bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benzalkonium Salts of Amino Acids – Physicochemical Properties and Anti-Microbial Activity
Authors: Ossowicz Paula , Janus Ewa , Błaszak Magdalena , Zatoń Kinga , Rozwadowski Zbigniew
Published: November 2017

New salts combining a benzalkonium cation and chiral amino acid anions were synthesized and characterized. The identification was performed by NMR spectroscopy. Properties such as temperature of phase transformation, specific rotation, thermal stability and surface activity and antimicrobial activity were determined and compared with that of benzalkonium chloride. Benzalkonium amino acids salts can be used as conditioners in cosmetics. It has been shown they have weak impact on symbiotic microorganisms which occupy a wide range of skin, and this confirms that they do not disturb the biological balance of human skin.
Enzymatic Synthesis and Characterization of Sucrose Erucate
Authors: Jadhav Jagruti , Pratap Amit P.
Published: November 2017

The enzyme catalyzed synthesis is a environmentally friendly route compared to traditional syntheses. The lipase-catalyzed synthesis of sucrose erucate was achieved in a solvent mixture of t-butanol and dimethyl sulfoxide (4: 1) by esterification of sucrose with erucic acid using the immobilized Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase. Various process parameters like temperature, substrate molar ratio, solvent, time, and enzyme loading were studied. The optimal conditions for the esterification reaction obtained were 10 %(w/w) enzyme loading, a molar ratio sucrose/fatty acid 1: 1, mild reaction conditions (50 °C and atmospheric pressure) and reaction time (40 h with 55.6 % conversion). The sugar esters were characterized for surfactant properties at different concentration. Sucrose erucate showed a surface tension of (32.73 ± 0.01) mN m−1at a critical micellar concentration of 9.8 × 10−5 mol L−1 and good emulsification power.
Electrocatalytic Hydrogenolysis of Chlorophenolic Compounds by Modified Electrodes in Aqueous Medium in the Absence and the Presence of Ionic Surfactant
Authors: Boukreris Sadia , Ilikti Hocine , Youcef Mohammed Hadj , Khenifi Aicha , Benabdallah Tayeb
Published: November 2017

The electrocatalytic hydrogenolysis of different chlorophenolic compounds, namely 2-chlorophenol (2CP) and pentachlorophenol (PCP) was performed on nickel-silica (Ni-SiO2) and nickel-clay (Ni-CY) electrode catalyts. The influence of the catalytic support and the surfactant agent was studied in aqueous media at different pH. Results demonstrated that different regioselectivities were observed according to the used catalytic support. The cyclohexanone was obtained as the major product. In presence of ionic surfactants (SDS and CTAB), the investigated electrodes exhibited a promising dechlorination and hydrogenation potential of aromatic halides with high electrocatalytic activity and good stability.
Study of the Complex System of Fatty Alcohol Polyoxyethylene Ether Carboxylate and Alkyl Betaine for Heavy Oil Recovery
Authors: Xu Hujun , Xu Yuanhong
Published: November 2017

The properties of the surface and the interface of the complex system of hexadecyl/octadecyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether carboxylate with 3 ethoxy groups and octadecyl dimethyl carboxyl betaine were investigated. The complex system had a good synergistic effect and could reduce the Shengli Oilfield crude oil/water interfacial tension (IFT) to 10−3 mN m−1 in a wide total surfactant concentration with less amount of hexadecyl/octadecyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether carboxylate. In addition, we explored the effect of the salinity and divalent ion concentration on the interfacial tension (IFT) of the complex system. The results showed that the complex system can be used in the oil field when the salinity is lower than 50 000 mg · L−1 and the molar ratio of octadecyl dimethyl carboxyl betaine/hexadecyl/octadecyl alcohol polyoxyethylene ether carboxylate is 9: 1.
Benefits of Oral Contraceptive Pill Pretreatment in Endometriosis for IVF/ICSI-ET: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chakrabartty Sangita , Zhang Hanwang , Dong Xiyuan , Alfred Martin Omondi
Published: November 2017

Pretreatment with oral contraceptive pills (OCP) has been widely applied in IVF/ICSI –ET treatment. However, it remains unclear whether OCP influences pregnancy rate of fresh cycle and subsequent cumulative pregnancy rate in patients with endometriosis. In this retrospective study, a total of 512 first attempt IVF/ICSI cycles of patients with endometriosis were included and divided into two groups: the study group included 216 cycles of patients undergoing pretreatment with OCP before pituitary suppression and ovarian stimulation, while 296 cycles of patients without pretreatment were considered as control. The ovarian stimulation performance and pregnancy results were compared between the two groups. Patients with OCP pretreatment required shorter duration, a lower dosage of gonadotropins, but obtained higher E2 level and more retrieved oocytes. Patients in the two groups obtained comparable fertilization rate, cleavage rate, but the number and rate of day 3 high-quality embryos were higher in OCP-pretreated patients. No differences were found in IVF/ICSI-ET outcomes, in terms of implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rates, live birth pregnancy rate, and cumulative pregnancy rate. In addition, despite the lack of statistical significance, a trend toward higher clinical pregnancy rate in a fresh cycle and cumulative pregnancy rate was found in OCP pretreated patients. It should be recommended that patients with endometriosis take OCP pretreatment before ovarian stimulation, since it offers advantages of lower cost and higher embryo-quality, and does not negatively influence pregnancy rates.Chakrabartty et al., International Current Pharmaceutical Journal, July 2017, 6(8): 44-48http://www.icpjonline.com/documents/Vol6Issue8/01.pdf
Online film subtitles as a corpus: ann-gram approach
Authors: Levshina Natalia
Published: November 2017

In this paper, I investigate online film subtitles from a quantitative perspective, treating them as a separate register of communication. Subtitles from films in English and other languages translated into English are compared with registers of spoken and written communication represented by large corpora of British and American English. A series of quantitative analyses based of n-gram frequencies demonstrate that subtitles are not fundamentally different from other registers of English and that they represent a close approximation of British and American informal conversations. However, I show that the subtitles are different from the conversations with regard to several functional characteristics, which are typical of the language of scripted dialogues in films and TV series in general. Namely, the language of subtitles is more emotional and dynamic, but less spontaneous, vague and narrative than that of normally occurring conversations. The paper also compares subtitles in original English and subtitles translated from other languages and detects variation that can be explained by differences in communicative styles.
Candidate Knowledge? Exploring epistemic claims in scientific writing: a corpus-driven approach
Authors: Plappert Garry
Published: November 2017

In this paper, I argue that the study of the linguistic aspects of epistemology has become unhelpfully concentrated on the corpus-based study of hedging and that a corpus-driven approach can help to improve upon this. Through focussing on a corpus of texts from one discourse community (that of genetics) and identifying frequent tri-lexical clusters containing highly frequent lexical items that are identified as keywords, I undertake an inductive analysis identifying patterns of epistemic significance. Several of these patterns are shown to be hedging devices and the whole corpus frequencies of the most salient of these, candidate and putative, are then compared to the whole corpus frequencies for comparable wordforms and clusters of epistemic significance. Finally I interviewed a ‘friendly geneticist’ in order to check my interpretation of some of the terms used and to get an expert interpretation of the overall findings. I argue that the highly unexpected patterns of hedging found in genetics demonstrate the value of adopting a corpus-driven approach and constitute an advance in our current understanding of how to approach the relationship between language and epistemology.
Making corpus data visible: visualising text with research intermediaries
Authors: Allen William
Published: November 2017

Researchers using corpora can visualise their data and analyses using a growing number of tools. Visualisations are especially valuable in environments where researchers communicate and work with public-facing partners under the auspices of ‘knowledge exchange’ or ‘impact’, and corpus data are more available thanks to digital methods. However, although the field of corpus linguistics continues to generate its own range of techniques, it largely remains orientated towards finding ways for academics to communicate results directly with other academics rather than with or through groups outside universities. Also, there is a lack of discussion about how communication, motivations and values also feature in the process of making corpus data visible. My argument is that these sociocultural and practical factors also influence visualisation outputs alongside technical aspects. I draw upon two corpus-based projects about press portrayal of migrants, conducted by an intermediary organisation that links university researchers with users outside academia. Analysing these projects' visualisation outputs in their organisational and communication contexts produces key lessons for researchers wanting to visualise text; consider the aims and values of partners; develop communication strategies that acknowledge different areas of expertise; and link visualisation choices with wider project objectives.
Un lecteur de Pierre Boaistuau, l'apothicaire Nicolas Houel
Authors: Fontaine Marie Madeleine
Published: November 2017

Parmi les lectures qui inspirent l’Histoire d'Artémise qu'il offre à Catherine de Médicis, Nicolas Houel cite l'Histoire de Chelidonius Tigurinus sur l'institution des princes chrestiens de Pierre Boaistuau. Apothicaire inséré dans le courant paracelsien, généreux mécène des arts, et fondateur d'une Maison de la Charité chrestienne destinée à soigner les pauvres parisiens dans les années difficiles du règne de Henri III, Houel est profondément attaché aux ouvrages d’édification morale que l'on destinait à l’éducation des Princes, ou des reines et « Illustres dames »: il y puise la certitude absolue de la complémentarité de tous ses projets personnels, artistiques et religieux. S'il ne fait plus aucun doute que Boaistuau apportait sciemment en 1555 des additions au De regis officio écrit par Josse Clichtove, une telle visée chrétienne du Chelidonius nous permet d'y lire en sourdine la permanence de la « Pré-Contreréforme » parisienne de 1519 et d’éclairer davantage, en quelque sorte a posteriori, la position de Boaistuau en 1555.
What Did Matthieu Beroald Transmit to François Béroalde de Verville?
Authors: Kenny Neil
Published: November 2017

Many tangible and intangible goods were passed down within early modern families. The goods included texts and the knowledge that texts communicated. But how did they relate to the other goods transmitted within families? That question is explored in relation to the scholar Matthieu Beroald and his son François Béroalde de Verville, author of the famous Moyen de parvenir. Matthieu transmitted to François a humanist education, at least one printed volume (probably more), an interest in certain topics (especially chronology), a network of contacts, but little wealth. And François soon donated to his sisters what wealth he did receive. His relationship to his intellectual inheritance from his father was complex and ambivalent. Aspects of François's attitude towards knowledge may have stemmed, via his father, from two grandfather-figures: Matthieu's own father (a barber-surgeon) and Matthieu's relative and benefactor François Vatable (the Hebraicist).
Efficacy of Web-Based Weight Loss Maintenance Programs: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Standard Features Versus the Addition of Enhanced Personalized Feedback over 12 Months
Authors: Collins Clare E. , Morgan Philip J. , Hutchesson Melinda J. , Oldmeadow Christopher , Barker Daniel , Callister Robin
Published: November 2017

Few randomized controlled trials (RCT) have evaluated the efficacy of web-based programs targeting maintenance of lost weight. The aims of this study were to evaluate two versions of a commercially available web-based weight loss maintenance (WLM) program and examine whether the provision of enhanced feedback was associated with better WLM. The study was an assessor-blinded RCT of change in body mass index (BMI) over 12 months WLM. Participants were 227 adults (44% male, 42.3 ± 10.1 years, BMI 30.4 ± 4.1 kg/m2) randomized to either a basic (Basic WLM) or enhanced program with additional support (Enhanced WLM). Analysis was intention-to-treat with imputation using last observation carried forward. There was no significant weight rebound from the start of weight loss maintenance to 12 months for either group (mean: basic 1.3%, enhanced 1.5%) and limited change in secondary outcomes for either program. There were no significant between-group differences in the primary outcome of change in BMI (basic −0.5 (1.9) kg/m2, enhanced −0.5 (1.6) kg/m2, p = 0.93). In conclusion, a web-based WLM program was effective in preventing weight regain over one year following weight loss. However, the addition of personalized e-feedback provided limited additional benefits compared to a standard program. Given the potential reach of web-based approaches, further research examining which web-based program components optimize weight outcomes long-term is required.
Communication Characteristics of Faulted Overhead High Voltage Power Lines at Low Radio Frequencies
Authors: Suljanović Nermin , Mujčić Aljo , Zajc Matej
Published: November 2017

This paper derives a model of high-voltage overhead power line under fault conditions at low radio frequencies. The derived model is essential for design of communication systems to reliably transfer information over high voltage power lines. In addition, the model can also benefit advanced systems for power-line fault detection and classification exploiting the phenomenon of changed conditions on faulted power line, resulting in change of low radio frequency signal propagation. The methodology used in the paper is based on the multiconductor system analysis and propagation of electromagnetic waves over the power lines. The model for the high voltage power line under normal operation is validated using actual measurements obtained on 400 kV power line. The proposed model of faulted power lines extends the validated power-line model under normal operation. Simulation results are provided for typical power line faults and typical fault locations. Results clearly indicate sensitivity of power-line frequency response on different fault types.
From Circular to Bessel Functions: A Transition through the Umbral Method
Authors: Dattoli Giuseppe , Di Palma Emanuele , Licciardi Silvia , Sabia Elio
Published: November 2017

A common environment in which to place Bessel and circular functions is envisaged. We show, by the use of operational methods, that the Gaussian provides the umbral image of these functions. We emphasize the role of the spherical Bessel functions and a family of associated auxiliary polynomials, as transition elements between these families of functions. The consequences of this point of view and the relevant impact on the study of the properties of special functions is carefully discussed.
The Influence of Differently Shaped Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with NIPAM-Based Hydrogels on the Release of Cytochrome C
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Sulalit , Sharma Anuvansh , Glomm Wilhelm
Published: November 2017

Here, we report the synthesis and functionalization of five different shapes of Au nanoparticles (NPs), namely nanorods, tetrahexahedral, bipyramids, nanomakura, and spheres with PEG and poly (N-isopropylacrylamide)-acrylic acid (pNIPAm-AAc) hydrogels. The anisotropic NPs are synthesized using seed-mediated growth in the presence of silver. The NPs have been characterized using Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), zeta potential measurements, UV-Visible spectrophotometry (UV-Vis), and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (S(T)EM). Cyt C was loaded into the PEG-hydrogel-coated AuNPs using a modified breathing-in method. Loading efficiencies (up to 80%), dependent on particle geometry, concentration, and hydrogel content, were obtained. Release experiments conducted at high temperature (40 °C) and acidic pH (3) showed higher release for larger sizes of PEG-hydrogel-coated AuNPs, with temporal transition from spherical to thin film release geometry. AuNP shape, size, number density, and hydrogel content are found to influence the loading as well as release kinetics of Cyt C from these systems.
A Study of Ground Movements in Brussels (Belgium) Monitored by Persistent Scatterer Interferometry over a 25-Year Period
Authors: Declercq Pierre-Yves , Walstra Jan , Gérard Pierre , Pirard Eric , Perissin Daniele , Meyvis Bruno , Devleeschouwer Xavier
Published: November 2017

The time series of Synthetic Aperture Radar data acquired by four satellite missions (including ERS, Envisat, TerraSAR-X and Sentinel 1) were processed using Persistent Scatterer interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) techniques. The processed datasets provide a nearly continuous coverage from 1992 to 2017 over the Brussels Region (Belgium) and give evidence of ongoing, slow ground deformations. The results highlight an area of uplift located in the heart of the city, with a cumulative ground displacement of ±4 cm over a 25-year period. The rates of uplift appear to have decreased from 2 to 4 mm/year during the ERS acquisition period (1992–2006) down to 0.5–1 mm/year for the Sentinel 1 data (2014–2017). Uplift of the city centre is attributed to a reduction of groundwater extraction from the deeper (Cenozoic-Paleozoic) aquifers, related to the deindustrialization of the city centre since the 1970s. The groundwater levels attested by piezometers in these aquifers show a clear recharge trend which induced the uplift. Some areas of subsidence in the river valleys such as the Maelbeek can be related to the natural settlement of soft, young alluvial deposits, possibly increased by the load of buildings.
WebGIS and Geospatial Technologies for Landscape Education on Personalized Learning Contexts
Authors: De Lázaro Torres María , De Miguel González Rafael , Morales Yago Francisco
Published: November 2017

The value of landscape, as part of collective heritage, can be acquired by geographic information systems (GIS) due to the multilayer approach of the spatial configuration. Proficiency in geospatial technologies to collect, process, analyze, interpret, visualize, and communicate geographic information is being increased by undergraduate and graduate students but, in particular, by those who are training to become geography teachers at the secondary education level. Some teaching experiences, using personalized learning, distance learning methodology, and GIS, focused on education aims to integrate students and enhance their understanding of the landscape are shown. Opportunities offered by WebGIS will be described, through quantitative tools and techniques that will allow this modality of learning and improve its effectiveness. Results of this research show that students, through geospatial technologies, learn the landscape as a diversity of elements, but also the complexity of physical and human factors involved. Several conclusions will be highlighted: (i) the contribution of geospatial training to education on the landscape and for sustainable development; (ii) spatial analysis as a means of skills acquisition regarding measures for landscape conservation; and (iii) expanding and applying acquired knowledge to other geographic spaces.
GIS-Based Evaluation of Spatial Interactions by Geographic Disproportionality of Industrial Diversity
Authors: Lee Jemyung , Hoshino Satoshi
Published: November 2017

Diversity of regional industry is regarded as a key factor for regional development, as it has a positive relationship with economic stability, which attracts population. This paper focuses on how the spatial imbalance of industrial diversity contributes to the population change caused by inter-regional migration. This paper introduces a spatial interaction model for the Geographic Information System (GIS)-based simulation of the spatial interactions to evaluate the demographic attraction force. The proposed model adopts the notions of gravity, entropy, and virtual work. An industrial classification by profit level is introduced and its diversity is quantified with the entropy of information theory. The introduced model is applied to the cases of 207 regions in South Korea. Spatial interactions are simulated with an optimized model and their resultant forces, the demographic attraction forces, are compared with observed net migration for verification. The results show that the evaluated attraction forces from industrial diversity have a very significant, positive, and moderate relationship with net migration, while other conventional factors of industry, population, economy, and the job market do not. This paper concludes that the geographical quality of industrial diversity has positive and significant effects on population change by migration.
Intelligence and Sensory Sensitivity as Predictors of Emotion Recognition Ability
Authors: Schlegel Katja , Witmer Joëlle , Rammsayer Thomas
Published: November 2017

The ability to recognize emotions from nonverbal cues (emotion recognition ability, ERA) is a core component of emotional intelligence, which has recently been conceptualized as a second-stratum factor of intelligence (MacCann et al., 2014). However, only few studies have empirically investigated the link between ERA, intelligence, and other mental abilities. The present study examined the associations between ERA, fluid intelligence, and sensory sensitivity in a sample of 214 participants. Results showed that both fluid intelligence and sensory sensitivity explained unique portions of variance in ERA. These findings suggest that future studies on ERA should include intelligence measures to assess the incremental validity of ERA above and beyond intelligence.
Temperature-Dependent Photoluminescence Emission from Unstrained and Strained GaSe Nanosheets
Authors: Zhang Duan , Jia Tanhua , Dong Ran , Chen Dengyun
Published: November 2017

Two-dimensional AIIIBVI layered semiconductors have recently attracted great attention due to their potential applications in piezo-phototronics and optoelectronics. Here, we report the temperature-dependent photoluminescence (PL) of strained and unstrained GaSe flakes. It is found that, as the temperature increases, the PL from both the strained (wrinkled) and unstrained (flat) positions show a prominent red-shift to low energies. However, for the flat case, the slope of PL energy versus temperature at the range of 163–283 K is about −0.36 meV/K, which is smaller than that of the wrinkled one (−0.5 meV/K). This is because more strain can be introduced at the freestanding wrinkled position during the temperature increase, thus accelerates the main PL peak (peak I, direct band gap transition) shift to lower energy. Additionally, for the wrinkled sheet, three new exciton states (peaks III, IV, and V) appear at the red side of peak I, and the emission intensity is highly dependent on the temperature variation. These peaks can be attributed to the bound exciton recombination. These findings demonstrate an interesting route for optical band gap tuning of the layered GaSe sheet, which are important for future optoelectronic device design.
Rapid Degradation of Azo Dyes by Melt-Spun Mg-Zn-Ca Metallic Glass in Artificial Seawater
Authors: Chen Peng , Hu Ximei , Qi Yumin , Wang Xin , Li Zongjia , Zhao Lichen , Liu Shuiqing , Cui Chunxiang
Published: November 2017

Mg-Zn-Ca metallic glass (MG) is effective for degrading azo dyes; however, the related surface evolution and degradation mechanisms are little known. We comparatively investigated the initial surface corrosion morphologies of melt-spun Mg66Zn30Ca4 MG in deionized water and artificial seawater. It was found that the basic corrosion behavior of the MG was the same, except that the corrosion process was accelerated in seawater. The presence of NaCl obviously promotes the formation of nano-ZnO on the surface of ribbons, causing the rapid degradation of azo dyes due to the photocatalytic effect. The degradation efficiency when combined with 3.5 wt % NaCl was over 100 times higher than that without NaCl. This indicates that Mg-Zn-Ca MG ribbons are effective additives for the degradation of azo dyes in seawater.
Augmented Reality: Advances in Diagnostic Imaging
Authors: Douglas David , Wilke Clifford , Gibson J. , Boone John , Wintermark Max
Published: November 2017

In recent years, advances in medical imaging have provided opportunities for enhanced diagnosis and characterization of diseases including cancer. The improved spatial resolution provides outstanding detail of intricate anatomical structures, but has challenged physicians on how to effectively and efficiently review the extremely large datasets of over 1000 images. Standard volume rendering attempts to tackle this problem as it provides a display of 3D information on a flat 2D screen, but it lacks depth perception and has poor human–machine interface (HMI). Most recently, Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) with depth 3-dimensional (D3D) imaging provides depth perception through binocular vision, head tracking for improved HMI and other key AR features. In this article, we will discuss current and future medical applications of AR including assessing breast cancer. We contend that leveraging AR technology may enhance diagnosis, save cost and improve patient care.
ZnO Nanoparticles Protect RNA from Degradation Better than DNA
Authors: McCall Jayden , Smith Joshua , Marquardt Kelsey , Knight Katelin , Bane Hunter , Barber Alice , DeLong Robert
Published: November 2017

Gene therapy and RNA delivery require a nanoparticle (NP) to stabilize these nucleic acids when administered in vivo. The presence of degradative hydrolytic enzymes within these environments limits the nucleic acids’ pharmacologic activity. This study compared the effects of nanoscale ZnO and MgO in the protection afforded to DNA and RNA from degradation by DNase, serum or tumor homogenate. For double-stranded plasmid DNA degradation by DNase, our results suggest that the presence of MgO NP can protect DNA from DNase digestion at an elevated temperature (65 °C), a biochemical activity not present in ZnO NP-containing samples at any temperature. In this case, intact DNA was remarkably present for MgO NP after ethidium bromide staining and agarose gel electrophoresis where these same stained DNA bands were notably absent for ZnO NP. Anticancer RNA, polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) is now considered an anti-metastatic RNA targeting agent and as such there is great interest in its delivery by NP. For it to function, the NP must protect it from degradation in serum and the tumor environment. Surprisingly, ZnO NP protected the RNA from degradation in either serum-containing media or melanoma tumor homogenate after gel electrophoretic analysis, whereas the band was much more diminished in the presence of MgO. For both MgO and ZnO NP, buffer-dependent rescue from degradation occurred. These data suggest a fundamental difference in the ability of MgO and ZnO NP to stabilize nucleic acids with implications for DNA and RNA delivery and therapy.
Rationally Controlled Synthesis of CdSexTe1−x Alloy Nanocrystals and Their Application in Efficient Graded Bandgap Solar Cells
Authors: Wen Shiya , Li Miaozi , Yang Junyu , Mei Xianglin , Wu Bin , Liu Xiaolin , Heng Jingxuan , Qin Donghuan , Hou Lintao , Xu Wei , Wang Dan
Published: November 2017

CdSexTe1−x semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs), being rod-shaped/irregular dot-shaped in morphology, have been fabricated via a simple hot-injection method. The NCs composition is well controlled through varying molar ratios of Se to Te precursors. Through changing the composition of the CdSexTe1−x NCs, the spectral absorption of the NC thin film between 570–800 nm is proved to be tunable. It is shown that the bandgap of homogeneously alloyed CdSexTe1−x active thin film is nonlinearly correlated with the different compositions, which is perceived as optical bowing. The solar cell devices based on CdSexTe1−x NCs with the structure of ITO/ZnO/CdSe/CdSexTe1−x/MoOx/Au and the graded bandgap ITO/ZnO/CdSe(w/o)/CdSexTe1−x/CdTe/MoOx/Au are systematically evaluated. It was found that the performance of solar cells degrades almost linearly with the increase of alloy NC film thickness with respect to ITO/ZnO/CdSe/CdSe0.2Te0.8/MoOx/Au. From another perspective, in terms of the graded bandgap structure of ITO/ZnO/CdSe/CdSexTe1−x/CdTe/MoOx/Au, the performance is improved in contrast with its single-junction analogues. The graded bandgap structure is proved to be efficient when absorbing spectrum and the solar cells fabricated under the structure of ITO/ZnO/CdSe0.8Te0.2/CdSe0.2Te0.8/CdTe/MoOx/Au indicate power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.37%, a value among the highest for solution-processed inversely-structured CdSexTe1−x NC solar cells. As the NC solar cells are solution-processed under environmental conditions, they are promising for fabricating solar cells at low cost, roll by roll and in large area.
Organic Polymers as Porogenic Structure Matrices for Mesoporous Alumina and Magnesia
Authors: Chen Zimei , Weinberger Christian , Tiemann Michael , Kuckling Dirk
Published: November 2017

Mesoporous alumina and magnesia were prepared using various polymers, poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), poly(N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide) (PHPMA), and poly(dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAAm), as porogenic structure matrices. Mesoporous alumina exhibits large Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas up to 365 m2 g−1, while mesoporous magnesium oxide possesses BET surface areas around 111 m2 g−1. Variation of the polymers has little impact on the structural properties of the products. The calcination of the polymer/metal oxide composite materials benefits from the fact that the polymer decomposition is catalyzed by the freshly formed metal oxide.
A Generalized Polynomial Chaos-Based Approach to Analyze the Impacts of Process Deviations on MEMS Beams
Authors: Gao Lili , Zhou Zai-Fa , Huang Qing-An
Published: November 2017

A microstructure beam is one of the fundamental elements in MEMS devices like cantilever sensors, RF/optical switches, varactors, resonators, etc. It is still difficult to precisely predict the performance of MEMS beams with the current available simulators due to the inevitable process deviations. Feasible numerical methods are required and can be used to improve the yield and profits of the MEMS devices. In this work, process deviations are considered to be stochastic variables, and a newly-developed numerical method, i.e., generalized polynomial chaos (GPC), is applied for the simulation of the MEMS beam. The doubly-clamped polybeam has been utilized to verify the accuracy of GPC, compared with our Monte Carlo (MC) approaches. Performance predictions have been made on the residual stress by achieving its distributions in GaAs Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC)-based MEMS beams. The results show that errors are within 1% for the results of GPC approximations compared with the MC simulations. Appropriate choices of the 4-order GPC expansions with orthogonal terms have also succeeded in reducing the MC simulation labor. The mean value of the residual stress, concluded from experimental tests, shares an error about 1.1% with that of the 4-order GPC method. It takes a probability around 54.3% for the 4-order GPC approximation to attain the mean test value of the residual stress. The corresponding yield occupies over 90 percent around the mean within the twofold standard deviations.
Designing Sustainable Cold Chains for Long-Range Food Distribution: Energy-Effective Corridors on the Silk Road Belt
Authors: Gallo Andrea , Accorsi Riccardo , Baruffaldi Giulia , Manzini Riccardo
Published: November 2017

Modern food production-distribution processes represent a critical stressor for the environment and for natural ecosystems. The rising flows of food across growing and consumption areas couple with the higher expectations of consumers for the quality of products and compel the intensive use of refrigerated rooms and transport means throughout the food supply chain. In order to aid the design of sustainable cold chains that incorporate such aspects, this paper proposes a mixed integer linear programming model to minimize the total energy consumption associated with the cold operations experienced by perishable products. This model is intended for food traders, logistics practitioners, retail managers, and importers collaboratively called to design and plan a cost and environmentally effective supply strategy, physical channels, and infrastructures for cold chains. The proposed model is validated with a case study inspired by the distribution of two example food products, namely fresh apples and ice cream, along the New Silk Road connecting Europe and China. The illustrated analysis investigates the effect of alternative routes and transport modes on the sustainability of the cold chain. It is found that the most energy-efficient route for ice cream is via rail over a northern route and, for apples, is via a southern maritime route, and, for these two routes, the ratios of the total energy consumed to the energy content of the food are 760 and 913, respectively. By incorporating the energy lost due to the food quality decay, the model identifies the optimal route to adopt in accordance with the shelf life and the conservation temperature of each product.
Measurement of Regional Agricultural Sustainable Development System Based on Dissipative Structure Theory: A Case Study in Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Deng Fumin , Liu Canmian , Liang Xuedong
Published: November 2017

Aiming at the sustainable development issue of agriculture, the regional agricultural sustainable development system is regarded as a complex giant dissipative system in this paper by using the theory of dissipative structure. In order to effectively measure the coordinated development status and orderly evolution trend of the system, the more comprehensive and scientific index system was constructed from the framework of economy, society, technology, resource and environment (ESTRE). The measurement model of the system was constructed by using the method of information entropy, and an empirical analysis of Sichuan province from 2005 to 2015 was conducted. The results show that with the advancement of the years, the agricultural sustainable development system in Sichuan province is evolving in a more orderly and coordinated direction. The measurement results are in agreement with the actual situation and verify the effectiveness of the system measurement model in the regional agricultural sustainable development measure.
Uncovering the Green, Blue, and Grey Water Footprint and Virtual Water of Biofuel Production in Brazil: A Nexus Perspective
Authors: Munoz Castillo Raul , Feng Kuishuang , Hubacek Klaus , Sun Laixiang , Guilhoto Joaquim , Miralles-Wilhelm Fernando
Published: November 2017

Brazil plays a major role in the global biofuel economy as the world’s second largest producer and consumer and the largest exporter of ethanol. Its demand is expected to significantly increase in coming years, largely driven by national and international carbon mitigation targets. However, biofuel crops require significant amounts of water and land resources that could otherwise be used for the production of food, urban water supply, or energy generation. Given Brazil’s uneven spatial distribution of water resources among regions, a potential expansion of ethanol production will need to take into account regional or local water availability, as an increased water demand for irrigation would put further pressure on already water-scarce regions and compete with other users. By applying an environmentally extended multiregional input-output (MRIO) approach, we uncover the scarce water footprint and the interregional virtual water flows associated with sugarcane-derived biofuel production driven by domestic final consumption and international exports in 27 states in Brazil. Our results show that bio-ethanol is responsible for about one third of the total sugarcane water footprint besides sugar and other processed food production. We found that richer states such as São Paulo benefit by accruing a higher share of economic value added from exporting ethanol as part of global value chains while increasing water stress in poorer states through interregional trade. We also found that, in comparison with other crops, sugarcane has a comparative advantage when rainfed while showing a comparative disadvantage as an irrigated crop; a tradeoff to be considered when planning irrigation infrastructure and bioethanol production expansion.
The 17th Rocky Mountain Virology Association Meeting
Authors: Rovnak Joel , Perera Rushika , Hopken Matthew , Read Jenna , Waller Derrick , Cohrs Randall
Published: November 2017

Since 2000, scientists and students from the greater Rocky Mountain region, along with invited speakers, both national and international, have gathered at the Mountain Campus of Colorado State University to discuss their area of study, present recent findings, establish or strengthen collaborations, and mentor the next generation of virologists and prionologists through formal presentations and informal discussions concerning science, grantsmanship and network development. This year, approximately 100 people attended the 17th annual Rocky Mountain Virology Association meeting, that began with a keynote presentation, and featured 29 oral and 35 poster presentations covering RNA and DNA viruses, prions, virus-host interactions and guides to successful mentorship. Since the keynote address focused on the structure and function of Zika and related flaviviruses, a special session was held to discuss RNA control. The secluded meeting at the foot of the Colorado Rocky Mountains gave ample time for in-depth discussions amid the peak of fall colors in the aspen groves while the random bear provided excitement. On behalf of the Rocky Mountain Virology Association, this report summarizes the >50 reports.
Mechanisms of Entry and Endosomal Pathway of African Swine Fever Virus
Authors: Sánchez Elena G. , Pérez-Núñez Daniel , Revilla Yolanda
Published: November 2017

African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) causes a serious swine disease that is endemic in Africa and Sardinia and presently spreading in Russia and neighboring countries, including Poland and recently, the Czech Republic. This uncontrolled dissemination is a world-wide threat, as no specific protection or vaccine is available. ASFV is a very complex icosahedral, enveloped virus about 200 nm in diameter, which infects several members of pigs. The virus enters host cells by receptor-mediated endocytosis that depends on energy, vacuolar pH and temperature. The specific receptor(s) and attachment factor(s) involved in viral entry are still unknown, although macropinocytosis and clathrin-dependent mechanisms have been proposed. After internalization, ASFV traffics through the endolysosomal system. The capsid and inner envelope are found in early endosomes or macropinosomes early after infection, colocalizing with EEA1 and Rab5, while at later times they co-localize with markers of late endosomes and lysosomes, such as Rab7 or Lamp 1. A direct relationship has been established between the maturity of the endosomal pathway and the progression of infection in the cell. Finally, ASFV uncoating first involves the loss of the outer capsid layers, and later fusion of the inner membrane with endosomes, releasing the nude core into the cytosol.
Techniques for High-contrast Imaging in Multi-star Systems. II. Multi-star Wavefront Control
Authors: Sirbu D. , Thomas S. , Belikov R. , Bendek E.
Published: November 2017

Direct imaging of exoplanets represents a challenge for astronomical instrumentation due to the high-contrast ratio and small angular separation between the host star and the faint planet. Multi-star systems pose additional challenges for coronagraphic instruments due to the diffraction and aberration leakage caused by companion stars. Consequently, many scientifically valuable multi-star systems are excluded from direct imaging target lists for exoplanet surveys and characterization missions. Multi-star Wavefront Control (MSWC) is a technique that uses a coronagraphic instrument’s deformable mirror (DM) to create high-contrast regions in the focal plane in the presence of multiple stars. MSWC uses “non-redundant” modes on the DM to independently control speckles from each star in the dark zone. Our previous paper also introduced the Super-Nyquist wavefront control technique, which uses a diffraction grating to generate high-contrast regions beyond the Nyquist limit (nominal region correctable by the DM). These two techniques can be combined as MSWC-s to generate high-contrast regions for multi-star systems at wide (Super-Nyquist) angular separations, while MSWC-0 refers to close (Sub-Nyquist) angular separations. As a case study, a high-contrast wavefront control simulation that applies these techniques shows that the habitable region of the Alpha Centauri system can be imaged with a small aperture at

mean raw contrast in 10% broadband light in one-sided dark holes from 1.6–5.5 λ/D. Another case study using a larger 2.4 m aperture telescope such as the Wide-Field Infrared Survey Telescope uses these techniques to image the habitable zone of Alpha Centauri at

mean raw contrast in monochromatic light.
A Precise Measurement of the Orbital Period Parameters of Cygnus X-3
Authors: Bhargava Yash , Rao A. R. , Singh K. P. , Choudhury Manojendu , Bhattacharyya S. , Chandra S. , Dewangan G. C. , Mukerjee K. , Stewart G. C. , Bhattacharya D. , Mithun N. P. S. , Vadawale S. V.
Published: November 2017

We present X-ray light curves of Cygnus X-3 as measured by the recently launched AstroSat satellite. The light curve folded over the binary period of 4.8 hr shows a remarkable stability over the past 45 years and we find that we can use this information to measure the zero point to better than 100 s. We revisit the historical binary phase measurements and examine the stability of the binary period over 45 years. We present a new binary ephemeris with the period and period derivative determined to an accuracy much better than previously reported. We do not find any evidence for a second derivative in the period variation. The precise binary period measurements, however, indicate a hint of short-term episodic variations in periods. Interestingly, these short-term period variations coincide with the period of enhanced jet activity exhibited by the source. We discuss the implications of these observations on the nature of the binary system.
Outflow-confined H ii Regions. II. The Early Break-out Phase
Authors: Tanaka Kei E. I. , Tan Jonathan C. , Staff Jan E. , Zhang Yichen
Published: November 2017

In this series of papers, we model the formation and evolution of the photoionized region and its observational signatures during massive star formation. Here, we focus on the early breakout of the photoionized region into the outflow cavity. Using results of 3D magnetohydrodynamic-outflow simulations and protostellar evolution calculations, we perform a post-processing radiative transfer. The photoionized region first appears at a protostellar mass of

in our fiducial model and is confined to within 10–100 au by the dense inner outflow, which is similar to some of the observed very small hypercompact H ii regions. Since the ionizing luminosity of the massive protostar increases dramatically as the Kelvin–Helmholtz (KH) contraction proceeds, the photoionized region breaks out to the entire outflow region in ≲10,000 year. Accordingly, the radio free–free emission brightens significantly in this stage. In our fiducial model, the radio luminosity at 10 GHz changes from

at

to

at

, while the infrared luminosity increases by less than a factor of two. The radio spectral index also changes in the break-out phase from the optically thick value of ∼2 to the partially optically thin value of ∼0.6. Additionally, we demonstrate that short-timescale variation in the free–free flux would be induced by an accretion burst. The outflow density is enhanced in the accretion burst phase, which leads to a smaller ionized region and weaker free–free emission. The radio luminosity may decrease by one order of magnitude during such bursts, while the infrared luminosity is much less affected because internal protostellar luminosity dominates over accretion luminosity after the KH contraction starts. Such a variability may be observable on timescales as short 10–100 year if accretion bursts are driven by disk instabilities.
Update on Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Clinical Features, Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Assessment, and Treatment
Authors: Kelly Megan M. , Phillips Katharine A.
Published: November 2017

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is common and characterized by distressing or impairing preoccupations with perceived defects in one's bodily appearance as well as repetitive, compulsive behaviors aimed at hiding, improving, checking, or coping with appearance concerns. Avoidance of social situations is common. BDD is associated with high rates of suicidal ideation and behavior, co-occurring depression and substance use disorders, psychiatric hospitalization, and notably poor psychosocial functioning. Despite BDD's prevalence, severity, and morbidity, this disorder is often underrecognized and undertreated. Cosmetic treatment is often sought but not recommended. First-line treatments consist of serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (often at high doses) and cognitive-behavioral therapy that is tailored to BDD's unique symptoms. This review presents up-to-date information on the clinical features, epidemiology, pathogenesis, assessment, and treatment of BDD.[Psychiatr Ann.2017;47(11):552–558.]
Displaced Intra-articular Calcaneal Fractures: Classification and Treatment
Authors: Wei Ning , Zhou Yabin , Chang Wenli , Zhang Yingze , Chen Wei
Published: November 2017

The calcaneus is the most commonly fractured tarsal bone. Displaced intraarticular calcaneal fractures are usually caused by a fall from height with one or both heels directly hitting the ground. Displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures are complex and highly disabling injuries. There is ongoing debate regarding the optimal treatment for each type of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fracture. This review aims to summarize the classification of, various treatment options for, prevention of perioperative complications in, and management algorithms for displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(6):e921–e929.]