bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliando efeitos do pareamento entre estímulos via software para promover atenção a vozes em crianças diagnosticadas com Transtorno do Espectro Autista
Authors: Monteiro Patricia Caroline Madeira , Barros Romariz da Silva
Published: November 2020

Crianças com o diagnóstico de Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) comumente desempenham com menos precisão as atividades que envolvem discriminações auditivas. As habilidades que precedem esse repertório podem ser avaliadas com alguns testes, entre eles se destaca o ABLA-R. O objetivo do presente estudo foi explorar a eficácia de um aplicativo desenvolvido para o estudo no aumento da exposição a vozes através de pareamentos estímulo-estímulo com três crianças que mostraram baixa exposição a vozes. A porcentagem de exposição foi calculada a partir do tempo que cada criança permanecia escutando o áudio de vozes dividido pelo total de áudios apresentados na sessão. O procedimento era composto por sondas de verificação a exposição a vozes após ciclos de pareamento voz-reforço. Os resultados mostraram efeitos moderados e temporários, sugerindo que o procedimento de pareamento estímulo-estímulo isolado não é suficiente para o aumento na exposição a vozes em crianças com níveis ABLA-R menores ao Nível 4. É apontada a necessidade de inclusão de outros procedimentos em conjunto com o condicionamento de vozes.
Percepção do paciente no período perioperatório em relação à assistência prestada no centro cirúrgico
Authors: Castanheira Janaína Sena , Martins Vitória Wonghon Ribeiro , Paloski Gabriela do Rosário , Bordignon Simoní Saraiva
Published: November 2020

Esta pesquisa teve por objetivo identificar a percepção do paciente em relação à assistência prestada no Centro Cirúrgico e Sala de Recuperação Pós Anestésica. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa, realizado com 59 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia no Centro Cirúrgico de um hospital Universitário localizado no Sul do Brasil. A coleta de dados ocorreu por meio de entrevista baseada em um instrumento semiestruturado. A análise de dados foi realizada a partir de análise de conteúdo, do tipo temático. Evidenciou-se que o estudo permitiu compreender a percepção do paciente em relação ao atendimento no centro cirúrgico, considerando que a partir de como o paciente se sente em sua experiência cirúrgica, será suas percepções futuras. Nesse sentido, os resultados apresentados neste estudo demonstram a importância de prestar uma assistência de qualidade. Espera-se que esse estudo venha contribuir para o desenvolvimento de um atendimento mais seguro e humanizado, focado nas necessidades de cada paciente.
Utilização dos mantenedores e recuperadores de espaço na ortodontia interceptativa: Revisão dos conceitos atuais
Authors: Silva Luana Amorim Morais da , Pinheiro Juliana Campos , Silva Gabriel Gomes da , Monteiro Fernanda Augusta Barbosa da Silva , Porto Gabriela Cunha Corbacho , Silva João Pedro dos Santos , Rodrigues Daniella dos Anjos , Feitoza Vinícius Araujo , Araujo Fernanda Santos , Moura Ana Paula Gomes e , Santos Kathleen Michelle De Jesus , Silva Thiago Ferraz da , Santos Junior Welington dos , Andrade Aline Stefany de , Silva Amanda Feitoza da
Published: November 2020

A dentição decídua é fundamental para que ocorra um bom desempenho nas funções mastigatórias, deglutição, fonação e oclusão. Existem vários fatores que podem interferir no equilíbrio do desenvolvimento da dentição decídua e/ou mista, dentre esses fatores destacam-se a perda prematura dos decíduos. O objetivo desse estudo foi realizar uma revisão de literatura abordando a utilização de mantenedores e recuperadores de espaço na odontologia. De acordo com a literatura foi observado que os mantenedores de espaço são dispositivos ortodônticos utilizados a fim de substituírem um ou mais dentes decíduos, preservando o espaço destinado ao dente permanente sucessor. Eles são classificados em, funcionais e não funcionais e fixos e removíveis, sendo selecionados de acordo com a idade do paciente e número de dentes perdidos. Já os recuperadores são dispositivos ortodônticos dinâmicos, e a sua finalidade é recuperar espaços que foram perdidos após a exodontia dos dentes decíduos. É fundamental que o cirurgião-dentista realize um diagnóstico precoce dos problemas decorrentes do espaço nas dentições decíduas ou mistas, conhecendo os fatores etiológicos envolvidos na perda prematura, bem como, as opções de tratamento ortodôntico disponíveis.
O professor de Educação Física e o etnocentrismo: um estudo sobre o bullying
Authors: Santos Luiz Carlos Soares , Assumpção Luis Otávio Teles , Caetano Júnior Marco Antonio
Published: November 2020

O presente estudo analisa as percepções e comportamentos de três professores de educação física do Instituto Federal do Piauí – Campus Teresina Central, em relação a manifestações de bullying e posturas etnocêntricas no ambiente escolar. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de cunho qualitativo, por meio de análise do discurso. O estudo é um recorte da pesquisa de doutorado que tem como objeto o bullying nas aulas de handebol da referida instituição. Constatado o fenômeno nas aulas de handebol, surgiu o interesse em investigar a existência dessa síndrome em outras modalidades. Os resultados comprovaram a existência deste fenômeno e destas posturas no universo da escola, gerando situações de conflito, revolta e apatia. Os professores alegaram fragilidade em sua formação para lidar com esse problema, de forma adequada. Consequentemente, atestaram que suas atitudes diante das situações tem se mostrado ineficazes e ineficientes. Percebe-se, desse modo, um certo descaso da Instituição em relação à formação dos professores para lidar com situações como estas.
Biological activity of geopropolis produced by Partamona cupira (Meliponinae, Apidae) in the semiarid of the Brazilian northeast
Authors: Batista Jael Soares , Silva Jardel Bezerra da , Costa Kizzy Millenn de Freitas Mendonça , Teófilo Tiago da Silva , Félix Natanael Silva , Silva Francisco Herbeson Aquino , Fernandes Luciana Cristina Borges , Santos Wanderson Lucas Alves Dos , Ribeiro Wesley Lyeverton Correia , Viana Geysa Almeida
Published: November 2020

Research on the chemical composition and pharmacological activities of geopropolis produced by stingless bees (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini) may contribute to expand its use of propolis-based formulations in the clinical context. Thus he study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and biological activity of the hydroethanolic extract (HEG) of the geopropolis of Partamona cupira, obtained in the semiarid region of northeast Brazil. Chemical analyses of HEG were carried out using HPLC-DADESI-MS/MS. The antioxidant activity of extracts was evaluated using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay method and cytotoxic activity by the in vitro MTT method [brometo de 3- (4.5dimetiltiazol-2-il)-2.5-difeniltetrazolio]. The antibacterial activity of the HEG was evaluated through the disc-diffusion test on agar and measurement of the promoted by the extract in different concentrations. The genoprotective potential of the HEG was evaluated through the comet assay on fibroblasts of L929, co-treated with the extract and submitted to genotoxicity induction with H2O2. We also investigated the healing effect of the cream containing geopropolis (10%) on experimental skin wounds in Wistar rats. The HEG presented in its composition phenolic compounds of high biological activity, as well as revealed high antioxidant activity and promoted genoprotective effect by reducing DNA damage from L929 fibroblasts. The HEG presented antimicrobial activity promoting inhibition of S. aureus, S. pyogenes, E. coli and E. aerogenes. The topical use of the cream containing geopropolis promoted wound closure and faster reepithelialization in relation to the control group, in addition to a less intense inflammatory reaction, increased fibroblastic proliferation and collagen deposition.
A eficácia do transplante de microbiota fecal no tratamento de colite ulcerativa: revisão sistemática
Authors: Bozza Marcela Jorge , Vilar Julia Maria Moreira , Kozusny-Andreani Dora Inés
Published: November 2020

A colite ulcerativa (CU) é uma doença inflamatória intestinal crônica restrita a mucosa, caracterizada por diarreia e na maioria das vezes acompanhada de sangramento importante. O tratamento habitual atual demonstra pouca eficácia, dessa forma, o transplante de microbiota fecal (TMF) foi proposto como uma opção de terapia. Diante do exposto, o objetivo deste artigo é avaliar a eficácia do TMF para o tratamento de CU ativa. A pesquisa foi estruturada pela metodologia PICO (Paciente, Intervenção, Comparação e Outcome), critérios de inclusão e exclusão e avaliação da confiabilidade e qualidade por Jadad e ferramenta Chochrane. Os resultados foram favoráveis quanto ao uso do TMF para tratamento da CU leve e moderadamente ativa, porém, a via de administração, o tempo de tratamento e a identificação do perfil microbiano necessário para a remissão clínica da doença foram divergentes em alguns estudos. Pela análise foi possível concluir que o TMF possui potencial a fim de proporcionar benefícios para os pacientes portadores de CU e mais pesquisas na área são necessárias para definir o melhor tipo de tratamento para cada paciente.
Avaliação funcional após terapias de placa oclusal e fisioterapia em pacientes com DTM: ensaio clínico randomizado
Authors: Galvao Cecilia Santos , Barbosa Gustavo Augusto Seabra , Almeida Érika Oliveira de
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: Avaliar a amplitude e o padrão de abertura bucal em pacientes diagnosticados com Disfunção Temporomandibular (DTM) que foram submetidos à tratamento com Placa Oclusal (PO) e Fisioterapia (F) após 1 e 3 meses de tratamento. Metodologia: Foram avaliados o padrão de abertura bucal e a amplitude de abertura bucal de 48 pacientes submetidos a um ensaio clínico randomizado e divididos em 2 grupos de tratamento: placa oclusal (PO; N= 23) e fisioterapia (F; N = 25). Todos os pacientes foram diagnosticados com DTM de acordo com o eixo 1 do RDC/TMD (Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders). Os dados colhidos foram avaliados através do programa SPSS usando os testes Wilcoxon, Kruskal Wallis e Qui Quadrado Exato de Fisher. Resultados: A PO e F apresentaram desempenho semelhante no padrão de abertura, mantendo o mesmo padrão do paciente ao longo do tempo de tratamento (P = 0.003). Na amplitude máxima de abertura sem auxílio ambas as terapias apresentaram melhora significativa de ganho de amplitude no tempo inicial e após um mês de terapia (P = 0.002), mantendo a amplitude até o terceiro mês, sem apresentar ganho significativo. Conclusão: A PO e F apresentaram desempenho semelhante para o tratamento de DTM quando analisados padrão de abertura e a média de amplitude máxima de abertura sem auxílio.
Artificial Intelligence and Video Game Creation: A Framework for the New Logic of Autonomous Design
Authors: Seidel Stefan , Berente Nicholas , Lindberg Aron , Lyytinen Kalle , Martinez Benoit , Nickerson Jeffrey V.
Published: November 2020

Autonomous, intelligent tools are reshaping all sorts of work practices, including innovative design work. These tools generate outcomes with little or no user intervention and produce designs of unprecedented complexity and originality, ushering profound changes to how organizations will design and innovate in future. In this paper, we formulate conceptual foundations to analyze the impact of autonomous design tools on design work. We proceed in two steps. First, we conceptualize autonomous design tools as ‘rational’ agents which will participate in the design process. We show that such agency can be realized through two separate approaches of information processing: symbolic and connectionist. Second, we adopt control theory to unpack the relationships between the autonomous design tools, human actors involved in the design, and the environment in which the tools operate. The proposed conceptual framework lays a foundation for studying the new kind of material agency of autonomous design tools in organizational contexts. We illustrate the analytical value of the proposed framework by drawing on two examples from the development of Ubisoft’s Ghost Recon Wildlands video game, which relied on such tools. We conclude this essay by constructing a tentative research agenda for the research into autonomous design tools and design work.
Effectiveness of Mycophenolate Mofetil in the Treatment of Pediatric Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis: A Retrospective Analysis of 6 Cases
Authors: Hao Xiao-sheng , Wang Jiang-tao , Chen Chen , Hao Yun-peng , Liang Jian-min , Liu Song-yan
Published: November 2020

Objective: To explore the effectiveness and safety of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) as a second-line medication in the treatment of anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) encephalitis, the most common and severe autoimmune encephalitis.

Methods: The clinical data of six children with anti-NMDAR encephalitis admitted to the First Hospital of Jilin University were retrospectively analyzed, and the effectiveness and safety of MMF were evaluated.

Results: Six children with anti-NMDAR encephalitis were treated with MMF in the 2nd or 3rd treatment disease event (3 cases vs. 3 cases). MMF initiation was mean 19.2 months (range 6–39 months) after disease onset at a mean dose of 25.6 mg/kg (range 19.6–28.4 mg/kg) for 14 months (range 6–26 months). Only two patients had transient mild diarrhea within 2 weeks of MMF application. During follow-up, one patient relapsed whilst on MMF, one patient discontinued MMF, and 4 cases were still on MMF.

Conclusion: The use of MMF in anti-NMDAR encephalitis may be effective and safe. MMF can be used as one of the relapse prevention options in patients who already have relapsed or possibly even after the first event. Delayed use may be the main reason for MMF failure.
Identification of Active Compounds From Yi Nationality Herbal Formula Wosi Influencing COX-2 and VCAM-1 Signaling
Authors: Zhang Ji-Zhong , Chen Xiao-Yi , Wu You-Jiao , Li Li-Min , Huang Li , Yin Qiao-Zhi , Luo Pei , Liu Yuan
Published: November 2020

The Yi nationality herbal formula Wosi is used in China as a folk medicine to treat arthritis and related diseases. Despite its widespread use, the active ingredients, and pharmacological mechanisms are not performed. This is the first time to identify the active compounds from Wosi with the aim at providing the potential effect of Wosi and exploring its underlying anti-inflammatory mechanism in monosodium urate crystals (MSU)-induced arthritis rats. In this study, anti-hyperuricemia effect was assessed by reducing the serum uric acid levels and increasing uric acid excretion in the urine for the hyperuricemia rat model. Wosi significantly suppressed the degree of joint swelling and improved the symptoms of inflammation induced by MSU crystals. The inhibition of IL-2, IL-1β, IFN-γ, and IL-6 secretion and IL-10 increase in the serum were also observed. This study also focuses on the screening of the main compounds from Wosi against cyclooxygenase for anti-inflammatory properties using molecular docking. The result showed 3-O-[α-L-pyran rhamnose(1-3)-β-D-pyran glucuronic acid]- oleanolic acid, 3-O-(β-D-pyran glucuronic acid)-oleanolic acid-28-O-β-D-pyran glucoside, and 3-O-[α-L-pyran rhamnose(1-3)-β-D-pyran glucuronic acid]-oleanolic acid-28-O-β-D-pyran glucoside with a higher binding affinity for COX-2 than COX-1 which indicated relatively higher interaction than COX-1. The preferential selectivity toward inhibiting COX-2 enzyme over COX-1 of three compounds from Wosi were evaluated using in-vitro cyclooxygenases 1 and 2 (COX-1/2) inhibition assays. Meanwhile, the down-regulated protein expression of COX-2 and VCAM-1 in synovial tissue sections from ankle joints of experiments rats were confirmed by immunohistochemistry analysis after the Wosi treatment. In conclusion, three oleanolic acid glycosides were implied as mainly efficient compounds in Yi nationality herbal formula Wosi for arthritis therapy via selectively influencing COX-2 and VCAM-1 signaling.
Evaluation of Eight Genotypes of Corn for the Commercial Cultivation of Huitlacoche in Nopalucan, Puebla, Mexico
Authors: Garcilazo Rahme Omar , Tello Salgado Isaac , Mata Gerardo , Parraguirre Lezama Conrado , Valencia de Ita Maria de los Angeles , Romero Arenas Omar
Published: November 2020

The infection caused by Ustilago maydis, commonly called huitlacoche, appears in regions of Mexico that produce corn (Zea mays) during seasonal conditions. The infection leads to form galls with high levels of proteins, amino acids, and minerals, providing important benefits to nutrition, and it is also becoming relevant due to its high commercial value, becoming a potential crop for Mexico, Central America, and the United States. The objectives of the present investigation are to evaluate the potential yield per hectare (Kg ha−1) based on the incidence percentage (PI), and severity index (ISE) in eight genotypes of corn, as well as performing proximal chemical analysis and mineral element analysis with the galls obtained via inoculation of the MA-Um1 strain of U. maydis. The experimental unit is made up of eight subgroups of 250 plants here, considering four hybrid and four Creole genotypes of corn used by producers in open fields in Nopalucan, Puebla, Mexico. The Creole creamy-white corn achieved the highest production of huitlacoche (12,759.21 Kg ha−1) here, obtaining an incidence percentage of 73.90%; the highest caloric content (39.90 Kcal per 100 g of fresh mushroom) was recorded in the galls produced from the Asgrow Hawk hybrid, while the highest concentration of zinc (2.33 mg per 100 g) was presented by the AS-722 hybrid.
Design, Control, and Performance Aspects of Semi-Closed Greenhouses
Authors: Sapounas Athanasios , Katsoulas Nikolaos , Slager Bart , Bezemer Robert , Lelieveld Charlotte
Published: November 2020

Several greenhouse energy saving technologies and management strategies have been developed in order to meet the needs for implementation of production systems with low and efficient energy use and low CO2 emissions. Towards this aim, a number of greenhouse concepts that make use of these technologies have been developed and tested, such as the closed greenhouse, the solar greenhouse, the energy-producing greenhouse, and others. The closed or semi-closed greenhouse concept is widely accepted as a concept to achieve the targets for energy saving and low CO2 emissions. A major difference of this concept to a conventional greenhouse is that climate control by window ventilation is partially or completely replaced by systems that treat the air, regulate the air exchange between inside and outside, and in few cases collect and store the excess heat load in order to be reused at a later time. A semi-closed greenhouse allows temperature, humidity, and CO2 concentration to be controlled independently, during heating as well as cooling mode function. Among others, semi-closed greenhouses offer possibilities for better control of greenhouse environment, for increasing water use efficiency by decreasing the evaporation losses via ventilation and for reducing the pesticide use by decreasing the entry of insects and fungal spores in the greenhouse through the ventilation openings. The aim of this review is to focus on the design, control, and performance aspects of semi-closed greenhouse systems which use either (a) an air treatment corridor with evaporative cooling pad connected with an air distribution system with perforated polyethylene tubes or (b) decentralized air treatment units distributed inside the greenhouse. It gives on overview of the principles of the semi-closed greenhouse, the potential energy consumption and the expected savings. Additionally, it gives insight into the climate conditions in relation to the conventional greenhouse, crop growth, water consumption, and pest control.
Improving Seed Retention and Germination Characteristics of North American Basin Wildrye by Marker-Assisted Gene Introgression
Authors: Larson Steven R. , Jones Thomas A. , Johnson Linnea M. , Waldron Blair L.
Published: November 2020

Basin wildrye [Leymus cinereus (Scribn. and Merr.) Á. Löve] and creeping wildrye [Leymus triticoides (Buckley) Pilg.] are native perennial grasses cultivated for seed used for fire rehabilitation and revegetation in western North America. Although L. cinereus produces large spike inflorescences with many seeds, it is prone to seed shattering. Seed can be harvested before shattering, but often displays poor germination and seedling vigor. Conversely, L. triticoides has fewer seeds per spike, but relatively strong seed retention. Both species are allotetraploid (2n = 4x = 28) and form fertile hybrids used for breeding and genetic research. A dominant, major-effect seed-shattering gene (SH6) from L. cinereus was previously identified in an L. triticoides backcross population. In this study, a DNA marker was used to select the recessive L. triticoides seed-retention allele (sh6) in cycle six (C6) of a L. cinereus × L. triticoides breeding population and evaluate gene × harvest date effects on seed yield and germination characteristics in a full-sib family derived from homozygous (sh6/sh6) and heterozygous (SH6/sh6) C6 parents. Although seed yields of shattering genotypes were 19.4% greater than non-shattering genotypes on the first harvest dates, yields of non-shattering genotypes were 167% greater on the last harvest dates. Seed harvested on the last harvest date reached 50% germination 4.2 days (26.4%) earlier and displayed 20.5% higher upper percentage germination limits than seed harvested on the first harvest date. Results indicate that the sh6 seed-retention gene will improve basin wildrye seed retention and indirectly improve seed germination by enabling later harvest dates.
Psychological Stress, Its Reduction, and Long-Term Consequences: What Studies with Laboratory Animals Might Teach Us about Life in the Dog Shelter
Authors: Hennessy Michael B. , Willen Regina M. , Schiml Patricia A.
Published: November 2020

There is a long history of laboratory studies of the physiological and behavioral effects of stress, its reduction, and the later psychological and behavioral consequences of unmitigated stress responses. Many of the stressors employed in these studies approximate the experience of dogs confined in an animal shelter. We review how the laboratory literature has guided our own work in describing the reactions of dogs to shelter housing and in helping formulate means of reducing their stress responses. Consistent with the social buffering literature in other species, human interaction has emerged as a key ingredient in moderating glucocorticoid stress responses of shelter dogs. We discuss variables that appear critical for effective use of human interaction procedures in the shelter as well as potential neural mechanisms underlying the glucocorticoid-reducing effect. We also describe recent studies in which enrichment centered on human interaction has been found to reduce aggressive responses in a temperament test used to determine suitability for adoption. Finally, we suggest that a critical aspect of the laboratory stress literature that has been underappreciated in studying shelter dogs is evidence for long-term behavioral consequences—often mediated by glucocorticoids—that may not become apparent until well after initial stress exposure.
Relationships between Selected Physiological Factors and Milking Parameters for Cows Using a Milking Robot
Authors: Kuczaj Marian , Mucha Anna , Kowalczyk Alicja , Mordak Ryszard , Czerniawska-Piątkowska Ewa
Published: November 2020

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of the number and stage of lactations, time of day and calving season of cows on milk yield from a single milking, average milking time, average milking per minute, daily milking frequency and the relationship between the tested parameters of quarter milking. The study included a herd of 65 Polish Holstein Friesian black and white cows used in a free-range barn located in south-west Poland. The animals were kept in proper welfare conditions, fed using the partly mixed ration (PMR) method on the feeding table. The milk was obtained using the Lely-Astronaut A4 Automatic Milking System (AMS). The animals on the dairy cattle farm were used in the range from the first to the seventh lactation, i.e., at the age of 2.0 to approximately 10 years. In this study, the amount of milk yielded from the hind quarters was statistically significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the trait determined for the front quarters. At the same time, the milk flow rate was statistically significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the front quarters compared to the rear quarters. The daily milk yield in right rear (RR) and left rear (LR) hind quarters was higher by 1.0 kg of milk, respectively, than in right front (RF) and left front (LF) fore quarters. The milking time of the RR and LR hind quarters during the day was longer by 104.9 and 128.8 s, respectively, than the RF and LF fore quarters. The milking speed of the RR and LR hind quarters during the day was lower by 0.2 and 1.12 g/s, respectively, than in the RF and LF fore quarters. The values of the correlation between the yields of milk and its components obtained in this study were high and positive. Correlations between the milk yield and the content of its components were negative. The obtained results confirmed that the natural physiological variability of the udder and teats structure, as well as the course of lactation, significantly affects the individual composition and milk flow during milking. The ability to regulate the milk flow by adjusting the appropriate negative pressure during the robot’s operation, in the observed variability of individual lobes of the mammary gland, increases the efficiency of milking and, as a result, reduces the risk of mastitis in cows.
Unsaturated Fatty Acids Control Biofilm Formation of Staphylococcus aureus and Other Gram-Positive Bacteria
Authors: Yuyama Kamila Tomoko , Rohde Manfred , Molinari Gabriella , Stadler Marc , Abraham Wolf-Rainer
Published: November 2020

Infections involving biofilms are difficult to treat due to increased resistances against antibiotics and the immune system. Hence, there is an urgent demand for novel drugs against biofilm infections. During our search for novel biofilm inhibitors from fungi, we isolated linoleic acid from the ascomycete Hypoxylon fragiforme which showed biofilm inhibition of several bacteria at sub-MIC concentrations. Many fatty acids possess antimicrobial activities, but their minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) are high and reports on biofilm interferences are scarce. We demonstrated that not only linoleic acid but several unsaturated long-chain fatty acids inhibited biofilms at sub-MIC concentrations. The antibiofilm activity exerted by long-chain fatty acids was mainly against Gram-positive bacteria, especially against Staphylococcus aureus. Micrographs of treated S. aureus biofilms revealed a reduction in the extracellular polymeric substances, pointing to a possible mode of action of fatty acids on S. aureus biofilms. The fatty acids had a strong species specificity. Poly-unsaturated fatty acids had higher activities than saturated ones, but no obvious rule could be found for the optimal length and desaturation for maximal activity. As free fatty acids are non-toxic and ubiquitous in food, they may offer a novel tool, especially in combination with antibiotics, for the control of biofilm infections.
Antioxidative Characteristics of Chicken Breast Meat and Blood after Diet Supplementation with Carnosine, L-histidine, and β-alanine
Authors: Kopec Wieslaw , Jamroz Dorota , Wiliczkiewicz Andrzej , Biazik Ewa , Pudlo Anna , Korzeniowska Malgorzata , Hikawczuk Tomasz , Skiba Teresa
Published: November 2020

The objective of the study was to test the effect of diets supplemented with β-alanine, L-histidine, and carnosine on the histidine dipeptide content and the antioxidative status of chicken breast muscles and blood. One-day-old Hubbard Flex male chickens were assigned to five treatments: control diet (C) and control diet supplemented with 0.18% L-histidine (ExpH), 0.3% β-alanine (ExpA), a mix of L-histidine\β-alanine (ExpH+A), and 0.27% carnosine (ExpCar). After 28 days, chicken breast muscles and blood samples were analyzed for the antioxidant enzyme activity (catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD)), carnosine and anserine content, amino acid profile, and anti-radical activity (ABTS, DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP)). The results of the study showed that carnosine supplementation effectively increased body weight and breast muscle share in chicken carcasses. Carnosine and L-histidine supplementation with or without β-alanine increased carnosine content in chicken breast muscles up to 20% (p = 0.003), but the boost seems to be too low to affect the potential antioxidant capacity and amino acid content. The β-alanine-enriched diet lowered dipeptide concentration in chicken blood serum (p = 0.002) and activated catalase in chicken breast muscles in relation to the control group (p = 0.003). It can be concluded that histidine or dipeptide supplementation of chicken diets differently affected the total antioxidant potential: in breast muscles, it increased dipeptide content, while in blood cell sediment (rich in erythrocytes), increased SOD and GPx activities were observed.
Alternative Detection of n = 1 Modes Slowing Down on ASDEX Upgrade
Authors: Peluso Emmanuele , Rossi Riccardo , Murari Andrea , Gaudio Pasqualino , Gelfusa Michela ,   on behalf of the ASDEX Upgrade Team,   on behalf of the EUROfusion MST1 Team
Published: November 2020

Disruptions in tokamaks are very often associated with the slowing down of magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities and their subsequent locking to the wall. To improve the understanding of the chain of events ending with a disruption, a statistically robust and physically based criterion has been devised to track the slowing down of modes with toroidal mode numbers n = 1 and mostly poloidal mode number m = 2, providing an alternative and earlier detection tool compared to simple threshold based indicators. A database of 370 discharges of axially symmetric divertor experiment—upgrade (AUG) has been studied and results compared with other indicators used in real time. The estimator is based on a weighted average value of the fast Fourier transform of the perturbed radial n = 1 magnetic field, caused by the rotation of the modes. The use of a carrier sinusoidal wave helps alleviating the spurious influence of non-sinusoidal magnetic perturbations induced by other instabilities like Edge localized modes (ELMs). The indicator constitutes a good candidate for further studies including machine learning approaches for mitigation and avoidance since, by deploying it systematically to evaluate the time instance for the expected locking, multi-machine databases can be populated. Furthermore, it can be thought as a contribution to a wider approach to dynamically tracking the chain of events leading to disruptions.
Event-Based Path-Planning and Path-Following in Unknown Environments for Underactuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Ulyanov Sergey , Bychkov Igor , Maksimkin Nikolay
Published: November 2020

The paper addresses path planning and path-following problems in an unknown complex environment for an underactuated autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). The AUV is required to follow a given reference path represented as a sequence of smoothly joined lines and arcs, bypassing obstacles encountered on the path. A two-level control system is proposed with an upper level for event-driven path planning and a lower level for path-following. A discrete event system is designed to identify situations that require planning a new path. An improved waypoint guidance algorithm and a Dubins curves based algorithm are proposed to build paths that allow the AUV to avoid collision with obstacles and to return to the reference path respectively. Both algorithms generate paths that meet the minimum turning radius constraint. A robust parameter-varying controller is designed using sublinear vector Lyapunov functions to solve the path-following problem. The performance of the developed event-based control system is demonstrated in three different simulation scenarios: with a sharp-edged obstacle, with a U-shaped obstacle, and with densely scattered obstacles. The proposed scheme does not require significant computing resources and allows for easy implementation on board.
Variation in Mechanical Properties of Ti-13Nb-13Zr Depending on Annealing Temperature
Authors: Lee Taekyung
Published: November 2020

Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloy is an orthopedic implant material possessing good mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and biocompatibility. An international standard suggests a heat treatment known as “capability aging” for this alloy. This study provides extensive data of mechanical properties under a wide temperature condition built around the capability-aging process. Specifically, it investigates the effect of annealing temperature (573–973 K) on mechanical properties (i.e., yield strength, tensile strength, hardness, Young’s modulus, and mechanical compatibility) of Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloys. Although these mechanical properties showed similar trends with respect to the annealing temperature, Young’s modulus exhibited the highest value at 873 K in contrast to those of the other properties shown at 773 K. Such a disparity was discussed in light of static spheroidization and phase decomposition based on microstructural characteristics of the annealed Ti-13Nb-13Zr alloys.
A Secure and Efficient Group Key Management Scheme for Clusters of String Inverters
Authors: Basile Mariano , Dini Gianluca , Vernia Filippo , Lamoglie Luigi
Published: November 2020

A string inverter converts the low voltage direct current coming from the string of its Photovoltaic (PV) panels into alternating current to be exported to the grid. In today Smart Grid’s context, PV plants feature clusters of cooperating smart string inverters that exchange information in a multicast fashion (typically) over the Internet Protocol (IP). However, IP multicast does not provide any mechanism to limit the access to multicast data to authorized subjects only. A security infringement may cause a cluster either into exporting no energy into the grid (zero energy attack) or more energy than the limit set (energy overflow attack). Both the attacks can lead to potential severe consequences. In this regard, we are the first addressing those issues. Particularly, we propose a Key Management Service (KMS) for group key generation and distribution. The KMS provides forward secrecy and periodic refresh. We implement a prototype on a cluster of Power-One Italy S.p.A. a member of FIMER Group smart string inverters and evaluate the performance. Experimental results indicate that the scheme scales up to clusters composed of 50 inverters with an efficiency of 90.5% in terms of latency for group key distribution and 99% in terms of memory overhead.
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Solar Panels Deployment with Tape Spring Hinges Having Nonlinear Hysteresis with Friction Compensation
Authors: Kim Dong-Yeon , Choi Han-Sol , Lim Jae Hyuk , Kim Kyung-Won , Jeong Juwon
Published: November 2020

In this work, experimental and numerical investigation on the deployment of solar panels with tape spring (TS) hinges showing complex nonlinear hysteresis behavior caused by the snap-through buckling was conducted. Subsequently, it was verified by comparing simulation results by multi-body dynamics (MBD) analysis with test results on ground-based deployment testing considering gravity compensation, termed zero-gravity (Zero-G) device. It has been difficult to predict the folding and unfolding behavior of TS hinges because their moment–rotation relationship showed a nonlinear hysteresis behavior. To realize this attribute, an algorithm that checks the sign of angular velocity of the revolute joints was used to distinguish folding from unfolding. The nonlinear hysteresis was implemented in terms of two path-dependent nonlinear moment–rotation curves with the aid of the expression function (a kind of user subroutine) in MBD software RecurDyn. Finally, it was found that the results of the deployment analysis were in excellent agreement with those of the test when the friction torques of the revolute joints were properly identified by an inverse analysis with the test frames, thus validating the MBD model.
Explainable Post-Occupancy Evaluation Using a Humanoid Robot
Authors: Bonomolo Marina , Ribino Patrizia , Vitale Gianpaolo
Published: November 2020

The paper proposes a new methodological approach for evaluating the comfort condition using the concept of explainable post occupancy to make the user aware of the environmental state in which (s)he works. Such an approach was implemented on a humanoid robot with social capabilities that aims to enforce human engagement to follow recommendations. The humanoid robot helps the user to position the sensors correctly to acquire environmental measures corresponding to the temperature, humidity, noise level, and illuminance. The distribution of the last parameter due to its high variability is also retrieved by the simulation software Dialux. Using the post occupancy evaluation method, the robot also proposes a questionnaire to the user for collecting his/her preferences and sensations. In the end, the robot explains to the user the difference between the suggested values by the technical standards and the real measures comparing the results with his/her preferences and perceptions. Finally, it provides a new classification into four clusters: true positive, true negative, false positive, and false negative. This study shows that the user is able to improve her/his condition based on the explanation given by the robot.
Effects of the Mortar Matrix on the Flexural Capacity of Masonry Cross Sections Strengthened with FRCM Materials
Authors: Crisci Giovanni , Ramaglia Giancarlo , Lignola Gian Piero , Fabbrocino Francesco , Prota Andrea
Published: November 2020

The strengthening intervention strategies that exist for masonry buildings are based on the use of thin composites and are a recent activity used in structural engineering. Nowadays, mortar matrices are frequently found instead of epoxy resins, since the fiber reinforced cementitious matrix (FRCM) composites are more compatible with masonry than fiber reinforced plastic (FRP) ones. The mortar matrix in FRCM composites is not comparable to the epoxy resin, and therefore its contribution is different not only in traction but above all on the compression side. Due to its larger thickness, if compared to the epoxy resin, the impact of the mortar matrix on the flexural response of strengthened cross sections is not negligible. This paper aimed to investigate the influence of the contribution of the mortar matrix on the compression side on the flexural capacity of strengthened cross section. As such, p–m interaction domains and bending moment–curvature diagrams were evaluated to understand the influence of several mechanical properties of fiber and mortar matrices on FRCM efficiency, typical of real applications. Hence, the impact of several constitutive relationships of composites (linear and bilinear behavior) was considered for the structural analysis of the strengthened cross section. The presented results are all completely in a dimensionless form; therefore, independent of geometry and mechanical parameters can be the basis for developing standardized design and/or verification methodologies useful for the strengthening systems for masonry elements.
DAEOM: A Deep Attentional Embedding Approach for Biomedical Ontology Matching
Authors: Wu Jifang , Lv Jianghua , Guo Haoming , Ma Shilong
Published: November 2020

Ontology Matching (OM) is performed to find semantic correspondences between the entity elements of different ontologies to enable semantic integration, reuse, and interoperability. Representation learning techniques have been introduced to the field of OM with the development of deep learning. However, there still exist two limitations. Firstly, these methods only focus on the terminological-based features to learn word vectors for discovering mappings, ignoring the network structure of ontology. Secondly, the final alignment threshold is usually determined manually within these methods. It is difficult for an expert to adjust the threshold value and even more so for a non-expert user. To address these issues, we propose an alternative ontology matching framework called Deep Attentional Embedded Ontology Matching (DAEOM), which models the matching process by embedding techniques with jointly encoding ontology terminological description and network structure. We propose a novel inter-intra negative sampling skill tailored for the structural relations asserted in ontologies, and further improve our iterative final alignment method by introducing an automatic adjustment of the final alignment threshold. The preliminary result on real-world biomedical ontologies indicates that DAEOM is competitive with several OAEI top-ranked systems in terms of F-measure.
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis and Rehab and Reconditioning Program for Rectus Femoris Muscle Injuries: A Cohort Study with Professional Soccer Players and a 20-Week Follow-Up
Authors: Valera-Garrido Fermín , Jiménez-Rubio Sergio , Minaya-Muñoz Francisco , Estévez-Rodríguez José Luis , Navandar Archit
Published: November 2020

Rectus femoris muscle strains are one of the most common injuries occurring in sports such as soccer. The purpose of this study was to describe the safety and feasibility of a combination of percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) and a specific rehab and reconditioning program (RRP) following an injury to the rectus femoris in professional soccer players. Thirteen professional soccer players received PNE treatment 48 h after a grade II rectus femoris muscle injury, followed by a the RRP 24 h later. Assessment of recovery from injury was done by registering the days taken to return to train (RTT), return to play (RTP), and structural and functional progress of the injured muscle was registered through ultrasound imaging and match-GPS parameters. Also, adverse events and reinjuries were recorded in the follow up period of twenty weeks. The RTT registered was 15.62 ± 1.80 days and RTP was 20.15 ± 2.79 days. After fourteen days, the ultrasound image showed optimal repair. Match-GPS parameters were similar before and after injury. There were no relapses nor were any serious adverse effects reported during the 20-week follow-up after the RTP. A combination of PNE and a specific RRP facilitated a faster RTP in previously injured professional soccer players enabling them to sustain performance and avoid reinjuries.
Optimizing HARQ and Relay Strategies in Limited Feedback Communication Systems
Authors: Zhang Mai , Castillo Andres , Peleato Borja
Published: November 2020

One of the key challenges for future communication systems is to deal with fast changing channels due to the mobility of users. Having a robust protocol capable of handling transmission failures in unfavorable channel conditions is crucial, but the feedback capacity may be greatly limited due to strict latency requirements. This paper studies the hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) techniques involved in re-transmissions when decoding failures occur at the receiver and proposes a scheme that relies on codeword bundling and adaptive incremental redundancy (IR) to maximize the overall throughput in a limited feedback system. In addition to the traditional codeword extension IR bits, this paper introduces a new type of IR, bundle parity bits, obtained from an erasure code across all the codewords in a bundle. The type and number of IR bits to be sent as a response to a decoding failure is optimized through a Markov Decision Process. In addition to the single link analysis, the paper studies how the same techniques generalize to relay and multi-user broadcast systems. Simulation results show that the proposed schemes can provide a significant increase in throughput over traditional HARQ techniques.
Calibrated Integral Equation Model for Bare Soil Moisture Retrieval of Synthetic Aperture Radar: A Case Study in Linze County
Authors: Zhang Ling , Li Hao , Xue Zhaohui
Published: November 2020

Soil moisture plays a significant role in surface energy balance and material exchange. Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) provides a promising data source to monitor soil moisture. However, soil surface roughness is a key difficulty in bare soil moisture retrieval. To reduce the measurement error of the correlation length and improve the inversion accuracy, we used the surface roughness (Hrms, root mean surface height) and empirical correlation length lopt as proposed by Baghdadi to introduce analytical equations of the backscattering coefficient using the calibrated integral equation model (CIEM). This empirical model was developed based on analytical equations to invert soil moisture for Hrms between 0.5 and 4 cm. Experimental results demonstrated that when the incidence angle varied from 33.5° to 26.3°, R2 of the retrieved and measured soil moisture decreased from 0.67 to 0.57, and RMSE increased from 2.53% to 5.4%. Similarly, when the incidence angle varied from 33.5° to 26.3°, R2 of the retrieved and measured Hrms decreased from 0.64 to 0.51, and RMSE increased from 0.33 to 0.4 cm. Therefore, it is feasible to use the empirical model to invert soil moisture and surface roughness for bare soils. In the inversion of the soil moisture and Hrms, using Hrms and the empirical correlation length lopt as the roughness parameters in the simulations is sufficient. The empirical model has favorable validity when the incidence angle is set to 33.5° and 26.3° at the C-band.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence Methods to Assess the Effectiveness of Lean Maintenance Concept Implementation in Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Antosz Katarzyna , Pasko Lukasz , Gola Arkadiusz
Published: November 2020

The increase in the performance and effectiveness of maintenance processes is a continuous aim of production enterprises. The elimination of unexpected failures, which generate excessive costs and production losses, is emphasized. The elements that influence the efficiency of maintenance are not only the choice of an appropriate conservation strategy but also the use of appropriate methods and tools to support the decision-making process in this area. The research problem, which was considered in the paper, is an insufficient means of assessing the degree of the implementation of lean maintenance. This problem results in not only the possibility of achieving high efficiency of the exploited machines, but, foremost, it influences a decision process and the formulation of maintenance policy of an enterprise. The purpose of this paper is to present the possibility of using intelligent systems to support decision-making processes in the implementation of the lean maintenance concept, which allows the increase in the operational efficiency of the company’s technical infrastructure. In particular, artificial intelligence methods were used to search for relationships between specific activities carried out under the implementation of lean maintenance and the results obtained. Decision trees and rough set theory were used for the analysis. The decision trees were made for the average value of the overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) indicator. The rough set theory was used to assess the degree of utilization of the lean maintenance strategy. Decision rules were generated based on the proposed algorithms, using RSES software, and their correctness was assessed.