bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Issues and Prospects for the Sustainable Use and Conservation of Cultivated Vegetable Diversity for More Nutrition-Sensitive Agriculture
Authors: Meldrum Gennifer , Padulosi Stefano , Lochetti Gaia , Robitaille Rose , Diulgheroff Stefano
Published: July 2018

Traditional vegetables are key assets for supporting more nutrition-sensitive agriculture under climate change as many have lower water requirements, adaptation to poor quality soils, higher resistance to pests and diseases, and higher nutritional values as compared to global vegetables. The effective use of traditional vegetables can be challenged however by lack of information and poor conservation status. This study reviewed the uses, growth forms and geographic origins of cultivated vegetables worldwide and the levels of research, ex situ conservation, and documentation they have received in order to identify gaps and priorities for supporting more effective use of global vegetable diversity. A total of 1097 vegetables were identified in a review of the Mansfeld Encyclopedia of Agricultural and Horticultural Plants, including species used for leaves (n = 495), multiple vegetative parts (n = 227), roots (n = 204), fruits or seeds (n = 90), and other parts like flowers, inflorescences, and stems (n = 81). Root vegetables have received significantly less research attention than other types of vegetable. Therophytes (annuals) have received significantly more attention from research and conservation efforts than vegetables with other growth forms, while vegetables originating in Africa (n = 406) and the Asian-Pacific region (n = 165) are notably neglected. Documentation for most vegetable species is poor and the conservation of many vegetables is largely realized on farm through continued use. Supportive policies are needed to advance research, conservation, and documentation of neglected vegetable species to protect and further their role in nutrition-sensitive agriculture.
Engaging with Raman Spectroscopy to Investigate Antibody Aggregation
Authors: Ettah Ilokugbe , Ashton Lorna
Published: July 2018

In the last decade, a number of studies have successfully demonstrated Raman spectroscopy as an emerging analytical technique for monitoring antibody aggregation, especially in the context of drug development and formulation. Raman spectroscopy is a robust method for investigating protein conformational changes, even in highly concentrated antibody solutions. It is non-destructive, reproducible and can probe samples in an aqueous environment. In this review, we focus on the application and challenges associated with using Raman spectroscopy as a tool to study antibody aggregates.
A Hybrid Fuzzy Analysis Network Process (FANP) and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) Approaches for Solid Waste to Energy Plant Location Selection in Vietnam
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Nguyen Van Thanh , Duong Duy Hung , Thai Hoang Tuyet Nhi
Published: July 2018

Many research studies have applied the multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach to various fields of science and engineering, and this trend has been increasing for many years. One of the fields that the MCDM model has been employed is for location selection, yet very few studies consider this problem under fuzzy environmental conditions. In this research, the authors propose an MCDM approach, including fuzzy analysis network process (FANP), and the technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), for solid waste to energy plant location selection in Vietnam. In the first stage of this research, the ANP approach with fuzzy logic is applied to determine the weight of criteria. In the FANP model, the value of the criteria is provided by the experts so that the disadvantages of this model are that the input data, expressed in linguistic terms, depends on the experience of experts, and thus involves subjectivity. This is a reason why TOPSIS model was proposed for ranking alternatives in the final stage. Analysis shows that Hau Giang (Decision Making Unit 8 (DMU 8)) is the best location for building solid waste to energy plant, because it has the shortest geometric distance from the positive ideal solution (PIS) and the longest geometric distance from the negative ideal solution (NIS). The contribution of this research is a proposed hybrid FANP and TOPSIS approach for solid waste to energy plant location selection in Vietnam under fuzzy environmental conditions. This paper is also part of an evolution of a new hybrid model that is flexible and practical for decision makers. In addition, the research also provides a special, useful guideline in solid waste to energy plant location selection in many countries, as well as provides a guideline for location selection in other industries. Thus, this research makes significant contributions on both academic and practical fronts.
Performance Assessment of a Developed Brake Frame Based on the Application of a Proposed Equivalent Model in a Net Protection System for Debris Flow
Authors: Kim Sungtae , Hong Sanghyun , Kim Jungjoo , Yoo Hankyu
Published: July 2018

The demand for a net protection system for mitigating debris flow has increased recently for which new energy absorption devices have been hereby developed. The purpose of this study is to analyze the behavior and energy absorption rate of a brake frame, to find an efficient approach for its numerical simulation, and to increase its field applicability by analyzing its effects. Three methodologies were used for this purpose. Firstly, quasi-static load tests were conducted for analyzing the behavior of the brake frame. Secondly, three-dimensional FE modeling was performed to analyze the buckling and fractural behavior of steel rings. Lastly, the effects of the brake frame were numerically analyzed based on a proposed equivalent model. The results show that the brake frame can withstand the external force by elastic/local buckling, fracture of a steel ring, and elastic/plastic behavior of wire rope, and has the energy absorption rate of 53 kJ. It is deduced that the proposed equivalent model is capable to accurately simulate the behavior of the brake frame and can replace the three-dimensional model. The tensile force reduction in the system by using brake frames was observed to be about 75%. It is concluded that the proposed equivalent model for brake frame design is practically applicable.
Bimetallic Nanoparticles: Enhanced Magnetic and Optical Properties for Emerging Biological Applications
Authors: Srinoi Pannaree , Chen Yi-Ting , Vittur Varadee , Marquez Maria D. , Lee T. Randall
Published: July 2018

Metal nanoparticles are extensively studied due to their unique chemical and physical properties, which differ from the properties of their respective bulk materials. Likewise, the properties of heterogeneous bimetallic structures are far more attractive than those of single-component nanoparticles. For example, the incorporation of a second metal into a nanoparticle structure influences and can potentially enhance the optical/plasmonic and magnetic properties of the material. This review focuses on the enhanced optical/plasmonic and magnetic properties offered by bimetallic nanoparticles and their corresponding impact on biological applications. In this review, we summarize the predominant structures of bimetallic nanoparticles, outline their synthesis methods, and highlight their use in biological applications, both diagnostic and therapeutic, which are dictated by their various optical/plasmonic and magnetic properties.
On Hybrid Creativity
Authors: Lomas Andy
Published: July 2018

This article reviews the development of the author’s computational art practice, where the computer is used both as a device that provides the medium for generation of art (‘computer as art’) as well as acting actively as an assistant in the process of creating art (‘computer as artist’s assistant’), helping explore the space of possibilities afforded by generative systems. Drawing analogies with Kasparov’s Advanced Chess and the deliberate development of unstable aircraft using fly-by-wire technology, the article argues for a collaborative relationship with the computer that can free the artist to more fearlessly engage with the challenges of working with emergent systems that exhibit complex unpredictable behavior. The article also describes ‘Species Explorer’, the system the author has created in response to these challenges to assist exploration of the possibilities afforded by parametrically driven generative systems. This system provides a framework to allow the user to use a number of different techniques to explore new parameter combinations, including genetic algorithms, and machine learning methods. As the system learns the artist’s preferences the relationship with the computer can be considered to change from one of assistance to collaboration.
Effect of La3+ Modification on the Electrochemical Performance of Na3V2(PO4)2F3
Authors: Kosova Nina V. , Rezepova Daria O. , Montroussier Nicolas
Published: July 2018

La3+ modification of Na3V2(PO4)2F3 was performed by the direct mechanochemically assisted solid-state synthesis of the Na3V2−xLax(PO4)2F3 compositions, and by the LaPO4 coating of the as-prepared Na3V2(PO4)2F3 via the precipitation method. It has been shown that no noticeable substitution of the V3+ ions by the La3+ ions occurs in the Na3V2(PO4)2F3 structure under the synthesis conditions; meanwhile, the introduction of the La3+ ions into the reagent mixture leads to the formation of the LaPO4 phase, and accordingly, an increase in the NaF/VPO4 ratio. The latter results in the formation of the Na3PO4 and Na3VF6 surface impurity phases, which possess high ionic and electronic conductivity, respectively, and significantly enhances the electrical conductivity and the cycling performance of the composite cathode material both in Na and Li cells, while simple surface modification of Na3V2(PO4)2F3 by LaPO4 via precipitation does not.
A Novel Cell Penetrating Peptide for the Differentiation of Human Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Ma Weili , Jin Geun-woo , Gehret Paul M. , Chada Neil C. , Suh Won Hyuk
Published: July 2018

Retinoic acid (RA) is a bioactive lipid that has been shown to promote neural stem cell differentiation. However, the highly hydrophobic molecule needs to first solubilize and translocate across the cell membrane in order to exert a biological response. The cell entry of RA can be aided by cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), which are short amino acid sequences that are able to carry bioactive cargo past the cell membrane. In this work, a novel cell penetrating peptide was developed to deliver RA to human neural stem cells and, subsequently, promote neuronal differentiation. The novel CPP consists of a repeating sequence, whose number of repeats is proportional to the efficiency of cell penetration. Using fluorescence microscopy, the mode of translocation was determined to be related to an endocytic pathway. The levels of β-III tubulin (Tubb3) and microtubule associated protein 2 (MAP2) expression in neural stem cells treated with RA conjugated to the CPP were assessed by quantitative immunocytochemistry.
Controlling the Surface Oxygen Groups of Polyacrylonitrile-Based Carbon Nanofiber Membranes While Limiting Fiber Degradation
Authors: Han Yi , Li Ruoshi , Brückner Christian , Vadas Timothy M.
Published: July 2018

Enhancing the performance of nanofibrous carbons requires the specific chemical functionalization of the surface, while limiting material degradation or causing other detrimental changes in the surface area and pore structures. We compare traditional oxidation protocols using HNO3, HNO3/H2SO4, and KMnO4 with the much less used oxidants RuO4 and OsO4, in tandem with secondary oxidants (such as KMnO4 or Oxone®), for their ability to form carboxylic acids on the surface of polyacrylonitrile-based activated carbon nanofiber membrane (ACNF) materials. While the traditional methods increased the carboxylic acid contents, they also destroyed the macrostructure of the ACNF, concomitant with the loss of up to 17 wt.% of the material. RuO4-mediated oxidations proved also to be too harsh. On the contrary, some of the OsO4-based protocols were characterized by very high mass yields; significant increase in carboxylic acid functionalization (6.3 µmol/mg) compared with the unmodified ACNF (1.7 µmol/mg), but with no concomitant loss of macrostructure, as measured by the retention of the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area; and average pore width. While there was some reduction in micropore volume, the microporosity of the material remained high. The temperature-programmed desorption mass spectrometry (up to 1000 °C) indicated the presence of both single and adjacent carboxylic acid groups. We thus identified mild and highly effective reaction conditions for the functionalization of carbon nanomaterials without undue degradation of their physical properties.
Fabrication of Transparent Very Thin SiOx Doped Diamond-Like Carbon Films on a Glass Substrate
Authors: Chang Ya Chen , Liao Wei Bo , Wei Hung Sen , Liao Yan Yu , Chen Hung Pin , Kuo Chien Cheng
Published: July 2018

A novel direct current (DC) magnetron sputtering system via radio frequency (RF) bias with hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) plasma polymerization was developed for the deposition of SiOx-doped diamond-like carbon (DLC) films on a glass substrate. As the RF bias increased, the ratio of intensity of D peak and G peak (I(D)/I(G)) decreased and the G peak shifted to a low position, leading to high hardness and a large portion of sp3 bonds. Additionally, weak sp2 graphite bonds were broken and sp3 diamond bonds formed because the RF bias attracted hydrogen ion bombarding the DLC films. Increasing DC power was helpful to improve the hardness of the DLC films because the proportion of sp3 bonds and the I(D)/I(G) ration was increased. HMDSO was introduced into this process to form SiOx:DLC films with enhanced optical performance. The average transmittance in the visible region of these very thin SiOx:DLC films with a thickness of 37.5 nm was 80.3% and the hardness of the SiOx:DLC films was increased to 7.4 GPa, which was 23.3% higher than that of B270 substrates.
Effect of Polysorbates on Solids Wettability and Their Adsorption Properties
Authors: Szymczyk Katarzyna , Zdziennicka Anna , Jańczuk Bronisław
Published: July 2018

The wettability of solids is important from both practical and theoretical viewpoints. In this study, we measured the contact angle of aqueous solutions of polysorbates (Tween 20, Tween 60, and Tween 80) on polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene (PE), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyamide (nylon 6), and quartz. Based on the obtained results, the adsorption of Tween 20 (T20), Tween 60 (T60), and Tween 80 (T80) at the solid-water interface was determined based on the structure and size of their molecules. Next, the tendency of polysorbates to adsorb at the solid-water interface was considered based on the Gibbs standard free energy of adsorption (ΔGadso). This energy was evaluated using various methods, including a method we propose based on the critical micelle concentration (CMC) and the contact angle of water and solution at the CMC, as well as their surface tension. The ΔGadso values obtained by this method were comparable to those calculated from the Langmuir equation. Taking into account the Tweens tendency to adsorb at the solid-water interface, the measured contact angle, the components and parameters of surface tension of Tweens solutions and solids, and the surface tension of water and its Lifshitz-van der Waals component that we determined, the wetting process in the solid-solution drop-air system was analyzed. The results based on the mentioned parameters showed that it is possible to predict the wettability of apolar, monopolar, and bipolar solids using the aqueous Tweens solution and their solution adhesion.
Introducing Dairy: A Transdisciplinary Journal to Advance Understanding of Dairy Nutrition, Health and Productivity, Welfare and Well-Being as Well as Milk Synthesis-Composition and Health Effects of Its Products
Authors: Ametaj Burim
Published: July 2018

Milk is an excellent food source for both young animals and humans.[...]
Measuring Statistical Asymmetries of Stochastic Processes: Study of the Autoregressive Process
Authors: Yamashita Rios de Sousa Arthur Matsuo , Takayasu Hideki , Takayasu Misako
Published: July 2018

We use the definition of statistical symmetry as the invariance of a probability distribution under a given transformation and apply the concept to the underlying probability distribution of stochastic processes. To measure the degree of statistical asymmetry, we take the Kullback–Leibler divergence of a given probability distribution with respect to the corresponding transformed one and study it for the Gaussian autoregressive process using transformations on the temporal correlations’ structure. We then illustrate the employment of this notion as a time series analysis tool by measuring local statistical asymmetries of foreign exchange market price data for three transformations that capture distinct autocorrelation behaviors of the series—independence, non-negative correlations and Markovianity—obtaining a characterization of price movements in terms of each statistical symmetry.
An Informational Theoretical Approach to the Entropy of Liquids and Solutions
Authors: Ben-Naim Arieh
Published: July 2018

It is well known that the statistical mechanical theory of liquids has been lagging far behind the theory of either gases or solids, See for examples: Ben-Naim (2006), Fisher (1964), Guggenheim (1952) Hansen and McDonald (1976), Hill (1956), Temperley, Rowlinson and Rushbrooke (1968), O’Connell (1971). Information theory was recently used to derive and interpret the entropy of an ideal gas of simple particles (i.e., non-interacting and structure-less particles). Starting with Shannon’s measure of information (SMI), one can derive the entropy function of an ideal gas, the same function as derived by Sackur (1911) and Tetrode (1912). The new deviation of the same entropy function, based on SMI, has several advantages, as listed in Ben-Naim (2008, 2017). Here we mention two: First, it provides a simple interpretation of the various terms in this entropy function. Second, and more important for our purpose, this derivation may be extended to any system of interacting particles including liquids and solutions. The main idea is that once one adds intermolecular interactions between the particles, one also adds correlations between the particles. These correlations may be cast in terms of mutual information (MI). Hence, we can start with the informational theoretical interpretation of the entropy of an ideal gas. Then, we add correction due to correlations in the form of MI between the locations of the particles. This process preserves the interpretation of the entropy of liquids and solutions in terms of a measure of information (or as an average uncertainty about the locations of the particles). It is well known that the entropy of liquids, any liquids for that matter, is lower than the entropy of a gas. Traditionally, this fact is interpreted in terms of order-disorder. The lower entropy of the liquid is interpreted in terms of higher degree of order compared with that of the gas. However, unlike the transition from a solid to either a liquid, or to a gaseous phase where the order-disorder interpretation works well, the same interpretation would not work for the liquid-gas transition. It is hard, if not impossible, to argue that the liquid phase is more “ordered” than the gaseous phase. In this article, we interpret the lower entropy of liquids in terms of SMI. One outstanding liquid known to be a structured liquid, is water, according to Ben-Naim (2009, 2011). In addition, heavy water, as well as aqueous solutions of simple solutes such as argon or methane, will be discussed in this article.
Opinions of Fine Arts Students about Their Profession and Their Expectations from the Future
Authors: Yeniasır Mustafa , Gökbulut Burak
Published: July 2018

Art emerged the moment humankind existed. Today it is seen that art exists everywhere humans do. It is essential for the future of nations that art and culture is maintained and transferred to next generations. For this reason, developed or developing nations give considerable value to the education of art and conduct studies so as to increase its quality constantly. Fine Arts High Schools which are established for this purpose aim at educating individuals who have self-confidence in society, who think and criticize. In addition, they aim at creating artistic and cultural awareness in students through Fine Arts High Schools and make contribution to the free thinking of individuals in an environment where art is produced. In this study, the opinions of 100 students chosen with convenience sampling who are enrolled at two different art schools (Nicosia Anatolian Fine Arts High School and Atatürk Vocational High School) in Northern Cyprus are consulted as regards the branch of art they are studying and an effort is paid to display where they see themselves in this field in the future. Besides, based on student opinions, an effort is paid to determine the viewpoint of Cypriot Turks towards art and recommendations are made for the development of fine arts education in Northern Cyprus with the obtained results. An evaluation of the results of the research shows that a majority of both female and male students are planning to continue with the branch of art they are studying and that they are satisfied with the education they receive. In addition, it is concluded that the expectations of the majority of students at their entrance to the art school are met and that the students have a negative perception as regards the viewpoint of Cypriot Turkish community towards art.
Customer Segmentation Based on the Electricity Demand Signature: The Andalusian Case
Authors: Camero Andrés , Luque Gabriel , Bravo Yesnier , Alba Enrique
Published: July 2018

A smart meter enables electric utilities to get detailed insights into their customer needs, allowing them to offer tailored products and services, and to succeed in an increasingly competitive market. While in an ideal world companies would treat every customer as an individual, in practice this is rather difficult. For this reason, companies usually have to target smaller groups of customers that are similar. There are several ways of tackling this matter and finding the right approach is a key to success. Therefore, in this study we introduce the electricity demand signature, a novel approach to characterize and cluster electricity customers based on their demand habits. We test our proposal using the electricity demand of 64 buildings in Andalusia, Spain, and compare our results to the state-of-the-art. The results show that our proposal is useful for clustering customers in a meaningful way, and that it is an easy and friendly representation of the behavior of a customer that can be used for further analysis.
Automatic Adaptation of Multi-Loop Wireless Power Transfer to Variable Coupling between Transmit and Receive Coils
Authors: Ryu Kyeongmok , Jeong Jinho
Published: July 2018

In the conventional wireless power transfer (WPT) using magnetic resonance coupling, power transfer efficiency (PTE) exhibits a peak only at a matched distance between transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx). That is, it rapidly degrades if the distance deviates from the matched distance. In order to achieve high PTE over a wide range of the distance, automatic range-adaptation technique is proposed in this work by using multi-loop technique and tunable matching circuit with digital capacitors. For automatic range adaptation, the microcontroller unit (MCU) in Rx runs an algorithm to find optimum loop and capacitance for best PTE based on the received power. Tx and Rx are synchronized by using low power Bluetooth wireless communications. Instead of the conventional relays, microelectromechanical system (MEMS) switches with low loss and high isolation are employed to minimize the power dissipation. The entire WPT system automatically maximize PTE with the distance, achieving high PTE of 80.5% at 30 cm and 29.7% at 100 cm.
Infeasibility Analysis of Half-Wavelength Transmission Systems
Authors: Xu Zheng , Yang Jian , Sheng Nengjin
Published: July 2018

This paper analyzes the infeasibility of half-wavelength transmission systems in the aspects of power-frequency overvoltage and synchronization stability. The circuit model of the long-distance transmission system is established at first for steady-state and transient analysis. The sending-end system and the receiving-end system are both considered in the model. A test system based on an actual transmission line is given to facilitate the description of system characteristics. Based on the circuit model, the resonant transmission distance of the system is found and calculated. Theoretical analysis and numerical calculations are carried out to determine the feasibility transmission distance. It is demonstrated that the transmission distance should be in a certain range, which is larger than the resonant transmission distance, to satisfy the steady-state overvoltage and the small signal synchronization stability as well as the frequency deviation constraints. For transmission distances in the feasible range, the three-phase short circuit fault at a certain point of the transmission line will cause the most serious transient power-frequency overvoltage, and the system is very likely to lose synchronization stability. Considering the transient power-frequency overvoltage and the transient synchronization stability, the half-wavelength transmission system is technically impossible to operate.
Model Analysis of Solar Thermal System with the Effect of Dust Deposition on the Collectors
Authors: Erdenedavaa Purevdalai , Rosato Antonio , Adiyabat Amarbayar , Akisawa Atsushi , Sibilio Sergio , Ciervo Antonio
Published: July 2018

In this study, a TraNsient SYStems (TRNSYS) simulation model for solar thermal systems is developed to assess the potential of solar energy utilization in cold climate zones, such as Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia), which is one of the five cities with the worst air quality in the world. Since air pollution contaminates solar collectors and decreases their efficiency, this model accounts for dust deposition behavior so that the best cleaning time for the collectors can be estimated. The simulation results show that the best cleaning time falls between the middle of January and the beginning of February. In addition, a collector cleaned once during the heating period is estimated to produce 12% more energy compared with a collector that has not been cleaned.
Biological Pretreatment Strategies for Second-Generation Lignocellulosic Resources to Enhance Biogas Production
Authors: Wagner Andreas Otto , Lackner Nina , Mutschlechner Mira , Prem Eva Maria , Markt Rudolf , Illmer Paul
Published: July 2018

With regard to social and environmental sustainability, second-generation biofuel and biogas production from lignocellulosic material provides considerable potential, since lignocellulose represents an inexhaustible, ubiquitous natural resource, and is therefore one important step towards independence from fossil fuel combustion. However, the highly heterogeneous structure and recalcitrant nature of lignocellulose restricts its commercial utilization in biogas plants. Improvements therefore rely on effective pretreatment methods to overcome structural impediments, thus facilitating the accessibility and digestibility of (ligno)cellulosic substrates during anaerobic digestion. While chemical and physical pretreatment strategies exhibit inherent drawbacks including the formation of inhibitory products, biological pretreatment is increasingly being advocated as an environmentally friendly process with low energy input, low disposal costs, and milder operating conditions. Nevertheless, the promising potential of biological pretreatment techniques is not yet fully exploited. Hence, we intended to provide a detailed insight into currently applied pretreatment techniques, with a special focus on biological ones for downstream processing of lignocellulosic biomass in anaerobic digestion.
Critical Resolution and Sample Size of Digital Rock Analysis for Unconventional Reservoirs
Authors: Liu Tong , Jin Xu , Wang Moran
Published: July 2018

Digital rock analysis (DRA) has exhibited strong ability and significant potential to help people to image geological microstructures and understand transport mechanisms in rocks underground, especially for unconventional reservoirs like tight sandstone and shale. More and more new technologies have been developed for higher resolutions, which always come with higher expense. However, the balance between cost (money and time) and benefit has never been figured out quantitatively for these studies. As the cost and benefit are directly related to image resolution and size, this work is focusing on whether there is a critical resolution and sample size when using DRA for accurate enough predictions of rock properties. By numerically changing the digital resolutions of the reconstructed structures from high-resolution micro-computed tomography (CT) scanned tight rock samples, it is found that the permeability predictions get stable when the resolution is higher than a cut-off resolution (COR). Different from physical rocks, the representative element volume (REV) of a digital rock is influenced by the digital resolution. The results of pore-scale modeling indicate that once sample size is larger than the critical sample size and the scan resolution higher than the critical resolution for a given rock, the predicted rock properties by DRA are accurate and representative.
A Novel Method of Kinetic Analysis and Its Application to Pulverized Coal Combustion under Different Oxygen Concentrations
Authors: Gou Xiang , Zhang Qiyan , Liu Yingfan , Wang Zifang , Zou Mulin , Zhao Xuan
Published: July 2018

Currently, many efforts have been made to improve the approach to build kinetic models. Based on mathematical algorithms, a novel method (named DIM method) of kinetic analysis was introduced in detail. A formula combining differential and integral was deduced and applied to the determination of the mechanism function f(α). Subsequently, multivariable linear regression was conducted to simultaneously obtain the apparent activation energy E, pre-exponential factor A, and oxygen concentration exponent n. In the application of pulverized coal combustion under different oxygen concentrations (3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 21%), E, A, and n were calculated as 258,164 J/mol, 6.660 × 1017 s−1, and 3.326, respectively, and the mechanism function f(α) was determined as the Avrami-Erofeev equation. A validation was performed under a 7% oxygen concentration, which shows that the DIM method has a higher accuracy. This work can provide a reference for the study of kinetic analysis.
Stimuli-Responsive Gels
Authors: Kuckling Dirk
Published: July 2018

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The Influence of the Mineralogical Composition of Ultramafic Rocks on Their Engineering Performance: A Case Study from the Veria-Naousa and Gerania Ophiolite Complexes (Greece)
Authors: Giannakopoulou Panagiota P. , Petrounias Petros , Rogkala Aikaterini , Tsikouras Basilios , Stamatis Panagiotis M. , Pomonis Panagiotis , Hatzipanagiotou Konstantin
Published: July 2018

This case study investigates the influence of the mineralogical composition of ultramafic rocks derived from two ophiolite complexes from Greece (Veria-Naousa and Gerania) on their mechanical, physical and physicochemical properties. The investigated lithologies include lherzolite, harzburgite, dunite and olivine-orthopyroxenite with variable degrees of alteration. The ratio of secondary minerals to primary minerals (SEC/PR) of the studied ultramafic rocks shows good correlations with their physical, physicochemical and mechanical properties, suggesting that alteration has a negative effect on the engineering performance of the ultramafic rocks. Among the secondary minerals, serpentine plays the most critical role in determining the moisture content, the total porosity and hence the soundness of the host rocks, due to its phyllosilicate structure, which allows more water/solutions to be captured. The high percentage of serpentine creates surfaces of weakness, and as a result, it decreases the rock strength. The low microtopography of highly serpentinized rocks results in their reduced mechanical performance.
In Search of Factors Negatively Affecting Vaccine Immunity to Pertussis in Preschool Children before the Administration of the First Booster
Authors: Bednarek Anna , Bodajko-Grochowska Anna , Hasiec Barbara , Klepacz Robert , Szczekala Katarzyna , Zarzycka Danuta , Emeryk Andrzej
Published: July 2018

Introduction: The top priority for active immunoprophylaxis of pertussis is the immunisation of infants as they can sometimes develop severe multiple-organ complications. Objectives: The aim of the work is the identification of factors negatively affecting vaccine immunity to pertussis in preschool children prior to the administration of the first booster. Patients and Methods: The research was conducted on 352 children from 4.5 to 5.9 years of age who were hospitalised in the University Children’s Hospital in Lublin (Poland) from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2015. The children taking part in the study had been administered all the mandatory vaccines from their birth to the age of 2 or 2.5 years old according to the Polish Immunisation Program 2008–2009. The immunoenzymatic method ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was applied to assess vaccine immunity to tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), poliomyelitis (IPV), mumps, rubella and measles. The level of vaccine antibodies to hepatitis type B was determined chemilumiscently. Results: The protective antibody titre was not found in 41 (11.65%) children before the administration of the booster. To verify the collective impact of parameters analysed on antibody titre to pertussis, the Generalized Linear Model (GLZ) was used. Gender, type of vaccine, asthma, Hib and mumps antibody titres have been shown to be predictors of vaccine immunity to pertussis. Conclusions: Immunomodulation considered on the example of titre of IgG antibody to pertussis can serve as a useful model of the assessment of development of acquired immunity after mandatory vaccinations.
Performance of Osteoporosis Self-Assessment Tool (OST) in Predicting Osteoporosis—A Review
Authors: Subramaniam Shaanthana , Ima-Nirwana Soelaiman , Chin Kok-Yong
Published: July 2018

Bone health screening plays a vital role in the early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis to prevent fragility fractures among the elderly and high-risk individuals. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), which detects bone mineral density, is the gold standard in diagnosing osteoporosis but is not suitable for screening. Therefore, many screening tools have been developed to identify individuals at risk for osteoporosis and prioritize them for DXA scanning. The Osteoporosis Self-assessment Tool (OST) is among the first tools established to predict osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. It can identify the population at risk for osteoporosis, but its performance varies according to ethnicity, gender, and age. Thus, these factors should be considered to ensure the optimal use of OST worldwide. Overall, OST is a simple and economical screening tool to predict osteoporosis and it can help to optimize the use of DXA.
Model of Point Cloud Data Management System in Big Data Paradigm
Authors: Pajić Vladimir , Govedarica Miro , Amović Mladen
Published: July 2018

Modern geoinformation technologies for collecting and processing data, such as laser scanning or photogrammetry, can generate point clouds with billions of points. They provide abundant information that can be used for different types of analysis. Due to its characteristics, the point cloud is often viewed as a special type of geospatial data. In order to efficiently manage such volumes of data, techniques based on a computer cluster have to be used. The Apache Spark framework has proven to be a solution for efficient processing of large volumes of data. This paper thoroughly examines the representation of point cloud data type using Apache Spark constructs. The common operations over point clouds, range queries and k-nearest neighbors queries (kNN) are implemented using Apache Spark DataFrame Application Programming Interface (API). It enabled the design of point cloud related user defined types (UDT) and user defined functions (UDF). The structure of the point cloud for efficient storing in Big Data key-value stores was analyzed and described. The methods presented in this paper were compared to PostgreSQL RDBMS, and the results were discussed.
Date Palm Trees Root-Derived Endophytes as Fungal Cell Factories for Diverse Bioactive Metabolites
Authors: Ben Mefteh Fedia , Daoud Amal , Chenari Bouket Ali , Thissera Bathini , Kadri Yamina , Cherif-Silini Hafsa , Eshelli Manal , Alenezi Faizah N. , Vallat Armelle , Oszako Tomasz , Kadri Adel , Ros-García José María , Rateb Mostafa E. , Gharsallah Neji , Belbahri Lassaad
Published: July 2018

Endophytic fungi of healthy and brittle leaf diseased (BLD) date palm trees (Phoenix dactylifera L.) represent a promising source of bioactive compounds with biomedical, industrial, and pharmaceutical applications. The fungal endophytes Penicillium citrinum isolate TDPEF34, and Geotrichum candidum isolate TDPEF20 from healthy and BLD date palm trees, respectively, proved very effective in confrontation assays against three pathogenic bacteria, including two Gram-positive bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and Enterococcus faecalis (Ef), and one Gram-negative bacterium Salmonella enterica (St). They also inhibited the growth of three fungi Trichoderma sp. (Ti), Fusarium sporotrichioides (Fs), Trichoderma sp. (Ts). Additionally, their volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were shown to be in part responsible for the inhibition of Ti and Ts and could account for the full inhibition of Fs. Therefore, we have explored their potential as fungal cell factories for bioactive metabolites production. Four extracts of each endophyte were prepared using different solvent polarities, ethanol (EtOH), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), hexane (Hex), and methanol (MetOH). Both endophyte species showed varying degrees of inhibition of the bacterial and fungal pathogens according to the solvent used. These results suggest a good relationship between fungal bioactivities and their produced secondary metabolites. Targeting the discovery of potential anti-diabetic, anti-hemolysis, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and cytotoxic activities, endophytic extracts showed promising results. The EtOAc extract of G. candidum displayed IC50 value comparable to the positive control diclofenac sodium in the anti-inflammatory assays. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using α,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene bleaching, reducing power (RP), and 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonique) (ABTS) radical scavenging assays. The findings revealed strong anti-oxidant power with an IC50 of 177.55 µg/mL for G. candidum EtOAc extract using DPPH assay, probably due to high polyphenol and flavonoid content in both fungal extracts. Finally, LC-HRMS (Liquid Chromatography–High Resolution Mass Spectrometry) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry) analysis of G. candidum and P. citrinum extracts revealed an impressive arsenal of compounds with previously reported biological activities, partly explaining the obtained results. Finally, LC-HRMS analysis indicated the presence of new fungal metabolites that have never been reported, which represent good candidates to follow for the discovery of new bioactive molecules.
Radiation Sensitivity of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Isolated from Breast Tissue
Authors: Baaße Annemarie , Machoy Friederike , Juerß Dajana , Baake Jana , Stang Felix , Reimer Toralf , Krapohl Björn Dirk , Hildebrandt Guido
Published: July 2018

Within their niche, adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are essential for homeostasis as well as for regeneration. Therefore, the interest of physicians is to use ADSCs as a tool for radiation oncology and regenerative medicine. To investigate related risks, this study analyses the radiation response of adult stem cells isolated from the adipose tissue of the female breast. To avoid donor-specific effects, ADSCs isolated from breast reduction mammoplasties of 10 donors were pooled and used for the radiobiological analysis. The clonogenic survival fraction assay was used to classify the radiation sensitivity in comparison to a more radiation-sensitive (ZR-75-1), moderately sensitive (MCF-7), and resistant (MCF10A) cell lines. Afterwards, cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of irradiation on ADSCs were investigated. On the basis of clonogenic cell survival rates of ADSCs after irradiation, we assign ADSCs an intermediate radiation sensitivity. Furthermore, a high repair capacity of double-strand breaks is related to an altered cell cycle arrest and increased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor p21. ADSCs isolated from breast tissue exhibit intermediate radiation sensitivity, caused by functional repair mechanisms. Therefore, we propose ADSCs to be a promising tool in radiation oncology.
Human 3D Cultures as Models for Evaluating Magnetic Nanoparticle CNS Cytotoxicity after Short- and Repeated Long-Term Exposure
Authors: De Simone Uliana , Roccio Marianna , Gribaldo Laura , Spinillo Arsenio , Caloni Francesca , Coccini Teresa
Published: July 2018

Since nanoparticles (NPs) can translocate to the brain and impact the highly vulnerable central nervous system (CNS), novel in vitro tools for the assessment of NP-induced neurotoxicity are advocated. In this study, two types of CNS spheroids have been developed from human D384 astrocyte- and SH-SY5Y neuronal-like cells, and optimized in combination with standard assays (viability readout and cell morphology) to test neurotoxic effects caused by Fe3O4NPs, as NP-model, after short- (24–48 h; 1–100µg/ml) and long-term repeated exposure (30days; 0.1–25µg/ml). Short-term exposure of 3D-spheroids to Fe3O4NP induced cytotoxicity at 10 µg/mL in astrocytes and 25 µg/mL neurons. After long-term repeated dose regimen, spheroids showed concentration- and time-dependent cell mortality at 10 µg/mL for D384 and 0.5 µg/mL for SH-SY5Y, indicating a higher susceptibility of neurons than astrocytes. Both spheroid types displayed cell disaggregation after the first week of treatment at ≥0.1 µg/mL and becoming considerably evident at higher concentrations and over time. Recreating the 3D-spatial environment of the CNS allows cells to behave in vitro more closely to the in vivo situations, therefore providing a model that can be used as a stand-alone test or as a part of integrated testing strategies. These models could drive an improvement in the species-relevant predictivity of toxicity testing.
Senescence Induces Dysfunctions in Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Osteoblasts by Interfering Translational Machinery and Bioenergetic Homeostasis
Authors: Wang Guo-Shou , Shen Yung-Shuen , Chou Wen-Yi , Tang Chih-Hsin , Yeh Hung-I , Wang Li-Yu , Yen Juei-Yu , Huang Te-Yang , Liu Shih-Chia , Yang Chen-Yu , Lin Ting-Yi , Chen Chi , Wang Shih-Wei
Published: July 2018

Age-related bone diseases are partly caused by impaired bone integrity, which are closely related to osteoblasts’ activity and angiogenesis. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are the initiators of angiogenesis and found to have senescent-induced dysfunctions. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of senescence in EPCs on osteogenesis and angiogenesis. Human primary EPCs and a murine osteoblast cell line (MC3T3-E1) are utilized in this study. The senescence of EPCs are induced by serial passages. When co-cultured with senescent EPCs, the osteoblasts demonstrate weakened alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and mineral deposition. On the other hand, osteoblast-induced migration decreases in senescent EPCs. As for the intracellular alterations of senescent EPCs, the activation of Akt/mTOR/p70S6K pathway, MnSOD and catalase are diminished. In contrast, the level of reactive oxygen species are significantly higher in senescent EPCs. Furthermore, senescent EPCs has decreased level intracellular ATP level and coupling efficiency for oxidative phosphorylation while the non-mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis are elevated. The senescence of EPCs impairs the functions of both osteoblasts and EPCs, suggesting EPCs’ role in the pathophysiology of age-related bone diseases. Targeting the alterations found in this study could be potential treatments.
Analysis of the Coding and Non-Coding RNA Transcriptomes in Response to Bell Pepper Chilling
Authors: Zuo Jinhua , Wang Yunxiang , Zhu Benzhong , Luo Yunbo , Wang Qing , Gao Lipu
Published: July 2018

Increasing evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) have roles during biotic and abiotic stress, though their exact contributions remain unclear. To explore their biological functions in response to chilling in bell pepper, we examined their accumulation profiles by deep sequencing and identified 380 lncRNAs, 36 circRNAs, 18 miRNAs, and 4128 differentially expressed mRNAs in the chilled versus the non-chilled fruit. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses revealed differentially expressed genes and putative ncRNA targets, including transcription factors of multiple classes, such as myeloblastosis (MYB), basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH), and ethylene response factor (ERF) transcription factors (TFs), enzymes involved in bio-oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation (serine/threonine-protein kinase, polyphenol oxidase, catalase, peroxidase, lipoxygenase, and ATPase), and cell wall metabolism-related enzymes (beta-galactosidase, pectate lyase, pectinesterase, and polygalacturonase). On the basis of the accumulation profiles, a network of putatively interacting RNAs associated with bell pepper chilling was developed, which pointed to ncRNAs that could provide the foundation for further developing a more refined understanding of the molecular response to chilling injury.
Senescent Microvesicles: A Novel Advance in Molecular Mechanisms of Atherosclerotic Calcification
Authors: Alique Matilde , Ramírez-Carracedo Rafael , Bodega Guillermo , Carracedo Julia , Ramírez Rafael
Published: July 2018

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease that causes the most heart attacks and strokes in humans, is the leading cause of death in the developing world; its principal clinical manifestation is coronary artery disease. The development of atherosclerosis is attributed to the aging process itself (biological aging) and is also associated with the development of chronic diseases (premature aging). Both aging processes produce an increase in risk factors such as oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction and proinflammatory cytokines (oxi-inflamm-aging) that might generate endothelial senescence associated with damage in the vascular system. Cellular senescence increases microvesicle release as carriers of molecular information, which contributes to the development and calcification of atherosclerotic plaque, as a final step in advanced atherosclerotic plaque formation. Consequently, this review aims to summarize the information gleaned to date from studies investigating how the senescent extracellular vesicles, by delivering biological signalling, contribute to atherosclerotic calcification.