bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioactive Composition, Antioxidant Activity, and Anticancer Potential of Freeze-Dried Extracts from Defatted Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng) Seeds
Authors: Le Anh V. , Huynh Tien T. , Parks Sophie E. , Nguyen Minh H. , Roach Paul D.
Published: September 2018

Background: Gac (Momordica cochinchinensis Spreng) seeds have long been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for numerous conditions due to a range of bioactive compounds. This study investigated the solvent extraction of compounds that could be responsible for antioxidant activity and anticancer potential. Methods: Defatted Gac seed kernel powder was extracted with different solvents: 100% water, 50% methanol:water, 70% ethanol:water, water saturated butanol, 100% methanol, and 100% ethanol. Trypsin inhibitors, saponins, phenolics, and antioxidant activity using the 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays; and anticancer potential against two melanoma cancer cell lines (MM418C1 and D24) were analysed to determine the best extraction solvents. Results: Water was best for extracting trypsin inhibitors (581.4 ± 18.5 mg trypsin/mg) and reducing the viability of MM418C1 and D24 melanoma cells (75.5 ± 1.3 and 66.9 ± 2.2%, respectively); the anticancer potential against the MM418C1 cells was highly correlated with trypsin inhibitors (r = 0.92, p < 0.05), but there was no correlation between anticancer potential and antioxidant activity. The water saturated butanol had the highest saponins (71.8 ± 4.31 mg aescin equivalents/g), phenolic compounds (20.4 ± 0.86 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), and antioxidant activity, but these measures were not related to anticancer potential. Conclusions: Water yielded a Gac seed extract, rich in trypsin inhibitors, which had high anticancer potential against two melanoma cell lines.
Short Review on Porous Metal Membranes—Fabrication, Commercial Products, and Applications
Authors: Zhu Bo , Duke Mikel , Dumée Ludovic F. , Merenda Andrea , Des Ligneris Elise , Kong Lingxue , Hodgson Peter D. , Gray Stephen
Published: September 2018

Porous metal membranes have recently received increasing attention, and significant progress has been made in their preparation and characterisation. This progress has stimulated research in their applications in a number of key industries including wastewater treatment, dairy processing, wineries, and biofuel purification. This review examines recent significant progress in porous metal membranes including novel fabrication concepts and applications that have been reported in open literature or obtained in our laboratories. The advantages and disadvantages of the different membrane fabrication methods were presented in light of improving the properties of current membrane materials for targeted applications. Sintering of particles is one of the main approaches that has been used for the fabrication of commercial porous metal membranes, and it has great advantages for the fabrication of hollow fibre metal membranes. However, sintering processes usually result in large pores (e.g., >1 µm). So far, porous metal membranes have been mainly used for the filtration of liquids to remove the solid particles. For porous metal membranes to be more widely used across a number of separation applications, particularly for water applications, further work needs to focus on the development of smaller pore (e.g., sub-micron) metal membranes and the significant reduction of capital and maintenance costs.
A Comprehensive Study on the Deformation Behavior of Hadfield Steel Sheets Subjected to the Drop Weight Test: Experimental Study and Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Enginsoy Halil Murat , Bayraktar Emin , Kurşun Ali
Published: September 2018

This work presents the results of experimental and finite element modeling studies of impact behavior on the response of a high content of manganese steel blanks with a 1.2 mm thickness of sheets, known also commercially as Hadfield steel (an austenitic structure with a basic composition containing C 1.2% and Mn 12%). The study was done with a standard drop weight test device under certain variable parameters (velocity: 3 m/s and 5 m/s and temperature: room temperature, 70 °C, 100 °C, and 140 °C). In this study, the evolution of force and energy values were analyzed depending on the time in the case of impact. Special care was given to the evolution of peak stress counters of finite element simulation for different temperatures. The results of the force-time, energy-time, and force-displacement curves under different temperatures and impact velocities are compared experimentally and numerically. Then the discussion are built on the effect of the operational parameters on the damage behavior of this steel. Both of these works (experimental and finite element modeling) were compared and highly satisfying results were obtained.
Metal Removal from Acid Waters by an Endemic Microalga from the Atacama Desert for Water Recovery
Authors: Martínez Marcela , Leyton Yanett , Cisternas Luis , Riquelme Carlos
Published: September 2018

The environmental problems generated by waste from the mining industry in the mineral extraction for business purposes are known worldwide. The aim of this work is to evaluate the microalga Muriellopsis sp. as a potential remover of metallic ions such as copper (Cu2+), zinc (Zn2+) and iron (Fe2+), pollutants of acid mine drainage (AMD) type waters. For this, the removal of these ions was verified in artificial acid waters with high concentrations of the ions under examination. Furthermore, the removal was evaluated in waters obtained from areas contaminated by mining waste. The results showed that Muriellopsis sp. removed metals in waters with high concentrations after 4–12 h and showed tolerance to pH between 3 and 5. These results allow proposing this species as a potential bioremediator for areas contaminated by mining activity. In this work, some potential alternatives for application in damaged areas are proposed as a decontamination plan and future prevention.
Chemical Stability and Leaching Behavior of One-Part Geopolymer from Soil and Coal Fly Ash Mixtures
Authors: Tigue April Anne S. , Malenab Roy Alvin J. , Dungca Jonathan R. , Yu Derrick Ethelbhert C. , Promentilla Michael Angelo B.
Published: September 2018

Aluminosilicate minerals have become an important resource for an emerging sustainable material for construction known as geopolymer. Geopolymer, an alkali-activated material, is becoming an attractive alternative to Portland cement because of its lower carbon footprint and embodied energy. However, the synthesis process requires typically a two-part system for alkali activation wherein the solid geopolymer precursor is mixed with aqueous alkali solutions. These alkali activators are corrosive and may be difficult to handle in the field-scale application. In this study, a one-part geopolymer in which coal fly ash was mixed with solid alkali activators such as sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate to form a powdery cementitious binder was developed. This binder mixed with soil only requires water to form the soil-fly ash (SO-CFA) geopolymer cement, which can be used as stabilized soil for backfill/foundation. This geopolymer product was then evaluated for chemical stability by immersing the material with 5% by weight of sulfuric acid solution for 28 days. Indication suggests that the geopolymer exhibited high resistance against acid attack with an observed increase of unconfined compressive strength even when the immersion time in acidic solution was increased to 56 days. The mineralogical phase, microstructure, and morphology of the material were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), respectively. Results not only confirmed the formation of gypsum due to acid attack but also indicated the dissolution of anorthite and albite that may have caused the microstructure to be composed of sodium aluminosilicate hydrate (N–A–S–H) and calcium (alumino) silicate hydrate (C(–A)–S–H) with poly(ferro-sialate-siloxo) and poly(ferro-sialate-disiloxo) networks. A column leaching test with deionized water was also performed on the soil-fly ash geopolymer to study the leachability of metals in the material. Results showed that arsenic exhibits higher mobility in the geopolymer as compared to that of cadmium, chromium, and lead.
Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of N-pyrazinylbenzamides as Potential Antimycobacterial Agents
Authors: Zitko Jan , Mindlová Alžběta , Valášek Ondřej , Jand’ourek Ondřej , Paterová Pavla , Janoušek Jiří , Konečná Klára , Doležal Martin
Published: September 2018

Three series of N-(pyrazin-2-yl)benzamides were designed as retro-amide analogues of previously published N-phenylpyrazine-2-carboxamides with in vitro antimycobacterial activity. The synthesized retro-amides were evaluated for in vitro growth inhibiting activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv (Mtb), three non-tuberculous mycobacterial strains (M. avium, M. kansasii, M. smegmatis) and selected bacterial and fungal strains of clinical importance. Regarding activity against Mtb, most N-pyrazinylbenzamides (retro-amides) possessed lower or no activity compared to the corresponding N-phenylpyrazine-2-carboxamides with the same substitution pattern. However, the active retro-amides tended to have lower HepG2 cytotoxicity and better selectivity. Derivatives with 5-chloro substitution on the pyrazine ring were generally more active compared to their 6-cloro positional isomers or non-chlorinated analogues. The best antimycobacterial activity against Mtb was found in N-(5-chloropyrazin-2-yl)benzamides with short alkyl (2h: R2 = Me; 2i: R2 = Et) in position 4 of the benzene ring (MIC = 6.25 and 3.13 µg/mL, respectively, with SI > 10). N-(5-Chloropyrazin-2-yl)benzamides with hydroxy substitution (2b: R2 = 2-OH; 2d: R2 = 4-OH) on the benzene ring or their acetylated synthetic precursors possessed the broadest spectrum of activity, being active in all three groups of mycobacterial, bacterial and fungal strains. The substantial differences in in silico calculated properties (hydrogen-bond pattern analysis, molecular electrostatic potential, HOMO and LUMO) can justify the differences in biological activities between N-pyrazinylbenzamides and N-phenylpyrazine-2-carboxamides.
Repressed Exercise-Induced Hepcidin Levels after Danggui Buxue Tang Supplementation in Male Recreational Runners
Authors: Chang Chih-Wei , Chen Chao-Yen , Yen Ching-Chi , Wu Yu-Tse , Hsu Mei-Chich
Published: September 2018

This study was to investigate the protective and recovery effects of Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT) supplementation on exercise performance, hepcidin, iron status, and other related biochemical parameters after being challenged by a single bout of intense aerobic exercise. A total of 36 recreationally active males were pair-matched and randomly assigned to receive DBT or a placebo for 11 days, while using clusters based on their aerobic capacities. On the eighth day of the supplementation, the participants performed a 13-km run with maximal effort. Blood and urine samples were collected and analysed before treatment (Pre-Tre) and immediately after (Post-Ex), 24 h after (24-h Rec), and 72 h after (72-h Rec) the run. DBT supplementation dramatically shortened the finish times by 14.0% (12.3 min) when compared with that in the placebo group. Significant group × time effects were observed in serum hepcidin and iron levels. DBT supplementation repressed hepcidin levels at Post-Ex and 24-h Rec, thereby causing a significant increase in iron levels by 63.3% and 31.4% at Post-Ex and 72-h Rec, respectively. However, DBT supplementation had no significant anti-inflammatory or haemolysis-preventative effects. Short-term DBT supplementation shortened the running time and repressed exercise-induced hepcidin levels, thereby boosting iron levels and accelerating iron homeostasis during recovery.
Astaxanthin Inhibits Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Interleukin-8 Expression in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Gastric Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kim Suhn Hyung , Lim Joo Weon , Kim Hyeyoung
Published: September 2018

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection leads to gastric inflammation, peptic ulcer and gastric carcinoma. H. pylori activates NADPH oxidase and increases reactive oxygen species (ROS), which induce NF-κB activation and IL-8 expression in gastric epithelial cells. Dysfunctional mitochondria trigger inflammatory cytokine production. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors-γ (PPAR-γ) regulate inflammatory response. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells against oxidative stress. The present study was aimed at determining whether astaxanthin inhibits H. pylori-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, NF-κB activation, and IL-8 expression via PPAR-γ activation in gastric epithelial cells. Gastric epithelial AGS cells were treated with astaxanthin, NADPH oxidase inhibitor apocynin and PPAR-γ antagonist GW9662, and infected with H. pylori. As a result, H. pylori caused an increase in intracellular and mitochondrial ROS, NF-κB activation and IL-8 expression, but decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP level. Astaxanthin inhibited H. pylori-induced alterations (increased ROS, mitochondrial dysfunction, NF-κB activation, and IL-8 expression). Astaxanthin activated PPAR-γ and its target gene catalase in H. pylori-infected cells. Apocynin reduced ROS and inhibited IL-8 expression while astaxanthin did not affect NADPH oxidase activity. Inhibitory effects of astaxanthin on ROS levels and IL-8 expression were suppressed by addition of GW9662. In conclusion, astaxanthin inhibits H. pylori-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS-mediated IL-8 expression by activating PPAR-γ and catalase in gastric epithelial cells. Astaxanthin may be beneficial for preventing oxidative stress-mediated gastric inflammation-associated H. pylori infection.
The Effect of White Rice and White Bread as Staple Foods on Gut Microbiota and Host Metabolism
Authors: Mano Fumika , Ikeda Kaori , Joo Erina , Fujita Yoshihito , Yamane Shunsuke , Harada Norio , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of two kinds of major Japanese staple foods, white rice and white bread, on gut microbiota against the background in which participants eat common side dishes. Seven healthy subjects completed the dietary intervention with two 1-week test periods with a 1-week wash-out period in cross-over design (UMIN registration UMIN000023142). White bread or white rice and 21 frozen prepared side dishes were consumed during the test periods. At baseline and at the end of each period, fasting blood samples, breath samples, and fecal samples were collected. For fecal samples, 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the gut microbiota. After the bread period, the abundance of fecal Bifidobacterium genus (19.2 ± 14.5 vs. 6.2 ± 6.6 (%), p = 0.03), fasting glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) (13.6 ± 2.0 vs. 10.5 ± 2.9 (pg/mL), p = 0.03), and breath hydrogen (23.4 ± 9.9 vs. 8.2 ± 5.5 (ppm), p = 0.02) were significantly higher than those of after the rice period. Plasma SCFAs also tended to be higher after the bread period. White bread contains more dietary fiber than refined short grain rice. These findings suggest that indigestible carbohydrate intake from short grain rice as a staple food may be smaller than that of white bread.
Two Down Syndrome Patients with Bilateral Profound Hearing Loss: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Zheng Yu , Yang Juan-Mei , Zhao Meng , Qian Xiao-Qing , Chi Fang-Lu
Published: September 2018

Hearing loss is not uncommon among patients with Down syndrome (DS). It has been reported in 38–78% of the Down syndrome population. However, profound hearing loss in DS patients is rarely noticed due to its low incidence. In this article, we reported two Down syndrome patients with bilateral profound hearing loss in two cases. The first case involved an eight-year-old DS child experiencing extremely severe defects in terms of language and severe defects in terms of gross motor function, adaptability, and sociability. The second case revolved around another DS child with bilateral cochlear nerve absence. We review literature on the DS patients with hearing loss and conclude that profound sensorineural hearing loss in those patients has not received enough attention so far. We also recommend that cochlear implantation (CI) suitability assessment and timely intervention via cochlear implantation are necessary in DS patients. Besides, benefits from CI would be limited and hearing rehabilitation process could be much slower when compared with children without additional inabilities.
Mitochondrial Targeting in Neurodegeneration: A Heme Perspective
Authors: Fiorito Veronica , Chiabrando Deborah , Tolosano Emanuela
Published: September 2018

Mitochondrial dysfunction has achieved an increasing interest in the field of neurodegeneration as a pathological hallmark for different disorders. The impact of mitochondria is related to a variety of mechanisms and several of them can co-exist in the same disease. The central role of mitochondria in neurodegenerative disorders has stimulated studies intended to implement therapeutic protocols based on the targeting of the distinct mitochondrial processes. The review summarizes the most relevant mechanisms by which mitochondria contribute to neurodegeneration, encompassing therapeutic approaches. Moreover, a new perspective is proposed based on the heme impact on neurodegeneration. The heme metabolism plays a central role in mitochondrial functions, and several evidences indicate that alterations of the heme metabolism are associated with neurodegenerative disorders. By reporting the body of knowledge on this topic, the review intends to stimulate future studies on the role of heme metabolism in neurodegeneration, envisioning innovative strategies in the struggle against neurodegenerative diseases.
Creatinine-Based Renal Function Estimates and Dosage of Postoperative Pain Management for Elderly Acute Hip Fracture Patients
Authors: Houlind Morten Baltzer , Petersen Kristian Kjær , Palm Henrik , Jørgensen Lillian Mørch , Aakjær Mia , Christrup Lona Louring , Petersen Janne , Andersen Ove , Treldal Charlotte
Published: September 2018

Many analgesics and their metabolites are renally excreted. The widely used Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI)-estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equations are not developed for use in the elderly, while the recent Berlin Initiative Study (BIS), Full Age Spectrum (FAS), and Lund-Malmö revised (LMR) equations are. This observational study investigated differences between creatinine-based eGFR equations and how the choice of equation influences dosage of analgesics in elderly (≥70 years) patients admitted with acute hip fracture. eGFR was calculated by the CKD-EPI, BIS, Cockcroft-Gault (CG), FAS, LMR, and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) equations. Standard daily dose for postoperative pain medications ibuprofen, morphine and gabapentin was simulated for each equation according to dosage recommendations in Renbase®. For 118 patients, mean eGFR from the CKD-EPI, BIS, CG, FAS, LMR, and MDRD equations was 67.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, 59.1 mL/min/1.73 m2, 56.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, 60.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, 58.9 mL/min/1.73 m2, and 79.1 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively (p < 0.0001). Mean difference to CKD-EPI was −10.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 to 11.8 mL/min/1.73 m2. Choice of eGFR equation significantly influenced the recommended dose (p < 0.0001). Shifting to BIS, FAS, or LMR equations led to a lower recommended dose in 20% to 31% of patients. Choice of eGFR equation significantly influenced dosing of ibuprofen, morphine, and gabapentin.
Hydrophobic Modification of Nanocellulose via a Two-Step Silanation Method
Authors: Lin Wensheng , Hu Xiaoyong , You Xueqing , Sun Yingying , Wen Yueqin , Yang Wenbin , Zhang Xinxiang , Li Yan , Chen Hanxian
Published: September 2018

Dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTMOS), which is a silanation modifier, was grafted onto nanocellulose crystals (NCC) through a two-step method using KH560 (ɤ-(2,3-epoxyproxy)propytrimethoxysilane) as a linker to improve the hydrophobicity of NCC. The reaction mechanism of NCC with KH560 and DTMOS and its surface chemical characteristics were investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and HCl–acetone titration. These analyses confirmed that KH560 was grafted onto the surface of NCC through the ring-opening reaction, before DTMOS was covalently grafted onto the surface of NCC using KH560 as a linker. The grafting of NCC with DTMOS resulted in an improvement in its hydrophobicity due to an increase in its water contact angle from 0° to about 140°. In addition, the modified NCC also possessed enhanced thermal stability.
The Impact of Plasticizer and Degree of Hydrolysis on Free Volume of Poly(vinyl alcohol) Films
Authors: Fong Rebecca , Robertson Alexander , Mallon Peter , Thompson Richard
Published: September 2018

The effect of plasticizer species and the degree of hydrolysis (DH) on the free volume properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) were studied using positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Both glycerol and propylene glycol caused an increase in the free volume cavity radius, although exhibited distinct plasticization behavior, with glycerol capable of occupying existing free volume cavities in the PVA to some extent. The influence of water, normally present in PVA film under atmospheric conditions, was also isolated. Water added significantly to the measured free volume cavity radius in both plasticized and pure PVA matrices. Differences in plasticization behavior can be attributed to the functionality of each plasticizing additive and its hydrogen bonding capability. The increase in cavity radii upon plasticizer loading shows a qualitative link between the free volume of voids and the corresponding reduction in Tg and crystallinity. Cavity radius decreases with increasing DH, due to PVA network tightening in the absence of acetate groups. This corresponds well with the higher Tg observed in the resin with the higher DH. DH was also shown to impact the plasticization of PVA with glycerol, indicating that the larger cavities—created by the weaker hydrogen bonding acetate groups—are capable of accommodating glycerol molecules with negligible effect on the cavity dimensions.
Compressive Strength and Leaching Behavior of Mortars with Biomass Ash
Authors: Fava Gabriele , Naik Tarun R. , Pierpaoli Mattia
Published: September 2018

This study investigated the use of a biomass ash produced by a fuel combination made with wood, corn stover, and corn cob as cement replacement for the production of mortar. Biomasses are now widely accepted as a substitute for conventional fuels and are becoming essential for cost-effective production of energy. This study aimed to provide an opportunity for the annual agricultural corn-crop residue, corn stover and cob, which is increasingly being used as fuel for its valuable energy content. Measurements of workability, compressive strength, and leachate properties (pH, salinity, heavy metals and calcium ion release) of mortar specimen, at different cement substitution levels and ages, were evaluated. The results obtained reveal definitive possibilities for such mixed biomass ash to be used in cement-based materials, such as mortars. Moreover, a multiple regression analysis has been reported between the mass of calcium ions leached and the mixture composition with the compressive strength. Data show that further confirmation, on a longer span of time and of other types of mechanical properties and environmental tests, would be necessary to fully implement the use of such biomass ashes in various types of cement-based construction materials, in order to divert them from landfill disposal.
The Blackness of Liet-Kynes: Reading Frank Herbert’s Dune Through James Cone
Authors: Herman Peter
Published: September 2018

Frank Herbert’s landmark science fiction novel Dune has received numerous sequels, prequels, and film treatments. Detailing the saga of humanity’s far future beyond our present solar system, the work plays successfully with religious, political, and ecological themes. This essay deals with the social/theological implications of two figures within the story-world of Dune: Its protagonist and visible hero, Paul Atreides/Muad’Dib and the lesser figure of the “Imperial Planetologist” Dr. Kynes, also known to the Fremen as “Liet”. By reading these two figures through the theology of James Cone, we discover that the obvious hero is not a messianic figure but a demonic one. Further, it is the lesser character of Liet-Kynes who actually fulfills the messianic role in Cone’s theological system. This essay is preceded by and makes use of Jeremy Ian Kirk’s work with the film Avatar that provides similar analysis. Where Kirk’s principal concern is with the ethical considerations of Avatar, this essay will more closely bear on Cone’s dynamic of redemption and conversion, specifically his notion of dying to white identity to be reborn in blackness.
Maximal Singularity-Free Orientation Subregions Associated with Initial Parallel Manipulator Configuration
Authors: Garcia Luis , Campos Alexandre
Published: September 2018

Reduced workspace is the main parallel robot disadvantage. It is generally due to the robot configuration, mainly the platform orientation constraint, the present work intends to find the maximum sphere within the orientation workspace, i.e., the singularity-free orientation regions. These regions are related to the platform orientation through Roll-Pitch-Yaw angles. Therefore, an optimization genetic algorithm is used to determine the initial platform orientation corresponding to the largest sphere volume. In this algorithm, the geometrical parameters and the direct and inverse singularities are the optimization constraints. The geometrical constraints may be studied using vectorial analysis. The reciprocity property from screw theory is implemented to analyze the direct and inverse kinematic. In this work it is used a methodology to verify the singularity closeness measure associated with direct kinematic. This measure is related to the rate of work done by each leg upon the platform twist. To determine how close is the parallel robot to a direct singularity a index value is proposed. It is considered that the passive joints reachable regions may be limited by a cone, whereby the cone symmetric axis is the same than the passive joint axis. In the optimization problem, the sphere volume, i.e., the maximal angular displacement of the moving platform around any axis is the objective function. Thus, the genetic algorithm individuals explore all feasible regions looking for an optimal solution.
The Potential of Spectral Indices in Detecting Various Stages of Afforestation over the Loess Plateau Region of China
Authors: Guo Jing , Gong Peng
Published: September 2018

China has the greatest afforestation area in the world, mainly due to the implementation of various ecological restoration projects, which have taken place over several decades. However, the progress of these restoration projects has rarely been evaluated through sapling growth monitoring. In this research, we assessed the potential of eighteen spectral indices derived from time-series Landsat data to characterize the different stages of afforestation over the Loess Plateau region. First, we obtained data for the afforestation area from 1997 to 2010. Then we estimated the average year of afforestation that could be uniquely identified and the sensitivity to growth exhibited by each of the indices. The results show that the first shortwave infrared band (SWIR1) of the Landsat Thematic Mapper and the Brightness index from the tasseled cap transformation (TCB) had the fastest response to sapling growth. It takes 4.2 and 4.3 years on average for the saplings to be detected as forest by SWIR1 and TCB, respectively. However, these two indices saturate too soon to allow better distinction of the various stages of sapling growth but are better for monitoring the over-reporting situation. By contrast, the disturbance index (DI), and the normalized burnt ratio (NBR) and the normalized burnt ratio 2 (NBR2) respond slowly to sapling growth and can detect forest at 7.4 years on average. Unlike SWIR1 and TCB, these indices do not saturate early and can provide more detail on the level and structural condition of sapling growth.
Simultaneous Localization and Map Change Update for the High Definition Map-Based Autonomous Driving Car
Authors: Jo Kichun , Kim Chansoo , Sunwoo Myoungho
Published: September 2018

High Definition (HD) maps are becoming key elements of the autonomous driving because they can provide information about the surrounding environment of the autonomous car without being affected by the real-time perception limit. To provide the most recent environmental information to the autonomous driving system, the HD map must maintain up-to-date data by updating changes in the real world. This paper presents a simultaneous localization and map change update (SLAMCU) algorithm to detect and update the HD map changes. A Dempster–Shafer evidence theory is applied to infer the HD map changes based on the evaluation of the HD map feature existence. A Rao–Blackwellized particle filter (RBPF) approach is used to concurrently estimate the vehicle position and update the new map state. The detected and updated map changes by the SLAMCU are reported to the HD map database in order to reflect the changes to the HD map and share the changing information with the other autonomous cars. The SLAMCU was evaluated through experiments using the HD map of traffic signs in the real traffic conditions.
A Reduced GO-Graphene Hybrid Gas Sensor for Ultra-Low Concentration Ammonia Detection
Authors: Wang Chang , Lei Shaochong , Li Xin , Guo Shixi , Cui Ping , Wei Xianqi , Liu Weihua , Liu Hongzhong
Published: September 2018

A hybrid structure gas sensor of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) decorated graphene (RGO-Gr) is designed for ultra-low concentration ammonia detection. The resistance value of the RGO-Gr hybrid is the indicator of the ammonia concentration and controlled by effective charge transport from RGO to graphene after ammonia molecule adsorption. In this hybrid material, RGO is the adsorbing layer to catch ammonia molecules and graphene is the conductive layer to effectively enhance charge/electron transport. Compared to a RGO gas sensor, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the RGO-Gr is increased from 22 to 1008. Meanwhile, the response of the RGO-Gr gas sensor is better than that of either a pristine graphene or RGO gas sensor. It is found that the RGO reduction time is related to the content of functional groups that directly reflect on the gas sensing properties of the sensor. The RGO-Gr gas sensor with 10 min reduction time has the best gas sensing properties in this type of sensor. The highest sensitivity is 2.88% towards 0.5 ppm, and the ammonia gas detection limit is calculated to be 36 ppb.
Smartphone-Based Traveled Distance Estimation Using Individual Walking Patterns for Indoor Localization
Authors: Kang Jiheon , Lee Joonbeom , Eom Doo-Seop
Published: September 2018

We introduce a novel method for indoor localization with the user’s own smartphone by learning personalized walking patterns outdoors. Most smartphone and pedestrian dead reckoning (PDR)-based indoor localization studies have used an operation between step count and stride length to estimate the distance traveled via generalized formulas based on the manually designed features of the measured sensory signal. In contrast, we have applied a different approach to learn the velocity of the pedestrian by using a segmented signal frame with our proposed hybrid multiscale convolutional and recurrent neural network model, and we estimate the distance traveled by computing the velocity and the moved time. We measured the inertial sensor and global position service (GPS) position at a synchronized time while walking outdoors with a reliable GPS fix, and we assigned the velocity as a label obtained from the displacement between the current position and a prior position to the corresponding signal frame. Our proposed real-time and automatic dataset construction method dramatically reduces the cost and significantly increases the efficiency of constructing a dataset. Moreover, our proposed deep learning model can be naturally applied to all kinds of time-series sensory signal processing. The performance was evaluated on an Android application (app) that exported the trained model and parameters. Our proposed method achieved a distance error of <2.4% and >1.5% on indoor experiments.
A Type of Annulus-Based Energy Balanced Data Collection Method in Wireless Rechargeable Sensor Networks
Authors: Sha Chao , Liu Qin , Song Si-Yi , Wang Ru-Chuan
Published: September 2018

With the increasing number of ubiquitous terminals and the continuous expansion of network scale, the problem of unbalanced energy consumption in sensor networks has become increasingly prominent in recent years. However, a node scheduling strategy or an energy consumption optimization algorithm may be not enough to meet the requirements of large-scale application. To address this problem a type of Annulus-based Energy Balanced Data Collection (AEBDC) method is proposed in this paper. The circular network is divided into several annular sectors of different sizes. Nodes in the same annulus-sector form a cluster. Based on this model, a multi-hop data forwarding strategy with the help of the candidate cluster headers is proposed to balance energy consumption during transmission and to avoid buffer overflow. Meanwhile, in each annulus, there is a Wireless Charging Vehicle (WCV) that is responsible for periodically recharging the cluster headers as well as the candidate cluster headers. By minimizing the recharging cost, the energy efficiency is enhanced. Simulation results show that AEBDC can not only alleviate the “energy hole problem” in sensor networks, but also effectively prolong the network lifetime.
Performance Evaluation Strategies for Eye Gaze Estimation Systems with Quantitative Metrics and Visualizations
Authors: Kar Anuradha , Corcoran Peter
Published: September 2018

An eye tracker’s accuracy and system behavior play critical roles in determining the reliability and usability of eye gaze data obtained from them. However, in contemporary eye gaze research, there exists a lot of ambiguity in the definitions of gaze estimation accuracy parameters and lack of well-defined methods for evaluating the performance of eye tracking systems. In this paper, a set of fully defined evaluation metrics are therefore developed and presented for complete performance characterization of generic commercial eye trackers, when they operate under varying conditions on desktop or mobile platforms. In addition, some useful visualization methods are implemented, which will help in studying the performance and data quality of eye trackers irrespective of their design principles and application areas. Also the concept of a graphical user interface software named GazeVisual v1.1 is proposed that would integrate all these methods and enable general users to effortlessly access the described metrics, generate visualizations and extract valuable information from their own gaze datasets. We intend to present these tools as open resources in future to the eye gaze research community for use and further advancement, as a contribution towards standardization of gaze research outputs and analysis.
Young People’s Critical Politicization in Spain in the Great Recession: A Generational Reconfiguration?
Authors: Benedicto Jorge , Ramos María
Published: September 2018

During the last decade, Spain has experienced, like other surrounding countries, a deep economic crisis accompanied by an unprecedented political and institutional crisis. This has led to a growing mistrust in institutions and a dissatisfaction with democracy, but also an increase in interest in politics, which implies an interesting change regarding other situations. Young people of the so-called ‘crisis generation’, who have socialized in a new and changing context, also participate in this process of change, and have moreover played a leading role in the public space. In order to analyze young people’s politicization process, in this article we use data from the European Social Survey (rounds 1–7, from 2000 to 2014) and the Young People in Spain Survey (2016). We developed a typology of attitudes towards politics and identified, using discrete choice models, the demographic and socioeconomic profile of young people particularly dissatisfied with politics. Our results show that, although young people socialized in the context of the crisis are very critical of politics, instead of moving further away from democratic politics or rejecting it openly, in most cases they politicize their discontent. Even those most critical of the way in which democracy works in the country have a very participatory political behavior, both in forms of nonelectoral and electoral participation.
A Brief Review of Personality in Marathon Runners: The Role of Sex, Age and Performance Level
Authors: Nikolaidis Pantelis , Rosemann Thomas , Knechtle Beat
Published: September 2018

The participation of recreational runners in sport events ranging from 5 km to ultra-endurance races have increased dramatically during the last decades and this phenomenon has attracted scientific interest. Most research has focused on the physiological characteristics of these runners and less in their psychological characteristics. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to review the existing knowledge with regards to the personality of recreational endurance runners and the role of sex, age and performance. It was concluded that limited information was available with regards to the personality of recreational marathon runners. So far, our knowledge on the personality of marathon runners relied on studies conducted a few decades ago, mostly on competitive marathon runners, highlighting the need for original research on recreational runners.
Influence of Livelihood Capitals on Livelihood Strategies of Herdsmen in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Ding Wenqiang , Jimoh Saheed Olaide , Hou Yulu , Hou Xiangyang , Zhang Weiguo
Published: September 2018

Herders’ living strategy is a function of the capitals at their disposal which also serve as a buffering mechanism when shocks arise. An insight into the connection between livelihood strategies and capitals owned by herders provides guidance to recognize their living situation. This study evaluated the different livelihood capitals of herders across the five ecological types (meadow, typical, desert, sandy, and desert steppe) in Inner Mongolia region of China, using the sustainable livelihood framework approach. An evaluation index was developed and used to investigate how the livelihood capitals of herders affects preferential selection of livelihood strategies using multinomial logit model. Results indicate that: (1) The stocks of human and social capitals were higher while those for natural, physical, and financial capitals were lower. (2) There were significant regional differences in the livelihood capital stock of herders’ families with zonal horizontal decrease from east to west. (3) Natural capitals affects the preferential selection of livelihood strategies by herders positively implying that possession of more natural capitals by herders leads to selection of livelihood strategies that are devoid of pastoral production; the preferred livelihood strategy of herders was significantly negatively affected by physical and financial capitals, an indication that, when herders possess more physical and financial capitals, they tend to choose livelihood strategies that involve pastoral production. The living strategy of herders was not affected by human and social capitals. (4) Production of rented pasture capital index affected the preferential selection of livelihood strategies by herders positively while cash income capital index had negative influence on how pastoralists select their livelihood strategies. In conclusion, the total livelihood capital of herders in Inner Mongolia is low, and there is perceived benefit in the differentiation of herders families into petty-herders and non-grazing families from the perception of natural resource management and sustainability. This requires income diversification programs such as capacity building and business education that will aid the smooth transition of households to these less resource exploiting livelihood strategies.
Introduction to the Special Issue “Electromagnetic Waves Pollution”
Authors: Calabrò Emanuele
Published: September 2018

Modern technology has largely developed using energy forms of which the most relevant is surely electricity. Electric power stations generate alternate current at frequencies of 50 or 60 Hz, transmitted across high voltage transmission lines that are often located too near to buildings where humans live or work. In addition, home devices that work using alternate current expose humans to extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields. Furthermore, trams, electric trains, and some industrial processes generate static magnetic fields. Electromagnetic fields produce non-ionizing radiation, which gives rise to the so-called electromagnetic waves pollution, also named electrosmog. A large scientific production study showed harmful effects of exposure to EMFs. In view of these results, the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection published international guidelines in order to recommend exposure limits to EMFs for occupational exposure and for general public exposure. The aim of this thematic issue is to give a further contribution to highlight the problem of electromagnetic waves pollution and to investigate the effects of exposure to EMFs on biological systems even below the EMF limits recommended by ICNIRP.
Impact of Economic Growth and Energy Consumption on Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Testing Environmental Curves Hypotheses on EU Countries
Authors: Sterpu Mihaela , Soava Georgeta , Mehedintu Anca
Published: September 2018

This study analyses the relationship between per capita greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, gross domestic product, gross inland energy consumption, and renewable energy consumption for a panel of 28 countries of European Union in the period 1990–2016. Two theoretical models, a quadratic and a cubic one, are used to estimate the shape of the environmental curve and to test the Kuznets hypothesis. The panel cointegration approach proved the existence of long-run equilibrium relations among the four macroeconomic indicators. Empirical estimations, using panel data techniques, as well as heterogeneous regression for each individual country in the panel, show non-conclusive evidence for the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis. The least square estimates, with the variables in log per capita form, reveal that the inverted U-shaped EKC hypothesis is verified for the panel and for 17 of the 28 EU countries. Estimates of the cubic model show that the environmental curve has an inverted N-shaped form. These results do not hold when the values are in non-logarithmic form. In addition, the estimations for all models show that an increase of gross energy consumption leads to an increase of GHGs, while an increase of renewable energy consumption leads to a reduction in GHG emissions.
Between Soviet Legacy and Corporate Social Responsibility: Emerging Benefit Sharing Frameworks in the Irkutsk Oil Region, Russia
Authors: Tysiachniouk Maria , Petrov Andrey N. , Kuklina Vera , Krasnoshtanova Natalia
Published: September 2018

Benefit sharing arrangements are a central element of the interactions between oil companies and local communities in resource regions of the Arctic and sub-Arctic. This paper focused on developing a systematic understanding and typology of benefit sharing arrangements within the oil sector in the Russian Arctic and sub-Arctic, using the Irkutsk Oil Region as a case study. It provided a critical analysis of prevalent arrangements and practices (modes and mechanisms of benefit sharing), as well as examined institutional and social underpinnings of these benefit sharing frameworks. Qualitative methodology with semi-structured interviews were used. The paper demonstrated that sub-Arctic communities are not equally benefiting from oil and gas extraction. Despite a considerable variety of existing arrangements revealed by this study, no benefit sharing mode or mechanism prevalent today ensures sustainable development of local communities. This may stem from the incompatibility between post-Soviet legacies, corporate social responsibility principles, and local institutional frameworks. Although focused on a particular region, this research was indicative of general benefit sharing patterns in modern Russia and beyond.
Fostering Sustainable Entrepreneurs: Evidence from China College Students’ “Internet Plus” Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition (CSIPC)
Authors: Yan Xiaohan , Gu Dongxiao , Liang Changyong , Zhao Shuping , Lu Wenxing
Published: September 2018

Entrepreneurial activities of college students have received unprecedented attention under the “mass entrepreneurship and innovation” program. This program encourages individuals to start their own businesses and stimulate the entrepreneurial spirit and innovative genes of the nation. Sustainable entrepreneurship is a new form of entrepreneurship that plays an important role in addressing the employment problems of college students, promoting sustainable social and economic development, and alleviating China’s environmental problems. Based on the platform of the China College Students’ “Internet Plus” Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition (CSIPC) organized by the Ministry of Education of People’s Republic of China, we investigated the specific paths of personality trait influence on sustainable entrepreneurial intention of college students with entrepreneurial alertness and opportunity recognition as mediating variables. We conducted an empirical analysis based on 316 data collected from CSIPC participants. Results of data analysis show that personality traits had a significantly effect on sustainable entrepreneurial intention of college students, and entrepreneurial alertness and opportunity recognition played a mediating role between personality traits and sustainable entrepreneurial intention of college students. This study contributes to research on sustainable entrepreneurship and the practices of colleges to foster sustainable entrepreneurs.
Statistical Evidence on the Role of Energy Cooperatives for the Energy Transition in European Countries
Authors: Wierling August , Schwanitz Valeria Jana , Zeiß Jan Pedro , Bout Celine , Candelise Chiara , Gilcrease Winston , Gregg Jay Sterling
Published: September 2018

The share of renewable energy is increasing throughout Europe. Yet, little is known about how much can be attributed to different actors, other than those commercially active. This paper provides empirical evidence of activities by energy cooperatives in the field of renewable energy in four different European countries. It draws from a database consisting of 2671 entries, contrasting results from current literature. We find that energy cooperatives are important enablers of the energy transition. However, their role is shrinking in recent years due to a tightening or removal of supportive schemes. We conclude that it is necessary to develop a systematic accounting system to properly track and make visible the contributions by different actors. In turn, this will help to better model the likely speed of Europe’s energy transition.