bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of eggs after feed supplements with silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) and black fly larvae (Hermetia illucens)
Authors: Lalev Mitko , Vlahova-Vangelova Desislava B. , Kolev Nikolay D.
Published: February 2022

The quality of hen eggs after partial replacement (7%) of soybean meal with silkworm pupae flour (Bombyx mori) and black soldier fly larvae flour (Hermetia illucens) was studied. Three groups of eggs were examined -C (control, standard feed), K (7% pupae), L (7% larvae flour). Both replacements in feed didn’t have a significant effect on the pH of egg white and yolk (p > 0.05). Lightness (L*) of the egg white KW decreased, and it’s a* values increased (p < 0.05). In egg white LW, was found an opposite effect. A decrease in the yellowness (b*) was found in egg white KW (p < 0.05). The use of fortified feed with black soldier fly larvae significantly reduces the redness (a*) and yellowness (b*) of the colour in the yolk LY. After the addition of larvae to the feed, the b* value increased by about 10% (p < 0.05). The share of oleic (C18:1) and linoleic acid (C18:2) in the yolk (KY) increases, while the yolks of group L had the highest content of linolenic acid (C18:3). The partial replacement of soybean meal with both black soldier fly larvae and silkworm pupae increases the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids in the examined eggs.
In vitro simulation of the gastrointestinal tract environment and its interaction with probiotic lactobacilli
Authors: Ilyazova Ayla , Blazheva Denica , Slavchev Aleksandar , Krastanov Albert
Published: February 2022

The harshest conditions of the human gastrointestinal tract were simulated in order to study probiotic bacteria in their intended environment. Eight Lactobacillus strains were cultivated in MRS broth with added bile in different concentrations and their growth was monitored as optical density. The gathered data was used to determine the MIC of bile for each strain. The recovery of the strains in MRS broth after 3 h in simulated gastric juice solution (pH 1.8, 5000 U/cm3 pepsin) was investigated. Lactobacillus gasseri S20 exhibited the best survival rate and reached OD 600 0,490, while Lactobacillus acidophilus S11 could not survive the conditions of the stomach (OD 600 0,076).
Sorption isotherms of parsnip
Authors: Kiryakov Ivan , Georgieva Mariya , Atanasov Dimitar , Arabadzhieva Nadya
Published: February 2022

Parsnip is a root that has a number of useful nutrients. For this reason, in recent years it has been rehabilitated and is widely used in dried form in the food industry and for medicinal purposes. Knowledge of its equilibrium characteristics of the products has an important practical significance, which is expressed in the selection of a suitable drying regime, selection of optimal storage conditions, determination of the energy and the form of connection of water with the material, etc. Therefore, an experimental study was performed to determine the equilibrium moisture content of parsnip and equations describing the sorption and desorption isotherms of parsnip at a temperature of 20°C were derived. Its equilibrium moisture content at higher temperatures (20, 40 and 60°C) was determined theoretically by the method of Pass and Slepchenko. All results are summarized in analytical, graphical and tabular form.
The Coulomb’sEssaiLegacy in Soil Mechanics
Authors: Salençon Jean
Published: February 2022

In 1973, in Moscow, Professor Jean Kerisel delivered a special opening lecture to the 8th International Conference of Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering (Kerisel, 1973). It was devoted to celebrating Charles-Augustin Coulomb’s work on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the publication of the famousEssai sur une application des règles de Maximis et de Minimis à quelques Problèmes de Statique relatifs à l’Architecture(Coulomb, 1773). This Memoir stands as a most popular landmark text in civil and construction engineering and an inescapable reference in theoretical soil mechanics and geotechnical engineering textbooks. It has been the subject of a great many valuable analyses by distinguished scholars dealing either with soil mechanics (e.g., Schofield, 1998) or the stability of vaults, or both topics (e.g., Heyman, 1972). The present contribution, which takes advantage of the approaching 250th anniversary of the Essai, only intends to sketch out, recall and comment some seminal concepts introduced and formalised by Coulomb that are still retained in theoretical soil mechanics.
Air biking as a new way for stress testing
Authors: Schlegel Petr , Křehký Adam , Hiblbauer Jan , Faltys Vojtěch
Published: February 2022

Stress testing is an integral part of assessing cardiorespiratory fitness. Air bike is a cardio machine that has lately become quite popular among both professional athletes and general public. It is a type of stationary bike equipped with two handles allowing also upper-body activity. The aim of this study was to verify efficiency of stress ramp test to failure using air bike and to assess correlation between air bike performance and strength, endurance, and anthropometric parameters. The experimental group comprised 20 physically active individuals (average age: 22.1). The spiroergometric test protocol on air bike consisted of 3-minutes levels with no break. The testing led to high physiological values (HRmax = 189.7 bpm, RERmax: 1.12), the average test duration was 14 minutes. The most statistically significant connection (p = 0.01) with air bike performance was identified in fat-free mass (FFM) (0.86), back squat (0.83), bench press (0.84), 2 km row (−0.85). A less significant connection was discovered with VO2peak (0.68). Air bike was proven a suitable method for stress testing. Air bike performance depends mostly on FFM and strength parameters. Due to its specific usage (lower cadence, more strength focused work) that differs from running or stationary bike, it can be a suitable alternative for certain individuals or specific groups.
Erfahrungen nach über 1500 Kurzdraht-ERCPs – Welche Argumente gibt es noch für den Langdraht?
Authors: Kishta Jorgert , Bojarski Christian
Published: February 2022

Kurzdrahtsysteme sind seit über 20 Jahren verfügbar. Trotz vieler Vorteile haben sie sich jedoch in Deutschland bis heute nicht flächendeckend durchsetzen können. Warum dies so ist, wollen die Autoren herausfinden und berichten über ihre Erfahrungen mit inzwischen über 1500 durchgeführten Kurzdraht-ERCPs in den letzten drei Jahren.
Design of a Prospective Study on Pharmacokinetic-Guided Dosing of Prophylactic Factor Replacement in Hemophilia A and B (OPTI-CLOT TARGET Study)
Authors: Goedhart Tine M.H.J. , Bukkems Laura H. , Coppens Michiel , Fijnvandraat Karin J. , Schols Saskia E.M. , Schutgens Roger E.G. , Eikenboom Jeroen , Heubel-Moenen Floor C.J.I. , Ypma Paula F. , Nieuwenhuizen L. , Meijer K. , Leebeek Frank W. G. , Mathôt Ron A.A. , Cnossen Marjon H.
Published: February 2022

In resource-rich countries, almost all severe hemophilia patients receive prophylactic replacement therapy with factor concentrates to prevent spontaneous bleeding in joints and muscles to decrease the development of arthropathy and risk of long-term disability. Pharmacokinetic (PK)-guided dosing can be applied to individualize factor replacement therapy, as interindividual differences in PK parameters influence factor VIII (FVIII) and FIX activity levels. PK-guided dosing may therefore lead to more optimal safeguarding of FVIII/FIX levels during prophylaxis and on demand treatment. The OPTI-CLOT TARGET study is a multicenter, nonrandomized, prospective cohort study that aims to investigate the reliability and feasibility of PK-guided prophylactic dosing of factor concentrates in hemophilia-A and -B patients in daily clinical practice. At least 50 patients of all ages on prophylactic treatment using standard half-life (SHL) and extended half-life (EHL) factor concentrates will be included during 9 months and will receive PK-guided treatment. As primary endpoint, a minimum of four FVIII/FIX levels will be compared with FVIII/FIX levels as predicted by Bayesian forecasting. Secondary endpoints are the association of FVIII and FIX levels with bleeding episodes and physical activity, expectations and experiences, economic analyses, and optimization of population PK models. This study will lead to more insight in the reliability and feasibility of PK-guided dosing in hemophilia patients. Moreover, it will contribute to personalization of treatment by greater knowledge of dosing regimens needed to prevent and treat bleeding in the individual patient and provide evidence to more clearly associate factor activity levels with bleeding risk.
Bibliometric Analysis of Publication Activity in the Field of GIANT Cell Arteritis: A SCOPUS-based Study
Authors: Bareeqa Syeda Beenish , Samar Syeda Sana , Kamal Sufiyan , Khan Fizza Zaman , Shakeel Hafsa , Ali Kanza , Humayun Syed Hasham , Ahmed Syed Ijlal
Published: February 2022

Objective Giant cell arthritis (GCA) is a type of vasculitis which is more common in female gender and is closely associated with Polymyalgia rheumatic. One of its important complication include visual impairment. The burden of disease is expected to be very high by 2050 and there is a need to compile the data on most influential studies on GCA to define future strategy to deal with this dangerous disease. Bibliometrics is a statistical analysis of published literature that reflects the value and impact of a particular publication within the specific field. Aim of our study is identify the most significant contributors and their quality of contribution in the field.

Method We conducted this analysis utilizing SCOPUS database using different related MeSH terms. After a detailed screening, the list of top-50 articles were presented in the results in descending order of their ranks on the basis of their total number of citation. Most of our data comprises of publications from 1971–2012.

Result The top-50 most cited articles on GCA were published between 1971 and 2012 with the median number of citations 274 ranging from 598–187. Annals of Internal Medicine was the top ranked journal with 13 publications from the list. The highly ranked author based on the number of publications was Hunder GG (20 publications) with h-index of 40, retaining affiliation with Mayo Clinic, Rochester, United States. Mayo Clinic was the most frequently mentioned institute among the affiliations. The United States was found to be the most productive country rendering most of the articles (64%).

Conclusion Our bibliometric analysis on Giant cell arteritis identifies the information which may direct future research contributions, identify field experts, guide researchers to fill knowledge gaps, and assist in research fund allocation.
Effect of Different Ceramic Materials on Fatigue Resistance and Stress Distribution in Upper Canines with Palatal Veneers
Authors: Tanaka Isabela Vitelli , Tribst Joao Paulo Mendes , Silva-Concilio Lais Regiane , Bottino Marco Antonio
Published: February 2022

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate, by means of a fatigue life test, different ceramic materials used in palatal veneers to restore the canine guidance.

Materials and Methods Forty-five standardized anatomical preparations were made in extracted healthy human canines with 1.2 uniform thickness. Samples were scanned, restorations were designed and milled in polymer-infiltrated ceramic network (PICN, Vita Enamic), zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS, Vita Suprinity), and high translucent yttrium oxide-stabilized tetragonal zirconia (YZHT, Vita YZHT). Dental preparations were etched, restorations were processed according to the manufacturers' recommendations, and adhesively cemented. Then, three samples of each group were tested with load-to-fracture to determine the fatigue parameters. In addition, the palatal veneers stresses were evaluated using numerical models through finite element analysis.

Results The mean of the monotonic test for PICN, ZLS, and YZHT was 674.18 N, 560.5 N, and 918.98 N, respectively. The StepWise test was performed until specimen fracture or until suspension of the test after 1.2 × 106 cycles. Regarding survival, using the Kaplan–Meier method, PICN presented results for the mean and median of 245.21 N and 225 N, respectively; ZLS had an average of 175.76 N and a median of 168 N, and YZHT with an average of 383.30 N and a median of 366 N. Regarding the Weibull method, PICN showed results of 5.43 β and 264 η for form and scale, respectively; ZLS had 36.14 β for form and 380.67 η for scale; and YZHT presented 4.95 β for form and 417.38 η for scale. The highest stress value was calculated for YZHT, ZLS, and PICN, respectively.

Conclusions It was possible to conclude that all tested materials have the possibility of being used for rehabilitation of upper canines' palatal surface.
Prognostic Factors and Management of Colorectal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
Authors: Reis Nuno Rafael Pereira , Barbosa Laura Elisabete Ribeiro
Published: February 2022

Introduction The gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. Even though it can be found in any location of the digestive tract, the colorectal GIST is rare. With this study, we aim to review the current knowledge regarding the prognosis and management of colorectal GIST.

Methods A literature search was conducted in PubMed, and 717 articles were collected. After analyzing these studies, 60 articles were selected to use in this review.

Results The mitotic index, as well as tumor size and location were identified as good discriminators of prognosis in various studies. Surgery remains the only curative therapy for potentially resectable tumors. However, even after surgical resection, some patients develop disease recurrence and metastasis, especially those with high-risk tumors. Therefore, surgical resection alone might be inadequate for the management of all colorectal GISTs. The discovery of GIST's molecular pathway led to a shift in its therapy, insofar as tyrosine kinase inhibitors became part of the treatment schemes for this tumor, revolutionizing the treatment's outcome and prognosis.

Discussion/Conclusion The controversy concerning colorectal GIST prognosis and treatment can be, in part, attributed to the limited number of studies in the literature. In this review, we gathered the most recent knowledge about the prognosis and management of GIST in this rare location and propose two algorithms for its approach. Lastly, we highlight the importance of an individualized approach in the setting of a multidisciplinary team.
Reconstruction of Lower Eyelid with Nasolabial Flap for Anterior Lamella and Turnover Flap for Posterior Lamella
Authors: Malviya Vikas , Goyal Sakshi , Bansal Vishal
Published: February 2022

Reconstruction of full-thickness eyelid defects is done to provide a mobile lid with corneal protection, having good aesthetic quality, and acceptable donor site morbidity. Various flap procedures have been described and used for the lower eyelid reconstruction; however, the nasolabial flap is rarely employed. It is a random pattern cutaneous flap with redundant blood supply from the perforating branches of the facial and angular arteries and can be used as an inferiorly or superiorly based flap. Here, we aim to present the clinical results of using the superiorly based nasolabial island flap for reconstruction of anterior lamella and turnover/hinge flap of infraorbital skin and palpebral conjunctiva with support of conchal cartilage for reconstruction of posterior lamella for lower eyelid defect. To our best knowledge, this reconstructive combination of flaps has not been described previously for total and full-thickness posttraumatic defect of lower eyelid.
Highly sensitive and stretchable piezoelectric strain sensor enabled wearable devices for real-time monitoring of respiratory and heartbeat simultaneously
Authors: Ji Zhenjie , Zhang Menglun
Published: February 2022

The World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The demand for devices or systems to diagnose and track COVID-19 infections noninvasively not only in hospitals but also in home settings has led to increased interest in consumer-grade wearables. A common symptom of COVID-19 is dyspnea, which may manifest as an increase in respiratory and heart rates. In this paper, a novel piezoelectric strain sensor is presented for real-time monitoring of respiratory and heartbeat signals. A highly sensitive and stretchable piezoelectric strain sensor is fabricated using a piezoelectric film with a serpentine layout. The thickness of the patterned PVDF flexible piezoelectric strain sensor is only 168 μm, and the voltage sensitivity reaches 0.97 mV/μɛ. The effective modulus is 13.5 MPa, which allows the device to fit to the skin and detect the small strain exhibited by the human body. Chest vibrations are captured by the piezoelectric sensor, which produces an electrical output voltage signal conformally mapped with respiratory–cardiac activities. The separate heart activity and respiratory signals are extracted from the mixed respiratory–cardiac signal by an empirical mode decomposition data processing algorithm. By detecting vital signals such as respiratory and heart rates, the proposed device can aid early diagnosis and monitoring of respiratory diseases such as COVID-19.
A noncanonical cytochrome
c
stimulates calcium binding by PilY1 for type IVa pili formation
Authors: Herfurth Marco , Treuner-Lange Anke , Glatter Timo , Wittmaack Nadine , Hoiczyk Egbert , Pierik Antonio J. , Søgaard-Andersen Lotte
Published: February 2022

Significance

Type IVa pili (T4aP) are bacterial surface structures that function under different environmental conditions. In the machine for T4aP formation, a complex of minor pilins and PilY1 primes T4aP formation and is also present at the pilus tip mediating adhesion. Similar to several other bacterial adhesins, PilY1 depends on calcium binding for function. Here, we demonstrate that in
Myxococcus xanthus,
PilY1 at low levels of calcium depends on the accessory protein TfcP to bind calcium, thereby stabilizing the protein. TfcP is a noncanonical cytochrome
c
that does not participate in electron transport. Rather our data support that TfcP interacts transiently with PilY1 to stimulate calcium binding. In this way, TfcP expands the range of calcium levels under which T4aP functions.
Topographically organized representation of space and context in the medial prefrontal cortex
Authors: Sauer Jonas-Frederic , Folschweiller Shani , Bartos Marlene
Published: February 2022

Significance

The neocortex is composed of areas with specialized functions (e.g., sensory versus associational). Despite this functional diversity, emerging evidence suggests that the encoding of space might be a universal feature of cortical circuits. Here, we identified a gradient of spatial tuning depth along the dorsoventral axis. A complex topography of spatial tuning properties might support a division of labor among medial prefrontal cortical subnetworks to support local circuit computation relevant for the execution of context-dependent behavioral outcomes.
The effects of linguistic measures in the analysis of L2 Chinese descriptive writing
Authors: Liao Jianling
Published: February 2022

The current study investigates whether the CAF (complexity, accuracy, and fluency) analysis framework, frequently used in L2 studies of English and other languages, may effectively analyze L2 essays in Chinese, a language typologically different from English. CAF measures were examined for both their discriminative and predictive effects for L2 Chinese writing quality. The results revealed that most of the measures captured linguistic differences between lower-score and higher-score essays. Similar to findings in other L2s, more advanced L2 Chinese learners achieved syntactic complexification increasingly through phrasal features in their essays, in contrast to lower-level learners. The predictive effects of the measures for writing quality differed between lower-score and higher-score essays. T-unit length, a syntactic measure successfully analyzing Indo-European languages, did not serve as an effective predictor for L2 Chinese textual quality. The current study provides implications for both L2 writing research and L2 writing curriculum.
Effects of total pressure on carbon nanotube synthesis, independent of feed pressure
Authors: Radman Hassan , Baniadam Majid , Maghrebi Morteza , Hamed Mosavian Mohammad Taghi , Eshraghi Mohamad Javad
Published: February 2022

While the effects of partial pressure of carbon feed on the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are well documented, the effects of total pressure in the growth chamber are not well understood. To shed some light, we investigated the growth of CNTs at different total pressures and a constant partial pressure using catalytic chemical vapour deposition method. It was observed that the growth height and diameter of CNTs decreased as the total pressure increased, probably due to the dilution of carbon feed, the increase in the boundary layer thickness and the decrease in the gas diffusion coefficient. Furthermore, the growth quality of the CNTs was found to be highest at intermediate total pressures. This can provide clues as to where the best temperature concentration is for high-quality CNTs.
Narrow linewidth single mode fiber laser with double unpumped EDF Sagnac loops filter
Authors: Wan Yiqing , Gu Baoshan , Wang Sha , Zhou Shouhuan
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we proposed a narrow linewidth single longitudinal mode (SLM) fiber laser, which was realized by employing a double unpumped erbium doped fiber (EDF) Sagnac loops structure. The Sagnac loops formed self-injected fiber Bragg gratings (FBG) and helped SLM selection, while the saturable absorption in unpumped EDF was used to compress the output laser linewidth. Connecting two unpumped EDF Sagnac loops in sequence was analyzed theoretically and tested experimentally, which would lead to narrower output laser linewidth. Under a pump power of 200 mW, we obtained an output linewidth of 858 Hz and a power stability of 0.32 dB/30 min. This structure provided a simple and low-cost way of generating narrow linewidth stable SLM laser.
Photodynamic action of photosensitizers based on polycationic derivatives of synthetic bacteriochlorin against human lung cancer cells A549
Authors: Kogan E A , Meerovich G A , Karshieva S Sh , Akhlyustina E V , Makarova E A , Dalina A A , Romanishkin I D , Zharkov N V , Gonchukov S A , Angelov I P , Loschenov V B
Published: February 2022

In view of their potential in the treatment of oncological diseases, photosensitizers (PS) have been the object of active research for the last years. The applied therapeutic photodynamic method involves the activation of a PS by light at a specific wavelength. PS interacts with oxygen and catalyzes the production of singlet oxygen molecules or radical oxygen species which leads to tumor cell death. This work is devoted to the study of the effectiveness of the photodynamic action of new PSs based on polycationic derivatives of synthetic bacteriochlorin on human lung cancer cells A549. The results obtained show that these PS effectively bind to these cells, have high phototoxicity and low ‘dark’ cytotoxicity for them. Morphological and immunohistochemical studies show that photodynamic effect leads to induction of cell necrosis and apoptosis, as well as a sharp decrease in mitotic activity.
Embedding in Anisotropic Spheres
Authors: Mathias Alberto K. , Maharaj Sunil D. , Sunzu Jefta M. , Mkenyeleye Jason M.
Published: February 2022

Exact solutions to the Einstein field equations for class I spacetime symmetry in relativistic stars are generated. The symmetry provides a relation between the gravitational potentials that lead to generalized solutions of the Einstein field equations. We choose one of the gravitational potentials on a physical basis, which allows us to obtain the other gravitational potential via an embedding approach. It is therefore possible to generate a model with astrophysical significance. The model generated satisfies physical properties like stability, causality, regularity, equilibrium and energy conditions.
Preparation of Novel partially Bio-Based Thermoplastic Polyurethane / Polyacrylonitrile Electrospun Fiber Mats
Authors: Saisangtham Suchawadee , Okhawilai Manunya , Potiyaraj Pranut
Published: February 2022

The partially bio-based thermoplastic polyurethane/polyacrylonitrile electrospun fiber mats at various weight ratio was fabricated via electrospinning technique. A partially bio-based thermoplastic polyurethane was prepared from caprolactone diol and partially bio-based diisocyanate at a mole ratio of 2.1:1. Ethylene glycol was used as a chain extender. Three major effects i.e. solution concentration, distance from tip to collector and applied voltage on morphology of the obtained electrospun fiber mats were systematically investigated using a scanning electron microscope. The design of experiment, namely, Taguchi method was also applied. The morphology of the prepared electrospun fiber mats revealed continuous and smooth fibers without the formation of beads. The fiber diameters of the thermoplastic bio-based polyurethane/polyacrylonitrile were in micron size ranging from 0.2 to 1.4 μm. Moreover, the results showed that with the decrease of concentration, the fiber diameter decreased where the changes of applied voltage and distance from tip to collector resulted in negligible changes in fiber diameter. The findings can be further applied as processing conditions to meet properties requirements for the high-performance separator application.
Dextran-Based Nanoparticles for Encapsulation of Ciprofloxacin
Authors: Watcharadulyarat Natsorn , Rattanatayarom Monthira , Ruangsawasdi Nisarat , Hongdilokkul Narupat , Patikarnmonthon Nisa
Published: February 2022

Key success for regenerative endodontics is an effective removal of bacteria inside the root canal during the treatment. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is one of the triple antibiotics commonly used as the root canal medicament. However, the rapid clearance of antibiotics causes bacterial reinfection. Nanoparticles (NPs) provide an alternative approach for antibiotics delivery system to improve the drug stability and release control. In the previous study, modified dextran was successfully formed the ester linkage with vinyl decanoate via lipase-catalyzed transesterification. The amphiphilic dextran, dextran-decanoate (Dex-D), has been synthesized with the degree of substitution of 83-88% and were applied for CIP-loaded nanoparticles. The suitable technique for producing antibiotic carriers considering by size, shape, and drug encapsulation efficiency was investigated in this work. The preparation methods were compared between nanoprecipitation and solid-in-oil-in-water (s/o/w) ion pairing technique. We found that the obtained Dex-D nanoparticles had stable monodispersed with spherical shape in both techniques. However, Dex-D nanoparticles formed by s/o/w ion pairing technique provided smaller size with better encapsulation efficiency. The antimicrobial activity of CIP-loaded Dex-D nanoparticles against oral pathogens showed satisfactory outcome with the MIC equal to 0.7 μg/mL. Also, the compatibility of nanoparticles and dental stem cells was observed in this work.
Development of green materials from ENR-25/PHBV blends: Curing characteristics and mechanical performance
Authors: Tomano N , Boondamnoen O , Aumnate C , Potiyaraj P
Published: February 2022

The objective of this work was to develop green materials from epoxidized natural rubber (25% epoxidation), (ENR-25), poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate), (PHBV), and polybutadiene adducted with maleic anhydride, (PB-g-MA) as compatibilizer. The ENR-25/PHBV blends were prepared at the ratio of 100/0, 90/10, and 80/20 with 0 and 10 %wt. PB-g-MA. The blends were prepared using an internal mixer, where PHBV was first melted at a temperature of 175 °C before mixing with ENR-25 and the incorporation of a compatibilizer. The mixing of ENR-25 and PHBV was continued at a temperature of 175 °C and mixing speed of 50 rpm until it reaches the complete blending time. All ENR-25/PHBV blends were then mixed with curing agents in an internal mixer at a temperature of 50 °C. The cure characteristics were determined using a moving die rheometer (MDR). Then vulcanization proceeded in a compression molding machine. The result shows that the addition of PHBV enhanced the modulus of ENR-25 for every blend ratio with and without compatibilizer owing to the mechanical properties of PHBV. Significantly, the PB-g-MA compatibilizer successfully improved the interface adhesion between ENR-25 and PHBV and the decrease in phase size was clearly seen in the SEM images.
Upgrading of palm empty fruit bunch for solid biofuel production through hydrothermal carbonization
Authors: Suemanotham A , Attanatho L , Prasongthum N , Sisuthog W , Laosombut T , Thanmongkhon Y
Published: February 2022

In this study, palm empty fruit bunch (EFB) was upgraded into solid fuel called biochar through hydrothermal carbonization process (HTC). The experiments were performed at different temperatures of 160, 180, 200 and 240 °C for 30 min. The properties of biochar products in terms of proximate and ultimate analysis, heating value and thermal decomposition were characterized. The results indicated that hydrothermal carbonization decreased the biochar yield from 79.2% at 160 °C to 39.5% at 240 °C. As the reaction temperature increased, the fixed carbon and heating value increased due to the decreasing of volatile matter and oxygen content involving dehydration and decarboxylation reactions. The heating value increased from 19.8 MJ/kg (raw EFB) to 23.0 MJ/kg at 240 °C. The H/C and O/C atomic ratios of biochar after treated with HTC decreased from 1.52 and 0.62 (at 160 °C) to 1.09 and 0.38 (at 240 °C) as similar to low rank coal. In addition, the potassium in the feedstock was extracted and removed to the aqueous phase during HTC. The maximum potassium removal efficiency reached up to 91.8% at reaction temperature of 240 °C. The removal of potassium led to lower deposition tendency of slagging and fouling indices. The results reveal that the HTC has the potential for upgrading EFB into energy-dense and durable solid fuel for use in energy generation.
Spray-dried anthocyanins from butterfly pea flower as color indicator
Authors: Sariya Kitti , Srisawan Nunmanas , Thongsat Nilobon , Thiraphattaraphun Linda
Published: February 2022

Butterfly pea flower can be used as natural source to produce anthocyanin pigments. In this study, anthocyanin extract was prepared by using distilled water as a solvent. Then, anthocyanin extract powder was obtained from spray drying process. Maltodextrin and gum arabic were used as carrier agents for powder production. Color variations of spray-dried anthocyanins with different carrier agents in different pH buffers (pH 1-11) were observed under natural light and in the dark. Color stability was also studied under storage at day 0, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 14. In addition, color parameters, absorption maxima (λmax, nm) and absorbance were characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The results showed that spray-dried anthocyanins with maltodextrin and gum arabic can be acted as a color indicator in different pH values. Moreover, natural light, the dark condition and storage times also affected on color variations, color parameters, λmax and absorbance in both of spray-dried anthocyanins with maltodextrin and gum arabic.
Effect of temperature and time for the production of polylactic acid without initiator catalyst from lactide synthesized from ZnO powder catalyst
Authors: Nyiavuevang Beevang , Sodkampang Suttirat , Dokmaikun Saran , Thumanu Kanjana , Boontawan Apichat , Junpirom Supunnee
Published: February 2022

Polylactic acid (PLA) is a biodegradable polymer that most importance at the present due primarily to its properties as biological degradation and biocompatibility derived from renewable resources. This study investigated the role of zinc oxide powder and tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate as the catalysts for lactide and PLA synthesis, respectively. Polylactic acid was obtained by four stages: dehydration, oligomerization, depolymerization and ring opening polymerization. The catalyst was added and water was removed at the first stage then the reactions are carried out at different temperatures and reaction time on the other stages. The ratio of lactic acid and zinc oxide powder was 1000:3 for lactide synthesis, the ratio of lactide product and tin(II) 2-ethylhexanoate was 1000:4 for PLA synthesis without any initiator. The PLA products were analysed for the yield, some chemical and physical properties such as functional group, decomposition temperature, melting temperature of synthesized PLA. It is found that at reaction temperature of 160°C and reaction time for 5 h gave the highest yield PLA of 64.5% with its decomposition temperature of 311°C and melting point temperature at 152°C. There are two main mechanisms, polymerization and depolymerisation occurring in reaction and each mechanism plays a major role with respect to the reaction condition. At higher reaction temperature and longer time, the rate of depolymerisation is higher than that of polymerization leading to the lower of decomposition and melting temperature of synthesized PLA.
Quantum state transfer on the complete bipartite graph
Authors: Santos Raqueline A M
Published: February 2022

Previously it was shown that (almost) perfect state transfer can be achieved on the complete bipartite graph by a discrete-time coined quantum walk based algorithm when both the sender and receiver vertices are in the same partition of the graph and when the sender and receiver are in opposite partitions of the same size. By changing the coin operator, we analyze the state transfer problem and we show that it is still possible to achieve state transfer with high fidelity even when the sender and receiver are in different partitions with different sizes. Moreover, it is also possible to use an active switch approach using lackadaisical quantum walks where the marked vertex is switched between the sender and receiver during the algorithm.
Analysis of Combustion Characteristic in Tangentially Fired Pulverized-Coal Boiler with Tilting Burner Angle Variation using CFD
Authors: Azizah A N , Amalia R , Satrio D
Published: February 2022

One type of boiler is a boiler with tangential combustion. Tangential combustion is combusted with a burner arrangement located at each corner (corner) of the boiler, where each burner forms a certain angle to the boiler wall. Most of the tangential boilers are equipped with a tilting burner facility. An inclined burner is a facility to direct the burner to face up or down a certain angle to a horizontal line. Changes in the direction of the burner tilt angle will move to the fireball position in the furnace so that there can be changes in temperature, velocity, also species. This study was conducted to determine setting the burner tilt angle by varying the angle simulated using CFD. The data to be obtained are qualitative data in the form of contours and vectors from the distribution of temperature and velocity and quantitative data in graphs and tables. In this study, it is hoped that the ideal angle for the boiler will be obtained so that combustion in the boiler occurs efficiently.
Leveraging advances in automation to benefit the construction industry in the structural steel sector
Authors: Elhouar S , Terreno S
Published: February 2022

The global structural steel market was reported to be valued at $96 Billion in 2018, and according to some projections, it will amount to about $140 Billion by 2025. This means that the structural steel industry is expected to have a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of about 5.4% over this six-year period. Consequently, this sector is set to perform better than the construction industry as a whole, which is projected to have a CAGR of 4.2% over approximately the same period. This projection represents good news for the structural steel industry but it also magnifies some of the challenges that the industry has been facing or has faced in the past. For example, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that overall employment of ironworkers will see an 11% growth from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average growth for all occupations. On the other side of the equation, the industry is facing some challenges that may make it difficult for it to meet the projected demand. For example, there is a very well documented shortage in the construction labor force, and this shortage is already causing problems and driving construction costs upward. Moreover, there is an expectation of increased accountability towards the environment while dealing with generally larger and more complex projects. In this paper, the authors propose that increased automation may be the most effective way to solve the labor shortage problem in the steel construction sector. An overview of advancements in related automation technology is first presented, followed by an analysis of the areas of the industry that may benefit from an increased use or the introduction of automation. The authors conclude by presenting a set of recommendations for adding more automation in the production, servicing, fabrication, and erection of structural steel.
Slam and Beacon Data for Automation of Indoor Construction Progress Tracking
Authors: Marcy L , Iordanova I
Published: February 2022

Construction progress tracking and monitoring is a complex process that is crucial for the successful execution of projects and the delivery of a high-quality product to the client. However, these tasks remain mostly manual - time-consuming and error prone, which often leads to suboptimal quality, cost and schedule overruns. The present research proposes the use of an autonomous rover for the data collection from construction site. The objective is to create a hybrid data processing system using point clouds from the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) algorithm used for robot navigation, and beacons’ data integrated with BIM, to track construction progress and provide project managers with reliable information in quasireal time. The paper is composed of four parts: first, a literature review of best practices regarding the technology used for progress tracking is performed. Second, we propose a framework for automated data collection and information processing for automated progress tracking and monitoring. Third, we present a real-world case study partially implementing the framework by using data acquired by an autonomous rover and BIM, and simulate a real-time reconstruction of the construction site status. Finally, the results are discussed, and future work is identified.
Cost of supply and ventilation concepts in shield-driven tunnelling in due consideration of the engine type and drive technology
Authors: Hoffeller M
Published: February 2022

Supply logistics as a supporting sub-process of tunnel driving is significantly responsible for a smooth construction process and, thus, for the desired project success. The main task of supply logistics is to provide the required logistical goods for the tunnel-boring machine. Available are track-bound and tyre-bound systems, which are driven by conventional diesel engines or alternatively by hybrid or electric motors. A multitude of regulations set exhaust emission limits, which can only be met by sufficiently dimensioned ventilation. In particular, the use of diesel engines can result in high costs for ventilation, which must not be neglected for an economic optimization of the supply concept. In order to compare the economic efficiency of different systems, a calculation concept is presented, which shows possible economic, but also ecological and logistical advantages of the individual systems by quantifying relevant factors. The costs for the different types of vehicles are examined separately for chassis and drive train, as well as for ventilation. The information and results obtained with the calculation provide a basis for the decision-making process when choosing an optimal logistics concept. Due to the quantities of logistical goods involved, the focus is on supply logistics in shield tunnelling.
Evaluation of defect in hospital buildings
Authors: Olanrewaju A , Tan W X , Gou Z
Published: February 2022

There are many complaints and criticisms in media and research literature on defects in hospital buildings despite the consistent increase in maintenance expenditures. This research investigated the nature of defects in private hospital buildings. Primary data for the study were collected through a survey questionnaire administered to hospital building users. Based on the findings, the defects that often require frequent maintenance are leaky faucets, defective doors, defective windows, broken lights, and faulty ventilation. The major conclusion drawn from the survey was that although there are many different defects in the buildings, the urgency at which they require maintenance interventions varies. Therefore, in order to avoid value mismatch and resource misallocations, resources and attention should be directed to the defects that are more important to the users and the other should be included in the next maintenance rolling programme. Maintenance management should be implemented to achieve good maintenance, capable to meet the expected requirements of the end-user and increase building performance and reduce the maintenance backlog.
Automated extraction of attributes of IFC objects based on graph theory and SPARQL query
Authors: Xinglei X , Zhiliang M , Huanmin H , Peng X
Published: February 2022

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been widely adopted as an effective means for supporting information exchange in Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry based on unified and platform-independent standards. Among them, the Industry Foundation Classes (IFC), an ISO standard for BIM, is the most widely used one. However, due to the complexity and flexibility of IFC, the extraction of the attributes of IFC objects is a challenging process for practitioners and software developers in AEC industry, which impedes in-depth application of BIM in many cases. To solve the problem, an approach is proposed in this paper based on graph theory and SPARQL query to automate and simplify the process. The approach consists of four operators, i.e., IFC-to-OWL Convertor, P-Path Acquirer, SPARQL Query Generator, and Ontology Reasoner. IFC-to-OWL Convertor translates IFC instance model into ifcOWL instance model, which can be queried by using SPARQL. P-Path Acquirer obtains all possible Predicate Paths (P-Paths) from an object entity to an attribute entity in the graph created based on ifcOWL schema model. Then SPARQL Query Generator generates SPARQL queries for extracting attributes based on the P-Paths. Finally, the ifcOWL instance model and the SPARQL queries are input into Ontology Reasoner to query attributes of IFC objects. The approach is validated by conducting a case study. The approach contributes to the convenient application of IFC standards in AEC industry.
Comparative Evaluation of Fleet Management Software in the Greek Construction Industry
Authors: Petroutsatou Kleopatra , Ladopoulos Ilias , Vlachokostas Grigorios
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, construction companies are facing multiple difficulties on how properly and effectively manage their fleet of construction equipment. Fleet management (FM) is a feature that allows companies to avoid or minimize the risks associated with investing in equipment, efficiency, productivity, overall transportation costs, impartial compliance in legislation. FM can include a variety of functions such as equipment acquisition, maintenance, licensing, accident management, replacement, equipment tracking, health and safety management, and many others. Internationally, there have been developed many Fleet Management Software (FMS) that offer a company with several functionalities. In this research the functions of the most globally used FMS are analysed and evaluated according to their qualitative characteristics. A questionnaire was distributed among significant large construction companies and public construction institutions in Greece, in order to evaluate those characteristics. This allowed to identify their extent of use and to highlight the most important abilities that the users desire. Finally, these characteristics were ranked using the Relative Importance Weight (RIW). By this hierarchy process users’ needs are revealed, and further areas of software development are enlightened.
Financing Public-Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects through Tokenization-enabled Project Finance on Blockchain
Authors: Tian Y , Minchin R E , Petersen C , Moayed E , Adriaens P
Published: February 2022

Infrastructure is critical for enabling society to function and the economy to thrive. Unfortunately, there is an increasing mismatch between the need for infrastructure investment and available financing globally due to constraints on public resources and limited capacity to effectively leverage private sector co-financing in the current system. This research explores the integration of blockchain-enabled asset tokenization with public-private partnership (PPP) project finance to engage private sector resources and innovation to supplement limited public sector capacities and to leverage the inherent efficiencies in infrastructure financing. A conceptual framework of tokenization-enabled PPP project finance is proposed. The transactional and contractual structures of the blockchain-driven infrastructure financing system are illustrated and evaluated. It is found that the potential benefits can be summarized into three categories: better project management, improved bankability, and enhanced inclusivity.
The Bromilow Time-Cost model: a case study for the infrastructure projects in Romania
Authors: Purnus A , Bodea C N , Stoian M
Published: February 2022

The Bromilow Time-Cost model is widely applied for estimating the duration of the construction works. The application of this model requires the estimation of different model’s parameters, which are capturing the economic, social and technological differences in projects’ implementation in different regions/countries. The paper aims to develop a mathematical Time-Cost model to be applied in Romania for the road infrastructure projects, grouped into four categories: highways, road rehabilitation, road modernization and by-pass. The research carried out by the authors has as objective to confirm the existence of the correlation between the project duration and costs, and to propose a procedure to be applied by the public decision authorities in order to estimate the duration of road infrastructure contracts. Tthe estimation of the implementation time was done through three scenarios: optimistic, most likely and pessimistic. The parameters of the Bromilow Time-Cost model and the regression models were identified