bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AVALIAÇÃO DOS FITORREGULADORES AUXINA E GIBERELINA NA GERMINAÇÃO E CRESCIMENTO DO ARROZ
Authors: Pedroso Luana , Bertoldo Juliana Leme , Marchi Bianca De Almeida , Cruz Rayane Monique Sete da , Souza Bruna Caroline de , Lermen Caroline , Alberton Odair
Published: May 2017

O arroz (Oryza sativa L.) é uma planta da família das Poaceas (gramíneas), sendo um dos cereais mais cultivados no mundo. Os fitorreguladores como auxina e giberilina podem influenciar o crescimento e desenvolvimento das plantas como o arroz. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a germinação e o crescimento do arroz sob diferentes doses de fitorreguladores (auxina e giberelina). Foram conduzidos dois experimentos, o primeiro para determinar a germinação e comprimento radicular das sementes de arroz. O segundo experimento foi conduzido para determinar a altura, massa seca da parte área (MSPA) e o conteúdo nitrogênio (N) da parte aérea (NPA). Nos dois experimentos foram testadas quatro doses de auxina + giberelina: 0 (testemunha); 200; 500 e 1000 mL ha–1. O delineamento experimental foi inteiramente casualizado com cinco repetições para cada tratamento nos dois experimentos. A germinação das sementes e o comprimento radicular foram aumentados com a aplicação de auxina e giberelina. A altura e o NPA foram aumentados significantemente com a aplicação de auxina e giberelina. Concluiu-se que a aplicação de auxina e giberelina na cultura do arroz aumentaram a germinação e o comprimento radicular das sementes. Além disso, aumentou a altura e o conteúdo de nitrogênio nas plantas de arroz.
Orthodontic Congregate in South Asia Region
Authors: Shrestha Rabindra Man
Published: May 2017

No abstract available.
Evaluation of the Effect of Complete and Partial Osseointegration in Stress Development at Bone-Implant Interface: A 3D Finite Element Study
Authors: Pandey Bashu Raj , Halwai Hemant Kumar , Adhikari Khushbu , Thakur Amresh
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Mini-implant has been in use as temporary anchorage device in orthodontics. Various factors like length, type of osseointegration, magnitude and direction of force, insertion angle of the mini-implant affect the stress development at the bone and implant interface. Development of undesirable stress at the bone-implant interface can lead to bone defect and failure of the implant. Various opinions regarding the need of osseointegration have been reported.Objective: To study the effect of complete and partial osseointegration on Von Mises stress distribution at the bone-implant interface.Materials & Method: Finite element model of 9mm × 1.5mm mini-implant and bone segment of 1.5mm were constructed to simulate the biomechanical response of the bone to the mini- implant by using CATIA V5-6R 2013 software. Stress developed on implant and bone were analyzed by using ANSYS: 13 2013 version software for both complete and partial level of osseointegration.Result: Maximum Von Mises stress in complete osseointegration was 14.49 Mpa in cortical bone, 0.551 Mpa in cancellous bone and 50.76 Mpa in implant. In partial osseointegration, it was 18.68 Mpa in cortical bone, 1.23 Mpa in cancellous bone and 66.80 Mpa in mini-implant.Conclusion: In partial osseointegration, stress developed was higher but well below the yield strength of respected continuum. So the partial osseointegration is a good compromise between the necessity of reducing mobility of implant and the necessity for easier screw removal. Key words: cancellous bone, cortical bone, Finite element analysis, mini-implant, Von Mises stress
Comparative Study of Shear Bond Strength of Recycled Brackets using different Recycling Techniques – An in vitro study
Authors: Singh Rajeshwar , Chaudhary Varunjeet , Lahoti Seema , Lahoti Kapil
Published: May 2017

Introduction: The debonding of brackets is common in orthodontic practice. It may be due to bond failure or as a need for bracket repositioning. Typically practitioners shall discard dislodged brackets and replace it with a new bracket or reuse the bracketObjective: To compare and evaluate the shear bond strength of recycled orthodontic brackets using different methods.Materials & Method: A total of 50 extracted premolars and 50 metal brackets with a slot configuration of 0.022”x0.028” were used. All samples were divided into 5 groups with 10 samples each. Each group was further divided into 2 groups which were control group and experimental group. Experimental group was further subdivided into four recycle sub-groups. Tooth surface were prepared for bonding then brackets were bonded. The specimens were tested on Universal Testing Machine for shear bond strength. The force producing bond failure was recorded in Newtons (N) and converted into megapascals (Mpa).Result: Shear bond strength of control group was maximum among all recycled groups. Shear bond strength of recycled brackets bonded with silane coupling agent and recycled with flaming, electropolishing, sandblasting and ultrasonic cleaning was equivalent to the control group. Brackets recycled with flaming and sandblasting had less shear bond strength as compared to control group. Brackets recycled with flaming and electropolishing were having the least shear bond strength.Conclusion: Brackets recycled with flaming, ultra sonic scaling, electropolishing and treated with silane coupling agent was recorded with highest shear bond strength. Sandblasting of metal brackets to remove composite residue, had insignificant effect on the shear bond strength. Hence sandblasting should be considered as viable, time saving and convenient method of recycling.
Displacement and Dilaceration of Permanent Teeth as a sequel of trauma to Primary Teeth diagnosed by CBCT: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Pokharel Pooja , Nimbeni Shruti B , Nimbeni Basavaraj S , Rout Sourav K
Published: May 2017

Dentoalveolar trauma to the primary teeth can result in displacement, dilaceration, discoloration, delayed eruption and impaction of permanent teeth. Displacement and dilaceration of permanent teeth is the most common sequel of such injuries. The severity of such condition depends on the force of impact, region of trauma and stage of tooth development of the permanent tooth. In the present case, there was dentoalveolar trauma to primary teeth as a result of which there was displacement of the permanent incisors into the nasal floor and 90 degree dilaceration at the cementoenamel junction. The treatment included surgical removal of the displaced teeth, exposure of palatally impacted canines followed by orthodontic correction and prosthodontic replacement of the extracted teeth. Cases of dentoalveolar trauma should be critically evaluated and advanced diagnostic aids like CBCT must be used for a clear picture of the case and better treatment planning. Treatment of such cases should be followed up for a longer period of time
Role of CBCT in diagnosis and treatment plan of Impacted teeth: A Case Report
Authors: Pradhan Darpa , Tian Tang
Published: May 2017

In recent years Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has become a widely accepted radiographic tool for diagnosis, treatment planning and follow-up in dentistry. 3D imaging has improved diagnostic efficiency and the practice of dentistry in a variety of ways; from routine evaluation to complex analysis of unusual pathology and congenital deformities. The technology available today makes dentistry better, easier, and more accurate. The most recognized need for CBCT imaging in orthodontics is that of the impacted canine evaluation. This article reports a patient having impacted right maxillary lateral incisor and canine; which is evaluated by 3D CBCT and was found beneficial particularly in terms of anatomical detail of root resorption and labiolingual relationships of the impacted tooth with the roots of neighboring teeth. Linear and angular measurements on CBCT images were accurate and helped in determining the exact location of the impacted teeth making it convenient for the surgical exposure of impacted teet
The Copper of the Kyffhäuser Monument
Authors: Undisz A. , Wilke J. , Kolbe H. , Seeger J. , Rettenmayr M.
Published: May 2017

The connection between copper and art goes way back. For thousands of years, the ductile metal has been worked in cold state via hammer and punch to make jewelry, vessels or monuments. More recent examples are the Statue of Liberty in New York, the Quadriga in Berlin and the equestrian statue of Emperor William I at the Kyffhäuser. During the recently completed renovation of the Kyffhäuser monument it was possible to perform a scientific examination on the copper of the equestrian statue. The examinations showed that the material is multiphase due to the content of oxygen and lead. With regard to the mechanical properties, the impurity phases are only of little importance. Details of the microstructure with a spatially coherent order of impurity phases, however, have never been observed in this way. The formation of the microstructure is discussed taking into account the particular circumstances of the artistic shaping via repoussé and chasing.
Snow Removal Performance Metrics: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Xu Gang , Sturges Leigh , Chapman Michael , Albrecht Chris , Bergner Dave , Shi Xianming
Published: May 2017

Snow and ice maintenance operations are among the most critical functions of state transportation agencies and municipalities in cold regions. The use of snow removal performance metrics is of increasing interest to transportation practitioners and academics. For this paper, a comprehensive literature review and a survey were conducted to gather information on the performance metrics used in winter highway maintenance activities by different transportation agencies. Performance goals for snow and ice control were identified in the survey, with average rankings as follows (in descending order): safety, mobility, economy, essential functions, environment, infrastructure, and livability. The survey results were also tabulated and analyzed to identify best practices and future trends in the agencies. Restoring safety and mobility consistently remains a priority of nearly all agencies. At present, the time taken to reach an established level of service is the most commonly used metric of different agencies. Because of the relatively high effectiveness, reliability, and timeliness of outcome-based and severity index–based performance metrics, more agencies are moving toward these types of metrics. Performance measurement by geographic area was also investigated but no clear trend was found.
Travel and Transformation
Authors: Hu Bo
Published: May 2017

Few concepts in the medical history of China have been more entangled with
modernization and nation-building than weisheng. Originally a concept inextricably
bound up with traditional Chinese medicine, it underwent drastic
changes and became a near equivalent of modern hygiene. Drawing on the
notion of traveling concepts, this article traces the travel and transformation
it experienced in journal articles between 1880 and 1930, focusing on how
the new concept gradually took shape and became established in public discourse,
the enabling and resisting agents, as well as their agendas.
Conceptual Universalization and the Role of the Peripheries
Authors: Nygård Stefan , Strang Johan
Published: May 2017

Why are some intellectual milieus more prone to universalism than others?
Ultimately, it is about power and who can afford to ignore whom. While the
international status and recognition of a specific intellectual community—
linguistic, urban, national, or regional—are obvious factors, they do not fully
account for why the step from local experience to universal claim is shorter
for some and longer for others. By combining an actor-oriented discussion
of the processes through which intellectuals claim universal validity and
applicability for concepts with a discussion of center-periphery tensions in
transnational exchange, this article explores the logic of conceptual universalization
from the perspective of the European margins.
Science, Customs, and the Modern Subject
Authors: León Pablo Sánchez
Published: May 2017

Eighteenth-century Spain was haunted by a sense of decadence. Consequently,
intellectual innovation developed in its attempt to recover its lost
grandeur while keeping its Catholic culture. In such a context, politicaleconomic
reflection focused in a remarkable way on a scientific approach to
social habits. Reception of foreign developments was adapted to a framework
that fostered the enhancement of individualism but not of individual self-determination.
The first part of the article shows that the approach to customs
initially elaborated on the concept of emulation as a moral sentiment
for overcoming collective passions that precluded cooperation. The second
part shifts the focus to a discussion of education as an antidote against traditional
prejudices but also as a bulwark to both modern moral hazards derived
from commercial society and republicanism.
Midlife Metabolic Profile and the Risk of Late-Life Cognitive Decline
Authors: Tortelli Rosanna , Lozupone Madia , Guerra Vito , Barulli Maria Rosaria , Imbimbo Bruno P. , Capozzo Rosa , Grasso Alessandra , Tursi Marianna , Di Dio Cristina , Sardone Rodolfo , Giannelli Gianluigi , Seripa Davide , Misciagna Giovanni , Panza Francesco , Logroscino Giancarlo
Published: May 2017

Among metabolic syndrome components, the effects of higher plasma glucose levels on cognitive decline (CD) have been considered in few studies. We evaluated the associations among midlife glycemia, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, midlife insulin resistance [homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-index)], and CD in the older subjects of the population-based MICOL Study (Castellana Grotte, Italy) at baseline (M1) and at follow-ups seven (M2) and twenty years later (M3). At M1, a dementia risk score and a composite cardiovascular risk score for dementia were calculated. For 797 subjects out of 833, we obtained a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score at M3, subdividing these subjects in three cognitive functioning subgroups: normal cognition, mild CD, and moderate-severe CD. Mean fasting glycemia at baseline was significantly higher in moderate-severe CD subgroup (114.6±71.4 mg/dl) than in the normal cognition subgroup (101.2±20.6). Adjusting for gender, age, and other metabolic components, higher fasting glycemia values both at M1 [odds ratio (OR) = 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08–1.59] and M2 (OR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.01–1.57) were associated with an increased risk of moderate-severe CD. Mean HOMA index value was significantly higher in the moderate-severe CD subgroup (5.7±9.4) compared to the normal cognition subgroup (2.9±1.4) at M1. The dementia risk probability (MMSE < 24) increased moving through higher categories of the dementia risk score and decreased as long as the cardiovascular score increased. The present findings highlighted the indication to control blood glucose levels, regardless of a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, as early as midlife for prevention of late-life dementia.
Transactive DNA Binding Protein 43 Rather Than Other Misfolded Proteins in the Brain is Associated with Islet Amyloid Polypeptide in Pancreas in Aged Subjects with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Leino Marina , Popova Svetlana N. , Alafuzoff Irina
Published: May 2017

A link between diabetes mellitus (DM) related islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) related amyloid-β (Aβ) has been suggested in epidemiological and clinical studies. In 2017, proof for existing interaction between type 2 DM and AD on a molecular level was provided based on research carried out in experimental animal models. We assessed aging-related neurodegenerative lesions, i.e., misfolded proteins, associated with dementia such as hyperphosphorylated τ (HP τ), Aβ, α-synuclein (αS), and phosphorylated transactive DNA binding protein 43 (pTDP43) seen in the brain and IAPP seen in the pancreas in subjects with and without DM applying immunohistochemical techniques. HP τ in the brain and IAPP in the pancreas were observed in most subjects. The prevalence and the extent of all misfolded proteins increased with age but this increase was not influenced by DM. Interestingly the extent of misfolded proteins in the brain was higher in non-diabetics when compared with diabetics in demented. A significant correlation was observed between HP τ, Aβ, αS, and pTDP43, whereas IAPP showed no association with HP τ, Aβ, and αS. In subjects with DM, the extent of pTDP43 in brain correlated with the extent of IAPP in pancreas. Thus, there is no evidence of a link between AD-related pathology and DM in humans, whereas an association was found between pTDP43 and IAPP in DM. TDP43 is ubiquitously expressed in all organs but whether TDP43 is phosphorylated in other organs in DM or whether the phosphorylation of TDP43 is influenced by glucose metabolism is yet unknown.
An Efficiently Parallelized High-Order Aeroacoustics Solver Using a Characteristic-Based Multi-Block Interface Treatment and Optimized Compact Finite Differencing
Authors: Khanal Bidur , Saddington Alistair , Knowles Kevin
Published: May 2017

This paper presents the development of a fourth-order finite difference computational aeroacoustics solver. The solver works with a structured multi-block grid domain strategy, and it has been parallelized efficiently by using an interface treatment based on the method of characteristics. More importantly, it extends the characteristic boundary condition developments of previous researchers by introducing a characteristic-based treatment at the multi-block interfaces. In addition, most characteristic methods do not satisfy Pfaff’s condition, which is a requirement for any mathematical relation to be valid. A mathematically-consistent and valid method is used in this work to derive the characteristic interface conditions. Furthermore, a robust and efficient approach for the matching of turbulence quantities at the multi-block interfaces is developed. Finally, the implementation of grid metric relations to minimise grid-induced errors has been adopted. The code was validated against a number of benchmark cases, which demonstrated its accuracy and robustness across a range of problem types.
Heterogeneous Organizational Arrangements in Agrifood Chains: A Governance Value Analysis Perspective on the Sheep and Goat Meat Sector of Italy
Authors: Perito Maria , De Rosa Marcello , Bartoli Luca , Chiodo Emilio , Martino Giuseppe
Published: May 2017

In the Italian agrifood sector, one observes heterogeneity in the types of quality certification processes. This heterogeneity cannot be explained by standard governance theories like transaction costs economics (TCE). We use the governance value analysis (GVA) perspective that synthesizes TCE and a resources-based view (RBV), to suggest that the observed heterogeneity in organizational forms is a result of heterogeneous differentiating strategies that farms have pursued in the face of competitive pricing pressures. To empirically test GVA, data are obtained using a survey methodology on lamb meat produced by local farms in the Abruzzo region of Italy, challenged by price-costs squeeze. Our empirical test evidences the relevance of the adopted approach, enlightening different organizational arrangements, strictly linked to both the strategic positioning and to the farms’ resources and core competencies.
Salmonid Jumping and Playing: Potential Cultural and Welfare Implications
Authors: Fagen Robert
Published: May 2017

Salmonids of several species and other fishes can jump into the air from the water. This behavior has been used in net pen culture applications to control parasitic sea lice. The reasons that salmonids jump remain a topic for speculation. Research on these behaviors has focused on Atlantic salmon in net pen culture in Northwest Europe. Jumping in salmonids is a heterogeneous behavioral category with diverse functional outcomes. Additional research is needed from broad perspectives spanning indigenous and institutional science, cultural wisdom, and ethological direct observation. In theory and in practice, it is interesting that some salmonid jumping behavior may be a form of play.
Passive Vibration Control of a Semi-Submersible Floating Offshore Wind Turbine
Authors: Li Chao , Zhuang Tongyi , Zhou Shengtao , Xiao Yiqing , Hu Gang
Published: May 2017

Floating offshore wind turbines have the potential to commercially convert the vast wind resource in deep-water area. Compared with fixed-bottom wind turbines, motions of the floating foundation complicate vibrations and loads of the wind turbine in offshore environment. To alleviate the responses of the wind turbine, this study investigates the use of fore–aft tuned mass damper (TMD) in nacelle/tower for passive control of a semi-submersible offshore wind turbine. A simplified structural model, considering the degree-of-freedom of platform pitch and surge, tower tilt and TMD translation, is proposed in the light of motion features of semi-submersible platform. After identifying ten unknown parameters, the correctness of the deterministic model is validated by pitch free decay responses. The mass, stiffness and damping of TMD are optimized using both method of exhaustion and genetic algorithm to avoid local minimum. Six optimized TMD devices are evaluated under three kinds of realistic environment conditions. The control effectiveness is assessed by the extreme and fatigue response reduction ratios. It is found that the high stiffness TMDs that directly dissipate the energy of tower oscillation exhibit an overall stable performance. Similar to the spar-type foundation, the TMDs in the nacelle/tower are capable of extending the service life of floating wind turbines.
Control of the Polymorphism of Calcium Carbonate Produced by Self-Healing in the Cracked Part of Cementitious Materials
Authors: Choi Heesup , Choi Hyeonggil , Inoue Masumi , Sengoku Risa
Published: May 2017

Cracking is an inherent development in reinforced concrete structures and can lead to serious damages during their service period. The repeated occurrence of such damages can enlarge the cracks, thereby allowing other deteriorating elements such as CO2 and Cl− to further infiltrate the concrete, which can seriously compromise the concrete structure. This study focuses on the type of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) crystals generated by the self-healing phenomenon. Owing to polymorphism, CaCO3 has three types of crystal forms—calcite, vaterite, and aragonite—whose formation can be controlled by the temperature and pH. Vaterite has the highest density among these crystals, and it is expected to be capable of self-healing. Therefore, experiments were conducted to establish the conditions required to promote the generation of vaterite. A saturated Ca(OH)2 solution with CO2 nanobubbles (CN) was employed for effective self-healing. The temperature was controlled at 20, 40, and 60 °C, and the pH was controlled at 9.0, 10.5, and 12.0. The results showed that the self-healing of cracks occurred both on the surface and internally, and the main product of the self-healing phenomenon was vaterite in CaCO3 crystals at a pH of 9.0 and a temperature of 40 °C. Furthermore, the addition of a saturated Ca(OH)2 solution with CO2 nanobubbles (CN) resulted in the most effective self-healing of the surface and internal cracks.
Modular and Offsite Construction of Piping: Current Barriers and Route
Authors: Li Xiaodan , Li Zhongfu , Wu Guangdong
Published: May 2017

To investigate current practices and identify challenges of piping prefabrication, this paper conducts a comprehensive survey to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors. This paper is performed in three main steps. First, the current state of piping prefabrication, the attitude of MEP contractors to piping prefabrication, and the challenges of piping prefabrication are identified through a comprehensive data collection process that included semi-structured interviews, case studies, site visits, and questionnaires. The second step included suggesting a pattern and roadway of piping prefabrication. The results showed that: (1) The attitudes to feasibility of piping prefabrication differ in piping systems, piping connector modes, and types of project; and (2) building information modelling (BIM) promotes the adoption of piping prefabrication. Integrated project delivery (IPD), and distributor’s early involvement into projects have significant effects on the successful implementation of piping prefabrication. (3) The main barriers and challenges were identified including the low level of standardization of design, lack of preferential policy, economies of scale, low-skilled workers, as well as the availability of fittings and valves. In the final step, a four-phase route of piping prefabrication is suggested for MEP contractors to expand the prefabrication capacity incrementally. The main contributions of this paper include: (1) This paper proposes a route for MEP contractors to improve their piping construction through the Modular and offsite construction (MOC) method. (2) This paper finds that the level of feasibility of piping prefabrication differs in piping systems, connection modes, and types of project. Challenges and barriers of piping prefabrication are firstly identified.
Bioimaging Using Full Field and Contact EUV and SXR Microscopes with Nanometer Spatial Resolution
Authors: Wachulak Przemysław , Torrisi Alfio , Ayele Mesfin , Czwartos Joanna , Bartnik Andrzej , Węgrzyński Łukasz , Fok Tomasz , Parkman Tomáš , Salačová Šárka , Turňová Jana , Odstrčil Michal , Fiedorowicz Henryk
Published: May 2017

We present our recent results, related to nanoscale imaging in the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and soft X-ray (SXR) spectral ranges and demonstrate three novel imaging systems recently developed for the purpose of obtaining high spatial resolution images of nanoscale objects with the EUV and SXR radiations. All the systems are based on laser-plasma EUV and SXR sources, employing a double stream gas puff target. The EUV and SXR full field microscopes—operating at 13.8 nm and 2.88 nm wavelengths, respectively—are currently capable of imaging nanostructures with a sub-50 nm spatial resolution with relatively short (seconds) exposure times. The third system is a SXR contact microscope, operating in the “water-window” spectral range (2.3–4.4 nm wavelength), to produce an imprint of the internal structure of the investigated object in a thin surface layer of SXR light sensitive poly(methyl methacrylate) photoresist. The development of such compact imaging systems is essential to the new research related to biological science, material science, and nanotechnology applications in the near future. Applications of all the microscopes for studies of biological samples including carcinoma cells, diatoms, and neurons are presented. Details about the sources, the microscopes, as well as the imaging results for various objects will be shown and discussed.
Effect of Load Transfer Section to Toughness for Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Han Yoon-Jung , Oh Sang-Keun , Kim Byoungil
Published: May 2017

This study analyzed the correlation between the load transfer properties and the overall toughness in the flexural behavior of steel fiber-reinforced concrete after concrete matrix cracking. Beam specimens with identical aspect ratios were made with three different types of steel fiber, each of which had different properties, and were used for the flexural test. The load displacement graph from the test was divided into sections by behavioral properties, and the regression model by mix was analyzed to extract the correlation between the load transfer section (concrete-fiber) and the overall toughness. The analysis results showed three types of load displacement curve based on the fiber type and fiber content, and confirmed that the load reduction section towards fiber after concrete cracking and the slope and area of the load reascension section had a huge impact on the overall toughness. The regression model of the whole toughness (Tb) was then acquired by proposing the resulting correlation as the load transfer factor (LTF).
Effects of Temperature Variations during Sintering of Metal Ceramic Tooth Prostheses Investigated Non-Destructively with Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Sinescu Cosmin , Bradu Adrian , Duma Virgil-Florin , Topala Florin , Negrutiu Meda , Podoleanu Adrian
Published: May 2017

Calibration loss of ovens used in sintering metal ceramic prostheses leads to stress and cracks in the material of the prostheses fabricated, and ultimately to failure of the dental treatment. Periodic calibration may not be sufficient to prevent such consequences. Evaluation methods based on firing supplemental control samples are subjective, time-consuming, and rely entirely on the technician’s skills. The aim of this study was to propose an alternative procedure for such evaluations. Fifty prostheses were sintered in a ceramic oven at a temperature lower, equal to or larger than the temperature prescribed by the manufacturer. A non-destructive imaging method, swept source (SS) optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to evaluate comparatively the internal structure of prostheses so fabricated. A quantitative assessment procedure is proposed, based on en-face OCT images acquired at similar depths inside the samples. Differences in granulation and reflectivity depending on the oven temperature are used to establish rules-of-thumb on judging the correct calibration of the oven. OCT evaluations made on a regular basis allow an easy and objective monitoring of correct settings in the sintering process. This method can serve rapid identification of the need to recalibrate the oven and avoid producing prostheses with defects.
Construction of Nonblocking Wavelength/Space Switches with AWGs and WSSes
Authors: Lin Bey-Chi , Lea Chin-Tau
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we how to use two technologies, AWG (arrayed-waveguide grating) and WSS (wavelength selective switches), to design nonblocking wavelength/space optical cross connects. An AWG is a passive device and can route multiple wavelengths simultaneously. However, to apply AWGs, there are several issues to consider, including the wavelength conversion range, crosstalk, and switch size constraint. We show a decomposition technique for designing an AWG-based nonblocking wavelength/space switch. The decomposition is carried out in a transformed space network. The new technique is simpler in concept and more flexible in setting switch sizes. We also study another class of wavelength/space switches that are based on WSSes and compare the two approaches in terms of the scalability, switch size constraint, and number of WCs (wavelength converters) required.
Ultrafast Optical Signal Processing with Bragg Structures
Authors: Liu Yikun , Fu Shenhe , Malomed Boris , Khoo Iam , Zhou Jianying
Published: May 2017

The phase, amplitude, speed, and polarization, in addition to many other properties of light, can be modulated by photonic Bragg structures. In conjunction with nonlinearity and quantum effects, a variety of ensuing micro- or nano-photonic applications can be realized. This paper reviews various optical phenomena in several exemplary 1D Bragg gratings. Important examples are resonantly absorbing photonic structures, chirped Bragg grating, and cholesteric liquid crystals; their unique operation capabilities and key issues are considered in detail. These Bragg structures are expected to be used in wide-spread applications involving light field modulations, especially in the rapidly advancing field of ultrafast optical signal processing.
Energy-Efficient Caching for Mobile Edge Computing in 5G Networks
Authors: Luo Zhaohui , LiWang Minghui , Lin Zhijian , Huang Lianfen , Du Xiaojiang , Guizani Mohsen
Published: May 2017

Mobile Edge Computing (MEC), which is considered a promising and emerging paradigm to provide caching capabilities in proximity to mobile devices in 5G networks, enables fast, popular content delivery of delay-sensitive applications at the backhaul capacity of limited mobile networks. Most existing studies focus on cache allocation, mechanism design and coding design for caching. However, grid power supply with fixed power uninterruptedly in support of a MEC server (MECS) is costly and even infeasible, especially when the load changes dynamically over time. In this paper, we investigate the energy consumption of the MECS problem in cellular networks. Given the average download latency constraints, we take the MECS’s energy consumption, backhaul capacities and content popularity distributions into account and formulate a joint optimization framework to minimize the energy consumption of the system. As a complicated joint optimization problem, we apply a genetic algorithm to solve it. Simulation results show that the proposed solution can effectively determine the near-optimal caching placement to obtain better performance in terms of energy efficiency gains compared with conventional caching placement strategies. In particular, it is shown that the proposed scheme can significantly reduce the joint cost when backhaul capacity is low.
Scheduling of Crude Oil Operations in Refinery without Sufficient Charging Tanks Using Petri Nets
Authors: An Yan , Wu NaiQi , Hon Chi , Li ZhiWu
Published: May 2017

A short-term schedule for crude oil operations in a refinery should define and sequence the activities in detail. Each activity involves both discrete-event and continuous variables. The combinatorial nature of the scheduling problem makes it difficult to solve. For such a scheduling problem, charging tanks are a type of critical resources. If the number of charging tanks is not sufficient, the scheduling problem is further complicated. This work conducts a study on the scheduling problem of crude oil operations without sufficient charging tanks. In this case, to make a refinery able to operate, a charging tank has to be in simultaneous charging and feeding to a distiller for some time, called simultaneously-charging-and-feeding (SCF) mode, leading to disturbance to the oil distillation in distillers. A hybrid Petri net model is developed to describe the behavior of the system. Then, a scheduling method is proposed to find a schedule such that the SCF mode is minimally used. It is computationally efficient. An industrial case study is given to demonstrate the obtained results.
Influence of Nanotechnology and the Role of Nanostructures in Biomimetic Studies and Their Potential Applications
Authors: Garg Puneet , Ghatmale Prerana , Tarwadi Kirtan , Chavan Sachin
Published: May 2017

With the advent of nanotechnology, by looking further deep down into the molecular level, today, we are able to understand basic and applied sciences even better than ever before. Not only has nanoscience and nanotechnology allowed us to study the composing structures of materials in detail, it has also allowed us to fabricate and synthesize such nanostructures using top-down and bottom-up approaches. One such field, which has been significantly influenced by the dawn of nanotechnology is biomimetics. With powerful spectroscopic and microscopic tools presenting us with images like double nanostructured pillars on the lotus surface for superhydrophobicity, the conical protuberances of moth eye demonstrating anti-reflection properties and nanostructured spatulae of gecko feet for high adhesivity, we are now able to fabricate these structures in the lab with properties showing close resemblance to their natural counterparts. Here, we present a review of various nanostructures that exist in nature, their fabrication techniques and some of their promising future applications. We hope this review will provide the reader with a basic understanding of what biomimetics is and how nanotechnology has significantly influenced this field.
Towards Targeting PI3K-Dependent Regulation of Gene Expression in Brain Cancer
Authors: Mantamadiotis Theo
Published: May 2017

The PI3K pathway is one of the most highly perturbed cell signaling pathways in human cancer, including the most common malignant brain tumors, gliomas, where either activating mutations of positive pathway effectors or loss/inactivation of pathway inhibitors occurs. Knowledge of the precise transcription factors modulated by PI3K in tumor cells remains elusive but there are numerous PI3K-responsive signaling factors, including kinases, which can activate many transcription factors. In the context of cancer, these transcription factors participate in the regulation of target genes expression networks to support cancer cell characteristics such as survival, proliferation, migration and differentiation. This review focuses on the role of PI3K signaling-regulated transcription in brain cancer cells from a series of recent investigations. A deeper understanding of this regulation is beginning to provide the hope of developing more sophisticated anti-cancer targeting approaches, where both upstream and downstream components of the PI3K pathway may be targeted by existing and novel drugs.
The Power of Non-Hydrolytic Sol-Gel Chemistry: A Review
Authors: Styskalik Ales , Skoda David , Barnes Craig , Pinkas Jiri
Published: May 2017

This review is devoted to non-hydrolytic sol-gel chemistry. During the last 25 years, non-hydrolytic sol-gel (NHSG) techniques were found to be attractive and versatile methods for the preparation of oxide materials. Compared to conventional hydrolytic approaches, the NHSG route allows reaction control at the atomic scale resulting in homogeneous and well defined products. Due to these features and the ability to design specific materials, the products of NHSG reactions have been used in many fields of application. The aim of this review is to present an overview of NHSG research in recent years with an emphasis on the syntheses of mixed oxides, silicates and phosphates. The first part of the review highlights well known condensation reactions with some deeper insights into their mechanism and also presents novel condensation reactions established in NHSG chemistry in recent years. In the second section we discuss porosity control and novel compositions of selected materials. In the last part, the applications of NHSG derived materials as heterogeneous catalysts and supports, luminescent materials and electrode materials in Li-ion batteries are described.
Curvature-Controlled Topological Defects
Authors: Mesarec Luka , Kurioz Pavlo , Iglič Aleš , Góźdź Wojciech , Kralj Samo
Published: May 2017

Effectively, two-dimensional (2D) closed films exhibiting in-plane orientational ordering (ordered shells) might be instrumental for the realization of scaled crystals. In them, ordered shells are expected to play the role of atoms. Furthermore, topological defects (TDs) within them would determine their valence. Namely, bonding among shells within an isotropic liquid matrix could be established via appropriate nano-binders (i.e., linkers) which tend to be attached to the cores of TDs exploiting the defect core replacement mechanism. Consequently, by varying configurations of TDs one could nucleate growth of scaled crystals displaying different symmetries. For this purpose, it is of interest to develop a simple and robust mechanism via which one could control the position and number of TDs in such atoms. In this paper, we use a minimal mesoscopic model, where variational parameters are the 2D curvature tensor and the 2D orientational tensor order parameter. We demonstrate numerically the efficiency of the effective topological defect cancellation mechanism to predict positional assembling of TDs in ordered films characterized by spatially nonhomogeneous Gaussian curvature. Furthermore, we show how one could efficiently switch among qualitatively different structures by using a relative volume v of ordered shells, which represents a relatively simple naturally accessible control parameter.
Extended Defect Propagation in Highly Tensile-Strained Ge Waveguides
Authors: Qi Meng , O’Brien William , Stephenson Chad , Patel Victor , Cao Ning , Thibeault Brian , Schowalter Marco , Rosenauer Andreas , Protasenko Vladimir , Xing Huili , Wistey Mark
Published: May 2017

Tensile-strained Ge is a possible laser material for Si integrated circuits, but reports of lasers using tensile Ge show high threshold current densities and short lifetimes. To study the origins of these shortcomings, Ge ridge waveguides with tensile strain in three dimensions were fabricated using compressive silicon nitride (SiNx) films with up to 2 GPa stress as stress liners. A Raman peak shift of up to 11 cm−1 was observed, corresponding to 3.6% hydrostatic tensile strain for waveguides with a triangular cross-section. Real time degradation in tensile-strained Ge was observed and studied under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A network of defects, resembling dark line defects, was observed to form and propagate with a speed and density strongly correlated with the local strain extracted from both modeled and measured strain profiles. This degradation suggests highly tensile-strained Ge lasers are likely to have significantly shorter lifetime than similar GaAs or InGaAs quantum well lasers.
On the Configurational Entropy of Nanoscale Solutions for More Accurate Surface and Bulk Nano-Thermodynamic Calculations
Authors: Dezso Andras , Kaptay George
Published: May 2017

The configurational entropy of nanoscale solutions is discussed in this paper. As follows from the comparison of the exact equation of Boltzmann and its Stirling approximation (widely used for both macroscale and nanoscale solutions today), the latter significantly over-estimates the former for nano-phases and surface regions. On the other hand, the exact Boltzmann equation cannot be used for practical calculations, as it requires the calculation of the factorial of the number of atoms in a phase, and those factorials are such large numbers that they cannot be handled by commonly used computer codes. Herewith, a correction term is introduced in this paper to replace the Stirling approximation by the so-called “de Moivre approximation”. This new approximation is a continuous function of the number of atoms/molecules and the composition of the nano-solution. This correction becomes negligible for phases larger than 15 nm in diameter. However, the correction term does not cause mathematical difficulties, even if it is used for macro-phases. Using this correction, future nano-thermodynamic calculations will become more precise. Equations are worked out for both integral and partial configurational entropies of multi-component nano-solutions. The equations are correct only for nano-solutions, which contain at least a single atom of each component (below this concentration, there is no sense to make any calculations).
Deriving Proper Uniform Priors for Regression Coefficients, Parts I, II, and III
Authors: Erp H.R. , Linger Ronald. , Gelder Pieter
Published: May 2017

It is a relatively well-known fact that in problems of Bayesian model selection, improper priors should, in general, be avoided. In this paper we will derive and discuss a collection of four proper uniform priors which lie on an ascending scale of informativeness. It will turn out that these priors lead us to evidences that are closely associated with the implied evidence of the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC). All the discussed evidences are then used in two small Monte Carlo studies, wherein for different sample sizes and noise levels the evidences are used to select between competing C-spline regression models. Also, there is given, for illustrative purposes, an outline on how to construct simple trivariate C-spline regression models. In regards to the length of this paper, only one half of this paper consists of theory and derivations, the other half consists of graphs and outputs of the two Monte Carlo studies.
Impact of Vibration on the Surface Film of Lithium-Ion Cells
Authors: Somerville Limhi , Hooper James , Marco James , McGordon Andrew , Lyness Chris , Walker Marc , Jennings Paul
Published: May 2017

Cylindrical 18650-type lithium-ion cells are being utilized more often for automotive applications. This introduces error in calculating expected lifetime due to varied usage conditions accelerating or reducing material damage. One such usage condition is vibration, which has been shown to impact the electrical performance over extended periods. Within this study X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) has been performed on nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) cells subjected to vibration. This study found that vibration causes the removal of the selectively-formed surface film created during a cell’s first cycles and replaces it with the surface film from electrolyte decomposition. The surface films formed by vibration are composed of much higher concentrations of organic electrolyte decomposition products than the film from the control cell. The impact of this chemical mechanism is an increased level of cell degradation. This is exhibited in increased capacity fade and cell impedance. This is the first study presented within the academic literature which has identified an electro-mechanical mechanism responsible for the performance degradation in lithium-ion cells from vibration.
Damping Force Modeling and Suppression of Self-Excited Vibration due to Magnetic Fluids Applied in the Torque Motor of a Hydraulic Servovalve
Authors: Zhang Wei , Peng Jinghui , Li Songjing
Published: May 2017

As a key component of hydraulic control systems, hydraulic servovalves influence their performance significantly. Unpredictable self-excited noise inside hydraulic servovalves may cause instability and even failure. Being functional, with higher saturation magnetization and increased viscosity when exposed to a magnetic field, magnetic fluids (MFs) have been widely used in dampers, sealing, and biomedical treatment. In this paper, magnetic fluids are applied in the torque motor of a hydraulic servovalve to exert damping and resistance for vibration and noise suppression. Construction of the torque motor armature with magnetic fluids is introduced and the forces due to magnetic fluids on the torque motor armature are studied. Based on a bi-viscosity-constituted relationship, a mathematical model of the damping force from magnetic fluids is built when magnetic fluids are filled in the working gaps of the torque motor. Measurements of the properties of an Fe3O4 composite magnetic fluid are carried out to calculate the parameters of this mathematical model and to investigate the influence of magnetic fluids on the vibration characteristics of the armature assembly. The simulated and tested harmonic responses of the armature with and without magnetic fluids show the good suppression effects of magnetic fluids on the self-excited noise inside the servovalve.
Control Method Based on Demand Response Needs of Isolated Bus Regulation with Series-Resonant Converters for Residential Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Zhang Shu-Huai , Luo Feng-Zhang , Wang Yi-Feng , Liu Jiang-Hua , He Yong-Peng , Dong Yue
Published: May 2017

Considering the effects of isolation and high efficiency, a series-resonant DC-DC converter (L-L-C type, with two inductors and a capacitor) has been introduced into a residential photovoltaic (PV) generation and storage system in this work, and a voltage gain curve upwarp drifting problem was found. In this paper, the reason of upwarp drifting in the voltage gain curve is given, and a new changing topological control method to solve the voltage regulation problem under light load conditions is proposed. Firstly, the ideal and actual first harmonic approximation (FHA) models are given, and this drifting problem is ascribed to the multiple peaks of higher-order resonance between resonant tank and parasitic capacitors. Then the paper presents the pulse-frequency-modulation (PFM) driver signals control method to translate the full-bridge LLC into a half-bridge LLC converter, and with this method the voltage gain could easily be reduced by half. Based on this method, the whole voltage and resonant current sharing control methods in on-line and off-line mode are proposed. The parameters design and optimization methods are also discussed in detail. Finally, a residential PV system platform based on the proposed parallel 7-kW full-bridge LLC converter is built to verify the proposed control method and theoretical analysis.