bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of the Ultra-Low-Cycle Fatigue Damage of Q345qC Steel and its Weld Joint
Authors: Tian Qin , Zhuge Hanqing , Xie Xu
Published: December 2019

Based on the continuum damage mechanics model (CDM) for monotonic tension, a new CDM for ultra-low-cycle fatigue (ULCF) is put forward to predict ULCF damage of steel and its weld joint under strong earthquakes. The base metal, heat-affected zone and weld metal of Q345qC steel were considered as research objects, and the uniaxial plastic strain threshold of the CDM model was calibrated via tensile testing combined with finite element analysis of notched round bar specimens. ULCF tests of the base metal and weld specimens were carried out to analyse their fatigue life, fracture life and post-fracture path. Based on the calibrated uniaxial plastic strain threshold, the finite element models of base metal and weld specimens suitable for CDM model were established by ABAQUS. The calibration results of material parameters show that the weld metal has the lowest plastic strain threshold and the largest dispersion coefficient at the plastic strain threshold. Prediction results under cyclic loading with a large strain were compared with experimental values, and results showed that the predicted crack initiation and fracture lives of the base metal and weld specimens are lower than their corresponding experimental values. The predicted errors of crack initiation life and fracture life decrease with increasing strain level. The development law of the damage variable reveals exponential growth combined with a stepped pattern. The CDM model can also accurately predict the number of cycles to initial damage. Taking the results together, the CDM of the ULCF of the base metal and weld specimens could successfully predict post-fracture paths.
The Enhanced and Tunable Sustained Release of Pesticides Using Activated Carbon as a Carrier
Authors: Yang Jun , Zang Wanyu , Zhang Zheng , Wang Peng , Yang Qing
Published: December 2019

The sustained release of pesticides improves drug utilization efficiency and reduces their adverse effects. Activated carbon (AC) is an excellent adsorbent and promising soil conditioner. It has a rich, porous structure and thus can store and gradually release drugs. In this study, three AC materials with surface areas ranging from 800–2000 m2/g were used and two types of modified activated carbons were prepared, and their capacity as drug carriers was evaluated by using 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid sodium (2,4-D sodium) as the model pesticide. The preparations were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, nitrogen physical analysis, and zeta potential. The five preparations showed an enhanced and tunable sustained release of drugs. AC1, with the highest specific surface area, possesses the best drug-loading capacity, reaching 679.18 mg/g, but the lowest drug release rate of 32.31% in 96 h. PDA-AC3 has the lowest specific surface area, showing limited drug-loading ability, 82.94 mg/g, but 100% drug release within 72 h. This study suggests that activated carbon has potent applications in agricultural pest control as an inexpensive, effective, controllable, and safe pesticide carrier.
Composite Eco-Friendly Sound Absorbing Materials Made of Recycled Textile Waste and Biopolymers
Authors: Rubino Chiara , Bonet Aracil Marilés , Gisbert-Payá Jaime , Liuzzi Stefania , Stefanizzi Pietro , Zamorano Cantó Manuel , Martellotta Francesco
Published: December 2019

In recent years, the interest in reusing recycled fibers as building materials has been growing as a consequence of their ability to reduce the production of waste and the use of virgin resources, taking advantage of the potential that fibrous materials may offer to improve thermal and acoustic comfort. Composite panels, made of 100% wool waste fibers and bound by means of either a chitosan solution and a gum Arabic solution, were tested and characterized in terms of acoustic and non-acoustic properties. Samples with a 5 cm thickness and different density values were made to investigate the influence of flow resistivity on the final performance. Experimental results demonstrated that the samples had thermal conductivity ranging between 0.049 and 0.060 W/(m K), well comparable to conventional building materials. Similarly, acoustic results were very promising, showing absorption coefficients that, for the given thickness, were generally higher than 0.5 from 500 Hz on, and higher than 0.9 from 1 kHz on. Finally, the effects of the non-acoustic properties and of the air gap behind the samples on the acoustic behavior were also analyzed, proving that the agreement with absorption values predicted by empirical models was also very good.
Graph of Outputs in the Process of Synthesis Directed at CPLDs
Authors: Kubica Marcin , Kania Dariusz
Published: December 2019

The paper focuses on the methodology of designing a cyber physical systems (CPS) physical layer using programmable devices. The CPS physical layer can be implemented in programmable devices, which leads to a reduction in their costs and increases their versatility. One of the groups of programmable devices are complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), which are great for energy-saving, low-cost implementations but requiring flexibility. It becomes necessary to develop mathematical CPS design methods focused on CPLD. This paper presents an original technology mapping method for digital circuits in programmable array logic (PAL)-based CPLDs. The idea is associated with the process of multilevel optimization of circuits dedicated to minimization of the area of a final solution. In the technology mapping process, the method of a multioutput function was used in the graph of outputs form. This method is well known from previous papers and proposes optimization of a basic form of the graph of outputs to enable better use of the resources of a programmable structure. The possibilities for the graph of outputs were expanded in the form of sequential circuits. This work presents a new form of a graph that describes the process of mapping and is known as the graph of excitations and outputs. This graph enables effective technology mapping of sequential circuits. The paper presents a series of experiments that prove the efficiency of the proposed methods for technology mapping. Experiments were conducted for various sizes of PAL-based logic blocks and commercially available CPLDs. The presented results indicate the possibility of more effective implementation of the CPS physical layer.
Tseng Type Methods for Inclusion and Fixed Point Problems with Applications
Authors: Suparatulatorn Raweerote , Khemphet Anchalee
Published: December 2019

An algorithm is introduced to find an answer to both inclusion problems and fixed point problems. This algorithm is a modification of Tseng type methods inspired by Mann’s type iteration and viscosity approximation methods. On certain conditions, the iteration obtained from the algorithm converges strongly. Moreover, applications to the convex feasibility problem and the signal recovery in compressed sensing are considered. Especially, some numerical experiments of the algorithm are demonstrated. These results are compared to those of the previous algorithm.
On Infinitely Many Rational Approximants to ζ(3)
Authors: Arvesú Jorge , Soria-Lorente Anier
Published: December 2019

A set of second order holonomic difference equations was deduced from a set of simultaneous rational approximation problems. Some orthogonal forms involved in the approximation were used to compute the Casorati determinants for its linearly independent solutions. These solutions constitute the numerator and denominator sequences of rational approximants to ζ ( 3 ) . A correspondence from the set of parameters involved in the holonomic difference equation to the set of holonomic bi-sequences formed by these numerators and denominators appears. Infinitely many rational approximants can be generated.
Oscillatory Properties of Third-Order Neutral Delay Differential Equations with Noncanonical Operators
Authors: Chatzarakis George E. , Džurina Jozef , Jadlovská Irena
Published: December 2019

In the paper, we study the oscillatory and asymptotic properties of solutions to a class of third-order linear neutral delay differential equations with noncanonical operators. Via the application of comparison principles with associated first and second-order delay differential inequalities, we offer new criteria for the oscillation of all solutions to a given differential equation. Our technique essentially simplifies the process of investigation and reduces the number of conditions required in previously known results. The strength of the newly obtained results is illustrated on the Euler type equations.
Quantitative Analysis of Microstructure Evolution in Hot-Rolled Multiphase Steel Subjected to Interrupted Tensile Test
Authors: Grajcar Adam , Kozłowska Aleksandra , Radwański Krzysztof , Skowronek Adam
Published: December 2019

A quantitative analysis of the microstructure evolution in thermomechanically processed Si-Al multiphase steel with Nb and Ti microadditions was performed in the study. The tendency of strain-induced martensitic transformation of retained austenite was analyzed during a tensile test interrupted at incremental strain levels. Optical micrographs and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) maps were obtained at each deformation step. The quantitative analysis of the martensitic transformation progress as a function of strain was performed. The results showed that the stability of retained austenite is mostly related to its grain size and morphology. Large, blocky-type grains of retained austenite located in a ferritic matrix easily transformed into martensite during an initial step of straining. The highest mechanical stability showed small austenitic grains and thin layers located in bainitic islands. It was found that the extent of martensitic transformation decreased as the deformation level increased.
Identification and Quantitation of Ursolic and Oleanolic Acids in Ilex aquifolium L. Leaf Extracts Using 13C and 1H-NMR Spectroscopy
Authors: Palu Doreen , Bighelli Ange , Casanova Joseph , Paoli Mathieu
Published: December 2019

Leaves of Ilex aquifolium L. have been used for their therapeutic properties. In previous studies, components contained in the leaves were first isolated by various chromatographic techniques. Then, quantitation of oleanolic and ursolic acids, which are responsible for the biological and therapeutic activities of the plant, was performed by HPLC, HPTLC, and somewhat by GC-MS. Our objective was to develop a simple method that allows the identification of compounds contained in the leaves of Corsican I. aquifolium and to quantify ursolic and oleanolic acids. Leaves were successively extracted with hexane and dichloromethane. The extracts were chromatographed on silica gel and the fractions of column chromatography submitted to 13C-NMR analysis, following a computerized method developed in the laboratory. 13C-NMR allowed the identification of various triterpenes including ursolic acid and oleanolic acid. Quantitation of both acids was achieved, for the first time, by 1H-NMR after validation of the method (accuracy, precision, linearity, limit of detection and limit of quantitation). Ursolic and oleanolic acids accounted for 55.3% and 20.8% of the dichloromethane extract, respectively. This represents 1.3% and 0.5% of the mass of dried leaves. 1H-NMR spectroscopy appeared as a powerful tool for a rapid quantitation of biologically active compounds from I. aquifolium.
Composition of Essential Oils from Roots and Aerial Parts of Carpesium divaricatum, a Traditional Herbal Medicine and Wild Edible Plant from South-East Asia, Grown in Poland
Authors: Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Malarz Janusz , Stojakowska Anna
Published: December 2019

Carpesium divaricatum Sieb. and Zucc. has long been used both as traditional medicine and seasonal food. The most extensively studied specialized metabolites synthesized by the plant are sesquiterpene lactones of germacrane-type. Low-molecular and volatile terpenoids produced by C. divaricatum, however, have never been explored. In this work, compositions of essential oils distilled from roots and shoots of C. divaricatum plants, cultivated either in the open field or in the glasshouse have been studied by GC-MS-FID supported by NMR spectroscopy. The analyses led to the identification of 145 compounds in all, 112 of which were localized in aerial parts and 80 in roots of the plants grown in the open field. Moreover, remarkable differences in composition of oils produced by aerial and underground parts of C. divaricatum have been observed. The major volatiles found in the shoots were: α-pinene (40%), nerol (4%) and neryl-isobutyrate (3%), whereas predominant components of the root oil were 10-isobutyryloxy-8,9-epoxythymyl-isobutyrate (29%), thymyl-isobutyrate (6%) and 9-isobutyryloxythymyl-isobutyrate (6%). In the analyzed oils, seventeen thymol derivatives were identified. Among them eight compounds were specific for roots. Roots of the plants cultivated in the glasshouse were, in general, a poor source of essential oil in comparison with those of the plants grown in the open field. Chemophenetic relationships with other taxa of the Inuleae-Inulineae were also briefly discussed.
Optimizing Water-Based Extraction of Bioactive Principles of Hawthorn: From Experimental Laboratory Research to Homemade Preparations
Authors: Ngoc Phu Cao , Leclercq Laurent , Rossi Jean-Christophe , Desvignes Isabelle , Hertzog Jasmine , Fabiano-Tixier Anne-Sylvie , Chemat Farid , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Cottet Hervé
Published: December 2019

Hawthorn (Crataegus) is used for its cardiotonic, hypotensive, vasodilative, sedative, antiatherosclerotic, and antihyperlipidemic properties. One of the main goals of this work was to find a well-defined optimized extraction protocol usable by each of us that would lead to repeatable, controlled, and quantified daily uptake of active components from hawthorn at a drinkable temperature (below 60 °C). A thorough investigation of the extraction mode in water (infusion, maceration, percolation, ultrasounds, microwaves) on the yield of extraction and the amount of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidin oligomers as well as on the Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (UHPLC) profiles of the extracted compounds was carried out. High-resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry was also implemented to discriminate the different samples and conditions of extraction. The quantitative and qualitative aspects of the extraction as well as the kinetics of extraction were studied, not only according to the part (flowers or leaves), the state (fresh or dried), and the granulometry of the dry plant, but also the stirring speed, the temperature, the extraction time, the volume of the container (cup, mug or bowl) and the use of infusion bags.
Nickel-Doped Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles: Green Synthesis Using Stevia and Protective Effect against Harmful Ultraviolet Rays
Authors: Khatami Mehrdad , Sarani Mina , Mosazadeh Faride , Rajabalipour Mohammadreza , Izadi Alireza , Abdollahpour-Alitappeh Meghdad , Lima Nobre Marcos Augusto , Borhani Fariba
Published: December 2019

Nanoparticles of cerium oxide CeO2 are important nanomaterials with remarkable properties for use in both industrial and non-industrial fields. In a general way, doping of oxide nanometric with transition metals improves the properties of nanoparticles. In this study, nickel- doped cerium oxide nanoparticles were synthesized from Stevia rebaudiana extract. Both doped and non-doped nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray, Raman spectroscopy, and Vibrating-Sample Magnetometry analysis. According to X-ray diffraction, Raman and Energy Dispersive X-ray crystalline and single phase of CeO2 and Ni doped CeO2 nanoparticles exhibiting fluorite structure with F2g mode were synthesized. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy shows that CeO2 and Ni doped nanoparticles have spherical shape and sizes ranging of 8 to 10 nm. Ni doping of CeO2 results in an increasing of magnetic properties. The enhancement of ultraviolet protector character via Ni doping of CeO2 is also discussed.
PET and Active Coating Based on a LDH Nanofiller Hosting p-Hydroxybenzoate and Food-Grade Zeolites: Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Packaging and Shelf Life of Red Meat
Authors: Bugatti Valeria , Vertuccio Luigi , Zuppardi Federica , Vittoria Vittoria , Gorrasi Giuliana
Published: December 2019

Layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanofillers were considered as hosts of p-hydroxybenzoate as an antimicrobial molecule for active coating. A food grade resin with LDH-p-hydroxybenzoate and two different types of food grade zeolites was used to prepare active coatings for Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) trays. The release kinetics of the active molecule were followed using UV spectrophotometry and the experimental results were analyzed with the Gallagher–Corrigan model. The thermal properties of the coating mixtures and the PET coating were analyzed and found to be dependent on the coating’s composition. On the basis of CO2 transmission rate and off-odors tests, the best coating composition was selected. Global migration in ethanol (10% v/v), acetic acid (3% w/v), and vegetable oil, and specific migration of p-hydroxybenzoic acid revealed the suitability of the material for food contact. Antimicrobial tests on the packaging demonstrated a good inhibition against Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter jejuni. Red meat was packed into the selected active materials and results were compared to uncoated PET packaging. Color tests (browning of the meat) and analysis of Enterobacteriaceae spp. and total viable count evolution up to 10 days of storage demonstrated the capability of the considered active packaging in prolonging the shelf life of red meat.
An Isocaloric Nordic Diet Modulates RELA and TNFRSF1A Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome—A SYSDIET Sub-Study
Authors: Ulven Stine M. , Holven Kirsten B. , Rundblad Amanda , Myhrstad Mari C. W. , Leder Lena , Dahlman Ingrid , Mello Vanessa D. de , Schwab Ursula , Carlberg Carsten , Pihlajamäki Jussi , Hermansen Kjeld , Dragsted Lars O. , Gunnarsdottir Ingibjörg , Cloetens Lieselotte , Åkesson Björn , Rosqvist Fredrik , Hukkanen Janne , Herzig Karl-Heinz , Savolainen Markku J , Risérus Ulf , Thorsdottir Inga , Poutanen Kaisa S , Arner Peter , Uusitupa Matti , Kolehmainen Marjukka
Published: December 2019

A healthy dietary pattern is associated with a lower risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and reduced inflammation. To explore this at the molecular level, we investigated the effect of a Nordic diet (ND) on changes in the gene expression profiles of inflammatory and lipid-related genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of individuals with MetS. We hypothesized that the intake of an ND compared to a control diet (CD) would alter the expression of inflammatory genes and genes involved in lipid metabolism. The individuals with MetS underwent an 18/24-week randomized intervention to compare a ND with a CD. Eighty-eight participants (66% women) were included in this sub-study of the larger SYSDIET study. Fasting PBMCs were collected before and after the intervention and changes in gene expression levels were measured using TaqMan Array Micro Fluidic Cards. Forty-eight pre-determined inflammatory and lipid related gene transcripts were analyzed. The expression level of the gene tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily member 1A (TNFRSF1A) was down-regulated (p = 0.004), whereas the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) subunit, RELA proto-oncogene, was up-regulated (p = 0.016) in the ND group compared to the CD group. In conclusion, intake of an ND in individuals with the MetS may affect immune function.
Association of DASH and Depressive Symptoms with BMI over Adulthood in Racially and Socioeconomically Diverse Adults Examined in the HANDLS Study
Authors: Fanelli Kuczmarski Marie , Hossain Sharmin , Beydoun May A. , Maldonando Ana , Evans Michele K. , Zonderman Alan B.
Published: December 2019

Adherence to the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is linked to slower weight gain over time. Elevated depressive symptoms may lead to poor quality diets, potentially increasing Body Mass Index (BMI). This study explored these pathways using longitudinal data extracted from 1201–1458 Healthy Aging in Neighborhoods of Diversity across the Life Span (HANDLS) study participants. DASH mean score was computed using four 24 h recalls [visits(v)1 + v2/2: 2004–2013] and depressive symptoms using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale (v1 + v2/2: 2004–2013). BMI was measured at v2: 2009–2013 and v3: 2013–2017. Multiple linear mixed regression and mediation modeling were conducted, linking CES-D(mean) and DASH(mean) to BMI [v2 and annualized change ΔBMI (v3-v2)] and exploring mediation of the CES-D(mean)–BMI(v3) and DASH(mean)–BMI(v3) associations through DASH(mean) and CES-D(mean), respectively. Models were further stratified by sex, race and poverty status. Inverse cross-sectional and longitudinal relationships of DASH(mean) with BMI(v2) and ΔBMI were detected, mainly in women and <125% of poverty participants. CES-D(mean) was not associated with BMI(v3); no mediation was detected through DASH(mean) in all socio-demographic strata. Moreover, the inverse DASH(mean)–BMI(v3) total effect was not mediated through CES-D(mean). Future studies should explore other pathways aside from depressive symptoms by which DASH can have a preventive effect on weight status over time.
Oral Administration of Okara Soybean By-Product Attenuates Cognitive Impairment in a Mouse Model of Accelerated Aging
Authors: Corpuz Henry M. , Arimura Misa , Chawalitpong Supatta , Miyazaki Keiko , Sawaguchi Makoto , Nakamura Soichiro , Katayama Shigeru
Published: December 2019

The microbiota–gut–brain axis has attracted increasing attention in the last decade. Here, we investigated whether okara, a soybean by-product rich in dietary fiber, can attenuate cognitive impairment in senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) mice by altering gut microbial composition. Mice were fed either a standard diet, or a diet containing okara (7.5% or 15%, w/w) for 26 weeks. In the memory test, the 7.5% okara-fed mice showed a longer step-through latency and the 15% okara-fed mice had a short escape latency compared with control mice. The 15% okara-fed mice displayed decreased body weight, increased fecal weight, and altered cecal microbiota composition compared with the control group; however, there was no significant difference in the serum lactic acid and butyric acid levels among these mice groups. The 7.5% okara-fed mice had significantly higher NeuN intensity in the hippocampus compared with control mice. Furthermore, a decrease in inflammatory cytokine TNF-α and an increase in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was observed in the 7.5% okara-fed group. The expression of synthesizing enzyme of acetylcholine was increased by the okara diets, and the acetylcholine level in the brain was higher in the 7.5% okara-fed group than in the control. These suggest that oral administration of okara could delay cognitive decline without drastically changing gut microbiota.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans Core and Accessory Genes in Different Growth Conditions
Authors: Tjokro Natalia O. , Kittichotirat Weerayuth , Torittu Annamari , Ihalin Riikka , Bumgarner Roger E. , Chen Casey
Published: December 2019

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans genome can be divided into an accessory gene pool (found in some but not all strains) and a core gene pool (found in all strains). The functions of the accessory genes (genomic islands and non-island accessory genes) are largely unknown. We hypothesize that accessory genes confer critical functions for A. actinomycetemcomitans in vivo. This study examined the expression patterns of accessory and core genes of A. actinomycetemcomitans in distinct growth conditions. We found similar expression patterns of island and non-island accessory genes, which were generally lower than the core genes in all growth conditions. The median expression levels of genomic islands were 29%–37% of the core genes in enriched medium but elevated to as high as 63% of the core genes in nutrient-limited media. Several putative virulence genes, including the cytolethal distending toxin operon, were found to be activated in nutrient-limited conditions. In conclusion, genomic islands and non-island accessory genes exhibited distinct patterns of expression from the core genes and may play a role in the survival of A. actinomycetemcomitans in nutrient-limited environments.
PLGA-BMP-2 and PLA-17β-Estradiol Microspheres Reinforcing a Composite Hydrogel for Bone Regeneration in Osteoporosis
Authors: García-García Patricia , Reyes Ricardo , Segredo-Morales Elisabet , Pérez-Herrero Edgar , Delgado Araceli , Évora Carmen
Published: December 2019

The controlled release of active substances—bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and 17β-estradiol—is one of the main aspects to be taken into account to successfully regenerate a tissue defect. In this study, BMP-2- and 17β-estradiol-loaded microspheres were combined in a sandwich-like system formed by a hydrogel core composed of chitosan (CHT) collagen, 2-hidroxipropil γ-ciclodextrin (HP-γ-CD), nanoparticles of hydroxyapatite (nano-HAP), and an electrospun mesh shell prepared with two external electrospinning films for the regeneration of a critical bone defect in osteoporotic rats. Microspheres were made with poly-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) to encapsulate BMP-2, whereas the different formulations of 17β-estradiol were prepared with poly-lactic acid (PLA) and PLGA. The in vitro and in vivo BMP-2 delivered from the system fitted a biphasic profile. Although the in vivo burst effect was higher than in vitro the second phases (lasted up to 6 weeks) were parallel, the release rate ranged between 55 and 70 ng/day. The in vitro release kinetics of the 17β-estradiol dissolved in the polymeric matrix of the microspheres depended on the partition coefficient. The 17β-estradiol was slowly released from the core system using an aqueous release medium (Deff = 5.58·10−16 ± 9.81·10−17m2s−1) and very fast in MeOH-water (50:50). The hydrogel core system was injectable, and approximately 83% of the loaded dose is uniformly discharged through a 20G needle. The system placed in the defect was easily adapted to the defect shape and after 12 weeks approximately 50% of the defect was refilled by new tissue. None differences were observed between the osteoporotic and non-osteoporotic groups. Despite the role of 17β-estradiol on the bone remodeling process, the obtained results in this study suggest that the observed regeneration was only due to the controlled rate released of BMP-2 from the PLGA microspheres.
Proposal of a Computational Approach for Simulating Thermal Bosonic Fields in Phase Space
Authors: Sergi Alessandro , Grimaudo Roberto , Hanna Gabriel , Messina Antonino
Published: December 2019

When a quantum field is in contact with a thermal bath, the vacuum state of the field may be generalized to a thermal vacuum state, which takes into account the thermal noise. In thermo field dynamics, this is realized by doubling the dimensionality of the Fock space of the system. Interestingly, the representation of thermal noise by means of an augmented space is also found in a distinctly different approach based on the Wigner transform of both the field operators and density matrix, which we pursue here. Specifically, the thermal noise is introduced by augmenting the classical-like Wigner phase space by means of Nosé–Hoover chain thermostats, which can be readily simulated on a computer. In this paper, we illustrate how this may be achieved and discuss how non-equilibrium quantum thermal distributions of the field modes can be numerically simulated.
The Effects of Inorganic Salts with Different Anions on the Structure and Properties of Starch/Poly (Butylene Succinate) Blends Plasticized with Ionic Liquid
Authors: Zhao Zhixin , Lei Bei , Du Wenhao , Zhang Xi
Published: December 2019

1-butyl-3-methylimidazole chloride ((BMIM) Cl) modified starch/poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) blends with different anions of inorganic salts were prepared by HAAKE mixer. The compatibility and thermal behaviors including crystallinity, crystallization and melting temperature, thermal stability and mechanical properties were systematically investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that inorganic salts can produce a strong interaction with starch/PBS blends, which can improve the mechanical properties of starch/PBS blends, enhance the mechanical strength and elongation at break of starch/PBS blends, meanwhile, the thermal stability of starch/PBS blends decreased. The SEM images reveal that the compatibility of starch/PBS become better with the increase of inorganic salts. The melting and crystallization absorption peaks in the DSC curves show that the melting enthalpy (ΔHm), crystallinity (Xc), and crystallization temperature (Tc) of the blends decrease and the cold crystallization temperature (Tcc) increase when inorganic salts is added. Moreover, inorganic salts with smaller anionic radius have much better effects on the starch/PBS blends plasticized with ((BMIM)Cl).
A Multi-Channel Algorithm for Mapping Volcanic Thermal Anomalies by Means of Sentinel-2 MSI and Landsat-8 OLI Data
Authors: Marchese Francesco , Genzano Nicola , Neri Marco , Falconieri Alfredo , Mazzeo Giuseppe , Pergola Nicola
Published: December 2019

The Multispectral Instrument (MSI) and the Operational Land Imager (OLI), respectively onboard Sentinel-2A/2B and Landsat 8 satellites, thanks to their features especially in terms of spatial/spectral resolution, represents two important instruments for investigating thermal volcanic activity from space. In this study, we used data from those sensors to test an original multichannel algorithm, which aims at mapping volcanic thermal anomalies at a global scale. The algorithm, named Normalized Hotspot Indices (NHI), combines two normalized indices, analyzing near infrared (NIR) and short wave infrared (SWIR) radiances, to identify hotspot pixels in daylight conditions. Results, achieved studying a number of active volcanoes located in different geographic areas and characterized by a different eruptive behavior, demonstrated the NHI capacity in mapping both subtle and more intense volcanic thermal anomalies despite some limitations (e.g., missed detections because of clouds/volcanic plumes). In addition, the study shows that the performance of NHI might be further increased using some additional spectral/spatial tests, in view of a possible usage of this algorithm within a known multi-temporal scheme of satellite data analysis. The low processing times and the straight forth exportability to data from other sensors make NHI, which is sensitive even to other high temperature sources, suited for mapping hot volcanic targets integrating information provided by current and well-established satellite-based volcanoes monitoring systems.
The July/August 2019 Lava Flows at the Sciara del Fuoco, Stromboli–Analysis from Multi-Sensor Infrared Satellite Imagery
Authors: Plank Simon , Marchese Francesco , Filizzola Carolina , Pergola Nicola , Neri Marco , Nolde Michael , Martinis Sandro
Published: December 2019

On 3 July 2019 a rapid sequence of paroxysmal explosions at the summit craters of Stromboli (Aeolian-Islands, Italy) occurred, followed by a period of intense Strombolian and effusive activity in July, and continuing until the end of August 2019. We present a joint analysis of multi-sensor infrared satellite imagery to investigate this eruption episode. Data from the Spinning-Enhanced-Visible-and-InfraRed-Imager (SEVIRI) was used in combination with those from the Multispectral-Instrument (MSI), the Operational-Land-Imager (OLI), the Advanced-Very High-Resolution-Radiometer (AVHRR), and the Visible-Infrared-Imaging-Radiometer-Suite (VIIRS). The analysis of infrared SEVIRI-data allowed us to detect eruption onset and to investigate short-term variations of thermal volcanic activity, providing information in agreement with that inferred by nighttime-AVHRR-observations. By using Sentinel-2-MSI and Landsat-8-OLI imagery, we better localized the active lava-flows. The latter were quantitatively characterized using infrared VIIRS-data, estimating an erupted lava volume of 6.33 × 10 6 ± 3.17 × 10 6 m3 and a mean output rate of 1.26 ± 0.63 m3/s for the July/August 2019 eruption period. The estimated mean-output-rate was higher than the ones in the 2002–2003 and 2014 Stromboli effusive eruptions, but was lower than in the 2007-eruption. These results confirmed that a multi-sensor-approach might provide a relevant contribution to investigate, monitor and characterize thermal volcanic activity in high-risk areas.
Next Generation Mapping: Combining Deep Learning, Cloud Computing, and Big Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Parente Leandro , Taquary Evandro , Silva Ana , Souza Carlos , Ferreira Laerte
Published: December 2019

The rapid growth of satellites orbiting the planet is generating massive amounts of data for Earth science applications. Concurrently, state-of-the-art deep-learning-based algorithms and cloud computing infrastructure have become available with a great potential to revolutionize the image processing of satellite remote sensing. Within this context, this study evaluated, based on thousands of PlanetScope images obtained over a 12-month period, the performance of three machine learning approaches (random forest, long short-term memory-LSTM, and U-Net). We applied these approaches to mapped pasturelands in a Central Brazil region. The deep learning algorithms were implemented using TensorFlow, while the random forest utilized the Google Earth Engine platform. The accuracy assessment presented F1 scores for U-Net, LSTM, and random forest of, respectively, 96.94%, 98.83%, and 95.53% in the validation data, and 94.06%, 87.97%, and 82.57% in the test data, indicating a better classification efficiency using the deep learning approaches. Although the use of deep learning algorithms depends on a high investment in calibration samples and the generalization of these methods requires further investigations, our results suggest that the neural network architectures developed in this study can be used to map large geographic regions that consider a wide variety of satellite data (e.g., PlanetScope, Sentinel-2, Landsat-8).
Computer-Aided Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis Using a Support Vector Machine and Optical Coherence Tomography Features
Authors: Cavaliere Carlo , Vilades Elisa , Alonso-Rodríguez Mª , Rodrigo María , Pablo Luis , Miguel Juan , López-Guillén Elena , Morla Eva , Boquete Luciano , Garcia-Martin Elena
Published: December 2019

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the feasibility of diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) data and a support vector machine (SVM) as an automatic classifier. Forty-eight MS patients without symptoms of optic neuritis and forty-eight healthy control subjects were selected. Swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) was performed using a DRI (deep-range imaging) Triton OCT device (Topcon Corp., Tokyo, Japan). Mean values (right and left eye) for macular thickness (retinal and choroidal layers) and peripapillary area (retinal nerve fibre layer, retinal, ganglion cell layer—GCL, and choroidal layers) were compared between both groups. Based on the analysis of the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC), the 3 variables with the greatest discriminant capacity were selected to form the feature vector. A SVM was used as an automatic classifier, obtaining the confusion matrix using leave-one-out cross-validation. Classification performance was assessed with Matthew’s correlation coefficient (MCC) and the AUCCLASSIFIER. The most discriminant variables were found to be the total GCL++ thickness (between inner limiting membrane to inner nuclear layer boundaries), evaluated in the peripapillary area and macular retina thickness in the nasal quadrant of the outer and inner rings. Using the SVM classifier, we obtained the following values: MCC = 0.81, sensitivity = 0.89, specificity = 0.92, accuracy = 0.91, and AUCCLASSIFIER = 0.97. Our findings suggest that it is possible to classify control subjects and MS patients without previous optic neuritis by applying machine-learning techniques to study the structural neurodegeneration in the retina.
A Novel Framework with High Diagnostic Sensitivity for Lung Cancer Detection by Electronic Nose
Authors: Lu Binchun , Fu Lidan , Nie Bo , Peng Zhiyun , Liu Hongying
Published: December 2019

The electronic nose (e-nose) system is a newly developing detection technology for its advantages of non-invasiveness, simple operation, and low cost. However, lung cancer screening through e-nose requires effective pattern recognition frameworks. Existing frameworks rely heavily on hand-crafted features and have relatively low diagnostic sensitivity. To handle these problems, gated recurrent unit based autoencoder (GRU-AE) is adopted to automatically extract features from temporal and high-dimensional e-nose data. Moreover, we propose a novel margin and sensitivity based ordering ensemble pruning (MSEP) model for effective classification. The proposed heuristic model aims to reduce missed diagnosis rate of lung cancer patients while maintaining a high rate of overall identification. In the experiments, five state-of-the-art classification models and two popular dimensionality reduction methods were involved for comparison to demonstrate the validity of the proposed GRU-AE-MSEP framework, through 214 collected breath samples measured by e-nose. Experimental results indicated that the proposed intelligent framework achieved high sensitivity of 94.22%, accuracy of 93.55%, and specificity of 92.80%, thereby providing a new practical means for wide disease screening by e-nose in medical scenarios.
Evaluation of the Influence of Individual Clay Minerals on Biochar Carbon Mineralization in Soils
Authors: Zhang Qingzhong , Keitel Claudia , Singh Balwant
Published: December 2019

Although association between mineral and biochar carbon have been speculated in some studies, still there is no direct evidence for the influence of individual clay minerals on the mineralization of biochar carbon in soils. To address this, we conducted an incubation study using monomineralic soils constituted by separately mixing pure minerals, i.e., smectite, kaolinite, and goethite, with a sandy soil. Switch grass biochar (400 °C) was added to the artificial soils and samples were incubated for 90 days at 20 °C in the laboratory. The CO2-C mineralized from the control, and biochar amended soil was captured in NaOH traps and the proportion of C mineralized from biochar was determined using δ13C isotopic analysis. The clay minerals significantly decreased the cumulative total carbon mineralized during the incubation period, whereas biochar had no effect on this. The least amount of total C was mineralized in the presence of goethite and biochar amended soil, where only 0.6% of the native soil organic carbon (SOC) (compared to 4.14% in control) and 2.9% of the biochar-C was mineralized during the 90 days incubation period. Native SOC mineralization was significantly reduced in the presence of biochar and the three minerals. Goethite was most effective in stabilizing both biochar and the native soil organic carbon. The short-term data from this study demonstrate that biochar application in Fe oxide rich soils may be an effective strategy to sequester biochar carbon, as well as to stabilize native soil carbon.
Impact of Residential Self-Selection on Low-Carbon Behavior: Evidence from Zhengzhou, China
Authors: Zhang Jingfei , Zhang Lijun , Qin Yaochen , Wang Xia , Zheng Zhicheng
Published: December 2019

Current resident lifestyles pose a significant threat to urban sustainable development. Therefore, low-carbon behavior is receiving increasing attention from scholars and policy makers. Ascertaining residential self-selection is essential in order to study the relationship between the built environment and travel behavior. While several studies have explored the relationship between the urban form, socioeconomic factors, and travel behavior, only a few of them have studied the impact of self-selection on household energy consumption and other forms of consumption, which are also contribute to household carbon emissions. Using large-scale field surveys of 1,485 households and high-resolution images, sourced from Google Maps in 2018, of Zhengzhou city, the present study estimated the low-carbon level of three kinds of behavior: daily energy use at home, daily travel, and daily consumption. The study investigated the influence factors on low-carbon behavior using the hierarchical linear model. We found that residential self-selection impacts both energy use and daily travel. Residents in some built environments consumed less energy at home and contributed less CO2 emissions through daily travel than others. In particular, individual-level variables significantly affected the low-carbon energy use behavior. The female, elderly, highly educated, married, and working-class residents with children had higher levels of low-carbon energy use. Community-level variables significantly affected the level of low-carbon travel and low-carbon consumption. If residents lived in areas with high density, mixed land use, and high accessibility, their travel mode and consumption behavior would entail low carbon emissions. There is a relationship between individual variables and community variables. Different individual attributes living in the same built environment have different impacts on low-carbon behaviors.
Monitoring Jovian Orbital Resonances of a Spacecraft: Classical and Relativistic Effects
Authors: Acedo Luis
Published: December 2019

Orbital resonances continue to be one of the most difficult problems in celestial mechanics. They have been studied in connection with the so-called Kirkwood gaps in the asteroid belt for many years. On the other hand, resonant trans-Neptunian objects are also an active area of research in Solar System dynamics, as are the recently discovered resonances in extrasolar planetary systems. A careful monitoring of the trajectories of these objects is hindered by the small size of asteroids or the large distances of the trans-Neptunian bodies. In this paper, we propose a mission concept, called CHRONOS (after the greek god of time), in which a spacecraft could be sent to with the initial condition of resonance with Jupiter in order to study the future evolution of its trajectory. We show that radio monitoring of these trajectories could allow for a better understanding of the initial stages of the evolution of resonant trajectories and the associated relativistic effects.
Quantification of Groundwater Exploitation and Assessment of Water Quality Risk Perception in the Dar Es Salaam Quaternary Aquifer, Tanzania
Authors: Mussa Kassim , Mjemah Ibrahimu , Walraevens Kristine
Published: December 2019

This study quantified groundwater exploitation and assessed water quality risk perception in the Dar es Salaam quaternary aquifer through a socio-economic survey. Annual total groundwater exploitation was estimated, using the daily per capita consumption of groundwater derived from the household survey. A logistic regression analysis was performed to ascertain the influence of sex, marital status, education level, employment, income, and cost of water on groundwater quality risk perception. It was revealed that most residents of Dar es Salaam use groundwater as a main source of water supply. The results of this study further showed that 78% consider groundwater as a reliable source. Averting strategies for insufficient quantity of groundwater consist of minimizing less necessary water uses, while for poor quality, buying bottled water and water treatment by boiling and using chemicals. The chance for water quality risk perception is 0.205 times greater for married than unmarried household heads, and it is 623 times higher for employed versus unemployed household heads. To get an overall view of the importance of groundwater for domestic needs in Dar es Salaam it is imperative to combine a time series data of groundwater and surface water exploitation.
Potential of A Trait-Based Approach in the Characterization of An N-Contaminated Alluvial Aquifer
Authors: Di Lorenzo Tiziana , Murolo Alessandro , Fiasca Barbara , Tabilio Di Camillo Agostina , Di Cicco Mattia , Galassi Diana Maria Paola
Published: December 2019

Groundwater communities residing in contaminated aquifers have been investigated mainly through taxonomy-based approaches (i.e., analyzing taxonomic richness and abundances) while ecological traits have been rarely considered. The aim of this study was to assess whether a trait analysis adds value to the traditional taxonomy-based biomonitoring in N-contaminated aquifers. To this end, we monitored 40 bores in the Vomano alluvial aquifer (VO_GWB, Italy) for two years. The aquifer is a nitrate vulnerable zone according to the Water Framework Directive. The traditional taxonomy-based approach revealed an unexpectedly high biodiversity (38 taxa and 5725 individuals), dominated by crustaceans, comparable to that of other unpolluted alluvial aquifers worldwide. This result is in contrast with previous studies and calls into question the sensitivity of stygobiotic species to N-compounds. The trait analysis provided an added value to the study, unveiling signs of impairments of the groundwater community such as low juveniles-to-adults and males-to-females ratios and a crossover of biomasses and abundances curves suggestive of an intermediate alteration of the copepod assemblages.