bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of Mathematical Model for Sedimentation Process
Authors: Pavlenko Ivan , Ochowiak Marek , Agarwal Praveen , Olszewski Radosław , Michałek Bernard , Krupińska Andżelika
Published: July 2021

In this article, the fractional-order differential equation of particle sedimentation was obtained. It considers the Basset force’s fractional origin and contains the Riemann–Liouville fractional integral rewritten as a Grunwald–Letnikov derivative. As a result, the general solution of the proposed fractional-order differential equation was found analytically. The belonging of this solution to the real range of values was strictly theoretically proven. The obtained solution was validated on a particular analytical case study. In addition, it was proven numerically with the approach based on the S-approximation method using the block-pulse operational matrix. The proposed mathematical model can be applied for modeling the processes of fine particles sedimentation in liquids, aerosol deposition in gas flows, and particle deposition in gas-dispersed systems.
Integrated Motor Drive: Mass and Volume Optimization of the Motor with an Integrated Filter Inductor
Authors: Khowja Muhammad , Vakil Gaurang , Gerada Chris , Patel Chintan , Odhano Shafiq , Wheeler Patrick
Published: July 2021

The present trend of aerospace industries is being shifted towards a “More Electric Aircraft” system which needs to be high power dense. For this purpose, the integration technologies have gained massive interest, providing the benefits of reduced losses, weight, volume and cost. In this article, the integration concept of a passive filter inductor is presented for a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The integrated motor eliminates the need of an external inductor, thus, eliminates the added inductor losses, mass, volume and cost associated with it. The motor utilizes its’s inherent inductance to use it as a filter inductor instead of implementing a discrete inductor that is commonly placed between inverter and the motor terminals. Optimization study is carried out, where the filter branch windings are tapped, in terms of improving mass and volume and performance parameters such as power losses and torque ripple. From the optimization study, the motor with minimum weight and volume is experimentally validated at the rated conditions, in order to prove the concept feasibility. Total system weight and volume of integrated and traditional motor drives are compared, which gives the minimum weight of 2.26 kg and 3.14 kg respectively, and the minimum volume of 0.54 L and 1.1 L respectively.
Cultivation of Autochthonous Microalgae for Biomass Feedstock: Growth Curves and Biomass Characterization for Their Use in Biorefinery Products
Authors: González Juan Félix , Cuello Teresa Belén , Calderón Antonio José , Calderón Manuel , González Jerónimo , Carmona Diego
Published: July 2021

In this work, the biomass productivity for biorefinery products and growth curves of three autochthonous microalgae collected in different reservoirs (“Scenedesmus sp.” (SSP), mixture of Scenedesmus sp., Chlorella minutissima, Chlorellas sp. and Nannochloropsis sp. named “La Orden” (LO) consortium and Chlorella minutissima named “Charca Brovales” (CB) consortium) were studied in a 5.5 L column laboratory photobioreactor. Two different culture media, Arnon culture (AM) and an agriculture fertilizer-based liquid medium (FM), have been used to evaluate the growth effect of the microalgae; it was found that the medium has a clear effect on the biomass productivity and growth rate, which ranged between 0.26–0.498 g L−1 d−1 and 0.288–0.864 d−1, respectively. In general, the elemental analysis and higher heating value of microalgae biomass for the three species were independent of the culture medium used for its growth, while their lipids and sugars content depended upon the species type and culture medium used in the cultivation. “La Orden” microalga was selected (given its best adaption to the climatic conditions) to study the biomass productivity and growth rate in two exterior photobioreactors (100 L column and 400 L flat panel), using FM as a medium, obtaining values of 0.116–0.266 g L−1 d−1 and 0.360–0.312 d−1, respectively. An automation and control system was designed to operate the exterior photobioreactors pilot plant. The lipid content of this microalga in these photobioreactors was lower than in the laboratory one, with a fatty acids profile with predominantly palmitic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids. Also, the fresh biomass collected from these photobioreactors was studied in a batch type digestion process for biogas production, obtaining a CH4 yield of 296 ± 23 L CH4 kgVSS−1 added with a reduction in percentage of COD and vs. of 50 ± 1% and 50 ± 1.7%, respectively.
Cyclic Subcritical Water Injection into Bazhenov Oil Shale: Geochemical and Petrophysical Properties Evolution Due to Hydrothermal Exposure
Authors: Turakhanov Aman , Tsyshkova Albina , Mukhina Elena , Popov Evgeny , Kalacheva Darya , Dvoretskaya Ekaterina , Kasyanenko Anton , Prochukhan Konstantin , Cheremisin Alexey
Published: July 2021

In situ shale or kerogen oil production is a promising approach to developing vast oil shale resources and increasing world energy demand. In this study, cyclic subcritical water injection in oil shale was investigated in laboratory conditions as a method for in situ oil shale retorting. Fifteen non-extracted oil shale samples from Bazhenov Formation in Russia (98 °C and 23.5 MPa reservoir conditions) were hydrothermally treated at 350 °C and in a 25 MPa semi-open system during 50 h in the cyclic regime. The influence of the artificial maturation on geochemical parameters, elastic and microstructural properties was studied. Rock-Eval pyrolysis of non-extracted and extracted oil shale samples before and after hydrothermal exposure and SARA analysis were employed to analyze bitumen and kerogen transformation to mobile hydrocarbons and immobile char. X-ray computed microtomography (XMT) was performed to characterize the microstructural properties of pore space. The results demonstrated significant porosity, specific pore surface area increase, and the appearance of microfractures in organic-rich layers. Acoustic measurements were carried out to estimate the alteration of elastic properties due to hydrothermal treatment. Both Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio decreased due to kerogen transformation to heavy oil and bitumen, which remain trapped before further oil and gas generation, and expulsion occurs. Ultimately, a developed kinetic model was applied to match kerogen and bitumen transformation with liquid and gas hydrocarbons production. The nonlinear least-squares optimization problem was solved during the integration of the system of differential equations to match produced hydrocarbons with pyrolysis derived kerogen and bitumen decomposition.
Modeling of Interconnected Infrastructures with Unified Interface Design toward Smart Cities
Authors: Gabbar Hossam A.
Published: July 2021

In recent years, there have been tendencies to enable smart cities with interconnected infrastructures and communities. Current engineering design and operation practices are limited to handling individual systems with modeling and simulation, as well as control systems. This paper presents a holistic approach with engineering practice to design and operate interconnected systems as part of smart cities. The approach is based on modeling individual physical systems and associated processes and identifying key performance indicators to evaluate each system and interconnected systems with an understanding of the coupling among systems to increase the overall performance of interconnected systems. The multi-objective optimization technique is proposed to achieve the best performance based on system design, control, and operation parameters. Due to the multidimensional nature of the interconnected systems, a unified interface system with modular design is proposed to achieve the highest overall performance of the interconnected systems with standardized interactions among state variables and performance measures. The proposed approach can allow dynamic updates of the interconnected systems based on model libraries of each system and process. A case study is presented of interconnected energy–water–transportation–waste facilities, whereby modeling is discussed, and performance measures are evaluated for different scenarios using the unified interface design.
Tracking the Adoption of Electric Pressure Cookers among Mini-Grid Customers in Tanzania
Authors: Kweka Ansila , Clements Anna , Bomba Megan , Schürhoff Nora , Bundala Joseph , Mgonda Erick , Nilsson Mattias , Avila Elliot , Scott Nigel
Published: July 2021

“Are electric cooking appliances viable clean cooking solutions for mini-grids?” To help answer this question, the Access to Energy Institute (A2EI) set up a pilot project in six different mini-grid locations around Lake Victoria in Tanzania and gave 100 households an electric pressure cooker (EPC) to use in their homes. Each EPC was connected to a smart meter to collect data on how the EPCs were used. The paper presents findings from a study designed around the A2EI pilot project that aims to provide an understanding of cooking practices, the adoption of electric cooking over time, and to assess the potential for electric cooking to substitute traditional cooking fuels. Through collaboration with the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) program, Nexleaf Analytics, and PowerGen, the pilot has generated data on electrical energy consumption from 92 households in six remote areas as well as a comprehensive range of other datasets gathered from 28 households in two of the locations. This paper presents a preliminary analysis of this data. It starts with an analysis of cooking practices in these communities—dishes cooked, utensils used for cooking, and choice of fuels. It goes on to examine fuel stacking behavior, and finally, it examines how people have integrated EPCs into their cooking practices before the highlighting key impacts associated with using EPCs. The answer to the original research question will be useful for different stakeholders such as utility companies, mini-grid operators, electric cooking appliance manufacturers, the clean cooking sector, and international organizations.
Open-Pit Mine Dewatering Based on Water Recirculation—Case Study with Numerical Modelling
Authors: Różkowski Kazimierz , Zdechlik Robert , Chudzik Wojciech
Published: July 2021

The layout of the dewatering system in open-cast mining must be adapted to mining assumptions and to the size of expected inflows, which, in turn, depend on natural conditions and the operation of other mines and groundwater intakes, affecting the arrangement of the hydrodynamic field. This case study analyses possible dewatering solutions related to a change in the mining drainage system: decommissioning by flooding of a depleted deposit and dewatering of a new one located in the vicinity. As part of numerical modelling, a solution was sought to minimise the environmental impact of drainage. Forecast calculations for two drainage alternatives were made. One of the solutions follows the classic approach: independent dewatering of the new excavation. The second solution assumes the recirculation of waters from dewatering of the new mine through their discharge into a closed and flooded pit located in the vicinity. The results of the forecasts for both variants point to the modification of the hydrodynamic field resulting from expected volumes of inflows and different environmental effects. The use of numerical simulations assisted the selection of the optimal dewatering solution.
Integrating Behavioural Aspects in Energy System Modelling—A Review
Authors: Huckebrink David , Bertsch Valentin
Published: July 2021

Many countries worldwide have adopted policies to support the expansion of renewable energy sources aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, combating climate change, and, more generally, establishing a globally sustainable energy system. As a result, energy systems around the world are undergoing a process of fundamental change and transformation that goes far beyond the technological dimension. While energy system models have been developed and used for several decades to support decision makers in governments and companies, these models usually focus on the techno-economic dimension, whereas they fall short in addressing and considering behavioural and societal aspects of decisions related to technology acceptance, adoption, and use. In fact, it is often the societal dimension that comes with the greatest challenges and barriers when it comes to making such a socio-technical transformation happen in reality. This paper therefore provides an overview of state-of-the-art energy system models on the one hand and research studying behavioural aspects in the energy sector on the other hand. We find that these are two well-developed fields of research but that they have not yet been integrated sufficiently well to provide answers to the many questions arising in the context of complex socio-technical transformation processes of energy systems. While some promising approaches integrating these two fields can be identified, the total number is very limited. Based on our findings, research gaps and potentials for improvement of both energy system models and behavioural studies are derived. We conclude that a stronger collaboration across disciplines is required.
Functional Characterisation of the Poplar Atypical Aspartic Protease Gene PtAP66 in Wood Secondary Cell Wall Deposition
Authors: Cao Shenquan , Wang Cong , Ji Huanhuan , Guo Mengjie , Cheng Jiyao , Cheng Yuxiang , Yang Chuanping
Published: July 2021

Secondary cell wall (SCW) deposition is an important process during wood formation. Although aspartic proteases (APs) have been reported to have regulatory roles in herbaceous plants, the involvement of atypical APs in SCW deposition in trees has not been reported. In this study, we characterised the Populus trichocarpa atypical AP gene PtAP66, which is involved in wood SCW deposition. Transcriptome data from the AspWood resource showed that in the secondary xylem of P. trichocarpa, PtAP66 transcripts increased from the vascular cambium to the xylem cell expansion region and maintained high levels in the SCW formation region. Fluorescent signals from transgenic Arabidopsis plant roots and transiently transformed P. trichocarpa leaf protoplasts strongly suggested that the PtAP66-fused fluorescent protein (PtAP66-GFP or PtAP66-YFP) localised in the plasma membrane. Compared with the wild-type plants, the Cas9/gRNA-induced PtAP66 mutants exhibited reduced SCW thickness of secondary xylem fibres, as suggested by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data. In addition, wood composition assays revealed that the cellulose content in the mutants decreased by 4.90–5.57%. Transcription analysis further showed that a loss of PtAP66 downregulated the expression of several SCW synthesis-related genes, including cellulose and hemicellulose synthesis enzyme-encoding genes. Altogether, these findings indicate that atypical PtAP66 plays an important role in SCW deposition during wood formation.
Movement Analysis for Neurological and Musculoskeletal Disorders Using Graph Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Jalata Ibsa K. , Truong Thanh-Dat , Allen Jessica L. , Seo Han-Seok , Luu Khoa
Published: July 2021

Using optical motion capture and wearable sensors is a common way to analyze impaired movement in individuals with neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. However, using optical motion sensors and wearable sensors is expensive and often requires highly trained professionals to identify specific impairments. In this work, we proposed a graph convolutional neural network that mimics the intuition of physical therapists to identify patient-specific impairments based on video of a patient. In addition, two modeling approaches are compared: a graph convolutional network applied solely on skeleton input data and a graph convolutional network accompanied with a 1-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN). Experiments on the dataset showed that the proposed method not only improves the correlation of the predicted gait measure with the ground truth value (speed = 0.791, gait deviation index (GDI) = 0.792) but also enables faster training with fewer parameters. In conclusion, the proposed method shows that the possibility of using video-based data to treat neurological and musculoskeletal disorders with acceptable accuracy instead of depending on the expensive and labor-intensive optical motion capture systems.
Heavy Metals Presence in the Soil and Their Content in Selected Varieties of Chili Peppers in Slovakia
Authors: Lidiková Judita , Čeryová Natália , Šnirc Marek , Musilová Janette , Harangozo Ľuboš , Vollmannová Alena , Brindza Jan , Grygorieva Olga
Published: July 2021

Capsicum chili peppers are popular vegetables in Slovakia. They provide a supply of health-promoting substances, but contaminated vegetables can pose a serious health risk to the people who consume them. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the content of heavy metals (Mn, Zn, Cr, Cu, Ni, Cd, Pb and Hg) in the soil as well as in selected varieties of the genus Capsicum grown in southern Slovakia. The results were compared with the limit values given by the Law no. 220/2004 (valid in the SR) as well as threshold values proposed by the European Commission (EC) (2006). The gained result showed that the total content of Cd (1.64 mg/kg) as well as the available mobile forms of Cd (0.12 mg/kg) and Pb (0.26 mg/kg) was exceeded on the soil on which Capsicum cultivars were grown. The limit values of other monitored heavy metals (Mn, Zn, Cr, Cu, Ni, and Hg) were not exceeded. The studied species of the genus Capsicum did not accumulate monitored heavy metals. It can be stated that consumption of chili peppers does not pose any risk for human health.
Integration of Membrane Processes for By-Product Valorization to Improve the Eco-Efficiency of Small/Medium Size Cheese Dairy Plants
Authors: Macedo Antónia , Bilau José , Cambóias Eunice , Duarte Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Goat and second cheese whey from sheep’s milk are by-products of the manufacture of goat cheeses and whey cheeses from sheep. Due to their composition which, apart from water—about 92%—includes lactose, proteins, fat, and minerals, and the elevated volumes generated, these by-products constitute one of the main problems facing to cheese producers. Aiming to add value to those by-products, this study evaluates the efficiency of ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF) for the recovery of protein fraction, the most valuable component. For a daily production of 3500 and using the experimental results obtained in the UF/DF tests, a membrane installation was designed for valorization of protein fraction, which currently have no commercial value. A Cost–Benefit Analysis (CBA) and Sensitivity Analysis (SA) were performed to evaluate the profitability of installing that membrane unit to produce three new innovative products from the liquid whey protein concentrates (LWPC), namely food gels, protein concentrates in powder and whey cheeses with probiotics. It was possible to obtain LWPC of around 80% and 64% of crude protein, from second sheep cheese whey and goat cheese whey, respectively. From a survey of commercial values for the intended applications, the results of CBA and SA show that this system is economically viable in small/medium sized cheese dairies.
Impulsive Fractional Cohen-Grossberg Neural Networks: Almost Periodicity Analysis
Authors: Stamova Ivanka , Sotirov Sotir , Sotirova Evdokia , Stamov Gani
Published: July 2021

In this paper, a fractional-order Cohen–Grossberg-type neural network with Caputo fractional derivatives is investigated. The notion of almost periodicity is adapted to the impulsive generalization of the model. General types of impulsive perturbations not necessarily at fixed moments are considered. Criteria for the existence and uniqueness of almost periodic waves are proposed. Furthermore, the global perfect Mittag–Leffler stability notion for the almost periodic solution is defined and studied. In addition, a robust global perfect Mittag–Leffler stability analysis is proposed. Lyapunov-type functions and fractional inequalities are applied in the proof. Since the type of Cohen–Grossberg neural networks generalizes several basic neural network models, this research contributes to the development of the investigations on numerous fractional neural network models.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Two TOR (Target of Rapamycin)-Like Proteins Encoded by Entamoeba histolytica Revealed Structural Similarities with Functional Homologs
Authors: Muñoz-Muñoz Patricia L. A. , Mares-Alejandre Rosa E. , Meléndez-López Samuel G. , Ramos-Ibarra Marco A.
Published: July 2021

The target of rapamycin (TOR), also known as FKBP-rapamycin associated protein (FRAP), is a protein kinase belonging to the PIKK (phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-related kinases) family. TOR kinases are involved in several signaling pathways that control cell growth and proliferation. Entamoeba histolytica, the protozoan parasite that causes human amoebiasis, contains two genes encoding TOR-like proteins: EhFRAP and EhTOR2. To assess their potential as drug targets to control the cell proliferation of E. histolytica, we studied the structural features of EhFRAP and EhTOR2 using a biocomputational approach. The overall results confirmed that both TOR amoebic homologs share structural similarities with functional TOR kinases, and show inherent abilities to form TORC complexes and participate in protein-protein interaction networks. To our knowledge, this study represents the first in silico characterization of the structure-function relationships of EhFRAP and EhTOR2.
Comparative Aspects of Annelid Regeneration: Towards Understanding the Mechanisms of Regeneration
Authors: Kostyuchenko Roman P. , Kozin Vitaly V.
Published: July 2021

The question of why animals vary in their ability to regenerate remains one of the most intriguing questions in biology. Annelids are a large and diverse phylum, many members of which are capable of extensive regeneration such as regrowth of a complete head or tail and whole-body regeneration, even from few segments. On the other hand, some representatives of both of the two major annelid clades show very limited tissue regeneration and are completely incapable of segmental regeneration. Here we review experimental and descriptive data on annelid regeneration, obtained at different levels of organization, from data on organs and tissues to intracellular and transcriptomic data. Understanding the variety of the cellular and molecular basis of regeneration in annelids can help one to address important questions about the role of stem/dedifferentiated cells and “molecular morphallaxis” in annelid regeneration as well as the evolution of regeneration in general.
Genetic Background of Congenital Erythrocytosis
Authors: McMullin Mary Frances
Published: July 2021

True erythrocytosis is present when the red cell mass is greater than 125% of predicted sex and body mass, which is reflected by elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit. Erythrocytosis can be primary or secondary and congenital or acquired. Congenital defects are often found in those diagnosed at a young age and with a family history of erythrocytosis. Primary congenital defects mainly include mutations in the Erythropoietin receptor gene but SH2B3 has also been implicated. Secondary congenital erythrocytosis can arise through a variety of genetic mechanisms, including mutations in the genes in the oxygen sensing pathway, with high oxygen affinity hemoglobin variants and mutations in other genes such as BPMG, where ultimately the production of erythropoietin is increased, resulting in erythrocytosis. Recently, mutations in PIEZ01 have been associated with erythrocytosis. In many cases, a genetic variant cannot be identified, leaving a group of patients with the label idiopathic erythrocytosis who should be the subject of future investigations. The clinical course in congenital erythrocytosis is hard to evaluate as these are rare cases. However, some of these patients may well present at a young age and with sometimes catastrophic thromboembolic events. There is little evidence to guide the management of congenital erythrocytosis but the use of venesection and low dose aspirin should be considered.
Rett Syndrome Spectrum in Monogenic Developmental-Epileptic Encephalopathies and Epilepsies: A Review
Authors: Spagnoli Carlotta , Fusco Carlo , Pisani Francesco
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Progress in the clinical application of next-generation-sequencing-based techniques has resulted in a dramatic increase in the recognized genetic heterogeneity of the Rett syndrome spectrum (RSS). Our awareness of the considerable overlap with pediatric-onset epilepsies and epileptic/developmental encephalopathies (EE/DE) genes is also growing, and the presence of variable clinical features inside a general frame of commonalities has drawn renewed attention into deep phenotyping. Methods: We decided to review the medical literature on atypical Rett syndrome and “Rett-like” phenotypes, with special emphasis on described cases with pediatric-onset epilepsies and/or EE-DE, evaluating Neul’s criteria for Rett syndrome and associated movement disorders and notable stereotypies. Results: “Rett-like” features were described in syndromic and non-syndromic monogenic epilepsy- and DE/EE-related genes, in “intellectual disability plus epilepsy”-related genes and in neurodegenerative disorders. Additionally, prominent stereotypies can be observed in monogenic complex neurodevelopmental disorders featuring epilepsy with or without autistic features outside of the RSS. Conclusions: Patients share a complex neurodevelopmental and neurological phenotype (developmental delay, movement disorder) with impaired gait, abnormal tone and hand stereotypies. However, the presence and characteristics of regression and loss of language and functional hand use can differ. Finally, the frequency of additional supportive criteria and their distribution also vary widely.
Subsurface Geological Characterization of the Late Neogene–Quaternary Argive Basin, Peloponnese, Greece Using Transient Electromagnetic Data and Vintage Stratigraphic Logs
Authors: Hinojosa-Prieto Hector R. , Soupios Pantelis , Barsukov Pavel
Published: July 2021

The onshore and offshore clastic deposits of the Argive Basin and the Argolic Gulf, respectively, in Peloponnese, Greece, form a Late Neogene–Quaternary half-graben that connects with the Aegean Sea. The onshore Late Neogene–Quaternary sequence, comprised of chaotically intercalated cohesive and granular clastic deposits, is in angular unconformity with bedrock comprised of Triassic–Upper Cretaceous strongly-weathered, highly-fractured karstic limestones thrusted against Paleogene flysch deposits. While the surface geology of the Argive Basin is well-known, the subsurface geology remains both poorly mapped and understood. We utilized transient electromagnetic (TEM) soundings coupled with 185 vintage stratigraphic logs, current surface geology knowledge, and insights from available geophysical surveys to characterize the subsurface conditions of this sedimentary basin. We estimated the thickness of the young deposits (the depth to bedrock) and detected potential subsurface tectonic structures. The TEM-FAST 48HPC data acquisition system with integrated inversion and visualization software package was used with a single-loop dimension of 50 m × 50 m to collect a total of 329 TEM soundings at 151 stations scattered throughout the basin. The TEM station spacing varied from 200 to 750 m allowing the mapping of 80 km2. The total depth of investigation with the inverted TEM data and the lithology logs was 130 m and 183 m, respectively. The joint interpretation produced several quasi-two-dimensional electrical resistivity profiles that traverse the sedimentary basin in various azimuths and depth slices of average electrical resistivity covering the basin. The depth slices and the vintage stratigraphic logs revealed an uneven bedrock topography overlain by an irregularly thick (over 180 m) Late Neogene–Quaternary heterolithic sediment cover.
Probability Methods for Stability Design of Open Pit Rock Slopes: An Overview
Authors: Abdulai Musah , Sharifzadeh Mostafa
Published: July 2021

The rock slope stability analysis can be performed using deterministic and probabilistic approaches. The deterministic analysis based on the safety concept factor uses fixed representative values for each input parameter involved without considering the variability and uncertainty of the rock mass properties. Probabilistic analysis with the calculation of probability of failure instead of the factor of safety against failure is emerging in practice. Such analyses offer a more rational approach to quantify risk by incorporating uncertainty in the input variables and evaluating the probability of the failure of a system. In rock slope engineering, uncertainty and variability involve a large scatter of geo-structural data and varied geomechanical test results. There has been extensive reliability analysis of rock slope stability in the literature, and different methods of reliability are being employed for assessment of the probability of failure and the reliability of a slope. Probabilistic approaches include Monte Carlo simulation (MCS), the point estimate method (PEM), the response surface method (RSM), first- and second-order reliability methods (FORMs and SORMs), and the first-order second-moment method (FOSM). Although these methods may be complicated, they provide a more complete definition of risk. Probabilistic slope stability analysis is an option in most commercial software; however, the use of this method is not common in practice. This paper provides an overview of the literature on some of the main probabilistic reliability-based methods available for the design of the rock slope in open pit mining. To demonstrate its applicability, the paper investigates the stability of a rock slope in an open pit mine in the Goldfields region, Western Australia. Two different approaches were adopted: deterministic stability analysis using two-dimensional limit equilibrium and finite element shear strength reduction methods using SLIDE and RS2 software, respectively, and probabilistic analysis by applying the MCS and RSM methods in the limit equilibrium method. In this example, the slope stability analysis was performed using the Spencer method with Cuckoo search optimization to locate the critical slip surface. The results obtained were compared and commented on.
Aspects of the Pathogenesis and Management of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Day Andrew S.
Published: July 2021

Over the last two decades, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has been diagnosed more often in many countries around the world, including in parts of the world where IBD was previously uncommon [...]
Fascial Manipulation Technique in the Conservative Management of Morton’s Syndrome: A Pilot Study
Authors: Biz Carlo , Stecco Carla , Fantoni Ilaria , Aprile Gianluca , Giacomini Stefano , Pirri Carmelo , Ruggieri Pietro
Published: July 2021

Background and Objective: Morton’s syndrome (MS) is a common cause of neuropathic chronic forefoot pain, characterised by the development of a swelling of the common digital plantar nerve, whose aetiology is not fully known. There is currently no gold standard of treatment; nonoperative management commonly involves manual therapies, orthoses therapy and infiltrative techniques, while surgery is indicated after failure of conservative measures. The present preliminary study prospectively evaluates patients affected by MS treated by Fascial Manipulation technique (FM), a noninvasive manual therapy, focused on the release of the deep fascia, reducing its stiffness. Materials and Methods: Patients with clinical and sonographic diagnosis of MS with at least a 4-month history of neuropathic symptoms underwent a cycle of three weekly FM sessions. Clinical follow-up, including VAS and AOFAS scores, was performed 21 days (T1) and 3 months (T2) after treatment. Results: Nine patients, among 28 recruited initially, completed the manual therapy sessions and relative follow-up points. This noninvasive pain treatment led to significant improvement of VAS (p = 0.0034) and AOFAS scores (p = 0.0240) at the first follow-up (T1). At 3-month follow-up (T2), both scores decreased slightly, remaining however superior to the pre-treatment values. Only VAS was still significant (p = 0.0184). Conclusions: Despite the small size of the case series, this pilot study is unique in supporting Fascial Manipulation in the nonoperative treatment of MS. Further studies are needed with a large cohort of gender balanced patients to confirm the encouraging results obtained.
Effects of an Information and Communication Technology-Based Fitness Program on Strength and Balance in Female Home Care Service Users
Authors: Jungreitmayr Sonja , Ring-Dimitriou Susanne , Trukeschitz Birgit , Eisenberg Siegfried , Schneider Cornelia
Published: July 2021

There is evidence that training for strength and balance prevents decline in physical function in old age when the training is personally instructed. It is an open question whether interventions that deliver training via up-to-date technologies can achieve long-term effects. This study examined the effects of an 8-month fitness training program delivered via information and communication technology (ICT) on lower-body strength and balance in female home care users (n = 72) aged 75 years on average. For statistical analysis, the test group was divided into two subgroups, one who used the program at least 8 times per month (n = 26) and another one who used the program less often (n = 17) compared with a control group that received no exercise program (n = 29). It was found that regular ICT-exercisers exhibited positive effects over time on lower-body strength and balance compared to a decrease in both indicators in irregular exercisers and the control group. The authors see potential in offering exercise programs to people of advanced age via ICT to counteract physical decline in old age.
Impact of COVID-19 on Dental Care during a National Lockdown: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Walter Elias , von Bronk Leonard , Hickel Reinhard , Huth Karin Christine
Published: July 2021

The coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) has challenged dental health professions. This study analyzes its impact on urgent dental care in the Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology, University Hospital Munich and Bavaria, Germany. Patient numbers without and with positive/suspected COVID-19 infection, their reasons for attendance, and treatments were retrospectively recorded (February–July 2020) and linked to local COVID-19 infection numbers, control measures, and numbers/reasons for closures of private dental practices in Bavaria, Germany. Patient numbers decreased within the urgent care unit and the private dental practices followed by a complete recovery by the end of July. While non-emergency visits dropped to almost zero during the first lockdown, pain-related treatments were administered invariably also in patients with positive/suspected COVID-19 infections. Reasons for practice closures were lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), lack of employees, staff’s increased health risks, and infected staff, which accounted for 0.72% (3.6% closures in total). Pain-driven urgent dental care remains a constant necessity even in times of high infection risk, and measures established at the beginning of the pandemic seem to have provided a safe environment for patients as well as oral health care providers. PPE storage is important to ensure patients’ treatment under high-risk conditions, and its storage and provision by regulatory units might guarantee a stable and safe oral health care system in the future.
Exploring the Role of Visual Design in Digital Public Health Safety Education
Authors: Yi Minzhe , Bao Defu , Mo Yifan
Published: July 2021

In this research, the positive role of interface visual design in digital safety education was verified taking COVID-19 prevention and control knowledge as the content of public health safety education, where interface emotion (positive, negative, and neutral) and interface layout (waterfall typed and juxtaposition typed) were regarded as independent variables, and readers’ understanding, course evaluation and system usability score were dependent variables. As revealed in the results of a 3 × 2 two-factor experiment in which 252 college students participated: first, different interface emotion can cause significantly different understanding, where negative emotion has the best learning transfer effect; second, due to the difference in interface emotion, participants may give certain courses significantly different evaluation scores, while positive emotional interface contributes to the obviously high scores of three course-evaluation items, “appeal of the lesson”, “enjoyment of the lesson” and “interface quality”; third, significantly different system usability can be caused by different interface layout, where waterfall-type layout enjoys higher appraisal from users; fourth, interface emotion and interface layout have a similar interactive effects in terms of “effort of the lesson” and “interface quality”, where waterfall-type layout is favored in terms of positive emotional interface, and juxtaposition-type layout is more advantageous in terms of negative emotional interface. These results are of vital significance for interface design and safety education. Further, the visual design method for interface emotion and interface layout were analyzed to determine the most suitable design principles so as to improve the effect of digital public health safety education and provide constructive ideas for fighting against COVID-19 at the educational level.
Acute and Delayed Effects of Time-Matched Very Short “All Out” Efforts in Concentric vs. Eccentric Cycling
Authors: Boullosa Daniel , Dragutinovic Boris , Deutsch Jan-Philip , Held Steffen , Donath Lars , Bloch Wilhelm , Schumann Moritz
Published: July 2021

Background: To the authors’ knowledge, there have been no studies comparing the acute responses to “all out” efforts in concentric (isoinertial) vs. eccentric (isovelocity) cycling. Methods: After two familiarization sessions, 12 physically active men underwent the experimental protocols consisting of a 2-min warm-up and 8 maximal efforts of 5 s, separated by 55 s of active recovery at 80 rpm, in concentric vs. eccentric cycling. Comparisons between protocols were conducted during, immediately after, and 24-h post-sessions. Results: Mechanical (Work: 82,824 ± 6350 vs. 60,602 ± 8904 J) and cardiometabolic responses (mean HR: 68.8 ± 6.6 vs. 51.3 ± 5.7% HRmax, lactate: 4.9 ± 2.1 vs. 1.8 ± 0.6 mmol/L) were larger in concentric cycling (p < 0.001). The perceptual responses to both protocols were similarly low. Immediately after concentric cycling, vertical jump was potentiated (p = 0.028). Muscle soreness (VAS; p = 0.016) and thigh circumference (p = 0.045) were slightly increased only 24-h after eccentric cycling. Serum concentrations of CK, BAG3, and MMP-13 did not change significantly post-exercise. Conclusions: These results suggest the appropriateness of the eccentric cycling protocol used as a time-efficient (i.e., ~60 kJ in 10 min) and safe (i.e., without exercise-induced muscle damage) alternative to be used with different populations in future longitudinal interventions.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution and Influencing Factors of Human and Veterinary Pharmaceuticals in the Tributary Surface Waters of the Han River Watershed, South Korea
Authors: Im Jong Kwon , Kim Sang Hun , Kim Young Seuk , Yu Soon Ju
Published: July 2021

Human and veterinary pharmaceuticals are being increasingly used for disease treatment; hence, their distribution and factors influencing them in the aquatic environment need to be investigated. This study observed the effect of human and animal populations, usage, purchasing criteria (prescription vs. non-prescription), and land use to identify the spatio-temporal distribution of eight pharmaceuticals at twenty-four sites of the tributaries of the Han River watershed. In rural areas, the mean concentration (detection frequency) of non-prescription pharmaceuticals (NPPs) was higher (lower) compared to that of prescription pharmaceuticals (PPs); in urban areas, a reverse trend was observed. Pharmaceutical concentrations in urban and rural areas were mainly affected by wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and non-point sources, respectively; concentrations were higher downstream (4.9 times) than upstream of the WWTPs. The concentration distribution (according to the target) was as follows: human–veterinary > human > veterinary. Correlation between total concentration and total usage of the pharmaceuticals was high, except for NPPs. Most livestock and land use (except cropland) were significantly positively correlated with pharmaceutical concentrations. Concentrations were mainly higher (1.5 times) during cold seasons than during warm seasons. The results of this study can assist policymakers in managing pharmaceutical pollutants while prioritizing emerging pollutants.
Longitudinal Associations between the Neighborhood Built Environment and Cognition in US Older Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Besser Lilah M. , Chang Lun-Ching , Hirsch Jana A. , Rodriguez Daniel A. , Renne John , Rapp Stephen R. , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Heckbert Susan R. , Kaufman Joel D. , Hughes Timothy M.
Published: July 2021

Few studies have examined associations between neighborhood built environments (BE) and longitudinally measured cognition. We examined whether four BE characteristics were associated with six-year change in global cognition and processing speed. We obtained data on 1816 participants without dementia from the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. BE measures included social destination density, walking destination density, proportion of land dedicated to retail, and network ratio (street connectivity). Global cognition was measured with the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI) and processing speed with the Digit Symbol Coding test (DSC). Multivariable random intercept logistic models tested associations between neighborhood BE at 2010–2012 and maintained/improved cognition (versus decline) from 2010–2018, and mediation by minutes of physical activity (PA)/week. The sample was an average of 67 years old (standard deviation = 8.2) (first cognitive measurement) and racially/ethnically diverse (29% African American, 11% Chinese, 17% Hispanic, 44% White). Compared to individuals with no walking destinations in the 1-mile surrounding their residence, those with 716 walking destinations (maximum observed) were 1.24 times more likely to have maintain/improved DSC score (Odds ratio: 1.24; 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.45). No other associations were observed between BE and cognition, and PA minutes/week did not mediate the association between walking destination density and DSC change. This study provides limited evidence for an association between greater neighborhood walking destinations and maintained/improved processing speed in older age and no evidence for associations between the other BE characteristics and cognition. Future studies with finer grained BE and cognitive measures and longer-term follow up may be required.
What Are University Professors’ Motivations? A Realistic Approach to Self-Perception of a Group of Spanish University Professors Belonging to the G-9 Group of Universities
Authors: Espejo-Antúnez Luis , Corrales-Serrano Mario , Zamora-Polo Francisco , González-Velasco Miguel , Cardero-Durán María de los Ángeles
Published: July 2021

Universities face challenges on a number of levels. In this scenario, university professors play an important role as facilitators of knowledge. The main objective of this study was to analyse the motivations that influence the professional performance in a sample of 102 university professors from nine Spanish public universities (Male: 54 (52.9%); Female: 48 (47.1%)). For this purpose, a questionnaire of 22 closed-ended Likert-type questions was designed, in which scores ranged from 0 to 10 (do not agree at all, strongly agree). Following analysis, the final questionnaire was composed of 17 items, and showed good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.858). The validity analysis showed a value of 0.822 (>0.5) in the sample adequacy measure of Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin and Bartlett’s sphericity test (p < 0.0001). The exploratory factor analysis showed a clustering in four factors (two for intrinsic motivations and two for extrinsic motivations), explaining 64.33% of the total variance. Comparisons between each factor score by gender (male and female) showed statistically significant differences for factor F1 (higher for females) and F2 (higher for males). Finally, Q1 and Q13 showed a statistically significant correlation (p ≤ 0.05) with years of teaching experience. The motivations of Spanish university professors appear to be associated with the age and gender of the teacher.
Assessment of Color Perception and Preference with Eye-Tracking Analysis in a Dental Treatment Environment
Authors: Song Eun-Sung , Kim Won-Hyeon , Lee Beom-Hui , Han Dong-Wook , Lee Jong-Ho , Kim Bongju
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, medical facilities are developing their treatment environment to provide better services to their patients. In particular, dental hospitals have been considered uncomfortable and uninviting spaces, which needs to change so that people can visit easily and feel more relaxed. However, only a few systematic studies have reported on the demand for building a comfortable space. This study aimed to investigate gaze characteristics based on a color preference survey of the dental unit chair, which has the most influence on spatial perception in the dental treatment environment, using an eye tracking technique for color. The results of this study showed that the color perception by eye tracking and the color preference by survey did not tend to match. The color most viewed by a majority of subjects was pink, which attracted a high level of attention, regardless of personal preference. In addition, for the psychological color images associated with color preference, the subjects tended to prefer images such as warmth, friendliness, and calmness. This appeared to reflect the psychology of the subjects who wished to replace their feelings of anxiety or fear when going to the dental hospital with comfort and tranquility. Therefore, colors that can provide comfort and tranquility to patients should be considered first as visual elements (e.g., brown) in creating a dental treatment environment.
Room Size Influences Flow in Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Authors: Kanji Falisha , Cohen Tara , Alfred Myrtede , Caron Ashley , Lawton Samuel , Savage Stephen , Shouhed Daniel , Anger Jennifer T. , Catchpole Ken
Published: July 2021

The introduction of surgical technology into existing operating rooms (ORs) can place novel demands on staff and infrastructure. Despite the substantial physical size of the devices in robotic-assisted surgery (RAS), the workspace implications are rarely considered. This study aimed to explore the impact of OR size on the environmental causes of surgical flow disruptions (FDs) occurring during RAS. Fifty-six RAS procedures were observed at two academic hospitals between July 2019 and January 2021 across general, urologic, and gynecologic surgical specialties. A multiple regression analysis demonstrated significant effects of room size in the pre-docking phase (t = 2.170, df = 54, β = 0.017, p = 0.035) where the rate of FDs increased as room size increased, and docking phase (t = −2.488, df = 54, β = −0.017, p = 0.016) where the rate of FDs increased as room size decreased. Significant effects of site (pre-docking phase: p = 0.000 and docking phase: p = 0.000) were also demonstrated. Findings from this study demonstrate hitherto unrecognized spatial challenges involved with introducing surgical robots into the operating domain. While new technology may provide benefits towards patient safety, it is important to consider the needs of the technology prior to integration.