bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Mechanical and Electrical Properties of Elastic Textile/Polymer Composites for Stretchable Electronics at Quasi-Static or Cyclic Mechanical Loads
Authors: Dils Christian , Werft Lukas , Walter Hans , Zwanzig Michael , Krshiwoblozki Malte von , Schneider-Ramelow Martin
Published: November 2019

In the last decade, interest in stretchable electronic systems that can be bent or shaped three-dimensionally has increased. The application of these systems is that they differentiate between two states and derive there from the requirements for the materials used: once formed, but static or permanently flexible. For this purpose, new materials that exceed the limited mechanical properties of thin metal layers as the typical printed circuit board conductor materials have recently gained the interest of research. In this work, novel electrically conductive textiles were used as conductor materials for stretchable circuit boards. Three different fabrics (woven, knitted and nonwoven) made of silver-plated polyamide fibers were investigated for their mechanical and electrical behavior under quasi-static and cyclic mechanical loads with simultaneous monitoring of the electrical resistance. Thereto, the electrically conductive textiles were embedded into a thermoplastic polyurethane dielectric matrix and structured by laser cutting into stretchable conductors. Based on the characterization of the mechanical and electrical material behavior, a life expectancy was derived. The results are compared with previously investigated stretchable circuit boards based on thermoplastic elastomer and meander-shaped conductor tracks made of copper foils. The microstructural changes in the material caused by the applied mechanical loads were analyzed and are discussed in detail to provide a deep understanding of failure mechanisms.
Effect of Carboxymethylation and Phosphorylation on the Properties of Polysaccharides from Sepia esculenta Ink: Antioxidation and Anticoagulation in Vitro
Authors: Liu Huazhong , Li Fangping , Luo Ping
Published: November 2019

To investigate the effect of carboxymethylation and phosphorylation modification on Sepia esculenta ink polysaccharide (SIP) properties, this study prepared carboxymethyl SIP (CSIP) with the chloracetic acid method, and phosphorylated SIP (PSIP) with the sodium trimetaphosphate (STMP)/sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) method, on the basis of an orthogonal experiment. The in vitro antioxidant and anticoagulant activities of the derivatives were determined by assessing the scavenging capacity of the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydroxyl radicals, which activated the partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), and thrombin time (TT). The results showed that SIP was modified successfully to be CSIP and PSIP, and degrees of substitution (DSs) of the two products were 0.9913 and 0.0828, respectively. Phosphorylation efficiently improved the antioxidant property of SIP, and the IC50 values of PSIP on DPPH and hydroxyl radicals decreased by 63.25% and 13.77%, respectively. But carboxymethylation reduced antioxidant activity of the native polysaccharide, IC50 values of CSIP on the DPPH and hydroxyl radicals increased by 16.74% and 6.89%, respectively. SIP significantly prolonged the APTT, PT, and TT in a dose-dependent fashion, suggesting that SIP played an anticoagulant action through intrinsic, extrinsic, and common coagulation pathways. CSIP and PSIP both possessed a stronger anticoagulant capacity than SIP via the same pathways; moreover, CSIP was observed to be more effective in prolonging APTT and PT than PSIP.
Acute Kidney Injury in Pediatric Patients on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Hansrivijit Panupong , Lertjitbanjong Ploypin , Thongprayoon Charat , Cheungpasitporn Wisit , Aeddula Narothama , Salim Sohail , Chewcharat Api , Watthanasuntorn Kanramon , Srivali Narat , Mao Michael , Ungprasert Patompong , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Kaewput Wisit , Bathini Tarun
Published: November 2019

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a well-established complication of extra-corporal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in the adult population. The data in the pediatric and neonatal population is still limited. Moreover, the mortality risk of AKI among pediatric patients requiring ECMO remains unclear. Thus, this meta-analysis aims to assess the incidence of AKI, AKI requiring renal replacement therapy and AKI associated mortality in pediatric/neonatal patients requiring ECMO. Methods: A literature search was performed utilizing MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Database from inception through June 2019. We included studies that evaluated the incidence of AKI, severe AKI requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) and the risk of mortality among pediatric patients on ECMO with AKI. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to calculate the pooled incidence of AKI and the odds ratios (OR) for mortality. Results: 13 studies with 3523 pediatric patients on ECMO were identified. Pooled incidence of AKI and AKI requiring RRT were 61.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 39.0–80.4%) and 40.9% (95%CI: 31.2–51.4%), respectively. A meta-analysis limited to studies with standard AKI definitions showed a pooled estimated AKI incidence of 69.2% (95%CI: 59.7–77.3%). Compared with patients without AKI, those with AKI and AKI requiring RRT while on ECMO were associated with increased hospital mortality ORs of 1.70 (95% CI, 1.38–2.10) and 3.64 (95% CI: 2.02–6.55), respectively. Conclusions: The estimated incidence of AKI and severe AKI requiring RRT in pediatric patients receiving ECMO are high at 61.9% and 40.9%, respectively. AKI among pediatric patients on ECMO is significantly associated with reduced patient survival.
Microstructures and Hardness Prediction of an Ultrafine-Grained Al-2024 Alloy
Authors: Chen Ying , Tang Yuanchen , Zhang Houan , Hu Nan , Gao Nong , Starink Marco J.
Published: November 2019

High-pressure torsion (HPT) is a high efficiency processing method for fabricating bulk ultrafine-grained metallic materials. This work investigates microstructures and evaluates the corresponding strengthening components in the center of HPT disks, where effective shear strains are very low. An Al-4.63Cu-1.51Mg (wt. %) alloy was processed by HPT for 5 rotations. Non-equilibrium grain and sub-grain boundaries were observed using scanning transmission electron microscopy in the center area of HPT disks. Solute co-cluster segregation at grain boundaries was found by energy dispersive spectrometry. Quantitative analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns showed that the average microstrain, crystalline size, and dislocation density were (1.32 ± 0.07) × 10−3, 61.9 ± 1.4 nm, and (2.58 ± 0.07) × 1014 m−2, respectively. The ultra-high average hardness increment was predicted on multiple mechanisms due to ultra-high dislocation densities, grain refinement, and co-cluster–defect complexes.
A Comprehensive Review on Medicinal Plants as Antimicrobial Therapeutics: Potential Avenues of Biocompatible Drug Discovery
Authors: Anand Uttpal , Jacobo-Herrera Nadia , Altemimi Ammar , Lakhssassi Naoufal
Published: November 2019

The war on multidrug resistance (MDR) has resulted in the greatest loss to the world’s economy. Antibiotics, the bedrock, and wonder drug of the 20th century have played a central role in treating infectious diseases. However, the inappropriate, irregular, and irrational uses of antibiotics have resulted in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. This has resulted in an increased interest in medicinal plants since 30–50% of current pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals are plant-derived. The question we address in this review is whether plants, which produce a rich diversity of secondary metabolites, may provide novel antibiotics to tackle MDR microbes and novel chemosensitizers to reclaim currently used antibiotics that have been rendered ineffective by the MDR microbes. Plants synthesize secondary metabolites and phytochemicals and have great potential to act as therapeutics. The main focus of this mini-review is to highlight the potential benefits of plant derived multiple compounds and the importance of phytochemicals for the development of biocompatible therapeutics. In addition, this review focuses on the diverse effects and efficacy of herbal compounds in controlling the development of MDR in microbes and hopes to inspire research into unexplored plants with a view to identify novel antibiotics for global health benefits.
Screening of Molecular Targets of Action of Atractylodin in Cholangiocarcinoma by Applying Proteomic and Metabolomic Approaches
Authors: Kotawong Kanawut , Chaijaroenkul Wanna , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Phaonakrop Narumon , Na-Bangchang Kesara
Published: November 2019

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is cancer of the bile duct and the highest incidence of CCA in the world is reported in Thailand. Our previous in vitro and in vivo studies identified Atractylodes lancea (Thunb) D.C. as a promising candidate for CCA treatment. The present study aimed to examine the molecular targets of action of atractylodin, the bioactive compound isolated from A. lancea, in CCA cell line by applying proteomic and metabolomic approaches. Intra- and extracellular proteins and metabolites were identified by LC-MS/MS following exposure of CL-6, the CCA cell line, to atractylodin for 24 and 48 h. Analysis of the protein functions and pathways involved was performed using a Venn diagram, PANTHER, and STITCH software. Analysis of the metabolite functions and pathways involved, including the correlation between proteins and metabolites identified was performed using MetaboAnalyst software. Results suggested the involvement of atractylodin in various cell biology processes. These include the cell cycle, apoptosis, DNA repair, immune response regulation, wound healing, blood vessel development, pyrimidine metabolism, the citrate cycle, purine metabolism, arginine and proline metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, the pentose phosphate pathway, and fatty acid biosynthesis. Therefore, it was proposed that the action of atractylodin may involve the destruction of the DNA of cancer cells, leading to cell cycle arrest and cell apoptosis.
Elaboration of the Demulsification Process of W/O Emulsion with Three-Dimensional Electric Spiral Plate-Type Microchannel
Authors: Ma Zhengdong , Pu Yadong , Hamiti Diliyaer , Wei Meixiu , Chen Xiao
Published: November 2019

Rapid and efficient demulsification (destabilizing of an emulsion) processes of a water in oil (W/O) emulsion were carried out in a three-dimensional electric spiral plate-type microchannel (3D-ESPM). In this experiment, the demulsifying efficiency of emulsions by 3D-ESPM was compared with that by gravity settling, the factors influencing demulsifying efficiency were investigated, and the induction period, cut size and residence time in the demulsification process were studied. The results showed that in contrast to the gravity settling method, 3D-ESPM can directly separate the disperse phase (water) instead of the continuous phase (oil). The maximum demulsifying efficiency of W/O emulsion in a single pass through the 3D-ESPM reached 90.3%, with a microchannel height of 200 μm, electric field intensity of 250 V /cm, microchannel angle of 180°, microchannel with 18 plates and a flow rate of 2 mL /min. An induction period of 0.6 s during the demulsification process was simulated with experimental data fitting. When the residence time of emulsion in 3D-ESPM was longer than the induction period, its demulsifying efficiency increased as the increase of the flow velocity due to the droplet coalescence effects of Dean vortices in the spiral microchannel. For this device a cut size of droplets of 4.5 μm was deduced. Our results showed that the demulsification process of W/O emulsion was intensified by 3D-ESPM based on the coupling effect between electric field-induced droplets migration and microfluidic hydrodynamic trapping.
Metagenomic Characterization Reveals Pronounced Seasonality in the Diversity and Structure of the Phyllosphere Bacterial Community in a Mediterranean Ecosystem
Authors: Vokou Despoina , Genitsaris Savvas , Karamanoli Katerina , Vareli Katerina , Zachari Marina , Voggoli Despoina , Monokrousos Nikolaos , Halley John Maxwell , Sainis Ioannis
Published: November 2019

We explore how the phyllosphere microbial community responds to a very seasonal environment such as the Mediterranean. For this, we studied the epiphytic bacterial community of a Mediterranean ecosystem in summer and winter, expecting to detect seasonal differences at their maximum. With high-throughput sequencing (HTS), we detected the operational taxonomic units (OTUs) present in the phyllosphere and also in the surrounding air. The epiphytic community is approximately five orders of magnitude denser than the airborne one and is made almost exclusively by habitat specialists. The two communities differ considerably but Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria are dominant in both. Of the five most abundant phyllosphere OTUs, two were closely related to Sphingomonas strains, one to Methylobacterium and the other two to Rhizobiales and Burkholderiales. We found the epiphytic community to become much richer, more distinct, even and diverse, denser and more connected in summer. In contrast, there was no difference in the level of bacterial colonization of the phyllosphere between the two seasons, although there were seasonal differences for individual taxonomic groups: Firmicutes, Gemmatimonadetes and Chlroroflexi had a higher participation in summer, whereas the major Proteobacteria classes presented reverse patterns, with Betaproteobacteria increasing in summer at the expense of the prominent Alphaproteobacteria.
Bacterial Consortium for Improved Maize (Zea mays L.) Production
Authors: Olanrewaju Oluwaseyi , Babalola Olubukola
Published: November 2019

The ever-increasing human population is a major concern for food security. Maize is the third largest most important food crop. The major problems of cultivation arise from urbanization and land pollution. This reduces the amount of land available for agriculture. The use of chemicals in agriculture is not environmentally friendly. Thus, plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) have been proposed as alternatives. This study aims to test the growth-promoting effect of maize inoculated with six indigenous PGPB isolates. These isolates were assayed for various biochemical and plant growth-promoting activities. They were also assayed for biocontrol activities. Based on the results, six isolates viz A1, A18, A29, NWU4, NWU14, and NWU198 were used to inoculate maize seeds. The inoculated seeds were tried out on the field. A randomized block design was used. PGPB used were in single, consortia of two, and three organisms. The length of the leaves, roots, and stem, plant height, numbers of leaves, and weight of 100 seeds were taken at the fourth and eighth weeks after planting. Microbial consortia increased growth parameters compared to single inoculant treatments. Thus, they can be of advantage in the eradication of low yield. They can also serve as reliable alternatives to chemical fertilizers.
Protective Effect of Green Tea Consumption on Colorectal Cancer Varies by Lifestyle Factors
Authors: Kim Hyejin , Lee Jeonghee , Oh Jae Hwan , Chang Hee Jin , Sohn Dae Kyung , Shin Aesun , Kim Jeongseon
Published: November 2019

The inconsistent findings regarding green tea intake and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in several epidemiological studies might result from variations in lifestyle factors. Therefore, we examined whether increased green tea intake was associated with a decreased risk of CRC and how the risk of CRC was altered by the protective effect of green tea consumption and five health-related factors. A case-control study including 2742 participants (922 cases and 1820 controls) was conducted in Korea. Green tea consumption was assessed using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The risk of CRC was approximately 40% less in the participants in the highest green tea intake tertile than in participants in the lowest green tea intake tertile. Of the five lifestyle factors examined, high body mass index and physical inactivity were independent risk factors for CRC. Regarding the interactions between tea consumption and lifestyle factors, high green tea consumption was associated with a decreased risk of CRC, with or without considering lifestyle factors. However, moderate green tea consumption increased the risk of CRC among ever-smokers, ever-drinkers and the high-inflammatory diet group. Increased consumption of green tea might be helpful to reduce the risk of CRC in those with an unhealthy lifestyle.
Strategies to Address Misestimation of Energy Intake Based on Self-Report Dietary Consumption in Examining Associations Between Dietary Patterns and Cancer Risk
Authors: Solbak Nathan M. , Al Rajabi Ala , Akawung Alianu K. , Lo Siou Geraldine , Kirkpatrick Sharon I. , Robson Paula J.
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of strategies of handling misestimation of energy intake (EI) on observed associations between dietary patterns and cancer risk. Data from Alberta’s Tomorrow Project participants (n = 9,847 men and 16,241 women) were linked to the Alberta Cancer Registry. The revised-Goldberg method was used to characterize EI misestimation. Four strategies assessed the influence of EI misestimation: Retaining individuals with EI misestimation in the cluster analysis (Inclusion), excluding before (ExBefore) or after cluster analysis (ExAfter), or reassigning into ExBefore clusters using the nearest neighbor method (InclusionNN). Misestimation of EI affected approximately 50% of participants. Cluster analysis identified three patterns: Healthy, Meats/Pizza and Sweets/Dairy. Cox proportional hazard regression models assessed associations between the risk of cancer and dietary patterns. Among men, no significant associations (based on an often-used threshold of p < 0.05) between dietary patterns and cancer risk were observed. In women, significant associations were observed between the Sweets/Dairy and Meats/Pizza patterns and all cancer risk in the ExBefore (HR (95% CI): 1.28 (1.04–1.58)) and InclusionNN (HR (95% CI): 1.14 (1.00–1.30)), respectively. Thus, strategies to address misestimation of EI can influence associations between dietary patterns and disease outcomes. Identifying optimal approaches for addressing EI misestimation, for example, by leveraging biomarker-based studies could improve our ability to characterize diet-disease associations.
Pleiotropic Effects of Modified Citrus Pectin
Authors: Eliaz Isaac , Raz Avraham
Published: November 2019

Modified citrus pectin (MCP) has a low-molecular-weight degree of esterification to allow absorption from the small intestinal epithelium into the circulation. MCP produces pleiotropic effects, including but not limited to its antagonism of galectin-3, which have shown benefit in preclinical and clinical models. Regarding cancer, MCP modulates several rate-limiting steps of the metastatic cascade. MCP can also affect cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy. Regarding fibrotic diseases, MCP modulates many of the steps involved in the pathogenesis of aortic stenosis. MCP also reduces fibrosis to the kidney, liver, and adipose tissue. Other benefits of MCP include detoxification and improved immune function. This review summarizes the pleiotropic effects of MCP.
High Potency of SN-38-Loaded Bovine Serum Albumin Nanoparticles Against Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Lin Hsin-Che , Chuang Chih-Hung , Cheng Meng-Hsuan , Lin Yu-Chih , Fang Yi-Ping
Published: November 2019

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive type of breast cancer with a worse prognosis than other types. There are currently no specific approved treatments for TNBC. Albumin is a promising biomimetic material that may be fabricated into nanoparticles to possibly exert passive effects on targeted tumors. Irinotecan has been extensively used in clinical settings, although a high dosage is required due to its low efficiency of conversion into the active metabolite SN-38, also known as 7-ethyl-10-hydroxy-camptothecin. The aim of this work was to optimize SN-38-loaded bovine serum albumin nanoparticles (sBSANPs) and evaluate their potency against TNBC. The sBSANPs were characterized by a small size of about 134–264 nm, a negative charge of −37 to −40 mV, an entrapment efficiency of 59–71%, and a particle yield of 65–86%. The cytotoxicity assays using sBSANPs showed a higher potency specifically against both MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cells (ER−, PR−, HER2−) compared to MCF-7 (ER+, PR+, HER2−), and exhibited an extremely low IC50 at the nanomolar levels (2.01–6.82 nM). The release profiles indicated that SN-38 presented an initial burst release within 12 h, and sBSANPs had a slow release pattern. Flow cytometry results showed that the fluorescence intensity of sBSANPs was significantly higher than that of the control group. The confocal images also confirmed that sBSANPs were taken up by MDA-MB-468 cells. Moreover, we found that a larger BSANP size resulted in an increased hemolytic effect. In vivo animal studies demonstrated that loading of SN-38 into bovine serum albumin nanoparticles could minimize the initial concentration without extending the elimination half-life, but significantly minimized the Cmax (p < 0.001) as compared with irinotecan treatment.
Nanomedicine against Aβ Aggregation by β–Sheet Breaker Peptide Delivery: In Vitro Evidence
Authors: Pederzoli Francesca , Ruozi Barbara , Duskey Jason , Hagmeyer Simone , Sauer Ann Katrin , Grabrucker Stefanie , Coelho Romina , Oddone Natalia , Ottonelli Ilaria , Daini Eleonora , Zoli Michele , Vandelli Maria Angela , Tosi Giovanni , Grabrucker Andreas M.
Published: November 2019

The accumulation of amyloid β (Aβ) triggers a cascade of toxic events in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The KLVFF peptide can interfere with Aβ aggregation. However, the peptide suffers from poor bioavailability and the inability to cross the blood–brain barrier. In this work, we study the possibility of adopting nanomedicine to overcome KLVFF limits in biodistribution. We produced new engineered polymeric nanoparticles (NPs), and we evaluated the cellular toxicity of these NPs and validated that KVLFF peptides released by NPs show the same promising effects on AD pathology. Our results revealed the successful generation of KVLFF loaded NPs that, without significant effects on cell heath, are even more potent in reversing Aβ-induced pathologies compared to the free peptide. Therefore, NPs will significantly advance KVLFF treatment as a therapeutic option for AD.
Highly Water-Soluble Solid Dispersions of Honokiol: Preparation, Solubility, and Bioavailability Studies and Anti-Tumor Activity Evaluation
Authors: Wang Li , Wu Weiwei , Wang Lingling , Wang Lu , Zhao Xiuhua
Published: November 2019

Honokiol (HK), a well-tolerated natural product, has many multiple pharmacological activities. However, its poor water solubility and low bioavailability limit its clinical application and development. The aim of this research was to prepare the solid dispersion (SD) formulation of honokiol (HK) with poloxamer-188 (PLX) as the carrier, thereby improving its solubility and oral bioavailability. Firstly, by investigating the relationship between the addition amount of the PLX and the solubility of HK, and the effects of solid dispersions with different ratios of HK–PLX on the solubility of HK, we determined that the optimum ratio of PLX to HK was (1:4). Then, the HK–PLX (1:4) SD of HK was prepared using the solvent evaporation method. The morphology of the obtained HK–PLX (1:4) SD was different from that of free HK. The HK in the HK–PLX (1:4) SD existed in amorphous form and formed intermolecular hydrogen bonds with PLX. Additionally, the solubility values of the HK–PLX (1:4) SD were about 32.43 ± 0.36 mg/mL and 34.41 ± 0.38 mg/mL in artificial gastric juice (AGJ) and in artificial intestinal juice (AIJ), respectively. Compared with free HK, the release rate and the bioavailability was also substantially improved for HK in its SD form. 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay indicated that the HK–PLX (1:4) SD showed higher inhibition of HepG2 cells than free HK. Taken together, the present study suggests that the HK–PLX (1:4) SD could become a new oral drug formulation with high bioavailability and could produce a better response for clinical applications of HK.
Water Footprint Assessment of Selected Polymers, Polymer Blends, Composites, and Biocomposites for Industrial Application
Authors: Korol Jerzy , Hejna Aleksander , Burchart-Korol Dorota , Chmielnicki Błażej , Wypiór Klaudiusz
Published: November 2019

This paper presents a water footprint assessment of polymers, polymer blends, composites, and biocomposites based on a standardized EUR-pallet case study. The water footprint analysis is based on life cycle assessment (LCA). The study investigates six variants of EUR-pallet production depending on the materials used. The system boundary included the production of each material and the injection molding to obtain a standardized EUR-pallet of complex properties. This paper shows the results of a water footprint of six composition variants of analyzed EUR-pallet, produced from biocomposites and composites based on polypropylene, poly(lactic acid), cotton fibers, jute fibers, kenaf fibers, and glass fibers. Additionally, a water footprint of applied raw materials was evaluated. The highest water footprint was observed for cotton fibers as a reinforcement of the analyzed biocomposites and composites. The water footprint of cotton fibers is caused by the irrigation of cotton crops. The results demonstrate that the standard EUR-pallet produced from polypropylene with glass fibers as reinforcement can contribute to the lowest water footprint.
Chlorination Treatment of Meta-Aramid Fibrids and Its Effects on Mechanical Properties of Polytetramethylene Ether Glycol/Toluene Diisocyanate (PTMEG/TDI)-Based Polyurethane Composites
Authors: Lu Wuyang , Yi Yuhua , Ning Chunping , Ge Mingliang , S.M. Jahangir Alam
Published: November 2019

Meta-aramid fibrids (MAF) have attracted much attention. However, it is difficult for this high mechanical performance fiber to form sufficient interface adhesion between the MAF and polyurethane (PU) matrix due to the chemical inertness of its surface. Thus, the surface activity of MAF should be improved to obtain a high-performance MAF/PU composite. A novel methodology to modify the surface of MAF with a sodium dichloroisocyanurate solution (DCCNa) was developed to obtain chlorinated MAF (MAFC) in this study. A series of MAFC/PU composites was prepared by in situ polymerization processes. The results of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) demonstrated that the chlorine-contained chemical groups were introduced onto the MAF surfaces after chlorination. Dynamic contact angle analysis (DCAA) revealed that the surface wettability and the surface free energy of the MAFC were significantly improved, which allowed for strong chemical bonding to PU. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed a uniform distribution of MAFC and good interfacing bonding between the MAFC and PU. With the incorporation of 1.5 wt% MAFC into the polyurethane matrix, the tensile and tear strength values of MAFC/PU were 36.4 MPa and 80.1 kN·m−1 respectively, corresponding to improvements of approximately 43.3% and 21.1%, as compared to those of virgin PU as 25.4 MPa and 66.1 kN·m−1, respectively.
Novel Solid-State Potentiometric Sensors Using Polyaniline (PANI) as A Solid-Contact Transducer for Flucarbazone Herbicide Assessment
Authors: Kamel Ayman H. , Amr Abd El-Galil E. , Abdalla Nashwa S. , El-Naggar Mohamed , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Alkahtani Hamad M. , Sayed Ahmed Y. A.
Published: November 2019

Novel potentiometric solid-contact ion-selective electrodes (SC/ISEs) based on molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) as sensory carriers (MIP/PANI/ISE) were prepared and characterized as potentiometric sensors for flucarbazone herbicide anion. However, aliquat S 336 was also studied as a charged carrier in the fabrication of Aliquat/PANI/ISEs for flucarbazone monitoring. The polyaniline (PANI) film was inserted between the ion-sensing membrane (ISM) and the electronic conductor glassy carbon substrate (GC). The sensors showed a noticeable response towards flucarbazone anions with slopes of −45.5 ± 1.3 (r2 = 0.9998) and −56.3 ± 1.5 (r2 = 0.9977) mV/decade over the range of 10−2–10−5, 10−2–10−4 M and detection limits of 5.8 × 10−6 and 8.5 × 10−6 M for MIP/PANI/ISE and Aliguat/PANI/ISE, respectively. The selectivity and long-term potential stability of all presented ISEs were investigated. The short-term potential and electrode capacitances were studied and evaluated using chronopotentiometry and electrochemical impedance spectrometry (EIS). The proposed ISEs were introduced for the direct measurement of flucarbazone herbicide in different soil samples sprayed with flucarbazone herbicide. The results agree well with the results obtained using the standard liquid chromatographic method (HPLC).
Chemically and Thermally Crosslinked PVA-Based Membranes: Effect on Swelling and Transport Behavior
Authors: Rynkowska Edyta , Fatyeyeva Kateryna , Marais Stéphane , Kujawa Joanna , Kujawski Wojciech
Published: November 2019

The novel poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)-based membranes were prepared using the two-step crosslinking approach: the chemical crosslinking of PVA using sulfosuccinic acid (SSA) (0–50 wt.%) and the thermal treatment (120–160 °C). The membrane composition and crosslinking temperature were optimized in terms of the mechanical and transport properties. The FTIR-ATR analysis revealed that the increase of the SSA concentration and crosslinking temperature resulted in the rise of the ester bond bands intensity due to the esterification reaction between PVA and SSA. As a consequence, the PVA-based membrane with 50 wt % SSA and crosslinked at 140 °C showed the reduced Young’s modulus (from 1266.2 MPa to 1.4 MPa) and elongation at break (from 316% to 66%) in comparison with the pure PVA membrane. The studied swelling behavior of the obtained membranes revealed significantly higher water sorption than that in methanol and propal-2-ol whatever the crosslinking temperature. The performed studies provide a new way of tailoring the membrane physicochemical properties, in particular, the surface hydrophilicity. In addition, the obtained results are crucial for the design and elaboration of the polymer membranes for the pervaporative separation of the liquid-liquid mixtures, in particular, for the alcohol dehydration.
Model Validation and Process Design of Continuous Single Pass Tangential Flow Filtration Focusing on Continuous Bioprocessing for High Protein Concentrations
Authors: Huter Maximilian Johannes , Jensch Christoph , Strube Jochen
Published: November 2019

In this study, the continuous Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration (SPTFF) concept is adapted for high protein concentrations. The work is based on the previously validated physico-chemical model for low concentrations and high viscosities. The model contains the Stagnant Film Model for concentration polarization, as well as the Boundary Layer Model for the mass transfer through the membrane. The pressure drop is calculated as a function of the Reynolds number. By performing preliminary experiments with a single ultrafiltration (UF) cassette, the model parameter are determined. The presented model is validated for a multi-step Single-Pass Tangential Flow Filtration. With subsequent simulation studies, an optimized process is found and confirmed by experiments. The outcome of this work shows the potential to optimize this multi-parameter dependent unit operation. This is reached by a model-based optimization allowing significant reduction of experimental efforts and applying the Quality by Design approach consistently. Furthermore, a comparison between the experimental setup and a commercial module is examined.
Density Functional Theory Analysis of the Adsorption Interactions of Carbon Impurities in Coal-associated Kaolinite
Authors: Lu Fangqin , Liu Lingyun , Min Fanfei , Chen Jun , Zhang Mingxu
Published: November 2019

Kaolinite is a difficult-to-float clay existing in coal slurries which negatively impacts coal flotation. A better understanding of its adsorption behavior would improve coal-slurry processing. Carbon impurities in the kaolinite can affect this behavior. The appearance and elemental surface composition of the carbon impurities precipitated by kaolinite oxidative treatment were microscopically analyzed, and their chemical speciation and relative C and O contents were probed. The mechanisms of adsorption on the main kaolinite cleavage planes ((001) and (001) surfaces) for two carbon-impurity structural models, a phenolic hydroxyl unit (Ph–OH) and carbon hydroxyl unit (C–OH), were considered using density functional theory methods. The carbon impurities consisted mainly of C and O, with C present mostly as C–C, C–H, and C–O species, and O existing mainly in –OH and C–O structures. Both Ph–OH and C–OH units adsorbed stably on the kaolinite (001) and (001) surfaces through hydrogen bonding between the hydroxyl groups and surfaces. A strong electrostatic attraction occurred between the Ph–OH benzene ring and kaolinite surfaces, whereas the carbon ring in C–OH did not interact with either surface. Finally, for both units, adsorption on the kaolinite (001) surface was more stable than on the (001) surface.
Fault Classification Decision Fusion System Based on Combination Weights and an Improved Voting Method
Authors: Zeng Fanliang , Li Zuxin , Zhou Zhe , Du Shuxin
Published: November 2019

It is difficult to correctly classify all faults by using only one classifier, and the performance of most classifiers varies under different conditions. In view of this, a new decision fusion system is proposed to solve the problem of fault classification. The proposed decision fusion system is innovative in two aspects: the use of combined weights and a new improved voting method. The combined weights integrate the subjective and objective weights, where the analytic hierarchy process and entropy weight-technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution are used to determine the subjective and objective weights of different base classifiers under multiple performance evaluation indicators. Moreover, a new improved voting method based on the concept of classifier validity is proposed to increase the accuracy of the decision system. Finally, the method is validated by the Tennessee Eastman benchmark process, and the classification accuracy of the new method is shown to be improved by more than 5.06% compared to the best base classifier.
A PSO-Based Recurrent Closed-Loop Optimization Method for Multiple Controller Single-Output Thermal Engineering Systems
Authors: Liu Xingjian , Pan Lei
Published: November 2019

For solving the problems of closed-loop optimization on controller parameters of multiple-controller single-output thermal engineering system, this paper proposes a recurrent optimization method that is based on the particle swarm computing and closed-loop simulation (PSO-RCO). It consists of a set of closed-loop identification, simulation, and optimization functions that are organized in a recurrent working flow. The working flow makes one controller tuned at a time whilst others keep their values. It ends after several rounds of overall optimizations. Such a recurrently alternative tuning can greatly speed up the convergence of controller parameters to reasonable values. Verifications on practical data from a superheated steam temperature control system show that the optimized control system performance is greatly improved by reasonable controller parameters and practicable control action. With the advantage of not interfering system operation and the potential supporting on big data identification method, the PSO-RCO is a promising method for control system optimization.
Numerical Study of the Unsteady Flow Characteristics of a Jet Centrifugal Pump under Multiple Conditions
Authors: Guo Rong , Li Rennian , Zhang Renhui , Han Wei
Published: November 2019

To study the reasons for the low efficiency of jet centrifugal pumps (JCPs) and the mechanism of unsteady flow characteristics under multiple conditions, taking a JET750G1 JCP as the object, three-dimensional steady and unsteady numerical calculations of the model pump were carried out using the k–ω turbulence model. The transient fluctuation characteristics of the flow field in the major flow passage components and the spatial and temporal evolution laws of vortices in the rotor–stator cascades were analyzed. The accuracy of the numerical method was verified by experiments. The results show that there are various scales of flow distortion phenomena in the chamber of the JCP, such as eddies, blockage of the flow passage, recirculation, secondary flow, and circulation, which not only cause great hydraulic loss, but also destroy the flow stability, symmetry, and balance in the other flow passage components. This is an important reason for the obviously lower efficiency of a JCP compared to a general centrifugal pump. The spatial and temporal evolution laws of vortices in the rotor–stator cascades are mainly related to the relative positions of the impeller blades and guide vane blades. The formation mechanism of the unsteady flow field fluctuation characteristics of JCPs is mainly related to the number of blades in the rotor–stator cascades and the operation parameters of the pump. The fluctuation intensity of the flow field inside the impeller and guide vane is obviously greater than that in the other flow areas, reflecting that the rotor–stator interaction is the decisive factor affecting the unsteady flow characteristics of a JCP under multiple conditions.
Titanium Distribution Ratio Model of Ladle Furnace Slags for Tire Cord Steel Production Based on the Ion–Molecule Coexistence Theory at 1853 K
Authors: Lei Jialiu , Zhao Dongnan , Feng Wei , Xue Zhengliang
Published: November 2019

High-strength tire cord steel is mainly used in radial ply tires, but the presence of brittle Ti inclusions can cause failure of the wires and jeopardize their performance in production. In order to control the titanium content during steel production, a thermodynamic model for predicting the titanium distribution ratio between CaO–SiO2–Al2O3–MgO–FeO–MnO–TiO2 slags during the ladle furnace (LF) refining process at 1853 K has been established based on the ion–molecule coexistence theory (IMCT), combined with industrial measurements, and the effect of basicity on the titanium distribution ratio was discussed. The results showed that the titanium distribution ratio predicted by the developed IMCT exhibited a dependable agreement with the measurements, and the optical basicity is suggested to reflect the correlation between basicity and the titanium distribution ratio. Furthermore, quantitative titanium distribution ratios of TiO2, CaO·TiO2, MgO·TiO2, FeO·TiO2, and MnO·TiO2 were acquired by the IMCT model, respectively. Calculation results revealed that the structural unit CaO plays a pivotal role in the slags in the de-titanium process.
The Synthesis of N-(Pyridin-2-yl)-Benzamides from Aminopyridine and Trans-Beta-Nitrostyrene by Fe2Ni-BDC Bimetallic Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Nguyen Trinh Duy , Nguyen Oanh Kim Thi , Tran Thuan Van , Nguyen Vinh Huu , Bach Long Giang , Tran Nhan Viet , Vo Dai-Viet N. , Nguyen Tuyen Van , Hong Seong-Soo , Do Sy Trung
Published: November 2019

A bimetallic metal–organic framework material, which was generated by bridging iron (III) cations and nickel (II) cations with 1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic anions (Fe2Ni-BDC), was synthesized by a solvothermal approach using nickel (II) nitrate hexahydrate and iron (III) chloride hexahydrate as the mixed metal source and 1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid (H2BDC) as the organic ligand source. The structure of samples was determined by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, and nitrogen physisorption measurements. The catalytic activity and recyclability of the Fe2Ni-BDC catalyst for the Michael addition amidation reaction of 2-aminopyridine and nitroolefins were estimated. The results illustrated that the Fe2Ni-BDC catalyst demonstrated good efficiency in the reaction under optimal conditions. Based on these results, a reaction mechanism was proposed. When the molar ratio of 2-aminopyridine and trans-β-nitrostyrene was 1:1, and the solvent was dichloromethane, the isolated yield of pyridyl benzamide reached 82%; at 80 °C over 24 h. The catalyst can be reused without a substantial reduction in catalytic activity with 77% yield after six times of reuse.
Sustainable Design and Engineering: A Relationship Analysis between Digital Destructive and Non-Destructive Testing Process for Lightweight Concrete
Authors: Qurashi Muhammad Ahmed , Shah Syyed Adnan Raheel , Farhan Muhammad , Taufiq Muhammad , Khalid Waleed , Arshad Hunain , Tayyab Muhammad , Shahzadi Gullnaz , Waseem Muhammad
Published: November 2019

The development of sustainable lightweight materials is a promising field solution in this era. The production of sustainable materials by replacing coarse aggregates with some lightweight alternative provides a good quality construction material. In this study, rocky coarse aggregates were replaced by an ultra-lightweight material (i.e., expanded polystyrene beads) to produce an equivalent rock-solid mass of concrete. Using an M15 grade of concrete composition, expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads were added in place of aggregates in amounts ranging from 5% to 40% at a water–cement (w/c) ratio of 0.60. The specimen size as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specification was 150 mm in diameter and 300 mm in length. Furthermore, statistical analysis for the relationship study for destructive testing (DT) (i.e., compressive test machine) and non-destructive testing (NDT) (i.e., rebound hammer and ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV)) has been performed at developed specimens under 7- and 28-day curing conditions. In the end, the results showed that NDT predicts higher compressive strength than that of DT with the addition of EPS beads up to 20% aggregate replacement, after that it is vice versa for up to 40% aggregate replacement. This study will not only help in the production of sustainable lightweight materials, but especially concrete block production can also be performed at a large scale as a sustainable engineering solution.
Quantitative and Comparative Analyses of Limit Order Books with General Compound Hawkes Processes
Authors: He Qiyue , Swishchuk Anatoliy
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we solve the problem of mid price movements arising in high-frequency and algorithmic trading using real data. Namely, we introduce different new types of General Compound Hawkes Processes (GCHPDO, GCHP2SDO, GCHPnSDO) and find their diffusive limits to model the mid price movements of 6 stocks-EBAY, FB, MU, PCAR, SMH, CSCO. We also define error rates to estimate the models fitting accuracy. Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) are used for Hawkes processes and models parameters’ calibration.
High Frequency Price Change Spillovers in Bitcoin Markets
Authors: Giudici Paolo , Pagnottoni Paolo
Published: November 2019

The study of connectedness is key to assess spillover effects and identify lead-lag relationships among market exchanges trading the same asset. By means of an extension of Diebold and Yilmaz (2012) econometric connectedness measures, we examined the relationships of five major Bitcoin exchange platforms during two periods of main interest: the 2017 surge in prices and the 2018 decline. We concluded that Bitfinex and Gemini are leading exchanges in terms of return spillover transmission during the analyzed time-frame, while Bittrexs act as a follower. We also found that connectedness of overall returns fell substantially right before the Bitcoin price hype, whereas it leveled out during the period the down market period. We confirmed that the results are robust with regards to the modeling strategies.
Forest Canopy Height and Gaps from Multiangular BRDF, Assessed with Airborne LiDAR Data
Authors: Wang Qiang , Ni-Meister Wenge
Published: November 2019

Both vegetation multi-angular and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) remote sensing data are indirectly and directly linked with 3D vegetation structure parameters, such as the tree height and vegetation gap fraction, which are critical elements in above-ground biomass and light profiles for photosynthesis estimation. LiDAR, particularly LiDAR using waveform data, provides accurate estimates of these structural parameters but suffers from not enough spatial samplings. Structural parameters retrieved from multiangular imaging data through the inversion of physical models have larger uncertainties. This study searches for an analytical approach to fuse LiDAR and multiangular data. We explore the relationships between vegetation structure parameters derived from airborne vegetation LiDAR data and multiangular data and present a new potential angle vegetation index to retrieve the tree height and gap fraction using multi-angular data in Howland Forest, Maine. The BRDF (bidirectional reflectance distribution factor) index named NDMM (normalized difference between the maximum and minimum reflectance) linearly increases with the tree height and decreases with the gap fraction. In addition, these relationships are also dependent on the wavelength, tree species, and stand density. The NDMM index performs better in conifer (R = 0.451 for tree height and R = 0.472 for the gap fraction using the near infrared band) than in deciduous and mixed forests. It is superior in sparse (R = 0.569 for tree height and R = 0.604 for the gap fraction using the near infrared band) compared to dense forest. Moreover, the NDMM index is more strongly related to tree height and the gap fraction at the near infrared band than at the three visible bands. This study sheds light on the possibility of using multiangular data to map vegetation’s structural parameters in larger regions for carbon cycle studies through the fusion of LiDAR and multiangular remote sensing data.
Self-Contained High-SNR Underwater Acoustic Signal Acquisition Node and Synchronization Sampling Method for Multiple Distributed Nodes
Authors: Jiang Jiajia , Liu Han , Duan Fajie , Wang Xianquan , Fu Xiao , Li Chunyue , Sun Zhongbo , Dong Xinyuan
Published: November 2019

Aiming at the application demand in underwater noise monitoring, observation of marine animal, antisubmarine and underwater target localization, a high-SNR underwater acoustic signal acquisition (UASA) node that combines a self-contained acquisition system and floating platform is designed to improve the acquisition performance of a single UASA node, and a high-accuracy synchronization sampling method among multiple distributed UASA nodes based on master-slave dual phase-locked loops (MSDPLL) is proposed to improve the synchronization sampling accuracy. According to the equivalent model of hydrophone and application requirements, low noise signal conditioning circuit and large-capacity data storage modules are designed. Based on the long-term monitoring requirements for underwater acoustic signal and distributed positioning requirements for underwater targets, the structure of a single UASA node is designed and MSDPLL is developed for high-accuracy synchronization sampling among multiple UASA nodes. Related experimental results verified the performance of the UASA node and the synchronization sampling method.