bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clustering-Based Threshold Model for Condition Assessment of Concrete Bridge Decks with Ground-Penetrating Radar
Authors: Dinh Kien , Zayed Tarek , Moufti Sami , Shami Ahmad , Jabri Ahmad , Abouhamad Mona , Dawood Thikra
Published: September 2015

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been extensively studied for condition assessment of concrete bridge decks in North America. Although several methods for analyzing GPR data have been proposed, the commonly accepted method evaluates the condition of concrete bridge decks on the basis of the difference between reflection amplitudes of the top rebar layer. It is assumed in the method that strong reflection indicates sound concrete, whereas the area with high-amplitude attenuation is associated with concrete corrosion. The final result is a contour map of reflection amplitude in decibel scale with the thresholds selected arbitrarily to define the severity of concrete deterioration. Because subjective determination of threshold values may lead to inconsistency in the result obtained, this paper proposes a robust method for resolving that issue. Specifically, after depth correction was performed for top rebar amplitudes, on the basis of K-means clustering technique these amplitude data were grouped into a number of condition categories. Through two case studies in North America, the methodology was implemented and compared with the results provided by other technologies, namely, concrete resistivity, half-cell potential, and laboratory chloride content analysis. The implementation showed that while the proposed method was simple to employ, it still provided reasonable results that were in line with the outputs provided by the other techniques.
Discrete Finite Element Method Application for Analysis of Unreinforced-Masonry Underground Structures
Authors: Mamaghani Iraj H. P.
Published: September 2015

Unreinforced-masonry underground structures are composed of a finite number of distinct interacting blocks that have length scales relatively comparable with the underground openings of interest. Therefore, these structures are ideal candidates for modeling as discrete systems instead of as continuous systems. The discrete finite element method (DFEM) developed by the author to model discontinuous media consisting of blocks of arbitrary shapes was adopted for the static analysis of unreinforced masonry underground structures. The developed DFEM was based on the principles of the finite element method incorporating contact elements. The DFEM considers blocks as subdomains and represents them by solid elements. Contact elements, which are far superior to joint or interface elements, are used to model block interactions such as sliding or separation. In this study, the DFEM is briefly reviewed; then, through some illustrative examples, the applicability of the DFEM to the analysis of unreinforced-masonry underground structures is examined and discussed. It is shown that the DFEM provides an efficient tool for researchers and practical engineers in designing, analyzing, and studying the behavior of unreinforced masonry underground structures under static loading.
Multiphysics modeling and experimental verification of ultra-fast electro-mechanical actuators
Authors: Bissal Ara , Magnusson Jesper , Salinas Ener , Engdahl Göran
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a multi-physics computational tool has been developed to accurately model and build high performance ultra-fast actuators. The research methodology is based on a finite element method model coupled with a circuit model. Electromagnetic, thermal, mechanical, and algebraic equations are implemented in Comsol Multiphysics and verified with laboratory experiments of a built prototype. A simplified model is preferred as long as its underlying assumptions hold. However, in the presence of large current and force densities, nonlinearities such as deformations may occur. Such phenomena can only be captured by the use of the developed comprehensive multi-physics simulation model. Although this model is computationally demanding, it was shown to have an accuracy of at least 95% when compared with experiments.
Dual elliptical patch antenna design on low cost epoxy resin polymer substrate material
Authors: Alam T. , Faruque M.R.I. , Islam M.T. , Samsuzzaman M.
Published: September 2015

A new dual elliptical patch antenna is proposed for wideband wireless application. The proposed antenna achieved wideband using internal and external parasitic radiators. The microstrip transmission line fed antenna is consisted of two elliptical radiating patches with two external annular parasitic elements and a partial ground plane. The proposed antenna is printed on epoxy resin reinforced woven glass dielectric material. The antenna structure is planar, and its design is simple and easy to fabricate. Experimental result shows that the designed antenna has achieved an impedance bandwidth of 7.28 GHz (VSWR ≤ 2) from 5.72 GHz to 13.0 GHz. Moreover, the antenna shows good radiation efficiency with accacptable radiation patterns within the operating frequency band.
EM simulation for a composite scattering problem
Authors: Wei Yang
Published: September 2015

The overall electromagnetic (EM) scattering from a composite problem involving ship and sea is divided into two parts. For the scattering from the extra-large scale rough sea surface, it can be summed by the masses of sub-facets to avoid the huge computation complexity of sea surface global modelling. For the difference field scattering from the large scale three-dimensional (3D) ship and its underlying sea surface, the physical optics and shooting bouncing ray method are combined to rapidly compute their scatterings. Furthermore, the image theory and its some modifications are proposed to account for the EM interactions between ship and sea surface in order to avoid modeling the nearly infinite sea surface. Only the ship needs to be thus modeled and simulated in this paper. Therefore, the proposed method can achieve a good accuracy with minimal computation resources for the composite scattering problem.
Fusion of multiple parameters of signals obtained by vector magnetic flux observation for evaluation of stress loaded steel samples
Authors: Psuj Grzegorz
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a multiple signals features data fusion approach was performed in order to increase the reliability of assessment of the damage state of the non-oriented electrical steel elements. The signals obtained by a transducer with two sensitivity axes operating under rotating AC field for samples cut out from the steel sheet at three different angles were utilized to create database. Several signals features were considered in the process of definition of feature vector corresponding to the damage stage. Next, the database was transformed in order to abstract the information content. Finally, the function combining transformed multiple parameters was defined allowing the damage stage assessment.
Trolleys and Transplants: Derailing the Distinction Between Doing and Allowing
Authors: Duncan Emma
Published: September 2015

Two key elements in Judith Jarvis Thomson’s most recent response to the famed Trolley Problem produce a tension that threatens to undermine her account. First, in a reversal of part of her 1985 position, Thomson now argues that a bystander is not permitted to divert a threat. Second, her use of the Doctrine of Doing and Allowing (DDA) to explain intuitions about the permissibility of threat diversion conflicts with her constraint of an agent’s available options to the present tense, which is designed to prevent past bad acts from justifying bad acts in the present. I contend that the conflict between DDA and the tense constraint creates an inconsistency in Thomson’s current position and supports the conclusion that no one, including the trolley driver, is permitted to turn the trolley. In order to resolve this conflict, Thomson must either abandon one of the core features of her explanation or reject a fundamental intuition driving the Trolley Problem, that the driver may divert the trolley to save lives.
From Pandemic Preparedness to Biofuel Production: Tobacco Finds Its Biotechnology Niche in North America
Authors: Powell Joshua
Published: September 2015

In 2012 scientists funded by the United States Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) produced 10 million doses of influenza vaccine in tobacco in a milestone deadline of one month. Recently the experimental antibody cocktail Zmapp™, also produced in tobacco, has shown promise as an emergency intervention therapeutic against Ebola virus. These two examples showcase how collaborative efforts between government, private industry and academia are applying plant biotechnology to combat pathogenic agents. Opportunities now exist repurposing tobacco expression systems for exciting new applications in synthetic biology, biofuels production and industrial enzyme production. As plant-produced biotherapeutics become more mainstream, government funding agencies need to be cognizant of the idea that many plant-produced biologicals are often safer, cheaper, and just as efficacious as traditionally used expression systems.
On-FarmWelfare Assessment Protocol for Adult Dairy Goats in Intensive Production Systems
Authors: Battini Monica , Stilwell George , Vieira Ana , Barbieri Sara , Canali Elisabetta , Mattiello Silvana
Published: September 2015

Within the European AWIN project, a protocol for assessing dairy goats’ welfareon the farm was developed. Starting from a literature review, a prototype includinganimal-based indicators covering four welfare principles and 12 welfare criteria was set up.The prototype was tested in 60 farms for validity, reliability, and feasibility. After testing theprototype, a two-level assessment protocol was proposed in order to increase acceptabilityamong stakeholders. The first level offers a more general overview of the welfare status,based on group assessment of a few indicators (e.g., hair coat condition, latency to thefirst contact test, severe lameness, Qualitative Behavior Assessment), with no or minimalhandling of goats and short assessment time required. The second level starts if welfareAnimals 2015, 5 935problems are encountered in the first level and adds a comprehensive and detailed individualevaluation (e.g., Body Condition Score, udder asymmetry, overgrown claws), supported byan effective sampling strategy. The assessment can be carried out using the AWIN Goatapp. The app results in a clear visual output, which provides positive feedback on welfareconditions in comparison with a benchmark of a reference population. The protocol maybe a valuable tool for both veterinarians and technicians and a self-assessment instrumentfor farmers.
Status of the High Average Power Diode-Pumped Solid State Laser Development at HiLASE
Authors: Novák Ondřej , Miura Taisuke , Smrž Martin , Chyla Michal , Nagisetty Siva , Mužík Jiří , Linnemann Jens , Turčičová Hana , Jambunathan Venkatesan , Slezák Ondřej , Sawicka-Chyla Magdalena , Pilař Jan , Bonora Stefano , Divoký Martin , Měsíček Jakub , Pranovich Alina , Sikocinski Pawel , Huynh Jaroslav , Severová Patricie , Navrátil Petr , Vojna David , Horáčková Lucie , Mann Klaus , Lucianetti Antonio , Endo Akira , Rostohar Danijela , Mocek Tomáš
Published: September 2015

An overview of the latest developments of kilowatt-level diode pumped solid state lasers for advanced applications at the HiLASE Centre is presented. An overview of subcontracted and in-house-developed laser beamlines is presented. The aim of development is to build kW-class beamlines delivering picosecond pulses between 1- and 100-kHz repetition rates and high-energy nanosecond pulses at 10 Hz. The picosecond beamlines are based on Yb:YAG thin-disk amplifiers and chirped pulse amplification. The current status of the beamlines’ performance is reported. The advantages of zero-phonon line and pulsed pumping are demonstrated with respect to efficiency, thin disk temperature and beam quality. New diagnostics methods supporting the high average power lasers’ development, such as the high-resolution spectroscopy of Yb-doped materials, in situ thin disk deformation measurements, single-shot M2 measurement, realization of wavefront correction by a deformable mirror and the laser performance of a new mixed garnet ceramics, are described. The energetic, thermal and fluid-mechanical numerical modeling for the optimization of the multi-slab amplifiers is also described.
A Near-Hover Adaptive Attitude Control Strategy of a Ducted Fan Micro Aerial Vehicle with Actuator Dynamics
Authors: Sheng Shouzhao , Sun Chenwu
Published: September 2015

The aerodynamic parameters of ducted fan micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) are difficult and expensive to precisely measure and are, therefore, not available in most cases. Furthermore, the actuator dynamics with risks of potentially destabilizing the overall system are important but often neglected consideration factors in the control system design of ducted fan MAVs. This paper presents a near-hover adaptive attitude control strategy of a prototype ducted fan MAV with actuator dynamics and without any prior information about the behavior of the MAV. The proposed strategy consists of an online parameter estimation algorithm and an adaptive gain scheduling algorithm, with the former accommodating parametric uncertainties, and the latter approximately eliminating the coupling among axes and guaranteeing the control quality of the MAV. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is verified numerically and experimentally.
Histone Modifications, Modifiers and Readers in Melanoma Resistance to Targeted and Immune Therapy
Authors: Gallagher Stuart , Tiffen Jessamy , Hersey Peter
Published: September 2015

The treatment of melanoma has been revolutionized by new therapies targeting MAPK signaling or the immune system. Unfortunately these therapies are hindered by either primary resistance or the development of acquired resistance. Resistance mechanisms involving somatic mutations in genes associated with resistance have been identified in some cases of melanoma, however, the cause of resistance remains largely unexplained in other cases. The importance of epigenetic factors targeting histones and histone modifiers in driving the behavior of melanoma is only starting to be unraveled and provides significant opportunity to combat the problems of therapy resistance. There is also an increasing ability to target these epigenetic changes with new drugs that inhibit these modifications to either prevent or overcome resistance to both MAPK inhibitors and immunotherapy. This review focuses on changes in histones, histone reader proteins and histone positioning, which can mediate resistance to new therapeutics and that can be targeted for future therapies.
PEG1000-Based Dicationic Acidic Ionic Liquid Catalyzed One-Pot Synthesis of 4-Aryl-3-Methyl-1-Phenyl-1H-Benzo[h]pyrazolo [3,4-b]quinoline-5,10-Diones via Multicomponent Reactions
Authors: Ren Yi-Ming , Jin Shuo , Yan Hai-Jun , Zhang Ze
Published: September 2015

A novel and green approach for efficient and rapid synthesis of 4-aryl-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-benzo[h]pyrazolo[3,4-b]quinoline-5,10-diones has been accomplished by the one-pot condensation reaction of aromatic aldehydes, 3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-5-amine and 2-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione using PEG1000-based dicationic acidic ionic liquid (PEG1000-DAIL) as a catalyst was reported. Recycling studies have shown that the PEG1000-DAIL can be readily recovered and reused several times without significant loss of activity. The key advantages are the short reaction time, high yields, simple workup, and recovered catalyst.
Design Considerations for Wireless Charging Systems with an Analysis of Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhenshi , Wei Xuezhe
Published: September 2015

Three criteria, including charging time, effective charging capacity and charging energy efficiency, are introduced to evaluate the CC (constant current) and CC/CV (constant current/constant voltage) charging strategies. Because the CC strategy presents a better performance and most resonant topologies have the CC characteristic, the CC strategy is more suitable for the design of wireless charging systems than the CC/CV strategy. Then, the state space model of the receiver is built to study the system dynamic characteristics, and the design of nonuse output filter capacitors is proposed, which can improve the system power density and avoid the drop in efficiency caused by capacitor degradation. At last, an electrochemical impedance spectrum (EIS) based analysis method is introduced to validate that the design without output filter capacitors has no effects on the battery characteristics when the charging frequency is higher than 460 Hz. A prototype is fabricated to verify our research results.
A New Approach for Modeling Darrieus-Type Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Rotors Using Electrical Equivalent Circuit Analogy: Basis of Theoretical Formulations and Model Development
Authors: Tchakoua Pierre , Wamkeue René , Ouhrouche Mohand , Tameghe Tommy , Ekemb Gabriel
Published: September 2015

Models are crucial in the engineering design process because they can be used for both the optimization of design parameters and the prediction of performance. Thus, models can significantly reduce design, development and optimization costs. This paper proposes a novel equivalent electrical model for Darrieus-type vertical axis wind turbines (DTVAWTs). The proposed model was built from the mechanical description given by the Paraschivoiu double-multiple streamtube model and is based on the analogy between mechanical and electrical circuits. This work addresses the physical concepts and theoretical formulations underpinning the development of the model. After highlighting the working principle of the DTVAWT, the step-by-step development of the model is presented. For assessment purposes, simulations of aerodynamic characteristics and those of corresponding electrical components are performed and compared.
The Sensing Internet—A Discussion on Its Impact on Rural Areas
Authors: Heller Alfred
Published: September 2015

This paper is based on the experience of introducing wireless sensor networks (WSNs) into the building industry in Denmark and in a rural area of Greenland. There are very real advantages in the application of the technology and its consequences for the life cycle operation of the building sector. Sensor networks can be seen as an important part of the Internet of Things and may even constitute an Internet of Sensors, since the communication layers can differ from the Internet standards. The current paper describes the case for application, followed by a discussion of the observed adaptive advantages and consequences of the technology. Essentially, WSNs constitute a highly sophisticated technology that is more robust in a rural context due to its extremely simple installation procedures (plug and play) allowing the use of local less-skilled labour, and the possibility of reconfiguring and repurposing its use remotely.
Assessment of the in Vitro Antithrombotic Properties of Sardine (Sardina pilchardus) Fillet Lipids and Cod Liver Oil
Authors: Morphis Gregory , Kyriazopoulou Aggeliki , Nasopoulou Constantina , Sioriki Eleni , Demopoulos Constantinos , Zabetakis Ioannis
Published: September 2015

The aim of the current study was to compare the biological activities of total polar lipids (TPL) and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) polar lipid fractions of sardine fillet and cod liver oil against atherogenesis. TPL and TLC polar lipid fractions obtained from these two sources were assessed for their ability to inhibit the platelet-activating-factor (PAF)-induced platelet aggregation (PAF-antagonists) or to induce platelet aggregation (PAF-agonists), since PAF plays a crucial role in the initiation and development of atherosclerosis. This study focused on the polar lipids since previous studies have underlined that the antithrombotic properties of foodstuffs are mainly attributed to polar lipid micro-constituents. TPL of sardine fillet induced platelet aggregation, while TPL of cod liver had a bimodal effect on platelets. TLC polar lipid fractions of both samples exhibited in vitro aggregatory and inhibitory activity towards platelets. However, TLC sardine polar lipid fractions showed stronger in vitro antithrombotic activities than the cod liver oil ones. These data constitute evidence of the putative contribution of fish polar lipids against cardiovascular diseases, underling firstly the beneficial effect of fish and fish lipids as functional foodstuffs against atherogenesis and secondly the more important role of sardine polar lipids as opposed to cod liver oil.
Framing and Feedback in Social Dilemmas with Partners and Strangers
Authors: Cox Caleb , Stoddard Brock
Published: September 2015

We study framing effects in repeated social dilemmas by comparing payoff-equivalent Give- and Take-framed public goods games under varying matching mechanisms (Partners or Strangers) and levels of feedback (Aggregate or Individual). In the Give-framed game, players contribute to a public good, while in the Take-framed game, players take from an existing public good. The results show Take framing and Individual-level feedback lead to more extreme behavior (free-riding and full cooperation), especially for Partners. These results suggest Take framing and Individual-level feedback increase the variability of cooperation.
Simultaneous Degradation of Estrone, 17β-Estradiol and 17α-Ethinyl Estradiol in an Aqueous UV/H2O2 System
Authors: Ma Xiaoyan , Zhang Chao , Deng Jing , Song Yali , Li Qingsong , Guo Yaping , Li Cong
Published: September 2015

UV/H2O2, which is an advanced treatment technology used to reduce multiple contaminants, is effective in potable water treatment. Simultaneous degradation effects and kinetics of three types of coexisting micropollutant estrogens (steroid estrogens, SEs), including estrone (E1), 17β-estradiol (E2) and 17α-ethinyl estradiol (EE2), in deionized water were studied. Experiments were carried out with ultraviolet-C (UVC) radiation, together with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), in a cylinder photoreactor. The results demonstrated that the degradation processes of all of the estrogens strongly fit first-order kinetics. Single solutions of E1, E2 and EE2 showed higher degradation rates and removal efficiencies under the same reaction conditions compared with those under mixed conditions. Coexisting combinations of estrogens were put into the UV/H2O2 system to estimate their possible competitive influences on each other by examining their removal efficiencies and reaction rate constant, k, values. E1 is predominantly reduced rapidly during the competition, while the presence of other estrogens has negligible impacts on E1; however, the degradation of E2 and EE2 is affected by the competitive background, not in relation to the types but to the existing amounts. In the UV/H2O2 system, photocatalysis of the estrogens can stably produce an intermediate X, with the highest quantity coming from E1, while considerably lower quantities are obtained from E2 and EE2.
Are Informing Knowledge and Supportive Attitude Enough for Tobacco Control? A Latent Class Analysis of Cigarette Smoking Patterns among Medical Teachers in China
Authors: Niu Lu , Luo Dan , Silenzio Vincent , Xiao Shuiyuan , Tian Yongquan
Published: September 2015

Background: This study is one part of a five-year tobacco-control project in China, which aimed to gain insight into the smoking behavior, knowledge, and attitudes among medical teachers in China. Methods: In May 2010, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among medical teachers of Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, China. Results: A total number of 682 medical teachers completed the surveys. Latent class analysis indicated the sample of smoking patterns was best represented by three latent subgroups of smoking consumption severity levels. Most respondents were informed of smoking related knowledge, but lack of knowledge on smoking cessation. Most of them held a supportive attitude towards their responsibilities among tobacco control, as well as the social significance of smoking. However, both smoking related knowledge and attitude were not correlated with severity of smoking consumption among medical teachers. Conclusion: The smoking prevalence among medical teachers in China remains high. Programs on smoking cessation training are required. Future study should also develop targeted interventions for subgroups of smokers based on smoking consumption. Persistent and effective anti-tobacco efforts are needed to achieve the goals of creating smoke-free campuses and hospitals.
Healthy Aging Promotion through Neuroscientific Information-Based Strategies
Authors: Seinfeld Sofia , Sanchez-Vives Maria
Published: September 2015

To ensure the well-being of a rapidly growing elderly population, it is fundamental to find strategies to foster healthy brain aging. With this intention, we designed a program of scientific-based lectures aimed at dissemination by established neuroscientists about brain function, brain plasticity and how lifestyle influences the brain. We also carried out a pilot study on the impact of the lectures on attendees. The objective was to provide information to elderly people in order to encourage them to identify unhealthy and healthy daily habits, and more importantly, to promote behavioral changes towards healthy brain aging. Here we report on our experience. In order to determine the impact of the lectures in the daily routine of the attendees, we asked them to fill out questionnaires. Preliminary results indicate that neuroscientific information-based strategies can be a useful method to have a positive impact on the lives of elderly, increase their awareness on how to improve brain function and promote positive lifestyle modifications. Furthermore, based on self-reported data, we also found that through this strategy it is possible to promote behavioral changes related to nutrition, sleep, and realization of physical and cognitively stimulating activities. Finally, based on the results obtained, the importance of promoting self-efficacy and the empowerment of the older populations is highlighted.
Secreted Frizzled-Related Protein Promotes Bone Regeneration by Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Katagiri Wataru , Osugi Masashi , Kawai Takamasa , Hibi Hideharu
Published: September 2015

Secreted frizzled-related protein (sFRP)-3 is a negative regulator of Wnt signaling in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The present study investigated the effects sFRP-3 on osteogenic differentiation by assessing osteogenic gene expression in hMSCs in vitro and by examining bone regeneration in a rat bone defect model. sFRP-3 treatment induced osteogenic differentiation in hMSCs as determined by alkaline phosphatase, collagen type I, osteocalcin, and Runt-related transcription factor 2 gene expression. hMSCs with or without sFRP-3 were implanted into a rat calvarial bone defect; a radiographic analysis by micro-computed tomography and histological analysis 4 and 8 weeks after implantation showed greater bone regeneration in the sFRP(+) than in the sFRP(−) group. These results suggest that modulation of Wnt signaling contributes to osteogenic differentiation in hMSCs. Specifically, sFRP-3 induces osteoblastic differentiation of cultured MSCs and bone regeneration in a calvarial bone defect, suggesting that it can be a useful agent for the treatment of bone defects.
Alkyl Chain Growth on a Transition Metal Center: How Does Iron Compare to Ruthenium and Osmium?
Authors: Sainna Mala , De Visser Sam
Published: September 2015

Industrial Fischer-Tropsch processes involve the synthesis of hydrocarbons usually on metal surface catalysts. On the other hand, very few homogeneous catalysts are known to perform a Fischer-Tropsch style of reaction. In recent work, we established the catalytic properties of a diruthenium-platinum carbene complex, [(CpRu)2(μ2-H) (μ2-NHCH3)(μ3-C)PtCH3(P(CH3)3)2](CO)n+ with n = 0, 2 and Cp = η5-C5(CH3)5, and showed it to react efficiently by initial hydrogen atom transfer followed by methyl transfer to form an alkyl chain on the Ru-center. In particular, the catalytic efficiency was shown to increase after the addition of two CO molecules. As such, this system could be viewed as a potential homogeneous Fischer-Tropsch catalyst. Herein, we have engineered the catalytic center of the catalyst and investigated the reactivity of trimetal carbene complexes of the same type using iron, ruthenium and osmium at the central metal scaffold. The work shows that the reactivity should increase from diosmium to diruthenium to diiron; however, a non-linear trend is observed due to multiple factors contributing to the individual barrier heights. We identified all individual components of these reaction steps in detail and established the difference in reactivity of the various complexes.
Preparation, Characterization and Evaluation of α-Tocopherol Succinate-Modified Dextran Micelles as Potential Drug Carriers
Authors: Yu Jingmou , Zhou Yufeng , Chen Wencong , Ren Jin , Zhang Lifang , Lu Lu , Luo Gan , Huang Hao
Published: September 2015

In the present study, α-tocopherol succinate (TOS) conjugated dextran (Dex-TOS) was synthesized and characterized by fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and fluorescence spectroscopy. Dex-TOS could form nanoscaled micelles in aqueous medium. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) is 0.0034 mg/mL. Doxorubicin (Dox) was selected as a model drug. Dox-loaded Dex-TOS (Dex-TOS/Dox) micelles were prepared by a dialysis method. The size of Dex-TOS/Dox micelles increased from 295 to 325 nm with the Dox-loading content increasing from 4.21% to 8.12%. The Dex-TOS/Dox micelles were almost spherical in shape, as determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). In vitro release demonstrated that Dox release from the micelles was in a sustained manner for up to 96 h. The cellular uptake of Dex-TOS/Dox micelles in human nasopharyngeal epidermoid carcinoma (KB) cells is an endocytic process determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Moreover, Dex-TOS/Dox micelles exhibited comparable cytotoxicity in contrast with doxorubicin hydrochloride. These results suggested that Dex-TOS micelles could be a promising carrier for drug delivery.
Ultrathin Gas Permeable Oxide Membranes for Chemical Sensing: Nanoporous Ta2O5 Test Study
Authors: Imbault Alexander , Wang Yue , Kruse Peter , Strelcov Evgheni , Comini Elisabetta , Sberveglieri Giorgio , Kolmakov Andrei
Published: September 2015

Conductometric gas sensors made of gas permeable metal oxide ultrathin membranes can combine the functions of a selective filter, preconcentrator, and sensing element and thus can be particularly promising for the active sampling of diluted analytes. Here we report a case study of the electron transport and gas sensing properties of such a membrane made of nanoporous Ta2O5. These membranes demonstrated a noticeable chemical sensitivity toward ammonia, ethanol, and acetone at high temperatures above 400 °C. Different from traditional thin films, such gas permeable, ultrathin gas sensing elements can be made suspended enabling advanced architectures of ultrasensitive analytical systems operating at high temperatures and in harsh environments.
Identification of Minor Benzoylated 4-Phenylcoumarins from a Mammea neurophylla Bark Extract
Authors: Dang Bach , Rouger Caroline , Litaudon Marc , Richomme Pascal , Séraphin Denis , Derbré Séverine
Published: September 2015

Through dereplication analysis, seven known Mammea coumarins were identified in a fraction obtained from Mammea neurophylla dichloromethane bark extract selected for its ability to prevent advanced glycation end-product (AGE) formation. Among them, a careful examination of the NMR dataset of pedilanthocoumarin B led to a structural revision. Inspection of LC-DAD-MSn chromatograms allowed us to predict the presence of four new compounds, which were further isolated. Using spectroscopic methods (1H-, 13C- and 2D-NMR, HRMS, UV), these compounds were identified as new benzoyl substituted 4-phenylcoumarins (iso-pedilanthocoumarin B and neurophyllol C) and 4-(1-acetoxypropyl)coumarins cyclo F (ochrocarpins H and I).
In Vitro Antioxidant Activities and in Vivo Anti-Hypoxic Activity of the Edible Mushroom Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Sing. Chaidam
Authors: Li Hong-Ji , Chen Hai-Yan , Fan Lin-Lin , Jiao Zhi-Hua , Chen Qi-He , Jiao Ying-Chun
Published: September 2015

With the rising awareness of a healthy lifestyle, natural functional foods have gained much interest as promising alternatives to synthetic functional drugs. Recently, wild Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Sing. Chaidam has been found and artificially cultivated for its thick fresh body and excellent taste, with its antioxidant and anti-hypoxic abilities unknown. In this work, the antioxidant potential of its methanolic, 55% ethanolic, aqueous extracts and crude polysaccharide was evaluated in different systems. The results showed that polysaccharide was the most effective in scavenging ability on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radicals, metal chelating activity and reducing power, with EC50 values of 0.02, 2.79, 1.29, and 1.82 mg/mL, respectively. Therefore, we further studied the anti-hypoxic activity of crude polysaccharide. The results turned out that polysaccharide (300 mg/kg) prolonged the survival time, decreased the blood urea nitrogen and lactic acid content as well as increased the liver glycogen significantly, compared with the blank control and the commercialized product Hongjingtian (p < 0.05). With such excellent activities, we purified the polysaccharide and analyzed its molecular weight (120 kDa) as well as monosaccharide components (glucose, fructose and mannose). This study indicated that wild Agaricus bisporus (Lange) Sing. Chaidam had strong potential to be exploited as an effective natural functional food to relieve oxidative and hypoxia stresses
Is Promiscuous CALB a Good Scaffold for Designing New Epoxidases?
Authors: Bordes Isabel , Recatalá José , Świderek Katarzyna , Moliner Vicent
Published: September 2015

Candida Antarctica lipase B (CALB) is a well-known enzyme, especially because of its promiscuous activity. Due to its properties, CALB was widely used as a benchmark for designing new catalysts for important organic reactions. The active site of CALB is very similar to that of soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) formed by a nucleophile-histidine-acid catalytic triad and an oxyanion hole typical for molecular structures derived from processes of α/β hydrolases. In this work we are exploring these similarities and proposing a Ser105Asp variant of CALB as a new catalyst for epoxide hydrolysis. In particular, the hydrolysis of the trans-diphenylpropene oxide (t-DPPO) is studied by means of quantum cluster models mimicking the active site of both enzymes. Our results, based on semi-empirical and DFT calculations, suggest that mutant Ser105Asp CALB is a good protein scaffold to be used for the bio-synthesis of chiral compounds.
Anti-Tumor Effect of Steamed Codonopsis lanceolata in H22 Tumor-Bearing Mice and Its Possible Mechanism
Authors: Li Wei , Xu Qi , He Yu-Fang , Liu Ying , Yang Shu-Bao , Wang Zi , Zhang Jing , Zhao Li-Chun
Published: September 2015

Although previous studies confirmed that steaming and the fermentation process could significantly improve the cognitive-enhancement and neuroprotective effects of Codonopsis lanceolata, the anti-tumor efficacy of steamed C. lanceolata (SCL) and what mechanisms are involved remain largely unknown. The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-tumor effect in vivo of SCL in H22 tumor-bearing mice. The results clearly indicated that SCL could not only inhibit the tumor growth, but also prolong the survival time of H22 tumor-bearing mice. Besides, the serum levels of cytokines, such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-2 (IL-2), were enhanced by SCL administration. The observations of Hoechst 33258 staining demonstrated that SCL was able to induce tumor cell apoptosis. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that SCL treatment significantly increased Bax expression and decreased Bcl-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression of H22 tumor tissues in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, LC/MS analysis of SCL indicated that it mainly contained lobetyolin and six saponins. Taken all together, the findings in the present study clearly demonstrated that SCL inhibited the H22 tumor growth in vivo at least partly via improving the immune functions, inducing apoptosis and inhibiting angiogenesis.
Gut Function-Enhancing Properties and Metabolic Effects of Dietary Indigestible Sugars in Rodents and Rabbits
Authors: Xiao Jin , Metzler-Zebeli Barbara , Zebeli Qendrim
Published: September 2015

Indigestible sugars (iS) have received particular interest in food and nutrition research due to their prebiotic properties and other health benefits in humans and animals. The main aim of this review article is to summarize the current knowledge regarding digestive and health-enhancing properties of iS such as sugar alcohols, oligosacharides, and polysaccharides, in rodents and rabbits. Besides ameliorating gut health, iS ingestion also elicits laxative effects and stimulate intestinal permeability and fluid secretions, thereby shortening digesta transit time and increasing stool mass and quality. In rodents and rabbits, as hindgut fermenters, consumption of iS leads to an improved nutrient digestibility, too. Cecal fermentation of iS reduces luminal pH and extends wall tissue facilitating absorption of key dietary minerals across hindgut. The microbial fermentation of iS also enhances excessive blood nitrogen (N) flowing into the cecum to be used as N source for bacterial growth, enhancing N retention in cecotrophic animals. This review also highlights the impact of iS on improving lipid metabolism, mainly by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides levels in the blood. The paper serves as an index of the current knowledge of iS effects in rodents and rabbits and also identifies gaps of knowledge that need to be addressed by future research.
RETRACTED: Di Capaci, R.B.; Scali, C. Review on Valve Stiction. Part I: From Modeling to Smart Diagnosis. Processes 2015, 3, 422–451
Authors: Henson Michael , Office Processes
Published: September 2015

We have become aware that a review paper [1] recently published in Processes contained a considerable amount of identical text and a similar structure to a previously published review paper [2], although some novel content was presented, including new citations and a section on smart diagnosis. [...]
Risk Classification Efficiency and the Insurance Market Regulation
Authors: Porrini Donatella
Published: September 2015

Given that the insurance market is characterized by asymmetric information, its efficiency has traditionally been based to a large extent on risk classification. In certain regulations, however, we can find restrictions on these differentiations, primarily the ban on those considered to be “discriminatory”. In 2011, following the European Union Directive 2004/113/EC, the European Court of Justice concluded that any gender-based discrimination was prohibited, meaning that gender equality in the European Union had to be ensured from 21 December 2012. Another restriction was imposed by EU and national competition regulation on the exchange of information considered as anti-competitive behavior. This paper aims to contribute to the recent policy debate in the EU, evaluating the negative economic consequences of these regulatory restrictions in terms of market efficiency.
Sentinel-2 for Mapping Iron Absorption Feature Parameters
Authors: Van der Werff Harald , Van der Meer Freek
Published: September 2015

Iron is an indicator for soil fertility and the usability of an area for cultivating crops. Remote sensing is the only suitable tool for surveying large areas at a high temporal and spatial interval, yet a relative high spectral resolution is needed for mapping iron contents with reflectance data. Sentinel-2 has several bands that cover the 0.9 μm iron absorption feature, while space-borne sensors traditionally used for geologic remote sensing, like ASTER and Landsat, had only one band in this feature. In this paper, we introduce a curve-fitting technique for Sentinel-2 that approximates the iron absorption feature at a hyperspectral resolution. We test our technique on library spectra of different iron bearing minerals and we apply it to a Sentinel-2 image synthesized from an airborne hyperspectral dataset. Our method finds the wavelength position of maximum absorption and absolute absorption depth for minerals Beryl, Bronzite, Goethite, Jarosite and Hematite. Sentinel-2 offers information on the 0.9 μm absorption feature that until now was reserved for hyperspectral instruments. Being a satellite mission, this information comes at a lower spatial resolution than airborne hyperspectral data, but with a large spatial coverage and frequent revisit time.
The Potential of Pan-Sharpened EnMAP Data for the Assessment of Wheat LAI
Authors: Siegmann Bastian , Jarmer Thomas , Beyer Florian , Ehlers Manfred
Published: September 2015

In modern agriculture, the spatially differentiated assessment of the leaf area index (LAI) is of utmost importance to allow an adapted field management. Current hyperspectral satellite systems provide information with a high spectral but only a medium spatial resolution. Due to the limited ground sampling distance (GSD), hyperspectral satellite images are often insufficient for precision agricultural applications. In the presented study, simulated hyperspectral data of the upcoming Environmental Mapping and Analysis Program (EnMAP) mission (30 m GSD) covering an agricultural region were pan-sharpened with higher resolution panchromatic aisaEAGLE (airborne imaging spectrometer for applications EAGLE) (3 m GSD) and simulated Sentinel-2 images (10 m GSD) using the spectral preserving Ehlers Fusion. As fusion evaluation criteria, the spectral angle (αspec) and the correlation coefficient (R) were calculated to determine the spectral preservation capability of the fusion results. Additionally, partial least squares regression (PLSR) models were built based on the EnMAP images, the fused datasets and the original aisaEAGLE hyperspectral data to spatially predict the LAI of two wheat fields. The aisaEAGLE model provided the best results (R2cv = 0.87) followed by the models built with the fused datasets (EnMAP–aisaEAGLE and EnMAP–Sentinel-2 fusion each with a R2cv of 0.75) and the simulated EnMAP data (R2cv = 0.68). The results showed the suitability of pan-sharpened EnMAP data for a reliable spatial prediction of LAI and underlined the potential of pan-sharpening to enhance spatial resolution as required for precision agriculture applications.
ResilientWireless Sensor Networks Using Topology Control: A Review
Authors: Huang Yuanjiang , Martínez José-Fernán , Sendra Juana , López Lourdes
Published: September 2015

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) may be deployed in failure-prone environments, and WSNs nodes easily fail due to unreliable wireless connections, malicious attacks and resource-constrained features. Nevertheless, if WSNs can tolerate at most losing k - 1 nodes while the rest of nodes remain connected, the network is called k - connected. k is one of the most important indicators for WSNs’ self-healing capability. Following a WSN design flow, this paper surveys resilience issues from the topology control and multi-path routing point of view. This paper provides a discussion on transmission and failure models, which have an important impact on research results. Afterwards, this paper reviews theoretical results and representative topology control approaches to guarantee WSNs to be k - connected at three different network deployment stages: pre-deployment, post-deployment and re-deployment. Multi-path routing protocols are discussed, and many NP-complete or NP-hard problems regarding topology control are identified. The challenging open issues are discussed at the end. This paper can serve as a guideline to design resilient WSNs.
PRIMAL: Page Rank-Based Indoor Mapping and Localization Using Gene-Sequenced Unlabeled WLAN Received Signal Strength
Authors: Zhou Mu , Zhang Qiao , Xu Kunjie , Tian Zengshan , Wang Yanmeng , He Wei
Published: September 2015

Due to the wide deployment of wireless local area networks (WLAN), received signal strength (RSS)-based indoor WLAN localization has attracted considerable attention in both academia and industry. In this paper, we propose a novel page rank-based indoor mapping and localization (PRIMAL) by using the gene-sequenced unlabeled WLAN RSS for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). Specifically, first of all, based on the observation of the motion patterns of the people in the target environment, we use the Allen logic to construct the mobility graph to characterize the connectivity among different areas of interest. Second, the concept of gene sequencing is utilized to assemble the sporadically-collected RSS sequences into a signal graph based on the transition relations among different RSS sequences. Third, we apply the graph drawing approach to exhibit both the mobility graph and signal graph in a more readable manner. Finally, the page rank (PR) algorithm is proposed to construct the mapping from the signal graph into the mobility graph. The experimental results show that the proposed approach achieves satisfactory localization accuracy and meanwhile avoids the intensive time and labor cost involved in the conventional location fingerprinting-based indoor WLAN localization.
A Survey on Energy Conserving Mechanisms for the Internet of Things: Wireless Networking Aspects
Authors: Abbas Zeeshan , Yoon Wonyong
Published: September 2015

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an emerging key technology for future industries and everyday lives of people, where a myriad of battery operated sensors, actuators, and smart objects are connected to the Internet to provide services such as mobile healthcare, intelligent transport system, environmental monitoring, etc. Since energy efficiency is of utmost importance to these battery constrained IoT devices, IoT-related standards and research works have focused on the device energy conserving issues. This paper presents a comprehensive survey on energy conserving issues and solutions in using diverse wireless radio access technologies for IoT connectivity, e.g., the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) machine type communications, IEEE 802.11ah, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Z-Wave. We look into the literature in broad areas of standardization, academic research, and industry development, and structurally summarize the energy conserving solutions based on several technical criteria. We also propose future research directions regarding energy conserving issues in wireless networking-based IoT.