bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machinability Investigations of Inconel-800 Super Alloy under Sustainable Cooling Conditions
Authors: Gupta Munish Kumar , Pruncu Catalin Iulian , Mia Mozammel , Singh Gurraj , Singh Sunpreet , Prakash Chander , Sood P. K. , Gill Harjot Singh
Published: October 2018

With regard to the manufacturing of innovative hard-machining super alloys (i.e., Inconel-800), a potential alternative for improving the process is using a novel cutting fluid approach. Generally, the cutting fluids allow the maintenance of a better tool topography that can generate a superior surface quality of machined material. However, the chemical components of fluids involved in that process may produce harmful effects on human health and can trigger environmental concerns. By decreasing the cutting fluids amount while using sustainable methods (i.e., dry), Near Dry Machining (NDM) will be possible in order to resolve these problems. This paper discusses the features of two innovative techniques for machining an Inconel-800 superalloy by plain turning while considering some critical parameters such as the cutting force, surface characteristics (Ra), the tool wear rate, and chip morphology. The research findings highlight the near-dry machining process robustness over the dry machining routine while its great potential to resolve the heat transfer concerns in this manufacturing method was demonstrated. The results confirm other benefits of these methods (i.e., NDM) linked to the sustainability aspects in terms of the clean process, friendly environment, and permits as well as in terms of improving the manufacturing characteristics.
Strain Conditions for the Inverse Heusler Type Fully Compensated Spin-Gapless Semiconductor Ti2MnAl: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Yang Tie , Hao Liyu , Khenata Rabah , Wang Xiaotian
Published: October 2018

In this work, we systematically studied the structural, electronic, magnetic, mechanical and thermodynamic properties of the fully compensated spin-gapless inverse Heusler Ti2MnAl compound under pressure strain condition by applying the first-principles calculation based on density functional theory and the quasi-harmonic Debye model. The obtained structural, electronic and magnetic behaviors without pressure are well consistent with previous studies. It is found that the spin-gapless characteristic is destroyed at 20 GPa and then restored with further increase in pressure. While, the fully compensated ferromagnetism shows a better resistance against the pressure up to 30 GPa and then becomes to non-magnetism at higher pressure. Tetragonal distortion has also been investigated and it is found the spin-gapless property is only destroyed when c/a is less than 1 at 95% volume. Three independent elastic constants and various moduli have been calculated and they all show increasing tendency with pressure increase. Additionally, the pressure effects on the thermodynamic properties under different temperature have been studied, including the normalized volume, thermal expansion coefficient, heat capacity at constant volume, Grüneisen constant and Debye temperature. Overall, this theoretical study presents a detailed analysis of the physical properties’ variation under strain condition from different aspects on Ti2MnAl and, thus, can provide a helpful reference for the future work and even inspire some new studies and lead to some insight on the application of this material.
Low Temperature Hot Corrosion Screening of Single Crystal Superalloys
Authors: Smialek James , Gray Simon
Published: October 2018

Single crystal superalloys were screened in Type II molten (Na,K)-sulfate hot corrosion re-coat tests in air +300 ppm SO2 at 700 °C. They exhibited large 20–40 mg/cm2 weight changes, repeated spallation, and non-protective, 25–50 μm thick corrosion layers after 300 h of testing. Scale cross sections revealed dual outer Ni(Co)O and inner Al(Cr)S-rich corrosion layers. This chemical differentiation was partially consistent with previous models of oxide fluxing, alloy sulfidation, NiO micro-channel diffusion, and synergistic dissolution mechanisms. Broad shallow pits or uniform attack morphologies were consistent with prior studies performed in high >100 ppm pSO2 environments. Higher Mo experimental alloys trended toward more degradation, producing 100 μm thick scales with distinct Al(Cr)S-rich inner layers or 500 μm thick NiO. The aggressive behavior in these environments supports the need for LTHC-resistant coatings for single crystal superalloys.
Investigation of the Electrical Characteristics of Bilayer ZnO/In2O3 Thin-Film Transistors Fabricated by Solution Processing
Authors: Lee Hyeonju , Zhang Xue , Kim Jung Won , Kim Eui-Jik , Park Jaehoon
Published: October 2018

Metal-oxide thin-film transistors (TFTs) have been developed as promising candidates for use in various electronic and optoelectronic applications. In this study, we fabricated bilayer zinc oxide (ZnO)/indium oxide (In2O3) TFTs by using the sol-gel solution process, and investigated the structural and chemical properties of the bilayer ZnO/In2O3 semiconductor and the electrical properties of these transistors. The thermogravimetric analysis results showed that ZnO and In2O3 films can be produced by the thermal annealing process at 350 °C. The grazing incidence X-ray diffraction patterns and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy results revealed that the intensity and position of characteristic peaks related to In2O3 in the bilayer structure were not affected by the underlying ZnO film. On the other hand, the electrical properties, such as drain current, threshold voltage, and field-effect mobility of the bilayer ZnO/In2O3 TFTs obviously improved, compared with those of the single-layer In2O3 TFTs. Considering the energy bands of ZnO and In2O3, the enhancement in the TFT performance is explained through the electron transport between ZnO and In2O3 and the formation of an internal electric field in the bilayer structure. In the negative gate-bias stress experiments, it was found that the internal electric field contributes to the electrical stability of the bilayer ZnO/In2O3 TFT by reducing the negative gate-bias-induced field and suppressing the trapping of holes in the TFT channel. Consequently, we suggest that the bilayer structure of solution-processed metal-oxide semiconductors is a viable means of enhancing the TFT performance.
Nonlocal q-Symmetric Integral Boundary Value Problem for Sequential q-Symmetric Integrodifference Equations
Authors: Ouncharoen Rujira , Patanarapeelert Nichaphat , Sitthiwirattham Thanin
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we prove the sufficient conditions for the existence results of a solution of a nonlocal q-symmetric integral boundary value problem for a sequential q-symmetric integrodifference equation by using the Banach’s contraction mapping principle and Krasnoselskii’s fixed point theorem. Some examples are also presented to illustrate our results.
Benderamide A, a Cyclic Depsipeptide from a Singapore Collection of Marine Cyanobacterium cf. Lyngbya sp.
Authors: Ding Chi Ying Gary , Ong Ji Fa Marshall , Goh Hui Chin , Coffill Cynthia R. , Tan Lik Tong
Published: October 2018

Benderamide A (1), a (S)-2,2-dimethyl-3-hydroxy-7-octynoic acid (S-Dhoya)-containing cyclic depsipeptide that belongs to the kulolide superfamily, was isolated from a Singapore collection of cf. Lyngbya sp. marine cyanobacterium using a bioassay-guided approach. While the planar structure of 1 was elucidated using a combination of 1D and 2D NMR experiments and MS analysis, the absolute configuration was subsequently achieved using the results obtained from Marfey’s analysis, comparative analysis of nuclear overhauser effect spectroscopy (NOESY) with the known compound 3, and one dimensional-nuclear overhauser effect (1D-NOE). Although 1 did not display antiproliferative activity against MCF7 breast cancer cells, the presence of an Ala instead of Gly suggests a possible mechanistic pathway to explain the consequential decrease in cytotoxicity compared to the closely related 2. In addition, results obtained from an LC–MS/MS-based molecular networking algorithm revealed two other closely related compounds encouraging further identification and isolation from the same marine cyanobacterium extract.
Pharmacological Approach to Sleep Disturbances in Autism Spectrum Disorders with Psychiatric Comorbidities: A Literature Review
Authors: Relia Sachin , Ekambaram Vijayabharathi
Published: October 2018

Autism is a developmental disability that can cause significant emotional, social and behavioral dysfunction. Sleep disorders co-occur in approximately half of the patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Sleep problems in individuals with ASD have also been associated with poor social interaction, increased stereotypy, problems in communication, and overall autistic behavior. Behavioral interventions are considered a primary modality of treatment. There is limited evidence for psychopharmacological treatments in autism; however, these are frequently prescribed. Melatonin, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and α agonists have generally been used with melatonin, having a relatively large body of evidence. Further research and information are needed to guide and individualize treatment for this population group.
Effects of Polymer Matrices and Carbon Nanotubes on the Generation of Electric Energy in a Microbial Fuel Cell
Authors: Plekhanova Yulia , Tarasov Sergei , Kolesov Vladimir , Kuznetsova Iren , Signore Maria , Quaranta Fabio , Reshetilov Anatoly
Published: October 2018

The anode of a microbial fuel cell (MFC) was formed on a graphite electrode and immobilized Gluconobacter oxydans VKM-1280 bacterial cells. Immobilization was performed in chitosan, poly(vinyl alcohol) or N-vinylpyrrolidone-modified poly(vinyl alcohol). Ethanol was used as substrate. The anode was modified using multiwalled carbon nanotubes. The aim of the modification was to create a conductive network between cell lipid membranes, containing exposed pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ)-dependent alcoholdehydrogenases, and the electrode to facilitate electron transfer in the system. The bioelectrochemical characteristics of modified anodes at various cell/polymer ratios were assessed via current density, power density, polarization curves and impedance spectres. Microbial fuel cells based on chitosan at a matrix/cell volume ratio of 5:1 produced maximal power characteristics of the system (8.3 μW/cm2) at a minimal resistance (1111 Ohm cm2). Modification of the anode by multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) led to a slight decrease of internal resistance (down to 1078 Ohm cm2) and to an increase of generated power density up to 10.6 μW/cm2. We explored the possibility of accumulating electric energy from an MFC on a 6800-μF capacitor via a boost converter. Generated voltage was increased from 0.3 V up to 3.2 V. Accumulated energy was used to power a Clark-type biosensor and a Bluetooth transmitter with three sensors, a miniature electric motor and a light-emitting diode.
Recent Progress in the Joining of Titanium Alloys to Ceramics
Authors: Simões Sónia
Published: October 2018

The prospect of joining titanium alloys to advanced ceramics and producing components with extraordinary and unique properties can expand the range of potential applications. This is extremely attractive in components for the automotive and aerospace industries where combining high temperature resistance, wear resistance and thermal stability with low density materials, good flowability and high oxidation resistance is likely. Therefore, a combination of distinct properties and characteristics that would not be possible through conventional production routes is expected. Due to the differences between the coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) and Young's modulus of metals and ceramics, the most appropriate methods for such dissimilar bonding are brazing, diffusion bonding, and transient liquid phase (TLP) bonding. For the joining of titanium alloys to ceramics, brazing appears to be the most promising and cost-effective process although diffusion bonding and TLP bonding have clear advantages in the production of reliable joints. However, several challenges must be overcome to successfully produce these dissimilar joints. In this context, the purpose of this review is to point out the same challenges and the most recent advances that have been investigated to produce reliable titanium alloys and ceramic joints.
Actuation of Flexible Membranes via Capillary Force: Single-Active-Surface Experiments
Authors: Barth Christina , Knospe Carl
Published: October 2018

Conventional approaches to microscale actuation, such as electrostatic, have difficulty in achieving large motion at moderate voltages. Recently, actuators relying on the active control of capillary pressure have been demonstrated, with the pressure change caused by electrowetting on a pair of opposing surfaces. In this work, experimental results are presented from five prototype devices in which only a single active surface is used. The results demonstrate that pressure changes induced in a liquid bridge in this manner can produce large deflections (15 μm) of a flexible membrane. Voltages employed in the tests were moderate (≤25 V). The influence of several design variables, such as membrane diameter and thickness, on the membrane deflection are examined. Theoretical predictions are also presented and generally follow the experimental values. Potential sources for the discrepancies between theory and experimental results are discussed. While deflections obtained using a single active surface are not as large as those obtained with two active surfaces, single-active-surface configurations offer a simple route to achieving adequate deflections for lab-on-a-chip microsystems.
Parafiniukite, Ca2Mn3(PO4)3Cl, a New Member of the Apatite Supergroup from the Szklary Pegmatite, Lower Silesia, Poland: Description and Crystal Structure
Authors: Pieczka Adam , Biagioni Cristian , Gołębiowska Bożena , Jeleń Piotr , Pasero Marco , Sitarz Maciej
Published: October 2018

Parafiniukite, ideally Ca2Mn3(PO4)3Cl, is a new apatite-supergroup mineral from the Szklary pegmatite, Lower Silesia, Poland. It occurs as anhedral grains, up to 250 µm in size, dark olive green in colour, embedded in a mixture of Mn-oxides and smectites around beusite. It has a vitreous luster, and it is brittle with irregular, uneven fracture. The calculated density is 3.614 g·cm−3. Parafiniukite is hexagonal, space group P63/m, with unit-cell parameters a = 9.4900(6), c = 6.4777(5) Å, V = 505.22(5) Å3, Z = 2. The eight strongest reflections in the calculated X-ray powder diffraction pattern of parafiniukite are [d in Å (I) hkl]: 3.239 (39) 002; 2.801 (55) 211; 2.801 (76) 121; 2.740 (100) 300; 2.675 (50) 112; 2.544 (69) 202; 1.914 (31) 222; and 1.864 (22) 132. Chemical analysis by an electron microprobe gave (in wt%) P2O5 39.20, MgO 0.19, CaO 24.14, MnO 31.19, FeO 2.95, Na2O 0.05, F 0.39, Cl 3.13, H2O(calc) 0.68, O=(Cl,F) −0.87, sum 101.05. The resulting empirical formula on the basis of 13 anions per formula unit is (Mn2.39Ca2.34Fe0.22Mg0.03Na0.01)Σ4.99P3.00O12[Cl0.48(OH)0.41F0.11]. The crystal structure of parafiniukite was refined to an R1 = 0.0463 for 320 independent reflections with Fo > 4σ(Fo) and 41 refined parameters. Parafiniukite is isotypic with apatites. Manganese is the dominant cation at the M(2) site, and Ca is the dominant cation at the M(1) site.
Trace Element Contents in Sphalerite from the Nayongzhi Zn-Pb Deposit, Northwestern Guizhou, China: Insights into Incorporation Mechanisms, Metallogenic Temperature and Ore Genesis
Authors: Wei Chen , Huang Zhilong , Yan Zaifei , Hu Yusi , Ye Lin
Published: October 2018

The Nayongzhi Zn-Pb deposit, located in the southeastern margin of the Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou (S-Y-G) Zn-Pb metallogenic province, China, has been recently discovered in this region and has an estimated resource of 1.52 Mt of metal at average grades of 4.82 wt % Zn and 0.57 wt % Pb. The ore bodies are hosted in the Lower Cambrian Qingxudong Formation dolostone and occur as stratiform, stratoid and steeply dipping veins. The predominant minerals are sphalerite, galena, dolomite, calcite with minor pyrite, and barite. In this paper, the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) technique has been used to investigate the concentrations of Fe, Cd, Ge, Ga, Cu, Pb, Ag, In, Sn, Sb, Co and Mn in bulk grain sphalerite from the Nayongzhi deposit, in an effort to provide significant insights into the element substitution mechanisms, ore-forming temperature and genesis of the deposit. This study shows that those trace elements (i.e., Cd, In, Sn, Sb, Fe, Mn, Cu, Ga, Ge, Ag, and Co) are present in the form of isomorphism in sphalerite, and strong binary correlation among some elements suggests direct substitution as Zn2+↔Fe2+ and coupled substitutions as Zn2+↔Ga3+ + (Cu, Ag)+ and Zn2+↔In3+ + Sn3+ + □ (vacancy), despite there being no clear evidence for the presence of Sn3+. Sphalerite from the Nayongzhi deposit is enriched in Cd, Ge and Ga and depleted in Fe, Mn, In and Co, which is similar to that of the Mississippi Valley-type (MVT) deposit and significantly different from that of the Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) deposit, Sedimentary-exhalative (Sedex) deposit, skarn, and epithermal hydrothermal deposit. Moreover, the ore-forming temperature is relatively low, ranging from 100.5 to 164.4 °C, as calculated by the GGIMFis geothermometer. Geological characteristics, mineralogy and trace element contents of sphalerite suggest that the Nayongzhi deposit is a MVT deposit. In addition, according to the geological characteristics, Ag content in sphalerite, and Pb isotope evidence, the Nayongzhi deposit is distinct from the deposits associated with the Indosinian Orogeny in S-Y-G Zn-Pb metallogenic province (e.g., Huize, Daliangzi, Tianbaoshan and Tianqiao deposits), thus, suggesting that multi-stage Zn-Pb mineralization may have occurred in this region.
VE-Albumin Core-Shell Nanoparticles for Paclitaxel Delivery to Treat MDR Breast Cancer
Authors: Tang Bo , Qian Yu , Gou Yi , Cheng Gang , Fang Guihua
Published: October 2018

Multi-drug resistance (MDR) presents a serious problem in cancer chemotherapy. In this study, Vitamin E (VE)-Albumin core-shell nanoparticles were developed for paclitaxel (PTX) delivery to improve the chemotherapy efficacy in an MDR breast cancer model. The PTX-loaded VE-Albumin core-shell nanoparticles (PTX-VE NPs) had small particle sizes (about 100 nm), high drug entrapment efficiency (95.7%) and loading capacity (12.5%), and showed sustained release profiles, in vitro. Docking studies indicated that the hydrophobic interaction and hydrogen bonds play a significant role in the formation of the PTX-VE NPs. The results of confocal laser scanning microscopy analysis demonstrated that the cell uptake of PTX was significantly increased by the PTX-VE NPs, compared with the NPs without VE (PTX NPs). The PTX-VE NPs also exhibited stronger cytotoxicity, compared with PTX NPs with an increased accumulation of PTX in the MCF-7/ADR cells. Importantly, the PTX-VE NPs showed a higher anti-cancer efficacy in MCF-7/ADR tumor xenograft model than the PTX NPs and the PTX solutions. Overall, the VE-Albumin core-shell nanoparticles could be a promising nanocarrier for PTX delivery to improve the chemotherapeutic efficacy of MDR cancer.
A Review on the Recent Progress in Matrix Solid Phase Dispersion
Authors: Tu Xijuan , Chen Wenbin
Published: October 2018

Matrix solid phase dispersion (MSPD) has proven to be an efficient sample preparation method for solid, semi-solid, and viscous samples. Applications of MSPD have covered biological, food, and environmental samples, including both organic and inorganic analytes. This review presents an update on the development of MSPD in the period 2015~June 2018. In the first part of this review, we focus on the latest development in MSPD sorbent, including molecularly imprinted polymers, and carbon-based nanomaterials etc. The second part presents the miniaturization of MSPD, discussing the progress in both micro-MSPD and mini-MSPD. The on-line/in-line techniques for improving the automation and sample throughput are also discussed. The final part summarizes the success in the modification of original MSPD procedures.
Bioactive Constituents of Lamium album L. as Inhibitors of Cytokine Secretion in Human Neutrophils
Authors: Czerwińska Monika E. , Świerczewska Anita , Granica Sebastian
Published: October 2018

The traditional role of Lamium album L. (white dead nettle, Lamiaceae) in providing relief from pain in rheumatism as well as vaginal and cervical inflammation was described. The aim of the study was to screen for the anti-inflammatory bioactivity of compounds isolated from aqueous-methanolic extract of Lamium album herb in human neutrophils (PMNs). The effect of the compounds on the inhibition of selected inflammatory markers released by neutrophils, such as cytokines (IL-8, TNF-α), was studied. The molecular masses and the purity of compounds were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MSn). The level of cytokines production after incubation with the compounds (1–25 µM) was measured by ELISA. Two derivatives of quercetin, not previously described, were isolated in this study. Phenylpropanoids (verbascoside and phlinoside D), as well as iridoids (lamalbid, and shanzhiside methyl ester), and flavonoids revealed to be more significant inhibitors of IL-8 secretion than TNF-α. The compounds at a concentration of 25 µM, except for shanzhiside methyl ester (6), inhibited secretion of IL-8 in the range from 29.1 to 50.0%. In conclusion, L. album might be a valuable source of bioactive compounds and may provide constituents to limit noninfectious inflammation associated with the aforementioned diseases.
Application of New Sodium Vinyl Sulfonate–co-2-Acrylamido-2-me[thylpropane Sulfonic Acid Sodium Salt-Magnetite Cryogel Nanocomposites for Fast Methylene Blue Removal from Industrial Waste Water
Authors: Al-Hussain Sami A. , Atta Ayman M. , Al-Lohedan Hamad A. , Ezzat Abdelrahman O. , Tawfeek Ahmed M.
Published: October 2018

Inorganic nanoparticles based on magnetite were used to improve the mechanical, thermal, and magnetic properties of microporous cryogel polymer composites. Here we report the synthesis of microporous cryogel based on the crosslinked sodium vinyl sulfonate (Na-VS) and 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid sodium salt (Na-AMPS). The magnetite nanoparticles were incorporated into Na-VS/Na-AMPS cryogel networks either during its crosslinking polymerization or by the in-situ technique after its crosslinking. The morphology, particle sizes, thermal stability, and magnetite contents of Na-VS/Na-AMPS cryogel and its magnetite composite were investigated. The prepared Na-VS/Na-AMPS cryogel and its magnetite composite were used as adsorbents for methylene blue (MB) cationic dye using optimum conditions. The magnetite Na-VS/Na-AMPS cryogel composite prepared by in-situ technique achieved the best adsorption MB removal capacity for 7 cycles among the other adsorbents via chemical adsorption mechanism at room temperature.
Call for Role Development and Application of the Monitoring Profile in ADEs and ADRs
Authors: Vaismoradi Mojtaba
Published: October 2018

Adverse Drug Events (ADEs) are injuries resulting from medicine-related interventions. [...]
An RGD-Containing Peptide Derived from Wild Silkworm Silk Fibroin Promotes Cell Adhesion and Spreading
Authors: Kang Zhao , Wang Yining , Xu Jingjing , Song Guangzhou , Ding Mengyao , Zhao Huanrong , Wang Jiannan
Published: October 2018

Arginine-Glycine-Aspartate (RGD) tripeptide can promote cell adhesion when present in the amino acid of proteins such as fibronectin. In order to demonstrate the bioactivity of an RGD-containing silk protein, a gene encoding the RGD motif-containing peptide GSGAGGRGDGGYGSGSS (–RGD–) derived from nonmulberry silk was designed and cloned, then multimerised and inserted into a commercial pGEX expression vector for recombinant expression of (–RGD–)n peptides. Herein, we focus on two glutathione-S-transferase (GST)-tagged fusion proteins, GST–(–RGD–)4 and GST–(–RGD–)8, which were expressed in Escherichia coli BL21, purified by GST affinity chromatography, and analyzed with sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and mass spectrometry (MS). Target peptides (–RGD–)4 and (–RGD–)8 (6.03 and 11.5 kDa) were cleaved from the GST-tag by thrombin digestion, as verified with MS and SDS-PAGE. Isoelectric point analysis confirmed that target peptides were expressed and released in accordance with the original design. Target peptides self-assembled into a mainly α-helical structure, as determined by circular dichroism spectroscopy. Furthermore, (–RGD–)4 and (–RGD–)8 modified mulberry silk fibroin films were more effective for rapid cell adhesion, spreading and proliferative activity of L929 cells than some chemically synthesized RGD peptides modified and mulberry silk lacking the RGD motif.
Precise Dissolution Control and Bioavailability Evaluation for Insoluble Drug Berberine via a Polymeric Particle Prepared Using Supercritical CO2
Authors: Jia Jingfu , Zhang Kerong , Zhou Xue , Zhou Dan , Ge Fahuan
Published: October 2018

It is still controversial whether poor aqueous solubility is the most primary reason for the low oral bioavailability of insoluble drugs. Therefore, in this study, berberine-loaded solid polymeric particles (BPs) of varied dissolution profiles with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) as carrier were fabricated using solution-enhanced dispersion by supercritical fluids (SEDS), and the relationship between dissolution and berberine (BBR) bioavailability was evaluated. Dissolution property was controlled via particle morphology manipulation, which was achieved by adjusting several key operating parameters during the SEDS process. Characterization on BP using infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction indicated that BBR was dispersed in amorphous form, while nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed that methoxy groups of BBR were included into the cavities of β-CD. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies showed that oral bioavailability increased by about 54% and 86% when the dissolution rate of BBR was increased by 51% and 83%, respectively. The entry speed of BBR into the bloodstream was also advanced with the degree of dissolution enhancement. It seemed that dissolution enhancement gave positive effect to the oral bioavailability of berberine, but this might not be the crucial point. Meanwhile, supercritical CO2 technology is a promising method for pharmaceutical research due to its advantages in regulating drug-dosage properties.
Eden Model Simulation of Re-Epithelialization and Angiogenesis of an Epidermal Wound
Authors: Agyingi Ephraim , Wakabayashi Luke , Wiandt Tamas , Maggelakis Sophia
Published: October 2018

Among the vital processes of cutaneous wound healing are epithelialization and angiogenesis. The former leads to the successful closure of the wound while the latter ensures that nutrients are delivered to the wound region during and after healing is completed. These processes are regulated by various cytokines and growth factors that subtend their proliferation and migration into the wound region until full healing is attained. Wound epithelialization can be enhanced by the administration of epidermal stem cells (ESC) or impaired by the presence of an infection. This paper uses the Eden model of a growing cluster to independently simulate the processes of epithelialization and angiogenesis in a cutaneous wound for different geometries. Further, simulations illustrating bacterial infection are provided. Our simulation results demonstrate contraction and closure for any wound geometry due to a collective migration of epidermal cells from the wound edge in fractal form and the diffusion of capillary sprouts with the laying down of capillary blocks behind moving tips into the wound area.
Introducing Christian Spirituality to Joseon Korea—Three Responses from Confucian Scholars
Authors: Chung So-Yi
Published: October 2018

When the books written by Jesuit missionaries were introduced to Joseon Korea via China during the 18th century, Joseon Confucian scholars were drawn to not only western science and technologies but also to theological ideas centered on Christian spirituality. Among many foreign conceptions, the most alien were the following three: immortality of the soul; eternal life in heaven or in hell after death; and finally, the resurrection of the body. There had been three responses from all levels of society: refutation, recognition, and reconciliation. First, Shin Hudam (1702–1761) wrote a book, Disputation on Western Learning, to dispute the above three doctrines as being most unreasonable and contradictory. Meanwhile, Jeong Yag-Jong (1760–1801) found that the doctrines were the true path to the salvation of human suffering and wrote the first catechistic book in vernacular Korean in the way that appealed to common people with Confucian backgrounds. Finally, Jeong Yag-Yong (1762–1836) was extremely careful, neither embracing nor rejecting, yet suggested alternative ways to address the core Christian theological problems without crossing the boundaries of Confucianism. All three were active dedicated responses to Christian spirituality and genuine Christian-Confucian dialogues, which also reflected common concerns and attitudes toward a new religion in Korean society.
Assessing Radiometric Correction Approaches for Multi-Spectral UAS Imagery for Horticultural Applications
Authors: Tu Yu-Hsuan , Phinn Stuart , Johansen Kasper , Robson Andrew
Published: October 2018

Multi-spectral imagery captured from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) is becoming increasingly popular for the improved monitoring and managing of various horticultural crops. However, for UAS-based data to be used as an industry standard for assessing tree structure and condition as well as production parameters, it is imperative that the appropriate data collection and pre-processing protocols are established to enable multi-temporal comparison. There are several UAS-based radiometric correction methods commonly used for precision agricultural purposes. However, their relative accuracies have not been assessed for data acquired in complex horticultural environments. This study assessed the variations in estimated surface reflectance values of different radiometric corrections applied to multi-spectral UAS imagery acquired in both avocado and banana orchards. We found that inaccurate calibration panel measurements, inaccurate signal-to-reflectance conversion, and high variation in geometry between illumination, surface, and sensor viewing produced significant radiometric variations in at-surface reflectance estimates. Potential solutions to address these limitations included appropriate panel deployment, site-specific sensor calibration, and appropriate bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) correction. Future UAS-based horticultural crop monitoring can benefit from the proposed solutions to radiometric corrections to ensure they are using comparable image-based maps of multi-temporal biophysical properties.
Vegetation Indices Do Not Capture Forest Cover Variation in Upland Siberian Larch Forests
Authors: Loranty Michael M. , Davydov Sergey P. , Kropp Heather , Alexander Heather D. , Mack Michelle C. , Natali Susan M. , Zimov Nikita S.
Published: October 2018

Boreal forests are changing in response to climate, with potentially important feedbacks to regional and global climate through altered carbon cycle and albedo dynamics. These feedback processes will be affected by vegetation changes, and feedback strengths will largely rely on the spatial extent and timing of vegetation change. Satellite remote sensing is widely used to monitor vegetation dynamics, and vegetation indices (VIs) are frequently used to characterize spatial and temporal trends in vegetation productivity. In this study we combine field observations of larch forest cover across a 25 km2 upland landscape in northeastern Siberia with high-resolution satellite observations to determine how the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) are related to forest cover. Across 46 forest stands ranging from 0% to 90% larch canopy cover, we find either no change, or declines in NDVI and EVI derived from PlanetScope CubeSat and Landsat data with increasing forest cover. In conjunction with field observations of NDVI, these results indicate that understory vegetation likely exerts a strong influence on vegetation indices in these ecosystems. This suggests that positive decadal trends in NDVI in Siberian larch forests may correspond primarily to increases in understory productivity, or even to declines in forest cover. Consequently, positive NDVI trends may be associated with declines in terrestrial carbon storage and increases in albedo, rather than increases in carbon storage and decreases in albedo that are commonly assumed. Moreover, it is also likely that important ecological changes such as large changes in forest density or variable forest regrowth after fire are not captured by long-term NDVI trends.
Continuous Daily Evapotranspiration Estimation at the Field-Scale over Heterogeneous Agricultural Areas by Fusing ASTER and MODIS Data
Authors: Yi Zhenyan , Zhao Hongli , Jiang Yunzhong
Published: October 2018

Continuous daily evapotranspiration (ET) monitoring at the field-scale is crucial for water resource management in irrigated agricultural areas in arid regions. Here, an integrated framework for daily ET, with the required spatiotemporal resolution, is described. Multi-scale surface energy balance algorithm evaluations and a data fusion algorithm are combined to optimally exploit the spatial and temporal characteristics of image datasets, collected by the advanced space-borne thermal emission reflectance radiometer (ASTER) and the moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS). Through combination with a linear unmixing-based method, the spatial and temporal adaptive reflectance fusion model (STARFM) is modified to generate high-resolution ET estimates for heterogeneous areas. The performance of this methodology was evaluated for irrigated agricultural fields in arid and semiarid areas of Northwest China. Compared with the original STARFM, a significant improvement in daily ET estimation accuracy was obtained by the modified STARFM (overall mean absolute percentage error (MAP): 12.9% vs. 17.2%; root mean square error (RMSE): 0.7 mm d−1 vs. 1.2 mm d−1). The modified STARFM additionally preserved more spatial details than the original STARFM for heterogeneous agricultural fields, and provided field-to-field variability in water use. Improvements were further evident in the continuous daily ET, where the day-to-day dynamics of ET estimates were captured. ET data fusion provides a unique means of monitoring continuous daily crop ET values at the field-scale in agricultural areas, and may have value in supporting operational water management decisions.
Use of Transient Time Response as a Measure to Characterize Phononic Crystal Sensors
Authors: Villa-Arango Simón , Betancur David , Torres Róbinson , Kyriacou Panayiotis
Published: October 2018

Phononic crystals are periodic composite structures with specific resonant features that are gaining popularity in the field as liquid sensors. The introduction of a structural defect in an otherwise periodic regular arrangement can generate a resonant mode, also called defect mode, inside the characteristic band gaps of phononic crystals. The morphology, as well as the frequency in which these defect modes appear, can give useful information on the composition and properties of an analyte. Currently, only gain and frequency measurements are performed using phononic crystal sensors. Other measurements like the transient response have been implemented in resonant sensors such as quartz microbalances showing great results and proving to be a great complimentary measure to the gain and frequency measurements. In the present paper, a study of the feasibility of using the transient response as a measure to acquire additional information about the analyte is presented. Theoretical studies using the transmission line model were realized to show the impact of variations in the concentration of an analyte, in this case, lithium carbonate solutions, in the transient time of the system. Experimental realizations were also performed showing that the proposed measurement scheme presents significant changes in the resulting data, indicating the potential use of this measure in phononic crystal sensors. This proposed measure could be implemented as a stand-alone measure or as a compliment to current sensing modalities.
A CORS-Based Differential Correction Approach for AIS Mobile Stations
Authors: Hu Qing , Xu Linlin , Cheng Xinyu
Published: October 2018

In order to remedy the inadequacy of the sources of differential corrections in current automatic identification system (AIS) and to improve the positioning accuracy of AIS mobile stations using single-point positioning, a differential correction approach for AIS mobile stations based on the continuously operating reference station (CORS) network is proposed. In the approach, AIS server derives real-time pseudo-range differential corrections from each reference station in CORS network and generates the corrections for AIS mobile stations. Then AIS base stations transmit these differential corrections to mobile stations using broadcast or addressed binary messages for positioning. Load analysis and testing show that this approach can effectively meet the need for differential corrections for most AIS mobile stations under the condition that the occupancy rate of the AIS channel is less than 1% when using broadcast binary messages. In addition, since this method is based on the existing CORS network, it is straightforward to implement in engineering projects and does not require additional hardware upgrades to the existing differential global positioning system (DGPS) and AIS infrastructure.
Surface Acoustic Wave Hydrogen Sensors Based on Nanostructured Pd/WO3 Bilayers
Authors: Miu Dana , Birjega Ruxandra , Viespe Cristian
Published: October 2018

The effect of nanostructure of PLD (Pulsed Laser Deposition)-deposited Pd/WO3 sensing films on room temperature (RT) hydrogen sensing properties of SAW (Surface Acoustic Wave) sensors was studied. WO3 thin films with different morphologies and crystalline structures were obtained for different substrate temperatures and oxygen deposition pressures. Nanoporous films are obtained at high deposition pressures regardless of the substrate temperature. At lower pressures, high temperatures lead to WO3 c-axis nanocolumnar growth, which promotes the diffusion of hydrogen but only once H2 has been dissociated in the nanoporous Pd layer. XRD (X-ray Diffraction) analysis indicates texturing of the WO3 layer not only in the case of columnar growth but for other deposition conditions as well. However, it is only the predominantly c-axis growth that influences film sensing properties. Bilayers consisting of nanoporous Pd layers deposited on top of such WO3 layers lead to good sensing results at RT. RT sensitivities of 0.12–0.13 Hz/ppm to hydrogen are attained for nanoporous bilayer Pd/WO3 films and of 0.1 Hz/ppm for bilayer films with a nanocolumnar WO3 structure. SAW sensors based on such layers compare favorably with WO3-based hydrogen detectors, which use other sensing methods, and with SAW sensors with dense Pd/WO3 bilayers.
Strong Welfare States Do Not Intensify Public Support for Income Redistribution, but Even Reduce It among the Prosperous: A Multilevel Analysis of Public Opinion in 30 Countries
Authors: Evans M. D. R. , Kelley Jonathan
Published: October 2018

How tightly linked are the strength of a country’s welfare state and its residents’ support for income redistribution? Multilevel model results (with appropriate controls) show that the publics of strong welfare states recognize their egalitarian income distributions, i.e., the stronger the welfare state, the less the actual and perceived inequality; but they do not differ from their peers in liberal welfare states/market-oriented societies in their preferences for equality. Thus, desire for redistribution bears little overall relationship to welfare state activity. However, further investigation shows a stronger relationship under the surface: Poor people’s support for redistribution is nearly constant across levels of welfarism. By contrast, the stronger the welfare state, the less the support for redistribution among the prosperous, perhaps signaling “harvest fatigue” due to paying high taxes and longstanding egalitarian policies. Our findings are not consistent with structuralist/materialist theory, nor with simple dominant ideology or system justification arguments, but are partially consistent with a legitimate framing hypothesis, with an atomistic self-interest hypothesis, with a reference group solidarity hypothesis, and with the “me-and-mine” hypothesis incorporating sociotropic and egotropic elements. Database: the World Inequality Study: 30 countries, 71 surveys, and over 88,0000 individuals.
Larger Countermovement Increases the Jump Height of Countermovement Jump
Authors: Sánchez-Sixto Alberto , Harrison Andrew , Floría Pablo
Published: October 2018

Simulation studies show that jump performance can be improved by increasing the depth of countermovement. The purpose of this study was to determine how modifications to the depth of countermovement lead to changes in jump height and the biomechanical parameters related to center of mass displacement and force application. Twenty-nine competitive males participated in this investigation, performing nine countermovement jumps using a self-selected, a deep, and a shallow crouch position. Jump height and relative net vertical impulse were greater when using a deeper crouch position, compared to the self-selected position. Force application variables did not report differences, when the deeper countermovement was compared to the self-selected countermovement; although, the shallower countermovement showed higher values in force application parameters. The deeper countermovement jumps achieved higher velocities of the center of mass than the self-selected jumps, while shallower jumps produced lower velocities than the self-selected jumps. The results of this investigation were consistent with simulation studies, showing that deep countermovements increase net vertical impulse, leading to a higher jump height. In addition, the maximum downward velocity was higher, when the crouch position was deeper. Conversely, force-applied variables did not change when jump performance was increased.
Optimization of the Separation Efficiency of Buckwheat Seeds and Wild Radish Siliques in a Grader with Indented Pockets
Authors: Konopka Stanisław , Markowski Piotr , Kaliniewicz Zdzisław , Choszcz Dariusz Jan , Lipiński Adam Józef , Kusińska Elżbieta
Published: October 2018

The separation parameters and indicators of separation efficiency of a mixture of two types of seeds in a grader equipped with five interchangeable cylinders with indented pockets of various depths were optimized. The analyzed mixture was composed of buckwheat seeds and wild radish siliques, which are difficult to separate. A self-made computer program based on genetic algorithms was developed for the needs of the study. The value of the optimized indicator of separation efficiency (ε = 0.993), which is a product of partial indicators (buckwheat seed yield ε1 and separation efficiency of wild radish siliques ε2), was highest at the following operating parameters: Depth of indented pocket s = 2.9 mm, kinematic index k = 0.25, static load rating of a cylinder q = 0.1, and inclination angle of the working edge of the trough α = 12.0°.
Understanding the Evolution of Industrial Symbiosis with a System Dynamics Model: A Case Study of Hai Hua Industrial Symbiosis, China
Authors: Cui Hua , Liu Changhao , Côté Raymond , Liu Weifeng
Published: October 2018

Industrial symbiosis (IS) is a key sub-field in industrial ecology. The field itself assists in developing strategies that support local and regional sustainable development. The evolution of IS is an important topic to be explored. In this paper, we use the system dynamics (SD) method to establish a model of the evolution of industrial symbiosis in the case of Hai Hua Industrial Symbiosis (HHIS). In this model, different scenarios for energy consumption, solid waste utilization, and wastewater utilization were set by changing the parameter values of certain input variables to analyze the evolution of HHIS. In addition, the drivers for IS evolution were investigated qualitatively in this study. The SD model was helpful for visualizing the effects and benefits of reducing the energy consumption, solid waste stock, and wastewater stock that were achieved by establishing symbiotic relationships during the evolution of IS. The results show that the optimization of energy and material flows and other symbiotic benefits can be achieved in HHIS. There are still some challenges that restrict the further evolution of HHIS. Some suggestions are proposed to promote its further evolution.
How Physical Environment Impacts Visitors’ Behavior in Learning-Based Tourism—The Example of Technology Museum
Authors: Zhang Heng , Chang Po-Chien , Tsai Ming-Fong
Published: October 2018

Visiting a museum is a popular activity in the tourism industry, especially in cultural and learning-based tourism. To help plan museums effectively, this study investigated the underlying motivations and constraints and their impact on the perceived physical environment and visitor satisfaction toward a museum. The results suggest that the physical environment of museums serves as an axial mediator among motivations, constraints and visitor satisfaction. Six essential factors of physical environment are affected by motivations and constraints, further affecting visitor satisfaction in various patterns, in which architectural planning, exhibition, external environment, and entrance are clearly affected by basic motivations and constraints. Under motivations, family education and self-development are the most two profound influences on enhancing visitor satisfaction through the physical environment. Shops and café are worth special attention in meeting motivation of attractiveness, occasion and social interaction. The results could support the planning and design of a satisfactory museum.
Sustainable Higher Education and Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL)
Authors: Daniela Linda , Visvizi Anna , Gutiérrez-Braojos Calixto , Lytras Miltiadis D.
Published: October 2018

The field of education is not immune to advances in sophisticated information and communication technology (ICT). Going beyond the ICT-hype, the objective of this paper is to examine to what extent and how technology-enhanced teaching and learning (TEL) can enhance teaching and learning and, hence, turn them into levers of sustainable socio-economic growth and development. To address these questions, a multidimensional survey was developed and distributed internationally to lecturers/professors active in the field of higher education. The initial point of departure for this study was consistent with the well-referenced in the literature thesis that TEL has profound value added in view of enhancing the teaching and learning process. Yet, as the outcomes of the survey underpinning the discussion in this paper suggest, there is much more is at stake than that. Indeed, it is argued that several conditions need to be fulfilled if technology is to serve as a benefit, and not an obstacle to teaching and learning, and thus boost the delivery of quality education. This paper outlines them.