bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Degradation of Exopolysaccharides from Lactic Acid Bacteria by Thermal, Chemical, Enzymatic and Ultrasound Stresses
Authors: Nachtigall Carsten , Rohm Harald , Jaros Doris
Published: February 2021

During isolation, exopolysaccharides (EPS) from lactic acid bacteria are subject of thermal, chemical, enzymatic or ultrasound stress of different intensity that may affect macromolecular properties, for instance molecular mass or (intrinsic) viscosity. These parameters are, however, crucial, as they are associated with the technofunctional potential of EPS replacing commercial thickeners in nonfermented products. The aim of this study was to systematically examine treatments EPS are usually exposed to during isolation and to investigate the underlying degradation mechanisms. Solutions (1.0 g/L) of EPS from Streptococcus thermophilus, isolated as gently as possible, and commercial dextran were analyzed for molecular mass distributions as representative measure of molecule alterations. Generally, acid, excessive heat and ultrasonication, intensified by simultaneous application, showed EPS degradation effects. Thus, recommendations are given for isolation protocols. Ultrasonic degradation at 114 W/cm² fitted into the random chain scission model and followed third- (S. thermophilus EPS) or second-order kinetics (dextran). The degradation rate constant reflects the sensitivity to external stresses and was DGCC7710 EPS > DGCC7919 EPS > dextran > ST143 EPS. Due to their exceptional structural heterogeneity, the differences could not be linked to individual features. The resulting molecular mass showed good correlation (r² = 0.99) with dynamic viscosity.
Coriandrum sativum L.—Effect of Multiple Drying Techniques on Volatile and Sensory Profile
Authors: Łyczko Jacek , Masztalerz Klaudia , Lipan Leontina , Iwiński Hubert , Lech Krzysztof , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A. , Szumny Antoni
Published: February 2021

Coriandrum sativum L. is a medicinal and aromatic plant spread around the world, with beneficial properties that are well recognized. Both coriander seeds and leaves are used for pharmaceutical and flavoring purposes. Even though coriander seeds tend to be more popular, the leaves are receiving a consistently growing interest, especially because of popularization of Mexican, Northern African, and Indian cuisines. This increased attention brings about the necessity for providing the product with guaranteed quality, which will retain its valuable characteristics, even after post-harvest treatment. For this reason, it is highly necessary to determine reliable protocols for cilantro preservation, which usually include drying procedures; in order to identify the optimal drying treatments, a spectrum of drying techniques—convective, vacuum-microwave, and a combination of convective and vacuum-microwave—were evaluated. Cilantro-based dried products were examined from the perspectives of volatile organic constituent composition and sensory quality. After headspace solid-phase microextraction-GC/MS analysis and sensory tests, the results demonstrate that convective drying at 70 °C for 120 min followed by vacuum-microwave drying at 360 W and convective drying at 70 °C were the optimal drying methods for preserving cilantro aroma quality, while convective drying at 70 °C for 120 min followed by convective finishing drying at 50 °C decreased cilantro aroma quality.
Effect of Crocus sativus L. Stigmas Microwave Dehydration on Picrocrocin, Safranal and Crocetin Esters
Authors: García-Blázquez Aarón , Moratalla-López Natalia , Lorenzo Cándida , Salinas M. Rosario , Alonso Gonzalo L.
Published: February 2021

The dehydration process is the basis to obtain high quality saffron and to preserve it for a long time. This process modifies saffron’s main metabolites that define its quality, and are responsible for the characteristic color, taste, and aroma of the spice. In this work, the effect of microwave dehydration on saffron main metabolites (picrocrocin, safranal and crocetin esters) from Crocus sativus L. stigmas at three determinate powers and different time lapses was evaluated. The results showed that this dehydration process obtained similar or lower crocetin esters content, and after three months of storage, higher concentration was shown in treatments at 440 W for 36 s, 55 s, and 73 s; at 616 W for 90 s; and at 800 W for 20 s. Picrocrocin content was lower and safranal content was higher in all treatments compared to the control both before and after storage. Regarding to commercial quality, microwave dehydration obtained Category I of saffron according to International Standard Organization (ISO) 3632. After three months of storage, treatments at 616 W for 83 s and 800 W for 60 s obtained lower categories. The results obtained suggest that microwave dehydration is a suitable process for obtaining high quality saffron, 800 W with 6 lapses of 20 s being the best conditions studied.
The Effect of Balsamic Vinegar Dressing on Protein and Carbohydrate Digestibility is Dependent on the Food Matrix
Authors: Urbinati Eleonora , Di Nunzio Mattia , Picone Gianfranco , Chiarello Elena , Bordoni Alessandra , Capozzi Francesco
Published: February 2021

The balsamic vinegar of Modena (BVM), a food specialty under the European Protected Geographical Indication system, is made from grape must blended with wine vinegar exclusively in the Italian province of Modena or Reggio Emilia. Vinegar is associated to an improved digestive function and glycemic response to carbohydrate-rich meals, appetite stimulation, and reduction of hyperlipidemia and obesity. Although many of these effects are attributed to the high concentration of bioactive molecules, the modulation of digestive enzymes activity could have a role. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BVM on the digestibility and component release of three foods that are often seasoned with this dressing but have different composition: Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Bresaola (cured meat), and boiled potatoes. BVM modulated the protein digestion of protein-rich foods (cheese and cured meat) in a matrix-dependent manner, and the BVM effect was mainly related to the inhibition of pepsin in the gastric phase. In the starch-rich food (boiled potatoes), the most impressive effect of BVM was the lower release of anomeric and total carbohydrates, which was consistent with the observed reduction of pancreatic amylase activity. The present investigation shed a new light on the impact of BVM on the digestion process.
Qualitative Research on the Primary Effect of Fish Pet Ownership Using the Bottleium, a Bottle-Type Aquarium, on Community-Dwelling Older Adults in Japan: A Potential Preventive Measure towards Social Isolation
Authors: Takase Mai , Ogino Ryogo , Yoshida Keishiro , Kusu Hikari , Kenmochi Tetsuya , Goto Jun
Published: February 2021

Aging increases the risk of social isolation, which could lead to conditions such as depressive mood. Pet ownership is known to reduce social isolation. However, previous studies have mainly focused on mammals as pets, which could be difficult at old age. A small ornamental fish is relatively easy to culture and might be a suitable alternative. In this research, we aimed to elucidate the possible effects of fish ownership on the psychological state of community-dwelling older adults in Japan. A Bottleium, a bottle-type aquarium, was selected to lower the burden of fish ownership. A workshop was hosted in 2019 and participants brought home their own Bottleium, with fish and water snail inside. Nineteen participants gave consent to the follow-up interview a month later. Five themes, “observation of fish and water snail”, “interaction between the fish and the owner”, “taking care of the fish as pet owner”, “facilitation of interpersonal interaction”, and “development of support system”, emerged from thematic analysis. The promotion of animal-to-human, and human-to-human interaction and development of responsibility could relate to a sense of social inclusion and ikigai-kan, a purpose of life. Fish ownership, when using equipment that suits the physical capability of older adults, could act as a positive stimulus.
The Seniors’ Community Hub: An Integrated Model of Care for the Identification and Management of Frailty in Primary Care
Authors: Abbasi Marjan , Khera Sheny , Dabravolskaj Julia , Chevalier Bernadette , Parker Kelly
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: Integrated models of primary care deliver the comprehensive and preventative approach needed to identify and manage frailty in older people. Seniors’ Community Hub (SCH) was developed to deliver person-centered, evidence-informed, coordinated, and integrated care services to older community dwelling adults living with frailty. This paper aims to describe the SCH model, and to present patient-oriented results of the pilot. (2) Methods: SCH was piloted in an academic clinic with six family physicians. Eligible patients were community dwelling, 65 years of age and older, and considered to be at risk of frailty (eFI > 0.12). Health professionals within the clinic received training in geriatrics and interprofessional teamwork to form the SCH team working with family physicians, patients and caregivers. The SCH intervention consisted of a team-based multi-domain assessment with person-centered care planning and follow-up. Patient-oriented outcomes (EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS) and 4-metre gait speed were measured at initial visit and 12 months later. (3) Results: 88 patients were enrolled in the pilot from April 2016–December 2018. No statistically significant differences in EQ-5D-5L/VAS or the 4-metre gait speed were detected in 38 patients completing the 12-month assessment. (4) Conclusions: Future larger scale studies of longer duration are needed to demonstrate impacts of integrated models of primary care on patient-oriented outcomes for older adults living with frailty.
A Novel Method for a COVID-19 Classification of Countries Based on an Intelligent Fuzzy Fractal Approach
Authors: Castillo Oscar , Melin Patricia
Published: February 2021

We outline in this article a hybrid intelligent fuzzy fractal approach for classification of countries based on a mixture of fractal theoretical concepts and fuzzy logic mathematical constructs. The mathematical definition of the fractal dimension provides a way to estimate the complexity of the non-linear dynamic behavior exhibited by the time series of the countries. Fuzzy logic offers a way to represent and handle the inherent uncertainty of the classification problem. The hybrid intelligent approach is composed of a fuzzy system formed by a set of fuzzy rules that uses the fractal dimensions of the data as inputs and produce as a final output the classification of countries. The hybrid approach calculations are based on the COVID-19 data of confirmed and death cases. The main contribution is the proposed hybrid approach composed of the fractal dimension definition and fuzzy logic concepts for achieving an accurate classification of countries based on the complexity of the COVID-19 time series data. Publicly available datasets of 11 countries have been the basis to construct the fuzzy system and 15 different countries were considered in the validation of the proposed classification approach. Simulation results show that a classification accuracy over 93% can be achieved, which can be considered good for this complex problem.
Analysis of Occupational Balance and Its Relation to Problematic Internet Use in University Occupational Therapy Students
Authors: Romero-Tébar Alejandro , Rodríguez-Hernández Marta , Segura-Fragoso Antonio , Cantero-Garlito Pablo A.
Published: February 2021

(1) Objective: to explore and describe the relationship between the occupational balance of university students taking a Degree in Occupational Therapy and the problematic use of the Internet and how these, in turn, favour or not the appearance of phubbing behaviour which involves “a behaviour that happens when an individual looks at his mobile phone during a conversation with other individuals, escaping from interpersonal communication”. (2) Methods: this is a quantitative descriptive study of an observational and cross-sectional nature, not experimental. The Spanish version of the Occupational Balance Questionnaire (OBQ-E), the Internet Addiction Test and the Phubbing Scale were used for data collection. 192 university students taking the Degree in Occupational Therapy of the University of Castilla–La Mancha participated (168 women and 24 men). (3) Results: the average score obtained in the OBQ-E was 38.7, indicating a moderate occupational balance; and (4) Conclusions: occupational therapy students from the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Castilla–La Mancha have a moderate occupational balance. Furthermore, this is negatively related to both problematic Internet use and phubbing, so a higher occupational balance indicates less Internet addiction and less phubbing.
Pandemic Pause: Systematic Review of Cost Variables for Ambulatory Care Organizations Participating in Accountable Care Organizations
Authors: Lieneck Cristian , Weaver Eric , Maryon Thomas
Published: February 2021

Ambulatory health care provider organizations participating in Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) organizations assume costs beyond typical practice operations that are directly associated with value-based care initiatives. Identifying these variables that influence such costs are essential to an organization’s financial viability. To enable the U.S. healthcare system to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic CMS issued blanket waivers that permit enhanced flexibility, extension, and other emergency declaration changes to ACO reporting requirements through the unforeseen future. This relaxation and even pausing of reporting requirements encouraged the researchers to conduct a systematic review and identify variables that have influenced costs incurred by ambulatory care organizations participating in ACOs prior to the emergency declaration. The research findings identified ACO-ambulatory care variables (enhanced patient care management, health information technology improvements, and organizational ownership/reimbursement models) that helped to reduce costs to the ambulatory care organization. Additional variables (social determinants of health/environmental conditions, lack of integration/standardization, and misalignment of financial incentives) were also identified in the literature as having influenced costs for ambulatory care organizations while participating in an ACO initiative with CMS. Findings can assist ambulatory care organizations to focus on new and optimized strategies as they begin to prepare for the post-pandemic resumption of ACO quality reporting requirements once the emergency declaration is eventually lifted.
Comparative Analysis of Rain Gauge and Radar Precipitation Estimates towards Rainfall-Runoff Modelling in a Peri-Urban Basin in Attica, Greece
Authors: Bournas Apollon , Baltas Evangelos
Published: February 2021

In this research work, an analysis is conducted concerning the impact on rainfall-runoff simulations of utilizing rain gauge precipitation measurements against weather radar quantitative precipitation estimates. The study area is the Sarantapotamos river basin, a peri-urban basin located in the greater area of Athens, and measurements from a newly installed X-Band weather radar system, referred to as rainscanner, along with ground rain gauge stations were used. Rainscanner, in contrast to rain gauges, is able to provide with higher resolution surface precipitation datasets, but due to signal errors, uncertainty is involved, and thus proper calibration and evaluation of these estimates must be first performed. In this context, this research work evaluates the impact of adopting different precipitation datasets and interpolation methods for generating runoff, through the use of a lumped based rainfall-runoff model. Initially, the analysis focuses on the correlation between the rain gauge and the rainscanner estimations for each station, as well as for the calculated mean areal precipitation. The results of the rainfall-runoff simulations show that even though a different spatial and temporal variability of the rainfall field is calculated through the two datasets, in a lumped-based scheme, the most important factor that dictates the runoff generation is the amount of total precipitation.
A Comprehensive Uncertainty-Based Framework for Inspection Planning of Highway Bridges
Authors: Abdallah Abdelrahman M. , Atadero Rebecca A. , Ozbek Mehmet E.
Published: February 2021

Bridge inspection standards in the United States require routine visual inspections to be conducted on most bridges at a maximum interval of two years regardless of the bridge condition. Limitations of this uniform calendar-based approach have been reported in the literature. Accordingly, the objective of this study is to provide a new systematic approach for inspection planning that integrates information from bridge condition prediction models, inspection data, and expert opinion using Bayesian analysis to enhance inspection efficiency and maintenance activities. The uncertainty-based inspection framework proposed in this study can help bridge owners avoid unnecessary or delayed inspections and repair actions, determine the inspection method, and consider more than one deterioration process or bridge component during the inspection planning process. The inspection time and method are determined based on the uncertainty and risks associated with the bridge condition. As uncertainty in the bridge condition reaches a defined threshold, an inspection is scheduled utilizing nondestructive techniques to reduce the uncertainty level. The framework is demonstrated on a new and on an existing reinforced concrete bridge deck impacted by corrosion deterioration. The results show that the framework can reduce the number of inspections by 50% compared to conventional scheduling methods, and the uncertainty regarding the bridge maintenance time is reduced by 16%.
The Photochemistry of Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)6(µ-CO) and Its Oxidized Form, Two Simple [FeFe]-Hydrogenase CO-Inhibited Models. A DFT and TDDFT Investigation
Authors: Arrigoni Federica , Zampella Giuseppe , De Gioia Luca , Greco Claudio , Bertini Luca
Published: February 2021

FeIFeI Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)6(µ-CO) (1a–CO) and its FeIFeII cationic species (2a+–CO) are the simplest model of the CO-inhibited [FeFe] hydrogenase active site, which is known to undergo CO photolysis within a temperature-dependent process whose products and mechanism are still a matter of debate. Using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) computations, the ground state and low-lying excited-state potential energy surfaces (PESs) of 1a–CO and 2a+–CO have been explored aimed at elucidating the dynamics of the CO photolysis yielding Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)6 (1a) and [Fe2(S2C3H6)(CO)6]+ (2a+), two simple models of the catalytic site of the enzyme. Two main results came out from these investigations. First, a–CO and 2a+–CO are both bound with respect to any CO dissociation with the lowest free energy barriers around 10 kcal mol−1, suggesting that at least 2a+–CO may be synthesized. Second, focusing on the cationic form, we found at least two clear excited-state channels along the PESs of 2a+–CO that are unbound with respect to equatorial CO dissociation.
On the Use of Molecular Dynamics Simulations for Elucidating Fine Structural, Physico-Chemical and Thermomechanical Properties of Lignocellulosic Systems: Historical and Future Perspectives
Authors: Prasad Krishnamurthy , Nikzad Mostafa , Nisha Shammi Sultana , Sbarski Igor
Published: February 2021

The use of Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations for predicting subtle structural, thermomechanical and related characteristics of lignocellulosic systems is studied. A historical perspective and the current state of the art are discussed. The use of parameterised MD force fields, scaling up simulations via high performance computing and intrinsic molecular mechanisms influencing the mechanical, thermal and chemical characteristics of lignocellulosic systems and how these can be predicted and modelled using MD is shown. Individual discussions on the MD simulations of the lignin, cellulose, lignin-carbohydrate complex (LCC) and how MD can elucidate the role of water on the surface and microstructural characteristics of these lignocellulosic systems is shown. In addition, the use of MD for unearthing molecular mechanisms behind lignin-enzyme interactions during precipitation processes and the deforming/structure weakening brought about by cellulosic interactions in some lignocellulosic systems is both predicted and quantified. MD results from relatively smaller systems comprised of several hundred to a few thousand atoms and massive multi-million atom systems are both discussed. The versatility and effectiveness of MD based on its ability to provide viable predictions from both smaller and massive starting systems is presented in detail.
Design of Hybrid-Electric Megayachts: The Impact of Operative Profile and Smart Berthing Infrastructures
Authors: Mauro Francesco , Ghigliossi Elia , Bucci Vittorio , Marinó Alberto
Published: February 2021

Nowadays, sustainable navigation is becoming a trending topic not only for merchant ships but also for pleasure vessels such as motoryachts. Therefore, the adoption of a hybrid-electric propulsion system and the installation of on-board storage devices could increase the greenness of a megayacht. This paper analyses the performance of three commercial propulsive solutions, using a dynamic operative profile and considering the influences of the smart berthing infrastructures. Results compare the yearly fuel consumptions of the analysed configurations for a reference megayacht.
Satellite-Derived Protein Concentration of Phytoplankton in the Southwestern East/Japan Sea
Authors: Bae Hyeonji , Lee Dabin , Kang Jae Joong , Lee Jae Hyung , Jo Naeun , Kim Kwanwoo , Jang Hyo Keun , Kim Myung Joon , Kim Yejin , Kwon Jae-Il , Lee Sang Heon
Published: February 2021

The cellular macromolecular contents and energy value of phytoplankton as primary food source determine the growth of higher trophic levels, affecting the balance and sustainability of oceanic food webs. Especially, proteins are more directly linked with basic functions of phytoplankton biosynthesis and cell division and transferred through the food chains. In recent years, the East/Japan Sea (EJS) has been changed dramatically in environmental conditions, such as physical and chemical characteristics, as well as biological properties. Therefore, developing an algorithm to estimate the protein concentration of phytoplankton and monitor their spatiotemporal variations on a broad scale would be invaluable. To derive the protein concentration of phytoplankton in EJS, the new regional algorithm was developed by using multiple linear regression analyses based on field-measured data which were obtained from 2012 to 2018 in the southwestern EJS. The major factors for the protein concentration were identified as chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and sea surface nitrate (SSN) in the southwestern EJS. The coefficient of determination (r2) between field-measured and algorithm-derived protein concentrations was 0.55, which is rather low but reliable. The satellite-derived estimation generally follows the 1:1 line with the field-measured data, with Pearson’s correlation coefficient, which was 0.40 (p-value < 0.01, n = 135). No remarkable trend in the long-term annual protein concentration of phytoplankton was found in the study area during our observation period. However, some seasonal difference was observed in winter protein concentration between the 2003–2005 and 2017–2019 periods. The algorithm is developed for the regional East/Japan Sea (EJS) and could contribute to long-term monitoring for climate-associated ecosystem changes. For a better understanding of spatiotemporal variation in the protein concentration of phytoplankton in the EJS, this algorithm should be further improved with continuous field surveys.
Optimal Actuator Placement for Real-Time Hybrid Model Testing Using Cable-Driven Parallel Robots
Authors: Ueland Einar , Sauder Thomas , Skjetne Roger
Published: February 2021

In real-time hybrid model testing, complex ocean structures are emulated by fusing numerical modelling with traditional hydrodynamic model testing. This is done by partitioning the ocean structure under consideration into a numerical and a physical substructure, coupled in real time via a measurement and control interface. The numerically computed load vector is applied to the physical substructure by means of multiple actuated winches so that the resulting experimental platform becomes a type of cable-driven parallel robot. In this context, the placement of the actuated winches is important to ensure that the loads can be accurately and robustly transferred to the physical substructure. This paper addresses this problem by proposing a performance measure and an associated actuator placement procedure that enables accurate force tracking and ensures that the numerically calculated loads can be actuated throughout the testing campaign. To clarify the application of the proposed procedure, it is applied to the design of a test setup for a moored barge. Overall, the paper represents a guideline for robust and beneficial actuator placement for real-time hybrid model testing using cable-driven parallel robots for load-actuation.
A Detailed Identification of Classificatory Variables in Ship Accidents: A Spanish Case Study
Authors: Maceiras Candela , Pérez-Canosa José M. , Vergara Diego , Orosa José A.
Published: February 2021

The present paper shows an original study of more than 163 ship accidents in Spain showing which of the usually employed variables are related to each type of vessel accident due to the lack of information in this region. To this end, research was carried out based on the Spanish Commission for Investigation of Maritime Accidents and Incidents (CIAIM) reports. Detailed combinatory ANOVA analysis and Bayesian networks results showed a good agreement with studies of other regions but with some particularities per each type of accident analyzed. In particular, ship length was defined as the more relevant variable at the time to differentiate types of accidents. At the same time, both the year of build and the fact that the ship meets the minimum crew members required were excellent variables to model ship accidents. Despite this, the particularities of the Spanish Search and Rescue (SAR) region were defined at the time to identify accidents. In this sense, although variables like visibility and sea conditions were employed in different previous studies as variables related to accidents occurrences, they were the worst variables to define accidents for this region. Finally, different models to relate variables were obtained being the base of deterministic dynamic analysis. Furthermore, to improve the accuracy of the developed work some indications were obtained; revision of CIAIM accidents scales, identification of redundant variables, and the need for an agreement at the time to define the classification limits of each identification variable.
Effect of Seawater Ageing on Fracture Toughness of Stitched Glass Fiber/Epoxy Laminates for Marine Applications
Authors: Hassan Atizaz , Khan Rafiullah , Khan Numan , Aamir Muhammad , Pimenov Danil Yurievich , Giasin Khaled
Published: February 2021

Composite materials are used in various industries such as marine, aircraft, automotive, etc. In marine applications, composites are exposed to seawater, which can affect their mechanical properties due to moisture absorption. This work focuses on the durability of composite materials under the short-term effect of seawater ageing. The specimens were prepared from glass fiber/epoxy using a hand lap-up method and stitched in the z-direction with Kevlar fiber. The specimens were submerged in seawater for 24 and 35 days. A significant decrease in maximum load was found as specimen immersion time in seawater increased. The seawater ageing also affected fracture toughness with a reduction of 30% for 24 days immersion and 55% for 35 days. The ageing also caused the swelling of composites due to moisture absorption, which increased the weight of the specimens. Compared to the dry specimens, the weight of the specimen for 24 days increases to 5.2% and 7.89% for 35 days’ seawater ageing. The analysis also showed that due to seawater ageing, the de-bonding rate increased as the number of days increased.
Mixed Convection Flow of Powell–Eyring Nanofluid near a Stagnation Point along a Vertical Stretching Sheet
Authors: Abdul Halim Nadhirah , Mohd Noor Noor Fadiya
Published: February 2021

A stagnation-point flow of a Powell–Eyring nanofluid along a vertical stretching surface is examined. The buoyancy force effect due to mixed convection is taken into consideration along with the Brownian motion and thermophoresis effect. The flow is investigated under active and passive controls of nanoparticles at the surface. The associating partial differential equations are converted into a set of nonlinear, ordinary differential equations using similarity conversions. Then, the equations are reduced to first-order differential equations before further being solved using the shooting method and bvp4c function in MATLAB. All results are presented in graphical and tabular forms. The buoyancy parameter causes the skin friction coefficient to increase in opposing flows but to decrease in assisting flows. In the absence of buoyancy force, there is no difference in the magnitude of the skin friction coefficient between active and passive controls of the nanoparticles. Stagnation has a bigger influence under passive control in enhancing the heat transfer rate as compared to when the fluid is under active control. Assisting flows have better heat and mass transfer rates with a lower magnitude of skin friction coefficient as compared to opposing flows. In this case, the nanofluid parameters, the Brownian motion, and thermophoresis altogether reduce the overall heat transfer rates of the non-Newtonian nanofluid.
Level Operators over Intuitionistic Fuzzy Index Matrices
Authors: Atanassov Krassimir , Vassilev Peter , Roeva Olympia
Published: February 2021

The index matrix (IM) is an extension of the ordinary matrix with indexed rows and columns. Over IMs’ standard matrix operations are defined and a lot of other ones that do not exist in the standard case. Intuitionistic fuzzy IMs (IFIMs) are modification of the IMs, when their elements are intuitionistic fuzzy pairs (IFPs). Extended IFIMs are IFIMs whose indices of the rows and columns are evaluated by IFPs. Different operations, relations and operators over IFIMs, and some specific ones, are defined for EIFIMs. In the paper, twelve new level operators are defined for EIFIMs and in the partial case, over IFIMs. The proposed level operators fall into two groups: operators that change the values of the EIFIM elements and operators that change the IFPs associated to the indices of the rows and columns. The basic properties of the operators are studied.
ConvGraph: Community Detection of Homogeneous Relationships in Weighted Graphs
Authors: Muñoz Héctor , Vicente Eloy , González Ignacio , Mateos Alfonso , Jiménez-Martín Antonio
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a new method, ConvGraph, to detect communities in highly cohesive and isolated weighted graphs, where the sum of the weights is significantly higher inside than outside the communities. The method starts by transforming the original graph into a line graph to apply a convolution, a common technique in the computer vision field. Although this technique was originally conceived to detect the optimum edge in images, it is used here to detect the optimum edges in communities identified by their weights rather than by their topology. The method includes a final refinement step applied to communities with a high vertex density that could not be detected in the first phase. The proposed algorithm was tested on a series of highly cohesive and isolated synthetic graphs and on a real-world export graph, performing well in both cases.
Health-Promoting Role of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Isolated from Fermented Foods
Authors: Garcia-Gonzalez Natalia , Battista Natalia , Prete Roberta , Corsetti Aldo
Published: February 2021

Fermentation processes have been used for centuries for food production and preservation. Besides the contribution of fermentation to food quality, recently, scientific interest in the beneficial nature of fermented foods as a reservoir of probiotic candidates is increasing. Fermented food microbes are gaining attention for their health-promoting potential and for being genetically related to human probiotic bacteria. Among them, Lactiplantibacillus (Lpb.) plantarum strains, with a long history in the food industry as starter cultures in the production of a wide variety of fermented foods, are being investigated for their beneficial properties which are similar to those of probiotic strains, and they are also applied in clinical interventions. Food-associated Lpb. plantarum showed a good adaptation and adhesion ability in the gastro-intestinal tract and the potential to affect host health through various beneficial activities, e.g., antimicrobial, antioxidative, antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory, in several in vitro and in vivo studies. This review provides an overview of fermented-associated Lpb. plantarum health benefits with evidence from clinical studies. Probiotic criteria that fermented-associated microbes need to fulfil are also reported.
Syntrophic Hydrocarbon Degradation in a Decommissioned Off-Shore Subsea Oil Storage Structure
Authors: Vigneron Adrien , Cruaud Perrine , Ducellier Frederic , Head Ian M. , Tsesmetzis Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Over the last decade, metagenomic studies have revealed the impact of oil production on the microbial ecology of petroleum reservoirs. However, despite their fundamental roles in bioremediation of hydrocarbons, biocorrosion, biofouling and hydrogen sulfide production, oil field and oil production infrastructure microbiomes are poorly explored. Understanding of microbial activities within oil production facilities is therefore crucial for environmental risk mitigation, most notably during decommissioning. The analysis of the planktonic microbial community from the aqueous phase of a subsea oil-storage structure was conducted. This concrete structure was part of the production platform of the Brent oil field (North Sea), which is currently undergoing decommissioning. Quantification and sequencing of microbial 16S rRNA genes, metagenomic analysis and reconstruction of metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) revealed a unique microbiome, strongly dominated by organisms related to Dethiosulfatibacter and Cloacimonadetes. Consistent with the hydrocarbon content in the aqueous phase of the structure, a strong potential for degradation of low molecular weight aromatic hydrocarbons was apparent in the microbial community. These degradation pathways were associated with taxonomically diverse microorganisms, including the predominant Dethiosulfatibacter and Cloacimonadetes lineages, expanding the list of potential hydrocarbon degraders. Genes associated with direct and indirect interspecies exchanges (multiheme type-C cytochromes, hydrogenases and formate/acetate metabolism) were widespread in the community, suggesting potential syntrophic hydrocarbon degradation processes in the system. Our results illustrate the importance of genomic data for informing decommissioning strategies in marine environments and reveal that hydrocarbon-degrading community composition and metabolisms in man-made marine structures might differ markedly from natural hydrocarbon-rich marine environments.
NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitors in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Mezzaroma Eleonora , Abbate Antonio , Toldo Stefano
Published: February 2021

Virtually all types of cardiovascular diseases are associated with pathological activation of the innate immune system. The NACHT, leucine-rich repeat (LRR), and pyrin domain (PYD)-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a protein complex that functions as a platform for rapid induction of the inflammatory response to infection or sterile injury. NLRP3 is an intracellular sensor that is sensitive to danger signals, such as ischemia and extracellular or intracellular alarmins during tissue injury. The NLRP3 inflammasome is regulated by the presence of damage-associated molecular patterns and initiates or amplifies inflammatory response through the production of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and/or IL-18. NLRP3 activation regulates cell survival through the activity of caspase-1 and gasdermin-D. The development of NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitors has opened the possibility to targeting the deleterious effects of NLRP3. Here, we examine the scientific evidence supporting a role for NLRP3 and the effects of inhibitors in cardiovascular diseases.
Implementation of a Pharmacogenomic Testing Service through Community Pharmacy in the Netherlands: Results from an Early Service Evaluation
Authors: Thornley Tracey , Esquivel Bernard , Wright David J. , Dop Hidde van den , Kirkdale Charlotte L. , Youssef Essra
Published: February 2021

Community pharmacy services have evolved to include medical and pharmaceutical interventions alongside dispensing. While established pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing is available throughout the Netherlands, this is primarily based in hospital environments and for specialist medicines. The aim of this work was to describe how best to implement PGx services within community pharmacy, considering potential barriers and enablers to service delivery and how to address them. The service was implemented across a selection of community pharmacies in the Netherlands. Data were captured on test outcomes and through a pharmacist survey. Following testing, 17.8% of the clinical samples were recommended to avoid certain medication (based on their current medicines use), and 14.0% to have their dose adjusted. Pre-emptive analysis of genotyped patients showed that the majority (99.2%) had actionable variants. Pharmacists felt confident in their operational knowledge to deliver the service, but less so in applying that knowledge. Delivering the service was believed to improve relationships with other healthcare professionals. These results add to the evidence in understanding how PGx can be delivered effectively within the community pharmacy environment. Training pharmacists in how to respond to patient queries and make clinical recommendations may enhance service provision further.
Influence of Hanseniasporauvarum AS27 on Chemical and Sensorial Characteristics of Aglianico Wine
Authors: Testa Bruno , Coppola Francesca , Lombardi Silvia Jane , Iorizzo Massimo , Letizia Francesco , Di Renzo Massimo , Succi Mariantonietta , Tremonte Patrizio
Published: February 2021

In this work was evaluated the effect of sequential inoculum of Hanseniaspora uvarum AS27 strain and a commercial Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast on the physical–chemical and organoleptic features of Aglianico, a traditional red wine of Southern Italy. Four fermentation treatments on a pilot scale were performed. In fermentation treatment A, the alcoholic fermentation was spontaneously conducted by the indigenous yeasts present in grape must. In the fermentation treatments B and C were inoculated respectively S. cerevisiae FE and H. uvarum AS27 strains, as a single starter. The fermentation treatment D was initially inoculated with H. uvarum AS27, and S. cerevisiae strain was added after 72 h (sequential inoculation). Microbiological, physical–chemical parameters and sensory profiles of the wines have been defined. The results showed that the use of H. uvarum AS27, in sequential inoculum with S. cerevisiae FE, influenced the wine composition, enriching it in polyphenolic and volatile compounds. Further, the sensory evaluation showed that the use of H. uvarum AS27 strain, in co-culture with S. cerevisiae, gives the wine more pleasant characteristics. Therefore, the results have highlighted how the use of particular non-Saccharomyces yeasts can represent a biotechnological resource in red wine production.
Validation of the Molar Flow Rates of Oil and Gas in Three-Phase Separators Using Aspen Hysys
Authors: Olugbenga Adeola Grace , Al-Mhanna Najah M. , Yahya Muibat Diekola , Afolabi Eyitayo Amos , Ola Martins Kolade
Published: February 2021

A three-phase separator is the first vessel encountered by well fluids. The application of separators has been of great value to the oil and gas industry. In order to generate the gas phase envelope that is applicable to the study of reservoir fluid and the selection of optimum operating conditions of separators, this research utilizes a specified reservoir fluid stream to simulate a three-phase separator executed in Aspen HYSYS. Subsequently, a comparative study of the effects of specified inlet operating conditions on the output of gas and oil streams was carried out. The results show that changing the inlet pressure of the separator from 1000 to 8000 kPa reduces the gas outlet flow from 1213 to 908.6 kg mol/h, while it increases the liquid flow rate from 374 to 838.0 kg mole/h. By changing the temperature of the separator feed stream from 13 to 83 °C, the gas outlet stream was raised from 707.4 to 1111 kg mol/h, while the liquid flow rate dropped from 1037.0 to 646.1 kg mol/h. It was observed that the concentration of the outlet methane product is not affected by changing the flow rate of the feed stream at a specific pressure and temperature. Therefore, the thermodynamic property method is appropriate to simulate the separation of reservoir fluids which was achieved by selecting the Peng–Robinson (PR) model. The operating conditions of the separator were at 8000 kPa and 43 °C, which lies right on the dew point line. This is comparable to similar work on CHEMCAD which was in turn validated by plant data. Thus, the gas flow rate and the oil flow rate were dependent on pressure and temperature conditions of the plant.
Failure Prognosis Based on Relevant Measurements Identification and Data-Driven Trend-Modeling: Application to a Fuel Cell System
Authors: Djeziri Mohand , Djedidi Oussama , Benmoussa Samir , Bendahan Marc , Seguin Jean-Luc
Published: February 2021

Fuel cells are key elements in the transition to clean energy thanks to their neutral carbon footprint, as well as their great capacity for the generation of electrical energy by oxidizing hydrogen. However, these cells operate under straining conditions of temperature and humidity that favor degradation processes. Furthermore, the presence of hydrogen—a highly flammable gas—renders the assessment of their degradations and failures crucial to the safety of their use. This paper deals with the combination of physical knowledge and data analysis for the identification of health indices (HIs) that carry information on the degradation process of fuel cells. Then, a failure prognosis method is achieved through the trend modeling of the identified HI using a data-driven and updatable state model. Finally, the remaining useful life is predicted through the calculation of the times of crossing of the predicted HI and the failure threshold. The trend model is updated when the estimation error between the predicted and measured values of the HI surpasses a predefined threshold to guarantee the adaptation of the prediction to changes in the operating conditions of the system. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated by evaluating the obtained experimental results with prognosis performance analysis techniques.
Biomass Energy Technologies from Innovative Dairy Farming Systems
Authors: Romaniuk Wacław , Mazur Kamila , Borek Kinga , Borusiewicz Andrzej , Wardal Witold Jan , Tabor Sylwester , Kuboń Maciej
Published: February 2021

Modern and innovative dairy cattle breeding technologies are highly dependent on the level of mechanization. This article presents modern solutions for dairy cattle breeding, in particular, for livestock buildings, in which longitudinal development is possible in accordance with the farm’s needs as well as with obtaining additional energy from biogas and post-ferment for granulated organic fertilizer. In the analysed technology for milk production, methane fermentation, biogas yield, and the possibility of fertilizer production in the form of granules are considered. The presented modular cattle breeding technology includes sustainable production, which is economic; environmentally friendly, with preconditions in the facility including animal welfare; and socially acceptable, resulting from a high level of mechanization, which ensures both comfortable working conditions and high milk quality. The presented production line is an integral part of the milk production process with the possibility of organic fertilizer being used in the production of healthy food.
Changes in Water Quality of the River das Antas as It Passes through Rural and Urban Areas
Authors: Antoneli Valdemir , Pulido-Fernández Manuel , Bednarz João Anésio , Brandes Leonardo , Vrahnakis Michael , Kazoglou Yannis , Lozano-Parra Javier , García-Marín Ramón
Published: February 2021

The catchment area of River das Antas (Irati, Paraná, Brazil) is of high importance both for human consumption and irrigation. Within Irati, this river passes through a rural area and through the city of Irati, crossing both poor and rich neighbourhoods. We selected three study areas downstream (a rural area, poor community, and rich neighbourhood) in which we measured turbidity, the concentration of sediments and pH during rainy days. Our results showed downstream trends of increasing turbidity and concentrations of sediments with decreasing pH. The values of turbidity and of concentration of sediments were significantly different in the rural area, while the pH values were significantly different between the three study areas. These findings highlight the effect of agricultural activities in the generation of sediments and turbidity. The—presumably expected—effects of organic urban waste from the poor neighbourhood were also detected in the pH values. We conclude that efforts should be made to ensure that land planning and training/education programmes on sustainable farming practices are undertaken by the authorities to reduce water pollution and its effects on water bodies during rainfall events, since paving streets is not a feasible option in the short term due to the high costs associated with this measure.
Predictions of Daily Horizontal Solar Radiation for Rural Development: The Case of Mubi Town, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Raji Luqman , Amusat Ramoni Olawale , Anjorin Olufemi Jacob , Idris Mohammed Hassan , Issa Abdul-jeleel Kehinde
Published: February 2021

The solar radiation which is produced by the sun has created interests for the renewable researchers in the area of solar technology to make environment friendly and develop communities through this abundant energy potential. This study developed a model of Daily Horizontal Solar Radiation (DHSR) for Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria. The present study data were obtained from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in year 2017. The sought data were air temperature and Relative Humidity which were used as the input parameters and DHSR used as output. Mathematical Model of DHSR of the study area was generated through the Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) analysis that was done in the Microsoft World Excel. Results of the research were validated using statistical tools of Mean Square Error and Correlation Coefficient given 1.61 and 0.95 respectively. Consequently, it was concluded that MLR Model can be considered as a substitute for evaluating the Actual DHSR for weather condition data of Mubi. Therefore, this finding is significant to the development of the socio-economic activities of the Mubi Town. Based on this finding it was recommended that the behavious of MLR Model should be tested in other locations across the Northeast, Nigeria.