bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Pit Mud on Bacterial Community and Aroma Components in Yellow Water and Their Changes during the Fermentation of Chinese Strong-Flavor Liquor
Authors: Gao Zhanzheng , Wu Zhengyun , Zhang Wenxue
Published: March 2020

As the main by-product of Chinese strong-flavor liquor, yellow water plays an important role in the formation of flavor components. Yellow water from different fermentation periods (30th day, 45th day, 60th day) was selected to analyze the aroma components by Headspace solid phase micro-extraction Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry, and the microorganism community was evaluated by high-throughput sequencing technology and bioinformatics analysis of DNA. As the fermentation time was prolonged, the main flavor components significantly increased, and the amount of the common microbial population between yellow water and pit mud increased gradually. Among the common microorganisms, Lactobacillus accounted for the largest proportion, at about 56.96%. The microbes in the yellow water mainly belonged to Firmicutes. The abundance of Bacilli (the main bacteria) gradually decreased with time, at 87.60% at the 30th day down to 68.87% at the 60th day, but Clostridia gradually increased from 10.29% to 27.48%. At the genus level, some microbes increased significantly from the 30th day to 60th day, such as Caproiciproducens, which increased from 2.65% to 6.30%, and Sedimentibacter, increasing from 0.47% to 2.49%. RDA analysis indicated that the main aroma components were positively correlated with Clostridia and negatively correlated with Bacilli.
Effects of Hot-Water Extract from Vine Tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata) on Acrylamide Formation, Quality and Consumer Acceptability of Bread
Authors: Ma Qian , Cai Shengbao , Jia Yijia , Sun Xiyan , Yi Junjie , Du Jiang
Published: March 2020

Acrylamide is a harmful substance that could be inhibited by natural products. Vine tea is an edible herb belonging to the Vitaceae family and has been approved by Chinese authorities as a new food ingredient in 2013. However, the effects of vine tea extract on acrylamide formation and bread quality are rarely investigated. In this study, the polyphenol composition of hot-water extract from vine tea was characterized by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-HRMS/MS), and its effects on acrylamide formation, quality, and consumer acceptability of bread were investigated. Vine tea extract and its main polyphenol, dihydromyricetin, significantly inhibited the acrylamide formation in bread, especially the low dose of vine tea extract (1.25 g/kg), which decreased the acrylamide formation by 58.23%. The color and texture of bread were significantly affected by vine tea extract or dihydromyricetin, whereas the moisture content was not changed remarkably. Triangle and paired preference tests indicated that, although the aroma, appearance, and taste of the bread with vine tea extract significantly differ from those of the control bread, vine tea extract did not significantly affect the consumer acceptability. In conclusion, the addition of vine tea extract could be used to develop a new and healthy bread product with low acrylamide content.
Influences of Electron Beam Irradiation on the Physical and Chemical Properties of Zearalenone- and Ochratoxin A-Contaminated Corn and In Vivo Toxicity Assessment
Authors: Luo Xiaohu , Zhai Yuheng , Qi Lijun , Pan Lihong , Wang Jing , Xing Jiali , Wang Ren , Wang Li , Zhang Qingchuan , Yang Kai , Chen Zhengxing
Published: March 2020

Electron beam irradiation (EBI) has high energy, no induced radioactivity, and strong degradation capacity toward mycotoxins, such as zearalenone (ZEN) and ochratoxin A (OTA). In this study, we determined EBI’s influence on the physical and chemical properties of corn contaminated with ZEN and OTA. Moreover, the toxicity of corn after EBI was assessed through a mouse experiment. Amylose content and starch crystallinity in corn decreased significantly (p < 0.05) at an irradiation dose higher than 20 kGy. Scanning electron microscopy results revealed that the starch particles of corn began to be crushed at 10 kGy. Essential and total amino acid contents in corn decreased significantly with increasing irradiation dose of EBI (p < 0.05). Feeding EBI-treated corn fodders to mice could significantly improve blood biochemical indexes. The EBI-treated group was not significantly different from the normal corn group and did not display histopathological changes of the liver. EBI treatment can influence the quality of corn to some extent and effectively lower the toxicity of ZEN and OTA in contaminated corn. The results provide a theoretical and practical basis for the processing of EBI-treated corn and its safety.
Differential Effects of Tai Chi Chuan (Motor-Cognitive Training) and Walking on Brain Networks: A Resting-State fMRI Study in Chinese Women Aged 60
Authors: Yue Chunlin , Zhang Yanjie , Jian Mei , Herold Fabian , Yu Qian , Mueller Patrick , Lin Jingyuan , Wang Guoxiang , Tao Yuliu , Zhang Zonghao , Zou Liye
Published: March 2020

Background: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate whether a long-term engagement in different types of physical exercise may influence resting-state brain networks differentially. In particular, we studied if there were differences in resting-state functional connectivity measures when comparing older women who are long-term practitioners of tai chi chuan or walking. Method: We recruited 20 older women who regularly practiced tai chi chuan (TCC group), and 22 older women who walked regularly (walking group). Both the TCC group and the walking group underwent a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) scan. The acquired rs-fMRI data of all participants were analyzed using independent component analysis. Age and years of education were added as co-variables. Results: There were significant differences in default network, sensory-motor network, and visual network of rs-fMRI between the TCC group and walking group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The findings of the current study suggested that long-term practice of different types of physical exercises (TCC vs. walking) influenced brain functional networks and brain functional plasticity of elderly women differentially. Our findings encourage further research to investigate whether those differences in resting-state functional connectivity as a function of the type of physical exercise have implications for the prevention of neurological diseases.
Morphogenetic Variability as Potential Biomarker of Neurogenic Lesion Degree in Children with Spina Bifida
Authors: Petronic Ivana , Marinkovic Dragoslav , Nikolic Dejan , Cirovic Dragana , Golubovic Zoran , Milanovic Filip , Cvjeticanin Suzana
Published: March 2020

Aims. In this study we analyzed the degree of genetic homozygosity among spina bifida patients with different degrees of neurogenic lesion (N = 82), as well as their clinical and neurological characteristics, compared to healthy control individuals (N = 100). Methods. According to clinical and electromyographic findings, we separately assessed the type of neurogenic lesion (paresis or paralysis). Regarding the degree of neurogenic lesion, patients were classified into three groups: mild, moderate and severe. We analyzed six muscles. For assessing the degree of individual genetic homozygosity, we tested the presence and distribution of 15 homozygous recessive characteristics (HRC). Results. The predominant type of neurogenic lesion was paresis. Every third evaluated muscle was affected in the group with mild neurogenic lesion, while more than half were affected in the group with severe neurogenic lesion. The average values of HRCs among different groups of patients and the control showed the population-genetic differences that exist among them (control x ¯ HRC/15 = 3.0 ± 0.2; mild x ¯ HRC/15 = 3.6 ± 0.2; moderate x ¯ HRC/15 = 4.8 ± 0.3; severe neurogenic lesion x ¯ HRC/15 = 5.0 ± 0.3). Conclusions. Spina bifida patients have a significant increase of recessive homozygosity and a decreased variability compared to the control group. As neurogenic lesions are more severe, more affected muscles are present, as well as the increase of individual recessive homozygosity.
Meditation Practice Improves Short-Term Changes in Heart Rate Variability
Authors: Chang Kang-Ming , Wu Chueh Miao-Tien , Lai Yi-Jung
Published: March 2020

Background: It is well known that meditation improves the physical and psychological condition of its practitioners. This study investigated the heart rate variability response of meditation practitioners in two Chan master teaching environments, namely face-to-face and video classes. Methods: Experimental sessions were conducted, one featuring face-to-face classes and the other featuring video classes. The difference in participants’ physiological parameters (blood pressure and heart rate variability) between the two experimental sessions was determined. In the first session, physiological parameters were recorded twice, before and after one teaching course, and the second session took place one month after the first. The first and second sessions had 45 and 27 participants, respectively. Those involved in the first experiment had no experience with meditation, whereas participants in the second experiment had practiced meditation for an average of 9 years (range = 1 to 27 years). Both experiments were conducted once a week, with each session lasting 1.5 h. Results: For both experiments, both heart rate and heart rate variability by age significantly decreased after one teaching course. Conclusions: Chan meditation practitioners benefit from receiving both face-to-face and video class teaching from a Chan master.
Dental Practice Integration into Primary Care: A Microsimulation of Financial Implications for Practices
Authors: Choi Sung Eun , Simon Lisa , Barrow Jane R. , Palmer Nathan , Basu Sanjay , Phillips Russell S.
Published: March 2020

Given the widespread lack of access to dental care for many vulnerable Americans, there is a growing realization that integrating dental and primary care may provide comprehensive care. We sought to model the financial impact of integrating dental care provision into a primary care practice. A microsimulation model was used to estimate changes in net revenue per practice by simulating patient visits to a primary dental practice within primary care practices, utilizing national survey and un-identified claims data from a nationwide health insurance plan. The impact of potential changes in utilization rates and payer distributions and hiring additional staff was also evaluated. When dental care services were provided in the primary care setting, annual net revenue changes per practice were −$92,053 (95% CI: −93,054, −91,052) in the first year and $104,626 (95% CI: 103,315, 105,316) in subsequent years. Net revenue per annum after the first year of integration remained positive as long as the overall utilization rates decreased by less than 25%. In settings with a high proportion of publicly insured patients, the net revenue change decreased but was still positive. Integrating primary dental and primary care providers would be financially viable, but this viability depends on demands of dental utilization and payer distributions.
Optimization of a Capacitated Vehicle Routing Problem for Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Collection Management Using the PSO-TS Algorithm
Authors: Qiao Qingqing , Tao Fengming , Wu Hailin , Yu Xuewei , Zhang Mengjun
Published: March 2020

Sustainable management of municipal solid waste (MSW) collection has been of increasing concern in terms of its economic, environmental, and social impacts in recent years. Current literature frequently studies economic and environmental dimensions, but rarely focuses on social aspects, let alone an analysis of the combination of the three abovementioned aspects. This paper considers the three benefits simultaneously, aiming at facilitating decision-making for a comprehensive solution to the capacitated vehicle routing problem in the MSW collection system, where the number and location of vehicles, depots, and disposal facilities are predetermined beforehand. Besides the traditional concerns of economic costs, this paper considers environmental issues correlated to the carbon emissions generated from burning fossil fuels, and evaluates social benefits by penalty costs which are derived from imbalanced trip assignments for disposal facilities. Then, the optimization model is proposed to minimize system costs composed of fixed costs of vehicles, fuel consumption costs, carbon emissions costs, and penalty costs. Two meta-heuristic algorithms, particle swarm optimization (PSO) and tabu search (TS), are adopted for a two-phase algorithm to obtain an efficient solution for the proposed model. A balanced solution is acquired and the results suggest a compromise between economic, environmental, and social benefits.
Alpha-Glucosidase Inhibitor Voglibose Suppresses Azoxymethane-Induced Colonic Preneoplastic Lesions in Diabetic and Obese Mice
Authors: Kato Junichi , Shirakami Yohei , Mizutani Taku , Kubota Masaya , Sakai Hiroyasu , Ibuka Takashi , Shimizu Masahito
Published: March 2020

Type 2 diabetes mellitus and its related insulin resistance are known to increase the risk of cancer. Anti-diabetic agents can improve insulin resistance and may lead to the suppression of carcinogenesis. This study aimed to investigate the preventive effects of the alpha-glucosidase inhibitor voglibose on the development of azoxymethane-induced colorectal pre-neoplastic lesions in obese and diabetic C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice. The direct effects of voglibose on the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells were also evaluated. Mice were injected with azoxymethane to induce colorectal pre-malignancy and were then administered drinking water with or without voglibose. At the end of the study, the administration of voglibose significantly suppressed the development of colorectal neoplastic lesions. In voglibose-treated mice, serum glucose levels, oxidative stress, as well as mRNA expression of the insulin-like growth factor-1 in the colon mucosa, were reduced. The proliferation of human colorectal cancer cells was not altered by voglibose. These results suggested that voglibose suppressed colorectal carcinogenesis in a diabetes- and obesity-related colorectal cancer model, presumably by improving inflammation via the reduction of oxidative stress and suppressing of the insulin-like growth factor/insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor axis in the colonic mucosa.
Forefront: MiR-34a-Knockout Mice with Wild Type Hematopoietic Cells, Retain Persistent Fibrosis Following Lung Injury
Authors: Bulvik Raanan , Biton Moshe , Berkman Neville , Breuer Raphael , Wallach-Dayan Shulamit B.
Published: March 2020

MicroRNAs (miRs) are known to limit gene expression at the post-transcriptional level and have important roles in the pathogenesis of various conditions, including acute lung injury (ALI) and fibrotic diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). In this study, we found increased levels of miR-34 at times of fibrosis resolution following injury, in myofibroblasts from Bleomycin-treated mouse lungs, which correlates with susceptibility to cell death induced by immune cells. On the contrary, a substantial downregulation of miR-34 was detected at stages of evolution, when fibroblasts resist cell death. Concomitantly, we found an inverse correlation between miR-34 levels with that of the survival molecule FLICE-like inhibitory protein (FLIP) in lung myofibroblasts from humans with IPF and the experimental model. Forced upregulation of miR-34 with miR-34 mimic in human IPF fibrotic-lung myofibroblasts led to decreased cell survival through downregulation of FLIP. Using chimeric miR-34 knock-out (KO)-C57BL/6 mice with miR34KO myofibroblasts but wild-type (WT) hematopoietic cells, we found, in contrast to WT mice, increased and persistent FLIP levels with a more severe fibrosis and with no signs of resolution as detected in pathology and collagen accumulation. Moreover, a mimic of miR-34a decreased FLIP expression and susceptibility to cell death was regained in miR-34KO fibroblasts. Through this study, we show for the first time an inverse correlation between miR-34a and FLIP expression in myofibroblasts, which affects survival, and accumulation in lung fibrosis. Reprogramming fibrotic-lung myofibroblasts to regain susceptibility to cell-death by specifically increasing their miR34a and downregulating FLIP, may be a useful strategy, enabling tissue regeneration following lung injury.
3D Numerical Simulation of the Interaction between Waves and a T-Head Groin Structure
Authors: Cannata Giovanni , Tamburrino Marco , Gallerano Francesco
Published: March 2020

The aim of coastal structures for the defense from erosion is to modify the hydrodynamic fields that would naturally occur with the wave motion, to produce zones of sedimentation of solid material, and to combat the recession of the coastline. T-head groin-shaped structures are among the most adopted in coastal engineering. The assessment of the effectiveness of such structures requires hydrodynamic study of the interaction between wave motion and the structure. Hydrodynamic phenomena induced by the interaction between wave motion and T-head groin structures have three-dimensionality features. The aim of the paper is to propose a new three-dimensional numerical model for the simulation of the hydrodynamic fields induced by the interaction between wave fields and coastal structures. The proposed model is designed to represent complex morphologies as well as coastal structures inside the domain. The numerical scheme solves the three-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations in a contravariant formulation, on a time-dependent coordinate system, in which the vertical coordinate varies over time to follow the free-surface elevation. The main innovative element of the paper consists in the proposal of a new numerical scheme that makes it possible to simulate flows around structures with sharp-cornered geometries. The proposed numerical model is validated against a well-known experimental test-case consisting in a wave train approaching a beach (non-parallel with the wave front), with the presence of a T-head groin structure. A detailed comparison between numerical and experimental results is shown.
What Future for the Green Bond Market? How Can Policymakers, Companies, and Investors Unlock the Potential of the Green Bond Market?
Authors: Deschryver Pauline , de Mariz Frederic
Published: March 2020

The green bond market is attracting new issuers and a more diversified base of investors. However, the size of the green bond market remains small compared to the challenges it is meant to address and to the overall traditional bond market. This paper is based on a unique methodology combining an extensive literature review, market data analysis, and interviews with a large spectrum of green bond market participants. We identify the current barriers explaining the lack of scalability of the green bond market: a deficit of harmonized global standards; risks of greenwashing; the perception of higher costs for issuers; the lack of supply of green bonds for investors; and the overall infancy of the market. This paper makes several recommendations to overcome these obstacles and unlock the full potential of green bonds to finance sustainability goals.
Diatom-Derived Polyunsaturated Aldehydes Are Unlikely to Influence the Microbiota Composition of Laboratory-Cultured Diatoms
Authors: Eastabrook Chloe L. , Whitworth Paul , Robinson Georgina , Caldwell Gary S.
Published: March 2020

Diatom-derived oxylipins, including polyunsaturated aldehydes (PUA), are considered to have infochemical, allelochemical and bacteriostatic properties, with plausible roles as grazing deterrents and regulators of inter- and intraspecific competition. However, the extent and mechanisms of how PUA influence diatom–bacteria interactions remain unresolved. In this study, impacts on the diversity of the associated bacterial communities (microbiota) of two contrasting Skeletonema marinoi strains (a PUA and a non-PUA producer) were investigated under three nitrate conditions in batch culture. Further, the response of the culture microbiota was studied when spiked with PUA at ecologically relevant concentrations (86nM octadienal and 290nM heptadienal). Of the 741 identified OTUs, Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum (62.10%), followed by Bacteroidetes (12.33%) and Firmicutes (6.11%). Escherichia/Shigella were the most abundant genera for all treatments. Similar communities were present in both spiked and non-spiked cultures suggesting they can tolerate PUA exposure at realistic concentrations. This study suggests that PUA are not major drivers of diatom–bacteria interactions in laboratory cultures.
Harsh Sliding Wear of a Zirconia Ball against a-C:H Coated CoCrMo Disc in Hyaluronic Gel
Authors: Dorner-Reisel Annett , Schürer Christian , Svoboda Stefan
Published: March 2020

The a-C:H (amorphous carbon-hydrogen) films belong to the family of DLC (diamond-like carbon) coatings. The a-C:H coating was deposited on medical grade CoCrMo substrates by plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PA-CVD) using benzene as gaseous precursor. Benzene offers an aromatic structure, which affects the a-C:H properties after plasma decomposition. A zirconia ball was sliding at two different frequencies, 50 Hz or 1Hz, against the uncoated and a-C:H coated CoCrMo. The frequency of 1 Hz is typical for human movement during fast walking. The harsh sliding conditions with a normal load of 100 N and 50 Hz frequency simulate extreme overloading of the biomedical sliding partners. It gives insight into the failure mechanisms. The wear tests were carried out in laboratory air (dry, RH: 15.6%) or using hyaluronic gel as lubricant. The hyaluronic gel acts as an effective intermediate medium. It adheres very well to both, a-C:H coating and zirconia. No wear was evident on the ZrO2 ball at 1 Hz and 100 N. Minor wear traces were observed on the a-C:H coating only. A wear coefficient of 0.16 × 10−6 mm3/N·m were calculated for a-C:H coated CoCrMo after ZrO2 ball sliding with 1 Hz and 100 N in hyaluronic gel. This is two orders of magnitude lower in comparison to dry sliding of ZrO2 ball against DLC coated CoCrMo with 1 Hz. The coefficient of friction (COF) remained below 0.09 until the hyaluronic gel starts to lose viscosity. This finding pronounces the importance of a proper homogeneous lubrication during operation of the biomedical joints. For extreme harsh tribological loading like sudden jumps of a patient with artificial joints, the application of an intermediate layer before a-C:H coating needs further evaluation.
A New Fuzzy MARCOS Method for Road Traffic Risk Analysis
Authors: Stanković Miomir , Stević Željko , Das Dillip Kumar , Subotić Marko , Pamučar Dragan
Published: March 2020

In this paper, a new fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making model for traffic risk assessment was developed. A part of a main road network of 7.4 km with a total of 38 Sections was analyzed with the aim of determining the degree of risk on them. For that purpose, a fuzzy Measurement Alternatives and Ranking according to the COmpromise Solution (fuzzy MARCOS) method was developed. In addition, a new fuzzy linguistic scale quantified into triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs) was developed. The fuzzy PIvot Pairwise RElative Criteria Importance Assessment—fuzzy PIPRECIA method—was used to determine the criteria weights on the basis of which the road network sections were evaluated. The results clearly show that there is a dominant section with the highest risk for all road participants, which requires corrective actions. In order to validate the results, a comprehensive validity test was created consisting of variations in the significance of model input parameters, testing the influence of dynamic factors—of reverse rank, and applying the fuzzy Simple Additive Weighing (fuzzy SAW) method and the fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (fuzzy TOPSIS). The validation test show the stability of the results obtained and the justification for the development of the proposed model.
Effect of CO2/H2S and Applied Stress on Corrosion Behavior of 15Cr Tubing in Oil Field Environment
Authors: Zhao Xuehui , Huang Wei , Li Guoping , Feng Yaorong , Zhang Jianxun
Published: March 2020

The corrosion behavior of a 15Cr-6Ni-2Mo martensitic stainless steel (15Cr stainless steel) in a CO2/H2S environment was investigated by conducting high-temperature/high-pressure immersion tests combined with scanning electron microscopy and metallographic microscopy. The presence of H2S decreased the corrosion resistance of the 15Cr tubing steel. The critical H2S partial pressure (PH2S) for stress corrosion cracking in the 15Cr tubing steel in the simulated oil field environment with a CO2 partial pressure of 4 MPa and an applied stress of 80% σs was identified. The 15Cr tubing steel mainly suffered uniform corrosion with no pitting and cracking when the PH2S was below 0.5 MPa. When the PH2S increased to 1 MPa and the test temperature was 150 °C, the pitting and cracking sensitivity increased. The stress corrosion cracking at a higher PH2S is attributed to the sulfide-induced brittle fracture.
The Design of Terahertz Monolithic Integrated Frequency Multipliers Based on Gallium Arsenide Material
Authors: Meng Jin , Qi Luwei , Liu Xiaoyu , Zhou Jingtao , Zhang Dehai , Jin Zhi
Published: March 2020

A global design method for a terahertz monolithic integrated frequency multiplier is proposed. Compared with a traditional independent design, the method in this paper adopts overall optimization and combines the device with the circuit design. The advantage is that it provides a customized design for frequency multipliers according to specifications. On the basis of the gallium arsenide process of the Institute of Microelectronics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, two types of Schottky diodes have been developed to meet the needs of different designs. On the one hand, a Schottky diode with a 3 μm junction’s diameter was used in the design of the 200 GHz balanced doubler and, on the other hand, a diode with a 5 μm diameter was used in the 215 GHz unbalanced tripler. The measured results indicated that the output power of the doubler was more than 250 μW at 180~218 GHz, and the maximum was 950 μW at 198 GHz when driven with 12.3 mW, whereas that of the tripler was above 5 mW at 210~218 GHz and the maximum exceeded 10 mW. Such frequency multiplier sources could be widely used in terahertz imaging, radiometers, and so on.
Citrus Postharvest Green Mold: Recent Advances in Fungal Pathogenicity and Fruit Resistance
Authors: Cheng Yulin , Lin Yunlong , Cao Haohao , Li Zhengguo
Published: March 2020

As the major postharvest disease of citrus fruit, postharvest green mold is caused by the necrotrophic fungus Penicillium digitatum (Pd), which leads to huge economic losses worldwide. Fungicides are still the main method currently used to control postharvest green mold in citrus fruit storage. Investigating molecular mechanisms of plant–pathogen interactions, including pathogenicity and plant resistance, is crucial for developing novel and safer strategies for effectively controlling plant diseases. Despite fruit–pathogen interactions remaining relatively unexplored compared with well-studied leaf–pathogen interactions, progress has occurred in the citrus fruit–Pd interaction in recent years, mainly due to their genome sequencing and establishment or optimization of their genetic transformation systems. Recent advances in Pd pathogenicity on citrus fruit and fruit resistance against Pd infection are summarized in this review.
Formate Utilization by the Crenarchaeon Desulfurococcus amylolyticus
Authors: Ergal Ipek , Reischl Barbara , Hasibar Benedikt , Manoharan Lokeshwaran , Zipperle Aaron , Bochmann Günther , Fuchs Werner , Rittmann Simon K.-M. R.
Published: March 2020

Formate is one of the key compounds of the microbial carbon and/or energy metabolism. It owes a significant contribution to various anaerobic syntrophic associations, and may become one of the energy storage compounds of modern energy biotechnology. Microbial growth on formate was demonstrated for different bacteria and archaea, but not yet for species of the archaeal phylum Crenarchaeota. Here, we show that Desulfurococcus amylolyticus DSM 16532, an anaerobic and hyperthermophilic Crenarchaeon, metabolises formate without the production of molecular hydrogen. Growth, substrate uptake, and production kinetics on formate, glucose, and glucose/formate mixtures exhibited similar specific growth rates and similar final cell densities. A whole cell conversion experiment on formate revealed that D. amylolyticus converts formate into carbon dioxide, acetate, citrate, and ethanol. Using bioinformatic analysis, we examined whether one of the currently known and postulated formate utilisation pathways could be operative in D. amylolyticus. This analysis indicated the possibility that D. amylolyticus uses formaldehyde producing enzymes for the assimilation of formate. Therefore, we propose that formate might be assimilated into biomass through formaldehyde dehydrogenase and the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway. These findings shed new light on the metabolic versatility of the archaeal phylum Crenarchaeota.
Effects of Casein Hydrolysate Ingestion on Thermoregulatory Responses in Healthy Adults during Exercise in Heated Conditions: A Randomized Crossover Trial
Authors: Sakata Yasuyuki , Yoshida Chikako , Fujiki Yuka , Matsunaga Yutaka , Nakamura Hirohiko , Shimizu Takashi , Takeda Yasuhiro , Amano Tatsuro
Published: March 2020

Food ingestion has been shown to affect thermoregulation during exercise, while the impact of protein degradant consumption remains unclear. We investigated the effects of casein hydrolysate ingestion on thermoregulatory responses during exercise in the heat. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover trial, five men and five women consumed either 5 g of casein hydrolysate or placebo. Thirty minutes after ingestion, participants cycled at 60% VO2max until voluntary exhaustion wearing a hot-water (43 °C) circulation suit. Exercise time to exhaustion, body core temperature, forearm sweat rate, and forearm cutaneous vascular conductance did not differ different between the conditions. However, chest sweat rate and mean skin temperature increased upon casein hydrolysate ingestion compared with placebo during exercise. Increased chest sweat rate upon casein hydrolysate ingestion was associated with elevated sudomotor sensitivity to increasing body core temperature, but not the temperature threshold for initiating sweating. A positive correlation was found between chest sweat rate and plasma total amino acid concentration during exercise. These results suggest that casein hydrolysate ingestion enhances sweating heterogeneously by increasing peripheral sensitivity of the chest’s sweating mechanism and elevating skin temperature during exercise in the heat. However, the physiological link between plasma amino acid concentration and sweat rate remains unclear.
Pharmacy Technicians’ Contribution to Counselling at Community Pharmacies in Denmark
Authors: El-Souri Mira , Nørgaard Hansen Rikke , Raagaard Ann Moon , Søndergaard Birthe , Rossing Charlotte
Published: March 2020

(1) Background: pharmacy technicians are the largest group of staff at Danish community pharmacies and play a vital role in counselling customers on prescription medication, over-the-counter (OTC) medication and non-medical products. This is the first study carried out to specifically analyse how they contribute to counselling and identification of drug-related problems (DRPs) at Danish community pharmacies. (2) Methods: seventy-six pharmacy technicians from 38 community pharmacies registered data on all of their customer visits for five days, over a four-week period, between January and March 2019. Data were analysed in SPSS version 24. (3) Results: 58.9% of all registered customers (n = 10,417) received counselling. They identified DRPs for 15.8% of all registered customers (n = 2800). Counselling by pharmacy technicians solved, or partially solved, problems for 70.4% of customers with DRPs. Pharmacy technicians estimated that 25.2% of customers receiving counselling (n = 2621) were saved a visit to the general practitioner (GP). (4) Conclusions: as community pharmacists get more involved in complex services, it would be necessary to expand the roles of pharmacy technicians. Pharmacy technicians contribute to medication safety via counselling, and identifying and handling DRPs for all customers. This study documents the role of pharmacy technicians in customer counselling at Danish community pharmacies. It provides evidence to researchers and policy makers to support discussions on the future role of pharmacy technicians at community pharmacies.
Crystal Structure and Mechanical Properties of Uniaxially Stretched PA612/SiO2 Films
Authors: Wu Yichao , Huang Anmin , Fan Shuhong , Liu Yuejun , Liu Xiaochao
Published: March 2020

Stretching has a significant effect on the microstructure and ultimate performance of semi-crystalline polymers. To investigate the effect of stretching on structure and mechanical properties of uniaxial stretched PA612/SiO2, PA612 and PA612/SiO2 films were prepared at four temperatures close to the glass transition temperature at various strain. The samples were characterized by a transmission electron microscope (TEM), wide-angle X-ray diffractometer (WAXD), Two-dimensional wide-angle X-ray Scattering (2D-WAXS), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA), and stretching tests. The results showed that the α phase was the dominant phase in PA612 casting film, no obvious γ phase was observed, while both stretching and the presence of SiO2 can induce the generation of α phase and improve the crystallinity of PA612. Crystals were oriented along the stretching direction and the b axis was parallel to the equatorial direction after stretching. The interplanar spacing of (010/110) decreased with the increasing stretching temperature and expanded with the increasing strain, while stretching temperature and strain present negligible effect on the interplanar spacing of (100). The grain size increased with the stretching temperature while decreased with strain. The presence of SiO2 led to reduce the yield stress and the stress drop beyond yielding of the composite. Uniaxial stretching gave rise to a significant improvement in the fracture stress and the glass transition temperature.
Mussel-Inspired Co-Deposition of Polydopamine/Silica Nanoparticles onto Carbon Fiber for Improved Interfacial Strength and Hydrothermal Aging Resistance of Composites
Authors: Cui Xuejun , Ma Lichun , Wu Guangshun
Published: March 2020

A novel and effective strategy was first proposed for the codeposition of a mussel-inspired nanohybrid coating with excellent wettability onto the surface of carbon fibers (CFs) by simultaneous polymerization of bioinspired dopamine (DA) and hydrolysis of commercial tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) in an eco-friendly one-pot process. Mussel-inspired nanohybrids could be adhered onto the surface of CFs firmly. The novel modification could afford sufficient polar groups and significantly improve fiber surface roughness and energy without decreasing fiber intrinsic strength, which were advantageous to promote interfacial compatibility and wettability between CFs and matrix resin. As a result, the interfacial shear strength of composites increased to 48.21 ± 1.45 MPa compared to that of untreated composites 29.47 ± 0.88 MPa. Meanwhile, the nanohybrid coating increased significantly composites’ hydrothermal aging resistance. The efficient strategy shows a promising and green platform of surface functionalization of CFs for preparing advanced polymer composites arising from broadly mechanical-demanding and energy-saving usages.
Robust Mixed H2/H∞ State Feedback Controller Development for Uncertain Automobile Suspensions with Input Delay
Authors: Liu Nan , Pang Hui , Yao Rui
Published: March 2020

In order to achieve better dynamics performances of a class of automobile active suspensions with the model uncertainties and input delays, this paper proposes a generalized robust linear H2/H∞ state feedback control approach. First, the mathematical model of a half-automobile active suspension is established. In this model, the H∞ norm of body acceleration is determined as the performance index of the designed controller, and the hard constraints of suspension dynamic deflection, tire dynamic load and actuator saturation are selected as the generalized H2 performance output index of the designed controller to satisfy the suspension safety requirements. Second, a generalized H2/H∞ guaranteed cost state-feedback controller is developed in terms of Lyapunov stability theory. In addition, the Cone Complementarity Linearization (CCL) algorithm is employed to convert the generalized H2/H∞ output-feedback control problem into a finite convex optimization problem (COP) in a linear matrix inequality framework. Finally, a numerical simulation case of this half-automobile active suspension is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller in frequency-domain and time-domain.
A Review of Exergy Based Optimization and Control
Authors: James Corey , Kim Tae Young , Jane Robert
Published: March 2020

This work presents a critical review of the use of exergy based control and optimization for efficiency improvements in energy networks, with a background of exergy based analysis given for context. Over the past three decades, a number of studies using exergy were conducted to gain a performance advantage for high energy consumption systems and networks. Due to their complexity and the increased scale of the systems, the opportunity to misuse energy inevitability leads to inefficient operations. The studies accomplished in this area are grouped into either control or optimization to highlight each method’s ability to minimize system irreversibilities that lead to exergy destruction. The exergy based optimization and control studies featured demonstrate substantial improvements (as high as 40%) over traditional methods based on the first law of thermodynamics. This paper reviews the work completed in the area of exergy based optimization and control as of the end of September 2019, outlines the progress made, and identifies specific areas where future work can advance this area of study. A relatively small amount of publications are available compared to other fields, with most work occurring in the area of exergy based multi-objective optimization.
Recovering Scandium from Scandium Rough Concentrate Using Roasting-Hydrolysis-Leaching Process
Authors: Xiao Junhui , Peng Yang , Ding Wei , Chen Tao , Zou Kai , Wang Zhen
Published: March 2020

In this study, a roasting-hydrolysis-acid leaching process is used to extract scandium from the scandium rough concentrate. The scandium rough concentrate containing Sc2O3 of 76.98 g/t was obtained by magnetic separation, gravity separation, and electric separation from Sc-bearing Vi-Ti magnetite tailings in the Panxi area of China. The majority of scandium in scandium rough concentrate mainly occurs in diopside, titanopyroxene, montmorillonite, chlorite, talc, aluminosilicate minerals, and isomorphism. Sodium salt and scandium coarse concentrate are added into the roasting furnace for roasting, which makes the fusion reaction of silicon, aluminum and sodium salt to produce soluble salts such as sodium silicate and sodium metaaluminate. Scandium is further recovered from the hydrolysis residue by acid leaching. Test results show scandium leaching recovery of 95.12% and the acid leaching residue with Sc2O3 content of 8.12 g/t are obtained, while the extraction of scandium is obvious. There is no obvious peak value of Scandium spectrum in hydrochloric acid leach residue. Most of scandium in hydrolytic residue is dissolved into Sc3+ and enters into the liquid phase. The main minerals in leach residue are perovskite, ferric silicate, and olivine.
Green Separation and Extraction Processes: Part I
Authors: Kyzas George Z. , Matis Kostas A.
Published: March 2020

Supercritical fluid extraction comprises a known technology applied to obtain volatile compounds from flowers, i [...]
Controlling Liquid Slosh by Applying Optimal Operating-Speed-Dependent Motion Profiles
Authors: Troll Clemens , Tietze Sven , Majschak Jens-Peter
Published: March 2020

In this paper, an investigation is presented that demonstrates the application of a new approach for enabling the reduction of liquid slosh by implementing optimized motion profiles over a continuous range of operating speeds. Liquid slosh occurs in the packaging process of beverages. Starting by creating a dynamic process model, optimal control theory is applied for calculating optimal motion profiles that minimize residual vibration. Subsequently, the difficulty of operating speed dependency of the herewith synthesized motion profiles is examined. An approach in which the optimal motion profiles are consolidated into a characteristic map of motion specifications, which can be executed by a programmable logic controller in real time, is discussed. Eventually, the success of this novel approach is demonstrated by the comparison with state-of-the-art motion profiles and conventional motion implementation.
Beyond the Right of Access: A Critique of the Legalist Approach to Dissemination of Climate Change Information in Kenya
Authors: Ageyo Joe , Muchunku Idah Gatwiri
Published: March 2020

Kenya has strengthened its climate change governance by developing national level instruments. Principle 10 of the Rio Declaration requires countries to ensure that each individual has appropriate access to public environmental information. Kenya has anchored the right to information in its constitution and the 2016 Access to Information Act. However, this legalist approach has left a translation gap since climate change information is availed in a form and language that is largely inaccessible to the public. To address the gap, this study reviewed the effectiveness of dissemination and access to climate change information among Kenyans as a measure of the country’s fidelity to the decisions of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and other Multilateral Environmental Agreements, to which it is party. The study, guided by the diffusion of innovations theoretical framework and the encoding/decoding model, adopted a qualitative research design. Desk research and in-depth interviews were used to collect data. Results revealed that the current dissemination practices of climate change information in Kenya were not effectively reaching grassroots communities due to socio-economic and language barriers. The study recommends repackaging the information into vernacular and non-scientific narratives that resonate with the daily experiences of local Kenyan communities.
Association Between Park Characteristics and Park-Based Physical Activity Using Systematic Observation: Insights from Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Arifwidodo Sigit D. , Chandrasiri Orana
Published: March 2020

Parks hold an essential role in promoting physical activity in urban areas. Studies have found that park characteristics such as park size, facilities, accessibility, and aesthetics are reported to have a positive association with increasing physical activity of the urban populations. However, the evidence in the context of Southeast Asian cities is still lacking, as most studies are from North America and Europe. The study explores the associations between park characteristics and park-based physical activity in Bangkok, Thailand. Ten major public parks were examined using the System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC). Descriptive analysis was used to understand the characteristics of park users and park-based physical activity. A bivariate logistic regression model was employed to determine the variables of park characteristics and of having moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA). We found that parks with bigger sizes and better access to public transport were associated with a higher likelihood of users having MVPA in the park. We also found that adding more facilities in the park, even if they are specifically aimed for physical activity, would not increase the likelihood of having MVPA. The findings from the study suggested that investing in better accessibility and physical quality of existing parks as well as improving equal opportunities for park use will be a more sensible option for promoting park-based physical activity in Bangkok, Thailand.
Operationalizing Accounting Reporting in System Dynamics Models
Authors: Pierson Kawika
Published: March 2020

System dynamics implementations of financial statements are currently limited by the lack of a simple to use, yet sufficiently detailed model that operationally replicates the accounting reporting process for the income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement, and statement of changes in owners’ equity. While system dynamics accounting structures exist, they are inconsistently applied in the literature. In this paper, we offer a comprehensive accounting model in the hope that academics and practitioners will use its structures to better represent accounting reports in their projects.
Comparative legal analysis of protectability of olfactory trademarks
Authors: Odintsov Stanislav , Trubina Marina , Mansour Mohammad
Published: March 2020

In the current growing global commercial turnover of goods and services, there are increasing demands on the ways of their individualization. This applies both to traditional methods of individualization (corporate name, trademark, commercial designation, name of origin, etc.) and non-traditional (olfactory trademarks). The purpose of this study is to study and analyze doctrinal concepts, norms of the current legislation, and law enforcement practice concerning the protection of rights of olfactory trademarks. In order to achieve this objective, the study used a comparative legal method, which analyzed the legal and regulatory framework, as well as the grounds for refusing to register non-traditional trademarks in various legal systems and national jurisdictions. The task of the authors was to conduct a comprehensive study of legislative regulation and practice of legal protection of olfactory trademarks in various jurisdictions. The result of the research is the formulation of a general trend in different jurisdictions toward the legislation on registration of exclusive rights to non-traditional trademarks, which with the help of aromas (smells) allow individualizing the owners of goods produced by them and/or commercial services provided.
The effect of Touch Math multi-sensory program on teaching basic computation skills to young children identified as at risk for the acquisition of computation skills
Authors: ELawady Abdou Rabab Abdallah
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this paper was to investigate the effect of Touch Math multi-sensory program on   teaching basic computation skills to young children identified as at risk for the acquisition of computation skills. The children selected for the present study were all kindergarteners from two public kindergarten schools, located at Nasr city, Cairo. 40 children from both schools were included. Of the children who participated in the study (N= 40), 72% were male and 28% were female. Mean age was 5.3 years. A quasi-experimental, two-groups pretest-posttest design was employed, where the same dependent variables (addition skills and subtraction skills) were measured in the two groups of children before (pretest) and after (posttest) a treatment was administered. Using two-way ANOVA, the author analyzed the data from the pre- and post-test.  The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 18.0. The results of the two-way ANOVA and t- test showed that there were differences in post- test mean scores between experimental and control   groups in addition and subtraction skills. In favor of the experimental group, which indicated the effectiveness of Touch Math multi-sensory program. Implications for practice, recommendations for future research and conclusion were included.