bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prioritized Linguistic Interval-Valued Aggregation Operators and Their Applications in Group Decision-Making Problems
Authors: Kumar Kamal , Garg Harish
Published: October 2018

The linguistic interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy (LIVIF) set is an efficient tool to represent data in the form of interval membership degrees in a qualitative rather than a quantitative manner. The LIVIF set combines the features of interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IFSs) and the linguistic variables (LV) and hence provides more freedom to decision-makers. Under this environment, the main objective of this manuscript is to propose some new aggregation operators by capturing the prioritized relationship between the objects. For this, different weighted averaging and geometric aggregation operators are proposed in which preferences related to each object are expressed in terms of LIVIF numbers. Desirable properties of the proposed operators are studied. Further, a group decision-making (DM) approach is presented to solve the multi-attribute DM problems, and its efficiency has been verified with an illustrative example.
Structure and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of a New Unusual Fucosylated Chondroitin Sulfate from Cucumaria djakonovi
Authors: Ustyuzhanina Nadezhda E. , Bilan Maria I. , Panina Elena G. , Sanamyan Nadezhda P. , Dmitrenok Andrey S. , Tsvetkova Eugenia A. , Ushakova Natalia A. , Shashkov Alexander S. , Nifantiev Nikolay E. , Usov Anatolii I.
Published: October 2018

Fucosylated chondroitin sulfate CD was isolated from the sea cucumber Cucumaria djakonovi collected from the Avachinsky Gulf of the eastern coast of Kamchatka. Structural characterization of CD was performed using a series of non-destructive NMR spectroscopic procedures. The polysaccharide was shown to contain a chondroitin core [→3)-β-d-GalNAc-(1→4)-β-d-GlcA-(1→]n where about 60% of GlcA residues were 3-O-fucosylated, while another part of GlcA units did not contain any substituents. The presence of unsubstituted both at O-2 and O-3 glucuronic acid residues in a structure of holothurian chondroitin sulfate is unusual and has not been reported previously. Three different fucosyl branches Fucp2S4S, Fucp3S4S and Fucp4S were found in the ratio of 2:1:1. The GalNAc units were mono- or disulfated at positions 4 and 6. Anti-inflammatory activity of CD was assessed on a model of acute peritoneal inflammation in rats. About 45% inhibition was found for CD, while a structurally related linear chondroitin sulfate SS from cartilage of the fish Salmo salar demonstrated only 31% inhibition, indicating that the presence of sulfated fucosyl branches is essential for anti-inflammatory effect of chondroitin sulfates of marine origin.
Controlling Normal Stiffness in Droplet-Based Linear Bearings
Authors: Ni Qi , Crane Nathan
Published: October 2018

While capillary forces are negligible relative to gravity at the macroscale, they provide adequate force to effectively manipulate millimeter to micro meter objects. The fluidic actuation can be accomplished using droplets that also act as bearings. While rotary droplet bearings have been previously demonstrated, this paper addresses the positioning accuracy of a droplet-based bearing consisting of a droplet between a moving plate and a stationary substrate with constrained wetting region under a normal load. Key wetting cases are analyzed using both closed form analytical approximations and numerical simulations. The vertical force and stiffness characteristics are analyzed in relation to the wetting boundaries of the supporting surface. Case studies of different wetting boundaries are presented and summarized. Design strategies are presented for maximizing load carrying capability and stiffness. These results show that controlled wetting and opposing droplet configurations can create much higher stiffness fluidic bearings than simple droplets.
Editorial for the Special Issue on Interface Circuits for Microsensor Integrated Systems
Authors: Ferri Giuseppe , Stornelli Vincenzo
Published: October 2018

Recent advances in sensing technologies, especially those for Microsensor Integrated Systems, have led to several new commercial applications. [...]
Editorial for Special Issue “Geomicrobiology and Biogeochemistry of Precious Metals”
Authors: Reith Frank , Shuster Jeremiah
Published: October 2018

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Evaluating Marine Cyanobacteria as a Source for CNS Receptor Ligands
Authors: Rague Andrea L. , Parker Stacy-Ann J. , Tidgewell Kevin J.
Published: October 2018

Natural products have a long history as a source of psychoactive agents and pharmacological tools for understanding the brain and its circuitry. In the last two decades, marine cyanobacteria have become a standard source of natural product ligands with cytotoxic properties. The study of cyanobacterial metabolites as CNS modulatory agents has remained largely untapped, despite the need for new molecules to treat and understand CNS disorders. We have generated a library of 301 fractions from 37 field collected cyanobacterial samples and screened these fractions against a panel of CNS receptors using radiolabeled ligand competitive-binding assays. Herein we present an analysis of the screening data collected to date, which show that cyanobacteria are prolific producers of compounds which bind to important CNS receptors, including those for 5-HT, DA, monoamine transporters, adrenergic, sigma, and cannabinoid receptors. In addition to the analysis of our screening efforts, we will also present the isolation of five compounds from the same cyanobacterial collection to illustrate how pre-fractionation followed by radioligand screening can lead to rapid identification of selective CNS agents. The systematic screening of natural products sources, specifically filamentous marine cyanobacteria, will yield a number of lead compounds for further development as pharmacological tools and therapeutics.
The Increase of Triterpene Saponin Production Induced by Trans-Anethole in Hairy Root Cultures of Panax quinquefolium
Authors: Kochan Ewa , Szymczyk Piotr , Kuźma Łukasz , Szymańska Grażyna , Wajs-Bonikowska Anna , Bonikowski Radosław , Sienkiewicz Monika
Published: October 2018

In vitro cultivation is an effective way to increase pharmaceutical production. To increase ginsenoside production in hairy root cultures of American ginseng, the present study uses trans-anethole as an elicitor. The content of nine triterpene saponins was determined: Rb1, Rb2, Rb3, Rc, Rd, Rg1, Rg2, Re and Rf. Trans-anethole was found to stimulate saponin synthesis regardless of exposure time (24 and 72 h). Twenty-four hour exposure to 1 μmol trans-anethole in the culture medium resulted in the highest increase of total saponin content (twice that of untreated roots), and optimum accumulation of Rb-group saponins, with ginsenoside Rc dominating (8.45 mg g−1 d.w.). In contrast, the highest mean content of protopanaxatriol derivatives was obtained for 10 μmol trans-anethole. The Re metabolite predominated, reaching a concentration of 5.72 mg g−1 d.w.: a 3.9-fold increase over untreated roots. Elicitation with use of trans-anethole can therefore be an effective method of increasing ginsenoside production in shake flasks.
An Eight-Channel C-Band Demux Based on Multicore Photonic Crystal Fiber
Authors: Malka Dror , Katz Gilad
Published: October 2018

A novel eight-channel demux device based on multicore photonic crystal fiber (PCF) structures that operate in the C-band range (1530–1565 nm) has been demonstrated. The PCF demux design is based on replacing some air-hole areas with lithium niobate and silicon nitride materials over the PCF axis alongside with the appropriate optimizations of the PCF structure. The beam propagation method (BPM) combined with Matlab codes was used to model the demux device and optimize the geometrical parameters of the PCF structure. The simulation results showed that the eight-channel demux can be demultiplexing after light propagation of 5 cm with a large bandwidth (4.03–4.69 nm) and cross-talk (−16.88 to −15.93 dB). Thus, the proposed device has great potential to be integrated into dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) technology for increasing performances in networking systems.
Relationship between Mediterranean Dietary Polyphenol Intake and Obesity
Authors: Castro-Barquero Sara , Lamuela-Raventós Rosa M. , Doménech Mónica , Estruch Ramon
Published: October 2018

Obesity is a multifactorial and complex disease defined by excess of adipose mass and constitutes a serious health problem. Adipose tissue acts as an endocrine organ secreting a wide range of inflammatory adipocytokines, which leads to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. The traditional Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high phenolic-rich foods intake, including extra-virgin olive oil, nuts, red wine, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole-grain cereals. Evidence for polyphenols’ effect on obesity and weight control in humans is inconsistent and the health effects of polyphenols depend on the amount consumed and their bioavailability. The mechanisms involved in weight loss in which polyphenols may have a role are: activating β-oxidation; a prebiotic effect for gut microbiota; inducing satiety; stimulating energy expenditure by inducing thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue; modulating adipose tissue inhibiting adipocyte differentiation; promoting adipocyte apoptosis and increasing lipolysis. Even though the intake of some specific polyphenols has been associated with body weight changes, there is still no evidence for the effects of total polyphenols or some polyphenol subclasses in humans on adiposity.
APOE4 Genotype Exerts Greater Benefit in Lowering Plasma Cholesterol and Apolipoprotein B than Wild Type (E3/E3), after Replacement of Dietary Saturated Fats with Low Glycaemic Index Carbohydrates
Authors: Griffin Bruce A. , Walker Celia G. , Jebb Susan A. , Moore Carmel , Frost Gary S. , Goff Louise , Sanders Tom A. B. , Lewis Fiona , Griffin Margaret , Gitau Rachel , Lovegrove Julie A.
Published: October 2018

We examined the impact of APOE genotype on plasma lipids and glucose in a secondary analysis of data from a five-arm, randomised controlled, parallel dietary intervention trial (‘RISCK’ study), to investigate the impact of replacing saturated fatty acids (SFA) with either monounsaturated fat (MUFA) or carbohydrate of high or low glycaemic index (GI) on CVD risk factors and insulin sensitivity. We tested the impact of APOE genotype (carriage of E2 and E4 alleles versus E3/E3), determined retrospectively, on plasma lipids, lipoproteins and glucose homeostasis at baseline (n = 469), and on the change in these variables after 24 weeks of dietary intervention (n = 389). At baseline, carriers of E2 (n = 70), E4 (n = 125) and E3/E3 (n = 274) expressed marked differences in total plasma cholesterol (TC, p = 0.001), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C, p < 0.0001), apolipoprotein B (apo B, p < 0.0001) and total to high density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TC:HDL-C, p = 0.002), with plasma concentrations decreasing in the order E4 > E3/E3 > E2. Following intervention, there was evidence of a significant diet x genotype interaction with significantly greater decreases in TC (p = 0.02) and apo B (p = 0.006) among carriers of E4 when SFA was replaced with low GI carbohydrate on a lower fat diet (TC −0.28 mmol/L p = 0.03; apo B −0.1 g/L p = 0.02), and a relative increase in TC (in comparison to E3/E3) when SFA was replaced with MUFA and high GI carbohydrates (TC 0.3 mmol/L, p = 0.03). Among carriers of E2 (compared with E3/E3) there was an increase in triacylglycerol (TAG) when SFA was replaced with MUFA and low GI carbohydrates 0.46 mmol/L p = 0.001). There were no significant interactions between APOE genotype and diet for changes in indices of glucose homeostasis. In conclusion, variations in APOE genotype led to differential effects on the lipid response to the replacement of SFA with MUFA and low GI carbohydrates.
Effect of Consumption Heated Oils with or without Dietary Cholesterol on the Development of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Idris Che Anishas Che , Sundram Kalyana , Razis Ahmad Faizal Abdull
Published: October 2018

Heating oils and fats for a considerable length of time results in chemical reactions, leading to the aggravation of a free radical processes, which ultimately contributes to atherosclerosis. Our study focused on elucidating the effect of feeding heated oils with or without dietary cholesterol on the development of atherosclerosis in rabbits. We heated palm olein and corn oil at 180 °C for 18 h and 9 h per day, respectively, for two consecutive days. Next, 20 male rabbits were divided into four groups and fed the following diet for 12 weeks: (i) heated palm olein (HPO); (ii) HPO with cholesterol (HPOC); (iii) heated corn oil (HCO); and (iv) HCO with cholesterol (HCOC). Plasma total cholesterol (TC) was significantly lower in the HCO group compared to the HCOC group. Atherosclerotic lesion scores for both fatty plaques and fatty streaks were significantly higher in the HCO and HCOC groups as compared to the HPO and HPOC groups. Additionally, fibrous plaque scores were also higher in the HCO and HCOC groups as compared to the HPO and HPOC groups. These results suggest that heated palm oil confers protection against the onset of atherosclerosis compared to heated polyunsaturated oils in a rabbit model.
Soy Protein-Based Composite Hydrogels: Physico-Chemical Characterization and In Vitro Cytocompatibility
Authors: Tansaz Samira , Singh Raminder , Cicha Iwona , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: October 2018

Novel composite hydrogels based on the combination of alginate (Alg), soy protein isolate (SPI) and bioactive glass (BG) nanoparticles were developed for soft tissue engineering. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and normal human dermal fibroblasts were cultivated on hydrogels for 7, 14 and 21 days. Cell morphology was visualized using fluorescent staining at Days 7 and 14 for fibroblast cells and Days 14 and 21 for HUVEC. Metabolic activity of cells was analyzed using a colorimetric assay (water soluble tetrazolium (WST) assay). Compared to pure Alg, Alg/SPI and Alg/SPI/BG provided superior surfaces for both types of cells, supporting their attachment, growth, spreading and metabolic activity. Fibroblasts showed better colonization and growth on Alg/SPI/BG hydrogels compared to Alg/SPI hydrogels. The results indicate that such novel composite hydrogels might find applications in soft tissue regeneration.
Lignin Phenol Formaldehyde Resoles Using Base-Catalysed Depolymerized Kraft Lignin
Authors: Solt Pia , Rößiger Björn , Konnerth Johannes , Van Herwijnen Hendrikus
Published: October 2018

Lignin phenol formaldehyde (LPF) resols were produced using depolymerized lignin fractions at various levels of phenol substitution (50 to 70 wt %). To produce monomeric-rich (BCD-oil) and oligomeric (BCD-oligomers) bio-based phenolic compounds, softwood kraft lignin was base-catalysed degraded. These base-catalysed depolymerized (BCD) building blocks were further used to substitute phenol in the synthesis of phenolic resins and were characterized in detail (such as viscosity, free formaldehyde and phenol content, chemical composition, curing and bonding behaviour). The adhesive properties were compared to a phenol formaldehyde (PF) reference resin and a LPF with untreated kraft lignin. The resins synthesized with the two depolymerized lignin types differ significantly from each other with increasing phenol substitution. While with LPF-BCD-oligomers the viscosity increases and the bonding strength is not effected by increasing lignin content in the resin, a reduction of these properties could be observed with LPF-BCD-oil. Furthermore, LPF-BCD-oil showed similar curing behaviour and ultimate strength as the reference LPF. Adhesive bonds made using LPF-BCD-oligomers exhibited similar strength to those made using PF. Compared to the reference resins, it has been demonstrated that modified renewable lignin based phenolic components can be an equally performing alternative to phenol even for high degrees of substitution of 70%.
Dispersion Performance of Carbon Nanotubes on Ultra-Light Foamed Concrete
Authors: Zhang Jing , Liu Xiangdong
Published: October 2018

This study investigates the effect of carbon nanotube (CNT) dispersion on the mechanical properties and microstructures of ultra-light foamed concrete. A type of uniform and stable CNT dispersion solution is obtained by adding nano-Ce(SO4)2. Results show that CNT dispersion increases the compressive and breaking strengths of foamed concrete. CNTs play a nuclear role in the crystallization of C–S–H, and CNT dispersion effectively promotes the grain growth of C–S–H. The effect of CNT dispersion on the compressive and breaking strengths of foamed concrete is predicted through simulation.
The Random Forest-Based Method of Fine-Resolution Population Spatialization by Using the International Space Station Nighttime Photography and Social Sensing Data
Authors: Li Kangning , Chen Yunhao , Li Ying
Published: October 2018

Despite the importance of high-resolution population distribution in urban planning, disaster prevention and response, region economic development, and improvement of urban habitant environment, traditional urban investigations mainly focused on large-scale population spatialization by using coarse-resolution nighttime light (NTL) while few efforts were made to fine-resolution population mapping. To address problems of generating small-scale population distribution, this paper proposed a method based on the Random Forest Regression model to spatialize a 25 m population from the International Space Station (ISS) photography and urban function zones generated from social sensing data—point-of-interest (POI). There were three main steps, namely HSL (hue saturation lightness) transformation and saturation calibration of ISS, generating functional-zone maps based on point-of-interest, and spatializing population based on the Random Forest model. After accuracy assessments by comparing with WorldPop, the proposed method was validated as a qualified method to generate fine-resolution population spatial maps. In the discussion, this paper suggested that without help of auxiliary data, NTL cannot be directly employed as a population indicator at small scale. The Variable Importance Measure of the RF model confirmed the correlation between features and population and further demonstrated that urban functions performed better than LULC (Land Use and Land Cover) in small-scale population mapping. Urban height was also shown to improve the performance of population disaggregation due to its compensation of building volume. To sum up, this proposed method showed great potential to disaggregate fine-resolution population and other urban socio-economic attributes.
Validation of Hourly Global Horizontal Irradiance for Two Satellite-Derived Datasets in Northeast Iraq
Authors: Ameen Bikhtiyar , Balzter Heiko , Jarvis Claire , Wey Etienne , Thomas Claire , Marchand Mathilde
Published: October 2018

Several sectors need global horizontal irradiance (GHI) data for various purposes. However, the availability of a long-term time series of high quality in situ GHI measurements is limited. Therefore, several studies have tried to estimate GHI by re-analysing climate data or satellite images. Validation is essential for the later use of GHI data in the regions with a scarcity of ground-recorded data. This study contributes to previous studies that have been carried out in the past to validate HelioClim-3 version 5 (HC3v5) and the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service, using radiation service version 3 (CRSv3) data of hourly GHI from satellite-derived datasets (SDD) with nine ground stations in northeast Iraq, which have not been used previously. The validation is carried out with station data at the pixel locations and two other data points in the vicinity of each station, which is something that is rarely seen in the literature. The temporal and spatial trends of the ground data are well captured by the two SDDs. Correlation ranges from 0.94 to 0.97 in all-sky and clear-sky conditions in most cases, while for cloudy-sky conditions, it is between 0.51–0.72 and 0.82–0.89 for the clearness index. The bias is negative for most of the cases, except for three positive cases. It ranges from −7% to 4%, and −8% to 3% for the all-sky and clear-sky conditions, respectively. For cloudy-sky conditions, the bias is positive, and differs from one station to another, from 16% to 85%. The root mean square error (RMSE) ranges between 12–20% and 8–12% for all-sky and clear-sky conditions, respectively. In contrast, the RMSE range is significantly higher in cloudy-sky conditions: above 56%. The bias and RMSE for the clearness index are nearly the same as those for the GHI for all-sky conditions. The spatial variability of hourly GHI SDD differs only by 2%, depending on the station location compared to the data points around each station. The variability of two SDDs is quite similar to the ground data, based on the mean and standard deviation of hourly GHI in a month. Having station data at different timescales and the small number of stations with GHI records in the region are the main limitations of this analysis.
Wavelet-Based Correlation Identification of Scales and Locations between Landscape Patterns and Topography in Urban-Rural Profiles: Case of the Jilin City, China
Authors: Wu Qiong , Guo Fengxiang , Li Hongqing
Published: October 2018

Landscapes display overlapping sets of correlations in different regions at different spatial scales, and these correlations can be delineated by pattern analysis. This study identified the correlations between landscape pattern and topography at various scales and locations in urban-rural profiles from Jilin City, China, using Pearson correlation analysis and wavelet method. Two profiles, 30 km (A) and 35 km (B) in length with 0.1-km sampling intervals, were selected. The results indicated that profile A was more sensitive to the characterization of the land use pattern as influenced by topography due to its more varied terrain, and three scales (small, medium, and large) could be defined based on the variation in the standard deviation of the wavelet coherency in profile A. Correlations between landscape metrics and elevation were similar at large scales (over 8 km), while complex correlations were discovered at other scale intervals. The medium scale of cohesion and Shannon’s diversity index was 1–8 km, while those of perimeter-area fractal dimension and edge density index were 1.5–8 km and 2–8 km, respectively. At small scales, the correlations were weak as a whole and scattered due to the micro-topography and landform elements, such as valleys and hillsides. At medium scales, the correlations were most affected by local topography, and the land use pattern was significantly correlated with topography at several locations. At large spatial scales, significant correlation existed throughout the study area due to alternating mountains and plains. In general, the strength of correlation between landscape metrics and topography increased gradually with increasing spatial scale, although this tendency had some fluctuations in several locations. Despite a complex calculating process and ecological interpretation, the wavelet method is still an effective tool to identify multi-scale characteristics in landscape ecology.
Ni-CNT Chemical Sensor for SF6 Decomposition Components Detection: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Gui Yingang , Zhang Xiaoxing , Lv Peigeng , Wang Shan , Tang Chao , Zhou Qu
Published: October 2018

SF6 decomposition components detection is a key technology to evaluate and diagnose the insulation status of SF6-insulated equipment online, especially when insulation defects-induced discharge occurs in equipment. In order to detect the type and concentration of SF6 decomposition components, a Ni-modified carbon nanotube (Ni-CNT) gas sensor has been prepared to analyze its gas sensitivity and selectivity to SF6 decomposition components based on an experimental and density functional theory (DFT) theoretical study. Experimental results show that a Ni-CNT gas sensor presents an outstanding gas sensing property according to the significant change of conductivity during the gas molecule adsorption. The conductivity increases in the following order: H2S > SOF2 > SO2 > SO2F2. The limit of detection of the Ni-CNT gas sensor reaches 1 ppm. In addition, the excellent recovery property of the Ni-CNT gas sensor makes it easy to be widely used. A DFT theoretical study was applied to analyze the influence mechanism of Ni modification on SF6 decomposition components detection. In summary, the Ni-CNT gas sensor prepared in this study can be an effective way to evaluate and diagnose the insulation status of SF6-insulated equipment online.
Error Resilient Coding Techniques for Video Delivery over Vehicular Networks
Authors: Piñol Pablo , Martinez-Rach Miguel , Garrido Pablo , Lopez-Granado Otoniel , Malumbres Manuel P.
Published: October 2018

Nowadays, more and more vehicles are equipped with communication capabilities, not only providing connectivity with onboard devices, but also with off-board communication infrastructures. From road safety (i.e., multimedia e-call) to infotainment (i.e., video on demand services), there are a lot of applications and services that may be deployed in vehicular networks, where video streaming is the key factor. As it is well known, these networks suffer from high interference levels and low available network resources, and it is a great challenge to deploy video delivery applications which provide good quality video services. We focus our work on supplying error resilience capabilities to video streams in order to fight against the high packet loss rates found in vehicular networks. So, we propose the combination of source coding and channel coding techniques. The former ones are applied in the video encoding process by means of intra-refresh coding modes and tile-based frame partitioning techniques. The latter one is based on the use of forward error correction mechanisms in order to recover as many lost packets as possible. We have carried out an extensive evaluation process to measure the error resilience capabilities of both approaches in both (a) a simple packet error probabilistic model, and (b) a realistic vehicular network simulation framework. Results show that forward error correction mechanisms are mandatory to guarantee video delivery with an acceptable quality level , and we highly recommend the use of the proposed mechanisms to increase even more the final video quality.
An Autonomous Solar-Powered Marine Robotic Observatory for Permanent Monitoring of Large Areas of Shallow Water
Authors: González-Reolid I. , Molina-Molina J. Carlos , Guerrero-González A. , Ortiz F. J. , Alonso D.
Published: October 2018

Apart from their ecological value, the world’s oceans are among the planet’s most valuable resources, a rich source of food and wealth and in urgent need of protection. This article describes BUSCAMOS-RobObs, a robot-based observatory, consisting of an autonomous solar-powered marine robot with specialized sensing systems designed to carry out long-term observation missions in the inland sea of the Mar Menor in southeastern Spain. This highly specialised device is unique because it has the capacity to anchor itself to the seabed and become a “buoy”, either to take measurements at specific points or to recharge its batteries. It thus avoids drifting and possible accidents in the buoy mode, especially near the coast, and resumes monitoring tasks when the required energy levels are reached. The robot is equipped with a broad range of sensors, including side scan sonar, sub-bottom sonar, laser systems, ultrasound sonar, depth meters, a multi-parametric probe and a GPS, which can collect georeferenced oceanic data. Although various types of autonomous vehicles have been described in the literature, they all have limited autonomy (even in the long term) as regards operational time and covering the seabed. The article describes a permanent monitoring mission in the Mar Menor, with a combination of solar energy and a decision-making strategy as regards the optimum route to be followed. The energy and mission simulation results, as well as an account of actual monitoring missions are also included.
Assistance Robotics and Biosensors
Authors: Torres Fernando , Puente Santiago T. , Úbeda Andrés
Published: October 2018

This Special Issue is focused on breakthrough developments in the field of biosensors and current scientific progress in biomedical signal processing. The papers address innovative solutions in assistance robotics based on bioelectrical signals, including: Affordable biosensor technology, affordable assistive-robotics devices, new techniques in myoelectric control and advances in brain–machine interfacing.
Simultaneous Vector Bend and Temperature Sensing Based on a Polymer and Silica Optical Fibre Grating Pair
Authors: Yan Binbin , Liu Guoqiang , He Jun , Luo Yanhua , Yang Liwei , Qi Haifeng , Sang Xinzhu , Wang Kuiru , Yu Chongxiu , Yuan Jinhui , Peng Gang-Ding
Published: October 2018

The bending response of polymer optical fibre Bragg grating (POFBG) and silica optical fibre Bragg grating (SOFBG) mounted on a brass beam have been systematically studied and compared. The results indicate that POFBG has higher (almost twice as much) bend sensitivity than SOFBG. Based on the difference between the bend and temperature sensitivity of POFBG and SOFBG, a new method of measuring vector bend and temperature simultaneously was proposed by using a hybrid sensor head with series connection of one POFBG and one SOFBG with different Bragg wavelengths. It provides high sensitivity and resolution for sensing bend and temperature changes simultaneously and independently. The proposed sensor can find some applications in the fields where high sensitivity for both bend and temperature measurements are required.
A Generational Approach to Somatic Cultures: Modes of Attention to the Young Body in Contemporary Portuguese Society
Authors: Ferreira Vitor Sérgio
Published: October 2018

The aims of this article are to identify, describe, and sociologically understand the different somatic cultures in contemporary Portuguese society—i.e., the distinct ways in which different generations have thought about, used and lived the body from the time of the Estado Novo (the New State, which was the regime that governed Portugal from 1933 to 1974) until the present day. Beginning with the hypothesis that there are different, historically institutionalized, somatic modes of attention to the “young body”, the author uses the most relevant institutions of the socialization of the body as analytical dimensions and investigates their main incorporation strategies and models of corporality. This hypothesis is informed by different generational conditions that change people’s uses of their body, their experiences of living in it, and their thoughts on the matter. Using these analytical dimensions, the article presents a typology that identifies, describes, and comprehends the three somatic cultures in the recent history of Portuguese society: the culture of physical invigoration that forms part of the legacy of the New State; the culture of physical rejuvenation inherited from youth cultures of the 1960s and 70s, along with the growth of body design industries in the 1980s; and the culture of physical perfection inherited from the biotech culture in the 1990s, accompanied by the radicalization of the body design industry. This approach entails the discussion and reinterpretation of a corpus of historical literature, presenting research data on the body in a defined time period (1930 to date) and space (Portugal), analyzed from an embodied perspective of generational change.
Smallholders’ Preferences for Improved Quinoa Varieties in the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Gamboa Cindybell , Van den Broeck Goedele , Maertens Miet
Published: October 2018

Due to an increase in international demand, quinoa production has boomed tremendously in the Andes since the early 2010s. This has led to significant investments into developing improved varieties for large-scale agribusinesses, but breeding programs are not tailored to the needs of smallholders. In this paper, we study farmers’ preferences and willingness to pay for improved quinoa varieties in the Junín region in Peru. We use data from a choice experiment among 458 smallholders and estimate generalized multinomial logit models to control for preference and scale heterogeneity. We find that farmers generally prefer improved varieties over traditional varieties, with mildew-resistance as the most important crop trait. In general, farmers prefer varieties that are characterized by larger grain sizes, higher yield levels, lower levels of saponin, and a reduced maturation period. Yet, food-insecure farmers are found to be indifferent to early maturity and a larger grain size, which can be explained by a lower degree of commercialization among these farmers. Our results imply that developing mildew-tolerant and higher-yielding varieties with a medium to low saponin content is a priority if investments in quinoa technologies are to benefit small-scale and food insecure farmers in the Andean highlands of Peru.
Industry 4.0 and Sustainability Implications: A Scenario-Based Analysis of the Impacts and Challenges
Authors: Bonilla Silvia H. , Silva Helton R. O. , Terra da Silva Marcia , Franco Gonçalves Rodrigo , Sacomano José B.
Published: October 2018

The new evolution of the production and industrial process called Industry 4.0, and its related technologies such as the Internet of Things, big data analytics, and cyber–physical systems, among others, still have an unknown potential impact on sustainability and the environment. In this paper, we conduct a literature-based analysis to discuss the sustainability impact and challenges of Industry 4.0 from four different scenarios: deployment, operation and technologies, integration and compliance with the sustainable development goals, and long-run scenarios. From these scenarios, our analysis resulted in positive or negative impacts related to the basic production inputs and outputs flows: raw material, energy and information consumption and product and waste disposal. As the main results, we identified both positive and negative expected impacts, with some predominance of positives that can be considered positive secondary effects derived from Industry 4.0 activities. However, only through integrating Industry 4.0 with the sustainable development goals in an eco-innovation platform, can it really ensure environmental performance. It is expected that this work can contribute to helping stakeholders, practitioners and governments to advance solutions to deal with the outcomes emerging through the massive adoption of those technologies, as well as supporting the expected positive impacts through policies and financial initiatives.
Changes in the Ecological Footprint of Rural Populations in the Taihang Mountains, China
Authors: Xiao Xingyuan , Hu Minyue , Tan Minghong , Li Xiubin , Li Wei
Published: October 2018

Due to massive rural–urban migration, population size and age structure are subject to significant changes in the mountainous areas of China. This can influence the ecological pressure of the mountainous areas correspondingly. In particular, large numbers of young laborers migrate from rural areas, which may greatly decrease the intensity of local human activities. However, it is still unclear how population changes (size and age structure) affect environmental changes and how to measure these changes. We analyzed changes in the ecological footprint (EF) in the Taihang Mountain region in northern China using field survey data. From 2000 to 2016, the population size in the study area decreased by 9.7%, while the EF declined by 32.1%. The EF per capita (EF_per) decreased more rapidly with decreasing elevation, which indicated that at lower elevations, households were less dependent on local resources. For households with more elderly people, the EF_per was considerably lower than for other households in 2000. However, in 2016, this was not the case, and the households with a share of the working-age population between 50–75% had the lowest EF_per. Our study is of great practical significance for reasonably guiding population migration and rural sustainable development.
On Technology in Innovation Systems and Innovation-Ecosystem Perspectives: A Cross-Linking Analysis
Authors: Amitrano Cristina Caterina , Tregua Marco , Russo Spena Tiziana , Bifulco Francesco
Published: October 2018

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the role of technology as it has been framed within Innovation System (IS) and Innovation Ecosystem (IE) literature research streams. The methodological choice is a systemic review that allows to focus on theoretical proposals by scholars and the identification of the commonalities regarding the pivotal role of technology and the differences in describing innovation-based mechanisms in both literatures. Results show that the key elements are the overall idea of technology as pivotal in driving innovation, the actors affecting technology and contributing to reach innovation-based goals, and the decisional process emerging because of technology. Furthermore, emerging features on evolution through time and knowledge-transforming mechanisms favored by technology in IE show an opportunity to learn in-depth from specific insights generated in both the literatures and to delineate a more comprehensive approach to technology related to innovation in wider interconnected contexts.
Challenges and Opportunities of a Forthcoming Strategic Assessment of the Implications of International Climate Change Mitigation Commitments for Individual Undertakings in Canada
Authors: Gibson Robert B. , Péloffy Karine , Doelle Meinhard
Published: October 2018

Canada is preparing to initiate a challenging, but potentially ground-breaking, strategic assessment on the implications of its climate change mitigation commitments for project assessments. The strategic assessment is immediately needed to provide project-level guidance for decision makers who will be required under new federal legislation to consider the extent to which each assessed project “contributes to sustainability” and “hinders or contributes to” meeting Canada’s climate commitments. However, Canada, like many other countries, has not yet translated its Paris Agreement climate commitments into an adequate suite of specific policies, pathways, budgets, and other directives for compliance. Consequently, the climate commitments’ strategic assessment will need to play a fully strategic role—in policy development as well as policy interpretation and elaboration for assessment purposes. This paper outlines the key considerations and required steps for a strategic assessment that fills the policy gap between Paris and projects, and develops guidance centred on a suite of tests for evaluating proposed major projects that may have important effects on Canada’s prospects for meeting its climate commitments.
Synthesis of Self-Gravity Settling Faceted-Anatase TiO2 with Dominant {010} Facets for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Acetaminophen and Study of the Type of Generated Oxygen Vacancy in Faceted-TiO2
Authors: Katal Reza , Masudy Panah Saeid , Zarinejad Mehrdad , Salehi Mojtaba , Jiangyong Hu
Published: October 2018

In this study, faceted TiO2, predominately exposed with {010} facets (T-{010}), was synthesized with a two-step hydrothermal reaction and used for the degradation of acetaminophen (ACE) in an aqueous solution. T-{010} showed considerable photocatalytic reactivity, and its easy-settling (gravity-settling, ~97% of T-{010} settled after 30 min) property demonstrated acceptable reusability. A solid-state chemical reduction approach (NaBH4) at a mild temperature (300 °C) was used for generation of an oxygen vacancy in T-{010} and P25 (commercial TiO2). The oxygen vacancy concentrations of the samples were investigated by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). It was also found that NaBH4 reduction induced the generation of both surface and subsurface Ti3+ on colored P25, but only surface Ti3+ species were formed on colored T-{010}. The prepared colored TiO2 samples were successfully used for photocatalytic degradation of ACE in an aqueous solution under visible light illumination.
Contrasting Responses among Aquatic Organism Groups to Changes in Geomorphic Complexity Along a Gradient of Stream Habitat Restoration: Implications for Restoration Planning and Assessment
Authors: Hasselquist Eliza Maher , Polvi Lina E. , Kahlert Maria , Nilsson Christer , Sandberg Lisa , McKie Brendan G.
Published: October 2018

Many stream restoration projects aim to increase geomorphic complexity, assuming that this increases habitat heterogeneity and, thus, biodiversity. However, empirical data supporting these linkages remain scant. Previous assessments of stream restoration suffer from incomplete quantification of habitat complexity, or a narrow focus on only one organism group and/or one restoration measure, limiting learning. Based on a comprehensive quantification of geomorphic complexity in 20 stream reaches in northern Sweden, ranging from streams channelized for timber floating to restored and reference reaches, we investigated responses of macroinvertebrates, diatoms, and macrophytes to multiple geomorphic metrics. Sediment size heterogeneity, which was generally improved in restored sites, favored macroinvertebrate and diatom diversity and macroinvertebrate abundance. In contrast, macrophyte diversity responded to increased variation along the longitudinal stream profile (e.g., step-pools), which was not consistently improved by the restoration. Our analyses highlight the value of learning across multiple restoration projects, both in identifying which aspects of restoration have succeeded, and pinpointing other measures that might be targeted during adaptive management or future restoration. Given our results, a combination of restoration measures targeting not only sediment size heterogeneity, but also features such as step-pools and instream wood, is most likely to benefit benthic biota in streams.
Structure cristalline de la bromoacétamide
Authors: Dejace Jules
Published: October 2018

La structure cristalline de la bromoacétamide a été déterminée par les méthodes de Fourier-Bragg et de Fourier-différence. La molécule est approximativement plane. Les distances interatomiques sont : C-Br = 1,93 kX, C-C = 1,53 kX, C-O = 1,26 kX, C-N = 1,32 kX. Les molécules sont dimérisées par ponts hydrogène et les dimères forment des chaînes infinies parallèles à l'axe b du réseau monoclinique.
Étude de la diffusion des rayons X par un monocristal de lithium. I. Théorie
Authors: Champier Georges
Published: October 2018

On rappelle les résultats de la théorie de la dynamique du réseau cristallin et de la théorie de la diffusion des rayons X.

Supposant, dans le cas particulier du réseau cubique centré, que les forces entre premiers et seconds voisins sont quelconques et qu'elles sont centrales entre troisièmes voisins, on introduit cinq coefficients de force pour décrire les propriétés élastiques du réseau. Les fréquences des ondes d'agitation thermique s'expriment simplement en fonction de ces cinq coefficients. Il en est de même des constantes élastiques.

La mesure du flux de rayons X diffusé par un monocristal permet de calculer les fréquences des ondes élastiques qui contribuent à la diffusion et d'en déduire les valeurs des coefficients de force interatomiques.

On précise dans quelles conditions le flux diffusé par un monocristal de lithium a été mesuré et l'on indique quels sont les facteurs qui les ont déterminées : intensité du flux, divergence du faisceau, zone à explorer dans le réseau réciproque et limitations résultant de la construction du spectromètre.

On décrit le dispositif qui a permis d'obtenir des monocristaux de lithium ayant une épaisseur de 3 mm et une surface de plusieurs centimètres carrés.

On indiquera dans un prochain bulletin les résultats obtenus au cours de cette étude.
Ianthinite et wyartite
Authors: Guillemin Claude , Protas Jean
Published: October 2018

L'étude de la ianthinite, hydrate uranoso-uranique de formule UO₂.5 UO₃. 10,56 H₂O a permis de montrer l'existence d'une autre espèce : la wyartite, carbonate uranoso-uranique hydraté de calcium. Orthorhombique, a = 11,25 ; b = 7,08 ; c = 20,98 Â ; Z = 2, de formule UO₂.6 UO₃.2 CO₃.3 CaO. 12-14 H₂O.

Ce minéral a été trouvé sur de l'uraninite à Shinkolobwé (Katanga) .
Détermination précise de la troisième coordonnée des atomes dans une maille cristalline dans le cas où les deux premières sont connues
Authors: Tsoucaris Georges
Published: October 2018

Nous avons effectué une modification du programme d'affinement des structures par la méthode des moindres carrés sur la calculatrice IBM 704, qui permet de commencer raffinement à partir des coordonnées z éloignées des coordonnées exactes de plus de I Â. Cette modification a été appliquée avec succès aux structures du bichlorhydrate de 3-picolylamine et du bichlorhydrate d'histamine.
Un nouveau gisement de narsarsukite (Identification d'un minéral dénommé provisoirement « gouréite » par A. Lacroix en 1934)
Authors: Jérémine Elisabeth , Christophe Michel-Lévy Mireille
Published: October 2018

Présence de narsarsukite Na₂(Ti, Fe)Si₄O₁₀(O, OH, F) dans un micro-granite hyperalcalin de la région de Gouré (Soudan) (gouréite). Historique et comparaison avec les autres gisements connus de ce minéral. Le nom de gouréite est à rejeter.
Étude minéralogique de quelques argiles d'altération du Massif Armoricain
Authors: Estéoule-Choux Janine
Published: October 2018

Dans le Massif Armoricain, les formations résiduelles résultant de l'évolution pédologique de divers terrains sédimentaires (du Briovérien au Carbonifère) et de roches endogènes et métamorphiques sont essentiellement formées de kaolinite, quelle que soit la constitution originelle des roches-mères. L'illite et la montmorillonite n'ont été trouvées que très rarement, soit associées à la kaolinite, soit en quantité peu importante. La désagrégation des silicates réalisée sous les climats anciens, s'est poursuivie jusqu'à l'uniformisation à peu près complète des faciès d'altération.
Structure atomique d'une phase cristalline du gallium, instable à la pression atmosphérique
Authors: Curien Hubert , Rimsky Alexandre , Defrain André
Published: October 2018

A partir du liquide surfondu, on peut faire cristalliser à — 16,3° C une phase du gallium, instable à pression ordinaire. Pour faire l'étude cristallographique de cette phase instable on a utilisé un dispositif qui permet la réalisation simultanée d'un diagramme de cristal tournant et d'un diagramme de Weissenberg. L'orientation du cristal étant quelconque, l'ensemble des deux diagrammes permet de reconstituer le réseau réciproque.

La phase instable du gallium est orthorhombique (a = 2,90 ; 6 = 8, 13 ; c = 3,17 Â). Groupe D17/20, Z = 4. Les atomes forment des chaînes en zigzag, la distance Ga-Ga dans la chaîne étant 2,68 A.
Analyse spectrochimique des minéraux en atmosphère contrôlée
Authors: Gabis Victor
Published: October 2018

Intérêt de l'atmosphère contrôlée dans l'analyse des éléments par spectrographie d'émission. Description d'une nouvelle enceinte pour prise de spectres en atmosphère contrôlée.