bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Saccharomyces, Non-Saccharomyces Yeasts and Malolactic Fermentation Strategies on Fermentation Kinetics and Flavor of Shiraz Wines
Authors: Du Plessis Heinrich , Du Toit Maret , Nieuwoudt Hélène , Van der Rijst Marieta , Kidd Martin , Jolly Neil
Published: December 2017

The use of non-Saccharomyces yeasts to improve complexity and diversify wine style is increasing; however, the interactions between non-Saccharomyces yeasts and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have not received much attention. This study investigated the interactions of seven non-Saccharomyces yeast strains of the genera Candida, Hanseniaspora, Lachancea, Metschnikowia and Torulaspora in combination with S. cerevisiae and three malolactic fermentation (MLF) strategies in a Shiraz winemaking trial. Standard oenological parameters, volatile composition and sensory profiles of wines were investigated. Wines produced with non-Saccharomyces yeasts had lower alcohol and glycerol levels than wines produced with S. cerevisiae only. Malolactic fermentation also completed faster in these wines. Wines produced with non-Saccharomyces yeasts differed chemically and sensorially from wines produced with S. cerevisiae only. The Candida zemplinina and the one L. thermotolerans isolate slightly inhibited LAB growth in wines that underwent simultaneous MLF. Malolactic fermentation strategy had a greater impact on sensory profiles than yeast treatment. Both yeast selection and MLF strategy had a significant effect on berry aroma, but MLF strategy also had a significant effect on acid balance and astringency of wines. Winemakers should apply the optimal yeast combination and MLF strategy to ensure fast completion of MLF and improve wine complexity.
Current Research on Non-Coding Ribonucleic Acid (RNA)
Authors: Wang Jing , Samuels David , Zhao Shilin , Xiang Yu , Zhao Ying-Yong , Guo Yan
Published: December 2017

Non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNA) has without a doubt captured the interest of biomedical researchers. The ability to screen the entire human genome with high-throughput sequencing technology has greatly enhanced the identification, annotation and prediction of the functionality of non-coding RNAs. In this review, we discuss the current landscape of non-coding RNA research and quantitative analysis. Non-coding RNA will be categorized into two major groups by size: long non-coding RNAs and small RNAs. In long non-coding RNA, we discuss regular long non-coding RNA, pseudogenes and circular RNA. In small RNA, we discuss miRNA, transfer RNA, piwi-interacting RNA, small nucleolar RNA, small nuclear RNA, Y RNA, single recognition particle RNA, and 7SK RNA. We elaborate on the origin, detection method, and potential association with disease, putative functional mechanisms, and public resources for these non-coding RNAs. We aim to provide readers with a complete overview of non-coding RNAs and incite additional interest in non-coding RNA research.
Pollution Emissions, Environmental Policy, and Marginal Abatement Costs
Authors: He Ling-Yun , Ou Jia-Jia
Published: December 2017

Pollution emissions impose serious social negative externalities, especially in terms of public health. To reduce pollution emissions cost-effectively, the marginal abatement costs (MACs) of pollution emissions must be determined. Since the industrial sectors are the essential pillars of China’s economic growth, as well as leading energy consumers and sulfur dioxide (SO2) emitters, estimating MACs of SO2 emissions at the industrial level can provide valuable information for all abatement efforts. This paper tries to address the critical and essential issue in pollution abatement: How do we determine the MACs of pollution emissions in China? This paper first quantifies the SO2 emission contribution of different industrial sectors in the Chinese economy by an Input-Output method and then estimates MACs of SO2 for industrial sectors at the national level, provincial level, and sectoral level by the shadow price theory. Our results show that six sectors (e.g., the Mining and Washing of Coal sector) should be covered in the Chinese pollution emission trading system. We have also found that the lowest SO2 shadow price is 2000 Yuan/ton at the national level, and that shadow prices should be set differently at the provincial level. Our empirical study has several important policy implications, e.g., the estimated MACs may be used as a pricing benchmark through emission allowance allocation. In this paper, the MACs of industrial sectors are calculated from the national, provincial and sectoral levels; therefore, we provide an efficient framework to track the complex relationship between sectors and provinces.
The Contribution of Oxidative Stress and Inflamm-Aging in Human and Equine Asthma
Authors: Bullone Michela , Lavoie Jean-Pierre
Published: December 2017

Aging is associated with a dysregulation of the immune system, leading to a general pro-inflammatory state of the organism, a process that has been named inflamm-aging. Oxidative stress has an important role in aging and in the regulation of immune responses, probably playing a role in the development of age-related diseases. The respiratory system function physiologically declines with the advancement of age. In elderly asthmatic patients, this may contribute to disease expression. In this review, we will focus on age-related changes affecting the immune system and in respiratory structure and function that could contribute to asthma occurrence, and/or clinical presentation in the elderly. Also, naturally occurring equine asthma will be discussed as a possible model for studying the importance of oxidative stress and immun-aging/inflamm-aging in humans.
Every OGT Is Illuminated … by Fluorescent and Synchrotron Lights
Authors: Miggiano Riccardo , Valenti Anna , Rossi Franca , Rizzi Menico , Perugino Giuseppe , Ciaramella Maria
Published: December 2017

O6-DNA-alkyl-guanine-DNA-alkyl-transferases (OGTs) are evolutionarily conserved, unique proteins that repair alkylation lesions in DNA in a single step reaction. Alkylating agents are environmental pollutants as well as by-products of cellular reactions, but are also very effective chemotherapeutic drugs. OGTs are major players in counteracting the effects of such agents, thus their action in turn affects genome integrity, survival of organisms under challenging conditions and response to chemotherapy. Numerous studies on OGTs from eukaryotes, bacteria and archaea have been reported, highlighting amazing features that make OGTs unique proteins in their reaction mechanism as well as post-reaction fate. This review reports recent functional and structural data on two prokaryotic OGTs, from the pathogenic bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis and the hyperthermophilic archaeon Sulfolobus solfataricus, respectively. These studies provided insight in the role of OGTs in the biology of these microorganisms, but also important hints useful to understand the general properties of this class of proteins.
Immortalization of Porcine 11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1-Transgenic Liver Cells Using SV40 Large T Antigen
Authors: Kang Hee Young , Choi Young-Kwon , Jeong Yeon Ik , Choi Kyung-Chul , Hyun Sang-Hwan , Hwang Woo-Suk , Jeung Eui-Bae
Published: December 2017

Cortisol is a steroid hormone essential to the maintenance of homeostasis that is released in response to stress and low blood glucose concentration. Cortisol is converted from cortisone by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1). It has been reported that too much cortisol or overexpression of HSD11B1 induces obesity and the insulin resistance that accompanies metabolic syndrome in rodent adipose tissue. In our previous study, HSD11B1-transgenic (TG) fibroblasts were established, and a porcine model was generated by SCNT using those fibroblasts. Hepatocytes overexpressing HSD11B1 were obtained from livers of this porcine model and cultured in vitro. However, the primary hepatocytes were found to have a short life span or low proliferation rate. To overcome these problems, the SV40 large T antigen was transduced into primary HSD11B1-TG hepatocytes, and those cells were immortalized. Immortalized HSD11B1-TG hepatocytes showed restored morphology, more rapid proliferation rate, and more expression of HSD11B1 than primary hepatocytes. As well, these cells kept the hepatic characteristics such as gluconeogenic response to cortisone and increased expression of hepatic makers. The immortalized HSD11B1-TG hepatocytes may be useful for studying traits and potential therapeutic drugs for treatment of metabolic disorders induced by overexpression of HSD11B1.
LinoSPAD: A Compact Linear SPAD Camera System with 64 FPGA-Based TDC Modules for Versatile 50 ps Resolution Time-Resolved Imaging
Authors: Burri Samuel , Bruschini Claudio , Charbon Edoardo
Published: December 2017

The LinoSPAD camera system is a modular, compact and versatile time-resolved camera system, combining a linear 256 high fill factor pixel CMOS SPAD (single-photon avalanche diode) sensor with an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) and USB 3.0 transceiver board. This modularization permits the separate optimization or exchange of either the sensor front-end or the processing back-end, depending on the intended application, thus removing the traditional compromise between optimal SPAD technology on the one hand and time-stamping technology on the other hand. The FPGA firmware implements an array of 64 TDCs (time-to-digital converters) with histogram accumulators and a correction module to reduce non-linearities. Each TDC is capable of processing over 80 million photon detections per second and has an average timing resolution better than 50 ps. This article presents a complete and detailed characterization, covering all aspects of the system, from the SPAD array light sensitivity and noise to TDC linearity, from hardware/firmware/software co-design to signal processing, e.g., non-linearity correction, from power consumption to performance non-uniformity.
Parametric Study of an Air Charged Franchot Engine with Novel Hot and Cold Isothermalizers
Authors: Daoud Jafar , Friedrich Daniel
Published: December 2017

The Stirling engine is an external combustion engine that uses heat exchangers to enhance the addition and removal of energy. This makes the engine power-dense but expensive, less efficient and complicated. In this contribution, the Stirling engine based on the Franchot engine has novel cylindrical fins working as isothermalizers to improve heat transfer without the complications of heat exchangers. Enhancing the power density by isothermalizing work spaces is compared to the bare cylinder optimized by varying the phase angle. The theoretical analysis shows that both the adiabatic and isothermal fins increase the power and efficiency, achieving the Curzon and Ahlborn efficiency at the maximum power point. In comparison to the phase angle method, the finned engine resulted in much lower gas mass flow rate, which leads to a reduction in the regenerator pumping and enthalpy losses. Thus, the Stirling engine has the potential to be simple, cheap, efficient and power-dense, and thus can be used effectively for different applications.
The Potential of a Novel Class of EPAC-Selective Agonists to Combat Cardiovascular Inflammation
Authors: Barker Graeme , Parnell Euan , Van Basten Boy , Buist Hanna , Adams David , Yarwood Stephen
Published: December 2017

The cyclic 3′,5′-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) sensor enzyme, EPAC1, is a candidate drug target in vascular endothelial cells (VECs) due to its ability to attenuate proinflammatory cytokine signalling normally associated with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including atherosclerosis. This is through the EPAC1-dependent induction of the suppressor of cytokine signalling gene, SOCS3, which targets inflammatory signalling proteins for ubiquitinylation and destruction by the proteosome. Given this important role for the EPAC1/SOCS3 signalling axis, we have used high throughput screening (HTS) to identify small molecule EPAC1 regulators and have recently isolated the first known non-cyclic nucleotide (NCN) EPAC1 agonist, I942. I942 therefore represents the first in class, isoform selective EPAC1 activator, with the potential to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokine signalling with a reduced risk of side effects associated with general cAMP-elevating agents that activate multiple response pathways. The development of augmented I942 analogues may therefore provide improved research tools to validate EPAC1 as a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of chronic inflammation associated with deadly CVDs.
The Influence of Applied Blood Flow Restriction Cuffs on Kinematics of Submaximal Sprinting
Authors: Nagahara Ryu , Abe Takashi
Published: December 2017

It is unknown how sports activity combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) on the limbs can impact the exercising limb’s motion. We aimed to compare the lower limb kinematics between submaximal sprinting with and without BFR cuffs (i.e., BFR and normal conditions) when they were applied on the upper thigh. Ten collegiate sprinters performed five 45-m submaximal sprint trials under normal and BFR conditions. The BFR was applied to both legs at the proximal portion of the thigh utilizing elastic cuffs. The cuff pressure was set at approximately 60% of estimated arterial occlusion pressure. Spatiotemporal and hip and knee joint kinematic variables for both legs during submaximal sprinting were obtained using a motion capture system. The results showed, for spatiotemporal variables, no significant difference (p > 0.653), a trivial or small effect size (0.050–0.205), and high correlation coefficients (r > 0.923) between conditions. Moreover, for the joint angles and angular velocities, no significant difference (p > 0.244) and a trivial or small effect size (0.003–0.538), as well as significant correlations (r >0.684) were found between conditions. These results indicate that, in general, there is probably no influence of BFR cuffs on the upper thigh on running kinematics.
Pearl-Chain Formation of Discontinuous Carbon Fiber under an Electrical Field
Authors: Daniel Justin , Ju Licheng , Yang Jinshan , Sun Xiangzhen , Gupta Nikhil , Schrand Amanda , Xu Chengying
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical derivation on aligning discontinuous carbon fiber with an applied electric field, and prove the theory with experiment. A principle with regard to the occurrence of carbon fiber alignment is presented after an introduction of the electromechanical quantities of dielectrics. Based on this principle, an estimation of the polarizability tensor is employed to calculate the required electric field to achieve fiber alignment in liquid solution (e.g., water, resin, etc.). Individual carbon fiber is modeled as a polarizable dielectric cylinder in liquid resin and its motion under direct current (DC) electrical field is decomposed into a polarization effect and rotation effect. A value of 20.12 V/mm is required to align short carbon fibers (0.15 mm) long in liquid resin and is experimentally validated. Finally, an expression to include weight percentage as a means of controlling pearl-chain formation is derived to change the composite’s electrical conductivity.
Alkaline Materials and Regenerative Endodontics: A Review
Authors: Kahler Bill , Chugal Nadia , Lin Louis
Published: December 2017

Periapical health is the primary goal of endodontic treatment in mature and immature teeth. In addition, the goals of treatment of immature teeth with arrested root development include root growth to length and maturation of the apex, as well as thickening of the canal wall. These goals are valid for immature teeth that have been subjected to trauma and dental caries or that are the result of developmental anomalies that expose the tooth to the risk of pulp necrosis and consequently result in the cessation of root maturation. Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) have been described as a “paradigm shift” in the treatment of immature teeth with pulp necrosis and underdeveloped roots, as there is the potential for further root maturation and return of vitality. Treatment with REPs is advocated as the treatment of choice for immature teeth with pulp necrosis. REP protocols involve the use of alkaline biomaterials, primarily sodium hypochlorite, calcium hydroxide, mineral trioxide aggregates and Biodentine, and are the essential components of a successful treatment regimen.
Identification, In Vitro Testing and Molecular Docking Studies of Microginins’ Mechanism of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition
Authors: Paiva Fernanda , Ferreira Glaucio , Trossini Gustavo , Pinto Ernani
Published: December 2017

Cyanobacteria are able to produce a wide range of secondary metabolites, including toxins and protease inhibitors, with diverse biological activities. Microginins are small linear peptides biosynthesized by cyanobacteria species that act against proteases. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify microginins produced by the LTPNA08 strain of Microcystis aeruginosa, as well as to verify their potential to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE; EC. 3.4.15.1) using in vitro and in silico methods. The fractionation of cyanobacterial extracts was performed by liquid chromatography and the presence of microginins was monitored by both LC-MS and an ACE inhibition assay. Enzyme inhibition was assayed by ACE with hippuryl-histidyl-leucine as the substrate; monitoring of hippuric acid was performed by HPLC-DAD. Isolated microginins were confirmed by mass spectrometry and were used to carry out the enzymatic assay. Molecular docking was used to evaluate microginin 770 (MG 770) and captopril (positive control), in order to predict similar binding interactions and determine the inhibitory action of ACE. The enzyme assay confirmed that MG 770 can efficiently inhibit ACE, with an IC50 equivalent to other microginins. MG 770 presented with comparable interactions with ACE, having features in common with commercial inhibitors such as captopril and enalaprilate, which are frequently used in the treatment of hypertension in humans.
Anti-Candida Activity of Bursera morelensis Ramirez Essential Oil and Two Compounds, α-Pinene and γ-Terpinene—An In Vitro Study
Authors: Rivera-Yañez C. , Terrazas L. , Jimenez-Estrada Manuel , Campos Jorge , Flores-Ortiz Cesar , Hernandez Luis , Cruz-Sanchez Tonatiuh , Garrido-Fariña German , Rodriguez-Monroy Marco , Canales-Martinez M.
Published: December 2017

The candidiasis caused by C. albicans is a public health problem. The abuse of antifungals has contributed to the development of resistance. B. morelensis has demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal activities. In this work the activity of the essential oil of B. morelensis was evaluated and for its two pure compounds with analysis of the different mechanisms of pathogenesis important for C. albicans. The essential oil was obtained by the hydro-distillation method and analyzed using GC–MS. The anti-Candida activity was compared between to essential oil, α-Pinene and γ-Terpinene. GC–MS of the essential oil demonstrated the presence of 13 compounds. The essential oil showed antifungal activity against four C. albicans strains. The most sensitive strain was C. albicans 14065 (MFC 2.0 mg/mL and MIC50 0.125 mg/mL) with α-Pinene and γ-Terpinene having MFCs of 4.0 and 16.0 mg/mL respectively. The essential oil inhibited the growth of the germ tube in 87.94% (8.0 mg/mL). Furthermore, it was observed that the essential oil diminishes the transcription of the gene INT1. This work provides evidence that confirms the anti-Candida activity of the B. morelensis essential oil and its effect on the growth of the germ tube and transcription of the gene INT1.
Surfactant Effects on Structure and Mechanical Properties of Ultrahigh-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene/Layered Silicate Composites
Authors: Nikiforov Leonid , Okhlopkova Tatinana , Kapitonova Iullia , Sleptsova Sardana , Okhlopkova Aitalina , Shim Ee , Cho Jin-Ho
Published: December 2017

In this study, the reinforcement of ultrahigh-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) with biotite was investigated. The biotite filler was mechanically activated with different dry surfactants to improve its compatibility with UHMWPE and decrease agglomeration among biotite particles. Alkyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (ADBAC) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) were selected as cationic surfactants. The tensile strength of composites containing 1 wt % of CTAB-treated biotite was increased by 30% relative to those with untreated biotite, but was unchanged with ADBAC treatment of the same biotite content. The stereochemistry of the surfactant may be critical to the composite structure and mechanical properties of the material. The stereochemistry of CTAB was preferable to that of ADBAC in enhancing mechanical properties because the stereochemistry of ADBAC impedes favorable interactions with the biotite surface during mechanical activation.
Composition and Bioactivity of Essential Oil from Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck ‘Mato Peiyu’ Leaf
Authors: Tsai Mei-Lin , Lin Cai-Di , Khoo Keh , Wang Mei-Ying , Kuan Tsang-Kuei , Lin Wei-Chao , Zhang Ya-Nan , Wang Ya-Ying
Published: December 2017

‘Mato Peiyu’ pomelo (Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck ‘Mato Peiyu’) leaves from pruning are currently an agricultural waste. The aim of this study was to isolate essential oils from these leaves through steam distillation (SD) and solvent-free microwave extraction (SFME) and to evaluate their applicability to skin care by analyzing their antimicrobial, antioxidant (diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging assay, β-carotene/linoleic acid assay, and nitric oxide scavenging assay), anti-inflammatory (5-lipoxygenase inhibition assay), and antityrosinase activities. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry results indicated that the main components of ‘Mato Peiyu’ leaf essential oils were citronellal and citronellol, with a total percentage of 50.71% and 59.82% for SD and SFME, respectively. The highest bioactivity among all assays was obtained for 5-lipoxygenase inhibition, with an IC50 value of 0.034% (v/v). The MIC90 of the antimicrobial activity of essential oils against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans ranged from 0.086% to 0.121% (v/v). Citronellal and citronellol were the main contributors, accounting for at least 54.58% of the essential oil’s bioactivity. This paper is the first to report the compositions and bioactivities of ‘Mato Peiyu’ leaf essential oil, and the results imply that the pomelo leaf essential oil may be applied in skin care.
Bioactive Steroids and Saponins of the Genus Trillium
Authors: Ur Rahman Shafiq , Ismail Muhammad , Khurram Muhammad , Ullah Irfan , Rabbi Fazle , Iriti Marcello
Published: December 2017

The species of the genus Trillium (Melanthiaceae alt. Trilliaceae) include perennial herbs with characteristic rhizomes mainly distributed in Asia and North America. Steroids and saponins are the main classes of phytochemicals present in these plants. This review summarizes and discusses the current knowledge on their chemistry, as well as the in vitro and in vivo studies carried out on the extracts, fractions and isolated pure compounds from the different species belonging to this genus, focusing on core biological properties, i.e., cytotoxic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities.
Phloem-Conducting Cells in Haustoria of the Root-Parasitic Plant Phelipanche aegyptiaca Retain Nuclei and Are Not Mature Sieve Elements
Authors: Ekawa Minako , Aoki Koh
Published: December 2017

Phelipanche aegyptiaca parasitizes a wide range of plants, including important crops, and causes serious damage to their production. P. aegyptiaca develops a specialized intrusive organ called a haustorium that establishes connections to the host’s xylem and phloem. In parallel with the development of xylem vessels, the differentiation of phloem-conducting cells has been demonstrated by the translocation of symplasmic tracers from the host to the parasite. However, it is unclear yet whether haustorial phloem-conducting cells are sieve elements. In this study, we identified phloem-conducting cells in haustoria by the host-to-parasite translocation of green fluorescent protein (GFP) from AtSUC2pro::GFP tomato sieve tubes. Haustorial GFP-conducting cells contained nuclei but not callose-rich sieve plates, indicating that phloem-conducting cells in haustoria differ from conventional sieve elements. To ascertain why the nuclei were not degenerated, expression of the P. aegyptiaca homologs NAC-domain containing transcription factor (NAC45), NAC45/86-dependent exonuclease-domain protein 1 (NEN1), and NEN4 was examined. However, these genes were more highly expressed in the haustorium than in tubercle protrusion, implying that nuclear degradation in haustoria may not be exclusively controlled by the NAC45/86-NEN regulatory pathway. Our results also suggest that the formation of plasmodesmata with large size exclusion limits is independent of nuclear degradation and callose deposition.
A Novel Pixel-Level Image Matching Method for Mars Express HRSC Linear Pushbroom Imagery Using Approximate Orthophotos
Authors: Geng Xun , Xu Qing , Xing Shuai , Lan Chaozhen , Xu Junyi
Published: December 2017

Mars topographic data, such as digital orthophoto maps (DOMs) and digital elevation models (DEMs) are essential to planetary science and exploration missions. The main objective of our study is to generate a higher resolution DEM using the Mars Express (MEX) High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC). This paper presents a novel pixel-level image matching method for HRSC linear pushbroom imagery. We suggest that image matching firstly be carried out on the approximate orthophotos. Then, the matched points are converted to the original images for forward intersection. The proposed method adopts some practical strategies such as hierarchical image matching and normalized cross-correlation (NCC). The characteristic strategies are: (1) the generation of a DEM and a DOM at each pyramid level; (2) the use of the generated DEM at the current pyramid level as reference data to generate approximate orthophotos at the next pyramid level; and (3) the use of the ground point coordinates of orthophotos to estimate the approximate positions of conjugate points. Hence, the refined DEM is used in the image rectification process, and pixel coordinate displacements of conjugate points on the approximate orthophotos will become smaller and smaller. Four experimental datasets acquired by the HRSC were used to verify the proposed method. The generated DEM was compared with the HRSC Level-4 DEM product. Experimental results demonstrate that an accurate and precise Mars DEM can be generated with the proposed method. The approximate positions of the conjugate points can be estimated with an accuracy of three pixels at the original image resolution level. Though slight systematic errors of about two pixels were observed, the generated DEM results show good consistency with the HRSC Level-4 DEM.
Dynamic Modelling of Embeddable Piezoceramic Transducers
Authors: Huo Linsheng , Li Xu , Li Hongnan , Wang Zhijie , Song Gangbing
Published: December 2017

Embedded Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) transducers have been widely used in research related to monitoring the health status of concrete structures. This paper presents a dynamic model of an embeddable PZT transducer with a waterproof layer and a protecting layer. The proposed model is verified by finite-element method (FEM). Based on the proposed model, the factors influencing the dynamic property of the embeddable PZT transducers, which include the material and thickness of the protecting layer, the material and thickness of the waterproof layer, and the thickness of the PZT, are analyzed. These analyses are further validated by a series of dynamic stress transfer experiments on embeddable PZT transducers. The results show that the excitation frequency can significantly affect the stress transfer of the PZT transducer in terms of both amplitude and signal phase. The natural frequency in the poling direction for the PZT transducer is affected by the material properties and the thickness of the waterproof and protecting layers. The studies in this paper will provide a scientific basis to design embeddable PZT transducers with special functions.
Analysis of Fresnel Zone Plates Focusing Dependence on Operating Frequency
Authors: Fuster José , Candelas Pilar , Castiñeira-Ibáñez Sergio , Pérez-López Sergio , Rubio Constanza
Published: December 2017

The focusing properties of Fresnel Zone Plates (FZPs) against frequency are analyzed in this work. It is shown that the FZP focal length depends almost linearly on the operating frequency. Focal depth and focal distortion are also considered, establishing a limit on the frequency span at which the operating frequency can be shifted. An underwater FZP ultrasound focusing system is demonstrated, and experimental results agree with the theoretical analysis and simulations.
A 45 nm Stacked CMOS Image Sensor Process Technology for Submicron Pixel
Authors: Takahashi Seiji , Huang Yi-Min , Sze Jhy-Jyi , Wu Tung-Ting , Guo Fu-Sheng , Hsu Wei-Cheng , Tseng Tung-Hsiung , Liao King , Kuo Chin-Chia , Chen Tzu-Hsiang , Chiang Wei-Chieh , Chuang Chun-Hao , Chou Keng-Yu , Chung Chi-Hsien , Chou Kuo-Yu , Tseng Chien-Hsien , Wang Chuan-Joung , Yaung Dun-Nien
Published: December 2017

A submicron pixel’s light and dark performance were studied by experiment and simulation. An advanced node technology incorporated with a stacked CMOS image sensor (CIS) is promising in that it may enhance performance. In this work, we demonstrated a low dark current of 3.2 e−/s at 60 °C, an ultra-low read noise of 0.90 e−·rms, a high full well capacity (FWC) of 4100 e−, and blooming of 0.5% in 0.9 μm pixels with a pixel supply voltage of 2.8 V. In addition, the simulation study result of 0.8 μm pixels is discussed.
Monitoring Traffic Information with a Developed Acceleration Sensing Node
Authors: Ye Zhoujing , Wang Linbing , Xu Wen , Gao Zhifei , Yan Guannan
Published: December 2017

In this paper, an acceleration sensing node for pavement vibration was developed to monitor traffic information, including vehicle speed, vehicle types, and traffic flow, where a hardware design with low energy consumption and node encapsulation could be accomplished. The service performance of the sensing node was evaluated, by methods including waterproof test, compression test, sensing performance analysis, and comparison test. The results demonstrate that the sensing node is low in energy consumption, high in strength, IPX8 waterproof, and high in sensitivity and resolution. These characteristics can be applied to practical road environments. Two sensing nodes were spaced apart in the direction of travelling. In the experiment, three types of vehicles passed by the monitoring points at several different speeds and values of d (the distance between the sensor and the nearest tire center line). Based on cross-correlation with kernel pre-smoothing, a calculation method was applied to process the raw data. New algorithms for traffic flow, speed, and axle length were proposed. Finally, the effects of vehicle speed, vehicle weight, and d value on acceleration amplitude were statistically evaluated. It was found that the acceleration sensing node can be used for traffic flow, vehicle speed, and other types of monitoring.
Dynamic Spectrum Access for Internet of Things Service in Cognitive Radio-Enabled LPWANs
Authors: Moon Bongkyo
Published: December 2017

In this paper, we focus on a dynamic spectrum access strategy for Internet of Things (IoT) applications in two types of radio systems: cellular networks and cognitive radio-enabled low power wide area networks (CR-LPWANs). The spectrum channel contention between the licensed cellular networks and the unlicensed CR-LPWANs, which work with them, only takes place within the cellular radio spectrum range. Our aim is to maximize the spectrum capacity for the unlicensed users while ensuring that it never interferes with the licensed network. Therefore, in this paper we propose a dynamic spectrum access strategy for CR-LPWANs operating in both licensed and unlicensed bands. The simulation and the numerical analysis by using a matrix geometric approach for the strategy are presented. Finally, we obtain the blocking probability of the licensed users, the mean dwell time of the unlicensed user, and the total carried traffic and combined service quality for the licensed and unlicensed users. The results show that the proposed strategy can maximize the spectrum capacity for the unlicensed users using IoT applications as well as keep the service quality of the licensed users independent of them.
A Social Network Analysis of Tourist Movement Patterns in Blogs: Korean Backpackers in Europe
Authors: Chung Hee Chung , Chung Namho , Nam Yoonjae
Published: December 2017

Given recent developments in information and communication technology, the number of individual tourists enjoying free travel without the advice of travel agencies is increasing. Therefore, such tourists can visit more tourist destinations and create more complex movement patterns than mass tourists. These tourist movement patterns are a key factor in understanding tourist behavior and they contain various information that is important for tourism marketers. In this vein, this study aims to investigate tourist movement patterns in Europe. We acquired 122 data points from posts on the NAVER blog, which is the most famous social media platform in Korea. These data were transformed into matrix data for social network analysis and analyzed for centrality. The results suggest that Korean backpackers in Europe tend to enter Europe through London and Paris. Venezia and Firenze are also key cities.
Cohomology Characterizations of Diagonal Non-Abelian Extensions of Regular Hom-Lie Algebras
Authors: Song Lina , Tang Rong
Published: December 2017

In this paper, first we show that under the assumption of the center of h being zero, diagonal non-abelian extensions of a regular Hom-Lie algebra g by a regular Hom-Lie algebra h are in one-to-one correspondence with Hom-Lie algebra morphisms from g to Out ( h ) . Then for a general Hom-Lie algebra morphism from g to Out ( h ) , we construct a cohomology class as the obstruction of existence of a non-abelian extension that induces the given Hom-Lie algebra morphism.
Possible missed opportunities for diagnosing colorectal cancer in Dutch primary care: a multimethods approach
Authors: Brandenbarg Daan , Groenhof Feikje , Siewers Ilse M , van der Voort Anna , Walter Fiona M , Berendsen Annette J
Published: December 2017

Background

Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is important to achieve better survival. Discriminating symptoms suggestive of CRC from benign conditions is a challenge for GPs because most known ‘alarm symptoms’ have low predictive values.

Aim

To further understand the diagnostic process of CRC in general practice in terms of healthcare use and by analysing factors related to diagnostic intervals.

Design and setting

A multimethod approach comprising a historical, prospective registry study and qualitative content analysis.

Method

Healthcare use in the year before referral for colonoscopy was compared between patients diagnosed with CRC and an age-, sex,- and GP-matched control population. Qualitative content analysis was performed on free texts in electronic patient records from a purposive sample of patients with CRC.

Results

Patients with CRC (n = 287) had 41% (25–59%) more face-to-face contacts and 21% (7–37%) more medication prescriptions than controls (n = 828). Forty-six per cent of patients with CRC had two or more contacts for digestive reasons, compared with 12.2% of controls, more often for symptoms than diagnoses. From qualitative analysis two themes emerged: ‘possible missed diagnostic opportunities’ and ‘improvements in diagnostic process unlikely’. Possible missed diagnostic opportunities were related to patients waiting before presenting symptoms, doctors attributing symptoms to comorbid conditions or medication use, or doctors sticking to an initial diagnosis.

Conclusion

Fewer missed diagnostic opportunities might occur if GPs are aware of pitfalls in diagnosing CRC: the assumption that symptoms are caused by comorbid conditions or medication, or relating complaints to pre-existing medical conditions. GPs also need to be aware that repeated digestive complaints warrant rethinking an earlier diagnosis.
Land, Family, and Chinese-Ness: The Influence of Chinese Values on the Study of Tourism
Authors: Zhang Yunzi , Cai Liping
Published: December 2017

China has become a major world destination and tourist-generating country. Despite flourishing literature on Chinese tourism, the analysis of China's society and value has not become an integral part of the research body. By reviewing the works of Liang Shuming and Fei Xiaotong, two
great Chinese intellectuals, on the origin and constitution of the Chinese value system, this article aims to provide implications for Chinese tourism research based on their insights. The article posits that applying the indigenous culture in understanding a tourist population or destination
is essential in pushing the boundaries of tourism research, particularly in this globalized environment with the diffusion of values in multilateral directions. In connecting the case of China to the study of tourists from emerging regions, the article questions the complete appropriation
of the "emerging market" concept into tourism research. It argues that the term suggests a comparative notion that demeans the nature of a civilization that is non-Western. It calls for research approaches that are indiscriminate and true to the community of interest.
Consecutive hydrazino-Ugi-azide reactions: synthesis of acylhydrazines bearing 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles
Authors: Barreto Angélica de Fátima S , Santos Veronica Alves dos , Andrade Carlos Kleber Z
Published: December 2017

Isocyanide-based multicomponent reactions (IMCRs) allow the construction of relatively complex molecules through a one-pot synthesis. The combination of IMCRs in a consecutive or sequential fashion further extends the complexity of the molecules obtained. Herein, we report the efficient application of this approach to the synthesis of acylhydrazines bearing 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles. Our strategy was accomplished in only three steps: first, a one-pot hydrazino-Ugi-azide four-component reaction; second a hydrazinolysis and finally an additional hydrazino-Ugi-azide reaction. This sequence provides the title compounds in moderate to excellent yields. The products synthesized herein contain functional groups within their structures that can be easily modified to obtain new acylhydrazino 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles.
Neutrinos from Beta Processes in a Presupernova: Probing the Isotopic Evolution of a Massive Star
Authors: Patton Kelly M. , Lunardini Cecilia , Farmer Robert J. , Timmes F. X.
Published: December 2017

We present a new calculation of the neutrino flux received at Earth from a massive star in the ∼24 hr of evolution prior to its explosion as a supernova (presupernova). Using the stellar evolution code MESA, the neutrino emissivity in each flavor is calculated at many radial zones and time steps. In addition to thermal processes, neutrino production via beta processes is modeled in detail, using a network of 204 isotopes. We find that the total produced

flux has a high-energy spectrum tail, at

, which is mostly due to decay and electron capture on isotopes with

. In a tentative window of observability of

and

hr pre-collapse, the contribution of beta processes to the

flux is at the level of ∼90%. For a star at D = 1 kpc distance, a 17 kt liquid scintillator detector would typically observe several tens of events from a presupernova, of which up to ∼30% is due to beta processes. These processes dominate the signal at a liquid argon detector, thus greatly enhancing its sensitivity to a presupernova.
Variable Stars and Stellar Populations in Andromeda XXVII. IV. An Off-centered, Disrupted Galaxy*
Authors: Cusano Felice , Garofalo Alessia , Clementini Gisella , Cignoni Michele , Muraveva Tatiana , Tessicini Gianni , Testa Vincenzo , Paris Diego , Federici Luciana , Marconi Marcella , Ripepi Vincenzo , Musella Ilaria
Published: December 2017

We present B and V time-series photometry of the M31 satellite galaxy Andromeda XXVII (And XXVII) that we observed with the Large Binocular Cameras of the Large Binocular Telescope. In the field of And XXVII we have discovered a total of 90 variables: 89 RR Lyrae stars and 1 Anomalous Cepheid. The average period of the fundamental mode RR Lyrae stars (RRab)

(σ = 0.05 day) and the period–amplitude diagram place And XXVII in the class of Oosterhoff I/Intermediate objects. Combining information from the color–magnitude diagram (CMD) and the variable stars, we find evidence for a single old and metal-poor stellar population with [Fe/H] ∼ −1.8 dex and t ∼ 13 Gyr in And XXVII. The spatial distributions of RR Lyrae and red giant branch (RGB) stars give clear indication that And XXVII is a completely disrupted system. This is also supported by the spread observed along the line of sight in the distance to the RR Lyrae stars. The highest concentration of RGB and RR Lyrae stars is found in a circular area of 4 arcmin in radius, centered about 0.°2 in the southeast direction from Richardson et al.’s center coordinates of And XXVII. The CMD of this region is well-defined, with a prominent RGB and 15 RR Lyrae stars (out of the 18 found in the region) tracing a very tight horizontal branch at

σ = 0.06 mag (average over 15 stars). We show that And XXVII is a strong candidate building block of the M31 halo.
Efficient Radiative Transfer for Dynamically Evolving Stratified Atmospheres*
Authors: Judge Philip G.
Published: December 2017

We present a fast multi-level and multi-atom non-local thermodynamic equilibrium radiative transfer method for dynamically evolving stratified atmospheres, such as the solar atmosphere. The preconditioning method of Rybicki & Hummer (RH92) is adopted. But, pressed for the need of speed and stability, a “second-order escape probability” scheme is implemented within the framework of the RH92 method, in which frequency- and angle-integrals are carried out analytically. While minimizing the computational work needed, this comes at the expense of numerical accuracy. The iteration scheme is local, the formal solutions for the intensities are the only non-local component. At present the methods have been coded for vertical transport, applicable to atmospheres that are highly stratified. The probabilistic method seems adequately fast, stable, and sufficiently accurate for exploring dynamical interactions between the evolving MHD atmosphere and radiation using current computer hardware. Current 2D and 3D dynamics codes do not include this interaction as consistently as the current method does. The solutions generated may ultimately serve as initial conditions for dynamical calculations including full 3D radiative transfer.
The Direct Relation between the Duration of Magnetic Reconnection and the Evolution of GOES Light Curves in Solar Flares
Authors: Reep Jeffrey W. , Toriumi Shin
Published: December 2017

GOES soft X-ray light curves are used to measure the timing and duration of solar flare emission. The timing and duration of the magnetic reconnection and subsequent energy release that drive solar flares are unknown, though the light curves are presumably related. It is therefore critical to understand the physics that connect the two: how does the timescale of reconnection produce an observed GOES light curve? In this work, we model the formation and expansion of an arcade of loops with a hydrodynamic model, which we then use to synthesize GOES light curves. We calculate the FWHM and the e-folding decay time of the light curves and compare them to the separation of the centroids of the two ribbons that the arcade spans, which is representative of the size scale of the loops. We reproduce a linear relation between the two, as found observationally in previous work. We show that this demonstrates a direct connection between the duration of energy release and the evolution of these light curves. We also show that the cooling processes of individual loops comprising the flare arcade directly affect the measured timescales. From the clear consistency between the observed and modeled linearity, we conclude that the primary factors that control the flare timescales are the duration of reconnection and the loop lengths.
The O vi Mystery: Mismatch between X-Ray and UV Column Densities
Authors: Mathur S. , Nicastro F. , Gupta A. , Krongold Y. , McLaughlin B. M. , Brickhouse N. , Pradhan A.
Published: December 2017

The UV spectra of Galactic and extragalactic sightlines often show O vi absorption lines at a range of redshifts, and from a variety of sources from the Galactic circumgalactic medium to active galactic nuclei (AGN) outflows. Inner shell O vi absorption is also observed in X-ray spectra (at

Å), but the column density inferred from the X-ray line was consistently larger than that from the UV line. Here we present a solution to this discrepancy for the z = 0 systems. The O ii Kβ line

at 562.40 eV (≡22.04 Å) is blended with the O vi Kα line in X-ray spectra. We estimate the strength of this O ii line in two different ways, and show that in most cases the O ii line accounts for the entire blended line. The small amount of O vi equivalent width present in some cases has column density entirely consistent with the UV value. This solution to the O vi discrepancy, however, does not apply to high column-density systems like AGN outflows. We discuss other possible causes to explain their UV/X-ray mismatch. The O vi and O ii lines will be resolved by gratings on board the proposed mission Arcus and the concept mission Lynx, and would allow the detection of weak O vi lines not just at z = 0, but also at higher redshift.
A new species of Voria Robineau-Desvoidy (Diptera: Tachinidae) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste in northwestern Costa Rica
Authors: Fleming AJ , Wood D. Monty , Smith M. Alex , Dapkey Tanya , Hallwachs Winnie , Janzen Daniel
Published: December 2017

We describe a new species in the genus Voria Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 (Diptera: Tachinidae: Voriini) from Area de Conservación Guanacaste (ACG) in northwestern Costa Rica. It was reared as part of an ongoing inventory of wild-caught caterpillars spanning a variety of moth and butterfly families (Lepidoptera). Our study provides a concise description of the new species using morphology, life history, molecular data, and photographic documentation. In addition to the new species, we provide a diagnosis of the genus as well as new data relating to host use.

The following new species of Voria is described: Voria erasmocoronadoi Fleming & Wood sp. n.

The following are proposed by Fleming & Wood as new synonyms of Voria: Xenoplagia Townsend, 1914 syn. n., Hystricovoria Townsend, 1928 syn. n., Afrovoria Curran, 1938 syn. n., and Anavoria Mesnil, 1953 syn. n., and Itavoria Townsend, 1931 syn. n.

The following new combinations are proposed as a result of the new synonymies: Voria bakeri (Townsend, 1928), comb. n. and Voria setosa (Townsend, 1914), comb. n. The authors also propose Voria pollyclari (Rocha-e-Silva, Lopes & Della Lucia, 1999), comb. n. based on the morphology of the holotype.