bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iodide/H2O2 Catalyzed Intramolecular Oxidative Amination for the Synthesis of 3,2′-Pyrrolidinyl Spirooxindoles
Authors: Gao Yu-Ting , Jin Xiao-Yang , Liu Qi , Liu An-Di , Cheng Liang , Wang Dong , Liu Li
Published: September 2018

An ammonium iodide/hydrogen peroxide-mediated intramolecular oxidative amination of 3-aminoalkyl-2-oxindoles was achieved, affording the corresponding 3,2′-pyrrolidinyl spirooxindoles and their 6- or 7-membered analogous in moderate to high yields. This metal-free procedure features very mild reaction conditions, non-toxicity and easily handled hydrogen peroxide as a clean oxidant.
Antimicrobial Potential of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Medicinal Herb Coptidis rhizome
Authors: Sharma Garima , Nam Ju-Suk , Sharma Ashish Ranjan , Lee Sang-Soo
Published: September 2018

Coptidis rhizome contains several alkaloids that are bioactive agents of therapeutic value. We propose an eco-friendly method to synthesize biocompatible silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using the aqueous extract of Coptidis rhizome. Silver ions were reduced to AgNPs using the aqueous extract of Coptidis rhizome, indicating that Coptidis rhizome can be used for the biosynthesis of AgNPs. The time and the concentration required for conversion of silver ions into AgNPs was optimized using UV-absorbance spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP). Biosynthesized AgNPs showed a distinct UV-Visible absorption peak at 420 nm. ICP analysis showed that the time required for the completion of biosynthesis was around 20 min. Microscopic images showed that nanoparticles synthesized were of spherical shape and the average diameter of biosynthesized AgNPs was less than 30 nm. XRD analysis also confirmed the size of AgNps and revealed their crystalline nature. The interaction of AgNPs with phytochemicals present in Coptidis rhizome extract was observed in FTIR analysis. The antimicrobial property of AgNPs was evaluated using turbidity measurements. Coptidis rhizome-mediated biosynthesized AgNPs showed significant anti-bacterial activities against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus that are commonly involved in various types of infections, indicating their potential as an effective anti-bacterial agent.
Two-Holder Strategy for Efficient and Selective Synthesis of Lk 1 ssDNA Catenane
Authors: Li Qi , Li Jing , Cui Yixiao , Liu Sheng , An Ran , Liang Xingguo , Komiyama Makoto
Published: September 2018

DNA catenanes are characterized by their flexible and dynamic motions and have been regarded as one of the key players in sophisticated DNA-based molecular machines. There, the linking number (Lk) between adjacent interlocked rings is one of the most critical factors, since it governs the feasibility of dynamic motions. However, there has been no established way to synthesize catenanes in which Lk is controlled to a predetermined value. This paper reports a new methodology to selectively synthesize Lk 1 catenanes composed of single-stranded DNA rings, in which these rings can most freely rotate each other due to minimal inter-ring interactions. To the mixture for the synthesis, two holder strands (oligonucleotides of 18–46 nt) were added, and the structure of the quasi-catenane intermediate was interlocked through Watson–Crick base pairings into a favorable conformation for Lk 1 catenation. The length of the complementary part between the two quasi-rings was kept at 10 bp or shorter. Under these steric constraints, two quasi-rings were cyclized with the use of T4 DNA ligase. By this simple procedure, the formation of undesired topoisomers (Lk ≥ 2) was almost completely inhibited, and Lk 1 catenane was selectively prepared in high yield up to 70 mole%. These Lk 1 catenanes have high potentials as dynamic parts for versatile DNA architectures.
A Phytochemical-Based Copolymer Derived from Coriolus versicolor Polysaccharopeptides for Gene Delivery
Authors: Lai Wing-Fu , Lin Marie C. , Tang Guping
Published: September 2018

Coriolus versicolor is an herb widely used for cancer treatment in traditional Chinese medicine. Its active ingredients, polysaccharopeptides (PSP), have been used for adjuvant therapies in cancer treatment. This study conjugates Coriolus versicolor PSP with poly(ethylenimine) (PEI) to generate a PSP-PEI copolymer for gene transfer. After PEI conjugation, both the pH buffering capacity and DNA compaction ability of PSP are significantly increased. Compared with that of PSP, the transfection efficiency of PSP-PEI is 10 to 20-fold higher in vitro. This is a proof-of-concept study reporting the direct use of bioactive phytochemicals from traditional Chinese medicine for gene vector development. The promising performance of PSP-PEI raises the possibility that bioactive herbal ingredients can be further developed as a multi-therapeutic gene carrier for tackling cancers.
Development and Evaluation of Minocycline Hydrochloride-Loaded In Situ Cubic Liquid Crystal for Intra-Periodontal Pocket Administration
Authors: Yang Zhuanzhuan , Liang Xin , Jiang Xiaojing , Guo Jian , Tao Yaotian , Wang Shengmei , Cao Yingji , Gui Shuangying
Published: September 2018

In the present study, an injectable in situ liquid crystal formulation was developed for local delivery of minocycline hydrochloride (MH) for chronic periodontitis treatment. The physicochemical properties, phase structures, in vitro drug release and pharmacodynamics of in situ liquid crystals were investigated. The optimal formulation (phytantriol (PT)/propylene glycol (PG)/water, 63/27/10, w/w/w) loaded with 20 mg/g MH was proved to be injectable. The precursor formulation can form a cubic phase gel in excess water in 6.97 ± 0.10 s. The results of in vitro drug release suggested the MH presented a sustained release for 4 days. Liquid crystal precursor formulation significantly reduced gingival index, probing depth and alveolar bone loss compared to the model group (p < 0.01). Besides, the pathological characteristics of model rats were improved. The results suggested that MH-loaded in situ cubic liquid crystal possessed of sustained release ability and periodontal clinical symptoms improvement. The developed in situ cubic liquid crystal may be a potentially carrier in the local delivery of MH for periodontal diseases.
Novel Phenolic Constituents of Pulmonaria officinalis L. LC-MS/MS Comparison of Spring and Autumn Metabolite Profiles
Authors: Krzyżanowska-Kowalczyk Justyna , Pecio Łukasz , Mołdoch Jarosław , Ludwiczuk Agnieszka , Kowalczyk Mariusz
Published: September 2018

Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis L., Boraginaceae) is considered to possess therapeutic properties and it has been traditionally used as a remedy against various lung disorders in many countries. Nevertheless, very few data concerning its phytochemical composition are available. This research aims to provide a detailed description of specialized metabolites from the aerial parts of lungwort. Nine previously undescribed and 36 known phenolic compounds were detected in the 50% methanolic extract. Following multistep preparative procedures, structures of newly discovered compounds were determined using one- and two-dimensional techniques of NMR spectroscopy. Among the identified compounds were caffeic acid esters with aliphatic hydroxycarboxylic acids, conjugates of dicaffeic acid with rosmarinic acid, and previously unknown isomers of isosalvianolic acid A and yunnaneic acid E, as well as other lignans. Concentrations of all identified phenolic derivatives in the investigated herbal material were estimated using a method based on liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry detection. Seasonal changes in the concentration of metabolites were also investigated using targeted and untargeted metabolomics techniques.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel 4-Substituted Coumarin Derivatives as Antitumor Agents
Authors: An Ran , Hou Zhuang , Li Jian-Teng , Yu Hao-Nan , Mou Yan-Hua , Guo Chun
Published: September 2018

Herein, fifteen new compounds containing coumarin, 1,2,3-triazole and benzoyl- substituted arylamine moieties were designed, synthesized and tested in vitro for their anticancer activity. The results showed that all tested compounds had moderate antiproliferative activity against MDA-MB-231, a human breast cancer cell line, under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Furthermore, the 4-substituted coumarin linked with benzoyl 3,4-dimethoxyaniline through 1,2,3-triazole (compound 5e) displayed the most prominent antiproliferative activities with an IC50 value of 0.03 μM, about 5000 times stronger than 4-hydroxycoumarin (IC50 > 100 μM) and 20 times stronger than doxorubicin (IC50 = 0.60 μM). Meanwhile, almost all compounds revealed general enhancement of proliferation-inhibiting activity under hypoxia, contrasted with normoxia. A docking analysis showed that compound 5e had potential to inhibit carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX).
Ligand-Free Nano-Au Catalysts on Nitrogen-Doped Graphene Filter for Continuous Flow Catalysis
Authors: Liu Yanbiao , Liu Xiang , Yang Shengnan , Li Fang , Shen Chensi , Ma Chunyan , Huang Manhong , Sand Wolfgang
Published: September 2018

In this study, the authors rationally designed a high-performance catalytic filter for continuous flow catalysis. The catalytic filter consisted of ligand-free nanoscale gold (nano-Au) catalysts and nitrogen-doped graphene (N-rGO). The Au catalyst was fabricated in situ onto a pre-formed N-rGO support by the NaBH4 reduction of the Au precursor, and the size of the nano-Au was fine-tuned. A hydrothermal pretreatment of graphene oxide enriched nitrogen-containing species on the surface of two-dimensional graphene supports and enhanced the affinity of Au precursors onto the support via electrocatalytic attraction. The nano-Au catalysts acted as high-performance catalysts, and the N-rGO acted as ideal filter materials to anchor the catalysts. The catalytic activity of the as-designed catalytic filter was evaluated using 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) hydrogenation as a model catalytic reaction. The catalytic filters demonstrated superior catalytic activity and excellent stability, where a complete 4-nitrophenol conversion was readily achieved via a single pass through the catalytic filter. The as-fabricated catalytic filter outperformed the conventional batch reactors due to evidently improved mass transport. Some key operational parameters impacting the catalytic performance were identified and optimized. A similar catalytic performance was also observed for three 4-nitrophenol spiked real water samples (e.g., surface water, tap water, and industrial dyeing wastewater). The excellent catalytic activity of the nano-Au catalysts combined with the two-dimensional and mechanically stable graphene allowed for the rational design of various continuous flow catalytic membranes for potential industrial applications.
Dy(III) Doped BiOCl Powder with Superior Highly Visible-Light-Driven Photocatalytic Activity for Rhodamine B Photodegradation
Authors: Yang Jun , Xie Taiping , Liu Chenglun , Xu Longjun
Published: September 2018

Dy-doped BiOCl powder photocatalyst was synthesized A one–step coprecipitation method. The incorporation of Dy3+ replaced partial Bi3+ in BiOCl crystal lattice system. For Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light irradiation, 2% Dy doped BiOCl possessed highly efficient photocatalytic activity and photodegradation efficiency. The photodegradation ratio of RhB could reach 97.3% after only 30 min of photocatalytic reaction; this was more than relative investigations have reported in the last two years. The main reason was that the 4f electron shell of Dy in the BiOCl crystal lattice system can generate a special electronic shell structure that facilitated the transfer of electron from valance band to conduction band and separation of the photoinduced charge carrier. Apart from material preparation, this research is expected to provide important references for RhB photodegradation in practical applications.
Applicability of Yeast Fermentation to Reduce Fructans and Other FODMAPs
Authors: Fraberger Vera , Call Lisa-Maria , Domig Konrad J. , D’Amico Stefano
Published: September 2018

A diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and, polyols (FODMAPs) is recommended for people affected by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and non-coeliac wheat sensitivity (NCWS) in order to reduce symptoms. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of 13 sourdough-related yeasts on FODMAP degradation, especially fructans. First, a model system containing a typical wheat carbohydrate profile was applied to evaluate the growth rate of each yeast strain. Additionally, changes in the sugar composition, for up to four days, were monitored by high-pressure anion-exchange chromatography (HPAEC). A more realistic approach with a wheat flour suspension was used to characterize CO2 production according to the Einhorn method. The reduction of the total fructans was analyzed using an enzymatic method. Furthermore, a fingerprint of the present fructans with different degrees of polymerization was analyzed by HPAEC. The results revealed strong differences in the examined yeast strains’ ability to degrade fructans, in both the model system and wheat flour. Overall, Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolated from Austrian traditional sourdough showed the highest degree of degradation of the total fructan content and the highest gas building capacity, followed by Torulaspora delbrueckii. Hence, this study provides novel knowledge about the FODMAP conversion of yeast strains.
Effects of Vegetable Proteins on Hypercholesterolemia and Gut Microbiota Modulation
Authors: Busnelli Marco , Manzini Stefano , Sirtori Cesare R. , Chiesa Giulia , Parolini Cinzia
Published: September 2018

Risk assessment tools, i.e., validated risk prediction algorithms, to estimate the patient’s 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) should be used to identify high-risk people for primary prevention. Current evidence confirms that appropriate monitoring and control of risk factors either reduces the likelihood of CVD or slows down its progression. It is thus crucial that all health professionals make appropriate use of all the available intervention strategies to control risk factors: from dietary improvement and adequate physical activity to the use of functional foods, food supplements, and drugs. The gut microbiota, which encompasses 1 × 1014 resident microorganisms, has been recently recognized as a contributing factor in the development of human disease. This review examines the effect of both some vegetable food components belong to the “protein food group” and the underexploited protein-rich hempseed on cholesterolemia and gut microbiota composition.
Development of Dual Drug Loaded Nanosized Liposomal Formulation by A Reengineered Ethanolic Injection Method and Its Pre-Clinical Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Sarfraz Muhammad , Afzal Attia , Yang Tan , Gai Yongkang , Raza Shahid Masood , Khan Muhammad Waseem , Cheng Yao , Ma Xiang , Xiang Guangya
Published: September 2018

Oleanolic acid (OA), which is a natural pentacyclic terpenoid, has been identified for hepato-protective, nephron-protective and cardio-tonic properties. In contrast, doxorubicin (DOX) is a famous anti-cancer drug but its efficacy is a question mark because of its known cardio-toxicity. We developed a combined nanoliposomal formulation of DOX with OA, as adjuvant, to overwhelm toxic effects of DOX without compromising anticancer activity. The entrapment efficiency and the particle size were brought in limit by the reengineered ethanolic injection method (REIM), without further extrusion. The developed formulations were stable over the study period of two months. A modified HPLC method was employed for the analysis of OA (drug retention time, Tr = 12 ± 1 min). The recovery of OA against spiked plasma samples was more than 90%. MTT assay showed anti-apoptotic synergism against HepG2 cells at non-fixed ratio (combination index, CI < 1). A sustained in vivo drug release of experimental drugs was depicted over 24 h. Histopathological examination and laboratory findings indicated no visible sign of toxicity in the treated mice group against combined delivery. Hence, this combined nanoliposomal formulation was tagged as a safer therapy for the DOX based cancer treatments.
Extraction of Keratin from Rabbit Hair by a Deep Eutectic Solvent and Its Characterization
Authors: Wang Dongyue , Yang Xu-Hong , Tang Ren-Cheng , Yao Fan
Published: September 2018

Keratin from a variety of sources is one of the most abundant biopolymers. In livestock and textile industries, a large amount of rabbit hair waste is produced every year, and therefore it is of great significance to extract keratin from waste rabbit hair in terms of the treatment and utilization of wastes. In this study, a novel, eco-friendly and benign choline chloride/oxalic acid deep eutectic solvent at a molar ratio of 1:2 was applied to dissolve waste rabbit hair, and after dissolution keratin was separated by dialysis, filtration, and freeze-drying. The dissolution temperature effect was discussed, and the resulting keratin powder was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, protein electrophoresis, thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry, and amino acid analysis. During the dissolution process, the α-helix structure of rabbit hair was deconstructed, and the disulfide bond linkages were broken. The solubility of rabbit hair was significantly enhanced by increasing dissolution temperature, and reached 88% at 120 °C. The keratin produced by dissolving at 120 °C displayed flaky powders after freeze-drying, and had a molecular weight ranging from 3.8 to 5.8 kDa with a high proportion of serine, glutamic acid, cysteine, leucine, and arginine. Such features of molecular weight and amino acid distribution provide more choices for the diverse applications of keratin materials.
Image Segmentation Parameter Selection and Ant Colony Optimization for Date Palm Tree Detection and Mapping from Very-High-Spatial-Resolution Aerial Imagery
Authors: Al-Ruzouq Rami , Shanableh Abdallah , Barakat A. Gibril Mohamed , AL-Mansoori Saeed
Published: September 2018

Accurate mapping of date palm trees is essential for their sustainable management, yield estimation, and environmental studies. In this study, we integrated geographic object-based image analysis, class-specific accuracy measures, fractional factorial design, metaheuristic feature-selection technique, and rule-based classification to detect and map date palm trees from very-high-spatial-resolution (VHSR) aerial images of two study areas. First, multiresolution segmentation was optimized through the synergy of the F1-score accuracy measure and the robust Taguchi design. Second, ant colony optimization (ACO) was adopted to select the most significant features. Out of 31 features, only 12 significant color invariants and textural features were selected. Third, based on the selected features, the rule-based classification with the aid of a decision tree algorithm was applied to extract date palm trees. The proposed methodology was developed on a subset of the first study area, and ultimately applied to the second study area to investigate its efficiency and transferability. To evaluate the proposed classification scheme, various supervised object-based algorithms, namely random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and k-nearest neighbor (k-NN), were applied to the first study area. The result of image segmentation optimization demonstrated that segmentation optimization based on an integrated F1-score class-specific accuracy measure and Taguchi statistical design showed improvement compared with objective function, along with the Taguchi design. Moreover, the result of the feature selection by ACO outperformed, with almost 88% overall accuracy, several feature-selection techniques, such as chi-square, correlation-based feature selection, gain ratio, information gain, support vector machine, and principal component analysis. The integrated framework for palm tree detection outperformed RF, SVM, and k-NN classification algorithms with an overall accuracy of 91.88% and 87.03%, date palm class-specific accuracies of 0.91 and 0.89, and kappa coefficients of 0.90 and 0.85 for the first and second study areas, respectively. The proposed integrated methodology demonstrated a highly efficient and promising tool to detect and map date palm trees from VHSR aerial images.
Underground Object Classification for Urban Roads Using Instantaneous Phase Analysis of Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) Data
Authors: Park Byeongjin , Kim Jeongguk , Lee Jaesun , Kang Man-Sung , An Yun-Kyu
Published: September 2018

Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) has been widely used to detect subsurface objects, such as hidden cavities, buried pipes, and manholes, owing to its noncontact sensing, rapid scanning, and deeply penetrating remote-sensing capabilities. Currently, GPR data interpretation depends heavily on the experience of well-trained experts because different types of underground objects often generate similar GPR reflection features. Moreover, reflection visualizations that were obtained from field GPR data for urban roads are often weak and noisy. This study proposes a novel instantaneous phase analysis technique to address these issues. The proposed technique aims to enhance the visibility of underground objects and provide objective criteria for GPR data interpretation so that the objects can be automatically classified without expert intervention. The feasibility of the proposed technique is validated both numerically and experimentally. The field test utilizes rarely available GPR data for urban roads in Seoul, South Korea and demonstrates that the technique allows for successful visualization and classification of three different types of underground objects.
Evaluation of Different Machine Learning Algorithms for Scalable Classification of Tree Types and Tree Species Based on Sentinel-2 Data
Authors: Wessel Mathias , Brandmeier Melanie , Tiede Dirk
Published: September 2018

We use freely available Sentinel-2 data and forest inventory data to evaluate the potential of different machine-learning approaches to classify tree species in two forest regions in Bavaria, Germany. Atmospheric correction was applied to the level 1C data, resulting in true surface reflectance or bottom of atmosphere (BOA) output. We developed a semiautomatic workflow for the classification of deciduous (mainly spruce trees), beech and oak trees by evaluating different classification algorithms (object- and pixel-based) in an architecture optimized for distributed processing. A hierarchical approach was used to evaluate different band combinations and algorithms (Support Vector Machines (SVM) and Random Forest (RF)) for the separation of broad-leaved vs. coniferous trees. The Ebersberger forest was the main project region and the Freisinger forest was used in a transferability study. Accuracy assessment and training of the algorithms was based on inventory data, validation was conducted using an independent dataset. A confusion matrix, with User´s and Producer´s Accuracies, as well as Overall Accuracies, was created for all analyses. In total, we tested 16 different classification setups for coniferous vs. broad-leaved trees, achieving the best performance of 97% for an object-based multitemporal SVM approach using only band 8 from three scenes (May, August and September). For the separation of beech and oak trees we evaluated 54 different setups, the best result achieved an accuracy of 91% for an object-based, SVM, multitemporal approach using bands 8, 2 and 3 of the May scene for segmentation and all principal components of the August scene for classification. The transferability of the model was tested for the Freisinger forest and showed similar results. This project points out that Sentinel-2 had only marginally worse results than comparable commercial high-resolution satellite sensors and is well-suited for forest analysis on a tree-stand level.
Microwave Imaging Sensor Using Low Profile Modified Stacked Type Planar Inverted F Antenna
Authors: Islam Mohammad Tariqul , Ullah Md. Amanath , Alam Touhidul , Singh Mandeep Jit , Cho Mengu
Published: September 2018

Microwave imaging is the technique to identify hidden objects from structures using electromagnetic waves that can be applied in medical diagnosis. The change of dielectric property can be detected using microwave antenna sensor, which can lead to localization of abnormality in the human body. This paper presents a stacked type modified Planar Inverted F Antenna (PIFA) as microwave imaging sensor. Design and performance analysis of the sensor antenna along with computational and experimental analysis to identify concealed object has been investigated in this study. The dimension of the modified PIFA radiating patch is 40 × 20 × 10 mm3. The reflector walls used, are 45 mm in length and 0.2-mm-thick inexpensive copper sheet is considered for the simulation and fabrication which addresses the problems of high expenses in conventional patch antenna. The proposed antenna sensor operates at 1.55–1.68 GHz where the maximum realized gain is 4.5 dB with consistent unidirectional radiation characteristics. The proposed sensor antenna is used to identify tumor in a computational human tissue phantom based on reflection and transmission coefficient. Finally, an experiment has been performed to verify the antenna’s potentiality of detecting abnormality in realistic breast phantom.
On the Sensitivity of the Parameters of the Intensity-Based Stochastic Model for Terrestrial Laser Scanner. Case Study: B-Spline Approximation
Authors: Kermarrec Gaël , Alkhatib Hamza , Neumann Ingo
Published: September 2018

For a trustworthy least-squares (LS) solution, a good description of the stochastic properties of the measurements is indispensable. For a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS), the range variance can be described by a power law function with respect to the intensity of the reflected signal. The power and scaling factors depend on the laser scanner under consideration, and could be accurately determined by means of calibrations in 1d mode or residual analysis of LS adjustment. However, such procedures complicate significantly the use of empirical intensity models (IM). The extent to which a point-wise weighting is suitable when the derived variance covariance matrix (VCM) is further used in a LS adjustment remains moreover questionable. Thanks to closed loop simulations, where both the true geometry and stochastic model are under control, we investigate how variations of the parameters of the IM affect the results of a LS adjustment. As a case study, we consider the determination of the Cartesian coordinates of the control points (CP) from a B-splines curve. We show that a constant variance can be assessed to all the points of an object having homogeneous properties, without affecting the a posteriori variance factor or the loss of efficiency of the LS solution. The results from a real case scenario highlight that the conclusions of the simulations stay valid even for more challenging geometries. A procedure to determine the range variance is proposed to simplify the computation of the VCM.
Synthesizing and Reconstructing Missing Sensory Modalities in Behavioral Context Recognition
Authors: Saeed Aaqib , Ozcelebi Tanir , Lukkien Johan
Published: September 2018

Detection of human activities along with the associated context is of key importance for various application areas, including assisted living and well-being. To predict a user’s context in the daily-life situation a system needs to learn from multimodal data that are often imbalanced, and noisy with missing values. The model is likely to encounter missing sensors in real-life conditions as well (such as a user not wearing a smartwatch) and it fails to infer the context if any of the modalities used for training are missing. In this paper, we propose a method based on an adversarial autoencoder for handling missing sensory features and synthesizing realistic samples. We empirically demonstrate the capability of our method in comparison with classical approaches for filling in missing values on a large-scale activity recognition dataset collected in-the-wild. We develop a fully-connected classification network by extending an encoder and systematically evaluate its multi-label classification performance when several modalities are missing. Furthermore, we show class-conditional artificial data generation and its visual and quantitative analysis on context classification task; representing a strong generative power of adversarial autoencoders.
Modeling and Performance of the IEEE 802.11p Broadcasting for Intra-Platoon Communication
Authors: Yu Chong , Si Shuaizong , Guo Hongye , Zhao Hai
Published: September 2018

Road capacity, traffic safety, and energy efficiency can be extremely improved by forming platoons with a small intra-vehicle spacing. Automated controllers obtain vehicle speed, acceleration, and position through vehicular ad hoc networks (VANETs), which allows the performance of platoon communication to make a significant impact on the stability of the platoon. To the best of our knowledge, there is not much research relating to packet delay and packet dropping rate of platoon communication based on the IEEE 802.11p broadcasting. In this paper, we introduce platoon structure model, vehicle control model, and communication model for a single platoon scenario. By utilizing Markov process and M/G/1/K queuing theory, we put forward an analytical model to assess the property of intra-vehicle communication. The analytical model is validated by simulations and the influence of communication parameters on intra-vehicle communication performance are discussed. In addition, the experimental results demonstrate that the IEEE 802.11p-based intra-vehicle communication guarantee the stability of platoon.
Real-Time Safety Evaluation for Slope during Construction Using Numerical Forecast and Sensor Monitoring Platform
Authors: Zhang Sherong , Hou Dejun , Wang Chao , Cao Xuexing , Zhang Fenghua , Pan Fei , Du Chengbo
Published: September 2018

Geology uncertainties and real-time construction modification induce an increase of construction risk for large-scale slope in hydraulic engineering. However, the real-time evaluation of slope safety during construction is still an unsettled issue for mapping large-scale slope hazards. In this study, the real-time safety evaluation method is proposed coupling a construction progress with numerical analysis of slope safety. New revealed geological information, excavation progress adjustment, and the support structures modification are updating into the slope safety information model-by-model restructuring. A dynamic connection mapping method between the slope restructuring model and the computable numerical model is illustrated. The numerical model can be generated rapidly and automatically in database. A real-time slope safety evaluation system is developed and its establishing method, prominent features, and application results are briefly introduced in this paper. In our system, the interpretation of potential slope risk is conducted coupling dynamic numerical forecast and monitoring data feedback. The real case study results in a comprehensive real-time safety evaluation application for large slope that illustrates the change of environmental factor and construction state over time.
Development of CdSe–ZnO Flower-Rod Core-Shell Structure Based Photoelectrochemical Biosensor for Detection of Norovirous RNA
Authors: Han Zhizhong , Weng Qinghua , Lin Chaofan , Yi Jinquan , Kang Jie
Published: September 2018

In this work, the CdSe–ZnO flower-rod core-shell structure (CSZFRs) was prepared by ion-exchange method. The surface of CSZFRs was modified by 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA), and then the DNA probe was immobilized on the surface via chemical bond between -NH2 of DNA probe and -COOH of MPA. Finally, the target norovirous (NV) RNA was combined with the probe according to the principle of complementary base pairing, resulting in a decrease of the photocurrent. The results show that the absorbance spectrum of visible light is enhanced for CSZFRs compared with pure ZnO. Under visible light irradiation, the photocurrent of CSZFRs is up to 0.1 mA, which can improve the sensitivity of the photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensor. In the measurement range of 0–5.10 nM, the measured concentrations (c) have a good linear relationship with the output photocurrent of the biosensor. The linear regression equation is expressed as I = 0.03256 − 0.0033c (R2 = 0.99, S/N = 3) with a detection limit of 0.50 nM. Therefore, this work realizes a rapid and sensitive method for the detection of NV RNA.
An Exploration of the Cultural Landscape Model of Zhuge Village
Authors: Xu Li , Chiou Shang-Chia
Published: September 2018

Since ancient times, China has adhered to designing human settlement based on the concept of “defending the emperor and safeguarding the ordinary”. With its spatial structure in accordance with the Chinese ancient strategist Zhuge Liang’s art of war “the Diagram of the Eight-Sided Battle Formation” and in line with the terrain of natural landscape, Zhuge Village, the settlement of Zhuge Liang’s descendants in middle Zhejiang Province, has formed a landscape model featuring cultural characteristics. Using literature research, field research, schema cognition and analysis method, this paper investigates and analyzes aspects such as the siting of settlement, spatial layout, landscape images, ritual activities, and landscape changes so as to explore the concepts from ancient art of war to spatial design as well as analyze its landscape forms and the construction of its landscape model. The paper aims to reveal how the designer of Zhuge Village transformed the spatial deployment of the battle formation in the ancient art of war into the spatial landscape model of “living and working in peace and contentment”. In addition, this paper intends to explore the cultural landscape model of the traditional settlement on the basis of Chinese traditional cultural symbol, “the Eight Trigrams”, in hope that it will provide some inspiration for urban public landscape design in China.
A New Evaluation for Solving the Fully Fuzzy Data Envelopment Analysis with Z-Numbers
Authors: Namakin Ali , Najafi Seyyed Esmaeil , Fallah Mohammad , Javadi Mehrdad
Published: September 2018

There are numerous models for solving the efficiency evaluation in data envelopment analysis (DEA) with fuzzy input and output data. However, because of the limitation of those strategies, they cannot be implemented for solving fully fuzzy DEA (FFDEA). Furthermore, in real-world problems with imprecise data, fuzziness is not sufficient to consider, and the reliability of the information is also very vital. To overcome these flaws, this paper presented a new method for solving the fully fuzzy DEA model where all parameters are Z-numbers. The new approach is primarily based on crisp linear programming and has a simple structure. Moreover, it is proved that the only existing method to solve FFDEA with Z-numbers is not valid. An example is also presented to illustrate the efficiency of our proposed method and provide an explanation for the content of the paper.
Evolution of Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) over Multiple Seasons in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Di Giallonardo Francesca , Kok Jen , Fernandez Marian , Carter Ian , Geoghegan Jemma L. , Dwyer Dominic E. , Holmes Edward C. , Eden John-Sebastian
Published: September 2018

There is an ongoing global pandemic of human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection that results in substantial annual morbidity and mortality. In Australia, RSV is a major cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRI). Nevertheless, little is known about the extent and origins of the genetic diversity of RSV in Australia, nor the factors that shape this diversity. We have conducted a genome-scale analysis of RSV infections in New South Wales (NSW). RSV genomes were successfully sequenced for 144 specimens collected between 2010–2016. Of these, 64 belonged to the RSVA and 80 to the RSVB subtype. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a wide diversity of RSV lineages within NSW and that both subtypes evolved rapidly in a strongly clock-like manner, with mean rates of approximately 6–8 × 10−4 nucleotide substitutions per site per year. There was only weak evidence for geographic clustering of sequences, indicative of fluid patterns of transmission within the infected population and no evidence of any clustering by patient age such that viruses in the same lineages circulate through the entire host population. Importantly, we show that both subtypes circulated concurrently in NSW with multiple introductions into the Australian population in each year and only limited evidence for multi-year persistence.
Clinical and Epidemiological Study of Vitiligo Patients at a Dermatology Service in Northern Brazil
Authors: DIAS ALINE DE LIMA , Pires Carla Andréa Avelar , Santos Neto Alvaro Alves dos , Oliveira Brenna Pinheiro Mota Brabo de , Silva Luana De Paula dos Santos da , Silva Thais Passarinho Smith da , Mainardi Carolina Ribeiro , Franco Paula Silva , Santos Maria Amélia Lopes dos
Published: September 2018

Background: Vitiligo is an acquired hypomelanosis that affects between 0.5% and 4% of the world population, characterized by distinct acromic macules of various shapes and sizes, and may appear in any region of the skin. Worldwide, there are few publications on vitiligo that address epidemiological characteristics. Thus, the objective was to describe the clinical and epidemiological profile of patients with this condition at the State University of Pará’s Dermatology Clinic, in the city of Belém, Northern of Brazil.

Methods and Findings: A cross-sectional descriptive study was performed, in which 180 medical records of patients treated at the State University of Pará’s Dermatology Clinic, from July 2000 to July 2014, were analyzed using a protocol consisting of variables related to the disease. The information obtained was organized in a database and submitted to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. The study was approved by the ethics and research committee under the number 923.213. A predominance of the female gender (72.2%), of the adult age group (55%) was observed; without relation to family history (46.7%); without progression (58.3%); with a predominant clinical form of vitiligo of the generalized type (67.2%), being the common generalized one with the highest prevalence (57%). The most affected sites were head and neck (27.5%), and upper limbs (25.3%).

Conclusions: This study revealed the characteristics of the vitiligo patient residing in the Amazon region, and patients were found to have a generalized clinical form, most of the patients achieved improvement of the lesions with the proposed treatment, and only a minority presented progression of the disease. It is concluded that vitiligo is a disease with great therapeutic difficulty, and it is emphasized the importance of an early diagnosis, since in the early stages is easier to resolve the disease.
Visages en ville, déambulations photographiques pour enseigner l’espace proche
Authors: Joublot Ferré Sylvie
Published: September 2018

Nous proposons dans cet article une voie d’exploration spécifique de l’espace proche, sur le modèle d’une enquête photographique portant sur les visages inanimés croisés en ville de Lausanne, visibles sur des affiches, des stickers, des statues, des tableaux, des dessins, des graffitis. En collectant les expressions de visages croisés au quotidien par les lausannois ou les personnes de passage, est-il possible de renseigner l’espace proche et les relations établies avec la ville et ses habitants ? Nous avons choisi dans cette contribution de présenter une enquête empirique et son potentiel dans le cadre de l’enseignement de la géographie à l’école. L’enquête sur le terrain et la traversée piétonnière d’espaces urbains sont analysés en tant que processus d’apprentissages auprès des élèves.
An Analysis of the Factors Affecting the Adoption of Cloud Computing in Higher Educational Institutions
Authors: Tarhini Ali , Al-Gharbi Khamis , Al-Badi Ali , AlHinai Yousuf Salim
Published: September 2018

This article aims to examine the main factors that may hinder or facilitate the adoption of cloud computing (CC) services by higher educational institutions in developing countries, exemplified here by Oman. A conceptual model was developed through extending the technology-organization-environment (TOE) framework. Data was collected from 387 IT decision makers working in four higher educational institutions in Oman using a cross-sectional survey. Data was analysed using structural equation modelling based on AMOS 22.0. The results show that behavioural intention (BI) towards adopting CC services in higher educational institutions was influenced by top management support, relative advantage, attitudes towards change, technology readiness, complexity, government regulation, peer pressure, and data concerns in their order of influencing power. These all together accounted for 58.3% of the variance in BI. However, compatibility, vendor lock-in and external expertise did not have an influence on BI. This research provides original insight for cloud computing adoption within Oman from a managerial and IT professional perspectives. Specifically, this research would be helpful for government agencies, cloud computing providers and policy makers at higher educational institutions. It will also explain the relatively low penetration rate of cloud computing services at present, which will help in formulating strategies to encourage the adoption and acceptance of CC services by Omani higher educational institutions, where CC is still considered an innovation.
A New Conception of Load Balancing in Cloud Computing Using Tasks Classification Levels
Authors: Youssef Fahim , El Habib Ben Lahmar , Hamza Rahhali , Labriji El Houssine  , Ahmed Eddaoui , Hanoune Mostafa
Published: September 2018

Cloud users can have access to the service based on “pay as you go.” The daily increase of cloud users may decrease the performance, the availability and the profitability of the material and software resources used in cloud service. These challenges were solved by several load balancing algorithms between the virtual machines of the data centers. In order to determine a new load balancing improvement; this article's discussions will be divided into two research axes. The first, the pre-classification of tasks depending on whether their characteristics are accomplished or not (Notion of Levels). This new technique relies on the modeling of tasks classification based on an ascending order using techniques that calculate the worst-case execution time (WCET). The second, the authors choose distributed datacenters between quasi-similar virtual machines and the modeling of relationship between virtual machines using the pre-scheduling levels is included in the data center in terms of standard mathematical functions that controls this relationship. The key point of the improvement, is considering the current load of the virtual machine of a data center and the pre-estimation of the execution time of a task before any allocation. This contribution allows cloud service providers to improve the performance, availability and maximize the use of virtual machines workload in their data centers.
Modeling Users' Acceptance of Social Commerce
Authors: Saprikis Vaggelis , Markos Angelos
Published: September 2018

Social commerce creates a range of tremendous opportunities and new revenue streams for businesses worldwide across all industry sectors. To keep up with this pace, companies increasingly want to understand the behavioral attitude of social networking site (SNS) users. This article examines SNS users' reaction towards different parameters that would influence their intention to purchase products and services through or via SNS. The extant literature focuses on understanding the factors that might affect consumers' behavioral intention to adopt social commerce. In this study, new theoretical constructs are combined with existing evidence in order to extend the technology acceptance model as it was initially established by Davis and later further enriched by other researchers. The proposed conceptual model includes behavioral intention, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, trust, enjoyment, closeness, familiarity and reward.
A Critical Review of the Effectiveness of Narrative-Driven Digital Educational Games
Authors: Jackson Luke Conrad , O'Mara Joanne , Moss Julianne , Jackson Alun C.
Published: September 2018

Digital games are currently viewed, by many within the field of education, as a way to engage and motivate students, and to assist them in acquiring content knowledge and skills. Despite the growing interest in using digital games, including serious games, this is the first critical review of the literature on the effectiveness of digital narrative-driven educational games. Of 2550 articles initially screened, 130 were synthesised in the final review. The results suggest that such games can be more much more effective than traditional instruction for promoting attitude change, engagement, motivation, and skill acquisition; slightly more effective in promoting enjoyment and knowledge acquisition; and equal in fostering behaviour change. As such, they may be viewed as effective and versatile tools for teaching and learning.
Antecedents of New Recruit's Adjustment
Authors: Deshpande Amruta , Gupta Ritu
Published: September 2018

The transition of newly hired employees from educational institutes to the corporate world thrusts them into unfamiliar environments. The reality shocks during a new employee's early days can lead to behavioral withdrawal, interpersonal conflict, lack of work engagement, lack of productivity, dissatisfaction, and turnover. The purpose of this article was to explore the antecedents of new recruits' adjustment in the Indian IT industry. The study considered three antecedents: supervisor support behavior, psychological empowerment, and feedback-seeking behavior. Data was collected from 607 newly hired employees working in the Indian IT industry and was analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The article highlights that supportive supervisors can encourage new employees to seek feedback and help them to ‘fit into' the organization. Managerial implications suggest that organizations conduct training programs to make managers more approachable and available for new recruits during their early days to ensure adjustment and engagement in the organization.
The Mediation of Psychological Capital in the Relationship of Perceived Organizational Support, Engagement and Extra-Role Performance
Authors: Shaheen Musarrat , Krishnankutty Raveesh
Published: September 2018

Organizations become vulnerable to the loss of the tacit and explicit knowledge when employees leave the organization. To mitigate this loss, organizations adopt flexible labor model, where employees are managed as flexible workers. But, engaging these workers becomes another challenge for the organization, as due to limited interaction they are less attached with the organization. Data is collected from 212 insurance agents of India and structural equation modeling (SEM) was done to analyse the responses. The results obtained indicated a significant positive influence of perceived organizational support (POS) on work engagement level and the extra-role performance behaviors (ERB) of the flexible workers. Personal resources of employees (i.e., psychological capital) that aids in positive evaluation of a situation is found mediating the influence of POS on work engagement and ERB. Present study is among the few studies that provide avenues to keep flexible workers engaged and motivated towards ERBs in knowledge intensive organizations.