bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dimensioning of Fairway Bends—Kinematic Method of Numerical Simulation
Authors: Gucma Stanisław , Przywarty Marcin , Dzwonkowski Jan , Bilewski Mateusz
Published: February 2020

The article presents a new kinematic method of numerical simulation intended for establishing dimensions of safe manoeuvring areas of bends in various types of fairways for vessels of specific parameters. The method consists of multiple numerical simulations of a ship’s passage (ship’s centre of gravity) through a bend, representing the entire physically possible movement of the ship, and an analysis of simulation results. The developed method was verified on the bends of the Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway, by comparing the results to the exact simulation method of a ship’s movements. The relatively high accuracy and low costs of the method allow it to be used in a concept design of built or modern waterway systems.
Estimation of the Motion Performance of a Light Buoy Adopting Ecofriendly and Lightweight Materials in Waves
Authors: Jeong Se-Min , Son Bo-Hun , Lee Chang-Yull
Published: February 2020

In this study, the methods and results of numerical simulations to estimate the motion performance of a newly developed lightweight light buoy in waves and to check the effect of conceptually developed appendages on that performance were introduced. The results from a potential-based motion analysis with viscous damping coefficients obtained from free decay tests using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and those obtained from wave motion simulation using CFD were compared. From these results, it was confirmed that viscous damping should be considered when the frequency of an incoming wave is close to the natural frequency of the buoy. It was estimated that the pitch and heave motions of the light buoy became smaller when the developed appendages were adopted. Although the quantitative superiority of the appendages was different, the qualitative superiority was similar between both results.
Parsimonious Heterogeneous ARCH Models for High Frequency Modeling
Authors: Ruilova Juan Carlos , Morettin Pedro Alberto
Published: February 2020

In this work we study a variant of the GARCH model when we consider the arrival of heterogeneous information in high-frequency data. This model is known as HARCH(n). We modify the HARCH(n) model when taking into consideration some market components that we consider important to the modeling process. This model, called parsimonious HARCH(m,p), takes into account the heterogeneous information present in the financial market and the long memory of volatility. Some theoretical properties of this model are studied. We used maximum likelihood and Griddy-Gibbs sampling to estimate the parameters of the proposed model and apply it to model the Euro-Dollar exchange rate series.
Sustainability Analysis of Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC Based Restoration of Degraded Land in North India
Authors: Edrisi Sheikh Adil , El-Keblawy Ali , Abhilash Purushothaman Chirakkuzhyil
Published: February 2020

Restoration of marginal and degraded lands is essential for regaining biodiversity and ecosystems services, and thereby attaining UN-Sustainable Development Goals. During the last few decades, many fast growing and hardy trees have been introduced worldwide to restore the marginal and degraded lands for ecosystem stability. Unfortunately, most of these introduced species have become invasive and invaded the nearby productive systems, leading to significant biodiversity loss and land degradation. Therefore, it is imperative to conduct a sustainability analysis of the introduced species for necessary course correction and also for preventing the future utilisation of such species for land restoration. With this backdrop, the present study was conducted to analyse the socio-ecological impacts of a widely used species, i.e., Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC based restoration of degraded land of Lucknow, North India. For this, ecological (soil quality and plant biodiversity) and social (livelihood) indicators have been studied over a period of two years (2015–16) through direct field sampling and questionnaire-based surveys. While there was a positive difference (p < 0.01) in the key physico-chemical properties of the P. juliflora-invaded soil than the non-invaded site, the belowground microbial load was significantly lower (19.46 × 106 g−1 of soil) in invaded land as compared to the non-invaded one (31.01 × 106 g−1). Additionally, the invasion of P. juliflora had significantly reduced the biodiversity by displacing the local flora such as Achyranthes aspera L., Amaranthus spinosus L., Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers, Euphorbia hirta L., etc. The invaded area had only eight plant species having an effective number of species (ENS) of 7.2, whereas the non-invaded area had the presence of 26 plant species with an ENS of 23.8. Although the local people utilised P. juliflora as fuelwood mostly during summer and winter seasons, the invasion resulted in a fodder deficit of 419.97 kg household−1 y−1 leading to resource scarcity in the invaded area in comparison to the non-invaded area. Ecodistribution mapping clearly showed that P. juliflora is already found in most of the tropical and subtropical countries (~103) including in India and has become invasive in many countries. Therefore, we recommend that P. juliflora must be wisely used for the land restoration programs targeted during the United Nations Decade of Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) as this species has invasive traits and thereby reduces the ecosystem sustainability of the invaded areas.
Tribocorrosion Behaviour of Ti6Al4V Produced by Selective Laser Melting for Dental Implants
Authors: Vilhena Luís M. , Shumayal Ahmad , Ramalho Amílcar , Ferreira José António Martins
Published: February 2020

Additively produced Ti6Al4V implants display mechanical properties that are economically infeasible to achieve with conventional subtractive methods. The aim of the present research work was to characterize the tribocorrosion behaviour of the newly produced Ti6Al4V, also known as titanium grade 5, by a selective laser melting (SLM) technique and compare it with another specimen produced by a conventional method. It was found that the tribological properties were of the same order, with the wear rate being k= 6.3 × 10−4 mm3/N·m and k = 8.3 × 10−4 mm3/N·m for respectively, SLM and conventional method. Regarding the friction behaviour, both methods exhibited similar COF in the order of 0.41–0.51. However, electrochemically, the potentiodynamic polarization curves presented some differences mainly in the potential range of the passive films and passive current density formed, with the passive current density being lower for the SLM method.
Electrospun Alginate Nanofibers Toward Various Applications: A Review
Authors: Mokhena Teboho Clement , Mochane Mokgaotsa Jonas , Mtibe Asanda , John Maya Jacob , Sadiku Emmanuel Rotimi , Sefadi Jeremia Shale
Published: February 2020

Alginate has been a material of choice for a spectrum of applications, ranging from metal adsorption to wound dressing. Electrospinning has added a new dimension to polymeric materials, including alginate, which can be processed to their nanosize levels in order to afford unique nanostructured materials with fascinating properties. The resulting nanostructured materials often feature high porosity, stability, permeability, and a large surface-to-volume ratio. In the present review, recent trends on electrospun alginate nanofibers from over the past 10 years toward advanced applications are discussed. The application of electrospun alginate nanofibers in various fields such as bioremediation, scaffolds for skin tissue engineering, drug delivery, and sensors are also elucidated.
Numerical Optimization of the Blank Dimensions in Tube Hydroforming Using Line-Search and Bisection Methods
Authors: Fiorentino Antonio , Ginestra Paola Serena , Attanasio Aldo , Ceretti Elisabetta
Published: February 2020

The change from a consolidated manufacturing practice to a new solution is often a complex problem because of the operative limits of technologies and the strict constraints of industrial parts. Moreover, the new process must reflect or enhance the characteristics of the product and, overall, it must be more competitive in performances and costs. Accordingly, the development of a new process is a multilevel and multivariate problem that requires a systematic and hierarchical approach. The present paper focuses on the development of a Tube Hydroforming process capable to replace the current practice for production of T-Joint parts made of AISI 316L for the water pipes market. In particular, the problem must withstand many process and product constraints. Therefore, it was split in three steps focused on specific aspects of the process: identification of process parameters and configuration, numerical optimization of the blank tube dimensions (length and thickness), experimental tests and final improvements. In particular, two numerical methods were implemented in the optimization step: the line–search method to approach to the optimum point and Bisection method to refine the search. These approaches allowed us to identify the optimum process configuration and, in particular, the optimal dimensions of the blank tube that allows one to achieve the product requirements with the minimum cost of material.
Field-Dependent Stiffness of a Soft Structure Fabricated from Magnetic-Responsive Materials: Magnetorheological Elastomer and Fluid
Authors: Song Byung-Keun , Yoon Ji-Young , Hong Seong-Woo , Choi Seung-Bok
Published: February 2020

A very flexible structure with a tunable stiffness controlled by an external magnetic stimulus is presented. The proposed structure is fabricated using two magnetic-responsive materials, namely a magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) as a skin layer and a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) as a core to fill the void channels of the skin layer. After briefly describing the field-dependent material characteristics of the MRE and MRF, the fabrication procedures of the structure are provided in detail. The MRE skin layer is produced using a precise mold with rectangular void channels to hold the MRF. Two samples are produced, namely with and without MRF, to evaluate the stiffness change attributed to the MRF. A magnetic field is generated using two permanent magnets attached to a specialized jig in a universal tensile machine. The force-displacement relationship of the two samples are measured as a function of magnetic flux density. Stiffness change is analyzed at two different regions, namely a small and large deformation region. The sample with MRF exhibits much higher stiffness increases in the small deformation region than the sample without MRF. Furthermore, the stiffness of the sample with MRF also increases in the large deformation region, while the stiffness of the sample without MRF remains constant. The inherent and advantageous characteristics of the proposed structure are demonstrated through two conceptual applications, namely a haptic rollable keyboard and a smart braille watch.
Compressive Behavior of Circular Sawdust-Reinforced Ice-Filled Flax FRP Tubular Short Columns
Authors: Wang Yanlei , Chen Guipeng , Wan Baolin , Han Baoguo
Published: February 2020

Sawdust-reinforced ice-filled flax fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) tubular (SIFFT) columns are newly proposed to be used as structural components in cold areas. A SIFFT column is composed of an external flax FRP tube filled with sawdust-reinforced ice. The compressive behavior of circular SIFFT short columns was systematically investigated. Four types of short columns with circular sections, including three plain ice specimens, three sawdust-reinforced ice specimens (a mixture of 14% sawdust and 86% ice in weight), nine plain ice-filled flax FRP tubular (PIFFT) specimens and nine SIFFT specimens, were tested to assess the concept of the innovative composite columns. The test variables were the thickness of flax FRP tubes and the type of ice cores. The test results indicated that the lateral dilation and the development of cracks of the ice cores were effectively suppressed by outer flax FRP tubes, thus causing a considerable enhancement in the compressive strength. Moreover, the compressive behavior, energy-absorption capacity, and anti-melting property of sawdust-reinforced ice cores were better than those of plain ice cores confined by flax FRP tubes with the same thicknesses. The proposed equations for estimating ultimate bearing capacities of PIFFT and SIFFT short columns were shown to provide reasonable and accurate predictions.
Amino Anthraquinone: Synthesis, Characterization, and Its Application as an Active Material in Environmental Sensors
Authors: Ali Salman , Tahir Muhammad , Mehboob Nasir , Wahab Fazal , J. Langford Steven , Mohd Said Suhana , R. Sarker Mahidur , Julai Sabariah , Hamid Md Ali Sawal
Published: February 2020

This work reports synthesis, thin film characterizations, and study of an organic semiconductor 2-aminoanthraquinone (AAq) for humidity and temperature sensing applications. The morphological and phase studies of AAq thin films are carried out by scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. To study the sensing properties of AAq, a surface type Au/AAq/Au sensor is fabricated by thermally depositing a 60 nm layer of AAq at a pressure of ~10−5 mbar on a pre-patterned gold (Au) electrodes with inter-electrode gap of 45 µm. To measure sensing capability of the Au/AAq/Au device, the variations in its capacitance and resistance are studied as a function of humidity and temperature. The Au/AAq/Au device measures and exhibits a linear change in capacitance and resistance when relative humidity (%RH) and temperature are varied. The AAq is a hydrophobic material which makes it one of the best candidates to be used as an active material in humidity sensors; on the other hand, its high melting point (575 K) is another appealing property that enables it for its potential applications in temperature sensors.
The Influence of the Welding Process on the Ultrasonic Inspection of 9%Ni Steel Pipe Circumferential Welded Joints
Authors: da Cruz Payão Filho João , Kimus Dias Passos Elisa , Stohler Gonzaga Rodrigo , Drumond Santos Daniel , Pereira Maia Vinicius , Russo Juliano Diego
Published: February 2020

This work aims to compare the ultrasonic inspection of 9%Ni steel joints welded with the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) process and Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) process. These are the two most widely used processes used to weld pipes for CO2 injection units for floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) in the Brazilian oil and gas industry. The SMAW equipment is simple and portable, which is convenient for the FPSO; however, the GMAW process has the advantage of welding with high productivity. In this study we performed a numerical simulation using the software CIVA, 11th version, to analyze the behavior of ultrasonic longitudinal wave beams through GMAW and SMAW dissimilar weld joints. Ultrasonic tests were performed on calibration blocks drawn from both welded joints to evaluate the simulation results. The results are discussed with regard to the microstructure of the weld metal via electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analyses. The SMAW process presented better inspection performance than the GMAW process in terms of attenuation and dispersion effects. Although the SMAW had a better outcome, for both processes the configuration of 16 active elements and a scanning angle of 48° resulted in an optimized inspection of the entire joint.
Microstructure and Wear Properties of Micro Arc Oxidation Ceramic Coatings
Authors: Qi Xiaoben , Shang Hailong , Ma Bingyang , Zhang Rulin , Guo Leyang , Su Bo
Published: February 2020

The interaction effect of micro arc oxidation (MAO) parameters on the microstructure and wear properties was investigated. The results showed that the electric current and oxidation time significantly influenced the thickness and grinding crack width of the ceramic coatings within the range of the selected parameters, and the interaction effect of the electrical parameters was not obvious. The surface morphology, cross-section morphology, and element distribution of the coatings were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that ceramic coatings with γ-Al2O3 and α-Al2O3 formed, which enhanced the coating performance. After that, the microhardness and wear resistance were tested. Under the optimal process, the microhardness of a coating section was up to 1200 HV0.1, and the friction coefficient was just 0.3. When wear occurred, the volcanic microstructures experienced extrusion and deformation, and then peeled off under shear stress, which led to the formation of a grinding crack. The main failure modes of the micro arc oxidation coatings were abrasive wear and spalling failure.
Effects of Silicon Content and Tempering Temperature on the Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of HT-9 Steels
Authors: Liu Junkai , Liu Wenbo , Hao Zhe , Shi Tiantian , Kang Long , Cui Zhexin , Yun Di
Published: February 2020

Two kinds of experimental ferritic/martensitic steels (HT-9) with different Si contents were designed for the fourth-generation advanced nuclear reactor cladding material. The effects of Si content and tempering temperature on microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of these HT-9 steel were studied. The microstructure of experimental steels after quenching and tempering were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM); the mechanical properties were investigated by means of tensile test, Charpy impact test, and hardness test. The microscopic mechanism of how the microstructural evolution influences mechanical properties was also discussed. Both XRD and TEM results showed that no residual austenite was detected after heat treatment. The results of mechanical tests showed that the yield strength, tensile strength, and plasticity of the experimental steels with 0.42% (% in mass) Si are higher than that with 0.19% Si, whereas hardness and toughness did not change much; when tempered at 760 °C, the strength and hardness of the experimental steels decreased slightly compared with those tempered at 710 °C, whereas plasticity and toughness increased. Further analysis showed that after quenching at 1050 °C for 1 h and tempering at 760 °C for 1.5 h, the comprehensive mechanical properties of the 0.42% Si experimental steel are the best compared with other experimental steels.
Effect of Mo Concentration on the Microstructure Evolution and Properties of High Boron Cast Steel
Authors: Chen Zhiguo , Miao Sen , Kong Lingnan , Wei Xiang , Zhang Feihong , Yu Hongbin
Published: February 2020

The microstructure evolution, mechanical properties, and tribological properties of high boron cast steel (HBCS) with various Mo concentrations are investigated. The results indicate that Mo addition can significantly modify the microstructure and enhance the comprehensive properties. With the increase of Mo concentration, borides change from the original fish-bone Fe-rich and Cr-rich M2B to dendritic Fe-rich M2B, blocky and cluster-like Cr-rich M2B, and grainy Mo-rich M2B. The hardness of HBCS increases gradually with the increase of Mo content due to the solid solution strengthening and the refinement of M2B. It can be found that all the samples exhibit quasi-cleavage, but the impact toughness increases firstly and reaches the maximum value when the concentration of Mo is 2.10 wt.%, which is the result of the dispersive distribution of M2B rather than the original fish-bone M2B. Subsequently, the impact toughness begins to decrease as the concentration of Mo further increases because of the extensive formation of grainy Mo-rich M2B at the grain boundary. Meanwhile, the wear results reveal that the average friction coefficient and wear ratio decrease with the increase of Mo content, and the wear mechanism changes from abrasive wear and adhesive wear to abrasive wear when the concentration of Mo exceeds 2.10 wt.%.
Solving Robust Variants of the Maximum Weighted Independent Set Problem on Trees
Authors: Klobučar Ana , Manger Robert
Published: February 2020

This paper deals with the maximum weighted independent set (MWIS) problem. We consider several robust variants of the MWIS problem on trees and prove that most of them are NP-hard. We propose a heuristic for solving the considered robust MWIS variants, which is customized for trees. We demonstrate by experiments that our algorithm produces high-quality solutions and runs much faster than a general-purpose optimization software.
xAct Implementation of the Theory of Cosmological Perturbation in Bianchi I Spacetimes
Authors: Agullo Ivan , Olmedo Javier , Sreenath Vijayakumar
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a computational algorithm to derive the theory of linear gauge invariant perturbations on anisotropic cosmological spacetimes of the Bianchi I type. Our code is based on the tensor algebra packages xTensor and xPert, within the computational infrastructure of xAct written in Mathematica. The algorithm is based on a Hamiltonian, or phase space formulation, and it provides an efficient and transparent way of isolating the gauge invariant degrees of freedom in the perturbation fields and to obtain the Hamiltonian generating their dynamics. The restriction to Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker spacetimes is straightforward.
Some Fixed Point Theorems of Ćirić Type in Fuzzy Metric Spaces
Authors: Rakić Dušan , Došenović Tatjana , Mitrović Zoran D. , de la Sen Manuel , Radenović Stojan
Published: February 2020

The main aim of the current paper is the investigation of possibilities for improvements and generalizations contractive condition of Ćirić in the fuzzy metric spaces. Various versions of fuzzy contractive conditions are studied in two directions. First, motivated by recent results, more general contractive conditions in fuzzy metric spaces are achieved and secondly, quasi-contractive type of mappings are investigated in order to obtain fixed point results with a wider class of t-norms.
Efficacy of Antihypertensive Therapy in a Child with Unilateral Focal Fibromuscular Dysplasia of the Renal Artery: A Case Study and Review of Literature
Authors: Acharya Ratna , Ellenwood Savannah , Upadhyay Kiran
Published: February 2020

Background: Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is one of the important etiologies of renovascular hypertension in children. It is usually resistant to multiple antihypertensive agents and can cause extreme elevation in blood pressures, which can lead to end organ damage if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Treatment options include medical management with antihypertensive agents, balloon or stent angioplasties, surgical revascularization, and nephrectomy. The aim of the study was to review the efficacy of antihypertensive therapy only in the management of FMD in a very young child. Methods: This is a retrospective chart study with review of literature. Results: Here, we report a 22-month-old toddler who presented with severe resistant hypertension and cardiomyopathy who was found to have focal FMD of the right renal artery. She also presented with proteinuria, hyponatremia that was probably secondary to pressure natriuresis, hypokalemia, hyperaldosteronism, and elevated plasma renin activity. The stabilization of blood pressures was done medically with the usage of antihypertensive medications only, without the need for angioplasty or surgical revascularization. Conclusions: We demonstrate that surgical intervention may not always be necessary in the treatment of all cases of FMD, especially in a small child where such intervention may be technically challenging and lead to potential complications. Hence, medical management alone may be sufficient, at least for the short-term, in small children with controlled hypertension and normal renal function, with surgical intervention reserved for FMD with medication-refractory hypertension and/or compromised renal function.
A Comprehensive Study into the Boltless Connections of Racking Systems
Authors: Vujanac Rodoljub , Miloradović Nenad , Vulović Snežana , Pavlović Ana
Published: February 2020

In practice, structures of pallet racks are characterized by very wide options of beam-to-column connections. The up to date part of the standard Eurocode 3 considers details for the design of connections. However, experimental determination of the joint properties in steel pallet racks is the most reliable process, since it takes into account an inability to develop a general analytical model for the design of these connections. In this paper, a test procedure for the behavior of beam-to-column connections is presented and the results are analyzed according to the procedure defined in the relevant design codes. With aim to avoid expensive experiments to determine structural properties of different types of connections, a polynomial model and a corresponding numerical model were developed to be used for simulating the experiment. After verification, the developed analytical and numerical model can be applied for investigation of various combinations of beam-to-column connections.
Effects of Positions and Angulations of Titanium Dental Implants in Biomechanical Performances in the All-on-Four Treatment: 3D Numerical and Strain Gauge Methods
Authors: Wu Aaron Yu-Jen , Hsu Jui-Ting , Fuh Lih-Jyh , Huang Heng-Li
Published: February 2020

In finite element (FE) simulations, the peak bone stresses were higher when loading with a cantilever extension (CE) than when loading without a CE by 33–49% in the cortical bone. In the in vitro experiments, the highest values of principal strain were all within the range of the minimum principal strain, and those peak bone strains were 40–58% greater when loading with a CE than when loading without a CE (p < 0.001). This study investigated how varying the implanted position and angulation of anterior implants in the All-on-Four treatment influenced the biomechanical environment in the alveolar bone around the dental implants. Ten numerical simulations of FE models and three in vitro samples of All-on-Four treatment of dental implants were created to investigate the effects of altering the implanted position and angulation type of anterior implants. A single load of 100 N was applied in the molar region in the presence or absence of a CE of the denture. The 3D FE simulations analyzed the von-Mises stresses in the surrounding cortical bone and trabecular bone. For the in vitro tests, the principal bone strains were recorded by rosette strain gauges and statistically evaluated using the Mann–Whitney U test and the Kruskal–Wallis test. Loading in the presence of a CE of the denture induced the highest bone stress and strain, which were 53–97% greater in the FE simulation and 68–140% in the in vitro experiments (p < 0.008) than when loading without a CE. The bone stresses in the FE models of various implanted positions and angulation types of anterior implants were similar to those in the model of a typical All-on-Four treatment. In vitro tests revealed that the bone strains were significantly higher in the samples with various angulation types of anterior implants (p < 0.008). In the All-on-Four treatment of dental implants, the bone stress and strain were higher when the load was applied to the CE of dentures. Altering the position or angulation of the anterior dental implant in the All-on-Four treatment has no benefit in relieving the stress and strain of the bone around the dental implant.
Influence of Martensite Deformation on Cu Precipitation Strengthening
Authors: Dlouhy Jaromir , Podany Pavel , ǅugan Ján
Published: February 2020

Cu precipitation strengthening was compared in steels after treatments with and without cold rolling. A 0.2% C steel containing up to 1.5% Cu was quenched and tempered. Cu precipitation took place during tempering and increased its yield strength (YS). Quenched and tempered samples were compared with samples where cold rolling was performed between quenching and tempering. They exhibited significantly different mechanical properties. In addition, Cu alloying influenced the properties of each group of samples in different ways. The quenched and tempered samples exhibited behavior that is typical of precipitation hardening. Cu caused yield strength to increase with tempering temperature and time. The cold rolling of martensite reduced the maximal Cu-related strengthening and also eliminated its time and temperature dependence.
Ab Initio Calculations on Elastic Properties of IF Steel Matrix Phase at High Temperature Based on Lattice Expansion Theory
Authors: Ai Songyuan , Long Mujun , Zhang Siyuan , Chen Dengfu , Dong Zhihua , Liu Peng , Zhang Yanming , Duan Huamei
Published: February 2020

Elucidating the evolution law of the elastic properties of the matrix phase is of great significance for the control of steel properties and quality during continuous casting and subsequent heat treatment. In this paper, thermal expansion experiments and ab initio calculations are used to study the elastic properties of the interstitial free (IF) steel matrix phase in different magnetic states and crystal structures. The results show that the bulk modulus B and the tetragonal shear elastic constant C’ for the entire temperature range decrease with increasing temperature, but C44 is the opposite. While from paramagnetic (PM) to ferromagnetic (FM) state, C’(C44) have changed ~188% (~27%), B increases by ~55% during the crystal structure change (fcc→bcc). With the FM to PM state, the Zener anisotropy parameter increases sharply, and Young’s modulus decreases significantly in the [001] direction; the maximum difference is ~76 GPa. The evolution rate of average Young’s modulus in single bcc-phase FM (fcc-phase PM) range reaches ~5.5(~5.6) × 10−2 GPa K−1. The research provides an effective method for ab initio calculation of the elastic properties of interstitial free and ultra-low carbon steels at high temperature, also furnishing a basis for the application of ab initio calculations to the high temperature performance of steel materials.
Review of MEMS Based Fourier Transform Spectrometers
Authors: Chai Junyu , Zhang Kun , Xue Yuan , Liu Wenguang , Chen Tian , Lu Yao , Zhao Guomin
Published: February 2020

Fourier transform spectrometers (FTS), mostly working in infrared (IR) or near infrared (NIR) range, provide a variety of chemical or material analysis with high sensitivity and accuracy and are widely used in public safety, environmental monitoring and national border security, such as explosive detection. However, because of being bulky and expensive, they are usually used in test centers and research laboratories. Miniaturized FTS have been developed rapidly in recent years, due to the increasing demands. Using micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) micromirrors to replace the movable mirror in a conventional FTS system becomes a new realm. This paper first introduces the principles and common applications of conventional FTS, and then reviews various MEMS based FTS devices.
Effects of Top-hat Laser Beam Processing and Scanning Strategies in Laser Micro-Structuring
Authors: Le Hoang , Penchev Pavel , Henrottin Anne , Bruneel David , Nasrollahi Vahid , Ramos-de-Campos Jose A. , Dimov Stefan
Published: February 2020

The uniform energy distribution of top-hat laser beams is a very attractive property that can offer some advantages compared to Gaussian beams. Especially, the desired intensity distribution can be achieved at the laser spot through energy redistribution across the beam spatial profile and, thus, to minimize and even eliminate some inherent shortcomings in laser micro-processing. This paper reports an empirical study that investigates the effects of top-hat beam processing in micro-structuring and compares the results with those obtainable with a conventional Gaussian beam. In particular, a refractive field mapping beam shaper was used to obtain a top-hat profile and the effects of different scanning strategies, pulse energy settings, and accumulated fluence, i.e., hatch and pulse distances, were investigated. In general, the top-hat laser processing led to improvements in surface and structuring quality. Especially, the taper angle was reduced while the surface roughness and edge definition were also improved compared to structures produced with Gaussian beams. A further decrease of the taper angle was achieved by combining hatching with some outlining beam passes. The scanning strategies with only outlining beam passes led to very high ablation rates but in expense of structuring quality. Improvements in surface roughness were obtained with a wide range of pulse energies and pulse and hatch distances when top-hat laser processing was used.
pH and Phosphate Induced Shifts in Carbon Flow and Microbial Community during Thermophilic Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Lackner Nina , Wagner Andreas O. , Markt Rudolf , Illmer Paul
Published: February 2020

pH is a central environmental factor influencing CH4 production from organic substrates, as every member of the complex microbial community has specific pH requirements. Here, we show how varying pH conditions (5.0–8.5, phosphate buffered) and the application of a phosphate buffer per se induce shifts in the microbial community composition and the carbon flow during nine weeks of thermophilic batch digestion. Beside monitoring the methane production as well as volatile fatty acid concentrations, amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was conducted. The presence of 100 mM phosphate resulted in reduced CH4 production during the initial phase of the incubation, which was characterized by a shift in the dominant methanogenic genera from a mixed Methanosarcina and Methanoculleus to a pure Methanoculleus system. In buffered samples, acetate strongly accumulated in the beginning of the batch digestion and subsequently served as a substrate for methanogens. Methanogenesis was permanently inhibited at pH values ≤5.5, with the maximum CH4 production occurring at pH 7.5. Adaptations of the microbial community to the pH variations included shifts in the archaeal and bacterial composition, as less competitive organisms with a broad pH range were able to occupy metabolic niches at unfavorable pH conditions.
Scientific Prospects for Cannabis-Microbiome Research to Ensure Quality and Safety of Products
Authors: Vujanovic Vladimir , Korber Darren R. , Vujanovic Silva , Vujanovic Josko , Jabaji Suha
Published: February 2020

Cannabis legalization has occurred in several countries worldwide. Along with steadily growing research in Cannabis healthcare science, there is an increasing interest for scientific-based knowledge in plant microbiology and food science, with work connecting the plant microbiome and plant health to product quality across the value chain of cannabis. This review paper provides an overview of the state of knowledge and challenges in Cannabis science, and thereby identifies critical risk management and safety issues in order to capitalize on innovations while ensuring product quality control. It highlights scientific gap areas to steer future research, with an emphasis on plant-microbiome sciences committed to using cutting-edge technologies for more efficient Cannabis production and high-quality products intended for recreational, pharmaceutical, and medicinal use.
Occurrence, Diversity of Listeria spp. Isolates from Food and Food-Contact Surfaces and the Presence of Virulence Genes
Authors: Rossi Franca , Amadoro Carmela , Conficoni Daniele , Giaccone Valerio , Colavita Giampaolo
Published: February 2020

This study evaluates the hazards posed by foodborne bacteria of the Listeria genus by analyzing the occurrence, diversity and virulence of Listeria spp.in food and food-manufacturing plants. Seventy-five isolates obtained from the routine analysis of 653 samples taken by three diagnostic laboratories in Northern Italy were genotypically differentiated by Repetitive Extragenic Palindrome (rep) PCR, with the GTG5 primer identified by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene and examined by specific PCR tests for the presence of L. monocytogenes virulence determinants occasionally found to occur in other species of the genus. Within this sample, 76% (n = 57) isolates were identified as L. innocua, 16% (n = 12) as L. monocytogenes, 6.6% (n = 5) as L. welshimeri and 1.3% (n = 1) as L. seeligeri. All L. monocytogenes isolates belonged to the serotype 1/2a and were predicted to be virulent for the presence of the inlJ internalin gene. Potentially virulent strains of L. innocua, L. seeligeri and L. welshimeri, carrying the L. monocytogenesinlA gene and/or hly gene, were identified, and most isolates were found to possess the toxin–antitoxin system mazEF for efficient adaptation to heat shock. Results indicated the need to reinforce food-contamination-prevention measures against all Listeria species by defining efficiently their environmental distribution.
Proteomic and Transcriptional Profiles of Human Stem Cell-Derived β Cells Following Enteroviral Challenge
Authors: Nyalwidhe Julius O. , Jurczyk Agata , Satish Basanthi , Redick Sambra , Qaisar Natasha , Trombly Melanie I. , Vangala Pranitha , Racicot Riccardo , Bortell Rita , Harlan David M. , Greiner Dale L. , Brehm Michael A. , Nadler Jerry L. , Wang Jennifer P.
Published: February 2020

Enteroviral infections are implicated in islet autoimmunity and type 1 diabetes (T1D) pathogenesis. Significant β-cell stress and damage occur with viral infection, leading to cells that are dysfunctional and vulnerable to destruction. Human stem cell-derived β (SC-β) cells are insulin-producing cell clusters that closely resemble native β cells. To better understand the events precipitated by enteroviral infection of β cells, we investigated transcriptional and proteomic changes in SC-β cells challenged with coxsackie B virus (CVB). We confirmed infection by demonstrating that viral protein colocalized with insulin-positive SC-β cells by immunostaining. Transcriptome analysis showed a decrease in insulin gene expression following infection, and combined transcriptional and proteomic analysis revealed activation of innate immune pathways, including type I interferon (IFN), IFN-stimulated genes, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and downstream inflammatory cytokines, and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. Finally, insulin release by CVB4-infected SC-β cells was impaired. These transcriptional, proteomic, and functional findings are in agreement with responses in primary human islets infected with CVB ex vivo. Human SC-β cells may serve as a surrogate for primary human islets in virus-induced diabetes models. Because human SC-β cells are more genetically tractable and accessible than primary islets, they may provide a preferred platform for investigating T1D pathogenesis and developing new treatments.
A Rare Glimpse into the Past of the Anthrax Pathogen Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Braun Peter , Knüpfer Mandy , Antwerpen Markus , Triebel Dagmar , Grass Gregor
Published: February 2020

The bacterium Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of the zoonotic disease anthrax. While genomics of extant B. anthracis isolates established in-depth phylogenomic relationships, there is scarce information on the historic genomics of the pathogen. Here, we characterized the oldest documented B. anthracis specimen. The inactive 142-year-old material originated from a bovine diseased in Chemnitz (Germany) in 1878 and is contemporary with the seminal studies of Robert Koch on B. anthracis. A specifically developed isolation method yielded high-quality DNA from this specimen for genomic sequencing. The bacterial chromosome featuring 242 unique base-characters placed it into a major phylogenetic clade of B. anthracis (B.Branch CNEVA), which is typical for central Europe today. Our results support the notion that the CNEVA-clade represents part of the indigenous genetic lineage of B. anthracis in this part of Europe. This work emphasizes the value of historic specimens as precious resources for reconstructing the past phylogeny of the anthrax pathogen.
Identification of Species and Subspecies of Lactic Acid Bacteria Present in Spanish Cheeses Type “Torta” by MALDI-TOF MS and pheS gene Analyses
Authors: Sánchez-Juanes Fernando , Teixeira-Martín Vanessa , González-Buitrago José Manuel , Velázquez Encarna , Flores-Félix José David
Published: February 2020

Several artisanal cheeses are elaborated in European countries, being commonly curdled with rennets of animal origin. However, in some Spanish regions some cheeses of type “Torta” are elaborated using Cynara cardunculus L. rennets. Two of these cheeses, “Torta del Casar” and “Torta de Trujillo”, are elaborated in Cáceres province with ewe’s raw milk and matured over at least 60 days without starters. In this work, we identified the lactic acid bacteria present in these cheeses using MALDI-TOF MS and pheS gene analyses, which showed they belong to the species Lactobacillus curvatus, Lactobacillus diolivorans, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactococcus lactis and Leuconostoc mesenteroides. The pheS gene analysis also allowed the identification of the subspecies La. plantarum subsp. plantarum, La. paracasei subsp. paracasei and Le. mesenteroides subsp. jonggajibkimchii. Low similarity values were found in this gene for some currently accepted subspecies of Lc. lactis and for the two subspecies of La. plantarum, and values near to 100% for the subspecies of Le. mesenteroides and La. paracasei. These results, which were confirmed by the calculated ANIb and dDDH values of their whole genomes, showed the need to revise the taxonomic status of these species and their subspecies.
Carotenoids from Cyanobacteria: A Biotechnological Approach for the Topical Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Lopes Graciliana , Clarinha Duarte , Vasconcelos Vitor
Published: February 2020

In this study, five cyanobacteria strains (Alkalinema aff. pantanalense LEGE15481, Cyanobium gracile LEGE12431, Nodosilinea (Leptolyngbya) antarctica LEGE13457, Cuspidothrix issatschenkoi LEGE03282 and Leptolyngbya-like sp. LEGE13412) from the Blue Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology Culture Collection (LEGE CC) of CIIMAR were explored for their biotechnological potential in the treatment of psoriasis. Different extracts were characterized for their pigment profile by HPLC-PDA. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was assessed against the superoxide anion radical (O2•-). Their anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative potential was assessed in vitro using the macrophages RAW 264.7 and the human keratinocytes HaCaT as cell-line models, respectively. Terrestrial and freshwater strains presented the highest carotenoid content (33193−63926 μg/g dry extract), with all-trans-β-carotene, zeaxanthin, echinenone and lutein derivatives being the most abundant carotenoids. Acetone was the most effective solvent for pigment extraction. The acetone extracts presented the lowest IC50 values (0.29−0.38 mg dry extract/mL) regarding O2•- scavenging, and revealed anti-inflammatory potential, with N. antarctica LEGE13457, A. pantanalense LEGE15481 and Leptolyngbya-like sp. LEGE13412 reducing the nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 cell culture medium in about 25% (p < 0.05). With the exception of A. pantanalense LEGE15481, all the extracts significantly reduced keratinocyte proliferation (p < 0.05), demonstrating a selective toxicity among the different cell lines. Overall, Leptolyngbya-like sp. LEGE13412 and N. antarctica LEGE13457 seem promising for further exploitation in the framework of psoriasis, due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative potential.
All-Dielectric Meta-Surface for Multispectral Photography by Theta Modulation
Authors: Xiang Meng , Kuang Dengfeng , Kong Weichao , Huang Zengxin , Gu Panchun , Li Wenshuang
Published: February 2020

The traditional theta modulator encodes input information by superimposing Ronchi sub-gratings, which is extremely easy to cause spatial channel overlap that results in bands mixing. In this case, we present an all-dielectric theta modulation meta-surface with a new encoding method, which separates red, green, blue, and achromatic spatial channels on the focal plane. The meta-surface ensures that the positions of focal points are relatively consistent while focusing energy into the sub-wavelength regions. Our study offers a way to facilitate device miniaturization and system integration, which may have an important application in compact multispectral photography only with one detector.
Overfeeding during Lactation in Rats is Associated with Cardiovascular Insulin Resistance in the Short-Term
Authors: González-Hedström Daniel , Guerra-Menéndez Lucía , Tejera-Muñoz Antonio , Amor Sara , Fuente-Fernández María de la , Martín-Carro Beatriz , Arriazu Riansares , García-Villalón Ángel Luis , Granado Miriam
Published: February 2020

Childhood obesity is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities. The development of these alterations may have its origin in early life stages such as the lactation period through metabolic programming. Insulin resistance is a common complication in obese patients and may be responsible for the cardiovascular alterations associated with this condition. This study analyzed the development of cardiovascular insulin resistance in a rat model of childhood overweight induced by overfeeding during the lactation period. On birth day, litters were divided into twelve (L12) or three pups per mother (L3). Overfed rats showed a lower increase in myocardial contractility in response to insulin perfusion and a reduced insulin-induced vasodilation, suggesting a state of cardiovascular insulin resistance. Vascular insulin resistance was due to decreased activation of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway, whereas cardiac insulin resistance was associated with mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) hyperactivity. Early overfeeding was also associated with a proinflammatory and pro-oxidant state; endothelial dysfunction; decreased release of nitrites and nitrates; and decreased gene expression of insulin receptor (IR), glucose transporter-4 (GLUT-4), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in response to insulin. In conclusion, overweight induced by lactational overnutrition in rat pups is associated with cardiovascular insulin resistance that could be related to the cardiovascular alterations associated with this condition.
Safety Assessment of Bacteroides Uniformis CECT 7771, a Symbiont of the Gut Microbiota in Infants
Authors: Gómez del Pulgar Eva M. , Benítez-Páez Alfonso , Sanz Yolanda
Published: February 2020

The formulation of next-generation probiotics requires competent preclinical studies to show their efficacy and safety status. This study aims to confirm the safety of the prolonged oral use of Bacteroides uniformis CECT 7771, a strain that protected against metabolic disorders and obesity in preclinical trials, in a sub-chronic 90 day trial in animals. The safety assessment was conducted in male and female Wistar rats (n = 50) administered increasing doses (108 CFU/day, 109 CFU/day, or 1010 CFU/day) of B. uniformis CECT 7771, 1010 CFU/day of B. longum ATCC 15707T, which complies with the qualifying presumption of safety (QPS) status of the EU, or vehicle (placebo), as the control. Pancreatic, liver, and kidney functions and cytokine concentrations were analyzed. Bacterial translocation to peripheral tissues was evaluated, and colon integrity was investigated histologically. No adverse metabolic or tissue integrity alterations were associated with treatments; however, alanine aminotransferase levels and the ratio of anti-inflammatory to pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum indicated a potentially beneficial role of B. uniformis CECT 7771 at specific doses. Additionally, the microbial community structure was modified by the interventions, and potentially beneficial gut bacteria were increased. The results indicated that the oral consumption of B. uniformis CECT 7771 during a sub-chronic 90 day study in rats did not raise safety concerns.