bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pazopanib Reduces Phosphorylated Tau Levels and Alters Astrocytes in a Mouse Model of Tauopathy
Authors: Javidnia Monica , Hebron Michaeline L. , Xin Yue , Kinney Nikolas G. , Moussa Charbel E-H.
Published: September 2017

Hyperphosphorylation and aggregation of tau protein is a critical factor in many neurodegenerative diseases. These diseases are increasing in prevalence, and there are currently no cures. Previous work from our group and others has shown that tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) can stimulate autophagy, decrease pathological proteins, and improve symptoms in models of neurodegeneration. Here we examined the role of pazopanib in mouse models that express either human mutant P301L tau (TauP301L) or triple mutant amyloid precursor protein (3x-AβPP). The TauP301L mouse expresses P301L tau under the control of a prion promoter in both neurons and astrocytes, reminiscent of some human tauopathies. Pazopanib crosses the blood-brain barrier with no detectable peripheral off-side effects, and decreases p-tau in TauP301L mice. Pazopanib reaches a brain concentration sufficient for inhibition of several tyrosine kinases, including vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs). Further, pazopanib does not affect microglia but reduces astrocyte levels toward nontransgenic controls in TauP301L mice. Pazopanib does not alter amyloid beta levels or astrocytes in 3x-AβPP mice but modulates a number of inflammatory markers (IP-10, MIP-1α, MIP-1β, and RANTES). These data suggest that pazopanib may be involved in p-tau clearance and modulation of astrocytic activity in models of tauopathies.
Conducted electromagnetic noise characteristics of pantograph arc and its regression model
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Guo Fengyi , Yan Xiaoming , Wang Dan , Wang Meng , Chen Zhonghua
Published: September 2017

With the continuous increase of electric locomotive running speed, pantograph arc occurs more and more frequently. The conducted electromagnetic noise caused by pantograph arc will effect seriously normal operation of on-board equipment. With the self-developed electromagnetic noise experimental system, eighty-six groups of conducted electromagnetic noise experiments under different sliding speed, contact pressure, contact current conditions were carried out with single-factor experimental method. Total harmonic distortion (THD) of contact current was proposed and used to reflect the interference level of the conducted electromagnetic noise. The effect of sliding speed, contact pressure and contact current on THD was analyzed. A regression model of the conducted electromagnetic noise was established by using support vector machine (SVM). The independent variable of the model are sliding speed, contact pressure and contact current. The dependent variable of the model is THD. The model parameters were optimized by using particle swarm optimization algorithm. The effectiveness of the regression model was verified with experimental results. It can be used to further understand and forecast the conducted electromagnetic noise.
Image Quality in Augmented Binocular Vision: QoE Approximations with QoS and EEG
Authors: Seeling Patrick
Published: September 2017

Augmented reality (AR) applications become increasingly popular, however, little is known about how multimedia consumption interplays with the Quality of Experience (QoE) in these settings. We experimentally evaluate binocular vision augmentation with optical see-through devices by contrasting QoE, expressed by Mean Opinion Scores (MOS), with a ground truth reference data set. We find that the QoE in AR settings (i) is higher for small media impairments and lower for high impairment levels compared to opaque settings, (ii) exhibits an emerging quantifiable relationship with the QoE in traditional setups, (iii) can be approached with common objective image quality metrics as Quality of Service (QoS) factors, and (iv) exhibits a relationship between the Low Gamma frequency band levels determined with consumer-grade electroencephalograms (EEG) and image quality levels as rated by the participants.
Experiences with Using Bayes Factors for Regression Analysis in Biostatistical Setting
Authors: Ferenci Tamás , Kovács Levente
Published: September 2017

Null hypothesis significance testing dominates the current biostatistical practice. However, this routine has many flaws, in particular p-values are very often misused and misinterpreted. Several solutions has been suggested to remedy this situation, the application of Bayes Factors being perhaps the most well-known. Nevertheless, even Bayes Factors are very seldom applied in medical research. This paper investigates the application of Bayes Factors in the analysis of a realistic medical problem using actual data from a representative US survey, and compares the results to those obtained with traditional means. Linear regression is used as an example as it is one of the most basic tools in biostatistics. The effect of sample size and sampling variation is investigated (with resampling) as well as the impact of the choice of prior. Results show that there is a strong relationship between p-values and Bayes Factors, especially for large samples. The application of Bayes Factors should be encouraged evenin spite of this, as the message they convey is much more instructive and scientifically correct than the current typical practice.
Detection of Trend in Hydrologic Variables Using Non-Parametric Test: A Study on Surma River in Northeastern Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M. S. , Sikder M. B.
Published: September 2017

An initiative has been taken to investigate the trends in discharge and water level (WL) of the Surma River in northeastern Bangladesh. The daily time series data of discharge and WL from two stations named Kanairghat and Sylhet with a period of 42 years (1973  2014) and 35 years (1980  2014) respectively have been analyzed. Non parametric Mann-Kendall Test has been applied to detect the trend and Sens slope estimator is used to measure the slope of the trends. In Kanairghat station, annual mean WL has significant trend (P: 0.03); while, annual mean discharge, mean monsoon discharge, annual maximum discharge, mean monsoon WL, and annual maximum WL shows insignificant trend (P: 0.24, 0.46, 0.14, 0.05, and 0.12). In Sylhet station, annual mean discharge, annual maximum discharge, and annual mean WL have significant trend (P: 0.03, 0.004, and 0.02). In other hand, mean monsoon discharge, mean monsoon WL, and annual maximum WL in Sylhet station has insignificant trend (P: 0.46, 0.13, and 0.21). According to Sens slope statistics, all of the detected trends, except annual maximum WL at Sylhet station, are downward. This study recommends a comprehensive water management scheme should be taken to ensure sustainable use of the river water.
Volatile Semiochemical Mediated Plant Defense in Cereals: A Novel Strategy for Crop Protection
Authors: Tamiru Amanuel , Khan Zeyaur
Published: September 2017

Plants have evolved highly intriguing ways of defending themselves against insect attacks, including through emission of defense volatiles. These volatiles serve the plant’s defense by directly repelling phytophagous insects and/or indirectly through attracting natural enemies antagonistic to the herbivores. Several laboratory studies established the potential of improving plant resistance against insect attacks by manipulating the plant-derived volatile semiochemicals emissions. Yet, more efforts need to be conducted to translate the promising laboratory studies to fight economically-important crop pests under real field conditions. This is needed to address an increasing demand for alternative pest control options driven by ecological and environmental costs associated with the use of broad-spectrum insecticides. The practical examples discussed in this review paper demonstrate the real prospect of exploiting an inducible and constitutive plant volatile semiochemicals for developing novel and ecologically-sustainable pest management strategies to protect cereal crops from damaging insect pests.
Experimental Study on Robustness of an Eddy Current-Tuned Mass Damper
Authors: Chen Junda , Lu Guangtao , Li Yourong , Wang Tao , Wang Wenxi , Song Gangbing
Published: September 2017

In this paper, an eddy current tuned mass damper (ECTMD) is utilized to control the vibration of a cantilever beam. The robustness of the ECTMD against frequency detuning is experimentally studied in cases of both free vibration and forced vibration. The natural frequency of the cantilever beam can be adjusted by changing the location of a lumped mass. For purposes of comparison with the ECTMD, the robustness of a tuned mass damper (TMD) is also studied. The experimental results in the free vibration case indicate that the ECTMD works well both in tuned and detuned situations, and the equivalent damping ratio of the cantilever beam equipped with the ECTMD is 2.08~5.91 times that of the TMD. However, the TMD only suppresses the free vibration effectively in the tuned situation. With forced vibration, the experimental results also demonstrate the robustness of the ECTMD in vibration suppression in detuned cases. On the other hand, the cantilever beam with TMD experiences 1.63~2.99 times the peak vibration of that of the ECTMD control.
Properties of Aged GFRP Reinforcement Grids Related to Fatigue Life and Alkaline Environment
Authors: Micelli Francesco , Corradi Marco , Aiello Maria , Borri Antonio
Published: September 2017

In recent years, even if Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites have been widely used for strengthening of civil buildings, a new generation of materials has been studied and proposed for historical masonry construction. These buildings, mainly made of stone work, are common in many areas of Europe and Asia and recent earthquakes has been the cause of many catastrophic failures. The brittleness of unreinforced historic masonry can be considerably reduced using new retrofitting lighter-weight materials such FRP, even if limitations were evidenced due to material and mechanical compatibility with poor substrates. Thus, fibrous reinforcements were used as long fibres incorporated into a cement or lime matrix, which better match with the properties of ancient masonry. The use of low strength fibers such as glass and basalt, respect to carbon, in presence of an alkaline matrix brought out durability issues, due to the chemical vulnerability of common glass and basalt fibres. The objective of this research is to explore the effects of selected aqueous environments and fatigue loading on the mechanical and physical properties of composite grids, made of E-CR (Electrical/Chemical Resistance) glass fibers and epoxy-vinylester resin, used as tensile reinforcement in new composite reinforced mortar systems. Glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) coupons were subjected to tensile testing and a severe protocol of durability tests, including alkaline environment and fatigue tensile loads. Accelerated ageing tests were used to simulate long-term degradation in terms of chemical attack and consequent reduction of tensile strength. The ageing protocol consisted of immersion at 40 °C in alkaline bath made by deionized water and Ca(OH)2, 0.16% in weight, solution for 30 days. GFRP specimens aged and unaged were also tested under tensile fatigue cycles up to 1,000,000 cycles and a nominal frequency of 7.5 Hz. After this severe conditioning the tests indicate a good tensile strength retention of the GFRP in absence of fatigue loads, while a significant loss in fatigue life was experienced when both alkaline exposure and fatigue loads were applied.
Expanding the Scope of Cu(I) Catalyzed “Click Chemistry” with Abnormal NHCs: Three-Fold Click to Tris-Triazoles
Authors: Ho Nga Kim T. , Reichmann Sven O. , Rottschäfer Dennis , Herbst-Irmer Regine , Ghadwal Rajendra S.
Published: September 2017

Cationic copper(I) complexes [Cu(aIPrPh)(IPr)]I (3) and [Cu(aIPrPh)2]I (4) featuring an abnormal N-heterocyclic carbene (aNHC) (aIPrPh = 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)-2-phenyl- imidazol-4-ylidene) and/or an NHC (IPr = 1,3-Bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)imidazol-2-ylidene) ligand(s) are reported. Treatment of Cu(aIPrPh)I (2) with IPr affords complex 3. Reaction of (IPrPh)I (1) (IPrPh = 1,3-bis(2,6-diisopropylphenyl)-2-phenyl-imidazolium) with CuI in the presence of K{N(SiMe3)2} leads to the formation of 4. Complexes 3 and 4 represent rare examples of mixed aNHC-NHC and bis-aNHC metal complexes, respectively. They are characterized by elemental analysis, NMR spectroscopic, and mass spectrometric studies. The solid-state molecular structures of 3 and 4 have been determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analyses. The catalytic activity of 2, 3, and 4 has been investigated in the [3+2] cycloaddition of alkynes and organic azides, affording triazole derivatives in an almost quantitative yield. Notably, complexes 2, 3, and 4 are excellent catalysts for the three-fold cycloaddition of a tris-azide with various alkynes. This catalytic protocol offers a high yield access to tris-triazoles in a shorter reaction time and considerably reduces the experimental work-up compared to the classical synthetic method.
Epitaxial Growth of AlN on (0001) Sapphire: Assessment of HVPE Process by a Design of Experiments Approach
Authors: Boichot Raphaël , Chen Danying , Mercier Frédéric , Baillet Francis , Giusti Gaël , Coughlan Thomas , Chubarov Mikhail , Pons Michel
Published: September 2017

This study aims to present the interest of using a design of experiments (DOE) approach for assessing, understanding and improving the hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) process, a particular class of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) process. The case of the HVPE epitaxial growth of AlN on (0001) sapphire will illustrate this approach. The study proposes the assessment of the influence of 15 process parameters on the quality or desired properties of the grown layers measured by 9 responses. The general method used is a screening design with the Hadamard matrix of order 16. For the first time in the growth of AlN by CVD, a reliable estimation of errors is proposed on the measured responses. This study demonstrates that uncontrolled release of condensed species from the cold wall is the main drawback of this process, explaining many properties of the grown layers that could be mistakenly attributed to other phenomena without the use of a DOE. It appears also that the size of nucleation islands, and its corollary, the stress state of the layer at room temperature, are key points. They are strongly correlated to the crystal quality. Due to the intrinsic limitations of the screening design, the complete optimization of responses cannot be proposed but general guidelines for hydride (or halogen) vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) experimentations, in particular with cold wall apparatus, are given.
Beyond Bitcoin: A Critical Look at Blockchain-Based Systems
Authors: Romano Diego , Schmid Giovanni
Published: September 2017

After more than eight years since the launch of Bitcoin, the decentralized transaction ledger functionality implemented through the blockchain technology is being used not only for cryptocurrencies, but to register, confirm and transfer any kind of contract and property. In this work, we analyze the most relevant functionalities and known issues of this technology, with the intent of pointing out the possible behaviours that are not as efficient and reliable as they should be when thinking with a broader outlook.
Evaluating the Scale and Potential of GLOF in the Bhutan Himalayas Using a Satellite-Based Integral Glacier–Glacial Lake Inventory
Authors: Nagai Hiroto , Ukita Jinro , Narama Chiyuki , Fujita Koji , Sakai Akiko , Tadono Takeo , Yamanokuchi Tsutomu , Tomiyama Nobuhiro
Published: September 2017

A comprehensive glacier–glacial lake inventory was developed for the Bhutan Himalayas based on satellite observations between 1987–1990 and 2006–2011. In total, 733 lakes (covering 82.6 km2) were delineated between 4000 and 6000 m a.s.l. and their relationships to associated glaciers were documented. Using this new inventory, the scale and potential for glacial lake outburst flooding (GLOF) based on multiple criteria was examined. This included a history of connectivity characteristics of glacial lakes to mother glaciers, potential flood volumes, and debris-cover of mother glaciers in addition to the conventional criteria of expansion rate and lake size. The majority of the lakes with high expansion rates (more than double in size) and large areas (>0.1 km2) met the conditions of being continuously in contact with a mother debris-covered glacier for nearly 20 years. Based on these multiple criteria, two lakes were identified as having potential for large-scale GLOF. Potentially dangerous glacial lakes listed in the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) study were re-visited, and some overlaps with the glacier–glacial lake inventory were found.
Arsenic Speciation and Extraction and the Significance of Biodegradable Acid on Arsenic Removal—An Approach for Remediation of Arsenic-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Nguyen Van Thinh , Osanai Yasuhito , Do Nguyen Hai , Kurosawa Kiyoshi
Published: September 2017

A series of arsenic remediation tests were conducted using a washing method with biodegradable organic acids, including oxalic, citric and ascorbic acids. Approximately 80% of the arsenic in one sample was removed under the effect of the ascorbic and oxalic acid combination, which was roughly twice higher than the effectiveness of the ascorbic and citric acid combination under the same conditions. The soils treated using biodegradable acids had low remaining concentrations of arsenic that are primarily contained in the crystalline iron oxides and organic matter fractions. The close correlation between extracted arsenic and extracted iron/aluminum suggested that arsenic was removed via the dissolution of Fe/Al oxides in soils. The fractionation of arsenic in four contaminated soils was investigated using a modified sequential extraction method. Regarding fractionation, we found that most of the soil contained high proportions of arsenic (As) in exchangeable fractions with phosphorus, amorphous oxides, and crystalline iron oxides, while a small amount of the arsenic fraction was organic matter-bound. This study indicated that biodegradable organic acids can be considered as a means for arsenic-contaminated soil remediation.
Stress and Depressive Symptoms in Cancer Survivors and Their Family Members: Korea Community Health Survey, 2012
Authors: Han Mi
Published: September 2017

This study examined the prevalence of perceived stress and depressive symptoms in cancer survivors and their family members compared with subjects without cancer and without family members with cancer. The subjects of this cross-sectional study were adults ≥19 years old who participated in the 2012 Korea Community Health Survey. Stress and depressive symptoms in cancer survivors and their family members were assessed and compared to symptoms in control groups by chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression analyses. Of the 6783 cancer survivors, 26.9% and 8.7% reported having stress and depressive symptoms, respectively, and 27.7% and 5.9% of family members of cancer survivors reported having stress and depressive symptoms, respectively. Cancer survivors showed higher adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for stress (aOR = 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.16–1.37) and depressive symptoms (aOR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.57–2.11) than subjects without cancer history. Family members of cancer survivors showed a higher OR for stress and depressive symptoms than subjects without a family member who survived cancer. Cancer survivors and family members of cancer survivors had more stress and depressive symptoms than controls. Careful management for cancer patients and their family members should include screening for stress and depression to improve mental health associated with cancer survivorship.
Using Eye Tracking to Explore the Guidance and Constancy of Visual Variables in 3D Visualization
Authors: Liu Bing , Dong Weihua , Meng Liqiu
Published: September 2017

An understanding of guidance, which means guiding attention, and constancy, meaning that an area can be perceived for what it is despite environmental changes, of the visual variables related to three-dimensional (3D) symbols is essential to ensure rapid and consistent human perception in 3D visualization. Previous studies have focused on the guidance and constancy of visual variables related to two-dimensional (2D) symbols, but these aspects are not well documented for 3D symbols. In this study, we used eye tracking to analyze the visual guidance from shapes, hues and sizes, and the visual constancy that is related to the shape, color saturation and size of 3D symbols in different locations. Thirty-six subjects (24 females and 12 males) participated in the study. The results indicate that hue and shape provide a high level of visual guidance, whereas guidance from size, a variable that predominantly guides attention in 2D visualization, is much more limited in 3D visualization. Additionally, constancy of shape and saturation are perceived with relatively high accuracy, whereas constancy of size is perceived with only low accuracy. These first empirical studies are intended to pave the way for a more comprehensive user understanding of 3D visualization design.
Limits of Colour Perception in the Context of Minimum Dimensions in Digital Cartography
Authors: Lupa Michał , Szombara Stanisław , Chuchro Monika , Chrobak Tadeusz
Published: September 2017

The commonly used methods in digital cartography are based on the minimum dimensions of black and white objects. This article presents a solution in which both the colour of the symbols and the background on which they are presented are relevant in the context of setting the minimum dimensions of the objects on a map. To achieve this, the authors have developed a perception coefficient that is an extension of the formal definitions of minimum object dimensions. In support of the presented solutions, the authors offer several cartographic examples. The article also contains experimental research that examines the impact of colour on the recognition of objects by means of specially prepared surveys. These results are compared against the theoretical values of the perception coefficient. The research objective was achieved by developing new solutions that could be used in the cartographic production processes of any national map agency.
Bonferroni Mean Operators of Linguistic Neutrosophic Numbers and Their Multiple Attribute Group Decision-Making Methods
Authors: Fan Changxing , Ye Jun , Hu Keli , Fan En
Published: September 2017

Linguistic neutrosophic numbers (LNN) is presented by Fang and Ye in 2017, which can describe the truth, falsity, and indeterminacy linguistic information independently. In this paper, the LNN and the Bonferroni mean operator are merged together to propose a LNN normalized weighted Bonferroni mean (LNNNWBM) operator and a LNN normalized weighted geometric Bonferroni mean (LNNNWGBM) operator and the properties of these two operators are proved. Further, multi-attribute group decision methods are introduced based on the proposed LNNNWBM and LNNNWGBM operators, and then an example is provided to demonstrate the application and validity of the proposed methods. In addition, in order to consider the effect of the parameters p and q on the decision results, different pairs of parameter values are employed to verify the decision results.
Comparison of Efficiency of BG-Sentinel Traps Baited with Mice, Mouse-Litter, and CO2 Lures for Field Sampling of Male and Female Aedes albopictus Mosquitoes
Authors: Le Goff Gilbert , Damiens David , Ruttee Abdoul-Hamid , Payet Laurent , Lebon Cyrille , Dehecq Jean-Sébastien , Geier Martin , Gouagna Louis-Clément
Published: September 2017

Determining the abundance and distribution of male mosquitoes in the wild and establishing species seasonality in candidate pilot sites is of particular interest with respect to the use of the sterile-male technique. With the knowledge that using mice as bait in BG-Sentinel traps effectively enhances Aedes albopictus male and female trapping success, the present study was designed to determine whether attractants derived from mouse odour blend could be a viable substitute for live mice to lure Ae. albopictus mosquitoes into traps. The effects of baiting BG-Sentinel traps with mice, carbon dioxide (CO2), and attractants derived from litter mouse odours (mouse litter (ML)) and a mouse odour blend (MOB) on the efficiency of trapping Ae. albopictus males and females were tested using a Latin square design. The BG-Sentinel trap baited with CO2 + ML caught a significantly larger number of mosquitoes compared to traps baited with mice only. The BG-Sentinel traps containing only CO2 or CO2 + MOB, however, did not catch significantly more mosquitoes compared to the other traps. The proportions of males caught in the BG-Sentinel traps did not differ significantly between the respective attractants. The results from this study confirm that CO2 bait is efficient to provide a reliable estimation method for Ae. albopictus adult male abundance in the wild, and suggest that mouse litter baits in combination with CO2 could be used to enhance Aedes trapping success in BG-Sentinel traps.
Effects of Salinity on Surface Lifetime of Large Individual Bubbles
Authors: Anguelova Magdalena , Huq Pablo
Published: September 2017

The influence of salinity on the characteristics of individual bubbles (2–4 mm in diameter) in fresh and saline water (up to 40 practical salinity units) was investigated. Bubbles were produced by forcing air through capillary tubes. Aqueous solutions in distilled and filtered tap waters with minimized presence of organic additives were used. Salinity, surface tension, and water temperature were monitored. Parameters measured were the bubble surface lifetime, diameter, and rise velocity. The surface lifetime varies widely (in the range of 0.4–35 s) depending on the salinity concentration and the purity of the solutions. Variations with salinity of size and rise velocity of large individual bubbles are discussed. Interpretation of the results in terms of anti-foaming (negative adsorption), as well as the Marangoni and the Gibbs effects, is helpful in understanding the results.
User-Generated Services Composition in Smart Multi-User Environments
Authors: Catania Vincenzo , La Torre Giuseppe , Monteleone Salvatore , Panno Daniela , Patti Davide
Published: September 2017

The increasing complexity shown in Smart Environments, together with the spread of social networks, is increasingly moving the role of users from simple information and services consumers to actual producers. In this work, we focus on security issues raised by a particular kind of services: those generated by users. User-Generated Services (UGSs) are characterized by a set of features that distinguish them from conventional services. To cope with UGS security problems, we introduce three different policy management models, analyzing benefits and drawbacks of each approach. Finally, we propose a cloud-based solution that enables the composition of multiple UGSs and policy models, allowing users’ devices to share features and services in Internet of Things (IoT) based scenarios.
Research on the Mechanism of In-Plane Vibration on Friction Reduction
Authors: Wang Peng , Ni Hongjian , Wang Ruihe , Liu Weili , Lu Shuangfang
Published: September 2017

A modified model for predicting the friction force between drill-string and borehole wall under in-plane vibrations was developed. It was found that the frictional coefficient in sliding direction decreased significantly after applying in-plane vibration on the bottom specimen. The friction reduction is due to the direction change of friction force, elastic deformation of surface asperities and the change of frictional coefficient. Normal load, surface topography, vibration direction, velocity ratio and interfacial shear factor are the main influence factors of friction force in sliding direction. Lower driving force can be realized for a pair of determinate rubbing surfaces under constant normal load by setting the driving direction along the minimum arithmetic average attack angle direction, and applying intense longitudinal vibration on the rubbing pair. The modified model can significantly improve the accuracy in predicting frictional coefficient under vibrating conditions, especially under the condition of lower velocity ratio. The results provide a theoretical gist for friction reduction technology by vibrating drill-string, and provide a reference for determination of frictional coefficient during petroleum drilling process, which has great significance for realizing digitized and intelligent drilling.
Quantifying the Performance of P-Type Transparent Conducting Oxides by Experimental Methods
Authors: Fleischer Karsten , Norton Emma , Mullarkey Daragh , Caffrey David , Shvets Igor
Published: September 2017

Screening for potential new materials with experimental and theoretical methods has led to the discovery of many promising candidate materials for p-type transparent conducting oxides. It is difficult to reliably assess a good p-type transparent conducting oxide (TCO) from limited information available at an early experimental stage. In this paper we discuss the influence of sample thickness on simple transmission measurements and how the sample thickness can skew the commonly used figure of merit of TCOs and their estimated band gap. We discuss this using copper-deficient CuCrO 2 as an example, as it was already shown to be a good p-type TCO grown at low temperatures. We outline a modified figure of merit reducing thickness-dependent errors, as well as how modern ab initio screening methods can be used to augment experimental methods to assess new materials for potential applications as p-type TCOs, p-channel transparent thin film transistors, and selective contacts in solar cells.
Experimental and Numerical Modeling of the Stress Rupture Behavior of Nickel-Based Single Crystal Superalloys Subject to Multi-Row Film Cooling Holes
Authors: Xu Yuanming , Sun Weikang , Dai Wei , Hu Chunyan , Liu Xinling , Zhang Weifang
Published: September 2017

The stress rupture behavior of nickel-base single crystal superalloys is a primary issue facing aero-engine design, which has been studied for more than 40 years. To a large degree, it is the existence of film cooling holes with the introduction of air cooling techniques that adds the extra challenge to the problem. Using both experimental and numerical methods, we explore here the stress rupture behavior of nickel base single crystal plate specimens subject to multi-row film cooling holes. As the numerical simulation part, finite element analysis using Abaqus was performed. Numerical results reveal that the existence of film-holes causes stress concentration and transforms local stress from uniaxial to multi-axial. For the stress distribution of different types of specimens, we defined a stress multiaxiality factor to quantitatively characterize the degree of the stress complexity and examined its effect on the rupture behaviors of the specimens along with the true stress concentration factor. The test was also carried out and results indicated that the creep rupture lives of one- and two-row specimens turn out to be longer than those of non-hole specimen. However, the three- and four-row configuration showed the opposite trend. Among the geometric parameters of film-hole configuration, film-hole row spacing is a predominant one influencing the creep rupture properties. Numerical results agree well with the fracture positions and shapes of specimens.
Changes in Tannin Composition of Syrah Grape Skins and Seeds during Fruit Ripening under Contrasting Water Conditions
Authors: Kyraleou Maria , Kallithraka Stamatina , Theodorou Nikolaos , Teissedre Pierre-Louis , Kotseridis Yorgos , Koundouras Stefanos
Published: September 2017

Tannin accumulation and composition were determined in skins and seeds isolated from Vitis vinifera cv. Syrah grapes submitted to contrasting water regimes under semiarid climatic conditions. Three irrigation treatments were conducted, starting at berry set through harvest of two growing seasons, 2011 and 2012: irrigation at 100% of crop evapotranspiration ETc (FI), irrigation at 50% of ETc (DI) and non-irrigated (NI). Seed total tannins did not vary with maturity but those of skins underwent a progressive decline (especially in 2011), expressed both on a fresh weight and on a per berry basis. Skin total tannin concentration and content per berry were increased under NI and DI conditions, mainly in 2012. In contrast, seed total tannins (in 2012) and flavan-3-ol monomers and tannin oligomers (both years) were higher in the fully irrigated vines (FI). Skin polymer size increased during ripening, NI and DI skins showing higher mean degree of polymerization (mDP) compared to FI at harvest. NI was also associated with a lower percentage of galloylation (%G) in skin oligomeric fraction (in 2012) and a lower percentage of prodelphinidins in the skin polymeric fraction (both years) at harvest. The mDP and %G of seed extracts did not vary during ripening and were higher in NI but only in 2012. According to the results, management of vine water status was shown to influence tannin amount and composition of Syrah grapes grown under semiarid conditions.
Origin and Formation Mechanism Investigation of Compound Precipitation from the Traditional Chinese Prescription Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-Tang by Isothermal Titration Calorimetry
Authors: Wang Hui , Li Tong , Xiang Hongjun , Zhang Xinyu , Fang Kang , Wu Gaorong , Yan Mengmeng , Xue Nannan , Chen Meng , Xie Tianxin , Zhang Yuzhong , Wang Penglong , Lei Haimin
Published: September 2017

Previous studies have shown that compounds in the form of precipitate (CFP) from Huang-Lian-Jie-Du-Tang (HLJDT) were stable, and the CFP content reached 2.63% of the whole decoction and had good neuroprotective effects. However, there has been no research on their specific source. In this study, it was found that HLJDT CFP mainly came from the reaction of Scutellaria baicalensis and Coptis chinensis by studying the separated prescription components (accounting for 81.33% of HLJDT CFP). Unlike previous studies on HLJDT CFP, in this research the chemical composition of Scutellaria baicalensis–Coptis chinensis (SB–CC) CFP was identified by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MSn), which further proved that the main source of HLJDT CFP was Scutellaria baicalensis–Coptis chinensis CFP compared with previous HLJDT CFP studies. To explain the reaction mechanism between the decoctions of Scutellaria baicalensis and Coptis chinensis, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) was used to analyze their binding heat and the thermodynamic parameters (ΔH, ΔS, ΔG, n, Ka) of the reaction between baicalin and berberine, which are the main components of Scutellaria baicalensis and Coptis chinensis, respectively. The results showed that the reaction between decoctions of Scutellaria baicalensis and Coptis chinensis was exothermic and the reaction between baicalin and berberine was a spontaneous and enthalpy-driven chemical reaction, the binding ratio being 1:1. In addition, HLJDT CFP (EC50 = 14.71 ± 0.91 µg/mL) and SB-CC CFP (EC50 = 6.11 ± 0.12 µg/mL) showed similar protective activities on PC12 cells injured by cobalt chloride (CoCl2). This study provided a new angle to research on the main chemical components and therapeutic values of CFP in Traditional Chinese Medicine compounds.
Dynamic Response of Graphitic Flakes in Nematic Liquid Crystals: Confinement and Host Effect
Authors: Tie Weiwei , Bhattacharyya Surjya , Gao Yuanhao , Zheng Zhi , Shin Eun , Kim Tae , Kim MinSu , Lee Joong , Lee Seung
Published: September 2017

Electric field-induced reorientation of suspended graphitic (GP) flakes and its relaxation back to the original state in a nematic liquid crystal (NLC) host are of interest not only in academia, but also in industrial applications, such as polarizer-free and optical film-free displays, and electro-optic light modulators. As the phenomenon has been demonstrated by thorough observation, the detailed study of the physical properties of the host NLC (the magnitude of dielectric anisotropy, elastic constants, and rotational viscosity), the size of the GP flakes, and cell thickness, are urgently required to be explored and investigated. Here, we demonstrate that the response time of GP flakes reorientation associated with an NLC host can be effectively enhanced by controlling the physical properties. In a vertical field-on state, higher dielectric anisotropy and higher elasticity of NLC give rise to quicker reorientation of the GP flakes (switching from planar to vertical alignment) due to the field-induced coupling effect of interfacial Maxwell-Wagner polarization and NLC reorientation. In a field off-state, lower rotational viscosity of NLC and lower cell thickness can help to reduce the decay time of GP flakes reoriented from vertical to planar alignment. This is mainly attributed to strong coupling between GP flakes and NLC originating from the strong π-π interaction between benzene rings in the honeycomb-like graphene structure and in NLC molecules. The high-uniformity of reoriented GP flakes exhibits a possibility of new light modulation with a relatively faster response time in the switching process and, thus, it can show potential application in field-induced memory and modulation devices.
Pro-Inflammatory Versus Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Dendrimers: The Two Faces of Immuno-Modulatory Nanoparticles
Authors: Fruchon Séverine , Poupot Rémy
Published: September 2017

Dendrimers are soft matter, hyperbranched, and multivalent nanoparticles whose synthesis theoretically affords monodisperse compounds. They are built from a core on which one or several successive series of branches are engrafted in an arborescent way. At the end of the synthesis, the tunable addition of surface groups gives birth to multivalent nano-objects which are generally intended for a specific use. For these reasons, dendrimers have received a lot of attention from biomedical researchers. In particular, some of us have demonstrated that dendrimers can be intrinsically drug-candidate for the treatment of inflammatory disorders, amongst others, using relevant preclinical animal models. These anti-inflammatory dendrimers are innovative in the pharmaceutical field. More recently, it has appeared that some dendrimers (even among those which have been described as anti-inflammatory) can promote inflammatory responses in non-diseased animals. The main corpus of this concise review is focused on the reports which describe anti-inflammatory properties of dendrimers in vivo, following which we review the few recent articles that show pro-inflammatory effects of our favorite molecules, to finally discuss this duality in immuno-modulation which has to be taken into account for the preclinical and clinical developments of dendrimers.
Ethical Integration of Faith and Practice in Social Work Field Education: A Multi-Year Exploration in One Program
Authors: Harris Helen , Yancey Gaynor , Myers Dennis , Deimler Jessie , Walden Destinee
Published: September 2017

The Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) prescribes competencies and professional behaviors for social work educational programs. Respective, individual programs may add program competencies and practice behaviors specific to their schools and universities. The study examines one program’s field education measurement of the additional competency: The ethical integration of faith and practice and behaviors related to clients, students, and practicum sites. More than 600 BSW and MSW students’ final field evaluations over a five-year period were examined for grades and for evidence of each of the faith and practice behaviors. Findings include students’ emphasis on their own ethics including use of supervision and honoring clients’ faith perspectives, students’ recognition of faith as strength and resource for clients; and students’ recording of the importance of agency context policies in the integration of faith and practice. Grades on the faith and practice competency were essentially equivalent to final field evaluation overall grades.
“Kill Two Birds with One Stone”: Urban Tree Species Classification Using Bi-Temporal Pléiades Images to Study Nesting Preferences of an Invasive Bird
Authors: Le Louarn Marine , Clergeau Philippe , Briche Elodie , Deschamps-Cottin Magali
Published: September 2017

This study presents the results of object-based classifications assessing the potential of bi-temporal Pléiades images for mapping broadleaf and coniferous tree species potentially used by the ring-necked parakeet Psittacula krameri for nesting in the urban area of Marseille, France. The first classification was performed based solely on a summer Pléiades image (acquired on 28 July 2015) and the second classification based on bi-temporal Pléiades images (a spring image acquired on 24 March 2016 and the summer image). An ensemble of spectral and textural features was extracted from both images and two machine-learning classifiers were used, Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM). Regardless of the classifiers, model results suggest that classification based on bi-temporal Pléiades images produces more satisfying results, with an overall accuracy 11.5–13.9% higher than classification using the single-date image. Textural and spectral features extracted from the blue and the NIR bands were consistently ranked among the most important features. Regardless of the classification scheme, RF slightly outperforms SVM. RF classification using bi-temporal Pléiades images allows identifying 98.5% of the tree species used by the ring-necked parakeet for nesting, highlighting the promising value of remote sensing techniques to assess the ecological requirements of fauna in urban areas.
The Web of Loneliness: A Netnographic Study of Narratives of Being Alone in an Online Context
Authors: Johansson Thomas , Andreasson Jesper
Published: September 2017

Using a netnographic and case-study-based approach, this article uses different blogs as data in order to analyse how loneliness is conceptualized and understood. More precisely, the study aims to investigate experiences of loneliness and related themes in the context of online communication. In approaching the nature of loneliness, we have analytically leaned on the theories and some of the most basic assumptions of symbolic interactionism, according to which, social encounters and situations, their qualities and their existence, have a profound impact on emotional life. This study can be read as an archaeology of online loneliness and the findings suggest that the experiences of online loneliness can be categorized in different genres, such as the poetics of loneliness, the diagnostics and self-harm of loneliness, and loneliness and family life. Although loneliness is approached and discussed differently, the bloggers’ estranged relationships to society tie these identified genres of loneliness together. The different genres derive their character, form and social dynamics from the narrators’ struggle and urge to somehow find a way to fit into contemporary society and achieve satisfying social relationships. Furthermore, displaying and presenting the self, and thus becoming the object of other people’s attention and interest, in the context of online communication, can be a profound way of reconnecting to society and hopefully avoiding isolation and marginalization.
Assessing Risks at a Former Chemical Facility, Nanjing City, China: An Early Test of the New Remediation Guidelines for Waste Sites in China
Authors: Zhang Yanhong , Ye Shujun , Wu Jichun , Stahl Ralph
Published: September 2017

China has recognized the need to investigate and remediate former manufacturing facilities and return the land they occupy to a new, productive use. As a result, national guidelines entitled “Technical guidelines for Risk assessment of contaminated sites” were issued in 2014 to guide site investigations, risk assessments, and remedial actions to reduce or mitigate potential exposures of people and ecological receptors to contaminants. This study was pursued to gain experience with the new guidelines at a small, former chemical manufacturing facility in Nanjing City, China. A series of investigations were undertaken to determine the locations and levels of contaminants in soils and groundwater, develop a conceptual site model, and prepare an initial estimate of risks to humans and ecological receptors. Groundwater results revealed several contaminants that were greater than the Dutch Intervention Levels, yet, surprisingly, few, if any, contaminants were found in multiple samplings of soil. Despite the limited investigations of soil and groundwater, data were sufficient to prepare initial risk evaluations for humans, both for systemic toxins and potentially carcinogenic chemicals. The site and nearby area contain industrial facilities and residential neighborhoods; hence, there were too few ecological receptors to warrant an ecological risk assessment. The new guidelines for site investigations and risk assessments proved sufficient for the purposes of this small site; however, more complex sites may require much greater levels of effort and more detailed guidelines for investigations, risk assessments, and remedial actions.
Legionella Survey in the Plumbing System of a Sparse Academic Campus: A Case Study at the University of Perugia
Authors: Federici Ermanno , Meniconi Silvia , Ceci Elisa , Mazzetti Elisa , Casagrande Chiara , Montalbani Elena , Businelli Stefania , Mariani Tatiana , Mugnaioli Paolo , Cenci Giovanni , Brunone Bruno
Published: September 2017

We have monitored the presence of bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella in the plumbing of buildings at the University of Perugia (Italy). More than 300 water samples were collected from 156 control-point taps in 41 buildings comprised in the eight campuses of the University. Legionella was absent in most samples, while it was found in only 12 buildings (29% of the total). Molecular analysis indicated the presence of L. pneumophila (serogroups 1, 8 and 6–10), L. taurinensis and L. anisa. In only three cases contamination levels were above the limit at which remedial actions are required, according to international guidelines. In two buildings, where the water temperature could be raised and maintained above 60 °C, thermal disinfection was effective in eradicating Legionella. Conversely, in buildings where contaminations were caused by heat exchangers that produced hot water at a maximum temperature of 50 °C, a chemical disinfection with silver hydrogen peroxide was carried out but was effective only in the short term. In this case study, Legionella contaminations and remediation effectiveness strongly depended on the network and heating-system characteristics, indicating how a multidisciplinary approach that integrates microbiological analysis with hydraulic surveys is necessary for an effective definition of Legionella prevention and control strategies.
Extrahepatic Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Arising from a Hepatic Adenoma without Concurrent Intrahepatic Recurrence
Authors: Poddar Nishant , Ramlal R. , Ravulapati S. , Devlin S. M. , Gadani S. , Vidal C. I. , Cao D. , Befeler A. S. , Lai J.
Published: September 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising from a hepatic adenoma is a rare phenomenon accounting for fewer than 5% of HCC cases; it seldom recurs after resection of the primary tumour. We report a case of extrahepatic metastasis of HCC arising from a hepatic adenoma that presented as a solitary sternal metastasis without any evidence of intrahepatic recurrence. Our patient was initially treated with radiation therapy and bland embolization, without response. Subsequently, the patient developed progressive disease while taking sorafenib. He later received chemotherapy with docetaxel and gemcitabine, with the development of multiple pulmonary and splenic nodules. However, he remained free of intrahepatic recurrence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of extrahepatic metastasis of HCC arising from a hepatic adenoma without evidence of intrahepatic recurrence.