bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ОЦІНКА СТІЙКОСТІ СХИЛУ ТА ГІДРОГЕОЛОГІЧНОГО РЕЖИМУ НА ПЕРІОД БУДІВНИЦТВА ТА ЕКСПЛУАТАЦІЇ АДМІНІСТРАТИВНО-ГРОМАДСЬКОГО КОМПЛЕКСУ ПО ВУЛ. І. МАЗЕПИ, 1 В М. КИЄВІ
Authors: ШУМІНСЬКИЙ В.Д. , СТЕПАНЧУК С.В. , СЛОБОДЯНІК І.Ю. , СТЕПАНЧУК Н.В. , КОСТЕЦЬКА С.М.
Published: September 2019

Ущільнення забудови сучасних мегаполісів примушує здійснювати будівництво на територіях зі складними рельєфом, інженерно-геологічними умовами і небезпечними геологічними процесами.На прикладі проектування адміністративно-громадського комплексу виконана оцінка стійкості схилу прилеглої території в період будівництва та впливу гідрогеологічного режиму на комплекс після завершення будівництва, а також визначено приток води в котлован та фільтраційні параметри підземного потоку на майданчику будівництва.Оцінка стійкості схилу виконувалась з урахуван-ням будівництва адміністративно-громадського комплексу для природного стану ґрунтів та при повному їх водонасиченні.Розрахунок притоку води в котлован заснований на теорії фільтрації, що розроблена Н.Н. Павловським.Фільтраційна міцність ґрунту при виході ґрунтових вод в котлован оцінюється на основі розрахунків та експериментальних досліджень ґрунтів при діючих на майданчику будівництва градієнтах напору та особливостей конструкцій.З ціллю аналізу впливу комплексу після закінчення будівництва на гідрогеологічний режим виконано чисельне моделювання руху підземних вод. Моделювання виконувалосьза допомогою обчислювальної програми, що розраховує тримірний фільтраційний потік, баланс водних мас, масоперенос та дозволяє визначити всі необхідні параметри ґрунтового потоку, а також побудувати карту гідроізогіпс для існуючих рівнів ґрунтових вод та їх прогнозованого підйому на 1,5 м та візуалізувати отримані результати. Ці розрахунки дозволяють оцінити можливість підтоплення існуючих будівель на прилеглій території в результаті виникнення «баражного ефекту», що викликаний заглибленням підземної частини комплексу нижче рівня ґрунтових вод.Представлені результати досліджень можуть бути використані при прийнятті технічних рішень щодо підвищення стійкості схилу з урахуванням будівництва, а також вибору конструктивних методів захисту від фільтраційного випору ґрунту в котловані при будівництві та захисту фундаментів і підземних конструкцій від підтоплення підземними водами в результаті зміни гідрогеологічного режиму.
НАДІЙНІСТЬ ТА БЕЗПЕКА ГІДРОТЕХНІЧНИХ СПОРУД В УМОВАХ ТРИВАЛОЇ ЕКСПЛУАТАЦІЇ
Authors: ФАРЕНЮК Г. Г. , ВАЙНБЕРГ О. І. , ХЛАПУК М.М. , ШУМІНСЬКИЙ В. Д.
Published: September 2019

У статті розглянуто питання забезпечення надійності та безпеки гідротехнічних споруд, що знаходяться в тривалій експлуатації. Наведено загальну характеристику гідроенергетичних об'єктів України, у тому числі Дніпровського каскаду ГЕС. Показано, що важливою проблемою гідроенергетики України слід вважати розробку спеціальних заходів щодо забезпечення безпеки гідротехнічних споруд Дніпровського каскаду ГЕС, що знаходяться в тривалій експлуатації. Дано аналіз діючих в Україні нормативних документів, що регламентують вимоги та забезпечують безпеку гідротехнічних споруд. Показано, що в даний час в Україні діє низка застарілих нормативних документів щодо надійності і безпеки гідротехнічних споруд при їх проектуванні, будівництві та експлуатації. Тому необхідно невідкладно організувати роботу зі створення сучасної нормативної бази щодо проектування, будівництва та експлуатації гідротехнічних споруд. Для правового регулювання діяльності із забезпечення безпеки гідротехнічних споруд необхідно якнайшвидше завершити розробку проекту та прийняття Закону України «Про безпеку гідротехнічних споруд». Наведено підходищодо забезпечення безпеки гідротехнічних споруд, тривалість експлуатації яких не перевищує проектного терміну служби. Критерії безпеки і технічні стани, що застосовуються в даний час до гідротехнічних споруд, що експлуатуються, є застарілими. Тому, на основі проведення спеціальних досліджень, необхідно розробити новий сучасний нормативний акт, що регламентує підходи до визначення критеріїв безпеки та відповідних цим критеріям технічних станів гідротехнічних споруд, що експлуатуються. Дано обґрунтування підходів, що дозволяють забезпечити безпеку гідротехнічних споруд, що експлуатуються, після закінчення призначеного терміну служби.
Підходи до з’ясування сутності поліцейських послуг: вітчизняні реалії та зарубіжна практика
Authors: Циганов О. Г.
Published: September 2019

У статті досліджено «відсутність зброї» як ознака права на мирні зібрання. Досліджено загальноприйняте лінгвістичне розуміння поняття «зброя», а також нормативно закріплені поняття «зброя» у підзаконних нормативно-правових актах. На підставі аналізу поняття «зброя» та його співставлення з умовами здійснення права на мирні зібрання сформульовано складові елементи такої ознаки права на мирні зібрання, як «відсутність зброї».
PENGARUH STATUS LENGAS TANAH TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN DAN PRODUKSI TANAMAN SEMANGKA LOKAL
Authors: Erawan Dedi , Rakian Tresjia C.
Published: September 2019

Abstract                Watermelon fruit is favored because of its sweet and fresh fruit flavor, but in the market it is often found the taste of watermelon that is less sweet (tasteless). The sweet taste of watermelon is much influenced by environmental conditions, especially climate factors (rainfall). Generally fruit produced from areas with high rainfall often produces a less sweet taste. This study aims to determine the effect of soil moisture status on the growth and production of local watermelons. This study was compiled based on a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 3 replications. The treatment given is soil moisture status, consisting of 4 levels, namely: L1 = KAT 100% of field capacity, L2 = KAT 80% of field capacity, L3 = KAT 60% of field capacity and L4 = KAT 40% of field capacity.  Observation data were analyzed using variance (F test) 5% real level and continued with further BNT test at the 5% test level. The results showed that soil moisture status and potassium fertilizer dosage had a significant effect on plant height at 4, 6 da, 8 weeks after planting and gave a significant effect on leaf area at 6 weeks of age. Keywords: Soil moisture, Watermelon. Abstrak            Buah semangka disukai karena rasa buahnya yang manis dan segar, namun dipasaran sering dijumpai rasa buah semangka yang kurang manis (tawar). Rasa manis buah semangka banyak dipengaruhi oleh kondisi lingkungan, terutama factor iklim  (curah hujan).  Umumnya buah yang dihasilkan dari daerah dengan curah hujan tinggi sering menghasilkan rasa yang kurang manis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh status lengas tanah terhadap pertumbuhan dan produksi buah semangka lokal. Penelitian ini disusun berdasarkan Rancangan Acak Kelompok dengan 3 kali ulangan.  Perlakuan yang diberikan adalah status lengas tanah,  terdiri dari 4 taraf yaitu : L1 = KAT 100% dari kapasitas lapang, L2 = KAT 80% dari kapasitas lapang, L3 = KAT 60% dari kapasitas lapang dan L4 = KAT 40% dari kapasitas lapang,  Data pengamatan dianalisa dengan menggunakan sidik ragam (uji F)  taraf nyata 5% dan dilanjutkan dengan uji lanjut BNT pada taraf uji 5%.  Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa status lengas tanah dan dosis pupuk kalium memberikan pengaruh nyata terhadap tinggi tanaman pada umur 4, 6 da, 8 minggu setelah tanam dan memberikan pengaruh nyata terhadap luas daun pada umur 6 minggu.   Kata Kunci : Lengas Tanah, Semangka
The Factors Affecting Farmers’ Soybean Planting Behavior in Heilongjiang Province, China
Authors: Liu Shiwei , Zhang Pingyu , Marley Ben , Liu Wenxin
Published: September 2019

Under the threat of food insecurity, the Chinese government has created plans and policies to stimulate soybean production. Despite government efforts to stimulate production, based on predictions, planned targets for soybean production are unlikely. Consequently, the predictions raise questions about farmers’ intentions to increase soybean cultivating area. In other words, farmers may not be willing to increase soybean. However, few researchers have studied soybean farmers’ intention and behavior. With these concerns in mind, this study analyzed the intention and factors that influence farmers’ choice of increasing soybean production as well as evaluating the differences in the decision making between commercial and subsistence farmers. This study collected data from 155 randomly selected families in 23 villages in the major soybean area in Heilongjiang Province. Results showed that 42.6% of the farmers expressed that they would expand soybean planting area, while the rest would insist on previous planting habits. The capacity to increase soybean production confronted many constraints. Farmers’ age, farm income, land topography, and ease of selling all positively influence farmers’ behavior. A significant difference in decision making between subsistence and commercial farmers was found. Subsistence farmers were more affected by land topography, agricultural insurance status, and satisfaction of soybean subsidies, whereas commercial farmers were more affected by farming experience and farm income. As a result, soybean policies should focus on increasing farmers’ income, promoting large-scale planting, training young farmers, innovation of agricultural insurance, and strengthening construction of agricultural infrastructure.
Evaluation of the Agronomic Performance of Organic Processing Tomato as Affected by Different Cover Crop Residues Management
Authors: Abou Chehade Lara , Antichi Daniele , Martelloni Luisa , Frasconi Christian , Sbrana Massimo , Mazzoncini Marco , Peruzzi Andrea
Published: September 2019

No-till practices reduce soil erosion, conserve soil organic carbon, and enhance soil fertility. Yet, many factors could limit their adoption in organic farming. The present study investigated the effects of tillage and cover cropping on weed biomass, plant growth, yield, and fruit quality of an organic processing tomato (Solanum lycopersicon L. var. Elba F1) over two seasons (2015–2017). We compared systems where processing tomato was transplanted on i) tilled soil following or not a winter cover crop (Trifolium squarrosum L.) and with/without a biodegradable plastic mulch; and ii) no-till where clover was used, after rolling and flaming, as dead mulch. Tomato in no-till suffered from high weed competition and low soil nitrogen availability leading to lower plant growth, N uptake, and yield components with respect to tilled systems. The total yield in no-till declined to 6.8 and 18.3 t ha−1 in 2016 and 2017, respectively, with at least a 65% decrease compared to tilled clover-based systems. No evidence of growth-limiting soil compaction was noticed but a slightly higher soil resistance was in the no-till topsoil. Tillage and cover crop residues did not significantly change tomato quality (pH, total soluble solids, firmness). The incorporation of clover as green manure was generally more advantageous over no-till. This was partly due to the low performance of the cover crop where improvement may limit the obstacles (i.e., N supply and weed infestation) and enable the implementation of no-till in organic vegetable systems.
Efficient Driving Plan and Validation of Aircraft NLG Emergency Extension System via Mixture of Reliability Models and Test Bench
Authors: Zhu Zhengzheng , Feng Yunwen , Lu Cheng , Fei Chengwei
Published: September 2019

The emergence extension system (a mechanical system) of nose landing gear (NLG) seriously influences the reliability, safety and airworthiness of civil aircrafts. To efficiently realize the NLG emergence extension, a promising driving plan of emergence extension is proposed in respect of the reliability sensitivity analyses with a mixture of models. The working principle, fault tree analysis and four reliability models are firstly discussed for NLG emergence extension. In respect of the mixture of models, the reliability sensitivity analyses of emergence extension are then performed under different flight speeds (270 Kts, 250 Kts, 220 Kts, and 180 Kts). We find dimpling torque and aerodynamic torques of forward and after doors are the top three failure factors and the start reliability is the most in emergence extension failures. Regarding the results, feasible driving plans of NLG emergence extension are developed by adjusting the aerodynamic torque of NLG forward door, and are validated by the aerodynamic torque experiment of forward door with regard to strut rotational angle under the flight speed 270 Kts. It is indicated that (1) the adverse torque generated by the new driving mechanism obviously reduces by about 24.8% from 1462.8 N·m to 1099.6 N·m, and the transmission ratio of aerodynamic torque (force) is greatly improved when the NLG strut is lowered near to 100°; (2) under different flight speeds (180 Kts, 220 Kts, 250 Kts, and 270 Kts), the new driving mechanism realizes the lower tasks of emergence extension which cannot be completed by the initial driving mechanism; and (3) the lowering time of the new driving mechanism shortens with the increasing flight speed. The proposed new driving mechanism is verified to be reliable for emergence extension of aircraft NLG besides normal extension and to be a promising feasible driving plan with high lowering reliability. The efforts of the paper provide an efficient driving mechanism for the design of NLG in civil and military aircrafts.
Incomplete Similarity Error Analysis Method of Steel Frame Structure Based on Correlation
Authors: Zhao Dongzhuo , Wang Zhan , Pan Jianrong
Published: September 2019

In most scale model tests of steel frame structures, researchers have usually paid more attention to the outcome of one single experiment rather than to the similitude error between the scale model and the prototype. As a result, only the experimental data of the scale model are obtained rather than the relationship between the scale model and the prototype, which greatly limits scale model tests in the investigation and is also a significant waste of resources. In addition, the effect of the geometric incomplete similarity in steel joints and its contribution to similitude error of the entire frame has rarely been evaluated in the past. This paper is based on similarity theory, investigating the effect of three incomplete geometric similarity factors on the similitude error between a scale model and a prototype, which are the geometric similarity of steel components, the stiffness of steel joints and the stiffness of the column base. Global sensitivity is found by calculation. Furthermore, this paper presents the correlation of the three factors mentioned based on structural sensitivity analysis by use of BP (Back Propagation) algorithm. A method to investigate the similitude error between the scale model and prototype is proposed that can correct similitude errors in the experimental results.
Fusaricidin-Type Compounds Create Pores in Mitochondrial and Plasma Membranes of Mammalian Cells
Authors: Mikkola Raimo , Andersson Maria , Kharechkina Ekaterina , Kruglova Svetlana , Kruglov Alexey
Published: September 2019

Fusaricidins and related LI-F compounds are effective bactericides and fungicides. Recently, we have found that they are highly toxic to mammalian cells. Here, we studied the effect of fusaricidin-type compounds (FTCs) on the membranes of mammalian cells. Ethanol extracts from Paenibacillus polymyxa strains, RS10 and I/Sim, were fractionated and analyzed by HPLC and mass spectrometry. The effects of FTCs on mitochondrial functions and integrity were studied by standard methods: measurements of swelling, membrane potential (ΔΨm), respiration rate, cytochrome c release, and pore sizes. Superoxide flashes were registered by 3,7-dihydro-2-methyl-6-(4-methoxyphenyl)imidazol[1,2-a]pyrazine-3-one (MCLA). Plasma membrane permeability was assessed by propidium iodide (PI) staining and ATP release. FTCs caused the permeabilization of the inner mitochondria membrane (IMM) to ions and low-molecular-weight (~750 Da) solutes. The permeabilization did not depend on the permeability transition pore (mPTP) but was strongly dependent on ΔΨm. Fusaricidins A plus B, LI-F05a, and LI-F05b–LI-F07b permeabilized IMM with comparable efficiency. They created pores and affected mitochondrial functions and integrity similarly to mPTP opening. They permeabilized the sperm cell plasma membrane to ATP and PI. Thus, the formation of pores in polarized membranes underlays the toxicity of FTCs to mammals. Besides, FTCs appeared to be superior reference compounds for mPTP studies.
Prediction of PD-L1 Expression in Neuroblastoma via Computational Modeling
Authors: Lombardo Salvo Danilo , Presti Mario , Mangano Katia , Petralia Maria Cristina , Basile Maria Sofia , Libra Massimo , Candido Saverio , Fagone Paolo , Mazzon Emanuela , Nicoletti Ferdinando , Bramanti Alessia
Published: September 2019

Immunotherapy is a promising new therapeutic approach for neuroblastoma (NBM): an anti-GD2 vaccine combined with orally administered soluble beta-glucan is undergoing a phase II clinical trial and nivolumab and ipilimumab are being tested in recurrent and refractory tumors. Unfortunately, predictive biomarkers of response to immunotherapy are currently not available for NBM patients. The aim of this study was to create a computational network model simulating the different intracellular pathways involved in NBM, in order to predict how the tumor phenotype may be influenced to increase the sensitivity to anti-programmed cell death-ligand-1 (PD-L1)/programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) immunotherapy. The model runs on COPASI software. In order to determine the influence of intracellular signaling pathways on the expression of PD-L1 in NBM, we first developed an integrated network of protein kinase cascades. Michaelis–Menten kinetics were associated to each reaction in order to tailor the different enzymes kinetics, creating a system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The data of this study offers a first tool to be considered in the therapeutic management of the NBM patient undergoing immunotherapeutic treatment.
Recent Advances in Seeded and Seed-Layer-Free Atomic Layer Deposition of High-K Dielectrics on Graphene for Electronics
Authors: Schilirò Emanuela , Lo Nigro Raffaella , Roccaforte Fabrizio , Giannazzo Filippo
Published: September 2019

Graphene (Gr) with its distinctive features is the most studied two-dimensional (2D) material for the new generation of high frequency and optoelectronic devices. In this context, the Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) of ultra-thin high-k insulators on Gr is essential for the implementation of many electronic devices. However, the lack of out-of-plane bonds in the sp2 lattice of Gr typically hinders the direct ALD growth on its surface. To date, several pre-functionalization and/or seed-layer deposition processes have been explored, to promote the ALD nucleation on Gr. The main challenge of these approaches is achieving ultra-thin insulators with nearly ideal dielectric properties (permittivity, breakdown field), while preserving the structural and electronic properties of Gr. This paper will review recent developments of ALD of high k-dielectrics, in particular Al2O3, on Gr with “in-situ” seed-layer approaches. Furthermore, recent reports on seed-layer-free ALD onto epitaxial Gr on SiC and onto Gr grown by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on metals will be presented, discussing the role played by Gr interaction with the underlying substrates.
C-O Bond Hydrogenolysis of Aqueous Mixtures of Sugar Polyols and Sugars over ReOx-Rh/ZrO2 Catalyst: Application to an Hemicelluloses Extracted Liquor
Authors: Mounguengui-Diallo Modibo , Sadier Achraf , Noly Eddi , Da Silva Perez Denilson , Pinel Catherine , Perret Noémie , Besson Michèle
Published: September 2019

The recovery and upgrade of hemicelluloses, a family of heteropolysaccharides in wood, is a key step to making lignocellulosic biomass conversion a cost-effective sustainable process in biorefinery. The comparative selective catalytic C-O bond hydrogenolysis of C5-C6 polyols, sugars, and their mixtures for the production of valuable C6 and C5 deoxygenated products was studied at 200 °C under 80 bar H2 over ReOx-Rh/ZrO2 catalysts. The sugars were rapidly converted to the polyols or converted into their hydrogenolysis products. Regardless of the reactants, C-O bond cleavage occurred significantly via multiple consecutive deoxygenation steps and led to the formation of linear deoxygenated C6 or C5 polyols. The distribution of products depended on the nature of the substrate and C-C bond scission was more important from monosaccharides. In addition, we demonstrated effective hydrogenolysis of a hemicellulose-extracted liquor from delignified maritime pine containing monosaccharides and low MW oligomers. Compared with the sugar-derived polyols, the mono- and oligosaccharides in the liquor were more rapidly converted to hexanediols or pentanediols. C-O bond scission was significant, giving a yield of desired deoxygenated products as high as 65%, higher than in the reaction of the synthetic mixture of glucose/xylose of the same C6/C5 sugar ratio (yield of 30%).
The Role of SO3 Poisoning in CU/SSZ-13 NH3-SCR Catalysts
Authors: Wang Chen , Hou Yaqin , Yan Wenjun , Zhang Yun , Wang Jun , Wang Jianqiang , Shen Meiqing , Kang Xue
Published: September 2019

To reveal the role of SO3 poisoning in Cu/SSZ-13 NH3-SCR catalysts, fresh and sulfated Cu/SSZ-13 catalysts were prepared in the presence or absence of SO3 flux. The deactivation mechanism is probed by the changes of structural, copper species, and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) activity. The variations concentrate on the changes of copper species as the Chabazite (CHA) framework of Cu/SSZ-13 catalysts could keep intact at high ratios of SO3/SOx. The thermal gravimetric analyzer (TGA) results reveal that the copper sulfate formed during sulfation and the amounts of sulfate species increased with an increase in the SO3/SOx ratio. In contrast to the changing trend of copper sulfate, temperature program reduction (H2-TPR), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) results manifest that, since the number of active copper ions declines with an increase of the SO3/SOx ratio, the active sites transform to these inactive species during sulfation. Due to the combination of NH3-SCR activity and the kinetic tests, it is shown that the decreased number of active sites is responsible for the declined SCR activity at low temperature. As Cu/SSZ-13 catalysts show excellent acid-resistance ability, our study reveals that the Cu/SSZ-13 catalyst is a good candidate for NOx elimination, especially when SO3 exists.
Lyotropic Liquid Crystals from Colloidal Suspensions of Graphene Oxide
Authors: Draude Adam P. , Dierking Ingo
Published: September 2019

Lyotropic liquid crystals from colloidal particles have been known for more than a century, but have attracted a revived interest over the last few years. This is due to the developments in nanoscience and nanotechnology, where the liquid crystal order can be exploited to orient and reorient the anisotropic colloids, thus enabling, increasing and switching the preferential properties of the nanoparticles. In particular, carbon-based colloids like carbon nanotubes and graphene/graphene–oxide have increasingly been studied with respect to their lyotropic liquid crystalline properties over the recent years. We critically review aspects of lyotropic graphene oxide liquid crystal with respect to properties and behavior which seem to be generally established, but also discuss those effects that are largely unfamiliar so far, or as of yet of controversial experimental or theoretical outcome.
Food Wastes as a Potential New Source for Edible Insect Mass Production for Food and Feed: A review
Authors: Varelas Vassileios
Published: September 2019

About one-third of the food produced annually worldwide ends up as waste. A minor part of this waste is used for biofuel and compost production, but most is landfilled, causing environmental damage. Mass production of edible insects for human food and livestock feed seems a sustainable solution to meet demand for animal-based protein, which is expected to increase due to rapid global population growth. The aim of this review was to compile up-to-date information on mass rearing of edible insects for food and feed based on food wastes. The use and the potential role of the fermentation process in edible insect mass production and the potential impact of this rearing process in achieving an environmentally friendly and sustainable food industry was also assessed. Food waste comprises a huge nutrient stock that could be valorized to feed nutritionally flexible edible insects. Artificial diets based on food by-products for black soldier fly, house fly, mealworm, and house cricket mass production have already been tested with promising results. The use of fermentation and fermentation by-products can contribute to this process and future research is proposed towards this direction. Part of the sustainability of the food sector could be based on the valorization of food waste for edible insect mass production. Further research on functional properties of reared edible insects, standardization of edible insects rearing techniques, safety control aspects, and life cycle assessments is needed for an insect-based food industry.
Evaluation of Lignan Compound Content and Bioactivity of Raw Omija and Sugared Omija in Serum of Sprague Dawley Rat
Authors: Hwa Sung-Hyun , Yeon Su-Jung , Hong Go-Eun , Cho Won-Young , Lee Ha-Jung , Kim Ji-Han , Lee Chi-Ho
Published: September 2019

This study evaluated the lignan contents of raw omija (R) and sugared omija (S), byproducts discarded after the use of raw omija, by HPLC and determined their bioactivity by feeding rats R and S for eight weeks. S retained 63% more lignan than R. Body weight gains in the raw omija-fed group (RO) and sugared omija-fed group (SO) decreased significantly compared to that of the control group (CON, p < 0.05). Glucose and aspartate aminotransferase levels in the serum of the experimental groups were lower than those in CON, especially in SO (p < 0.05). The amount of atrial natriuretic peptide in RO decreased significantly compared to that in CON (p < 0.05). The renin activity in RO increased and that in SO decreased compared to the same in CON (p > 0.05). Therefore, it was suggested that sugared omija contains lignan compounds and potentially contributes to bioactivity in that it decreases blood glucose levels and blood pressure.
Remote Sensing and GIS Contribution to a Natural Hazard Database in Western Saudi Arabia
Authors: Theilen-Willige Barbara , Wenzel Helmut
Published: September 2019

The most frequent disasters in Western Saudi Arabia are flash floods, earthquakes and volcanism, especially submarine volcanism potentially causing tsunamis in the Red Sea and submarine mass movements, dust storms and droughts. As the consequences and effects of the climate change are expected to have an increasing impact on the intensity and occurrence of geohazards as flash floods, length of drought periods, or dust storms, the systematic, continuous monitoring of these hazards and affected areas using satellite data and integration of the results into a geographic information systems (GIS) database is an important issue for hazard preparedness and risk assessment. Visual interpretation and digital image processing of optical aerial and satellite images, as well as of radar images, combined with Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER), Shuttle Radar Topographic Mission (SRTM) and Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS) PALSAR DEM data are used in this study for the mapping and inventory of areas prone to geohazards, such as flash floods or tsunami flooding. Causal or critical environmental factors influencing the disposition to be affected by hazards can be analyzed interactively in a GIS database. How remote sensing and GIS methods can contribute to the detection and continuously, standardized monitoring of geohazards in Western Saudi Arabia as part of a natural hazard geodatabase is demonstrated by several examples, such as the detection of areas prone to hydrological hazards, such as flash floods causing flooding of roads and settlements, the outlining of coastal areas of the Red Sea prone to tsunami flooding and storm surge, the mapping of traces of recent volcanic activity, and of fault/fracture zones and structural features, especially of ring structures.
Three-Dimensional CFD Simulation and Experimental Assessment of the Performance of a H-Shape Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine at Design and Off-Design Conditions
Authors: Franchina Nicoletta , Kouaissah Otman , Persico Giacomo , Savini Marco
Published: September 2019

The paper presents the results of a computational study on the aerodynamics and the performance of a small-scale Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine (VAWT) for distributed micro-generation. The complexity of VAWT aerodynamics, which are inherently unsteady and three-dimensional, makes high-fidelity flow models extremely demanding in terms of computational cost, limiting the analysis to mainly 2D or 2.5D Computational Fluid-Dynamics (CFD) approaches. This paper discusses how a proper setting of the computational model opens the way for carrying out fully 3D unsteady CFD simulations of a VAWT. Key aspects of the flow model and of the numerical solution are discussed, in view of limiting the computational cost while maintaining the reliability of the predictions. A set of operating conditions is considered, in terms of tip-speed-ratio (TSR), covering both peak efficiency condition as well as off-design operation. The fidelity of the numerical predictions is assessed via a systematic comparison with the experimental benchmark data available for this turbine, consisting of both performance and wake measurements carried out in the large-scale wind tunnel of the Politecnico di Milano. The analysis of the flow field on the equatorial plane allows highlighting its time-dependent evolution, with the aim of identifying both the periodic flow structures and the onset of dynamic stall. The full three-dimensional character of the computations allows investigating the aerodynamics of the struts and the evolution of the trailing vorticity at the tip of the blades, eventually resulting in periodic large-scale vortices.
Encrypting and Preserving Sensitive Attributes in Customer Churn Data Using Novel Dragonfly Based Pseudonymizer Approach
Authors: Nagaraj Kalyan , GS Sharvani , Sridhar Amulyashree
Published: September 2019

With miscellaneous information accessible in public depositories, consumer data is the knowledgebase for anticipating client preferences. For instance, subscriber details are inspected in telecommunication sector to ascertain growth, customer engagement and imminent opportunity for advancement of services. Amongst such parameters, churn rate is substantial to scrutinize migrating consumers. However, predicting churn is often accustomed with prevalent risk of invading sensitive information from subscribers. Henceforth, it is worth safeguarding subtle details prior to customer-churn assessment. A dual approach is adopted based on dragonfly and pseudonymizer algorithms to secure lucidity of customer data. This twofold approach ensures sensitive attributes are protected prior to churn analysis. Exactitude of this method is investigated by comparing performances of conventional privacy preserving models against the current model. Furthermore, churn detection is substantiated prior and post data preservation for detecting information loss. It was found that the privacy based feature selection method secured sensitive attributes effectively as compared to traditional approaches. Moreover, information loss estimated prior and post security concealment identified random forest classifier as superlative churn detection model with enhanced accuracy of 94.3% and minimal data forfeiture of 0.32%. Likewise, this approach can be adopted in several domains to shield vulnerable information prior to data modeling.
On the Dynamic Capacity of Concrete Dams
Authors: Furgani L. , Hariri-Ardebili M. A. , Meghella M. , Seyed-Kolbadi S. M.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this joint contribution is to study the maximum dynamic load concrete dams can withstand. The so-called “dynamic capacity functions” for these infrastructures seems now technically and commercially feasible thanks to the modern finite element techniques, hardware capabilities, and positive experiences collected so far. The key topics faced during the dynamic assessment of dams are also discussed using different point of view and examples, which include: the selection of dynamic parameters, the progressive level of detail for the numerical simulations, the implementation of nonlinear behaviors, and the concept of the service and collapse limit states. The approaches adopted by local institutions and engineers on the subject of dam capacity functions are discussed using the authors’ experiences, and an overview of time and resources is outlined to help decision makers. Three different concrete dam types (i.e., gravity, buttress, and arch) are used as case studies with different complexities. Finally, the paper is wrapped up with a list of suggestions for analysts, the procedure limitations, and future research needs.
Multi-Focus Image Fusion and Depth Map Estimation Based on Iterative Region Splitting Techniques
Authors: Lie Wen-Nung , Ho Chia-Che
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a multi-focus image stack captured by varying positions of the imaging plane is processed to synthesize an all-in-focus (AIF) image and estimate its corresponding depth map. Compared with traditional methods (e.g., pixel- and block-based techniques), our focus-based measures are calculated based on irregularly shaped regions that have been refined or split in an iterative manner, to adapt to different image contents. An initial all-focus image is first computed, which is then segmented to get a region map. Spatial-focal property for each region is then analyzed to determine whether a region should be iteratively split into sub-regions. After iterative splitting, the final region map is used to perform regionally best focusing, based on the Winner-take-all (WTA) strategy, i.e., choosing the best focused pixels from image stack. The depth image can be easily converted from the resulting label image, where the label for each pixel represents the image index from which the pixel with the best focus is chosen. Regions whose focus profiles are not confident in getting a winner of the best focus will resort to spatial propagation from neighboring confident regions. Our experiments show that the adaptive region-splitting algorithm outperforms other state-of-the-art methods or commercial software in synthesis quality (in terms of a well-known Q metric), depth maps (in terms of subjective quality), and processing speed (with a gain of 17.81~40.43%).
There Are No Conformal Einstein Rescalings of Pseudo-Riemannian Einstein Spaces with n Complete Light-Like Geodesics
Authors: Mikeš Josef , Hinterleitner Irena , Guseva Nadezda
Published: September 2019

In the present paper, we study conformal mappings between a connected n-dimension pseudo-Riemannian Einstein manifolds. Let g be a pseudo-Riemannian Einstein metric of indefinite signature on a connected n-dimensional manifold M. Further assume that there is a point at which not all sectional curvatures are equal and through which in linearly independent directions pass n complete null (light-like) geodesics. If, for the function ψ the metric ψ − 2 g is also Einstein, then ψ is a constant, and conformal mapping is homothetic. Note that Kiosak and Matveev previously assumed that all light-lines were complete. If the Einstein manifold is closed, the completeness assumption can be omitted (the latter result is due to Mikeš and Kühnel).
Some Properties of Approximate Solutions of Linear Differential Equations
Authors: Choi Ginkyu , Jung Soon-Mo , Roh Jaiok
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we will consider the Hyers-Ulam stability for the second order inhomogeneous linear differential equation, u ″ ( x ) + α u ′ ( x ) + β u ( x ) = r ( x ) , with constant coefficients. More precisely, we study the properties of the approximate solutions of the above differential equation in the class of twice continuously differentiable functions with suitable conditions and compare them with the solutions of the homogeneous differential equation u ″ ( x ) + α u ′ ( x ) + β u ( x ) = 0 . Several mathematicians have studied the approximate solutions of such differential equation and they obtained good results. In this paper, we use the classical integral method, via the Wronskian, to establish the stability of the second order inhomogeneous linear differential equation with constant coefficients and we will compare our result with previous ones. Specially, for any desired point c ∈ R we can have a good approximate solution near c with very small error estimation.
Some Estimates for Generalized Riemann-Liouville Fractional Integrals of Exponentially Convex Functions and Their Applications
Authors: Rashid Saima , Abdeljawad Thabet , Jarad Fahd , Noor Muhammad Aslam
Published: September 2019

In the present paper, we investigate some Hermite-Hadamard ( HH ) inequalities related to generalized Riemann-Liouville fractional integral ( GRLFI ) via exponentially convex functions. We also show the fundamental identity for GRLFI having the first order derivative of a given exponentially convex function. Monotonicity and exponentially convexity of functions are used with some traditional and forthright inequalities. In the application part, we give examples and new inequalities for the special means.
Solutions to Fredholm Integral Inclusions via Generalized Fuzzy Contractions
Authors: Al-Sulami Hamed H , Ahmad Jamshaid , Hussain Nawab , Latif Abdul
Published: September 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate the existence of solutions for the following Fredholm integral inclusion φ ( t ) ∈ f ( t ) + ∫ 0 1 K ( t , s , φ ( s ) ) ϱ s for t ∈ [ 0 , 1 ] , where f ∈ C [ 0 , 1 ] is a given real-valued function and K : [ 0 , 1 ] × [ 0 , 1 ] × R → K c v ( R ) a given multivalued operator, where K c v represents the family of non-empty compact and convex subsets of R , φ ∈ C [ 0 , 1 ] is the unknown function and ϱ is a metric defined on C [ 0 , 1 ] . To attain this target, we take advantage of fixed point theorems for α -fuzzy mappings satisfying a new class of contractive conditions in the context of complete metric spaces. We derive new fixed point results which extend and improve the well-known results of Banach, Kannan, Chatterjea, Reich, Hardy-Rogers, Berinde and Ćirić by means of this new class of contractions. We also give a significantly non-trivial example to support our new results.
Long-Term Relationship between Psychological Distress and Continuous Sedentary Behavior in Healthy Older Adults: A Three Panel Study
Authors: Owari Yutaka , Miyatake Nobuyuki
Published: September 2019

Background and objectives: Psychological distress (PD) is associated with continuous sedentary behaviors (CSB; based on the ratio of 1.5 metabolic equivalents (METs) sessions or more continuing for over 30 min) in older adults, but the long-term relation is not sufficiently clarified. This study aims to clarify the long-term relationship between PD and the rate of CSB. Materials and Methods: In this secondary analysis, a sample population of 72 healthy elderly people aged 65 years or older participated in a health club of college A from 2016 to 2018. We conducted structural equation modeling (SEM) using the cross-lagged and synchronous effects models. We adopted the following as proxy variables: CSB and PD (based on the Kessler 6 scale (K6) scores). Results: “2016 K6” to“2017 CSB” (standardization factor (β = 0.141, p = 0.025), “2017 K6” to “2018 CSB” (β = 0.187, p < 0.001) and “2016 CSB” to “2018 CSB” (β = 0.188, p < 0.001) were all statistically significant using the cross-lagged effects models. Fit indices were adjusted goodness of fit index (AGFI) = 0.961, comparative fit index (CFI) = 1.000, and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) = 0.000. Conclusion: The results suggest that PD may affect the ratio of CSB one year later, and CSB may affect the ratio of PD two year later.
Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of a Hot Rolled High-Strength Steel Produced by Ultra-Fast Cooling and Q&P Process
Authors: Wu Teng , Wu Run , Liu Bin , Liang Wen , Ke Deqing
Published: September 2019

The quenching and partitioning (Q&P) process of advanced high strength steels results in a significant enhancement in their strength and ductility. The development of controlled rolling and cooling technology provides an efficient tool for microstructural design in steels. This approach allows to control phase transformations in order to generate the desired microstructure in steel and, thus, to achieve the required properties. To refine grain structure in a Fe-Si-Mn-Nb steel and to generate the microstructure consisting of martensitic matrix with embedded retained austenite grains, hot rolling and pressing combined with ultrafast cooling and Q&P process is employed. The slender martensite in hot rolled Q&P steel improves the strength of test steel and the flake retained austenite improves the plasticity and work hardening ability through the Transformation Induced Plasticity (TRIP) effect.
Performance Analysis of a Microfluidic Pump Based on Combined Actuation of the Piezoelectric Effect and Liquid Crystal Backflow Effect
Authors: Guan Yanfang
Published: September 2019

A novel combined actuation method based on the piezoelectric effect and liquid crystal backflow effect is proposed in this paper. The coupling mechanism of a piezoelectric transducer (PZT) and liquid crystal (LC) in a combined driving mode is analyzed, and the governing equations of electromechanical coupling based on inverse piezoelectric effect and the classical Leslie–Ericksen backflow equation are modified under combined driving method. The new multifield coupling dynamic equations for numerical analysis is established. Experimentally, a sandwiched micropump was manufactured and sealed with wet etching technology on a glass wafer. A testing platform was built to analyze the particles motion and the flow rates were measured with both single PZT or LC actuation and combined actuation. Comparing the results of the numerical analysis and experimental testing of the flow rate and LC molecule motion under different driving voltages and frequencies, the performance of the PZT/LC combined driving is found to be superior to that of the single driving mode (PZT or LC driving) under the same driving conditions. Moreover, the new combined driving mode overcome the disadvantages of single driving mode and enhance the driving efficiency significantly. The simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data. The maximum flow rate of the micropump achieved was 4.494 μL/min with combined driving method.
The Effect of Flavonoid Aglycones on the CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C8 and CYP2D6 Enzymes Activity
Authors: Bojić Mirza , Kondža Martin , Rimac Hrvoje , Benković Goran , Maleš Željan
Published: September 2019

Cytochromes P450 are major metabolic enzymes involved in the biotransformation of xenobiotics. The majority of xenobiotics are metabolized in the liver, in which the highest levels of cytochromes P450 are expressed. Flavonoids are natural compounds to which humans are exposed through everyday diet. In the previous study, selected flavonoid aglycones showed inhibition of CYP3A4 enzyme. Thus, the objective of this study was to determine if these flavonoids inhibit metabolic activity of CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2C8, and CYP2D6 enzymes. For this purpose, the O-deethylation reaction of phenacetin was used for monitoring CYP1A2 enzyme activity, coumarin 7-hydroxylation for CYP2A6 enzyme activity, 6-α-hydroxylation of paclitaxel for CYP2C8 enzyme activity, and dextromethorphan O-demethylation for CYP2D6 enzyme activity. The generated metabolites were monitored by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection. Hesperetin, pinocembrin, chrysin, isorhamnetin, and morin inhibited CYP1A2 activity; apigenin, tangeretin, galangin, and isorhamnetin inhibited CYP2A6 activity; and chrysin, chrysin-dimethylether, and galangin inhibited CYP2C8. None of the analyzed flavonoids showed inhibition of CYP2D6. The flavonoids in this study were mainly reversible inhibitors of CYP1A2 and CYP2A6, while the inhibition of CYP2C8 was of mixed type (reversible and irreversible). The most prominent reversible inhibitor of CYP1A2 was chrysin, and this was confirmed by the docking study.
Customizable Ceramic Nanocomposites Using Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Okolo Chinyere , Rafique Rafaila , Iqbal Sadia Sagar , Subhani Tayyab , Saharudin Mohd Shahneel , Bhat Badekai Ramachandra , Inam Fawad
Published: September 2019

A novel tweakable nanocomposite was prepared by spark plasma sintering followed by systematic oxidation of carbon nanotube (CNT) molecules to produce alumina/carbon nanotube nanocomposites with surface porosities. The mechanical properties (flexural strength and fracture toughness), surface area, and electrical conductivities were characterized and compared. The nanocomposites were extensively analyzed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) for 2D qualitative surface morphological analysis. Adding CNTs in ceramic matrices and then systematically oxidizing them, without substantial reduction in densification, induces significant capability to achieve desirable/application oriented balance between mechanical, electrical, and catalytic properties of these ceramic nanocomposites. This novel strategy, upon further development, opens new level of opportunities for real-world/industrial applications of these relatively novel engineering materials.
A Convenient Synthesis of Pentaporphyrins and Supramolecular Complexes with a Fulleropyrrolidine
Authors: Costa Joana , Farinha Andreia , Paz Filipe , Tomé Augusto
Published: September 2019

A simple and straightforward synthesis of diporphyrins and pentaporphyrins is reported here. The supramolecular interactions of the new porphyrin derivatives with C60 and PyC60 (a pyridyl [60]fulleropyrrolidine) were evaluated by absorption and fluorescence titrations in toluene. While no measurable modifications of the absorption and fluorescence spectra were observed upon addition of C60 to the porphyrin derivatives, the addition of PyC60 to the corresponding mono-Zn(II) porphyrins resulted in the formation of Zn(porphyrin)–PyC60 coordination complexes and the binding constants were calculated. Results show that the four free-base porphyrin units in pentaporphyrin 6 have a significant contribution in the stabilization of the 6–PyC60 complex. The crystal and molecular features of the pentaporphyrin Zn5 were unveiled using single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies.
Carbon Nanotube-Quicklime Nanocomposites Prepared Using a Nickel Catalyst Supported on Calcium Oxide Derived from Carbonate Stones
Authors: Ibrahim Ruzanna , Hussein Mohd Zobir , Yusof Nor Azah , Abu Bakar Fatimah
Published: September 2019

Carbon nanotube-quicklime nanocomposites (CQNs) have been synthesized via the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of n-hexane using a nickel metal catalyst supported on calcined carbonate stones at temperatures of 600–900 °C. The use of a Ni/CaO(10 wt%) catalyst required temperatures of at least 700 °C to obtain XRD peaks attributable to carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The CQNs prepared using a Ni/CaO catalyst of various Ni contents showed varying diameters and the remaining catalyst metal particles could still be observed in the samples. Thermogravimetric analysis of the CQNs showed that there were two major weight losses due to the amorphous carbon decomposition (300–400 °C) and oxidation of CNTs (400–600 °C). Raman spectroscopy results showed that the CQNs with the highest graphitization were synthesized using Ni/CaO (10 wt%) at 800 °C with an IG/ID ratio of 1.30. The cyclic voltammetry (CV) of screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) modified with the CQNs showed that the performance of nanocomposite-modified SPCEs were better than bare SPCEs. When compared to carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes or MWNT–COOH-modified SPCEs, the CQNs synthesized using Ni/CaO (10 wt%) at 800 °C gave higher CV peak currents and comparable electron transfer, making it a good alternative for screen-printed electrode modification.