bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fouling-resistant membranes for separation of oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Zhang Guangyu , Li Longbiao , Huang Yan , Hozumi Atsushi , Sonoda Tsutomu , Su Zhaohui
Published: January 2018

Membranes coated with a polyelectrolyte multilayer can resist fouling during the separation of emulsions stabilized by ionic surfactants.
Ultrabright red AIEgens for two-photon vascular imaging with high resolution and deep penetration
Authors: Qin Wei , Zhang Pengfei , Li Hui , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Cai Yuanjing , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Qian Jun , Zheng Wei , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: January 2018

A successful strategy for the design of ultrabright red luminogens with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) features is reported. The AIE dots can be utilized as efficient fluorescent probes for in vivo deep-tissue imaging with high penetration depth and high contrast.
Polyhedral Cu2O to Cu pseudomorphic conversion for stereoselective alkyne semihydrogenation
Authors: Rej Sourav , Madasu Mahesh , Tan Chih-Shan , Hsia Chi-Fu , Huang Michael H.
Published: January 2018

Cu2O nanocrystals can be pseudomorphically converted into Cu crystals through ammonia borane reduction, releasing hydrogen for stereoselective semihydrogenation of diphenylacetylene.
Neutral ligand TIPA-based two 2D metal–organic frameworks: ultrahigh selectivity of C2H2/CH4and efficient sensing and sorption of Cr(vi)
Authors: Fu Hong-Ru , Zhao Ying , Zhou Zhan , Yang Xiao-Gang , Ma Lu-Fang
Published: January 2018

Two 2D porous frameworks are synthesized base on tri(4-imidazolylphenyl)amine. Compound1exhibits that the ultrahigh selectivity of C2H2/CH4, the highest one reported to date. Compound2combines the ultrahigh sensitivity and trapping for Cr2O72−in aqueous solution.
Total synthesis of the reported structure of ceanothine Dviaa novel macrocyclization strategy
Authors: Lee Jisun , Joullié Madeleine M.
Published: January 2018

A novel regio- and stereocontrolled macrocyclization strategy was developed for the first synthesis of ceanothine D.
Evolution of relative magnetic helicity
Authors: Yang Shangbin , Büchner Jörg , Skála Jan , Zhang Hongqi
Published: January 2018

Context. For a better understanding of the dynamics of the solar corona, it is important to analyse the evolution of the helicity of the magnetic field. Since the helicity cannot be directly determined by observations, we have recently proposed a method to calculate the relative magnetic helicity in a finite volume for a given magnetic field, which however required the flux to be balanced separately on all the sides of the considered volume.

Aims. We developed a scheme to obtain the vector potential in a volume without the above restriction at the boundary. We studied the dissipation and escape of relative magnetic helicity from an active region.

Methods. In order to allow finite magnetic fluxes through the boundaries, a Coulomb gauge was constructed that allows for global magnetic flux balance. The property of sinusoidal function was used to obtain the vector potentials at the 12 edges of the considered rectangular volume extending above an active region. We tested and verified our method in a theoretical fore-free magnetic field model.

Results. We applied the new method to the former calculation data and found a difference of less than 1.2%. We also applied our method to the magnetic field above active region NOAA 11429 obtained by a new photospheric-data-driven magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) model code GOEMHD3. We analysed the magnetic helicity evolution in the solar corona using our new method. We find that the normalized magnetic helicity (H∕Φ2) is equal to −0.038 when fast magnetic reconnection is triggered. This value is comparable to the previous value (−0.029) in the MHD simulations when magnetic reconnection happened and the observed normalized magnetic helicity (−0.036) from the eruption of newly emerging active regions. We find that only 8% of the accumulated magnetic helicity is dissipated after it is injected through the bottom boundary. This is in accordance with the Woltjer conjecture. Only 2% of the magnetic helicity injected from the bottom boundary escapes through the corona. This is consistent with the observation of magnetic clouds, which could take magnetic helicity into the interplanetary space. In the case considered here, several halo coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and two X-class solar flares originate from this active region.
Probing sunspots with two-skip time–distance helioseismology
Authors: Duvall Thomas L. , Cally Paul S. , Przybylski Damien , Nagashima Kaori , Gizon Laurent
Published: January 2018

Context.Previous helioseismology of sunspots has been sensitive to both the structural and magnetic aspects of sunspot structure.

Aims.We aim to develop a technique that is insensitive to the magnetic component so the two aspects can be more readily separated.

Methods.We study waves reflected almost vertically from the underside of a sunspot. Time–distance helioseismology was used to measure travel times for the waves. Ray theory and a detailed sunspot model were used to calculate travel times for comparison.

Results.It is shown that these large distance waves are insensitive to the magnetic field in the sunspot. The largest travel time differences for any solar phenomena are observed.

Conclusions.With sufficient modeling effort, these should lead to better understanding of sunspot structure.
Analytical method for establishing indentation rolling resistance
Authors: Gładysiewicz Lech , Konieczna Martyna
Published: January 2018

Belt conveyors are highly reliable machines able to work in special operating conditions. Harsh environment, long distance of transporting and great mass of transported martials are cause of high energy usage. That is why research in the field of belt conveyor transportation nowadays focuses on reducing the power consumption without lowering their efficiency. In this paper, previous methods for testing rolling resistance are described, and new method designed by authors was presented. New method of testing rolling resistance is quite simple and inexpensive. Moreover it allows to conduct the experimental tests of the impact of different parameters on the value of indentation rolling resistance such as core design, cover thickness, ambient temperature, idler travel frequency, or load value as well. Finally results of tests of relationship between rolling resistance and idler travel frequency and between rolling resistance and idler travel speed was presented.
Experimental tests of the impact of selected parameters on the indentation rolling resistances
Authors: Woźniak Dariusz , Gładysiewicz Lech , Konieczna Martyna
Published: January 2018

Belt conveyors are main part of transporting systems in mines and in many other branches of industry. During conveyor belt works different types of resistances are generated. Indentation rolling resistance is the most significant component of the resistances from the perspective of energy losses and it cause the biggest costs as well. According to latest state of analyses and measurements it is well known that theoretical rolling resistance were underestimated in comparison with the measured in-situ one. In this paper new method for determination indentation rolling resistance is presented. The authors compared theoretically and experimentally established damping factors. The relation between these two values enabled to obtain more precise equation for damping function. This function is one of the most important component in calculation of the rolling resistance. In new theoretical model value of rolling resistance is nearly twice higher than this used so far.
Impact of type of the roof rocks on location and range of endogenous fires particular hazard zone by in goaf with caving
Authors: Tutak Magdalena , Brodny Jarosław
Published: January 2018

Hazard of endogenous fires is one of the basic and common presented occupational safety hazards in coal mine in Poland and in the world. This hazard means possibility of coal self-ignition as the result of its self-heating process in mining heading or its surrounding. In underground coal-mining during ventilating of operating longwalls takes place migration of parts of airflow to goaf with caving. In a case when in these goaf a coal susceptible to self-ignition occurs, then the airflow through these goaf may influence on formation of favorable conditions for coal oxidation and subsequently to its self-heating and self-ignition. Endogenous fire formed in such conditions can pose a serious hazards for the crew and for continuity of operation of mining plant. From the practical point of view a very significant meaning has determination of the zone in the goaf with caving, in which necessary conditions for occurence of endogenous fire are fulfilled. In the real conditions determination of such a zone is practically impossible. The main aim of the analysis was to determine the impact of type of the roof rocks forming the goaf on the location and range of endogenous fires particular hazard zone by in these goaf. For determined mining-geological conditions, the critical value of velocity of airflow and oxygen concentration in goaf, conditioning initiation of coal oxidation process were determined.
Review of smoothing methods for enhancement of noisy data from heavy-duty LHD mining machines
Authors: Wodecki Jacek , Michalak Anna , Stefaniak Paweł
Published: January 2018

Appropriate analysis of data measured on heavy-duty mining machines is essential for processes monitoring, management and optimization. Some particular classes of machines, for example LHD (load-haul-dump) machines, hauling trucks, drilling/bolting machines etc. are characterized with cyclicity of operations. In those cases, identification of cycles and their segments or in other words – simply data segmentation is a key to evaluate their performance, which may be very useful from the management point of view, for example leading to introducing optimization to the process. However, in many cases such raw signals are contaminated with various artifacts, and in general are expected to be very noisy, which makes the segmentation task very difficult or even impossible. To deal with that problem, there is a need for efficient smoothing methods that will allow to retain informative trends in the signals while disregarding noises and other undesired non-deterministic components. In this paper authors present a review of various approaches to diagnostic data smoothing. Described methods can be used in a fast and efficient way, effectively cleaning the signals while preserving informative deterministic behaviour, that is a crucial to precise segmentation and other approaches to industrial data analysis.
Comparative analysis of sustainable value distribution for stakeholders in the mining industry
Authors: Lorenc Sylwia , Kustra Arkadiusz
Published: January 2018

The objective of this article is the analysis and comparison of the value distribution process that takes place in enterprises for stakeholders. The following coal mining enterprises are subject of this work: JSW S.A., KGHM S.A., and LW Bogdanka S.A, for which the directions of value distribution in the years 2011-2016 were presented. The article defines the main groups of the partnerships’ stakeholders, such as the owners, staff, suppliers, equity providers, the country budget and the local governments’ budgets. The sustainable value benchmark was defined as the benefits received by the stakeholders through the allocation of financial surplus. The value defined for the abovementioned stakeholders was assessed according to the Free Cash Flow (FCF) methodology.
Methane and carbon dioxide emission measurements in selected area of the Polish Western Carpathians
Authors: Mojżysz Marzena , Góra Adrianna , Sechman Henryk , Guzy Piotr , Twaróg Anna
Published: January 2018

The paper presents measurement results of methane and carbon dioxide emission in Western Carpathians. The investigations were carried out with application of static chamber method in 10 stations. An emission and dynamics of changes within methane and carbon dioxide concentrations were examined by measuring the emission directly from the land surface as well as after drilling an additional hole. In total, 40 gas samples were taken, which were then subjected to chromatographic analysis. The measurements of methane and carbon dioxide emission have not shown significant emission values of these gases. The average value of methane emission from soil to the atmosphere at selected measurement sites was -0.451 mg*m-2*d-1, while the average methane emission with the use of the hole, equalled to -0.361 mg*m-2*d-1. The changes of carbon dioxide concetration were opposite. Higher emission of this gas was showed due to its natural escaping to the atmosphere with an average concetration of 1829,3 mg*m-2*d-1. Conducted studies show that methane and carbon dioxide emission are low in the studied area. It does not confirm the elevated values of light hydrocarbons and associated components which were previously recorded in the soil gas samples.
Seismic signals hard clipping overcoming
Authors: Olszowa Paula , Sokolowski Jakub
Published: January 2018

In signal processing the clipping is understand as the phenomenon of limiting the signal beyond certain threshold. It is often related to overloading of a sensor. Two particular types of clipping are being recognized: soft and hard. Beyond the limiting value soft clipping reduces the signal real gain while the hard clipping stiffly sets the signal values at the limit. In both cases certain amount of signal information is lost. Obviously if one possess the model which describes the considered signal and the threshold value (which might be slightly more difficult to obtain in the soft clipping case), the attempt of restoring the signal can be made. Commonly it is assumed that the seismic signals take form of an impulse response of some specific system. This may lead to belief that the sine wave may be the most appropriate to fit in the clipping period. However, this should be tested. In this paper the possibility of overcoming the hard clipping in seismic signals originating from a geoseismic station belonging to an underground mine is considered. A set of raw signals will be hard-clipped manually and then couple different functions will be fitted and compared in terms of least squares. The results will be then analysed.
Reduction of atmospheric disturbances in PSInSAR measure technique based on ENVISAT ASAR data for Erta Ale Ridge
Authors: Kopeć Anna
Published: January 2018

The interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) is becoming more and more popular to investigate surface deformation, associated with volcanism, earthquakes, landslides, and post-mining surface subsidence. The measuring accuracy depends on many factors: surface, time and geometric decorrelation, orbit errors, however the largest challenges are the tropospheric delays. The spatial and temporal variations in temperature, pressure, and relative humidity are responsible for tropospheric delays. So far, many methods have been developed, but researchers are still searching for the one, that will allow to correct interferograms consistently in different regions and times. The article focuses on examining the methods based on empirical phase-based methods, spectrometer measurements and weather model. These methods were applied to the ENVISAT ASAR data for the Erta Ale Ridge in the Afar Depression, East Africa
3D modeling of underground objects with the use of SLAM technology on the example of historical mine in Ciechanowice (Ołowiane Range, The Sudetes)
Authors: Wajs Jaroslaw , Kasza Damian , Zagożdżon Paweł P. , Zagożdżon Katarzyna D.
Published: January 2018

Terrestrial Laser Scanning is a currently one of the most popular methods for producing representations of 3D objects. This paper presents the potential of applying the mobile laser scanning method to inventory underground objects. The examined location was a historic crystalline limestone mine situated in the vicinity of Ciechanowice village (Kaczawa Mts., SW Poland). The authors present a methodology for performing measurements and for processing the obtained results, whose accuracy is additionally verified.
Participatory GIS in design of the Wroclaw University of Science and Technology campus web map and spatial analysis of campus area quality
Authors: Blachowski Jan , Łuczak Jakub , Zagrodnik Paulina
Published: January 2018

Public participation geographic information system (GIS) and participatory mapping data collection methods are means that enhance capacity in generating, managing, and communicating spatial information in various fields ranging from local planning to environmental management. In this study these methods have been used in two ways. The first one, to gather information on the additional functionality of campus web map expected by its potential users, i.e. students, staff and visitors, through web based survey. The second, to collect geographically referenced information on campus areas that are liked and disliked in a geo-survey carried out with ArcGIS Online GeoForm Application. The results of the first survey were used to map facilities such as: bicycle infrastructure, building entrances, wheelchair accessible infrastructure and benches. The results of the second one, to analyse the most and the least attractive parts of the campus with heat and hot spot analyses in GIS. In addition, the answers have been studied with regard to the visual and functional aspects of campus area raised in the survey. The thematic layers developed in the results of field mapping and geoprocessing of geosurvey data were included in the campus web map project. The paper describes the applied methodology of data collection, processing, analysis, interpretation and geovisualisation.
Translation of a Digital Line into another according to various Digitization Processes
Authors: Borel Jean-Pierre
Published: January 2018

We introduce unusual methods for the digitization process of a line. A square pixel of the computer screen is blackened when the line crosses a special part of this pixel, called the active pixel. The shape of this active pixel is discussed, in the following sense: can we obtain the new Freeman Code of the line, using of a mechanical transformation of the initial Freeman Code, which is the classical Cutting Sequence? Our choice is to limit mechanical transformations to the existence of a given transducer, so that everytime we put in (a power of) the classical Freeman Code of a line, the output recovers the new Freeman Code. Then we prove that such a transducer exists if and only if the active pixel is a polygon with rational vertices and big enough. The same result can be proved if we introduce several grey levels in the representation of the line. Then we get some antialising effects.
The diet of reservoir perch before, during and after establishment of non-native tubenose goby
Authors: Všetičková Lucie , Mikl Libor , Adámek Zdeněk , Prášek Václav , Roche Kevin , Jurajda Pavel
Published: January 2018

In recent decades, gobiid species have increased their distribution throughout Europe and now often represent the dominant genus along many rivers and canals. In this study, we assessed the role of tubenose goby (Proterorhinus semilunaris) as a prey species of native perch (Perca fluviatilis) in a lowland reservoir soon after their initial introduction in 1994 (sampling started 1998) and 17 years after establishment (2011–2012). We compare these data with perch diet composition from before introduction (1981–1982). Our data indicate that tubenose gobies quickly became the dominant species along the reservoir bankside, making them an attractive prey for ≥1 + perch. There was a clear increasing trend in the numbers of larger perch caught along the rip-rap, with the largest fish clearly specialising on gobies. As such, introduction of tubenose gobies has had a pronounced effect on food web and population dynamics along the littoral zone. While goby numbers appear to have dropped significantly in recent years, apparently due to predation pressure, further studies are needed to assess whether such changes have had any general impact on population and food web dynamics within the reservoir.
Eutrophic water or fertile sediment: which is more important for the growth of invasive aquatic macrophyte Myriophyllum aquaticum?
Authors: Tan Bingchang , He Hu , Gu Jiao , Li Kuanyi
Published: January 2018

Invasive macrophyte Myriophyllum aquaticum is capable of assimilating nutrients from both the sediments and the water column. However, which is the major source of nutrients supporting M. aquaticum growth under various nutrient regimes has not been well documented. Here we conducted a two-factorial outdoor experiment (three levels of nutrient loading and two types of sediments) from 23 May to 27 June 2016, to assess M. aquaticum responses to different nutrient levels in the water column and the sediment. Results showed that concentrations of total nitrogen, total phosphorus and chlorophyll a in the water column increased in the treatment groups, but decreased slightly in the control group (nutrient-poor sediment and no nutrient addition). Sediment type had a significant effect on the growth M. aquaticum, while there were no significant effects of nutrient loading levels and the interactions between the two factors. Mean relative growth rate, mean plant height, mean stem diameter, the number of lateral branches and roots in the nutrient-rich sediment treatments were 1.6, 1.2, 1.6, 3.2 and 5.9 folds greater than in the nutrient-poor sediment treatments, respectively. These results suggest that nutrient-rich sediment has a positive effect on the growth of M. aquaticum. This study reveals possible expansion mechanism of the exotic M. aquaticum in China, and may provide valuable information on the ecological restoration of eutrophic freshwaters.
Quel avenir pour les lymphocytes B infiltrant les tumeurs solides
Authors: Kaplon Hélène , Dieu-Nosjean Marie-Caroline
Published: January 2018

Le rôle des lymphocytes B (LB) dans l’immuno-surveillance des tumeurs a longtemps été négligé car il a été souvent considéré comme peu efficace, voire pro-tumoral. Des études approfondies du microenvironnement immunitaire, notamment dans les cancers humains, ont permis de préciser la nature des interactions entre le LB et ses partenaires cellulaires. Cette revue examine un certain nombre de paramètres qui dictent le devenir du LB vers une fonction pro-ou anti-tumorale. Ainsi, la capacité à élaborer une immunité antitumorale qui repose sur les lymphocytes B, et/ ou des anticorps qu’ils sécrètent, fait appel à une palette très variée de mécanismes moléculaires et cellulaires dont certains pourraient représenter de nouvelles cibles thérapeutiques en oncologie.
Incorporation of capric acid in pumpkin seed oil by sn-1,3 regioselective lipase-catalyzed acidolysis
Authors: Sousa Vanessa , Campos Vitor , Nunes Patrícia , Pires-Cabral Paula
Published: January 2018

Structured lipids (SLs) are novel triacylglycerols obtained by changing the native fatty acid (FA) profiles or by the incorporation of a new desired FA in the acylglycerol backbone. These modified fats present important medical and functional properties for food applications. This work aimed to synthetize a MLM-type SL, which consists of triacylglycerols containing a medium-chain FA (M) at sn-1,3 positions and a long-chain FA (L) at sn-2 position, by acidolysis of pumpkin seed oil with capric acid, catalyzed by a commercial lipase preparation from Thermomyces lanuginosa (Lipozyme TL IM). Reactions were performed at 45 °C, in solvent-free media, at 1:2 molar ratio (pumpkin seed oil:capric acid) and a fixed amount of immobilized lipase of 5%, 10%, 15% or 20%. Incorporations of C10:0 increased with time up to 31 h (29.9 ± 0.7 mol-%) when 5% lipase load was used. Significant differences were only observed between the results obtained with 5 and 20% of biocatalyst load. The subsequent experiment was carried out with 5% lipase load, at 45 °C, 1:2 molar ratio and in the presence of n-hexane. The results showed slightly higher incorporation yields in the presence of solvent, namely at 48 h-reaction (34.7 ± 1.0 mol-%). However, since the structured lipids are to be used in food products, together with environmental and economic concerns, solvent-free systems are preferred. In this study, the synthesis of a MLM-type SL from pumpkin seed oil for food uses was well succeeded.
Procedural aspects of healthcare quality control in Latvia and its effect on legal protection of patients
Authors: Liepins A. , Joksts O. , Vetra J.
Published: January 2018

According to the European Commission data, 8–12% of patients cared for in hospitals throughout the European Union have suffered accidents related to the healthcare provided for them. The Directive 2011/24/EU of the European Parliament and Council of 9th March 2011 on the application of patients’ rights in cross-border healthcare provides that the Member States shouldensurethat patients have easily accessible and transparent appeal procedures and mechanisms that provide possibilities for legal remedies in cases of inflicted harm during medical treatment according to regulations of the respective Member State. Healthcare quality control mechanisms are intended for two major purposes: to identify accidents that have occurred during medical treatment and to prevent similar accidents from reoccurring in the future. The aim of this article is to evaluate, firstly, the procedural aspects of healthcare quality control mechanisms in Latvia and, secondly, how healthcare quality control mechanisms have been affected with the implementation of the Directive 2011/24/EU in Latvian legal order, providing for a specific legal remedy – the newly created Medical risk fund. Conclusions are made on the procedural nature of the patients’ right to submit complaints and also the developments in Latvian court practice related to the healthcare quality control. The authors have also analysed regulations related to the Medical risk fund, its influence on the civil liability mechanisms of medical practitioners, as well as the patient’s right to obtainjust compensation for the harm inflicted to his health and the legal nature of opinions of the Health Inspectorate of Latvia.
The motivational peculiarities of bribe-takers
Authors: Krivins A.
Published: January 2018

Criminology (as the scientific study of criminal behaviour on the individual and social level) and psychology (as the science, which seeks to understand individuals and groups) pay special attention to motivation – a theoretical construction, used to explain behaviour. In this article the motivation of recipients of bribery is widely investigated. In addition to such well-established motives as greediness, selfishness, prevalence of personal interest, the author analyzes also other criminal behaviour determinants. The works, which are used in this research are of the following authors: John Broadus Watson, Edward Lee Thorndike (Behavioural); Sigmund Freud, Erich Fromm (Psychoanalysis); Carl Rogers, Abraham Maslow (Existential-humanistic theories); William Isaac Thomas (Thomas theorem); Florian Witold Znaniecki (sociological theory); Erik Homburger Erikson (theory on psychosocial development of human beings); Jean William Fritz Piaget (theory of cognitive development); Herbert Lefcourt, Ronald Smith (Locus of Control) etc. As the result of this research the author has concluded that bribe-takers’ behaviour is determined by such psychological constructs as the desire for power, fear, envy, mental deflections, mania, feeling of exclusion, the need for extreme, oppressed creativity.
Social support as the role of social worker in work with dialysed clients
Authors: Kovalcikova N. , Zakova J.
Published: January 2018

The quality of life of individuals with chronic illness is strongly influenced by anticipated social support. In this regard we wanted to know how social support is reflected (perceived) in dialysis patients. The aim of the study was to measure the level of perceived social support in patients undergoing dialysis treatment. We utilized a quantitative research strategy using a standardized social support questionnaire - MOS. The respondents of the survey were clients of dialysis centres in Slovakia undergoing dialysis or peritoneal dialysis and willing to participate in our research. The results showed statistically significant difference in the perception of social support depending on the status of cohabitation. We did not find any significant difference relating to the type of dialysis treatment, its duration, age of respondents, involvement in self-help groups and the use of social services and compensations. The results show that the family acts as the key factor of providing social support and that family support is of the utmost importance for clients who undergo dialysis treatment. The study also contains recommendations for social work.
Casimir effect and graphene: Tunability, scalability, Casimir rotor
Authors: Martinez J. C. , Chen X. , Jalil M. B. A.
Published: January 2018

We study the combined effects of separated parallel disks, birefringence and surface currents on the Casimir force and torque. All three contribute to the Casimir force and surface currents from graphene permit tuning and switching from attraction to repulsion thus allowing for an oscillating Casimir force which can be relevant to parametric amplification applications. Only the latter two contribute to the Casimir torque and their combined effect can enhance the torque by at least tenfold (possibly more) compared to that due to birefringence alone, a hint at a scalable Casimir torque. We also consider a feasible non-contact rotor.
Current in a pulsed gas breakdown at a highly inhomogeneous electric field
Authors: Belomyttsev S. Ya. , Grishkov A. A. , Shklyaev V. A. , Ryzhov V. V.
Published: January 2018

This paper reports on a particle-in-cell and Monte Carlo simulation of the evolution of a pulsed breakdown in a gas-filled diode at a highly inhomogeneous electric field. The simulation shows that even during the formation of a conducting plasma channel, the diode can experience a current flow capable of greatly decreasing the diode voltage compared to its value in idle mode. This current is almost independent of the gap width and is due to fast plasma motion from the cathode to the anode.
Interaction of an along-shore propagating vortex with a vortex enclosed in a circular bay
Authors: Ryzhov Eugene A. , Koshel Konstantin V. , Sokolovskiy Mikhail A. , Carton Xavier
Published: January 2018

A simple dynamical model of vortex interactions taking place near a curved boundary mimicking a circular bay is formulated and examined. An initial configuration consisting of a point vortex in the bay and of an incident point vortex moving toward the bay along the straight part of the boundary is considered. Both vortices are of equal strengths. Typical stationary regimes of the bay-bound vortex when the incident vortex is far from the bay are obtained. When the incident vortex comes near the bay, its interaction with the bay-bound one may result in irregular motion of both vortices. Typical outcomes of the interaction are established to be (i) the incident vortex passes over the bay without forcing the bay-bound vortex to leave the bay; (ii) the incident vortex becomes entrapped within the bay, whereas the bay-bound vortex leaves it; (iii) both vortices leave the bay shortly after the interaction as separate vortices or as a bound leap-frogging pair; (iv) both vortices exhibit convoluted dynamics being entrapped for a considerable time within the bay, but in the end either one or both of the vortices leave the bay. The model might be useful in getting some insight into typical regimes of eddy dynamics near curved boundaries in the context of ocean studies provided the eddies remain coherent during the interaction.
Near-field flat focusing mirrors
Authors: Cheng Yu-Chieh , Staliunas Kestutis
Published: January 2018

This article reviews recent progress towards the design of near-field flat focusing mirrors, focusing/imaging light patterns in reflection. An important feature of such flat focusing mirrors is their transverse invariance, as they do not possess any optical axis. We start with a review of the physical background to the different focusing mechanisms of near- and far-field focusing. These near-field focusing devices like flat lenses and the reviewed near-field focusing mirrors can implement planar focusing devices without any optical axis. In contrast, various types of far-field planar focusing devices, such as high-contrast gratings and metasurfaces, unavoidably break the transverse invariance due to their radially symmetrical structures. The particular realizations of near-field flat focusing mirrors including Bragg-like dielectric mirrors and dielectric subwavelength gratings are the main subjects of the review. The first flat focusing mirror was demonstrated with a chirped mirror and was shown to manage an angular dispersion for beam focusing, similar to the management of chromatic dispersion for pulse compression. Furthermore, the reviewed optimized chirped mirror demonstrated a long near-field focal length, hardly achieved by a flat lens or a planar hyperlens. Two more different configurations of dielectric subwavelength gratings that focus a light beam at normal or oblique incidence are also reviewed. We also summarize and compare focusing performance, limitations, and future perspectives between the reviewed flat focusing mirrors and other planar focusing devices including a flat lens with a negative-index material, a planar hyperlens, a high-contrast grating, and a metasurface.
The defamatory potential of ad hominem criticism: guidance for advocacy in public forums
Authors: Finn Hugh C.
Published: January 2018

Ad hominem criticism seeks to discredit an argument by attacking the qualities of the arguer, rather than the merits of the argument. Although there are compelling reasons to avoid ad hominem criticism, it may sometimes be appropriate as a means of responding to ‘expert’ arguments advanced in public forums. However, conservation biologists should evaluate the defamatory potential of any proposed ad hominem criticism and consider whether the criticism: (1) impugns a person’s reputation in a trade, profession or business; (2) has a factual grounding that is based on evidence that could be used in court; and (3) is better formulated as a statement of opinion than as a statement of fact. From a defamation perspective, the purpose and context for an ad hominem criticism is critical and conservation biologists should always consider whether, if viewed objectively, their conduct in making the criticism would be assessed as fair-minded, reasonable, and supportive of debate over an issue of public interest. Isolated and unsupported ad hominem remarks should not be made. Conservation biologists should also be aware that there are circumstances in which critiques of the methods, analyses, logical approaches, and conclusions of an expert could be said to be defamatory of that person, but that courts also recognise the importance of scientific debate. Conservation biologists should carefully consider the wording of any proposed ad hominem criticism, particularly in terms of the precise facts to be alleged and the particular evaluative words or phrases to be applied, and should also ensure that the criticism has a proper purpose, is well supported, and clearly distinguishes between comments that express an opinion and those that state a fact.
Utilizing This New Medium of Mass Communication: The Regional Film Distribution Programme at the Cleveland Public Library, 1948–1951
Authors: Stauffer Suzanne
Published: January 2018

In 1948, the Carnegie Corporation made grants of $25,000 to the Cleveland Public Library and $15,000 to the Missouri State Library to set up three-year regional educational film distribution programmes in northern Ohio and in Missouri of 16 mm reel-to-reel motion picture films. In Cleveland, films were distributed within a consortium of ten library systems in the region; twenty library systems participated in Missouri. These successful programmes served as models for other library systems and lasted well into the last quarter of the twentieth century, when 16 mm reel-to-reel motion picture films in libraries were replaced with videocassettes and later DVDs and the programmes were no longer necessary. This paper explores the antecedents of the programme at the Cleveland Public Library as well as the careers of the two women, Patricia Blair and Virginia Beard, who were responsible for the design of the programme and for its success. Both became nationally recognized experts on the use of 16 mm films in public libraries and rose to national prominence in the American Library Association.
Atypical chemokine receptor 4 shapes activated B cell fate
Authors: Kara Ervin E. , Bastow Cameron R. , McKenzie Duncan R. , Gregor Carly E. , Fenix Kevin A. , Babb Rachelle , Norton Todd S. , Zotos Dimitra , Rodda Lauren B. , Hermes Jana R. , Bourne Katherine , Gilchrist Derek S. , Nibbs Robert J. , Alsharifi Mohammed , Vinuesa Carola G. , Tarlinton David M. , Brink Robert , Hill Geoffrey R. , Cyster Jason G. , Comerford Iain , McColl Shaun R.
Published: January 2018

Activated B cells can initially differentiate into three functionally distinct fates—early plasmablasts (PBs), germinal center (GC) B cells, or early memory B cells—by mechanisms that remain poorly understood. Here, we identify atypical chemokine receptor 4 (ACKR4), a decoy receptor that binds and degrades CCR7 ligands CCL19/CCL21, as a regulator of early activated B cell differentiation. By restricting initial access to splenic interfollicular zones (IFZs), ACKR4 limits the early proliferation of activated B cells, reducing the numbers available for subsequent differentiation. Consequently, ACKR4 deficiency enhanced early PB and GC B cell responses in a CCL19/CCL21-dependent and B cell–intrinsic manner. Conversely, aberrant localization of ACKR4-deficient activated B cells to the IFZ was associated with their preferential commitment to the early PB linage. Our results reveal a regulatory mechanism of B cell trafficking via an atypical chemokine receptor that shapes activated B cell fate.
Almost-periodic homogenization of elliptic problems in non-smooth domains
Authors: Geng Jun , Shi Bojing
Published: January 2018

We consider a family of second-order elliptic operators

{

L

ε

}

\{\mathcal {L}_\varepsilon \}

in divergence form with rapidly oscillating and almost-periodic coefficients in Lipschitz domains. By using the compactness method, we show that the uniform

W

1
,
p

W^{1,p}

estimate of second-order elliptic systems holds for

2
n

n
+
1

−
δ
>
p
>

2
n

n
−
1

+
δ

\frac {2n}{n+1}-\delta >p>\frac {2n}{n-1}+\delta

; the ranges are sharp for

n
=
2

n=2

or

n
=
3

n=3

. In the scalar case we obtain that the

W

1
,
p

W^{1,p}

estimate holds for

3
2

−
δ
>
p
>
3
+
δ

\frac {3}{2}-\delta >p>3+\delta

if

n
⩾
3

n\geqslant 3

, and

4
3

−
δ
>
p
>
4
+
δ

\frac {4}{3}-\delta >p>4+\delta

if

n
=
2

n=2

; the ranges of

p
p

are sharp.
Explicit formulas and vanishing conditions for certain coefficients of Drinfeld-Goss Hecke eigenforms
Authors: El-Guindy Ahmad
Published: January 2018

We obtain a closed form polynomial expression for certain coefficients of Drinfeld-Goss double-cuspidal modular forms which are eigenforms for the degree one Hecke operators with power eigenvalues, and we use those formulas to prove vanishing results for an infinite family of those coefficients.
White Blood Cell Count Improves Prediction of Delayed Cerebral Ischemia Following Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Al-Mufti Fawaz , Misiolek Kalina Anna , Roh David , Alawi Aws , Bauerschmidt Andrew , Park Soojin , Agarwal Sachin , Meyers Philip M , Connolly E Sander , Claassen Jan , Schmidt J Michael
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Immune dysregulation has long been implicated in the development of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship of inflammatory cell biomarkers with DCI.

METHODS

We evaluated 849 aSAH patients who were enrolled into a prospective observational cohort study and had a white blood cell (WBC) differential obtained within 72 h of bleed onset.

RESULTS

WBC count > 12.1 × 109/L (odds ratio 4.6; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9–11, P < 0.001) was the strongest Complete Blood Count (CBC) predictor of DCI after controlling for clinical grade (P < .001), thickness of SAH blood on admission computed tomography (P = .002), and clipping aneurysm repair (P < .001). A significant interaction between clinical grade and WBC count (odds ratio 0.8, 95% CI: 0.6–1.0, P = .02) revealed that good-grade patients with elevated WBC counts (49%: 273/558) had increased odds for DCI indistinguishable from poor-grade patients. Multivariable Cox regression also showed that elevated WBC counts in good-grade patients increased the hazard for DCI to that of poor-grade patients (hazard ratio 2.1, 95% CI 1.3–3.2, P < .001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of good-grade patients revealed that WBC count (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.63) is a stronger DCI predictor than the modified Fisher score (AUC: 0.57) and significantly improves multivariable DCI prediction models (Z = 2.0, P = .02, AUC: 0.73; PPV: 34%; NPV: 92%).

CONCLUSION

Good-grade patients with early elevations in WBC count have a similar risk and hazard for DCI as poor-grade patients. Good-grade patients without elevated WBC may be candidates to be safely downgraded from the intensive care unit, leading to cost savings for both patient families and hospitals.
Population Dynamics of Xanthomonads Associated with Bacterial Spot of Tomato and Pepper during 27 Years across Taiwan
Authors: Burlakoti Rishi Ram , Hsu Chiou-fen , Chen Jaw-rong , Wang Jaw-fen
Published: January 2018

Bacterial spot caused by Xanthomonas spp. is the second most important bacterial disease after bacterial wilt of tomato and pepper in Taiwan. To determine the species composition of the Xanthomonas population over 27 years (1989 to 2016) across the country, a large collections of strains from tomato (n = 292) and pepper (n = 198) were examined. In the 1989 to 1999 population, all strains (n = 147) from pepper and 95% strains (n = 198) from tomato were Xanthomonas euvesicatoria. The remaining 5% of strains from tomato were X. vesicatoria. In a 2000 to 2009 population from tomato (n = 36), 22% of the strains were X. perforans and the remaining 78% strains were X. euvesicatoria. In the 2010 to 2016 population, 92% of the strains (n = 50) from pepper were still X. euvesicatoria and the remaining 8% of the strains were X. perforans; however, 99% (n = 58) of the strains from tomato were X. perforans. All of the evaluated (n = 25) strains of X. euvesicatoria collected during 1990 to 2006 were tomato race T1. Four pepper races (P1, P2, P7, and P8) were identified in the X. euvesicatoria population. The strains of X. vesicatoria collected during 1989 to 1999 (n = 8) were tomato race T2 and strains of X. perforans from tomato collected during 2010 to 2016 (n = 12) were race T4 (83%) and race T3 (17%). Four strains of X. perforans from pepper were race T4. All of the strains of X. vesicatoria and X. perforans caused a hypersensitive response in all pepper differentials. Biochemical characterization of representative strains (n = 48) showed that strains of X. euvesicatoria were negative on and amylolytic test and positive on lipase and oxidative-fermentative (OF) tests. The strains of X. vesicatoria were positive on amylolytic and OF tests and were negative on the lipase test. All X. perforans strains showed positive reactions on three tests. Evaluation of the same 48 strains for the sensitivity to copper sulfate (50, 100, 200, 300, and 400 mg liter−1) revealed that the majority of X. euvesicatoria (86%) and X. perforans (94%) strains in the 2010 to 2016 population were tolerant to copper sulfate. The findings suggest that management strategies and breeding programs should consider the new X. perforans species and their new races. The increased number of copper-sulfate-tolerant strains in the 2010 to 2016 population further shows the need for alternative options to copper for managing bacterial spot of tomato and pepper.
Thermal Inactivation of Inoculum of Two Phytophthora Species by Intermittent Versus Constant Heat
Authors: Funahashi Fumiaki , Parke Jennifer L.
Published: January 2018

Research on solarization efficacy has examined the critical temperature and minimum exposure time to inactivate soilborne pathogens. Most mathematical models focus on survival of inoculum subjected to a constant heat regime rather than an intermittent heat regime that better simulates field conditions. To develop a more accurate predictive model, we conducted controlled lab experiments with rhododendron leaf disks infested with Phytophthora ramorum and P. pini. Focused in vitro experiments with P. ramorum showed significantly longer survival of inoculum exposed to intermittent versus constant heat, indicating that intermittent heat is less damaging. A similar trend was observed in soil. Damage was evaluated by comparing the reduction in subsequent survival time of inoculum subjected to different intensities of sublethal heat treatments. Inoculum exposure to continuous heat reflected an increasing rate of damage accumulation. Multiple sublethal heat events resulted in a constant rate of damage accumulation which allowed us to calculate total damage as the sum of damage from each heat event. A model including a correction for an intermittent heat regime significantly improved the prediction of thermal inactivation under a temperature regime that simulated field conditions.
Our finalist
Authors: Floyd Rebecca
Published: January 2018

The following manuscript is the finalist 2017 Richard Hader Visionary Leader Award entry, submitted to Nursing Management in recognition of Venetia Green, MSM, BSN, RN, CMSRN, director of inpatient nursing services at Schneck Medical Center in Seymour, Ind.
Assessing the impact of air pollution on childhood asthma morbidity: how, when, and what to do
Authors: Burbank Allison J. , Peden David B.
Published: January 2018

Purpose of review

Exposure to air pollutants is linked with poor asthma control in children and represents a potentially modifiable risk factor for impaired lung function, rescue medication use, and increased asthma-related healthcare utilization. Identification of the most relevant pollutants to asthma as well as susceptibility factors and strategies to reduce exposure are needed to improve child health.

Recent findings

The current available literature supports the association between pollutants and negative asthma outcomes. Ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and presence of certain gene polymorphisms may impact susceptibility to the negative health effects of air pollution. Improved air quality standards were associated with better asthma outcomes.

The link between air pollution and pediatric asthma morbidity is supported by the recent relevant literature. Continued efforts are needed to identify the most vulnerable populations and develop strategies to reduce exposures and improve air quality.