bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sapphirine-bearing rocks in contact with the Lherz peridotite body: New mineralogical data, age and interpretation
Authors: Uzel Jessica , Lagabrielle Yves , Fourcade Serge , Chopin Christian , Monchoux Pierre , Clerc Camille , Poujol Marc
Published: March 2020

Sapphirine-bearing rocks are described in the Aulus Basin (Ariège, France) in a contact zone between the Lherz peridotitic body and Mesozoic metasediments which underwent the Pyrenean Cretaceous high-temperature, low-pressure metamorphic event (Monchoux, 1970, 1972a, 1972b). Sapphirine crystals occur in layered clastic deposits characterized by an uncommon suite of Al-Mg-rich minerals. A detailed petrographic study of sixteen samples representative of the diversity of the Lherz sapphirine-bearing rocks is presented. These rocks include breccias and microbreccias with various compositions. Some samples are composed of polymineralic clasts and isolated minerals that derive from regionally well-known protoliths such as ultramafic rocks, meta-ophites, “micaceous hornfels”, and very scarce Paleozoic basement rocks. Nevertheless, a large portion of the sapphirine-bearing clastic suite is composed of mono- and polymineralic debris that derive from unknown protolith(s). We define a "sapphirine-bearing mineral suite” (SBMS) composed of monomineralic debris including: sapphirine + enstatite + aluminous spinel + Mg-amphiboles + Ca-amphiboles + kornerupine + accessory minerals (apatite, diopside, rutile, serpentine, smectite, tourmaline, vermiculite and a white mica). We highlight the dominance of metamorphic Keuper clastic materials in the studied rocks and the presence of inclusions of anhydrite and F-, Cl-, Sr-rich apatite in minerals of the Al-Mg-rich suite. The brecciated texture and the presence of unequivocal sedimentary features suggest that the sapphirine-bearing rocks were mechanically disaggregated and then experienced winnowing in underwater conditions with poor mixing between the different sources. We measured U-Pb rutile age data in order to provide constraints on the age of (one of) the protolith(s) of those clastic deposits. The obtained age (98.6 + 1.2 Ma) is interpreted as the age of metamorphism of this protolith of the SBMS. Previous works interpreted the Lherz sapphirine-bearing rocks as crustal protoliths modified at depth along the contact with the ultramafic rocks of the Lherz body during their ascent towards shallower depths. These new data imply: (i) an Upper Triassic to Lower Jurassic origin for the main protolith of the sapphirine-bearing rocks; (ii) the metamorphism of this protolith along an active hot crust–mantle detachment during Cenomanian times with the involvement of metasomatic, brine-type fluids; and (iii) its brecciation during the exhumation of the material due to the evolution of the detachment, followed by subsequent sedimentary reworking of the metamorphic material.
A PKC-based security architecture for WSN
Authors: Yao Jianbo , Yang Chaoqiong
Published: March 2020

It is an important challenge to find out suitable cryptography for WSN due to limitations of energy, computation capability and storage resources. Considering this sensor feature on limitations of resources, a security architecture based-on public key cryptography is proposed. The security architecture is based on identity based cryptosystem, but not requires key handshaking. The analysis shows that the security architecture ensures a good level of security and is very much suitable for the resources constrained trend of wireless sensor network.
A method for remotely upgrade C8051F041 program based on CAN bus network
Authors: Zhang Tao , Li Jianzhuang , Luo Hao , Fu Yiru , Zhao Jin , Huang Kun
Published: March 2020

The CAN bus is a serial communication network using the CAN protocol. The microcontroller of C8051F041 is a highly integrated mixed-signal system-on-a-chip with an integrated CAN bus controller. The article describes in detail how to implement remote update of all MCU Flash under the same CAN bus network. The result shows that all MCU Flash in the same bus network can be remotely updated. Only CAN bus is needed for update and no additional Connected. Program maintenance and maintenance costs can be effectively reduced in industrial control networks.
Edge computing task scheduling strategy based on load balancing
Authors: Sun Lintan , Li Zigan , Lv Jingxian , Wang Chenfei , Wang Yajuan , Chen Long , He Dong
Published: March 2020

With the rapid development and wide application of the Internet of Everything, in order to cope with the increasing amount of data and computational scale of mobile terminal processing, and the imbalance of existing scheduling algorithms and low resource utilization, this paper proposes a task scheduling algorithm based on business priority. The algorithm firstly divides the service according to the priority of the service. Secondly, the standard deviation of the computing task group is used to determine the proportion of long and short services, and the dynamic selection model is established. Finally, according to the idea of secondary allocation, the task of heavy load is assigned to the scheduling strategy of light load resources to execute, and the service redistribution model is established. The simulation results show that compared with the typical algorithm, the proposed algorithm achieves the result of comprehensive consideration of Makespan and load balancing to improve system efficiency.
Natural image segmentation based on mutual information
Authors: Zhu Yiwei
Published: March 2020

Natural image segmentation plays an important role in the fields of image processing and computer vision. Image segmentation based on clustering is an important method in unsupervised image segmentation algorithms. But there are two problems with this type of approach. First, feature extraction is generally pixel-based, which results in poor segmentation results and boundary fitting. In order to solve this problem, it is proposed to introduce super pixel to be segmented image preprocessing. Second, the number of partitions is difficult to determine. Aiming at this problem, an energy difference based on mutual information is proposed, which can automatically determine the number of partitions. The experimental results on the standard database show that the proposed algorithm overcomes the above problems and achieves better experimental results.
Research and implementation of license plate recognition based on android platform
Authors: Sun Yueyue , Zhao Xuechen
Published: March 2020

This paper studies and optimizes license plate location and recognition in license plate recognition. A license plate recognition system based on Android platform is designed and implemented. Opencv and Tesseract OCR are integrated in Android studio environment. The license plate number is located by combining Laplace algorithm and HSV model. On the basis of fully understanding the principle of Tesseract OCR recognition, a large number of training pictures are generated by license plate number simulation generator, and license plate character library is generated by using jtessboxeditor tool, which realizes offline recognition of license plate number.
Research on high speed data distribution technology based on kernel state of domestic operating system
Authors: Geng Shumin , Wang Wei , Yang Xinlei , Du Peng , Qiao Hui
Published: March 2020

The data distribution platform is the ground information center of the relay satellite system to realize the data relay ability. With the increasing demand of the user data transmission, the data transmission ability of the relay satellite system is increasing. The increasing data transmission ability of the satellite puts forward higher requirements for the data distribution ability of the ground distribution platform. In this paper, the technology of data acquisition and data exchange based on the kernel state of the domestic operating system is studied. The design method of data distribution platform based on the kernel state programming of the domestic operating system is proposed. The simulation test environment is built to verify the effectiveness of the method, which can greatly improve the data processing ability of a single data distribution device, significantly reduce the scale of data distribution device, it provides strong technical support for building a new model of intensive and efficient data distribution.
Cycle-related Diarrhea and Dysmenorrhea are Independent Predictors of Peritoneal Endometriosis, Cycle-related Dyschezia is an Independent Predictor of Rectal Involvement
Authors: Nicolaus Kristin , Reckenbeil Laura , Bräuer Dominik , Sczesny Robert , Diebolder Herbert , Runnebaum Ingo B.
Published: March 2020

Introduction The clinical presentation of endometriosis is extremely varied. Because endometriosis symptoms may overlap with symptoms caused by gastroenterological disorders, this can lead to misdiagnosis and a considerable delay in arriving at the correct diagnosis. The aim was to evaluate the type and duration of endometriosis-related symptoms and to identify predictors for patterns of involvement depending on symptoms.

Material and Method The data of 266 consecutive patients who were operated on in the Endometriosis Center between 1/2016 and 12/2017 after receiving a histologically verified diagnosis of endometriosis were recorded. In addition to recording the clinical parameters, a questionnaire was distributed to the patients, who were asked about their medical history. Infertile patients were grouped together as Group 1 and compared to non-infertile patients (Group 2).

Results The response rate for returned questionnaires was 79.47% (182/229). 41.8% of patients reported that they were infertile and 91.8% reported pelvic pain. In more than ⅓ of cases in both groups, more than 10 years passed between the initial symptoms and the final diagnosis (39.4 vs. 37.5%). On average, patients consulted 2.72 (± 1.58) resp. 3.08 (± 1.72) doctors before they presented to a hospital or were referred for laparoscopic diagnostic workup (p = 0.162). Cycle-related diarrhea (odds ratio 2.707; 95% CI: 1.063 – 6.895, p = 0.037) and dysmenorrhea (odds ratio 2.278; 95% CI: 1.193 – 4.348, p = 0.013) were associated with involvement of the pelvic peritoneum, cycle-related dyschezia was associated with rectal involvement by a factor of 4.6 in binary regression analysis (odds ratio 4.659; 95% CI: 1.132 – 19.186; p = 0.033).

Conclusion Cycle-related diarrhea and dysmenorrhea increase the risk probability of peritoneal endometriosis. Dyschezia increases the risk probability of rectal endometriosis.
Effects of Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy in Real-World Arm Use in Young Children with Unilateral Cerebral Palsy: A Single-Blind Randomized Trial
Authors: Hwang Young Sub , Kwon Jeong-Yi
Published: March 2020

Objective To determine whether modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) with continuous restraint is feasible and effective in improving the use of the paretic arm in the real world among infants and toddlers with unilateral cerebral palsy (CP).

Design Single-blind randomized controlled trial.

Setting Tertiary hospital.

Participants Children aged 7 to 36 months with unilateral CP (N = 24; 16 boys, 8 girls).

Intervention The experimental group received 2-hour clinic-based mCIMT sessions (5 days per week for 3 weeks), and a continuous restraint was applied.

Main Outcome Measures Standardized assessments were conducted. Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2 (PDMS-2), Gross Motor Function Measure-66, Pediatric Motor Activity Log (PMAL), and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory were measured pre- and postintervention. Children who agreed to participate in the accelerometer study additionally wore accelerometers on both their wrists for 3 days before and after the intervention.

Results The mCIMT group exhibited greater improvement in PMAL-how often (p = 0.048; ηp2 = 0.173), PMAL-how well (p = 0.008; ηp2 = 0.289), and PDMS-2 visual motor integration (p = 0.014; ηp2 = 0.256) posttreatment than the control group. The percentage of time in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (z = –2.24; p = 0.03) and vector magnitude average counts (z = –2.52; p = 0.01) significantly increased in children in who wore accelerometers (N = 8) after the 3-week mCIMT protocol.

Conclusion mCIMT with continuous restraint applied to infants and toddlers with unilateral CP appeared to have a positive effect on paretic hand use in the real world.

Clinical Trial Registration Number NCT03418519
Uncommon Pathogens Causing Hospital-Acquired Infections in Postoperative Cardiac Surgical Patients
Authors: Sahu Manoj Kumar , George Netto , Rastogi Neha , Bipin Chalatti , Singh Sarvesh Pal
Published: March 2020

Bacterial infections are common causes of sepsis in the intensive care units. However, usually a finite number of Gram-negative bacteria cause sepsis (mostly according to the hospital flora). Some organisms such as Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus are relatively common. Others such as Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Chryseobacterium indologenes, Shewanella putrefaciens, Ralstonia pickettii, Providencia, Morganella species, Nocardia, Elizabethkingia, Proteus, and Burkholderia are rare but of immense importance to public health, in view of the high mortality rates these are associated with. Being aware of these organisms, as the cause of hospital-acquired infections, helps in the prevention, treatment, and control of sepsis in the high-risk cardiac surgical patients including in heart transplants. Therefore, a basic understanding of when to suspect these organisms is important for clinical diagnosis and initiating therapeutic options. This review discusses some rarely appearing pathogens in our intensive care unit with respect to the spectrum of infections, and various antibiotics that were effective in managing these bacteria.
Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter and Retinal Artery Resistive Index Measurements with Bedside Ophthalmic Ultrasound in Pediatric Patients with Pseudotumor Cerebri Syndrome
Authors: Aslan Nagehan , Yildizdas Dincer , Ozcan Neslihan , Horoz Ozden Ozgur , Mert Gulen Gul , Sertdemir Yasar , Altunbasak Sakir
Published: March 2020

Pseudotumor cerebri syndrome (PTCS) is characterized by raised intracranial pressure (ICP) with no neuroradiological abnormalities. Ocular ultrasound has been in use to measure optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD), and retinal artery Doppler indices have been used for indirect assessment of ICP by pediatric intensivists. Here, we aimed to evaluate the correlation of the lumbar puncture (LP) opening pressure with the ultrasonographic ONSD and retinal resistive index (RRI) measures in patients with PTCS. And we wanted to find an answer to the following question: Can ultrasonographic ONSD measures serve as a follow-up tool in patients with PTCS? A prospective, single-center, case–control study was performed by pediatric intensive care and pediatric neurology departments. A total of 7 patients with PTCS were evaluated as patient group and 15 healthy children were evaluated as control group. The mean age of patient group was 138.8 ± 43.7 months. The mean right ONSD was 6.7 ± 0.5 mm and the mean left ONSD was 6.7 ± 0.6 mm. The mean right RRI value was 0.73 ± 0.03 and the mean left RRI was 0.73 ± 0.09. For the patient group, ONSD and RRI values of both eyes were statistically significant higher values than for the control group. The mean LP opening pressure was 56.57 ± 16.36 cmH2O. We detected strong, positive, and statistically significant correlations between the LP opening pressure and ONSD baseline measures for both the right eye (r = 0.882, p = 0.009) and the left eye (r = 0.649, p = 0.004). There was no correlation between opening pressure in LP and RRI measurements. We detected a statistically significant decrease in the right ONSD and left ONSD values and visual analog scale scores at the third-month follow-up. Our study results demonstrate that ultrasonographic ONSD measurements can be used as a noninvasive tool for assessment of the ICP at first admission and can be used as a follow-up tool in PTSC patients.
Sustainable Development Under Competing Claims on Land: Three Pathways Between Land-Use Changes, Ecosystem Services and Human Well-Being
Authors: Schneider Flurina , Feurer Mélanie , Lundsgaard-Hansen Lara Maria , Win Myint  , Cing Don Nuam  , Nydegger Katharina , Oberlack Christoph , Nwe Nwe Tun  , Zähringer Julie Gwendolin , Aung Myin Tun  , Messerli Peter
Published: March 2020

Competition over land is at the core of many sustainable development challenges in Myanmar: villagers, companies, governments, ethnic minority groups, civil society organisations and non-governmental organisations from local to the international level claim access to and decision-making power over the use of land. Therefore, this article investigates the actor interactions influencing land-use changes and their impacts on the supply of ecosystem services and human well-being. We utilise a transdisciplinary mixed-methods approach and the analytical lens of the social-ecological systems framework. Results reveal that the links between land-use changes, ecosystem services and human well-being are multifaceted; For example ecosystem services can decline, while human well-being increases. We explain this finding through three different pathways to impact (changes in the resource systems, the governance systems or the broader social, economic and political context). We conclude with implications of these results for future sustainable land governance.
Step-scan Michelson Fourier-transform spectrometer for optical emission spectroscopy in UV–VIS spectral range
Authors: Ďurian Michal , Sámel Matúš , Matejčík Štefan
Published: March 2020

We present the design, construction, and first spectra of a step-scan Michelson Fourier-transform spectrometer for optical emission spectroscopy in the UV–VIS spectral range. The mirror motion mechanism is based on a long-travel piezo-based linear translation stage with built-in position feedback. The step-scan arrangement allows for signal integration, making the instrument suitable for measurements of less intensive radiation sources and for the photon-counting technique. The spectrometer consists of two coupled Michelson interferometers, one for the spectrometer itself and the other to provide positional reference for the mirror stepping mechanism using interference fringes of a stabilized 635 nm laser diode. Using interpolation of the laser interferogram and taking advantage of the translation stage precision in linear-piezo mode, the mechanism is capable of performing 79 nm steps, which puts the Nyquist wavelength at ∼320 nm. The spectrometer was tested by measuring the spectra of HgAr cold-cathode fluorescent lamp and electron-induced fluorescence of ambient air. Two different detectors were used, an amplified photodiode detector and a photomultiplier tube module in photon counting mode. The highest achieved experimental spectral resolving power was ∼4000 using 1 mm of total mirror travel and the highest achieved noise-free dynamic range was 103. Test results show that the instrument is suitable for use with moderate-to-low intensity signal sources such as small gas discharges and spectroscopic measurements at astronomical telescopes.
Magnetocaloric Gadolinium thick films for energy harvesting applications
Authors: Ba Doan Nguyen , Becerra Loïc , Casaretto Nicolas , Duvauchelle Jean-Eudes , Marangolo Massimiliano , Ahmim Smail , Almanza Morgan , LoBue Martino
Published: March 2020

Magnetization, Curie temperature and isothermal entropy change have been measured in Gadolinium 3 μm thick films. We present the comparison between the structural and magnetic properties of samples deposited either at room temperature or at 550°C onto silicon substrate (100) with a thermally oxidized layer. The results are discussed using as a reference, data from bulk Gd single crystals. As compared to bulk values, the room temperature grown film shows lower Curie temperature ( ∼ 280 K) and weaker entropy change ( ∼ 6.8 Jkg−1K−1) under application of magnetic field ramp from 0 to 5 Tesla. On the contrary the 550○C deposited film shows a Curie temperature ( ∼ 293 K) and a maximum isothermal entropy change ( ∼ 8.9 Jkg−1K−1) both in good agreement with values expected for bulk samples. The behavior of the room temperature deposited samples are briefly discussed and compared with similar effects observed in bulk samples with different degree of purity and homogeneity.
Studies of magnetic and thermodynamic characteristics iron core under high frequencies for traction motors
Authors: Pei R. , Xu J. , Gao L. , Zheng H. , Zhou X. , Yuan Y. , Zeng L.
Published: March 2020

The Electrical Vehicle industry has developed rapidly in recent years, and the demand for new energy-driven motor systems has also increased. Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machine (PMSM) are high performance drive motors. In this paper, a new type of GO silicon steel material assembled stator core is proposed, compared with conventional Non Grain-Oriented (NGO) silicon steel stator, and the magnetic properties of the motor are analyzed. The method of assembling the stator core is given, in which the GO silicon steel sheets are stacked as the teeth of the stator core. GO silicon steel has low iron loss and large saturation magnetic density, which is more conducive to improving motor efficiency. The teeth of the stator core tend to have higher magnetic density and are more prone to sustain a higher iron loss. This research ensures the reliability of the test results through simulation analysis and physical test verification.
Molecular dynamics simulations of amyloid-β(16–22) peptide aggregation at air–water interfaces
Authors: Okumura Hisashi , Itoh Satoru G.
Published: March 2020

Oligomers of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides are known to be related to Alzheimer’s disease, and their formation is accelerated at hydrophilic–hydrophobic interfaces, such as the cell membrane surface and air–water interface. Here, we report molecular dynamics simulations of aggregation of Aβ(16–22) peptides at air–water interfaces. First, 100 randomly distributed Aβ(16–22) peptides moved to the interface. The high concentration of peptides then accelerated their aggregation and formation of antiparallel β-sheets. Two layers of oligomers were observed near the interface. In the first layer from the interface, the oligomer with less β-bridges exposed the hydrophobic residues to the air. The second layer consisted of oligomers with more β-bridges that protruded into water. They are more soluble in water because the hydrophobic residues are covered by N- and C-terminal hydrophilic residues that are aligned well along the oligomer edge. These results indicate that amyloid protofibril formation mainly occurs in the second layer.
Optical spectroscopy of muon/hydrogen defects in 6H-SiC
Authors: Lord J. S. , Yokoyama K. , Mengyan P. W. , Goeks M. R. , Lichti R. L. , Vilao R. C. , Alberto H. V.
Published: March 2020

Positive muons can be implanted into silicon carbide (SiC), where they model the isolated hydrogen defect in the negative, neutral, or positive charge states and act as either an acceptor or a donor with midgap energy levels [Lichti et al., Phys. Rev. B 70, 165204 (2004); Lichti et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 136403 (2008)]. The charge states evolve after implantation depending on the temperature and material doping. We have measured optically induced effects on muons implanted in 6H-SiC using a pulsed, tunable laser [Yokoyama et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 87, 125111 (2016)]. In n-type 6H-SiC at 85 K and 40 K, with a laser pulse of energy below the bandgap, we observe photoionization of the doubly occupied level (Mu−) to the neutral defect Mu0 and also ionization of Mu0 to Mu+. Varying the timing of the laser pulse relative to muon arrival confirms that the laser interacts directly with the muons in a stable or metastable state. There is no evidence of any interaction when the laser pulse is timed to arrive before the muons, so either few free carriers are generated by absorption at other dopant sites or the excess carriers have a very short lifetime (≪100ns). Wavelength scans show absorption edges corresponding to the possible interstitial sites within the structure. Combining these data and the existing muon results shows that at low temperature, we have co-existence of Mu0 and Mu− charge states, with the muon or hydrogen acting as a deep compensating impurity. The technique can be applied to many other semiconductors where the muon has been observed to be electrically active, modeling hydrogen.
Stokes’s flow of a bumpy shaft inside a cylinder and a model for predicting the roughness of the shaft
Authors: Song Meng-Tian , Lei Jie-Chao , Chang Chien C. , Wang Chang-Yi
Published: March 2020

A microshaft may become rough due to corrosion, abrasion, and deposition when it has been operating in a viscous fluid. It is of importance to investigate the effects and to estimate the level of the shaft’s surface roughness. In this study, we consider a bumpy shaft with its shape modeled by the product of two cosinoidal functions; the roughness ε is defined to be the ratio of the amplitude of the product to the mean radius b of the shaft. First, we consider the Couette flow of the shaft in a viscous fluid enclosed by a rotating smooth cylinder. A perturbation analysis is carried out for the Stokes equation with respect to ε up to the second-order with the key parameters including the azimuthal wave number n and the axial wave number α of the roughness, as well as the mean radius b. In addition, a perturbation analysis is performed for the Poiseuille flow in the gap between the shaft and the shrouded cylinder so that we have complete information for estimating the mean roughness of the shaft. Moreover, numerical simulations are carried out for the torque acting on the shaft at selected b, ε, and wave numbers n, α for verifying the accuracy of the perturbation results. It is shown that the mean torque M acting on the unit area of the bumpy shaft and the total flow rate Q of the Poiseuille flow are both modified by a second-order term of roughness in ε, namely, M = M0 + ε2η and Q = Q0 − ε22πχ, where M0 and Q0 denote the torque and the flow rate, respectively, for the smooth shaft. The net effects are conveniently written as η = η1 + η2 and χ = χ1 + χ2, both comprising two components: η1 = η1 (b) < 0 (pure deficit) increases with increasing b and χ1 = χ1 (b) first increases and then decreases again with increasing b, while η2 and χ2 are complex functions of b, n, and α. For a given density of roughness Ac = nα, there exists an intermediate n at which the mean torque M is minimized, while the total flow rate Q is maximized. The main results are thoroughly derived with all the steps of derivation explained physically, and their relationships to the various geometrical parameters are used to establish a simplified model for predicting the shaft roughness within the range of reasonable accuracy.
Realizing both short- and long-term memory within a single magnetic tunnel junction based synapse
Authors: Prasad Nitin , Pramanik Tanmoy , Banerjee Sanjay K. , Register Leonard F.
Published: March 2020

Synaptic plasticity forms the basis of memory retention in the human brain. Whereas a low “rehearsal” rate causes short-term changes in the synaptic connections such that the synapse soon “forgets,” a high rehearsal rate ensures long-term retention of memory in the brain. In this paper, we propose an artificial short- and long-term memory magnetic tunnel junction (SALT-MTJ) synapse. Changes in the synaptic strength are mapped to the SALT-MTJ conductance, which is varied stochastically via spin-transfer torque resulting from input current stimuli. A meta-stable intermediate magnetic state of the SALT-MTJ synapse provides short-term synaptic plasticity and the associated forgetting behavior as in a biological synapse. Repeated spin-current stimulations, while the SALT-MTJ remains in the short-term state, then can cause a near-permanent change in the magnetic state and associated conductance to provide long-term potentiation. The synaptic weight sensitivity to the input stimulus and the forgetting behavior of these short- and long-term states can be controlled via shape engineering of the artificial synapse.
Characterisation of genes involved in galactolipids and sulfolipids metabolism in maize and Arabidopsis and their differential responses to phosphate deficiency
Authors: Wang Feng , Ding Dong , Li Jiaxin , He Lin , Xu Xiaoxuan , Zhao Ying , Yan Bowei , Li Zuotong , Xu Jingyu
Published: March 2020

Galactolipids (MGDG and DGDG) and sulfolipids (SQDG) are key components of plastidic membranes, and play important roles in plant development and photosynthesis. In this study, the whole families of MGD, DGD and SQD were identified in maize genome, and were designated as ZmMGD1-3, ZmDGD1-5 and ZmSQD1-5 respectively. Based on the phylogenetic analyses, maize and Arabidopsis MGDs, DGDs and SQDs were clearly divided into two major categories (Type A and Type B) along with their orthologous genes from other plant species. Under low-phosphorus condition, the expression of Type B MGD, DGD and SQD genes of maize and Arabidopsis were significantly elevated in both leaf and root tissues. The lipid analysis was also conducted, and an overall increase in non-phosphorus lipids (MGDG, DGDG and SQDG), and a decrease in phosphorus lipids (PC, PE and PA) were observed in maize leaves and roots under phosphate deficiency. Several maize MGD and SQD genes were found involved in various abiotic stress responses. These findings will help for better understanding the specific functions of MGDs, DGDs and SQDs in 18:3 plants and for the generation of improved crops adapted to phosphate starvation and other abiotic stresses.
Chloride and amino acids are associated with K+-alleviated drought stress in tea (Camellia sinesis)
Authors: Zhang Xianchen , Wu Honghong , Chen Jingguang , Chen Linmu , Wan Xiaochun
Published: March 2020

Drought is one of the main limiting factors affecting tea plant yield and quality. Previous studies have reported that K+ (potassium) application significantly alleviated drought-induced damage in tea plants. However, the intrinsic mechanisms underlying K+-alleviated drought stress are still obscure. In our study, two contrasting varieties, Taicha12 (drought tolerant) and Fuyun6 (drought sensitive), were used to investigate the intrinsic mechanisms behind K+-alleviated drought stress in tea plants. In the present study, we compared with the case of tea plants under drought: higher water and chlorophyll contents were found in drought-stressed tea plants with an external K+ supply, confirming the role of externally supplied K+ in mitigating drought stress. We also found that an adequate K+ supply promoted Cl– accumulation in the mesophyll of Taicha12 (drought tolerant) over that of in Fuyun6 (drought sensitive). Moreover, Gly, Cys, Lys and Arg were not detected in Fuyun6 under ‘Drought’ or ‘Drought + K+’ conditions. Results showed that an exogenous supply of Arg and Val significantly alleviated drought-induced damage in Fuyun6, suggesting their role in K+-alleviated drought stress in tea plants. Collectively, our results show that chloride and amino acids are important components associated with K+-alleviated drought stress in tea plants.
Demystifying the process
Authors: Sağdıç Ayşenur , Isbell Daniel R.
Published: March 2020

Receiving a doctoral degree is a crucial step for those aiming
to research language-related real-world issues and to make scholarly
contributions to the interdisciplinary field of applied linguistics.
Applying to doctoral programs in applied linguistics requires a considerable
amount of time and effort, and there are limited resources on how to
successfully navigate this high-stakes process. This chapter aims to
demystify the process by drawing on the personal experiences of applied
linguistics faculty and doctoral students in North America. It also reports on the findings
of a study that surveyed 60 current doctoral students’ experiences and 12
faculty members’ recommendations related to choosing, applying to, and
getting accepted to doctoral programs in applied linguistics. The chapter
offers practical, data-based suggestions for prospective doctoral students
plotting their next steps as applied linguists.
Handling interpersonal and departmental dynamics
Authors: Smith Bryan
Published: March 2020

This chapter offers a view on successfully navigating
interpersonal and departmental dynamics in your pre-tenure years (and
beyond). It frames the discussion in terms of service, teaching, and
scholarship as well as other key aspects of departmental life. The chapter
provides a candid and practical assessment of the requirements and
expectations in these three major areas of junior faculty performance
evaluation and offers insights not typically found in departmental manuals.
Making good choices with your time and how these choices will impact your
progress toward tenure is a common theme running throughout the chapter.
Specific illustrative examples of many of the hazards junior faculty may
face are provided and concrete suggestions for avoiding these situations are
offered.
Supervising doctoral students and managing the supervisor-supervisee
relationship
Authors: Dewaele Jean-Marc
Published: March 2020

Highlights: Trust and mutual respect;
encouraging scientific creativity; PhD as transformative process; physical,
social and emotional balance; pride and humility, the right attitude at
conferences and in papers; handling expectations; getting over “Kleenex”
moments; dealing with critical comments; approaching a potential supervisor,
maintaining a good relationship; the role of third parties; the post-PhD
relationship.
Lowering of elastic modulus in the near-beta Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy through heat treatment
Authors: Kumar Pramod , Mahobia G. S. , Singh V. , Chattopadhyay Kausik
Published: March 2020

The bio-implant devices require adequate strength and low elastic modulus, for compatibility with human bone. In this study, the near-beta Ti–13Nb–13Zr alloy was subjected to two different solutionising temperatures and quenched at different temperatures. Microstructure modifications and its influence on microhardness, elastic modulus and tensile properties were investigated. Elastic modulus was decreased with increase in cooling rate from solutioning temperature. The samples solutionised at 900°C and quenched at sub-zero temperature contained α″ martensite along with α′ and β phases and these lowered the elastic modulus. Among all the heat-treated samples, the one solutionised at 900°C and quenched at sub-zero exhibited lowest elastic modulus of 59 GPa and adequate tensile properties for the application as bioimplants.
Anomalous Hall magnetoresistance in single-crystal Fe(001) films
Authors: Jia M W , Li J X , Chen H R , Zeng F L , Xiao X , Wu Y Z
Published: March 2020

The angular-dependent magnetoresistance (MR) in epitaxial Fe(001) films grown on MgO(001) is systematically investigated at room temperature. The resistivities with in-plane magnetic fields parallel (ρ

x
) and transverse (ρ

y
) to a current and a perpendicular field (ρ

z
) show a correlation of ρ

z
≈ ρ

x
> ρ

y
for Fe film thickness (d
Fe) between 3 and 50 nm, which is distinctly different from the conventional anisotropic MR relation of ρ

x
> ρ

y
≈ ρ

z
. The dependence of such unusual MR on d
Fe is quantitatively explained by the competition between the anomalous Hall MR, intrinsic anisotropic MR, and the MR induced by the geometrical size effect in Fe films. Our results also reveal the strong four-fold symmetric terms in the measured angular-dependent MR with a linear dependence of 1/d
Fe.
Replicating landmine blast loading in cellular in vitro models
Authors: Sory David R , Amin Harsh D , Chapman David J , Proud William G , Rankin Sara M
Published: March 2020

Trauma arising from landmines and improvised explosive devices promotes heterotopic ossification, the formation of extra-skeletal bone in non-osseous tissue. To date, experimental platforms that can replicate the loading parameter space relevant to improvised explosive device and landmine blast wave exposure have not been available to study the effects of such non-physiological mechanical loading on cells. Here, we present the design and calibration of three distinct in vitro experimental loading platforms that allow us to replicate the spectrum of loading conditions recorded in near-field blast wave exposure. We subjected cells in suspension or in a three-dimensional hydrogel to strain rates up to 6000 s−1 and pressure levels up to 45 MPa. Our results highlight that cellular activation is regulated in a non-linear fashion—not by a single mechanical parameter, it is the combined action of the applied mechanical pressure, rate of loading and loading impulse, along with the extracellular environment used to convey the pressure waves. Finally, our research indicates that PO MSCs are finely tuned to respond to mechanical stimuli that fall within defined ranges of loading.
Advances in metrology for energy-containing gases and emerging demands
Authors: van der Veen Adriaan M H , Nieuwenkamp Gerard , Zalewska Ewelina T , Li Jianrong , de Krom Iris , Persijn Stefan , Meuzelaar Heleen
Published: March 2020

Metrological services from National Metrology Institutes related to energy gases have been supported by the programme of key comparisons of the Gas Analysis Working Group of the Consultative Committee for Amount of Substance: Metrology in Chemistry and Biology since its conception in 1993. Most of the key comparisons have been performed on natural gas composition measurement, which is key to the calculation of natural gas properties, thereby facilitating fiscal metering and the trade in natural gas. In the recent years, non-conventional energy gases and natural gas substitutes, such as refinery gas and biogas have been addressed. The paper gives an overview over the achievements in this area from the first key comparison (CCQM-K1) onward and outlines the current challenges to the metrological community. The ongoing energy transition towards renewable energy gases is at the centre of these challenges. The associated emerging challenges primarily concern the measurement of the concentrations of impurities, such as silicon in biomethane and upgraded biogas, carbon monoxide in hydrogen, and many others. The paper presents the first results of the development of measurement standards and methods for impurities in biogas, biomethane and hydrogen and the implications for the programme of key comparisons.
Ammonia Production from a Non-Grid Connected Floating Offshore Windfarm
Authors: Parmar Vismay , Manwell James , McGowan Jon
Published: March 2020

This paper investigates the technical and economic feasibility of a floating offshore wind driven ammonia production system. The ammonia plant is located on a floating plantship with no connection to the grid. An analytical model (MATLAB based) for this system was based on an all-electric Ammonia plant and the use of 4.5 MW wind turbines. The model results showed that ammonia was produced at a much lower capacity and at a cost about $350/ton higher than a land-based grid connected system. Future work recommended includes the use of larger sized wind turbines and cost reductions in the ammonia plant and efficiency increases in the auxiliary ammonia powered gas turbine system.
An Evaluation of Advanced Tools for Distributed Wind Turbine Performance Estimation
Authors: Poudel R.C. , Tinnesand H. , Baring-Gould I.E.
Published: March 2020

We evaluate various classes of distributed wind turbine performance tools across two sites in the United States. The class of tools ranges from the simple mass conservation model to the coupled Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes model, all initiated by the WIND Toolkit data set. The resource estimation at the site is evaluated against measured data at the mast location. Taking a sample 100-kW wind turbine and constant losses, we evaluate Openwind, Continuum, and WindNinja tools and document annual energy production (AEP) and time-series statistics associated with the performance estimation of the wind turbine. Using a methodology that is consistent and unbiased across the three options currently available in the industry, we elaborate results at the two sample locations and discuss the probable sources of discrepancy in the AEP estimates. Two main sources of the discrepancy come from the input WIND Toolkit data and the spatial modeling techniques of the tools to capture atmospheric physics. The discussion includes additional values that these tools may bring into the energy assessment process to enhance the owners’ confidence over the distributed wind power systems.
Can we predict short term extreme conditions from 10-minute data only?
Authors: Hannesdóttir Ásta , Larsen Gunner Chr. , Svensson Elin
Published: March 2020

In this study we compare 50-year return values of extreme estimates from a model to values estimated from data analysis. The outputs present a suite of extreme wind load conditions relevant for wind turbine design. The input parameters for the model consist of only statistical wind data, rather than high-frequency measurements that are less available. The model generally predicts lower extreme values than prescribed in the IEC wind turbine safety standard and is therefore of great interest to wind turbine manufacturers. This is the first time a systematic validation of the full suite of extreme models is performed in the whole wind speed range. The accuracy of the model predictions is estimated using a comprehensive data set from a complex terrain site. It is found that the mean absolute percentage error between the data analysis and the model outputs lies within the range of 8.1% - 65.8%.
Superelement reduction of substructures for sequential load calculations in OpenFAST
Authors: Branlard E. , Shields M. , Anderson B. , Damiani R. , Wendt F. , Jonkman J. , Musial W. , Foley B.
Published: March 2020

This article presents the superelement formulation newly implemented in OpenFAST to simulate fixed-bottom substructures with a reduced-order model similar to a common industry practice. The Guyan and Craig-Bampton methods are used to reduce the number of degrees of freedom and generate a so-called “superelement”. The formulation allows manufacturers to exchange such superelements to perform load calculations without revealing sensitive information about the support structure (e.g., foundation, substructure, and/or tower) or turbine. The source code is made publicly available in the OpenFAST repository. Test cases with varying degrees of complexity are presented to validate the technique, and accuracy issues are discussed.
Probabilistic analysis of offshore geotechnical site investigation in a homogeneous stiff clay deposit
Authors: Luo N , Arwade S R , DeGroot D J
Published: March 2020

Unlike most onshore geotechnical projects, conducting offshore site investigations is often difficult and technically challenging due to the harsh ocean environment. Hence, an important cost consideration is minimizing the number of soundings for an offshore project while ensuring reliable and safe designs. This study examines the possibility of reducing the number of soundings at site by using practical numerical tools to predict cone tip resistance (qt
) at unsampled locations. Prediction errors were quantified within a probabilistic framework. Two prediction approaches, i.e. 2D linear regression and Kriging, were adopted. Site investigation data from an existing offshore wind farm with homogeneous stiff clay deposit were collected and analyzed. Result shows that in a homogeneous soil deposit, it is possible to use as little as 20% of the available data to predict the remaining 80% qt
profiles with small error. Monopile deformation under typical design load was also calculated using shear strength derived from the qt
profile at each wind turbine location. The small spatial variation of monopile deformation suggests that a reduction in the number of geotechnical soundings for sites with uniform soil conditions would not significantly impact the foundation design.
Offshore Renewable Energy Planning in French Law: towards an integrated process?
Authors: Boillet N
Published: March 2020

The production potential of offshore renewable energy meets the objectives of energy and climate policy at international and European level. Under French law, the necessary planning for the development of the offshore renewable energies is carried out within the framework of energy law. This situation, which was not entirely satisfactory in terms of participation and respect for the marine environment, has led to legal developments. In particular, the planning method chosen should be improved through the implementation of MSP. The purpose of this article is to present the planning of offshore renewable energies under French law and to analyze its relevance.
Economic Sensitivities and Options Surrounding Wind Farm Life Extension
Authors: Carriveau R , Miller L
Published: March 2020

Some North American wind owners and operators are approaching and surpassing the halfway points of their power purchase agreements (PPAs). The initial 20-year contracts were intended to align with the operational life of the assets, however it is expected that some assets will continue to be operational if proactively maintained. An LCOEEXT was previously proposed to evaluate the economic feasibility of lifetime extension. This metric is sensitive to many variables and a robust analysis of these sensitivities will provide improved guidance when considering lifetime extension. Lifetime extension is an attractive option, offering higher rates of return for projects when economic analysis supports this pursuit. Options for operating beyond the first PPA are also detailed and discussed.
Remaining Useful Life Determination for Wind Turbines
Authors: Pagitsch Michael , Jacobs Georg , Bosse Dennis
Published: March 2020

Since wind turbines have become one of the prevailing sources of electrical energy, their reliability and availability are of enormous importance. Predictive maintenance is a strategy for keeping both factors high and thus heavily under research. Maintenance based on the actual condition of a turbine would be the ideal way in the field of tension between benefit and effort. However, determining the condition of machine parts and elements traditionally requires the expensive application of measurement techniques and inspections. In many cases load-based maintenance – powered by few simple sensors and a model-based derivation of the condition from the history of loads – would be a good compromise. This paper presents a novel method for modeling wind turbines with minimal data requirements for the purpose of calculating inner loads and deriving the condition of machine elements. The applicability is demonstrated in the form of a remaining useful lifetime estimation of gearbox bearings.
Initial results from the field testing of the “rotor as a sensor” concept
Authors: Bertelè M. , Bottasso C.L.
Published: March 2020

This work reports preliminary findings on the field validation of the “rotor as a sensor” concept. In a nutshell, the idea is to use the rotor response in order to measure the wind inflow, effectively turning the whole rotor into a sort of generalized anemometer capable of estimating wind speed, shears and directions. In turn, these quantities can be used for optimizing turbine and farm-level performance. Here a purely data-driven method is used, where a wind observer is first identified using flow field measurements (obtained by a met-mast) together with the corresponding blade root load harmonics. Once the observer has been identified, the wind inflow is estimated online during turbine operation by feeding it with measured blade root harmonics. Preliminary results reported herein seem to be very encouraging.