bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RETRACTED: An Admission-to-Discharge BNP Increase Is a Predictor of Six-Month All-Cause Death in ADHF Patients: Inferences from Multivariate Analysis Including Admission BNP and Various Clinical Measures of Congestion
Authors: De Vecchis Renato , Ariano Carmelina , Baldi Cesare
Published: November 2016

Background: According to some authors, a single isolated measurement of serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) executed on hospital admission would not be a sufficiently accurate method to predict the outcome of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Aims: To verify this assumption, a retrospective study was conducted on patients hospitalized for ADHF. Our main objective was to ascertain whether there was any difference in midterm mortality among patients with increasing BNP at discharge as compared with those with decreasing BNP at discharge. Methods: Medical records were examined so as to make a partition of the ADHF patient population into two groups, the former characterized by a rise in BNP during hospitalization, and the latter exhibiting a decrease in BNP in the measurement taken at hospital discharge. Results: 177 patients were enrolled in a retrospective study. Among them, 53 patients (30%) had increased BNP at the time of discharge, whereas 124 (70%) showed decreases in serum BNP during their hospital stay. The group with patients who exhibited BNP increases at the time of discharge had a higher degree of congestion evident in the higher frequency of persistent jugular venous distention and persistent orthopnea at discharge. Moreover, patients with increased BNP at the time of discharge had a lower reduction in inferior vena cava maximum diameter (1.58 ± 2.2 mm vs. 6.32 ± 1.82 mm; p (one-way ANOVA) = 0.001). In contrast, there was no significant difference in weight loss when patients with increased BNP at discharge were compared with those with no such increase. A total of 14 patients (7.9%) died during the six-month follow-up period. Multivariable Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis revealed that a BNP increase at the time of discharge was an independent predictor of six-month all-cause mortality after adjustment for persistent jugular venous distention, persistent orthopnea, reduction in inferior vena cava maximum diameter at discharge, weight loss, serum urea, systolic blood pressure at admission, and BNP at admission (hazard ratio = 30.5424; 95% CI: 1.7409–535.8294, p = 0.0199). Conclusions: Among patients with a history of ADHF, more elevated BNP levels at the time of discharge from the hospital compared with those detected at admission identify a patient subset with a higher grade of congestion and higher six-month mortality.
Inkjet Printing of Functional Materials for Optical and Photonic Applications
Authors: Alamán Jorge , Alicante Raquel , Peña Jose , Sánchez-Somolinos Carlos
Published: November 2016

Inkjet printing, traditionally used in graphics, has been widely investigated as a valuable tool in the preparation of functional surfaces and devices. This review focuses on the use of inkjet printing technology for the manufacturing of different optical elements and photonic devices. The presented overview mainly surveys work done in the fabrication of micro-optical components such as microlenses, waveguides and integrated lasers; the manufacturing of large area light emitting diodes displays, liquid crystal displays and solar cells; as well as the preparation of liquid crystal and colloidal crystal based photonic devices working as lasers or optical sensors. Special emphasis is placed on reviewing the materials employed as well as in the relevance of inkjet in the manufacturing of the different devices showing in each of the revised technologies, main achievements, applications and challenges.
Chemical and Genetic Diversity of Nodularia spumigena from the Baltic Sea
Authors: Mazur-Marzec Hanna , Bertos-Fortis Mireia , Toruńska-Sitarz Anna , Fidor Anna , Legrand Catherine
Published: November 2016

Nodularia spumigena is a toxic, filamentous cyanobacterium occurring in brackish waters worldwide, yet forms extensive recurrent blooms in the Baltic Sea. N. spumigena produces several classes of non-ribosomal peptides (NRPs) that are active against several key metabolic enzymes. Previously, strains from geographically distant regions showed distinct NRP metabolic profiles. In this work, conspecific diversity in N. spumigena was studied using chemical and genetic approaches. NRP profiles were determined in 25 N. spumigena strains isolated in different years and from different locations in the Baltic Sea using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Genetic diversity was assessed by targeting the phycocyanin intergenic spacer and flanking regions (cpcBA-IGS). Overall, 14 spumigins, 5 aeruginosins, 2 pseudaeruginosins, 2 nodularins, 36 anabaenopeptins, and one new cyanopeptolin-like peptide were identified among the strains. Seven anabaenopeptins were new structures; one cyanopeptolin-like peptide was discovered in N. spumigena for the first time. Based on NRP profiles and cpcBA-IGS sequences, the strains were grouped into two main clusters without apparent influence of year and location, indicating persistent presence of these two subpopulations in the Baltic Sea. This study is a major step in using chemical profiling to explore conspecific diversity with a higher resolution than with a sole genetic approach.
A New Experimental Approach to Improve the Quality of Low Grade Silica; The Combination of Indirect Ultrasound Irradiation with Reverse Flotation and Magnetic Separation
Authors: Haghi Hamed , Noaparast Mohammad , Shafaei Tonkaboni Sied , Mirmohammadi Mirsaleh
Published: November 2016

Removal of iron impurities in silica is one of the most important issues in the glass industry. The most noted impurities are surface coating and staining on silica particles; additionally, some cases of inclusions are observed. The prepared silica sample, for this research work, mostly was in the size range of 106–425 µm. Mineralogical studies indicated the existence of goethite, hematite, limonite and pyrite as the major iron impurities. The poor liberation degree of silica particles from clays encouraged the use of ultrasound irradiation to improve the efficiency of reverse flotation. The head sample contained 96.98% SiO2, 0.143% Fe2O3, 1.52% Al2O3, and 0.088% TiO2; Fe2O3 had to be reduced to below 0.04%. The reverse flotation tests were carried out with and without indirect ultrasound irradiation. The lowest Fe2O3 grade of the flotation yield was 0.058% and this was achieved using 2000 g/t of C4 collector with 15 min conditioning at neutral pH. C4 consisted of Aero 801, Aero 825, oleic acid and sodium oleate at equal dosage. As a result, a flowsheet was developed to include indirect ultrasound irradiation with reverse flotation and two stages of dry high intensity magnetic separation. In conclusion, the best product contained 98.43% SiO2, 0.034% Fe2O3, 0.90% Al2O3 and 0.051% TiO2.
Enantioselective Analytical- and Preparative-Scale Separation of Hexabromocyclododecane Stereoisomers Using Packed Column Supercritical Fluid Chromatography
Authors: Riddell Nicole , Mullin Lauren , Van Bavel Bert , Ericson Jogsten Ingrid , McAlees Alan , Brazeau Allison , Synnott Scott , Lough Alan , McCrindle Robert , Chittim Brock
Published: November 2016

Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCDD) is an additive brominated flame retardant which has been listed in Annex A of the Stockholm Convention for elimination of production and use. It has been reported to persist in the environment and has the potential for enantiomer-specific degradation, accumulation, or both, making enantioselective analyses increasingly important. The six main stereoisomers of technical HBCDD (i.e., the (+) and (−) enantiomers of α-, β-, and γ-HBCDD) were separated and isolated for the first time using enantioselective packed column supercritical fluid chromatography (pSFC) separation methods on a preparative scale. Characterization was completed using published chiral liquid chromatography (LC) methods and elution profiles, as well as X-ray crystallography, and the isolated fractions were definitively identified. Additionally, the resolution of the enantiomers, along with two minor components of the technical product (δ- and ε-HBCDD), was investigated on an analytical scale using both LC and pSFC separation techniques, and changes in elution order were highlighted. Baseline separation of all HBCDD enantiomers was achieved by pSFC on an analytical scale using a cellulose-based column. The described method emphasizes the potential associated with pSFC as a green method of isolating and analyzing environmental contaminants of concern.
Simultaneous Determination of Coumarin and Its Derivatives in Tobacco Products by Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Ren Zhiqin , Nie Bo , Liu Tong , Yuan Fei , Feng Feng , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Weie , Xu Xiuli , Yao Meiyi , Zhang Feng
Published: November 2016

In this paper an analytical method based on high performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) for the determination of coumarin and its derivatives in tobacco products was developed. The MS/MS fragmentation pathways of the eight coumarins were elucidated. The new analytical method was defined based on two main axes, an extraction procedure with acetonitrile and analyte detection performed by HPLC-MS/MS in electron impact mode. The excellent selectivity and sensitivity achieved in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode allowed satisfactory confirmation and quantitation for the coumarin flavor additives. Under the optimized gradient elution conditions, it took only 4.5 min to separate all eight coumarins. Good linearity for all the analytes were confirmed by the correlation coefficient r2, ranging from 0.9987 to 0.9996. The limits of detection (LODs) and limits of quantitation (LOQs) of these compounds were in the range of 0.5–1.7 μg/kg and 1.7–5.2 μg/kg, respectively. The average recoveries at three spiked levels (LOQ, 1.5LOQ, 2LOQ) were all in the range of 69.6%–95.1% with RSDs (n = 6) lower than 5.3%. The method of HPLC-MS/MS developed in this study was initially applied to the research of coumarin flavor additives in tobacco products collected from the located market in Beijing from China and proved to be accurate, sensitive, convenient and practical.
Contact Resistance and Channel Conductance of Graphene Field-Effect Transistors under Low-Energy Electron Irradiation
Authors: Giubileo Filippo , Di Bartolomeo Antonio , Martucciello Nadia , Romeo Francesco , Iemmo Laura , Romano Paola , Passacantando Maurizio
Published: November 2016

We studied the effects of low-energy electron beam irradiation up to 10 keV on graphene-based field effect transistors. We fabricated metallic bilayer electrodes to contact mono- and bi-layer graphene flakes on SiO2, obtaining specific contact resistivity ρ c ≈ 19 k Ω · µ m 2 and carrier mobility as high as 4000 cm2·V−1·s−1. By using a highly doped p-Si/SiO2 substrate as the back gate, we analyzed the transport properties of the device and the dependence on the pressure and on the electron bombardment. We demonstrate herein that low energy irradiation is detrimental to the transistor current capability, resulting in an increase in contact resistance and a reduction in carrier mobility, even at electron doses as low as 30 e−/nm2. We also show that irradiated devices recover their pristine state after few repeated electrical measurements.
Hybrid Nanostructures Containing Sulfadiazine Modified Chitosan as Antimicrobial Drug Carriers
Authors: Munteanu Bogdanel , Dumitriu Raluca , Profire Lenuta , Sacarescu Liviu , Hitruc Gabriela , Stoleru Elena , Dobromir Marius , Matricala Ana , Vasile Cornelia
Published: November 2016

Chitosan (CH) nanofibrous structures containing sulfadiazine (SDZ) or sulfadiazine modified chitosan (SCH) in the form of functional nanoparticles attached to nanofibers (hybrid nanostructures) were obtained by mono-axial and coaxial electrospinning. The mono-axial design consisted of a SDZ/CH mixture solution fed through a single nozzle while the coaxial design consisted of SCH and CH solutions separately supplied to the inner and outer nozzle (or in reverse order). The CH ability to form nanofibers assured the formation of a nanofiber mesh, while SDZ and SCH, both in form of suspensions in the electrospun solution, assured the formation of active nanoparticles which remained attached to the CH nanofiber mesh after the electrospinning process. The obtained nanostructures were morphologically characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The SDZ release profiles and kinetics were analyzed. The SDZ or SCH nanoparticles loosely attached at the surface of the nanofibers, provide a burst release in the first 20 min, which is important to stop the possible initial infection in a wound, while the SDZ and SCH from the nanoparticles which are better confined (or even encapsulated) into the CH nanofibers would be slowly released with the erosion/disruption of the CH nanofiber mesh.
Temporal Changes of Human Breast Milk Lipids of Chinese Mothers
Authors: Giuffrida Francesca , Cruz-Hernandez Cristina , Bertschy Emmanuelle , Fontannaz Patric , Masserey Elmelegy Isabelle , Tavazzi Isabelle , Marmet Cynthia , Sanchez-Bridge Belén , Thakkar Sagar , De Castro Carlos , Vinyes-Pares Gerard , Zhang Yumei , Wang Peiyu
Published: November 2016

Fatty acids (FA), phospholipids (PL), and gangliosides (GD) play a central role in infant growth, immune and inflammatory responses. The aim of this study was to determine FA, PL, and GD compositional changes in human milk (HM) during lactation in a large group of Chinese lactating mothers (540 volunteers) residing in Beijing, Guangzhou, and Suzhou. HM samples were collected after full expression from one breast and while the baby was fed on the other breast. FA were assessed by direct methylation followed by gas chromatography (GC) analysis. PL and GD were extracted using chloroform and methanol. A methodology employing liquid chromatography coupled with an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD) and with time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometry was used to quantify PL and GD classes in HM, respectively. Saturated FA (SFA), mono-unsaturated FA (MUFA), and PL content decreased during lactation, while polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) and GD content increased. Among different cities, over the lactation time, HM from Beijing showed the highest SFA content, HM from Guangzhou the highest MUFA content and HM from Suzhou the highest n-3PUFA content. The highest total PL and GD contents were observed in HM from Suzhou. In order to investigate the influence of the diet on maternal milk composition, a careful analyses of dietary habits of these population needs to be performed in the future.
Post-Earthquake Damage Inspection of Wood-Frame Buildings by a Polarimetric GB-SAR System
Authors: Liu Hai , Koyama Christian , Zhu Jinfeng , Liu Qinghuo , Sato Motoyuki
Published: November 2016

Structural damage inspection after an earthquake is essential for safety assessment of the affected wood-frame buildings and for making knowledgeable decision regarding their repair, renovation, or replacement. We present a polarimetric radar system for sensing the concealed wood-frames damaged by earthquakes. This system employs an antenna array consisting of four linearly polarized Vivaldi antennas recording full-polarimetric radar echoes in an ultra-wideband ranging from 1 to 20 GHz. The detailed design of the system and the signal processing algorithms for high-resolution 3D imaging are introduced. We conducted a number of surveys on damaged wooden wall specimens in laboratory. The experiment results indicate that the high-frequency radar waves can penetrate the wooden walls. Deformations of wooden structures (about 2 cm displacement) inside the wall, as well as the concealed small metal nails (about 3 mm in diameter and less than 2 cm in length) and bolts can be clearly imaged. The shape and orientation of the wooden members have shown a great sensitivity to the radar polarization. It is concluded that radar polarimetry can provide much richer information on the condition of concealed building structures than the conventional single-polarization subsurface penetrating radar.
Wind Turbine Wake Characterization from Temporally Disjunct 3-D Measurements
Authors: Doubrawa Paula , Barthelmie Rebecca , Wang Hui , Pryor S. , Churchfield Matthew
Published: November 2016

Scanning LiDARs can be used to obtain three-dimensional wind measurements in and beyond the atmospheric surface layer. In this work, metrics characterizing wind turbine wakes are derived from LiDAR observations and from large-eddy simulation (LES) data, which are used to recreate the LiDAR scanning geometry. The metrics are calculated for two-dimensional planes in the vertical and cross-stream directions at discrete distances downstream of a turbine under single-wake conditions. The simulation data are used to estimate the uncertainty when mean wake characteristics are quantified from scanning LiDAR measurements, which are temporally disjunct due to the time that the instrument takes to probe a large volume of air. Based on LES output, we determine that wind speeds sampled with the synthetic LiDAR are within 10% of the actual mean values and that the disjunct nature of the scan does not compromise the spatial variation of wind speeds within the planes. We propose scanning geometry density and coverage indices, which quantify the spatial distribution of the sampled points in the area of interest and are valuable to design LiDAR measurement campaigns for wake characterization. We find that scanning geometry coverage is important for estimates of the wake center, orientation and length scales, while density is more important when seeking to characterize the velocity deficit distribution.
Mechanical Fault Diagnosis of High Voltage Circuit Breakers Based on Variational Mode Decomposition and Multi-Layer Classifier
Authors: Huang Nantian , Chen Huaijin , Cai Guowei , Fang Lihua , Wang Yuqiang
Published: November 2016

Mechanical fault diagnosis of high-voltage circuit breakers (HVCBs) based on vibration signal analysis is one of the most significant issues in improving the reliability and reducing the outage cost for power systems. The limitation of training samples and types of machine faults in HVCBs causes the existing mechanical fault diagnostic methods to recognize new types of machine faults easily without training samples as either a normal condition or a wrong fault type. A new mechanical fault diagnosis method for HVCBs based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) and multi-layer classifier (MLC) is proposed to improve the accuracy of fault diagnosis. First, HVCB vibration signals during operation are measured using an acceleration sensor. Second, a VMD algorithm is used to decompose the vibration signals into several intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). The IMF matrix is divided into submatrices to compute the local singular values (LSV). The maximum singular values of each submatrix are selected as the feature vectors for fault diagnosis. Finally, a MLC composed of two one-class support vector machines (OCSVMs) and a support vector machine (SVM) is constructed to identify the fault type. Two layers of independent OCSVM are adopted to distinguish normal or fault conditions with known or unknown fault types, respectively. On this basis, SVM recognizes the specific fault type. Real diagnostic experiments are conducted with a real SF6 HVCB with normal and fault states. Three different faults (i.e., jam fault of the iron core, looseness of the base screw, and poor lubrication of the connecting lever) are simulated in a field experiment on a real HVCB to test the feasibility of the proposed method. Results show that the classification accuracy of the new method is superior to other traditional methods.
Robust Approach for Nonuniformity Correction in Infrared Focal Plane Array
Authors: Boutemedjet Ayoub , Deng Chenwei , Zhao Baojun
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we propose a new scene-based nonuniformity correction technique for infrared focal plane arrays. Our work is based on the use of two well-known scene-based methods, namely, adaptive and interframe registration-based exploiting pure translation motion model between frames. The two approaches have their benefits and drawbacks, which make them extremely effective in certain conditions and not adapted for others. Following on that, we developed a method robust to various conditions, which may slow or affect the correction process by elaborating a decision criterion that adapts the process to the most effective technique to ensure fast and reliable correction. In addition to that, problems such as bad pixels and ghosting artifacts are also dealt with to enhance the overall quality of the correction. The performance of the proposed technique is investigated and compared to the two state-of-the-art techniques cited above.
Traffic Management for Emergency Vehicle Priority Based on Visual Sensing
Authors: Nellore Kapileswar , Hancke Gerhard
Published: November 2016

Vehicular traffic is endlessly increasing everywhere in the world and can cause terrible traffic congestion at intersections. Most of the traffic lights today feature a fixed green light sequence, therefore the green light sequence is determined without taking the presence of the emergency vehicles into account. Therefore, emergency vehicles such as ambulances, police cars, fire engines, etc. stuck in a traffic jam and delayed in reaching their destination can lead to loss of property and valuable lives. This paper presents an approach to schedule emergency vehicles in traffic. The approach combines the measurement of the distance between the emergency vehicle and an intersection using visual sensing methods, vehicle counting and time sensitive alert transmission within the sensor network. The distance between the emergency vehicle and the intersection is calculated for comparison using Euclidean distance, Manhattan distance and Canberra distance techniques. The experimental results have shown that the Euclidean distance outperforms other distance measurement techniques. Along with visual sensing techniques to collect emergency vehicle information, it is very important to have a Medium Access Control (MAC) protocol to deliver the emergency vehicle information to the Traffic Management Center (TMC) with less delay. Then only the emergency vehicle is quickly served and can reach the destination in time. In this paper, we have also investigated the MAC layer in WSNs to prioritize the emergency vehicle data and to reduce the transmission delay for emergency messages. We have modified the medium access procedure used in standard IEEE 802.11p with PE-MAC protocol, which is a new back off selection and contention window adjustment scheme to achieve low broadcast delay for emergency messages. A VANET model for the UTMS is developed and simulated in NS-2. The performance of the standard IEEE 802.11p and the proposed PE-MAC is analysed in detail. The NS-2 simulation results have shown that the PE-MAC outperforms the IEEE 802.11p in terms of average end-to-end delay, throughput and energy consumption. The performance evaluation results have proven that the proposed PE-MAC prioritizes the emergency vehicle data and delivers the emergency messages to the TMC with less delay compared to the IEEE 802.11p. The transmission delay of the proposed PE-MAC is also compared with the standard IEEE 802.15.4, and Enhanced Back-off Selection scheme for IEEE 802.15.4 protocol [EBSS, an existing protocol to ensure fast transmission of the detected events on the road towards the TMC] and the comparative results have proven the effectiveness of the PE-MAC over them. Furthermore, this research work will provide an insight into the design of an intelligent urban traffic management system for the effective management of emergency vehicles and will help to save lives and property.
Influence of PZT Coating Thickness and Electrical Pole Alignment on Microresonator Properties
Authors: Janusas Giedrius , Ponelyte Sigita , Brunius Alfredas , Guobiene Asta , Vilkauskas Andrius , Palevicius Arvydas
Published: November 2016

With increasing technical requirements in the design of microresonators, the development of new techniques for lightweight, simple, and inexpensive components becomes relevant. Lead zirconate titanate (PZT) is a powerful tool in the formation of these components, allowing a self-actuation or self-sensing capability. Different fabrication methods lead to the variation of the properties of the device itself. This research paper covers the fabrication of a novel PZT film and the investigations of its chemical, surface, and dynamic properties when film thickness is varied. A screen-printing technique was used for the formation of smooth films of 60 µm, 68 µm, and 25 µm thickness. A custom-made poling technique was applied to enhance the piezoelectric properties of the designed films. However, poling did not change any compositional or surface characteristics of the films; changes were only seen in the electrical ones. The results showed that a thinner poled PZT film having a chemical composition with the highest amount of copper and zirconium led to better electrical characteristics (generated voltage of 3.5 mV).
On Gait Analysis Estimation Errors Using Force Sensors on a Smart Rollator
Authors: Ballesteros Joaquin , Urdiales Cristina , Martinez Antonio , Van Dieën Jaap
Published: November 2016

Gait analysis can provide valuable information on a person’s condition and rehabilitation progress. Gait is typically captured using external equipment and/or wearable sensors. These tests are largely constrained to specific controlled environments. In addition, gait analysis often requires experts for calibration, operation and/or to place sensors on volunteers. Alternatively, mobility support devices like rollators can be equipped with onboard sensors to monitor gait parameters, while users perform their Activities of Daily Living. Gait analysis in rollators may use odometry and force sensors in the handlebars. However, force based estimation of gait parameters is less accurate than traditional methods, especially when rollators are not properly used. This paper presents an evaluation of force based gait analysis using a smart rollator on different groups of users to determine when this methodology is applicable. In a second stage, the rollator is used in combination with two lab-based gait analysis systems to assess the rollator estimation error. Our results show that: (i) there is an inverse relation between the variance in the force difference between handlebars and support on the handlebars—related to the user condition—and the estimation error; and (ii) this error is lower than 10% when the variation in the force difference is above 7 N. This lower limit was exceeded by the 95.83% of our challenged volunteers. In conclusion, rollators are useful for gait characterization as long as users really need the device for ambulation.
Continuation of Health Behaviors: Psychosocial Factors Sustaining Drinking Water Chlorination in a Longitudinal Study from Chad
Authors: Lilje Jonathan , Mosler Hans-Joachim
Published: November 2016

Behavior that has changed following promotion campaigns is usually not maintained at its initial level. Psychosocial factors for initiating behavior are often not the same as for the continuation of health behaviors such as water treatment and are much less understood. Better knowledge of factors for behavioral continuation would help to improve programs, both in the design of strategies for sustainable behavior change and by defining stronger criteria for the evaluation of sustainability. This study compared the mindsets of caregivers who continuously performed household drinking water treatment over time with individuals that stopped doing so in a population sample from Chad. Several factors from health psychology based on the Risks, Attitudes, Norms, Abilities, and Self-Regulation (RANAS) model were used to compare the two groups and examine their differing development. Normative factors such as others’ behavior, personal obligation, social support and discourse, perceived self-efficacy convictions, action control, and intention best discriminated between the two groups and developed significantly more positively over time for continuers of water treatment. These factors should be considered when designing future interventions intended to lead to sustainable behavior change.
Assessing the Recreation Value of Urban Woodland Using the Ecosystem Service Approach in Two Forests in the Munich Metropolitan Region
Authors: Lupp Gerd , Förster Bernhard , Kantelberg Valerie , Markmann Tim , Naumann Johannes , Honert Carolina , Koch Marc , Pauleit Stephan
Published: November 2016

Recreation is considered an important ecosystem services (ES) in urban woodlands and puts pressure on other ES. Visitor management strategies can be tools to safeguard biodiversity and ES. On-site data are necessary to evaluate the demand for outdoor recreation opportunities in urban woodlands, but also for providing more reliable values for monetization as a basis for multifunctional forest management, and for raising awareness for the importance of urban proximate forests. Such information can also be used for the assessment and monetization of socio-cultural ES, and hence, contribute to developing market-based mechanisms or to promoting these ES. In our paper, we demonstrate methods to describe recreational demand by collecting data from interviews and using camera traps in two forests in the north of Munich for visitor counting. Visitor numbers in the forests were much greater than rough estimations; visitors also had quite long travelling distances to the forests. Jogging or Nordic walking were proven to be important recreational activities. In some of the monitored locations, almost half of the recreationists carried out these sports. Depending on the method chosen, the calculative monetary value of recreation reached up to 15,440 Euro per hectare per year.
A Systematic Approach to Identify Promising New Items for Small to Medium Enterprises: A Case Study
Authors: Jeong Sukjae , Han Jaehyun , Kim Jihyun
Published: November 2016

Despite the growing importance of identifying new business items for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), most previous studies focus on conglomerates. The paucity of empirical studies has also led to limited real-life applications. Hence, this study proposes a systematic approach to find new business items (NBIs) that help the prospective SMEs develop, evaluate, and select viable business items to survive the competitive environment. The proposed approach comprises two stages: (1) the classification of diversification of SMEs; and (2) the searching and screening of business items. In the first stage, SMEs are allocated to five groups, based on their internal technological competency and external market conditions. In the second stage, based on the types of SMEs identified in the first stage, a set of alternative business items is derived by combining the results of portfolio analysis and benchmarking analysis. After deriving new business items, a market and technology-driven matrix analysis is utilized to screen suitable business items, and the Bruce Merrifield-Ohe (BMO) method is used to categorize and identify prospective items based on market attractiveness and internal capability. To illustrate the applicability of the proposed approach, a case study is presented.
Methodology for Monitoring Sustainable Development of Isolated Microgrids in Rural Communities
Authors: Rahmann Claudia , Núñez Oscar , Valencia Felipe , Arrechea Susana , Sager Jalel , Kammen Daniel
Published: November 2016

Microgrids are a rapidly evolving and increasingly common form of local power generation used to serve the needs of both rural and urban communities. In this paper, we present a methodology to evaluate the evolution of the sustainability of stand-alone microgrids projects. The proposed methodology considers a composite sustainability index (CSI) that includes both positive and negative impacts of the operation of the microgrid in a given community. The CSI is constructed along environmental, social, economic and technical dimensions of the microgrid. The sub-indexes of each dimension are aggregated into the CSI via a set of adaptive weighting factors, which indicate the relative importance of the corresponding dimension in the sustainability goals. The proposed methodology aims to be a support instrument for policy makers especially when defining sound corrective measures to guarantee the sustainability of small, isolated microgrid projects. To validate the performance of the proposed methodology, a microgrid installed in the northern part of Chile (Huatacondo) has been used as a benchmarking project.
Energetic Sustainability Using Renewable Energies in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Franzitta Vincenzo , Curto Domenico , Rao Davide
Published: November 2016

The paper is focused on the analysis of the electrical energy sector in the Maltese islands, focusing on the employment of Renewable Energies in order to increase its energy independence. The main renewable source here proposed is wave energy: thanks to its strategic position, Malta will be able to generate electrical energy through the use of an innovative type of Wave Energy Converter (WEC) based on the prototype of linear generator designed and developed by the University of Palermo. This new technology will be able to cut down the electrical energy production from traditional power plants and, consequently, the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Wave energy source and off-shore photovoltaic (PV) technology are proposed here. Particularly, the installation of 18 wave farms, for a total installed capacity of 130 MW, will generate about 5.7% of Malta’s energy requests in 2025, while the installation of 60 MW of off-shore PV will generate about 4.4%.
Towards Engineering Novel PE-Based Immunotoxins by Targeting Them to the Nucleus
Authors: Borowiec Marta , Gorzkiewicz Michal , Grzesik Joanna , Walczak-Drzewiecka Aurelia , Salkowska Anna , Rodakowska Ewelina , Steczkiewicz Kamil , Rychlewski Leszek , Dastych Jaroslaw , Ginalski Krzysztof
Published: November 2016

Exotoxin A (PE) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacterial ADP-ribosyltransferase, which can permanently inhibit translation in the attacked cells. Consequently, this toxin is frequently used in immunotoxins for targeted cancer therapies. In this study, we propose a novel modification to PE by incorporating the NLS sequence at its C-terminus, to make it a selective agent against fast-proliferating cancer cells, as a nucleus-accumulated toxin should be separated from its natural substrate (eEF2) in slowly dividing cells. Here, we report the cytotoxic activity and selected biochemical properties of newly designed PE mutein using two cellular models: A549 and HepG2. We also present a newly developed protocol for efficient purification of recombinant PE and its muteins with very high purity and activity. We found that furin cleavage is not critical for the activity of PE in the analyzed cell lines. Surprisingly, we observed increased toxicity of the toxin accumulated in the nucleus. This might be explained by unexpected nuclease activity of PE and its potential ability to cleave chromosomal DNA, which seems to be a putative alternative intoxication mechanism. Further experimental investigations should address this newly detected activity to identify catalytic residues and elucidate the molecular mechanism responsible for this action.
Uncertainty Analysis in Data-Scarce Urban Catchments
Authors: Ballinas-González Héctor , Alcocer-Yamanaka Victor , Pedrozo-Acuña Adrián
Published: November 2016

The evaluation of the uncertainties in model predictions is key for advancing urban drainage modelling practice. This paper investigates, for the first time in Mexico, the effect of parameter sensitivity and predictive uncertainty in an application of a well-known urban stormwater model. Two of the most common methods used for assessing hydrological model parameter uncertainties are used: the Generalised Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation (GLUE) and a multialgorithm, genetically adaptive multi-objective method (AMALGAM). The uncertainty is estimated from eight selected hydrologic parameters used in the setup of the rainfall-runoff model. To ensure the reliability of the model, four rainfall events varying from 20 mm to 120 mm from minor to major count classes were selected. The results show that, for the selected storms, both techniques generate results with similar effectiveness, as measured using well-known error metrics; GLUE was found to have a slightly better performance compared to AMALGAM. In particular, it was demonstrated that it is possible to obtain reliable models with an index of agreement (IAd) greater than 60 and average Absolute Percentage Error (EAP) less than 30 percent derived from the uncertainty analysis. Thus, the quantification of uncertainty enables the generation of more reliable flow predictions. Moreover, these methods show the impact of aggregation of errors arising from different sources, minimising the amount of subjectivity associated with the model’s predictions.
Sb2S3 grown by ultrasonic spray pyrolysis and its application in a hybrid solar cell
Authors: Kärber Erki , Katerski Atanas , Oja Acik Ilona , Mere Arvo , Mikli Valdek , Krunks Malle
Published: November 2016

Chemical spray pyrolysis (CSP) is a fast wet-chemical deposition method in which an aerosol is guided by carrier gas onto a hot substrate where the decomposition of the precursor chemicals occurs. The aerosol is produced using an ultrasonic oscillator in a bath of precursor solution and guided by compressed air. The use of the ultrasonic CSP resulted in the growth of homogeneous and well-adhered layers that consist of submicron crystals of single-phase Sb2S3 with a bandgap of 1.6 eV if an abundance of sulfur source is present in the precursor solution (SbCl3/SC(NH2)2 = 1:6) sprayed onto the substrate at 250 °C in air. Solar cells with glass-ITO-TiO2-Sb2S3-P3HT-Au structure and an active area of 1 cm2 had an open circuit voltage of 630 mV, short circuit current density of 5 mA/cm2, a fill factor of 42% and a conversion efficiency of 1.3%. Conversion efficiencies up to 1.9% were obtained from solar cells with smaller areas.
Relation between treatment duration and temperature factors in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Pauk Jolanta , Wasilewska Agnieszka , Chwiećko Justyna , Domysławska Izabela , Sierakowski Stanisław , Idźkowski Adam , Daunoravičienė Kristina , Griškevičius Julius
Published: November 2016

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease which results
in the loss of joint function and several deformities. The aim of the study was to evaluate the
influence of duration of the disease and prescribed treatment on the temperature of RA joints.

Methods: The evaluation was carried out on 30 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and 30 typical
subjects as a control group. Thermograms were taken using thermograph camera.

Results: Statistically significant difference was found for ankle joint temperature between the
group of patients treated for more than 10 years and healthy subjects.

Conclusions: The observations indicate that mean temperature of the skin above the ankle joint
tends to decrease with rising duration of disease course. Progression of a RA leads to an erosive
destruction in ankle joint in late stages of a disease.
The influence of barbell’s weight, lifting technique and skills on weightlifter’s blood pressure and heart rate
Authors: Mariūnas Mečislovas , Griškevičius Julius , Jonaitis Gintaras
Published: November 2016

Article presents hodographs of the arterial blood pressure relation to heart-rate enabling
to evaluate organism sensitivity of trained weightlifter to the magnitude of lifted weight, lifting
technique and weight repeatability. Variation regularities of the latter relation have been explained
and approximate criterions of relative stability and skill level were formulated. Analysing
variations of the relation of the arterial blood pressure to the heart-rate and barbell’s lifting
accelerations and velocities the weaknesses of trained weightlifters have been explained. It has
shown that in most cases the blood pressure of the weightlifter can increase 8–13% after the barbell
drop.
Estimation of the parameters of barbell’ lifting law of motion
Authors: Mariūnas Mečislovas , Griškevičius Julius , Jonaitis Gintaras
Published: November 2016

Characteristic points of the law of motion were determined based on the results of
experimental study on the velocities and accelerations of the lifted barbell. Relationship between
the height of the athlete, lifted weight, maximal velocity and acceleration was estimated
analytically. It was shown, that at the initial time moment the athlete must apply approximately
1,5 times larger force than lifted weight. The values of the parameters of the barbell’ law of motion
and lifting force approximate law of change were estimated.
THE 3–4 μm SPECTRA OF JUPITER TROJAN ASTEROIDS
Authors: Brown M. E.
Published: November 2016

To date, reflectance spectra of Jupiter Trojan asteroids have revealed no distinctive absorption features. For this reason, the surface composition of these objects remains a subject of speculation. Spectra have revealed, however, that the Jupiter Trojan asteroids consist of two distinct sub-populations that differ in the optical to near-infrared colors. The origins and compositional differences between the two sub-populations remain unclear. Here, we report the results from a 2.2–3.8 μm spectral survey of a collection of 16 Jupiter Trojan asteroids, divided equally between the two sub-populations. We find clear spectral absorption features centered around 3.1 μm in the less-red population. Additional absorption consistent with that expected from organic materials might also be present. No such features are see in the red population. A strong correlation exists between the strength of the 3.1 μm absorption feature and the optical to near-infrared color of the objects. While, traditionally, absorptions such as these in dark asteroids are modeled as being due to fine-grain water frost, we find it physically implausible that the special circumstances required to create such fine-grained frost would exist on a substantial fraction of the Jupiter Trojan asteroids. We suggest, instead, that the 3.1 μm absorption on Trojans and other dark asteroids could be due to N–H stretch features. Additionally, we point out that reflectivities derived from WISE observations show a strong absorption beyond 4 μm for both populations. The continuum of 3.1 μm features and the common absorption beyond 4 μm might suggest that both sub-populations of Jupiter Trojan asteroids formed in the same general region of the early solar system.
CO2 INFRARED PHONON MODES IN INTERSTELLAR ICE MIXTURES
Authors: Cooke Ilsa R. , Fayolle Edith C. , Öberg Karin I.
Published: November 2016

CO2 ice is an important reservoir of carbon and oxygen in star- and planet-forming regions. Together with water and CO, CO2 sets the physical and chemical characteristics of interstellar icy grain mantles, including desorption and diffusion energies for other ice constituents. A detailed understanding of CO2 ice spectroscopy is a prerequisite to characterize CO2 interactions with other volatiles both in interstellar ices and in laboratory experiments of interstellar ice analogs. We report laboratory spectra of the CO2 longitudinal optical (LO) phonon mode in pure CO2 ice and in CO2 ice mixtures with H2O, CO, and O2 components. We show that the LO phonon mode position is sensitive to the mixing ratio of various ice components of astronomical interest. In the era of the James Webb Space Telescope, this characteristic could be used to constrain interstellar ice compositions and morphologies. More immediately, LO phonon mode spectroscopy provides a sensitive probe of ice mixing in the laboratory and should thus enable diffusion measurements with higher precision than has been previously possible.
DETERMINATION OF PULSATION PERIODS AND OTHER PARAMETERS OF 2875 STARS CLASSIFIED AS MIRA IN THE ALL SKY AUTOMATED SURVEY (ASAS)
Authors: Vogt N. , Contreras-Quijada A. , Fuentes-Morales I. , Vogt-Geisse S. , Arcos C. , Abarca C. , Agurto-Gangas C. , Caviedes M. , DaSilva H. , Flores J. , Gotta V. , Peñaloza F. , Rojas K. , Villaseñor J. I.
Published: November 2016

We have developed an interactive PYTHON code and derived crucial ephemeris data of 99.4% of all stars classified as “Mira” in the ASAS database, referring to pulsation periods, mean maximum magnitudes, and whenever possible, the amplitudes among others. We present a statistical comparison between our results and those given by the International Variable Star Index (VSX) of the American Association of Variable Star Observers, as well as those determined with the machine learning automatic procedure of Richards et al. Our periods are in good agreement with those of the VSX in more than 95% of the stars. However, when comparing our periods with those of Richards et al., the coincidence rate is only 76% and most of the remaining cases refer to aliases. We conclude that automatic codes still require more refinements in order to provide reliable period values. Period distributions of the target stars show three local maxima around 215, 275, and 330 days, apparently of universal validity; their relative strength seems to depend on galactic longitude. Our visual amplitude distribution turns out to be bimodal, however, 1/3 of the targets have rather small amplitudes (A < 2.5
m
) and could refer to semiregular variables (SR). We estimate that about 20% of our targets belong to the SR class. We also provide a list of 63 candidates for period variations and a sample of 35 multiperiodic stars that seem to confirm the universal validity of typical sequences in the double period and in the Petersen diagrams.