bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Joining Behavior of Titanium and Q235 Steel Joined by Cold Metal Transfer Joining Technology
Authors: Chang Jinghuan , Cao Rui , Yan Yingjie
Published: July 2019

Cold metal transfer process is applied to join titanium and Q235 steel with copper filler metal. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analysis, micro-hardness tests, and tensile strength test were performed to investigate the joining mechanism and strength of joints. The results show that the stacking order of two base metals affected the joining modes and strength. For top Q235 steel to bottom Ti-TA2 lapped joint, there was no distinct interface reaction layer between the steel base metal and the weld metal; dispersed TiFe2 intermetalics (IMCs) IMCs between the steel base metal and the Ti base metal greatly improved the strength of joint; the tensile force of the joint could reach up to 93% that of steel-steel joint using the same welding parameters. Additionally, the joints were fractured in dimple mode at the steel base metal. For top Ti-TA2 to bottom Q235 steel lapped joint, the increasing volume fraction of Ti-Cu IMCs at the Ti-Cu weld metal interface contributed to the strength of joint degradation. The joints under tensile loading are initiated at the Ti-Cu weld metal interface between the weld metal and Ti base metal, then propagated to weld metal, finally fractured with brittle mode.
Influence of Different Modifiers on Bonding Strength and Rheological Performance of Bitumen Emulsion
Authors: Pan Changluan , Liang Deqiang , Mo Liantong , Riara Martin , Lin Juntao
Published: July 2019

Styrene butadiene rubber latex (SBR), waterborne epoxy adhesive (WE) and colloidal silica sol (SiO2) were used to prepare modified bitumen emulsion for cold mix asphalt. The modification effects of the individual modifiers and the combination of these modifiers were investigated by using bonding strength and dynamic shear rheological property. Test results showed that the modifier dosage helped to balance the performance of modified bitumen emulsion by improving its bonding strength without compromising its rheological properties. The critical dosage at which the peak bonding strength occurred was 4%, 12% and 4% for SBR, WE and SiO2 respectively. Improved rheological performance on the master curves was well distinguished, in particular, by increased complex modulus and reduced phase angle at the low frequency region. Abrupt changes, especially on phase angle occurred when the modifier dosage was beyond 12%. The measured ratio between bonding strength and complex shear modulus could vary ranging from 10−2 to 102. Highly-modified bitumen emulsion with good adhesion, rheology and compatibility can be prepared by using the combination of SBR, WE and SiO2. It is important to carefully select the type and dosage of modifier for a particular combination to optimize the performance of modified bitumen emulsion.
The Bioconversion of Sewage Sludge to Bio-Fuel: The Environmental and Economic Benefits
Authors: Smoliński Adam , Karwot Janusz , Bondaruk Jan , Bąk Andrzej
Published: July 2019

This paper aims to analyze the economic feasibility of generating a novel, innovative biofuel—bioenergy—obtained from deposit bio-components by means of a pilot installation of sewage sludge bio-conversion. Fuel produced from sewage sludge biomass bears the potential of being considered a renewable energy source. In the present study, 23 bioconversion cycles were conducted taking into consideration the different contents, types of high carbohydrate additives, moisture content of the mixture as well as the shape of the bed elements. The biofuel was produced using post fermentation sewage sludge for industrial energy and heat generation. Based on the presented research it was concluded that the composite biofuel can be co-combusted with hard coal with the optimal percentage share within the range of 20–30% w/w. Sewage sludge stabilized by means of anaerobic digestion carried out in closed fermentation chambers is the final product. The average values of the CO2, CO, NO, NOx and SO2 concentrations in flue gas from co-combustion of a bioconversion product (20% w/w) and coal were 5.43%, 1903 ppm, 300 ppm, 303 ppm and 179 ppm, respectively. In total, within a period of 4.5 years of the plant operation, 1853 Mg of fuel was produced and successfully co-combusted with coal in a power plant. The research demonstrated that in the waste water treatment sector there exists energy potential in terms of calorific value which translates into tangible benefits both in the context of energy generation as well as environmental protection. Over 700,000 Mg of bio-sewage sludge is generated annually in Poland. According to findings of the study presented in the paper, the proposed solution could give 970,000 Mg of dry mass of biomass qualified as energy biomass replacing fossil fuels.
Imaging Aluminum Particles in Solid-Propellant Flames Using 5 kHz LIF of Al Atoms
Authors: Vilmart Gautier , Dorval Nelly , Devillers Robin , Fabignon Yves , Attal-Trétout Brigitte , Bresson Alexandre
Published: July 2019

Laser-induced fluorescence imaging of aluminum atoms (Al-PLIF) is used to analyze the spatio-temporal behavior of aluminized solid propellant combustion. Using alternating LIF and chemiluminescence emission images of the particles in the gaseous and liquid phase evolving close to and far above the dynamically varying propellant surface, sequences of images were recorded and analyzed. The good sensitivity achieved enabled us to track the dynamics of the flame in the vicinity of particles detected all along the flame extension and up to 1.5 MPa. Analysis of wide-field images enabled droplet velocity measurements due to the high LIF sampling rate (5 kHz). The observed typical plume structures were in good agreement with alumina-formation prediction and previous shadowgraphy visualization. High-resolution sequences of images showed gaseous distribution behavior around the molten particles. The Al vapor phase was thus found to extend between 3 and 6.5 radii around the particles. Particle detachment dynamics were captured just above the propellant surface.
Targeted Adaptable Sample for Accurate and Efficient Quantile Estimation in Non-Stationary Data Streams
Authors: Arandjelović Ognjen
Published: July 2019

The need to detect outliers or otherwise unusual data, which can be formalized as the estimation a particular quantile of a distribution, is an important problem that frequently arises in a variety of applications of pattern recognition, computer vision and signal processing. For example, our work was most proximally motivated by the practical limitations and requirements of many semi-automatic surveillance analytics systems that detect abnormalities in closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage using statistical models of low-level motion features. In this paper, we specifically address the problem of estimating the running quantile of a data stream with non-stationary stochasticity when the absolute (rather than asymptotic) memory for storing observations is severely limited. We make several major contributions: (i) we derive an important theoretical result that shows that the change in the quantile of a stream is constrained regardless of the stochastic properties of data; (ii) we describe a set of high-level design goals for an effective estimation algorithm that emerge as a consequence of our theoretical findings; (iii) we introduce a novel algorithm that implements the aforementioned design goals by retaining a sample of data values in a manner adaptive to changes in the distribution of data and progressively narrowing down its focus in the periods of quasi-stationary stochasticity; and (iv) we present a comprehensive evaluation of the proposed algorithm and compare it with the existing methods in the literature on both synthetic datasets and three large “real-world” streams acquired in the course of operation of an existing commercial surveillance system. Our results and their detailed analysis convincingly and comprehensively demonstrate that the proposed method is highly successful and vastly outperforms the existing alternatives, especially when the target quantile is high-valued and the available buffer capacity severely limited.
A Novel Marine Natural Product Derived Pyrroloiminoquinone with Potent Activity against Skin Cancer Cells
Authors: Cowan Jaden , Shadab Mohammad , Nadkarni Dwayaja H. , KC Kailash , Velu Sadanandan E. , Yusuf Nabiha
Published: July 2019

Non-melanoma skin cancer is one of the major ailments in the United States. Effective drugs that can cure skin cancers are limited. Moreover, the available drugs have toxic side effects. Therefore, skin cancer drugs with less toxic side effects are urgently needed. To achieve this goal, we focused our work on identifying potent lead compounds from marine natural products. Five lead compounds identified from a class of pyrroloiminoquinone natural products were evaluated for their ability to selectively kill squamous cell carcinoma (SCC13) skin cancer cells using an MTT assay. The toxicity of these compounds was also evaluated against the normal human keratinocyte HaCaT cell line. The most potent compound identified from these studies, C278 was further evaluated for its ability to inhibit cancer cell migration and invasion using a wound-healing assay and a trans-well migration assay, respectively. To investigate the molecular mechanism of cell death, the expression of apoptotic and autophagy proteins was studied in C278 treated cells compared to untreated cells using western blot. Our results showed that all five compounds effectively killed the SCC13 cells, with compound C278 being the most effective. Compound C278 was more effective in killing the SCC13 cells compared to HaCaT cells with a two-fold selectivity. The migration and the invasion of the SCC13 cells were also inhibited upon treatment with compound C278. The expression of pro-apoptotic and autophagy proteins with concomitant downregulation in the expression of survival proteins were observed in C278 treated cells. In summary, the marine natural product analog compound C278 showed promising anticancer activity against human skin cancer cells and holds potential to be developed as an effective anticancer agent to combat skin cancer.
Eckol Inhibits Particulate Matter 2.5-Induced Skin Keratinocyte Damage via MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhen Ao Xuan , Hyun Yu Jae , Piao Mei Jing , Fernando Pincha Devage Sameera Madushan , Kang Kyoung Ah , Ahn Mee Jung , Yi Joo Mi , Kang Hee Kyoung , Koh Young Sang , Lee Nam Ho , Hyun Jin Won
Published: July 2019

Toxicity of particulate matter (PM) towards the epidermis has been well established in many epidemiological studies. It is manifested in cancer, aging, and skin damage. In this study, we aimed to show the mechanism underlying the protective effects of eckol, a phlorotannin isolated from brown seaweed, on human HaCaT keratinocytes against PM2.5-induced cell damage. First, to elucidate the underlying mechanism of toxicity of PM2.5, we checked the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, which contributed significantly to cell damage. Experimental data indicate that excessive ROS caused damage to lipids, proteins, and DNA and induced mitochondrial dysfunction. Furthermore, eckol (30 μM) decreased ROS generation, ensuring the stability of molecules, and maintaining a steady mitochondrial state. The western blot analysis showed that PM2.5 promoted apoptosis-related protein levels and activated MAPK signaling pathway, whereas eckol protected cells from apoptosis by inhibiting MAPK signaling pathway. This was further reinforced by detailed investigations using MAPK inhibitors. Thus, our results demonstrated that inhibition of PM2.5-induced cell apoptosis by eckol was through MAPK signaling pathway. In conclusion, eckol could protect skin HaCaT cells from PM2.5-induced apoptosis via inhibiting ROS generation.
Low-Carbohydrate Diets for Gestational Diabetes
Authors: Farabi Sarah S. , Hernandez Teri L.
Published: July 2019

Nutrition therapy provides the foundation for treatment of gestational diabetes (GDM), and has historically been based on restricting carbohydrate (CHO) intake. In this paper, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are reviewed to assess the effects of both low- and higher CHO nutrition approaches in GDM. The prevailing pattern across the evidence underscores that although CHO restriction improves glycemia at least in the short-term, similar outcomes could be achievable using less restrictive approaches that may not exacerbate IR. The quality of existing studies is limited, in part due to dietary non-adherence and confounding effects of treatment with insulin or oral medication. Recent evidence suggests that modified nutritional manipulation in GDM from usual intake, including but not limited to CHO restriction, improves maternal glucose and lowers infant birthweight. This creates a platform for future studies to further clarify the impact of multiple nutritional patterns in GDM on both maternal and infant outcomes.
Glutathione Transferase P1-1 an Enzyme Useful in Biomedicine and as Biomarker in Clinical Practice and in Environmental Pollution
Authors: Bocedi Alessio , Noce Annalisa , Marrone Giulia , Noce Gianluca , Cattani Giada , Gambardella Giorgia , Di Lauro Manuela , Di Daniele Nicola , Ricci Giorgio
Published: July 2019

Glutathione transferase P1-1 (GSTP1-1) is expressed in some human tissues and is abundant in mammalian erythrocytes (here termed e-GST). This enzyme is able to detoxify the cell from endogenous and exogenous toxic compounds by using glutathione (GSH) or by acting as a ligandin. This review collects studies that propose GSTP1-1 as a useful biomarker in different fields of application. The most relevant studies are focused on GSTP1-1 as a biosensor to detect blood toxicity in patients affected by kidney diseases. In fact, this detoxifying enzyme is over-expressed in erythrocytes when unusual amounts of toxins are present in the body. Here we review articles concerning the level of GST in chronic kidney disease patients, in maintenance hemodialysis patients and to assess dialysis adequacy. GST is also over-expressed in autoimmune disease like scleroderma, and in kidney transplant patients and it may be used to check the efficiency of transplanted kidneys. The involvement of GSTP in the oxidative stress and in other human pathologies like cancer, liver and neurodegenerative diseases, and psychiatric disorders is also reported. Promising applications of e-GST discussed in the present review are its use for monitoring human subjects living in polluted areas and mammals for veterinary purpose.
A Randomized Double-Blind, Cross-Over Trial of very Low-Calorie Diet in Overweight Migraine Patients: A Possible Role for Ketones?
Authors: Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Pinto Alessandro , Ienca Roberta , Coppola Gianluca , Sirianni Giulio , Di Lorenzo Giorgio , Parisi Vincenzo , Serrao Mariano , Spagnoli Alessandra , Vestri Annarita , Schoenen Jean , Donini Lorenzo M , Pierelli Francesco
Published: July 2019

Here we aimed at determining the therapeutic effect of a very low-calorie diet in overweight episodic migraine patients during a weight-loss intervention in which subjects alternated randomly between a very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) and a very low-calorie non-ketogenic diet (VLCnKD) each for one month. In a nutritional program, 35 overweight obese migraine sufferers were allocated blindly to 1-month successive VLCKD or VLCnKD in random order (VLCKD-VLCnKD or VLCnKD-VLCD). The primary outcome measure was the reduction of migraine days each month compared to a 1-month pre-diet baseline. Secondary outcome measures were 50% responder rate for migraine days, reduction of monthly migraine attacks, abortive drug intake and body mass index (BMI) change. Only data from the intention-to-treat cohort (n = 35) will be presented. Patients who dropped out (n = 6) were considered as treatment failures. Regarding the primary outcome, during the VLCKD patients experienced −3.73 (95% CI: −5.31, −2.15) migraine days respect to VLCnKD (p < 0.0001). The 50% responder rate for migraine days was 74.28% (26/35 patients) during the VLCKD period, but only 8.57% (3/35 patients) during VLCnKD. Migraine attacks decreased by −3.02 (95% CI: −4.15, −1.88) during VLCKD respect to VLCnKD (p < 0.00001). There were no differences in the change of acute anti-migraine drug consumption (p = 0.112) and BMI (p = 0.354) between the 2 diets. A VLCKD has a preventive effect in overweight episodic migraine patients that appears within 1 month, suggesting that ketogenesis may be a useful therapeutic strategy for migraines.
Volatiles Profile of the Floral Organs of a New Hybrid Cymbidium, ‘Sunny Bell’ Using Headspace Solid-Phase Microextraction Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Authors: Baek Yun-Su , Ramya Mummadireddy , An Hye-Ryun , Park Pil-Man , Lee Su-Young , Baek Nam-In , Park Pue-Hee
Published: July 2019

Cymbidium is one of the most important genera of flowering plants in the Orchidaceae family, and comprises a wide variety of beautiful and colorful species. Among these, only a few species possess floral scents and flavors. In order to increase the availability of a new Cymbidum hybrid, “Sunny Bell”, this study investigated the volatile floral scents. Volatiles of the floral organs of the new Cymbidium hybrid, “Sunny Bell”, at the full-flowering stage were characterized with headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) analysis. A divinylbenzene-carboxen-polydimethylsiloxane (DVB-CAR-PDMS) fiber gave the best extraction for volatile components. Twenty-three components were identified as the main volatiles for the floral organs of the new Cymbidium hybrid, “Sunny Bell” at the full-flowering stage; twelve compounds in the column, sixteen compounds in the labellum, eleven compounds in the sepals, and nine compounds in the petals were identified. Terpenes are the major source of floral scents in this plant. As a result of GC-MS analysis, the most abundant compound was linalool (69–80%) followed by α-pinene (3–27%), 4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene (5–18%), eucalyptol (6–16%), and 2,6-dimethylnonane (2–16%). The main components were identified as monoterpenes in the petals and sepals, and as monoterpenes and aliphatics in the column and labellum. The results of this study provide a basis for breeding Cymbidium cultivars which exhibit desirable floral scents.
Parametric Analysis of Electrical Conductivity of Polymer-Composites
Authors: Folorunso Oladipo , Hamam Yskandar , Sadiku Rotimi , Ray Suprakas Sinha , Joseph Adekoya Gbolahan
Published: July 2019

The problem associated with mixtures of fillers and polymers is that they result in mechanical degradation of the material (polymer) as the filler content increases. This problem will increase the weight of the material and manufacturing cost. For this reason, experimentation on the electrical conductivities of the polymer-composites (PCs) is not enough to research their electrical properties; models have to be adopted to solve the encountered challenges. Hitherto, several models by previous researchers have been developed and proposed, with each utilizing different design parameters. It is imperative to carry out analysis on these models so that the suitable one is identified. This paper indeed carried out a comprehensive parametric analysis on the existing electrical conductivity models for polymer composites. The analysis involves identification of the parameters that best predict the electrical conductivity of polymer composites for energy storage, viz: (batteries and capacitor), sensors, electronic device components, fuel cell electrodes, automotive, medical instrumentation, cathode scanners, solar cell, and military surveillance gadgets applications. The analysis showed that the existing models lack sufficient parametric ability to determine accurately the electrical conductivity of polymer-composites.
A Review on Reverse Osmosis and Nanofiltration Membranes for Water Purification
Authors: Yang Zi , Zhou Yi , Feng Zhiyuan , Rui Xiaobo , Zhang Tong , Zhang Zhien
Published: July 2019

Sustainable and affordable supply of clean, safe, and adequate water is one of the most challenging issues facing the world. Membrane separation technology is one of the most cost-effective and widely applied technologies for water purification. Polymeric membranes such as cellulose-based (CA) membranes and thin-film composite (TFC) membranes have dominated the industry since 1980. Although further development of polymeric membranes for better performance is laborious, the research findings and sustained progress in inorganic membrane development have grown fast and solve some remaining problems. In addition to conventional ceramic metal oxide membranes, membranes prepared by graphene oxide (GO), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and mixed matrix materials (MMMs) have attracted enormous attention due to their desirable properties such as tunable pore structure, excellent chemical, mechanical, and thermal tolerance, good salt rejection and/or high water permeability. This review provides insight into synthesis approaches and structural properties of recent reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membranes which are used to retain dissolved species such as heavy metals, electrolytes, and inorganic salts in various aqueous solutions. A specific focus has been placed on introducing and comparing water purification performance of different classes of polymeric and ceramic membranes in related water treatment industries. Furthermore, the development challenges and research opportunities of organic and inorganic membranes are discussed and the further perspectives are analyzed.
Asymmetry Analysis of the Resonance Curve in Resonant Integrated Optical Gyroscopes
Authors: He Yu Ming , Yang Fu Hua , Yan Wei , Han Wei Hua , Li Zhao Feng
Published: July 2019

The Resonant Integrated Optic Gyroscope (RIOG) is a type of high accuracy gyroscope based on the Sagnac effect. A symmetrical resonance curve is very important to the performance of the RIOG. To further investigate and design a RIOG with a waveguide ring resonator, an in-depth research of the asymmetric resonance curve and its influence on the RIOG is fully developed. Four possible optical noises inducing the resonance curve asymmetry are analyzed and their mathematic models are established. These four optical noises are the normal mode effect, the backscattering noise, the backreflection noise and the polarization noise. Any asymmetry of the resonance curve will not only induce a large output bias error into the gyro output, but also seriously decrease the frequency discrimination parameter of the demodulation curve. By using a tunable fiber laser, the high aspect ratio silicon nitride WRR and the silicon dioxide WRR were tested. The experiment measured resonance curves can be well fitted with the theoretical simulation results. The experimental results show that a high aspect ratio silicon nitride waveguide can effectively suppress the polarization noise in the RIOG.
Removal of Motion Artifacts in Photoplethysmograph Sensors during Intensive Exercise for Accurate Heart Rate Calculation Based on Frequency Estimation and Notch Filtering
Authors: Wang Min , Li Zhe , Zhang Qirui , Wang Guoxing
Published: July 2019

With photoplethysmograph (PPG) sensors showing increasing potential in wearable health monitoring, the challenging problem of motion artifact (MA) removal during intensive exercise has become a popular research topic. In this study, a novel method that combines heart rate frequency (HRF) estimation and notch filtering is proposed. The proposed method applies a cascaded adaptive noise cancellation (ANC) based on the least mean squares (LMS)-Newton algorithm for preliminary motion artifacts reduction, and further adopts special heart rate frequency tracking and correction schemes for accurate HRF estimation. Finally, notch filters are employed to restore the PPG signal with estimated HRF based on its quasi-periodicity. On an open source data set that features intensive running exercise, the proposed method achieves a competitive mean average absolute error (AAE) result of 0.92 bpm for HR estimation. The practical experiments are carried out with the PPG evaluation platform developed by ourselves. Under three different intensive motion patterns, a 0.89 bpm average AAE result is achieved with the average correlation coefficient between recovered PPG signal and reference PPG signal reaching 0.86. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for accurate HR estimation and robust MA removal in PPG during intensive exercise.
Thermal Imager Range: Predictions, Expectations, and Reality
Authors: Perić Dragana , Livada Branko , Perić Miroslav , Vujić Saša
Published: July 2019

Imaging system range defines the maximal distance at which a selected object can be seen and perceived following surveillance task perception criteria. Thermal imagers play a key role in long-range surveillance systems due to the ability to form images during the day or night and in adverse weather conditions. The thermal imager range depends on imager design parameters, scene and transmission path properties. Imager range prediction is supported by theoretical models that provide the ability to check range performance, compare range performances for different systems, extend range prediction in field conditions, and support laboratory measurements related to range. A condensed review of the theoretical model’s genesis and capabilities is presented. We applied model-based performance calculation for several thermal imagers used in our long-range surveillance systems and compared the results with laboratory performance measurement results with the intention of providing the range prediction in selected field conditions. The key objective of the paper is to provide users with reliable data regarding expectations during a field mission.
On Exact Outage and Throughput Performance of Cognitive Radio based Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Networks With and Without D2D Link
Authors: Do Dinh-Thuan , Le Anh-Tu , Le Chi-Bao , Lee Byung Moo
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we investigate the performance of a secondary network in a cognitive radio network employing a non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) scheme to form a CR-NOMA system serving many destination users. In the secondary network of our proposed system, a device-to-device (D2D) scheme is deployed to further provide the signal transmission at a close distance of NOMA users in downlink, and such performance is evaluated under the situation of interference reception from the primary network. An outage performance gap exists among these NOMA users since different power allocation factors are assigned to the different destinations. Unlike existing NOMA schemes that consider fixed power allocation factors, which are not optimal in terms of outage performance, our proposed paradigm exhibits optimal outage in the scenario of D2D transmission. In particular, the outage performances in two kinds of schemes in term of existence of D2D link are further achieved. Simulation results validate the analytical expressions, and show the advantage of each scheme in the proposed CR-NOMA system based on outage performance and throughput.
Enhanced Binding Efficiency of Microcantilever Biosensor for the Detection of Yersinia
Authors: Liu Xiaochen , Wang Lihao , Zhao Junyuan , Zhu Yinfang , Yang Jinling , Yang Fuhua
Published: July 2019

A novel microcantilever sensor was batch fabricated for Yersinia detection. The microcantilever surface modification method was optimized by introducing a secondary antibody to increase the number of binding sites. A novel microfluidic platform was designed and fabricated successfully. A 30 μL solution could fully react with the microcantilever surface. Those routines enhanced the binding efficiency between the target and receptor on the microcantilever. With this novel designed microfluidic platform, the specific adsorption of 107 Yersinia on the beam surface with modified F1 antibody was significantly enhanced.
On the Performance of Energy Harvesting Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Relaying System with Imperfect Channel State Information over Rayleigh Fading Channels
Authors: Hoang Tran Manh , Van Nguyen Le , Nguyen Ba Cao , Dung Le The
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we propose a non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) relaying system, where a source node communicates simultaneously with multiple users via the assistance of the best amplify-and-forward (AF) relay. The best relay is selected among N relays which are capable of harvesting the energy from radio frequency (RF) signals. We analyze the performance of the proposed NOMA relaying system in the conditions of imperfect channel state information (CSI) and Rayleigh fading by deriving the exact expressions of the outage probability (OP) and the approximate expression of the ergodic capacities of each user and the whole system. We also determine the optimal energy harvesting duration which minimizes the OP. Numerical results show that, for the same parameter settings, the performance of the proposed NOMA relaying system, especially the ergodic capacity of the whole system, outperforms that of the orthogonal-multiple-access (OMA) relaying system. Monte-Carlo simulations are used to validate the correctness of the analytical results.
Keeping People in Place: Political Factors of (Im)mobility and Climate Change
Authors: Zickgraf Caroline
Published: July 2019

While those ‘trapped’ or who choose to stay in areas affected by climate change represent a substantial policy issue, there only a small amount of empirical work specifically targeting such populations. The scant attention that is afforded to immobility often emphasizes financial constraints as factors driving (involuntary) immobility. As an essential part of the mobility spectrum, the complexity of immobility in crisis, including its political dimensions, warrants thorough investigation. In response to these gaps, this contribution locates environmental immobility within mobilities studies, its conceptual complexities, and, finally, illustrates the importance of political factors in shaping (im)mobilities. The findings are based on semi-structured interviews conducted in two developing countries experiencing the impacts of climate change. We delve into the socio-cultural and economic nature of (im)mobilities as they interact with political forces, specifically by exploring international bilateral agreements (Senegal) and a relocation program (Vietnam). In political spaces that are dominated by a desire to limit human mobility and (re)produce stasis, we challenge traditional dichotomies between mobile/immobile and sedentary/migration polices by underlining how policy interventions can simultaneously promote mobility and immobility, demonstrating complex co-existing mobilities. Keeping people in place can, in fact, mean allowing the very same people to move.
Livelihood, Market and State: What does A Political Economy Predicated on the ‘Individual-in-Group-in-PLACE’ Actually Look Like?
Authors: Quilley Stephen , Zywert Katharine
Published: July 2019

Ecological economics has relied too much on priorities and institutional conventions defined by the high energy/throughput era of social democracy. Future research should focus on the political economy of a survival unit (Elias) based upon Livelihood as counterbalance to both State and Market. Drawing on the work of Polanyi, Elias, Gellner and Ong, capitalist modernization is analyzed in terms of the emergence of a society of individuals and the replacement of the survival units of place-bound bound family and community by one in which the State acts in concert with the Market. The operation of welfare systems is shown to depend upon ongoing economic growth and a continual flow of fiscal resources. The politics of this survival unit depends upon high levels of mutual identification and an affective-cognitive ‘we imaginary’. Increasing diversity, a political rejection of nationalism as a basis for politics and limits to economic growth, are likely to present an existential threat to the State–Market survival unit. A reversal of globalization, reconsolidation of the nation-state, a reduction in the scope of national and global markets and the expansion of informal processes of manufacture and distribution may provide a plausible basis for a hybrid Livelihood–Market–State survival unit. The politics of such a reorientation would straddle the existing left–right divide in disruptive and unsettling ways. Examples are given of pre-figurative forms of reciprocation and association that may be indicative of future arrangements.
The Effect of Different Concrete Designs on the Life-Cycle Assessment of the Environmental Impacts of Concretes Containing Furnace Bottom-Ash Instead of Sand
Authors: Pushkar Svetlana
Published: July 2019

The results of life-cycle assessments (LCAs) of concrete are highly dependent on the concrete design method. In this study, LCAs were conducted to evaluate the environmental impacts of the replacement of sand with furnace bottom-ash (FBA) in concrete. In the FBA-based concretes, sand was replaced with FBA at proportions of 0, 30, 50, 70, and 100 wt%. Two design methods were studied: (i) concrete with fixed slump ranges of 0–10 mm (CON-fix-SLUMP-0-10) and 30–60 mm (CON-fix-SLUMP-30-60); and (ii) concrete with fixed water/cement (W/C) ratios of 0.45 (CON-fix-W/C-0.45) and 0.55 (CON-fix-W/C-0.55). The ReCiPe2016 midpoint and single-score (six methodological options) methods were used to compare the environmental damage caused by the FBA-based concretes. A two-stage nested (hierarchical) analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to simultaneously evaluate the results of six ReCiPe2016 methodologies. The ReCiPe2016 results indicate that replacing sand with FBA decreased the environmental impact of the concretes with fixed slump ranges and increased the environmental impact of the concretes with fixed W/C ratios. Therefore, using FBA as a partial sand replacement in concrete production is of debatable utility, as its impact highly depends on the concrete design method used.
The Dynamic Effect of High-Tech Industries’ R&D Investment on Energy Consumption
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Huang Xinjian , Chen Weiliang
Published: July 2019

High-tech industries are characterized by strong technology, low energy consumption, and low pollution. Among these high-tech industries, five sectors (pharmaceutical industry, aerospace industry, electronic and communication equipment industry, computer and office equipment industry, and medical equipment industry) are selected for our study; and R&D investment is an important support for the development of high-tech industries. How do research and development (R&D) investments affect energy consumption in high-tech industries? Are these effects all positive? What are the differences in the impacts for different types of high-tech sectors or in different regions? And why? To analyze these issues, state space mode is an appropriate method which presented a dynamic process, accurately estimating the parameters at each time nod. We used this model to analyze the impact of five high-tech sectors’ research and development (R&D) investments on energy consumption in the four regions of China from 1998 to 2016. Some conclusions are drawn from the research: (1) Pharmaceutical industry has a negative influence on energy consumption in all regions. Compared with other types of high-tech industries, the pharmaceutical industry consumes a higher degree of energy. (2) In the east, middle, and northeast of China, a gap remains between scientific research and production due to the lack of high-tech personnel in the aerospace industry, which lead to a weak effects on energy consumption in these regions (3) For the electronic and communication equipment industry and computer and office equipment industry, the continuous inflow of funds and talent has led to greater competition pressure and excess production capacity in some developed areas. This accounts for the fact that the two industries’ R&D investment is beneficial to the reduction of energy consumption in the western regions. (4) The densely populated eastern region has a large demand for health services, leading to an increased demand for medical equipment. That is why the R&D of medical equipment industry have significantly reduced the energy consumption in the east regions than in the other regions.
Bottom-Up Proteomic Analysis of Polypeptide Venom Components of the Giant Ant Dinoponera Quadriceps
Authors: Ceolin Mariano Douglas Oscar , de Oliveira Úrsula Castro , Zaharenko André Junqueira , Pimenta Daniel Carvalho , Rádis-Baptista Gandhi , Prieto-da-Silva Álvaro Rossan de Brandão
Published: July 2019

Ant species have specialized venom systems developed to sting and inoculate a biological cocktail of organic compounds, including peptide and polypeptide toxins, for the purpose of predation and defense. The genus Dinoponera comprises predatory giant ants that inoculate venom capable of causing long-lasting local pain, involuntary shaking, lymphadenopathy, and cardiac arrhythmias, among other symptoms. To deepen our knowledge about venom composition with regard to protein toxins and their roles in the chemical–ecological relationship and human health, we performed a bottom-up proteomics analysis of the crude venom of the giant ant D. quadriceps, popularly known as the “false” tocandiras. For this purpose, we used two different analytical approaches: (i) gel-based proteomics approach, wherein the crude venom was resolved by denaturing sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and all protein bands were excised for analysis; (ii) solution-based proteomics approach, wherein the crude venom protein components were directly fragmented into tryptic peptides in solution for analysis. The proteomic data that resulted from these two methodologies were compared against a previously annotated transcriptomic database of D. quadriceps, and subsequently, a homology search was performed for all identified transcript products. The gel-based proteomics approach unequivocally identified nine toxins of high molecular mass in the venom, as for example, enzymes [hyaluronidase, phospholipase A1, dipeptidyl peptidase and glucose dehydrogenase/flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) quinone] and diverse venom allergens (homologous of the red fire ant Selenopsis invicta) and venom-related proteins (major royal jelly-like). Moreover, the solution-based proteomics revealed and confirmed the presence of several hydrolases, oxidoreductases, proteases, Kunitz-like polypeptides, and the less abundant inhibitor cysteine knot (ICK)-like (knottin) neurotoxins and insect defensin. Our results showed that the major components of the D. quadriceps venom are toxins that are highly likely to damage cell membranes and tissue, to cause neurotoxicity, and to induce allergic reactions, thus, expanding the knowledge about D. quadriceps venom composition and its potential biological effects on prey and victims.
Identification and Phylogenetic Characterization of Human Enteroviruses Isolated from Cases of Aseptic Meningitis in Brazil, 2013–2017
Authors: Ramalho Emanuelle , Sousa Ivanildo , Burlandy Fernanda , Costa Eliane , Dias Amanda , Serrano Roseane , Oliveira Maria , Lopes Renato , Debur Maria , Burger Marion , Riediger Irina , Oliveira Maria L. , Nascimento Osvaldo , da Silva Edson E.
Published: July 2019

Aseptic meningitis is a common viral infection associated with human enteroviruses. The aim of the present study was to identify and characterize the enteroviruses associated with outbreaks and sporadic cases of aseptic meningitis that occurred in different regions of Brazil between 2013 and 2017. Cerebrospinal fluids obtained from patients admitted to public health facilities were analyzed. A total of 303 patients were positive for Human Enteroviruses (EV) by cell culture isolation with a median isolation rate throughout the year of 12%. We were able to identify enterovirus serotypes in 295 clinical specimens. Nineteen different serotypes were identified; the large majority corresponded to HEV-B species. Echovirus 30 (E-30) and Echovirus 6 (E-6) were the most prevalent genotypes (66.8%). Sequence analysis suggested that circulating E-30 was closely related to E-30 from other American countries; while E-6 was derived from Europe. Most of the patients consisted of children ≤ 15 years old. The temporal distribution of all aseptic meningitis and EV-positive cases showed an obvious seasonal pattern during autumn. Our results have provided valuable information about the enteroviral etiology of the aseptic meningitis cases in Brazil pointing to the importance of enterovirus surveillance in neurological diseases.
Treatment of High-Strength Animal Industrial Wastewater Using Photo-Assisted Fenton Oxidation Coupled to Photocatalytic Technology
Authors: Park Jae Hong , Shin Dong Seok , Lee Jae Kwan
Published: July 2019

Animal wastewater is one of the wastewaters that has a color and is difficult to treat because it contains a large amount of non-degradable organic materials. The photo-assisted Fenton oxidation technique was applied to treat animal wastewater, and the optimal conditions of chemical oxygen demands (COD) removal were analyzed according to changes in pH, ferrous ion, H2O2, and ultraviolet (UV) light intensity as a single experimental condition. Experimental results showed that, under the single-factor experimental conditions, the optimal conditions for degradation of animal wastewater were pH 3.5, Fe(II) 0.01 M, H2O2 0.1 M, light intensity 3.524 mW/m2. Under the optimal conditions, COD removal efficiency was 91%, sludge production was 2.5 mL from 100 mL of solution, color removal efficiency was 80%, and coliform removal efficiency was 99.5%.
The Use of Algae and Fungi for Removal of Pharmaceuticals by Bioremediation and Biosorption Processes: A Review
Authors: Silva Andreia , Delerue-Matos Cristina , Figueiredo Sónia , Freitas Olga
Published: July 2019

The occurrence and fate of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is recognized as one of the emerging issues in environmental chemistry. Conventional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are not designed to remove pharmaceuticals (and their metabolites) from domestic wastewaters. The treatability of pharmaceutical compounds in WWTPs varies considerably depending on the type of compound since their biodegradability can differ significantly. As a consequence, they may reach the aquatic environment, directly or by leaching of the sludge produced by these facilities. Currently, the technologies under research for the removal of pharmaceuticals, namely membrane technologies and advanced oxidation processes, have high operation costs related to energy and chemical consumption. When chemical reactions are involved, other aspects to consider include the formation of harmful reaction by-products and the management of the toxic sludge produced. Research is needed in order to develop economic and sustainable treatment processes, such as bioremediation and biosorption. The use of low-cost materials, such as biological matrices (e.g., algae and fungi), has advantages such as low capital investment, easy operation, low operation costs, and the non-formation of degradation by-products. An extensive review of existing research on this subject is presented.
Multiple Effects of Intense Meteorological Events in the Benevento Province, Southern Italy
Authors: Revellino Paola , Guerriero Luigi , Mascellaro Neri , Fiorillo Francesco , Grelle Gerardo , Ruzza Giuseppe , Guadagno Francesco M.
Published: July 2019

In October 2015, two intense rainfall events hit the central and southern regions of Italy and triggered a combination of different and widespread effects, including floods, landslides, and soil erosion. These outcomes devastated about 68 municipalities of the Benevento province (Campania region), killed two people, and caused millions of euros worth of damage to structures, infrastructures, and agriculture. The town of Benevento was one of the sectors most affected by overflow. Extensive areas characterized by flyschoid outcrops experienced widespread occurrences of soil erosion and landslides, and destructive, high-velocity debris flows (about 50) afflicted areas that had experienced heavy rainfall of higher intensity (total rainfall of 415.6 mm). In this study, the characteristics of these rainfall events and related geomorphological processes were determined by (i) analyzing the available rainfall data to identify the spatial pattern, distribution, and statistical characteristics of the two storms and (ii) mapping the storm effects, such as flooded areas, landslide types, and soil erosion. These effects were then related to the spatial distribution of the storms and the local geological and geomorphologic settings that drove their initiation and development.
Hydraulic Behavior of Karst Aquifers
Authors: Fiorillo Francesco , Malik Peter
Published: July 2019

The objective of this Special Issue, “Hydraulic Behavior of Karst Aquifers”, is to focus on recent advances in karst hydrogeology in different areas of the world, focusing on topics dealing with the peculiar characteristics of karst aquifers. In particular, thirteen peer-reviewed articles were collected, focusing on hydraulic aspects and their relationship with geological features, geochemical and bacteriological aspects, tunneling and engineering mining inrush, and forecasting water resources and drought occurrences. Overall, these contributions describe several aspects of karst aquifers and are of great value for water resource management and protection.
Potential Use of Biochar from Various Waste Biomass as Biosorbent in Co(II) Removal Processes
Authors: Lucaci Alina Roxana , Bulgariu Dumitru , Ahmad Iftikhar , Lisă Gabriela , Mocanu Anca Mihaela , Bulgariu Laura
Published: July 2019

The removal of Co(II) ions from aqueous media was done using three types of biochars obtained from algae waste biomass, mustard waste biomass, and soy waste biomass. The biochar samples were obtained by pyrolysis of waste biomass resulted from biofules production, at relative low temperature (600–650 °C), and this procedure can be considered a suitable alternative to reduce the volume of such waste. FTIR spectra recorded for each type of biochar reveal the presence of several functional groups that can be used as binding sites for Co(II) retention. The batch biosorption experiments were performed as a function of initial Co(II) ions concentration and contact time, at constant solution pH (5.0), sorbent dose (8.0 g/L), and room temperature (25 ± 1 °C). The sorption experiments showed that the Co(II) ions retention reaches the equilibrium in maximum 60 min, and the maximum sorption capacity follows the order: Mustard biochar (MBC—24.21 mg/g) < soy biochar (SBC—19.61 mg/g) < algae biochar (ABC—11.90 mg/g). The modeling of experimental data proves that the retention of Co(II) ions from aqueous solution occurs through electrostatic interactions, and that the sorption process takes place until a monolayer coverage is formed on the outer surface of the biochar. This information is very useful in the design of a suitable desorption system. The desorption results showed that by treating the biochar samples loaded with Co(II) ions with 0.1 mol/L HNO3 solution, over 92% of Co(II) ions are desorbed and can be recovered, and the biochar samples can be used in at least three sorption/desorption cycles. All the experimental observations sustain the potential use of biochar obtained from different types of waste biomass as a promising alternative sorbent for the removal of Co(II) ions from aqueous media.
Nitramine Derivatives of NTO - A DFT Study
Authors: Türker Lemi
Published: July 2019

NTO is a nitrotriazole type explosive having good thermal stability and low chemical sensitivity. It is relatively insensitive to impact and shock. In the present study, nitramine derivatives of NTO are considered within the constraints of density functional theory at the level of B3LYP/6-31+G(d). The stabilities, some geometrical, physicochemical, and some molecular orbital characteristics etc., of the structures are considered. The calculated IR and UV-VIS spectra are presented and discussed.