bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Bubbles on Crystallization Behavior of CaO–SiO2 Based Slags
Authors: Gu Shaopeng , Wen Guanghua , Ding Zequan , Guo Junli , Tang Ping , Liu Qiang
Published: February 2019

Surface longitudinal cracks are a serious problem and particularly prevalent in the casting of peritectic steel (carbon content between 0.10%C and 0.18%C, non-alloyed). It is usually alleviated by controlling the horizontal heat transfer from the steel shell to the mold through increasing the crystallization performance of slags. In the actual continuous casting process, a large number of bubbles are formed in the molten slags, and the crystallization properties of the mold fluxes are affected by bubbles. Therefore, an investigation of the influence of bubbles on the crystallization performance of mold fluxes was carried out by applying the hot thermocouple technique and it is hoped that surface longitudinal cracks can be solved in this way in the peritectic steel casting process. The continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagrams and time–temperature transformation (TTT) diagrams were constructed for an analysis of the crystallization kinetics. The results showed that the crystallization ability of mold fluxes was enhanced by adding bubbles through shortening the incubation time of crystallization, increasing the critical cooling rate, and decreasing the activation energy of crystallization. As a result, the crystalline fraction, slag film thickness, and surface roughness of the slag films were improved, but the crystalline phase was not affected by bubbles. With an increase of the bubble content remaining in the molten slag, the growth mechanism of the cuspidine crystal phase changed from a low dimension to a high dimension, and the content of the molten slag’s structure unit (Q1) needed for cuspidine in the molten slag was markedly increased.
Effects of Tempering Temperature on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of T92 Heat-Resistant Steel
Authors: Zhao Dandan , Zhang Shenghua , Zhang Hai , Li Shilei , Xiao Huifang , Wang Yanli , Wang Xitao
Published: February 2019

T92 heat-resistant steel is among the most promising candidate materials for structural components in the Generation IV (GEN-IV) reactors. The effects of tempering temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the T92 steel were studied. The microstructural evolution of the T92 steel subjected to various temperatures of the tempering process were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and synchrotron radiation X-ray diffraction (SR-XRD). The mechanical properties of Vickers hardness, tensile test, and impact test were also investigated. The results showed that the grain size of the prior austenite does not significantly change during the tempering process, while the width of the martensite lath and the size of the carbide precipitates increased with increasing tempering temperature. The hardness and yield strength of the T92 steel decreased, and the plasticity and impact energy increased with increasing tempering temperature. Coarsening of the carbide precipitates during the tempering process was considered to be the dominant factor that reduced the yield strength in the T92 steel.
Laminated TRIP/TWIP Steel Composites Produced by Roll Bonding
Authors: Qiu Yangxi , Kaden Nico , Schmidtchen Matthias , Prahl Ulrich , Biermann Horst , Weidner Anja
Published: February 2019

In order to investigate the roll bonding of high-alloy transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) and twinning induced plasticity (TWIP) steel, roll-bonded sheets of the TRIP and TWIP steel were manufactured starting from hot rolling, followed by brushing and cold rolling. Both, the microstructure and mechanical properties of the roll-bonded sheets were characterized by metallographic investigations, and tensile and T-peel tests. Preliminary results, such as an occurrence of an adhesive bonding between two TWIP steel sheets and between TRIP and TWIP steel sheet after a thickness reduction of approximately 50% were obtained. Moreover, the formation of deformation-induced martensite leads to outstanding mechanical properties of the roll-bonded composite sheet. An ultra-fine grained microstructure was observed in the bonding zone after only one roll-bonding process. The obtained promising results demonstrate the possibility of the development of an accumulative roll-bonding process for TRIP/TWIP steel composites.
The Foodborne Strain Lactobacillus fermentum MBC2 Triggers pept-1-Dependent Pro-Longevity Effects in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Schifano Emily , Zinno Paola , Guantario Barbara , Roselli Marianna , Marcoccia Sante , Devirgiliis Chiara , Uccelletti Daniela
Published: February 2019

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are involved in several food fermentations and many of them provide strain-specific health benefits. Herein, the probiotic potential of the foodborne strain Lactobacillus fermentum MBC2 was investigated through in vitro and in vivo approaches. Caenorhabditis elegans was used as an in vivo model to analyze pro-longevity and anti-aging effects. L. fermentum MBC2 showed a high gut colonization capability compared to E. coli OP50 (OP50) or L. rhamnosus GG (LGG). Moreover, analysis of pumping rate, lipofuscin accumulation, and body bending showed anti-aging effects in L. fermentum MBC2-fed worms. Studies on PEPT-1 mutants demonstrated that pept-1 gene was involved in the anti-aging processes mediated by this bacterial strain through DAF-16, whereas the oxidative stress protection was PEPT-1 independent. Moreover, analysis of acid tolerance, bile tolerance, and antibiotic susceptibility were evaluated. L. fermentum MBC2 exerted beneficial effects on nematode lifespan, influencing energy metabolism and oxidative stress resistance, resulted in being tolerant to acidic pH and able to adhere to Caco-2 cells. Overall, these findings provide new insight for application of this strain in the food industry as a newly isolated functional starter. Furthermore, these results will also shed light on C. elegans molecular players involved in host-microbe interactions.
Volatiles Profiling, Allelopathic Activity, and Antioxidant Potentiality of Xanthium Strumarium Leaves Essential Oil from Egypt: Evidence from Chemometrics Analysis
Authors: El-Gawad Ahmed Abd , Elshamy Abdelsamed , El Gendy Abd El-Nasser , Gaara Ahmed , Assaeed Abdulaziz
Published: February 2019

The essential oil (EO) of Xanthium strumarium L. leaves (family: Asteraceae) was extracted by hydrodistillation, and then analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Forty-three essential compounds were identified. The sesquiterpenoids represented the major constituents (72.4%), including oxygenated (61.78%) and non-oxygenated (10.62%) sesquiterpenes, followed by monoterpenes (25.19%). The diterpenoids and oxygenated hydrocarbons were determined as minor compounds. The main constituents of the EO were 1,5-dimethyltetralin (14.27%), eudesmol (10.60%), l-borneol (6.59%), ledene alcohol (6.46%), (-)-caryophyllene oxide (5.36%), isolongifolene, 7,8-dehydro-8a-hydroxy (5.06%), L-bornyl acetate (3.77%), and aristolene epoxide (3.58%). A comparative analysis was stated here between the EO of Egyptian X. strumarium and those previously reported from Pakistan, Iran, and Brazil based on chemometic tools such as principal components analysis (PCA) and agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC). The EO of X. strumarium showed weak 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity with IC50 321.93 µL/L−1, which was comparable to ascorbic acid as a reference. However, the EO exhibited significant allelopathic potential regarding the germination and growth of the noxious weed Bidens pilosa in a concentration-dependent manner. Therefore, further study is recommended to characterize the EO from X. strumarium as an eco-friendly green bioherbicide against weeds, as well as determine their mode of actions.
New Multitarget Hybrids Bearing Tacrine and Phenylbenzothiazole Motifs as Potential Drug Candidates for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Rajeshwari Rajeshwari , Chand Karam , Candeias Emanuel , Cardoso Sandra M. , Chaves Sílvia , Santos M. Amélia
Published: February 2019

Research on neurodegenerative brain disorders, namely the age-dependent Alzheimer’s disease (AD), has been intensified in the last decade due to the absence of a cure and the recognized increasing of life expectancy for populations. To address the multifactorial nature and complexity of AD, a multi-target-directed ligand approach was herein employed, by designing a set of six selected hybrids (14–19) that combine in the same entity two pharmacophores: tacrine (TAC) and 2-phenylbenzothiazole (PhBTA). The compounds contain a methoxy substituent at the PhBTA moiety and have a variable length linker between that and the TAC moiety. The docking studies showed that all the compounds assure a dual-binding mode of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, establishing π-stacking and H-bond interactions with aminoacid residues at both active binding sites of the enzyme (CAS and PAS). The bioassays revealed that the designed compounds display excellent AChE inhibitory activity in the sub-micromolar range (0.06–0.27 μM) and moderate inhibition values for amyloid-β (Aβ) self-aggregation (27–44.6%), compounds 14 and 15 being the lead compounds. Regarding neuroprotective effects in neuroblastoma cells, compounds 15, 16 and 19 revealed capacity to prevent Aβ-induced toxicity, but compound 16 showed the highest neuroprotective effect. Overall these hybrid compounds, in particular 15 and 16, with promising multitarget anti-AD ability, encourage further pursuing studies on this type of TAC-PhBTA derivatives for potential AD therapy.
Gelatin-Based Hydrogels through Homobifunctional Triazolinediones Targeting Tyrosine Residues
Authors: Guizzardi Roberto , Vaghi Luca , Marelli Marcello , Natalello Antonino , Andreosso Ivan , Papagni Antonio , Cipolla Laura
Published: February 2019

Gelatin is a biopolymer with interesting properties that can be useful for biomaterial design for different applications such as drug delivery systems, or 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering. However, gelatin suffers from poor mechanical stability at physiological temperature, hence methods for improving its properties are highly desirable. In the present work, a new chemical cross-linking strategy based on triazolinedione ene-type chemistry towards stable hydrogel is proposed. Two different homobifunctional 1,2,4-triazoline-3,5(4H)-diones, namely 4,4′-hexane-1,6-diylbis(3H-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5(4H)-dione) 1 and 4,4′-[methylenebis(4,1-phenylene)]bis(3H-1,2,4-triazoline-3,5(4H)-dione) 2 were used as cross-linkers in different ratio to tyrosine residues in gelatin. The reaction was proved effective in all experimented conditions and hydrogels featured with different thermal stability were obtained. In general, the higher the cross-linker/tyrosine ratio, the more thermostable the hydrogel. The swelling properties are strictly dependent upon the chemical nature of the cross-linker.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Mono- and Disubstituted 4-Hydroxyacetophenone Derivatives via Mannich Reaction: Synthesis, XRD and HS-Analysis
Authors: Aljohani Ghadah , Said Musa A. , Lentz Dieter , Basar Norazah , Albar Arwa , Alraqa Shaya Y. , Ali Adeeb Al-Sheikh
Published: February 2019

An efficient microwave-assisted one-step synthetic route toward Mannich bases is developed from 4-hydroxyacetophenone and different secondary amines in quantitative yields, via a regioselective substitution reaction. The reaction takes a short time and is non-catalyzed and reproducible on a gram scale. The environmentally benign methodology provides a novel alternative, to the conventional methodologies, for the synthesis of mono- and disubstituted Mannich bases of 4-hydroxyacetophenone. All compounds were well-characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and mass spectrometry. The structures of 1-{4-hydroxy-3-[(morpholin-4-yl)methyl]phenyl}ethan-1-one (2a) and 1-{4-hydroxy-3-[(pyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl]phenyl}ethan-1-one (3a) were determined by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Compound 2a and 3a crystallize in monoclinic, P21/n, and orthorhombic, Pbca, respectively. The most characteristic features of the molecular structure of 2a is that the morpholine fragment adopts a chair conformation with strong intramolecular hydrogen bonding. Compound 3a exhibits intermolecular hydrogen bonding, too. Furthermore, the computed Hirshfeld surface analysis confirms H-bonds and π–π stack interactions obtained by XRD packing analyses.
Development and Optimization of the Biological Conversion of Ethane to Ethanol Using Whole-Cell Methanotrophs Possessing Methane Monooxygenase
Authors: Oh So Hyeon , Hwang In Yeub , Lee Ok Kyung , Won Wangyun , Lee Eun Yeol
Published: February 2019

The biological production of ethanol from ethane for the utilization of ethane in natural gas was investigated under ambient conditions using whole-cell methanotrophs possessing methane monooxygenase. Several independent variables including ethane concentration and biocatalyst amounts, among other factors, were optimized for the enhancement of ethane-to-ethanol bioconversion. We obtained 0.4 g/L/h of volumetric productivity and 0.52 g/L of maximum titer in optimum batch reaction conditions. In this study, we demonstrate that the biological gas-to-liquid conversion of ethane to ethanol has potent technical feasibility as a new application of ethane gas.
Efficient Synthesis of Furfural from Biomass Using SnCl4 as Catalyst in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Nie Yifan , Hou Qidong , Li Weizun , Bai Chuanyunlong , Bai Xinyu , Ju Meiting
Published: February 2019

Furfural is a versatile platform molecule for the synthesis of various chemicals and fuels, and it can be produced by acid-catalyzed dehydration of xylose derived from renewable biomass resources. A series of metal salts and ionic liquids were investigated to obtain the best combination of catalyst and solvent for the conversion of xylose into furfural. A furfural yield of 71.1% was obtained at high xylose loading (20 wt%) from the single-phasic reaction system whereby SnCl4 was used as catalyst and ionic liquid 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bromide (EMIMBr) was used as reaction medium. Moreover, the combined catalyst consisting of 5 mol% SnCl4 and 5 mol% MgCl2 also produced a high furfural yield (68.8%), which was comparable to the furfural yield obtained with 10 mol% SnCl4. The water–organic solvent biphasic systems could improve the furfural yield compared with the single aqueous phase. Although these organic solvents could form biphasic systems with ionic liquid EMIMBr, the furfural yield decreased remarkably compared with the single EMIMBr phase. Besides, the EMIMBr/SnCl4 system with appropriate water was also efficient to convert xylan and lignocellulosic biomass corn stalk into furfural, obtaining furfural yields as high as 57.3% and 54.5%, respectively.
Synthesis of Aromatic Rings Embedded in Polycyclic Scaffolds by Triyne Cycloaddition: Competition between Carbonylative and Non-Carbonylative Pathways
Authors: Salacz Laura , Girard Nicolas , Suffert Jean , Blond Gaëlle
Published: February 2019

Cycloadditions have emerged as some of the most useful reactions for the formation of polycyclic compounds. The carbonylative cycloaddition of triynes can lead to carbonylative and non-carbonylative competitive pathways, each leading to the formation of an aromatic ring. We report herein the one-pot synthesis of fully- and unsymmetrically-substituted tetracyclic 6,5,7,5-troponic and 6,5,6,5-benzenoid scaffolds using pre-organized triynes showing the competition between these two pathways.
Diameter- and Length-controlled Synthesis of Ultrathin ZnS Nanowires and Their Size-Dependent UV Absorption Properties, Photocatalytical Activities and Band-Edge Energy Levels
Authors: Xing Guanjie , Liu Xiaoli , Hao Simeng , Li Xiaohong , Fan Louzhen , Li Yunchao
Published: February 2019

Benefiting from their ultra-small diameters and highly structural anisotropies, ultrathin semiconductor nanowires (USNWs) are well-known for their fascinating physical/chemical properties, as well as their promising applications in various fields. However, until now, it remains a challenge to synthesize high-quality USNWs with well-controlled diameters and lengths, let alone the exploration of their size-dependent properties and applications. To solve such a challenge, we report herein a ligand-induced low-temperature precursor thermolysis route for the controlled preparation of ultrathin ZnS nanowires, which is based on the oriented assembly of the in-situ formed ZnS clusters/tiny particles. Optimized synthetic conditions allowed the synthesis of ZnS nanowires with a diameter down to 1.0 nm and a length approaching 330 nm. The as-prepared ultrathin ZnS nanowires were then intensively examined by morphological, spectroscopic and electrochemical analytical means to explore their size-dependent optical absorption properties, photocatalytic activities and band-edge energy levels, as well as their underlying growth mechanism. Notably, these USNWs, especially for the thinnest nanowires, were identified to possess an excellent performance in both the selective absorption of ultraviolet (UV) light and photocatalytic degradation of dyes, thus enabling them to serve as longpass ultraviolet filters and high-efficiency photocatalysts, respectively. For the ultrathin ZnS nanowires with a diameter of 1.0 nm, it was also interesting to observe that their exciton absorption peak positions were kept almost unchanged during the continuous extension of their lengths, which has not been reported previously.
Constructing a Z-scheme Heterojunction of Egg-Like Core@shell CdS@TiO2 Photocatalyst via a Facile Reflux Method for Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Xue Yongtao , Wu Zhansheng , He Xiufang , Yang Xia , Chen Xiaoqing , Gao Zhenzhen
Published: February 2019

A well designed and accurate method of control of different shell thickness and electronic transmission in a Z-scheme core@shell system is conducive to obtaining an optimum photocatalytic performance. Herein, the Z-scheme heterojunction of egg-like core@shell CdS@TiO2photocatalysts with controlled shell thickness (13 nm, 15 nm, 17 nm, 22 nm) were synthesized by a facile reflux method, and the CdS@TiO2 structure was proved by a series of characterizations. The photodegradation ratio on methylene blue and tetracycline hydrochloride over the 0.10CdS@TiO2 composites with TiO2 shell thickness of 17 nm reached 90% in 250 min and 91% in 5 min, respectively, which was almost 9.8 times and 2.6 times than that of TiO2 and CdS on rhodamine B respectively under visible light. Besides, the higher total organic carbon removal ratio indicated that most of the pollutants were degraded to CO2 and H2O. The Z-scheme electronic transfer pathway was studied through radical species trapping experiments and electron spin resonance spectroscopy. Moreover, the relationship between shell thickness and photocatalytic activity demonstrated that different shell thickness affects the separation of the electron and holes, and therefore affected the photocatalytic performance. In addition, the effects of pollutants concentration, pH, and inorganic anions on photocatalytic performance were also investigated. This work can provide a novel idea for a well designed Z-scheme heterojunction of core@shell photocatalysts, and the study of photocatalytic performance under different factors has guiding significance for the treatment of actual wastewater.
Using N-doped Carbon Dots Prepared Rapidly by Microwave Digestion as Nanoprobes and Nanocatalysts for Fluorescence Determination of Ultratrace Isocarbophos with Label-Free Aptamers
Authors: Li Xin , Jiang Xin , Liu Qingye , Liang Aihui , Jiang Zhiliang
Published: February 2019

The strongly fluorescent and highly catalytic N-doped carbon dots (CDN) were rapidly prepared by a microwave irradiation procedure and were characterized by electron microscopy (EM), laser scattering, infrared spectroscopy (IR), and by their fluorescence spectrum. It was found that the CDN had a strong catalytic effect on the fluorescence reaction of 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine hydroxide ((TMB)–H2O2) which produced the oxidation product of TMB (TMBOX) with strong fluorescence at 406 nm. The aptamer (Apt) was adsorbed on the CDN surfaces which weakened the fluorescence intensity due to the inhibition of catalytic activity. When the target molecule isocarbophos (IPS) was added, it reacted with the Apt to form a stable conjugate and free CDN which restored the catalytic activity to enhance the fluorescence. Using TMBOX as a fluorescent probe, a highly sensitive nanocatalytic method for determination of 0.025–1.5 μg/L IPS was established with a detection limit of 0.015 μg/L. Coupling the CDN fluorescent probe with the Apt–IPS reaction, a new CD fluorescence method was established for the simple and rapid determination of 0.25–1.5 μg/L IPS with a detection limit of 0.11 μg/L.
Shape Memory Polyurethane Biocomposites Based on Toughened Polycaprolactone Promoted by Nano-Chitosan
Authors: Gupta Arvind , Kim Beom Soo
Published: February 2019

The distinctive ability to remember their original form after partial or complete deformation makes shape memory polymers remarkable materials for several engineering and biomedical applications. In the present work, the development of a polycaprolactone based toughened shape memory polyurethane biocomposite promoted by in situ incorporation of chitosan flakes has been demonstrated. The chitosan flakes were homogeneously present in the polymer matrix in the form of nanoflakes, as confirmed by the electron microscopic analysis and probably developed a crosslinked node that promoted toughness (a > 500% elongation at break) and led to a ~130% increment in ultimate tensile strength, as analyzed using a universal testing machine. During a tensile pull, X-ray analysis revealed the development of crystallites, which resulted from a stress induced crystallization process that may retain the shape and melting of the crystallites stimulating shape recovery (with a ~100% shape recovery ratio), even after permanent deformation. The biodegradable polyurethane biocomposite also demonstrates relatively high thermal stability (Tmax at ~360 °C). The prepared material possesses a unique shape memory behavior, even after permanent deformation up to a > 500% strain, which may have great potential in several biomedical applications.
The Beneficial Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 on High-Intensity, Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Performance in Triathletes
Authors: Huang Wen-Ching , Wei Chen-Chan , Huang Chi-Chang , Chen Wen-Lin , Huang Hui-Yu
Published: February 2019

A triathlon, which consists of swimming, bicycling, and running, is a high-intensity and long-term form of exercise that can cause injuries such as muscular damage, inflammation, oxidative stress, and energy imbalance. Probiotics are thought to play an important role in disease incidence, health promotion, and nutrient metabolism, but only a few studies have focused on physiological adaptations to exercise in sports science. Previous studies indicated that Lactobacillus supplementation could improve oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. We investigate the effects of Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 supplementation on triathletes for possible physiological adaptation. The triathletes were assigned to one of two groups with different exercise intensity stimulations with different time-points to investigate the effects of body compositions, inflammation, oxidative stress, performance, fatigue, and injury-related biochemical indices. L. plantarum PS128 supplementation, combined with training, can significantly alleviate oxidative stress (such as creatine kinase, Thioredoxin, and Myeloperoxidase indices) after a triathlon (p < 0.05). This effect is possibly regulated by a 6–13% decrease of indicated pro-inflammation (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8) cytokines (p < 0.05) and 55% increase of anti-inflammation (IL-10) cytokines (p < 0.05) after intensive exercise stimulation. In addition, L. plantarum PS128 can also substantially increase 24–69% of plasma-branched amino acids (p < 0.05) and elevate exercise performance, as compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, L. plantarum PS128 may be a potential ergogenic aid for better training management, physiological adaptations to exercise, and health promotion.
Applicability of a Modified Rat Model of Acute Arthritis for Long-Term Testing of Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Rudnik-Jansen Imke , Woike Nina , de Jong Suzanne , Versteeg Sabine , Kik Marja , Emans Pieter , Mihov George , Thies Jens , Eijkelkamp Niels , Tryfonidou Marianna , Creemers Laura
Published: February 2019

Episodes of inflammation and pain are predominant features of arthritic joint diseases. Drug delivery systems (DDS) could reduce inflammation and pain long-term without chances of infection upon multiple injections. To allow for long-term evaluation of DDS, we modified a previously published acute arthritis model by extending follow-up periods between flare-ups. Unilateral synovial inflammation of the knee was induced by intra-articular injection of streptococcal cell wall peptidoglycan polysaccharide (PGPS), and flare-ups were induced by intravenous PGPS injections every 4 weeks for a total duration of 84 days. In PGPS-reactivated animals, joint swelling, pain behavior, post mortem synovitis, and osteophyte formation were notable features. Hepatitis, splenitis and inflammation of non-primed joints were observed as systemic side effects. To test the applicability of the modified arthritis model for long-term testing of DDS, the duration of anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of a corticosteroid released from two different polymer-based platforms was evaluated. The current modified arthritis model has good applicability for testing of DDS for a prolonged period of time. Furthermore, the novel autoregulatory polyesteramide (PEA) microsphere platform releasing triamcinolone acetonide (TAA) was benchmarked against poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and reduced joint swelling and pain behavior more potently compared to TAA-loaded PLGA microspheres.
Hybrid Nanogels: Stealth and Biocompatible Structures for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Eslami Parisa , Rossi Filippo , Fedeli Stefano
Published: February 2019

Considering nanogels, we have focused our attention on hybrid nanosystems for drug delivery and biomedical purposes. The distinctive strength of these structures is the capability to join the properties of nanosystems with the polymeric structures, where versatility is strongly demanded for biomedical applications. Alongside with the therapeutic effect, a non-secondary requirement of the nanosystem is indeed its biocompatibility. The importance to fulfill this aim is not only driven by the priority to reduce, as much as possible, the inflammatory or the immune response of the organism, but also by the need to improve circulation lifetime, biodistribution, and bioavailability of the carried drugs. In this framework, we have therefore gathered the hybrid nanogels specifically designed to increase their biocompatibility, evade the recognition by the immune system, and overcome the self-defense mechanisms present in the bloodstream of the host organism. The works have been essentially organized according to the hybrid morphologies and to the strategies adopted to fulfill these aims: Nanogels combined with nanoparticles or with liposomes, and involving polyethylene glycol chains or zwitterionic polymers.
Kinetic Analysis of the Thermal Degradation of Recycled Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene by non-Isothermal Thermogravimetry
Authors: Balart Rafael , Garcia-Sanoguera David , Quiles-Carrillo Luis , Montanes Nestor , Torres-Giner Sergio
Published: February 2019

This work presents an in-depth kinetic study of the thermal degradation of recycled acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymer. Non-isothermal thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) data in nitrogen atmosphere at different heating rates comprised between 2 and 30 K min−1 were used to obtain the apparent activation energy (Ea) of the thermal degradation process of ABS by isoconversional (differential and integral) model-free methods. Among others, the differential Friedman method was used. Regarding integral methods, several methods with different approximations of the temperature integral were used, which gave different accuracies in Ea. In particular, the Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO), the Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), and the Starink methods were used. The results obtained by these methods were compared to the Kissinger method based on peak temperature (Tm) measurements at the maximum degradation rate. Combined Kinetic Analysis (CKA) was also carried out by using a modified expression derived from the general Sestak-Berggren equation with excellent results compared with the previous methods. Isoconversional methods revealed negligible variation of Ea with the conversion. Furthermore, the reaction model was assessed by calculating the characteristic y ( α ) and z ( α ) functions and comparing them with some master plots, resulting in a nth order reaction model with n = 1.4950, which allowed calculating the pre-exponential factor (A) of the Arrhenius constant. The results showed that Ea of the thermal degradation of ABS was 163.3 kJ mol−1, while ln A was 27.5410 (A in min−1). The predicted values obtained by integration of the general kinetic expression with the calculated kinetic triplet were in full agreement with the experimental data, thus giving evidence of the accuracy of the obtained kinetic parameters.
Servitization in Support of Sustainable Cities: What Are Steel’s Contributions and Challenges?
Authors: Pinto Julian T. M. , Morales Manuel E. , Fedoruk Mariia , Kovaleva Marina , Diemer Arnaud
Published: February 2019

In the pursuit of eco-efficiency, resilience, and self-sufficiency, sustainable cities focus on long-term environmental goals instead of only short-term economic ones. To do so, many of them rely on servitization, the practice of replacing tangible solutions for intangible ones. Considering steel’s wide range of applications and its pervasive presence, this article’s goal was twofold: Not only to understand how servitization helps sustainable cities, but also the contributions and challenges of the steel present in service-providing. To do so, the criteria of sustainable urban metabolism and circles of sustainability were used to analyze three case studies of servitization: energy, housing, and mobility. The results showed that servitization can provide significant benefits to sustainable cities, while also being able to substantially alter the supply-side dynamics of steelmaking by affecting, most notably, demand. This brought to light how important it is for steelmakers to pay close attention to the service-providing initiatives that may concern their clients and products. Nevertheless, further research is necessary to fully understand all of the effects that servitization can have on all of the commodities involved in its implementation.
Effects of Service Quality Policies in the Tourism Sector Performance: An Empirical Analysis of Spanish Hotels and Restaurants
Authors: Bagur-Femenías Llorenç , Perramon Jordi , Oliveras-Villanueva Marc
Published: February 2019

In the last few years, it has become essential, in order for companies to ensure their survival, to approach the customer and bet on quality. This is due to the importance of tourism in many economies and the increase in supply and demand. For this reason, there are numerous studies found in literature that evaluate the extent to which quality practices impact finances and competitiveness of tourism companies. Furthermore, the usual practice in many of these studies is to classify all types of tourism businesses in the same category, even though there seem to be significant a priori differences between them. The main objects of scrutiny in this study are restaurants and hospitality. The analysis of the aggregate results of two surveys carried out among executives in Spain that employed SEM methodology demonstrates that quality practices have influence, albeit indirectly, on a firm’s performance in a positive way. However, separate analysis of subsamples show disparities between hotels and restaurants. This paper illustrates that, although both subgroups operate in the same sector, they obtain different results from implementing quality policies. Therefore, the specific features and typology of the selected tourism company should be considered.
Green Marketing’s Roles in Sustainability and Ecopreneurship. Case Study: Green Packaging’s Impact on Romanian Young Consumers’ Environmental Responsibility
Authors: Kardos Mihaela , Gabor Manuela Rozalia , Cristache Nicoleta
Published: February 2019

In contemporary society, which is preoccupied with sustainability issues, green marketing highlights a new dimension of the economic, social, and environmental responsibilities of businesses. This article aims to provide an integrative vision on green marketing roles in informing, raising awareness, educating, and changing consumer behaviour towards sustainability and ecopreneurship and to highlight the results of research regarding PlantBottle® green packaging’s impact on the environmental responsibility of young consumers. The research was conducted based on a survey, and data were processed with statistical methods. The research results validate a set of hypotheses regarding: Romanian consumers’ lack of information leading to environmental responsibility; the impact of environmental information and awareness on green responsible behaviour; and the need to intensify efforts towards environmental responsibility. By the novelty of the research, which was conducted in a country that has rather recently become preoccupied with sustainability issues, the paper fills in a gap in a relatively limited research area: countries where green culture is developing and can become a landmark with implications for managers, educators, and the scientific community.
Integration of LaMnO3+δ films on platinized silicon substrates for resistive switching applications by PI-MOCVD
Authors: Rodriguez-Lamas Raquel , Pla Dolors , Chaix-Pluchery Odette , Meunier Benjamin , Wilhelm Fabrice , Rogalev Andrei , Rapenne Laetitia , Mescot Xavier , Rafhay Quentin , Roussel Hervé , Boudard Michel , Jiménez Carmen , Burriel Mónica
Published: February 2019

The next generation of electronic devices requires faster operation velocity, higher storage capacity and reduction of the power consumption. In this context, resistive switching memory chips emerge as promising candidates for developing new non-volatile memory modules. Manganites have received increasing interest as memristive material as they exhibit a remarkable switching response. Nevertheless, their integration in CMOS-compatible substrates, such as silicon wafers, requires further effort. Here the integration of LaMnO3+δ as memristive material in a metal–insulator–metal structure is presented using a silicon-based substrate and the pulsed injection metal organic chemical vapour deposition technique. We have developed three different growth strategies with which we are able to tune the oxygen content and Mn oxidation state moving from an orthorhombic to a rhombohedral structure for the active LaMnO3+δ material. Furthermore, a good resistive switching response has been obtained for LaMnO3+δ-based devices fabricated using optimized growth strategies.
THE ANALYSIS OF WEAR INTENSITY OF LUBRICATED AND UNLUBRICATED LOCOMOTIVE WHEEL SETS FLANGES
Authors: Mikaliūnas Šarūnas , Lingaitis Leonas Povilas , Vaičiūnas Gediminas
Published: February 2019

The wear dynamics of wheel ‐ set tyres of diesel locomotives was investigated. Basing on research results it is possible to predict wheel‐tyre safety margin, to improve maintenance and to state the periodicity of repair, as well as most efficiently to use traction rolling‐stock repair funds.
MODELLING OF FREIGHT FLOWS DISTRIBUTION AT THE TRANSPORT TERMINAL
Authors: Baublys Adolfas
Published: February 2019

The task model has been formulated for users of freight flows at a distribution transport terminal, which enables gauging vehicles possibilities (dimensions, carrying capacity), delivery time limitations, resources of vehicle time and general costs.

The synthesis of the topological structure of the freight road transport regional system has been performed. It enables the evaluation of an impact on the functioning of the system exercised by various structural system characteristics, thus improving the quality of project solutions at the stage of synthesis of the system structure.
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT IN TRANSPORT SECTOR ANALYSIS
Authors: Išoraite Margarita
Published: February 2019

The article analyses the following issues: 1. Performance measurement in literature. The performance measurement has an important role to play in the efficient and effective management of organizations. Kaplan and Johnson highlighted the failure of the financial measures to reflect changes in the competitive circumstances and strategies of modern organizations. Many authors have focused attention on how organizations can design more appropriate measurement systems. Based on literature, consultancy experience and action research, numerous processes have been developed that organizations can follow in order to design and implement systems. Many frameworks have been proposed that support these processes. The objective of such frameworks is to help organizations define a set of measures that reflect their objectives and assess their performance appropriately. 2. Transport sector performance and its impacts measuring. The purpose of transport measurement is to identify opportunities enhancing transport performance. Successful transport sector management requires a system to analyze its efficiency and effectiveness as well as plan interventions if transport sector performance needs improvement. Transport impacts must be measurable and monitorable so that the person responsible for the project intervention can decide when and how to influence them. Performance indicators provide a means to measure and monitor impacts. These indicators essentially reflect quantitative and qualitative aspects of impacts at given time and places. 3. Transport sector output and input. Transport sector inputs are the resources required to deliver transport sector outputs. Transport sector inputs are typically: human resources, particularly skilled resources (including specialists consulting inputs); technology processes such as equipment and work; and finance, both public and private. 4. Transport sector policy and institutional framework; 5. Cause ‐ effect linkages; 6. Alternatives analysis. The numerous courses of action could be taken to improve performance. However, due to limited resources choices have to be made. This requires prioritizing.
ANALYSIS OF THE PROSPECTIVES OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS CENTRES IN LITHUANIA
Authors: Palšaitis Ramūnas , Bazaras Darius
Published: February 2019

It is identified that the creation of regional logistics centres in Lithuania is one of the main measures of the improvement of transport-related infrastructure in the country. These centres will be the first public Logistics Centres in Lithuania established according to contemporary requirements and will provide necessary co‐operation with big trading companies and other logistics centres in and outside Europe.

Transport Corridors No I and No IX must be very important because Logistics Centres in Lithuania will have a significant impact on the business linked to separate regions and to the whole country.

The benefits deriving from an increase of international multimodal transit traffic will be also related to the complementary and boosting activities of logistic services associated with the development of logistics centres network in Lithuania.
KNOWLEDGE BASED EXPERT SYSTEM APPROACH TO INSTRUMENTATION SELECTION (INSEL)
Authors: Barai Sudhikumar , Pandey Padmesh Charan
Published: February 2019

The selection of appropriate instrumentation for any structural measurement of civil engineering structure is a complex task. Recent developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help in an organized use of experiential knowledge available on instrumentation for laboratory and in‐situ measurement. Usually, the instrumentation decision is based on the experience and judgment of experimentalists. The heuristic knowledge available for different types of measurement is domain dependent and the information is scattered in varied knowledge sources. The knowledge engineering techniques can help in capturing the experiential knowledge. This paper demonstrates a prototype knowledge based system for INstrument SELection (INSEL) assistant where the experiential knowledge for various structural domains can be captured and utilized for making instrumentation decision. In particular, this Knowledge Based Expert System (KBES) encodes the heuristics on measurement and demonstrates the instrument selection process with reference to steel bridges. INSEL runs on a microcomputer and uses an INSIGHT 2+ environment.
THE QUALITY OF MOTOR CARS AND ITS VARIATION IN TIME
Authors: Mickūnaitis Valentinas
Published: February 2019

The paper considers the quality of motor cars and its changes during the vehicle service life. The process is analysed in terms of the theory of reliability. The emphasis is placed on the analysis of the work without breakdown and such issues as probabilities of breakdowns and breakdown‐free operation, breakdown frequency, intensity and the average time of the vehicle run till failure.

Based on the statistical data breakdown probabilities of the particular systems, mechanisms and units, depending on the service life of a vehicle are determined.
THE NEW EUROPEAN TRANSPORT RESEARCH ACTIVITIES
Authors: Kabashkin Igor
Published: February 2019

In the beginning of 2004 two European organisations ‐ Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) and European Committee of Ministers of Transport (ECMT), established the Joint OECD/ ECMT Transport Research Centre. The mission, main areas of research activities and projects of new European research centre are described.
OPTIMISATION OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES IN TERMINALS
Authors: Jarašūniene Aldona
Published: February 2019

In this article technological processes in transport terminals are analysed. A technological scheme of the transport terminal is analysed graphically reflecting the sequence of working operations with regard to aerial location, necessary equipment, outfit and workers. A technological graph chart reflecting the technological acceptability and time normatives of technological operations of a transport process is present. The estimation and adaption of models in transport terminals are presented. A dynamic model serving the development of general transport capacities was elaboated for process modeling of transport terminals.
IMPROVEMENT OF THE PARAMETERS OF MAINTENANCE OF MEDIUM SPEED DIESELS APPLYING THE MOTOR METHODS
Authors: Lebedevas Sergejus , Vaicekauskas Andrius
Published: February 2019

The problem of the improvement of parameters of maintenance of medium speed diesel engines is described in the publication. The most rational way of solving this problem is the performing of calculational research by using modern programs of mathematical modelling. At the initial stage of the research the approbation of interapplication of computer programs with a different level of elaboration for the optimisation of the main indexes of medium speed diesel engines (fuel economy, reliability, emission of harmful components in exhaust gases) is performed. The investigated efficiency of separate motor methods was applied for diesel engines 6VDS 48/42 AL‐2 which are widely spread in the fleet of Lithuania. For the performance of further investigations the indirect criterion which estimates the phase of kinetic combustion and emission of nitric oxides is offered.
EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH INTO MOTOR VEHICLE OSCILLATIONS IN THE CASE OF CHANGEABLE DECELERATION
Authors: Pečeliūnas Robertas , Prentkovskis Olegas , Garbinčius Giedrius , Nagurnas Saulius , Pukalskas Saugirdas
Published: February 2019

In this paper processes of oscillation of flexible mounted and inflexible mounted masses are analysed. The tangential effect of the wheel contact with bearing surface is given, thus enabling more precise calculus of vehicle braking parameters. The methodology of research includes the development of mathematical algorithms and theoretical calculus of the analysed processes as well as the presentation of the influence of various factors on vehicle oscillations during braking. Analytical methods and those in figures have been applied for the research. Experimental investigations were carried out applying the electronic device VZM 100 measuring the acceleration of deceleration adapted for synchronous operation together with vibration processing system VAS‐21. The expert opportunities for modelling of vehicle movement are extended with the help of the created mathematical models used for the examination of road accidents related to vehicle braking.
AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE ENTERPRISES EXPENDITURES FORMATION ECONOMIC MODEL: SOLUTION PROBLEMS AND DIRECTIONS
Authors: Podolyakina Natalia
Published: February 2019

Under contemporary economic conditions the businessman is interested in the optimization of expenses. Equipment maintenance is one of the components of the enterprise expenses. That is why it is necessary to develop the model of the formation of the enterprise expenses aimed to the technical equipment maintenance. This model is taken into serious consideration making serious and thorough decisions on the quantity of expenses for providing the appropriate working equipment state and reliability level.
A PROCESSUAL METHOD, THE METHOD HELPING TO MANAGE THE QUALITY OF TRANSPORT SERVICES
Authors: Pankov Aleksandr , Petuhov Igor , Shestakov Vladimir
Published: February 2019

Transportation organization is inspected as three ground processes and each of these processes has dynamic indices. The connection of undynamics between these indices is the foundation for managing, the acception of managment decision and for a big number of other actions. There are some results of the aprobation of this method.
THE MODEL OF ALLOTMENTS BOOKING IN A SHUTTLE TRAIN
Authors: Jaržemskis Andrius
Published: February 2019

The article presents the model of allotments booking for trucks or containers in shuttle trains. This model could be used in practice if railway companies sale free allotments in rolling stock for forwarders. This paper proposes a stochastic dynamic programming model of a short‐term capacity planning model for necessary allotment. The allotment could be acquired by freight forwarders many months ahead on a contract basis, but usually the forecast demand is unreliable. The preplanning of allotment for transport units is needed when the date draws nearer to the train departure time. The presented model evaluates the optimal cost policy based on economic trade‐off between the cost of backlogged shipment and the cost of acquiring additional allotment.
EVALUATING EFFICIENCY AND EFFECTIVENESS IN TRANSPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Authors: Išoraite Margarita
Published: February 2019

The article analyses the following issues: 1. Needs of evaluation. 2. Evaluation techniques and tools. 3. Effectiveness, performance and results. 4. Theoretical views on organizational effectiveness. 5. Transport organizational effectiveness. Transport effectiveness refers to the effectiveness of transport agency's organizational systems in achieving its internal and external objectives. 6. Effective internal performance systems. 7. A model of transport organizational effectiveness. 8. Efficiency criterion.