bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer Cell Glycocalyx and Its Significance in Cancer Progression
Authors: Kang Hongyan , Wu Qiuhong , Sun Anqiang , Liu Xiao , Fan Yubo , Deng Xiaoyan
Published: August 2018

Cancer is a malignant tumor that threatens the health of human beings, and has become the leading cause of death in urban and rural residents in China. The glycocalyx is a layer of multifunctional glycans that covers the surfaces of a variety of cells, including vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, stem cells, epithelial, osteocytes, as well as cancer cells. The glycosylation and syndecan of cancer cell glycocalyx are unique. However, heparan sulfate (HS), hyaluronic acid (HA), and syndecan are all closely associated with the processes of cancer progression, including cell migration and metastasis, tumor cell adhesion, tumorigenesis, and tumor growth. The possible underlying mechanisms may be the interruption of its barrier function, its radical role in growth factor storage, signaling, and mechanotransduction. In the later sections, we discuss glycocalyx targeting therapeutic approaches reported in animal and clinical experiments. The study concludes that cancer cells’ glycocalyx and its role in cancer progression are beginning to be known by more groups, and future studies should pay more attention to its mechanotransduction of interstitial flow-induced shear stress, seeking promising therapeutic targets with less toxicity but more specificity.
Microtubule Hyperacetylation Enhances KL1-Dependent Micronucleation under a Tau Deficiency in Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Sudo Haruka
Published: August 2018

Enhanced microtubule acetylation has been identified as a negative prognostic indicator in breast cancer. We reported previously that primary cultured human mammary epithelial cells manifest breast cancer-related aneuploidization via the activation of severing protein katanin-like (KL)1 when tau is deficient. To address in this current study whether microtubule hyperacetylation is involved in breast carcinogenesis through mitosis, the effects of tubacin on human mammary epithelial cells were tested using immunofluorescence techniques. Tau-knockdown cells showed enhancement of KL1-dependent events, chromosome-bridging and micronucleation in response to tubacin. These enhancements were suppressed by further expression of an acetylation-deficient tubulin mutant. Consistently, using a rat fibroblast-based microtubule sensitivity test, it was confirmed that KL1 also shows enhanced activity in response to microtubule hyperacetylation as well as katanin. It was further observed in rat fibroblasts that exogenously expressed KL1 results in more micronucleation under microtubule hyperacetylation conditions. These data suggest that microtubule acetylation upregulates KL1 and induces more aneuploidy if tau is deficient. It is thus plausible that microtubule hyperacetylation promotes tumor progression by enhancing microtubule sensitivity to KL1, thereby disrupting spindle microtubules and this process could be reversed by the microtubule-binding and microtubule protective octapeptide NAPVSIPQ (NAP) which recruits tau to the microtubules.
The Na,K-ATPase-Dependent Src Kinase Signaling Changes with Mesenteric Artery Diameter
Authors: Zhang Lin , Aalkjaer Christian , Matchkov Vladimir V.
Published: August 2018

Inhibition of the Na,K-ATPase by ouabain potentiates vascular tone and agonist-induced contraction. These effects of ouabain varies between different reports. In this study, we assessed whether the pro-contractile effect of ouabain changes with arterial diameter and the molecular mechanism behind it. Rat mesenteric small arteries of different diameters (150–350 µm) were studied for noradrenaline-induced changes of isometric force and intracellular Ca2+ in smooth muscle cells. These functional changes were correlated to total Src kinase and Src phosphorylation assessed immunohistochemically. High-affinity ouabain-binding sites were semi-quantified with fluorescent ouabain. We found that potentiation of noradrenaline-sensitivity by ouabain correlates positively with an increase in arterial diameter. This was not due to differences in intracellular Ca2+ responses but due to sensitization of smooth muscle cell contractile machinery to Ca2+. This was associated with ouabain-induced Src activation, which increases with increasing arterial diameter. Total Src expression was similar in arteries of different diameters but the density of high-affinity ouabain binding sites increased with increasing arterial diameters. We suggested that ouabain binding induces more Src kinase activity in mesenteric small arteries with larger diameter leading to enhanced sensitization of the contractile machinery to Ca2+.
Time-Varying Communication Channel High Altitude Platform Station Link Budget and Channel Modeling
Authors: Liu Xiaoyang , Liu Hengyang , Liu Chao , Luo Ya
Published: August 2018

Because of the high BER (Bit Error Rate), low time delay and low channel transmission efficiency of HAPS (High Altitude Platform Station) in the near space. The link budget of HAPS and channel model are proposed in this paper. According to the channel characteristic, the channel model is set up, combined with different CNR (Carrier Noise Ratio), elevation angle, coding situations of wireless communication link by using Hamming code, PSK (Pulse Shift Keying) and Golay code respectively, then the situations of link quality and BER are analyzed. The simulation results show that the established model of the link budget and channel are suitable for the theoretical analysis results. The elevation of the HAPS communication link is smaller while the BER is increasing. The case of channel in the coding is better than in the un-coded situation. When every bit power and thermal noise power spectral density is larger, the BER of the HAPS communication link is becoming smaller.
The Co-Occurrence of Sexsomnia, Sleep Bruxism and Other Sleep Disorders
Authors: Martynowicz Helena , Smardz Joanna , Wieczorek Tomasz , Mazur Grzegorz , Poreba Rafal , Skomro Robert , Zietek Marek , Wojakowska Anna , Michalek Monika , Wieckiewicz Mieszko
Published: August 2018

Background: Sleep sex also known as sexsomnia or somnambulistic sexual behavior is proposed to be classified as NREM (non-rapid eye movement) parasomnia (as a clinical subtype of disorders of arousal from NREM sleep—primarily confusional arousals or less commonly sleepwalking), but it has also been described in relation to REM (rapid eye movement) parasomnias. Methods: The authors searched the PubMed database to identify relevant publications and present the co-occurrence of sexsomnia and other sleep disorders as a non-systematic review with case series. Results: In the available literature the comorbidity of sexsomnia and other sleep disorders were reported mainly in case reports and less in case series. Sexsomnia was reported both with one and with multiple sleep-related disorders, with NREM parasomnias and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) being the most commonly reported. Furthermore, the authors enrich the article with new findings concerning two novel cases of sleep bruxism triggering recurrent sexsomnia episodes. Conclusions: Sexsomnia has still not been reported in the literature as often as other parasomnias. The coexistence of sexsomnia and other sleep-related disorders should be more thoroughly examined. This could help both in sexsomnia as well as other sleep-related disorders management.
Albuminuria Increases All-Cause Mortality in Japanese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Miyake Hitomi , Kanazawa Ippei , Sugimoto Toshitsugu
Published: August 2018

Previous studies have reported that diabetic kidney disease is associated with cardiovascular events and death. Little is known about the independent association of albuminuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), with mortality in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) without renal failure. We conducted a historical cohort study to clarify this issue in Japanese patients with T2DM. In this study, we recruited 385 patients with T2DM, who never had chronic renal failure (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 at baseline) and malignant diseases. With the end point of all-cause mortality, Cox regression analysis was performed. During the observational period of 7 years, 54 patients died. Cox regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors such as age, duration of diabetes, body mass index, and HbA1c, and showed that urinary albumin level was significantly associated with the mortality [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.32, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.70 per standard deviation (SD) increase, p = 0.031]. After additional adjustment for eGFR, the association remained significant (HR = 1.32, 95% CI = 1.02–1.70 per SD increase, p = 0.033). On the other hand, eGFR was not associated with the mortality. The present study showed that higher urinary albumin was associated with increased all-cause mortality in T2DM, independently of eGFR. These findings suggest that, regardless of eGFR, albuminuria is important for the increased risk of mortality in Japanese T2DM patients without chronic renal failure (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2). However, because of several limitations, further large-scale longitudinal studies are necessary to confirm the present study.
Internal Loads, but Not External Loads and Fatigue, Are Similar in Young and Middle-Aged Resistance-Trained Males during High Volume Squatting Exercise †
Authors: Fernandes John F. T. , Lamb Kevin L. , Twist Craig
Published: August 2018

Little is known about the internal and external loads experienced during resistance exercise, or the subsequent fatigue-related response, across different age groups. This study compared the internal (heart rate, OMNI ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), session RPE) and external loads (peak velocity and power and volume load) during high volume squatting exercise (10 × 10 at 60% one-repetition maximum (1RM)) and the fatigue-related response (maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), voluntary activation (VA), resting doublet force, peak power, and blood lactate) in young (n = 9; age 22.3 ± 1.7 years) and middle-aged (n = 9; age 39.9 ± 6.2 years) resistance-trained males. All internal load variables and peak velocity illustrated unclear differences between groups during exercise. Peak power and volume load were likely higher in the young group compared to their middle-aged counterparts. The unclear differences in MVC, VA and blood lactate between groups after exercise were accompanied by very likely greater decrements in resting doublet force and peak power at 20 and 80% 1RM in the middle-aged group compared to the young group. These data indicate that internal load is not different between young and middle-aged resistance-trained males, though certain external load measures and the fatigue response are.
Autonomous Minimum Safe Distance Maintenance from Submersed Obstacles in Ocean Currents
Authors: Sands Timothy , Bollino Kevin , Kaminer Isaac , Healey Anthony
Published: August 2018

A considerable volume of research has recently blossomed in the literature on autonomous underwater vehicles accepting recent developments in mathematical modeling and system identification; pitch control; information filtering and active sensing, including inductive sensors of ELF emissions and also optical sensor arrays for position, velocity, and orientation detection; grid navigation algorithms; and dynamic obstacle avoidance, amongst others. In light of these modern developments, this article develops and compares integrative guidance, navigation, and control methodologies for the Naval Postgraduate School’s Phoenix submerged autonomous vehicle, where these methods are assumed available. The measure of merit reveals how well each of several proposed methodologies cope with known and unknown disturbances, such as currents that can be constant or harmonic, while maintaining a safe passage distance from underwater obstacles, in this case submerged mines. Classical pole-placement designs establish nominal baseline behaviors and are subsequently compared to performance of designs that are optimized to satisfy linear quadratic cost functions in regulators as well as linear-quadratic Gaussian designs. Feed-forward architectures and integral control designs are also evaluated. A noteworthy contribution is a very simple method to mimic optimal results with a “rule of thumb” criteria based on the design’s time constant. Since the rule-of-thumb method uses the assumed system model for computation of the control, it is particularly generic. Cited references each contain methods for online system parameter identification (with a motivation of use in the finding the control signal), permitting the rule of thumb’s generic applicability, since it is expressed in terms of the system parameters. This proposed method permits control design at sea where significant computation abilities are not available. Very simple waypoint guidance is also introduced to guide a vehicle along a preplanned path through a field of obstacles placed at random locations. The linear-quadratic Gaussian design proves best when augmented with integral control, and works well with reduced-order equations, while the “rule of thumb” design is seen to closely mimic the optimal performance. Feed-forward augmentation proves particularly efficient at rejecting constant disturbances, while augmentation with integral control is necessary to counter periodic disturbances, where the augmentations are also optimized in the linear-quadratic Gaussian procedures, yet can be closely mimicked by the proposed “rule of thumb” technique.
Mechanical and Dielectric Properties of Two Types of Si3N4 Fibers Annealed at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Zhou Jie , Ye Fang , Cui Xuefeng , Cheng Laifei , Li Jianping , Liu Yongsheng , Zhang Litong
Published: August 2018

The mechanical and dielectric properties of two types of amorphous silicon nitride (Si3N4) fibers prior to and following annealing at 800 °C were studied. The tensile strengths of the Si3N4 fiber bundles were measured using unidirectional tensile experimentation at room temperature, whereas the permittivity values were measured at 8.2–12.4 GHz using the waveguide method. The results demonstrated that the tensile strength and dielectric properties of Si3N4 fibers were correlated to the corresponding composition, microstructure, and intrinsic performance of electrical resistance. The Si3N4 fibers with a lower content of amorphous SiNxOy presented an improved thermal stability, a higher tensile strength, a higher conductivity, and a significantly stable wave-transparent property. These were mainly attributed to the highly pure composition and decomposition of less amorphous SiNxOy.
Efficacy of Proanthocyanidins from Pelargonium sidoides Root Extract in Reducing P. gingivalis Viability While Preserving Oral Commensal S. salivarius
Authors: Savickiene Nijole , Jekabsone Aiste , Raudone Lina , Abdelgeliel Asmaa S. , Cochis Andrea , Rimondini Lia , Makarova Elina , Grinberga Solveiga , Pugovics Osvalds , Dambrova Maija , Pacauskiene Ingrida M. , Basevičiene Nomeda , Viškelis Pranas
Published: August 2018

Bacterial resistance to antibiotics and the disruption of beneficial microbiota are key problems in contemporary medicine and make the search for new, more efficient infection treatment strategies among the most important tasks in medicine. Multicomponent plant-derived preparations with mild antibacterial activity created by many simultaneous mechanisms together with anti-inflammatory, innate immune and regenerative capacity-stimulating properties are good candidates for this therapy, and proanthocyanidins are among the most promising compounds of this sort. In this study, we have isolated proanthocyanidins from Pelargonium sidoides DC root extract and characterized and compared the composition, antioxidant properties and antibacterial activity of the proanthocyanidin fraction with those of the whole extract. The results revealed that proanthocyanidins had significantly stronger antioxidant capacity compared to the root extract and exhibited a unique antibacterial action profile that selectively targets Gram-negative keystone periodontal and peri-implant pathogenic strains, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, while preserving the viability of beneficial oral commensal Streptococcus salivarius. The finding suggests that proanthocyanidins from Pelargonium sidoides root extract are good candidates for the prolonged and harmless treatment of infectious diseases.
Delphi Prospection on Additive Manufacturing in 2030: Implications for Education and Employment in Spain
Authors: Pérez-Pérez M. Puerto , Gómez Emilio , Sebastián Miguel A.
Published: August 2018

The term additive manufacturing (AM) groups together a set of technologies with similar characteristics forming part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. AM is being developed globally, as evidenced by the standards published by and the agreements between the ISO and the ASTM in 2013. The purpose of this paper is to anticipate the main changes that will occur in AM by 2030 as forecast by more than 100 Spanish experts through Delphi prospection performed in 2018. In this way, the areas, aspects, and business models with the greatest probabilities of occurrence are obtained. The need for technical experts with specific knowledge and skills requires changes to current training syllabuses. Such changes will enable students to have the profiles foreseen in these job trends. The encouragement of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) training through the introduction of AM in study plans may be an appropriate alternative. Finally, the consequences of the Fourth Industrial Revolution for the employment market and on jobs, particularly in Spain, are set out and the latest Spanish Research, Development, and Innovation (R&D + I) plans are summarized as the framework for the possible implementation and development of AM.
Using Oxygen Plasma Pretreatment to Enhance the Properties of F-Doped ZnO Films Prepared on Polyimide Substrates
Authors: Chen Chih-Cheng , Wang Fang-Hsing , Chang Sheng-Cheng , Yang Cheng-Fu
Published: August 2018

In this study, a radio frequency magnetron sputtering process was used to deposit F-doped ZnO (FZO) films on polyimide (PI) substrates. The thermal expansion effect of PI substrates induces distortion and bending, causing FZO films to peel and their electrical properties and crystallinity to deteriorate. To address these shortcomings, oxygen (O2) plasma was used to pretreat the surface of PI substrates using a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition system before the FZO films were deposited. The effects of O2 plasma pretreatment time on the surface water contact angle, surface morphologies, and optical properties of the PI substrates were investigated. As the pretreatment time increased, so did the roughness of the PI substrates. After the FZO films had been deposited on the PI substrates, variations in the surface morphologies, crystalline structure, composition, electrical properties, and optical properties were investigated as a function of the O2 plasma pretreatment time. When this was 30 s, the FZO films had optimal optical and electrical properties. The resistivity was 3.153 × 10−3 Ω-cm, and the transmittance ratios of all films were greater than 90%. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy spectra of the FZO films, particularly the peaks for O1s, Zn 2p1/2, and Zn 2p3/2, were determined for films with O2 plasma pretreatment times of 0 and 30 s. Finally, a HCl solution was used to etch the surfaces of the deposited FZO films, and silicon-based thin-film solar cells were fabricated on the FZO/PI substrates. The effect of O2-plasma pretreatment time on the properties of the fabricated solar cells is thoroughly discussed.
Simulation of Laser Heating of Aluminum and Model Validation via Two-Color Pyrometer and Shape Assessment
Authors: Caiazzo Fabrizia , Alfieri Vittorio
Published: August 2018

The modeling of laser-based processes is increasingly addressed in a competitive environment for two main reasons: Preventing a trial-and-error approach to set the optimum processing conditions and non-destructive real-time control. In this frame, a thermal model for laser heating in the form of non-penetrative bead-on-plate welds of aluminum alloy 2024 is proposed in this paper. A super-Gaussian profile is considered for the transverse optical intensity and a number of laws for temperature-dependent material properties have been included aiming to improve the reliability of the model. The output of the simulation in terms of both thermal evolution of the parent metal and geometry of the fusion zone is validated in comparison with the actual response: namely, a two-color pyrometer is used to infer the thermal history on the exposed surface around the scanning path, whereas the shape and size of the fusion zone are assessed in the transverse cross-section. With an average error of 3% and 4%, the model is capable of predicting the peak temperature and the depth of the fusion zone upon laser heating, respectively. The model is intended to offer a comprehensive description of phenomena in laser heating in preparation for a further model for repairing via additive manufacturing.
Stress Corrosion Behaviors of 316LN Stainless Steel in a Simulated PWR Primary Water Environment
Authors: Huang Yong , Wu Weisong , Cong Shuo , Ran Guang , Cen Danxia , Li Ning
Published: August 2018

The effect of the strain rate, experimental temperature, Zn content in the test solution, and prefilming time on the mechanical properties was investigated by a tensile test with a slow strain rate, at a chemical solution of 2.2 ppm Li and 1200 ppm B in a static autoclave with 8.2 MPa. The experimental parameters clearly affected the tensile properties. The surface morphology, fractograph, and cross-sectional microstructure were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The δ (elongation) and UTS (ultimate tensile strength) of the samples tested in chemical solution were obviously lower than those of the samples tested under a nitrogen atmosphere. However, in general, all samples showed a ductile fracture characteristic and an excellent tensile property in all experimental conditions. The δ and UTS were first increased with increasing Zn content, and then decreased at both conditions of 9.26 × 10−7/s and 4.63 × 10−7/s strain rates. The difference values of tensile properties at different strain rates showed fluctuations with increasing Zn content. The δ increased with both increasing experimental temperature and prefilming time. The UTS first decreased with increasing prefilming time and then increased. The Iscc (stress corrosion cracking susceptibility) decreased with an increasing strain rate, experiment temperature, and prefilming time. Many particles with polyhedrons were formed on the sample surfaces, which was attributed to corrosion in a periodical location at the sample surface. The average length of the particles decreased with increasing Zn content, but increased with both increasing experimental temperatures and prefilming time. The corresponding mechanism is also discussed in this work.
The Prismatic Layer of Pinna: A Showcase of Methodological Problems and Preconceived Hypotheses
Authors: Dauphin Yannicke , Brunelle Alain , Medjoubi Kadda , Somogyi Andrea , Cuif Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2018

The prismatic layer of Pinna (Mollusca) is one of the most studied models for the understanding of the biomineralization mechanisms, but our knowledge of the organic components of this layer is limited to the proteins of the soluble organic matrices. The interplay of the mineral and organic matrices is studied using scanning electron and atomic force microscopy, infra-red spectrometry, thermogravimetric analyses, aminoacids analyses, thin layer chromatography (TLC), X-ray fluorescence, X-ray Absorption near Edge Structure (XANES) and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS). Proteins, polysaccharides and lipids are detected within the prisms and their envelopes. The role of the technical choices to study calcareous biominerals is evidenced, showing that a single analysis is not enough to decipher complex biominerals.
New Naphthalene Derivatives from the Bulbs of Eleutherine americana with Their Protective Effect on the Injury of HUVECs
Authors: Chen De-Li , Hu Mei-Geng , Liu Yang-Yang , Li Rong-Tao , Yu Meng , Xu Xu-Dong , Ma Guo-Xu
Published: August 2018

Five new naphthalene derivatives, named Eleutherols A–C (1–3) and Eleuthinones B–C (4,5), together with three known compounds were isolated from the bulbs of Eleutherine americana. Their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis including HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR techniques. These compounds exhibited a potent effect against the injury of human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVECs) induced by high concentrations of glucose in vitro.
In Vitro/In Vivo Metabolism of Ginsenoside Rg5 in Rat Using Ultra-Performance Liquid Chromatography/Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hong Chao , Yang Ping , Li Shuping , Guo Yizhen , Wang Dan , Wang Jianxin
Published: August 2018

Background: Ginsenoside Rg5 has been proved to have a wide range of pharmacological activities. However, the in vitro and in vivo metabolism pathways of ginsenosides are still unclear, which impedes the understanding of their in vivo fate. In this paper, the possible metabolic process of Rg5 was studied and the metabolites are identified. Methods: Samples from rat liver microsomes (RLMs) in vitro and from rat urine, plasma and feces in vivo were collected for analysis after oral administration of Rg5. A rapid analysis technique using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)/quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (QTOF-MS) was applied for detecting metabolites of Rg5 both in vitro and in vivo. Results: A feasible metabolic pathway was proposed and described for ginsenoside Rg5. A total of 17 metabolic products were detected in biological samples, including the RLMs (four), rat urine (two), feces (13) and plasma (four). Fifteen of them have never been reported before. Oxidation, deglycosylation, deoxidation, glucuronidation, demethylation and dehydration were found to be the major metabolic reactions of Rg5. Conclusions: The present study utilized a reliable and quick analytical tool to explore the metabolism of Rg5 in rats and provided significant insights into the understanding of the metabolic pathways of Rg5 in vitro and in vivo. The results could be used to not only evaluate the efficacy and safety of Rg5, but also identify potential active drug candidates from the metabolites.
Synergistic Effects of Active Sites’ Nature and Hydrophilicity on the Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity of Pt-Free Catalysts
Authors: Longhi Mariangela , Cova Camilla , Pargoletti Eleonora , Coduri Mauro , Santangelo Saveria , Patanè Salvatore , Ditaranto Nicoletta , Cioffi Nicola , Facibeni Anna , Scavini Marco
Published: August 2018

This work highlights the importance of the hydrophilicity of a catalyst’s active sites on an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) through an electrochemical and physico-chemical study on catalysts based on nitrogen-modified carbon doped with different metals (Fe, Cu, and a mixture of them). BET, X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), micro-Raman, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), and hydrophilicity measurements were performed. All synthesized catalysts are characterized not only by a porous structure, with the porosity distribution centered in the mesoporosity range, but also by the presence of carbon nanostructures. In iron-doped materials, these nanostructures are bamboo-like structures typical of nitrogen carbon nanotubes, which are better organized, in a larger amount, and longer than those in the copper-doped material. Electrochemical ORR results highlight that the presence of iron and nitrogen carbon nanotubes is beneficial to the electroactivity of these materials, but also that the hydrophilicity of the active site is an important parameter affecting electrocatalytic properties. The most active material contains a mixture of Fe and Cu.
A DFT Study on the Adsorption of H2S and SO2 on Ni Doped MoS2 Monolayer
Authors: Wei Huangli , Gui Yingang , Kang Jian , Wang Weibo , Tang Chao
Published: August 2018

In this paper, a Ni-doped MoS2 monolayer (Ni-MoS2) has been proposed as a novel gas adsorbent to be used in SF6-insulated equipment. Based on the first-principles calculation, the adsorption properties of Ni-MoS2 to SO2 and H2S molecules, the main decomposition components of SF6 under a partial discharge (PD) condition have been studied. The adsorption energy, charge transfer, and structural parameters have been analyzed to find the most stable gas-adsorbed Ni-MoS2. Furthermore, the density of states (DOS), projected density of states (PDOS), and electron density difference were employed to explore the interaction mechanism between SO2, H2S, and the Ni-MoS2 surface. It is found that the H2S molecule and SO2 molecule interact with the Ni-MoS2 surface by strong adsorption energy. Therefore, we conclude that the interaction between these two kinds of gases and the Ni-MoS2 monolayer belongs to chemisorption, and the Ni-MoS2 monolayer might be a promising gas adsorbent for the fault recovery of SF6-insulated equipment. Additionally, we have to point out that all of the conclusions only considered the final adsorption energy, the barrier in the transition state has not been analyzed in this paper.
Environment-Friendly Poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) as an Innovative Consolidant for Ancient Wall Paintings
Authors: Zhang Yuanyuan , Li Xuanhua , Wei Bingqing
Published: August 2018

The research of innovative materials on the conservation of ancient wall paintings has given rise to increased attention in recent years. One of the most used synthetic organic consolidation material for the wall paintings is the commercial acrylic resin Paraloid B72 (PB 72), which encounters problems of the use of toxic solvents, low water vapor transmission, and poor penetration. Here, the non-toxic, environment-friendly product poly(2-ethyl-2-oxazoline) (PEOX) has been demonstrated as a great potential consolidant for wall paintings to solve these issues. First of all, thanks to the better penetration ability, the simulating plaster sample treated with PEOX shows greater enhanced surface hardness than PB 72. The single-lap joint shear strength test and the scotch tape test revealed the good adhesion of PEOX on inorganic surfaces and effective pigment consolidation. At the same time, the PEOX-treated sample presents less surface gloss. The hydrophilic nature of PEOX merits itself with superior water vapor permeability compared with PB 72. These advantages enable PEOX to be a progressive choice to replace the use of PB 72 in the controlled indoor working environment.
Exploring the Feasibility of Use of An Online Dietary Assessment Tool (myfood24) in Women with Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Gianfrancesco Carla , Darwin Zoe , McGowan Linda , Smith Debbie M. , Haddrill Roz , Carter Michelle , Scott Eleanor M. , Alwan Nisreen A. , Morris Michelle A. , Albar Salwa A. , Cade Janet E.
Published: August 2018

myfood24 is an online 24 hr dietary recall tool developed for nutritional epidemiological research. Its clinical application has been unexplored. This mixed methods study explores the feasibility and usability of myfood24 as a food record in a clinical population, women with gestational diabetes (GDM). Women were asked to complete five myfood24 food records, followed by a user questionnaire (including the System Usability Scale (SUS), a measure of usability), and were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview. Of the 199 participants, the mean age was 33 years, mean booking body mass index (BMI) 29.7 kg/m2, 36% primiparous, 57% White, 33% Asian. Of these, 121 (61%) completed myfood24 at least once and 73 (37%) completed the user questionnaire; 15 were interviewed. The SUS was found to be good (mean 70.9, 95% CI 67.1, 74.6). Interviews identified areas for improvement, including optimisation for mobile devices, and as a clinical management tool. This study demonstrates that myfood24 can be used as an online food record in a clinical population, and has the potential to support self-management in women with GDM. However, results should be interpreted cautiously given the responders’ demographic characteristics. Further research to explore the barriers and facilitators of uptake in people from ethnic minority and lower socioeconomic backgrounds is recommended.
Influences of Fluorine Substituents on Iminopyridine Fe(II)- and Co(II)-Catalyzed Isoprene Polymerization
Authors: Zhu Guangqian , Zhang Xianhui , Zhao Mengmeng , Wang Liang , Jing Chuyang , Wang Peng , Wang Xiaowu , Wang Qinggang
Published: August 2018

A series of iminopyridine complexes of Fe(II) and Co(II) complexes bearing fluorinated aryl substituents were synthesized for the polymerization of isoprene. The structures of complexes 3a, 2b and 3b were determined by X-ray diffraction analysis. Complex 3a contained two iminopyridine ligands coordinated to the iron metal center forming an octahedral geometry, whereas 2b adopted a chloro-bridged dimer, and 3b featured with two patterns of cobalt centers bridged via chlorine atoms. Complexes 2b and 3b represented rare examples of chlorine bridged bimetallic Co(II) complexes. The fluorine substituents effects, particularly on catalytic activity and polymer properties such as molecular weight and regio-/stereo-selectivity were investigated when these complexes were employed for isoprene polymerization. Among the Fe(II)/methylaluminoxane (MAO) systems, the 4-CF3 substituted iminopyridine Fe(II) complex 1a was found as a highly active isoprene polymerization catalyst exhibiting the highest activity of 106 g·(mol of Fe)−1·h−1. The resultant polymer displayed lower molecular weight (Mn = 3.5 × 104 g/mol) and moderate polydispersity index (PDI = 2.1). Furthermore, the ratio of cis-1,4-/3,4 was not affected by the F substituents. In the series of Co(II)/AlEt2Cl binary systems, complexes containing electron-withdrawing N-aryl substituents (R = 4-CF3, 2,6-2F) afforded higher molecular weights polyisoprene than that was obtained by the complex containing electron-donating N-alkyl substituents (R = octyl). However, ternary components system, complex/MAO/[Ph3C][B(C6F5)4] resulted in low molecular weight polyisoprene (Mn < 2000) with high trans-1,4-unit (>95%).
A Facile Synthetic Route to Amphiphilic Poly(Meta-Phenylene Ethynylene) and Poly(Meta-Phenylene Ethynylene)-Block-Polyisocyanide Using a Single Catalyst
Authors: Li Chonglong , Xu Xunhui , Xu Lei , Liu Na
Published: August 2018

An optically active, amphiphilic meta-phenylene ethynylene (m-PE) bearing a chiral amide pendant was designed and synthesized. Living polymerization of m-PE using alkyne-Pd(II) as the initiator afforded well-defined poly(meta-phenylene ethynylene) (m-PPE). These m-PPEs were found to have a stable helical conformation in THF, 1,4-dioxane, and CH3CN and showed split Cotton effects over the range of 245–400 nm. The positive first Cotton effect was observed at a wavelength of approximately 308 nm, and the negative second Cotton effect was observed at a wavelength of approximately 289 nm. The m-PPEs exhibited helical conformational changes in different mixed solvents and showed effective solvent-dependent helix inversion in CHCl3/THF solutions. The sign of the Cotton effect of m-PPE was inverted at 25 °C by varying the mixing ratio of THF and CHCl3. Finally, amphiphilic poly(meta-phenylene ethynylene)-block-polyisocyanide containing hydrophilic PPE and hydrophobic PPI segments were facilely prepared using Pd(II)-terminated m-PPE as the macroinitiator. This block copolymer can self-assemble into well-defined spherical nanostructures in a selective THF/CH3OH solution. This efficient polymerization will open up enormous opportunities for the preparation of functional amphiphilic block copolymers in a wide variety of fields.
Photocatalytic Inactivation of Enterobacter cloacae and Escherichia coli Using Titanium Dioxide Supported on Two Substrates
Authors: Aguas Yelitza , Hincapié Margarita , Sánchez Camilo , Botero Liliana , Fernández-Ibañez Pilar
Published: August 2018

The antibacterial photocatalytic activity of TiO2 supported over two types of substrates, borosilicate glass tubes (TiO2/SiO2-borosilicate glass tubes (BGT)) and low-density polyethylene pellets (TiO2-LDPE pellets), which were placed in a compound parabolic collectors (CPC) reactor, was evaluated against Enterobacter cloacae and Escherichia coli under sunlight. Three solar photocatalytic systems were assessed, suspended TiO2, TiO2/SiO2-BGT and TiO2-LDPE pellets, at three initial bacterial concentrations, 1 × 105; 1 × 103; 1 × 101 CFU/mL of E. coli and total bacteria (E. cloacae and E. coli). The solar photo-inactivation of E. coli was achieved after two hours with 7.2 kJ/L of UV-A, while total bacteria required four hours and 16.5 kJ/L of UV-A. Inactivation order of E. coli was determined, as follows, suspended TiO2/sunlight (50 mg/L) > TiO2-LDPE pellets/sunlight (52 mg/L) > TiO2/SiO2-BGT/sunlight (59 mg/L), the best E. coli. inactivation rate was obtained with TiO2-LDPE pellets/sunlight, within 4.5 kJ/L and 90 min. The highest total bacteria inactivation rate was found for TiO2/sunlight (50 mg/L) and TiO2-LDPE pellets/sunlight (52 mg/L), within 11.2 kJ/L and 180 min. TiO2 deposited over LDPE pellets was the most effective material, which can be successfully used for water disinfection applications. Bacterial regrowth was assessed 24 h after all photocatalytic treatments, none of those microorganisms showed any recovery above the detection limit (2 CFU/mL).
ERN: Edge Loss Reinforced Semantic Segmentation Network for Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Liu Shuo , Ding Wenrui , Liu Chunhui , Liu Yu , Wang Yufeng , Li Hongguang
Published: August 2018

The semantic segmentation of remote sensing images faces two major challenges: high inter-class similarity and interference from ubiquitous shadows. In order to address these issues, we develop a novel edge loss reinforced semantic segmentation network (ERN) that leverages the spatial boundary context to reduce the semantic ambiguity. The main contributions of this paper are as follows: (1) we propose a novel end-to-end semantic segmentation network for remote sensing, which involves multiple weighted edge supervisions to retain spatial boundary information; (2) the main representations of the network are shared between the edge loss reinforced structures and semantic segmentation, which means that the ERN simultaneously achieves semantic segmentation and edge detection without significantly increasing the model complexity; and (3) we explore and discuss different ERN schemes to guide the design of future networks. Extensive experimental results on two remote sensing datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach both in quantitative and qualitative evaluation. Specifically, the semantic segmentation performance in shadow-affected regions is significantly improved.
Assessment of Aquarius Sea Surface Salinity
Authors: Kao Hsun-Ying , Lagerloef Gary S. E. , Lee Tong , Melnichenko Oleg , Meissner Thomas , Hacker Peter
Published: August 2018

Aquarius was the first NASA satellite to observe the sea surface salinity (SSS) over the global ocean. The mission successfully collected data from 25 August 2011 to 7 June 2015. The Aquarius project released its final version (Version-5) of the SSS data product in December 2017. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the validation results from the Aquarius Validation Data System (AVDS) and other statistical methods, and to provide a general view of the Aquarius SSS quality to the users. The results demonstrate that Aquarius has met the mission target measurement accuracy requirement of 0.2 psu on monthly averages on 150 km scale. From the triple point analysis using Aquarius, in situ field and Hybrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM) products, the root mean square errors of Aquarius Level-2 and Level-3 data are estimated to be 0.17 psu and 0.13 psu, respectively. It is important that caution should be exercised when using Aquarius salinity data in areas with high radio frequency interference (RFI) and heavy rainfall, close to the coast lines where leakage of land signals may significantly affect the quality of the SSS data, and at high-latitude oceans where the L-band radiometer has poor sensitivity to SSS.
Simulation of Bidirectional Reflectance in Broken Clouds: From Individual Realization to Averaging over an Ensemble of Cloud Fields
Authors: Zhuravleva Tatiana , Nasrtdinov Ilmir
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we describe the results of simulating the bidirectional reflectance in three-dimensional (3D) cloud fields. For the calculations of reflectance, we use original statistical algorithms that ensure the effects of atmospheric sphericity and molecular absorption in the solar spectral range are accounted for. Cloud fields are simulated on the basis of a Poisson model of broken clouds; clouds are approximated by truncated paraboloids of rotation. The cloud heterogeneity effect on the averaging of reflection functions over an ensemble of cloud fields is estimated using numerical averaging of the stochastic radiative transfer equation, using a randomization. The simulation is performed for a mono-directional receiver with wavelength channels 0.55 and 2.15 µm, different realizations with small and moderate cloud fractions, and a set of sun-view geometries. With the appearance of an isolated cloud in the sky, the reflection function is determined by cloud presence/absence on the line of sight (LS), shading of LS by clouds/non-obscuration directed “toward the Sun,” and illumination of LS by cloud-reflected radiation. Passage to cloud fields gives rise to such additional factors as mutual shading and multiple scattering between clouds, which are mainly determined by cloud elements located near LS and directed “toward the Sun”. Strong fluctuations of reflectance as a function of the relative azimuth angle between sun and view directions in a specific realization are smoothed out after averaging over an ensemble of cloud fields. In interpreting the results of retrieving the cloud characteristics according to measurements of reflected radiation, it should be kept in mind that for fixed illumination conditions, the mean bidirectional reflectance may differ several-fold from bidirectional reflectance in a specific 3D cloud structure.
A Broad-Spectrum Sweet Taste Sensor Based on Ni(OH)2/Ni Electrode
Authors: Mao Yuezhong , Tian Shiyi , Gong Shuanglin , Qin Yumei , Han Jianzhong , Deng Shaoping
Published: August 2018

A broad-spectrum sweet taste sensor based on Ni(OH)2/Ni electrode was fabricated by the cyclic voltammetry technique. This sensor can be directly used to detect natural sweet substances in 0.1 M NaOH solution by chronoamperometry method. The current value measured by the sensor shows a linear relationship with the concentration of glucose, sucrose, fructose, maltose, lactose, xylitol, sorbitol, and erythritol (R2 = 0.998, 0.983, 0.999, 0.989, 0.985, 0.990, 0.991, and 0.985, respectively). Moreover, the characteristic value of this sensor is well correlated with the concentration and relative sweetness of eight sweet substances. The good correlation between the characteristic value of six fruit samples measured by the sensor and human sensory sweetness measured by sensory evaluation (correlation coefficient = 0.95) indicates that it can reflect the sweetness of fruits containing several sweet substances. In addition, the sensor also exhibits good long-term stability over 40 days (signal ratio fluctuation ranges from 91.5% to 116.2%). Thus, this broad-spectrum sensor is promising for sweet taste sensory application.
A Novel Method for Estimating Knee Angle Using Two Leg-Mounted Gyroscopes for Continuous Monitoring with Mobile Health Devices
Authors: Allseits Eric , Kim Kyoung Jae , Bennett Christopher , Gailey Robert , Gaunaurd Ignacio , Agrawal Vibhor
Published: August 2018

Tele-rehabilitation of patients with gait abnormalities could benefit from continuous monitoring of knee joint angle in the home and community. Continuous monitoring with mobile devices can be restricted by the number of body-worn sensors, signal bandwidth, and the complexity of operating algorithms. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel algorithm for estimating knee joint angle using lower limb angular velocity, obtained with only two leg-mounted gyroscopes. This gyroscope only (GO) algorithm calculates knee angle by integrating gyroscope-derived knee angular velocity signal, and thus avoids reliance on noisy accelerometer data. To eliminate drift in gyroscope data, a zero-angle update derived from a characteristic point in the knee angular velocity is applied to every stride. The concurrent validity and construct convergent validity of the GO algorithm was determined with two existing IMU-based algorithms, complementary and Kalman filters, and an optical motion capture system, respectively. Bland–Altman analysis indicated a high-level of agreement between the GO algorithm and other measures of knee angle.
An Exploration of the Debt Ratio of Ski Lift Operators
Authors: Falk Martin , Steiger Robert
Published: August 2018

This article examines the determinants of the debt-to-capital ratio of ski lift operators. The analysis is based on the total population of 248 ski lift operators in Austria. The median debt-to-capital ratio is 73%, with a highly skewed distribution, where almost every fourth operator exhibits negative equity capital. Robust regressions show that the debt-to-capital ratio significantly depends on the size of the ski area, elevation, location, presence of a neighboring ski area, supply of accommodation nearby, and the proportion of foreign overnight stays. However, the significance and magnitude of these factors differ between East and West Austria. For eastern Austria, larger ski operators, with neighboring resorts close by and a vast supply of accommodation, have a significantly lower debt-to-capital ratio. In western Austria, elevation and presence of a neighbor are significant predictors. Operators with a neighbor nearby exhibit a 15-percentage-point lower debt ratio.
Mapping and Understanding the Dynamics of Landscape Changes on Heterogeneous Mediterranean Islands with the Use of OBIA: The Case of Ionian Region, Greece
Authors: Kefalas George , Poirazidis Konstantinos , Xofis Panteleimon , Kalogirou Stamatis
Published: August 2018

Mediterranean islands contain heterogeneous landscapes, resulting from the complex interactions between natural and anthropogenic processes, and have significant ecological and conservation importance. They are vulnerable systems to global change and the monitoring of changes, induced by the interacting environmental drivers, is of particular importance for applying a sustainable management regime. The aim of this study was to detect and analyze the landscape dynamics and changes in landscape composition over a 30-year period on the Ionian Islands of Western Greece. State-of-the-art object-oriented image analysis on freely available remote sensing data such as Landsat images was employed achieving final mapping products with high spatial and thematic accuracy (over than 85%), and a transferable classification scheme. The main drivers of environmental change are tourism and associated activities, wildfires and livestock breeding which act in different ways and intensities within and between the islands. The repopulation of those islands, after a period of significant depopulation from the 1940s to the 1980s, and the boom of tourism since the mid-1970s prevented further land abandonment and the recultivation of abandoned land which indicates that tourism and agriculture can be complementary rather than competing economic sectors. Despite the significant increase of tourism, a general trend was observed towards increasing cover of high-density vegetation formations, such as shrublands and forests. At the same time, wildfires, which are in some cases associated with livestock breeding, continue to be an important vegetation degradation factor preventing further ecosystem recovery on the study islands.