bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Vertical Vibration on Nanoscale Friction: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study
Authors: Cheng Yang , Zhu Pengzhe , Li Rui
Published: March 2018

The influence of vibration on friction at the nanoscale was studied via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results show that average friction increases in a high-frequency range. This can be attributed to the vibration of the tip following vibration excitation, which results in peaks of repulsive interaction between tip and substrate and leads to higher friction. However, when the frequency is lower than a certain value, friction decreases. This is because vibration excitation results not in an obvious vibration of the tip but in a slightly larger interface distance, which leads to a decrease in friction.
Gaussian Optimality for Derivatives of Differential Entropy Using Linear Matrix Inequalities
Authors: Zhang Xiaobing , Anantharam Venkat , Geng Yanlin
Published: March 2018

Let Z be a standard Gaussian random variable, X be independent of Z, and t be a strictly positive scalar. For the derivatives in t of the differential entropy of X + t Z , McKean noticed that Gaussian X achieves the extreme for the first and second derivatives, among distributions with a fixed variance, and he conjectured that this holds for general orders of derivatives. This conjecture implies that the signs of the derivatives alternate. Recently, Cheng and Geng proved that this alternation holds for the first four orders. In this work, we employ the technique of linear matrix inequalities to show that: firstly, Cheng and Geng’s method may not generalize to higher orders; secondly, when the probability density function of X + t Z is log-concave, McKean’s conjecture holds for orders up to at least five. As a corollary, we also recover Toscani’s result on the sign of the third derivative of the entropy power of X + t Z , using a much simpler argument.
A Lower Bound on the Differential Entropy of Log-Concave Random Vectors with Applications
Authors: Marsiglietti Arnaud , Kostina Victoria
Published: March 2018

We derive a lower bound on the differential entropy of a log-concave random variable X in terms of the p-th absolute moment of X. The new bound leads to a reverse entropy power inequality with an explicit constant, and to new bounds on the rate-distortion function and the channel capacity. Specifically, we study the rate-distortion function for log-concave sources and distortion measure

d

(
x
,

x
^

)

=

|
x
−

x
^

|

r

, with

r
≥
1

, and we establish that the difference between the rate-distortion function and the Shannon lower bound is at most

log
(

π
e

)
≈
1
.
5

bits, independently of r and the target distortion d. For mean-square error distortion, the difference is at most

log
(

π
e

2

)
≈
1

bit, regardless of d. We also provide bounds on the capacity of memoryless additive noise channels when the noise is log-concave. We show that the difference between the capacity of such channels and the capacity of the Gaussian channel with the same noise power is at most

log
(

π
e

2

)
≈
1

bit. Our results generalize to the case of a random vector X with possibly dependent coordinates. Our proof technique leverages tools from convex geometry.
Optimal Weighting for Exam Composition
Authors: Ganzfried Sam , Yusuf Farzana
Published: March 2018

A problem faced by many instructors is that of designing exams that accurately assess the abilities of the students. Typically, these exams are prepared several days in advance, and generic question scores are used based on rough approximation of the question difficulty and length. For example, for a recent class taught by the author, there were 30 multiple choice questions worth 3 points, 15 true/false with explanation questions worth 4 points, and 5 analytical exercises worth 10 points. We describe a novel framework where algorithms from machine learning are used to modify the exam question weights in order to optimize the exam scores, using the overall final score as a proxy for a student’s true ability. We show that significant error reduction can be obtained by our approach over standard weighting schemes, i.e., for the final and midterm exam, the mean absolute error for prediction decreases by 90.58% and 97.70% for linear regression approach respectively resulting in better estimation. We make several new observations regarding the properties of the “good” and “bad” exam questions that can have impact on the design of improved future evaluation methods.
Co-Combustion of Low-Rank Coal with Woody Biomass and Miscanthus: An Experimental Study
Authors: Kazagic Anes , Hodzic Nihad , Metovic Sadjit
Published: March 2018

This paper presents a research on ash-related problems and emissions during co-firing low-rank Bosnian coals with different kinds of biomass; in this case woody sawdust and herbaceous energy crops Miscanthus. An entrained-flow drop tube furnace was used for the tests, varying fuel portions at a high co-firing ratio up to 30%wt woody sawdust and 10%wt Miscanthus in a fuel blend. The tests were supposed to optimize the process temperature, air distribution (including OFA) and fuel distributions (reburning) as function of SO2 and NOx emissions as well as efficiency of combustion process estimated through the ash deposits behaviors, CO emissions and unburnt. The results for 12 co-firing fuel combinations impose a reasonable expectation that the coal/biomass/Miscanthus blends could be successfully run under certain conditions not producing any serious ash-related problems. SO2 emissions were slightly higher when higher content of woody biomass was used. Oppositely, higher Miscanthus percentage in the fuel mix slightly decreases SO2 emissions. NOx emissions generally decrease with an increase of biomass co-firing rate. The study suggests that co-firing Bosnian coals with woody sawdust and Miscanthus shows promise at higher co-firing ratios for pulverized combustion, giving some directions for further works in co-firing similar multi-fuel combinations.
Adaptive and Nonlinear Control Techniques Applied to SEPIC Converter in DC-DC, PFC, CCM and DCM Modes Using HIL Simulation
Authors: Rosa Arthur , De Souza Thiago , Morais Lenin , Seleme Seleme
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we propose adaptive nonlinear controllers for the Single-Ended Primary Inductance Converter (SEPIC). We also consider four distinct situations: AC-DC, DC-DC, Continuous Conduction Mode (CCM) and Discontinuous Conduction Mode (DCM). A comparative analysis between classic linear and nonlinear approaches to regulate the control loop is made. Three adaptive nonlinear control laws are designed: Feedback Linearization Control (FLC), Passivity-Based Control (PBC) and Interconnection and Damping Assignment Passivity-Based Control (IDAPBC). In order to compare the performance of these control techniques, numerical simulations were made in Software and Hardware in the Loop (HIL) for nominal conditions and operation disturbances. We recommend adaptive controllers for the two different situations: Adaptive Passivity-Based Feedback Linearization Control (APBFLC) for the PFC (Power Factor Correction) AC-DC system and IDAPBC-BB (IDAPBC Based on Boost converter) for the regulator DC-DC system.
A Hysteresis Model for Fixed and Sun Tracking Solar PV Power Generation Systems
Authors: Başaran Filik Ümmühan , Filik Tansu , Gerek Ömer
Published: March 2018

In this study, a new solar photovoltaic (PV) panel output power model is proposed. The model is constructed as a function of ambient temperature and solar radiations for two types (fixed panel and sun tracking panel) of PV systems. The proposed models are tested and verified on the Renewable Energy Research Home (RERH) system that was installed at the Anadolu University campus in Eskişehir, Turkey. The model is deliberately constructed for the winter season, where cloudliness, rain and snow constitute more challenging conditions for modeling. The developed model outcomes are compared to the outputs of state of the art methods that use global solar radiation and temperature data. A total of eight algebraic models are constructed for the purpose of depicting the solar radiation-to-electric power behavior. It is observed that even the least successful one of these eight variants are performing better than the most accurate method in the literature. It is argued that mathematical incorporation of the proposed novel hysteresis functions to the solar radiation-to-power conversion curves results in a richer class of functions and causes a significant accuracy improvement on the mathematical power generation model, even for the most challenging season of winter.
Design and Validation of a Control Algorithm for a SAE J2954-Compliant Wireless Charger to Guarantee the Operational Electrical Constraints
Authors: González-González José , Triviño-Cabrera Alicia , Aguado José
Published: March 2018

Wireless power transfer is foreseen as a suitable technology to provide charge without cables to electric vehicles. This technology is mainly supported by two coupled coils, whose mutual inductance is sensitive to their relative positions. Variations on this coefficient greatly impact the electrical magnitudes of the wireless charger. The aim of this paper is the design and validation of a control algorithm for an Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J2954-compliant wireless charger to guarantee some operational and electrical constraints. These constraints are designed to prevent some components from being damaged by excessive voltage or current. This paper also presents the details for the design and implementation of the bidirectional charger topology in which the proposed controller is incorporated. The controller is installed on the primary and on the secondary side, given that wireless communication is necessary with the other side. The input data of the controller helps it decide about the phase shift required to apply in the DC/AC converter. The experimental results demonstrate how the system regulates the output voltage of the DC/AC converter so that some electrical magnitudes do not exceed predefined thresholds. The regulation, which has been tested when coil misalignments occur, is proven to be effective.
Adaptive Feedback Linearization Based NeuroFuzzy Maximum Power Point Tracking for a Photovoltaic System
Authors: Mumtaz Sidra , Ahmad Saghir , Khan Laiq , Ali Saima , Kamal Tariq , Hassan Syed
Published: March 2018

In the current smart grid scenario, the evolution of a proficient and robust maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm for a PV subsystem has become imperative due to the fluctuating meteorological conditions. In this paper, an adaptive feedback linearization-based NeuroFuzzy MPPT (AFBLNF-MPPT) algorithm for a photovoltaic (PV) subsystem in a grid-integrated hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) is proposed. The performance of the stated (AFBLNF-MPPT) control strategy is approved through a comprehensive grid-tied HRES test-bed established in MATLAB/Simulink. It outperforms the incremental conductance (IC) based adaptive indirect NeuroFuzzy (IC-AIndir-NF) control scheme, IC-based adaptive direct NeuroFuzzy (IC-ADir-NF) control system, IC-based adaptive proportional-integral-derivative (IC-AdapPID) control scheme, and conventional IC algorithm for a PV subsystem in both transient as well as steady-state modes for varying temperature and irradiance profiles. The comparative analyses were carried out on the basis of performance indexes and efficiency of MPPT.
A Simplified Design Strategy for Multi-Resonant Current Control of a Grid-Connected Voltage Source Inverter with an LCL Filter
Authors: Schiesser Matthias , Wasterlain Sébastien , Marchesoni Mario , Carpita Mauro
Published: March 2018

A distorted grid voltage or nonlinear behavior in the current control loop can cause low frequency current harmonics in a grid-connected voltage source inverter (VSI). Many efforts have been made to mitigate such phenomena, including hardware and/or control structure improvements. A well-known suitable strategy to reduce current harmonics in a selective manner is to apply a Proportional Multi-Resonant (PMR) current controller. Inverter-grid stability is another common issue when dealing with grid-connected VSI. Stability is influenced by the inverter impedance, which depends on the controller parameters. This paper presents a simplified tuning strategy for the PMR controller, taking into consideration the inverter-grid stability issue. The obtained controller was implemented and tested in a 10 kW three-phase inverter with a passively damped LCL filter. A significant reduction of current harmonics emission from the inverter up to 650 Hz was achieved without any hardware modification. The limits of PMR controllers to mitigate current harmonics were studied, and the influence of the grid impedance was verified.
Risk-Based Two-Stage Stochastic Optimization Problem of Micro-Grid Operation with Renewables and Incentive-Based Demand Response Programs
Authors: Sheikhahmadi Pouria , Mafakheri Ramyar , Bahramara Salah , Damavandi Maziar , Catalão João
Published: March 2018

The operation problem of a micro-grid (MG) in grid-connected mode is an optimization one in which the main objective of the MG operator (MGO) is to minimize the operation cost with optimal scheduling of resources and optimal trading energy with the main grid. The MGO can use incentive-based demand response programs (DRPs) to pay an incentive to the consumers to change their demands in the peak hours. Moreover, the MGO forecasts the output power of renewable energy resources (RERs) and models their uncertainties in its problem. In this paper, the operation problem of an MGO is modeled as a risk-based two-stage stochastic optimization problem. To model the uncertainties of RERs, two-stage stochastic programming is considered and conditional value at risk (CVaR) index is used to manage the MGO’s risk-level. Moreover, the non-linear economic models of incentive-based DRPs are used by the MGO to change the peak load. The numerical studies are done to investigate the effect of incentive-based DRPs on the operation problem of the MGO. Moreover, to show the effect of the risk-averse parameter on MGO decisions, a sensitivity analysis is carried out.
Optimal Residential Load Scheduling Under Utility and Rooftop Photovoltaic Units
Authors: Hafeez Ghulam , Javaid Nadeem , Iqbal Sohail , Khan Farman
Published: March 2018

With the rapid advancement in technology, electrical energy consumption is increasing rapidly. Especially, in the residential sector, more than 80% of electrical energy is being consumed because of consumer negligence. This brings the challenging task of maintaining the balance between the demand and supply of electric power. In this paper, we focus on the problem of load balancing via load scheduling under utility and rooftop photovoltaic (PV) units to reduce electricity cost and peak to average ratio (PAR) in demand-side management. For this purpose, we adopted genetic algorithm (GA), binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO), wind-driven optimization (WDO), and our proposed genetic WDO (GWDO) algorithm, which is a hybrid of GA and WDO, to schedule the household load. For energy cost estimation, combined real-time pricing (RTP) and inclined block rate (IBR) were used. The proposed algorithm shifts load from peak consumption hours to off-peak hours based on combined pricing scheme and generation from rooftop PV units. Simulation results validate our proposed GWDO algorithm in terms of electricity cost and PAR reduction while considering all three scenarios which we have considered in this work: (1) load scheduling without renewable energy sources (RESs) and energy storage system (ESS), (2) load scheduling with RESs, and (3) load scheduling with RESs and ESS. Furthermore, our proposed scheme reduced electricity cost and PAR by 22.5% and 29.1% in scenario 1, 47.7% and 30% in scenario 2, and 49.2% and 35.4% in scenario 3, respectively, as compared to unscheduled electricity consumption.
Stochastic Wake Modelling Based on POD Analysis
Authors: Bastine David , Vollmer Lukas , Wächter Matthias , Peinke Joachim
Published: March 2018

In this work, large eddy simulation data is analysed to investigate a new stochastic modeling approach for the wake of a wind turbine. The data is generated by the large eddy simulation (LES) model PALM combined with an actuator disk with rotation representing the turbine. After applying a proper orthogonal decomposition (POD), three different stochastic models for the weighting coefficients of the POD modes are deduced resulting in three different wake models. Their performance is investigated mainly on the basis of aeroelastic simulations of a wind turbine in the wake. Three different load cases and their statistical characteristics are compared for the original LES, truncated PODs and the stochastic wake models including different numbers of POD modes. It is shown that approximately six POD modes are enough to capture the load dynamics on large temporal scales. Modeling the weighting coefficients as independent stochastic processes leads to similar load characteristics as in the case of the truncated POD. To complete this simplified wake description, we show evidence that the small-scale dynamics can be captured by adding to our model a homogeneous turbulent field. In this way, we present a procedure to derive stochastic wake models from costly computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculations or elaborated experimental investigations. These numerically efficient models provide the added value of possible long-term studies. Depending on the aspects of interest, different minimalized models may be obtained.
Relative Greenhouse Gas Abatement Cost Competitiveness of Biofuels in Germany
Authors: Millinger Markus , Meisel Kathleen , Budzinski Maik , Thrän Daniela
Published: March 2018

Transport biofuels derived from biogenic material are used for substituting fossil fuels, thereby abating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Numerous competing conversion options exist to produce biofuels, with differing GHG emissions and costs. In this paper, the analysis and modeling of the long-term development of GHG abatement and relative GHG abatement cost competitiveness between crop-based biofuels in Germany are carried out. Presently dominant conventional biofuels and advanced liquid biofuels were found not to be competitive compared to the substantially higher yielding options available: sugar beet-based ethanol for the short- to medium-term least-cost option and substitute natural gas (SNG) for the medium to long term. The competitiveness of SNG was found to depend highly on the emissions development of the power mix. Silage maize-based biomethane was found competitive on a land area basis, but not on an energetic basis. Due to land limitations, as well as cost and GHG uncertainty, a stronger focus on the land use of crop-based biofuels should be laid out in policy.
Accounting for Energy Cost When Designing Energy-Efficient Wireless Access Networks
Authors: Vallero Greta , Deruyck Margot , Meo Michela , Joseph Wout
Published: March 2018

Because of the increase of the data traffic demand, wireless access networks, through which users access telecommunication services, have expanded, in terms of size and of capability and, consequently, in terms of power consumption. Therefore, costs to buy the necessary power for the supply of base stations of those networks is becoming very high, impacting the communication cost. In this study, strategies to reduce the amount of money spent for the purchase of the energy consumed by the base stations are proposed for a network powered by solar panels, energy batteries and the power grid. First, the variability of the energy prices is exploited. It provides a cost reduction of up to 30%, when energy is bought in advance. If a part of the base stations is deactivated when the energy price is higher than a given threshold, a compromise between the energy cost and the user coverage drop is needed. In the simulated scenario, the necessary energy cost can be reduced by more than 40%, preserving the user coverage by greater than 94%. Second, the network is introduced to the energy market: it buys and sells energy from/to the traditional power grid. Finally, costs are reduced by the reduction of power consumption of the network, achieved by using microcell base stations. In the considered scenario, up to a 31% cost reduction is obtained, without the deterioration of the quality of service, but a huge Capex expenditure is required.
Pilot-Scale Hydrolysis-Aerobic Treatment for Actual Municipal Wastewater: Performance and Microbial Community Analysis
Authors: Bian Xiao , Gong Hui , Wang Kaijun
Published: March 2018

Low-energy cost wastewater treatment is required to change its current energy-intensive status. Although promising, the direct anaerobic digestion of municipal wastewater treatment faces challenges such as low organic content and low temperature, which require further development. The hydrolysis-aerobic system investigated in this study utilized the two well-proven processes of hydrolysis and aerobic oxidation. These have the advantages of efficient COD removal and biodegradability improvement with limited energy cost due to their avoidance of aeration. A pilot-scale hydrolysis-aerobic system was built for performance evaluation with actual municipal wastewater as feed. Results indicated that as high as 39–47% COD removal was achieved with a maximum COD load of 1.10 kg/m3·d. The dominant bacteria phyla included Proteobacteria (36.0%), Planctomycetes (15.4%), Chloroflexi (9.7%), Bacteroidetes (7.7%), Firmicutes (4.4%), Acidobacteria (2.5%), Actinobacteria (1.8%) and Synergistetes (1.3%), while the dominant genera included Thauera (3.42%) and Dechloromonas (3.04%). The absence of methanogens indicates that the microbial community was perfectly retained in the hydrolysis stage instead of in the methane-producing stage.
Range Expansion of Tick Disease Vectors in North America: Implications for Spread of Tick-Borne Disease
Authors: Sonenshine Daniel
Published: March 2018

Ticks are the major vectors of most disease-causing agents to humans, companion animals and wildlife. Moreover, ticks transmit a greater variety of pathogenic agents than any other blood-feeding arthropod. Ticks have been expanding their geographic ranges in recent decades largely due to climate change. Furthermore, tick populations in many areas of their past and even newly established localities have increased in abundance. These dynamic changes present new and increasing severe public health threats to humans, livestock and companion animals in areas where they were previously unknown or were considered to be of minor importance. Here in this review, the geographic status of four representative tick species are discussed in relation to these public health concerns, namely, the American dog tick, Dermacentor variabilis, the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum, the Gulf Coast Tick, Amblyomma maculatum and the black-legged tick, Ixodes scapularis. Both biotic and abiotic factors that may influence future range expansion and successful colony formation in new habitats are discussed.
Multiresistant Bacteria Isolated from Activated Sludge in Austria
Authors: Galler Herbert , Feierl Gebhard , Petternel Christian , Reinthaler Franz , Haas Doris , Habib Juliana , Kittinger Clemens , Luxner Josefa , Zarfel Gernot
Published: March 2018

Wastewater contains different kinds of contaminants, including antibiotics and bacterial isolates with human-generated antibiotic resistances. In industrialized countries most of the wastewater is processed in wastewater treatment plants which do not only include commercial wastewater, but also wastewater from hospitals. Three multiresistant pathogens—extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-harbouring Enterobacteriaceae (Gram negative bacilli), methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin resistant Enterococci (VRE)—were chosen for screening in a state of the art wastewater treatment plant in Austria. Over an investigation period of six months all three multiresistant pathogens could be isolated from activated sludge. ESBL was the most common resistance mechanism, which was found in different species of Enterobacteriaceae, and in one Aeromonas spp. Sequencing of ESBL genes revealed the dominance of genes encoding members of CTX-M β-lactamases family and a gene encoding for PER-1 ESBL was detected for the first time in Austria. MRSA and VRE could be isolated sporadically, including one EMRSA-15 isolate. Whereas ESBL is well documented as a surface water contaminant, reports of MRSA and VRE are rare. The results of this study show that these three multiresistant phenotypes were present in activated sludge, as well as species and genes which were not reported before in the region. The ESBL-harbouring Gram negative bacilli were most common.
Use of Iodine-131 to Tellurium-132 Ratios for Assessing the Relationships between Human Inhaled Radioactivity and Environmental Monitoring after the Accident in Fukushima
Authors: Uchiyama Koji , Miyashita Masami , Tanishima Yoshinobu , Maeda Shigenobu , Sato Hitoshi , Yoshikawa Jun , Watanabe Shuji , Shibata Masamichi , Ohhira Shuji , Kobashi Gen
Published: March 2018

Significant differences in findings were seen between the intake amounts of iodine-131 that were derived from direct measurements and the estimated intake from environmental monitoring data at the Fukushima accident. To clarify these discrepancies, we have investigated the iodine-131 and tellurium-132 body burdens of five human subjects, who after being exposed to a radioactive plume, underwent 21.5 h whole body counter measurements at Fukui Prefectural Hospital, so clear intake scenario and thyroid counter measurement data were available. To determine the iodine-131 and tellurium-132 body burdens, we introduced a new method of whole body counter calibration composed of a self-consistent approach with the time-dependent correction efficiency factors concept. The ratios of iodine-131 to tellurium-132, ranging from 0.96 ± 0.05 to 2.29 ± 0.38, were consistent with results of the environmental measurements. The 24 h iodine uptake values ranging from 12.1–16.0% were within euthyroid range in Japanese people. These results suggest, even if the relatively low thyroid iodine uptake in the Japanese population was taken into consideration, that there is no doubt about the consistency between direct measurements and environmental monitoring data. Adequate intake scenario is suggested to be principally important to estimate the inhaled radioactivity in areas in or around nuclear accidents.
Land Consolidation Suitability Ranking of Cadastral Municipalities: Information-Based Decision-Making Using Multi-Criteria Analyses of Official Registers’ Data
Authors: Tomić Hrvoje , Mastelić Ivić Siniša , Roić Miodrag
Published: March 2018

Fragmented agricultural land raises the costs of agricultural production. The land fragmentation manifests as a large number of relatively small and spatially divided land parcels of each owner. Additionally, the parcels are often very irregular in shape, which hinders an effective application of modern agricultural machinery. A land consolidation procedure, i.e., regrouping and merging partitioned agricultural land into larger and more regular parcels, and simultaneously arranging road and canal networks, enables a significant improvement in the conditions of agricultural production. The basis for conducting land consolidation is the legal framework. Multi-annual and annual plans are to specify priority areas for conducting consolidation. These plans should take into consideration the costs and benefits of land consolidation. To ascertain this, it is necessary to determine areas suitable for consolidation and express their qualitative features in a quantitative manner. The aim of this paper is to explore possibilities of using the official registers’ data to broad selection of land consolidation priority areas. To rank the chosen spatial units, various indicators have been selected and calculated at the state level. Multi-criteria analyses are commonly used as a tool for selection of the optimal solution scenario, using possibly conflicting indicators and measures. The paper used three different multi-criteria methods to determine Cadastral municipalities rankings. These rankings could be used by national agricultural or other spatial planning agencies to increase transparency and effectiveness through information-based decision making.
Measuring the Spatial Relationship Information of Multi-Layered Vector Data
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Shi Wenzhong
Published: March 2018

Geospatial data is a carrier of information that represents the geography of the real world. Measuring the information contents of geospatial data is always a hot topic in spatial-information science. As the main type of geospatial data, spatial vector data models provide an effective framework for encoding spatial relationships and manipulating spatial data. In particular, the spatial relationship information of vector data is a complicated problem but meaningful to help human beings evaluate the complexity of spatial data and thus guide further analysis. However, existing measures of spatial information usually focus on the ‘disjointed’ relationship in one layer and cannot cover the various spatial relationships within the multi-layered structure of vector data. In this study, a new method is proposed to measure the spatial relationship information of multi-layered vector data. The proposed method focuses on spatial distance and topological relationships and provides quantitative measurements by extending the basic thought of Shannon’s entropy. The influence of any vector feature is modeled by introducing the concept of the energy field, and the energy distribution of one layer is described by an energy map and a weight map. An operational process is also proposed to measure the overall information content. Two experiments are conducted to validate the proposed method. In the experiment with real-life data, the proposed method shows the efficiency of the quantification of spatial relationship information under a multi-layered structure. In another experiment with simulated data, the characteristics and advantages of our method are demonstrated through a comparison with classical measurements.
miR-146b Inhibits Glucose Consumption by Targeting IRS1 Gene in Porcine Primary Adipocytes
Authors: Zhu Yan-Ling , Chen Ting , Xiong Jia-Li , Wu Di , Xi Qian-Yun , Luo Jun-Yi , Sun Jia-Jie , Zhang Yong-Liang
Published: March 2018

Adipose tissue plays an important role in energy metabolism. Adipose dysfunction is closely related to obesity and type II diabetes. Glucose uptake is the key step for fat synthesis in adipocyte. miRNAs have been proven to play a crucial role in adipocyte differentiation, adipogenesis and glucose homeostasis. In this paper, we firstly reported that miR-146b decreased glucose consumption by up-regulating miR-146b in a porcine primary adipocyte model, while the inhibitor of endogenous miR-146b rescued the reduction. Then, miR-146b was predicated to target IRS1 by bioinformatics analysis, and a dual-luciferase reporter assay validated this predication. Western blot analyses indicated both IRS1 and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) were down-regulated by miR-146b overexpression. Our study demonstrated that miR-146b regulated glucose homeostasis in porcine primary pre-adipocyte by targeting IRS1, and provided new understandings on regulations of lipogenesis by miRNAs.
Effects of Different Metals on Photosynthesis: Cadmium and Zinc Affect Chlorophyll Fluorescence in Durum Wheat
Authors: Paunov Momchil , Koleva Lyubka , Vassilev Andon , Vangronsveld Jaco , Goltsev Vasilij
Published: March 2018

A comparative study of the effects of exposure to high Cd2+ (50 µM) and excess Zn2+ (600 µM) on photosynthetic performance of hydroponically-grown durum wheat seedlings was performed. At day 8, Cd and Zn were added to the nutrient solution. After 7-days exposure, the chosen concentrations of both metals resulted in similar relative growth rate (RGR) inhibitions of about 50% and comparable retardations of the CO2 assimilation rates (about 30%) in the second developed leaf of wheat seedlings. Analysis of chlorophyll a fluorescence indicated that both metals disturbed photosynthetic electron transport processes which led to a 4- to 5-fold suppression of the efficiency of energy transformation in Photosystem II. Non-specific toxic effects of Cd and Zn, which prevailed, were an inactivation of part of Photosystem II reaction centres and their transformation into excitation quenching forms as well as disturbed electron transport in the oxygen-evolving complex. The specificity of the Cd and Zn modes of action was mainly expressed in the intensity of the toxicity effects: despite the similar inhibitions of the CO2 assimilation rates, the wheat photochemistry showed much more sensitivity to Cd than to Zn exposure.
Biological Activities of Stilbenoids
Authors: Akinwumi Bolanle , Bordun Kimberly-Ann , Anderson Hope
Published: March 2018

Stilbenoids are a group of naturally occurring phenolic compounds found in various plant species. They share a common backbone structure known as stilbene, but differ in the nature and position of substituents. Stilbenoids are classified as phytoalexins, which are antimicrobial compounds produced de novo in plants to protect against fungal infection and toxins. In this review, the biological effects of stilbenoids such as resveratrol, pterostilbene, gnetol and piceatannol are discussed. Stilbenoids exert various biological activities ranging from cardioprotection, neuroprotection, anti-diabetic properties, depigmentation, anti-inflammation, cancer prevention and treatment. The results presented cover a myriad of models, from cell culture to animal studies as well as clinical human trials. Although positive results were obtained in most cell culture and animal studies, further human studies are needed to substantiate beneficial effects of stilbenoids. Resveratrol remains the most widely studied stilbenoid. However, there is limited information regarding the potential of less common stilbenoids. Therefore, further research is warranted to evaluate the salutary effects of various stilbenoids.
Imaging Neuronal Activity in the Optic Tectum of Late Stage Larval Zebrafish
Authors: Bergmann Katharina , Meza Santoscoy Paola , Lygdas Konstantinos , Nikolaeva Yulia , MacDonald Ryan , Cunliffe Vincent , Nikolaev Anton
Published: March 2018

The zebrafish is an established model to study the development and function of visual neuronal circuits in vivo, largely due to their optical accessibility at embryonic and larval stages. In the past decade multiple experimental paradigms have been developed to study visually-driven behaviours, particularly those regulated by the optic tectum, the main visual centre in lower vertebrates. With few exceptions these techniques are limited to young larvae (7–9 days post-fertilisation, dpf). However, many forms of visually-driven behaviour, such as shoaling, emerge at later developmental stages. Consequently, there is a need for an experimental paradigm to image the visual system in zebrafish larvae beyond 9 dpf. Here, we show that using NBT:GCaMP3 line allows for imaging neuronal activity in the optic tectum in late stage larvae until at least 21 dpf. Utilising this line, we have characterised the receptive field properties of tectal neurons of the 2–3 weeks old fish in the cell bodies and the neuropil. The NBT:GCaMP3 line provides a complementary approach and additional opportunities to study neuronal activity in late stage zebrafish larvae.
Interfaces between Model Co-W-C Alloys with Various Carbon Contents and Tungsten Carbide
Authors: Konyashin Igor , Zaitsev Alexander , Meledin Alexander , Mayer Joachim , Loginov Pavel , Levashov Evgeny , Ries Bernd
Published: March 2018

Interfaces between alloys simulating binders in WC-Co cemented carbides and tungsten carbide were examined on the micro-, nano-, and atomic-scale. The precipitation of fine WC grains and η-phase occurs at the interface of the alloy with the low carbon content. The precipitation of such grains almost does not occur in the alloy with the medium-low carbon content and does not take place in the alloy with the high carbon content. The formation of Co nanoparticles in the binder alloy with the medium-low carbon content was established. Interfaces in the alloy with the medium-low carbon content characterized by complete wetting with respect to WC and with the high carbon content characterized by incomplete wetting were examined at an atomic scale. The absence of any additional phases or carbon segregations at both of the interfaces was established. Thus, the phenomenon of incomplete wetting of WC by liquid binders with high carbon contents is presumably related to special features of the Co-based binder alloys oversaturated with carbon at sintering temperatures.
Trifunctional Epoxy Resin Composites Modified by Soluble Electrospun Veils: Effect on the Viscoelastic and Morphological Properties
Authors: Ognibene Giulia , Mannino Salvatore , Fragalà Maria , Cicala Gianluca
Published: March 2018

Electrospun veils from copolyethersulfones (coPES) were prepared as soluble interlaminar veils for carbon fiber/epoxy composites. Neat, resin samples were impregnated into coPES veils with unmodified resin, while dry carbon fabrics were covered with electrospun veils and then infused with the unmodified epoxy resin to prepare reinforced laminates. The thermoplastic content varied from 10 wt% to 20 wt%. TGAP epoxy monomer showed improved and fast dissolution for all the temperatures tested. The unreinforced samples were cured first at 180 °C for 2 h and then were post-cured at 220 °C for 3 h. These sample showed a high dependence on the curing cycle. Carbon reinforced samples showed significant differences compared to the neat resin samples in terms of both viscoelastic and morphological properties.
Strain Behavior of Concrete Panels Subjected to Different Nose Shapes of Projectile Impact
Authors: Lee Sangkyu , Kim Gyuyong , Kim Hongseop , Son Minjae , Choe Gyeongcheol , Nam Jeongsoo
Published: March 2018

This study evaluates the fracture properties and rear-face strain distribution of nonreinforced and hooked steel fiber-reinforced concrete panels penetrated by projectiles of three different nose shapes: sharp, hemispherical, and flat. The sharp projectile nose resulted in a deeper penetration because of the concentration of the impact force. Conversely, the flat projectile nose resulted in shallower penetrations. The penetration based on different projectile nose shapes is directly related to the impact force transmitted to the rear face. Scabbing can be more accurately predicted by the tensile strain on the rear face of concrete due to the projectile nose shape. The tensile strain on the rear face of the concrete was reduced by the hooked steel fiber reinforcement because the hooked steel fiber absorbed some of the impact stress transmitted to the rear face of the concrete. Consequently, the strain behavior on the rear face of concrete according to the projectile nose shape was confirmed.
Factors Affecting the Power Conversion Efficiency in ZnO DSSCs: Nanowire vs. Nanoparticles
Authors: Giannouli Myrsini , Govatsi Κaterina , Syrrokostas George , Yannopoulos Spyros , Leftheriotis George
Published: March 2018

A comparative assessment of nanowire versus nanoparticle-based ZnO dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is conducted to investigate the main parameters that affect device performance. Towards this aim, the influence of film morphology, dye adsorption, electron recombination and sensitizer pH on the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the DSSCs is examined. Nanoparticle-based DSSCs with PCEs of up to 6.2% are developed and their main characteristics are examined. The efficiency of corresponding devices based on nanowire arrays (NW) is considerably lower (0.63%) by comparison, mainly due to low light harvesting ability of ZnO nanowire films. The dye loading of nanowire films is found to be approximately an order of magnitude lower than that of nanoparticle-based ones, regardless of their internal surface area. Inefficient anchoring of dye molecules on the semiconductor surface due to repelling electrostatic forces is identified as the main reason for this low dye loading. We propose a method of modifying the sensitizer solution by altering its pH, thereby enhancing dye adsorption. We report an increase in the PCE of nanowire DSSCs from 0.63% to 1.84% as a direct result of using such a modified dye solution.
Sulfide Stress Cracking Behavior of a Martensitic Steel Controlled by Tempering Temperature
Authors: Sun Yu , Wang Qian , Gu Shunjie , He Zaoneng , Wang Qingfeng , Zhang Fucheng
Published: March 2018

A medium-carbon Cr–Mo–V martensitic steel was thermally processed by quenching (Q) at 890 °C and tempering (T) at increasing temperatures from 650 °C to 720 °C and the effect of tempering temperature, Tt, on sulfide stress cracking (SSC) behaviors was estimated mainly via double cantilever beam (DCB) and electrochemical hydrogen permeation (EHP) tests and microstructure characterization. The results indicate that the threshold stress intensity factor for SSC, KISSC, increased with increasing Tt. The overall and local H concentration around the inclusions decreased with increasing Tt, due to reductions in the amounts of solute atoms, grain boundaries and dislocations, which effectively prevented SSC initiation. Also, increasing Tt caused an increased fraction of high-angle boundaries, which evidently lowered the SSC propagation rate by more frequently diverting the propagating direction and accordingly restricted SSC propagation. The overall SSC resistance of this Q&T–treated steel was therefore significantly enhanced.
Fluostatins M–Q Featuring a 6-5-6-6 Ring Skeleton and High Oxidized A-Rings from Marine Streptomyces sp. PKU-MA00045
Authors: Jin Jing , Yang Xiaoyan , Liu Tan , Xiao Hua , Wang Guiyang , Zhou Mengjie , Liu Fawang , Zhang Yingtao , Liu Dong , Chen Minghua , Cheng Wei , Yang Donghui , Ma Ming
Published: March 2018

Aromatic polyketides from marine actinomycetes have received increasing attention due to their unusual structures and potent bioactivities. Compared to their terrestrial counterparts, marine aromatic polyketides have been less discovered and their structural and biological diversities are far from being fully investigated. In this study, we employed a PCR-based genome mining method to discover aromatic polyketides in our marine bacteria collection. Five new atypical angucyclinones, fluostatins M–Q (1–5) featuring a unique 6-5-6-6 ring skeleton, were discovered from one “positive” Streptomyces sp. PKU-MA00045. The structures of fluostatins M–Q (1–5) were elucidated based on comprehensive spectroscopic analyses and the crystallographic structure of fluostatin P (4), which contains the most oxidized A-ring, was solved by X-ray diffraction analysis with Cu Kα radiation. Compared to the published 16 fluostatin analogues, fluostatins M–Q (1–5) contained a different methoxy group attached at C-7 and hydroxy group attached at C-4, enriching the structural diversity of aromatic polyketides from marine actinomycetes. Genome sequencing of Streptomyces sp. PKU-MA00045 revealed the biosynthetic gene cluster of fluostatins M–Q (1–5), which contained different genes and gene organizations compared to known fluostatin gene clusters, facilitating the investigation of the biosynthesis of the unique 6-5-6-6 ring skeleton in all fluostatins.
The Mycobiome: A Neglected Component in the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis
Authors: Enaud Raphaël , Vandenborght Louise-Eva , Coron Noémie , Bazin Thomas , Prevel Renaud , Schaeverbeke Thierry , Berger Patrick , Fayon Michael , Lamireau Thierry , Delhaes Laurence
Published: March 2018

In recent years, the gut microbiota has been considered as a full-fledged actor of the gut–brain axis, making it possible to take a new step in understanding the pathophysiology of both neurological and psychiatric diseases. However, most of the studies have been devoted to gut bacterial microbiota, forgetting the non-negligible fungal flora. In this review, we expose how the role of the fungal component in the microbiota-gut-brain axis is legitimate, through its interactions with both the host, especially with the immune system, and the gut bacteria. We also discuss published data that already attest to a role of the mycobiome in the microbiota-gut-brain axis, and the impact of fungi on clinical and therapeutic research.
Effects of Elevated Hydrostatic Pressure against Mesophilic Background Microflora and Habituated Salmonella Serovars in Orange Juice
Authors: Allison Abimbola , Daniels Edward , Chowdhury Shahid , Fouladkhah Aliyar
Published: March 2018

With recent improvements in the commercial feasibility of high pressure pasteurization units, the technology is gaining rapid acceptability across various sectors of food manufacturing, thus requiring extensive validation studies for effective adoption. Various times (1 min to 10 min) and intensity levels (0 MPa to 380 MPa) of elevated hydrostatic pressure were investigated for decontamination of mesophilic background microflora and inoculated Salmonella in orange juice. Results were analyzed by GLM procedure of SAS using Tukey- and Dunnett-adjusted ANOVA, additionally the Kmax and D-values were calculated using best-fitted (maximum R2) model obtained by GInaFit software. At 380 MPa, for treatments of 1 min to 10 min, D-value of 1.35, and inactivation Kmax of 3.34 were observed for Salmonella serovars. D-values were 5.90 and 14.68 for treatments of 241 MPa and 103 MPa, respectively. Up to 1.01 and >7.22 log CFU/mL reductions (p < 0.05) of habituated Salmonella serovars at planktonic stages were achieved using application of pressure at 380 MPa for 1 min and 10 min, respectively. Mesophilic background microflora counts were reduced (p < 0.05) by 1.68 to 5.29 log CFU/mL after treatment at 380 MPa for 1 min and 10 min, respectively. Treatments below two minutes were less efficacious (p ≥ 0.05) against the pathogen and background microflora, in vast majority of time and pressure combinations.
Intercalation and Exfoliation of Kaolinite with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate
Authors: Zuo Xiaochao , Wang Ding , Zhang Shilong , Liu Qinfu , Yang Huaming
Published: March 2018

Kaolinite (Kaol) was intercalated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and subsequently methanol (MeOH) to prepare intercalation compounds Kaol-DMSO and Kaol-MeOH. Kaol-MeOH was used as an intermediate to synthesize Kaol-sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) intercalation compound (Kaol-SDS) via displacement reaction. The ultrasonic exfoliation of Kaol-SDS produced a resultant Kaol-SDS-U. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermal analysis, scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analysis. The results revealed that the intercalation of sodium dodecyl sulfate into kaolinite layers caused an obvious increase of the basal spacing from 0.72–4.21 nm. The dehydroxylation temperature of Kaol-SDS was obviously lower than that of original kaolinite. During the intercalation process of sodium dodecyl sulfate, a few kaolinite layers were exfoliated and curled up from the edges of the kaolinite sheets. After sonication treatment, the kaolinite layers were further transformed into nanoscrolls, and the exfoliated resultant Kaol-SDS-U possessed a smaller particle size close to nanoscale.