bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure and Corrosion Resistance of Zn-Al Diffusion Layer on 45 Steel Aided by Mechanical Energy
Authors: Tong Jianbin , Liang Yi , Wei Shicheng , Su Hongyi , Wang Bo , Ren Yuzhong , Zhou Yunlong , Sheng Zhongqi
Published: September 2019

In harsh environments, the corrosion damage of steel structures and equipment is a serious threat to the operational safety of service. In this paper, a Zn-Al diffusion layer was fabricated on 45 steel by the Mechanical Energy Aided Diffusion Method (MEADM) at 450 °C. The microstructure and composition, the surface topography, and the electrochemical performance of the Zn-Al diffusion layer were analyzed before and after corrosion. The results show that the Zn-Al diffusion layer are composed of Al2O3 and Γ1 phase (Fe11Zn40) and δ1 phase (FeZn6.67, FeZn8.87, and FeZn10.98) Zn-Fe alloy. There is a transition zone with the thickness of about 5 μm at the interface between the Zn-Al diffusion layer and the substrate, and a carbon-rich layer exists in this zone. The full immersion test and electrochemical test show that the compact corrosion products produced by the initial corrosion of the Zn-Al diffusion layer will firmly bond to the Zn-Al diffusion layer surface and fill the crack, which plays a role in preventing corrosion of the corrosive medium and reducing the corrosion rate of the Zn-Al diffusion layer. The salt spray test reveals that the initial corrosion products of the Zn-Al diffusion layer are mainly ZnO and Zn5(OH)8Cl2H2O. New corrosion products such as ZnAl2O4, FeOCl appear at the middle corrosion stage. The corrosion product ZnAl2O4 disappears, and the corrosion products Zn(OH)2 and Al(OH)3 appear at the later corrosion stage.
Deformation and Fatigue Behaviour of A356-T7 Cast Aluminium Alloys Used in High Specific Power IC Engines
Authors: Natesan Elanghovan , Eriksson Stefan , Ahlström Johan , Persson Christer
Published: September 2019

The continuous drive towards higher specific power and lower displacement engines in recent years place increasingly higher loads on the internal combustion engine materials. This necessitates a more robust collection of reliable material data for computational fatigue life prediction to develop reliable engines and reduce developmental costs. Monotonic tensile testing and cyclic stress and strain-controlled testing of A356-T7 + 0.5 wt.% Cu cast aluminium alloys have been performed. The uniaxial tests were performed on polished test bars extracted from highly loaded areas of cast cylinder heads. The monotonic deformation tests indicate that the material has an elastic-plastic monotonic response with plastic hardening. The strain controlled uniaxial low cycle fatigue tests were run at multiple load levels to capture the cyclic deformation behaviour and the corresponding fatigue lives. The equivalent stress-controlled fatigue tests were performed to study the influence of the loading mode on the cyclic deformation and fatigue lives. The two types of tests exhibit similar fatigue lives and stress-strain responses indicating minimal influence of the mode of loading in fatigue testing of A356 + T7 alloys. The material exhibits a non-linear deformation behaviour with a mixed isotropic and kinematic hardening behaviour that saturates after the initial few cycles. There exists significant scatter in the tested replicas for both monotonic and cyclic loading.
The Distribution Function of a Probability Measure on a Linearly Ordered Topological Space
Authors: Gálvez-Rodríguez José Fulgencio , Sánchez-Granero Miguel Ángel
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we describe a theory of a cumulative distribution function on a space with an order from a probability measure defined in this space. This distribution function plays a similar role to that played in the classical case. Moreover, we define its pseudo-inverse and study its properties. Those properties will allow us to generate samples of a distribution and give us the chance to calculate integrals with respect to the related probability measure.
The Controversial History of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Authors: Cagnacci Angelo , Venier Martina
Published: September 2019

The history of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) started in the 1960s, with very high popularity in the 1990s. The first clinical trials on HRT and chronic postmenopausal conditions were started in the USA in the late 1990s. After the announcement of the first results of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) in 2002, which showed that HRT had more detrimental than beneficial effects, HRT use dropped. The negative results of the study received wide publicity, creating panic among some users and new guidance for doctors on prescribing HRT. The clear message from the media was that HRT had more risks than benefits for all women. In the following years, a reanalysis of the WHI trial was performed, and new studies showed that the use of HRT in younger women or in early postmenopausal women had a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, reducing coronary disease and all-cause mortality. Notwithstanding this, the public opinion on HRT has not changed yet, leading to important negative consequences for women’s health and quality of life.
Medical Management of Peyronie’s Disease: Review of the Clinical Evidence
Authors: Teloken Patrick , Katz Darren
Published: September 2019

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that causes abnormal healing of the tunica albuginea, causing penile curvature. It is difficult to treat and its management is continuing to evolve. Proposed non-surgical treatments have included oral, topical, intralesional, extracorporeal shockwave, and traction therapy. The study of Peyronie’s disease is made difficult by heterogeneity in the timing of presentation, severity and characteristics of deformity, and associated complaints. Moreover, meta-analyses of studies are difficult due to inconsistencies across study endpoints and the duration of treatments. This article reviews the current clinical evidence and guideline recommendations, with a focus on an improvement in penile curvature.
Prediction of Bake Hardening Behavior of Selected Advanced High Strength Automotive Steels and Hailstone Failure Discussion
Authors: Mihaliková Mária , Zgodavová Kristína , Bober Peter , Sütőová Andrea
Published: September 2019

The purpose of the present study is three-fold. Firstly, it attempts to describe the bake hardening (BH) behavior of selected interstitial free (IF) and dual phase (DP) steels. Secondly, it predicts the BH behavior of the IF DX 51D and DP 500 HCT 590X plates of steel, and thirdly studies material failure prevention in scholarly sources. The research is aimed at investigating the increasing steel strength during the BH of these two high-strength sheets of steel used for outer vehicle body parts. Samples of steel were pre-strained to 1%, 2%, and 5% and then baked at 140–220 °C for 10 to 30 min. The BH effect was determined from three factors: pre-strain, baking temperature, and baking time. Research has shown that increasing the yield strength by the BH effect is predictable. Therefore, the number of experiments could be reduced for the investigation of BH effect for other kinds of IF and DP steels. The literature study of the hailstone failure reveals that the knowledge of BH steels behavior helps to calculate the steel supplier´s failure mode effect analysis (FMEA) risk priority number.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Parameters Affecting One-Step Method for Quantitative Analysis of Fatty Acids in Meat
Authors: Agnew Michael P. , Craigie Cameron R. , Weralupitiya Gayani , Reis Marlon M. , Johnson Patricia L. , Reis Mariza G.
Published: September 2019

Despite various direct transmethylation methods having been published and applied to analysis of meat fatty acid (FA) composition, there are still conflicting ideas about the best method for overcoming all the difficulties posed by analysis of complex mixtures of FA in meat. This study performed a systematic investigation of factors affecting a one-step method for quantitative analysis of fatty acids in freeze-dried animal tissue. Approximately 280 reactions, selected using factorial design, were performed to investigate the effect of temperature, reaction time, acid concentration, solvent volume, sample weight and sample moisture. The reaction yield for different types of fatty acids, including saturated, unsaturated (cis, trans and conjugated) and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids was determined. The optimised condition for one-step transmethylation was attained with four millilitres 5% sulfuric acid in methanol (as acid catalyst), four millilitres toluene (as co-solvent), 300 mg of freeze-dried meat and incubation at 70 °C for 2 h, with interim mixing by inversion at 30, 60 and 90 min for 15 s. The optimised condition was applied to meat samples from different species, covering a broad range of fat content and offers a simplified and reliable method for analysis of fatty acids from meat samples.
Antifungal Effects and Potential Mechanism of Essential Oils on Collelotrichum gloeosporioides In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Wang Dan , Zhang Jing , Jia Xiaoman , Xin Li , Zhai Hao
Published: September 2019

The development of natural essential oil as an alternative to synthetic chemicals in the control of postharvest decay is currently in the spotlight. In the present study, the efficacy of seven essential oils in suppressing Collelotrichum gloeosporioides identified from sweet cherry was evaluated in vitro and clove oil was proved to be the most promising inhibitor. Thus, the antifungal properties and potential mechanisms of clove oil in vitro and in vivo by fumigation and contact treatments were intensively investigated. For C. gloeosporioides, the minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of clove oil in air and contact phase were 80 and 300 μL/L in vitro testing, respectively. Based on the radial growth of C. gloeosporioides mycelium in medium, the fumgitoxic ability of essential oil was observed in a dose-dependent manner, which was not as dramatic as that under in vivo conditions. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy of C. gloeosporioides exposed to clove oil exhibited obviously deleterious morphological and ultrastructural alterations confirming the disruption of fungal cell wall and endomembrane system, which resulted in increasing in permeability and causing the loss of intracellular constituents. In future, essential oils, combined with nano-emulsification approaches, could be good candidates as safe and effective antifungal agents for fungal spoilage of fresh commodities.
A Label-Free Electrochemical Immunosensor for Detection of the Tumor Marker CA242 Based on Reduced Graphene Oxide-Gold-Palladium Nanocomposite
Authors: Du Xin , Zheng Xiaodi , Zhang Zhenhua , Wu Xiaofan , Sun Lei , Zhou Jun , Liu Min
Published: September 2019

As a tumor marker, carbohydrate antigen 24-2 (CA242) is a highly accurate and specific diagnostic indicator for monitoring pancreatic and colorectal cancers. The goal of this study was to create a novel label-free electrochemical immunosensor using a nanocomposite glassy carbon electrode for the detection of CA242. Graphene oxide (GO) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone were chosen as the dopants for the preparation of a high-performance reduced-GO-gold-palladium (rGO-Au-Pd) nanocomposite. RGO-Au-Pd was characterized using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy, revealing that the material exhibited superior electrochemical redox activity and electron transfer ability. The effects of the synthesis method, material concentration, reduction cycle, and pH were investigated to optimize the performance of the immunosensor. As a result of the catalytic activity and biocompatibility of rGO-Au-Pd, the prepared CA242 immunosensor displayed a wide linear range of detection from 0.001 U/mL to 10,000 U/mL with a detection limit of 1.54 × 10−3 U/mL and a sensitivity of 4.24 μA (log10CCA242)−1. More importantly, the immunosensor exhibited satisfactory reproducibility and selectivity when detected CA242 in PBS or human serum. The results of our study provide a platform for the development of novel bioassays for use in early cancer diagnosis and promote the application of biosensing technology in the medical field.
Vertically Aligned NiCo2O4 Nanosheet-Encapsulated Carbon Fibers as a Self-Supported Electrode for Superior Li+ Storage Performance
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Jiang Jintian , Yuan Yanyan , Jiang Qinglong , Yan Chao
Published: September 2019

Binary transition metal oxides (BTMOs) have been explored as promising candidates in rechargeable lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes due to their high specific capacity and environmental benignity. Herein, 2D ultrathin NiCo2O4 nanosheets vertically grown on a biomass-derived carbon fiber substrate (NCO NSs/BCFs) were obtained by a facile synthetic strategy. The BCF substrate has superior flexibility and mechanical strength and thus not only offers a good support to NCO NSs/BCFs composites, but also provides high-speed paths for electron transport. Furthermore, 2D NiCo2O4 nanosheets grown vertically present a large contact area between the electrode and the electrolyte, which shortens the ions/electrons transport distance. The nanosheets structure can effectively limit the volume change derived from Li+ insertion and extraction, thus improving the stability of the electrode material. Therefore, the synthesized self-supporting NCO NSs/BCFs electrode displays excellent electrochemical performance, such as a large reversible capacity of 1128 mA·h·g−1 after 80 cycles at a current density of 100 mA·g−1 and a good rate capability of 818.5 mA·h·g−1 at 1000 mA·g−1. Undoubtedly, the cheap biomass carbon source and facile synthesis strategy here described can be extended to other composite materials for high-performance energy-storage and conversion devices.
Generation of the Antioxidant Hydroxytyrosol from Tyrosol Present in Beer and Red Wine in a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Soldevila-Domenech Natalia , Boronat Anna , Mateus Julian , Diaz-Pellicer Patricia , Matilla Iris , Pérez-Otero Marta , Aldea-Perona Ana , de la Torre Rafael
Published: September 2019

Beer and wine contains the simple phenol tyrosol (TYR) which is endogenously converted into hydroxytyrosol (HT), one of the strongest dietary antioxidants, by CYP2A6 and CYP2D6 polymorphic enzymes. We investigated in humans the rate of this bioconversion after beer and red wine (RW) intake. In a single blind, randomized, crossover, controlled clinical trial (n = 20 healthy subjects), we evaluated TYR absorption and biotransformation into HT following a single dose of (i) RW, (ii) Indian pale ale beer (IPA), (iii) blonde beer, and (iv) non-alcoholic beer (free). Individuals were genotyped for CYP2A6 and CYP2D6, and a polygenic activity score (PAS) was derived. RW triggered the highest increase in total TYR recovered, followed by IPA, blonde, and free beers. Although the HT content in beer was minimal, an increase in HT production was observed in all beers following TYR in a dose-response manner, confirming TYR to HT biotransformation. Sex differences were identified in the rate of the conversion following RW. PAS scores correlated linearly with the recoveries of HT (HT:TYR ratios) after RW intake. In conclusion, after beer and RW consumption, TYR is absorbed and endogenously biotransformed into HT. This mechanism could be modulated by sex, genetics, and matrix components.
A Lowly Digestible-Starch Diet after Weaning Enhances Exogenous Glucose Oxidation Rate in Female, but Not in Male, Mice
Authors: Fernández-Calleja José M. S. , Bouwman Lianne M. S. , Swarts Hans J. M. , Billecke Nils , Oosting Annemarie , Keijer Jaap , van Schothorst Evert M.
Published: September 2019

Starches of low digestibility are associated with improved glucose metabolism. We hypothesise that a lowly digestible-starch diet (LDD) versus a highly digestible-starch diet (HDD) improves the capacity to oxidise starch, and that this is sex-dependent. Mice were fed a LDD or a HDD for 3 weeks directly after weaning. Body weight (BW), body composition (BC), and digestible energy intake (dEI) were determined weekly. At the end of the intervention period, whole-body energy expenditure (EE), respiratory exchange ratio (RER), hydrogen production, and the oxidation of an oral 13C-labelled starch bolus were measured by extended indirect calorimetry. Pancreatic amylase activity and total 13C hepatic enrichment were determined in females immediately before and 4 h after administration of the starch bolus. For both sexes, BW, BC, and basal EE and RER were not affected by the type of starch, but dEI and hydrogen production were increased by the LDD. Only in females, total carbohydrate oxidation and starch-derived glucose oxidation in response to the starch bolus were higher in LDD versus HDD mice; this was not accompanied by differences in amylase activity or hepatic partitioning of the 13C label. These results show that starch digestibility impacts glucose metabolism differently in females versus males.
Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy in Combination with Nystatin in the Treatment of Experimental Oral Candidiasis Induced by Candida albicans Resistant to Fluconazole
Authors: Janeth Rimachi Hidalgo Karem , Cabrini Carmello Juliana , Carolina Jordão Cláudia , Aboud Barbugli Paula , de Sousa Costa Carlos Alberto , Garcia de Oliveira Mima Ewerton , Pavarina Ana Claudia
Published: September 2019

Background: It has been demonstrated that azole-resistant strains of Candida albicans have a greater resistance to antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) when compared to their more susceptible counterparts. For this reason, the present study evaluated the efficacy of aPDT, together with nystatin (NYS), in the treatment of oral candidiasis in vivo. Methods: Mice were infected with fluconazole-resistant C. albicans (ATCC 96901). To perform the combined therapy, aPDT, mediated by Photodithazine (PDZ) and LED light, was used together with NYS. The efficacy of the treatments was evaluated by microbiological, macroscopic, histopathological and Confocal Scanning Laser Microscopy analyses of the lesions. The expression of p21 and p53, proteins associated with cell death, from the tongues of mice, was also performed. Results: The combined therapy reduced the fungal viability by around 2.6 log10 and decreased the oral lesions and the inflammatory reaction. Additionally, it stimulated the production of p53 and p21. Conclusions: The combined therapy is a promising alternative treatment for oral candidiasis induced by C. albicans resistant to fluconazole.
Using PSO Algorithm to Compensate Power Loss Due to the Aeroelastic Effect of the Wind Turbine Blade
Authors: Zhao Ying , Liao Caicai , Qin Zhiwen , Yang Ke
Published: September 2019

Power loss due to the aeroelastic effect of the blade is becoming an important problem of large-scale blade design. Prior work has already employed the pretwisting method to deal with this problem and obtained some good results at reference wind speed. The aim of this study was to compensate for the power loss for all of the wind speeds by using the pretwisting method. Therefore, we developed an aeroelastic coupling optimization model, which takes the pretwist angles along the blade as free variables, the maximum AEP (annual energy production) as the optimal object, and the smooth of the twist distribution as one of the constraint conditions. In this optimization model, a PSO (particle swarm optimization) algorithm is used and combined with the BEM-3DFEM (blade element momentum—three-dimensional finite element method) model. Then, the optimization model was compared with an iteration method, which was recently developed by another study and can well compensate the power loss at reference wind speed. By a design test, we found that the power loss can be reduced by pretwisting the origin blade, whether using the optimization model or the iteration method. Moreover, the optimization model has better ability than the iteration method to compensate the power loss with lower thrust coefficient while keeping the twist distribution smooth.
Acidification Assessment after Peat Bog Drainage in the Catalan Pyrenees (NE Iberia)
Authors: Catalán Alba , Antúnez Montserrat , Poch Rosa M.
Published: September 2019

The Pyrenean range (NE Iberian Peninsula) has some favourable lithological and climatic conditions (iron-rich parent materials and udic moisture regimes) for the formation of acid sulfate soils (ASS) that have not been reported on from the region until now. The analyses of a drained peat bog near València d’Àneu revealed a pH (1:2.5) of 3.7. We hypothesize that it contained sulfidic materials that were oxidized during drainage, which could have caused its acidification. The main goal of this study is to understand the characteristics and the potential acidity of these organic soils and the consequences that this could generate in the current environment. In order to do so, several profiles were described and sampled in the field for chemical and micromorphological analyses. The results show that the oxidation of the newly formed pyrite in the soil or pyrite contained in the Cambro–Ordovician parent material was responsible for the low pH and high electrical conductivity (EC). The soils still contain sulfidic materials at present, which could be oxidized in the future, with the consequent risk for water quality. The results will be useful to evaluate the risk of other peats in the Pyrenees becoming acid sulfate soils if drained.
Special Issue “International Conference of Spirituality in Healthcare. Creating Space for Spirituality in Healthcare,”—Trinity College Dublin 2017
Authors: Neenan Kathleen , Timmins Fiona , O. Boyle Colm , Whelan Jacqueline , Brady Vivienne , Muldowney Yvonne , McSherry Wilfred
Published: September 2019

This is an editorial of a Special Issue pertaining to the “International Conference of Spirituality in Healthcare. Creating a Space for Spirituality in Healthcare” Trinity College Dublin 2017. This was the third International Spirituality in Healthcare Conference hosted by Trinity College Dublin, with future annual conferences planned. This conference has provided a space to facilitate clinicians, healthcare practitioners and academics to present and debate current issues with this domain. This editorial summarises some of the papers that have been published arising from that conference.
Fault Detection and Diagnosis in Multi-Robot Systems: A Survey
Authors: Khalastchi Eliahu , Kalech Meir
Published: September 2019

The use of robots has increased significantly in the recent years; rapidly expending to numerous applications. These sophisticated machines are susceptible to different types of faults that might endanger the robot or its surroundings. These faults must be detected and diagnosed in time to allow continual operation. The field of Fault Detection and Diagnosis (FDD) has been studied for many years. This research has given birth to many approaches that are applicable to different types of physical machines. However, the domain of robotics poses unique requirements that challenge traditional FDD approaches. The study of FDD for robotics is relatively new; only few surveys were presented. These surveys have focused on the single robot scenario. To the best of our knowledge, there is no survey that focuses on FDD for Multi-Robot Systems (MRS). In this paper we set out to fill this gap. This paper provides detailed insights to the world of FDD for MRS. We first describe how different attributes of MRS pose different challenges for FDD. With respect to these challenges, we survey different FDD approaches applicable for MRS. We conclude with a description of research opportunities in this field. With these contributions it is the authors’ intention to provide detailed insights to the world of FDD for MRS.
Adaptive Binocular Fringe Dynamic Projection Method for High Dynamic Range Measurement
Authors: Yu Changzhi , Ji Fang , Xue Junpeng , Wang Yajun
Published: September 2019

Three-dimensional measurement with fringe projection sensor has been commonly researched. However, the measurement accuracy and efficiency of most fringe projection sensors are still seriously affected by image saturation and the non-linear effects of the projector. In order to solve the challenge, in conjunction with the advantages of stereo vision technology and fringe projection technology, an adaptive binocular fringe dynamic projection method is proposed. The proposed method can avoid image saturation by adaptively adjusting the projection intensity. Firstly, the flowchart of the proposed method is explained. Then, an adaptive optimal projection intensity method based on multi-threshold segmentation is introduced to adjust the projection illumination. Finally, the mapping relationship of binocular saturation point and projection point is established by binocular transformation and left camera–projector mapping. Experiments demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve higher accuracy for high dynamic range measurement.
Robust and Fast Scene Recognition in Robotics Through the Automatic Identification of Meaningful Images
Authors: Santos David , Lopez-Lopez Eric , Pardo Xosé M. , Iglesias Roberto , Barro Senén , Fdez-Vidal Xosé R.
Published: September 2019

Scene recognition is still a very important topic in many fields, and that is definitely the case in robotics. Nevertheless, this task is view-dependent, which implies the existence of preferable directions when recognizing a particular scene. Both in human and computer vision-based classification, this actually often turns out to be biased. In our case, instead of trying to improve the generalization capability for different view directions, we have opted for the development of a system capable of filtering out noisy or meaningless images while, on the contrary, retaining those views from which is likely feasible that the correct identification of the scene can be made. Our proposal works with a heuristic metric based on the detection of key points in 3D meshes (Harris 3D). This metric is later used to build a model that combines a Minimum Spanning Tree and a Support Vector Machine (SVM). We have performed an extensive number of experiments through which we have addressed (a) the search for efficient visual descriptors, (b) the analysis of the extent to which our heuristic metric resembles the human criteria for relevance and, finally, (c) the experimental validation of our complete proposal. In the experiments, we have used both a public image database and images collected at our research center.
Copper-to-Zinc Ratio Correlates with an Inflammatory Marker in Patients with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Emokpae Mathias Abiodun , Fatimehin Emmanuel Bamidele
Published: September 2019

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder of major health challenge in Nigeria. Micronutrients deficiencies often associated with the disorder may cause inflammation and abnormal metabolisms in the body. The copper-to-zinc ratio is a more important assessment than the concentrations of either of the metals in clinical practice. This study seeks to evaluate serum levels of c-reactive protein (CRP), copper, zinc and copper-to-zinc ratio and to correlate copper-to-zinc ratio with CRP in adult subjects with SCD. Serum copper, zinc, CRP and plasma fibrinogen were assayed in 100 confirmed SCD patients in steady clinical state and 100 age and sex matched subjects with normal haemoglobin. Serum copper and zinc were assayed by colorimetric method using reagents supplied by Centronic, Germany while CRP and fibrinogen were assayed using reagents supplied by Sigma (St. Louis, MO, USA) and Anogen (Ontario, Canada), respectively. The copper to zinc ratio was calculated from serum levels of copper and zinc. The measured parameters were compared between the groups using Students t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient was used to relate CRP with the other parameters. Serum copper, CRP, fibrinogen and copper-to-zinc ratio were significantly higher (p < 0.001) while zinc level was lower in SCD patients than controls. Serum CRP concentration correlated with copper (r = 0.10; p < 0.02), zinc (r = −0.199; p < 0.05) and Copper-to-zinc ratio (r = 0.312; p < 0.002) but the correlation between CRP and fibrinogen was not significant. Inflammatory condition may modulate copper and zinc homeostasis and copper-to-zinc ratio may be used as marker of nutritional deficiency and inflammation in SCD patients.
Effects of Severe Water Stress on Maize Growth Processes in the Field
Authors: Song Libing , Jin Jiming , He Jianqiang
Published: September 2019

In this study, we investigated the effects of water stress on the growth and yield of summer maize (Zea mays L.) over four phenological stages: Seedling, jointing, heading, and grain-filling. Water stress treatments were applied during each of these four stages in a water-controlled field in the Guanzhong Plain, China between 2013 and 2016. We found that severe water stress during the seedling stage had a greater effect on the growth and development of maize than stress applied during the other three stages. Water stress led to lower leaf area index (LAI) and biomass owing to reduced intercepted photosynthetically active radiation (IPAR) and radiation-use efficiency (RUE). These effects extended to the reproductive stage and eventually reduced the unit kernel weight and yield. In addition, the chlorophyll content in the leaf remained lower, even though irrigation was applied partially or fully after the seedling stage. Severe and prolonged water stress in maize plants during the seedling stage may damage the structure of the photosynthetic membrane, resulting in lower chlorophyll content, and therefore RUE, than those in the plants that did not experience water stress at the seedling stage. Maize plants with such damage did not show a meaningful recovery even when irrigation levels during the rest of the growth period were the same as those applied to the plants not subjected to water stress. The results of our field experiments suggest that an unrecoverable yield loss could occur if summer maize were exposed to severe and extended water stress events during the seedling stage.
Exploring Factors Affecting Car Sharing Use Intention in the Southeast-Asia Region: A Case Study in Java, Indonesia
Authors: Chun Yoon-Young , Matsumoto Mitsutaka , Tahara Kiyotaka , Chinen Kenichiro , Endo Hideki
Published: September 2019

This paper provides some insight into factors influencing the car sharing adoption and usage in Southeast-Asian developing countries like Indonesia, where car sharing is just emerging and so far, not effectively existent. This study uses an internet survey of 600 Indonesian respondents to examine how underlying factors, such as perceived benefits of car sharing related to convenience and cost-saving aspects, perceived risks and burdens of car ownership, and perceived values of car ownership as societal status can influence their intention to use car sharing. The results of the ordered logit models reveal that car sharing use intention is influenced by perceived benefits of car sharing and perceived values of car ownership as societal status. Among demographic attributes, income level has a positive effect on car sharing use intention. The implications and proper interpretations in the interplay among them can provide a useful guide to city transportation planners and business owners who attempt to promote car sharing schemes in the Southeast-Asian market like Indonesia.
Comparative Evaluation Model Framework for Cost-Optimal Evaluation of Prefabricated Lightweight System Envelopes in the Early Design Phase
Authors: Jausovec Marko , Sitar Metka
Published: September 2019

This paper proposes an extended comparative evaluation model framework (ECEMF) that highlights two objectives: (1) a specific economic evaluation method for the cost-optimisation of prefabricated lightweight system envelopes to achieve a greater value of the building, and (2) a comparative evaluation model framework usable by different profiles of stakeholders, when adopting the decision on the most optimal envelope type in the early design phase. Based on the proposed framework, the analysis was conducted for the case study building representing a small single-family house located in Slovenia. The methodology applied is based on the life cycle cost (LCC) including construction, operation, maintenance, and refurbishment costs, but excluding dismantling, disposal, and reuse, for the period of 50 years’ lifetime of the building which combines the Building Information Modelling (BIM) with Value for Money (VfM) assessment. To exploit the automated evaluation process in the computing environment, several tools were used, including Archicad for BIM in combination with Legep software for LCC. On one hand, the model confirms the assumption that the optimal value parameters of a building do not only depend on the typical costs related to high-performance buildings. On the other hand, from the stakeholders’ view, the model enables the choice of the optimal solution regarding the envelope type to be made in the early design phase. In this view, the model could function as an important decision tool, with a direct economic impact on the value.
The Emergence of Mobility Inequality in Greater Jakarta, Indonesia: A Socio-Spatial Analysis of Path Dependencies in Transport–Land Use Policies
Authors: Hidayati Isti , Yamu Claudia , Tan Wendy
Published: September 2019

Despite numerous studies suggesting a path-dependent relationship between transport–land use policies and urban structures, particularly on the emergence of car-oriented development, this connection has rarely been explained with spatial evidence. To address this gap, this paper investigated the historical and spatial urban transformation of Greater Jakarta from three different time periods to understand today’s extensive use of and dependence on private vehicles. This study applied a multi-method approach of (1) historical literature review, (2) computational analysis of the street network using space syntax, and (3) visual analysis of video recordings to allow for a comprehensive insight into the socio-spatial aspects of urbanization as a path-dependent course. The findings indicate that Jakarta’s pedestrian network has been diminishing over time against the well-connected vehicular network. Furthermore, the remaining potential for walking cannot be actualized due to walking inconveniences at the street level. This suggests mobility inequality, since access to citywide urban functions is highly dependent on the access to private vehicles. It also provides spatial evidence that previous policies have had a long-term impact on socio-spatial structures. This paper contributes not only scientific reference for transport and mobility studies in the Southeast Asia region, but also a practical reference for urban planners and policy-makers on how to achieve sustainable development goals and to provide equal access for all.
LCA/LCC Model for Evaluation of Pump Units in Water Distribution Systems
Authors: Jocanovic Mitar , Agarski Boris , Karanovic Velibor , Orosnjak Marko , Ilic Micunovic Milana , Ostojic Gordana , Stankovski Stevan
Published: September 2019

In this multidisciplinary research, an LCA/LCC model is developed for assessing the costs, energy consumption, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during the pump unit lifecycles in drinking water distribution systems (WDS). The presented methodology includes the pump, motor, and variable frequency drive monitoring as a system (pump unit), through their life-cycle stages: the manufacturing stage, the exploitation stage, and the disposal stage at the end of their life-cycle. The developed model also analyses other processes such as the maintenance, testing, and reconstruction of the pump unit. Demonstration of the presented methodology was performed using the pump unit of an operating WDS system in different scenarios, in order to illustrate the proper application of this model. The obtained results show that the application of pump units is justified in terms of energy consumption. The results also show that 93%–94% of the consumed energy and the LCC costs are related to the pump operating costs, while the rest are related to auxiliary operations. The findings show that various countries can have considerably different prices of electrical energy and different GHG emissions that depend on the source of electric energy. The implemented model incorporates some of the symmetries that are commonly found in the mathematical models of water distribution systems. Finally, the results of pump unit exploitation within the WDS have been used to show the impact of such plants on different levels of energy consumption, GHG emissions, and LCC production.
Application of the Analytic Hierarchy Process and Grey Relational Analysis for Vendor Selection of Spare Parts Planning Software
Authors: Weng Sung-Shun , Chen Kai-Ying , Li Chih-Yuan
Published: September 2019

The success of after-sales services fundamentally depends on the possibility of symmetry balancing needs, supply and customer satisfaction. Spare parts planning (SPP) software selection is an investment in balancing the symmetry of inventory control, which directly affects the success of after-sales services. This paper presents the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and grey relational analysis (GRA) as potential multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) methods for software selection. The application of these methods can be decreased by decision-makers’ subjectivity, which leads to consistency and symmetry in the weight values of the criteria. The criteria were evaluated solely based on system functions by business consultants with respect to the modularity of the software to meet various business requirements, distinguishing this paper from other papers that focus on the financial aspects of selecting software. The results suggest that the AHP and GRA are feasible methods for software selection that effectively integrate consultants’ experience to identify the suitable software and the most important function for adoption in real businesses. The findings of our data suggest that inventory optimization is the most important function of SPP software, as the demand forecasting function may be subjective. In conclusion, this paper represents a bridge between practitioners and researchers.
An Inactivated Influenza Virus Vaccine Approach to Targeting the Conserved Hemagglutinin Stalk and M2e Domains
Authors: Sun Weina , Zheng Allen , Miller Robert , Krammer Florian , Palese Peter
Published: September 2019

Universal influenza virus vaccine candidates that focus on the conserved hemagglutinin (HA) stalk domain and the extracellular domain of the matrix protein 2 (M2e) have been developed to increase the breadth of protection against multiple strains. In this study, we report a novel inactivated influenza virus vaccine approach that combines these two strategies. We inserted a human consensus M2e epitope into the immunodominant antigenic site (Ca2 site) of three different chimeric HAs (cHAs). Sequential immunization with inactivated viruses containing these modified cHAs substantially enhanced M2e antibody responses while simultaneously boosting stalk antibody responses. The combination of additional M2e antibodies with HA stalk antibodies resulted in superior antibody-mediated protection in mice against challenge viruses expressing homologous or heterosubtypic hemagglutinin and neuraminidase compared to vaccination strategies that targeted the HA stalk or M2e epitopes in isolation.
Machine Learning Approaches to Develop Pedotransfer Functions for Tropical Sri Lankan Soils
Authors: Gunarathna M.H.J.P. , Sakai Kazuhito , Nakandakari Tamotsu , Momii Kazuro , Kumari M.K.N.
Published: September 2019

Poor data availability on soil hydraulic properties in tropical regions hampers many studies, including crop and environmental modeling. The high cost and effort of measurement and the increasing demand for such data have driven researchers to search for alternative approaches. Pedotransfer functions (PTFs) are predictive functions used to estimate soil properties by easily measurable soil parameters. PTFs are popular in temperate regions, but few attempts have been made to develop PTFs in tropical regions. Regression approaches are widely used to develop PTFs worldwide, and recently a few attempts were made using machine learning methods. PTFs for tropical Sri Lankan soils have already been developed using classical multiple linear regression approaches. However, no attempts were made to use machine learning approaches. This study aimed to determine the applicability of machine learning algorithms in developing PTFs for tropical Sri Lankan soils. We tested three machine learning algorithms (artificial neural networks (ANN), k-nearest neighbor (KNN), and random forest (RF)) with three different input combination (sand, silt, and clay (SSC) percentages; SSC and bulk density (BD); SSC, BD, and organic carbon (OC)) to estimate volumetric water content (VWC) at −10 kPa, −33 kPa (representing field capacity (FC); however, most studies in Sri Lanka use −33 kPa as the FC) and −1500 kPa (representing the permanent wilting point (PWP)) of Sri Lankan soils. This analysis used the open-source data mining software in the Waikato Environment for Knowledge Analysis. Using a wrapper approach and best-first search method, we selected the most appropriate inputs to develop PTFs using different machine learning algorithms and input levels. We developed PTFs to estimate FC and PWP and compared them with the previously reported PTFs for tropical Sri Lankan soils. We found that RF was the best algorithm to develop PTFs for tropical Sri Lankan soils. We tried to further the development of PTFs by adding volumetric water content at −10 kPa as an input variable because it is quite an easily measurable parameter compared to the other targeted VWCs. With the addition of VWC at −10 kPa, all machine learning algorithms boosted the performance. However, RF was the best. We studied the functionality of finetuned PTFs and found that they can estimate the available water content of Sri Lankan soils as well as measurements-based calculations. We identified RF as a robust alternative to linear regression methods in developing PTFs to estimate field capacity and the permanent wilting point of tropical Sri Lankan soils. With those findings, we recommended that PTFs be developed using the RF algorithm in the related software to make up for the data gaps present in tropical regions.
Prescribing trends of gabapentin, pregabalin, and oxycodone: a secondary analysis of primary care prescribing patterns in England
Authors: Green Katlyn , Cooke O'Dowd Nora , Watt Hilary , Majeed Azeem , Pinder Richard J
Published: September 2019

Background

The risk of iatrogenic harm from the use and misuse of prescription drugs such as gabapentin, pregabalin, and oxycodone is substantial. In recent years, deaths associated with these drugs in England have increased.

Aim

To characterise general practice prescribing trends for gabapentin, pregabalin, and oxycodone — termed dependence forming medicines (DFM) — in England and describe potential drivers of unwarranted variation (that is, very high prescribing).

Design & setting

This study is a retrospective secondary analysis of open source, publicly available government data from various sources pertaining to primary care demographics and prescriptions.

Method

This study used 5 consecutive years (April 2013–March 2018) of aggregate data to investigate longitudinal trends of prescribing and variation in prescribing trends at practice and clinical commissioning group (CCG) level.

Results

Annual prescriptions of gabapentin, pregabalin, and oxycodone increased each year over the period. Variation in prescribing trends was associated with GP practice deprivation quintile, where the most deprived GP practices prescribed 313% (P<0.001) and 238% (P<0.001) greater volumes of gabapentin and pregabalin per person respectively, than practices in the least deprived quintile. The highest prescribing CCGs of each of these drugs were predominantly in northern and eastern regions of England.

Conclusion

Substantial increases in gabapentin, pregabalin, and oxycodone prescriptions are concerning and will increase iatrogenic harm from drug-related morbidity and mortality. More research is needed to understand the large variation in prescribing between general practices, and to develop and implement interventions to reduce unwarranted variation and increase the appropriateness of prescribing of these drugs.
Using phenotypic correlations in the breeding evaluation of Hungarian Sport Horse mares
Authors: Posta János , Komlósi István
Published: September 2019

The aim of this paper is to analyse phenotypic relationships between self performance test (SPT) parameters of Hungarian Sport Horse mares. Establishing these relationships may contribute to develop a breeding value estimation model. Data were given by the Association of Hungarian Sport Horse Breeders.The analysis is based on the SPT results of 3 and 4 year old mares from 1993 to 2004. Our aim is to determine practically explainable correlations among conformational traits (type, head, neck, saddle region, frame, forelegs, hind legs, regularity of movement, impulsion and elasticity of movement, overall impression); free jumping performance (jumping style, jumping ability, observation during training) and movement analysis traits (walk, trot, canter, overall impression, test rider’s score). A further aim is to determine correlations between free jumping performance and movement analysis traits.
Improvement of the Mechanical Properties of Hibiscus Esculentus (Okra) Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite
Authors: Chukwuma D. I. , Ikezue E. N. , Onu E. O. , Ezeugo J. O.
Published: September 2019

Natural fiber and their composites are the emerging trends in material science. They are speedily gaining grounds in the replacement of synthetic reinforcements. This is due to their low density, high specific mechanical strength, ultimate availability and disposability and less processing requirements. Most plant based fibers have become centers of research. This work is based on Okra fiber. Okra fiber was used as reinforcement in vinyl ester polymer matrix. Okra fiber was chemically treated using NaOH to clean fiber surface, modify the surface to increase the surface roughness and in general enhance bond strength between fiber and matrix. Reinforcement of the matrix using Okra fiber increases mechanical properties of the composite. But for optimal result, certain parameters were considered and varied. The two parameters considered were: fiber length, and proportion or volume fraction. Different variations of fiber length considered were: 10mm, 30mm and 50mm while the different fiber volume fractions considered are 10%, 30% and 50%. This work has analyzed how these parameters can be best combined for optimum values of tensile properties of the composite. The tensile strength of composite was highest at fiber length of 50mm and volume fraction of 10% at ultimate tensile strength of 214MPa.