bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the Potential of Commercial-Grade Carbon Black-Filled TPU for the 3D Printing of Compressive Sensors
Authors: Manganiello Claudio , Naso David , Cupertino Francesco , Fiume Orazio , Percoco Gianluca
Published: January 2019

The present research aims to exploit commercially available materials and machines to fabricate multilayer, topologically designed transducers, which can be embedded into mechanical devices, such as soft or rigid grippers. Preliminary tests on the possibility of fabricating 3D-printed transducers using a commercial conductive elastomeric filament, carbon black-filled thermoplastic polyurethane, are presented. The commercial carbon-filled thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), analyzed in the present paper, has proven to be a candidate material for the production of 3D printed displacement sensors. Some limitations in fabricating the transducers from a 2.85 mm filament were found, and comparisons with 1.75 mm filaments should be conducted. Moreover, further research on the low repeatability at low displacements and the higher performance of the hollow structure, in terms of repeatability, must be carried out. To propose an approach that can very easily be reproduced, only commercial filaments are used.
Hybrid 3D Shape Measurement Using the MEMS Scanning Micromirror
Authors: Yang Tao , Zhang Guanliang , Li Huanhuan , Zhou Xiang
Published: January 2019

A surface with large reflection variations represents one of the biggest challenges for optical 3D shape measurement. In this work, we propose an alternative hybrid 3D shape measurement approach, which combines the high accuracy of fringe projection profilometry (FPP) with the robustness of laser stripe scanning (LSS). To integrate these two technologies into one system, first, we developed a biaxial Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) scanning micromirror projection system. In this system, a shaped laser beam serves as a light source. The MEMS micromirror projects the laser beam onto the object surface. Different patterns are produced by controlling the laser source and micromirror jointly. Second, a quality wised algorithm is delivered to develop a hybrid measurement scheme. FPP is applied to obtain the main 3D information. Then, LSS helps to reconstruct the missing depth guided by the quality map. After this, the data fusion algorithm is used to merge and output complete measurement results. Finally, our experiments show significant improvement in the accuracy and robustness of measuring a surface with large reflection variations. In the experimental instance, the accuracy of the proposed method is improved by 0.0278 mm and the integrity is improved by 83.55%.
Origin of Blue Sapphire in Newly Discovered Spinel–Chlorite–Muscovite Rocks within Meta-Ultramafites of Ilmen Mountains, South Urals of Russia: Evidence from Mineralogy, Geochemistry, Rb-Sr and Sm-Nd Isotopic Data
Authors: Sorokina Elena S. , Rassomakhin Mikhail A. , Nikandrov Sergey N. , Karampelas Stefanos , Kononkova Nataliya N. , Nikolaev Anatoliy G. , Anosova Maria O. , Somsikova Alina V. , Kostitsyn Yuriy A. , Kotlyarov Vasiliy A.
Published: January 2019

Blue sapphire of gem quality was recently discovered in spinel–chlorite–muscovite rock within meta-ultramafites near the Ilmenogorsky alkaline complex in the Ilmen Mountains of the South Urals. More than 20 minerals were found in the assemblage with the blue sapphire. These sapphire-bearing rocks are enriched in LREE and depleted in HREE (with the negative Eu anomalies) with REE distribution similar to those in miascites (nepheline syenite) of the Ilmenogorsky alkaline complex. 87Sr/86Sr ratios in the sapphire-bearing rocks varied from 0.7088 ± 0.000004 (2σ) to 0.7106 ± 0.000006 (2σ): epsilon notation εNd is −7.8. The Rb-Sr isochrone age of 289 ± 9 Ma was yielded for the sapphire-bearing rocks and associated muscovite. The blue sapphires are translucent to transparent and they have substantial colorless zones. They occur in a matrix of clinochlore-muscovite as concentric aggregates within spinel-gahnite coronas. Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) analyses showed values with trace elements typical for “metamorphic” blue sapphires, with Ga/Mg < 2.7, Fe/Mg < 74, Cr/Ga > 1.5 (when Cr is detectable), and Fe/Ti < 9. Sapphires overlap “metasomatic” at “sapphires in alkali basalts” field on the FeO–Cr2O3–MgO–V2O3 versus FeO + TiO2 + Ga2O3 discriminant diagram. The sapphires formed together with the spinel-chlorite-muscovite rock during metasomatism at a contact of orthopyroxenites. Metasomatic fluids were enriched with Al, HSFE, and LILE and genetically linked to the miascite intrusions of Ilmenogorsky complex. The temperature required for the formation of sapphire–spinel–chlorite–muscovite rock was 700–750 °C and a pressure of 1.8–3.5 kbar.
Chemical Constituents of the Leaves of Peltophorum pterocarpum and Their Bioactivity
Authors: Li Yue-Chiun , Kuo Ping-Chung , Yang Mei-Lin , Chen Tzu-Yu , Hwang Tsong-Long , Chiang Chih-Chao , Thang Tran Dinh , Tuan Nguyen Ngoc , Tzen Jason T.C.
Published: January 2019

Two new sesquiterpenoids peltopterins A and B (compounds 1 and 2) and fifty-two known compounds were isolated from the methanol extract of P. pterocarpum and their chemical structures were established through spectroscopic and mass spectrometric analyses. The isolates 40, 43, 44, 47, 48, 51 and 52 exhibited potential inhibitory effects of superoxide anion generation or elastase release.
Production of a Novel Tetrahydroxynaphthalene (THN) Derivative from Nocardia sp. CS682 by Metabolic Engineering and Its Bioactivities
Authors: Mishra Ravindra , Dhakal Dipesh , Han Jang Mi , Lim Haet Nim , Jung Hye Jin , Yamaguchi Tokutaro , Sohng Jae Kyung
Published: January 2019

Nargenicin A1 is major secondary metabolite produced by Nocardia sp. CS682, with an effective antibacterial activity against various Gram-positive bacteria. Most Nocardia spp. have metabolic ability to produce compounds of diverse nature, so one-strain-many-compounds (OSMAC) approach can be applied for obtaining versatile compounds from these strains. In this study, we characterized a novel 1, 3, 6, 8-tetrahydroxynaphthalene (THN) derivative by metabolic engineering approach leading to the inactivation of nargenicin A1 biosynthesis. By using genome mining, metabolite profiling, and bioinformatics, the biosynthetic gene cluster and biosynthetic mechanism were elucidated. Further, the antibacterial, anticancer, melanin formation, and UV protective properties for isolated THN compound were performed. The compound did not exhibit significant antibacterial and cytotoxic activities, but it exhibited promising UV protection effects. Thus, metabolic engineering is an effective strategy for discovering novel bioactive molecules.
Synthesis, In Vitro Screening and Docking Studies of New Thiosemicarbazide Derivatives as Antitubercular Agents
Authors: Pitucha Monika , Karczmarzyk Zbigniew , Swatko-Ossor Marta , Wysocki Waldemar , Wos Maciej , Chudzik Kamil , Ginalska Grazyna , Fruzinski Andrzej
Published: January 2019

A series of thiosemicarbazide derivatives was designed and synthesized by reaction of carboxylic acid hydrazide with isothiocyanates. The molecular structures of the investigated thiosemicarbazides were confirmed and characterized by spectroscopic analysis. The conformational preference of carbonylthiosemicarbazide chain and intra- and intermolecular interactions in the crystalline state were characterized using X-ray analysis. The antituberculosis activity of the target compounds were tested in vitro against four Mycobacterium strains: M. H37Ra, M. phlei, M. smegmatis, M. timereck. The most active compounds were those with 2-pyridine ring. They exhibited lower minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values in the range 7.81–31.25 μg/mL in comparison to the other isomers. Compound 5 had activity against M. smegmatis at a concentration of 7.81 μg/mL whereas compound 2 had activity against all tested strains at a concentration of 15.625 μg/mL. The molecular docking studies were performed for investigated compounds using the Mycobacterium tuberculosis glutamine synthetase MtGS as their molecular target.
Targeting a Designer TIMP-1 to the Cell Surface for Effective MT1-MMP Inhibition: A Potential Role for the Prion Protein in Renal Carcinoma Therapy
Authors: Jiang Bingjie , Liu Jian , Lee Meng Huee
Published: January 2019

Renal carcinoma cells express Membrane Type 1-Matrix Metalloproteinase (MT1-MMP, MMP-14) to degrade extracellular matrix components and a range of bioactive molecules to allow metastasis and cell proliferation. The activity of MT1-MMP is modulated by the endogenous inhibitors, Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases (TIMPs). In this study, we describe a novel strategy that would enable a “designer” TIMP-1 tailored specifically for MT1-MMP inhibition (V4A/P6V/T98L; Kiapp 1.66 nM) to be targeted to the plasma membrane for more effective MT1-MMP inhibition. To achieve this, we fuse the designer TIMP-1 to the glycosyl-phosphatidyl inositol (GPI) anchor of the prion protein to create a membrane-tethered, high-affinity TIMP variant named “T1Pr αMT1” that is predominantly located on the cell surface and co-localised with MT1-MMP. Confocal microscopy shows that T1Pr αMT1 is found throughout the cell surface in particular the membrane ruffles where MT1-MMP is most abundant. Expression of T1Pr αMT1 brings about a complete abrogation of the gelatinolytic activity of cellular MT1-MMP in HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells whilst in renal carcinoma cells CaKi-1, the GPI-TIMP causes a disruption in MMP-mediated proteolysis of ECM components such as fibronectin, collagen I and laminin that consequently triggers a downstream senescence response. Moreover, the transduced cells also suffer from an impairment in proliferation and survival in vitro as well as in NOD/SCID mouse xenograft. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that the GPI anchor of prion could be exploited as a targeting device in TIMP engineering for MT1-MMP inhibition with a potential in renal carcinoma therapy.
The Complete Plastid Genome of Magnolia zenii and Genetic Comparison to Magnoliaceae species
Authors: Li Yongfu , Sylvester Steven Paul , Li Meng , Zhang Cheng , Li Xuan , Duan Yifan , Wang Xianrong
Published: January 2019

Magnolia zenii is a critically endangered species known from only 18 trees that survive on Baohua Mountain in Jiangsu province, China. Little information is available regarding its molecular biology, with no genomic study performed on M. zenii until now. We determined the complete plastid genome of M. zenii and identified microsatellites. Whole sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis using BI and ML methods were also conducted. The plastome of M. zenii was 160,048 bp long with 39.2% GC content and included a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 26,596 bp that separated a large single-copy (LSC) region of 88,098 bp and a small single-copy (SSC) region of 18,757 bp. One hundred thirty genes were identified, of which 79 were protein-coding genes, 37 were transfer RNAs, and eight were ribosomal RNAs. Thirty seven simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were also identified. Comparative analyses of genome structure and sequence data of closely-related species revealed five mutation hotspots, useful for future phylogenetic research. Magnolia zenii was placed as sister to M. biondii with strong support in all analyses. Overall, this study providing M. zenii genomic resources will be beneficial for the evolutionary study and phylogenetic reconstruction of Magnoliaceae.
Effects of Atmospheric and Room Temperature Plasma (ARTP) Mutagenesis on Physicochemical Characteristics and Immune Activity In Vitro of Hericium erinaceus Polysaccharides
Authors: Zhu Lingli , Wu Di , Zhang Henan , Li Qiaozhen , Zhang Zhong , Liu Yanfang , Zhou Shuai , Wang Wenhan , Li Zhengpeng , Yang Yan
Published: January 2019

The polysaccharide is the main active substance contained in Hericium erinaceus and is commonly used in the treatment of neurasthenia, tumors, and digestive diseases. Six intracellular polysaccharide components were obtained from H. erinaceus fruiting bodies cultivated by ARTP (atmospheric and room temperature plasma) mutagenic strain (321) and the original strain (0605), respectively. This study was designed to investigate the physicochemical characteristics of these polysaccharide components and their potential immunomodulatory activities on RAW264.7 macrophages. The results showed that the yield of fruiting body cultivated by mutated strain increased by 22% and the polysaccharide content improved by 16% compared with the original one owing to ARTP mutagenesis. The molecular weight distribution and the monosaccharide compositions of polysaccharide components from H. erinaceus induced by ARTP mutagenesis were significantly different from that of the original one. The NO, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, and TNF-α production activities of macrophages were enhanced by stimulation of 20% ethanol precipitated polysaccharides from H. erinaceus induced by ARTP mutagenesis. These results indicated that ARTP is an efficient and practical method for high polysaccharide content breeding of the H. erinaceus strain and this provided a reference for obtaining high quality resources and healthy product development from H. erinaceus.
MicroRNA-29a Attenuates Diabetic Glomerular Injury through Modulating Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Signaling
Authors: Tung Chun-Wu , Ho Cheng , Hsu Yung-Chien , Huang Shun-Chen , Shih Ya-Hsueh , Lin Chun-Liang
Published: January 2019

Diabetic nephropathy often leads to end-stage renal disease and life-threatening morbidities. Simple control of risk factors is insufficient to prevent the progression of diabetic nephropathy, hence the need for discovering new treatments is of paramount importance. Recently, the dysregulation of microRNAs or the cannabinoid signaling pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various renal tubulointerstitial fibrotic damages and thus novel therapeutic targets for chronic kidney diseases have emerged; however, the role of microRNAs or cannabinoid receptors on diabetes-induced glomerular injuries remains to be elucidated. In high-glucose-stressed renal mesangial cells, transfection of a miR-29a precursor sufficiently suppressed the mRNA and protein expressions of cannabinoid type 1 receptor (CB1R). Our data also revealed upregulated CB1R, interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, c-Jun, and type 4 collagen in the glomeruli of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic mice, whereas the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) was decreased. Importantly, using gain-of-function transgenic mice, we demonstrated that miR-29a acts as a negative regulator of CB1R, blocks the expressions of these proinflammatory and profibrogenic mediators, and attenuates renal hypertrophy. We also showed that overexpression of miR-29a restored PPAR-γ signaling in the renal glomeruli of diabetic animals. Collectively, our findings indicate that the interaction between miR-29a, CB1R, and PPAR-γ may play an important role in protecting diabetic renal glomeruli from fibrotic injuries.
Moss-Derived Mesoporous Carbon as Bi-Functional Electrode Materials for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries and Supercapacitors
Authors: Lei Wen , Liu Haipeng , Xiao Junlei , Wang Yang , Lin Liangxu
Published: January 2019

In this work, we reported a moss-derived biomass porous carbon (MPC) as a bi-functional electrode material for both the lithium–sulfur battery and the supercapacitor. The MPC was prepared from a high-temperature calcination procedure using the moss as the carbonaceous precursor. Using NaOH, the MPC was activated to give a mesoporous structure with a high specific surface area (1057.1 m2 g−1) and large pore volume (0.72 cm3 g−1). When it was used as the cathode material in lithium–sulfur batteries, the MPC material realized a sulfur loading and exhibited a remarkably improved electrochemical performance, i.e., a high discharge capacity of 1070 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C. This activated MPC also worked well as a capacitive electrode in supercapacitors, demonstrating a high specific capacitance of 332 F g−1 (scan rate of 1.0 A g−1) and a high capacity retention > 97% in a long-term cycle of 1000 charge/discharges. This work demonstrated a facile method for the utilization of activated waste biomass material for future clean energy applications.
Fracture Mechanics and Oxygen Gas Barrier Properties of Al2O3/ZnO Nanolaminates on PET Deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Chawla Vipin , Ruoho Mikko , Weber Matthieu , Chaaya Adib , Taylor Aidan , Charmette Christophe , Miele Philippe , Bechelany Mikhael , Michler Johann , Utke Ivo
Published: January 2019

Rapid progress in the performance of organic devices has increased the demand for advances in the technology of thin-film permeation barriers and understanding the failure mechanisms of these material systems. Herein, we report the extensive study of mechanical and gas barrier properties of Al2O3/ZnO nanolaminate films prepared on organic substrates by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Nanolaminates of Al2O3/ZnO and single compound films of around 250 nm thickness were deposited on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) foils by ALD at 90 °C using trimethylaluminium (TMA) and diethylzinc (DEZ) as precursors and H2O as the co-reactant. STEM analysis of the nanolaminate structure revealed that steady-state film growth on PET is achieved after about 60 ALD cycles. Uniaxial tensile strain experiments revealed superior fracture and adhesive properties of single ZnO films versus the single Al2O3 film, as well as versus their nanolaminates. The superior mechanical performance of ZnO was linked to the absence of a roughly 500 to 900 nm thick sub-surface growth observed for single Al2O3 films as well as for the nanolaminates starting with an Al2O3 initial layer on PET. In contrast, the gas permeability of the nanolaminate coatings on PET was measured to be 9.4 × 10−3 O2 cm3 m−2 day−1. This is an order of magnitude less than their constituting single oxides, which opens prospects for their applications as gas barrier layers for organic electronics and food and drug packaging industries. Direct interdependency between the gas barrier and the mechanical properties was not established enabling independent tailoring of these properties for mechanically rigid and impermeable thin film coatings.
Supramolecular Organogels Based on N-Benzyl, N′-Acylbispidinols
Authors: Medved’ko Alexey V. , Dalinger Alexander I. , Nuriev Vyacheslav N. , Semashko Vera S. , Filatov Andrei V. , Ezhov Alexander A. , Churakov Andrei V. , Howard Judith A. K. , Shiryaev Andrey A. , Baranchikov Alexander E. , Ivanov Vladimir K. , Vatsadze Sergey Z.
Published: January 2019

The acylation of unsymmetrical N-benzylbispidinols in aromatic solvents without an external base led to the formation of supramolecular gels, which possess different thicknesses and degrees of stability depending on the substituents in para-positions of the benzylic group as well as on the nature of the acylating agent and of the solvent used. Structural features of the native gels as well as of their dried forms were studied by complementary techniques including Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) and attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and small-angle X-ray scattering and diffraction (SAXS). Structures of the key crystalline compounds were established by X-ray diffraction. An analysis of the obtained data allowed speculation on the crucial structural and condition factors that governed the gel formation. The most important factors were as follows: (i) absence of base, either external or internal; (ii) presence of HCl; (iii) presence of carbonyl and hydroxyl groups to allow hydrogen bonding; and (iv) presence of two (hetero)aromatic rings at both sides of the molecule. The hydrogen bonding involving amide carbonyl, hydroxyl at position 9, and, very probably, ammonium N-H+ and Cl− anion appears to be responsible for the formation of infinite molecular chains required for the first step of gel formation. Subsequent lateral cooperation of molecular chains into fibers occurred, presumably, due to the aromatic π−π-stacking interactions. Supercritical carbon dioxide drying of the organogels gave rise to aerogels with morphologies different from that of air-dried samples.
The Effect of a Multidisciplinary Lifestyle Intervention on Obesity Status, Body Composition, Physical Fitness, and Cardiometabolic Risk Markers in Children and Adolescents with Obesity
Authors: Seo Young-Gyun , Lim Hyunjung , Kim YoonMyung , Ju Young-Su , Lee Hye-Ja , Jang Han Byul , Park Sang Ick , Park Kyung Hee
Published: January 2019

This study aimed to develop a multidisciplinary lifestyle intervention program targeted at children and adolescents with moderate to severe obesity, and assess the additional effects of exercise intervention when compared to usual care. Overall, the 103 enrolled participants were ≥85th percentile of age and sex-specific body mass index (BMI). Participants were divided into groups that received 16 weeks of either usual care or exercise intervention. The BMI z-score of the overall completers decreased by about 0.05 after the 16-week intervention (p = 0.02). After the intervention, only the exercise group had a significantly lower BMI z-score than the baseline score by about 0.1 (p = 0.03), but no significant group by time interaction effects were observed. At the 16-week follow-up, significant group by time interaction effects were observed in percentage body fat (%BF) (β = −1.52, 95%CI = −2.58–−0.45), lean body mass (LM) (β = 1.20, 95%CI = 0.12–2.29), diastolic blood pressure (β = −5.24, 95%CI = −9.66–−0.83), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (β = −1.67, 95%CI = −2.77–−1.01), and wall sit test score (β = 50.74, 95%CI = 32.30–69.18). We developed a moderate-intensity intervention program that can be sustained in the real-world setting and is practically applicable to both moderate and severe obesity. After interventions, the exercise group had lower %BF and cardiometabolic risk markers, and higher LM and leg muscle strength compared to the usual care group.
Socio-Demographic Factors and Body Image Perception Are Associated with BMI-For-Age among Children Living in Welfare Homes in Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: A Rahim Nur Nabilla , Chin Yit Siew , Sulaiman Norhasmah
Published: January 2019

Considering the double burden of malnutrition in Malaysia, data on malnourished children living in welfare homes are limited. This study aimed to determine the body weight status of children living in welfare homes and its associated factors. A total of 307 children aged 7–17 years old living in 15 selected welfare homes completed a standardized questionnaire, and their body weight and height were measured by trained researchers. There were 54.4% orphans, 23.8% abandoned children, and 21.8% children from problematic families. There were 51.5% boys and 48.5% girls; 52.4% were Malays, followed by 31.3% Indians, 12.7% Chinese, and 3.6% from other ethnic groups. The prevalence of overweight and obesity (23.1%) was higher than the prevalence of thinness (8.5%). In bivariate analyses, socio-demographic factors of age (p = 0.003), sex (p = 0.0001), ethnicity (p = 0.001), and welfare home enrollment status (p = 0.003), and psychological factors of self-esteem (p = 0.003), body shape dissatisfaction (p = 0.0001), and underestimation of body weight status (p = 0.002), were significantly associated with body mass index (BMI)-for-age. In the multiple linear regression analysis, children who were either Malays (β = 0.492) or Chinese (β = 0.678), with a status of being abandoned (β = 0.409), with body shape dissatisfaction (β = 0.457), and underestimated body weight status (β = 0.628) significantly explained 39.7% of the variances in higher BMI-for-age (F = 39.550; p < 0.05). Besides socio-demographic background, the current findings emphasized the importance of incorporating body image perception in an obesity prevention intervention program in welfare homes.
RETRACTED: Fabrication, Optimization, and Evaluation of Rotigotine-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles for Nose-To-Brain Delivery
Authors: Tzeyung Angeline , Md Shadab , Bhattamisra Subrat , Madheswaran Thiagarajan , Alhakamy Nabil , Aldawsari Hibah , Radhakrishnan Ammu
Published: January 2019

The objective of the present study was to develop, optimize, and evaluate rotigotine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (RNPs) for nose-to-brain delivery. Rotigotine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles were prepared by the ionic gelation method and optimized for various parameters such as the effect of chitosan, sodium tripolyphosphate, rotigotine concentration on particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The prepared nanoparticles were characterized using photon correlation spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction. The developed RNPs showed a small hydrodynamic particle size (75.37 ± 3.37 nm), small PDI (0.368 ± 0.02), satisfactory zeta potential (25.53 ± 0.45 mV), and very high entrapment efficiency (96.08 ± 0.01). The 24-h in vitro release and ex vivo nasal permeation of rotigotine from the nanoparticles were 49.45 ± 2.09% and 92.15 ± 4.74% while rotigotine solution showed corresponding values of 95.96 ± 1.79%and 58.22 ± 1.75%, respectively. The overall improvement ratio for flux and permeability coefficient were found to be 4.88 and 2.67 when compared with rotigotine solution. A histopathological study showed that the nanoparticulate formulation produced no toxicity or structural damage to nasal mucosa. Our results indicated that rotigotine-loaded chitosan nanoparticles provide an efficient carrier for nose-to-brain delivery.
An Evo-Devo Perspective on Analogy in Biology
Authors: Minelli Alessandro
Published: January 2019

To explain the amazing morphological and biomechanical analogy between two distantly related vertebrates as are a dolphin and a shark, an explanation exclusively framed in terms of adaptation (i.e., in terms of the Darwinian survival of the fittest) is far from satisfactory. The same is true, of course, of any other comparison between structurally similar, but phylogenetically unrelated organisms. A purely evolutionary argument does not throw any light on how the developmental processes of their ancestors could eventually evolve in such a way as to eventually produce these peculiar phenotypes (the arrival of the fittest). How does Nature play with animal and plant form? To address the issue of the evolution of possible forms, we cannot ignore that these are products of development. This invites adopting the integrated perspective, currently known as evolutionary developmental biology, or evo-devo. Paths through the maze of living forms are not satisfactorily explained in terms of pure geometrical transformations or of the adaptive value of the phenotypes eventually produced. The emergence of form is largely dependent on the intrinsic evolvability of the developmental processes that translate the genotype into phenotypes. As a consequence, development makes analogous structures more likely to evolve than a pure adaptationist argument would ever suggest.
Gyroton with the Corrugated Resonator
Authors: Kolosov Stanislav , Kurayev Alexander , Rak Alexey , Kurkin Semen , Badarin Artem , Hramov Alexander
Published: January 2019

A new type of high-power electronic device—a gyroton with a corrugated resonator—is described and investigated. Spatial bunching of the electron beam does not occur in this device, however, highly efficient electron beam power conversion into the rotating electromagnetic field power is possible. The rectilinear electron beam deviates from the axis by the slow TM11 wave, then it gives up longitudinal energy to the same wave with more than 78% efficiency, and an output power up to 30 MW. The developed mathematical model of the interaction of the relativistic electron beam with an irregular circular waveguide and resonator fields presented in this article can be used to calculate and optimize the processes occurring in various microwave electronic devices, such as gyrotrons, gyrotons, TWT, Gyro-TWT, and BWT.
Theoretical Modeling of Polymer Translocation: From the Electrohydrodynamics of Short Polymers to the Fluctuating Long Polymers
Authors: Buyukdagli Sahin , Sarabadani Jalal , Ala-Nissila Tapio
Published: January 2019

The theoretical formulation of driven polymer translocation through nanopores is complicated by the combination of the pore electrohydrodynamics and the nonequilibrium polymer dynamics originating from the conformational polymer fluctuations. In this review, we discuss the modeling of polymer translocation in the distinct regimes of short and long polymers where these two effects decouple. For the case of short polymers where polymer fluctuations are negligible, we present a stiff polymer model including the details of the electrohydrodynamic forces on the translocating molecule. We first show that the electrohydrodynamic theory can accurately characterize the hydrostatic pressure dependence of the polymer translocation velocity and time in pressure-voltage-driven polymer trapping experiments. Then, we discuss the electrostatic correlation mechanisms responsible for the experimentally observed DNA mobility inversion by added multivalent cations in solid-state pores, and the rapid growth of polymer capture rates by added monovalent salt in α -Hemolysin pores. In the opposite regime of long polymers where polymer fluctuations prevail, we review the iso-flux tension propagation (IFTP) theory, which can characterize the translocation dynamics at the level of single segments. The IFTP theory is valid for a variety of polymer translocation and pulling scenarios. We discuss the predictions of the theory for fully flexible and rodlike pore-driven and end-pulled translocation scenarios, where exact analytic results can be derived for the scaling of the translocation time with chain length and driving force.
A Three-Dimensional Nickel(II) Framework from a Semi-Flexible Bipyrimidyl Ligand Showing Weak Ferromagnetic Behavior
Authors: Dong Shin-Shan , Yang Chen-I
Published: January 2019

A semi-flexible bipyrimidyl ligand, 5,5′-bipyrimidin (bpym), was used for the self-assembly of a transition metal coordination polymer, resulting in the formation of a nickel(II) compound, [Ni(Br)2(bpym)2]n (1) with a three-dimemsional (3D) structure. Single-crystal X-ray analysis showed that compound 1 crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c and the structure represents a 3D (4,4)-connected bbe topological framework constructed of nickel(II) ions, twisted cis-μ-bpym and planar trans-μ-bpym groups. Magnetic characterization revealed that 1 shows antiferromagnetic coupling between the pyrimidyl-bridged Ni(II) ions along with weak ferromagnetism due to spin canting with a magnetic ordering below Tc = 3.4 K.
PEG-assisted Sol-gel Synthesis of Compact Nickel Oxide Hole-Selective Layer with Modified Interfacial Properties for Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Jung Kyu
Published: January 2019

As a p-type metal oxide, nickel oxide (NiO) has been extensively utilized for providing a favorable hole transport pathway in organic solar cells (OSCs). To obtain higher crystallinity, a post-annealing process at high temperature is required for the NiO layer. Therefore, fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass has been widely used for the substrate of NiO. However, the rough surface of the FTO substrate deteriorates the interfacial properties of the NiO layer, which hinders efficient charge extraction in OSCs. In this study, a facile polyethylene glycol (PEG)-assisted sol-gel synthesis of the compact NiO layer as the hole-selective layer is demonstrated. The compact NiO layer has a significantly uniform and smooth surface morphology, facilitating better interfacial properties for favorable charge transport. The modified interfacial properties outstandingly promote the charge migration and recombination blocking in OSCs. In addition, a hybrid structure with compact NiO and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) is designed to form a cascade charge extraction and passivate possible pinholes on the NiO layer. Consequently, the compact NiO layer enhances all the parameters determining the power conversion efficiency, including the open-circuit potential (Voc), short-circuit current density (Jsc), and fill factor (FF).
Popular Religion, Sacred Natural Sites, and “Marian Verdant Advocations” in Spain
Authors: Tatay-Nieto Jaime , Muñoz-Igualada Jaime
Published: January 2019

A relevant number of shrines, hermitages, monasteries, and pilgrimage routes in Spain are located within or near Natura 2000, a European network of protected core breeding and resting sites for rare and threatened species, and some rare natural habitat types. Given the growing interest in alternative conservation strategies and the geographical correlation between nature preserves and Sacred Natural Sites (SNS), this paper explores how religious devotions have made preservation possible in Spain. By an extensive literature review and interviews with long-established custodians of nonurban Marian sanctuaries, it looks at the development of plant-related allegorical titles, the multiple meanings of “Marian verdant advocations”, and the role popular religion has played in connecting theological insights with particular elements of natural ecosystems helping value and preserve the Spanish biocultural heritage. We found that 420 Marian titles directly refer to plant species or vegetation types and many of the nonurban Marian sacred sites are placed in well-preserved natural areas, some of them playing a human-related added value for most emblematic National Parks, like the sanctuaries of El Rocío (Doñana NP) and Covadonga (Picos de Europa NP). We conclude that there is a strong relationship between popular religion, Marian verdant titles, and nature conservation.
Air Quality Planning and the Minimization of Negative Externalities
Authors: Ravina Marco , Panepinto Deborah , Zanetti Mariachiara
Published: January 2019

The minimization of negative externalities is a key aspect in the development of a circular and sustainable economic model. At the local scale, especially in urban areas, externalities are generated by the adverse impacts of air pollution on human health. Local air quality policies and plans often lack of considerations and instruments for the quantification and evaluation of external health costs. Support for decision-makers is needed, in particular during the implementation stage of air quality plans. Modelling tools based on the impact pathway approach can provide such support. In this paper, the implementation of health impacts and externalities analysis in air quality planning is evaluated. The state of the art in European member states is reported, considering whether and how health effects have been included in the planning schemes. The air quality plan of the Piemonte region in Italy is then considered. A case study is analyzed to evaluate a plan action, i.e., the development of the district heating system in the city of Turin. The DIATI (Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell’Ambiente, del Territorio e delle Infrastrutture) Dispersion and Externalities Model (DIDEM model) is applied to detect the scenario with the highest external cost reduction. This methodology results are extensible and adaptable to other actions and measures, as well as other local policies in Europe. The use of health externalities should be encouraged and integrated into the present methodology supporting air quality planning. Efforts should be addressed to quantify and minimize the overall uncertainty of the process.
Hyperspectral Feature Extraction Using Sparse and Smooth Low-Rank Analysis
Authors: Rasti Behnood , Ghamisi Pedram , Ulfarsson Magnus O.
Published: January 2019

In this paper, we develop a hyperspectral feature extraction method called sparse and smooth low-rank analysis (SSLRA). First, we propose a new low-rank model for hyperspectral images (HSIs) where we decompose the HSI into smooth and sparse components. Then, these components are simultaneously estimated using a nonconvex constrained penalized cost function (CPCF). The proposed CPCF exploits total variation penalty, ℓ 1 penalty, and an orthogonality constraint. The total variation penalty is used to promote piecewise smoothness, and, therefore, it extracts spatial (local neighborhood) information. The ℓ 1 penalty encourages sparse and spatial structures. Additionally, we show that this new type of decomposition improves the classification of the HSIs. In the experiments, SSLRA was applied on the Houston (urban) and the Trento (rural) datasets. The extracted features were used as an input into a classifier (either support vector machines (SVM) or random forest (RF)) to produce the final classification map. The results confirm improvement in classification accuracy compared to the state-of-the-art feature extraction approaches.
RETRACTED: Estimation of Vegetation Productivity Using a Landsat 8 Time Series in a Heavily Urbanized Area, Central China
Authors: Zhang Meng , Lin Hui ,   Hua Sun, Cai Yaotong
Published: January 2019

Estimating the net primary production (NPP) of vegetation is essential for eco-environment conservation and carbon cycle research. Remote sensing techniques, combined with algorithm models, have been proven to be promising methods for NPP estimation. High-precision and real-time NPP monitoring in heterogeneous areas requires high spatio-temporal resolution remote sensing data, which are not easy to acquire by single remote sensors, especially in cloudy weather. This study proposes to fuse images of different sensors to provide high spatio-temporal resolution data for NPP estimation in cloud-prone areas. Firstly, the time series Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) with a spatial resolution of 30 m and a temporal resolution of 16 days, are obtained by the enhanced spatial and temporal adaptive reflectance fusion model (ESTARFM). Then, the time series NDVI data, combined with meteorological data are input into an improved Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CASA) model for NPP estimation. This method is validated by a case study of a heavily urbanized area, in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River in China. The results indicate that the NPP estimated by the fused NDVI data has more detailed spatial information than by using the MODIS data. The results show a strong correlation between the actual Landsat8 NDVI and the fused NDVI images, which means that the accuracy of synthetic NDVI images (a 16 day interval and a 30 m resolution) is reliable, and it can provide superior inputs for accurate estimations of a NPP time series. The correlation coefficient (R) and root mean square error between the NPP, based on the fused NDVI and the measured NPP, are 0.66 and 14.280 g C/(m2·yr), respectively, indicating a good consistency. The small discrepancy is caused by the uncertainties of fused NDVI, measurement errors, conversion errors, and other factors in the CASA model. In this study, we achieved NPP with high spatial and temporal resolutions, which can provide higher accuracies of NPP data for analyzing the carbon cycling heavily urbanized areas, compared with similar studies using mono-temporal NPP data. The spatio-temporal fusion technique is an effective way of generating high spatio-temporal resolution images from different sensors, thereby providing enough data for NPP monitoring in urbanized areas.
Analysis of Thermal Anomalies in Volcanic Areas Using Multiscale and Multitemporal Monitoring: Vulcano Island Test Case
Authors: Silvestri Malvina , Rabuffi Federico , Pisciotta Antonino , Musacchio Massimo , Diliberto Iole Serena , Spinetti Claudia , Lombardo Valerio , Colini Laura , Buongiorno Maria Fabrizia
Published: January 2019

Surface temperatures derived by 208 ASTER and L8 satellite imagery were analysed to test multiscale and multitemporal capability through available sets of thermal data to support the volcanic monitoring of Vulcano Island in Italy. The analysis of thermal historical series derived by ASTER and L8 shows that two are the main thermally active areas: La Fossa crater and the mud pool of Fangaia. In this work we aimed to assess the correlation between the satellite-retrieved temperatures with those measured during the daytime ground field campaign conducted within the same time period and, in particular cases, simultaneously. Moreover, nighttime data acquired by an airborne and field campaign were processed with the same methodology applied to satellite data for a multiscale approach verification. Historical meteorological data acquired from a weather station were also considered. Statistically significant correlations were observed between nighttime acquisitions and meteorological data. Correlations were also significant for temperature measured during the airborne campaign, while differences up to 50% with daytime acquisition during the ground field campaigns were observed. The analysis of the results suggests that within nighttime data acquisition, differences between satellite-derived temperatures and ground temperature measurements are considerably reduced; therefore nighttime data acquisition is recommended to detect thermal anomalies.
Automatic Target Recognition for Synthetic Aperture Radar Images Based on Super-Resolution Generative Adversarial Network and Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Shi Xiaoran , Zhou Feng , Yang Shuang , Zhang Zijing , Su Tao
Published: January 2019

Aiming at the problem of the difficulty of high-resolution synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image acquisition and poor feature characterization ability of low-resolution SAR image, this paper proposes a method of an automatic target recognition method for SAR images based on a super-resolution generative adversarial network (SRGAN) and deep convolutional neural network (DCNN). First, the threshold segmentation is utilized to eliminate the SAR image background clutter and speckle noise and accurately extract target area of interest. Second, the low-resolution SAR image is enhanced through SRGAN to improve the visual resolution and the feature characterization ability of target in the SAR image. Third, the automatic classification and recognition for SAR image is realized by using DCNN with good generalization performance. Finally, the open data set, moving and stationary target acquisition and recognition, is utilized and good recognition results are obtained under standard operating condition and extended operating conditions, which verify the effectiveness, robustness, and good generalization performance of the proposed method.
A Retrieval of Glyoxal from OMI over China: Investigation of the Effects of Tropospheric NO2
Authors: Wang Yapeng , Tao Jinhua , Cheng Liangxiao , Yu Chao , Wang Zifeng , Chen Liangfu
Published: January 2019

East China is the ‘hotspot’ of glyoxal (CHOCHO), especially over the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region, where glyoxal is yielded from the oxidation of aromatics. To better understand the glyoxal spatial-temporal characteristics over China and evaluate the effectiveness of atmospheric prevention efforts on the reduction of volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, we present an algorithm for glyoxal retrieval using the Ozone Monitoring instrument (OMI) over China. The algorithm is based on the differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) and accounts for the interference of the tropospheric nitrogen dioxide (NO2) spatial-temporal distribution on glyoxal retrieval. We conduct a sensitively test based on a synthetic spectrum to optimize the fitting parameters set. It shows that the fitting interval of 430–458 nm and a 4th order polynomial are optimal for glyoxal retrieval when using the daily mean value of the earthshine spectrum in the Pacific region as a reference. In addition, tropospheric NO2 pre-fitted during glyoxal retrieval is first proposed and tested, which shows a ±10% variation compared with the reference scene. The interference of NO2 on glyoxal was further investigated based on the OMI observations, and the spatial distribution showed that changes in the NO2 concentration can affect the glyoxal result depending on the NO2 spatial distribution. A method to prefix NO2 during glyoxal retrieval is proposed in this study and is referred to as OMI-CAS. We perform an intercomparison of the glyoxal from the OMI-CAS with the seasonal datasets provided by different institutions for North China (NC), South China (SC), the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) and the ChuanYu (CY) region in southwestern China in the year 2005. The results show that our algorithm can obtain the glyoxal spatial and temporal variations in different regions over China. OMI-CAS has the best correlations with other datasets in summer, with the correlations between OMI-CAS and OMI-Harvard, OMI-CAS and OMI-IUP, and OMI-CAS and Sciamachy-IUP being 0.63, 0.67 and 0.67, respectively. Autumn results followed, with the correlations of 0.58, 0.36 and 0.48, respectively, over China. However, the correlations are less or even negative for spring and winter. From the regional perspective, SC has the best correlation compared with other regions, with R reaching 0.80 for OMI-CAS and OMI-IUP in summer. The discrepancies between different glyoxal datasets can be attributed to the fitting parameters and larger glyoxal retrieval uncertainties. Finally, useful recommendations are given based on the results comparison according to region and season.
A Sensitive Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probe for Detecting Heavy Metal Ag+ in Water Samples
Authors: Zhang Yawen , Ye Aiying , Yao Yuewei , Yao Cheng
Published: January 2019

Silver is a common catalyst in industrial production, and the frequent use of Ag+ can cause water pollution. Thus, the detection of Ag+ in the environment is necessary to determine the level of pollution from silver. In this work, we designed a new, highly selective near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe QCy to detect Ag+. The probe exhibits “turn-off” fluorescence quenching responses at 760 nm towards Ag+ over other relevant cations, with outstanding sensitivity and a low detection limit (0.03 µM), which is considerably lower than the standard of the World Health Organization (WHO) for drinking water (0.9 µM). Meanwhile, QCy showed a very good linearity at a low concentration of Ag+ with a ‘naked eye’ visible color change of solution from blue to red. The probe has been applied successfully for the detection of Ag+ in real water samples.
Reinforcement Learning-Based Data Forwarding in Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks with Passive Mobility
Authors: Chang Haotian , Feng Jing , Duan Chaofan
Published: January 2019

Data forwarding for underwater wireless sensor networks has drawn large attention in the past decade. Due to the harsh underwater environments for communication, a major challenge of Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSNs) is the timeliness. Furthermore, underwater sensor nodes are energy constrained, so network lifetime is another obstruction. Additionally, the passive mobility of underwater sensors causes dynamical topology change of underwater networks. It is significant to consider the timeliness and energy consumption of data forwarding in UWSNs, along with the passive mobility of sensor nodes. In this paper, we first formulate the problem of data forwarding, by jointly considering timeliness and energy consumption under a passive mobility model for underwater wireless sensor networks. We then propose a reinforcement learning-based method for the problem. We finally evaluate the performance of the proposed method through simulations. Simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed method. Our method outperforms the benchmark protocols in both timeliness and energy efficiency. More specifically, our method gains 83.35% more value of information and saves up to 75.21% energy compared with a classic lifetime-extended routing protocol (QELAR).