bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FAULTS FROM STALL CONTROLLED WIND TURBINES WITH ASYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS AND PITCH CONTROLLED WIND TURBINES WITH SYNCHRONOUS GENERATORS
Authors: MERIZALDE YURI-HUMBERTO , HERNANDEZ CALLEJO LUIS , GRACIA BERNAL JAVIER , DUQUE PEREZ OSCAR , BONILLA MORTE LUIS-MIGUEL , ZORITA LAMADRID ANGEL LUIS , MORINIGO SOTELO DANIEL
Published: August 2018

A large number of wind turbines from different manufacturers have been installed worldwide. They have different operating principles and are designed according to the climatic conditions of the installation site. The objective of this study is to perform a comparative analysis of the behavior of the different types of internal and external failures, their frequency and their duration for different types of wind turbines. To accomplish this, data collected directly from the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system is used to monitor two wind farms installed in Soria (Spain). The study reveals the typical faults of each type of wind turbine. Synchronous wind turbines and wind turbines with variable-pitch blades experience more types of faults; however, the frequency and duration of faults are greater in wind turbines with fixed-pitch blades and asynchronous generators.

Keywords: Wind turbine, stall control, pitch control, synchronous and asynchronous generators, faults, lost time.
IDENTIFICATION OF THE FACTORS WHICH INFLUENCE EMPLOYEE COMMITMENT USING SYSTEMS THINKING
Authors: RUIZ AMURRIO MARIA , ELORZA UNAI , LINNEUSSON GARY , ZABALETA ETXEBARRIA NOEMI
Published: August 2018

In our increasingly globalised economy, managing continuous change and remaining competitive has become a central issue for organisations in the industrial sector. Building a sustainable competitive advantage through effective decision making and the use of decision making tools has been widely studied [1,2].
The success of a company will be dependent on the skills of the workers, their capacity for learning, and adapting to special and evolving client necessities. Culture change via, communication and participation are the elements of change identified for engineering companies [3].
Thus, the main objective of this research is to understand the behaviour of commitment, the variables that influence it and the variables that are influenced by it. Commitment is considered a key factor due to its influence on performance.
The methodology that was followed was based on the modelling methodology proposed by Sterman [4]. The first step was the problem definition, the second step was data collection. The purpose was to define the feedback loops of which the conceptual model (CM) is composed. Thirdly, conceptual model definition was developed.
As a result, the final outcome that is achieved through this research is a conceptual model. The main function of this model is to facilitate the understanding of the behaviour of commitment through Systems Thinking tools.
This research contributes to both Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Systems Thinking (ST) fields of study. The most notable contribution for ST is the fact of combining more than one input source (Literature + Group Model Building + prior research) for the conceptual model definition. The combination of these input sources for an ST model is not common in the scientific community. Moreover, the use of ST in SHRM is limited.

Keywords: Commitment, Systems Thinking, Group Model Building, Strategic Human Resource Management.
SURFACE PREPARATION METHODOLOGY FOR NANOINDENTATION OF HIGH ROUGHNESS COATINGS
Authors: MARTINEZ DE BUJANDA JAVIER , FERNANDEZ PALACIO JOSE , ALMANDOZ SANCHEZ ELUXKA , FERNANDEZ DE ARA JONATHAN , LANDA LAZCANO PURIFICACION , GARCIA FUENTES GONZALO
Published: August 2018

This work presents a methodology for the preparation of the surface prior to nanoindentation tests that increases the precision of the results due in rough surfaces. In applications where the maximum indentation size is dimensionally comparable with the specimen roughness, the accuracy and precision may be too poor. The developed methodology is directed to these cases.
The methodology has been developed for thin coatings that are harder than the substrate. It has been validated and applied on TiO2 coatings deposited by PVD on Inconel® 718 and subjected to temperatures between 600 °C and 1100 °C, treatment that increases the specimen roughness. Modifying different parameters, it has been possible to analyse the improvement of the results due to the method and its uncertainty sources and to compare it with the usual nanoindentation technique.

PALABRAS CLAVE/KEYWORDS: Nanoindentación, capas finas, rugosidad, abrasión superficial, PVD, óxido de titanio.
Nanoindentation, thin coatings, roughness, surface abrasion, PVD, titanium oxide.
TOURISM INDUSTRY PROJECT CONNECTED 4.0. AT CRUISING SPEED
Authors: VAZQUEZ VAZQUEZ TEODORO , LUQUE SENDRA AMALIA , GONZALEZ ABRIL LUIS
Published: August 2018

New technological developments, hyper-connectivity and the globalisation of the economy are posing significant opportunities and challenges for today's economy. Therefore, the industry must also address these opportunities and challenges in order to evolve and position itself as a strong, competitive and international reference sector.
De la critique des dispositifs à l’intermédialité pour approcher les productions artistiques : bilan des travaux du séminaire Intermedialidades (Université Toulouse-Jean Jaurès, France)
Authors: Corrons Fabrice , Garnier Emmanuelle , Gobbé-Mévellec Euriell , Lumière Émilie , Martinez Thomas Monique , Mohring Agatha , Péran Bruno , Surbezy Agnès , Yemsi-Paillissé Anne-Claire
Published: August 2018

À l’occasion de la publication du numéro « Cartographier/Mapping » de la revue Intermédialités, le groupe des hispanistes du laboratoire LLA-CREATIS de l’Université Toulouse-Jean Jaurès a souhaité établir un bilan des travaux qu’il a menés depuis quatre ans en lien avec l’intermédialité, au sein du séminaire Intermedialidades. L’article s’attache ainsi à dégager les principales lignes de force de ces travaux, notamment : l’articulation des outils de l’intermédialité avec ceux de la critique des dispositifs développée au sein du laboratoire ces dix dernières années; l’intérêt de l’intermédialité entendue comme une approche conceptuelle plurielle pour explorer « l’entre-jeu complexe des médias » (Müller) dans toute production culturelle — artistique ou non —, quelles que soient son ampleur et sa complexité, et en mesurer finement les multiples enjeux; l’hypothèse, enfin, que dans cette perspective très large, il soit possible d’affirmer une spécificité du média artistique, que l’analyse d’objets intermédiaux permet de percevoir dans la mesure où ces objets peuvent porter la trace d’une intention artistique intermédiale, réfléchissant précisément sur la porosité, l’articulation, la friction entre les médias et sur la place de la création dans l’espace médiatique où elle émerge.
PPP1R35 is a novel centrosomal protein that regulates centriole length in concert with the microcephaly protein RTTN
Authors: Sydor Andrew Michael , Coyaud Etienne , Rovelli Cristina , Laurent Estelle , Liu Helen , Raught Brian , Mennella Vito
Published: August 2018

Centrosome structure, function, and number are finely regulated at the cellular level to ensure normal mammalian development. Here, we characterize PPP1R35 as a novel bona fide centrosomal protein and demonstrate that it is critical for centriole elongation. Using quantitative super-resolution microscopy mapping and live-cell imaging we show that PPP1R35 is a resident centrosomal protein located in the proximal lumen above the cartwheel, a region of the centriole that has eluded detailed characterization. Loss of PPP1R35 function results in decreased centrosome number and shortened centrioles that lack centriolar distal and microtubule wall associated proteins required for centriole elongation. We further demonstrate that PPP1R35 acts downstream of, and forms a complex with, RTTN, a microcephaly protein required for distal centriole elongation. Altogether, our study identifies a novel step in the centriole elongation pathway centered on PPP1R35 and elucidates downstream partners of the microcephaly protein RTTN.
Insights into the key determinants of membrane protein topology enable the identification of new monotopic folds
Authors: Entova Sonya , Billod Jean-Marc , Swiecicki Jean-Marie , Martín-Santamaría Sonsoles , Imperiali Barbara
Published: August 2018

Monotopic membrane proteins integrate into the lipid bilayer via reentrant hydrophobic domains that enter and exit on a single face of the membrane. Whereas many membrane-spanning proteins have been structurally characterized and transmembrane topologies can be predicted computationally, relatively little is known about the determinants of membrane topology in monotopic proteins. Recently, we reported the X-ray structure determination of PglC, a full-length monotopic membrane protein with phosphoglycosyl transferase (PGT) activity. The definition of this unique structure has prompted in vivo, biochemical, and computational analyses to understand and define key motifs that contribute to the membrane topology and to provide insight into the dynamics of the enzyme in a lipid bilayer environment. Using the new information gained from studies on the PGT superfamily we demonstrate that two motifs exemplify principles of topology determination that can be applied to the identification of reentrant domains among diverse monotopic proteins of interest.
In pursuit of generalism: Basic factors influencing the specialty decisions of osteopathic medical school seniors in 1995
Authors: Singer Allen M.
Published: August 2018

An analysis of survey responses of seniors graduating from osteopathic medical schools in 1995 shows that the selection of the medical specialty they planned to pursue in their postgraduate training was considerably influenced by 10 common factors. These factors ranged from the students' orientation to people or techniques, to prestige and income associated with the specialty. The People orientation factor exerted a strong influence on students planning to pursue primary care specialties (defined as Family Practice, General Internal Medicine, and General Pediatrics). Similarly, for students planning to pursue a nonprimary care specialty, the Prestige/income, the Intellectual Content factor, and the Research Factor, with its absence of stress and opportunity for research in other nonprimary care fields, swayed their decision. These findings have implications for the medical school admissions process. If that process can be used to identify students who relate well to people and are more oriented to dealing with preventive medicine and the broad spectrum of health problems presented by individual patients, then it could become an even greater force in the movement toward generalism in medicine.
Liberation through Cooperation: How Library Publishing Can Save Scholarly Journals from Neoliberalism
Authors: Ghamandi Dave S.
Published: August 2018

This commentary examines political and economic aspects of open access (OA) and scholarly journal publishing. Through a discourse of critique, neoliberalism is analyzed as an ideology causing many problems in the scholarly journal publishing industry, including the serials crisis. Two major efforts in the open access movement that promote an increase in OA funded by article-processing charges (APC)—the Open Access 2020 (OA2020) and Pay It Forward (PIF) initiatives—are critiqued as neoliberal frameworks that would perpetuate existing systems of domination and exploitation. In a discourse of possibility, ways of building a post-neoliberal system of journal publishing using new tactics and strategies, merging theory and praxis, and grounding in solidarity and cooperation are presented. This includes organizing journal publishing democratically using cooperatives, which could decommodify knowledge and provide greater open access. The article concludes with a vision for a New Fair Deal, which would revolutionize the system of scholarly journal publishing by transitioning journals to library publishing cooperatives.
Design of Compact Dual-band Fractal Monopole Antenna with Virtually Extended Ground Plane
Authors: Yassen M. T. , Hammas H. A. , Hussan M. R. , Salim A. J. , Ali J. K.
Published: August 2018

Achieving a particular response to serve multiple wireless applications is regarded as the primary demand in our modern age because of the considerable development of the communication devices. In this paper, a compact monopole antenna with reduced ground plane has been suggested to meet the requirements of the dual-band WLAN applications. The antenna miniaturization has been carried out in employing two techniques. Initially, the fractal geometry has been applied to the antenna radiating element. Two-sided Koch fractal curves up to the third iteration have been used to increase the path of electrical current on the surface of the radiating element which is in the form of a square with dimensions. To gain more miniaturization, the antenna ground plane has been further reduced by using different lengths of two open-ended parallel stubs to form a virtually extended ground plane. This supportive technique has been adopted as a tuning means to control the path of the electrical currents exciting the resulting resonances. The proposed antenna and has been printed on an FR-4 substrate with a thickness of 1.6 mm and 4.4 relative dielectric constant and is fed by 50-ohm microstrip feed line. The resulting antenna dimensions are of about 19.1 mm × 19.1 mm. A parametric study has been carried out, and the results reveal that the proposed antenna offers a dual-band performance with a considerable ratio of resonant frequencies covering the existing 2.4/5.2/5.8 GHz WLAN applications, besides many other communication services.
Effectiveness of five personal shark-bite deterrents for surfers
Authors: Huveneers Charlie , Whitmarsh Sasha , Thiele Madeline , Meyer Lauren , Fox Andrew , Bradshaw Corey J.A.
Published: August 2018

The number of shark-human interactions and shark bites per capita has been increasing since the 1980s, leading to a rise in measures developed to mitigate the risk of shark bites. Yet many of the products commercially available for personal protection have not been scientifically tested, potentially providing an exaggerated sense of security to the people using them. We tested five personal shark deterrents developed for surfers (Shark Shield Pty Ltd[Ocean Guardian]Freedom+ Surf, Rpela, SharkBanz bracelet, SharkBanz surf leash,andChillax Wax) by comparing the percentage of baits taken, distance to the bait, number of passes, and whether a shark reaction could be observed. We did a total of 297 successful trials at the Neptune Islands Group Marine Park in South Australia, during which 44 different white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) interacted with the bait, making a total of 1413 passes. The effectiveness of the deterrents was variable, with theFreedom+ Surfaffecting shark behaviour the most and reducing the percentage of bait taken from 96% (relative to the control board) to 40%. The mean distance of sharks to the board increased from 1.6 ± 0.1 m (control board) to 2.6 ± 0.1 m when theFreedom Surf+was active. The other deterrents had limited or no measureable effect on white shark behavour. Based on our power analyses, the smallest effect size that could be reliably detected was ∼15%, which for the first time provides information about the effect size that a deterrent study like ours can reliably detect. Our study shows that deterrents based on similar principles—overwhelming a shark’s electroreceptors (the ampullae of Lorenzini) with electrical pulses—differ in their efficacy, reinforcing the need to test each product independently. Our results will allow private and government agencies and the public to make informed decisions about the use and suitability of these five products.
A Highly Sensitive Force Sensor with Fast Response Based on Interlocked Arrays of Indium Tin Oxide Nanosprings toward Human Tactile Perception
Authors: Chun Sungwoo , Choi Il Yong , Son Wonkyeong , Bae Gi Yoon , Lee Eun Jae , Kwon Hyunah , Jung Jaimyun , Kim Hyoung Seop , Kim Jong Kyu , Park Wanjun
Published: August 2018

Development of a sensor for recognizing tactile feeling is essential for realizing artificial systems that can perform human tactile functions for various applications. For achieving the capability of human tactile sensation, highly sensitive responses are required not only to static pressures but also to dynamic high‐frequency vibrations. Here, a highly sensitive force sensor based on interlocked arrays of vertically aligned indium tin oxide (ITO) nanospring structures fabricated on a flexible polyethylene naphthalate substrate is presented. The combination of rigid ITO on the flexible substrate, its unique nanoscale spring‐like geometry, and the interlocking configuration results in sensitive responses to both static and dynamic pressures with a sub‐millisecond response time over wide pressure and frequency ranges appropriate for human tactile perception. Consequently, the sensor is capable of classifying eight fabrics possessing complex patterns with 99.8% accuracy. In addition, a flexible 14 × 14 force sensor matrix array is demonstrated, thus demonstrating the integration capability.
Molecular Design of Donor‐Acceptor‐Type Organic Photocatalysts for Metal‐free Aromatic C−C Bond Formations under Visible Light
Authors: Wang Lei , Byun Jeehye , Li Run , Huang Wei , Zhang Kai A. I.
Published: August 2018

Metal‐free and photocatalytic radical‐mediated aromatic C−C bond formations offer a promising alternative pathway to the conventional transition metal‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reactions. However, the formation of aryl radicals from common precursors such as aryl halides is highly challenging due to their extremely high reductive potential. Here, we report a structural design strategy of donor‐acceptor‐type organic photocatalysts for visible light‐driven C−C bond formations through the reductive dehalogenation of aryl halides. The reduction potential of the photocatalysts could be systematically aligned to be −2.04 V vs. SCE via a simple heteroatom engineering of the donor‐acceptor moieties. The high reductive potential of the molecular photocatalyst could reduce various aryl halides into aryl radicals to form the C−C bond with heteroarenes. The designability of the molecular photocatalyst further allowed the synthesis of a high LUMO (lowest unoccupied molecular orbital) polymer photocatalyst by a self‐initiated free radical polymerization without compromising its LUMO level.

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Water availability dynamics have long‐term effects on mature stem structure inVitis vinifera
Authors: Munitz Sarel , Netzer Yishai , Shtein Ilana , Schwartz Amnon
Published: August 2018

Premise of the Study

The stem ofVitis vinifera, a climbing vine of global economic importance, is characterized by both wide and narrow vessels and high specific hydraulic conductivity. While the effect of drought stress has been studied in 1‐ and 2‐yr‐old stems, there are few data documenting effects of drought stress on the anatomical structure of the mature, woody stem near the base of the vine. Here we describe mature wood anatomical responses to two irrigation regimes on wood anatomy and specific hydraulic conductivity inVitis viniferaMerlot vines.

Methods

For 4 years,irrigation was applied constantly at low, medium, or high levels, or at alternating levels at two different periods during the growing season, either early spring or late summer, resulting in late season or early spring deficits, respectively. The following variables were measured: trunk diameter, annual ring width and area, vessel diameter, specific hydraulic conductivity and stem water potential.

Key Results

High water availability early in the season (late deficit) resulted in vigorous vegetative growth (greater trunk diameter, ring width and area), wider vessels and increased specific hydraulic conductivity. High water availability early in the season caused a shift of the vessel population towards the wider frequency classes. These late deficit vines showed more negative water potential values late in the season than vines that received low but relatively constant irrigation.

Conclusions

We concluded that high water availability during vegetative growth period ofVitisincreases vessels diameter and hydraulic conductivity and causes the vines to be more vulnerable to drought stress late in the season.
Gram‐Scale Synthesis of a C2v‐Symmetric Hexaphenylbenzene with Three Different Types of Substituents
Authors: Liao Jingyuan , Kojima Tatsuo , Takahashi Satoshi , Hiraoka Shuichi
Published: August 2018

A large‐scale selective synthesis of a C2v‐symmetric hexaphenylbenzene (HPB) derivative with three different kinds of substituents on the periphery of HPB was realized using inexpensive reagents. All the reactions were carried out at room temperature or by heating and most materials along the synthetic route could be isolated without chromatographic purification.
Ultrafast PhotoRAFT Block Copolymerization of Isoprene and Styrene Facilitated through Continuous‐Flow Operation
Authors: Lauterbach Felix , Rubens Maarten , Abetz Volker , Junkers Tanja
Published: August 2018

Polymers made from isoprene and styrene resemble an important class of synthetic macromolecules found in a wide range of everyday commodity products. Their synthesis is usually limited to radical emulsion or anionic polymerization. Herein, we report on ultrafast photoiniferter reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization of isoprene and styrene in a continuous‐flow microreactor. The cooperative action of a high photoinitiation efficiency and use of elevated temperatures considerably reduces the reaction times to less than half an hour to give high monomer conversions, allowing for the first time polyisoprene to be yielded from controlled radical polymerization in high definition and reasonable reaction times. High chain‐end fidelities are maintained and block copolymers were prepared including a polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene‐block‐polystyrene (PS‐b‐PI‐b‐PS) triblock copolymer.
Characterization of Sunflower Stearin‐Based Confectionary Fats in Bulk and in Compound Coatings
Authors: Bootello Miguel A. , Chong Peng Siong , Máñez Ángel , Garcés Rafael , Martínez‐Force Enrique , Salas Joaquín J.
Published: August 2018

Sunflower stearins obtained by the fractionation of high‐oleic–high‐stearic sunflower oil (HOHS) can be used for cocoa butter equivalents (CBE). The main objectives of this work were: (1) Compare the performance of two sunflower stearin‐based CBE (palm‐free and palm‐containing) with commercial CBE and cocoa butter (CB) in terms of heat stability, hardness, and microstructure and (2) Test these sunflower stearin‐based CBE in milk chocolate and compound‐coating formulations to understand the evolution of their crystalline structure and the bloom development during storage. Sunflower stearin‐based CBE exhibited different polymorphic behaviors, as well as a smaller and more compact microstructure than commercial CBE and CB. Although sunflower stearin‐based CBE contain less‐saturated fatty acids than commercial ones, they had more solids at high temperature and higher hardness and could work as a CB improver. On the other hand, the use of increasing levels of sunflower stearin‐based CBE formulated and tested in this work on chocolate and compound‐coating formulations favored a faster crystallization into a more stable polymorph, and influenced the bloom evolution of these confectionery products.
Morphological characteristics of polymeric nylon‐6 film as biological recognition interface for electrochemical immunosensor application
Authors: Shaimi R. , Low S. C.
Published: August 2018

The present study elucidates the morphology characteristic of nylon‐6 as protein immobilization film and their influences in biological recognition interface for a single‐use electrochemical immunosensor. A basic requirement of this polymer platform is to allow the testing analyte [conductive polyaniline‐Fe2O3‐glutaraldehyde‐conjugated‐N‐hydroxysuccinimidobiotin (PANI‐Fe2O3‐GA‐b‐NHS)] to access to the immobilized capture reagent [bovine serum albumin (BSA)] on a surface of the nylon‐6 film. As an immunoassay, the biochemical reaction between PANI‐Fe2O3‐GA‐b‐NHS and BSA takes place on a surface of the nylon‐6 support film, which then translated into measurable resistance signal through pulse‐mode measurement. The in‐house developed nylon‐6 film, N‐16B, with 16 wt % nylon polymer and methanol as nonsolvent had demonstrated the fastest lateral wicking speed (1.07 mm s−1) and excellent protein immobilization capacity (1650 ± 85.84 μg cm−3), leading to the higher electrical current signal with a minimal resistance of electrochemical responses (0.57 ± 0.04 MΩ). This work reflects the importance of the physical characteristics of the nylon‐6 film that determines the sensitivity and effectiveness of an immunosensor. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2018,135, 46741.
Production of zwitterionic cellulose by citric acid and triethanolamine hydrochloride for various end uses
Authors: Min Ju‐Yeong , Choi Hyung‐Min
Published: August 2018

Zwitterionic cellulose was produced by the reaction of citric acid (CA) and triethanolamine hydrochloride (HTEA) on cotton fabrics with the pad–dry–cure method. The wrinkle resistance, dye affinity to anionic dye, antimicrobial properties, and zwitterionic properties were considerably improved. The fixation of CA and HTEA in cotton was confirmed by the wrinkle recovery angle, thermogravimetric analysis, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Elemental analysis and anionic dye sorption testing also substantiated the HTEA fixation. The X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy results suggest that CA and HTEA were fixed in the amorphous region of cotton with little surface deposition. The zwitterionic properties of the treated cotton was studied with a cationic dye at various pHs. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46840.
Synthesis and antimicrobial applications of the inclusion complexes of β‐cyclodextrin copolymers with potassium sorbate
Authors: Cao Yu , Li Jiayu , Liu Jun , Tang Yuying , Liu Huan , Jiang Yan , Zhang Hongwen
Published: August 2018

Four inclusion complexes were synthesized from β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) copolymers and potassium sorbate (PSA) using the self‐assembly principle. Reactive β‐CD monomers carrying unsaturated ester functional groups [β‐CD‐acryloyl chloride (AC)] were synthesized from β‐CD and AC and copolymerized with styrene to obtain β‐CD copolymers of the general formula poly(β‐CD‐AC‐co‐St). These β‐CD copolymers having cavity structures were complexed with PSA to obtain the corresponding inclusion complexes of the general formula poly(β‐CD‐AC‐co‐St)/PSA. These complexes were added to the polystyrene (PS) sheets, as an antibacterial additive, to inhibit the adhesion and growth of bacteria on its surface. The chemical and physical structures of copolymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and the slow release performance was investigated using ultraviolet spectroscopy. The results showed that the composition of the copolymers and their molecular weight could be controlled by changing the rate of charge while the rate and the amount of slow release could be controlled by altering the content of β‐CD in the copolymer. The PS sheets containing the inclusion complexes exhibited excellent antibacterial activity that significantly reduced the adhesion of yeast and Staphylococcus aureus to its surface. With the increase of the β‐CD content in the copolymers, they contained more of PSA and their bacteriostatic property became more pronounced. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46885.
Synthesis and characterization of aniline‐containing anion‐conducting polymer electrolyte membranes by radiation‐induced graft polymerization
Authors: Hamada Takashi , Yoshimura Kimio , Hiroki Akihiro , Maekawa Yasunari
Published: August 2018

Poly(trimethylaminostyrene hydroxide)‐grafted poly(ethylene‐co‐tetrafluoroethylene) (ETFE) membranes (An‐AEM/OH) were prepared by the radiation‐induced graft polymerization of N,N‐dimethylaminostyrene and successive quaternization and anion‐exchange reactions. An‐AEM/OH with an ion‐exchange capacity (IEC) of 1.59 mmol/g exhibited a conductivity of 74 mS/cm (60°C) and a water uptake of 66%. These values were lower than those of poly(vinylbenzyltrimethylammonium hydroxide)‐grafted ETFE (BA‐AEM/OH) with a similar IEC. The conductivities of An‐AEM/OH with IECs = 0.67 mmol/g and 1.59 mmol/g decreased to 40% and 46% of the initial values after a week, while the membranes maintained their shape even after immersion in 1 M KOH at 80°C for 3 weeks. An‐AEM/OH exhibited higher chemical stability than BA‐AEM/OH. The main degradation route is confirmed to be the nucleophilic attack of hydroxide ions on the methyl groups of the aniline nitrogen from the results of thermal and chemical stability. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46886.
City of Cape Town's Water Map
Authors: Sinclair‐Smith Ken , Mosdell Susan , Kaiser Gisela , Lalla Ziyaad , September Leandre , Mubadiro Collin , Rushmere Sarah , Roderick Katherine , Brühl Johanna , McLaren Megan , Visser Martine
Published: August 2018

The Cape Town Water Map is an innovative and somewhat controversial behavior‐modification tool implemented to reduce water use in a drought‐stricken region.
Acknowledging the Good Work of Water‐Aid Organizations
Authors: Waterhouse Keith B.
Published: August 2018

Though public health threats from water challenges are likely to increase as populations in developing countries grow, the dedicated work and innovation of water‐aid organizations provide not just relief to those in need but inspiration for humankind.
Systematic assessment of triticale‐based biorefinery strategies: environmental evaluation using life cycle assessment
Authors: Liard Gladys , Lesage Pascal , Samson Réjean , Stuart Paul R
Published: August 2018

Triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) is a non‐food energy crop with potential as a biorefinery feedstock. In addition to technical, economical, and commercial risks, it is of critical importance that environmental issues be considered in the decision‐making process regarding the development of the triticale‐based biorefinery. In this study, life cycle assessment (LCA) has been used for this purpose. To facilitate overall decision‐making including economic and other metrics, the number of environmental indicators should be minimized, and yet at the same time, these indicators should be representative, comprehensive, and easy to interpret. To identify such a set of environmental indicators from LCA results, a multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) panel study was carried out and an external set of normalization factors used to assist in this decision‐making context. The influence of eight technology choices on the environmental impacts resulting from the production of ethanol, polylactic acid (PLA), and thermoplastic starch (TPS) blend was assessed. Moreover, the environmental benefits of improved triticale yield and its ability to grow on marginal land were assessed. Although the complete spectrum of environmental impact categories was evaluated, the MCDM panel selected four criteria to be brought forward to an overall decision‐making panel. The greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions metric was judged as the most important, followed by non‐renewable resource depletion, cropland occupation, and human health. Moreover, it was shown that certain technology choices such as ultra‐filtration and cogeneration significantly influence the environmental impacts of the triticale biorefinery. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Systematic assessment of triticale‐based biorefinery strategies: investment decisions for sustainable biorefinery business models
Authors: Chambost Virginie , Janssen Matty , Stuart Paul R
Published: August 2018

Strategic investments in biorefinery projects are increasingly being made, and involve non‐traditional decision making, especially considering the technology and market risks involved. From the investor's perspective, the decision‐making process leading to product/process combinations for implementation as a biorefinery to achieve a sustainable business model and good economic returns is not obvious. Typical metrics used for investment decision making have some limitations regarding the recognition of acceptable technology risks relative to economic returns. They often do not appropriately consider factors and analyses related to, for example, environmental impact and the longer term competitive position of new product portfolios. The methodology presented in this article is an approach to identifying a ‘practical’ set of multi‐disciplinary decision‐making criteria to enable the selection of the preferred product/process biorefinery implementation strategy. The case of investment options in the triticale (X Triticosecale Wittmack) biorefinery is used as an example. Through this risk‐based methodology, technology risks as well as economic, environmental, and competitive benefits associated with different business model options are identified. This methodology leads to the development of a series of multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) panels to define a set of practical criteria suitable for a final MCDM for the identification of triticale‐based biorefinery alternatives leading to long‐term and sustainable business models. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Gamifying anatomy education
Authors: Ang Eng Tat , Chan Jia Min , Gopal Vik , Li Shia Ng
Published: August 2018

The objective of our research is to find out if gamification increases motivation for self‐directed learning (SDL) of human anatomy among year 1 medical students, and more importantly, their academic grades (n = 120). At the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, anatomy teaching has traditionally been delivered via didactic means. To encourage more active learning, suitable games (non‐digital) and the script concordance test were utilized to enhance the process. The flipped classroom approach was also introduced to further trigger active learning. In addition, the use of mobile apps (digital) was also initiated as supplements for SDL. Feedback was collected based on the previously validated PRO‐SDL scale. Results from the research yielded inconclusive evidence to support enhanced motivation among our students due to gamification (P > 0.05). However, it did help to encourage active participation for a “fun learning” experience supported by numerous positive comments. More importantly, the participant's continuous assessment (CA1, CA2, and CA3) and objective specific practical exam results were better than the cohort's average (P < 0.05), suggesting that enhanced meta‐cognition, and factual recall had taken place. While it is positive, there are some caveats to note with gamification, first and foremost, that it is tutor dependent. Taken together, gamification could represent a new paradigm for anatomy education, and also an opportune time to change the prevailing culture in the healthcare and education industry. Clin. Anat. 31:997–1005, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Subatomic kinematics supporting engineering education
Authors: Fazarinc Zvonko
Published: August 2018

This paper steps down into the interatomic space‐time domain where the steady state, boundary and dynamic phenomena are taking root yet are still obeying classical physics principles. By not offloading these phenomena to Schrödinger quantum mechanics and Maxwell electro‐magnetism it is hoped that many engineering practitioners and even high school students could become comfortable with boundary conditions of space time phenomena without resorting to the Partial Differential Calculus. The proposed method is based on calculus of differences in the plain algebraic domain with simultaneous spatial and temporal dependencies. As such these may be also welcomed by seekers of deeper understanding of some natural phenomena. The proposed approach is being tested on transmission lines with a variety of boundary conditions and is also employed to understanding the observed capacitive and inductive behavior.
RADIOGIS: Educational software for learning the calculation of radio electric coverage in wireless communication systems
Authors: Juan‐Llacer Leandro , Rodriguez José‐Víctor , Molina‐Garcia‐Pardo José‐María , Pascual‐García Juan , Martínez‐Inglés Mayte
Published: August 2018

The educational tool RADIOGIS for the calculation of radio electric coverage in wireless communication systems is presented and evaluated. Through such software, students can learn about the calculation of radio electric coverage while at the same time becoming familiar with the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) philosophy, since it is based on ArcGIS, from ESRI. Specific educational software has been used for years to supplement students’ learning in subjects where the planning of radio communication systems is treated. However, they are not usually based on GIS. On the other hand, most of the professional tools used for radio planning are based on GIS. Even though they incorporate the calculation of radio electric coverage as a key element for the planning and optimization of radio communication systems, they are not usually oriented toward teaching. The educational interest of RADIOGIS consists of the incorporation of five practice exercises with their corresponding instructions, which guide students in carrying them out. Sixty‐four students tested the tool for a total of 320 hr of experimentation. A survey was completed between two different groups of students, who were asked to rate RADIOGIS features, acceptance, and usability. In terms of teaching and learning in the calculation of radio electric coverage for the planning of radio communication systems and GIS, both groups claimed to have greater knowledge after working with the tool, especially students from the last courses.
2′‐O,4′‐C‐Methylene‐Bridged Nucleic Acids Stabilize Metal‐Mediated Base Pairing in a DNA Duplex
Authors: Nakagawa Osamu , Fujii Akane , Kishimoto Yuki , Nakatsuji Yusuke , Nozaki Natsumi , Obika Satoshi
Published: August 2018

The 2′‐O,4′‐C‐methylene‐bridged or locked nucleic acid (2′,4′‐BNA/LNA), with an N‐type sugar conformation, effectively improves duplex‐forming ability. 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA is widely used to improve gene knockdown in nucleic acid based therapies and is used in gene diagnosis. Metal‐mediated base pairs (MMBPs), such as thymine (T)‐HgII‐T and cytosine (C)‐AgI‐C have been developed and used as attractive tools in DNA nanotechnology studies. This study aimed to investigate the application of 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA in the field of MMBPs. 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA with 5‐methylcytosine stabilized the MMBP of C with AgI ions. Moreover, the 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA sugar significantly improved the duplex‐forming ability of the DNA/DNA complex, relative to that by the unmodified sugar. These results suggest that the sugar conformation is important for improving the stability of duplex‐containing MMBPs. The results indicate that 2′,4′‐BNA/LNA can be applied not only to nucleic acid based therapies, but also to MMBP technologies.
Past and future of Hebel Haus in Japan
Authors: Kuroki Kouji
Published: August 2018

It is 50 years since the AAC (Hebel) technology has been introduced in Japan. During this half century Hebel Haus™ have sold homes using the Hebel AAC in floors, walls, and ceilings. The total number of unit homes sold has now exceeded 250 000, and Hebel Haus homes are constructed in Japan at a rate of about 8 000 units every year. Japan is a country that frequently suffers from natural disasters. To protect customerś lives and properties Hebel Haus has developed a construction method that combines steel‐framed structure with AAC (Hebel) materials. With an integrated system from construction to sales and after‐sale services, renovation, and the second‐hand housing distribution, Hebel Haus has achieved the status of the top urban housing brand in Japan. Here we are going to present an outline of Hebel Haus history, marketing strategy, technologies, designs, and lifestyle proposals in Japan.
Autoclaved aerated concrete: Influence of heat storage capacity on thermal performance and thermal comfort
Authors: Schöndube Tim , Rashid Saif , Carrigan Svenja , Schoch Torsten , Kornadt Oliver
Published: August 2018

The heat storage capacity of building materials can have a significant influence on energy consumption and thermal comfort of buildings. This paper investigates the correlations between heat storage capacity and thermal performance. A test building made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) bricks was constructed in Kloster Lehnin/Emstal (Germany) with the same heat transition coefficient U for the walls, floor, and roof. The heating and ventilation of the building is controlled automatically. Xella and the Department of Building Physics/Low Energy Buildings of Technische Universität Kaiserslautern have been monitoring the test building since April 2017. The thermal performance and comfort of the AAC test building were investigated by measurements and simulations. The results were compared to simulations of a light weight building with the same geometry and heat transition coefficients U. The examinations showed that the heat storage capacity of the AAC has a positive influence on summer heat protection and thermal comfort of buildings in comparison to light weight constructions (LWC). In summer, the increased heat storage capacity of AAC compared to LWC improves thermal comfort. During the heating period, AAC buildings with a higher heat storage capacity in comparison to LWC offer the advantage of a slower cooling down of the indoor air temperature.
Selective fragmentation and the management of fish movement across anthropogenic barriers
Authors: Rahel Frank J. , McLaughlin Robert L.
Published: August 2018

Disruption of movement patterns due to alterations in habitat connectivity is a pervasive effect of humans on animal populations. In many terrestrial and aquatic systems, there is increasing tension between the need to simultaneously allow passage of some species while blocking the passage of other species. We explore the ecological basis for selective fragmentation of riverine systems where the need to restrict movements of invasive species conflicts with the need to allow passage of species of commercial, recreational, or conservation concern. We develop a trait‐based framework for selective fish passage based on understanding the types of movements displayed by fishes and the role of ecological filters in determining the spatial distributions of fishes. We then synthesize information on trait‐based mechanisms involved with these filters to create a multidimensional niche space based on attributes such as physical capabilities, body morphology, sensory capabilities, behavior, and movement phenology. Following this, we review how these mechanisms have been applied to achieve selective fish passage across anthropogenic barriers. To date, trap‐and‐sort or capture‐translocation efforts provide the best options for movement filters that are completely species selective, but these methods are hampered by the continual, high cost of manual sorting. Other less effective methods of selective passage risk collateral damage in the form of lower or higher than desired levels of passage. Fruitful areas for future work include using combinations of ecological and behavioral traits to passively segregate species; using taxon‐specific chemical or auditory cues to direct unwanted species away from passageways and into physical or ecological traps while attracting desirable species to passageways; and developing automated sorting mechanisms based on fish recognition systems. The trait‐based approach proposed for fish could serve as a template for selective fragmentation in other ecological systems.
Myocardial expression of the anaphylatoxin receptor C3aR is associated with cardiac inflammation and prognosis in patients with non‐ischaemic heart failure
Authors: Mueller Karin A.L. , Patzelt Johannes , Sauter Manuela , Maier Philipp , Gekeler Sarah , Klingel Karin , Kandolf Reinhard , Seizer Peter , Gawaz Meinrad , Geisler Tobias , Langer Harald F.
Published: August 2018

Aim

The aim of this study is to analyse the prognostic value of complement anaphylatoxin receptors in patients with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy undergoing endomyocardial biopsy.

Methods and results

In 102 patients (72.5% male patients, median age 54 years) with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy, myocardial expression of C3aR was assessed among other parameters. The primary study endpoint was a composite of death, heart transplantation, heart failure‐related re‐hospitalization, and deterioration of left ventricular ejection fraction within a mean follow‐up of 11.9 months. The number of cells, which stained positive for C3aR, was significantly increased in patients with inflammatory compared with non‐inflammatory cardiomyopathy (1.75 ± 0.31 cells in inflammatory cardiomyopathy vs. 0.94 ± 0.26 in non‐inflammatory cardiomyopathy, P = 0.049). Subsequently, positive expression for C3aR was judged based on a semi‐quantitative scoring system. Significantly, more patients with positive MHCII and CD68 expression showed an increased number of C3aR‐positive cells. C3aR expression based on this score was more pronounced in patients with human herpesvirus 6 viral genome detection. Kaplan–Meier curves illustrate that the C3aR‐negative group reached the primary endpoint significantly more often (mean follow‐up 11.9 months, log rank 5.963, P = 0.015). Lack of C3aR expression was a strong independent predictor for the primary endpoint in Cox regression analysis [hazard ratio 0.46 (0.26–0.82, P = 0.009)].

Conclusions

C3aR‐positive cells are found more often in patients with inflammatory cardiomyopathy. The relevance of C3aR‐positive cells in patients with non‐ischaemic cardiomyopathy should be further evaluated as potential predictors or modulators of adverse cardiac remodelling, the substrate of progressive heart failure.
Relationship between changing patient‐reported outcomes and subsequent clinical events in patients with chronic heart failure: insights from HF‐ACTION
Authors: Luo Nancy , O'Connor Christopher M. , Cooper Lauren B. , Sun Jie‐Lena , Coles Adrian , Reed Shelby D. , Whellan David J. , Piña Ileana L. , Kraus William E. , Mentz Robert J.
Published: August 2018

Aims

A 5‐point change in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) is commonly considered to be a clinically significant difference in health status in patients with heart failure. We evaluated how the magnitude of change relates to subsequent clinical outcomes.

Methods and results

Using data from the HF‐ACTION trial of exercise training in chronic heart failure (n = 2331), we used multivariable Cox regression with piecewise linear splines to examine the relationship between change in KCCQ overall summary score from baseline to 3 months (range 0–100; higher scores reflect better health status) and subsequent all‐cause mortality/hospitalization. Among 2038 patients with KCCQ data at the 3‐month visit, KCCQ scores increased from baseline by ≥5 points for 45%, scores decreased by ≥5 points for 23%, and scores changed by <5 points for the remaining 32% of patients. There was a non‐linear relationship between change in KCCQ and outcomes. Worsening health status was associated with increased all‐cause mortality/hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio 1.07 per 5‐point KCCQ decline; 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.12; P < 0.001). In contrast, improving health status, up to an 8‐point increase in KCCQ, was associated with decreased all‐cause mortality/hospitalization (adjusted hazard ratio 0.93 per 5‐point increase; 95% confidence interval 0.90–0.97; P < 0.001). Additional improvements in health status beyond an 8‐point increase in KCCQ was not associated with all‐cause death or hospitalization (P = 0.42).

Conclusion

In patients with heart failure, small changes in KCCQ are associated with changing future risk, but more research will be necessary to understand how different magnitudes of improving health status affect outcomes.