bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospects and challenges for sustainable sanitation in developed nations: a critical review
Authors: Brands Edwin
Published: April 2014

Serious sanitation challenges are not confined to developing nations. Infrastructure costs, nutrient losses and related ubiquitous surface water impairments, energy demands, and sludge disposal problems have led many to question the long-term sustainability of conventional centralized sanitation in developed nations. Such concerns have resulted in the development of a body of literature and practices aimed at making sanitation more sustainable. This paper has two major aims: (i) provide a representative multidisciplinary (including engineering, natural sciences, and social sciences) synthesis of literature on sustainable sanitation in developed nations over the past 15 years, and (ii) raise consciousness of sustainable sanitation approaches in regions and disciplines where this area of inquiry has at least partly been neglected. Literature included in the review was identified by searching the ISI Web of Knowledge and by “mining” key review papers that already synthesized literature on topics such as ecological sanitation, excreta as fertilizer, and wastewater reuse. The sustainability challenges faced by conventional sanitation are discussed first, followed by a review of efforts in two major areas of sustainable sanitation: (i) incremental improvements to conventional centralized sanitation, and (ii) source separation and decentralization (SSD). Based on the literature review, there does not appear to be a perfect solution to the sanitation challenges (e.g., water use and pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient and micropollutant releases) faced by society. Compared with SSD, there is a much broader knowledge base on the construction, operation, and maintenance of conventional sanitation systems. And there are significant opportunities for incremental improvements (e.g., reduction of water, energy use), but also significant drawbacks such as the costs of maintaining ageing infrastructure and the mixing of domestic, storm, and industrial effluents. On the other hand, SSD is conceptually promising, and significant progress has been made over the last two decades in basic research and in exploring various SSD models. But SSD is still in its relative infancy: literature and pilot projects are regionally limited and significant logistical, behavioral, regulatory, and other challenges remain. Contributions that meaningfully address sanitation “software” or social perspectives are, therefore, urgently needed from social science fields including economics, policy, and behavioral psychology. Progress toward achieving sustainable sanitation can be aided by addressing four major areas: (i) defining sustainability goals and benchmarks, (ii) raising societal awareness of sanitation problems, (iii) broadening the societal and geographical scope of the research, and (iv) more thoroughly exploring barriers to adapting or changing sanitation systems.
Predominance of a single phylogenetic species in colonization events among a sextet of decollate land snail,Rumina decollata(Mollusca: Pulmonata: Subulinidae), species
Authors: Prévot Vanya , Jordaens Kurt , Backeljau Thierry
Published: April 2014

The hermaphroditic, facultatively selfing, land snail Rumina decollata is a common, widespread species that is indigenous to the Mediterranean region and that has been introduced to many other regions of the world. However, recent DNA sequence analyses have indicated that R. decollata is a complex of several phylogenetic species, two of which correspond to previously distinguished allozyme strains with different body colors (light vs. dark) and life history characteristics. Against this background, this paper attempts to identify which of these phylogenetic species have been introduced elsewhere in the world. Based on a comparative DNA sequence analysis of putatively introduced populations from South America, North America, Japan, and the North Atlantic Islands versus native Mediterranean populations, it is shown that all putatively introduced populations belong to a single phylogenetic species that was previously recognized as the dark morph. Hence, the colonizing and invasive character of R. decollata seems to be due to this phylogenetic species. Nevertheless, in its native area the dark morph is supposed to be outcompeted when sympatric with the light morph of R. decollata. This issue is briefly discussed and the Iberian Peninsula is tentatively proposed as an important source for introduced R. decollata populations outside Europe.
IMPROVING CONSISTENCY EVALUATION IN FUZZY MULTI-ATTRIBUTE PAIRWISE COMPARISON-BASED DECISION-MAKING METHODS
Authors: SHAMS FARHAD , MOHAMED SHERIF , FAYEK AMINAH ROBINSON
Published: April 2014

A typical approach to handle the complexity of multi-faceted decision-making problems is to use multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) methods based on pairwise comparisons. Fuzzy set theory has also been employed to cope with the uncertainty and vagueness involved in conducting the comparisons between components of a decision model. An important issue regarding the reliability of the output is the consistency of pairwise comparisons provided by the decision maker(s). Using the MADM method developed by Lu et al. (2007) as a foundation, this paper proposes an algorithm for evaluating the consistency level of pairwise comparison matrices, where linguistic data are used. A crisp numeric scale has been introduced to consider the priority of linguistic data and to avoid the complexity of handling fuzzy calculations in consistency evaluation of pairwise comparison matrices. As an advantage, the proposed method of consistency evaluation is capable of assessing the degree of inconsistency among the pairwise comparisons. Therefore, the acceptance or rejection of the pairwise comparisons can be determined based on the desired degree of tolerance in accepting inconsistent judgments. An application of a revised MADM method is then demonstrated in a case study involving flood mitigation project selection in Australia.
Influence of spin exchange anisotropy on phase diagram of the one-dimensional t-U-V-J⊥-Jz model
Authors: Lin Eryin , Ding Hanqin , Zhang Jun
Published: April 2014

In this paper, we study analytically a one-dimensional half-filled Hubbard model with nearest-neighbor Coulomb repulsion (V) and anisotropic spin exchange (J⊥ ≠ Jz) via the bosonization and renormalization-group (RG) techniques, and establish the rich phase diagrams based on the charge-spin separation hypothesis in the weak-coupling regime. The spin exchange anisotropy induces a non-critical behavior of spin correlations. The result indicates that the spin exchange anisotropy has an important impact on the topological phase diagram of the 1D extended Hubbard model.
NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS OF QUASI-STATIC INDENTATION AND LOW VELOCITY IMPACT OF ROHACELL 51 WF FOAM
Authors: FLORES-JOHNSON E. A. , LI Q. M. , SHEN LUMING
Published: April 2014

Numerical simulations of quasi-static indentation and low velocity impact of low density polymethacrylimide (PMI) Rohacell 51 WF foam using indenters with different nose shapes (conical, truncated-conical, hemi-spherical and flat) were carried out using the finite element code LS-DYNA. A 2D axisymmetric model was generated. A strain-rate dependent material model and r-adaptive remeshing were used for low velocity impact simulations. Numerical predictions matched the available experimental data very well. Moreover, the predicted resistance force closely matched the empirical results. The results demonstrated the ability of the model to reproduce the deformation mechanisms of the penetration process of Rohacell 51 WF foam.
CHARACTERIZING THE PERFORMANCE OF A HIGH-SPEED ADC FOR THE SMA DIGITAL BACKEND
Authors: PATEL N. A. , WILSON R. W. , PRIMIANI R. , WEINTROUB J. , TEST J. , YOUNG K.
Published: April 2014

We report on tests of a 5 Gs/s analog-to-digital converter (ADC) used in the new Submillimeter Array (SMA) Digital Backend (DBE). The ADC is e2v EV8AQ160, with 8-bit resolution and 4 interleaved cores, operated in single-channel mode. We measured the frequency response, Signal to Noise and Distortion (SINAD), Spurious Free Dynamic Range (SFDR), Noise Power Ratio and intermodulation distortion over the bandwidth of 2.25 GHz. The performance of this ADC is found to be adequate for our application in the SMA DBE. We describe the procedure of aligning the four cores for adjustments of offset, gain and phase parameters which improve the performance of the ADC, particularly in SINAD and SFDR.
A SCALABLE HYBRID FPGA/GPU FX CORRELATOR
Authors: KOCZ J. , GREENHILL L. J. , BARSDELL B. R. , BERNARDI G. , JAMESON A. , CLARK M. A. , CRAIG J. , PRICE D. , TAYLOR G. B. , SCHINZEL F. , WERTHIMER D.
Published: April 2014

Radio astronomical imaging arrays comprising large numbers of antennas, O(102–103), have posed a signal processing challenge because of the required O (N2) cross correlation of signals from each antenna and requisite signal routing. This motivated the implementation of a Packetized Correlator architecture that applies Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) to the O (N) "F-stage" transforming time domain to frequency domain data, and Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) to the O (N2) "X-stage" performing an outer product among spectra for each antenna. The design is readily scalable to at least O(103) antennas. Fringes, visibility amplitudes and sky image results obtained during field testing are presented.
A HIGH TEMPERATURE SUPERCONDUCTOR MICROWAVE FILTER WORKING IN C-BAND FOR THE SARDINIA RADIO TELESCOPE
Authors: BOLLI P. , CRESCI L. , HUANG F. , MARIOTTI S. , PANELLA D.
Published: April 2014

A planar band-pass filter based on High Temperature Superconductor (HTS) has been designed for possible implementation in the cryogenic front-end of the C-band receiver for the Sardinia Radio Telescope. The band-pass filter is designed to operate at relatively high frequencies: center frequency 6.7 GHz with 30% bandwidth. Seven nominally identical filters have been fabricated to test different carrier materials and connector types aimed to keep the fabrication of the HTS filter simpler and more cost competitive. In addition to the conventional approach, silver plating, copper carriers and SMA connectors have been used. Cryogenic scattering parameter measurements show a good agreement with numerical results: the average of the transmission losses turns out to be in the range 0.15–0.25 dB depending on the prototypes, whereas the reflection coefficient is below -16 dB. The insertion loss has been also measured by using a radiometric approach based on the cold attenuator method showing consistent results with those given by the Vector Network Analyzer. Multiple cool-down measurements have been performed successfully proving the data repeatability both in short- and medium-term. Concerning alternative technical solutions, the SMA connectors and silver plating appear to be valid options whereas the copper carriers are inclined to destroy the circuit. Finally, numerical simulations and experimental measurements on a traditional copper filter operating at 20 K show that the HTS filter improves the losses of about 0.2 dB with respect to the copper one.
A MULTI-BEAM RADIO TRANSIENT DETECTOR WITH REAL-TIME DE-DISPERSION OVER A WIDE DM RANGE
Authors: CLARKE N. , D'ADDARIO L. , NAVARRO R. , TRINH J.
Published: April 2014

Isolated, short dispersed pulses of radio emission of unknown origin have been reported and there is strong interest in wide-field, sensitive searches for such events. To achieve high sensitivity, large collecting area is needed and dispersion due to the interstellar medium should be removed. To survey a large part of the sky in reasonable time, a telescope that forms multiple simultaneous beams is desirable. We have developed a novel FPGA-based transient search engine that is suitable for these circumstances. It accepts short-integration-time spectral power measurements from each beam of the telescope, performs incoherent de-dispersion simultaneously for each of a wide range of dispersion measure (DM) values, and automatically searches the de-dispersed time series for pulse-like events. If the telescope provides buffering of the raw voltage samples of each beam, then our system can provide trigger signals to allow data in those buffers to be saved when a tentative detection occurs; this can be done with a latency of tens of ms, and only the buffers for beams with detections need to be saved. In one version of our implementation, intended for the ASKAP array of 36 antennas (currently under construction in Australia), 36 beams are simultaneously de-dispersed for 448 different DMs with an integration time of 1.0 ms. In the absence of such a multi-beam telescope, we have built a second version that handles up to 6 beams at 0.1 ms integration time and 512 DMs. We have deployed and tested this at a 34-m antenna of the Deep Space Network in Goldstone, California. A third version that processes up to 6 beams at an integration time of 2.0 ms and 1,024 DMs has been built and deployed at the Murchison Widefield Array telescope.
A note on discounting and funding value adjustments for derivatives
Authors: Han Meng , He Yeqi , Zhang Hu
Published: April 2014

In this paper, valuation of a derivative partially collateralized in a specific foreign currency defined in its credit support annex traded between default-free counterparties is studied. Two pricing approaches — by hedging and by expectation — are presented to obtain similar valuation formulae which are equivalent under certain conditions. Our findings show that the current marking-to-market value of such a derivative consists of three components: the price of the perfectly collateralized derivative (a.k.a. the price by collateral rate discounting), the value adjustment due to different funding spreads between the payoff currency and the collateral currency, and the value adjustment due to funding requirements of the uncollateralized exposure. These results generalize previous works on discounting for fully collateralized derivatives and on funding value adjustments for partially collateralized or uncollateralized derivatives.
Activating Vanadium’s Highest Oxidation State in the NASICON Structure
Authors: Mason Chad W. , Gocheva Irina , Hoster Harry E. , Yu Dennis Y.W.
Published: April 2014

The capacity and energy density of Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode material, for sodium ion batteries, was enhanced by partial substitution of iron in the octahedral vanadium site. Through this process, we show for the first time that the V4+/V5+ redox couple can be utilized in rhombohedral NASICON at above 4.0V vs. Na/Na+. At this juncture, we discovered that iron is unique in its ability to easily activate vanadium’s highest oxidation state. Furthermore, an additional 12% capacity is realized due to the increased sodium concentration in the synthesized compound.
Sodium Manganese Oxide Thin Films as Cathodes for Na-Ion Batteries
Authors: Baggetto Loic , Carroll Kyler J. , Unocic Raymond R , Bridges Craig A , Meng Ying Shirley , Veith Gabriel M
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the fabrication and characterization of sodium manganese oxide cathode thin films for rechargeable Na-ion batteries. Layered oxide compounds of nominal compositions Na0.6MnO2 and Na1.0MnO2 have been prepared by radio frequency magnetron sputtering and post-annealing at high temperatures under various conditions. The Na0.6MnO2 thin films possess either a hexagonal or orthorhombic structure while the Na1.0MnO2 films crystallize in a monoclinic structure, as shown by X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption spectroscopy results. The potential profiles of the film cathodes are characterized by features similar to those measured for the powders and exhibit reversible storage capacities in the range of 50-60 mAh cm-2 mm-1, which correspond to about 120-140 mAh g-1, and are maintained over 80 cycles.
SnSb Carbon Composite Anode in a SnSb_C/NaNi1/3Mn1/3Fe1/3O2 Na-Ion Battery
Authors: Zhou Dehua , Slater Michael , Kim Donghan , Lee Eungje , Jorne Jacob , Johnson Christopher
Published: April 2014

Tin and antimony metals were high-energy ball-milled with carbon in order to create a SnSb_C alloy carbon composite worthy of cycling as a high-capacity 500 mAh/g anode in a full cell Na-ion battery. In the cell, coupled with a cathode consisting of a layered transition metal oxide cathode NaNi1/3Mn1/3Fe1/3O2, was cycled for over fifty cycles with near 100% coulombic efficiency, yielding a resultant gravimetric energy density of 145 Wh/kg (based on electrode material only), and an even better volumetric energy density of 215 Wh/L due to the high density inherent in the SnSb_C anode. In situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction measurements indicate a progressive amorphization of the SnSb during sodiation without any observable binary sodium–tin or sodium-antimony alloy phase formation. The electrochemically active amorphous phase remains present during desodiation
Liquid Aluminum Air Battery Operated at High Temperature
Authors: Ohashi Masato
Published: April 2014

Principle of a unique metal air battery system has been tested. First, solid oxide electrode (SOE) is used to transport oxygen ion from cathode to anode which avoids the production of metal oxide on the cathode. Secondly, liquid anode is used to make the metal oxide easily diffuse internally to gain high electric power. Thirdly, aluminum metal is used for the anode because of its high energy density and worldwide availability. These aspects provide high power, higher energy, and low cost battery.
Electrochemical Splitting of LiF: A New Approach to Lithium-Ion Battery Materials
Authors: Dimov Nikolay , Kitajou Ayuko , Hori Hironobu , Kobayashi Eiji , Okada Shigeto
Published: April 2014

Composites of LiF and lithium-free manganese compounds (MnF2 and MnOx) were prepared by high-energy ball milling and their electrochemical activities as cathode were investigated. Within the voltage range of 1.5 - 4.8 V, MnOx/LiF composites exhibited reversible reactivity with a sloping voltage profile, while MnF2/LiF composites showed no reactivity. Reversible Li+ extraction from the MnOx/LiF composites was observed in a full cell configuration with graphite anode, where total Li+ balance was monitored by chemical analysis of the anode and the cathode. Ex-situ X-ray diffraction and X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) experiments further confirmed that during the first charge LiF is split electrochemically and the Mn oxidation state changes accordingly, but the MnOx/LiF remained amorphous. Composites containing the redox oxide and the lithium compound as two separate solid phases could be used as a source of Li+ and it offers a new type of cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
Study of the Electrochemical Behavior of Dual-Graphite Cells Using Ionic Liquid-Based Electrolytes
Authors: Rothermel Sergej , Meister Paul , Fromm Olga , Huesker Jessica , Meyer Hinrich Wilhelm , Winter Martin , Placke Tobias
Published: April 2014

Dual-ion cells based on the anion intercalation into a graphite positive electrode have been proposed as electrochemical energy storage devices. In this set-up, the electrolyte, in this case a mixture of N-butyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (Pyr14TFSI) and lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiTFSI) acts not only as charge carrier, but also as active material. Since the compatibility of this ionic liquid-based electrolyte mixture with graphitic anodes is relatively poor and not sufficient, the selection of the anode materials for the dual-ion system was limited to metallic lithium or Li4Ti5O12
so far. In this work, we present promising results concerning the use of graphite as both the anode and cathode material in a so-called “dual-graphite cell”. The Pyr14TFSI-LiTFSI ionic liquid electrolyte is used in combination with the SEI-forming additive ethylene sulfite (ES) and allows a stable and highly reversible lithium ion and TFSI- anion intercalation/de-intercalation into the graphite anode and cathode, respectively.
On a New Room Temperature and Solvent Free Carbon Coating Process for Battery Electrode Materials: Application to Selected Compounds
Authors: Ponrouch Alexandre , Palacín María Rosa
Published: April 2014

Carbon coating on battery electrode active material powders is currently achieved through chemical procedures involving dispersing the powder in a liquid medium with a carbon precursor followed by thermolysis at high temperatures (ca. 700°C). This procedure has the drawback of not being applicable to materials which may decompose or reduce under such conditions. We present herein an alternative procedure based on physical deposition of carbon, carried out at room temperature under dry conditions, hence avoiding the limitations mentioned above and being generally applicable to any electrode active material. Homogeneous conformal coating was achieved and results are herein presented regarding improved electronic conductivity and limited side reactions recorded upon oxidation and reduction for carbon coated powder active materials in Li cells.
Reactivity of Electrolyte with the Surface of 5-Volts Positive Electrode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Guerfi Abdelbast , Trottier Julie , Gagnon Catherine , Liu Dong , Hovington Pierre , Zaghib Karim , Mauger Alain , Groult Henri , Julien Christian M
Published: April 2014

We examine the reactivity of the non-aqueous electrolyte at the surface of 5-volts positive electrode materials for Li-ion batteries. LiPF6-based electrolytes include various solutes as ethylene carbonate (EC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC), diethyl carbonate (DEC) and 1,2-dimethoxyethane (DME), which react with the surface of LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 in the voltage range 3.0–4.9 V vs. Li0/Li+. Effects with mixed salts and electrolyte additive are also examined.
Study of the Electrochemical Intercalation of Different Anions from Non-Aqueous Electrolytes into a Graphite-Based Cathode
Authors: Fromm Olga , Meister Paul , Qi Xin , Rothermel Sergej , Huesker Jessica , Meyer Hinrich Wilhelm , Winter Martin , Placke Tobias
Published: April 2014

Different types of carbonaceous materials, such as graphite and carbon black, are typically used as conductive additives in composite electrodes for lithium-ion cells. Since the next generation cathode materials, the so-called 5 V materials like LiCoPO4, operate at potentials above 4.5 V vs. Li/Li+, the issue of anion intercalation into the conductive carbon additive needs to be seriously considered. The anion intercalation from organic-solvent based electrolytes into more graphitic carbons can be accompanied by a solvent co-intercalation reaction, which may lead to the destruction of the graphite structure (graphite exfoliation) and to accelerated electrolyte degradation. These detrimental side reactions may result in a degradation of the overall cathode electrode performance and therefore need to be understood. In this contribution, the electrochemical intercalation of different anions, namely hexafluorophosphate, bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide and bis(pentafluoroethanesulfonyl) imide, from an organic solvent-based electrolyte into a graphite-based cathode is evaluated with respect to the reversible capacity and coulombic efficiency.
Structural Analysis and Electrochemical Studies of Carbon Coated Li4Ti5O12 Particles Used as Anode for Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Sun Xiangcheng , Hegde Manu , Wang Jian , Zhang Yuefei , Liao Jinyun , Radovanovic Pavle V. , Cui Bo
Published: April 2014

Carbon coated Li4Ti5O12 (C-LTO) particles have been synthesized by hydrothermal method and high-temperature calcination process. Nanostructure and carbon-coating has been characterized in detail by X-ray diffraction (XRD), high resolution TEM (HR-TEM), selected electron diffraction (SAED), and scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) combined with X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy. The prepared particles are comprised of highly crystalline spinel-type Li4Ti5O12 with the size range of 20-70 nm. HR-TEM imaging and STXM-XANES spectromicrocopy confirmed the amorphous carbon layer uniformly covered on the surface of single LTO particles with optimized content and coating thickness (~5 nm). The electrochemical performance of C-LTO particles as an anode in lithium-ion batteries is evaluated, demonstrating both improved rate capability and cycling performance, which was attributed to the enhanced electron transport/high electrical conductivity and fast lithium-ion insertion/extraction, as a result of uniform and optimized amorphous carbon coating on the C-LTO particles.
Potential Step Study of Intercalation Processes
Authors: Gerasimenko Yuriy Y. , Kucherenko Svetlana V. , Lipkin Semen M. , Lipkin Mikhail Semenovich
Published: April 2014

Potential step technique of intercalation process study is used for lithium intercalation in ferritic-carbon alloys, hydrogen insertion in titanium and anodic oxidation of nickel oxide and nickel powders. As a result it was found, that there are a lot of general regularities of intercalation processes, which can express in terms of piecewise EMF function and staging of kinetic steps of intercalation processes.
A Physically Based Analytical Model to Predict Quantized Eigen Energies and Wave Functions Incorporating Penetration Effect
Authors: Chowdhury Nadim , Ahmed Imtiaz , Azim Zubair Al , Alam Md. Hasibul , Niaz Iftikhar Ahmad , Khosru Quazi D. M.
Published: April 2014

We propose a physically based analytical compact model to calculate Eigen energies and Wave functions which incorporates penetration effect. The model is applicable for a quantum well structure that frequently appears in modern nano-scale devices. This model is equally applicable for both silicon and III-V devices. Unlike other models already available in the literature, our model can accurately predict all the eigen energies without the inclusion of any fitting parameters. The validity of our model has been checked with numerical simulations and the results show significantly better agreement compared to the available methods.
Two-Step Microwave Synthesis of Highly Dispersed Ordered Intermetallic PtPb Nanoparticles on Carbon Black
Authors: Jeevagan Arockiam John , Gunji Takao , Sawano Naoyuki , Saravanan Govindachetty , Kojima Taiki , Kaneko Shingo , Kobayashi Genki , Matsumoto Futoshi
Published: April 2014

This article describes a new two-step microwave synthesis method for the preparation of highly dispersed, ordered intermetallic PtPb nanoparticles (NPs) on carbon black (CB). After the highly dispersed Pt NPs/CB were prepared, ordered intermetallic PtPb NPs were formed on CB via the reaction of the CB-supported Pt NPs and a Pb precursor in the presence of a reducing agent under microwave irradiation. The pXRD pattern of the PtPb NPs/CB synthesized via the two-step microwave synthesis method indicated the formation of an ordered intermetallic phase of PtPb in nanoparticle form. The degree of dispersion of the PtPb NPs on CB was virtually the same as that of Pt/CB on CB. The synthesized intermetallic PtPb NPs showed a mass activity of +0.57 mA μg-1 (weight of PtPb) at + 0.2 V (vs. Ag/AgCl, KCl sat.) toward the oxidation of formic acid (0.5 M) in an aqueous solution of 0.1 M sulfuric acid.
A Biosensor Based on Magnetic Resonance Relaxation
Authors: Sullivan MariAnne , Slater Daniel , Prorok Bart Charles
Published: April 2014

Detection methods for biological pathogens have been a growing research topic. Many techniques are promising, but there is still work to be done. This work uses a novel technique of magnetic resonance relaxation for the detection of pathogens. By conjugating magnetic particles with binding agents to specific targets, nuclear magnetic resonance can be used for detection. Relaxation time, T2, of the protons in water is monitored and changes in this value result in the detection of the pathogens. This technique is ideal because of four major improvements: contact statistics, sample preparation, non-specific binding concerns, and ease and cost of use.
Photophysical and Electrochemical Properties of Novel Luminescent and Photoconductive Copolymers
Authors: Cimrová Věra , Výprachtický Drahomír , Kmínek Ivan , Dzhabarov Vagif , Pokorná Veronika
Published: April 2014

Photophysical and electrochemical properties of novel luminescent carbazole-based, carbazole-fluorene and fluorene-bithiophene copolymers, and photoconductive copolymers containing 4,6- bis(3-dodecylthien-2-yl)thieno[3,4-c][1,2,5]thiadiazole as electron acceptor unit and various electron donor unit (9,9-dioctylfluorene, 9,9-bis(2-ethylhexyl)fluorene, 2,5-bis(dodecyloxy)benzene, 2,5- didodecylbenzene, 3,3′-didodecyl-2,2′-bithiophene, 2,7-carbazole or dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]silole derivatives) were studied. Effects of molecular weight and side-chain nature and length on photophysical properties are reported. Luminescent carbazolebased and carbazole-fluorene copolymers exhibited an intense photoluminescent (PL) emission in blue spectral region with maxima at about 417-419 nm in tetrahydrofuran (THF) solutions and at 430-436 nm in thin films, whereas 9,9-dihexadecylfluorenebithiophene copolymers PL emission in green spectral region with maxima at about 495 nm in THF solutions and at 542 nm in thin films. The donor-acceptor copolymers absorb in a long-wavelength region up to near infrared and possess a narrow optical band gap in the range of 1.1 - 1.4 eV depending on the character of donor units and alkyl side-chain nature. They exhibited ambipolar redox properties, high electron affinity, electrochromic and thermochromic behavior.
Galvanic Corrosion Behavior of Zinc/Steel Couple under Thin Electrolyte Layer
Authors: Wen Lei , Jin Ying , Cheng Jie , Huang Feifei -F.
Published: April 2014

Galvanic corrosion exists widely in atmospheric environment. In this study, the most common used structure material - low carbon steel and its protective coating materials - zinc were chosen to form the galvanic couple, and coplanar zinc/steel galvanic corrosion behavior has been investigated by electrochemical methods and scanning electrochemical method under thin electrolyte layer (TEL), simulating the atmospheric corrosion environment. The results indicate that the corrosion resistance of steel and zinc is sensitive to the TEL thickness. The cathodic current density and the diameter of capacitive arc of steel increase and decrease respectively with the decreasing TEL thickness. When coupled together, galvanic current between zinc and steel is sensitive to the TEL thickness and cathode/anode area ratio. Steel can be well protected when coupled with zinc under present atmospheric corrosion environments.
Evaluation of the Maximum Pit Size Model on Stainless Steel under Atmospheric Conditions
Authors: Woldemedhin Michael T. , Kelly Robert G.
Published: April 2014

Literature reports on the pit sizes from long-term atmospheric exposure of stainless steel samples show a limiting pit size where the pit size becomes invariant after few years of exposure. A model for determining the maximum pit size model has been published recently which gives a computational analysis of the maximum pit size possible based on the maximum cathode current available to a growing pit at a certain set of atmospheric conditions. Results from the validation of the maximum pit size model in its ability in predicting maximum pit size observed under laboratory controlled atmospheric exposure tests are presented in this paper.
Integrated Ozone Microreactor Technology for Water Treatment
Authors: Shirke Amol , Li Suiqiong , Ebeling Daniel , Carter Michael T , Stetter Joseph R
Published: April 2014

Safe and clean potable water is a basic primary need for daily living and the ability to process water using minimal expenditure of resources provides tremendous advantages. In this work, we present ozone process technology being developed at KWJ Engineering to decontaminate recovered potable water and greywater with a small energy footprint. The technology involves the in-situ generation of ozone, a powerful broad spectrum disinfectant, generated from air. Unique microreactor technology integrated with a low power ozone source enables high efficiency mixing of water and ozone at high mass transfer rates for decontaminating a multitude of pathogens and chemical contaminants. The compactness and low power feature of microreactors and micro-ozone generators creates a portable and scalable system that can provide on the spot potable water in many situations such as disaster relief, rural communities and space habitats.
Pharmacokinetic and Biodistribution Assessment of a Near Infrared-Labeled PSMA-Specific Small Molecule in Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Kovar Joy L. , Cheung Lael L. , Simpson Melanie A. , Olive D. Michael
Published: April 2014

Prostate cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in men and often requires surgery. Use of near infrared (NIR) technologies to perform image-guided surgery may improve accurate delineation of tumor margins. To facilitate preclinical testing of such outcomes, here we developed and characterized a PSMA-targeted small molecule, YC-27. IRDye 800CW was conjugated to YC-27 or an anti-PSMA antibody used for reference. Human 22Rv1, PC3M-LN4, and/or LNCaP prostate tumor cells were exposed to the labeled compounds.In vivotargeting and clearance properties were determined in tumor-bearing mice. Organs and tumors were excised and imaged to assess probe localization. YC-27 exhibited a dose dependent increase in signal upon binding. Binding specificity and internalization were visualized by microscopy.In vitroandin vivoblocking studies confirmed YC-27 specificity.In vivo, YC-27 showed good tumor delineation and tissue contrast at doses as low as 0.25 nmole. YC-27 was cleared via the kidneys but bound the proximal tubules of the renal cortex and epididymis. Since PSMA is also broadly expressed on the neovasculature of most tumors, we expect YC-27 will have clinical utility for image-guided surgery and tumor resections.
Quantitative Feedback Control of Multiple Input Single Output Systems
Authors: Rico-Azagra Javier , Gil-Martínez Montserrat , Elso Jorge
Published: April 2014

This paper presents a robust feedback control solution for systems with multiple manipulated inputs and a single measurable output. A structure of parallel controllers achieves robust stability and robust disturbance rejection. Each controller uses the least possible amount of feedback at each frequency. The controller design is carried out in the Quantitative Feedback Theory framework. The method pursues a smart load sharing along the frequency spectrum,
where each branch must either collaborate in the control task or be inhibited
at each frequency. This reduces useless fatigue and saturation risk of actuators.
Different examples illustrate the ability to deal with complex control problems
that current MISO methodologies cannot solve. Main control challenges arise
due to the uncertainty of plant and disturbance models and when a fast‐slow
hierarchy of plants cannot be uniquely established.
Nanofer ZVI: Morphology, Particle Characteristics, Kinetics, and Applications
Authors: Eglal Mahmoud M. , Ramamurthy Amruthur S.
Published: April 2014

Nanofer zerovalent iron (nanofer ZVI) is a new and innovative nanomaterial capable of removing organic as well as inorganic contaminants in water. It displays a decrease in agglomeration, when it is coated with tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). TEOS imparts an increase in reactivity and stability to nanofer ZVI. Characteristics of nanofer ZVI were determined using scanning electron microscope/electron dispersive spectroscope (SEM/EDS), transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). Nanoparticle size varied from 20 to 100 nm and its surface area was in the range of 25–30 m2g−1. The present study examined its structure before and after kinetic experiments. Kinetic experiments indicated that adsorption of heavy metals [Pb (II), Cd (II), and Cu (II)] and TCE is very rapid during the initial step which is followed by a much slower second step. Removal rates of 99.7% for Pb (II), 99.2% for Cd (II), 99.9% for Cu (II), and 99.9% for TCE were achieved in less than 180 minutes. Lagergren models (LM), liquid film diffusion model (LFDM), and interparticle diffusion model (IDM) were used to understand the removal mechanism associated with nanofer ZVI. In this study, interactions of nanofer ZVI with individual metals as well as TCE are examined.
Consensus of Multiagent Systems with Packet Losses and Communication Delays Using a Novel Control Protocol
Authors: Yan Zheping , Wu Di , Zhang Wei , Liu Yibo
Published: April 2014

This paper studies the consensus problem of multiagent system with packet losses and communication delays under directed communication channels. Different from previous research results, a novel control protocol is proposed depending only on periodic sampling and transmitting data in order to be convenient for practical implementation. Due to the randomicity of transmission delays and packet losses, each agent updates its input value asynchronously at discrete time instants with synchronized time stamped information and evolves in continuous time. Consensus conditions for multiagent system consists of three typical dynamics including single integrator, double integrator, and high-order integrator that are all discussed in this paper. It is proved that, for single integrator agents and double integrator systems with only communication delays, consensusability can be ensured through stochastic matrix theory if the designed communication topology contains a directed spanning tree. While, for double integrator agents and high-order integrator agents with packet losses and communication delays, the interval system theory is introduced to prove the consensus of multiagent system under the condition that the designed communication topology is a directed spanning tree. Finally, simulations are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the proposed solutions.
Volumetric Modulated Arc Radiotherapy for Early Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Carcinoma: Is It Better Than the Conventional Static Beam Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy?
Authors: Wu Vincent Wing Cheung , Pun Man In , Lam Cho Pan , Mok To Wing , Mok Wah Wai
Published: April 2014

This study compared the performance of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques: single arc volumetric modulated arc therapy (SA-VMAT) and double arc volumetric modulated arc therapy (DA-VMAT) with the static beam conventional intensity modulated radiotherapy (C-IMRT) for non-small-cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC). Twelve stage I and II NSCLC patients were recruited and their planning CT with contoured planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs) was used for planning. Using the same dose constraints and planning objectives, the C-IMRT, SA-VMAT, and DA-VMAT plans were optimized. C-IMRT consisted of 7 static beams, while SA-VMAT and DA-VMAT plans consisted of one and two full gantry rotations, respectively. No significant difference was found among the three techniques in target homogeneity and conformity. Mean lung dose in C-IMRT plan was significantly lower than that in DA-VMAT planP=0.04. The ability of OAR sparing was similar among the three techniques, with no significant difference inV20,V10, orV5of normal lungs, spinal cord, and heart. Less MUs were required in SA-VMAT and DA-VMAT. Besides, SA-VMAT required the shortest beam on time among the three techniques. In treatment of early stage NSCLC, no significant dosimetric superiority was shown by the VMAT techniques over C-IMRT and DA-VMAT over SA-VMAT.
Synthesis and Structural Study of the (N,N,N′,N′-Tetraethylethylenediamine)CdFe(CO)4 Dimer
Authors: Kolb Torsten , Arif Atta M. , Ernst Richard D.
Published: April 2014

The new [(teeda)CdFe(CO)4]2 complex has been isolated from the reaction of [(NH3)2CdFe(CO)4]n with tetraethylethylenediamine. Unlike previous structural reports of ligand adducts of [L2CdFe(CO)4]x complexes, which have all been trimeric species composed of six-membered Cd3Fe3 rings, the teeda complex crystallized as a dimer, analogous to [(2,2-bpy)ZnFe(CO)4]2. As in the zinc dimer, significant distortion arises from steric interactions between the axial carbonyl ligands on opposing iron centers. The complex sits on an inversion center, leading to two independent Cd–Fe distances, 2.7244(6) and 2.7433(6) Å, and crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/a with a = 14.8546(2) Å, b = 15.1647(3) Å, c = 15.5252(3) Å, β = 90.9517(12)°, and Dcalc = 1.719 g/cm3 at 150(1) K.
Effect of Cyclic Mechanical Stimulation on the Expression of Osteogenesis Genes in Human Intraoral Mesenchymal Stromal and Progenitor Cells
Authors: Lohberger Birgit , Kaltenegger Heike , Stuendl Nicole , Payer Michael , Rinner Beate , Leithner Andreas
Published: April 2014

We evaluated the effects of mechanical stimulation on the osteogenic differentiation of human intraoral mesenchymal stem and progenitor cells (MSPCs) using the Flexcell FX5K Tension System that mediated cyclic tensile stretch on the cells. MSPCs were isolated from human mandibular retromolar bones and characterized using flow cytometry. The positive expression of CD73, CD90, and CD105 and negativity for CD14, CD19, CD34, CD45, and HLA-DR confirmed the MSPC phenotype. Mean MSPC doubling time was30.4 ± 2.1 hrs. The percentage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release showed no significant difference between the mechanically stimulated groups and the unstimulated controls. Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR revealed that 10% continuous cyclic strain (0.5 Hz) for 7 and 14 days induced a significant increase in the mRNA expression of the osteogenesis-specific markers type-I collagen (Col1A1), osteonectin (SPARC), bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2), osteopontin (SPP1), and osteocalcin (BGLAP) in osteogenic differentiated MSPCs. Furthermore, mechanically stimulated groups produced significantly higher amounts of calcium deposited into the cultures and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). These results will contribute to a better understanding of strain-induced bone remodelling and will form the basis for the correct choice of applied force in oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Methods of Cell Propulsion through the Local Stroma in Breast Cancer
Authors: Davies Kerry J.
Published: April 2014

In the normal breast, cellular structures change cyclically in response to ovarian hormones. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and differentiation are integral processes that are precisely regulated. Normal epithelial cells depend on the formation of intercellular adhesion contacts to form a continuous sheet of stratifying cell layers that are attached to one and other horizontally and vertically. Cells migrate by extending membrane protrusions to explore the extracellular space locating their targets in a chemotactic manner. The formation of cell protrusions is driven by the assembly of actin filaments at the leading edge. Reorganisation is regulated by a highly integrated signalling cascade that transduces extracellular stimuli to the actin filaments. This signalling cascade is governed by GTPases which act as molecular switches leading to actin polymerisation and the formation of filopodia and lamellipodia. This process is linked to downstream molecules known collectively as WASP proteins, which, in the presence of cortactin, form a complex leading to nucleation and formation of branched filaments. In breast cancer, the cortactin is over expressed leading to increased cellular motility and invasiveness. This hugely complex and integrated signalling cascade transduces extracellular stimuli. There are multiple genes related to cell motility which are dysregulated in human breast cancers.
Enhanced ID-Based Authentication Scheme Using OTP in Smart Grid AMI Environment
Authors: Yeo Sang-Soo , Park Dae-il , Jung Young-Ae
Published: April 2014

This paper presents the vulnerabilities analyses of KL scheme which is an ID-based authentication scheme for AMI network attached SCADA in smart grid and proposes a security-enhanced authentication scheme which satisfies forward secrecy as well as security requirements introduced in KL scheme and also other existing schemes. The proposed scheme uses MDMS which is the supervising system located in an electrical company as a time-synchronizing server in order to synchronize smart devices at home and conducts authentication between smart meter and smart devices using a new secret value generated by an OTP generator every session. The proposed scheme has forward secrecy, so it increases overall security, but its communication and computation overhead reduce its performance slightly, comparing the existing schemes. Nonetheless, hardware specification and communication bandwidth of smart devices will have better conditions continuously, so the proposed scheme would be a good choice for secure AMI environment.
Adaptive Control Using Fully Online Sequential‐Extreme Learning Machine and a Case Study on Engine Air‐Fuel Ratio Regulation
Authors: Wong Pak Kin , Vong Chi Man , Gao Xiang Hui , Wong Ka In
Published: April 2014

Most adaptive neural control schemes are based on stochastic gradient‐descent backpropagation (SGBP), which suffers from local minima problem. Although the recently proposed regularized online sequential‐extreme learning machine (ReOS‐ELM) can overcome this issue, it requires a batch of representative initial training data to construct a base model before online learning. The initial data is usually difficult to collect in adaptive control applications. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved version of ReOS‐ELM, entitled fully online sequential‐extreme learning machine (FOS‐ELM). While retaining the advantages of ReOS‐ELM, FOS‐ELM discards the initial training phase, and hence becomes suitable for adaptive control applications. To demonstrate its effectiveness, FOS‐ELM was applied to the adaptive control of engine air‐fuel ratio based on a simulated engine model. Besides, controller parameters were also analyzed, in which it is found that large hidden node number with small regularization parameter leads to the best performance. A comparison among FOS‐ELM and SGBP was also conducted. The result indicates that FOS‐ELM achieves better tracking and convergence performance than SGBP, since FOS‐ELM tends to learn the unknown engine model globally whereas SGBP tends to “forget” what it has learnt. This implies that FOS‐ELM is more preferable for adaptive control applications.
Pu-Erh Tea Extract Induces the Degradation of FET Family Proteins Involved in the Pathogenesis of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Yu Yang , Hayashi Shuhei , Cai Xianbin , Fang Chongye , Shi Wei , Tsutsui Hiroko , Sheng Jun
Published: April 2014

FET family proteins consist of fused in sarcoma/translocated in liposarcoma (FUS/TLS), Ewing's sarcoma (EWS), and TATA-binding protein-associated factor 15 (TAF15). Mutations in the copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1), TAR DNA-binding protein 43 (TDP-43), and FET family proteins are associated with the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a fatal neurodegenerative disease. There is currently no cure for this disease and few effective treatments are available. Epidemiological studies indicate that the consumption of tea is associated with a reduced risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases. The results of this study revealed that components of a pu-erh tea extract (PTE) interacted with FET family proteins but not with TDP-43 or SOD1. PTE induced the degradation of FET family proteins but had no effects on TDP-43 or SOD1. The most frequently occurring ALS-linked FUS/TLS mutant protein, R521C FUS/TLS, was also degraded in the presence of PTE. Furthermore, ammonium chloride, a lysosome inhibitor, but not lactacystin, a proteasome inhibitor, reduced the degradation of FUS/TLS protein by PTE. PTE significantly reduced the incorporation of R521C FUS/TLS into stress granules under stress conditions. These findings suggest that PTE may have beneficial health effects, including preventing the onset of FET family protein-associated neurodegenerative diseases and delaying the progression of ALS by inhibiting the cytoplasmic aggregation of FET family proteins.