bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overdispersion study of poisson and zero-inflated poisson regression for some characteristics of the data on lamda, n, p
Authors: Rahayu Lili Puspita , Sadik Kusman , Indahwati Indahwati
Published: July 2017

Poisson distribution is one of discrete distribution that is often used in modeling of rare events. The data obtained in form of counts with non-negative integers. One of analysis that is used in modeling count data is Poisson regression. Deviation of assumption that often occurs in the Poisson regression is overdispersion. Cause of overdispersion is an excess zero probability on the response variable. Solving model that be used to overcome of overdispersion is zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) regression. The research aimed to develop a study of overdispersion for Poisson and ZIP regression on some characteristics of the data. Overdispersion on some characteristics of the data that were studied in this research are simulated by combining the parameter of Poisson distribution (λ), zero probability (p), and sample size (n) on the response variable then comparing the Poisson and ZIP regression models. Overdispersion study on data simulation showed that the larger λ, n, and p, the better is the model of ZIP than Poisson regression. The results of this simulation are also strengthened by the exploration of Pearson residual in Poisson and ZIP regression.
Data mapping process to handle semantic data problem on student grading system
Authors: Yunianta Arda , Yusof Norazah , Bramantoro Arif , Haviluddin Haviluddin , Othman Mohd Shahizan , Dengen Nataniel
Published: July 2017

Many applications are developed on education domain. Information and data for each application are stored in distributed locations with different data representations on each database. This situation leads to heterogeneity at the level of integration data. Heterogeneity data may cause many problems. One major issue is about the semantic relationships data among applications on education domain, in which the learning data may have the same name but with a different meaning, or learning data that has a different name with same meaning. This paper discusses on semantic data mapping process to handle semantic relationships problem on education domain. There are two main parts in the semantic data mapping process. The first part is the semantic data mapping engine to produce data mapping language with turtle (.ttl) file format as a standard XML file schema, that can be used for Local Java Application using Jena Library and Triple Store. The Turtle file contains detail information about data schema of every application inside the database system. The second part is to provide D2R Server that can be accessed from outside environment using HTTP Protocol. This can be done using SPARQL Clients, Linked Data Clients (RDF Formats) and HTML Browser. To implement the semantic data process, this paper focuses on the student grading system in the learning environment of education domain. By following the proposed semantic data mapping process, the turtle file format is produced as a result of the first part of the process. Finally, this file is used to be combined and integrated with other turtle files in order to map and link with other data representation of other applications.
Optimization pitch angle controller of rocket system using improved differential evolution algorithm
Authors: Lastomo Dwi , Setiadi Herlambang , Djalal Muhammad Ruswandi
Published: July 2017

Pitch angle of rocket system is the important parts of the rocket. This part corresponds to the movement of the rocket system. Rocket system is fell into multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) system. The most challenge factor in MIMO system is designing the controller, if the design is not appropriate, it may lead to the unstable condition. Hence, appropriate and robust control design is inevitable. This paper introduces PID controller as pitch angle control of rocket system. Furthermore, PID controller parameter is optimized using improved differential evolution algorithm (IDEA). To analyze the performance of rocket system, time domain simulation is implemented. From the simulation result, it is found by using PID controller based on IDEA, the performance of pitch angle of rocket system is enhanced.
La langue de communication et l’autoestimation de la compétence dans le Nord-Est de l’Ontario
Authors: Bouchard Pierre , Girard Mélanie , Laflamme Simon
Published: July 2017

En se penchant sur les jeunes du Nord-Est de l’Ontario selon qu’ils appartiennent à la minorité ou à la majorité linguistique, cet article s’interroge sur trois thématiques interreliées : celle de la perception de la compétence linguistique, celle de l’usage de la langue en fonction des interlocuteurs et celle des représentations culturelles. Après avoir décrit une série d’analyses quantitatives, il conclut : 1) que francophones et anglophones tendent à porter un jugement favorable sur leur aptitude à parler leur propre langue, mais que les francophones se font un peu plus critiques que les anglophones ; 2) que le jeune francophone, en s’éloignant de la sphère familiale, réduit son recours à sa langue maternelle ; 3) que les francophones s’avèrent plus pessimistes à l’égard de la culture française que ne le sont même les anglophones.
Adaptive Coordination Based on Connected Vehicle Technology
Authors: Beak Byungho , Head K. Larry , Feng Yiheng
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a methodology that integrates coordination with adaptive signal control in a connected vehicle environment. The model consists of two levels of optimization. At the intersection level, an adaptive control algorithm allocates the optimal green time to each phase in real time by using dynamic programming that considers coordination constraints. At the corridor level, a mixed-integer linear program is formulated on the basis of data from the intersection level to optimize offsets along the corridor. After the corridor-level algorithm solves the optimization problem, the optimized offsets are sent to the intersection-level algorithm to update the coordination constraints. The model was compared with actuated–coordinated signal control by means of Vissim simulation. The results indicate that the model can reduce average delay and average number of stops for both coordinated routes and the entire network.
Comparison of Driver Navigation at Turbo Roundabouts and Modern Two-Lane Roundabouts: Simulation Study
Authors: Wankogere Elisha Jackson , Kwigizile Valerian , Oh Jun-Seok , Ikonomov Pavel
Published: July 2017

Roundabouts can be a solution to safety concerns common to conventional intersections. Recently in the United States, there has been an increase in the conversion of problematic intersections to roundabouts to improve their safety. However, there are some important considerations and challenges to make roundabouts safe for all users, especially multilane roundabouts. There may also be challenges for drivers to navigate a newly built or a new type of roundabout. Roundabout features such as pavement markings and signage play an important role in driver navigational performance. This research was an effort to evaluate new roundabout design and existing roundabout safety and operational features such as signs and pavement markings. The focus was on how such features influenced the performance of drivers, specifically at multilane roundabouts. Two-lane roundabouts and rotor turbo roundabouts were evaluated. A driving simulator was employed to test various simulation scenarios in a virtual world. The results indicate that lane keeping and higher navigation speeds are still problems at multilane roundabouts. The rotor turbo roundabout outperforms the two-lane roundabout in enabling correct lane choice and navigation speed control by drivers. Furthermore, it was found that roundabout signs and pavement markings used in the United States can be adopted for turbo roundabouts.
Parental line selection for yield contributing character of rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Bhuiyan MSH , Malek MA , Ikbal MF , Topu A , Alam ABMS
Published: July 2017

The prime objective of any hybrid program is to bring the desirable genes present in the parent into a single genetic background. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the parental performance at the experimental farm of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University. Nine A (male sterile) lines and Four R (restoral) lines were used here. To consider their performance various agronomic trait was selected and most emphasis was provide for plant height, days to maturity and other yield contributing character. The characters studied in this investigation exhibited low to moderate range of variability and heritability. Out of all RGBU0014A perform the height days to maturity then others. Although yield is more or less similar for the restorer parent, but considering other agronomic yield contributing trait RGBU003A, RGBU002A, RGBU009A can be selected to cross with superior restoral SL8 R and Mitali R to obtain ideal plant type.Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 7 (1): 46-50, June, 2017
Culture of Chlorella ellipsoidea in different culture media
Authors: Mohshina MM , Shahjahan M , Chowdhury P , Rahman MS
Published: July 2017

An experiment of algal culture was conducted in natural light and temperature conditions at a balcony of a room at the 2nd floor of Fisheries Faculty Building facing the north. The experiment was done to evaluate the growth of Chlorella ellipsoidea in four different media, viz, medium I (inorganic), medium II (organic, whole pulse powder extract), medium III (organic, whole lentil powder extract) and medium IV (organic, whole gram powder extract) under natural environment conditions during January-June, 2015. Growth rates of the algal species in four different media were found not significantly different. The alga, C. ellipsoidea attained maximum cell density of 28.89×106 cell ml-1 in the 15th day in medium I, of 30.69×106 cell ml-1 in the 13th day in medium II, of 26.18×106 cell ml-1 in the 15th day in medium III and of 21.12×106 cell ml-1 in the 13th day in medium IV. The ranges of air temperature, water temperature and light intensity were 21°C to 38°C, 23°C to 36°C and 2.28×103to 9.60×103 Lux respectively during the culture period. The average sunshine period was 5.87±2.82 hrs. Total alkalinity, free CO2, pH , NO3-N and PO4-P of algal culture media I, II, III and IV were 128, 540, 554 and 322 mgL-1; 32, 162, 102, 70 mgL-1; 7.4, 8, 7.9 and 7.9; 180, 36.6, 62.4 and 150 mgL-1, and 25.2, 48.2, 42.4 and 45.6 mgL-1, respectively. According to ANOVA of cell densities of cultures of C. ellipsoidea under treatments are not significantly different (F=1.441077). It is clear that differences between them are not significant i.e. mean algal cell densities are more or less same as differences between treatments are less than 20%.Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 7 (1): 51-57, June, 2017
Effect of apical dominance on bud take in Citrus vegetative propagation
Authors: Mataa M , Cheelo P , Lungu D , Kinkese T
Published: July 2017

The objective of the study was to identify the grafting method, which will have a higher success rate of scion development. The study was conducted at Mount Makulu Central Research station in Chilanga, Zambia (15o33S / 28o11E) from April 2010 to November 2011. The study had 4 vegetative propagation methods that varied in the treatment of the rootstock and scion. The four methods were Standard T- budding (STB); Modified TBudding with decapitation (TBD); T- budding with scion bending (TBB); Crown grafting (CG). Bud take, shoot growth, leaf emergence and Leaf area index were measured up to 11 weeks after treatment (WAT). With CG there was 100 % bud take. STB had a bud take of 58.3 %. TBD had a bud take of 50 %. The lowest bud take percentage was recorded in TBB, which had a bud take of 41.7 %. At 5 weeks the STB and TBB treatment had shoot length of 0.7 and 1.0 cm respectively which were the shortest; this was followed by the CG treatment at 15.3 cm and the modified TBD with apical shoot decapitation (21.7 cm). STB shoots did not start growing until about 5 weeks, which was 2 weeks after the rootstock was cut off. At 5 weeks, the TBB and STB were yet to form leaves. The CG had close to 20 leaves and the TBD had almost 15.2 leaves. At the end of 11 weeks, the TBB had the highest number of leaves. Across the grafting methods; the Leaf area exhibited a pattern similar to leaf number; it kept on doubling every 2 weeks to until the 9th week after which the increase was negligible. At 11 weeks, the highest leaf area was in the TBD followed by the STB and lowest in the CG treatment.Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. & Tech. 7 (1): 64-70, June, 2017
Automated Diatom Classification (Part A): Handcrafted Feature Approaches
Authors: Bueno Gloria , Deniz Oscar , Pedraza Anibal , Ruiz-Santaquiteria Jesús , Salido Jesús , Cristóbal Gabriel , Borrego-Ramos María , Blanco Saúl
Published: July 2017

This paper deals with automatic taxa identification based on machine learning methods. The aim is therefore to automatically classify diatoms, in terms of pattern recognition terminology. Diatoms are a kind of algae microorganism with high biodiversity at the species level, which are useful for water quality assessment. The most relevant features for diatom description and classification have been selected using an extensive dataset of 80 taxa with a minimum of 100 samples/taxon augmented to 300 samples/taxon. In addition to published morphological, statistical and textural descriptors, a new textural descriptor, Local Binary Patterns (LBP), to characterize the diatom’s valves, and a log Gabor implementation not tested before for this purpose are introduced in this paper. Results show an overall accuracy of 98.11% using bagging decision trees and combinations of descriptors. Finally, some phycological features of diatoms that are still difficult to integrate in computer systems are discussed for future work.
Fabrication and Testing of PVA/Chitosan Bilayer Films for Strawberry Packaging
Authors: Liu Yaowen , Wang Shuyao , Lan Wenting , Qin Wen
Published: July 2017

Strawberry packaging based on four different chitosan–poly(vinylalcohol) blend films with chitosan contents of 0 wt %, 20 wt %, 25 wt %, and 30 wt % was tested. The samples were stored at 18 ± 2 °C and 60% ± 5% relative humidity for six days. Strawberry quality was evaluated during and after storage. Strawberries packaged using these films showed significant differences in weight loss and firmness, decay percentage, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, and ascorbic acid content when compared to non-packaged strawberries. The 25 wt % bilayer film showed the best performance in terms of delaying changes in strawberries. The findings suggest that these 25 wt % chitosan films can used to extend strawberry shelf lives while maintaining quality levels.
Estimating Lithium-Ion Battery State of Charge and Parameters Using a Continuous-Discrete Extended Kalman Filter
Authors: Diab Yasser , Auger François , Schaeffer Emmanuel , Wahbeh Moutassem
Published: July 2017

A real-time determination of battery parameters is challenging because batteries are non-linear, time-varying systems. The transient behaviour of lithium-ion batteries is modelled by a Thevenin-equivalent circuit with two time constants characterising activation and concentration polarization. An experimental approach is proposed for directly determining battery parameters as a function of physical quantities. The model’s parameters are a function of the state of charge and of the discharge rate. These can be expressed by regression equations in the model to derive a continuous-discrete extended Kalman estimator of the state of charge and of other parameters. This technique is based on numerical integration of the ordinary differential equations to predict the state of the stochastic dynamic system and the corresponding error covariance matrix. Then a standard correction step of the extended Kalman filter (EKF) is applied to increase the accuracy of estimated parameters. Simulations resulting from this proposed estimator model were compared with experimental results under a variety of operating scenarios—analysis of the results demonstrate the accuracy of the estimator for correctly identifying battery parameters.
An Approach of Quantifying Gear Fatigue Life for Wind Turbine Gearboxes Using Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Data
Authors: Qiu Yingning , Chen Lang , Feng Yanhui , Xu Yili
Published: July 2017

Quantifying wind turbine (WT) gearbox fatigue life is a critical problem for preventive maintenance when unsolved. This paper proposes a practical approach that uses ten minutes’ average wind speed of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) data to quantify a WT gearbox’s gear fatigue life. Wind turbulence impacts on gearbox fatigue are studied thoroughly. Short-term fatigue assessment for the gearbox is then performed using linear fatigue theory by considering WT responses under external and internal excitation. The results shows that for a three stage gearbox, the sun gear in the first stage and pinions in the 2nd and 3rd stage are the most vulnerable parts. High mean wind speed, especially above the rated range, leads to a high risk of gearbox fatigue damage. Increase of wind turbulence may not increase fatigue damage as long as a WT has an instant response to external excitation. An approach of using SCADA data recorded every ten minutes to quantify gearbox long-term damages is presented. The calculation results show that the approach effectively presents gears’ performance degradation by quantifying their fatigue damage. This is critical to improve WT reliability and meaningful for WT gearbox fatigue assessment theory. The result provides useful tools for future wind farm prognostic maintenance.
Automatic Mapping of Forest Stands Based on Three-Dimensional Point Clouds Derived from Terrestrial Laser-Scanning
Authors: Ritter Tim , Schwarz Marcel , Tockner Andreas , Leisch Friedrich , Nothdurft Arne
Published: July 2017

Mapping of exact tree positions can be regarded as a crucial task of field work associated with forest monitoring, especially on intensive research plots. We propose a two-stage density clustering approach for the automatic mapping of tree positions, and an algorithm for automatic tree diameter estimates based on terrestrial laser-scanning (TLS) point cloud data sampled under limited sighting conditions. We show that our novel approach is able to detect tree positions in a mixed and vertically structured stand with an overall accuracy of 91.6%, and with omission- and commission error of only 5.7% and 2.7% respectively. Moreover, we were able to reproduce the stand’s diameter in breast height (DBH) distribution, and to estimate single trees DBH with a mean average deviation of ±2.90 cm compared with tape measurements as reference.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Implementing a More Severe Drunk-Driving Law in China: Findings from Two Open Access Data Sources
Authors: Xiao Wangxin , Ning Peishan , Schwebel David , Hu Guoqing
Published: July 2017

In 2011, China implemented a more severe drunk-driving law. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the law on road traffic morbidity and mortality attributed to alcohol use. Data were from two open-access data sources, the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2015 update and police data. Poisson regression examined the significance of changes in morbidity and mortality. Large gaps in crude death estimates from road traffic crashes attributed to alcohol use emerged between the two data sources. For the GBD 2015 update, crude and age-standardized mortality displayed consistent trends between 1990 and 2015; age-standardized mortality per 100,000 persons increased from 5.71 in 1990 to 7.48 in 2005 and then continuously decreased down to 5.94 in 2015. Police data showed a decrease for crude mortality per 100,000 persons from 0.29 in 2006 to 0.15 in 2010 and then an increase to 0.19 in 2015. We conclude available data are inadequate to determine the effectiveness of the implementation of the more severe drunk-driving law in China since the two data sources present highly inconsistent results. Further effort is needed to tackle data inconsistencies and obtain reliable and accurate data on road traffic injury attributable to alcohol use in China.
Finding a Balance between Protection and Pathology: The Dual Role of Perforin in Human Disease
Authors: Willenbring Robin , Johnson Aaron
Published: July 2017

Perforin is critical for controlling viral infection and tumor surveillance. Clinically, mutations in perforin are viewed as unfavorable, as lack of this pore-forming protein results in lethal, childhood disease, familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 2 (FHL 2). However, many mutations in the coding region of PRF1 are not yet associated with disease. Animal models of viral-associated blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption and experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) have identified perforin as critical for inducing pathologic central nervous system CNS vascular permeability. This review focuses on the role of perforin in both protecting and promoting human disease. It concludes with a novel hypothesis that diversity observed in the PRF1 gene may be an example of selective advantage that protects an individual from perforin-mediated pathology, such as BBB disruption.
Microbubbles-Assisted Ultrasound Triggers the Release of Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Yuana Yuana , Jiang Linglei , Lammertink Bart , Vader Pieter , Deckers Roel , Bos Clemens , Schiffelers Raymond , Moonen Chrit
Published: July 2017

Microbubbles-assisted ultrasound (USMB) has shown promise in improving local drug delivery. The formation of transient membrane pores and endocytosis are reported to be enhanced by USMB, and they contribute to cellular drug uptake. Exocytosis also seems to be linked to endocytosis upon USMB treatment. Based on this rationale, we investigated whether USMB triggers exocytosis resulting in the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs). USMB was performed on a monolayer of head-and-neck cancer cells (FaDu) with clinically approved microbubbles and commonly used ultrasound parameters. At 2, 4, and 24 h, cells and EV-containing conditioned media from USMB and control conditions (untreated cells, cells treated with microbubbles and ultrasound only) were harvested. EVs were measured using flow cytometric immuno-magnetic bead capture assay, immunogold electron microscopy, and western blotting. After USMB, levels of CD9 exposing-EVs significantly increased at 2 and 4 h, whereas levels of CD63 exposing-EVs increased at 2 h. At 24 h, EV levels were comparable to control levels. EVs released after USMB displayed a heterogeneous size distribution profile (30–1200 nm). Typical EV markers CD9, CD63, and alix were enriched in EVs released from USMB-treated FaDu cells. In conclusion, USMB treatment triggers exocytosis leading to the release of EVs from FaDu cells.
Porcine Interferon Stimulated Gene 12a Restricts Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Replication in MARC-145 Cells
Authors: Ji Likai , Zhou Xiang , Liang Wan , Liu Jianjian , Liu Bang
Published: July 2017

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes severe losses in the global pig industry. In the present study, we investigated the molecular characterization of porcine interferon stimulated gene 12a (ISG12A) and confirmed its anti-PRRSV ability for the first time. We found that porcine ISG12A was localized in mitochondria and significantly decreased the number of cells in G2/S phase. Porcine ISG12A mRNA was up-regulated in cells/tissues of Tongcheng (TC) pigs and Large White (LW) pigs after PRRSV challenge. More importantly, the ectopic overexpression of ISG12A could significantly suppress PRRSV replication at 24, 36 and 48 h post challenge (hpc), which was confirmed by detecting PRRSV ORF7 mRNA with quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and PRRSV N protein with indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) in MARC-145 cells. Meanwhile, knockdown of endogenic ISG12A could obviously facilitate PRRSV replication in MARC-145 cells at 36 hpc. The results will lead to a better understanding of the interaction between host immune system and PRRSV, which may help us develop novel therapeutic tools to control PRRSV.
Notch Signaling in Endothelial Cells: Is It the Therapeutic Target for Vascular Neointimal Hyperplasia?
Authors: Tian Ding-Yuan , Jin Xu-Rui , Zeng Xi , Wang Yun
Published: July 2017

Blood vessels respond to injury through a healing process that includes neointimal hyperplasia. The vascular endothelium is a monolayer of cells that separates the outer vascular wall from the inner circulating blood. The disruption and exposure of endothelial cells (ECs) to subintimal components initiate the neointimal formation. ECs not only act as a highly selective barrier to prevent early pathological changes of neointimal hyperplasia, but also synthesize and release molecules to maintain vascular homeostasis. After vascular injury, ECs exhibit varied responses, including proliferation, regeneration, apoptosis, phenotypic switching, interacting with other cells by direct contact or secreted molecules and the change of barrier function. This brief review presents the functional role of the evolutionarily-conserved Notch pathway in neointimal hyperplasia, notably by regulating endothelial cell functions (proliferation, regeneration, apoptosis, differentiation, cell-cell interaction). Understanding endothelial cell biology should help us define methods to prompt cell proliferation, prevent cell apoptosis and dysfunction, block neointimal hyperplasia and vessel narrowing.
Stabilization of Discrete-Time Markovian Jump Systems by a Partially Mode-Unmatched Fault-Tolerant Controller
Authors: Liu Mo , Wang Guoliang
Published: July 2017

In this paper, a kind of fault-tolerant controller is proposed to study the stabilization problem of discrete-time Markovian jump systems, whose operation modes are not only partially-available but also unmatched. Here, such general properties of controller are modeled to be a controller having polytopic forms and uncertainties simultaneously. Based on the proposed model, concise conditions for the existence of such a controller are proposed with linear matrix inequality (LMI) forms, which are extended to consider observer design problem too. Compared with the traditional methods, not only is the designed controller more general but also the established results are fault free and could be solved directly. Finally, numerical examples are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Constructing Interactive Visual Classification, Clustering and Dimension Reduction Models for n-D Data
Authors: Kovalerchuk Boris , Dovhalets Dmytro
Published: July 2017

Abstract: The exploration of multidimensional datasets of all possible sizes and dimensions is a long-standing challenge in knowledge discovery, machine learning, and visualization. While multiple efficient visualization methods for n-D data analysis exist, the loss of information, occlusion, and clutter continue to be a challenge. This paper proposes and explores a new interactive method for visual discovery of n-D relations for supervised learning. The method includes automatic, interactive, and combined algorithms for discovering linear relations, dimension reduction, and generalization for non-linear relations. This method is a special category of reversible General Line Coordinates (GLC). It produces graphs in 2-D that represent n-D points losslessly, i.e., allowing the restoration of n-D data from the graphs. The projections of graphs are used for classification. The method is illustrated by solving machine-learning classification and dimension-reduction tasks from the domains of image processing, computer-aided medical diagnostics, and finance. Experiments conducted on several datasets show that this visual interactive method can compete in accuracy with analytical machine learning algorithms.
Responses of Crop Pests and Natural Enemies to Wildflower Borders Depends on Functional Group
Authors: McCabe Ellie , Loeb Gregory , Grab Heather
Published: July 2017

Increased homogeneity of agricultural landscapes in the last century has led to a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. However, management practices such as wildflower borders offer supplementary resources to many beneficial arthropods. There is evidence that these borders can increase beneficial arthropod abundance, including natural enemies of many pests. However, this increase in local habitat diversity can also have effects on pest populations, and these effects are not well-studied. In this study, we investigated how wildflower borders affect both natural enemies and pests within an adjacent strawberry crop. Significantly more predators were captured in strawberry plantings with wildflower borders versus plantings without wildflowers, but this effect depended on sampling method. Overall, herbivore populations were lower in plots with a wildflower border; however, responses to wildflower borders varied across specific pest groups. Densities of Lygus lineolaris (Tarnished Plant Bug), a generalist pest, increased significantly in plots that had a border, while Stelidota geminata (Strawberry Sap Beetle) decreased in strawberry fields with a wildflower border. These results suggest that wildflower borders may support the control of some pest insects; however, if the pest is a generalist and can utilize the resources of the wildflower patch, their populations may increase within the crop.
Control of Active Magnetic Bearings in Turbomolecular Pumps for Rotors with Low Resonance Frequencies of the Blade Wheel
Authors: Hutterer Markus , Schrödl Manfred
Published: July 2017

Rotors with high gyroscopic effects and low resonance frequencies caused by the blade wheel (blade frequencies) can lead to stabilization problems in the application field of turbomolecular pumps. If such a rotor is stabilized by active magnetic bearings, the control structure could be destabilized by the splitting up of the rigid body eigen-frequencies caused by the gyroscopic effect. The control structure of the magnetic bearings can also destabilize the eigen-modes caused by the blade wheel, if the gain of the control structure is too high in the range of the eigen-frequencies of the blade wheel. To deal with the problem of the gyroscopic effect, a decoupling and compensation method was developed based on the inverse dynamics of the rigid body rotor. The gain of the control structure in the range of the blade frequencies is decreased using a Kalman filter. To increase the damping of the system, the predicted states of the linear magnetic bearing model using a Kalman filter are applied instead of the sampled values of the sensors directly. For the decoupled structure, PID controllers are used for stabilization. The functionality of the control structure is verified by a measurement of the current and position signal using the Kalman states and the sensor values. The robustness and performance in the frequency range are verified using the sensitivity and compliance function.
Characterization of the Micro-Abrasive Wear in Coatings of TaC-HfC/Au for Biomedical Implants
Authors: Guzmán Pablo , Yate Luis , Sandoval Mercy , Caballero Jose , Aperador Willian
Published: July 2017

The object of this work was the deposition of a Ta-Hf-C thin film with a gold interlayer on stainless steel, via the physical vapor deposition (PVD) technique, in order to evaluate the properties of different systems subjected to micro-abrasive wear phenomena generated by alumina particles in Ringer's solution. The surface characterization was performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM). The crystallographic phases exhibited for each coating were obtained by X-ray diffraction (XRD). As a consequence of modifying the composition of Ta-Hf there was evidence of an improvement in the micro-abrasive wear resistance and, for each system, the wear constants that confirm the enhancement of the surface were calculated. Likewise, these surfaces can be bioactive, generating an alternative to improve the biological fixation of the implants, therefore, the coatings of TaC-HfC/Au contribute in the development of the new generation of orthopedic implants.
Nanostructured ZnO in a Metglas/ZnO/Hemoglobin Modified Electrode to Detect the Oxidation of the Hemoglobin Simultaneously by Cyclic Voltammetry and Magnetoelastic Resonance
Authors: Sagasti Ariane , Bouropoulos Nikolaos , Kouzoudis Dimitris , Panagiotopoulos Apostolos , Topoglidis Emmanuel , Gutiérrez Jon
Published: July 2017

In the present work, a nanostructured ZnO layer was synthesized onto a Metglas magnetoelastic ribbon to immobilize hemoglobin (Hb) on it and study the Hb’s electrochemical behavior towards hydrogen peroxide. Hb oxidation by H2O2 was monitored simultaneously by two different techniques: Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Magnetoelastic Resonance (MR). The Metglas/ZnO/Hb system was simultaneously used as a working electrode for the CV scans and as a magnetoelastic sensor excited by external coils, which drive it to resonance and interrogate it. The ZnO nanoparticles for the ZnO layer were grown hydrothermally and fully characterized by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and photoluminescence (PL). Additionally, the ZnO layer’s elastic modulus was measured using a new method, which makes use of the Metglas substrate. For the detection experiments, the electrochemical cell was performed with a glass vial, where the three electrodes (working, counter and reference) were immersed into PBS (Phosphate Buffer Solution) solution and small H2O2 drops were added, one at a time. CV scans were taken every 30 s and 5 min after the addition of each drop and meanwhile a magnetoelastic measurement was taken by the external coils. The CV plots reveal direct electrochemical behavior of Hb and display good electrocatalytic response to the reduction of H2O2. The measured catalysis currents increase linearly with the H2O2 concentration in a wide range of 25–350 μM with a correlation coefficient 0.99. The detection limit is 25–50 μM. Moreover, the Metglas/ZnO/Hb electrode displays rapid response (30 s) to H2O2, and exhibits good stability and reproducibility of the measurements. On the other hand, the magnetoelastic measurements show a small linear mass increase versus the H2O2 concentration with a slope of 152 ng/μM, which is probably due to H2O2 adsorption in ZnO during the electrochemical reaction. No such effects were detected during the control experiment when only PBS solution was present for a long time.
Effect of Alternating Current on the Cathodic Protection and Interface Structure of X80 Steel
Authors: Wang Huiru , Du Cuiwei , Liu Zhiyong , Wang Luntao , Ding De
Published: July 2017

This study employs potential-monitoring techniques, cyclic voltammetry tests, alternating current (AC) voltammetry methods, and surface characterization to investigate the AC corrosion of cathodically protected X80 pipeline steel. In a non-passive neutral solution at pH 7.2, a sufficiently negative potential completely protects steel at an AC current density of 100 A/m2. In an alkaline solution at pH 9.6, more serious AC corrosion occurs at more negative cathodic protection (CP) potential, whereas without CP the steel suffers negligible corrosion. In addition, the interface capacitance increases with AC amplitude. Based on these results, the AC corrosion mechanisms that function under various conditions are analyzed and described.
Microorganisms in Fermented Apple Beverages: Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Cousin Fabien , Le Guellec Rozenn , Schlusselhuber Margot , Dalmasso Marion , Laplace Jean-Marie , Cretenet Marina
Published: July 2017

Production of fermented apple beverages is spread all around the world with specificities in each country. ‘French ciders’ refer to fermented apple juice mainly produced in the northwest of France and often associated with short periods of consumption. Research articles on this kind of product are scarce compared to wine, especially on phenomena associated with microbial activities. The wine fermentation microbiome and its dynamics, organoleptic improvement for healthy and pleasant products and development of starters are now widely studied. Even if both beverages seem close in terms of microbiome and process (with both alcoholic and malolactic fermentations), the inherent properties of the raw materials and different production and environmental parameters make research on the specificities of apple fermentation beverages worthwhile. This review summarizes current knowledge on the cider microbial ecosystem, associated activities and the influence of process parameters. In addition, available data on cider quality and safety is reviewed. Finally, we focus on the future role of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts in the development of even better or new beverages made from apples.
Carbonate Apatite Precipitation from Synthetic Municipal Wastewater
Authors: Ross Jessica , Gao Lu , Meouch Orysia , Anthony Essie , Sutarwala Divya , Mamo Helina , Omelon Sidney
Published: July 2017

An important component of phosphorite (phosphate rock) is carbonate apatite, as it is required for phosphorous fertilizer production due to its increased phosphate solubility caused by carbonate substitution in the apatite mineral lattice. High phosphate concentrations in municipal wastewater treatment plants are commonly reduced by precipitating iron phosphate by addition of iron chloride. We investigated the possibility of precipitating carbonate apatite from a potential range of phosphate concentrations that could be available from municipal wastewater treatment plants with anaerobic digestion reactors (5 mM–30 mM). Synthetic phosphate solutions at neutral pH were mixed in batch experiments with a calcium carbonate solution produced by dissolving calcite in contact with carbon dioxide gas, with and without carbonate apatite seed. Batch experiments were used to identify the carbonate apatite supersaturation ranges for homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation, and the precipitates analyzed with Raman spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, inorganic carbon coulometry, and scanning electron microscopy. Some precipitates contained carbonate weight fractions within the range reported for geological phosphate rock (1.4–6.3 wt %). The precipitates were spherical, poorly crystalline carbonate apatite, suggesting an amorphous precursor transformed to a poorly crystalline carbonate apatite without changing morphology.
Identification of Urinary Polyphenol Metabolite Patterns Associated with Polyphenol-Rich Food Intake in Adults from Four European Countries
Authors: Noh Hwayoung , Freisling Heinz , Assi Nada , Zamora-Ros Raul , Achaintre David , Affret Aurélie , Mancini Francesca , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Flögel Anna , Boeing Heiner , Kühn Tilman , Schübel Ruth , Trichopoulou Antonia , Naska Androniki , Kritikou Maria , Palli Domenico , Pala Valeria , Tumino Rosario , Ricceri Fulvio , Santucci de Magistris Maria , Cross Amanda , Slimani Nadia , Scalbert Augustin , Ferrari Pietro
Published: July 2017

We identified urinary polyphenol metabolite patterns by a novel algorithm that combines dimension reduction and variable selection methods to explain polyphenol-rich food intake, and compared their respective performance with that of single biomarkers in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. The study included 475 adults from four European countries (Germany, France, Italy, and Greece). Dietary intakes were assessed with 24-h dietary recalls (24-HDR) and dietary questionnaires (DQ). Thirty-four polyphenols were measured by ultra-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS-MS) in 24-h urine. Reduced rank regression-based variable importance in projection (RRR-VIP) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) methods were used to select polyphenol metabolites. Reduced rank regression (RRR) was then used to identify patterns in these metabolites, maximizing the explained variability in intake of pre-selected polyphenol-rich foods. The performance of RRR models was evaluated using internal cross-validation to control for over-optimistic findings from over-fitting. High performance was observed for explaining recent intake (24-HDR) of red wine (r = 0.65; AUC = 89.1%), coffee (r = 0.51; AUC = 89.1%), and olives (r = 0.35; AUC = 82.2%). These metabolite patterns performed better or equally well compared to single polyphenol biomarkers. Neither metabolite patterns nor single biomarkers performed well in explaining habitual intake (as reported in the DQ) of polyphenol-rich foods. This proposed strategy of biomarker pattern identification has the potential of expanding the currently still limited list of available dietary intake biomarkers.
High Constitutive Overexpression of Glycosyl Hydrolase Family 17 Delays Floral Transition by Enhancing FLC Expression in Transgenic Arabidopsis
Authors: Enoki Shinichi , Fujimori Nozomi , Yamaguchi Chiho , Hattori Tomoki , Suzuki Shunji
Published: July 2017

Vitis vinifera glycosyl hydrolase family 17 (VvGHF17) is a grape apoplasmic β-1,3-glucanase, which belongs to glycosyl hydrolase family 17 in grapevines. β-1,3-glucanase is not only involved in plant defense response but also has various physiological functions in plants. Although VvGHF17 expression is negatively related to the length of inflorescence in grapevines, the physiological functions of VvGHF17 are still uncertain. To clarify the physiological functions of VvGHF17, we conducted a phenotypic analysis of VvGHF17-overexpressing Arabidopsis plants. VvGHF17-overexpressing Arabidopsis plants showed short inflorescence, similar to grapevines. These results suggested that VvGHF17 might negatively regulate the length of inflorescence in plants. VvGHF17 expression induced a delay of floral transition in Arabidopsis plants. The expression level of FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC), known as a floral repressor gene, in inflorescence meristem of transgenic plants were increased by approximately 10-fold as compared with wild plants. These results suggest that VvGHF17 induces a delay of floral transition by enhancing FLC expression and concomitantly decreases the length of plant inflorescence.
The Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Managing High Arctic Tourism Sites: A Collective Action Perspective
Authors: Bystrowska Marta , Wigger Karin , Liggett Daniela
Published: July 2017

Sustainable management of nature-based tourism sites is a pertinent issue in vulnerable Arctic environments. Arctic tourism operators often act collectively to protect their common interests of ensuring the sustainability of tourism sites. Nowadays, information and communication technology (ICT) is increasingly used to support these collaborative efforts, but the remoteness and risks associated with Arctic tourism operations challenge the success of such collective action. This study explores the use of ICT as a management tool for Arctic tourism sites to ensure their sustained quality. Drawing on a case study of an expedition cruise operators’ network in Svalbard, we explore how the use of ICT affects collective action and sustainable management of tourism sites. Our findings show that, through increased noticeability, the creation of artificial proximity and the development of new management practices, ICT can help to overcome the challenges for collective action that are posed by the Arctic environment. The use of ICT results in changes in a network’s relational and normative structures, which can as much add to as detract from the success of collective action. Our study indicates that the successful application of ICT depends on a high level of social capital, in particular norms, to guide interactions between ICT and network actors.
Rare Earth Element Deposits of Alkaline Igneous Rocks
Authors: Dostal Jaroslav
Published: July 2017

Alkaline igneous complexes host deposits of rare earth elements (REE), which represent one of the most economically important resources of heavy REE and Yttrium (Y). The hosts are differentiated rocks ranging from nepheline syenites and trachytes to peralkaline granites. These complexes usually occur in continental within-plate tectonic settings associated with rifts, faults, or hotspot magmatism. The REE mineralization is found in layered alkaline complexes, granitic stocks, and late-stages dikes and rarely trachytic volcanic and volcaniclastic deposits. The bulk of REE is present in accessory minerals, which can reach percentage levels in mineralized zones. The mineralization contains various REE-bearing minerals that can display complex replacement textures. Main REE minerals present in these deposits are bastnäsite, eudialyte, loparite, gittinsite, xenotime, monazite, zircon, and fergusonite. The parent magmas of alkaline igneous complexes are derived from partial melts of mantle sources. Protracted fractional crystallization of the magma led to an enrichment in REE, particularly in the late stages of magma evolution. The primary magmatic mineralization is commonly overprinted (remobilized and enriched) by late magmatic to hydrothermal fluids. Elevated abundances of U and Th in the deposits make a gamma-ray (radiometric) survey an important exploration tool, but also represent a significant environmental challenge for exploitation.
A Method to Obtain Orange Crop Geometry Information Using a Mobile Terrestrial Laser Scanner and 3D Modeling
Authors: Colaço André , Trevisan Rodrigo , Molin José , Rosell-Polo Joan , Escolà Alexandre
Published: July 2017

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology has been used to obtain geometrical attributes of tree crops in small field plots, sometimes using manual steps in data processing. The objective of this study was to develop a method for estimating canopy volume and height based on a mobile terrestrial laser scanner suited for large commercial orange groves. A 2D LiDAR sensor and a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver were mounted on a vehicle for data acquisition. A georeferenced point cloud representing the laser beam impacts on the crop was created and later classified into transversal sections along the row or into individual trees. The convex-hull and the alpha-shape reconstruction algorithms were used to reproduce the shape of the tree crowns. Maps of canopy volume and height were generated for a 25 ha orange grove. The different options of data processing resulted in different values of canopy volume. The alpha-shape algorithm was considered a good option to represent individual trees whereas the convex-hull was better when representing transversal sections of the row. Nevertheless, the canopy volume and height maps produced by those two methods were similar. The proposed system is useful for site-specific management in orange groves.
Detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Metabolite Pyocyanin in Water and Saliva by Employing the SERS Technique
Authors: Žukovskaja Olga , Jahn Izabella , Weber Karina , Cialla-May Dana , Popp Jürgen
Published: July 2017

Pyocyanin (PYO) is a metabolite specific for Pseudomonas aeruginosa. In the case of immunocompromised patients, it is currently considered a biomarker for life-threating Pseudomonas infections. In the frame of this study it is shown, that PYO can be detected in aqueous solution by employing surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) combined with a microfluidic platform. The achieved limit of detection is 0.5 μM. This is ~2 orders of magnitude below the concentration of PYO found in clinical samples. Furthermore, as proof of principle, the SERS detection of PYO in the saliva of three volunteers was also investigated. This body fluid can be collected in a non-invasive manner and is highly chemically complex, making the detection of the target molecule challenging. Nevertheless, PYO was successfully detected in two saliva samples down to 10 μM and in one sample at a concentration of 25 μM. This indicates that the molecules present in saliva do not inhibit the efficient adsorption of PYO on the surface of the employed SERS active substrates.