bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Performance of Artificial Neural Networks and Fuzzy Logic for Recognizing Different Partial Discharge Sources
Authors: Mas’ud Abdullahi Abubakar , Ardila-Rey Jorge Alfredo , Albarracín Ricardo , Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus , Bani Nurul Aini
Published: July 2017

This paper compared the capabilities of the artificial neural network (ANN) and the fuzzy logic (FL) approaches for recognizing and discriminating partial discharge (PD) fault classes. The training and testing parameters for the ANN and FL comprise statistical fingerprints from different phase-amplitude-number (φ-q-n) measurements. Two PD fault classes considered are internal discharges in voids and surface discharges. In the void class, there are single voids, serial voids and parallel voids in polyethylene terephthalate (PET), while the surface discharge class comprises four different surface discharge arrangements on pressboard in oil at different voltages and angular positioning of the ground electrode on the respective pressboards. Previously, the ANN and FL have been investigated for PD classification, but there is no work reported in the literature that compares their performance, specifically when applied for real time PD detection problem. As expected, both the ANN and FL can recognize PD defect classes, but the results show that the ANN appears to be more robust as compared to the FL, but these conclusions required to be further investigated with complex PD examples. Finally, both the ANN and FL were assessed as practical PD classification. Despite of the limitations of the ANN, it is concluded that the ANN is better suited for practical PD recognition because of its ability to provide accurate recognition values and the severity level of PD defects.
A Smart Forecasting Approach to District Energy Management
Authors: Yuce Baris , Mourshed Monjur , Rezgui Yacine
Published: July 2017

This study presents a model for district-level electricity demand forecasting using a set of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) (parallel ANNs) based on current energy loads and social parameters such as occupancy. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis is conducted to select the inputs of the ANN by considering external weather conditions, occupancy type, main income providers’ employment status and related variables for the fuel poverty index. Moreover, a detailed parameter tuning is conducted using various configurations for each individual ANN. The study also demonstrates the strength of the parallel ANN models in different seasons of the years. In the proposed district level energy forecasting model, the training and testing stages of parallel ANNs utilise dataset of a group of six buildings. The aim of each individual ANN is to predict electricity consumption and the aggregated demand in sub-hourly time-steps. The inputs of each ANN are determined using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) methods. The accuracy and consistency of ANN predictions are evaluated using Pearson coefficient and average percentage error, and against four seasons: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. The lowest prediction error for the aggregated demand is about 4.51% for winter season and the largest prediction error is found as 8.82% for spring season. The results demonstrate that peak demand can be predicted successfully, and utilised to forecast and provide demand-side flexibility to the aggregators for effective management of district energy systems.
Correlation Characteristics Comparison of SF6 Decomposition versus Gas Pressure under Negative DC Partial Discharge Initiated by Two Typical Defects
Authors: Yang Dong , Tang Ju , Yang Xu , Li Ke , Zeng Fuping , Yao Qiang , Miao Yulong , Chen Lincong
Published: July 2017

Aimed to clarify the correlation characteristics between the internal partial discharge (PD) in negative direct current (DC) gas insulated system (GIS) and gas pressure initiated by two typical defects (i.e., free-metal particles and metal protrusion), this study on PD decomposition of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) was investigated under different pressures on the basis of constructing a SF6 decomposition experimental platform with DC PD. Free-metal particles and metal protrusion in a GIS were simulated using a spherical-bowl electrode and a needle-plate electrode, respectively. Trends and differences in the performance of SF6 decomposition components SOF2, SO2F2, CO2, and SO2 at different pressures were compared and analyzed by experiments under different defects. Based on gas microscopic ionization theory, the relationship between the decomposition component and gas pressure was deduced and verified. The concentrations of different decomposition components were found to vary with the change in gas pressure under different defects, whereas the characteristic ratios of decomposition components versus gas pressure showed a similar trend.
Developmental Expression of HSP60 and HSP10 in the Coilia nasus Testis during Upstream Spawning Migration
Authors: Fang Di-An , Zhou Yan-Feng , Zhang Min-Ying , Xu Dong-Po , Liu Kai , Duan Jin-Rong
Published: July 2017

Heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) and heat shock protein 10 (HSP10) are important chaperones, which have been proven to have essential roles in mediating the correct folding of nuclear encoded proteins imported to mitochondria. Mitochondria are known as the power house of the cell, with which it produces energy and respires aerobically. In this regard, the obtained HSP60 and HSP10 have typical characteristics of the HSP60/10 family signature. Their mRNA transcripts detected were highest during the developmental phase (in April), while the lowest levels were found in the resting phase (after spawning in late July). Additionally, the strongest immunolabeling positive signals were found in the primary spermatocyte, with lower positive staining in secondary sperm cells, and a weak or absent level in the mature sperm. At the electron microscopic level, immunogold particles were localized in the mitochondrial matrix. Data indicated that HSP10 and HSP60 were inducible and functional in the Coilia nasus testis development and migration process, suggesting their essential roles in this process. The results also indicated that HSP60 may be one indicator of properly working mitochondrial import and refolding in the fish testis. This study also provides an expanded perspective on the role of heat shock protein families in spawning migration biology.
Applicability of Natural Zeolite for NH-Forms Removal in Enzyme-Mediated Calcite Precipitation Technique
Authors: Putra Heriansyah , Yasuhara Hideaki , Kinoshita Naoki
Published: July 2017

This study evaluated the applicability of natural zeolite for the removal of the NH-forms in the enzyme-mediated calcite precipitation technique. The natural zeolite of mordenite was added to prepared grouting solutions composed of urea and urease and mixed thoroughly using a rotation table for the mixing times of 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 h. Then, the concentrations of evolving NH-forms in the solutions were measured. The effects of the presence of zeolite on the amount and the mineralogical substance of the precipitated minerals were also evaluated by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Sand samples were treated with the grouting solutions containing zeolite, and the improvement in strength was assessed. It was found that utilizing zeolite in grouting solutions can reduce the concentration of NH-forms. A significant reduction in the concentration of NH-forms was obtained. The addition of 10 g natural zeolite/L solution, combined with the 2-h mixing time, resulted in removal efficiencies of 75% and 45% in reagent concentrations of 0.5 and 1.0 mol/L, respectively. Mechanical test results showed that the grouting solutions also brought about a significant improvement in the soil strength. A precipitated material, comprising 9% of the sand mass, was produced by three pore volume (PV) injections of the grouting materials, which showed an unconfined compressive strength of 300 kPa.
Pediatric Respiratory Support Technology and Practices: A Global Survey
Authors: Arnim Amélie O. von Saint André-von , Jamal Shelina M. , John-Stewart Grace C. , Musa Ndidiamaka L. , Roberts Joan , Stanberry Larissa I. , Howard Christopher R. A.
Published: July 2017

Objective: This global survey aimed to assess the current respiratory support capabilities for children with hypoxemia and respiratory failure in different economic settings. Methods: An online, anonymous survey of medical providers with experience in managing pediatric acute respiratory illness was distributed electronically to members of the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Society, and other critical care websites for 3 months. Results: The survey was completed by 295 participants from 64 countries, including 28 High-Income (HIC) and 36 Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC). Most respondents (≥84%) worked in urban tertiary care centers. For managing acute respiratory failure, endotracheal intubation with mechanical ventilation was the most commonly reported form of respiratory support (≥94% in LMIC and HIC). Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) was the most commonly reported form of non-invasive positive pressure support (≥86% in LMIC and HIC). Bubble-CPAP was used by 36% HIC and 39% LMIC participants. ECMO for acute respiratory failure was reported by 45% of HIC participants, compared to 34% of LMIC. Oxygen, air, gas humidifiers, breathing circuits, patient interfaces, and oxygen saturation monitoring appear widely available. Reported ICU patient to health care provider ratios were higher in LMIC compared to HIC. The frequency of respiratory assessments was hourly in HIC, compared to every 2–4 h in LMIC. Conclusions: This survey indicates many apparent similarities in the presence of respiratory support systems in urban care centers globally, but system quality, quantity, and functionality were not established by this survey. LMIC ICUs appear to have higher patient to medical staff ratios, with decreased patient monitoring frequencies, suggesting patient safety should be a focus during the introduction of new respiratory support devices and practices.
Productivity Benefits from Plastic Mulch in Vegetable Production Likely to Limit Adoption of Alternate Practices that Deliver Water Quality Benefits: An On-Farm Case Study
Authors: Nachimuthu Gunasekhar , Halpin Neil V. , Bell Michael J.
Published: July 2017

Intensive tillage, high fertiliser inputs, and plastic mulch on the soil surface are widely used by vegetable growers. A field investigation was carried out to quantify the impact of alternate land management and fertiliser practices designed to improve offsite water quality on the productivity of vegetable rotations within a sugarcane farming system in a coastal region of subtropical northeast Australia. Successive crops of capsicum and zucchini were grown in summer 2010–2011 and winter 2011, respectively, using four different management practices. These were ‘Conventional’—the current conventional practice using plastic mulch, bare inter-rows, conventional tillage, and commercial fertiliser inputs; ‘Improved’—a modified conventional system using plastic mulch in the cropped area, an inter-row vegetative mulch, zonal tillage, and reduced fertiliser rates; ‘Trash mulch’—using cane trash or forage sorghum residues instead of plastic mulch, with reduced fertiliser rates and minimum or zero tillage; and ‘Vegetative mulch’—using Rhodes grass or forage sorghum residues instead of plastic mulch, with minimum or zero tillage and reduced fertiliser rates. During the second vegetable crop (zucchini), each management practice was split to receive either soil test-based nutrient inputs or a common, luxury rate of nutrient addition. The ’Trash mulch’ and ‘Vegetative mulch’ systems produced up to 43% lower capsicum and zucchini yields than either of the plastic mulch systems. The relative yield difference between trash systems and plastic mulch management systems remained the same for both the soil test-based and high nutrient application strategies, suggesting that factors other than nutrition (e.g., soil temperature) were driving these differences.
Illuminating the Psychological Experience of Elderly Loneliness from a Societal Perspective: A Qualitative Study of Alienation between Older People and Society
Authors: Wong Anna , Chau Anson K. C. , Fang Yang , Woo Jean
Published: July 2017

Loneliness is a common experience among older people that is associated with health risks and negative well-being. As a psychological phenomenon, it has typically been defined in Western research literature as the discrepancy between desired and actual interpersonal relations. In our qualitative study in Hong Kong, we offer insight into ageing and loneliness in an urban environment of the non-Western world and propose to reconceptualise loneliness by exploring older people’s experience of alienation at the societal level as an important but often neglected dimension of their loneliness. Thirty-seven community-dwelling, Chinese adults aged 65 and above were interviewed in focus groups and their accounts analysed and interpreted using a phenomenological approach. Findings revealed that focus group participants perceived insufficient care for older people, a growing distance between themselves and society, and their disintegrating identity in society to be primary sources of societal alienation. In response, older people adopted a more passive lifestyle, attributed marginalisation and inequality to old age, and developed negative feelings including unease towards ageing, vulnerability and helplessness, and anger. The emergence of these key components and underlying themes of societal alienation illuminated neglected facets of the psychological phenomenon of loneliness and highlighted new implications for policy, practice, and research from a societal perspective to address older people’s loneliness in urban settings.
Evaluating the Evacuation and Rescue Capabilities of Urban Open Space from a Land Use Perspective: A Case Study in Wuhan, China
Authors: Gong Jie , Liu Yaolin , Liu Yanfang , Huang Pujiang , Li Jiwei
Published: July 2017

This study proposes an innovative integrated method for evaluating the evacuation and rescue capabilities of open spaces through a case study in Wuhan, China. A dual-scenario network analysis model was set up to calculate travel time among communities, open spaces, and rescue facilities during peak and non-peak hours. The distribution of traffic flow was derived on the basis of a gravity model and used to construct supply-demand indexes (SDIs). SDIs such as evacuation (ESDI), rescue (RSDI), and comprehensive SDIs (CSDI) were used to evaluate the suitability of open space locations. This study drew five major findings as follows: (1) ESDI, RSDI, and CSDI can effectively evaluate the spatial suitability of open spaces when these SDIs are integrated with the gravity model. (2) The quadrant distribution analysis of ESDI can be an effective method for determining the reasons for the change in values in the two traffic scenarios and for helping planners in adjusting their policies to enhance the capability of an area. (3) The impact of the different β values on SDIs can show positive, negative, and inconspicuous correlations with large, moderate, and minimal variations, respectively. (4) The analysis of the supply-demand relationship of open spaces in Wuhan indicates a spatial mismatch in comprehensive evacuation and rescue capacities. (5) Traffic congestion can be a significant impact factor on evacuation and rescue capabilities but not on comprehensive capability.
DNA Damage Tolerance by Eukaryotic DNA Polymerase and Primase PrimPol
Authors: Boldinova Elizaveta , Wanrooij Paulina , Shilkin Evgeniy , Wanrooij Sjoerd , Makarova Alena
Published: July 2017

PrimPol is a human deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) polymerase that also possesses primase activity and is involved in DNA damage tolerance, the prevention of genome instability and mitochondrial DNA maintenance. In this review, we focus on recent advances in biochemical and crystallographic studies of PrimPol, as well as in identification of new protein-protein interaction partners. Furthermore, we discuss the possible functions of PrimPol in both the nucleus and the mitochondria.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Breast Cancer
Authors: Schüler-Toprak Susanne , Treeck Oliver , Ortmann Olaf
Published: July 2017

Breast cancer is well known as a malignancy being strongly influenced by female steroids. Pregnancy is a protective factor against breast cancer. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a candidate hormone which could mediate this antitumoral effect of pregnancy. For this review article, all original research articles on the role of HCG in breast cancer were considered, which are listed in PubMed database and were written in English. The role of HCG in breast cancer seems to be a paradox. Placental heterodimeric HCG acts as a protective agent by imprinting a permanent genomic signature of the mammary gland determining a refractory condition to malignant transformation which is characterized by cellular differentiation, apoptosis and growth inhibition. On the other hand, ectopic expression of β-HCG in various cancer entities is associated with poor prognosis due to its tumor-promoting function. Placental HCG and ectopically expressed β-HCG exert opposite effects on breast tumorigenesis. Therefore, mimicking pregnancy by treatment with HCG is suggested as a strategy for breast cancer prevention, whereas targeting β-HCG expressing tumor cells seems to be an option for breast cancer therapy.
Updated Insight into the Physiological and Pathological Roles of the Retromer Complex
Authors: Abubakar Yakubu , Zheng Wenhui , Olsson Stefan , Zhou Jie
Published: July 2017

Retromer complexes mediate protein trafficking from the endosomes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) or through direct recycling to the plasma membrane. In yeast, they consist of a conserved trimer of the cargo selective complex (CSC), Vps26–Vps35–Vps29 and a dimer of sorting nexins (SNXs), Vps5–Vps17. In mammals, the CSC interacts with different kinds of SNX proteins in addition to the mammalian homologues of Vps5 and Vps17, which further diversifies retromer functions. The retromer complex plays important roles in many cellular processes including restriction of invading pathogens. In this review, we summarize some recent developments in our understanding of the physiological and pathological functions of the retromer complex.
Arginase Inhibition Reverses Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Jung Christian , Grün Katja , Betge Stefan , Pernow John , Kelm Malte , Muessig Johanna , Masyuk Maryna , Kuethe Friedhelm , Ndongson-Dongmo Bernadin , Bauer Reinhard , Lauten Alexander , Schulze P. , Berndt Alexander , Franz Marcus
Published: July 2017

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a heterogeneous disorder associated with a poor prognosis. Thus, the development of novel treatment strategies is of great interest. The enzyme arginase (Arg) is emerging as important player in PH development. The aim of the current study was to determine the expression of ArgI and ArgII as well as the effects of Arg inhibition in a rat model of PH. PH was induced in 35 Sprague–Dawley rats by monocrotaline (MCT, 60 mg/kg as single-dose). There were three experimental groups: sham-treated controls (control group, n = 11), MCT-induced PH (MCT group, n = 11) and MCT-induced PH treated with the Arg inhibitor Nω-hydroxy-nor-l-arginine (nor-NOHA; MCT/NorNoha group, n = 13). ArgI and ArgII expression was determined by immunohistochemistry and Western blot. Right ventricular systolic pressure (RVPsys) was measured and lung tissue remodeling was determined. Induction of PH resulted in an increase in RVPsys (81 ± 16 mmHg) compared to the control group (41 ± 15 mmHg, p = 0.002) accompanied by a significant elevation of histological sum-score (8.2 ± 2.4 in the MCT compared to 1.6 ± 1.6 in the control group, p < 0.001). Both, ArgI and ArgII were relevantly expressed in lung tissue and there was a significant increase in the MCT compared to the control group (p < 0.01). Arg inhibition resulted in a significant reduction of RVPsys to 52 ± 19 mmHg (p = 0.006) and histological sum-score to 5.8 ± 1.4 compared to the MCT group (p = 0.022). PH leads to increased expression of Arg. Arg inhibition leads to reduction of RVPsys and diminished lung tissue remodeling and therefore represents a potential treatment strategy in PH.
Effects of Assault Type on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Coexisting Depression and Alcohol Misuse
Authors: Bailey Kylie , Baker Amanda , McElduff Patrick , Jones Mark , Oldmeadow Christopher , Kavanagh David
Published: July 2017

Although assault exposure is common in mental health and substance misusing populations, screening for assaults in treatment settings is frequently overlooked. This secondary analysis explored the effects of past sexual (SA) and physical (PA) assault on depression, alcohol misuse, global functioning and attrition in the Depression and Alcohol Integrated and Single focussed Intervention (DAISI) project, whose participants (N = 278) received cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for their depression and/or alcohol misuse. Of the 278 DAISI participants, 220 consented to screening for past assault (either by a stranger or non-stranger) at baseline. Depression, alcohol, and global functioning assessments were administered at baseline and 3, 12, 24, and 36 months post baseline. A between-group analysis was used to assess differences between SA and No SA, and PA and No PA groupings, on adjusted mean treatment outcomes across all assessment periods. SA and PA participants had similar mean symptom reductions compared to No SA and No PA participants except for lower depression and global functioning change scores at the 12-month follow-up. People with coexisting depression and alcohol misuse reporting SA or PA can respond well to CBT for depression and alcohol misuse. However, follow-up is recommended in order to monitor fluctuations in outcomes.
The Role of Th17 Cells in the Pathogenesis of Behcet’s Disease
Authors: Nanke Yuki , Yago Toru , Kotake Shigeru
Published: July 2017

Behcet’s disease (BD) is a polysymptomatic and recurrent systemic vasculitis with a chronic course and unknown cause. The pathogenesis of BD has not been fully elucidated; however, BD has been considered to be a typical Th1-mediated inflammatory disease, characterized by elevated levels of Th1 cytokines such as IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α. Recently, some studies reported that Th17-associated cytokines were increased in BD; thus, Th17 cells and the IL17/IL23 pathway may play important roles in the pathogenesis of BD. In this chapter, we focus on the pathogenic role of Th17 cells in BD.
A Review of Smart House Analysis Methods for Assisting Older People Living Alone
Authors: Sanchez Veralia , Pfeiffer Carlos , Skeie Nils-Olav
Published: July 2017

Smart Houses are a prominent field of research referring to environments adapted to assist people in their everyday life. Older people and people with disabilities would benefit the most from the use of Smart Houses because they provide the opportunity for them to stay in their home for as long as possible. In this review, the developments achieved in the field of Smart Houses for the last 16 years are described. The concept of Smart Houses, the most used analysis methods, and current challenges in Smart Houses are presented. A brief introduction of the analysis methods is given, and their implementation is also reported.
Investigation of the Quasi-Brittle Failure of Alashan Granite Viewed from Laboratory Experiments and Grain-Based Discrete Element Modeling
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhang Luqing , Yang Duoxing , Braun Anika , Han Zhenhua
Published: July 2017

Granite is a typical crystalline material, often used as a building material, but also a candidate host rock for the repository of high-level radioactive waste. The petrographic texture—including mineral constituents, grain shape, size, and distribution—controls the fracture initiation, propagation, and coalescence within granitic rocks. In this paper, experimental laboratory tests and numerical simulations of a grain-based approach in two-dimensional Particle Flow Code (PFC2D) were conducted on the mechanical strength and failure behavior of Alashan granite, in which the grain-like structure of granitic rock was considered. The microparameters for simulating Alashan granite were calibrated based on real laboratory strength values and strain-stress curves. The unconfined uniaxial compressive test and Brazilian indirect tensile test were performed using a grain-based approach to examine and discuss the influence of mineral grain size and distribution on the strength and patterns of microcracks in granitic rocks. The results show it is possible to reproduce the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and uniaxial tensile strength (UTS) of Alashan granite using the grain-based approach in PFC2D, and the average mineral size has a positive relationship with the UCS and UTS. During the modeling, most of the generated microcracks were tensile cracks. Moreover, the ratio of the different types of generated microcracks is related to the average grain size. When the average grain size in numerical models is increased, the ratio of the number of intragrain tensile cracks to the number of intergrain tensile cracks increases, and the UCS of rock samples also increases with this ratio. However, the variation in grain size distribution does not have a significant influence on the likelihood of generated microcracks.
Surface Plasmon Resonance or Biocompatibility—Key Properties for Determining the Applicability of Noble Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Craciun Ana Maria , Focsan Monica , Magyari Klara , Vulpoi Adriana , Pap Zsolt
Published: July 2017

Metal and in particular noble metal nanoparticles represent a very special class of materials which can be applied as prepared or as composite materials. In most of the cases, two main properties are exploited in a vast number of publications: biocompatibility and surface plasmon resonance (SPR). For instance, these two important properties are exploitable in plasmonic diagnostics, bioactive glasses/glass ceramics and catalysis. The most frequently applied noble metal nanoparticle that is universally applicable in all the previously mentioned research areas is gold, although in the case of bioactive glasses/glass ceramics, silver and copper nanoparticles are more frequently applied. The composite partners/supports/matrix/scaffolds for these nanoparticles can vary depending on the chosen application (biopolymers, semiconductor-based composites: TiO2, WO3, Bi2WO6, biomaterials: SiO2 or P2O5-based glasses and glass ceramics, polymers: polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), Gelatin, polyethylene glycol (PEG), polylactic acid (PLA), etc.). The scientific works on these materials’ applicability and the development of new approaches will be targeted in the present review, focusing in several cases on the functioning mechanism and on the role of the noble metal.
Effects of Annealing Conditions on Mixed Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells and Their Thermal Stability Investigation
Authors: Yang Haifeng , Zhang Jincheng , Zhang Chunfu , Chang Jingjing , Lin Zhenhua , Chen Dazheng , Xi He , Hao Yue
Published: July 2017

In this work, efficient mixed organic cation and mixed halide (MA0.7FA0.3Pb(I0.9Br0.1)3) perovskite solar cells are demonstrated by optimizing annealing conditions. AFM, XRD and PL measurements show that there is a better perovskite film quality for the annealing condition at 100 °C for 30 min. The corresponding device exhibits an optimized PCE of 16.76% with VOC of 1.02 V, JSC of 21.55 mA/cm2 and FF of 76.27%. More importantly, the mixed lead halide perovskite MA0.7FA0.3Pb(I0.9Br0.1)3 can significantly increase the thermal stability of perovskite film. After being heated at 80 °C for 24 h, the PCE of the MA0.7FA0.3Pb(I0.9Br0.1)3 device still remains at 70.00% of its initial value, which is much better than the control MAPbI3 device, where only 46.50% of its initial value could be preserved. We also successfully fabricated high-performance flexible mixed lead halide perovskite solar cells based on PEN substrates.
Synthesis of Bioactive Chlorogenic Acid-Silica Hybrid Materials via the Sol–Gel Route and Evaluation of Their Biocompatibility
Authors: Catauro Michelina , Pacifico Severina
Published: July 2017

Natural phenol compounds are gaining a great deal of attention because of their potential use as prophylactic and therapeutic agents in many diseases, as well as in applied science for their preventing role in oxidation deterioration. With the aim to synthetize new phenol-based materials, the sol–gel method was used to embed different content of the phenolic antioxidant chlorogenic acid (CGA) within silica matrices to obtain organic-inorganic hybrid materials. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) measurements were used to characterize the prepared materials. The new materials were screened for their bioactivity and antioxidant potential. To this latter purpose, direct DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazolin-6-sulfonic acid) methods were applied: radical scavenging capability appeared strongly dependent on the phenol amount in investigated hybrids, and became pronounced, mainly toward the ABTS radical cation, when materials with CGA content equal to 15 wt% and 20 wt% were analyzed. The in vitro biocompatibility of the synthetized materials was estimated by using the MTT assay towards fibroblast NIH 3T3 cells, human keratinocyte HaCaT cells, and the neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell line. As cell viability and morphology of tested cell lines seemed to be unaffected by new materials, the attenuated total reflectance (ATR)-FTIR method was applied to deeply measure the effects of the hybrids in the three different cell lines.
Karman Vortex Creation Using Cylinder for Flutter Energy Harvester Device
Authors: Atrah Ahmed , Ab-Rahman Mohd , Salleh Hanim , Nuawi Mohd , Mohd Nor Mohd , Jamaludin Nordin
Published: July 2017

This study presents the creation of a Karman vortex for a fluttering electromagnetic energy harvester device using a cylinder. The effects of two parameters, which are the diameter and the position of the cylinder, were investigated on the Karman vortex profile and the amplitude of the fluttering belt, respectively. A simulation was conducted to determine the effect of the creation of the Karman vortex, and an experiment was performed to identify influence of the position of the cylinder on the fluttering belt amplitude. The results demonstrated that vortex-induced vibration occurred at the frequency of the first natural mode for the belt at 3 cm and 10 cm for the diameter and position of the cylinder, respectively. Under such configuration, an electromagnetic energy harvester was attached and vibrated via the fluttering belt inside the turbulent boundary layers. This vibration provides a measured output voltage and can be used in wireless sensors.
Application of Ammonium Persulfate for Selective Oxidation of Guanines for Nucleic Acid Sequencing
Authors: Wang Yafen , Liu Chaoxing , Hong Tingting , Wu Fan , Yu Shuyi , He Zhiyong , Mao Wuxiang , Zhou Xiang
Published: July 2017

Nucleic acids can be sequenced by a chemical procedure that partially damages the nucleotide positions at their base repetition. Many methods have been reported for the selective recognition of guanine. The accurate identification of guanine in both single and double regions of DNA and RNA remains a challenging task. Herein, we present a new, non-toxic and simple method for the selective recognition of guanine in both DNA and RNA sequences via ammonium persulfate modification. This strategy can be further successfully applied to the detection of 5-methylcytosine by using PCR.
Spectrum Effect Relationship and Component Knock-Out in Angelica Dahurica Radix by High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Q Exactive Hybrid Quadrupole-Orbitrap Mass Spectrometer
Authors: Wang Jinmei , Peng Linna , Shi Mengjun , Li Changqin , Zhang Yan , Kang Wenyi
Published: July 2017

Different extracts of Angelica dahuricae were available for whitening or treating vitiligo clinically. They showed inhibitory or activating effects on tyrosinase, a rate-limiting enzyme of melanogenesis. This study aimed to identify active compounds on tyrosinase in water extract of Angelica dahurica Radix. We applied spectrum-effect relationship and component knock-out methods to make it clear. HPLC was used to obtain the specific chromatograms. The effects on tyrosinase activity were examined by measuring the oxidation rate of levodopa in vitro. Partial least squares method was used to examine the spectrum-effect relationships. The knocked-out samples were prepared by HPLC method, and the identification of knocked-out compounds was conducted by the high performance liquid chromatography-four stage rod-electrostatic field orbit trap high resolution mass spectrometry. Results showed that S6, S14, S18, S21, S35, S36, S37, S40, and S41 were positively correlated to inhibitory activity of Angelica dahuricae on tyrosinase whereas S9, S11, S8, S12, S22, and S30 were negatively correlated. When the concentration of each sample was 1 g·mL−1, equal to the amount of raw medicinal herbs, oxypeucedanin hydrate, imperatorin, cnidilin, and isoimperatorin had inhibitory effects on tyrosinase activity whereas byakangelicin and bergapten had activating effects.
Diarylethenes Display In Vitro Anti-TB Activity and Are Efficient Hits Targeting the Mycobacterium tuberculosis HU Protein
Authors: Suarez María , Valencia Jhesua , Cadena Christian , Maiti Raktim , Datta Chandreyee , Puerto Gloria , Isaza José , San Juan Homero , Nagaraja Valakunja , Guzman Juan
Published: July 2017

Tuberculosis continues to be a great source of concern in global health because of the large reservoir of humans infected with the bacilli and the appearance of clinical isolates resistant to a wide array of anti-tuberculosis drugs. New drugs with novel mechanisms of action on new targets are urgently required to reduce global tuberculosis burden. Mycobacterium tuberculosis nucleoid associated protein (NAP) HU has been shown to be druggable and essential for the organism’s survival. In this study, four diarylethenes were synthesized using a one-pot decarboxylated Heck-coupling of coumaric acids with iodoanisoles. The prepared compounds 1–4 were tested for their in vitro growth inhibition of M. tuberculosis H37Rv using the spot culture growth inhibition assay, displaying minimum inhibitory concentrations between 9 and 22 µM. Their cytotoxicity against BHK-21 cell line showed half inhibition at concentrations between 98 and 729 µM. The most selective hit (SI = 81), demonstrated inhibition of M. tuberculosis HU protein involved in maintaining bacterial genome architecture.
Estimated Nutritive Value of Low-Price Model Lunch Sets Provided to Garment Workers in Cambodia
Authors: Makurat Jan , Pillai Aarati , Wieringa Frank , Chamnan Chhoun , Krawinkel Michael
Published: July 2017

Background: The establishment of staff canteens is expected to improve the nutritional situation of Cambodian garment workers. The objective of this study is to assess the nutritive value of low-price model lunch sets provided at a garment factory in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Methods: Exemplary lunch sets were served to female workers through a temporary canteen at a garment factory in Phnom Penh. Dish samples were collected repeatedly to examine mean serving sizes of individual ingredients. Food composition tables and NutriSurvey software were used to assess mean amounts and contributions to recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) or adequate intake of energy, macronutrients, dietary fiber, vitamin C (VitC), iron, vitamin A (VitA), folate and vitamin B12 (VitB12). Results: On average, lunch sets provided roughly one third of RDA or adequate intake of energy, carbohydrates, fat and dietary fiber. Contribution to RDA of protein was high (46% RDA). The sets contained a high mean share of VitC (159% RDA), VitA (66% RDA), and folate (44% RDA), but were low in VitB12 (29% RDA) and iron (20% RDA). Conclusions: Overall, lunches satisfied recommendations of caloric content and macronutrient composition. Sets on average contained a beneficial amount of VitC, VitA and folate. Adjustments are needed for a higher iron content. Alternative iron-rich foods are expected to be better suited, compared to increasing portions of costly meat/fish components. Lunch provision at Cambodian garment factories holds the potential to improve food security of workers, approximately at costs of <1 USD/person/day at large scale. Data on quantitative total dietary intake as well as physical activity among workers are needed to further optimize the concept of staff canteens.
Can Early Omega-3 Fatty Acid Exposure Reduce Risk of Childhood Allergic Disease?
Authors: Miles Elizabeth , Calder Philip
Published: July 2017

A causal link between increased intake of omega-6 (n-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and increased incidence of allergic disease has been suggested. This is supported by biologically plausible mechanisms, related to the roles of eicosanoid mediators produced from the n-6 PUFA arachidonic acid. Fish and fish oils are sources of long chain omega-3 (n-3) PUFAs. These fatty acids act to oppose the actions of n-6 PUFAs particularly with regard to eicosanoid synthesis. Thus, n-3 PUFAs may protect against allergic sensitisation and allergic manifestations. Epidemiological studies investigating the association between maternal fish intake during pregnancy and allergic outcomes in infants/children of those pregnancies suggest protective associations, but the findings are inconsistent. Fish oil provision to pregnant women is associated with immunologic changes in cord blood. Studies performed to date indicate that provision of fish oil during pregnancy may reduce sensitisation to common food allergens and reduce prevalence and severity of atopic eczema in the first year of life, with a possible persistence until adolescence. A recent study reported that fish oil consumption in pregnancy reduces persistent wheeze and asthma in the offspring at ages 3 to 5 years. Eating oily fish or fish oil supplementation in pregnancy may be a strategy to prevent infant and childhood allergic disease.
Gas Barrier, Thermal, Mechanical and Rheological Properties of Highly Aligned Graphene-LDPE Nanocomposites
Authors: Gaska Karolina , Kádár Roland , Rybak Andrzej , Siwek Artur , Gubanski Stanislaw
Published: July 2017

This contribution reports on properties of low-density polyethylene-based composites filled with different amounts of graphene nanoplatelets. The studied samples were prepared in the form of films by means of the precoating technique and single screw melt-extrusion, which yields a highly ordered arrangement of graphene flakes and results in a strong anisotropy of composites morphology. The performed tests of gas permeability reveal a drastic decrease of this property with increasing filler content. A clear correlation is found between permeability and free volume fraction in the material, the latter evaluated by means of positron annihilation spectroscopy. A strong anisotropy of the thermal conductivity is also achieved and the thermal conductivity along the extrusion direction for samples filled with 7.5 wt % of GnP (graphene nanoplatelets) reached 2.2 W/m·K. At the same time, when measured through a plane, a slight decrease of thermal conductivity is found. The use of GnP filler leads also to improvements of mechanical properties. The increase of Young’s modulus and tensile strength are reached as the composites become more brittle.
Additives Type Schiff’s Base as Modifiers of the Optical Response in Holographic Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystals
Authors: Fenoll Sandra , Navarro-Fuster Víctor , Ortuño Manuel , Serrano Jose Luis , Márquez Andrés , Gallego Sergi , Pascual Inmaculada , Beléndez Augusto
Published: July 2017

Schiff’s bases with specific π-electron system have been synthesized and used as additives in holographic polymer-dispersed liquid crystals. It was observed that these substances modify different parameters such as current intensity, voltage, and diffracted light intensity. In addition, the maximum diffraction efficiency obtained in the reconstruction of the holograms is related to the additive molecule. We propose a relationship between this behavior and the molecular structure of these substances.
Households’ Willingness-to-Pay for Fish Product Attributes and Implications for Market Feasibility of Wastewater-Based Aquaculture Businesses in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: Danso George , Otoo Miriam , Linh Nguyen , Madurangi Ganesha
Published: July 2017

A choice experiment was used to assess households’ willingness-to-pay (WTP) for informational attributes (sources of water used to rear fish, and certification) of fish products in Hanoi, Vietnam. The study showed that households’ purchasing decisions are influenced by their access to information of food product attributes and ascribe an economic value to it. The results indicated that households are willing to pay 51% (USD 1.11 per kg) above the prevailing market price of fish for information to know if wastewater is used to rear the fish they consume. Similarly, they are willing to pay 20% above the prevailing market price of fish (USD 0.43 per kg) to know if freshwater is used as a rearing medium. It is important to note that the increased marginal WTP is for information on whether the fish they consume is raised in wastewater over freshwater. This supports the notion of households’ concern over the safety of consuming wastewater-raised fish. Households are also willing to pay 65% (USD 1.42 per kg) above the prevailing market price for certified fish. Based on the cost of fish certification and WTP estimates, we found a total economic benefit of USD 172 million for the implementation of a wastewater-raised fish business model in Hanoi. The demand for wastewater-raised fish is likely to be affected by households’ perception of certification by a trusted government agency, source of water used to raise the fish, age, income and household size.
Market Feasibility of Faecal Sludge and Municipal Solid Waste-Based Compost as Measured by Farmers’ Willingness-to-Pay for Product Attributes: Evidence from Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Danso George , Otoo Miriam , Ekere William , Ddungu Stanley , Madurangi Ganesha
Published: July 2017

There is a great potential to close the nutrient recycling loop, support a ‘circular economy’ and improve cost recovery within the waste sector and to create viable businesses via the conversion of waste to organic fertilizers. Successful commercialization of waste-based organic fertilizer businesses however largely depends on a sound market. We used a choice experiment to estimate farmers’ willingness-to-pay (WTP) for faecal sludge and municipal solid waste-based (FSM) compost in Kampala, Uganda and considered three attributes—fortification, pelletization and certification. Our results reveal that farmers are willing to pay for FSM compost and place a higher value on a ‘certified’ compost product. They are willing to pay US $0.4 per kg above the current market price for a similar certified product, which is 67 times higher than the cost of providing the attribute. Farmers are willing to pay US $0.127 per kg for ‘pelletized’ FSM compost, which is lower (0.57 times) than the cost of providing the attribute. On the other hand, farmers require US $0.089 per kg as a compensation to use ‘fortified’ FSM compost. We suggest that future FSM compost businesses focus on a ‘certified and pelletized’ FSM product as this product type has the highest production cost–WTP differential and for which future businesses can capture the highest percentage of the consumer surplus. The demand for FSM compost indicates the benefits that can accrue to farmers, businesses and the environment from the recycling of organic waste for agriculture.
Interference Effects Redress over Power-Efficient Wireless-Friendly Mesh Networks for Ubiquitous Sensor Communications across Smart Cities
Authors: Santana Jose , Marrero Domingo , Macías Elsa , Mena Vicente , Suárez Álvaro
Published: July 2017

Ubiquitous sensing allows smart cities to take control of many parameters (e.g., road traffic, air or noise pollution levels, etc.). An inexpensive Wireless Mesh Network can be used as an efficient way to transport sensed data. When that mesh is autonomously powered (e.g., solar powered), it constitutes an ideal portable network system which can be deployed when needed. Nevertheless, its power consumption must be restrained to extend its operational cycle and for preserving the environment. To this end, our strategy fosters wireless interface deactivation among nodes which do not participate in any route. As we show, this contributes to a significant power saving for the mesh. Furthermore, our strategy is wireless-friendly, meaning that it gives priority to deactivation of nodes receiving (and also causing) interferences from (to) the rest of the smart city. We also show that a routing protocol can adapt to this strategy in which certain nodes deactivate their own wireless interfaces.
Selectively Enhanced UV-A Photoresponsivity of a GaN MSM UV Photodetector with a Step-Graded AlxGa1−xN Buffer Layer
Authors: Lee Chang-Ju , Won Chul-Ho , Lee Jung-Hee , Hahm Sung-Ho , Park Hongsik
Published: July 2017

The UV-to-visible rejection ratio is one of the important figure of merits of GaN-based UV photodetectors. For cost-effectiveness and large-scale fabrication of GaN devices, we tried to grow a GaN epitaxial layer on silicon substrate with complicated buffer layers for a stress-release. It is known that the structure of the buffer layers affects the performance of devices fabricated on the GaN epitaxial layers. In this study, we show that the design of a buffer layer structure can make effect on the UV-to-visible rejection ratio of GaN UV photodetectors. The GaN photodetector fabricated on GaN-on-silicon substrate with a step-graded AlxGa−xN buffer layer has a highly-selective photoresponse at 365-nm wavelength. The UV-to-visible rejection ratio of the GaN UV photodetector with the step-graded AlxGa1−xN buffer layer was an order-of-magnitude higher than that of a photodetector with a conventional GaN/AlN multi buffer layer. The maximum photoresponsivity was as high as 5 × 10−2 A/W. This result implies that the design of buffer layer is important for photoresponse characteristics of GaN UV photodetectors as well as the crystal quality of the GaN epitaxial layers.
Noncontact Sleep Study by Multi-Modal Sensor Fusion
Authors: Chung Ku-young , Song Kwangsub , Shin Kangsoo , Sohn Jinho , Cho Seok , Chang Joon-Hyuk
Published: July 2017

Polysomnography (PSG) is considered as the gold standard for determining sleep stages, but due to the obtrusiveness of its sensor attachments, sleep stage classification algorithms using noninvasive sensors have been developed throughout the years. However, the previous studies have not yet been proven reliable. In addition, most of the products are designed for healthy customers rather than for patients with sleep disorder. We present a novel approach to classify sleep stages via low cost and noncontact multi-modal sensor fusion, which extracts sleep-related vital signals from radar signals and a sound-based context-awareness technique. This work is uniquely designed based on the PSG data of sleep disorder patients, which were received and certified by professionals at Hanyang University Hospital. The proposed algorithm further incorporates medical/statistical knowledge to determine personal-adjusted thresholds and devise post-processing. The efficiency of the proposed algorithm is highlighted by contrasting sleep stage classification performance between single sensor and sensor-fusion algorithms. To validate the possibility of commercializing this work, the classification results of this algorithm were compared with the commercialized sleep monitoring device, ResMed S+. The proposed algorithm was investigated with random patients following PSG examination, and results show a promising novel approach for determining sleep stages in a low cost and unobtrusive manner.