bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy Improvement of Anomaly Detection by Using Intelligence Sharing Scheme
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Li Mingchu , Ayoub Naeem , Aamir Muhammad
Published: January 2019

Computer networks are facing threats of ever-increasing frequency and sophistication. Encryption is becoming the norm in both legitimate and malicious network traffic. Therefore, intrusion detection systems (IDSs) are now required to work efficiently regardless of the encryption. In this study, we propose two new methods to improve the efficacy of the Cisco Cognitive Threat Analytics (CTA) system. In the first method, the efficacy of CTA is improved by sharing of intelligence information across a large number of enterprise networks. In the second method, a four variant-based global reputation model (GRM) is designed by employing an outlier ensemble normalization algorithm in the presence of missing data. Intelligence sharing provides additional information in the intrusion detection process, which is much needed, particularly for analysis of encrypted traffic with inherently low information content. Robustness of the novel outlier ensemble normalization algorithm is also demonstrated. These improvements are measured using both encrypted and non-encrypted network traffic. Results show that the proposed information sharing methods greatly improve the anomaly detection efficacy of malicious network behavior with bad base-line detection efficacy and slightly improve upon the average case.
Cloud-Fog Architecture Based Energy Management and Decision-Making for Next-Generation Distribution Network with Prosumers and Internet of Things Devices
Authors: Yue Jingpeng , Hu Zhijian , He Ruijiang , Zhang Xinyan , Dulout Jeremy , Li Chendan , Guerrero Josep M.
Published: January 2019

With the increasing penetration of Internet of Things devices and distributed energy resources in the next-generation distribution network, the efficient energy management for system operation are facing new challenges. One reason is that the large-scale resources cannot be all connected to the supervisory control and data acquisition system, which have limited storage and computation capabilities. In order to adapt to the new energy management requirements of next-generation distribution networks, a state-of-the-art energy management method called cloud-fog hierarchical architecture is proposed in this work. Based on this architecture, we established a utility and revenue model for various stakeholders, including normal customers, prosumers, and distribution system operators. Furthermore, by embedding an artificial intelligence module in the proposed architecture, energy management could be implemented automatically. In this work, neural network are used at fog computing layers to achieve regression prediction of energy usage behavior and power source output. Moreover, based on the maximizing utility objective function, the amount of energy consumption of customers and prosumers in the distribution network was optimized with a genetic algorithm at cloud layer. The proposed methods were tested with a set of normal customers and prosumers in a general distribution network, and the results, including the captured usage patterns of the customers and revenues of various stakeholders, verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. This work provides an effective reference for the development of real-time energy management systems for the next-generation distribution network.
Angiography Simulation and Planning Using a Multi-Fluid Approach
Authors: Huang Dongjin , Tang Pengbin , Tang Wen , Wan Tao Ruan
Published: January 2019

Angiography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure in endovascular interventions. Training interventional procedures is a big challenge, due to the complexity of the procedures with the changes of measurement and visualization in blood flow rate, volume, and image contrast. In this paper, we present a novel virtual reality-based 3D interactive training platform for angiography procedure training. We propose a multi-fluid flow approach with a novel corresponding non-slip boundary condition to simulate the effect of diffusion between the blood and contrast media. A novel syringe device tool is also designed as an add-on hardware to the 3D software simulation system to model haptics through real physical interactions to enhance the realism of the simulation-based training. Experimental results show that the system can simulate realistic blood flow in complex blood vessel structures. The results are validated by visual comparisons between real angiography images and simulations. By combining the proposed software and hardware, our system is applicable and scalable to many interventional radiology procedures. Finally, we have tested the system with clinicians to assess its efficacy for virtual reality-based medical training.
Diverse Decoding for Abstractive Document Summarization
Authors: Han Xu-Wang , Zheng Hai-Tao , Chen Jin-Yuan , Zhao Cong-Zhi
Published: January 2019

Recently, neural sequence-to-sequence models have made impressive progress in abstractive document summarization. Unfortunately, as neural abstractive summarization research is in a primitive stage, the performance of these models is still far from ideal. In this paper, we propose a novel method called Neural Abstractive Summarization with Diverse Decoding (NASDD). This method augments the standard attentional sequence-to-sequence model in two aspects. First, we introduce a diversity-promoting beam search approach in the decoding process, which alleviates the serious diversity issue caused by standard beam search and hence increases the possibility of generating summary sequences that are more informative. Second, we creatively utilize the attention mechanism combined with the key information of the input document as an estimation of the salient information coverage, which aids in finding the optimal summary sequence. We carry out the experimental evaluation with state-of-the-art methods on the CNN/Daily Mail summarization dataset, and the results demonstrate the superiority of our proposed method.
Broadband Right-Angle Rectangular Waveguide to Substrate Integrated Waveguide Transition with Distributed Impedance Matching Network
Authors: Vincenti Gatti Roberto , Rossi Riccardo , Dionigi Marco
Published: January 2019

A broadband right-angle rectangular waveguide to substrate integrated waveguide transition for hybrid RWG-SIW (rectangular waveguide–substrate integrated waveguide) feeding networks is presented. The narrower return loss bandwidth issue with respect to in-line configurations is addressed with the introduction of a multi-section matching network consisting of a number of symmetric E-plane irises in the rectangular waveguide section. A hybrid design procedure based on circuit simulation and full-wave optimization is outlined and adopted to synthesize three matching networks with respectively one, two, and three irises, according to the bandwidth to be covered. The design procedure is experimentally validated with a proof-of-concept prototype.
Advanced NDT Methods and Data Processing on Industrial CFRP Components
Authors: Dattoma Vito , Panella Francesco , Pirinu Alessandra , Saponaro Andrea
Published: January 2019

In this work, enhanced thermal data processing is developed with experimental procedures, improving visualization algorithm for sub-surface defect detection on industrial composites. These materials are prone to successful infrared nondestructive investigation analyses, since defects are easily characterized by temperature response under thermal pulses with reliable results. Better defect characterization is achieved analyzing data with refined processing and experimental procedures, providing detailed contrasts maps where defects are better distinguished. Thermal data are analyzed for different CFRP specimens with artificial defects and experimental procedures are verified on real structural aeronautical component with internal anomalies due to impact simulation. A better computation method is found to be useful for simultaneous defect detection by means of automatic mapping of absolute contrast, optimized to identify defect boundaries.
The Equivalent Circuit Approach for the Electrical Diagnostics of Dielectric Barrier Discharges: The Classical Theory and Recent Developments
Authors: Pipa Andrei V. , Brandenburg Ronny
Published: January 2019

Measurements of current and voltage are the basic diagnostics for electrical discharges. However, in the case of dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs), the measured current and voltage waveforms are influenced by the discharge reactor geometry, and thus, interpretation of measured quantities is required to determine the discharge properties. This contribution presents the main stages of the development of electrical diagnostics of DBDs, which are based on lumped electrical elements. The compilation and revision of the contributions to the equivalent circuit approach are targeted to indicate: (1) the interconnection between the stage of development, (2) its applicability, and (3) the current state-of-the-art of this approach.
Integrative Analyses of Genes Associated with Subcutaneous Insulin Resistance
Authors: Pujar Manoj Kumar , Vastrad Basavaraj , Vastrad Chanabasayya
Published: January 2019

Insulin resistance is present in the majority of patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and obesity. In this study, we aimed to investigate the key genes and potential molecular mechanism in insulin resistance. Expression profiles of the genes were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses were conducted at Enrichr. The protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was settled and analyzed using the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) database constructed by Cytoscape software. Modules were extracted and identified by the PEWCC1 plugin. The microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcription factors (TFs) which control the expression of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed using the NetworkAnalyst algorithm. A database (GSE73108) was downloaded from the GEO databases. Our results identified 873 DEGs (435 up-regulated and 438 down-regulated) genetically associated with insulin resistance. The pathways which were enriched were pathways in complement and coagulation cascades and complement activation for up-regulated DEGs, while biosynthesis of amino acids and the Notch signaling pathway were among the down-regulated DEGs. Showing GO enrichment were cardiac muscle cell–cardiac muscle cell adhesion and microvillus membrane for up-regulated DEGs and negative regulation of osteoblast differentiation and dendrites for down-regulated DEGs. Subsequently, myosin VB (MYO5B), discs, large homolog 2(DLG2), axin 2 (AXIN2), protein tyrosine kinase 7 (PTK7), Notch homolog 1 (NOTCH1), androgen receptor (AR), cyclin D1 (CCND1) and Rho family GTPase 3 (RND3) were diagnosed as the top hub genes in the up- and down-regulated PPI network and modules. In addition, GATA binding protein 6 (GATA6), ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 5 (ENPP5), cyclin D1 (CCND1) and tubulin, beta 2A (TUBB2A) were diagnosed as the top hub genes in the up- and down-regulated target gene–miRNA network, while tubulin, beta 2A (TUBB2A), olfactomedin-like 1 (OLFML1), prostate adrogen-regulated mucin-like protein 1 (PARM1) and aldehyde dehydrogenase 4 family, member A1 (ALDH4A1)were diagnosed as the top hub genes in the up- and down-regulated target gene–TF network. The current study based on the GEO database provides a novel understanding regarding the mechanism of insulin resistance and may provide novel therapeutic targets.
Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) Expression Increases during Myocardial Infarction and Supports Pro-Inflammatory Signaling in Cardiac Fibroblasts
Authors: Voss Svenja , Krüger Saskia , Scherschel Katharina , Warnke Svenja , Schwarzl Michael , Schrage Benedikt , Girdauskas Evaldas , Meyer Christian , Blankenberg Stefan , Westermann Dirk , Lindner Diana
Published: January 2019

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a pleiotropic cytokine known to play a major role in inflammatory diseases such as myocardial infarction (MI), where its expression increases. Cardio-protective functions of MIF during ischemia have been reported. Recently, the structurally related MIF-2 was identified and similar effects are assumed. We wanted to further investigate the role of MIF and MIF-2 on inflammatory processes during MI. Therefore, we subjected mice to experimentally induced MI by coronary occlusion for one and five days. During the acute phase of MI, the gene expression of Mif was upregulated in the infarct zone, whereas Mif-2 was downregulated, suggesting a minor role of MIF-2. Simulating ischemic conditions or mechanical stress in vitro, we demonstrated that Mif expression was induced in resident cardiac cells. To investigate possible auto-/paracrine effects, cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts were individually treated with recombinant murine MIF, which in turn induced Mif expression and the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in cardiac fibroblasts. Cardiomyocytes did not respond to recombinant MIF with pro-inflammatory gene expression. While MIF stimulation alone did not change the expression of pro-fibrotic genes in cardiac fibroblasts, ischemia reduced their expression. Mimicking the increased MIF levels during MI, we exposed cardiac fibroblasts to simulated ischemia in the presence of MIF, which led to further reduced expression of pro-fibrotic genes. The presented data show that MIF was expressed by resident cardiac cells during MI. In vitro, Mif expression was induced by different external stimuli in cardiomyocytes and cardiac fibroblasts. Addition of recombinant MIF protein increased the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in cardiac fibroblasts including Mif expression itself. Thereby, cardiac fibroblasts may amplify Mif expression during ischemia promoting cardiomyocyte survival.
Putative Mechanisms Underlying High Inhibitory Activities of Bimodular DNA Aptamers to Thrombin
Authors: Zavyalova Elena G. , Legatova Valeriia A. , Alieva Rugiya Sh. , Zalevsky Arthur O. , Tashlitsky Vadim N. , Arutyunyan Alexander M. , Kopylov Alexey M.
Published: January 2019

Nucleic acid aptamers are prospective molecular recognizing elements. Similar to antibodies, aptamers are capable of providing specific recognition due to their spatial structure. However, the apparent simplicity of oligonucleotide folding is often elusive, as there is a balance between several conformations and, in some cases, oligomeric structures. This research is focused on establishing a thermodynamic background and the conformational heterogeneity of aptamers taking a series of thrombin DNA aptamers having G-quadruplex and duplex modules as an example. A series of aptamers with similar modular structures was characterized with spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques, providing examples of the conformational homogeneity of aptamers with high inhibitory activity, as well as a mixture of monomeric and oligomeric species for aptamers with low inhibitory activity. Thermodynamic parameters for aptamer unfolding were calculated, and their correlation with aptamer functional activity was found. Detailed analysis of thrombin complexes with G-quadruplex aptamers bound to exosite I revealed the similarity of the interfaces of aptamers with drastically different affinities to thrombin. It could be suggested that there are some events during complex formation that have a larger impact on the affinity than the states of initial and final macromolecules. Possible mechanisms of the complex formation and a role of the duplex module in the association process are discussed.
Victims of War: Dehydroepiandrosterone Concentrations in Hair and Their Associations with Trauma Sequelae in Palestinian Adolescents Living in the West Bank
Authors: Schindler Lena , Shaheen Mohammed , Saar-Ashkenazy Rotem , Bani Odeh Kifah , Sass Sophia-Helen , Friedman Alon , Kirschbaum Clemens
Published: January 2019

Due to its anti-glucocorticoid properties, the steroid hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) might play a role for coping with traumatic stress and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The majority of studies report elevated DHEA secretion and decreased cortisol/DHEA ratio associated with traumatic stress, however, contrasting results have also been published. One reason for this heterogeneity might be that in past studies, DHEA has been measured in plasma or saliva samples reflecting acute hormone levels. In comparison, the current study assessed the hair levels of DHEA and cortisol as long-term markers along with self-reported data on psychopathology and coping in 92 female adolescents aged 11–16 from the West Bank affected by the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Results showed that trauma-exposed individuals had significantly higher DHEA levels (p = 0.013) and lower cortisol/DHEA ratios (p = 0.036) than participants from the non-trauma group. Furthermore, DHEA and cortisol/DHEA ratio emerged as associated with trauma load and timing, but not with coping. By applying the novel method of DHEA analysis from hair samples, this study adds to the growing literature on the interplay of DHEA, cortisol, traumatic stress and coping, and provides valuable starting points for further research.
Neurostimulation for Intractable Chronic Pain
Authors: Deer Timothy , Jain Sameer , Hunter Corey , Chakravarthy Krishnan
Published: January 2019

The field of neuromodulation has seen unprecedented growth over the course of the last decade with novel waveforms, hardware advancements, and novel chronic pain indications. We present here an updated review on spinal cord stimulation, dorsal root ganglion stimulation, and peripheral nerve stimulation. We focus on mechanisms of action, clinical indications, and future areas of research. We also present current drawbacks with current stimulation technology and suggest areas of future advancements. Given the current shortage of viable treatment options using a pharmacological based approach and conservative interventional therapies, neuromodulation presents an interesting area of growth and development for the interventional pain field and provides current and future practitioners a fresh outlook with regards to its place in the chronic pain treatment paradigm.
An Amino-Chain Modified β-cyclodextrin: A Supramolecular Ligand for Pd(OAc)2 Acceleration in Suzuki–Miyaura Coupling Reactions in Water
Authors: Shinde Vijay Vilas , Jeong Daham , Jung Seunho
Published: January 2019

A well-designed and synthesized water-soluble class of β-cyclodextrin supported palladium complex PdLn@Et-β-CD could efficiently validate high catalytic activity and act as a supramolecular platform for phosphine-free Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions between arylboronic acid/arylboronic ester and aryl halides in water under mild conditions. The presented novel PdLn@Pr-β-CD complex catalyst was characterized by NMR, XRD, FT-IR, and DSC analysis. Furthermore, the role of the PdLn@Et-β-CD fragment in the reaction mechanism studied by molecular complexation was proposed based on FT-IR, 2D NMR (ROESY) spectroscopy, FE-SEM, and DSC spectroscopic analysis. The important benefits of this technique comprise simple phosphine-free preparation of the palladium catalyst, a wide range of functional-group tolerance, and easy recyclability; this method, furthermore, eschews hazardous reagents or solvents.
Biochemical Differences in Cerebrospinal Fluid between Secondary Progressive and Relapsing–Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Herman Stephanie , Åkerfeldt Torbjörn , Spjuth Ola , Burman Joachim , Kultima Kim
Published: January 2019

To better understand the pathophysiological differences between secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) and relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), and to identify potential biomarkers of disease progression, we applied high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) to investigate the metabolome of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The biochemical differences were determined using partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and connected to biochemical pathways as well as associated to clinical and radiological measures. Tryptophan metabolism was significantly altered, with perturbed levels of kynurenate, 5-hydroxytryptophan, 5-hydroxyindoleacetate, and N-acetylserotonin in SPMS patients compared with RRMS and controls. SPMS patients had altered kynurenine compared with RRMS patients, and altered indole-3-acetate compared with controls. Regarding the pyrimidine metabolism, SPMS patients had altered levels of uridine and deoxyuridine compared with RRMS and controls, and altered thymine and glutamine compared with RRMS patients. Metabolites from the pyrimidine metabolism were significantly associated with disability, disease activity and brain atrophy, making them of particular interest for understanding the disease mechanisms and as markers of disease progression. Overall, these findings are of importance for the characterization of the molecular pathogenesis of SPMS and support the hypothesis that the CSF metabolome may be used to explore changes that occur in the transition between the RRMS and SPMS pathologies.
Erosion Resistance and Damage Mechanism of TiN/ZrN Nanoscale Multilayer Coating
Authors: Chen Jiao , Geng Mingrui , Li Yuqin , Yang Zhufang , Chai Yan , He Guangyu
Published: January 2019

Ceramic coating is an effective method for improving the erosion resistance of a material, particularly for titanium alloys. In this study, a TiN/ZrN (ceramic/ceramic) nanoscale multilayer coating is designed and prepared on the Ti6Al4V titanium alloy surface by the physical vapor deposition (PVD) process. The cross-sectional microstructure and phase composition are measured using SEM and XRD, respectively. The hardness, elastic modulus, and adhesion of the coating are measured by the nano-indentation and scratch method. The erosion test is conducted at a 45° angle with 100 m/s velocity using self-developed erosion equipment. The erosion resistance mechanisms of both the substrate and the coating are revealed more intuitively through a single sand particle impact test. The results show that the erosion resistance rate of the coating is 15.5 times higher than that of the titanium alloy substrate. The damage mechanisms of material removal of the coating include crack deflection, crack branching, and succeeding interaction between them when suffering an impacting load. These cracks are started from the droplets and the stress concentrations on the coating surface during the preparation of coating. They are the primary reasons for the decrease in the erosion resistance of the coating. This research is important for the optimization of the erosion-resistant coating structure.
Trapping and Optomechanical Sensing of Particles with a Nanobeam Photonic Crystal Cavity
Authors: Ren Lin , Li Yunpeng , Li Na , Chen Chao
Published: January 2019

Particle trapping and sensing serve as important tools for non-invasive studies of individual molecule or cell in bio-photonics. For such applications, it is required that the optical power to trap and detect particles is as low as possible, since large optical power would have side effects on biological particles. In this work, we proposed to deploy a nanobeam photonic crystal cavity for particle trapping and opto-mechanical sensing. For particles captured at 300 K, the input optical power was predicted to be as low as 48.8 μW by calculating the optical force and potential of a polystyrene particle with a radius of 150 nm when the trapping cavity was set in an aqueous environment. Moreover, both the optical and mechanical frequency shifts for particles with different sizes were calculated, which can be detected and distinguished by the optomechanical coupling between the particle and the designed cavity. The relative variation of the mechanical frequency achieved approximately 400%, which indicated better particle sensing compared with the variation of the optical frequency (±0.06%). Therefore, our proposed cavity shows promising potential as functional components in future particle trapping and manipulating applications in lab-on-chip.
Three-Phase Three-Level Flying Capacitor PV Generation System with an Embedded Ripple Correlation Control MPPT Algorithm
Authors: Hammami Manel , Ricco Mattia , Ruderman Alex , Grandi Gabriele
Published: January 2019

This paper presents the implementation of a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm in a multilevel three-phase photovoltaic (PV) system using the ripple correlation control (RCC) method. Basically, RCC adopts the inherent oscillations of PV current and voltage as perturbation, and it has been predominantly used for single-phase configurations, where the oscillations correspond to the 2nd order harmonics. The implementation of an RCC-MPPT algorithm in a three-phase system has not been presented yet in the literature. In this paper, the considered three-phase three-level converter is a three-level flying capacitor (FC) inverter. The proffered RCC method uses the 3rd harmonic components of PV current and voltage for the estimation of the voltage derivative of the power dPpv/dVpv (or current, dIpv/dVpv), compelling the PV array to operate at or very close to the maximum power point. The analysis and calculation of the low-frequency PV current and voltage ripple harmonic components in the three-phase flying capacitor inverter is presented first, with reference to centered carrier-based three-level PWM. The whole grid-connected PV generation scheme has been implemented by MATLAB/Simulink, and detailed numerical simulations verified the effectiveness of the control method in both steady-state and dynamic conditions, emulating different sun irradiance transients.
DC-Microgrid System Design, Control, and Analysis
Authors: El-Shahat Adel , Sumaiya Sharaf
Published: January 2019

Recently direct current (DC) microgrids have drawn more consideration because of the expanding use of direct current (DC) energy sources, energy storages, and loads in power systems. Design and analysis of a standalone solar photovoltaic (PV) system with DC microgrid has been proposed to supply power for both DC and alternating current (AC) loads. The proposed system comprises of a solar PV system with boost DC/DC converter, Incremental conductance (IncCond) maximum power point tracking (MPPT), bi-directional DC/DC converter (BDC), DC-AC inverter and batteries. The proposed bi-directional DC/DC converter (BDC) lessens the component losses and upsurges the efficiency of the complete system after many trials for its components’ selection. Additionally, the IncCond MPPT is replaced by Perturb & Observe (P&O) MPPT, and a particle swarm optimization (PSO) one. The three proposed techniques’ comparison shows the ranking of the best choice in terms of the achieved maximum power and fast—dynamic response. Furthermore, a stability analysis of the DC microgrid system is investigated with a boost converter and a bidirectional DC-DC converter with the Lyapunov function for the system has been proposed. The complete system is designed and executed in a MATLAB/SIMULINK environment and validated utilizing an OPAL real-time simulator.
Controlled Layer-By-Layer Deposition of Carbon Nanotubes on Electrodes for Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Wu Wenguo , Niu Hao , Yang Dayun , Wang Shi-Bin , Wang Jiefu , Lin Jia , Hu Chaoyi
Published: January 2019

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and polyelectrolyte poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) composite modified indium tin oxide (ITO) electrodes, by a layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly technique, was evaluated as an anode for microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The bioelectrochemistry of Shewanella loihica PV-4 in an electrochemical cell and the electricity generation performance of MFCs with multilayer (CNTs/PAH)n-deposited ITO electrodes as an anode were investigated. Experimental results showed that the current density generated on the multilayer modified electrode increased initially and then decreased as the deposition of the number of layers (n = 12) increased. Chronoamperometric results showed that the highest peak current density of 34.85 ± 2.80 mA/m2 was generated on the multilayer (CNTs/PAH)9-deposited ITO electrode, of which the redox peak current of cyclic voltammetry was also significantly enhanced. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analyses showed a well-formed nanostructure porous film on the surface of the multilayer modified electrode. Compared with the plain ITO electrode, the multilayered (CNTs/PAH)9 anodic modification improved the power density of the dual-compartment MFC by 29%, due to the appropriate proportion of CNTs and PAH, as well as the porous nanostructure on the electrodes.
Watershed and Pahu-anCave Stream Interconnectivity in Bonliw, Torrijos, Marinduque, Philippines
Authors: Mascareñas Doreen , de Leon Roy , Delos Reyes Efren
Published: January 2019

Marinduque Island is characterized as having a karst landscape with caves having underground streams harboring a variety of freshwater organisms including freshwater shrimps which are dependent on the quality of the forest and watershed. This study aimed to characterize the forest cover overlying the cave, siltation/sedimentation rate in the surface and cave streams, nutrient contents (ammonium, phosphate. and sulfate) of the sediment and water, and freshwater shrimps and phytoplanktons present in both streams. Results of the assessment indicate that the surface stream and the cave stream in the Torrijos Watershed Forest Reserve are interconnected as shown by both streams having similar freshwater shrimps and phytoplankton species. Phytoplanktons to develop will need sunlight which is devoid in the cave, and therefore have to be transported to the caves to be present. The freshwater shrimps found in the cave are not troglobitic and therefore has found its way to the cave stream. Further, there seemed to be a similar trend on the total suspended solids, sedimentation rates and amount of nutrients (phosphates) between the two streams. Although organic matter and nutrients from the aboveground landscape are needed for the sustenance of organisms in the cave ecosystem (the abundance of which are dependent on the connectivity of the two water systems), siltation/sedimentation can ultimately threaten the water quality of cave stream. With the forest in the watershed area characterized as denuded, the threat is evident. The protection of the watersheds and its landscape is imperative.
Presenting MASSIMO: A Management Scenario Simulation Model to Project Growth, Harvests and Carbon Dynamics of Swiss Forests
Authors: Stadelmann Golo , Temperli Christian , Rohner Brigitte , Didion Markus , Herold Anne , Rösler Erik , Thürig Esther
Published: January 2019

Forest development models have been used to predict future harvesting potentials and forest management reference levels under the Kyoto guidelines. This contribution aims at presenting the individual-tree simulator MASSIMO (MAnagement Scenario SImulation Model) and demonstrating its scope of applications with simulations of two possible forest management reference levels (base or business as usual) in an example application. MASSIMO is a suitable tool to predict timber harvesting potentials and forest management reference levels to assess future carbon budgets of Swiss forests. While the current version of MASSIMO accurately accounts for legacy effects and management scenarios, effects of climate and nitrogen deposition on growth, mortality, and regeneration are not yet included. In addition to including climate sensitivity, the software may be further improved by including effects of species mixture on tree growth and assessing ecosystem service provision based on indicators.
Mechanical Properties of Concrete with Steel and Polypropylene Fibres at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Bošnjak Josipa , Sharma Akanshu , Grauf Kevin
Published: January 2019

Addition of steel fibres to concrete is known to have a significant positive influence on the mechanical properties of concrete. Micro polypropylene (PP) fibres are added to concrete to improve its performance under thermal loads such as in case of fire by preventing the phenomena of explosive spalling. An optimum mixture of steel and micro PP fibres added to concrete may be utilized to enhance both the mechanical and thermal behaviour of concrete. In this work, systematic investigations were carried out to study the influence of elevated temperature on the mechanical properties and physical properties of high strength concrete without and with fibres. Three different mixtures for high strength concrete were used, namely normal concrete without fibres, Steel fibre reinforced concrete and Hybrid fibre reinforced concrete having a blend of hooked end steel fibres and micro PP fibres. The specimens were tested in ambient conditions as well as after exposure to a pre-defined elevated temperature and cooling down to room temperature. For all investigated concrete mixtures the thermal degradation of following properties were investigated: compressive strength, tensile splitting strength, bending strength, fracture energy and static modulus of elasticity. This paper summarizes the findings of the tests performed.
Effects of Ortho-Phosphate on Growth Performance, Welfare and Product Quality of Juvenile African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Authors: Strauch Sebastian M. , Bahr Judith , Baßmann Björn , Bischoff Adrian A. , Oster Michael , Wasenitz Berit , Palm Harry W.
Published: January 2019

Ortho-phosphate inside recirculation aquaculture systems is limited as a consequence of precipitation and regular water exchange rates. To improve plant growth in coupled aquaponics, phosphate fertilizer addition to hydroponics can increase PO43−-P concentrations inside the process water. We investigated the effects of four PO43−-P concentrations (<10 (P0), 40, 80, 120 mg L−1) in rearing water on growth performance, feed efficiency, and welfare traits of juvenile African catfish (Clarias gariepinus Burchell, 1822). By trend, optimum specific growth rate of 2.66% d−1 and feed conversion ratio of 0.71 were observed at 40 and 80 mg L−1 PO43−-P. Higher PO43−-P significantly affected skin coloration, swimming activity and external injuries, with the palest and inactive fish combined with most external injuries in the P120 group. Mineral and protein contents in the fish remained unaffected, while fat content inside the fillets enriched with increasing PO43−-P. Inorganic P in blood plasma increased significantly, while phosphate concentrations inside the fillet remained unchanged. We suggest that PO43−-P concentrations of 40 to 80 mg L−1 do not reduce the performance of African catfish aquaculture, while increased values of 120 mg L−1 affect fish welfare. This allows limited addition of PO43−-P fertilizer in coupled aquaponics with African catfish to support plant growth.
Field Studies and 3D Modelling of Morphodynamics in a Meandering River Reach Dominated by Tides and Suspended Load
Authors: Xie Qiancheng , Yang James , Lundström T. Staffan
Published: January 2019

Meandering is a common feature in natural alluvial streams. This study deals with alluvial behaviors of a meander reach subjected to both fresh-water flow and strong tides from the coast. Field measurements are carried out to obtain flow and sediment data. Approximately 95% of the sediment in the river is suspended load of silt and clay. The results indicate that, due to the tidal currents, the flow velocity and sediment concentration are always out of phase with each other. The cross-sectional asymmetry and bi-directional flow result in higher sediment concentration along inner banks than along outer banks of the main stream. For a given location, the near-bed concentration is 2−5 times the surface value. Based on Froude number, a sediment carrying capacity formula is derived for the flood and ebb tides. The tidal flow stirs the sediment and modifies its concentration and transport. A 3D hydrodynamic model of flow and suspended sediment transport is established to compute the flow patterns and morphology changes. Cross-sectional currents, bed shear stress and erosion-deposition patterns are discussed. The flow in cross-section exhibits significant stratification and even an opposite flow direction during the tidal rise and fall; the vertical velocity profile deviates from the logarithmic distribution. During the flow reversal between flood and ebb tides, sediment deposits, which is affected by slack-water durations. The bed deformation is dependent on the meander asymmetry and the interaction between the fresh water flow and tides. The flood tides are attributable to the deposition, while the ebb tides, together with run-offs, lead to slight erosion. The flood tides play a key role in the morphodynamic changes of the meander reach.
A Three-Dimensional Flow and Sediment Transport Model for Free-Surface Open Channel Flows on Unstructured Flexible Meshes
Authors: Lai Yong G. , Wu Kuowei
Published: January 2019

Three-dimensional (3D) hydrostatic-pressure-assumption numerical models are widely used for environmental flows with free surfaces and phase interfaces. In this study, a new flow and sediment transport model is developed, aiming to be general and more flexible than existing models. A general set of governing equations are used for the flow and suspended sediment transport, an improved solution algorithm is proposed, and a new mesh type is developed based on the unstructured polygonal mesh in the horizontal plane and a terrain-following sigma mesh in the vertical direction. The new flow model is verified first with the experimental cases, to ensure the validity of flow and free surface predictions. The model is then validated with cases having the suspended sediment transport. In particular, turbidity current flows are simulated to examine how the model predicts the interface between the fluid and sediments. The predicted results agree well with the available experimental data for all test cases. The model is generally applicable to all open-channel flows, such as rivers and reservoirs, with both flow and suspended sediment transport issues.
Of Mirrors and Bell Jars. Heterotopia and Liminal Spaces as Reconfigurations of Female Identity in Sylvia Plath
Authors: Bonasera Carmen
Published: January 2019

The poetry of Sylvia Plath (1932–1963) has received a considerable number of critical responses, among which spatial analysis occupies a minor position, although her texts explore complex relationships between subject and context. Drawing from a threefold theoretical apparatus (Bachelard’s theory of the poetic space, the Foucauldian concept of heterotopia, and the trope of liminality), this article focuses on the analysis of Plath’s increasing use of in-between spaces and objects of transition and transformations (mirrors, thresholds, windows), as well as on her predilection for heterotopic and alienating sceneries (hospital rooms, cemeteries), in both her poetry and prose. The study first acknowledges Plath’s choice of spatial imagery as a progressive orientation towards transitional states and places of otherness and ambivalence. Then, it highlights the specific role of heterotopic and liminal spaces in the process of reconfiguration of female identity. Given the impossibility for the female subject to rely on imprisoning domestic spheres to suture the edges of her fragmented self, reconceptualization of her own consciousness only becomes possible in the movement across a threshold. The analysis finally determines that the poetic evocation of spaces of conflict and difference paradoxically contributes to the shaping of female identity.
A Comparison between the Face of the Veil of Manoppello and the Face of the Shroud of Turin
Authors: De Caro Liberato , Matricciani Emilio , Fanti Giulio
Published: January 2019

Recently we have studied the unusual optical properties of the Veil of Manoppello, a canvas representing the face of Jesus Christ, and restored digitally the face, by eliminating the distortions of the anatomic details due the yielding of the very fine structure of the fabric. The aim of the present paper is to compare the restored face of the Veil with that visible on the Turin Shroud. In particular, the paper focuses on assessing whether the two images can be superimposed, i.e., whether they are different images of the same face. Indeed, some scholars have suggested that the Veil of Manoppello and the Turin Shroud show different images of the same face. We demonstrate that the face of the Turin Shroud, after a logarithmic transformation of the intensity and the correction of the background noise, shows cheeks’ profiles, not visible before the digital processing, which overlap very well with those of the restored face of the Veil of Manoppello. These correlations between the two images of the face of Jesus raise the question of their historical relationship.
Pneumoproteins in Offshore Drill Floor Workers
Authors: Kirkhus Niels E. , Ulvestad Bente , Barregard Lars , Skare Øivind , Olsen Raymond , Thomassen Yngvar , Ellingsen Dag G.
Published: January 2019

The aim was to assess pneumoproteins and a certain biomarker of systemic inflammation in drill floor workers exposed to airborne contaminants generated during drilling offshore, taking into consideration serum biomarkers of smoking, such as nicotine (S-Nico) and cotinine. Blood samples of club cell protein 16 (CC-16), surfactant protein D (SP-D) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were collected before and after a 14-day work period from 65 drill floor workers and 65 referents. Air samples of oil mist, drilling mud components and elemental carbon were collected in person. The drill floor workers were exposed to a median air concentration of 0.18 mg/m3 of oil mist and 0.14 mg/m3 of airborne mud particles. There were no differences in the concentrations of CC-16 and SP-D across the 14-day work period and no difference between drill floor workers and referents at baseline after adjusting for differences in sampling time and smoking. CRP decreased across the work period. There was a strong association between the CC-16 concentrations and the time of sampling. Current smokers with S-Nico > detection limit (DL) had a statistically significantly lower CC-16 concentration, while smokers with S-Nico < DL had CC-16 concentrations similar to that of the non-smokers. Fourteen days of work offshore had no effect on serum pneumoprotein and CRP concentrations. However, the time of blood sampling was observed to have a strong effect on the measured concentrations of CC-16. The effect of current smoking on the CC-16 concentrations appears to be dependent on the S-Nico concentrations.
The Safe Use of Pesticides: A Risk Assessment Procedure for the Enhancement of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Management
Authors: Fargnoli Mario , Lombardi Mara , Puri Daniele , Casorri Laura , Masciarelli Eva , Mandić-Rajčević Stefan , Colosio Claudio
Published: January 2019

The attention paid to the use of pesticides has increased notably in recent years as demonstrated by the issue of laws and regulations requiring their safe and environmentally-conscious use (e.g. Directive 2009/128/EC and Regulation (EC) no. 1272/2008). Despite the benefits that can be achieved by pursuing the targets of stricter legislative framework, the difficulties for farmers in complying with it are remarkable, especially for small-sized companies. In fact, in contrast to other occupational health and safety (OHS) contexts, in the case of pesticides even a preliminary analysis on the relationship between pesticide use and the consequent exposure risks for the workers is a complex task. In order to reduce the above-mentioned gap, the present study is focused on the development of an easy-to-use tool for carrying out occupational risk assessment of agricultural activities related to the use of pesticides. The procedure was developed by starting from the Agricultural Health Study (AHS) approach and its improvements, and continuing to the thorough development of a tool for preliminary risk assessment, providing a simplified model for its practical application by farmers. A case study concerning olive cultivation was used for its first verification. The results achieved should be considered as an initial step for the promotion of safer practices when using pesticides, providing a consistent base for their further validation.
Effectiveness of a Novel Continuous Doppler (Moyo) Versus Intermittent Doppler in Intrapartum Detection of Abnormal Foetal Heart Rate: A Randomised Controlled Study in Tanzania
Authors: Kamala Benjamin , Kidanto Hussein , Dalen Ingvild , Ngarina Matilda , Abeid Muzdalifat , Perlman Jeffrey , Ersdal Hege
Published: January 2019

Background: Intrapartum foetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring is crucial for identification of hypoxic foetuses and subsequent interventions. We compared continuous monitoring using a novel nine-crystal FHR monitor (Moyo) versus intermittent single crystal Doppler (Doppler) for the detection of abnormal FHR. Methods: An unmasked randomised controlled study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Tanzania (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02790554). A total of 2973 low-risk singleton pregnant women in the first stage of labour admitted with normal FHR were randomised to either Moyo (n = 1479) or Doppler (1494) arms. The primary outcome was the proportion of abnormal FHR detection. Secondary outcomes were time intervals in labour, delivery mode, Apgar scores, and perinatal outcomes. Results: Moyo detected abnormal FHR more often (13.3%) compared to Doppler (9.8%) (p = 0.002). Time intervals from admission to detection of abnormal FHR were 15% shorter in Moyo (p = 0.12) and from the detection of abnormal FHR to delivery was 36% longer in Moyo (p = 0.007) compared to the Doppler arm. Time from last FHR to delivery was 12% shorter with Moyo (p = 0.006) compared to Doppler. Caesarean section rates were higher with the Moyo device compared to Doppler (p = 0.001). Low Apgar scores (<7) at the 1st and 5th min were comparable between groups (p = 0.555 and p = 0.800). Perinatal outcomes (fresh stillbirths and 24-h neonatal deaths) were comparable at delivery (p = 0.497) and 24-h post-delivery (p = 0.345). Conclusions: Abnormal FHR detection rates were higher with Moyo compared to Doppler. Moyo detected abnormal FHR earlier than Doppler, but time from detection to delivery was longer. Studies powered to detect differences in perinatal outcomes with timely responses are recommended.
Designing and Facilitating Collaborative Research Design and Data Analysis Workshops: Lessons Learned in the Healthy Neighborhoods Study
Authors: Binet Andrew , Gavin Vedette , Carroll Leigh , Arcaya Mariana
Published: January 2019

One impediment to expanding the prevalence and quality of community-engaged research is a shortage of instructive resources for collaboratively designing research instruments and analyzing data with community members. This article describes how a consortium of community residents, grassroots community organizations, and academic and public institutions implemented collaborative research design and data analysis processes as part of a participatory action research (PAR) study investigating the relationship between neighborhoods and health in the greater Boston area. We report how nine different groups of community residents were engaged in developing a multi-dimensional survey instrument, generating and testing hypotheses, and interpreting descriptive statistics and preliminary findings. We conclude by reflecting on the importance of balancing planned strategies for building and sustaining resident engagement with improvisational facilitation that is responsive to residents’ characteristics, interests and needs in the design and execution of collaborative research design and data analysis processes.