bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of the Parental Support on Risk Factors in the Process of Gender Affirmation of Transgender and Gender Diverse People
Authors: Seibel Bruna L. , de Brito Silva Bruno , Fontanari Anna M. V. , Catelan Ramiro F. , Bercht Ana M. , Stucky Juliana L. , DeSousa Diogo A. , Cerqueira-Santos Elder , Nardi Henrique C. , Koller Silvia H. , Costa Angelo B.
Published: March 2018

Research involving transgender and gender diverse people (TGD) increased in the last years, mostly concerning healthcare associated to this population. Few studies dedicated their analysis to the impact of parental support on transgender people, even though this is an important aspect in creating a safe environment on which these individuals can build their identity. In addition, the link between family support, TGD identity and homelessness is not completely established. Thus, due to the specificities of the family context of TGD individuals, the aim of this study is to investigate the association between family support and TGD in different moments of the process of gender affirmation. In addition, this study also aims to explore the relationship between a lack of social support and low self-esteem, home abandonment, and dwelling in the street. The survey was designed based on the TransPULSE project and was made available in electronic format. The sample was constituted of 423 TGD residents in two Brazilian states. A Structural Equation Model analysis suggested that the impact of gender affirmation status on homelessness was mediated by parental support, through self-esteem, and the need to move from home. The association between the status of the gender affirmation procedures, family support and self-esteem was significant and indicated that the further TGD individuals advanced in gender affirmation, the more self-esteem and family support they would have. The association between family support and self-esteem indicated that family support was associated with higher self-esteem. Low family support was associated with the willingness to move from home due to one’s TGD status and there was also a significant correlation between low self-esteem and the willingness to move from home due to one’s TGD status. Finally, homelessness was associated with the willingness to move with a large effect size. Limitations include the sample that was constituted by individuals with Internet access and who had more contact with TGD communities. The findings indicate directions for interventions involving TGD people and their families, considering the parental relationship as a critical variable to improve TGD quality of life in the process of gender affirmation.
On Hierarchical Text Language-Identification Algorithms
Authors: Hasimu Maimaitiyiming , Silamu Wushour
Published: March 2018

Text on the Internet is written in different languages and scripts that can be divided into different language groups. Most of the errors in language identification occur with similar languages. To improve the performance of short-text language identification, we propose four different levels of hierarchical language identification methods and conducted comparative tests in this paper. The efficiency of the algorithms was evaluated on sentences from 97 languages, and its macro-averaged F1-score reached in four-stage language identification was 0.9799. The experimental results verified that, after script identification, language group identification and similar language group identification, the performance of the language identification algorithm improved with each stage. Notably, the language identification accuracy between similar languages improved substantially. We also investigated how foreign content in a language affects language identification.
A Pump-Controlled Circuit for Single-Rod Cylinders that Incorporates Limited Throttling Compensating Valves
Authors: Imam Ahmed , Rafiq Moosa , Jalayeri Ehsan , Sepehri Nariman
Published: March 2018

Valve-controlled hydraulic actuation systems are favored in many applications due to their fast response, high power-to-weight ratio, and stability under variable working conditions. Efficiency, however, is the main disadvantage of these systems. Pump-controlled hydraulic actuations, on the other hand, eliminate energy losses in throttling valves and require less cooling. Furthermore, they inherently hold the ability to recover energy from assistive loads. Pump-controlled circuits for double-rod cylinders are well developed and are implemented in many industrial applications, including aviation. However, pump-controlled circuits for single-rod cylinders usually experience performance issues during specific modes of operation. In this paper, a new circuit using two valves to compensate for the differential flow of single-rod actuators is proposed. The compensating valves provide limited throttling over the differential flow only in critical operating regions to alleviate unwanted velocity oscillations. They have a minimum throttling effect in all other operating regions to preserve the efficiency. The new circuit has been experimentally evaluated. Its performance has also been compared with three other previously proposed circuits. The proposed circuit displays an improved performance, besides being capable of energy regeneration.
A New Wind Turbine Generating System Model for Balanced and Unbalanced Distribution Systems Load Flow Analysis
Authors: Koksoy Ahmet , Ozturk Onur , Balci Murat , Hocaoglu Mehmet
Published: March 2018

Wind turbine generating systems (WTGSs), which are conventionally connected to high voltage transmission networks, have frequently been employed as distributed generation units in today’s distribution networks. In practice, the distribution networks always have unbalanced bus voltages and line currents due to uneven distribution of single or double phase loads over three phases and asymmetry of the lines, etc. Accordingly, in this study, for the load flow analysis of the distribution networks, Conventional Fixed speed Induction Generator (CFIG) based WTGS, one of the most widely used WTGS types, is modelled under unbalanced voltage conditions. The Developed model has active and reactive power expressions in terms of induction machine impedance parameters, terminal voltages and input power. The validity of the Developed model is confirmed with the experimental results obtained in a test system. The results of the slip calculation based phase-domain model (SCP Model), which was previously proposed in the literature for CFIG based WTGSs under unbalanced voltages, are also given for the comparison. Finally, the Developed model and the SCP model are implemented in the load flow analysis of the IEEE 34 bus test system with the CFIG based WTGSs and unbalanced loads. Thus, it is clearly pointed out that the results of the load flow analysis implemented with both models are very close to each other, and the Developed model is computationally more efficient than the SCP model.
A Short Update on the Advantages, Applications and Limitations of Hyperspectral and Chemical Imaging in Food Authentication
Authors: Roberts Jessica , Power Aoife , Chapman James , Chandra Shaneel , Cozzolino Daniel
Published: March 2018

Around the world, the food industry needs to maintain high quality and safety standards in order to satisfy consumers demand for healthy foods and to trace the origin of raw materials and products that are used during food manufacture. These objectives can be achieved by applying analytical methods and techniques that are able to provide information about composition, structure, physicochemical properties, and sensory characteristics of foods. Modern techniques and methods based on spectroscopy (near infrared (NIR), mid infrared (MIR), Raman) are highly desirable due to their low cost and easy to implement, and often requiring minimal sample preparation. This paper reviews some of the advantages and recent applications of hyperspectral and chemical imaging to discriminate and authenticate foods.
Association between Resistin Gene Polymorphisms and Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Banihani Saleem , Abu-Alia Khawla , Khabour Omar , Alzoubi Karem
Published: March 2018

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, relapsing, and inflammatory skin disorder. It is characterized by an inappropriate skin barrier function, allergen sensitization, and recurrent skin infections. Resistin is an adipokine expressed mainly in macrophages and monocytes; it has a role in the inflammatory process and is associated with multiple inflammatory human diseases; however, only few studies linked resistin to atopic dermatitis. This study tested the association between G>A (rs3745367) and C>T (rs3219177) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the RETN gene with atopic dermatitis. In addition, it explored the relationship between serum resistin protein and atopic dermatitis. To achieve objectives of this study, 162 atopic dermatitis patients and 161 healthy participants were recruited in the study. A significant association was detected between rs3745367 and atopic dermatitis with age and gender specificity (p < 0.05), while no significant association between rs3219177 and atopic dermatitis was found (p > 0.05). For the serum resistin levels, a significant decrease was indicated in atopic dermatitis patients compared to healthy subjects (p < 0.05). In conclusion, rs3745367 may play a gender and age-specific role in atopic dermatitis. In addition, the significant decrease in the resistin protein level confirmed this association.
The Social, Educational, and Market Scenario for nZEB in Europe
Authors: Topriska Evangelia , Kolokotroni Maria , Melandri Daniela , McGuiness Simon , Ceclan Andrei , Christoforidis Georgios , Fazio Vittoria , Hadjipanayi Maria , Hendrick Patrick , Kacarska Marija , Peñalvo López Elisa , Petersen Kaj , Steinbrecher Jutta
Published: March 2018

Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB) are a significant part of the energy efficiency strategy of the European Union. As buildings represent approximately 40% of the final energy use in Europe, the reduction of their energy demand is key for a sustainable future. This paper takes a qualitative approach and presents data about professional and market barriers, as well as the educational market in relation to the implementation of nZEB policies for new and retrofit buildings in 11 European countries. Different levels of policy enactments and market penetration are reported and are generally found to be more advanced in western and central European countries. Furthermore, gender equality is examined in the building sector in relation to nZEB and presents significant gaps, with a more balanced situation reported in southern Europe. The accreditation and targeted education of nZEB experts is still almost non-existent in the examined countries, and the need for training of building professionals is highlighted as a critical missing component of current policy. This research aims to be the first step towards the creation of educational material and programmes as a mean to accelerate the transition to nZEB.
Exciton Spectroscopy of Spatially Separated Electrons and Holes in the Dielectric Quantum Dots
Authors: Pokutnyi Sergey , Kulchin Yuri , Dzyuba Vladimir , Hayrapetyan David
Published: March 2018

It is shown that in the potential energy of an exciton of spatially separated electrons and holes (hole moves in the amount of quantum dots (QDs), and the electron is localized on a spherical surface section (QD—dielectric matrix)) taking into account centrifugal energy gives rise band of the quasi-stationary surface exciton states that with the increase of the radius of QD becomes stationary state. The mechanisms of formation of the spectra of interband and intraband absorption (emission) of light in nanosystems containing aluminum oxide QDs, placed in the matrix of vacuum oil, are presented. It is shown that the electron transitions in the area of the surface exciton states cause significant absorption in the visible and near infrared wavelengths, and cause the experimentally observed significant blurring of the absorption edge.
Remythologizing Mystery in Mathematics: Teaching for Open Landscapes versus Concealment
Authors: Andersson Annica , Wagner David
Published: March 2018

Mathematics is full of mystery. We illuminate the myth to expose two conflicting senses of mystery at work in mathematics and its education practices. There is a sense of boundlessness with mathematics—the idea that we never fully know. There is also a practice of concealment, in which an answer or solution is known by special people who may support or provide a scaffold for students’ navigation to the “special” knowledge, but may also challenge their access to it by erecting barriers and boundaries. In remythologizing mystery, we identify that the valorization of mystery in mathematics is rooted in the wonder of exploring boundless landscapes and is used misleadingly to justify school mathematics with the other sense of mystery—uncovering the concealed.
Optimization and Model Validation of Operation Control Strategies for a Novel Dual-Motor Coupling-Propulsion Pure Electric Vehicle
Authors: Hu Jianjun , Zheng Lingling , Jia Meixia , Zhang Yi , Pang Tao
Published: March 2018

The strict operational condition of driving motors for vehicles propels the development of more complicated configurations in pure electric vehicles (PEVs). Multi-power-source powertrain configurations are one of the efficient technologies to reduce the manufacturing difficulty of driving motors. However, most of the existing studies are predominantly focused on optimal designs of powertrains and power distribution between the engine and motor of hybrid electric vehicles, which are not appropriate for PEVs. This paper proposes a novel dual-motor coupling-propulsion powertrain system that improves the dynamic and economic performance of the powertrain system in PEVs. The proposed powertrain system can realize both the single-motor driving mode and dual-motor coupling driving mode. The driving modes are divided and a power distribution strategy for the different driving modes based on an optimal system efficiency rule is employed, which enhances the performance of the proposed system. Further, a mode-switching strategy that ensures driving comfort by preventing jerk during mode switching is incorporated into the system. The results of comparative evaluations that were conducted using a dual-motor electric vehicle model implemented in MATLAB/Simulink, indicate that the mileage and dynamic performance of the proposed powertrain system are significantly better than those of the traditional single-motor powertrain system.
Multi-Criteria Analysis of Electricity Generation Scenarios for Sustainable Energy Planning in Pakistan
Authors: Hussain Mirjat Nayyar , Uqaili Mohammad , Harijan Khanji , Mustafa Mohd , Rahman Md. , Khan M.
Published: March 2018

The now over a decade-long electricity crisis in Pakistan has adversely affected the socio-economic development of the country. This situation is mainly due to a lack of sustainable energy planning and policy formulation. In this context, energy models can be of great help but only a handful of such efforts have been undertaken in Pakistan. Two key shortcomings pertaining to energy models lead to their low utilization in developing countries. First, the models do not effectively make decisions, but rather provide a set of alternatives based on modeling parameters; and secondly, the complexity of these models is often poorly understood by the decision makers. As such, in this study, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) has been used for the sustainability assessment of energy modeling results for long-term electricity planning. The four scenario alternatives developed in the energy modeling effort, Reference (REF), Renewable Energy Technologies (RET), Clean Coal Maximum (CCM) and Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC), have been ranked using the Expert Choice® tool based on the AHP methodology. The AHP decision support framework of this study revealed the EEC scenario as the most favorable electricity generation scenario followed by the REF, RET and CCM scenarios. Besides that, this study proposes policy recommendations to undertake integrated energy modeling and decision analysis for sustainable energy planning in Pakistan.
Flexible Biogas in Future Energy Systems—Sleeping Beauty for a Cheaper Power Generation
Authors: Lauer Markus , Thrän Daniela
Published: March 2018

The increasing proportion of intermittent renewable energies asks for further technologies for balancing demand and supply in the energy system. In contrast to other countries, Germany is characterized by a high installed capacity of dispatchable biogas plants. For this paper, we analyzed the total system costs varying biogas extension paths and modes of operation for the period of 2016–2035 by using a non-linear optimization model. We took variable costs of existing conventional power plants, as well as variable costs and capital investments in gas turbines, Li-ion batteries, and pumped-storage plants into account. Without the consideration of the costs for biogas plants, an increasing proportion of biogas plants, compared to their phase out, reduces the total system costs. Furthermore, their flexible power generation should be as flexible as possible. The lowest total system costs were calculated in an extension path with the highest rate of construction of new biogas plants. However, the highest marginal utility was assessed by a medium proportion of flexible biogas plants. In conclusion, biogas plants can be a cost-effective option to integrate intermittent renewable energies into the electricity system. The optimal extension path of biogas plants depends on the future installed capacities of conventional and renewable energies.
Baduanjin Exercise for Stroke Rehabilitation: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zou Liye , Wang Chaoyi , Chen Xiaoan , Wang Huiru
Published: March 2018

Objective: The purpose of this review was to objectively evaluate the effects of Baduanjin exercise on rehabilitative outcomes in stroke patients. Methods: Both Chinese and English electronic databases were searched for potentially relevant trials. Two review authors independently screened eligible trials against the inclusion criteria, extracted data, and assessed the methodological quality by using the revised PEDro scale. Meta-analysis was only performed for balance function. Results: In total, there were eight randomized controlled trials selected in this systematic review. The aggregated result of four trials has shown a significant benefit in favor of Baduanjin on balance function (Hedges’ g = 2.39, 95% CI 2.14 to 2.65, p < 0.001, I2 = 61.54). Additionally, Baduanjin exercise effectively improved sensorimotor function of lower extremities and ability of daily activities as well as reduced depressive level, leading to improved quality of life. Conclusion: Baduanjin exercise as an adjunctive and safe method may be conducive to help stroke patients achieve the best possible short-term outcome and should be integrated with mainstream rehabilitation programs. More rigorous randomized controlled trials with long-term intervention periods among a large sample size of stroke patients are needed to draw a firm conclusion regarding the rehabilitative effects for this population.
Characterization of Fine Particulate Matter and Associated Health Burden in Nanjing
Authors: Nie Dongyang , Chen Mindong , Wu Yun , Ge Xinlei , Hu Jianlin , Zhang Kai , Ge Pengxiang
Published: March 2018

Particulate matter (PM) air pollution has become a serious environmental problem in Nanjing and poses great health risks to local residents. In this study, characteristics of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) over Nanjing were analyzed using hourly and daily averaged PM2.5 concentrations and meteorological parameters collected from nine national monitoring sites during the period of March 2014 to February 2017. Then, the integrated exposure-response (IER) model was applied to assess premature mortality, years of life lost (YLL) attributable to PM2.5, and mortality benefits due to PM2.5 reductions. The concentrations of PM2.5 varied among hours, seasons and years, which can be explained by differences in emission sources, secondary formations and meteorological conditions. The decreased ratio of PM2.5 to CO suggested that secondary contributions decreased while the relative contributions of vehicle exhaust increased from increased CO data. According to the values of attributable fractions (AF), stroke was the major cause of death, followed by ischemic heart disease (IHD), lung cancer (LC) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The estimated total deaths in Nanjing due to PM2.5 were 12,055 and 10,771, leading to 98,802 and 87,647 years of life lost in 2014 and 2015, respectively. The elderly and males had higher health risks than youngsters and females. When the PM2.5 concentrations meet the World Health Organization (WHO) Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) of 10 μg/m3, 84% of the premature deaths would be avoided, indicating that the Nanjing government needs to adopt more stringent measure to reduce PM pollution and enhance the health benefits.
Concentration and Risk Evaluation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Urban Soil in the Typical Semi-Arid City of Xi’an in Northwest China
Authors: Wang Lijun , Zhang Shengwei , Wang Li , Zhang Wenjuan , Shi Xingmin , Lu Xinwei , Li Xiaoping , Li Xiaoyun
Published: March 2018

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants, presenting potential threats to the ecological environment and human health. Sixty-two urban soil samples were collected in the typical semi-arid city of Xi’an in Northwest China. They were analyzed for concentration, pollution, and ecological and health risk of sixteen U.S. Environmental Protection Agency priority PAHs. The total concentrations of the sixteen PAHs (Σ16PAHs) in the urban soil ranged from 390.6 to 10,652.8 µg/kg with an average of 2052.6 µg/kg. The concentrations of some individual PAHs in the urban soil exceeded Dutch Target Values of Soil Quality and the Σ16PAHs represented heavy pollution. Pyrene and dibenz[a,h]anthracene had high ecological risk to aquatic/soil organisms, while other individual PAHs showed low ecological risk. The total ecological risk of PAHs to aquatic/soil organisms is classified as moderate. Toxic equivalency quantities (TEQs) of the sixteen PAHs varied between 21.16 and 1625.78 µg/kg, with an average of 423.86 µg/kg, indicating a relatively high toxicity potential. Ingestion and dermal adsorption of soil dust were major pathways of human exposure to PAHs from urban soil. Incremental lifetime cancer risks (ILCRs) of human exposure to PAHs were 2.86 × 10−5 for children and 2.53 × 10−5 for adults, suggesting that the cancer risk of human exposure to PAHs from urban soil is acceptable.
Regulated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Mediated Colon Cancer Therapy Assessed by Reporter Gene Based Optical Imaging
Authors: Kalimuthu Senthilkumar , Zhu Liya , Oh Ji , Lee Ho , Gangadaran Prakash , Rajendran Ramya , Baek Se , Jeon Yong , Jeong Shin , Lee Sang-Woo , Lee Jaetae , Ahn Byeong-Cheol
Published: March 2018

Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer in both men and women and the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths. Suicide gene-based therapy with suicide gene-transduced mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is a promising therapeutic strategy. A tetracycline-controlled Tet-On inducible system used to regulate gene expression may be a useful tool for gene-based therapies. The aim of this study was to develop therapeutic MSCs with a suicide gene that is induced by an artificial stimulus, to validate therapeutic gene expression, and to monitor the MSC therapy for colon cancer using optical molecular imaging. For our study, we designed the Tet-On system using a retroviral vector and developed a response plasmid RetroX-TRE (tetracycline response element) expressing a mutant form of herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV1-sr39TK) with dual reporters (eGFP-Fluc2). Bone marrow-derived MSCs were transduced using a RetroX-Tet3G (Clontech, CA, USA) regulatory plasmid and RetroX-TRE-HSV1-sr39TK-eGFP-IRES-Fluc2, for a system with a Tet-On (MSC-Tet-TK/Fluc2 or MSC-Tet-TK) or without a Tet-On (MSC-TK/Fluc2 or MSC-TK) function. Suicide gene engineered MSCs were co-cultured with colon cancer cells (CT26/Rluc) in the presence of the prodrug ganciclovir (GCV) after stimulation with or without doxycycline (DOX). Treatment efficiency was monitored by assessing Rluc (CT26/Rluc) and Fluc (MSC-Tet-TK and MSC-TK) activity using optical imaging. The bystander effect of therapeutic MSCs was confirmed in CT26/Rluc cells after GCV treatment. Rluc activity in CT26/Rluc cells decreased significantly with GCV treatment of DOX(+) cells (p < 0.05 and 0.01) whereas no significant changes were observed in DOX(−) cells. In addition, Fluc activity in also decreased significantly with DOX(+) MSC-Tet-TK cells, but no signal was observed in DOX(−) cells. In addition, an MSC-TK bystander effect was also confirmed. We assessed therapy with this system in a colon cancer xenograft model (CT26/Rluc). We successfully transduced cells and developed a Tet-On system with the suicide gene HSV1-sr39TK. Our results confirmed the therapeutic efficiency of a suicide gene with the Tet-On system for colon cancer. In addition, our results provide an innovative therapeutic approach using the Tet-On system to eradicate tumors by administration of MSC-Tet-TK cells with DOX and GCV.
Role of Macrophages in Brain Tumor Growth and Progression
Authors: Guadagno Elia , Presta Ivan , Maisano Domenico , Donato Annalidia , Pirrone Caterina , Cardillo Gabriella , Corrado Simona , Mignogna Chiara , Mancuso Teresa , Donato Giuseppe , Del Basso De Caro Marialaura , Malara Natalia
Published: March 2018

The role of macrophages in the growth and the progression of tumors has been extensively studied in recent years. A large body of data demonstrates that macrophage polarization plays an essential role in the growth and progression of brain tumors, such as gliomas, meningiomas, and medulloblastomas. The brain neoplasm cells have the ability to influence the polarization state of the tumor associated macrophages. In turn, innate immunity cells have a decisive role through regulation of the acquired immune response, but also through humoral cross-talking with cancer cells in the tumor microenvironment. Neoangiogenesis, which is an essential element in glial tumor progression, is even regulated by the tumor associated macrophages, whose activity is linked to other factors, such as hypoxia. In addition, macrophages play a decisive role in establishing the entry into the bloodstream of cancer cells. As is well known, the latter phenomenon is also present in brain tumors, even if they only rarely metastasize. Looking ahead in the future, we can imagine that characterizing the relationships between tumor and tumor associated macrophage, as well as the study of circulating tumor cells, could give us useful tools in prognostic evaluation and therapy. More generally, the study of innate immunity in brain tumors can boost the development of new forms of immunotherapy.
MDM2-p53 Interactions in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma: What Is the Role of Nutlins and New Therapeutic Options?
Authors: Azer Samy
Published: March 2018

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fifth most common cancer and is associated with poor prognosis worldwide. The molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of HCC have been an area of continuing interest, and recent studies using next generation sequencing (NGS) have revealed much regarding previously unsettled issues. Molecular studies using HCC samples have been mainly targeted with the aim to identify the fundamental mechanisms contributing to HCC and identify more effective treatments. In response to cellular stresses (e.g., DNA damage or oncogenes), activated p53 elicits appropriate responses that aim at DNA repair, genetic stability, cell cycle arrest, and the deletion of DNA-damaged cells. On the other hand, the murine double minute 2 (MDM2) oncogene protein is an important cellular antagonist of p53. MDM2 negatively regulates p53 activity through the induction of p53 protein degradation. However, current research has shown that the mechanisms underlying MDM2-p53 interactions are more complex than previously thought. Microarray data have added new insight into the transcription changes in HCC. Recently, Nutlin-3 has shown potency against p53-MDM2 binding and the enhancement of p53 stabilization as well as an increment of p53 cellular accumulation with potential therapeutic effects. This review outlines the molecular mechanisms involved in the p53-MDM2 pathways, the biological factors influencing these pathways, and their roles in the pathogenesis of HCC. It also discusses the action of Nutlin-3 treatment in inducing growth arrest in HCC and elaborates on future directions in research in this area. More research on the biology of p53-MDM2 interactions may offer a better understanding of these mechanisms and discover new biomarkers, sensitive prognostic indicators as well as new therapeutic interventions in HCC.
FEM Modeling of In-Plane Stress Distribution in Thick Brittle Coatings/Films on Ductile Substrates Subjected to Tensile Stress to Determine Interfacial Strength
Authors: Wang Kaishi , Zhang Fangzhou , Bordia Rajendra
Published: March 2018

The ceramic-metal interface is present in various material structures and devices that are vulnerable to failures, like cracking, which are typically due to their incompatible properties, e.g., thermal expansion mismatch. In failure of these multilayer systems, interfacial shear strength is a good measure of the robustness of interfaces, especially for planar films. There is a widely-used shear lag model and method by Agrawal and Raj to analyse and measure the interfacial shear strength of thin brittle film on ductile substrates. The use of this classical model for a type of polymer derived ceramic coatings (thickness ~18 μm) on steel substrate leads to high values of interfacial shear strength. Here, we present finite element simulations for such a coating system when it is subjected to in-plane tension. Results show that the in-plane stresses in the coating are non-uniform, i.e., varying across the thickness of the film. Therefore, they do not meet one of the basic assumptions of the classical model: uniform in-plane stress. Furthermore, effects of three significant parameters, film thickness, crack spacing, and Young’s modulus, on the in-plane stress distribution have also been investigated. ‘Thickness-averaged In-plane Stress’ (TIS), a new failure criterion, is proposed for estimating the interfacial shear strength, which leads to a more realistic estimation of the tensile strength and interfacial shear strength of thick brittle films/coatings on ductile substrates.
Optical Third Harmonic Generation Using Nickel Nanostructure-Covered Microcube Structures
Authors: Ogata Yoichi , Vorobyev Anatoliy , Guo Chunlei
Published: March 2018

We investigated the optical third harmonic generation (THG) signal from nanostructure-covered microcubes on Ni. We found that the hierarchical structures greatly change the third-order optical nonlinearity of the metallic surface. While the symmetry and lightning rod (LR) effects on microstructures did not significantly influence the THG, the localized surface plasmon (LSP) effect on the nanostructures enhanced it. By removing the nanostructures on the hierarchical structures, THG intensity could be strongly suppressed. In the present paper, we also discuss the mechanism that enhances THG in nano/micro structures.
Hot Deformation Behavior and Processing Map of Mg-3Sn-2Ca-0.4Al-0.4Zn Alloy
Authors: Dharmendra Chalasani , Rao Kamineni , Suresh Kalidass , Hort Norbert
Published: March 2018

Among newly developed TX (Mg-Sn-Ca) alloys, TX32 alloy strikes a good balance between ductility, corrosion, and creep properties. This study reports the influence of aluminum and zinc additions (0.4 wt % each) to TX32 alloy on its strength and deformation behavior. Uniaxial compression tests were performed under various strain rates and temperature conditions in the ranges of 0.0003–10 s−1 and 300–500 °C, respectively. A processing map was developed for TXAZ3200 alloy, and it exhibits three domains that enable good hot workability in the ranges (1) 300–340 °C/0.0003–0.001 s−1; (2) 400–480 °C/0.01–1 s−1; and (3) 350–500 °C/0.0003–0.01 s−1. The occurrence of dynamic recrystallization in these domains was confirmed from the microstructural observations. The estimated apparent activation energy in Domains 2 and 3 (219 and 245 kJ/mole) is higher than the value of self-diffusion in magnesium. This is due to the formation of intermetallic phases in the matrix that generates back stress. The strength of TXAZ3200 alloy improved up to 150 °C as compared to TX32 alloy, suggesting solid solution strengthening due to Al and Zn. Also, the hot deformation behavior of TXAZ3200 alloy was compared in the form of processing maps with TX32, TX32-0.4Al, TX32-0.4Zn, and TX32-1Al-1Zn alloys.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of NiCuCrMoTiAlNb Nickel-Based Alloy
Authors: Jiang Shuyong , Sun Dong , Zhang Yanqiu , Yan Bingyao
Published: March 2018

As-cast NiCuCrMoTiAlNb nickel-based alloys were subjected to two-stage heat treatment, including solution treatment and subsequent aging treatment. Furthermore, the influence of heat treatment on microstructures and mechanical properties of NiCuCrMoTiAlNb nickel-based alloys was further investigated. The as-cast NiCuCrMoTiAlNb Ni-based alloys are able to experience large plastic deformation at room temperature, where nanocrystalline phases are induced. In the case of heat-treated NiCuCrMoTiAlNb nickel-based alloys, with increasing Nb content, plenty of Ni3(Al, Ti) precipitates (γ′ phases) are distributed in the γ matrix and they are able to become the obstacles to impede the movement of dislocations, which is responsible for increasing the yield strength of NiCuCrMoTiAlNb nickel-based alloys. Pile-up of dislocations in the vicinity of γ′ precipitates adversely influences plasticity of NiCuCrMoTiAlNb nickel-based alloys.
Paper-Based Sensor Chip for Heavy Metal Ion Detection by SWSV
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Sun Jizhou , Tong Jianhua , Guan Xin , Bian Chao , Xia Shanhong
Published: March 2018

Heavy metal ion pollution problems have had a terrible influence on human health and the environment. Therefore, the monitoring of heavy metal ions is of great practical significance. In this paper, an electrochemical three-electrode system was fabricated and integrated on nitrocellulose membrane (NC) by the use of magnetron sputtering technology, which exhibited a uniform arrangement of porous structure without further film modification. This paper-based sensor chip was used for Cu2+ detection by square-wave stripping voltammetry (SWSV). Within the ranges of 5~200 μg·L−1 and 200~1000 μg·L−1, it showed good linearity of 99.58% and 98.87%, respectively. The limit of detection was 2 μg·L−1. On the basis of satisfying the detection requirements (10 μg·L−1), the integrated sensor was small in size and inexpensive in cost. Zn2+, Cd2+, Pb2+ and Bi3+ were also detected by this paper-based sensor chip with good linearity.
Small Molecule Catalysts with Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Ney Yannick , Jawad Nasim Muhammad , Kharma Ammar , Youssef Lama , Jacob Claus
Published: March 2018

Catalysts are employed in many areas of research and development where they combine high efficiency with often astonishing selectivity for their respective substrates. In biology, biocatalysts are omnipresent. Enzymes facilitate highly controlled, sophisticated cellular processes, such as metabolic conversions, sensing and signalling, and are prominent targets in drug development. In contrast, the therapeutic use of catalysts per se is still rather limited. Recent research has shown that small molecule catalytic agents able to modulate the redox state of the target cell bear considerable promise, particularly in the context of inflammatory and infectious diseases, stroke, ageing and even cancer. Rather than being “active” on their own in a more traditional sense, such agents develop their activity by initiating, promoting, enhancing or redirecting reactions between biomolecules already present in the cell, and their activity therefore depends critically on the predisposition of the target cell itself. Redox catalysts, for instance, preferably target cells with a distinct sensitivity towards changes in an already disturbed redox balance and/or increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Indeed, certain transition metal, chalcogen and quinone agents may activate an antioxidant response in normal cells whilst at the same time triggering apoptosis in cancer cells with a different pre-existing “biochemical redox signature” and closer to the internal redox threshold. In pharmacy, catalysts therefore stand out as promising lead structures, as sensor/effector agents which are highly effective, fairly selective, active in catalytic, i.e., often nanomolar concentrations and also very flexible in their structural design.
Fabrication of Amine-Modified Magnetite-Electrochemically Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Sensitive Dopamine Determination
Authors: He Quanguo , Liu Jun , Liu Xiaopeng , Li Guangli , Chen Dongchu , Deng Peihong , Liang Jing
Published: March 2018

Amine-modified magnetite (NH2–Fe3O4)/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposite modified glassy carbon electrodes (NH2–Fe3O4/RGO/GCEs) were developed for the sensitive detection of dopamine (DA). The NH2-Fe3O4/RGO/GCEs were fabricated using a drop-casting method followed by an electrochemical reduction process. The surface morphologies, microstructure and chemical compositions of the NH2–Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs), reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets and NH2–Fe3O4/RGO nanocomposites were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The electrochemical behaviors of DA on the bare and modified GCEs were investigated in phosphate buffer solution (PBS) by cyclic voltammetry (CV). Compared with bare electrode and RGO/GCE, the oxidation peak current (ipa) on the NH2–Fe3O4/RGO/GCE increase significantly, owing to the synergistic effect between NH2–Fe3O4 NPs and RGO sheets. The oxidation peak currents (ipa) increase linearly with the concentrations of DA in the range of 1 × 10−8 mol/L – 1 × 10−7 mol/L, 1 × 10−7 mol/L – 1 × 10−6 mol/L and 1 × 10−6 mol/L – 1 × 10−5 mol/L. The detection limit is (4.0 ± 0.36) ×10−9 mol/L (S/N = 3). Moreover, the response peak currents of DA were hardly interfered with the coexistence of ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA). The proposed NH2–Fe3O4/RGO/GCE is successfully applied to the detection of dopamine hydrochloride injections with satisfactory results. Together with low cost, facile operation, good selectivity and high sensitivity, the NH2–Fe3O4/RGO/GCEs have tremendous prospects for the detection of DA in various real samples.
Engaging and Supporting a University Press Scholarly Community
Authors: Taylor Megan , Jensen Kathrine
Published: March 2018

In this paper we explore how the development of The University of Huddersfield Press, a publisher of open access scholarly journals and monographs, has enabled the sharing of research with a wider online audience. We situate the development of the Press within a wider research environment and growing community of New University Presses (NUPs) where there is an increasing demand for demonstrating research impact, which drives the need for improved analysis and reporting of impact data, a task that often falls within the remit of library and academic support services. We detail the benefits of the University Press Manager role in terms of ensuring professional service that delivers consistency and sustainability. We go on to outline the experiences of engaging with different online spaces and detail the extensive support for student authors. We argue that in order for the Press to support building a strong and engaged scholarly community and provide new spaces for emerging research, continued investment in both platform development and infrastructure is required.
Therapeutic Theodicy? Suffering, Struggle, and the Shift from the God’s-Eye View
Authors: Griffioen Amber
Published: March 2018

From a theoretical standpoint, the problem of human suffering can be understood as one formulation of the classical problem of evil, which calls into question the compatibility of the existence of a perfect God with the extent to which human beings suffer. Philosophical responses to this problem have traditionally been posed in the form of theodicies, or justifications of the divine. In this article, I argue that the theodical approach in analytic philosophy of religion exhibits both morally and epistemically harmful tendencies and that philosophers would do better to shift their perspective from the hypothetical “God’s-eye view” to the standpoint of those who actually suffer. By focusing less on defending the epistemic rationality of religious belief and more on the therapeutic effectiveness of particular imaginings of God with respect to suffering, we can recover, (re)construct, and/or (re)appropriate more virtuous approaches to the individual and collective struggle with the life of faith in the face of suffering.
Cable Robot Performance Evaluation by Wrench Exertion Capability
Authors: Boschetti Giovanni , Trevisani Alberto
Published: March 2018

Although cable driven robots are a type of parallel manipulators, the evaluation of their performances cannot be carried out using the performance indices already developed for parallel robots with rigid links. This is an obvious consequence of the peculiar features of flexible cables—a cable can only exert a tensile and limited force in the direction of the cable itself. A comprehensive performance evaluation can certainly be attained by computing the maximum force (or torque) that can be exerted by the cables on the moving platform along a specific (or any) direction within the whole workspace. This is the idea behind the index—called the Wrench Exertion Capability (WEC)—which can be employed to evaluate the performance of any cable robot topology and is characterized by an efficient and simple formulation based on linear programming. By significantly improving a preliminary computation method for the WEC, this paper proposes an ultimate formulation suitable for any cable robot topology. Several numerical investigations on planar and spatial cable robots are presented to give evidence of the WEC usefulness, comparisons with popular performance indices are also provided.
Electronic Detection of DNA Hybridization by Coupling Organic Field-Effect Transistor-Based Sensors and Hairpin-Shaped Probes
Authors: Napoli Corrado , Lai Stefano , Giannetti Ambra , Tombelli Sara , Baldini Francesco , Barbaro Massimo , Bonfiglio Annalisa
Published: March 2018

In this paper, the electronic transduction of DNA hybridization is presented by coupling organic charge-modulated field-effect transistors (OCMFETs) and hairpin-shaped probes. These probes have shown interesting properties in terms of sensitivity and selectivity in other kinds of assays, in the form of molecular beacons (MBs). Their integration with organic-transistor based sensors, never explored before, paves the way to a new class of low-cost, easy-to-use, and portable genetic sensors with enhanced performances. Thanks to the peculiar characteristics of the employed sensor, measurements can be performed at relatively high ionic strengths, thus optimizing the probes’ functionality without affecting the detection ability of the device. A complete electrical characterization of the sensor is reported, including calibration with different target concentrations in the measurement environment and selectivity evaluation. In particular, DNA hybridization detection for target concentration as low as 100 pM is demonstrated.
An Improved Positioning Method for Two Base Stations in AIS
Authors: Jiang Yi , Wu Jiani , Zhang Shufang
Published: March 2018

Resilient position, navigation, and timing (PNT) data is indispensable information in the field of e-navigation. An automatic identification system (AIS) based ranging mode (R-Mode) is put forward to develop a terrestrial backup system in order to overcome the vulnerability of the global navigation satellite system (GNSS). In general, at least three base stations are required in the traditional R-Mode positioning method. However, the geometric distribution of existing base stations is not considered for positioning, as AIS is a communication system. In some cases, a vessel can only receive signals from two base stations. In this paper, an improved position estimation method based on displacement correction is therefore proposed to solve this problem. Compared with the prior displacement correction position estimation (DCPE) method, the proposed method can improve positioning accuracy effectively by adopting a more precise motion model for the vessel, including an accelerated motion and a turning motion model. Moreover, the motion model is employed adaptively to correct the displacement of the vessel. Finally, the proposed method is verified and the performance is analyzed and compared by simulation. This study can extend the application region of AIS R-Mode.
Spatial Evolution of Producer Service Sectors and Its Influencing Factors in Cities: A Case Study of Hangzhou, China
Authors: Wu Yizhou , Fan Peilei , You Heyuan
Published: March 2018

Producer service industries are an important feature in the current development of a metropolis. Researchers from different countries are increasingly concerned about location changes and the motives of producer service sectors in cities. Given the rapid development of producer service sectors in developing countries, this study examines changes in the distribution of producer service sectors over the past decade and factors influencing them in a case study using the city of Hangzhou in China. Results show that Hangzhou’s producer service sector is still mainly concentrated in the central business district (CBD). However, a distinct trend of diffusion to suburban areas was observed, which formed several secondary clusters on the periphery of the city. Locations of the CBD, sub-centers, and professional clusters of producer service sectors established by the government are the most important factors that affect the spatial distribution of producer service sectors. The main influencing factors for the spatial evolution of producer service sectors are: (1) the high development cost and residential suburbanization of the central areas of the city promote the development of producer service sectors toward the periphery; (2) city planning has guided the clustering of producer service sectors on the city’s CBD and secondary city centers; (3) city renewal has provided personalized and diversified development space for producer service sectors; (4) incentive policies introduced by the government, such as rentals, and taxes have enhanced the orderly aggregation of producer service sectors.