bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of HCAP-PC to Enhance Process Efficiency for Age-Hardened Aluminum Alloys Based on Grey Relational Analysis
Authors: He Min , Wang Qili , Yang Feng , Shi Duanhu
Published: November 2020

A multi-pass equal-channel angular pressing (helical channel angular pressing-parallel channel, HCAP-PC) is proposed to enhance process efficiency and avoid plastic deformation damage during the preparation of ultrafine-grained age hardened aluminum alloys. Multiple shear and twist deformations are provided at the single extrusion channel. The channel parameters were optimized by using grey relational analysis (GRA). An orthogonal L16-4-5 test array containing five factors (ψ, ϕ, γ, m and the length of L1 section) and four levels was collected to investigate the influence of channel parameters on the effective strain, the effective stress, the amount of damage and the deformation homogeneity coefficients. Based on the GRA, the grey relational coefficients and the grey relational grades were calculated to report the significant channel parameters which affect the extrusion quality and efficiency. Furthermore, according to the results of segregated grey relational grades, the contribution orders from high to low were listed as ψ, ϕ, γ, m and L1. The extrusion experiments were carried out with aluminum alloy 2024 after solid solution treatment and at the HCAP-PC die with geometry of ψ 20°, ϕ 90°, γ 73°, m 1.35 and 1d. The ultrafine-grained age hardened aluminum alloys were prepared and the process time was decreased to less than 120 min.
The Optimum Electrolyte Parameters in the Application of High Current Density Silver Electrorefining
Authors: Aji Arif T. , Aromaa Jari , Lundström Mari
Published: November 2020

Increasing silver production rate has been a challenge for the existing refining facilities. The application of high current density (HCD) as one of the possible solutions to increase the process throughput is also expected to reduce both energy consumption and process inventory. From the recently-developed models of silver electrorefining, this study simulated the optimum electrolyte parameters to optimize the specific energy consumption (SEC) and the silver inventory in the electrolyte for an HCD application. It was found that by using [Cu2+] in electrolyte, both objectives can be achieved. The suggested optimum composition range from this study was [Ag+] 100–150 g/dm3, [HNO3] 5 g/dm3, and [Cu2+] 50–75 g/dm3. HCD application (1000 A/m2) in these electrolyte conditions result in cell voltage of 2.7–3.2 V and SEC of 0.60–1.01 kWh/kg, with silver inventory in electrolyte of 26–39 kg silver for 100 kg per day basis. The corresponding figures for the conventional process were 1.5–2.8 V, 0.44–0.76 kWh/kg, and 15.54–194.25 kg, in respective order. These results show that, while HCD increases SEC by app. 30%, the improvement provides a significant smaller footprint as a result of a more compact of process. Thus, applying HCD in silver electrorefining offers the best solution in increasing production capacity and process efficiency.
Highly Enhanced Hot Ductility Performance of Advanced SA508-4N RPV Steel by Trace Impurity Phosphorus and Rare Earth Cerium
Authors: Guo Yu , Zhao Yu , Song Shenhua
Published: November 2020

Advanced SA508-4N RPV steel samples, unadded, P-added, and P+Ce-added, are investigated on their hot ductility behavior. Hot tensile tests are carried out in the temperature range of 750 to 1000 °C through a Gleeble 1500D machine. It is demonstrated that the deformation temperatures of all the three steels are located in the austenite single-phase region. There is no ductility trough present for the P+Ce-added steel, but the unadded one exhibits a deep ductility trough. The reduction of area (RA) of the former is always higher than 75% and increases with rising temperature until reaching ~95% at 900 °C or above, whereas the lowest RA value of the latter is only ~50% at 850 °C. Microanalysis indicates that the grain boundary segregation of P and Ce takes place in the tested P+Ce-added steel. This may restrain the boundary sliding so as to improve the hot ductility behavior of the steel. Furthermore, the addition of P and Ce is able to facilitate the occurrence of the dynamic recrystallization (DR) of the steel, lowering the initial temperature of DR from ~900 to ~850 °C and thereby enhancing the hot ductility performance. Consequently, the combined addition of P and Ce can significantly improve the hot ductility of SA508-4N RPV steel, thereby improving its continuous casting performance and hot workability.
Flow Stress Curve Modification and Constitutive Model of 20CrMoA Steel during Warm Deformation
Authors: Xu Sheng , Shu Xuedao , Li Shuxin , Chen Ji
Published: November 2020

The warm deformation behavior of 20CrMoA steel at the temperature of 873–1123 K and the strain rate of 0.01−10 s−1 was investigated to obtain its processing property and optimum processing parameters. The true stress-true strain curves showed that flow stress reaches the peak rapidly, followed by slow decrease till reaching a steady state. This suggests a flow softening of dynamic recovery. The stress dropped with increasing deformation temperature and decreasing strain rate. The reduction became more distinct at lower temperature and higher strain rate due to flow softening caused by deformation heat. In the temperature range of 873–973 K, the deformation of 20CrMoA steel was more sensitive to temperature, and the average decline rate of steady stress was 6.9 times larger than that in the temperature range of 1023–1123 K. After modifying the stress curves, a constitutive model was developed for different deformation temperature ranges based on modified curves. The model was in good agreement with the experimental results.
A Systematic Review of Metal Oxide Applications for Energy and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Danish Mir Sayed Shah , Bhattacharya Arnab , Stepanova Diana , Mikhaylov Alexey , Grilli Maria Luisa , Khosravy Mahdi , Senjyu Tomonobu
Published: November 2020

Energy is the fundamental requirement of all physical, chemical, and biological processes which are utilized for better living standards. The toll that the process of development takes on the environment and economic activity is evident from the arising concerns about sustaining the industrialization that has happened in the last centuries. The increase in carbon footprint and the large-scale pollution caused by industrialization has led researchers to think of new ways to sustain the developmental activities, whilst simultaneously minimizing the harming effects on the enviroment. Therefore, decarbonization strategies have become an important factor in industrial expansion, along with the invention of new catalytic methods for carrying out non-thermal reactions, energy storage methods and environmental remediation through the removal or breakdown of harmful chemicals released during manufacturing processes. The present article discusses the structural features and photocatalytic applications of a variety of metal oxide-based materials. Moreover, the practical applicability of these materials is also discussed, as well as the transition of production to an industrial scale. Consequently, this study deals with a concise framework to link metal oxide application options within energy, environmental and economic sustainability, exploring the footprint analysis as well.
Tensile and Fatigue Analysis Based on Microstructure and Strain Distribution for 7075 Aluminum FSW Joints
Authors: Sun Guoqin , Wei Xinhai , Shang Deguang , Chen Shujun , Long Lianchun , Han Xiuquan
Published: November 2020

In order to study on tensile and fatigue fracture mechanism of friction stir welded (FSW) joints, the tensile and fatigue behavior of FSW joints are studied based on the microstructure and strain distribution. The large plastic deformation and fracture occurred in the thermo-mechanically affected zone (TMAZ) on retreating side in tension tests. High contents of shear texture and small angle grain boundary reduce the tensile mechanical property of TMAZ material. The fatigue weak area for FSW joints is affected by the loading condition. The strain concentration in the welded nugget zone (WNZ) and base material makes the fatigue fracture liable to happen in these areas for the FSW joints under the stress ratios of 0.1 and −0.3. When the fracture occurred in WNZ, the crack initiation mainly occurred in clusters of hardened particles, while when the fracture happened in base material, the crack initiation mainly occurred near the pit. The crack in WNZ propagated in an intergranular pattern and the crack in the other areas extended in a transgranular mode, leading to a higher crack growth rate of WNZ than of other regions.
Evaluation of Stationary Creep Rate in Heat-Affected Zone of Martensitic 9–12% Cr Steels
Authors: Kafexhiu Fevzi , Burja Jaka
Published: November 2020

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the contribution of distinct regions of the simulated heat-affected zone (HAZ) to the overall creep behavior of welded joints in the X20 and P91 steels. The HAZ was simulated by means of dilatometry at four peak temperatures (900, 1000, 1200, and 1350 °C) with a consequent tempering at 650 °C. Microstructure features of the four simulated HAZ regions including precipitates, prior austenite grains, and subgrains were quantified by means of electron microscopy. The quantified parameters and the measured hardness were used in three physical models for evaluation of the stationary creep rate (ε˙ at 170 MPa and 580 °C. The resulting ε˙ values fall within the range 10−8–10−7 s−1, being in good agreement with the experimental data with a similar thermal history, but an order of magnitude lower than the measured values for the parent metal of the studied steels (10−7–10−6 s−1). Depending on the model utilized, their output can be linearly related to hardness, subgrain size, or interparticle spacing. The model relating ε˙ to hardness was the most consistent one in prediction, being always lower for higher peak temperatures.
Hydrogen Assisted Fracture of 30MnB5 High Strength Steel: A Case Study
Authors: Artola Garikoitz , Aldazabal Javier
Published: November 2020

When steel components fail in service due to the intervention of hydrogen assisted cracking, discussion of the root cause arises. The failure is frequently blamed on component design, working conditions, the manufacturing process, or the raw material. This work studies the influence of quench and tempering and hot-dip galvanizing on the hydrogen embrittlement behavior of a high strength steel. Slow strain rate tensile testing has been employed to assess this influence. Two sets of specimens have been tested, both in air and immersed in synthetic seawater, at three process steps: in the delivery condition of the raw material, after heat treatment and after heat treatment plus hot-dip galvanizing. One of the specimen sets has been tested without further manipulation and the other set has been tested after applying a hydrogen effusion treatment. The outcome, for this case study, is that fracture risk issues only arise due to hydrogen re-embrittlement in wet service.
Microstructural Changes and Strengthening of Austenitic Stainless Steels during Rolling at 473 K
Authors: Odnobokova Marina , Belyakov Andrey , Enikeev Nariman , Kaibyshev Rustam , Valiev Ruslan Z.
Published: November 2020

The microstructural changes in 304L and 316L austenitic stainless steels during plate rolling with 95% rolling reduction at a temperature of 473 K and their effect on strengthening were studied. The microstructure evolution was associated with deformation twinning and microshear banding. The latter ones involved ultrafine crystallites, which rapidly evolved in strain-induced ultrafine austenite grains as a result of fast increase in misorientations between them. Besides the ultrafine austenite crystallite evolution, the microshear bands assisted local appearance of deformation martensite, which attained about 25 vol.% and 3 vol.% at total strain of 3 in 304L and 316L steels, respectively. Both the microshear banding and the martensitic transformation promoted the formation of ultrafine grains with a size of less than 1 µm. The strain dependence of the ultrafine grain fraction obeyed a modified Johnson-Mehl-Avrami-Kolmogorov function. The deformation grain size and dislocation density that develop during rolling could also be expressed by exponential functions of true strain. Incorporating the revealed relationships between the strain and the microstructural parameters into modified Hall–Petch-type equation, unique expression for the yield strength of processed steels was obtained. The dislocation strengthening was the largest contributor to the strength, especially at small to medium strains, although grain size strengthening increased during rolling approaching that from dislocations at large strains.
Bioprospecting for Novel Halophilic and Halotolerant Sources of Hydrolytic Enzymes in Brackish, Saline and Hypersaline Lakes of Romania
Authors: Ruginescu Robert , Gomoiu Ioana , Popescu Octavian , Cojoc Roxana , Neagu Simona , Lucaci Ioana , Batrinescu-Moteau Costin , Enache Madalin
Published: November 2020

Halophilic and halotolerant microorganisms represent promising sources of salt-tolerant enzymes that could be used in various biotechnological processes where high salt concentrations would otherwise inhibit enzymatic transformations. Considering the current need for more efficient biocatalysts, the present study aimed to explore the microbial diversity of five under- or uninvestigated salty lakes in Romania for novel sources of hydrolytic enzymes. Bacteria, archaea and fungi were obtained by culture-based approaches and screened for the production of six hydrolases (protease, lipase, amylase, cellulase, xylanase and pectinase) using agar plate-based assays. Moreover, the phylogeny of bacterial and archaeal isolates was studied through molecular methods. From a total of 244 microbial isolates, 182 (74.6%) were represented by bacteria, 22 (9%) by archaea, and 40 (16.4%) by fungi. While most bacteria synthesized protease and lipase, the most frequent hydrolase produced by fungi was pectinase. The archaeal isolates had limited hydrolytic activity, being able to produce only amylase and cellulase. Among the taxonomically identified isolates, the best hydrolytic activities were observed in halotolerant bacteria belonging to the genus Bacillus and in extremely halophilic archaea of the genera Haloterrigena and Halostagnicola. Therefore, the present study highlights that the investigated lakes harbor various promising species of microorganisms able to produce industrially valuable enzymes.
How Capsular Exopolysaccharides Affect Cell Surface Properties of Lactic Acid Bacteria
Authors: Nachtigall Carsten , Vogel Cordula , Rohm Harald , Jaros Doris
Published: November 2020

Some lactic acid bacteria are able to produce exopolysaccharides that, based on localization, can be distinguished in free and capsular or cell-bound exopolysaccharides (CPS). Up to now, the former were the focus of current research, mainly because of the technofunctional benefits they exhibit on fermented dairy products. On the other hand, CPS affect the surface properties of bacteria cells and thus also the textural properties of fermented foods, but data are very scarce. As the cell surface properties are strongly strain dependent, we present a new approach to investigate the impact of CPS on cell surface hydrophobicity and moisture load. CPS positive and negative Streptococcus thermophilus and Weissella cibaria were subjected to ultrasonication suitable to detach CPS without cell damage. The success of the method was verified by scanning electron and light microscopy as well as by cultivation experiments. Before applying ultrasonication cells with CPS exhibiting an increased hydrophilic character, enhanced moisture load, and faster water adsorption compared to the cells after CPS removal, emphasizing the importance of CPS on the textural properties of fermented products. The ultrasonic treatment did not alter the cell surface properties of the CPS negative strains.
The Kinetics of Manganese Sorption on Ukrainian Tuff and Basalt—Order and Diffusion Models Analysis
Authors: Reczek Lidia , Michel Magdalena M. , Trach Yuliia , Siwiec Tadeusz , Tytkowska-Owerko Marta
Published: November 2020

The study aimed to determine the nature of the kinetics of the manganese sorption process on Ukrainian tuff and basalt at different temperatures characteristic of the natural water environment. The scope of the research included manganese sorption kinetic test on natural mineral sorbents at temperatures of 10, 17.5 and 25 °C in slightly acidic conditions. Sorption (pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and Elovich models) and diffusion kinetic models (liquid film diffusion and intraparticle diffusion) were used in the analysis of test results. The manganese sorption process on both tuff and basalt proceeded quickly. The dynamic equilibrium state of manganese sorption settled after 35 and 45 min on tuff and basalt respectively. Although the process took place in a slightly acidic environment and below pHPZC of the sorbents, possible electrostatic repulsion did not inhibit the removal of Mn. The Mn sorption on both materials followed the PSO kinetics model. Based on the diffusion kinetic models, it was determined that Mn sorption process on both materials was influenced by diffusion through the boundary layer and intraparticle diffusion. The differences in removal efficiency and rate of Mn sorption in the temperature range of 10–25 °C were not found.
Structure Analysis of Natural Wangdaodeite—LiNbO3-Type FeTiO3
Authors: Tschauner Oliver , Ma Chi , Newville Matthew G. , Lanzirotti Antonio
Published: November 2020

This paper reports the first structure refinement of natural wangdaodeite, LiNbO3-type FeTiO3 from the Ries impact structure. Wangdaodeite occurs together with recrystallized ilmenite clasts in shock melt veins which have experienced peak shock pressures of between 17 and 22 GPa. Comparison of natural and synthetic wangdaodeite points toward a correlation between the distortion of ferrate- and titanate-polyhedra and the c/a ratio of the unit cell. The Raman spectrum of wangdaodeite is calculated based on the refined structure. Comparison to the reported spectrum of the type-material shows that the Raman peak at 738–740 cm−1 is indicative for this phase, whereas other features in type-wangdaodeite are tentatively assigned to disordered ilmenite.
A High Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency Observed in an Irish South East Asian Population: A Cross-Sectional Observation Study
Authors: Laird Eamon , Walsh James Bernard , Lanham-New Susan , O’Sullivan Maria , Kenny Rose Anne , Scully Helena , Crowley Vivion , Healy Martin
Published: November 2020

At northern latitudes, non-ethnic population groups can be at an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency (defined as a 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] status ≤30 nmol/L). The vitamin D status of ethnic minority groups has been examined both in UK and European populations, but not in the Irish context. The aim of this study is to assess the vitamin D status from a selection of the Dublin population of South East Asian descent. A search was conducted, using the laboratory information system of St James’s Hospital, Dublin, for vitamin D requests by General practitioners. From 2013 to 2016, 186 participants were identified and 25(OH)D analysis was quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS). Overall, the median age was 32 years, 51% were male, and the 25(OH)D concentration ranged from 10 to 154 nmol/L. In total, 66.7% of the total sample were vitamin D deficient and 6.7% had a 25(OH)D status greater than 50 nmol/L (the 25(OH)D concentration defined by the EU as ‘sufficient’). Females had a significantly higher 25(OH)D concentration than males (25.0 vs. 18.0 nmol/L; p = 0.001) but both groups had a significant proportion with deficient status (56% and 76.8%, respectively). Seasonal variation of 25(OH)D was not evident while high rates of deficiency were also observed in those aged <18 years and >50 years. Given the importance of vitamin D for health, this sub-population could be at a significantly increased risk of rickets, impaired bone metabolism, and osteoporosis. In addition, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with several non-bone related conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Currently, there is no unique vitamin D intake or vitamin D status maintenance guidelines recommended for adults of non-Irish descent; this needs to be considered by the relevant public health bodies in Ireland.
The Flavonol Isoquercitrin Promotes Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis in SK-Mel-2 Melanoma Cell via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway
Authors: Won Yeong-Seon , Kim Jeong-Ho , Lizardo Rona Camille M. , Min Hye-Ji , Cho Hyun-Dong , Hong Seong-Min , Seo Kwon-Il
Published: November 2020

Isoquercitrin (IQ), a major flavonol present in Prunus mume fruit, has gained much attention in recent studies because of its superior bioavailability and physiological effects. In this study, the anti-cancer mechanism of IQ against human melanoma, particularly its effect on the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, was investigated. Treatment with IQ at 25 μM concentration effectively inhibited the proliferation of SK-MEL-2 skin cancer cells while the same concentration did not exhibit cytotoxicity against human keratinocytes HaCaT. Morphological analysis and clonogenic assay also showed that IQ can alter the growth and long-term survival of SK-MEL-2 cells. IQ also induced apoptosis in the melanoma cells as manifested in the nuclear morphology changes, DNA fragmentation, increase in the apoptosis rate (17.69% at 25 μM) and accumulation of sub-G1 cell cycle phase population (19.55% at 25 μM). Western blot analysis revealed the involvement of the mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway in the anti-cancer property of IQ. Treatment with IQ resulted in the decrease in the levels of procaspase-8 and -9, and Bcl-2 protein, and an increase in the expression of cleaved PARP and Bax. Moreover, AIF and Endo G protein expression increased, indicating a caspase-independent mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. The anti-proliferative activity of IQ against SK-MEL-2 can also be attributed to the downregulation of the PI3K/AktmTOR signaling pathway. These findings showed that IQ can be developed into a chemopreventive therapeutic agent against the melanoma cells.
Eating Behavior, Physical Activity and Exercise Training: A Randomized Controlled Trial in Young Healthy Adults
Authors: Martinez-Avila Wendy D. , Sanchez-Delgado Guillermo , Acosta Francisco M. , Jurado-Fasoli Lucas , Oustric Pauline , Labayen Idoia , Blundell John E. , Ruiz Jonatan R.
Published: November 2020

Regular physical activity (PA) is an important part of the treatment of several medical conditions, including overweight and obesity, in which there may be a weakened appetite control. Eating behaviour traits influence weight control and may be different in active and sedentary subjects. This paper reports the relationships between the time spent in sedentary behaviour and physical activity (PA) of different intensity, and eating behaviour traits in young, healthy adults. Additionally, it reports the results of a six-month-long, randomized, controlled trial to examine the effect of an exercise intervention on eating behaviour traits. A total of 139 young (22.06 ± 2.26 years) healthy adults (68.35% women) with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 24.95 ± 4.57 kg/m2 were enrolled. Baseline assessments of habitual PA were made using wrist-worn triaxial accelerometers; eating behaviour traits were examined via the self-reported questionnaires: Binge Eating, Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire-R18 and Control of Eating Questionnaire. The subjects were then randomly assigned to one of three groups: control (usual lifestyle), moderate-intensity exercise (aerobic and resistance training 3¨C4 days/week at a heart rate equivalent to 60% of the heart rate reserve (HRres) for the aerobic component, and at 50% of the 1 repetition maximum (RM) for the resistance component), or vigorous-intensity exercise (the same training but at 80% HRres for half of the aerobic training, and 70% RM for the resistance training). At baseline, sedentary behaviour was inversely associated with binge eating (r = −0.181, p < 0.05) and with uncontrolled eating (r = −0.286, p = 0.001). Moderate PA (MPA) was inversely associated with craving control (r = −0.188, p < 0.05). Moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) was directly associated with binge eating (r = 0.302, p < 0.001) and uncontrolled eating (r = 0.346, p < 0.001), and inversely associated with craving control (r = −0.170, p < 0.015). Overall, PA was directly associated with binge eating (r = 0.275, p = 0.001), uncontrolled eating (r = 0.321, p < 0.001) and emotional eating (r = 0.204, p < 0.05). Additionally, only emotional eating was modified by the intervention, increasing in the vigorous-intensity exercise group (p < 0.05). In summary, we observed that time spent in sedentary behaviour/PA of different intensity is associated with eating behaviour traits, especially binge eating in young adults. In contrast, the six-month exercise intervention did not lead to appreciable changes in eating behaviour traits.
Wasted Children and Wasted Time: A Challenge to Meeting the Nutrition Sustainable Development Goals with a High Economic Impact to Ethiopia
Authors: Laillou Arnaud , Baye Kaleab , Meseret Zelalem , Darsene Hiwot , Rashid Abdulai , Chitekwe Stanley
Published: November 2020

Despite some progress in the reduction of the prevalence of child wasting in Ethiopia, the pace of progress has been slow. Despite millions of dollars being spent on the treatment of wasting every year, the increased frequency and magnitude of environmental and anthropogenic shocks has halted progress. This study aimed to present the trends of child wasting in Ethiopia and estimate the economic losses related to the slow progress towards meeting the sustainable development goal (SDG) targets. Weather shocks and civil unrest between 2015 and 2018 have halted progress. We used a “consequence model” to apply the coefficient risk–deficit on economic losses established in the global scientific literature to the Ethiopian health, demographic, and economic data to estimate economic losses related to child wasting. The impact of wasting on the national economy of Ethiopia is estimated to be 157.8–230.2 million United States dollars (USD), annually. The greatest contributor to the economic burden (43.5–63.5% of the burden depending on the discount rate) is the cost of supplies and human resources to treat wasting. To reach the 2030 SDGs, Ethiopia should increase its annual average reduction rate (AARR) in the numbers of child (<59 months) wasting from 0.1% to 5.4%. This will avert the wasting in 7.9 million cases and prevent additional economic costs of up to 803.7 million USD over the next decade. Increasing the reach of therapeutic interventions, but also identifying and implementing wasting prevention interventions, will be critical if the SDG targets are to be met and the opportunity of the children to thrive is not to be wasted.
Decrease in Mucosal IL17A, IFNγ and IL10 Expressions in Active Crohn’s Disease Patients Treated with High-Dose Vitamin D Alone or Combined with Infliximab
Authors: Bendix Mia , Dige Anders , Jørgensen Søren Peter , Dahlerup Jens Frederik , Bibby Bo Martin , Deleuran Bent , Agnholt Jørgen
Published: November 2020

Background: Vitamin D treatment may reduce Crohn’s disease (CD) activity by modulating the mucosal immune function. We investigated if high-dose vitamin D +/− infliximab modulated the mucosal cytokine expression in active CD. Methods: Forty CD patients were randomized into: infliximab + vitamin D; infliximab + placebo-vitamin D; placebo-infliximab + vitamin D or placebo-infliximab + placebo-vitamin D. Infliximab (5 mg/kg) and placebo-infliximab were administered at weeks 0, 2 and 6. Oral vitamin D was administered as bolus 200,000 international units (IU) per week 0 followed by 20,000 IU/day for 7 weeks or placebo. Endoscopy with biopsies was performed at weeks 0 and 7 where endoscopic activity was measured and mucosal mRNA cytokine expression was examined. C-reactive protein (CRP), fecal calprotectin and Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI) were measured at weeks 0, 2 and 6. Results: High-dose vitamin D treatment alone and combined with infliximab decreased the IL17A, IFNγ and IL10 expression. High-dose vitamin D alone did not significantly decrease the disease activity, CRP or calprotectin. Combined infliximab and vitamin D treatment was not clinically significantly superior to monotherapy with infliximab. Conclusions: High-dose vitamin D as monotherapy and combined with infliximab decreases IL17A, IFNγ and IL-10 expression in mucosa within treatment groups. This did not induce a statistically significant decreased disease activity. EudraCT no.2013-000971-34.
Implementation of WHO Recommended Policies and Interventions on Healthy Diet in the Countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region: From Policy to Action
Authors: Al-Jawaldeh Ayoub , Hammerich Asmus , Doggui Radhouene , Engesveen Kaia , Lang Krista , McColl Karen
Published: November 2020

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for almost two-thirds of the deaths in the 22 countries and territories of the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region and unhealthy diets are a major contributor. Prevalence of overweight and obesity has increased among adults, adolescents and older children in recent decades. Among countries with the highest prevalence there are signs that the increase is slowing down or even that prevalence is declining. There has been no increase in the prevalence rate in younger children, although the absolute number of children under five years affected by overweight has increased. This review summarizes prevalence data and examines current implementation of regulatory, fiscal and voluntary measures to promote healthy diet across the Region. The last decade has seen a step up in such action. Ten of the Region’s countries have policies relating to trans-fatty acids and they are increasingly implementing specific regulatory measures. Thirteen countries had fully or partially implemented national salt reduction policies by 2019. Only four countries had adopted policies relating to aspects of marketing food to children by 2019, and concrete action in this area is still lacking. Eight countries have introduced taxes—sometimes at a rate of 50%—on carbonated or sugar-sweetened beverages. In order to meet the agreed global and regional goals relating to nutrition and diet-related NCDs, countries will need to build on this progress and scale up action across the Region while intensifying efforts in areas where concrete action is lacking.
A Rare Paronychia with Superinfection with Prevotella bivia and Staphylococcus haemolyticus: The Importance of Early Microbiological Diagnosis
Authors: Grande-Del-Arco Jessica , Jimenez-Cristino María Dolores , García-de-la-Peña Raquel , Fernández-Espejo Emilio , Córdoba-Fernández Antonio
Published: November 2020

Prevotella bivia is an anaerobic, gram-negative bacillus which naturally thrives in the human vagina, and is usually related to vaginal tract infections. However, this microorganism can also cause infections in other body locations. Infections with Prevotella bivia are frequently severe due to the risk of osteomyelitis and the lack of good protocols for adequate therapeutic management. Staphylococcus haemolyticus infection is one of the most frequent etiological factors of nosocomial infections, which hasthe ability to acquire multiple resistance against antimicrobial agents. We report a rare case of foot and hand paronychia with superinfection of Prevotella bivia and Staphylococcus haemolyticus. We highlight the importance of early microbiological diagnosis, and proper therapeutic management to avoid the risk of complications and the development of bacterial resistance to antibiotics.
Genome-Wide Identification of WRKY Genes in Artemisia annua: Characterization of a Putative Ortholog of AtWRKY40
Authors: De Paolis Angelo , Caretto Sofia , Quarta Angela , Di Sansebastiano Gian-Pietro , Sbrocca Irene , Mita Giovanni , Frugis Giovanna
Published: November 2020

Artemisia annua L. is well-known as the plant source of artemisinin, a sesquiterpene lactone with effective antimalarial activity. Here, a putative ortholog of the Arabidopsis thaliana WRKY40 transcription factor (TF) was isolated via reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and rapid amplification of cDNA ends in A. annua and named AaWRKY40. A putative nuclear localization domain was identified in silico and experimentally confirmed by using protoplasts of A. annua transiently transformed with AaWRKY40-GFP. A genome-wide analysis identified 122 WRKY genes in A. annua, and a manually curated database was obtained. The deduced proteins were categorized into the major WRKY groups, with group IIa containing eight WRKY members including AaWRKY40. Protein motifs, gene structure, and promoter regions of group IIa WRKY TFs of A. annua were characterized. The promoter region of AaWRKY group IIa genes contained several abiotic stress cis-acting regulatory elements, among which a highly conserved W-box motif was identified. Expression analysis of AaWRKY40 compared to AaWRKY1 in A. annua cell cultures treated with methyl jasmonate known to enhance artemisinin production, suggested a possible involvement of AaWRKY40 in terpenoid metabolism. Further investigation is necessary to study the role of AaWRKY40 and possible interactions with other TFs in A. annua.
Essential Oils of Alpinia nantoensis Retard Forskolin-Induced Melanogenesis via ERK1/2-Mediated Proteasomal Degradation of MITF
Authors: Kumar K. J. Senthil , Vani M. Gokila , Wu Pei-Chen , Lee Hui-Ju , Tseng Yen-Hsueh , Wang Sheng-Yang
Published: November 2020

The anti-melanogenic activity of essential oils of Alpinia nantoensis and their bioactive ingredients were investigated in vitro. Treatment with leaf (LEO) and rhizome (REO) essential oils of A. nantoensis, significantly reduced forskolin-induced melanin production followed by down-regulation of tyrosinase (TYR) and tyrosinase related protein-1 (TRP-1) expression at both transcriptional and translational levels. Further studies revealed that down-regulation TYR and TRP-1 were caused by LEO/REO-mediated suppression of Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), as evidenced by reduced nuclear translocation of MITF. Also, we found that LEO/REO induce the sustained activation of ERK1/2, which facilitate subsequent proteasomal degradation of MITF, as confirmed by that LEO/REO failed to inhibits MITF activity in ERK1/2 inhibitor treated cells. In addition, a significant increase of ubiquitinated MITF was observed after treatment with LEO and REO. Furthermore, the chemical composition of LEO and REO were characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) resulted that camphor, camphene, α-pinene, β-pinene, isoborneol and D-limonene were the major compounds in both LEO and REO. Further studies revealed that α-pinene and D-limonene were the active components responsible for the anti-melanogenic properties of LEO and REO. Based on the results, this study provided a strong evidence that LEO and REO could be promising natural sources for the development of novel skin-whitening agents for the cosmetic purposes.
Genome-Wide Association Analysis Identifies Resistance Loci for Bacterial Leaf Streak Resistance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Sattayachiti Wannapa , Wanchana Samart , Arikit Siwaret , Nubankoh Phakchana , Patarapuwadol Sujin , Vanavichit Apichart , Darwell Clive T. , Toojinda Theerayut
Published: November 2020

Bacterial leaf streak (BLS) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) is one of the most devastating diseases in rice production areas, especially in humid tropical and subtropical zones throughout Asia and worldwide. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) analysis conducted on a collection of 236 diverse rice accessions, mainly indica varieties, identified 12 quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9 and 11, conferring resistance to five representative isolates of Thai Xoc. Of these, five QTLs conferred resistance to more than one Xoc isolates. Two QTLs, qBLS5.1 and qBLS2.3, were considered promising QTLs for broad-spectrum resistance to BLS. The xa5 gene was proposed as a potential candidate gene for qBLS5.1 and three genes, encoding pectinesterase inhibitor (OsPEI), eukaryotic zinc-binding protein (OsRAR1), and NDP epimerase function, were proposed as candidate genes for qBLS2.3. Results from this study provide an insight into the potential QTLs and candidate genes for BLS resistance in rice. The recessive xa5 gene is suggested as a potential candidate for strong influence on broad-spectrum resistance and as a focal target in rice breeding programs for BLS resistance.
Improving Ammonium Sorption of Bayah Natural Zeolites by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Kurniawan Teguh , Bahri Saiful , Diyanah Anita , Milenia Natasya D. , Nuryoto Nuryoto , Faungnawakij Kajornsak , Thongratkaew Sutarat , Roil Bilad Muhammad , Huda Nurul
Published: November 2020

Natural zeolites are easily found and abundant in Indonesia. The natural zeolites are low-cost minerals; however, their ammonium sorption is poor. A hydrothermal method was applied to improve the ammonium sorption. Hydrothermal treatment times were varied 8, 24, and 32 h. The parent and hydrothermal treated samples were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopes (FE-SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and nitrogen physisorption. Ammonium adsorption was performed using a batch reactor to evaluate the adsorption performance of the prepared zeolite samples. The 8 h hydrothermal (HT 8 h) treated zeolites showed the highest ammonium removal percentage among others. The XRD analysis of HT 8 h shows a higher crystallinity of mordenite and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) model shows a surface area of 105 m2/g, much larger as compared to the parent with a surface area of 19 m2/g. Various kinetic and isotherms models were also studied on the parent and HT 8 h samples. The intraparticle equation showed the most accurate model for the kinetic data and the Freundlich equation showed the most accurate model for the isotherm of the experimental data. In terms of ammonium removal efficiency, hydrothermally treated Bayah mordenite compares favorably with treated mordenite from other locations despite that clinoptilolite provides higher removal capacities than mordenite.
Responsible Design for Sustainable Innovation: Towards an Extended Design Process
Authors: Hernandez Ricardo J. , Goñi Julian
Published: November 2020

Design as a discipline has changed a lot during the last 50 years. The boundaries have been expanded partially to address the complexity of the problems we are facing nowadays. Areas like sustainable design, inclusive design, codesign, and social design among many more have emerged in response to the failures of the production and consumption system in place. In this context, social, environmental, and cultural trends have affected the way artefacts are designed, but the design process itself remains almost unchanged. In some sense, more criteria beyond economic concerns are now taken into consideration when social and environmental objectives are pursued in the design process, but the process to reach those objectives responds to the same stages and logic as in traditional approaches motivated only by economic aims. We propose in this paper an alternative way to understand and represent the design process, especially oriented to develop innovations that are aligned with the social, environmental, and cultural demands the world is facing now and it will face in the future. A new extended design process that is responsible for the consequences produced by the artefacts designed beyond the delivery of the solutions is proposed.
The Combination of Simultaneous Plasma Treatment with Mg Nanoparticles Deposition Technique for Better Mung Bean Seeds Germination
Authors: Varnagiris Sarunas , Vilimaite Simona , Mikelionyte Ieva , Urbonavicius Marius , Tuckute Simona , Milcius Darius
Published: November 2020

A novel method based on the combination of simultaneous cold plasma treatment with Mg nanoparticles deposition, applied to Mung bean seeds by improving their quality, is presented. The SRIM simulation reveals that only the very top layer of the seeds surface can be altered by the plasma. The experimental analysis indicates surface composition changes with a polar groups formation. These groups initiate the shift of surface characteristics from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. The chemical bond analysis shows the formation of MgO and Mg(OH)2 compounds, which acts as a positive factor for seeds germination and growth. The germination experiments showed a 70% outcome with an average of 73.9 mm sprouts length after 30 min of plasma treatment compared to the initial seeds (40% outcome and 71.3 mm sprouts length).
Portfolio Construction by Using Different Risk Models: A Comparison among Diverse Economic Scenarios
Authors: Hunjra Ahmed Imran , Alawi Suha Mahmoud , Colombage Sisira , Sahito Uroosa , Hanif Mahnoor
Published: November 2020

We aim to construct portfolios by employing different risk models and compare their performance in order to understand their appropriateness for effective portfolio management for investors. Mean variance (MV), semi variance (SV), mean absolute deviation (MaD) and conditional value at risk (CVaR) are considered as risk measures. The price data were extracted from the Pakistan stock exchange, Bombay stock exchange and Dhaka stock exchange under diverse economic conditions such as crisis, recovery and growth. We take the average of GDP of the selected period of each country as a cut-off point to make three economic scenarios. We use 40 stocks from the Pakistan stock exchange, 92 stocks from the Bombay stock exchange and 30 stocks from the Dhaka stock exchange. We compute optimal weights using global minimum variance portfolio (GMVP) for all stocks to construct optimal portfolios and analyze the data by using MV, SV, MaD and CVaR models for each subperiod. We find that CVaR (95%) gives better results in each scenario for all three countries and performance of portfolios is inconsistent in different scenarios.
Multi-Agent Collaborative Path Planning Based on Staying Alive Policy
Authors: Koval Anton , Sharif Mansouri Sina , Nikolakopoulos George
Published: November 2020

Modern mobile robots tend to be used in numerous exploration and search and rescue applications. Essentially they are coordinated by human operators and collaborate with inspection or rescue teams. Over the time, robots became more advanced and capable for various autonomous collaborative scenarios. Recent advances in the field of collaborative exploration and coverage provide different approaches to solve this objective. Thus scope of this article is to present a novel collaborative approach for multi-agent coordination in exploration and coverage of unknown complex indoor environments. Fundamentally, the task of collaborative exploration can be divided into two core components. The principal one is a sensor based exploration scheme that aims to guarantee complete area exploration and coverage. The second core component proposed is a staying alive policy that takes under consideration the battery charge level limitation of the agents. From this perspective the path planner assigns feasible tasks to each of the agents, including the capability of providing reachable, collision free paths. The overall efficacy of the proposed approach was extensively evaluated by multiple simulation results in a complex unknown environments.
Improving the Voltammetric Determination of Hg(II): A Comparison Between Ligand-Modified Glassy Carbon and Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide Electrodes
Authors: Raicopol Matei D. , Pandele Andreea M. , Dascălu Constanţa , Vasile Eugeniu , Hanganu Anamaria , Vasile Gabriela-Geanina , Bugean Ioana Georgiana , Pirvu Cristian , Stanciu Gabriela , Buica George-Octavian
Published: November 2020

A new thiosemicarbazone ligand was immobilized through a Cu(I)-catalyzed click reaction on the surface of glassy carbon (GC) and electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (GC-ERGO) electrodes grafted with phenylethynyl groups. Using the accumulation at open circuit followed by anodic stripping voltammetry, the modified electrodes showed a significant selectivity and sensibility for Hg(II) ions. A detection limit of 7 nM was achieved with the GC modified electrodes. Remarkably, GC-ERGO modified electrodes showed a significantly improved detection limit (0.8 nM), sensitivity, and linear range, which we attribute to an increased number of surface binding sites and better electron transfer properties. Both GC and GC-ERGO modified electrodes proved their applicability for the analysis of real water samples.
Thermal Infrared Sensing for Near Real-Time Data-Driven Fire Detection and Monitoring Systems
Authors: Sousa Maria João , Moutinho Alexandra , Almeida Miguel
Published: November 2020

With the increasing interest in leveraging mobile robotics for fire detection and monitoring arises the need to design recognition technology systems for these extreme environments. This work focuses on evaluating the sensing capabilities and image processing pipeline of thermal imaging sensors for fire detection applications, paving the way for the development of autonomous systems for early warning and monitoring of fire events. The contributions of this work are threefold. First, we overview image processing algorithms used in thermal imaging regarding data compression and image enhancement. Second, we present a method for data-driven thermal imaging analysis designed for fire situation awareness in robotic perception. A study is undertaken to test the behavior of the thermal cameras in controlled fire scenarios, followed by an in-depth analysis of the experimental data, which reveals the inner workings of these sensors. Third, we discuss key takeaways for the integration of thermal cameras in robotic perception pipelines for autonomous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based fire surveillance.
Adaptive Federated IMM Filter for AUV Integrated Navigation Systems
Authors: Lyu Weiwei , Cheng Xianghong , Wang Jinling
Published: November 2020

High accuracy and reliable navigation in the underwater environment is very critical for the operations of autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). This paper proposes an adaptive federated interacting multiple model (IMM) filter, which combines adaptive federated filter and IMM algorithm for AUV in complex underwater environments. Based on the performance of each local system, the information sharing coefficient of the adaptive federated IMM filter is adaptively determined. Meanwhile, the adaptive federated IMM filter designs different models for each local system. When the external disturbances change, the model of each local system can switch in real-time. Furthermore, an AUV integrated navigation system model is constructed, which includes the dynamic model of the system error and the measurement models of strapdown inertial navigation system/Doppler velocity log (SINS/DVL) and SINS/terrain aided navigation (SINS/TAN). The integrated navigation experiments demonstrate that the proposed filter can dramatically improve the accuracy and reliability of the integrated navigation system. Additionally, it has obvious advantages compared with the federated Kalman filter and the adaptive federated Kalman filter.