bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use autoregressions with multiple roots of the characteristic equations to image representation and filtering
Authors:   Ulyanovsk State Technical University, Severny Venets str. 32, Ulyanovsk, Russia, 432027, Andriyanov Nikita , Vasiliev Konstantin ,   Ulyanovsk State Technical University, Severny Venets str. 32, Ulyanovsk, Russia, 432027
Published: September 2018

The article describes probabilistic properties of autoregressive models with multiple roots of characteristic equations as well as the results of such properties investigation. Particular attention is paid to the study of covariance functions. However, we investigate only such models of different orders that provides equal intervals of correlation in row and column. So the multiplicity of such models by row and column is the same. Asymptotic graphs of covariance functions cross-sections are constructed. It is shown that the cross-sections tend to ellipses when model orders are improving. We also describe in detail the problem of filtering images generated by autoregressions with multiple roots. Dependences of variances of filtering errors on the correlation parameter are obtained. The efficiency of filtering at various signal noise ratios and various orders of models is investigated. The effectiveness and expediency of applying autoregressions with multiple roots are shown in comparison with other autoregressions of high orders.
Unsupervised segmentation of ceramic proppant particles in 3D microCT images
Authors:   Schlumberger Moscow Research, Pudovkina 13, Moscow, Russia, 119285, Serkova Ekaterina ,   Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, Moscow, Russia, 119991, Safonov Ilia ,   Schlumberger Moscow Research, Pudovkina 13, Moscow, Russia, 119285, Yakimchuk Ivan ,   Schlumberger Moscow Research, Pudovkina 13, Moscow, Russia, 119285, Evstefeeva Victoria ,   Schlumberger Moscow Research, Pudovkina 13, Moscow, Russia, 119285,   Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1, Moscow, Russia, 119991
Published: September 2018

Oil and gas industry uses different types of ceramic proppants in millions of kilograms per year. X-ray microtomography (microCT) imaging can be applied for investigation of quality of the material. For analysis, it is necessary to segment spherical contacting particles of proppant. We apply a marker-controlled watershed for segmentation. The method of markers detection has several parameters which have crucial influence on segmentation outcome. To optimize segmentation quality, we propose unsupervised (nonreference) measure based on a compactness of 3D connected regions, where compactness is calculated via central geometric moments of second order. In addition, we demonstrate advantages of our technique for compactness estimation over the method based on ratio of surface area and volume of a region.
An image understanding system based on the geometrized histograms method: finding the sky in road scenes
Authors:   Keldysh Institute of Applied Mathematics of RAS, Miusskaya square 4, Moscow, Russia, 145047, Kiy Konstantin
Published: September 2018

In this paper, the technique provided by the geometrized histogram method for segmentation and description of color images is developed and improved in order to analyze the adjacency relation of left and right germs of contrast objects (left and right contrast curves) on the STG. This adjacency relation involves and generalizes the adjacency relation for regions in classical segmentation methods (the so-called RAG). Using this order relation, the adjacency relation for left and right germs of contrast objects is established. This order relation is also employed for finding relations between left and right germs with prescribed geometric and color-intensity characteristic that are not adjacent and lay apart at a distance. In addition, the concept of contours that are close to vertical on STG is introduced. Based on the adjacency relation proposed, a technique for constructing complex contrast objects with a prescribed geometric shape and color-intensity description is proposed. The developed technique is applied to analyzing road scenes in order to find the sky in video sequences. The results of finding the object in video sequences by a program complex, implementing these ideas, are presented and discussed.
Accurate reconstruction of the 3D indoor environment map with a RGB-D camera based on multiple ICP
Authors:   Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Yanvarya street 29, Orenburg, Russia, 460000, Ruchay Alexey ,   Department of Mathematics, Chelyabinsk State University, Bratiev Kashirinykh street 129, Chelyabinsk, Russia, 454001, Dorofeev Konstantin ,   Department of Mathematics, Chelyabinsk State University, Bratiev Kashirinykh street 129, Chelyabinsk, Russia, 454001, Kober Anastasia ,   Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Yanvarya street 29, Orenburg, Russia, 460000
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we propose a new method for 3D map reconstruction using the Kinect sensor based on multiple ICP. The Kinect sensor provides RGB images as well as depth images. Since the depth and RGB color images are captured by one Kinect sensor with multiple views, each depth image should be related to the color image. After matching of the images (registration), point-to-point corresponding between two depth images is found, and they can be combined and represented in the 3D space. In order to obtain a dense 3D map of the 3D indoor environment, we design an algorithm to combine information from multiple views of the Kinect sensor. First, features extracted from color and depth images are used to localize them in a 3D scene. Next, Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm is used to align all frames. As a result, a new frame is added to the dense 3D model. However, the spatial distribution and resolution of depth data affect to the performance of 3D scene reconstruction system based on ICP. In this paper we automatically divide the depth data into sub-clouds with similar resolution, to align them separately, and unify in the entire points cloud. This method is called the multiple ICP. The presented computer simulation results show an improvement in accuracy of 3D map reconstruction using real data.
Modeling of Agricultural Spatial Objects with Heterogeneous Dynamically Changing Spatial Structure
Authors:   FSAEI All-Russia Association of Siberian Federal University, Institute of Space and Information Technologies, Kirenskogo str. 26, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660074, Brezhnev Ruslan , Maglinets Yuriy ,   FSAEI All-Russia Association of Siberian Federal University, Institute of Space and Information Technologies, Kirenskogo str. 26, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660074, Raevich Ksenia ,   FSAEI All-Russia Association of Siberian Federal University, Institute of Space and Information Technologies, Kirenskogo str. 26, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660074, Tsibulskii Gennady ,   FSAEI All-Russia Association of Siberian Federal University, Institute of Space and Information Technologies, Kirenskogo str. 26, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, 660074
Published: September 2018

This article provides research for the models describing the spatial object of Agricultural Land (AL) as observed at medium- and high-spatial resolution satellite images. This object is characterized by variable reflectance features during the vegetation season. These variations are caused both by natural and man-induced environmental effects and by soil cover properties. The vegetation cover growth rates may vary at different areas within the agricultural contour which leads to the creation and development of heterogeneities. The research focuses on the spatial modeling of the agricultural object with heterogeneous dynamically changing spatial structure. A model which allows matching the values of parameters measured at space images with reference and abnormal object behavior has been developed. This model describes the object of research on the level of geometric and relational structures, thereby making it possible to determine spectral and metrical features as part of image heterogeneities, find interrelations between these features within the time limits and map these heterogeneities. The results obtained were tested when monitoring the state and development trends for grain crops at the tested objects in the Sukhobuzimsky district of the Krasnoyarsk Territory.
Methods and applications for controlling the correctness of physical exercises performance
Authors:   Volgograd State Technical University, Lenina Avenue 28, Volgograd, Russia, 400005, Rozaliev Vladimir , Vybornyi Alexander ,   Volgograd State Technical University, Lenina Avenue 28, Volgograd, Russia, 400005, Orlovah Yulia ,   Volgograd State Technical University, Lenina Avenue 28, Volgograd, Russia, 400005, Alekseev Aleksey ,   Volgograd State Technical University, Lenina Avenue 28, Volgograd, Russia, 400005
Published: September 2018

This document contains the description of the program for the control of the correct physical exercises performance implementation using Microsoft Kinect, the method of the comparison between live motions performed by the user and recorded motions, description of the testing of the program and also information about different approaches for gesture recognition.
Interpolation for differential and hierarchical compression of multidimensional signals
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoe Shosse 34А, Samara, Russia, 443086, Denisov Sergey , Gashnikov Mikhail ,   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoe Shosse 34А, Samara, Russia, 443086
Published: September 2018

A comparative research of interpolation algorithms for hierarchical and differential methods of signal compression is performed. The hierarchical method of signal compression is based on hierarchical grid interpolation. The differential method of signal compression is based on differential pulse-code modulation (DPCM). Versions with maximum error control are used for both methods. Computational experiments are performed in natural test signals. The dependence of the compression ratio on the maximum error and on the standard error is given for both methods.
Building extraction from satellite imagery using a digital surface model
Authors:   N.N. Krasovskii Institute of Mathematics and Mechanics of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, S. Kovalevskaya Street 16, Yekaterinburg, Russia, 620990, Dunaeva Alexandra ,   Ural Federal University named after the first President of Russia B.N. Yeltsin, Mira Street 19, Yekaterinburg, Russia, 620002, Kornilov Fedor ,   N.N. Krasovskii Institute of Mathematics and Mechanics of the Ural Branch of the Russian
Published: September 2018

In this paper, two approaches to building extraction from satellite imagery and height data obtained from stereo images or LIDAR are compared. The first approach consists of detecting high-rise objects in a digital surface model and then improving recognition accuracy using segmentation of spectral information. The second approach uses the U-Net convolutional neural network, which showed the best results for the extraction of objects from aerospace images on a number of large datasets. Extensive experiments were carried out to evaluate the dependence of the quality of U-Net-based building extraction on the different data types (including high-resolution satellite images and digital surface model data). Building extraction quality of the trained network was also evaluated on satellite images with different spatial resolutions.
Compensation of the complex geometric distortions induced by a car digital video recording equipment
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoe Shosse 34, Samara, Russia, 443086, Myasnikov Evgeny
Published: September 2018

In connection with the wide spread of mobile video recording equipment such as dashcam (car DVR), the restoration of distortions introduced by such equipment is of particular interest.Unfortunately, the nature of the geometric distortions introduced by such equipment is sometimescomplex, and cannot be described using the classical radial models. For this reason, in order to compensate for geometric distortions, an original method for compensating the geometric distortions was developed in this paper.The advantage of the proposed approach is, on the one hand, the possibility of a compact parametric description of the introduced distortions, and on the other hand obtaining at the final stage an improved correction field that takes into account the local inhomogeneities of distortions that occur when inexpensive systems are used.
Classification of radar images with different methods of image preprocessing
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoye shosse34, Samara, Russia, 443086, Borodinov Aleksandr , Myasnikov Vladislav ,   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoye shosse34, Samara, Russia, 443086,   Image Processing Systems Institute - Branch of the Federal Scientific Research Centre “Crystallography and Photonics” of Russian Academy of Sciences, Molodogvardeyskaya str. 151, Samara, Russia, 443001
Published: September 2018

This work is aimed at comparing the classification algorithms and methods of machine learning with various methods of preliminary processing of radar images. Preprocessing step includes speckle noise filtering and object orientation normalization on the image. In comparison, the following classification algorithms were considered: Decision Tree, Support Vector Machine, K Nearest-Neighbor method, Random Forest, AdaBoost where decision tree was used as a weak classifier, Convolutional Neural Network and Residual Neural Network. The principal component analysis was applied to reduce the dimension. The study was carried out on the objects from the base of radar images MSTAR.
Soil characteristics influence on the winter wheat yield regression modeling using NDVI vegetation index
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoye shosse 34, Samara, Russia, 443086, Denisova Anna , Evstiforova Anastasia ,   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoye shosse 34, Samara, Russia, 443086
Published: September 2018

The general way of a yield estimation using remote sensing data is a regression modeling based on cumulative NDVI vegetation index. Usually, the other additional factors are also included in the model to enhance a yield estimation accuracy, for example, weather conditions during the vegetation season or particular crop type information. Nevertheless, such factors as soil characteristics were not properly investigated and it is still an open question whether they should be included in modeling process or not. This article reveals the regression modeling accuracy dependency on the additional soil characteristics for winter wheat yield estimation using cumulative NDVI. We analyzed several groups of factors obtained from different data sources such as remote sensing images, geoinformation systems and meteorological data. These factors were used to construct primarily yield models without soil factors. The best two models were chosen as the basic models and then they were modified to take into account the additional soil characteristics. Finally, the comparison of the basic models with the modified models including soil parameters was made. We investigated such soil parameters as soil fertility score derived from a ten-year-old soil map and the results of the current agrochemical inspections. The comparison of basic and modified models was made for the winter wheat fields located in Samara region, Russia. The experiments showed that regression models give better determination coefficient and root mean square error if the additional soil characteristics are used for modeling. Moreover, the older data obtained from soil maps and reference book of the soil fertility score delivers better prediction than the current agrochemical inspection data. Therefore, there is no need to know lots of soil parameters for successfully winter wheat yield modeling. The results of this research can be applied to forecasting winter wheat yield in Samara region.
Accuracy analysis of 3D object reconstruction using RGB-D sensor
Authors:   Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Yanvarya street 29, Orenburg, Russia, 460000, Ruchay Alexey ,   Department of Mathematics, Chelyabinsk State University, Bratiev Kashirinykh street 129, Chelyabinsk, Russia, 454001, Dorofeev Konstantin ,   Department of Mathematics, Chelyabinsk State University, Bratiev Kashirinykh street 129, Chelyabinsk, Russia, 454001, Kober Anastasia ,   Federal Research Centre of Biological Systems and Agro-technologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 9 Yanvarya street 29, Orenburg, Russia, 460000
Published: September 2018

In this paper, we propose a new method for 3D object reconstruction using an RGB-D sensor. The RGB-D sensor provides RGB images as well as depth images. Since the depth and RGB color images are captured with one sensor of an RGB-D camera placed in different locations, the depth image should be related to the color image. After matching of the images (registration), point-to-point corresponding between two images is found, and they can be combined and represented in the 3D space. In order to obtain a dense 3D map of the 3D object, we design an algorithm for merging information from all used cameras. First, features extracted from color and depth images are used to localize them in a 3D scene. Next, Iterative Closest Point (ICP) algorithm is used to align all frames. As a result, a new frame is added to the dense 3D model. However, the spatial distribution and resolution of depth data affect to the performance of 3D scene reconstruction system based on ICP. The presented computer simulation results show an improvement in accuracy of 3D object reconstruction using real data.
Application of spatial interpolation methods for restoration of partially defined images
Authors:   Samara National Research University, Moskovskoe Shosse 34, Samara, Russia, 443086, Vybornova Yuliya
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the practical applicability of spatial interpolation methods in the task of estimating the missing pixels of partially defined images. The paper presents three methods of spatial interpolation: inverse distance weighting, interpolation based on a triangulated irregular network, and kriging. The results of experimental research on these methods are given. Experiments show that all methods demonstrate a high quality of pixel prediction, but the choice of the most appropriate method directly depends on the input data.
The analysis of image characteristics on the base of energy features of the wavelet transform
Authors:   Kazan National Research Technical University -KAI, K. Marks 10, Kazan, Russia, 420111, Lyasheva Stella , Medvedev Mikhail ,   Kazan National Research Technical University -KAI, K. Marks 10, Kazan, Russia, 420111, Shleymovich Mikhail ,   Kazan National Research Technical University -KAI, K. Marks 10, Kazan, Russia, 420111, Mokshin Vladimir ,   Kazan National Research Technical University -KAI, K. Marks 10, Kazan, Russia, 420111
Published: September 2018

The article shows the relevance of creating models and methods that provide effective solutions to image processing and analyzing problems in computer vision systems. We consider models of an average level of image representation. They are constructed on the basis of their characteristic features (contours, regions and points of interest). To construct such models, we suggest using the procedure of forming energy features based on the wavelet transform. As a result, the original image will be transformed to a view where different points will have different weights. That characterize their contribution to the overall energy of the image. It is also possible to provide a selection of tuning coefficients. It allows to take into account the interrelations between the wavelet coefficients of various scales. After receiving the weight images, they can be processed to form the required characteristics. For example, to obtain contours, you can perform binarization of a weight image with a certain threshold. To get singular points, you can define a specified number of the most significant weights in different areas of the weight image. For texture analysis, you can use statistical characteristics calculated by the histogram of the scale.
Nadmorska kolej wąskotorowa jako atrakcja turystyczna gminy Rewal
Authors: Biernacka Martyna
Published: September 2018

W artykule zaprezentowano Nadmorską Kolej Wąskotorową jako atrakcję turystyczną gminy Rewal oraz wskazano na jej możliwy wpływ na rozwój turystyki poprzez kreowanie współpracy. Dokonano konceptualizacji pojęcia „atrakcja turystyczna”, nawiązując bezpośrednio do specyfiki atrakcji kolejowych. Ponadto autorka artykułu na podstawie przeglądu literatury zaproponowała własną definicję kolejowej atrakcji turystycznej. Opisano funkcjonowanie Nadmorskiej Kolei Wąskotorowej odnosząc się do jej historii oraz współczesnego, atrakcyjnego turystycznie wizerunku.
Oferta rekreacyjna wybranych parków wodnych w Polsce
Authors: Borowiecka Małgorzata
Published: September 2018

Celem pracy jest przeanalizowanie i porównanie oferty parków wodnych jako miejsc pozwalających na aktywne spędzenie wolnego czasu. Są to obiekty umożliwiające zabawę, rozrywkę i regenerację sił witalnych. Za sprawą różnorodnych elementów wyposażenia ich użytkownicy mogą wybrać zarówno wypoczynek bierny, jak i aktywny, dostępny w aquaparkach (najpopularniejszym typie parków wodnych) i obiektach termalnych, których dodatkową atrakcją jest gorąca woda (często o właściwościach leczniczych). Metodą badawczą był przegląd literatury i stron internetowych z zakresu rekreacji i aktywnego wypoczynku. Opracowanie zostało wzbogacone o analizę oferty rekreacyjnej parków wodnych reprezentujących poszczególne województwa w Polsce.
Oryginalne i zwyczajne pamiątki z Łodzi sposobem na zachowanie wspomnień z podróży
Authors: Klimczyk Barbara , Zwolińska Magdalena
Published: September 2018

Pamiątki są nieodłącznym elementem podróżowania. Turyści bardzo często chcą mieć jakieś materialne wspomnienie z podróży, dlatego niemalże w każdym miejscu, w którym się pojawiają można spotkać punkty sprzedaży pamiątek. Artykuł jest próbą przedstawienia charakterystyki pamiątek sprzedawanych w Łodzi. W pracy zdefiniowano pamiątkę turystyczną oraz ukazano klasyfikacje w świetle literatury. Przedstawiono przebieg i wyniki dokonanych badań na potrzeby przedmiotu „Projekt badawczy”, w ramach którego przeprowadzono inwentaryzacje łódzkich pamiątek.
Aktualny stan rozwoju hosteli na terenie Lublina
Authors: Myroshnichenko Liliia , Tucki Andrzej
Published: September 2018

Artykuł jest próbą przedstawienia poziomu rozwoju hosteli na terenie Lublina na tle wielkości bazy hostelowej w Polsce. Źródłem danych wykorzystanych w pracy jest Główny Urząd Statystyczny. W pracy dokonano charakterystyki lokalizacji obiektów na terenie Lublina, ich oferty oraz przedstawiono ocenę gości na podstawie wybranych portali rezerwacyjnych.
Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej „Przestrzeń rekreacji – granice i konteksty”, Łódź, 21–22 listopada 2017 r.
Authors: Daleszczyk Gabriela , Lewandowska Aleksandra , Raczkowska Ida
Published: September 2018

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Fungal Diseases in the 21st Century: The Near and Far Horizons
Authors: Casadevall Arturo
Published: September 2018

Fungal diseases became a major medical problem in the second half of the 20th century when advances in modern medicine together with the HIV epidemic resulted in large numbers of individuals with impaired immunity. Fungal diseases are difficult to manage because they tend to be chronic, hard to diagnose, and difficult to eradicate with antifungal drugs. This essay considers the future of medical mycology in the 21st century, extrapolating from current trends. In the near horizon, the prevalence of fungal diseases is likely to increase, as there will be more hosts with impaired immunity and drug resistance will inevitably increase after selection by antifungal drug use. We can expect progress in the development of new drugs, diagnostics, vaccines, and immunotherapies. In the far horizon, humanity may face new fungal diseases in association with climate change. Some current associations between chronic diseases and fungal infections could lead to the establishment of fungi as causative agents, which will greatly enhance their medical importance. All trends suggest that the importance of fungal diseases will increase in the 21st century, and enhanced human preparedness for this scourge will require more research investment in this group of infectious diseases.
\(\alpha_\beta\)-Connectedness as a characterization of connectedness
Authors: Tyagi B. K. , Bhardwaj Manoj , Singh Sumit
Published: September 2018

In this paper, a new class of \(\alpha_\beta\)-open sets in a topological space \(X\) is introduced which forms a topology on \(X\). The connectedness of this new topology on \(X\), called \(\alpha_\beta\)-connectedness, turns out to be equivalent to connectedness of \(X\) and hence also to \(\alpha\)-connectedness of \(X\). The \(\alpha_\beta\)-continuous and \(\alpha_\beta\)-irresolute mappings are defined and their relationship with other mappings such as continuous mappings and \(\alpha\)-continuous mappings are discussed. An intermediate value theorem is obtained. The hyperconnected spaces constitute a subclass of \(\alpha_\beta\)-connected spaces.
COLLAGEN ANALYSIS OF GRAFT IN BONE TUNNEL MODEL ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT (ACL) RECONSTRUCTION WITH INTRATUNNEL ALLOGENIC BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS (MSCs) AND VASCULAR ENDOTHELIAL GROWTH FACTOR (VEGF)
Authors: Petrasama Petrasama
Published: September 2018

ACL reconstruction measures aim to obtain stable knees, and reduce the risk of further injury to the meniscus and joint surfaces. Acceleration of the integration process between the tendon graft and the bone tunnel will improve the final result of ACL reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to investigate the collagen composition of the bone tunnel graft model of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with intravenous allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and vascular endothelial growth factor in experimental animals. The design of this study was Post-test only Control Group Design using 20 rabbits divided into treatment group and control group. Collagen immunohistochemical evaluation was performed at weeks 3 and 6. Evaluation at week 3 obtained the area of collagen type-1 in the higher treatment group at treatment (p <0.001). In the 6th week evaluation, it was found that the area of collagen type-1 in the treatment group was higher (p <0.05). Type-1 collagen at week 6 did not differ significantly with week 3 (p> 0.05). Provision of allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and intratonal vascular endothelial growth factor in ACL reconstruction enhanced the formation of collagen type-1 which is the acceleration of incorporation of the graft tendon process with bone tunnel.Keywords : Anterior Cruciate Ligament, allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stemcells, vascular endothelial growth factor, graft and collagen.
THE EFFECT OF INJECTION OF INTRA ARTICULAR ALLOGENIC BONE MARROW MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL-PLATELET CELL RICH PLASMA (BMSCs-PRP) ON FULL-THICKNESS ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFFECT REGENERATION IN RABBIT
Authors: Taufik S. Ahmad
Published: September 2018

The joint cartilage defectfullthickness is still a problem today because its currenttreatment still has not delivered maximum results. Current treatment uses cartilage enginering using mesenchymal stem cells alone and or combining growth factor. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of intra-articular injection of Allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell - Platelet rich plasma (BMSCs-PRP) on regeneration of cartilage defect fullthickness in rabbits. The design of this study was a post-test only control group design using 36 New Zealand white rabbits divided into three groups. Each group were treated with PRP, BMSCs and BMSCs-PRP. Results were evaluated after 10 weeks. In the evaluation, macroscopic images showed the best healing in the BMSCs-PRP group. Histopathologic examination showed that in the MSCs-PRP group, there was a significant increase in the number of chondrocytes (p = 0,000), cartilage area (p = 0,000), as well as the number of Agecoprogenitorexpec- tion cells (p = 0,000) and collagen type 2 (p = 0,000). BMSCs were able to differentiate into condroblasts which then synthesize aggressive and collagen type 2. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) contains growth factor BMP, TGF, FGF and IGF which can accelerate the occurrence of MSCs differentiation. Intra-articular injections Allogenic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell (BMSCs-PRP) is able to regenerate and cure full-thickness joint cartilage defects through differentiation of MSCs into condroblasts.Keyword: Allogenic, Bone marrow Mesenchymal stem cell, Cartilage, Platelet rich plasma, Full-thickness.
Pengujian Kualitas Tanah sebagai Indikator Cemaran Lingkungan di Sekitar Pantai Tanjung Lesung, Banten
Authors: Fitriani Nur Ayu , Fadillah Ganjar , Enriyani Riri
Published: September 2018

Telah dilakukan penelitian tentang analisis kualitas tanah Tanjung Lesung, Pandeglang, Banten. Penelitian ini dilakukan secara in situ dan pengujian lanjut di laboratorium. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian dan analisis baik secara in situ maupun laboratorium yang telah dilakukan pada sampel kebun tanah 1 dan 2 di daerah pantai Tanjung Lesung, Kabupaten Pandeglang, diperoleh bahwa nilai keasaman tanah (pH) berkisar antara 6-7, Kapasitas Tukar Kation (KTK) diperoleh sebesar 0,0804 dan 0,0809 meq/g secara berturut-turut untuk tanah kebun 1 dan 2 serta kandungan logam berat Pb, Cu, Cd dan Cr masih memenuhi ambang batas cemaran lingkungan tanah. Secara keseluruhan kondisi tanah di sekitar sampling masih memiliki kondisi yang baik dan belum tercemar.
Sexual, Social, and Genetic Network Overlap: A Socio-Molecular Approach Toward Public Health Intervention of HIV
Authors: Morgan Ethan , Skaathun Britt , Schneider John A.
Published: September 2018

Objectives. To determine how network-level factors influence individual risk of HIV acquisition, which is key in preventing disease transmission.

Methods. We recruited a cohort of young Black men who have sex with men (n = 618) in Chicago, Illinois, from 2013 to 2016. We identified potential molecular ties via pairwise genetic distance analysis of HIV pol sequences with links inferred between individuals whose sequences were 1.5% or less genetically distant. We defined clusters as 1 or more connections to another individual. We conducted entity resolution between confidant, sexual, referral, and Facebook network data between network types.

Results. Of 266 (43.0%) participants identified as HIV-positive, we obtained 86 (32.3%) genetic sequences. Of these, 35 (40.7%) were linked to 1 or more other sequence; however, none of these were identified in first-, second-, or third-degree confidant and sexual networks. Minimal overlap existed between genetic and Facebook ties.

Conclusions. These results suggest that HIV transmissions may have occurred before elicitation of network data; future studies should expand the data collection timeframe to more accurately determine risk networks. Virtual network data, such as Facebook, may be particularly useful in developing one’s risk environment.
The Spanish Flu, Epidemics, and the Turn to Biomedical Responses
Authors: Schwartz Jason L.
Published: September 2018

A century ago, nonpharmaceutical interventions such as school closings, restrictions on large gatherings, and isolation and quarantine were the centerpiece of the response to the Spanish Flu. Yet, even though its cause was unknown and the science of vaccine development was in its infancy, considerable enthusiasm also existed for using vaccines to prevent its spread. This desire far exceeded the scientific knowledge and technological capabilities of the time.

Beginning in the early 1930s, however, advances in virology and influenza vaccine development reshaped the relative priority given to biomedical approaches in epidemic response over traditional public health activities. Today, the large-scale implementation of nonpharmaceutical interventions akin to the response to the Spanish Flu would face enormous legal, ethical, and political challenges, but the enthusiasm for vaccines and other biomedical interventions that was emerging in 1918 has flourished.

The Spanish Flu functioned as an inflection point in the history of epidemic responses, a critical moment in the long transition from approaches dominated by traditional public health activities to those in which biomedical interventions are viewed as the most potent and promising tools in the epidemic response arsenal.
America’s Declining Well-Being, Health, and Life Expectancy: Not Just a White Problem
Authors: Muennig Peter A. , Reynolds Megan , Fink David S. , Zafari Zafar , Geronimus Arline T.
Published: September 2018

Although recent declines in life expectancy among non-Hispanic Whites, coined “deaths of despair,” grabbed the headlines of most major media outlets, this is neither a recent problem nor is it confined to Whites. The decline in America’s health has been described in the public health literature for decades and has long been hypothesized to be attributable to an array of worsening psychosocial problems that are not specific to Whites.

To test some of the dominant hypotheses, we show how various measures of despair have been increasing in the United States since 1980 and how these trends relate to changes in health and longevity. We show that mortality increases among Whites caused by the opioid epidemic come on the heels of the crack and HIV syndemic among Blacks. Both occurred on top of already higher mortality rates among all Americans relative to people in other nations, and both occurred among declines in measures of well-being.

We believe that the attention given to Whites is distracting researchers and policymakers from much more serious, longer-term structural problems that affect all Americans.
School Gardens in the United States: Current Barriers to Integration and Sustainability
Authors: Burt Kate G. , Luesse Hersh B. , Rakoff Jennifer , Ventura Andrea , Burgermaster Marissa
Published: September 2018

Objectives. To elucidate details about the barriers (time, funding, staffing, and space) to integrating and sustaining school gardens.

Methods. A total of 99 school gardeners from 15 states participated in an online survey in June 2017. The 29-item survey contained qualitative and quantitative items that we analyzed using descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis.

Results. In order of greatest to least barrier, gardeners ranked time, staff, funding, curriculum, and space. Time for classes to use the garden (66% of respondents) and time for staff training (62%) were the most frequently listed time-related challenges. Respondents also reported low engagement within the school community. An overall lack of funding was the most common funding-related barrier, and gardeners were unaware of how to obtain more funding.

Conclusions. We identified 3 aspects of school gardens as opportunities to address time- and staff-related issues: strengthening of garden committees, professional development, and community outreach. Better channels are needed to disseminate funding opportunities within schools and to communicate with communities at large. Ultimately, doing so will strengthen existing school gardens as a vehicle to promote dietary, physical, and social health within communities.
Adsorptive removal of cationic and anionic dyes using graphene oxide
Authors: Sabna V. , Thampi Santosh G. , Chandrakaran S.
Published: September 2018

This paper presents the results of comparative study on the application of graphene oxide (GO) for the adsorptive removal of crystal violet (CV) and methyl orange (MO) in batch mode. GO, synthesised from graphite, was characterised by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, point of zero charge (pHPZC) and ultra violet (UV) spectroscopy. Dispersion of GO in water revealed the conversion of hydrophobic graphite into hydrophilic. Performance with regard to adsorption of CV and MO on GO was evaluated at different values of the operational parameters such as contact time between GO and the dye molecules, dosage of GO, and initial concentration and pH of the dye solution. Uptake and percentage removal of the dyes increased with increase in contact time and adsorbent dosage, but declined with increase in initial concentration of the dye. Experimental data on the uptake of dye molecules by GO showed good ﬁt with the Freundlich isotherm model and the pseudo second order kinetic model. The maximum uptake by GO was higher for CV (207.4 mg/g) than that for MO (37.2 mg/g). Results indicate that GO is an effective adsorbent for the removal of CV but not for MO.
Adsorption of phosphorus by alkaline Tunisian soil in a fixed bed column
Authors: Beji Rihab , Hamdi Wissem , Kesraoui Aida , Seffen Mongi
Published: September 2018

The present study evaluates the phosphorus (P) adsorption by alkaline soil in fixed bed column mode operation. The effects of flow rate, bed height, and initial P concentration on breakthrough curves were evaluated. Data confirmed that both the breakthrough and exhaustion time increased in parallel with the rise in bed height and the decline in flow rate and initial P concentration. The adsorption capacity was observed to increase with decreasing flow rate and bed height and increasing initial concentration. Moreover, continuous adsorption experiments were conducted using three salts (NaCl, KCl and CaCl2) with the same concentration (0.01 M) to investigate the P adsorption behavior in saline conditions. The results showed that all three salts improve the P adsorption in the soil column. Consequently, the bed performance was significantly enhanced with salts addition. The maximum adsorption capacity of 13.47 mg g−1 for P, 16.13 mg g−1 for P-NaCl, 22.10 mg g−1 for P-KCl, 30.05 mg g−1 for P-CaCl2 was attained at an initial influent concentration of 300 mg g−1, bed height of 22 cm, and flow rate of 10 mL min−1. TheCaCl2 addition was therefore the most effective in increasing P adsorption. Thomas, Yoon-Nelson and Clark models were applied to experimental results to forecast the breakthrough curves by nonlinear regression analysis. Meanwhile, the bed depth service time model was employed to examine the effective model parameters in scaling up the process using linear regression analysis. The values of correlation coefficient (R2) and the sum of squared error evidenced that the Thomas model is the most appropriate model to fit the experimental data. The reusability experiment showed that the adsorbent material still had high P adsorption capacity, and tolerable desorption efficiency.
Numerical simulation and experimental study of electrocoagulation grid flocculation tank
Authors: Xiang Ping , Wan Yihui , Wang Xun , Lian Huilan
Published: September 2018

In recent years, electrocoagulation has been extensively studied on the removal of refractory pollutants. However, the application of electrocoagulation in actual flocculation tank is limited because of its high energy consumption, especially under the condition of large electrode plate spacing. In this study, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software – ANSYS Fluent had been used to simulate the flow state of grid flocculation tank, for the purposes of optimizing the design parameters. The simulation results showed that vortex velocity gradient was stronger, the grid plate spacing was smaller when the velocity was 0.13 m s−1, perforation size was 25 × 25 mm, porosity was 31.25%. And the optimal grid plate spacing was 250 mm. Moreover, in order to prove the reasonableness of simulation results, the humic acid wastewater was treated by electrocoagulation process in the specific device which was built based on simulation results. The results showed that the optimal condition of orthogonal test were as follows: the initial pH was 8, the concentration of sodium chloride was 5 mmol L−1, the voltage was 15 V; and the power time was 60 min. This study greatly narrowed the grid plate spacing, optimized design parameters under the circumstances of strong turbulent intensity and provided a theoretical basis for the combination of electrocoagulation and hydraulic flocculation.
Enhanced adsorption performance of methylene blue from aqueous solutions onto modified adsorbents prepared from sewage sludge
Authors: Chen Tao , Yan Bo , Xu Da-Mao , Li Li-li
Published: September 2018

In the present work, an attractive and creative adsorbent derived from sewage sludge was freshly fabricated via pyrolysis technology, followed by modification for improving the absorptive ability. First, the (NH4)2S2O8 modified pyrolytic sludge (MSAP) was selected from 19 modified pyrolytic sludges for the highest removal efficiency and adsorption capacity for methylene blue (MB). Then, the adsorption performance for MB of MSAP was compared systematically with the pristine adsorbent (MSDW) by batch adsorption experiments. The main conclusions were that the adsorption process was better fitted with the Langmuir model, and the maximum adsorption capacity (qmax) of MSAP was observed to be 149.05 mg g−1. Moreover, the adsorption kinetics data showed a good fit with the pseudo second order model; when the addition of MSAP was 1.0 g·L−1, the rate constant was 0.05 g·mg−1·min−1, which was far greater than that of the other modified adsorbents.
The use of sea shell (Donax trunculus) powder to remove Sr(II) ions from aqueous solutions
Authors: Bulut Aysun , Yusan Sabriye , Aytas Sule , Sert Senol
Published: September 2018

This study aimed to investigate and explore the possibility of using ground sea shell powder (Donax trunculus) (SSP) for sorption of Sr(II) ions from aqueous solutions. The maximum removal of Sr(II) removal in SSP was 60% at initial Sr(II) concentration of 25 mg/L, at pH 6.0, contact time 120 min, temperature 25 °C and volume/mass ratio equivalent to 500. Sorption data were interpreted considering the adsorption isotherms and thermodynamic parameters calculated. The maximum Sr(II) adsorption on SSP was 25.45 mg/g at pH 6.0. Freundlich isotherm and Dubinin–Radushkevich models were seen to be more compatible with the sorption equilibrium. The nature of the process was spontaneous and exothermic. The results suggest that SSP could be used as an efficient and cost-effective adsorbent to remove strontium ion.
Performance of the first stage of the French system of vertical flow constructed wetlands with only two units in parallel: influence of pulse time and instantaneous hydraulic loading rate
Authors: García Zumalacarregui Jorge A. , von Sperling Marcos
Published: September 2018

The technology of vertical flow constructed wetlands – French system for treating raw wastewater depends on several hydraulic factors, one of them being the duration of the pulse feeding and the resulting instantaneous hydraulic loading rate. This paper analyses two scenarios in the same system, the first of a faster feeding by pump and the second of a slower feeding by siphon, both with instantaneous hydraulic loading rate values lower than the literature recommendations. The system treated raw wastewater from a population equivalent of 100 p.e. in Brazil, and was comprised by only the first stage and two units in parallel. The shorter duration of feeding time and higher instantaneous hydraulic loading rate were associated with significantly higher chemical oxygen demand and total Kjeldahl nitrogen removal efficiencies, but with no significant differences in terms of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and suspended solids (SS). Oxygen concentrations and redox potential in the effluent were evaluated, together with the effluent flow rate profiles. The removal efficiencies were associated with the accumulation of solids in the upper part of the filter resulting from seven years of operation and to the operating hydraulic conditions, which are important elements in the performance of the system.
Greenhouse gas emissions from membrane bioreactors: analysis of a two-year survey on different MBR configurations
Authors: Mannina Giorgio , Chandran Kartik , Capodici Marco , Cosenza Alida , Di Trapani Daniele , van Loosdrecht Mark C. M.
Published: September 2018

This study aimed at evaluating the nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from membrane bioreactors (MBRs) for wastewater treatment. The study investigated the N2O emissions considering multiple influential factors over a two-year period: (i) different MBR based process configurations; (ii) wastewater composition (municipal or industrial); (iii) operational conditions (i.e. sludge retention time, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, C/N, hydraulic retention time); (iv) membrane modules. Among the overall analysed configurations, the highest N2O emission occurred from the aerated reactors. The treatment of industrial wastewater, contaminated with salt and hydrocarbons, provided the highest N2O emission factor (EF): 16% of the influent nitrogen for the denitrification/nitrification-MBR plant. The lowest N2O emission (EF = 0.5% of the influent nitrogen) was obtained in the biological phosphorus removal-moving bed-MBR plant likely due to an improvement in biological performances exerted by the co-presence of both suspended and attached biomass. The influent C/N ratio has been identified as a key factor affecting the N2O production. Indeed, a decrease of the C/N ratio (from 10 to 2) promoted the increase of N2O emissions in both gaseous and dissolved phases, mainly related to a decreased efficiency of the denitrification processes.
Formation and performance of self-forming dynamic membrane (SFDM) in membrane bioreactor (MBR) for treating low-strength wastewater
Authors: Sabaghian M. , Mehrnia M. R. , Esmaieli M. , Noormohammadi D.
Published: September 2018

This study introduces a self-forming dynamic membrane (SFDM) with large-pore mesh filter materials instead of conventional MF/UF membranes for wastewater treatment. Development of SFDM on the mesh filter surface plays a major role in reducing the wastewater turbidity and its performance in a self-formation dynamic membrane bioreactor (SFDMBR). To evaluate formation of the dynamic membrane, biological and hydrodynamic parameters, including mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) and aeration rate, were examined. The experimental results showed that with elevation of MLSS in the bioreactor (up to MLSS = 9,000 mg/L), the effluent turbidity diminishes with rapid formation of SFDM, with the shortest formation time (5 min) obtained in SFDM operations, though it results in increased membrane fouling. SFDM was well formed at low aeration rates of 2.5 L/min and 5 L/min, due to very low shear stress on the mesh filter surface, given the results of turbidity in comparison with aeration rates of 10 L/min and 15 L/min. The filtration performance of SFDM in treatment of synthetic wastewater was tested under a constant operational flux (58 L/m2 h). Total chemical oxygen demand (COD) and NH4-N removals were 88–93% and 96–98.8%, respectively. These results indicated that the treatment process can be performed effectively by SFDMBR.