bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Analysis of a Concrete Placer for Optimize the Craft of Infilled Walls’S Constructional Column
Authors: Song Xiaosheng , Wang Shuo , Song Xiaosheng
Published: November 2015

Aiming at the construction of infill wall structural column are often used in artificial layer pouring method and
top pouring back method, to improve the structure of wall column concrete pouring process, puts forward a new type of
structural column concrete pouring machine. The application of this equipment, process worker can finish pouring filled
wall structure column and tap filled wall structure column and unloading modulus. Reduces the labor intensity, reduces
the construction cost and ensure the construction quality of frame pillar structure, realizes the structural column placement
by artificial into mechanization. Introduces the design concept and the design of machinery equipment. Put forward a kind
of "mixed Vibration, Lifting and Transmission" design concept. The mechanical design including a pumping device,
transmission device, track lifting device, transmission device, vibration device, supporting steel template module six.
Describes the structure and function of the main components of the. Describes the use of the method and the working
principle of the equipment. And correlation analysis and calculation on the key parts. Presents the control principle and
control calculation. Through the 3D MAX animation simulation and real structures is feasible
Analysis on Current Situation and Development Trend of Construction
Worker’s Occupational Mobility
Authors: Jide Sun , Qi Nie , Liangfa Shen
Published: November 2015

Occupational mobility is one of the hotspots in academic research. The construction worker’s occupational
mobility is the key element of affecting the healthy and sustainable development of construction industry in China. Based
on domestic and foreign occupational mobility literature, this paper analyze the regional distribution, classic literatures
and hotspots about construction worker’s occupational mobility, by Citation Network, Keyword Co-Occurrence and other
bibliometrics and qualitative tools. It sort out systematically the development skeleton so that we can grasp the future research
directions of occupational mobility. Moreover, it will be important for solving the problem of construction
worker’s occupational mobility.
On a class of operators with normal Aluthge transformations
Authors: Estaremi Yousef
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we show that the generalized Aluthge transformations of a
large class of operators (weighted conditional type operators) are normal. As
a consequence, the operatorMwEMu is p-hyponormal if and only if it is normal,
and under a weak condition, if MwEMu is normal, then the Holder inequality
turn into equality for w; u. Also, we give some applications of p-hyponormal
weighted conditional type operators, for instance, point spectrum and joint
point spectrum of p-hyponormal weighted conditional type operators are equal.
In the end, some examples are provided to illustrate concrete application of
the main results of the paper.

 This article has been retracted. Link to the retraction 10.2298/FIL1601253E
Counting dominating sets in cactus chains
Authors: Borissevich Kristina , Doslic Tomislav
Published: November 2015

In this paper we consider the number of dominating sets in cactus chains with
triangular and square blocks. We derive and solve the recurrences satisfied
by those quantities and investigate their asymptotic behavior. In triangular
case we also refine the counting by computing the bivariate generating
function. As a corollary, we compute the expected size of a dominating set
in a triangular cactus chain of a given length.
pARTiCI[TY]pate?!
Authors: Laister Judith , Lipphardt Anna
Published: November 2015

Over the past decades, ‘participation’ has evolved as a key concept in a multitude of practice fields and discursive arenas, ranging from diverse political and economic contexts, through academic research, education and social work, urban planning and design, to arts institutions and artistic projects. While participation originally is a political concept and practice, it has long set out as a ‘travelling concept’ (Bal 2002). This special issue focuses on its travels between three fields of practice: the city, the arts and qualitative empirical research. Each of these practice fields over the past decades has yielded distinct understandings, objectives and methods in respect to participations, yet they also increasingly intersect, overlap and fuse with each other within specific practice contexts. What is more, many of the individual actors engaging in these initiatives on behalf of the city – from temporary projects to long-term collaborations – are not situated in one practice field only. Along with Jana König and Elisabeth Scheffel we understand them as ‘double agents’ (König and Scheffel 2013: 272–3) or even ‘multiple agents’, with simultaneous entanglements and commitments in more than one practice field.
Topographies of the Possible
Authors: Huber Laila
Published: November 2015

This article explores the creation of new structures of participation and counter imaginaries within the city between the poles of arts and politics. On the basis of two case studies, one situated in the non-institutionalised artistic field and one in the non-institutionalised political field, I will explore narratives of a 'topography of the possible' in the city of Salzburg. Aiming to outline collage pieces of a topography of the possible and of counter-narrative in and of the city – the city is looked at in terms of collage, understood as overlapping layers of the three spatial dimensions materiality (physical space), sociability (social space) and the imaginary (symbolic space). These are understood as differing but interrelated spatial dimensions, each one unfolding forms of collective appropriation of a city. The focus lies on the creation of social relations and collective imaginaries on the micro-level of cultural and political self-organised initiatives, looked at under terms of narration and storytelling. My ethnographic project asks for the creative potentiality of a city and for the creative power of social relations and collective imaginaries.
Propagation and suppression method of lightning wave in coaxial line
Authors: Li Xiang-Chao , Zhou Zhongshan , Chen Zehuang , Chen Puyang
Published: November 2015

In accordance with the theory of waveguide, the electric field and magnetic field equations of transverse electromagnetic propagating in coaxial line were derived. Based on the equivalent impedance of coaxial line after the broken-down of gas discharge tube (GDT) that connected in parallel, the corresponding relation between reflection coefficient and the equivalent impedance of the main modules at the reflector surface of Z= 0 is established. The high-order mode function of the excitation magnetic current was also analyzed. To solve the transmission and suppression problems of lightning wave propagation, we combined theories with experiment and draw conclusions: a) higher mode will be excited when the lightning wave propagates on the coaxial line with the line terminal to be open; b) the lightning wave energy will be absorbed by terminal load and higher mode will be also excited when the characteristic impedance of the load is same with the coaxial line; c) the GDT will become a reflector when the lightning wave go through it and part of the wave will be reflected. Part of the energy of the lightning wave will be discharged by GDT and only a little of the energy will be absorbed by the load. The experimental results are consisted with the theories analysis and have a great of significance in practical applications.
Error analysis in conductive electromagnetic interference noise source impedance extraction: A simulation and experimental study
Authors: Zhao Yang , Deng Yiming , Yan Wei , Qiu Xiaohui , Liu Yong
Published: November 2015

In the paper, we experimentally characterized the four methods and assessed both current method and voltage method based on its test schematics. The accuracy of the current method was analyzed based on current probe performance and circuit parasitic parameter performance (such as parasitic inductance), while the accuracy of voltage method was studied based on coupling capacitance performance and insertion component performance. The resonance effect was further investigated for differential mode noise source impedance extraction. We finally proposed a novel design and our theoretical analysis; simulation and experiment results showed that the conductive EMI noise can be reduced effectively by our innovative approach.
Design and analysis of mobile phone casing for the reduction of EM absorption
Authors: Hossain M.I. , Faruque M.R.I. , Islam M.T. , Arshad H.
Published: November 2015

A new design and analysis of cellular phone casing based on shielding technique is presented in this study to reduce the EM absorption in the human head. A dual band PIFA is designed to operate at 900 MHz and 1900 MHz GSM frequency bands as an internal handset antenna. The specific absorption rate (SAR) in the human head and total absorbed power by the cell phone user are calculated along with antenna performances. It is found that the SAR in the head is reduced due to the proposed casing considerably for both the lower and upper frequency bands. The new mobile casing provides 48.2% reduction in the SAR at 900 MHz and 44.8% reduction at 1900 MHz. In addition, the mobile casing improves the radiation efficiency for 6% and 7% in comparison with without casing configuration at the lower and upper GSM frequency bands respectively.
Wideband circularly polarized planar monopole antenna for wireless communication applications
Authors: Zhang Li , Jiao Yong-Chang , Ni Tao , Liang Wei-Long
Published: November 2015

A wideband circular polarization (CP) printed monopole antenna with coplanar-waveguide (CPW)-fed is presented for wireless communication applications. By employing T-shaped slot in the ground-plane, the impedance bandwidth of the antenna is enlarged, and its wide axial-ratio(AR) bandwidth is realized. The measured results show a -10 dB impedance bandwidth of 75.39% (3.62-8.00 GHz) and an axial ratio (AR) bandwidth of 31.38% (4.81-6.60 GHz), which agree well with the simulated results. The proposed antenna can provide a peak antenna gain of about 1.68 dBi at 5.00 GHz, with gain variations less than 0.81 dB for frequencies within the CP bandwidth.
Inclined crack through a rhombic thin superconducting strip with transport current
Authors: Liu Q.F. , Feng W.J. , Su R.K.L.
Published: November 2015

The fracture properties of an inclined crack through a rhombic thin superconducting strip with transport current are investigated. The flux and current density distributions in the processes of both ascending and descending transport currents are given in clear forms. Adopting the plane strain problem model, the energy release rates (ERRs) of the inclined crack are calculated by the finite element method (FEM). The effects of inclined angle, crack length, maximal thickness and applied maximal transport current on the ERRs are discussed in detail in the process of descending transport current. All the obtained results should be of vital importance for the application of superconductors.
The Role of Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Sustainability Transitions: A Conceptual Synthesis against the Background of the Multi-Level Perspective
Authors: Hörisch Jacob
Published: November 2015

This paper conceptually synthesizes prior studies on sustainable entrepreneurship against the background of the multi-level perspective. It thereby relates separate streams of literature on sustainable entrepreneurship, sustainability transformations and ecopreneurship, which have previously not been systematically connected and synthesized, to the multi-level perspective. The paper furthermore provides suggestions on how the multi-level perspective can be advanced based on the inspirations of these previously only sparsely-connected streams of literature. Finally, implications for entrepreneurs, academia and politics are presented: means to increase the contribution of sustainable entrepreneurship to sustainability transitions are suggested, and the importance of growth and degrowth is discussed in the context of sustainable entrepreneurship.
C0 Layerwise Model with Fixed Degrees of Freedom and Variable In- and Out-of-Plane Kinematics by Strain Energy Updating Technique
Authors: Icardi Ugo , Sola Federico
Published: November 2015

Physically based zigzag models have the merit of giving accurate stress predictions for laminates and sandwiches keeping fixed the functional degrees of freedom, though at the expense of the introduction of their derivatives. In the present paper, a technique that enables deleting these derivatives is developed. The objective is finding a priori corrections of displacements, which make the energy of the model with all the derivatives neglected equivalent to that of its initial counterpart model containing all the derivatives. Numerical applications show that this technique can obtain accurate results, even for strongly asymmetrical lay-ups, keeping low the computational cost.
Dispersion of Functionalized Silica Micro- and Nanoparticles into Poly(nonamethylene Azelate) by Ultrasonic Micro-Molding
Authors: Díaz Angélica , Casas María , Puiggalí Jordi
Published: November 2015

Ultrasound micro-molding technology has proved useful in processing biodegradable polymers with minimum material loss. This makes this technology particularly suitable for the production of biomedical microdevices. The use of silica (SiO2) nanoparticles is also interesting because of advantages like low cost and enhancement of final properties. Evaluation of the capacity to create a homogeneous dispersion of particles is crucial. Specifically, this feature was explored taking into account micro- and nano-sized silica particles and a biodegradable polyester derived from 1,9-nonanodiol and azelaic acid as a matrix. Results demonstrated that composites could be obtained with up to 6 wt. % of silica and that no degradation occurred even if particles were functionalized with a compatibilizer like (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane. Incorporation of nanoparticles should have a great influence on properties. Specifically, the effect on crystallization was evaluated by calorimetric and optical microscopy analyses. The overall crystallization rate was enhanced upon addition of functionalized silica nanospheres, even at the low percentage of 3 wt. %. This increase was mainly due to the ability of nanoparticles to act as heterogeneous nuclei during crystallization. However, the enhancement of the secondary nucleation process also played a significant role, as demonstrated by Lauritzen and Hoffmann analysis.
Objectifying “Pain” in the Modern Neurosciences: A Historical Account of the Visualization Technologies Used in the Development of an “Algesiogenic Pathology”, 1850 to 2000
Authors: Stahnisch Frank
Published: November 2015

Particularly with the fundamental works of the Leipzig school of experimental psychophysiology (between the 1850s and 1880s), the modern neurosciences witnessed an increasing interest in attempts to objectify “pain” as a bodily signal and physiological value. This development has led to refined psychological test repertoires and new clinical measurement techniques, which became progressively paired with imaging approaches and sophisticated theories about neuropathological pain etiology. With the advent of electroencephalography since the middle of the 20th century, and through the use of brain stimulation technologies and modern neuroimaging, the chosen scientific route towards an ever more refined “objectification” of pain phenomena took firm root in Western medicine. This article provides a broad overview of landmark events and key imaging technologies, which represent the long developmental path of a field that could be called “algesiogenic pathology.”
Contribution of Portuguese Vernacular Building Strategies to Indoor Thermal Comfort and Occupants’ Perception
Authors: Fernandes Jorge , Pimenta Carlos , Mateus Ricardo , Silva Sandra , Bragança Luís
Published: November 2015

Solar passive strategies that have been developed in vernacular architecture from different regions are a response to specific climate effects. These strategies are usually simple, low-tech and have low potential environmental impact. For this reason, several studies highlight them as having potential to reduce the demands of non-renewable energy for buildings operation. In this paper, the climatic contrast between northern and southern parts of mainland Portugal is presented, namely the regions of Beira Alta and Alentejo. Additionally, it discusses the contribution of different climate-responsive strategies developed in vernacular architecture from both regions to assure thermal comfort conditions. In Beira Alta, the use of glazed balconies as a strategy to capture solar gains is usual, while in Alentejo the focus is on passive cooling strategies. To understand the effectiveness of these strategies, thermal performances and comfort conditions of two case studies were evaluated based on the adaptive comfort model. Field tests included measurement of hygrothermal parameters and surveys on occupants’ thermal sensation. From the results, it has been found that the case studies have shown a good thermal performance by passive means alone and that the occupants feel comfortable, except during winter where there is the need to use simple heating systems.
Comparative Risk Assessment to Inform Adaptation Priorities for the Natural Environment: Observations from the First UK Climate Change Risk Assessment
Authors: Brown Iain
Published: November 2015

Risk assessment can potentially provide an objective framework to synthesise and prioritise climate change risks to inform adaptation policy. However, there are significant challenges in the application of comparative risk assessment procedures to climate change, particularly for the natural environment. These challenges are evaluated with particular reference to the first statutory Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA) and evidence review procedures used to guide policy for the UK government. More progress was achieved on risk identification, screening and prioritisation compared to risk quantification. This was due to the inherent complexity and interdependence of ecological risks and their interaction with socio-economic drivers as well as a climate change. Robust strategies to manage risk were identified as those that coordinate organisational resources to enhance ecosystem resilience, and to accommodate inevitable change, rather than to meet specific species or habitats targets. The assessment also highlighted subjective and contextual components of risk appraisal including ethical issues regarding the level of human intervention in the natural environment and the proposed outcomes of any intervention. This suggests that goals for risk assessment need to be more clearly explicated and assumptions on tolerable risk declared as a primer for further dialogue on expectations for managed outcomes. Ecosystem-based adaptation may mean that traditional habitats and species conservation goals and existing regulatory frameworks no longer provide the best guide for long-term risk management thereby challenging the viability of some existing practices.
A Technique for Mitigating Thermal Stress and Extending Life Cycle of Power Electronic Converters Used for Wind Turbines
Authors: Batunlu Canras , Albarbar Alhussein
Published: November 2015

Over the last two decades, various models have been developed to assess and improve the reliability of power electronic conversion systems (PECs) with a focus on those used for wind turbines. However, only few studies have dealt with mitigating the PECs thermo-mechanical effects on their reliability taking into account variations in wind characteristics. This work critically investigates this issue and attempts to offer a mitigating technique by, first, developing realistic full scale (FS) and partial scale (PS) induction generator models combined with two level back-to-back PECs. Subsequently, deriving a driving algorithm, which reduces PEC’s operating temperature by controlling its switching patterns. The developed switching procedure ensures minimum temperature fluctuations by adapting the variable DC link and system’s frequency of operation. It was found for both FS and PS topologies, that the generator side converters have higher mean junction temperatures where the grid side ones have more fluctuations on their thermal profile. The FS and PS cycling temperatures were reduced by 12 °C and 5 °C, respectively. Moreover, this led to a significant improvement in stress; approximately 27 MPa stress reduction for the FS induction generator PEC.
Comparing World Economic and Net Energy Metrics, Part 1: Single Technology and Commodity Perspective
Authors: King Carey , Maxwell John , Donovan Alyssa
Published: November 2015

We translate between biophysical and economic metrics that characterize the role of energy in the economy. Specifically, using data from the International Energy Agency, we estimate the energy intensity ratio (EIR), a price-based proxy for a power return ratio (PRR ∼ P out / P invested ). The EIR is a useful metric, because for most countries and energy commodities, it can indicate the biophysical trends of net energy when data are too scarce to perform an original net energy analysis. We calculate EIR for natural gas, coal, petroleum and electricity for forty-four countries from 1978 to 2010. Global EIR values generally rise from 1978 to 1998, decline from 1998 to 2008 and then slightly rebound. These trends indicate one interpretation of the net energy of the world economy. To add perspective to our recent, but short, time series, we perform the same calculations for historical England and United Kingdom energy prices to demonstrate that a given energy price translates to different PRRs (EIR in this case) depending on the structure of the economy and technology. We review the formulation of PRRs and energy return ratios (ERR ∼ E out / E invested ) to indicate why PRRs translate to (the inverse of) energy prices and ERRs translate to (the inverse of) energy costs. We show why for any given value of an ERR or PRR, there is not a single corresponding energy cost or price, and vice versa. These principles in turn provide the basis to perform better modeling of future energy scenarios (e.g., low-carbon transition) by considering the relationship between economic metrics (cost and price) and biophysical metrics (energy and power return ratios) based on energy, material and power flows.
General Dynamic Equivalent Modeling of Microgrid Based on Physical Background
Authors: Cai Changchun , Jiang Bing , Deng Lihua
Published: November 2015

Microgrid is a new power system concept consisting of small-scale distributed energy resources; storage devices and loads. It is necessary to employ a simplified model of microgrid in the simulation of a distribution network integrating large-scale microgrids. Based on the detailed model of the components, an equivalent model of microgrid is proposed in this paper. The equivalent model comprises two parts: namely, equivalent machine component and equivalent static component. Equivalent machine component describes the dynamics of synchronous generator, asynchronous wind turbine and induction motor, equivalent static component describes the dynamics of photovoltaic, storage and static load. The trajectory sensitivities of the equivalent model parameters with respect to the output variables are analyzed. The key parameters that play important roles in the dynamics of the output variables of the equivalent model are identified and included in further parameter estimation. Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) is improved for the parameter estimation of the equivalent model. Simulations are performed in different microgrid operation conditions to evaluate the effectiveness of the equivalent model of microgrid.
Biohydrogen Production from Lignocellulosic Biomass: Technology and Sustainability
Authors: Singh Anoop , Sevda Surajbhan , Abu Reesh Ibrahim , Vanbroekhoven Karolien , Rathore Dheeraj , Pant Deepak
Published: November 2015

Among the various renewable energy sources, biohydrogen is gaining a lot of traction as it has very high efficiency of conversion to usable power with less pollutant generation. The various technologies available for the production of biohydrogen from lignocellulosic biomass such as direct biophotolysis, indirect biophotolysis, photo, and dark fermentations have some drawbacks (e.g., low yield and slower production rate, etc.), which limits their practical application. Among these, metabolic engineering is presently the most promising for the production of biohydrogen as it overcomes most of the limitations in other technologies. Microbial electrolysis is another recent technology that is progressing very rapidly. However, it is the dark fermentation approach, followed by photo fermentation, which seem closer to commercialization. Biohydrogen production from lignocellulosic biomass is particularly suitable for relatively small and decentralized systems and it can be considered as an important sustainable and renewable energy source. The comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of biohydrogen production from lignocellulosic biomass and its comparison with other biofuels can be a tool for policy decisions. In this paper, we discuss the various possible approaches for producing biohydrogen from lignocellulosic biomass which is an globally available abundant resource. The main technological challenges are discussed in detail, followed by potential solutions.
Induction of the Estrogenic Marker Calbindn-D9k by Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane
Authors: Lee Dongoh , Ahn Changhwan , An Beum-Soo , Jeung Eui-Bae
Published: November 2015

Interrupting the hormonal balance of an organism by interfering with hormones and their target receptors gives rise to various problems such as developmental disorders. Collectively, these reagents are known as endocrine disruptors (EDs). Cyclic volatile methyl siloxanes (cVMSs) are a group of silicone polymers that including octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4). In the present study, we examined the estrogenicity of D4 through in vitro and in vivo assays that employed calcium-binding protein 9K (calbindin-D9k; CaBP-9K) as a biomarker. For in vitro investigation, GH3 rat pituitary cells were exposed to vehicle, 17β-estradiol (E2), or D4 with/without ICI 182 780 (ICI). CaBP-9K and progesterone receptor (PR) both were up-regulated by E2 and D4 which were completely blocked by ICI. Transcription of estrogen receptor α (ER α) was decreased by E2 and D4 but increased by ICI. D4 was also administered to immature female rats for an uterotrophic (UT) assay and detection of CaBP-9K. Ethinyl estradiol (EE) or D4 was administered subcutaneously with or without ICI. Although uterine weight was not significant altered by D4, an effect thought to be due to cytochrome P450 (CYP), it induced CaBP-9K and PR gene expression. Based on these results we reveal that D4 has estrogenic potential proven under in vitro and in vivo experimental conditions.
Caesarean Section—A Density-Equalizing Mapping Study to Depict Its Global Research Architecture
Authors: Brüggmann Dörthe , Löhlein Lena-Katharina , Louwen Frank , Quarcoo David , Jaque Jenny , Klingelhöfer Doris , Groneberg David
Published: November 2015

Caesarean section (CS) is a common surgical procedure. Although it has been performed in a modern context for about 100 years, there is no concise analysis of the international architecture of caesarean section research output available so far. Therefore, the present study characterizes the global pattern of the related publications by using the NewQIS (New Quality and Quantity Indices in Science) platform, which combines scientometric methods with density equalizing mapping algorithms. The Web of Science was used as a database. 12,608 publications were identified that originated from 131 countries. The leading nations concerning research activity, overall citations and country-specific h-Index were the USA and the United Kingdom. Relation of the research activity to epidemiologic data indicated that Scandinavian countries including Sweden and Finland were leading the field, whereas, in relation to economic data, countries such as Israel and Ireland led. Semi-qualitative indices such as country-specific citation rates ranked Sweden, Norway and Finland in the top positions. International caesarean section research output continues to grow annually in an era where caesarean section rates increased dramatically over the past decades. With regard to increasing employment of scientometric indicators in performance assessment, these findings should provide useful information for those tasked with the improvement of scientific achievements.
Assessing the Effect of Temporal Interval Length on the Blending of Landsat-MODIS Surface Reflectance for Different Land Cover Types in Southwestern Continental United States
Authors: Fu Dongjie , Zhang Lifu , Chen Hao , Wang Juan , Sun Xuejian , Wu Taixia
Published: November 2015

Capturing spatial and temporal dynamics is a key issue for many remote-sensing based applications. Consequently, several image-blending algorithms that can simulate the surface reflectance with high spatial-temporal resolution have been developed recently. However, the performance of the algorithm against the effect of temporal interval length between the base and simulation dates has not been reported. In this study, our aim was to evaluate the effect of different temporal interval lengths on the accuracy using the widely used blending algorithm, Spatial and Temporal Adaptive Reflectance Fusion Model (STARFM), based on Landsat, Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) images and National Land Cover Database (NLCD). Taking the southwestern continental United States as the study area, a series of experiments was conducted using two schemes, which were the assessment of STARFM with (i) a fixed base date and varied simulation date and (ii) varied base date and specific simulation date, respectively. The result showed that the coefficient of determination (R2), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) varied, and overall trend of R2 decreased along with the increasing temporal interval between the base and simulation dates for six land cover types. The mean R2 value of cropland was lowest, whereas shrub had the highest value for two schemes. The result may facilitate selection of an appropriate temporal interval when using STARFM.
The Use of the Schizonticidal Agent Quinine Sulfate to Prevent Pond Crashes for Algal-Biofuel Production
Authors: Xu Chunyan , Wu Kangyan , Van Ginkel Steve , Igou Thomas , Lee Hwa , Bhargava Aditya , Johnston Rachel , Snell Terry , Chen Yongsheng
Published: November 2015

Algal biofuels are investigated as a promising alternative to petroleum fuel sources to satisfy transportation demand. Despite the high growth rate of algae, predation by rotifers, ciliates, golden algae, and other predators will cause an algae in open ponds to crash. In this study, Chlorella kessleri was used as a model alga and the freshwater rotifer, Brachionus calyciflorus, as a model predator. The goal of this study was to test the selective toxicity of the chemical, quinine sulfate (QS), on both the alga and the rotifer in order to fully inhibit the rotifer while minimizing its impact on algal growth. The QS LC50 for B. calyciflorus was 17 µM while C. kessleri growth was not inhibited at concentrations <25 µM. In co-culture, complete inhibition of rotifers was observed when the QS concentration was 7.7 µM, while algal growth was not affected. QS applications to produce 1 million gallons of biodiesel in one year are estimated to be $0.04/gallon or ~1% of Bioenergy Technologies Office’s (BETO) projected cost of $5/gge (gallon gasoline equivalent). This provides algae farmers an important tool to manage grazing predators in algae mass cultures and avoid pond crashes.
Three Aspects of Information Science in Reality: Symmetry, Semiotics and Society
Authors: Brenner Joseph
Published: November 2015

The 2nd International Conference on the Philosophy of Information (ICPI 2015) took place in Vienna June 5–6, 2015 as a major Section of the Vienna 2015 Summit Conference on the Response and Responsibility of the Information Sciences. At the ICPI, Wu Kun and others presented evidence for a current integration and convergence of the philosophy and science of information, under the influence of the unique characteristics of information itself. As I have shown, my extension of logic to real systems (Logic in Reality; LIR) applies to and explicates many of the properties of information processes. In this paper, I apply LIR as a framework for understanding the operation of information in three areas of science and philosophy that were discussed at the Summit. The utility of this approach in support of an information commons is suggested the abstract section.
Evaluation of an mHealth Medication Regimen Self-Management Program for African American and Hispanic Uncontrolled Hypertensives
Authors: Davidson Tatiana , McGillicuddy John , Mueller Martina , Brunner-Jackson Brenda , Favella April , Anderson Ashley , Torres Magaly , Ruggiero Kenneth , Treiber Frank
Published: November 2015

African Americans and Hispanics have disproportionate rates of uncontrolled essential hypertension (EH) compared to Non-Hispanic Whites. Medication non-adherence (MNA) is the leading modifiable behavior to improved blood pressure (BP) control. The Smartphone Medication Adherence Stops Hypertension (SMASH) program was developed using a patient-centered, theory-guided, iterative design process. Electronic medication trays provided reminder signals, and Short Message Service [SMS] messaging reminded subjects to monitor BP with Bluetooth-enabled monitors. Motivational and reinforcement text messages were sent to participants based upon levels of adherence. Thirty-eight African-American (18) and Hispanic (20) uncontrolled hypertensives completed clinic-based anthropometric and resting BP evaluations prior to randomization, and again at months 1, 3 and 6. Generalized linear mixed modeling (GLMM) revealed statistically significant time-by-treatment interactions (p < 0.0001) indicating significant reductions in resting systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) for the SMASH group vs. the standard care (SC) control group across all time points. 70.6% of SMASH subjects vs. 15.8% of the SC group reached BP control (< 140/90 mmH) at month 1 (p < 0.001). At month 6, 94.4% of the SMASH vs. 41.2% of the SC group exhibited controlled BP (p < 0.003). Our findings provide encouraging evidence that efficacious mHealth, chronic disease, medical regimen, self-management programs can be developed following principles of patient-centered, theory-guided design.
Deformation-Induced Martensitic Transformation in Cu-Zr-Zn Bulk Metallic Glass Composites
Authors: Wu Dianyu , Song Kaikai , Cao Chongde , Li Ran , Wang Gang , Wu Yuan , Wan Feng , Ding Fuli , Shi Yue , Bai Xiaojun , Kaban Ivan , Eckert Jürgen
Published: November 2015

The microstructures and mechanical properties of (Cu0.5Zr0.5)100−xZnx (x = 0, 1.5, 2.5, 4.5, 7, 10, and 14 at. %) bulk metallic glass (BMG) composites were studied. CuZr martensitic crystals together with minor B2 CuZr and amorphous phases dominate the microstructures of the as-quenched samples with low Zn additions (x = 0, 1.5, and 2.5 at. %), while B2 CuZr and amorphous phases being accompanied with minor martensitic crystals form at a higher Zn content (x = 4.5, 7, 10, and 14 at. %). The fabricated Cu-Zr-Zn BMG composites exhibit macroscopically appreciable compressive plastic strain and obvious work-hardening due to the formation of multiple shear bands and the deformation-induced martensitic transformation (MT) within B2 crystals. The present BMG composites could be a good candidate as high-performance structural materials.
Synthesis of Ordered Mesoporous CuO/CeO2 Composite Frameworks as Anode Catalysts for Water Oxidation
Authors: Markoulaki Ι Vassiliki , Papadas Ioannis , Kornarakis Ioannis , Armatas Gerasimos
Published: November 2015

Cerium-rich metal oxide materials have recently emerged as promising candidates for the photocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this article, we report the synthesis of ordered mesoporous CuO/CeO2 composite frameworks with different contents of copper(II) oxide and demonstrate their activity for photocatalytic O2 production via UV-Vis light-driven oxidation of water. Mesoporous CuO/CeO2 materials have been successfully prepared by a nanocasting route, using mesoporous silica as a rigid template. X-ray diffraction, electron transmission microscopy and N2 porosimetry characterization of the as-prepared products reveal a mesoporous structure composed of parallel arranged nanorods, with a large surface area and a narrow pore size distribution. The molecular structure and optical properties of the composite materials were investigated with Raman and UV-Vis/NIR diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. Catalytic results indicated that incorporation of CuO clusters in the CeO2 lattice improved the photochemical properties. As a result, the CuO/CeO2 composite catalyst containing ~38 wt % CuO reaches a high O2 evolution rate of ~19.6 µmol·h−1 (or 392 µmol·h−1·g−1) with an apparent quantum efficiency of 17.6% at λ = 365 ± 10 nm. This OER activity compares favorably with that obtained from the non-porous CuO/CeO2 counterpart (~1.3 µmol·h−1) and pure mesoporous CeO2 (~1 µmol·h−1).
Impact of Maternal Diet on the Epigenome during In Utero Life and the Developmental Programming of Diseases in Childhood and Adulthood
Authors: Lee Ho-Sun
Published: November 2015

Exposure to environmental factors in early life can influence developmental processes and long-term health in humans. Early life nutrition and maternal diet are well-known examples of conditions shown to influence the risk of developing metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, in adulthood. It is increasingly accepted that environmental compounds, including nutrients, can produce changes in the genome activity that, in spite of not altering the DNA sequence, can produce important, stable and, in some instances, transgenerational alterations in the phenotype. Epigenetics refers to changes in gene function that cannot be explained by changes in the DNA sequence, with DNA methylation patterns/histone modifications that can make important contributions to epigenetic memory. The epigenome can be considered as an interface between the genome and the environment that is central to the generation of phenotypes and their stability throughout the life course. To better understand the role of maternal health and nutrition in the initiation and progression of diseases in childhood and adulthood, it is necessary to identify the physiological and/or pathological roles of specific nutrients on the epigenome and how dietary interventions in utero and early life could modulate disease risk through epigenomic alteration.
29ièmes Journées Franco-Belges de Pharmacochimie: Meeting Report
Authors: Committee The
Published: November 2015

The “Journées Franco-Belges de Pharmacochimie” is a recognized two-day annual meeting on Medicinal Chemistry that is renowned for the advanced science presented, conviviality, and outstanding opportunities for senior and young scientists to exchange knowledge. Abstracts of plenary lectures, oral communications, and posters presented during the meeting are collected in this report.
Non-Monotonic Survival of Staphylococcus aureus with Respect to Ciprofloxacin Concentration Arises from Prophage-Dependent Killing of Persisters
Authors: Sandvik Elizabeth , Fazen Christopher , Henry Theresa , Mok Wendy , Brynildsen Mark
Published: November 2015

Staphylococcus aureus is a notorious pathogen with a propensity to cause chronic, non-healing wounds. Bacterial persisters have been implicated in the recalcitrance of S. aureus infections, and this motivated us to examine the persistence of S. aureus to ciprofloxacin, a quinolone antibiotic. Upon treatment of exponential phase S. aureus with ciprofloxacin, we observed that survival was a non-monotonic function of ciprofloxacin concentration. Maximal killing occurred at 1 µg/mL ciprofloxacin, which corresponded to survival that was up to ~40-fold lower than that obtained with concentrations ≥ 5 µg/mL. Investigation of this phenomenon revealed that the non-monotonic response was associated with prophage induction, which facilitated killing of S. aureus persisters. Elimination of prophage induction with tetracycline was found to prevent cell lysis and persister killing. We anticipate that these findings may be useful for the design of quinolone treatments.
Feasibility of Ultra-Thin Fiber-Optic Dosimeters for Radiotherapy Dosimetry
Authors: Lee Bongsoo , Kwon Guwon , Shin Sang , Kim Jaeseok , Yoo Wook , Ji Young , Jang Kyoung
Published: November 2015

In this study, prototype ultra-thin fiber-optic dosimeters were fabricated using organic scintillators, wavelength shifting fibers, and plastic optical fibers. The sensor probes of the ultra-thin fiber-optic dosimeters consisted of very thin organic scintillators with thicknesses of 100, 150 and 200 μm. These types of sensors cannot only be used to measure skin or surface doses but also provide depth dose measurements with high spatial resolution. With the ultra-thin fiber-optic dosimeters, surface doses for gamma rays generated from a Co-60 therapy machine were measured. Additionally, percentage depth doses in the build-up regions were obtained by using the ultra-thin fiber-optic dosimeters, and the results were compared with those of external beam therapy films and a conventional fiber-optic dosimeter.
Aging and Resilience: Older Women’s Responses to Change and Adversity
Authors: Gulbrandsen Cari , Walsh Christine
Published: November 2015

The primary objective of the qualitative study was to describe women’s resilience in older adulthood according to older women’s interpretations of their experiences and the contexts of their lives. Intersectionality and critical feminist gerontology served as theoretical frameworks for examining, interpreting and highlighted the dynamic nature of intersecting identities and the interrelationships between identity and contextual factors. Constructivist grounded theory methodology was used to identify themes that represent older women’s subjective interpretations of their experiences with adversity and to construct definitions of resilience based on their experiences. The aspects of identity that women in the study associated with their experiences of adversity and their resilience were age, physical and mental health, marital status and income. Women in the study emphasized how subjective interpretations influenced the meaning they associated with events, circumstances, or changes that accompanied aging and their understanding of the role of identities in those experiences.
Three Duality Symmetries between Photons and Cosmic String Loops, and Macro and Micro Black Holes
Authors: Jou David , Sciacca Michele , Mongiovì Maria
Published: November 2015

We present a review of two thermal duality symmetries between two different kinds of systems: photons and cosmic string loops, and macro black holes and micro black holes, respectively. It also follows a third joint duality symmetry amongst them through thermal equilibrium and stability between macro black holes and photon gas, and micro black holes and string loop gas, respectively. The possible cosmological consequences of these symmetries are discussed.
Diverse Profiles of Ricin-Cell Interactions in the Lung Following Intranasal Exposure to Ricin
Authors: Sapoznikov Anita , Falach Reut , Mazor Ohad , Alcalay Ron , Gal Yoav , Seliger Nehama , Sabo Tamar , Kronman Chanoch
Published: November 2015

Ricin, a plant-derived exotoxin, inhibits protein synthesis by ribosomal inactivation. Due to its wide availability and ease of preparation, ricin is considered a biothreat, foremost by respiratory exposure. We examined the in vivo interactions between ricin and cells of the lungs in mice intranasally exposed to the toxin and revealed multi-phasic cell-type-dependent binding profiles. While macrophages (MΦs) and dendritic cells (DCs) displayed biphasic binding to ricin, monophasic binding patterns were observed for other cell types; epithelial cells displayed early binding, while B cells and endothelial cells bound toxin late after intoxication. Neutrophils, which were massively recruited to the intoxicated lung, were refractive to toxin binding. Although epithelial cells bound ricin as early as MΦs and DCs, their rates of elimination differed considerably; a reduction in epithelial cell counts occurred late after intoxication and was restricted to alveolar type II cells only. The differential binding and cell-elimination patterns observed may stem from dissimilar accessibility of the toxin to different cells in the lung and may also reflect unequal interactions of the toxin with different cell-surface receptors. The multifaceted interactions observed in this study between ricin and the various cells of the target organ should be considered in the future development of efficient post-exposure countermeasures against ricin intoxication.
Chikungunya Virus Replication in Salivary Glands of the Mosquito Aedes albopictus
Authors: Vega-Rúa Anubis , Schmitt Christine , Bonne Isabelle , Krijnse Locker Jacomine , Failloux Anna-Bella
Published: November 2015

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an emerging arbovirus transmitted to humans by mosquitoes such as Aedes albopictus. To be transmitted, CHIKV must replicate in the mosquito midgut, then disseminate in the hemocele and infect the salivary glands before being released in saliva. We have developed a standardized protocol to visualize viral particles in the mosquito salivary glands using transmission electron microscopy. Here we provide direct evidence for CHIKV replication and storage in Ae. albopictus salivary glands.
Empirical Estimation of Total Nitrogen and Total Phosphorus Concentration of Urban Water Bodies in China Using High Resolution IKONOS Multispectral Imagery
Authors: Liu Jiaming , Zhang Yanjun , Yuan Di , Song Xingyuan
Published: November 2015

Measuring total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) is important in managing heavy polluted urban waters in China. This study uses high spatial resolution IKONOS imagery with four multispectral bands, which roughly correspond to Landsat/TM bands 1–4, to determine TN and TP in small urban rivers and lakes in China. By using Lake Cihu and the lower reaches of Wen-Rui Tang (WRT) River as examples, this paper develops both multiple linear regressions (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN) models to estimate TN and TP concentrations from high spatial resolution remote sensing imagery and in situ water samples collected concurrently with overpassing satellite. The measured and estimated values of both MLR and ANN models are in good agreement (R2 > 0.85 and RMSE < 2.50). The empirical equations selected by MLR are more straightforward, whereas the estimated accuracy using ANN model is better (R2 > 0.86 and RMSE < 0.89). Results validate the potential of using high resolution IKONOS multispectral imagery to study the chemical states of small-sized urban water bodies. The spatial distribution maps of TN and TP concentrations generated by the ANN model can inform the decision makers of variations in water quality in Lake Cihu and lower reaches of WRT River. The approaches and equations developed in this study could be applied to other urban water bodies for water quality monitoring.