bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Social Networks Meet D2D Communications: A Survey
Authors: Nitti Michele , Stelea George Alex , Popescu Vlad , Fadda Mauro
Published: January 2019

In the last few years, one of the main characteristics of the current technological development is the constantly increasing need for data exchange among various types of devices, both mobile and fixed. Within this context, the direct communications between devices has the potential to create new, location-based peer-to-peer applications and services, as well as to help offload traffic from the congested traditional cellular networks. The main hurdles for this kind of Device to Device (D2D) communications are throughput, spectral efficiency, latency and fairness. Most of these hurdles can be overcome by the use of the new Social IoT (SIoT) paradigm, of things and people involved together in the network, guided autonomously by social relationships following the rules set by their owners. This paper aims to investigate the state of the art of socially-driven D2D communications. Upon an initial analysis, we perform an in-deep literature investigation of the main directions in which social ties can improve D2D communication, draw conclusions and identify the research topics left open.
The Improvement of Flaw Detection by the Configuration of Uniform Eddy Current Probes
Authors: S. Repelianto Ageng , Kasai Naoya
Published: January 2019

In this review, the principles to detect flaws with uniform eddy currents were presented based on the shape and orientation of the excitation coils and detection coils of the probe. Techniques are applied to detect flaws like cracks, especially on the weld zone surface, of test pieces of non-magnetic and ferromagnetic materials, and have unique features which are immune to the effects of lift-off. In the technique of interest, almost all the probe models developed are the type with tangential rectangular excitation coils. The induction condition and the flaw signal for each probe were discussed based on the shape and orientation of the excitation coils and detection coils of the probe. Finally, the challenge of increasing sensitivity to detect flaws with a uniform eddy current was also presented.
Environmental Assessment in Neotropical Watersheds: A Multi-Factorial Approach
Authors: F. Celestino Elaine , F. Celestino Leandro , F. M. da Silva Jhony , A. L. Kashiwaqui Elaine , C. Makrakis Maristela , Makrakis Sergio
Published: January 2019

This study evaluated the environmental conditions of two watersheds selected on the basis of similarities in land use. The environmental conditions of the watersheds were analyzed using two geoprocessing methods and in situ evaluations by applying the rapid assessment protocol (RAP). Geospatial image processing was used to analyze land use, slope, soil classification, and rainfall, while RAP was used to evaluate the connectivity and size of riparian corridors. The results revealed varied uses of land with the landscape matrix in both watersheds, composed of agriculture, pasture, and urban centers. Urban centers were defined as spots and riparian zones as corridors. The analysis of environmental fragility considering all the geospatial variables, classified both watersheds as having medium fragility. The most fragile sites were the urban centers, which had a high slope and degraded riparian zone. Onsite assessments have shown that corridors do not have the size required by legislation; they are fragmented and unstructured, and they contain exotic species. We also propose that a multi-factorial approach be used to evaluate watersheds, associating geospatial assessments and onsite analyses that consider the limitations pointed out in each protocol. This reduces sampling errors and shows the actual state of conservation in riparian zones.
Demolition of Existing Buildings in Urban Renewal Projects: A Decision Support System in the China Context
Authors: Xu Kexi , Shen Geoffrey Qiping , Liu Guiwen , Martek Igor
Published: January 2019

Much of the rapid urbanization of China’s cities has occurred at the expense of the existing urban fabric. Across the nation, whole city blocks have been replaced with new structures, requiring large numbers of buildings to be demolished while still serviceable. This curtailed lifespan of existing buildings not only comes with an economic cost, but results in loss of urban culture, wastes resources, degrades the environment, exacerbates pollution, and inflames social conflict and instability. For the purpose of evaluating the merits of building demolition, this study develops a decision support system (DSS) for building demolition in the China context from the perspective of sustainable urban renewal. The indicators of this system cover economic, social, environmental, and institutional aspects of sustainable development. Meanwhile, both the individual characteristics of buildings and the external or extrinsic indicators at the neighborhood, local, or city level are taken into account. Based on exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), 24 critical indicators containing qualitative and quantitative factors are identified. These indicators are classified into six parameters: (1) service performance; (2) economic impact; (3) social identity; (4) local development; (5) building location; and (6) building safety. Empirical results reveal considerations of local development to be of greatest significance with the value of standardized factor loading standing at 0.911, followed by service performance (loading = 0.870) and building location (loading = 0.863), with social identity (loading = 0.236) ranking substantially lower. The findings contribute to the practice of urban renewal and, in particular, provide practical guidance to the building demolition decision-making process.
Performance Analysis of a Polling-Based Access Control Combining with the Sleeping Schema in V2I VANETs for Smart Cities
Authors: He Min , Guan Zheng , Bao Liyong , Zhou Zhaoxu , Anisetti Marco , Damiani Ernesto , Jeon Gwanggil
Published: January 2019

In vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), one of the important challenges is the lack of precise mathematical modeling taking into account the passive vacation triggered by the zero-arrival state of nodes. Therefore, a polling-based access control is proposed in this paper using a sleeping schema to meet the challenge of quality of service (QoS) and energy-efficient transport in VANET environments for smart cities. Based on IEEE 802.11p, it was developed in an attempt to improve the energy efficiency of the hybrid coordination function of controlled channel access (HCCA) through a self-managing sleeping mechanism for both the roadside unit (RSU) and on-board units (OBUs) or sensor nodes according to the traffic load in vehicle -to-infrastructure (V2I) scenarios. Additionally, a Markov chain was developed for analyzing the proposed mechanism, and the exact mathematical model is provided with regard to the passive vacation. Then, the performance characteristics—including the mean cyclic period, delay, and queue length—were accurately obtained. In addition, the closed-form expression of the quantitative relationship among sleeping time, performance characteristics, and service parameters was obtained, which can easily evaluate the energy efficiency. It was proven that theoretical calculations were completely consistent with simulation results. The simulation results demonstrate that the suggested method had much lower energy consumption than the standard strategy at the expense of rarely access delay.
Does Employees’ Participation in Decision Making Increase the level of Corporate Social and Environmental Sustainability? An Investigation in South Asia
Authors: Farooq Omer , Farooq Mariam , Reynaud Emmanuelle
Published: January 2019

Although previous studies have explored the role of legal framework, industry norms, innovation, and the use of clean technologies to achieve sustainability, they have paid little attention to the role of employees in increasing a firm’s sustainability performance. This article develops a model based on social identity theory and proposes that employees whose organizational identification is rooted in the sustainability of the firm can influence the sustainability strategy of the firm through the participation process. Data were obtained from 421 employees of large fast-moving consumer goods manufacturers. The findings demonstrate that employee participation has a strong positive effect on all the components of sustainability (environmental and societal). Moreover, the findings show that the impact of employee participation on the components of sustainability is moderated by organizational identification in such a way that if employees have a strong sense of identification with their organization, their participation in decision making has a greater impact on the sustainability of their organization.
Short-Term Wind Power Prediction Based on Improved Chicken Algorithm Optimization Support Vector Machine
Authors: Fu Chao , Li Guo-Quan , Lin Kuo-Ping , Zhang Hui-Juan
Published: January 2019

Renewable energy technologies are essential contributors to sustainable energy including renewable energy sources. Wind energy is one of the important renewable energy resources. Therefore, efficient and consistent utilization of wind energy has been an important issue. The wind speed has the characteristics of intermittence and instability. If the wind power is directly connected to the grid, it will impact the voltage and frequency of the power system. Short-term wind power prediction can reduce the impact of wind power on the power grid and the stability of power system operation is guaranteed. In this study, the improved chicken swarm algorithm optimization support vector machine (ICSO-SVM) model is proposed to predict the wind power. The traditional chicken swarm optimization algorithm (CSO) easily falls into a local optimum when solving high-dimensional problems due to its own characteristics. So the CSO algorithm is improved and the ICSO algorithm is developed. In order to verify the validity of the ICSO-SVM model, the following work has been done. (1) The particle swarm optimization (PSO), ICSO, CSO and differential evolution algorithm (DE) are tested respectively by four standard testing functions, and the results are compared. (2) The ICSO-SVM and CSO-SVM models are tested respectively by two sets of wind power data. This study draws the following conclusions: (1) the PSO, CSO, DE and ICSO algorithms are tested by the four standard test functions and the test data are analyzed. By comparing it with the other three optimization algorithms, the ICSO algorithm has the best convergence effect. (2) The number of training samples has an obvious impact on the prediction results. The average relative error percentage and root mean square error (RMSE) values of the ICSO model are smaller than those of CSO-SVM model. Therefore, the ICSO-SVM model can efficiently provide credible short-term predictions for wind power forecasting.
Sex Differences and Psychological Factors Associated with General Health Examinations Participation: Results from a Vietnamese Cross-Section Dataset
Authors: Vuong Quan-Hoang , Nghiem Kien-Cuong P. , La Viet-Phuong , Vuong Thu-Trang , Nguyen Hong-Kong T. , Ho Manh-Toan , Tran Kien , Khuat Thu-Hong , Ho Manh-Tung
Published: January 2019

This study focuses on the association of sex differences and psychological factors with periodic general health examination (GHE) behaviors. We conducted a survey in Hanoi and the surrounding areas, collecting 2068 valid observations; the cross-section dataset was then analyzed using the baseline category logit model. The study shows that most people are afraid of discovering diseases through general health examinations (76.64%), and the fear of illness detection appears to be stronger for females than for males (β1(male) = −0.409, p < 0.001). People whose friends/relatives have experienced prolonged treatment tend to show more hesitation in participating in physical check-ups (β2 = 0.221, p < 0.05). On the ideal frequency of GHEs, 90% of the participants agree on once or twice a year. The probability of considering a certain period of time as an appropriate frequency for GHEs changes in accordance with the last doctor visit (low probability of a health examination every 18 months) and one’s fear of potential health problems post-checkup (no fear raises probability of viewing a health examination every 6 months by 9–13 percentage points). The results add to the literature on periodic GHE in particular and on preventive health behaviors in general.
Comparison of Anti-Viral Activity of Frog Skin Anti-Microbial Peptides Temporin-Sha and [K3]SHa to LL-37 and Temporin-Tb against Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
Authors: Roy Maëva , Lebeau Lucie , Chessa Céline , Damour Alexia , Ladram Ali , Oury Bruno , Boutolleau David , Bodet Charles , Lévêque Nicolas
Published: January 2019

Temporins are anti-microbial peptides synthesized in the skin of frogs of the Ranidae family. The few studies to date that have examined their anti-viral properties have shown that they have potential as anti-viral therapies. In this work, we evaluated the anti-herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) activity of the temporin-SHa (SHa) and its synthetic analog [K3]SHa. Human cathelicidin LL-37 and temporin-Tb (Tb), previously demonstrated to have anti-HSV-1 properties, were used as positive controls. We observed that SHa and [K3]SHa significantly inhibit HSV-1 replication in human primary keratinocytes when used at micromolar concentrations. This anti-viral activity was equivalent to that of Tb, but lower than that of LL-37. Transcriptomic analyses revealed that SHa did not act through the modulation of the cell innate immune response, but rather, displayed virucidal properties by reducing infectious titer of HSV-1 in suspension. In contrast, pre-incubation of the virus with LL-37 suggests that this peptide does not act directly on the viral particle at non-cytotoxic concentrations tested. The anti-HSV-1 activity of LL-37 appears to be due to the potentiation of cellular anti-viral defenses through the induction of interferon stimulated gene expression in infected primary keratinocytes. This study demonstrated that SHa and [K3]SHa, in addition to their previously reported antibacterial and antiparasitic activities, are direct-acting anti-HSV-1 peptides. Importantly, this study extends the little studied anti-viral attributes of frog temporins and offers perspectives for the development of new anti-HSV-1 therapies.
Naturally Occurring Mutations within HBV Surface Promoter II Sequences Affect Transcription Activity, HBsAg and HBV DNA Levels in HBeAg-Positive Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Authors: Hao Ran , Xiang Kuanhui , Shi Yan , Zhao Dong , Tian Huifang , Xu Baohong , Zhu Yufang , Dong Huan , Ding Hai , Zhuang Hui , Hu Jie , Li Tong
Published: January 2019

Mutations in hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface promoter II (SPII) have not been well studied in hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)-positive chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients. We aimed to investigate SPII mutations in such patients and their biological and clinical impacts. Direct sequencing was used to detect SPII mutations in 106 HBeAg-positive treatment-naïve CHB patients with genotype C (82.1% (87/106) was C2) HBV infection. Results showed that mutation frequency in transcription factor (TF) unbinding region was significantly higher than that in TF binding region of SPII (C1: 3.4% vs. 1.3%; C2: 2.6% vs. 1.3%; p < 0.0001). Luciferase assay revealed distinct promoter activities among SPII mutants; especially SPII of G120A mutant had a 15-fold higher activity than that of wild-type (p < 0.001). In vitro experiments in HepG2 cells showed that G82A, A115C and G120A mutants increased the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) levels, while C18T had an opposite effect. G82A, A115C and G120A mutants boosted the intracellular HBV total RNA level. G120A mutation resulted in an increased HBV DNA level in vitro, consistent with the serological results in patients. Thus, novel SPII mutations would affect promoter activity, HBsAg, HBV DNA and HBV total RNA levels, suggesting their potential biological and clinical significances.
The Importance of Being Non-Defective: A Mini Review Dedicated to the Memory of Jan Svoboda
Authors: Vogt Peter K.
Published: January 2019

Jan Svoboda triggered investigations on non-defective avian sarcoma viruses. These viruses were a critical factor in the genetic understanding of retroviruses. They provided the single and unique access to the field and facilitated the discovery of the first oncogene src and of the cellular origin of retroviral oncogenes. They continue to be of importance as singularly effective expression vectors that have provided insights into the molecular functions of numerous oncogenes. Combined with the contributions to the validation of the provirus hypothesis, Jan Svoboda’s investigations of non-defective avian sarcoma viruses have shaped a large and important part of retrovirology.
Establishment of an Alphavirus-Specific Neutralization Assay to Distinguish Infections with Different Members of the Semliki Forest Complex
Authors: Henss Lisa , Yue Constanze , Kandler Joshua , Faddy Helen M. , Simmons Graham , Panning Marcus , Lewis-Ximenez Lia Laura , Baylis Sally A. , Schnierle Barbara S.
Published: January 2019

Background: Alphaviruses are transmitted by arthropod vectors and can be found worldwide. Alphaviruses of the Semliki Forest complex such as chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Mayaro virus (MAYV) or Ross River virus (RRV) cause acute febrile illness and long-lasting arthralgia in humans, which cannot be clinically discriminated from a dengue virus or Zika virus infection. Alphaviruses utilize a diverse array of mosquito vectors for transmission and spread. For instance, adaptation of CHIKV to transmission by Aedes albopictus has increased its spread and resulted in large outbreaks in the Indian Ocean islands. For many alphaviruses commercial diagnostic tests are not available or show cross-reactivity among alphaviruses. Climate change and globalization will increase the spread of alphaviruses and monitoring of infections is necessary and requires virus-specific methods. Method: We established an alphavirus neutralization assay in a 384-well format by using pseudotyped lentiviral vectors. Results: MAYV-specific reactivity could be discriminated from CHIKV reactivity. Human plasma from blood donors infected with RRV could be clearly identified and did not cross-react with other alphaviruses. Conclusion: This safe and easy to use multiplex assay allows the discrimination of alphavirus-specific reactivity within a single assay and has potential for epidemiological surveillance. It might also be useful for the development of a pan-alphavirus vaccine.
ANNUAL AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC FORECASTING USING DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
Authors: Šliupas Tomas
Published: January 2019

This paper describes annual average daily traffic (AADT) forecasting for the Lithuanian highways using a forecasting method used by Idaho Department for Transportation, growth factor, linear regression and multiple regression. AADT forecasts obtained using these methods are compared with the forecasts evaluated by traffic experts and given in references. The results show that the best Lithuanian traffic data are obtained using Idaho forecasting method. It is assumed that the curve of AADT change should be exponential in the future.
RESEARCH ON DRY PORT CONCEPT AS INTERMODAL NODE
Authors: Jaržemskis Andrius , Vasiliauskas Aidas Vasilis
Published: January 2019

The shortage of the free space in the port areas is the reason to search for alternatives. This paper focuses on the dry port concept which is a new approach to solving the mentioned problem. The dry port concept is based on moving of intermodal terminals further to hinterland from the port areas. It helps to avoid traffic bottlenecks, to connect cargo handling from the port with other types of cargo at one common transport centre and it can help develop the hinterland areas. The BSR Interreg III B NP project Inloc (Integrating logistics centre networks in the Baltic Sea Region) showed an initiative to elaborate the concept and to study the feasibility to attract transport operators. The research was done partly by the authors of the article – partners of the Inloc project. Common results of the dry port research and conclusions of the approach elaborated by the article authors are presented.
AUTOMOBILE BRAKING AND TRACTION CHARACTERISTICS ON THE DIFFERENT ROAD SURFACES
Authors: Sokolovskij Edgar
Published: January 2019

The present article depicts the results of the investigation into automobile braking parameters and traction characteristics on the different road surfaces. The results of the investigation into automobile braking (the automobile deceleration and coefficient of traction), while braking in winter conditions, i.e. on ice and snow, are presented. The values of deceleration of the automobile while braking on various non‐typical surfaces, on the asphalt, covered with the motor oil or resin, while driving across the petrol spot, and on other surfaces of the road, are presented. Such data are necessary while modelling the automobile's movement in various road conditions and while carrying out the examination of traffic accidents.
THE EVOLUTION OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT RESEARCH AND ITS DEVELOPMENT ISSUES
Authors: Jaržemskienė Ilona
Published: January 2019

Scientific papers related to intermodal transport research are reviewed in the article. Attention is focused on classification of scientific issues of intermodality. The methods, algorithms, models used for intermodal transport research are described. The areas of huge scientific focus and poor areas in intermodality research are highlighted.
Efficient Calculation of Non-local Thermodynamic Equilibrium Effects in Multithreaded Hydrodynamic Simulations of Solar Flares
Authors: Reep Jeffrey W. , Bradshaw Stephen J. , Crump Nicholas A. , Warren Harry P.
Published: January 2019

Understanding the dynamics of the chromosphere is crucial to understanding energy transport across the solar atmosphere. The chromosphere is optically thick at many wavelengths and described by non-local thermodynamic equilibrium (NLTE), making it difficult to interpret observations. Furthermore, there is considerable evidence that the atmosphere is filamented, and that current instruments do not resolve small-scale features. In flares, it is likely that multithreaded models are required to describe the heating. The combination of NLTE effects and multithreaded modeling requires computationally demanding calculations, which has motivated the development of a model that can efficiently treat both. We describe the implementation of a solver in a hydrodynamic code for the hydrogen level populations that approximates the NLTE solutions. We derive an accurate electron density across the atmosphere that includes the effects of nonequilibrium ionization for helium and metals. We show the effects on hydrodynamic simulations, which are used to synthesize light curves using a postprocessing radiative transfer code. We demonstrate the utility of this model on IRIS observations of a small flare. We show that the Doppler shifts in Mg ii, C ii, and O i can be explained with a multithreaded model of loops subjected to electron beam heating, so long as NLTE effects are treated. The intensities, however, do not match the observed values very well, which is due to assumptions about the initial atmosphere. We briefly show how altering the initial atmosphere can drastically alter line profiles and derived quantities and suggest that it should be tuned to preflare observations.
The Origin of Interstellar Turbulence in M33
Authors: Utomo Dyas , Blitz Leo , Falgarone Edith
Published: January 2019

We utilize the multi-wavelength data of M33 to study the origin of turbulence in its interstellar medium. We find that the H i turbulent energy surface density inside 8 kpc is ∼1–3 × 1046 erg pc−2, and has no strong dependence on galactocentric radius because of the lack of variation in H i surface density and H i velocity dispersion. Then, we consider the energies injected by supernovae (SNe), the magneto-rotational instability (MRI), and the gravity-driven turbulence from accreted materials as the sources of turbulent energy. For a constant dissipation time of turbulence, the SNe energy can maintain turbulence inside ∼4 kpc radius (equivalent to ∼0.5 R
25), while the MRI energy is always smaller than the turbulent energy within 8 kpc radius. However, when we let the dissipation time to be equal to the crossing time of turbulence across the H i scale height, the SNe energy is enough to maintain turbulence out to 7 kpc radius, and the sum of SNe and MRI energies is able to maintain turbulence out to 8 kpc radius. Due to lack of constraint in the mass accretion rate through the disk of M33, we cannot rule out the accretion driven turbulence as a possible source of energy. Furthermore, by resolving individual giant molecular clouds in M33, we also show that the SNe energy can maintain turbulence within individual molecular clouds with ∼1% of coupling efficiency. This result strengthens the proposition that stellar feedback is an important source of energy to maintain turbulence in nearby galaxies.
Infrared Echo and Late-stage Rebrightening of Nuclear Transient Ps1-10adi: Exploring the Torus with Tidal Disruption Events in Active Galactic Nuclei
Authors: Jiang Ning , Wang Tinggui , Mou Guobin , Liu Hui , Dou Liming , Sheng Zhenfeng , Wang Yibo
Published: January 2019

Tidal disruption events (TDEs) in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) have been overlooked for a long time but have recently been tentatively investigated. We report the discovery of a long-lasting, luminous mid-infrared (mid-IR) flare in PS1-10adi, which is a newly identified and highly energetic transient event occurring in an AGN. The IR luminosity of PS1-10adi, as well as other analogous events, is at least one order of magnitude higher than that of all known supernova, but can be well interpreted as the dust echoes of TDEs, whose ultrahigh IR energy is reprocessed from the dusty torus around the black hole. The torus dust is sublimating during the early stage of the outburst and probably leads to the observed rapid emergence of Fe ii lines. Moreover, the UV-optical rebrightening and contemporaneous X-ray onset after ∼1500 rest-frame days since the optical peak are also an intriguing feature of PS1-10adi that can be attributed to the interaction between the high-velocity outflow and the torus. We suggest that the luminous IR echo is a very typical phenomenon of TDEs in AGNs and may provide us an ideal opportunity to explore the torus properties.
Concussions in Sports
Authors: Provencher Matthew T. , Frank Rachel M. , Shubert Daniel J. , Sanchez Anthony , Murphy Colin P. , Zafonte Ross D.
Published: January 2019

Although concussions are common, they are complex, variable, and not entirely understood in terms of pathophysiology and treatment. The incidence of concussion is expected to continue to rise with the increased participation of youth in sports and improved awareness. The role of orthopedic surgeons in concussion management is murky. However, the existing literature does provide a foundation from which orthopedic surgeons who are exposed to concussed patients can function. [Orthopedics. 2019; 42(1):12–21.]
Signaling Cross-Talk between MHC Class II Molecular Conformers in Resting Murine B Cells
Authors: Drake James R
Published: January 2019

In addition to functioning as a ligand to engage TCRs and drive TCR signaling, MHC class II molecules are signaling molecules that generate a number of signals within APCs, such as B lymphocytes. Moreover, MHC class II signaling is critical for B cell activation and development of a robust humoral immune response. Murine class II molecules exist in two distinct conformational states, based primarily on the differential pairing of transmembrane domain GxxxG dimerization motifs (i.e., M1- and M2-paired class II). This laboratory has previously reported that the binding of a multimerized form of an anti–class II mAb that selectively recognizes M1-paired I-Ak class II drives intracellular calcium signaling in resting murine B cells and that this signaling is dependent on both src and Syk protein tyrosine kinase activity. In contrast, multimerized forms of two different anti–I-Ak mAbs that bind both M1- and M2-paired class II fail to elicit a response. In this report, a flow cytometry–based calcium flux assay is used to demonstrate that coligation of M1- and M2-paired I-Ak class II results in the active and selective inhibition of M1-paired I-Ak class II B cell calcium signaling by M2-paired class II molecules. Because M1- and M2-paired class II can be loaded with different sets of peptides derived from Ags acquired by distinct pathways of endocytosis, these findings suggest an MHC class II signaling–based mechanism by which CD4 T cells of differing specificities can either enhance or suppress B cell activation.
The aging male: Relationship between male age, sperm quality and sperm DNA damage in an unselected population of 3124 men attending the fertility centre for the first time
Authors: Colasante Alessandro , Minasi Maria Giulia , Scarselli Filomena , Casciani Valentina , Zazzaro Vincenzo , Ruberti Alessandra , Greco Pierfrancesco , Varricchio Maria Teresa , Greco Ermanno
Published: January 2019

Objective: the aim of our study was to put forward insights to treat any possible correlation among sperm quality, sperm DNA damage and male age as they may have fertility implications for men who choose to delay fatherhood. Materials and methods: Our study is a non-interventional retrospective analysis of 3124 semen samples from patients that were investigated for the conventional semen parameters. Tunel test assay was set up for the evaluation of the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). We applied the Kappa index to compare both the 1999 and the 2010 World Health Organization (WHO) reference criteria to evaluate the competence of such semen parameters categorization during the standard routine of our laboratory. Results: With regards to our findings, it is possible to underline a significant relationship between aging and semen volume (p = 0.001), motility (p = 0.009), semen viscosity (p < 0.003) and sperm DNA damage (p < 0.009). We found a trend when focusing on the semen concentration (p = 0.05). The analysis of sperm morphology did not show any influence with advancing age (p = 0.606). When comparing both the 1999 and the 2010 WHO scales we found no accordance in the appraisal of sperm morphology but a very good one in the evaluation of the other parameters. Conclusions: Conventional semen analysis represents the opportunity to draw up a proxy insight on the male fertility status even if semen quality can only indirectly assess the probability of pregnancy. Several studies have verified a decay in the male reproductive system, sperm quality and fertility with advancing age although the reported results are not yet conclusive. Our results substantially agree with those findings outlined in the literature. Moreover we find that the discrepancy between the two WHO reference scales would eventually lead to an improper diagnosis of infertility.
Pore network model of primary freeze drying
Authors: Vorhauer Nicole , Först P. , Schuchmann H. , Tsotsas E.
Published: January 2019

The pore scale progression of the sublimation front during primary freeze drying depends on the local vapor transport and the local heat transfer as well. If the pore space is size distributed, vapor and heat transfer may spatially vary. Beyond that, the pore size distribution can substantially affect the physics of the transport mechanisms if they occur in a transitional regime. Exemplarily, if the critical mean free path is locally exceeded, the vapor transport regime passes from viscous flow to Knudsen diffusion. At the same time, the heat transfer is affected by the local ratio of pore space to the solid skeleton. The impact of the pore size distribution on the transitional vapor and heat transfer can be studied by pore scale models such as the pore network model. As a first approach, we present a pore network model with vapor transport in the transitional regime between Knudsen diffusion and viscous flow at constant temperature in the dry region. We demonstrate the impact of pore size distribution, temperature and pressure on the vapor transport regimes. Then we study on the example of a 2D square lattice, how the presence of micro and macro pores affects the macroscopic progression of the sublimation front.   Keywords: pore size distribution; transitional vapor transport; pore network model; fractured sublimation front.
Impact of thin layer drying on bioactive compounds of jaboticaba (Plinia cauliflora) peel
Authors: Machry Karine , Morais Marcílio Machado , Rosa Gabriela Silveira da
Published: January 2019

Jaboticaba (Plinia cauliflora) is a Brazilian fruit with a high content of anthocyanins compounds. Peel corresponds to 30 % of the fruit weight and it is considerated a residue since just the pulp is used. The aim of this work was to analyze the convective drying process of the jaboticaba peels. Moisture content of dried peels showed a range of 7.17 to 13.26 (% w.b.). The results also reported that jaboticaba peels have high anthocyanins content (fresh: 1162.99 ± 41.35 mg/100g d.b) and it was possible to maintain these compounds even after the drying process (1052 to 1270 mg/100g d.b).Keywords: jaboticaba; peel; drying; residue; anthocyanins.
Drying of mangoes applying pulsed UV light as pre-treatment
Authors: Fernandes Fabiano Andre Narciso , Braga Thayane Rabelo , Silva Ebenezer Oliveira , Rodrigues Sueli
Published: January 2019

High intensity pulsed UV Light is a non-thermal treatment used in sanitization of fruits and vegetables. In this work, we have applied high intensity pulsed UV light as a pretreatment for convective air-drying evaluating the benefits of the pretreatment to the drying process and to the nutritional quality of the dried product. Mangoes were subjected to pulses of UV light. The pretreated samples were further dried in a convective oven-drier until 90% of the initial water content has been removed. Drying kinetics, water apparent diffusivity, vitamin B, vitamin C content and total carotenoids content were analyzed. Pulsed UV light showed to be an interesting pretreatment for mangoes given the higher nutritional content of the dried product. Keywords: mango; drying; ultraviolet; vitamins; kinetics
Capillary disconnect during drying in model porous media at different wettability
Authors: Rufai Ayorinde K , Crawshaw John P
Published: January 2019

We carried out drying studies on a 2.5D micromodel based on a thin section of a carbonate rock to investigate the impact of wettability on the capillary disconnect, the moment when liquid films de-pin from the external evaporating surface.  While this is coincident with the transition to low evaporation rate (diffusion limited) for deionized-water, our experiments show, the corner wetting films persisted after the transition to low evaporation rate for both water-wet and mixed-wet micromodels for brine, as solid salt continued to build up at the external evaporating surface. Fully oil wet micromodels showed a drying rate transition coincident with de-pinning. Keywords: Capillary; Liquid films; Micromodel; Wettability; Crystallization
Influence of drying conditions on process properties and parameter identification for continuous fluidized bed spray agglomeration
Authors: Strenzke Gerd , Golovin Ievgen , Wegner Maximilian , Palis Stefan , Bück Andreas , Kienle Achim , Tsotsas Evangelos
Published: January 2019

Agglomeration is a particle formulation process in which at least two primary particles are combined to form a new one. The growth of agglomerates depends on interactions of particles covered with wet spots that generated by depositions of binder droplets. This work experimentally compares the influence of external feed rate and sprayed binder content on product properties and process stability with internal separation at different drying conditions. Due to the identification of parameters a populations balance model (PBM) is developed. The PBM includes the agglomeration kernel function, which characterizes the kinetics, i.e. the rate at which primary particles build agglomerates. Keywords: spray fluidized bed agglomeration; drying; continuous process; internal separation; population balances
Microencapsulation of pumpkin seed oil by spray dryer under various process conditions and determination of the optimal point by RSM
Authors: Geranpour Mansoureh , Emam-Djomeh Zahra , Asadi Gholamhassan
Published: January 2019

The objective of this research was to microencapsulating the pumpkin seed oil (PSO) by the spray dryer and also investigating the effects of some process conditions on physicochemical properties of PSO microparticles. Inlet drying air temperature (140-180 ͦC), aspirator rate (55-75%), and peristaltic pump rate (5-15%) effects were studied. Moisture content (%W.b.), Microencapsulation Efficiency (MEE, %) and Peroxide value (POV, meq/kg sample) considered as model responses.  Consequently, the ideal drying state for microencapsulation of PSO as a result of optimizing by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) determined with the aim of minimizing the Moisture content and POV and maximizing the MEE. Keywords: Microencapsulation; spray dryer; pumpkin seed oil; optimization; RSM.
Influence of process conditions on quality of spouted bed dried okara
Authors: Kurozawa Louise Emy , Scafi Gabriel Alves de Oliveira , Lazarin Renan Alex
Published: January 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the spouted bed drying of okara with inert particles of polypropylene. A central composite rotatable design was carried out to verify the effect of drying air temperature and air flow on moisture content, techno-functional properties and trypsin inhibitors activity of dried product. Higher temperatures decreased emulsifying properties and trypsin inhibitor activity, probably due to thermal protein denaturation. In order to obtain a dried okara with maximum techno-functional properties and minimum moisture content and trypsin inhibitor activity, the optimal drying conditions were suggested: air temperature of 60ºC and air flow of 180 m3/h.Keywords: soy pulp; spouted bed drying; trypsin inhibitor activity; techno-functional properties; optimization
The consumption of exergy for lignite drying with different technologies: a comparative theoretical study
Authors: Yan Junjie , Liu Ming , Wang Shan , Liu Rongtang , Han Xiaoqu
Published: January 2019

Pre-drying is an effective method to upgrade lignite and broaden its utilization areas. Various drying technologies could be applied to pre-dry lignite. The drying temperature in these drying technologies are different, which means that energy at different grades is used in these dryers. To analyze the irreversibilities of drying process, the exergetic analysis models are developed in this study. The exergy feeding and consumption rates are defined as the indicators. Various lignite drying technologies are calculated and quantitatively compared. Results show that exergy consumption rate for steam fluid-bed dryer is the smallest, which is 432.6 kJ (kg H2O)-1. Keywords: lignite; drying technologies; exergy analysis; thermodynamics
Evolution of “Chili” Tunisian landrace durum wheat sprouts properties after drying
Authors: Jribi Sarra , Gliguem Hela , Nagy Andras , Gabor Zsolt Nagy , Szalóki-Dorkó Lilla , Naàr Zoltan , Bata-Vidàcs Ildiko , Marzougui Sarra , Cserhalmi Zsuzsanna , Debbabi Hajer
Published: January 2019

Sprouting is a green technology contributing in improving cereals and pulses nutritional properties. However sprouts have a high water content limiting their shelf-life. This research focused on the impact of drying technology on physico-chemical, functional and nutritional properties of Tunisian landrace durum wheat (Triticum durum)“Chili” sprouts for their use as a functional ingredient. Three technologies were evaluated: lyophilisation, micro-wave vacuum drying and oven drying at 50°C. Sprouted seeds flour properties were significantly (p<0.05) affected by the drying methods used. Lyophilisation led to the highest preservation of bioactive compounds followed by micro-wave vacuum drying. The way of evolution of physico-chemical and functional properties depended on drying method used. Keywords: Sprouts; drying; functional properties; bioactive compounds.
Investigation of 3D particle flow in a flighted rotating drum
Authors: Zhang Lanyue , Weigler Fabian , Jiang Zhaochen , Idakiev Vesselin , Mörl Lothar , Mellmann Jochen , Tsotsas Evangelos
Published: January 2019

To validate the particle motion in flighted rotating drum (FRD), a laboratory FRD was built and operated at 15% filling degree and 10 rpm rotation speed using plastic balls as bed material. The particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) and magnetic particle tracking (MPT) techniques were applied to investigate the particle flow behavior. The 3D particle flow was modeled by Discrete Element Method (DEM) with LIGGGHTS. The height of the barycenter of all overall particles and particle instantaneous velocity were calculated from PTV and DEM data. The 3D time-averaged particle velocity distributions obtained from MPT experiment and DEM simulation were compared.Keywords: flighted rotating drum; particle motion; particle tracking velocimetry; magnetic particle tracking; DEM simulation.
Study and optimization of freeze-drying cycles of a model probiotic strain
Authors: Verlhac Pierre , Vessot-Crastes Séverine , Degobert Ghania , Cogné Claudia , Andrieu Julien , Beney Laurent , Gervais Patrick
Published: January 2019

This work is based on the experimental study of the freeze-drying process to understand the impact of numerous factors on the survival rates of a model probiotic strain of Lactobacillus casei type. With the aim to find out if cell density in the matrix and survival rates are linked, we have studied the location of the cells after freeze drying inside a porous  matrix composed of a lactose basis with a polymer, the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in various amounts. The best survival rate were obtained at slow freezing rate for a formulation containing 5% (m/V) of lactose and 5% (m/V) of PVP. Keywords: Freeze-Drying; Freezing; Probiotics; L. Casei ATCC 393
Drying behavior, diffusion modeling of cuminum cyminum L. undergoing microwave-assisted fluidized bed drying
Authors: Askari Gholamreza , Babaki Atefe , Emamdjomeh Zahra
Published: January 2019

In order to conserve cuminum cyminum L. during long storage periods, the drying kinetics of this seed undergoing microwave-assisted fluidized bed dryer at various microwave output power (300, 600 and 900w), air velocity (10, 15 and 20 m/s) and air temperatures (45, 55 and 65ᵒc) were studied. The main aim of this research is developing a mathematical model of mass transfer to investigate the microwave-assisted fluidized bed drying of cuminum cyminum L. seed. In this paper, we tried to discover a good model to evaluate moisture effective diffusivity (Deff). Keywords: cuminum cyminum L, microwave-assisted drying, mathematical modeling,
The prediction model of moisture content’s stabilization during tobacco strip drying process
Authors: Zhang Mingjian , Huang Feng , Chen Qing , Wang Le , Wang Haisheng , Li Bin , Wang Bing
Published: January 2019

A mathematical model was established to predict the mean value and variance of tobacco strip during drying processing, based that the physical and chemical properties of tobacco strip as agriculture products show probability distributions. The results show that the model can predict the mean value of moisture content at different times, and there is a certain deviation in predicting the variance of moisture content at initial stage of drying process. However, the prediction value of the variance of tobacco strip is much more accurate while the moisture content is between 8% and 10%, which is the interval of quality requirements.Keywords: tobacco strip; drying; mean value;variance model.
Estimation of the apparent glass transition temperature of spray-dried emulsified powders and yeast powders by their flavor release behavior under temperature ramping conditions
Authors: Sultana A. , Zhu J. L. , Yoshii H.
Published: January 2019

Flavor release from powders depends on the glass transition temperature (Tg) and water absorption. This study reports a simple method to estimate the apparent Tg by aroma sensing upon flavor release from spray-dried powders. Four different wall materials (maltodextrin (MD), MD blends with fructose at 20 and 40wt%, and yeast cells) were used to encapsulate flavors by spray-drying. The apparent Tg values of MD and MD with 20 and 40wt% fructose were determined as 130, 110, and 75 °C, respectively, similar to those calculated by the Gordon–Taylor equation. The slow flavor release from dried-yeast powder afforded the highest Tg. Keywords: yeast; flavor; encapsulation; spray drying; aroma sensor.
Freeze dried quince (Cydonia oblonga) puree with the addition of different amounts of maltodextrin: physical and powder properties
Authors: Yüksel Hira , Ünlüeroğlugil Özle , Çalışkan Koç Gülşah , Dirim Safiye Nur
Published: January 2019

This study aims to determine the drying behavior of quince puree and as an adverse effect powdered sugar added quince puree with the addition of maltodextrin. The addition of powdered sugar increases the drying time and the total amount of energy and the same time slightly decreases the moisture content and water activity values. The color values and the properties on these values changed both with the addition of maltodextrin and powdered sugar. The density values, flow properties and reconstitution properties are significantly affected by the amount of maltodextrin in plain or powdered sugar added samples. Keywords: quince, freeze-drying, maltodextrin, powder properties
The investigation of internal pressure development in convective drying of shrinking and non-shrinking materials using green and fired clay as an example
Authors: Adamska Anna , Pakowski Zdzislaw , Adamski Robert
Published: January 2019

The aim of present research was to measure and analyze the dynamic changes of internal pressure in shrinking  vs.  non-shrinking materials during convective drying for the use as a possible process control method. Drying experiments were carried out on wet and fired clay at 50°C and 60°C. In addition, the shrinkage curve was investigated. Experimental measurements show the existence of 4 stages of the process. The comparison of the results for wet and fired clay shows differences in pressure trends. During drying the internal pressure changes from underpressure to overpressure at the level of 3÷5kPa, what correlates well with transition from the first to the second drying period. Keywords: ambient pressure drying; clay; shrinkage; pressure evolution
Drying the corn in a farm heat pump dryer with fluidized bed
Authors: Rudobashta Stanislav Pavlovich , Zueva Galina Albertovna , Dmitriev V.M. , Muravleva E.A.
Published: January 2019

The possibility of using a heat pump as a part of on-farm drying plant is considered taking drying of corn grain as an example. The methodology for kinetic calculations of a drying plant with a batch fluidized bed for granular materials is developed. These calculations are based on the use of an analytical solution for the problem of mass conductivity  and taking into account the time-related changes in drying agent parameters over the layer height. To determine the concentration dependence of the mass-conductivity coefficient, a zonal method has been used. Keywords: heat pump; dryer; kinetic calculation.