bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Reflective Augmented Reality Integral Imaging 3D Display by Using a Mirror-Based Pinhole Array
Authors: Li Qiang , Deng Huan , Pang Senlin , Jiang Wenhao , Wang Qionghua
Published: August 2019

In this paper, we propose a reflective augmented reality (AR) display system based on integral imaging (II) using a mirror-based pinhole array (MBPA). The MBPA, obtained by punching pinholes on a mirror, functions as a three-dimensional (3D) imaging device, as well as an image combiner. The pinhole array of MBPA can realize a pinhole array-based II display, while the mirror of MBPA can image the real objects, so as to combine the images of the real objects with the reconstructed 3D images. The structure of the proposed reflective AR display is very simple, and only a projection system or a two-dimensional display screen is needed to combine with the MBPA. In our experiment, a 25cm × 14cm sized AR display was built up, a combination of a 3D virtual image and a real 3D object was presented by the proposed AR 3D display. The proposed device could realize an AR display of large size due to its compact form factor and low weight.
Numerical Calculation Method of Deflection Deformation of Rice Stalk
Authors: Huang Mingsen , Li Yaoming , Chen Anya , Xu Lizhang
Published: August 2019

This paper deals with the numerical calculation method of deflection deformation of rice stalks. Due to large deflection of rice stalks caused by reel operation, it is improper to adopt the conventional formula that is usually used in small deflection calculation to fit rice stalk deformation curves. Therefore, a large deflection calculation formula in combination with Simpson’s formula was utilized to compute flexural rigidity (EI) and to fit curves. The experiments were conducted under different loads (0.03, 0.04, 0.05, 0.06, and 0.07 N) on a self-established deflection testing rig to verify this method. As a result, the measured results corresponded considerably to ones predicted by this method; furthermore, the flexural rigidity was maintained at a stable level under different loads. This study can provide the basis for establishing a complete deformation model of rice plant and can also be applied in deflection calculation of other stalk crops.
Characteristics of Spherical Organic Particles Emitted from Fixed-Bed Residential Coal Combustion
Authors: Makonese Tafadzwa , Meyer Johan , von Solms Sune
Published: August 2019

Residential coal combustion is one of the most significant sources of carbonaceous aerosols in the Highveld region of South Africa, significantly affecting the local and regional climate. This study investigated single coal-burning particles emitted when using different fire-ignition techniques (top-lit up-draft versus bottom-lit up-draft) and air ventilation rates (defined by the number of air holes above and below the fire grate) in selected informal braziers. Aerosol samples were collected on nucleopore filters at the Sustainable Energy Technology and Research Centre Laboratory, University of Johannesburg. The individual particles (~700) were investigated using a scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Two distinct forms of spherical organic particles (SOPs) were identified, one less oxidized than the other. The particles were further classified into electronically dark and bright. The EDX analysis showed that 70% of the dark spherical organic particles had higher (~60%) relative oxygen content than in the bright SOPs. The morphology of spherical organic particles were quantified and classified into four categories: ~50% were bare single particles; ~35% particles were aggregated and formed diffusion accretion chains; 10% had inclusions, and 5% were deformed due to impaction on filter material during sampling. This study concludes that there are two distinct kinds of coal burning spherical organic particles and that dark SOPs are less volatile than bright SOPs. The authors also show that these spherical organic particles are similar in nature and characteristics to tar balls observed in biomass combustion and that they have the potential to absorb sunlight thereby affecting the earth’s radiative budget and climate. This study provides insights into the mixing states, morphology, and possible formation mechanisms of these organic particles from residential coal combustion in informal stoves.
IonoSeis: A Package to Model Coseismic Ionospheric Disturbances
Authors: Mikesell Thomas , Rolland Lucie , Lee Rebekah , Zedek Florian , Coïsson Pierdavide , Dessa Jean-Xavier
Published: August 2019

We present the framework of the modeling package IonoSeis. This software models Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) derived slant total electron content (sTEC) perturbations in the ionosphere due to the interaction of the neutral atmosphere and charged particles in the ionosphere. We use a simplified model to couple the neutral particle momentum into the ionosphere and reconstruct time series of sTEC perturbations that match observed data in both arrival time and perturbation shape. We propagate neutral atmosphere disturbances to ionospheric heights using a three-dimensional ray-tracing code in spherical coordinates called Windy Atmospheric Sonic Propagation (WASP3D), which works for a stationary or non-stationary atmospheric models. The source of the atmosphere perturbation can be an earthquake or volcanic eruption; both couple significant amounts of energy into the atmosphere in the frequency range of a few Millihertz. We demonstrate the output of the code by comparing modeled sTEC perturbation data to the observed perturbation recorded at GNSS station BTNG (Bitung, Indonesia) immediately following the 28 September 2018, Sulawesi-Palu earthquake. With this framework, we provide a software to couple the lithosphere, atmosphere, and ionosphere that can be used to study post-seismic ionospherically-derived signals.
The Spatial–Temporal Variation of Tropospheric NO2 over China during 2005 to 2018
Authors: Wang Chunjiao , Wang Ting , Wang Pucai
Published: August 2019

In recent years, new and strict air quality regulations have been implemented in China. Therefore, it is of great significance to evaluate the current air pollution situation and effectiveness of actions. In this study, Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) satellite data were used to detect the spatiotemporal characteristics of tropospheric NO2 columns over China from 2005 to 2018, including spatial distribution, seasonal cycles and long-term trends. The averaged NO2 pollution is higher in southeastern China and lower in the northwest, which are well delineated by the Heihe–Tengchong line. Furthermore, the NO2 loadings are highest in the North China Plain, with vertical column density (VCD) exceeding 13 × 1015 molec cm−2. Regarding the seasonal cycle, the NO2 loadings in eastern China is highest in winter and lowest in summer, while the western region shows the opposite feature. The amplitude of annual range increase gradually from the south to the north. If the entire period of 2005–2018 is taken into account, China has experienced little change in NO2. In fact, however, there appears to be significant trends of an increase followed by a downward tendency, with the turning point in the year 2012. In the former episode of 2005–2012, increasing trends overwhelm nearly the whole nation, especially in the Jing–Jin–Tang region, Shandong Province, and Northern Henan and Southern Hebei combined regions, where the rising rates were as high as 1.0–1.8 × 1015 molec cm−2 year−1. In contrast, the latter episode of 2013–2018 features remarkable declines in NO2 columns over China. Particularly, the regions where the decreased degree was remarkable in 2013–2018 were consistent with the regions where the upward trend was obvious in 2005–2012. Overall, this upward–downward pattern is true for most parts of China. However, some of the largest metropolises, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, witnessed a continuous decrease in the NO2 amounts, indicating earlier and more stringent measures adopted in these areas. Finally, it can be concluded that China’s recent efforts to cut NO2 pollution are successful, especially in mega cities.
Thermal and Non-Thermal Physical Methods for Improving Polyphenol Extraction in Red Winemaking
Authors: Maza Marcos , Álvarez Ignacio , Raso Javier
Published: August 2019

Maceration-fermentation is a critical stage in the elaboration of high-quality red wine. During this stage, the solid parts of the grape berries remain in contact with the fermenting must in order to extract polyphenols mainly located in the grape skin cells. Extracted polyphenols have a considerable impact on sensory properties (color, flavor, astringency, and bitterness) and on the aging behavior of red wine. In order to obtain wines with a sufficient proportion of those compounds, long maceration times are required. The presence of the solid parts of the grapes during red wine fermentation involves several problems for the wineries such as production capacity reduction, higher energy consumption for controlling the fermentation temperature and labor and energy consumption for periodically pump the grape must over the skin mass. Physical techniques based on heating such as thermovinification and flash expansion are currently being applied in wineries to improve the extraction of polyphenols and to reduce maceration time. However, these techniques present a series of problems derived from the heating of the grapes that affect wine quality. A series of recent studies have demonstrated that non-thermal innovative technologies such as pulsed electric fields (PEF) and ultrasound may represent effective alternatives to heating for assisting polyphenol extraction. In terms of general product quality and energetic requirements, this review compares these thermal and non-thermal physical technologies that aim to reduce maceration time.
Waste Seashells as a Highly Active Catalyst for Cyclopentanone Self-Aldol Condensation
Authors: Sheng Xueru , Xu Qianqian , Wang Xing , Li Na , Jia Haiyuan , Shi Haiqiang , Niu Meihong , Zhang Jian , Ping Qingwei
Published: August 2019

For the first time, waste-seashell-derived CaO catalysts were used as high-performance solid base catalysts for cyclopentanone self-condensation, which is an important reaction in bio-jet fuel or perfume precursor synthesis. Among the investigated seashell-derived catalysts, Scapharca Broughtonii-derived CaO catalyst (S-shell-750) exhibited the highest dimer yield (92.1%), which was comparable with commercial CaO (88.2%). The activity sequence of different catalysts was consistent with the CaO purity sequence and contact angle sequence. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that CaCO3 in waste shell were completely converted to CaO after calcination at 750 °C or above for 4 h. CO2 temperature-programmed desorption (CO2-TPD) results indicate that both the amount and strength of base sites increase significantly when the calcination temperature climbs to 750 °C. Therefore, we can attribute the excellent performance of S-shell-750/850/950 catalysts to the higher CaO content, relatively low hydrophilicity, and stronger acidity and basicity of this catalyst. This study developed a new route for waste shell utilization in bio-derived ketone aldol condensation.
Keratin 6, 16 and 17—Critical Barrier Alarmin Molecules in Skin Wounds and Psoriasis
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Yin Meimei , Zhang Ling-juan
Published: August 2019

Located at the skin surface, keratinocytes (KCs) are constantly exposed to external stimuli and are the first responders to invading pathogens and injury. Upon skin injury, activated KCs secrete an array of alarmin molecules, providing a rapid and specific innate immune response against danger signals. However, dysregulation of the innate immune response of KCs may lead to uncontrolled inflammation and psoriasis pathogenesis. Keratins (KRT) are the major structural intermediate filament proteins in KCs and are expressed in a highly specific pattern at different differentiation stages of KCs. While KRT14-KRT5 is restricted to basal proliferative KCs, and KRT10-KRT1 is restricted to suprabasal differentiated KCs in normal skin epidermis, the wound proximal KCs downregulate KRT10-K1 and upregulate KRT16/KRT17-KRT6 upon skin injury. Recent studies have recognized KRT6/16/17 as key early barrier alarmins and upregulation of these keratins alters proliferation, cell adhesion, migration and inflammatory features of KCs, contributing to hyperproliferation and innate immune activation of KCs in response to an epidermal barrier breach, followed by the autoimmune activation of T cells that drives psoriasis. Here, we have reviewed how keratins are dysregulated during skin injury, their roles in wound repairs and in initiating the innate immune system and the subsequent autoimmune amplification that arises in psoriasis.
Sprouty3 and Sprouty4, Two Members of a Family Known to Inhibit FGF-Mediated Signaling, Exert Opposing Roles on Proliferation and Migration of Glioblastoma-Derived Cells
Authors: Celik-Selvi Burcu Emine , Stütz Astrid , Mayer Christoph-Erik , Salhi Jihen , Siegwart Gerald , Sutterlüty Hedwig
Published: August 2019

Dysregulation of receptor tyrosine kinase-induced pathways is a critical step driving the oncogenic potential of brain cancer. In this study, we investigated the role of two members of the Sprouty (Spry) family in brain cancer-derived cell lines. Using immunoblot analyses we found essential differences in the pattern of endogenous Spry3 and Spry4 expression. While Spry4 expression was mitogen-dependent and repressed in a number of cells from higher malignant brain cancers, Spry3 levels neither fluctuated in response to serum withdrawal nor were repressed in glioblastoma (GBM)-derived cell lines. In accordance to the well-known inhibitory role of Spry proteins in fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-mediated signaling, both Spry proteins were able to interfere with FGF-induced activation of the MAPK pathway although to a different extent. In response to serum solely, Spry4 exerts its role as a negative regulator of MAPK activation. Ectopic expression of Spry4 inhibited proliferation and migration of GBM-originated cells, positioning it as a tumor suppressor in brain cancer. In contrast, elevated Spry3 levels accelerated both proliferation and migration of these cell lines, while repression of Spry3 levels using shRNA caused a significant diminished growth and migration velocity rate of a GBM-derived cell line. This argues for a tumor-promoting function of Spry3 in GBMs. Based on these data we conclude that Spry3 and Spry4 fulfill different if not opposing roles within the cancerogenesis of brain malignancies.
TUBB4B Downregulation Is Critical for Increasing Migration of Metastatic Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Sobierajska Katarzyna , Ciszewski Wojciech M. , Wawro Marta E. , Wieczorek-Szukała Katarzyna , Boncela Joanna , Papiewska-Pajak Izabela , Niewiarowska Jolanta , Kowalska M. Anna
Published: August 2019

Tumor metastasis, the major problem for clinical oncology in colon cancer treatment, is linked with an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). The observed cellular transformation in this process is manifested by cell elongation, enhanced cell migration and invasion ability, coordinated by cytoskeleton reorganization. In the present study, we examined the role of tubulin-β4 (TUBB4B) downregulation that occurs during EMT in colon cancer cells, in the modulation of the function of microtubules. Based on biochemical and behavioral analysis (transmigration) we posit that the decrease of the TUBB4B level is critical for microtubule-vimentin interaction and contributes to the maintenance of polarity in migrating cells. The microscopic studies revealed that TUBB4B decrease is accompanied by cell elongation and increased number of matured focal adhesion sites, which is a characteristic of the cell metastatic stage. We also demonstrated faster polymerization of microtubules in cells with a lower level of TUBB4B. Simultaneous TUBB3 upregulation, reported during EMT, acts additively in this process. Our studies suggest that the protein level of TUBB4B could be used as a marker for detection of the preinvasive stages of the colon cancer cells. We also concluded that chemotherapy enriched to increase TUBB4B level and/or to stabilize microtubule polymerization might more effectively prevent metastasis in colon cancer development.
Clues to Non-Invasive Implantation Window Monitoring: Isolation and Characterisation of Endometrial Exosomes
Authors: Luddi Alice , Zarovni Natasa , Maltinti Erika , Governini Laura , De Leo Vincenzo , Cappelli Valentina , Quintero Luis , Paccagnini Eugenio , Loria Francesca , Piomboni Paola
Published: August 2019

Despite the significant advances in the last decades, low implantation rate per transferred embryo still remains a major concern in assisted reproductive techniques, highlighting a need to better characterize endometrial receptivity also by mean of specific biomarkers. Based on physiology and on the intimate contact with endometrium as the tissue of interest, in this study we developed and validated an optimized protocol that uses extracellular vesicles (EVs) recovered from uterine flushings and from a cervical brush, the latter never used until now as an EVs source, as surrogates for endometrial biopsies. This method combines the safety of sampling with the ability to study the expression profile across the uterine cycle. We have compared the yield and composition of EVs recovered from different biofluids samples and fractions thereof, opting for chemical precipitation as the EV isolation procedure, assuring the highest yield without introducing any bias in specific EV recovery. Moreover, collected EVs, in particular exosome-like vesicles, express putative endometrial markers, such as glycodelin A and receptors for estrogen and progesterone, thus confirming their endometrial origin. We also identified uterine flushing EVs, in particular those recovered from its mucous fraction, as the richest source of endometrial transcripts, likely correlated to cellular (epithelial) origin of these vesicles. Finally, our pilot quantitative assessment of three endometrial gene profiles, in samples collected at different time points along the luteal phase, revealed the fluctuations apparently recapitulating gene expression variability prior reported during the menstrual cycle. Unlike tissue biopsy that is subjected to inter- and intra-sample differences, our data suggest that EVs from liquid biopsies (from uterine flushings and a cervical brush) obtained through less-invasive procedures, can be substrate to detect and track the tissue representative expression profiles, better depicting the total endometrium complexity.
The Influence of Kinematic Conditions and Variations in Component Positioning on the Severity of Edge Loading and Wear of Ceramic-on-Ceramic Hip Bearings
Authors: Ali Murat , Al-Hajjar Mazen , Fisher John , Jennings Louise M.
Published: August 2019

Dynamic separation and direct edge loading of hip replacement bearings can be caused by many factors, including implant positioning, implant design, changes in device over time, surgical variations and patient variations. Such dynamic separation and direct edge loading can lead to increased wear. Different input kinematic conditions have been used for experimental hip simulator studies to produce clinically relevant elliptical contact wear paths between the bearings during gait. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of input kinematics (two axes of rotation simulation conditions (without abduction/adduction) and three axes of rotation simulation conditions (with abduction/adduction and different loading profiles) and variations in component positioning (different levels of medial-lateral translational mismatch at standard and steep cup inclination angles) on the occurrence, severity of edge loading, dynamic separation and wear of size 36 mm ceramic-on-ceramic hip bearings on an electromechanical hip joint simulator. The results showed that, overall, either of the two axes or three axes input profiles were equally valid in providing a suitable preclinical testing method for assessing the occurrence and severity of edge loading and wear under edge loading conditions. In terms of component positioning, as cup inclination and medial-lateral translational mismatch increased, so did dynamic separation, axial load at the rim, severity of edge loading and wear.
Comparing Standardized and Parent-Reported Motor Outcomes of Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: Morgan-Feir Maeve , Abbott Andrea , Synnes Anne , Creighton Dianne , Pillay Thevanisha , Zwicker Jill
Published: August 2019

Extremely preterm infants are at increased risk of motor impairment. The Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network (CNFUN) afforded an opportunity to study the outcomes of extremely preterm children. The purpose of this study was to compare 18-month corrected age (CA) motor outcomes of extremely preterm infants with parent-reported functional outcomes at 3 years CA. CNFUN data of 1376 infants were used to conduct chi-square analyses to compare Bayley-III motor scores (composite, gross, and fine motor) at 18 months CA with parent-reported Ages and Stages Questionnaire motor scores (gross and fine motor) at 3 years CA. The correlation of motor scores at 18-months CA with parent-reported gross and fine motor scores at 3 years CA was also examined. We found that 1 in 5 infants scoring within or above the average range on the Bayley-III had parent-reported functional fine and gross motor difficulties at 3 years CA. Bayley-III scores were only moderately correlated with functional motor outcomes. Results of the study suggest that the Bayley-III at 18 months CA was able to detect the majority of infants with motor problems, but not all; therefore, ongoing follow-up of extremely preterm infants is required. The Bayley-III motor composite score has greater clinical utility compared to sub-scale scores.
A Simple Strategy to Reduce the NDZ Caused by the Parallel Operation of DER-Inverters
Authors: Voglitsis Dionisis , Valsamas Fotis , Papanikolaou Nick , Tsimtsios Aristotelis , Perpinias Ioannis , Korkas Christos
Published: August 2019

In this work the harmonic injection active anti-islanding technique that has been recently proposed in reference Voglitsis et al. (2018) published in Trans. Power Electron. is generalized under the prospect of a high penetration level of distributed energy resource (DER) installations. Towards this direction, the theoretical limitation for the penetration level of such schemes is investigated and a firm theoretical background is presented that takes into account the installation parameters, as well as the penetration level at the installation common coupling point. Furthermore, a substantial feature which indicates the upgrade-ability of each installation is studied. Finally, extensive simulations and experiments verify the theoretical analysis.
Electrochemical Obtaining and Corrosion Behavior of Zinc-Polyaniline (Zn-PANI) Hybrid Coatings
Authors: Boshkova Nelly , Tabakova Nadezhda , Atanassova Genoveva , Boshkov Nikolai
Published: August 2019

Hybrid zinc-based coatings with embedded polyaniline (PANI) particles in the metal matrix are obtained in a one-step process via electrodeposition on low-carbon steel plates. The aim is directly to use the inhibitor properties of polyaniline for improved protection against corrosion in chloride containing medium (5% NaCl solution). PANI-particles (concentration of 0.025 g/L) are added to the starting zinc electrolyte in dispersed form—the latter being obtained via oxidation polymerization in the presence of stabilizers (polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) or colloidal SiO2). Electrodeposition conditions are equal to those for obtaining an ordinary zinc coating. The surface morphology of the hybrid coatings before and after corrosion treatment in the model medium is characterized with SEM. The influence of the incorporated PANI/PVP- or PANI/SiO2-particles on the protective properties of the coatings is evaluated by the application of electrochemical (potentiodynamic polarization, open-circuit potential, polarization resistance, cyclic voltammetry) as well as X-ray based (X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) methods. A discussion and some conclusions about the reasons for the improved corrosion resistance and protective ability of the hybrid coatings in that model medium are proposed.
Impact of Selected Cosmetic Ingredients on Common Microorganisms of Healthy Human Skin
Authors: Dobler Dorota , Schmidts Thomas , Wildenhain Sören , Seewald Ilona , Merzhäuser Michael , Runkel Frank
Published: August 2019

Human skin is a complex ecosystem and is host to a large number of microorganisms. When the bacterial ecosystem is balanced and differentiated, skin remains healthy. However, the use of cosmetics can change this balance and promote the appearance of skin diseases. The skin’s microorganisms can utilize some cosmetic components, which either promote their growth, or produce metabolites that influence the skin environment. In this study, we tested the ability of the Malassezia species and some bacterial strains to assimilate substances frequently used in dermal formulations. The growth capability of microorganisms was determined and their lipase activity was analyzed. The growth of all Malassezia spp. in the presence of free acids, free acid esters, and fatty alcohols with a fatty chain length above 12 carbon atoms was observed. No growth was observed in the presence of fatty alcohol ethers, secondary fatty alcohols, paraffin- and silicon-based substances, polymers, polyethylene glycols, quaternary ammonium salts, hydroxy fatty acid esters, or fatty acids and fatty acid esters with a fatty chain length shorter than 12 carbon atoms. The hydrolysis of esters by Malassezia lipases was detected using High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). The production of free fatty acids as well as fatty alcohols was observed. The growth promotion or inhibition of bacterial strains was only found in the presence of a few ingredients. Based on these results, formulations containing microbiome inert ingredients were developed.
Monte Carlo Optical Simulations of a Small FoV Gamma Camera. Effect of Scintillator Thicknesses and Septa Materials
Authors: Ricci Rita , Kostou Theodora , Chatzipapas Konstantinos , Fysikopoulos Eleftherios , Loudos George , Montalto Luigi , Scalise Lorenzo , Rinaldi Daniele , David Stratos
Published: August 2019

Optical Monte Carlo simulations have been extensively used for the accurate modeling of light transport in scintillators for the improvement of detector designs. In the present work, a GATE Monte Carlo toolkit was used to study the effect of scintillator thicknesses and septa materials in the performance parameters evaluation of a commercially available small animal gamma-optical camera, named “γ-eye”. Firstly, the simulated γ-eye system was validated against experimental data. Then, part of the validated camera was modeled defining all of the optical properties by means of the UNIFIED model of GATE. Different CsI:Na scintillator crystals with varying thicknesses (from 4 mm up to 6 mm) and different reflector (septa) materials were simulated and compared in terms of sensitivity, light output and spatial resolution. Results have demonstrated the reliability of the model and indicate that the thicker crystal array presents higher sensitivity values, but degraded spatial resolution properties. Moreover, the use of black tape around crystals leads to an improvement in spatial resolution values compared to a standard white reflector material.
Dynamic Data Citation Service—Subset Tool for Operational Data Management
Authors: Schubert Chris , Seyerl Georg , Sack Katharina
Published: August 2019

In earth observation and climatological sciences, data and their data services grow on a daily basis in a large spatial extent due to the high coverage rate of satellite sensors, model calculations, but also by continuous meteorological in situ observations. In order to reuse such data, especially data fragments as well as their data services in a collaborative and reproducible manner by citing the origin source, data analysts, e.g., researchers or impact modelers, need a possibility to identify the exact version, precise time information, parameter, and names of the dataset used. A manual process would make the citation of data fragments as a subset of an entire dataset rather complex and imprecise to obtain. Data in climate research are in most cases multidimensional, structured grid data that can change partially over time. The citation of such evolving content requires the approach of “dynamic data citation”. The applied approach is based on associating queries with persistent identifiers. These queries contain the subsetting parameters, e.g., the spatial coordinates of the desired study area or the time frame with a start and end date, which are automatically included in the metadata of the newly generated subset and thus represent the information about the data history, the data provenance, which has to be established in data repository ecosystems. The Research Data Alliance Data Citation Working Group (RDA Data Citation WG) summarized the scientific status quo as well as the state of the art from existing citation and data management concepts and developed the scalable dynamic data citation methodology of evolving data. The Data Centre at the Climate Change Centre Austria (CCCA) has implemented the given recommendations and offers since 2017 an operational service on dynamic data citation on climate scenario data. With the consciousness that the objective of this topic brings a lot of dependencies on bibliographic citation research which is still under discussion, the CCCA service on Dynamic Data Citation focused on the climate domain specific issues, like characteristics of data, formats, software environment, and usage behavior. The current effort beyond spreading made experiences will be the scalability of the implementation, e.g., towards the potential of an Open Data Cube solution.
A High-Resolution Map of Singapore’s Terrestrial Ecosystems
Authors: Gaw Leon Yan-Feng , Yee Alex Thiam Koon , Richards Daniel Rex
Published: August 2019

The natural and semi-natural areas within cities provide important refuges for biodiversity, as well as many benefits to people. To study urban ecology and quantify the benefits of urban ecosystems, we need to understand the spatial extent and configuration of different types of vegetated cover within a city. It is challenging to map urban ecosystems because they are typically small and highly fragmented; thus requiring high resolution satellite images. This article describes a new high-resolution map of land cover for the tropical city-state of Singapore. We used images from WorldView and QuickBird satellites, and classified these images using random forest machine learning and supplementary datasets into 12 terrestrial land classes. Close to 50 % of Singapore’s land cover is vegetated while freshwater fills about 6 %, and the rest is bare or built up. The overall accuracy of the map was 79 % and the class-specific errors are described in detail. Tropical regions such as Singapore have a lot of cloud cover year-round, complicating the process of mapping using satellite imagery. The land cover map provided here will have applications for urban biodiversity studies, ecosystem service quantification, and natural capital assessment.
A Critical Review of Modern Concepts for Teeth Whitening
Authors: Epple Matthias , Meyer Frederic , Enax Joachim
Published: August 2019

Besides prevention of caries and periodontitis, an increasing number of oral care products focus on teeth whitening. The aim of this review is to summarize and discuss frequently used whitening agents and their efficacy from a chemical viewpoint. Therefore, a comprehensive literature survey on teeth whitening agents and products was conducted. The current whitening methods are analyzed and discussed from a chemist’s viewpoint. Frequently used whitening agents are abrasives (mechanical removal of stains), antiredeposition agents (prevention of deposition of chromophores), colorants (intended to lead to a white color), proteases (degradation of proteins), peroxides (oxidation of organic chromophores), and surfactants (removal of hydrophobic compounds from tooth surface). In-office bleaching using peroxides is effective, but side effects like tooth sensitivity or a damage of the natural organic matrix of enamel and dentin may occur. The applicability of abrasives in teeth whitening is limited due to potential tooth wear, especially when toothpastes with high RDA values are used. The effect of other whitening agents in vivo is often unclear because of a shortage of placebo-controlled clinical trials.
Energy Efficiency Optimization for Massive MIMO Non-Orthogonal Unicast and Multicast Transmission with Statistical CSI
Authors: Wang Wenjin , Huang Yufei , You Li , Xiong Jiayuan , Li Jiamin , Gao Xiqi
Published: August 2019

We study the energy efficiency (EE) optimization problem in non-orthogonal unicast and multicast transmission for massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems with statistical channel state information of all receivers available at the transmitter. Firstly, we formulate the EE maximization problem. We reduce the number of variables to be solved and simplify this large-dimensional-matrix-valued problem into a real-vector-valued problem. Next, we lower the computational complexity significantly by replacing the objective with its deterministic equivalent to avoid the high-complex expectation operation. With guaranteed convergence, we propose an iterative algorithm on beam domain power allocation using the minorize maximize algorithm and Dinkelbach’s transform and derive the locally optimal power allocation strategy to achieve the optimal EE. Finally, we illustrate the significant EE performance gain of our EE maximization algorithm compared with the conventional approach through conducting numerical simulations.
EU Carbon Emissions Market Development and Its Impact on Penetration of Renewables in the Power Sector
Authors: Rabe Marcin , Streimikiene Dalia , Bilan Yuriy
Published: August 2019

This paper focuses on the analysis of the EU carbon trading scheme and its impacts on regional power system development and penetration of renewable energy sources (RES). The aim of the article is to analyze the forecasts of carbon dioxide (EUA) prices for the years 2019–2030 and to apply the results of this forecast in regional power system planning. The data employed in this paper come from many sources, including empirical data of the selected analytical companies, such as Thomson Reuters among others. The current low prices for carbon dioxide emission rights do not encourage the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, in particular carbon dioxide, and do not have a significant impact on the penetration of renewables. This paper presents the results of two scenarios (for 2021 and 2030) developed after the analysis of the EUA price impact on penetration of renewable energy sources in West-Pomeranian region assuming different electricity production and the EUA price forecasts. The results of two regional energy development scenarios run for 2021 and 2030 indicate changes in the structure of renewables in West-Pomeranian region. The results also show that the increase of EUA price has a significant impact on the increase of costs for power production and increase of unit cost of the installed 1GWh. In addition, the forecasted EUA price in 2030 is 3% lower as compared with 2021, which has its impact on the increased share of electricity produced by co-firing biomass with other fossil—from 42% to 68% in the electricity generation structure of West-Pomeranian region.
Fundamental Evaluation of Thermal Switch Based on Ionic Wind
Authors: Yoshida Keiichiro
Published: August 2019

A significant amount of thermal energy (mainly under 200 °C) is wasted in the world. To utilize the waste heat, efficient heat management and thermal switching is required. The basic characteristics of a thermal switch that controls the flow of heat by switching on/off the ionic wind is discussed in this study. The study was conducted through experiments and numerical simulations. A heater made of aluminum block maintained at 100 °C was used as a heat source, and the rate of heat flow to a copper plate placed over it was measured. Ionic wind was induced by corona discharge with a needle placed on the heater. The ratio of heat transfer coefficients was obtained in the range of 3–4, with an energy efficiency of around 10. The heat flux at this condition was approximately 400 W/m2. The numerical simulations indicate that the heat transfer is enhanced by ionic winds, and the results were found to corroborate well with the experimental ones.
Electrical Detection of Creeping Discharges over Insulator Surfaces in Atmospheric Gases under AC Voltage Application
Authors: Michelarakis Michail , Widger Phillip , Beroual Abderrahmane , Haddad Abderrahmane (Manu)
Published: August 2019

Creeping discharges over insulator surfaces have been related to the presence of triple junctions in compressed gas insulated systems. The performance of dielectric materials frequently utilised in gaseous insulating high voltage applications, stressed under triple junction conditions, has been an interesting topic approached through many different physical perspectives. Presented research outcomes have contributed to the understanding of the mechanisms behind the related phenomena, macroscopically and microscopically. This paper deals with the electrical detection of creeping discharges over disc-shaped insulator samples of different dielectric materials (polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), epoxy resin and silicone rubber) using atmospheric gases (dry air, N2 and CO2) as insulation medium in a point-plane electrode arrangement and under AC voltage application. The entire approach implementation is described in detail, from the initial numerical field simulations of the electrode configuration to the sensing and recording devices specifications and applications. The obtained results demonstrate the dependence of the generated discharge activity on the geometrical and material properties of the dielectric and the solid/atmospheric gas interface. The current work will be further extended as part of a future extensive research programme.
The Influence of Selected Autochthonous Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains on the Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Narince Wines
Authors: Çelik Zeynep Dilan , Erten Hüseyin , Cabaroglu Turgut
Published: August 2019

Vitis vinifera cv. Narince is a Turkish native white grape variety. In this study, volatile and sensory properties of Narince wines that are produced with autochthonous Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae) strains and commercial strain were compared. Autochthonous yeast strains 1044 (MG017575), 1088 (MG017577), and 1281 (MG017581) were previously isolated from spontaneous fermentations of Narince grapes. Volatile compounds formed in wines were extracted using a liquid–liquid extraction method and determined by GC-MS-FID. All yeast strains fermented Narince grape juice to dryness. The differences between the volatile profiles of the yeast strains were determined. Wines fermented with autochthonous strains 1281 and 1044 produced a higher amount of acetates and ethyl esters. While the highest concentrations of ethyl hexanoate and hexyl acetate were found in wine fermented with 1044, the highest concentrations of ethyl octanoate, ethyl decanoate, isoamyl acetate, and 2-phenylethyl acetate were found in wine fermented with strain 1281. Also, the highest contents of 2-phenyl ethanol and linalool were found in wine fermented with strain 1281. According to sensory analysis, the wine fermented with 1281 achieved the best scores in floral and fruity attributes, as well as balance and global impression. The data obtained in the present study showed that autochthonous yeast strains affect the final physicochemical composition and sensory profile of Narince wines.
Assessment of a New GC-MS/MS System for the Confirmatory Measurement of PCDD/Fs and (N)DL-PCBs in Food under EU Regulation
Authors: Franchina Flavio Antonio , Lazzari Eliane , Scholl George , Focant Jean-François
Published: August 2019

Polychlorodibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychloro-dibenzofurans (PCDFs), dioxin-like (DL), and non dioxin-like (NDL) polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are currently regulated in food and feed within the European territory (EU 2017/644-771). The confirmatory methods of analysis for checking compliance with maximum levels (MLs) for these involve either the historically-established GC-magnetic sector high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC-HRMS) and, more recently, GC-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry operating in tandem mode (GC-QQQMS/MS). In this study, the performance of a novel triple quadrupole GC-QQQMS/MS system equipped with a programable temperature vaporization (PTV) injector was evaluated for the analysis of regulated PCDD/Fs and PCBs in food and feed. The MS analyzer was equipped with a titanium ionization chamber and a new short collision cell capable to accumulate and eject ions by means of very narrow pulses that allow to minimize the noise and to adapt accumulation times for sensitive multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). The analytical capability of the system was confronted by the strict requirements (selectivity, reproducibility, linearity, quant/qual MRM transitions, accuracy, robustness) set by the EU Regulation for a range of standards, quality control (QC) and food/feed samples. In this respect, the approach showed high precision (1.9–15% relative standard deviation (RSD) at low pg/µL) and accuracy (>80%, except for one hexa-CDD). The quantitative results were also compared to the most used GC-HRMS. In this case, comparable results in terms of single congener concentration basis and total toxic equivalent (TEQ) basis for PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs were obtained for the QC samples analyzed.
High Hydrostatic Pressure and Co-Fermentation by Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Gluconacetobacter xylinus Improve Flavor of Yacon-Litchi-Longan Juice
Authors: Chen Huali , Xiao Gengsheng , Xu Yujuan , Yu Yuanshan , Wu Jijun , Zou Bo
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and co-fermentation by Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Gluconacetobacter xylinus on the quality of yacon-litchi-longan (YLL) juice. The carbohydrates, organic acids, free amino acids (FAAs), and volatile compounds in YLL juice were analyzed. Thermal processing (TP) increased the content of total carbohydrates, organic acids and FAAs, and destroyed the aroma components, whereas HHP treatment had a negligible effect. Carbohydrate content was lower, and content of lactic acid, acetic acid, and exopolysaccharide (EPS) were higher in co-fermented juice than in unfermented juice. Furthermore, the content of bitter FAAs in fermented TP and HHP-treated YLL juices decreased by 88.7% and 86.9%, respectively. Co-fermentation also increased ketones and the sum of individual volatile constituents, and improved the overall flavor of juice. Taken together, HHP treatment prior to co-fermentation can be used to improve the quality of YLL juice, especially the flavor thereof.
An Experimental Study of Self-Enforcing Coalitions
Authors: Jandoc Karl , Juarez Ruben
Published: August 2019

We study a model in which agents endowed with power compete for a divisible resource by forming coalitions with other agents. The coalition with the greatest power wins the resource and divides it among its members via proportional sharing. We conduct an economic experiment using this model to investigate possible behavioral factors that may explain deviations from theoretical predictions. The main findings show that agents display rational behavior when forming coalitions, especially when they know that a large proportion of their opponents play myopic strategies from the outset. Over time, however, agents learn to behave more strategically and even more rationally, thus enabling agents to display more of the behavior predicted by the coalition formation model with farsighted agents.
Not Just ‘Once’ upon a Time
Authors: Jarvis Pam
Published: August 2019

Multidisciplinary research indicates the importance of storytelling in child development, most recently exploring the evolved nature of language and narrative. Many questions remain about how children develop competence within such a vital but highly complex process. The ‘once upon a time’ concept is present within nearly every human language on Earth, indicating what a powerful hold ‘storying’ has over human beings and what a central role it plays within human societies. Sue Lyle proposes that human beings are above all, ‘storytelling animals’. Emergent questions include whether and how current mass-produced storytelling products and interactive media developed by Western technology impact children’s competence in the human ‘storying’ process and, in particular, whether such rapid change should be approached with more reflection and caution than is currently the case. In this article, I will consider the process of child development with respect to language and ‘storying’, the traditional role of stories and ‘make-believe’ in the fabric of children’s lives, how this has changed in the recent past in technologically advancing societies, and how such change may impact children’s learning and development.
Deep Splicing Code: Classifying Alternative Splicing Events Using Deep Learning
Authors: Louadi Zakaria , Oubounyt Mhaned , Tayara Hilal , Chong Kil To
Published: August 2019

Alternative splicing (AS) is the process of combining different parts of the pre-mRNA to produce diverse transcripts and eventually different protein products from a single gene. In computational biology field, researchers try to understand AS behavior and regulation using computational models known as “Splicing Codes”. The final goal of these algorithms is to make an in-silico prediction of AS outcome from genomic sequence. Here, we develop a deep learning approach, called Deep Splicing Code (DSC), for categorizing the well-studied classes of AS namely alternatively skipped exons, alternative 5’ss, alternative 3’ss, and constitutively spliced exons based only on the sequence of the exon junctions. The proposed approach significantly improves the prediction and the obtained results reveal that constitutive exons have distinguishable local characteristics from alternatively spliced exons. Using the motif visualization technique, we show that the trained models learned to search for competitive alternative splice sites as well as motifs of important splicing factors with high precision. Thus, the proposed approach greatly expands the opportunities to improve alternative splicing modeling. In addition, a web-server for AS events prediction has been developed based on the proposed method.
Origin of Mélanges of the Franciscan Complex, Diablo Range and Northern California: An Analysis and Review
Authors: Raymond Loren A.
Published: August 2019

The Franciscan Complex of California is characterized in part by the presence of mélanges. In general, mélange origins are attributed to sedimentary, tectonic, or diapiric processes—or a combination of these. Published reviews list the main features of mélanges characteristic of each type of origin. In this review, particular diagnostic features typical of sedimentary, tectonic, and diapiric mélanges are used to assess 15 specific mélanges, which in some cases have been interpreted in contrasting ways in the literature. The data do not support the view that most Franciscan mélanges were formed by sedimentary processes, but rather that both tectonic and sedimentary processes are important. There is little evidence that diapirism contributed significantly to Franciscan mélange genesis. Tectonic features present in most mélanges of subduction accretionary complexes create challenges in assessing mélange-forming processes. Notably, although tectonic overprints commonly mask the primary diagnostic fabric of sedimentary mélanges, some diagnostic features—such as depositional contacts, fossils in mélange matrix, and interlayering of mélange and non-mélange units—are critical to recognition of mélanges of sedimentary origin.