bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The SOI Micro-Accelerometer Fabricated by Sacrificial Process
Authors: Zhang Zhao Yun , Su Wei , Shi Zhi Gui , Tang Bin , Xiong Zhuang , Chen Yin Hui , Peng Bo
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the fabricationof SOI micro-accelerometer by using the sacrificial process. The structure ofthe SOI micro-accelerometer is designed and analyzed by the finite element modeling.As for the fabrication issue, the problem of electrode metal layer to standagainst HF etching is first studied. Second, to prevent the over-etching of theBOX layer during structure releasing process, the etching rate of the BOX layeris carefully investigated and an optimal etching duration is obtained. Third,the adhesion phenomenon between comb fingers during releasing process isstudied and optimized finger geometry is proposed to solve such problem.Devices based on the sacrificial process is carried out successfully, themeasurement results show that the sensitivity of the accelerometer is about 35mV/g, with a maximal measurement error of 12mg, and a maximal nonlinear error of0.41% within 50g.
A Second Differential Bandpass Filter with Tuning Center Frequency and Constant Q
Authors: Zhao Yan Xiao , Zhang Wan Rong , Xie Hong Yun , Huang Xin , Zhang Liang Hao
Published: May 2015

A second order differential filter with Q-enhancement and tunable active inductor is presented. The design technique for a tunable Q-enhancement SiGe HBT active inductor operating in the wide RF-band for the filter is described. Multi-regulated Cascode circuit is employed to enhance the quality factor Q by increasing the output impedance. Tunable active resistor is introduced to boost the tuning ability of the active inductor. Employing the proposed active inductor, the center frequency of the filter is tuned in the frequency of 1.05~2.45GHz by adjusting the bias current, Q reducing with different bias current can be compensated via tuning the feedback effective resistance of the active inductor, and Q has almost constant value of 209~225 at the frequency of 2.15GHz.
Trajectory Guidance Law for MAV Based on MEMS Sensor/GPS
Authors: Cai Yu , Xiong Wei , Cao Xiao Tang , Zhou Zhao Ying
Published: May 2015

This paper studies a new trajectory guidance logic system for Bank-To-Turn fixed-wing (BTT) micro air vehicle (MAV) based on MEMS sensor / GPS , and introduce the method of estimating the navigation information from MEMS sensors and GPS. a nonlinear guided logic based on literature is utilized to get the desired roll angle , and a total energy controller is utilized in the longitudinal loop. Based on the kinematic model of the coordinated turning of MAV, the system can ensure that the aircraft stably track a flight plan segment. Flight tests on MAV prove the feasibility of the trajectory guidance logic system.
Plastic Strain Effect in Progressive Multi-Cycle Nano-Indentation Measurement
Authors: Wei Qi Long , Li Xiao Yuan , Yue Xiao Bin , Lei Da Jiang
Published: May 2015

Properties of materials and their variations in depth direction in the same location could be measured directly by progressive multi-cycle (PMC) nanoindentation method. But influences of strain-hardening on measured results in this process haven’t been researched thoroughly. Measurements on an austenitic steel sample and a fused silica sample were conducted by PMC nanoindentation and standard nanoindentation methods, and differences of the results by two methods of the two materials were analyzed. It was found that hardness of austenitic steel measured by PMC method decreased monotonously with increased depth, while hardness measured by standard method decreased to stable value with increased depth. And properties of fused silica measured by both methods accorded much well. Based on analysis of plastic strain during indentation process, it was deduced that austenitic steel with high plasticity could introduce second convergence of plastic strain and stress in PMC indentation process, which made measured hardness decrease monotonously with increased depth.
Micro-Fabricated Pre-Concentrator Filled with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Adsorbent Material
Authors: Zhu Xiao Feng , Ning Zhan Wu , Sun Jian Hai , Ma Tian Jun , Zhang Yan Ni , Liu Jin Hua
Published: May 2015

As concentration of components in environmental gas is very low, and the available analytical instruments are not sufficiently sensitive, so that micro pre-concentrators developed for effectively concentrating components are very important and necessary. Therefore, in this work a micro pre-concentrator was fabricated for concentrating trace gas. The micro pre-concentrator with 4 parallel channels filled with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWCNTs) as adsorbent materials was developed for concentrating volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This choice was done on the basis of the consideration: 4 parallel channels ensure that the pre-concentrator can be filled with a sufficient amount of adsorbent materials. Moreover, SWCNTs was acted as adsorbent material owing to their chemical and thermal stability, a high surface-to-volume ratio, and a large affinity to the non-polar compounds. The experimental results show that the micro pre-concentrator effectively concentrated benzene with a concentration factor of 15 and the chromatography peak broadening was also greatly compressed.
A Micro Direct Formic Acid Fuel Cell with PDMS Fluid Flow Plates
Authors: Wang Ting Ting , Zeng Yi Bo , Zhao Zu Guang , Guo Hang
Published: May 2015

Micro direct formic acid fuel cell (DFAFC) is currently one of the promising technologies to power micro/nano devices and systems. Compared with micro direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), micro (DFAFC) can have higher proton conductivity and energy density, and crossover of formic acid through Nafion membrane is significantly less than methanol. In this paper, a micro DFAFC has been developed. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is chosen as the material for fluid flow plates in both cathode and anode of the micro DFAFC in order to simplify its structure and improve its packaging performance. The developed micro DFAFC has been tested and results show that its input concentration of formic acid solution can reach up to 10mol/L with its peak power output of 13.6mW/cm2 and maximum output current of 97.66mA/cm2.
The Buckling Simulation of Planar W-Form Micro-Spring in MEMS Safety and Arming Device
Authors: Wang Fu Fu , Lou Wen Zhong , Liu Fang Yi , Wang Da Kui , Lu Jun , Wu Jian , Guo Xu Hong , Zhang Zhe
Published: May 2015

This paper describes the stability research of MEMS spring used in fuze. The micro-spring in thickness dimension is thin, while the size of axial direction is larger, during compression the micro-spring is prone to suffering buckling and become unstable. In order to consider the extreme environments in launch, this paper aims to carry out buckling simulation in high or low temperature, by using FEM analysis. The effect of temperature load on the micro-spring buckling can be obtained. These researches can provide theory reference for the design applications and reliability analysis of micro-spring, and also lay the foundation for the response characteristics of the micro-scale elastic components under compressive force.
Accurate and Traceable Calibration of the Stiffness of Various AFM Cantilevers
Authors: Zhao Yu Wen , Song Yun Peng , Wu Sen , Fu Xing
Published: May 2015

Atomic force microscope (AFM) is widely used to measure nanoforce in the analysis of nanomechanical and biomechanical properties. As the critical factor in the nanoforce measurement, the stiffness of the AFM cantilever must be determined properly. In this paper, an accurate and SI-traceable calibration method is presented to obtain the stiffness of the AFM cantilever in the normal direction. The calibration system consists of a homemade AFM head and an ultra-precision electromagnetic balance. The calibration is based on the Hooke's law i.e. the stiffness is equal to the force divided by the deflection of the cantilever. With this system, three kinds of cantilevers were calibrated. The relative standard deviation is better than 1%. The results of these experiments showed good accuracy and repeatability.
Intelligent Logistics Monitoring Microsystem Based on STM32
Authors: Wang Feng , Lou Wen Zhong , Guo Ming Ru , Lu Yu Fei
Published: May 2015

A intelligent logistics monitoring microsystem has been designed based on STM32F103T8, which is high ability, low power consumption and low cost. The radio frequency (RF) chip CC1101, the acceleration sensor BMA280 and the temperature and humidity sensor HTU21D are selected to acquire the corresponding data for the intelligent logistics microsystem, which are ultra-low power consumption and ultra-small size. Moreover, in order to further reduce power consumption, the interrupt mode is adopted in the data acquisition module and the sleep mode is used in the MCU module in the software control. On the other hand, in order to further optimize the performance of miniaturization, the SWD (Serial Wire Debug) protocol is used. Meanwhile, the system will alarm the transportation officer once the acquired data met or exceed the threshold, which will help him to take corresponding measures timely, thus reducing the risk of occurrence effectively.
The Displacement Characteristics of Piezoelectric Ceramic Micro Actuators Evaluated by Laser Interferometer
Authors: Wu Hong , He Long Biao , Zhou Jing Lin , Yang Ping
Published: May 2015

Understanding and measuring the displacement characteristics of piezoelectric ceramic with electric field exciting are particularly important. The piezoelectric coefficient d33 as the indication of its displacement characteristics, is the key parameter of its energy transformation. In this paper, the characteristics of two kinds of piezoelectric ceramics, PZT4 and PZT5 were studied by the laser interferometer measurement. The influence factors of d33 were studied, including the frequency and amplitude of the exciting signal, the ways of holding, and the loading sequence. Then the measurement results of piezoelectric ceramic with laser interferometer and the quasi-static method were compared, the results showed they had consistence and the analysis of the piezoelectric coefficient d33 measurement by converse piezoelectric effect and by piezoelectric effect was discussed.
Performance-Enhanced Heat Converter Used in FPA Utilizing a SiOx/Al Corrugated Micro-Cantilever Actuator
Authors: Kong Yan Mei , Liu Rui Wen , Jiao Bin Bin , Lu Di Ke , Zhu En Cheng , Fu Qiang Sheng , Chen Da Peng
Published: May 2015

This paper proposes a performance-enhanced SiOx/Al corrugated micro-cantilever structure, which transfers heat to mechanical deformation. Analytical simulations are carried out using the Finite Element Method (FEM), compared to the traditional straight bi-material structure (TSBMS) with same lengthL, the corrugated bi-material structures (CBMS) have higher temperature response sensitivitySTand lower stiffness factor K. Furthermore, two types of cantilever was fabricated, and the test result verifies the change of the stiffness factorK. Finally, the thermal mechanical uncooled infrared focal plane array (FPA) with CBMS was fabricated, and the test results show that the bending response of the CBMS is about 2 times greater than TSBMS with same length. The CBMS proposed in this paper could be used widely in MEMS apparatus field based on bimaterial microcantilever.
Band Engineering of Graphene Nanomesh Field Effect Transistor under Multiscale Simulation Framework
Authors: Lv Ya Wei , Wang Hao , Chang Sheng , Yu Zhi Hao , He Jin , Huang Qi Jun
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we investigate the impact of the size of holes in graphene nanomesh. A multiscale simulation framework is utilized to simulate different structures flexibly. These structures include an intact graphene nanoribbon (GNR), a graphene nanomesh with 4 atoms missing periodic (4-atom holes GNM), and a graphene nanomesh with 6 atoms missing periodic (6-atom holes GNM). Simulation results indicate that a subband appears in the conduction band in 6-atom holes GNM. In addition, interface states which come from the interactions among dangling bonds can significantly reduce the bandgaps of GNMs and induce a pinning effect to their Fermi energies.
Analysis of Harmonic Distortion of Sigma-Delta Modulator
Authors: Yan Dong , Jiang Wen Ning , Tao Si Qi , Yang Jian , Yin Liang , Liu Xiao Wei
Published: May 2015

In this paper, the harmonic distortion of fourth-order sigma-delta modulator is analyzed. Based on the analysis non-ideal models are established and simulation results demonstrated the validity of these models. The non-linear capacitors introduce harmonic distortion and the non-linear on-resistance nearly only introduce second order harmonic distortion. The non-ideal integrators can increase the noise floor of the modulator.The fully-differential topology can be adopted to eliminate even order harmonic distortion and the operational amplifier with high performance can also be used to decrease noise floor of the modulator.
Theoretical Investigation of the Electronic Properties in BN Nanowires
Authors: Zhuang Cui Cui , Li Ling , Fan Si Di , Ban Chun Cheng , Liu Xiao Wei
Published: May 2015

Theoretical investigation of BN nanowires have been performed by density functional theory (DFT). The energy gap and electronic properties of BN nanowires (BNNWs) in the direction of growth [001] and [111] have been calculated. The calculations show that both nanowires exhibit a wide band gap at center of Brillouin zone, and the calculated band gaps are 1.90eV and 2.40eV, respectively. Noticeably, in the absence of any bias voltage, the transmission spectrum exhibit a region of zero transmission and a step-like behavior.
Dynamic Modeling and Output Characteristic Analysis of a Micro Bistable Piezoelectric Generator
Authors: Mao Xin Hua , He Qing , Huang Ting Ting
Published: May 2015

For effectively harvesting the broadband and low-frequency vibration energies in real environment, a micro bistable piezoelectric generator, without containing magnet, is designed. On the basis of analysis the nonlinear behavior of the stiffness, damping and the electromechanical coupling coefficient about the bistable vibration system, a precise mechanical-electric transfer model is built. The output characteristic of the piezoelectric generator is simulated and tested. The results showed that the piezoelectric generator can effectively harvest the broadband and low frequency vibration energies. And the output voltage can meet the electricity demand of a wireless sensor network node. The structure of the piezoelectric generator does not contain magnets, and it is easy to realize miniaturization and integration.
Utility of forensic detection of rabies virus in decomposed exhumed dog carcasses
Authors: Markotter Wanda , Coertse Jessica , Le Roux Kevin , Peens Joey , Weyer Jacqueline , Blumberg Lucille , Nel Louis H.
Published: May 2015

This report describes four suspected rabies cases in domestic dogs that were involved inhuman exposures. In all these cases, the animals were buried for substantial times beforerabies testing was performed. Animal rabies is endemic in South Africa and domestic dogsare the main vector for transmission to humans. Diagnosis of rabies in humans is complicated,and diagnosis in the animal vector can provide circumstantial evidence to support clinicaldiagnosis of rabies in humans. The gold standard diagnostic method, fluorescent antibodytest (FAT), only delivers reliable results when performed on fresh brain material and thereforedecomposed samples are rarely submitted for diagnostic testing. Severely decomposed brainmaterial was tested for the presence of rabies virus genomic material using a quantitativereal-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (q-real-time RT-PCR) assaywhen conventional molecular methods were unsuccessful. This may be a useful tool in theinvestigation of cases where the opportunity to sample the suspected animals post mortem wasforfeited and which would not be possible with conventional testing methodologies becauseof the decomposition of the material.
Editorial
Authors: Lorenzo Hernández María
Published: May 2015

La animación es un medio híbrido, siempre a medio camino de otros mundos: propiamente madre del cine, durante mucho tiempo, y quizá todavía, se ha descuidado su estudio por ser considerada un mero subgénero del lenguaje cinematográfico.
Sensational Subjects
Authors: Jervis John
Published: May 2015

Under what conditions does ‘sensation’ become ‘sensational’?

By the early nineteenth century murder had become the staple of the sensationalizing popular press, and gruesome descriptions were deployed to make a direct impact on the ‘sensations’ of the reader. Later, concern with the thrills, spills, and shocks of modern life was being articulated in the language of sensation, and media sensationalism was already being seen both as contributing to this process and as magnifying its impact, just as sensation was, in turn, taken up by literature, art and film. Finally, it seems as though the dramatization of these experiences in an era of media panics over terrorism, paedophilia, etc, has taken an overtly melodramatic form, in which battles of good and evil play out across the landscapes of our lives.

Sensational Subjects develops an innovative, interdisciplinary approach to exploring these themes, their impact and their implications for understanding the modern world.
Between Levinas and Lacan
Authors: Ruti Mari
Published: May 2015

Levinas and Lacan, two giants of contemporary theory, represent schools of thought that seem poles apart. In this major new work, Mari Ruti charts the ethical terrain between them.

At first glance, Levinansian and Lacanian approaches may seem more or less incompatible, and in many ways they are, particularly in their understanding of the self-other relationship. For both Levinas and Lacan, the subject’s relationship to the other is primary in the sense that the subject, literally, does not exist without the other, but they see the challenge of ethics quite differently: while Levinas laments our failure to adequately meet the ethical demand arising from the other, Lacan laments the consequences of our failure to adequately escape the forms this demand frequently takes.

Although this book outlines the major differences between Levinas and Judith Butler on the one hand and Lacan, Slavoj Žižek, and Alain Badiou on the other, Ruti proposes that underneath these differences one can discern a shared concern with the thorny relationship between the singularity of experience and the universality of ethics.

Between Levinas and Lacan is an important new book for anyone interested in contemporary theory, ethics, psychoanalysis, and feminist and queer theory.
Mercury vapor air–surface exchange measured by collocated micrometeorological and enclosure methods – Part II: Bias and uncertainty analysis
Authors: Zhu W. , Sommar J. , Lin C.-J. , Feng X.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Dynamic flux chambers (DFCs) and micrometeorological (MM) methods are extensively deployed for gauging air–surface Hg0 gas exchange. However, a systematic evaluation of the precision of the contemporary Hg0 flux quantification methods is not available. In this study, the uncertainty in Hg0 flux measured by the relaxed eddy accumulation (REA) method, the aerodynamic gradient method (AGM), the modified Bowen ratio (MBR) method, as well as DFC of traditional (TDFC) and novel (NDFC) designs, are assessed using a robust data set from two field intercomparison campaigns. The absolute precision in Hg0 concentration difference (ΔC) measurements is estimated at 0.064 ng m−3 for the gradient-based MBR and AGM systems. For the REA system, the parameter is Hg0 concentration (C) dependent at 0.069 + 0.022C. During the campaigns, 57 and 62 % of the individual vertical gradient measurements are found to be significantly different from 0, while for the REA technique, the percentage of significant observations is lower. For the chambers, non-significant fluxes are confined to a few night-time periods with varying ambient Hg$^{0}$ concentrations. Relative bias for DFC-derived fluxes is estimated to be ~ ±10, and ~ 85% of the flux bias is within ±2 ng m−2 h−1 in absolute terms. The DFC flux bias follows a diurnal cycle, which is largely affected by the forced temperature and irradiation bias in the chambers. Due to contrasting prevailing micrometeorological conditions, the relative uncertainty (median) in turbulent exchange parameters differs by nearly a factor of 2 between the campaigns, while that in ΔC measurement is fairly consistent. The estimated flux uncertainties for the triad of MM techniques are 16–27, 12–23 and 19–31% (interquartile range) for the AGM, MBR and REA methods, respectively. This study indicates that flux-gradient-based techniques (MBR and AGM) are preferable to REA in quantifying Hg0 flux over ecosystems with low vegetation height. A limitation of all Hg0 flux measurement systems investigated is their inability to obtain synchronous samples for the calculation of ΔC. This reduces the precision of flux quantification, particularly in the MM systems under non-stationarity of ambient Hg0 concentration. For future applications, it is recommended to accomplish ΔC derivation from simultaneous collected samples.
A better understanding of hydroxyl radical photochemical sources in cloud waters collected at the puy de Dôme station: experimental vs. modeled formation rates
Authors: Bianco A. , Passananti M. , Perroux H. , Voyard G. , Mouchel-Vallon C. , Chaumerliac N. , Mailhot G. , Deguillaume L. , Brigante M.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The oxidative capacity of the cloud aqueous phase is investigated during three field campaigns from 2013 to 2014 at the top of the puy de Dôme station (PUY) in France. Forty-one cloud samples are collected, and the corresponding air masses are classified as highly marine, marine and continental. Hydroxyl radical (HO·) formation rates (RHO·f) are determined using a photochemical setup (Xenon lamp that can reproduce the solar spectrum) and a chemical probe coupled with spectroscopic analysis that can trap all of the generated radicals for each sample. Using this method, the obtained values correspond to the total formation of HO· without its chemical sinks. These formation rates are correlated with the concentrations of the naturally occurring sources of HO·, including hydrogen peroxide, nitrite, nitrate and iron. The total hydroxyl radical formation rates are measured as ranging from approximately 2 × 10−11 to 4 × 10−10 M s−1, and the hydroxyl radical quantum yield formation (ΦHO·) is estimated between 10−4 and 10−2. Experimental values are compared with modeled formation rates calculated by the model of multiphase cloud chemistry (M2C2), considering only the chemical sources of the hydroxyl radicals. The comparison between the experimental and the modeled results suggests that the photoreactivity of the iron species as a source of HO· is overestimated by the model, and H2O2 photolysis represents the most important source of this radical (between 70 and 99%) for the cloud water sampled at the PUY station (primarily marine and continental).
Thermodynamics of the formation of sulfuric acid dimers in the binary (H2SO4-H2O) and ternary (H2SO4-H2O-NH3) system
Authors: Kürten A. , Münch S. , Rondo L. , Bianchi F. , Duplissy J. , Jokinen T. , Junninen H. , Sarnela N. , Schobesberger S. , Simon M. , Sipilä M. , Almeida J. , Amorim A. , Dommen J. , Donahue N. M. , Dunne E. M. , Flagan R. C. , Franchin A. , Kirkby J. , Kupc A. , Makhmutov V. , Petäjä T. , Praplan A. P. , Riccobono F. , Steiner G. , Tomé A. , Tsagkogeorgas G. , Wagner P. E. , Wimmer D. , Baltensperger U. , Kulmala M. , Worsnop D. R. , Curtius J.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Sulfuric acid is an important gas influencing atmospheric new particle formation (NPF). Both the binary (H2SO4-H2O) system, and the ternary system involving ammonia (H2SO4-H2O-NH3) may be important in the free troposphere. An essential step in the nucleation of aerosol particles from gas-phase precursors is the formation of a dimer, so an understanding of the thermodynamics of dimer formation over a wide range of atmospheric conditions is essential to describe NPF. We have used the CLOUD chamber to conduct nucleation experiments for these systems at temperatures from 208 to 248 K. Neutral monomer and dimer concentrations of sulfuric acid were measured using a Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometer (CIMS). From these measurements dimer evaporation rates in the binary system were derived for temperatures of 208 and 223 K. We compare these results to literature data from a previous study that was conducted at higher temperatures but is in good agreement with the present study. For the ternary system the formation of H2SO4 • NH3 is very likely an essential step in the formation of sulfuric acid dimers, which were measured at 210, 223, and 248 K. We estimate the thermodynamic properties (dH and dS) of the H2SO4 • NH3 cluster using a simple heuristic model and the measured data. Furthermore, we report the first measurements of large neutral sulfuric acid clusters containing as many as 10 sulfuric acid molecules for the binary system using Chemical Ionization-Atmospheric Pressure interface-Time Of Flight (CI-APi-TOF) mass spectrometry.
Fuzzy logic filtering of radar reflectivity to remove non-meteorological echoes using dual polarization radar moments
Authors: Dufton D. R. L. , Collier C. G.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The ability of a fuzzy logic classifier to dynamically identify non-meteorological radar echoes is demonstrated using data from the National Centre for Atmospheric Science dual polarisation, Doppler, X-band mobile radar. Dynamic filtering of radar echoes is required due to the variable presence of spurious targets, which can include insects, ground clutter and background noise. The fuzzy logic classifier described here uses novel multi-vertex membership functions which allow a range of distributions to be incorporated into the final decision. These membership functions are derived using empirical observations, from a subset of the available radar data. The classifier incorporates a threshold of certainty (25% of the total possible membership score) into the final fractional defuzzification to improve the reliability of the results. It is shown that the addition of linear texture fields, specifically the texture of the cross-correlation coefficient, differential phase shift and differential reflectivity, to the classifier along with standard dual polarisation radar moments enhances the ability of the fuzzy classifier to identify multiple features. Examples from the Convective Precipitation Experiment (COPE) show the ability of the filter to identify insects (18 August 2013) and ground clutter in the presence of precipitation (17 August 2013). Medium duration rainfall accumulations across the whole of the COPE campaign show the benefit of applying the filter prior to making quantitative precipitation estimates. A second deployment at a second field site (Burn Airfield, 6 October 2014) shows the applicability of the method to multiple locations, with small echo features, including power lines and cooling towers, being successfully identified by the classifier without modification of the membership functions from the previous deployment. The fuzzy logic filter described can also be run in near real time, with a delay of less than one minute, allowing its use on future field campaigns.
An investigation of long-distance propagation of gravity waves under CAWSES India Phase II Programme
Authors: Parihar N. , Taori A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Coordinated measurements of airglow features from the mesosphere–lower thermosphere (MLT) region were performed at Allahabad (25.5° N, 81.9° E) and Gadanki (13.5° N, 79.2° E), India to study the propagation of gravity waves in 13–27° N latitude range during the period June 2009 to May 2010 under CAWSES (Climate And Weather of Sun Earth System) India Phase II Programme. At Allahabad, imaging observations of OH broadband emissions and OI 557.7 nm emission were made using an all-sky imager, while at Gadanki photometric measurements of OH (6, 2) Meinel band and O2 (0, 1) Atmospheric band emissions were carried out. On many occasions, the nightly observations reveal the presence of similar waves at both locations. Typically, the period of observed similar waves lay in the 2.2–4.5 h range, had large phase speeds (~ 77–331 m s−1) and large wavelengths (~ 1194–2746 km). The images of outgoing long-wave radiation activity of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the high-resolution infrared images of KALPANA-1 satellite suggest that such waves possibly originated from some nearby convective sources. An analysis of their propagation characteristics in conjunction with SABER/TIMED temperature profiles and Horizontal Wind Model (HWM 2007) wind estimates suggest that the waves propagated over long distances (~ 1200–2000 km) in atmospheric ducts.
Characterization of active and total fungal communities in the atmosphere over the Amazon rainforest
Authors: Womack A. M. , Artaxo P. E. , Ishida F. Y. , Mueller R. C. , Saleska S. R. , Wiedemann K. T. , Bohannan B. J. M. , Green J. L.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Fungi are ubiquitous in the atmosphere and may play an important role in atmospheric processes. We investigated the composition and diversity of fungal communities over the Amazon rainforest canopy and compared these communities to fungal communities found in terrestrial environments. We characterized the total fungal community and the metabolically active portion of the community using high-throughout DNA and RNA sequencing and compared these data to predictions generated by a mass-balance model. We found that the total community was primarily comprised of fungi from the phylum Basidiomycota. In contrast, the active community was primarily composed of members of the phylum Ascomycota and included a high relative abundance of lichen fungi, which were not detected in the total community. The relative abundance of Basidiomycota and Ascomycota in the total and active communities was consistent with our model predictions, suggesting that this result was driven by the relative size and number of spores produced by these groups. When compared to other environments, fungal communities in the atmosphere were most similar to communities found in tropical soils and leaf surfaces, suggesting that inputs of fungi to the atmosphere are from local, rather than distant, sources. Our results demonstrate that there are significant differences in the composition of the total and active fungal communities in the atmosphere, and that lichen fungi, which have been shown to be efficient ice nucleators, may be abundant members of active atmospheric fungal communities over the forest canopy.
Nitrogen cycling in shallow low oxygen coastal waters off Peru from nitrite and nitrate nitrogen and oxygen isotopes
Authors: Hu H. , Bourbonnais A. , Larkum J. , Bange H. W. , Altabet M. A.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. O2 minimum zones (OMZ) of the world's oceans are important locations for microbial dissimilatory NO3- reduction and subsequent loss of combined nitrogen (N) to biogenic N2 gas. This is particularly so when the OMZ is coupled to a region of high productivity leading to high rates of N-loss as found in the coastal upwelling region off Peru. Stable N isotope ratios (and O in the case of NO3- and NO2-) can be used as natural tracers of OMZ N-cycling because of distinct kinetic isotope effects associated with microbially-mediated N-cycle transformations. Here we present NO2- and NO3- stable isotope data from the nearshore upwelling region off Callao, Peru. Subsurface O2 was generally depleted below about 30 m depth with O2 less than 10 μM, while NO2- concentrations were high, ranging from 6 to 10 μM and NO3- was in places strongly depleted to near 0 μM. We observed for the first time, a positive linear relationship between NO2- δ15N and δ18O at our coastal stations, analogous to that of NO3- N and O isotopes during assimilatory and dissimilatory reduction. This relationship is likely the result of rapid NO2- turnover due to higher organic matter flux in these coastal upwelling waters. No such relationship was observed at offshore stations where slower turnover of NO2- facilitates dominance of isotope exchange with water. We also evaluate the overall isotope fractionation effect for N-loss in this system using several approaches that vary in their underlying assumptions. While there are differences in apparent fractionation factor (ε) for N-loss as calculated from the δ15N of [NO3-], DIN, or biogenic N2, values for ε are generally much lower than previously reported, reaching as low as 6.5‰. A possible explanation is the influence of sedimentary N-loss at our inshore stations which incurs highly suppressed isotope fractionation.
FACIAL FEATURES DETECTION USING TEXTURE HOUGH TRANSFORM
Authors: Gorbatsevich V. S.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The paper presents an original method for object detection. The “texture” Hough transform is used as the main tool in the search. Unlike classical generalized Hough transform, this variation uses texture LBP descriptor as a primitive for voting. The voting weight of each primitive is assumed by learning at a training set. This paper gives an overview of an original method for weights learning, and a number of ways to get the maximum searching algorithm speed on practice.
PRECISE HEAD TRACKING IN HEARING APPLICATIONS
Authors: Helle A. M. , Pilinski J. , Luhmann T.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. The paper gives an overview about two research projects, both dealing with optical head tracking in hearing applications. As part of the project “Development of a real-time low-cost tracking system for medical and audiological problems (ELCoT)” a cost-effective single camera 3D tracking system has been developed which enables the detection of arm and head movements of human patients. Amongst others, the measuring system is designed for a new hearing test (based on the “Mainzer Kindertisch”), which analyzes the directional hearing capabilities of children in cooperation with the research project ERKI (Evaluation of acoustic sound source localization for children). As part of the research project framework “Hearing in everyday life (HALLO)” a stereo tracking system is being used for analyzing the head movement of human patients during complex acoustic events. Together with the consideration of biosignals like skin conductance the speech comprehension and listening effort of persons with reduced hearing ability, especially in situations with background noise, is evaluated. For both projects the system design, accuracy aspects and results of practical tests are discussed.
MUSIC-ELICITED EMOTION IDENTIFICATION USING OPTICAL FLOW ANALYSIS OF HUMAN FACE
Authors: Kniaz V. V. , Smirnova Z. N.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. Human emotion identification from image sequences is highly demanded nowadays. The range of possible applications can vary from an automatic smile shutter function of consumer grade digital cameras to Biofied Building technologies, which enables communication between building space and residents. The highly perceptual nature of human emotions leads to the complexity of their classification and identification. The main question arises from the subjective quality of emotional classification of events that elicit human emotions. A variety of methods for formal classification of emotions were developed in musical psychology. This work is focused on identification of human emotions evoked by musical pieces using human face tracking and optical flow analysis. Facial feature tracking algorithm used for facial feature speed and position estimation is presented. Facial features were extracted from each image sequence using human face tracking with local binary patterns (LBP) features. Accurate relative speeds of facial features were estimated using optical flow analysis. Obtained relative positions and speeds were used as the output facial emotion vector. The algorithm was tested using original software and recorded image sequences. The proposed technique proves to give a robust identification of human emotions elicited by musical pieces. The estimated models could be used for human emotion identification from image sequences in such fields as emotion based musical background or mood dependent radio.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment in Refractory Glaucoma Patients: Results at 1 Year of Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Melamed Shlomo , Goldenfeld Modi , Cotlear Daniel , Skaat Alon , Moroz Iris
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the ultrasonic circular cyclo-coagulation procedure using high-intensity focused ultrasound by a miniaturized annular device containing 6 piezoceramic transducers in patients with refractory glaucoma.

Methods

This was a prospective interventional noncomparative study of 20 eyes of 20 patients with refractory glaucoma. All eyes were treated with 6 activated transducers operating at 21 MHz. Ultrasound biomicroscopy and a complete ophthalmic examination were performed before the procedure and at 1 day, 1 week, and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the procedure. Primary outcomes were surgical success (defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction from baseline ≥20% and IOP >5 mm Hg) at the last follow-up visit. Secondary outcomes were mean IOP at each follow-up visit compared to baseline, medication use, complications, and re-interventions.

Results

Intraocular pressure was significantly reduced (p<0.01) from a mean preoperative value of 36.4 ± 5.7 mm Hg to a mean postoperative value of 22.5 ± 10.3 mm Hg at 12 months. Four patients needed to be re-treated. The mean IOP reduction achieved was 38%. Surgical success was achieved in 13 of 20 eyes (65%). No major intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusions

Ultrasonic circular cyclo-coagulation using high-intensity focused ultrasound delivered by a circular miniaturized device containing 6 piezoceramic transducers is an effective and well-tolerated method to reduce IOP in patients with refractory glaucoma.
Hydropolish: A Controlled Trial on a Technique to Eradicate Residual Cortical Lens Fibers in Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery
Authors: Wang Sarah B. , Quah Xhian M. , Amjadi Shahriar , Tong Jessica , Francis Ian C.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To assess the efficacy and safety of a noncontact, fluid-based capsular polishing technique (hydropolish) to remove residual cortical fibers (RCFs) and epithelial cells from the posterior and equatorial capsule in phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Methods

Hydropolish involved manual irrigation of the posterior and equatorial capsule after irrigation/aspiration, using a 27-G hydrodissection cannula. This prospective, consecutive, single surgeon controlled trial was conducted at a dedicated ophthalmic surgery center in Sydney, Australia, between December 20, 2006, and July 14, 2010. Single eyes of consecutive patients underwent cataract surgery without use of hydropolish (control group), while those on or after July 21, 2010, underwent hydropolish (intervention group). Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) up to 1 month postoperatively, surgical complications, and hydropolish time were documented.

Results

A total of 1531 eyes were included in this study (hydropolish n = 682; control n = 849). After adjusting for age, sex, and nuclear sclerosis grade, no significant difference was found between hydropolish and control groups when preoperative CDVA was compared against postoperative CDVA at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Hydropolish is a rapid and safe technique that can remove RCFs from the posterior and equatorial capsule in phacoemulsification cataract surgery. It does not compromise postoperative CDVA.
Long-Term (>8 Years) Evaluation of Progression in Patients with Low-Pressure Glaucoma
Authors: Erdem Elif , Williams Alice , Kuchar Sarah Driscoll , Waisbourd Michael , Spaeth George L.
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To describe the long-term clinical course of patients with low-pressure glaucoma (LPG) and to assess the risk factors for disease progression.

Methods

The Wills Eye Glaucoma Research Center retrospectively reviewed the charts of LPG patients with documented follow-up of >8 years between 2000 and 2013. Medical records were evaluated for systemic diseases, family history of glaucoma, best-corrected visual acuity, refractive error, treatments, central corneal thickness (CCT), intraocular pressure (IOP), IOP change after pupil dilation, optic disc evaluation, visual field (VF) mean deviation (MD), VF grading, and time to progression. Progression was determined when both disc and VF appeared to have worsened.

Results

From 850 charts classified as LPG between 2000 and 2013, 49 eyes of 49 patients were included in our analysis. The mean (± SD) follow-up time was 9.3 (± 1.9) years. Glaucoma progressed in 25 eyes and remained stable in 24 eyes over the follow-up period. Eyes with progression had higher peak IOP (p = 0.043). There was a trend towards progression in patients with thinner CCT (p = 0.085) and disc hemorrhage (p = 0.098). Estimated annual change in MD was −0.57 dB in the progressing group and −0.10 dB in the stable group (p<0.0001).

Conclusions

Nearly half of the patients with LPG showed glaucoma progression despite treatment after >8 years. High peak IOP was a significant risk factor for progression. Identifying patients at risk may warrant closer follow-up and more aggressive treatment in order to preserve visual function in patients with LPG.
Detailed Inspection of Metal Implants
Authors: Hothi Harry S. , Berber Reshid , Whittaker Robert K. , Bills Paul J. , Skinner John A. , Hart Alister J.
Published: May 2015

Detailed visual inspection of metal hips is the first step in retrieval analysis. In this study a systematic visual inspection protocol was developed to quantify bearing surface changes and their associations with material loss was investigated. Simple and multiple linear regression models found that moderate surface scratching, discolouration, haziness and the size of visible wear scars were all significantly associated with material loss (R2 = 5%-73%, p<0.05). Visual inspection is not a substitute for measurement of material loss but an understanding of bearing surface changes may offer unique clues as to the mechanisms of failure of retrieved hips.
Osteoclastogenesis-Related Cytokines and Peri-Prosthetic Osteolysis in Revision Metal-On-Metal Total Hip Replacements
Authors: Eastwood Sarah E. , John Alun , Jones Stephen A. , Hodgson Helen , Mason Deborah , Waddington Rachel , Wei Xiaoqing
Published: May 2015

Purpose

Peri-prosthetic osteolysis is a major cause for revision hip arthroplasty; various cytokines including those in the osteoclastogenesis pathway have been identified as potentially key in the osteolysis process. Adverse reactions to metal debris in metal-on-metal total hip replacements have led to an increase in revision procedures. This study examines the levels of osteoclastogenesis-related cytokines in serum and synovial fluid samples obtained from patients at the time of revision metal-on-metal total hip replacement and compares between patients with and without radiographic evidence of peri-prosthetic osteolysis.

Methods

Sandwich ELISA techniques were used to detect IL-6, IL-18, M-CSF, sRANKL and OPG in the samples. Results were analysed with linear regression, Fisher's tests and t-tests; p<0.05 considered significant. Samples from 36 patients (18 with osteolysis, 18 without osteolysis) were analysed.

Results

There was wide variation in the detectable levels of cytokines. No significant differences were found between patients with and without osteolysis in mean synovial fluid levels of IL-6 (p = 0.863), IL-18 (p = 0.324), M-CSF (p = 0.508), sRANKL (p = 0.884), OPG (p = 0.776) or mean serum levels of OPG (p = 0.993) or sRANKL (p = 0.565) (insufficient detection of IL-6, IL-18 or M-CSF in serum samples). A correlation was found between synovial fluid levels of IL-6 and OPG in patients without osteolysis (r2 = 0.618, p<0.001) but not with osteolysis (r2 = 0.0004).

Conclusions

These results indicate that the process of peri-prosthetic osteolysis is complex and multifactorial; there may also be an influence of metallosis. Further research is needed to increase understanding of peri-prosthetic osteolysis and influence clinical practice.
The Prevalence of Femoroacetabular Impingement in Radiographs of Asymptomatic Subjects: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Diesel Cristiano Valter , Ribeiro Tiango Aguiar , Scheidt Rodrigo Benedet , de Souza Macedo Carlos Alberto , Galia Carlos Roberto
Published: May 2015

Background

There is a lack of uniformity in the diagnostic criteria for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), and few studies discuss the prevalence of radiographic changes in asymptomatic individuals. These factors make it difficult to establish a natural history of this disease. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of radiographic signs of CAM and Pincer FAI in an asymptomatic population.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed from July 2013 to December 2013. A total of 185 subjects were analysed. Inclusion criteria: no history of hip pain or orthopedic disease; and being 20-60 years old. Exclusion criteria: athletically active; or patients who would not allow acquisition of appropriate radiographs for analysis. Radiographs were obtained in anteroposterior and Dünn 45° view to access: alpha angle (AA), triangular index (TI), crossover sign (CS), lateral-centre edge (LCE) angle and acetabular index (AI).

Results

Median age was 34 years (27-49.5) and FAI was present in 53% of all subjects. 32.44% (60) was the overall CAM-type prevalence and 42.7% (79) the overall Pincer-type prevalence. Only 2 subjects presented the 3 overcoverage signs (AI, LCE and CS). An association was noted between the presence of AI <0° and the LCE >40° (p = 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study established a higher prevalence of radiographic markers of FAI in an asymptomatic population.
Therapeutic Potential of Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Mice with Acute Hepatic Failure
Authors: Feng Ting , Zhang Jun , Zeng Guifang , Zhou Rong , Tang Xiaohong , Cui Chang , Li Yongyong , Wang Hongwei , Li Tao , Zhu Weimin , Yu Zebo
Published: May 2015

Backround/Objective

Mesenchymal stem cells are probably one of the most promising alternatives for liver regeneration and repair. We present data supporting the ability of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) to generate hepatic elements and discuss the best transplantation pathway.

Methods

AHF mice were given hUCMSCs through tail-vein injection or into the liver lobes. Blood serum and liver tissues were collected to analyze the improvement of liver function and histological repair 24 h after hUCMSC administration. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the expression of human hepatocyte-specific markers in liver tissues.

Results

The results showed significant statistical differences in liver function after transplantation (P<.05). Real-time PCR and immunochemistry results demonstrated that the expression of hepatocyte-specific markers such as CK18 and AFP were obviously increased in the treatment groups through both transplantation pathways. Our data indicate that hUCMSCs are one of the stem cell candidates for liver repair because hUCMSCs can be easily and readily isolated and differentiated into hepatocytes both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, tail-vein injection of hUCMSCs has a similar therapeutic efficacy but is more convenient compared to liver lobe injection.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the potential therapeutic value of hUCMSCs and show that cell transplantation through a peripheral vein is a safe and effective way to treat AHF mice. Furthermore, this method might mediate repair in patients with liver damage or disease in future clinical therapy.