bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beta hidroksi bütirik asit düzeyinin diğer metabolik test parametreleri üzerine etkisi
Authors: YILDIZ Ramazan , İDER Merve , OK Mahmut
Published: December 2018

Metabolik profil test, süt sığırlarının
metabolik durumlarını ortaya koymak ve metabolizma hastalıklarının erken
tanısına yardımcı olmak amacıyla yapılan bir testtir. Bu çalışmada, negatif
enerji dengesizliği olan sütçü sığırların metabolik profil test parametrelerindeki
değişimlerin ve bu parametreler arasındaki ilişkilerin ortaya konulması
amaçlandı. Çalışma, laktasyon döneminin ikinci haftasında olan 189 adet sığır
serum örneğinin metabolik profil test sonuçları retrospektif olarak
değerlendirilerek yapıldı. Kan beta hidroksi butirik asit (BHBA) seviyesi 1
mmol/L’nin üstünde olan hayvanlar Grup-1’e, 1 mmol/L'den düşük olan hayvanlar
ise Grup-2’ye dahil edildi. BHBA düzeyi keton ölçüm cihazı ile yapıldı. Glikoz,
kan üre azotu (BUN), magnezyum (Mg), aspartat aminotransferaz (AST), fosfor
(P), kolesterol, total protein, albümin, kalsiyum, gama glutamil transferaz
(GGT) analizleri
otoanalizör ile yapıldı. Grup-1'in glikoz (p<0,001) ve albümin
(p<0,01) düzeylerinin Grup-2'den anlamlı derecede düşük, GGT (p<0,001),
AST (p<0,05) ve kalsiyum (p<0,01) düzeylerinin ise Grup-2'den anlamlı
derecede yüksek olduğu tespit edildi. BHBA düzeyinin glikoz (p<0,01) ile
negatif, AST (p<0,01) ve GGT (p<0,01) ile pozitif korelasyon gösterdiği
belirlendi. Sonuç olarak BHBA değeri 1 mmol/L ve üzerine çıktığı durumlarda
karaciğer ile ilişkili hasarı gösteren enzimlerin de artmaya başladığı
gözlendi. Subklinik ketozis tespit edilen sürülerde negatif enerji dengesinin
ortadan kaldırılmasının yanında karaciğer destekleyici tedavilerin verilmesi ve
sürünün karaciğer yağlanma riski için kontrol edilmesinin de önemli olduğu
kanısına varıldı.
The Role of Financial Slack, Employee Creative Self-Efficacy and Learning Orientation in Innovation and Organizational Performance
Authors: Tran Khoa T. , Nguyen Phuong V. , Nguyen Linh M.
Published: December 2018

Organizational performance development and financial slack have drawn extensive attention in management research. Recent studies have indicated that financial slack has a positive effect on innovation outcomes and organizational performance. However, some other studies have proposed adverse effects. This paper aimed to explore the causal linkages between employee creative self-efficacy, learning orientation, financial slack, innovation outcomes and organizational performance. It also examined the influence of innovation performance and creative self-efficacy as mediating variables in the connection between learning orientation and organizational performance. By doing so, we used a structural equation modelling (SEM) method to test the model using data from 267 small medium enterprises (SMEs) in Vietnam. The findings illustrated that SMEs had not utilized financial slack to invest in innovation activities and improve firm performance. Furthermore, the results indicated that learning orientation had both direct and indirect impacts on innovation and firm performance. It is worth noting that employee creative self-efficacy had a positive effect on innovation performance. The findings also verified a statistically significant association between innovation and organizational performance. Finally, the results provided some managerial implications to stimulate employees to work creatively and improve innovation outcomes for sustainable development.
Soil Properties for Predicting Soil Mineral Nitrogen Dynamics Throughout a Wheat Growing Cycle in Calcareous Soils
Authors: Aranguren Marta , Aizpurua Ana , Castellón Ander , Besga Gerardo , Villar Nerea
Published: December 2018

A better understanding of the capacity of soils to supply nitrogen (N) to wheat can enhance fertilizer recommendations. The aim of this study was to assess the soil mineral N (Nmin) dynamics throughout the wheat growing season in crucial stages for the plant yield and grain protein content (GPC). To this aim, we evaluated the utility of different soil properties analyzed before sowing: (i) commonly used soil physicochemical properties, (ii) potentially mineralizable N or No (aerobic incubation), and (iii) different extraction methods for estimating No. A greenhouse experiment was established using samples from 16 field soils from northern Spain. Wheat N uptake and soil Nmin concentrations were determined at following growing stages (GS): sowing, GS30, GS37, GS60, harvest, post-harvest, and pre-sowing. Pearson’s correlation analysis of the soil properties, aerobic incubations and chemical extractions with the soil Nmin dynamics and N uptake, yield and GPC was performed. In addition, correlations were performed between Nmin and the N uptake, yield, and GPC. The dynamics of soil Nmin throughout the cropping season were variable, and thus, the crop N necessities were variable. The soil Nmin values in the early wheat growth stages were well correlated with the yield, and in the late stages, they were well correlated with GPC. N0 was correlated with the late N uptake and GPC. However, the chemical methods that avoid the long periods required for N0 determinations were not correlated with the N uptake in the late wheat growth stages or GPC. Conversely, clay was positively correlated with the late Nmin values and GPC. Chemical methods were unable to estimate the available soil N in the later stages of the growing cycle. Consequently, as incubation methods are too laborious for their widespread use, further research must be conducted.
A Novel Method for Constructing the S-Box Based on Spatiotemporal Chaotic Dynamics
Authors: Liu Liyan , Zhang Yingqian , Wang Xingyuan
Published: December 2018

A novel construction method for a random S-box by using the spatiotemporal nonlinear chaotic system is proposed. The chaotic sequences of the spatiotemporal chaotic system are applied to construct an initial S-box. Then, the permutation operation between independent chaotic sequences is performed to shuffle the elements of the S-box randomly. In comparisons with the former schemes, the results of the performance analysis indicate that the obtained S-box has a better output bit independence criterion and a stronger ability to resist linear password attacks. It also has a high dimensional feature due to the spatiotemporal chaotic dynamical behaviors. The proposed scheme holds superior cryptographic features.
Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) in Asphalt Binder: Homogeneous Dispersion and Performance Enhancement
Authors: Haq Muhammad Faizan ul , Ahmad Naveed , Nasir Muhammad Ali , Jamal  , Hafeez Murryam , Rafi Javaria , Zaidi Syed Bilal Ahmed , Haroon Waqas
Published: December 2018

Conventional binders cannot meet the current performance requirements of asphaltic pavements due to increase in traffic volumes and loads. Nanomaterials, due to their exceptional mechanical properties, are gaining popularity as bitumen modifiers to enhance the performance properties of the asphaltic concrete. Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) are one of the most widely used nanomaterials because of their strength properties, light weight, small size, and large surface area. CNT addition results in improved substrate characteristics as compared to other modifiers. Due to high length to diameter ratio, dispersion of CNTs in bitumen is a complex phenomenon. In this study, dispersion of CNTs in bitumen was carried out using both dry and wet mixing techniques, the latter was selected on the basis of homogeneity of the resultant asphalt mixture. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to check the dispersion of CNTs in binder while Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was carried out to ensure the removal of solvent used for wet mixing. Conventional bitumen tests (penetration, softening point, and ductility), dynamic shear rheometer tests, rolling bottle tests, and bitumen bond strength tests were employed to check the improvement in the rheological and adhesion properties of bitumen while wheel tracker test was used to check the improvement in resistance against permanent deformation of asphalt mixtures after addition of CNTs. Results show that CNTs improved the higher temperature performance and permanent deformation resistance in both binder and mixtures. Improvement in bitumen–aggregate adhesion properties and moisture resistance was also observed.
Wireless Power Transfer via Subterahertz-Wave
Authors: Mizojiri Sei , Shimamura Kohei
Published: December 2018

Research on wireless power transmission by a rectenna using millimeter waves and subterahertz waves is gaining attention. It is expected that energy harvesters at high frequencies will be developed for use with future 5 G. High-power wireless power supply to various applications will be possible because of miniaturization of the rectenna. As described herein, we investigate earlier studies of millimeter-wave wireless power supply, selecting and explaining salient examples of millimeter-wave high power wireless power supply.
Gold Nanotriangles as Selective Catalysts for Cyclohexanol and Cyclohexanone Production
Authors: Matias Inês A. S. , Ribeiro A. P. C. , Oliveira-Silva Rui P. , Prazeres Duarte M. F. , Martins Luísa M. D. R. S.
Published: December 2018

The search for sustainable catalytic oxidation processes remains a challenge. One process of utmost industrial and economic importance is the selective oxidation of cyclohexane, in the route of nylon-6,6 production, which requires urgent improvement. Herein, Au nanotriangles (Au NTs) were prepared following a three-step (seed preparation, growth and shaping) procedure and applied, for the first time, as catalysts for the selective oxidation of neat cyclohexane to ketone and alcohol (KA) oil (cyclohexanol and cyclohexanone mixture). The Au NTs successfully yield KA oil (up to 14%) under mild conditions (50 °C), using an alternative energy source (microwave irradiation) as reaction promotor.
Application of Auxiliary Classifier Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Networks in Wireless Signal Classification of Illegal Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Zhao Caidan , Chen Caiyun , He Zeping , Wu Zhiqiang
Published: December 2018

Recently, many studies have reported on image synthesis based on Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN). However, the use of GAN does not provide much attention on the signal classification problem. In the context of using wireless signals to classify illegal Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), this paper explores the feasibility of using GAN to improve the training datasets and obtain a better classification model, thereby improving the accuracy of classification. First, we use the generative model of GAN to generate a large datasets, which does not need manual annotation. At the same time, the discriminative model of GAN is improved to classify the types of signals based on the loss function of the discriminative model. Finally, this model can be used to the outdoor environment and obtain a real-time illegal UAVs signal classification system. Our experiments confirmed that the improvements on the Auxiliary Classifier Generative Adversarial Networks (AC-GANs) by limited datasets achieve excellent results. The recognition rate can reach more than 95% in the indoor environment, and this method is also applicable in the outdoor environment. Moreover, based on the theory of Wasserstein GANs (WGAN) and AC-GANs, a more robust Auxiliary Classifier Wasserstein GANs (AC-WGANs) model is obtained, which is suitable for multi-class UAVs. Through the combination of AC-WGANs and Universal Software Radio Peripheral (USRP) B210 software defined radio (SDR) platform, a real-time UAVs signal classification system is also implemented.
Combustion of Hydrogen Enriched Methane and Biogases Containing Hydrogen in a Controlled Auto-Ignition Engine
Authors: Mariani Antonio , Unich Andrea , Minale Mario
Published: December 2018

The paper describes a numerical study of the combustion of hydrogen enriched methane and biogases containing hydrogen in a Controlled Auto Ignition engine (CAI). A single cylinder CAI engine is modelled with Chemkin to predict engine performance, comparing the fuels in terms of indicated mean effective pressure, engine efficiency, and pollutant emissions. The effects of hydrogen and carbon dioxide on the combustion process are evaluated using the GRI-Mech 3.0 detailed radical chain reactions mechanism. A parametric study, performed by varying the temperature at the start of compression and the equivalence ratio, allows evaluating the temperature requirements for all fuels; moreover, the effect of hydrogen enrichment on the auto-ignition process is investigated. The results show that, at constant initial temperature, hydrogen promotes the ignition, which then occurs earlier, as a consequence of higher chemical reactivity. At a fixed indicated mean effective pressure, hydrogen presence shifts the operating range towards lower initial gas temperature and lower equivalence ratio and reduces NOx emissions. Such reduction, somewhat counter-intuitive if compared with similar studies on spark-ignition engines, is the result of operating the engine at lower initial gas temperatures.
Differences among Unique Nanoparticle Protein Corona Constructs: A Case Study Using Data Analytics and Multi-Variant Visualization to Describe Physicochemical Characteristics
Authors: Stewart Madison , Mulenos Marina R. , Steele London R. , Sayes Christie M.
Published: December 2018

Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) used in pharmaceutical treatments have been shown to effectively deliver a payload, such as an active pharmaceutical ingredient or image contrast agent, to targeted tissues in need of therapy or diagnostics while minimizing exposure, availability, and accumulation to surrounding biological compartments. Data sets collected in this field of study include some toxico- and pharmacodynamic properties (e.g., distribution and metabolism) but many studies lack information about adsorption of biological molecules or absorption into cells. When nanoparticles are suspended in blood serum, a protein corona cloud forms around its surface. The extent of the applications and implications of this formed cloud are unknown. Some researchers have speculated that the successful use of nanoparticles in pharmaceutical treatments relies on a comprehensive understanding of the protein corona composition. The work presented in this paper uses a suite of data analytics and multi-variant visualization techniques to elucidate particle-to-protein interactions at the molecular level. Through mass spectrometry analyses, corona proteins were identified through large and complex datasets. With such high-output analyses, complex datasets pose a challenge when visualizing and communicating nanoparticle-protein interactions. Thus, the creation of a streamlined visualization method is necessary. A series of user-friendly data informatics techniques were used to demonstrate the data flow of protein corona characteristics. Multi-variant heat maps, pie charts, tables, and three-dimensional regression analyses were used to improve results interpretation, facilitate an iterative data transfer process, and emphasize features of the nanoparticle-protein corona system that might be controllable. Data informatics successfully highlights the differences between protein corona compositions and how they relate to nanoparticle surface charge.
A Review of Ice Cloud Optical Property Models for Passive Satellite Remote Sensing
Authors: Yang Ping , Hioki Souichiro , Saito Masanori , Kuo Chia-Pang , Baum Bryan A. , Liou Kuo-Nan
Published: December 2018

The current wealth of spaceborne passive and active measurements from ultraviolet to the infrared wavelengths provides an unprecedented opportunity to construct ice cloud bulk optical property models that lead to consistent ice cloud property retrievals across multiple sensors and platforms. To infer the microphysical and radiative properties of ice clouds from these satellite measurements, the general approach is to assume an ice cloud optical property model that implicitly assumes the habit (shape) and size distributions of the ice particles in these clouds. The assumption is that this ice optical property model will be adequate for global retrievals. In this review paper, we first summarize the key optical properties of individual particles and then the bulk radiative properties of their ensemble, followed by a review of the ice cloud models developed for application to satellite remote sensing. We illustrate that the random orientation condition assumed for ice particles is arguably justified for passive remote sensing applications based on radiometric measurements. The focus of the present discussion is on the ice models used by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) and the Clouds and Earth’s Radiant Energy System (CERES) science teams. In addition, we briefly review the ice cloud models adopted by the Polarization and Directionality of the Earth’s Reflectance (POLDER) and the Himawari-8 Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI) for ice cloud retrievals. We find that both the MODIS Collection 6 ice model and the CERES two-habit model result in spectrally consistent retrievals.
Monetary Value of a District’s Flexibility on the Spot- and Reserve Electricity Markets
Authors: Facchinetti Emanuele , Rohrbach Beni , Van der Wel Gerko , Bollinger Andrew
Published: December 2018

In the future, advanced multi-energy systems are expected to handle an increasing share of fluctuating renewable energy generation through the management of multiple advanced energy conversion and storage technologies operating across different energy carriers. The market diffusion of such concepts of Local Energy Management—the management of energy supply, demand, and storage within a given geographical area—is expected to provoke a fundamental reorganization of the power generation sector. This work contributes to this topic by estimating the maximum potential economic value attained from using the flexibility of a district to take advantage of operating within multiple electricity markets at the same time. The study is based on the measured demand and production data of a newly built suburban residential district located in Central Switzerland. The actual configuration of the district and the resulting flexibility, as well as an extension with a battery storage system, is used to estimate the economic value of the flexibility. Then, an optimization algorithm manages flexible demand, production, and storage capacities in order to alternatively maximize the revenues/cost savings, self-sufficiency, or share of renewable resources of the district’s energy supply. In this vein, the impact of the way the system operates in the markets regarding the degradation of the battery is assessed and its pay-back-time is estimated. The analysis revealed a considerable profit potential associated with the district thermal and electricity storage flexibility, in particular, when operating on both the spot and reserve electricity markets. Firstly, it was shown that overall energy costs can be minimized through an optimal management of energy conversion and storage systems. Secondly, complementing the infrastructure with batteries and trading flexibility on the spot market would decrease costs by about 43%, while an additional 20% cost decrease could be captured by including trading on the reserve market. Thirdly, it has been shown that operation on the spot- and reserve market does not seem to degrade the battery more than solely operation on the spot market. However, when operating on the spot- and reserve markets, battery amortization would still take about 10 years.
NK Cell-Based Glioblastoma Immunotherapy
Authors: Golán Irene , Rodríguez de la Fuente Laura , Costoya Jose A.
Published: December 2018

Glioblastoma (GB) is the most aggressive and most common malignant primary brain tumor diagnosed in adults. GB shows a poor prognosis and, unfortunately, current therapies are unable to improve its clinical outcome, imposing the need for innovative therapeutic approaches. The main reason for the poor prognosis is the great cell heterogeneity of the tumor mass and its high capacity for invading healthy tissues. Moreover, the glioblastoma microenvironment is capable of suppressing the action of the immune system through several mechanisms such as recruitment of cell modulators. Development of new therapies that avoid this immune evasion could improve the response to the current treatments for this pathology. Natural Killer (NK) cells are cellular components of the immune system more difficult to deceive by tumor cells and with greater cytotoxic activity. Their use in immunotherapy gains strength because they are a less toxic alternative to existing therapy, but the current research focuses on mimicking the NK attack strategy. Here, we summarize the most recent studies regarding molecular mechanisms involved in the GB and immune cells interaction and highlight the relevance of NK cells in the new therapeutic challenges.
Obesity-Linked Cancers: Current Knowledge, Challenges and Limitations in Mechanistic Studies and Rodent Models
Authors: Xu Yang Xin Zi , Mishra Suresh
Published: December 2018

The worldwide prevalence of obesity has doubled during the last 50 years, and according to the World Obesity Federation, one third of the people on Earth will be obese by the year 2025. Obesity is described as a chronic, relapsing and multifactorial disease that causes metabolic, biomechanical, and psychosocial health consequences. Growing evidence suggests that obesity is a risk factor for multiple cancer types and rivals smoking as the leading preventable cause for cancer incidence and mortality. The epidemic of obesity will likely generate a new wave of obesity-related cancers with high aggressiveness and shortened latency. Observational studies have shown that from cancer risk to disease prognosis, an individual with obesity is consistently ranked worse compared to their lean counterpart. Mechanistic studies identified similar sets of abnormalities under obesity that may lead to cancer development, including ectopic fat storage, altered adipokine profiles, hormone fluctuations and meta-inflammation, but could not explain how these common mechanisms produce over 13 different cancer types. A major hurdle in the mechanistic underpinning of obesity-related cancer is the lack of suitable pre-clinical models that spontaneously develop obesity-linked cancers like humans. Current approaches and animal models fall short when discerning the confounders that often coexist in obesity. In this mini-review, we will briefly survey advances in the different obesity-linked cancers and discuss the challenges and limitations in the rodent models employed to study their relationship. We will also provide our perspectives on the future of obesity-linked cancer research.
Detoxification of Olive Mill Wastewaters by Fenton’s Process
Authors: Domingues Eva , Gomes João , Quina Margarida J. , Quinta-Ferreira Rosa M. , Martins Rui C.
Published: December 2018

Olive mill wastewaters (OMW) constitute an environmental problem affecting mainly Mediterranean Sea area countries where the olive mill industry is a very important economic sector. The strong impact and management issues of these effluents are mainly due to their seasonality, localized production, and high organic load with high toxic features and low biodegradability. As the olive oil industry is highly water demanding, the search for suitable water recovery strategies requires the development and optimization of advanced treatment technologies. The classical Fenton’s process is an interesting alternative, as it operates at room conditions of pressure and temperature. However, it shows some drawbacks, such as the generation of iron sludges, which require further management. Nevertheless, because of its features that make it industrially desirable, overcoming these limitations has been the focus of researchers in the last years. Bearing this in mind, this paper focuses on the recent research regarding OMW treatment using Fenton’s process. The use of Fenton’s peroxidation treatment at homogenous, heterogeneous, and photo-aided conditions is analysed. The use of solid catalysts may be an interesting way to avoid sludge formation. Light-driven Fenton can also reduce the amount of iron needed for effective degradation. Moreover, Fenton’s process integration in combined treatment schemes is discussed. Finally, remarks regarding its application at full scale are given.
Properties of Carbon-supported Precious Metals Catalysts under Reductive Treatment and Their Influence in the Hydrodechlorination of Dichloromethane
Authors: Arevalo-Bastante Alejandra , Martin-Martinez Maria , Álvarez-Montero M. Ariadna , Rodriguez Juan J. , Gómez-Sainero Luisa M.
Published: December 2018

This study analyzes the effect of the reduction temperature on the properties of Rh, Pt and Pd catalysts supported on activated carbon and their performance in the hydrodechlorination (HDC) of dichloromethane (DCM). The reduction temperature plays an important role in the oxidation state, size and dispersion of the metallic phase. Pd is more prone to sintering, followed by Pt, while Rh is more resistant. The ratio of zero-valent to electro-deficient metal increases with the reduction temperature, with that effect being more remarkable for Pd and Pt. The higher resistance to sintering of Rh and the higher stability of electro-deficient species under thermal reductive treatment can be attributed to a stronger interaction with surface oxygen functionalities. Dechlorination activity and a TOF increase with reduction temperature (250–450 °C) occurred in the case of Pt/C catalyst, while a great decrease of both was observed for Pd/C, and no significant effect was found for Rh/C. Pt0 represents the main active species for HDC reaction in Pt/C. Therefore, increasing the relative amount of these species increased the TOF value, compensating for the loss of dispersion. In contrast, Pdn+ appears as the main active species in Pd/C and their relatively decreasing occurrence together with the significant decrease of metallic area reduces the HDC activity. Rh/C catalyst suffered only small changes in dispersion and metal oxidation state with the reduction temperature and thus this variable barely affected its HDC activity.
Sanitization of Early Life and Microbial Dysbiosis
Authors: Jun Shelly , Drall Kelsea , Matenchuk Brittany , McLean Cara , Nielsen Charlene , Obiakor Chinwe V. , Van der Leek Aaron , Kozyrskyj Anita
Published: December 2018

Childbearing and infant care practices have dramatically evolved since the 15th century. Shifting away from traditional home-based experiences, with the emergence of the microbial aware era and the hospital as a quintessential sanitizing machine, early life has now long been characterized as a condition to be medically managed. Paradoxically, this ‘germ-free’ march towards a healthier early life environment has opened the door to greater microbial susceptibility and dysbiosis. Many studies have now established that infant exposure to excessive sanitation and hygiene regimens are associated with an increased risk for and onset of childhood immune system diseases. In this paper, we explore the ways in which biomedical-centered efforts to enhance early life have come at a cost to planetary health, in relation to infant microbial succession. We examine three major areas of early life that have been subject to the ‘ripple effect’ of hygiene and sanitation concerns—childbirth, home environment, and breastfeeding.
Acceptability and Feasibility of Single-Component Primary School Physical Activity Interventions to Inform the AS:Sk Project
Authors: Taylor Sarah L. , Noonan Robert J. , Knowles Zoe R. , McGrane Bronagh , Curry Whitney B. , Fairclough Stuart J.
Published: December 2018

Multi-component school-based interventions provide physical activity (PA) opportunities for children but are often difficult for schools to execute and may not be implemented as intended. The primary aim of this study was to explore the acceptability and feasibility of three brief single-component primary school PA interventions targeting 9–10-year-old children. The secondary aim was to examine the effectiveness of the interventions on increasing PA levels and reducing sedentary time. The single-component interventions included active classroom breaks (AB; 3 schools; n = 119 children) Born to Move (BTM) exercise videos (2 schools; n = 50 children), and playground supervisory staff training (2 schools; n = 56 children). Qualitative data from participating children (n = 211), class teachers (n = 6), and playground supervisory staff (n = 8) explored the experiences, acceptability, and feasibility of each intervention component. Accelerometers were worn by 225 children during the last week of implementation. Teachers reported that they were able to implement ABs daily, but BTM videos were more difficult to implement daily because of accessing sufficient space. Playground staff reported difficulties in implementing activities due to children’s age and competing responsibilities on the staffs’ time. Children reported that the ABs and BTM videos were enjoyable. During half hour time windows, including the ABs and BTM videos, children engaged in 4.8 min and 8.6 min of moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) on average, respectively. ABs and BTM videos positively affected MVPA. ABs were feasible to implement; however, teachers faced some barriers in implementing the BTM videos. Feasibility of playground interventions may be dependent on staff responsibilities and age of the children.
Spectroscopic and Structural Analyses of Opuntia Robusta Mucilage and Its Potential as an Edible Coating
Authors: Bernardino-Nicanor Aurea , Montañez-Soto José Luis , Conde-Barajas Eloy , Negrete-Rodríguez María de la Luz Xochilt , Teniente-Martínez Gerardo , Vargas-León Enaim Aída , Juárez-Goiz José Mayolo Simitrio , Acosta-García Gerardo , González-Cruz Leopoldo
Published: December 2018

Mucilage extracted from the parenchymatous and chlorenchymatous tissues of Opuntia robusta were obtained using water or ethanol as the extraction solvent. The changes in the different tissues by using different extraction solvents were evaluated via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopy; in addition, the effect of mucilage coating on the various quality characteristics of tomato (Lycopersicum sculentum) was evaluated. The SEM results showed that the mucilage extracted from the parenchyma had a higher aggregation level that the mucilage extracted from the chlorenchyma. The presence of three characteristic bands of pectic substances in the FT-IR spectra between 1050 and 1120 cm−1 indicated that the mucilage extracted from the parenchymatous tissue had a higher content of pectic compounds than the mucilage extracted from the chlorenchymatous tissue. It was also observed in the Raman spectra that the level of pectic substances in the mucilage extracted from the parenchymatous was higher than that in the mucilage extracted from the chlorenchymatous tissue. The mucilage extracted from the parenchymatous tissue was more effective as an edible coating than the mucilage extracted from the chlorenchymatous tissue. Tomatoes covered with mucilage showed significantly enhanced firmness and reduced weight loss. The uncoated tomatoes showed higher lycopene content than the coated tomatoes on the 21st day. This study showed that the Opuntia robusta tissue and extraction solvent influence mucilage characteristics and that Opuntia robusta mucilage is a promising edible coating.
Square Column Structure of High Efficiency, Reliable, Uniformly Flexible LED Devices
Authors: Lin Chih-Hao , Pai Yung-Min , Kang Chieh-Yu , Lin Huang-Yu , Lee Chun-Fu , Chen Xin-Yin , Tu Hsien-Hao , Yang Jin-Jia , Chen Cheng-Huan , Lin Chien-Chung , Lee Po-Tsung , Sher Chin-Wei , Kuo Hao-Chung
Published: December 2018

This study demonstrates that flexible white LEDs, doped with diffusion particles and with a square column structure, have excellent luminosity, uniformity, and bending reliability. This large area (5 cm × 5 cm) square column flexible device had a smaller thickness (2 mm), and enhancements in both luminous efficiency (29.5%) and uniformity (44.6%) compared to the characteristics of the 6 mm reference sample. Optimization of the reflective layer coating for the square column, flexible white LED was achieved with a higher luminous efficiency (171 lm/w) and uniformity (92%). We designed a novel lightning bolt electrode to improve reliability and bendability. After the bending test, the blue flexible LED had a lower bending diameter (10 mm) but more bending circles (increased to 2000 times.
Data for an Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) of a Public Green Infrastructure and Urban Nature Space in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Simpson Greg D. , Parker Jackie
Published: December 2018

This Data Descriptor shares the dataset generated by a visitor satisfaction survey of users of a mixed-use public green infrastructure (PGI) space in Perth, Western Australia, that incorporates remnant and reintroduced urban nature (UN). Conducted in the Austral summer of 2016–2017, the survey (n = 393) utilized the technique of Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) to elucidate perceptions of PGI users regarding performance of the amenity and facilities at the study site. There is a growing body of research that reports the innate, inbuilt affinity of humans to natural systems and living things. As humankind has grown exponentially over the past 50 years, humanity, as a species, is living an increasingly urbanized lifestyle, resulting in spreading urban footprints and increased population densities that are causing humans to become increasingly disconnected from nature. These conflicting phenomena are driving research to understand the contribution that PGI and UN can make to enhancing the quality of life of urban residents. With diminishing opportunities to acquire or create new PGI spaces within ever-more-densely populated urban centers, understanding, efficiently managing, and continuously improving existing PGI spaces is crucial to access the benefits and services that PGI and UN provide. The IPA technique can provide the data necessary to inform an evidenced-based approach to managing and resourcing PGI and UN spaces.
Open Innovation Session as a Tool Supporting Innovativeness in Strategies for High-Tech Companies in the Czech Republic
Authors: Matulova Pavla , Maresova Petra , Tareq Mohammad Ali , Kuča Kamil
Published: December 2018

Open innovation has developed over several decades from a small pool of innovation pioneers, mostly active in high-tech industries, to be widely discussed and implemented in innovation strategy. The primary objective of the Open Innovation Session (OIS) is to create a platform where firms are able to facilitate knowledge transfer. This paper focuses on the contribution of OIS, implemented by regional government, in formulating companies’ strategic management and to overcome barriers to innovation for high-tech companies in the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic. The methodology adopted for this paper includes monitoring and analysing the activities of this programme over seven years, followed by a quantitative study using both primary and secondary data. The primary data for the research were gathered through questionnaires, where the respondents were general managers of companies that had at least some experience of an innovation process. Secondary data were taken from the Czech Statistical Office. This paper has found that the association between an aspiration for innovation leadership and expenditure for research and development is high, further that participation in OIS led to a shift in the perception of the objectives, needs and conditions of the business and finally the major barriers to the innovation process are a lack of highly motivated people with the necessary technical and business experience.
Using the Visible Learning Research to Influence Collaborative Leadership
Authors: DeWitt Peter
Published: December 2018

John Hattie’s Visible Learning research has been read, dissected, and implemented by educators and leaders around the world. Whether it’s the effect sizes or the influences that challenge the thinking of the status quo, the Visible Learning research has taken a place in many educational conversations. Over the last three years, the author of this paper has been researching and implementing the Visible Learning research, and used some of the findings to create a leadership workshop that focused on six of the influences that Hattie has been studying for years. The point of using the six influences he focused on was that based on the author’s knowledge of leadership through his experience as a teacher and building leader, as well as his understanding and research around school climate, there were six areas that all leaders should understand deeply if they are to have a positive impact on student learning.
Using a Current Controlled Light-Dependent Resistor to Bridge the Control of DC/DC Power Converter
Authors: Shiau Jaw-Kuen , Chiu Hsien-Yu , Sun Jin-Wei
Published: December 2018

This paper presents the design of a microcontroller controlled buck-boost DC-to-DC power converter system. The system contains two major subsystems, a Zeta type buck-boost power converter and a control unit and it contains two control loops. The inner-loop is a voltage regulator based on a Zeta type buck-boost converter. The outer-loop is for voltage and current regulation. The voltage/current regulation is achieved by controlling a light dependent resistor from the control unit. Computer simulations based on a MATLAB/SIMULINK model were successfully conducted to verify the design. In addition, a prototype system was built and successfully tested for a Li-ion battery charging application.
Experimental Investigation on Hydraulic Fracture Propagation of Carbonate Rocks under Different Fracturing Fluids
Authors: Guo Yintong , Deng Peng , Yang Chunhe , Chang Xin , Wang Lei , Zhou Jun
Published: December 2018

Deep carbonate reservoirs are rich in oil and gas resources. However, due to poor pore connectivity and low permeability, it is necessary to adopt hydraulic fracturing technology for their development. The mechanism of hydraulic fracturing for fracture initiation and propagation in carbonate rocks remains unclear, especially with regard to selection of the type of fracturing fluid and the fracturing parameters. In this article, an experimental study focusing on the mechanisms of hydraulic fracturing fracture initiation and propagation is discussed. Several factors were studied, including the type of injecting fracturing fluids, pump flow rate, fracturing pressure curve characteristics, and fracture morphology. The results showed the following: (1) The viscosity of fracturing fluid had a significant effect on fracturing breakdown pressure. Under the same pump flow rate, the fracturing breakdown pressure of slick water was the lowest. Fracturing fluids with low viscosity could easily activate weakly natural fractures or filled fractures, leading to open microcracks, and could effectively reduce the fracturing breakdown pressure. (2) The fluctuations in fracturing pump pressure corresponded with the acoustic emission hits and changes in radial strain; for every drop of fracturing pressure, acoustic emission hits and changes in radial strain were mutated. (3) Under the same fracturing fluid, the pump flow rate mainly affected fracturing breakdown pressure and had little effect on fracture morphology. (4) The width of the main fracture was affected by the viscosity and pump flow rate. Maximum changes in radial strain at the fracturing breakdown pressure point occurred when the fracturing fluid was guar gum. (5) With gelled acid and cross-linked acid fracturing, the main fractures were observed on the surface. The extension of the fracturing crack was mainly focused near the crack initiation parts. The crack expanded asymmetrically; the wormhole was dissolved to break through to the surface of the specimen. (6) The dissolution of gelled acid solution could increase the width of the fracturing crack and improve the conductivity of carbonate reservoirs.
On a Roadmap for Future Industrial Nuclear Reactor Core Simulation in the U.K. to Support the Nuclear Renaissance
Authors: Merk Bruno , Bankhead Mark , Litskevich Dzianis , Gregg Robert , Peakman Aiden , Shearer Craig
Published: December 2018

The U.K. has initiated the nuclear renaissance by contracting for the first two new plants and announcing further new build projects. The U.K. government has recently started to support this development with the announcement of a national programme of nuclear innovation. The aim of this programme with respect to modelling and simulation is foreseen to fulfil the demand in education and the build-up of a reasonably qualified workforce, as well as the development and application of a new state-of-the-art software environment for improved economics and safety. This document supports the ambition to define a new approach to the structured development of nuclear reactor core simulation that is based on oversight instead of looking at detail problems and the development of single tools for these specific detail problems. It is based on studying the industrial demand to bridge the gap in technical innovation that can be derived from basic research in order to create a tailored industry solution to set the new standard for reactor core modelling and simulation for the U.K. However, finally, a technical requirements specification has to be developed alongside the strategic approach to give code developers a functional specification that they can use to develop the tools for the future. Key points for a culture change to the application of modern technologies are identified in the use of DevOps in a double-strata approach to academic and industrial code development. The document provides a novel, strategic approach to achieve the most promising final product for industry, and to identify the most important points for improvement.
Luminescent Electrochromic Devices for Smart Windows of Energy-Efficient Buildings
Authors: Fernandes Mariana , Freitas Vânia , Pereira Sónia , Leones Rita , Silva Maria Manuela , Carlos Luís D. , Fortunato Elvira , A. S. Ferreira Rute , Rego Rosa , De Zea Bermudez Verónica
Published: December 2018

To address the challenges of the next generation of smart windows for energy-efficient buildings, new electrochromic devices (ECDs) are introduced. These include indium molybdenum oxide (IMO), a conducting oxide transparent in the near-infrared (NIR) region, and a NIR-emitting electrolyte. The novel electrolytes are based on a sol-gel-derived di-urethane cross-linked siloxane-based host structure, including short chains of poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL(530) (where 530 represents the average molecular weight in g mol−1). This hybrid framework was doped with a combination of either, lithium triflate (LiTrif) and erbium triflate (ErTrif3), or LiTrif and bisaquatris (thenoyltrifluoroacetonate) erbium (III) ([Er(tta)3(H2O)2]). The ECD@LiTrif-[Er(tta)3(H2O)2] device presents a typical Er3+ NIR emission around 1550 nm. The figures of merit of these devices are high cycling stability, good reversibility, and unusually high coloration efficiency (CE = ΔOD/ΔQ, where Q is the inserted/de-inserted charge density). CE values of −8824/+6569 cm2 C−1 and −8243/+5200 cm2 C−1 were achieved at 555 nm on the 400th cycle, for ECD@LiTrif-ErTrif3 and ECD@LiTrif-[Er(tta)3(H2O)2], respectively.
Smart Meter Forecasting from One Minute to One Year Horizons
Authors: Massidda Luca , Marrocu Marino
Published: December 2018

The ability to predict consumption is an essential tool for the management of a power distribution network. The availability of an advanced metering infrastructure through smart meters makes it possible to produce consumption forecasts down to the level of the individual user and to introduce intelligence and control at every level of the grid. While aggregate load forecasting is a mature technology, single user forecasting is a more difficult problem to address due to the multiple factors affecting consumption, which are not always easily predictable. This work presents a hybrid machine learning methodology based on random forest (RF) and linear regression (LR) for the deterministic and probabilistic forecast of household consumption at different time horizons and resolutions. The approach is based on the separation of long term effects (RF) from short term ones (LR), producing deterministic and probabilistic forecasts. The proposed procedure is applied to a public dataset, achieving a deterministic forecast accuracy much higher than other methodologies, in all scenarios analyzed. This covers horizons of forecast from one minute to one year, and highlights the great added value provided by probabilistic forecasting.
Wind Power Monitoring and Control Based on Synchrophasor Measurement Data Mining
Authors: Klarić Mario , Kuzle Igor , Holjevac Ninoslav
Published: December 2018

More and more countries and utilities are trying to develop smart grid projects to make transformation of their power infrastructure towards future grids with increased share of renewable energy production and near zero emissions. The intermittent nature of solar and wind power can in general cause large problems for power system control. Parallel to this process, the aging of existing infrastructure also imposes requirements to utility budgets in the form of a need for large capital investments in reconstruction or maintenance of key equipment. Synchrophasor and other synchronized measurement technologies are setting themselves as one of the solutions for larger wind power integration. With that aim, in this paper one possible solution for wind power control through data mining algorithms used on a large quantity of data gathered from phasor measurement units (PMU) is described. Developed model and algorithm are tested on an IEEE 14 bus test system as well as on real measurements made on wind power plants currently in operation. One such wind power plant is connected to the distribution grid and the other one to the transmission grid. Results are analyzed and compared.
Computational Fluid Dynamic Modelling and Optimisation of Wastewater Treatment Plant Bioreactor Mixer
Authors: Elshaw Andrew , Hassan Nur M. S. , Khan M. Masud K.
Published: December 2018

This study aims to determine the optimal configuration (position and operation duration) for wall mounted mechanical mixers based on the comparison of three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling results and physical data collected from the treatment plant. A three dimensional model of anoxic zone in 1, 2 and 3 of Northern Wastewater Treatment Plant (NWWTP) located at Cairns Regional Council, Cairns, Queensland, Australia was developed and validated. The model was used to simulate the flow pattern of the WWTP and the simulation results are in good agreement with the physical data varying between 0% to 15% in key locations. The anoxic zones were subject to velocities less than the desired 0.3 m per second however results for mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentration indicate that good mixing is being achieved. Results for suspended solids concentrations suggest that the anoxic zones are towards the upper limits recommended by literature for specific power dissipation. The duration for operation of mechanical mixers was investigated and identified that the duration could be reduced from 900 s down to 150 s. Alternative mixer positioning was also investigated and identified positioning which would increase the average flow velocity with decreased duration (150 s). The study identified that Council may achieve savings of $28,500 per year through optimisation of the mechanical mixers and would be expected to extend the operational life of the mixers.