bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of Inflammation and Immune Responses by Heme Oxygenase-1: Implications for Infection with Intracellular Pathogens
Authors: Costa Diego L. , Amaral Eduardo P. , Andrade Bruno B. , Sher Alan
Published: November 2020

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) catalyzes the degradation of heme molecules releasing equimolar amounts of biliverdin, iron and carbon monoxide. Its expression is induced in response to stress signals such as reactive oxygen species and inflammatory mediators with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive consequences for the host. Interestingly, several intracellular pathogens responsible for major human diseases have been shown to be powerful inducers of HO-1 expression in both host cells and in vivo. Studies have shown that this HO-1 response can be either host detrimental by impairing pathogen control or host beneficial by limiting infection induced inflammation and tissue pathology. These properties make HO-1 an attractive target for host-directed therapy (HDT) of the diseases in question, many of which have been difficult to control using conventional antibiotic approaches. Here we review the mechanisms by which HO-1 expression is induced and how the enzyme regulates inflammatory and immune responses during infection with a number of different intracellular bacterial and protozoan pathogens highlighting mechanistic commonalities and differences with the goal of identifying targets for disease intervention.
The Physiological Implications of S-Nitrosoglutathione Reductase (GSNOR) Activity Mediating NO Signalling in Plant Root Structures
Authors: Ventimiglia Leslie , Mutus Bulent
Published: November 2020

Nitrogen remains an important macronutrient in plant root growth due to its application in amino acid production, in addition to its more elusive role in cellular signalling through nitric oxide (NO). NO is widely accepted as an important signalling oxidative radical across all organisms, leading to its study in a wide range of biological pathways. Along with its more stable NO donor, S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), formed by NO non-enzymatically in the presence of glutathione (GSH), NO is a redox-active molecule capable of mediating target protein cysteine thiols through the post translational modification, S-nitrosation. S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) thereby acts as a mediator to pathways regulated by NO due to its activity in the irreversible reduction of GSNO to oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and ammonia. GSNOR is thought to be pleiotropic and often acts by mediating the cellular environment in response to stress conditions. Under optimal conditions its activity leads to growth by transcriptional upregulation of the nitrate transporter, NRT2.1, and through its interaction with phytohormones like auxin and strigolactones associated with root development. However, in response to highly nitrosative and oxidative conditions its activity is often downregulated, possibly through an S-nitrosation site on GSNOR at cys271, Though GSNOR knockout mutated plants often display a stunted growth phenotype in all structures, they also tend to exhibit a pre-induced protective effect against oxidative stressors, as well as an improved immune response associated with NO accumulation in roots.
Neuroprotective Potential of Verbascoside Isolated from Acanthus mollis L. Leaves through Its Enzymatic Inhibition and Free Radical Scavenging Ability
Authors: Burgos Carmen , Muñoz-Mingarro Dolores , Navarro Inmaculada , Martín-Cordero Carmen , Acero Nuria
Published: November 2020

The phenomenon of today’s ageing population has increased interest in the search for new active substances that delay the onset and development of neurodegenerative diseases. In this respect, the search for natural compounds, mainly phenolic compounds, with neuroprotective activity has become the focus of growing interest. Verbascoside is a phenylethanoid that has already presented several pharmacological activities. The purpose of this study is to isolate and identify verbascoside from Acanthus mollis leaves. Consequently, its neuroprotective ability through enzymatic inhibition and free radical scavenging ability has been analyzed both in vitro and in cell culture assays. The antioxidant capacity of verbascoside was evaluated in vitro through total antioxidant capacity, DPPH•, •OH, and O2•—scavenging activity assays. The effect of verbascoside on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels of HepG2 and SH-SY5Y cell lines was studied in normal culture and under induced oxidative stress. The inhibitory ability of the phenylethanoid against several enzymes implied in neurodegenerative diseases (tyrosinase, MAO-A, and AChE) was analyzed in vitro. Verbascoside neuroprotective activity is at least in part related to its free radical scavenging ability. The effect of verbascoside on ROS production suggests its potential in the prevention of harmful cell redox changes and in boosting neuroprotection.
The Capacitated Location-Allocation Problem Using the VAOMP (Vector Assignment Ordered Median Problem) Unified Approach in GIS (Geospatial Information Systam)
Authors: Vafaeinejad Alireza , Bolouri Samira , Alesheikh Ali Asghar , Panahi Mahdi , Lee Chang-Wook
Published: November 2020

The Vector Assignment Ordered Median Problem (VAOMP) is a new unified approach for location-allocation problems, which are one of the most important forms of applied analysis in GIS (Geospatial Information System). Solving location-allocation problems with exact methods is difficult and time-consuming, especially when the number of objectives and criteria increases. One of the most important criteria in location-allocation problems is the capacity of facilities. Firstly, this study develops a new VAOMP approach by including capacity as a criterion, resulting in a new model known as VAOCMP (Vector Assignment Ordered Capacitated Median Problem). Then secondly, the results of applying VAOMP, in scenario 1, and VAOCMP, in scenario 2, for the location-allocation of fire stations in Tehran, with the objective of minimizing the arrival time of fire engines to an incident site to no more than 5 min, are examined using both the Tabu Search and Simulated Annealing algorithms in GIS. The results of scenario 1 show that 52,840 demands were unable to be served with 10 existing stations. In scenario 2, given that each facility could not accept demand above its capacity, the number of demands without service increased to 59,080, revealing that the number of stations in the study area is insufficient. Adding 35 candidate stations and performing relocation-reallocation revealed that at least three other stations are needed for optimal service. Thirdly, and finally, the VAOMP and VAOCMP were implemented in a modest size problem. The implementation results for both algorithms showed that the Tabu Search algorithm performed more effectively.
The Creation of a Multiallele Knockout Genotype in Rabbit Using CRISPR/Cas9 and Its Application in Translational Medicine
Authors: Pintér Tímea , Geiszt Miklós , Petheő Gábor L. , Mihálffy Máté , Skoda Gabriella , Lipták Nándor , Kerekes Andrea , Bősze Zsuzsanna , Hiripi László , Bodrogi Lilla
Published: November 2020

Nonrodent animal models have recently become more valuable in preclinical studies. The limitation of nonrodent animal models is that they must demonstrate relatively reliable and predictable responses in addition to representing complex etiologies of a genetically diverse patient population. In our study, we applied CRISPR/Cas9 technology to produce transgenic rabbits. This approach can be useful for creating genetically divergent and homogeneous populations for studies in translational medicine. NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) is a promising therapeutic target, as it is linked to several pathologies including stroke, atherosclerosis, and lung and kidney fibrosis. NOX4 knockout (KO) rabbit lines were created in order to study the in vivo effects resulting from a lack of NOX4 protein and loss of gene function. One of the knockout founders was a germline multiallelic knockout male. Its offspring segregated into three distinct NOX4 knockout and a wild-type lines. Mosaicism is a relatively frequent phenomenon in rabbit transgenesis. Our results point to the possible application of mosaicism in preclinical studies. However, careful planning and evaluation of results are necessary. The predicted off-target sites were studied as well, and no signs of off-target events were detected.
Energy Absorption of Aluminium Extrusions Filled with Cellular Materials Under Axial Crushing: Study of the Interaction Effect
Authors: Paz Javier , Costas Miguel , Delgado Jordi , Romera Luis , Díaz Jacobo
Published: November 2020

This investigation focuses on the interaction effect during the quasi-static axial crushing of circular and square thin-walled aluminium extrusions filled with polymeric foam or cork. The increment in the absorbed energy due to interactions between materials was assessed using a validated numerical model calibrated with experimental material data. Simulations were run with variable cross-section dimensions, thickness, and foam density. The results were used to adjust the parameters of design formulas to predict the average crush forces of foam- and cork-filled thin-walled tubes. The analysis of the energy dissipation per unit volume revealed that the highest increments due to the interaction between materials appeared in the foam-filled square extrusions. Energy dissipation increased with higher density foams for both cross-sections due to a stronger constraint of the aluminium walls, and thus a reduction of the folding length. Thinner tube walls also delivered a higher improvement in the energy dissipation per unit volume than those with thicker walls. The contribution of friction was also quantified and investigated.
Numerical Analysis-Based Blast Resistance Performance Assessment of Cable-Stayed Bridge Components Subjected to Blast Loads
Authors: Lee Jungwhee , Choi Keunki , Chung Chulhun
Published: November 2020

Cable-stayed bridges are infrastructure facilities of a highly public nature; therefore, it is essential to ensure operational safety and prompt response in the event of a collapse or damage, which are caused by natural and social disasters. Among social disasters, blast accidents can occur in cable-stayed bridges as a result of explosions produced by vehicle collisions or terrorist attacks; this can lead to the degradation in their structural performances and subsequent collapse. In this research, a procedure to assess structural blast-resistance performance is suggested based on a numerical analysis approach, and the feasibility of the procedure is demonstrated by performing an example assessment. The suggested procedure includes (1) selection of major structural components that severely affect the global structural behavior, (2) set-up blast hazard scenarios consisting of various blast levels and locations, and (3) assessment of the components using numerical blast simulation. By performing an example assessment, the critical blast level for each component could be determined and the blast location that affects the considering components the most severely could be found as well. The scenario-based assessment process employed in this study is expected to facilitate the evaluation of bridge structures under blasts in both existing bridges and future designs.
Experimental and Numerical Assessment of a Novel All-In-One Adsorption Thermal Storage with Zeolite for Thermal Solar Applications
Authors: Di Palo Michelangelo , Sabatelli Vincenzo , Buzzi Fulvio , Gabbrielli Roberto
Published: November 2020

The paper discusses the performances of a novel all-in-one adsorption thermal storage based on steam vapour and zeolite 13X for industrial end-users. Steam production/condensation for the adsorption/desorption processes are executed within the same vacuum reactor, where the zeolite is heated and cooled by the thermal fluid which flows within a heat exchanger. Both experimental approach and numerical method are used to assess the behaviour and energy performances of the novel system. So, a medium-scale prototype was constructed and some experimental tests for the charging and discharging phases were carried out, producing useful data for the validation of a time-dependent model of the adsorption/desorption processes, which resulted very reliable in the simulation of the thermal storage system. The charging and discharging efficiency of thermal energy can reach values higher than 80% and 50%, respectively. The experimental campaign and the simulative activities highlighted some operative criticalities of the all-in-one thermal storage system and suggested some possible technical improvements to face and solve them.
Changes in Growth and Production of Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Induced by Pre-Sowing Treatment of Hemp Seeds with Cold Plasma, Vacuum and Electromagnetic Field
Authors: Ivankov Anatolii , Nauciene Zita , Zukiene Rasa , Degutyte-Fomins Laima , Malakauskiene Asta , Kraujalis Paulius , Venskutonis Petras Rimantas , Filatova Irina , Lyushkevich Veronika , Mildaziene Vida
Published: November 2020

In this study, the effects of seed treatments with different stressors, such as cold plasma (CP), a vacuum and an electromagnetic field (EMF), on the in vitro germination of industrial hemp cv. Futura 75 were compared with the effects on germination in the field, plant growth, and the amount of major cannabinoids in the leaves and inflorescences of female plants. CP and EMF (but not vacuum) treatments improved in vitro seed germination, but had no impact on germination in the field. EMF treatment increased the weight of the above-ground part of male and female plants grown for 4 months by 65–70% and the number of female inflorescences by 70%. CP stimulated the growth of male plants (weight increased 1.4 times) but reduced the growth of female plants. Vacuum treatment did not induce changes in the growth of female and male plants. Vacuum and EMF treatments did not change the amount of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), but CP decreased the CBDA content in hemp leaves by 41%. Vacuum treatment increased the amount of CBDA in female plant inflorescences by 26%. Thus, hemp seed treatment with EMF has a potential application for increasing the biomass of female plants. CP treatment can be used to increase male plant production while vacuum treatment can stimulate CBD production.
Iterative Refinement of Uniformly Focused Image Set for Accurate Depth from Focus
Authors: Salokhiddinov Sherzod , Lee Seungkyu
Published: November 2020

Estimating the 3D shape of a scene from differently focused set of images has been a practical approach for 3D reconstruction with color cameras. However, reconstructed depth with existing depth from focus (DFF) methods still suffer from poor quality with textureless and object boundary regions. In this paper, we propose an improved depth estimation based on depth from focus iteratively refining 3D shape from uniformly focused image set (UFIS). We investigated the appearance changes in spatial and frequency domains in iterative manner. In order to achieve sub-frame accuracy in depth estimation, optimal location of focused frame in DFF is estimated by fitting a polynomial curve on the dissimilarity measurements. In order to avoid wrong depth values on texture-less regions we propose to build a confidence map and use it to identify erroneous depth estimations. We evaluated our method on public and our own datasets obtained from different types of devices, such as smartphones, medical, and normal color cameras. Quantitative and qualitative evaluations on various test image sets show promising performance of the proposed method in depth estimation.
Performance Analysis of NoSQL and Relational Databases with CouchDB and MySQL for Application’s Data Storage
Authors: Győrödi Cornelia A. , Dumşe-Burescu Diana V. , Zmaranda Doina R. , Győrödi Robert Ş. , Gabor Gianina A. , Pecherle George D.
Published: November 2020

In the current context of emerging several types of database systems (relational and non-relational), choosing the type and database system for storing large amounts of data in today’s big data applications has become an important challenge. In this paper, we aimed to provide a comparative evaluation of two popular open-source database management systems (DBMSs): MySQL as a relational DBMS and, more recently, as a non-relational DBMS, and CouchDB as a non-relational DBMS. This comparison was based on performance evaluation of CRUD (CREATE, READ, UPDATE, DELETE) operations for different amounts of data to show how these two databases could be modeled and used in an application and highlight the differences in the response time and complexity. The main objective of the paper was to make a comparative analysis of the impact that each specific DBMS has on application performance when carrying out CRUD requests. To perform the analysis and to ensure the consistency of tests, two similar applications were developed in Java, one using MySQL and the other one using CouchDB database; these applications were further used to evaluate the time responses for each database technology on the same CRUD operations on the database. Finally, a comprehensive discussion based on the results of the analysis was performed that centered on the results obtained and several conclusions were revealed. Advantages and drawbacks for each DBMS are outlined to support a decision for choosing a specific type of DBMS that could be used in a big data application.
A Hybrid Soft Actuator Inspired by Grass-Spike: Design Approach, Dynamic Model, and Applications
Authors: Choi Dong-Woon , Lee Cho-Won , Lee Duk-Yeon , Lee Dong-Wook , Yoon Han-Ul
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the bio-mimetic design approach, the dynamic model, and potential applications for a hybrid soft actuator. The proposed hybrid soft actuator consists of two main parts: a cylinder-shaped rigid core and soft silicone spikes wrapped around the core’s surface. The key idea of the proposed design approach is to mimic the movement of a grass-spike at a functional level by converting the vibration force generated by a small electric motor with a counterweight in the rigid core into a propulsion force produced by the elastic restoration of the spikes. One advantage of this design approach is that the hybrid soft actuator does not need to be tethered by a tube line from an air compressor and is more amenable to fine control. In addition, the hybrid soft actuator can be modularized with a wire and a tubular passage, which in turn work as a linear actuator. The dynamic model of the hybrid soft actuator can be derived by applying Lagrangian mechanics, and unknown system parameters can be identified by the optimization process based on the empirical data. Two applications—an elbow manipulator and a robotic hand grasper—demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed actuator to perform a muscle-tendon action successfully.
Effect of Injecting Epoxy Resin Adhesive into Cement Mortar on Tile Adhesion Performance
Authors: Lee Sangkyu , Lee Sangyun , Kim Gyuyong , Son Minjae , Choe Gyeongcheol , Lee Jaehyun , Nam Jeongsoo
Published: November 2020

Large porcelain tiles have attracted increased demand owing to their cost-effectiveness and superior esthetics. Here, an epoxy resin adhesive was injected into cement mortar, which was then applied to tiles. The adhesion performance of the tiles was subsequently evaluated in terms of the permeability and drying shrinkage under various curing conditions. The epoxy resin adhesive not only penetrated the tile–mortar and mortar–concrete interfaces, but also directly penetrated the mortar, thus enhancing the mechanical adhesion at each interface. In addition to the mechanical adhesion between the tiles and mortar, the epoxy resin adhesive prevents the degradation of adhesion due to shear stress by minimizing the moisture evaporation and shrinkage of the mortar. Evaluation of the adhesion characteristics under water and freeze–thaw curing conditions revealed the vulnerability of the epoxy resin to moisture; however, adequate adhesion performance was observed when the epoxy resin was air-cured prior to being exposed to harsh environments. Moreover, the injection method did not prolong the construction period, but could potentially reduce it during actual application. Nevertheless, further research on the adhesion performance of tiles with injected epoxy resin adhesive is required to evaluate the long-term durability.
Multiscale Analytical Method and Its Parametric Study for Lining Joint Leakage of Shield Tunnel
Authors: Wang Yajian , Yang Yuyou , Su Fei , Wang Linbing
Published: November 2020

Understanding the underlying processes of lining joint leakage is essential for predicting its waterproofing performance, improving the design, and assessing its operational health in shield tunnels. There is little literature reported on a leakage model that can reflect various influencing factors. This article introduced an analytical method for predicting joint leakage based on recently developed multi-scale contact mechanics: the Persson model. In addition, the critical leakage state and the self-sealing effect were defined, and an approach to calculate the critical leakage pressure, as well as self-sealing stress, were deduced. Then, taking the second Dapu Road Tunnel in Shanghai as a case study, the influence of various factors, including the gap and offset of joints, the roughness of sealing materials, the service time, and groundwater pressure on the lining joint leakage, was calculated. The applicability of the model was verified by comparing the calculated results with the experimental data and monitoring data in the literature. This research could contribute to understanding the development process of seepage in sealing engineering and provide a reference for waterproof design and the performance assessment of shield tunnels’ lining joints.
Effectiveness of Training Prescription Guided by Heart Rate Variability Versus Predefined Training for Physiological and Aerobic Performance Improvements: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Medellín Ruiz Juan Pablo , Rubio-Arias Jacobo Ángel , Clemente-Suarez Vicente Javier , Ramos-Campo Domingo Jesús
Published: November 2020

A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine if heart rate variability-guided training (HRV-g), compared to predefined training (PT), maximizes the further improvement of endurance physiological and performance markers in healthy individuals. This analysis included randomized controlled trials assessing the effects of HRV-g vs. PT on endurance physiological and performance markers in untrained, physically active, and well-trained subjects. Eight articles qualified for inclusion. HRV-g training significantly improved maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) (MD = 2.84, CI: 1.41, 4.27; p < 0.0001), maximum aerobic power or speed (WMax) (SMD = 0.66, 95% CI 0.33, 0.98; p < 0.0001), aerobic performance (SMD = 0.71, CI 0.16, 1.25; p = 0.01) and power or speed at ventilatory thresholds (VT) VT1 (SMD = 0.62, CI 0.04, 1.20; p = 0.04) and VT2 (SMD = 0.81, CI 0.41, 1.22; p < 0.0001). However, HRV-g did not show significant differences in VO2max (MD = 0.96, CI −1.11, 3.03; p = 0.36), WMax (SMD = 0.06, CI −0.26, 0.38; p = 0.72), or aerobic performance (SMD = 0.14, CI −0.22, 0.51; p = 0.45) in power or speed at VT1 (SMD = 0.27, 95% CI −0.16, 0.70; p = 0.22) or VT2 (SMD = 0.18, 95% CI −0.20, 0.57; p = 0.35), when compared to PT. Although HRV-based training periodization improved both physiological variables and aerobic performance, this method did not provide significant benefit over PT.
Advanced Modelling Techniques for Resonator Based Dielectric and Semiconductor Materials Characterization
Authors: Gungor Arif Can , Olszewska-Placha Marzena , Celuch Malgorzata , Smajic Jasmin , Leuthold Juerg
Published: November 2020

This article reports recent developments in modelling based on Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) and Finite Element Method (FEM) for dielectric resonator material measurement setups. In contrast to the methods of the dielectric resonator design, where analytical expansion into Bessel functions is used to solve the Maxwell equations, here the analytical information is used only to ensure the fixed angular variation of the fields, while in the longitudinal and radial direction space discretization is applied, that reduced the problem to 2D. Moreover, when the discretization is performed in time domain, full-wave electromagnetic solvers can be directly coupled to semiconductor drift-diffusion solvers to better understand and predict the behavior of the resonator with semiconductor-based samples. Herein, FDTD and frequency domain FEM approaches are applied to the modelling of dielectric samples and validated against the measurements within the 0.3% margin dictated by the IEC norm. Then a coupled in-house developed multiphysics time-domain FEM solver is employed in order to take the local conductivity changes under electromagnetic illumination into account. New methodologies are thereby demonstrated that open the way to new applications of the dielectric resonator measurements.
Analysis of Dimensional Tolerances on Hydraulic and Acoustic Properties of a New Type of Prototypal Gear Pumps
Authors: Deptuła Adam , Osiński Piotr , Partyka Marian A.
Published: November 2020

This study focuses on the construction of a prototype series of pumps. The technological capabilities of the entire series of gear pumps with a three-poly-involute outline were determined. We developed neural networks to analyze the dimensional tolerance and composition of the pump components and impact on the distribution for the constructed units. The most crucial dimensions to control were then determined—namely, dimensional and form tolerance were necessary—with a reduction in accuracy classification where it is less important. Measurements of acoustic quantities and of vibrations were also carried out. In conclusion, after positive verification, printed polyethylene wheels can be manufactured in greater, mass-produced quantities. Optimization techniques can then be applied, leading to reduced manufacturing costs and increased efficiency.
Comparative Study of Induction Motors of IE2, IE3 and IE4 Efficiency Classes in Pump Applications Taking into Account CO2 Emission Intensity
Authors: Goman Victor , Prakht Vladimir , Kazakbaev Vadim , Dmitrievskii Vladimir
Published: November 2020

The high energy intensity of the modern industry and the threat of climate change determine the high urgency of increasing the energy efficiency of electric motors. In this paper, energy consumption, energy costs, payback periods, and CO2 emissions of 75 kW, 4 pole induction motors with direct grid supply in a fixed-speed pump unit are evaluated. Motors of the IE2, IE3, and IE4 efficiency classes according to IEC 60034-30-1 standard are compared in terms of life-time energy savings, payback period, and CO2 emissions. To carry out the analysis, polynomial interpolation of the data from the available manufacturer datasheets of the motors is used. It concluded that even though the initial investment cost of the IE4-motor is higher than that of IE3-motor, the IE4-motor is more profitable if more than 3 years of operation are considered and also provides significant reductions of CO2 emissions. The paper presents a calculation method of the aforementioned indicators which can be useful for companies, researchers, and engineers for quick assessment and selection of technical solutions.
Linear System Identification and Vibration Control of End-Effector for Industrial Robots
Authors: Shan Xiaobiao , Song Henan , Zhang Chong , Wang Guangyan , Fan Jizhuang
Published: November 2020

This paper presents the discrete state space mathematical model of the end-effector in industrial robots and designs the linear-quadratic-Gaussian controller, called LQG controller for short, to solve the low frequency vibration problem. Though simplifying the end-effector as the cantilever beam, this paper uses the subspace identification method to determine the output dynamic response data and establishes the state space model. Experimentally comparing the influences of different input excitation signals, Chirp sequences from 0 Hz to 100 Hz are used as the final estimation signal and the excitation signal. The LQG controller is designed and simulated to achieve the low frequency vibration suppression of the structure. The results show that the suppression system can effectively suppress the fundamental natural frequency and lower vibration of end-effector. The vibration suppression percentage is 95%, and the vibration amplitude is successfully reduced from ±20 μm to ±1 μm. The present work provides an effective method to suppress the low frequency vibration of the end-effector for industrial robots.
Functional Foods and Food Supplements
Authors: Boggia Raffaella , Zunin Paola , Turrini Federica
Published: November 2020

This Special Issue aims to provide new findings and information with respect to healthy foods and biologically active food ingredients. Studies on the chemical, technological, and nutritional characteristics of healthy food ingredients will be taken into consideration as well as analytical methods for monitoring their quality. New findings on the bioavailability and the mechanism of action of food bioactive compounds will be considered. Moreover, studies on the rational design of potential new formulations, both of functional foods and of food supplements, have been taken into account.
Residual Life Prediction of Gas-Engine Turbine Blades Based on Damage Surrogate-Assisted Modeling
Authors: Vasilyev Boris , Nikolaev Sergei , Raevskiy Mikhail , Belov Sergei , Uzhinsky Ighor
Published: November 2020

Blade damage accounts for a substantial part of all failure events occurring at gas-turbine-engine power plants. Current operation and maintenance (O&M) practices typically use preventive maintenance approaches with fixed intervals, which involve high costs for repair and replacement activities, and substantial revenue losses. The recent development and evolution of condition-monitoring techniques and the fact that an increasing number of turbines in operation are equipped with online monitoring systems offer the decision maker a large amount of information on the blades’ structural health. So, predictive maintenance becomes feasible. It has the potential to predict the blades’ remaining life in order to support O&M decisions for avoiding major failure events. This paper presents a surrogate model and methodology for estimating the remaining life of a turbine blade. The model can be used within a predictive maintenance decision framework to optimize maintenance planning for the blades’ lifetime.
Structural Vibration Tests: Use of Artificial Neural Networks for Live Prediction of Structural Stress
Authors: Wilmes Laura , Olympio Raymond , de Payrebrune Kristin M. , Schatz Markus
Published: November 2020

One of the ongoing tasks in space structure testing is the vibration test, in which a given structure is mounted onto a shaker and excited by a certain input load on a given frequency range, in order to reproduce the rigor of launch. These vibration tests need to be conducted in order to ensure that the devised structure meets the expected loads of its future application. However, the structure must not be overtested to avoid any risk of damage. For this, the system’s response to the testing loads, i.e., stresses and forces in the structure, must be monitored and predicted live during the test. In order to solve the issues associated with existing methods of live monitoring of the structure’s response, this paper investigated the use of artificial neural networks (ANNs) to predict the system’s responses during the test. Hence, a framework was developed with different use cases to compare various kinds of artificial neural networks and eventually identify the most promising one. Thus, the conducted research accounts for a novel method for live prediction of stresses, allowing failure to be evaluated for different types of material via yield criteria.
Estimating Slump Flow and Compressive Strength of Self-Compacting Concrete Using Emotional Neural Networks
Authors: Kaloop Mosbeh R. , Samui Pijush , Shafeek Mohamed , Hu Jong Wan
Published: November 2020

The characteristics of fresh and hardened self-compacting concrete (SCC) are an essential requirement for construction projects. Moreover, the sensitivity of admixture contents of SCC in these properties is highly impacted by that cost. The current study investigates to estimate the slump-flow (S) and compressive strength (CS), as fresh and hardened properties of SCC, respectively. Four developed soft-computing approaches were proposed and compared, including the group method of data handling (GMDH), Minimax Probability Machine Regression (MPMR), emotional neural network (ENN), and hybrid artificial neural network-particle swarm optimization (ANN-PSO), to estimate the S and 28-day CS of SCC, which comprises fly ash (FA), silica fume (SF), and limestone powder (LP) as part of cement by mass in total powder content. In addition, the impact of eight admixture components is investigated and evaluated to assess the sensitivity of admixture contents for the modelling of S and CS of SCC. The results demonstrate that the performance prediction of ENN model is more significant than other models in estimating S and CS characteristics of SCC. The overall of Pearson correlation coefficient, r, and root mean square error (RMSE) of ENN model are 97.80% and 20.16 mm, respectively, for the S. These are 96.07% and 2.59 MPa, respectively, for the CS. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the powder content of fly ash is shown to have a high impact on the estimated S and CS values of SCC.
Palmprint False Acceptance Attack with a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN)
Authors: Wang Fei , Leng Lu , Teoh Andrew Beng Jin , Chu Jun
Published: November 2020

Biometric-based authentication is widely deployed on multimedia systems currently; however, biometric systems are vulnerable to image-level attacks for impersonation. Reconstruction attack (RA) and presentation attack (PA) are two typical instances for image-level attacks. In RA, the reconstructed images often have insufficient naturalness due to the presence of remarkable counterfeit appearance, thus their forgeries can be easily detected by machine or human. The PA requires genuine users’ original images, which are difficult to acquire in practice and to counterfeit fake biometric images on spoofing carriers. In this paper, we develop false acceptance attack (FAA) for a palmprint biometric, which overcomes the aforementioned problems of RA and PA. FAA does not require genuine users’ images, and it can be launched simply with the synthetic images with high naturalness, which are generated by the generative adversarial networks. As a case study, we demonstrate the feasibility of FAA against coding-based palmprint biometric systems. To further improve the efficiency of FAA, we employ a clustering method to select diverse fake images in order to enhance the diversity of the fake images used, so the number of attack times is reduced. Our experimental results show the success rate and effectiveness of the FAA.
Enhanced Growth of Mungbean and Remediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons by Enterobacter sp. MN17 and Biochar Addition in Diesel Contaminated Soil
Authors: Ali Muhammad Hayder , Sattar Muhammad Tayyab , Khan Muhammad Imran , Naveed Muhammad , Rafique Munazza , Alamri Saud , Siddiqui Manzer H.
Published: November 2020

Petroleum hydrocarbon (PHC) contamination of soil is a widespread global environmental concern due to the persistence and recalcitrant nature of PHCs. The PHCs are highly toxic and their removal from the terrestrial ecosystem is necessary to maintain soil as well as human health. Here, a pot experiment was performed to examine the impact of Enterobacter sp. MN17 and biochar addition on the growth of mungbean plants and PHCs removal from diesel-polluted soil. For this purpose, soil was contaminated artificially with diesel to achieve a final concentration of 5000 mg kg−1. Untreated and Enterobacter sp. MN17 treated mungbean seeds were sown in pots. Sugarcane bagasse biochar was applied as an amendment in respective pots along with the recommended levels of essential nutrients. Results showed that PHCs significantly suppressed the seedling emergence as well as agronomic and physiological attributes of mungbean as compared to un-contaminated controls. However, the co-application of Enterobacter sp. MN17 and biochar significantly reduced the phytotoxicity of PHCs to mungbean plants and effectively increased the seedling emergence, shoot and root length, shoot fresh and dry biomass, root fresh and dry biomass of plants up to 24%, 54%, 52%, 52%, 54%, 55% and 60%, respectively as compared to controls. Similarly, 30%, 57%, 64%, 36% and 57% increase in chlorophylls contents, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, sub-stomatal conductance, and photosynthetic rate, respectively were observed in their combined application as compared to respective controls. Furthermore, the co-addition of biochar and Enterobacter sp. MN17 could remove 69% and 85% higher PHCs from unplanted and planted pots, respectively, than that of their respective controls. Our results suggest that the co-application of biochar and Enterobacter sp. MN17 may be useful in enhancing plant growth and eliminating PHCs from contaminated soil.
Phase Change Materials and Their Benefits in ETICS
Authors: Sokola Lubomír , Žižková Nikol , Novák Vítězslav , Jakubík Aleš
Published: November 2020

Phase change materials (PCMs) are materials with the ability of absorption of latent heat based on a phase change. PCMs are able to store and release a large amount of energy at certain temperatures melting or freezing. The aim of the research is to verify whether this phenomenon (material) can be used within an external thermal insulation composite system (ETICS). This is particularly the usage of PCMs in the base coat. The research is focused on two main areas. The first area concerns the water condensation on the surface of the ETICS and the associated phenomenon of algae attack. The second area concerns the warming of ETICSs with the use of dark color shades. Practical experiments showed a positive effect of PCMs on the heat-storage properties of the ETICS base coat. It was also experimentally verified that the PCM sample did not condense water vapor on the sample surface compared to the reference sample.
A New Approach to Set the Absolute Midsagittal Plane of the Mandible Using a Similarity Index in Skeletal Class III Patients with Facial Asymmetry
Authors: Han Woo-Jin , Hwang Jae Joon , Jung Yun-Hoa , Cho Bong-Hae , Lee Kee-Joon , Yu Hyung-Seog , Choi Sung-Hwan
Published: November 2020

This study sought to test the feasibility of a newly developed plane called computed modified absolute mandibular midsagittal plane (cmAMP) based on the similarity index (SI) for evaluating the stereoscopical symmetry of the mandible by comparison with other proposed midsagittal planes. This study involved 29 adult patients (15 men, 14 women; average age, 23.1 ± 6.9 years) with skeletal Class III facial asymmetry who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery. Using cone-beam computed tomography images taken before and 1 year after surgery, cmAMP with the highest SI value between the two anterior segments of the hemi-mandible was set by a computer algorithm. Results show that the SI using cmAMP had the highest value (0.83 ± 0.04) before surgery compared to the other midsagittal planes, and was not significantly different from the SI (0.80 ± 0.05) using a facial midsagittal plane (MSP) after surgery. The distance (1.15 ± 0.74 mm) and angle (2.02 ± 0.82°) between MSP and cmAMP after surgery were significantly smaller than those between MSP and other midsagittal planes. In conclusion, the cmAMP plane best matches the two anterior segments of hemi-mandible symmetrically and is the closest to MSP after orthognathic surgery in skeletal Class III patients with facial asymmetry.
Pyr1,xTFSI Ionic Liquids (x = 1–8): A Computational Chemistry Study
Authors: Brutti Sergio
Published: November 2020

Pyrrolidinium-based (Pyr) ionic liquids are a very wide family of molecular species. Pyrrolidinium cations are electrochemically stable in a large potential interval and their molecular size hinders their transport properties. The corresponding ionic liquids with trifluoromethyl sulphonyl imide anions are excellent solvents for lithium/sodium salts and have been demonstrated as electrolytes in aprotic batteries with enhanced safety standards. In this study, the analysis of the physicochemical properties of a homologous series of pyrrolidinium-based ionic liquids with general formula Pyr1,xTFSI (x = 1–8) have been tackled by first principles calculations based on the density functional theory. The molecular structures of isolated ions and ion pairs have been predicted by electronic structure calculations at B3LYP level of theory in vacuum or in simulated solvents. Thermodynamic properties have been calculated to evaluate the ion pairs dissociation and oxidation/reduction stability. This is the first systematic computational analysis of this series of molecules with a specific focus on the impact of the length of the alkyl chain on the pyrrolidinium cation on the overall physicochemical properties of the ion pairs.
Lean Manual Assembly 4.0: A Systematic Review
Authors: Miqueo Adrian , Torralba Marta , Yagüe-Fabra José A.
Published: November 2020

In a demand context of mass customization, shifting towards the mass personalization of products, assembly operations face the trade-off between highly productive automated systems and flexible manual operators. Novel digital technologies—conceptualized as Industry 4.0—suggest the possibility of simultaneously achieving superior productivity and flexibility. This article aims to address how Industry 4.0 technologies could improve the productivity, flexibility and quality of assembly operations. A systematic literature review was carried out, including 234 peer-reviewed articles from 2010–2020. As a result, the analysis was structured addressing four sets of research questions regarding (1) assembly for mass customization; (2) Industry 4.0 and performance evaluation; (3) Lean production as a starting point for smart factories, and (4) the implications of Industry 4.0 for people in assembly operations. It was found that mass customization brings great complexity that needs to be addressed at different levels from a holistic point of view; that Industry 4.0 offers powerful tools to achieve superior productivity and flexibility in assembly; that Lean is a great starting point for implementing such changes; and that people need to be considered central to Assembly 4.0. Developing methodologies for implementing Industry 4.0 to achieve specific business goals remains an open research topic.
Is My Patient Improving? Individualized Gait Analysis in Rehabilitation
Authors: Marin Javier , Marin Jose J. , Blanco Teresa , de la Torre Juan , Salcedo Inmaculada , Martitegui Elena
Published: November 2020

In the rehabilitation field, clinicians are continually struggling to assess improvements in patients following interventions. In this paper, we propose an approach to use gait analysis based on inertial motion capture (MoCap) to monitor individuals during rehabilitation. Gait is a cyclical movement that generates a sufficiently large data sample in each capture session to statistically compare two different sessions from a single patient. Using this crucial idea, 21 heterogeneous patients with hemiplegic spasticity were assessed using gait analysis before and after receiving treatment with botulinum toxin injections. Afterwards, the two sessions for each patient were compared using the magnitude-based decision statistical method. Due to the challenge of classifying changes in gait variables such as improvements or impairments, assessing each patient’s progress required an interpretative process. After completing this process, we determined that 10 patients showed overall improvement, five patients showed overall impairment, and six patients did not show any overall change. Finally, the interpretation process was summarized by developing guidelines to aid in future assessments. In this manner, our approach provides graphical information about the patients’ progress to assess improvement following intervention and to support decision-making. This research contributes to integrating MoCap-based gait analysis into rehabilitation.
Crack Detection and Crack Length Measurement with the DC Potential Drop Method–Possibilities, Challenges and New Developments
Authors: Bär Jürgen
Published: November 2020

The direct current potential drop method (DCPDM) is widely used to determine the crack length in fatigue experiments. In practice, some special features of this method must be considered. Aside from general information on the experimental setup and calibration, some special features of the method, such as the influence of the ambient atmosphere and the application of the method to ferromagnetic materials, are presented and discussed. In addition, with the multiple potential drop measurement, a method is presented which improves the resolution of the DCPDM for detection of cracks and allows to determine crack initiation sites. The capabilities provided by this method are demonstrated on the basis of measurements undertaken on notched round bars and single edged notched specimens.
Tetragonia tetragonoides (Pall.) Kuntze Restores Blood Perfusion from Hind-Limb Ischemic Mice
Authors: Yang Hyun , Jung Dong Ho , Lee Hye Won , Lee Dongoh , Ko Byoung Seob
Published: November 2020

Tetragonia tetragonoides (Pall.) Kuntze (TTK) is grown for the edible leaves, and can be used as food. And which commonly called Beonhaengcho in Republic of Korea. TTK is found along the seaside of the Jeju-Island and it has long been consumed as a food for women’s health. We investigated the effects of TTK on peripheral circulation disorder during menopausal transition and/or menopause in a hind-limb ischemic (HLI) mouse model. Chemotactic motility and tube formation of vascular epithelial cells were evaluated in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Female C57BL/6 mice were fed a TTK (150 or 450 mg/kg/day) for four weeks and the rate of blood flow was assessed using a laser Doppler after HLI. TTK treatment significantly increased cell migration and the branch interval value of tubular structure in a dose-dependently. In the TTK treatment group, blood flow rate was significant induced at 7, 14, and 28 days after HLI, compared with the vehicle. TTK treatment also an increase in capillary density, and the highest levels of pERK(1/2), pAkt, pPLCγ1 and pFAK proteins compared to the vehicle control. These results suggest that extract of TTK may ameliorate the blood flow via improvement of peripheral angiogenesis under hind-limb ischemic stress in a menopausal mouse model.
Buffer Allocation via Bottleneck-Based Variable Neighborhood Search
Authors: Gao Sixiao , Higashi Toshimitsu , Kobayashi Toyokazu , Taneda Kosuke , Rubrico Jose I. U. , Ota Jun
Published: November 2020

This study addresses the challenging problem of efficient buffer allocation in production lines. Suitable locations for buffer allocation are determined to satisfy the desired throughput, while a suitable balance between solution quality and computation time is achieved. A throughput calculation approach that yields the state probability of production lines is adopted to evaluate the effectiveness of candidate buffer allocation solutions. To generate candidate buffer allocation solutions, an active probability index based on state probability is proposed to rapidly detect suitable locations of buffer allocations. A variable neighborhood search algorithm is used to maintain acceptable solution quality; an additional neighborhood structure is used in the case where no satisfactory solution is generated in the initial neighborhood structure. Extensive numerical experiments demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach. The proposed approach can facilitate agile design of production lines in industry by rapidly estimating production line topologies.