bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Trailing Edge Deflections Driven by Shape Memory Alloy Actuators on the Transonic Aerodynamic Characteristics of a Super Critical Airfoil
Authors: Lv Binbin , Wang Yuanjing , Lei Pengxuan
Published: July 2021

A smart structure to actuate a morphing trailing edge based on the super critical airfoil NASA sc-0714(2) was designed and verified in a transonic wind tunnel. The pressure distribution over the wing was measured to evaluate the structure ability and effects of trailing edge deflections on the aerodynamic characteristics. In the experiment, Mach number was from 0.4 to 0.8, and the angle of attack was from 0° to 6°. The results showed that the smart structure based on shape memory alloy could carry aerodynamic loads under transonic flow and deflect the trailing edge. When the driving force was constant, deformation would be influenced by the Mach number and angle of attack. Increasing the Mach number weakened the actuation capability of the smart structure, which decreased the deflection angle and rate of the trailing edge. The influence of the angle of attack is more complex, and couples with the influence of the Mach number. The higher the Mach number, the stronger the influence of the angles of attack. Additionally, the trailing edge deflection would dramatically change the flow structure over the airfoil, such as the shock wave position and strength. If separation was caused by the trailing edge deflection, the limitation of the smart structure would be further found.
Fluid-Structure Interaction Modelling of a Soft Pneumatic Actuator
Authors: Maruthavanan Duraikannan , Seibel Arthur , Schlattmann Josef
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a fully coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) simulation model of a soft pneumatic actuator (SPA). Previous research on modelling and simulation of SPAs mostly involves finite element modelling (FEM), in which the fluid pressure is considered as pressure load uniformly acting on the internal walls of the actuator. However, FEM modelling does not capture the physics of the fluid flow inside an SPA. An accurate modelling of the physical behaviour of an SPA requires a two-way FSI analysis that captures and transfers information from fluid to solid and vice versa. Furthermore, the investigation of the fluid flow inside the flow channels and chambers of the actuator are vital for an understanding of the fluid energy distribution and the prediction of the actuator performance. The FSI modelling is implemented on a typical SPA and the flow behaviour inside the actuator is presented. Moreover, the bending behaviour of the SPA from the FSI simulation results is compared with a corresponding FEM simulation.
Challenges of Ablatively Cooled Hybrid Rockets for Satellites or Upper Stages
Authors: Barato Francesco
Published: July 2021

Ablative-cooled hybrid rockets could potentially combine a similar versatility of a liquid propulsion system with a much simplified architecture. These characteristics make this kind of propulsion attractive, among others, for applications such as satellites and upper stages. In this paper, the use of hybrid rockets for those situations is reviewed. It is shown that, for a competitive implementation, several challenges need to be addressed, which are not the general ones often discussed in the hybrid literature. In particular, the optimal thrust to burning time ratio, which is often relatively low in liquid engines, has a deep impact on the grain geometry, that, in turn, must comply some constrains. The regression rate sometime needs to be tailored in order to avoid unreasonable grain shapes, with the consequence that the dimensional trends start to follow some sort of counter-intuitive behavior. The length to diameter ratio of the hybrid combustion chamber imposes some packaging issues in order to compact the whole propulsion system. Finally, the heat soak-back during long off phases between multiple burns could compromise the integrity of the case and of the solid fuel. Therefore, if the advantages of hybrid propulsion are to be exploited, the aspects mentioned in this paper shall be carefully considered and properly faced.
Evaluation of Potato Varieties Grown in Hydroponics for Phosphorus Use Efficiency
Authors: Lee Wei-Chieh , Zotarelli Lincoln , Rowland Diane L. , Liu Guodong
Published: July 2021

Global phosphate mineral resources are nonrenewable and are inevitably depleting. Exploiting elite varieties has become imperative for the efficient use of phosphorus (P) for sustainable crop production. Three potato varieties were hydroponically evaluated for P mobilization, uptake, and utilization efficiencies at different P levels and sources during 28 d seedling growth. ‘Harley Blackwell’, ‘La Chipper’, and ‘Red LaSoda’ were selected from a previous study and grown in modified Hoagland solution, with different P concentrations of soluble high P as NaH2PO4 (10 mg L−1 P), soluble low P (1 mg L−1 P), and 286 mg L−1 sparingly soluble P as tri-calcium phosphate [TCP, Ca3(PO4)2] with 2286 mg L−1 CaSO4. ‘Harley Blackwell’ and ‘La Chipper’ had significantly greater biomass than ‘Red LaSoda’ in the low P or TCP treatments. In low-P stress, P utilization efficiency was significantly greater for ‘Harley Blackwell’ than that of the other two varieties. ‘Red LaSoda’ was more efficient in P mobilization from TCP as compared to the other two cultivars. The holistic score analysis indicated that ‘Harley Blackwell’ was the most P-efficient while ‘Red LaSoda’ was the least P-efficient. The results of this study show that the TCP solution was successful for screening P-efficient potato varieties.
Scheduling Regulated Deficit Irrigation with Leaf Water Potential of Cherry Tomato in Greenhouse and its Effect on Fruit Quality
Authors: Lipan Leontina , Issa-Issa Hanán , Moriana Alfonso , Zurita Noemí Medina , Galindo Alejandro , Martín-Palomo María José , Andreu Luis , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A. , Hernández Francisca , Corell Mireia
Published: July 2021

The tomato cultivated surface is one of the most important surfaces in the world. This crop needs a sufficient and continuous supply of water during vegetative growth. Therefore, production may be at risk in warm and water-scarce areas. Therefore, the implementation of irrigation alternatives such as regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) is of great importance to reduce the use of water and improve the production of the quality of tomatoes. The objective of this work was to evaluate the deficit irrigation scheduling using plant water status as a tool in deficit irrigation. Experimental design was a randomized design with four replications per treatment. Two irrigation treatments were applied: Control (125% of crop evapotranspiration (ETc)) and Regulated Deficit Irrigation (RDI). This latter treatment considered different threshold values of midday leaf water depending on crop phenological stage. No differences were observed in yield, with RDI treatment being more efficient in the use of irrigation water than the control. Besides, RDI tomatoes presented, in general, greater weight, size, Total soluble solids (TSS), sugars, antioxidant activity, lycopene, β-Carotene, and redder color with more intense tomatoes flavor. Finally, it might be said that RDI strategy helped to reduce 53% of irrigation water and to improve the nutritional, functional, and sensory quality of tomatoes.
Transcriptional Insights into Key Genes and Pathways Underlying Muscovy Duck Subcutaneous Fat Deposition at Different Developmental Stages
Authors: Guo Liping , Wei Congcong , Yi Li , Yang Wanli , Geng Zhaoyu , Chen Xingyong
Published: July 2021

Subcutaneous fat is a crucial trait for waterfowl, largely associated with meat quality and feed conversion rate. In this study, RNA-seq was used to identify differentially expressed genes of subcutaneous adipose tissue among three developmental stages (12, 35, and 66 weeks) in Muscovy duck. A total of 138 and 129 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between 35 and 12 weeks (wk), and 66 and 35 wk, respectively. Compared with 12 wk, subcutaneous fat tissue at 35 wk upregulated several genes related to cholesterol biosynthesis and fatty acid biosynthesis, including HSD17B7 and MSMO1, while it downregulated fatty acid beta-oxidation related genes, including ACOX1 and ACSL1. Notably, most of the DEGs (92.2%) were downregulated in 66 wk compared with 35 wk, consistent with the slower metabolism of aging duck. Protein network interaction and function analyses revealed GC, AHSG, FGG, and FGA were the key genes for duck subcutaneous fat from adult to old age. Additionally, the PPAR signaling pathway, commonly enriched between the two comparisons, might be the key pathway contributing to subcutaneous fat metabolism among differential developmental stages in Muscovy duck. These results provide several candidate genes and pathways potentially involved in duck subcutaneous fat deposition, expanding our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying subcutaneous fat deposition during development.
Use of Remote Camera Traps to Evaluate Animal-Based Welfare Indicators in Individual Free-Roaming Wild Horses
Authors: Harvey Andrea M. , Morton John M. , Mellor David J. , Russell Vibeke , Chapple Rosalie S. , Ramp Daniel
Published: July 2021

We previously developed a Ten-Stage Protocol for scientifically assessing the welfare of individual free-roaming wild animals using the Five Domains Model. The protocol includes developing methods for measuring or observing welfare indices. In this study, we assessed the use of remote camera traps to evaluate an extensive range of welfare indicators in individual free-roaming wild horses. Still images and videos were collected and analysed to assess whether horses could be detected and identified individually, which welfare indicators could be reliably evaluated, and whether behaviour could be quantitatively assessed. Remote camera trapping was successful in detecting and identifying horses (75% on still images and 72% on video observation events), across a range of habitats including woodlands where horses could not be directly observed. Twelve indicators of welfare across the Five Domains were assessed with equal frequency on both still images and video, with those most frequently assessable being body condition score (73% and 79% of observation events, respectively), body posture (76% for both), coat condition (42% and 52%, respectively), and whether or not the horse was sweating excessively (42% and 45%, respectively). An additional five indicators could only be assessed on video; those most frequently observable being presence or absence of weakness (66%), qualitative behavioural assessment (60%), presence or absence of shivering (51%), and gait at walk (50%). Specific behaviours were identified in 93% of still images and 84% of video events, and proportions of time different behaviours were captured could be calculated. Most social behaviours were rarely observed, but close spatial proximity to other horses, as an indicator of social bonds, was recorded in 36% of still images, and 29% of video observation events. This is the first study that describes detailed methodology for these purposes. The results of this study can also form the basis of application to other species, which could contribute significantly to advancing the field of wild animal welfare.
Dog Tales: Mindful Dog Interactions Evoke Similar Experiences to Dog Assisted Mindfulness Meditations
Authors: Oliva Jessica Lee , Green Tim Robert
Published: July 2021

Stay-at-home regulations in response to COVID-19 have put humans at increased risk of loneliness. Some studies support dog ownership as a protection against loneliness, while other studies have suggested the lockdowns can be used to reflect upon the similar restrictions owners impose on their pets on a daily basis. This study evaluated two novel ways to enrich the lives of pet dogs in the home, while also providing benefits to owners. It was hypothesized that a six-week Dog Assisted Mindfulness (DAM) intervention and a Dog Interactions (DI) intervention would positively impact owner-rated loneliness, mindfulness, and owner–dog emotional attachment, compared to a control group. Seventy-three participants were randomly assigned to each group. Mixed methods ANOVAs found no significant main effects of group, nor any group × time interaction effects. Qualitative analyses revealed common experiences among participants in the two active interventions, including enhanced owner–dog connection, and feelings of relaxation, happiness and engagement both during and after participating in the weekly activities. There was also an added benefit of ‘dog happiness’ in the interactions group. Future studies should investigate this in a more objective manner and in the meantime, regular owner–dog interactions should be encouraged, especially during times of extended lockdown.
Health-Promoting Properties of the Wild-Harvested Meat of Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) and Red Deer (Cervus elaphus L.)
Authors: Milczarek Anna , Janocha Alina , Niedziałek Grażyna , Zowczak-Romanowicz Michalina , Horoszewicz Elżbieta , Piotrowski Sławomir
Published: July 2021

The present studies aimed to analyse and assess the health-promoting properties of the musculus semimembranosus (MS) of roe and red deer harvested in the wild. The experimental materials comprising the carcasses of roe deer (15 does and 15 bucks) and red deer (15 hinds and 15 stags) were selected for analysis based on the following criteria: age of animals at harvest—3–4 years; time that passed from the harvest of animals to carcass cutting—48–54 h. After chilling the carcasses for 24 h at +2 °C, the haunches were cut from the carcasses and transported to the laboratory in isothermal ice-packed containers. Samples of the musculus semimembranosus were analysed to determine the chemical composition (proximate components, energy value, Fe, Pb, Cd, fatty acids). More (p ≤ 0.05) dry matter and total protein and less (p ≤ 0.05) crude fat was found in the musculus semimembranosus of roe deer in comparison to red deer. No significant influence of the animal’s sex was observed in the content of the evaluated nutrients, apart from crude fat content, which was increased in the haunch of females from both species. The energy content in the muscle of roe deer was 10% higher than the energy value of MS in red deer (p ≤ 0.05). The content of iron was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher (6.64 mg/kg) in the meat of red deer compared to the meat of roe deer (31.68 mg/kg). Roe deer haunch contained more lead but less cadmium than red deer haunch. Irrespective of sex, the lipid fraction of red deer muscle contained more saturated fatty acids (SFA). Intramuscular fat (IMF) in roe deer meat contained a higher percentage of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The atherogenicity (AI) and thrombogenicity (TI) index values were significantly lower in roe deer haunch, and the hypocholesterolaemic-to-hypercholesterolaemic fatty acids ratio (HH) was lower (p ≤ 0.05) in red deer meat. To sum up, the evaluated roe deer and red deer haunch featured high dietary value as it contained a high protein and low fat content and had an advantageous fatty acids composition. As regards the content of cadmium and lead, roe deer and red deer haunch can be considered safe for consumers.
Prescribers’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors on Antibiotics, Antibiotic Use and Antibiotic Resistance in Jordan
Authors: Karasneh Reema A. , Al-Azzam Sayer I. , Ababneh Mera , Al-Azzeh Ola , Al-Batayneh Ola B. , Muflih Suhaib M. , Khasawneh Mohammad , Khassawneh Abdo-Rahman M. , Khader Yousef S. , Conway Barbara R. , Aldeyab Mamoon A.
Published: July 2021

More research is needed on the drivers of irrational antibiotic prescribing among healthcare professionals and to ensure effective prescribing and an adequate understanding of the issue of antibiotic resistance. This study aimed at evaluating prescribers’ knowledge, attitudes and behaviors about antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance. A cross-sectional study was conducted utilizing an online questionnaire and included physicians and dentists from all sectors in Jordan. A total of 613 prescribers were included (physicians n = 409, dentists n = 204). Respondents’ knowledge on effective use, unnecessary use or associated side effects of antibiotics was high (>90%), compared with their knowledge on the spread of antibiotic resistance (62.2%). For ease of access to the required guidelines on managing infections, and to materials that advise on prudent antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance, prescribers agreed in 62% and 46.1% of cases, respectively. 28.4% of respondents had prescribed antibiotics when they would have preferred not to do so more than once a day or more than once a week. Among respondents who prescribed antibiotics, 63.4% would never or rarely give out resources on prudent use of antibiotics for infections. The findings are of importance to inform antibiotic stewardships about relevant interventions aimed at changing prescribers’ behaviors and improving antibiotic prescribing practices.
Antibacterial Activity of Boswellia sacra Flueck. Oleoresin Extract against Porphyromonas gingivalis Periodontal Pathogen
Authors: Attallah Nashwah G. M. , Negm Walaa A. , Elekhnawy Engy , Altwaijry Najla , Elmongy Elshaymaa I. , El-Masry Thanaa A. , Alturki Eman A. , Yousef Doaa A. , Y. Shoukheba Malak
Published: July 2021

Boswellia sacra Flueck. oleoresin extract (frankincense) has traditionally been used in the treatment of different diseases, but there are no sufficient studies on its potential activity against periodontal pathogens. Therefore, antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of frankincense extract against Porphyromonas gingivalis clinical isolates were studied. The phytochemical composition of the volatile components of the extract was identified by GC-MS analysis revealing 49 compounds as trans-nerolidyl formate, cycloartenol acetate, ursenoic acid 3-oxomethyl ester, bisabolene epoxide, and kaur-16-ene. It decreased the growth and increased the leakage of nucleotides in 58.3% and 33.3% of isolates, respectively. Additionally, it reduced the extracellular polysaccharide production and the cell surface hydrophobicity in 41.67% and 50% of the isolates, respectively. Crystal violet assay revealed inhibition of biofilm formation by the tested isolates. Light microscope and scanning electron microscope were used to examine the biofilms and they confirmed the reduction of biofilm formation by frankincense extract. Downregulation of the genes linked to biofilm formation (fimA, hagA, and hagB) was observed using qRT-PCR after treatment with the frankincense extract. This study suggested that the frankincense extract could exhibit antibacterial and antibiofilm activity against P. gingivalis isolates. Thus, the frankincense extract could be used as a treatment approach for periodontitis.
ADVO: A System to Manage Influencer Marketing Campaigns on Social Networks
Authors: Huynh Tai , Nguyen Hien D. , Zelinka Ivan , Nguyen Kha V. , Pham Vuong T. , Hoang Suong N.
Published: July 2021

In the fourth technology revolution, influencer marketing is an essential kind of digital marketing. This marketing uses identified influencers to viral the information of products to target customers. It is useful to support brands exposed to more valuable online consumers. The influencer marketing campaign needs a management system to manage on a social network. This system helps to increase the efficiency of a campaign. This paper proposes a management system for the influencer marketing campaign, called the ADVO system. This system provides a tool for collecting data on a social network and detecting potential brand influencers for the marketing campaign. The meaningful measures for users include amplification factors for evaluating the information propagation, the passion point to measure a user’s favorite when it comes to a brand, and the content creation score for determining the ability of post-content creating. The ADVO system helps the brand to make the decision through real-time visual reports of the campaign. It is a foundation to create commercial activities and construct an advocate community of the related brand.
The Temporal and Spatial Variation of Arthropod Associations Inhabiting Non-Crop Vegetation in a Sisal Crop, Agave sisalana in the Caatinga Biome
Authors: da Silva Brito Sara Samanta , Villa María , Benhadi-Marín Jacinto , da Silva Franceli , Pereira José Alberto
Published: July 2021

Sisal, Agave sisalana Perrine, is cultivated for fiber production, with Brazil being its leading producer. Nowadays, given the increasing interest in organic products, the market for sisal could become an economical alternative for rural areas with low economic inputs. However, sisal is threatened by different pests and diseases. Conservation biological control could contribute to the limitation of these plant enemies, but this agroecosystem is poorly known. In this context, we aimed: (i) to identify the diversity of plants and arthropods and their potential relations, (ii) to study the spatial patterns of arthropods and plants in function of the proximity to the margin of the field, and (iii) to determine the minimum sampling effort needed to record the occurring biodiversity in a sisal crop. Arthropods were sampled using pit-fall traps located close to the border and in the inner plant of the sisal crop from June to September. Simultaneously, plant species and their abundance in quadrats next to each pitfall were recorded. Diversity indexes were calculated to describe the biodiversity, a redundancy analysis was performed to analyze relations among arthropods and plants and the spatial distribution was evaluated using the non-parametric Wilcoxon rank-sum test. The redundancy analysis and the Wilcoxon test revealed a temporal and spatial distribution of arthropods and plants during the period of study. Results indicated (i) similar temporal diversity patterns from June to July for both plants and arthropods, with a maximum in July, whereas in September the biodiversity increased for arthropods and decreased for plants; (ii) the importance of particular plant species for Collembola; and (iii) that arthropods seem to colonize the sisal crop from the fields beyond the crop during the rainy season. These results provide new information about arthropods and plant biodiversity from an agroecosystem in a semi-arid region and raise further queries about the management of sisal crops.
Nuclear Data Uncertainty Quantification in Criticality Safety Evaluations for Spent Nuclear Fuel Geological Disposal
Authors: Frankl Matthias , Hursin Mathieu , Rochman Dimitri , Vasiliev Alexander , Ferroukhi Hakim
Published: July 2021

Presently, a criticality safety evaluation methodology for the final geological disposal of Swiss spent nuclear fuel is under development at the Paul Scherrer Institute in collaboration with the Swiss National Technical Competence Centre in the field of deep geological disposal of radioactive waste. This method in essence pursues a best estimate plus uncertainty approach and includes burnup credit. Burnup credit is applied by means of a computational scheme called BUCSS-R (Burnup Credit System for the Swiss Reactors–Repository case) which is complemented by the quantification of uncertainties from various sources. BUCSS-R consists in depletion, decay and criticality calculations with CASMO5, SERPENT2 and MCNP6, respectively, determining the keff eigenvalues of the disposal canister loaded with the Swiss spent nuclear fuel assemblies. However, the depletion calculation in the first and the criticality calculation in the third step, in particular, are subject to uncertainties in the nuclear data input. In previous studies, the effects of these nuclear data-related uncertainties on obtained keff values, stemming from each of the two steps, have been quantified independently. Both contributions to the overall uncertainty in the calculated keff values have, therefore, been considered as fully correlated leading to an overly conservative estimation of total uncertainties. This study presents a consistent approach eliminating the need to assume and take into account unrealistically strong correlations in the keff results. The nuclear data uncertainty quantification for both depletion and criticality calculation is now performed at once using one and the same set of perturbation factors for uncertainty propagation through the corresponding calculation steps of the evaluation method. The present results reveal the overestimation of nuclear data-related uncertainties by the previous approach, in particular for spent nuclear fuel with a high burn-up, and underline the importance of consistent nuclear data uncertainty quantification methods. However, only canister loadings with UO2 fuel assemblies are considered, not offering insights into potentially different trends in nuclear data-related uncertainties for mixed oxide fuel assemblies.
Transport Infrastructure SHM Using Integrated SAR Data and On-Site Vibrational Acquisitions: “Ponte Della Musica–Armando Trovajoli” Case Study
Authors: Ponzo Felice Carlo , Iacovino Chiara , Ditommaso Rocco , Bonano Manuela , Lanari Riccardo , Soldovieri Francesco , Cuomo Vincenzo , Bozzano Francesca , Ciampi Paolo , Rompato Matteo
Published: July 2021

This work presents the first results obtained by applying in situ and remote-sensing methodologies to monitor the Ponte della Musica-Armando Trovajoli located in Rome, within the activities of the WP6 “Structural Health Monitoring and Satellite Data” 2019-21 Reluis Project. In particular, the use of remote-sensing Differential Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Interferometry (DInSAR) measurements provided a spatial map of the displacement of the investigated infrastructure and the corresponding time-series, with the aim of monitoring deformation phenomena, focusing on the local scale analysis, which produces suitable results for urban monitoring and damage assessment. The DInSAR results have been integrated with the identification of the dynamic characteristics of the bridge, performed through an experimental campaign of ambient vibration measurements carried out in October 2020 and with the local-scale definition of the engineering geological setting of the foundation soil. The subsoil of the bridge is constituted by more than 50 m of recent alluvial deposits resting on Pliocene stiff clay acting as a geological bedrock. A substantially stable behavior of the bridge structural elements has been observed based on the analysis of both satellite and velocimetric data. This case represents a good example about how the integration of in situ sensors with remotely sensed data and the exploitation of a detailed knowledge regarding the on-site conditions represent a key factor for a sustainable structural and infrastructural monitoring and can support the planning both of maintenance and safety management.
Revealing the Spatial Pattern of Weather-Related Road Traffic Crashes in Slovenia
Authors: Ivajnšič Danijel , Horvat Nina , Žiberna Igor , Kotnik Eva Konečnik , Davidović Danijel
Published: July 2021

Despite an improvement in worldwide numbers, road traffic crashes still cause social, psychological, and financial damage and cost most countries 3% of their gross domestic product. However, none of the current commercial or open-source navigation systems contain spatial information about road traffic crash hot spots. By developing an algorithm that can adequately predict such spatial patterns, we can bridge these still existing gaps in road traffic safety. To that end, geographically weighted regression and regression tree models were fitted with five uncorrelated (environmental and socioeconomic) road traffic crash predictor variables. Significant regional differences in adverse weather conditions were identified; Slovenia lies at the conjunction of different climatic zones characterized by differences in weather phenomena, which further modify traffic safety. Thus, more attention to speed limits, safety distance, and other vehicles entering and leaving the system could be expected. In order to further improve road safety and better implement globally sustainable development goals, studies with applicative solutions are urgently needed. Modern vehicle-to-vehicle communication technologies could soon support drivers with real-time traffic data and thus potentially prevent road network crashes.
Experimental Study of Biogas–Hydrogen Mixtures Combustion in Conventional Natural Gas Systems
Authors: Amez Isabel , Castells Blanca , Llamas Bernardo , Bolonio David , García-Martínez María Jesús , Lorenzo José L. , García-Torrent Javier , F. Ortega Marcelo
Published: July 2021

Biogas is a renewable gas with low heat energy, which makes it extremely difficult to use as fuel in conventional natural gas equipment. Nonetheless, the use of hydrogen as a biogas additive has proven to have a beneficial effect on flame stability and combustion behavior. This study evaluates the biogas–hydrogen combustion in a conventional natural gas burner able to work up to 100 kW. Tests were performed for three different compositions of biogas: BG70 (30% CO2), BG60 (40% CO2), and BG50 (50% CO2). To achieve better flame stability, each biogas was enriched with hydrogen from 5% to 25%. The difficulty of burning biogas in conventional systems was proven, as the burner does not ignite when the biogas composition contains more than 40% of CO2. The best improvements were obtained at 5% hydrogen composition since the exhaust gas temperature and, thus, the enthalpy, rises by 80% for BG70 and 65% for BG60. The stability map reveals that pure biogas combustion is unstable in BG70 and BG60; when the CO2 content is 50%, ignition is inhibited. The properties change slightly when the hydrogen concentrations are more than 20% in the fuel gas and do not necessarily improve.
Test-Retest Reliability of a 6DoF Marker Set for Gait Analysis in Cerebral Palsy Children
Authors: Ricardo Diogo , Teles Júlia , Raposo Maria Raquel , Veloso António Prieto , João Filipa
Published: July 2021

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex pathology that describes a group of motor disorders with different presentations and functional levels. Three-dimensional gait analysis is widely used in the assessment of CP children to assist in clinical decision making. Thus, it is crucial to assess the repeatability of gait measurements to evaluate the progress of the rehabilitation process. The purpose of the study is to evaluate test-retest reliability of a six-degree-of-freedom (6DoF) marker set in key points of gait kinematics, kinetics, and time-distance parameters in children with CP. Methods: trials were performed on two different days within a period of 7.5 ± 1.4 day. Motion capture data was collected with 14 infrared, high-speed cameras at a frequency rate of 100 Hz, synchronized in time and space with two force plates. Intraclass correlation coefficients considering the two-way mixed model, and absolute agreement (ICC[A,k]) were calculated for anthropometric, time–distance, kinematic and kinetic parameters of both lower limbs. Results: the majority of gait parameters demonstrated a good ICC, and the lowest values were in the kinematic variables. Conclusions: this study indicates wide-ranging reliability values for lower limb joint angles and joint moments of force during gait, especially for frontal and transverse planes. Although the use of a 6DoF-CAST in CP children was shown to be a feasible method, the gait variation that can be observed between sessions in CP children seems to be related not only to the extrinsic factors but also to their different gait patterns and affected sides.
BHHO-TVS: A Binary Harris Hawks Optimizer with Time-Varying Scheme for Solving Data Classification Problems
Authors: Chantar Hamouda , Thaher Thaer , Turabieh Hamza , Mafarja Majdi , Sheta Alaa
Published: July 2021

Data classification is a challenging problem. Data classification is very sensitive to the noise and high dimensionality of the data. Being able to reduce the model complexity can help to improve the accuracy of the classification model performance. Therefore, in this research, we propose a novel feature selection technique based on Binary Harris Hawks Optimizer with Time-Varying Scheme (BHHO-TVS). The proposed BHHO-TVS adopts a time-varying transfer function that is applied to leverage the influence of the location vector to balance the exploration and exploitation power of the HHO. Eighteen well-known datasets provided by the UCI repository were utilized to show the significance of the proposed approach. The reported results show that BHHO-TVS outperforms BHHO with traditional binarization schemes as well as other binary feature selection methods such as binary gravitational search algorithm (BGSA), binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO), binary bat algorithm (BBA), binary whale optimization algorithm (BWOA), and binary salp swarm algorithm (BSSA). Compared with other similar feature selection approaches introduced in previous studies, the proposed method achieves the best accuracy rates on 67% of datasets.
In Vivo Evaluation of Biocompatibility of Three Biomaterials Used in Endodontics for Prosthetic Purposes in Complex Rehabilitation Treatment
Authors: Aminov Liana , Sindilar Eusebiu Viorel , Pasca Aurelian Sorin , Antohi Cristina , Decolli Yllka , Stamatin Ovidiu , Costin Lupu Iulian , Bulancea Bogdan Petru , Francu Laurian , Mihalas Eugen , Checherita Laura Elisabeta
Published: July 2021

The ideal biomaterial used in endodontics in the process of sealing the radicular canals should possess a group of qualities for a predictable outcome: biocompatibility, initiation of ontogenesis and cementogenesis, ease of handling, sufficient manipulation time, and convenient price. For a perfect sealing, the root canal treatment can be followed by prosthetic restoration. This study of biocompatibility aims to determine the quantification of the local reaction following the implantation of three biomaterials in the rabbit subcutaneous connective tissue. The used biomaterials with particular reparative properties are: MTA (Mineral Trioxide Aggregate, Dentsply, Tulsa Dental, Johnson City, TN, USA), Sealapex (Kerr, Switzerland), and DiaRoot BioAggregate (Innovative BioCaramix Inc, Vancouver, BC, Canada). The first two biomaterials (MTA, Sealapex) are already being used in endodontic treatments, and the latter was newly introduced during the concrete development of the study. This is an experimental study focused on qualitative and quantitative analysis based on histopathological examination and underlined by the positive result of the study undertaken of the applicability of oral rehabilitation treatments, increasing patients’ quality of life by a significant proportion of 95%, and generating optimal functionality of the stomatognathic system with prosthetic devices as well as accomplishing the objectives of homeostasis.
Influence of Thermochemical Treatment on the Surface Properties of Finish Turned Wire Arc Sprayed 17Cr Steel Coatings
Authors: Kutschmann Pia , Lindner Thomas , Liborius Hendrik , Grund Thomas , Schubert Andreas , Lampke Thomas
Published: July 2021

Structural features of thermal spray coatings, e.g., porosity, can be beneficial as oil retention volumes in tribological systems in order to improve emergency running properties. While thermal spray coatings can already have a considerable degree of porosity depending on the coating conditions, the finish machining, e.g., by turning, has a significant influence on the final surface properties. Effects like near-surface deformation and subsequent closing of pores during the machining process should be prevented. In the present study, the influence of thermochemical surface hardening on the surface topography of wire arc sprayed 17Cr steel layers after finish turning was investigated. Successful surface hardening by gas nitriding was shown by light microscopic and phase analyses. The surface properties after the various treatment steps were characterized by the surface roughness parameters Ra and Rz, the valley void volume Vvv, and the Abbott curves. A rise of the valley void volume can be beneficial in tribological applications in which a suitable oil retention volume is required. Accordingly, a thermochemical treatment combined with an appropriate subsequent finishing process is suitable to significantly influence the surface properties of thermal spray steel coatings.
Privacy Preserving Face Recognition in Cloud Robotics: A Comparative Study
Authors: Karri Chiranjeevi , Cheikhrouhou Omar , Harbaoui Ahmed , Zaguia Atef , Hamam Habib
Published: July 2021

Real-time robotic applications encounter the robot on board resources’ limitations. The speed of robot face recognition can be improved by incorporating cloud technology. However, the transmission of data to the cloud servers exposes the data to security and privacy attacks. Therefore, encryption algorithms need to be set up. This paper aims to study the security and performance of potential encryption algorithms and their impact on the deep-learning-based face recognition task’s accuracy. To this end, experiments are conducted for robot face recognition through various deep learning algorithms after encrypting the images of the ORL database using cryptography and image-processing based algorithms.
The Gut Microbiota of Naturally Occurring and Laboratory Aquaculture Lytechinus variegatus Revealed Differences in the Community Composition, Taxonomic Co-Occurrence, and Predicted Functional Attributes
Authors: Green George B. H. , Hakim Joseph A. , Chen Jiung-Wen , Koo Hyunmin , Morrow Casey D. , Watts Stephen A. , Bej Asim K.
Published: July 2021

Sea urchins, in many instances, are collected from the wild, maintained in the laboratory aquaculture environment, and used as model animals for various scientific investigations. It has been increasingly evident that diet-driven dysbiosis of the gut microbiome could affect animal health and physiology, thereby impacting the outcome of the scientific studies. In this study, we compared the gut microbiome between naturally occurring (ENV) and formulated diet-fed laboratory aquaculture (LAB) sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus by amplicon sequencing of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene and bioinformatics tools. Overall, the ENV gut digesta had higher taxa richness with an abundance of Propionigenium, Photobacterium, Roseimarinus, and Flavobacteriales. In contrast, the LAB group revealed fewer taxa richness, but noticeable abundances of Arcobacter, Agarivorans, and Shewanella. However, Campylobacteraceae, primarily represented by Arcobacter spp., was commonly associated with the gut tissues of both ENV and LAB groups whereas the gut digesta had taxa from Gammaproteobacteria, particularly Vibrio spp. Similarly, the co-occurrence network displayed taxonomic organizations interconnected by Arcobacter and Vibrio as being the key taxa in gut tissues and gut digesta, respectively. Predicted functional analysis of the gut tissues microbiota of both ENV and LAB groups showed a higher trend in energy-related metabolisms, whereas amino acids, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolisms heightened in the gut digesta. This study provides an outlook of the laboratory-formulated diet-fed aquaculture L. variegatus gut microbiome and predicted metabolic profile as compared to the naturally occurring animals, which should be taken into consideration for consistency, reproducibility, and translatability of scientific studies.
Protection Strategy against an Epidemic Disease on Edge-Weighted Graphs Applied to a COVID-19 Case
Authors: Manríquez Ronald , Guerrero-Nancuante Camilo , Taramasco Carla
Published: July 2021

Among the diverse and important applications that networks currently have is the modeling of infectious diseases. Immunization, or the process of protecting nodes in the network, plays a key role in stopping diseases from spreading. Hence the importance of having tools or strategies that allow the solving of this challenge. In this paper, we evaluate the effectiveness of the DIL-Wα ranking in immunizing nodes in an edge-weighted network with 3866 nodes and 6,841,470 edges. The network is obtained from a real database and the spread of COVID-19 was modeled with the classic SIR model. We apply the protection to the network, according to the importance ranking list produced by DIL-Wα, considering different protection budgets. Furthermore, we consider three different values for α; in this way, we compare how the protection performs according to the value of α.
Stable Gastric Pentadecapeptide BPC 157 Therapy for Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rats Leads to Prevention and Reversal
Authors: Udovicic Mario , Sever Marko , Kavur Lovro , Loncaric Kristina , Barisic Ivan , Balenovic Diana , Zivanovic Posilovic Gordana , Strinic Dean , Uzun Sandra , Batelja Vuletic Lovorka , Sikiric Suncana , Skrtic Anita , Drmic Domagoj , Boban Blagaic Alenka , Lovric Bencic Martina , Seiwerth Sven , Sikiric Predrag
Published: July 2021

Background. Monocrotaline selectively injures the lung’s vascular endothelium and induces pulmonary arterial hypertension. The stable gastric pentadecapeptide BPC 157 acts as a prototype cytoprotective agent that maintains endothelium, and its application may be a novel therapy. Besides, BPC 157 prevents and reverses thrombosis formation, maintains platelet function, alleviates peripheral vascular occlusion disturbances, and has anti-arrhythmic and anti-inflammatory effects. Monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats (wall thickness, total vessel area, heart frequency, QRS axis deviation, QT interval prolongation, increase in right ventricle systolic pressure and bodyweight loss) can be counteracted with early or delayed BPC 157 therapy. Methods and Results. After monocrotaline (80 mg/kg subcutaneously), BPC 157 (10 μg/kg or 10 ng/kg, days 1–14 or days 1–30 (early regimens), or days 14–30 (delayed regimen)) was given once daily intraperitoneally (last application 24 h before sacrifice) or continuously in drinking water until sacrifice (day 14 or 30). Without therapy, the outcome was the full monocrotaline syndrome, marked by right-side heart hypertrophy and massive thickening of the precapillary artery’s smooth muscle layer, clinical deterioration, and sometimes death due to pulmonary hypertension and right-heart failure during the 4th week after monocrotaline injection. With all BPC 157 regimens, monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension (including all disturbed parameters) was counteracted, and consistent beneficial effects were documented during the whole course of the disease. Pulmonary hypertension was not even developed (early regimens) as quickly as the advanced pulmonary hypertension was rapidly attenuated and then completely eliminated (delayed regimen). Conclusions. Thus, pentadecapeptide BPC 157 prevents and counteracts monocrotaline-induced pulmonary arterial hypertension and cor pulmonale in rats.
Stiff-Eye Syndrome—Anti-GAD Ataxia Presenting with Isolated Ophthalmoplegia: A Case Report
Authors: Belém Abel Dantas , Vasconcelos Thaís de Maria Frota , Paula Rafael César dos Anjos de , Costa Francisco Bruno Santana da , Rodrigues Pedro Gustavo Barros , Pereira Isabelle de Sousa , Tavares Paulo Roberto de Arruda , Galdino Gabriela Studart , Dias Daniel Aguiar , Santos Carolina de Figueiredo , Sobreira-Neto Manoel Alves , Braga-Neto Pedro , Nobrega Paulo Ribeiro
Published: July 2021

Anti-GAD ataxia is one of the most common forms of immune-mediated cerebellar ataxias. Many neurological syndromes have been reported in association with anti-GAD. Ophthalmoparesis has been described in stiff person syndrome. We report a case of anti-GAD ataxia presenting initially with isolated ophthalmoplegia and showing complete resolution after immunotherapy. A 26-year-old male patient presented with ophthalmoparesis characterized by tonic upwards deviation of the right eye. In the following month, he developed progressive ataxia with anti-GAD titers of 1972 UI/mL. After treatment with methylprednisolone and immunoglobulin, there was complete resolution of symptoms and anti-GAD titers decreased. This is the first report of isolated ophthalmoparesis due to tonic eye deviation associated with anti-GAD antibodies without stiff-person syndrome. Tonic eye deviation has been reported in SPS, possibly secondary to continuous discharge in gaze holding neurons in the brainstem (similar to what occurs in spinal motor neurons). With growing evidence for ocular abnormalitites in SPS, anti-GAD associated neurological syndromes should be included in the differential diagnosis of isolated ophthalmoplegia.
Personal and Environmental Predictors of Aggression in Adolescence
Authors: Robles-Haydar Claudia A. , Martínez-González Marina B. , Flórez-Niño Yuliana A. , Ibáñez-Navarro Luz M. , Amar-Amar José J.
Published: July 2021

This study aims to find causal factors of aggression in a group of Latino adolescents to achieve a greater understanding of human nature, taking into account personal and contextual variables. The fundamental hypothesis is that moral disengagement, personality traits, self-esteem, values, parenting, sex, and socioeconomic situation can function as possible casual factors of aggression in adolescents. The study examined the variables using the structural equations model (SEM) to determine causal factors of aggression in a sample of 827 adolescents (54% men and 46% women) between 11 and 16 years of age. According to the scientific literature review, sociodemographic, personal, and familiar variables were included in the causal model. The influence of the variables occurred in two ways: one that inhibits aggression and the other that reinforces it. The results are discussed based on identifying protective and risk factors against aggression: biological sex and values of conformity and transcendence as aggression’s inhibitors and, on the other hand, openness, moral disengagement, and leadership values as the most important predictors of aggression.
Can Incobotulinumtoxin-A Treatment Improve Quality of Life Better Than Conventional Therapy in Spastic Muscle Post-Stroke Patients? Results from a Pilot Study from a Single Center
Authors: Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Subtirelu Mihaela-Simona , Bumbea Ana-Maria
Published: July 2021

Post-stroke spasticity frequently occurs in patients with stroke, and there is a need for more quality-of-life assessments for different therapies. We evaluated for the first time in Romania the quality of life among patients with post-stroke spasticity, comparing two therapies over a 6-month period: botulinum toxin type A (BOT) with conventional therapy (CON). We also assessed the reduction of spasticity and functionality secondary to the increase in the mobility in upper limbs. This study was based on a prospective, randomized design, including subjects with post-stroke spasticity (N = 34; 34–80 years of age): in the CON arm, patients received therapy against muscle spasticity and physiotherapy, and, in the BOT arm, patients received incobotulinumtoxin-A and additionally conventional treatment, if required. Among 34 treated subjects in the two arms, the quality of life was significantly higher after BOT therapy (p < 0.001), represented by improvement in movement (p < 0.001), usual activities (p = 0.018), and distress (p < 0.001). Improvements in muscle tone (Ashworth Scale) over 6 months of treatment period were greater in the BOT arm (100%) than in the CON arm (11.8%). These preliminary results suggested that incobotulinumtoxin-A increased quality of life by improving movement, daily activities, mental health, and muscle tone more effectively than conventional therapy and could form a basis for future comparator studies.