bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Luting Materials on the Retention of Cemented Implant-Supported Crowns: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Naumova Ella A. , Roth Felix , Geis Berit , Baulig Christine , Arnold Wolfgang H. , Piwowarczyk Andree
Published: September 2018

The retention force of cemented crowns on implant abutments with various luting materials was evaluated. Cobalt–chromium crowns were cemented onto tapered titanium abutments (Camlog) with eugenol-free temporary cement (RelyX TempBond NE), composite-based temporary cement (Bifix Temp), zinc phosphate cement (Harvard Cement), glass-ionomer cements (Meron, Fuji I), and resin-modified glass-ionomer cements (Fuji II, Fuji Plus, Ketac Cem Plus). Specimen aging via hydrostress was performed in artificial saliva at 37 °C for 14 days (S1), followed by hydrothermal stress with thermocycling (S2). The crowns were removed, and the force was recorded (T1). Subsequently, the crowns were recemented, aged, and removed, and the force was recorded (T2, T3). The retention forces differences were statistically significant according to the storage conditions at T1 (p = 0.002) and T3 (p = 0.0002). After aging (S1), Ketac Cem Plus had the highest retention force median value difference (T3 versus T1) (−773 N), whereas RelyX TempBond NE had the lowest (−146 N). After aging (S2), Meron had the highest retention force median value difference (−783 N), whereas RelyX TempBond NE had the lowest (−168 N). Recementation decreased the retention force of the implant-supported cobalt–chromium crowns cemented and recemented with the same luting materials. Luting materials (at T1) and aging conditions significantly impacted the retention force.
Crystal Plasticity Modeling of Anisotropic Hardening and Texture Due to Dislocation Transmutation in Twinning
Authors: Allen Robert M. , Toth Laszlo S. , Oppedal Andrew L. , El Kadiri Haitham
Published: September 2018

In crystalline materials, dislocations are three-dimensional lattice distortions that systematically distort twin interfaces that they encounter. This results in dislocation dissociation events and changes in the atomic structure of the interface. The manner in which the interface distorts drive the product of the dissociation event, and consequently, the incident dislocation core and the magnitude and relative direction of the Burgers vector govern these slip-twin interaction phenomena. Recent characterization studies using transmission electron microscopy as well as advanced molecular dynamic simulations have shown that slip dislocations, whether striking or struck by a {10 1 ¯ 2} twin boundary, dissociate into a combination of twinning disconnections, interfacial disclinations (facets), jogs, and other types of dislocations engulfed inside the twin domains, called transmuted dislocations. While twinning disconnections were found to promote twin propagation, the dislocations incorporated inside the twin are of considerable importance to hardening and damage initiation as they more significantly obstruct slip dislocations accommodating plasticity of the twins. In this work, the dislocation transmutation event and its effect on hardening is captured using a dislocation density based hardening model contained in a visco-plastic self-consistent mean-field model. This is done by allowing the twins to increase their dislocation densities, not only by virtue of slip inside the twin, but also through dislocations that transmute from the parents as the twin volume fraction increases. A correspondence matrix rule is used to determine the type of converted dislocations while tracking and parameterizing their evolution. This hypothesis provides a modeling framework for capturing slip-twin interactions. The model is used to simulate the mechanical response of pure Mg and provides a more physically based approach for modeling stress-strain behavior.
Configuration Optimization Design of Ti6Al4V Lattice Structure Formed by SLM
Authors: Bai Long , Zhang Junfang , Chen Xiaohong , Yi Changyan , Chen Rui , Zhang Zixiang
Published: September 2018

Previous studies have revealed the influence of various lattice structures on the material density and mechanical properties. However, the majority of the topologies that are considered as study objects directly refer to metal/non-crystal lattice cell configurations. Therefore, this paper proposes a configuration generation approach for generating a lattice structure, which can obtain a lattice configuration that enjoys the advantages of both ultra-low weight and favorable mechanical properties. Based on this approach, a new type of face-centered cubic lattice (all face-centered cubic, AFCC) structure with comprehensively optimal properties in terms of mass and mechanical properties is obtained. The experimental samples are formed with Ti6Al4V by the selective laser melting (SLM) method. Quasi-static uniaxial compression performance experiments and finite element analysis (FEA) are conducted on an AFCC structure and the control group body-centered cubic (BCC) structure. The results demonstrates that our optimized AFCC lattice structure is superior to the BCC structure, with elastic modulus and yield limit increases of 143% and 120%, respectively. For the same degree of deformation, the energy absorbed increases approximately 2.4 times. The AFCC demonstrates significant advantages in terms of its mechanical properties and anti-explosion impact resistance while maintaining favorable ultra-low weight, which validates the hypothesis that the proposed configuration generation approach can provide guidance for the design and further research on ultra-light lattice structures in related fields.
Glassy Carbon: A Promising Material for Micro- and Nanomanufacturing
Authors: Sharma Swati
Published: September 2018

When certain polymers are heat-treated beyond their degradation temperature in the absence of oxygen, they pass through a semi-solid phase, followed by the loss of heteroatoms and the formation of a solid carbon material composed of a three-dimensional graphenic network, known as glassy (or glass-like) carbon. The thermochemical decomposition of polymers, or generally of any organic material, is defined as pyrolysis. Glassy carbon is used in various large-scale industrial applications and has proven its versatility in miniaturized devices. In this article, micro and nano-scale glassy carbon devices manufactured by (i) pyrolysis of specialized pre-patterned polymers and (ii) direct machining or etching of glassy carbon, with their respective applications, are reviewed. The prospects of the use of glassy carbon in the next-generation devices based on the material’s history and development, distinct features compared to other elemental carbon forms, and some large-scale processes that paved the way to the state-of-the-art, are evaluated. Selected support techniques such as the methods used for surface modification, and major characterization tools are briefly discussed. Barring historical aspects, this review mainly covers the advances in glassy carbon device research from the last five years (2013–2018). The goal is to provide a common platform to carbon material scientists, micro/nanomanufacturing experts, and microsystem engineers to stimulate glassy carbon device research.
A New Method for Predicting Erosion Damage of Suddenly Contracted Pipe Impacted by Particle Cluster via CFD-DEM
Authors: Cheng Jiarui , Dou Yihua , Zhang Ningsheng , Li Zhen , Wang Zhiguo
Published: September 2018

A numerical study on the erosion of particle clusters in an abrupt pipe was conducted by means of the combined computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and discrete element methods (DEM). Furthermore, a particle-wall extrusion model and a criterion for judging particle collision interference were developed to classify and calculate the erosion rate caused by different interparticle collision mechanisms in a cluster. Meanwhile, a full-scale pipe flow experiment was conducted to confirm the effect of a particle cluster on the erosion rate and to verify the calculated results. The reducing wall was made of super 13Cr stainless steel materials and the round ceramsite as an impact particle was 0.65 mm in diameter and 1850 kg/m3 in density. The results included an erosion depth, particle-wall contact parameters, and a velocity decay rate of colliding particles along the radial direction at the target surface. Subsequently, the effect of interparticle collision mechanisms on particle cluster erosion was discussed. The calculated results demonstrate that collision interference between particles during one cluster impact was more likely to appear on the surface with large particle impact angles. This collision process between the rebounded particles and the following particles not only consumed the kinetic energy but also changed the impact angle of the following particles.
Thermal Spray Coatings as an Adhesion Promoter in Metal/FRP Joints
Authors: Lindner Thomas , Saborowski Erik , Scholze Mario , Zillmann Benjamin , Lampke Thomas
Published: September 2018

In this study, various structuring methods for creating adhesion by mechanical interlocking in the interface of metal/FRP (fiber-reinforced polymer) joints are investigated. A novel processing route using thermal spray coatings as additive structure is presented. Different coating systems are first assessed by axial loading tests with spray-coated plungers for the evaluation of the additive layer adhesion on the metallic base material. Additional microstructures, produced by different abrasive processes (corundum blasting, laser structuring, and fine milling) are compared with the additive structures. All surface structures are characterized by electron microscopy for two sheet materials: DC06 and AA6016-T4. The abrasive structures show a significant material dependence, while the selected coating system offers the adjustment to different base materials by an independent surface layer. The structured metal sheets were further joined to glass-fiber-reinforced polyamide 6 (PA6) by hot pressing to evaluate the interface properties in tensile shear tests. The results confirm a suitability of thermal spray coatings for providing a high bonding strength in metal/FRP joints for both investigated metallic substrate materials.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Heat-Affected Zone of Repeated Welding AISI 304N Austenitic Stainless Steel by Gleeble Simulator
Authors: Guo Y.H. , Lin Li , Zhang Donghui , Liu Lili , Lei M.K.
Published: September 2018

Heat-affected zone (HAZ) of welding joints critical to the equipment safety service are commonly repeatedly welded in industries. Thus, the effects of repeated welding up to six times on the microstructure and mechanical properties of HAZ for AISI 304N austenitic stainless steel specimens were investigated by a Gleeble simulator. The temperature field of HAZ was measured by in situ thermocouples. The as-welded and one to five times repeated welding were assigned as-welded (AW) and repeated welding 1–5 times (RW1–RW5), respectively. The austenitic matrices with the δ-ferrite were observed in all specimens by the metallography. The δ-ferrite content was also determined using magnetic and metallography methods. The δ-ferrite had a lathy structure with a content of 0.69–3.13 vol.%. The austenitic grains were equiaxial with an average size of 41.4–47.3 μm. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and yield strength (YS) mainly depended on the δ-ferrite content; otherwise, the impact energy mainly depended on both the austenitic grain size and the δ-ferrite content. The UTS of the RW1–RW3 specimens was above 550 MPa following the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standard. The impact energy of all specimens was higher than that in ASME standard at about 56 J. The repeated welding up to three times could still meet the requirements for strength and toughness of welding specifications.
Midwave FTIR-Based Remote Surface Temperature Estimation Using a Deep Convolutional Neural Network in a Dynamic Weather Environment
Authors: Kim Sungho , Kim Jungho , Lee Jinyong , Ahn Junmo
Published: September 2018

Remote measurements of thermal radiation are very important for analyzing the solar effect in various environments. This paper presents a novel real-time remote temperature estimation method by applying a deep learning-based regression method to midwave infrared hyperspectral images. A conventional remote temperature estimation using only one channel or multiple channels cannot provide a reliable temperature in dynamic weather environments because of the unknown atmospheric transmissivities. This paper solves the issue (real-time remote temperature measurement with high accuracy) with the proposed surface temperature-deep convolutional neural network (ST-DCNN) and a hyperspectral thermal camera (TELOPS HYPER-CAM MWE). The 27-layer ST-DCNN regressor can learn and predict the underlying temperatures from 75 spectral channels. Midwave infrared hyperspectral image data of a remote object were acquired three times a day (10:00, 13:00, 15:00) for 7 months to consider the dynamic weather variations. The experimental results validate the feasibility of the novel remote temperature estimation method in real-world dynamic environments. In addition, the thermal stealth properties of two types of paint were demonstrated by the proposed ST-DCNN as a real-world application.
Novel Preparation of Monodisperse Microbubbles by Integrating Oscillating Electric Fields with Microfluidics
Authors: Kothandaraman Anjana , Harker Anthony , Ventikos Yiannis , Edirisinghe Mohan
Published: September 2018

Microbubbles generated by microfluidic techniques have gained substantial interest in various industries such as cosmetics, food engineering, and the biomedical field. The microfluidic T-junction provides exquisite control over processing parameters, however, it relies on pressure driven flows only; therefore, bubble size variation is limited especially for viscous solutions. A novel set-up to superimpose an alternating current (AC) oscillation onto a direct current (DC) field is invented in this work, capitalising on the possibility to excite bubble resonance phenomenon and properties, and introducing relevant parameters such as frequency, AC voltage, and waveform to further control bubble size. A capillary embedded T-junction microfluidic device fitted with a stainless-steel capillary was utilised for microbubble formation. Furthermore, a numerical model of the T-junction was developed by integrating the volume of fluid (VOF) method with the electric module; simulation results were attained for the formation of the microbubbles with a particular focus on the flow fields along the detachment of the emerging bubble. Two main types of experiments were conducted in this framework: the first was to test the effect of applied AC voltage magnitude and the second was to vary the applied frequency. Experimental results indicated that higher frequencies have a pronounced effect on the bubble diameter within the 100 Hz and 2.2 kHz range, whereas elevated AC voltages tend to promote bubble elongation and growth. Computational results suggest there is a uniform velocity field distribution along the bubble upon application of a superimposed field and that microbubble detachment is facilitated by the recirculation of the dispersed phase. Furthermore, an ideal range of parameters exists to tailor monodisperse bubble size for specific applications.
Mechanism of Novel K2SO4/KCl Composite Roasting Additive for Strengthening Vanadium Extraction from Vanadium–Titanium Magnetite Concentrate
Authors: Li Renmin , Liu Tao , Zhang Yimin , Huang Jing
Published: September 2018

In this paper, a novel K2SO4/KCl composite roasting additive was used to extract vanadium from vanadium–titanium magnetite concentrate. Further, the mechanism of K2SO4/KCl for extracting vanadium was studied. The results indicate that the vanadium leaching efficiency reached 82.04%, an increase of 7.43% compared to that of single K2SO4 and 10.05% compared to single KCl under the following conditions: a total dosage of K2SO4/KCl of 7 wt % with a mass ratio of 6/4, a roasting temperature of 950 °C, a roasting time of 1 h, a leaching temperature of 95 °C, a sulfuric acid concentration of 10% (v/v: volume percentage), and a leaching time of 1.5 h with a liquid-to-solid ratio of 3 mL/g. Moreover, crystal chemistry analyses indicated that the essence of the vanadium extraction with roasting was the conversion of cubic crystal systemic vanadium-bearing magnetite (FeO(Fe,V)2O3) to trigonal crystal systemic hematite (α-Fe2O3), and as most Fe(V)–O bonds were broken with the reconstructed conversion, the dissociation of V(III) occurred. Furthermore, the main decomposition products of K2SO4/KCl were K2O, SO2, and Cl2. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and related SEM-EDS analyses indicated that there were mainly three aspects in the mechanism of K2SO4/KCl for extracting vanadium. Firstly, activated K2O could combine with vanadium to generate soluble KVO3 rather insoluble Ca(VO3)2; secondly, SO2 could react with CaO to form CaSO4 to prevent the generation of acid-consuming Ca(VO3)2, which was beneficial to the dissolution of vanadium-bearing sphene (Ca(Ti,V)SiO4O); thirdly, Cl2 could destroy the structure of hematite (Fe2O3) to reduce its wrapping extent to KVO3.
Subchronic Toxicity Studies of Cortex Dictamni Extracts in Mice and Its Potential Hepatotoxicity Mechanisms in Vitro
Authors: Fan Qiongyin , Zhao Baosheng , Wang Chunguo , Zhang Jingxuan , Wu Jinying , Wang Ting , Xu Anlong
Published: September 2018

Cortex Dictamni is a commonly-used traditional Chinese herbal medicine for the treatment of skin inflammation, tinea, and eczema. Recently, some studies reported that Cortex Dictamni might induce liver injury, suggesting more attention to its safety. The current study was designed to investigate subchronic toxicity of Cortex Dictamni aqueous extract (CDAE) and ethanol extract (CDEE) in mice and the potential hepatotoxicity mechanisms in vitro. Firstly, CDAE or CDEE groups were administrated with varying dosages (2.3, 4.6, or 9.2 g/kg/day, p.o.) in mice for 28 days in subchronic toxicity studies. General clinical signs and biochemical parameters were examined, and morphological analyses were conducted. Secondly, we identified the different constituents of CDAE and CDEE using HPLC-MS/MS and chose major components for further study. In order to determine the toxic components, we investigated the cytotoxicity of extracts and chosen components using CCK-8 assay in HepG2 cells. Furthermore, we explored the possible hepatotoxicity mechanisms of Cortex Dictamni using a high content analysis (HCA). The results showed that no significant differences of general clinical signs were observed in mice. Aspartate alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aminotransferase (AST) were significantly increased in the high-dose CDAE and CDEE groups compared to the control group. Meanwhile, the absolute and relative liver weights and liver/brain ratio were significantly elevated, and histological examination of liver demonstrated cellular enlargement or nuclear shrinkage. In UPLC analysis, we compared the chemical constituents between CDAE and CDEE, and chose dictamnine, obakunone, and fraxinellone for hepatotoxicity evaluation in the in vitro studies. In the CCK-8 assay, CDAE, CDEE, dictamnine, obakunone, and fraxinellone decreased the cell viability in a dose-dependent manner after treatment for 48 h. Furthermore, the cell number decreased, while the nuclear intensity, cell membrane permeability, and concentration of reactive oxygen species were shown to increase, meanwhile, mitochondrial membrane potential was also changed in HepG2 cells following 48 h of compounds treatment using HCA. Our studies suggested that CDAE and CDEE have potential hepatotoxicity, and that the alcohol extraction process could increase toxicity. Dictamnine, obakunone, and fraxinellone may be the possible toxic components in Cortex Dictamni with dictamnine as the most potentially hepatotoxic component, whose potential hepatotoxicity mechanism may be associated with cell apoptosis. Moreover, this study could provide valuable data for clinical drug safety research of Cortex Dictamni and a good example for safety study of other Chinese herbal medicines.
Biocompatible Fe-Based Micropore Metal-Organic Frameworks as Sustained-Release Anticancer Drug Carriers
Authors: Leng Xin , Dong Xiaoxv , Wang Wenping , Sai Na , Yang Chunjing , You Longtai , Huang Hongliang , Yin Xingbin , Ni Jian
Published: September 2018

Sustained-release preparation is a hot spot in antitumor drug research, where the first task is to select suitable drug carriers. Research has revealed that carboxylic acid iron metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), constructed from iron (Fe) ions and terephthalic acid, are nontoxic and biocompatible. Due to the breathing effect, the skeleton of this mesoporous material is flexible and can reversibly adapt its pore size through drug adsorption. Therefore, we chose one kind of Fe-MOF, MIL-53(Fe), as a carrier for the anticancer drug oridonin (Ori). In this work, we report the design and synthesis of MIL-53(Fe) and explore its ability as a transport vehicle to deliver Ori. MIL-53(Fe) is characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffraction. A loading capacity of 56.25 wt % was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. This carrier was safe and nontoxic (cell viability > 95.27%), depending on the results of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)--2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assays, lactate dehydrogenase assays, and Annexin V-fluoresce isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining assays. After loading the drug, the structure of the MIL-53(Fe) was not destroyed, and Ori was amorphous in MIL-53(Fe). Based on an analysis of the Ori release profile, results suggest that it lasts for more than seven days in vitro. The cumulative release rate of Ori at the seventh day was about 82.23% and 91.75% in phosphate buffer saline solution at 37 °C under pH 7.2 and pH 5.5, respectively. HepG2 cells were chosen to study the cytotoxicity of Ori@MIL-53(Fe), and the results show that the anticancer ratio of Ori@MIL-53(Fe) system reaches 90.62%. Thus, MIL-53 can be used as a carrier for anticancer drugs and Ori@MIL-53(Fe) is a promising sustained-release drug delivery system for the cancer therapy.
Quantitative Determination of Cd in Soil Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy in Air and Ar Conditions
Authors: Liu Xiaodan , Liu Fei , Huang Weihao , Peng Jiyu , Shen Tingting , He Yong
Published: September 2018

Rapid detection of Cd content in soil is beneficial to the prevention of soil heavy metal pollution. In this study, we aimed at exploring the rapid quantitative detection ability of laser- induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) under the conditions of air and Ar for Cd in soil, and finding a fast and accurate method for quantitative detection of heavy metal elements in soil. Spectral intensity of Cd and system performance under air and Ar conditions were analyzed and compared. The univariate model and multivariate models of partial least-squares regression (PLSR) and least-squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) of Cd under the air and Ar conditions were built, and the LS-SVM model under the Ar condition obtained the best performance. In addition, the principle of influence of Ar on LIBS detection was investigated by analyzing the three-dimensional profile of the ablation crater. The overall results indicated that LIBS combined with LS-SVM under the Ar condition could be a useful tool for the accurate quantitative detection of Cd in soil and could provide reference for environmental monitoring.
Aqueous Synthesis, Degradation, and Encapsulation of Copper Nanowires for Transparent Electrodes
Authors: Mock Josef , Bobinger Marco , Bogner Christian , Lugli Paolo , Becherer Markus
Published: September 2018

Copper nanowires (CuNWs) have increasingly become subjected to academic and industrial research, which is attributed to their good performance as a transparent electrode (TE) material that competes with the one of indium tin oxide (ITO). Recently, an environmentally friendly and aqueous synthesis of CuNWs was demonstrated, without the use of hydrazine that is known for its unfavorable properties. In this work, we extend the current knowledge for the aqueous synthesis of CuNWs by studying their up-scaling potential. This potential is an important aspect for the commercialization and further development of CuNW-based devices. Due to the scalability and homogeneity of the deposition process, spray coating was selected to produce films with a low sheet resistance of 7.6 Ω/sq. and an optical transmittance of 77%, at a wavelength of 550 nm. Further, we present a comprehensive investigation of the degradation of CuNWs when subjected to different environmental stresses such as the exposure to ambient air, elevated temperatures, high electrical currents, moisture or ultraviolet (UV) light. For the oxidation process, a model is derived to describe the dependence of the breakdown time with the temperature and the initial resistance. Finally, polymer coatings made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), as well as oxide coatings composed of electron beam evaporated silicon dioxide (SiO2) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) are tested to hinder the oxidation of the CuNW films under current flow.
Prospective Analysis of Vegetable Amount and Variety on the Risk of All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality among US Adults, 1999–2011
Authors: Conrad Zach , Thomson Jessica , Jahns Lisa
Published: September 2018

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015–2020 (DGA) provides recommendations for consuming a specific amount and variety of vegetables, but no studies have assessed the relationship between DGA-recommended vegetable variety and risk of mortality. We prospectively assessed the relationship between vegetable amount and variety and the risk of mortality using nationally-representative survey data (n = 29,133). Hazard ratios were estimated using survey-weighted, multivariate, Cox-proportional hazards models. Mean follow-up time was 6.5 years (12.8 years maximum). Total deaths from all causes were 2861, which included 829 deaths from cardiometabolic disease (556 coronary heart disease, 170 stroke, and 103 diabetes). Compared to individuals who reported consuming the greatest amount of vegetables daily, those with the least intake had a 78% greater risk of mortality from all causes (HR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.29–2.47), a 68% greater risk of death from cardiovascular disease (1.68, 1.08–2.62), and an 80% greater risk of death from coronary heart disease (1.80, 1.09–2.08). No relationships were observed between vegetable variety and risk of all-cause or cause-specific mortality. Greater vegetable amount, but not variety, was associated with a reduced risk of mortality from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and coronary heart disease. Additional large-scale longitudinal studies with repeated measures of dietary exposure are needed.
Maternal Nutrition and Body Composition During Breastfeeding: Association with Human Milk Composition
Authors: Bzikowska-Jura Agnieszka , Czerwonogrodzka-Senczyna Aneta , Olędzka Gabriela , Szostak-Węgierek Dorota , Weker Halina , Wesołowska Aleksandra
Published: September 2018

The composition of human milk is dynamic and can vary according to many maternal factors, such as diet and nutritional status. This study investigated the association of maternal nutrition and body composition with human milk composition. All measurements and analyses were done at three time points: during the first (n = 40), third (n = 22), and sixth (n = 15) month of lactation. Human milk was analyzed using the Miris human milk analyzer (HMA), body composition was measured with bioelectrical bioimpedance (BIA) using a Maltron BioScan 920-II, and the assessment of women’s nutrition was based on a three-day dietary record. The correlation coefficient (Pearson’s r) did not show a significant statistical relationship between human milk composition and nutrients in women’s diet at three time points. For women in the third month postpartum, we observed moderate to strong significant correlations (r ranged from 0.47 to 0.64) between total protein content in milk and the majority of body composition measures as follows: positive correlations: % fat mass (r = 0.60; p = 0.003), fat-free mass expressed in kg (r = 0.63; p = 0.001), and muscle mass (r = 0.47; p = 0.027); and negative correlation: % total body water (r = −0.60; p = 0.003). The variance in milk fat content was related to the body mass index (BMI), with a significant positive correlation in the first month postpartum (r = 0.33; p = 0.048). These findings suggest that it is not diet, but rather the maternal body composition that may be associated with the nutritional value of human milk.
Yield, Quality and Antioxidant Properties of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in Response to Foliar Biofortification with Selenium and Iodine
Authors: Golubkina Nadezhda , Kekina Helene , Caruso Gianluca
Published: September 2018

One of the possible ways to challenge selenium (Se) and iodine (I) deficiency in human beings is the joint biofortification of plants with these elements. Though the relationship between Se and I is highly pronounced in mammals, little is known about their interactions in plants where Se and I are considered not to be essential. Peculiarities of Se and I assimilation by a natural Se accumulator, such as Brassica juncea L., cultivar Volnushka, were assessed upon joint and separate plant foliar supply with sodium selenate (50 mg Se L−1) and potassium iodide (100 mg I L−1), in two crop seasons (spring, summer). Conversely to the individual application of Se and I, their joint supply did not stimulate plant growth. Separate use of sodium selenate enhanced I accumulation by 2.64 times, while biofortification with I increased the Se content in plant leaves by 4.3 times; this phenomenon was also associated with significant increase of total soluble solids and ascorbic acid content in leaves. The joint supply of Se and I did not affect the mentioned parameters. Both joint and separate application of Se and I led to synergism between these elements in: inhibiting nitrate accumulation; stimulating flavonoids biosynthesis (2–2.3 times compared to control plants) as well as Al and B accumulation; decreasing Cd and Sr concentrations. Plant biofortification with I increased the content of Mn and decreased K and Li. The consumption of 100 g Brassica juncea leaves provided 100% of the adequate human requirement of Se and 15.5% of I.
An Oligoimide Particle as a Pickering Emulsion Stabilizer
Authors: Cho Yu-Jin , Kim Dong-Min , Song In-Ho , Choi Ju-Young , Jin Seung-Won , Kim Beom-Jun , Jeong Jin-Won , Jang Chae-Eun , Chu Kunmo , Chung Chan-Moon
Published: September 2018

A pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA) and 4,4′-oxydianiline (ODA)-based oligoimide (PMDA-ODA) was synthesized by a one-step procedure using water as a solvent. The PMDA-ODA particles showed excellent partial wetting properties and were stably dispersed in both water and oil phases. A stable dispersion was not obtained with comparison PMDA-ODA particles that were synthesized by a conventional two-step method using an organic solvent. Both oil-in-water and water-in-oil Pickering emulsions were prepared using the oligoimide particles synthesized in water, and the size of the emulsion droplet was controlled based on the oligoimide particle concentration. The oligoimide particles were tested to prepare Pickering emulsions using various kinds of oils. The oil-in-water Pickering emulsions were successfully applied to prepare microcapsules of the emulsion droplets. Our new Pickering emulsion stabilizer has the advantages of easy synthesis, no need for surface modification, and the capability of stabilizing both oil-in-water and water-in-oil emulsions.
Internal Relative Humidity, Autogenous Shrinkage, and Strength of Cement Mortar Modified with Superabsorbent Polymers
Authors: Urgessa Girum , Choi Ki-Bong , Yeon Jung Heum
Published: September 2018

Laboratory evaluations were performed to investigate the effect of internal curing (IC) by superabsorbent polymers (SAP) on the internal relative humidity (IRH), autogenous shrinkage, coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), and strength characteristics of low water-cement ratio (w/c) mortars. Four types of SAP with different cross-linking densities and particle sizes were used. Test results showed that the SAP inclusion effectively mitigated the IRH drops due to self-desiccation and corresponding autogenous shrinkage, and the IC effectiveness tended to increase with an increased SAP dosage. The greater the cross-linking density and particle size of SAP, the less the IRH drop and autogenous shrinkage. The trend of autogenous shrinkage developments was in good agreement with that of IRH changes, with nearly linear relationships between them. Both immediate deformation (ID)-based and full response-based CTEs were rarely affected by SAP inclusions. There were no substantial losses in compressive and flexural strengths of SAP-modified mortar compared to reference plain mortar. The findings revealed that SAPs can be effectively used to reduce the shrinkage cracking potential of low w/c cement-based materials at early ages, without compromising mechanical and thermal characteristics.
Integrating Aerial and Street View Images for Urban Land Use Classification
Authors: Cao Rui , Zhu Jiasong , Tu Wei , Li Qingquan , Cao Jinzhou , Liu Bozhi , Zhang Qian , Qiu Guoping
Published: September 2018

Urban land use is key to rational urban planning and management. Traditional land use classification methods rely heavily on domain experts, which is both expensive and inefficient. In this paper, deep neural network-based approaches are presented to label urban land use at pixel level using high-resolution aerial images and ground-level street view images. We use a deep neural network to extract semantic features from sparsely distributed street view images and interpolate them in the spatial domain to match the spatial resolution of the aerial images, which are then fused together through a deep neural network for classifying land use categories. Our methods are tested on a large publicly available aerial and street view images dataset of New York City, and the results show that using aerial images alone can achieve relatively high classification accuracy, the ground-level street view images contain useful information for urban land use classification, and fusing street image features with aerial images can improve classification accuracy. Moreover, we present experimental studies to show that street view images add more values when the resolutions of the aerial images are lower, and we also present case studies to illustrate how street view images provide useful auxiliary information to aerial images to boost performances.
Bias Removal for Goldstein Filtering Power Using a Second Kind Statistical Coherence Estimator
Authors: Tian Xin , Jiang Mi , Xiao Ruya , Malhotra Rakesh
Published: September 2018

The adaptive Goldstein filter driven by InSAR coherence is one of the most famous frequency domain-based filters and has been widely used to improve the quality of InSAR measurement with different noise features. However, the filtering power is biased to varying degrees due to the biased coherence estimator and empirical modelling of the filtering power under a given coherence level. This leads to under- or over-estimation of phase noise over the entire dataset. Here, the authors present a method to correct filtering power on the basis of the second kind statistical coherence estimator. In contrast with regular statistics, the new estimator has smaller bias and variance values, and therefore provides more accurate coherence observations. In addition, a piece-wise function model determined from the Monte Carlo simulation is used to compensate for the nonlinear relationship between the filtering parameter and coherence. This method was tested on both synthetic and real data sets and the results were compared against those derived from other state-of-the-art filters. The better performance of the new filter for edge preservation and residue reduction demonstrates the value of this method.
Accurate FPGA-Based Velocity Measurement with an Incremental Encoder by a Fast Generalized Divisionless MT-Type Algorithm
Authors: Hace Aleš , Čurkovič Milan
Published: September 2018

Velocity measurement by an incremental encoder is an important issue for advanced motion control applications such as robotics. In this paper, we deal with a kind of MT-type velocity estimation method. Though the conventional MT method is well known and has been well proven in practice, it requires execution of an arithmetic division operation that prevents an efficient implementation on low-cost FPGA-based control platforms. Thus, we propose a divisionless MT-type algorithm, which can provide a similar performance in velocity estimation accuracy as the conventional method, but requiring significantly less FPGA resources, since it implements only simple arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, and multiplication, that can be implemented more easily on the processing hardware. Furthermore, the algorithm is fast in execution, thus, it provides the output in only a few clock cycles. Though the proposed algorithm can be described in a recursive form, the stability of the estimation process is not jeopardized, although it is an important issue in this case. Hence, the algorithm is introduced in a form which assures stability in a wide speed range. We show the implementation of the algorithm on the experimental FPGA platform. The experimental results validated the proposed divisionless MT-type algorithm fully for accurate velocity estimation.
Numerical Sensing of Plastic Hinge Regions in Concrete Beams with Hybrid (FRP and Steel) Bars
Authors: Yuan Fang , Chen Mengcheng
Published: September 2018

Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP)-reinforced concrete members exhibit low ductility due to the linear-elastic behaviour of FRP materials. Concrete members reinforced by hybrid FRP–steel bars can improve strength and ductility simultaneously. In this study, the plastic hinge problem of hybrid FRP–steel reinforced concrete beams was numerically assessed through finite element analysis (FEA). Firstly, a finite element model was proposed to validate the numerical method by comparing the simulation results with the test results. Then, three plastic hinge regions—the rebar yielding zone, concrete crushing zone, and curvature localisation zone—of the hybrid reinforced concrete beams were analysed in detail. Finally, the effects of the main parameters, including the beam aspect ratio, concrete grade, steel yield strength, steel reinforcement ratio, steel hardening modulus, and FRP elastic modulus on the lengths of the three plastic zones, were systematically evaluated through parametric studies. It is determined that the hybrid reinforcement ratio exerts a significant effect on the plastic hinge lengths. The larger the hybrid reinforcement ratio, the larger is the extent of the rebar yielding zone and curvature localisation zone. It is also determined that the beam aspect ratio, concrete compressive strength, and steel hardening ratio exert significant positive effects on the length of the rebar yielding zone.
Discursive Struggle and Agency—Updating the Finnish Peatland Conservation Network
Authors: Albrecht Eerika
Published: September 2018

This paper explores the process of updating the peatland conservation network in Finland—the Supplemental Mire Conservation Programme, which was drafted from 2012 to 2015. This study employs discursive agency approach (DAA), to reveal how agents actively seek to gain legitimate speaker positions and influence policy outcomes as they rely on existing discourses. It also studies the role of discourse in the context of Finnish peatland conservation policy and evaluates the role of agents in the discursive process and how they influenced the outcome. The empirical data consists of expert interviews, newspaper articles and policy documents. The results indicate that the discourses of ‘maintenance of biodiversity’, ‘regulatory program’, ‘voluntary conservation’ and ‘participatory approach’ influence the peatland conservation policy. Additionally, discursive agency is achieved through hegemonic discourse and a consensus seeking argumentation strategy that rely on keywords, such voluntary and sustainability.
Hunger in Higher Education: Experiences and Correlates of Food Insecurity among Wisconsin Undergraduates from Low-Income Families
Authors: Broton Katharine M. , Weaver Kari E. , Mai Minhtuyen
Published: September 2018

There is growing awareness that a substantial share of undergraduates are food insecure, potentially undermining investments in higher education and hindering upward social mobility. This mixed-methods paper uses survey and interview data from low-income students at 42 public colleges and universities in Wisconsin to illuminate the day-to-day experiences of food insecurity and examine how food security status varies across background characteristics. Results indicate that students who grew up in food insecure homes, self-identify as a racial/ethnic minority, live off-campus, and attend college in an urban area are significantly more likely to report the lowest level of food security, often associated with hunger. Students explain that challenges stemming from the interrelationship of lack of time and inadequate money are their biggest barriers to food security. Most rely on friends or family for support, but few students draw on the social safety net, in part due to eligibility restrictions. In recognition of the diversity of students’ experiences, we discuss the need for a multi-faceted response to promote food security and student success.
Field-Based Performance Tests Are Related to Body Fat Percentage and Fat-Free Mass, But Not Body Mass Index, in Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Esco Michael R. , Fedewa Michael V. , Cicone Zackary S. , Sinelnikov Oleg A. , Sekulic Damir , Holmes Clifton J.
Published: September 2018

The primary aim of this study was to determine the association between body composition and performance outcomes in youth soccer players. Twenty-five competitive male youth soccer players (age = 13.7 ± 0.8 years, height = 167.4 ± 9.7 cm, weight = 57.6 ± 12.1 kg) volunteered to participate in this study. Height and weight were used to calculate body mass index (BMI). Body fat percentage (BF%) and fat-free mass (FFM) were determined with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Each athlete performed the Pacer test, vertical jump, and t-test drill. Participants were predominantly normal weight (20.4 ± 2.7 kg·m−2). The body composition results were 20.3 ± 4.9% for BF% and 46.5 ± 8.7 kg for FFM. The results of the performance tests indicated a mean ± standard deviation (SD) of 1418 ± 332 m for Pacer, 57.2 ± 7.4 cm for vertical jump, 11.6 ± 0.7 s for t-test. Body mass index was not associated with any performance measure (r = 0.02 to −0.21, all p > 0.05). Body fat percentage was associated with the Pacer, vertical jump, and t-test (r = −0.62, −0.57, 0.61, respectively; all p < 0.01) and remained after accounting for BMI. Fat-free mass was only significantly related to t-test (r = −0.43, p < 0.01). However, after controlling for BMI, FFM was related to all three performance tests. Body fat percentage and FFM are associated with performance in youth soccer players, with stronger relationships reported in the former metric. The findings highlight the need for accurate body composition measurements as part of an assessment battery in young athletes.
Supporting Theoretical Courses through Application
Authors: Mutlu Danaci Hacer , Oktay Hilmi Ekin
Published: September 2018

Ecological crises have affected the architecture discipline, and different techniques, technologies, and design approaches have flourished. A theory about the effect of ecology on architectural design, formulated as ecological design, and its education has started in institutes. However, it is important that the practice of architecture is reflected through theoretical knowledge in its outputs, and the discipline is conscious about its theoretical knowledge when designing a building, including how much can be understood in the concrete project. This study tries to discern the role of theoretical knowledge in practice and in final projects in the context of ecological design by estimating masters students’ experiences, perceptions, and attitudes. The research method of this study is a qualitative approach, and in-depth interviews have been done with masters-level students. The results of this study showed that the theoretical knowledge given in the lectures could change the opinions of a designer regarding ecological design. Based on the results, ecological design courses can increase the popularity of ecological building design strategies, which offers potential for more sustainable living environments and more environmentally friendly buildings, and their spread into human environments.
Case Study on Slope Stability Changes Caused by Earthquakes—Focusing on Gyeongju 5.8 ML EQ
Authors: Park Sangki , Kim Wooseok , Lee Jonghyun , Baek Yong
Published: September 2018

Slope failure is a natural hazard occurring around the world and can lead to severe damage of properties and loss of lives. Even in stabilized slopes, changes in external loads, such as those from earthquakes, may cause slope failure and collapse, generating social impacts and, eventually causing loss of lives. In this research, the slope stability changes caused by the Gyeongju earthquake, which occurred on 12 September 2016, are numerically analyzed in a slope located in the Gyeongju area, South Korea. Slope property data, collected through an on-site survey, was used in the analysis. Additionally, slope stability changes with and without the earthquake were analyzed and compared. The analysis was performed within a peak ground acceleration (PGA) range of 0.0 (g)–2.0 (g) to identify the correlation between the slope safety factor and peak ground acceleration. The correlation between the slope safety factor and peak ground acceleration could be used as a reference for performing on-site slope stability evaluations. It also provides a reference for design and earthquake stability improvements in the slopes of road and tunnel construction projects, thus supporting the attainment of slope stability in South Korea.
Analysis of Regional Disparities in Romania from an Entrepreneurial Perspective
Authors: Nica Elvira , Sima Violeta , Gheorghe Ileana , Drugau-Constantin Andreea , Mirica (Dumitrescu) Catalina Oana Mirica
Published: September 2018

This article proposes a synthetic analysis of the development level of regions in Romania with the concentration/diversification model, using Gini coefficients and Lorenz curve, based on the current statistical indicators. Knowing the degree of concentration and also the influence factors is useful in making decisions and setting regional policy measures. The analysis of regional disparities based on a series of data and indicators provided by The Romanian National Institute of Statistics for 2007–2016. The main findings highlight a deepening of the regional disparities in Romania in 2016 compared with 2007 explained mainly by the fact that the Bucharest–Ilfov region registered an economic development much above the other regions.