bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluid Inclusions and S–Pb Isotopes of the Reshui Porphyry Mo Deposit in East Kunlun, Qinghai Province, China
Authors: Guo Xianzheng , Lü Xinbiao , Jia Qunzi , Li Jinchao , Kong Huilei
Published: September 2019

The Reshui porphyry Mo deposit is located in the East Kunlun orogenic belt (EKOB). Molybdenum mineralization is distributed in monzogranite and porphyritic monzogranite rocks, mainly presenting as various types of hydrothermal veinlets in altered wall rocks, and the orebodies are controlled by three groups of fractures. In this paper, we present the results of fluid-inclusion and isotopic (S and Pb) investigations of the Reshui Mo deposit. The ore-forming process of the deposit can be divided into three stages: an early disseminated molybdenite stage (stage 1), a middle quartz–molybdenite stage (stage 2) and a late quartz–polymetallic sulfide stage (stage 3). The alteration was mainly potassic and silicic in stage 1, silicic in stage 2, and sericitic and silicic in stage 3. Five types of fluid inclusions (FIs) can be distinguished in quartz phenocrysts and quartz veins, namely W, PL (pure liquid inclusions), PV (pure gas inclusions), C (CO2 three-phase inclusions), and S (daughter mineral-bearing inclusions). The homogenization temperatures of fluid inclusions belonging to stages 1 to 3 are 282.3–378 °C, 238.7–312.6 °C and 198.3–228 °C, respectively. The fluid salinities at stages 1 to 3 are 4.65–8.14% NaCl eq., 4.34–42.64% NaCl eq., and 3.55–4.65% NaCl eq., respectively. The fluids of this deposit were generally moderate–high temperature and moderate–low salinity and belong to the H2O–NaCl–CO2 ± CH4 system. The temperature and pressure changed considerably between stage 2 (high–medium-temperature) and stage 3 (low-temperature). The evidence for ore-forming fluids containing different types of coexisting inclusions in stage 2 and a decrease in the fluid temperature from stage 2 to stage 3 indicate that fluid boiling and fluid mixing were the main mechanisms of ore precipitation. The sulfide 34SV-CDT values range from 4.90‰ to 5.80‰, which is characteristic of magmatic sulfur. The 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, and 208Pb/204Pb values of the ore minerals are 18.210–18.786, 15.589–15.723, and 38.298–39.126, respectively. These lead isotopic compositions suggest that the ores were mainly sourced from crustally derived magmas, with minor input from the mantle. The fluid inclusions and S–Pb isotopes provide important information on the genesis of the Reshui porphyry Mo deposit and indicate that the Triassic has high metallogenic porphyry potential in the EKOB.
Chemical and Biocatalytic Routes to Arbutin †
Authors: Zhou Hangyu , Zhao Jing , Li Aitao , Reetz Manfred T.
Published: September 2019

Arbutin (also called β-arbutin) is a natural product occurring in the leaves of a variety of different plants, the bearberries of the Ericaceae and Saxifragaceae families being prominent examples. It is a β-glucoside derived from hydroquinone (HQ; 1,4-dihydroxybenzene). Arbutin has been identified in traditional Chinese folk medicines as having, inter alia, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that useful in the treatment of different ailments including urinary diseases. Today, it is also used worldwide for the treatment of skin ailments by way of depigmenting, which means that arbutin is a component of many products in the cosmetics and healthcare industries. It is also relevant in the food industry. Hundreds of publications have appeared describing the isolation, structure determination, toxicology, synthesis, and biological properties of arbutin as well as the molecular mechanism of melanogenesis (tyrosinase inhibition). This review covers the most important aspects with special emphasis on the chemical and biocatalytic methods for the production of arbutin.
Characterization of the Key Aroma Compounds in Three Truffle Varieties from China by Flavoromics Approach
Authors: Feng Tao , Shui Mengzhu , Song Shiqing , Zhuang Haining , Sun Min , Yao Lingyun
Published: September 2019

The volatile compounds of three different fresh-picked truffle varieties (Tuber sinensis, T1, Tuber sinoalbidum, T2 and Tuber sinoexcavatum, T3) were extracted by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME). Separation and identification of volatile components and sulfur compounds were investigated by gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and gas chromatography with flame photometric detection (GC-FPD). The results showed that 44, 43 and 44 volatile compounds were detected in T1, T2 and T3 samples, respectively. In addition, 9, 10 and 9 sulfur compounds were identified in three samples by GC-FPD, respectively. Combining physicochemical and sensory properties, T1 presented fatty, green and rotten cabbage odor; T2 exhibited mushroom, sulfuric and musty odor notes; T3 had nutty, floral and roasted potato odor. Dimethyl sulfide, 3-methylbutanal, dimethyl disulfide, 3-octanone, bis(methylthio) methane, octanal, 1-octen-3-one, 1-octen-3-ol and benzeneacetaldehyde played indispensable roles in the overall aroma of three truffles. Finally, based on quantitative concentration in T1, odorous compounds (OAV) > 1 were mixed to recombine aroma, demonstrating that these key aroma compounds based on OAV can successfully recombine pretty similar aroma of each variety.
Assessment of By-Product from Botryosphaeria rhodina MAMB-05 as an Effective Biosorbent of Pb(II)
Authors: Muñoz Antonio J. , Espínola Francisco , Ruiz Encarnación , Barbosa-Dekker Aneli M. , Dekker Robert F. H. , Castro Eulogio
Published: September 2019

In this work, two types of biomass preparations (VMSM and M3) from the filamentous fungus Botryosphaeria rhodina MAMB-05, which were previously used in a process of production of β-glucan, were assessed as biosorbents of lead. The operating conditions, optimized through response surface methodology and experimental design, were shown to be pH 5.29 and a biosorbent dose of 0.23 g/L for the VMSM biomass type; and pH 5.06 and a dose of biosorbent of 0.60 g/L for the M3 biomass type, at a constant temperature of 27 °C. Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy analyzed the presence of functional groups on the biomass surface. In addition to give an extra value to the by-product biomass, the VMSM-type from B. rhodina MAMB-05 showed an excellent lead biosorption capacity (qm) with a value of 403.4 mg/g for the Langmuir model, comparing favorably with literature results, while the M3 subtype biomass showed a value of 96.05 mg/g.
Siderophore–Antibiotic Conjugate Design: New Drugs for Bad Bugs?
Authors: Negash Kokob H. , Norris James K.S. , Hodgkinson James T.
Published: September 2019

Antibiotic resistance is a global health concern and a current threat to modern medicine and society. New strategies for antibiotic drug design and delivery offer a glimmer of hope in a currently limited pipeline of new antibiotics. One strategy involves conjugating iron-chelating microbial siderophores to an antibiotic or antimicrobial agent to enhance uptake and antibacterial potency. Cefiderocol (S-649266) is a promising cephalosporin–catechol conjugate currently in phase III clinical trials that utilizes iron-mediated active transport and demonstrates enhanced potency against multi-drug resistant (MDR) Gram-negative pathogens. Such molecules demonstrate that siderophore–antibiotic conjugates could be important future medicines to add to our antibiotic arsenal. This review is written in the context of the chemical design of siderophore–antibiotic conjugates focusing on the differing siderophore, linker, and antibiotic components that make up conjugates. We selected chemically distinct siderophore–antibiotic conjugates as exemplary conjugates, rather than multiple analogues, to highlight findings to date. The review should offer a general guide to the uninitiated in the molecular design of siderophore–antibiotic conjugates.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Activity of Magnesium-Doped Hydroxyapatite Suspensions
Authors: Predoi Daniela , Iconaru Simona Liliana , Predoi Mihai Valentin , Stan George E. , Buton Nicolas
Published: September 2019

Obtaining nanoscale materials has allowed for the miniaturization of components, which has led to the possibility of achieving more efficient devices with faster functions and much lower costs. While hydroxyapatite [HAp, Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] is considered the most widely used material for medical applications in orthopedics, dentistry, and general surgery, the magnesium (Mg) is viewed as a promising biodegradable and biocompatible implant material. Furthermore, Mg is regarded as a strong candidate for developing medical implants due to its biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. For this study, magnesium-doped hydroxyapatite (Ca10−xMgx (PO4)6 (OH)2, xMg = 0.1), 10MgHAp, suspensions were successfully obtained by an adapted and simple chemical co-precipitation method. The information regarding the stability of the nanosized 10MgHAp particles suspension obtained by ζ-potential analysis were confirmed for the first time by a non-destructive ultrasound-based technique. Structural and morphological studies of synthesized 10MgHAp were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy in attenuated total reflectance (ATR) mode and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The XRD analysis of the 10MgHAp samples confirmed that a single crystalline phase associated to HAp with an average grain size about 93.3 nm was obtained. The FTIR-ATR spectra revealed that the 10MgHAp sample presented broader IR bands with less visible peaks when compared to a well-crystallized pure HAp. The SEM results evidenced uniform MgHAp nanoparticles with spherical shape. The antimicrobial activity of the 10MgHAp suspension against gram-positive strains (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212), gram-negative strains (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853), as well as a fungal strain (Candida albicans ATCC 90029) were evaluated.
In Vitro Genotoxicity of Polystyrene Nanoparticles on the Human Fibroblast Hs27 Cell Line
Authors: Poma Anna , Vecchiotti Giulia , Colafarina Sabrina , Zarivi Osvaldo , Aloisi Massimo , Arrizza Lorenzo , Chichiriccò Giuseppe , Di Carlo Piero
Published: September 2019

Several studies have provided information on environmental nanoplastic particles/debris, but the in vitro cyto-genotoxicity is still insufficiently characterized. The aim of this study is to analyze the effects of polystyrene nanoparticles (PNPs) in the Hs27 cell line. The viability of Hs27 cells was determined following exposure at different time windows and PNP concentrations. The genotoxic effects of the PNPs were evaluated by the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay after exposure to PNPs. We performed ROS analysis on HS27 cells to detect reactive oxygen species at different times and treatments in the presence of PNPs alone and PNPs added to the Crocus sativus L. extract. The different parameters of the CBMN test showed DNA damage, resulting in the increased formation of micronuclei and nuclear buds. We noted a greater increase in ROS production in the short treatment times, in contrast, PNPs added to Crocus sativus extract showed the ability to reduce ROS production. Finally, the SEM-EDX analysis showed a three-dimensional structure of the PNPs with an elemental composition given by C and O. This work defines PNP toxicity resulting in DNA damage and underlines the emerging problem of polystyrene nanoparticles, which extends transversely from the environment to humans; further studies are needed to clarify the internalization process.
Mixture Effects of Diesel Exhaust and Metal Oxide Nanoparticles in Human Lung A549 Cells
Authors: Zerboni Alessandra , Bengalli Rossella , Baeri Giulia , Fiandra Luisa , Catelani Tiziano , Mantecca Paride
Published: September 2019

Airborne ultrafine particles (UFP) mainly derive from combustion sources (e.g., diesel exhaust particles—DEP), abrasion sources (non-exhaust particles) or from the unintentional release of engineered nanoparticles (e.g., metal oxide nanoparticles—NPs), determining human exposure to UFP mixtures. The aim of the present study was to analyse the combined in vitro effects of DEP and metal oxide NPs (ZnO, CuO) on human lung A549 cells. The mixtures and the relative single NPs (DEP, ZnO, CuO) were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and inductively coupled plasma-optic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Cells were exposed for different times (3–72 h) to mixtures of standard DEP at a subcytotoxic concentration and ZnO and CuO at increasing concentrations. At the end of the exposure, the cytotoxicity was assessed by 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) and clonogenic tests, the pro-inflammatory potential was evaluated by interleukin-8 (IL-8) release and the cell morphology was investigated by fluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained results suggest that the presence of DEP may introduce new physico-chemical interactions able to increase the cytotoxicity of ZnO and to reduce that of CuO NPs.
New Evidence of the Bidentate Binding Mode in 3-MBA Protected Gold Clusters: Analysis of Aqueous 13–18 kDa Gold-Thiolate Clusters by HPLC-ESI-MS Reveals Special Compositions Aun(3-MBA)p, (n = 48–67, p = 26–30)
Authors: Black David , Hoque M. , Plascencia-Villa Germán , Whetten Robert
Published: September 2019

Gold clusters protected by 3-MBA ligands (MBA = mercaptobenzoic acid, –SPhCO2H) have attracted recent interest due to their unusual structures and their advantageous ligand-exchange and bioconjugation properties. Azubel et al. first determined the core structure of an Au68-complex, which was estimated to have 32 ligands (3-MBA groups). To explain the exceptional structure-composition and reaction properties of this complex, and its larger homologs, Tero et al. proposed a “dynamic stabilization” via carboxyl O–H––Au interactions. Herein, we report the first results of an integrated liquid chromatography/mass spectrometer (LC/MS) analysis of unfractionated samples of gold/3-MBA clusters, spanning a narrow size range 13.4 to 18.1 kDa. Using high-throughput procedures adapted from bio-macromolecule analyses, we show that integrated capillary high performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometer (HPLC-ESI-MS), based on aqueous-methanol mobile phases and ion-pairing reverse-phase chromatography, can separate several major components from the nanoclusters mixture that may be difficult to resolve by standard native gel electrophoresis due to their similar size and charge. For each component, one obtains a well-resolved mass spectrum, nearly free of adducts or signs of fragmentation. A consistent set of molecular mass determinations is calculated from detected charge-states tunable from 3− (or lower), to 2+ (or higher). One thus arrives at a series of new compositions (n, p) specific to the Au/3-MBA system. The smallest major component is assigned to the previously unknown (48, 26); the largest one is evidently (67, 30), vs. the anticipated (68, 32). Various explanations for this discrepancy are considered. A prospective is given for the various members of this novel series, along with a summary of the advantages and present limitations of the micro-scale integrated LC/MS approach in characterizing such metallic-core macro-molecules, and their derivatives.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Palmitoylethanolamide and Its New Formulations in Synergy with Different Antioxidant Molecules Present in Diets
Authors: Peritore Alessio Filippo , Siracusa Rosalba , Crupi Rosalia , Cuzzocrea Salvatore
Published: September 2019

The use of a complete nutritional approach seems increasingly promising to combat chronic inflammation. The choice of healthy sources of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, associated with regular physical activity and avoidance of smoking is essential to fight the war against chronic diseases. At the base of the analgesic, anti-inflammatory, or antioxidant action of the diets, there are numerous molecules, among which some of a lipidic nature very active in the inflammatory pathway. One class of molecules found in diets with anti-inflammatory actions are ALIAmides. Among all, one is particularly known for its ability to counteract the inflammatory cascade, the Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). PEA is a molecular that is present in nature, in numerous foods, and is endogenously produced by our body, which acts as a balancer of inflammatory processes, also known as endocannabionoid-like. PEA is often used in the treatment of both acute and chronic inflammatory pathologies, either alone or in association with other molecules with properties, such as antioxidants or analgesics. This review aims to illustrate an overview of the different diets that are involved in the process of opposition to the inflammatory cascade, focusing on capacity of PEA and new formulations in synergy with other molecules.
Reply to “Why Secondary Analyses in Vitamin D Clinical Trials Are important and How to Improve Vitamin D Clinical Trial Outcome Analyses—A Comment on “Extra-Skeletal Effects of Vitamin D”, Nutrients 2019, 11, 1460”
Authors: Misra Madhusmita , Marino Rose
Published: September 2019

We appreciate the interest of Drs [...]
Obesity Status Affects the Relationship Between Protein Intake and Insulin Sensitivity in Late Pregnancy
Authors: Allman Brittany R. , Diaz Fuentes Eva , Williams D. Keith , Turner Donald E. , Andres Aline , Børsheim Elisabet
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine the associations between amount and type of dietary protein intake and insulin sensitivity in late pregnancy, in normal weight and overweight women (29.8 ± 0.2 weeks gestation, n = 173). A 100-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was administered following an overnight fast to estimate the metabolic clearance rate of glucose (MCR, mg·kg−1·min−1) using four different equations accounting for the availability of blood samples. Total (TP), animal (AP), and plant (PP) protein intakes were assessed using a 3-day food record. Two linear models with MCR as the response variable were fitted to the data to estimate the relationship of protein intake to insulin sensitivity either unadjusted or adjusted for early pregnancy body mass index (BMI) because of the potential of BMI to influence this relationship. There was a positive association between TP (β = 1.37, p = 0.002) and PP (β = 4.44, p < 0.001) intake in the last trimester of pregnancy and insulin sensitivity that weakened when accounting for early pregnancy BMI. However, there was no relationship between AP intake and insulin sensitivity (β = 0.95, p = 0.08). Therefore, early pregnancy BMI may be a better predictor of insulin sensitivity than dietary protein intake in late pregnancy.
Genome-Wide Analysis and Expression Profiling of Rice Hybrid Proline-Rich Proteins in Response to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses, and Hormone Treatment
Authors: Kapoor Ritu , Kumar Gulshan , Arya Preeti , Jaswal Rajdeep , Jain Priyanka , Singh Kashmir , Sharma Tilak Raj
Published: September 2019

Hybrid proline-rich proteins (HyPRPs) belong to the family of 8-cysteine motif (8CM) containing proteins that play important roles in plant development processes, and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. To gain insight into the rice HyPRPs, we performed a systematic genome-wide analysis and identified 45 OsHyPRP genes encoding 46 OsHyPRP proteins. The phylogenetic relationships of OsHyPRP proteins with monocots (maize, sorghum, and Brachypodium) and a dicot (Arabidopsis) showed clustering of the majority of OsHyPRPs along with those from other monocots, which suggests lineage-specific evolution of monocots HyPRPs. Based on our previous RNA-Seq study, we selected differentially expressed OsHyPRPs genes and used quantitative real-time-PCR (qRT-PCR) to measure their transcriptional responses to biotic (Magnaporthe oryzae) and abiotic (heat, cold, and salt) stresses and hormone treatment (Abscisic acid; ABA, Methyl-Jasmonate; MeJA, and Salicylic acid; SA) in rice blast susceptible Pusa Basmati-1 (PB1) and blast-resistant near-isogenic line PB1+Pi9. The induction of OsHyPRP16 expression in response to the majority of stresses and hormonal treatments was highly correlated with the number of cis-regulatory elements present in its promoter region. In silico docking analysis of OsHyPRP16 showed its interaction with sterols of fungal/protozoan origin. The characterization of the OsHyPRP gene family enables us to recognize the plausible role of OsHyPRP16 in stress tolerance.
Amphoteric Ion Exchange Membranes Prepared by Preirradiation-Induced Emulsion Graft Copolymerization for Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Cui Yu , Chen Xibang , Wang Yicheng , Peng Jing , Zhao Long , Du Jifu , Zhai Maolin
Published: September 2019

A series of poly(vinylidene difluoride)-based amphoteric ion exchange membranes (AIEMs) were prepared by preirradiation-induced graft copolymerization of styrene and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate in an aqueous emulsion media followed by solution casting, sulfonation, and protonation. The effects of absorbed dose and comonomer concentration on grafting yield (GY) were investigated. The highest GY of 44.5% at a low comonomer concentration of 0.9 M could be achieved. FTIR, TGA, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the successful grafting and sulfonation of the as-prepared AIEMs. Properties of the AIEMs such as water uptake, ion exchange capacity (IEC), ionic conductivity, and crossover behavior of VO2+ ions prepared by this novel technique were systematically investigated and compared with those of the commercial Nafion 115 membrane. It was found that at a GY of 28.4%, the AIEMs showed higher IEC and conductivity, lower permeability of VO2+ ions, and a longer time to maintain open circuit voltage than Nafion 115, which was attributed to their high GY and elaborate amphoteric structure. Consequently, this work has paved the way for the development of green and low-cost AIEMs with good performance for vanadium redox flow battery applications.
New Strategy to Cope with Common Fishery Policy Landing Obligation: Collagen Extraction from Skins and Bones of Undersized Hake (Merluccius merluccius)
Authors: Blanco María , G. Sotelo Carmen , I. Pérez-Martín Ricardo
Published: September 2019

In order to promote sustainable fishing practices within European fishing fleets and to avoid the large waste of valuable fish biomass through the practice of fish discarding, the new reform of the common fisheries policy includes the obligation of landing all species under total allowable catch (TAC) regulations. The new policy also prohibits the use of specimens under minimum conservation reference size for direct human cons38umption. In this context, it is necessary to find new uses for undersized fish, which might help to alleviate the costs associated with the landing obligation but without prompting the creation of a market. European hake (EH) (Merluccius merluccius), which is one of the most important commercial fish species for the Spanish fishing industry, with a total TAC for 2018 of 37,423 t, is used for this study. Consistent with the current policy framework and taking into account the commercial importance of this species, the aim of this work is to study a new strategy for the extraction of collagen from the skin and bone fraction of Merluccius merluccius undersized discards. Three collagen fractions are successfully isolated for the first time from the skin of M. merluccius skin and bone discarded raw material: acid-soluble collagen (ASC) fraction 1 and pepsin-soluble collagen (PSC) fraction 2 from the skin and ASC fraction 3 from bones. The total collagen yield of the process is 13.55 ± 3.18% in a dry basis (g collagen/100 g of skin and bone fraction (SBF)) and 47.80 ± 9.83% (g collagen/100 g of collagen determined by the hydroxyproline content in SBF). The three fractions are further characterized by using different physical and chemical analysis techniques, with the conclusion drawn that the triple helix structure is preserved in the three fractions, although ASC fractions (F1 and F3) present more or stronger hydrogen bonds than the PSC fraction (F2). With the process herein presented, deboned and skinned hake specimens could represent an interesting source of high quality type I collagen, which could be useful as a raw material for the biomedical, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries.
Molecularly Imprinted Sol-Gel for TNT Detection with Optical Micro-Ring Resonator Sensor Chips
Authors: Eisner Ludmila , Wilhelm Isabel , Flachenecker Günter , Hürttlen Jürgen , Schade Wolfgang
Published: September 2019

A sensor for trinitrotoluene (TNT) detection was developed by using a combination of optical micro-ring technology and a receptor coating based on molecularly imprinted sol-gel layers. Two techniques for deposition of receptor layers were compared: Airbrush technology and electrospray ionization. A concentration of less than 5 ppb for TNT in the gas-phase, using electrospray deposition of the receptor layer, was detected. The cross-sensitivities to organic substances and further nitro-based explosives were compared. As a result, the sensitivity to TNT is about one order of magnitude higher in comparison to the explosives 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT) or 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) and about four orders of magnitude higher than the organic substances phenol, ethanol, and acetone. The signal response of the sensor is fast, and the compact sensor design enables the deposition of different receptor layers on multiple optical micro-rings on one chip, which allows a more precise analysis and reduction of side effects and false alarms.
Multilayer Thickness Measurements below the Rayleigh Limit Using FMCW Millimeter and Terahertz Waves
Authors: Schreiner Nina S. , Sauer-Greff Wolfgang , Urbansky Ralph , von Freymann Georg , Friederich Fabian
Published: September 2019

We present thickness measurements with millimeter and terahertz waves using frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) sensors. In contrast to terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (TDS), our FMCW systems provide a higher penetration depth and measurement rates of several kilohertz at frequency modulation bandwidths of up to 175 GHz. In order to resolve thicknesses below the Rayleigh resolution limit given by the modulation bandwidth, we employed a model-based signal processing technique. Within this contribution, we analyzed the influence of multiple reflections adapting a modified transfer matrix method. Based on a brute force optimization, we processed the models and compared them with the measured signal in parallel on a graphics processing unit, which allows fast calculations in less than 1 s. TDS measurements were used for the validation of our results on industrial samples. Finally, we present results obtained with reduced frequency modulation bandwidths, opening the window to future miniaturization based on monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) radar units.
Intelligent Identification for Rock-Mineral Microscopic Images Using Ensemble Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Zhang Ye , Li Mingchao , Han Shuai , Ren Qiubing , Shi Jonathan
Published: September 2019

It is significant to identify rock-mineral microscopic images in geological engineering. The task of microscopic mineral image identification, which is often conducted in the lab, is tedious and time-consuming. Deep learning and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) provide a method to analyze mineral microscopic images efficiently and smartly. In this research, the transfer learning model of mineral microscopic images is established based on Inception-v3 architecture. The four mineral image features, including K-feldspar (Kf), perthite (Pe), plagioclase (Pl), and quartz (Qz or Q), are extracted using Inception-v3. Based on the features, the machine learning methods, logistic regression (LR), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), k-nearest neighbors (KNN), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and gaussian naive Bayes (GNB), are adopted to establish the identification models. The results are evaluated using 10-fold cross-validation. LR, SVM, and MLP have a significant performance among all the models, with accuracy of about 90.0%. The evaluation result shows LR, SVM, and MLP are the outstanding single models in high-dimensional feature analysis. The three models are also selected as the base models in model stacking. The LR model is also set as the meta classifier in the final prediction. The stacking model can achieve 90.9% accuracy, which is higher than all the single models. The result also shows that model stacking effectively improves model performance.
Toward High-Resolution Soil Moisture Monitoring by Combining Active-Passive Microwave and Optical Vegetation Remote Sensing Products with Land Surface Model
Authors: Toride Kinya , Sawada Yohei , Aida Kentaro , Koike Toshio
Published: September 2019

The assimilation of radiometer and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data is a promising recent technique to downscale soil moisture products, yet it requires land surface parameters and meteorological forcing data at a high spatial resolution. In this study, we propose a new downscaling approach, named integrated passive and active downscaling (I-PAD), to achieve high spatial and temporal resolution soil moisture datasets over regions without detailed soil data. The Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer (AMSR-E) and Phased Array-type L-band SAR (PALSAR) data are combined through a dual-pass land data assimilation system to obtain soil moisture at 1 km resolution. In the first step, fine resolution model parameters are optimized based on fine resolution PALSAR soil moisture and moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) leaf area index data, and coarse resolution AMSR-E brightness temperature data. Then, the 25 km AMSR-E observations are assimilated into a land surface model at 1 km resolution with a simple but computationally low-cost algorithm that considers the spatial resolution difference. Precipitation data are used as the only inputs from ground measurements. The evaluations at the two lightly vegetated sites in Mongolia and the Little Washita basin show that the time series of soil moisture are improved at most of the observation by the assimilation scheme. The analyses reveal that I-PAD can capture overall spatial trends of soil moisture within the coarse resolution radiometer footprints, demonstrating the potential of the algorithm to be applied over data-sparse regions. The capability and limitation are discussed based on the simple optimization and assimilation schemes used in the algorithm.
Pathologies and Paradoxes of Co-Creation: A Contribution to the Discussion about Corporate Social Responsibility in Building a Competitive Advantage in the Age of Industry 4.0
Authors: Adamik Anna , Nowicki Michał
Published: September 2019

Research problem: Revolution Industry 4.0. forces companies to face specific competence-related, technological, organizational and even ethical challenges. The use of innovative “tools” associated with that revolution not only brings new technological challenges, opportunities to build new competitive advantages, new areas of activity, and new types of business benefits but also doubts, questions, or even pathologies and paradoxes. Sometimes, entities that do not fully understand the essence of the new concepts, methods, or techniques use them incorrectly or abuse them for private goals and expose themselves to criticism—sometimes even social condemnation. These are examples of the lack of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of these organizations. This situation also has reached co-creation. In theory, it is a very positive concept, aimed at building competitiveness, or various types of competitive advantages of companies by creating value for clients with their participation. In economic practice, unfortunately, it is not always successful. Purpose: The main purpose of this paper is to identify and characterize the key paradoxes and areas of potential pathologies of creating competitive advantage based on co-creation without CSR in the case of companies operating in the age of Industry 4.0. Originality/value of the paper: A theoretical study based on the extensive literature review describing paradoxes, ethical and CSR problems of co-creation in organizations creating competitive advantage in the age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and a qualitative methodology of research. This study attempts to systematize paradoxes of co-creation and the areas and industries in which the related pathologies of co-creation occur particularly often and distinctively in economic practice. The empirical studies were conducted as a review of case studies of companies that use the concept of co-creation in an irregular way (paradoxical or with pathologies). This study identified and characterized the key 31 paradoxes and pathologies of creating competitive advantage based on co-creation in the case of 14 companies operating in the age of Industry 4.0. Implications: The identification of main dilemmas, paradoxes and pathologies of co-creation; signaling the role of governance and CSR in processes of the valuable use of co-creation in the age of Industry 4.0. Based on the observations described in the paper, it is worth recommending that when becoming involved in co-creation, one should observe ethical standards and assumptions of CSR, and require the same from partners and other parties involved. Otherwise, the risk is that instead of co-creation, the result achieved will be exactly the opposite to that intended, which is co-destruction, and condemnation instead of glory. This is why it is worth considering the paradoxes that are key to co-creation and approaching solutions in a conscious way.
Perceived Value and Customer Adoption of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles
Authors: Higueras-Castillo Elena , Molinillo Sebastian , Coca-Stefaniak J. Andres , Liébana-Cabanillas Francisco
Published: September 2019

Internal combustion engine vehicles are a key source contributing to urban air pollution. In order to reduce noxious emissions and reliance on fossil fuels, governments and the automobile industry have started promoting the adoption of electro mobility (EM) options over the last few years, albeit with limited success in terms of market penetration. This study aimed to improve the current understanding of factors influencing customers’ intentions to adopt EM options. Building on the theories of perceived value and reasoned action, this study posits a behavioural model based on four dimensions of perceived value and two technical performance characteristics of EM vehicles with regards to their influence on customer attitudes towards EM options, as a precursor to purchase. The model was tested empirically using structural equation modelling analysis using data gathered through an online survey of 404 consumers in Spain. The results of this study showed that emotional issues, product price, vehicle acceleration and low engine noise levels have a considerable impact on consumer attitudes, which, in turn, have a positive impact on purchase intentions of EM vehicles. However, quality and social value were not found to have a positive influence on consumer attitudes. On the basis of this research it is recommended that, in order to promote the use of EM vehicles, governments and manufacturers alike should make better use of emotional issues in their social and product marketing strategies, as well as focusing on specific product attributes such as performance (e.g., vehicle acceleration and low engine noise levels) and value for money in terms of energy consumption.
Performance of Two Long-Term Satellite-Based and GPCC 8.0 Precipitation Products for Drought Monitoring over the Yellow River Basin in China
Authors: Wei Linyong , Jiang Shanhu , Ren Liliang , Yuan Fei , Zhang Linqi
Published: September 2019

This study investigated the accuracy and drought monitoring application of two newly-released long-term satellite precipitation products (i.e., the Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks-Climate Data Record, PERSIANN-CDR and the Climate Hazards Group Infrared Precipitation with Station data version 2.0 CHIRPS) and the latest reanalysis precipitation product (i.e., the Global Precipitation Climatology Centre full data monthly version 2018, GPCC 8.0). Satellite- and reanalysis-based precipitation sequences and standardized precipitation indices (SPIs) were compared comprehensively with background estimates of the China Gauge-based Daily Precipitation Analysis (CGDPA) dataset at spatial and multiple temporal scales over the Yellow River Basin (YRB) in China during 1983–2016. Results indicated the PERSIANN-CDR, CHIRPS and GPCC 8.0 precipitation products generally had good consistency with CGDPA (correlation coefficient, CC > 0.78). At spatial, monthly and seasonal scales, the consistency between GPCC 8.0 and CGDPA precipitation was found to be better than that of the two satellite products. Due to their good performance at the spatiotemporal scale, the satellite with long-time record and GPCC 8.0 products were evaluated and compared with CGDPA to derive SPI-1 (1-month SPI), SPI-3 (3-month SPI), and SPI-12 (12-month SPI) for drought monitoring in the YRB. The results showed that they had good application in monitoring droughts (CC > 0.65 at spatial scale, CC > 0.84 at temporal scale). The historical drought years (i.e., 1997, 1999, and 2006) and the spatial distribution of drought area in August 1997 were captured successfully, but the performance of GPCC 8.0 was found to be the best. Overall, GPCC 8.0 is considered best suited to complement precipitation datasets for long-term hydrometeorological research in the YRB.
Evaluating the Performance of Systemic Innovation Problems of the IoT in Manufacturing Industries by Novel MCDM Methods
Authors: Kao Yu-Sheng , Nawata Kazumitsu , Huang Chi-Yo
Published: September 2019

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an important technological innovation that can enhance industrial competitiveness and sustainability. Thus, governments need to carefully construct an innovation portfolio that promotes sustainable IoT development. To help define an accurate innovation policy and promote development of the IoT industries, potential problems in terms of systemic perspectives should be examined. Such problems, so-called “systemic innovation problems”, influence and block sustainable development of IoT technology as well as the IoT industry. However, past studies that explored systemic innovation problems in IoT-related industries are limited. Thus, this research aims to explore systemic innovation problems related to configuring an IoT innovation policy portfolio. A hybrid Bayesian rough based evaluation model was used to derive the most feasible policy instruments. The modified Delphi, Bayesian Rough Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory Based Network Procedures (BR-DNP), and the modified Bayesian rough Vlse Kriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (MBR-VIKOR) were introduced. Gaps in performance corresponding to each systemic innovation problem can thus be assessed based on the features of technological innovation systems. The applicability of the proposed model for promoting industrial sustainability of IoT in the Taiwanese smart manufacturing industry (based on the opinions provided by Taiwanese experts) was verified by an empirical study. Eleven systemic innovation problems that influence the development of the IoT for the smart manufacturing industry were compared and ranked. Based on the results of the empirical study, the performance-gap ratio of “low level of interdisciplinary collaboration” problem is the lowest, as compared to other systemic innovation problems. In addition, the systemic functions of entrepreneurial activities and knowledge development are relatively more important than other systemic functions. The empirical results can serve as a basis for planning an IoT innovation policy portfolio definition and roadmap. Moreover, suggestions for enhancing current systemic innovation problems are provided for policy makers and industrial researchers, according to the results of the evaluation.
Axial Compression Performance of Post-Fire Concrete Columns Strengthened Using Thin-Walled Steel Tubes
Authors: Luo Yi , Su Jiapeng , Xu Yuye , Ou Tingru , Peng Xingqian
Published: September 2019

For concrete columns damaged by fire, a strengthen technique using thin-walled steel tubes is proposed. To investigate the axial compression capacity of post-fire concrete columns strengthened using thin-walled steel tubes, considering tube thickness, the strengthening method, and section geometry, 12 specimens were fabricated, of which two were control columns and 10 were exposed to fire in accordance with the ISO834 temperature curve. Subsequently, eight specimens were strengthened. Axial compression tests were conducted to provide a better understanding of the strengthening technique. The experiments indicated that: (1) Different failure modes were observed for different cross section geometry—local bucking for square sections, and shear failure for circular sections. (2) The stiffness, axial strength, and ultimate deformation capacity of the enhanced columns may be rehabilitated and even better than the undamaged ones. (3) Two enhancement methods were compared. The steel tubes act as restraints, are merely subjected to tension, and provide strong restraint to the core concrete. The tube carrying load together with the concrete columns are mainly subject to compression, and likely to buckle with longitudinal strain. Finally, axial compressive equations of post-fire reinforced concrete (RC) with thin-wall steel tubes, including both square sections and circle sections, were proposed on the mechanism of concrete filled steel tubes.
Effectiveness of Ring Roads in Reducing Traffic Congestion in Cities for Long Run: Big Almaty Ring Road Case Study
Authors: Nugmanova Assel , Arndt Wulf-Holger , Hossain Md Aslam , Kim Jong Ryeol
Published: September 2019

It is common to increase road capacity by constructing ring roads to reduce traffic congestion in city areas, although this is often found to be ineffective in the long run. Accordingly, this study investigates various traffic congestion management approaches and their effectiveness in major cities, and explores an identical transport problem in Almaty, Kazakhstan: The Big Almaty Ring Road (BAKAD). Several case examples from the existing literature are examined in which various approaches were taken for managing traffic congestion problems, and these approaches are classified into three concepts. The first concept comprises heavy engineering measures such as ring road development, new road construction, expansion of existing roads, etc. Such measures can initially reduce traffic congestion, but often become ineffective with time due to the generation of induced traffic. Many cities have taken Push and Pull measures that ensure more efficient use of existing capacity and have initiated environmentally friendly alternative transportation modes such as decreased car usage; promotion of public transport, biking and walking; minimization of the necessity of people’s movement by changing urban land use patterns; and so on. These approaches have been found to be effective in providing sustainable transportation solutions and are classified as concept 2. Nevertheless, Push and Pull measures might not be enough for managing traffic congestion, and it might be necessary to increase the road capacity through heavy engineering measures, especially if the city experiences heavy transit traffic. This combined approach is categorized as concept 3. Consequently, the BAKAD project is examined under the umbrella of three concepts, and recommendations are provided based on the findings from the experience of different cities and interviews with experts from Almaty city. Both the results and recommendations developed are relevant for this specific case only, and are not necessarily transferable.
A Decade of Avian Influenza in Bangladesh: Where Are We Now?
Authors: Rimi Nadia A. , Hassan Md. Zakiul , Chowdhury Sukanta , Rahman Mahmudur , Sultana Rebeca , Biswas Paritosh K. , Debnath Nitish C. , Islam SK Shaheenur , Ross Allen G.
Published: September 2019

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been a public health threat in Bangladesh since the first reported outbreak in poultry in 2007. The country has undertaken numerous efforts to detect, track, and combat avian influenza viruses (AIVs). The predominant genotype of the H5N1 viruses is clade 2.3.2.1a. The persistent changing of clades of the circulating H5N1 strains suggests probable mutations that might have been occurring over time. Surveillance has provided evidence that the virus has persistently prevailed in all sectors and caused discontinuous infections. The presence of AIV in live bird markets has been detected persistently. Weak biosecurity in the poultry sector is linked with resource limitation, low risk perception, and short-term sporadic interventions. Controlling avian influenza necessitates a concerted multi-sector ‘One Health’ approach that includes the government and key stakeholders.
Presence of a Novel Subtype of Bovine Hepacivirus in China and Expanded Classification of Bovine Hepacivirus Strains Worldwide into 7 Subtypes
Authors: Lu Gang , Ou Jiajun , Zhao Jiawei , Li Shoujun
Published: September 2019

The newest member of the Hepacivirus genus, bovine hepacivirus (BovHepV), was first identified in cattle in 2015 and is a novel hepacivirus C virus (HCV)-like virus. This virus has been detected in five countries so far and is classified into four subtypes. Bovine serum is commonly used for cell cultures and is considered the major source of viral contamination of pharmaceutical products. In this study, bovine serum samples were collected from seven countries located in Asia, America, Oceania, and Europe and were tested for BovHepV RNA using nested PCR, in order to: (i) obtain more knowledge on the geographical distribution and subtypes of BovHepV; and (ii) detect the potential contamination of BovHepV in commercial bovine serum samples used for cell culture propagation. The results demonstrated that bovine serum samples from individual donor cattle in China contained BovHepV RNA. After PCR, sequencing, and assembly, the genomes of the Chinese BovHepV strains were obtained. Genetic analysis of the polyprotein gene revealed a protein identity of <77% and a nucleotide identity of <85% between the Chinese BovHepV strains and all other previously reported BovHepV strains. Using cut-off values for determination of HCV genotypes and subtypes, BovHepV strains worldwide were classified into one unique genotype and seven subtypes. The BovHepV strains identified in the present study were classified into a novel subtype, which was provisionally designated subtype G. The genetic relationships among the different BovHepV subtypes were further confirmed through phylogenetic analysis. The present study provides critical insights into BovHepV’s geographical distribution and genetic variability.