bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cell-Penetrating CaCO3 Nanocrystals for Improved Transport of NVP-BEZ235 across Membrane Barrier in T-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Vergaro Viviana , Civallero Monica , Citti Cinzia , Cosenza Maria , Baldassarre Francesca , Cannazza Giuseppe , Pozzi Samantha , Sacchi Stefano , Fanizzi Francesco , Ciccarella Giuseppe
Published: January 2018

Owing to their nano-sized porous structure, CaCO3 nanocrystals (CaCO3NCs) hold the promise to be utilized as desired materials for encapsulating molecules which demonstrate wide promise in drug delivery. We evaluate the possibility to encapsulate and release NVP-BEZ235, a novel and potent dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor that is currently in phase I/II clinical trials for advanced solid tumors, from the CaCO3NCs. Its chemical nature shows some intrinsic limitations which induce to administer high doses leading to toxicity; to overcome these problems, here we proposed a strategy to enhance its intracellular penetration and its biological activity. Pristine CaCO3 NCs biocompatibility, cell interactions and internalization in in vitro experiments on T-cell lymphoma line, were studied. Confocal microscopy was used to monitor NCs-cell interactions and cellular uptake. We have further investigated the interaction nature and release mechanism of drug loaded/released within/from the NCs using an alternative approach based on liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Our approach provides a good loading efficiency, therefore this drug delivery system was validated for biological activity in T-cell lymphoma: the anti-proliferative test and western blot results are very interesting because the proposed nano-formulation has an efficiency higher than free drug at the same nominal concentration.
Conductive Supramolecular Architecture Constructed from Polyoxovanadate Cluster and Heterocyclic Surfactant
Authors: Misawa Toshiyuki , Taira Minako , Fujio Katsuhiko , Ito Takeru
Published: January 2018

Proton-conductive solid electrolytes are significant for fuel-cell battery technology. Especially for use in motor vehicles, proton conductors which work at intermediate temperatures (373–673 K) under an anhydrous atmosphere are desired to improve the fuel cell stability and efficiency. Inorganic–organic hybrid supramolecular architectures are a promising option for the realization of highly conductive proton conductors. Here, a hybrid layered crystal was synthesized for the first time by using an proton-containing decavanadate (V10) anion and a heterocyclic surfactant cation. A simple ion-exchange reaction led to the formation of an inorganic–organic hybrid of V10 by using dodecylpyridazinium (C12pda) as the heterocyclic surfactant. Single crystal X-ray analyses revealed that four C12pda cations were associated with one V10 anion, which was a diprotonated species forming a one-dimensional infinite chain structure through hydrogen bonds. Anhydrous proton conductivity was investigated by alternating current (AC) impedance spectroscopy in the range of 313–393 K, exhibiting a maximum value of 1.7 × 10−5 S cm−1 at 373 K.
On the Holographic Bound in Newtonian Cosmology
Authors: Isidro José , Fernández de Córdoba Pedro
Published: January 2018

The holographic principle sets an upper bound on the total (Boltzmann) entropy content of the Universe at around 10 123 k B ( k B being Boltzmann’s constant). In this work we point out the existence of a remarkable duality between nonrelativistic quantum mechanics on the one hand, and Newtonian cosmology on the other. Specifically, nonrelativistic quantum mechanics has a quantum probability fluid that exactly mimics the behaviour of the cosmological fluid, the latter considered in the Newtonian approximation. One proves that the equations governing the cosmological fluid (the Euler equation and the continuity equation) become the very equations that govern the quantum probability fluid after applying the Madelung transformation to the Schroedinger wavefunction. Under the assumption that gravitational equipotential surfaces can be identified with isoentropic surfaces, this model allows for a simple computation of the gravitational entropy of a Newtonian Universe. In a first approximation, we model the cosmological fluid as the quantum probability fluid of free Schroedinger waves. We find that this model Universe saturates the holographic bound. As a second approximation, we include the Hubble expansion of the galaxies. The corresponding Schroedinger waves lead to a value of the entropy lying three orders of magnitude below the holographic bound. Current work on a fully relativistic extension of our present model can be expected to yield results in even better agreement with empirical estimates of the entropy of the Universe.
Fungal Screening on Olive Oil for Extracellular Triacylglycerol Lipases: Selection of a Trichoderma harzianum Strain and Genome Wide Search for the Genes
Authors: Canseco-Pérez Miguel , Castillo-Avila Genny , Chi-Manzanero Bartolomé , Islas-Flores Ignacio , Apolinar-Hernández Max , Rivera-Muñoz Gerardo , Gamboa-Angulo Marcela , Sanchez-Teyer Felipe , Couoh-Uicab Yeny , Canto-Canché Blondy
Published: January 2018

A lipolytic screening with fungal strains isolated from lignocellulosic waste collected in banana plantation dumps was carried out. A Trichoderma harzianum strain (B13-1) showed good extracellular lipolytic activity (205 UmL−1). Subsequently, functional screening of the lipolytic activity on Rhodamine B enriched with olive oil as the only carbon source was performed. The successful growth of the strain allows us to suggest that a true lipase is responsible for the lipolytic activity in the B13-1 strain. In order to identify the gene(s) encoding the protein responsible for the lipolytic activity, in silico identification and characterization of triacylglycerol lipases from T. harzianum is reported for the first time. A survey in the genome of this fungus retrieved 50 lipases; however, bioinformatic analyses and putative functional descriptions in different databases allowed us to choose seven lipases as candidates. Suitability of the bioinformatic screening to select the candidates was confirmed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The gene codifying 526309 was expressed when the fungus grew in a medium with olive oil as carbon source. This protein shares homology with commercial lipases, making it a candidate for further applications. The success in identifying a lipase gene inducible with olive oil and the suitability of the functional screening and bioinformatic survey carried out herein, support the premise that the strategy can be used in other microorganisms with sequenced genomes to search for true lipases, or other enzymes belonging to large protein families.
Genotyping by Sequencing Highlights a Polygenic Resistance to Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Salgon Sylvia , Raynal Morgane , Lebon Sylvain , Baptiste Jean-Michel , Daunay Marie-Christine , Dintinger Jacques , Jourda Cyril
Published: January 2018

Eggplant cultivation is limited by numerous diseases, including the devastating bacterial wilt (BW) caused by the Ralstonia solanacearum species complex (RSSC). Within the RSSC, Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum (including phylotypes I and III) causes severe damage to all solanaceous crops, including eggplant. Therefore, the creation of cultivars resistant to R. pseudosolanacearum strains is a major goal for breeders. An intraspecific eggplant population, segregating for resistance, was created from the cross between the susceptible MM738 and the resistant EG203 lines. The population of 123 doubled haploid lines was challenged with two strains belonging to phylotypes I (PSS4) and III (R3598), which both bypass the published EBWR9 BW-resistance quantitative trait locus (QTL). Ten and three QTLs of resistance to PSS4 and to R3598, respectively, were detected and mapped. All were strongly influenced by environmental conditions. The most stable QTLs were found on chromosomes 3 and 6. Given their estimated physical position, these newly detected QTLs are putatively syntenic with BW-resistance QTLs in tomato. In particular, the QTLs’ position on chromosome 6 overlaps with that of the major broad-spectrum tomato resistance QTL Bwr-6. The present study is a first step towards understanding the complex polygenic system, which underlies the high level of BW resistance of the EG203 line.
Querying Workflow Logs
Authors: Tang Yan , Mackey Isaac , Su Jianwen
Published: January 2018

A business process or workflow is an assembly of tasks that accomplishes a business goal. Business process management is the study of the design, configuration/implementation, enactment and monitoring, analysis, and re-design of workflows. The traditional methodology for the re-design and improvement of workflows relies on the well-known sequence of extract, transform, and load (ETL), data/process warehousing, and online analytical processing (OLAP) tools. In this paper, we study the ad hoc queryiny of process enactments for (data-centric) business processes, bypassing the traditional methodology for more flexibility in querying. We develop an algebraic query language based on “incident patterns” with four operators inspired from Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN) representation, allowing the user to formulate ad hoc queries directly over workflow logs. A formal semantics of this query language, a preliminary query evaluation algorithm, and a group of elementary properties of the operators are provided.
A Robust Pyridyl-NHC-Ligated Rhenium Photocatalyst for CO2 Reduction in the Presence of Water and Oxygen
Authors: Carpenter Casey , Brogdon Phillip , McNamara Louis , Tschumper Gregory , Hammer Nathan , Delcamp Jared
Published: January 2018

Re(pyNHC-PhCF3)(CO)3Br is a highly active photocatalyst for CO2 reduction. The PhCF3 derivative was previously empirically shown to be a robust catalyst. Here, the role of the PhCF3 group is probed computationally and the robust nature of this catalyst is analyzed with regard to the presence of water and oxygen introduced in controlled amounts during the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO with visible light. This complex was found to work well from 0–1% water concentration reproducibly; however, trace amounts of water were required for benchmark Re(bpy)(CO)3Cl to give reproducible reactivity. When ambient air is added to the reaction mixture, the NHC complex was found to retain substantial performance (~50% of optimized reactivity) at up to 40% ambient atmosphere and 60% CO2 while the Re(bpy)(CO)3Cl complex was found to give a dramatically reduced CO2 reduction reactivity upon introduction of ambient atmosphere. Through the use of time-correlated single photon counting studies and prior electrochemical results, we reasoned that this enhanced catalyst resilience is due to a mechanistic difference between the NHC- and bpy-based catalysts. These results highlight an important feature of this NHC-ligated catalyst: substantially enhanced stability toward common reaction contaminates.
Polymorphisms/Mutations in A-Kinase Anchoring Proteins (AKAPs): Role in the Cardiovascular System
Authors: Suryavanshi Santosh , Jadhav Shweta , McConnell Bradley
Published: January 2018

A-kinase anchoring proteins (AKAPs) belong to a family of scaffolding proteins that bind to protein kinase A (PKA) by definition and a variety of crucial proteins, including kinases, phosphatases, and phosphodiesterases. By scaffolding these proteins together, AKAPs build a “signalosome” at specific subcellular locations and compartmentalize PKA signaling. Thus, AKAPs are important for signal transduction after upstream activation of receptors ensuring accuracy and precision of intracellular PKA-dependent signaling pathways. Since their discovery in the 1980s, AKAPs have been studied extensively in the heart and have been proven essential in mediating cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-PKA signaling. Although expression of AKAPs in the heart is very low, cardiac-specific knock-outs of several AKAPs have a noteworthy cardiac phenotype. Moreover, single nucleotide polymorphisms and genetic mutations in crucial cardiac proteins play a substantial role in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Despite the significant role of AKAPs in the cardiovascular system, a limited amount of research has focused on the role of genetic polymorphisms and/or mutations in AKAPs in increasing the risk of CVDs. This review attempts to overview the available literature on the polymorphisms/mutations in AKAPs and their effects on human health with a special focus on CVDs.
Complex Problem Solving and Its Position in the Wider Realm of the Human Intellect
Authors: Greiff Samuel , Scherer Ronny
Published: January 2018

We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.[...]
A Novel Bromophenol Derivative BOS-102 Induces Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Human A549 Lung Cancer Cells via ROS-Mediated PI3K/Akt and the MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Guo Chuan-Long , Wang Li-Jun , Zhao Yue , Liu Hua , Li Xiang-Qian , Jiang Bo , Luo Jiao , Guo Shu-Ju , Wu Ning , Shi Da-Yong
Published: January 2018

Bromophenol is a type of natural marine product. It has excellent biological activities, especially anticancer activities. In our study of searching for potent anticancer drugs, a novel bromophenol derivative containing indolin-2-one moiety, 3-(4-(3-([1,4′-bipiperidin]-1′-yl)propoxy)-3-bromo-5-methoxybenzylidene)-N-(4-bromophenyl)-2-oxoindoline-5-sulfonamide (BOS-102) was synthesized, which showed excellent anticancer activities on human lung cancer cell lines. A study of the mechanisms indicated that BOS-102 could significantly block cell proliferation in human A549 lung cancer cells and effectively induce G0/G1 cell cycle arrest via targeting cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4). BOS-102 could also induce apoptosis, including activating caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), increasing the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, enhancing reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP, ΔΨm), and leading cytochrome c release from mitochondria. Further research revealed that BOS-102 deactivated the PI3K/Akt pathway and activated the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway resulting in apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, which indicated that BOS-102 has the potential to develop into an anticancer drug.
Nano/Mesoporous Carbon from Rice Starch for Voltammetric Detection of Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Wahab Mohammad , Darain Farzana , Islam Nazrul , Young David
Published: January 2018

Rice starch (RS-)based nano/mesoporous carbon (RSNMC) was prepared via a hard-templating route using cheap rice starch as a carbon source. XRD and TEM characterization indicated the formation of organized nanoporous RSNMC. Nitrogen absorption–desorption studies revealed a high surface area of up to 488 m2∙g−1, uniform pore size of 3.92 nm, and pore volume of 1.14 cm3∙g−1. A RSNMC-modified glassy carbon (GC) electrode was employed for the determination of ascorbic acid (AA) and exhibited a linear response in the concentration range of 0.005–6.0 mM with a detection limit of 0.003 mM. These results demonstrate that RSNMC has potential as an advanced and cheap electrode material for electrochemical sensing and other electrocatalytic applications.
Study of the Direct Red 81 Dye/Copper(II)-Phenanthroline System
Authors: Walger Elsa , Marlin Nathalie , Molton Florian , Mortha Gérard
Published: January 2018

Recovered papers contain several chromophores, such as wood lignin and dyes. These have to be eliminated during paper recycling in order to produce white paper. Hydrogen peroxide under alkaline conditions is generally used to decolorize lignin, but its effect on dyes is limited. Copper(II)-phenanthroline (Cu-Phen) complexes can activate the oxidation of lignin by hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide may also be activated during recycled fiber bleaching, thus enhancing its color-stripping efficiency towards unoxidizable azo dyes. The purpose of this paper was to determine the effect of Cu-Phen complexes on a model azo dye, Direct Red 81 (DR81), in aqueous solution. Different Cu-Phen solutions (with different initial Cu:Phen molar ratios) were prepared and mixed with the dye at different pHs. The geochemical computer program PHREEQC allowed precise calculation of the theoretical distribution between different possible coordinates (CuPhenOH+, Cu(Phen)22+, CuPhen(OH)2, Cu(Phen)32+, etc.) depending on pH and initial concentrations. UV-vis spectroscopic measurements were correlated with the major species theoretically present in each condition. The UV absorbance of the system was mainly attributed to the Cu-Phen complex and the visible absorbance was only due to the dye. Cu-Phen appeared to reduce the color intensity of the DR81 dye aqueous solution under specific conditions (more effective at pH 10.7 with Cu:Phen = 1:1), probably owing to the occurrence of a coordination phenomenon between DR81 and Cu-Phen. Hence, the ligand competition between phenanthroline and hydroxide ions would be disturbed by a third competitor, which is the dye molecule. Further investigation proved that the DR81 dye is able to form a complex with copper-phenanthroline, leading to partial color-stripping. This new “color-stripping effect” may be a new opportunity in paper and textile industries for wastewater treatment.
Exploring Reaction Conditions to Improve the Magnetic Response of Cobalt-Doped Ferrite Nanoparticles
Authors: Galarreta Itziar , Insausti Maite , Gil de Muro Izaskun , Ruiz de Larramendi Idoia , Lezama Luis
Published: January 2018

With the aim of studying the influence of synthesis parameters in structural and magnetic properties of cobalt-doped magnetite nanoparticles, Fe3−xCoxO4 (0 < x < 0.15) samples were synthetized by thermal decomposition method at different reaction times (30–120 min). The Co ferrite nanoparticles are monodisperse with diameters between 6 and 11 nm and morphologies depending on reaction times, varying from spheric, cuboctahedral, to cubic. Chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction were used to confirm the composition, high crystallinity, and pure-phase structure. The investigation of the magnetic properties, both magnetization and electronic magnetic resonance, has led the conditions to improve the magnetic response of doped nanoparticles. Magnetization values of 86 emu·g−1 at room temperature (R.T.) have been obtained for the sample with the highest Co content and the highest reflux time. Magnetic characterization also displays a dependence of the magnetic anisotropy constant with the varying cobalt content.
Effects of Multivitamin, Multimineral and Phytonutrient Supplementation on Nutrient Status and Biomarkers of Heart Health Risk in a Russian Population: A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Study
Authors: Isakov Vasily , Bogdanova Alexandra , Bessonov Vladimir , Sentsova Tatiana , Tutelyan Victor , Lin Yumei , Kazlova Valentina , Hong Jina , Velliquette Rodney
Published: January 2018

The primary objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the effect of a dietary multivitamin, multimineral and phytonutrient (VMP) supplement on blood nutrient status and biomarkers of heart health risk in a Russian population. One hundred twenty healthy adults (40–70 years) were recruited for a 56-day (eight-week) randomized, double blind, placebo controlled study with parallel design. Subjects were divided into two groups and received either a VMP or a placebo (PLA) supplement. Blood nutrient levels of β-carotene, α-tocopherol, vitamin C, B6, B12, red blood cell (RBC) folate, Zinc and Selenium were measured at baseline and on Days 28 and 56, and quercetin was measured at baseline and on Day 56. Blood biomarkers of heart health, i.e. homocysteine (Hcy), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), oxidized LDL (ox-LDL), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), uric acid and blood lipid profile, were measured at baseline and Day 56. Dietary VMP supplementation for 56 days significantly increased circulating levels of quercetin, vitamin C, RBC folate and partially prevented the decline in vitamin B6 and B12 status. Both serum Hcy and GGT were significantly reduced (−3.97 ± 10.09 µmol/L; −1.68 ± 14.53 U/L, respectively) after VMP supplementation compared to baseline. Dietary VMP supplementation improved the nutrient status and reduced biomarkers of heart health risk in a Russian population.
Minoxidil Skin Delivery from Nanoemulsion Formulations Containing Eucalyptol or Oleic Acid: Enhanced Diffusivity and Follicular Targeting
Authors: Abd Eman , Benson Heather , Roberts Michael , Grice Jeffrey
Published: January 2018

In this work, we examined enhanced skin delivery of minoxidil applied in nanoemulsions incorporating skin penetration enhancers. Aliquots of fully characterized oil-in-water nanoemulsions (1 mL), containing minoxidil (2%) and the skin penetration enhancer oleic acid or eucalyptol as oil phases, were applied to full-thickness excised human skin in Franz diffusion cells, while aqueous solutions (1 mL) containing minoxidil were used as controls. Minoxidil in the stratum corneum (SC), hair follicles, deeper skin layers, and flux through the skin over 24 h was determined, as well as minoxidil solubility in the formulations and in the SC. The nanoemulsions significantly enhanced the permeation of minoxidil through skin compared with control solutions. The eucalyptol formulations (NE) promoted minoxidil retention in the SC and deeper skin layers more than did the oleic acid formulations, while the oleic acid formulations (NO) gave the greatest hair follicle penetration. Minoxidil maximum flux enhancement was associated with increases in both minoxidil SC solubility and skin diffusivity in both nanoemulsion systems. The mechanism of enhancement appeared to be driven largely by increased diffusivity, rather than increased partitioning into the stratum corneum, supporting the concept of enhanced fluidity and disruption of stratum corneum lipids.
Investigation of the Interaction between Benzene and SXFA Using DFT
Authors: Stewart Katherine , Hamilton Ian , Penlidis Alexander
Published: January 2018

Density Functional Theory (DFT) studies were conducted to evaluate the sensing mechanism between benzene and a polymeric sensing material, referred to as SXFA, which contains trifluoro-groups and OH-groups. These studies were undertaken to improve the understanding of how benzene and SXFA mechanistically interact based on their chemistry, information which can be used to more efficiently design polymeric sensing materials. We find that benzene adsorbed onto the OH-groups in SXFA rather than the trifluoro-groups as previously proposed. Specifically, we find that sorption results from electrostatic attraction between the negative benzene ring and the positive hydrogens of the OH-groups of SXFA.
Implications of Emerging Vehicle Technologies on Rare Earth Supply and Demand in the United States
Authors: Fishman Tomer , Myers Rupert , Rios Orlando , Graedel T.E.
Published: January 2018

We explore the long-term demand and supply potentials of rare earth elements in alternative energy vehicles (AEVs) in the United States until 2050. Using a stock-flow model, we compare a baseline scenario with scenarios that incorporate an exemplary technological innovation: a novel aluminum–cerium–magnesium alloy. We find that the introduction of the novel alloy demonstrates that even low penetration rates can exceed domestic cerium production capacity, illustrating possible consequences of technological innovations to material supply and demand. End-of-life vehicles can, however, overtake domestic mining as a source of materials, calling for proper technologies and policies to utilize this emerging source. The long-term importing of critical materials in manufactured and semi-manufactured products shifts the location of material stocks and hence future secondary supply of high-value materials, culminating in a double benefit to the importing country. This modeling approach is adaptable to the study of varied scenarios and materials, linking technologies with supply and demand dynamics in order to understand their potential economic and environmental consequences.
Stable Water Isotopologues in the Stratosphere Retrieved from Odin/SMR Measurements
Authors: Wang Tongmei , Zhang Qiong , Lossow Stefan , Chafik Léon , Risi Camille , Murtagh Donal , Hannachi Abdel
Published: January 2018

Stable Water Isotopologues (SWIs) are important diagnostic tracers for understanding processes in the atmosphere and the global hydrological cycle. Using eight years (2002–2009) of retrievals from Odin/SMR (Sub-Millimetre Radiometer), the global climatological features of three SWIs, H216O, HDO and H218O, the isotopic composition δD and δ18O in the stratosphere are analysed for the first time. Spatially, SWIs are found to increase with altitude due to stratospheric methane oxidation. In the tropics, highly depleted SWIs in the lower stratosphere indicate the effect of dehydration when the air comes through the cold tropopause, while, at higher latitudes, more enriched SWIs in the upper stratosphere during summer are produced and transported to the other hemisphere via the Brewer–Dobson circulation. Furthermore, we found that more H216O is produced over summer Northern Hemisphere and more HDO is produced over summer Southern Hemisphere. Temporally, a tape recorder in H216O is observed in the lower tropical stratosphere, in addition to a pronounced downward propagating seasonal signal in SWIs from the upper to the lower stratosphere over the polar regions. These observed features in SWIs are further compared to SWI-enabled model outputs. This helped to identify possible causes of model deficiencies in reproducing main stratospheric features. For instance, choosing a better advection scheme and including methane oxidation process in a specific model immediately capture the main features of stratospheric water vapor. The representation of other features, such as the observed inter-hemispheric difference of isotopic component, is also discussed.
Retrieval Accuracy of HCHO Vertical Column Density from Ground-Based Direct-Sun Measurement and First HCHO Column Measurement Using Pandora
Authors: Park Junsung , Lee Hanlim , Kim Jhoon , Herman Jay , Kim Woogyung , Hong Hyunkee , Choi Wonei , Yang Jiwon , Kim Daewon
Published: January 2018

In the present study, we investigate the effects of signal to noise (SNR), slit function (FWHM), and aerosol optical depth (AOD) on the accuracy of formaldehyde (HCHO) vertical column density (HCHOVCD) using the ground-based direct-sun synthetic radiance based on differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS). We found that the effect of SNR on HCHO retrieval accuracy is larger than those of FWHM and AOD. When SNR = 650 (1300), FWHM = 0.6, and AOD = 0.2, the absolute percentage difference (APD) between the true HCHOVCD values and those retrieved ranges from 54 (30%) to 5% (1%) for the HCHOVCD of 5.0 × 1015 and 1.1 × 1017 molecules cm−2, respectively. Interestingly, the maximum AOD effect on the HCHO accuracy was found for the HCHOVCD of 3.0 × 1016 molecules cm−2. In addition, we carried out the first ground-based direct-sun measurements in the ultraviolet (UV) wavelength range to retrieve the HCHOVCD using Pandora in Seoul. The HCHOVCD was low at 12:00 p.m. local time (LT) in all seasons, whereas it was high in the morning (10:00 a.m. LT) and late afternoon (4:00 p.m. LT), except in winter. The maximum HCHOVCD values were 2.68 × 1016, 3.19 × 1016, 2.00 × 1016, and 1.63 × 1016 molecules cm−2 at 10:00 a.m. LT in spring, 10:00 a.m. LT in summer, 1:00 p.m. LT in autumn, and 9:00 a.m. LT in winter, respectively. The minimum values of Pandora HCHOVCD were 1.63 × 1016, 2.23 × 1016, 1.26 × 1016, and 0.82 × 1016 molecules cm−2 at around 1:45 p.m. LT in spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. This seasonal pattern of high values in summer and low values in winter implies that photo-oxidation plays an important role in HCHO production. The correlation coefficient (R) between the monthly HCHOVCD values from Pandora and those from the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) is 0.61, and the slope is 1.25.
Fabrications and Performance of Wireless LC Pressure Sensors through LTCC Technology
Authors: Lin Lin , Ma Mingsheng , Zhang Faqiang , Liu Feng , Liu Zhifu , Li Yongxiang
Published: January 2018

This paper presents a kind of passive wireless pressure sensor comprised of a planar spiral inductor and a cavity parallel plate capacitor fabricated through low-temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) technology. The LTCC material with a low Young’s modulus of ~65 GPa prepared by our laboratory was used to obtain high sensitivity. A three-step lamination process was applied to construct a high quality cavity structure without using any sacrificial materials. The effects of the thickness of the sensing membranes on the sensitivity and detection range of the pressure sensors were investigated. The sensor with a 148 μm sensing membrane showed the highest sensitivity of 3.76 kHz/kPa, and the sensor with a 432 μm sensing membrane presented a high detection limit of 2660 kPa. The tunable sensitivity and detection limit of the wireless pressure sensors can meet the requirements of different scenes.
Preliminary Results of a New Auxiliary Mechatronic Near-Field Radar System to 3D Mammography for Early Detection of Breast Cancer
Authors: Ghanbarzadeh Dagheyan Ashkan , Molaei Ali , Obermeier Richard , Westwood Andrew , Martinez Aida , Martinez Lorenzo Jose
Published: January 2018

Accurate and early detection of breast cancer is of high importance, as it is directly associated with the patients’ overall well-being during treatment and their chances of survival. Uncertainties in current breast imaging methods can potentially cause two main problems: (1) missing newly formed or small tumors; and (2) false alarms, which could be a source of stress for patients. A recent study at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) indicates that using Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) can reduce the number of false alarms, when compared to conventional mammography. Despite the image quality enhancement DBT provides, the accurate detection of cancerous masses is still limited by low radiological contrast (about 1%) between the fibro-glandular tissue and affected tissue at X-ray frequencies. In a lower frequency region, at microwave frequencies, the contrast is comparatively higher (about 10%) between the aforementioned tissues; yet, microwave imaging suffers from low spatial resolution. This work reviews conventional X-ray breast imaging and describes the preliminary results of a novel near-field radar imaging mechatronic system (NRIMS) that can be fused with the DBT, in a co-registered fashion, to combine the advantages of both modalities. The NRIMS consists of two antipodal Vivaldi antennas, an XY positioner, and an ethanol container, all of which are particularly designed based on the DBT physical specifications. In this paper, the independent performance of the NRIMS is assessed by (1) imaging a bearing ball immersed in sunflower oil and (2) computing the heat Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) due to the electromagnetic power transmitted into the breast. The preliminary results demonstrate that the system is capable of generating images of the ball. Furthermore, the SAR results show that the system complies with the standards set for human trials. As a result, a configuration based on this design might be suitable for use in realistic clinical applications.
Dual-Mode Gas Sensor Composed of a Silicon Nanoribbon Field Effect Transistor and a Bulk Acoustic Wave Resonator: A Case Study in Freons
Authors: Chang Ye , Hui Zhipeng , Wang Xiayu , Qu Hemi , Pang Wei , Duan Xuexin
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we develop a novel dual-mode gas sensor system which comprises a silicon nanoribbon field effect transistor (Si-NR FET) and a film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR). We investigate their sensing characteristics using polar and nonpolar organic compounds, and demonstrate that polarity has a significant effect on the response of the Si-NR FET sensor, and only a minor effect on the FBAR sensor. In this dual-mode system, qualitative discrimination can be achieved by analyzing polarity with the Si-NR FET and quantitative concentration information can be obtained using a polymer-coated FBAR with a detection limit at the ppm level. The complementary performance of the sensing elements provides higher analytical efficiency. Additionally, a dual mixture of two types of freons (CFC-113 and HCFC-141b) is further analyzed with the dual-mode gas sensor. Owing to the small size and complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-compatibility of the system, the dual-mode gas sensor shows potential as a portable integrated sensing system for the analysis of gas mixtures in the future.
A Novel Noncircular MUSIC Algorithm Based on the Concept of the Difference and Sum Coarray
Authors: Chen Zhenhong , Ding Yingtao , Ren Shiwei , Chen Zhiming
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we propose a vectorized noncircular MUSIC (VNCM) algorithm based on the concept of the coarray, which can construct the difference and sum (diff–sum) coarray, for direction finding of the noncircular (NC) quasi-stationary sources. Utilizing both the NC property and the concept of the Khatri–Rao product, the proposed method can be applied to not only the ULA but also sparse arrays. In addition, we utilize the quasi-stationary characteristic instead of the spatial smoothing method to solve the coherent issue generated by the Khatri–Rao product operation so that the available degree of freedom (DOF) of the constructed virtual array will not be reduced by half. Compared with the traditional NC virtual array obtained in the NC MUSIC method, the diff–sum coarray achieves a higher number of DOFs as it comprises both the difference set and the sum set. Due to the complementarity between the difference set and the sum set for the coprime array, we choose the coprime array with multiperiod subarrays (CAMpS) as the array model and summarize the properties of the corresponding diff–sum coarray. Furthermore, we develop a diff–sum coprime array with multiperiod subarrays (DsCAMpS) whose diff–sum coarray has a higher DOF. Simulation results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method and the high DOF of the diff–sum coarray.
A Novel Single-Axis MEMS Tilt Sensor with a High Sensitivity in the Measurement Range from 0∘ to 360∘
Authors: Wang Shudong , Wei Xueyong , Weng Yinsheng , Zhao Yulong , Jiang Zhuangde
Published: January 2018

In this paper, a novel single-axis MEMS tilt sensor is presented. It contains a hexagonal proof mass, six micro-lever force amplifiers and three double-ended-tuning fork (DETF) resonant strain gauges. The proof mass is placed in the center with the micro-levers and the DETFs radially arrayed around. The variation of gravity acceleration applied on the proof mass will result in frequency shifts of the DETFs. Angular tilt can be got by analyzing the frequency outputs. The structural design of the tilt sensor is optimized by finite element simulation and the device is microfabricated using a silicon-on-insulator process, followed by open-loop and closed-loop characterizations. Results show that the scale factor of such sensor is at least 11.53 Hz/degree. Minimum Allan deviation of the DETF oscillator is 220 ppb (parts per billion) of the resonant frequency for an 5 s integration time. Resolution of the tilt sensor is 0.002 ∘ in the whole measurement range from 0 ∘ to 360 ∘ .
VLSI Design of Trusted Virtual Sensors
Authors: Martínez-Rodríguez Macarena , Prada-Delgado Miguel , Brox Piedad , Baturone Iluminada
Published: January 2018

This work presents a Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) design of trusted virtual sensors providing a minimum unitary cost and very good figures of size, speed and power consumption. The sensed variable is estimated by a virtual sensor based on a configurable and programmable PieceWise-Affine hyper-Rectangular (PWAR) model. An algorithm is presented to find the best values of the programmable parameters given a set of (empirical or simulated) input-output data. The VLSI design of the trusted virtual sensor uses the fast authenticated encryption algorithm, AEGIS, to ensure the integrity of the provided virtual measurement and to encrypt it, and a Physical Unclonable Function (PUF) based on a Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) to ensure the integrity of the sensor itself. Implementation results of a prototype designed in a 90-nm Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) technology show that the active silicon area of the trusted virtual sensor is 0.86 mm 2 and its power consumption when trusted sensing at 50 MHz is 7.12 mW. The maximum operation frequency is 85 MHz, which allows response times lower than 0.25 μ s. As application example, the designed prototype was programmed to estimate the yaw rate in a vehicle, obtaining root mean square errors lower than 1.1%. Experimental results of the employed PUF show the robustness of the trusted sensing against aging and variations of the operation conditions, namely, temperature and power supply voltage (final value as well as ramp-up time).
Economic Assessment of Flood Control Facilities under Climate Uncertainty: A Case of Nakdong River, South Korea
Authors: Kim Kyeongseok , Kim Ji-Sung
Published: January 2018

Climate change contributes to enhanced flood damage that has been increasing for the last several decades. Understanding climate uncertainties improves adaptation strategies used for investment in flood control facilities. This paper proposes an investment decision framework for one flood zone to cope with future severe climate impacts. This framework can help policy-makers investigate the cost of future damage and conduct an economic assessment using real options under future climate change scenarios. The proposed methodology provides local municipalities with an adaptation strategy for flood control facilities in a flood zone. Using the proposed framework, the flood prevention facilities in the Nakdong River Basin of South Korea was selected as a case study site to analyze the economic assessment of the investments for flood control facilities. Using representative concentration pathway (RCP) climate scenarios, the cost of future flood damage to 23 local municipalities was calculated, and investment strategies for adaptation were analyzed. The project option value was determined by executing an option to invest in an expansion that would adapt to floods under climate change. The results of the case study showed that the proposed flood facilities are economically feasible under both scenarios used. The framework is anticipated to present guidance for establishing investment strategies for flood control facilities of a flood zone in multiple municipalities’ settings.
Do Looks Matter? A Case Study on Extensive Green Roofs Using Discrete Choice Experiments
Authors: Vanstockem Jan , Vranken Liesbet , Bleys Brent , Somers Ben , Hermy Martin
Published: January 2018

Extensive green roofs are a promising type of urban green that can play an important role in climate proofing and ultimately in the sustainability of our cities. Despite their increasingly widespread application and the growing scientific interest in extensive green roofs, their aesthetics have received limited scientific attention. Furthermore, several functional issues occur, as weedy species can colonize the roof, and extreme roof conditions can lead to gaps in the vegetation. Apart from altering the function of a green roof, we also expect these issues to influence the perception of extensive green roofs, possibly affecting their acceptance and application. We therefore assessed the preferences of a self-selected convenience sample of 155 Flemish respondents for visual aspects using a discrete choice experiment. This approach, combined with current knowledge on the psychological aspects of green roof visuals, allowed us to quantify extensive green roof preferences. Our results indicate that vegetation gaps and weedy species, together with a diverse vegetation have a considerable impact on green roof perception. Gaps were the single most important attribute, indicated by a relative importance of ca. 53%, with cost coming in at a close second at ca. 46%. Overall, this study explores the applicability of a stated preference technique to assess an often overlooked aspect of extensive green roofs. It thereby provides a foundation for further research aimed at generating practical recommendations for green roof construction and maintenance.
Rickettsial Infections and Q Fever Amongst Febrile Patients in Bhutan
Authors: Tshokey Tshokey , Stenos John , Durrheim David , Eastwood Keith , Nguyen Chelsea , Vincent Gemma , Graves Stephen
Published: January 2018

There is limited evidence of rickettsial diseases in Bhutan. We explored the contribution of rickettsioses as a cause of undifferentiated febrile illness in patients presenting to 14 Bhutanese hospitals from October 2014 to June 2015. Obvious causes of fever were excluded clinically. Clinico-demographic information and acute blood samples were collected. Samples were tested by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and qPCR against scrub typhus group (STG), spotted fever group (SFG) and typhus group (TG) rickettsiae, and Q fever (QF). Of the 1044 patients, 539 (51.6%) were female and the mean age was 31.5 years. At least 159 (15.2%) of the patients had evidence of a concurrent rickettsial infection. Of these, 70 (6.7%), 46 (4.4%), 4 (0.4%), and 29 (2.8%) were diagnosed as acute infections with STG, SFG, TG, and QF respectively. Ten (1.0%) patients were seropositive for both SFG and TG. Seven of the 70 STG patients were positive by qPCR. Eschar (p < 0.001), myalgia (p = 0.003), and lymphadenopathy (p = 0.049) were significantly associated with STG, but no specific symptoms were associated with the other infections. Disease incidences were not different between age groups, genders, occupations, and districts, except for students with significantly lower odds of infection with STG (OR = 0.43; 95% CI = 0.20, 0.93; p = 0.031). Rickettsioses were responsible for at least 15% of undifferentiated febrile illnesses in Bhutan, scrub typhus being the commonest. Health authorities should ensure that health services are equipped to manage these infections.
High-Strength Domestic Wastewater Treatment and Reuse with Onsite Passive Methods
Authors: De Anda José , López-López Alberto , Villegas-García Edgardo , Valdivia-Aviña Karla
Published: January 2018

This paper describes the preliminary monitoring results of an onsite pilot wastewater treatment plant consisting of a septic tank, an anaerobic up-flow filter, and a horizontal subsurface flow wetland system planted with Agapanthus africanus. The system was designed to treat heavily polluted domestic wastewater produced in a research and development (R&D) center, reaching additional goals of zero energy consumption and eliminating the use of chemical additives. First water quality data shows that organic load in the treated sewage were removed achieving more than 95% efficiency. Nutrients were removed by almost 50%, and fecal and total coliform counts decreased by 99.96%. The results were compared to official Mexican regulations for wastewater discharged into lakes and reservoirs complied with all of them except for nutrients. In this pilot project, the resulting treated wastewater was directly reused for watering the green areas of the R&D center. The result was that the excess of nutrients improved the quality of the grass, avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, and created a wetland habitat for small wildlife species living in the area.
Le Grand Genève vu d'en haut : la production d'une orthophotographie dans l'histoire culturelle de la vue
Authors: Rousseaux Vanessa
Published: January 2018

Based on the example of the Greater Geneva orthophotography (2012), this article shows that the organizational aspects of the production process are deeply linked with cross-border cooperation for spatial planning. Whereas orthophotography is one example of cultural evolution regarding views from above, it remains, despite its so-called objectivity, an institutional product. Just like maps, it is intended to play an important role in the political and identity construction of territories.
"Être ailleurs" dans le Grand Genève : les trajectoires résidentielles vécues des habitants de Saint-Cergue
Authors: Petite Mathieu
Published: January 2018

Each year, 4,000 ex-Geneva residents leave the canton to settle in France or in the district of Nyon. In the same time, the municipality of Saint-Cergue is characterized by the population movements among the highest in Switzerland. Who are the inhabitants who settle in Saint-Cergue ? What are they looking for ? What is their past life course ? This article aims at tackling these questions, by using an in-depth research on the residential trajectories of inhabitants of several municipalities of French-speaking Switzerland.
Calais : une traversée de l'exil
Authors: Faas Mahaud
Published: January 2018

De juin à septembre 2016, j'ai travaillé bénévolement dans le plus grand bidonville d'Europe, appelé la "jungle de Calais". Durant ces quelques mois, j'ai traversé les continents et fait la connaissance d'émotions que je n''avais jamais ressenties auparavant. Entre Soudan et Afghanistan, entre mélancolie et colère, j'ai vu Calais comme le carrefour de l'exil, à mi-chemin entre l'innommable et l'extraordinaire.
Qualitative and Quantitative Radiological Measures of Fracture Healing
Authors: Field John , Ruthenbeck Greg
Published: January 2018

The formulation of appropriate postoperative strategies, following fracture repair, currently involves an understanding of radiological and clinical outcome measures. This study has evaluated several modalities used to assess the progression of bone healing in a sheep tibial segmental defect model. Measures of defect optical density and volumetric data including bone density (BD), bone volume (BV) and bone mass (BM) were compared with qualitative data involving visual appraisal of radiographs [% bridging callus and modified radiographic union score tibia (mRUST)] and a clinical outcome measure (locomotory function). Percent bridging callus and mRUST measures displayed strong correlation (r = 0.999), while locomotory function was weakly correlated with bridging callus (r = 0.029) and mRUST (r = 0.046). There was moderate to strong correlation between the qualitative and quantitative data. Bone density, BV and BM showed strong correlations within this dataset (BD–BV, r = 0.814; BD–BM, r = 0.818; BV–BM, r = 1.000). Likewise, optical density measures were strongly correlated with BD (r = 0.824), BV (r = 0.957) and BM (r = 0.959). The utilization of both qualitative and quantitative data, in assessment of the progression of fracture healing, has provided valuable insight. Measures of optical density have been shown to make a substantial contribution to this assessment and which should be considered for use in studies evaluating fracture healing.