bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immobilization of Uranium at Nanoscale by Bacillus cereus 12-2 at Different U(VI) Concentration
Authors: Zhang Jian , Chen Hongxin , Song Jianning , Deng Hong , Chen Zhi , Lin Zhang
Published: May 2019

Uranium can be immobilized as nanoscale minerals by biomineralization under aerobic conditions. Current researches on nonreductive biomineralization of U(VI) mainly focus on revealing the mechanisms associated with functional groups and enzymes. However, studies on the effect of initial
uranium concentration on the uranium bio-immobilization are relatively rare. This paper researched the immobilization of U(VI) at different concentrations by Bacillus cereus 12-2. Adsorption experiments showed that the adsorption equilibrium was rapidly reached within 10 min when U(VI)
concentration was 25 mg/L while over 2 h when U(VI) concentration was 200 mg/L. The biological adsorption capacity improved gradually from 24.68 to 163.17 mg/g (dry weight) as U(VI) concentration increased, but the removal rate of uranium decreased from about 100% to 80%. X-ray diffraction
(XRD) showed that nanoscale uramphite ((NH4)(UO2)PO4·3H2O) formation time was 4, 4, 12 and 24 h, respectively when initial U(VI) concentration was 25, 50, 75 and 100 mg/L. No mineral was formed after reaction for 24 h when U(VI) concentration was 200
mg/L. Uramphite had better peaks in spectrum after 50 mg/L U(VI) had interacted with Bacillus cereus 12-2 for 4 h. XRD, SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and TEM (transmission electron microscopy) indicated that a large number of amorphous uranium-containing particles appeared extracellularly
after 10 min and nanoscale uramphite formed intracellularly after 4 h when uranium concentration was 50 mg/L. This study showed that the time required for adsorption equilibrium and mineralization by Bacillus cereus 12-2 was shorter when the initial U(VI) concentration was lower within
a certain range. This phenomenon could be attributed to the increase of relative content of functional groups and the decrease of cytotoxicity of uranium at low concentrations. This work had certain guiding significance for further understanding the mechanism of uranium biomineralization and
the application of Bacillus cereus 12-2 under actual uranium-contaminated environments.
Encapsulation of Silver Nanoparticles in Polylactic Acid or Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) and Their Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activities
Authors: Guerrero Daissy Julieth Paredes , Bonilla Jhon Jhamilton Artunduaga , López Claudia Cristina Ortiz , Sáez Rodrigo Gonzalo Torres
Published: May 2019

Encapsulation with biodegradable polymers is an alternative to reduce adverse effects and improve the physicochemical properties of metallic nanoparticles. In this study, spherical polymeric nanoparticles with an average size of 200 nm loaded with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were obtained.
The antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli O157:H7, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and yeasts as Candida albicans, Candida parapsilosis and Candida guilliermondii was determined. MIC90 values of nanocomposites were between
0.01 to 1 μg/mL, potentialized effect up to 500 times compared to free AgNPs. In addition, cytotoxic effect on 50% of murine fibroblast (CC50) was obtained at a mean concentration of 9.57 μg/mL of AgNPs (up to ~1000 times higher than MIC90). Consequently,
the polymeric nanocomposites loaded with AgNPs are a potential alternative in the development of new biocide agents on Candida species and pathogenic bacteria at non-toxic concentrations for mammalian cells such as murine fibroblasts.
Surfactant Assisted Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles: Drug Loading and In Vitro Leaching Kinetics and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Padmanabhan Varun Prasath , Kulandaivelu Ravichandran , Panneer Devendrapandi Santhana , Vivekananthan S. , Sagadevan Suresh , Lett J. Anita
Published: May 2019

In the present investigation, extremely fine Hydroxyapatite (HAP) powder was prepared through chemical precipitation technique under the influence of a nonionic surfactant (Brij 35-Polyoxyethylene lauryl ether). The samples were sintered at 800 °C to obtain highly pure HAP phase.
The functional group present in the HAP powder was confirmed by using Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy. The change in Phase transformation, the crystallite size and the percentage of crystallinity of the synthesized sample were studied by X-ray diffractometer technique. The
Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM) and High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) were used for the structural analysis of porous rod-shaped HAP crystal. Further, drug loading and In Vitro leaching kinetics were conducted for antibiotics-ciproflaxin (CPF).
Antimicrobial activity against S. aureus (Gram-positive bacterium) and E. coli (Gram-negative bacterium) was executed for pure HAP as well as for drug loaded HAP.
Cu-Doped SnO2 Nanoparticles: Synthesis and Properties
Authors: Sagadevan Suresh , Chowdhury Zaira Zaman , Johan Mohd. Rafie Bin , Aziz Fauziah Abdul , Roselin L. Selva , Podder Jiban , Lett J. Anita , Selvin Rosilda
Published: May 2019

In this work, a simple, co-precipitation technique was used to prepare un-doped, pure tin oxide (SnO2). As synthesized SnO2 nanoparticles were doped with Cu2+ ions. Detailed characterization was carried out to observe the crystalline phase, morphological
features and chemical constituents with opto-electrical and magnetic properties of the synthesized nanoparticles (NPs). X-ray diffraction analysis showed the existence of crystalline, tetragonal structure of SnO2. Both the sample synthesized here showed different crystalline morphology.
The band gap energy (Eg) of the synthesized sample was estimated and it was found to decrease from 3.60 to 3.26 eV. The band gap energy reduced due to increase in Cu2+ dopant amount inside the SnO2 lattice. Optical properties were analyzed using absorption
spectra and Photoluminescence (PL) spectra. It was observed that Cu2+ ions incorporated SnO2 NPs exhibited more degradation efficiencies for Rhodamine B (RhB) dye compared to un-doped sample under UV-Visible irradiation. The dielectric characteristics of un-doped, pure
and Cu2+ incorporated SnO2 nanoparticles were studied at different frequency region under different temperatures. The ac conductivity and impedance analysis of pure and Cu2+ incorporated SnO2 nanoparticles was also studied. The magnetic properties
of the synthesized samples were analysed. Both the sample showed ferromagnetic properties. The research indicated that the Cu2+ ions doping can make the sample a promising candidate for using in the field of optoelectronics, magneto electronics, and microwave devices.
Hydrothermally Synthesized Li4Ti5O12 Nanotubes Anode Material with Enhanced Li-Ion Battery Performances
Authors: Zhao Xiao-Chong , Yang Pan , Ding Tao , Yang Li-Jun , Mai Xianmin , Chen Huiyuan , Wang Gang , Ma Yong , Wang Xiaojing , Murugadoss Vignesh , Angaiah Subramania , Wang Ya-Ping , Liu Hu , Guo Zhan-Hu
Published: May 2019

Hollow Li4Ti5O12 nanotubes were synthesized by stirring in a heated oil bath using P25 as titanium source and lithium hydroxide as lithium source. The as-prepared samples displayed a nanotube structure, with diameter of about 20~50 nm and length of 0.4
μm. The specific surface area of as-prepared samples reached 153.2 m2g−1. It is demonstrated that the Li4Ti5O12 nanotubes with improved performance can be obtained by hollow structure and high specific surface area. In
consequence, it delivered a high reversible initial discharge capacity of 174.2 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C rate. A stable capacity of 170.9 mAh g−1 was delivered when the rate was reduced back to 0.5 C, suggesting good structural stability of the nanocable, high reversibility
even after high rate charge– discharge, and good cycle stability. In addition, a capacity of 134.9 mAh g−1 and 98 mAhg−1 could be retained at a high rate of 5 C and 10 C, indicating excellent rate performances.
Deciphering the Adsorption Behavior of Volatile Organic Compounds with Electrospun Polyacrylonitrile/Molecular Sieve Nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Yi-Xin , Tao Hong , Chen Min-Nan , Ling-Shao  , Shang Guang-Feng , Yu Deng-Guang , Chang Chang-Tang
Published: May 2019

In this study, a new type of molecular sieve/polyacrylonitrile fiber (M-PAN) was prepared by electrospinning to adsorb atmospheric volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The suitable content of molecular sieve in nanocomposites was also determined for achieving maximum VOCs adsorption capacity.
SEM, TEM and N2 adsorption/desorption analyzer were performed for characterization of the surface morphology, structural properties, surface area and pore size. A part of molecular sieve is exposed on the fiber surface where VOCs can be adsorbed efficiently in a short time. Acetone
was used as a challenge pollutant to evaluate the adsorption of VOCs at different recycling times and types of electrospinning nanofibers. The adsorption capacity of 6M-PAN (60% weight of molecular sieve) nanofiber reached 58.2 μg g−1 and the reused nanofibers nearly
had the same adsorption capacity as the newly prepared nanofibers after several times of recirculation.
Orange Fragrance with Sustained-Release Properties Prepared by Nanoethosomal Encapsulation of Natural Orange Essential Oil
Authors: Chen Qing , Jiang Heyuan , Jin Peng , Zhang Jianyong , Wang Weiwei , Wang Kai , Wu Min , Qin Dingkui , Du Qizhen
Published: May 2019

There is an upsurge of interest in improving the stability and prolong the scent holding time of fragrances in cosmetic industry. In this study, to encapsulate the orange essential oils (OEO), nanoethosomes were constructed with optimized proportions of ethanol, water, soybean phosphatidylcholine
(SPC), Tween 80, and palm oil sucrose esters (PSE). The controlled-release behavior of nanoethosomes was then studied concerning physicochemical stability, microstructure, and olfactory sensation. The sustained-release effectiveness of the nanoethosomal fragrances was influenced by particle
size and OEO amount of specific formula. Herein, there was a positive correlation between particle size and sustained-release effectiveness. In particular, the mean diameter of nanoethosomal orange fragrances (nano-OFs)–prepared by EO-ethanol-water-SPC-Tween 80-PSE (3–7:25:72–68:2:1.0:0.1)
and 3%, 5%, and 7% OEO–was 68.6±3.6, 79.5±4.5 and 87.3±6.9 nm, respectively. The results of olfactory sensation and GC-MS analysis showed that these fragrances could sustainedly release the aromatic compounds to yield satisfactory smell longer than that of the conventional
orange fragrance. Furthermore, the nano-OF made of 5% EO yield a satisfactory smell more than 3 h, which was 3 times of that of the conventional orange fragrance. This fragrance was stable when stored at 4 °C (>1 year) and 25 °C (>10 months). The knowledge gained from this study
will be helpful to develop nanoethosomal fragrances or perfumes for commercial use.
A Single Step Fast Track Methodology for In-Situ Detection of Hazardous Melamine by Using Highly Sensitive Polyphenolics Modified Nanogold Probe
Authors: Arshad Anila , Akram Raheel , Rana Shahid Iqbal , Hussain Ghulam , Dar Sami Ullah , Iqbal Saleem
Published: May 2019

A single step fast track method is proposed to determine melamine based on strong hydrogen bonding between exocyclic amine group in melamine moiety and hydroxyl group of tannic acid (TA); acting as reducing and functionalizing agent for synthesis of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). The
proposed strategy is facile and highly time saving; as the detection of melamine with labelfree gold nanoparticles was accomplished within five minutes. The colorimetric probe exhibits high detection limit of 8 nM for melamine determination in raw milk, which is very low as compared to other
capping ligands employed for Au NPs such as borohydride, citrate and 3,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid. The results show a highly sensitive linear range (0.03–2.5 μM) between absorption ratio and concentration of melamine with a correlation coefficient of 0.991. Proposed methodology
is proven effective for on-site screening without using costly instrumentation.
Rapid Nucleation of Reduced Graphene Oxide-Supported Palladium Electrocatalysts for Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Ng Jen Chao , Tan Chou Yong , Ong Boon Hoong , Matsuda Atsunori , Basirun Wan Jefrey , Tan Wai Kian , Singh Ramesh , Yap Boon Kar
Published: May 2019

Small sized electrocatalysts, which can be obtained by rapid nucleation and high supersaturation are imperative for outstanding methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). Conventional microwave synthesis processes of electrocatalysts include ultrasonication, stirring, pH adjustment, and microwave
irradiation of the precursor mixture. Ethylene glycol (EG), which serves as a reductant and solvent was added during the ultrasonication or stirring stage. However, this step and pH adjustment resulted in unintended multi-stage gradual nucleation. In this study, the microwave reduction approach
was used to induce rapid nucleation and high supersaturation in order to fabricate small-sized reduced graphene oxide-supported palladium (Pd/rGO) electrocatalysts via the delayed addition of EG, elimination of the pH adjustment step, addition of sodium carbonate (Na2CO3),
prior microwave irradiation of the EG mixed with Na2CO3, and addition of room temperature precursor mixture. Besides its role as a second reducing agent, the addition of Na2CO3 was primarily intended to generate an alkaline condition, which is essential
for the high-performance of electrocatalysts. Moreover, the microwave irradiation of the EG and Na2CO3 mixture generated highly reactive free radicals that facilitate rapid nucleation. Meanwhile, the room temperature precursor mixture increased supersaturation. Results
showed improved electrochemically active surface area (78.97 m2 g−1, 23.79% larger), MOR (434.49 mA mg−1, 37.96% higher) and stability.
Layer-by-Layer Cathodic Deposition of Ni/Ni(OH)2 Particles on Steel Gauze Electrode for High-Performance Supercapacitor Application
Authors: Karimpour Ahmad , Norouzi Parviz , Ganjali Mohammad Reza
Published: May 2019

Layer-by-layer of Ni/Ni(OH)2 particles were deposited on Steel Gauze (SG) electrode via cathodic electrodeposition. The system with two electrodes was selected for electrodeposition in the galvanostatic condition. Electrodeposition of the first layer of Nickel was conducted
in the electrochemical cell with an SG substrate as a cathode. This electrode was fixed between two parallel graphite anodes and electrodeposition was performed from a mixture of NiCl2, NH4Cl, NaCl solution. Electrodeposition of the second layer of Ni(OH)2
on the Ni layer which has been formed in the first step, was carried out in the same way from a solution containing Ni(NO3)2. TG, XRD and SEM techniques were used for the characterization of the prepared SG/Ni/Ni(OH)2 electrode. The prepared SG/Ni/Ni(OH)2
electrode was analyzed by electrochemical techniques such as Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge–discharge and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The SG/Ni/Ni(OH)2 electrode demonstrated high specific capacity (1308 C g−1 at the scan rate
of 5 mV s−1) and excellent cycling ability (8.9% capacity decay at the current density of 50 A g−1 after 1000 cycle).
Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Organic Semiconductor Indacenedithiophene Derivative and the Corresponding Langmuir-Blodgett Thin Films
Authors: Alvarez-Venicio Violeta , Arcos-Ramos Rafael O. , Hernández-Rojas José Alfonso , Guerra-Pulido Jaime Octavio , Basiuk Vladimir A. , Rivera Margarita , Carreón-Castro María del Pilar
Published: May 2019

The synthesis of a novel indacenedithiophene derivative (IDT-DPA) is described, which exhibits semiconducting behavior. Its properties were measured by means of UV-visible and fluorescence spectroscopies using toluene as solvent. An extinction molar coefficient of 2.05×104
M−1 cm−1 and a Stokes shift of 50 nm were obtained. A theoretical study was performed using the density functional theory, from which HOMO–LUMO band gap of 1.711 eV was calculated. IDT-DPA was deposited on the water-air interface to form Langmuir monolayers.
π-A curves and hysteresis were measured showing reversibility behavior. The monolayers were transferred to glass substrates as Langmuir-Blodgett thin films. Their morphological properties were characterized by using scanning electron and atomic force microscopy, which showed that
the films tend to form clusters with a homogeneous distribution. Absorption and emission spectra of the films were measured, from which the optical band gap and Stocks shift were derived. Based on the electronic properties and light emission spectra of IDT-DPA, this compound can be proposed
for the applications in organic lightemitting diodes and other organic semiconductor devices.
Process-Oriented Evaluation of Climate and Weather Forecasting Models
Authors: Maloney Eric D. , Gettelman Andrew , Ming Yi , Neelin J. David , Barrie Daniel , Mariotti Annarita , Chen C.-C. , Coleman Danielle R. B. , Kuo Yi-Hung , Singh Bohar , Annamalai H. , Berg Alexis , Booth James F. , Camargo Suzana J. , Dai Aiguo , Gonzalez Alex , Hafner Jan , Jiang Xianan , Jing Xianwen , Kim Daehyun , Kumar Arun , Moon Yumin , Naud Catherine M. , Sobel Adam H. , Suzuki Kentaroh , Wang Fuchang , Wang Junhong , Wing Allison A. , Xu Xiaobiao , Zhao Ming
Published: May 2019

Realistic climate and weather prediction models are necessary to produce confidence in projections of future climate over many decades and predictions for days to seasons. These models must be physically justified and validated for multiple weather and climate processes. A key opportunity to accelerate model improvement is greater incorporation of process-oriented diagnostics (PODs) into standard packages that can be applied during the model development process, allowing the application of diagnostics to be repeatable across multiple model versions and used as a benchmark for model improvement. A POD characterizes a specific physical process or emergent behavior that is related to the ability to simulate an observed phenomenon. This paper describes the outcomes of activities by the Model Diagnostics Task Force (MDTF) under the NOAA Climate Program Office (CPO) Modeling, Analysis, Predictions and Projections (MAPP) program to promote development of PODs and their application to climate and weather prediction models. MDTF and modeling center perspectives on the need for expanded process-oriented diagnosis of models are presented. Multiple PODs developed by the MDTF are summarized, and an open-source software framework developed by the MDTF to aid application of PODs to centers’ model development is presented in the context of other relevant community activities. The paper closes by discussing paths forward for the MDTF effort and for community process-oriented diagnosis.
Seasonal Predictability and Change of Large-Scale Summer Precipitation Patterns over the Northeast United States
Authors: Ahn Kuk-Hyun , Steinschneider Scott
Published: May 2019

This study examines space–time patterns of summer daily rainfall variability across the Northeast United States, with a focus on historical trends and the potential for long-lead predictability. A hidden Markov model based on daily data is used to define six weather states that represent distinct patterns of rainfall across the region, and composites are used to examine atmospheric circulation during each state. The states represent the occurrence of region-wide dry and wet conditions associated with a large-scale ridge and trough over the Northeast, respectively, as well as inland and coastal storm tracks. There is a positive trend in the frequency of the weather state associated with heavy, regionwide rainfall, which is mirrored by a decreasing trend in the frequency of stationary ridges and regionwide dry conditions. The frequency of state occurrences is also examined for historical Northeast droughts. Two primary drought types emerge that are characterized by region-wide dry conditions linked to a persistent ridge and an eastward-shifted storm track associated with light precipitation along the coastline. Finally, composites of May sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) prior to summers with high and low frequencies of each weather state are used to assess long-lead predictability. These composites are compared against similar composites based on regional anomalies in low streamflow conditions [June–August 7-day low flows (SDLFs)]. Results indicate that springtime SSTs, particularly those in the Caribbean Sea and tropical North Atlantic Ocean, provide some predictability for summers with above-average precipitation and SDLFs, but SSTs provide little information on the occurrence of drought conditions across the Northeast.
L’infinita vanità del tutto. Sul politico e giuridico nel pensiero di Leopardi
Authors: Scerbo Alberto
Published: May 2019

L’approfondimento del rapporto duale tra natura e ragione, da cui origina la relazione tra poesia e filosofia, costituisce il viatico per un’indagine riguardante il pensiero di Leopardi in ordine al problema politico e giuridico. Premesso, così, lo scarto esistente tra stato di natura e stato di società, si analizzano le diverse forme sociali, all’interno di un discorso che propone il confronto critico tra antichità e modernità e senza discostarsi dal disegno della storia. Nella consapevolezza di ricondurre il tema politico ad una dimensione di autenticità, in cui la ragione sia integrata dalla natura, si procede poi ad una riflessione sulle forme di governo, distinguendo tra piano teoretico e piano storico. La scientificità propria della modernità detta l’atteggiamento di fondo leopardiano nei confronti del diritto e motiva la messa in discussione dell’esistenza della legge naturale, ma anche la valutazione mitica dell’idea di giustizia. L’approccio venato da un sostanziale realismo materialistico impedisce di ricercare significati profondi nelle dinamiche giuridiche e finisce per connettere l’efficacia del diritto al mero egoismo individualistico. Si rimarcano i limiti insuperabili nel funzionamento del diritto, sia di tipo funzionale che strutturale, e si rileva la distanza del fenomeno giuridico dal mondo della natura, con quanto ne consegue su ogni eventuale aspirazione all’universalità.
Bisphenol-A benzoxazine and cycloaliphatic epoxy copolymer for composite processing by resin infusion
Authors: Barjasteh E , Gouni S , Sutanto C , Narongdej P
Published: May 2019

The process and high-temperature performance of bisphenol-A based benzoxazine were tailored by copolymerizing with bi-functional cycloaliphatic epoxy resin in order to be used as a matrix for the advanced composite fabrication. The melt viscosity, cure kinetics, thermo-mechanical, and tensile properties of the systems with various cycloaliphatic epoxy resin and benzoxazine concentrations were studied using rheometer, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analyzer, and micro-tensile tester, respectively. Mixtures with cycloaliphatic epoxy resin concentration greater than 25 wt.% provided a suitable viscosity for composite processing by resin infusion. The isothermal and nonisothermal cure kinetics of the benzoxazine and cycloaliphatic epoxy resin reaction was studied. The predicted kinetic curves based on Kamal and Sourour phenomenological reaction model expanded with a diffusion factor resulted in an agreement with the experimental kinetic curves. The investigation of copolymers with various mixture compositions showed an increase of 56% in glass-transition temperature ([Formula: see text] and 79% in cross-linking density by increasing epoxy concentration up to 40 wt.% in comparison with homopolymerized benzoxazine.
Stiffness and permeability multi-objective optimization of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic mesostructures using homogenization method
Authors: Matsuzaki Ryosuke , Ishikawa Tomohiro , Okabe Tomonaga , Oya Yutaka , Yashiro Shigeki
Published: May 2019

This paper presents a stiffness and permeability multi-objective optimization method for carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic mesostructures based on a homogenization method. To reduce the computational cost of dealing with multiple design variables for complicated fiber mesostructures, we generate and extract effective design variables from optimization results derived from a smaller number of design variables. We applied the proposed method to optimization of the in-plane and out-of-plane stiffness and permeability of non-crimp fabrics. The optimization results showed that the application of effective design variables enabled attainment of an improved elastic modulus and permeability. From investigations of the obtained optimized design, we clarified the trade-off relationship between the elastic modulus and permeability, and elucidated the effects of dimensions of non-crimp fabric mesostructures on the elastic modulus and permeability.
Plain para-aramid/phenolic multiwall carbon nanotubes prepreg/multistiched preform composites: Experimental characterization of mode-I toughness
Authors: Bilisik K , Sapanci E
Published: May 2019

The fracture toughness (mode-I) properties of nanostitched para-aramid/phenolic multiwall carbon nanotube prepreg composites were investigated. The fracture toughness (GIC) of the stitching and nanostitched composites showed 42-fold and 41-fold (beam theory), 18-fold and 21-fold (modified beam theory) increase compared to the control, respectively. The prepreg para-aramid stitching yarn and nanostitched yarn were dominant parameters. The toughness resistance to arrest crack growth in the nanostitched composite was primarily due to nanostitching fiber bridging and pull-out, and was secondarily due to nanotubes and biaxial fiber bridging and pull-out. The failed surfaces of the nanostitched and stitching composites had tensile filament failures in the aramid stitching fibers where filament/matrix/nanotube debonding and axial filament fibrillar splitting were found. The results indicated that stitching yarn and the nanotubes arrested the crack propagation. Therefore, the nanostitched and stitched para-aramid/phenolic composites displayed a better damage resistance performance compared to those of the control or nanotube composites.
Co-milling-assisted exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets filler introduction in polyethylene and alumina composites
Authors: Tan Sheng Cai , Chan Jimmy KW , Loh Kian Ping
Published: May 2019

This paper aims to investigate the effect of co-milling-assisted exfoliation of graphite into polyethylene and alumina matrices on the mechanical properties of the composites. Tensile mechanical properties of composite materials based on polyethylene reinforced with graphite and graphite-derived fillers at 0–0.75 wt% loading were investigated, while hardness and flexural properties of alumina composites with 0.25 wt% loading of the same additives were assessed. Exfoliated graphite, applied at 0.25–0.75 wt% in pre-exfoliated form or in a co-milling-assisted fashion, has been demonstrated to be effective in enhancing the tensile strength of polyethylene composites. Similar enhancement in hardness and flexural properties was observed in alumina composites with 0.25 wt% loading of the exfoliated graphite. Co-milling-assisted exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets additive introduction has been found to effect a more desirable mechanical properties enhancement in the composites investigated in this study.
Communications Technology and Terrorism
Authors: Mahmood Rafat , Jetter Michael
Published: May 2019

By facilitating the flow of information in society, communications technology (CT; e.g., newspapers, radio, television, the Internet) can help terrorists to (i) spread their message, (ii) recruit followers, and (iii) coordinate among group members. However, CT also facilitates monitoring and arresting terrorists. This article formulates the hypothesis that a society’s level of CT is systematically related to terrorism. We introduce a simple theoretical framework, suggesting that terrorism first becomes more attractive with a rise in CT, but then decreases, following an inverted U shape. Accessing data for 199 countries from 1970 to 2014, we find evidence consistent with these predictions: terrorism peaks at intermediate ranges of CT and corresponding magnitudes are sizable. Our estimations control for a range of potentially confounding factors, as well as country fixed effects and year fixed effects. Results are robust to a battery of alternative specifications and placebo regressions. We find no evidence of a potential reporting bias explaining our findings.
Major court and tribunal decisions in Australia in 2018
Authors: Landau Ingrid , Allen Dominique
Published: May 2019

The year 2018 saw significant tribunal and court decisions concerning the definition of ‘casual’ for the purposes of the National Employment Standards, the obligations of labour hire employers, and the employment status of food delivery drivers in the gig economy. This review also covers a number of significant changes to awards made by the Fair Work Commission as part of its 4-yearly award review; a Full Federal Court decision about the extent to which a small group of employees genuinely agreed to approve an enterprise agreement. An unusual tribunal decision about an employee who was assumed to have a disability is noted. Finally, the review considers several significant judicial decisions on accessorial liability and penalites under the Fair Work Act.
Employer and employer association matters in Australia in 2018
Authors: Thornthwaite Louise , Sheldon Peter
Published: May 2019

For employers and employer associations, 2018 was in part a year of submissions to government inquiries, the 4-yearly modern wage review and the minimum wage review. Issues of numerical flexibility, including casual work, the gig economy and labour hire, also consumed much attention. It was also a year in which public discontent with the business world, particularly with big business, in relation to industrial relations and broader socio-political issues, and the questioning of its social licence to operate have escalated. In examining the major issues that concerned employers and their associations during the year, this article also discusses the pressures building for them in expressing and promoting their industrial relations agendas in response to a looming federal election, dynamic trade union campaigning and growing public discontent with the industrial relations system in its current form.
Introduction to the Cognitive Abilities Account for the Reminiscence Bump in the Temporal Distribution of Autobiographical Memory
Authors: Janssen Steve M. J.
Published: May 2019

People tend to recall more specific personal events from adolescence and early adulthood than from other lifetime periods, a finding known as the reminiscence bump. Several explanations have suggested that events from the reminiscence bump are especially emotional, important, or positive, but studies using cue words have not found support for these claims. An alternative account postulates that cognitive abilities function optimally in adolescence and early adulthood, which may cause more memories to be stored in those lifetime periods. Although other studies have previously discussed the cognitive abilities account as a possible explanation for the reminiscence bump, it was only recently shown that cognitive abilities are indeed related to autobiographical memory performance. When this recent finding is combined with previous findings that cognitive abilities as well as autobiographical memory function optimally in adolescence and early adulthood, they suggest that the cognitive abilities account is a promising explanation for the reminiscence bump in the temporal distribution of word-cued memories. However, because the account does not aim to explain the reminiscence bump in the distribution of highly significant events, it should be regarded as complementary to the existing accounts.
Comparative study of viscose yarn properties spun with a softening device and pressure plate
Authors: Liu Keshuai , Xu Duo , Wei Jiang , Ni Junlong , Yang Shengming , Xu Xiaoguang , Li Wan , Zhang Xinling , Deng Bo , Xu Weilin
Published: May 2019

In order to reduce energy consumption and further improve the performance of viscose yarns, this study introduced a collaborative control method to improve spun yarn performance by contacting the spinning strand with both a softening device and a pressure plate. In this study, we analyze the improving mechanism of spun yarn performance using the softening device and pressure plate. The results show that thermal insulation layer formed between the softening device and pressure plate could heat the yarns in all directions to further re-wrap out-exposed hairiness into the main body of yarns and save energy consumption. Four groups of 19.7 tex viscose yarns were spun with different collaborative apparatus (with and without the softening device or pressure plate). Four groups of viscose yarns were tested in terms of hairiness, unevenness, and tensile property. Moreover, the experimental results show that collaborative apparatus with the softening device and pressure plate could significantly improve yarn performance, including CV value, hairiness, break elongation, and breaking strength to 11.3%, 18.94, 12.9%, and 311.0 cN, respectively.
Treated knitted fabric for hip protective pads for elderly women. Part II. Performance relevant to thermal comfort
Authors: Wardiningsih Wiah , Troynikov Olga
Published: May 2019

This paper describes Part II of a study of hip protective pads made from spacer fabric treated with shear thickening fluid (STF). Hip fractures are a substantial contributor to morbidity and mortality in the elderly, and incidence is rising worldwide. Hip protective pads reduce fractures, but wearing adherence is poor. Pads made from breathable and comfortable fabrics can increase adherence and prevent more hip fractures. In this research, warp-knitted spacer fabrics were treated with STF using one of two methods. Treatment I involved STF and room temperature vulcanizing (RTV) silicone, while treatment II consisted of STF and a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and tetraisopropyl titanate. In Part I, STF-treated knitted spacer fabric was shown to have significantly greater force attenuation capacity than untreated fabric and comparable to force attenuation capacity of closed cell foam. In Part II, the effects on performance relevant to the thermal comfort of the wearer of each treatment method, the amount of STF used, and layering were assessed using a sweating guarded hot plate, and comparisons made between treated fabrics and with closed cell foam. Treatments I and II produced pads with significantly different permeability index and mass compared to closed cell foam. Treatment II produced pads with high force attenuation capacity, suitable permeability indexes, and low mass – preferred characteristics in hip protective pads. The study concluded that knitted spacer fabrics treated with STF, isopropyl alcohol, and tetraisopropyl titanate are potentially useful materials for hip protective pads.
Rolling element bearing fault diagnosis based on multi-scale global fuzzy entropy, multiple class feature selection and support vector machine
Authors: Zhu Keheng , Chen Liang , Hu Xiong
Published: May 2019

Multi-scale fuzzy entropy (MFE) is a recently developed non-linear dynamic parameter for measuring the complexity of vibration signals of rolling element bearing over different scales. However, the calculation of fuzzy entropy (FuzzyEn) in each scale ignores the sequence’s global characteristics while the bearing vibration signals’ global fluctuation may vary as the bearing runs under different states. Therefore, in this paper, the multi-scale global fuzzy entropy (MGFE) method is put forward for extracting the fault features from the bearing vibration signals. After the feature extraction, multiple class feature selection (MCFS) method is introduced to select the most informative features from the high-dimensional feature vector. Then, a new rolling element bearing fault diagnosis approach is proposed based on MGFE, MCFS and support vector machine (SVM). The experimental results indicate that the proposed approach can effectively fulfill the fault diagnosis of rolling element bearing and has good classification performance.
A review on the application of photovoltaic thermal systems for building façades
Authors: Riaz Ahmad , Liang Ruobing , Zhou Chao , Zhang Jili
Published: May 2019

The hybrid photovoltaic-thermal system has shown great progress. Electrical energy is produced from PV panels while thermal energy is produced via a working fluid carried through the panels. In this paper, the vertical PV/T is introduced using working fluids such as air and liquid, which serve to control the excess temperature of the PV panels as well as to collect heat to be made available as thermal energy. Installations of PV/T systems on building façades, as well as integration with other technologies such as heat pipe and heat pump are also discussed. Current studies of such building integration technologies are also explored, including the scale of application. This study aims to provide constructive information which can be used in future development of building facades for large-scale applications, to contribute to future sustainable development.

Practical application: This study helps researchers and engineers who are considering photovoltaic thermal systems for building façades to have better understanding of its effect on electrical and thermal energy – for space heating, fresh air supply and hot water supply – using an active building envelope.
Graduated compression stockings effects on chronic venous disease signs and symptoms during pregnancy
Authors: Saliba Júnior Orlando Adas , Rollo Hamilton Almeida , Saliba Orlando , Sobreira Marcone Lima
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of compression stockings in controlling the varicose veins in pregnant women.

Method

A prospective controlled randomized clinical trial was performed, including 60 women: intervention group (n = 30), who used compression stockings, and control group (n = 30). Diameters of the great saphenous vein and small saphenous vein in the lower limbs of pregnant women in an orthostatic position were analyzed using Duplex-ultrasound. The symptomatology and CEAP were evaluated.

Results

Great saphenous vein diameters in the intervention group were 0.37 cm initial and 0.32 cm final (p < 0.0001) in the right leg and 0.28 cm and 0.38 cm (p < 0.0001) in the control group. CEAP classification presented worsening in the control group (p < 0.0001). The signs and symptoms in the control vs. intervention group: pain (86.67% vs. 23.33%; p < 0.0001), edema (70.00% vs. 33.33%; p = 0.0045), and leg heaviness (93.33% vs. 13.33%; p < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Compression stockings were effective in controlling the varicose veins related to pregnancy.
Glutathione levels and activities of glutathione metabolism enzymes in patients with schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tsugawa Sakiko , Noda Yoshihiro , Tarumi Ryosuke , Mimura Yu , Yoshida Kazunari , Iwata Yusuke , Elsalhy Muhammad , Kuromiya Minori , Kurose Shin , Masuda Fumi , Morita Shinji , Ogyu Kamiyu , Plitman Eric , Wada Masataka , Miyazaki Takahiro , Graff-Guerrero Ariel , Mimura Masaru , Nakajima Shinichiro
Published: May 2019

Background:

Glutathione is among the important antioxidants to prevent oxidative stress. However, the relationships between abnormality in the glutathione system and pathophysiology of schizophrenia remain uncertain due to inconsistent findings on glutathione levels and/or glutathione-related enzyme activities in patients with schizophrenia.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted using Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, and PubMed. Original studies, in which three metabolite levels (glutathione, glutathione disulfide, and total glutathione (glutathione+glutathione disulfide)) and five enzyme activities (glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase, glutamate-cysteine ligase, glutathione synthetase, and glutathione S-transferase) were measured with any techniques in both patients with schizophrenia and healthy controls, were included. Standardized mean differences were calculated to determine the group differences in the glutathione levels with a random-effects model.

Results:

We identified 41, 9, 15, 38, and seven studies which examined glutathione, glutathione disulfide, total glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase, respectively. Patients with schizophrenia had lower levels of both glutathione and total glutathione and decreased activity of glutathione peroxidase compared to controls. Glutathione levels were lower in unmedicated patients with schizophrenia than those in controls while glutathione levels did not differ between patients with first-episode psychosis and controls.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggested that there may be glutathione deficits and abnormalities in the glutathione redox cycle in patients with schizophrenia. However, given the small number of studies examined the entire glutathione system, further studies are needed to elucidate a better understanding of disrupted glutathione function in schizophrenia, which may pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in this disorder.
Types of posterolateral corner injury associated with both bundle and selective-bundle ACL tears
Authors: Lee So Yeon , Choi Yoon Jung , Park Hee Jin , Kook Shin Ho , Kang Kyung A , Kim Mi Sung , Kwon Heon Ju , Ahn Jin Hwan
Published: May 2019

Background

It is unknown whether a selective-bundle tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) shows a different prevalence of posterolateral corner (PLC) injury than a both-bundle tear.

Purpose

The prevalence of injury of PLC stabilizer in relation to the type of combined ACL tear (both-bundle and selective-bundle tears) has been investigated.

Material and methods

This retrospective study included 94 patients who were diagnosed with an ACL tear after knee joint magnetic resonance imaging and underwent arthroscopic surgery. We compared the prevalence of each lesion in relation to the type of ACL injury and the type of selective-bundle tear. We used Fischer exact tests to compare the prevalence of each lesion in relation to the type of ACL injury and the type of selective-bundle tear.

Results

Both-bundle tears occurred in 55 cases (56%) and selective-bundle tears in 39 cases (44%). The most common PLC injury with an ACL tear was inferior popliteomeniscal fascicle (PMF) injury, followed by superior PMF injury. The prevalence of each PLC injury was higher for both-bundle tears than selective-bundle tears, with the exception of popliteus tendon injury diagnosed by reader 1 (P.H.J). However, these differences were statistically significant for superior PMF injury only ( p < 0.05). The prevalence of PLC injury was unrelated to the type of selective-bundle tear (anteromedial vs posterolateral).

Conclusion

Superior PMF injury is more common in both-bundle tears than selective-bundle tears. There is no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of PLC injury between both-bundle tears and selective-bundle tears.
Viewpoint on Family Life and HIV Education curriculum in Nigerian secondary schools
Authors: Igbokwe Uche Lebechi , Ogbonna Chimaobi Samuel , Ezegbe Bernedeth Nkiruka , Nnadi Ekwutosi Monica , Eseadi Chiedu
Published: May 2019

The Family Life and HIV Education curriculum was developed to drive Nigeria’s school-based HIV intervention strategy for disseminating information about HIV/AIDS and curbing the threat of HIV/AIDS among adolescents and young people. In this paper, we aimed to identify the strengths and constraints in the Family Life and HIV Education curriculum and its implementation, and we suggest possible solutions to boost its effectiveness and impact. We reviewed the curriculum and searched other pertinent literature to identify factors found to undermine the effectiveness and impact of this curriculum, as used in Nigerian secondary schools. We then proffered possible solutions to these factors. It is recommended that greater collaboration and sharing of ideas and experiences across sectors involved in HIV/AIDS prevention efforts be encouraged, to yield relevant information for more efficient innovation in the Family Life and HIV Education curriculum, which can lead to its greater effectiveness and impact.
Malignant glomus tumor of the thyroid gland: a case report
Authors: Liu Yinhua , Wu Rongrong , Yu Tao , Cao Yingya , Lu Linming
Published: May 2019

Objective

Primary malignant glomus tumors of the thyroid gland are a rare occurrence.

Methods

A 68-year-old man found a mass on the right side of his neck in October 2017. An X-ray examination on 9 January 2018 showed multiple round reinforced masses in both sides of the lung. Computed tomography imaging of the neck showed a low-density mass on the right side of the thyroid gland.

Results

The immunohistochemistry results were positive for smooth muscle actin, calponin, collagen IV, and Ki-67 60%. The patient received chemotherapy starting on 17 January 2018, 8 February 2018, and 11 March 2018. The chemotherapy drugs included ifosfamide, epirubicin, and cisplatin. However, the patient subsequently developed multiple organ failure and died in April 2018, approximately 6 months after the initial discovery of the mass in his neck.

Conclusions

Primary malignant glomus tumors of the thyroid gland are rare, and examination of their pathology and immunohistochemistry is vital for making an accurate final diagnosis. This case also indicates that primary malignant glomus tumors of the thyroid gland may have a poor prognosis, despite chemotherapy.
Comparison of ultra-low dose chest CT scanning protocols for the detection of pulmonary nodules: a phantom study
Authors: Milanese Gianluca , Silva Mario , Frauenfelder Thomas , Eberhard Matthias , Sabia Federica , Martini Chiara , Marchianò Alfonso , Prokop Mathias , Sverzellati Nicola , Pastorino Ugo
Published: May 2019

Purpose:

To test ultra-low-dose computed tomography (ULDCT) scanning protocols for the detection of pulmonary nodules (PN).

Methods:

A chest phantom containing 19 solid and 11 subsolid PNs was scanned on a third-generation dual-source computed tomography (CT) scanner. Five ULDCT scans (Sn100kVp and 120, 70, 50, 30, and 20 reference mAs, using tube current modulation), reconstructed with iterative reconstruction (IR) algorithm at strength levels 2, 3, 4, and 5, were compared with standard CT (120kVp, 150 reference mAs, using tube current modulation). PNs were subjectively assessed according to a 4-point scale: 0, nondetectable nodule; 1, detectable nodule, very unlikely to be correctly measured; 2, detectable nodule, likely to be correctly measured; 3, PN quality equal to standard of reference. PN scores were analysed according to the Lung Imaging Reporting and Data System (Lung-RADS), simulating detection of nodules at baseline and incidence screening round.

Results:

For the baseline round, there were 17 Lung-RADS 2, 4 Lung-RADS 3, 8 Lung-RADS 4A, and 1 Lung-RADS 4B PNs. They were detectable in any ULDCT protocol, with the exception of 1 nondetectable part-solid nodule in 1 scanning protocol (120 reference mAs; IR strength: 3). For the incidence round, there were 4 Lung-RADS 2, 14 Lung-RADS 3, 2 Lung-RADS 4A, and 10 Lung-RADS 4B PNs. Ten were nondetectable in at least one ULDCT dataset; however, they were at least detectable in ULDCT with 70 reference mAs (IR strength: 4 and 5).

Conclusions:

ULDCT scanning protocols allowing the detection of PNs can be proposed for the purpose of lung cancer screening.