bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SPATIAL EXPLICIT MODELING TO UNDERSTAND THE DYNAMICS OF LANDUSE SWITCH USING OPEN SOURCE SATELLITE DATA
Authors: Kallvetty Saifudheen , Bandopadhyay Subhajit
Published: August 2018

Restless global urbanization needs to monitor in order to design a stable and sustainable urban habitat. In this regard, remote sensing and GIS are considered as an efficient monitoring and decision-support tool in sustainable urban planning and practices. In this paper we accumulate the results of a research undertaken to measure the urban sprawl and land use dynamics of the Dehradun city, Uttarakhand using vast sixteen years data and spatially explicit cellular automata CA-Markov model. Furthermore, future scenario of the city and land use was also examined. To achieve the desired goal, sixteen years large temporal images of Landsat were used to analyze the spatial decoration of land use change in the study area. The outcome of this study was clearly reviled that there was a substantial change was take place in the Dehradun city and its surroundings in last sixteen years. Modeling proposed a clear trend of various land use classes’ transformation in the area of urban built up expansions and urban encroachment whereas agricultural lands and forest covers are reduced at an alarming rate over the time. Dynamically increasing population of the city can be approximated by the predicted future scenarios. In order to promote a balance in between urban growth and environmental protection towards a sustainable urban habitat and environmental, local community involvement and capacity building program can be an efficient drive in this regard.
Design and fabrication of nonlinear optical waveguides for far-detuned wavelength conversion to the mid-infrared
Authors: Rochette Martin
Published: August 2018

Highly nonlinear gain media that are optically pumped by rare-earth doped sources have become a promising approach for the fabrication of all-fiber mid-infrared laser sources. This article focuses on the recent progresses of highly nonlinear chalcogenide microwires as practical gain media for far-detuned wavelength conversion towards the mid-infrared.
The effect of topic familiarity on the complexity, accuracy, and fluency of second language writing
Authors: Yang Weiwei , Kim YouJin
Published: August 2018

The purpose of the current study is to examine the role of topic familiarity in the complexity, accuracy, and fluency of second language (L2) writing. Topic familiarity was operationalized as whether writers are writing about a common, everyday subject matter in relation to themselves (+ familiar) or to a group they are not familiar with (–familiar), and a learner survey was used to test the validity of the construct. A total of 123 Chinese EFL college students participated in the study, with 61 writing on a familiar topic and 62 writing on a less familiar topic. Their writing performance was analyzed for lexical complexity, syntactic complexity, accuracy, and fluency. Data analyses revealed that the students produced essays with significantly lower lexical complexity for the less familiar topic than for the familiar topic, while the performance areas of accuracy, fluency, and syntactic complexity were not affected by the degree of familiarity. The study findings are discussed in terms of their implications for task selection and sequencing for L2 teaching and assessment purposes.
Perspective modification of medical education in the sphere of telemedicine in Ukraine based on experience gained during professional internships in Poland
Authors: Michalik Ilona , Kańtoch Anna , Petiurenko Anna
Published: August 2018

The processes of globalization and integration, as well as technologies and computerization, occurring in public life cause significant changes in all its spheres, especially in medicine. Nowadays, computerization of health-care facilities has become the norm of their development. However, rapid technological change requires the modernization of medical education system, revising the approaches to the training of competitive medical professionals who will able to adapt quickly to changes in the field of health care. The research issue concerns the processes of future medical professionals’ training. The importance of telemedicine in health-care systems of Ukraine and Poland is justified. It is suggested that the problem of telemedicine and e-health usage in the process of medical professionals’ training in Ukraine is not studied sufficiently and does not have practical consolidation. The didactic methodology of medical specialties students training for the use of telemedicine technologies in future professional activities is developed.
Food Stamps, Income Shocks, and Crime: Evidence from California
Authors: Lovett Nicholas
Published: August 2018

An extensive literature shows that reduced labor earnings lead to an increase in criminality, while another literature suggests that diminished economic conditions via changes in public assistance programs may alter criminal behavior. This study considers electronic benefit transfer (EBT) reforms that may have altered households’ real income, black market activity, and criminality. A natural experiment that relies on plausibly exogenous variation in the timing of EBT reforms across California counties is exploited within an event study design to identify the effect of EBT adoption on arrests. A significant, though transitory, increase in criminal arrests is revealed. Following conversion to EBT delivery, the average county experiences an additional 108 arrests per month, or equivalently an increase of 5 . This increase in arrests lasts up to 6 months before fading out. The increase is most pronounced for crimes motivated by income shortfalls, such as burglary, larceny, prostitution, and robbery. In the average county, income-motivated criminal arrests rise by about 25 arrests, or 10 . Estimates are practically and statistically significant, as well as robust to changes in controls and specification. Findings suggest that income shocks can substantially change criminal behavior and that declining economic conditions can alter criminal behavior through channels other than labor earnings.
Unconditional Basic Income in the Czech Republic: What Type of Taxes Could Fund It? A Theoretical Tax Analysis
Authors: Špeciánová Jitka
Published: August 2018

This paper contains a summary of public support for the idea of unconditional basic income in the Czech Republic in the first part. Interest in unconditional income can be found both in the Czech political sphere and in the social sciences community. In the second part, the article theoretically analyzes the possible sources of unconditional basic income funding. The aim of this paper is to support argumentation in favor of the implementation of BI by a systematic analysis of the real possibilities of its funding through the state tax revenues. The feasibility of funding a BI scheme using taxes on labor, property, consumption, environmental taxes, financial transaction tax, and tax on the transfer of information is considered. Consideration is also given to administrative savings that the basic income system could bring. Due to political enforceability of BI, it is important to contemplate and discuss the distortions and other problems of proposed changes in taxation, which would not be negligible as can be expected.
Tensor Train Spectral Method for Learning of Hidden Markov Models (HMM)
Authors: Kuznetsov Maxim A. , Oseledets Ivan V.
Published: August 2018

We propose a new algorithm for spectral learning of Hidden Markov Models (HMM).
In contrast to the standard approach, we do not estimate the
parameters of the HMM directly, but
construct an estimate for the joint probability distribution.
The idea is based on the representation of a joint probability distribution
as an N-th-order tensor with low ranks represented in the tensor train (TT) format.
Using TT-format, we get an approximation by minimizing the Frobenius distance between the empirical
joint probability distribution and tensors with low TT-ranks with core tensors normalization constraints.
We propose an algorithm for the solution of the optimization problem that is based on the
alternating least squares (ALS) approach and develop its fast version for sparse tensors.
The order of the tensor d is a parameter of our algorithm. We have compared the performance of our algorithm
with the existing algorithm by Hsu, Kakade and Zhang proposed in 2009 and found that it is much more robust if the number of hidden states is overestimated.
Distribution of CYP2D6 genotypes in the Indian population – preliminary report
Authors: Paradkar Minal U. , Shah Swarup A.V. , Dherai Alpa J. , Shetty Dhanashri , Ashavaid Tester F.
Published: August 2018

Background

Cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) allelic distribution exhibits differences amongst worldwide populations. There is lack of data from Mumbai, Western India, on the major CYP2D6 alleles *2, *3, *4, *5, *10 and *41, and gene multiplication alleles. Hence, the present study was undertaken to determine the distribution of these clinically relevant CYP2D6 alleles.

Methods

Fifty-two healthy individuals were screened using TaqMan SNP genotyping and copy number variation (CNV) assays by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The allele frequencies of CYP2D6*2, *3, *4, *5, *10 and *41 alleles were observed to be 30.8%, 0%, 11.5%, 3.9%, 19.2% and 17.3%, respectively. The frequency of CYP2D6 gene one copy, two copies, three copies and four copies were observed to be 7.7%, 76.9%, 13.5% and 1.9%, respectively. The predicted phenotype frequency was observed to be 78.9%, 3.9% and 9.6% for extensive, intermediate, and ultrarapid metabolizers, respectively, whereas poor metabolizers were not detected.

Conclusions

CYP2D6 allele frequencies showed heterogeneous distribution in the present study as compared to worldwide populations. High frequency of CYP2D6*41 allele, gene duplication alleles and UMs was observed. The scarcity and/or lack of data from the Indian population on these alleles further substantiates the need for screening of CYP2D6 genotyping.
Simvastatin-related myopathy in shift workers: a report of two cases
Authors: Flores-Unzueta Saul , Sosa-Macias Martha , Marchat Laurence A. , Lares-Assef Ismael , Carrasco-Ortega Omar , Correa-Ramirez Miguel , Guerrero-Romero Fernando , Galaviz-Hernandez Carlos
Published: August 2018

Background

Simvastatin is a widely used drug for dyslipidemia treatment, and the best therapeutic effects are achieved at night time. Simvastatin administration has been associated with the development of myopathy. Some polymorphisms in genes that are involved in the metabolism and transport of simvastatin seem to have an important role in the development of simvastatin-associated myopathy. The administration of 40 mg of simvastatin to 19 hyperlipidemic subjects with regular sleep rhythms (RR) and shift workers (SW) with predominant evening rhythms and sleep-wake disturbances, uncovered two SW volunteers who developed myopathy.

Case presentation

We report two SWs who developed simvastatin-dependent myopathy after three weeks of treatment. The SLCO1B1 521T>C major risk allele was observed in one myopathy-affected and one unaffected subjects, the second affected patient shared polymorphisms with the unaffected subjects.

Conclusions

The lack of consonance in the studied genotypes between SWs affected with simvastatin-associated myopathy can be related to circadian misalignment. Hence, other genes with circadian behavior and induced by simvastatin should be evaluated in future studies.
Infinite-dimensional triangularizable algebras
Authors: Mesyan Zachary
Published: August 2018

Let

End
k

⁢

(
V
)

{\mathrm{End}_{k}(V)}

denote the ring of all linear transformations of an arbitrary k-vector space V over a field k. We define

X
⊆

End
k

⁢

(
V
)

{X\subseteq\mathrm{End}_{k}(V)}

to be triangularizable if V has a well-ordered basis such that X sends each vector in that basis to the subspace spanned by basis vectors no greater than it. We then show that an arbitrary subset of

End
k

⁢

(
V
)

{\mathrm{End}_{k}(V)}

is strictly triangularizable (defined in the obvious way) if and only if it is topologically nilpotent. This generalizes the theorem of Levitzki that every nilpotent semigroup of matrices is triangularizable. We also give a description of the triangularizable subalgebras of

End
k

⁢

(
V
)

{\mathrm{End}_{k}(V)}

, which generalizes a theorem of McCoy classifying triangularizable algebras of matrices over algebraically closed fields.
Soil Moisture Retrievals in Aeolian Sand Mining Areas Using Temporal, Single-Polarization, High-Resolution SAR
Authors: MA Wei , MA Chao
Published: August 2018

Changes in the soil moisture are a key factor in the deterioration of the ecological environment caused by mining geological disasters. In this study, which presents a case study of the arid and semi-arid aeolian sand mining area along the Inner Mongolia-Shaanxi Province boundary, a method for retrieving the soil moisture based on RADARSAT-2 SAR scattering data and Terra MODIS surface reflectance data was proposed. The retrieval of RADARSAT-2 mainly used the Alpha approximation model based on the change detection technique, a model proposed by Balenzano et al., which can effectively decouple the impact of surface vegetation and roughness on radar backscattering coefficient, when the volume scattering is not dominant. Using 12 periods of RADARSAT-2 HH polarization data in conjunction with the Alpha approximation model, a matrix equation was constructed, which contains 11 equations and 12 unknowns. To solve this underdetermined system, a bounded linear least-squares optimization was adopted. Once the unknowns were determined, the relative dielectric constant could be analytically derived and then the soil moisture could be estimated by using the dielectric mixing model and compared with the MODIS retrieval results based on the spatial feature method. Finally, the DInSAR results of RADARSAT-2 were used to investigate the effects of high-intensity underground mining activities on the surface soil moisture. The study found that the RADARSAT-2 soil moisture estimates demonstrated good consistency with the MODIS retrieval results. Among four comparison groups, the maximum correlation coefficient was 0.599, and the highest proportion of sampling points for which the absolute error was less than 3 % was 55.6 %. The absolute error of all of the sampling points did not exceed 10 %, which demonstrates the reliability of the RADARSAT-2 retrieval results. A comparison among the 72 soil moisture values from six mining subsidence areas and corresponding non-subsidence areas in the study area in 2012 showed that 38 soil moisture values from the non-subsidence areas were higher than those from the subsidence areas. These values accounted for 53 % of the total, indicating that high-intensity mining activities have a certain negative impact on the surface soil moisture, although this impact is slightly insignificant.
Reciprocal role of hBD2 and hBD3 on the adaptive immune response by measuring T lymphocyte proliferation in terms of CD4 and CCR6 expression
Authors: Taefehshokr Nima , Isazadeh Alireza , Oveisi Amin , Key Yashar Azari , Taefehshokr Sina
Published: August 2018

Background

Human β-defensins (hBD2 and hBD3) are small cationic antimicrobial peptides of innate immune system which can act as a barrier against the majority of pathogens, contributing to the host immune defence.

Objective

The aim of study is to determine whether hBD2 and hBD3 play a role in development and proliferation of human effector CD4 T cells or not. Furthermore, if enhanced proliferation is observed in the presence of hBD2 and hBD3, these data will demonstrate whether chemokine receptor type 6 (CCR6) is required to be present for this activity to occur.

Methods

In this study, we examined the effect of hBD2 and hBD3 on CD4+ T cell proliferation in CCR6+ and CCR6− T cells through co-culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 stimulation in the presence or absence of hBD2 and hBD3. Proliferation was assessed using flow cytometry.

Results

It was demonstrated that, co-culture with hBD2 and hBD3 led to up-regulation of CD4+ T cell proliferation after 72 h whereas, CD4+ T cell proliferation was suppressed after 96 h. On the other hand, CCR6− and CCR6+ T cell proliferation was up-regulated after 72 h. But, CCR6+ only was down-regulated in the second cycle in the presence of hBD3. In contrast, after 96 h CCR6+ and CCR6− T cell proliferation was decreased.

Conclusion

Collectively, our data indicated that hBD2 and hBD3 play a positive and negative regulatory role in development and proliferation of human effector CD4+ T cells which is essential for optimal adaptive immune responses and the control of immunopathology.
Studying non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: the ins and outs of in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro human models
Authors: Green Charlotte J. , Parry Siôn A. , Gunn Pippa J. , Ceresa Carlo D.L. , Rosqvist Fredrik , Piché Marie-Eve , Hodson Leanne
Published: August 2018

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing. Determining the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of human NAFLD will allow for evidence-based prevention strategies, and more targeted mechanistic investigations. Various in vivo, ex situ and in vitro models may be utilised to study NAFLD; but all come with their own specific caveats. Here, we review the human-based models and discuss their advantages and limitations in regards to studying the development and progression of NAFLD. Overall, in vivo whole-body human studies are advantageous in that they allow for investigation within the physiological setting, however, limited accessibility to the liver makes direct investigations challenging. Non-invasive imaging techniques are able to somewhat overcome this challenge, whilst the use of stable-isotope tracers enables mechanistic insight to be obtained. Recent technological advances (i.e. normothermic machine perfusion) have opened new opportunities to investigate whole-organ metabolism, thus ex situ livers can be investigated directly. Therefore, investigations that cannot be performed in vivo in humans have the potential to be undertaken. In vitro models offer the ability to perform investigations at a cellular level, aiding in elucidating the molecular mechanisms of NAFLD. However, a number of current models do not closely resemble the human condition and work is ongoing to optimise culturing parameters in order to recapitulate this. In summary, no single model currently provides insight into the development, pathophysiology and progression across the NAFLD spectrum, each experimental model has limitations, which need to be taken into consideration to ensure appropriate conclusions and extrapolation of findings are made.
The intertextual Jewish joke at the turn of the twentieth century and the poetics of a national renewal
Authors: Sebba-Elran Tsafi
Published: August 2018

The article examines the role of the intertextual Jewish joke at the turn of the twentieth century, in its historical and cultural contexts. The case studies would be Alter Druyanow’s popular anthology,Sefer Habediha Vehahiddud(The Book of Jokes and Witticisms, Frankfurt 1922), and his archived, unpublished collection of sexual jokes. The frequent use of quotations from sacred Jewish texts, characteristic of these collections, is discussed in light of the distinction between sub-genres of the intertextual joke: the allusive joke, the parodic joke, and the satiric joke. While most reflect the folklorist’s ambition to bridge the gap between Hebrew as a holy language and Yiddish as a Jewish vernacular, a deeper examination of the jokes may discover Druyanow’s subversive motivations as a national activist as well. Druyanow and his contemporaries engaged the biblical and rabbinical sources freely, as vessels capable of sanctifying the secular subject matter of the Jewish national revival. Moreover, the unpublished collection exposes satirical elements embodied in the intertextual Jewish joke of the time, potentially threatening the traditional Jewish worldview.
Simulation of Modified Flyback Snubber Circuit for Isolated Bidirectional DC-DC Converter
Authors: Bhatt Kunalkumar Prakashbhai , Gupta Ram Avtar , Gupta Nitin
Published: August 2018

Abstract: In this paper, a modified flyback snubber circuit for isolated bidirectional DC-DC converter has been introduced. The soft switching isolated snubber circuit provides an alternative path for the current difference created due to source inductance and leakage inductance. The auxiliary snubber circuit operates during the step-up conversion, and it only persists of the two semiconductor switch, two inductors one diode and two capacitors. Both semiconductor devices (G1, G2) of flyback snubber circuit achieve soft switching during turn ON and turn OFF condition. The PWM technique has been used to control the semiconductor devices. The different mode of operation has been discussed in detail. The effective performance of proposed converter system has been validated with the PSIM simulation tool. The proposed converter is compared with the active clamp converter based on efficiency. The loss comparison proves that flyback snubber circuit has high efficiency compared to active clamp converter.
Artificial vascular models for endovascular training (3D printing)
Authors: Torres Inez , De Luccia Nelson
Published: August 2018

The endovascular technique has led to a revolution in the care of patients with vascular disease; however, acquiring and maintaining proficiency over a broad spectrum of procedures is challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology allows the production of models that can be used for endovascular training. This article aims to explain the process and technologies available to produce vascular models for endovascular training, using 3D printing technology. The data are based on the group experience and a review of the literature. Different 3D printing methods are compared, describing their advantages, disadvantages and potential roles in surgical training. The process of 3D printing a vascular model based on an imaging examination consists of the following steps: image acquisition, image post-processing, 3D printing and printed model post-processing. The entire process can take a week. Prospective studies have shown that 3D printing can improve surgical planning, especially in complex endovascular procedures, and allows the production of efficient simulators for endovascular training, improving residents’ surgical performance and self-confidence.
Reasoning, Representing, and Modeling in Babylonian Astronomy
Authors: Rochberg Francesca
Published: August 2018

This paper considers Babylonian astronomical predictive schemes as a source for the study of reasoning and representing via modeling. Two principal questions are addressed: first, whether Babylonian astronomical modeling can be usefully included in the conversation about scientific reasoning with models, and second, how and what the representational value of the practice of astronomical modeling was in ancient Babylonia. It is found that the Babylonian astronomical schemes demonstrate the adaptability and various capabilities of the process of modeling as a powerful tool of representation for scientific knowledge and theorizing.
A personal series of 100 children operated for Cushing’s disease (CD): optimizing minimally invasive diagnosis and transnasal surgery to achieve nearly 100% remission including reoperations
Authors: Crock Patricia A. , Lüdecke Dieter K. , Knappe Ulrich J. , Saeger Wolfgang
Published: August 2018

Background

Transnasal surgery (TNS) is the first choice in the treatment of pediatric Cushing’s disease. The question is how can high remission rates be achieved with minimally invasive investigations and TNS whilst avoiding radiotherapy or bilateral adrenalectomy in children.

Methods

Data from a published series 1 (n=55) of surgeon DKL will be compared with his recent series 2 (n=45) until 2009. All patients were operated by direct transnasal microsurgery. Over time, inferior petrosal sinus sampling (IPSS) was replaced by cavernous sinus sampling (CSS), restricted to unclear cases without increase of salivary cortisol in corticotropin-releasing hormone-test, difficult sellar anatomy or negative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Multiple direct intra-operative micro-cytology, micro-doppler and adequate visualization techniques are described.

Results

In series 1, IPSS was performed in 13 (24%) of whom 46% had false adenoma lateralization. All adenomas could be removed with extensive pituitary exploration. Three patients had early successful re-surgery. In series 2, with more refined MRI and endocrinology, CSS was used in only seven patients (15%) and all micro-adenomas were correctly localized. In three of four patients with persistent cortisol excess, repeat-TNS was necessary and successful. Side effects of TNS were minimal. Recurrence rates were 16% and 11% in series 1 and 2, respectively. Only four of 100 children with invasive adenomas were irradiated, significantly less than in other experienced pediatric centers.

Conclusions

Thus, 98% remission rate could be achieved with fewer invasive pre-surgical investigations, such as central catheter studies, refined TNS and early repeat-TNS. Repeat-TNS in recurrences minimized the need for irradiation.
Somatic development at birth as influenced by maternal characteristics – an analysis of the German Perinatal Survey
Authors: Olbertz Dirk Manfred , Knie Asja , Straube Sebastian , Hentschel Roland , Schleußner Ekkehard , Hagenah Hans-Peter , Däbritz Jan , Voigt Manfred
Published: August 2018

We investigated the effects of maternal age, body weight, body height, weight gain during pregnancy, smoking during pregnancy, previous live births and being a single mother on somatic development at birth. We analysed data from the German Perinatal Survey for the years 1998–2000 from eight German federal states. We had available data on 508,926 singleton pregnancies and neonates in total; for 508,893 of which we could classify the neonates as small, appropriate or large for gestational age (SGA, AGA or LGA) based on the 10th and 90th birth weight percentiles. Multivariable regression analyses found statistically significant effects of a clinically relevant magnitude for smoking during pregnancy [odds ratio (OR) 2.9 for SGA births for women smoking >10 cigarettes per day], maternal height (OR 1.4 for SGA births for women <162 cm; OR 1.4 for LGA births for women >172 cm), maternal weight (OR 1.5 for SGA births for women <59 kg; OR 1.9 for LGA births for women >69 kg), weight gain during pregnancy (OR 1.9 for SGA births for women with a weight gain <8 kg; OR 2.0 for LGA births for women with a weight gain >18 kg) and previous live births (OR 2.1 for LGA births for women with one or more previous live births). Maternal age and being a single mother also had significant effects but their magnitude was small. Our analysis confirms the clinically relevant effects of smoking, maternal anthropometric measures and weight gain during pregnancy on neonatal somatic development.
Wintering range of Pipistrellus nathusii (Chiroptera) in Central Europe: has the species extended to the north-east using urban heat islands?
Authors: Sachanowicz Konrad , Ciechanowski Mateusz , Tryjanowski Piotr , Kosicki Jakub Z.
Published: August 2018

Recent climate warming is thought to affect the migratory behavior and geographical range shifts of Pipistrellus nathusii. This bat of the European temperate woodland zone is known to migrate up to 1900 km between its breeding and wintering areas where it uses overground roosts for hibernation. New wintering areas of the species have been recorded lately mainly in the cities of Central Europe, largely extending its winter distribution to the north-east. The growing detection of the winter occurrence of P. nathusii has coincided with an increase in mean winter temperatures and urban warming. Our analysis shows that a winter isotherm of −2.5°C acts as a border for the winter occurrence of P. nathusii, and the species uses urban areas, most likely benefiting from the effect of urban heat islands. Accordingly, the island-like pattern of P. nathusii’s regular wintering habitats distribution in Central Europe seems to reflect the thermal and structural diversity of the environment. The use of diverse anthropogenic roosts suggests that the species is well-adapted to urban habitats, thus demonstrating its ecological plasticity.
Addition of corn fiber xylan to eucalyptus and pinus pulp and its effect on pulp bleachability and strength
Authors: Barbosa Bianca Moreira , Lino Alessandro Guarino , de Freitas Homem de Faria Bruno , de Aguiar Alex Ramos , Gomes Fernando José Borges , da Silva Juliana Cristina , Colodette Jorge Luiz
Published: August 2018

Corn fibers are a significant residue of agriculture due to the huge amounts, which has fueled interest in a more rational use of its components, particularly regarding hemicelluloses. The impact of hemicellulose redeposition on printer and writing (P&W) paper grade pulp properties are discussed in this paper. Xylans extracted from corn fibers (16.9 % xylans) by cold caustic extraction (CCE) were added to commercial brown pulps (eucalypt and pine) in the oxygen delignification (O-stage) and further bleached to 90 % ISO brightness. Hemicelluloses deposition occurred at variable degree (up to 7 % on pulp weight). Pulp bleachability was not impaired by xylan deposition for eucalypt and pine pulps. Xylan deposition onto fibers was more efficient in eucalypt pulp than pine. Pulp beatability and strength properties were improved by xylan deposition for P&W paper grades.
Size-controlled atomically precise copper nanoclusters: Synthetic protocols, spectroscopic properties and applications
Authors: Das Nirmal Kumar , Mukherjee Saptarshi
Published: August 2018

Noble metal nanoclusters (NCs) are a new class of nanomaterials which are considered being a missing link between isolated metal atoms and metal nanoparticles (NPs). The sizes of the NCs are comparable to the Fermi wavelength of the conduction electrons, and this renders them to be luminescent in nature. They exhibit size-dependent fluorescence properties spanning almost the entire breath of the visible spectrum. Among all the noble metal NCs being explored, copper NCs (CuNCs) are the most rarely investigated primarily because of their propensity of getting oxidised. In this chapter, we have given a comprehensive understanding as to why these NCs are luminescent in nature. We have also given a detailed overview regarding the various templates used for the synthesis of these CuNCs along with the respective protocols being followed. The various instrumental techniques used to characterize these CuNCs are discussed which provides an in-depth understanding as to how these CuNCs can be properly examined. Finally, we have highlighted some of the most recent applications of these CuNCs which make them unique to serve as the next-generation fluorophores.

Graphical Abstract:

The Graphical Abstract highlights some of the key spectroscopic signatures of the CuNCs and their applications.
Synthesis and characterization of size-controlled atomically precise gold clusters
Authors: Zhang Jiangwei , Li Zhimin , Zheng Kai , Li Gao
Published: August 2018

In this article, synthetic strategies and characterization methodologies of atomically precise gold clusters have been summarized. The typical and effective synthetic strategies including a systematic “size-focusing” methodology has been developed for attaining atomically precise gold clusters with size control. Another universal synthetic methodology is ligand exchange-induced size/structure transformation (LEIST) based on from one stable size to another. These two methodologies have largely expanded the “universe” of atomically precise gold clusters. Elite of typical synthetic case studies of ligand protected gold clusters are presented. Important characterization techniques of these atomically precise gold clusters also are included. The identification and characterization of gold clusters have been achieved in terms of nuclearity (size), molecular formulation, and geometrical structures by the combination of these techniques. The determination of gold cluster structure based on single crystals is of paramount importance in understanding the relationship of structure–property. The criterion and selection of these typical gold clusters are all “strictly” atomically precise that all have been determined ubiquitously by single crystal diffraction. These related crystallographic data are retrieved from Cambridge Crystallographic Data Centre (CCDC) up to 30th November 2017. Meanwhile, the cutting edge and other important characterization methodologies including electron diffraction (ED), extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXFAS), and synchrotron sources are briefly reviewed. The new techniques hold the promise of pushing the limits of crystallization of gold clusters. This article is not just an exhaustive and up to date review, generally summarized synthetic strategies, but also a practical guide regarding gold cluster synthesis. We called it a “Cookbook” of ligand protected gold clusters, including synthetic recipes and characterization details.

Graphical Abstract:
Fundamental principles of battery design
Authors: Zschornak Matthias , Meutzner Falk , Lück Jessica , Latz Arnulf , Leisegang Tilmann , Hanzig Juliane , Nentwich Melanie , Zosel Jens , Balbuena Perla B.
Published: August 2018

With an increasing diversity of electrical energy sources, in particular with respect to the pool of renewable energies, and a growing complexity of electrical energy usage, the need for storage solutions to counterbalance the discrepancy of demand and offer is inevitable. In principle, a battery seems to be a simple device since it just requires three basic components – two electrodes and an electrolyte – in contact with each other. However, only the control of the interplay of these components as well as their dynamics, in particular the chemical reactions, can yield a high-performance system. Moreover, specific aspects such as production costs, weight, material composition and morphology, material criticality, and production conditions, among many others, need to be fulfilled at the same time. They present some of the countless challenges, which make battery design a long-lasting, effortful task. This chapter gives an introduction to the fundamental concepts of batteries. The principles are exemplified for the basic Daniell cell followed by a review of Nernst equation, electrified interface reactions, and ionic transport. The focus is addressed to crystalline materials. A comprehensive discussion of crystal chemical and crystal physical peculiarities reflects favourable and unfavourable local structural aspects from a crystallographic view as well as considerations with respect to electronic structure and bonding. A brief classification of battery types concludes the chapter.
Shape-controlled metal nanoparticles for electrocatalytic applications
Authors: García-Cruz Leticia , Montiel Vicente , Solla-Gullón José
Published: August 2018

The application of shape-controlled metal nanoparticles is profoundly impacting the field of electrocatalysis. On the one hand, their use has remarkably enhanced the electrocatalytic activity of many different reactions of interest. On the other hand, their usage is deeply contributing to a correct understanding of the correlations between shape/surface structure and electrochemical reactivity at the nanoscale. However, from the point of view of an electrochemist, there are a number of questions that must be fully satisfied before the evaluation of the shaped metal nanoparticles as electrocatalysts including (i) surface cleaning, (ii) surface structure characterization, and (iii) correlations between particle shape and surface structure. In this chapter, we will cover all these aspects. Initially, we will collect and discuss about the different practical protocols and procedures for obtaining clean shaped metal nanoparticles. This is an indispensable requirement for the establishment of correct correlations between shape/surface structure and electrochemical reactivity. Next, we will also report how some easy-to-do electrochemical experiments including their subsequent analyses can enormously contribute to a detailed characterization of the surface structure of the shaped metal nanoparticles. At this point, we will remark that the key point determining the resulting electrocatalytic activity is the surface structure of the nanoparticles (obviously, the atomic composition is also extremely relevant) but not the particle shape. Finally, we will summarize some of the most significant advances/results on the use of these shaped metal nanoparticles in electrocatalysis covering a wide range of electrocatalytic reactions including fuel cell-related reactions (electrooxidation of formic acid, methanol and ethanol and oxygen reduction) and also CO2 electroreduction.

Graphical Abstract:
Zinc-Selenium reagents in organic synthesis
Authors: Santi Claudio , Capoccia Lucia , Monti Bonifacio
Published: August 2018

Organoselenolates, due to the high polarizability of the chalcogen atoms, are generally weak bases and soft nucleophiles used to introduce in stereoselective and mild way a selenium functionality through substitution or addition reactions. Among several methods reported for their preparation, recently the reduction of Se-Se or Se-Halogen bond mediated by elemental zinc becomes particularly attractive for the simplicity and the efficiency of the protocols. An overview on the most recent developments in the field is here reported.
Selenium and Tellurium Electrophiles in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Singh Fateh V. , Wirth Thomas
Published: August 2018

This chapter highlights the utility of electrophilic achiral and chiral organoselenium reagents in organic synthesis. A range of reactions from alkene functionalizations, the functionalization of aliphatic and aromatic C–H bonds using stoichiometric and catalytic approaches as well as rearrangement reactions are described. In addition, the utility of organotellurium reagents in organic synthesis is covered in this chapter.
Nanostructured anode materials
Authors: Subrahmanyam Goriparti , Ermanno Miele , Zaccaria Remo Proietti , Claudio Capiglia
Published: August 2018

Throughout the lithium ion battery (LIB) history, since they were mass produced by Sony in 1991, graphite-based materials have been the anode material of choice. There have been enormous efforts to search for ways of tapping higher energy with alternative anode materials to work in LIBs. Yet, those materials have always been subjected to detrimental mechanisms that hinder their applications in LIBs. Will nanotechnology and nanostructured anode materials change the energy storage technologies markedly in the future?
Photocatalysis with nucleic acids and peptides
Authors: Kuhlmann Arthur , Hermann Sergej , Weinberger Michael , Penner Alexander , Wagenknecht Hans-Achim
Published: August 2018

In chemical photocatalysis, the photophysical process is coupled to a subsequent chemical reaction. The absorbed light energy contributes to the overall energy balance of the reaction and thereby increases its sustainability. Additionally, oligonucleotides and oligopeptides offer the possibility to control regio- and stereoselectivity as catalysts of organic reactions by providing potential substrate binding sites. We follow this path and want to explore how important substrate binding sites are for photocatalysis. The general concepts of photochemistry and biooligomer catalysis are combined for photochemically active DNAzymes for [2 + 2]-cycloadditions and proline-rich short peptides for nucleophilic additions to styrenes.
Electrodes: definitions and systematisation – a crystallographers view
Authors: Meutzner Falk , Zschornak Matthias , Nentwich Melanie , Monti Damien , Leisegang Tilmann
Published: August 2018

Electrodes are, in combination with electrolytes and the active, reacting materials the function-giving materials in electrochemical energy storage devices. They are responsible for the transfer of electrons and provide the surface at which the electrochemical reactions take place. Those electrochemical reactions span the potential difference which drives the battery. We present a crystallographically inspired systematisation of all electrodes found in electrochemical storages that comprise inert and reactive electrodes, subdivided in active and passive electrodes, and solvation, mixed crystal, and phase transition electrodes, respectively. After the description of all electrode types we present a concise summary of battery chemistries and the applied electrode types.
Positive electrodes based on Ion-implanted SrTiO3
Authors: Stöber Max , Cherkouk Charaf
Published: August 2018

An O2-electrode was fabricated using a metal ion implanted SrTiO3single crystal. The time resolved oxygen exchange rate of ion implanted strontium titanate (SrTiO3) single crystals was studied by means of oxygen solid electrolyte coulometry (OSEC). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was performed in order to determine structural changes after ion implantation. Moreover, theoretical modelling based on defect chemistry under equilibrium conditions was applied for determining of effective rate constants. OSEC measurements turn out to be a damage and calibration free method, which was used for the first time in order to characterize kinetic parameters of oxygen exchange on single crystalline surfaces.
Online chemical adsorption studies of Hg, Tl, and Pb on SiO2 and Au surfaces in preparation for chemical investigations on Cn, Nh, and Fl at TASCA
Authors: Lens Lotte , Yakushev Alexander , Düllmann Christoph Emanuel , Asai Masato , Ballof Jochen , Block Michael , David Helena May , Despotopulos John , Di Nitto Antonio , Eberhardt Klaus , Even Julia , Götz Michael , Götz Stefan , Haba Hiromitsu , Harkness-Brennan Laura , Heßberger Fritz Peter , Herzberg Rodi D. , Hoffmann Jan , Hübner Annett , Jäger Egon , Judson Daniel , Khuyagbaatar Jadambaa , Kindler Birgit , Komori Yukiko , Konki Joonas , Kratz Jens Volker , Krier Jörg , Kurz Nikolaus , Laatiaoui Mustapha , Lahiri Susanta , Lommel Bettina , Maiti Moumita , Mistry Andrew K. , Mokry Christoph , Moody Ken , Nagame Yuichiro , Omtvedt Jon Petter , Papadakis Philippos , Pershina Valeria , Runke Jörg , Schädel Matthias , Scharrer Paul , Sato Tetsuya , Shaughnessy Dawn , Schausten Brigitta , Thörle-Pospiech Petra , Trautmann Norbert , Tsukada Kazuaki , Uusitalo Juha , Ward Andrew , Wegrzecki Maciej , Wiehl Norbert , Yakusheva Vera
Published: August 2018

Online gas-solid adsorption studies with single-atom quantities of Hg, Tl, and Pb, the lighter homologs of the superheavy elements (SHE) copernicium (Cn, Z=112), nihonium (Nh, Z=113), and flerovium (Fl, Z=114), were carried out using short-lived radioisotopes. The interaction with Au and SiO2 surfaces was studied and the overall chemical yield was determined. Suitable radioisotopes were produced in fusion-evaporation reactions, isolated in the gas-filled recoil separator TASCA, and flushed rapidly to an adjacent setup of two gas chromatography detector arrays covered with SiO2 (first array) and Au (second array). While Tl and Pb adsorbed on the SiO2 surface, Hg interacts only weakly and reached the Au-covered array. Our results contribute to elucidating the influence of relativistic effects on chemical properties of the heaviest elements by providing experimental data on these lighter homologs.
Emerging public health threat of e-waste management: global and Indian perspective
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Yuvaraj , M Vijayageetha , Sakthivel Manikandanesan , Sarveswaran Gokul
Published: August 2018

Background

Electrical and electronic waste or e-waste is emerging as a major public health threat worldwide because of rapid advances in technology leading to the generation of large amount of wastes and a lack of knowledge in handling of these wastes.

Objective

The current review discusses the current e-waste problem worldwide, as a public health concern, with a specific focus on India and recommendations to have effective e-waste management.

Methods

This is a traditional review study. The burden of e-waste, regulations and its impact on health and the environment at the global and country level were identified using various search engines such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus and ScienceDirect. Books, case studies, legislation documents, reports, original articles and other documents from international organizations and specific governmental agency websites were retrieved. In total, 33 original articles, reports, case studies and documents were used for this review.

Results

In 2016, 44.7 million tonnes of e-waste was generated with 2 million tonnes produced in India alone. Out of this, only 20% of the e-waste generated globally was handled properly. The situation is worse in India where more than 90% of the e-waste was handled by informal sector workers. An important problem with the process is that they do not take necessary precautionary measures before handling e-waste. Components which are not suitable for reuse are burnt openly or disposed of through open dumping. Most of the informal sector workers are illiterate making them unaware of the hazardous chemicals that can be released later into the water sources and the environment.

Conclusion

The current review shows that the e-waste poses a serious global public health threat leading to significant environmental and health risks. Most of the developing countries including India were found to be lagging behind in the implementation of environmentally sound formal recycling processes. Hence, a better life cycle assessment model which have been successfully implemented in other developing countries should be introduced in India.
An approximation result and Monte Carlo simulation of the adapted solution of the one-dimensional backward stochastic differential equation
Authors: Sghir A. , Seghir D. , Hadiri S.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we give an approximation result for the
adapted solution of the one-dimensional backward stochastic
differential equation driven by a one-dimensional Brownian motion
(BSDE for short). To prove our main result, we linearize the
generator of the BSDE around a deterministic nominal reference
trajectory by using a Taylor series expansion. We then find an
approximate linear model of the BSDE. A test of our method is given
with a numerical scheme driven by the Monte Carlo simulation. We
believe that our result is new and valid for the multidimensional
case.