bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autopoiesis, Observation and Informatics: Lessons from the Development of Autopoietic Systems Theory in Japan
Authors: Hashimoto Wataru
Published: April 2018

This article is concerned with redefining the notion of information from a perspective of systems theory. In recent years, the notion of information, which was closely related to the framework of old cybernetics, has been refined in parallel with the emergence of new cybernetics, especially second-order cybernetics and autopoiesis. The systemic view of new cybernetics provides us with the notion of “informationally closed system.” This notion is congruent with the epistemological implications of radical constructivism. In order to help understand this argument, we aim at highlighting the development of autopoietic systems theory in Japan. Autopoiesis has often been considered as a thoroughly closed system in Japan, where the relationships between autopoiesis and radical constructivism have frequently been overlooked. This is mainly because the importance which autopoietic systems theory originally attaches to the notion of observer and observation has been inadequately discussed, and autopoietic systems theory is regarded as distinct from second-order cybernetics and radical constructivism. However, they must be dealt with together, and Humberto Maturana should be given credit for his ontology of observing. Since the publication of his paper “Biology of Cognition,” Maturana has been attempting to explain the notion of observation as a biological phenomenon in his own way. Likewise, by taking into consideration the notion of observation, we can build a unified theory of information. Fundamental Informatics, which is being developed by Toru Nishigaki, outlines a unified approach to information by putting human observers at the center of his theory. Social and mechanical information is generated only when human observers conduct observations on the basis of biological information, and this mechanism of generation of information is discussed through the notion of “hierarchical autonomous system.” For an autopoietic organi- zation to be realized, of course, no hierarchy of systems is required, but observers are likely to construct some hierarchy between two systems. The construction of certain hierarchies of systems by observers is of great use for the explanation of fictitious phenomena of information transmission.
Analyzing Double Image Illusion through Double Indiscernibility and Lattice Theory
Authors: Sonoda Kohei , Kitamura Eugene S , Tani Iori , Shirakawa Tomohiro , Gunji Yukio-Pegio
Published: April 2018

The figure-ground division plays a fundamental role in all image perceptions. Although there are a lot of studies about extraction of a figure such as detection of edges or grouping of texture, there are few discussions about a relationship between obtained figure and ground. We focused on double image illusions having two complementary relationships be- tween figure and ground and analyzed them. We divided the double image illusions according to two different interpretations and using these divisions we extracted and analyzed their logical structures by lattices derived from rough sets that we had developed. As a result we discovered unusual logical structures in double image illusions.
Computer-Mediated Communication Systems
Authors: Yu Bin
Published: April 2018

The essence of communication is to exchange and share information. Computers provide a new medium to human communication. CMC system, composed of human and computers, absorbs and then extends the advantages of all former formats of communication, embracing the instant interaction of oral communication, the abstract logics of printing dissemination, and the vivid images of movie and television. It also creates a series of new communication formats, such as Hyper Text, Multimedia etc. which are the information organizing methods, and cross-space message delivering patterns. Benefiting from the continuous development of technique and mechanism, the computer-mediated communication makes the dream of transmitting information cross space and time become true, which will definitely have a great impact on our social lives.
Study on the Self–Growth of the Internet Communication System
Authors: Xia Yun-Feng
Published: April 2018

In this essay, I mainly discuss the self-organizing property of the Internet communication system. As an important part of the human information communication system, Internet communication has progressively become a system with large scale, complex constructions, and perfect functions through the complicated interactions among many sub-systems and their elements. In this process, which is mainly promoted by Internet users, the self-growth of the Internet communica- tion system not only increases the amount of its sub-systems and its elements, it also strengthens its constructions and functions. At the same time, the self-growth of the Internet communication system indicates that the system is an evolving system with self-organizing property.
Book Review: The Spectacle 2.0: Reading Debord in the Context of Digital Capitalism, edited by Marco Briziarelli and Emiliana Armano
Authors: Weinberg Lindsay
Published: April 2018

Lindsay Weinberg reviews Marco Briziarelli and Emiliana Armano (eds.) 2017. The Spectacle 2.0: Reading Debord in the Context of Digital Capitalism. London: University of Westminster Press.
Measuring the psychophysiological changes in combat Veterans participating in an equine therapy program
Authors: Gehrke Ellen Kaye , Noquez Alice E. , Ranke Peggy L. , Myers Michael P.
Published: April 2018

Introduction: This study addressed the following research questions: (1) Does horsemanship training with Veterans lead to a balance in the autonomic nervous system? and (2) Does horsemanship training with Veterans lead to a self-perceived improvement in quality of life? Methods: A total of 17 participants in 3 different cohorts participated weekly in an 8-week equine therapy experience designed to address and heal combat Veterans suffering from anxiety and other symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study took place in San Diego County, California, where the Veterans worked with seasoned therapy horses and experienced riding instructors. The effectiveness of this program was quantitatively evaluated by measuring heart rate variability (HRV), and scores on the positive and negative affect schedule (PANAS). HRV was measured before, during, and after each session to determine the impact on the autonomic nervous system. The PANAS was administered before and after each session to determine self-perceived improvement in quality of life. Results: Analysis of the HRV results revealed a weekly improvement in HRV patterns at each measurement stage. The average low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio of study participants significantly decreased by 20.6% ( F=9.84, p<0.001). Poincaré plots of the participant's R-R values further demonstrated improved HRV. The average positive affect score on the PANAS significantly increased by 14.4% ( t=5.78, p<0.001) with Veterans reporting they felt less anxiety and stress. Discussion: This study provided evidence-based results that therapeutic horsemanship programs may bring psychophysiological benefits to Veterans suffering from trauma, stress and anxiety associated with PTSD.
Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Itaconic Anhydride Grafted Poly(lactic acid) and Thermoplastic Protein Blends
Authors: Walallavita A. S. , Verbeek C. J. R. , Lay M. C.
Published: April 2018

Blends between Novatein thermoplastic protein and polylactic acid (PLA) have been prepared by reactive extrusion using itaconic anhydride grafted PLA. At equal proportions of Novatein and PLA, the absence of a compatibilizer formed a dispersed phase morphology of Novatein in PLA and the incorporation of compatibilizer formed a co-continuous morphology. Incorporating PLA in Novatein can improve the tensile strength of Novatein by 42% and the impact strength by 36% at an equal proportion blend (50/50) in the presence of a compatibilizer. Thermal analysis revealed that 50/50 was the phase inversion point, above and below this composition the material behaved similarly. The effect of compatibilizer was evident in wide-angle X-ray scattering. In the absence of compatibilizer three phases were detected: crystalline Novatein, amorphous Novatein, and amorphous PLA phases. With compatibilizer, the blend was moving towards two phases: crystalline Novatein, and an amorphous blend of Novatein and PLA. Itaconic anhydride grafted PLA improved miscibility between Novatein and PLA, and its use can potentially lead to the production of Novatein/PLA foams.
Experimental and Theoretical Study on Screw Filling in Starve Fed Single Screw Extruders
Authors: Wilczyński K. J.
Published: April 2018

An extensive experimental and theoretical study has been performed on screw filling in starve fed/flood fed single screw extruders. The effect of screw speed, flow rate (level of starvation) and die geometry has been investigated. A “screw pulling-out” technique was used in the study. The solid conveying, melting positions, the extent of starvation, and the fully filled regions were observed. It was seen that filling of the screw increases with an increase of the flow rate at a fixed screw speed, and decreases with an increase of the screw speed at a fixed flow rate. The screw filling is strongly dependent on the die geometry and increases with an increase of the resistance of the die. The pressure was also measured, and it was observed that it considerably decreases with starvation. Mechanism of screw filling has been discussed. The simulations and experiments were performed for low density polyethylene (LDPE) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) at various operating conditions, both for starve fed and flood fed extrusion. Fill factor, pressure, temperature and melting profiles have been computed and validated experimentally. All the experimental observations were consistent with the simulations.
A Novel Technique for Manufacturing Polypropylene Based Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Singh A. K. , Siddhartha
Published: April 2018

This article proposes a first of its kind manufacturing route to fabricate thermoplastic based functionally graded materials (FGMs). FGMs and homogeneous composites are fabricated by means of an especially designed mold and a punch. The punch acts as an integral rotating member of the mold and has a cavity where the material is filled to produce the desired samples. The punch rotates at 1 800 min−1 for two minutes to create deliberate segregation of fibers towards the periphery of the punch cavity. Polypropylene filled with 15 wt% and 30 wt% glass fibers is used to fabricate FGMs and homogeneous composites. Unfilled Polypropylene is also fabricated for comparative study. Gradation in FGM is verified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis and Shore D hardness measured in four different zones of the fabricated specimens. Gradation in FGM is also verified by ignition loss test method. It is observed from SEM that fibers tend to conglomerate towards the circumference due to inherent effects of centrifugal force. The hardness of FGMs is found to be high as compared to homogeneous composites. This route shows a promising potential for fabrication of thermoplastics based FGMs which otherwise are difficult to make because of their rapid solidifying characteristics.
An Open-Source Framework for the Computer Aided Design of Complex Profile Extrusion Dies
Authors: Rajkumar A. , Ferrás L. L. , Fernandes C. , Carneiro O. S. , Sacramento A. , Nóbrega J. M.
Published: April 2018

This work presents a new design procedure for improving the flow distribution in complex profile extrusion dies. The proposed approach is based on open source software and aims to motivate both academics and industrials to consider numerical methodologies in their future developments. A new solver was implemented in OpenFOAM computational library in order to model the steady non-isothermal flow of inelastic fluids. The developed code was verified with the Method of Manufactured Solutions. The capability of the proposed design procedure was experimentally assessed with an industrial case study, and the results obtained suggest that the computational based design aid is an excellent alternative to the usual experimental trial-and-error procedure used in industry.
Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) technology: A way to reduce irrigation cost and ensure higher yields of Boro rice
Authors: Neogi Mrinmoy Guha , Uddin AKM Salah , Uddin M Taj , Hamid Muhammad Abdul
Published: April 2018

Massive extraction of groundwater for boro rice is the main cause of declining groundwater tables, especially in Rangpur Division, which is now a burning issue at the national level. It is now scientifically proven that rice is not a water-loving plant, but rather a water-tolerant plant. AWD can save water and energy, where both farmers and pump-owners can save around 30% of their irrigation water requirements. In Bangladesh around 4.8 million hectares of land are brought under irrigated boro rice where AWD technology can be utilized. With introduction of AWD technology, a savings of electricity costs equivalent to 5 billion Tk. or fuel cost equivalent to 7 billion Tk. will be incurred at the national level. Hence, the implementation of AWD technology will have major impacts at the farm and national levels, which can reduce irrigation cost significantly, thus saving foreign currency, as well as reducing excessive use of ground water.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(1): 1-4, April 2018
Standardization of protocol for in vitro propagation of banana (Musa sapientum)
Authors: Hoque Farhana , Robbani Mahbub , Hasan Md Fakhrul , Parvin Jahanara
Published: April 2018

An experiment was conducted at the Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Patuakhali Science and Technology University during the period from August 2016 to April 2017 to standardize the protocol for in vitro propagation of banana. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design with four replications. Three to four months aged field grown rhizome attached shoots were used as explants and cultured on MS medium with different concentrations and combinations of BAP (6-benzylamino purine), BAP + KIN (Kinetin) + NAA (Naphthalene Acetic Acid) and IBA (Indole-3- Butyric Acid) + IAA (Indole-3- Acetic Acid) to observe their efficacy on single shoot initiation, shoot multiplication and root formation respectively. Minimum number of days required for shoot initiation (9.07) with highest shoot initiation percentage (91.14) and the longest shoot (2.23 cm) was found in MS medium supplemented with 5.0 mg/L BAP. On the other hand, highest shoot multiplication percentage (80.99) with maximum number of shoots per explant (4.47), the highest length of shoots (4.17 cm) and maximum number of leaves (4.04)was observed in MS medium supplemented with 4.0 mg/L BAP + 2.0 mg/L KIN + 2.0 mg/L NAA. In case of root regeneration, the best results on days required for root initiation (9.00), the highest root initiation percentage (85.05), maximum number of roots per plantlet (5.83) and the highest length of roots (4.17 cm) was obtained in MS medium supplemented with1.5 mg/L IBA + 0.5 mg/L IAA. After 5-7 days of hardening in room temperature, established plantlets were ready for plantingJ. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(1): 27-30, April 2018
Effects of combined application of chemical fertilizer and vermicompost on soil fertility, leaf yield and stevioside content of stevia
Authors: Zaman MM , Rahman Md Arifur , Chowdhury Tanzin , Chowdhury MAH
Published: April 2018

Sustainable nutrient management with the combination of organic and chemical fertilizer amendment expects a key part in upgrading stevia yield without harming the environment and to build up the nutrient balance with increasing soil fertility. A pot experiment was conducted in the net house of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to study the combined effect of vermicompost (VC) and chemical fertilizer (CF) on the growth, leaf biomass yield and stevioside content of stevia in acid soil. Six combinations of VC and CF were applied following completely randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Results showed that VC along with different rates of CF exerted significant influence on the growth, leaf biomass yield and stevioside content of stevia and postharvest soil fertility. The highest values for most of the parameters were found from the plant receiving VC @ 7.5 t ha­−1 along with 50% CF. About 578% higher leaf biomass yield was obtained from the treatment VC7.5+CF50 over control. Stevioside content was increased with the increasing levels of VC up to 7.5 t ha−1 along with 75% of CF and also with the advancement of growth period from 30 to 60 days after planting. The highest amount of stevioside (11.05%) was detected in the leaves of plant of the same treatment at harvest. Soil acidity was significantly decreased with the increased levels of VC and CF where as soil fertility in terms of organic matter and nutrient content was increased. Considering the overall performance, farmers may be advised to cultivate stevia in acid soil applying VC @ 7.5 t ha−1 along with 50% chemical fertilizer to boost up stevia production under the agroclimatic condition of the study area in the context of BangladeshJ. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(1): 73-81, April 2018
Cardioprotective molecule and bioactive compounds of some selected vegetables available in Bangladesh
Authors: Sakil Md Arif , Polash Mohammed Arif Sadik , Arif Md Tahjib Ul , Hossain Md Afzal , Hossain Md Alamgir
Published: April 2018

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death and morbidity as well as imposing a huge economic burden at both country and household level. Upto 90% cardiovascular disease may be preventable if established risk factors are avoided. In this context, dietary nitrate from vegetables was highlighted as a potential candidate for cardio protection. Hence, by supplying dietary nitrate and other bio-active compounds to ease the risk of cardiovascular disease, present research work was carried out. Among the tested vegetables, the highest nitrate content (745 mg/100g) was determined in Indian spinach. In addition, Indian spinach also possesses more chlorophyll (150mg/100g), beta carotene (40mg/100g) and lycopene (34mg/100g) than other tested vegetables in the current study. In case of anti-oxidant content, Indian spinach showed the highest (103mg/100g) vitamin C content. Taken all together, Indian spinach may be a good and cheapest source of cardio protective molecule (nitrate) bioactive compounds to avoid risk of cardiovascular disease.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(1): 82-87, April 2018
Determinants of tomato farmers efficiency in Mymensingh district of Bangladesh: Data Envelopment Analysis approach
Authors: Mitra Sandip , Yunus Muhammad
Published: April 2018

Tomato is one of the major vegetables in Bangladesh that experienced massive productivity growth after independence. Nevertheless, farmers are struggling to find out optimal input combination in their farm that causes inefficient input use. Therefore, this study estimated the factors affecting efficiency of tomato farmers in Mymensingh of Bangladesh. Input oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) was employed for measuring efficiency while Tobit regression model was used to estimate the factors affecting efficiency. A total of 60 tomato farmers were selected using random sampling technique. Mean technical efficiency for tomato farmers was 0.83 implies that tomato farmers can reduce their input use by 17%. Education, training and high yielding variety adoption had positive effect on efficiency while age of tomato farmer’s had negative effect on efficiency. Efficiency increased with the farmer’s education, training and variety adoption. Farmer’s adopting local high yielding variety was more efficient than that of exotic high yielding variety. In addition, efficiency of farmers reduced with their age. Improvement of tomato farmer’s efficiency is possible if farmers received education, training and local high yielding variety.J. Bangladesh Agril. Univ. 16(1): 93-97, April 2018
Sustainable Intensification in Dryland Cropping Systems—Perspectives for Adaptions across the Western Siberian Grain Belt
Authors: Kühling Insa , Atoev Shohrukh , Trautz Dieter
Published: April 2018

The Western Siberian grain belt is of global significance in terms of agricultural production as well as carbon sequestration and biodiversity preservation. Regional downscaling of general circulation models predict increasing drought risks and water scarcity for this area. Additionally, significant land-use changes took place in this region after the dissolution of the USSR and collapse of the state farm system: Land-use intensity in Western Siberia (Russian Federation) continuously decreased on grassland, whilst on cropland the intensity increased through recultivation of abandoned cropland and rising fertilizer inputs since 2003. Together, these changing conditions have led to challenges for sustainable agriculture in this semi-arid environment. For sustainable land management, strategies for adapted crop production systems are needed. In agronomic field trials, the potential of enhanced water use efficiency as contribution to a resilient agricultural system under changing climate conditions was evaluated and related to the common practice and regional research. In participatory on-farm trials, higher average soil water content (+40%) in the top soil layer led to higher grain yield (+0.4 t ha−1) and protein yield (+0.05 t ha−1) under no-till compared to the common practice of conventional tillage. Despite this, regional research still promotes bare fallowing with beneficial effects only in the first harvest after fallow, whereas the potential of no-till was visible each year, even under above-average wet and cool growing conditions. In this case study from the Western Siberian grain belt, we depict a possible pathway to make cereal production in Western Siberia more sustainable. However, the approach of applied sustainable intensification by promoting no-till is related to the negative concomitant effect of increased herbicide applications. Due to the strict rejection of GMOs in Russian agriculture by the federal government, this is a great opportunity to maintain a large, pristine area of over 17 million km2 with a lower risk of glyphosate-dependent cropping systems.
Salt Tolerance of Six Switchgrass Cultivars
Authors: Sun Youping , Niu Genhua , Ganjegunte Girisha , Wu Yanqi
Published: April 2018

Panicum virgatum L. (switchgrass) cultivars (‘Alamo’, ‘Cimarron’, ‘Kanlow’, ‘NL 94C2-3’, ‘NSL 2009-1’, and ‘NSL 2009-2’) were evaluated for salt tolerance in two separate greenhouse experiments. In experiment (Expt.) 1, switchgrass seedlings were irrigated with a nutrient solution at an electrical conductivity (EC) of 1.2 dS·m−1 (control) or a saline solution (spiked with salts) at an EC of 5.0 dS·m−1 (EC 5) or 10.0 dS·m−1 (EC 10) for four weeks, once a week. Treatment EC 10 reduced the tiller number by 32% to 37% for all switchgrass cultivars except ‘Kanlow’. All switchgrass cultivars under EC 10 had a significant reduction of 50% to 63% in dry weight. In Expt. 2, switchgrass was seeded in substrates moistened with either a nutrient solution of EC 1.2 dS·m−1 (control) or a saline solution of EC of 5.0, 10.0, or 20.0 dS·m−1 (EC 5, EC 10, or EC 20). Treatment EC 5 did not affect the seedling emergence, regardless of cultivar. Compared to the control, EC 10 reduced the seedling emergence of switchgrass ‘Alamo’, ‘Cimarron’, and ‘NL 94C2-3’ by 44%, 33%, and 82%, respectively. All switchgrass cultivars under EC 10 had a 46% to 88% reduction in the seedling emergence index except ‘NSL 2009-2’. No switchgrass seedlings emerged under EC 20. In summary, high salinity negatively affected switchgrass seedling emergence and growth. Dendrogram and cluster of six switchgrass cultivars indicated that ‘Alamo’ was the most tolerant cultivar, while ‘NSL 2009-2’ was the least tolerant cultivar at both seedling emergence and growth stages. A growth-stage dependent response to salinity was observed for the remaining switchgrass cultivars. ‘NSL 2009-1’ and ‘NL 94C2-3’ were more tolerant to salinity than ‘Cimarron’ and ‘Kanlow’ at the seedling emergence stage; however, ‘Kanlow’ and ‘Cimarron’ were more tolerant to salinity than ‘NSL 2009-1’ and ‘NL 94C2-3’ at the seedling growth stage.
Development of Semantic Web-Enabled BDI Multi-Agent Systems Using SEA_ML: An Electronic Bartering Case Study
Authors: Challenger Moharram , Tezel Baris Tekin , Alaca Omer Faruk , Tekinerdogan Bedir , Kardas Geylani
Published: April 2018

In agent-oriented software engineering (AOSE), the application of model-driven development (MDD) and the use of domain-specific modeling languages (DSMLs) for Multi-Agent System (MAS) development are quite popular since the implementation of MAS is naturally complex, error-prone, and costly due to the autonomous and proactive properties of the agents. The internal agent behavior and the interaction within the agent organizations become even more complex and hard to implement when the requirements and interactions for the other agent environments such as the Semantic Web are considered. Hence, in this study, we propose a model-driven MAS development methodology which is based on a domain-specific modeling language (called SEA_ML) and covers the whole process of analysis, modeling, code generation and implementation of a MAS working in the Semantic Web according to the well-known Belief-Desire-Intention (BDI) agent principles. The use of new SEA_ML-based MAS development methodology is exemplified with the development of a semantic web-enabled MAS for electronic bartering (E-barter). Achieved results validated the generation and the development-time performance of applying this new MAS development methodology. More than half of the all agents and artifacts needed for fully implementing the E-barter MAS were automatically obtained by just using the generation features of the proposed methodology.
Optimal Power Allocation with Hybrid Relaying Based on the Channel Condition
Authors: Jeon Junpyo , Shim Yeonggyu , Park Hyuncheol
Published: April 2018

This paper considers a hybrid relay network consisting of the source, the amplify-and-forward (AF) relay, the decode-and-forward (DF) relay, and the destination. In hybrid three-hop relay systems, the transmitted signal from source can be received at the destination after processing the signals through two relays. If the first relay amplifies and forwards the received signal, and the second relay decodes and forwards the received signal, the system model is considered to be an AF-DF relay system. The reverse case is considered for the DF-AF relay system. The AF-DF and DF-AF relay systems have different error rates and achievable throughput with respect to the channel conditions between two nodes. We propose optimal power allocation schemes for two different relays in order to maximize the achievable rate under a sum relay power constraint for given channel gains and transmit power from the source. By solving the optimization problem to maximize the achievable rate for each relay network, the transmit power values in closed form are derived. When the channel gains are the same, the optimal power allocation scheme for the AF-DF relay network proves that greater power should be allocated at the first relay to maximize the achievable rate. In the case of the DF-AF relay network, we derive an optimal power allocation scheme for the four possible cases. Under the same signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) condition, at the first hop we show that the achievable rate of the AF-DF relay network is greater than that of the DF-AF relay network when the channel gain between two relays is greater than that between the second relay and destination. Simulation results show that the proposed power allocation schemes provide a higher achievable rate than the equal power allocation scheme and the grid search schemes.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Commercial Acetaminophen: Evaluation, Modeling, and Scaling-Up of Photoreactors
Authors: Castilla-Caballero Déyler , Machuca-Martínez Fiderman , Bustillo-Lecompte Ciro , Colina-Márquez José
Published: April 2018

In this work, the performance of a pilot-scale solar CPC reactor was evaluated for the degradation of commercial acetaminophen, using TiO2 P25 as a catalyst. The statistical Taguchi’s method was used to estimate the combination of initial pH and catalyst load while tackling the variability of the solar radiation intensity under tropical weather conditions through the estimation of the signal-to-noise ratios (S/N) of the controllable variables. Moreover, a kinetic law that included the explicit dependence on the local volumetric rate of photon absorption (LVRPA) was used. The radiant field was estimated by joining the Six Flux Model (SFM) with a solar emission model based on clarity index (KC), whereas the mass balance was coupled to the hydrodynamic equations, corresponding to the turbulent regime. For scaling-up purposes, the ratio of the total area-to-total-pollutant volume (AT/VT) was varied for observing the effect of this parameter on the overall plant performance. The Taguchi’s experimental design results showed that the best combination of initial pH and catalyst load was 9 and 0.6 g L−1, respectively. Also, full-scale plants would require far fewer ratios of AT/VT than for pilot or intermediate-scale ones. This information may be beneficial for reducing assembling costs of photocatalytic reactors scaling-up.
An Overview on the N-Heterocyclic Carbene-Catalyzed Aza-Benzoin Condensation Reaction
Authors: Albanese Domenico , Gaggero Nicoletta
Published: April 2018

The N-heterocyclic carbene(NHCs)-catalyzed aza-benzoin condensation reaction is an efficient, single step strategy which employs easily available substrates, such as aldehydes and imines, to provide α-amino ketones. The multifunctionality and high reactivity of α-amino ketones makes these structures attractive for medicinal chemistry and as precursors of a variety of amine derivatives. The different electrophilic characteristics of aldehydes and imines ensure a high regioselective reaction. Enantiomerically-enriched α-amino ketones have been synthesized through stereoselective couplings promoted by chiral N-heterocyclic carbenes. One-pot domino procedures, including an aza-benzoin step, allow valuable complex molecules to be accessed.
Preferential CO Oxidation in H2 over Au/La2O3/Al2O3 Catalysts: The Effect of the Catalyst Reduction Method
Authors: Lakshmanan Pandian , Park Eun Duck
Published: April 2018

We investigated the influence of the reduction method on the preferential oxidation of CO in H2 (CO-PROX) over Au/La2O3/Al2O3 catalysts. An Au/La2O3/Al2O3 sample, prepared using deposition–precipitation with urea, was reduced by chemical reduction with NaBH4 or glycerol. Several techniques, such as diffuse-reflectance infrared Fourier-transform spectroscopy after CO adsorption (CO-DRIFTS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the catalysts. Additionally, the catalysts were examined by in situ DRIFTS during methanol decomposition. The results reveal that the reduction method affects the average particle size and electronic state of gold, as well as the characteristics of the CO–Au0 interactions. The best CO-PROX performance was observed for the catalyst chemically reduced using NaBH4 with a NaBH4/Au molar ratio of 35. This catalyst contained gold particles with size of ~4 nm, for which the XPS binding energy was lower than that of metallic gold.
The Static Profile for a Floating Particle
Authors: Lee Jaesung
Published: April 2018

The equilibrium profile of a single floating particle is numerically investigated using transformed equations depending on the inclination angle of the deformed surface, which is governed by the Young–Laplace equation. The relationship between the depth far from the flat interface and the filling angle is derived from the force balance acting upon the particle. The Chebyshev nodes are employed as a discretization for the inclination angle and yield satisfactory results for computation. The computational results show that this is an efficient way to analyze the deformed surface around floating particles with an infinity boundary condition. The static profile of the free surface around the spherical particle is largely dependent on the density ratio and the contact angle.
Quantization and Bifurcation beyond Square-Integrable Wavefunctions
Authors: Yang Ciann-Dong , Kuo Chung-Hsuan
Published: April 2018

Probability interpretation is the cornerstone of standard quantum mechanics. To ensure the validity of the probability interpretation, wavefunctions have to satisfy the square-integrable (SI) condition, which gives rise to the well-known phenomenon of energy quantization in confined quantum systems. On the other hand, nonsquare-integrable (NSI) solutions to the Schrödinger equation are usually ruled out and have long been believed to be irrelevant to energy quantization. This paper proposes a quantum-trajectory approach to energy quantization by releasing the SI condition and considering both SI and NSI solutions to the Schrödinger equation. Contrary to our common belief, we find that both SI and NSI wavefunctions contribute to energy quantization. SI wavefunctions help to locate the bifurcation points at which energy has a step jump, while NSI wavefunctions form the flat parts of the stair-like distribution of the quantized energies. The consideration of NSI wavefunctions furthermore reveals a new quantum phenomenon regarding the synchronicity between the energy quantization process and the center-saddle bifurcation process.
Research on Stator Main Insulation Temperature Field of Air-Cooled Turbo-Generator after Main Insulation Shelling
Authors: Li Weili , Li Yong , Su Ying , Wang Purui , Liu Wenmao
Published: April 2018

The stator main insulation is the key component of turbo-generator, which is related to the thermal aging of turbo-generator. It is vital to accurately judge the generator aging by calculating the temperature distribution under main insulation normal operation and fault operation. In this paper, taking a 150 MW air-cooled turbo-generator as an example, the temperature field of the main insulation was studied after the stator main insulation shelling. Based on the finite element method, the stator temperature field after the main insulation shelling was calculated. The main insulation position of maximum temperature drop and the temperature distribution of the stator main insulation along the circumference and the axial direction were analyzed. At the same time, with the shelling gap of main insulation increases, the temperature distribution between shelling gap δ = 0.5 mm and δ = 1.0 mm was compared. The results can provide a theory for fault monitoring and diagnostics of the large-scale turbine generator.
Frequency Analysis of Failure Scenarios from Shale Gas Development
Authors: Abualfaraj Noura , Gurian Patrick L. , Olson Mira S.
Published: April 2018

This study identified and prioritized potential failure scenarios for natural gas drilling operations through an elicitation of people who work in the industry. A list of twelve failure scenarios of concern was developed focusing on specific events that may occur during the shale gas extraction process involving an operational failure or a violation of regulations. Participants prioritized the twelve scenarios based on their potential impact on the health and welfare of the general public, potential impact on worker safety, how well safety guidelines protect against their occurrence, and how frequently they occur. Illegal dumping of flowback water, while rated as the least frequently occurring scenario, was considered the scenario least protected by safety controls and the one of most concern to the general public. In terms of worker safety, the highest concern came from improper or inadequate use of personal protective equipment (PPE). While safety guidelines appear to be highly protective regarding PPE usage, inadequate PPE is the most directly witnessed failure scenario. Spills of flowback water due to equipment failure are of concern both with regards to the welfare of the general public and worker safety as they occur more frequently than any other scenario examined in this study.
Association of Insulin Resistance with Bone Strength and Bone Turnover in Menopausal Chinese-Singaporean Women without Diabetes
Authors: Kalimeri Maria , Leek Francesca , Wang Nan Xin , Koh Huann Rong , Roy Nicole C. , Cameron-Smith David , Kruger Marlena C. , Henry Christiani Jeyakumar , Totman John J.
Published: April 2018

Insulin resistance (IR) is accompanied by increased areal or volumetric bone mineral density (aBMD or vBMD), but also higher fracture risk. Meanwhile, imbalances in bone health biomarkers affect insulin production. This study investigates the effect of IR on proximal femur and lumbar spine BMD, femoral neck bending, compressive and impact strength indices (Composite Strength Indices) and circulating levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH), C-telopeptide of Type I collagen (CTx-1) and 25(OH) Vitamin D3, in a cohort of 97 healthy, non-obese, menopausal Chinese-Singaporean women. Lumbar spine aBMD was inversely associated with IR and dependent on lean body mass (LBM) and age. No such associations were found for vBMD of the third lumbar vertebra, aBMD and vBMD of the proximal femur, or circulating levels of PTH, CTx-1 and 25(OH) Vitamin D3. Composite Strength Indices were inversely associated with IR and independent of LBM, but after adjusting for fat mass and age, this association remained valid only for the impact strength index. Composite Strength Indices were significantly lower in participants with a high degree of IR. Our findings on IR and Composite Strength Indices relationships were in agreement with previous studies on different cohorts, but those on IR and BMD associations were not.
Spatial Heterogeneity, Scale, Data Character and Sustainable Transport in the Big Data Era
Authors: Jiang Bin
Published: April 2018

In light of the emergence of big data, I have advocated and argued for a paradigm shift from[...]
Carnosol Increases Skeletal Muscle Cell Glucose Uptake via AMPK-Dependent GLUT4 Glucose Transporter Translocation
Authors: Vlavcheski Filip , Baron David , Vlachogiannis Ioannis A. , MacPherson Rebecca E. K. , Tsiani Evangelia
Published: April 2018

Skeletal muscle is a major insulin-target tissue and plays an important role in glucose homeostasis. Insulin action in muscle activates the phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway causing the translocation of intracellularly stored GLUT4 glucose transporters to the plasma membrane and increased glucose uptake. Impaired insulin action in muscle results in insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Activation of the energy sensor AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) increases muscle glucose uptake and the use of AMPK activators is viewed as an effective strategy to combat insulin resistance. Rosemary extract (RE) has been shown to stimulate muscle AMPK and glucose uptake, but the exact components responsible for these effects are unknown. In the current study, we investigated the effect of carnosol, a RE polyphenol, in L6 rat muscle cells. Carnosol stimulated glucose uptake in L6 myotubes in a dose- and time-dependent manner, did not affect Akt, increased AMPK phosphorylation and plasma membrane GLUT4 levels. The carnosol-stimulated glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation was significantly reduced by the AMPK inhibitor compound C (CC). Our study is the first to show an AMPK-dependent increase in muscle glucose uptake by carnosol. Carnosol has potential as a glucose homeostasis regulating agent and deserves further study.
Animal Models of the Neuromuscular Junction, Vitally Informative for Understanding Function and the Molecular Mechanisms of Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes
Authors: Webster Richard G.
Published: April 2018

The neuromuscular junction is the point of contact between motor nerve and skeletal muscle, its vital role in muscle function is reliant on the precise location and function of many proteins. Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a heterogeneous group of disorders of neuromuscular transmission with 30 or more implicated proteins. The use of animal models has been instrumental in determining the specific role of many CMS-related proteins. The mouse neuromuscular junction (NMJ) has been extensively studied in animal models of CMS due to its amenability for detailed electrophysiological and histological investigations and relative similarity to human NMJ. As well as their use to determine the precise molecular mechanisms of CMS variants, where an animal model accurately reflects the human phenotype they become useful tools for study of therapeutic interventions. Many of the animal models that have been important in deconvolving the complexities of neuromuscular transmission and revealing the molecular mechanisms of disease are highlighted.
Nicotine Alters Estrogen Receptor-Beta-Regulated Inflammasome Activity and Exacerbates Ischemic Brain Damage in Female Rats
Authors: D’Adesky Nathan D. , De Rivero Vaccari Juan Pablo , Bhattacharya Pallab , Schatz Marc , Perez-Pinzon Miguel A. , Bramlett Helen M. , Raval Ami P.
Published: April 2018

Smoking is a preventable risk factor for stroke and smoking-derived nicotine exacerbates post-ischemic damage via inhibition of estrogen receptor beta (ER-β) signaling in the brain of female rats. ER-β regulates inflammasome activation in the brain. Therefore, we hypothesized that chronic nicotine exposure activates the inflammasome in the brain, thus exacerbating ischemic brain damage in female rats. To test this hypothesis, adult female Sprague-Dawley rats (6–7 months old) were exposed to nicotine (4.5 mg/kg/day) or saline for 16 days. Subsequently, brain tissue was collected for immunoblot analysis. In addition, another set of rats underwent transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO; 90 min) with or without nicotine exposure. One month after tMCAO, histopathological analysis revealed a significant increase in infarct volume in the nicotine-treated group (64.24 ± 7.3 mm3; mean ± SEM; n = 6) compared to the saline-treated group (37.12 ± 7.37 mm3; n = 7, p < 0.05). Immunoblot analysis indicated that nicotine increased cortical protein levels of caspase-1, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC) and pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β by 88% (p < 0.05), 48% (p < 0.05) and 149% (p < 0.05), respectively, when compared to the saline-treated group. Next, using an in vitro model of ischemia in organotypic slice cultures, we tested the hypothesis that inhibition of nicotine-induced inflammasome activation improves post-ischemic neuronal survival. Accordingly, slices were exposed to nicotine (100 ng/mL; 14–16 days) or saline, followed by treatment with the inflammasome inhibitor isoliquiritigenin (ILG; 24 h) prior to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD; 45 min). Quantification of neuronal death demonstrated that inflammasome inhibition significantly decreased nicotine-induced ischemic neuronal death. Overall, this study shows that chronic nicotine exposure exacerbates ischemic brain damage via activation of the inflammasome in the brain of female rats.
Knockout of Pannexin-1 Induces Hearing Loss
Authors: Chen Jin , Liang Chun , Zong Liang , Zhu Yan , Zhao Hong-Bo
Published: April 2018

Mutations of gap junction connexin genes induce a high incidence of nonsyndromic hearing loss. Pannexin genes also encode gap junctional proteins in vertebrates. Recent studies demonstrated that Pannexin-1 (Panx1) deficiency in mice and mutation in humans are also associated with hearing loss. So far, several Panx1 knockout (KO) mouse lines were established. In general, these Panx1 KO mouse lines demonstrate consistent phenotypes in most aspects, including hearing loss. However, a recent study reported that a Panx1 KO mouse line, which was created by Genentech Inc., had no hearing loss as measured by the auditory brainstem response (ABR) threshold at low-frequency range (<24 kHz). Here, we used multiple auditory function tests and re-examined hearing function in the Genentech Panx1 (Gen-Panx1) KO mouse. We found that ABR thresholds in the Gen-Panx1 KO mouse were significantly increased, in particular, in the high-frequency region. Moreover, consistent with the increase in ABR threshold, distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) and cochlear microphonics (CM), which reflect active cochlear amplification and auditory receptor current, respectively, were significantly reduced. These data demonstrated that the Gen-Panx1 KO mouse has hearing loss and further confirmed that Panx1 deficiency can cause deafness.
A Nuclear Emulsion Detector for the Muon Radiography of a Glacier Structure
Authors: Ariga Akitaka , Ariga Tomoko , Ereditato Antonio , Käser Samuel , Lechmann Alessandro , Mair David , Nishiyama Ryuichi , Pistillo Ciro , Scampoli Paola , Schlunegger Fritz , Vladymyrov Mykhailo
Published: April 2018

Cosmic ray muons can be used to image the interior of geological sites provided that one employs detectors able to operate in the specific harsh conditions of the mountain environment. We designed and developed a detector exploiting the nuclear emulsion technique to assess the bedrock profile underneath an alpine glacier. Nuclear emulsions do not need any electric power supply or maintenance and allow for the measurement of the muon flux and direction behind a large target volume. The 3D density distribution of the material traversed by muons can then be assessed, bringing relevant information on the shape of the boundary between the glacial ice and the underlying bedrock. This new methodology in the geological field was recently tested in a campaign of measurements in the Jungfrau region of the central Swiss Alps. It was shown that the bedrock surface position can be measured with a resolution of about 5 % when the traversed target is about 100 m thick. Characteristics and performance of the method are reported here and demonstrate that muon radiography based on emulsion detectors represents a powerful tool for the geological study of glaciers.
Synthesis and Characterization of Injectable Hydrogels with Varying Collagen–Chitosan–Thymosin β4 Composition for Myocardial Infarction Therapy
Authors: Shaghiera Achmad , Widiyanti Prihartini , Yusuf Helmy
Published: April 2018

Thirty percent of global mortalities are caused by cardiovascular disease, and 54% of the aforementioned amount is instigated by ischemic heart disease that triggered myocardial infarction. Myocardial infarction is due to blood flow cessation in certain coronary arteries that causes lack of oxygen (ischemia) and stimulates myocardial necrosis. One of the methods to treat myocardial infarction consists in injecting cells or active biomolecules and biomaterials into heart infarction locations. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of a collagen–chitosan-based hydrogel with variations in its chitosan composition. The prepared hydrogels contained thymosin β4 (Tβ4), a 43-amino acid peptide with angiogenic and cardioprotective properties which can act as a bioactive molecule for the treatment of myocardial infarction. A morphological structure analysis showed that the hydrogels lacked interconnecting pores. All samples were not toxic on the basis of a cytotoxicity test. A histopathological anatomy test showed that the collagen–chitosan–thymosin β4 hydrogels could stimulate angiogenesis and epicardial heart cell migration, as demonstrated by the evaluation of the number of blood vessels and the infiltration extent of myofibroblasts.