bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ formed Fe–N doped metal organic framework@carbon nanotubes/graphene hybrids for a rechargeable Zn–air battery
Authors: Yang Wenxiu , Zhang Yelong , Liu Xiangjian , Chen Lulu , Jia Jianbo
Published: November 2017

An in situ route to produce Fe–N doped metal organic framework@carbon nanotubes/graphene hybrids was proposed. The composite exhibits exceptionally high performances in rechargeable Zn–air batteries.
pH-Dependent spin state population and 19F NMR chemical shift via remote ligand protonation in an iron(ii) complex
Authors: Gaudette Alexandra I. , Thorarinsdottir Agnes E. , Harris T. David
Published: November 2017

An FeII complex that features a pH-dependent spin state population and 19F chemical shift, by virtue of a variable ligand protonation state, is described.
Correction: A metal-free fluorescence turn-on molecular probe for detection of nucleoside triphosphates
Authors: Maity Debabrata , Li Mao , Ehlers Martin , Gigante Alba , Schmuck Carsten
Published: November 2017

Correction for ‘A metal-free fluorescence turn-on molecular probe for detection of nucleoside triphosphates’ by Debabrata Maity et al., Chem. Commun., 2017, 53, 208–211.
Solvent effects on excitation energies obtained using the state-specific TD-DFT method with a polarizable continuum model based on constrained equilibrium thermodynamics
Authors: Bi Ting-Jun , Xu Long-Kun , Wang Fan , Ming Mei-Jun , Li Xiang-Yuan
Published: November 2017

Nonequilibrium solvation effects need to be treated properly in the study of electronic absorption processes of solutes since solvent polarization is not in equilibrium with the excited-state charge density of the solute.
A hybrid functional study of native point defects in Cu2SnS3: implications for reducing carrier recombination
Authors: Guan Pin-Wen , Liu Zi-Kui
Published: November 2017

Study of defect chemistry in the earth-abundant solar material Cu2SnS3 reveals abundant deep centers causing recombination under typical experimental conditions.
Control of electro-chemical processes using energy harvesting materials and devices
Authors: Zhang Yan , Xie Mengying , Adamaki Vana , Khanbareh Hamideh , Bowen Chris R.
Published: November 2017

A detailed overview of pyro-electric, piezo-electric, tribo-electric, flexo-electric thermo-electric and photovoltaic charge generation mechanisms which are used to control electro-chemical reactions.
Self-assembled core–shell-corona multifunctional non-viral vector with AIE property for efficient hepatocyte-targeting gene delivery
Authors: Wang Bing , Chen Ping , Zhang Ji , Chen Xiao-Chuan , Liu Yan-Hong , Huang Zheng , Yu Qing-Ying , Zhang Ju-Hui , Zhang Wei , Wei Xi , Yu Xiao-Qi
Published: November 2017

Core–shell-corona multifunctional nanoparticles were prepared and used for cell imaging and cell-targeting delivery of genes toward hepatocytes.
Recent advances in DNA-free editing and precise base editing in plants
Authors: Zhang Yi , Gao Caixia
Published: November 2017

Genome-editing technologies based on the CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) system have been widely used in plants to investigate gene function and improve crop traits. The recently developed DNA-free delivery methods and precise base-editing systems provide new opportunities for plant genome engineering. In this review, we describe the novel DNA-free genome-editing methods in plants. These methods reduce off-target effects and may alleviate regulatory concern about genetically modified plants. We also review applications of base-editing systems, which are highly effective in generating point mutations and are of great value for introducing agronomically valuable traits. Future perspectives for DNA-free editing and base editing are also discussed.
Opportunities for genome editing in vegetable crops
Authors: Cardi Teodoro , Batelli Giorgia , Nicolia Alessandro
Published: November 2017

Vegetables include high-value crops with health-promoting effects and reduced environmental impact. The availability of genomic and biotechnological tools in certain species, coupled with the recent development of new breeding techniques based on precise editing of DNA, provides unique opportunities to finally take advantage of the past decades of detailed genetic analyses, thus making improvement of traits related to quality and stress tolerance achievable in a reasonable time frame. Recent reports of such approaches in vegetables illustrate the feasibility of obtaining multiple homozygous mutations in a single generation, heritable by the progeny, using stable or transient transformation approaches, which may not rely on the integration of unwanted foreign DNA. Application of these approaches to currently non-sequenced/tissue culture recalcitrant crops will contribute to meet the challenges posed by the increase in population and climate change.
Polar coded space–time block coded spatial modulation based on Plotkin's construction for coded cooperative networks
Authors: Mughal Shoaib , Yang Fengfan , Xu HongJun , Umar Rahim
Published: November 2017

A Plotkin‐based polar coded space–time spatial modulation scheme is proposed and its bit error rate (BER) performance over quasi‐static Rayleigh fading channel is evaluated. The exacerbated complexity in receiver design is ameliorated by employing a low complexity soft demapper for their proposed Plotkin‐based polar coded scheme. As there is a natural split present in the design of the considered Plotkin's construction, therefore the authors effectively extended their proposed scheme to coded‐cooperative scenarios. In any coded‐cooperative communication, the relay node always plays a pivotal role in determining the BER performance of communication system. Therefore, a rational selection criterion for selecting the information bits at the relay node is presented. The authors have also devised nested polar coded‐cooperative space–time spatial modulation (NPCCST‐SM) scheme as a useful benchmark. Monte‐Carlo simulated results revealed that their proposed coded‐cooperative scheme has triumphed conventional NPCCST‐SM scheme by a gain of 0.6–0.8 dB under identical conditions. Moreover, the proposed cooperative scheme outperforms its corresponding non‐cooperative counterpart scheme by a gain of 1–1.2 dB under identical conditions.
Performance analysis and optimisation for edge connection of JSCC system based on double protograph LDPC codes
Authors: Hong Shaohua , Chen Qiwang , Wang Lin
Published: November 2017

For a joint source–channel coding system based on double protograph low‐density parity‐check codes, the exchange of extrinsic information through edge connection between the source code and channel code is essential for good performance. In this study, the relationship between the performance and edge connection in the tanner graph is analysed and it has never been seen in the literature to the authors' knowledge. Both the joint protograph extrinsic information transfer and simulation results indicate that the edge connection should be optimised in practical applications since it plays an important role in the bit error rate performance and an optimisation scheme for the edge connection is put forward to enhance performance.
Optimisation of HF signal injection parameters for EV applications based on sensorless IPMSM drives
Authors: Zine Wided , Idkhajine Lahoucine , Monmasson Eric , Makni Zaatar , Chauvenet Pierre‐Alexandre , Condamin Bruno , Bruyere Antoine
Published: November 2017

The study proposes a parameter optimisation of the high‐frequency (HF) signal injection sensorless algorithm applied to an interior permanent magnet synchronous machine (IPMSM). The latter is intended for electric vehicle (EV) traction applications with dedicated mission profile under specific constraints. This optimisation aims to minimise two conflicting objectives: (i) minimising the position estimation error which impacts the torque accuracy and (ii) minimising torque ripples responsible for additional stress on the motor shaft, causing unwanted noise in the vehicle powertrain. The main contribution of this study is to provide guidelines for the selection of the HF signal injection tuning parameters so as to satisfy these objectives. To do so, a genetic algorithm has been implemented and the optimisation process is based on a reliable simulation model. Using a simulation model is deliberately chosen in order to reflect the behaviour of a motor series. Besides, in order to integrate the specificities of the target application, the optimisation process is based on a typical EV mission profile. A set of non‐dominated solutions satisfying the tradeoff between the position error and the torque ripples is obtained, discussed and finally tested with success on an experimental setup.
Scaling laws for electrodynamic suspension in high‐speedtransportation
Authors: Flankl Michael , Wellerdieck Tobias , Tüysüz Arda , Kolar Johann Walter
Published: November 2017

Electrodynamic suspension (EDS) relies on the repulsive force created by eddy currents in a stationary conductive body (rail) and a magnetic field generated by an excitation system on a moving vehicle (pod). The excitation system in this paper consists of permanent magnets in a Hallbach array. EDS generates lift forces that levitate the pod reliably at high speeds of the vehicle since no mechanical suspension is required. Therefore, it gains interest for high‐speed transportation applications such as the Hyperloop project, driven by the Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX). Electrodynamic fields and forces have been analysed in detail in the literature; however, the sophistication and/or limited applicability of analytical approaches or the computational burden of FEM/numerical methods render those impractical for the initial design of EDS systems. Therefore, power and loss scaling laws for EDS systems are derived in this study. A 3D simulation for a design example shows that the scaling law is within 10% deviation. Finally, the drag coefficient of EDS systems is compared with other forms of commercial high‐speed ground and air transportation systems. A pod with EDS running in vacuum has the potential of decreasing energy consumption significantly above the cruising speeds of modern subsonic airliners.
Small target detection based on reweighted infrared patch‐image model
Authors: Guo Jun , Wu Yiquan , Dai Yimian
Published: November 2017

To further improve the effect of infrared small target detection, a reweighted infrared patch‐image model is proposed. First, the authors point out that the nuclear norm in the infrared patch‐image model could easily leave some sparse background edges in the target patch‐image, leading to an inaccurate background estimation. Then, to overcome this defect, the reweighted nuclear norm is adopted to constrain the background patch‐image, which could preserve the background edges better. Considering that some non‐target sparse points could not be suppressed by only using l1 norm, the authors introduce the reweighted l1 norm to further enhance the sparsity of target image. Finally, the proposed model is formulated as a reweighted robust principal component analysis problem and solved by the inexact augmented Lagrangian multiplier method. Extensive experiments show that the proposed model outperforms the other six competitive methods in suppressing background clutter and detecting target.
Single mode semiconductor laser based on coupled cavities of an active ring laser and Fabry Perot
Authors: Dernaika Mohamad , Kelly Niall P. , Caro Ludovic , Peters Frank H.
Published: November 2017

A single mode laser based on coupled cavities of an active ring laser and a Fabry Perot is presented. The laser exhibits tunable single mode behaviour with a side mode suppression ratio of 41 dB and a line‐width of 400 kHz.
Entropy-stable space–time DG schemes for non-conservative hyperbolic systems
Authors: Hiltebrand Andreas , Mishra Siddhartha , Parés Carlos
Published: November 2017

We propose a space–time discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method to approximate multi-dimensional non-conservative hyperbolic systems. The scheme is based on a particular choice of interface fluctuations. The key difference with existing space–time DG methods lies in the fact that our scheme is formulated in entropy variables, allowing us to prove entropy stability for the method. Additional numerical stabilization in the form of streamline diffusion and shock-capturing terms are added. The resulting method is entropy stable, arbitrary high-order accurate, fully discrete, and able to handle complex domain geometries discretized with unstructured grids. We illustrate the method with representative numerical examples.
Endoscopic Endonasal Repair of Internal Carotid Artery Injury during Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery
Authors: Duek Irit , Sviri Gill , Amit Moran , Gil Ziv
Published: November 2017

Background Injury to the cavernous portion of the internal carotid artery (ICA) during endoscopic skull base surgery is a well-recognized rare complication that can be associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Many techniques have been suggested to manage ICA injury with varying degrees of success.

Objectives We provide a detailed technical description of an operative technique for endoscopic management of carotid artery injury.

Methods A case of ICA injury during endoscopic skull base surgery is presented. The immediate treatment measurements include: (1) early recognition of ICA injury, (2) briefing of the team and preparations, (3) packing, (4) harvesting of temporalis muscle patch, (5) placement of the muscle patch over the defect, and (6) gentle compression for 10 minutes.

Results The technique facilitates quick repair and restores normal blood flow through the damaged artery. Exsanguination or the symptoms of stroke that may occur from prolonged occlusion of the ICA are therefore prevented.

Conclusion The proposed protocol is useful for the management of a potentially life-threatening ICA injury.
Fahreignung bei Morbus Parkinson – Drei Faktoren maßgeblich
Authors: Kroggel Lena
Published: November 2017

Morbus Parkinson beeinträchtigt die Betroffenen physisch und psychisch und wirkt sich auch auf die komplexe Tätigkeit des Autofahrens aus. Für die Beurteilung der Fahreignung sind persönliche Charakteristika, verordnete Medikamente und Auswirkungen einer Operation ausschlaggebend.
Tuberkulose bei Flüchtlingen und Asylbewerbern: Tuberkulose-Screening bei Einreise und Fallmanagement
Authors: Priwitzer Martin ,   für den Bundesverband der Ärztinnen und Ärzte des Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes e. V., Fachausschuss Infektionsschutz, Arbeitskreis Tuberkulose
Published: November 2017

Die vorliegende Stellungnahme des Bundesverbandes der Ärztinnen und Ärzte des Öffentlichen Gesundheitsdienstes e. V. gibt unter Berücksichtigung der gesetzlichen Grundlagen und der aktuellen Empfehlungen des Robert Koch-Instituts sowie der Deutschen Gesellschaft für pädiatrische Infektiologie konkrete Empfehlungen, wie das Tuberkulose-Screening bei Geflüchteten und Asylbewerbern im Rahmen der Einreise zielführend, fachlich adäquat und ressourcenorientiert durchgeführt werden kann, differenziert nach verschiedenen Personengruppen (Erwachsene, Kinder, Schwangere, unbegleitete minderjährige Ausländer). Außerdem werden Empfehlungen zur Sicherung des Behandlungserfolgs bei Geflüchteten und Asylbewerbern mit Tuberkulose, zur Durchführung von Umgebungsuntersuchungen und zur präventiven Behandlung einer latenten tuberkulösen Infektion bei Geflüchteten und Asylbewerbern formuliert.
Solid-state nanopores of controlled geometry fabricated in a transmission electron microscope
Authors: Qian Hui , Egerton Ray F.
Published: November 2017

Energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography were applied to in situ studies of the formation, shape, and diameter of nanopores formed in a silicon nitride membrane in a transmission electron microscope. The nanopore geometry was observed in three dimensions by electron tomography. Drilling conditions, such as probe current, beam convergence angle, and probe position, affect the formation rate and the geometry of the pores. With a beam convergence semi-angle of α = 22 mrad, a conical shaped nanopore is formed but at α = 45 mrad, double-cone (hourglass-shaped) nanopores were produced. Nanopores with an effective diameter between 10 nm and 1.8 nm were fabricated by controlling the drilling time.
Development of isothermal-isobaric replica-permutation method for molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations and its application to reveal temperature and pressure dependence of folded, misfolded, and unfolded states of chignolin
Authors: Yamauchi Masataka , Okumura Hisashi
Published: November 2017

We developed a two-dimensional replica-permutation molecular dynamics method in the isothermal-isobaric ensemble. The replica-permutation method is a better alternative to the replica-exchange method. It was originally developed in the canonical ensemble. This method employs the Suwa-Todo algorithm, instead of the Metropolis algorithm, to perform permutations of temperatures and pressures among more than two replicas so that the rejection ratio can be minimized. We showed that the isothermal-isobaric replica-permutation method performs better sampling efficiency than the isothermal-isobaric replica-exchange method and infinite swapping method. We applied this method to a β-hairpin mini protein, chignolin. In this simulation, we observed not only the folded state but also the misfolded state. We calculated the temperature and pressure dependence of the fractions on the folded, misfolded, and unfolded states. Differences in partial molar enthalpy, internal energy, entropy, partial molar volume, and heat capacity were also determined and agreed well with experimental data. We observed a new phenomenon that misfolded chignolin becomes more stable under high-pressure conditions. We also revealed this mechanism of the stability as follows: TYR2 and TRP9 side chains cover the hydrogen bonds that form a β-hairpin structure. The hydrogen bonds are protected from the water molecules that approach the protein as the pressure increases.
Amplitude instability in the mass-transfer theory for Yukawa systems
Authors: Lisina I. I. , Vaulina O. S. , Lisin E. A.
Published: November 2017

Conditions for amplitude instability formation in a system of charged grains placed in an external electric field are considered. The criterion for the development of this kind of instability is proposed. The proposed analytical approach is tested by numerical simulations of problem for Yukawa systems consisting of two particles. The influence of the formation of amplitude instability on the mass-transfer processes and on the dynamics of “leaps” in the two-particle systems is studied.
Achievement of two logical states through a polymer/silicon interface for organic-inorganic hybrid memory
Authors: Chen Jianhui , Chen Bingbing , Shen Yanjiao , Guo Jianxin , Liu Baoting , Dai Xiuhong , Xu Ying , Mai Yaohua
Published: November 2017

A hysteresis loop of minority carrier lifetime vs voltage is found in polystyrenesulfonate (PSS)/Si organic-inorganic hybrid heterojunctions, implying an interfacial memory effect. Capacitance-voltage and conductance-voltage hysteresis loops are observed and reveal a memory window. A switchable interface state, which can be controlled by charge transfer based on an electrochemical oxidation/deoxidation process, is suggested to be responsible for this hysteresis effect. We perform first-principle total-energy calculations on the influence of external electric fields and electrons or holes, which are injected into interface states on the adsorption energy of PSS on Si. It is demonstrated that the dependence of the interface adsorption energy difference on the electric field is the origin of this two-state switching. These results offer a concept of organic-inorganic hybrid interface memory being optically or electrically readable, low-cost, and compatible with the flexible organic electronics.
Impurity states in InSe monolayers doped with group II and IV elements
Authors: Li Xueping , Du Juan , Xiong Wenqi , Xia Congxin
Published: November 2017

We have used first-principles calculations to investigate the electronic structures of two-dimensional (2D) InSe monolayers doped with group II and IV elements. The results show that substituting Mg, Ca, Ge, and Sn for indium clearly modifies the electronic and magnetic properties of InSe monolayers and that these substitutions should be easily achieved in a Se-rich environment. Mg- and Ca-doped InSe monolayers develop deep acceptor states and magnetism, whereas substituting Ge and Sn for In induces shallow donor impurity states in these monolayers. Furthermore, the results show that substituting Sn for In provides effective n-type carriers in the InSe monolayer because of the low formation energy and transition level (∼61.10 meV). These results should be helpful for related experimental studies.
Solitons of the coupled Schrödinger-Korteweg-de Vries system with arbitrary strengths of the nonlinearity and dispersion
Authors: Gromov Evgeny , Malomed Boris
Published: November 2017

New two-component soliton solutions of the coupled high-frequency (HF)—low-frequency (LF) system, based on Schrödinger-Korteweg-de Vries (KdV) system with the Zakharov's coupling, are obtained for arbitrary relative strengths of the nonlinearity and dispersion in the LF component. The complex HF field is governed by the linear Schrödinger equation with a potential generated by the real LF component, which, in turn, is governed by the KdV equation including the ponderomotive coupling term, representing the feedback of the HF field onto the LF component. First, we study the evolution of pulse-shaped pulses by means of direct simulations. In the case when the dispersion of the LF component is weak in comparison to its nonlinearity, the input gives rise to several solitons in which the HF component is much broader than its LF counterpart. In the opposite case, the system creates a single soliton with approximately equal widths of both components. Collisions between stable solitons are studied too, with a conclusion that the collisions are inelastic, with a greater soliton getting still stronger, and the smaller one suffering further attenuation. Robust intrinsic modes are excited in the colliding solitons. A new family of approximate analytical two-component soliton solutions with two free parameters is found for an arbitrary relative strength of the nonlinearity and dispersion of the LF component, assuming weak feedback of the HF field onto the LF component. Further, a one-parameter (non-generic) family of exact bright-soliton solutions, with mutually proportional HF and LF components, is produced too. Intrinsic dynamics of the two-component solitons, induced by a shift of their HF component against the LF one, is also studied, by means of numerical simulations, demonstrating excitation of a robust intrinsic mode. In addition to the above-mentioned results for LF-dominated two-component solitons, which always run in one (positive) velocities, we produce HF-dominated soliton complexes, which travel in the opposite (negative) direction. They are obtained in a numerical form and by means of a quasi-adiabatic analytical approximation. The solutions with positive and negative velocities correspond, respectively, to super- and subsonic Davydov-Scott solitons.
Harmonic-phase path-integral approximation of thermal quantum correlation functions
Authors: Robertson Christopher , Habershon Scott
Published: November 2017

We present an approximation to the thermal symmetric form of the quantum time-correlation function in the standard position path-integral representation. By transforming to a sum-and-difference position representation and then Taylor-expanding the potential energy surface of the system to second order, the resulting expression provides a harmonic weighting function that approximately recovers the contribution of the phase to the time-correlation function. This method is readily implemented in a Monte Carlo sampling scheme and provides exact results for harmonic potentials (for both linear and non-linear operators) and near-quantitative results for anharmonic systems for low temperatures and times that are likely to be relevant to condensed phase experiments. This article focuses on one-dimensional examples to provide insights into convergence and sampling properties, and we also discuss how this approximation method may be extended to many-dimensional systems.
Heat diffusion in magnetic superlattices on glass substrates
Authors: Hoveyda F. , Adnani M. , Smadici S.
Published: November 2017

Pump-probe experiments and polarizing microscopy are applied to examine temperature and heat flow in metallic magnetic superlattices on glass substrates. A model of heat diffusion in thin layers for cylindrical symmetry, equivalent to the Green's function method, gives a good description of the results. The frequency dependence of temperature modulation shows that a glass layer should be added to the sample structure. The demagnetization patterns are reproduced with a Green's function that includes an interface conductance.
Surface electrons above liquid helium in a narrow channel. Modeling of current processes
Authors: Syvokon V. E. , Sharapova I. V.
Published: November 2017

The molecular dynamics method is used to model electric currents in a spatially ordered system of surface electrons above liquid helium (a Wigner crystal) within a narrow channel. It is shown that electric fields applied to the electron system during measurements can cause a substantial realignment of the spatial configuration of the electrons. The measured current is also a consequence of this realignment. It is shown that under certain conditions, electrons can leave the channel by overcoming an energy barrier, which leads to spikes in the current characteristics of the system. A comparison of the model results with existing experimental data indicates that the experimentally observed effects are caused exclusively by electron-electron interactions and the influence of external fields, but have nothing to do with electron-ripplon interactions.
Influence of the K+ ions and the superstoichiometric manganese on structure defects, magneto-transport and dielectric properties of magnetoresistive La0.7Ca0.3-xKxMn1+xO3-δ ceramic
Authors: Liedienov N. A. , Pashchenko A. V. , Pashchenko V. P. , Prokopenko V. K. , Tatarchuk D. D. , Revenko Yu. F. , Turchenko V. A. , Burchovetskii V. V. , Sycheva V. Ya. , Sil'cheva A. G. , Didenko Yu. V. , Levchenko G. G.
Published: November 2017

The structure, its defects, nanostructural clustering and functional properties of the La0.7Ca0.3-xKxMn1+xO3-δ ceramic with x = 0–0.3 have been investigated by x-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric, SEM, resistance, magnetic, magnetoresistance and dielectric spectroscopy methods. We establish that the lattice parameter of the cubic structure increases when the Ca2+ ions are substituted with ions of K+. We show that the real perovskite structure contains different valence states of manganese MnA2+,MnB3+ and MnB4+ in A- and B-positions, as well as vacancy type point defects, in the form of anionic V(a) and cationic V(c) vacancies. The increase in the content of the superstoichiometric manganese is connected to the nanostructured clustering process. We find that K+ and superstoichiometric manganese cause the increase in relative permittivity ε′ and dielectric loss tangent angle tg δ. The experimental phase diagram of the magnetic state has been constructed and allows determining the composition of the magnetoresistant La0.7Ca0.3-xKxMn1+xO3-δ ceramics with set magnetotransport properties. The optimal La0.7Ca0.3-xKxMn1+xO3-δ composition showing the highest magnetoresistance effect at room temperature has been determined by comparing the functional properties of lanthanum-calcium, lanthanum-strontium and lanthanum-calcium-potassium manganites.
Mechanical properties of the high-entropy alloy Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi in various structural states at temperatures of 0.5–300 K
Authors: Tabachnikova E. D. , Laktionova M. A. , Semerenko Yu. A. , Shumilin S. E. , Podolskiy A. V. , Tikhonovsky M. A. , Miskuf J. , Csach K.
Published: November 2017

The mechanical properties and fracture characteristics of the high-entropy alloy Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi are studied in different structural states (cast and after two heat treatments) at temperatures of 0.5–300 K with quasistatic deformation by uniaxial compression and distension. Mechanical resonance spectroscopy is used to measure the temperature variations of the Young modulus in the different structural states. It is found that heat treatment of the samples leads to an increase (by roughly 25%) in the Young modulus, the nominal yield point τ0.2, and the deforming stress. The form of the deformation curves is analyzed. The temperature interval for the transition from smooth to discontinuous plastic flow is determined. For the cast state the differences in τ0.2 under tension and compression are determined, an anomalous temperature dependence of τ0.2 (for temperatures in the 0.5–4.2 K range) is discovered, and thermal activation analysis of the experimental data yields empirical estimates for the parameters of the interactions of dislocations with local barriers. After heat treatment the samples break up into two parts under compression, as opposed to the cast state, where the samples acquire a “barrel” shape during compression. It is found that fracture of the heat treated samples at temperatures of 300–4.2 K has a viscous character.
Broadening of the superconducting transition in single crystal Y-Ba-Cu-O
Authors: Khadzhai G. Ya. , Vovk C. R. , Vovk R. V.
Published: November 2017

It is shown that in high-Tc superconductors, the transition to the superconducting state can be described in terms of the phenomenological theory of diffuse phase transitions due to the heterogeneity of the material structure. The paraconductivity associated with the fluctuation Cooper pairs above Tc shows a 2D–3D crossover, which also occurs in a certain temperature range above that of the superconducting transition.
CSIRO Non-carbon Dioxide Greenhouse Gas Research. Part 1: 1975–90
Authors: Fraser Paul J. , Pearman Graeme I. , Derek Nada
Published: November 2017

There are a number atmospheric gases, in addition to carbon dioxide (CO2), that affect the absorption and emission of infrared radiation throughout the atmosphere, the so-called ‘non-CO2 greenhouse gases', and they have a significant impact on climate. In addition, some of these non-CO2 greenhouse gases contain chlorine and/or bromine, and contribute to halogen-catalysed stratospheric ozone depletion. In the mid 1970s, CSIRO at Aspendale became the first southern hemisphere laboratory to initiate research into the atmospheric abundance, trends, sources and sinks of non-CO2 greenhouse gases, and today (2017) is currently observing and modelling the past and present biogeochemical cycling of over eighty of these species, arguably the most comprehensive program of its type globally. The resultant CSIRO data are used to derive global and regional emissions of non-CO2 greenhouse gases and their impact on climate and stratospheric ozone via resultant changes to the planetary radiative budget and the abundance of ‘equivalent chlorine' (weighted sum of chlorine and bromine) in the stratosphere. These data and their impacts are reported nationally to relevant Commonwealth and State Departments—environment, energy, industry, agriculture—and to relevant Australian industries—refrigeration, air-conditioning, aluminium production. They are reported internationally to United Nations agencies responsible for implementing the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer (1985) and the Framework Convention on Climate Change (1992), who periodically assess the science of climate change and ozone depletion. As the world strives to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions through national, policy-driven, initiatives framed to meet agreed obligations under these international agreements, atmospheric measurement programs, such as those operated by the CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology in Australia, are critical in independently verifying the success or otherwise of such endeavours. This paper describes the initial fifteen years (1975–90) of activities in CSIRO that set up the framework for the current, globally significant, CSIRO non-CO2 greenhouse gas research program.
Adding landscape genetics and individual traits to the ecosystem function paradigm reveals the importance of species functional breadth
Authors: Castilla Antonio R. , Pope Nathaniel S. , O’Connell Megan , Rodriguez María F. , Treviño Laurel , Santos Alonso , Jha Shalene
Published: November 2017

Significance

Pollinators mediate reproductive processes between plants; however, little is known about how plant and pollinator traits impact pollen dispersal and resulting genetic connectivity. Our study quantifies pollen-dispersal distances and pollination effectiveness for individual pollinator species. We demonstrate that seed set is positively driven by pollinator body size, but long-distance pollen dispersal is mediated by both large-bodied and small-bodied bees. We also reveal that individual plant and population attributes impact pollen-dispersal distances and seed production, respectively. Thus, we show that plant and pollinator traits mediate pollination function and that the entire pollinator community, large and small, plays an important role in the maintenance of genetic connectivity.
Language learning strategy and language learning achievement
Authors: Lin Jia
Published: November 2017

This study investigates the relationship between language learning achievement and the use of language learning strategy among intermediate Chinese as a second language (L2) learners. A total of 62 students from an intermediate Chinese course participated in this study.Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL)(Oxford, 1989) was used to assess participants’ strategy use frequency. Correlation, one-way ANOVA, and ANOVA post hoc tests were performed for data analysis. Key findings suggest that: (1) initiative, communicative orientation, and risk taking are good behavioral predictors of Chinese L2 achievement; (2) medium-achieving learners are more active in using strategies, especially cognitive and memory strategies. These investigations of strategy use within and across achievement groups revealed both Chinese L2 learners’ characteristics in strategy use, and also the problems and challenges that learners with different achievement levels encounter. Multiple pedagogical implications are provided at the end of this article.
The nature of parasitism.
Authors: Rohde K.
Published: November 2017

This chapter consists of two sections. The first gives definitions of terms and a brief discussion of some adaptations to a parasitic way of life, such as body size, reproductive capacity, reduction and increase in complexity, and dispersal. The second discusses the distribution of parasites and in particular of marine parasites in the "tree of life". It is emphasized that life originated in an aqueous and probably marine environment, and that every marine organism is a potential host to parasites.
Energy consumption in US agriculture.
Authors: Miranowski J. A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter first establishes a baseline for energy consumption in US agricultural production, both in the aggregate and by output categories. Secondly, it evaluates the responsiveness of agricultural producers to real energy price increases, other relative price changes, and associated input substitution possibilities. Thirdly, it assesses the energy efficiency of agricultural production and why efficiency changes over time. Fourthly, it reviews energy use in food processing and compares the energy efficiency in agriculture with that in food processing and other sectors of the US economy. Finally, the chapter discusses the roles of technology (information and biotechnology), government agricultural policies and programmes, and rural energy security in energy consumption in agriculture.
Economic analysis of alternative lignocellulosic sources for ethanol production.
Authors: Herbst B. K. , Anderson D. P. , Lau M. H. , Outlaw J. L. , Klose S. L. , Holtzapple M. T.
Published: November 2017

This chapter first describes a new lignocellulosic process for the conversion of biomass into ethanol. A simulation model is then used to determine the feasibility of a 30-million-gal/year lignocellulosic ethanol plant in Texas, USA, in comparison to a similar-sized feed grain ethanol plant in the same state. The results support the notion that lignocellulosic-based ethanol production may be a profitable enterprise in Texas. The analysis indicates that the profitability of such a plant will depend greatly on the initial investment costs. The lignocellulosic ethanol plant returned positive net present values and net cash income at each investment level considered in the simulation (US$ 20, 40 and 60 million). Ending cash (EC) balance increases at the US$20 million and US$40 million initial investment level, but decreases at the US$60 million initial investment level with a 40% probability of being negative at the end of the planning period. Comparison with the feed grain ethanol plant shows that the lignocellulosic ethanol plant has a higher projected net cash income, real net worth, and net present value. The latter also has lower probabilities of negative net income and negative EC balances (1% compared to 27%).
Animal waste as a source of renewable energy.
Authors: Priyadarsan S. , Annamalai K. , Thien B. , Sweeten J. M. , Mukhtar S.
Published: November 2017

Poultry litter biomass (LB) and feedlot biomass (FB) have greater volatile matter (80%) on a dry ash-free basis compared to coal (45%). Both biomass fuels lose volatiles more rapidly and at lower temperatures (520 K) than coal (670 K). The heating values of FB and LB are much lower than coal, so the mass flow of fuel has to be increased to maintain the same heat throughput when firing blends. Co-firing results suggest that biomass blends and coal have a similar burnt mass fraction (0.95). During co-firing, eventhough the fuel nitrogen throughput increased, there was no appreciable change in NOx emissions compared to coal. However, for all the fuels tested, NOx increased as the excess air percentage was increased. Gasification of coal and FB blends suggest that FB can be co-gasified with coal to generate a low-Btu product gas, which in turn can be used for direct burning to generate heat and power. The economic analysis suggests that it is feasible to co-fire both FB and LB in existing coal power plants. In addition, co-firing results in a decrease in CO2 emissions, but an increase in SO2 emissions. To make animal waste an alternative non-conventional source of renewable energy, the handling and transportation cost for these fuels has to be kept minimal. This can be achieved by decreasing the moisture and ash content of the biomass fuel.
Case studies of rural electric cooperatives' experiences with bioenergy.
Authors: Whitman C. E.
Published: November 2017

This chapter first introduces rural electric cooperatives in the USA and their use of bioenergy, and then shares two cooperatives' experiences with biofuels (biodiesel) and biopower (biomass-to-electricity). It is shown that there are still some practical cost, availability and performance constraints to the widespread use of bioenergy by cooperatives. In both cases, it is market barriers that pose the biggest challenges.
Turkey's foreign trade position.
Authors: Burrell A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes Turkey's (i) total merchandise trade and balance of payments; (ii) trade in agricultural products, particularly with the EU; (iii) agricultural trade policy measures and World Trade Organization commitments; and (iv) agricultural trade arrangements with the EU. It is concluded that Turkey is a medium-sized country in agricultural trade terms, and it is therefore not surprising that it has had various differences of opinion with its agricultural trading partners and competitors.
Opportunities, threats and challenges.
Authors: Burrell A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter synthesizes the findings of the book, in particular drawing on the conclusions and implications of the previous two chapters. Its aim is not to produce a comprehensive list of opportunities, threats and challenges, in relation to agriculture, food and rural areas, that would arise from Turkish accession but rather to shed light on some of the questions that existing EU member states are inevitably asking when considering the prospect of Turkey as a member. These questions include: how would Turkey's entry benefit the European project that has been under development for the last 50 years? How might member states individually and collectively gain in concrete terms? How might Turkey's entry threaten what has already been achieved, or what it is hoped will be achieved in the future? And what will be the most difficult challenges ahead, in the specific areas of interest addressed by this book, as negotiations bring Turkish accession closer?
Periphyton dynamics and influencing factors.
Authors: Vermaat J. E.
Published: November 2017

Biomass and productivity of periphyton communities vary greatly over short distances and time spans, because constituent taxa can respond rapidly to changes in biotic and abiotic factors through colonization from the surrounding water and through growth. Emphasis is given on the periphyton of lake littorals and similar freshwater habitats with limited flow, although citations will be made across these divides when necessary. The development of a typical, though non-existent, periphyton community through time is presented, including the concomitant changes in composition. The major factors (i.e., colonization, attachment, growth, dislodgement and seasonality) that affect or modulate this pattern are discussed. Abiotic and biotic interactions are discussed separately although they interact in a complex fashion in the real world. The primary abiotic factors include light, temperature, nutrients and dissolved inorganic carbon. The biotic interactions covered here are substrate specificity: host-periphyton interactions and grazing. Finally, the spatial patterns and the modelling of periphyton dynamics are discussed.
Adaptations to feeding in herbivorous fish (Cyprinidae and Cichlidae).
Authors: Sibbing F. A. , Witte F.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the anatomical and behavioural adaptations of herbivorous cyprinids and cichlids for feeding on plants, including phytoplankton, algae, periphyton, macrophytes, seeds and detritus.
Similarities between microbial and periphytic biofilms in aquaculture systems.
Authors: Verdegem M. C. J. , Eding E. H. , Sereti V. , Munibi R. N. , Santacruz-Reyes R. A. , Dam A. A. van
Published: November 2017

This paper discusses the similarities between biofilms and periphyton mats in aquaculture systems. The structure of both biofilms and periphyton mats is briefly reviewed, the process of ammonia removal is explained and quantified, solid trapping and detachment from films and mats are described and the possible impact on the oxygen budget in culture systems is examined. In addition, the performance of a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) using a sedimentation tank and trickling biofilter is compared to the functioning of a periphyton-based RAS.
Research on periphyton-based aquaculture in India.
Authors: Keshavanath P. , Gangadhar B.
Published: November 2017

This review presents the results of periphyton-based aquaculture studies in India, and is divided into 8 sections. Following a brief introduction, the second section summarizes the results of the studies on plankton and periphyton productivity in terms of density and biomass. The third section discusses the results of fish production obtained in grow-out studies which aimed to evaluate the substrates, to compare fed and non-fed systems, and to standardize fish stocking density and the use of substrates in nursery rearing. The results of the studies on the utility of bacterial biofilm in fish health are summarized in the fourth section, and the effect of substrates on water quality parameters are presented in the fifth section. The information available on the digestibility of periphyton and the economics of periphyton-based fish culture using sugarcane bagasse as a substrate are presented on the sixth and seventh sections. The conclusion forms the last part of the review.
Periphyton-based cage aquaculture.
Authors: Huchette S. M. H. , Beveridge M. C. M.
Published: November 2017

There are two types of aquaculture rearing system: land-based and water-based. The former includes ponds, raceways and tanks while the latter comprises enclosures, pens and cages. Cage is a rearing system enclosed on the bottom as well as the sides by wooden, mesh or more commonly net screens. This paper discusses the advantages and disadvantages of cage aquaculture. Periphyton-based aquaculture is confined to the rearing of herbivores, tropical fishes and the techniques have greatest potential in subsistence type aquaculture. Periphyton-based cage aquaculture was not found to be economically viable, only a limited range of cage technologies (floating cages), species (tilapias) and production scenarios (high stocking biomass, large fish; intermediate stocking density and intermediate fish size) were investigated. A much cheaper fixed cage design is proposed. Maximization of periphyton production is achieved by providing as much substrate as possible in the upper 0.5 m or so of the cage. Further work is required to demonstrate that periphyton-based cage aquaculture is economically viable.
General characteristics of the damage to forest ecosystems in Russia caused by industrial pollution.
Authors: Vassilieva N. P. , Gytarsky M. L. , Karaban R. T.
Published: November 2017

Industrial emissions cause local damage to forests in the vicinity of large enterprises in various parts of Russia. The area of possible forest decline in the country attributable to air pollution is probably about 1.3 million hectares. Non-ferrous metallurgy and power generation are the major sources of phytotoxic atmospheric emissions. The main method of forest vitality assessment that is applied over highly polluted regions of the country consists of monitoring, although a number of different forest monitoring systems exist. No significant improvement in forest vitality in damaged areas is expected in the near future.
Impact of air pollution on the forests of Central and Eastern Europe.
Authors: Vancura K. , Raben G. , Gorzelak A. , Mikulowski M. , Caboun V. , Oleksyn J.
Published: November 2017

Over the past 50 yr, there has been an unprecedented deterioration of the environment of Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. Air pollutants from fossil fuel combustion and heavy industry threaten productivity and in some places the future survival of forests. Political changes at the end of the 1980s were followed by economic transformations and significant declines in pollutant emissions. The decline in emissions was particularly noticeable (more than 50% in some countries) for sulfur dioxide. However, reductions in the atmospheric concentrations of toxic gases have not eliminated local and regional forest declines or the existence of pollution 'hot spots' with average daily concentrations of SO2 up to 1000 µg m-3. Changes in defoliation levels have not followed reductions in pollutant emissions and remain high throughout the region. Imbalanced nutrition is an important factor affecting tree health and reducing the resistance of forest ecosystems to combinations of other stresses. The reasons for the lack of a direct relationship between regional pollution loads and tree crown condition are uncertain and need further investigation. A new type of intensive monitoring (UN-ECE level II) should provide regional information about the ecological risks facing forest ecosystems, and should also lead to recommendations for forest management in areas impacted by air pollution. In Belarus, the Russian Federation and Ukraine, over 3.5 million hectares of forests were affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, resulting in the withdrawal of the wood and secondary products from the market and up to 10 times higher than normal costs of forest operations.