bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paleomagnetic Secular Variation Constraints on the Rapid Eruption of the Emeishan Continental Flood Basalts in Southwestern China and Northern Vietnam
Authors: Xu Yingchao , Yang Zhenyu , Tong Ya‐Bo , Jing Xianqing
Published: April 2018

Estimating the duration of magma eruptions using isotopic dating methods is difficult because of the intrinsic errors of the technique regarding the dated materials (such as zircon). However, the long‐term variation of the geomagnetic field recorded by lava flows can be used to estimate the net duration of an eruption sequence. The Emeishan basalts at Dongchuan, with a thickness of 630 m, yielded a reliable characteristic remanent magnetization of normal polarity and which passed the fold test (Tauxe & Watson, 1994,https://doi.org/10.1016/0012-821X(94)90006-X). Stratigraphic and magnetostratigraphic correlations of the Emeishan basalts in the Dongchuan section with other sections indicate that the eruption of the Emeishan basalts at Dongchuan spans the entire normal polarity zone in the early stage of the Emeishan large igneous province. A flow‐by‐flow analysis of geomagnetic directions of the Emeishan basalts at Dongchuan indicates that four directional groups and fifteen individual lava directions were recorded, with a net duration (excluding quiescent intervals) of no more than 3100 years. The averaged site directions from the Emeishan basalts with normal polarity conforming to a geocentric axial dipole direction indicate that this interval is longer than 104–105 years. In addition, a magnetostratigraphic study indicates that the normal polarity interval recorded by the Emeishan basalts was shorter than 2–20 × 104 years. Thus, the total duration of the normal polarity stage of the Emeishan large igneous province was roughly 105 years. There is a possible relationship between the rapid eruption and the Late Capitanian mass extinction (259.8 ± 0.4 Ma, Henderson et al., 2012).
Quantifying Climate‐Related Interactions in Shallow and Deep Storage and Evapotranspiration in a Forested, Seasonally Water‐Limited Watershed in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Aulenbach Brent T. , Peters Norman E.
Published: April 2018

The Southeastern United States experiences recurring hydrological droughts, which can reduce water availability and result in water deficits. Long‐term monitoring data from Panola Mountain Research Watershed, a small, forested, seasonally water‐limited watershed near Atlanta, GA, was used to quantify interactions of climatic variability with shallow and deep storage and evapotranspiration. Watershed storage (WS) and actual evapotranspiration (AET) were estimated monthly from 1985 through 2015 using a relationship with baseflow and a water‐budget approach, respectively. A watershed shallow storage (SS) water budget, based on soil moisture profile data, indicated a transition from recharge to surplus as dormant season SS increased to field capacity, and a transition from utilization of stored water to water deficits as growing season SS declined toward its wilting point. Deeper storage appeared unavailable to AET during dry conditions. The majority of deeper storage recharge occurred during the dormant season and required SS to be near field capacity. WS was an effective drought indicator. Growing season droughts typically occurred when WS was below normal at the end of the dormant season and growing season precipitation (P) was below or near normal. A hydrologic persistence analysis showed that monthly month‐standardized WS was significantly correlated (p‐value < 0.05) with past monthly month‐standardized WS for the previous 19 months and with past monthly P for the previous 11 months, indicating the importance of past hydrologic conditions on WS. These findings allowed assessment of expected climatic changes on the water cycle, which included effects on future recharge, water deficits, and drought occurrence.
Retreat to refugia: Severe habitat contraction projected for endemic alpine plants of the Olympic Peninsula
Authors: Wershow Samuel T. , DeChaine Eric G.
Published: April 2018

PREMISE OF THE STUDY

The unique geography of the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, USA has promoted a flora with exceptional endemism that may face high rates of extinction due to climate change. The Olympic Mountains provide an unparalleled opportunity to test predicted responses in topographically complex environments and inform conservation plans for threatened alpine taxa.

METHODS

We estimated the potential impact of climate change for five endemic alpine plants of the Olympic Peninsula. We used Principal Components Analysis (PCA) to visualize changes in climate niche‐space in the alpine zone and the exposure of the endemics to changing conditions. We then constructed climate and topographic‐based Species Distribution Models (SDMs) to estimate changes in the distribution of habitat for each taxon.

KEY RESULTS

The Olympic alpine zone will experience novel environmental conditions in the future, with a pronounced decrease in winter snow and an increase in growing‐season moisture stress. When topography was taken into account, the losses were more dramatic than the impact of climate alone. Indeed, 85–99% of the suitable habitat will be lost for each of the five focal taxa by 2080, with thermal refugia remaining only on the highest peaks of the eastern Olympics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Olympic alpine endemics are stranded on ever‐shrinking habitat islands. Within a few, isolated thermal refugia, the distribution of micro‐topography may be a critical factor in determining long‐term survival. The Olympic Mountains and their alpine taxa are a model system for endemics worldwide, illustrating the biogeographic characteristics that underpin vulnerability to climate change.
Evidence‐based dosing of maintenance subcutaneous immunotherapy: a contemporary review of state‐of‐the‐art practice
Authors: Hoover Hunter , Leatherman Bryan , Ryan Matthew , McMains Kevin , Veling Maria
Published: April 2018

Background

Subcutaneous immunotherapy is an effective allergy treatment only if properly dosed. In this article we review the data on the probable effective dose range for subcutaneous immunotherapy and convert the recommended doses into a clinically relevant format.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of dose‐response subcutaneous immunotherapy studies was done of EBM databases, Medline database, PreMedline, and the National Guideline Clearinghouse for the period 1980–2016. Recommended doses were converted to the volume of allergen extract that should be added to a 5‐mL maintenance vial.

Results

A safe and effective dose for subcutaneous immunotherapy is likely 5–20 μg of major allergen per injection. A 0.5‐mL injection from a 5‐mL maintenance vial containing 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract of each allergen should reach the lower end of the probable effective dose range for most allergens. A larger volume of extract is required to reach that range when treatment includes cat, dog, or only 1 dust mite. Increasing beyond the commonly prescribed 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract added to a 5‐mL treatment vial is reasonable for nearly all allergens to achieve a maintenance dose higher in the probable effective dose range.

Conclusion

Current otolaryngic allergy practice usually escalates patients to 0.5‐mL injections from 5‐mL maintenance vials containing 0.2 mL of manufacturer's extract of each allergen. With the main exceptions of cat and dog, those injections administered 1 or 2 times per month likely provide an efficacious dose of allergen and are consistent with published guidelines. A larger volume of extract should be considered in certain clinical situations.
O2‐Mediated Oxidation of Aminoboranes through 1,2‐N Migration
Authors: Rauser Marian , Warzecha Daniel P. , Niggemann Meike
Published: April 2018

In analogy to the classical reaction of C−B bonds with peroxides, the first oxidative functionalization of aminoboranes through a 1,2‐N migration was realized. Readily available aliphatic nitro compounds are thereby transformed into N‐ and O‐functionalized hydroxylamines in a single synthetic operation. Addition of hazardous peroxides is avoided. Instead, the insertion of O2, as the terminal oxidant, into Zn−C bonds provides the necessary peroxides. The required zinc organyls, in turn, are formed through a boron‐to‐zinc exchange, from an organoboronic ester byproduct of the nitro‐to‐aminoborane transformation.
A Facile Method for Producing Selenocysteine‐Containing Proteins
Authors: Mukai Takahito , Sevostyanova Anastasia , Suzuki Tateki , Fu Xian , Söll Dieter
Published: April 2018

Selenocysteine (Sec, U) confers new chemical properties on proteins. Improved tools are thus required that enable Sec insertion into any desired position of a protein. We report a facile method for synthesizing selenoproteins with multiple Sec residues by expanding the genetic code of Escherichia coli. We recently discovered allo‐tRNAs, tRNA species with unusual structure, that are as efficient serine acceptors as E. coli tRNASer. Ser‐allo‐tRNA was converted into Sec‐allo‐tRNA by Aeromonas salmonicida selenocysteine synthase (SelA). Sec‐allo‐tRNA variants were able to read through five UAG codons in the fdhF mRNA coding for E. coli formate dehydrogenase H, and produced active FDHH with five Sec residues in E. coli. Engineering of the E. coli selenium metabolism along with mutational changes in allo‐tRNA and SelA improved the yield and purity of recombinant human glutathione peroxidase 1 (to over 80 %). Thus, our allo‐tRNAUTu system offers a new selenoprotein engineering platform.
Mechanical Reliability in Potable Reuse: Evaluation of an Advanced Water Purification Facility
Authors: Pecson Brian M. , Chen Elise C. , Triolo Sarah C. , Pisarenko Aleksey N. , Olivieri Simon , Idica Eileen , Kolakovsky Aviv , Trussell R. Shane , Trussell R. Rhodes
Published: April 2018

The mechanical reliability of a direct potable reuse (DPR) treatment train—consisting of ozone, biological activated carbon, microfiltration/ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultraviolet light with advanced oxidation—was evaluated using critical component analysis at the Demonstration Pure Water Facility in San Diego, Calif. Operators maintained logs of all mechanical issues that occurred over a yearlong test period; these were used to calculate several reliability metrics for the unit processes. Mechanical issues were also cross‐referenced with treatment performance data to determine whether any “critical” failures—i.e., those that impacted pathogen reduction performance—occurred. The results demonstrated that no critical failures occurred, though the communication systems experienced critical malfunctions. These malfunctions triggered an immediate system shutdown, mitigating the potential risk to public health. While several components experienced failures, malfunctions, and/or maintenance events, the processes maintained a high degree of availability, demonstrating that DPR facilities can be designed with a high degree of mechanical reliability.
Pilot‐Scale Removal of Total and Hexavalent Chromium From Groundwater Using Stannous Chloride
Authors: Kennedy Anthony M. , Korak Julie A. , Flint Leah C. , Hoffman Catherine M. , Arias‐Paic Miguel
Published: April 2018

Alternative processes for hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) removal from drinking water continue to be of interest for utilities despite the existence of several established technologies. Stannous chloride (SnCl2) can reduce Cr(VI) to trivalent chromium, but research has been limited, especially related to the filterability of total chromium (Cr(T)) following reduction. At the pilot scale, SnCl2 was tested over a range of doses in three groundwaters with naturally occurring Cr(VI) concentrations ranging from 0.020 to 0.090 mg/L. Stannous chloride was found to be effective as a reductant at doses <2 mg/L and contact times <5 min. A tin‐to‐chromium molar dose ratio of 4 was sufficient for reducing Cr(VI) to below 0.010 mg/L. Cartridge filters were unable to practically remove Cr(T) following reduction, but a standard‐design sand filter was able to remove Cr(T) to <0.010 mg/L.
Searching ECOD for Homologous Domains by Sequence and Structure
Authors: Schaeffer R. Dustin , Liao Yuxing , Grishin Nick V.
Published: April 2018

ECOD is a database of evolutionary domains from structures deposited in the PDB. Domains in ECOD are classified by a mixed manual/automatic method wherein the bulk of newly deposited structures are classified automatically by protein‐protein BLAST. Those structures that cannot be classified automatically are referred to manual curators who use a combination of alignment results, functional analysis, and close reading of the literature to generate novel assignments. ECOD differs from other structural domain resources in that it is continually updated, classifying thousands of proteins per week. ECOD recognizes homology as its key organizing concept, rather than structural or sequence similarity alone. Such a classification scheme provides functional information about proteins of interest by placing them in the correct evolutionary context among all proteins of known structure. This unit demonstrates how to access ECOD via the Web and how to search the database by sequence or structure. It also details the distributable data files available for large‐scale bioinformatics users. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Live‐Cell Imaging and Analysis with Multiple Genetically Encoded Reporters
Authors: Pargett Michael , Albeck John G.
Published: April 2018

Genetically encoded live‐cell reporters measure signaling pathway activity at the cellular level with high temporal resolution, often revealing a high degree of cell‐to‐cell heterogeneity. By using multiple spectrally distinct reporters within the same cell, signal transmission from one node to another within a signaling pathway can be analyzed to quantify factors such as signaling efficiency and delay. With other reporter configurations, correlation between different signaling pathways can be quantified. Such analyses can be used to establish the mechanisms and consequences of cell‐to‐cell heterogeneity and can inform new models of the functional properties of signaling pathways. In this unit, we describe an approach for designing and executing live‐cell multiplexed reporter experiments. We also describe approaches for analyzing the resulting time‐course data to quantify correlations and trends between the measured parameters at the single‐cell level. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Elimination of Mitochondrial DNA from Mammalian Cells
Authors: Khozhukhar Natalya , Spadafora Domenico , Rodriguez Yelitza , Alexeyev Mikhail
Published: April 2018

To cope with DNA damage, mitochondria developed a pathway by which severely damaged or unrepairable mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) molecules are abandoned and degraded, and new molecules are resynthesized using intact templates, if available. In this unit, we describe a method that harnesses this pathway to completely eliminate mtDNA from mammalian cells by transiently overexpressing the Y147A mutant of human uracil‐N‐glycosylase (mUNG1). We also provide an alternate protocol for mtDNA depletion using combined treatment with ethidium bromide (EtBr) and dideoxycytidine (ddC). Support protocols detail approaches for (1) genotyping ρ° cells of human, mouse, and rat origin by PCR; (2) quantitation of mtDNA by quantitative PCR (qPCR); and (3) preparation of calibrator plasmids for mtDNA quantitation. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
PCR Amplification of Base‐Modified DNA
Authors: Eremeeva Elena , Herdewijn Piet
Published: April 2018

An efficient PCR amplification of various templates (short 57‐mer, random 67‐ and 82‐mer, and long DNA) with base‐modified nucleoside triphosphates is presented here. Using 5‐substituted pyrimidine and 7‐substituted‐7‐deaza‐ or 8‐substituted purine nucleoside triphosphates as substrates for thermostable DNA polymerases [Taq and Vent (exo–)], successful PCR amplification of partially or entirely modified DNA libraries and long DNA constructs (up to 1.5 kb) is achieved. Visualization of double‐stranded PCR product formation is improved through the use of primers with different fluorescent labels. This allows one to monitor the efficiency of modified substrate incorporation and the enzymatic recognition of the modified template during PCR. The redesigned fully base‐modified DNA (denoted ‘DZA’) can be utilized for the straightforward production of diverse libraries for in vitro selection of aptamer and catalytic nucleic acids as well as for the synthesis of artificial genetic templates, replicons, or complex vectors. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Categorization of weathering stresses for photovoltaic modules
Authors: Koehl Michael , Heck Markus , Wiesmeier Stefan
Published: April 2018

Solar energy conversion requires permanent outdoor operation of essential components such as photovoltaic modules, solar collectors, or reflectors. They are exposed to weathering stresses. The stress levels depend on the local climates. Monitoring of climatic properties and sample properties in different climatic zones (alpine, arid, maritime, moderate, and tropical) during several years provided the base for categorization of these climates. The local climate does not differ very much from year to year in terms of frequency distributions, but big differences are found for different regions or climatic zones. Especially, the solar irradiation is very location‐dependent. The alpine location shows the highest UV irradiation. The UV fraction of the solar irradiation is varying between 2.2% (tropics) and 4.7% (alps). The temperature histograms can be modeled by Gaussian distribution functions. The maritime histogram is very slim and high, showing the cooling by the sea and the wind. Several approaches for a categorization of these local climates can be applied: Mean temperatures, effective temperatures, or the corresponding constant testing time for fictive degradation processes with arbitrary activation energy. The categorization of the relative humidity revealed humid climates in the alpine and the tropical test site, when considering the time of wetness (rh > 80%). Obviously, the humidity stress or the corrosivity would be very different at those sites. Therefore, a more holistic approach considering more stress factors simultaneously would be more appropriate for the categorization. The interaction between the samples and the climate creates the so‐called micro‐climate which is the real stress on the samples, such as surface temperature, daily temperature cycles, surface humidity, or temperature‐enhanced photo‐degradation. The conditions for accelerated life testing (ALT) modeled on the base of monitored climatic data and sample temperatures are different for the different locations. They offer another possibility for categorization of the climatic stresses and the option for designing climate‐adapted components.
Synthesis of N‐Aryl Formyl Pyrrole from γ‐Lactam Derivatives: A Highlight
Authors: Barman Gopa
Published: April 2018

Pyrrole containing analogs are considered as a potential source of biologically active compounds and have significant set of advantageous properties and are found in many natural products. A number of methods have been reported till now to synthesize pyrrole and pyrrole containing analogs. This review article outlines highlight the recent progresses in pyrrole synthesis from γ‐lactam derivatives.
Utility of volumetric contrast‐enhanced and diffusion‐weighted MRI in differentiating between common primary hypervascular liver tumors
Authors: Zarghampour Manijeh , Fouladi Daniel F. , Pandey Ankur , Ghasabeh Mounes Aliyari , Pandey Pallavi , Varzaneh Farnaz Najmi , Khoshpouri Pegah , Shao Nannan , Pan Li , Grimm Robert , Kamel Ihab R.
Published: April 2018

Background

Differentiating between hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), and hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) is usually achievable by MRI. However, in some cases with atypical imaging findings accurate diagnosis may be difficult.

Purpose

To assess the diagnostic value of volumetric contrast‐enhanced (CE) and volumetric diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in differentiating between HCC, FNH, and HCA.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

In all, 143 patients (206 lesions): 42 HCA (81 lesions), 51 FNH (65 lesions), and 50 HCC (60 lesions).

Field Strength/sequence

1.5T MRI, T1‐T2WI, DWI.

Assessment

Patients underwent CE‐MRI and DWI (b = 0, 750 mm2/s). Volumetric assessment of lesions' contrast enhancement and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) was performed with semiautomatic software after 3D image registration and segmentation by an observer and compared between three lesion groups. The diagnosis of lesions was based on histopathology, typical MRI findings, and/or follow‐up.

Statistical Tests

Independent t‐test was used to compare parameters between two groups, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) between three groups, and receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis to define under‐curve area and optimal cutoff.

Results

Mean values (±standard deviation) for HCC, FNH, and HCA, respectively, were: 1) arterial enhancement (%), 40.5 ± 13.2, 88.6 ± 32.6, 69.6 ± 25.1; 2) venous enhancement (%) 72.4 ± 22.1, 95.2 ± 30.9, 80.7 ± 30.6; and 3) ADC (10−6 mm2/s) 1404.5 ± 168.1, 1413.4 ± 232.1, 1070.1 ± 232.1. ADC was the best differentiator of HCA from FNH (at 1211 × 10−6 mm2/s; sensitivity 80.4%, specificity 71.7%) and arterial enhancement was the best differentiator of HCC from both HCA (at 48%; sensitivity 80.0%, specificity 80.5%) and FNH (at 52%; sensitivity 85.7%, specificity 85.4%). A combination of arterial enhancement and ADC (at 50% and 1227 × 10−6 mm2/s) differentiated three types of tumors with high specificity (87.9%).

Data Conclusion

Volumetric CE‐MRI and volumetric DWI can help to differentiate between HCC, FNH, and HCA.

Level of Evidence: 1

Technical Efficacy: Stage 2

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;48:1080–1090.
Influence of the electron buffer layer on the photovoltaic performance of planar Sb2(SxSe1‐x)3 solar cells
Authors: Jaramillo‐Quintero Oscar Andrés , Rincón Marina Elizabeth , Vásquez‐García Geovanni , Nair P. K.
Published: April 2018

Appropriate selection of electron buffer layer and understanding its impact on the photo‐generated charge transfer dynamics at the interfaces are critical to enhance the efficiency of solar cells. By optimizing a multilayer electron buffer composed of CdS thin film deposited on TiO2 compact layer, we obtained a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.47% for a planar solar cell of Sb2(SxSe1‐x)3 absorber. The PCE was significantly enhanced in the photovoltaic parameters of planar solar cells fabricated with single‐layer configuration: for example, PCE of 3.99% and 0.79% were obtained when either CdS or TiO2, respectively, were used. Surface photovoltage spectroscopy, transient photovoltage, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analyses indicated that the PCE improvement can be ascribed to a combination of 2 factors: (i) better separation and transfer of the photo‐excited free charge, provided by the beneficial energy level alignment between TiO2 and CdS layers, and (ii) sulfur passivation upon incorporation of CdS in a multilayer configuration causing a reduction in the trap states at the interface with Sb2(SxSe1‐x)3.
Overall energy assessment and integration optimization process of semitransparent PV glazing technologies
Authors: Skandalos Nikolaos , Karamanis Dimitris , Peng Jinqing , Yang Hongxing
Published: April 2018

In order to reduce the building's energy demand, different glass innovative technologies are currently under intensive research and development. However, applicability of a particular technology requires its extensive environmental and energy characterization in building integration. In this work, overall performance (thermal, optical, and electrical) of semitransparent PV windows from different technologies has been assessed and compared with conventional windows. Characterization studies include both field measurements and numerical simulations and reveal the energy saving potential of PV windows on the overall energy demand of an office room and Mediterranean climate conditions. Finally, building integration is optimized by maximizing energy efficiency while keeping acceptable indoor visual comfort for different PV technology, ratio of the glazing surface replaced by PV windows (cover ratio), and orientation.
Comparative characterization of thermal isomerization rates of 6‐phenyl‐1,5‐diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane at convection and microwave heating
Authors: Kornilova Tatiana A. , Kostikov Rafael R. , Khlebnikov Alexander F. , Zenkevich Igor G.
Published: April 2018

Rate constants of thermal isomerization of 6‐phenyl‐1,5‐diazabicyclo[3.1.0]hexane into 1‐(benzyl)‐4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐pyrazole at convection and microwave heating in toluene and chlorobenzene (solvents) were determined within the temperature range 90°C to 120°С. These data were used for the calculation of activation parameters of isomerization. It is shown that microwave heating increases the rate constants at the same temperature by a factor of 2 to 2.5 as compared with those using convection heating. The reason is that the effective temperature of microwave heating exceeds that of convection heating by 6°C to 9°С in toluene and by 12°C to 20°С in chlorobenzene as solvent.
Thermodynamics of Boron Removal from Silicon Using CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 Slags
Authors: Jakobsson Lars Klemet , Tangstad Merete
Published: April 2018

Slag refining is one of few metallurgical methods for removal of boron from silicon. It is important to know the thermodynamic properties of boron in slags to understand the refining process. The relation of the distribution coefficient of boron to the activity of silica, partial pressure of oxygen, and capacity of slags for boron oxide was investigated. The link between these parameters explains why the distribution coefficient of boron does not change much with changing slag composition. In addition, the thermodynamic properties of dilute boron oxide in CaO-MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 slags was determined. The ratio of the activity coefficient of boron oxide and silica was found to be the most important parameter for understanding changes in the distribution coefficient of boron for different slags. Finally, the relation between the activity coefficient of boron oxide and slag structure was investigated. It was found that the structure can explain how the distribution coefficient of boron changes depending on slag composition.
The derivative nonlinear Schrödinger equation on the half line
Authors: Erdoğan M.B. , Gürel T.B. , Tzirakis N.
Published: April 2018

We study the initial-boundary value problem for the derivative nonlinear Schrödinger (DNLS) equation. More precisely we study the wellposedness theory and the regularity properties of the DNLS equation on the half line. We prove almost sharp local wellposedness, nonlinear smoothing, and small data global wellposedness in the energy space. One of the obstructions is that the crucial gauge transformation we use replaces the boundary condition with a nonlocal one. We resolve this issue by running an additional fixed point argument. Our method also implies almost sharp local and small energy global wellposedness, and an improved smoothing estimate for the quintic Schrödinger equation on the half line. In the last part of the paper we consider the DNLS equation on

\mathbb{R}

and prove smoothing estimates by combining the restricted norm method with a normal form transformation.
Asymptotic stability of a composite wave of two viscous shock waves for the one-dimensional radiative Euler equations
Authors: Fan Lili , Ruan Lizhi , Xiang Wei
Published: April 2018

This paper is devoted to the study of the wellposedness of the radiative Euler equations. By employing the anti-derivative method, we show the unique global-in-time existence and the asymptotic stability of the solutions of the radiative Euler equations for the composite wave of two viscous shock waves with small strength. This method developed here is also helpful to other related problems with similar analytical difficulties.
Physical measures for the geodesic flow tangent to a transversally conformal foliation
Authors: Alvarez Sébastien , Yang Jiagang
Published: April 2018

We consider a transversally conformal foliation

\mathscr{F}

of a closed manifold

M

endowed with a smooth Riemannian metric whose restriction to each leaf is negatively curved. We prove that it satisfies the following dichotomy. Either there is a transverse holonomy-invariant measure for

\mathscr{F}

, or the foliated geodesic flow admits a finite number of physical measures, which have negative transverse Lyapunov exponents and whose basin covers a set full for the Lebesgue measure. We also give necessary and sufficient conditions for the foliated geodesic flow to be partially hyperbolic in the case where the foliation is transverse to a projective circle bundle over a closed hyperbolic surface.
Wishes and preferences for an online lifestyle program for brain health—A mixed methods study
Authors: Wesselman Linda M.P. , Schild Ann‐Katrin , Coll‐Padros Nina , van der Borg Wieke E. , Meurs Judith H.P. , Hooghiemstra Astrid M. , Slot Rosalinde E.R. , Sannemann Lena , Rami Lorena , Molinuevo José Luis , Bouwman Femke H. , Jessen Frank , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Sikkes Sietske A.M. ,   Euro‐SCD working group
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Individuals with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) are at increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and could benefit from a prevention strategy targeting lifestyle factors. Making a program available through the Internet gives a widespread reach at low cost, but suboptimal adherence is a major threat to effectiveness. As a first step in developing an online lifestyle program (OLP), we aimed to identify factors that are barriers and/or facilitators for the use of an OLP in individuals with SCD in three European countries.

Methods

As part of the Euro‐SCD project, SCD subjects were recruited at memory clinics in the Netherlands, Germany, and Spain. We combined quantitative and qualitative methods, using a mixed methods approach. We conducted an online 18‐item survey on the preferences of SCD patients for an OLP (N = 238). In addition, we held semi‐structured interviews (N = 22) to gain in‐depth understanding of factors acting as a facilitator and/or barrier for intended use of an OLP. Audio recordings were transcribed verbatim. Content analysis was performed.

Results

One hundred seventy‐six individuals completed the survey (response rate 74%). Almost all participants regularly use the Internet (97%). Participants reported trustworthiness (93%), user‐friendliness (91%), and up‐to‐date information (88%) as main facilitators, whereas having contact with other users (26%), needing an account (21%), and assignments (16%) were reported as barriers. Barriers differed slightly between countries, but facilitators were largely similar. In‐depth interviews revealed that both program characteristics (e.g., trustworthiness, user‐friendliness, and personalization) and personal factors (e.g., expectancy to receive negative feedback) are likely to influence the intended use of an OLP.

Discussion

Involving users provided in‐depth understanding of factors associated with the intended use of an OLP for brain health. Both program characteristics and personal factors are likely to influence the use of an OLP. Based on this input from the end‐users, we will develop an OLP for individuals with SCD.
UNSPEAKABLE WORDS, UNMASTERABLE FEELINGS: CALAMITY AND THE MAKING OF HISTORY IN ASANTE
Authors: MCCASKIE TOM
Published: April 2018

The present article explores crucial aspects of the Asante understanding and construction of their own historical experience. Specifically, it historicizes the royal oaths of the first two Asante rulers Osei Tutu (d. 1717) and Opoku Ware (d. 1750). These have long been understood to be fundamental elements in the working of Asante society and culture, but here they are situated precisely as historical testaments and mnemonics. Attention is paid to current debates on matters of emotion, affect and performance, but the focus of the article is an empirical and exemplary investigation of history-making among the Asante.
Long reading range for the frequency coded Chipless RFID system based on reflectarray antennas
Authors: Khaliel Maher , El-Awamry Ahmed , Fawky Abdelfattah , Kaiser Thomas
Published: April 2018

This work proposes the utilization of a high gain and pencil beam reflectarray (RA) antenna at the reader of the frequency coded (FC) chipless radio-frequency identification (RFID) system to minimize the environmental reflections and increase the reading range. Moreover, the reader antenna should operate over ultra wideband (UWB) range of frequencies to accommodate multiple bits. However, the conventional antenna arrays cannot operate over UWB range of frequencies with high gain and pencil beam characteristics. Therefore, a novel UWB RA antenna dedicated to the chipless RFID reader is developed. The developed RA antenna operates over UWB range of frequencies from 4 to 6GHzto fulfill the requirements of the FC chipless RFID system. Therefore, the antenna is successfully integrated with the FC chipless RFID tags, and a reading range of 1mis achieved.
Rethinking Debt: The Evolution of Private Credit Markets in Preindustrial France
Authors: Dermineur Elise M.
Published: April 2018

This article focuses on traditional private credit markets in eighteenth-century France through the examination of notarized loan deeds and to a lesser extent civil court records. It examines in particular how credit markets functioned and how they developed in the eighteenth century. It argues that traditional credit markets featured norms of solidarity, cooperation, and fairness, and allowed considerable flexibility and input from both creditors and debtors. But in the middle of the eighteenth century, this market experienced several major changes. Not only did the volume of exchange and the number of notarized credit contracts dramatically increase, engendering a standardization of contracts and a greater resort to external institutions, but a new group of investors modified the traditional norms and practices of exchange. This article concludes that the private credit market shifted from an institution in which input, negotiation, and flexibility prevailed to a more rigid institution in which rules and rigor applied.
“Religion and Nation Are One”: Social Identity Complexity and the Roots of Religious Intolerance in Turkish Nationalism
Authors: Goalwin Gregory J.
Published: April 2018

Turkish nationalism has long been an enigma for scholars interested in the formation of national identity. The nationalist movement that succeeded in crafting the Republic of Turkey relied upon rhetoric that defined the nation in explicitly secular, civic, and territorial terms. Though the earliest scholarship on Turkish nationalism supported this perspective, more recent research has pointed to Turkey's efforts to homogenize the new state as evidence of the importance of ethnicity, and particularly religion, in constructing Turkish national identity. Yet this marked mismatch between political rhetoric and politics on the ground is perplexing. If Turkey was meant to be a secular and civic state, why did Turkish nationalist policies place such a heavy emphasis on ethnic and religious purity? Moreover, why did religious identity become such a salient characteristic for determining membership in the national community and for defining national identity? This article draws upon historical research and social identity complexity theory to analyze this seeming dichotomy between religious and civic definitions of the Turkish nation. I argue that the subjective overlap between religious and civic ingroups during the late Ottoman Empire and efforts by nationalists to rally the populace through religious appeals explains the persistence of religious definitions of the nation despite the Turkish nationalist movement's civic rhetoric, and accounts for much of the Turkish state's religiously oriented policies and exclusionary practices toward religious minorities in its early decades.
Medieval Roots of the Modern State: The Conditional Effects of Geopolitical Pressure on Early Modern State Building
Authors: Møller Jørgen
Published: April 2018

The modern state arose in Western Europe and was transplanted to European settler colonies. The question about why Western Europe developed high-capacity states bound by the rule of law remains a core concern of modern social science. Prior scholarship dealing with this issue has generally favored different variants of a war-and-state-making perspective. However, generalized geopolitical pressure does little to explain why the modern state arose in Europe and not in other historical multistate systems. This article argues that the European outcome was conditional on the prior existence of “medieval communalism,” that is, on strong norms and institutions of communal representation, based on units such as parishes and towns. It was due to these initial conditions that geopolitical pressure facilitated not only a strengthening of state capacity but also the development of checks on state power in the form of the rule of law. This argument is first theorized and then illustrated empirically using a number of examples from both within and beyond Europe. Against this backdrop, the implications for present-day state building are briefly discussed.
New Approach to Estimate Tidal Climatology From Ground‐ and Space‐Based Observations
Authors: Zhou Xu , Wan Weixing , Yu You , Ning Baiqi , Hu Lianhuan , Yue Xinan
Published: April 2018

This paper proposes a new approach to obtain seasonal variations of global tides for the horizontal winds in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere region, based on daily tides derived from the global coverage of the TIMED Doppler Interferometer (TIDI) and the local‐time coverage of a meteor radar chain. The daily variations of different mesosphere and lower thermosphere tides are obtained taking advantage of empirical tidal mode (ETM), which is first derived from Global Scale Wave Model using empirical orthogonal function analysis. ETM displays latitudinal and vertical features of each tidal component in a realistic background atmosphere with dissipation effects. After fitting the observations by ETM day by day, the monthly mean of daily fitted results is then used to describe tidal monthly features. Seasonal variations of three major tidal components were found: DW1 in both zonal and meridional winds usually has two maxima around equinoxes, DE3 in zonal winds achieves their maximum in September, while that in meridional winds becomes strongest in February and November. SW2 in zonal winds reaches largest amplitudes in May in the southern hemisphere, and meridional winds has minor peaks in February and November in the northern hemisphere. At last, we superpose each tidal component with the same frequency to reconstruct the global diurnal and semidiurnal tidal winds. Comparing them with both of TIDI 60‐day average winds and outputs of Global Scale Wave Model model, similar characteristics and magnitudes indicate their consistency and confirm the reliability and feasibility of this new approach.
On the Use of Topside RO‐Derived Electron Density for Model Validation
Authors: Shaikh M. M. , Nava B. , Haralambous H.
Published: April 2018

In this work, the standard Abel inversion has been exploited as a powerful observation tool, which may be helpful to model the topside of the ionosphere and therefore to validate ionospheric models. A thorough investigation on the behavior of radio occultation (RO)‐derived topside electron density (Ne(h))‐profiles has therefore been performed with the main purpose to understand whether it is possible to predict the accuracy of a single RO‐retrieved topside by comparing the peak density and height of the retrieved profile to the true values. As a first step, a simulation study based on the use of the NeQuick2 model has been performed to show that when the RO‐derived electron density peak and height match the true peak values, the full topside Ne(h)‐profile may be considered accurate. In order to validate this hypothesis with experimental data, electron density profiles obtained from four different incoherent scatter radars have therefore been considered together with co‐located RO‐derived Ne(h)‐profiles. The evidence presented in this paper show that in all cases examined, if the incoherent scatter radar and the corresponding co‐located RO profile have matching peak parameter values, their topsides are in very good agreement. The simulation results presented in this work also highlighted the importance of considering the occultation plane azimuth while inverting RO data to obtain Ne(h)‐profile. In particular, they have indicated that there is a preferred range of azimuths of the occultation plane (80°–100°) for which the difference between the “true” and the RO‐retrieved Ne(h)‐profile in the topside is generally minimal.
Modulation of the MJO and North Pacific Storm Track Relationship by the QBO
Authors: Wang Jiabao , Kim Hye‐Mi , Chang Edmund K. M. , Son Seok‐Woo
Published: April 2018

This study demonstrates a possible impact of the quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) on the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO)‐related North Pacific storm track (NPST) change during October–March for the period of 1979–2016. The NPST shows significant intraseasonal changes in response to the MJO. In general, when the MJO convection is located over the Indian Ocean (western to central Pacific), the NPST tends to shift poleward (southward). This MJO‐related NPST change has larger amplitude during the easterly phase of the QBO (EQBO) than during its westerly phase (WQBO). The spatial distribution of this NPST change also exhibits significant differences between the two QBO phases with a zonally elongated pattern during EQBO winters but separated into two centers during WQBO winters. Diagnoses of the dynamical processes associated with the NPST change indicate the dominant roles of the baroclinic energy conversion and downstream energy propagation. The analysis of intraseasonal flow change indicates a larger amplitude of the MJO‐related baroclinicity over the North Pacific. This is likely due to a stronger MJO and associated Rossby wave source in EQBO winters, which may give rise to the enhanced amplitude of the NPST change. On the other hand, different spatial distribution of the NPST change is likely a result of a direct impact of the QBO on the NPST. These results suggest that the QBO impact needs to be considered for better reproduction of the MJO‐NPST teleconnection in general circulation models, which may also benefit subseasonal prediction of extratropical storm activities.
Salt Dynamics in Coastal Marshes: Formation of Hypersaline Zones
Authors: Shen Chengji , Zhang Chenming , Xin Pei , Kong Jun , Li Ling
Published: April 2018

Salt is a key solute in salt marshes and under the influence of evapotranspiration can accumulate to a high concentration level in the marsh soil and precipitate in the solid form to become a significant stressor for plants, affecting marsh plant productivity and ecological zonation. Numerical simulations of coupled pore water flow and salt transport were conducted to examine how spring‐neap tides and evaporation combine to influence salt dynamics and distribution patterns in marshes. The salt pan formation was simulated with a sandy loam marsh soil subjected to a medium rate of potential evaporation. The critical condition for the salt pan formation was underpinned by hydraulic connection between the marsh surface and water table to sustain evaporation in the supratidal zone. Both low soil permeability and overly high potential evaporation were found to break the hydraulic connection. In this case, the surface soil salinity increased gradually over the intertidal zone to a maximum around the spring high tide mark followed by a rapid decrease to a lower constant level across the supratidal zone. This salinity distribution pattern has also been observed in the field. In both salt marshes with and without salt pans, excessive salt accumulated on the marsh surface due to evaporation was removed by tidally induced circulating flow and/or flow driven by density gradients associated with the accumulated salt. The salt dynamics and distribution patterns revealed here, especially the salt pan formation simulated for the first time, have important implications for studies of marsh plant growth and overall eco‐functions.
Compact prototype microfabricated gas chromatographic analyzer for autonomous determinations of VOC mixtures at typical workplace concentrations
Authors: Wang Junqi , Bryant-Genevier Jonathan , Nuñovero Nicolas , Zhang Chengyi , Kraay Bruce , Zhan Changhua , Scholten Kee , Nidetz Robert , Buggaveeti Sanketh , Zellers Edward T.
Published: April 2018

This report concerns a benchtop prototype instrument containing a gas chromatographic microanalytical system (μGC) designed for the selective determination of multiple airborne volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at concentrations in the vicinity of recommended occupational exposure limits. The core microsystem consists of a set of discrete Si-microfabricated devices: a dual-cavity, adsorbent-packed micro-preconcentrator-focuser (μPCF) chip that quantitatively captures and thermally desorbs/injects VOCs with vapor pressures between ~0.03 and 13 kPa; tandem micro-column (μcolumn) chips with cross-linked PDMS wall-coated stationary phases capable of temperature-programmed separations; and an integrated array of five μchemiresistors (μCR) coated with different thiolate-monolayer protected gold nanoparticle (MPN) interface films that quantifies and further differentiates among the analytes by virtue of the response patterns generated. Other key components include a pre-trap for low-volatility interferences, a split-flow injection valve, and an onboard He carrier–gas canister. The assembled unit measures 19×30×14 cm, weighs ~3.5 kg, operates on AC power, and is laptop/LabVIEW controlled. Component- and system-level tests of performance demonstrated injection bandwidths <1 s, a μcolumn capacity of ≥8 μg injected mass, linear calibration curves, no humidity effects, excellent medium-term (that is, 1 week) reproducibility, autonomous operation for 8 h, detection limits below Threshold Limit Values (TLV) for 10 mL air samples collected in 1 min, and response patterns that enhanced vapor recognition. The determination of a 17-VOC mixture in the presence of seven interferences was performed in 4 min. Results augur well for adapting the microsystem to an all-MEMS wearable μGC currently under parallel development.
A DFT study on Zr-SBA-15 catalyzed conversion of ethanol to 1,3-butadiene
Authors: Dong Xiuqin , Lu Jia , Yu Yingzhe , Zhang Minhua
Published: April 2018

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations have been used to elucidate the influence of the surface properties of Zr-SBA-15 on the conversion of ethanol to 1,3-butadiene at the molecular level.
Synthesis of heterogeneous Ru(ii)-1,2,3-triazole catalyst supported over SBA-15: application to the hydrogen transfer reaction and unusual highly selective 1,4-disubstituted triazole formation via multicomponent click reaction
Authors: Sharma Priti , Rathod Jayant , Singh A. P. , Kumar Pradeep , Sasson Yoel
Published: April 2018

Remarkable reactivity of solid catalyst in H2O medium for the regioselective 1,4-disubstituted 1,2,3-triazole with excellent yield in one pot.
Synergism induced exceptional capacity and complete reversibility in Mg–Y thin films: enabling next generation metal hydride electrodes
Authors: Fu Kai , Chen Jun , Xiao Rui , Zheng Jie , Tian Wenhuai , Li Xingguo
Published: April 2018

A novel strategy to design high capacity MH electrodes without using non-hydrogen-absorbing elements by inducing synergism.
Morphology controlled graphene–alloy nanoparticle hybrids with tunable carbon monoxide conversion to carbon dioxide
Authors: Devi M. Manolata , Dolai N. , Sreehala S. , Jaques Y. M. , Mishra R. S. Kumar , Galvao Douglas S. , Tiwary C. S. , Sharma Sudhanshu , Biswas Krishanu
Published: April 2018

Selective oxidation of CO to CO2using metallic or alloy nanoparticles as catalysts can solve two major problems of energy requirements and environmental pollution.