bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Compound Fault Feature Extraction Method Based on Multipoint Kurtosis and Variational Mode Decomposition
Authors: Cai Wenan , Yang Zhaojian , Wang Zhijian , Wang Yiliang
Published: July 2018

Due to the weak entropy of the vibration signal in the strong noise environment, it is very difficult to extract compound fault features. EMD (Empirical Mode Decomposition), EEMD (Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition) and LMD (Local Mean Decomposition) are widely used in compound fault feature extraction. Although they can decompose different characteristic components into each IMF (Intrinsic Mode Function), there is still serious mode mixing because of the noise. VMD (Variational Mode Decomposition) is a rigorous mathematical theory that can alleviate the mode mixing. Each characteristic component of VMD contains a unique center frequency but it is a parametric decomposition method. An improper value of K will lead to over-decomposition or under-decomposition. So, the number of decomposition levels of VMD needs an adaptive determination. The commonly used adaptive methods are particle swarm optimization and ant colony algorithm but they consume a lot of computing time. This paper proposes a compound fault feature extraction method based on Multipoint Kurtosis (MKurt)-VMD. Firstly, MED (Minimum Entropy Deconvolution) denoises the vibration signal in the strong noise environment. Secondly, multipoint kurtosis extracts the periodic multiple faults and a multi-periodic vector is further constructed to determine the number of impulse periods which determine the K value of VMD. Thirdly, the noise-reduced signal is processed by VMD and the fault features are further determined by FFT. Finally, the proposed compound fault feature extraction method can alleviate the mode mixing in comparison with EEMD. The validity of this method is further confirmed by processing the measured signal and extracting the compound fault features such as the gear spalling and the roller fault, their fault periods are 22.4 and 111.2 respectively and the corresponding frequencies are 360 Hz and 72 Hz, respectively.
A Real Options Analysis for Renewable Energy Investment Decisions under China Carbon Trading Market
Authors: Li Yanbin , Wu Min , Li Zhen
Published: July 2018

Under the carbon trading mechanism, renewable energy projects can gain additional benefits through Chinese Certified Emission Reduction transactions. Due to the uncertainty of carbon trading system, carbon prices will fluctuate randomly, which will affect the investment timing of renewable energy projects. Thus, the value of the option will be generated. Therefore, renewable energy power generation project investment has the right of option. However, the traditional investment decision-making method can no longer meet the requirements of renewable energy investment in the current stage. In this paper, a real option model considering carbon price fluctuation is proposed as a tool for renewable energy investment. Considering optimal investment timing and carbon price, the model introduces a carbon price fluctuation as part of the optimization, studies the flexibility of enterprises’ delayed investment under the fluctuation of carbon price. A case study is carried out to verify the effectiveness of the proposed real option model by selecting a wind farm in North China. The model is expected to help investors to assess the volatility and risk of renewable energy projects more accurately, and help investors to make a complete plan for the project investment, thus promoting the efficient allocation of resources in the energy industry.
Optimal Multidimensional Droop Control for Wind Resources in DC Microgrids
Authors: Bunker Kaitlyn J. , Weaver Wayne W.
Published: July 2018

The inclusion of electricity generation from wind in microgrids presents an important opportunity in modern electric power systems. Various control strategies can be pursued for wind resources connected in microgrids, and droop control is a promising option since communication between microgrid components is not required. Traditional droop control does have the drawback of not allowing much or all of the available wind power to be utilized in the microgrid. This paper presents a novel droop control strategy, modifying the traditional approach and building an optimal droop surface at a higher dimension. A method for determining the optimal droop control surface in multiple dimensions to meet a given objective is presented. Simulation and hardware-in-the-loop experiments of a sample microgrid show that much more wind power can be utilized, while maintaining the system’s bus voltage and still avoiding the need for communication between the various components.
Description of Genetic Variants in BRCA Genes in Mexican Patients with Ovarian Cancer: A First Step towards Implementing Personalized Medicine
Authors: Delgado-Balderas Jesus Rolando , Garza-Rodriguez Maria Lourdes , Gomez-Macias Gabriela Sofia , Barboza-Quintana Alvaro , Barboza-Quintana Oralia , Cerda-Flores Ricardo M. , Miranda-Maldonado Ivett , Vazquez-Garcia Hugo Mauricio , Valdez-Chapa Lezmes Dionicio , Antonio-Macedo Mauro , Dean Michael , Barrera-Saldaña Hugo A.
Published: July 2018

Gynecologic cancers are among the leading causes of death worldwide, ovarian cancer being the one with the highest mortality rate. Olaparib is a targeted therapy used in patients presenting mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The aim of this study was to describe BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene variants in Mexican patients with ovarian cancer. Sequencing of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes from tumors of 50 Mexican patients with ovarian cancer was made in a retrospective, non-randomized, and exploratory study. We found genetic variants in 48 of 50 cases. A total of 76 polymorphic variants were found in BRCA1, of which 50 (66%) had not been previously reported. Furthermore, 104 polymorphic variants were found in BRCA2, of which 63 (60%) had not been reported previously. Of these polymorphisms, 5/76 (6.6%) and 4/104 (3.8%) were classified as pathogenic in BRCA1 and BRCA2, respectively. We have described the genetic variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 of tumors from Northeast Mexican patients with sporadic ovarian cancers. Our results showed that the use of genetic testing helps recognize patients that carry pathogenic variants which could be beneficial for personalized medicine treatments.
Development of Ahmedabad’s Air Information and Response (AIR) Plan to Protect Public Health
Authors: Limaye Vijay S. , Knowlton Kim , Sarkar Sayantan , Ganguly Partha Sarthi , Pingle Shyam , Dutta Priya , M. Sathish L. , Tiwari Abhiyant , Solanki Bhavin , Shah Chirag , Raval Gopal , Kakkad Khyati , Beig Gufran , Parkhi Neha , Jaiswal Anjali , Mavalankar Dileep
Published: July 2018

Indian cities struggle with some of the highest ambient air pollution levels in the world. While national efforts are building momentum towards concerted action to reduce air pollution, individual cities are taking action on this challenge to protect communities from the many health problems caused by this harmful environmental exposure. In 2017, the city of Ahmedabad launched a regional air pollution monitoring and risk communication project, the Air Information and Response (AIR) Plan. The centerpiece of the plan is an air quality index developed by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology’s System for Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research program that summarizes information from 10 new continuous air pollution monitoring stations in the region, each reporting data that can help people avoid harmful exposures and inform policy strategies to achieve cleaner air. This paper focuses on the motivation, development, and implementation of Ahmedabad’s AIR Plan. The project is discussed in terms of its collaborative roots, public health purpose in addressing the grave threat of air pollution (particularly to vulnerable groups), technical aspects in deploying air monitoring technology, and broader goals for the dissemination of an air quality index linked to specific health messages and suggested actions to reduce harmful exposures. The city of Ahmedabad is among the first cities in India where city leaders, state government, and civil society are proactively working together to address the country’s air pollution challenge with a focus on public health. The lessons learned from the development of the AIR Plan serve as a template for other cities aiming to address the heavy burden of air pollution on public health. Effective working relationships are vital since they form the foundation for long-term success and useful knowledge sharing beyond a single city.
The Relationship between Personality Traits with Depressive Symptoms and Suicidal Ideation among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study at One Medical School in Germany
Authors: Chow Winnie S , Schmidtke Jan , Loerbroks Adrian , Muth Thomas , Angerer Peter
Published: July 2018

Medical students are at increased risk of experiencing mental health problems. Certain personality traits may be associated with elevated vulnerability to study-related stress and poor mental health. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between such personality traits and mental health outcomes among medical students. We drew on cross-sectional data from 251 medical students who had been enrolled for one-year at a medical school in Germany. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire-8 (PHQ-8) and suicidal ideation was assessed by item 9 from the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Personality traits were captured using the Business-Focused Inventory of Personality 6 Factors (BIP-6F). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to quantify the associations between work-related personality factors and mental health outcomes, controlling for demographic and social factors. Odds ratios (ORs) as outcome measures with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used. After controlling for important confounders, medical students who scored highly on Stability had lower odds of depressive symptoms (OR: 0.19, 95% CI: 0.09–0.42, p < 0.001) and suicidality (OR: 0.38, 95% CI: 0.16–0.87, p < 0.05) than those with high scores in other work-related personality factors. Findings also showed that those who scored highly on Dominance had greater odds of depressive symptoms (OR: 2.46, 95% CI: 1.22–4.97), p < 0.01). Work-related personality-informed interventions, which promote students’ mental well-being and reduce academic stress should be considered at various stages of their medical training.
TFF1 Promotes EMT-Like Changes through an Auto-Induction Mechanism
Authors: Romano Elena , Vllahu Megi , Bizzarro Valentina , Belvedere Raffaella , Esposito Roberta , Petrella Antonello , Tosco Alessandra
Published: July 2018

Trefoil factor 1 (TFF1) is a small secreted protein expressed in the gastrointestinal tract where, together with the other two members of its family, it plays an essential role in mucosal protection and repair against injury. The molecular mechanisms involved in the protective function of all three TFF proteins are not fully elucidated. In this paper, we investigated the role of TFF1 in epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) events. The effects of TFF1 on cellular models in normoxia and/or hypoxia were evaluated by western blot, immunofluorescence, qRT-PCR and trans-well invasion assays. Luciferase reporter assays were used to assess the existence of an auto-regulatory mechanism of TFF1. The methylation status of TFF1 promoter was measured by high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis. We demonstrate a TFF1 auto-induction mechanism with the identification of a specific responsive element located between −583 and −212 bp of its promoter. Our results suggest that TFF1 can regulate its own expression in normoxic, as well as in hypoxic, conditions acting synergistically with the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1α) pathway. Functionally, this auto-induction mechanism seems to promote cell invasion and EMT-like modifications in vitro. Additionally, exogenously added human recombinant TFF1 protein was sufficient to observe similar effects. Together, these findings suggest that the hypoxic conditions, which can be induced by gastric injury, promote TFF1 up-regulation, strengthened by an auto-induction mechanism, and that the trefoil peptide takes part in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition events eventually triggered to repair the damage.
Effect of Inhibition of DNA Methylation Combined with Task-Specific Training on Chronic Stroke Recovery
Authors: Choi In-Ae , Lee Cheol Soon , Kim Hahn Young , Choi Dong-Hee , Lee Jongmin
Published: July 2018

To develop new rehabilitation therapies for chronic stroke, this study examined the effectiveness of task-specific training (TST) and TST combined with DNA methyltransferase inhibitor in chronic stroke recovery. Eight weeks after photothrombotic stroke, 5-Aza-2′-deoxycytidine (5-Aza-dC) infusion was done on the contralesional cortex for four weeks, with and without TST. Functional recovery was assessed using the staircase test, the cylinder test, and the modified neurological severity score (mNSS). Axonal plasticity and expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) were determined in the contralateral motor cortex. TST and TST combined with 5-Aza-dC significantly improved the skilled reaching ability in the staircase test and ameliorated mNSS scores and cylinder test performance. TST and TST with 5-Aza-dC significantly increased the crossing fibers from the contralesional red nucleus, reticular formation in medullar oblongata, and dorsolateral spinal cord. Mature BDNF was significantly upregulated by TST and TST combined with 5-Azd-dC. Functional recovery after chronic stroke may involve axonal plasticity and increased mature BDNF by modulating DNA methylation in the contralesional cortex. Our results suggest that combined therapy to enhance axonal plasticity based on TST and 5-Aza-dC constitutes a promising approach for promoting the recovery of function in the chronic stage of stroke.
Metallated [3]Ferrocenophanes Containing P3M Bridges (M = Li, Na, K) §
Authors: Isenberg Stefan , Frenzel Lisa-Marie , Bruhn Clemens , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: July 2018

Alkali-metal phosphanides can be embedded into a [3]ferrocenophane scaffold giving rise to bicyclic ferrocenophanes [MFe(C5H4PtBu)2P] (M = Li, Na, K). Coordination of the alkali-metal ions takes place via the terminal phosphorus atoms adopting a puckered P3M four-membered ring. All compounds were characterized via single-crystal X-ray diffraction and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy (1H, 31P, 7Li), whereas 13C NMR data could only be recorded for the Li derivative, owing to the limited solubility of its heavier congeners in unreactive solvents.
Synthesis of Ferrocenyl-Substituted Organochalcogenyldichlorogermanes
Authors: Sasamori Takahiro , Suzuki Yuko , Sugamata Koh , Sugahara Tomohiro , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: July 2018

Reaction of the isolable ferrocenyldichlorogermyl anion, Fc*GeCl2− (Fc* = 2,5-bis(3,5-di-t-butylphenyl)-1-ferrocenyl), with the isolable chalcogenenyl halides resulted in the formation of the corresponding organochalcogenyldichlorogermanes that were structurally characterized. Thus, it was demonstrated the use of sterically demanding ferrocenyl groups allowed isolating stable crystalline organochalcogenyldichlorogermanes.
Hard Machining of Spur Gears with the InvoMillingTM Method
Authors: Glaser Thomas , Körner Tillmann , Sapparth Jochen , Wennmo Mats
Published: July 2018

Recently, the 5-axis machining of gears has become increasingly important. This technology enables a flexible production of diverse gear types on a single universal machine with standard tools. In addition to the economic aspects, the focus is on the high quality standards that has to be achieved. This paper deals with hard machining for the finishing of spur gears with the 5-axis InvoMilling™ method developed by Sandvik Coromant. A comparison of the hard and soft machining of a module 5 gear is made. The achievable gear qualities in the profile and flank direction, the achievable surface roughness in the profile direction, the torque applied to the milling spindle during the machining process and the wear of different types of inserts are compared and evaluated. In addition, the hard machining with different insert materials/coatings is carried out.
Inter-Specimen Imbalance of Mitochondrial Gene Copy Numbers Predicts Clustering of Pneumocystis jirovecii Isolates in Distinct Subgroups
Authors: Dunaiski Cara Mia , Janssen Lena , Erzinger Hannah , Pieper Monika , Damaschek Sarah , Schildgen Oliver , Schildgen Verena
Published: July 2018

The molecular detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii is an important therapy-relevant tool in microbiological diagnostics. However, the quantification of this pathogen in the past has revealed discordant results depending on the target gene. As the clinical variety of P. jirovecii infections ranges between life-threatening infections and symptom-free colonization, the question arises if qPCRs are reliable tools for quantitative diagnostics of P. jirovecii. P. jirovecii positive BALs were quantitatively tested for the copy numbers of one mitochondrial (COX-1) and two nuclear single-copy genes (KEX1 and DHPS) compared to the mitochondrial large subunit (mtLSU) by qPCR. Independent of the overall mtLSU copy number P. jirovecii clustered into distinct groups based on the ratio patterns of the respective qPCRs. This study, which compared different mitochondrial to nuclear gene ratio patterns of independent patients, shows that the mtLSU gene represents a highly sensitive qPCR tool for the detection of P. jirovecii, but does not display a reliable target for absolute quantification.
Hedonic Price Function for Residential Area Focusing on the Reasons for Residential Preferences in Japanese Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Sasaki Mitsuru , Yamamoto Kayoko
Published: July 2018

This study aims to offer a new estimate of the hedonic price function of residential areas in Japanese metropolitan areas, focusing on the reasons for residential preferences. More specifically, it introduces two new explanatory variables—‘regional vulnerability’ and ‘accessibility to destination stations’—and determines their usefulness. Based on the evaluation done in this study, the hedonic price function mentioned above showed 60% interpretability (as compared to 52% interpretability by hedonic price function using only conventional explanatory variables.) In addition, the significance level of both the explanatory variables was low, and the land price changed by 9% as the regional vulnerability changed by 1 grade. Furthermore, residents placed great emphasis on both variables. This made it evident that the introduction of the two explanatory variables that reflect the reasons for residential preferences specific to Japanese metropolitan areas was reasonable.
The Influence of Surface Texturing on the Film Thickness in Starved Lubricated Parallel Sliding Contacts
Authors: Bijani Dariush , Deladi Elena L. , De Rooij Matthijn B. , Schipper Dirk J.
Published: July 2018

In industrial applications, a starved lubrication condition may occur, leading to a reduction in film thickness; by modifying the surface geometry, the tribological performance of the contact is enhanced. In this paper, the influence of surface texturing as a method for reducing the friction on the film thickness in parallel sliding surfaces for starved lubricated contacts is investigated. The results in this study have shown that surface texturing can improve film formation for starved lubricated contacts and, respectively, the load carrying capacity. The effect of starvation on several texturing patterns with several texturing properties was investigated and the film thickness for these conditions was studied. With the numerical algorithm developed and taking cavitation into consideration, the effect of shape, depth, size, and texture pitch on the film thickness was studied.
A Review of the Characteristics, Synthesis, and Thermodynamics of Type-II Weyl Semimetal WTe2
Authors: Tian Wenchao , Yu Wenbo , Liu Xiaohan , Wang Yongkun , Shi Jing
Published: July 2018

WTe2 as a candidate of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exhibits many excellent properties, such as non-saturable large magnetoresistance (MR). Firstly, the crystal structure and characteristics of WTe2 are introduced, followed by a summary of the synthesis methods. Its thermodynamic properties are highlighted due to the insufficient research. Finally, a comprehensive analysis and discussion are introduced to interpret the advantages, challenges, and future prospects. Some results are shown as follows. (1) The chiral anomaly, pressure-induced conductivity, and non-saturable large MR are all unique properties of WTe2 that attract wide attention, but it is also a promising thermoelectric material that holds anisotropic ultra-low thermal conductivity (0.46 W·m−1·K−1). WTe2 is expected to have the lowest thermal conductivity, owing to the heavy atom mass and low Debye temperature. (2) The synthesis methods influence the properties significantly. Although large-scale few-layer WTe2 in high quality can be obtained by many methods, the preparation has not yet been industrialized, which limits its applications. (3) The thermodynamic properties of WTe2 are influenced by temperature, scale, and lattice orientations. However, the in-plane anisotropy cannot be observed in the experiment, as the intrinsic property is suppressed by defects and boundary scattering. Overall, this work provides an opportunity to develop the applications of WTe2.
The Computation of Complex Dispersion and Properties of Evanescent Lamb Wave in Functionally Graded Piezoelectric-Piezomagnetic Plates
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Li Zhi , Yu Jiangong
Published: July 2018

Functionally graded piezoelectric-piezomagnetic material (FGPPM), with a gradual variation of the material properties in the desired direction(s), can improve the conversion of energy among mechanical, electric, and magnetic fields. Full dispersion relations and wave mode shapes are vital to understanding dynamic behaviors of structures made of FGPPM. In this paper, an analytic method based on polynomial expansions is proposed to investigate the complex-valued dispersion and the evanescent Lamb wave in FGPPM plates. Comparisons with other related studies are conducted to validate the correctness of the presented method. Characteristics of the guided wave, including propagating modes and evanescent modes, in various FGPPM plates are studied, and three-dimensional full dispersion and attenuation curves are plotted to gain a deeper insight into the nature of the evanescent wave. The influences of the gradient variation on the dispersion and the magneto-electromechanical coupling factor are illustrated. The displacement amplitude and electric potential and magnetic potential distributions are also discussed in detail. The obtained numerical results could be useful to design and optimize different sensors and transducers made of smart piezoelectric and piezomagnetic materials with high performance by adjusting the gradient property.
Polylactide (PLA) Filaments a Biobased Solution for Additive Manufacturing: Correlating Rheology and Thermomechanical Properties with Printing Quality
Authors: Cicala Gianluca , Giordano Davide , Tosto Claudio , Filippone Giovanni , Recca Antonino , Blanco Ignazio
Published: July 2018

Three commercial filaments for Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) were selected to study the influence of polymer formulation on the printing quality and mechanical properties of FDM specimens. The three filaments were all based on polylactic acid (PLA) as the matrix, and they are sold as PLA filaments. The printing quality was tested by printing one complex shape with overhang features. The marked shear thinning behavior for two filaments was observed by rheology. The filaments were also studied by scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to unveil their composition. The filaments with the best printing quality showed the presence of mineral fillers, which explained the melt behavior observed by rheology. The tensile testing confirmed that the filled PLA was the best-performing filament both in terms of printing quality and thermomechanical performance, with a p-value = 0.106 for the tensile modulus, and a p-value = 0.615 for the ultimate tensile strength.
The dependence of successful resuscitation on electrocardiographically documented cardiac rhythm in case of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest
Authors: Jasinskas Nedas , Vaitkaitis Dinas , Pilvinis Vidas , Jančaitytė Lina , Bernotienė Gailutė , Dobožinskas Paulius
Published: July 2018

Objective. To determine the influence of electrocardiographically documented cardiac rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest on successful resuscitation among out-of-hospital deaths in Kaunas city. Material and methods. An observational prospective study was conducted between 1 January, 2005, and 30 December, 2005, in Kaunas city with a population of 360 627 inhabitants. In this period, all cases of cardiac arrest were analyzed according to the guidelines of the Utstein consensus conference. Cardiac arrest (both of cardiac and noncardiac etiology) was confirmed in 72 patients during one year. Effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed in 18 patients. Results. The total number of deaths from all causes in Kaunas during 1-year study period was 6691. Sixty-two patients due to sudden death of cardiac etiology were resuscitated by emergency medical services personnel. Return of spontaneous circulation was achieved in 11 patients. Ventricular fibrillation was observed in 33 (53.2%) patients. Asystole was present in 11 (17.7%) and other rhythms in 18 (29.1%) cases. Patients with ventricular fibrillation as an initial rhythm were more likely to be successfully resuscitated than patients with asystole. Conclusions. Ventricular fibrillation was the most common electrocardiographically documented cardiac rhythm registered during cardiac arrest in out-of-hospital settings. Ventricular fibrillation as a mechanism of cardiac arrest was associated with major cases of successful resuscitation.
Antimicrobial Peptides: Powerful Biorecognition Elements to Detect Bacteria in Biosensing Technologies
Authors: Hoyos-Nogués Mireia , Gil F. J. , Mas-Moruno Carlos
Published: July 2018

Bacterial infections represent a serious threat in modern medicine. In particular, biofilm treatment in clinical settings is challenging, as biofilms are very resistant to conventional antibiotic therapy and may spread infecting other tissues. To address this problem, biosensing technologies are emerging as a powerful solution to detect and identify bacterial pathogens at the very early stages of the infection, thus allowing rapid and effective treatments before biofilms are formed. Biosensors typically consist of two main parts, a biorecognition moiety that interacts with the target (i.e., bacteria) and a platform that transduces such interaction into a measurable signal. This review will focus on the development of impedimetric biosensors using antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) as biorecognition elements. AMPs belong to the innate immune system of living organisms and are very effective in interacting with bacterial membranes. They offer unique advantages compared to other classical bioreceptor molecules such as enzymes or antibodies. Moreover, impedance-based sensors allow the development of label-free, rapid, sensitive, specific and cost-effective sensing platforms. In summary, AMPs and impedimetric transducers combine excellent properties to produce robust biosensors for the early detection of bacterial infections.
N-Butanol Subfraction of Brassica Rapa L. Promotes Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Induces Apoptosis of A549 Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells via Mitochondria-Dependent Pathway
Authors: Aipire Adila , Chen Qiuyan , Cai Shanshan , Li Jinyu , Fu Changshuang , Ying Tianlei , Lu Jun , Li Jinyao
Published: July 2018

Brassica rapa L., an edible and medical vegetable, has been traditionally used in Uyghur folk medicine to treat coughs and asthma in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. In this study, we prepared an n-butanol subfraction of B. rapa L. (BRBS) and investigated the anti-tumor effect on A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. The proliferation of A549 cells was significantly inhibited by BRBS treatment in a dose- and time-dependent manner. BRBS significantly induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in A549 cells through increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial dysfunction characterized by a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential and the release of cytochrome c, which promoted caspase-3 and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase processing. Moreover, BRBS significantly suppressed the migration of A549 cells in vitro. These results suggest that BRBS inhibited A549 cell proliferation through increased ROS production and the mitochondria-dependent apoptosis pathway. Consequently, BRBS might be a potential candidate for the treatment of lung cancer.
Green Tea Quality Evaluation Based on Its Catechins and Metals Composition in Combination with Chemometric Analysis
Authors: Koch Wojciech , Kukula-Koch Wirginia , Komsta Łukasz , Marzec Zbigniew , Szwerc Wojciech , Głowniak Kazimierz
Published: July 2018

Green tea infusions are one of the most popular beverages consumed across the world, especially is Asian countries. Green tea quality is primarily based on catechin content, however, the concentration of elements could also significantly influence its biological properties and thus quality and safety. The main purpose of the present study was the evaluation of catechin, antioxidant activity and metal content (K, Na, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Cr, Pb, Cd and Ni) in different green tea types cultivated in Japan, Sri Lanka, South Korea, India, China and Japan. The chemical analysis of samples was performed using LC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS for organic constituents and atomic absorption spectrometry (flame and electrothermal) method for inorganic ones. The obtained results were subjected to chemometric elaboration. EGC (213 mg/100 mL of the tea infusion in South Korean Jeoncha) and EGCG (124 mg/100 mL in Japanese Sencha) were the dominant catechins in all green tea samples. Chinese and Indian green tea samples contained the highest concentration of toxic heavy metals, however these values were far below appropriate limitations for green teas. PCA revealed significant similarities between Japanese samples and Korean Jeoncha. In general the latter one was evaluated to have the best quality based on the investigated parameters.
2-Phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide Radical (PTIO•) Trapping Activity and Mechanisms of 16 Phenolic Xanthones
Authors: Li Xican , Chen Ban , Zhao Xiaojun , Chen Dongfeng
Published: July 2018

This study used the 2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide radical (PTIO•) trapping model to study the antioxidant activities of 16 natural xanthones in aqueous solution, including garcinone C, γ-mangostin, subelliptenone G, mangiferin, 1,6,7-trihydroxy-xanthone, 1,2,5-trihydroxyxanthone, 1,5,6-trihydroxyxanthone, norathyriol, 1,3,5,6-tetrahydroxy-xanthone, isojacareubin, 1,3,5,8-tetrahydroxyxanthone, isomangiferin, 2-hydroxyxanthone, 7-O-methylmangiferin, neomangiferin, and lancerin. It was observed that most of the 16 xanthones could scavenge the PTIO• radical in a dose-dependent manner at pH 4.5 and 7.4. Among them, 12 xanthones of the para-di-OHs (or ortho-di-OHs) type always exhibited lower half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values than those not of the para-di-OHs (or ortho-di-OHs) type. Ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS) analysis revealed that most of these xanthones gave xanthone-xanthone dimers after incubation with PTIO•, except for neomangiferin. Based on these data, we concluded that the antioxidant activity of phenolic xanthone may be mediated by electron-transfer (ET) plus H+-transfer mechanisms. Through these mechanisms, some xanthones can further dimerize unless they bear huge substituents with steric hindrance. Four substituent types (i.e., para-di-OHs, 5,6-di-OHs, 6,7-di-OHs, and 7,8-di-OHs) dominate the antioxidant activity of phenolic xanthones, while other substituents (including isoprenyl and 3-hydroxy-3-methylbutyl substituents) play a minor role as long as they do not break the above four types.
Hot Melt Extrusion: Highlighting Physicochemical Factors to Be Investigated While Designing and Optimizing a Hot Melt Extrusion Process
Authors: Censi Roberta , Gigliobianco Maria Rosa , Casadidio Cristina , Di Martino Piera
Published: July 2018

Hot-melt extrusion (HME) is a well-accepted and extensively studied method for preparing numerous types of drug delivery systems and dosage forms. It offers several advantages: no solvents are required, it is easy to scale up and employ on the industrial level, and, in particular, it offers the possibility of improving drug bioavailability. HME involves the mixing of a drug with one or more excipients, in general polymers and even plasticizers, which can melt, often forming a solid dispersion of the drug in the polymer. The molten mass is extruded and cooled, giving rise to a solid material with designed properties. This process, which can be realized using different kinds of special equipment, may involve modifications in the drug physicochemical properties, such as chemical, thermal and mechanical characteristics thus affecting the drug physicochemical stability and bioavailability. During process optimization, the evaluation of the drug solid state and stability is thus of paramount importance to guarantee stable drug properties for the duration of the drug product shelf life. This manuscript reviews the most important physicochemical factors that should be investigated while designing and optimizing a hot melt extrusion process, and by extension, during the different pre-formulation, formulation and process, and post-formulation phases. It offers a comprehensive evaluation of the chemical and thermal stability of extrudates, the solid physical state of extrudates, possible drug-polymer interactions, the miscibility/solubility of the drug-polymer system, the rheological properties of extrudates, the physicomechanical properties of films produced by hot melt extrusion, and drug particle dissolution from extrudates. It draws upon the last ten years of research, extending inquiry as broadly as possible.
Use of Standardized Patient Simulations to Assess Impact of Motivational Interviewing Training on Social–Emotional Development
Authors: Galal Suzanne , Vyas Deepti , Mayberry John , Rogan Edward L. , Patel Shivani , Ruda Sara
Published: July 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the impact of motivational interviewing (MI) training on students’ social–emotional development. Two simulations using standardized patients (SP) were conducted within a smoking cessation module. Students first completed a 4 h self-study module focused on smoking cessation tools and general counseling techniques. Faculty then administered a 15-item rubric focused on students’ self-assessment of their verbal/non-verbal communication, social–emotional competence and MI skills. Students then participated in a smoking cessation counseling session with an SP. SPs used the same rubric to assess student performance. Teaching assistants (TAs) observed and assessed the students using the same rubric and an additional 22 items related to clinical skills. TAs and SPs then provided feedback on areas of improvement. The following week, students first completed a 3 h self-study module on MI then participated in a different smoking cessation scenario. After completion, the 15-item self-assessment rubric was administered. There was a significant improvement in TA assessed student performance with an average score improvement of 8% (pre-intervention score = 67%; post-intervention mean = 75%). Students had dramatic gains in their self-assessment with their scores rising by an average of 22%. Using MI techniques can improve students’ self-assessed and perceived social–emotional competency.
Effect of Cooperation on Manufacturing IT Project Development and Test Bed for Successful Industry 4.0 Project: Safety Management for Security
Authors: Park Sangil , Huh Jun-Ho
Published: July 2018

A new direction of the 4th industrial revolution in manufacturing and IT industries is presented in this study, wherein the manufacturing sector will be able to survive in this period by achieving rapid and flexible change through effective convergence between both industries. Under such an environment, manufacturing IT requires speedy development and a new distribution form, as well as a new method of IT project development which is adequate for that form. Thus, this study compares and analyzes the waterfall method which is being used in general manufacturing System Integration (SI) projects and the proposed DevOps method, which requires faster distribution and improvement. This study confirms that the required human resources are less than the existing SI projects when system improvement is made using the DevOps method. At the same time, this method provides much-improved quality for the same price. Therefore, future manufacturing IT projects would achieve a faster and more efficient development and operation form by adopting the DevOps method to perform continuous and repetitive improvement and operation through the convergence of manufacturing and IT. Also, some of the current smart factory models can be found in several ICT (Information & Communication Technology) advanced countries, and they have actually increased the efficiency in their factories and generated much value-added business. As with the production facilities, materials, and methods, human resource management occupies an important role in the smart factory system to increase efficiency. This study aims to validate such logic by proving the effectiveness of a Bluetooth beacon-based worker positioning system by which workers’ safety can be secured along with the security of the factory itself. This system can be foundational to establishing a safer working environment by controlling accesses to the critical production facilities and determining their whereabouts in case of an accident.
Matching Multi-Sensor Remote Sensing Images via an Affinity Tensor
Authors: Chen Shiyu , Yuan Xiuxiao , Yuan Wei , Niu Jiqiang , Xu Feng , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2018

Matching multi-sensor remote sensing images is still a challenging task due to textural changes and non-linear intensity differences. In this paper, a novel matching method is proposed for multi-sensor remote sensing images. To establish feature correspondences, an affinity tensor is used to integrate geometric and radiometric information. The matching process consists of three steps. First, features from an accelerated segment test are extracted from both source and target images, and two complete graphs are constructed with their nodes representing these features. Then, the geometric and radiometric similarities of the feature points are represented by the three-order affinity tensor, and the initial feature correspondences are established by tensor power iteration. Finally, a tensor-based mismatch detection process is conducted to purify the initial matched points. The robustness and capability of the proposed method are tested with a variety of remote sensing images such as Ziyuan-3 backward, Ziyuan-3 nadir, Gaofen-1, Gaofen-2, unmanned aerial vehicle platform, and Jilin-1. The experiments show that the average matching recall is greater than 0.5, which outperforms state-of-the-art multi-sensor image-matching algorithms such as SIFT, SURF, NG-SIFT, OR-SIFT and GOM-SIFT.
Industrial Data Space Architecture Implementation Using FIWARE
Authors: Alonso Álvaro , Pozo Alejandro , Cantera José Manuel , De la Vega Francisco , Hierro Juan José
Published: July 2018

We are in front of a new digital revolution that will transform the way we understand and use services and infrastructures. One of the key factors of this revolution is related to the evolution of the Internet of Things (IoT). Connected sensors will be installed in cities and homes affecting the daily life of people and providing them new ways of performing their daily activities. However, this revolution will also affect business and industry bringing the IoT to the production processes in what is called Industry 4.0. Sensor-enabled manufacturing equipment will allow real time communication, smart diagnosis and autonomous decision making. In this scope, the Industrial Data Spaces (IDS) Association has created a Reference Architecture model that aims to provide a common frame for designing and deploying Industry IoT infrastructures. In this paper, we present an implementation of such Reference Architecture based on FIWARE open source software components (Generic Enablers). We validate the proposed architecture by deploying and testing it in a real industry use case that tries to improve the maintenance and operation of milling machines. We conclude that the FIWARE-based IDS implementation fits the requirements of the IDS Reference Architecture providing open source software suitable to any Industry 4.0 environment.
Human Capital Sustainability Leadership to Promote Sustainable Development and Healthy Organizations: A New Scale
Authors: Di Fabio Annamaria , Peiró José María
Published: July 2018

Human resource management that aims to promote employee wellbeing calls for a new style of leadership. Such a strategy focuses on fostering flourishing and resilient workers to build up thriving businesses and robust and sustainable organizations. In this framework, we developed a new integrated construct of human capital sustainability leadership, and a scale to assess it. This leadership style has its roots in the existing definition of the term but aims to achieve higher integration of different functions and of the four dimensions of leadership, including ethical, sustainable, mindful and servant leadership. In this study, we analyze the psychometric properties of the new scale for assessing human capital sustainability leadership for Italian workers. The results of the exploratory factor analysis reveal a factor structure with the four dimensions that have good reliability and validity. The confirmatory factor analysis confirms this four-dimensional structure, which is integrated into the construct of human capital sustainability leadership as a single second-order factor.
Integrated Model of Economic Generation System Expansion Plan for the Stable Operation of a Power Plant and the Response of Future Electricity Power Demand
Authors: Kim Jang-yeop , Kim Kyung Sup
Published: July 2018

The current study aims to establish an optimal Generation System Expansion Plan that can satisfy the increasing electricity demand while maintaining operational elements and the stability of the energy supply. The architecture is composed of plan-level and operation-level models, which are basically based on optimization. In the first step, we estimated future power demand data through time series analysis. In addition, power plant data were defined and verified data were collected. In the next step, the previous Generation System Expansion Plan methodology was used to deduce a feasible solution and construction costs that satisfy the reserve rate. In the third step, mixed integer programming (MIP)-based power generation system operation plan methodology was used to deduce numbers on the operation of power generation system. In addition, power plants with similar characteristics were grouped to reduce the calculation complexity of unit commitment. In the last step, a feasible solution for the duration of the plan (deduced in Stage II) and operations and maintenance cost information were combined to produce the optimal solution that minimizes the total cost. Experiments were conducted to demonstrate the proposed integrated generation system expansion planning architecture for establishing the optimal generation system expansion planning. This study has academic implications for the establishment of optimal power plant expansion plans to meet future increasing power demand while maintaining operational considerations and supply stability. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is also illustrated through comparison and verification with the National Plan for Electricity Supply and Demand.
Tipping Points in the Supply of Ecosystem Services of a Mountainous Watershed in Southeast Asia
Authors: Thellmann Kevin , Cotter Marc , Baumgartner Sabine , Treydte Anna , Cadisch Georg , Asch Folkard
Published: July 2018

Rubber plantations have expanded at an unprecedented rate in Southeast Asia in recent decades. This has led to a substantial decline in the supply of ecosystem services (ESS) and has reduced livelihood options and socioeconomic well-being in rural areas. We assessed the impact of two land use scenarios on the supply of ESS in a mountainous watershed in Xishuangbanna Prefecture, People’s Republic of China. We combined time-series data derived from spatially explicit ESS models (InVEST) with a sequential, data-driven algorithm (R-method) to identify potential tipping points (TPs) in the supply of ESS under two rubber plantation expansion scenarios. TPs were defined as any situation in which the state of a system is changed through positive feedback as a result of accelerating changes. The TP analysis included hydrological, agronomical, and climate-regulation ESS, as well as multiple facets of biodiversity (habitat quality for vertebrate, invertebrate, and plant species). We identified regime shifts indicating potential tipping points, which were linked to abrupt changes in rubber yields, in both scenarios at varying spatial scales. With this study, we provide an easily applicable method for regional policy making and land use planning in data-scarce environments to reduce the risk of traversing future TPs in ESS supply for rubber producing land use systems.
Comparative Analysis on Citizen’s Subjective Responses Related to Their Willingness to Pay for Renewable Energy in Japan Using Latent Variables
Authors: Nakano Ryoko , Miwa Tomio , Morikawa Takayuki
Published: July 2018

This paper focuses on understanding the difference between East and West Japan with respect to citizens’ subjective views on renewable energy. A comparative analysis was performed for cities in the east and west because renewable energy is a natural resource unique to each location and suitable for a distributed energy network operated under the autonomy of the local community. This paper indicates that the social acceptance of renewable energy and willingness to pay in East Japan is affected by the citizens’ strong concerns about the global environment and willingness to participate in policy-making, while the support of the deregulation of the retail electricity market and development of a distributed power system is more relevant in West Japan.