bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electric Power Network Interconnection: A Review on Current Status, Future Prospects and Research Direction
Authors: Imdadullah  , Alamri Basem , Hossain Md. Alamgir , Asghar M. S. Jamil
Published: September 2021

An interconnection of electric power networks enables decarbonization of the electricity system by harnessing and sharing large amounts of renewable energy. The highest potential renewable energy areas are often far from load centers, integrated through long-distance transmission interconnections. The transmission interconnection mitigates the variability of renewable energy sources by importing and exporting electricity between neighbouring regions. This paper presents an overview of regional and global energy consumption trends by use of fuel. A large power grid interconnection, including renewable energy and its integration into the utility grid, and globally existing large power grid interconnections are also presented. The technologies used for power grid interconnections include HVAC, HVDC (including LCC, VSC comprising of MMC-VSC, HVDC light), VFT, and newly proposed FASAL are discussed with their potential projects. Future trends of grid interconnection, including clean energy initiatives and developments, UHV AC and DC transmission systems, and smart grid developments, are presented in detail. A review of regional and global initiatives in the context of a sustainable future by implementing electric energy interconnections is presented. It presents the associated challenges and benefits of globally interconnected power grids and intercontinental interconnectors. Finally, in this paper, research directions in clean and sustainable energy, smart grid, UHV transmission systems that facilitate the global future grid interconnection goal are addressed.
Study on Electric Field Modulation and Avalanche Enhancement of SiC/GaN IMPATT Diode
Authors: Dai Yang , Dang Jiangtao , Ye Qingsong , Lu Zhaoyang , Pu Shi , Lei Xiaoyi , Zhao Shenglei , Zhang Yunyao , Liao Chenguang , Zhang Han , Zhao Wu
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a 6H-materials silicon carbide (SiC)/gallium nitride (GaN) heterogeneous p-n structure to replace the GaN homogenous p-n junction to manufacture an impact-ionization-avalanche-transit-time (IMPATT) diode, and the performance of this 6H-SiC/GaN heterojunction single-drift-region (SDR) IMPATT diode is simulated at frequencies above 100 GHz. The performance parameters of the studied device were simulated and compared with the conventional GaN p-n IMPATT diode. The results show that the p-SiC/n-GaN IMPATT performance is significantly improved, and this is reflected in the enhanced characteristics in terms of operating frequency, rf power, and dc-rf conversion efficiency by the two mechanisms. One such characteristic that the new structure has an excessive avalanche injection of electrons in the p-type SiC region owing to the ionization characteristics of the SiC material, while another is a lower electric field distribution in the drift region, which can induce a higher electron velocity and larger current in the structure. The work provides a reference to obtain a deeper understanding of the mechanism and design of IMPATT devices based on wide-bandgap semiconductor materials.
Water and Energy Efficiency Assessment in Urban Green Spaces
Authors: Monteiro Laura , Cristina Raquel , Covas Dídia
Published: September 2021

Urban green spaces can be intensive water and energy consumers in the cities, particularly in water scarce regions. Though a very efficient use of such resources is necessary, tools for assessing both water and energy consumption and efficiency are not available. In this paper, a new methodology based on water and energy balances is developed for assessing the water-use and energy efficiency in urban green spaces. The proposed balances, adapted from those developed for water supply systems, are specifically tailored for accounting for urban green spaces specificities, namely, landscape water requirements, other uses besides irrigation and over irrigation water losses. The methodology is demonstrated in two case studies of different nature and characteristics: a modern garden with a smart irrigation system and an urban park with traditional irrigation system. The results show that the developed water balances allow to estimate and assess the irrigation efficiency over the years and to assess the effectiveness of implemented water saving measures. The application of the water–energy balance demonstrates the impact of water efficiency measures on the energy efficiency of the irrigation systems. The proposed methodology can be used to assess water and water–energy efficiency in urban green spaces and to identify the most adequate improvement measures, contributing for a better management of the two resources in the cities.
Life Cycle Environmental Assessment of Energy Valorization of the Residual Agro-Food Industry
Authors: Cusenza Maria Anna , Cellura Maurizio , Guarino Francesco , Longo Sonia
Published: September 2021

This study assesses the potential environmental impacts related to the energy valorization of agro-food industry waste thought the Life Cycle Assessment methodology (ISO 14040). The system examined consists of a real anaerobic digester coupled with a combined anaerobic digester and heat and power plant (AD-CHP) operating in Sicily. The analysis accounts for all the impacts occurring from the delivery of the biomass to the AD-CHP plant up to the electricity generation in the CHP. The main outcomes of the study include the eco-profile of the energy system providing electricity and the assessment of the contribution of each life cycle phase aimed at identifying the potential improvement area. The obtained results highlight that the direct emissions associated with the biogas combustion process in the CHP account for 66% of the impact on climate change, and feedstock transport contributes 64% to the impact on mineral, fossil fuels, and renewable depletion. The contribution to the impacts caused by the electricity consumption is relevant in many of the environmental categories examined. It ranges from a minimum of about 22% for climate change up to 82% for freshwater ecotoxicity. Then actions aimed at reducing electricity consumption can significantly improve the environmental performances of the energy system examined.
Tasting the Italian Terroir through Craft Beer: Quality and Sensory Assessment of Cascade Hops Grown in Central Italy and Derived Monovarietal Beers
Authors: Carbone Katya , Bianchi Giulia , Petrozziello Maurizio , Bonello Federica , Macchioni Valentina , Parisse Barbara , De Natale Flora , Alilla Roberta , Cravero Maria Carla
Published: September 2021

The present study aimed to chemically and sensorially characterize hop samples, cv Cascade, grown in two different Italian regions (Latium and Tuscany) as well as their derived beers by a multi analytical approach. Significant differences in bitter acid, oil and polyphenol content were observed for hop samples according to their origin. Gas chromatography-olfactometry analysis pointed out floral notes for Tuscany samples, where hops from Latium were characterized by spicy and resinous notes, correlated to the presence of sesquiterpenes. Differences in the molecular fingerprinting were also highlighted by Fourier–Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. The differences found in the hops were reflected in the beers, which were clearly recognized as distinct by a sensory panel. Both beer samples were mainly characterized by six aroma compounds (linalool, geraniol and β-damascenone, citronellol, 2-phenylethyl acetate, and 2-phenylethanol), three of which were potentially responsible for the geographic origin of the hops given their significantly different concentrations.
Novel Yeasts Producing High Levels of Conjugated Linoleic Acid and Organic Acids in Fermented Doughs
Authors: Palla Michela , Conte Giuseppe , Grassi Arianna , Esin Semih , Serra Andrea , Mele Marcello , Giovannetti Manuela , Agnolucci Monica
Published: September 2021

Traditional fermented foods are obtained by a complex consortium of autochthonous microorganisms producing a wide variety of bioactive compounds, thus representing a reservoir of strains with new functional properties. Here, doughs obtained using five different wholegrain flours were singly fermented with selected yeast strains, which were evaluated for their functional traits. Lactate, volatile fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid isomers produced by fermented doughs were detected by HPLC, while dough anti-inflammatory capacity was measured on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells by flow cytometry. Yeast potential probiotic activity was assessed by evaluating their resistance to simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. For the first time we report evidence of yeast strains producing high levels of the conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomer CLA 10-12tc and propionic acid, which are known for their specific health benefits. Moreover, such yeast strains showed an anti-inflammatory capacity, as revealed by a significantly decreased production of the strongly pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β. All our Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains were remarkably resistant to simulated gastric and intestinal fluids, as compared to the commercial probiotic strain. The two strains S. cerevisiae IMA D18Y and L10Y showed the best survival percentage. Our novel yeast strains may be exploited as valuable functional starters for the industrial production of cereal-based innovative and health-promoting fermented foods.
Comparison of Nutritional and Nutraceutical Properties of Burdock Roots Cultivated in Fengxian and Peixian of China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxiao , Herrera-Balandrano Daniela D. , Huang Wuyang , Chai Zhi , Beta Trust , Wang Jing , Feng Jin , Li Ying
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to analyze and compare the nutritional quality of powders of burdock root from Fengxian (FX) and Peixian (PX) in China. The nutrient composition including carbohydrates, protein, amino acids, vitamin C, carotenoids, as well as total phenols, total flavonoids and phenolic compounds were investigated in addition to in vitro antioxidant capacity. The results showed that the basic nutrients of burdock root powder (BRP) in both locations did not have significant differences (p > 0.05), although the in vitro antioxidant capacity of BRP of Fengxian (F-BRP) was greater than that of PX (p < 0.05). The burdock root peel powder (BRPP) possessed more phenolics and stronger in vitro antioxidant capacity than the burdock root powder (BRP) and peeled burdock root powder (PBRP) (p < 0.05). Moreover, better quality burdock root was obtained from FX. F-BRP was consequently analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry for its phenolic composition. Seventeen phenolics, mainly caffeoylquinic acids, were detected. In addition, a total of 181 volatile compounds belonging to eight types were detected including alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, alkenes, esters, acids, linear or aromatic hydrocarbons, and others. The diverse compounds found in this study can provide a theoretical basis for the development and utilization of burdock in the food industry.
Take a Bite! The Effect of Bitten Food in Pictures on Product Attitudes, Purchase Intentions, and Willingness to Pay
Authors: Meersseman Eva , Geuens Maggie , Vermeir Iris
Published: September 2021

Food pictures in advertisements, on packages, and on social media often display food with a bite in it. We investigated the effect of pictures of food with a bite (vs. no bite) on product attitudes, purchase intentions, and willingness to pay. In two online experimental studies we tested this effect for both pictures without context, as well as pictures in an advertisement. We also investigated two theories that could lead to opposite effects: consumer contamination and embodied mental simulation. We found that a picture of food with a bite (vs. no bite) resulted in lower purchase intentions, and that this effect was mediated by disgust (i.e., consumer contamination). Furthermore, we found an interaction effect of picture type (i.e., bite vs. no bite) and context (i.e., no context vs. advertisement) on purchase intentions: the effect of picture type on purchase intentions was attenuated when the picture appeared in an advertisement (vs. when the picture is shown without context). We found similar effects on product attitudes and willingness to pay. Lastly, a picture of food with a bite (vs. no bite) had no effect on embodied mental simulation. Field practitioners are advised to take caution when using pictures of bitten food as this may lead to unfavorable consumer responses because of a feeling if disgust.
Changes in Phenolics during Cooking Extrusion: A Review
Authors: Šárka Evžen , Sluková Marcela , Henke Svatopluk
Published: September 2021

In this paper, significant attention is paid to the retention of phenolics in extrudates and their health effects. Due to the large number of recent articles devoted to total phenolic content (TPC) of input mixtures and extrudates, the technological changes are only presented for basic raw materials and the originating extrudates, and only the composites identified has having the highest amounts of TPC are referred to. The paper is also devoted to the changes in individual phenolics during extrusion (phenolic acids, flavonoids, flavonols, proanthocyanidins, flavanones, flavones, isoflavons, and 3-deoxyanthocyanidins). These changes are related to the choice or raw materials, the configuration of the extruder, and the setting the technological parameters. The results found in this study, presented in the form of tables, also indicate whether a single-screw or twin-screw extruder was used for the experiments. To design an extrusion process, other physico-chemical changes in the input material must also be taken into account, such as gelatinization of starch; denaturation of protein and formation of starch, lipids, and protein complexes; formation of soluble dietary fiber; destruction of antinutritional factors and contaminating microorganisms; and lipid oxidation reduction. The chemical changes also include starch depolymerization, the Maillard reaction, and decomposition of vitamins.
Investigating the Relationship between Media Usage, Depression, and Quality of Life among Older Adults
Authors: Wang Kuan-Ting , Fu Shih-Hau , Hsieh Pei-Lun , Lin Ying-Lien , Yang Shang-Yu
Published: September 2021

Background: The uses and gratifications theory suggests that various types of media can greatly affect people’s lives. This is especially true among older adults who tend to use media for leisure. However, there is insufficient research regarding the relationship between media usage, depression, and quality of life among older adults. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the association between media usage (traditional and internet media), depression, and quality of life among older adults. Methods: Using a cross-sectional design, this study recruited individuals aged 65 years and older in central Taiwan and collected data via a structured questionnaire. Contents of the questionnaire included demographic details, a media usage behavior questionnaire, the Brief Symptoms Rating Scale (BSRS-5), and the Quality of Life Scale developed by the World Health Organization (WHOQOL-BREF). Subsequently, multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the association between media usage, depression, and quality of life of older adults. Results: The average age of the 252 participants (107 males) was 70.0 ± 5.4 years. Regression analysis revealed a significant, negative relationship between the number of hours spent watching television and the degree of depression. Additionally, the number of hours spent watching television was significantly negatively related to the quality of life in terms of both the psychological health and social relationships categories. In contrast, the number of hours spent reading newspapers and magazines was significantly positively related to quality of life in the categories of psychological health, social relationships, and environment. Finally, the number of hours spent browsing internet media was significantly positively related to the quality of life in the psychological health category. Conclusion: Media usage may affect the degree of depression and quality of life of older adults depending on the type of media and amount of usage.
Short Term Real-Time Rolling Forecast of Urban River Water Levels Based on LSTM: A Case Study in Fuzhou City, China
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Hao , Feng Wenwen , Huang Haocheng
Published: September 2021

Water level management is an important part of urban water system management. In flood season, the river should be controlled to ensure the ecological and landscape water level. In non-flood season, the water level should be lowered to ensure smooth drainage. In urban areas, the response of the river water level to rainfall and artificial regulation is relatively rapid and strong. Therefore, building a mathematical model to forecast the short-term trend of urban river water levels can provide a scientific basis for decision makers and is of great significance for the management of urban water systems. With a focus on the high uncertainty of urban river water level prediction, a real-time rolling forecast method for the short-term water levels of urban internal rivers and external rivers was constructed, based on long short-term memory (LSTM). Fuzhou City, China was used as the research area, and the forecast performance of LSTM was analyzed. The results confirm the feasibility of LSTM in real-time rolling forecasting of water levels. The absolute errors at different times in each forecast were compared, and the various characteristics and causes of the errors in the forecast process were analyzed. The forecast performance of LSTM under different rolling intervals and different forecast periods was compared, and the recommended values are provided as a reference for the construction of local operational forecast systems.
Decomposing Differences of Health Service Utilization among Chinese Rural Migrant Workers with New Cooperative Medical Scheme: A Comparative Study
Authors: Li Dan , Zhu Liang , Zhang Jian , Yang Jinjuan
Published: September 2021

The New Rural Cooperative Medical Insurance (NCMS) in China has provided benefits for rural migrant workers’ health service utilization, but the financial coordination and mutual aid of NCMS is mainly based on the county or district as a unit, leading NCMS with the characteristics of regional segmentation. Our study aims to explore their health service utilization, as well as to decompose differences of the health service utilization into contributors. Data from the China Labor-Force Dynamic Survey in 2016 and Urban Statistical Yearbook in 2016 were used. We used coarsened exact matching to control the confounding factors in order to enhance the comparison of two groups. The Fairlie decomposition method was used to analyze the differences and the sources of health service utilization. Influencing factors of health service utilization for rural migrant workers with NCMS were diversified, especially contextual characteristic and individual characteristics. The proportion of ethnic minorities, the number of medical institutions for 10,000 people in the community, the number of beds for 10,000 people in the city, and the urban service quality index were the major contributors of the differences. The proportion of difference in the health service utilization of rural migrant workers with NCMS caused by health service need were −54.73% and 6.92%, respectively. The inequities of the probability of two weeks outpatient, and the probability of inpatients, were −0.006 and −0.007, respectively. There were substantial differences in the health service utilization between rural migrant workers with NCMS in the county/district and rural migrant workers with NCMS across the county/district. Our results illustrated the inequity from the differences on basis of characteristic effect and the discrimination effect. Our studies clarified that health service needs of should be fully considered, contributing to a more reliable understanding of the health service utilization of rural migrant workers.
A Cluster-Randomised Crossover Pilot Feasibility Study of a Multicomponent Intervention to Reduce Occupational Sedentary Behaviour in Professional Male Employees
Authors: Nicolson Gail Helena , Hayes Catherine B. , Darker Catherine D.
Published: September 2021

Professional male office employees have been identified as those most at risk of prolonged sedentary time, which is associated with many long-term adverse health conditions. The aim of the study was to assess the acceptability and feasibility of a gender-sensitive multicomponent intervention, guided by the socio-ecological model, to reduce occupational sedentary behaviour by increasing physical activity in professional men. The main elements of the intervention comprised: a Garmin watch with associated web-based platform/smartphone application, an under-desk pedal machine, and management participation and support. A cluster-randomised crossover pilot feasibility trial recruiting professional males was conducted in two workplaces. Mixed methods were used to assess the primary outcomes of recruitment, retention, and acceptability and feasibility of the intervention. Secondary outcomes included objectively measured sedentary behaviour, standing and physical activity. Focus groups were used to explore the acceptability of the intervention in a real-world setting. Twenty-two participants were recruited (mean age 42.9 years (SD 11.0)). Recruitment and retention rates were 73.3% and 95%, respectively. Overall, participants found the intervention acceptable and feasible, and expressed enjoyment of the intervention, however desk set-up issues with the pedal devices were noted. The manual recording of the pedalling bouts was overly burdensome. Preliminary data indicate that the intervention may reduce occupational sedentary behaviour and increase physical activity. This intervention should be further tested in a definitive trial following consideration of the findings of this pilot feasibility trial.
Multimodality Imaging of the Anatomy of Tricuspid Valve
Authors: Schlossbauer Susanne Anna , Faletra Francesco Fulvio , Paiocchi Vera Lucia , Leo Laura Anna , Franciosi Giorgio , Bonanni Michela , Angelini Gianmarco , Pavon Anna Giulia , Ferrari Enrico , Ho Siew Yen , Hahn Rebecca T.
Published: September 2021

Even though the tricuspid valve is no longer “forgotten”, it still remains poorly understood. In this review, we focus on some controversial and still unclear aspects of tricuspid anatomy as illustrated by noninvasive imaging techniques. In particular, we discuss the anatomical architecture of the so-called tricuspid annulus with its two components (i.e., the mural and the septal annulus), emphasizing the absence of any fibrous “ring” around the right atrioventricular junction. Then we discussed the extreme variability in number and size of leaflets (from two to six), highlighting the peculiarities of the septal leaflet as part of the septal atrioventricular junction (crux cordis). Finally, we describe the similarities and differences between the tricuspid and mitral valve, suggesting a novel terminology for tricuspid leaflets.
Assessment of Anxiety, Depression, Attitude, and Coping Strategies of the Egyptian Population during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Shehata Ghaydaa A. , Gabra Romany , Eltellawy Sara , Elsayed Mohamed , Gaber Dina Elsayed , Elshabrawy Hatem A.
Published: September 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed several challenges on different populations all around the world, with stress being identified as one of the major challenges. This study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19-induced stress on the prevalence and severity of anxiety and/or depression, factors that predict the development of anxiety and/or depression, and coping strategies in the Egyptian population during the COVID 19 outbreak. Subjects and Methods: This is an observational cross-sectional online study. The questionnaire of our study included five sections: demographic and clinical data, attitude towards COVID-19, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and a specifically prepared and standardized Arabic version of a coping strategies scale. The questionnaire was uploaded on 20 May 2020 at 1 p.m. and closed on 7 July 2020 at 8 a.m. Results: The study questionnaire was completed by 283 Egyptians, with mean age 34.81 ± 11.36 years, of which 17% had been infected with COVID-19. The responses showed that 62.9% had moderate anxiety, whereas 12.4% had severe anxiety. Moreover, 13.8% had moderate depression, and 14.1% had severe depression. Our study demonstrated that age, mental status, and being infected with COVID-19 correlated with depression, whereas only age correlated with anxiety. Interestingly, our data showed that anxiety and depression were negatively correlated with some coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusions: Pandemics, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, imposes stress on individuals, which leads to the development of anxiety and/or depression. Several factors, which could be population-dependent, may help predict the development of anxiety or depression. We show the factors correlated with depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Egyptian population. Furthermore, certain personal coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic are negatively correlated with anxiety and depression. Therefore, our study sheds light on the importance of studying factors in each population that can lead to pandemic-induced psychological complications and those that can relieve such complications.
A Complete Digital Workflow for Planning, Simulation, and Evaluation in Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Lee Sang-Jeong , Yoo Ji-Yong , Woo Sang-Yoon , Yang Hoon Joo , Kim Jo-eun , Huh Kyung-Hoe , Lee Sam-Sun , Heo Min-Suk , Hwang Soon Jung , Yi Won-Jin
Published: September 2021

The purpose of this study was to develop a complete digital workflow for planning, simulation, and evaluation for orthognathic surgery based on 3D digital natural head position reproduction, a cloud-based collaboration platform, and 3D landmark-based evaluation. We included 24 patients who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Surgeons and engineers could share the massive image data immediately and conveniently and collaborate closely in surgical planning and simulation using a cloud-based platform. The digital surgical splint could be optimized for a specific patient before or after the physical fabrication of 3D printing splints through close collaboration. The surgical accuracy was evaluated comprehensively via the translational (linear) and rotational (angular) discrepancies between identical 3D landmarks on the simulation and postoperative computed tomography (CT) models. The means of the absolute linear discrepancy at eight tooth landmarks were 0.61 ± 0.55, 0.86 ± 0.68, and 1.00 ± 0.79 mm in left–right, advance–setback, and impaction–elongation directions, respectively, and 1.67 mm in the root mean square direction. The linear discrepancy in the left–right direction was significantly different from the other two directions as shown by analysis of variance (ANOVA, p < 0.05). The means of the absolute angular discrepancies were 1.43 ± 1.06°, 0.50 ± 0.31°, and 0.58 ± 0.41° in the pitch, roll, and yaw orientations, respectively. The angular discrepancy in the pitch orientation was significantly different from the other two orientations (ANOVA, p < 0.05). The complete digital workflow that we developed for orthognathic patients provides efficient and streamlined procedures for orthognathic surgery and shows high surgical accuracy with efficient image data sharing and close collaboration.
Analysis of Patient Factors Affecting In Vitro Characteristics of Subacromial Bursal Connective Tissue Progenitor Cells during Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Morikawa Daichi , Hawthorne Benjamin C. , McCarthy Mary Beth R. , Bellas Nicholas , Johnson Jeremiah D. , Trudeau Maxwell T. , Murphy Kyle V. , Mancini Michael R. , LeVasseur Matthew R. , Cote Mark P. , Mazzocca Augustus D.
Published: September 2021

Unsatisfactory failure rates following rotator cuff (RC) repair have led orthopaedic surgeons to explore biological augmentation of the healing enthesis. The subacromial bursa (SB) contains abundant connective tissue progenitor cells (CTPs) that may aid in this process. The purpose of the study was to investigate the influence of patient demographics and tear characteristics on the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) and nucleated cell count (NCC) of SB-derived CTPs. In this study, we harvested SB tissue over the supraspinatus tendon and muscle in 19 patients during arthroscopic RC repair. NCC of each sample was analyzed on the day of the procedure. After 14 days, CFUs were evaluated under a microscope. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient was then used to determine the relationship between CFUs or NCC and patient demographics or tear characteristics. The study found no significant correlation between patient demographics and the number of CFUs or NCC of CTPs derived from the SB (p > 0.05). The study did significantly observe that increased tear size was negatively correlated with the number of CFUs (p < 0.05). These results indicated that increased tear size, but not patient demographics, may influence the viability of CTPs and should be considered when augmenting RCrepairs with SB.
Metabolic Effects of Gastrectomy and Duodenal Bypass in Early Gastric Cancer Patients with T2DM: A Prospective Single-Center Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Young Ki , Lee Eun Kyung , Lee You Jin , Eom Bang Wool , Yoon Hong Man , Kim Young-Il , Cho Soo Jeong , Lee Jong Yeul , Kim Chan Gyoo , Kong Sun-Young , Yoo Min Kyong , Hwangbo Yul , Kim Young-Woo , Choi Il Ju , Kim Hak Jin , Kwak Mi Hyang , Ryu Keun Won
Published: September 2021

We evaluated the metabolic effects of gastrectomies and endoscopic submucosal dissections (ESDs) in early gastric cancer (EGC) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Forty-one EGC patients with T2DM undergoing gastrectomy or ESD were prospectively evaluated. Metabolic parameters in the patients who underwent gastrectomy with and without a duodenal bypass (groups 1 and 2, n = 24 and n = 5, respectively) were compared with those in patients who underwent ESD (control, n = 12). After 1 year, the proportions of improved/equivocal/worsened glycemic control were 62.5%/29.2%/8.3% in group 1, 40.0%/60.0%/0.0% in group 2, and 16.7%/50.0%/33.3% in the controls, respectively (p = 0.046). The multivariable ordered logistic regression analysis results showed that both groups had better 1-year glycemic control. Groups 1 and 2 showed a significant reduction in postprandial glucose (−97.9 and −67.8 mg/dL), body mass index (−2.1 and −2.3 kg/m2), and glycosylated hemoglobin (group 1 only, −0.5% point) (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, improvements in group 1 were more prominent when preoperative leptin levels were high (p for interaction < 0.05). Metabolic improvements in both groups were also observed for insulin resistance, leptin, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and resistin. Gastrectomy improved glycemic control and various metabolic parameters in EGC patients with T2DM. Patients with high leptin levels may experience greater metabolic benefits from gastrectomy with duodenal bypass.
Genetic Factors of Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: Consequences on Patients’ and Offspring Health
Authors: Krausz Csilla , Cioppi Francesca
Published: September 2021

Non-Obstructive Azoospermia (NOA) affects about 1% of men in the general population and is characterized by clinical heterogeneity implying the involvement of several different acquired and genetic factors. NOA men are at higher risk to be carriers of known genetic anomalies such as karyotype abnormalities and Y-chromosome microdeletions in respect to oligo-normozoospermic men. In recent years, a growing number of novel monogenic causes have been identified through Whole Exome Sequencing (WES). Genetic testing is useful for diagnostic and pre-TESE prognostic purposes as well as for its potential relevance for general health. Several epidemiological observations show a link between azoospermia and higher morbidity and mortality rate, suggesting a common etiology for NOA and some chronic diseases, including cancer. Since on average 50% of NOA patients has a positive TESE outcome, the identification of genetic factors in NOA patients has relevance also to the offspring’s health. Although still debated, the observed increased risk of certain neurodevelopmental disorders, as well as impaired cardiometabolic and reproductive health profile in children conceived with ICSI from NOA fathers may indicate the involvement of transmissible genetic factors. This review provides an update on the reproductive and general health consequences of known genetic factors causing NOA, including offspring’s health.
A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Prospective Study to Assess Efficacy of Laparoscopic Electrochemotherapy in the Treatment of Locally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Izzo Francesco , Granata Vincenza , Fusco Roberta , D’Alessio Valeria , Petrillo Antonella , Lastoria Secondo , Piccirillo Mauro , Albino Vittorio , Belli Andrea , Nasti Guglielmo , Avallone Antonio , Patrone Renato , Grassi Francesca , Leongito Maddalena , Palaia Raffaele
Published: September 2021

Background: Eighty percent of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma present a locally advanced or metastatic disease at diagnosis and are not eligible for surgery if not with palliative intent. In cases of locally advanced disease (LAPC), the combination of chemo and radiotherapy is the only therapeutic option and correlates with a median survival of 15 months (10 months without treatment), with partial remission of disease in 50% of cases. The feasibility and safety of Electrochemotherapy (ECT) have been demonstrated in the treatment of deep tumors. Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of electrochemotherapy (ECT) followed by conventional systemic treatment compared to the only conventional systemic treatment in LAPC in terms of objective response and overall survival. Patients and Methods: This study is a phase IIb prospective multicenter randomized controlled trial with two arms. The study will include 90 patients: 45 in the control group and 45 in the experimental group. Patients with LAPC in the control arm will receive conventional chemotherapy (FOLFOXIRI). Patients with LAPC in the experimental arm will be subjected to Electrochemotherapy and subsequently to FOLFOXIRI. The objective response at 30, 90, and 180 days from treatment will be based on the computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR), and positron emission tomography/CT response (PET/CT). The objective long-term treatment response will be evaluated with the modified response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (m-RECIST) criteria, which will take into account the difference in vascularization, determined by the images obtained by CT and MR of the tumor treated before and after ECT. Conclusions: Not resectable liver metastasis, pancreatic tumors, and locally advanced renal carcinomas can be treated with laparoscopic electrodes. ECT could represent an effective therapeutic option for patients not eligible for surgery susceptible to be managed only with palliative therapies.
Deep Features for Training Support Vector Machines
Authors: Nanni Loris , Ghidoni Stefano , Brahnam Sheryl
Published: September 2021

Features play a crucial role in computer vision. Initially designed to detect salient elements by means of handcrafted algorithms, features now are often learned using different layers in convolutional neural networks (CNNs). This paper develops a generic computer vision system based on features extracted from trained CNNs. Multiple learned features are combined into a single structure to work on different image classification tasks. The proposed system was derived by testing several approaches for extracting features from the inner layers of CNNs and using them as inputs to support vector machines that are then combined by sum rule. Several dimensionality reduction techniques were tested for reducing the high dimensionality of the inner layers so that they can work with SVMs. The empirically derived generic vision system based on applying a discrete cosine transform (DCT) separately to each channel is shown to significantly boost the performance of standard CNNs across a large and diverse collection of image data sets. In addition, an ensemble of different topologies taking the same DCT approach and combined with global mean thresholding pooling obtained state-of-the-art results on a benchmark image virus data set.
An Improved Failure Risk Assessment Method for Bilge System of the Large Luxury Cruise Ship under Fire Accident Conditions
Authors: Liu Zhongzhi , Guo Zhiwei , Li Yongqing , Zhu Libao , Yuan Chengqing
Published: September 2021

This paper develops an improved failure risk assessment method and discusses the risk control measures for a large luxury cruise ship’s bilge system under fire accident conditions. The proposed method incorporates an expert weight calculation model and a risk coefficient calculation model. The expert weight calculation model considers the differences in experts’ expertise levels (i.e., qualification level, decision-making capacity, and decision-making preference). Further, the method integrates the evaluations resulting from fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and extended fuzzy technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) of different experts. The risk coefficient (RC) calculation model utilizes a three-dimensional continuous matrix, serving to determine the risk factors’ ratings. The influences of the expert weight and RC calculation models on the proposed method’s performance are studied through a sensitivity analysis. The work demonstrates that the proposed method minimizes the issues encountered when using conventional methods for determining risk ratings. Finally, the results of an empirical study comprising ten experts evaluating the VISTA cruise ship’s bilge system prove the applicability of the proposed method and offer practical design guidelines to meet the regulations for Safe Return to Port (SRtP).
Reforestation of Degraded Landscapes in Micronesia
Authors: Friday James B. , Haase Diane L. , Estoy Ruddy , Manglona James , Talken Ryan
Published: September 2021

Wildfires on degraded grasslands cause extensive soil erosion and cause environmental and economic damage worldwide. We conducted fertilizer, lime, and mulch trials to improve growth of trees planted in acid soils in degraded grasslands on the Micronesian islands of Guam, Rota, and Yap. Fertilizer application had no effect on height growth of Acacia auriculiformis seedlings on a Mollisol on Guam while lime application had a small but significant positive effect on height growth. Fertilizer application had a significant positive effect on height growth of Acacia confusa seedlings planted on an Oxisol on Rota but lime had no effect. Mulch application increased height growth of Swietenia macrophylla seedlings planted on an Oxisol on Yap but lime application had no effect. Collaboration between university researchers and local forestry agencies can improve reforestation success, but researchers need to consider local capabilities and local knowledge.
Laparoscopy in Emergency: Why Not? Advantages of Laparoscopy in Major Emergency: A Review
Authors: Ietto Giuseppe , Amico Francesco , Pettinato Giuseppe , Iori Valentina , Carcano Giulio
Published: September 2021

A laparoscopic approach is suggested with the highest grade of recommendation for acute cholecystitis, perforated gastroduodenal ulcers, acute appendicitis, gynaecological disorders, and non-specific abdominal pain (NSAP). To date, the main qualities of laparoscopy for these acute surgical scenarios are clearly stated: quicker surgery, faster recovery and shorter hospital stay. For the remaining surgical emergencies, as well as for abdominal trauma, the role of laparoscopy is still a matter of debate. Patients might benefit from a laparoscopic approach only if performed by experienced teams and surgeons which guarantee a high standard of care. More precisely, laparoscopy can limit damage to the tissue and could be effective for the reduction of the overall amount of cell debris, which is a result of the intensity with which the immune system reacts to the injury and the following symptomatology. In fact, these fragments act as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). DAMPs, as well as pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), are recognised by both surface and intracellular receptors of the immune cells and activate the cascade which, in critically ill surgical patients, is responsible for a deranged response. This may result in the development of progressive and multiple organ dysfunctions, manifesting with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), coagulopathy, liver dysfunction and renal failure. In conclusion, none of the emergency surgical scenarios preclude laparoscopy, provided that the surgical tactic could ensure sufficient cleaning of the abdomen in addition to resolving the initial tissue damage caused by the “trauma”.
Localization of Viral Epitope-Specific CD8 T Cells during Cytomegalovirus Latency in the Lungs and Recruitment to Lung Parenchyma by Airway Challenge Infection
Authors: Blaum Franziska , Lukas Dominika , Reddehase Matthias J. , Lemmermann Niels A. W.
Published: September 2021

Interstitial pneumonia is a life-threatening clinical manifestation of cytomegalovirus infection in recipients of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). The mouse model of experimental HCT and infection with murine cytomegalovirus revealed that reconstitution of virus-specific CD8+ T cells is critical for resolving productive lung infection. CD8+ T-cell infiltrates persisted in the lungs after the establishment of latent infection. A subset defined by the phenotype KLRG1+CD62L− expanded over time, a phenomenon known as memory inflation (MI). Here we studied the localization of these inflationary T effector-memory cells (iTEM) by comparing their frequencies in the intravascular and transmigration compartments, the IVC and TMC, respectively, with their frequency in the extravascular compartment (EVC), the alveolar epithelium. Frequencies of viral epitope-specific iTEM were comparable in the IVC and TMC but were reduced in the EVC, corresponding to an increase in KLRG1−CD62L− conventional T effector-memory cells (cTEM) and a decrease in functional IFNγ+CD8+ T cells. As maintained expression of KLRG1 requires stimulation by antigen, we conclude that iTEM lose KLRG1 and convert to cTEM after transmigration into the EVC because pneumocytes are not latently infected and, therefore, do not express antigens. Accordingly, antigen re-expression upon airway challenge infection recruited virus-specific CD8+ T cells to TMC and EVC.
Calibration of Partial Safety Factors of Sample Masonry Structures
Authors: Zięba Joanna , Skrzypczak Izabela , Buda-Ożóg Lidia
Published: September 2021

Technological progress in masonry structures has resulted in the creation of competitive solutions, which force the need for an ever deeper recognition of this type of structure. Masonry is a composite with heterogeneous strength properties. Therefore, the most appropriate way to accurately describe the behavior of the masonry structure under the influence of the working load are experimental research and their statistical and probabilistic analysis. This article presents a series of experimental tests carried out on real masonry structures. The results of the experiments were subjected to static evaluation, determining the most important parameter in the probabilistic analysis—the coefficient of variability of strength. The variability obtained in the experimental studies was used to determine the safety of the structure in the probabilistic method. Achieved values of coefficients of variation and safety coefficients proved to be satisfactory and adequate to the emerging technological progress in the production and embedding of masonry components.
In Vitro Investigation on Degradable Mg-Based Biomaterial under the Impact of the Serum Glycoprotein Fetuin
Authors: Helmholz Heike , Adejube Blessing , Luthringer-Feyerabend Bérengère , Willumeit-Römer Regine
Published: September 2021

Biomedical applications of magnesium (Mg) and its alloys are generally dependent on their degradation behavior in vivo. Despite its attractive properties, which make Mg suitable for orthopedic applications, the in vivo material-tissue (bone, blood, and lymph tissues) interaction is not yet fully understood. To investigate the influence of major serum proteins on the degradation, this study focused on fetuin, which is one of the major non-collagenous plasma proteins and which is essential for biomineralization. This study used a physiological setup to investigate the influence of fetuin on the degradation behavior of pure Mg in the presence of calcium (Ca). Extruded pure Mg samples were immersed under cell culture conditions in Hank’s balanced salt solution (HBSS) under defined Ca regimes. The results showed a significant decrease in the degradation rate (DR) when both fetuin and Ca were present in an immersion medium as compared to media where they were not simultaneously present. A possible reason for this behavior was the forming of a dense, protein-degradation products protection barrier at the material surface. Furthermore, the limitation of freely available Ca might be a reason for a decreased degradation. The cultivation of primary osteoblasts (pOB) was possible at the fetuin-coated Mg-surface without additional serum supplementation.
Development of Alternative Method for Manufacturing Structural Zirconium Elements for Nuclear Engineering
Authors: Ozhmegov Kirill , Kawalek Anna , Garbiec Dariusz , Dyja Henryk , Arbuz Alexandr
Published: September 2021

Zirconium is used as a structural material for use in aggressive environments, including the core of nuclear reactors. The traditional technology of manufacturing the structural elements of zirconium nuclear reactors is characterized by a long technological process and a significant amount of waste in the form of metal shavings. The paper presents the results of an alternative technology, spark plasma sintering, for manufacturing zirconium products. A complex of microstructural and mechanical studies of the obtained samples was carried out according to the ASTMB-351 standard. The sintering of zirconium powder and options for subsequent processing by various methods, including non-standard ones such as radial shear rolling, are justified.