bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro/Mesoporous Fe3O4/Fe-Phthalocyanine Microspheres and Effects of Their Surface Morphology on the Crystallization and Properties of Poly(Arylene Ether Nitrile) Composites
Authors: Li Kui , Ren Dengxun , Tang Xianzhong , Xu Mingzhen , Liu Xiaobo
Published: August 2018

The surface morphology of nanoparticles significantly affects the final properties and interfacial characteristics of their composites. Thus, investigations on the surface morphology of the nanoparticles is essential to fabricate improved nanoparticle-reinforced composites. Fe3O4/Fe-phthalocyanine (FePc) hybrid microspheres with micro/mesoporous structures were prepared via a solvothermal process and solvent etching method. The surface morphology and compositional distribution were respectively investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM) to rule out that FePc monomers have been blended with Fe3O4 to form Fe3O4/FePc hybrid microspheres without serious agglomeration. The surface roughness of Fe3O4/FePc microspheres was investigated by the scanning probe microscope (SPM), and confirmed by the adsorption and desorption isotherms of N2. The effects of the various surface morphologies on the crystallization behavior of crystallizable poly(arylene ether nitrile) (c-PEN) were first employed to confirm the surface characteristics of the resulted microspheres. Results indicated that the etched Fe3O4/FePc microspheres would improve the crystallization degree of c-PEN, due to their much more micro/mesoporous structures than that of original Fe3O4/FePc. Then, Fe3O4/FePc hybrid microspheres reinforced PEN composite films were prepared and their interfacial compatibility was monitored using an SEM. Excellent thermal stability and improved mechanical properties were obtained by combining the etched Fe3O4/FePc and PEN matrix. The excellent surface properties and micro/mesoporous structures make the novel Fe3O4/FePc an excellent candidate of organic/inorganic hybrid fillers and micro/mesoporous materials.
Synthesis of Gold Functionalised Nanoparticles with the Eranthis hyemalis Lectin and Preliminary Toxicological Studies on Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Djafari Jamila , McConnell Marie T. , Santos Hugo M. , Capelo José Luis , Bertolo Emilia , Harvey Simon C. , Lodeiro Carlos , Fernández-Lodeiro Javier
Published: August 2018

The lectin found in the tubers of the Winter Aconite (Eranthis hyemalis) plant (EHL) is a Type II Ribosome Inactivating Protein (RIP). Type II RIPs have shown anti-cancer properties and have great potential as therapeutic agents. Similarly, colloidal gold nanoparticles are successfully used in biomedical applications as they can be functionalised with ligands with high affinity and specificity for target cells to create therapeutic and imaging agents. Here we present the synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles conjugated with EHL and the results of a set of initial assays to establish whether the biological effect of EHL is altered by the conjugation. Gold nanoparticles functionalised with EHL (AuNPs@EHL) were successfully synthesised by bioconjugation with citrate gold nanoparticles (AuNPs@Citrate). The conjugates were analysed by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Zeta Potential analysis, and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). Results indicate that an optimal functionalisation was achieved with the addition of 100 µL of EHL (concentration 1090 ± 40 µg/mL) over 5 mL of AuNPs (concentration [Au0] = 0.8 mM). Biological assays on the effect of AuNPs@EHL were undertaken on Caenorhabditis elegans, a free-living nematode commonly used for toxicological studies, that has previously been shown to be strongly affected by EHL. Citrate gold nanoparticles did not have any obvious effect on the nematodes. For first larval stage (L1) nematodes, AuNPs@EHL showed a lower biological effect than EHL. For L4 stage, pre-adult nematodes, both EHL alone and AuNPs@EHL delayed the onset of reproduction and reduced fecundity. These assays indicate that EHL can be conjugated to gold nanoparticles and retain elements of biocidal activity.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy as a Diagnostic Tool in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Electrolysis
Authors: Siracusano Stefania , Trocino Stefano , Briguglio Nicola , Baglio Vincenzo , Aricò Antonino S.
Published: August 2018

Membrane–electrode assemblies (MEAs) designed for a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) water electrolyser based on a short-side chain (SSC) perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membrane, Aquivion®, and an advanced Ir-Ru oxide anode electro-catalyst, with various cathode and anode noble metal loadings, were investigated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), in combination with performance and durability tests, provided useful information to identify rate-determining steps and to quantify the impact of the different phenomena on the electrolysis efficiency and stability characteristics as a function of the MEA properties. This technique appears to be a useful diagnostic tool to individuate different phenomena and to quantify their effect on the performance and degradation of PEM electrolysis cells.
Bacteriostatic Effect of a Calcined Waste Clamshell-Activated Plastic Film for Food Packaging
Authors: Kao Chien-Ya , Huang Yen-Chieh , Chiu Sheng-Yi , Kuo Ko-Liang , Hwang Pai-An
Published: August 2018

The addition of calcined waste clamshells (CCS) into polyethylene (PE) plastic bags imparts antibacterial properties due to the presence of CaO. In this study, different proportions of calcined waste clamshells were added to PE to explore its bacteriostatic effects. The PE plastic bags with 9% and 11% of CCS exhibited antibacterial efficacy. Further, total aerobic viable count (TVC) values for raw fish fillet packaging in 9% and 11% CCS-PE plastic bags for five days were similar to the 0% CCS-PE plastic bag group after three days of incubation. In addition, the CCS-PE plastic bag demonstrated stability against solvents when examined using the metal migration test under heptane, ethanol, and acetic acid treatments. The results revealed that the CCS-PE bag retains its CaO bacteriostatic efficacy and that the addition of CCS powder to PE prolongs the shelf life of raw fish fillets, as well as mitigating safety concerns from metal leakage.
In-Process Measurement for the Process Control of the Real-Time Manufacturing of Tapered Roller Bearings
Authors: Brosed Francisco Javier , Zaera A. Victor , Padilla Emilio , Cebrián Fernando , Aguilar Juan José
Published: August 2018

Tapered roller bearings can accommodate high radial loads as well as high axial loads. The manufacturing process consists of machining processes for ring and component assembly. In this contribution, the parameters of influence on the measurement procedure were studied. These parameters of influence were classified as environmental, process, and machine parameters. The main objective of this work was to optimize the process using real-time measurements, which required the study of the influence of several parameters on the measurement uncertainty and how to correct their effects.
Effect of Healing Agents on Crack Healing of Asphalt and Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Pan Changluan , Tang Ping , Riara Martin , Mo Liantong , Li Mingliang , Guo Meng
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the effect of seven healing agents on crack healing ability of long-term aged asphalt and its mortar. Different healing agents including sunflower oil, aromatic oil, bitumen emulsion, and maltene-based emulsions were used. The crack healing of asphalt made use of two asphalt disk samples and healing was evaluated using direct tensile tests. For asphalt mortar, notched semi-circular samples were used. Test results indicated that the crack healing of asphalt and its mortar depended strongly on the type of healing agent. In general, asphalt healed faster than its mortar. Asphalt healing could be well improved by using oil agents, while asphalt mortar could be well healed with maltene-based emulsions. The crack healing of asphalt mortar developed rapidly followed by a steady state of increase. Initial crack healing using healing agents could be contributed by the diffusion and softening effects, which resulted in low strength recovery. Long term healing could lead to the bonding reconstitution in the cracks, which were decisive for the final strength gain. The promising healing agent should be able to achieve maximum strength recovery to resist cracking as well as a sufficient re-healing ability to deal with crack opening and closing.
Chitosan-Based Composite Materials for Prospective Hemostatic Applications
Authors: Hu Zhang , Zhang Dong-Ying , Lu Si-Tong , Li Pu-Wang , Li Si-Dong
Published: August 2018

Effective hemostasis is vital to reduce the pain and mortality of patients, and the research and development of hemostatic materials are prerequisite for effective hemostasis. Chitosan (CS), with good biodegradability, biocompatibility and non-toxicity, has been widely applied in bio-medicine, the chemical industry, the food industry and cosmetics. The excellent hemostatic properties of CS have been extensively studied. As a result, chitosan-based composite hemostatic materials have been emerging. In this review, the hemostatic mechanism of chitosan is briefly discussed, and then the progress of research on chitosan-based composite hemostatic materials with multiple forms such as films, sponges, hydrogels, particles and fibers are introduced. Finally, future perspectives of chitosan-based composite hemostatic materials are given. The objective of this review is to provide a reference for further research and development of effective hemostatic materials.
Contribution of Inhibitor of Differentiation and Estrogenic Endocrine Disruptors to Neurocognitive Disorders
Authors: Avecilla Andrea , Doke Mayur , Jovellanos Jeremy , Avecilla Vincent
Published: August 2018

The devastating growth in the worldwide frequency of neurocognitive disorders and its allied difficulties, such as decline in memory, spatial competency, and ability to focus, poses a significant psychological public health problem. Inhibitor of differentiation (ID) proteins are members of a family of helix-loop-helix (HLH) transcription factors. ID proteins have been demonstrated to be involved in neurodevelopmental and depressive diseases and, thus, may influence neurocognitive deficiencies due to environmental exposure. Previously, it has been demonstrated that environmental factors, such as estrogenic endocrine disruptors (EEDs), have played an essential role in the influence of various neurocognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Based on this increasing number of reports, we consider the impact of these environmental pollutants on ID proteins. Better understanding of how these ID proteins by which EED exposure can affect neurocognitive disorders in populations will prospectively deliver valuable information in the impediment and regulation of these diseases linked with environmental factor exposure.
Hollow Fiber Membranes of Blends of Polyethersulfone and Sulfonated Polymers
Authors: Noor Nazia , Koll Joachim , Scharnagl Nico , Abetz Clarissa , Abetz Volker
Published: August 2018

Hollow fiber membranes (HFM) are fabricated from blend solutions of a polyethersulfone (PESU) with a sulfonated PESU (sPESU) or a sulfonated polyphenylenesulfone (sPPSU). The influence of different additives in the dope solution and different bore fluids on the HFM are studied. The addition of poly(sodium 4-styrene sulfonate) (PSSNa)/ethylene glycol (EG) to the dope solution results in an increased water flux of the HFM compared to its counterparts without this additive system. The morphology of the hollow fibers is examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The inner surface of the hollow fibers is studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and it is found that water permeation through the hollow fiber membranes is facilitated due to the change in morphology upon the addition of the PSSNa/EG additive system, but not by the presence of hydrophilic sulfonic acid groups on the membrane surface.
Deformation Behavior of a β-Solidifying TiAl Alloy within β Phase Field and Its Effect on the β→α Transformation
Authors: Chen Yi , Cheng Liang , Yang Guang , Lu Yalin , Han Fengbo
Published: August 2018

In this study, the deformation behavior of a Ti-40Al-10V (at.%) alloy within β single phase field was examined by means of isothermal compression at 1300 °C under strain rates of 2 s−1, 0.2 s−1, and 0.02 s−1, as well as its effect on the subsequent β→α transformation. The results showed that the alloy behaved steady-state flow with dislocation creep as the predominant rate-controlling process. Dynamic recrystallization (DRX) evidently occurred during deformation, and its volume fraction was dramatically increased so that at the lowest strain rate (0.02 s−1), a full-DRX β structure was obtained. The preferentially dynamic migration of grain boundaries with <100> orientation was demonstrated to be the major DRX mechanism. The texture was characterized by a <100> + <111> double-fiber at 2 s−1, but gradually transformed into a simple rotated cube orientationunder 0.02 s−1, accompanied by a decreasing texture intensity. During the subsequent β→α transformation, two types of α morphology wereproduced with evident variant selection, namely, the Widmannstatten colony and martensitic laths. Texture simulation revealed that the α texture was solely determined by parent β texture, despite of the variant selections.
Kurchatovite and Clinokurchatovite, Ideally CaMgB2O5: An Example of Modular Polymorphism
Authors: Pankova Yulia A. , Krivovichev Sergey V. , Pekov Igor V. , Grew Edward S. , Yapaskurt Vasiliy O.
Published: August 2018

Kurchatovite and clinokurchatovite, both of ideal composition CaMgB2O5, from the type localities (Solongo, Buryatia, Russia, and Sayak-IV, Kazakhstan, respectively) have been studied using electron microprobe and single-crystal X-ray diffraction methods. The empirical formulae of the samples are Ca1.01Mg0.87Mn0.11Fe2+0.02B1.99O5 and Ca0.94Mg0.91Fe2+0.10Mn0.04B2.01O5 for kurchatovite and clinokurchatovite, respectively. The crystal structures of the two minerals are similar and based upon two-dimensional blocks arranged parallel to the c axis in kurchatovite and parallel to the a axis in clinokurchatovite. The blocks are built up from diborate B2O5 groups, and Ca2+ and Mg2+ cations in seven- and six-fold coordination, respectively. Detailed analysis of geometrical parameters of the adjacent blocks reveals that symmetrically different diborate groups have different degrees of conformation in terms of the δ angles between the planes of two BO3 triangles sharing a common O atom, featuring two discrete sets of the δ values of ca. 55° (B’ blocks) and 34° (B” blocks). The stacking of the blocks in clinokurchatovite can be presented as …(+B’)(+B”)(+B’)(+B”)… or [(+B’)(+B”)], whereas in kurchatovite it is more complex and corresponds to the sequence …(+B’)(+B”)(+B’)(−B’)(−B”)(−B’)(+B’)(+B”)(+B’)(−B’)(−B”)(−B’)… or [(+B’)(+B”)(+B’)(−B’)(−B”)(−B’)]. The B’:B” ratios for clinokurchatovite and kurchatovite are 1:1 and 2:1, respectively. According to this description, the two minerals cannot be considered as polytypes and their mutual relationship corresponds to the term modular polymorphs. From the viewpoint of information-based measures of structural complexity, clinokurchatovite (IG = 4.170 bits/atom and IG,total = 300.235 bits/cell) is structurally simpler than kurchatovite (IG = 4.755 bits/atom and IG,total = 1027.056 bits/cell). The high structural complexity of kurchatovite can be inferred from the modular character of its structure. The analysis of structural combinatorics in terms of the modular approach allows to construct the whole family of theoretically possible “kurchatovite”-type structures that bear the same structural features common for kurchatovite and clinokurchatovite. However, the crystal structures of the latter minerals are the simplest and are the only ones that have been observed in nature. The absence of other possible structures is remarkable and can be explained by either the maximum-entropy of the least-action fundamental principles.
Water Structure, Dynamics and Ion Adsorption at the Aqueous {010} Brushite Surface
Authors: Garcia Natalya A. , Raiteri Paolo , Vlieg Elias , Gale Julian D.
Published: August 2018

Understanding the growth processes of calcium phosphate minerals in aqueous environments has implications for both health and geology. Brushite, in particular, is a component of certain kidney stones and is used as a bone implant coating. Understanding the water–brushite interface at the molecular scale will help inform the control of its growth. Liquid-ordering and the rates of water exchange at the brushite–solution interface have been examined through the use of molecular dynamics simulation and the results compared to surface X-ray diffraction data. This comparison highlights discrepancies between the two sets of results, regardless of whether force field or first principles methods are used in the simulations, or the extent of water coverage. In order to probe other possible reasons for this difference, the free energies for the adsorption of several ions on brushite were computed. Given the exothermic nature found in some cases, it is possible that the discrepancy in the surface electron density may be caused by adsorption of excess ions.
Use of Cyclodextrins in Anticancer Photodynamic Therapy Treatment
Authors: Ben Mihoub Amina , Larue Ludivine , Moussaron Albert , Youssef Zahraa , Colombeau Ludovic , Baros Francis , Frochot Céline , Vanderesse Régis , Acherar Samir
Published: August 2018

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is mainly used to destroy cancerous cells; it combines the action of three components: a photoactivatable molecule or photosensitizer (PS), the light of an appropriate wavelength, and naturally occurring molecular oxygen. After light excitation of the PS, the excited PS then reacts with molecular oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to cellular damage. One of the drawbacks of PSs is their lack of solubility in water and body tissue fluids, thereby causing low bioavailability, drug-delivery efficiency, therapeutic efficacy, and ROS production. To improve the water-solubility and/or drug delivery of PSs, using cyclodextrins (CDs) is an interesting strategy. This review describes the in vitro or/and in vivo use of natural and derived CDs to improve antitumoral PDT efficiency in aqueous media. To achieve these goals, three types of binding modes of PSs with CDs are developed: non-covalent CD–PS inclusion complexes, covalent CD–PS conjugates, and CD–PS nanoassemblies. This review is divided into three parts: (1) non-covalent CD-PS inclusion complexes, covalent CD–PS conjugates, and CD–PS nanoassemblies, (2) incorporating CD–PS systems into hybrid nanoparticles (NPs) using up-converting or other types of NPs, and (3) CDs with fullerenes as PSs.
Lipid Droplets in Cancer: Guardians of Fat in a Stressful World
Authors: Petan Toni , Jarc Eva , Jusović Maida
Published: August 2018

Cancer cells possess remarkable abilities to adapt to adverse environmental conditions. Their survival during severe nutrient and oxidative stress depends on their capacity to acquire extracellular lipids and the plasticity of their mechanisms for intracellular lipid synthesis, mobilisation, and recycling. Lipid droplets, cytosolic fat storage organelles present in most cells from yeast to men, are emerging as major regulators of lipid metabolism, trafficking, and signalling in various cells and tissues exposed to stress. Their biogenesis is induced by nutrient and oxidative stress and they accumulate in various cancers. Lipid droplets act as switches that coordinate lipid trafficking and consumption for different purposes in the cell, such as energy production, protection against oxidative stress or membrane biogenesis during rapid cell growth. They sequester toxic lipids, such as fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramides, thereby preventing lipotoxic cell damage and engage in a complex relationship with autophagy. Here, we focus on the emerging mechanisms of stress-induced lipid droplet biogenesis; their roles during nutrient, lipotoxic, and oxidative stress; and the relationship between lipid droplets and autophagy. The recently discovered principles of lipid droplet biology can improve our understanding of the mechanisms that govern cancer cell adaptability and resilience to stress.
Surface Response Methodology-Based Mixture Design to Study the Influence of Polyol Blend Composition on Polyurethanes’ Properties
Authors: Arévalo-Alquichire Said , Morales-Gonzalez Maria , Diaz Luis E. , Valero Manuel F.
Published: August 2018

Polyurethanes are materials with a strong structure-property relationship. The goal of this research was to study the effect of a polyol blend composition of polyurethanes on its properties using a mixture design and setting mathematic models for each property. Water absorption, hydrolytic degradation, contact angle, tensile strength hardness and modulus were studied. Additionally, thermal stability was studied by thermogravimetric analysis. Area under the curve was used to evaluate the effect of polyol blend composition on thermal stability and kinetics of water absorption and hydrolytic degradation. Least squares were used to calculate the regression coefficients. Models for the properties were significant, and lack of fit was not (p < 0.05). Fit statistics suggest both good fitting and prediction. Water absorption, hydrolytic degradation and contact angle were mediated by the hydrophilic nature of the polyols. Tensile strength, modulus and hardness could be regulated by the PE content and the characteristics of polyols. Regression of DTG curves from thermal analysis showed improvement of thermal stability with the increase of PCL and PE. An ANOVA test of the model terms demonstrated that three component influences on bulk properties like water absorption, hydrolytic degradation, hardness, tensile strength and modulus. The PEG*PCL interaction influences on the contact angle, which is a surface property. Mixture design application allowed for an understanding of the structure-property relationship through mathematic models.
Optimisation of Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF) for Biobutanol Production Using Pretreated Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch
Authors: Md Razali Nur Atheera Aiza , Ibrahim Mohamad Faizal , Kamal Bahrin Ezyana , Abd-Aziz Suraini
Published: August 2018

This study was conducted in order to optimise simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) for biobutanol production from a pretreated oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) by Clostridium acetobutylicum ATCC 824. Temperature, initial pH, cellulase loading and substrate concentration were screened using one factor at a time (OFAT) and further statistically optimised by central composite design (CCD) using the response surface methodology (RSM) approach. Approximately 2.47 g/L of biobutanol concentration and 0.10 g/g of biobutanol yield were obtained after being screened through OFAT with 29.55% increment (1.42 fold). The optimised conditions for SSF after CCD were: temperature of 35 °C, initial pH of 5.5, cellulase loading of 15 FPU/g-substrate and substrate concentration of 5% (w/v). This optimisation study resulted in 55.95% increment (2.14 fold) of biobutanol concentration equivalent to 3.97 g/L and biobutanol yield of 0.16 g/g. The model and optimisation design obtained from this study are important for further improvement of biobutanol production, especially in consolidated bioprocessing technology.
Dietary Diversity in Cambodian Garment Workers: The Role of Free Lunch Provision
Authors: Makurat Jan , Kretz Eleonore C. , Wieringa Frank T. , Chamnan Chhoun , Krawinkel Michael B.
Published: August 2018

The objective of this paper is to compare food consumption by Cambodian garment workers with and without access to a free model lunch provision through a factory-based canteen. Data from an exploratory randomised controlled trial were analysed. In total, 223 female Cambodian garment workers were allocated to an intervention arm (six-month lunch provision) or a control arm. Dietary intake on workdays was assessed by qualitative 24-h recalls at baseline and twice at follow-ups during the period of lunch provision using the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) guideline on assessing women’s dietary diversity. In total, 158 participants provided complete data on the dietary intake over workdays at all interviews. Lunch provision resulted in a more frequent consumption of dark green leafy vegetables (DGLV), vitamin A-rich fruits, other fruits, and oils and fats during lunch breaks. In contrast, flesh meats, legumes, nuts and seeds, as well as sweets, were eaten at a lower frequency. Except for a higher consumption rate of vitamin A-rich fruits and a lower intake frequency of sweets, lunch provision had a less clear impact on total 24-h intake from different food groups and was not associated with a higher women’s dietary diversity score (WDDS). A more gap-oriented design of the lunch sets taking into account underutilised foods and the nutritional status of the workers is recommended.
25-Hydroxyvitamin D Status and Its Association with Sleep Duration in Chinese Schoolchildren
Authors: Gong Qing-Hai , Li Si-Xuan , Li Hui , Chen Qi , Li Xiao-Yong , Xu Guo-Zhang
Published: August 2018

Objective: To examine the association between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and sleep duration among Chinese adolescents. Subjects and methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Chinese adolescents in 2017. Data on a total of 800 adolescents aged 8–14 years was used for this study. Anthropometric measurements such as height and weight were measured by trained research staff. Serum 25(OH)D and lipids were measured in the laboratory. Sleep habits and other health-related behaviors were tested by questionnaire. Results: 25(OH)D levels were significantly positively correlated with sleep duration (r = 0.11, p < 0.05). In multivariate logistic regression analyses, insufficiency/deficiency of vitamin D (25(OH)D ≤ 20 ng/mL) was significantly associated with increased probability of short sleep (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.14–2.43). Conclusions: Low 25(OH)D levels were independently associated with the risk of insufficient sleep in Chinese adolescents.
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Volatile Organic Extractable to Investigate LLDPE and LDPE Polymers on Final Packaging for Semisolid Formulation
Authors: Cozzi Arianna Cecilia , Briasco Benedetta , Salvarani Enrico , Mannucci Barbara , Fangarezzi Filippo , Perugini Paola
Published: August 2018

Plastic material is used for a wide variety of commercial packaging due to being inexpensive, lightweight, and due to its resistance. In pharmaceutics, container-content compatibility studies are required for product authorization. Many guidelines and publications are available; however, the information is often only related to the raw materials used to produce packaging. During the manufacturing process, substances can be added to improve the product characteristics and performance, resulting in a processed material that is considerably different from the unprocessed material. In this study, the mechanical properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) specimens fabricated according to standard ISO 527 and specimens fabricated with the same materials, but obtained from final packaging, were evaluated. Furthermore, we examined the interaction between a semisolid formulation and LLDPE and LDPE as a final packaging, by subjecting two samples to accelerated degradation testing. Then, mechanical properties and volatile organic extractable were evaluated. Simulated solar radiation did not induce changes in the packaging mechanical properties and no extracts were detectable. The thermal shock strongly influenced the mechanical behavior, and interactions between packaging contents were identified. The present work underlines the difference between analyzing the standard ISO specimens versus samples obtained from final packaging in order to evaluate the packaging under real use conditions. An evaluation on the final packaging, instead on standard specimens, can provide information about the plastic material after the manufacturing process and the interaction between packaging and content.
Tailoring Formulations for Intranasal Nose-to-Brain Delivery: A Review on Architecture, Physico-Chemical Characteristics and Mucociliary Clearance of the Nasal Olfactory Mucosa
Authors: Gänger Stella , Schindowski Katharina
Published: August 2018

The blood-brain barrier and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier are major obstacles in central nervous system (CNS) drug delivery, since they block most molecules from entering the brain. Alternative drug delivery routes like intraparenchymal or intrathecal are invasive methods with a remaining risk of infections. In contrast, nose-to-brain delivery is a minimally invasive drug administration pathway, which bypasses the blood-brain barrier as the drug is directed from the nasal cavity to the brain. In particular, the skull base located at the roof of the nasal cavity is in close vicinity to the CNS. This area is covered with olfactory mucosa. To design and tailor suitable formulations for nose-to-brain drug delivery, the architecture, structure and physico-chemical characteristics of the mucosa are important criteria. Hence, here we review the state-of-the-art knowledge about the characteristics of the nasal and, in particular, the olfactory mucosa needed for a rational design of intranasal formulations and dosage forms. Also, the information is suitable for the development of systemic or local intranasal drug delivery as well as for intranasal vaccinations.
Qualitative Methods in Pharmacy Research
Authors: Gallego Gisselle , Nørgaard Lotte Stig
Published: August 2018

Over the past years, there has been an increase in the use of qualitative methods in health services research, including pharmacy research. Pharmacy practice researchers can use these methods to understand, explain, discover, and explore both patients’ and health care practitioners’ thoughts, perceptions, and feelings. Qualitative research can also be used for the “democratisation” of research methods through research that is inclusive, collaborative, and involves partnerships and co-production. There is a wide spectrum of qualitative research methods that might be used in pharmacy research. This Special Issue showcases five articles in different settings and countries with diverse participants that seek to develop, explore, describe, and identify. These articles provide further insights into important pharmacy questions with the ultimate goal of helping improve health and well-being.
A Villafranchian Hipparion-Bearing Mammal Fauna from Sésklo (E. Thessaly, Greece): Implications for the Question of Hipparion–Equus Sympatry in Europe
Authors: Athanassiou Athanassios
Published: August 2018

Recently collected fossil material in the Villafranchian locality of Sésklo, as well as a re-evaluation of a pre-existing, partly-published museum collection, allow the recognition of a lower faunal level in the locality, older than the main Equus-dominated fossil assemblage, dated in the Early Pleistocene (MNQ17). The lower level yielded, instead, an advanced hipparion, referred to the species Plesiohipparion cf. shanxiense, and a small number of associated taxa: an ostrich (Struthio cf. chersonensis), an unidentified proboscidean, the pig Sus arvernensis, two antelopes (Gazella cf. bouvrainae and Gazellospira torticornis), a large bovid (Bovini indet.), and a rhinoceros (Stephanorhinus sp.). The lower-level fauna is dated in the latest Pliocene (MN16) and indicates a rather open and dry palaeoenvironment. The faunal sequence in Sésklo shows that the hipparion did not co-occur with the stenonid horse, at least in this region. Previous reports on sympatry of these taxa may result from faunal mixing, requiring re-examination of the available samples.
Design of a Lockable Spherical Joint for a Reconfigurable 3-URU Parallel Platform
Authors: Palpacelli Matteo , Carbonari Luca , Palmieri Giacomo , Callegari Massimo
Published: August 2018

This article deals with the functional and preliminary design of a reconfigurable joint for robotic applications. Such mechanism is a key element for a class of lower mobility parallel manipulators, allowing a local reconfiguration of the kinematic chain that enables a change in platform’s mobility. The mechanism can be integrated in the kinematic structure of a 3-URU manipulator, which shall accordingly gain the ability to change mobility from pure translation to pure rotation. As a matter of fact, special kinematics conditions must be met for the accomplishment of this task. Such peculiar requirements are described and properly exploited for the design of an effective reconfigurable mechanism. A detailed description of the joint operational principle is provided, also showing how to design it when is physically located at the fixed base of the manipulator.
Spatio-Temporal Super-Resolution Land Cover Mapping Based on Fuzzy C-Means Clustering
Authors: Yang Xiaohong , Xie Zhong , Ling Feng , Li Xiaodong , Zhang Yihang , Zhong Ming
Published: August 2018

Super-resolution land cover mapping (SRM) is a method that aims to generate land cover maps with fine spatial resolutions from the original coarse spatial resolution remotely sensed image. The accuracy of the resultant land cover map produced by existing SRM methods is often limited by the errors of fraction images and the uncertainty of spatial pattern models. To address these limitations in this study, we proposed a fuzzy c-means clustering (FCM)-based spatio-temporal SRM (FCM_STSRM) model that combines the spectral, spatial, and temporal information into a single objective function. The spectral term is constructed with the FCM criterion, the spatial term is constructed with the maximal spatial dependence principle, and the temporal term is characterized by the land cover transition probabilities in the bitemporal land cover maps. The performance of the proposed FCM_STSRM method is assessed using data simulated from the National Land Cover Database dataset and real Landsat images. Results of the two experiments show that the proposed FCM_STSRM method can decrease the influence of fraction errors by directly using the original images as the input and the spatial pattern uncertainty by inheriting land cover information from the existing fine resolution land cover map. Compared with the hard classification and FCM_SRM method applied to mono-temporal images, the proposed FCM_STSRM method produced fine resolution land cover maps with high accuracy, thus showing the efficiency and potential of the novel approach for producing fine spatial resolution maps from coarse resolution remotely sensed images.
Detailed Land Cover Mapping from Multitemporal Landsat-8 Data of Different Cloud Cover
Authors: Karakizi Christina , Karantzalos Konstantinos , Vakalopoulou Maria , Antoniou Georgia
Published: August 2018

Detailed, accurate and frequent land cover mapping is a prerequisite for several important geospatial applications and the fulfilment of current sustainable development goals. This paper introduces a methodology for the classification of annual high-resolution satellite data into several detailed land cover classes. In particular, a nomenclature with 27 different classes was introduced based on CORINE Land Cover (CLC) Level-3 categories and further analysing various crop types. Without employing cloud masks and/or interpolation procedures, we formed experimental datasets of Landsat-8 (L8) images with gradually increased cloud cover in order to assess the influence of cloud presence on the reference data and the resulting classification accuracy. The performance of shallow kernel-based and deep patch-based machine learning classification frameworks was evaluated. Quantitatively, the resulting overall accuracy rates differed within a range of less than 3%; however, maps produced based on Support Vector Machines (SVM) were more accurate across class boundaries and the respective framework was less computationally expensive compared to the applied patch-based deep Convolutional Neural Network (CNN). Further experimental results and analysis indicated that employing all multitemporal images with up to 30% cloud cover delivered relatively higher overall accuracy rates as well as the highest per-class accuracy rates. Moreover, by selecting 70% of the top-ranked features after applying a feature selection strategy, slightly higher accuracy rates were achieved. A detailed discussion of the quantitative and qualitative evaluation outcomes further elaborates on the performance of all considered classes and highlights different aspects of their spectral behaviour and separability.
UAV Multispectral Imagery Can Complement Satellite Data for Monitoring Forest Health
Authors: Dash Jonathan P. , Pearse Grant D. , Watt Michael S.
Published: August 2018

The development of methods that can accurately detect physiological stress in forest trees caused by biotic or abiotic factors is vital for ensuring productive forest systems that can meet the demands of the Earth’s population. The emergence of new sensors and platforms presents opportunities to augment traditional practices by combining remotely-sensed data products to provide enhanced information on forest condition. We tested the sensitivity of multispectral imagery collected from time-series unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and satellite imagery to detect herbicide-induced stress in a carefully controlled experiment carried out in a mature Pinus radiata D. Don plantation. The results revealed that both data sources were sensitive to physiological stress in the study trees. The UAV data were more sensitive to changes at a finer spatial resolution and could detect stress down to the level of individual trees. The satellite data tested could only detect physiological stress in clusters of four or more trees. Resampling the UAV imagery to the same spatial resolution as the satellite imagery revealed that the differences in sensitivity were not solely the result of spatial resolution. Instead, vegetation indices suited to the sensor characteristics of each platform were required to optimise the detection of physiological stress from each data source. Our results define both the spatial detection threshold and the optimum vegetation indices required to implement monitoring of this forest type. A comparison between time-series datasets of different spectral indices showed that the two sensors are compatible and can be used to deliver an enhanced method for monitoring physiological stress in forest trees at various scales. We found that the higher resolution UAV imagery was more sensitive to fine-scale instances of herbicide induced physiological stress than the RapidEye imagery. Although less sensitive to smaller phenomena the satellite imagery was found to be very useful for observing trends in physiological stress over larger areas.
Deep Recurrent Neural Network for Agricultural Classification using multitemporal SAR Sentinel-1 for Camargue, France
Authors: Ndikumana Emile , Ho Tong Minh Dinh , Baghdadi Nicolas , Courault Dominique , Hossard Laure
Published: August 2018

The development and improvement of methods to map agricultural land cover are currently major challenges, especially for radar images. This is due to the speckle noise nature of radar, leading to a less intensive use of radar rather than optical images. The European Space Agency Sentinel-1 constellation, which recently became operational, is a satellite system providing global coverage of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with a 6-days revisit period at a high spatial resolution of about 20 m. These data are valuable, as they provide spatial information on agricultural crops. The aim of this paper is to provide a better understanding of the capabilities of Sentinel-1 radar images for agricultural land cover mapping through the use of deep learning techniques. The analysis is carried out on multitemporal Sentinel-1 data over an area in Camargue, France. The data set was processed in order to produce an intensity radar data stack from May 2017 to September 2017. We improved this radar time series dataset by exploiting temporal filtering to reduce noise, while retaining as much as possible the fine structures present in the images. We revealed that even with classical machine learning approaches (K nearest neighbors, random forest, and support vector machines), good performance classification could be achieved with F-measure/Accuracy greater than 86% and Kappa coefficient better than 0.82. We found that the results of the two deep recurrent neural network (RNN)-based classifiers clearly outperformed the classical approaches. Finally, our analyses of the Camargue area results show that the same performance was obtained with two different RNN-based classifiers on the Rice class, which is the most dominant crop of this region, with a F-measure metric of 96%. These results thus highlight that in the near future these RNN-based techniques will play an important role in the analysis of remote sensing time series.
Regional Scale Mapping of Grassland Mowing Frequency with Sentinel-2 Time Series
Authors: Kolecka Natalia , Ginzler Christian , Pazur Robert , Price Bronwyn , Verburg Peter H.
Published: August 2018

Grassland use intensity is a topic of growing interest worldwide, as grasslands are integral in supporting biodiversity, food production, and regulating of the global carbon cycle. Data available for characterizing grasslands management are largely descriptive and collected from laborious field campaigns or questionnaires. The recent launch of the Sentinel-2 earth monitoring constellation provides new possibilities for high temporal and spatial resolution remote sensing data covering large areas. This study aims to evaluate the potential of a time series of Sentinel-2 data for mapping of mowing frequency in the region of Canton Aargau, Switzerland. We tested two cloud masking processes and three spatial mapping units (pixels, parcel polygons and shrunken parcel polygons), and investigated how missing data influence the ability to accurately detect and map grassland management activity. We found that more than 40% of the study area was mown before 15 June, while the remaining part was either mown later, or was not mown at all. The highest accuracy for detection of mowing events was achieved using additional clouds masking and size reduction of parcels, which allowed correct detection of 77% of mowing events. Additionally, we found that using only standard cloud masking leads to significant overestimation of mowing events, and that the detection based on sparse time series does not fully correspond to key events in the grass growth season.
A Simple and Effective Colorimetric Assay for Glucose Based on MnO2 Nanosheets
Authors: Huang Zhengjun , Zheng Linlin , Feng Feng , Chen Yuyuan , Wang Zhenzhen , Lin Zhen , Lin Xinhua , Weng Shaohuang
Published: August 2018

Simple and effective methods for the detection of the level of blood glucose are closely linked to the monitoring of people’s health. In the study, MnO2 nanosheets with absorption range of 300 nm~500 nm and obvious yellow color were easily prepared and applied to detect glucose through their absorbance and color. The proposed method is based on the fact that a specific concentration of glucose can be quantitatively transformed into hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) under the catalytic effect of glucose oxidase. Based on the redox reaction of MnO2 with H2O2, yellow MnO2 can be converted into colorless Mn2+ to monitor the concentration of glucose. Under optimal conditions, a simple and effective visual assay for the sensitive and reliable detection of glucose was developed. The linear range was estimated to the range from 0 μM to 100 μM, with a detection limit of 12.8 μM. Furthermore, the proposed colorimetric assay based on MnO2 nanosheets can effectively detect blood glucose of clinical serum samples with accuracy and convenience.
Pendulum-Type Hetero-Core Fiber Optic Accelerometer for Low-Frequency Vibration Monitoring
Authors: Yamazaki Hiroshi , Kurose Ichiro , Nishiyama Michiko , Watanabe Kazuhiro
Published: August 2018

In this paper, a novel pendulum-type accelerometer based on hetero-core fiber optics has been proposed for structural health monitoring targeting large-scale civil infrastructures. Vibration measurement is a non-destructive method for diagnosing the failure of structures by assessing natural frequencies and other vibration patterns. The hetero-core fiber optic sensor utilized in the proposed accelerometer can serve as a displacement sensor with robustness to temperature changes, in addition to immunity to electromagnetic interference and chemical corrosions. Thus, the hetero-core sensor inside the accelerometer measures applied acceleration by detecting the rotation of an internal pendulum. A series of experiments showed that the hetero-core fiber sensor linearly responded to the rotation angle of the pendulum ranging within (−6°, 4°), and furthermore the proposed accelerometer could reproduce the waveform of input vibration in a frequency band of several Hz order.
An Electrochemiluminescence Sensor Based on Nafion/Magnetic Fe3O4 Nanocrystals Modified Electrode for the Determination of Bisphenol A in Environmental Water Samples
Authors: Chai Jiye , Yu Xinru , Zhao Jian , Sun Aili , Shi Xizhi , Li Dexiang
Published: August 2018

The well-dispersive and superparamagnetic Fe3O4-nanocrystals (Fe3O4-NCs) which could significantly enhance the anodic electrochemiluminescence (ECL) behavior of luminol, were synthesized in this study. Compared to ZnS, ZnSe, CdS and CdTe nanoparticles, the strongest anodic ECL signals were obtained at +1.6 V on the Fe3O4-NCs coated glassy carbon electrode. The ECL spectra revealed that the strong ECL resonance energy transfer occurred between luminol and Fe3O4-NCs. Furthermore, under the optimized ECL experimental conditions, such as the amount of Fe3O4-NCs, the concentration of luminol and the pH of supporting electrolyte, BPA exhibited a stronger distinct ECL quenching effect than its structural analogs and a highly selective and sensitive ECL sensor for the determination of bisphenol A (BPA) was developed based on the Fe3O4-NCs. A good linear relationship was found between the ECL intensity and the increased BPA concentration within 0.01–5.0 mg/L, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9972. The detection limit was 0.66 × 10−3 mg/L. Good recoveries between 96.0% and 105.0% with a relative standard deviation of less than 4.8% were obtained in real water samples. The proposed ECL sensor can be successfully employed to BPA detection in environmental aqueous samples.
High Strain Survivability of Piezoceramics by Optimal Bonding Adhesive Design
Authors: Sun Hu , Wang Yishou , Qing Xinlin , Wu Zhanjun
Published: August 2018

As one of the most common transducers used in structural health monitoring (SHM), piezoceramic sensors can play an important role in both damage detection and impact monitoring. However, the low tensile strain survivability of piezoceramics resulting from the material nature significantly limits their application on SHM in the aerospace industry. This paper proposes a novel approach to greatly improve the strain survivability of piezoceramics by optimal design of the adhesive used to bond them to the host structure. Theoretical model for determining the strain transfer coefficient through bonded adhesive from the host structure to piezoceramic is first established. Finite element analysis is then utilized to study the parameters of adhesive, including thickness and shear modulus. Experiments are finally conducted to validate the proposed method, and results show the piezoceramic sensors still work well when they are bonded on the host structures with tensile strain up to 4000 με by using the optimal adhesive.