bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Properties of Concrete Made with Low-Emission Cements CEM II/C-M and CEM VI
Authors: Król Anna , Giergiczny Zbigniew , Kuterasińska-Warwas Justyna
Published: May 2020

The paper presents the composition and properties of low-emission ternary cements: Portland multicomponent cement CEM II/C-M and multicomponent cement CEM VI. In the ternary cements, Portland clinker was replaced at the levels of 40% and 55% with a mixture of the main components such as limestone (LL), granulated blast furnace slag (S) and siliceous fly ash (V). Portland multicomponent cements CEM II/C-M and CEM VI are low-emission binders with CO2 emissions ranging from 340 (CEM VI) kg to 453 (CEM II/C-M) kg per Mg of cement. The results obtained indicate the possibility of a wider use of ground limestone (LL) in cement composition. This is important in the case of limited market availability of fly ash and granulated blast furnace slag. The tests conducted on concrete have shown that the necessary condition for obtaining a high strength class and durability of concrete from CEM II/C-M and CEM VI ternary cements is low water–cement ratio. Durability characteristics of concrete (carbonation susceptibility, chloride ion permeation, frost resistance) made of CEM II/C-M and CEM VI cements were determined after 90 days of hardening. This period of curing reflects the performance properties of the concrete in a more effective way.
Steel Sheets Laser Lap Joint Welding—Process Analysis
Authors: Danielewski Hubert , Skrzypczyk Andrzej
Published: May 2020

This article presents the results of steel-sheet lap-joint-welding using laser beam radiation. The use of a laser beam and keyhole effect for deep material penetration in lap joint welding was presented. Thermodynamic mechanism of laser welding is related to material properties and process parameters. Estimation of welding parameters and joint properties’ analysis was performed through numerical simulation. The article presents a possibility of modeling laser lap-joint welding by using Simufact Welding software based on Marc solver and thermo-mechanical solution. Numerical calculation was performed for surface and conical volumetric heat sources simulating laser absorption and keyhole effect during steel sheet welding. Thermo-mechanical results of fusion zone (FZ), heat-affected zone (HAZ) and phase transformations calculated in numerical simulation were analyzed. The welding parameters for partial sealed joint penetration dedicated for gas piping installations were estimated from the numerical analysis. Low-carbon constructional steel was used for numerical and experimental analyses. A trial joint based on the estimated parameters was prepared by using a CO2 laser. Numerical and experimental results in the form of hardness distributions and weld geometry were compared. Metallographic analysis of the obtained weld was presented, including crystallographic structures and inclusions in the cross section of the joint.
The Corrosion Probability and Flexural Strength of an RC Beam under Chloride Ingress Considering the Randomness of Temperature and Humidity
Authors: Pang Sen , Yu Ming-kai , Zhu Hong-guang , Yi Cheng
Published: May 2020

The load capacity of reinforced concrete structure will decrease by chloride ingress in coastal region. In this paper, the corrosion probability and flexural strength of a typical reinforced concrete beam design under the influence of temperature and humidity was obtained by the Monte Carlo method. The relationship between flexural strength, temperature, relative humidity, and geometric parameters was established. The annual average temperature and relative humidity were treated as random variables together with the geometric size and concrete compressive strength. The corrosion probability and flexural strength in a wave splashing zone, coastal atmospheric zone, and offshore atmospheric zone were calculated. The results show that the corrosion probabilities of the three regions are obviously different. When the standard deviation of temperature is less than 1.5 °C, the temperature can be treated as a constant in the calculation of the concrete cracking probability in the wave splashing zone. A binary logistic regression formula was given to predict whether the randomness of temperature and humidity should be considered in the offshore atmospheric zone. When the standard deviation of the temperature is less than 1 °C, the temperature randomness has no significant effect on the flexural strength of beams in the wave splashing zone. The flexural strength distribution conforms to the normal distribution in the early stage of service and the Weibull distribution after concrete cracking.
Mechanical Behavior of Fine Recycled Concrete Aggregate Concrete with the Mineral Admixtures
Authors: Ju Minkwan , Jeong Jae-Gwon , Palou Martin , Park Kyoungsoo
Published: May 2020

The paper describes the mechanical behavior of fine recycled concrete aggregate (FRCA) concrete according to the mineral admixtures. Three types of the mineral admixtures, i.e., fly ash (FA), ground-granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS), and silica fume (SF), are used and the replacement ratios of FRCA are 50% and 100%. The dosages of the admixtures of FA, GGBS, and SF are determined with the normal dosage (30%, 40%, and 5.0%, respectively) based on the ACI committee reports (No. 232, 233, and 234) and half-normal dosage. The mechanical performance is investigated with the compressive and splitting tensile strength, and elastic modulus. Additionally, the total porosity is measured in natural fine aggregate (NFA) and FRCA 100% replaced specimens by mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) for investigating the relationship with the compressive strength. Based on the experimental test results, the mineral admixtures improve the mechanical performance of FRCA concrete. The effective dosages of FA, GGBS, and SF for FRCA concrete are investigated according to the replacement ratio of the FRCA. In particular, FRCA 100% replaced concrete may be possible to be used for the structural concrete members with the specific dosage of the mineral admixtures. The prediction of the splitting tensile strength and the elastic modulus by the codes or previous formulas exhibits underestimated and overestimated results, respectively. The relationship between the total porosity and the compressive strength of the FRCA concrete should be modified with more experimental tests.
Bioactive Tetracalcium Phosphate Scaffolds Fabricated by Selective Laser Sintering for Bone Regeneration Applications
Authors: Qin Tian , Li Xiaoqian , Long Hui , Bin Shizhen , Xu Yong
Published: May 2020

Tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP), a potential biological scaffold material, has attracted increasing interest for bone regeneration applications due to its good biodegradability and biocompatibility. In this research, three-dimensional porous TTCP scaffolds were manufactured via selective laser sintering (SLS), and an in-depth and meticulous study on the influence of laser power on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TTCP scaffolds was performed. The results showed that the TTCP particles fused together and formed a solid object due to the decrease in the number of micro-pores in the scaffold as the laser power increased from 6 W to 9 W. The maximum compressive strength that the scaffold could withstand and the strength of the fracture toughness were 11.87 ± 0.64 MPa and 1.12 ± 0.1 MPa·m1/2, respectively. When the laser power increased from 9 W to 10 W, the TTCP grains grew abnormally, resulting in diminished mechanical properties. The bioactivity tests showed that the surfaces of the scaffolds were entirely covered by bone-like apatite layers after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) for three days, indicating that the scaffolds exhibit excellent bioactivity. Moreover, cell experiments showed that the TTCP scaffolds had good biocompatibility. This study indicated that SLS-fabricated TTCP scaffolds may be a promising candidate for bone regeneration applications.
Static and Fatigue Behavior of Rubber-Sleeved Stud Shear Connectors as Part of Field-Cast Ultra-High Performance Concrete Connections
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Xu Xiaoqing
Published: May 2020

Field-cast ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) connections are an innovative and prospective solution for combining full-depth precast concrete decks and steel girders. However, previous studies show that the slip capacity of stud shear connectors embedded in UHPC cannot meet the requirements for ductile connectors by Eurocode 4, which can reduce the resistance of steel and concrete composite members. In this study, the rubber-sleeved stud shear connector, which is a composite of ordinary stud and rubber sleeve, was adopted for the field-cast UHPC connections. Push-out tests were conducted to investigate the static and fatigue behavior of the rubber-sleeved stud shear connector as part of field-cast UHPC connections. Results of static tests showed that the rubber-sleeved stud shear connector has sufficient deformation capacity and its slip capacity is 1.5 times that of the ordinary stud shear connector. Compared to ordinary stud shear connectors, UHPC with high strength and stiffness has a relatively small effect on improving the shear strength and stiffness of rubber-sleeve stud shear connectors. Results of fatigue tests showed that the rubber-sleeved stud shear connector in UHPC has similar fatigue behavior to that in normal strength concrete. Though UHPC improves the restraint to the stud deformation, the influence of rubber sleeves is still decisive in determining the fatigue behavior of rubber-sleeve stud shear connectors. In addition, based on the results of strain gauges at stud roots, it was found that the crack initiation process consumes a small proportion of the fatigue life of rubber-sleeved stud shear connectors, which is about 5%.
Characterization of Acid-Aged Biochar and Its Ammonium Adsorption in an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Wang Zhiwen , Li Jie , Zhang Guilong , Zhi Yancai , Yang Dianlin , Lai Xin , Ren Tianzhi
Published: May 2020

According to its characteristics, biochar originating originating from biomass is accepted as a multifunctional carbon material that supports a wide range of applications. With the successfully used in reducing nitrate and adsorbing ammonium, the mechanism of biochar for nitrogen fixation in long-term brought increasing attention. However, there is a lack of analysis of the NH4+-N adsorption capacity of biochar after aging treatments. In this study, four kinds of acid and oxidation treatments were used to simulate biochar aging conditions to determine the adsorption of NH4+-N by biochar under acidic aging conditions. According to the results, acid-aged biochar demonstrated an enhanced maximum NH4+-N adsorption capacity of peanut shell biochar (PBC) from 24.58 to 123.28 mg·g−1 after a H2O2 modification. After the characteristic analysis, the acid aging treatments, unlike normal chemical modification methods, did not significantly change the chemical properties of the biochar, and the functional groups and chemical bonds on the biochar surface were quite similar before and after the acid aging process. The increased NH4+-N sorption ability was mainly related to physical property changes, such as increasing surface area and porosity. During the NH4+ sorption process, the N-containing functional groups on the biochar surface changed from pyrrolic nitrogen to pyridinic nitrogen, which showed that the adsorption on the surface of the aged biochar was mainly chemical adsorption due to the combination of π-π bonds in the sp2 hybrid orbital and a hydrogen bonding effect. Therefore, this research establishes a theoretical basis for the agricultural use of aged biochar.
An Evolutionary Perspective of Virus Propagation
Authors: Tenreiro Machado J. A.
Published: May 2020

This paper presents an evolutionary algorithm that simulates simplified scenarios of the diffusion of an infectious disease within a given population. The proposed evolutionary epidemic diffusion (EED) computational model has a limited number of variables and parameters, but is still able to simulate a variety of configurations that have a good adherence to real-world cases. The use of two space distances and the calculation of spatial 2-dimensional entropy are also examined. Several simulations demonstrate the feasibility of the EED for testing distinct social, logistic and economy risks. The performance of the system dynamics is assessed by several variables and indices. The global information is efficiently condensed and visualized by means of multidimensional scaling.
The SOS Platform: Designing, Tuning and Statistically Benchmarking Optimisation Algorithms
Authors: Caraffini Fabio , Iacca Giovanni
Published: May 2020

We present Stochastic Optimisation Software (SOS), a Java platform facilitating the algorithmic design process and the evaluation of metaheuristic optimisation algorithms. SOS reduces the burden of coding miscellaneous methods for dealing with several bothersome and time-demanding tasks such as parameter tuning, implementation of comparison algorithms and testbed problems, collecting and processing data to display results, measuring algorithmic overhead, etc. SOS provides numerous off-the-shelf methods including: (1) customised implementations of statistical tests, such as the Wilcoxon rank-sum test and the Holm–Bonferroni procedure, for comparing the performances of optimisation algorithms and automatically generating result tables in PDF and LATEX formats; (2) the implementation of an original advanced statistical routine for accurately comparing couples of stochastic optimisation algorithms; (3) the implementation of a novel testbed suite for continuous optimisation, derived from the IEEE CEC 2014 benchmark, allowing for controlled activation of the rotation on each testbed function. Moreover, we briefly comment on the current state of the literature in stochastic optimisation and highlight similarities shared by modern metaheuristics inspired by nature. We argue that the vast majority of these algorithms are simply a reformulation of the same methods and that metaheuristics for optimisation should be simply treated as stochastic processes with less emphasis on the inspiring metaphor behind them.
A Liquidity Shortfall Analysis Framework for the European Banking Sector
Authors: Georgescu Oana-Maria , Laliotis Dimitrios , Leber Miha , Población Javier
Published: May 2020

This paper presents an analytical framework for the identification of vulnerabilities arising from the liquidity and funding profile of banks. It is composed of two pillars—estimation of liquidity needs and the counterbalancing capacity of the total liquid assets—that determine a liquidity surplus or shortfall and the drivers for a range of plausible scenarios. Granular bank-level data on the structure of liabilities, maturation profile, liquid assets quality composition, and asset encumbrance are used for that purpose, also taking into account associated commonality effects. A new liquidity metric is introduced—the distance to liquidity stress indicator (DLSI)—which measures the required stress factor for banks to become illiquid. The novelty of the approach (i.e., taking into account asset encumbrance to determine counterbalancing capacity) provides empirical evidence that asset encumbrance has a significant impact on a bank’s liquidity position, leading to the non-linear behavior of liquidity shortfalls, even in the case of linear stress factors.
Random Homogenization in a Domain with Light Concentrated Masses
Authors: Chechkin Gregory A. , Chechkina Tatiana P.
Published: May 2020

In the paper, we consider an elliptic problem in a domain with singular stochastic perturbation of the density located near the boundary, depending on a small parameter. Using the boundary homogenization methods, we prove the compactness theorem and study the behavior of eigenelements to the initial problem as the small parameter tends to zero.
On the Domain of the Four-Dimensional Sequential Band Matrix in Some Double Sequence Spaces
Authors: Tuğ Orhan , Rakočević Vladimir , Malkowsky Eberhard
Published: May 2020

Let E represent any of the spaces M u , C ϑ ( ϑ = { b , b p , r } ) , and L q ( 0 < q < ∞ ) of bounded, ϑ -convergent, and q-absolutely summable double sequences, respectively, and E ˜ be the domain of the four-dimensional (4D) infinite sequential band matrix B ( r ˜ , s ˜ , t ˜ , u ˜ ) in the double sequence space E, where r ˜ = ( r m ) m = 0 ∞ , s ˜ = ( s m ) m = 0 ∞ , t ˜ = ( t n ) n = 0 ∞ , and u ˜ = ( u n ) n = 0 ∞ are given sequences of real numbers in the set c ∖ c 0 . In this paper, we investigate the double sequence spaces E ˜ . First, we determine some topological properties and prove several inclusion relations under some strict conditions. Then, we examine α -, β ( ϑ ) -, and γ -duals of E ˜ . Finally, we characterize some new classes of 4D matrix mappings related to our new double sequence spaces and conclude the paper with some significant consequences.
On Distance Signless Laplacian Spectral Radius and Distance Signless Laplacian Energy
Authors: Medina Luis , Nina Hans , Trigo Macarena
Published: May 2020

In this article, we find sharp lower bounds for the spectral radius of the distance signless Laplacian matrix of a simple undirected connected graph and we apply these results to obtain sharp upper bounds for the distance signless Laplacian energy graph. The graphs for which those bounds are attained are characterized.
Patent Litigation, Competitive Dynamics, and Stock Market Volatility
Authors: Shih Kuang-Hsun , Yang Fu-Ju , Shih Jhih-Ta , Wang Yi-Hsien
Published: May 2020

Recently, the number of patents of enterprises has been increasing year by year, obviously improving the degree of attention paid to the added value of patents by said enterprises, but also creating patent infringement lawsuits. First, through analysis of the position of competitors, it can be seen that the disclosure of patent infringement litigation information influences the abnormal returns of shareholder wealth. Second, through projecting to competitive dynamics, it could be determined whether expected or actual action are consistent or inconsistent, and whether the stock returns and volatilities are obviously changed. This work utilized event study and GJR-GARCH to discuss the information value of short-term abnormal returns and the long-term effect of stock returns and volatilities of patent infringement lawsuits, respectively. The empirical results of this article highlight the significantly negative short-term abnormal returns of plaintiffs when market commonality between the enterprises was higher. In addition, the cumulative abnormal returns of shareholders were reduced when the resource similarity was higher. Finally, in terms of the corresponding plaintiff enterprises, if the expected theory and the actual strategy were inconsistent, then the return and the risk decreased significantly; however, when the strategy was consistent, the return and the risk increased significantly.
Estimates for the Differences of Certain Positive Linear Operators
Authors: Acu Ana Maria , Hodiş Sever , Rașa Ioan
Published: May 2020

The present paper deals with estimates for differences of certain positive linear operators defined on bounded or unbounded intervals. Our approach involves Baskakov type operators, the kth order Kantorovich modification of the Baskakov operators, the discrete operators associated with Baskakov operators, Meyer–König and Zeller operators and Bleimann–Butzer–Hahn operators. Furthermore, the estimates in quantitative form of the differences of Baskakov operators and their derivatives in terms of first modulus of continuity are obtained.
Could FeNO Predict Asthma in Patients with House Dust Mites Allergic Rhinitis?
Authors: Muntean Ioana Adriana , Bocsan Ioana Corina , Vesa Stefan , Miron Nicolae , Nedelea Irena , Buzoianu Anca Dana , Deleanu Diana
Published: May 2020

Background and Objectives: The evolution of allergic rhinitis to asthma is a part of “atopic march”. The aim of this study was to analyze possible predictive markers for asthma occurrence in patients with allergic rhinitis to house dust mites (HDM). Materials and Methods: Fifty-eight patients with persistent allergic rhinitis (PAR) were included. The clinical, biological evaluation and fractionated exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurement were performed at enrolment. The patients were clinically evaluated after one year to determine asthma occurrence. Results: The severity of rhinitis symptoms, levels of total immunoglobulin E (IgE), ICAM-1, VCAM-1, E-selectin and IL-6, but not IL-8 and TNF-α were higher in patients with allergic rhinitis who developed asthma compared to non-asthmatics, but the differences were not significant to considered them as predictive factors for asthma occurrence. The risk of asthma was independently influenced by patients aged over 30 years ((OR-3.74; CI95% 0.86–16.31; p = 0.07), a duration of allergic rhinitis over 12 months ((OR-4.20; CI95% 0.88–20; p = 0.07) and a basal FeNO over 28 parts per billion (pbb) ((OR-18.68; CI95% 3.79–92.05; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Clinical and biological parameters may predict asthma occurrence in patients with persistent allergic rhinitis to HDM. Adult patients with a longer duration of rhinitis symptoms and a high level of FeNO have a greater risk to develop asthma.
Fatigue Life Assessment of Refill Friction Stir Spot Welded Alclad 7075-T6 Aluminium Alloy Joints
Authors: Kubit Andrzej , Drabczyk Mateusz , Trzepiecinski Tomasz , Bochnowski Wojciech , Kaščák Ľuboš , Slota Jan
Published: May 2020

Refill Friction Stir Spot Welding (RFSSW) shows great potential to be a replacement for single-lap joining techniques such as riveting or resistance spot welding used in the aircraft industry. In this paper, the fatigue behaviour of RFSSW single-lap joints is analysed experimentally in lap-shear specimens of Alclad 7075-T6 aluminium alloy with different thicknesses, i.e., 0.8 mm and 1.6 mm. The joints were tested under low-cycle and high-cycle fatigue tests. Detailed observations of the fatigue fracture characteristics were conducted using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The locations of fatigue failure across the weld, fatigue crack initiation, and propagation behaviour are discussed on the basis of the SEM analysis. The possibility of predicting the propagation of fatigue cracks in RFSSW joints is verified based on Paris’s law. Two fatigue failure modes are observed at different load levels, including shear fracture mode transverse crack growth at high stress-loading conditions and at low load levels, and destruction of the lower sheet due to stretching as a result of low stress-loading conditions. The analysis of SEM micrographs revealed that the presence of aluminium oxides aggravates the inhomogeneity of the material in the weld nugget around its periphery and is a source of crack nucleation. The results of the fatigue crack growth rate predicted by Paris’s law were in good agreement with the experimental results.
Investigation on the Durability of Ti-6Al-4V Alloy Designed in a Harmonic Structure via Powder Metallurgy: Fatigue Behavior and Specimen Size Parameter Issue
Authors: Guennec Benjamin , Ishiguri Takayuki , Kawabata Mie Ota , Kikuchi Shoichi , Ueno Akira , Ameyama Kei
Published: May 2020

In the present work, the four-point bending loading fatigue properties of a heterogeneously distributed grain size microstructure consolidated from Ti-6Al-4V alloy powder are studied. The microstructure involved here, a so-called “harmonic structure”, possesses quasi-spherical large grain regions (“cores”) embedded in a continuous fine grain region (“shell”). Unlike the previous reports dealing with this issue, the effect of the specimen size on the fatigue characteristics is also probed, since two distinct specimen configurations are considered. Furthermore, the obtained experimental data are compared with the corresponding fatigue results derived from homogeneous coarse grain counterparts. Contrary to homogeneous structure material, discrepancies on both the fatigue strength and the fatigue crack initiation aspects are found for the harmonic structure material. Consequently, the present work aims to clarify the underlining phenomena involved in the specimen size effect detected for Ti-6Al-4V designed in the harmonic structure. A less active interface surface between the core and the shell combined with a wider critical volume in the large size specimen should be the main reasons of the fatigue strength discrepancy.
Experimental Investigation of Cutting Vibration during Micro-End-Milling of the Straight Groove
Authors: Ma Lijie , Howard Ian , Pang Minghua , Wang Zhankui , Su Jianxiu
Published: May 2020

Micro-end-milling is a cutting technology that removes redundant material from machined workpieces by small-diameter end mills, and is widely used to manufacture miniature complex parts. During micro-end-milling, the cutting vibration caused by weak tool rigidity and high spindle speed is known as a key factor for decreasing machined quality and accelerating tool failure. This study reports on experiments of micro-end-milling of the straight groove for AISI 1045 steel. The waveform characteristics of acceleration vibration were revealed, the relationship between acceleration and milling parameters were analyzed and two types of relationship models were developed. The results show that, during micro-end-milling of the straight groove, the components of acceleration vibration from largest to smallest are in turn the transverse acceleration αY, the feed acceleration αX and the axial acceleration αZ. Compared with feed velocity vf and axial depth of cut ap, the spindle speed n has the highest influence on cutting vibration. The response surface model of acceleration vibration was shown to have a higher prediction accuracy compared to the power function model and is more suitable for the prediction and control of cutting vibration during micro-end-milling.
New Roles for Two-Component System Response Regulators of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi during Host Cell Interactions
Authors: Murret-Labarthe Claudie , Kerhoas Maud , Dufresne Karine , Daigle France
Published: May 2020

In order to survive external stresses, bacteria need to adapt quickly to changes in their environment. One adaptive mechanism is to coordinate and alter their gene expression by using two-component systems (TCS). TCS are composed of a sensor kinase that activates a transcriptional response regulator by phosphorylation. TCS are involved in motility, virulence, nutrient acquisition, and envelope stress in many bacteria. The pathogenic bacteria Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi (S. Typhi) possess 30 TCSs, is specific to humans, and causes typhoid fever. Here, we have individually deleted each of the 30 response regulators. We have determined their role during interaction with host cells (epithelial cells and macrophages). Deletion of most of the systems (24 out of 30) resulted in a significant change during infection. We have identified 32 new phenotypes associated with TCS of S. Typhi. Some previously known phenotypes associated with TCSs in Salmonella were also confirmed. We have also uncovered phenotypic divergence between Salmonella serovars, as distinct phenotypes between S. Typhi and S. Typhimurium were identified for cpxR. This finding highlights the importance of specifically studying S. Typhi to understand its pathogenesis mechanisms and to develop strategies to potentially reduce typhoid infections.
Revisiting the Metabolic Capabilities of Bifidobacterium longum susbp. longum and Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis from a Glycoside Hydrolase Perspective
Authors: Blanco Guillermo , Ruiz Lorena , Tamés Hector , Ruas-Madiedo Patricia , Fdez-Riverola Florentino , Sánchez Borja , Lourenço Anália , Margolles Abelardo
Published: May 2020

Bifidobacteria are among the most abundant microorganisms inhabiting the intestine of humans and many animals. Within the genus Bifidobacterium, several beneficial effects have been attributed to strains belonging to the subspecies Bifidobacterium longum subsp. longum and Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, which are often found in infants and adults. The increasing numbers of sequenced genomes belonging to these two subspecies, and the availability of novel computational tools focused on predicting glycolytic abilities, with the aim of understanding the capabilities of degrading specific carbohydrates, allowed us to depict the potential glycoside hydrolases (GH) of these bacteria, with a focus on those GH profiles that differ in the two subspecies. We performed an in silico examination of 188 sequenced B. longum genomes and depicted the commonly present and strain-specific GHs and GH families among representatives of this species. Additionally, GH profiling, genome-based and 16S rRNA-based clustering analyses showed that the subspecies assignment of some strains does not properly match with their genetic background. Furthermore, the analysis of the potential GH component allowed the distinction of clear GH patterns. Some of the GH activities, and their link with the two subspecies under study, are further discussed. Overall, our in silico analysis poses some questions about the suitability of considering the GH activities of B. longum subsp. longum and B. longum subsp. infantis to gain insight into the characterization and classification of these two subspecies with probiotic interest.
Effect of Co-Inoculation of Candida zemplinina, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum for the Industrial Production of Negroamaro Wine in Apulia (Southern Italy)
Authors: Tufariello Maria , Capozzi Vittorio , Spano Giuseppe , Cantele Giovanni , Venerito Pasquale , Mita Giovanni , Grieco Francesco
Published: May 2020

The employment of multi-species starter cultures has growing importance in modern winemaking for improving the complexity and wine attributes. The assessment of compatibility for selected species/strains at the industrial-scale is crucial to assure the quality and the safety associated with fermentations. An aspect particularly relevant when the species belong to non-Saccharomyces, Saccharomyces spp. and malolactic bacteria, three categories with different biological characteristics and oenological significance. To the best of our knowledge, the present report is the first study regarding the utilization of a combined starter culture composed of three strains of non-Saccharomyces, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum for production of wine at the industrial scale. More in-depth, this work investigated the oenological potential of the autochthonous characterized strains from the Apulian region (Southern Italy), Candida zemplinina (syn. Starmerella bacillaris) 35NC1, S. cerevisiae (NP103), and L. plantarum (LP44), in co-inoculation following a complete scale-up scheme. Microbial dynamics, fermentative profiles and production of volatile secondary compounds were assessed in lab-scale micro-vinification tests and then the performances of the mixed starter formulation were further evaluated by pilot-scale wine production. The above results were finally validated by performing an industrial-scale vinification on 100HL of Negroamaro cultivar grape must. The multi-starter formulation was able to rule the different stages of the fermentation processes effectively, and the different microbial combinations enhanced the organoleptic wine features to different extents. The findings indicated that the simultaneous inoculation of the three species affect the quality and quantity of several volatile compounds, confirming that the complexity of the wine can reflect the complexity of the starter cultures. Moreover, the results underlined that the same mixed culture could differently influence wine quality when tested at the lab-, pilot- and industrial-scale. Finally, we highlighted the significance of employment non-Saccharomyces and L. plantarum, together with S. cerevisiae, autochthonous strains in the design of custom-made starter culture formulation for typical regional wine production with pronounced unique quality.
Each Mycobacterium Requires a Specific Culture Medium Composition for Triggering an Optimized Immunomodulatory and Antitumoral Effect
Authors: Guallar-Garrido Sandra , Campo-Pérez Víctor , Sánchez-Chardi Alejandro , Luquin Marina , Julián Esther
Published: May 2020

Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) remains the first treatment option for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (BC) patients. In research laboratories, M. bovis BCG is mainly grown in commercially available media supplemented with animal-derived agents that favor its growth, while biomass production for patient treatment is performed in Sauton medium which lacks animal-derived components. However, there is not a standardized formulation of Sauton medium, which could affect mycobacterial characteristics. Here, the impact of culture composition on the immunomodulatory and antitumor capacity of M. bovis BCG and Mycolicibacterium brumae, recently described as efficacious for BC treatment, has been addressed. Both mycobacteria grown in Middlebrook and different Sauton formulations, differing in the source of nitrogen and amount of carbon source, were studied. Our results indicate the relevance of culture medium composition on the antitumor effect triggered by mycobacteria, indicating that the most productive culture medium is not necessarily the formulation that provides the most favorable immunomodulatory profile and the highest capacity to inhibit BC cell growth. Strikingly, each mycobacterial species requires a specific culture medium composition to provide the best profile as an immunotherapeutic agent for BC treatment. Our results highlight the relevance of meticulousness in mycobacteria production, providing insight into the application of these bacteria in BC research.
Integrated Battery Scrap Recycling and Nickel Slag Cleaning with Methane Reduction
Authors: Ruismäki Ronja , Dańczak Anna , Klemettinen Lassi , Taskinen Pekka , Lindberg Daniel , Jokilaakso Ari
Published: May 2020

Innovative recycling routes are needed to fulfill the increasing demand for battery raw materials to ensure sufficiency in the future. The integration of battery scrap recycling and nickel slag cleaning by reduction with methane was experimentally researched for the first time in this study. Industrial nickel slag from the direct Outotec nickel flash smelting (DON) process was mixed with both synthetic and industrial battery scrap. The end products of the slag-scrap mixtures after reduction at 1400 °C in a CH4 (5 vol %)-N2 atmosphere were an Ni–Co–Cu–Fe metal alloy and FeOx–SiO2 slag. It was noted that a higher initial amount of cobalt in the feed mixture increased the recovery of cobalt to the metal alloy. Increasing the reduction time decreased the fraction of sulfur in the metal alloy and magnetite in the slag. After reduction, manganese was deported in the slag and most of the zinc volatilized. This study confirmed the possibility of replacing coke with methane as a non-fossil reductant in nickel slag cleaning on a laboratory scale, and the recovery of battery metals cobalt and nickel in the slag cleaning process with good yields.
Mineralogy of Silicate-Natrophosphate Immiscible Inclusion in Elga IIE Iron Meteorite
Authors: Sharygin Victor V.
Published: May 2020

Rare type of silicate inclusions found in the Elga iron meteorite (group IIE) has a very specific mineral composition and shows silicate (≈90%)–natrophosphate (≈10%) liquid immiscibility due to meniscus-like isolation of Na-Ca-Mg-Fe phosphates. The 3 mm wide immiscible inclusion has been first studied in detail using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, electron microprobe analysis and Raman spectroscopy. The silicate part of the inclusion contains fine-grained quartz-feldspar aggregate and mafic minerals. The relationships of feldspars indicate solid decay of initially homogenous K-Na-feldspar into albite and K-feldspar with decreasing of temperature. Some mafic minerals in the silicate part are exotic in composition: the dominant phase is an obertiite-subgroup oxyamphibole (amphibole supergroup), varying from ferri-obertiite NaNa2Mg3Fe3+Ti[Si8O22]O2 to hypothetical NaNa2Mg3Fe2+0.5Ti1.5[Si8O22]O2; minor phases are the aenigmatite-subgroup mineral (sapphirine supergroup) with composition close to median value of the Na2Fe2+5TiSi6O18O2-Na2Mg5TiSi6O18O2 join, orthopyroxene (enstatite), clinopyroxene of the diopside Ca(Mg,Fe)Si2O6–kosmochlor NaCrSi2O6-Na(Mg,Fe)0.5Ti0.5Si2O6 series and chromite. The alteration phases are represented by Fe-dominant chlorite, goethite and hydrated Na2O-rich (2.3–3.3 wt.%) Fe-phosphate close to vivianite. Natrophosphate part consists of aggregate of three orthophosphates (brianite, czochralskiite, marićite) and minor Na-Cr-Ti-clinopyroxene, pentlandite, rarely taenite. Czochralskiite Na4Ca3Mg(PO4)4 is rich in FeO (2.3–5.1 wt.%) and MnO (0.4–1.5 wt.%). Brianite Na2CaMg(PO4)2 contains FeO (3.0–4.3 wt.%) and MnO (0.3–0.7 wt.%) and marićite NaFe(PO4) bears MnO (5.5–6.2 wt.%), MgO (5.3–6.2 wt.%) and CaO (0.5–1.5 wt.%). The contact between immiscible parts is decorated by enstatite zone in the silicate part and diopside–kosmochlor clinopyroxene zone in the natrophosphate ones. The mineralogy of the studied immiscible inclusion outlines three potentially new mineral species, which were first identified in meteorites: obertiite–related oxyamphibole NaNa2Mg3Fe2+0.5Ti1.5[Si8O22]O2, Mg-analog of aenigmatite Na2Mg5TiSi6O18O2 and Na-Ti-rich clinopyroxene Na(Mg,Fe)0.5Ti0.5Si2O6.
Seed-Assisted Growth of TiO2 Nanowires by Thermal Oxidation for Chemical Gas Sensing
Authors: Munasinghe Arachchige Hashitha M. M. , Zappa Dario , Poli Nicola , Gunawardhana Nanda , Attanayake Nuwan H. , Comini Elisabetta
Published: May 2020

Herein, we report the catalyst assisted growth of TiO2 one-dimensional (1D) nanowires (NWs) on alumina substrates by the thermal oxidation technique. RF magnetron sputtering was used to deposit a thin Ti metallic layer on the alumina substrate, followed by an Au catalytic layer on the Ti metallic one. Thermal oxidation was carried out in an oxygen deficient environment. The optimal thermal growth temperature was 700 °C, in a mixture environment composed by Ar and O2. As a comparison, Ti films were also oxidized without the presence of the Au catalyst. However, without the Au catalyst, no growth of nanowires was observed. Furthermore, the effect of the oxidation temperature and the film thickness were also investigated. SEM, TEM, and EDX studies demonstrated the presence of Au nanoparticles on top of the NWs, indicating that the Au catalyst drove the growth process. Raman spectroscopy revealed the Rutile crystalline phase of TiO2 NWs. Gas testing measurements were carried out in the presence of a relative humidity of 40%, showing a reversible response to ethanol and H2 at various concentrations. Thanks to the moderate temperature and the easiness of the process, the presented synthesis technique is suitable to grow TiO2 NWs for many different applications.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine in Dementia and Other Cognitive Disorders: A Critical Update
Authors: Pennisi Manuela , Lanza Giuseppe , Cantone Mariagiovanna , D’Amico Emanuele , Fisicaro Francesco , Puglisi Valentina , Vinciguerra Luisa , Bella Rita , Vicari Enzo , Malaguarnera Giulia
Published: May 2020

Several studies explored the effects of acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) in dementia, suggesting a role in slowing down cognitive decline. Nevertheless, in 2003 a systematic review concluded there was insufficient evidence to recommend a clinical use, although a meta-analysis in the same year showed a significant advantage for ALC for clinical scales and psychometric tests. Since then, other studies have been published; however, a critical review is still lacking. We provide an update of the studies on ALC in primary and secondary dementia, highlighting the current limitations and translational implications. Overall, the role of ALC in dementia is still under debate. The underlying mechanisms may include restoring of cell membranes and synaptic functioning, enhancing cholinergic activity, promoting mitochondrial energy metabolism, protecting against toxins, and exerting neurotrophic effects. The effects of ALC on the gut–liver–brain axis seem to identify the category of patients in which the new insights contribute most to the mechanisms of action of ALC, likely being the liver metabolism and the improvement of hepatic detoxifying mechanisms the primary targets. In this framework, our research group has dealt with this topic, focusing on the ALC-related cross-talk mechanisms. Further studies with homogeneous sample and longitudinal assessment are needed before a systematic clinical application.
Vitamin D Status and Vitamin D-Dependent Apoptosis in Obesity
Authors: Sergeev Igor N.
Published: May 2020

The role of vitamin D in obesity appears to be linked to vitamin D insufficient/deficient status. However, mechanistic understanding of the role of vitamin D in obesity is lacking. We have shown earlier that the vitamin D hormonal form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), induces cell death by apoptosis in mature adipocytes. This effect of the hormone is mediated by the cellular Ca2+ signaling pathway: a sustained increase of intracellular (cytosolic) Ca2+ concentration followed by activation of Ca2+-dependent initiators and effectors of apoptosis. In recent animal studies, we demonstrated that low vitamin D status is observed in diet-induced obesity (DIO). High intake of vitamin D3 in DIO decreased the weight of white adipose tissue and improved biomarkers related to adiposity and Ca2+ regulation. The anti-obesity effect of vitamin D (1,25(OH)2D3) in DIO was determined by the induction of Ca2+-mediated apoptosis in mature adipocytes executed by Ca2+-dependent apoptotic proteases (calpains and caspases). Thus, a high intake of vitamin D in obesity increases vitamin D nutritional status and normalizes vitamin D hormonal status that is accompanied by the reduction of adiposity. Overall, our findings imply that vitamin D may contribute to the prevention of obesity and obesity-related diseases and that the mechanism of the anti-obesity effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 includes induction of Ca2+-mediated apoptosis in adipocytes.
Mixing of Apples and Oranges in Milk Research: A Cohort Analysis of Non-Fermented Milk Intake and All-Cause Mortality
Authors: Michaëlsson Karl , Byberg Liisa
Published: May 2020

Mortality in relation to type of milk intake is unclear. We present mortality rates by intake of non-fermented milk fat content type and examine the degree of bias when other fat content types of non-fermented milk are kept in the reference category. For this purpose, we used a longitudinal cohort consisting of 61,433 women who had been administered food frequency questionnaires in 1987–1990 and in 1997, and analyzed time to death. Non-fermented milk consumption was divided into low ≤0.5%, medium 1.5%, or high fat 3%. For each specific type of milk, the first analysis (A) is restricted to those who consumed less than one serving per day of the other milk subtypes. In the second analysis (B), everyone is retained, i.e., leading to a reference category “contaminated” with other milk consumers. During follow-up, 22,391 women died. Highest (≥3 glasses/day) vs. lowest consumption category of milk (<1 glass/day) with 0.5% fat content was associated with a multivariable hazard ratio (HR) of 1.71 (95%CI 1.57–1.86) in analysis A, whereas the same comparison with a “contaminated” reference category in analysis B provided a HR of 1.34 (95%CI 1.24–1.45), p-value for homogeneity <0.0001. The corresponding HRs for 1.5% fat milk were: 1.82 (95%CI 1.63–2.04) and 1.38 (95%CI 1.25–1.51), and for 3% fat milk 1.95 (95%CI 1.77–2.15) and 1.40 (95%CI 1.29–1.52). HR for ≥3 glasses/day of total milk was 1.95 (95%CI 1.84–2.06). We observe a higher mortality in women with high milk consumption, irrespective of milk fat content. A “contaminated” reference group substantially attenuates the actual estimates.
Dietary Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load Are Not Associated with the Metabolic Syndrome in Lebanese Healthy Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Borgi Cecile , Taktouk Mandy , Nasrallah Mona , Isma’eel Hussain , Tamim Hani , Nasreddine Lara
Published: May 2020

High dietary glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) were suggested to increase the risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS). This study aims to estimate dietary GI and GL in a sample of healthy Lebanese adults and examine their association with MetS and its individual abnormalities. The study uses data from a community-based survey of 501 Lebanese urban adults. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Biochemical, anthropometric, and blood pressure measurements were obtained. Subjects with previous diagnosis of chronic disease, metabolic abnormalities, or with incomplete data or implausible energy intakes were excluded, yielding a sample of 283. Participants were grouped into quartiles of GI and GL. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Average dietary GI and GL were estimated at 59.9 ± 8 and 209.7 ± 100.3. Participants belonging to the highest GI quartile were at increased risk of having MetS (odds ratio (OR) = 2.251, 95% CI:1.120–4.525) but this association lost significance with further adjustments. Those belonging to the second quartile of GI had significantly lower odds of having hyperglycemia (OR: 0.380, 95% CI:0.174–0.833). No associations were detected between GL and MetS. The study contributes to the body of evidence discussing the relationship between GI, GL, and MetS, in a nutrition transition context.
Influence of In Vitro Digestion on Composition, Bioaccessibility and Antioxidant Activity of Food Polyphenols—A Non-Systematic Review
Authors: Wojtunik-Kulesza Karolina , Oniszczuk Anna , Oniszczuk Tomasz , Combrzyński Maciej , Nowakowska Dominika , Matwijczuk Arkadiusz
Published: May 2020

There is increased interest in following a healthy lifestyle and consuming a substantial portion of secondary plant metabolites, such as polyphenols, due to their benefits for the human body. Food products enriched with various forms of fruits and vegetables are sources of pro-health components. Nevertheless, in many cases, the level of their activities is changed in in vivo conditions. The changes are strictly connected with processes in the digestive system that transfigure the structure of the active compounds and simultaneously keep or modify their biological activities. Much attention has focused on their bioavailability, a prerequisite for further physiological functions. As human studies are time consuming, costly and restricted by ethical concerns, in vitro models for investigating the effects of digestion on these compounds have been developed to predict their release from the food matrix, as well as their bioaccessibility. Most typically, models simulate digestion in the oral cavity, the stomach, the small intestine and, occasionally, the large intestine. The presented review aims to discuss the impact of in vitro digestion on the composition, bioaccessibility and antioxidant activity of food polyphenols. Additionally, we consider the influence of pH on antioxidant changes in the aforementioned substances.