bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Submicron crystalline buildup and size‐dependent energy harvesting characteristic in PZN–PZT ternary ferroelectrics
Authors: Yue Yunge , Hou Yudong , Zheng Mupeng , Yan Xiaodong , Zhu Mankang
Published: June 2017

Piezoelectric energy harvester converts low‐frequency vibrational energy in the environment into electrical energy, enabling the purpose of self‐supplying power for low‐energy consumption devices. The key to miniaturizing energy harvester is the buildup of the submicron‐grained ceramic with a high transduction coefficient (d×g), which is still a big challenge from a technical point of view. In this work, the popular ternary system of Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3–Pb(Zr0.5Ti0.5)O3 (PZN–PZT) has been selected as objective compound, and the submicron‐grained ceramics were prepared by a combination of high‐energy ball milling and pressureless sintering technology. The results revealed that nanocrystalline PZN–PZT powders can be synthesized by one step mechanochemical route without the calcination stage. Using these nanopowders as precursors, dense ceramics with different grain size have been prepared through tailoring the sintering temperature. The study of size‐dependent energy harvesting characteristic evidenced an optimum transduction coefficient of 7980×10−15 m2/N was obtained for 950°C sintered specimen, which has uniform microstructure with mean grain size of 0.33 μm. In the mode of the cantilever‐type energy harvester constructed by this material, the output power at low frequency of 89 Hz was as high as 69 μW at an acceleration of 10 m/s2, showing the suitability for piezoelectric generators harvesting environmental vibrational energy.
Strong electromechanical coupling in paraelectric KTa1‐xNbxO3 crystals
Authors: Meng Xiangda , Tian Hao , Tan Peng , Huang Fei , Zhang Rui , Zhou Zhongxiang
Published: June 2017

A rare electromechanical resonance excited by a weak (<10 V/mm) alternating‐current electric field alone is observed in paraelectric KTa1‐xNbxO3 crystals near the Curie temperature. We show that the transformation from a disordered to an ordered polar‐nanoregion arrangement under the electric field enhances the electrostrictive effect near the phase transition, leading to strong electromechanical coupling. This result establishes the fundamental correlations between the polar nanoregions and the macroscopic physical properties in relaxor ferroelectrics.
Rapid synthesis, electrical, and mechanical properties of polycrystalline Fe2AlB2 bulk from elemental powders
Authors: Li Ning , Bai Yuelei , Wang Shuai , Zheng Yongting , Kong Fanyu , Qi Xinxin , Wang Rongguo , He Xiaodong , Duff Andrew Ian
Published: June 2017

Polycrystalline Fe2AlB2 bulk including minor Al2O3 is synthesized by reactive hot pressing from Fe, Al, and B powders at 1200°C and 30 MPa for 30 minutes, with a relative density of 96%. The present approach enables a markedly reduced holding time compared with previous studies. The derived Fe2AlB2 shows an electrical resistivity of 2.27±0.01 μΩ·m, Vickers hardness of 10.2±0.2 GPa, flexural strength of 232±25 MPa, compressive strength of 2101±202 MPa, fracture toughness of 5.4±0.2 MPa·m1/2 and work of fracture of 117±12 J/m2. No dominant indentation cracks are observed, indicating that Fe2AlB2 may be quite damage tolerant. Interestingly, a noncatastrophic failure is present in the SENB test, with a high work of fracture. The energy‐absorbing mechanisms in inhibiting crack formation are delamination and pullout of Fe2AlB2 grains.
Uropygial gland volume and malaria infection are related to survival in migratory house martins
Authors: Magallanes S. , García‐Longoria L. , López‐Calderón C. , Reviriego M. , de Lope F. , Møller A. P. , Marzal A.
Published: June 2017

Pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and malaria and related haemosporidians provoke negative effects on the fitness of their hosts. Animals have developed a range of defensive mechanisms to resist or eliminate these parasitic infections and their negative fitness costs. The uropygial gland secretion has been proposed to act as defensive barrier of skin and plumage in the fight against bacteria and fungi, and may prevent birds from acquiring haemosporidian infections. Thus, the secretion of uropygial glands of birds may favour survival of individuals. However, whether uropygial gland secretion influence survival remains unknown. Here we explore if the size of the uropygial gland and malaria infection influence survival of house martins Delichon urbica. We showed, for the first time, that the volume of the uropygial gland positively predicted survival prospects of malaria infected house martins. Malaria infected birds had the lowest probability of survival, with the effect of gland size on survival prospects depending on infection: infected house martins with larger uropygial glands were better able to survive to the next breeding season, while infected birds with small uropygial glands were not. These results highlight the importance of uropygial gland secretion in the life history of wild birds.
Clinical surrogate markers for predicting metabolic syndrome in middle‐aged and elderly Chinese
Authors: Li Rui , Li Qi , Cui Min , Yin Zegang , Li Ling , Zhong Tingting , Huo Yingchao , Xie Peng
Published: June 2017

Aims/Introduction

The present study evaluated the ability of lipid accumulation product (LAP), visceral adiposity index (VAI), and the product of triglycerides and glucose (TyG), three novel markers, in identifying metabolic syndrome (MetS) with different criteria in middle‐aged and elderly Chinese.

Materials and Methods

During June 2012 to January 2013, 992 consecutive patients (age ≥40 years) were enrolled at Daping Hospital. The criteria of MetS were based on the International Diabetes Federation and the modified National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III. VAI, LAP and TyG were computed based on a published mathematical model.

Results

The prevalence of MetS was 42.8%. The receiver operating characteristic curve found LAP, VAI and TyG were positively related to MetS in both criteria. The optimal cut‐offs of VAI, LAP and TyG for the modified National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III and International Diabetes Federation criteria were 2.015, 31.465 and 8.706, and 2.035, 37.99 and 8.697, respectively. After adjustment of potential confounding factors, VAI, LAP and TyG were significantly correlated with MetS in all criteria according to optimal cut‐offs. For MetS, reliable predictive value was observed in different subgroups (age and sex). LAP showed the greatest area under the curve in MetS with the International Diabetes Federation definition (area under the curve 0.887, 95% confidence interval 0.852–0.922).

Conclusions

AP, VAI and TyG were reliable surrogate markers for identifying MetS in middle‐aged and elderly Chinese. LAP could be a better parameter than VAI and TyG for predicting MetS in the present study.
A Cumulative Deficit Laboratory Test–based Frailty Index: Personal and Neighborhood Associations
Authors: King Katherine E. , Fillenbaum Gerda G. , Cohen Harvey J.
Published: June 2017

Objectives

To explore the association between a newly developed cumulative laboratory‐based frailty index (FI) and intrinsic (personal) and extrinsic (social, environmental) characteristics.

Design

Cross‐sectional longitudinal study.

Setting

The third and fourth waves of the community‐representative, five‐county, 10‐year Duke Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly study, carried out in a health service‐rich area.

Participants

Cognitively intact survivors of the third wave (N = 1,740), who provided blood samples for standard laboratory work.

Measurements

Biomarkers (n = 28) were measured to develop a cumulative deficit laboratory test–based FI (Duke FI) derived from standard laboratory tests: SMAC‐24 chemistry panel, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol panel, and complete blood count. Information was gathered on scales assessing intrinsic characteristics (personal locus of control, life satisfaction, self‐esteem, depressive symptomatology) and extrinsic characteristics (support received from and provided to family and friends, stressful life events, neighborhood disadvantage).

Results

The newly developed Duke FI had content, construct, concurrent, and predictive validity. In addition to sex, race, and income, the Duke FI was associated at the intrinsic level with locus of control, self‐esteem, life satisfaction, and depressive symptomatology (each P < .01) and at the extrinsic level with provision (P < .01) and with receipt of instrumental help (P < .10), social stressors (P < .03), and neighborhood disadvantage (P < .01) in unadjusted analysis; race fully explained neighborhood disadvantage.

Conclusion

Intrinsic (personality) characteristics and personally close extrinsic characteristics (contacts with family and friends, personal stressors) are associated with laboratory test–based frailty, as is neighborhood disadvantage, although in this accessible, health service–rich environment, race fully explained association with neighborhood disadvantage, suggesting that interventions to reduce frailty in residents in such an environment should pay particular attention to characteristics that immediately affect the individual.
Influence of fungicides on gas exchange of pecan foliage
Authors: Wood B. W. , Bock C. H.
Published: June 2017

There are several fungicide chemistries used for disease control on pecan (Carya illinoinensis), but there is little or no knowledge of subtle short‐ or long‐term side effects of these chemistries on host physiological processes, including net photosynthesis (Pn). This study quantifies the impact of several fungicides used to control scab on Pn and other gas exchange characteristics of pecan foliage and provides much‐needed insight to ensure proper usage in commercial pecan operations. Multiple field experiments found that certain fungicide chemistries have the potential to reduce Pn, stomatal conductance (Cs), transpiration rate (Tr) and water use efficiency (Ew; Pn/Tr), whereas others are benign. For example, neither triphenyltin hydroxide nor the triazoles tested had a negative impact on gas exchange characteristics, regardless of when measurements were taken or the number of spray applications. However, dodine, phosphorous acid, ziram and certain strobilurins were capable of suppressing gas exchange, especially Pn, up to several weeks after a single treatment. Suppression of Pn by some fungicides was relatively short term, but was long term or permanent for other fungicides. In certain cases, leaf Pn was suppressed by as much as 50–80% for at least several weeks after a single exposure. These studies suggest that use of fungicides in commercial pecan orchards might result in negative side effects that need to be taken into consideration when determining how best to use these fungicides in pecan disease management.
Agricultural Productivity Growth and Household Food Security Improvement in Nepal
Authors: Morioka Masako , Kondo Takumi
Published: June 2017

Nepal is one of the poorest countries in the world. Using the panel data of the Nepal Living Standard Measurement Survey (NLSS), the poverty rate in 1995–96 was estimated to be about 40%, while in 2003–04 it was estimated at roughly 30%. Political instability has prevented the development of industry and threatened the food security of poor people, but scholarship on the factors contributing to food security is incomplete; while the determinants of food security have been mentioned in past research, prior studies have analyzed cross‐sectional data and thus could not have omitted heterogeneity bias. This paper analyzes the change in agricultural productivity in real terms and the impact on household food security by using the panel data of NLSS in 1995–96 and 2003–04. This analysis reveals that growth is observed in real agricultural productivity in spite of land segmentation; the growth in agricultural productivity in real terms has a positive impact on household food security; and the lower a farmer's income becomes, the more positive its impact on food security. Therefore, advancements in agricultural productivity play a critical role in promoting food security at the individual and household levels.
Effect of acid modification of biochar on nutrient availability and maize growth in a calcareous soil
Authors: Sahin O. , Taskin M. B. , Kaya E. C. , Atakol O. , Emir E. , Inal A. , Gunes A.
Published: June 2017

The nutritional quality of acid‐modified poultry manure biochar is unclear, so a better understanding of its properties and agronomic potential is needed. The biochar was modified with phosphoric acid (H3PO4) and nitric acid (HNO3) and a combination of the two, before and after pyrolysis. After characterization of biochar samples and determination of total and water‐soluble mineral element concentrations, biochars were applied to a calcareous soil at a rate of 0.5% (w/w) to find out their effects on the mineral nutrition and growth of maize. Treatment with H3PO4+HNO3enriches the biochar with phosphate, nitro groups and nitrate. The experimental results suggested that biochar modified withHNO3and/orHNO3+H3PO4after pyrolysis increased the water‐soluble phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu) and manganese (Mn) concentrations and increased plant‐available nutrients and plant growth by positively affecting the absorption of plant nutrients. The highest plant dry weight was obtained from biochar post‐treated withHNO3+H3PO4,and this was followed byHNO3‐ and H3PO4‐modified biochars. Premodification withHNO3+H3PO4 also significantly increased plant dry weights. The results of this study revealed that poultry manure biochar modified withHNO3and H3PO4can be used effectively in calcareous soil for the improvement of plant mineral nutrition.
Response to Hohenlohe
et al
.
Authors: vonHoldt Bridgett M. , Cahill James A. , Gronau Ilan , Shapiro Beth , Wall Jeff , Wayne Robert K.
Published: June 2017

Genome sequence and ancestry analysis confirm only two canid species in North America.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Serovar Enteritidis Strains Isolated from Egg Products in the United States
Authors: Hu Lijun , Zhang Guodong , Allard Marc W. , Yao Kuan , Stones Robert , Hoffmann Maria , Brown Eric W.
Published: June 2017

Egg-associated salmonellosis is an important public health problem in many countries. Here, we report the genome sequences, including plasmids, of two strains of
Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Enteritidis isolated from egg products in 2012 and 2013 in the United States. This will provide more information and insight into the research about egg-associated salmonellosis.
Are postnatal ampicillin levels actually related to the duration of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis prior to delivery? A pharmacokinetic study in 120 neonates
Authors: Berardi Alberto , Pietrangiolillo Zaira , Bacchi Reggiani Maria Letizia , Bianco Valentina , Gallesi Daniela , Rossi Katia , Facchinetti Fabio , Ferrari Fabrizio
Published: June 2017

Objective

To assess ampicillin levels according to the duration of intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP).

Design

Prospective cohort single-centre study.

Setting

Tertiary care centre (Modena, Italy).

Patients

120 neonates≥35 weeks’ gestation exposed to IAP.

Interventions

Neonates were divided into four groups, according to the duration of IAP prior to delivery: group 1 (n=30; <1 hour), group 2 (n=30; ≥1 and <2 hours), group 3 (n=30; ≥2 and <4 hours) and group 4 (n=30; ≥2 doses, ≥4 hours).

Main outcome measures

Blood samples were collected at delivery (from the umbilical cord) and at age 4 hours (from a peripheral vessel).

Results

Median duration of IAP was 121 min (range 7–2045 min). Median ampicillin levels in umbilical cord blood were 10.4 µg/mL (IQR 6.4–14.9) and in peripheral blood were 4.7 µg/mL (IQR 2.8–6.4µg/mL). Umbilical cord blood levels reached a peak approximately 30 min after IAP and then declined significantly (p<0.001). Peripheral blood levels did not differ among study groups. Neonates exposed to a full loading dose (n=115) had peripheral blood levels 2.5–70 times higher than the minimal inhibitory concentration for group B streptococcus. There was no relationship between neonatal ampicillin concentrations and the duration of IAP prior to delivery (β=−0.0003, 95% CI −0.02 to 0.001, p=0.680).

Conclusions

Ampicillin levels reach a peak in the umbilical cord blood within 30 min of intrapartum administration. After a full loading dose, bactericidal levels persist for at least 4 hours after birth and seem independent of the duration of IAP prior to delivery.
Fully automated joint space width measurement and digital X-ray radiogrammetry in early RA
Authors: Platten Michael , Kisten Yogan , Kälvesten Johan , Arnaud Laurent , Forslind Kristina , Vollenhoven Ronald van
Published: June 2017

Objectives

To study fully automated digital joint space width (JSW) and bone mineral density (BMD) in relation to a conventional radiographic scoring method in early rheumatoid arthritis (eRA).

Methods

Radiographs scored by the modified Sharp van der Heijde score (SHS) in patients with eRA were acquired from the SWEdish FarmacOTherapy study. Fully automated JSW measurements of bilateral metacarpals 2, 3 and 4 were compared with the joint space narrowing (JSN) score in SHS. Multilevel mixed model statistics were applied to calculate the significance of the association between ΔJSW and ΔBMD over 1 year, and the JSW differences between damaged and undamaged joints as evaluated by the JSN.

Results

Based on 576 joints of 96 patients with eRA, a significant reduction from baseline to 1 year was observed in the JSW from 1.69 (±0.19) mm to 1.66 (±0.19) mm (p<0.01), and BMD from 0.583 (±0.068) g/cm2to 0.566 (±0.074) g/cm2(p<0.01). A significant positive association was observed between ΔJSW and ΔBMD over 1 year (p<0.0001). On an individual joint level, JSWs of undamaged (JSN=0) joints were wider than damaged (JSN>0) joints: 1.68 mm (95% CI 1.70 to 1.67) vs 1.54 mm (95% CI 1.63 to 1.46). Similarly the unadjusted multilevel model showed significant differences in JSW between undamaged (1.68 mm (95% CI 1.72 to 1.64)) and damaged joints (1.63 mm (95% CI 1.68 to 1.58)) (p=0.0048). This difference remained significant in the adjusted model: 1.66 mm (95% CI 1.70 to 1.61) vs 1.62 mm (95% CI 1.68 to 1.56) (p=0.042).

Conclusions

To measure the JSW with this fully automated digital tool may be useful as a quick and observer-independent application for evaluating cartilage damage in eRA.

Trial registration number

NCT00764725.
No evidence for a direct role of HLA-B27 in pathological bone formation in axial SpA
Authors: Neerinckx Barbara , Kollnberger Simon , Shaw Jacqueline , Lories Rik
Published: June 2017

Objective

The strong genetic association between HLA-B27 and ankylosing spondylitis has been known for over 40 years. HLA-B27 positivity is possibly associated with severity of ankylosis. We studied the in vitro and in vivo impact of HLA-B27 in models of chondrogenesis and osteogenesis.

Methods

Different in vitro differentiation systems were used to mimic endochondral and direct bone formation. ATDC5 cells and primary human periosteum-derived cells (hPDCs) were transduced with lentiviral vectors expressing HLA-B27 or HLA-B7. These cells and limb bud cells (from HLA-B27 transgenic and wild-type (WT) mice) were cultured in micromasses. To study direct osteogenesis in hPDCs, cells were cultured as monolayers and stimulated with osteogenic media. Chondrogenesis (COL2,ACAN,COL10) and osteogenesis (OSC,ALP,RUNX2) marker expression was studied by quantitative RT-PCR. Colorimetric tests were performed to measure proteoglycans, mineralization and collagens. Collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) was induced in HLA-B27 transgenic and WT mice. Clinical scoring and µCTs were performed. Statistical analyses were performed by two-way ANOVA.

Results

There was no difference in chondrogenesis markers or in colorimetric tests between HLA-B27+and HLA-B7+micromasses. Expression of osteogenesis markers and Alizarin red staining was comparable in the HLA-B27+and the HLA-B7+hPDCs in monolayers. HLA-B27 transgenic mice showed more severe arthritis compared with WT mice in the CAIA model. µCT analysis showed no increased bone formation in HLA-B27 transgenic mice.

Conclusion

HLA-B27 seems to enhance joint inflammation in the CAIA model. We could not document a direct effect of HLA-B27 on chondrogenesis or osteogenesis.
The impact of moderate altitude on exercise metabolism in recreational sportsmen: a nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomic approach
Authors: Messier Florian M. , Le Moyec Laurence , Santi Carole , Gaston Anne-Fleur , Triba Mohamed N. , Roca Emma , Durand Fabienne
Published: June 2017

Although it is known that altitude impairs performance in endurance sports, there is no consensus on the involvement of energy substrates in this process. The objective of the present study was to determine whether the metabolomic pathways used during endurance exercise differ according to whether the effort is performed at sea level or at moderate altitude (at the same exercise intensity, using proton nuclear magnetic resonance, 1H NMR). Twenty subjects performed two 60-min endurance exercise tests at sea level and at 2150 m at identical relative intensity on a cycle ergometer. Blood plasma was obtained from venous blood samples drawn before and after exercise. 1H NMR spectral analysis was then performed on the plasma samples. A multivariate statistical technique was applied to the NMR data. The respective relative intensities of the sea level and altitude endurance tests were essentially the same when expressed as a percentage of the maximal oxygen uptake measured during the corresponding incremental maximal exercise test. Lipid use was similar at sea level and at altitude. In the plasma, levels of glucose, glutamine, alanine, and branched-chain amino acids had decreased after exercise at altitude but not after exercise at sea level. The decrease in plasma glucose and free amino acid levels observed after exercise at altitude indicated that increased involvement of the protein pathway was necessary but not sufficient for the maintenance of glycaemia. Metabolomics is a powerful means of gaining insight into the metabolic changes induced by exercise at altitude.
The volume of the black holes — The constant curvature slicing of the spherically symmetric spacetime
Authors: Gusin Pawel , Radosz Andrzej
Published: June 2017

We consider the problem of determination of a volume of some bounded space-like hypersurfaces in the case of spherically symmetric spacetimes. In the case when the hypersurface is cut or bounded by a light-like hypersurface, the problem may not be well-defined. In order to define the volume of a hypersurface properly, we introduce the volume forms related to the given foliation (observer) of the considered spacetime. In the case of the constant curvature slice, the volume of the hypersurface cut by the horizon (light-like surface) becomes composed of the two, outer- and inner-horizon parts, treated differently. We compute the corresponding volumes outside and inside of the horizon of the eternal Schwarzschild black hole.
Phenomenology of bulk scalar singlets in the Randall–Sundrum model
Authors: Abu-Ajamieh Fayez , Houtz Rachel , Zheng Rui
Published: June 2017

We present a Randall–Sundrum toy model with an added scalar singlet that couples only to KK fermions in the bulk. Such a scalar would nontrivially affect radion phenomenology. In addition, we examine the radion phenomenology in light of the new scalar and show how this scalar could present another probe to search for the radion.
Design and Analysis of High-Gain Switched-Capacitor-Inductor-Based Inverter for Step-Up DC-AC Conversion
Authors: Chang Yuen-Haw , Lin Yu-Kai
Published: June 2017

This paper presents the analysis, design and implementation of a closed-loop high-gain switched-capacitor-inductor-based inverter (SCII) by combining a sinusoidal pulse-width-modulation (SPWM) controller and phase generator for realizing the step-up inversion and regulation. The power part is composed of two cascaded sub-circuits from source [Formula: see text] to output voltage [Formula: see text]: (i) SCI booster (one resonant inductor, 4 pumping capacitors and 7 switches regulated by phase generator) and (ii) DC-link inverter (one filter capacitor and 4 switches controlled by SPWM), in order to provide a wide step-up output range of [Formula: see text] as: [Formula: see text] for DC-AC conversion, where [Formula: see text] ([Formula: see text]) is the ratio cycle of charging the inductor (e.g., the maximum of [Formula: see text] reaches 13.8 times voltage of [Formula: see text] while [Formula: see text]). Here, by using the phase generator, the maximum of step-up gain can be regulated for fitting the need of AC load. Further, the SPWM controller is employed to enhance regulation capability for the different amplitude and frequency of output, as well as robustness to loading variation. Some theoretical analysis and design are included: formulation, steady-state analysis, conversion ratio, power efficiency, inductance and capacitance selection, circuit stability and control design. Finally, the performance of SCII is simulated, and verified experimentally on the implemented prototype circuit, and the results are illustrated to show the efficacy of this scheme.
CFD Modeling and Simulation of Aeorodynamic Cooling of Automotive Brake Rotor
Authors: Belhocien Ali , Omar Wan Zaidi Wan
Published: June 2017

Braking system is one of the important control systems of an automotive. For many years, the disc brakes have been used in automobiles for the safe retarding of the vehicles. During the braking enormous amount of heat will be generated and for effective braking sufficient heat dissipation is essential. The thermal performance of disc brake depends upon the characteristics of the airflow around the brake rotor and hence the aerodynamics is an important in the region of brake components. A CFD analysis is carried out on the braking system as a case study to make out the behavior of airflow distribution around the disc brake components using ANSYS CFX software. We are interested in the determination of the heat transfer coefficient (HTC) on each surface of a ventilated disc rotor varying with time in a transient state using CFD analysis, and then imported the surface film condition data into a corresponding FEM model for disc temperature analysis.
China’s Joint Military and Civilian Development
Authors: CHEN Gang , YU Minghui
Published: June 2017

China’s ambitious military reform deepens with the establishment of a new commission on 22 January 2017 helmed by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The new commission will oversee the integration of military and civilian development. Xi aims to nurture Chinese defence manufacturers that are comparable to Lockheed Martin and Boeing in the United States and develop a military-industrial complex for the military modernisation commensurate with its rising international profile.
Centennial to decadal vegetation community changes linked to orbital and solar forcing during the Dan-C2 hyperthermal event
Authors: Jolley D. W. , Daly R. J. , Ebinghaus A. , Kemp D. B. , Gilmour I. , Mac Niocaill C. , Kelley S. P.
Published: June 2017

Formed close to the K–Pg boundary, the Boltysh meteorite crater, Ukraine, preserves >400 m of lacustrine sedimentary rocks that include a record of the early Danian Dan-C2 hyperthermal event. Abundant pollen, spores and algae recovered from these sediments have yielded a cyclic record of plant ecology change paced by
c
. 21 kyr orbital precession cycles. New, higher resolution sampling across the inception of the Dan-C2 hyperthermal event has identified oscillations in vegetation community ecology at sub-orbital periods of
c
. 2 kyr,
c
. 200 years and
c
. 11 years. These are consistent with possible Hallstatt, DeVreis–Suess and Schwabe solar cycles, respectively. Rapid regime shift from savanna to a mesic forest ecosystem was paced by
c
. 21 kyr precession, with the shift probably occurring in <200 years. Prior to regime shift,
c
. 2 kyr (i.e. possible Hallstatt) oscillations between mesic- and winterwet-dominated plant communities increased in intensity, suggestive of ecological flickering.

Supplementary material:
Detrended correspondence and changepoint analysis, palynological frequency data for DCA groups and core photographs are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.c.3803893
The role of geological structure and weathering in contaminant fate and transport in fractured bedrock at two sites in the UK
Authors: Leahy Kevin , Baldock James , Johnson Kathryn
Published: June 2017

Case studies are presented of two superficially similar fractured bedrock sites in the UK affected by chlorinated solvents. Site investigation used high-resolution site characterization techniques that have allowed a detailed understanding of the distribution of contaminant mass in the source areas, and the development of advanced conceptual site models at both sites. Differences in the amount of weathering, the geological structural style and the amount of organic carbon present meant that the contaminant fate and transport at each site is completely different. At one site deep, pervasive weathering had increased matrix porosity and permeability, whereas clay-infilled fractures in the underlying fresh shale prevented the contaminants from entering fractures at depth and produced a shallow and relatively short plume. At the second site there were very thin soils over a low-grade slate with almost no weathering, and solvent had penetrated to greater depths and diffused into the matrix. A lack of pore space, carbon and biodegradation has produced a deep, long, fast-moving and highly concentrated plume that is affecting a nearby surface water receptor. The decision to obtain high-resolution structural logging and chemical sampling data was the most important choice in the development of the conceptual site model.
RFID Light Bulb
Authors: Gummeson Jeremy , Mccann James , Yang Chouchang (JACK) , Ranasinghe Damith , Hudson Scott , Sample Alanson
Published: June 2017

Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has the potential to provide inexpensive, wireless, battery-free connectivity and interactivity for objects that are traditionally not instrumented. However, these systems have not seen widespread deployment outside warehouses and supply chains, owing to the complexity of installing bulky RFID readers, antennas, and their supporting power and network infrastructure.

In this work, we leverage advances in semiconductor optics, RF antenna design and system integration to create a hybrid RFID reader and smart LED lamp, in the form factor of a standard light bulb. This makes deploying RFID readers literally as easy as screwing in a light bulb. We explore the home-scale RFID interactions enabled by these smart bulbs, including infrastructure monitoring, localization and guided navigation, and standalone lighting effects.
Portable+
Authors: Jain Milan , Singh Amarjeet , Chandan Vikas
Published: June 2017

An air conditioner (AC) consumes a significant proportion of the total household power consumption. Primarily used in developing countries, decentralised AC has an inbuilt thermostat to cool the room to a temperature, manually set by the users. However, residents are incapable of specifying their goal through these thermostats - maximise their comfort or save AC energy. State-of-the-art portable thermostats emulate AC remotes and assist occupants in remotely changing the thermostat temperature, through their smartphones. We propose extending such thermostats to portable+ by adding a Comfort-Energy Trade-off (CET) knob, realised through an optimisation framework to allow users to balance their comfort and the savings without worrying about the right set temperature. Analysis based on real data, collected from a controlled experiment (across two rooms for two weeks) and an in-situ deployment (across five rooms for three months), indicates that portable+ thermostats can reduce residents’ discomfort by 23% (CET selection for maximal comfort) and save 26% energy when CET is set for maximising savings.
Towards Calm Displays
Authors: Kučera Jan , Scott James , Chen Nicholas , Olivier Patrick , Hodges Steve
Published: June 2017

We present a system for making emissive computer displays (LCDs) look like they are reflective, i.e. not emitting light but instead reflecting ambient light, an effect that we call a “calm display”. We achieve this effect by using a light sensor and a one-time calibration process to drive an algorithm which controls the display's backlight intensity and gamma correction functionality to continually match the brightness and chromaticity of the ambient light. We present an experimental evaluation of our system, showing quantitatively that the color and brightness output by our system is perceptually close to that of a piece of paper under similar lighting conditions. We argue that calm displays can more easily fade into the background, and further that they are more suitable for environments such as bedrooms where glowing displays are often out-of-place. We validate these claims and more generally explore users’ perception of calm displays, through a field study of an LCD display deployed in participants’ bedrooms.
SoundTrak
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Xue Qiuyue , Waghmare Anandghan , Jain Sumeet , Pu Yiming , Hersek Sinan , Lyons Kent , Cunefare Kenneth A. , Inan Omer T. , Abowd Gregory D.
Published: June 2017

The small size of wearable devices limits the efficiency and scope of possible user interactions, as inputs are typically constrained to two dimensions: the touchscreen surface. We present SoundTrak, an active acoustic sensing technique that enables a user to interact with wearable devices in the surrounding 3D space by continuously tracking the finger position with high resolution. The user wears a ring with an embedded miniature speaker sending an acoustic signal at a specific frequency (e.g., 11 kHz), which is captured by an array of miniature, inexpensive microphones on the target wearable device. A novel algorithm is designed to localize the finger’s position in 3D space by extracting phase information from the received acoustic signals. We evaluated SoundTrak in a volume of space (20cm × 16cm × 11cm) around a smartwatch, and show an average accuracy of 1.3 cm. We report on results from a Fitts’ Law experiment with 10 participants as the evaluation of the real-time prototype. We also present a set of applications which are supported by this 3D input technique, and show the practical challenges that need to be addressed before widespread use.
Experience
Authors: Al-Hussaini Leena
Published: June 2017

Hunspell is a morphological spell checker and automatic corrector for Macintosh 10.6 and later versions. Aspell is a general spell checker and automatic corrector for the GNU operating system. In this experience article, we present a benchmarking study of the performance of Hunspell and Aspell. Ginger is a general grammatical spell checker that is used as a baseline to compare the performance of Hunspell and Aspell. A benchmark dataset was carefully selected to be a mixture of different error types at different word length levels. Further, the benchmarking data are from very bad spellers and will challenge any spell checker. The extensive study described in this work will characterize the respective softwares and benchmarking data from multiple perspectives and will consider many error statistics. Overall, Hunspell can correct 415/469 words and Aspell can correct 414/469 words. The baseline Ginger can correct 279/469 words. We recommend this dataset as the preferred benchmark dataset for evaluating newly developed “isolated word” spell checkers.
Increased activity of the orexin system in the paraventricular nucleus contributes to salt-sensitive hypertension
Authors: Huber Michael J. , Fan Yuanyuan , Jiang Enshe , Zhu Fengli , Larson Robert A. , Yan Jianqun , Li Ningjun , Chen Qing-Hui , Shan Zhiying
Published: June 2017

The orexin system is involved in arginine vasopressin (AVP) regulation, and its overactivation has been implicated in hypertension. However, its role in salt-sensitive hypertension (SSHTN) is unknown. Here, we tested the hypothesis that hyperactivity of the orexin system in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) contributes to SSHTN via enhancing AVP signaling. Eight-week-old male Dahl salt-sensitive (Dahl S) and age- and sex-matched Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were placed on a high-salt (HS; 8% NaCl) or normal-salt (NS; 0.4% NaCl) diet for 4 wk. HS intake did not alter mean arterial pressure (MAP), PVN mRNA levels of orexin receptor 1 (OX1R), or OX2R but slightly increased PVN AVP mRNA expression in SD rats. HS diet induced significant increases in MAP and PVN mRNA levels of OX1R, OX2R, and AVP in Dahl S rats. Intracerebroventricular infusion of orexin A (0.2 nmol) dramatically increased AVP mRNA levels and immunoreactivity in the PVN of SD rats. Incubation of cultured hypothalamus neurons from newborn SD rats with orexin A increased AVP mRNA expression, which was attenuated by OX1R blockade. In addition, increased cerebrospinal fluid Na+ concentration through intracerebroventricular infusion of NaCl solution (4 µmol) increased PVN OX1R and AVP mRNA levels and immunoreactivity in SD rats. Furthermore, bilateral PVN microinjection of the OX1R antagonist SB-408124 resulted in a greater reduction in MAP in HS intake (−16 ± 5 mmHg) compared with NS-fed (−4 ± 4 mmHg) anesthetized Dahl S rats. These results suggest that elevated PVN OX1R activation may contribute to SSHTN by enhancing AVP signaling.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY To our best knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the involvement of the orexin system in salt-sensitive hypertension. Our results suggest that the orexin system may contribute to the Dahl model of salt-sensitive hypertension by enhancing vasopressin signaling in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus.
Immunotherapy of Prostate Cancer: Facts and Hopes
Authors: Bilusic Marijo , Madan Ravi A. , Gulley James L.
Published: June 2017

In the last few years, immunotherapy has become an important cancer treatment modality, and although the principles of immunotherapy have evolved over many decades, the FDA approvals of sipuleucel-T and ipilimumab began a new wave in immuno-oncology. Despite the current enthusiasm, it is unlikely that any of the immunotherapeutics alone can dramatically change prostate cancer outcomes, but combination strategies are more promising and provide a reason for optimism. Several completed and ongoing studies have shown that the combination of cancer vaccines or checkpoint inhibitors with different immunotherapeutic agents, hormonal therapy (enzalutamide), radiotherapy (radium 223), DNA-damaging agents (olaparib), or chemotherapy (docetaxel) can enhance immune responses and induce more dramatic, long-lasting clinical responses without significant toxicity. The goal of prostate cancer immunotherapy does not have to be complete eradication of advanced disease but rather the return to an immunologic equilibrium with an indolent disease state. In addition to determining the optimal combination of treatment regimens, efforts are also ongoing to discover biomarkers of immune response. With such concerted efforts, the future of immunotherapy in prostate cancer looks brighter than ever. Clin Cancer Res; 23(22); 6764–70. ©2017 AACR.
Contribution of Next-Generation Sequencing to Aquatic and Fish Virology
Authors: Nkili-Meyong Andriniaina Andy , Bigarré Laurent , Labouba Ingrid , Vallaeys Tatiana , Avarre Jean-Christophe , Berthet Nicolas
Published: June 2017

The recent technological advances in nucleic acid sequencing, called next-generation sequencing (NGS), have revolutionized the field of genomics and have also influenced viral research. Aquatic viruses, and especially those infecting fish, have also greatly benefited from NGS technologies, which provide a huge amount of molecular information at a low cost in a relatively short period of time. Here, we review the use of the current high-throughput sequencing platforms with a special focus on the associated challenges (regarding sample preparation and bioinformatics) in their applications to the field of aquatic virology, especially for: (i) discovering novel viruses that may be associated with fish mortalities, (ii) elucidating the mechanisms of pathogenesis, and finally (iii) studying the molecular epidemiology of these pathogens.
Histamine Induces Bovine Rumen Epithelial Cell Inflammatory Response via NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Sun Xudong , Yuan Xue , Chen Liang , Wang Tingting , Wang Zhe , Sun Guoquan , Li Xiaobing , Li Xinwei , Liu Guowen
Published: June 2017

Background/Aims: Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is a common disease in high-producing lactating cows. Rumenitis is the initial insult of SARA and is associated with the high concentrations of histamine produced in the rumen of dairy cows during SARA. However, the exact mechanism remains unclear. The objective of the current study is to investigate whether histamine induces inflammation of rumen epithelial cells and the underlying mechanism of this process. Methods: Bovine rumen epithelial cells were cultured and treated with different concentrations of histamine and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC, an NF-κB inhibitor) cultured in different pH medium (pH 7.2 or 5.5). qRT-PCR, Western-blotting, ELISA and immunocytofluorescence were used to evaluate whether histamine activated the NF-κB pathway and inflammatory cytokines. Results: The results showed that histamine significantly increased the activity of IKK β and the phosphorylation levels of IκB α, as well as upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of NF-κB p65 in the rumen epithelial cells cultured in neutral (pH=7.2) and acidic (pH=5.5) medium. Furthermore, histamine treatment also significantly increased the transcriptional activity of NF-κB p65. High expression and transcriptional activity of NF-κB p65 significantly increased the mRNA expressions and concentrations of inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), thereby inducing the inflammatory response in bovine rumen epithelial cells. However, inhibition of NF-κB p65 by PDTC significantly decreased the expressions and concentrations of the inflammatory cytokines induced by histamine in the rumen epithelial cells cultured in the neutral and acidic medium. Conclusion: The present data indicate that histamine induces the inflammatory response of bovine rumen epithelial cells through the NF-κB pathway.
Leitura: inferências na obra de Fernando Sabino
Authors: David Ricardo Santos
Published: June 2017

Análise de inferências em textos com o objetivo de demonstrar que todo sentido, mesmo o literal, inclui informações implícitas em diferentes graus de explicitude. O ato de compreensão desses enunciados envolve vários processos inferenciais, o que significa dizer que o leitor crítico deve estar atento não só às questões de ordem lógica como também às questões discursivas e ou retórico-argumentativas que ocorrem nos diversos gêneros de textos e que são fundamentais para a construção do sentido de um texto.
La Malinche em Xicoténcatl (1826) e na história: o imaginário coletivo mexicano em configurações confrontadas
Authors: González Leila Shaí Del Pozo , Fleck Gilmei Francisco
Published: June 2017

The article discusses the first literary configuration of Malinche in the first Latin American Historical Novel, Xicoténcatl (1826). This fictionalization served as a basis for the negative creation of the myth of La Malinche in the Mexican Collective Imaginary (HERREN, 1993). We aim to compare those images in the novel with the historical studies about the character and to point out approaches and gaps between what is exposed in Xicoténcatl and what is registered in History about Malinche.
Deus, Pátria e Família em Rui Simões e valter hugo mãe
Authors: Salles Penélope Eiko Aragaki
Published: June 2017

O presente artigo pretende analisar como alguns valores da ideologia salazarista (“Deus, Pátria e Família”) foram tratados em uma produção cinematográfica logo após o fim da ditadura e em uma produção literária portuguesa contemporânea e observar como se deu a ressignificação do passado.
Entrevista com o grupo angolano de hip hop "Filhos da ala este"
Authors: Souza Luana Soares de , Martinho Joaquim João
Published: June 2017

O grupo “Filhos da ala este”, nascido em Angola, surgiu na década de 90. As letras do grupo fazem referência direta a acontecimentos históricos do país, propondo uma nova leitura sobre a história de Angola. Partindo de uma crítica cortante às desigualdades, o grupo evidencia a dinâmica social dos pobres, trabalhadores e crianças. Os ecos da independência, seguida da guerra civil, também permeiam as letras do grupo. Nesta entrevista, “Filhos da ala este” falam sobre o início da cena de hip hop em Angola, projeto estético e o passado-presente da nação.
Os Andrades e seus contextos de produção: análise intersemiótica de Macunaíma
Authors: Carvalho Jéssica Catharine Barbosa de , Neta Laura Torres de Alencar
Published: June 2017

The present study proposes the analysis of Macunaíma in its literary and cinematographic versions. The focus are excerpts from the two works that demonstrate his contexts of production, Literary Modernism for Mário de Andrade and Cinema Novo for Joaquim Pedro de Andrade. The analysis was carried out from the point of view of the carnivalization proposed by Bakhtin, so that the purpose of the authors is, among others, to promote the criticism to the brazilian society, that lived submissive to european standards.
No traçar da memória: urbe e ditadura em O Irmão Alemão, de Chico Buarque
Authors: Lopes Giovana dos Santos
Published: June 2017

The memory is one of the resources of fictionality used by Chico Buarque to compose O Irmão Alemão (2014), work of autofiction segment. The character Ciccio is involved in the recollection, since his childhood in the 1940's until the year of 2013, when the period of youth, almost all shrouded in the shadows of the military dictatorship, is constructed in a way that expresses the relation of the fragmented subject with the urban.
Resenha Geografias da Memória
Authors: Vilar Fernanda Salomão
Published: June 2017

O livro Geometrias da Memória: configurações pós-coloniais é o primeiro volume da série “Memoirs – Filhos de Império”, do grupo de pesquisa de mesmo nome MEMOIRS – Filhos de Império e Pós-memórias Europeias (http://memoirs.ces.uc.pt) financiado pelo Conselho Europeu de Pesquisa (ERC).  Organizado por António Sousa Ribeiro e Margarida Calafate Ribeiro, o livro interroga o lugar da memória e da pós-memória colonial na narrativa da história europeia.
Entrevista com o grupo teatral Alcolu é aqui
Authors: Rabello Rosana Baú , Silva Cláudia Rocha da
Published: June 2017

O grupo teatral Alcolu é aqui foi constituído no início de 2016, na Vila Formosa, zona leste da capital de São Paulo, tendo como proposta a criação de um projeto que abordasse o racismo, com foco no genocídio da população negra. Utilizaram o teatro, a performance e a internet como potencializadores dessa discussão. Sensíveis à problemática da violência racial que atinge, especialmente, os jovens, e pensando em como contribuir para reverter esse quadro, o grupo fez a opção política de se aproximar da população, no intuito de discutir o racismo, téte a téte. Essa aproximação é realizada através de oficinas teatrais gratuitas, performances urbanas, leituras dramáticas e de uma plataforma online onde é possível registrar a ocorrência de situações de racismo, vivenciadas pelas próprias vítimas, em São Paulo.