determine the illuminance level, colour temperature and object saturation necessary to achieve “good” or “very good” colour preference.
Navigation System Based on VLC Technology for Staff of Hermitage Museum
Authors: Gareev Emil Z. , Sorokin Yuri B. , Antropov Igor M. , Kurako Anton E. , Puchkovskaya Antonina A. , Bougrov Vladislav E.
Published: August 2020

We developed a navigation system based on wireless visible light data transmission channel and an algorithm for the decoding on smartphones. The work aims to create an interactive navigation system inside the Hermitage Museum for museum staff. The system was designed for using a modern smart-phone device as a receiver, a conventional LED illuminator as transmitter and a RGB diode as a navigation point in each room of the museum. We developed a modulator for data transmission, an algorithm for receiving and processing information using a stock camera of an iOS-based smart-phone, organized a point-to-point network between the LED illuminators and the server with a full back-end and front-end communication. The system allows transmitting data with rates up to 2 kbps on distance up to 1 meter.
Estrategias de aprendizaje y la comprensión de textos escritos del idioma inglés
Authors: Prado-Huarcaya Diana L. , Escalante-López María E.
Published: August 2020

El estudio responde a la tentativa de establecer el grado de relación que existe entre las estrategias de aprendizaje con la comprensión de textos escritos del idioma inglés en los estudiantes del Centro de Idiomas de la Universidad Privada de Lima-Norte-2019. La presente investigación es no experimental, descriptiva y de diseño correlacional.  Se realizó con una muestra de 20 estudiantes del Centro de Idiomas. Para la recolección de datos, se aplicó un cuestionario test por variable, que fueron previamente validados de acuerdo con los objetivos del estudio. Los resultados indican la existencia de una correlación significativa entre estrategias de aprendizaje y comprensión lectora, siendo el valor de significancia obtenido r=0,796, (p-valor <0.05). Llegando a la conclusión que existe una relación significativa entre las variables estrategias de aprendizaje y comprensión de textos escritos del idioma inglés.
Improvement of Wear Resistance in Laser Shock-Peened Copper Contacts
Authors: Jung Donghyuck , Park Changkyoo , Chun Eun-Joon , Kim Yoon-Jun
Published: August 2020

This study investigated the influence of laser shock peening without coating (LSPw/oC) on the degradation of copper electrical contacts. A theoretical calculation of the plastic-affected depth (PAD) induced by LSPw/oC was performed, based on the laser-induced plasma pressure along with the Hugoniot elastic limit of our LSPw/oC experimental conditions. The theoretical PAD was obtained approximately 650 µm from the surface for the LSPw/oC at the laser energy density of 5.3 GW/cm2. Various characterization methods such as the Vicker’s hardness test, residual stress test, and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) mapping indicated the PAD may play a significant role in laser induced effective depth for LSPw/oC. At a laser energy density of 5.3 GW/cm2, the laser shock-peened copper showed approximately double the surface hardness as compared to the pure copper. This was attributed to grain refinement, which was confirmed by measuring average grain sizes, and by observing mechanical twin structures from the EBSD analysis. Additionally, a compressive residual stress was induced down to the PAD but gradually switched to a tensile residual stress below PAD. The surface hardening effect conferred by LSPw/oC to the pure copper surface resulted in excellent wear resistance, i.e., a low coefficient of friction and wear loss. As a result, the contact exhibited lower electrical resistance following the fretting friction test compared to pure copper; this would result in a significant delay in electrical contact failure.
Extended Energy Conservation Law in Alloys: the Absence of Energy Non-Equilibrium
Authors: Choi Myung Sik , Na Han Gil , Jin Changhyun , Lee Kyu Hyoung
Published: August 2020

Assuming that many of the materials produced in a non-equilibrium state remain unchanged, an extended space–energy conservation law was proposed based on the existing energy conservation law. In the present study, by analyzing the well developed equilibrium binary phase diagram of iron (Fe) – carbon (C), we show that energy non-equilibrium microstructures can appear as a part of the equilibrium between the space energy and the mass energy. The correlation between these two energies is objectively and logically explained via (1) one-to-one correspondences between the equilibrium and non-equilibrium phases based on the binary Fe–C phase diagram and (2) the heat-treated Fe–C phases with the spatial energy represented by temperature. Additionally, we found that the morphological and microstructural changes in non-equilibrium states could be consistently explained using the extended energy law as a major premise. This suggests that material factors such as size, distribution, and the shape of materials, which appear to have no energy transfer, are all formed to balance the energy equilibrium with the spatial energy surrounding the materials. Thus, an extended energy conservation law, which can control mass through space or vice versa, can provide a comprehensive logical framework for analyzing various unsolved physicochemical phenomena.
Knowledge and Access to Reproductive Health Rights among Adolescents in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Olomola Omolade , Ajagunna Folakemi
Published: August 2020

Growing up is an inevitable process characterised by different stages. Adolescence is a stage in the development of an individual and is the stage before adulthood. It is a period when a child experiences a sense of identity and uniqueness. The importance of this stage cannot be overemphasised because of its attendant challenges. Adolescents constitute about 1.8 billion of the world population. Of this, about 721 million are between the ages of 12 and 17 and 850 million are aged between 18 and 24. In Nigeria, there are about 30 million adolescents. Thus, their knowledge and access to reproductive health rights at this sensitive period is germane for a healthy nation. Pre-marital sex, sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancies and abortion occur mostly at this stage because a lot of experimenting goes on by the young adolescents. This in turn would have adverse consequences on the reproductive health and status of the adolescents. This article therefore examines the level of awareness of reproductive health rights and access to justice for adolescents being a major part of the growing population. In doing this, the researchers employ the use of in-depth interviews to elicit information from the affected group in order to determine their knowledge and access. The findings reveal that much of what is known is gathered from unreliable sources. Street Law is a practical approach to teaching law to ordinary audiences via interactive teaching methods. This approach could create an avenue to educate adolescents about the availability of their rights and health services to prevent unwanted pregnancies and challenges. This article therefore recommends that the teaching of reproductive health rights should be included in the curriculum of secondary schools to impact knowledge in order to create access. Community sensitisation campaigns through Street Law can also be employed to increase the level of awareness of reproductive health rights.
What Weight (If Any) Should Be Attached to Children's Wishes and Views in Child Relocation Disputes? Lessons from Canada
Authors: Marumoagae Motseotsile Clement
Published: August 2020

This article discusses the participation of children in child relocation disputes in South Africa and Canada. It argues that there is a need for South African courts to recognise the agency of children who are at such a stage of development as to enable them to participate in family law disputes which affect them. It argues that South Africa can learn from Canada which utilises judicial interviews and Voice of the Child Reports to enable children to participate in parental disputes that involve them. This will assist courts to better understand children's views which they should attach adequate weight to without making such views decisive. This article further argues that when reaching their decisions on proposed relocations, courts should indicate that they considered children's views and that they have attached some weight to such views. This article also proposes amendments to the South African Children's Act which, it is hoped, will lead to the effective participation of children in matters that affect them.
Node Placement Optimization of Wireless Sensor Networks Using Multi-Objective Adaptive Degressive Ary Number Encoded Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yijie , Liu Mandan
Published: August 2020

The wireless sensor network (WSN) has the advantages of low cost, high monitoring accuracy, good fault tolerance, remote monitoring and convenient maintenance. It has been widely used in various fields. In the WSN, the placement of node sensors has a great impact on its coverage, energy consumption and some other factors. In order to improve the convergence speed of a node placement optimization algorithm, the encoding method is improved in this paper. The degressive ary number encoding is further extended to a multi-objective optimization problem. Furthermore, the adaptive changing rule of ary number is proposed by analyzing the experimental results of the N-ary number encoded algorithm. Then a multi-objective optimization algorithm adopting the adaptive degressive ary number encoding method has been used in optimizing the node placement in WSN. The experiments show that the proposed adaptive degressive ary number encoded algorithm can improve both the optimization effect and search efficiency when solving the node placement problem.
A Comparison of Isolated and Ducted Fixed-Pitch Propellers under Non-Axial Inflow Conditions
Authors: Cerny Michael , Breitsamter Christian
Published: August 2020

A strong interest in highly-efficient, small-scale propeller configurations can be recognized, especially due to the currently growing number of and usage possibilities for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Although a variety of different propulsion concepts already exist on the market or are discussed in the literature, there is still a demand for a systematic investigation to compare such configurations, in particular, small-scale propellers with a fixed pitch, which are analyzed in this work. Therefore, different configurations of small-scale propellers with a fixed pitch are analyzed in this paper. They were operated as isolated single propellers and as ducted propellers in a cylindrical wing. Furthermore, due to their flight envelope, UAVs are likely to operate at highly inclined inflow conditions and even under reverse inflow. These non-axial inflow conditions have a major influence on the flow field around a propeller. In order to investigate this influence, all analyses were performed at a range of inflow angles in relation to the propeller axis from αdisc=0° to 180°.
Evaluation of Tuber Yield and Marketable Quality of Newly Developed Thirty-Two Potato Varieties Grown in Three Different Ecological Zones in South Korea
Authors: Islam Jahirul , Choi Sun Phil , Azad Obyedul Kalam , Kim Ji Woong , Lim Young-Seok
Published: August 2020

The yield and quality of potato in South Korea vary with different environmental conditions and all induced varieties do not perform well in every location. There are many suggested reasons for this problem; they include soil topography, temperature, rainfall pattern, etc. This study focused on finding certain potato genotypes based on high yield and quality (marketable rate, uniformity, less physiological disorders, resistance to diseases), and suitability for processing in three agro-ecological regions in South Korea. Thirty-two potato genotypes were cultivated in three regions i.e., Chuncheon (low altitude), Yang-gu (middle altitude), and Pyeong-chang (alpine), along with three major cultivars (Atlantic, Shepody, and Superior) as control. All the potato lines were evaluated for three consecutive years. The results showed that a higher tuber yield was obtained from the genotypes Gangwon Valley, Valley 11, Valley 13, and Valley 92 in Chuncheon; while Valley 13, Valley 43, and Valley 92 in Yang-gu; and Valley 43, Gui Valley and Valley 92 in Pyeong-chang region with a high marketable quality, and lower infection rates and physiological disorders. The results also showed that higher chip lightness was manifested by the genotypes Juice Valley, Gangwon Valley, Rose Valley, Valley 43, and Valley 91 among the high yielding genotypes. Besides, Pyeong-chang (alpine), a high-altitude region with longer maturation time was found more suitable for potato cultivation, especially for higher tuber yield and higher quality products for potato chip processing.
Fecal Sample Collection Method for Wild Birds-Associated Microbiome Research: Perspectives for Wildlife Studies
Authors: Borrelli Luca , Minichino Adriano , Pace Antonino , Dipineto Ludovico , Fioretti Alessandro
Published: August 2020

Gut microbial communities play important roles in host health, modulating development, nutrient acquisition, immune and metabolic regulation, behavior and diseases. Wildlife microbiome studies and host–microbe interaction and exploration might be an important goal for evolutionary biology, conservation, and ecology. Therefore, collection and sampling methods must be considered before choosing a microbiome-based research plan. Since the fecal microbial community reflects the true gut community better than that of cloacal swab samples and only few nondestructive methods have been described, we propose an easy-to-build box for a noninvasive fecal collection method. The main components of the collection box include a plastic storage box, a plastic tray, a vinyl-coated hardware cloth, and a 10% bleach solution. In the plastic box, the tray is positioned under the raised grate, where the bird is placed, to reduce the risk of contamination of the fecal samples. This procedure could simplify handling and processing phases in wild birds or other animals. It might represent a cheap and useful method for research studies, wildlife rescue center activities, veterinary practices, and conservation practitioners.
Changes in the Physicochemical Parameters of Yoghurts with Added Whey Protein in Relation to the Starter Bacteria Strains and Storage Time
Authors: Brodziak Aneta , Król Jolanta , Barłowska Joanna , Teter Anna , Florek Mariusz
Published: August 2020

The stability of the physicochemical characteristics of yoghurts during refrigerated storage is important for industry and the consumer. In this study we produced plain yoghurts with the addition of health-promoting whey protein concentrate (WPC), using two different starter cultures based on Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus. Physicochemical changes (acidity, nutritional value, water activity, water-holding capacity, texture, and colour, including whitening and yellowing indices) as well as sensory changes occurring during 28-day refrigerated storage were determined. Starter cultures were found to significantly (p ≤ 0.05 and p ≤ 0.01) influence the water-holding capacity, firmness, consistency, cohesive strength and colour parameters of the curd. Use of whey protein concentrate affected both the physicochemical and sensory quality of the yoghurts. The additive had a significant effect on potential acidity, inhibiting the increase in lactic acid in the yoghurts during storage, and also reduced syneresis. However, it decreased the lightness of curd and negatively affected its sensory characteristics, primarily flavour. Moreover, nearly all parameters changed significantly with the passage of storage time (in most cases negatively). The exceptions were total protein and fat content. The changes, however, were not severe and remained at a level acceptable to tasters. Addition of 1% or 2% whey protein to yoghurt may be a good solution that can be routinely applied in the dairy industry to offer consumers a new functional product. A comprehensive assessment of the physicochemical and sensory changes occurring during refrigerated storage of yoghurts manufactured with the addition of WPC and using different cultures is crucial for modelling such a product.
Is the Host Viral Response and the Immunogenicity of Vaccines Altered in Pregnancy?
Authors: Saeed Zainab , Greer Orene , Shah Nishel Mohan
Published: August 2020

The intricacy of the maternal immune system arises from its ability to prevent a maternal immune response against a semi-allogenic fetus, while protecting the mother against harmful pathogens. However, these immunological adaptations may also make pregnant women vulnerable to developing adverse complications from respiratory viral infections. While the influenza and SARS pandemics support this theory, there is less certainty regarding the clinical impact of SARS-CoV-2 in pregnancy. In the current COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine development is key to public preventative strategies. Whilst most viral vaccines are able to induce a seroprotective antibody response, in some high-risk individuals this may not correlate with clinical protection. Some studies have shown that factors such as age, gender, and chronic illnesses can reduce their effectiveness and in this review, we discuss how pregnancy may affect the efficacy and immunogenicity of vaccines. We present literature to support the hypothesis that pregnant women are more susceptible to respiratory viral infections and may not respond to vaccines as effectively. In particular, we focus on the clinical implications of important respiratory viral infections such as influenza during pregnancy, and the pregnancy induced alterations in important leukocytes such as TFH, cTFH and B cells, which play an important role in generating long-lasting and high-affinity antibodies. Finally, we review how this may affect the efficacy of vaccines against influenza in pregnancy and highlight areas that require further research.
Circuits Regulating Superoxide and Nitric Oxide Production and Neutralization in Different Cell Types: Expression of Participating Genes and Changes Induced by Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Bil Patryk , Ciesielska Sylwia , Jaksik Roman , Rzeszowska-Wolny Joanna
Published: August 2020

Superoxide radicals, together with nitric oxide (NO), determine the oxidative status of cells, which use different pathways to control their levels in response to stressing conditions. Using gene expression data available in the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia and microarray results, we compared the expression of genes engaged in pathways controlling reactive oxygen species and NO production, neutralization, and changes in response to the exposure of cells to ionizing radiation (IR) in human cancer cell lines originating from different tissues. The expression of NADPH oxidases and NO synthases that participate in superoxide radical and NO production was low in all cell types. Superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, thioredoxin, and peroxiredoxins participating in radical neutralization showed high expression in nearly all cell types. Some enzymes that may indirectly influence superoxide radical and NO levels showed tissue-specific expression and differences in response to IR. Using fluorescence microscopy and specific dyes, we followed the levels and the distribution of superoxide and NO radicals in living melanoma cells at different times after exposure to IR. Directly after irradiation, we observed an increase of superoxide radicals and NO coexistent in the same subcellular locations, suggesting a switch of NO synthase to the production of superoxide radicals.
Lycopene as a Natural Antioxidant Used to Prevent Human Health Disorders
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Ghorat Fereshteh , Ul-Haq Iahtisham , Ur-Rehman Habib , Aslam Farhan , Heydari Mojtaba , Shariati Mohammad Ali , Okuskhanova Eleonora , Yessimbekov Zhanibek , Thiruvengadam Muthu , Hashempur Mohammad Hashem , Rebezov Maksim
Published: August 2020

Lycopene, belonging to the carotenoids, is a tetraterpene compound abundantly found in tomato and tomato-based products. It is fundamentally recognized as a potent antioxidant and a non-pro-vitamin A carotenoid. Lycopene has been found to be efficient in ameliorating cancer insurgences, diabetes mellitus, cardiac complications, oxidative stress-mediated malfunctions, inflammatory events, skin and bone diseases, hepatic, neural and reproductive disorders. This review summarizes information regarding its sources and uses amongst different societies, its biochemistry aspects, and the potential utilization of lycopene and possible mechanisms involved in alleviating the abovementioned disorders. Furthermore, future directions with the possible use of this nutraceutical against lifestyle-related disorders are emphasized. Its protective effects against recommended doses of toxic agents and toxicity and safety are also discussed.
High-Frame-Rate 3-D Vector Flow Imaging in the Frequency Domain
Authors: Rossi Stefano , Ramalli Alessandro , Fool Fabian , Tortoli Piero
Published: August 2020

Ultrasound vector Doppler techniques for three-dimensional (3-D) blood velocity measurements are currently limited by low temporal resolution and high computational cost. In this paper, an efficient 3-D high-frame-rate vector Doppler method, which estimates the displacements in the frequency domain, is proposed. The novel method extends to 3-D an approach so far proposed for two-dimensional (2-D) velocity measurements by approximating the (x, y, z) displacement of a small volume through the displacements estimated for the 2-D regions parallel to the y and x directions, respectively. The new method was tested by simulation and experiments for a 3.7 MHz, 256-element, 2-D piezoelectric sparse spiral array. Simulations were also performed for an equivalent 7 MHz Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducer spiral array. The results indicate performance (bias ± standard deviation: 6.5 ± 8.0) comparable to the performance obtained by using a linear array for 2-D velocity measurements. These results are particularly encouraging when considering that sparse arrays were used, which involve a lower signal-to-noise ratio and worse beam characteristics with respect to full 2-D arrays.
A Constant Round Write-Only ORAM
Authors: Zhao Bo , Chen Zhihong , Lin Hai , Ji XiangMin
Published: August 2020

The write-only oblivious RAM (ORAM) is proposed to efficiently protect the privacy of applications such as cloud storage synchronization and encrypted hidden volumes. For N blocks with size B = Ω(log2N), the most efficient write-only ORAM, DetWoORAM, achieves O(B) communication complexity with O(logN) rounds per logical write. We propose a two-level write-only ORAM and achieve O(B) communication complexity with O(1) rounds. Similar to the traditional bucket-based ORAM schemes, we set a rate for the write operation to further reduce the communication complexity. The top-level stores data blocks in a flat array and the write pattern is protected by writing blocks uniformly at random. The second level employs a binary tree to store the position map of data blocks. To avoid recursive storage, a static position map for blocks in the second level is used. Both the analysis and experiments show that, besides the achieved low communication complexity and rounds, the stash sizes in the top level and the second level are bounded to O(B) and ω(B), respectively.
Experimental Evaluation on the Effect of Electrode Configuration in Electrostatic Actuators for Increasing Vibrotactile Feedback Intensity
Authors: Mason Taylor , Koo Jeong-Hoi , Kim Young-Min , Yang Tae-Heon
Published: August 2020

Vibrotactile feedback is a key feature of many modern touch displays, which greatly enhances user experiences when interacting with an onscreen interface. Despite its popularity in small touch screen devices, this haptic feature is absent in most large displays due to a lack of suitable actuators for such applications. Thus, a growing need exists for haptic actuators capable of producing sufficient vibrations in large touch displays. This study proposes and evaluates a novel electrostatic resonant actuator (ERA) with a moving mass and dual electrodes for increased vibration feedback intensity. The dual-electrode ERA was fabricated along with a comparable single-electrode ERA to investigate the effect of the electrode configuration on the maximum vibration intensity. When measured directly on the mass, the maximum vibration intensity of the dual-electrode actuator increased by 73% compared to the single-electrode actuator. When mounted and measured on a mock panel, the maximum vibration intensity of the dual-electrode actuator increased by nearly 65% compared to a similarly mounted single-electrode actuator. These results show that the dual-electrode configuration can significantly increase the vibration intensity when compared to the conventional ERA. This demonstrates a promising potential for the use of the proposed actuator for generating vibrotactile feedback in large touch displays.
Bioactive Healing Abutment as a Potential Tool for the Treatment of Peri-Implant Disease—In Vitro Study
Authors: Iwańczyk Bartłomiej , Wychowański Piotr , Minkiewicz-Zochniak Anna , Strom Kamila , Jarzynka Sylwia , Olędzka Gabriela
Published: August 2020

The common use of dental implants for dental reconstruction poses new treatment challenges for physicians, peri-implantitis being a particularly difficult one. Micro-organisms, including drug-resistant Staphylococcus spp. strains, play a crucial role in the etiology of peri-implantitis. In this paper, the authors assess the efficacy of a bioactive healing abutment (BHA) of their own design for the local release of antibiotics as a potential tool for the treatment of peri-implant disease. BHA filled with a collagen material, combined with the antibiotics clindamycin and tetracycline, was tested in vitro by disk diffusion assay. Antibacterial activity was observed for the chosen Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis bacterial strains. In addition, the impact of titanium discs (which were used to make the BHA) was monitored. The results show that the zone diameter breakpoints for BHA are higher than those of standard absorbent paper discs in both tested strains for both tested antibiotics. This work demonstrates that the proposed BHA can serve as an effective and precise drug carrier. The release of antibiotics from the described implant device is easy to control and allows for an effective local antibacterial in vitro treatment. The procedure is inexpensive, easy to perform, and repeatable.
The Influence of Tilt Angle on the Aerodynamic Performance of a Wind Turbine
Authors: Wang Qiang , Liao Kangping , Ma Qingwei
Published: August 2020

Aerodynamic performance of a wind turbine at different tilt angles was studied based on the commercial CFD software STAR-CCM+. Tilt angles of 0, 4, 8 and 12° were investigated based on uniform wind speed and wind shear. In CFD simulation, the rotating motion of blade was based on a sliding mesh. The thrust, power, lift and drag of the blade section airfoil at different tilt angles have been widely investigated herein. Meanwhile, the tip vortices and velocity profiles at different tilt angles were physically observed. In addition, the influence of the wind shear exponents and the expected value of turbulence intensity on the aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine is also further discussed. The results indicate that the change in tilt angle changes the angle of attack of the airfoil section of the wind turbine blade, which affects the thrust and power of the wind turbine. The aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine is better when the tilt angle is about 4°. Wind shear will cause the thrust and power of the wind turbine to decrease, and the effect of the wind shear exponents on the aerodynamic performance of the wind turbine is significantly greater than the expected effect of the turbulence intensity. The main purpose of the paper was to study the effect of tilt angle on the aerodynamic performance of a fixed wind turbine.
Parametric and Statistical Study of the Wing Geometry of 75 Species of Odonata
Authors: Chitsaz Nasim , Marian Romeo , Chitsaz Amirmasoud , Chahl Javaan S.
Published: August 2020

The flight performance and maneuverability of Odonata depends on wing shape and aero-structural characteristics, including airfoil shape, wingspan, and chord. Despite the superficial similarity between Odonata planforms, the frequency with which they are portrayed artistically, and the research interest in their aerodynamics, those features that are stable and those that are labile between species have not been identified. Studies have been done on 2D aerodynamics over corrugated wings; however, there is limited comparative quantified data on the planforms of Odonata wings. This study was undertaken to explore the scale relationships between the geometrical parameters of photogrammetrically reconstructed wings of 75 Odonata species, 66 from Epiprocta, and 9 from Zygoptera. The wing semi-spans captured in the database range from 24 to 85 mm. By carrying out an extensive statistical analysis of data, we show that the geometrical parameters for the suborder Epiprocta (dragonflies) can be classified into scale-dependent and independent parameters using regression analysis. A number of close correlations were found between the wingspan and the size of other structures. We found that amongst the variables considered, the largest independent variations against the forewing span were found in the chord of the hindwing, and that hindwing properties were not reliably predicted by the Odonata family. We suggest that this indicates continuous evolutionary pressure on this structure.
Characterization of Atmospheric PM2.5 Inorganic Aerosols Using the Semi-Continuous PPWD-PILS-IC System and the ISORROPIA-II
Authors: Le Thi-Cuc , Wang Yun-Chin , Pui David Y. H. , Tsai Chuen-Jinn
Published: August 2020

A semi-continuous monitoring system, a parallel plate wet denuder and particle into liquid sampler coupled with ion chromatography (PPWD-PILS-IC), was used to measure the hourly precursor gases and water-soluble inorganic ions in ambient particles smaller than 2.5 µm in diameter (PM2.5) for investigating the thermodynamic equilibrium of aerosols using the ISORROPIA-II thermodynamic equilibrium model. The 24-h average PPWD-PILS-IC data showed very good agreement with the daily data of the manual 5 L/min porous-metal denuder sampler with R2 ranging from 0.88 to 0.98 for inorganic ions (NH4+, Na+, K+, NO3−, SO42−, and Cl−) and 0.89 to 0.98 for precursor gases (NH3, HNO3, HONO, and SO2) and slopes ranging from 0.94 to 1.17 for ions and 0.87 to 0.95 for gases, respectively. In addition, the predicted ISORROPIA-II results were in good agreement with the hourly observed data of the PPWD-PILS-IC system for SO42− (R2 = 0.99 and slope = 1.0) and NH3 (R2 = 0.97 and slope = 1.02). The correlation of the predicted results and observed data was further improved for NH4+ and NO3− with the slope increasing from 0.90 to 0.96 and 0.95 to 1.09, respectively when the HNO2 and NO2− were included in the total nitrate concentration (TN = [NO3−] + [HNO3] + [HONO] + [NO2−]). The predicted HNO3 data were comparable to the sum of the observed [HNO3] and [HONO] indicating that HONO played an important role in the thermodynamic equilibrium of ambient PM2.5 aerosols but has not been considered in the ISORROPIA-II thermodynamic equilibrium model.
Novel Instruments for Percutaneous Biportal Endoscopic Spine Surgery for Full Decompression and Dural Management: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Hong Young-Ho , Kim Seung-Kook , Suh Dong-Won , Lee Su-Chan
Published: August 2020

Background: Post-laminectomy syndrome is a common cause of dissatisfaction after endoscopic interlaminar approach. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of our two newly designed instruments for laminotomy, a dural protector attached to the scope and a knot pusher for water-tight suturing of the incidental dural tears. Material and Methods: This was a multicenter evaluation. Efficacy was quantified as the pre-to-postoperative improvement in pain (visual analog scale), disability (Oswestry Disability Index), patient satisfaction (modified MacNab score), and length of hospital stay. Safety was quantified by the incidence and location of dural tears, rate of revision, and radiological outcomes. Outcomes were evaluated between the control (before instrument development) and experimental (after instrument development) groups. Results: There was a significant improvement in leg pain in the experimental group (p = 0.03), with greater patient satisfaction in the control group (p < 0.01). There was no incidence of dural tears in the area of the traversing and exiting nerve roots in the experimental group. Water-tightness of sutures was confirmed radiologically. Conclusion: The novel dural protector and the knot pusher for water-tight sutures improved the efficacy and safety of decompression and discectomy; however, a prolonged operative time was a drawback.
Germline Genetic Findings Which May Impact Therapeutic Decisions in Families with a Presumed Predisposition for Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Velázquez Carolina , K. De Leeneer , Esteban-Cardeñosa Eva M. , Avila Cobos Francisco , Lastra Enrique , Abella Luis E. , de la Cruz Virginia , Lobatón Carmen D. , Claes Kathleen B. , Durán Mercedes , Infante Mar
Published: August 2020

In this study, we aim to gain insight in the germline mutation spectrum of ATM, BARD1, BRIP1, ERCC4, PALB2, RAD51C and RAD51D in breast and ovarian cancer families from Spain. We have selected 180 index cases in whom a germline mutation in BRCA1 and BRCA2 was previously ruled out. The importance of disease-causing variants in these genes lies in the fact that they may have possible therapeutic implications according to clinical guidelines. All variants were assessed by combined annotation dependent depletion (CADD) for scoring their deleteriousness. In addition, we used the cancer genome interpreter to explore the implications of some variants in drug response. Finally, we compiled and evaluated the family history to assess whether carrying a pathogenic mutation was associated with age at diagnosis, tumour diversity of the pedigree and total number of cancer cases in the family. Eight unequivocal pathogenic mutations were found and another fourteen were prioritized as possible causal variants. Some of these molecular results could contribute to cancer diagnosis, treatment selection and prevention. We found a statistically significant association between tumour diversity in the family and carrying a variant with a high score predicting pathogenicity (p = 0.0003).
Diagnostic Performance of PET Imaging Using Different Radiopharmaceuticals in Prostate Cancer According to Published Meta-Analyses
Authors: Annunziata Salvatore , Pizzuto Daniele Antonio , Treglia Giorgio
Published: August 2020

A significant number of meta-analyses reporting data on the diagnostic performance of positron emission tomography (PET) in prostate cancer (PCa) is currently available in the literature. In particular, different PET radiopharmaceuticals were used for this purpose. The aim of this review is to summarize information retrieved by published meta-analyses on this topic. The first step included a systematic search of the literature (last search date: June 2020), screening two databases (PubMed/MEDLINE and Cochrane Library). This combination of key words was used: (A) “PET” OR “positron emission tomography” AND (B) “prostate” OR “prostatic” AND (C) meta-analysis. Only meta-analyses on Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) or Positron Emission Tomography/Magnetic Resonance (PET/MR) in PCa were selected. We have summarized the diagnostic performance of PET imaging in PCa, taking into account 39 meta-analyses published in the literature. Evidence-based data showed the good diagnostic performance of PET/CT with several radiopharmaceuticals, including prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted agents, radiolabeled choline, fluciclovine, and fluoride in restaging and staging settings. Less evidence-based data were available for PET/MR with different radiotracers. More prospective multicentric studies and cost-effectiveness analyses are warranted.
The Role of Steroid Hormone Receptors in Urothelial Tumorigenesis
Authors: Ide Hiroki , Miyamoto Hiroshi
Published: August 2020

Preclinical and/or clinical evidence has indicated a potential role of steroid hormone-mediated signaling pathways in the development of various neoplastic diseases, while precise mechanisms for the functions of specific receptors remain poorly understood. Specifically, in urothelial cancer where sex-related differences particularly in its incidence are noted, activation of sex hormone receptors, such as androgen receptor and estrogen receptor-β, has been associated with the induction of tumor development. More recently, glucocorticoid receptor has been implied to function as a suppressor of urothelial tumorigenesis. This article summarizes and discusses available data suggesting that steroid hormone receptors, including androgen receptor, estrogen receptor-α, estrogen receptor-β, glucocorticoid receptor, progesterone receptor and vitamin D receptor, as well as their related signals, contribute to modulating urothelial tumorigenesis.
MDM2-Dependent Rewiring of Metabolomic and Lipidomic Profiles in Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma Models
Authors: Patt Andrew , Demoret Bryce , Stets Colin , Bill Kate-Lynn , Smith Philip , Vijay Anitha , Patterson Andrew , Hays John , Hoang Mindy , Chen James L. , Mathé Ewy A.
Published: August 2020

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS) is an aggressive mesenchymal cancer marked by amplification of MDM2, an inhibitor of the tumor suppressor TP53. DDLPS patients with higher MDM2 amplification have lower chemotherapy sensitivity and worse outcome than patients with lower MDM2 amplification. We hypothesized that MDM2 amplification levels may be associated with changes in DDLPS metabolism. Six patient-derived DDLPS cell line models were subject to comprehensive metabolomic (Metabolon) and lipidomic (SCIEX 5600 TripleTOF-MS) profiling to assess associations with MDM2 amplification and their responses to metabolic perturbations. Comparing metabolomic profiles between MDM2 higher and lower amplification cells yielded a total of 17 differentially abundant metabolites across both panels (FDR < 0.05, log2 fold change < 0.75), including ceramides, glycosylated ceramides, and sphingomyelins. Disruption of lipid metabolism through statin administration resulted in a chemo-sensitive phenotype in MDM2 lower cell lines only, suggesting that lipid metabolism may be a large contributor to the more aggressive nature of MDM2 higher DDLPS tumors. This study is the first to provide comprehensive metabolomic and lipidomic characterization of DDLPS cell lines and provides evidence for MDM2-dependent differential molecular mechanisms that are critical factors in chemoresistance and could thus affect patient outcome.
The Prowess of Andrographolide as a Natural Weapon in the War against Cancer
Authors: Farooqi Ammad Ahmad , Attar Rukset , Sabitaliyevich Uteuliyev Yerzhan , Alaaeddine Nada , de Sousa Damião Pergentino , Xu Baojun , C. Cho William
Published: August 2020

There has been a paradigm shift in our understanding about the multifaceted nature of cancer, and a wealth of information has revealed that single-target drugs are not good enough to provide satisfactory clinical outcomes and therapeutic effects for complex diseases which involve multiple factors. Therefore, there has been a reignition to search for natural products having premium pharmacological activities aim to efficiently target multiple deregulated cellular signaling pathways. Andrographolide, a diterpene lactone from Andrographis paniculata was brought into to the limelight because of its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Here we reviewed andrographolide on cellular pathways regulation including Wnt/β-catenin, mTOR, VEGF-mediated intracellular signaling, as well as TRAIL-mediated apoptosis to inhibit cancer development.