bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Powder Pressed Cuprous Iodide (CuI) as A Hole Transporting Material for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Uthayaraj Siva , Karunarathne D. , Kumara G. , Murugathas Thanihaichelvan , Rasalingam Shivatharsiny , Rajapakse R. , Ravirajan Punniamoorthy , Velauthapillai Dhayalan
Published: June 2019

This study focuses on employing cuprous iodide (CuI) as a hole-transporting material (HTM) in fabricating highly efficient perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The PSCs were made in air with either CuI or 2,2′,7,7′-Tetrakis[N,N-di(4-methoxyphenyl)amino]-9,9′-spirobifluorene (spiro-OMeTAD) as HTMs. A simple and novel pressing method was employed for incorporating CuI powder layer between perovskite layer and Pt top-contact to fabricate devices with CuI, while spiro-OMeTAD was spin-coated between perovskite layer and thermally evaporated Au top-contact to fabricate devices with spiro-OMeTAD. Under illuminations of 100 mW/cm2 with an air mass (AM) 1.5 filter in air, the average short-circuit current density (JSC) of the CuI devices was over 24 mA/cm2, which is marginally higher than that of spiro-OMeTAD devices. Higher JSC of the CuI devices can be attributed to high hole-mobility of CuI that minimizes the electron-hole recombination. However, the average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the CuI devices were lower than that of spiro-OMeTAD devices due to slightly lower open-circuit voltage (VOC) and fill factor (FF). This is probably due to surface roughness of CuI powder. However, optimized devices with solvent-free powder pressed CuI as HTM show a promising efficiency of over 8.0 % under illuminations of 1 sun (100 mW/cm2) with an air mass 1.5 filter in air, which is the highest among the reported efficiency values for PSCs fabricated in an open environment with CuI as HTM.
Effect of Chitosan- and Alginate-Based Coatings Enriched with Cinnamon Essential Oil Microcapsules to Improve the Postharvest Quality of Mangoes
Authors: Yin Cheng , Huang Chongxing , Wang Jun , Liu Ying , Lu Peng , Huang Lijie
Published: June 2019

During this study, fresh mangoes were packed into multilayer coatings made from chitosan containing cinnamon essential oil microcapsules and alginate solutions that were alternately deposited on the mango surfaces by electrostatic interaction. We then compared the physical and chemical indexes to examine the changes in the mangoes during 14 d of storage. The results showed that the microcapsules prepared in the experiment were of uniform size, with the sustained release of essential oil exceeding 168 h. Compared with uncoated mangoes, the mangoes coated with the coatings could effectively inhibit the decrease of the titratable acid, soluble solids, and vitamin C contents; slow down the increase of the weight loss and pH; delay the appearance of mango respiration peaks; and preserve the firmness at storage conditions of 25 °C and 50% RH. Our findings revealed that mangoes without treatment showed losses in their edible and commercial value after 14 days in storage, and the mangoes coated with five layers still retained food and commercial value. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy images of the coatings showed that they had distinct layers and were of good uniformity and tight binding, and they also had good adhesion to the mango surface. These findings provide important insights into the use of coatings for the packaging of fruits during storage, which is essential for promoting the application of coatings for packaging preservation without big cost and expensive equipment.
Enhanced Multiferroic Properties of YFeO3 by Doping with Bi3+
Authors: Rosales-González Omar , Sánchez-De Jesús Félix , Pedro-García Fernando , Cortés-Escobedo Claudia Alicia , Ramírez-Cardona Màrius , Bolarín-Miró Ana María
Published: June 2019

Tthe present work studied the cationic substitution of Y3+ by Bi3+ on the crystal structure of orthorhombic YFeO3 and its effect over magnetic, dielectric and electric properties of multiferroic yttrium orthoferrite. Stoichiometric mixtures of Y2O3, Fe2O3 and Bi2O3 were mixed and milled for 5 h using a ball to powder weight ratio of 10:1 by high-energy ball milling. The obtained powders were pressed at 1500 MPa and sintered at 700 °C for 2 h. The test samples were characterized at room temperature by X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and impedance spectroscopy (IS). The X-ray diffraction patterns disclosed a maximum solubility of 30 % mol. of Bi3+ into the orthorhombic YFeO3. For higher concentrations, a transformation from orthorhombic to garnet structure was produced, obtaining partially Y3Fe5O12 phase. The substitution of Bi3+ in Y3+ sites promoted a distortion into the orthorhombic structure and modified Fe-O-Fe angles and octahedral tilt. In addition, it promoted a ferromagnetic (FM) order, which was attributed to both the crystal distortion and Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction. For doped samples, an increase in real permittivity values was observed, and reduced with the increase of frequency. This in good agreement with the Maxwell-Wagner effect.
Pricing Decision within an Inventory Model for Complementary and Substitutable Products
Authors: Taleizadeh Ata Allah , Babaei Masoumeh Sadat , Sana Shib Sankar , Sarkar Biswajit
Published: June 2019

A combination of substitutable and complementary products is very important for any business industry to make all-round profit from different aspects. How deterioration affects complementary products or substitutable products is discussed in this study. This study investigates the pricing and inventory decisions for complementary and substitutable items which are deteriorating in nature. Four models are analyzed where the demand of one product is dependent upon the selling price and the price of another product. This paper tries to compute the optimum prices and order quantities to optimize the total profit, which is the main aim. Theoretically, this model is solved by a classical optimization method. Numerical examples demonstrate the applicability of this model. Results conclude that the total profit is dependent on the degree of substitutability and complementarity. A sensitivity analysis of optimal solutions is given to test the stability of the proposed model.
Solving Fuzzy Linear Programming Problems with Fuzzy Decision Variables
Authors: Wu Hsien-Chung
Published: June 2019

The numerical method for solving the fuzzy linear programming problems with fuzzy decision variables is proposed in this paper. The difficulty for solving this kind of problem is that the decision variables are assumed to be nonnegative fuzzy numbers instead of nonnegative real numbers. In other words, the decision variables are assumed to be membership functions. One of the purposes of this paper is to derive the analytic formula of error estimation regarding the approximate optimal solution. On the other hand, the existence of optimal solutions is also studied in this paper. Finally we present two numerical examples to demonstrate the usefulness of the numerical method.
Correction: Wang, M. and Yin, S. Some Liouville Theorems on Finsler Manifolds. Mathematics, 2019, 7, 351
Authors: Yin Songting , Wang Minqiu
Published: June 2019

The authors are sorry to report that the proof of case III of Theorem 1 [...]
Minimal Wave Speed in a Competitive Integrodifference System without Comparison Principle
Authors: Li Luping , Kang Shugui , Kong Lili , Chen Huiqin
Published: June 2019

We investigate the traveling wave solutions of a competitive integrodifference system without comparison principle. In the earlier conclusions, a threshold of wave speed is defined while the existence or nonexistence of traveling wave solutions remains open when the wave speed is the threshold. By constructing generalized upper and lower solutions, we confirm the existence of traveling wave solutions when the wave speed is the threshold. Our conclusion completes the known results and shows the different decay behavior of traveling wave solutions compared with the case of large wave speeds.
A Review of Second- and Third-line Infertility Treatments and Supporting Evidence in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Costello Michael F. , Garad Rhonda M. , Hart Roger , Homer Hayden , Johnson Louise , Jordan Cailin , Mocanu Edgar , Qiao Jie , Rombauts Luk , Teede Helena J. , Vanky Eszter , Venetis Christos A. , Ledger William L.
Published: June 2019

In clomiphene-citrate-resistant anovulatory women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and no other infertility factors, either metformin combined with clomiphene citrate or gonadotrophins could be used as a second-line pharmacological therapy, although gonadotrophins are more effective. Gonadotrophins could also be used as a second-line pharmacological therapy in anovulatory women with PCOS and clomiphene-citrate-failure. Laparoscopic ovarian surgery can also be used as a second-line therapy for ovulation induction in anovulatory women with clomiphene-citrate-resistant PCOS and no other infertility factors. The usefulness of letrozole as a second-line pharmacological treatment for ovulation induction in clomiphene-citrate-resistant women with PCOS requires further research. In terms of improving fertility, both pharmacological anti-obesity agents and bariatric surgery should be considered an experimental therapy in anovulatory women with PCOS and no other infertility factors. Where first- or second-line ovulation induction therapies have failed, in vitro fertilization (IVF)/ intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) could be offered as a third-line therapy in women with PCOS in the absence of an absolute indication for IVF/ICSI. For women with PCOS undergoing IVF/ICSI treatment, the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist protocol is preferred and an elective frozen embryo transfer strategy could be considered. In assisted conception units with sufficient expertise, in-vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes could be offered to women with PCOS.
Research on Contact State and Its Effect on Forming Precision in Uniform-Contact Stretch Forming Based on Loading at Multi-Position
Authors: Sun Lirong , Cai Zhongyi , Li Xiangji
Published: June 2019

Uniform-contact stretch forming based on loading at multi-position (UC-SF) was designed to substitute for conventional stretch forming (C-SF) in the manufacturing of qualified three-dimensional surface parts of a specified shape. Since the integral rigid clamps are replaced by discrete clamps, the sheet metal can be bent in a transverse direction (perpendicular to the stretching direction), and the sheet metal can be automatically warped to the die surface during the loading process. In this paper, finite element numerical simulations were performed to research the contact state evolution and its effect on forming precision by two kinds of loading modes (UC-SF and C-SF). The evolutions of contact state for spherical and saddle-shaped parts were analyzed in different steps, and the results reflect that, in UC-SF, the contact region of curved surface parts is gradually extended in a long strip, and the effective formed regions of the final parts can be in contact with the die surface. However, in C-SF, it is difficult for the final parts to be completely in contact with the die surface, especially spherical parts of a large curvature. Moreover, it is found that the noncontact region of the saddle-shaped part is susceptible to wrinkling in C-SF. Conversely, in UC-SF, the sheet metal can be constrained by contact with a die surface, such that the noncontact region and wrinkle defect disappear and high-precision parts are formed. Finally, stretch forming experiments were carried out and the perfect curved surface part was formed; thus, the experimental results verify the feasibility and effectiveness of UC-SF.
Chemical Profile and Safety Assessment of a Food-Grade Acetogenin-Enriched Antimicrobial Extract from Avocado Seed
Authors: Rodríguez-Sánchez Dariana G. , Pacheco Adriana , Villarreal-Lara Raúl , Ramos-González Martín R. , Ramos-Parra Perla A. , Granados-Principal Sergio , Díaz de la Garza Rocío I. , García-Rivas Gerardo , Hernández-Brenes Carmen
Published: June 2019

Acetogenins are bioactive fatty acid derivatives found in avocado tissues. Their efficacy as antimicrobials has been documented and initiated interest to use them as replacements of synthetic food additives. The present work focused on evaluation of multiple analytical methodologies for detection and quantification of organic solids present in a food-grade acetogenin-enriched extract (Avosafe®), and on its safety evaluations using bacterial reverse mutation (AMES) tests and acute oral toxicity to rat assays. Results confirmed chemical structures of two acetogenins as present in Avosafe® (AcO-avocadyne-(0) and AcO-avocadiene B-(3)), and together with seven other previously known compounds, quantified 94.74 ± 5.77% w/w of its solids as acetogenins. Safety evaluations indicated that Avosafe® was non-mutagenic and had an acute median lethal oral dose (LD50) to rats higher than the maximum concentration tested (>2000 mg·kg−1), with no signs of macroscopic abnormalities in organs. Mean body weight and hematological and biochemical parameters were normal after 14 days of a single oral dose of 2000 mg·kg−1. The results advance scientific information on the safety of avocado seed acetogenins and also generate new knowledge on profiles and concentrations of individual acetogenins found in avocado tissues (seed, pulp, and leaves) and in Avosafe®.
Anthocyanin Profile of Elderberry Juice: A Natural-Based Bioactive Colouring Ingredient with Potential Food Application
Authors: da Silva Ricardo F. R. , Barreira João C. M. , Heleno Sandrina A. , Barros Lillian , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R.
Published: June 2019

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.) is a widely disseminated plant that produces bright black berries containing high quantities of anthocyanins, acknowledged for their bioactivity and dye capacity. Besides other applications, anthocyanins might be employed as natural colouring agents to reduce/eliminate the use of artificial dyes, while providing positive effects on consumers’ health. Herein, the anthocyanins profile of elderberry juice was characterised by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn. In addition, its antioxidant capacity and cytotoxicity were also evaluated. As a proof-of-concept of its colouring capacity, elderberry juice was added (different percentages) to a highly appreciated and consumed pastry product (croissant) and compared with a commercial dye (black carrot). In general, the nutritional properties of control and coloured croissants were similar, despite some individual differences in sugars and fatty acids. In turn, the appearance obtained with elderberry juice incorporation might be considered innovative, besides partially maintaining the anthocyanins content of fresh juice and showing considerable antioxidant activity.
Solvent Engineering for Intermediates Phase, All-Ambient-Air-Processed in Organic–Inorganic Hybrid Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Shi Lei , Hao Huiying , Dong Jingjing , Zhong Tingting , Zhang Chen , Hao Jiabin , Xing Jie , Liu Hao
Published: June 2019

Intermediate phase is considered an important aspect to deeply understand the crystallization procedure in the growth of high-quality perovskite layers by an anti-solvent technique. However, the moisture influence on the intermediate phase formation is not clear in air conditions as yet. In this work, pure (FA0.2MA1.8)Pb3X8(DMSO·DMF) intermediate phase was obtained in as-prepared perovskite film by spin-coating the precursor of co-solvent (DMSO and DMF) in an ambient air (RH20–30%). Moreover, the appropriate quantity of ethyl acetate (C4H8O2, EA) also controls the formation of pure intermediate phase. The uniform and homogeneous perovskite film was obtained after annealing this intermediate film. Therefore, the best power conversion efficiency (PCE) of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is 16.24% with an average PCE of 15.53%, of which almost 86% of its initial PCE was preserved after 30 days in air conditions. Besides, the steady-state output efficiency ups to 15.38% under continuous illumination. In addition, the PCE of large area device (100 mm2) reaches 11.11% with a little hysteresis effect. This work would give an orientation for PSCs production at the commercial level, which could lower the cost of fabricating the high efficiency PSCs.
Experimental Investigation on Micro Milling of Polyester/Halloysite Nano-Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Fu Guoyu , Huo Dehong , Shyha Islam , Pancholi Ketan , Saharudin Mohd Shahneel
Published: June 2019

Efficient machining of the polyester nanocomposite components requires a better understanding of machinability characteristics of such material, which has become an urgent requirement for modern industrial production. In this research, the micro-milling of polyester/halloysite nano-clay (0.1, 0.3, 0.7, 1.0 wt%) nanocomposites were carried out and the outcomes in terms of tool wear, cutting force, the size effect, surface morphology, and surface roughness were compared with those for plain polyester. In order to accomplish the machining of the material in ductile mode, the required feed per tooth was found to be below 0.3 µm. The degree of surface breakage was also found to decrease in ductile mode. A maximum flank wear VB of 0.012 mm after removing 196 mm3 of workpiece material was measured.
Diurnal Variation of Markers for Cholesterol Synthesis, Cholesterol Absorption, and Bile Acid Synthesis: A Systematic Review and the Bispebjerg Study of Diurnal Variations
Authors: Schroor Maite M. , Sennels Henriette P. , Fahrenkrug Jan , Jørgensen Henrik L. , Plat Jogchum , Mensink Ronald P.
Published: June 2019

Human studies have shown diurnal rhythms of cholesterol and bile acid synthesis, but a better understanding of the role of the circadian system in cholesterol homeostasis is needed for the development of targeted interventions to improve metabolic health. Therefore, we performed a systematic literature search on the diurnal rhythms of cholesterol synthesis and absorption markers and of bile acid synthesis markers. We also examined the diurnal rhythms of the cholesterol synthesis markers lathosterol and desmosterol, and of the cholesterol absorption markers cholestanol, campesterol, and sitosterol in serum samples from the Bispebjerg study. These samples were collected every three hours over a 24-h period in healthy males (n = 24) who consumed low-fat meals. The systematic search identified sixteen papers that had examined the diurnal rhythms of the cholesterol synthesis markers lathosterol (n = 3), mevalonate (n = 9), squalene (n = 2), or the bile acid synthesis marker 7α-hydroxy-4-cholesten-3-one (C4) (n = 4). Results showed that lathosterol, mevalonate, and squalene had a diurnal rhythm with nocturnal peaks, while C4 had a diurnal rhythm with daytime peaks. Furthermore, cosinor analyses of the serum samples showed a significant diurnal rhythm for lathosterol (cosinor p < 0.001), but not for desmosterol, campesterol, sitosterol, and cholestanol (cosinor p > 0.05). In conclusion, cholesterol synthesis and bile acid synthesis have a diurnal rhythm, though no evidence for a diurnal rhythm of cholesterol absorption was found under highly standardised conditions. More work is needed to further explore the influence of external factors on the diurnal rhythms regulating cholesterol homeostasis.
Surface Lattice Resonances in THz Metamaterials
Authors: Tan Thomas CaiWei , Plum Eric , Singh Ranjan
Published: June 2019

Diffraction of light in periodic structures is observed in a variety of systems including atoms, solid state crystals, plasmonic structures, metamaterials, and photonic crystals. In metamaterials, lattice diffraction appears across microwave to optical frequencies due to collective Rayleigh scattering of periodically arranged structures. Light waves diffracted by these periodic structures can be trapped along the metamaterial surface resulting in the excitation of surface lattice resonances, which are mediated by the structural eigenmodes of the metamaterial cavity. This has brought about fascinating opportunities such as lattice-induced transparency, strong nearfield confinement, and resonant field enhancement and line-narrowing of metamaterial structural resonances through lowering of radiative losses. In this review, we describe the mechanisms and implications of metamaterial-engineered surface lattice resonances and lattice-enhanced field confinement in terahertz metamaterials. These universal properties of surface lattice resonances in metamaterials have significant implications for the design of resonant metamaterials, including ultrasensitive sensors, lasers, and slow-light devices across the electromagnetic spectrum.
Inhibition of NO Biosynthetic Activities during Rehydration of Ramalina farinacea Lichen Thalli Provokes Increases in Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Expósito Joana R. , Martín San Román Sara , Barreno Eva , Reig-Armiñana José , García-Breijo Francisco José , Catalá Myriam
Published: June 2019

Lichens are poikilohydrous symbiotic associations between a fungus, photosynthetic partners, and bacteria. They are tolerant to repeated desiccation/rehydration cycles and adapted to anhydrobiosis. Nitric oxide (NO) is a keystone for stress tolerance of lichens; during lichen rehydration, NO limits free radicals and lipid peroxidation but no data on the mechanisms of its synthesis exist. The aim of this work is to characterize the synthesis of NO in the lichen Ramalina farinacea using inhibitors of nitrate reductase (NR) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), tungstate, and NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), respectively. Tungstate suppressed the NO level in the lichen and caused an increase in malondialdehyde during rehydration in the hyphae of cortex and in phycobionts, suggesting that a plant-like NR is involved in the NO production. Specific activity of NR in R. farinacea was 91 μU/mg protein, a level comparable to those in the bryophyte Physcomitrella patens and Arabidopsis thaliana. L-NAME treatment did not suppress the NO level in the lichens. On the other hand, NADPH-diaphorase activity cytochemistry showed a possible presence of a NOS-like activity in the microalgae where it is associated with cytoplasmatic vesicles. These data provide initial evidence that NO synthesis in R. farinacea involves NR.
Influence of Starch Composition and Molecular Weight on Physicochemical Properties of Biodegradable Films
Authors: Domene-López Daniel , García-Quesada Juan Carlos , Martin-Gullon Ignacio , Montalbán Mercedes G.
Published: June 2019

Thermoplastic starch (TPS) films are considered one of the most promising alternatives for replacing synthetic polymers in the packaging field due to the starch biodegradability, low cost, and abundant availability. However, starch granule composition, expressed in terms of amylose content and phosphate monoesters, and molecular weight of starch clearly affects some film properties. In this contribution, biodegradable TPS films made from potato, corn, wheat, and rice starch were prepared using the casting technique. The effect of the grain structure of each starch on microstructure, transparency, hydration properties, crystallinity, and mechanical properties of the films, was evaluated. Potato starch films were the most transparent and corn starch films the most opaque. All the films had homogeneous internal structures—highly amorphous and with no pores, both of which point to a good starch gelatinization process. The maximum tensile strength (4.48–8.14 MPa), elongation at break (35.41–100.34%), and Young’s modulus (116.42–294.98 MPa) of the TPS films were clearly influenced by the amylose content, molecular weight, and crystallinity of the film. In this respect, wheat and corn starch films, are the most resistant and least stretchable, while rice starch films are the most extensible but least resistant. These findings show that all the studied starches can be considered suitable for manufacturing resistant and flexible films with similar properties to those of synthetic low-density polyethylene (LDPE), by a simple and environmentally-friendly process.
Enhanced Thermal and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Synthetic/Natural Hybrid Composites with Graphene Nanoplateletes
Authors: Jesuarockiam Naveen , Jawaid Mohammad , Zainudin Edi Syams , Thariq Hameed Sultan Mohamed , Yahaya Ridwan
Published: June 2019

The aim of the present research work is to enhance the thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of Kevlar/Cocos nucifera sheath (CS)/epoxy composites with graphene nano platelets (GNP). Laminates were fabricated through the hand lay-up method followed by hot pressing. GNP at different wt.% (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75) were incorporated with epoxy resin through ultra-sonication. Kevlar/CS composites with different weight ratios (100/0, 75/25, 50/50, 25/75, 0/100) were fabricated while maintaining a fiber/matrix weight ratio at 45/55. Thermal degradation and viscoelastic properties were evaluated using thermogravimetric analysys (TGA), differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) analysis, and a dynamic mechanical analyser (DMA). The obtained results revealed that Kevlar/CS (25/75) hybrid composites at 0.75 wt.% of GNP exhibited similar thermal stability compared to Kevlar/epoxy (100/0) composites at 0 wt.% of GNP. It has been corroborated with DSC observation that GNP act as a thermal barrier. However, DMA results showed that the Kevlar/CS (50/50) hybrid composites at 0.75 wt.% of GNP exhibited almost equal viscoelastic properties compared to Kevlar/epoxy (100/0) composites at 0 wt.% GNP due to effective crosslinking, which improves the stress transfer rate. Hence, this research proved that Kevlar can be efficiently (50%) replaced with CS at an optimal GNP loading for structural applications.
Hydrogel Tissue Expanders for Stomatology. Part II. Poly(styrene-maleic anhydride) Hydrogels
Authors: Hrib Jakub , Chylikova Krumbholcova Eva , Duskova-Smrckova Miroslava , Hobzova Radka , Sirc Jakub , Hruby Martin , Michalek Jiri , Hodan Jiri , Lesny Petr , Smucler Roman
Published: June 2019

Self-inflating soft tissue expanders represent a valuable modality in reconstructive surgery. For this purpose, particularly synthetic hydrogels that increase their volume by swelling in aqueous environment are used. The current challenge in the field is to deliver a material with a suitable protracted swelling response, ideally with an induction period (for sutured wound healing) followed by a linear increase in volume lasting several days for required tissue reconstruction. Here, we report on synthesis, swelling, thermal, mechanical and biological properties of novel hydrogel tissue expanders based on poly(styrene-alt-maleic anhydride) copolymers covalently crosslinked with p-divinylbenzene. The hydrogels exerted hydrolysis-driven swelling response with induction period over the first two days with minimal volume change and gradual volume growth within 30 days in buffered saline solution. Their final swollen volume reached more than 14 times the dry volume with little dependence on the crosslinker content. The mechanical coherence of samples during swelling and in their fully swollen state was excellent, the compression modulus of elasticity being between 750 and 850 kPa. In vitro cell culture experiments and in vivo evaluation in mice models showed excellent biocompatibility and suitable swelling responses meeting thus the application requirements as soft tissue expanders.
The Effect of Various Nanofluids on Absorption Intensification of CO2/SO2 in a Single-Bubble Column
Authors: Karamian Soroush , Mowla Dariush , Esmaeilzadeh Feridun
Published: June 2019

Application of nanoparticles in aqueous base-fluids for intensification of absorption rate is an efficient method for absorption progress within the system incorporating bubble-liquid process. In this research, SO2 and CO2 were separately injected as single raising bubbles containing nanofluids to study the impact of nanoparticle effects on acidic gases absorption. In order to do this, comprehensive experimental studies were done. These works also tried to investigate the effect of different nanofluids such as water/Al2O3 or water/Fe2O3 or water/SiO2 on the absorption rate. The results showed that the absorption of CO2 and SO2 in nanofluids significantly increases up to 77 percent in comparison with base fluid. It was also observed that the type of gas molecules and nanoparticles determine the mechanism of mass transfer enhancement by nanofluids. Additionally, our findings indicated that the values of mass transfer coefficient of SO2 in water/Al2O3, water/Fe2O3 and water/SiO2 nanofluids are, respectively, 50%, 42% and 71% more than those of SO2 in pure water ( k L SO 2 − w a t e r = 1.45 × 10 − 4   m / s ). Moreover, the values for CO2 in above nanofluids were, respectively, 117%, 103% and 88% more than those of CO2 in water alone ( k L CO 2 − w a t e r = 1.03 × 10 − 4   m / s ). Finally, this study tries to offer a new comprehensive correlation for mass transfer coefficient and absorption rate prediction.
Challenges and Obstacles for Syrian Refugee Women in the Turkish Labor Market
Authors: Ozturk Lamiha , Serin Zehra Vildan , Altınoz Hamdiye
Published: June 2019

The civil war in Syria resulted in the displacement of 5.7 million civilians between 2011 and 2018. Approximately four million of these civilians started to live in Turkey as refugees trying to integrate themselves into the labor market. The present research is a case study regarding the obstacles faced by Syrian refugee women’s access to the labor market in Şanlıurfa, Turkey. To this end, a survey was carried out on a population of 341 migrants under a temporary protection regime comprising 207 women. The results obtained indicate numerous problems and show the needs of Syrian women. For example, Turkish language fluency and low education and skill levels are among the largest barriers for employment. Moreover, the opacity of bureaucratic procedures and non-computerized work permit applications are shown to be another slowing factor in this process. Compared with their home countries, Syrian women are more active in Turkey. However, a majority is involved in precarious and seasonal jobs. The problems of childcare and the feudal (male-dominated) nature of many homes deter Syrian women from contributing economically, and despite being a generally young population, most hold seasonal jobs, which leave little opportunity for career development. It is recommended that, to overcome structural barriers in accessing the labor market, Syrian refugee women need long-term training rather than restrictive policies.
Hydration Status and Fluid Needs of Division I Female Collegiate Athletes Exercising Indoors and Outdoors
Authors: Olzinski Stephanie , Beaumont Joshua , Toledo Meynard , Yudell Amber , Johnston Carol S. , Wardenaar Floris C.
Published: June 2019

The purpose was to determine differences in acute and chronic hydration status in female student-athletes (n = 40) practicing in moderate, dry conditions (17–25 °C, 30–57% humidity) indoors and outdoors. Body weight and urine samples were recorded before and after exercise as well as fluid intake. Sweat rates expressed as median and interquartile range did not differ, but fluid intake was significantly higher during indoor (0.64 [0.50, 0.83] L/h) vs. outdoor conditions (0.51 [0.43, 0.63] L/h), p = 0.001. Fluid intake compensated for indoor sweat rate but not outdoors. When exercising indoors, 49% of the student-athletes reported urine specific gravity (USG) values >1.020, and 24% of the day after morning samples were scored ≥4 on the color chart rating. The percentages increased to 58% and 31%, respectively, when exercising outdoors (p > 0.05). Thus, fluid intake was higher indoors vs. outdoors but sweat rate did not differ among athletes. Yet, chronic hydration status was impaired in more than 50% of the student-athletes with a discrepancy between USG scores and urine color scores identifying underhydration. This suggest that 24-h fluid intake should be taken into account and that hydration protocols may need to be tailored individually based on urine USG values. Practice location (indoors vs. outdoors) may further complicate hydration protocols.
Experimental and Numerical Research on Utilizing Modified Silty Clay and Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) Board as the Subgrade Thermal Insulation Layer in a Seasonally Frozen Region, Northeast China
Authors: Li Qinglin , Wei Haibin , Zhou Peilei , Zhang Yangpeng , Han Leilei , Han Shuanye
Published: June 2019

For strengthening sustainability of subgrade life-cycle service performance and storing industry solid wastes in seasonally frozen regions, compared to previous research of modified silty clay (MC) which consisted of oil shale ash (OSA), fly ash (FA), and silty clay (SC), we identified for the first time, the variations in the thermal insulation capability of MC with different levels of dry density and moisture content. Taking into consideration the effects of 0–20 freeze-thaw (F-T) cycles by a laboratory test, and by the numerical simulation of coupling moisture-temperature, while considering the effects of F-T cycles, the thermal insulation capability of the MC board and the XPS board were studied quantitatively. The testing results show that the thermal conductivity of MC and SC gradually decreases as the number of F-T cycles increases, and that of the XPS board increases with the increased number of F-T cycles, and tend to be of a constant value of 0.061 W/m/K after 17 F-T cycles. The specific heat capacity of the solid particles of the MC, SC, and XPS board does not change regularly as their moisture content, and the number of F-T cycles change, and their variations are in the range of the test error (2%). Simulation results show that MC has the advantage of the thermal insulation property to reduce the frost-depth of 0.21 m, and the thermal insulation property of the composite layer consisting of the MC and XPS board is greater to reduce the frost-depth of 0.55 m, so that it can protect both the SC and sand gravel of the experimental road from the frost heave damage. The research methods and results are very significant in accurately evaluating the thermal insulation capacity and the sustainability of MC and the composite layer consisting of the MC and XPS board, strengthening the stability of the subgrade and increasing the availability of industrial waste.
Solar Decathlon Latin America and Caribbean: Comfort and the Balance between Passive and Active Design
Authors: Herrera-Limones Rafael , León-Rodríguez Ángel , López-Escamilla Álvaro
Published: June 2019

This article contains an overall analysis of the results obtained by the four highest scoring teams in the Solar Decathlon Latin America and Caribbean 2015 collegiate sustainable habitat competition. Considering that the prototypes developed were based on energy self-sufficiency when operational, it was considered necessary to propose this analysis based on the degree of suitability of each of these models based on their different performances from the perspective of comfort conditions. It was observed that the design of the prototypes did not manage to properly adjust the relationship between passive and active conditioning elements based on the location’s conditions. Accordingly, this article concludes that a balance of the two aforementioned conditioning modes recorded better results based on the measurements taken.
A Novel on Transmission Line Tower Big Data Analysis Model Using Altered K-means and ADQL
Authors: Jung Se-Hoon , Huh Jun-Ho
Published: June 2019

This study sought to propose a big data analysis and prediction model for transmission line tower outliers to assess when something is wrong with transmission line tower big data based on deep reinforcement learning. The model enables choosing automatic cluster K values based on non-labeled sensor big data. It also allows measuring the distance of action between data inside a cluster with the Q-value representing network output in the altered transmission line tower big data clustering algorithm containing transmission line tower outliers and old Deep Q Network. Specifically, this study performed principal component analysis to categorize transmission line tower data and proposed an automatic initial central point approach through standard normal distribution. It also proposed the A-Deep Q-Learning algorithm altered from the deep Q-Learning algorithm to explore policies based on the experiences of clustered data learning. It can be used to perform transmission line tower outlier data learning based on the distance of data within a cluster. The performance evaluation results show that the proposed model recorded an approximately 2.29%~4.19% higher prediction rate and around 0.8% ~ 4.3% higher accuracy rate compared to the old transmission line tower big data analysis model.
A New Method for the Quantitative Assessment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and a Case Study on Central Asia
Authors: Huan Yizhong , Li Haitao , Liang Tao
Published: June 2019

Regarding the sustainable development goals (SDGs) formulated by the United Nations (UN), how to effectively measure, assess and compare the progress and trends of these SDGs in different countries was the problem we wanted to address. Based on past quantitative assessments, this paper proposed a new methodological framework for SDG assessment and analysis, and used two typical Central Asian countries, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as the sample area to test the framework. Our study chose 209 indicators and indicator sets, including 429 specific indicators and collected relevant indicator data for the two countries from 2000 to 2017, then proposed a new direction for the unification of indicator data as well as methods for normalization. Afterward, the scores of each goal and SDG performance were calculated. This analysis was also done innovatively using the Chow Test to conduct further analysis of the SDG performance. According to the assessment, over those 18 years, Kyrgyzstan’s SDGs had been performing poorly, especially the economic SDGs, while the performance of Kazakhstan’s SDGs had remained in constant fluctuation. It could be said that the SDG performance in Central Asia as a whole was not very optimistic. It required the devotion of greater efforts in the gathering of different types of indicator data because there were still gaps in data collection between countries as well as the missing of time-series data, which could challenge the indicator selection and further restrict the follow-up assessment and analysis. The assessment framework presented in this paper can be applied for assessing the long-term performance of national SDGs of different countries, helping analyze the internal relationship dynamic among and within countries, underscoring specific issues of sustainable development, assessing policy and selecting development models and directions.
Neighbor Discovery Optimization for Big Data Analysis in Low-Power, Low-Cost Communication Networks
Authors: Choi Sangil , Yi Gangman
Published: June 2019

Big data analysis generally consists of the gathering and processing of raw data and producing meaningful information from this data. These days, large collections of sensors, smart phones, and electronic devices are all connected in the network. One of the primary features of these devices is low-power consumption and low cost. Power consumption is one of the important research concerns in low-power, low-cost communication networks such as sensor networks. A primary feature of sensor networks is a distributed and autonomous system. Therefore, all network devices in this type of network maintain the network connectivity by themselves using limited energy resources. When they are deployed in the area of interest, the first step for neighbor discovery involves the identification of neighboring nodes for connection and communication. Most wireless sensors utilize a power-saving mechanism by powering on the system if it is off, and vice versa. The neighbor discovery process becomes a power-consuming task if two neighboring nodes do not know when their partner wakes up and sleeps. In this paper, we consider the optimization of the neighbor discovery to reduce the power consumption in wireless sensor networks and propose an energy-efficient neighbor discovery scheme by adapting symmetric block designs, combining block designs, and utilizing the concept of activating nodes based on the multiples of a specific number. The performance evaluation demonstrates that the proposed neighbor discovery algorithm outperforms other competitive approaches by analyzing the wasted awakening slots numerically.
Efficient Three-Step Class of Eighth-Order Multiple Root Solvers and Their Dynamics
Authors: Alharbey R. A. , Kansal Munish , Behl Ramandeep , Machado J. A. Tenreiro
Published: June 2019

This article proposes a wide general class of optimal eighth-order techniques for approximating multiple zeros of scalar nonlinear equations. The new strategy adopts a weight function with an approach involving the function-to-function ratio. An extensive convergence analysis is performed for the eighth-order convergence of the algorithm. It is verified that some of the existing techniques are special cases of the new scheme. The algorithms are tested in several real-life problems to check their accuracy and applicability. The results of the dynamical study confirm that the new methods are more stable and accurate than the existing schemes.
Genetic Variability of Chrysodeixis Includens Nucleopolyhedrovirus (ChinNPV) and the Insecticidal Characteristics of Selected Genotypic Variants
Authors: Aguirre Eduardo , Beperet Inés , Williams Trevor , Caballero Primitivo
Published: June 2019

Genetic variation in baculoviruses is recognized as a key factor, not only due to the influence of such variation on pathogen transmission and virulence traits, but also because genetic variants can form the basis for novel biological insecticides. In this study, we examined the genetic variability of Chrysodeixis includens nucleopolyhedrovirus (ChinNPV) present in field isolates obtained from virus-killed larvae. Different ChinNPV strains were identified by restriction endonuclease analysis, from which genetic variants were isolated by plaque assay. Biological characterization studies were based on pathogenicity, median time to death (MTD), and viral occlusion body (OB) production (OBs/larva). Nine different isolates were obtained from eleven virus-killed larvae collected from fields of soybean in Mexico. An equimolar mixture of these isolates, named ChinNPV-Mex1, showed good insecticidal properties and yielded 23 genetic variants by plaque assay, one of which (ChinNPV-R) caused the highest mortality in second instars of C. includens. Five of these variants were selected: ChinNPV-F, ChinNPV-J, ChinNPV-K, ChinNPV-R, and ChinNPV-V. No differences in median time to death were found between them, while ChinNPV-F, ChinNPV-K, ChinNPV-R and ChinNPV-V were more productive than ChinNPV-J and the original mixture of field isolates ChinNPV-Mex1. These results demonstrate the high variability present in natural populations of this virus and support the use of these new genetic variants as promising active substances for baculovirus-based bioinsecticides.
Reactive Transport and Removal of Nutrients and Pesticides in Engineered Porous Media
Authors: Tong Dongli , Zhuang Jie , Chen Xijuan
Published: June 2019

Agricultural nonpoint pollution has been recognized as a primary source of nutrients and pesticides that contaminate surface water and groundwater. Reactive materials have great potential to remove nutrients and pesticides from agricultural drainage water. In this study, we investigated the reactive transport and removal of coexisting nitrate, phosphate, and three pesticides (tricyclazole, isoprothiolane, and malathion) by iron filings and natural ore limestone through column experiments under saturated flow conditions. Breakthrough results showed that 45.0% and 35.8% of nitrate were removed by iron filings and limestone during transport, with average removal capacities of 2670 mg/kg and 1400 mg/kg, respectively. The removal of nitrate was mainly due to microbial denitrification especially after 131–154 pore volumes (≈30 d), whereas reduction to ammonia dominated nitrate removal in iron filings during early phase (i.e., <21.7 d). The results showed that 68.2% and 17.6% of phosphate were removed by iron filings and limestone, with average removal capacities of 416.1 mg/kg and 155.2 mg/kg, respectively. Mineral surface analyses using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) suggested that ligand exchange, chemical precipitation, and electrostatic attraction were responsible for phosphate removal. Chemical sorption was the main mechanism that caused removals of 91.6–100% of malathion and ≈27% of isoprothiolane in iron filings and limestone. However, only 22.0% and 1.1% of tricycalzole were removed by iron filings and limestone, respectively, suggesting that the removal might be relevant to the nonpolarity of tricyclazole. This study demonstrates the great potential of industrial wastes for concurrent removal of nutrients and pesticides under flow conditions.
Atletik Performans ve Spor Genetiği
Authors: DİNÇ Nurten , GÖKMEN Mehmet Hilmi
Published: June 2019

Günümüzde
spora amatör veya profesyonel katılım arttıkça sportif performans ve bu
performansı etkileyen faktörlerin önemi de artmaktadır. Sporda
genetik altyapı özellikle kuvvet, dayanıklılık, kas kitlesi, kas liflerinin
tipi ve oranları ile akciğer kapasitesi üzerinde büyük etki göstermektedir. Spor genetiği çalışmaları, atletik performansa etki eden
genlerin belirlenmesi, etki mekanizmalarının aydınlatılması ve atletik
performansına olan yatkınlıklarının belirlenmesi alanlarındaki çalışmaların
bütününü kapsamaktadır.
Atletik performansla ilişkilendirilebilecek genlere örnek olarak; myostatin,
eritropoetin, büyüme hormonu, nitrik oksit sentaz, vasküler endotelyal büyüme
faktörü, anjiotensin dönüştürücü enzim, anjiotensinojen, monokarboksilat
taşıyıcı 1, insüline benzer büyüme faktörü-1, peroksizom proliferatör aktif
reseptör, alfa-aktinin-3 gibi genlerini sıralayabiliriz. Bu çalışmanın amacı ise spor
bilimlerinde ve sporcu performansında etkili olan genleri incelemektir.
Yearly change of Wheat dwarf virus infection rate during 1996-2010 in winter barley
Authors: Pocsai Emil , Murányi István
Published: June 2019

Yearly change of the infection of Wheat dwarf virus was studied in winter barley during 1996-2010. Surveys were carried out at Kompolt (Rudolf Fleischmann Research Institute, Róbert Károly College), in winter barley breeding lines showing leaf yellowing and stunting symptoms. In 1996, 250 winter barley samples were tested. During the period of 1997–2005, 100 samples were collected in each year. In 2006, 490 winter barley samples were tested. In 2007 and 2008 the number of samples collected was 500 from winter barley. In 2009 year 100, and in 2010 year 100 winter barley samples were collected for virus testing. Virus diagnosis was carried out using DASELISA for the detection of Wheat dwarf virus (WDV), Barley yellow dwarf viruses (BYDV-MAV, BYDV-PAV, BYDV-RMV, BYDV-SGV), and Cereal yellow dwarf virus (CYDV-RPV). During the ten of the last fifteen years, the occurrence of Wheat dwarf virus in infected samples exceeded those of other viruses causing leaf yellowing and dwarfing symptoms. There were years (1997, 2002, 2004, 2007, 2009 and 2010) when only the Wheat dwarf virus played the main role in development of yirus symtoms. A contrasting tendency can be observed between the degrees of infection of WDV and BYDV. With a rise of infection in the WDV, the proportion of BYDV decreased and vice-versa.