bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coaliciones sociales y políticas en el desarrollo del sector agroexportador: las frutas murcianas en las redes globales de producción agroalimentaria
Authors: De Castro Carlos , Gadea Montesinos María Elena , Pedreño Andrés , Ramírez Melgarejo Antonio J.
Published: May 2017

El territorio de la vega media del Segura en la Región de Murcia está históricamente articulado a cadenas globales de productos primarios (esparto) y agroalimentarios (frutas). Estas articulaciones históricas han operado a través de coaliciones de fuerzas sociales cambiantes en función del producto y en función del ciclo histórico. Concretamente, la producción agroalimentaria ha experimentado dos momentos que se presentan discontinuamente en el tiempo: el primer ciclo exportador hortofrutícola se inicia a inicios del siglo XX y se cierra en los años 50 y tiene como protagonista a la industria conservera; y el segundo ciclo exportador hortofrutícola arranca a partir de los años 60, se consolida a finales de los 80 y principios de los 90 y perdura hasta la actualidad, protagonizando este segundo momento la producción de fruta para mercado en fresco. En este complejo escenario el trabajador asalariado ha tenido una enorme centralidad, aunque se ha presentado profundamente segmentado en una variedad de figuras productivas -el jornalero agrícola, el recolector de esparto, las mujeres de los almacenes de manipulado o de las conserveras, el trabajador de las fábricas de esparto, etc.- y en las cuales las líneas de diferenciación por clase, género, etnia e inclusive edad han tenido un enorme papel.El artículo pretende mostrar las dimensiones políticas del proceso histórico de construcción de este espacio productivo desde la perspectiva de una sociohistoria de las relaciones de trabajo en conexión con las formas cambiantes de articulación del territorio con las cadenas globales de mercancías. Para ello este artículo se apoyará en las aportaciones de los estudios sobre las cadenas globales de mercancías y redes globales de producción así como de los estudios regionales.
Territorios encadenados, tránsitos migratorios y ruralidades adaptativas
Authors: Camarero Luis
Published: May 2017

La pregunta que queremos plantear se refiere a las formas en que los territorios, en este caso las distintas áreas y localidades rurales, se integran, vinculan o desvinculan en procesos y cadenas productivas y económicas de orden global. Esta cuestión nos llevará ineludiblemente a referirnos al intercambio no sólo de mercancías, insumos y capitales sino también a los movimientos migratorios y a las prácticas de movilidad. La movilidad en su sentido amplio determina la relación y posicionamiento de trabajadores y consumidores en el espacio del territorio y en la secuencia de las cadenas globales. El marco propuesto por Wallerstein de Sistema- Mundo para explicar  el proceso de articulación global de un sistema económico resulta muy sugerente para interpretar el proceso de integración de las economías rurales en los sistemas socioeconómicos globales. El proceso de división social del trabajo genera nuevas lógicas de integración/desintegración de las regiones en el proceso socioeconómico. En este contexto los territorios se adaptan y organizan para insertarse en distintos momentos de las cadenas de producción de valor. Para ello, se convierten progresivamente en unidades segmentarias, iguales, modulares e indiferenciadas, e incluso llegan a perder las ventajas (o inercias) que una tradición y cultura productiva podría generar. Lugares que llegarán, y esta es nuestra hipótesis, a competir en la medida en que desarrollen capacidades de adaptabilidad a las condiciones productivas especialmente reduciendo fricciones y costes fijos mediante la gestión migratoria y movilidad de la mano de obra.
ELMER: A CLASSROOM INTERVENTION FOR INTERCULTURAL BILINGUAL EDUCATION
Authors: Guadamillas Gómez María Victoria
Published: May 2017

Abstract: Picture books are a motivating tool at early educational stages and they may extend students’ vocabulary and foster children’ bilingual education by introducing vocabulary in real a classroom context. Moreover, these resources promote positive intercultural values among learners. Firstly, this paper discusses the benefits of using picture books at early educational stages. Then, it analyses the main intercultural values in Elmer by David McKee (1989); later, it shows a classroom intervention on Elmer, focusing on the bilingual CLIL approach. Finally, it states some conclusions, which have to do with the potential of this particular picture book. Titulo en español: “Elmer: una intervención en el aula para la educación bilingüe intercultural”. Resumen: Los libros ilustrados resultan un recurso motivador en las primeras etapas educativas y, al tiempo que amplian el vocabulario de los aprendientes, pueden fomentar su educación bilingüe, abriendo al alumno a comportamientos positivos. Esta contribución presenta, en primer lugar, conexiones entre los libros ilustrados y su potencial en las primeras etapas educativas. A continuación, analiza los principales valores interculturales presentes en Elmer de David McKee (1989) y da cuenta de cómo esta lectura puede representar un recurso didáctico valioso en términos de educación bilingüe y atendiendo al enfoque AICLE en la etapa educativa de 3-6 años. Por último, se proponen algunas conclusiones.
Diversity of used plant species for producing charcoal and its trade-off in Far-North Region, Cameroon
Authors: Todou G. , Hassan M. , Ze Akamba , Kombo D. , Machewere S. , Vroumsia T.
Published: May 2017

The Northern Regions of Cameroon belong to sudano-zambesian region. In these regions, woody species are scarce compared to Guinean-Congolese Region and they undergo the human pressure like abusive exploitation of plants. In order to contribute to valorization of phytogenetic resources and contribute to struggle desert progression in sahelian region, a study on plants diversity which are used to produce charcoal and its trade-off was carried out in Far-North Region of Cameroon. Census of plants species was made on the basis of semi-structured surveys through the producers of charcoal and identification of tree trunks on the sites of charcoal production. Data of trade of charcoal was collected by direct observation and a semi-structured survey questionnaire in Maroua. In total, 25 species grouped in 17 genera and 8 families have been recorded. Acacia and Combretum were the richest genera with four species each. They were quoted as multipurpose species which can be used elsewhere as fruits, timbers, medicinal plants or essential oils and exudates. In Maroua almost, 98 % of households use charcoal for heating. In the absence of the charcoal, up to 60 % of those use firewood, 18.46 % use domestic gas and 18.46% use kerosene. Because of poverty and unemployment, people of primary education are mostly charcoal sellers.  INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTVolume-6, Issue-2, Mar-May 2017, Page: 19-29
Une analyse des qualités psychométriques du Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) à partir de la théorie des réponses aux items
Authors: Giguère Guy , Lussier Patrick
Published: May 2017

Andrews, Bonta et Wormith (2004) présentent le Level of Service/Case Management Inventory (LS/CMI) comme un instrument de quatrième génération afin d'évaluer le risque de récidive criminelle et les besoins en intervention des personnes contrevenantes. La présente étude consiste en une analyse détaillée de la structure interne du LS/CMI fondée sur la théorie des réponses aux items afin d'en déterminer la validité prédictive. Elle a été faite à partir des données prospectives provenant d'un échantillon 17 651 hommes contrevenants suivis sur une période d'un an. L'analyse des réponses aux items indique que les items dynamiques du LS/CMI n'améliorent pas significativement la validité prédictive de l'outil. Les résultats montrent qu'à eux seuls, les items statiques s'avèrent aussi valides que les outils de troisième et de quatrième génération et que le retrait de plusieurs items, principalement dynamiques, n'affecte pas l'indice de validité prédictive. Finalement, les analyses psychométriques soulèvent des questions fondamentales quant à la validité de l'outil, mais également quant à son utilité auprès de personnes contrevenantes.
Fast and efficient synthesis of chromeno[d]pyrimidinediones catalysed by a TiO2–SiO2 nanocomposite in aqueous media
Authors: Kiani Mehrdad , Abdolmohammadi Shahrzad , Janitabar-Darzi Simin
Published: May 2017

A 1:1 TiO2–SiO2 nanocomposite was used as an efficient and green recyclable catalyst for the synthesis in water of 11 chromeno[ d]pyrimidinediones, six of which are new. All reactions were carried out under very mild conditions to afford the corresponding products in excellent yields.
How Well Does the CWEQ II Measure Structural Empowerment? Findings from Applying Item Response Theory
Authors: Havaei Farinaz , Dahinten V.
Published: May 2017

The main purpose of this paper is to examine the psychometric properties of the original five-point CWEQ II using Item Response Theory (IRT) methods, followed by an examination of the revised three-point CWEQ II. (1) Background: The psychometric properties of the CWEQ II have not been previously assessed using more robust techniques such as IRT. (2) Methods: This is a secondary analysis of baseline data from 1067 staff nurses whose leaders had attended a leadership development program. Data were analyzed using a polytomous IRT model. (3) Results: The two versions of CWEQ II fit the SE data equally as each had only one poor-fitting item. For the five-point CWEQ II, discriminant ability was poor for a majority of the items; one item demonstrated a disordinal step difficulty parameter; and item reliability was supported for a relatively wider range of SE levels. The discriminant ability and reliability of items for the three-point CWEQ II was better than those of the five-point CWEQ II, but for a narrower range of SE levels; and the disordinal step difficulty parameter was resolved. (4) Conclusion: The appropriate use of each version of the scale depends on the conditions of the work setting targeted.
Green Synthesized Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanoparticles Induce Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage in Lathyrus sativus L. Root Bioassay System
Authors: Panda Kamal , Golari Dambaru , Venugopal A. , Achary V. , Phaomei Ganngam , Parinandi Narasimham , Sahu Hrushi , Panda Brahma
Published: May 2017

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONP-GS) were synthesised from the precursor zinc acetate (Zn(CH3COO)2) through the green route using the milky latex from milk weed (Calotropis gigantea L. R. Br) by alkaline precipitation. Formation of the ZnONP-GS was monitored by UV-visible spectroscopy followed by characterization and confirmation by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Both the ZnONP-GS and the commercially available ZnONP-S (Sigma-Aldrich) and cationic Zn2+ from Zn(CH3COO)2 were tested in a dose range of 0–100 mg·L−1 for their potency (i) to induce oxidative stress as measured by the generation reactive oxygen species (ROS: O2•−, H2O2 and •OH), cell death, and lipid peroxidation; (ii) to modulate the activities of antioxidant enzymes: catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (GPX), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX); and (iii) to cause DNA damage as determined by Comet assay in Lathyrus sativus L. root bioassay system. Antioxidants such as Tiron and dimethylthiourea significantly attenuated the ZnONP-induced oxidative and DNA damage, suggesting the involvement of ROS therein. Our study demonstrated that both ZnONP-GS and ZnONP-S induced oxidative stress and DNA damage to a similar extent but were significantly less potent than Zn2+ alone.
Effects of β-Carotene and Its Cleavage Products in Primary Pneumocyte Type II Cells
Authors: Haider Cornelia , Ferk Franziska , Bojaxhi Ekramije , Martano Giuseppe , Stutz Hanno , Bresgen Nikolaus , Knasmüller Siegfried , Alija Avdulla , Eckl Peter
Published: May 2017

β-Carotene has been shown to increase the risk of developing lung cancer in smokers and asbestos workers in two large scale trails, the Beta-Carotene and Retinol Efficacy Trial (CARET) and the Alpha-Tocopherol Beta-carotene Cancer Prevention Trial (ATBC). Based on this observation, it was proposed that genotoxic oxidative breakdown products may cause this effect. In support of this assumption, increased levels of sister chromatid exchanges, micronuclei, and chromosomal aberrations were found in primary hepatocyte cultures treated with a mixture of cleavage products (CPs) and the major product apo-8′carotenal. However, because these findings cannot directly be transferred to the lung due to the exceptional biotransformation capacity of the liver, potential genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of β-carotene under oxidative stress and its CPs were investigated in primary pneumocyte type II cells. The results indicate that increased concentrations of β-carotene in the presence of the redox cycling quinone dimethoxynaphthoquinone (DMNQ) exhibit a cytotoxic potential, as evidenced by an increase of apoptotic cells and loss of cell density at concentrations > 10 µM. On the other hand, the analysis of micronucleated cells gave no clear picture due to the cytotoxicity related reduction of mitotic cells. Last, although CPs induced significant levels of DNA strand breaks even at concentrations ≥ 1 µM and 5 µM, respectively, β-carotene in the presence of DMNQ did not cause DNA damage. Instead, β-carotene appeared to act as an antioxidant. These findings are in contrast with what was demonstrated for primary hepatocytes and may reflect different sensitivities to and different metabolism of β-carotene in the two cell types.
The Reactive Sulfur Species Concept: 15 Years On
Authors: Giles Gregory , Nasim Muhammad , Ali Wesam , Jacob Claus
Published: May 2017

Fifteen years ago, in 2001, the concept of “Reactive Sulfur Species” or RSS was advocated as a working hypothesis. Since then various organic as well as inorganic RSS have attracted considerable interest and stimulated many new and often unexpected avenues in research and product development. During this time, it has become apparent that molecules with sulfur-containing functional groups are not just the passive “victims” of oxidative stress or simple conveyors of signals in cells, but can also be stressors in their own right, with pivotal roles in cellular function and homeostasis. Many “exotic” sulfur-based compounds, often of natural origin, have entered the fray in the context of nutrition, ageing, chemoprevention and therapy. In parallel, the field of inorganic RSS has come to the forefront of research, with short-lived yet metabolically important intermediates, such as various sulfur-nitrogen species and polysulfides (Sx2−), playing important roles. Between 2003 and 2005 several breath-taking discoveries emerged characterising unusual sulfur redox states in biology, and since then the truly unique role of sulfur-dependent redox systems has become apparent. Following these discoveries, over the last decade a “hunt” and, more recently, mining for such modifications has begun—and still continues—often in conjunction with new, innovative and complex labelling and analytical methods to capture the (entire) sulfur “redoxome”. A key distinction for RSS is that, unlike oxygen or nitrogen, sulfur not only forms a plethora of specific reactive species, but sulfur also targets itself, as sulfur containing molecules, i.e., peptides, proteins and enzymes, preferentially react with RSS. Not surprisingly, today this sulfur-centred redox signalling and control inside the living cell is a burning issue, which has moved on from the predominantly thiol/disulfide biochemistry of the past to a complex labyrinth of interacting signalling and control pathways which involve various sulfur oxidation states, sulfur species and reactions. RSS are omnipresent and, in some instances, are even considered as the true bearers of redox control, perhaps being more important than the Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) or Reactive Nitrogen Species (RNS) which for decades have dominated the redox field. In other(s) words, in 2017, sulfur redox is “on the rise”, and the idea of RSS resonates throughout the Life Sciences. Still, the RSS story isn’t over yet. Many RSS are at the heart of “mistaken identities” which urgently require clarification and may even provide the foundations for further scientific revolutions in the years to come. In light of these developments, it is therefore the perfect time to revisit the original hypotheses, to select highlights in the field and to question and eventually update our concept of “Reactive Sulfur Species”.
Human-Like Walking with Heel Off and Toe Support for Biped Robot
Authors: Liu Yixiang , Zang Xizhe , Heng Shuai , Lin Zhenkun , Zhao Jie
Published: May 2017

The under-actuated foot rotation that the heel of the stance leg lifts off the ground and the body rotates around the stance toe is an important feature in human walking. However, it is absent in the realized walking gait for the majority of biped robots because of the difficulty and complexity in the control it brings about. In this paper, a hybrid control approach aiming to integrate the main characteristics of human walking into a simulated seven-link biped robot is presented and then verified with simulations. The bipedal robotic gait includes a fully actuated single support phase with the stance heel supporting the body, an under-actuated single support phase, with the stance toe supporting the body, and an instantaneous double support phase when the two legs exchange their roles. The walking controller combines virtual force control and foot placement control, which are applied to the stance leg and the swing leg, respectively. The virtual force control assumes that there is a virtual force which can generate the desired torso motion on the center of mass of the torso link, and then the virtual force is applied through the real torques on each actuated joint of the stance leg to create the same effect that the virtual force would have created. The foot placement control uses a path tracking controller to follow the predefined trajectory of the swing foot when walking forward. The trajectories of the torso and the swing foot are generated based on the cart-cable model. Co-simulations in Adams and MATLAB show that the desired gait is achieved with a biped robot under the action of the proposed method.
Probing Dynamics in Colloidal Crystals with Pump-Probe Experiments at LCLS: Methodology and Analysis
Authors: Mukharamova Nastasia , Lazarev Sergey , Meijer Janne-Mieke , Chollet Matthieu , Singer Andrej , Kurta Ruslan , Dzhigaev Dmitry , Gorobtsov Oleg , Williams Garth , Zhu Diling , Feng Yiping , Sikorski Marcin , Song Sanghoon , Shabalin Anatoly , Gurieva Tatiana , Sulyanova Elena , Yefanov Oleksandr , Vartanyants Ivan
Published: May 2017

We present results of the studies of dynamics in colloidal crystals performed by pump-probe experiments using an X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL). Colloidal crystals were pumped with an infrared laser at a wavelength of 800 nm with varying power and probed by XFEL pulses at an energy of 8 keV with a time delay up to 1000 ps. The positions of the Bragg peaks, and their radial and azimuthal widths were analyzed as a function of the time delay. The spectral analysis of the data did not reveal significant enhancement of frequencies expected in this experiment. This allowed us to conclude that the amplitude of vibrational modes excited in colloidal crystals was less than the systematic error caused by the noise level.
Intensified Pozzolanic Reaction on Kaolinite Clay-Based Mortar
Authors: Kwon Yang-Hee , Kang Sung-Hoon , Hong Sung-Gul , Moon Juhyuk
Published: May 2017

The objective of this study is to develop and characterize kaolinite clay-based structural mortar. The pozzolanic reaction induced from two mineral additives, i.e., calcium hydroxide and silica fume (SF), and the physical filling effect from SF, were found to be effective on the enhancement of structural properties. Based on several preliminary experiments, 7:3 ratio of kaolinite clay/calcium hydroxide was selected as a basic binder. Then, the amount of SF was chosen as 0%, 7.5%, and 15% of the total binder to consider both the chemical and physical effects. The results showed that compressive strengths of samples with 7.5% and 15% SF are significantly increased by approximately 200% and 350%, respectively, at 28 days compared to the sample without SF. However, based on the results of the sample with 15% SF, it is found that excessive addition of SF causes long-term strength loss, possibly owing to micro cracks. With the careful consideration on this long-term behavior, this suggested new mix design can be further extended to develop sustainable structural materials using natural minerals or waste materials with nonbinding properties.
X-ray Pump–Probe Investigation of Charge and Dissociation Dynamics in Methyl Iodine Molecule
Authors: Fang Li , Xiong Hui , Kukk Edwin , Berrah Nora
Published: May 2017

Molecular dynamics is of fundamental interest in natural science research. The capability of investigating molecular dynamics is one of the various motivations for ultrafast optics. We present our investigation of photoionization and nuclear dynamics in methyl iodine (CH3I) molecule with an X-ray pump X-ray probe scheme. The pump–probe experiment was realized with a two-mirror X-ray split and delay apparatus. Time-of-flight mass spectra at various pump–probe delay times were recorded to obtain the time profile for the creation of high charge states via sequential ionization and for molecular dissociation. We observed high charge states of atomic iodine up to 29+, and visualized the evolution of creating these high atomic ion charge states, including their population suppression and enhancement as the arrival time of the second X-ray pulse was varied. We also show the evolution of the kinetics of the high charge states upon the timing of their creation during the ionization-dissociation coupled dynamics. We demonstrate the implementation of X-ray pump–probe methodology for investigating X-ray induced molecular dynamics with femtosecond temporal resolution. The results indicate the footprints of ionization that lead to high charge states, probing the long-range potential curves of the high charge states.
Molecular Dynamics of XFEL-Induced Photo-Dissociation, Revealed by Ion-Ion Coincidence Measurements
Authors: Kukk Edwin , Motomura Koji , Fukuzawa Hironobu , Nagaya Kiyonobu , Ueda Kiyoshi
Published: May 2017

X-ray free electron lasers (XFELs) providing ultrashort intense pulses of X-rays have proven to be excellent tools to investigate the dynamics of radiation-induced dissociation and charge redistribution in molecules and nanoparticles. Coincidence techniques, in particular multi-ion time-of-flight (TOF) coincident experiments, can provide detailed information on the photoabsorption, charge generation, and Coulomb explosion events. Here we review several such recent experiments performed at the SPring-8 Angstrom Compact free electron LAser (SACLA) facility in Japan, with iodomethane, diiodomethane, and 5-iodouracil as targets. We demonstrate how to utilize the momentum-resolving capabilities of the ion TOF spectrometers to resolve and filter the coincidence data and extract various information essential in understanding the time evolution of the processes induced by the XFEL pulses.
Analysis of Preparation and Properties on Shape Memory Hydrogenated Epoxy Resin Used for Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Ma Biao , Zhou Xueyan , Wei Kun , Bo Yanzhen , You Zhanping
Published: May 2017

The objective of this investigation is to prepare the shape memory hydrogenated epoxy resin used for asphalt mixtures (SM-HEP-AM) and study its properties. The shape memory hydrogenated epoxy resin (SM-HEP) is prepared using hydrogenated bisphenol A epoxy resin (AL-3040), polypropylene glycol diglycidylether diacrylate (JH-230), and isophorone diamine (IPDA). The formulations of the SM-HEP-AM are obtained by the linearly fitted method. The thermo-mechanical property, molecular structure, and shape-memory performance of the SM-HEP-AM are studied. The glass-transition temperature (Tg) is determined using the differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The results proved that the Tg level increased when the JH-230 content decreased. The thermo-mechanical property of the SM-HEP-AM is measured by dynamical mechanical analysis (DMA). The storage modulus of the SM-HEP-AM decreased with the increase in the JH-230 content. The above phenomena are attributed to the change in the JH-230 content. The shape memory performance results of the SM-HEP-AM indicate that specimen deformation can completely recover after only several minutes at Tg + 10 °C and Tg + 20 °C. The shape recovery time of the SM-HEP-AM increases with increased JH-230 content, and the change between the shape recovery time and JH-230 content gradually decreased as the temperature increased. The deformation recovery performance of asphalt mixture with and without the SM-HEP-AM (Tg = 40 °C) was tested by the deformation recovery test. This was used to prove that the SM-HEP-AM helps to improve the deformation recovery performance of the asphalt mixture.
Use of Rolling Piston Expanders for Energy Regeneration in Natural Gas Pressure Reduction Stations—Selected Thermodynamic Issues
Authors: Kolasiński Piotr , Pomorski Michał , Błasiak Przemysław , Rak Józef
Published: May 2017

Gas pressure reduction stations are commonly applied to decrease the pressure of natural gas in the transmission pipelines. In such stations, natural gas is expanded in throttling valves without producing any energy. Through the use of expander in natural gas pressure reduction stations, it is possible to recover the pressure energy of the natural gas during expansion, and drive the electrical generator. Possible solutions include turbines and volumetric expanders. However, turbines are complicated and expensive, while volumetric expanders are simple and cheap. This paper presents an analytical modeling of rolling piston expander work conditions when adopted to natural gas expansion. The main objective of this research was therefore a comprehensive analysis of influence of varied sizes of the expander components and natural gas thermal properties at the inlet and at the outlet of the expander, on the expander output power. The analysis presented in this paper indicates that the rolling piston expander is a good alternative to the turbines proposed for energy recovery in natural gas pressure reduction stations.
Seasonal Variation and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in PM2.5 during Winter and Summer over Xi’an, China
Authors: Liu Pingping , Lei Yali , Ren Huarui , Gao Jinjin , Xu Hongmei , Shen Zhenxing , Zhang Qian , Zheng Chunli , Liu Hongxia , Zhang Renjian , Pan Hua
Published: May 2017

In this study, 24 h PM2.5 (particles with an equivalent diameter equal to or below 2.5 μm) samples were collected in winter and summer in Xi’an, Northwestern China to characterize the seasonal variations of eleven elements (As, Cd, Cr, Fe, K, Mn, Mo, Pb, Ni, Zn, and Cu) and to evaluate their health risks by using the US EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) method. Mass concentrations of the elements (except Ni) in winter were much higher than those in summer, with similar variations for both seasons. The levels of elements followed a decreasing order of K > Zn > Fe > Pb > Cr > As > Mn > Cu > Mo > Ni > Cd. According to the enrichment factor (EF) analysis, the highest EF value for Cd inferred that it should be linked with the metal smelting and other anthropogenic sources. In contrast, the EF values of K and Mn (1 < EF < 5) suggested that they were influenced by both natural and anthropogenic sources. The daily average exposure dose for children and adults by different exposure pathways were both ingestion > dermal contact > inhalation. The non-cancer risks for different exposure pathways showed different orders. The non-cancer risks (hazard quotients) were lower than the average risk threshold (1.0) except for As, Pb, and Cr, which require greater attention. Elements of As and Cr were higher than the cancer risk threshold value (1 × 10−6), indicating that the cancer risks of PM2.5 elements in Xi’an should be a concern.
Future Changes in Global Precipitation Projected by the Atmospheric Model MRI-AGCM3.2H with a 60-km Size
Authors: Kusunoki Shoji
Published: May 2017

We conducted global warming projections using the Meteorological Research Institute-Atmospheric General Circulation Model Version 3.2 with a 60-km grid size (MRI-AGCM3.2H). For the present-day climate of 21 years from 1983 through 2003, the model was forced with observed historical sea surface temperature (SST). For the future climate of 21 years from 2079–2099, the model was forced with future SST projected by conventional couple models. Twelve-member ensemble simulations for three different cumulus convection schemes and four different SST distributions were conducted to evaluate the uncertainty of projection. Annual average precipitation will increase over the equatorial regions and decrease over the subtropical regions. The future precipitation changes are generally sensitive to the cumulus convection scheme, but changes are influenced by the SST over the some regions of the Pacific Ocean. The precipitation efficiency defined as precipitation change per 1° surface air temperature warming is evaluated. The global average of precipitation efficiency for annual average precipitation was less than the maximum value expected by thermodynamical theory, indicating that dynamical atmospheric circulation is acting to reduce the conversion efficiency from water vapor to precipitation. The precipitation efficiency by heavy precipitation is larger than that by moderate and weak precipitation.
Implications of a Multi-Step Trigger of Retinal Regeneration in the Adult Newt
Authors: Yasumuro Hirofumi , Sakurai Keisuke , Toyama Fubito , Maruo Fumiaki , Chiba Chikafumi
Published: May 2017

The newt is an amazing four-limbed vertebrate that can regenerate various body parts including the retina. In this animal, when the neural retina (NR) is removed from the eye by surgery (retinectomy), both the NR and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) eventually regenerate through the process of reprogramming and proliferation of RPE cells. Thus far, we have pursued the onset mechanism of adult newt retinal regeneration. In this study, using an in vitro system, we found that both mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK)-ERK and β-catenin were involved in cell cycle re-entry of RPE cells. MEK-ERK signaling activity in RPE cells was strengthened by retinectomy, and nuclear translocation of β-catenin in RPE cells was induced by attenuation of cell–cell contact, which was promoted by incision of the RPE or its treatment with ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA). EGTA is a Ca2+ chelator that disrupts cadherin-mediated cell–cell adhesion. Reinforcement of MEK-ERK signaling activity was a prerequisite for nuclear translocation of β-catenin. These results suggest that retinectomy followed by attenuation of cell–cell contact may trigger cell cycle re-entry of RPE cells. This study, together with our previous findings concerning the proliferation and multipotency of adult newt RPE cells, provides insight into the mechanism of the multi-step trigger in which the onset of retinal regeneration in the adult newt is rigorously controlled.
How Does Psychosocial Behavior Contribute to Cognitive Health in Old Age?
Authors: Wilson Robert , Bennett David
Published: May 2017

With the aging of the U.S. population, the number of cognitively disabled persons is expected to substantially increase in coming decades, underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions. Here, we review the current evidence linking psychosocial factors to late-life cognitive loss and consider the study design needed to illuminate the biologic bases of the associations. We then examine an ongoing study that includes several of the key design elements, the Rush Memory and Aging Project. In this longitudinal clinical-pathological cohort study, indicators of personality, social connectedness, and psychological well-being were shown to predict late-life cognitive outcomes. Participants who died underwent a uniform neuropathologic examination to quantify common dementia-related pathologies. Some psychosocial indicators were associated with cerebral infarction; some indicators modified the association of neurodegenerative pathologies with cognitive loss; and the association of some indicators with cognitive outcomes appears to be independent of the pathologies traditionally associated with late-life dementia. These findings suggest that psychosocial behavior influences late-life cognitive health through multiple neurobiologic mechanisms. A better understanding of these mechanisms may lead to novel strategies for preserving cognitive health in old age.
Process Simulation for the Design and Scale Up of Heterogeneous Catalytic Process: Kinetic Modelling Issues
Authors: Tripodi Antonio , Compagnoni Matteo , Martinazzo Rocco , Ramis Gianguido , Rossetti Ilenia
Published: May 2017

Process simulation represents an important tool for plant design and optimization, either applied to well established or to newly developed processes. Suitable thermodynamic packages should be selected in order to properly describe the behavior of reactors and unit operations and to precisely define phase equilibria. Moreover, a detailed and representative kinetic scheme should be available to predict correctly the dependence of the process on its main variables. This review points out some models and methods for kinetic analysis specifically applied to the simulation of catalytic processes, as a basis for process design and optimization. Attention is paid also to microkinetic modelling and to the methods based on first principles, to elucidate mechanisms and independently calculate thermodynamic and kinetic parameters. Different case studies support the discussion. At first, we have selected two basic examples from the industrial chemistry practice, e.g., ammonia and methanol synthesis, which may be described through a relatively simple reaction pathway and the relative available kinetic scheme. Then, a more complex reaction network is deeply discussed to define the conversion of bioethanol into syngas/hydrogen or into building blocks, such as ethylene. In this case, lumped kinetic schemes completely fail the description of process behavior. Thus, in this case, more detailed—e.g., microkinetic—schemes should be available to implement into the simulator. However, the correct definition of all the kinetic data when complex microkinetic mechanisms are used, often leads to unreliable, highly correlated parameters. In such cases, greater effort to independently estimate some relevant kinetic/thermodynamic data through Density Functional Theory (DFT)/ab initio methods may be helpful to improve process description.
Catalytic Processes for Utilizing Carbohydrates Derived from Algal Biomass
Authors: Yamaguchi Sho , Motokura Ken , Tanaka Kan , Imamura Sousuke
Published: May 2017

The high productivity of oil biosynthesized by microalgae has attracted increasing attention in recent years. Due to the application of such oils in jet fuels, the algal biosynthetic pathway toward oil components has been extensively researched. However, the utilization of the residue from algal cells after oil extraction has been overlooked. This residue is mainly composed of carbohydrates (starch), and so we herein describe the novel processes available for the production of useful chemicals from algal biomass-derived sugars. In particular, this review highlights our latest research in generating lactic acid and levulinic acid derivatives from polysaccharides and monosaccharides using homogeneous catalysts. Furthermore, based on previous reports, we discuss the potential of heterogeneous catalysts for application in such processes.
Solar and Visible Light Illumination on Immobilized Nano Zinc Oxide for the Degradation and Mineralization of Orange G in Wastewater
Authors: Shu Hung-Yee , Chang Ming-Chin , Tseng Tien-Hsin
Published: May 2017

An advanced oxidation process (AOP) utilizing immobilized zinc oxide (ZnO) photocatalyst was employed to decolorize and mineralize orange G (OG) azo dye in wastewater under solar and visible light irradiation. This AOP employed visible light and ZnO in a so-called Vis/ZnO process. Operating parameters, including ZnO dosage, initial OG concentration, pH, visible-light intensity, catalyst loaded area, and treatment volume were investigated to illustrate their influences on OG degradation and mineralization. From the results, neither visible light alone, nor the ZnO adsorption process could degrade or remove OG from wastewater. However, for the Vis/ZnO process, the higher ZnO dosage and visible light intensity are two major parameters to improve the OG degradation and total organic carbons (TOC) mineralization. The initial pH of 11 was the most effective pH condition on the OG degradation. The first-order rate constant is exponentially decreased from 0.025 to 0.0042 min−1 with the increase of the initial OG concentration and an empirical equation can be derived to estimate the first-order rate constant with a known initial OG concentration. In contrast, the first-order rate constant is linearly increased from 0.0027 to 0.0083 min−1 by increasing the visible light intensity. The results present that the Vis/ZnO process is an effective AOP for the degradation of OG in wastewater.
Use of Metal Catalysts Bearing Schiff Base Macrocycles for the Ring Opening Polymerization (ROP) of Cyclic Esters
Authors: Redshaw Carl
Published: May 2017

Schiff base macrocycles are emerging as useful scaffolds for binding two or more catalytic metals in close proximity. Such coordination chemistry allows for the evaluation of potentially beneficial catalytic cooperative effects. In the field of ring opening polymerization (ROP) of cyclic esters, only a handful of metal systems bound by Schiff base [2 + 2] type macrocycles have been studied. Nevertheless, results to date have, for certain metals, identified some interesting structure activity relationships, whilst for other systems results have revealed particular combinations of metals and macrocycles to be virtually inactive. This perspective review takes a look at two types of recently-reported Schiff base macrocycles that have been employed as pro-ligands in the metal-catalyzed ROP of cyclic esters, specifically ε-caprolactone and rac-lactide.
Catalytic Decomposition of N2O over Cu–Zn/ZnAl2O4 Catalysts
Authors: Zheng Xiaoying , Zhang Runhu , Bai Fang , Hua Chao
Published: May 2017

The catalytic decomposition of N2O was investigated over Cu-Zn/ZnAl2O4 catalysts in the temperature range of 400–650 °C Catalytic samples have been prepared by wet impregnation method. Prepared catalysts were characterized using several techniques like BET surface area, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The Cu-Zn/ZnAl2O4 showed higher catalytic performance along with long term stability during N2O decomposition. The Cu-Zn/ZnAl2O4 catalysts yielded 100% N2O conversion at 650 °C. The Cu-Zn/ZnAl2O4 catalysts are promising for decrease this strong greenhouse gas in the chemical industry.
Genetic Testing among Children in a Complex Care Program
Authors: Oei Krista , Hayeems Robin , Ungar Wendy , Cohn Ronald , Cohen Eyal
Published: May 2017

Little is known about the pattern of genetic testing and frequency of genetic diagnoses among children enrolled in structured complex care programs (CCPs). Such information may inform the suitability of emerging genome diagnostics for this population. The objectives were to describe the proportion of children with undiagnosed genetic conditions despite genetic testing and measure the testing period, types and costs of genetic tests used. A retrospective analysis of 420 children enrolled in Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children’s CCP from January 2010 until June 2014 was conducted. Among those who underwent genetic testing (n = 319; 76%), a random sample of 20% (n = 63) was further analyzed. A genetic diagnosis was confirmed in 48% of those who underwent testing. Those with no genetic diagnosis underwent significantly more genetic tests than those with a confirmed genetic diagnosis [median interquartile range (IQR): six tests (4–9) vs. three tests (2–4), p = 0.002], more sequence-level tests and a longer, more expensive testing period than those with a genetic diagnosis [median (IQR): length of testing period: 4.12 years (1.73–8.42) vs. 0.35 years (0.12–3.04), p < 0.001; genetic testing costs C$8496 ($4399–$12,480) vs. C$2614 ($1605–$4080), p < 0.001]. A genetic diagnosis was not established for 52% of children. Integrating genome-wide sequencing into clinical care may improve diagnostic efficiency and yield in this population.
Climate Change in Afghanistan Deduced from Reanalysis and Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX)—South Asia Simulations
Authors: Aich Valentin , Akhundzadah Noor , Knuerr Alec , Khoshbeen Ahmad , Hattermann Fred , Paeth Heiko , Scanlon Andrew , Paton Eva
Published: May 2017

Past and the projected future climate change in Afghanistan has been analyzed systematically and differentiated with respect to its different climate regions to gain some first quantitative insights into Afghanistan’s vulnerability to ongoing and future climate changes. For this purpose, temperature, precipitation and five additional climate indices for extremes and agriculture assessments (heavy precipitation; spring precipitation; growing season length (GSL), the Heat Wave Magnitude Index (HWMI); and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI)) from the reanalysis data were examined for their consistency to identify changes in the past (data since 1950). For future changes (up to the year 2100), the same parameters were extracted from an ensemble of 12 downscaled regional climate models (RCM) of the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX)-South Asia simulations for low and high emission scenarios (Representative Concentration Pathways 4.5 and 8.5). In the past, the climatic changes were mainly characterized by a mean temperature increase above global level of 1.8 °C from 1950 to 2010; uncertainty with regard to reanalyzed rainfall data limited a thorough analysis of past changes. Climate models projected the temperature trend to accelerate in the future, depending strongly on the global carbon emissions (2006–2050 Representative Concentration Pathways 4.5/8.5: 1.7/2.3 °C; 2006–2099: 2.7/6.4 °C, respectively). Despite the high uncertainty with regard to precipitation projections, it became apparent that the increasing evapotranspiration is likely to exacerbate Afghanistan’s already existing water stress, including a very strong increase of frequency and magnitude of heat waves. Overall, the results show that in addition to the already extensive deficiency in adaptation to current climate conditions, the situation will be aggravated in the future, particularly in regard to water management and agriculture. Thus, the results of this study underline the importance of adequate adaptation to climate change in Afghanistan. This is even truer taking into account that GSL is projected to increase substantially by around 20 days on average until 2050, which might open the opportunity for extended agricultural husbandry or even additional harvests when water resources are properly managed.
Energy-Aware Real-Time Task Scheduling in Multiprocessor Systems Using a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Mahmood Amjad , Khan Salman , Albalooshi Fawzi , Awwad Noor
Published: May 2017

Minimizing power consumption to prolong battery life has become an important design issue for portable battery-operated devices such as smartphones and personal digital assistants (PDAs). On a Dynamic Voltage Scaling (DVS) enabled processor, power consumption can be reduced by scaling down the operating frequency of the processor whenever the full processing speed is not required. Real-time task scheduling is a complex and challenging problem for DVS-enabled multiprocessor systems. This paper first formulates the real-time task scheduling for DVS-enabled multiprocessor systems as a combinatorial optimization problem. It then proposes a genetic algorithm that is hybridized with the stochastic evolution algorithm to allocate and schedule real-time tasks with precedence constraints. It presents specialized crossover and perturb operations as well as a topology preserving algorithm to generate the initial population. A comprehensive simulation study has been done using synthetic and real benchmark data to evaluate the performance of the proposed Hybrid Genetic Algorithm (HGA) in terms of solution quality and efficiency. The performance of the proposed HGA has been compared with the genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization, cuckoo search, and ant colony optimization. The simulation results show that HGA outperforms the other algorithms in terms of solution quality.
Performance Analysis of a Four-Switch Three-Phase Grid-Side Converter with Modulation Simplification in a Doubly-Fed Induction Generator-Based Wind Turbine (DFIG-WT) with Different External Disturbances
Authors: Ni Kai , Hu Yihua , Liu Yang , Gan Chun
Published: May 2017

This paper investigates the performance of a fault-tolerant four-switch three-phase (FSTP) grid-side converter (GSC) in a doubly-fed induction generator-based wind turbine (DFIG-WT). The space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) technique is simplified and unified duty ratios are used for controlling the FSTP GSC. Steady DC-bus voltage, sinusoidal three-phase grid currents and unity power factor are obtained. In addition, the balance of capacitor voltages is accomplished based on the analysis of current flows at the midpoint of DC bus in different operational modes. Besides, external disturbances such as fluctuating wind speed and grid voltage sag are considered to test its fault-tolerant ability. Furthermore, the effects of fluctuating wind speed on the performance of DFIG-WT system are explained according to an approximate expression of the turbine torque. The performance of the proposed FSTP GSC is simulated in Matlab/Simulink 2016a based on a detailed 1.5 MW DFIG-WT Simulink model. Experiments are carried out on a 2 kW platform by using a discrete signal processor (DSP) TMS320F28335 controller to validate the reliability of DFIG-WT for the cases with step change of the stator active power and grid voltage sag, respectively.
Bifurcation Phenomena Studies of a Voltage Controlled Buck-Inverter Cascade System
Authors: Li Xiaofei , Tang Chunsen , Dai Xin , Hu Aiguo , Nguang Sing
Published: May 2017

This paper studies the complex bifurcation phenomena of a voltage-controlled Buck-inverter cascade system. A state-flow chart is drawn to illustrate the complex relations among the linear operating modes. Combined with the state transition function of each mode, the time response of the system can be obtained. For period-one steady state, the periodic mapping function and its fixed point are further derived, on the basis of which the Jacobi matrix is developed and its maximum eigenvalue is analyzed to understand the bifurcation diagram. By globally analyzing the state space using this cell mapping method, the coexistence of attractors is revealed in the Buck-inverter system. All theoretical results have been verified experimentally on a prototype system. The results obtained can be used for guiding the design and analysis of the Buck-inverter system. The analyzing method can be helpful for studying other power electronics systems with compound topologies.