bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elastic properties of a swollen polyacrylamide (PAAm) gel doped with various multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNT) contents
Authors: Evingür Gülşen Akın , Pekcan Önder
Published: May 2017

The toughness UT and shear modulus S of polyacrylamide (PAAm) – multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWNTs) composites were studied with various MWNT contents. These composites were prepared via free radical crosslinking copolymerization with different amounts of MWNT varying in the range between 0.1 and 50 wt.-%. The MWNT content dependency of the shear modulus of the composites due to volume phase transition was measured using tensile testing at 30 °C. It was observed that the composite preserves the ability to undergo the volume phase transition and its elastic modulus is strongly dependent on the MWNT content. The observed shear modulus first increased and then decreased above 1 wt.-% MWNT content during such loading tests. The toughness showed exactly the reverse behavior dependent on the MWNT content, as compared to the elasticity and as expected.
Mechanical testing and analysis of composite parts adhesively joined under tensile load
Authors: Sülü İsmail Yasin
Published: May 2017

In this paper, composite parts bonded with embedded single lap joint (SLJ) subjected to tensile load were analyzed by using 3D finite element method (FEM). In the analysis, the composite parts are carbon/epoxy (AS4/3501-6) with different fiber orientation angles and the adhesive is DP 410. The models for the numerical analyses were generated by using ANSYS software package. The finite element analyses (FEA) were carried out to predict the failure loads. Stress in x-, y- and z-directions, shear stresses and the von-Mises stresses on adhesive were obtained at the time of the failure for predetermined parameters. Consequently, the effects of orientation angles, overlap widths and length, and adhesive layer were examined. The most effective parameters were determined for composite parts adhesively bonded with embedded single lap joint.
Simulation of diffusion using a modular cell dynamic simulation system
Authors: Leberecht Christoph , Heinke Florian , Labudde Dirk
Published: May 2017

A variety of mathematical models is used to describe and simulate the multitude of natural processes examined in life sciences. In this paper we present a scalable and adjustable foundation for the simulation of natural systems. Based on neighborhood relations in graphs and the complex interactions in cellular automata, the model uses recurrence relations to simulate changes on a mesoscopic scale. This implicit definition allows for the manipulation of every aspect of the model even during simulation. The definition of value rules ω facilitates the accumulation of change during time steps. Those changes may result from different physical, chemical or biological phenomena. Value rules can be combined into modules, which in turn can be used to create baseline models. Exemplarily, a value rule for the diffusion of chemical substances was designed and its applicability is demonstrated. Finally, the stability and accuracy of the solutions is analyzed.
Effect of genetic and non-genetic factors on milk production performance of Holstein-Friesian×Local crossbreds at the villages of Noakhali district in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Farukul , Faruque Muhammad Omar , Ferdous Fowjia , Joya Sifat Hossain , Islam Rafiqul , Hossain Md Shamsul
Published: April 2017

A total of 210 Holstein Friesian (HF) × Local crossbred cattle were examined to collect data like, test day milk production (MT), peak milk production (PM), lactation period (LD), green grass used the day before test milk production (GG), cost involved to feed the cow with concentrate feed on the day before test milk production (CP), age, body weight of cows (BW) and ancestry of test cows to define the grade. The data were collected using a pre-structured questionnaire at the villages of Noakhali district in Bangladesh during October to November 2016.The effect of grades, age, body weight, concentrate feed and green grass on milk production were evaluated. To study the effects, Duncans Multiple Range Test and Pearsons correlation coefficient were performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Positive correlation of MT with CP (0.794) and GG (0.453) were estimated. Ages of cows did not affect MT, PM and LD significantly. In grade two, the highest, MT (18.75±2.62 liter/cow/day) and PM (20.75±2.62 liter/cow/day) were reported for body weight group 3 while, the longest LD (219.88±0.47) was reported under body weight group 2. However, under grade three in body weight group 3, MT, PM and LD were 15.57±0.78 liter/cow/day, 18.00±0.78 liter/cow/day and 218.79±0.80 days/cow, respectively. Present study might be suggested that body weight group 3 under grade three was better for MT and PM while, body weight group 2 was better for LD but to come up with final decisions in this regard, further study addressing more numbers of crossbred cows with defined exotic blood percentages under different grades, seasons of calving, parity, feed and water management, housing, healthcare and farmers socioeconomic status would be advisable. Finally, it might be indicated that grades, bodyweight groups, CP and GG affected milk production at the villages of Noakhali district in Bangladesh.Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.4(1): 21-28, April 2017
Enhanced Plant Performance in Cicer arietinum L. Due to the Addition of a Combination of Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria
Authors: Pérez-Fernández María , Alexander Valentine
Published: May 2017

Current agriculture is based on external fertilizers that jeopardize soil fertility. Alternative fertilization systems might come from the use of soil-borne bacteria with plant growth enhancing ability. Here, six bacterial strains that produce varying concentrations of indole acetic acid (IAA) were tested individually and in consortia for plant growth promotion and fitness-related traits of Cicer arietinum. The nitrogen fixer Mesorhizobium ciceri consistently increased biomass production and N content. In the absence of this strain, IAA Psedomonas putida and Bacillus megaterium hindered plant growth and fitness-related traits. The application of mixes of the three strains always resulted in better plant performance when M. ciceri was present. Mixes that included a P. putida strain that produced low levels of IAA appeared more likely to promote plant growth than mixes that included P. putida strains that produced high levels of IAA or mixes that included B. megaterium. The low levels of IAA produced by the selected strains, compared to the high IAA-producing strains had a significantly greater positive effect on plant biomass accumulation, flower, pod, and seed production, and total plant nitrogen and nitrogen concentrations in seeds.
Influence of the Origin of Polyamide 12 Powder on the Laser Sintering Process and Laser Sintered Parts
Authors: Schmid Manfred , Kleijnen Rob , Vetterli Marc , Wegener Konrad
Published: May 2017

Different features of polymer powders influence the process of laser sintering (LS) and the properties of LS-parts to a great extent. This study investigates important aspects of the “powder/process/part”-property relationships by comparing two polyamide 12 (PA12) powders commercially available for LS, with pronounced powder characteristic differences (Duraform® PA and Orgasol® Invent Smooth). Due to the fact that the primary influence factor on polymer behaviour, the chemical structure of the polymer chain, is identical in this case, the impacts resulting from powder distribution, particle shape, thermal behaviour, and crystalline and molecular structure, can be studied in detail. It was shown that although both systems are PA12, completely different processing conditions must be applied to accomplish high-resolution parts. The reason for this was discovered by the different thermal behaviour based on the powder production and the resulting crystalline structure. Moreover, the parts built from Orgasol® Invent Smooth unveil mechanical properties with pronounced anisotropy, caused from the high melt viscosity and termination of polymer chains. Further differences are seen in relation to the powder characteristics and other significant correlations could be revealed. For example, the study demonstrated how the particle morphology and shape impact the surface roughness of the parts.
Experimental Studies on the Behavior of a Newly-Developed Type of Self-Insulating Concrete Masonry Shear Wall under in-Plane Cyclic Loading
Authors: Abdelmoneim Elamin Mohamad Abu-Bakre , Chen Zhongfan
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to investigate the inelastic behavior of a newly-developed type of self-insulating concrete masonry shear wall (SCMSW) under in-plane cyclic loading. The new masonry system was made from concrete blocks with special configurations to provide a stronger bond between units than ordinary concrete masonry units. A total of six fully-grouted SCMSWs were prepared with different heights (1.59 to 5.78 m) and different vertical steel configurations. The developed masonry walls were tested under in-plane cyclic loading and different constant axial load ratios. In addition, the relationship between the amount of axial loading, the amount of the flexural reinforcement and the wall aspect ratios and the nonlinear hysteretic response of the SCMSW was evaluated. The results showed that the lateral load capacity of SCMSW increases with the amount of applied axial load and the amount of vertical reinforcement. However, the lateral load capacity decreases as the wall aspect ratio increases. The existence of the boundary elements at the SCMSW ends increases the ductility and the lateral load capacity. Generally, the SCMSW exhibited predominantly flexural behavior. These results agreed with those reported in previous research for walls constructed with ordinary units.
A Co-Citation Analysis on Thermal Comfort and Productivity Aspects in Production and Office Buildings
Authors: Tarantini Mariantonietta , Pernigotto Giovanni , Gasparella Andrea
Published: May 2017

In this work, the literature about the relationship between thermal comfort and productivity in workplaces is reviewed and explored by means of a co-citation analysis—i.e., a factor analysis applied to the mutual citations of the most relevant contributions. A structure of three main clusters of papers describing the relationships between workers’ thermal comfort and productivity were identified according to the factor analysis and then confirmed with a multidimensional scaling. Results indicate that comfortable indoor thermal conditions can have beneficial impacts on workers’ well-being and productivity, such as higher operational rates, lower production losses, fewer sick leaves, and reduced health related costs. Some authors proposed analytical and empirical expressions for the quantification of the impact of thermal comfort on productivity; nevertheless, due to the broad spectrum of activities and their applicability, the literature is still far from reaching a general consensus on the potential impact of comfort/discomfort on productivity and proposed models can vary significantly in the different studies.
Transition Metal-Modified Zirconium Phosphate Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Sanchez Joel , Ramos-Garcés Mario V. , Narkeviciute Ieva , Colón Jorge L. , Jaramillo Thomas F.
Published: May 2017

Zirconium phosphate (ZrP), an inorganic layered nanomaterial, is currently being investigated as a catalyst support for transition metal-based electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Two metal-modified ZrP catalyst systems were synthesized: metal-intercalated ZrP and metal-adsorbed ZrP, each involving Fe(II), Fe(III), Co(II), and Ni(II) cations. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to characterize the composite materials and confirm the incorporation of the metal cations either between the layers or on the surface of ZrP. Both types of metal-modified systems were examined for their catalytic activity for the OER in 0.1 M KOH solution. All metal-modified ZrP systems were active for the OER. Trends in activity are discussed as a function of the molar ratio in relation to the two types of catalyst systems, resulting in overpotentials for metal-adsorbed ZrP catalysts that were less than, or equal to, their metal-intercalated counterparts.
Fabrication of Photovoltaic Textiles
Authors: Mather Robert , Wilson John
Published: May 2017

Solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays are providing an increasing fraction of global electrical demand, with an accelerating rate of new installations. Most of these employ conventional glass-fronted panels, but this type of PV array does not satisfy applications that require a light-weight, flexible PV generator. An option discussed in this article is to consider textiles for such solar cell substrates. As explained in this review, combining the choice of PV cell type with the choice of textile offers alternative structures for flexible PV cells. In particular, the relative advantages and disadvantages are contrasted, either forming PV-coated fibres into a fabric, or coating an already formed fabric with the PV materials. It is shown that combining thin-film amorphous silicon PV technology and woven polyester fabric offers one solution to realizing flexible fabric PV cells, using well-understood coating methods from the textile and semiconductor industries. Finally a few applications are presented that are addressed by this approach.
The Solution of Modified Fractional Bergman’s Minimal Blood Glucose-Insulin Model
Authors: Alkahtani Badr , Algahtani Obaid , Dubey Ravi , Goswami Pranay
Published: May 2017

In the present paper, we use analytical techniques to solve fractional nonlinear differential equations systems that arise in Bergman’s minimal model, used to describe blood glucose and insulin metabolism, after intravenous tolerance testing. We also discuss the stability and uniqueness of the solution.
Discovery of Kolmogorov Scaling in the Natural Language
Authors: Van Putten Maurice
Published: May 2017

We consider the rate R and variance σ 2 of Shannon information in snippets of text based on word frequencies in the natural language. We empirically identify Kolmogorov’s scaling law in σ 2 ∝ k - 1 . 66 ± 0 . 12 (95% c.l.) as a function of k = 1 / N measured by word count N. This result highlights a potential association of information flow in snippets, analogous to energy cascade in turbulent eddies in fluids at high Reynolds numbers. We propose R and σ 2 as robust utility functions for objective ranking of concordances in efficient search for maximal information seamlessly across different languages and as a starting point for artificial attention.
Effects of Movable-Baffle on Heat Transfer and Entropy Generation in a Cavity Saturated by CNT Suspensions: Three-Dimensional Modeling
Authors: Al-Rashed Abdullah , Aich Walid , Kolsi Lioua , Mahian Omid , Hussein Ahmed , Borjini Mohamed
Published: May 2017

Convective heat transfer and entropy generation in a 3D closed cavity, equipped with adiabatic-driven baffle and filled with CNT (carbon nanotube)-water nanofluid, are numerically investigated for a range of Rayleigh numbers from 103 to 105. This research is conducted for three configurations; fixed baffle (V = 0), rotating baffle clockwise (V+) and rotating baffle counterclockwise (V−) and a range of CNT concentrations from 0 to 15%. Governing equations are formulated using potential vector vorticity formulation in its three-dimensional form, then solved by the finite volume method. The effects of motion direction of the inserted driven baffle and CNT concentration on heat transfer and entropy generation are studied. It was observed that for low Rayleigh numbers, the motion of the driven baffle enhances heat transfer regardless of its direction and the CNT concentration effect is negligible. However, with an increasing Rayleigh number, adding driven baffle increases the heat transfer only when it moves in the direction of the decreasing temperature gradient; elsewhere, convective heat transfer cannot be enhanced due to flow blockage at the corners of the baffle.
A Maximum Efficiency Point Tracking Control Scheme Based on Different Cross Coupling of Dual-Receiver Inductive Power Transfer System
Authors: Mai Ruikun , Ma Linsen , Liu Yeran , Yue Pengfei , Cao Guangzhong , He Zhengyou
Published: May 2017

One of the most promising inductive power transfer applications is the wireless power supply for locomotives which may cancel the need for pantographs. In order to meet the dynamic and high power demands of wireless power supplies for locomotives, a relatively long transmitter track and multiple receivers are usually adopted. However, during the dynamic charging, the mutual inductances between the transmitter and receivers vary and the load of the locomotives also changes randomly, which dramatically affects the system efficiency. A maximum efficiency point tracking control scheme is proposed to improve the system efficiency against the variation of the load and the mutual inductances between the transmitter and receivers while considering the cross coupling between receivers. Firstly, a detailed theoretical analysis on dual receivers is carried out. Then a control scheme with three control loops is proposed to regulate the receiver currents to be the same, to regulate the output voltage and to search for the maximum efficiency point. Finally, a 2 kW prototype is established to validate the performance of the proposed method. The overall system efficiency (DC-DC efficiency) reaches 90.6% at rated power and is improved by 5.8% with the proposed method under light load compared with the traditional constant output voltage control method.
Investigating the Effect of Rainfall Parameters on the Self-Cleaning of Polluted Suspension Insulators: Insight from Southern China
Authors: Jiang Zidan , Jiang Xingliang , Zhang Zhijin , Guo Yujun , Li Yongfu
Published: May 2017

The cleaning effect of heavy rain (the rainfall reaches 5 mm every day) on surface contamination of insulators is more effective than dew, fog, mist, and other light rain conditions which can initiate leakage currents and increase the likelihood of flashover. It is well understood that heavy rain can wash away contamination from the surface of high voltage (HV) insulators and thereby reduce the risk of pollution flashover. This study examines the cleaning effect of natural wetting conditions on HV insulators on four 500 kV transmission lines in Hunan Province, China. Historical meteorological data, monthly equivalent salt deposit density (ESDD) and non-soluble deposit density (NSDD) measurements taken over a period of five years were analyzed to investigate the relationship between rainfall intensity and insulator cleaning. The measured data show that the ESDD/NSDD changes with the seasonal variation, which accumulates in dry season (January–April, about 117–122 days) and is washed off in the wet season (June–October, about 118–127 days). According to the measured data, the ESDD and NSDD on the surface of insulators were affected by the rainfall intensity (in the dry season it is about 1 mm/day and in the wet season it is about 5 mm/day). Based on a comparison of the four study sites, we propose a mathematical model to show the functional relationship between rainfall intensity and insulator self-cleaning capability. The mathematical model’s coefficient of determination (R2) is greater than 0.9 and the effective rate of self-cleaning capability reaches 80%.
Energy-Efficient Through-Life Smart Design, Manufacturing and Operation of Ships in an Industry 4.0 Environment
Authors: Ang Joo , Goh Cindy , Saldivar Alfredo , Li Yun
Published: May 2017

Energy efficiency is an important factor in the marine industry to help reduce manufacturing and operational costs as well as the impact on the environment. In the face of global competition and cost-effectiveness, ship builders and operators today require a major overhaul in the entire ship design, manufacturing and operation process to achieve these goals. This paper highlights smart design, manufacturing and operation as the way forward in an industry 4.0 (i4) era from designing for better energy efficiency to more intelligent ships and smart operation through-life. The paper (i) draws parallels between ship design, manufacturing and operation processes, (ii) identifies key challenges facing such a temporal (lifecycle) as opposed to spatial (mass) products, (iii) proposes a closed-loop ship lifecycle framework and (iv) outlines potential future directions in smart design, manufacturing and operation of ships in an industry 4.0 value chain so as to achieve more energy-efficient vessels. Through computational intelligence and cyber-physical integration, we envision that industry 4.0 can revolutionise ship design, manufacturing and operations in a smart product through-life process in the near future.
Surfactant-Assisted Perovskite Nanofillers Incorporated in Quaternized Poly (Vinyl Alcohol) Composite Membrane as an Effective Hydroxide-Conducting Electrolyte
Authors: Rajesh Kumar Selvaraj , Ma Wei-Ting , Lu Hsin-Chun , Teng Li-Wei , Hsu Hung-Chun , Shih Chao-Ming , Yang Chun-Chen , Lue Shingjiang
Published: May 2017

Perovskite LaFeO3 nanofillers (0.1%) are incorporated into a quaternized poly(vinyl alcohol) (QPVA) matrix for use as hydroxide-conducting membranes in direct alkaline methanol fuel cells (DAMFCs). The as-synthesized LaFeO3 nanofillers are amorphous and functionalized with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) surfactant. The annealed LaFeO3 nanofillers are crystalline without CTAB. The QPVA/CTAB-coated LaFeO3 composite membrane shows a defect-free structure while the QPVA/annealed LaFeO3 film has voids at the interfaces between the soft polymer and rigid nanofillers. The QPVA/CTAB-coated LaFeO3 composite has lower methanol permeability and higher ionic conductivity than the pure QPVA and QPVA/annealed LaFeO3 films. We suggest that the CTAB-coated LaFeO3 provides three functions to the polymeric composite: increasing polymer free volume, ammonium group contributor, and plasticizer to enhance the interfacial compatibility. The composite containing CTAB-coated LaFeO3 results in superior cell performance. A maximum power density of 272 mW cm−2 is achieved, which is among the highest power outputs reported for DAMFCs in the literature.
A Network Reconfiguration Method Considering Data Uncertainties in Smart Distribution Networks
Authors: Liu Ke-yan , Sheng Wanxing , Liu Yongmei , Meng Xiaoli
Published: May 2017

This work presents a method for distribution network reconfiguration with the simultaneous consideration of distributed generation (DG) allocation. The uncertainties of load fluctuation before the network reconfiguration are also considered. Three optimal objectives, including minimal line loss cost, minimum Expected Energy Not Supplied, and minimum switch operation cost, are investigated. The multi-objective optimization problem is further transformed into a single-objective optimization problem by utilizing weighting factors. The proposed network reconfiguration method includes two periods. The first period is to create a feasible topology network by using binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO). Then the DG allocation problem is solved by utilizing sensitivity analysis and a Harmony Search algorithm (HSA). In the meanwhile, interval analysis is applied to deal with the uncertainties of load and devices parameters. Test cases are studied using the standard IEEE 33-bus and PG&E 69-bus systems. Different scenarios and comparisons are analyzed in the experiments. The results show the applicability of the proposed method. The performance analysis of the proposed method is also investigated. The computational results indicate that the proposed network reconfiguration algorithm is feasible.
Investigation on Strengthening Approaches Adopted for Poorly Detailed RC Corbels
Authors: Neupane Ram , Eddy Liyanto , Nagai Kohei
Published: May 2017

Poor detailing of the position of bearing pad over reinforced concrete (RC) corbel may lead to premature failure, which is undesired and structurally vulnerable. An appropriate retrofitting solution is necessary to ensure the functionality of such RC corbels. Considering the growing popularity of external carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) in retrofitting, this research examines the effectiveness of an externally wrapped unidirectional CFRP sheet and compares its performance against traditional retrofitting methods. Moreover, it is intended to fulfill the lack of extensive research on external CFRP application for corbel strengthening. A total of eight medium-scale corbel specimens were tested on vertical load. Observed premature failure due to placing the bearing pad near the edge of corbel was verified and the effectiveness of the proposed structural strengthening solutions was studied. Experimental results show that although the loading capacity of the damaged corbel due to the poor detailing of bearing pad position could not be fully recovered, the external CFRP wrapping method demonstrated superior performance over RC jacketing and was able to prevent localized failure. Further study based on non-linear 3D finite element analysis (FEA) was carried out to identify the governing parameters of each retrofitting solution. Numerical studies suggested important parameters of various retrofitting alternatives for higher capacity assurance.
Novel Algorithm for Mining ENSO-Oriented Marine Spatial Association Patterns from Raster-Formatted Datasets
Authors: Cunjin Xue , Xiaohan Liao
Published: May 2017

The ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) is the dominant inter-annual climate signal on Earth, and its relationships with marine environments constitute a complex interrelated system. As traditional methods face great challenges in analyzing which, how and where marine parameters change when ENSO events occur, we propose an ENSO-oriented marine spatial association pattern (EOMSAP) mining algorithm for dealing with multiple long-term raster-formatted datasets. EOMSAP consists of four key steps. The first quantifies the abnormal variations of marine parameters into three levels using the mean-standard deviation criteria of time series; the second categorizes La Niña events, neutral conditions, or El Niño events using an ENSO index; then, the EOMSAP designs a linking–pruning–generating recursive loop to generate (m + 1)-candidate association patterns from an m-dimensional one by combining a user-specified support with a conditional support; and the fourth generates strong association patterns according to the user-specified evaluation indicators. To demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of EOMSAP, we present two case studies with real remote sensing datasets from January 1998 to December 2012: one considers performance analysis relative to the ENSO-Apriori and Apriori methods; and the other identifies marine spatial association patterns within the Pacific Ocean.
Clock Genes and Altered Sleep–Wake Rhythms: Their Role in the Development of Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Charrier Annaëlle , Olliac Bertrand , Roubertoux Pierre , Tordjman Sylvie
Published: May 2017

In mammals, the circadian clocks network (central and peripheral oscillators) controls circadian rhythms and orchestrates the expression of a range of downstream genes, allowing the organism to anticipate and adapt to environmental changes. Beyond their role in circadian rhythms, several studies have highlighted that circadian clock genes may have a more widespread physiological effect on cognition, mood, and reward-related behaviors. Furthermore, single nucleotide polymorphisms in core circadian clock genes have been associated with psychiatric disorders (such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). However, the underlying mechanisms of these associations remain to be ascertained and the cause–effect relationships are not clearly established. The objective of this article is to clarify the role of clock genes and altered sleep–wake rhythms in the development of psychiatric disorders (sleep problems are often observed at early onset of psychiatric disorders). First, the molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms are described. Then, the relationships between disrupted circadian rhythms, including sleep–wake rhythms, and psychiatric disorders are discussed. Further research may open interesting perspectives with promising avenues for early detection and therapeutic intervention in psychiatric disorders.
Lineages of the Cardiac Conduction System
Authors: Mohan Rajiv , Boukens Bas , Christoffels Vincent
Published: May 2017

The cardiac conduction system (CCS) initiates and coordinately propagates the electrical impulse to orchestrate the heartbeat. It consists of a set of interconnected components with shared properties. A better understanding of the origin and specification of CCS lineages has allowed us to better comprehend the etiology of CCS disease and has provided leads for development of therapies. A variety of technologies and approaches have been used to investigate CCS lineages, which will be summarized in this review. The findings imply that there is not a single CCS lineage. In contrast, early cell fate decisions segregate the lineages of the CCS components while they remain connected to each other.
Nanoparticle-Mediated Drug Delivery System for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: Nakamura Kazufumi , Matsubara Hiromi , Akagi Satoshi , Sarashina Toshihiro , Ejiri Kentaro , Kawakita Norifumi , Yoshida Masashi , Miyoshi Toru , Watanabe Atsuyuki , Nishii Nobuhiro , Ito Hiroshi
Published: May 2017

Nanoparticles have been used as a novel drug delivery system. Drug-incorporated nanoparticles for local delivery might optimize the efficacy and minimize the side effects of drugs. The efficacy and safety of intratracheal administration of prostacyclin analog (beraprost) -incorporated nanoparticles and imatinib (a PDGF-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor) -incorporated nanoparticles in Sugen-hypoxia-normoxia or monocrotaline rat models of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and in human PAH-pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells have been reported. The use of inhaled drug-incorporated nanoparticles might be a novel approach for the treatment of PAH.
Serum Profiles of Cytokines in Behcet’s Disease
Authors: Sadeghi Alireza , Davatchi Fereydoun , Shahram Farhad , Karimimoghadam Arezoo , Alikhani Majid , Pezeshgi Aiyoub , Mazloomzadeh Saeideh , Sadeghi-Abdollahi Bahar , Asadi-Khiavi Masoud
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Behcet’s disease (BD) is a chronic systemic autoinflammatory vasculitis which is handled by the variety of proteins like cytokines. Therefore, cytokines are considered as one of the prototypic factors during inflammatory responses of BD. Consequently, the present study was designed for evaluation of cytokine profiles in Iranian BD cases, including those with and without uveitis. Materials and Method: All cases were divided into three groups based on ophthalmologic exam results: BD with uveitis, BD without uveitis, and recovered uveitis BD. Cases with a history of BD recovery were placed in the group of recovered uveitis. The patients with infectious uveitis as well as other collagen vascular diseases and patients who have used biologics to treat ocular immune-mediated diseases were excluded. Finally, after venous blood sampling, levels of cytokines were quantified and statistical approaches were performed for measurements. Results: Enrolled cases were divided to 26 patients with active uveitis, 25 patients with recovered uveitis and 24 patients without uveitis and interestingly, just IL-2 was the only cytokine that showed statistical difference in patients with BD uveitis in comparison with other groups (pvalue = 0.02). The pair wise comparison showed a significant difference between the patients with and without uveitis groups (pvalue = 0.004) as well as patients with uveitis and recovered uveitis groups (pvalue = 0.002). Discussion: Significant elevation of IL-2 in patients with uveitis (in comparison with recovered or without uveitis cases) demonstrates that it may be one of the main proteins that enroll in the pathophysiology of BD uveitis and may be considered as a new target for refractory disease therapies. Studies with larger samples can help to obtain more accurate conclusions.
High Performance Receiver Design for RX Carrier Aggregation
Authors: Kim Jusung , Ku Bon-Hyun , Lee Sanghun , Kim Sungchan , Ryu Keunkwan
Published: May 2017

Carrier aggregation is one of the key features to increase the data rate given a scarce bandwidth spectrum. This paper describes the design of a high performance receiver suitable for carrier aggregation in LTE-Advanced and future 5 G standards. The proposed architecture is versatile to support legacy mode (single carrier), inter-band carrier aggregation, and intra-band carrier aggregation. Performance with carrier-aggregation support is as good as legacy receivers. Contradicting requirements of high linearity and the low noise is satisfied with the single-gm receiver architecture in addition to supporting carrier aggregation. The proposed cascode-shutoff low-noise trans-conductance amplifier (LNTA) achieves 57.1 dB voltage gain, 1.76 dB NF (noise figure) , and - 6 . 7 dBm IIP3 (Third-order intercept point) with the power consumption of 21.3 mW in the intra-band carrier aggregation scenario. With legacy mode, the same receiver signal path achieves 56.6 dB voltage gain, 1.33 dB NF, and - 6 . 2 dBm IIP3 with a low power consumption of 7.4 mW.
Historical Land Use Dynamics in the Highly Degraded Landscape of the Calhoun Critical Zone Observatory
Authors: Coughlan Michael , Nelson Donald , Lonneman Michael , Block Ashley
Published: May 2017

Processes of land degradation and regeneration display fine scale heterogeneity often intimately linked with land use. Yet, examinations of the relationships between land use and land degradation often lack the resolution necessary to understand how local institutions differentially modulate feedback between individual farmers and the spatially heterogeneous effects of land use on soils. In this paper, we examine an historical example of a transition from agriculture to forest dominated land use (c. 1933–1941) in a highly degraded landscape on the Piedmont of South Carolina. Our landscape-scale approach examines land use and tenure at the level that individuals enact management decisions. We used logistic regression techniques to examine associations between land use, land tenure, topography, and market cost-distance. Our findings suggest that farmer responses to changing market and policy conditions were influenced by topographic characteristics associated with productivity and long-term viability of agricultural land use. Further, although local environmental feedbacks help to explain spatial patterning of land use, property regime and land tenure arrangements also significantly constrained the ability of farmers to adapt to changing socioeconomic and environmental conditions.
Heparin, Heparan Sulphate and the TGF-β Cytokine Superfamily
Authors: Rider Chris , Mulloy Barbara
Published: May 2017

Of the circa 40 cytokines of the TGF-β superfamily, around a third are currently known to bind to heparin and heparan sulphate. This includes TGF-β1, TGF-β2, certain bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs), as well as GDNF and two of its close homologues. Experimental studies of their heparin/HS binding sites reveal a diversity of locations around the shared cystine-knot protein fold. The activities of the TGF-β cytokines in controlling proliferation, differentiation and survival in a range of cell types are in part regulated by a number of specific, secreted BMP antagonist proteins. These vary in structure but seven belong to the CAN or DAN family, which shares the TGF-β type cystine-knot domain. Other antagonists are more distant members of the TGF-β superfamily. It is emerging that the majority, but not all, of the antagonists are also heparin binding proteins. Any future exploitation of the TGF-β cytokines in the therapy of chronic diseases will need to fully consider their interactions with glycosaminoglycans and the implications of this in terms of their bioavailability and biological activity.
Toward Exploring Novel Organic Materials: MP4-DFT Properties of 4-Amino-3-Iminoindene
Authors: Irshaidat Tareq
Published: May 2017

Tautomerism links with many applications and remains an attracting feature in exploring novel systems. In this regard, properties of indene-based HNCCCN segments have not received any considerable attention. In this computational organic chemistry study, first, to calculate the proton transfer energy barrier at a reasonable cost, the study identified an accurate forth order Møller–Plesset perturbation theory-density functional theory (MP4-DFT) protocol equivalent to the outstanding pioneering benchmark calculations. The calculations illustrate that the two tautomers of the 4-amino-3-iminoindene nucleus are separated by a considerable energy barrier while featuring different molecular orbital characteristics; frontier orbital distribution, λmax, and energies, which are known basic requirements in molecular switching and logic circuit applications. The N-H/BH2 substitution was found to have significant influence on the electronic structure of the skeleton. Similarities in the two tautomers and the boron derivative to properties of known molecular materials have been found.
One-Step Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles on Polydopamine-Coated Sericin/Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Films for Potential Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Cai Rui , Tao Gang , He Huawei , Song Kai , Zuo Hua , Jiang Wenchao , Wang Yejing
Published: May 2017

Silk sericin has great potential as a biomaterial for biomedical applications due to its good hydrophilicity, reactivity, and biodegradability. To develop multifunctional sericin materials for potential antibacterial application, a one-step synthesis method for preparing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) modified on polydopamine-coated sericin/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) composite films was developed. Polydopamine (PDA) acted as both metal ion chelating and reducing agent to synthesize AgNPs in situ on the sericin/PVA composite film. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy analysis revealed that polydopamine could effectively facilitate the high-density growth of AgNPs as a 3-D matrix. X-ray diffractometry studies suggested the synthesized AgNPs formed good face-centered cubic crystalline structures. Contact angle measurement and mechanical test indicated AgNPs modified PDA-sericin/PVA composite film had good hydrophilicity and mechanical property. The bacterial growth curve and inhibition zone assays showed the AgNPs modified PDA-sericin/PVA composite film had long-term antibacterial activities. This work develops a new method for the preparation of AgNPs modified PDA-sericin/PVA film with good hydrophilicity, mechanical performance and antibacterial activities for the potential antimicrobial application in biomedicine.
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and Its Bioactive Constituents Exhibit Antiviral Activity against HSV-2 and Anti-enzymatic Properties against Urease by an ESI-MS Based Assay
Authors: Hassan Sherif T. S. , Švajdlenka Emil , Berchová-Bímová Kateřina
Published: May 2017

For decades, Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and its phytochemicals have been shown to possess a wide range of pharmacologic properties. In this study, aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa (AEHS) and its bioactive constituent protocatechuic acid (PCA), have been evaluated in vitro for their antiviral activity against HSV-2 clinical isolates and anti-enzymatic activity against urease. Antiherpetic activity was evaluated by the titer reduction assay in infected Vero cells, and cytotoxicity was evaluated by the neutral red dye-uptake method. Anti-urease activity was determined by a developed Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS)-based assay. PCA showed potent anti-HSV-2 activity compared with that of acyclovir, with EC50 values of 0.92 and 1.43 µg∙mL−1, respectively, and selectivity indices > 217 and > 140, respectively. For the first time, AEHS was shown to exert anti-urease inhibition activity, with an IC50 value of 82.4 µg∙mL−1. This, combined with its safety, could facilitate its use in practical applications as a natural urease inhibitor. Our results present Hibiscus sabdariffa L. and its bioactive compound PCA as potential therapeutic agents in the treatment of HSV-2 infection and the treatment of diseases caused by urease-producing bacteria.
Carbon Nanotube Membranes: Synthesis, Properties, and Future Filtration Applications
Authors: Rashid Md. Harun-Or , Ralph Stephen F.
Published: May 2017

Over the course of the past decade, there has been growing interest in the development of different types of membranes composed of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), including buckypapers and composite materials, for an ever-widening range of filtration applications. This article provides an overview of how different types of CNT membranes are prepared and the results obtained from investigations into their suitability for different applications. The latter involve the removal of small particles from air samples, the filtration of aqueous solutions containing organic compounds and/or bacteria, and the separation of individual liquids present in mixtures. A growing number of reports have demonstrated that the incorporation of CNTs into composite membranes confers an improved resistance to fouling caused by biomacromolecules and bacteria. These results are discussed, along with evidence that demonstrates it is possible to further reduce fouling by taking advantage of the inherent conductivity of composite membranes containing CNTs, as well as by using different types of electrochemical stimuli.
Information Phage Therapy Research Should Report
Authors: Abedon Stephen T.
Published: May 2017

Bacteriophages, or phages, are viruses which infect bacteria. A large subset of phages infect bactericidally and, consequently, for nearly one hundred years have been employed as antibacterial agents both within and outside of medicine. Clinically these applications are described as phage or bacteriophage therapy. Alternatively, and especially in the treatment of environments, this practice instead may be described as a phage-mediated biocontrol of bacteria. Though the history of phage therapy has involved substantial clinical experimentation, current standards along with drug regulations have placed a premium on preclinical approaches, i.e., animal experiments. As such, it is important for preclinical experiments not only to be held to high standards but also to be reported in a manner which improves translation to clinical utility. Here I address this latter issue, that of optimization of reporting of preclinical as well as clinical experiments. I do this by providing a list of pertinent information and data which, in my opinion, phage therapy experiments ought to present in publications, along with tips for best practices. The goal is to improve the ability of readers to gain relevant information from reports on phage therapy research, to allow other researchers greater potential to repeat or extend findings, to ease transitions from preclinical to clinical development, and otherwise simply to improve phage therapy experiments. Targeted are not just authors but also reviewers, other critical readers, writers of commentaries, and, perhaps, formulators of guidelines or policy. Though emphasizing therapy, many points are applicable to phage-mediated biocontrol of bacteria more generally.
Analysis of Gamma-Band Activity from Human EEG Using Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Amo Carlos , De Santiago Luis , Barea Rafael , López-Dorado Almudena , Boquete Luciano
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether gamma-band activity detection is improved when a filter, based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD), is added to the pre-processing block of single-channel electroencephalography (EEG) signals. EMD decomposes the original signal into a finite number of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). EEGs from 25 control subjects were registered in basal and motor activity (hand movements) using only one EEG channel. Over the basic signal, IMF signals are computed. Gamma-band activity is computed using power spectrum density in the 30–60 Hz range. Event-related synchronization (ERS) was defined as the ratio of motor and basal activity. To evaluate the performance of the new EMD based method, ERS was computed from the basic and IMF signals. The ERS obtained using IMFs improves, from 31.00% to 73.86%, on the original ERS for the right hand, and from 22.17% to 47.69% for the left hand. As EEG processing is improved, the clinical applications of gamma-band activity will expand.
Metal Oxide Nanowire Preparation and Their Integration into Chemical Sensing Devices at the SENSOR Lab in Brescia
Authors: Bertuna Angela , Faglia Guido , Ferroni Matteo , Kaur Navpreet , Arachchige Hashitha M. M. Munasinghe , Sberveglieri Giorgio , Comini Elisabetta
Published: May 2017

Metal oxide 1D nanowires are probably the most promising structures to develop cheap stable and selective chemical sensors. The purpose of this contribution is to review almost two-decades of research activity at the Sensor Lab Brescia on their preparation during by vapor solid (n-type In2O3, ZnO), vapor liquid solid (n-type SnO2 and p-type NiO) and thermal evaporation and oxidation (n-type ZnO, WO3 and p-type CuO) methods. For each material we’ve assessed the chemical sensing performance in relation to the preparation conditions and established a rank in the detection of environmental and industrial pollutants: SnO2 nanowires were effective in DMMP detection, ZnO nanowires in NO2, acetone and ethanol detection, WO3 for ammonia and CuO for ozone.
Finite Element Analysis of Film Stack Architecture for Complementary Metal-Oxide–Semiconductor Image Sensors
Authors: Wu Kuo-Tsai , Hwang Sheng-Jye , Lee Huei-Huang
Published: May 2017

Image sensors are the core components of computer, communication, and consumer electronic products. Complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors have become the mainstay of image-sensing developments, but are prone to leakage current. In this study, we simulate the CMOS image sensor (CIS) film stacking process by finite element analysis. To elucidate the relationship between the leakage current and stack architecture, we compare the simulated and measured leakage currents in the elements. Based on the analysis results, we further improve the performance by optimizing the architecture of the film stacks or changing the thin-film material. The material parameters are then corrected to improve the accuracy of the simulation results. The simulated and experimental results confirm a positive correlation between measured leakage current and stress. This trend is attributed to the structural defects induced by high stress, which generate leakage. Using this relationship, we can change the structure of the thin-film stack to reduce the leakage current and thereby improve the component life and reliability of the CIS components.
“Yeah, and What’s the Problem?” Embodiment, Cultural Practices and Working out in a Dutch Gym
Authors: Sossa Alexis
Published: May 2017

In this paper, I present empirical data from ethnographic work carried out in a Dutch gym, where people, especially students, from different countries work out, interact and explore ideas and practices related to their cultures and to other people’s cultures. I will analyse and explain four things: first, the social skills required to successfully interact in a multicultural space; second, the cultural and physical skills that people who have worked out in this gym for a long time have embodied; third, the skills and culture that foreigners have to quickly learn; and finally, how this affects the relationships and the activities considered important in this gym.