bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MFA-OSELM Algorithm for WiFi-Based Indoor Positioning System
Authors: AL-Khaleefa Ahmed Salih , Ahmad Mohd Riduan , Isa Azmi Awang Md , AL-Saffar Ahmed , Esa Mona Riza Mohd , Malik Reza Firsandaya
Published: April 2019

Indoor localization is a dynamic and exciting research area. WiFi has exhibited a tremendous capability for internal localization since it is extensively used and easily accessible. Facilitating the use of WiFi for this purpose requires fingerprint formation and the implementation of a learning algorithm with the aim of using the fingerprint to determine locations. The most difficult aspect of techniques based on fingerprints is the effect of dynamic environmental changes on fingerprint authentication. With the aim of dealing with this problem, many experts have adopted transfer-learning methods, even though in WiFi indoor localization the dynamic quality of the change in the fingerprint has some cyclic factors that necessitate the use of previous knowledge in various situations. Thus, this paper presents the maximum feature adaptive online sequential extreme learning machine (MFA-OSELM) technique, which uses previous knowledge to handle the cyclic dynamic factors that are brought about by the issue of mobility, which is present in internal environments. This research extends the earlier study of the feature adaptive online sequential extreme learning machine (FA-OSELM). The results of this research demonstrate that MFA-OSELM is superior to FA-OSELM given its capacity to preserve previous data when a person goes back to locations that he/she had visited earlier. Also, there is always a positive accuracy change when using MFA-OSELM, with the best change achieved being 27% (ranging from eight to 27% and six to 18% for the TampereU and UJIIndoorLoc datasets, respectively), which proves the efficiency of MFA-OSELM in restoring previous knowledge.
Endophytic Effects of Beauveria bassiana on Corn (Zea mays) and Its Herbivore, Rachiplusia nu (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Russo María Leticia , Scorsetti Ana Clara , Vianna María Florencia , Cabello Marta , Ferreri Natalia , Pelizza Sebastian
Published: April 2019

Entomopathogenic fungi are widely recognized as agents of biological control worldwide. Their use in agriculture for the regulation of pest populations is a promising alternative to conventional insecticides. Furthermore, recent studies have shown that entomopathogenic fungi fulfill an additional role in plants as growth promoters. The purpose of this investigation was to assess the growth and yield of corn plants colonized with Beauveria bassiana and its effect on the lepidopteran pest Rachiplusia nu. Effects of the fungus on plant growth, crop yield, and vertical transmission were evaluated in the field. Feeding preferences of R. nu larvae were assessed in the laboratory using a “choice test”. Corn plants inoculated with B. bassiana showed an increase in height, number of leaves, grain weight, yield, and percentage of seed germination compared to control plants. Consumption of B. bassiana-colonized corn plants by R. nu larvae was reduced compared to feeding levels observed on non-inoculated plants. This study showed that endophytic B. bassiana can provide multiple benefits to Zea mays and can play an important role in future integrated pest management programs.
Effects of Thermal Variables of Solidification on the Microstructure, Hardness, and Microhardness of Cu-Al-Ni-Fe Alloys
Authors: Nascimento Maurício Silva , Santos Givanildo Alves dos , Teram Rogério , Santos Vinícius Torres dos , Silva Márcio Rodrigues da , Couto Antonio Augusto
Published: April 2019

Aluminum bronze is a complex group of copper-based alloys that may include up to 14% aluminum, but lower amounts of nickel and iron are also added, as they differently affect alloy characteristics such as strength, ductility, and corrosion resistance. The phase transformations of nickel aluminum–bronze alloys have been the subject of many studies due to the formations of intermetallics promoted by slow cooling. In the present investigation, quaternary systems of aluminum bronze alloys, specifically Cu–10wt%Al–5wt%Ni–5wt%Fe (hypoeutectoid bronze) and Cu–14wt%Al–5wt%Ni–5wi%Fe (hypereutectoid bronze), were directionally solidified upward under transient heat flow conditions. The experimental parameters measured included solidification thermal parameters such as the tip growth rate (VL) and cooling rate (TR), optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, hardness, and microhardness. We observed that the hardness and microhardness values vary according to the thermal parameters and solidification. We also observed that the Cu–14wt%Al–5wt%Ni–5wi%Fe alloy presented higher hardness values and a more refined structure than the Cu–10wt%Al–5wt%Ni–5wt%Fe alloy. SEM analysis proved the presence of specific intermetallics for each alloy.
Effects of Ca/Si Ratio, Aluminum and Magnesium on the Carbonation Behavior of Calcium Silicate Hydrate
Authors: Li Jing , Yu Qijun , Huang Haoliang , Yin Suhong
Published: April 2019

The effects of Ca/Si ratio, aluminum and magnesium on the carbonation behavior of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) were investigated by using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). The results showed that the Ca/Si ratio, Al/Si ratio and Mg/Si ratio had a significant influence on the structure, carbonation products and carbonation resistance of C-(M)-(A)-S-H. The mean chain length of silicate chains in C-S-H increased as the Ca/Si ratio decreased. Aluminum uptake in C-S-H increased the content of bridging silicate tetrahedron (Q2). A cross-linked structure (Q3) appeared when magnesium uptake in C-S-H. The carbonation product of C-S-H was vaterite if the Ca/Si ratio was lower than 0.87. The carbonation products of C-S-H were vaterite and calcite if the Ca/Si ratio was higher than 1.02. C-M-S-H had more polymerized units, stronger bond strength and better carbonation resistance than C-S-H.
Mobility and Fate of Cerium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, and Copper Nanoparticles in Agricultural Soil at Sequential Wetting-Drying Cycles
Authors: Ermolin Mikhail , Fedyunina Natalia , Katasonova Olesya
Published: April 2019

Study on the behavior and fate of nanofertilizers in soil plays a key role in the assessment of the efficiency of their use for intended purposes. The behavior of nanoparticles (NPs) in soil depends on environmental scenarios, such as Wetting-Drying cycles (WDCs). In the present work, the mobility and fate of CeO2, ZnO, and Cu NPs in agricultural soil at sequential WDCs have been studied. It has been shown that the mobility of CeO2 and ZnO NPs decreases after each WDC. After four WDCs the relative amount of CeO2 and ZnO NPs leached from soil decreases from 0.11 to 0.07% and from 0.21 to 0.07%, correspondingly. The decrease in the mobility of NPs is caused by their immobilization by water-stable soil aggregates, which are formed at sequential WDCs. Cu NPs are dissolved by soil solution, so their mobility (in ionic forms) increases after each subsequent WDCs. The relative content of Cu2+ sourced from Cu NPs increases up to 0.88% after four WDCs. It has been found that mineral NPs of soil can play an important role in the transport of insoluble engineered NPs. As for soluble NPs, the kinetics of their dissolution governs their mobility in ionic forms.
Investigation of SLM Process in Terms of Temperature Distribution and Melting Pool Size: Modeling and Experimental Approaches
Authors: Ansari Md Jonaet , Nguyen Dinh-Son , Park Hong Seok
Published: April 2019

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technique that has the potential to produce almost any three-dimensional (3D) metallic part, even those with complicated shapes. Throughout the SLM process, the heat transfer characteristics of the metal powder plays a significant role in maintaining the product quality during 3D printing. Thus, it is crucial for 3D-printing manufacturers to determine the thermal behavior over the SLM process. However, it is a significant challenge to accurately determine the large temperature gradient and the melt pool size using only experiments. Therefore, the use of both experimental investigations and numerical analysis can assist in characterizing the temperature evaluation and the melt pool size in a more effective manner. In this study, 3D finite element analysis applying a moving volumetric Gaussian laser heat source was used to analyze the temperature profile on the powder bed and the resultant melt pool size throughout the SLM process. In the experiments, a TELOPS FAST-IR (M350) thermal imager was applied to determine the temperature profile of the melting pool and powder bed along the scanning direction during the SLM fabrication using Ti6Al4V powder. The numerically calculated results were compared with the experimentally determined temperature distribution. The comparison showed that the calculated peak temperature for single- and multi-track by the developed thermal model was in good agreement with the experiment results. Secondly, the developed model was verified by comparing the melting pool size for various laser powers and scanning speeds with the experimentally measured melting pool size from the published literature. The developed model could predict the melt pool width (with 2–5% error) and melt pool depth (with 5–6% error).
Anti-Wear Property of Aluminum–Silicon Alloy Treated by Chemical Etching, Mechanical Honing and Laser Finishing
Authors: Du Fengming , Li Chengdi , Mi Zetian , Shen Yan , Huang Ruoxuan , Han Xiaoguang , Dong Yong , Xu Jiujun
Published: April 2019

To enhance the anti-wear property of aluminum–silicon (Al–Si) alloy, three processing technologies—chemical etching, mechanical honing and laser finishing—were compared in terms of their effects on anti-wear performance. The treated Al–Si alloy cylinder liner samples were worn against a piston ring by a reciprocating sliding tribotester; the anti-wear performance was represented by the friction coefficient and wear loss; and the wear mechanism was determined by establishing stress contact models. The results showed that the best time for both the chemical etching and mechanical honing treatments was 2 min, and the optimal laser power was 1000 W for the laser finishing treatment. The three processing technologies could all remove the aluminum layer and make the silicon protrude on the surface to avoid the plastic flow of aluminum during the friction process. The laser finishing could not only protrude the silicon particle but also make its edge rounded and smooth, which decreased the stress concentration. Therefore, the Al–Si alloy cylinder liner treated with laser finishing had the best anti-wear performance.
Design of an In-Operando Cell for X-Ray and Neutron Imaging of Oxygen-Depolarized Cathodes in Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis
Authors: Gebhard Marcus , Paulisch Melanie , Hilger André , Franzen David , Ellendorff Barbara , Turek Thomas , Manke Ingo , Roth Christina
Published: April 2019

Oxygen-depolarized cathodes are a novel concept to be used in chlor-alkali electrolysis in order to generate significant energy savings. In these porous gas diffusion electrodes, hydrophilic and catalytically active microsized silver grains and a hydrophobic polytetrafluoroethylene cobweb structure are combined to obtain the optimum amount of three-phase boundaries between the highly alkaline electrolyte and the oxygen gas phase to achieve high current densities. However, the direct correlation between specific electrode structure and electrochemical performance is difficult. In this work, we report on the successful design and adaptation of an in-operando cell for X-ray (micro-computed tomography, synchrotron) and neutron imaging of an operating oxygen-depolarized cathode under realistic operation conditions, enabling the investigation of the electrolyte invasion into, and distribution inside, the porous electrode for the first time.
Low-Cost Carbon Fibre Derived from Sustainable Coal Tar Pitch and Polyacrylonitrile: Fabrication and Characterisation
Authors: Zabihi Omid , Shafei Sajjad , Fakhrhoseini Seyed Mousa , Ahmadi Mojtaba , Ajdari Nazarloo Hossein , Stanger Rohan , Anh Tran Quang , Lucas John , Wall Terry , Naebe Minoo
Published: April 2019

Preparation of high-value pitch-based carbon fibres (CFs) from mesophase pitch precursor is of great importance towards low-cost CFs. Herein, we developed a method to reduce the cost of CFs precursor through incorporating high loading of coal tar pitch (CTP) into polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer solution. The CTP with a loading of 25% and 50% was blended with PAN and their spinnability was examined by electrospinning process. The effect of CTP on thermal stabilization and carbonisation of PAN fibres was investigated by thermal analyses methods. Moreover, electrospun PAN/CTP fibres were carbonised at two different temperatures i.e., 850 °C and 1200 °C and their crystallographic structures of resulting such low-cost PAN/CTP CFs were studied through X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman analyses. Compared to pure PAN CFs, the electrical resistivity of PAN/25% CTP CFs significantly decreased by 92%, reaching 1.6 kΩ/sq. The overall results showed that PAN precursor containing 25% CTP resulted in balanced properties in terms of spinnability, thermal and structural properties. It is believed that CTP has a great potential to be used as an additive for PAN precursor and will pave the way for cost-reduced and high-performance CFs.
Enhancing Domain-Specific Supervised Natural Language Intent Classification with a Top-Down Selective Ensemble Model
Authors: Jenset Gard B. , McGillivray Barbara
Published: April 2019

Natural Language Understanding (NLU) systems are essential components in many industry conversational artificial intelligence applications. There are strong incentives to develop a good NLU capability in such systems, both to improve the user experience and in the case of regulated industries for compliance reasons. We report on a series of experiments comparing the effects of optimizing word embeddings versus implementing a multi-classifier ensemble approach and conclude that in our case, only the latter approach leads to significant improvements. The study provides a high-level primer for developing NLU systems in regulated domains, as well as providing a specific baseline accuracy for evaluating NLU systems for financial guidance.
Influence of Material Property Variation on Computationally Calculated Melt Pool Temperature during Laser Melting Process
Authors: Ahmed Sazzad H. , Mian Ahsan
Published: April 2019

Selective Laser Melting (SLM) is a popular additive manufacturing (AM) method where a laser beam selectively melts powder layer by layer based on the building geometry. The melt pool peak temperature during build process is an important parameter to determine build quality of a fabricated component by SLM process. The melt pool temperature depends on process parameters including laser power, scanning speed, and hatch space as well as the properties of the build material. In this paper, the sensitivity of melt pool peak temperature during the build process to temperature dependent material properties including density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity are investigated for a range of laser powers and laser scanning speeds. It is observed that the melt pool temperature is most sensitive to melt pool thermal conductivity of the processed material for a set of specific process parameters (e.g., laser power and scan speed). Variations in the other mechanical–physical properties of powder and melt pool such as density and specific heat are found to have minimal effect on melt pool temperature.
Two-Dimensional Manipulation in Mid-Air Using a Single Transducer Acoustic Levitator
Authors: Wijaya Harri , Latifi Kourosh , Zhou Quan
Published: April 2019

We report a single transducer acoustic levitator capable of manipulating objects in two-dimensions. The levitator consists of a centrally actuated vibrating plate and a flat reflector. We show that the levitation position of the object depends not only on the vibration frequency, but also on the tilting angle between the plate and the reflector. Additionally, new levitation positions can be created by actuating the plate with a composite signal of two frequencies using frequency switching. Based on recorded levitation positions, such single transducer acoustic levitator can manipulate a cluster of levitated microspheres in predefined trajectories, with mean position error of 155 ± 84 µm.
Multi-Analysis Characterisation of a Vernacular House in Doha (Qatar): Petrography and Petrophysics of its Construction Materials
Authors: Freire-Lista David Martín , Kahraman Gizem , Carter Robert
Published: April 2019

This study characterises the original construction materials (building stones and mortars) of a collapsed two-storey colonnaded structure in the Ismail Mandani house, located in the old city centre of Doha (Qatar). Results were drawn based on interpretation and integration of historical, in situ observations and analytical data. The mortars and stones were characterised following a multidisciplinary approach, combining macroscopic observation with petrographic microscopy, mineralogical analysis (X-ray diffraction) and elemental analysis (handheld X-ray fluorescence) of samples. Moreover, hydric properties, ultrasonic pulse velocity and colour of representative samples of the house were studied. The results revealed the use of two types of stones and three different types of gypsum mortars. The original construction materials came from nearby coastal stones. Gypsum of the most used mortar had a calcination temperature between 120 and 160 °C and its colour was produced by lumps with higher Fe content. The materials’ effective porosity and water absorption were high, and their ultrasonic pulse velocity was low. These petrophysical results indicated they had low quality for construction purposes. The composition and colour of the original construction materials were quantified, which will allow the reproduction of their aesthetic characteristics and improvement of their quality in future reconstruction works.
Baijiu Vinasse Extract Scavenges Glyoxal and Inhibits the Formation of Nε-Carboxymethyllysine in Dairy Food
Authors: Wang Yuzhen , Liu Huilin , Zhang Dianwei , Liu Jingmin , Wang Jing , Wang Shuo , Sun Baoguo
Published: April 2019

The inhibitory effects of baijiu vinasse extract and its phenolic acid compounds on the Nε-carboxymethyllysine (CML) formation from dairy food were investigated. The inhibitory effect of the baijiu vinasse extract against CML formation was 43.2% in the casein and D-glucose model, which used 6 mL of the 70% acetone extract at 60 °C for 40 min. The HPLC-MS/MS profiles of the vinasse extract indicated that vanillic, chlorogenic, p-coumaric, sinapic, caffeic, ferulic, and syringic acids were seven major phenolic acid compounds. Furthermore, the inhibitory mechanism of the phenolic acid compounds in the model of dairy food was discussed by the trapping and scavenging of glyoxal. The results of this study exhibit that seven major antioxidant phenolic acid compounds may play important roles in the antioxidant activity and CML inhibition of the vinasse extract in a model of dairy foods.
Preparation of Zirconium-89 Solutions for Radiopharmaceutical Purposes: Interrelation Between Formulation, Radiochemical Purity, Stability and Biodistribution
Authors: Larenkov Anton , Bubenschikov Victor , Makichyan Artur , Zhukova Maria , Krasnoperova Alina , Kodina Galina
Published: April 2019

Zirconium-89 is a promising radionuclide for nuclear medicine. The aim of the present work was to find a suitable method for obtaining zirconium-89 solutions for radiopharmaceutical purposes. For this purpose, the ion exchange behavior of zirconium-89 solutions was studied. Radio-TLC (thin layer chromatography) and biodistribution studies were carried out to understand speciation of zirconium-89 complexes and their role in the development of new radiopharmaceuticals. Three methods of zirconium-89 isolation were studied using ZR (hydroxamate) and Chelex-100 resins. It was found that ZR-resin alone is not enough to obtain stable zirconium-89 formulations. An easy and effective method of reconstitution of [89Zr]Zr-oxalate to [89Zr]Zr-citrate using Chelex-100 resin was developed. Developed procedures allow obtaining [89Zr]Zr-oxalate (in 0.1 M sodium oxalate solution) and [89Zr]Zr-citrate (in 0.1–1.0 M sodium citrate solution). These solutions are perfectly suitable and convenient for radiopharmaceutical purposes. Our results prove [89Zr]Zr-citrate to be advantageous over [89Zr]Zr-oxalate. During evaluation of speciation of zirconium-89 complexes, a new TLC method was developed, since it was proved that there is no comprehensive method for analysis or zirconium-89 preparations. The new method provides valuable insights about the content of “active” ionic form of zirconium-89. The interrelation of the chromatographic behavior of zirconium-89 preparations and their biodistribution was studied.
Shedding New Light on The Role of ανβ3 and α5β1 Integrins in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Morshed Arwa , Abbas Abdul Baset , Hu Jialiang , Xu Hanmei
Published: April 2019

ανβ3 and α5β1 are essential glycoproteins involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Understanding of the role these integrins play in disease have been analyzed via description of cells-expressing ανβ3 and α5β1 and their mediators to trigger inflammation. ανβ3 and α5β1 facilitate cells-ECM and cell-cell communication, producing pro-inflammatory factors. Pro-inflammatory factors are essential for the building of undesirable new blood vessels termed angiogenesis which can further lead to destruction of bones and joints. Despite many attempts to target these glycoproteins, there are still some problems, therefore, there is still interest in understanding the synergistic role these integrins play in the pathogenesis of RA. The purpose of this review is to gain insights into the biological effects of ανβ3 and α5β1 in synovial tissues that are relevant to pathogenesis and therapy of RA.
Novel Carbon/PEDOT/PSS-Based Screen-Printed Biosensors for Acetylcholine Neurotransmitter and Acetylcholinesterase Detection in Human Serum
Authors: Ashmawy Nashwa H. , Almehizia Abdulrahman A. , Youssef Teraze A. , Amr Abd El-Galil E. , Al-Omar Mohamed A. , Kamel Ayman H.
Published: April 2019

New reliable and robust potentiometric ion-selective electrodes were fabricated using poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) as the solid contact between the sensing membrane and electrical substrate for an acetylcholine (ACh) bioassay. A film of PEDOT/PSS was deposited on a solid carbon screen-printed platform made from ceramic substrate. The selective materials used in the ion-selective electrode (ISE) sensor membrane were acetylcholinium tetraphenylborate (ACh/TPB/PEDOT/PSS-ISE) (sensor I) and triacetyl-β-cyclodextrin (β-CD/PEDOT/PSS-ISE) (sensor II). The sensors revealed clear enhanced Nernstian response with a cationic slope 56.4 ± 0.6 and 55.3 ± 1.1 mV/decade toward (ACh+) ions over the dynamic linear range 1.0 × 10−6–1 × 10−3 and 2.0 × 10−6–1.0 × 10−3 M at pH 5 with limits of detection 2.0 × 10−7 and 3.2 × 10−7 M for sensors I and II, respectively. The selectivity behavior of both sensors was also tested and the sensors showed a significant high selectivity toward ACh+ over different common organic and inorganic cations. The stability of the potential response for the solid-contact (SC)/ISEs was evaluated using a chronopotentiometric method and compared with that of electrodes prepared without adding the solid-contact material (PEDOT/PSS). Enhanced accuracy, excellent repeatability, good reproducibility, potential stability, and high selectivity and sensitivity were introduced by these cost-effective sensors. The sensors were also used to measure the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). A linear plot between the initial rate of the hydrolysis of ACh+ substrate and enzyme activity held 5.0 × 10−3–5.2 IU L−1 of AChE enzyme. Application to acetylcholine determination in human serum was done and the results were compared with the standard colorimetric method.
Recent Advances in the Discovery and Biosynthetic Study of Eukaryotic RiPP Natural Products
Authors: Luo Shangwen , Dong Shi-Hui
Published: April 2019

Natural products have played indispensable roles in drug development and biomedical research. Ribosomally synthesized and post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs) are a group of fast-expanding natural products attribute to genome mining efforts in recent years. Most RiPP natural products were discovered from bacteria, yet many eukaryotic cyclic peptides turned out to be of RiPP origin. This review article presents recent advances in the discovery of eukaryotic RiPP natural products, the elucidation of their biosynthetic pathways, and the molecular basis for their biosynthetic enzyme catalysis.
Unidirectional Enhanced Dipolar Emission with an Individual Dielectric Nanoantenna
Authors: Zhang Tianyue , Xu Jian , Deng Zi-Lan , Hu Dejiao , Qin Fei , Li Xiangping
Published: April 2019

Light manipulation at the nanoscale is the vanguard of plasmonics. Controlling light radiation into a desired direction in parallel with high optical signal enhancement is still a challenge for designing ultracompact nanoantennas far below subwavelength dimensions. Here, we theoretically demonstrate the unidirectional emissions from a local nanoemitter coupled to a hybrid nanoantenna consisting of a plasmonic dipole antenna and an individual silicon nanorod. The emitter near-field was coupled to the dipolar antenna plasmon resonance to achieve a strong radiative decay rate modification, and the emitting plasmon pumped the multipoles within the silicon nanorod for efficient emission redirection. The hybrid antenna sustained a high forward directivity (i.e., a front-to-back ratio of 30 dB) with broadband operating wavelengths in the visible range (i.e., a spectral bandwidth of 240 nm). This facilitated a large library of plasmonic nanostructures to be incorporated, from single element dipole antennas to gap antennas. The proposed hybrid optical nanorouter with ultracompact structural dimensions of 0.08 λ2 was capable of spectrally sorting the emission from the local point source into distinct far-field directions, as well as possessing large emission gains introduced by the nanogap. The distinct features of antenna designs hold potential in the areas of novel nanoscale light sources, biosensing, and optical routing.
Interaction in Li@Fullerenes and Li+@Fullerenes: First Principle Insights to Li-Based Endohedral Fullerenes
Authors: Bai Hongcun , Gao Hongfeng , Feng Wei , Zhao Yaping , Wu Yuhua
Published: April 2019

This work reveals first principle results of the endohedral fullerenes made from neutral or charged single atomic lithium (Li or Li+) encapsulated in fullerenes with various cage sizes. According to the calculated binding energies, it is found that the encapsulation of a single lithium atom is energetically more favorable than that of lithium cation. Lithium, in both atomic and cationic forms, exhibits a clear tendency to depart from the center in large cages. Interaction effects dominate the whole encapsulation process of lithium to carbon cages. Further, the nature of the interaction between Li (or Li+) and carbon cages is discussed based on reduced density gradient, energy decomposition analysis, and charge transfer.
Oxidative Stress and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
Authors: Yang Jinchunzi , Fernández-Galilea Marta , Martínez-Fernández Leyre , González-Muniesa Pedro , Pérez-Chávez Adriana , Martínez J. Alfredo , Moreno-Aliaga Maria J.
Published: April 2019

Aging is a complex phenomenon characterized by the progressive loss of tissue and organ function. The oxidative-stress theory of aging postulates that age-associated functional losses are due to the accumulation of ROS-induced damage. Liver function impairment and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are common among the elderly. NAFLD can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and evolve to hepatic cirrhosis or hepatic carcinoma. Oxidative stress, lipotoxicity, and inflammation play a key role in the progression of NAFLD. A growing body of evidence supports the therapeutic potential of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), mainly docosahaexenoic (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), on metabolic diseases based on their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here, we performed a systematic review of clinical trials analyzing the efficacy of n-3 PUFA on both systemic oxidative stress and on NAFLD/NASH features in adults. As a matter of fact, it remains controversial whether n-3 PUFA are effective to counteract oxidative stress. On the other hand, data suggest that n-3 PUFA supplementation may be effective in the early stages of NAFLD, but not in patients with more severe NAFLD or NASH. Future perspectives and relevant aspects that should be considered when planning new randomized controlled trials are also discussed.
Food Marketing Influences Children’s Attitudes, Preferences and Consumption: A Systematic Critical Review
Authors: Smith Rachel , Kelly Bridget , Yeatman Heather , Boyland Emma
Published: April 2019

Exposure to the marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages is a widely acknowledged risk factor for the development of childhood obesity and noncommunicable diseases. Food marketing involves the use of numerous persuasive techniques to influence children’s food attitudes, preferences and consumption. This systematic review provides a comprehensive contemporary account of the impact of these marketing techniques on children aged 0–18 years and critically evaluates the methodologies used. Five electronic academic databases were searched using key terms for primary studies (both quantitative and qualitative) published up to September 2018; 71 eligible articles were identified. Significant detrimental effects of food marketing, including enhanced attitudes, preferences and increased consumption of marketed foods were documented for a wide range of marketing techniques, particularly those used in television/movies and product packaging. Together, these studies contribute strong evidence to support the restriction of food marketing to children. However, the review also signposted distinct gaps: Firstly, there is a lack of use of qualitative and physiological methodologies. Secondly, contemporary and sophisticated marketing techniques used in new media warrant increased research attention. Finally, more research is needed to evaluate the longer-term effects of food marketing on children’s weight.
An End-to-End Image-Based Automatic Food Energy Estimation Technique Based on Learned Energy Distribution Images: Protocol and Methodology
Authors: Fang Shaobo , Shao Zeman , Kerr Deborah A. , Boushey Carol J. , Zhu Fengqing
Published: April 2019

Obtaining accurate food portion estimation automatically is challenging since the processes of food preparation and consumption impose large variations on food shapes and appearances. The aim of this paper was to estimate the food energy numeric value from eating occasion images captured using the mobile food record. To model the characteristics of food energy distribution in an eating scene, a new concept of “food energy distribution” was introduced. The mapping of a food image to its energy distribution was learned using Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) architecture. Food energy was estimated from the image based on the energy distribution image predicted by GAN. The proposed method was validated on a set of food images collected from a 7-day dietary study among 45 community-dwelling men and women between 21–65 years. The ground truth food energy was obtained from pre-weighed foods provided to the participants. The predicted food energy values using our end-to-end energy estimation system was compared to the ground truth food energy values. The average error in the estimated energy was 209 kcal per eating occasion. These results show promise for improving accuracy of image-based dietary assessment.
Hierarchical Virtual Screening of Potential Insectides Inhibitors of Acetylcholinesterase and Juvenile Hormone from Temephos
Authors: V. da Costa Glauber , Ferreira Elenilze F. B. , da S. Ramos Ryan , B. da Silva Luciane , M. F. de Sá Ester , K. P. da Silva Alicia , M. Lobato Cássio , N. P. Souto Raimundo , T. de P. da Silva Carlos Henrique , B. Federico Leonardo , M. C. Rosa Joaquín , B. R. dos Santos Cleydson
Published: April 2019

Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus, 1762; Diptera: Culicidae) is the main vector transmitting viral diseases such as dengue fever, dengue haemorrhagic fever, urban yellow fever, zika and chikungunya. Worldwide, especially in the Americas and Brazil, many cases of dengue have been reported in recent years, which have shown significant growth. The main control strategy is the elimination of the vector, carried out through various education programs, to change human habits, but the most usual is biological control, together with environmental management and chemical control. The most commonly insecticide used is temephos (an organophosphorus compound), but Aedes aegypti populations have shown resistance and the product is highly toxic, so we chose it as a template molecule to perform a ligand-based virtual screening in the ChemBrigde (DIVERSet-CL subcollection) database, searching for derivatives with similarity in shape (ROCS) and electrostatic potential (EON). Thus, fourty-five molecules were filtered based on their pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties and 11 molecules were selected by a molecular docking study, including binding affinity and mode of interaction. The L46, L66 and L68 molecules show potential inhibitory activity for both the insect (−9.28, −10.08 and −6.78 Kcal/mol, respectively) and human (−6.05, 6.25 and 7.2 Kcal/mol respectively) enzymes, as well as the juvenile hormone protein (−9.2; −10.96 and −8.16 kcal/mol, respectively), showing a significant difference in comparison to the template molecule temephos. Molecules L46, L66 and L68 interacted with important amino acids at each catalytic site of the enzyme reported in the literature. Thus, the molecules here investigated are potential inhibitors for both the acetylcholinesterase enzymes and juvenile hormone protein–from insect and humans, characterizing them as a potential insecticide against the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Co-Delivery of M2e Virus-Like Particles with Influenza Split Vaccine to the Skin Using Microneedles Enhances the Efficacy of Cross Protection
Authors: Kim Min-Chul , Kim Ki-Hye , Lee Jeong Woo , Lee Yu-Na , Choi Hyo-Jick , Jung Yu-Jin , Kim Yu-Jin , Compans Richard W. , Prausnitz Mark R. , Kang Sang-Moo
Published: April 2019

It is a high priority to develop a simple and effective delivery method for a cross-protective influenza vaccine. We investigated skin immunization by microneedle (MN) patch with human influenza split vaccine and virus-like particles containing heterologous M2 extracellular (M2e) domains (M2e5x virus-like particles (VLP)) as a cross-protective influenza vaccine candidate. Co-delivery of influenza split vaccine and M2e5x VLP to the skin by MN patch was found to confer effective protection against heterosubtypic influenza virus by preventing weight loss and reducing lung viral loads. Compared to intramuscular immunization, MN-based delivery of combined split vaccine and M2e5x VLPs shaped cellular immune responses toward T helper type 1 responses increasing IgG2a isotype antibodies as well as IFN-γ producing cells in mucosal and systemic sites. This study provides evidence that potential immunological and logistic benefits of M2e5x VLP with human influenza split vaccine delivered by MN patch can be used to develop an easy-to-administer cross-protective influenza vaccine.
First-Order Estimates of Coastal Bathymetry in Ilulissat and Naajarsuit Fjords, Greenland, from Remotely Sensed Iceberg Observations
Authors: Scheick Jessica , Enderlin Ellyn , Miller Emily , Hamilton Gordon
Published: April 2019

Warm water masses circulating at depth off the coast of Greenland play an important role in controlling rates of mass loss from the Greenland Ice Sheet through feedbacks associated with the melting of marine glacier termini. The ability of these warm waters to reach glacier termini is strongly controlled by fjord bathymetry, which was unmapped for the majority of Greenland’s fjords until recently. In response to the need for bathymetric measurements in previously uncharted areas, we developed two companion methods to infer fjord bathymetry using icebergs as depth sounders. The main premise of our methods centers around the idea that deep-drafted icebergs will become stranded in shallow water such that estimates of iceberg surface elevation can be used to infer draft, and thus water depth, under the assumption of hydrostatic equilibrium. When and where available, surface elevations of icebergs stranded on bathymetric highs were extracted from digital elevation models (DEMs) and converted to estimates of iceberg draft. To expand the spatial coverage of our inferred water depths beyond the DEM footprints, we used the DEMs to construct characteristic depth–width ratios and then inferred depths from satellite imagery-derived iceberg widths. We tested and applied the methods in two fjord systems in western Greenland with partially constrained bathymetry, Ilulissat Isfjord and Naajarsuit Fjord, to demonstrate their utility for inferring bathymetry using remote sensing datasets. Our results show that while the uncertainties associated with the methods are high (up to ±93 m), they provide critical first-order constraints on fjord bathymetry.
Impact of Cyclonic Ocean Eddies on Upper Ocean Thermodynamic Response to Typhoon Soudelor
Authors: Ning Jue , Xu Qing , Zhang Han , Wang Tao , Fan Kaiguo
Published: April 2019

By using multiplatform satellite datasets, Argo observations and numerical model data, the upper ocean thermodynamic responses to Super Typhoon Soudelor are investigated with a focus on the impact of an ocean cyclonic eddy (CE). In addition to the significant surface cooling inside the CE region, an abnormally large rising in subsurface temperature is observed. The maximum warming and heat content change (HCC) reach up to 4.37 °C and 1.73 GJ/m2, respectively. Moreover, the HCC is an order of magnitude larger than that calculated from statistical analysis of Argo profile data in the previous study which only considered the effects caused by typhoons. Meanwhile, the subsurface warming outside the CE is merely 1.74 °C with HCC of 0.39 GJ/m2. Previous studies suggested that typhoon-induced vertical mixing is the primary factor causing subsurface warming but these studies ignored an important mechanism related to the horizontal advection caused by the rotation and movement of mesoscale eddies. This study documents that the eddy-induced horizontal advection has a great impact on the upper ocean responses to typhoons. Therefore, the influence of eddies should be considered when studying the responses of upper ocean to typhoons with pre-existing mesoscale eddies.
Masi Entropy for Satellite Color Image Segmentation Using Tournament-Based Lévy Multiverse Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Jia Heming , Peng Xiaoxu , Song Wenlong , Oliva Diego , Lang Chunbo , Li Yao
Published: April 2019

A novel multilevel threshold segmentation method for color satellite images based on Masi entropy is proposed in this paper. Lévy multiverse optimization algorithm (LMVO) has a strong advantage over the traditional multiverse optimization algorithm (MVO) in finding the optimal solution for the segmentation in the three channels of an RGB image. As the work advancement introduces a Lévy multiverse optimization algorithm which uses tournament selection instead of roulette wheel selection, and updates some formulas in the algorithm with mutation factor. Then, the proposal is called TLMVO, and another advantage is that the population diversity of the algorithm in the latest iterations is maintained. The Masi entropy is used as an application and combined with the improved TLMVO algorithm for satellite color image segmentation. Masi entropy combines the additivity of Renyi entropy and the non-extensibility of Tsallis entropy. By increasing the number of thesholds, the quality of segmenttion becomes better, then the dimensionality of the problem also increases. Fitness function value, average CPU running time, Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio (PSNR), Structural Similarity Index (SSIM) and Feature Similarity Index (FSIM) were used to evaluate the segmentation results. Further statistical evaluation was given by Wilcoxon’s rank sum test and Friedman test. The experimental results show that the TLMVO algorithm has wide adaptability to high-dimensional optimization problems, and has obvious advantages in objective function value, image quality detection, convergence performance and robustness.
Real-Time Classification of Multivariate Olfaction Data Using Spiking Neural Networks
Authors: Vanarse Anup , Osseiran Adam , Rassau Alexander
Published: April 2019

Recent studies in bioinspired artificial olfaction, especially those detailing the application of spike-based neuromorphic methods, have led to promising developments towards overcoming the limitations of traditional approaches, such as complexity in handling multivariate data, computational and power requirements, poor accuracy, and substantial delay for processing and classification of odors. Rank-order-based olfactory systems provide an interesting approach for detection of target gases by encoding multi-variate data generated by artificial olfactory systems into temporal signatures. However, the utilization of traditional pattern-matching methods and unpredictable shuffling of spikes in the rank-order impedes the performance of the system. In this paper, we present an SNN-based solution for the classification of rank-order spiking patterns to provide continuous recognition results in real-time. The SNN classifier is deployed on a neuromorphic hardware system that enables massively parallel and low-power processing on incoming rank-order patterns. Offline learning is used to store the reference rank-order patterns, and an inbuilt nearest neighbor classification logic is applied by the neurons to provide recognition results. The proposed system was evaluated using two different datasets including rank-order spiking data from previously established olfactory systems. The continuous classification that was achieved required a maximum of 12.82% of the total pattern frame to provide 96.5% accuracy in identifying corresponding target gases. Recognition results were obtained at a nominal processing latency of 16ms for each incoming spike. In addition to the clear advantages in terms of real-time operation and robustness to inconsistent rank-orders, the SNN classifier can also detect anomalies in rank-order patterns arising due to drift in sensing arrays.
Concrete Crack Detection and Monitoring Using a Capacitive Dense Sensor Array
Authors: Yan Jin , Downey Austin , Cancelli Alessandro , Laflamme Simon , Chen An , Li Jian , Ubertini Filippo
Published: April 2019

Cracks in concrete structures can be indicators of important damage and may significantly affect durability. Their timely identification can be used to ensure structural safety and guide on-time maintenance operations. Structural health monitoring solutions, such as strain gauges and fiber optics systems, have been proposed for the automatic monitoring of such cracks. However, these solutions become economically difficult to deploy when the surface under investigation is very large. This paper proposes to leverage a novel sensing skin for monitoring cracks in concrete structures. This sensing skin is constituted of a flexible electronic termed soft elastomeric capacitor, which detects a change in strain through changes in measured capacitance. The SEC is a low-cost, durable, and robust sensing technology that has previously been studied for the monitoring of fatigue cracks in steel components. In this study, the sensing skin is introduced and preliminary validation results on a small-scale reinforced concrete beam are presented. The technology is verified on a full-scale post-tensioned concrete beam. Results show that the sensing skin is capable of detecting, localizing, and quantifying cracks that formed in both the reinforced and post-tensioned concrete specimens.
A Biosensor Platform for Metal Detection Based on Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein
Authors: Lee Woonwoo , Kim Hyojin , Kang Yerin , Lee Youngshim , Yoon Youngdae
Published: April 2019

Microbial cell-based biosensors, which mostly rely on stress-responsive operons, have been widely developed to monitor environmental pollutants. Biosensors are usually more convenient and inexpensive than traditional instrumental analyses of environmental pollutants. However, the targets of biosensors are restricted by the limited number of genetic operon systems available. In this study, we demonstrated a novel strategy to overcome this limitation by engineering an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP). It has been reported that combining two fragments of split-eGFP can form a native structure. Thus, we engineered new biosensors by inserting metal-binding loops (MBLs) between β-strands 9 and 10 of the eGFP, which then undergoes conformational changes upon interaction between the MBLs and targets, thereby emitting fluorescence. The two designed MLBs based on our previous study were employed as linkers between two fragments of eGFP. As a result, an Escherichia coli biosensor exhibited a fluorescent signal only when interacting with cadmium ions, revealing the prospect of a new biosensor for cadmium detection. Although this study is a starting stage for further developing biosensors, we believe that the proposed strategy can serve as basis to develop new biosensors to target various environmental pollutants.
Characterization and Design Improvement of a Thickness-Shear Lead Zirconate Titanate Transducer for Low Frequency Ultrasonic Guided Wave Applications
Authors: Zennaro Marco , O’Boy Dan J. , Lowe Premesh Shehan , Gan Tat-Hean
Published: April 2019

Thickness-shear transducers for guided wave testing have been used in industry for over two decades and much research has been conducted to improve the resolution and sensitivity. Due to a geometric feature of the current state-of-the art transducer, there is an out-of-plane component in the propagation direction of the fundamental shear horizontal mode which complicates the signal interpretation. In such case, complex signal processing techniques need to be used for mode discrimination to assess the structural health with higher precision. Therefore, it is important to revise the transducer design to eliminate the out-of-plane components in the propagation direction of fundamental shear horizontal mode. This will enhance the mode purity of fundamental shear horizontal mode for its application in guided wave inspection. A numerical investigation has been conducted on a 3 mm thick 2 m circular steel plate to understand the behaviour and the characteristics of the state-of-the-art thickness-shear transducer. Based on the results, it is noted that the redesigning the electrode arrangement will suppress the out-of-plane components on the propagation direction of the fundamental shear horizontal mode. With the aid of this information current state-of-the-art transducers were redesigned and tested in laboratory conditions using the 3D Laser Doppler Vibrometer. This information will aid future transducer designers improve the resolution of thickness-shear transducers for guided wave applications and reduce the weight and cost of transducer array by eliminating the need of additional transducers to suppress spurious modes.