bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of low-temperature plasma for stabilizing a combustion process under the utilization of waste products with high moisture content
Authors: Delyagin V N , Ivanov N M , Karzanov A N , Bocharov V N , Kondrat’ev A A
Published: December 2020

Thermal recycling and disinfection of waste products in different physical states represent a comprehensive solution to the problem of waste utilization. The utilization of waste materials with high moisture content (more 70…75%) is associated with a need to evaporate a significant volume of water and causes, as a consequence, substantial additional expenses on an energy source. To cut costs related to the utilization of wastes with a high amount of water it is suggested using a coal cleaning product – a coal-water slurry fuel. The direct combustion of incompletely mechanically dehydrated (to 70-75%) wastes with high water content (cake) is an economically efficient process. However, it poses a severe problem of combustion stabilizing. The paper presents outcomes of the research into the stabilization of thermal recycling waste materials with a high level of moisture by means of low-temperature plasma in the adiabatic vortex combustion chamber. To control a burning process in the technology adapter low-temperature plasma is supplied into the base of flame. An output of a plasma generator (power supply source) is estimated as 1 kW power input per 13 kg/h suspension fuel. A dynamic range of heat output for a coal-water slurry fuel and wastes is determined to be 70-100% when generating thermal energy and utilizing wastes with high moisture content by means of low-temperature plasma as a stabilizer of a combustion process. Experimental studies carried out on a machine simulator have proven the efficiency of low-temperature plasma for utilization and disinfection of waste products in commercial farming.
The Use Of Combined Composites Of Non-Traditional Raw Materials Of Plant Origin In The Production Of Functional Bakery Products
Authors: Konovalova I D , Orobinskaya V N , Kholodova E N , Pisarenko O N , Galdin E V
Published: December 2020

The development of new types of food products using non-traditional plant materials rich in useful substances necessary for the human body is an actual direction of the STI of the Russian Federation “FoodNet”. Bread and bakery products occupy a high share in the consumer basket of the population of the Russian Federation, research in the field of designing recipe compositions and technologies for new types of bakery products is of significant importance.

The disadvantage of the main share of bakery products is the low biological and physiological value and high calorie content. Modern production of bread and bakery products is aimed at their enrichment with vitamins, minerals to increase biological value and reduce calorie content.
Experimental comparison of smooth movement of an agricultural tractor with balancer suspension and torsion bar suspension
Authors: Troyanovskaya I P , Krasnokutsky V V , Rusanov M A
Published: December 2020

One of the reasons for the increased fatigue of tracked agricultural tractor operators is vibration. Reducing overall vibration is possible due to a change in suspension. All agricultural tracked tractors are equipped with an elastic balancing suspension, as a rule. Kharkov Tractor Plant has released an experimental batch of tractors with torsion bar suspension. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the type of suspension on the smooth movement of the tractor. The experiment considered the real modes of operation of the tractor: plowing the ground in first and fourth gears, as well as the transport mode of movement. As a result of the tests, it was determined that the tractor with torsion suspension provides better ride comfort in transport mode. The torsion bar suspension has an advantage in the frequency range of 0.5–4 Hz, while the balancer suspension has an advantage in the high frequency range of 4–12 Hz when plowing the ground. The level of vibration acceleration of the floor of the tractor cab does not depend on the type of suspension in the frequency range above 12 Hz.
Evaluation of the main indicators of the reliability of the power transmission of a combine harvester John Deere 9660
Authors: Vakhrushev V V , Nemtsev A E , Ivanov N M , Melbert A A
Published: December 2020

The failure-free performance of the components determines the technical and economic efficiency of the use of the combine harvester. A low level of reliability leads to an increase in the cost of harvesting, the need for unscheduled repairs due to failures of parts, assemblies and assembly units. Studies have shown that a significant proportion of failures occur in power transmission units. In this regard, the aim of the work is to assess the reliability of the power transmission of the John Deere 9660 combine harvester. The average time between failures of the power transmission units was 80 hours, which does not meet the regulatory requirements (according to STO AIST 8.22 - 2010 - at least 100 hours). Failures of all powertrain assemblies are caused by a combination of failures: wear and fatigue failure of the bore holes for the bearings of the unit housings, and gears, bearings from dynamic loads.
Assessment of the service properties of commodity motor oils by hydrogen indicator
Authors: Vakhrushev V V , Nemtsev A E , Ivanov N M
Published: December 2020

Basic oils produced from oil or obtained by the synthesis of monomers are generally chemically neutral. To improve the service properties of base motor oils, additive packages and active ingredients are introduced into it. The presence of anti-seize, anti-wear, and dispersing-stabilizing additives in a composition of commercial oil of a certain concentration of compounds of alkali metal salts changes its chemical activity [1].

Based on this, as a measure of service properties (anti-seize, anti-wear and dispersion-stabilizing properties (DSP)) of commercial motor oils can be used hydrogen indicator - pH.

In the work, as an invariant estimate of the concentration of resource additives and service properties of commercial motor oils, the use of pH is considered. Correlation dependences of pH on BSP and viscosity of the studied motor oil are given.
The rational repair and maintenance cycle of the KamAZ car gearbox taking into account the pre-repair operating time
Authors: Vakhrushev V V , Nemtsev A E , Ivanov N M , Poddubny V I
Published: December 2020

A significant proportion of the costs and downtime for repairs are on transmission units, and especially on the gearbox (GB). Based on the research results presented in the work, up to 76% of all transmission failures fall on the gearbox of a KamAZ 6540 automobile under ordinary operating conditions. The purpose of the study is to justify the repair and maintenance cycle (RMC) of the gearbox of the KamAZ 6540 automobile, taking into account the pre-repair operating time. The proposed methodology for assessing the pre-repair resource allows you to select the resource elements of the gearbox, taking into account the value of their resource and coefficient of variation. The structure of the RMC proposed in the work provides for: the first current repair during running hours - 125940 km; first overhaul during running hours - 251880 km; second current repair during running hours - 377820 km; second overhaul during running hours - 503760 km. Thus, changing the structure of the gearbox REC allows increasing the gearbox resource from 380 to 500 thousand km.
Study on the sealing defects impact on high pressure pump
Authors: Bistriceanu D P , Pal S G , Ciornei F C , Bujoreanu C
Published: December 2020

The sealing of the high-pressure pump is carried out by means of a seal between the pump drive shaft and the front plate to keep the fuel inside them. The literature presents numerous studies carried out on how these seals last in time and on their composition. Due to the fact that during assembly or during the mounting of the pump on the engine may occur accidental defects on the sealing area, our interest in this paper is to investigate their impact on pump operation. The damages were explored on a test bench a certain number of kilometres and later analysed their impact on the pump using an ultraviolet chamber in a dark room. The experimental analyses were carried out using the EvoCam optical microscope, but also with the help of computer tomography procedure.
Friction models for grease lubricated ball-race contacts
Authors: Ianuş G , Cojocaru D , Oprişan M C , Cârlescu V , Olaru D N
Published: December 2020

In this paper the authors theoretically investigated the influence of the hydrodynamic rolling friction forces in greased ball-race contacts at low loads. Two IVR-EHL transitions equations for hydrodynamic rolling friction forces have been applied to the ball-race contacts in a modified thrust ball bearing by using three types of greases having base oil viscosities between 40 mm2/s and 1000 mm2/s. Based on the total friction torque analytically estimated and experimentally determined has been evidenced the influence of the hydrodynamic rolling friction force on the total friction torque as the most important parameter for both proposed transition equations. The theoretical values of the total friction torque have been experimentally validated. The experiments was realized with a modified tree ball thrust bearing, without cage in a range of speed between 60 rpm and 400 rpm and for a normal load of 1.422 N for each ball.
Rapeseed oil with anti-wear additives on the four ball tester
Authors: Ionescu T F , Guglea D , Dima D , Georgescu C , Deleanu L
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a tribological characterization on the four ball tester, for three lubricants: rapeseed oil and this vegetal oil with two anti-wear nano additives (TiO2 and ZnO, respectively). The lubricants were obtained at laboratory scale by a particular regime of sonication. Each additive was added in: 0.25%, 0.50% and 1% mass concentrations. The tests were done for the following loads and sliding speeds: 100…300 N and 0.38…0.69 m/s. The authors selected three tribological parameters for evaluating the tribological behavior of lubricants formulated based on rapeseed oil and two nano additives (ZnO and TiO2): average of friction coefficient during 1 h test, wear scar diameter (WSD) and the temperature of lubricant bath at the end of the test.
Tribological investigation of human skin friction with polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE under different boundary conditions
Authors: Subhi K A , Hussein E K , Gaaz T S , Călin A , Tudor A
Published: December 2020

This paper is an experimental investigation on the interaction between the human finger and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with regards to friction. Three male Asian volunteers aged 24, 52 and 66 were asked to participate. The experimental setup consisted on a circle tipped probe being placed in contact with the ring finger of the volunteers and dragged over the surface of the finger with an applied load of (1-12) N. The friction phenomenon was evaluated in both dry and wet conditions using the CETR UMT-2 tribometer from the Department of Machine Elements and Tribology at University Politehnica of Bucharest. Contact adhesion was also studied, and it was found out that younger skin exhibits a greater adhesion component.
Experimental analysis of three tetra-anti-chiral auxetic honeycomb structures
Authors: Raluca Negrea , Paul Predoiu , Stefan Tabacu , Denis Negrea
Published: December 2020

Recent advances in manufacturing macro/micro/nano-structures led to the development of metamaterials, a new class of materials, which have exceptional properties, not easy to observe in nature, in terms of mechanical response, heat transport performance and energy absorption. In this study, a specific auxetic structure called anti-tetra-chiral, ATC (the adjective “chiral” means physical property to spin, “anti” is the effect, and the “tetra” represents their number of ligaments) is investigated and it was manufactured by laser cutting from 3 mm thick S320 mild steel plates with three different horizontal to vertical ligament ratios of 1:1, 1.5:1 and 1:1.5. The elastic properties of raw material, obtained by tensile testing regular S320 mild steel specimens, have been used in a numerical simulation algorithm using LS-DYNA in order to identify the loading capabilities of the structure. Then, an experimental setup for compression and tensile testing of A, B, and C types of ATC structures, have been appropriately planned and performed, assisted by with Digital Image Correlation (DIC) analysis using GOM-Correlate in order to obtain the deformation field evolution and calculate the average Poisson’s coefficients for all three ACT structures. Future research work is targeted for the development and optimization of both ATC structure design and numerical simulation algorithm targeting shock absorbers applications.
Student demonstrator for teaching Brain-Computer Interfaces
Authors: Ianoşi-Andreeva-Dimitrova A , Mândru D S , Bologa I D
Published: December 2020

One of the most exciting topics to teach to the students that follow the Biomechatronics lectures is Brain-Computer Interface (BCI). Its novelty as well as the sheer fact that one might control a computer via its brain waves is usually enough to guarantee implication. Unfortunately, there are no readily available student demonstrators on the market, which prompts the usage of research systems, and these are not easily configurable for laboratory demonstrations. This paper proposes two student demonstrators, describing the design process from conception, modelling, manufacturing and testing. The proposed demonstrators make use of the well-known motor-imagery BCI paradigm, one illustrating the basic principles, the other demonstrating a use-case as a rehabilitation upper-limb exerciser. The paper also reviews the current state of the art in the area of BCI systems for teaching.
Modeling and optimization of dynamic absorber with viscous friction
Authors: Ibanescu R , Ibanescu M
Published: December 2020

The vibrations coming from outer sources can cause, in the most cases, important disturbances in mechanical systems functioning. For this reason, solutions for the mitigation of these negative effects are sought, one of them being the use of vibration dynamic absorbers.

In the present work, a damped vibrating mechanical system is considered and a dynamic absorber with damping attached to it. The mechanical system is acted by a sinusoidal force. The mechanical system behavior is modeled by a system of four state-space equations, having as input data the outer force and as output data the elongations of the vibrating motions for the two masses, corresponding to the original system and to the dynamic absorber, respectively. In this paper, the analytical steady state solution for system functioning is determined.

The absorber effect can be optimized by using this solution. For this purpose, a soft in MATLAB environment is conceived, soft which offers the possibility of computing the mass, the spring elastic constant and the absorber coefficient of viscous friction, so that the amplitude of the original system oscillations, caused by the input force, to be minimal.
Experiment on the empathic reaction of an animatronic structure determined by a voice command
Authors: Ionescu M , Borcosi I , Gilca G , Cismaru S I , Besnea (Petcu) F , Resceanu C , Bizdoaca N G
Published: December 2020

This paper presents an experiment on the affective reaction of a modified biomimical structure Chimpanzee Alive at a series of comands or vocal dialogues. The experimental structure includes and a biomimetic structures Scary Terry Talking Skull which has the possibility, through own development board, to send voice commands to the biomimetic structure Chimpanzee Alive. These voice commands are taken by using a the smartphone with android operating system and which has Arduino BlueControl applications installed. After processing of the voice commands by Arduino BlueControl, the smartphone send control signals by bluettooth, to biomimetic structures controller. This commands the motors of the biomimetic structure (for the movement of the eyebrows, mouth and eyelids), the result being the following expressive states: euphoric, pensiveness, annoyance. After obtain the expressive states, the Chimpanzee Alive structure returns into neutral state by activate a gestures sensor.
Bathroom telemonitoring system with alerting function for independent life of elderly
Authors: Sebesi S B , Ianoşi-Andreeva-Dimitrova A , Mândru D S
Published: December 2020

Population ageing is tending to become one of the most significant social challenges of the twenty-first century. World’s population is ageing, and this fact is noticeable in every country in the world. Telemonitoring is a way of responding to new needs of home care in an aging population. With the current technology, it is possible to implement solutions that until recently seemed to be a distant vision of the future. Telemonitoring technologies in home environment is still under development, but this method appears to be one of the most promising approaches to facilitate independent living for elderly. This paper presents a fully independent and autonomous bathroom telemonitoring device for emergency situations detection.
Regenerative braking kinematic analysis and optimisation strategies
Authors: Stajilov V , Bujoreanu C
Published: December 2020

Most of electric and hybrid cars are city oriented due to their reduced pollution and small range. In this paper we intend to analyse kinematics and energy distribution during braking in the scope of city use cases. The purpose is to identify optimization criteria based on system limitations. Our proposal is to describe each case from point of view of kinematics (velocity, acceleration), energy (kinematic energy, instantaneous power). Having relations between data and the results helps us to form optimization strategies: a strategy oriented on driver comfort and two resulted from regenerative braking system component limits. Based on results, maximizing acceleration until its comfort value, in city conditions, does not generate unsupported instantaneous power for generator or energy storage system for an average electric car. Power limitation became more important when keeping same strategy for speed higher than 50 kph. In this case electric vehicles with small battery capacity and hybrid vehicles could show lower efficiency, as more kinetic energy will be dissipated by friction brakes. Presented strategies can be used to implement braking system controlling algorithm for regenerative brakes/friction brakes ratio on-the-fly optimization.
Agricultural robot for small farms
Authors: Morar C A , Doroftei I A , Doroftei I , Hagan M G
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a new concept of the robots dedicated to small farming activities. A walking robot is remote controlled in order to perform agricultural operations in small farms or peasant household. The robot should perform all operations during crop development respectively tilling seeding, fertilization, harvesting, etc. The robot structure is conceived in order to achieve low energy consumption criteria by gravitational decupling and static gait. The power of the robot is calculated robot power is calculated by reference to the power of a man or a horse. The purpose of this work is to approach some aspects of a robot according with the requirements of work environments: energy consumption, influence to the environment, the proper locomotion method, etc.
Dynamic balancing of RECOVER robotic system
Authors: Nadas I. , Gherman B. , Bîrlescu I. , Bogateanu R. , Banica A. , Carbone G. , Pisla D.
Published: December 2020

This paper presents a novel robotic system for the lower limb rehabilitation of post-stroke survivors. The model presented in this paper aims to demonstrate an innovative solution that helps in the mobilization of the hip and knee flexion/extension and the ankle plantar flexion/extension and eversion/inversion motions. The paper focuses on achieving the dynamic balancing of the hip-knee module, which due to high accelerations peak values and large size is prone to a certain degree of instability, leading to shaking forces and unwanted vibration that might reduce the safety feelings of the patient. A dynamically balanced mechanism will reduce noise, wear and fatigue and allow higher payload capacity.
Preliminary results and evaluation of an ankle rehabilitation device
Authors: Racu (Cazacu) C M , Doroftei I
Published: December 2020

The motivation for designing a new recovery system was based, first of all, on the increased incidence of injuries to the ankle joint. Medical recovery techniques can be applied either by physiotherapists or by robotic systems capable of helping/assisting the physiotherapist, in order to obtain an efficient recovery process. A novel ankle rehabilitation device is being developed, allowing progress monitoring by therapists. The system will allow patients to perform two kinds of exercises (planter flexion/dorsiflexion and inversion/eversion), hence will own two degrees of freedom. All the required values of the angular amplitudes of the rotational movements are set by the therapist via computer-generated graphical interface. The patients’ exercise is recorded on the host PC for evaluation and progress monitoring. Preliminary results and evaluation of first patient are discussed in this paper. Future medical trials are required to establish the maximum clinical efficacy in rehabilitation.
Experimental study of sit-to-stand kinematics in healthy, osteoarthritic and prosthetic knee
Authors: Tarnita D , Petcu A , Ontica V , Prunoiu Diana D , Tarnita D N
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in movement patterns during a sit-to-stand (STS) task before and after total knee replacement (TKR), the impact of the prosthesis on the kinematic parameters of sit-to-stand flexion movement and to compare biomechanical outcomes after TKR to a control group. A sample of seven healthy control subjects and five patients suffering of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) participated in three-dimensional motion analysis. Although there were significant improvements in movement 4 months after TKR, patients continued to demonstrate smaller moments on the prosthetic knee compared to non-operated and to control knees.
Design guideline for plastic parts that need to fulfil EN62368 norm
Authors: Pal S G , Goanţă V , Bistriceanu D P
Published: December 2020

The EN62368 norm is a European standard that specifies the safety requirements and the testing procedures that all audio/video, information and communication technology equipment need to fulfil. In order to fulfil this standard, all mechanical engineers should change the way of designing the parts and respect new rules that can increase the cost of production for all plastic parts. These changes will lead to a higher tool complexity and high material costs. Plastic material suppliers are starting to change their focus and develop new V0 materials with better and eco-friendly properties according to the market needs. Plastic materials with flame retardant compounds (FR/V0 – classification according UL94) need to pass all flammability requirements and tests and according to environment regulations, the plastic materials that are halogen free are more are more requested. In general, halogen free systems produce less smoke and less toxic components in smoke. Benefits of halogen free V0 materials is a better flame-retardant property, low smoke toxicity, low smoke obscurity and no corrosive gases. The tool complexity will increase because we must reduce, even avoid, the openings in all plastic parts because they will allow oxygen to get inside the ECUs and oxygen is maintaining the flame, making a potential ignition source to increase her breadth. Reducing the openings in a plastic part, will lead to adding sliders inside of the mould and sliders involves higher costs. Although, depending on the current that goes through the ECU, we can recommend you some design modifications that will save money and time for your project.
Theoretical study of SES solution for extending the electric vehicles autonomy
Authors: Ciobotar C C , Pascal I , Gaidur M , Rakosi E , Manolache Gh , Talif S
Published: December 2020

It is expected that in the near future the propulsion of motor vehicles will be mainly done using electric motors. The fundamental arguments are a much lower cost of travel and elimination of exhaust gases. However, the biggest problem of electric propulsion vehicles is the reduced autonomy. Regarding this disadvantage, there have been several attempts and they will continue to exist in order to eliminate or at least to reduce the phenomenon. Considering that, at present there is no technical solution showing real efficiency. A compromise can be achieved by using a small compact system based on a low cylinder thermal engine that trains an electric generator. This is achieved by means of a mechanical transmission called SES (Secondary Energy System). The main role is to charge the battery on board the vehicle, thus increasing its autonomy.
Physical functional model of the SES solution for extending autonomy of the electric vehicles propulsion system
Authors: Ciobotar C C , Gaidur M , Pascal I , Rakosi E , Talif S , Manolache Gh
Published: December 2020

The theoretical analysis and the virtual model design of the SES (Secondary Energy System) outlined the usefulness of this kind of equipment. Therefore, by carefully examining the improvements brought by SES to electric-powered vehicles, we can easily conclude that they can be equipped with such an additional energy system, which will enable them to have impressive performances. This has led to the next stage, respectively the physical construction of the whole ensemble. In this paper, the main elements that are part of the SES are presented in a detailed manner. At the same time, the thermodynamic processes of the spark-ignition engine are showed, practically, caught on a camera during its functioning.
Weigh-in-motion sensors and traffic monitoring systems - Sate of the art and development trends
Authors: Dontu A I , Barsanescu P D , Andrusca L , Danila N A
Published: December 2020

Weigh-in-motion (WIM) sensors allow the control of vehicle weights without disruption of traffic. WIM systems bring very important savings by traffic monitoring and by reducing the number of overloaded vehicles. This paper discusses the present status and developmental trends of Haigh-speed weigh-in-motion (HS-WIM) technologies. Both commercial and new types of WIM sensors are presented. Strengths and weaknesses of different type of WIM sensors are discussed, as well as the economic aspects of the different technologies. Possible future developments of WIM technologies concerning the measurement performance are also described.
The impact behavior of the crash boxes
Authors: Manea A M , Iozsa D , Stan C
Published: December 2020

This article will study the impact behavior of the crash box structures. The crash boxes are found between the front cross member and the front side members. They play an important role in case of minor frontal impact, speeds up to 15km/h. For this study, we propose three models of crash boxes of different sections. The impact analysis will be performed using the software ANSYS, Explicit Dynamics module. The shape and dimensions of the models were obtained from repeated impact tests. Thus, the obtained results were used for the continuous improvement of the crash boxes. The proposed models are made from extruded Aluminum bars with different sections. With the help of finite element analysis (FEM) one can compare the results and what impact energy absorption characteristics each proposed model of structure presents.
The finite element analysis of pelvic assembly resulted from a pedestrian’s traffic accident. The analysis of the sacral bone
Authors: Pascal I , Ciobotar C C , Gaidur M , Rakosi E , Manolache Gh , Talif S
Published: December 2020

The purpose of this study is to make a series of finite element analysis of the sacral bone of pedestrian involved in a car crash. The analyses are of a static type. The conditions for the analyses were chosen as to reflect the reality. The forces which acted on the sacral bone have been experimentally determined. In this study the authors want to highlight the benefit of the finite element analysis in the road accidentology field.
Experimental measurements of CO2 concentrations in sleeping rooms
Authors: Adîncu D A , Popescu A , Atanasiu M
Published: December 2020

People spend nearly one-third of their life on sleeping. Several factors can affect bedroom air quality and comfort of sleep, such as temperature, relative humidity and air quality. The most common indicator of indoor air quality is the concentration of carbon dioxide, its presence in indoor environment being strictly related to respiration and human metabolism. Since 2002, when the European Parliament and Council approved the directive on energy performance of buildings, EU member countries launched various programs for refurbishment of buildings and HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems, in order to reduce the energy consumption. Unfortunately, the renovation operations, such as replacing old windows with new tight ones or thermal insulation of the facades, lead to tightly sealed interior spaces. Insufficient infiltration of fresh air and limited natural ventilation result into increased pollutant concentration and deterioration of the indoor microclimate. Permissible concentration of carbon dioxide in the closed spaces according to World Health Organization is 1000 ppm. When the level exceeds this threshold, occupants may complain of headaches, drowsiness, lack of concentration and fatigue. The present study shows the measurements of carbon dioxide concentrations conducted in several sleeping rooms located in refurbished buildings, with or without mechanical ventilation system for fresh air supply, as well as suggested measures.
Finite-difference approach of ice build-up around a cylindrical pipe
Authors: Horbaniuc B , Dumitraşcu Gh , Atanasiu M
Published: December 2020

Melting-freezing phenomena are largely studied due to their importance in many applications such as latent heat storage, ice build-up in different settings, solidification of moulded pieces, epitaxial growth of silicon bars used to produce semiconductor waffles, etc. The paper deals with studying the ice build-up process around a cylindrical pipe through which a coolant flows, extracting heat from the surrounding water. Such a situation can be encountered in ice rinks where pipes are immersed in a shallow water basin that freezes. The approach of the paper is to determine the required time necessary for the ice thickness of the layer that builds up around the pipe to freeze under specified conditions (coolant temperature, pipe radius, and total radius of the water domain). An implicit finite difference technique with constant space step is employed to perform this task and the results are plotted and discussed.
Hybrid PV-TE-T modules: life cycle analysis and end of life assessment
Authors: Lupu A-G , Homutescu V M , Bălănescu D-T , Popescu A
Published: December 2020

World population growth along with requirements for more energy forced scientists into research for cleaner and sustainable energy sources. The largest available energy source, solar energy requires improved technologies and processes for conversion into electrical and thermal energy. This paper continues a series of analyses of a proposed hybrid module, which combines direct photovoltaic (PV) conversion to electricity with thermal conversion (T) and thermal waste heat recovery (using thermoelectric devices, TE). An extended life cycle analysis (LCA) is performed on each of the three components of hybrid module, carefully identifying inputs, processes and outputs, as well as impact per each standard category. Also, a review on end of life assessment is presented for the hybrid PV-TE-T module.
Species distribution modelling sheds light on the widespread distribution ofSphingonotus(Sphingonotus)rubescens(Orthoptera: Acrididae: Oedipodinae)
Authors: Dey Lara-Sophie , Husemann Martin , Hochkirch Axel , Simões Marianna V P
Published: December 2020

Sphingonotus (Sphingonotus) rubescens (Walker, 1870) occurs from the Atlantic Islands to central and southern Asia, but its ecological preferences and the potential drivers that shaped its currently extensive distribution remain unknown. We review the known occurrence data for S. rubescens and reconstruct its current and palaeoclimatic niche (Last Glacial Maximum and mid-Holocene) using species distribution modelling (SDM). We examine how climatic suitability might have created potential past migratory pathways shaping its current distribution. Moreover, we test the utility of SDM approaches to flag dubious records detected in the assembled dataset. The results reveal new distributional records from four countries. Climatic models indicate high levels of overlap between current and palaeoclimatic models, with stability of large suitable areas through time. Furthermore, we observe that suitability values associated with dubious records are lower than the distribution of suitability values within the known distribution of S. rubescens. Climatic stability of suitable areas through time for S. rubescens might have aided the expansion and maintenance of its current wide distribution. Furthermore, our results support previous studies indicating the usefulness of SDM tools for the detection of doubious occurrences.
Comparative plastome genomics and phylogenetic analyses of Liliaceae
Authors: Lu Rui-Sen , Yang Tuo , Chen Yang , Wang Shen-Yi , Cai Min-Qi , Cameron Kenneth M , Li Pan , Fu Cheng-Xin
Published: December 2020

Liliaceae, distributed mainly across the temperate Northern Hemisphere, are of great horticultural, culinary and medical importance, but are also a family with a long history of taxonomic uncertainty. Challenges in accurate species identification persist and phylogenetic relationships among genera in the family continue to be unresolved and/or weakly supported due to the use of limited molecular markers with insufficient variability. Here, nine newly sequenced plastomes for nine Liliaceae genera have been combined with previously published plastome data for this family, providing a total of 86 complete plastid genome sequences covering all 15 currently recognized genera for analyses. All these plastid genomes (146.9–158.3 kb) possess the typical quadripartite structure with conserved genome arrangement and content. Phylogenomic analyses strongly confirm the recognition of four subfamilies: Tricyrtidoideae with four genera; Medeoloideae with two genera; Lilioideae with eight genera and Calochortoideae, for Calochortus alone, as sister to Medeoloideae and Lilioideae. At least ten intergenic spacer regions that may serve as universal markers were identified in the family and, on a finer scale, nine and seven intergenic spacer regions are especially variable in Lilium and Fritillaria, respectively. The intergenic spacer regions rpoB-trnC, trnS-trnG, trnT-psbD and trnT-trnL, which showed high phylogenetic effectiveness, may be the best choices for future phylogenetic, phylogeographic and population genetic studies.
Clinical spectrum of ischaemic arterial diseases associated with COVID-19: a series of four illustrative cases
Authors: Guillet Henri , Gallet Romain , Pham Vincent , D’Humières Thomas , Huguet Raphaelle , Lim Pascal , Michel Marc , Khellaf Mehdi
Published: December 2020

Background

Severe coronavirus-induced disease 2019 (COVID-19) leads to acute respiratory distress syndrome with an increased risk of venous thrombo-embolic events. To a much lesser extent, arterial thrombo-embolic events have also been reported in this setting.

Case summary

Here, we describe four different cases of COVID-19 infection with ischaemic arterial events, such as a myocardial infarction with high thrombus load, ischaemic stroke on spontaneous thrombosis of the aortic valve, floating thrombus with mesenteric, splenic and renal infarction, and acute limb ischaemia.

Discussion

Cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes are comorbidities most frequently found in patients with a severe COVID-19 infection and are associated with a higher death rate. Our goal is to provide an overview of the clinical spectrum of ischaemic arterial events that may either reveal or complicate COVID-19. Several suspected pathophysiological mechanisms could explain the association between cardiovascular events and COVID-19 (role of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, endothelial dysfunction, activation of coagulation cascade leading to a hypercoagulability state, virus-induced secondary antiphospholipid syndrome). We need additional studies of larger size, to estimate the incidence of these arterial events and to assess the efficacy of anticoagulation therapy.
Granulocyte colony stimulating factor-associated aortitis evaluated via multiple imaging modalities including vascular echography: a case report
Authors: Harada Mikiko , Motoki Hirohiko , Sakai Takahiro , Kuwahara Koichiro
Published: December 2020

Background

Granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) preparations are used for patients with granulocytopenia, especially to prevent febrile neutropenia. Arteritis has been recognized as a side effect of G-CSF treatment; however, there are no clear diagnostic criteria or treatment guidelines because not enough cases have been reported. Present case showed one of the diagnostic and treatment selection methods via multiple imaging modality including vascular echography.

Case summary

A 52-year-old woman underwent chemotherapy for ovarian cancer and received G-CSF because of myelosuppression. The patient experienced high and remittent fever that persisted during treatment using antibiotics and acetaminophen. Enhanced computed tomography revealed thickening of the tissue around the aortic arch and abdominal aorta. Echography of the abdominal aorta revealed thickening of the wall and a hypoechoic region around the aorta. Gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging and 18F-fludeoxyglucose positron emission tomography also revealed that the inflammation was localized to the lesion. A suspicion of G-CSF-associated aortitis was based on the patient’s history and the exclusion of other diseases that might have caused the aortitis. Her condition rapidly improved after starting corticosteroid treatment.

Discussion

The differential diagnosis in similar cases should consider immune diseases that cause large-vessel arteritis (Takayasu arteritis, giant cell arteritis, and another vasculitis), infection, drug-induced disease, and immunoglobulin G4-related disease. The use of different imaging modalities, including vascular echography, helped guide the diagnosis and follow-up. It is necessary to evaluate the patient’s general condition before the selection of treatments.
Our Commitment to Lifelong Learning Lifelong Learning
Authors: Adamson Julia
Published: December 2020

BCS Director of Education, Julia Adamson CITP MBCS, opens the Lifelong Learning issue of ITNOW with a reflection on 2020; how the unusual circumstances have highlighted the importance of embracing change and BCS’ commitment to support and lead the way.
Adopting Emerging Technologies for Business Success
Authors: Baucherel Kate
Published: December 2020

Digital strategist Kate Baucherel, author of Blockchain Hurricane: Origins, Applications and Future of Blockchain and Cryptocurrency examines the importance of lifelong learning in harnessing increasingly rapid innovations in tech.
How to Start A Career in Blockchain
Authors: Lucas Matt
Published: December 2020

Matt Lucas FBCS, IBM Blockchain Enablement Lead, talks about how to get started with this innovative and exciting technology.
How to Become an Effective Leader
Authors: Melsom Blair
Published: December 2020

Richard Amafonye, CIO at Wema Bank, Nigeria, shares the secrets to being an effective leader, including the importance of creating harmony and giving people the freedom they need to get the job done. Blair Melsom MBCS reports.
Cybersecurity Report 2020
Authors: Runciman Brian
Published: December 2020

BCS’ latest research asked members — both of BCS security specialist groups and IT professionals in general — about their view on the state of IT security now. Nearly 700 members responded with some fascinating insights. Brian Runciman MBCS reports.
Spotlight On: BCS Hong Kong
Authors: Choi Peter
Published: December 2020

Our international hubs are located across Europe, North America, Asia and Africa, supporting our member communities in these areas with a platform for networking, professional development and debate. Peter Choi MBCS, Chair of the Hong Kong International Section, completes the ITNOW Q&A about the group
Embracing Inclusivity in the Tech Industry
Authors: Melsom Blair
Published: December 2020

Nzube Ufodike — Chair of new BCS Specialist Group, EMBRACE — speaks to Blair Melsom MBCS about why now is the right time for a group dedicated to supporting marginalised communities and diversifying membership.
The Differential Metabolic Profiles Between Deltamethrin-Resistant and -Susceptible Strains ofAedes albopictus(Diptera: Culicidae) by 1H-NMR
Authors: Huang Lianfen , Li Jun , Peng Lilan , Xie Ruili , Su Xinghua , He Peiqing , Xu Jiabao , Jia Zhirong , Luo Xiaoting , Chen Xiao-Guang , Li Hua
Published: December 2020

Metabolomics can indicate the physiological and biochemical responses of mosquitoes to different stimulants, including insecticides, which allow them to adapt to different inhospitable environments. Though metabolic differences between insecticide-resistant and -susceptible strains have been established for other mosquito species, such as Anopheles and Culex, it is yet to be done for Aedes albopictus (Skuse). In this study, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy–based metabolomic analysis performed on Ae. albopictus deltamethrin-resistant and -susceptible strains showed significant differences in amino acid, organic acid, and sugar metabolism. Concentrations of neutral amino acids and sugars tended to be lower in the deltamethrin-resistant strain than in the deltamethrin-suceptible strain, but the concentration of basic and acidic amino acids and organic acids increased. All these changes might accommodate biochemical and physiological needs in deltamethrin-resistant mosquitoes, such as enzyme synthesis and detoxification. This was further confirmed by the predictable draft metabolic map. This is the first report using NMR spectroscopy to investigate the metabolic differences between deltamethrin-resistant and -susceptible strains of Ae. albopictus. To a certain degree, this demonstrates how Ae. albopictus develop insecticide resistance by metabolic reprograming to survive under the insecticide pressure.
Attainment of 40.5 pm spatial resolution using 300 kV scanning transmission electron microscope equipped with fifth-order aberration corrector
Authors: Morishita Shigeyuki , Ishikawa Ryo , Kohno Yuji , Sawada Hidetaka , Shibata Naoya , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: December 2020

The achievement of a fine electron probe for high-resolution imaging in scanning transmission electron microscopy requires technological developments, especially in electron optics. For this purpose, we developed a microscope with a fifth-order aberration corrector that operates at 300 kV. The contrast flat region in an experimental Ronchigram, which indicates the aberration-free angle, was expanded to 70 mrad. By using a probe with convergence angle of 40 mrad in the scanning transmission electron microscope at 300 kV, we attained the spatial resolution of 40.5 pm, which is the projected interatomic distance between Ga–Ga atomic columns of GaN observed along [212] direction.
Traumatic superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome: case report and literature review
Authors: Aladham Youssef , Ahmed Omar , Hassan Saad Ahmed Saad , Francis-Khoury Elias
Published: December 2020

Superior semicircular canal dehiscence (SSCD) syndrome was first reported in 1998 by Minor et al. and comprises a spectrum of auditory and vestibular symptoms as a result of ‘mobile third window’ mechanism. The aetiology of SSCD is debated, but persistent infantile microstructure of the temporal bone was suggested. However, some authors related a ‘second event’, such as closed head trauma, temporal bone fracture and sudden increase in the intracranial pressure to the precipitation of its symptoms. In this article, we report a patient with a closed head trauma who developed unilateral auditory symptoms. High-resolution computed tomography images were obtained and confirmed bilateral SSCD with the normal middle ear structure. The patient was provided with a monaural hearing aid. Literature was searched for similar case reports or series where head trauma precipitated the symptoms of SSCD in anatomically susceptible individuals.
Rest-activity rhythm disturbance in liver cirrhosis and association with cognitive impairment
Authors: Kim Minjee , Liotta Eric M , Maas Matthew B , Braun Rosemary I , Garcia-Canga Blas , Ganger Daniel R , Ladner Daniela P , Reid Kathryn J , Zee Phyllis C
Published: December 2020

Cognitive impairment and disturbed sleep–wake rhythms are disabling complications of liver cirrhosis, yet there is limited understanding of how they are related. We tested the hypothesis that alterations of sleep, rest-activity, and light exposure patterns are associated with worse cognition in cirrhosis. A total of 54 ambulatory adult patients with cirrhosis and 41 age-/gender-matched healthy controls wore wrist actigraphy for rest-activity and light measurements and completed Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System sleep instruments for self-reported sleep quality. We used standard nonparametric descriptors to characterize rest-activity and light patterns, and wake after sleep onset and sleep efficiency to assess objective sleep quality. The NIH Toolbox cognition battery was used for objective cognitive evaluation using T-scores from a demographically adjusted population reference. Spearman’s correlation and multivariable models were used to explore associations between measures of cognition, sleep, rest-activity, and light. Cognition was significantly impaired in cirrhosis patients. Sleep quality was worse in cirrhosis patients by subjective and objective measures compared with controls. Cirrhosis patients exhibited fragmented and dampened rest-activity rhythms, lower daytime and higher nighttime light exposure compared with controls. Worse working memory and processing speed was associated with lower daytime activity level, higher rest-activity fragmentation, lower day-to-day stability, and greater nocturnal light exposure. No association was found between cognition and sleep quality. Rest-activity fragmentation and abnormal light exposure patterns are common in patients with liver disease and are associated with the severity of cognitive impairment. Further research is needed to investigate the effects of timed bright light and exercise intervention on cognitive function in patients with liver disease.