bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electro-Microbiology as a Promising Approach Towards Renewable Energy and Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Ali Jafar , Sohail Aaqib , Wang Lei , Rizwan Haider Muhammad , Mulk Shahi , Pan Gang
Published: July 2018

Microbial electrochemical technologies provide sustainable wastewater treatment and energy production. Despite significant improvements in the power output of microbial fuel cells (MFCs), this technology is still far from practical applications. Extracting electrical energy and harvesting valuable products by electroactive bacteria (EAB) in bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) has emerged as an innovative approach to address energy and environmental challenges. Thus, maximizing power output and resource recovery is highly desirable for sustainable systems. Insights into the electrode-microbe interactions may help to optimize the performance of BESs for envisioned applications, and further validation by bioelectrochemical techniques is a prerequisite to completely understand the electro-microbiology. This review summarizes various extracellular electron transfer mechanisms involved in BESs. The significant role of characterization techniques in the advancement of the electro-microbiology field is discussed. Finally, diverse applications of BESs, such as resource recovery, and contributions to the pursuit of a more sustainable society are also highlighted.
Performance Evaluation of Mesophilic Anaerobic Digestion of Chicken Manure with Algal Digestate
Authors: Duan Na , Ran Xia , Li Ruirui , Kougias Panagiotis G. , Zhang Yuanhui , Lin Cong , Liu Hongbin
Published: July 2018

Dilution is considered to be a fast and easily applicable pretreatment for anaerobic digestion (AD) of chicken manure (CM), however, dilution with fresh water is uneconomical because of the water consumption. The present investigation was targeted at evaluating the feasibility and process performance of AD of CM diluted with algal digestate water (AW) for methane production to replace tap water (TW). Moreover, the kinetics parameters and mass flow of the AD process were also comparatively analyzed. The highest methane production of diluted CM (104.39 mL/g volatile solid (VS)) was achieved with AW under a substrate concentration of 8% total solid (TS). The result was markedly higher in comparison with the group with TW (79.54–93.82 mL/gVS). Apart from the methane production, considering its energy and resource saving, nearly 20% of TW replaced by AW, it was promising substitution to use AW for TW to dilute CM. However, the process was susceptible to substrate concentration, inoculum, as well as total ammonia and free ammonia concentration.
Responses of Soil Labile Organic Carbon to a Simulated Hurricane Disturbance in a Tropical Wet Forest
Authors: Liu Xianbin , Zeng Xiucheng , Zou Xiaoming , Lodge D. Jean , Stankavich Sarah , González Grizelle , Cantrell Sharon A.
Published: July 2018

Hurricanes are an important disturbance in the tropics that can alter forest ecosystem properties and processes. To understand the immediate influence of hurricane disturbance on carbon cycling, we examined soil labile organic carbon (LOC) in a Canopy Trimming Experiment (CTE) located in the Luquillo Experimental Forest of Puerto Rico. We trimmed tree canopy and deposited debris (CTDD) on the forest ground of the treatment plots in December 2014, and collected floor mass samples and 0–10 cm soil samples three weeks before the treatment, as well as at scheduled intervals for 120 weeks after the treatment. Within the first week following the CTDD treatment, the mean soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and soil LOC in the CTDD plots were significantly greater than in the control plots (soil MBC: 2.56 g/kg versus 1.98 g/kg, soil LOC: 9.16 g/kg versus 6.44 g/kg, respectively), and the mean turnover rates of soil LOC in the CTDD plots were significantly faster than in the control plots. The measured indices fluctuated temporally more in the CTDD plots than in the control plots, especially between the 12th and 84th week after the CTDD treatment. The treatment effect on soil LOC and its turnover rate gradually disappeared after the 84th week following the treatment, while higher levels of soil MBC in the CTDD plots than in the control plots remained high, even at the 120th week. Our data suggest that hurricane disturbance can accelerate the cycling of soil LOC on a short temporal scale of less than two years, but might have a longer lasting effect on soil MBC in a tropical wet forest.
A Multi-Stage Price Forecasting Model for Day-Ahead Electricity Markets
Authors: Angamuthu Chinnathambi Radhakrishnan , Mukherjee Anupam , Campion Mitch , Salehfar Hossein , Hansen Timothy , Lin Jeremy , Ranganathan Prakash
Published: July 2018

Forecasting hourly spot prices for real-time electricity markets is a key activity in economic and energy trading operations. This paper proposes a novel two-stage approach that uses a combination of Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) with other forecasting models to improve residual errors in predicting the hourly spot prices. In Stage-1, the day-ahead price is forecasted using ARIMA and then the resulting residuals are fed to another forecasting method in Stage-2. This approach was successfully tested using datasets from the Iberian electricity market with duration periods ranging from one-week to ninety days for variables such as price, load and temperature. A comprehensive set of 17 variables were included in the proposed model to predict the day-ahead electricity price. The Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) results indicate that ARIMA-GLM combination performs better for longer duration periods, while ARIMA-SVM combination performs better for shorter duration periods.
Impact of Veteran Status and Timing of PTSD Diagnosis on Criminal Justice Outcomes
Authors: Smith Brandt A.
Published: July 2018

Previous research has demonstrated that jurors show a bias towards treatment for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The present research examines this bias when jurors are faced with cases of potential malingering, in which the defendant’s claim of PTSD is a perceived attempt to escape legal punishments. Trial vignettes, in which veteran status and PTSD diagnosis timing were manipulated, were used to explore this phenomenon. It was found that veterans who received their diagnosis after being arrested were found guilty more often, and were diverted to treatment less often, than those who were diagnosed before an arrest. This has critical implications for mental healthcare in that it is crucial to properly diagnose and treat people before they find themselves in court. Further, the negative outcomes in court demonstrate one of the severe social impacts of untreated or late-diagnosed PTSD.
Tackling the Consumption of High Sugar Products among Children and Adolescents in the Pacific Islands: Implications for Future Research
Authors: Aldwell Katharine , Caillaud Corinne , Galy Olivier , Frayon Stéphane , Allman-Farinelli Margaret
Published: July 2018

The Pacific Islands are experiencing an obesity epidemic with a rate of overweight and obesity as high as 80% among adults in some Pacific Island nations. Children and adolescents in the region are also affected by overweight and obesity, which is alarming due to the increased likelihood of remaining overweight as an adult. Research supports an association between poor diet and an increased risk of obesity and development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Excess consumption of free sugars is associated with poorer overall diet quality and increased risk of weight gain, chronic inflammation and dental caries. Traditional diets in the Pacific Islands are being supplemented with processed, high-sugar foods and beverages; thus, there is a clear need for effective interventions promoting positive dietary behaviors in the region. School and community based interventions offer an opportunity to promote positive behavior change among children and adolescents. This review aims to evaluate interventions targeting the consumption of high-sugar products in this population in the Pacific Islands.
Allyl Isothiocyanate Ameliorates Dextran Sodium Sulfate-Induced Colitis in Mouse by Enhancing Tight Junction and Mucin Expression
Authors: Kim Min Woo , Choi Seungho , Kim Sun Yeou , Yoon Yeo Sung , Kang Ju-Hee , Oh Seung Hyun
Published: July 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic or recurrent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Even though the current strategies to treat IBD include anti-inflammatory drugs and immune modulators, these treatments have side-effects. New strategies are, therefore, required to overcome the limitations of the therapies. In this study, we investigated the anti-colitic effects of allyl isothiocyanate (AITC), which is an active ingredient present in Wasabia japonica. The DSS-induced colitis model in the mouse was used to mimic human IBD and we observed that AITC treatment ameliorated the severity of colitis. We further studied the mechanism involved to ameliorate the colitis. To investigate the involvement of AITC on the intestinal barrier function, the effect on the intercellular tight junction was evaluated in the Caco-2 cell line while mucin expression was assessed in the LS174T cell line. AITC positively regulated tight junction proteins and mucin 2 (MUC2) against DSS-induced damage or depletion. Our data of in vivo studies were also consistent with the in vitro results. Furthermore, we observed that MUC2 increased by AITC is dependent on ERK signaling. In conclusion, we propose that AITC can be considered as a new strategy for treating IBD by modulating tight junction proteins and mucin.
Phosphokinome Analysis of Barth Syndrome Lymphoblasts Identify Novel Targets in the Pathophysiology of the Disease
Authors: Agarwal Prasoon , Cole Laura K. , Chandrakumar Abin , Hauff Kristin D. , Ravandi Amir , Dolinsky Vernon W. , Hatch Grant M.
Published: July 2018

Barth Syndrome (BTHS) is a rare X-linked genetic disease in which the specific biochemical deficit is a reduction in the mitochondrial phospholipid cardiolipin (CL) as a result of a mutation in the CL transacylase tafazzin. We compared the phosphokinome profile in Epstein-Barr-virus-transformed lymphoblasts prepared from a BTHS patient with that of an age-matched control individual. As expected, mass spectrometry analysis revealed a significant (>90%) reduction in CL in BTHS lymphoblasts compared to controls. In addition, increased oxidized phosphatidylcholine (oxPC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) levels were observed in BTHS lymphoblasts compared to control. Given the broad shifts in metabolism associated with BTHS, we hypothesized that marked differences in posttranslational modifications such as phosphorylation would be present in the lymphoblast cells of a BTHS patient. Phosphokinome analysis revealed striking differences in the phosphorylation levels of phosphoproteins in BTHS lymphoblasts compared to control cells. Some phosphorylated proteins, for example, adenosine monophosphate kinase, have been previously validated as bonafide modified phosphorylation targets observed in tafazzin deficiency or under conditions of reduced cellular CL. Thus, we report multiple novel phosphokinome targets in BTHS lymphoblasts and hypothesize that alteration in the phosphokinome profile may provide insight into the pathophysiology of BTHS and potential therapeutic targets.
Chiral Tectonics: VCD and ECD Application for Epimerization of a Star-Burst Tetranuclear Complex with a Labile Central Core
Authors: Sato Hisako , Sato Fumi , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: July 2018

The present article reports the application of vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) and temperature-dependent electronic circular dichroism (ECD) methods to reveal the dynamical aspects of a star-burst tetranuclear metal complex with a labile central core in a solution. One-handed chiral inert tecton, ∆- or Λ-[Ru(III)(acac)2(taetH)] (acacH = acetylacetone, taetH2 = tetraacetylethane), was prepared by reacting [Ru(acac)3] with taetH2 in solid at 120 °C. The ∆Λ-pair of pure enantiomers was obtained chromatographically. On adding Al(ClO4)3 to its enantiopure solution, three units of one-handed tecton were assembled spontaneously around an aluminum(III) ion to form a star-burst tetranuclear complex, [{∆- or Λ-Ru(acac)2(taet)}3Al(III)]. The VCD spectrum recorded on the CDCl3 solution of the complex showed that the central chirality around an Al(III) ion took dominantly the absolute configuration antipodal to those of peripheral Ru(III) units at the temperature lower than −10 °C. The complex underwent interconversion between the ∆- and Λ-configurations around a central Al(III) core (or epimerization) in solution. The activation energy barrier was determined from the time courses of ECD spectra in CHCl3 and CH3OH.
Interconnected PolymerS TeChnology (IPSTiC): An Effective Approach for the Modulation of 5α-Reductase Activity in Hair Loss Conditions
Authors: Parisi Ortensia Ilaria , Scrivano Luca , Amone Fabio , Malivindi Rocco , Ruffo Mariarosa , Vattimo Anna Francesca , Pezzi Vincenzo , Puoci Francesco
Published: July 2018

Hair loss represents a condition that adversely affects the social life of patients. The most common cause is androgenetic alopecia (AGA), which is a genetically determined progressive hair-loss condition involving 5α-reductase. In this study, a novel anti-baldness agent based on Interconnected PolymerS TeChnology (IPSTiC), which is an effective strategy for the delivery of bioactive molecules, was developed. This product (IPSTiC patch hair) is based on a polymeric blend consisting of high molecular weight hyaluronic acid and soybean proteins and is able to improve efficacy and stability of bioactive ingredients such as Origanum vulgare leaf extract, Camellia Sinensis leaf extract, and Capsicum Annuum fruit extract. The efficacy of the developed anti-baldness agent was investigated by performing several tests including NO radical and 5α-reductase inhibition assays, stability studies under different conditions, and in vitro diffusion studies using Franz cells. The biocompatibility of IPSTiC patch hair was also evaluated by in vitro analysis of the pro-sensitising potential and EPISKIN model. The obtained results confirmed both the efficacy and safety of IPSTiC patch hair supporting the potential use of this product in the topical treatment of AGA.
A Decellularized Porcine Xenograft-Derived Bone Scaffold for Clinical Use as a Bone Graft Substitute: A Critical Evaluation of Processing and Structure
Authors: Bracey Daniel N. , Seyler Thorsten M. , Jinnah Alexander H. , Lively Mark O. , Willey Jeffrey S. , Smith Thomas L. , Van Dyke Mark E. , Whitlock Patrick W.
Published: July 2018

Background: Bone grafts are used in approximately one half of all musculoskeletal surgeries. Autograft bone is the historic gold standard but is limited in supply and its harvest imparts significant morbidity to the patient. Alternative sources of bone graft include allografts, synthetics and, less commonly, xenografts which are taken from animal species. Xenografts are available in unlimited supply from healthy animal donors with controlled biology, avoiding the risk of human disease transmission, and may satisfy current demand for bone graft products. Methods: In the current study, cancellous bone was harvested from porcine femurs and subjected to a novel decellularization protocol to derive a bone scaffold. Results: The scaffold was devoid of donor cellular material on histology and DNA sampling (p < 0.01). Microarchitectural properties important for osteoconductive potential were preserved after decellularization as shown by high resolution imaging modalities. Proteomics data demonstrated similar profiles when comparing the porcine bone scaffold against commercially available human demineralized bone matrix approved for clinical use. Conclusion: We are unaware of any porcine-derived bone graft products currently used in orthopaedic surgery practice. Results from the current study suggest that porcine-derived bone scaffolds warrant further consideration to serve as a potential bone graft substitute.
Acquiring L1-English L2-Spanish Code-Switching: The Role of Exposure to Language Mixing
Authors: Koronkiewicz Bryan
Published: July 2018

This paper explores the code-switching behavior of second language (L2) bilinguals as a lens into the development of their L2 linguistic systems. Specifically, it investigates the acceptability judgments of L1-English L2-Spanish bilinguals on intra-sentential code-switching, comparing those judgments to a group of Spanish–English bilinguals who acquired both languages as an L1. The particular issues of proficiency and bilingual language behavior are analyzed, testing whether either factor has an effect on L2 code-switching intuitions. The results suggest that both proficiency and bilingual language behavior are relevant. L2 bilinguals with an intermediate/advanced proficiency level of Spanish were more likely to align with 2L1 bilinguals with regard to code-switching judgments, as were L2 bilinguals who reported prior experience with language mixing. L2 bilinguals with lower proficiency in Spanish, as well as those who reported never engaging in code-switching, however, were more likely to diverge from the 2L1 bilinguals in their judgments.
Application of Low-Cost Me-N-C (Me = Fe or Co) Electrocatalysts Derived from EDTA in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs)
Authors: Lo Vecchio Carmelo , Aricò Antonino Salvatore , Baglio Vincenzo
Published: July 2018

Co-N-C and Fe-N-C electrocatalysts have been prepared by mixing Fe or Co precursors, ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) as a nitrogen source, and an oxidized carbon. These materials were thermally treated at 800 °C or 1000 °C under nitrogen flow to produce four samples, named CoNC8, CoNC10, FeNC8, and FeNC10. They have been physicochemically characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) analyses have been carried out to investigate the performance of the nonprecious cathode catalysts, using a low amount of Pt (0.7 mg/cm2) at the anode side. It appears that FeNC8 is the best performing low-cost cathode catalyst in terms of higher oxygen reduction reaction activity and methanol tolerance.
Process for a Reactive Monomer Alignment Layer for Liquid Crystals Formed on an Azodye Sublayer
Authors: Wang Junren , McGinty Colin , Reich Robert , Finnemeyer Valerie , Clark Harry , Berry Shaun , Bos Philip
Published: July 2018

In this work, the detailed studies of surface polymerization stabilizing liquid crystal formed on an azodye sublayer are presented. The surface localized stabilization is obtained by free-radical polymerization of a dilute solution of a bi-functional reactive monomer (RM) in a liquid crystal (LC) solvent. To optimize the process for surface localized stabilization, we investigate the effects of several process parameters including RM concentration in LC hosts, the types of materials (either RM or LC), the photo-initiator (PI) concentration, ultra-violet (UV) polymerization intensity, and the UV curing temperature. The quality of surface localized stabilization is characterized and/or evaluated by optical microscopy, electro-optical behavior (transmission/voltage curve), the life test, and photo-bleaching. Our results show that, by carefully selecting materials, formulating mixtures, and controlling the polymerizing variables, the RM polymerization can be realized either at the surface or through the bulk. Overall, the combination of surface localized stabilization and photo-alignment offers an elegant and dynamic solution for controlling the alignment for LC, which could play a profound role in almost all liquid crystal optical devices.
Design and Demonstration of a Low-Cost Small-Scale Fatigue Testing Machine for Multi-Purpose Testing of Materials, Sensors and Structures
Authors: McAlorum Jack , Rubert Tim , Fusiek Grzegorz , Niewczas Pawel , Zorzi Giorgio
Published: July 2018

Mechanical fatigue testing of materials, prototype structures or sensors is often required prior to the deployment of these components in industrial applications. Such fatigue tests often requires the continuous long-term use of an appropriate loading machine, which can incur significant costs when outsourcing and can limit customization options. In this work, design and implementation of a low-cost small-scale machine capable of customizable fatigue experimentation on structural beams is presented. The design is thoroughly modeled using FEM software and compared to a sample experiment, demonstrating long-term endurance of the machine. This approach to fatigue testing is then evaluated against the typical cost of outsourcing in the UK, providing evidence that, for long-term testing of at least 373 h, a custom machine is the preferred option.
Effects of Chemical Composition and Austenite Deformation on the Onset of Ferrite Formation for Arbitrary Cooling Paths
Authors: Pohjonen Aarne , Somani Mahesh , Porter David
Published: July 2018

We present a computational method for calculating the phase transformation start for arbitrary cooling paths and for different steel compositions after thermomechanical treatments. We apply the method to quantitatively estimate how much austenite deformation and how many different alloying elements affect the transformation start at different temperatures. The calculations are done for recrystallized steel as well as strain hardened steel, and the results are compared. The method is parameterized using continuous cooling transformation (CCT) data as an input, and it can be easily adapted for different thermomechanical treatments when corresponding CCT data is available. The analysis can also be used to obtain estimates for the range of values for parameters in more detailed microstructure models.
Transcription of IVIAT and Virulence Genes in Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida Infecting Solea senegalensis
Authors: Núñez-Díaz José , Fumanal Milena , Do Vale Ana , Fernández-Díaz Catalina , Moriñigo Miguel , Balebona María
Published: July 2018

Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida (Phdp) is responsible for disease outbreaks in marine aquaculture worldwide. Solea senegalensis, a valuable fish species for aquaculture in the south of Europe, is frequently affected by this pathogen. It is well established that bacteria respond to environmental signals and, in the case of pathogens, this ability may determine the outcome of their interaction with the host. Determination of gene expression under in vivo conditions constitutes a valuable tool in the assessment of microbial pathogenesis. Considering that different hosts may represent different environments for the pathogen, expression of Phdp virulence and in vivo induced antigen (IVIAT) genes during S. senegalensis infection has been determined in the present work. Increased transcription of genes encoding proteins involved in iron acquisition (Irp1, Irp2, HutB and HutD), oxidative stress defence (AhpC and Sod), adhesion (PDP_0080), toxins (AIP56) and metabolism (Impdh, Shmt and AlaRS) were detected in Phdp infecting S. senegalensis head kidney or liver. The highest increases corresponded to genes involved in survival under iron limiting conditions and oxidative stress, indicating their essential role during infection of sole. Results obtained give insight into Phdp virulence strategies and contribute to the identification of promising targets for the control of photobacteriosis.
Cloacal and Ocular Microbiota of the Endangered Australian Northern Quoll
Authors: Burke Catherine , Burnard Delaney , Polkinghorne Adam , Webb Jonathan , Huston Wilhelmina M.
Published: July 2018

The Australian northern quoll is an important predatory marsupial carnivore that is currently endangered due to inappropriate fire regimes, predation, and the spread of invasive cane toads. The microbiota of Australian marsupials has not been extensively studied, but is thought to play a role in their health. This study provides an initial characterization of the cloacal microbiota of the northern quoll, as well as other marsupials including possums and kangaroos which were opportunistically sampled. The northern quoll cloaca microbiota was dominated by Enterococcus and Lactobacillus and had a relatively high proportion of members of the Proteobacteria phylum, which has been observed in other carnivorous marsupials. The diversity and structure of the microbiota was not influenced by presence of Chlamydiales which are intracellular bacteria and potential pathogens. The microbiota of the other marsupials was quite varied, which may be related to their health status. Characterization of the northern quoll microbiota will help to better understand the biology of this endangered animal.
Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Binder: A Future Construction Material
Authors: Singh Nakshatra
Published: July 2018

A large amount of waste coming out from industries has posed a great challenge in its disposal and effect on the environment. Particularly fly ash, coming out from thermal power plants, which contains aluminosilicate minerals and creates a lot of environmental problems. In recent years, it has been found that geopolymer may give solutions to waste problems and environmental issues. Geopolymer is an inorganic polymer first introduced by Davidovits. Geopolymer concrete can be considered as an innovative and alternative material to traditional Portland cement concrete. Use of fly ash as a raw material minimizes the waste production of thermal power plants and protects the environment. Geopolymer concretes have high early strength and resistant to an aggressive atmosphere. Methods of preparation and characterization of fly ash-based geopolymers have been presented in this paper. The properties of geopolymer cement/mortar/concrete under different conditions have been highlighted. Fire resistance properties and 3D printing technology have also been discussed.
Post-Exercise Whole Body Cryotherapy (−140 °C) Increases Energy Intake in Athletes
Authors: Kojima Chihiro , Kasai Nobukazu , Kondo Chika , Ebi Kumiko , Goto Kazushige
Published: July 2018

PURPOSE: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) treatment after exercise on appetite regulation and energy intake. METHODS: Twelve male athletes participated in two trials on different days. In both trials, participants performed high-intensity intermittent exercise. After 10 min following the completion of the exercise, they were exposed to a 3-min WBC treatment (−140 °C, WBC trial) or underwent a rest period (CON trial). Blood samples were collected to assess plasma acylated ghrelin, serum leptin, and other metabolic hormone concentrations. Respiratory gas parameters, skin temperature, and ratings of subjective variables were also measured after exercise. At 30 min post-exercise, energy and macronutrient intake were evaluated during an ad libitum buffet meal test. RESULTS: Although appetite-regulating hormones (acylated ghrelin and leptin) significantly changed with exercise (p = 0.047 for acylated ghrelin and p < 0.001 for leptin), no significant differences were observed between the trials. Energy intake during the buffet meal test was significantly higher in the WBC trial (1371 ± 481 kcal) than the CON trial (1106 ± 452 kcal, p = 0.007). CONCLUSION: Cold exposure using WBC following strenuous exercise increased energy intake in male athletes.
Evaluation of a Tool to Measure Pharmacists’ Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Barnard Marie , West-Strum Donna , Yang Yi , Holmes Erin
Published: July 2018

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a public health problem that demands a comprehensive health care response. Provider education and training is needed for the entire health care team, including pharmacists, to competently care for IPV-impacted patients. Standardized assessments are needed to determine need for training and to evaluate the effectiveness of IPV training initiatives. The Physician Readiness to Manage Intimate Partner Violence Survey (PREMIS) has previously been validated for physicians. This study adapted and evaluated the PREMIS instrument for use with pharmacists to assess knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and intentions related to IPV and IPV screening. A total of 144 surveys from community pharmacists were analyzed. Pharmacists had low levels of IPV knowledge. Exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-factor structure: workplace and self-efficacy, preparation, legal requirements, alcohol and drugs, and constraints. This instrument can be utilized to guide the development and implementation of IPV-related training initiatives for pharmacists.
Application of Melt-Blown Poly(lactic acid) Fibres in Self-Reinforced Composites
Authors: Vadas Dániel , Kmetykó Dávid , Marosi György , Bocz Katalin
Published: July 2018

The aim of our research was to produce poly(lactic acid) (PLA) fibres with diameters in the micrometer size range, serving as the reinforcing phase in self-reinforced (SR) PLA composites. Nonwoven PLA mats were manufactured by solvent-free melt-blowing technology. Three types of PLA differing in d-lactide content were processed with a productivity as high as 36 g/h. The crystallinity of the PLA microfibres was enhanced by thermal annealing. A 2–3-fold increase in the degree of crystallinity was obtained, as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Fibre diameters between 2–14 µm were revealed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Static tensile tests were performed on the nonwoven mats, showing the reduced moduli of the annealed fibres due the amorphous relaxation. The PLA mats were processed via the hot compaction technique and formed into SR–PLA composites. The morphological and mechanical properties of the obtained microstructural composites were comprehensively studied. Composites prepared from annealed, thermally more stable PLA nonwoven mats showed superior mechanical properties; the tensile strength improved by 47% due to the higher residual fibre content.
Microwave Devulcanized Crumb Rubbers in Polypropylene Based Thermoplastic Dynamic Vulcanizates
Authors: Simon Dániel Ábel , Halász István Zoltán , Karger-Kocsis József , Bárány Tamás
Published: July 2018

Because of the chemically crosslinked 3D molecular structure of rubbers, their recycling is a challenging task, especially when cost efficiency is also considered. One of the most straightforward procedures is the grinding of discarded rubber products with subsequent devulcanization. The devulcanized rubber can be used as a feedstock for fresh rubber compounds or can be blended with uncured virgin rubber and thermoplastic polymers to form thermoplastic dynamic vulcanizates (TDVs). TDVs combine the beneficial (re)processability of thermoplastics and the elastic properties of rubbers. Our current work focuses on the development of polypropylene (PP)-based TDVs with the use of a tire model rubber (MR) composed of natural rubber (NR) and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) in a ratio of 70/30. The research target was the partial substitution of the above fresh MR by microwave devulcanized crumb rubber (dCR). TDVs were produced by continuous extrusion, and the effects of composition (PP/MR/dCR = 40/60/0…50/35/15) and processing parameters (different screw configurations, temperature profiles, the feeding method of PP) were investigated. Results showed that the fresh rubber compound can be replaced up to 10 wt % without compromising the mechanical properties of the resulting TDV.
Tree Species Classification of the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Karkonoski National Park (Poland) Using Artificial Neural Networks and APEX Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Raczko Edwin , Zagajewski Bogdan
Published: July 2018

Knowledge of tree species composition is obligatory in forest management. Accurate tree species maps allow for detailed analysis of a forest ecosystem and its interactions with the environment. The research presented here focused on developing methods of tree species identification using aerial hyperspectral data. The research area is located in Southwestern Poland and covers the Karkonoski National Park (KNP), which was significantly damaged by acid rain and pest infestation in the 1980s. High-resolution (3.35 m) Airborne Prism Experiment (APEX) hyperspectral images (288 spectral bands in the range of 413 to 2440 nm) were used as a basis for tree species classification. Beech (Fagus sylvatica), birch (Betula pendula), alder (Alnus incana), larch (Larix decidua), pine (Pinus sylvestris), and spruce (Picea abies) were classified. The classification algorithm used was feed-forward multilayered perceptron (MLP) with a single hidden layer. To simulate such a network, we used the R programming environment and the nnet package. To provide more accurate measurement of accuracy, iterative accuracy assessment was performed. The final tree species maps cover the whole area of KNP; a median overall accuracy (OA) of 87% was achieved, with median producer accuracy (PA) for all classes exceeding 68%. The best-classified classes were spruce, beech, and birch, with median producer accuracy of 93%, 88% and 83%, respectively. The pine class achieved the lowest median producer and user accuracies (68% and 75%, respectively). The results show great potential for the use of hyperspectral data as a tool for identifying tree species locations in diverse mountainous forest.
Reconstruction of MODIS Land Surface Temperature Products Based on Multi-Temporal Information
Authors: Kang Jian , Tan Junlei , Jin Rui , Li Xin , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2018

Land surface temperature (LST) products derived from the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor are one of the most important data sources used to research land surface energy and water balance at regional and global scales. However, MODIS data are severely contaminated by cloud cover, which limits the applications of LST products. In this paper, based on the spatio-temporal autocorrelation of land surface variables, a reconstruction algorithm depending on the correlations between spatial pixels in multiple time phases from available MODIS LST data is developed to reconstruct clear-sky LST values for missing pixels. Considering the impacts of correlation and bias between predictors and reconstructed data on the modeling error, the known data in the reconstructed time phase are combined with the data temporally nearest to them as predictor variables to establish their temporal relationships with the reconstructed data. The reconstructed results are validated by a series of evaluation indices. The average correlation coefficient between the reconstructed results and ground-based observations is 0.87, showing high temporal change accuracy. The difference in Moran’s I, representing spatial structure characteristics between the known and reconstructed data, is 0.03 on average, indicating a slight loss of spatial accuracy. The average reconstruction rate is approximately 87.0%. The modeling error, as part of the reconstruction error, is only 1.40 K on average and accounts for 5.0% of the total error. If the product and modeling errors are removed, the residual error represents approximately 3.5 K and 5.6 K of the annual mean difference between the cloudy and cloudless LST at night and during the day, respectively. In addition, different reconstruction cases are demonstrated using various predictor data, including many combinations of multi-temporal MODIS LST data, the microwave brightness temperature, and the combination of the normalized difference vegetation index and terrain data. Comparisons among cases show that the known MODIS LST data are more reliable as predictor variables and that the data combination advocated in this paper is optimal.
A Methodology to Simulate LST Directional Effects Based on Parametric Models and Landscape Properties
Authors: Ermida Sofia L. , Trigo Isabel F. , DaCamara Carlos C. , Pires Ana C.
Published: July 2018

The correction of directional effects on satellite-retrieved land surface temperature (LST) is of high relevance for a proper interpretation of spatial and temporal features contained in LST fields. This study presents a methodology to correct such directional effects in an operational setting. This methodology relies on parametric models, which are computationally efficient and require few input information, making them particularly appropriate for operational use. The models are calibrated with LST data collocated in time and space from MODIS (Aqua and Terra) and SEVIRI (Meteosat), for an area covering the entire SEVIRI disk and encompassing the full year of 2011. Past studies showed that such models are prone to overfitting, especially when there are discrepancies between the LSTs that are not related to the viewing geometry (e.g., emissivity, atmospheric correction). To reduce such effects, pixels with similar characteristics are first grouped by means of a cluster analysis. The models’ calibration is then performed on each one of the selected clusters. The derived coefficients reflect the expected impact of vegetation and topography on the anisotropy of LST. Furthermore, when tested with independent data, the calibrated models are shown to maintain the capability of representing the angular dependency of the differences between LST derived from polar-orbiter (MODIS) and geostationary (Meteosat, GOES and Himawari) satellites. The methodology presented here is currently being used to estimate the deviation of LST products with respect to what would be obtained for a reference view angle (e.g., nadir), therefore contributing to the harmonization of LST products.
Accuracy Assessment of Primary Production Models with and without Photoinhibition Using Ocean-Colour Climate Change Initiative Data in the North East Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Lobanova Polina , Tilstone Gavin H. , Bashmachnikov Igor , Brotas Vanda
Published: July 2018

The accuracy of three satellite models of primary production (PP) of varying complexity was assessed against 95 in situ 14C uptake measurements from the North East Atlantic Ocean (NEA). The models were run using the European Space Agency (ESA), Ocean Colour Climate Change Initiative (OC-CCI) version 3.0 data. The objectives of the study were to determine which is the most accurate PP model for the region in different provinces and seasons, what is the accuracy of the models using both high (daily) and low (eight day) temporal resolution OC-CCI data, and whether the performance of the models is improved by implementing a photoinhibition function? The Platt-Sathyendranath primary production model (PPPSM) was the most accurate over all NEA provinces and, specifically, in the Atlantic Arctic province (ARCT) and North Atlantic Drift (NADR) provinces. The implementation of a photoinhibition function in the PPPSM reduced its accuracy, especially at lower range PP. The Vertical Generalized Production Model-VGPM (PPVGPM) tended to over-estimate PP, especially in summer and in the NADR. The accuracy of PPVGPM improved with the implementation of a photoinhibition function in summer. The absorption model of primary production (PPAph), with and without photoinhibition, was the least accurate model for the NEA. Mapped images of each model showed that the PPVGPM was 150% higher in the NADR compared to PPPSM. In the North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre (NAST) province, PPAph was 355% higher than PPPSM, whereas PPVGPM was 215% higher. A sensitivity analysis indicated that chlorophyll-a (Chl a), or the absorption of phytoplankton, at 443 nm (aph (443)) caused the largest error in the estimation of PP, followed by the photosynthetic rate terms and then the irradiance functions used for each model.
Biosensing System for Concentration Quantification of Magnetically Labeled E. coli in Water Samples
Authors: Malec Anna , Kokkinis Georgios , Haiden Christoph , Giouroudi Ioanna
Published: July 2018

Bacterial contamination of water sources (e.g., lakes, rivers and springs) from waterborne bacteria is a crucial water safety issue and its prevention is of the utmost significance since it threatens the health and well-being of wildlife, livestock, and human populations and can lead to serious illness and even death. Rapid and multiplexed measurement of such waterborne pathogens is vital and the challenge is to instantly detect in these liquid samples different types of pathogens with high sensitivity and specificity. In this work, we propose a biosensing system in which the bacteria are labelled with streptavidin coated magnetic markers (MPs—magnetic particles) forming compounds (MLBs—magnetically labelled bacteria). Video microscopy in combination with a particle tracking software are used for their detection and quantification. When the liquid containing the MLBs is introduced into the developed, microfluidic platform, the MLBs are accelerated towards the outlet by means of a magnetic field gradient generated by integrated microconductors, which are sequentially switched ON and OFF by a microcontroller. The velocities of the MLBs and that of reference MPs, suspended in the same liquid in a parallel reference microfluidic channel, are calculated and compared in real time by a digital camera mounted on a conventional optical microscope in combination with a particle trajectory tracking software. The MLBs will be slower than the reference MPs due to the enhanced Stokes’ drag force exerted on them, resulting from their greater volume and altered hydrodynamic shape. The results of the investigation showed that the parameters obtained from this method emerged as reliable predictors for E. coli concentrations.
Real-Time Early Warning System Design for Pluvial Flash Floods—A Review
Authors: Acosta-Coll Melisa , Ballester-Merelo Francisco , Martinez-Peiró Marcos , De la Hoz-Franco Emiro
Published: July 2018

Pluvial flash floods in urban areas are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change and human actions, negatively impacting the life, work, production and infrastructure of a population. Pluvial flooding occurs when intense rainfall overflows the limits of urban drainage and water accumulation causes hazardous flash floods. Although flash floods are hard to predict given their rapid formation, Early Warning Systems (EWS) are used to minimize casualties. We performed a systematic review to define the basic structure of an EWS for rain flash floods. The structure of the review is as follows: first, Section 2 describes the most important factors that affect the intensity of pluvial flash floods during rainfall events. Section 3 defines the key elements and actors involved in an effective EWS. Section 4 reviews different EWS architectures for pluvial flash floods implemented worldwide. It was identified that the reviewed projects did not follow guidelines to design early warning systems, neglecting important aspects that must be taken into account in their implementation. Therefore, this manuscript proposes a basic structure for an effective EWS for pluvial flash floods that guarantees the forecasting process and alerts dissemination during rainfall events.
A System Dynamics Framework for Academic Entrepreneurship
Authors: Xia Jing , Liu Wei , Tsai Sang-Bing , Li Guodong , Chu Chien-Chi , Wang Kai
Published: July 2018

Academic entrepreneurship (AE) models have enhanced the ability of scholars to delineate elements and relationships that are consistent with entrepreneurial activities. However, previous research has not focused on the dynamic feedback loops within AE. Prior models have seldom included feedback obtained from interrupted or implemented activities integrated with individual, organizational, and strategic variables. This paper proposes a model of AE from the perspective of system dynamics that seeks to explore key features of this complex process within the boundaries of a spinoff company. To achieve this goal, we developed a framework that includes four main phases: recognition, commitment, credibility, and sustainability. The model examines and analyzes the key role of innovative academic entrepreneurship during each stage. Feedback loops provide the link between strategic assessment and entrepreneurial renewal according to which AE integrates entrepreneurial and strategic efforts. Combining various perspectives from the previous literature, the proposed model can be activated from any point during the process. By introducing a system dynamics context for the model, this research expands upon the thinking of prior AE research. In practical application, our proposed framework provides insights into the feedback loops and other complexities of the AE process that academic entrepreneurs can apply to support the transfer of innovations in science and technology from academia to commercial settings.
Potential of Particle Matter Dry Deposition on Green Roofs and Living Walls Vegetation for Mitigating Urban Atmospheric Pollution in Semiarid Climates
Authors: Viecco Margareth , Vera Sergio , Jorquera Héctor , Bustamante Waldo , Gironás Jorge , Dobbs Cynnamon , Leiva Eduardo
Published: July 2018

In the last two decades, the incorporation of green roofs and living walls in buildings has increased significantly worldwide because of their benefits such as building energy savings, promoting biodiversity, controlling water run-off, mitigating urban heat island effect, improving indoor and urban air quality, and connecting people with nature. However, few studies have quantified the impact of green roofs (GRs) and living walls (LWs) on mitigating air pollution, especially in semiarid climates where airborne particle matter (PM) levels are high. Therefore, the aim of this paper is quantifying the dry deposition of PM10 and PM2.5 by several vegetation species commonly used in GRs and LWs in semiarid climates. Five species (Pitosporumtobira, Lavandulaangustifolia, Lampranthusspectabillis, Sedumalbum, and Sedumreflexum) for GRs and four species (Apteniacordiflora, Erigeronkarvinskianus, Sedumpalmeri, and Sedumspuriump.) for LWs were tested in an experimental facility—through washing, filtering, and weighing—to quantify the dry deposition of PM2.5 and PM10 on vegetation leaves as well as PM captured by the leaf wax. The main result is that a significant amount of PM is deposited on the typical vegetation used in GRs and LWs in semiarid climates. However, large differences in PM dry deposition were found among species, ranging from 0.09 μg/cm2∙h−1 to 1.32 μg/cm2∙h−1 for PM2.5, 0.48 μg/cm2∙h−1 to 4.7 μg/cm2∙h−1 for PM10 and 0.41 μg/cm2∙h−1 to 25.6 μg/cm2∙h−1 for leaf wax. The species that showed the highest potential to capture PM were S. album, S. reflexum, S. palmeri, and L. spectabillis. This study shows this green infrastructures can contribute to mitigate air pollution, thus GRs and LWs have the potential for being included in decontamination plans.
Exploring Urban Spatial Feature with Dasymetric Mapping Based on Mobile Phone Data and LUR-2SFCAe Method
Authors: Liu Lingbo , Peng Zhenghong , Wu Hao , Jiao Hongzan , Yu Yang
Published: July 2018

Dasymetric mapping of high-resolution population facilitates the exploration of urban spatial feature. While most relevant studies are still challenged by weak spatial heterogeneity of ancillary data and quality of traditional census data, usually outdated, costly and inaccurate, this paper focuses on mobile phone data, which can be real-time and precise, and also strengthens spatial heterogeneity by its massive mobile phone base stations. However, user population recorded by mobile phone base stations have no fixed spatial boundary, and base stations often disperse in extremely uneven spatial distribution, this study defines a distance-decay supply–demand relation between mobile phone user population of gridded base station and its surrounding land patches, and outlines a dasymetric mapping method integrating two-step floating catchment area method (2SFCAe) and land use regression (LUR). The results indicate that LUR-2SFCAe method shows a high fitness of regression, provides population mapping at a finer scale and helps identify urban centrality and employment subcenters with detailed worktime and non-worktime populations. The work involving studies of dasymetric mapping based on LUR-2SFCAe method and mobile phone data proves to be encouraging, sheds light on the relationship between mobile phone users and nearby land use, brings about an integrated exploration of 2SFCAe in LUR with distance-decay effect and enhances spatial heterogeneity.