bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computing height anomalies using spherical harmonic coefficients at certain degrees and orders in long-wavelength components
Authors: Luong Bao-Binh
Published: October 2018

Height anomaly / geoid undulation) is a basic quantity in geodesy. It can be directly measured from GPS and leveling or computed from gravitational models. This paper introduces program GeoH to compute height anomalies using spherical harmonic coefficients at certain degrees and orders in longwavelength components. By reasonably comparing with official values of EGM96, the reliability of results from GeoH is proved for the long-wavelength components, and then can be applied in the “remove-restore” technique for determining Vietnamese quasi-geoid in near future.
Applications of GNSS-Pro software for processing GNSS short baseline networks in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Lau Ngoc , Nguyen Huong Thi Thanh , Ha Hoa Minh
Published: October 2018

In the framework of a Natural Resources and Environment Ministry level project, chaired by the Vietnam Institute of Geodesy and Cartography, we have established GNSS-Pro software for processing GNSS short baseline networks. The software can process carrier phase measurements from single or dual frequency receivers for the two satellite systems GPS and GLONASS simultaneously. This paper presents the results of treatment an illustrated cadastral GNSS network in Hai Duong province by GNSS-Pro and compared with other commonly used software packages such as Leica Geo Office (LGO) and Trimble Business Center (TBC). Result comparisons showed that although GNSS data collected in the unfavorable conditions, GNSS-Pro still offers fixed solution for all baselines with centimeter level accuracy.
Visualization design for choropleths in multi-scale statistical mapping
Authors: Van Phuong Ngoc Truc , Le Vinh Minh
Published: October 2018

Multi-scale maps are one of those which are produced and displayed on screens at different levels of scale. Therefore, multi-scale mapping needs new approachs and concepts. This article introduces principles of multi-scale choropleth maps. The principles are based on cartographic principles and the screen environment. The scale ranges are defined by readable smallest area units. There is a changeover to larger administrative units at a reduction of scale. Data classifications and color ramps (symbology) for different scale ranges satisfy traditional rules and be consistent throughout the ranges
Building a generalizated tool for the road layers of big scale topographic maps
Authors: Nguyen Thuong Thi Lan , Vu Cuong Xuan
Published: October 2018

Generalization has important role in making map, especially topographic map. Generalization is used when we want to reduce scale of map or focus on important features. As a result, we have better map about graphical representation, easier to understand. If this process is done manually, it will cost a lot of time and effort. Therefore, this study refer to build some tools for automatic generalization for traffic data on topographic map, particularly from 1/2000 to 1/10000 in ArcGIS software. Achieved result is satisfactory when applying for four topographic maps at Hoc Mon district, Ho Chi Minh city. Thanks to these tools, the generalization process is more faster. Moreover, these tools also save time and money for map makers.
Experiments of absolute positioning using BEIDOU in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Lau Ngoc
Published: October 2018

We research on absolute positioning using Beidou pseudo-range measurements collected in Ho Chi Minh City. Positional accuracy achieved is 2.3m, 4.5m and 3.9m for the North, East and height components compared to (0.8, 0.9, 1.7) of GPS and (2.0, 1.9, 4.1) of GLONASS. This result shows that in Vietnam we can use only BEIDOU system for positioning and also opens the possibility of incorporating positioning satellite systems to improve accuracy.
Exploiting a drainage database via internet
Authors: Tran Duc Trong
Published: October 2018

To manage the HCMC drainage system, the city’s Urban Drainage Company has been developing a desktop GIS based on ArcGIS software, ESRI. In this system, drainage database is organized into Geodatabase model and is stored in a server placed at the company headquarter. The company’s satellite offices can get access to the server’s database through a virtual private network. With this arrangement, investment cost will increase rapidly if the company is going to equip GIS software to workstation of every related staff. To avoid this investment burden problem, a WebGIS system has been developed based on ASP.NET framework of Microsoft, as well as the open source products Geoserver, and OpenLayers. With this webGIS, the company staff can access to drainage database from everywhere through the Internet by using just a normal web browser making requests for data through a standard web page. They can also carry out several basic GIS functions, such as viewing, querying, and doing statistics and making graph. The system has been tested and proved to work effectively enabling the company staff to cost-effectively exploit its drainage Geodatabase through the internet.
Locating Bus Rapid Transit stops using GIS and AHP: the Vo Van Kiet - Mai Chi Tho route in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: Phan Vu Hien , Pham Linh Thuy , Nguyen Anh Tuan
Published: October 2018

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is one of public vehicle systems in modern cities to provide transportation services fast, confortable, and cost saving. However, effectiveness of one BRT route depends on the locations of its stops. This study focuses on determining optimal locations to build the stops of a BRT route. Firstly, criteria having influences on effective operation of a BRT stop are explorered, consisting of i) traveling demands, e.g. buildings, offices, industrial parks, hopitals, etc; ii) public transportations, e.g. metro stations, bus stops, etc; and iii) roads, e.g. crossroads, parking lots, etc. Secondly, each criterion is assigned a weighted factor representative for its influence, determined by the AHP method. Finally, the progress of data processing in GIS environment is established to create a weighted overlay map from all criteria. Subsequently, locations having high values are reasonable to build BRT stops. This progress has been applied to locate BRT stops of the Vo Van Kiet – Mai Chi Tho route in Ho Chi Minh City. The result indicates 40 BRT stops along this route, and it is considered as a scientific reference to help the city government in decision making.
Applying eco-services in smallholder rubber land valuation
Authors: Nguyen Ngan Truong , Pham Tam Thi Giac , Tran Tu Cong , Tran Thanh Cong
Published: October 2018

Ecosystem services (ES) are the benefits people obtain from ecosystems. Agricultural lands are artificial ecosystems. Therefore, the value of an agricultural land use type can be measured by the total value of ESs which human are getting on that type. This paper proposed to value agricultural lands by the ES approach and apply for the smallholder rubber ecosystem on the Suoi Rat watershed in Binh Phuoc province. The results are: selection and pricing the nine ESs in 40 sample plots; determining the total value in each plot, thereby, calculating the unit value of smallholder rubber land in the watershed is 96,570 VND/m2; comparing the result with the value get from the income method and land price in 2014 of Binh Phuoc province. This valuation methods can be applied to value for other agricultural lands
Monitoring glacial thickness changes in the Tibetan Plateau derived from ICESat data
Authors: Phan Vu Hien , Lindenbergh Roderik , Menenti Massimo
Published: October 2018

Monitoring glacier changes is essential for estimating the water mass balance of the Tibetan Plateau. Recent research indicates that glaciers at individual regions on the Tibetan Plateau and surroundings are shrinking and thinning during the last decades. Studies considering large regions often ignored however the impact of locally varying weather conditions and terrain characteristics on glacial evolution, i.e. the impact of orographic precipitation and variation in solar radiation. Our hypothesis is therefore that adjacent glaciers of opposite orientation change in a different way. In this study, we exploit Ice Cloud and land Elevation Satellite (ICESat)/ Geoscience Laser Altimetry System (GLAS) data in combination with the NASA Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) digital elevation model (DEM) and the Global Land Ice Measurements from Space (GLIMS) glacier mask to estimate glacial thickness change trends between 2003 and 2009 on the whole Tibetan Plateau. The results show that 90 glacial areas could be distinguished. Most of observed glacial areas on the Tibetan Plateau are thinning, except for some glaciers in the Northwest. In general, glacial elevations on the whole Tibetan Plateau decreased at an average rate of -0.17 ± 0.47 meters per year (m a-1) between 2003 and 2009, taking together glaciers of any size, distribution, and location of the observed glacial area. Moreover, the results show that glacial elevation changes indeed strongly depend on the relative position in a mountain range.
Using urban morphology for flood risk in residential areas in Ho Chi Minh city
Authors: Le Hoa Thanh , Nguyen Chau Thi Phuong
Published: October 2018

Urban morphology in urban studies is used to classify and manage the distribution of urban densities. In urban planning, it helps to identify the emerging problems and solve the disorder of urban functions as in the megacity of Ho Chi Minh City. Rapid urbanization has increased the development footprint with disordered densities of building footprint, incomplete infrastructure and urban - peripheral instability. And it, then, caused more flood problems to the city. This study was based on applying fractal geometry, GIS on large-scale maps for identifying residential density based on urban morphology. The land-use map and the building footprints map of 2010 were integrated in fractal geometry to analyze the distribution of urban areas by the large scale of GIS data. This study showed HCMC had problems on irrational development in residential densities areas; and uneven development of population and residential density between the urban areas. At block scale of land-use block, in urban center had highest densities of building footprints and population, then, the medium densities in developing districts and rural-sub-districts. With these densities, there was more flood in high density areas, as in urban center, and less flood in lower density areas, as in sub-urban areas. These problems may cause some limitations to development of social, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure in HCMC. City needs to have flood control and management for development of the city.
An Integer Programming Model for Alternative Selection and Planning Stages for Cleaner Production Programs: a Case Study for Greenhouse Gases Reduction
Authors: Tran Thanh Van , Le Hai Thanh
Published: October 2018

The selection of subjects (such as waste stream, process, apparatus, ect.) for improvement and development their alternatives when implementing cleaner production (CP) programs at the company in order to achieve the highest efficiency is a complex and timeconsuming process, especially in case when there are many subjects to be improved, and many alternatives for each subject. The problem in this case is which subject and its respective alternative is to be selected in order to obtain maximal waste reduction objective with minimization cost. To solve this problem, this article proposes an optimization mathematical model to support alternatives selection for CP programs. In this study, an integer programming model is applied for defining theselection steps of alternatives and setting the implementing plan within CP program. The proposed model is investigated in a real case study at a cassava starch factory in Tay Ninh, Vietnam (where is the most concentrated area of cassava processing in the country) with purpose to propose the measures for reduction of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and electricity consumption. The results show that this model can be considered as a new effective method for alternative CP selection and planning for CP implementation, especially in case of many subjects and alternatives. The solution of this model can be generalized to apply in any cases with unlimited number of subjects and alternatives.
Estimation of BOD520 discharged from tra catfish cultivation in AnGiang
Authors: Nguyen Tue Cuu , Vu Quang Van , Vo Phu Le , Le Giang Song
Published: October 2018

Tra catfish cultivation in Mekong delta does not only bring benefits to farmers but also causes an important pollution source for surface water bodies. By experiments, the rate of BOD520 load discharged from deposited feeds in excess and excrement of tra catfish occurred during its cultivation in An Giang was estimated. It was defined that 488.29g of BOD520 will be emitted to produce one kilogram of tra catfish.
Chitosan/ zeolite composite membranesa for efficent elimination materials to heavy metals from aquoes solutions
Authors: Truong Trang Thi Cam , Nguyen Quan Trong , Kobayashi Takaomi
Published: October 2018

Chitosan and zeolite were composited by incorporation of zeolite into chitosan membranes in varying amounts from 50 to 100wt% of chitosan and glutaraldehyde was used to crosslinking.The zeolite loading in the chitosan membranes was varied in the range of 10%-30%, showing high mechanical properties even in the high zeolite loading. Potential adsorption targeted to waste elimination of heavy metal cations was carried out by using the chitosanzeolite composite membranes. In the permeation experiment, the selectivity of the composite membranes to especially chromium (Cr) was observed in the order of Cr>As>Cd >Hg>Pb>Cu. It was noted that the composite membrane having zeolite loading with 30 wt.% showed the highest performance adsorption selectivity. These results reveal that the composite membranes had a potential avility to purify wastewater by removing heavy metal ions.
High quality human resource - The factor promoting creativity and applicability of science and technology
Authors: Nguyen Hang Phan Thu
Published: October 2018

This paper focuses on analyzing the impact of high-quality human resources on creative activities and scientific - technological applications. It began with a review of research findings on the effects of investment in human capital to improve the quality of human resources on economic growth promoting factors. The paper continues with explaining why high-quality human resources are capable of promoting the creation of new technologies as well as the applicability of technology in the production process. Through an analysis of the present human resource quality, especially in the field of science and technology, and the actual situation of scientific-technological research and application, the authors suggest solutions to achieve scientific and technological development in the future.
Similarities and differences between service and product brand images - Evidence from education service
Authors: Vo Thuy Thi Ngoc , Dang Bich Ngoc , Mai Phuong Thu
Published: October 2018

Since the 1990s, the study of service brands has begun and developed rapidly but still remains relatively limited as works were mostly inspired by research on product brands. While several studies point out the homogeneity between these two concepts, there are (substantially) different aspects in terms of brand attributes and the way that customers build brand image in their mind. This study reviews the dominant literature of brand image in the service sector and clarifies the similarities and differences between the service brand and product brand. Also, using qualitative methods, this study aims to find service brand attributes in the education sector. From the above analysis, the study provides further research on the synthesis of brand image in the service sector. Finally, new directions of research in the field are suggested.
The building of artificial islands of China in the Spratly Islands - An analysis in the viewpoint of the international law
Authors: Bach Nam Thi Nha
Published: October 2018

The illegal building of the artificial islands in the Spratly Islands of China has been started since the beginning of 2014, and considerably boomed since 2015. China has conducted the dredging and the land reclamation in order to change the natural formation of seven reefs in the Spratly Islands, establish the artificial islands and complete the other man-made outposts in the features which were occupied unlawfully by China in the South China Sea. In the paper, the author shall evaluate the maritime environmental impacts, increasing defense and political chaos in the disputed area posed by China’s land reclamation, and legal disputes of the related parties about the legal status of the artificial islands. In the next part of the paper, the author presents how China’s land reclamation has violated of the international law, UNCLOS 1982, and broken binding international commitments of China. Hence, the author suggests the solutions for Vietnam in the current context of robust land reclamation conducted by China in the Spratly Islands.
Cloning, expression and purification of the recombinant FliC from Salmonella enteritidis
Authors: Tran Chau Thi Bao , Nguyen Anh Viet , Tran Hieu Van
Published: October 2018

FliC protein from Salmonella enteritidis is currently interested due to its immunologic adjuvant property for the novel generation of recombinant vaccines. To produce a source for further researches on the immune effects of FliC, we generated an Escherichia coli based on recombinant vector called pET-fliC which is ligated from fliC gene with NdeI and XhoI double digested pET vectors. The results of expression of recombinant FliC, which was induced by IPTG, were confirmed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot probed with anti-6xHis tag. With the purity above 95 %, this recombinant FliC can be used as a material source for next studies on evaluating the adjuvant property of FliC.
Determination of methyl mercury and total mercury in sediment samples collected from canals in HoChiMinh city
Authors: Hoang Hien Thai , Nguyen Dong Van
Published: October 2018

In this study, the analysis of methyl mercury (MeHg) and total mercury (T-Hg) was studied using gas chromatographic separation/atomic fluorescence spectrometric detection and cold vapour atomic absorption spectrometry respectively. MeHg was extracted from sediment matrix using HNO3/KCl/CuSO4 into dichloromethane followed ethylation with NaB(C2H5)4 in hexane. Total mercury was digested using three different procedures: EPA 245.1, AOAC 971.21 and our proposed one. The reliability of the analytical method for MeHg was evaluated by the use of the certified reference material ERM CC-580. In addition, the analytical method for total merury was evaluated using a fresh water sediment as an internal reference material, spiked with inorganic mercury, methyl mercury and phenyl mercury. The method detection limits for MeHg and total mercury were 0.08 and 0.15 ng/g (as Hg), respectively. The established analytical methods were applied to analyse MeHg and total mercury in sediment samples collected from canals and rivers in Hochiminh City. The concentrations of methyl mercury and total mercury in sediment samples were 0.08–2.87 ng/g và 14 – 623 ng/g (as Hg, dw). [MeHg]/Σ[Hg] respectirely were in a range of 0.1–2.3 %, which was in good agreement with the published ratios in sediment samples. A good correlation between the concentration of MeHg with total mercury and total organic carbon contents in the studied sediment samples was found.
Fabricating a flexible super capacitor prototype based on nano - composite electrode and polymer electrolyte
Authors: Luong Dao Thi Anh , Do Quyet Huu
Published: October 2018

Super capacitor is an important device for energy storage and usage with high power and high efficiency. Commercial super capacitors are typically fabricated by using binder to attach electrode powder to the metal foil current collector. In this paper, we present a method to fabricate super capacitors using binder-free electrodes and carbon current collector to enhance the compact size, light weight and flexibility. To obtain high power and high energy density, nano composite electrode of CNTs-polyaniline was employed. The super capacitors with PVA electrolyte achieved the electrode capacitance of 170 F/g and charged voltage can be up to 1.2 volt, which is the maximum voltage achieved by aqueous PVA electrolyte.
Investigating the effect of yttria contents on the structure and mechanical properties of zirconia ceramics
Authors: Nguyen Linh Ba Ngoc , Hoang Dung Van , Tran Van Thi Thanh
Published: October 2018

In this study, the co- precipitation method and annealing process were used to prepare the yttria stabilized zirconia ceramics. Data of Raman and XRD showed that an increase of yttria doping leads to an decrease of the ratio between monoclinic and tetragonal phases. Howerver, it existed a critical concentration of yttrium at which the highest value of hardness was about 14.5 GPa and grain sizes of 0.2–0.5 m. An investigation of low temperature degradation indicated that theaging process only occurred in the first 5 hours and then virtually negligible changes.
Preparation of polyimide from melamine and pyromellitic dianhydride by microwave irradiation
Authors: Hoang Cuong Ngoc , Huynh Vu Anh
Published: October 2018

Under microwave irradiation, the reaction time of PMDA and melamine in DMSO was shortened to just 30 minutes. Structure of the obtained polyimide was characterized by FTIR, and its thermal stability was confirmed by TGA analysis. The longer reaction time in DMSO solution up to 30 h at high temperature was required.
Study on modifying the Au surface by thiol compound for biosensor application
Authors: Phan Khoa Thanh Nhat , Nguyen Thanh Trung , Phan Tuan Van , Pham Binh Van , Pham Tung Xuan Thanh , Le Tuyen Thi Thanh , Tong Hien Duy
Published: October 2018

In cantilever-based biosensor, Au surface plays two essential roles: as a surface to reflect laser beam and as a surface to be modified and thus functionalize the sensor. In this paper, we researched on modifying the Au surface by cysteamine and glutaraldehyde to make it reactive toward amine substances. Cysteamine concentration, cysteamine treatment time and glutaraldehyde treatment time were investigated to find optimal values. The data of chromogenic reaction catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase (HRP) and the data of water contact angle measurement were combined to find the optimal values. The results showed that the modification with 5 mM cysteamine in ethanol for 16 h and glutaraldehyde for 1 h would create the Au surface which can react optimally with amine substances.
Study on the selenium absorptive ability of Ophiocordyceps sinensis fungus in liquid cultures
Authors: Tran Trang Minh , Pham Dung Tien , Le Phong Quoc , Dinh Hiep Minh
Published: October 2018

Ophiocordyceps sinensis is a medicinal mushroom which is highly valued in traditional and modern medicine. Besides, selenium (Se) is an essential trace element in the human body. Therefore, the study on selenium accumulation ability of O. sinensis fungus to improve its bioactivities as well as selenium bioavailability is extremely imperative. In this research, O. sinensis cultured on liquid medium with sodium selenite (Se+4) or sodium selenate (Se+6) at 0–30 mg/L concentrations, then isolated three selenium-containing compounds including selenium-exopolysaccharide (Se-EPS), selenium-polysaccharide (Se-PS) and selenium-protein (Se-Pr). The results showed that the growth and selenium cumulation of O. sinensis at 25 mg/L Se6+ were the best with the biomass and selenium levels reached 14.52 ± 0.82 g/L and 1644.83 ± 116.45 μg/g, respectively. Of those, the selenium composition in organic compounds was 568.84 ± 12.86 μg/g in Se-EPS, 429.68 ± 22.17μg/g in Se-PS and 443.19 ± 18.48 μg/g in Se-Pr. Moreover, the FT-IR analysis of the aforementioned compounds determined the presence of Se=O and C-O-Se stretching vibration at the featured absorption peaks. Consequently, these results have demonstrated that O. sinensis is capable to transform inorganic Se into organic Se forms during its development process. Finally, this study will create premises and scientific basis for the further study on the Se-enriched substances in O. sinensis mushroom.
Aggregated Sa Huynh heritage with some recognitions
Authors: Pham Manh Duc
Published: October 2018

The paper introduces the achievements from the explorations, excavations, verifications and new studies and fundamental awareness of the unusually excellent cultural tradition named “Sa Huỳnh Complex”. Based on the data of one-century discovery and research, the author clearly states his viewpoints on the “Cultural Space” of the Southernmost central regions of “Sa Huỳnh Complex” with unique characteristics in the regional distribution and time of its existence and development. The author explains the main following ideas: + Quantitative and qualitative features of Sa Huynh complex in time and flat space to survive as well as its accretion through which some speculations were raised about the origin of Sa Huynh and its internal and external features. + Finally, some concerns about the unresolved dilemma of Sa Huynh in terms of academic, research and preservation systems of Sa Huynh heritage "for today and for immortality” in face of the risk of damage and destruction of the legacy of Sa Huynh.
Japan’s political solution in Vietnam from March 1945 to August 1945
Authors: Phan Ca Van
Published: October 2018

After the coup d'etat of the French colonial administration in Indochina ending the period of Japan-France co-governing, the Japanese government publicized its policy to support the foundation of Vietnam’s “independence”. However, the overall view of the political context of the time, the establishment of the Bao Dai-Tran Trong Kim government is a Japanese solution to Vietnam’s situation in the post-coup d'etat period. This solution stemmed from the plans of the Japanese ruling authorities and the specific historical context in Vietnam at that time. For Japan, the ultimate goal which needed to be reached after the coup was not to affect the effort of the war. For France, not only they lost colonies but also their standing position was underestimated in the eyes of the colonists. For the relationship between Japan and Vietnam, the nature and its motive would change in the way as it should have been.
PERAN AUDIT MANAJEMEN SUMBER DAYA MANUSIA TERHADAP KINERJA KARYAWAN INSTALASI RAWAT INAP DI RUMAH SAKIT (Studi Kasus pada Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah Dr. Soedirman Kebumen)
Authors: Astuti Susi
Published: October 2018

The development of hospital management, both from management and operational aspects is strongly influenced by various demands from the environment and technological progress, including the need for internal and external examination. Various problems arise along with hospital demands that must always improve its services, such as government regulations, financial management policies, the accuracy of information systems, the use of information technology, the adequacy of capital and Human Resources.The effectiveness and efficiency of health services such as care, treatment, examination, medical treatment, and other good diagnostics will affect patient satisfaction levels in the hospital. The management of the hospital is required to be able to plan, mobilize, organize, and coordinate the activities of professional and non-professional workers.The role of human resource functions towards the achievement of overall organizational goals will require an assessment and evaluation of the implementation of human resource programs developed in the function of each human resource. Assessment and evaluation conducted to find out all planned programs whether the implementation is maximal or not If indeed in practice has not been implemented with the maximum, it will look for solutions to overcome these problems. One way to assess this is to carry out management audits on human resource functions. Keywords: Management Audits, Human Resources, performance
Orientasi Kewirausahaan, Kreativitas Program Pemasaran serta Pengaruhnya terhadap Kinerja Pemasaran UMKM: Sebuah agenda Penelitian
Authors: Wiwoho Gunarso
Published: October 2018

This concept aims to explain the entrepreneurial orientation, and the creativity of marketing programs on the performance of MSMEs by being mediated by environmental factors. The general proposition in this theory is that marketing performance is a consequence of fit or match or harmony between two or more factors. In the existing studies, it was stated that the entrepreneurial orientation that was used had a significant effect on improving marketing performance. This relationship is not direct, but there are contextual factors that exist in the relationship of entrepreneurial orientation and creativity of marketing programs with marketing performance. The more fit the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and marketing program creativity with contextual factors, the higher the performance achieved. In a conceptual research in an effort to clarify the constructs of entrepreneurial orientation and the creativity of marketing programs and their relationship to marketing performance, it states that contextual factors are environmental factors. Based on the literature review on the analysis of the factors that influence marketing performance with environmental factors as moderating variables, the theoretical framework that underlies this research concept is developed. In the model or framework, there is a direct influence between entrepreneurial orientation and marketing program creativity on marketing performance. Besides also seen the moderating influence of environmental variables on the relationship.

 

Keywords: Entrepreneurship Orientation, Marketing Program Creativity, Environmental Factors, and MSME Marketing Performance.
Bactericidal Property of Oregano Oil Against Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Isolates
Authors: Lu Min , Dai Tianhong , Murray Clinton K. , Wu Mei X.
Published: October 2018

Development of non-antibiotic alternatives to treat infections caused by multidrug-resistant (MDR) microbes represents one of the top priorities in healthcare and community settings, especially in the care of combat trauma-associated wound infections. Here, we investigate efficacy of oregano oil against pathogenic bacteria including MDR isolates from the combat casualties in vitro and in a mouse burn model. Oregano oil showed a significant anti-bacterial activity against 11 MDR clinical isolates including four Acinetobacter baumannii, three Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and four methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) obtained from combat casualties and two luminescent strains of PA01 and MRSA USA300, with a MIC ranging from 0.08 mg/ml to 0.64 mg/ml. Oregano oil also effectively eradicated biofilms formed by each of the 13 pathogens above at similar MICs. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that oregano oil damaged bacterial cells and altered the morphology of their biofilms. While efficiently inactivating bacteria, there was no evidence of resistance development after up to 20 consecutive passages of representative bacterial strains in the presence of sublethal doses of oregano oil. In vivo study using the third-degree burn wounds infected with PA01 or USA300 demonstrated that oregano oil, topically applied 24 h after bacterial inoculation, sufficiently reduced the bacterial load in the wounds by 3 log10 in 1 h, as measured by drastic reduction of bacterial bioluminescence. This bactericidal activity of oregano oil concurred with no significant side effect on the skin histologically or genotoxicity after three topical applications of oregano oil at 10 mg/ml for three consecutive days. The investigation suggests potentials of oregano oil as an alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of wound-associated infections regardless of antibiotic susceptibility.
POMDP-Based Throughput Maximization for Cooperative Communications Networks with Energy-Constrained Relay under Attack in the Physical Layer
Authors: Giang Hoang Thi Huong , Vu-Van Hiep , Koo Insoo
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we investigate jamming attacks in the physical layer against cooperative communications networks, where a jammer tries to block the data communication between the source and destination. An energy-constrained relay is able to assist the source to forward the data to the destination even when the jammer tries to block the direct link. Due to a limited-capacity battery of the relay, a non-radio frequency energy harvester equipped in the relay helps to prolong its operation. We propose a scheme based on a partially observable Markov decision process (POMDP) to find the optimal action for the source such that we can maximize the achievable throughput of cooperative communications networks. Under this scheme, the source dynamically selects the appropriate action mode for its transmission in order to obtain maximum throughput under the jamming attack. Simulation results verify that the proposed scheme is superior to the Myopic scheme where only current throughput is taken into account for making decisions.
Numerical Analysis for Performance Evaluation of a Multi-Functional CO2 Heat Pump Water Heating System
Authors: Yokoyama Ryohei , Ohkura Masashi , Nakamata Takuya , Wakui Tetsuya
Published: October 2018

In recent years, CO2 heat pump water heating systems have been developed, and their performances have been enhanced while their functions have been expanded. In a multi-functional system, used for both hot water supply and bath heating, hot water retrieved from the top of a storage tank is returned to its bottom or side after heat exchange for bath heating, which destroys the stratified temperature distribution in the storage tank and degrades the system performance. In this paper, the performance of a multi-functional CO2 heat pump water heating system has been evaluated by numerical simulation. A system model was created by combining component models for a CO2 heat pump, mixing valves, a storage tank, a heat exchanger, and a bathtub. Partly, perfect mixing by hot water return was assumed in the component model for the storage tank, and its validity was verified through experiments. A performance analysis has been conducted under daily repeated hot water and bath heating demands, and the system performance was evaluated at a periodically steady state. As a result, the system efficiency and the volume of unused hot water in the multi-functional system decreased by 4.9% and 16.3%, respectively, as compared to those in the uni-functional system, when hot water returned to the bottom of the storage tank. When the position for hot water return is heightened, the system efficiency becomes higher than that in the uni-functional system, while the volume of unused hot water decreases furthermore.
High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry Identification of Secondary Metabolites in Four Red Grape Varieties Potentially Useful as Traceability Markers of Wines
Authors: Mayr Christine M. , De Rosso Mirko , Dalla Vedova Antonio , Flamini Riccardo
Published: October 2018

Liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-Q/TOF) is a powerful tool to perform chemotaxonomic studies through identification of grape secondary metabolites. In the present work, the metabolomes of four autochthonous Italian red grape varieties including the chemical classes of anthocyanins, flavonols/flavanols/flavanones, and terpenol glycosides, were studied. By using this information, the metabolites that can potentially be used as chemical markers for the traceability of the corresponding wines were proposed. In Raboso wines, relatively high abundance of both anthocyanic and non-anthocyanic acyl derivatives, is expected. Potentially, Primitivo wines are characterized by high tri-substituted flavonoids, while Corvina wines are characterized by higher di-substituted compounds and lower acyl derivatives. Negro Amaro wine’s volatile fraction is characterized by free monoterpenes, such as α-terpineol, linalool, geraniol, and Ho-diendiol I. A similar approach can be applied for the traceability of other high-quality wines.
Role of Milk-Derived Antibacterial Peptides in Modern Food Biotechnology: Their Synthesis, Applications and Future Perspectives
Authors: Khan Muhammad Usman , Pirzadeh Maryam , Förster Carola Yvette , Shityakov Sergey , Shariati Mohammad Ali
Published: October 2018

Milk-derived antibacterial peptides (ABPs) are protein fragments with a positive influence on the functions and conditions of a living organism. Milk-derived ABPs have several useful properties important for human health, comprising a significant antibacterial effect against various pathogens, but contain toxic side-effects. These compounds are mainly produced from milk proteins via fermentation and protein hydrolysis. However, they can also be produced using recombinant DNA techniques or organic synthesis. This review describes the role of milk-derived ABPs in modern food biotechnology with an emphasis on their synthesis and applications. Additionally, we also discuss the mechanisms of action and the main bioproperties of ABPs. Finally, we explore future perspectives for improving ABP physicochemical properties and diminishing their toxic side-effects.
Entropic Steering Criteria: Applications to Bipartite and Tripartite Systems
Authors: Costa Ana , Uola Roope , Gühne Otfried
Published: October 2018

The effect of quantum steering describes a possible action at a distance via local measurements. Whereas many attempts on characterizing steerability have been pursued, answering the question as to whether a given state is steerable or not remains a difficult task. Here, we investigate the applicability of a recently proposed method for building steering criteria from generalized entropic uncertainty relations. This method works for any entropy which satisfy the properties of (i) (pseudo-) additivity for independent distributions; (ii) state independent entropic uncertainty relation (EUR); and (iii) joint convexity of a corresponding relative entropy. Our study extends the former analysis to Tsallis and Rényi entropies on bipartite and tripartite systems. As examples, we investigate the steerability of the three-qubit GHZ and W states.
Thermodynamic Model for Performance Analysis of a Stirling Engine Prototype
Authors: Torres García Miguel , Carvajal Trujillo Elisa , Vélez Godiño José Antonio , Sánchez Martínez David
Published: October 2018

In this study, the results of simulations generated from different thermodynamic models of Stirling engines are compared, including characterizations of both instantaneous and indicated operative parameters. The aim was to develop a tool to guide the decision-making process regarding the optimization of both the performance and reliability of Stirling engines, such as the 2.9 kW GENOA 03 unit—the focus of this work. The behavior of the engine is characterized using two different approaches: an ideal isothermal model, the simplest of those available, and analysis using the ideal adiabatic model, which is more complex than the first. Some of the results obtained with the referred ideal models deviated considerably from the expected values, particularly in terms of thermal efficiency, so a set of modifications to the ideal adiabatic model are proposed. These modifications, mainly related to both heat transfer and fluid friction phenomena, are intended to overcome the limitations due to the idealization of the engine working cycle, and are expected to generate results closer to the actual behavior of the Stirling engine, despite the increase in the complexity derived from the modelling and simulation processes.
Thermal Performance Enhancement of a Cross-Flow-Type Maisotsenko Heat and Mass Exchanger Using Various Nanofluids
Authors: Tariq Rasikh , Zhan Changhong , Ahmed Sheikh Nadeem , Zhao Xudong
Published: October 2018

The incorporation of a Maisotsenko (M) Cycle into an indirect evaporative cooler has led to the achievement of sub-wet bulb temperature without any humidification, thus making it a possible green and sustainable alternative for handling the cooling load of a building. In this work, the thermal performance of a cross-flow heat and mass exchanger (HMX) is enhanced by the addition of nanoparticles in the wet channel because they significantly influence the heat and mass transfer characteristics of the base fluid. A governing model for the temperature and humidity variations of the HMX is numerically simulated. Initial benchmarking is achieved using water properties. Afterward, a comparative study is conducted using aluminum-oxide-, copper-oxide-, and titanium-oxide-based nanofluids. Enhancements of 24.2% in heat flux, 19.24% in wet bulb effectiveness, 7.04% in dew point effectiveness, 29.66% in cooling capacity, and 28.43% in energy efficiency ratio are observed by using alumina-based nanofluid as compared to water in the wet channel of the cross-flow HMX. Furthermore, a particle volume concentration of 1% and a particle diameter of 20nm are recommended for maximum performance.
A Trading-Based Evaluation of Density Forecasts in a Real-Time Electricity Market
Authors: Bunn Derek W. , Gianfreda Angelica , Kermer Stefan
Published: October 2018

This paper applies a multi-factor, stochastic latent moment model to predicting the imbalance volumes in the Austrian zone of the German/Austrian electricity market. This provides a density forecast whose shape is determined by the flexible skew-t distribution, the first three moments of which are estimated as linear functions of lagged imbalance and forecast errors for load, wind and solar production. The evaluation of this density predictor is compared to an expected value obtained from OLS regression model, using the same regressors, through an out-of-sample backtest of a flexible generator seeking to optimize its imbalance positions on the intraday market. This research contributes to forecasting methodology and imbalance prediction, and most significantly it provides a case study in the evaluation of density forecasts through decision-making performance. The main finding is that the use of the density forecasts substantially increased trading profitability and reduced risk compared to the more conventional use of mean value regressions.
Increased Forest Soil CO2 and N2O Emissions During Insect Infestation
Authors: Grüning Maren Marine , Germeshausen Franziska , Thies Carsten , L.-M.-Arnold Anne
Published: October 2018

Forest soils are major sinks of terrestrial carbon, but this function may be threatened by mass outbreak events of forest pests. Here, we measured soil CO2-C and N2O-N fluxes from a Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) forest that was heavily infested by the nun moth (Lymantria monacha L.) and an adjacent noninfested (control) forest site during one year. In the infested forest, net emissions of CO2-C were higher during main defoliation, summer and autumn, while indications of increased N2O-N emissions were found at one sampling date. On basis of this, a microcosm incubation experiment with different organic matter treatments was conducted. Soil treatments with needle litter, insect feces plus needle litter, and insect feces showed 3.7-, 10.6-, and 13.5-fold higher CO2-C emissions while N2O-N of the insect feces plus needle litter, and insect feces treatment was 8.9-, and 10.4-fold higher compared with soil treatments without added organic matter (control). Hence, the defoliation in combination with high inputs of organic matter during insect outbreaks distinctly accelerate decomposition processes in pine forest soils, which in turn alters forests nutrient cycling and the functioning of forests as carbon sinks.
How to Split Gains and Losses? Experimental Evidence of Dictator and Ultimatum Games
Authors: Neumann Thomas , Kierspel Sabrina , Windrich Ivo , Berger Roger , Vogt Bodo
Published: October 2018

Previous research has typically focused on distribution problems that emerge in the domain of gains. Only a few studies have distinguished between games played in the domain of gains from games in the domain of losses, even though, for example, prospect theory predicts differences between behavior in both domains. In this study, we experimentally analyze players’ behavior in dictator and ultimatum games when they need to divide a monetary loss and then compare this to behavior when players have to divide a monetary gain. We find that players treat gains and losses differently in that they are less generous in games over losses and react differently to prior experiences. Players in the dictator game become more selfish after they have had the experience of playing an ultimatum game first.
Fine-Scale Source Apportionment Including Diesel-Related Elemental and Organic Constituents of PM2.5 across Downtown Pittsburgh
Authors: Tunno Brett J. , Tripathy Sheila , Kinnee Ellen , Michanowicz Drew R. , Shmool Jessie LC , Cambal Leah , Chubb Lauren , Roper Courtney , Clougherty Jane E.
Published: October 2018

Health effects of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) may vary by composition, and the characterization of constituents may help to identify key PM2.5 sources, such as diesel, distributed across an urban area. The composition of diesel particulate matter (DPM) is complicated, and elemental and organic carbon are often used as surrogates. Examining multiple elemental and organic constituents across urban sites, however, may better capture variation in diesel-related impacts, and help to more clearly separate diesel from other sources. We designed a “super-saturation” monitoring campaign of 36 sites to capture spatial variance in PM2.5 and elemental and organic constituents across the downtown Pittsburgh core (~2.8 km2). Elemental composition was assessed via inductively-coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), organic and elemental carbon via thermal-optical reflectance, and organic compounds via thermal desorption gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry (TD-GCMS). Factor analysis was performed including all constituents—both stratified by, and merged across, seasons. Spatial patterning in the resultant factors was examined using land use regression (LUR) modelling to corroborate factor interpretations. We identified diesel-related factors in both seasons; for winter, we identified a five-factor solution, describing a bus and truck-related factor [black carbon (BC), fluoranthene, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), pyrene, total carbon] and a fuel oil combustion factor (nickel, vanadium). For summer, we identified a nine-factor solution, which included a bus-related factor (benzo[ghi]fluoranthene, chromium, chrysene, fluoranthene, manganese, pyrene, total carbon, total elemental carbon, zinc) and a truck-related factor (benz[a]anthracene, BC, hopanes, NO2, total PAHs, total steranes). Geographic information system (GIS)-based emissions source covariates identified via LUR modelling roughly corroborated factor interpretations.