bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of CoCr Alloy Characteristics by Ti-Based Carbonitride Coatings Used in Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Dinu Mihaela , Pana Iulian , Scripca Petronela , Sandu Ioan Gabriel , Vitelaru Catalin , Vladescu Alina
Published: May 2020

The response of the human body to implanted biomaterials involves several complex reactions. The potential success of implantation depends on the knowledge of the interaction between the biomaterials and the corrosive environment prior to the implantation. Thus, in the present study, the in vitro corrosion behavior of biocompatible carbonitride-based coatings are discussed, based on microstructure, mechanical properties, roughness and morphology. TiCN and TiSiCN coatings were prepared by the cathodic arc deposition method and were analyzed as a possible solution for load bearing implants. It was found that both coatings have an almost stoichiometric structure, being solid solutions, which consist of a mixture of TiC and TiN, with a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. The crystallite size decreased with the addition of Si into the TiCN matrix: the crystallite size of TiCN was 16.4 nm, while TiSiCN was 14.6 nm. The addition of Si into TiCN resulted in smaller Ra roughness values, indicating a beneficial effect of Si. All investigated surfaces have positive skewness, being adequate for the load bearing implants, which work in a corrosive environment. The hardness of the TiCN coating was 36.6 ± 2.9 GPa and was significantly increased to 47.4 ± 1 GPa when small amounts of Si were added into the TiCN layer structure. A sharp increase in resistance to plastic deformation (H3/E2 ratio) from 0.63 to 1.1 was found after the addition of Si into the TiCN matrix. The most electropositive value of corrosion potential was found for the TiSiCN coating (−14 mV), as well as the smallest value of corrosion current density (49.6 nA cm2), indicating good corrosion resistance in 90% DMEM + 10% FBS, at 37 ± 0.5 °C.
Spectral-Based SPD Matrix Representation for Signal Detection Using a Deep Neutral Network
Authors: Wang Jiangyi , Hua Xiaoqiang , Zeng Xinwu
Published: May 2020

The symmetric positive definite (SPD) matrix has attracted much attention in classification problems because of its remarkable performance, which is due to the underlying structure of the Riemannian manifold with non-negative curvature as well as the use of non-linear geometric metrics, which have a stronger ability to distinguish SPD matrices and reduce information loss compared to the Euclidean metric. In this paper, we propose a spectral-based SPD matrix signal detection method with deep learning that uses time-frequency spectra to construct SPD matrices and then exploits a deep SPD matrix learning network to detect the target signal. Using this approach, the signal detection problem is transformed into a binary classification problem on a manifold to judge whether the input sample has target signal or not. Two matrix models are applied, namely, an SPD matrix based on spectral covariance and an SPD matrix based on spectral transformation. A simulated-signal dataset and a semi-physical simulated-signal dataset are used to demonstrate that the spectral-based SPD matrix signal detection method with deep learning has a gain of 1.7–3.3 dB under appropriate conditions. The results show that our proposed method achieves better detection performances than its state-of-the-art spectral counterparts that use convolutional neural networks.
Sicca Symptoms, Oral Health Conditions, Salivary Flow and Oral Candida in Sjögren’s Syndrome Patients
Authors: Xin Weini , Leung Katherine Chiu Man , Lo Edward Chin Man , Mok Mo Yin , Leung Moon Ho
Published: May 2020

This study aimed to investigate the relationships among sicca symptoms, oral health conditions, salivary profiles and oral Candida in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) patients. Eighty-five SS patients (mean age = 50.5) and 40 healthy non-SS individuals (mean age = 51.4) were recruited. They self-completed the Sicca Symptoms Inventory (SSI). Decayed, missing and filled surface (DMFS) scores, salivary flow rates, pH and oral Candida colonization were determined. Mean SSI summary scores of SS patients and non-SS individuals were 11.1 and 5.4 respectively (p < 0.001). The most prevalent sicca symptoms in SS patients were eye irritation (93%), dry throat or nose (88%) and need of fluid for mouth wetting (88%). SS patients had significantly lower whole salivary flow rates than the non-SS individuals. Candida strains were isolated from over 60% of SS patients but not in non-SS patients. C. albicans was the predominant species. SSI summary score was negatively correlated to salivary flow rates while SSI summary and domain scores were positively correlated to the number of filled surfaces (FS) and DMFS scores and oral Candida counts. In conclusion, SS patients had more severe sicca symptoms than non-SS individuals. SSI scores were negatively correlated to the salivary flow rates but positively correlated to caries experience and oral Candida colonization.
Low-Intensity Physical Exercise Improves Pain Catastrophizing and Other Psychological and Physical Aspects in Women with Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Izquierdo-Alventosa Ruth , Inglés Marta , Cortés-Amador Sara , Gimeno-Mallench Lucia , Chirivella-Garrido Javier , Kropotov Juri , Serra-Añó Pilar
Published: May 2020

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic syndrome characterized by widespread pain and other physical and psychological features. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effect of a low-intensity physical exercise (PE) program, combining endurance training and coordination, on psychological aspects (i.e., pain catastrophizing, anxiety, depression, stress), pain perception (i.e., pain acceptance, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and quality of life and physical conditioning (i.e., self-perceived functional capacity, endurance and functional capacity, power and velocity) in women with FM. For this purpose, a randomized controlled trial was carried out. Thirty-two women with FM were randomly allocated to a PE group (PEG, n = 16), performing an eight-week low-intensity PE program and a control group (CG, n = 16). Pain catastrophizing, anxiety, depression, stress, pain acceptance, PPT, quality of life, self-perceived functional capacity, endurance and functional capacity, power, and velocity were assessed before and after the intervention. We observed a significant improvement in all studied variables in the PEG after the intervention (p < 0.05). In contrast, the CG showed no improvements in any variable, which further displayed poorer values for PPT (p < 0.05). In conclusion, a low-intensity combined PE program, including endurance training and coordination, improves psychological variables, pain perception, quality of life, and physical conditioning in women with FM.
Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) in Spanish People with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Preliminary Values Study
Authors: Domínguez-Muñoz Francisco Javier , Garcia-Gordillo Miguel Angel , Diaz-Torres Rodrigo Anibal , Hernandez-Mocholi Miguel Ángel , Villafaina Santos , Collado-Mateo Daniel , Jiménez-Fernández Carmen , Igual-Fraile Dimas , Pérez-Escanilla Fernando , Martín-Gómez Giovanna , Adsuar José Carmelo , Gusi Narcis
Published: May 2020

Background and objectives: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease characterized by hyperglycemia. T2DM affects millions of people, and has a lot of complications such as impaired sensation in the feet. Moreover, it is important to know the health of the feet of people with T2DM. The aim of this study is to know the preliminary values of the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) in people with T2DM. Materials and Methods: A total of 87 patients with T2DM with an average age of 65.56 years, divided in 54 men and 33 women, participated in this cross-sectional study. The main outcome was the health of the foot as measured by the FHSQ questionnaire. This questionnaire collects data on eight dimensions: Foot Pain, Foot Function, Shoe, General Foot Health, General Health, Physical Activity, Social Capacity, and Vigor. Results: Patients with T2DM have lower values in Foot Pain; median values in General Foot Health and high values in Foot Function, Shoe, Physical Activity and Social Capacity. Some of these dimensions are affected by age, diabetes control, Body Mass Index (BMI), and years of diagnosis. Females with T2DM have more problems than males in the Shoe, General Foot Health, Physical Activity and Vigor dimensions. Conclusions: this research gives us preliminary values of the FHSQ in Spanish patients with T2DM and divided by gender, age, diabetes control, BMI, and years of diagnosis in people with T2DM.
Child Growth Curves in High-Altitude Ladakh: Results from a Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Wen-Chien , Fu Chun-Min , Su Bo-Wei , Ouyang Chung-Mei , Yang Kuen-Cheh
Published: May 2020

High prevalence of child underweight and stunting in high-altitude areas has often been reported. However, most previous studies on this topic were cross-sectional. Another critical concern is that using the World Health Organization (WHO) Child Growth Standards to evaluate child growth in high-altitude areas may lead to overestimations of underweight and stunting. Our study aimed to evaluate the long-term growth pattern of children (3 to 18 years) above the altitude of 3500 m in Ladakh, India. The participants’ body weight (BW), body height (BH), and body mass index (BMI) were measured annually according to the WHO Child Growth Standards for children under 5 years old and the WHO reference data for children aged 5 to 19 years. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to estimate the means and z-scores of BW, BH, and BMI at different ages. A total of 401 children were enrolled from 2012 to 2018. Their mean z-scores of BW, BH, and BMI were −1.47, −1.44, and −0.85 in 2012 and increased to −0.74, −0.92, and −0.63 in 2018. This population’s specific growth curve was also depicted, which generally fell below the 85th percentile of the WHO standards. This is the first cohort study about long-term child growth patterns in a high-altitude area. The detailed underlying mechanisms of our findings need future research on more representative data of high-altitude populations.
Experimental Studies on the Centrifugal MQL-CCA Method of Applying Coolant during the Internal Cylindrical Grinding Process
Authors: Nadolny Krzysztof , Kieraś Seweryn
Published: May 2020

This paper presents the results of experimental research concerning the possibility of supporting the cooling function during internal cylindrical grinding using the minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) method by additional delivery of a compressed cooled air (CCL) stream. The article presents a description of a hybrid method of cooling and lubrication of the grinding zone integrating centrifugal (through a grinding wheel) lubrication with the minimum quantity of lubricant and cooling with a compressed cooled air stream generated by a cold air gun (CAG). The methodology and results of experimental studies are also presented in detail, with the aim of determining the influence of the application of the hybrid method of cooling and lubrication of the machining zone on the course and results of the internal cylindrical grinding process of 100Cr6 steel in comparison with other methods of cooling and lubrication, as well as compared with dry grinding. The research results obtained using the described hybrid method of cooling and lubrication of the grinding zone are related to the results obtained under the conditions of centrifugal MQL method, cooling with a stream of CCA, cooling and lubrication with a stream of oil-in-water emulsion delivered using the flood method, and dry grinding. The efficiency of the grinding process is evaluated (based on the average grinding power Pav, grinding wheel volumetric wear Vs, material removal Vw, and grinding ratio G), along with the thermal conditions of the process (based on the analysis of thermograms recorded by infrared thermal imaging method), the textures of machined surfaces (based on microtopography measured by contact profilometry), the state of residual stress in the surface layers of workpieces (determined by X-ray diffraction method), and the state of the grinding wheels’ active surfaces after grinding (based on microtopography measured by laser triangulation and images recorded with a digital measuring microscope). The obtained results of the analyses show that the application of the hybrid method allows for the longest wheel life among the five compared grinding methods, which is about 2.7 times the life of grinding wheels working under the flood cooling and centrifugal MQL methods, and as much as 8 times the life of grinding wheels working under the conditions of CCA only and dry grinding.
Statistical Size Effect in Fatigue Properties for Mini-Specimens
Authors: Tomaszewski Tomasz
Published: May 2020

The study verifies the sensitivity of selected construction materials (S235JR structural steel and 1.4301 stainless steel) to the statistical size effect. The P–S–N curves were determined experimentally under high-cycle fatigue conditions for two specimen sizes (mini-specimen and standard specimen). The results were analyzed using a probabilistic model of the three-parameter Weibull cumulative distribution function. The analysis included the evaluation of the technological process effects on the results based on the material microstructure near the surface layer and the macro-fractography. The differences in the susceptibility to the size effect validated the applicability of the test method to mini-specimen and showed different populations of the distribution of critical material defects.
Influence of Particle Size on Toughening Mechanisms of Layered Silicates in CFRP
Authors: Hutschreuther Julia , Kunz Raphael , Breu Josef , Altstädt Volker
Published: May 2020

Carbon-fiber-reinforced epoxies are frequently used for lightweight applications that require high mechanical properties. Still, there is potential regarding the improvement of the interlaminar-fracture toughness. As matrix toughening with nanoparticles is one possibility, in this study two different layered silicates are used to reinforce carbon fiber composites. The first type is a synthetical K-Hectorite (K-Hect) with outstanding lateral extension (6 µm) that has shown high toughening ability in resins in previous work. The other is a commercial montmorillonite (MMT) with a smaller size (400 nm). The aim of this study is to show the influence of the particles on mode I and mode II fracture toughness, especially the influence of particle size. Therefore, double-cantilever-beam tests and end-notched-flexure tests were carried out. Additionally, the fracture mechanisms were investigated via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It is concluded, that the larger Hectorite particles are beneficial for mode I fracture behavior because of enhanced toughening mechanisms. One the other hand, the mode II energy dissipation rate is increased by the smaller montmorillonite particles due to sufficient interaction with the formation of hackling structures.
Chitosan Oligosaccharide Fluorinated Derivative Control Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) Disease Based on the Multi-Efficacy Strategy
Authors: Fan Zhaoqian , Qin Yukun , Liu Song , Xing Ronge , Yu Huahua , Li Pengcheng
Published: May 2020

Plant root-knot nematode disease is a great agricultural problem and commercially available nematicides have the disadvantages of high toxicity and limited usage; thus, it is urgent to develop new nematicides derived from nature substances. In this study, a novel fluorinated derivative was synthesized by modifying chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) using the strategy of multiple functions. The derivatives were characterized by FTIR, NMR, elemental analysis, and TG/DTG. The activity assays show that the derivatives can effectively kill the second instar larvae of Meloidogyne incognita in vitro, among them, chitosan-thiadiazole-trifluorobutene (COSSZFB) perform high eggs hatching inhibitory activity. The derivatives can regulate plant growth (photosynthetic pigment), improve immunity (chitinase and β-1,3-glucanase), and show low cytotoxicity and phytotoxicity. According to the multi-functional activity, the derivatives exhibit a good control effect on plant root-knot nematode disease in vivo. The results demonstrate that the COS derivatives (especially fluorinated derivative) perform multiple activities and show the potential to be further evaluated as nematicides.
Direct Write of 3D Nanoscale Mesh Objects with Platinum Precursor via Focused Helium Ion Beam Induced Deposition
Authors: Belianinov Alex , Burch Matthew J. , Ievlev Anton , Kim Songkil , Stanford Michael G. , Mahady Kyle , Lewis Brett B. , Fowlkes Jason D. , Rack Philip D. , Ovchinnikova Olga S.
Published: May 2020

The next generation optical, electronic, biological, and sensing devices as well as platforms will inevitably extend their architecture into the 3rd dimension to enhance functionality. In focused ion beam induced deposition (FIBID), a helium gas field ion source can be used with an organometallic precursor gas to fabricate nanoscale structures in 3D with high-precision and smaller critical dimensions than focused electron beam induced deposition (FEBID), traditional liquid metal source FIBID, or other additive manufacturing technology. In this work, we report the effect of beam current, dwell time, and pixel pitch on the resultant segment and angle growth for nanoscale 3D mesh objects. We note subtle beam heating effects, which impact the segment angle and the feature size. Additionally, we investigate the competition of material deposition and sputtering during the 3D FIBID process, with helium ion microscopy experiments and Monte Carlo simulations. Our results show complex 3D mesh structures measuring ~300 nm in the largest dimension, with individual features as small as 16 nm at full width half maximum (FWHM). These assemblies can be completed in minutes, with the underlying fabrication technology compatible with existing lithographic techniques, suggesting a higher-throughput pathway to integrating FIBID with established nanofabrication techniques.
Ras and Wnt Interaction Contribute in Prostate Cancer Bone Metastasis
Authors: Lin Shian-Ren , Mokgautsi Ntlotlang , Liu Yen-Nien
Published: May 2020

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most prevalent and malignant cancer types in men, which causes more than three-hundred thousand cancer death each year. At late stage of PCa progression, bone marrow is the most often metastatic site that constitutes almost 70% of metastatic cases of the PCa population. However, the characteristic for the osteo-philic property of PCa is still puzzling. Recent studies reported that the Wnt and Ras signaling pathways are pivotal in bone metastasis and that take parts in different cytological changes, but their crosstalk is not well studied. In this review, we focused on interactions between the Wnt and Ras signaling pathways during each stage of bone metastasis and present the fate of those interactions. This review contributes insights that can guide other researchers by unveiling more details with regard to bone metastasis and might also help in finding potential therapeutic regimens for preventing PCa bone metastasis.
NMR-Based Chemical Profiling, Isolation and Evaluation of the Cytotoxic Potential of the Diterpenoid Siderol from Cultivated Sideritis euboea Heldr.
Authors: Tomou Ekaterina-Michaela , Chatziathanasiadou Maria V. , Chatzopoulou Paschalina , Tzakos Andreas G. , Skaltsa Helen
Published: May 2020

Diterpenes are characteristic compounds from the genus Sideritis L., possessing an array of biological activities. Siderol is the main constituent of the ent-kaurene diterpenes in Sideritis species. In order to isolate the specific compound and evaluate for the first time its cytotoxic activity, we explored the dichloromethane extract of cultivated Sideritis euboea Heldr. To track the specific natural bioactive agent, we applied NMR spectroscopy to the crude plant extract, since NMR can serve as a powerful and rapid tool both to navigate the targeted isolation process of bioactive constituents, and to also reveal the identity of bioactive components. Along these lines, from the rapid 1D 1H NMR spectrum of the total crude plant extract, we were able to determine the characteristic proton NMR signals of siderol. Furthermore, with the same NMR spectrum, we were able to categorize several secondary metabolites into chemical groups as a control of the isolation process. Therefore, this non-polar extract was explored, for the first time, revealing eleven compounds—one fatty acid ester; 2-(p-hydroxyphenyl)ethylstearate (1), three phytosterols; β-sitosterol (2), stigmasterol (3), and campesterol (4); one triterpenoid; ursolic acid (5), four diterpenoids; siderol (6), eubol (7), eubotriol (8), 7-epicandicandiol (9) and two flavonoids; xanthomicrol (10) and penduletin (11). The main isolated constituent was siderol. The antiproliferative potential of siderol was evaluated, using the MTT (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide) assay, on three human cancer cell lines DLD1, HeLa, and A549, where the IC50 values were estimated at 26.4 ± 3.7, 44.7 ± 7.2, and 46.0 ± 4.9 μΜ, respectively. The most potent activity was recorded in the human colon cancer cell line DLD1, where siderol exhibited the lowest IC50. Our study unveiled the beneficial potential of siderol as a remarkable cytotoxic agent and the significant contribution of NMR spectroscopy towards the isolation and identification of this potent anticancer agent.
Selection of Optimal Operating Conditions for Extraction of Myrtus Communis L. Essential Oil by the Steam Distillation Method
Authors: Kaya Durmuş Alpaslan , Ghica Mihaela Violeta , Dănilă Elena , Öztürk Şevket , Türkmen Musa , Albu Kaya Mădălina Georgiana , Dinu-Pîrvu Cristina-Elena
Published: May 2020

Myrtus communis L. is one of the important aromatic and medicinal species from the Mediterranean area. It is used in various fields such as culinary, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, therapeutic, and industrial applications. Thus, a Box–Wilson experimental plan was used in this study to select the optimal operating conditions in order to obtain high volumes of essential oils. The factorial design method was applied to evaluate at an industrial scale the effect of major process variables on the essential oil extraction from Myrtus communis L. herbs by the steam distillation method. The input variables considered as significant operating conditions were: X1—boiler occupancy rate (boilers were filled to 50%, 75%, and 100%), X2—distillation duration (distillation was continued 60, 75, and 90 min), and X3—particle size (herbs were cut in sizes of 10, 20, and 30 mm via guillotine). The dependent variable selected, coded as Y, was the essential oil volume obtained (mL). The steps of the classical statistical experimental design technique were complemented with the Taguchi method to improve the extraction efficacy of essential oil from Myrtus communis L., and the optimum parameter conditions were selected: boiler occupancy rate 100%, distillation duration 75 min, and particle size 20 mm. Following the optimum parameters, the GC-MS assay revealed for the Myrtus communis L. essential oil two predominant components, α-pinene—33.14% and eucalyptol—55.09%.
Structural Basis for Broad Substrate Selectivity of Alcohol Dehydrogenase YjgB from Escherichia coli
Authors: Nguyen Giang Thu , Kim Yeon-Gil , Ahn Jae-Woo , Chang Jeong Ho
Published: May 2020

In metabolic engineering and synthetic biology fields, there have been efforts to produce variable bioalcohol fuels, such as isobutanol and 2-phenylethanol, in order to meet industrial demands. YjgB is an aldehyde dehydrogenase from Escherichia coli that shows nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP)-dependent broad selectivity for aldehyde derivatives with an aromatic ring or small aliphatic chain. This could contribute to the design of industrial synthetic pathways. We determined the crystal structures of YjgB for both its apo-form and NADP-complexed form at resolutions of 1.55 and 2.00 Å, respectively, in order to understand the mechanism of broad substrate selectivity. The hydrophobic pocket of the active site and the nicotinamide ring of NADP(H) are both involved in conferring its broad specificity toward aldehyde substrates. In addition, based on docking-simulation data, we inferred that π–π stacking between substrates and aromatic side chains might play a crucial role in recognizing substrates. Our structural analysis of YjgB might provide insights into establishing frameworks to understand its broad substrate specificity and develop engineered enzymes for industrial biofuel synthesis.
Application of High-Pressure Processing to Assure the Storage Stability of Unfiltered Lager Beer
Authors: Štulíková Kateřina , Bulíř Tomáš , Nešpor Jakub , Jelínek Lukáš , Karabín Marcel , Dostálek Pavel
Published: May 2020

Due to the increasing popularity of unfiltered beer, new methods for its preservation are needed. High-pressure processing (HPP) was applied as a final treatment of packed beer in order to assure storage stability and to retain the desired product quality. Pressures of 250 MPa and 550 MPa for 5 min were used to process unfiltered lager beers. The impact of pressure on basic analytical characteristics was evaluated, and foam stability, the content of carbonyl compounds and sensory properties were monitored during two months of storage. Most of the basic analytical parameters remained unaffected after pressure treatment, and a beneficial effect on foam stability was demonstrated. Changes in the concentration of staling aldehydes were observed during storage. Some features of the sensory profile were affected by HPP as well as by the time of storage. Our study evaluated the suitability of HPP as a novel method for shelf-life extension of unfiltered lager beer.
Nutrient and Sensory Metabolites Profiling of Averrhoa Carambola L. (Starfruit) in the Context of Its Origin and Ripening Stage by GC/MS and Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Ramadan Nehal S. , Wessjohann Ludger A. , Mocan Andrei , C Vodnar Dan , H. El-Sayed Nabil , A. El-Toumy Sayed , Abdou Mohamed Doha , Abdel Aziz Zeinab , Ehrlich Anja , A. Farag Mohamed
Published: May 2020

Averrhoa carambola L. is a tropical tree with edible fruit that grows at different climatic conditions. Despite its nutritive value and reported health benefits, it is a controversial fruit owing to its rich oxalate content. The present study aimed at investigating aroma and nutrient primary metabolites distribution in A. carambola fruits grown in Indonesia, Malaysia (its endemic origin) versus Egypt, and at different ripening stages. Two techniques were employed to assess volatile and non-volatile metabolites including headspace solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME) joined with gas chromatography coupled with mass-spectrometry (GC-MS) and GC-MS post silylation, respectively. Twenty-four volatiles were detected, with esters amounting for the major class of volatiles in Egyptian fruit at ca. 66%, with methyl caproate as the major component, distinguishing it from other origins. In contrast, aldehydes predominated tropically grown fruits with the ether myristicin found exclusively in these. Primary metabolites profiling led to the identification of 117 metabolites viz. sugars, polyols and organic acids. Fructose (38–48%) and glucose (21–25%) predominated sugar compositions in ripe fruits, whereas sorbitol was the major sugar alcohol (2.4–10.5%) in ripe fruits as well. Oxalic acid, an anti-nutrient with potential health risks, was the major organic acid detected in all the studied fruits (1.7–2.7%), except the Malaysian one (0.07%). It increases upon fruit ripening, including considerable amounts of volatile oxalate esters detected via SPME, and which must not be omitted in total oxalate determinations for safety assessments.
Polish Propolis—Chemical Composition and Biological Effects in Tongue Cancer Cells and Macrophages
Authors: Wezgowiec Joanna , Wieczynska Anna , Wieckiewicz Wlodzimierz , Kulbacka Julita , Saczko Jolanta , Pachura Natalia , Wieckiewicz Mieszko , Gancarz Roman , Wilk Kazimiera A.
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study was to compare the chemical composition and biological properties of Polish propolis. Ethanol, ethanol-hexane, hexane and hexane-ethanol extracts of propolis from three different regions of Poland were prepared. On the basis of the evaluation of their chemical composition as well as the extraction yield and free radical scavenging activity, the ethanol and hexane-ethanol extractions were proposed as the most effective methods. Subsequently, the biological properties of the extracts were evaluated to investigate the selectivity of an anticancer effect on tongue cancer cells in comparison to normal gingival fibroblasts. The obtained products demonstrated anticancer activity against tongue cancer cells. Additionally, when the lowest extract concentration (100 µg/mL) was applied, they were not cytotoxic to gingival fibroblasts. Finally, a possible anti-inflammatory potential of the prepared products was revealed, as reduced mitochondrial activity and proliferation of macrophages exposed to the extracts were observed. The results obtained indicate a potential of Polish propolis as a natural product with cancer-selective toxicity and anti-inflammatory effect. However, further studies are still needed to thoroughly explain the molecular mechanisms of its action and to obtain the promising health benefits of this versatile natural product.
Impact of Meal Timing and Chronotype on Food Reward and Appetite Control in Young Adults
Authors: Beaulieu Kristine , Oustric Pauline , Alkahtani Shaea , Alhussain Maha , Pedersen Hanne , Quist Jonas Salling , Færch Kristine , Finlayson Graham
Published: May 2020

Early meal timing and chronotype are associated with lower BMI, but their impact on appetite is poorly understood. We examined the impact of meal timing and chronotype on appetite and food reward. Forty-four adults were divided into early (EC; Morningness–Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) score = 55 ± 5) or late chronotype (LC; MEQ score = 40 ± 6) and assessed for body mass index, habitual energy intake (EI; three-day online dietary record) and eating behavior traits from the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire (TFEQ). Participants attended the laboratory after ≥3 h fast on two occasions for early (AM; 8–10 a.m.) and late (PM; 4–6 p.m.) counterbalanced testing sessions in a 2 × 2 design. Appetite ratings and food reward (validated diurnal Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire) were measured in response to a standardized test meal. LC was associated with higher BMI (p = 0.01), but not with EI or TFEQ. The composite appetite score was lower in AM than PM (MΔ= −5 (95% CI −10, −0.2) mm, p = 0.040). Perceived test meal fillingness was higher in AM than PM and EC compared to LC (p ≤ 0.038). Liking and wanting high-fat food were lower in AM than PM (p ≤ 0.004). The late chronotype was associated with greater desire for high-fat food (p = 0.006). To conclude, early meal timing and early chronotype are independently associated with smaller appetite and lower desire for high-fat food.
Biopolymer-Based Hybrids as Effective Admixtures for Cement Composites
Authors: Ślosarczyk Agnieszka , Klapiszewska Izabela , Jędrzejczak Patryk , Klapiszewski Łukasz , Jesionowski Teofil
Published: May 2020

In the framework of this publication, silica-lignin hybrid materials were designed, obtained, characterized and then used as admixtures for cement composites. High-energy mechanical grinding of individual components was used to produce the systems that allowed ensuring adequate homogeneity of the final products. As a result of the analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, it has been confirmed that weak physical interactions occur between the components. This allowed classifying the resulting systems as I class hybrid materials. In addition, the efficiency of obtaining final products was also inferred on the basis of obtained porous structure parameters and colorimetric data. The achieved bio-admixture with different weight ratios of silica and lignin was added to cement pastes in the amount ranging from 0.5 to 1 wt.%. The study showed that increasing the ratio of lignin in the admixture from 0.15 to 1 wt.% had a positive effect on the rheological properties of the pastes, while the mechanical properties of the composite were deteriorated. In turn, a higher amount of silica in the admixture acted in reverse. The most favorable results were obtained for a silica-lignin bio-admixture with a weight ratio of components equal to 5:1 wt./wt. A significant increase in compressive strength was gained at satisfactory plasticity of the paste.
Synthesis of Polylactic Acid Initiated through Biobased Antioxidants: Towards Intrinsically Active Food Packaging
Authors: Ortenzi Marco Aldo , Gazzotti Stefano , Marcos Begonya , Antenucci Stefano , Camazzola Stefano , Piergiovanni Luciano , Farina Hermes , Di Silvestro Giuseppe , Verotta Luisella
Published: May 2020

Polylactide (PLA)-based polymers, functionalized with biobased antioxidants, were synthesized, to develop an intrinsically active, biobased and potentially biodegradable material for food packaging applications. To achieve this result, phenolic antioxidants were exploited as initiators in the ring opening polymerization of l-lactide. The molecular weight, thermal properties and in vitro radical scavenging activity of the polymers obtained were compared with the ones of a PLA Natureworks 4043D, commonly used for flexible food packaging applications. The most promising synthesized polymer, bearing vanillyl alcohol as initiator (PLA-VA), was evaluated for active food packaging applications. Packaging with PLA-VA films reduced color and fat oxidation of salami during its shelf life.
Characterization of Background Temperature Dynamics of a Multitemporal Satellite Scene through Data Assimilation for Wildfire Detection
Authors: Udahemuka Gustave , van Wyk Barend J. , Hamam Yskandar
Published: May 2020

Detection of an active fire in an image scene relies on an accurate estimation of the background temperature of the scene, which must be compared to the observed temperature, to decide on the presence of fire. The expected background temperature of a pixel is commonly derived based on spatial-contextual information that can overestimate the background temperature of a fire pixel and therefore results in the omission of a fire event. This paper proposes a method that assimilates brightness temperatures acquired from the Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO) sensor MSG-SEVIRI into a Diurnal Temperature Cycle (DTC) model. The expected brightness temperatures are observational forecasts derived using the ensemble forecasting approach. The threshold on the difference between the observed and expected temperatures is derived under a Constant False Alarm Rate (CFAR) framework. The detection results are assessed against a reference dataset comprised of MODIS MOD14/MYD14 and EUMETSAT FIR products, and the performance is presented in terms of user’s and producer’s accuracies, and Precision-Recall and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) graphs. The method has a high detection rate when the data assimilation is implemented with an Ensemble Kalman Filter (EnKF) and a Sampling Importance Resampling (SIR) particle filter, while the weak-constraint Four-Dimensional Variational Assimilation (4D-Var) has comparatively lower detection and false alarm rates according to the reference dataset. Consideration of the diurnal variation in the background temperature enables the proposed method to detect even low-power fires.
Smart Metering Systems Optimization for Non-Technical Losses Reduction and Consumption Recording Operation Improvement in Electricity Sector
Authors: Vlasa Ilie , Gligor Adrian , Dumitru Cristian-Dragos , Iantovics Laszlo Barna
Published: May 2020

One of the keys of enhancing the quality of electric power supply resides in the accuracy of the consumption metering. Nowadays development of the sensors, devices and systems for electricity metering offers the basis for this service. Nevertheless, this achievement in many situations is altered such that appropriate measures must be adopted even if already significant costs have been registered. In this paper is proposed and discussed an optimal solution based on the identification and minimizing the measurement errors for increasing the electricity readings accuracy and lowering the electricity losses and related costs. In this regard, a mathematical model was developed and a particular algorithm for the mentioned problem is proposed and tested in the case of a power distribution company where an enhancement on average of the own technological consumption with 4% was recorded.
Performance Evaluations of PC5-based Cellular-V2X Mode 4 for Feasibility Analysis of Driver Assistance Systems with Crash Warning
Authors: Hirai Takeshi , Murase Tutomu
Published: May 2020

This paper presents the communication performance of PC5-based Cellular-Vehicle-to-Everything mode 4 (called mode 4) to measure the feasibility of a Crash Warning System (called CWS). The CWS requires nodes (e.g., cars or pedestrians) to update its location information ten times per second. This requirement provides us with a channel congestion problem. To investigate feasibility in terms of channel congestion, we evaluated communication performance in various crash scenarios by computer simulation. One of the serious scenarios is a crowded environment like large intersections. In the uniform node distribution, in which we evaluated average performance, mode 4 accommodated 26% fewer nodes than the expected one; in a realistic node distribution, mode 4 achieved 55% worse performance than the CWS requirements. Our results highlighted the need for performance improvements of mode 4 for CWS in practical uses.
Rapid Multi-Dimensional Impact Assessment of Floods
Authors: Pastor-Escuredo David , Torres Yolanda , Martínez-Torres María , Zufiria Pedro J.
Published: May 2020

Natural disasters affect hundreds of millions of people worldwide every year. The impact assessment of a disaster is key to improve the response and mitigate how a natural hazard turns into a social disaster. An actionable quantification of impact must be integratively multi-dimensional. We propose a rapid impact assessment framework that comprises detailed geographical and temporal landmarks as well as the potential socio-economic magnitude of the disaster based on heterogeneous data sources: Environment sensor data, social media, remote sensing, digital topography, and mobile phone data. As dynamics of floods greatly vary depending on their causes, the framework may support different phases of decision-making during the disaster management cycle. To evaluate its usability and scope, we explored four flooding cases with variable conditions. The results show that social media proxies provide a robust identification with daily granularity even when rainfall detectors fail. The detection also provides information of the magnitude of the flood, which is potentially useful for planning. Network analysis was applied to the social media to extract patterns of social effects after the flood. This analysis showed significant variability in the obtained proxies, which encourages the scaling of schemes to comparatively characterize patterns across many floods with different contexts and cultural factors. This framework is presented as a module of a larger data-driven system designed to be the basis for responsive and more resilient systems in urban and rural areas. The impact-driven approach presented may facilitate public–private collaboration and data sharing by providing real-time evidence with aggregated data to support the requests of private data with higher granularity, which is the current most important limitation in implementing fully data-driven systems for disaster response from both local and international actors.
Capturing Waste or Capturing Innovation? Comparing Self-Organising Potentials of Surplus Food Redistribution Initiatives to Prevent Food Waste
Authors: Spring Charlotte A. , Biddulph Robin
Published: May 2020

The context for this article is the rapid international growth of (surplus) food redistribution initiatives. These are frequently reliant on networks of volunteer labour, often coordinated by digital means. Movements with these characteristics are increasingly viewed by researchers, policymakers and practitioners as cases of self-organisation. The article explores the nature and extent of self-organisation in food redistribution initiatives. Two contrasting UK initiatives were studied using ethnographic methods during a period of rapid expansion. The concept of self-organisation was operationalised using three dimensions—autonomy, expansion and governance. One initiative established food banks in close cooperation with corporate food actors. Its franchise charity model involved standardised safety protocols and significant centralised control. The other initiative deliberately pursued autonomy, rapid recruitment and de-centralised governance; nevertheless, collaboration with industry actors and a degree of centralised control became a (contested) part of the approach. We highlight the interplay of organisational agency and institutional structures affecting the self-organisation of surplus food redistribution, including ways in which movement dynamism can involve capture by dominant interests but also the seeds of transformative practices that challenge root causes of food waste, particularly food’s commodification. Our analysis provides a way to compare the potentials of food charity vs mutual aid in effecting systemic change.
How Should Green Messages Be Framed: Single or Double?
Authors: Chen Arthur Cheng-Hsui , Wu Hsiu-Hui
Published: May 2020

Researchers and marketers have been showing more interest in the areas of green product attributes. They found that consumers usually associate low quality with green products. Little is known about how to design a green message and how to present product attributes in the advertisement. The objective of this study is to examine the different impacts of message content (single vs. double message) and message order (green message presented first vs. later) on green brand attitude in green advertisement, and its moderating effects by its central and peripheral attributes. Two 2 × 2 experimental between-subjects designs were utilized to test the hypotheses. The results of Study 1 indicate that after consumers watched the double-message advertisement, they formed a significantly more positive green brand attitude toward the product compared to watching a single-message advertisement. The product attributes demonstrated their moderating effects on the above result. The central attribute expanded the difference between the double message and single message, but the peripheral attribute diluted the double-message effect. Study 2 examined the order effect in the double-message advertisement, and we found that presenting the green message first instead of later was the most effective method to persuade consumers. However, this effect was only significant when the green attribute of the product is the central attribute. The peripheral attribute would decrease the order effect in the double-message format. Implications and recommendations for future research are provided at the end of this paper.
Does Corporate Governance Affect the Quality of Integrated Reporting?
Authors: Cooray Thilini , Gunarathne A. D. Nuwan , Senaratne Samanthi
Published: May 2020

This study examines how governance mechanisms affect the quality of integrated reporting (IR), which is fast emerging both as a tool to help firms understand their value creation process and to communicate effectively with external stakeholders. This study first developed an index to assess the quality of integrated reports. Subsequently, 132 integrated reports of Sri Lankan public listed companies selected over a three-year period were content analysed. The hypotheses formulated on the relationship between corporate governance and the quality of IR based on the agency theory were analysed using multivariate linear regression and panel regression. The results show that there is limited support from the corporate governance system for providing quality information to stakeholders on the value creation process through IR, except for board size and the availability of a separate risk management committee. This is the result of the heavy emphasis of corporate governance requirements and the resulting mechanisms of Sri Lankan companies on mandatory corporate reporting requirements compared to a voluntary reporting model such as IR. Since many corporate governance aspects are meant to fulfill mandatory reporting requirements, the results imply that the directors have given limited attention to providing quality information through voluntary disclosure practices such as IR, although they use resources to prepare integrated reports.
An Optimal Preventive Maintenance Policy for a Solar Photovoltaic System
Authors: Baklouti Amir , Mifdal Lahcen , Dellagi Sofiene , Chelbi Anis
Published: May 2020

In this paper, we develop a preventive maintenance (PM) strategy for a solar photovoltaic system composed of solar panels functioning as a series system. The photovoltaic system is considered in a failed state whenever its efficiency drops below a predefined threshold or any electrical wiring element is damaged. In such a situation of failure, a minimal repair is performed. The proposed PM strategy suggests systematically replacing n panels with their respective wiring system every time units T over a finite operating time span H. The panels to be preventively replaced are selected by the maintenance agent after an on-site overall assessment of all panels, making sure every time not to replace panels previously replaced during a given replacement cycle of all panels of the system. An analytical model is proposed in order to simultaneously determine the optimal PM period, T, and the optimal number of solar panels, n, to be replaced at each PM. This is done by modeling and minimizing the expected total maintenance cost over the finite operating time horizon H. A numerical example is presented to illustrate the use of the proposed modelling approach and to discuss the obtained results. The latter provide the optimal solutions (T*, n*) for different combinations of input parameters. They also show the economic relevance of the proposed PM strategy through estimation of the economic gain when comparing the situations with and without preventive maintenance.
Incorporation of the Intangibles into the Spanish Start-Ups by Activity Sector and Region. Improving Their Economic Sustainability
Authors: García-Gallo María Dolores , Jiménez-Naharro Félix , Torres-García Miguel , Giesecke Susan L. , Guadix-Martín José
Published: May 2020

Nowadays, start-ups, assuming increasing importance, have the possibility to include intangible knowledge as another resource on which they can carry out planning exercises, impact studies, evaluation and monitoring, protection, accumulation and exploitation. The study carried out in this paper allows us to analyze the influence that intangible knowledge has on the financial status of a start-up and, therefore, on its economic sustainability. This enables start-ups to present a good image, become more transparent, have more opportunities, reduce uncertainty, improve sustainability, etc. Moreover, the study presents a descriptive analysis of intangibles according to regions and activity sectors. An analysis of variance was carried out, to see if there is a relationship between the investment in intangible assets and the activity sector and/or regions to which the company belongs. The study concludes that, among all sectors, the differences in the incorporation of intangible assets into financial statements are most recognized in tourism, which may be a key factor for the sustainability of this sector, especially in periods of economic crisis, such as the one Europe and the planet are currently facing.