bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data Driven Mathematical Model of Colon Cancer Progression
Authors: Kirshtein Arkadz , Akbarinejad Shaya , Hao Wenrui , Le Trang , Su Sumeyye , Aronow Rachel A. , Shahriyari Leili
Published: December 2020

Every colon cancer has its own unique characteristics, and therefore may respond differently to identical treatments. Here, we develop a data driven mathematical model for the interaction network of key components of immune microenvironment in colon cancer. We estimate the relative abundance of each immune cell from gene expression profiles of tumors, and group patients based on their immune patterns. Then we compare the tumor sensitivity and progression in each of these groups of patients, and observe differences in the patterns of tumor growth between the groups. For instance, in tumors with a smaller density of naive macrophages than activated macrophages, a higher activation rate of macrophages leads to an increase in cancer cell density, demonstrating a negative effect of macrophages. Other tumors however, exhibit an opposite trend, showing a positive effect of macrophages in controlling tumor size. Although the results indicate that for all patients the size of the tumor is sensitive to the parameters related to macrophages, such as their activation and death rate, this research demonstrates that no single biomarker could predict the dynamics of tumors.
Histological and Immunofluorescence Study of Discal Ligaments in Human Temporomandibular Joint
Authors: Runci Anastasi Michele , Centofanti Antonio , Arco Alba , Vermiglio Giovanna , Nicita Fabiana , Santoro Giuseppe , Cascone Piero , Anastasi Giuseppe Pio , Rizzo Giuseppina , Cutroneo Giuseppina
Published: December 2020

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a bilateral synovial articulation stabilized by several anatomical structures such as ligaments. The existence of articular capsule reinforcement structures have been described in the lateral and medial sides of disc which have been defined as collateral ligaments, lateral and medial. Despite that, some macroscopic observations support that these collateral ligaments do not belong to the articular capsule but they belong to the disc. By that, the aim of the present work was to evaluate morphological aspects of TMJ from cadaveric frozen heads by histological and immunofluorescence techniques in order to verify the origin and insertion of lateral and medial collateral ligaments. Results show that both lateral and medial ligaments origin from the disc and insert directly to the articular cartilage of mandibula condyle. These data open a new approach in the study of human TMJ.
Isometric Mid-Thigh Pull Performance in Rugby Players: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Martin Eric A. , Beckham George K.
Published: December 2020

The isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) is a multi-joint test of whole-body force production relevant to rugby players. “Rugby AND (mid-thigh pull OR midthigh pull OR mid thigh pull” were searched in PubMed, Sportdiscus, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and Google Scholar; the final date of search was 24 January 2018. Data extraction from 24 articles included subject characteristics, force data, and IMTP testing procedures. Select ranges of peak forces reported were: Youth: 1162–2374 N; Academy: 1855–3104 N; Professional: 2254–3851 N. Rate of force development (RFD) at 100 and 200 ms ranged from 5521 to 11,892 N and 5403 to 8405 N, respectively, among professional rugby players. Studies’ research design were of moderate quality, but most studies lacked detailed reporting of IMTP procedures. Variability of force characteristics derived from the IMTP within similar populations (e.g., approximately 200% difference in peak force between samples of professional rugby league players) as well as large and unexpected overlaps between dissimilar populations, limit conclusions about force production capabilities relative to playing level, likely due to limitations and lack of standardization of IMTP procedures. Greater uniformity in IMTP testing procedures and reporting is needed. This manuscript provides a guide for reporting needs when presenting results from an IMTP in research.
Mitochondrial Functions, Cognition, and the Evolution of Intelligence: Reply to Commentaries and Moving Forward
Authors: Geary David C.
Published: December 2020

In response to commentaries, I address questions regarding the proposal that general intelligence (g) is a manifestation of the functioning of intramodular and intermodular brain networks undergirded by the efficiency of mitochondrial functioning (Geary 2018). The core issues include the relative contribution of mitochondrial functioning to individual differences in g; studies that can be used to test associated hypotheses; and, the adaptive function of intelligence from an evolutionary perspective. I attempt to address these and related issues, as well as note areas in which other issues remain to be addressed.
In the Search of an Assessment Method for Urban Landscape Objects (ULOs): Tangible and Intangible Values, Public Participation Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS), and Ranking Approach
Authors: Sowińska-Świerkosz Barbara , Michalik-Śnieżek Malwina , Soszyński Dawid , Kułak Agnieszka
Published: December 2020

The effective assessment of urban space must link subjective and objective approaches. The main aim of the paper was to develop and test such a method of assessment in relation to one of the elements of the urban landscape called urban landscape objects (ULOs). The tested method fulfils the following requirements: (1) merges social and expert opinions, (2) analyzes diverse characteristics of urban space, (3) quantitatively presents the results of values assessments, and (4) features the simplicity of structure and ease of public understanding. The method was tested in relation to 34 ULOs located in three different functional sites within Lublin city (Poland). The result enables authors to answer three research questions: (1) How do people perceive ULOs located in different sites? (2) What kinds of tangible values possess different ULOs and how can they be expressed? (3) How can intangible and tangible values be merged? The general finding of the study showed that the Old Town features the highest ranked position in terms of all the values (mean aggregation index (A) ULOs = 0.64), together with the higher share of the most appreciated ULOs, whereas the Lagoon features the lowest ranked position (mean AULOs = 0.35), also statistically comparable with the Campus (mean AULOs = 0.45).
X-ray Computed Tomography for the Development of Ballistic Composite
Authors: Ziółkowski Grzegorz , Pach Joanna , Pyka Dariusz , Kurzynowski Tomasz , Jamroziak Krzysztof
Published: December 2020

This paper presents the results of research on ballistic panels made of polymer–matrix composites (PMCs). The analysis covers two types of composites produced by the authors based on high-density polyethylene (PEHD) and polypropylene (PP) reinforced with aramid fabric. Ballistic tests were carried out with the use of two types of projectile: 0.38 Special, and 9 × 19 Parabellum, which are characterized by different velocity and projectile energy. The study presents the X-ray computed tomography (XCT) analysis for structure assessment of ballistic panels and its impact behavior, further compared to the results of computer simulations conducted using the numerical analysis. The quality of the manufactured panels and their damage caused by a ballistic impact was assessed using a multi-scale geometry reconstruction. The mesoscale XCT allowed the internal composite geometry to be analyzed, as well as a unit cell of the representative volume element (RVE) model to be built. The RVE model was applied for homogenization and finite element (FEA) simulation of projectile penetration through the ballistic panel. The macroscale XCT investigation allowed for the quantitative description of the projectile’s impact on the degree of delamination and deformation of the panels’ geometry.
MFC/NFC-Based Foam/Aerogel for Production of Porous Materials: Preparation, Properties and Applications
Authors: Qin Chenni , Yao Mingzhu , Liu Yang , Yang Yujie , Zong Yifeng , Zhao Hui
Published: December 2020

Nanofibrillated cellulose and microfibrillated cellulose are potential raw materials separated from plant fibers with a high aspect ratio and excellent mechanical properties, which can be applied in various fields (packaging, medicine, etc.). They have unique advantages in the preparation of aerogels and foams, and have attracted widespread attention in recent years. Cellulose-based porous materials have good biodegradability and biocompatibility, while high porosity and high specific surface area endow them with strong mechanical properties and liquid retention performance, which can be used in wall construction, sewage treatment and other fields. At present, the preparation method of this material has been widely reported, however, due to various process problems, the actual production has not been realized. In this paper, we summarize the existing technical problems and main solutions; in the meantime, two stable systems and several drying processes are described, and the application potential of cellulose-based porous materials in the future is described, which provides a reference for subsequent research.
Fire Design Equation for Steel–Polymer Composite Floors in Thermal Fields Via Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Park Min Jae , Bae Jaehoon , Ryu Jaeho , Ju Young K.
Published: December 2020

Owing to the development of new materials that enhance structural members in the construction field, steel–polymer composite floors have been developed and applied to steel structures. Similar to a sandwich system, steel–polymer composite floors consist of polymers between two steel plates. The structural performance of full-scale composite floors at ambient conditions has been investigated. Additionally, experiments were conducted on analytical models to predict both thermal behavior under fire, including fire resistance based on a small-scale furnace. To evaluate the fire resistance of full-scale steel–polymer composite floors, the thermal behavior and temperature distribution of composite floors should be investigated. Therefore, the temperature distributions of the full-scale composite floors were estimated using the verified analytical model in this study. Furthermore, to determine the fire design equation of steel–polymer composite floors in the thermal field, the correlations between variables were investigated, such as the thickness of top and bottom steel plates and polymers, as well as the fire resistance in the thermal field.
Effects of Aging Process on the Damping Performance of ZK60 Magnesium Alloys Prepared by Large Strain Rolling
Authors: Feng Xuhui , Sun Youping , Wan Siyu , Chen Gang , He Jiangmei
Published: December 2020

In this study, the effects of an aging treatment (T5) and a solution + aging treatment (T6) on the microstructure and damping properties of a ZK60 magnesium alloy prepared by large strain rolling (LSR) were studied by an optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMA). The results showed that both the T5 and T6 processes had a great impact on the microstructure and damping properties of the ZK60 magnesium alloy. With the increase in aging time, the grain size was basically unchanged, and the amount of the second phase increased, resulting in a gradual decrease in the damping performance. However, compared with the damping performance of the un-aged ZK60 magnesium alloy, the damping performance of the 4 h-aged ZK60 magnesium alloy was enhanced. At the same aging time, the increase in the aging temperature promoted the precipitation of the second phase, thereby reducing the damping performance of the ZK60 magnesium alloy. It was found that the T6-treated ZK60 magnesium alloy had a larger grain size, which led to a better damping performance; in addition, the T6-treated ZK60 magnesium alloy exhibited a damping plateau, which was determined by the distribution and amount of the second phase.
A Multiscale Topographical Analysis Based on Morphological Information: The HEVC Multiscale Decomposition
Authors: Eseholi Tarek , Coudoux François-Xavier , Corlay Patrick , Sadli Rahmad , Bigerelle Maxence
Published: December 2020

In this paper, we evaluate the effect of scale analysis as well as the filtering process on the performances of an original compressed-domain classifier in the field of material surface topographies classification. Each surface profile is multiscale analyzed by using a Gaussian Filter analyzing method to be decomposed into three multiscale filtered image types: Low-pass (LP), Band-pass (BP), and High-pass (HP) filtered versions, respectively. The complete set of filtered image data constitutes the collected database. First, the images are lossless compressed using the state-of-the art High-efficiency video coding (HEVC) video coding standard. Then, the Intra-Prediction Modes Histogram (IPHM) feature descriptor is computed directly in the compressed domain from each HEVC compressed image. Finally, we apply the IPHM feature descriptors as an input of a Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier. SVM is introduced here to strengthen the performances of the proposed classification system thanks to the powerful properties of machine learning tools. We evaluate the proposed solution we called “HEVC Multiscale Decomposition” (HEVC-MD) on a huge database of nearly 42,000 multiscale topographic images. A simple preliminary version of the algorithm reaches an accuracy of 52%. We increase this accuracy to 70% by using the multiscale analysis of the high-frequency range HP filtered image data sets. Finally, we verify that considering only the highest-scale analysis of low-frequency range LP was more appropriate for classifying our six surface topographies with an accuracy of up to 81%. To compare these new topographical descriptors to those conventionally used, SVM is applied on a set of 34 roughness parameters defined on the International Standard GPS ISO 25178 (Geometrical Product Specification), and one obtains accuracies of 38%, 52%, 65%, and 57% respectively for Sa, multiscale Sa, 34 roughness parameters, and multiscale ones. Compared to conventional roughness descriptors, the HEVC-MD descriptors increase surfaces discrimination from 65% to 81%.
Pyrolysis Kinetic Properties of Thermal Insulation Waste Extruded Polystyrene by Multiple Thermal Analysis Methods
Authors: Li Ang , Zhang Wenlong , Zhang Juan , Ding Yanming , Zhou Ru
Published: December 2020

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) is a thermal insulation material extensively applied in building systems. It has attracted much attention because of outstanding thermal insulation performance, obvious flammability shortcoming and potential energy utilization. To establish the reaction mechanism of XPS’s pyrolysis, thermogravimetric experiments were performed at different heating rates in nitrogen, and multiple methods were employed to analyze the major kinetics of pyrolysis. More accurate kinetic parameters of XPS were estimated by four common model-free methods. Then, three model-fitting methods (including the Coats-Redfern, the iterative procedure and masterplots method) were used to establish the kinetic model. Since the kinetic models established by the above three model-fitting methods were not completely consistent based on different approximations, considering the effect of different approximates on the model, the reaction mechanism was further established by comparing the conversion rate based on the model-fitting methods corresponding to the possible reaction mechanisms. Finally, the accuracy of the above model-fitting methods and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm were compared. Results showed that the reaction function g(α) = (1 − α)−1 − 1 might be the most suitable to characterize the pyrolysis of XPS. The conversion rate calculated by masterplots and PSO methods could provide the best agreement with the experimental data.
Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound for Assessing Abdominal Conditions in Pregnancy
Authors: Geyer Thomas , Rübenthaler Johannes , Froelich Matthias F. , Sabel Laura , Marschner Constantin , Schwarze Vincent , Clevert Dirk-André
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives: Native ultrasound is the most common imaging modality in obstetrics. The use of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) during pregnancy has not been officially approved by leading societies for obstetrics and ultrasound. The present study aims to monitor the safety and diagnostic performance of CEUS for assessing abdominal issues in five pregnant women. Materials and Methods: Five pregnant patients who underwent a total of 11 CEUS examinations between June 2020 and October 2020 were included (mean age: 34 years; mean time of pregnancy: 21 weeks). All CEUS scans were interpreted by one experienced consultant radiologist (EFSUMB Level 3). Results: Upon contrast application, no maternal nor fetal adverse effects were observed. Moreover, no fetal contrast enhancement was observed in any patient. CEUS helped to diagnose renal angiomyolipoma, pyelonephritis, necrotic uterine fibroid, gallbladder polyp, and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis. Conclusions: In our study, off-label use of CEUS showed an excellent safety profile allowing the avoidance of ionizing radiation exposure as well as contrast agents in case of CT or use of gadolinium-based contrast agents in case of MRI. CEUS is a promising diagnostic instrument for facilitating clinical decision-making and improving the management of pregnant women.
Quaternary Permafrost in China: Framework and Discussions
Authors: Jin Huijun , Vandenberghe Jef , Luo Dongliang , Harris Stuart A. , He Ruixia , Chen Xuemei , Jin Xiaoying , Wang Qingfeng , Zhang Ze , Spektor Valentin , Wu Qingbai , Wang Shaoling
Published: December 2020

The framework of Quaternary permafrost in China was reconstructed for the first time on the basis of available periglacial, glacial, and other proxies. During the Early Pleistocene (2.68–0.80 Ma BP), permafrost advanced southwards to 47–50° N in northern China and possibly occurred in alpine regions in western China. During the Middle Pleistocene (800–130 ka BP), permafrost occurred extensively on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) and in alpine or mountainous regions of northern, western, central, and northeastern China. The Great Interglacial occurred afterward and before the Last Glaciation, but the evidence of permafrost for this period has been seldom found. Permafrost evolution of the Last Glaciation (72–19 ka BP) in China is divided into: Expansion (72~50 ka BP), degradation (50–26 ka BP), and intensive expansion during the Last Permafrost Maximum (LPMax, 26–19 ka BP) with a permafrost extent of 5.3 × 106~5.4 × 106 km2, and when major features of present permafrost took shape. Permafrost fluctuated during the Younger Dryas (12.9–11.7 ka BP). Since the Holocene, permafrost in China expanded and retreated to lesser extents, forming the current permafrost environment. The Holocene evolution of permafrost was divided into: Unstable climate but stable permafrost during the early Holocene (11.7~8.5–7.0 ka BP); permafrost degradation during the Last Permafrost Minimum (LPMin, or the Holocene Megathermal; 8.5–7.0~4.0–3.0 ka BP) and the Medieval Warm Period (MWP; 1.0~0.5 ka BP); permafrost expansion during the Neoglaciation (4.0–3.0~1.0 ka BP) and the Little Ice Age (LIA; 0.5~0.1 ka BP); and recent permafrost degradation (20th century to the present). However, this review paper only provides the framework of Quaternary permafrost in China and some preliminary discussions. Many key questions await further investigations.
Photoelectric Sensor for Fast and Low-Priced Determination of Bi- and Triphasic Segmented Slug Flow Parameters
Authors: von Vietinghoff Niclas , Lungrin Waldemar , Schulzke Raphael , Tilly Jonas , Agar David W.
Published: December 2020

Applying multiphase systems in microreactors leads to an intensification of heat and mass transport. Critical aspects of the well-studied segmented slug-flow, such as bubble generation and pump control, can be automated, provided a robust sensor for the reliable determination of velocity, phase lengths, and phase ratio(s) is available. In this work, a fast and low-priced sensor is presented, based on two optical transmission sensors detecting flow characteristics noninvasively together with a microcontroller. The resulting signal is mainly due to refraction of the bubble-specific geometries as shown by a simulation of light paths. The high performance of the processing procedure, utilizing the derivative of the signal, is demonstrated for a bi- and triphasic slug flow. The error of <5% is entirely reasonable for the purpose envisaged. The sensor presented is very fast, robust, and inexpensive, thus enhancing the attractiveness of parallelized capillary reactors for industrial applications.
Electrochemical Aptasensors Based on Hybrid Metal-Organic Frameworks
Authors: Evtugyn Gennady , Belyakova Svetlana , Porfireva Anna , Hianik Tibor
Published: December 2020

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) offer a unique variety of properties and morphology of the structure that make it possible to extend the performance of existing and design new electrochemical biosensors. High porosity, variable size and morphology, compatibility with common components of electrochemical sensors, and easy combination with bioreceptors make MOFs very attractive for application in the assembly of electrochemical aptasensors. In this review, the progress in the synthesis and application of the MOFs in electrochemical aptasensors are considered with an emphasis on the role of the MOF materials in aptamer immobilization and signal generation. The literature information of the use of MOFs in electrochemical aptasensors is classified in accordance with the nature and role of MOFs and a signal mode. In conclusion, future trends in the application of MOFs in electrochemical aptasensors are briefly discussed.
A Pressure-Insensitive Self-Attachable Flexible Strain Sensor with Bioinspired Adhesive and Active CNT Layers
Authors: Seong Minho , Hwang Insol , Lee Joosung , Jeong Hoon Eui
Published: December 2020

Flexible tactile sensors are required to maintain conformal contact with target objects and to differentiate different tactile stimuli such as strain and pressure to achieve high sensing performance. However, many existing tactile sensors do not have the ability to distinguish strain from pressure. Moreover, because they lack intrinsic adhesion capability, they require additional adhesive tapes for surface attachment. Herein, we present a self-attachable, pressure-insensitive strain sensor that can firmly adhere to target objects and selectively perceive tensile strain with high sensitivity. The proposed strain sensor is mainly composed of a bioinspired micropillar adhesive layer and a selectively coated active carbon nanotube (CNT) layer. We show that the bioinspired adhesive layer enables strong self-attachment of the sensor to diverse planar and nonplanar surfaces with a maximum adhesion strength of 257 kPa, while the thin film configuration of the patterned CNT layer enables high strain sensitivity (gauge factor (GF) of 2.26) and pressure insensitivity.
Physical Demands of U10 Players in a 7-a-Side Soccer Tournament Depending on the Playing Position and Level of Opponents in Consecutive Matches Using Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
Authors: Hernandez-Martin Antonio , Sanchez-Sanchez Javier , Felipe Jose Luis , Manzano-Carrasco Samuel , Majano Carlos , Gallardo Leonor , Garcia-Unanue Jorge
Published: December 2020

The aim of this study was to analyse the physical demands of U10 players in a 7-a-side-soccer tournament based on the playing positions in 6 consecutive matches by global positioning systems (GPS). Variables of total distance, relative distance in different speed zones, maximum speed, time interval between accelerations, maximum speed acceleration, maximum acceleration, acceleration distance and the number of high-intensity accelerations were analysed. Differences between playing positions were found in the total distance covered by the midfielders. They covered higher total distances than the defenders (+1167 m; 95% CI: 411 to 1922 m; effect size (ES) = 1.41; p < 0.05) and forwards (+1388 m; CI 95%: 712 a 2063 m; TE = 0.85; p < 0.05). The total covered distance increased in the final rounds with respect to the group stage (p < 0.05; ES: 0.44 to 1.62), and high-intensity actions, such as the number of accelerations, were greater in the final rounds compared to the group stage (p < 0.05; ES: 0.44 to 1.62). The physical performance of young football players in a tournament with consecutive matches on a 40 × 62 m football field on the same day is influenced by the playing position and dependent on the level difference between opponents.
Relationship between Plantar Pressure and Sensory Disturbance in Patients with Hansen’s Disease—Preliminary Research and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tashiro Syoichi , Gotou Naoki , Oku Yuki , Sugano Takahiro , Nakamura Takuya , Suzuki Hiromi , Otomo Nao , Yamada Shin , Tsuji Tetsuya , Asato Yutaka , Ishii Norihisa
Published: December 2020

Orthoses and insoles are among the primary treatments and prevention methods of refractory plantar ulcers in patients with Hansen’s disease. While dynamic plantar pressure and tactile sensory disturbance are the critical pathological factors, few studies have investigated whether a relationship exists between these two factors. In this study, dynamic pressure measured using F-scan system and tactile sensory threshold evaluated with monofilament testing were determined for 12 areas of 20 feet in patients with chronic Hansen’s disease. The correlation between these two factors was calculated for each foot, for each clinical category of the foot (0–IV) and across all feet. A significant correlation was found between dynamic pressure and tactile sensation in Category II feet (n = 8, p = 0.016, r2 = 0.246, Spearman’s rank test). In contrast, no significant correlation was detected for the entire foot or within the subgroups for the remainder of the clinical categories. However, the clinical manifestation of lesion areas showed high variability: (1) pressure concentrated, sensation lost; (2) margin of pressure concentration, sensation lost; (3) pressure concentrated, sensation severely disturbed but not lost; and (4) tip of the toe. These results may indicate that, even though there was a weak relationship between dynamic pressure and tactile sensation, it is important to assess both, in addition to the basics of orthotic treatment in patients with Hansen’s disease presenting with refractory plantar ulceration.
Low-Temperature Properties of the Magnetic Sensor with Amorphous Wire
Authors: He Dongfeng , Umemori Kensei , Ueki Ryuichi , Dohmae Takeshi , Okada Takafumi , Tachiki Minoru , Ooi Shuuichi , Watanabe Makoto
Published: December 2020

We found that a magnetic sensor made of a coil wound around a 5 f0.1 mm (Fe0.06Co0.94)72.5Si2.5B15 (FeCoSiB) amorphous wire could operate in a wide temperature range from room temperature to liquid helium temperature (4.2 K). The low-temperature sensing element of the sensor was connected to the room-temperature driving circuit by only one coaxial cable with a diameter of 1 mm. The one-cable design of the magnetic sensor reduced the heat transferring through the cable to the liquid helium. To develop a magnetic sensing system capable of operating at liquid helium temperature, we evaluated the low-temperature properties of the FeCoSiB magnetic sensor.
Design of a Planar Array of Low Profile Horns at 28 GHz
Authors: Wang Jou-Yi , Ng Mou Kehn Malcolm , Rajo-Iglesias Eva
Published: December 2020

A planar array of low profile horns fed by a transverse slotted waveguide array in the low millimeter-wave regime (28 GHz) is presented. The array of transverse slots cannot be directly used as antenna as it has grating lobes due to the fact that slot elements must be spaced a guided wavelength. However, these slots can be transformed into low profile horns that with their radiation patterns attenuate the grating lobes. To this aim, low profile horns with less than 0.6λ0 height were designed. The horns include a couple of chips that contribute to further reduce the grating lobes especially in the H-plane. The good performance of the designed array was demonstrated by both simulations and experiments performed on a manufactured prototype. A 5 × 5 array was designed that has a measured realized gain of 26.6 dBi with a bandwidth below 2%, still useful for some applications such as some radar systems. The total electrical size of the array is 6.63λ0× 6.63λ0. The radiation efficiency is very high and the aperture efficiency is above 80%. This all-metal solution is advantageous for millimeter-wave applications where losses sustained by dielectric materials become severe and it can be easily scaled to higher frequencies.
A Bronchoscope Localization Method Using an Augmented Reality Co-Display of Real Bronchoscopy Images with a Virtual 3D Bronchial Tree Model
Authors: Chien Jong-Chih , Lee Jiann-Der , Su Ellen , Li Shih-Hong
Published: December 2020

In recent years, Image-Guide Navigation Systems (IGNS) have become an important tool for various surgical operations. In the preparations for planning a surgical path, verifying the location of a lesion, etc., it is an essential tool; in operations such as bronchoscopy, which is the procedure for the inspection and retrieval of diagnostic samples for lung-related surgeries, it is even more so. The IGNS for bronchoscopy uses 2D-based images from a flexible bronchoscope to navigate through the bronchial airways in order to reach the targeted location. In this procedure, the accurate localization of the scope becomes very important, because incorrect information could potentially cause a surgeon to mistakenly direct the scope down the wrong passage. It would be a great aid for the surgeon to be able to visualize the bronchoscope images alongside the current location of the bronchoscope. For this purpose, in this paper, we propose a novel registration method to match real bronchoscopy images with virtual bronchoscope images from a 3D bronchial tree model built using computed tomography (CT) image stacks in order to obtain the current 3D position of the bronchoscope in the airways. This method is a combination of a novel position-tracking method using the current frames from the bronchoscope and the verification of the position of the real bronchoscope image against an image extracted from the 3D model using an adaptive-network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS)-based image matching method. Experimental results show that the proposed method performs better than the other methods used in the comparison.
An Information Theory Inspired Real-Time Self-Adaptive Scheduling for Production-Logistics Resources: Framework, Principle, and Implementation
Authors: Yang Wenchao , Li Wenfeng , Cao Yulian , Luo Yun , He Lijun
Published: December 2020

The development of industrial-enabling technology, such as the industrial Internet of Things and physical network system, makes it possible to use real-time information in production-logistics scheduling. Real-time information in an intelligent factory is random, such as the arrival of customers’ jobs, and fuzzy, such as the processing time of Production-Logistics Resources. Besides, the coordination of production and logistic resources in a flexible workshop is also a hot issue. The availability of this information will enhance the quality of making scheduling decisions. However, when and how to use this information to realize the adaptive collaboration of Production-Logistics Resources are vital issues. Therefore, this paper studies the above problems by establishing a real-time reaction scheduling framework of Production-Logistics Resources dynamic cooperation. Firstly, a real-time task triggering strategy to maximize information utilization is proposed to explore when to use real-time information. Secondly, a collaborative method for Production-Logistics Resources is studied to explore how to use real-time information. Thirdly, a real-time self-adaptive scheduling algorithm based on information entropy is utilized to obtain a stable and feasible solution. Finally, the effectiveness and advancement of the proposed method are verified by a practical case.
Tactile Sensors for Robotic Applications
Authors: Pirozzi Salvatore
Published: December 2020

In recent years, tactile sensing has become a key enabling technology to implement complex tasks by using robotic systems [...]
Application of Inverse Finite Element Method to Shape Sensing of Curved Beams
Authors: Savino Pierclaudio , Tondolo Francesco , Gherlone Marco , Tessler Alexander
Published: December 2020

Curved beam, plate, and shell finite elements are commonly used in the finite element modeling of a wide range of civil and mechanical engineering structures. In civil engineering, curved elements are used to model tunnels, arch bridges, pipelines, and domes. Such structures provide a more efficient load transfer than their straight/flat counterparts due to the additional strength provided by their curved geometry. The load transfer is characterized by the bending, shear, and membrane actions. In this paper, a higher-order curved inverse beam element is developed for the inverse Finite Element Method (iFEM), which is aimed at reconstructing the deformed structural shapes based on real-time, in situ strain measurements. The proposed two-node inverse beam element is based on the quintic-degree polynomial shape functions that interpolate the kinematic variables. The element is C2 continuous and has rapid convergence characteristics. To assess the element predictive capabilities, several circular arch structures subjected to static loading are analyzed, under the assumption of linear elasticity and isotropic material behavior. Comparisons between direct FEM and iFEM results are presented. It is demonstrated that the present inverse beam finite element is both efficient and accurate, requiring only a few element subdivisions to reconstruct an accurate displacement field of shallow and deep curved beams.
Dominant Loss Mechanisms of Whispering Gallery Mode RF-MEMS Resonators with Wide Frequency Coverage
Authors: Chen Zeji , Jia Qianqian , Liu Wenli , Yuan Quan , Zhu Yinfang , Yang Jinling , Yang Fuhua
Published: December 2020

This work investigates the dominant energy dissipations of the multi-frequency whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators to provide an insight into the loss mechanisms of the devices. An extensive theory for each loss source was established and experimentally testified. The squeezed film damping (SFD) is a major loss for all the WGMs at atmosphere, which is distinguished from traditional bulk acoustic wave (BAW) resonators where the high-order modes suffer less from the air damping. In vacuum, the SFD is negligible, and the frequency-dependent Akhiezer damping (AKE) has significant effects on different order modes. For low-order WGMs, the AKE is limited, and the anchor loss behaves as the dominant loss. For high-order modes with an extended nodal region, the anchor loss is reduced, and the AKE determines the Q values. Substantial Q enhancements over four times and an excellent f × Q product up to 6.36 × 1013 at 7 K were achieved.
A Comprehensive Survey on Local Differential Privacy toward Data Statistics and Analysis
Authors: Wang Teng , Zhang Xuefeng , Feng Jingyu , Yang Xinyu
Published: December 2020

Collecting and analyzing massive data generated from smart devices have become increasingly pervasive in crowdsensing, which are the building blocks for data-driven decision-making. However, extensive statistics and analysis of such data will seriously threaten the privacy of participating users. Local differential privacy (LDP) was proposed as an excellent and prevalent privacy model with distributed architecture, which can provide strong privacy guarantees for each user while collecting and analyzing data. LDP ensures that each user’s data is locally perturbed first in the client-side and then sent to the server-side, thereby protecting data from privacy leaks on both the client-side and server-side. This survey presents a comprehensive and systematic overview of LDP with respect to privacy models, research tasks, enabling mechanisms, and various applications. Specifically, we first provide a theoretical summarization of LDP, including the LDP model, the variants of LDP, and the basic framework of LDP algorithms. Then, we investigate and compare the diverse LDP mechanisms for various data statistics and analysis tasks from the perspectives of frequency estimation, mean estimation, and machine learning. Furthermore, we also summarize practical LDP-based application scenarios. Finally, we outline several future research directions under LDP.
Advance Purchase Discounts for Supply Chain Finance System Coordination
Authors: Pellegrino Roberta , Costantino Nicola , Tauro Danilo
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this paper is to study how advanced information about customer needs obtained through an Advance Purchase Discount (APD) contract can be exploited to coordinate the capital flow and enhance the efficiency of a two-stage supply chain (SC) under decentralized control in cases of stochastic customer demand. We developed an APD model in the form of an option contract, where the model and evaluation include the flexibility for the upstream firm to decide whether to provide a discount for an advance purchase at its own discretion. Applying the model to a Fortune 100 company, a leader in the Fast Mover Consumer Goods (FMCG) industry, showed that under certain conditions, and with suitably chosen contract parameters, management of decentralized control via APD contracts can lead to system-wide efficiency, and the individual decision makers pursue their own best interests, ensuring a win-win condition.
The Urban-Rural Telecommunications Divide Endures: A Historical Perspective from Landline Telephony
Authors: Guldmann Jean-Michel
Published: December 2020

The popular press and academic literature show that the urban-rural divide persists with regard to recent telecommunications technologies, such as broadband and wireless service. As was the case for landline telephony, this lack of deployment in rural areas is rooted in cost differentials and lack of agglomeration economies. This paper provides historical insights on this divide, using 1990 data on voice communications in a region located in the northeastern United States, and investigates (1) whether there are differences in telecommunications usage between urban and rural firms, (2) whether advanced telecommunications technologies provide an economic advantage to rural firms, and (3) what are the factors encouraging and inhibiting the provision of these technologies in rural areas. Exchange-level data on telephone usage by eleven economic sectors are first linked, through regression analysis, to data characterizing the exchange employment, rural character, availability of advanced technology, and geography. Rural activities turn out to use telecommunications less than urban ones in the absence of advanced technologies, but the latter tend to significantly increase usage. Next, a logit model is estimated to link the deployment of one advanced technology—digital switching—to market and geographical variables. The results tend to support the idea that an advanced telecommunications infrastructure in rural areas may be important to attract activities that make heavy use of telecommunications, but also that its provision is inhibited by the traditional rural barriers of distance and low population density.
Effects of Synthetic Acaricides and Nosema ceranae (Microsporidia: Nosematidae) on Molecules Associated with Chemical Communication and Recognition in Honey Bees
Authors: Porrini Martín Pablo , Garrido Paula Melisa , Umpiérrez María Laura , Porrini Leonardo Pablo , Cuniolo Antonella , Davyt Belén , González Andrés , Eguaras Martín Javier , Rossini Carmen
Published: December 2020

Acaricides and the gut parasite Nosema ceranae are commonly present in most productive hives. Those stressors could be affecting key semiochemicals, which act as homeostasis regulators in Apis mellifera colonies, such as cuticular hydrocarbons (CHC) involved in social recognition and ethyl oleate (EO) which plays a role as primer pheromone in honey bees. Here we test the effect of amitraz, coumaphos, tau-fluvalinate and flumethrin, commonly applied to treat varroosis, on honey bee survival time, rate of food consumption, CHC profiles and EO production on N. ceranae-infected and non-infected honey bees. Different sublethal concentrations of amitraz, coumaphos, tau-fluvalinate and flumethrin were administered chronically in a syrup-based diet. After treatment, purified hole-body extracts were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. While N. ceranae infection was also shown to decrease EO production affecting survival rates, acaricides showed no significant effect on this pheromone. As for the CHC, we found no changes in relation to the health status or consumption of acaricides. This absence of alteration in EO or CHC as response to acaricides ingestion or in combination with N. ceranae, suggests that worker honey bees exposed to those highly ubiquitous drugs are hardly differentiated by nest-mates. Having determined a synergic effect on mortality in worker bees exposed to coumaphos and Nosema infection but also, alterations in EO production as a response to N. ceranae infection it is an interesting clue to deeper understand the effects of parasite-host-pesticide interaction on colony functioning.
Information control system of the Russian segment of the International Space Station
Authors: VORONIN Fedor A.
Published: December 2020

The development of Information Control System (ICS) of the Russian Segment of the International Space Station is considered. This Information Control System is intended for automatic and manual control of space experiments. To create high-tech conditions for scientific experiments on the ISS RS, RSC Energia performs operations for the ICS modernization on the Service Module, as well as the creation of ICS on the planned Multipurpose Laboratory Module and Science Power Module. The ICS modernization phases and principles are reviewed.
The conduct of a series of high-tech scientific experiments was a practical result of the Service Module Information Control System (ICS) modernization. In 2014 two cameras were installed on the ISS. Today scientific experiment Icarus is being prepared for flight tests.
The experience gained during experiments carried out allows to suggest that the ISS RS ICS will become a modern system allowing to implement the most ambitious experiments in the automatic mode on the ISS.
Key words: Information Control System, ISS, space experiments, science hardware.
The reactor research and test facility
Authors: KIRILLOV Andrey S. , PYSHKO Aleksandr P. , ROMANENKO Andrey A. , YARYGIN Valery I.
Published: December 2020

The paper describes an overview of the history of development and the current state of JSC “SSC RF-IPPE” reactor research and test facility designed for assembly, research and full-scale life energy tests of space nuclear power plants with a thermionic reactor. The leading specialists involved in development and operation of this facility are represented. The most significant technological interfaces and upgrade operations carried out in the recent years are discussed. The authors consider the use of an oil-free pumping system as part of this facility during degassing and life testing. Proposed are up-to-date engineering solutions for development of the automated special measurement system designed to record NPP performance, including volt-ampere characteristics together with thermophysical and nuclear physical parameters of a ground prototype of the space nuclear power plant.

Key words: reactor research and test facility, thermionic reactor, life energy tests, oil-free pumping system, automated special measurement system, volt-ampere characteristics.
Experimental development onboard the ISS Russian segment of the prototype system for quick localization of a puncture in the space station pressure shell
Authors: MARKOV Aleksandr V. , KONOSHENKO Viktor P. , CHURILO Igor V. , CHURILO Oleg V. , SOKOLOV Vyacheslav G. , GORBENKO Andrey V. , BUSLOV Evgeniy P. , FELDSTEIN Valeriy A. , SKALKIN Aleksandr S.
Published: December 2020

Improving safety of space station operations at the time when the near-Earth space is getting increasingly littered with space junk is one of the principal problems in space station design. Along with the measures to reduce the risk of the station pressure shell penetration resulting from a collision with a meteoroid or a piece of space debris that involve protection of the module pressure shells with shields, there is also a need for developing measures and equipment aimed at mitigating catastrophic consequences of the penetration.
One of the key factors allowing successful recovery from an emergency situation caused by station depressurization in case of a puncture is the time needed to locate the puncture, which determines possible scenarios for crew actions during recovery operations and their result. The Immediate Puncture Localization System (IPLS) presented in this paper provides reliable and virtually immediate detection of the time and location of the penetration.
The proposed concept for the IPLS architecture is based on the use of piezoelectric sensors of acoustic emissions distributed over the inner surface of the pressurized shell of the module that are connected to an electronic unit for processing signals from the sensors. The paper presents the results of studies of the scientific and engineering feasibility of the IPLS operating principles conducted at RSC Energia and TsNIIMash, as well as results of developmental tests on a prototype of such a system in the Service Module of the International Space Station (ISS) in the space experiment Otklik conducted under the Applied Research Program of the ISS Russian Segment.
Key words: International space station, ISS Russian Segment, meteoroid, space debris, pressure shell, immediate puncture localization system, piezoelectric sensor, space experiment, high-velocity impact, penetration.
Güngör Dilmen'in Bağdat Hatun Oyununda Demonik Kadın Kurgusu
Authors: VURAL ARSLAN Ebru
Published: December 2020

Tiyatro insanın doğasını, serüvenini ve yazgısını konu edinir. Tarihî, toplumsal ve kültürel koşulların biçimlendirdiği bu serüven ele alınırken oyun kişilerinin rolleri, içinde bulunulan toplumun değerler sistemini yansıtacak ya da bu sisteme yön verecek biçimde kurgulanır. Cumhuriyetten sonra yazılan tiyatro oyunları incelendiğinde genellikle dramatik yapıyı kuran demonik kadınlar, oyunların ortak unsuru olarak belirir. Güngör Dilmen’in Bağdat Hatun oyununda oyunun başkişisi Bağdat Hatun, itaatsizliği, hırsları ve arzuları nedeniyle çevresindekileri yıkıma uğratan demonik bir kadın olarak kurgulanır. Ataerkil toplum düzeninin yapısını ve ahlaki değerlerini tehdit eden Bağdat Hatun, arzularını dizginleyemediği için kendi sonunu da hazırlamış olur. Cennetten kovulma mitlerine, erken dönem anlatı türlerine ve tiyatro dışındaki modern anlatılara bakıldığında da kadın, genellikle baştan çıkaran kişi konumunda yer alır. Bu çalışmada kadına getirilen kötücül bakışın kaynakları, kolektif bilinçdışının ürettiği demonik kadın imgesinin bu oyundaki yansıması, ayrıca Türk mitolojisinde yer alan Erlik Han, Kam ve büyü yapma gibi ögelerin bu dönüşüme olan katkısı belirlenmeye çalışılacaktır.