bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnesium Potassium Phosphate Compound for Immobilization of Radioactive Waste Containing Actinide and Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Vinokurov Sergey E. , Kulikova Svetlana A. , Myasoedov Boris F.
Published: June 2018

The problem of effective immobilization of liquid radioactive waste (LRW) is key to the successful development of nuclear energy. The possibility of using the magnesium potassium phosphate (MKP) compound for LRW immobilization on the example of nitric acid solutions containing actinides and rare earth elements (REE), including high level waste (HLW) surrogate solution, is considered in the research work. Under the study of phase composition and structure of the MKP compounds that is obtained by the XRD and SEM methods, it was established that the compounds are composed of crystalline phases—analogues of natural phosphate minerals (struvite, metaankoleite). The hydrolytic stability of the compounds was determined according to the semi-dynamic test GOST R 52126-2003. Low leaching rates of radionuclides from the compound are established, including a differential leaching rate of 239Pu and 241Am—3.5 × 10−7 and 5.3 × 10−7 g/(cm2∙day). As a result of the research work, it was concluded that the MKP compound is promising for LRW immobilization and can become an alternative material combining the advantages of easy implementation of the technology, like cementation and the high physical and chemical stability corresponding to a glass-like compound.
Ballistic Performance of Nanostructured Metals Toughened by Elliptical Coarse-Grained Inclusions: A Finite Element Study with Failure Analysis
Authors: Guo Xiang , Ouyang Qidong , Sun Yubo , Weng George J.
Published: June 2018

Bimodal nanostructured (NS) metals, in which the nano-grains or ultrafine grains serve as matrix phase while the coarse grains serve as toughening phase, can synergize the overall strength and ductility to achieve excellent bullet-proof performance. Because of the extrusion process in the fabrication, the coarse-grained (CG) inclusions are elongated in the extrusion direction and elliptical CG inclusions with different aspect ratios form. The shape, distribution, and volume fraction of these elliptical CG inclusions can all have significant influence on the overall ballistic performance. In this study, the strain gradient plasticity model together with the Johnson–Cook failure criterion is employed to investigate the ballistic performance of the bimodal NS Cu with elliptical CG inclusions. Our results show that the ballistic performance can be improved by increasing the aspect ratio of the elliptical CG inclusions. Furthermore, the staggered distribution of the elliptical CG inclusions will decrease the overall ability of the material to resist failure, but it will improve its overall ability to resist deformation. The larger stagger degree of elliptical CG inclusions can weaken their shape effects on the limit displacement.
A Novel Approach to Decision-Making with Pythagorean Fuzzy Information
Authors: Naz Sumera , Ashraf Samina , Akram Muhammad
Published: June 2018

A Pythagorean fuzzy set (PFS) is a powerful tool for depicting fuzziness and uncertainty. This model is more flexible and practical as compared to an intuitionistic fuzzy model. This paper proposes a new graph, called Pythagorean fuzzy graph (PFG). We investigate some properties of our proposed graphs. We determine the degree and total degree of a vertex of PFGs. Furthermore, we present the concept of Pythagorean fuzzy preference relations (PFPRs). In particular, we solve decision-making problems, including evaluation of hospitals, partner selection in supply chain management, and electronic learning main factors evaluation by using PFGs.
Several Results of Fractional Differential and Integral Equations in Distribution
Authors: Li Chenkuan , Li Changpin , Clarkson Kyle
Published: June 2018

This paper is to study certain types of fractional differential and integral equations, such as θ ( x − x 0 ) g ( x ) = 1 Γ ( α ) ∫ 0 x ( x − ζ ) α − 1 f ( ζ ) d ζ , y ( x ) + ∫ 0 x y ( τ ) x − τ d τ = x + − 2 + δ ( x ) , and x + k ∫ 0 x y ( τ ) ( x − τ ) α − 1 d τ = δ ( m ) ( x ) in the distributional sense by Babenko’s approach and fractional calculus. Applying convolutions and products of distributions in the Schwartz sense, we obtain generalized solutions for integral and differential equations of fractional order by using the Mittag-Leffler function, which cannot be achieved in the classical sense including numerical analysis methods, or by the Laplace transform.
Gray Codes Generation Algorithm and Theoretical Evaluation of Random Walks in N-Cubes
Authors: Contassot-Vivier Sylvain , Couchot Jean-François , Héam Pierre-Cyrille
Published: June 2018

In previous works, some of the authors have proposed a canonical form of Gray Codes (GCs) in N-cubes (hypercubes of dimension N). This form allowed them to draw an algorithm that theoretically provides exactly all the GCs for a given dimension N. In another work, we first have shown that any of these GC can be used to build the transition function of a Pseudorandom Number Generator (PRNG). Also, we have found a theoretical quadratic upper bound of the mixing time, i.e., the number of iterations that are required to provide a PRNG whose output is uniform. This article, extends these two previous works both practically and theoretically. On the one hand, another algorithm for generating GCs is proposed that provides an efficient generation of subsets of the entire set of GCs related to a given dimension N. This offers a large choice of GC to be used in the construction of Choatic Iterations based PRNGs (CI-PRNGs), leading to a large class of possible PRNGs. On the other hand, the mixing time has been theoretically shown to be in Nlog(N), which was anticipated in the previous article, but not proven.
Alzheimer’s disease: a molecular mechanism, new hypotheses, and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Plečkaitytė Milda
Published: June 2018

Human diseases involving protein misfolding and aggregation have received increasing attention in recent years. Alzheimer’s disease and other diseases associated with aging are sweeping the developed countries whose populations are rapidly aging. Recent progress has improved our knowledge about molecular and cellular pathogenesis of these diseases. For more than 20 years, multiple diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases have been associated with accumulation of abnormal protein fibrils. These self-assembling fibrils, referred as “amyloid,” have been considered the pathogenic molecules that cause cellular degeneration. Accumulation of fibrillar Aβ in plaques underlies the theory for Alzheimer’s disease. Recent experiments have provided evidence that fibrils are not the only neurotoxins. Soluble oligomers and protofibrils play a crucial role in causing cellular dysfunction and death. These oligomers, the missing links in the original amyloid cascade hypothesis, have been incorporated into an updated amyloid cascade. Despite new information gained, there is no disease-modifying treatment. New insights into disease mechanisms and new therapeutic strategies give hope for change.
Vascular access for hemodialysis: creation, functioning, and complications (Data of the Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine)
Authors: Kybartienė Sondra , Skarupskienė Inga , Žiginskienė Edita , Kuzminskis Vytautas
Published: June 2018

Background. There are no data about arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) formation, survival, and complications rate in patients with end-stage renal failure in Lithuania. Material and methods. We analyzed the data of patients (N=272) with end-stage renal failure, dialyzed at the Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine from January 1, 2000, until March 30, 2010, and identified 368 cases of AVF creation. The patients were divided into two groups: group 1 included the patients with an AVF that functioned for <15 months (n=138) and group 2 included patients with an AVF that functioned for ≥15 months (n=171). Results and conclusions. Less than half (47%) of the patients started planned hemodialysis and 51% of the patients started hemodialysis urgently. The mean time of AVF functioning was 15.43±8.67 months. Age, gender, the kidney disease, and time of AVF maturation had no influence on AVF functioning time. AVFs of the patients who started planned hemodialysis functioned longer as compared to AVFs of the patients who started hemodialysis urgently (P<0.05). Hospitalization time of the patients who started hemodialysis urgently was longer as compared that of the patients who had a matured AVF (37.63±20.55 days vs. 16.54±9.43 days). The first vascular access had better survival than repeated access. AVF survival in patients with ischemic brain vascular disease was worse than in patients without this comorbidity.
The usage of blood components in obstetrics
Authors: Adukauskienė Dalia , Veikutienė Audronė , Adukauskaitė Agnė , Veikutis Vincentas , Rimaitis Kęstutis
Published: June 2018

Major obstetric hemorrhage remains the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Even though blood transfusion may be a life-saving procedure, an inappropriate usage of blood products in obstetric emergencies especially in cases of massive bleeding is associated with increased morbidity and risk of death. Thorough knowledge of the etiology, pathophysiology, and optimal therapeutic options of major obstetric hemorrhage may help to avoid lethal outcomes. There are evidence-based data about some risks related with transfusion of blood components: acute or delayed hemolytic, febrile, allergic reactions, transfusion-related acute lung injury, negative immunomodulative effect, transmission of infectious diseases, dissemination of cancer. This is why the indications for allogeneic blood transfusion are restricted, and new safer methods are being discovered to decrease the requirement for it. Red cell alloimmunization may develop in pregnancy; therefore, all pregnant women should pass screening for irregular antibodies. Antierythrocytic irregular antibodies may occur due to previous pregnancies or allogeneic red blood cell transfusions, and it is important for blood cross-matching in the future. Under certain circumstances, such as complicated maternal history, severe coagulation abnormalities, severe anemia, the preparation of cross-matched blood is necessary. There is evidence of very significant variation in the use of blood products (red cells, platelets, fresh frozen plasma, or cryoprecipitate) among clinicians in various medical institutions, and sometimes indications for transfusion are not correctly motivated. The transfusion of each single blood product must be performed only in case of evaluation of expected effect. The need for blood products and for their combination is necessary to estimate for each patient individually in case of obstetric emergencies either. Indications for transfusion of blood components in obstetrics are presented in order to improve the skills of doctors and to optimize therapeutic options in obstetric emergencies.
Ethical dilemmas concerning decision-making within health care leadership: a systematic literature review
Authors: Žydžiūnaitė Vilma , Suominen Tarja , Åstedt-Kurki Päivi , Lepaitė Daiva
Published: June 2018

The objective was to describe the research methods and research focuses on ethical dilemmas concerning decision-making within health care leadership. Material and methods. The search was conducted on Medline and PubMed databases (1998–2008). The systematic review included 21 selected articles. Results. The ethical dilemmas concerning decision-making within health care leadership are related to three levels: institutional (particular organization), political and local interface (local governmental structure), and national (professional expertise and system). The terms that are used as adequate to the term of “ethical dilemma” are the following: “continuous balancing,” “result of resource allocation,” “gap between professional obligations and possibilities,” “ethically controversial situation,” “concern about interactions,” “ethical difficulty,” “outcome of medical choices,” “concern about society access to health care resources,” “ethically difficult/ challenging situation,” “(the consequence of) ethical concern/ethical issue.” In qualitative studies, a semi-structured interview and qualitative content analysis are the most commonly applied methods; in quantitative studies, questionnaire surveys are employed. In the research literature, there is a lack of specification according to professional qualification of health care professionals concerning ethical dilemmas by decision-making within health care management/administration. Conclusions. The research on ethical dilemmas in health care leadership, management, and administration should integrate data about levels at which ethical dilemmas occur and investigate ethical dilemmas as complex phenomena because those are attached to decision-making and specific nuances of health care management/administration. In this article, the presented scientific problem requires extensive scientific discussions and research on ethical dilemmas concerning decision-making within health care leadership at various levels.
Performance Analysis of Enhanced 3D Printed Polymer Molds for Metal Injection Molding Process
Authors: Altaf Khurram , Qayyum Junaid A. , Rani A. Majdi A. , Ahmad Faiz , Megat-Yusoff Puteri S. M. , Baharom Masri , Aziz A. Rashid A. , Jahanzaib Mirza , German Randall M.
Published: June 2018

Conventionally, molds for metal injection molding (MIM) process are fabricated using metallic materials using conventional machining processes. Machined metal molds are resilient and therefore could be suitable for mass production of MIM parts. However, with the process of mass production leading to permanent hard tooling, the design is subjected to rigorous testing and iteration before finalization. During design analysis and the iteration process, the demand for MIM parts (part demand) is at low-volume. Therefore, machined metal molds could be costly and time consuming for low volume and customized end-use products. 3D printed molds could be a suitable choice for MIM production for such applications. The present study compares the performance of Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) 3D printing (3DP) process made polymer molds with an aluminum mold for potential use in MIM process. It was observed that 3DP molds could successfully be used for a limited number of MIM cycles.
Enhancement of Strength and Hot Workability of AZX312 Magnesium Alloy by Disintegrated Melt Deposition (DMD) Processing in Contrast to Permanent Mold Casting
Authors: Rao Kamineni Pitcheswara , Suresh Kalidass , Prasad Yellapregada Venkata Rama Krishna , Hort Norbert , Gupta Manoj
Published: June 2018

AZX312 (AZ31-2Ca) magnesium alloy, with starting conditions of as-cast (AC), cast-homogenized (CH), and disintegrated melt deposition (DMD), is examined in terms of its compressive strength and hot working behavior to establish the relative merits and limitations of these processing routes. Processing maps are developed in the temperature range of 300–500 °C and strain rate range of 0.0003–10 s−1, and mechanisms of hot deformation are established based on microstructures, tensile ductility, and activation parameters. The alloy in AC and CH conditions has a large grain size with intermetallic phases at the grain boundaries and in the matrix. In DMD processed alloy, the grain size is very small and the phases are refined and distributed uniformly. The compressive strength is significantly improved by DMD processing, which is attributed to the grain refinement. The processing maps for AC and CH conditions are similar, exhibiting only a single workability domain, while the DMD processed alloy exhibited three domains that enhanced workability. The additional workability domain at higher strain rates is an advantage in designing forming processes that facilitates faster production, while the fine grain size produced by a finishing operation in the lower temperature domain will improve the mechanical properties of the product.
Chemical Elicitors of Antibiotic Biosynthesis in Actinomycetes
Authors: Tyurin Anton P. , Alferova Vera A. , Korshun Vladimir A.
Published: June 2018

Whole genome sequencing of actinomycetes has uncovered a new immense realm of microbial chemistry and biology. Most biosynthetic gene clusters present in genomes were found to remain “silent” under standard cultivation conditions. Some small molecules—chemical elicitors—can be used to induce the biosynthesis of antibiotics in actinobacteria and to expand the chemical diversity of secondary metabolites. Here, we outline a brief account of the basic principles of the search for regulators of this type and their application.
In Situ Monitoring of the Effect of Ultrasound on the Sulfhydryl Groups and Disulfide Bonds of Wheat Gluten
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Li Yinli , Li Suyun , Zhang Hua , Ma Haile
Published: June 2018

Ultrasound treatment can improve enzymolysis efficiency by changing the amounts of sulfhydryl groups (SH) and disulfide bonds (SS) in protein. This paper proposes an in-situ and real-time monitoring method for SH and SS during ultrasound application processes using a miniature near-infrared (NIR) optical fiber spectrometer and a chemometrics model to determine the endpoint of ultrasonic treatment. The results show that SH and SS contents fluctuated greatly with the extension of ultrasonic time. The optimal spectral intervals for SH content were 869–947, 1207–1284, 1458–1536 and 2205–2274 nm, the optimal spectral intervals of SS content were 933–992, 1388–1446, 2091–2148 and 2217–2274 nm. According to the optimal spectral intervals, the synergy interval partial least squares (Si-PLS) and error back propagation neural network (BP-ANN) for SH, SS contents were established. The BP-ANN model was better than the Si-PLS model. The correlation coefficient of the prediction set (Rp) and the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) for the BP-ANN model of SH were 0.9113 and 0.38 μmol/g, respectively, the Rp2 and residual prediction deviation of SH were 0.8305 and 2.91, respectively. For the BP-ANN model of SS, the Rp and the RMSEP were 0.7523 and 6.56 μmol/g, respectively. The Rp2 and residual prediction deviation (RPD) of SS were 0.8305 and 2.91, respectively. However, the Rp2 and RPD of SS was 0.5660 and 1.64, respectively. This work demonstrated that the miniature NIR combined with BP-ANN algorithms has high potential for in-situ monitoring of SH during the ultrasonic treatment process, while the spectral prediction model of SS needs to be further developed.
Effect of Indolic-Amide Melatonin on Blood Cell Population: A Biophysical Gaussian Statistical Analysis
Authors: Zivieri Roberto , Borziani Fabio , Strazzanti Angela , Fragomeni Angela , Pacini Nicola
Published: June 2018

The problem of the correlation of indolic molecules with special regard to melatonin and immune processes has been widely investigated. However, there are only few studies focusing on circadian variation of peripheral blood leukocytes. The purpose of this study is thus to understand the influence of MLT on leukocyte populations and its correlation with leukocyte distribution. This is accomplished by administrating placebo and melatonin to different groups of individuals and by performing a biophysical Gaussian analysis on the number of leukocytes by means of a comparison of their p.m. vs. a.m. variations under the effect of placebo and of melatonin and via a comparison in the morning between leukocytes population of untreated group and MLT group. It is shown that: (a) melatonin has the effect of narrowing the normal distribution concentrating most of the individuals towards the mean value of the observed variation of leukocytes population and (b) the individuals who have not received either placebo or supplement have a leukocyte population that follows a normal distribution. These results confirm the crucial role played by melatonin, as the most representative of indolic amide in biological systems, in the circadian peripheral variations of leukocyte numbers because counts of white blood cells are essential in medical urgency and differential diagnosis situations. Hence, further studies are suggested to account for these physiological variations and for the evaluation of the full involvement of the action of MLT on leukocytes distribution.
Biodistribution and Toxicity of Micellar Platinum Nanoparticles in Mice via Intravenous Administration
Authors: Brown Anna L. , Kai Marc P. , DuRoss Allison N. , Sahay Gaurav , Sun Conroy
Published: June 2018

Platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) have shown promise as diagnostic and therapeutic agents due to their unique physiochemical properties. However, critical parameters, such as toxicity and accumulation at both desired and other tissues, remain a significant concern in the clinical translation of these nanomaterials. Here, we examine the cytotoxicity, biodistribution, and effect on clearance organ function of an intravenously administered polyethylene glycol (PEG) -ylated PtNP construct. We synthesized hydrophobic PtNPs and assembled them into aqueous micelles with the lipid-polymer conjugate 1,2-distearoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine (DSPE)-PEG (PtNP: DSPE-PEG, ~70 nm). This construct was well tolerated in mice receiving up to 15 mg platinum per kg body weight with no observed loss in weight, plasma chemistry within normal healthy ranges, and normal histopathology of organs after three weeks. Platinum quantification studies (inductively-coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS)) were also performed to assess biodistribution of PtNPs. The findings of this study are consistent with the in vivo accumulation of metal nanomaterials and further highlight the need to address clearance when designing nanomaterials for medical applications.
Functional Interplay between Small Non-Coding RNAs and RNA Modification in the Brain
Authors: Leighton Laura J. , Bredy Timothy W.
Published: June 2018

Small non-coding RNAs are essential for transcription, translation and gene regulation in all cell types, but are particularly important in neurons, with known roles in neurodevelopment, neuroplasticity and neurological disease. Many small non-coding RNAs are directly involved in the post-transcriptional modification of other RNA species, while others are themselves substrates for modification, or are functionally modulated by modification of their target RNAs. In this review, we explore the known and potential functions of several distinct classes of small non-coding RNAs in the mammalian brain, focusing on the newly recognised interplay between the epitranscriptome and the activity of small RNAs. We discuss the potential for this relationship to influence the spatial and temporal dynamics of gene activation in the brain, and predict that further research in the field of epitranscriptomics will identify interactions between small RNAs and RNA modifications which are essential for higher order brain functions such as learning and memory.
Hepatoprotective Effects of Insect Extracts in an Animal Model of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Im A-Rang , Yang Won-Kyung , Park Yang-Chun , Kim Seung Hyung , Chae Sungwook
Published: June 2018

Insects represent the largest and most diverse group of organisms on earth and are potential food and drug resources. Recently, we have demonstrated that a Forsythia viridissima extract prevented free fatty acid-induced lipid accumulation in an in vitro cellular nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the hepatoprotective effects of extracts of the insects Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis Kolbe, 1886 (PB), Oxya chinensis sinuosa Mishchenko, 1951 (OC), and Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer, 1773 (GB) in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD animal model, as well as to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. The effects of the supplementation with PB, OC, and GB extracts were evaluated histopathologically and histochemically. PB, OC, and GB extract supplementation inhibited the HFD-induced increase in body weight and body fat mass and ameliorated other adverse changes, resulting in decreased liver function parameters, lower serum triglyceride and cholesterol levels, and increased serum adiponectin levels. The expression of hepatic genes involved in lipid droplet accumulation and in fatty acid uptake also decreased upon treatment of HFD-fed mice with the extracts. These results provide evidence of the protective effects of the PB, OC, and GB extracts against HFD-induced fatty liver disease in an animal model.
Lightly Cooked Broccoli Is as Effective as Raw Broccoli in Mitigating Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice
Authors: Wang Yanling , Jeffery Elizabeth H. , Miller Michael J. , Wallig Matthew A. , Wu Yuanfeng
Published: June 2018

Dietary broccoli is anti-inflammatory. Past studies have typically investigated raw broccoli, even though most consumers prefer cooked broccoli, where the plant myrosinase is inactivated by heat, resulting in failure of formation of the anti-inflammatory bioactive compound sulforaphane (SF). This study compareed efficacy of lightly cooked broccoli (CB) containing greatly diminished myrosinase activity, with raw broccoli (RB), in mitigating colitis in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-treated mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were fed for two weeks on a 10% RB, 10% CB or control diet, all based on the AIN-93M diet. Half (n = 9) of each group received drinking water, half received 2.5% DSS in water for one week, starting from Day 7 of the diet. Even with far less plant myrosinase activity, CB was essentially as effective as RB in lessening damage by DSS, evidenced by decreased disease activity index, attenuated colon length shrinkage, less endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) leakage into blood, and less severe colon lesions as assessed by histopathology. mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines indicated that broccoli anti-inflammatory action may be through inhibition of the IL-6 trans-signaling pathway, as evidenced by reversal of the DSS-increased expression of IL-6, CCR2 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 (VCAM-1).
TRPM Family Channels in Cancer
Authors: Hantute-Ghesquier Aline , Haustrate Aurélien , Prevarskaya Natalia , Lehen’kyi V’yacheslav
Published: June 2018

Members of the TRPM (“Melastatin”) family fall into the subclass of the TRP channels having varying permeability to Ca2+ and Mg2+, with three members of the TRPM family being chanzymes, which contain C-terminal enzyme domains. The role of different TRPM members has been shown in various cancers such as prostate cancer for mostly TRPM8 and TRPM2, breast cancer for mostly TRPM2 and TRPM7, and pancreatic cancer for TRPM2/7/8 channels. The role of TRPM5 channels has been shown in lung cancer, TRPM1 in melanoma, and TRPM4 channel in prostate cancer as well. Thus, the TRPM family of channels may represent an appealing target for the anticancer therapy.
Skull Bone Regeneration Using Chitosan–Siloxane Porous Hybrids—Long-Term Implantation
Authors: Shirosaki Yuki , Furuse Motomasa , Asano Takuji , Kinoshita Yoshihiko , Kuroiwa Toshihiko
Published: June 2018

Burr holes in craniotomy are not self-repairing bone defects. To regenerate new bone at the sites of these defects, a good scaffold is required. Biodegradable hybrids including silica or siloxane networks have been investigated as bone tissue scaffolds. This study examined skull bone regeneration using chitosan-siloxane hybrids after long-term implantation (two and three years). After implantation of the hybrids, the surrounding cells migrated and formed fibrous tissues and blood vessels. Then, bone formation occurred from the surrounding blood vessels. Addition of calcium ions and coating with hydroxyapatite improved bone regeneration. Finally, the regenerated tissue area became smaller than the initial hole, and some areas changed to completed bone tissues.
Selective and Efficient Arsenic Recovery from Water through Quaternary Amino-Functionalized Silica
Authors: Valdés Oscar , Marican Adolfo , Mirabal-Gallardo Yaneris , Santos Leonardo S.
Published: June 2018

The free-radical graft polymerization of acryloxyethyl-trimethylammonium chloride onto commercial silica particles was studied experimentally for extraction of arsenic ions from water. Two steps were used to graft acryloxyethyl-trimethylammonium chloride (Q) onto the surface of nanosilica: anchoring vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMSO) onto the surface of silica to modify it with double bonds and then grafting Q onto the surface of silica with potassium persulfate as an initiator. The products were characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), 13C, 29Si nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The results showed that it is easy to graft Q onto the surface of silica under radical polimerization. The morphology analysis of silica and modified silica indicated that the silica decreased the size scale after modification. Q/VTMSO-SiO2 was tested for its ability to remove arsenic from drinking water. The results show that the new silica hybrid particles efficiently remove all arsenate ions. In addition, Q/VTMSO-SiO2 showed better sorption capacities for other metal ions (such as copper, zinc, chromium, uranium, vanadium, and lead) than a commercial water filter.
Ring-Expansion/Contraction Radical Crossover Reactions of Cyclic Alkoxyamines: A Mechanism for Ring Expansion-Controlled Radical Polymerization
Authors: Narumi Atsushi , Kobayashi Tetsuya , Yamada Masatsugu , Binder Wolfgang H. , Matsuda Keigo , Shaykoon Montaser Shaykoon Ahmed , Enomoto Kazushi , Kikuchi Moriya , Kawaguchi Seigou
Published: June 2018

Macrocyclic polymers present an important class of macromolecules, displaying the reduced radius of gyration or impossibility to entangle. A rare approach for their synthesis is the ring expansion-controlled radical “vinyl” polymerization, starting from a cyclic alkoxyamine. We here describe ring-expansion radical crossover reactions of cyclic alkoxyamines which run in parallel to chain-propagation reactions in the polymerization system. The radical crossover reactions extensively occurred at 105–125 °C, eventually producing high molecular weight polymers with multiple inherent dynamic covalent bonds (NOC bonds). A subsequent ring-contraction radical crossover reaction and the second ring-expansion radical crossover reaction are also described. The major products for the respective three stages were shown to possess cyclic morphologies by the molecular weight profiles and the residual ratios for the NOC bonds (φ in %). In particular, the high φ values ranging from ca. 80% to 98% were achieved for this cyclic alkoxyamine system. This result verifies the high availability of this system as a tool demonstrating the ring-expansion “vinyl” polymerization that allows them to produce macrocyclic polymers via a one-step vinyl polymerization.
Spirituality and Wellbeing in the Context of a Study on Suicide Prevention in North India
Authors: Wagani Rekha , Colucci Erminia
Published: June 2018

The connection between spirituality and wellbeing, including its benefits for physical and mental health, has been recognized in the Eastern cultures for a very long time, although the sharp division between science and religion has caused, for the most part, its neglect inWestern cultures until recently. Nevertheless, limited efforts have been made to explore the impact of spirituality and religion on wellbeing, including the prevention of suicide. We begin with an overview of the literature on religiousness, spirituality, and health and wellbeing. Further, we present a novel study focused on a sample of 160 Indian students from a spiritually oriented university in North India with the aim to understand how spirituality affects their lives and wellbeing and their views about suicide. Our results show that spirituality, generally, has a positive impact on participants’ wellbeing with a potential protective effect against suicidal behavior, although more research on spiritual/religious beliefs as a source of difficulties is warranted.
Field-Scale Assessment of Land and Water Use Change over the California Delta Using Remote Sensing
Authors: Anderson Martha , Gao Feng , Knipper Kyle , Hain Christopher , Dulaney Wayne , Baldocchi Dennis , Eichelmann Elke , Hemes Kyle , Yang Yun , Medellin-Azuara Josue , Kustas William
Published: June 2018

The ability to accurately monitor and anticipate changes in consumptive water use associated with changing land use and land management is critical to developing sustainable water management strategies in water-limited climatic regions. In this paper, we present an application of a remote sensing data fusion technique for developing high spatiotemporal resolution maps of evapotranspiration (ET) at scales that can be associated with changes in land use. The fusion approach combines ET map timeseries developed using an multi-scale energy balance algorithm applied to thermal data from Earth observation platforms with high spatial but low temporal resolution (e.g., Landsat) and with moderate resolution but frequent temporal coverage (e.g., MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer)). The approach is applied over the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta region in California—an area critical to both agricultural production and drinking water supply within the state that has recently experienced stresses on water resources due to a multi-year (2012–2017) extreme drought. ET “datacubes” with 30-m resolution and daily timesteps were constructed for the 2015–2016 water years and related to detailed maps of land use developed at the same spatial scale. The ET retrievals are evaluated at flux sites over multiple land covers to establish a metric of accuracy in the annual water use estimates, yielding root-mean-square errors of 1.0, 0.8, and 0.3 mm day−1 at daily, monthly, and yearly timesteps, respectively, for all sites combined. Annual ET averaged over the Delta changed only 3 mm year−1 between water years, from 822 to 819 mm year−1, translating to an area-integrated total change in consumptive water use of seven thousand acre-feet (TAF). Changes were largest in areas with recorded land-use change between water years—most significantly, fallowing of crop land presumably in response to reductions in water availability and allocations due to the drought. Moreover, the time evolution in water use associated with wetland restoration—an effort aimed at reducing subsidence and carbon emissions within the inner Delta—is assessed using a sample wetland chronosequence. Region-specific matrices of consumptive water use associated with land use changes may be an effective tool for policymakers and farmers to understand how land use conversion could impact consumptive use and demand.
A Self-Organized Reciprocal Decision Approach for Sensing Coverage with Multi-UAV Swarms
Authors: Chen Runfeng , Xu Ning , Li Jie
Published: June 2018

This paper tackles the problem of sensing coverage for multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with an approach that takes into account the reciprocal between neighboring UAVs to reduce the oscillation of their trajectories. The proposed reciprocal decision approach, which is performed in three steps, is self-organized, distributed and autonomous. First, in contrast to the traditional method modeled and optimized in configuration space, the sensing coverage problem is directly presented as an optimal reciprocal coverage velocity (ORCV) in velocity space that is concise and effective. Second, the ORCV is determined by adjusting the action velocity out of weak coverage velocity relative to neighboring UAVs to demonstrate that the ORCV supports a collision-avoiding assembly. Third, a corresponding random probability method is proposed for determining the optimal velocity in the ORCV. The results from the simulation indicate that the proposed method has a high coverage rate, rapid convergence rate and low deadweight loss. In addition, for up to 103-size UAVs, the proposed method has excellent scalability and collision-avoiding ability.
Construction of Chitosan-Zn-Based Electrochemical Biosensing Platform for Rapid and Accurate Assay of Actin
Authors: Sun Chong , Zou Ye , Wang Daoying , Geng Zhiming , Xu Weimin , Liu Fang , Cao Jinxuan
Published: June 2018

This work reports a study on the development of a sensitive immunosensor for the assay of actin, which is fabricated using sensing material chitosan-Zn nanoparticles (NPs) and anti-actin modified on glassy carbon electrode respectively. The prepared materials were characterized using transmission electron microscope (TEM), fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectra, and circular dichroism (CD) techniques. Meanwhile, the electrochemical properties were studied by linear sweep voltammetric (LSV), electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS), and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). According to the experiments, under the optimum conditions, the linear fitting equation was I (μA) = −17.31 + 78.97c (R2 = 0.9948). The linear range was from 0.0001 to 0.1 mg/mL and the detection limit (LOD, S/N = 3) was 21.52 ng/mL. The interference studies were also performed for checking the sensors’ selectivity to actin. With better properties of the chitosan-Zn NPs, the modified electrode is considered as a better candidate than Western blot or immunohistochemical method for real-time usability. The detection limit reported is the lowest till date and this method provides a new approach for quality evaluation.
Optical Tracking Data Validation and Orbit Estimation for Sparse Observations of Satellites by the OWL-Net
Authors: Choi Jin , Jo Jung Hyun , Yim Hong-Suh , Choi Eun-Jung , Cho Sungki , Park Jang-Hyun
Published: June 2018

An Optical Wide-field patroL-Network (OWL-Net) has been developed for maintaining Korean low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites’ orbital ephemeris. The OWL-Net consists of five optical tracking stations. Brightness signals of reflected sunlight of the targets were detected by a charged coupled device (CCD). A chopper system was adopted for fast astrometric data sampling, maximum 50 Hz, within a short observation time. The astrometric accuracy of the optical observation data was validated with precise orbital ephemeris such as Consolidated Prediction File (CPF) data and precise orbit determination result with onboard Global Positioning System (GPS) data from the target satellite. In the optical observation simulation of the OWL-Net for 2017, an average observation span for a single arc of 11 LEO observation targets was about 5 min, while an average optical observation separation time was 5 h. We estimated the position and velocity with an atmospheric drag coefficient of LEO observation targets using a sequential-batch orbit estimation technique after multi-arc batch orbit estimation. Post-fit residuals for the multi-arc batch orbit estimation and sequential-batch orbit estimation were analyzed for the optical measurements and reference orbit (CPF and GPS data). The post-fit residuals with reference show few tens-of-meters errors for in-track direction for multi-arc batch and sequential-batch orbit estimation results.
Dynamic Model Updating for Bridge Structures Using the Kriging Model and PSO Algorithm Ensemble with Higher Vibration Modes
Authors: Qin Shiqiang , Zhang Yazhou , Zhou Yun-Lai , Kang Juntao
Published: June 2018

This study applied the kriging model and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm for the dynamic model updating of bridge structures using the higher vibration modes under large-amplitude initial conditions. After addressing the higher mode identification theory using time-domain operational modal analysis, the kriging model is then established based on Latin hypercube sampling and regression analysis. The kriging model performs as a surrogate model for a complex finite element model in order to predict analytical responses. An objective function is established to express the relative difference between analytically predicted responses and experimentally measured ones, and the initial finite element (FE) model is hereinafter updated using the PSO algorithm. The Jalón viaduct—a concrete continuous railway bridge—is applied to verify the proposed approach. The results show that the kriging model can accurately predict the responses and reduce computational time as well.
Modeling and Identification for Vector Propulsion of an Unmanned Surface Vehicle: Three Degrees of Freedom Model and Response Model
Authors: Mu Dongdong , Wang Guofeng , Fan Yunsheng , Sun Xiaojie , Qiu Bingbing
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a complete scheme for research on the three degrees of freedom model and response model of the vector propulsion of an unmanned surface vehicle. The object of this paper is “Lanxin”, an unmanned surface vehicle (7.02 m × 2.6 m), which is equipped with a single vector propulsion device. First, the “Lanxin” unmanned surface vehicle and the related field experiments (turning test and zig-zag test) are introduced and experimental data are collected through various sensors. Then, the thrust of the vector thruster is estimated by the empirical formula method. Third, using the hypothesis and simplification, the three degrees of freedom model and the response model of USV are deduced and established, respectively. Fourth, the parameters of the models (three degrees of freedom model, response model and thruster servo model) are obtained by system identification, and we compare the simulated turning test and zig-zag test with the actual data to verify the accuracy of the identification results. Finally, the biggest advantage of this paper is that it combines theory with practice. Based on identified response model, simulation and practical course keeping experiments are carried out to further verify feasibility and correctness of modeling and identification.
Synthesis and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Novel Asymmetrical Mono-Carbonyl Analogs of Curcumin (AMACs) against Vero, HeLa, and MCF7 Cell Lines
Authors: Wiji Prasetyaningrum Pekik , Bahtiar Anton , Hayun Hayun
Published: June 2018

A series of novel asymmetrical mono-carbonyl analogs of curcumin (AMACs) were synthesized and evaluated for cytotoxic activity using BSLT and MTT assay against Vero, HeLa, and MCF7 cell lines. The structures of the synthesized compounds were confirmed by FTIR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and mass spectral data. The results of the cytotoxicity evaluation showed that the synthesized compounds exhibited moderate to very high toxic activity in BSLT (LC50 value 29.80–1704.23 µM); most of the compound exhibited cytotoxic activity against HeLa cell lines, which is comparable to the activity of cisplatin (IC50 value 40.65–95.55 µM), and most of the compound tested against MCF7 cell lines exhibited moderate to very high cytotoxic activity (IC50 value 7.86–35.88 µM). However, the selectivity index (SI) of the compounds was low (<1–1.96). Among the synthesized compounds, compound 1b was the most cytotoxic and selective against MCF7 cell lines. It could be considered for further development to obtain the more active and selective chemotherapeutic agents against breast cancer.
Cost Implication of Implementing External Facade Systems for Commercial Buildings
Authors: Tam Vivian W. Y. , Le Khoa N. , Wang J. Y.
Published: June 2018

The significance of cost effectiveness in sustainable design has heightened over the past ten years due to the need for reducing building operational expenses and improving environmental quality. This paper determines life-cycle cost over a 20-year period for eleven external facade systems from seven Australian capital cities. Factors affecting life-cycle expenditure in implementing external facade systems of commercial buildings are considered, including construction cost, space heating and cooling cost, maintenance cost and rental loss due to the thickness of external facade systems. The most cost-effective external facade system is identified for each city. Double-glazing facade is found to be the most cost-effective system in Sydney; however, masonry-veneer facade performs the best overall. This paper can provide insight for commercial design teams in designing buildings with cost-effectiveness and sustainable throughout its life-cycle and highlight the importance of a holistic cost review at design stage in ensuring client satisfaction.
Semantic Analysis of Learners’ Emotional Tendencies on Online MOOC Education
Authors: Wang Ling , Hu Gongliang , Zhou Tiehua
Published: June 2018

As a new education product in the information age, Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) command momentous public attention for their unexpected rise and flexible application. However, the striking contrast between the high rate of registration and the low rate of completion has put their development into a bottleneck. In this paper, we present a semantic analysis model (SMA) to track the emotional tendencies of learners in order to analyze the acceptance of the courses based on big data from homework completion, comments, forums and other real-time update information on the MOOC platforms. Through emotional quantification and machine learning calculations, graduation probability can be predicted for different stages of learning in real time. Especially for learners with emotional tendencies, customized instruction could be made in order to improve completion and graduation rates. Furthermore, we classified the learners into four categories according to course participation time series and emotional states. In the experiments, we made a comprehensive evaluation of the students’ overall learning status by kinds of learners and emotional tendencies. Our proposed method can effectively recognize learners’ emotional tendencies by semantic analysis, providing an effective solution for MOOC personalized teaching, which can help achieve education for sustainable development.
Exploring Antecedents of Green Tourism Behaviors: A Case Study in Suburban Areas of Taipei, Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Judith Chen-Hsuan , Chiang Ai-Hsuan , Yuan Yulan , Huang Ming-Yuan
Published: June 2018

Understanding user behaviors is the foundation to support the design and development of a sustainably built environment. This exploratory study used a mixed method to explore people’s perception, motivation, intention, and behaviors of green tourism in Taiwan. The qualitative approach explored intrinsic and extrinsic factors that could influence people’s intention to participate in green tourism. The quantitative approach provided evidence of influencing factors of green tourism. The findings suggested that variables, such as perception, attitudes, and self-efficacy, can indirectly influence green tourism behaviors through behavioral intention. This study suggests that government agencies should emphasize environmental education regarding the relationship between climate change and people’s life; therefore, people will increase their environmental awareness regarding the urgent conditions of the environment, in addition to supporting green tourism and being more responsible for their tourism behaviors. For cities intending to accommodate tourism or Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) that are interested in promoting green tourism, it is critical to incorporate relevant factors, such as destination services and educational elements, into the design and development principles to built environment that supports green tourism activities.