bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuning Patchy Bonds Induced by Critical Casimir Forces
Authors: Nguyen Truc , Newton Arthur , Kraft Daniela , Bolhuis Peter , Schall Peter
Published: November 2017

Experimental control of patchy interactions promises new routes for the assembly of complex colloidal structures, but remains challenging. Here, we investigate the role of patch width in the assembly of patchy colloidal particles assembled by critical Casimir forces. The particles are composed of a hydrophobic dumbbell with an equatorial hydrophilic polymer shell, and are synthesized to have well-defined patch-to-shell area ratios. Patch-to-patch binding is achieved in near-critical binary solvents, in which the particle interaction strength and range are controlled by the temperature-dependent solvent correlation length. Upon decreasing the patch-to-shell area ratio, we observe a pronounced change of the bonding morphology towards directed single-bonded configurations, as clearly reflected in the formation of chain-like structures. Computer simulations using an effective critical Casimir pair potential for the patches show that the morphology change results from the geometric exclusion of the increasingly thick hydrophilic particle shells. These results highlight the experimental control of patchy interactions through the engineering of the building blocks on the way towards rationally designed colloidal superstructures.
Inflammatory Biomarkers of Cardiometabolic Risk in Obese Egyptian Type 2 Diabetics
Authors: Barakat Lamiaa , Shora Hassan , El-Deen Ibrahim , El-Sayed El-Sayed
Published: November 2017

Inflammatory biomarkers provide a minimally invasive means for early detection and specific treatment of metabolic syndrome and related disorders. The objective of this work was to search for inflammatory biomarkers of cardiometabolic risk in obese type 2 diabetics. The study was performed on 165 persons attending the medical outpatient clinic of Ismailia General Hospital. Their mean age was (50.69 ± 10.15) years. They were divided into three groups. The control group was composed of 55 non-obese, non-diabetic healthy volunteers, 32 males and 23 females. Two study groups were included in this study: group 2 was composed of 55 obese, non-diabetic subjects, 25 males and 30 females matched for age and gender. All patients including the control were subjected to clinical history taking, a clinical examination for the measurement of body mass index (BMI). Investigations were carried out for fasting blood glucose, fasting serum insulin, insulin resistance (IR), the lipid profile, lipoprotein band lipoprotein phospholipase A2, and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C). Urea, albumin and creatinine analysis and liver function tests were performed, and a complete blood count (CBC) was taken. Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were tested. There were statistically significant differences among the studied groups in terms of total cholesterol, non-HDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 and apolipoprotein B. The inflammatory biomarkers hs-CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α were significantly statistically increased in the study groups by (1.62 ± 0.99, 2.32 ± 1.11), (1.73 ± 1.14, 2.53 ± 1.34), and (1.87 ± 1.09, 2.17 ± 0.89) respectively, where p < 0.01. Significant positive correlation was found between Homeostatic Model Assessment (HOMA)-IR, hs-CRP and IL-6. There was a significant positive correlation between non-HDL and hs-CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α and triglycerides and hs-CRP. In conclusion, in this study, CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly elevated in obese Egyptian type 2 diabetics and were positively correlated with insulin resistance, non-HDL and triglycerides. These inflammatory biomarkers could help in the premature identification of obese type 2 diabetic patients at high cardiometabolic risk. Additionally, these biomarkers are critical for providing prognostics and the validity of future potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic modalities.
Effects of Vibration Amplitude on Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Strength of Ultrasonic Spot Welded Cu/Al Joints
Authors: Liu Jian , Cao Biao , Yang Jingwei
Published: November 2017

The effects of vibration amplitude on the interface reaction and mechanical strength of the Cu/Al joints were systematically investigated in ultrasonic spot welding (USW) experiments. The appropriate vibration amplitude (22.5 μm) was beneficial for obtaining a sound joint. The formation of the continuous intermetallic compounds (IMC) layer accelerated with a higher vibration amplitude. The lap shear tensile strength of the Cu/Al joints decreased when the thickness of the intermetallic layer was greater than 1 μm at various amplitudes. With the increase in welding time, a crack occurred in the copper side owing to the occurrence of the eutectic reaction, α-A l + θ → L , at the periphery of the nugget. The remarkable decline of ultrasonic power curves occurred at various amplitude levels upon the formation of a crack in the copper side.
Effects of Dolomite on Mineral Compositions and Metallurgical Properties of Chromium-Bearing Vanadium–Titanium Magnetite Sinter
Authors: Yang Songtao , Tang Weidong , Zhou Mi , Jiang Tao , Xue Xiangxin , Zhang Weijun
Published: November 2017

Chengde chromium-bearing vanadium–titanium magnetite (CCVTM) has been used as an important mineral resource in sinter making. The MgO content of this sinter can be enhanced by adding dolomite, which improved operation of the blast furnace. The effects of MgO in the form of dolomite on metallurgical properties, microstructure and mineral compositions of CCVTM sinter were studied by a sinter pot test, X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and mineral phase microanalysis. The results were as follows: The flame front speed and sinter coefficient decreased with an increase in MgO content from 2.66 to 3.86% by adding dolomite. With an increase in MgO content from 2.66 to 3.86%, the flame front speed, sintering utilization factor, and the value of RI decreased, while RDI and the softening–melting properties improved. In addition, the value of sinter strength (TI) reached a maximum value at MgO = 3.56%. In addition, an increase in the abundance of magnetite, magnesium ferrite, and silicate phase, as well as a decrease in hematite, was found with an increase in MgO content. We concluded that the most appropriate MgO content in the sinter is 3.56%.
Influence of Amlodipine Enantiomers on Human Microsomal Cytochromes P450: Stereoselective Time-Dependent Inhibition of CYP3A Enzyme Activity
Authors: Krasulova Kristyna , Holas Ondrej , Anzenbacher Pavel
Published: November 2017

Amlodipine (AML) is available as a racemate, i.e., a mixture of R- and S-enantiomers. Its inhibitory potency towards nine cytochromes P450 (CYP) was studied to evaluate the drug–drug interactions between the enantiomers. Enzyme inhibition was evaluated using specific CYP substrates in human liver microsomes. With CYP3A, both enantiomers exhibited reversible and time-dependent inhibition. S-AML was a stronger reversible inhibitor of midazolam hydroxylation: the Ki values of S- and R-AML were 8.95 µM, 14.85 µM, respectively. Computational docking confirmed that the enantiomers interact differently with CYP3A: the binding free energy of S-AML in the active site was greater than that for R-AML (−7.6- vs. −6.7 kcal/mol). Conversely, R-AML exhibited more potent time-dependent inhibition of CYP3A activity (KI 8.22 µM, Kinact 0.065 min−1) than S-AML (KI 14.06 µM, Kinact 0.041 min−1). R-AML was also a significantly more potent inhibitor of CYP2C9 (Ki 12.11 µM/S-AML 21.45 µM) and CYP2C19 (Ki 5.97 µM/S-AML 7.22 μM. In conclusion, results indicate that clinical use of S-AML has an advantage not only because of greater pharmacological effect, but also because of fewer side effects and drug–drug interactions with cytochrome P450 substrates due to absence of R-AML.
Abies Concolor Seeds and Cones as New Source of Essential Oils—Composition and Biological Activity
Authors: Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Szoka Łukasz , Karna Ewa , Wiktorowska-Owczarek Anna , Sienkiewicz Monika
Published: November 2017

The chemical composition, including the enantiomeric excess of the main terpenes, of essential oils from seeds and cones of Abies concolor was studied by chromatographic (GC) and spectroscopic methods (mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance), leading to the determination of 98 compounds. Essential oils were mainly composed of monoterpene hydrocarbons. The dominant volatiles of seed essential oil were: limonene (47 g/100 g, almost pure levorotary form) and α-pinene (40 g/100 g), while α-pinene (58 g/100 g), sabinene (11 g/100 g), and β-pinene (4.5 g/100 g) were the predominant components of the cone oil. The seed and cone essential oils exhibited mild antibacterial activity, and the MIC ranged from 26 to 30 μL/mL against all of the tested bacterial standard strains: Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. The cytotoxic studies have demonstrated that tested essential oils were cytotoxic to human skin fibroblasts and human microvascular endothelial cells at concentrations much lower than the MIC. The essential oils from A. concolor seeds and cones had no toxic effect on human skin fibroblasts and human microvascular endothelial cells, when added to the cells at a low concentration (0–0.075 μL/mL) and (0–1.0 μL/mL), respectively, and cultured for 24 h.
Peroxides with Anthelmintic, Antiprotozoal, Fungicidal and Antiviral Bioactivity: Properties, Synthesis and Reactions
Authors: Vil’ Vera , Yaremenko Ivan , Ilovaisky Alexey , Terent’ev Alexander
Published: November 2017

The biological activity of organic peroxides is usually associated with the antimalarial properties of artemisinin and its derivatives. However, the analysis of published data indicates that organic peroxides exhibit a variety of biological activity, which is still being given insufficient attention. In the present review, we deal with natural, semi-synthetic and synthetic peroxides exhibiting anthelmintic, antiprotozoal, fungicidal, antiviral and other activities that have not been described in detail earlier. The review is mainly concerned with the development of methods for the synthesis of biologically active natural peroxides, as well as its isolation from natural sources and the modification of natural peroxides. In addition, much attention is paid to the substantially cheaper biologically active synthetic peroxides. The present review summarizes 217 publications mainly from 2000 onwards.
Fast Extraction and Detection of 4-Methylimidazole in Soy Sauce Using Magnetic Molecularly Imprinted Polymer by HPLC
Authors: Feng Zufei , Lu Yan , Zhao Yingjuan , Ye Helin
Published: November 2017

On the basis of magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer (MMIP) solid-phase extraction coupled with high performance liquid chromatography, we established a new method for the determination of the 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) in soy sauce. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) were used to characterize the synthesized MMIPs. To evaluate the polymers, batch rebinding experiments were carried out. The binding strength and capacity were determined from the derived Freundlich isotherm (FI) equation. The selective recognition capability of MMIPs was investigated with a reference compound and a structurally similar compound. As a selective pre-concentration sorbents for 4-methylimidazole in soy sauce, the MMIPs showed a satisfied recoveries rate of spiked samples, ranged from 97% to 105%. As a result, the prepared MMIPs could be applied to selectively pre-concentrate and determine 4-methylimidazole in soy sauce samples.
Continuous Preparation of Hollow Polymeric Nanocapsules Using Self-Assembly and a Photo-Crosslinking Process of an Amphiphilic Block Copolymer
Authors: Nguyen Xuan , Jeon Hyeong , Nguyen Van , Park Dong , Lee Taeheon , Paik Hyun-jong , Huh June , Go Jeung
Published: November 2017

This paper presents a fabrication method of hollow polymeric nanocapsules (HPNCs). The HPNCs were examined to reduce light trapping in an organic light emitting diodes (OLED) device by increasing the refractive index contrast. They were continuously fabricated by the sequential process of self-assembly and photo-crosslinking of an amphiphilic block copolymer of SBR-b-PEGMA, poly(styrene-r-butadiene)-b-poly(poly(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) in a flow-focusing microfluidic device. After the photo-crosslinking process, the produced HPNCs have a higher resistance to water and organic solvents, which is applicable to the fabrication process of optical devices. The morphology and hollow structure of the produced nanocapsules were determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Also, their size control was examined by varying the ratio of inlet flow rates and the morphological difference was studied by changing the polymer concentration. The size was measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The refractive index of the layer with and without the HPNCs was measured, and a lower refractive index was obtained in the HPNCs-dispersed layer. In future work, the light extraction efficiency of the HPNCs-dispersed OLED will be examined.
Structural and Functional Properties Changes of β-Conglycinin Exposed to Hydroxyl Radical-Generating Systems
Authors: Xu Jing , Chen Zijing , Han Dong , Li Yangyang , Sun Xiaotong , Wang Zhongjiang , Jin Hua
Published: November 2017

The objective of the present study was to examine the structural and functional changes of β-conglycinin exposed to oxidizing radicals produced by FeCl3/H2O2/ascorbic acid hydroxyl radical-generating system (HRGS) for 3 h at room temperature. Increasing H2O2 concentrations resulted in a loss of histidine residues, lysine residues, and available lysine, which was accompanied by the formation of protein carbonyls and disulphide bonds (p < 0.05). Changes in secondary structure, surface hydrophobicity, and intrinsic fluorescence indicated that hydroxyl radicals had induced protein unfolding and conformational alterations. Results from SDS-PAGE implied that a small amount of protein cross-linkages produced by oxidative incubation. The emulsifying properties of β-conglycinin were gradually improved with the increasing extent of oxidation. The structural changes above contributed to the reduction of potential allergenicity of β-conglycinin, as verified by specific ELISA analysis. These results suggest that moderate oxidation could partially improve the protein functional properties and reduced the potential allergy of protein, providing guidance for effective use of moderately oxidized soy protein in the industry.
One-Pot Facile Methodology to Synthesize Chitosan-ZnO-Graphene Oxide Hybrid Composites for Better Dye Adsorption and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Sanmugam Anandhavelu , Vikraman Dhanasekaran , Park Hui , Kim Hyun-Seok
Published: November 2017

Novel chitosan–ZnO–graphene oxide hybrid composites were prepared using a one-pot chemical strategy, and their dye adsorption characteristics and antibacterial activity were demonstrated. The prepared chitosan and the hybrids such as chitosan–ZnO and chitosan–ZnO–graphene oxide were characterized by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The thermal and mechanical properties indicate a significant improvement over chitosan in the hybrid composites. Dye adsorption experiments were carried out using methylene blue and chromium complex as model pollutants with the function of dye concentration. The antibacterial properties of chitosan and the hybrids were tested against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial species, which revealed minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 0.1 µg/mL.
Functionalized ZnO Nanoparticles with Gallic Acid for Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity against Methicillin-Resistant S. aureus
Authors: Lee Joomin , Choi Kyong-Hoon , Min Jeeeun , Kim Ho-Joong , Jee Jun-Pil , Park Bong Joo
Published: November 2017

In this study, we report a new multifunctional nanoparticle with antioxidative and antibacterial activities in vitro. ZnO@GA nanoparticles were fabricated by coordinated covalent bonding of the antioxidant gallic acid (GA) on the surface of ZnO nanoparticles. This addition imparts both antioxidant activity and high affinity for the bacterial cell membrane. Antioxidative activities at various concentrations were evaluated using a 2,2′-azino-bis(ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radical scavenging method. Antibacterial activities were evaluated against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus: S. aureus), including several strains of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli). The functionalized ZnO@GA nanoparticles showed good antioxidative activity (69.71%), and the bactericidal activity of these nanoparticles was also increased compared to that of non-functionalized ZnO nanoparticles, with particularly effective inhibition and high selectivity for MRSA strains. The results indicate that multifunctional ZnO nanoparticles conjugated to GA molecules via a simple surface modification process displaying both antioxidant and antibacterial activity, suggesting a possibility to use it as an antibacterial agent for removing MRSA.
A New Proposal for the Pathogenic Mechanism of Non-Coeliac/Non-Allergic Gluten/Wheat Sensitivity: Piecing Together the Puzzle of Recent Scientific Evidence
Authors: Leccioli Valentina , Oliveri Mara , Romeo Marcello , Berretta Massimiliano , Rossi Paola
Published: November 2017

Non-coeliac/non-allergic gluten/wheat sensitivity (NCG/WS) is a gluten-related disorder, the pathogenesis of which remains unclear. Recently, the involvement of an increased intestinal permeability has been recognized in the onset of this clinical condition. However, mechanisms through which it takes place are still unclear. In this review, we attempt to uncover these mechanisms by providing, for the first time, an integrated vision of recent scientific literature, resulting in a new hypothesis about the pathogenic mechanisms involved in NCG/WS. According to this, the root cause of NCG/WS is a particular dysbiotic profile characterized by decreased butyrate-producing-Firmicutes and/or Bifidobacteria, leading to low levels of intestinal butyrate. Beyond a critical threshold of the latter, a chain reaction of events and vicious circles occurs, involving other protagonists such as microbial lipopolysaccharide (LPS), intestinal alkaline phosphatase (IAP) and wheat α-amylase trypsin inhibitors (ATIs). NCG/WS is likely to be a multi-factor-onset disorder, probably transient and preventable, related to quality and balance of the diet, and not to the presence of gluten in itself. If future studies confirm our proposal, this would have important implications both for the definition of the disease, as well as for the prevention and therapeutic-nutritional management of individuals with NCG/WS.
Effect of Orally Administered Collagen Peptides from Bovine Bone on Skin Aging in Chronologically Aged Mice
Authors: Song Hongdong , Zhang Siqi , Zhang Ling , Li Bo
Published: November 2017

Collagen peptides (CPs) have demonstrated to exert beneficial effects on skin photoaging. However, little has been done to evaluate their effects on chronologically aged skin. Here, the effects of CPs from bovine bone on skin aging were investigated in chronologically aged mice. 13-month-old female Kunming mice were administered with CPs from bovine bone (200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight/day) or proline (400 mg/kg body weight/day) for 8 weeks. Mice body weight, spleen index (SI) and thymus index (TI), degree of skin laxity (DSL), skin components, skin histology and antioxidant indicators were analyzed. Ingestion of CPs or proline had no effect on mice skin moisture and hyaluronic acid content, but it significantly improved the skin laxity, repaired collagen fibers, increased collagen content and normalized the ratio of type I to type III collagen in chronologically aged skin. CPs prepared by Alcalase performed better than CPs prepared by collagenase. Furthermore, CPs intake also significantly improved the antioxidative enzyme activities in skin. These results indicate that oral administration of CPs from bovine bone or proline can improve the laxity of chronologically aged skin by changing skin collagen quantitatively and qualitatively, and highlight their potential application as functional foods to combat skin aging in chronologically aged process.
Vitamin C and Immune Function
Authors: Carr Anitra , Maggini Silvia
Published: November 2017

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient for humans, with pleiotropic functions related to its ability to donate electrons. It is a potent antioxidant and a cofactor for a family of biosynthetic and gene regulatory enzymes. Vitamin C contributes to immune defense by supporting various cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune system. Vitamin C supports epithelial barrier function against pathogens and promotes the oxidant scavenging activity of the skin, thereby potentially protecting against environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C accumulates in phagocytic cells, such as neutrophils, and can enhance chemotaxis, phagocytosis, generation of reactive oxygen species, and ultimately microbial killing. It is also needed for apoptosis and clearance of the spent neutrophils from sites of infection by macrophages, thereby decreasing necrosis/NETosis and potential tissue damage. The role of vitamin C in lymphocytes is less clear, but it has been shown to enhance differentiation and proliferation of B- and T-cells, likely due to its gene regulating effects. Vitamin C deficiency results in impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to infections. In turn, infections significantly impact on vitamin C levels due to enhanced inflammation and metabolic requirements. Furthermore, supplementation with vitamin C appears to be able to both prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. Prophylactic prevention of infection requires dietary vitamin C intakes that provide at least adequate, if not saturating plasma levels (i.e., 100–200 mg/day), which optimize cell and tissue levels. In contrast, treatment of established infections requires significantly higher (gram) doses of the vitamin to compensate for the increased inflammatory response and metabolic demand.
Essential Oils and Antifungal Activity
Authors: Nazzaro Filomena , Fratianni Florinda , Coppola Raffaele , Feo Vincenzo De
Published: November 2017

Since ancient times, folk medicine and agro-food science have benefitted from the use of plant derivatives, such as essential oils, to combat different diseases, as well as to preserve food. In Nature, essential oils play a fundamental role in protecting the plant from biotic and abiotic attacks to which it may be subjected. Many researchers have analyzed in detail the modes of action of essential oils and most of their components. The purpose of this brief review is to describe the properties of essential oils, principally as antifungal agents, and their role in blocking cell communication mechanisms, fungal biofilm formation, and mycotoxin production.
New Insight into Time-Temperature Correlation for Polymer Relaxations Ranging from Secondary Relaxation to Terminal Flow: Application of a Universal and Developed WLF Equation
Authors: Shangguan Yonggang , Chen Feng , Jia Erwen , Lin Yu , Hu Jun , Zheng Qiang
Published: November 2017

The three equations involved in the time-temperature superposition (TTS) of a polymer, i.e., Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF), Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann–Hesse (VFTH) and the Arrhenius equation, were re-examined, and the mathematical equivalence of the WLF form to the Arrhenius form was revealed. As a result, a developed WLF (DWLF) equation was established to describe the temperature dependence of relaxation property for the polymer ranging from secondary relaxation to terminal flow, and its necessary criteria for universal application were proposed. TTS results of viscoelastic behavior for different polymers including isotactic polypropylene (iPP), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE) and ethylene-propylene rubber (EPR) were well achieved by the DWLF equation at high temperatures. Through investigating the phase-separation behavior of poly(methyl methacrylate)/poly(styrene-co-maleic anhydride) (PMMA/SMA) and iPP/EPR blends, it was found that the DWLF equation can describe the phase separation behavior of the amorphous/amorphous blend well, while the nucleation process leads to a smaller shift factor for the crystalline/amorphous blend in the melting temperature region. Either the TTS of polystyrene (PS) and PMMA or the secondary relaxations of PMMA and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) confirmed that the Arrhenius equation can be valid only in the high temperature region and invalid in the vicinity of glass transition due to the strong dependence of apparent activation energy on temperature; while the DWLF equation can be employed in the whole temperature region including secondary relaxation and from glass transition to terminal relaxation. The theoretical explanation for the universal application of the DWLF equation was also revealed through discussing the influences of free volume and chemical structure on the activation energy of polymer relaxations.
Bio-Based Poly(Ether Imide)s from Isohexide-Derived Isomeric Dianhydrides
Authors: Ji Xiaodong , Wang Zikun , Wang Zhen , Yan Jingling
Published: November 2017

In this work, four isohexide-derived isomeric dianhydrides were synthesized through a four-step procedure using isohexide and chloro-N-phenylphthalimides as the starting materials. The one-step solution polymerization of these dianhydrides with petroleum- or bio-based diamines enabled the synthesis of poly(ether imide)s (PEIs), which had viscosities of 0.41 to 2.40 dL∙g−1. The isohexide-derived PEIs were characterized based upon their solubility and their thermal, mechanical, and optical properties. The results showed that most of the isohexide-derived PEIs possessed comparable glass transition temperatures (Tg), tensile strengths, and moduli to petroleum-based PEIs. However, the thermo-oxidative stability of the PEIs was found to be lower than that of the common petroleum-based PEIs. Moreover, the PEIs displayed good optical activity, which originated from their unique chiral isohexide moieties. The isomeric effects of dianhydride monomers on the properties of the resulting PEIs were comparatively studied. The results suggested that the corresponding 4,4′-linked PEIs possessed lower Tg, higher mechanical properties, and higher specific rotations compared to 3,3′-linked polymers. Meanwhile, the polyimides with isomannide residue displayed higher Tg and more specific rotations than the corresponding polymers with isosorbide residue. These results contributed to more restricted rotations of phthalimide segments in 3,3′-linked or isomannide containing polyimides.
Comparison of Global Land Cover Datasets for Cropland Monitoring
Authors: Pérez-Hoyos Ana , Rembold Felix , Kerdiles Hervé , Gallego Javier
Published: November 2017

Accurate and reliable information on the spatial distribution of major crops is needed for detecting possible production deficits with the aim of preventing food security crises and anticipating response planning. In this paper, we compared some of the most widely used global land cover datasets to examine their comparative advantages for cropland monitoring. Cropland class areas are compared for the following datasets: FAO-GLCshare (FAO Global Land Cover Network), Geowiki IIASA-Hybrid (Hybrid global land cover map from the International Institute of Applied System Analysis), GLC2000 (Global Land Cover 2000), GLCNMO2008 (Global Land Cover by National Mapping Organizations), GlobCover, Globeland30, LC-CCI (Land Cover Climate Change Initiative) 2010 and 2015, and MODISLC (MODIS Land Cover product). The methodology involves: (1) highlighting discrepancies in the extent and spatial distribution of cropland, (2) comparing the areas with FAO agricultural statistics at the country level, and (3) providing accuracy assessment through freely available reference datasets. Recommendations for crop monitoring at the country level are based on a priority ranking derived from the results obtained from analyses 2 and 3. Our results revealed that cropland information varies substantially among the analyzed land cover datasets. FAO-GLCshare and Globeland30 generally provided adequate results to monitor cropland areas, whereas LC-CCI2010 and GLC2000 are less unsuitable due to large overestimations in the former and out of date information and low accuracy in the latter. The recently launched LC-CCI datasets (i.e., LC-CCI2015) show a higher potential for cropland monitoring uses than the previous version (i.e., LC-CCI2010).
A Middleware Solution for Wireless IoT Applications in Sparse Smart Cities
Authors: Bellavista Paolo , Giannelli Carlo , Lanzone Stefano , Riberto Giulio , Stefanelli Cesare , Tortonesi Mauro
Published: November 2017

The spread of off-the-shelf mobile devices equipped with multiple wireless interfaces together with sophisticated sensors is paving the way to novel wireless Internet of Things (IoT) environments, characterized by multi-hop infrastructure-less wireless networks where devices carried by users act as sensors/actuators as well as network nodes. In particular, the paper presents Real Ad-hoc Multi-hop Peer-to peer-Wireless IoT Application (RAMP-WIA), a novel solution that facilitates the development, deployment, and management of applications in sparse Smart City environments, characterized by users willing to collaborate by allowing new applications to be deployed on their smartphones to remotely monitor and control fixed/mobile devices. RAMP-WIA allows users to dynamically configure single-hop wireless links, to manage opportunistically multi-hop packet dispatching considering that the network topology (together with the availability of sensors and actuators) may abruptly change, to actuate reliably sensor nodes specifically considering that only part of them could be actually reachable in a timely manner, and to upgrade dynamically the nodes through over-the-air distribution of new software components. The paper also reports the performance of RAMP-WIA on simple but realistic cases of small-scale deployment scenarios with off-the-shelf Android smartphones and Raspberry Pi devices; these results show not only the feasibility and soundness of the proposed approach, but also the efficiency of the middleware implemented when deployed on real testbeds.
Plasmonic Waveguide Coupled Ring Cavity for a Non-Resonant Type Refractive Index Sensor
Authors: Kwon Soon-Hong
Published: November 2017

Sensitive refractive index sensors with small footprints have been studied to allow the integration of a large number of sensors into a tiny chip for bio/chemical applications. In particular, resonant-type index sensors based on various micro/nanocavities, which use a resonant wavelength dependence on the refractive index of the analyte, have been developed. However, the spectral linewidth of the resonance, which becomes the resolution limit, is considerably large in plasmonic cavities due to the large absorption loss of metals. Therefore, there is demand for a new type of plasmonic refractive index sensor that is not limited by the linewidth of the cavity. We propose a new type of plasmonic index sensors consisting of a channel waveguide and a ring cavity. Two emissions from the ring cavity in both directions of the waveguide couple with a reflection phase difference depending on the length of a closed right arm with a reflecting boundary. Therefore, the output power dramatically and sensitively changes as a function of the refractive index of the analyte filling the waveguide.
Adaptive Sampling for Urban Air Quality through Participatory Sensing
Authors: Zeng Yuanyuan , Xiang Kai
Published: November 2017

Air pollution is one of the major problems of the modern world. The popularization and powerful functions of smartphone applications enable people to participate in urban sensing to better know about the air problems surrounding them. Data sampling is one of the most important problems that affect the sensing performance. In this paper, we propose an Adaptive Sampling Scheme for Urban Air Quality (AS-air) through participatory sensing. Firstly, we propose to find the pattern rules of air quality according to the historical data contributed by participants based on Apriori algorithm. Based on it, we predict the on-line air quality and use it to accelerate the learning process to choose and adapt the sampling parameter based on Q-learning. The evaluation results show that AS-air provides an energy-efficient sampling strategy, which is adaptive toward the varied outside air environment with good sampling efficiency.
Molecular Biosensors for Electrochemical Detection of Infectious Pathogens in Liquid Biopsies: Current Trends and Challenges
Authors: Campuzano Susana , Yáñez-Sedeño Paloma , Pingarrón José
Published: November 2017

Rapid and reliable diagnosis of infectious diseases caused by pathogens, and timely initiation of appropriate treatment are critical determinants to promote optimal clinical outcomes and general public health. Conventional in vitro diagnostics for infectious diseases are time-consuming and require centralized laboratories, experienced personnel and bulky equipment. Recent advances in electrochemical affinity biosensors have demonstrated to surpass conventional standards in regards to time, simplicity, accuracy and cost in this field. The tremendous potential offered by electrochemical affinity biosensors to detect on-site infectious pathogens at clinically relevant levels in scarcely treated body fluids is clearly stated in this review. The development and application of selected examples using different specific receptors, assay formats and electrochemical approaches focusing on the determination of specific circulating biomarkers of different molecular (genetic, regulatory and functional) levels associated with bacterial and viral pathogens are critically discussed. Existing challenges still to be addressed and future directions in this rapidly advancing and highly interesting field are also briefly pointed out.
All-Solid-State Sodium-Selective Electrode with a Solid Contact of Chitosan/Prussian Blue Nanocomposite
Authors: Ghosh Tanushree , Chung Hyun-Joong , Rieger Jana
Published: November 2017

Conventional ion-selective electrodes with a liquid junction have the disadvantage of potential drift. All-solid-state ion-selective electrodes with solid contact in between the metal electrode and the ion-selective membrane offer high capacitance or conductance to enhance potential stability. Solution-casted chitosan/Prussian blue nanocomposite (ChPBN) was employed as the solid contact layer for an all-solid-state sodium ion-selective electrode in a potentiometric sodium ion sensor. Morphological and chemical analyses confirmed that the ChPBN is a macroporous network of chitosan that contains abundant Prussian blue nanoparticles. Situated between a screen-printed carbon electrode and a sodium-ionophore-filled polyvinylchloride ion-selective membrane, the ChPBN layer exhibited high redox capacitance and fast charge transfer capability, which significantly enhanced the performance of the sodium ion-selective electrode. A good Nernstian response with a slope of 52.4 mV/decade in the linear range from 10−4–1 M of NaCl was observed. The stability of the electrical potential of the new solid contact was tested by chronopotentiometry, and the capacitance of the electrode was 154 ± 4 µF. The response stability in terms of potential drift was excellent (1.3 µV/h) for 20 h of continuous measurement. The ChPBN proved to be an efficient solid contact to enhance the potential stability of the all-solid-state ion-selective electrode.
New ZnO-Based Glass Ceramic Sensor for H2 and NO2 Detection
Authors: Hassan Mohamed , Afify Ahmed S. , Ataalla Mohamed , Milanese Daniel , Tulliani Jean-Marc
Published: November 2017

In this study, a glass ceramic with a nominal composition 58ZnO:4Bi2O3:4WO3:33.3B2O3 was synthesized by melt quenching technique. A gas sensor was then manufactured using a ZnO sol-gel phase as a permanent binder of the glass–ceramic to an alumina substrate having interdigitated electrodes. The film sensitivity towards humidity, NH3, H2 and NO2 was studied at different temperatures. X-ray diffraction technique (XRD), field emission- scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) were used to characterize the prepared material. Though the response in the sub-ppm NO2 concentration range was not explored, the observed results are comparable with the latest found in the literature.
Design Optimisation of a Magnetic Field Based Soft Tactile Sensor
Authors: Boer Gregory de , Raske Nicholas , Wang Hongbo , Kow Junwai , Alazmani Ali , Ghajari Mazdak , Culmer Peter , Hewson Robert
Published: November 2017

This paper investigates the design optimisation of a magnetic field based soft tactile sensor, comprised of a magnet and Hall effect module separated by an elastomer. The aim was to minimise sensitivity of the output force with respect to the input magnetic field; this was achieved by varying the geometry and material properties. Finite element simulations determined the magnetic field and structural behaviour under load. Genetic programming produced phenomenological expressions describing these responses. Optimisation studies constrained by a measurable force and stable loading conditions were conducted; these produced Pareto sets of designs from which the optimal sensor characteristics were selected. The optimisation demonstrated a compromise between sensitivity and the measurable force, a fabricated version of the optimised sensor validated the improvements made using this methodology. The approach presented can be applied in general for optimising soft tactile sensor designs over a range of applications and sensing modes.
Dual-Recycling Channel Decision in a Closed-Loop Supply Chain with Cost Disruptions
Authors: Huang Yanting , Wang Zongjun
Published: November 2017

This paper investigates cost disruptions of new and remanufactured products in a closed-loop supply chain where a manufacturer and a third-party collector recycle used products through online-recycling and offline-recycling channels, respectively. We use a Stackelberg game to acquire the equilibrium decisions of dual-recycling and single-recycling channels and analyze how cost disruptions affect the manufacturer’ production and collection strategies. We show that, cost disruption of new products produces a positive impact whilst the remanufacturing cost disruption has a negative impact on collection quantity of used products and negative cost disruptions of both new and remanufactured products could be profitable to the manufacturer. As for the manufacturer’s channel choice, the dual-recycling channel dominates single-recycling channels when new product cost faces positive disruption, because the manufacturer acts as both a buyer and a competitor to the collector and can determine an appropriate acquisition price and transfer price to coordinate the online-offline recycling channel. While if cost disruption of new products is negative, the manufacturer prefers the dual-recycling channel instead of single-recycling channels only if the remanufacturing cost faces large size of negative disruption.
Customer Purchasing Behavior Analysis as Alternatives for Supporting In-Store Green Marketing Decision-Making
Authors: Syaekhoni M. , Alfian Ganjar , Kwon Young
Published: November 2017

Due to increasing concerns about environmental protection, the environmental sustainability of businesses has been widely considered in the manufacturing and supply chain context. Further, its adoption has been implemented in the retail industry for marketing field, including green product promotion. This study aimed to propose a customer purchasing behavior analysis as an alternative for supporting decision-making in order to promote green products in retail stores. Hence, right-on-target marketing strategies can be implemented appropriately. The study was carried out using shopping path data collected by radio frequency identification (RFID) from a large retail store in Seoul, South Korea. In addition, the store layout and its traffic were also analyzed. This method is expected to help experts providing appropriate decision alternatives. In addition, it can help retailers in order to increase product sales and achieve high levels of customer satisfaction.
Monitoring and Optimization of the Process of Drying Fruits and Vegetables Using Computer Vision: A Review
Authors: Raponi Flavio , Moscetti Roberto , Monarca Danilo , Colantoni Andrea , Massantini Riccardo
Published: November 2017

An overview is given regarding the most recent use of non-destructive techniques during drying used to monitor quality changes in fruits and vegetables. Quality changes were commonly investigated in order to improve the sensory properties (i.e., appearance, texture, flavor and aroma), nutritive values, chemical constituents and mechanical properties of drying products. The application of single-point spectroscopy coupled with drying was discussed by virtue of its potentiality to improve the overall efficiency of the process. With a similar purpose, the implementation of a machine vision (MV) system used to inspect foods during drying was investigated; MV, indeed, can easily monitor physical changes (e.g., color, size, texture and shape) in fruits and vegetables during the drying process. Hyperspectral imaging spectroscopy is a sophisticated technology since it is able to combine the advantages of spectroscopy and machine vision. As a consequence, its application to drying of fruits and vegetables was reviewed. Finally, attention was focused on the implementation of sensors in an on-line process based on the technologies mentioned above. This is a necessary step in order to turn the conventional dryer into a smart dryer, which is a more sustainable way to produce high quality dried fruits and vegetables.
A Hybrid RES Distributed Generation System for Autonomous Islands: A DER-CAM and Storage-Based Economic and Optimal Dispatch Analysis
Authors: Michalitsakos Panagiotis , Mihet-Popa Lucian , Xydis George
Published: November 2017

The possibility of replacing the existing autonomous thermal power plants by Distributed Energy Resources (DER) based on renewable energy sources (RES), along with the appropriate energy storage technologies in order to deal with the major problems that autonomous islands usually face was investigated. A case study of a small Greek island, which is confronted by various energy and water shortages, was studied for assessing the feasibility of DER deployment. The main objectives investigated were cost minimization, CO2 emissions minimization and DER reliability maximization. The DER-CAM (Distributed Energy Resources Customer Adoption Model) decision support tool was used for the multi-objective analysis conducted, which proposes a set of optimal solutions defining the appropriate Distributed Generation (DG) technologies, the capacities of storage and other technologies and the optimal dispatch of the DG system. A mutual beneficial solution, for all stakeholders, was proposed indicating the scope for developing such systems for all islands facing the same problems.
Measuring Corporate Social Responsibility in Gambling Industry: Multi-Items Stakeholder Based Scales
Authors: Luo Jian Ming , Lam Chi Fung , Chau Ka Yin , Shen Hua Wen , Wang Xin
Published: November 2017

Macau gambling companies included Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) information in their annual reports and websites as a marketing tool. Responsible Gambling (RG) had been a recurring issue in Macau’s chief executive report since 2007 and in many of the major gambling operators’ annual report. The purpose of this study was to develop a measurement scale on CSR activities in Macau. Items on the measurement scale were based on qualitative research with data collected from employees in Macau’s gambling industry and academic literature. First and Second Order confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to verify the reliability and validity of the measurement scale. The results of this study were satisfactory and were supported by empirical evidence. This study provided recommendations to gambling stakeholders, including practitioners, government officers, customers and shareholders, and implications to promote CSR practice in Macau gambling industry.
A Dual Hesitant Fuzzy Rough Pattern Recognition Approach Based on Deviation Theories and Its Application in Urban Traffic Modes Recognition
Authors: Zhang Fangwei , Chen Jihong , Zhu Yuhua , Li Jiaru , Li Qiang , Zhuang Ziyi
Published: November 2017

In this paper, the dual hesitant fuzzy rough set (DHFRS) is studied from the viewpoint of assessment deviations. Firstly, according to the relationship between intuitionistic fuzzy set and vague set, the DHFRS is transferred into a fuzzy set, where the membership of any given element to it has multi-grouped values. By the idea of bootstrap sampling, a group of four sets are generated to describe the membership degree on DHFRS, where the elements of the aforementioned sets are all considered as assessment values. Secondly, the generated sets are dealt with by assessment deviation theories, and specifically, two variables are proposed to describe the systematic and random deviations of the sets. Thirdly, the true-value of the membership degree of any elements to the set is estimated by a deviation-based dual hesitant fuzzy rough weighted aggregating operator. Fourthly, a dual hesitant fuzzy rough pattern recognition approach based on assessment deviation theories is proposed. Finally, an urban traffic modes recognition example is given to illustrate the validity of the proposed theories on DHFRSs.
The Unexpected Tuners: Are LncRNAs Regulating Host Translation during Infections?
Authors: Knap Primoz , Tebaldi Toma , Di Leva Francesca , Biagioli Marta , Dalla Serra Mauro , Viero Gabriella
Published: November 2017

Pathogenic bacteria produce powerful virulent factors, such as pore-forming toxins, that promote their survival and cause serious damage to the host. Host cells reply to membrane stresses and ionic imbalance by modifying gene expression at the epigenetic, transcriptional and translational level, to recover from the toxin attack. The fact that the majority of the human transcriptome encodes for non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) raises the question: do host cells deploy non-coding transcripts to rapidly control the most energy-consuming process in cells—i.e., host translation—to counteract the infection? Here, we discuss the intriguing possibility that membrane-damaging toxins induce, in the host, the expression of toxin-specific long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which act as sponges for other molecules, encoding small peptides or binding target mRNAs to depress their translation efficiency. Unravelling the function of host-produced lncRNAs upon bacterial infection or membrane damage requires an improved understanding of host lncRNA expression patterns, their association with polysomes and their function during this stress. This field of investigation holds a unique opportunity to reveal unpredicted scenarios and novel approaches to counteract antibiotic-resistant infections.