bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of Profitability in the Banking Sector: An Analysis of Post-Soviet Countries
Authors: Yüksel Serhat , Mukhtarov Shahriyar , Mammadov Elvin , Özsarı Mustafa
Published: July 2018

The purpose of this paper is to identify the determinants of bank profitability in 13 post-Soviet countries. Within this scope, annual data between 1996 and 2016 is analyzed by using fixed effects panel regression and the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM). It is concluded that loan amount, non-interest income and economic growth are significant indicators of profitability. Moreover, the 2008 global mortgage crisis has a negative influence on bank profitability in post-Soviet countries. According to the estimation results, there is a positive relationship between non-interest income and economic growth with profitability. This result shows that when non-interest income of the banks increases, such as credit card fees and commission, it affects the financial performance of the banks, positively, and contributes to bank profitability. Another result of this study is that economic growth positively influences bank profitability. This result allows us to conclude that higher GDP comes with higher bank profitability for post-Soviet countries. Lastly, there is a negative relationship between loan-to-GDP ratio and profitability of the banks in post-Soviet countries. This means that when the ratio of total loans to GDP increases, it affects financial performance of the banks in a negative way. While considering this result, it is recommended that banks in post-Soviet countries should focus on ways to increase their non-interest income. Additionally, it is also significant for these banks to be careful and risk averse when lending to their customers.
Development of Novel and Ultra-High-Performance Supercapacitor Based on a Four Layered Unique Structure
Authors: Himanshu  , Rao S. Srinivasa , Punnoose Dinah , Sathishkumar P. , Gopi Chandu V. V. Muralee , Bandari Naresh , Durga Ikkurthi Kanaka , Krishna T. N. V. , Kim Hee-Je
Published: July 2018

This paper presents an electrode with a core/shell geometry and a unique four-layered porous wrinkled surface for pseudocapacitive supercapacitor applications. To design the electrode, Ni foam was used as a substrate, where the harmonious features of four constituents, ZnO (Z), NiS (N), PEDOT:PSS (P), and MnO2 (M) improved the supercapacitor electrochemical performance by mitigating the drawbacks of each other component. Cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge discharge measurements confirmed that the ZNPM hybrid electrode exhibited excellent capacitive properties in 2 M KOH compared to the ZNP, ZN, and solely Z electrodes. The ZNPM electrode showed superior electrochemical capacitive performance and improved electrical conductivity with a high specific capacitance of 2072.52 F g−1 at 5 mA, and a high energy density of 31 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 107 W kg−1. Overall, ZNPM is a promising combination electrode material that can be used in supercapacitors and other electrochemical energy conversion/storage devices.
Accurate Synchronization of Digital and Analog Chaotic Systems by Parameters Re-Identification
Authors: Karimov Timur , Butusov Denis , Andreev Valery , Karimov Artur , Tutueva Aleksandra
Published: July 2018

The verification of the digital models of chaotic systems and processes is a valuable problem in many practical applications, such as nonlinear control and communications. In our study, we propose a hybrid technique for chaotic systems’ identification, based on the chaotic synchronization of digital and analog counterparts and a numerical optimization method used for the fine tuning of parameters. An analog circuit implementing the Rössler oscillator with digitally controlled parameters was chosen as an identification object, and the FPGA model was used as a digital counterpart for coupling and parameter retrieval. The synchronization between analog and digital chaotic models can be used to estimate the quality of an identification procedure. The results of this study clarify the practical bounds of digital and analog systems’ equivalence. They also contribute to the problem of designing technical systems possessing advantages of both analog and digital chaotic generators (e.g., a high accuracy and protection from quasi-chaotic oscillation modes).
A Stochastic Model Predictive Control Approach for Joint Operational Scheduling and Hourly Reconfiguration of Distribution Systems
Authors: Esmaeili Saeid , Anvari-Moghaddam Amjad , Jadid Shahram , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: July 2018

Due to the recent developments in the practical implementation of remotely controlled switches (RCSs) in the smart distribution system infrastructure, distribution system operators face operational challenges in the hourly reconfigurable environment. This paper develops a stochastic Model Predictive Control (MPC) framework for operational scheduling of distribution systems with dynamic and adaptive hourly reconfiguration. The effect of coordinated integration of energy storage systems and demand response programs through hourly reconfiguration on the total costs (including cost of total loss, switching cost, cost of bilateral contract with power generation owners and responsive loads, and cost of exchanging power with the wholesale market) is investigated. A novel Switching Index (SI) based on the RCS ages and critical points in the network along with the maximum number of switching actions is introduced. Due to nonlinear nature of the problem and several existing binary variables, it is basically considered as a Mixed Integer Non-Linear Programming (MINLP) problem, which is transformed into a Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) problem. The satisfactory performance of the proposed model is demonstrated through its application on a modified IEEE 33-bus distribution system.
The Feasibility of Improving the Accuracy of In Situ Measurements in the Air-Surface Temperature Ratio Method
Authors: Kim Seo-Hoon , Lee Jung-Hun , Kim Jong-Hun , Yoo Seung-Hwan , Jeong Hak-Geun
Published: July 2018

This paper reports on a feasibility study conducted to improve the in situ measurement accuracy of the air-surface temperature ratio (ASTR) method. The measured relative error rate was analyzed using the ISO 6946 [7.69 W/(m2·K)] and Korea Energy Saving Design Standard [9.09 W/(m2·K)] indoor total surface heat transfer coefficients. The relative error rate was analyzed according to fluctuations in outdoor temperature data. The relative error rate obtained using the ISO 6946 standard was analyzed about 6.3% and that obtained using the Korea Energy Saving Design Standard was about 9.5%. The relative error rate measured for outdoor temperature fluctuations of less than 1 K was about 4.62% and that for temperatures greater than 1 K was about 14.31%. The study results confirmed the cause of the error in the measurement of the ASTR. It was also found that the accuracy of the latter can be improved when the ISO 6946 indoor total surface heat transfer coefficient is applied and when outdoor temperature fluctuations less than 1 K are sampled and analyzed.
A Harmonic Voltage Injection Based DC-Link Imbalance Compensation Technique for Single-Phase Three-Level Neutral-Point-Clamped (NPC) Inverters
Authors: Kang Kyoung-Pil , Cho Younghoon , Ryu Myung-Hyo , Baek Ju-Won
Published: July 2018

In three-level neutral-point-clamped (NPC) inverters, the voltage imbalance problem between the upper and lower dc-link capacitors is one of the major concerns. This paper proposed a dc-link capacitor voltage balancing method where a common offset voltage was injected. The offset voltage consists of harmonic components and a voltage difference between the upper and the lower capacitors. Here, both the second-order harmonics and the half-wave of the second-order component were injected to compensate for the unbalanced voltage between the capacitors. In order to show the effectiveness of the proposed voltage injection, the theoretical analyses, simulations, and experimental results are provided. Since the proposed method does not require any hardware modifications, it can be easily adapted. Both the simulations and the experiments validated that the voltage difference of the dc-link could be effectively reduced with the proposed method.
Control Scheme and Power Electronics Architecture for a Wirelessly Distributed and Enabled Battery Energy Storage System
Authors: Abu Qahouq Jaber , Cao Yuan
Published: July 2018

This paper presents and evaluates a control scheme and a power electronics architecture for a Wirelessly Enabled and Distributed Battery Energy Storage (WEDES) system. It includes several independent battery modules (WEDES-MX modules) that transfer both power and information wirelessly to an On-Board Unit (OBU). Using wirelessly communicated State-Of-Charge (SOC) information from the WEDES-MX modules, the OBU part of the WEDES controller generates control commands and send them back to the WEDES-MX modules in order to control the amount of power/energy drawn from each WEDES-MX module and achieve SOC balancing. The presented controller also allows the WEDES system to maintain operation with a regulated bus voltage even if one or more WEDES-MX modules are removed or fail and under both balanced and unbalanced SOC conditions. The WEDES system with the presented WEDES controller when utilized in Electric Vehicle (EV) application, can allow for fast and safe exchange/swapping of WEDES-MX modules at an exchange station, home, or work and therefore potentially eliminating the range (mileage) anxiety issue that is associated with EVs’ range and the needed recharging time. The main objective of this paper is to present and evaluate the WEDES discharging controller for the WEDES system and present preliminary proof-of-concept scaled-down experimental prototype results.
Practical Analysis and Design of a Battery Management System for a Grid-Connected DC Microgrid for the Reduction of the Tariff Cost and Battery Life Maximization
Authors: Salas-Puente Robert , Marzal Silvia , Gonzalez-Medina Raul , Figueres Emilio , Garcera Gabriel
Published: July 2018

This study is focused on two areas: the design of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) for a grid-connected DC Microgrid and the power management of that microgrid. The power management is performed by a Microgrid Central Controller (MGCC). A Microgrid operator provides daily information to the MGCC about the photovoltaic generation profile, the load demand profile, and the real-time prices of the electricity in order to plan the power interchange between the BESS and the main grid, establishing the desired state of charge (SOC) of the batteries at any time. The main goals of the power management strategy under study are to minimize the cost of the electricity that is imported from the grid and to maximize battery life by means of an adequate charging procedure, which sets the charging rate as a function of the MG state. Experimental and simulation results in many realistic scenarios demonstrate that the proposed methodology achieves a proper power management of the DC microgrid.
Distributed Energy Sharing for PVT-HP Prosumers in Community Energy Internet: A Consensus Approach
Authors: Liu Nian , Guo Bin , Liu Zifa , Wang Yongli
Published: July 2018

Community Energy Internet (CEI) integrates electric network and thermal network based on combined heat and power (CHP) to improve the economy of energy system in Smart Community. In the CEI, an energy sharing framework for prosumers equipped with photovoltaic-thermal (PVT) system and heat pump (HP) is introduced. Supporting by the PVT and HP, the prosumer has four role attributes with either heat or electricity producer/consumer. A social welfare maximization model is built for the CEI, including PVT-HP prosumers, CHP system, and utility grid. Considering there are multiply participants in the local market of CEI, the social welfare maximization problem is decoupled by using Lagrange multiplier method. Moreover, a consensus-based fully distributed algorithm is designed to solve the problem. Finally, six residential buildings are selected as the case study to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Hydrogen-Cycling during Solventogenesis in Clostridium acetobutylicum American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) 824 Requires the [NiFe]-Hydrogenase for Energy Conservation
Authors: Germane Katherine L. , Liu Sanchao , Gerlach Elliot S. , Savage Alice M. , Renberg Rebecca L. , Zu Theresah N. K. , Dong Hong , Walck Scott D. , Servinsky Matthew D. , Sund Christian J.
Published: July 2018

Clostridium acetobutylicum has traditionally been used for production of acetone, butanol, and ethanol (ABE). Butanol is a commodity chemical due in part to its suitability as a biofuel; however, the current yield of this product from biological systems is not economically feasible as an alternative fuel source. Understanding solvent phase physiology, solvent tolerance, and their genetic underpinning is key for future strain optimization of the bacterium. This study shows the importance of a [NiFe]-hydrogenase in solvent phase physiology. C. acetobutylicum genes ca_c0810 and ca_c0811, annotated as a HypF and HypD maturation factor, were found to be required for [NiFe]-hydrogenase activity. They were shown to be part of a polycistronic operon with other hyp genes. Hydrogenase activity assays of the ΔhypF/hypD mutant showed an almost complete inactivation of the [NiFe]-hydrogenase. Metabolic studies comparing ΔhypF/hypD and wild type (WT) strains in planktonic and sessile conditions indicated the hydrogenase was important for solvent phase metabolism. For the mutant, reabsorption of acetate and butyrate was inhibited during solventogenesis in planktonic cultures, and less ABE was produced. During sessile growth, the ΔhypF/hypD mutant had higher initial acetone: butanol ratios, which is consistent with the inability to obtain reduced cofactors via H2 uptake. In sessile conditions, the ΔhypF/hypD mutant was inhibited in early solventogenesis, but it appeared to remodel its metabolism and produced mainly butanol in late solventogenesis without the uptake of acids. Energy filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) mapped Pd(II) reduction via [NiFe]-hydrogenase induced H2 oxidation at the extracelluar side of the membrane on WT cells. A decrease of Pd(0) deposits on ΔhypF/hypD comparatively to WT indicates that the [NiFe]-hydrogenase contributed to the Pd(II) reduction. Calculations of reaction potentials during acidogenesis and solventogenesis predict the [NiFe]-hydrogenase can couple NAD+ reduction with membrane transport of electrons. Extracellular oxidation of H2 combined with the potential for electron transport across the membrane indicate that the [NiFe}-hydrogenase contributes to proton motive force maintenance via hydrogen cycling.
Lachancea thermotolerans, the Non-Saccharomyces Yeast that Reduces the Volatile Acidity of Wines
Authors: Vilela Alice
Published: July 2018

To improve the quality of fermented drinks, or more specifically, wine, some strains of yeast have been isolated, tested and studied, such as Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces. Some non-conventional yeasts present good fermentative capacities and are able to ferment in quite undesirable conditions, such as the case of must, or wines that have a high concentration of acetic acid. One of those yeasts is Lachancea thermotolerants (L. thermotolerans), which has been studied for its use in wine due to its ability to decrease pH through L-lactic acid production, giving the wines a pleasant acidity. This review focuses on the recent discovery of an interesting feature of L. thermotolerans—namely, its ability to decrease wines’ volatile acidity.
A Geochemical Overview of Mid-Archaean Metavolcanic Rocks from Southwest Greenland
Authors: Szilas Kristoffer
Published: July 2018

The present contribution reviews bulk-rock geochemical data for mid-Archaean (ca. 3075–2840 Ma) metavolcanic rocks from the North Atlantic Craton of southwest Greenland. The data set includes the most recent high quality major and trace element geochemical analyses for ten different supracrustal/greenstone belts in the region. When distilling the data set to only include the least altered metavolcanic rocks, by filtering out obviously altered samples, mafic/ultramafic cumulate rocks, late-stage intrusive sheets (dolerites) and migmatites, the remaining data (N = 427) reveal two fundamentally distinct geochemical suites. The contrasting trends that emerge from the filtered geochemical data set, which best represents the melt compositions for these mid-Archaean metavolcanic rocks are: (1) tholeiitic (mainly basaltic) versus (2) calc-alkaline (mainly andesitic). These two rock suites are effectively separated by their La/Sm ratios (below or above three, respectively). It is demonstrated by geochemical modelling that the two contrasting suites cannot be related by either fractional crystallization or crustal assimilation processes, despite occurring within the same metavolcanic sequences. The tholeiitic basaltic rocks were directly mantle-derived, whereas the petrogenesis of the calc-alkaline andesitic rocks involve a significant (>50%) felsic component. The felsic contribution in the calc-alkaline suite could either represent slab-melt metasomatism of their mantle source, mafic-felsic magma mixing, or very large degrees of partial melting of mafic lower crust. At face value, the occurrence of andesites, and the negative Nb-Ta-Ti-anomalies of both suites, is consistent with a subduction zone setting for the origin of these metavolcanic rocks. However, the latter geochemical feature is inherent to processes involving crustal partial melts, and therefore independent lines of evidence are needed to substantiate the hypothesis that plate tectonic processes were already operating by the mid-Archaean.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) in a Large, Highly Polluted Freshwater Lake, China: Occurrence, Fate, and Risk Assessment
Authors: Liu Jianchao , Lu Guanghua , Zhang Fuhai , Nkoom Matthew , Yan Zhenhua , Wu Donghai
Published: July 2018

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were extensively investigated in water, sediment, and biota samples collected from Chaohu Lake basin in China. The total concentrations of eight PBDEs (Σ8PBDEs) were in the ranges of 0.11–4.48 ng/L, 0.06–5.41 ng/g, and 0.02–1.50 ng/g dry weight (dw) in the water, sediment, and biota samples, respectively. The concentrations showed wide variations in the monitoring area, while the congener profiles in all the water, sediment, and biota samples were generally characterized by only a few compounds, such as BDE-47, BDE-99, and/or BDE-209. The spatial analysis depicted a decreasing trend of PBDEs from west to east Chaohu Lake, consistent with regional industrialization degree. The distributions of PBDE congeners in the biota samples were similar to the compositional profiles in the water, which were dominated by BDE-47 and/or BDE-99. Nevertheless, BDE-47 and BDE-153 in the brain tissue showed a higher accumulative potential than PBDEs in other tissues as well as the whole body, with 96% relative contribution of Σ8PBDEs. The noncarcinogenic risk values estimated for BDE-47, BDE-99, and BDE-153 indicated that the specific risk associated with the studied water and foodstuffs is limited. However, there is a potential mixture ecotoxicity at three trophic levels at some sampling points in the water, which should draw considerable attention.
A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study on Prenatal Levels of Adherence to the Mediterranean Diet: Maternal Profile and Effects on the Newborn
Authors: Peraita-Costa Isabel , Llopis-González Agustín , Perales-Marín Alfredo , Sanz Ferran , Llopis-Morales Agustín , Morales-Suárez-Varela María
Published: July 2018

The Mediterranean diet (MD) is a dietary pattern with important benefits. The objectives of this study were to assess the adherence to the MD among pregnant women in Valencia (Spain) and characterize the pregnant women according to their level of adherence. Finally, we aimed to examine the role of MD adherence during pregnancy in the anthropometric development of the newborn. The study included 492 pregnant women who were followed at La Fe Hospital in 2017. The self-administered “Kidmed” questionnaire for data collection on dietary information evaluation was used and a clinical history review of mothers and newborns was performed. Two groups of mothers were identified: those with low adherence (LA) and optimal adherence (OA). The study revealed that 40.2% of the women showed LA to the MD. The newborns born to these women presented a higher risk of being small for gestational age (SGA) {adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.68; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–5.46} when adjusting for parental body mass index (BMI) and multiple gestation, but not when adjusting for all significant possible confounders (aOR = 2.32; 95% CI 0.69–7.78). The association between MD and SGA was not significantly affected by the use of iron and folic acid supplements (aOR = 2.65; 95% CI 0.66–10.65). The profile of the pregnant woman with LA is that of a young smoker, with a low level of education and a low daily intake of dairy products. These results suggest that LA to the MD is not associated with a higher risk of giving birth to a SGA newborn.
Mapping the Urban Lead Exposome: A Detailed Analysis of Soil Metal Concentrations at the Household Scale Using Citizen Science
Authors: Filippelli Gabriel M. , Adamic Jessica , Nichols Deborah , Shukle John , Frix Emeline
Published: July 2018

An ambitious citizen science effort in the city of Indianapolis (IN, USA) led to the collection and analysis of a large number of samples at the property scale, facilitating the analysis of differences in soil metal concentrations as a function of property location (i.e., dripline, yard, and street) and location within the city. This effort indicated that dripline soils had substantially higher values of lead and zinc than other soil locations on a given property, and this pattern was heightened in properties nearer the urban core. Soil lead values typically exceeded the levels deemed safe for children’s play areas in the United States (<400 ppm), and almost always exceeded safe gardening guidelines (<200 ppm). As a whole, this study identified locations within properties and cities that exhibited the highest exposure risk to children, and also exhibited the power of citizen science to produce data at a spatial scale (i.e., within a property boundary), which is usually impossible to feasibly collect in a typical research study.
Lower Noise Annoyance Associated with GIS-Derived Greenspace: Pathways through Perceived Greenspace and Residential Noise
Authors: Dzhambov Angel M. , Markevych Iana , Tilov Boris , Arabadzhiev Zlatoslav , Stoyanov Drozdstoj , Gatseva Penka , Dimitrova Donka D.
Published: July 2018

Growing amounts of evidence support an association between self-reported greenspace near the home and lower noise annoyance; however, objectively defined greenspace has rarely been considered. In the present study, we tested the association between objective measures of greenspace and noise annoyance, with a focus on underpinning pathways through noise level and perceived greenspace. We sampled 720 students aged 18 to 35 years from the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Objective greenspace was defined by several Geographic Information System (GIS)-derived metrics: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), tree cover density, percentage of green space in circular buffers of 100, 300 and 500 m, and the Euclidean distance to the nearest structured green space. Perceived greenspace was defined by the mean of responses to five items asking about its quantity, accessibility, visibility, usage, and quality. We assessed noise annoyance due to transportation and other neighborhood noise sources and daytime noise level (Lday) at the residence. Tests of the parallel mediation models showed that higher NDVI and percentage of green space in all buffers were associated with lower noise annoyance, whereas for higher tree cover this association was observed only in the 100 m buffer zone. In addition, the effects of NDVI and percentage of green space were mediated by higher perceived greenspace and lower Lday. In the case of tree cover, only perceived greenspace was a mediator. Our findings suggest that the potential for greenspace to reduce noise annoyance extends beyond noise abatement. Applying a combination of GIS-derived and perceptual measures should enable researchers to better tap individuals’ experience of residential greenspace and noise.
FGF2 Dual Warhead Conjugate with Monomethyl Auristatin E and α-Amanitin Displays a Cytotoxic Effect towards Cancer Cells Overproducing FGF Receptor 1
Authors: Świderska Karolina Weronika , Szlachcic Anna , Opaliński Łukasz , Zakrzewska Małgorzata , Otlewski Jacek
Published: July 2018

In the rapidly developing field of targeted cancer therapy there is growing interest towards therapeutics combining two or more compounds to achieve synergistic action and minimize the chance of cancer resistance to treatment. We developed a fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2)-conjugate bearing two cytotoxic drugs with independent mode of action: α-amanitin and monomethyl auristatin E. Drugs are covalently attached to the targeting protein in a site-specific manner via maleimide-thiol conjugation and Cu(I)-catalyzed alkyne-azide cycloaddition. The dual warhead conjugate binds to FGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) and utilizes receptor-mediated endocytosis for selective internalization into cancer cells with FGFR1. The developed conjugate displays high cytotoxicity towards all tested FGFR1-positive cell lines. Most importantly, the improved cytotoxic effect of both drugs is observed for lung cancer cell line NCI-H446. The single drug-FGF2 conjugates have no impact on the viability of NCI-H446 cells, whereas the dual warhead-FGF2 conjugate selectively and efficiently kills these FGFR1 positive cancer cells. Due to the diversified mode of action the dual warhead-FGF2 conjugate may overcome the potential acquired resistance of FGFR1-overproducing cancer cells towards single cytotoxic drugs.
Toughness Enhancement of PHBV/TPU/Cellulose Compounds with Reactive Additives for Compostable Injected Parts in Industrial Applications
Authors: Sánchez-Safont Estefanía Lidón , Arrillaga Alex , Anakabe Jon , Cabedo Luis , Gamez-Perez Jose
Published: July 2018

Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-valerate), PHBV, is a bacterial thermoplastic biopolyester that possesses interesting thermal and mechanical properties. As it is fully biodegradable, it could be an alternative to the use of commodities in single-use applications or in those intended for composting at their end of life. Two big drawbacks of PHBV are its low impact toughness and its high cost, which limit its potential applications. In this work, we proposed the use of a PHBV-based compound with purified α-cellulose fibres and a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), with the purpose of improving the performance of PHBV in terms of balanced heat resistance, stiffness, and toughness. Three reactive agents with different functionalities have been tested in these compounds: hexametylene diisocianate (HMDI), a commercial multi-epoxy-functionalized styrene-co-glycidyl methacrylate oligomer (Joncryl® ADR-4368), and triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC). The results indicate that the reactive agents play a main role of compatibilizers among the phases of the PHBV/TPU/cellulose compounds. HMDI showed the highest ability to compatibilize the cellulose and the PHBV in the compounds, with the topmost values of deformation at break, static toughness, and impact strength. Joncryl® and TGIC, on the other hand, seemed to enhance the compatibility between the fibres and the polymer matrix as well as the TPU within the PHBV.
A Hybrid Model for Monthly Precipitation Time Series Forecasting Based on Variational Mode Decomposition with Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Li Guohui , Ma Xiao , Yang Hong
Published: July 2018

The matter of success in forecasting precipitation is of great significance to flood control and drought relief, and water resources planning and management. For the nonlinear problem in forecasting precipitation time series, a hybrid prediction model based on variational mode decomposition (VMD) coupled with extreme learning machine (ELM) is proposed to reduce the difficulty in modeling monthly precipitation forecasting and improve the prediction accuracy. The monthly precipitation data in the past 60 years from Yan’an City and Huashan Mountain, Shaanxi Province, are used as cases to test this new hybrid model. First, the nonstationary monthly precipitation time series are decomposed into several relatively stable intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) by using VMD. Then, an ELM prediction model is established for each IMF. Next, the predicted values of these components are accumulated to obtain the final prediction results. Finally, three predictive indicators are adopted to measure the prediction accuracy of the proposed hybrid model, back propagation (BP) neural network, Elman neural network (Elman), ELM, and EMD-ELM models: mean absolute error (MAE), root mean squared error (RMSE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). The experimental simulation results show that the proposed hybrid model has higher prediction accuracy and can be used to predict the monthly precipitation time series.
The Strategic Deployment of the Airbus A350-900XWB Aircraft in a Full-Service Network Carrier Route Network: The Case of Singapore Airlines
Authors: Baxter Glenn , Srisaeng Panarat
Published: July 2018

In the global airline industry, an airline’s fleet routing affects its profitability, level of service and its competitive position. Using a qualitative research approach, this paper examines Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900XWB fleet deployment and route network development for the period 2016 to 2018. The qualitative data was examined using document analysis. The study found that Singapore Airlines has deployed the Airbus A350-900XWB aircraft on new air routes from Singapore to Cape Town via Johannesburg, Düsseldorf and Stockholm via Moscow and return. The Airbus A350-900XWB aircraft are also replacing older, less efficient aircraft as part of the company’s fleet modernization strategy. Singapore Airlines is also acquiring the new ultra-long-range variant of the Airbus A350-900XWB for use on its proposed new non-stop services from Singapore to Los Angeles and Newark Liberty Airport in New Jersey, USA. The longest flight stage length is the Singapore to San Francisco route which is 7339 nautical miles (13,594 km) in length. The shortest stage length is between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur (160 nautical miles or 297 km). The new non-stop services from Singapore to Los Angeles and New York City will be the longest non-stop services operated by Singapore Airlines. The flight stage lengths between Singapore and Los Angeles and Singapore and Newark Liberty Airport are 7621 nautical miles (14,114 km) and 8285 nautical miles (15,344 km), respectively. The greatest number of available seat kilometers (ASKs) are generated on Singapore Airlines Airbus A350-900 XWB service from Singapore to San Francisco (3.57 million ASKs). The smallest number of ASKs produced are on the short-haul service from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur (75,141 ASKs).
Development of Normal and Cleft Palate: A Central Role for Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF)/CCN2
Authors: Tarr Joseph T. , Lambi Alex G. , Bradley James P. , Barbe Mary F. , Popoff Steven N.
Published: July 2018

Development of the palate is the result of an organized series of events that require exquisite spatial and temporal regulation at the cellular level. There are a myriad of growth factors, receptors and signaling pathways that have been shown to play an important role in growth, elevation and/or fusion of the palatal shelves. Altered expression or activation of a number of these factors, receptors and signaling pathways have been shown to cause cleft palate in humans or mice with varying degrees of penetrance. This review will focus on connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) or CCN2, which was recently shown to play an essential role in formation of the secondary palate. Specifically, the absence of CCN2 in KO mice results in defective cellular processes that contribute to failure of palatal shelf growth, elevation and/or fusion. CCN2 is unique in that it has been shown to interact with a number of other factors important for palate development, including bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), fibroblast growth factors (FGFs), epidermal growth factor (EGF), Wnt proteins and transforming growth factor-βs (TGF-βs), thereby influencing their ability to bind to their receptors and mediate intracellular signaling. The role that these factors play in palate development and their specific interactions with CCN2 will also be reviewed. Future studies to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action for CCN2 and its interactions with other regulatory proteins during palatogenesis are expected to provide novel information with the potential for development of new pharmacologic or genetic treatment strategies for clinical intervention of cleft palate during development.
Effects of Deformation Conditions on the Rolling Force during Variable Gauge Rolling
Authors: Shafiei Ehsan , Dehghani Kamran
Published: July 2018

In this study, effects of different deformation conditions on the rolling force were studied during variable gauge rolling processes. To this end, variations of rolling forces with rolling times were analyzed at different roll diameters, absolute thickness reductions and friction coefficients. Considering the rolling force variations, an abrupt change in the outlet section of downward and outward rolling was observed at all deformation conditions. The experimental data, along with the results obtained from finite element method (FEM) simulations, revealed that this drop in the rolling force (DRF) is strongly dependent on the deformation conditions. It was found that the DRF value increases with increasing absolute thickness reduction, roll diameter and friction coefficient. Furthermore, dependency of contact length on the roll radius and wedge angle (slope of the thickness transition zone) was investigated. Accordingly, it was concluded that the variations of the DRF value can be mainly attributed to the changes in the contact length during variable gauge rolling. Moreover, slab method analysis was used to model the effects of deformation conditions on DRF.
Physical and Anthropogenic Factors Related to Landslide Activity in the Northern Peloponnese, Greece
Authors: Skilodimou Hariklia D. , Bathrellos George D. , Koskeridou Efterpi , Soukis Konstantinos , Rozos Dimitrios
Published: July 2018

The geological, geomorphic conditions of a mountainous environment along with precipitation and human activities influence landslide occurrences. In many cases, their relation to landslide events is not well defined. The scope of the present study is to identify the influence of physical and anthropogenic factors in landslide activity. The study area is a mountainous part of the northern Peloponnesus in southern Greece. The existing landslides, lithology, slope angle, rainfall, two types of road network (highway-provincial roads and rural roads) along with land use of the study area are taken into consideration. Each physical and anthropogenic factor is further divided into sub-categories. Statistical analysis of landslide frequency and density, as well as frequency and density ratios, are applied and combined with a geographic information system (GIS) to evaluate the collected data and determine the relationship between physical and anthropogenic factors and landslide activity. The results prove that Plio-Pleistocene fine-grained sediments and flysch, relatively steep slopes (15°–30°) and a rise in the amount of rainfall increase landslide frequency and density. Additionally, Plio-Pleistocene fine-grained sediments and flysch, as well as schist chert formations, moderate (5°–15°) and relatively steep slopes (15°–30°), along with the amount of rainfall of >700 mm are strongly associated with landslide occurrences. The frequency and magnitude of landslides increase in close proximity to roads. Their maximum values are observed within the 50 m buffer zone. This corresponds to a 100 m wide zone along with any type of road corridors, increasing landslide occurrences. In addition, a buffer zone of 75 m or 150 m wide zone along highway and provincial roads, as well as a buffer zone of 100 m or 200 m wide zones along rural roads, are strongly correlated with landslide events. The extensive cultivated land of the study area is strongly related to landslide activity. By contrast, urban areas are poorly related to landslides, because most of them are located in the northern coastal part of the study area where landslides are limited. The results provide information on physical and anthropogenic factors characterizing landslide events in the study area. The applied methodology rapidly estimates areas prone to landslides and it may be utilized for landslide hazard assessment mapping as well as for new and existing land use planning projects.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on Recrystallization Behavior of Single-Crystal Ni-Base Superalloy
Authors: Wang Runnan , Xu Qingyan , Gong Xiufang , Su Xianglin , Liu Baicheng
Published: July 2018

The recrystallization (RX) behavior of superalloy during standard solution heat treatment (SSHT) varies significantly with deformation temperature. Single-crystal (SX) samples of Ni-base superalloy were compressed to 5% plastic deformation at room temperature (RT) and 980 °C, and the deformed samples were then subjected to SSHT process which consists of 1290 °C/1 h, 1300 °C/2 h, and 1315 °C/4 h, air cooling. RT-deformed samples showed almost no RX grains until the annealing temperature was elevated to 1315 °C, while 980 °C-deformed samples showed a large number of RX grains in the initial stage of SSHT. It is inferred that the strengthening effect of γ’ phases and the stacking faults in them increase the driving force of RX for 980 °C-deformed samples. The RX grains nucleate and grow in dendritic arms preferentially when the microstructural inhomogeneity is not completely eliminated by SSHT. A model coupling crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM) and cellular automaton (CA) method was proposed to simulate the RX evolution during SSHT. One ({111} <110>) and three ({111} <110>, {100} <110>, {111} <112>) slip modes were assumed to be activated at RT and 980 °C in CPFEM calculations, respectively. The simulation takes the inhomogeneous as-cast dendritic microstructure into consideration. The simulated RX morphology and density conform well to experimental results.
Microstructure, Tensile, and Creep Behaviors of Ti-22Al-25Nb (at.%) Orthorhombic Alloy with Equiaxed Microstructure
Authors: Wang Wei , Zeng Weidong , Sun Yaling , Zhou Haixiong , Liang Xiaobo
Published: July 2018

This article investigates the tensile and creep behaviors of the Ti-22Al-25Nb (at.%) alloy with equiaxed microstructure. The experimental results show that the equiaxed microstructures are formed by isothermal forging in the α2 + B2 + O phase region, and then heat treating in α2 + B2 + O and B2 + O phase regions. The equiaxed particles are determined by isothermal forging and solution heat treating, and the acicular O phase is obtained by adjusting the aging temperature. The strengths of the alloy are sensitive to the thickness of the secondary acicular O phase. Increase in aging temperature improves strength and reduces the ductility. Deformation of the alloy mainly depends on the volume fraction and deformability of the B2 phase. During the high-temperature tensile deformation, the flow stress decreases with the increasing deformation temperature and increases with the increasing strain rate. The microstructure obtained by higher aging temperature (HT-840) has better creep resistance, due to the coarsening of the secondary acicular O phase.
(−)-Homosalinosporamide A and Its Mode of Proteasome Inhibition: An X-ray Crystallographic Study
Authors: Groll Michael , Nguyen Henry , Vellalath Sreekumar , Romo Daniel
Published: July 2018

Upon acylation of the proteasome by the β-lactone inhibitor salinosporamide A (SalA), tetrahydrofuran formation occurs by intramolecular alkylation of the incipient alkoxide onto the choroethyl sidechain and irreversibly blocks the active site. Our previously described synthetic approach to SalA, utilizing a bioinspired, late-stage, aldol-β-lactonization strategy to construct the bicyclic β-lactone core, enabled synthesis of (–)-homosalinosporamide A (homoSalA). This homolog was targeted to determine whether an intramolecular tetrahydropyran is formed in a similar manner to SalA. Herein, we report the X-ray structure of the yeast 20S proteasome:homoSalA-complex which reveals that tetrahydropyran ring formation does not occur despite comparable potency at the chymotrypsin-like active site in a luminogenic enzyme assay. Thus, the natural product derivative homoSalA blocks the proteasome by a covalent reversible mode of action, opening the door for further fine-tuning of proteasome inhibition.
Preclinical Evaluation of Discorhabdins in Antiangiogenic and Antitumor Models
Authors: Harris Emily M. , Strope Jonathan D. , Beedie Shaunna L. , Huang Phoebe A. , Goey Andrew K. L. , Cook Kristina M. , Schofield Christopher J. , Chau Cindy H. , Cadelis Melissa M. , Copp Brent R. , Gustafson Kirk R. , Figg William D.
Published: July 2018

Elements of the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) transcriptional system, a key regulator of the cellular hypoxic response, are up-regulated in a range of cancer cells. HIF is fundamentally involved in tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and energy metabolism. Inhibition of the transcriptional activity of HIF may be of therapeutic benefit to cancer patients. We recently described the identification of two marine pyrroloiminoquinone alkaloids with potent activity in inhibiting the interaction between the oncogenic transcription factor HIF-1α and the coactivator protein p300. Herein, we present further characterization data for these two screening hits: discorhabdin H (1) and discorhabdin L (2), with a specific focus on their anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor effects. We demonstrated that only discorhabdin L (2) possesses excellent anti-angiogenic activity in inhibiting endothelial cell proliferation and tube formation, as well as decreasing microvessel outgrowth in the ex vivo rat aortic ring assay. We further showed that discorhabdin L (2) significantly inhibits in vivo prostate tumor growth in a LNCaP xenograft model. In conclusion, our findings suggest that discorhabdin L (2) represents a promising HIF-1α inhibitor worthy of further drug development.
Strongly Orthotropic Open Cell Porous Metal Structures for Heat Transfer Applications
Authors: Fink Marcel , Andersen Olaf , Seidel Torsten , Schlott André
Published: July 2018

For modern thermal applications, open cell porous metals provide interesting opportunities to increase performance. Several types of cellular metals show an anisotropic morphology. Thus, using different orientations of the structure can boost or destroy the performance in thermal applications. Examples of such cellular anisotropic structures are lotus-type structures, expanded sheet metal, and metal fiber structures. Lotus-type structures are made by casting and show unidirectional pores, whereas expanded sheet metal structures and metal fiber structures are made from loose semi-finished products that are joined by sintering and form a fully open porous structure. Depending on the type of structure and the manufacturing process, the value of the direction-dependent heat conductivity may differ by a factor of 2 to 25. The influence of the measurement direction is less pronounced for the pressure drop; here, the difference varies between a factor of 1.5 to 2.8, depending on the type of material and the flow velocity. Literature data as well as own measurement methods and results of these properties are presented and the reasons for this strongly anisotropic behavior are discussed. Examples of advantageous applications, for example a latent heat storage device and a heat exchanger, where the preferential orientations are exploited in order to gain the full capacity of the structure’s performance, are introduced.
Recovery of Metals from Secondary Raw Materials by Coupled Electroleaching and Electrodeposition in Aqueous or Ionic Liquid Media
Authors: Leclerc Nathalie , Legeai Sophie , Balva Maxime , Hazotte Claire , Comel Julien , Lapicque François , Billy Emmanuel , Meux Eric
Published: July 2018

This paper presents recent views on a hybrid process for beneficiation of secondary raw materials by combined electroleaching of targeted metals and electrodeposition. On the basis of several case studies with aqueous solutions or in ionic liquid media, the paper describes the potential and the limits of the novel, hybrid technique, together with the methodology employed, combining determination of speciation, physical chemistry, electrochemistry, and chemical engineering. On one hand, the case of electroleaching/electrodeposition (E/E) process in aqueous media, although often investigated at the bench scale, appears nevertheless relatively mature, because of the developed methodology, and the appreciable current density allowed, and so it can be used to successfully treat electrode materials of spent Zn/MnO2 batteries or Ni/Cd accumulators and Waelz oxide. On the other hand, the use of ionic liquids as promising media for the recovery of various metals can be considered for other types of wastes, as shown here for the case of electrodes of aged fuel cells. The combined (E/E) technique could be successfully used for the above waste, in particular by the tricky selection of ionic liquid media. Nevertheless, further investigations in physical chemistry and chemical engineering appear necessary for possible developments of larger-scale processes for the recovery of these strategic resources.
Compound Glass Microsphere Resonator Devices
Authors: Yu Jibo , Lewis Elfed , Farrell Gerald , Wang Pengfei
Published: July 2018

In recent years, compound glass microsphere resonator devices have attracted increasing interest and have been widely used in sensing, microsphere lasers, and nonlinear optics. Compared with traditional silica resonators, compound glass microsphere resonators have many significant and attractive properties, such as high-Q factor, an ability to achieve high rare earth ion, wide infrared transmittance, and low phonon energy. This review provides a summary and a critical assessment of the fabrication and the optical characterization of compound glasses and the related fabrication and applications of compound glass microsphere resonators.