bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of Intrinsic Defects in Lithium Niobate Single Crystal for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Bhatt Rajeev , Bhaumik Indranil , Ganesamoorthy Sarveswaran , Bright Riscob , Soharab Mohammad , Karnal Ashwani , Gupta Pradeep
Published: January 2017

A single crystal of lithium niobate is an important optoelectronic material. It can be grown from direct melt only in a lithium deficient non-stoichiometric form as its stoichiometric composition exhibits incongruent melting. As a result it contains a number of intrinsic point defects such as Li-vacancies, Nb antisites, oxygen vacancies, as well as different types of polarons and bipolarons. All these defects adversely influence its optical and ferroelectric properties and pose a deterrent to the effective use of this material. Hence, controlling the defects in lithium niobate has been an exciting topic of research and development over the years. In this article we discuss the different methods of controlling the intrinsic defects in lithium niobate and a comparison of the effect of these methods on the crystalline quality, stoichiometry, optical absorption in the UV-vis region, electronic band-gap, and refractive index.
Topological Entropy Dimension and Directional Entropy Dimension for ℤ2-Subshifts
Authors: Jung Uijin , Lee Jungseob , Koh Park Kyewon
Published: January 2017

The notion of topological entropy dimension for a Z -action has been introduced to measure the subexponential complexity of zero entropy systems. Given a Z 2 -action, along with a Z 2 -entropy dimension, we also consider a finer notion of directional entropy dimension arising from its subactions. The entropy dimension of a Z 2 -action and the directional entropy dimensions of its subactions satisfy certain inequalities. We present several constructions of strictly ergodic Z 2 -subshifts of positive entropy dimension with diverse properties of their subgroup actions. In particular, we show that there is a Z 2 -subshift of full dimension in which every direction has entropy 0.
Entropy, Shannon’s Measure of Information and Boltzmann’s H-Theorem
Authors: Ben-Naim Arieh
Published: January 2017

We start with a clear distinction between Shannon’s Measure of Information (SMI) and the Thermodynamic Entropy. The first is defined on any probability distribution; and therefore it is a very general concept. On the other hand Entropy is defined on a very special set of distributions. Next we show that the Shannon Measure of Information (SMI) provides a solid and quantitative basis for the interpretation of the thermodynamic entropy. The entropy measures the uncertainty in the distribution of the locations and momenta of all the particles; as well as two corrections due to the uncertainty principle and the indistinguishability of the particles. Finally we show that the H-function as defined by Boltzmann is an SMI but not entropy. Therefore; much of what has been written on the H-theorem is irrelevant to entropy and the Second Law of Thermodynamics.
Entropy-Based Method for Evaluating Contact Strain-Energy Distribution for Assembly Accuracy Prediction
Authors: Fang Yan , Jin Xin , Huang Chencan , Zhang Zhijing
Published: January 2017

Assembly accuracy significantly affects the performance of precision mechanical systems. In this study, an entropy-based evaluation method for contact strain-energy distribution is proposed to predict the assembly accuracy. Strain energy is utilized to characterize the effects of the combination of form errors and contact deformations on the formation of assembly errors. To obtain the strain energy, the contact state is analyzed by applying the finite element method (FEM) on 3D, solid models of real parts containing form errors. Entropy is employed for evaluating the uniformity of the contact strain-energy distribution. An evaluation model, in which the uniformity of the contact strain-energy distribution is evaluated in three levels based on entropy, is developed to predict the assembly accuracy, and a comprehensive index is proposed. The assembly experiments for five sets of two rotating parts are conducted. Moreover, the coaxiality between the surfaces of two parts with assembly accuracy requirements is selected as the verification index to verify the effectiveness of the evaluation method. The results are in good agreement with the verification index, indicating that the method presented in this study is reliable and effective in predicting the assembly accuracy.
Educational Justice Due to More Education? Requests for a Solution Strategy
Authors: Grümme Bernhard
Published: January 2017

Why does education fail to realize educational justice? Why does religious education not play a part in contributing to educational justice to some degree, as it is technically located in the logic of its handed down biblical message? On the one hand, education is socially testified as being at a crucial moment of educational justice, on the other hand, it is not only political and institutional determinants that seem to be opposed to that. In class, there are moments that counteract the abolition of educational injustice. Because of its complexity, confinement of interest and inner differentiation, the pressing problem of injustice in educational processes can only be processed in the complex access at the macro-, meso- and micro-level. The concern of the thoughts at hand is on their interpenetration of analytical, hermeneutical and pragmatical factors and, in that respect, we look to outline the demands on religious educational processes in religious education in schools.
Fault Tolerant and Optimal Control of Wind Turbines with Distributed High-Speed Generators
Authors: Giger Urs , Kühne Patrick , Schulte Horst
Published: January 2017

In this paper, the control scheme of a distributed high-speed generator system with a total amount of 12 generators and nominal generator speed of 7000 min − 1 is studied. Specifically, a fault tolerant control (FTC) scheme is proposed to keep the turbine in operation in the presence of up to four simultaneous generator faults. The proposed controller structure consists of two layers: The upper layer is the baseline controller, which is separated into a partial load region with the generator torque as an actuating signal and the full-load operation region with the collective pitch angle as the other actuating signal. In addition, the lower layer is responsible for the fault diagnosis and FTC characteristics of the distributed generator drive train. The fault reconstruction and fault tolerant control strategy are tested in simulations with several actuator faults of different types.
Application of Meta-Heuristic Techniques for Optimal Load Shedding in Islanded Distribution Network with High Penetration of Solar PV Generation
Authors: Dreidy Mohammad , Mokhlis Hazlie , Mekhilef Saad
Published: January 2017

Recently, several environmental problems are beginning to affect all aspects of life. For this reason, many governments and international agencies have expressed great interest in using more renewable energy sources (RESs). However, integrating more RESs with distribution networks resulted in several critical problems vis-à-vis the frequency stability, which might lead to a complete blackout if not properly treated. Therefore, this paper proposed a new Under Frequency Load Shedding (UFLS) scheme for islanding distribution network. This scheme uses three meta-heuristics techniques, binary evolutionary programming (BEP), Binary genetic algorithm (BGA), and Binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO), to determine the optimal combination of loads that needs to be shed from the islanded distribution network. Compared with existing UFLS schemes using fixed priority loads, the proposed scheme has the ability to restore the network frequency without any overshooting. Furthermore, in terms of execution time, the simulation results show that the BEP technique is fast enough to shed the optimal combination of loads compared with BGA and BPSO techniques.
Assessing Wildland Fire Risk Transmission to Communities in Northern Spain
Authors: Alcasena Fermín , Salis Michele , Ager Alan , Castell Rafael , Vega-García Cristina
Published: January 2017

We assessed potential economic losses and transmission to residential houses from wildland fires in a rural area of central Navarra (Spain). Expected losses were quantified at the individual structure level (n = 306) in 14 rural communities by combining fire model predictions of burn probability and fire intensity with susceptibility functions derived from expert judgement. Fire exposure was estimated by simulating 50,000 fire events that replicated extreme (97th percentile) historical fire weather conditions. Spatial ignition probabilities were used in the simulations to account for non-random ignitions, and were estimated from a fire occurrence model generated with an artificial neural network. The results showed that ignition probability explained most of spatial variation in risk, with economic value of structures having only a minor effect. Average expected loss to residential houses from a single wildfire event in the study area was 7955€, and ranged from a low of 740 to the high of 28,725€. Major fire flow-paths were analyzed to understand fire transmission from surrounding municipalities and showed that incoming fires from the north exhibited strong pathways into the core of the study area, and fires spreading from the south had the highest likelihood of reaching target residential structures from the longest distances (>5 km). Community firesheds revealed the scale of risk to communities and extended well beyond administrative boundaries. The results provided a quantitative risk assessment that can be used by insurance companies and local landscape managers to prioritize and allocate investments to treat wildland fuels and identify clusters of high expected loss within communities. The methodological framework can be extended to other fire-prone southern European Union countries where communities are threatened by large wildland fires.
The Power of (Near) Simultaneous Multi-Frequency Observations for mm-VLBI and Astrometry
Authors: Rioja María , Dodson Richard , Gómez José , Molina Sol , Jung Taehyun , Sohn Bong
Published: January 2017

Simultaneous or near-simultaneous observations at multiple frequency bands have the potential to overcome the fundamental limitation imposed by the atmospheric propagation in mm-VLBI observations. The propagation effects place a severe limit in the sensitivity achievable in mm-VLBI, reducing the time over which the signals can be coherently combined, and preventing the use of phase referencing and astrometric measurements. We present two demonstrations of the power of (near) simultaneous multi-frequency observations with the KVN and VLBA, and our recently developed analysis strategies to enable new measurements at mm-VLBI. The first case comprises simultaneous observations at 22, 43, 87 and 130 GHz of a group of five AGNs, the weakest of which is ∼200 mJy at 130 GHz, with angular separations ranging from 3.6 to 11 degrees, using the KVN. We analysed this data using the Frequency Phase Transfer (FPT) and the Source Frequency Phase Referencing (SFPR) techniques, which use the observations at a lower frequency to correct those at a higher frequency. The results of the analysis provide an empirical demonstration of the increase in the coherence times at 130 GHz from a few tens of seconds to about twenty minutes, with FPT, and up to many hours with SFPR. Moreover the astrometric analysis provides high precision relative position measurements between two frequencies, including, for the first time, astrometry at 130 GHz. The second case is a variation of the above, whereby adding dedicated wide-band cm-wavelength observations to measure the ionosphere eliminates the need for a second, calibrator, source. This addresses the scarcity of calibrators at mm-VLBI. We dubbed this technique Multi Frequency Phase Referencing (MFPR). We present bona fide astrometrically aligned VLBA images of BL Lacertae at 22 and 43 GHz using MFPR, which, combined with results from conventional phase referencing at cm-wavelengths, suggests the VLBI core has a recollimation shock that is revealed at mm-wavelengths. These shocks could be responsible for the γ-ray emission in blazar jets.
Erratum: Hwang Y.T. et al. Molecular Inconsistencies in a Fragile X Male with Early Onset Ataxia. Genes 2016, 7, 68
Authors: Hwang Yun , Dudding Tracy , Aliaga Solange , Arpone Marta , Francis David , Li Xin , Slater Howard , Rogers Carolyn , Bretherton Lesley , Du Sart Desirée , Heard Robert , Godler David
Published: January 2017

n/a
Revisiting Cent-Fonts Fluviokarst Hydrological Properties with Conservative Temperature Approximation
Authors: Machetel Philippe , Yuen David
Published: January 2017

We assess the errors produced by considering temperature as a conservative tracer in fluviokarst studies. Heat transfer that occurs between karstic Conduit System (CS) and Porous Fractured Matrix (PFM) is the reason why one should be careful in making this assumption without caution. We consider the karstic aquifer as an Open Thermodynamic System (OTS), which boundaries are permeable to thermal energy and water. The first principle of thermodynamics allows considering the enthalpy balance between the input and output flows. Combined with a continuity equation this leads to a two-equation system involving flows and temperatures. Steady conditions are approached during the recession period or during particular phases of pumping test experiments. After a theoretical study of the error induced by the conservative assumption in karst, we have applied the method to revisit the data collected during a complete campaign of pumping test. The method, restricted to selected data allowed retrieving values of base flow, mixing of flow, intrusions of streams, and aquifer answer to drawdown. The applicability of the method has been assessed in terms of propagation of the temporal fluctuations trough the solving but also in terms of conservative assumption itself. Our results allow retrieving the main hydrological properties of the karst as observed on field (timed volumetric samplings, geochemical analyses, step pumping test and allogenic intrusion of streams). This consistency argues in favor of the applicability of the conservative temperature method to investigating fluviokarst systems under controlled conditions.
Particulate Matter and Respiratory Symptoms among Adults Living in Windhoek, Namibia: A Cross Sectional Descriptive Study
Authors: Hamatui Ndinomholo , Beynon Caryl
Published: January 2017

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of respiratory symptoms and to assess respiratory health risks associated with Particulate Matter (PM) exposure among the residents of Windhoek, Namibia. Objectives: To measure particulate pollution concentration in Windhoek through monitoring of particulate matter concentration and to identify any associations between particulate pollution, individual location, and respiratory health among the Windhoek resident’s. Methods: an adapted standardized self-administered questionnaire was used to collect respiratory health related data as well as previous exposure, while PM monitoring was done using the ASTM (American Standard Test Method) D1739 reference method. Results: A high prevalence was observed for cough (43%), breathlessness (25%), and asthma (11.2%). PM was found to be a significant risk factor for episodes of coughing and phlegm, while high PM exposure category had an increased odds ratio (OR) for episodes of phlegm and cough (OR: 2.5, 95% CI (95% confidence intervals): 0.8–8.0). No association was observed between location and respiratory health outcomes. Conclusions: The study found high levels of PM concentration across all Windhoek suburbs which were above the German, American, and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Enactment of legislation relating to the control and monitoring of PM related emissions at the point of generation is required at both a country and city level.
Polypyrrole-Grafted Coconut Shell Biological Carbon as a Potential Adsorbent for Methyl Tert-Butyl Ether Removal: Characterization and Adsorption Capability
Authors: Li Shanshan , Qian Keke , Wang Shan , Liang Kaiqiang , Yan Wei
Published: January 2017

Methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) has been used as a common gasoline additive worldwide since the late twentieth century, and it has become the most frequently detected groundwater pollutant in many countries. This study aimed to synthesize a novel microbial carrier to improve its adsorptive capacity for MTBE and biofilm formation, compared to the traditional granular activated carbon (GAC). A polypyrrole (PPy)-modified GAC composite (PPy/GAC) was synthesized, and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area analysis. The adsorption behaviors of MTBE were well described by the pseudo-second-order and Langmuir isotherm models. Furthermore, three biofilm reactors were established with PPy/GAC, PPy, and GAC as the carriers, respectively, and the degradation of MTBE under continuous flow was investigated. Compared to the biofilm reactors with PPy or GAC (which both broke after a period of operation), the PPy/GAC biofilm column produced stable effluents under variable treatment conditions with a long-term effluent MTBE concentration <20 μg/L. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter pittii may be the predominant bacteria responsible for MTBE degradation in these biofilm reactors.
Cross-Talk between Cancer Cells and the Tumour Microenvironment: The Role of the 5-Lipoxygenase Pathway
Authors: Moore Gillian , Pidgeon Graham
Published: January 2017

5-lipoxygenase is an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of a range of bioactive lipids signalling molecules known collectively as eicosanoids. 5-lipoxygenase metabolites such as 5-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) and a number of leukotrienes are mostly derived from arachidonic acid and have been shown to be lipid mediators of inflammation in different pathological states including cancer. Upregulated 5-lipoxygenase expression and metabolite production is found in a number of cancer types and has been shown to be associated with increased tumorigenesis. 5-lipoxygenase activity is present in a number of diverse cell types of the immune system and connective tissue. In this review, we discuss potential routes through which cancer cells may utilise the 5-lipoxygenase pathway to interact with the tumour microenvironment during the development and progression of a tumour. Furthermore, immune-derived 5-lipoxygenase signalling can drive both pro- and anti-tumour effects depending on the immune cell subtype and an overview of evidence for these opposing effects is presented.
Polymorphisms of Dopamine Receptor Genes and Risk of L-Dopa–Induced Dyskinesia in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Comi Cristoforo , Ferrari Marco , Marino Franca , Magistrelli Luca , Cantello Roberto , Riboldazzi Giulio , Bianchi Maria , Bono Giorgio , Cosentino Marco
Published: January 2017

L-dopa–induced dyskinesia (LID) is a frequent motor complication of Parkinson’s disease (PD), associated with a negative prognosis. Previous studies showed an association between dopamine receptor (DR) gene (DR) variants and LID, the results of which have not been confirmed. The present study is aimed to determine whether genetic differences of DR are associated with LID in a small but well-characterized cohort of PD patients. To this end we enrolled 100 PD subjects, 50 with and 50 without LID, matched for age, gender, disease duration and dopaminergic medication in a case-control study. We conducted polymerase chain reaction for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in both D1-like (DRD1A48G; DRD1C62T and DRD5T798C) and D2-like DR (DRD2G2137A, DRD2C957T, DRD3G25A, DRD3G712C, DRD4C616G and DRD4nR VNTR 48bp) analyzed genomic DNA. Our results showed that PD patients carrying allele A at DRD3G3127A had an increased risk of LID (OR 4.9; 95% CI 1.7–13.9; p = 0.004). The present findings may provide valuable information for personalizing pharmacological therapy in PD patients.
Biocompatibility and Corrosion Protection Behaviour of Hydroxyapatite Sol-Gel-Derived Coatings on Ti6Al4V Alloy
Authors: El Hadad Amir , Peón Eduardo , García-Galván Federico , Barranco Violeta , Parra Juan , Jiménez-Morales Antonia , Galván Juan
Published: January 2017

The aim of this work was to prepare hydroxyapatite coatings (HAp) by a sol-gel method on Ti6Al4V alloy and to study the bioactivity, biocompatibility and corrosion protection behaviour of these coatings in presence of simulated body fluids (SBFs). Thermogravimetric/Differential Thermal Analyses (TG/DTA) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) have been applied to obtain information about the phase transformations, mass loss, identification of the phases developed, crystallite size and degree of crystallinity of the obtained HAp powders. Fourier Transformer Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) has been utilized for studying the functional groups of the prepared structures. The surface morphology of the resulting HAp coatings was studied by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The bioactivity was evaluated by soaking the HAp-coatings/Ti6Al4V system in Kokubo’s Simulated Body Fluid (SBF) applying Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) spectrometry. 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and Alamar blue cell viability assays were used to study the biocompatibility. Finally, the corrosion behaviour of HAp-coatings/Ti6Al4V system was researched by means of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The obtained results showed that the prepared powders were nanocrystalline HAp with little deviations from that present in the human bone. All the prepared HAp coatings deposited on Ti6Al4V showed well-behaved biocompatibility, good bioactivity and corrosion protection properties.
Model Stirrer Based on a Multi-Material Turntable for Microwave Processing Materials
Authors: Ye Jinghua , Hong Tao , Wu Yuanyuan , Wu Li , Liao Yinhong , Zhu Huacheng , Yang Yang , Huang Kama
Published: January 2017

Microwaves have been widely used in the treatment of materials, such as heating, drying, and sterilization. However, the heating in the commonly used microwave applicators is usually uneven. In this paper, a novel multi-material turntable structure is creatively proposed to improve the temperature uniformity in microwave ovens. Three customized turntables consisting of polyethylene (PE) and alumina, PE and aluminum, and alumina and aluminum are, respectively, utilized in a domestic microwave oven in simulation. During the heating process, the processed material is placed on a fixed Teflon bracket which covers the constantly rotating turntable. Experiments are conducted to measure the surface and point temperatures using an infrared thermal imaging camera and optical fibers. Simulated results are compared qualitatively with the measured ones, which verifies the simulated models. Compared with the turntables consisting of a single material, a 26%–47% increase in temperature uniformity from adapting the multi-material turntable can be observed for the microwave-processed materials.
Development of Vegetation-Pervious Concrete in Grid Beam System for Soil Slope Protection
Authors: Bao Xiaohua , Liao Wenyu , Dong Zhijun , Wang Shanyong , Tang Waiching
Published: January 2017

One of the most efficient and environmentally friendly methods for preventing a landslide on a slope is to vegetate it. Vegetation-pervious concretes have a promising potential for soil protection. In this study, the vegetation-pervious concrete with low alkalinity was developed and studied. Combined with a grid beam structure system, the stability and strength between the vegetation-pervious concrete and base soil are believed to be enhanced effectively. For improving plant adaptability, the alkalinity of concrete can be decreased innovatively by adding a self-designed admixture into the cement paste. The effects of the admixture content on alkalinity and compressive strength of the hardened pervious concrete were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and compression test, respectively. Meanwhile, the permeability of the vegetation-pervious concrete was studied as well. Through comparing with ordinary pervious concrete, the effect of low alkaline pervious concrete on vegetation growth was investigated in a small-scale field for ten weeks. The test results indicated that the alkalinity of the cement samples decreased with the increase of admixture content, and the vegetation grew successfully on previous concrete. By increasing the admixture content to approximately 3.6%, the compressive strength of pervious concrete was more than 25 MPa.
Investigations on the Role of N2:(N2 + CH4) Ratio on the Growth of Hydrophobic Nanostructured Hydrogenated Carbon Nitride Thin Films by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition at Low Temperature
Authors: Khanis Noor , Ritikos Richard , Ahmad Kamal Shafarina , Abdul Rahman Saadah
Published: January 2017

Nanostructured hydrogenated carbon nitride (CNx:H) thin films were synthesized on a crystal silicon substrate at low deposition temperature by radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). Methane and nitrogen were the precursor gases used in this deposition process. The effects of N2 to the total gas flow rate ratio on the formation of CNx:H nanostructures were investigated. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), Raman scattering, and Fourier transform of infrared spectroscopies (FTIR) were used to characterize the films. The atomic nitrogen to carbon ratio and sp2 bonds in the film structure showed a strong influence on its growth rate, and its overall structure is strongly influenced by even small changes in the N2:(N2 + CH4) ratio. The formation of fibrous CNx:H nanorod structures occurs at ratios of 0.7 and 0.75, which also shows improved surface hydrophobic characteristic. Analysis showed that significant presence of isonitrile bonds in a more ordered film structure were important criteria contributing to the formation of vertically-aligned nanorods. The hydrophobicity of the CNx:H surface improved with the enhancement in the vertical alignment and uniformity in the distribution of the fibrous nanorod structures.
Excavatolide B Modulates the Electrophysiological Characteristics and Calcium Homeostasis of Atrial Myocytes
Authors: Hwang Hwong-Ru , Tai Buh-Yuan , Cheng Pao-Yun , Chen Ping-Nan , Sung Ping-Jyun , Wen Zhi-Hong , Hsu Chih-Hsueng
Published: January 2017

Severe bacterial infections caused by sepsis always result in profound physiological changes, including fever, hypotension, arrhythmia, necrosis of tissue, systemic multi-organ dysfunction, and finally death. The lipopolysaccharide (LPS) provokes an inflammatory response under sepsis, which may increase propensity to arrhythmogenesis. Excavatolide B (EXCB) possesses potent anti-inflammatory effects. However, it is not clear whether EXCB could modulate the electrophysiological characteristics and calcium homeostasis of atrial myocytes. This study investigated the effects of EXCB on the atrial myocytes exposed to lipopolysaccharide. A whole-cell patch clamp and indo-1 fluorimetric ratio technique was employed to record the action potential (AP), ionic currents, and intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in single, isolated rabbit left atrial (LA) cardiomyocytes, with and without LPS (1 μg/mL) and LPS + EXCB administration (10 μM) for 6 ± 1 h, in order to investigate the role of EXCB on atrial electrophysiology. In the presence of LPS, EXCB-treated LA myocytes (n = 13) had a longer AP duration at 20% (29 ± 2 vs. 20 ± 2 ms, p < 0.05), 50% (52 ± 4 vs. 40 ± 3 ms, p < 0.05), and 90% (85 ± 5 vs. 68 ± 3 ms, p < 0.05), compared to the LPS-treated cells (n = 12). LPS-treated LA myocytes showed a higher late sodium current, Na+/Ca2+ exchanger current, transient outward current, and delayed rectifier potassium current, but a lower l-type Ca2+ current, than the control LA myocytes. Treatment with EXCB reversed the LPS-induced alterations of the ionic currents. LPS-treated, EXCB-treated, and control LA myocytes exhibited similar Na+ currents. In addition, the LPS-treated LA myocytes exhibited a lower [Ca2+]i content and higher sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium content, than the controls. EXCB reversed the LPS-induced calcium alterations. In conclusion, EXCB modulates LPS-induced LA electrophysiological characteristics and calcium homeostasis, which may contribute to attenuating LPS-induced arrhythmogenesis.
Compounds from Terminalia mantaly L. (Combretaceae) Stem Bark Exhibit Potent Inhibition against Some Pathogenic Yeasts and Enzymes of Metabolic Significance
Authors: Tchuente Tchuenmogne Marthe , Kammalac Thierry , Gohlke Sebastian , Kouipou Rufin , Aslan Abdulselam , Kuzu Muslum , Comakli Veysel , Demirdag Ramazan , Ngouela Silvère , Tsamo Etienne , Sewald Norbert , Lenta Bruno , Boyom Fabrice
Published: January 2017

Background: Pathogenic yeasts resistance to current drugs emphasizes the need for new, safe, and cost-effective drugs. Also, new inhibitors are needed to control the effects of enzymes that are implicated in metabolic dysfunctions such as cancer, obesity, and epilepsy. Methods: The anti-yeast extract from Terminalia mantaly (Combretaceae) was fractionated and the structures of the isolated compounds established by means of spectroscopic analysis and comparison with literature data. Activity was assessed against Candida albicans, C. parapsilosis and C. krusei using the microdilution method, and against four enzymes of metabolic significance: glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, human erythrocyte carbonic anhydrase I and II, and glutathione S-transferase. Results: Seven compounds, 3,3′-di-O-methylellagic acid 4′-O-α-rhamnopyranoside; 3-O-methylellagic acid; arjungenin or 2,3,19,23-tetrahydroxyolean-12-en-28-oïc acid; arjunglucoside or 2,3,19,23-tetrahydroxyolean-12-en-28-oïc acid glucopyranoside; 2α,3α,24-trihydroxyolean-11,13(18)-dien-28-oïc acid; stigmasterol; and stigmasterol 3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside were isolated from the extract. Among those, 3,3′-di-O-methylellagic acid 4′-O-α-rhamnopyranoside, 3-O-methylellagic acid, and arjunglucoside showed anti-yeast activity comparable to that of reference fluconazole with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) below 32 µg/mL. Besides, Arjunglucoside potently inhibited the tested enzymes with 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) below 4 µM and inhibitory constant (Ki) <3 µM. Conclusions: The results achieved indicate that further SAR studies will likely identify potent hit derivatives that should subsequently enter the drug development pipeline.
MEMS Device for Quantitative In Situ Mechanical Testing in Electron Microscope
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Mao Shengcheng , Zhang Jianfei , Li Zhipeng , Deng Qingsong , Ning Jin , Yang Xudong , Wang Li , Ji Yuan , Li Xiaochen , Liu Yinong , Zhang Ze , Han Xiaodong
Published: January 2017

In this work, we designed a micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) device that allows simultaneous direct measurement of mechanical properties during deformation under external stress and characterization of the evolution of nanomaterial microstructure within a transmission electron microscope. This MEMS device makes it easy to establish the correlation between microstructure and mechanical properties of nanomaterials. The device uses piezoresistive sensors to measure the force and displacement of nanomaterials qualitatively, e.g., in wire and thin plate forms. The device has a theoretical displacement resolution of 0.19 nm and a force resolution of 2.1 μN. The device has a theoretical displacement range limit of 5.47 μm and a load range limit of 55.0 mN.
Dynamics of Microbeams under Multi-Frequency Excitations
Authors: Ibrahim Alwathiqbellah , Jaber Nizar , Chandran Akhil , Thirupathi Maloth , Younis Mohammad
Published: January 2017

This paper presents an investigation of the dynamics of microbeams under multiple harmonic electrostatic excitation frequencies. First, the response of a cantilever microbeam to two alternating current (AC) source excitation is examined. We show by simulations the response of the microbeam at primary resonance (near the fundamental natural frequency) and at secondary resonances (near half, superharmonic, and twice, subharmonic, the fundamental natural frequency). A multimode Galerkin method combined with the Euler-Bernoulli beam equation, accounting for the nonlinear electrostatic force, has been used to develop a reduced order model. The response of the cantilever microbeam to three AC source excitation is also investigated and shown as a promising technique to enhance the bandwidth of resonators. Finally, an experimental study of a clamped-clamped microbeam is conducted, demonstrating the multi-frequency excitation resonances using two, three, and four AC sources.
Dynamic Electroosmotic Flows of Power-Law Fluids in Rectangular Microchannels
Authors: Zhao Cunlu , Zhang Wenyao , Yang Chun
Published: January 2017

Dynamic characteristics of electroosmosis of a typical non-Newtonian liquid in a rectangular microchannel are investigated by using numerical simulations. The non-Newtonian behavior of liquids is assumed to obey the famous power-law model and then the mathematical model is solved numerically by using the finite element method. The results indicate that the non-Newtonian effect produces some noticeable dynamic responses in electroosmotic flow. Under a direct current (DC) driving electric field, it is found that the fluid responds more inertly to an external electric field and the steady-state velocity profile becomes more plug-like as the flow behavior index decreases. Under an alternating current (AC) driving electric field, the fluid is observed to experience more significant acceleration and the amplitude of oscillating velocity becomes larger as the fluid behavior index decreases. Furthermore, our investigation also shows that electroosmotic flow of power-law fluids under an AC/DC combined driving field is enhanced as compared with that under a pure DC electric field. These dynamic predictions are of practical use for the design of electroosmotically-driven microfluidic devices that analyze and process non-Newtonian fluids such as biofluids and polymeric solutions.
Pomegranate for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer: An Update
Authors: Sharma Pooja , McClees Sarah , Afaq Farrukh
Published: January 2017

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, and those who survive cancer may experience lasting difficulties, including treatment side effects, as well as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial struggles. Naturally-occurring agents from dietary fruits and vegetables have received considerable attention for the prevention and treatment of cancers. These natural agents are safe and cost efficient in contrast to expensive chemotherapeutic agents, which may induce significant side effects. The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit has been used for the prevention and treatment of a multitude of diseases and ailments for centuries in ancient cultures. Pomegranate exhibits strong antioxidant activity and is a rich source of anthocyanins, ellagitannins, and hydrolysable tannins. Studies have shown that the pomegranate fruit as well as its juice, extract, and oil exert anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-tumorigenic properties by modulating multiple signaling pathways, which suggest its use as a promising chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agent. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies highlighting the role of pomegranate in prevention and treatment of skin, breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancers.
Synthesis, Modelling, and Anticonvulsant Studies of New Quinazolines Showing Three Highly Active Compounds with Low Toxicity and High Affinity to the GABA-A Receptor
Authors: Zayed Mohamed , Ihmaid Saleh , Ahmed Hany , El-Adl Khaled , Asiri Ahmed , Omar Abdelsattar
Published: January 2017

Some novel fluorinated quinazolines (5a–j) were designed and synthesized to be evaluated for their anticonvulsant activity and their neurotoxicity. Structures of all newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by their infrared (IR), mass spectrometry (MS) spectra, 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), 13C-NMR, and elemental analysis (CHN). The anticonvulsant activity was evaluated by a subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) test and maximal electroshock (MES)-induced seizure test, while neurotoxicity was evaluated by a rotorod test. The molecular docking was performed for all newly-synthesized compounds to assess their binding affinities to the GABA-A receptor in order to rationalize their anticonvulsant activities in a qualitative way. The data obtained from the molecular modeling was correlated with that obtained from the biological screening. These data showed considerable anticonvulsant activity for all newly-synthesized compounds. Compounds 5b, 5c, and 5d showed the highest binding affinities toward the GABA-A receptor, along with the highest anticonvulsant activities in experimental mice. These compounds also showed low neurotoxicity and low toxicity in the median lethal dose test compared to the reference drugs. A GABA enzymatic assay was performed for these highly active compounds to confirm the obtained results and explain the possible mechanism for anticonvulsant action. The most active compounds might be used as leads for future modification and optimization.
Microbial Contribution to Wine Aroma and Its Intended Use for Wine Quality Improvement
Authors: Belda Ignacio , Ruiz Javier , Esteban-Fernández Adelaida , Navascués Eva , Marquina Domingo , Santos Antonio , Moreno-Arribas M.
Published: January 2017

Wine is a complex matrix that includes components with different chemical natures, the volatile compounds being responsible for wine aroma quality. The microbial ecosystem of grapes and wine, including Saccharomyces and non-Saccharomyces yeasts, as well as lactic acid bacteria, is considered by winemakers and oenologists as a decisive factor influencing wine aroma and consumer’s preferences. The challenges and opportunities emanating from the contribution of wine microbiome to the production of high quality wines are astounding. This review focuses on the current knowledge about the impact of microorganisms in wine aroma and flavour, and the biochemical reactions and pathways in which they participate, therefore contributing to both the quality and acceptability of wine. In this context, an overview of genetic and transcriptional studies to explain and interpret these effects is included, and new directions are proposed. It also considers the contribution of human oral microbiota to wine aroma conversion and perception during wine consumption. The potential use of wine yeasts and lactic acid bacteria as biological tools to enhance wine quality and the advent of promising advice allowed by pioneering -omics technologies on wine research are also discussed.
Therapeutic Effect of Cistanoside A on Bone Metabolism of Ovariectomized Mice
Authors: Xu Xiaoxue , Zhang Zhuanzhuan , Wang Wenping , Yao Huiqin , Ma Xueqin
Published: January 2017

Cistanoside A (Cis A), an active phenylethanoid glycoside isolated from Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma, has received our attention because of its possible role in the treatment of osteoporosis. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of Cis A on an ovariectomized (OVX) mice model and investigated its underlying molecular mechanisms of action. After 12 weeks of orally-administrated intervention, Cis A (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg body weight/day) exhibited significant antiosteoporotic effects on OVX mice, evidenced by enhanced bone strength, bone mineral density and improved trabecular bone microarchitecture. Meanwhile, the activities of bone resorption markers, including tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), deoxypyridinoline (DPD) and cathepsin K, were decreased, and the bioactivity of bone formation marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was increased. Mechanistically, Cis A inhibited the expression of TNF-receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6), an upstream molecule that is shared by both nuclear factor kappa-light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways and subsequently suppressed the levels of receptor activators of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL), downregulated the expression of NF-κB and upregulated osteoprotegerin (OPG), PI3K and Akt, which means Cis A possessed antiosteoporotic activity in ovariectomized mice via TRAF6-mediated NF-kappaB inactivation and PI3K/Akt activation. Put together, we present novel findings that Cis A, by downregulating TRAF6, coordinates the inhibition of NF-κB and stimulation of PI3K/Akt pathways to promote bone formation and prevent bone resorption. These data demonstrated the potential of Cis A as a promising agent for the treatment of osteoporosis disease.
A Socio-Ecological Approach to GIS Least-Cost Modelling for Regional Mining Infrastructure Planning: A Case Study from South-East Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Lechner Alex , Devi Bernadetta , Schleger Ashlee , Brown Greg , McKenna Phill , Ali Saleem , Rachmat Shanty , Syukril Muhammad , Rogers Paul
Published: January 2017

Regional planning approaches to mining infrastructure aim to reduce the conflict associated with mining operations and existing land uses, such as urban areas and biodiversity conservation, as well as the cumulative impacts that occur offsite. In this paper, we describe a method for conducting Geographical Information System (GIS) least-cost path and least-cost corridor analysis for linear mining infrastructure, such as roads. Least-cost path analysis identifies the optimal pathways between two locations as a function of the cost of traveling through different land use/cover types. In a case study from South-East Sulawesi, Indonesia, we identify potential linear networks for road infrastructure connecting mines, smelters, and ports. The method used interview data from government officials to characterise their orientation (perceived importance and positive/negative attitude) toward the social and environmental factors associated with mining infrastructure. A cost-surface was constructed by integrating spatial layers representing the social and environmental factors to identify areas that should be avoided and areas that were compatible with linear infrastructure using the least-cost path analysis. We compared infrastructure scenario outputs from local and national government officials by the degree of spatial overlap and found broad spatial agreement for infrastructure corridors. We conclude by discussing this approach in relation to the wider social-ecological and mine planning literature and how quantitative approaches can reduce the conflict associated with infrastructure planning.
Correction: Wang, J., et al. Dynamic Mapping of Rice Growth Parameters Using HJ-1 CCD Time Series Data. Remote Sens. 2016, 8, 931
Authors: Wang Jing , Huang Jingfeng , Gao Ping , Wei Chuanwen , Mansaray Lamin
Published: January 2017

The authors wish to make the following corrections to their paper [1].[...]
Assessment of Altimetric Range and Geophysical Corrections and Mean Sea Surface Models—Impacts on Sea Level Variability around the Indonesian Seas
Authors: Handoko Eko , Fernandes Maria , Lázaro Clara
Published: January 2017

The focus of this study is the assessment of the main range and geophysical corrections needed to derive accurate sea level time series from satellite altimetry in the Indonesia seas, the ultimate aim being the determination of sea level trend for this region. Due to its island nature, this is an area of large complexity for altimetric studies, a true laboratory for coastal altimetry. For this reason, the selection of the best corrections for sea level anomaly estimation from satellite altimetry is of particular relevance in the Indonesian seas. The same happens with the mean sea surface adopted in the sea level anomaly computation due to the large gradients of the mean sea surface in this part of the ocean. This study has been performed using altimetric data from the three reference missions, TOPEX/Poseidon, Jason-1 and Jason-2, extracted from the Radar Altimeter Database System. Analyses of sea level anomaly variance differences, function of distance from the coast and at altimeter crossovers were used to assess the quality of the various corrections and mean sea surface models. The selected set of corrections and mean sea surface have been used to estimate the sea level anomaly time series. The rate of sea level rise for the Indonesian seas was found to be 4.2 ± 0.2 mm/year over the 23-year period (1993–2015).
A Hierarchical Building Segmentation in Digital Surface Models for 3D Reconstruction
Authors: Yan Yiming , Gao Fengjiao , Deng Shupei , Su Nan
Published: January 2017

In this study, a hierarchical method for segmenting buildings in a digital surface model (DSM), which is used in a novel framework for 3D reconstruction, is proposed. Most 3D reconstructions of buildings are model-based. However, the limitations of these methods are overreliance on completeness of the offline-constructed models of buildings, and the completeness is not easily guaranteed since in modern cities buildings can be of a variety of types. Therefore, a model-free framework using high precision DSM and texture-images buildings was introduced. There are two key problems with this framework. The first one is how to accurately extract the buildings from the DSM. Most segmentation methods are limited by either the terrain factors or the difficult choice of parameter-settings. A level-set method are employed to roughly find the building regions in the DSM, and then a recently proposed ‘occlusions of random textures model’ are used to enhance the local segmentation of the buildings. The second problem is how to generate the facades of buildings. Synergizing with the corresponding texture-images, we propose a roof-contour guided interpolation of building facades. The 3D reconstruction results achieved by airborne-like images and satellites are compared. Experiments show that the segmentation method has good performance, and 3D reconstruction is easily performed by our framework, and better visualization results can be obtained by airborne-like images, which can be further replaced by UAV images.
Outage Probability Minimization for Energy Harvesting Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Fan , Jing Tao , Huo Yan , Jiang Kaiwei
Published: January 2017

The incorporation of cognitive radio (CR) capability in wireless sensor networks yields a promising network paradigm known as CR sensor networks (CRSNs), which is able to provide spectrum efficient data communication. However, due to the high energy consumption results from spectrum sensing, as well as subsequent data transmission, the energy supply for the conventional sensor nodes powered by batteries is regarded as a severe bottleneck for sustainable operation. The energy harvesting technique, which gathers energy from the ambient environment, is regarded as a promising solution to perpetually power-up energy-limited devices with a continual source of energy. Therefore, applying the energy harvesting (EH) technique in CRSNs is able to facilitate the self-sustainability of the energy-limited sensors. The primary concern of this study is to design sensing-transmission policies to minimize the long-term outage probability of EH-powered CR sensor nodes. We formulate this problem as an infinite-horizon discounted Markov decision process and propose an ϵ-optimal sensing-transmission (ST) policy through using the value iteration algorithm. ϵ is the error bound between the ST policy and the optimal policy, which can be pre-defined according to the actual need. Moreover, for a special case that the signal-to-noise (SNR) power ratio is sufficiently high, we present an efficient transmission (ET) policy and prove that the ET policy achieves the same performance with the ST policy. Finally, extensive simulations are conducted to evaluate the performance of the proposed policies and the impaction of various network parameters.