bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tilapia On-Farm Welfare Assessment Protocol for Semi-intensive Production Systems
Authors: Pedrazzani Ana Silvia , Quintiliano Murilo Henrique , Bolfe Franciele , Sans Elaine Cristina de Oliveira , Molento Carla Forte Maiolino
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to develop and test a tilapia on-farm welfare assessment protocol, based on Brazilian semi-intensive production systems. The study included two mains steps: the elaboration of tilapia welfare protocol and its on-field feasibility test. The protocol, including the potential indicators organized into health, environmental, nutritional, and behavioral categories, was tested on three farms. Skin, eyes, gills, jaws, fins, and vertebral spine were individually examined in 139 individual tilapias. Water physicochemical parameters and production system were considered. The overall nutritional status of individuals was assessed through body condition factor, feed conversion ratio, feed crude protein ratio, and feed ingestion behavior. During massive capture, signals of stress, level of crowding, and duration of air exposure were registered. Time required for loss of consciousness was evaluated by clinical reflexes and other behaviors during slaughter. Eye, jaw, and gill scores were different across farms (Kruskal-Wallis test,p= 0.011; 0.015; 0.043, respectively), showing good discrimination power. Critical welfare points were extremely low dissolved oxygen in water, fin and skin lesions, prolonged air exposure during pre-slaughter handling and non-humane slaughter techniques, as decapitation or asphyxia. The protocol presents practical viability and it is an initial step for the development of a tilapia welfare strategy, where the prioritization of critical welfare points, implementation of corrective actions and monitoring of the results is part of a permanent welfare management system.
A Dynamic Route-Planning System Based on Industry 4.0 Technology
Authors: Nguyen Duc Duy , Tran Huu Thong , Nananukul Narameth
Published: November 2020

Due to the availability of Industry 4.0 technology, the application of big data analytics to automated systems is possible. The distribution of products between warehouses or within a warehouse is an area that can benefit from automation based on Industry 4.0 technology. In this paper, the focus was on developing a dynamic route-planning system for automated guided vehicles within a warehouse. A dynamic routing problem with real-time obstacles was considered in this research. A key problem in this research area is the lack of a real-time route-planning algorithm that is suitable for the implementation on automated guided vehicles with limited computing resources. An optimization model, as well as machine learning methodologies for determining an operational route for the problem, is proposed. An internal layout of the warehouse of a large consumer product distributor was used to test the performance of the methodologies. A simulation environment based on Gazebo was developed and used for testing the implementation of the route-planning system. Computational results show that the proposed machine learning methodologies were able to generate routes with testing accuracy of up to 98% for a practical internal layout of a warehouse with 18 storage racks and 67 path segments. Managerial insights into how the machine learning configuration affects the prediction accuracy are also provided.
Unsupervised Clustering of Neighborhood Associations and Image Segmentation Applications
Authors: Wang Zhenggang , Li Xuantong , Jin Jin , Liu Zhong , Liu Wei
Published: November 2020

Irregular shape clustering is always a difficult problem in clustering analysis. In this paper, by analyzing the advantages and disadvantages of existing clustering analysis algorithms, a new neighborhood density correlation clustering (NDCC) algorithm for quickly discovering arbitrary shaped clusters. Because the density of the center region of any cluster sample dataset is greater than that of the edge region, the data points can be divided into core, edge, and noise data points, and then the density correlation of the core data points in their neighborhood can be used to form a cluster. Further more, by constructing an objective function and optimizing the parameters automatically, a locally optimal result that is close to the globally optimal solution can be obtained. This algorithm avoids the clustering errors caused by iso-density points between clusters. We compare this algorithm with other five clustering algorithms and verify it on two common remote sensing image datasets. The results show that it can cluster the same ground objects in remote sensing images into one class and distinguish different ground objects. NDCC has strong robustness to irregular scattering dataset and can solve the clustering problem of remote sensing image.
On-Line Modal Parameter Identification Applied to Linear and Nonlinear Vibration Absorbers
Authors: Trujillo-Franco Luis Gerardo , Silva-Navarro Gerardo , Beltran-Carbajal Francisco , Campos-Mercado Eduardo , Abundis-Fong Hugo Francisco
Published: November 2020

A solution of the vibration attention problem on a flexible structure from a dynamic vibration absorption perspective is experimentally and numerically studied in this article. Linear and nonlinear dynamic vibration absorbers are properly implemented on a primary structure of n degrees of freedom through a modal decomposition analysis and using the tuning condition when the primary system has one single degree of freedom. A time-domain algebraic identification scheme for on-line modal parameter estimation of flexible structures is presented. A fast frequency estimation of harmonic excitation force is also obtained. A Hilbert transform analysis of the frequency response function for the case of nonlinear dynamic vibration absorption is introduced. In this way, influence of this particular passive nonlinear control device on system dynamic response can be determined. The proposed approach is validated on an harmonically perturbed building-like structure, which is discretized in a finite number of degrees of freedom. The flexible structure is subjected to resonant operational conditions, and coupled to a pendulum vibration absorber configured as a tuned mass damper as well as an autoparametric system.
The Impact of Nitrogen Pollution in the Agricultural Landscape on Lichens: A Review of Their Responses at the Community, Species, Biont and Physiological Levels
Authors: Zarabska-Bożejewicz Daria
Published: November 2020

Lichenized fungi are widely used as bioindicators owing to their sensitivity to various anthropogenic impacts. Increased nitrogen deposition affects the occurrence, abundance and distribution of lichens. The main sources of nitrogen in the agricultural landscape are ammonia (NH3) and the ammonium cation (NH4+). Livestock farming and the use of organic and mineral fertilizers are primarily responsible for the emissions of these compounds. N in excess can negatively impact lichen biota and lead, for example, to species decline, impoverishment of lichen communities or unbalanced symbiosis. However, there is also evidence for certain opposite effects, in particular at medium N concentrations. Positive influences may be manifested, for example, by higher chlorophyll a concentrations, or by a greater lichen diversity being supported by the coexistence of lichens with different trophic requirements. Indicator values of lichens in relation to N input are exhibited, for example, by some biont markers (the contents of ergosterol and chlorophyll a), particular species, such as Xanthoriaparietina, or trophic functional groups (oligotrophilous and nitrophilous lichens). Gaps identified in the current knowledge are discussed.
Comprehensive Analysis of Antioxidant Compounds from Lippia citriodora and Hibiscus sabdariffa Green Extracts Attained by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Villegas-Aguilar María del Carmen , Leyva-Jiménez Francisco Javier , Cádiz-Gurrea María de la Luz , Segura-Carretero Antonio , Arráez-Román David
Published: November 2020

Phenolic compounds have shown to have a high bioactive potential against various pathologies, postulating as an interesting alternative to manage some diseases. In this sense, both Lippia citriodora and Hibiscus sabdariffa are two botanical sources with a demonstrated high bioactive potential, in which their antioxidant capacity stands out. In this work, the optimization of the extraction conditions for the recovery of phytochemicals from L. citriodora leaves and H. sabdariffa calyces has been carried out using Response Surface Methodologies (RSM) considering their total polar compounds measured by HPLC-ESI-TOF/MS and Folin-Ciocalteu assay, and its antioxidant capacity evaluated by Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) and Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) assays. The results showed that to maximize the antioxidant capacity in H. sabdariffa, a moderate temperature and high ethanol percentage are needed, while a low temperature and a high percentage of ethanol are needed in L. citriodora. In addition, with the results obtained in the multiple response analysis, it is possible to affirm the importance of this type of analysis to develop functional ingredients, taking into account both total content of phenolic compounds and their bioactivity. Furthermore, as confirmed in this study, these analyses can be extrapolated in different techniques and in different matrices, with phenolic compounds from different families being important to develop new high added value products for food, pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries.
Detecting Colluding Inter-App Communication in Mobile Environment
Authors: Casolare Rosangela , Martinelli Fabio , Mercaldo Francesco , Santone Antonella
Published: November 2020

The increase in computing capabilities of mobile devices has, in the last few years, made possible a plethora of complex operations performed from smartphones and tablets end users, for instance, from a bank transfer to the full management of home automation. Clearly, in this context, the detection of malicious applications is a critical and challenging task, especially considering that the user is often totally unaware of the behavior of the applications installed on their device. In this paper, we propose a method to detect inter-app communication i.e., a colluding communication between different applications with data support to silently exfiltrate sensitive and private information. We based the proposed method on model checking, by representing Android applications in terms of automata and by proposing a set of logic properties to reduce the number of comparisons and a set of logic properties automatically generated for detecting colluding applications. We evaluated the proposed method on a set of 1092 Android applications, including different colluding attacks, by obtaining an accuracy of 1, showing the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Curcumin Nanocrystals: Production, Physicochemical Assessment, and In Vitro Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Effects against Bacterial Loading of the Implant Fixture
Authors: Negahdari Ramin , Sharifi Simin , Ghavimi Mohammad Ali , Memar Mohammad Yousef , Khaneshi Bita , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz , Eftekhari Aziz , Cucchiarini Magali
Published: November 2020

Background: This study aimed to prepare and study physicochemical properties as well as the antibacterial action of curcumin nanocrystals inside the implant fixture against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis). Methods: Curcumin nanocrystals were prepared via precipitation combined with the spray drying method. The produced curcumin nanocrystals were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Moreover, the in vitro antimicrobial effect of curcumin nanocrystals inside the implant fixture was assessed against E. coli, S. aureus, and E. faecalis. All implant-abutment assemblies were immersed in bacterial suspensions and were incubated at 24, 48, and 72 h. The contents of each implant were cultured to count the colony of bacteria at 37 °C for 24 h. Results: The prepared curcumin nanocrystals with a mean particle size of 95 nm and spherical morphology exhibited a removal rate of 99.99% for all bacteria. In addition, the colony-forming unit (CFU) of bacteria in exposure to nanocrystals significantly was reduced (p < 0.010) by increasing the time. Conclusions: Curcumin nanocrystals can be used inside the implant fixture as an antimicrobial agent in order to more stabilization of the implant.
Iron-Rich Magnetic Coal Fly Ash Particles Induce Apoptosis in Human Bronchial Cells
Authors: Lawson Matthew J. , Prytherch Zoe C. , Jones Tim P. , Adams Rachel A. , BéruBé Kelly A.
Published: November 2020

Svalbard is an arctic archipelago where coal mining generates all electricity via the local coal-fired power station. Coal combustion produces a waste product in the form of particulate matter (PM) coal fly ash (CFA), derived from incombustible minerals present in the feed coal. PM ≤10 µm (diameter) may be “inhaled” into the human respiratory system, and particles ≤2.5 µm may enter the distal alveoli to disrupt normal pulmonary functions and trigger disease pathways. This study discovered that Svalbard CFA contained unusually high levels of iron-rich magnetic minerals that induced adverse effects upon human lungs cells. Iron is a well-characterised driver of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, a driving force for cell death and disease. CFA physicochemical characterisation showed non-uniform particle morphologies indicative of coal burnt at inefficient combustion temperatures. The bioreactivity (ROS generation) of PM2.5/10 fractions was measured using plasmid scission assay (PSA, DNA damage) and haemolysis assays (erythrocyte lysis), with PM2.5 CFA showing significant bioreactivity. CFA leached in mild acid caused a significant increase in toxicity, which could occur in CFA waste-stores. The CFA and leachates were exposed to a surrogate model of human bronchial epithelia that confirmed that CFA induced apoptosis in bronchial cells. This study shows that CFA containing magnetic iron-rich minerals mediated adverse reactions in the human lung, and thus CFA should be considered to be an environmental inhalation hazard.
Design of a Segmented Mirror with a Global Radius of Curvature Actuation System: Contributions of Multiple Surrogates
Authors: Wu Songhang , Dong Jihong , Xu Shuyan , Lu Zhirong , Xu Boqian
Published: November 2020

Due to fabrication difficulties, separately-polished segmented mirrors cannot meet the co-phasing surface shape error requirements in the segmented telescope system. Applying the global radius of curvature (GRoC) actuation system for the individual segments has become an effective solution in space-based telescopes. In this paper, we designed a segmented mirror with a GRoC actuation system. The direct optimization by numerical simulations has low computational efficiency and is not easy to converge for optimizing the actuation point’s position on the segmented mirror. For this problem, three common surrogates, including polynomial response surface (PRS), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), and kriging (KRG), were summed to propose the multiple surrogates (MS) which have the higher approximate ability. The surrogates were then optimized through the multi-island genetic algorithm (MIGA), and the segmented mirror met the design requirement. Compared with direct optimization through numerical simulations, the results show that the proposed multiple-surrogate-based optimization (MSBO) methodology saves computational cost significantly. Besides, it can be deployed to solve other complex optimization problems.
Novel Human-in-the-Loop (HIL) Simulation Method to Study Synthetic Agents and Standardize Human–Machine Teams (HMT)
Authors: Damacharla Praveen , Dhakal Parashar , Bandreddi Jyothi Priyanka , Javaid Ahmad Y. , Gallimore Jennie J. , Elkin Colin , Devabhaktuni Vijay K.
Published: November 2020

This work presents a multi-year study conducted at the University of Toledo, aimed at improving human–machine teaming (HMT) methods and technologies. With the advent of artificial intelligence (AI) in 21st-century machines, collaboration between humans and machines has become highly complicated for real-time applications. The penetration of intelligent and synthetic assistants (IA/SA) in virtually every field has opened up a path to the area of HMT. When it comes to crucial tasks such as patient treatment/care, industrial production, and defense, the use of non-standardized HMT technologies may pose a risk to human lives and cost billions of taxpayer dollars. A thorough literature survey revealed that there are not many established standards or benchmarks for HMT. In this paper, we propose a method to design an HMT based on a generalized architecture. This design includes the development of an intelligent collaborative system and the human team. Followed by the identification of processes and metrics to test and validate the proposed model, we present a novel human-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation method. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated using two controlled HMT scenarios: Emergency care provider (ECP) training and patient treatment by an experienced medic. Both scenarios include humans processing visual data and performing actions that represent real-world applications while responding to a Voice-Based Synthetic Assistant (VBSA) as a collaborator that keeps track of actions. The impact of various machines, humans, and HMT parameters is presented from the perspective of performance, rules, roles, and operational limitations. The proposed HIL method was found to assist in standardization studies in the pursuit of HMT benchmarking for critical applications. Finally, we present guidelines for designing and benchmarking HMTs based on the case studies’ results analysis.
The Macro- and Micro-Mechanics of the Colon and Rectum II: Theoretical and Computational Methods
Authors: Zhao Yunmei , Siri Saeed , Feng Bin , Pierce David M.
Published: November 2020

Abnormal colorectal biomechanics and mechanotransduction associate with an array of gastrointestinal diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticula disease, anorectal disorders, ileus, and chronic constipation. Visceral pain, principally evoked from mechanical distension, has a unique biomechanical component that plays a critical role in mechanotransduction, the process of encoding mechanical stimuli to the colorectum by sensory afferents. To fully understand the underlying mechanisms of visceral mechanical neural encoding demands focused attention on the macro- and micro-mechanics of colon tissue. Motivated by biomechanical experiments on the colon and rectum, increasing efforts focus on developing constitutive frameworks to interpret and predict the anisotropic and nonlinear biomechanical behaviors of the multilayered colorectum. We will review the current literature on computational modeling of the colon and rectum as well as the mechanical neural encoding by stretch sensitive afferent endings, and then highlight our recent advances in these areas. Current models provide insight into organ- and tissue-level biomechanics as well as the stretch-sensitive afferent endings of colorectal tissues yet an important challenge in modeling theory remains. The research community has not connected the biomechanical models to those of mechanosensitive nerve endings to create a cohesive multiscale framework for predicting mechanotransduction from organ-level biomechanics.
Antioxidant/Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Caloric Restriction in an Aged and Obese Rat Model: The Role of Adiponectin
Authors: La Russa Daniele , Marrone Alessandro , Mandalà Maurizio , Macirella Rachele , Pellegrino Daniela
Published: November 2020

Caloric restriction (CR) represents a powerful intervention for extending healthspan and lifespan in several animal models, from yeast to primates. Additionally, in humans, CR has been found to induce cardiometabolic adaptations associated with improved health. In this study, we evaluated in an aged and obese rat model the effect of long-term (6 months) caloric restriction (−40%) on the oxidative/inflammatory balance in order to investigate the underlining mechanisms. In plasma, we analyzed the oxidative balance by photometric tests and the adiponectin/tumor necrosis factor-α-induced gene/protein 6 (TSG-6) levels by Western blot analysis. In the white adipose tissue, we examined the protein levels of AdipoR1, pAMPK, NFκB, NRF-2, and glutathione S-tranferase P1 by Western blot analysis. Our results clearly showed that caloric restriction significantly improves the plasmatic oxidative/inflammatory balance in parallel with a major increase in circulating adiponectin levels. Additionally, at the level of adipose tissue, we found a positive modulation of both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways. These adaptations, induced by caloric restriction, with the achievement of normal weight, suggest that inflammatory and redox imbalance in obese aged rats appear to be more linked to obesity than to aging.
Whitening Effects of a Novel Oral Care Gel with Biomimetic Hydroxyapatite: A 4-Week Observational Pilot Study
Authors: Steinert Sonja , Kuchenbecker Joern , Meyer Frederic , Simader Barbara , Zwanzig Kai , Enax Joachim
Published: November 2020

The whitening effects of an oral care gel based on particulate microcrystalline hydroxyapatite, Ca5(PO4)3(OH), were tested in a 4-week observational pilot study. Patients were recruited from two dental practices in Germany. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their personal perception of their tooth color and brightness as well as the level of dentin hypersensitivity at the baseline and after 4 weeks of twice daily use of an oral care gel with hydroxyapatite. Data of 25 patients with a mean age of 46 ± 16 years were analyzed. Various subjective whitening parameters showed a tendency to be improved after the 4-week use. Additionally, patients reported that symptoms of dentin hypersensitivity were significantly reduced (p < 0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI): (0.8; 2.4)), and the tooth surface was significantly smoother (p < 0.05, 95% CI: (0.54; 1.6)). In conclusion, microcrystalline hydroxyapatite is a promising whitening agent for oral care formulations and represents a biomimetic alternative to other whitening agents for daily dental care.
Utilization of Quarry Dust and Calcareous Fly Ash for the Production of Lightweight Cellular Micro-Concrete—Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Soultana Athanasia , Galetakis Michael
Published: November 2020

This study aims to assess the production of cellular micro-concrete, consisting of quarry dust, calcareous fly ash, cement, and aluminum powder as aerating agent. The proposed mixture design methodology is based on a Box–Behnken fractional factorial experimental design. Testing of specimens included compressive and flexural strength, density, water absorption, and thermal conductivity measurements. Results indicate that density is a characteristic property which determines all the measured properties. Aerating agent to cement and fly ash ratio has the strongest effect on all the measured properties. The developed methodology is a valuable tool for the production of cellular micro-concrete with predetermined properties by utilizing large amounts of quarry dust.
Bacteria Supported on Carbon-Coated Monoliths for Water Denitrification
Authors: Espinosa-Iglesias David , Bailón-García Esther , Bautista-Toledo Mª Isidora , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Pérez-Cadenas Agustín F.
Published: November 2020

Escherichia coli bacteria were grown inside the channels of cordierite monoliths previously coated with a very good adhered carbon layer. These monolithic structures were tested at room temperature for the nitrate elimination of water solutions working as a batch monolithic bioreactor and showed very good results, as 100% of the nitrates and nitrites were completely removed in the used experimental conditions. Different rate flows of bacteria growth and nitrate elimination were studied, showing that the higher the flow velocity, the faster the nitrate elimination. Finally, the reproducibility tests confirmed the good performance of the proposed bioreactor.
Comparative Study of Zn2Ti3O8 and ZnTiO3 Photocatalytic Properties for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Pantoja-Espinoza Juan C. , Domínguez-Arvizu Jorge L. , Jiménez-Miramontes Jaime A. , Hernández-Majalca Blanca C. , Meléndez-Zaragoza Miguel J. , Salinas-Gutiérrez Jesús M. , Herrera-Pérez Guillermo M. , Collins-Martínez Virginia H. , López-Ortiz Alejandro
Published: November 2020

In the present work, zinc titanates (ZTO) as photocatalysts were synthesized, characterized, and evaluated aiming to study their photocatalytic properties for hydrogen production under visible-light irradiation and employing MeOH (methanol) and TEOA (Triethanolamine) as sacrificial agents. ZTO were synthesized by modified Pechini method. Characterization of materials consisted in TGA, XRD, TEM, EELS, BET, and UV–Vis. Surface interaction studies consisted of FT-IR spectroscopy and determination of MeOH and TEOA adsorption–desorption capacities on the ZTO by TGA. Zinc titanates were evaluated as photocatalyst for H2 production using an artificial visible light and monitored by GC. TGA results led to establish calcination temperatures of 550 °C (Zn2Ti3O8) and 700 °C (ZnTiO3) to reach their crystalline phases. XRD analysis of sample cds-ZTO found cubic Zn2Ti3O8 and traces of the ZnO crystalline phase, while p-ZTO exhibited a mixture of cubic and hexagonal ZnTiO3 crystalline phases. Surface area for cds-ZTO was 88 m2/g, while ZnTiO3 had 13 m2/g. Photocatalytic H2 production for cds-ZTO and p-ZTO using TEOA as sacrificial agent showed the highest photocatalytic activities generating 548 and 441 µmolH2/h.gcat. TEOA adsorption–desorption capacity was found superior on cds-ZTO and p-ZTO than that for MeOH on both samples.
Catalytic Combustion of Propane over Pt-Mo/ZSM-5 Catalyst: The Promotional Effects of Molybdenum
Authors: Liao Zhenan , Zha Kaiwen , Sun Wenjie , Huang Zhen , Xu Hualong , Shen Wei
Published: November 2020

To improve propane combustion activity and illustrate the promotional effects of molybdenum doping, Pt-Mo/ZSM-5 catalysts with different Mo amounts were prepared by the co-impregnation method. XRD, Raman, H2-TPR, NH3-TPD, in situ DRIFTs, XPS and other characterizations were performed. The results indicated that the concentration of Pt0 in Pt/ZSM-5 catalyst increased after the doping of Mo and the content of Pt0 had a positive correlation with the reaction turnover frequency value. The propane combustion activity of Pt/ZSM-5 catalyst was significantly improved after the doping of molybdenum species. Among all the catalysts, Pt-6Mo/ZSM-5 catalyst (Pt/ZSM-5 with 6 wt.% Mo modification) showed the lowest T50 and T90 for propane catalytic combustion. Moreover, the Pt-Mo/ZSM-5 catalyst exhibited outstanding catalytic stability.
On the Study of Dislocation Density in MBE GaSb-Based Structures
Authors: Jasik Agata , Smoczyński Dariusz , Sankowska Iwona , Wawro Andrzej , Ratajczak Jacek , Czuba Krzysztof , Kozłowski Paweł
Published: November 2020

The results of the study on threading dislocation density (TDD) in homo- and heteroepitaxial GaSb-based structures (metamorphic layers, material grown by applying interfacial misfit array (IMF) and complex structures) deposited using molecular beam epitaxy are presented. Three measurement techniques were considered: high-resolution x-ray diffraction (HRXRD), etch pit density (EPD), and counting tapers on images obtained using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Additionally, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was used for selected samples. The density of dislocations determined using these methods varied, e.g., for IMF-GaSb/GaAs sample, were 6.5 × 108 cm−2, 2.2 × 106 cm−2, and 4.1 × 107 cm−2 obtained using the HRXRD, EPD, and AFM techniques, respectively. Thus, the value of TDD should be provided together with information about the measurement method. Nevertheless, the absolute value of TDD is not as essential as the credibility of the technique used for optimizing material growth. By testing material groups with known parameters, we established which techniques can be used for examining the dislocation density in GaSb-based structures.
Fabrication of Amphiphilic Graphene Oxide—Polyoxometalate with Temperature Response for Epoxidation of Olefin in Water
Authors: Wu Jinghui , Zheng Hongwei , Wang Chi , Gao Ya , Wang Xianze , Wang Xiaohong , Huo Mingxin
Published: November 2020

Here, amphiphilic graphene oxide–polyoxometalate (GO-POM) was fabricated using a new strategy involving control of the stacking of GO lamellae through phosphoric acid and exfoliation by H2O2. The additions of H3PO4 and H2O2 were essential for the formation of the catalytic center of peroxo-POMs. The GO-POM hybrid had one side with hydrophilic properties and another side with hydrophobic properties, which conferred temperature-responding properties. GO-POM could catalyze the epoxidation of cyclooctene with complete conversion and 98% selectivity for epoxide at 50 °C for 12 h in water. Meanwhile, the catalyst could be easily recycled because of its thermosensitive property.
The Diagnosis of Autoimmune Pancreatitis Using Endoscopic Ultrasonography
Authors: Kanno Atsushi , Ikeda Eriko , Ando Kozue , Nagai Hiroki , Miwata Tetsuro , Kawasaki Yuki , Tada Yamato , Yokoyama Kensuke , Numao Norikatsu , Ushio Jun , Tamada Kiichi , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: November 2020

Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is characterized by enlargement of the pancreas and irregular narrowing of the main pancreatic duct. It is often associated with IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis (IgG4-SC), in which the bile duct narrows. Although characteristic irregular narrowing of the pancreatic duct caused by endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is noted in AIP, it is difficult to differentiate between localized AIP and pancreatic carcinoma based on imaging of the pancreatic duct. While stenosis of the bile duct in IgG4-SC is characterized by longer-length stenosis than in cholangiocarcinoma, differentiation based on bile duct imaging alone is challenging. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can characterize hypoechoic enlargement of the pancreas or bile duct wall thickening in AIP and IgG4-SC, and diagnosis using elastography and contrast-enhanced EUS are being evaluated. The utility of EUS-guided fine needle aspiration for the histological diagnosis of AIP has been reported and is expected to improve diagnostic performance for AIP. Findings in the bile duct wall from endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography followed by intraductal ultrasonography are useful in differentiating IgG4-SC from cholangiocarcinoma. Diagnoses based on endoscopic ultrasonography play a central role in the diagnosis of AIP.
Use and Abuse of Entropy in Biology: A Case for Caliber
Authors: Roach Ty N. F.
Published: November 2020

Here, I discuss entropy and its use as a tool in fields of biology such as bioenergetics, ecology, and evolutionary biology. Statistical entropy concepts including Shannon’s diversity, configurational entropy, and informational entropy are discussed in connection to their use in describing the diversity, heterogeneity, and spatial patterning of biological systems. The use of entropy as a measure of biological complexity is also discussed, and I explore the extension of thermodynamic entropy principles to open, nonequilibrium systems operating in finite time. I conclude with suggestions for use of caliber, a metric similar to entropy but for time-dependent trajectories rather than static distributions, and propose the complementary notion of path information.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Integrated Process Planning and Scheduling Considering Energy Savings
Authors: Zhang Xu , Zhang Hua , Yao Jin
Published: November 2020

With the emergence of the concept of green manufacturing, more manufacturers have attached importance to energy consumption indicators. The process planning and shop scheduling procedures involved in manufacturing processes can both independently achieve energy savings, however independent optimization approaches limit the optimization space. In order to achieve a better optimization effect, the optimization of energy savings for integrated process planning and scheduling (IPPS) was studied in this paper. A mathematical model for multi-objective optimization of IPPS was established to minimize the total energy consumption, makespan, and peak power of the job shop. A hierarchical multi-strategy genetic algorithm based on non-dominated sorting (NSHMSGA) was proposed to solve the problem. This algorithm was based on the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm Ⅱ (NSGA-Ⅱ) framework, in which an improved hierarchical coding method is used, containing a variety of genetic operators with different strategies, and in which a population degradation mechanism based on crowding distance is adopted. The results from the case study in this paper showed that the proposed method reduced the energy consumption by approximately 15% for two different scheduling schemes with the same makespan. The computational results for NSHMSGA and NSGA-Ⅱ approaches were evaluated quantitatively in the case study. The C-metric values for NSHMSGA and NSGA-Ⅱ were 0.78 and 0, the spacing metric values were 0.4724 and 0.5775, and the maximum spread values were 1.6404 and 1.3351, respectively. The evaluation indexes showed that the NSHMSGA approach could obtain a better non-dominated solution set than the NSGA-Ⅱ approach in order to solve the multi-objective IPPS problem proposed in this paper.
Combined Optimal Torque Feedforward and Modal Current Feedback Control for Low Inductance PM Motors
Authors: Kasper Roland , Golovakha Dmytro
Published: November 2020

Small sized electric motors providing high specific torque and power are required for many mobile applications. Air gap windings technology allows to create innovative lightweight and high-power electric motors that show low phase inductances. Low inductance leads to a small motor time constant, which enables fast current and torque control, but requires a high switching frequency and short sampling time to keep current ripples and losses in an acceptable range. This paper proposes an optimal torque feedforward control method, minimizing either torque ripples or motor losses, combined with a very robust and computation-efficient modal current feedback control. Compared to well-known control methods based on the Clarke-Park Transformations, the proposed strategy reduces torque ripples and motor losses significantly and offers a very fast implementation on standard microcontrollers with high robustness, e.g., against measurement errors of rotor angle. To verify the accuracy of the proposed control method, an experimental setup was used including a wheel hub motor built with a slotless air gap winding of low inductance, a standard microcontroller and GaN (Gallium Nitride) Power Devices allowing for high PWM switching frequencies. The proposed control method was validated first by correlation of simulation and experimental results and second by comparison to conventional field-oriented control.
The Impact of Particles Comminution on Mechanical Durability of Wheat Straw Briquettes
Authors: Dyjakon Arkadiusz , Sobol Łukasz , Krotowski Mateusz , Mudryk Krzysztof , Kawa Krzysztof
Published: November 2020

Briquetting is one of the recommended biomass agglomeration processes. The material subjected to briquetting gains valuable functional features related to higher energy density, appropriate moisture content, and increased bulk density. However, the briquettes need high mechanical durability to maintain high quality during transportation, loading, and other logistic steps before they will be delivered to the final consumer and utilized for energy purposes. The mechanical durability depends on many factors, including the particles comminution of the compacted biomass. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the impact of particle comminution on the mechanical durability of wheat straw briquettes. The research was carried out in accordance with the international standard for solid biofuels PN-EN ISO 17831-1:2016-02. The briquettes were produced from three different fractions: 0–2 mm, 2–15 mm, and 15–45 mm. To obtain more data related to the mechanical durability of briquettes, the tests were also carried out outside the ISO standard conditions. During the investigations, the working chamber operation time was extended from 5 to 60 min, and the rotational speed of the working chamber was increased to 25 and 30 rpm, respectively. The results indicated that the mechanical durability index (Du) of briquettes decreases along with the increase in the particle size. According to the PN-EN ISO 17831-1:2016-02 standard, the highest mechanical durability was achieved for the 0–2 mm fraction (Du = 91.17%) followed by the 2–15 mm fraction (Du = 88.12%), and the lowest was achieved for the 15–45 mm fraction (Du = 84.48%). It was noticed that the increase in the working chamber operation time resulted in a decrease of the Du value. Moreover, the difference in mechanical durability (between t5 = 5 min and t60 = 60 min) was greater for a larger fraction (∆Du = 16.26% for 0–2 mm fraction, ∆Du = 21.04% for 2–15 mm fraction, and ∆Du = 23.43% for 15–45 mm fraction). It was also observed that the increase of the rotational speed of the working chamber caused a slight decrease in the value of the mechanical durability of briquettes for all investigated fractions.
Effects of Genotype, Storage Temperature and Time on Quality and Compositional Traits of Cherry Tomato
Authors: Distefano Miriam , Arena Elena , Mauro Rosario Paolo , Brighina Selina , Leonardi Cherubino , Fallico Biagio , Giuffrida Francesco
Published: November 2020

The experiment addressed the effects of two storage temperatures, namely 10 (T10) and 20 °C (T20), on main quality and functional traits of three cherry tomato cultivars (‘Eletta’, ‘Sugarland’ and ‘Ottymo’), after 0 (S0), 7 (S7) and 14 (S14) days of storage. At T10 both fruit weight and firmness were better retained during storage. At S14, T10 promoted fruit Chroma and overall fruit color deviation (ΔE*ab). Total polyphenols content (TPC) of fruits peaked at S7 (4660 mg GAE kg−1 DW) then declined at S14 (by 16%), with the highest values recorded at T10. Lycopene showed a similar trend, but with a higher average concentration recorded at T20 (488 mg kg−1 DW). β-carotene content peaked at S14, irrespective of the storage temperature. At S14, the concentrations of phytoene and phytofluene were higher at T20 (48.3 and 40.9 mg kg−1 DW, respectively), but the opposite was found at S7. ‘Sugarland’ and ‘Ottymo’ showed the highest ΔE*ab along storage, with the former cultivar proving the highest TPC and lycopene content, whereas ‘Eletta’ did so for phytoene and phytofluene. Our results suggest that unravelling the possible functional interactions among these three carotenoids would allow for a better orientation of breeding programs, targeting the phytochemical evolution of tomatoes during refrigerated storage.
Investigating Italian Consumer Preferences for Different Characteristics of Provolone Valpadana Using the Conjoint Analysis Approach
Authors: Sampalean Niculina Iudita , de-Magistris Tiziana , Rama Daniele
Published: November 2020

The objective of this paper was twofold. First, we estimated consumer preferences for an Italian cheese (Provolone Valpadana) with respect to several attributes and levels, such as price, origin certification, production system, ‘free from’ labelling, and brand. Second, we identified consumer clusters with similar preferences for various cheese characteristics. Preferences were estimated using the conjoint analysis method. Then, a cluster analysis was used to classify consumers into different (three) clusters followed by a market simulation. In all three clusters, the attribute most preferred by Italian consumers was the brand of the cheese: consumers preferred to purchase Provolone cheese having the lowest price, produced by Auricchio, bearing a European Union (EU) quality certification, produced organically, and non-lactose-free. The results of our study provide helpful information to food companies for better segmenting their market and targeting their consumers, as well as effectively promoting their products using brands, certifications as organic and lactose-free. This study contributes to the literature on consumer preference for the EU labelling scheme (voluntary and mandatory). To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate this combination of multiple labels displayed on the front of Italian cheese packaging.
RSM Optimization for the Recovery of Technofunctional Protein Extracts from Porcine Hearts
Authors: Parés Dolors , Toldrà Mònica , Camps Estel , Geli Juan , Saguer Elena , Carretero Carmen
Published: November 2020

Meat byproducts, such as the internal organs from slaughtered animals, are usually underutilized materials with low commercial value. The functional (emulsifying, gelling, and foaming) properties of soluble protein extracts derived from pork hearts were investigated, as well as their molecular weight distribution. A central composite design (CCD) for two process variables (pH and ionic strength of the extraction buffer) was used to foreknow the effects of the process conditions on the physicochemical characteristics and technofunctionality of the protein extracts by means of the response surface methodology (RSM). SDS-PAGE patterns of the heart protein solutions revealed multiple bands with molecular weights ranging from 15 to 220 kDa, mainly corresponding to sarcoplasmic, myofibrillar, as well as blood proteins. The best extraction conditions to obtain protein fractions with good foaming properties would correspond to acid pH (pH ≤ 5) and high salt content (2–4%). On the contrary, solutions recovered at pH > 5 with low NaCl contents were the ones showing better emulsifying properties. Regarding gelation ability, heat-induced gels were obtained from extracts at pH 6.5–8, which showed improved firmness with increasing NaCl content (2–4%). Satisfactory second-order polynomial models were obtained for all the studied response variables, which can be useful in guiding the development of functional ingredients tailored for specific uses to maximize applications.
Comparison of Finite Difference and Finite Volume Simulations for a Sc-Drying Mass Transport Model
Authors: Selmer Ilka , Farrell Patricio , Smirnova Irina , Gurikov Pavel
Published: November 2020

Different numerical solutions of a previously developed mass transport model for supercritical drying of aerogel particles in a packed bed [Part 1: Selmer et al. 2018, Part 2: Selmer et al. 2019] are compared. Two finite difference discretizations and a finite volume method were used. The finite volume method showed a higher overall accuracy, in the form of lower overall Euclidean norm (l2) and maximum norm (l∞) errors, as well as lower mole balance errors compared to the finite difference methods. Additionally, the finite volume method was more efficient when the condition numbers of the linear systems to be solved were considered. In case of fine grids, the computation time of the finite difference methods was slightly faster but for 16 or fewer nodes the finite volume method was superior. Overall, the finite volume method is preferable for the numerical solution of the described drying model for aerogel particles in a packed bed.
The Efficacy of School-Based Interventions in Preventing Adolescent Obesity in Australia
Authors: Buru Kakale , Emeto Theophilus I. , Malau-Aduli Aduli E. O. , Malau-Aduli Bunmi S.
Published: November 2020

Current trends suggest that adolescent obesity is an on-going and recurrent decimal that is still on the rise in Australia and the social burden associated with it can significantly cause low self-esteem and lack of confidence in personal body image in adulthood. Nonetheless, evidence-based prevention programs are not widely implemented in schools, even though they are commonplace for easy access to adolescents. The primary objective of this systematic review was to assess the scope and efficacy of adolescent obesity intervention strategies in Australian schools, to guide future research. Seven electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed school-based intervention articles written in the English language and targeting 12–18-year-old adolescents. Intervention characteristics were extracted, and quality, efficacy and outcome measures were assessed utilizing thirteen studies that met the inclusion criteria for this review. Most of the Australian adolescent obesity research emanated from the State of New South Wales and none were nationwide. Five studies successfully met all the requirements in all measured outcomes, four met at least one measured outcome and the remaining four were unsuccessful. Despite the weak evidence of intervention efficacy for most of the reviewed studies, school-based interventions with multi-component combinations of physical activity, nutrition and alignment to a theory yielded promising results. Our findings point to the need for future research to assess the perceptions of school stakeholders in relation to the barriers and enablers to establishing school-based prevention and intervention programs for adolescents.
Co-Creating and Evaluating an App-Based Well-Being Intervention: The HOW (Healthier Outcomes at Work) Social Work Project
Authors: Ravalier Jermaine M , Wainwright Elaine , Smyth Nina , Clabburn Oliver , Wegrzynek Paulina , Loon Mark
Published: November 2020

Stress and mental health at work are the leading causes of long-term sickness absence in the UK, with chronically poor working conditions impacting employee physiological and psychological health. Social workers play a significant part in the fabric of UK society, but have one of the most stressful occupations in the country. The aim of this project was to work with UK social workers to co-develop, implement, and evaluate a series of smartphone-based mental health initiatives. A Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach, consisting of semi-structured interviews and focus group and steering group discussions, was utilized to design the mental health and well-being interventions. Study efficacy was evaluated via a pre- and post-intervention survey and post-intervention semi-structured interviews. Interventions developed were psycho-educational, improved top-down and bottom-up communication, and provided access to a Vocational Rehabilitation Assistant for those struggling and at risk of sickness absence. Six months following dissemination, surveys demonstrated significant improvements in communication, and mean score improvements in four other working conditions. This project, therefore, demonstrates that co-developed initiatives can be positively impactful, despite post-intervention data collection being impacted by COVID-19. Future studies should build upon these findings and broaden the PAR approach nationally while taking a robust approach to evaluation.