bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
4-(2-Bromovinyl)benzocyclobutene
Authors: Chudov Konstantin A. , Levchenko Konstantin S. , Shmelin Pavel S. , Grebennikov Evgeny P.
Published: February 2020

4-(2-Bromovinyl)benzocyclobutene was prepared via a five stage synthesis starting from benzocyclobutene in an overall 30% yield. 4-(2-Bromovinyl)benzocyclobutene has a potential applications in synthesis of monomers for dielectric materials.
A New Ultra-High-Strength AB83 Alloy by Combining Extrusion and Caliber Rolling
Authors: Meng Shuaiju , Dong Lishan , Yu Hui , Huang Lixin , Han Haisheng , Cheng Weili , Feng Jianhang , Wen Jingjing , Li Zhongjie , Zhao Weimin
Published: February 2020

An exceptionally high-strength rare-earth-free Mg–8Al–3Bi (AB83) alloy was successfully fabricated via extrusion and caliber rolling. After three-pass caliber rolling, the homogenous microstructure of the as-extruded AB83 alloy was changed to a necklace-like bimodal structure consisting of ultra-fine dynamic recrystallized (DRXed) grains and microscale deformed grains. Additionally, both Mg17Al12 and Mg3Bi2 nanoprecipitates, undissolved microscale Mg17Al12, and Mg3Bi2 particles were dispersed in the matrix of caliber-rolled (CRed) AB83 alloy. The CRed AB83 sample demonstrated a slightly weakened basal texture, compared with that of the as-extruded sample. Consequently, CRed AB83 showed a tensile yield strength of 398 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 429 MPa, and an elongation of 11.8%. The superior mechanical properties of the caliber-rolled alloy were mainly originated from the combined effects of the necklace-like bimodal microstructure containing ultra-fine DRXed grains, the homogeneously distributed nanoprecipitates and microscale particles, as well as the slightly modified basal texture.
Steered Pull Simulation to Determine Nanomechanical Properties of Cellulose Nanofiber
Authors: Muthoka Ruth M. , Kim Hyun Chan , Kim Jung Woong , Zhai Lindong , Panicker Pooja S. , Kim Jaehwan
Published: February 2020

Cellulose nanofiber (CNF) exhibits excellent mechanical properties, which has been extensively proven through experimental techniques. However, understanding the mechanisms and the inherent structural behavior of cellulose is important in its vastly growing research areas of applications. This study focuses on taking a look into what happens to the atomic molecular interactions of CNF, mainly hydrogen bond, in the presence of external force. This paper investigates the hydrogen bond disparity within CNF structure. To achieve this, molecular dynamics simulations of cellulose I β nanofibers are carried out in equilibrated conditions in water using GROMACS software in conjunction with OPLS-AA force field. It is noted that the hydrogen bonds within the CNF are disrupted when a pulling force is applied. The simulated Young’s modulus of CNF is found to be 161 GPa. A simulated shear within the cellulose chains presents a trend with more hydrogen bond disruptions at higher forces.
Synthesis and Adsorption Performance of a Hierarchical Micro-Mesoporous Carbon for Toluene Removal under Ambient Conditions
Authors: An Zhaohui , Kong Shulin , Zhang Wenwen , Yuan Ming , An Zhihao , Chen Donghui
Published: February 2020

Ordered mesoporous carbons (OMCs) were synthesized in this study through a soft template method and then activated by employing different mass ratios of KOH/OMCs to obtain KOH-activated ordered mesoporous carbons (KOMCs) with hierarchical pore structures. To verify the adsorption capacity, the KOMCs have been subjected to toluene emission-reduction experiments. The KOMCs were characterized by TEM, XRD, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, and Raman spectroscopy. The pore structure of OMCs was found to be effectively optimized by the activation with KOH, with the BET-area and total pore volume values reaching as high as 2661 m2 g−1 and 2.14 cm3 g−1 respectively. Then, the dynamic adsorption capacity of toluene on KOMCs was investigated via breakthrough curves, which can be well described by the Yoon and Nelson (Y-N) model. The dynamic adsorption capacities of toluene exhibit the following order: OMC < KOMC-1 < KOMC-5 < KOMC-3. The sample activated by KOH/OMC with a mass ratio of 3:1 (KOMC-3) demonstrated the highest toluene adsorption capacity of 355.67 mg g−1, three times higher in comparison with the untreated carbon (104.61 mg g−1). The modified hierarchical porous carbons also exhibited good recyclability. The KOMCs with rich pore structure, high toluene adsorption capacity, and superior reusability thus display a huge potential for volatile organic compound (VOC) elimination.
On the Influence of Corrosion on the Load-Carrying Capacity of Old Riveted Bridges
Authors: Gocál Jozef , Odrobiňák Jaroslav
Published: February 2020

Steel corrosion is one of the most dominant factors in the degradation of transport infrastructure. This article deals with the impact of the atmospheric corrosion of structural steel on the load-carrying capacity of old riveted bridge structures. A study on the impact of corrosion losses on the resistance and, thus, the load-carrying capacity of eight chosen bridge members with riveted I-sections from three different bridge substructures is presented. The load-carrying capacity calculation is carried out using modern procedures and on the basis of the diagnosed state of the structural elements. Within the analysis of the results, the need for long-term in situ corrosion measurements, as well as the need for regular inspections on the existing bridges are also discussed.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Magnetochemistry in 2019
Authors:   Magnetochemistry Editorial Office
Published: February 2020

Rigorous peer-review is the corner-stone of high-quality academic publishing [...]
A Meta-Analysis Comparing the Efficacy and Safety of Peramivir with Other Neuraminidase Inhibitors for Influenza Treatment
Authors: Chen Jui-Yi , Wei Shih-Kai , Lai Chih-Cheng , Weng Teng-Song , Wang Hsin-Hua
Published: February 2020

Background and Objectives: This meta-analysis compared the efficacy and safety of peramivir compared to other neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs). Materials and Methods: Data from PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched until January 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (OSs) comparing peramivir with other NAIs for treating influenza were included. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessments, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) system was used to judge the overall certainty of evidence; the result was moderate. The primary outcome was time to alleviation of symptoms. Twelve articles involving 2681 patients were included in this meta-analysis. We used a random-effect model to pool the effect size, which is expressed as the difference in means (MD), risk ratio (RR), and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: Overall, peramivir was superior to other NAIs (MD = −11.214 hours, 95% CI: −19.119 to −3.310). The incidence of adverse events (RR = 1.023, 95% CI: 0.717 to 1.460) and serious adverse events (RR = 1.068, 95% CI: 0.702 to 1.625) in the peramivir group was similar to those in the oseltamivir group. In addition, peramivir had higher efficacy than each NAI alone. Conclusion: In conclusion, the efficacy of peramivir might be higher than that of other NAIs, and this agent is tolerated as well as other NAIs.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Validation of Liquid Metal Droplet Formation in a Co-Flowing Capillary Microfluidic Device
Authors: Hu Qingming , Jiang Tianyi , Jiang Hongyuan
Published: February 2020

A two-phase flow axisymmetric numerical model was proposed to understand liquid metal droplet formation in a co-flowing capillary microfluidics device based on a phase field model. The droplet detachment processes were observed in the experiment and are in good agreement with the simulation method. The effects of the viscosities and flowrates of the continuous phase fluid, interfacial tension as well as the wetting property of the metallic needle against the bulk liquid metal on the droplet formation and production rate were numerically investigated. It was found that the droplet diameter decreased with the increment of the viscosities and flowrates of the outer phase carrier fluid. The dispersed phase fluid with high interfacial tension tended to prolong the time for equilibrium between the viscous drag force and interfacial tension on the liquid–liquid fluid surface, delaying the droplet to be pinched off from the capillary orifice and causing large droplet diameter. Finally, the wetting performance of the metallic needle against the liquid metal was explored. The result indicate that the droplet diameter became less dependent on the contact angle while the size distribution of the liquid metal droplet was affected by their wetting performance. A more hydrophilic wetting performance were expected to prepare liquid metal droplet with more monodispersity. The numerical model and simulation results provide the feasibility of predicting the droplet formation with a high surface tension in a glass capillary microfluidic device.
Proposing BCG Vaccination for Mycobacterium avium ss. paratuberculosis (MAP) Associated Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Dow Coad Thomas
Published: February 2020

Bacille Calmette–Guerin (BCG) vaccination is widely practiced around the world to protect against the mycobacterial infection tuberculosis. BCG is also effective against the pathogenic mycobacteria that cause leprosy and Buruli’s ulcer. BCG is part of the standard of care for bladder cancer where, when given as an intravesicular irrigant, BCG acts as an immunomodulating agent and lessens the risk of recurrence. Mycobacterium avium ss. paratuberculosis (MAP) causes a fatal enteritis of ruminant animals and is the putative cause of Crohn’s disease of humans. MAP has been associated with an increasingly long list of inflammatory/autoimmune diseases: Crohn's, sarcoidosis, Blau syndrome, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, autoimmune diabetes (T1D), multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and Parkinson’s disease. Epidemiologic evidence points to BCG providing a “heterologous” protective effect on assorted autoimmune diseases; studies using BCG vaccination for T1D and MS have shown benefit in these diseases. This article proposes that the positive response to BCG in T1D and MS is due to a mitigating action of BCG upon MAP. Other autoimmune diseases, having a concomitant genetic risk for mycobacterial infection as well as cross-reacting antibodies against mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (HSP65), could reasonably be considered to respond to BCG vaccination. The rare autoimmune disease, relapsing polychondritis, is one such disease and is offered as an example. Recent studies suggesting a protective role for BCG in Alzheimer’s disease are also explored. BCG-induced energy shift from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis provides the immunomodulating boost to the immune response and also mitigates mycobacterial infection—this cellular mechanism unifies the impact of BCG on the disparate diseases of this article.
Effect of Body Representation Level of an Avatar on Quality of AR-Based Remote Instruction
Authors: Wang Tzu-Yang , Sato Yuji , Otsuki Mai , Kuzuoka Hideaki , Suzuki Yusuke
Published: February 2020

In manufacturing, augmented reality (AR)-based remote instruction systems, which enable workers to receive instructions from an avatar, are widely used. In this study, we developed such a system and investigated the effect of the body representation level of the avatar on the quality of AR-based remote instruction. Drawing on the avatar designs of previous works, three different avatar designs (“Hand only”, “Hand + Arm”, and “Body”), representing three body representation levels, were created. In the experiment with a within-participant design, the avatar pointed at blocks sequentially and participants touched each block as soon as they identified it. The results of the experiment indicate that an AR-based remote instruction system with a “Body” avatar exhibits higher usability and can enable the participants to have a lower workload and higher efficiency.
Investigation of the Electrical Properties of Microtubule Ensembles under Cell-Like Conditions
Authors: Kalra Aarat P. , Patel Sahil D. , Bhuiyan Asadullah F. , Preto Jordane , Scheuer Kyle G. , Mohammed Usman , Lewis John D. , Rezania Vahid , Shankar Karthik , Tuszynski Jack A.
Published: February 2020

Microtubules are hollow cylindrical polymers composed of the highly negatively-charged (~23e), high dipole moment (1750 D) protein α, β- tubulin. While the roles of microtubules in chromosomal segregation, macromolecular transport, and cell migration are relatively well-understood, studies on the electrical properties of microtubules have only recently gained strong interest. Here, we show that while microtubules at physiological concentrations increase solution capacitance, free tubulin has no appreciable effect. Further, we observed a decrease in electrical resistance of solution, with charge transport peaking between 20–60 Hz in the presence of microtubules, consistent with recent findings that microtubules exhibit electric oscillations at such low frequencies. We were able to quantify the capacitance and resistance of the microtubules (MT) network at physiological tubulin concentrations to be 1.27 × 10−5 F and 9.74 × 104 Ω. Our results show that in addition to macromolecular transport, microtubules also act as charge storage devices through counterionic condensation across a broad frequency spectrum. We conclude with a hypothesis of an electrically tunable cytoskeleton where the dielectric properties of tubulin are polymerisation-state dependent.
Growth Factors Delivery System for Skin Regeneration: An Advanced Wound Dressing
Authors: Nardini Marta , Perteghella Sara , Mastracci Luca , Grillo Federica , Marrubini Giorgio , Bari Elia , Formica Matteo , Gentili Chiara , Cancedda Ranieri , Torre Maria Luisa , Mastrogiacomo Maddalena
Published: February 2020

Standard treatments of chronic skin ulcers based on the direct application of dressings still present several limits with regard to a complete tissue regeneration. Innovative strategies in tissue engineering offer materials that can tune cell behavior and promote growth tissue favoring cell recruitment in the early stages of wound healing. A combination of Alginate (Alg), Sericin (SS) with Platelet Lysate (PL), as a freeze-dried sponge, is proposed to generate a bioactive wound dressing to care skin lesions. Biomembranes at different composition were tested for the release of platelet growth factors, cytotoxicity, protective effects against oxidative stress and cell proliferation induction. The highest level of the growth factors release occurred within 48 h, an optimized time to burst a healing process in vivo; the presence of SS differently modulated the release of the factors by interaction with the proteins composing the biomembranes. Any cytotoxicity was registered, whereas a capability to protect cells against oxidative stress and induce proliferation was observed when PL was included in the biomembrane. In a mouse skin lesion model, the biomembranes with PL promoted the healing process, inducing an accelerated and more pronounced burst of inflammation, formation of granulation tissue and new collagen deposition, leading to a more rapid skin regeneration.
Semi-Mechanism-Based Pharmacokinetic-Toxicodynamic Model of Oxaliplatin-Induced Acute and Chronic Neuropathy
Authors: Kobuchi Shinji , Shimizu Risa , Ito Yukako
Published: February 2020

Oxaliplatin (L-OHP) is widely prescribed for treating gastroenterological cancer. L-OHP-induced peripheral neuropathy is a critical toxic effect that limits the dosage of L-OHP. An ideal chemotherapeutic strategy that does not result in severe peripheral neuropathy but confers high anticancer efficacy has not been established. To establish an optimal evidence-based dosing regimen, a pharmacokinetic-toxicodynamic (PK-TD) model that can characterize the relationship between drug administration regimen and L-OHP-induced peripheral neuropathy is required. We developed a PK-TD model of L-OHP for peripheral neuropathy using Phoenix® NLME™ Version 8.1. Plasma concentration of L-OHP, the number of withdrawal responses in the acetone test, and the threshold value in the von Frey test following 3, 5, or 8 mg/kg L-OHP administration were used. The PK-TD model consisting of an indirect response model and a transit compartment model adequately described and simulated time-course alterations of onset and grade of L-OHP-induced cold and mechanical allodynia. The results of model analysis suggested that individual fluctuation of plasma L-OHP concentration might be a more important factor for individual variability of neuropathy than cell sensitivity to L-OHP. The current PK-TD model might contribute to investigation and establishment of an optimal dosing strategy that can reduce L-OHP-induced neuropathy.
Species Differences in Stereoselective Pharmacokinetics of HSG4112, A New Anti-Obesity Agent
Authors: Bae In Yong , Choi Min Sun , Ji Young Seok , Yoo Sang-Ku , Kim Kyungil , Yoo Hye Hyun
Published: February 2020

HSG4112, a racemic drug, is a new anti-obesity agent. In this study, the stereoselective pharmacokinetics of HSG4112 were investigated in rats and dogs, and the underlying mechanism was investigated. The plasma concentrations of HSG4112(S) and HSG4112(R) were quantitated in plasma from rats and beagle dogs after IV and/or oral administration of racemic HSG4112. The concentration of HSG4112(S) was significantly higher than that of HSG4112(R) in rat plasma. Contrarily, the concentration of HSG4112(R) was significantly higher than HSG4112(S) in dog plasma. A metabolic stability test with liver microsomes showed that HSG4112(S) was more stable than HSG4112(R) in rat liver microsomes, but the difference between stereoisomers did not appear in dog liver microsomes. However, the stereoselectivity was observed in dog liver and intestinal microsomes after uridine 5’-diphospho-glucuronic acid was added. Thus, stereoselective metabolism by uridine 5’-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferases is mainly responsible for the stereoselective pharmacokinetics in dogs. These results suggest that the species difference in the stereoselective plasma pharmacokinetics of HSG4112 is due to the stereoselective metabolism.
Innovation of Critical Bubble Electrospinning and Its Mechanism
Authors: Li Ya , Dong Aixue , He Jihuan
Published: February 2020

Along with the advent of an ever-increasing demand for the nano-industrialization, nanofibers become a unique class with many fascinating properties due to their nanoscale diameters and high surface area to volume ratio [...]
Single and Double-Stranded 1D-Coordination Polymers with 4′-(4-Alkyloxyphenyl)-3,2′:6′,3″-terpyridines and {Cu2(μ-OAc)4} or {Cu4(μ3-OH)2(μ-OAc)2(μ3-OAc)2(AcO-κO)2} Motifs
Authors: Rocco Dalila , Manfroni Giacomo , Prescimone Alessandro , Klein Y. Maximilian , Gawryluk Dariusz J. , Constable Edwin C. , Housecroft Catherine E.
Published: February 2020

Five coordination polymers formed from combinations of copper(II) acetate and 4′-(4-alkyloxyphenyl)-3,2′:6′,3″-terpyridines with methoxy (1), n-butoxy (2), n-pentyloxy (3) and n-heptyloxy (4) substituents are reported. Reaction of 1 with Cu(OAc)2∙H2O leads to the 1D-polymer [Cu2(μ-OAc)4(1)]n in which {Cu2(μ-OAc)4} paddle-wheel units are connected by ligands 1, or [{Cu4(μ3-OH)2(μ-OAc)2(μ3-OAc)2(AcO-κO)2(1)2}·2MeOH]n in which centrosymmetric tetranuclear clusters link pairs of ligands 1 to give a double-stranded 1D-polymer. Layering solutions of Cu(OAc)2∙H2O (in MeOH) over 2, 3 or 4 (in CHCl3) leads to the assembly of the 1D-polymers [2{Cu2(μ-OAc)4(2)}·1.25MeOH]n, [Cu2(μ-OAc)4(3)]n and [{Cu2(μ-OAc)4(4)}·0.2CHCl3]n. In all compounds, the 3,2′:6′,3″-tpy unit coordinates only through the outer pyridine rings, but the conformation of the 3,2′:6′,3″-tpy responds to changes in the length of the alkyloxy tails leading to changes in the conformation of the polymer backbone and in the packing of the chains in the crystal lattice in the chains featuring {Cu2(μ-OAc)4} paddle-wheel linkers.
Electrical Strength and Physicochemical Performances of HTV Silicone Rubber under Salt-Fog Environment with DC Energized
Authors: Zhang Zhijin , Liang Tian , Li Chen , Jiang Xingliang , Wu Jian , Wu Bin
Published: February 2020

In recent years, the performances of rubber composite insulators, which operate in the coastal foggy regions, have attracted researchers’ concern because of the observation of their degradation. In this paper, salt-fog experiments with DC test voltage of high-temperature vulcanized (HTV) silicone rubber (SR) have been conducted. The electrical strength and material performances of samples with salt-fog treatment were focused on. The DC flashover voltage, hydrophobicity, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dielectric parameter were investigated. It was found that the samples’ performances deteriorated after salt-fog treatment. The DC flashover voltage of HTV SR decreased in the salt-fog environment. The hydrophobicity of the material deteriorated and the static contact angle (CA) became small. Under the action of electric and thermal stress, the surface of samples after salt-fog treatment became rough and porous. The absorption peak of the hydrophobic groups decreased, indicating that the molecular chain of SR material was broken, and the filler was consumed, bringing down the arc resistance of the sample. The absorption of moisture further led to insulation performance loss and then reduced the electrical strength of the material. Degradation of physicochemical properties will eventually lead to a decline in electrical strength.
Electrospinning and Post-Spun Chain Conformations of Synthetic, Hydrophobic Poly(α-amino acid)s
Authors: Devarayan Kesavan , Nakagami Souta , Suzuki Shuichi , Yuki Ichiro , Ohkawa Kousaku
Published: February 2020

Electrospinning and post-spun conformations of hydrophobic poly(α-amino acid)s are described in this study. The poly(α-amino acid)s, poly(Gly), poly(l-Ala), poly(l-Val), and poly(l-Leu) were synthesized via corresponding N-carboxy-α-amino acid anhydrides. The average molecular weight and degree of polymerization of these polymers were determined by N-terminus labeling using 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene and by viscometry in the case of poly(Gly). These poly(α-amino acid)s were electrospun from trifluoroacetic acid or trifluoroacetic acid/dichloromethane solutions. The FT-IR spectroscopy and wide-angle X-ray diffraction indicated that the electrospun poly(l-Ala) and poly(l-Leu) fibers predominantly adopts α-helical structure, whereas poly(l-Val) and poly(Gly) fibers exhibited mainly β-strand and random coil structures, respectively.
Tailoring Gellan Gum Spongy-Like Hydrogels’ Microstructure by Controlling Freezing Parameters
Authors: Moreira Helena R. , Silva Lucília P. da , Reis Rui L. , Marques Alexandra P.
Published: February 2020

Gellan gum (GG) spongy-like hydrogels have been explored for different tissue engineering (TE) applications owing to their highly attractive hydrogel-like features, and improved mechanical resilience and cell performance. Although the whole process for the preparation of these materials is well-defined, we hypothesized that variations occurring during the freezing step lead to batch-to-batch discrepancies. Aiming to address this issue, two freezing devices were tested, to prepare GG spongy-like hydrogels in a more reproducible way. The cooling and freezing rates, the nucleation time and temperature, and the end freezing time were determined at different freezing temperatures (−20, −80, and −210 °C). The efficacy of the devices was assessed by analyzing the physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties of different formulations. The cooling rate and freezing rate varied between 0.1 and 128 °C/min, depending on the temperature used and the device. The properties of spongy-like hydrogels prepared with the tested devices showed lower standard deviation in comparison to those prepared with the standard process, due to the slower freezing rate of the hydrogels. However, with this method, mean pore size was significantly lower than that with the standard method. Cell entrapment, adhesion, and viability were not affected as demonstrated with human dermal fibroblasts. This work confirmed that batch-to-batch variations are mostly due to the freezing step and that the tested devices allow fine tuning of the scaffolds’ structure and properties.
New Materials for 3D-Printing Based on Polycaprolactone with Gum Rosin and Beeswax as Additives
Authors: Pavon Cristina , Aldas Miguel , López-Martínez Juan , Ferrándiz Santiago
Published: February 2020

In this work, different materials for three-dimensional (3D)-printing were studied, which based on polycaprolactone with two natural additives, gum rosin, and beeswax. During the 3D-printing process, the bed and extrusion temperatures of each formulation were established. After, the obtained materials were characterized by mechanical, thermal, and structural properties. The results showed that the formulation with containing polycaprolactone with a mixture of gum rosin and beeswax as additive behaved better during the 3D-printing process. Moreover, the miscibility and compatibility between the additives and the matrix were concluded through the thermal assessment. The mechanical characterization established that the addition of the mixture of gum rosin and beeswax provides greater tensile strength than those additives separately, facilitating 3D-printing. In contrast, the addition of beeswax increased the ductility of the material, which makes the 3D-printing processing difficult. Despite the fact that both natural additives had a plasticizing effect, the formulations containing gum rosin showed greater elongation at break. Finally, Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy assessment deduced that polycaprolactone interacts with the functional groups of the additives.
The Novel Strategy for Increasing the Efficiency and Yield of the Bipolar Membrane Electrodialysis by the Double Conjugate Salts Stress
Authors: Wang Dong , Meng Wenqiao , Lei Yunna , Li Chunxu , Cheng Jiaji , Qu Wenjuan , Wang Guohui , Zhang Meng , Li Shaoxiang
Published: February 2020

To improve sulfuric acid recovery from sodium sulfate wastewater, a lab-scale bipolar membrane electrodialysis (BMED) process was used for the treatment of simulated sodium sulfate wastewater. In order to increase the concentration of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) generated during the process, a certain concentration of ammonium sulfate solution was added into the feed compartment. To study the influencing factors of sulfuric acid yield, we prepared different concentrations of ammonium sulfate solution, different feed solution volumes, and different membrane configurations in this experiment. As it can be seen from the results, when adding 8% (NH4)2SO4 into 15% Na2SO4 under the experimental conditions where the current density was 50 mA/cm2, the concentration of H2SO4 increased from 0.89 to 1.215 mol/L, and the current efficiency and energy consumption could be up to 60.12% and 2.59 kWh/kg, respectively. Furthermore, with the increase of the volume of the feed compartment, the concentration of H2SO4 also increased. At the same time, the configuration also affects the final concentration of the sulfuric acid; in the BP-A-C-BP (“BP” means bipolar membrane, “A” means anion exchange membrane, and “C” means cation exchange membrane; “BP-A-C-BP” means that two bipolar membranes, an anion exchange membrane, and a cation exchange membrane are alternately arranged to form a repeating unit of the membrane stack) configuration, a higher H2SO4 concentration was generated and less energy was consumed. The results show that the addition of the double conjugate salt is an effective method to increase the concentration of acid produced in the BMED process.
A Semi-Continuous PWA Model Based Optimal Control Method for Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Zhu Xinjian , Song Chunyue , Zhao Jun , Xu Zuhua
Published: February 2020

To alleviate the mode mismatch of multiple model methods for nonlinear systems when completely discrete dynamical equations are adopted, a semi-continuous piecewise affine (SCPWA) model based optimal control method is proposed. Firstly, a SCPWA model is constructed where modes evolve in continuous time and continuous states evolve in discrete time. Thanks to this model, a piecewise affine (PWA) system can switch at any time instant whereas mode switching only occurs at sample instants when a completely discrete PWA model is adopted, which improves the prediction accuracy of multi-models. Secondly, the switching condition is relaxed such that operating subspaces have overlaps and switching condition parameters are introduced. As a consequence, an optimal control problem with fixed mode switching sequence is established. Finally, a SCPWA model based model predictive control (MPC) policy is designed for nonlinear systems. The convergence of the MPC algorithm is proved. Compared with widely used mixed logical dynamic (MLD) model based methods, the proposed method not only alleviates mode mismatch, but also lightens the computing burden, hence improves the control performance and reduces the computation time. Some numerical examples are provided as well to show the efficiency of the method.
The Demulsification Properties of Cationic Hyperbranched Polyamidoamines for Polymer Flooding Emulsions and Microemulsions
Authors: Bi Yangang , Tan Zhi , Wang Liang , Li Wusong , Liu Congcong , Wang Zhantao , Liu Xiangchen , Jia Xinru
Published: February 2020

Polymer flooding emulsions and microemulsions caused by tertiary oil recovery technologies are harmful to the environment due to their excellent stability. Two cationic hyperbranched polyamidoamines (H-PAMAM), named as H-PAMAM-HA and H-PAMAM-ETA, were obtained by changing the terminal denotation agents to H-PAMAM, which was characterized by 1H NMR, FT-IR, and amine possession, thereby confirmed the modification. Samples (300 mg/L) were added to the polymer flooding emulsion (1500 mg/L oil concentration) at 30 °C for 30 min and the H-PAMAM-HA and H-PAMAM-ETA were shown to perform at 88% and 91% deoil efficiency. Additionally, the increased settling time and the raised temperature enhanced performance. For example, an oil removal ratio of 97.7% was observed after dealing with the emulsion for 30 min at 60 °C, while 98.5% deoil efficiency was obtained after 90 min at 45 °C for the 300 mg/L H-PAMAM-ETA. To determine the differences when dealing with the emulsion, the interfacial tension, ζ potential, and turbidity measurements were fully estimated. Moreover, diametrically different demulsification mechanisms were found when the samples were utilized to treat the microemulsion. The modified demulsifiers showed excellent demulsification efficiency via their obvious electroneutralization and bridge functions, while the H-PAMAM appeared to enhance the stability of the microemulsion.
Review of the Numerical Modeling of Compression Molding of Sheet Molding Compound
Authors: Alnersson Gustaf , Tahir M. Waseem , Ljung Anna-Lena , Lundström T. Staffan
Published: February 2020

A review of the numerical modeling of the compression molding of the sheet molding compound (SMC) is presented. The focus of this review is the practical difficulties of modeling cases with high fiber content, an area in which there is relatively little documented work. In these cases, the prediction of the flows become intricate due to several reasons, mainly the complex rheology of the compound and large temperature gradients, but also the orientation of fibers and the micromechanics of the interactions between the fluid and the fibers play major roles. The details of this during moldings are discussed. Special attention is given to the impact on viscosity from the high fiber volume fraction, and the various models for this. One additional area of interest is the modeling of the fiber orientation.
Establishment of Landslide Groundwater Level Prediction Model Based on GA-SVM and Influencing Factor Analysis
Authors: Cao Ying , Yin Kunlong , Zhou Chao , Ahmed Bayes
Published: February 2020

The monitoring and prediction of the landslide groundwater level is a crucial part of landslide early warning systems. In this study, Tangjiao landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir area (TGRA) in China was taken as a case study. Three groundwater level monitoring sensors were installed in different locations of the landslide. The monitoring data indicated that the fluctuation of groundwater level is significantly consistent with rainfall and reservoir level in time, but there is a lag. In addition, there is a spatial difference in the impact of reservoir levels on the landslide groundwater level. The data of two monitoring locations were selected for establishing the prediction model of groundwater. Combined with the qualitative and quantitative analysis, the influencing factors were selected, respectively, to establish the hybrid Genetic Algorithm-Support Vector Machine (GA-SVM) prediction model. The single-factor GA-SVM without considering influencing factors and the backpropagation neural network (BPNN) model were adopted to make comparisons. The results showed that the multi-factor GA-SVM performed the best, followed by multi-factor BPNN and single-factor GA-SVM. We found that the prediction accuracy can be improved by considering the influencing factor. The proposed GA-SVM model combines the advantages of each algorithm; it can effectively construct the response relationship between groundwater level fluctuations and influencing factors. Above all, the multi-factor GA-SVM is an effective method for the prediction of landslides groundwater in the TGRA.
New Equivalence Tests for Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium and Multiple Alleles
Authors: Ostrovski Vladimir
Published: February 2020

We consider testing equivalence to Hardy–Weinberg Equilibrium in case of multiple alleles. Two different test statistics are proposed for this test problem. The asymptotic distribution of the test statistics is derived. The corresponding tests can be carried out using asymptotic approximation. Alternatively, the variance of the test statistics can be estimated by the bootstrap method. The proposed tests are applied to three real data sets. The finite sample performance of the tests is studied by simulations, which are inspired by the real data sets.
Portugal 2020: An Effective Policy Platform to Promote Sustainable Territorial Development?
Authors: Medeiros Eduardo
Published: February 2020

This paper explores the implementation of European Union (EU) Cohesion Policy in Portugal during the 2014–2020 programming period (Portugal 2020) and its contribution to promoting sustainable territorial development. It starts with an anatomization of the dominant analytic dimensions of the concept of sustainable territorial development. It then examines the approved projects under Portugal 2020 and relates them to the selected five dimensions of territorial sustainable development, which include a circular economy, social environmental awareness, environmental conservation, a global governance sustainability focus, and a global spatial planning sustainability focus. The conclusions are that the Portugal 2020 goals of supporting sustainable territorial development have been, until late 2019, achieved beyond initial expectations in terms of relative allocated funding, and that the renewable energy and circular economy components have not been sufficiently explored, vis-à-vis the sustainable development needs of the country.
Changes in Physical Activity, Motor Performance, and Psychosocial Determinants of Active Behavior in Children: A Pilot School-Based Obesity Program
Authors: Morano Milena , Robazza Claudio , Rutigliano Irene , Bortoli Laura , Ruiz Montse C. , Campanozzi Angelo
Published: February 2020

The obesity epidemic and the decline of fitness among children highlights the need for suitable interventions designed to promote Physical Activity (PA) and healthy habits. The purpose of our pilot study was to assess the feasibility of a school-based program among overweight and obese children, by examining changes in their body composition, PA, physical fitness, and some psychosocial determinants of active behavior. An additional objective was to investigate the reciprocal relationship over time between PA and body image. Self-reported PA and health-related fitness tests were administered to 18 overweight and obese children (11.3 ± 0.4 years), before and after a 6-month intervention including nutritional education, skill-learning, playful physical activities, and exercise training. Participants were assessed on body composition, perceived physical ability, body image, and pleasant and unpleasant psychobiosocial states towards PA. After treatment, children showed decreased body mass index, body fat percentage, arm and waist circumferences, and skinfold thickness. Actual and perceived physical abilities, body image, and PA also improved over six months. Cross-lagged correlations suggest body image to be an antecedent to being physically active. Results showed that the multi-component school program may have sustainable benefits in reducing adiposity indicators and improving exercise adherence, physical fitness, and psychological well-being.
Biodeterioration Patterns and Their Interpretation for Potential Applications to Stone Conservation: A Hypothesis from Allelopathic Inhibitory Effects of Lichens on the Caestia Pyramid (Rome)
Authors: Caneva Giulia , Fidanza Maria Rosaria , Tonon Chiara , Favero-Longo Sergio Enrico
Published: February 2020

The colonisation of stone by different organisms often leaves biodeterioration patterns (BPs) on the surfaces even if their presence is no longer detectable. Peculiar weathering patterns on monuments and rocks, such as pitting phenomena, were recognised as a source of information on past colonisers and environmental conditions. The evident inhibition areas for new bio-patinas observed on the marble blocks of the Caestia Pyramid in Rome, recognisable as tracks of previous colonisations, seem a source for developing new natural products suitable for restoration activities. To hypothesise past occurring communities and species, which gave rise to such BPs, we carried out both in situ observations and analyses of the rich historical available iconography (mainly photographs). Moreover, we analysed literature on the lichen species colonising carbonate stones used in Roman sites. Considering morphology, biochemical properties and historical data on 90 lichen species already reported in Latium archaeological sites, we suppose lichen species belonging to the genus Circinaria (Aspicilia s.l.) to be the main aetiological agent of such peculiar BPs. These results seem relevant to highlight the long-lasting allelopathic properties of some lichen substances potentially applicable as a natural product to control colonisation, improving the environmental and economical sustainability of stone restoration.
The Right Amount of Technology in School Buildings
Authors: Auer Thomas , Vohlidka Philipp , Zettelmeier Christine
Published: February 2020

What is an adequate school building nowadays and which amount of technology does it need? How high is the indoor comfort in terms of thermal, visual, hygienic, and acoustical comfort? Are there technical aspects that stand out to other solutions? How do users feel and act in the buildings? For this purpose, the Chair compared, in total, twelve selected modern, older, and renovated school buildings from different building age groups. For the comparison, it was essential to intensively analyze each of the twelve schools. This included visiting the schools, talking with the participating architects, specialist planners, builders, and school managers, procuring and analyzing planning documents and, where available, publications and reports, performing simulations and measurements in the classrooms, and surveying the buildings’ users. The predominant energy demand in schools is the energy expenditure for heating and cooling the air, especially for heating the air in the winter. Nevertheless, it turns out that from a purely energy-focused perspective, mechanical ventilation cannot be justified. It is also evident that transmission heat losses play a negligible role in school construction, which is why the “passive house” as a goal for renovations must be called into question.
Environmental Collaborative Governance Degree of Government, Corporation, and Public
Authors: Duan Xin , Dai Shengli , Yang Rui , Duan Ziwei , Tang Yanhong
Published: February 2020

The Chinese government has attached great importance to environmental collaborative governance recently to cope with rising pollution problems. How to measure environmental collaborative governance degree is a key issue to evaluate the level and progress of the implementation of this great ambition. This paper designs an index system for measuring environmental collaborative governance degree, covering dimensions of government, corporation and the public. The entropy method is applied to measure the change of environmental governance capacity. The coupling coordination model is adapted to evaluate the environmental collaborative governance degree of government–corporation–public. Empirical analysis is conducted by using the panel data of 30 provinces of China for the years 2006–2015. The results are provided and discussed from various dimensions. Suggestions are put forward accordingly. This paper focuses on developing a method for measuring environmental collaborative governance degree and is meaningful for enlightening future research about the effect of collaboration on environmental governance.
Upcycling Phosphorus Recovered from Anaerobically Digested Dairy Manure to Support Production of Vegetables and Flowers
Authors: Porterfield Katherine K. , Joblin Robert , Neher Deborah A. , Curtis Michael , Dvorak Steve , Rizzo Donna M. , Faulkner Joshua W. , Roy Eric D.
Published: February 2020

Dissolved air flotation (DAF) separates phosphorus (P)-rich fine solids from anaerobically digested dairy manure, creating opportunities to export surplus P to the marketplace as a bagged plant food product. Seedlings of tomato and marigold were amended at various volume per volume (v/v) ratios with plant foods consisting of fine solids upcycled (i.e., transformed into a higher quality product) by drying and blending with other organic residuals. A plate competition assay was conducted to assess the fine solids’ potential to suppress the plant pathogen Rhizoctonia solani. Plant foods were comprised of 2.0–2.1% N, 0.8–0.9% P and 0.6–0.8% K. Extractions indicated that plant foods contained a mixture of plant-available and slow-release P. At 6% v/v plant food, dry biomass of marigold and tomato were six-times greater than the unamended control and not significantly different from a market alternative treatment. Fine solids exhibited negligible potential to suppress R. solani. This study indicates that DAF-separated fine solids could be used to support horticulture, providing information for design of a circular economy approach to dairy manure nutrient management. Life cycle assessment and business model development for this nutrient recovery strategy are necessary next steps to further guide sustainability efforts.
Impacts of Climate Change and Different Crop Rotation Scenarios on Groundwater Nitrate Concentrations in a Sandy Aquifer
Authors: Saleem Shoaib , Levison Jana , Parker Beth , Martin Ralph , Persaud Elisha
Published: February 2020

Nitrate in groundwater is a major concern in agricultural sub-watersheds. This study assessed the impacts of future climate and agricultural land use changes on groundwater nitrate concentrations in an agricultural sub-watershed (Norfolk site) in southern Ontario, Canada. A fully integrated hydrologic model (HydroGeoSphere) was used in combination with the root zone water quality model (RZWQM2) (shallow zone) to develop water flow and nitrate transport models. Three climate change models and three crop rotations (corn-soybean rotation, continuous corn, corn-soybean-winter wheat-red clover rotation) were used to evaluate the potential impact on groundwater quality (nine predictive scenarios). The selected climate change scenarios yielded less water availability in the future period than in the reference period (past conditions). The simulated nitrate nitrogen (Nitrate-N) concentrations were lower during the future period than the reference period. The continuous corn land use scenario produced higher Nitrate-N concentrations compared to the base case (corn-soybean rotation). However, the best management practices (BMP) scenario (corn-soybean-winter wheat-red clover rotation) produced significantly lower groundwater nitrate concentrations. BMPs, such as the one examined herein, should be adopted to reduce potential negative impacts of future climate change on groundwater quality, especially in vulnerable settings. These findings are important for water and land managers, to mitigate future impacts of nutrient transport on groundwater quality under a changing climate.
Antiviral Ranpirnase TMR-001 Inhibits Rabies Virus Release and Cell-to-Cell Infection In Vitro
Authors: Smith Todd G. , Jackson Felix R. , Morgan Clint N. , Carson William C. , Martin Brock E. , Gallardo-Romero Nadia , Ellison James A. , Greenberg Lauren , Hodge Thomas , Squiquera Luis , Sulley Jamie , Olson Victoria A. , Hutson Christina L.
Published: February 2020

Currently, no rabies virus-specific antiviral drugs are available. Ranpirnase has strong antitumor and antiviral properties associated with its ribonuclease activity. TMR-001, a proprietary bulk drug substance solution of ranpirnase, was evaluated against rabies virus in three cell types: mouse neuroblastoma, BSR (baby hamster kidney cells), and bat primary fibroblast cells. When TMR-001 was added to cell monolayers 24 h preinfection, rabies virus release was inhibited for all cell types at three time points postinfection. TMR-001 treatment simultaneous with infection and 24 h postinfection effectively inhibited rabies virus release in the supernatant and cell-to-cell spread with 50% inhibitory concentrations of 0.2–2 nM and 20–600 nM, respectively. TMR-001 was administered at 0.1 mg/kg via intraperitoneal, intramuscular, or intravenous routes to Syrian hamsters beginning 24 h before a lethal rabies virus challenge and continuing once per day for up to 10 days. TMR-001 at this dose, formulation, and route of delivery did not prevent rabies virus transit from the periphery to the central nervous system in this model (n = 32). Further aspects of local controlled delivery of other active formulations or dose concentrations of TMR-001 or ribonuclease analogues should be investigated for this class of drugs as a rabies antiviral therapeutic.