bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Power of Co-Creation in the Energy Transition—DART Model in Citizen Energy Communities Projects
Authors: Ryszawska Bożena , Rozwadowska Magdalena , Ulatowska Roksana , Pierzchała Marcin , Szymański Piotr
Published: August 2021

Successful energy transformation is interconnected with greater citizenry participation as prosumers. The search for novel solutions to implement the transition to renewable energy that will neutralize the barriers to this process, e.g., the reluctance of citizens to get involved, lack of trust in decision-makers and lack of co-ownership of energy projects, is inevitable as a part of the bottom-up process. Energy communities have vast potential to scale up Renewable Energy projects. Due to the fact that in Poland, establishing citizen energy communities in the cities is not allowed, the key success factor of energy transformation is to engage housing cooperatives and other housing communities in this process. A similar legal framework prevents communities from establishing themselves in the Czech Republic and Hungary. The research problem of this paper is to identify determinants of the co-creation process in Renewable Energy project activation at the housing cooperative level. The aim is to identify key conditions that housing cooperatives should establish in order to successfully undertake Renewable Energy project implementation using a co-creation approach. The literature study shows that the term “co-creation” is not often used in energy transition projects, although many local energy transitions are indeed co-created, unfortunately not in a structured methodical manner. In the research, we apply the DART (Dialogue, Access, Risk, Transparency) model as the framework to conduct the analysis. The study has been carried out using quantitative and qualitative research methods and based on primary and secondary data. Our findings indicate that considering the different areas of the DART model, co-creation was most visible in the area of dialogue-communication between cooperative authorities and its members, while it was least visible in the area of transparency. Based on the results pertaining to the implemented project, the researchers postulate the inclusion of factors beyond the DART model that further shape the co-creation process.
Infrastructure Planning for Autonomous Electric Vehicles, Integrating Safety and Sustainability Aspects: A Multi-Criteria Analysis Approach
Authors: Anastasiadou Konstantina , Gavanas Nikolaos , Pitsiava-Latinopoulou Magda , Bekiaris Evangelos
Published: August 2021

After the awareness-raising of recent years for coping with the global societal, economic and environmental challenges, the need for sustainable planning in the transport sector has become even more evident. Initiatives aiming at promoting sustainable and innovative mobility solutions, especially in urban areas where mobility needs are higher and transport problems are more intense, have been launched by different organizations around the world. In this context, autonomous electric vehicles are emerging as a promising solution; however, they are accompanied by new infrastructure requirements, along with safety concerns. Policymakers will be confronted with an array of choices, such as plug-in or wireless, dynamic or stationary charging and mixed flow with conventional vehicles or dedicated lanes, taking into account the uncertain impacts of innovation on safety and sustainability. Within this scope, these infrastructure alternatives are evaluated and prioritized, for the first time, in the present study, through the combined application of two hybrid multi-criteria analysis models, with the participation of experts. The analysis is based on a set of safety and sustainability criteria. Road safety and exposure to electromagnetic radiation emerge as the most important criteria, with the optimum solution—based on current data—consisting of plug-in charging and the circulation of autonomous electric vehicles in dedicated lanes.
Double-Coil Dynamic Shielding Technology for Wireless Power Transmission in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhang Shumei , Cheng Ze
Published: August 2021

During wireless charging, the transmission distance of electric vehicles varies, resulting in different levels of electromagnetic field leakage. An improved active shielding technology, the double-coil dynamic shielding technology, is proposed in this paper for wireless power transfer (WPT) systems with different transmission distances. Modeling, simulation, and experiments are performed for the WPT system with a double-coil dynamic shielding scheme and compared with other cases. The results show that the proposed double-coil dynamic shielding scheme is able to shield approximately 70% of the electromagnetic field leakage for WPT systems at different transmission distances. In addition, it essentially causes no degradation in transmission efficiency (only 3.1%). The effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed scheme are verified.
Electrochemical Hydrogenation and Corrosion Behaviour of LaNi5-xGex (x = 0.3 and 0.6) Alloys
Authors: Giza Krystyna , Owczarek Edyta
Published: August 2021

The capacitive and kinetic parameters of hydride electrodes obtained on the basis of single-phase LaNi5-xGex alloys (x = 0.3 and 0.6) were related to their corrosive properties. The content of the article is important from the point of view of the improvement of LaNi5 type materials for hydrogen energy storage used as anodes in NiMH batteries. The presence of large amounts of germanium (10% at.) in the alloy results in much less surface degradation compared to the low-germanium alloy (5% at.), which, on the one hand, leads to an improvement in the resistance of the high-germanium LaNi4.4Ge0.6 alloy to long-term cycling, but on the other hand, contributes to lower hydrogen absorption by this material. The maximum discharge capacity of 293 mAh g−1 was obtained for the low-germanium alloy using a charge/discharge current density of 185 mA g−1. The studied electrode also shows a lower tendency to self-discharge and a clearly higher exchange current density.
Recent Advances in Precision Clock Synchronization Protocols for Power Grid Control Systems
Authors: Jones Terry , Arnold Doug , Tuffner Frank , Cummings Rodney , Lee Kang
Published: August 2021

With the advent of a new Precision Time Protocol specification, new opportunities abound for clock synchronization possibilities within power grid control systems. The third iteration of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standard 1588 specification provides several new features specifically aimed at complex, wide-area deployments in which situational awareness and control require precise time agreement. This paper describes the challenges faced by existing technology, introduces the new time distribution specification, and provides examples to explain how it represents a game-changing innovation.
Management of the Documentation Release by the Programmable Electrical Energy Flow-Individually Made Machine Called Documentomat
Authors: Chajduga Tomasz , Ingaldi Manuela , Klimecka-Tatar Dorota
Published: August 2021

It is well known that in a turbulent world (full of processed information), information has a particularly high value. Wide access to technology makes the data transformation and transmission processes faster and more vulnerable to leaks and unauthorized access. This publication discusses the concept of information security management based on a development of a machine called documentomat. It is the machine built to automatically release documents with regard to high security standards. The entire flow of the documents in the company has been presented and the formalized process of decision-making to develop and finally build above-mentioned machine was described. The problems and doubts raised during the machine building process were presented along with the solutions adopted. The device has been designed, constructed, and programmed within the resources of one micro-sized limited liability company in Europe. Thus, it is the solution working in a real world that may find application in many similar companies, not the theoretical concept only. The final result exceeded the expectations of the project team, leading to strengthening of the competitive position of the company. This occurred through the following aspects: adding significant advantage to its offer, which is the ability to release the documents at any time with regard to high security standards. Moreover, the long-term level of costs of such a solution seems to be very low. During the one year of operation period, two malfunctions took place, each was repaired in just 3 h (repair and improvement, labor only, no spare parts needed). Any further maintenance, repair, or development can be done at very affordable prices, at non-available on the market labor cost, which will potentially further strengthen the impact of the solution on the competitiveness of the company. Improvement in terms of competitiveness of the company and data safety has been gained. The success of this project proves that, in some cases, it is worth to develop the necessary solution within the resources of the company rather than buying one from an external enterprise.
Experiments in Shock-Vortex Interactions
Authors: Skews Beric
Published: August 2021

Studies of shock-vortex interactions in the past have predominantly been numerical, with a number of idealizations such as assuming an isolated vortex and a plane shock wave. In the present case the vortex is generated from flow separation at a corner. A shear layer results which wraps up into a spiral vortex. The flow is impulsively initiated by the diffraction of a shock wave over the edge. The strength of the shock determines the nature of the flow at the corner and that induced behind the diffracted wave. A wide variety of cases are considered using different experimental arrangements such as having two independent shock waves arriving at the corner at different times, to reflecting the diffracting wave off different surfaces back into the vortex, and to examining the flow around bends where the reflection off the far wall reflects back onto the vortex. The majority of studies have shown that the vortex normally retains its integrity after shock transit. Some studies with curved shock waves and numerous traverses have shown evidence of vortex breakup and the development of turbulent patches in the flow, as well as significant vortex stretching. Depending on the direction of approach of the shock wave it refracts through the shear layer thereby changing the strength and direction of both. Of particular note is that the two diffracted waves which emerge from the vortex as the incident wave passes through interact with each other resulting in a pressure spike of considerable magnitude. An additional spike is also identified.
Silicon Foliar Spray and Substrate Drench Effects on Plant Growth, Morphology, and Resistance to Wilting with Container-Grown Edible Species
Authors: Tebow Joshua B. , Houston Lauren L. , Dickson Ryan W.
Published: August 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate silicon (Si) foliar spray and substrate drench effects on plant growth and morphology for container-grown edible crops during greenhouse production, as well as resistance to plant wilting during post-production. In the first greenhouse experiment, basil received Si foliar sprays at 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg∙L–1 Si. In the second greenhouse experiment, Si was applied as either a foliar spray (500 mg∙L–1 Si) or substrate drench (100 mg∙L–1 Si) with six edible crop species. Supplemental Si increased shoot Si levels but had minimal effects on plant growth and morphology, except for parsley, which resulted in distorted growth and phytotoxicity. In the first experiment, 200 and 400 mg∙L–1 Si foliar sprays increased plant resistance to wilt by 2.2 and 2.5 d, respectively; however, this was not observed in the second experiment. All species accumulated Si with the control (no Si) treatments, indicating trace amounts of Si were taken up from the substrate, fertilizer, spray surfactant, and irrigation water. Only cucumber was classified as a Si “accumulator” with a high capacity for Si uptake. Results emphasize the need to conduct preliminary trials with supplemental Si to avoid issues of phytotoxicity.
The Use of Interactive Virtual BIM to Boost Virtual Tourism in Heritage Sites, Historic Jeddah
Authors: Baik Ahmad
Published: August 2021

Today, moving from a two-dimensional environment to a more advanced interactive three-dimensional (3D) environment in the industries of architecture, engineering, and construction has become one of the most significant topics of interest. This is due to several primary advantages that the 3D environment can offer. Building information modeling (BIM) can be used as a highly advanced system to present a desired reality in a 3D interactive environment accompanied with 3D reality captured data, such as the point cloud data. As such, these 3D environments can be employed for more advanced uses, such as virtual reality and augmented reality technologies (VR and AR). Recently, BIM has been employed in the context of heritage (known as HBIM, or Heritage Building Information Modeling) for different purposes, such as to provide as-built information with the ability to interact with the end user and uploading information (e.g., historical photographs, documents about materials, or any past restoration projects) into the BIM model. This research will focus on providing an interactive rich virtual 3D model for heritage management. This virtual environment can be employed in cultural tourism and used for the abovementioned purposes. The research project has been adopted in the case of the Zainal Historical House (Bayt Zainal) located in the Historic District of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This house is described as one of the significant historical buildings in the historic district. The key aim for selecting this case study is to bridge the gap in architectural knowledge regarding these heritage buildings and their hybrid structural systems (i.e., integration of steel or concrete with the traditional “Mangbi” stone technique).
Improvement of the Parallel Compressor Model and Application to Inlet Flow Distortion
Authors: Benichou Emmanuel , Binder Nicolas , Bousquet Yannick , Carbonneau Xavier
Published: August 2021

This paper introduces a semi-analytical approach which enables one to deal with distorted inflow in axial fans or compressors. It is inspired by the classical parallel compressor (PC) theory but relies on a local flow-loading coefficient formalism. It is applied to non-uniform flow conditions to study the aerodynamic behavior of a low-speed fan in response to upstream flow distortion. Experimental measurements and 3D RANS simulations are used to evaluate the prediction of fan performance obtained with the local PC method. The comparison proves that, despite its simplicity, the present approach enables to correctly capture first order phenomena, offering interesting perspectives for an early design phase if different fan geometries are to be tested and if the upstream distortion maps are available.
Leveraging Clinical Decision Support and Integrated Medical-Dental Electronic Health Records to Implementing Precision in Oral Cancer Risk Assessment and Preventive Intervention
Authors: Rindal Donald B. , Mabry Patricia L.
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Precision medicine is focused on serving the unique needs of individuals. Oral and oropharyngeal cancer risk assessment identifies individual risk factors while providing support to reduce risk. The objective is to examine potential current and future strategies to broadly implement evidence-based oral and oropharyngeal cancer risk assessment and screening in dental practices throughout the United States. Methods: Feasible and effective oral cancer risk assessment and risk reduction strategies, ripe for implementation in dental practice, were identified in the published literature. Results: The Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral for Treatment (SBIRT) model is a feasible approach to assessing individual oral cancer risk and providing risk reducing interventions in the dental setting. HPV is a more recently identified risk factor that dentistry is well positioned to address. Evidence supporting the utilization of specific risk assessment tools and risk reduction strategies is summarized and future opportunities discussed. Discussion: Current knowledge of risk factors for oral and oropharyngeal cancers support the recommendation for dental providers to routinely assess all patients for risk factors, educate them about their personal level of cancer risk, and recommend actions to reduce relevant risk factors. Individuals ages 9–26 should be asked about their HPV vaccination status, educated about HPV and oropharyngeal cancer and receive a recommendation to get the HPV vaccination.
The Impact of Long-Term Physical Salt Attack and Multicycle Temperature Gradient on the Mechanical Properties of Spun Concrete
Authors: Kliukas Romualdas , Jaras Arūnas , Lukoševičienė Ona
Published: August 2021

The article is focused on spun concrete made with different chemical admixtures under long-term exposure to aggressive salt-saturated ground water and a cyclic temperature gradient. Over a long-term experimental investigation, 64 prismatic spun concrete specimens were subjected to multicycle (75–120) processing under combined aggressive ambient conditions. Prismatic specimens were soaked in water or saline and dried at a temperature of 45–50 °C. The long-term multi-cycle effect of the temperature gradient and physical salt attack on the compressive strength, Young’s modulus and durability of concrete was found to be negative. Chemical admixtures, though, improved the structure of spun concrete, thus having a significant positive effect on its physical-mechanical properties and durability.
Numerical Failure Analysis and Fatigue Life Prediction of Shield Machine Cutterhead
Authors: Li Jie , Zhang Zengqiang , Liu Chuang , Su Kang , Guo Jingbo
Published: August 2021

This paper presents numerical failure analysis on cracking of shield machine cutterhead structure during a metro-tunnel construction. The stress intensity factors (SIFs) of surface cracks with different shapes and location angles were analyzed by a finite element simulation method based on linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) theory. The ratios of variation in stress intensity factors of cracks with different shapes were analyzed. The maximum allowable crack depth of the cutterhead panel is 50.23 mm by dynamic stress calculation, and the damage tolerance criterion of the cutterhead panel was proposed. The influence of the Paris model parameter values was analyzed based on mathematical methods. It is proven that the location of the cutterhead cracking angle is mainly determined by the mixed-mode SIF. In practice, the crack section basically expanded into the semi-elliptical shape. The cutterhead structure may directly enter the stage of crack propagation due to welding defects during tunneling. The research results provide a theoretical basis and important reference for crack detection in the key parts of the cutterhead, as well as maintenance cycle determination and life prediction of the cutterhead mileage, both of which have important engineering value.
Experimental Study of Lateral-Torsional Buckling of Class 4 Beams at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Woźniczka Piotr
Published: August 2021

The results of experimental research on lateral-torsional buckling of steel plate girders with slender web subjected to fire conditions are presented in this paper. The scope of the research covers four girders, three of which have been tested under high temperature conditions. The fourth girder has been used to determine the critical load resulting in lateral-torsional buckling of the considered element at room temperature. All the considered elements had identical cross sections and lengths; however, they differed in external temperatures applied and magnitude of measured geometrical imperfections. It has to be highlighted, that the experiments have been conducted subject to the anisothermal conditions, taking into account the uneven distribution of temperature in the cross section. An approach of this type represents a more accurate modelling of the structural component behaviour, when subjected to fire, as compared to the experiments conducted under isothermal conditions. Complete information on the development of research stand, conduct and results of particular tests are presented in this paper. The temperature–time curves for girder components, results of imperfection measurements and mechanical properties of steel are presented. The obtained critical temperatures and graphs of girder top flange horizontal deflection versus temperature are also included. The computer models developed for analysed girders are described in the paper as well. The results obtained with these models have been compared with experimental results. The computational models validated in this way constitute a basis for further parametric studies of lateral-torsional buckling in the domain of steel plate girders with slender web when subjected to fire conditions.
Bio-Fibres as a Reinforcement of Gypsum Composites
Authors: Fantilli Alessandro P. , Jóźwiak-Niedźwiedzka Daria , Denis Piotr
Published: August 2021

Three series of tests performed on fibre-reinforced gypsum composites are described herein. Sheep wool fibres and hemp fibres were used as reinforcement. The aim was to evaluate the capability of these biomaterials to enhance the fracture toughness of the gypsum matrix. The mechanical properties were measured by means of flexural tests on small specimens, whereas scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction were used to analyse the microstructure and composition of the fibres and of the gypsum composites. As a result, wool fibres were shown to improve the mechanical performance of the gypsum matrix, better than hemp fibres. This is due to the high adhesion at the interface of the fibre and gypsum matrix, because the latter tends to roughen the surface of the wool and, consequently to increase the bond strength. This preliminary research carried out shows that this type of biofiber—a waste material—can be considered a promising building material in sustainable and environmentally friendly engineering.
Comparison of the Fracture Resistance and Fracture Mode of Contemporary Restorative Materials to Overcome the Offset of Mandibular Implant-Supported, Cement-Retained Crowns
Authors: Bajunaid Salwa Omar , Alshiddi Ibraheem , Alhomaidhi Lamya , Almutairi Rania , Alolayan Shoq , Habib Syed Rashid
Published: August 2021

Background: The purpose was to compare the fracture resistance and the mode of failure of different contemporary restorative materials to restore implant supported, cement-retained mandibular molars. Methods: Two 5 × 10 mm titanium dental implants were mounted in resin blocks and prefabricated titanium and zirconia abutments were connected to each implant. Each implant received forty crowns resembling mandibular first molars. The specimens were divided into four groups (n = 10/group) for each abutment according to the type of material; Group A: porcelain fused to metal crowns; Group B: monolithic zirconia crowns; Group C: zirconia coping with ceramic veneer; Group D: all ceramic lithium disilicate crowns. Specimens were cemented to the abutments, mounted into a universal testing machine, and vertical static load was applied at a speed of 1 mm/min. The test stopped at signs of visual/audible fracture/chipping. Fracture resistance values were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s tests (α ≤ 0.05). The modes of failure were visually observed. Results: A statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) of the fracture resistance values among tested groups was found. The group that showed the highest fracture resistance was Group A for both the titanium and the zirconia abutments (3.029 + 0.248 and 2.59 ± 0.39, respectively) while Group D for both abutments (1.134 + 0.289 and 1.68 ± 0.13) exhibited the least resistance. Conclusions: Fracture resistance and fracture mode varied depending on type of restorative material. For both titanium and zirconia abutments, porcelain fused to metal showed the highest fracture resistance values followed by monolithic zirconia.
Effect of Surface Integrity on Hot Fatigue Life of Ti2AlNb Intermetallic Alloy
Authors: Wang Yanju , Zhou Yi , Sha Aixue , Li Xingwu
Published: August 2021

The effect of surface integrity on the hot fatigue performance of Ti2AlNb alloy was investigated. A turning process was used to prepare the standard specimens for hot fatigue tests. The surface integrity characterization and axial fatigue tests were performed. The results show that the influence of surface roughness on the hot fatigue performance of the Ti2AlNb alloy is a secondary factor. The compressive residual stress and enhanced microhardness in the surface layer has a significant effect on the hot fatigue life and they are dominant in the hot fatigue behavior of the Ti2AlNb alloy. Through the investigation on the characteristics of the fatigue fractures, the fatigue propagation process was significantly suppressed because of the strong residual compressive stress and microhardness distribution on the surface layer of the Ti2AlNb specimen.
Comparative Study of the Dynamic Deformation of Pure Molybdenum at High Strain Rates and High Temperatures
Authors: Chen Shuai , Li Wen-Bin , Wang Xiao-Ming , Yao Wen-Jin , Song Jiu-Peng , Jiang Xiang-Cao , Yan Bin-You
Published: August 2021

To study the dynamic plastic properties of high-purity molybdenum materials at high temperature and high strain rate, we designed tests to compare the mechanical behaviour of two high-purity molybdenum materials with different purities and two with different processing deformation conditions under dynamic impact compression in the temperature range of 297–1273 K. We analysed the molybdenum materials’ sensitivities to the strain-hardening effect, strain rate-strengthening effect, and temperature-softening effect as well as the comprehensive response to the combined effect of the strain rate and temperature, the adiabatic impact process, and the microstructure at high temperature and high strain rate. Furthermore, based on a modified Johnson–Cook constitutive model, we quantitatively analysed the flow stresses in these materials. The calculation results strongly agree with the test results. Our findings indicate that the high-purity molybdenum materials show consistent sensitivity to the combined effect of strain rate and temperature regarding the dynamic plastic properties. The materials with higher purity are less sensitive to the combined effect of the strain rate and temperature, and those with less processing deformation experience more pronounced strain-hardening effects. Under high strain rate at room temperature, these materials are highly susceptible to impact embrittlement and decreases in dynamic plastic properties due to intergranular fracture in the internal microstructure. However, increasing the impact environment temperature can significantly improve their plastic properties. The higher the temperature, the better the plastic properties and the higher the impact toughness.
Detonation Spraying of Hydroxyapatite on a Titanium Alloy Implant
Authors: Bulina Natalia V. , Rybin Denis K. , Makarova Svetlana V. , Dudina Dina V. , Batraev Igor S. , Utkin Alexey V. , Prosanov Igor Yu. , Khvostov Mikhail V. , Ulianitsky Vladimir Yu.
Published: August 2021

Hydroxyapatite (HA), the major mineral component of tooth enamel and natural bones, is a good candidate for bone tissue engineering. Synthetic HA is used for making coatings on metallic implants intended for medical applications. A HA coating renders the implant biocompatible and osteoinductive. In addition, it improves fixation and the overall performance of the implanted object. In the present work, HA coatings were deposited on a medical titanium alloy implant with mesh geometry and a developed surface by detonation spraying. The feedstock powder was HA obtained by the dry mechanochemical method. Single-phase HA coatings were obtained. The coatings were formed not only on the surfaces normal to the particle flow direction, but also on the sides of the mesh elements. Despite partial melting of the powder, no decomposition of HA occurred. This work demonstrates the prospects of detonation spraying for the production of HA coatings on metallic implants with complex geometries.
Proteases Production and Chitin Preparation from the Liquid Fermentation of Chitinous Fishery By-Products by Paenibacillus elgii
Authors: Lee Dan-Hsin , Doan Chien Thang , Tran Thi Ngoc , Nguyen Van Bon , Nguyen Anh Dzung , Wang Chuan-Lu , Wang San-Lang
Published: August 2021

Chitinous fishery by-products have great application in the production of various bioactive compounds. In this study, Paenibacillus elgii TKU051, a protease-producing bacterial strain, was isolated using a medium containing 1% squid pens powder (SPP) as the sole carbon/nitrogen (C/N) source. P. elgii TKU051 was found to produce at least four proteases with molecular weights of 100 kDa, 57 kDa, 43 kDa, and 34 kDa (determined by the gelatin zymography method). A P. elgii TkU051 crude enzyme cocktail was optimally active at pH 6–7 and 60 °C. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity and α-glucosidase inhibitory activity of the hydrolysates obtained from the hydrolysis of shrimp shell powder, shrimp head powder, shrimp meat powder, fish head powder and soya bean powder catalyzed by the P. elgii TkU051 crude enzyme cocktail were also evaluated. P. elgii TKU051 exhibited a high deproteinization capacity (over 94%) on different kinds of shrimp waste (shrimp heads and shells; fresh and cooked shrimp waste; shrimp waste dried by oven and lyophilizer), and the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy profile of the chitin obtained from the deproteinization process displayed the characteristic of chitin. Finally, the obtained chitin exhibited an effect comparable to commercial chitin in terms of adsorption against Congo Red (90.48% and 90.91%, respectively). Thus, P. elgii TKU051 showed potential in the reclamation of chitinous fishery by-products for proteases production and chitin extraction.
Exploiting of Secondary Raw Materials from Fish Processing Industry as a Source of Bioactive Peptide-Rich Protein Hydrolysates
Authors: Phadke Girija Gajanan , Rathod Nikheel Bhojraj , Ozogul Fatih , Elavarasan Krishnamoorthy , Karthikeyan Muthusamy , Shin Kyung-Hoon , Kim Se-Kwon
Published: August 2021

Developing peptide-based drugs are very promising to address many of the lifestyle mediated diseases which are prevalent in a major portion of the global population. As an alternative to synthetic peptide-based drugs, derived peptides from natural sources have gained a greater attention in the last two decades. Aquatic organisms including plants, fish and shellfish are known as a rich reservoir of parent protein molecules which can offer novel sequences of amino acids in peptides, having unique bio-functional properties upon hydrolyzing with proteases from different sources. However, rather than exploiting fish and shellfish stocks which are already under pressure due to overexploitation, the processing discards, regarded as secondary raw material, could be a potential choice for peptide based therapeutic development strategies. In this connection, we have attempted to review the scientific reports in this area of research that deal with some of the well-established bioactive properties, such as antihypertensive, anti-oxidative, anti-coagulative, antibacterial and anticarcinogenic properties, with reference to the type of enzymes, substrate used, degree of particular bio-functionality, mechanism, and wherever possible, the active amino acid sequences in peptides. Many of the studies have been conducted on hydrolysate (crude mixture of peptides) enriched with low molecular bioactive peptides. In vitro and in vivo experiments on the potency of bioactive peptides to modulate the human physiological functions beneficially have demonstrated that these peptides can be used in the prevention and treatment of non-communicable lifestyle mediated diseases. The information synthesized under this review could serve as a point of reference to drive further research on and development of functionally active therapeutic natural peptides. Availability of such scientific information is expected to open up new zones of investigation for adding value to underutilized secondary raw materials, which in turn paves the way for sustainability in fish processing. However, there are significant challenges ahead in exploring the fish waste as a source of bioactive peptides, as it demands more studies on mechanisms and structure–function relationship understanding as well as clearance from regulatory and statutory bodies before reaching the end user in the form of supplement or therapeutics.
Rapid Recurrence of Giant Multilocular Prostatic Cystadenoma after Laparoscopic Excision for Primary Case: A Case Report
Authors: Choi Tae-Soo , Lee Dong-Gi , Yoo Koo-Han , Min Gyeong-Eun
Published: August 2021

Giant multilocular prostatic cystadenoma is a rare benign tumor of the prostate gland that presents as a large retroperitoneal pelvic mass. The mass is usually located between the urinary bladder and rectum, and results in obstructive voiding symptoms and a change in bowel habits. Complete surgical excision is the treatment of choice. We present a case of rapid recurrent giant multilocular prostatic cystadenoma after laparoscopic excision for primary case. A previously healthy 54-year-old man presented with acute urinary retention. Prostate MRI showed a large cystic mass approximately 13 cm in size, multiple septa and lobulation in the prostate, and no visible solid lesions. Laparoscopic marsupialization of giant multilocular prostatic cystadenoma cysts was performed. One year later, the patient presented with local recurrence. Repeated laparoscopic complete resection was performed without any complications and further recurrence. Giant multilocular prostatic cystadenoma has the risk of recurrence in case of incomplete resection. Surgical treatment should be performed with the goal of complete removal following the same principles as cancer surgery.
Potential Circumferential Bone Engagement following Tooth Extraction in the Posterior Mandible: Computed Tomography Assessment
Authors: Hamzani Yafit , Yassien Emran , Moskovich Liad , Becker Talia , Chaushu Gavriel , Haj Yahya Bahaa
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Immediate implant placement (IIP) is a popular surgical procedure with a 94.9–98.4% survival rate and 97.8–100% success rate. In the posterior mandible, it poses a risk of injury to adjacent anatomical structures if the implant engages apical bone. This study sought to assess the implant dimensions that allow for circumferential bone engagement at each position in the posterior mandible without additional apical drilling. Materials and Methods: An observational, cross-sectional study design was used. The pre-extraction cone beam computed tomography scans of 100 candidates for IIP were analyzed. Measurements of each root of the posterior mandibular second premolar, first molar, and second molar were taken from three aspects: buccolingual, mesiodistal, and vertical. Two-sided p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 478 mandibular teeth and 781 roots were assessed. Based on Straumann® BLX/BLT implant-drilling protocols, predicted rates of radiological circumferential engagement (RCE) were 96% for implants 5 mm in diameter in the second premolar root position; 94% for implants 4.0–4.2 mm in diameter in the first molar root position; and 99% for implants 4.5–4.8 mm in diameter in the second molar root position. Corresponding rates of achieving an available implant length (AIL) of 10 mm were 99%, 90%, and 86%. Patients <40 years old were at higher risk of lower RCE and lower AIL (p < 0.005) than older patients for all roots measured. Conclusions: The high primary stability prediction rates based on the calculation of RCE and AIL support the use of IIPs without further apical drilling in the posterior mandible in most cases.
Ablation Zone Involution of Liver Tumors Is Faster in Patients Treated with Irreversible Electroporation Than Microwave Ablation
Authors: Ridouani Fourat , Ghosn Mario , Cornelis Francois , Petre Elena N , Hsu Meier , Moskowitz Chaya S , Kingham Peter T , Solomon Stephen B , Srimathveeravalli Govindarajan
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: To compare ablation zone involution following microwave ablation (MWA) or irreversible electroporation (IRE) of liver tumors. Materials and Methods: MWA or IRE performed for colorectal cancer liver metastasis (CRLM) or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) during January 2011 to December 2015 were analyzed. Patients with a tumoral response on 1-year follow-up computed tomography (CT) were included. Generalized estimating equations were used to evaluate the differences between the two modalities on ablation zone involution observed on CT at 6 (M6) and 12 months (M12), and on laboratory values (total bilirubin, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, albumin, and platelets count). The likelihood ratio test was used to assess whether the association between ablation modalities and these outcomes differed over time. Results: Seventeen (17/44, 39%) women and 27 (27/44, 61%) men were included, with 25 HCC (25/44, 57%) and 19 CRLM (19/44, 43%) patients. IRE was used in 9 (9/19, 47%) CRLM and 5 (5/25, 20%) HCC patients, respectively. All other patients had MWA. Ablation zone size and involution between IRE and MWA differed significantly over time (interaction p < 0.01), with a mean of 241.04 vs. 771.08 mm2 (ratio 0.313; 95% CI, 0.165–0.592; p < 0.01) at M6 and 60.47 vs. 589.43 mm2 (ratio 0.103; 95% CI, 0.029–0.365; p < 0.01) at M12. Changes in liver enzymes did not differ significantly between IRE and MWA at both timepoints. Conclusions: Liver tumors treated with IRE underwent faster involution when compared to tumors treated with MWA, but liver enzymes levels were comparable.
Delta Sleep-Inducing Peptide Recovers Motor Function in SD Rats after Focal Stroke
Authors: Tukhovskaya Elena A. , Ismailova Alina M. , Shaykhutdinova Elvira R. , Slashcheva Gulsara A. , Prudchenko Igor A. , Mikhaleva Inessa I. , Khokhlova Oksana N. , Murashev Arkady N. , Ivanov Vadim T.
Published: August 2021

Background and Objectives: Mutual effect of the preliminary and therapeutic intranasal treatment of SD rats with DSIP (8 days) on the outcome of focal stroke, induced with intraluminal middle cerebral occlusion (MCAO), was investigated. Materials and Methods: The groups were the following: MCAO + vehicle, MCAO + DSIP, and SHAM-operated. DSIP or vehicle was applied nasally 60 (±15) minutes prior to the occlusion and for 7 days after reperfusion at dose 120 µg/kg. The battery of behavioral tests was performed on 1, 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after MCAO. Motor coordination and balance and bilateral asymmetry were tested. At the end of the study, animals were euthanized, and their brains were perfused, serial cryoslices were made, and infarction volume in them was calculated. Results: Although brain infarction in DSIP-treated animals was smaller than in vehicle-treated animals, the difference was not significant. However, motor performance in the rotarod test significantly recovered in DSIP-treated animals. Conclusions: Intranasal administration of DSIP in the course of 8 days leads to accelerated recovery of motor functions.
Examining the Dietary Diversity of Children in Niger
Authors: Egbuonye Nafissatou Cisse , Ishdorj Ariun , McKyer E.L.J. , Mkuu Rahma
Published: August 2021

Malnutrition is a major public health concern in Niger. The stunting rate in children in Niger is over 50%, one of the highest in the world. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine children’s dietary diversity (CDD) and the maternal factors that impact CDD. A total of 1265 mother–child pairs were analyzed. Descriptive analysis was conducted to present maternal and child characteristics. To compare the mean scores of CDD in relation to the region, an independent sample t-test was conducted. A one-way ANOVA test was conducted to evaluate the CDD score by different age groups. A linear regression model was estimated to identify household, maternal and child factors that affect the CDD score. Our results indicate that most of the participants of our survey resided in rural areas and the majority (80.7%) of the mothers had no education. Factors such as region, children’s age, woman’s empowerment, vitamin A intake and wealth index were significant predictors of CDD (p < 0.05). The children residing in rural areas were more likely to have lower CDD scores (p < 0.05) than the children in urban areas, therefore becoming more susceptible to malnutrition.
“Remember Little Rock”: Racial (In)Justice and the Shaping of Contemporary White Evangelicalism
Authors: Heise Tammy
Published: August 2021

In 1957, Little Rock became a flash point for conflict over the U.S. Supreme Court’s Brown decision. This article examines Little Rock as a religious symbol for white southerners—especially white southern evangelicals—as they sought to exercise their self-appointed roles as cultural guardians to devise competing, but ultimately complementary, strategies to manage social change to limit desegregation and other civil rights expansions for African Americans. This history reveals how support for segregation helped to convert white southern evangelicals to conservative political activism in this period.
BRDF Estimations and Normalizations of Sentinel 2 Level 2 Data Using a Kalman-Filtering Approach and Comparisons with RadCalNet Measurements
Authors: Saulquin Bertrand
Published: August 2021

BRDF estimation aims to characterize the anisotropic behaviour of the observed surface, which is directly related to the type of surface. BRDF theoretical models are then used in the normalization of the satellite-derived observations to virtually replace the sensor at the nadir. Such normalization reinforces the homogeneity within and between satellite-derived time series. Nevertheless, the inversion of the necessary BRDF parameters for the normalization requires the implementation of robust methods to account for the noise in the Level 2 surface reflectances caused by the atmospheric correction process. Here, we compare normalized reflectances obtained with a Kalman filtering approach with i/the classical weighted linear inversion and ii/a normalization performed using the coefficients of the NASA-MODIS BRDF MCD43A1 band 2 product. We show, using the RadCalNet nadir-view reflectances, that the Kalman filtering approach is a more suitable approach for the Sen2Cor level 2 and the selected sites. Using the proposed approach, daily global maps of land surface BRDF coefficients and the derived normalized Sentinel 2 reflectances would be extremely useful to the global and regional climate modelling communities and for the world’s cover monitoring.
Development of a New Submaximal Walk Test to Predict Maximal Oxygen Consumption in Healthy Adults
Authors: Yang Hyuk In , Cho Wonhee , Lee Dong Hoon , Suh Sang-Hoon , Jeon Justin Y.
Published: August 2021

The aim of the study was to develop a simple submaximal walk test protocol and equation using heart rate (HR) response variables to predict maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max). A total of 60 healthy adults were recruited to test the validity of 3 min walk tests (3MWT). VO2max and HR responses during the 3MWTs were measured. Multiple regression analysis was used to develop prediction equations. As a result, HR response variables including resting HR and HR during walking and recovery at two different cadences were significantly correlated with VO2max. The equations developed using multiple regression analyses were able to predict VO2max values (r = 0.75–0.84; r2 = 0.57–0.70; standard error of estimate (SEE) = 4.80–5.25 mL/kg/min). The equation that predicted VO2max the best was at the cadence of 120 steps per minute, which included sex; age; height; weight; body mass index; resting HR; HR at 1 min, 2 min and 3 min; HR recovery at 1 min and 2 min; and other HR variables calculated based on these measured HR variables (r = 0.84; r2 = 0.70; SEE = 4.80 mL/kg/min). In conclusion, the 3MWT developed in this study is a safe and practical submaximal exercise protocol for healthy adults to predict VO2max accurately, even compared to the well-established submaximal exercise protocols, and merits further investigation.
Artificial Vision Algorithms for Socially Assistive Robot Applications: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Montaño-Serrano Victor Manuel , Jacinto-Villegas Juan Manuel , Vilchis-González Adriana Herlinda , Portillo-Rodríguez Otniel
Published: August 2021

Today, computer vision algorithms are very important for different fields and applications, such as closed-circuit television security, health status monitoring, and recognizing a specific person or object and robotics. Regarding this topic, the present paper deals with a recent review of the literature on computer vision algorithms (recognition and tracking of faces, bodies, and objects) oriented towards socially assistive robot applications. The performance, frames per second (FPS) processing speed, and hardware implemented to run the algorithms are highlighted by comparing the available solutions. Moreover, this paper provides general information for researchers interested in knowing which vision algorithms are available, enabling them to select the one that is most suitable to include in their robotic system applications.
The origin of the institute of procedural substitution in Bulgarian law
Authors: Kolarov Todor
Published: August 2021

The article strives to analyse the origin of the institute of procedural substitution (for the lack of a better term) in Bulgaria through historic overview, starting with the law of Ancient Rome, going through ius commune and finishing with the contemporary legal regime. From a procedural standpoint, the conclusion is that the institute came into being at the end of the XIX and beginning of the XX century. While manifestations of procedural substitution can be found in the Roman law, this is not an indication of a formulation of the legal institute itself.
Public lecture of mr. Traycho Traykov – mayor of “Sredets” region at the municipality of Sofia – before law students on the topic: “What is good for the people is not always politically correct, but somebody must do it”
Authors: Nikolova Raina
Published: August 2021

The public lecture is dedicated to the powers of regional mayors within a municipality. It focuses on the lack of financial decentralisation in the area of local self-government. It also describes the powers of regional mayors in the areas of ensuring public order and, in particular, the powers under the Ministry of Internal Affairs Act and the Condominium Ownership Management Act.