bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon storage in China’s terrestrial ecosystems: A synthesis
Authors: Xu Li , Yu Guirui , He Nianpeng , Wang Qiufeng , Gao Yang , Wen Ding , Li Shenggong , Niu Shuli , Ge Jianping
Published: February 2018

It is important to accurately estimate terrestrial ecosystem carbon (C) storage. However, the spatial patterns of C storage and the driving factors remain unclear, owing to lack of data. Here, we collected data from literature published between 2004 and 2014 on C storage in China’s terrestrial ecosystems, to explore variation in C storage across different ecosystems and evaluate factors that influence them. We estimated that total C storage was 99.15 ± 8.71 PgC, with 14.60 ± 3.24 PgC in vegetation C (Veg-C) and 84.55 ± 8.09 PgC in soil organic C (SOC) storage. Furthermore, C storage in forest, grassland, wetland, shrub, and cropland ecosystems (excluding vegetation) was 34.08 ± 5.43, 25.69 ± 4.71, 3.62 ± 0.80, 7.42 ± 1.92, and 15.17 ± 2.20 PgC, respectively. In addition to soil nutrients and texture, climate was the main factor regulating the spatial patterns of C storage. Climate influenced the spatial patterns of Veg-C and SOC density via different approaches, Veg-C was mainly positively influenced by mean annual precipitation (MAP), whereas SOC was negatively dependent on mean annual temperature (MAT). This systematic estimate of C storage in China provides new insights about how climate constrains C sequestration, demonstrating the contrasting effects of MAP and MAT on Veg-C and SOC; thus, these parameters should be incorporated into future land management and C sequestration strategies.
CD44 variant inhibits insulin secretion in pancreatic β cells by attenuating LAT1-mediated amino acid uptake
Authors: Kobayashi Nana , Okazaki Shogo , Sampetrean Oltea , Irie Junichiro , Itoh Hiroshi , Saya Hideyuki
Published: February 2018

CD44 variant (CD44v) contributes to cancer stemness by stabilizing the xCT subunit of system xc(−) and thereby promoting its glutamate-cystine antiporter activity. CD44 has also been implicated in autoimmune insulitis and inflammation in diabetic islets, but whether CD44v regulates insulin secretion has remained unclear. Here we show that CD44v inhibits insulin secretion by attenuating amino acid transport mediated by the L-type amino acid transporter LAT1. CD44v expression level was inversely related to insulin content in islets of normal and diabetic model mice. Knockdown of CD44 increased insulin secretion, the intracellular insulin level, and the transport of neutral amino acids mediated by LAT1 in Min6 cells. Attenuation of the uptake of neutral amino acids with a LAT inhibitor reduced insulin secretion and insulin content in Min6 cells, whereas overexpression of LAT1 increased insulin secretion. Moreover, inhibition of LAT1 prevented the increase in insulin secretion and content induced by CD44 depletion in Min6 cells. Our results thus implicate CD44v in the regulation of insulin secretion and reveal that amino acid transport is rate limiting for such secretion. They further suggest that amino acid transport mediated by LAT1 is a potential therapeutic target for diabetes.
Comparing the similarity and difference of three influenza surveillance systems in China
Authors: Yang Xiaoting , Liu Dongpeng , Wei Kongfu , Liu Xinfeng , Meng Lei , Yu Deshan , Li Hongyu , Li Baodi , He Jian , Hu Wenbiao
Published: February 2018

Three main surveillance systems (laboratory-confirmed, influenza-like illness (ILI) and nationwide Notifiable Infectious Diseases Reporting Information System (NIDRIS)) have been used for influenza surveillance in China. However, it is unclear which surveillance system is more reliable in developing influenza early warning system based on surveillance data. This study aims to evaluate the similarity and difference of the three surveillance systems and provide practical knowledge for improving the effectiveness of influenza surveillance. Weekly influenza data for the three systems were obtained from March 2010 to February 2015. Spearman correlation and time series seasonal decomposition were used to assess the relationship between the three surveillance systems and to explore seasonal patterns and characteristics of influenza epidemics in Gansu, China. Our results showed influenza epidemics appeared a single-peak around January in all three surveillance systems. Time series seasonal decomposition analysis demonstrated a similar seasonal pattern in the three systems, while long-term trends were observed to be different. Our research suggested that a combination of the NIDRIS together with ILI and laboratory-confirmed surveillance is an informative, comprehensive way to monitor influenza transmission in Gansu, China. These results will provide a useful information for developing influenza early warning systems based on influenza surveillance data.
Identification of novel PANDAR protein interaction partners involved in splicing regulation
Authors: Pospiech N. , Cibis H. , Dietrich L. , Müller F. , Bange T. , Hennig S.
Published: February 2018

Interactions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA) with proteins play important roles in the regulation of many cellular processes. PANDAR (Promotor of CDKN1AAntisense DNA damage Activated RNA) is a lncRNA that is transcribed in a p53-dependent manner from the CDKN1A promoter and is involved in the regulation of proliferation and senescence. Overexpression of PANDAR has been observed in several tumor species and correlated with a poor prognosis for patient survival rate. Depending on the cellular state, PANDAR is known to interact with proteins such as the nuclear transcription factor Y subunit A (NF-YA) and the scaffold attachment factor A (SAF-A). However, a comprehensive analysis of the PANDAR interactome was missing so far. Therefore, we applied peptide nucleic acid (PNA)-based pull-downs combined with quantitative mass spectrometry to identify new protein binding partners. We confirmed potential candidates like U2AF65 and PTBP1, known to be involved in RNA processing. Furthermore, we observed that overexpression of PANDAR leads to a reduced level of the short pro-apoptotic BCL-X splice variant (BCL-XS) which is regulated by PTBP1. Simultaneous overexpression of PTBP1 was able to rescue this effect. Overall, our data suggest a role for PANDAR in the regulation of splicing events via its interaction partner PTBP1.
Early Changes of Articular Cartilage and Subchondral Bone in The DMM Mouse Model of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Fang Hang , Huang Lisi , Welch Ian , Norley Chris , Holdsworth David W. , Beier Frank , Cai Daozhang
Published: February 2018

To examine the early changes of articular cartilage and subchondral bone in the DMM mouse model of osteoarthritis, mice were subjected to DMM or SHAM surgery and sacrificed at 2-, 5- and 10-week post-surgery. Catwalk gait analyses, Micro-Computed Tomography, Toluidine Blue, Picrosirius Red and Tartrate-Resistant Acid Phosphatase (TRAP) staining were used to investigate gait patterns, joint morphology, subchondral bone, cartilage, collagen organization and osteoclasts activity, respectively. Results showed OA progressed over 10-week time-course. Gait disparity occurred only at 10-week post-surgery. Osteophyte formed at 2-week post-surgery. BMDs of DMM showed no statistical differences comparing to SHAM at 2 weeks, but BV/TV is much higher in DMM mice. Increased BMD was clearly found at 5- and 10-week post-surgery in DMM mice. TRAP staining showed increased osteoclast activity at the site of osteophyte formation of DMM joints at 5- and 10-week time points. These results showed that subchondral bone turnover might occurred earlier than 2 weeks in this mouse DMM model. Gait disparity only occurred at later stage of OA in DMM mice. Notably, patella dislocation could occur in some of the DMM mice and cause a different pattern of OA in affected knee.
Ultrahigh Oxygen Reduction Reaction Electrocatalytic Activity and Stability over Hierarchical Nanoporous N-doped Carbon
Authors: Li Zeyu , Gao Qiuming , Qian Weiwei , Tian Weiqian , Zhang Hang , Zhang Qiang , Liu Zhengping
Published: February 2018

Hierarchical nanoporous N-doped carbon ZNC-1000 was prepared by facile pyrolysis of well-designed nanosized ZIF-8 precursor with optimized reaction temperature and time. It possesses large surface areas leading to sufficient exposed electrochemical active sites. Meanwhile, its moderate graphitization degree and suitable nanosized hierarchical porosity distributions would lead to the sufficient interaction between O2 and the electrocatalyst surface which would benefit the transports of electrons and the electrolyte ions for ORR. As an electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction, the ZNC-1000 presents a better catalytic property than the commercial Pt/C with 6/1 mV positive shifts for onset/half-wave potentials and 1.567 mA cm−2 larger for limiting current density respectively. The stability of ZNC-1000 is also much better than that of Pt/C with negative shifts of 0/−2 mV (vs 5/31 mV) for onset/half-wave potentials and 6.0% vs 29.2% loss of limiting current density after 5000 cycles of accelerated durability test, as well as the relative current of 87.5% vs 40.2% retention after 30,000 s continuous chronoamperometric operation.
Circadian clocks of both plants and pollinators influence flower seeking behavior of the pollinator hawkmoth Manduca sexta
Authors: Fenske Myles P. , Nguyen LeAnn P. , Horn Erin K. , Riffell Jeffrey A. , Imaizumi Takato
Published: February 2018

Most plant-pollinator interactions occur during specific periods during the day. To facilitate these interactions, many flowers are known to display their attractive qualities, such as scent emission and petal opening, in a daily rhythmic fashion. However, less is known about how the internal timing mechanisms (the circadian clocks) of plants and animals influence their daily interactions. We examine the role of the circadian clock in modulating the interaction betweenPetuniaand one of its pollinators, the hawkmothManduca sexta. We find that desynchronization of thePetuniacircadian clock affects moth visitation preference forPetuniaflowers. Similarly, moths with circadian time aligned to plants show stronger flower-foraging activities than moths that lack this alignment. Moth locomotor activity is circadian clock-regulated, although it is also strongly repressed by light. Moths show a time-dependent burst increase in flight activity during subjective night. In addition, moth antennal responsiveness to the floral scent compounds exhibits a 24-hour rhythm in both continuous light and dark conditions. This study highlights the importance of the circadian clocks in both plants and animals as a crucial factor in initiating specialized plant-pollinator relationships.
Identification and Documentation of Auricle Defects using Three-dimensional Optical Measurements
Authors: Zhan Guomin , Han Liya , Li Zhongwei , Liu Zilong , Fu Jiaqi , Zhong Kai
Published: February 2018

Auricle defects are important and common occurrences in forensic medicine. The accurate measurement and assessment of auricle defects is key to identifying and evaluating injury, and the currently available methods are known to be labor intensive and inaccurate. In this paper, we introduce an identification and documentation of auricle defects solution, which consists of an optical three-dimensional (3D) method and an effective algorithm to calculate the maximum projection area and identify auricle defects. In this study, three separate examiners measured 40 auricles of 20 adults using 3D optical measurement and two other commonly used methods to investigate the validity and representative reliability of 3D optical measurement for auricle defect identification. Based on the statistical analysis, the 3D measurement method is valid and showed a better reliability than the reference methods. We also present a representative auricle defect identification case using the proposed 3D optical measurement method. The study concludes that the optical 3D measurement method is a reliable and effective tool for auricle defect identification.
Highly selective, rapid-functioning and sensitive fluorescent test paper based on graphene quantum dots for on-line detection of metal ions
Authors: Wang Congxu , Sun Youyi , Jin Jianli , Xiong Zhiyuan , Li Dan , Yao Junru , Liu Yaqing
Published: February 2018

In this study, test papers based on N-doped graphene quantum dots and graphene quantum dots were designed and prepared.
Actinide-based MOFs: a middle ground in solution and solid-state structural motifs
Authors: Dolgopolova Ekaterina A. , Rice Allison M. , Shustova Natalia B.
Published: February 2018

In this review, we highlight how recent advances in the field of actinide structural chemistry of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) could be utilized towards investigations relative to efficient nuclear waste administration, driven by the interest towards development of novel actinide-containing architectures as well as concerns regarding environmental pollution and nuclear waste storage.
Transport and accumulation of plasma generated species in aqueous solution
Authors: Verlackt C. C. W. , Van Boxem W. , Bogaerts A.
Published: February 2018

The fluid dynamics and chemistry of plasma interaction with liquid water are investigated using 2D fluid simulations.
Substituent control of the ultrafast twisted intramolecular charge transfer rate in dimethylaminochalcone derivatives
Authors: Ghosh Rajib
Published: February 2018

The rate of TICT relaxation in dimethylaminochalcone derivatives is shown to be controlled by acceptor strength. Variation in the charge pulling capacity of the acceptor modifies the torsional barrier along the TICT coordinate in the S1 state, resulting in a tunable TICT relaxation rate.
Band engineering of multicomponent semiconductors: a general theoretical model on the anion group
Authors: Meng X. Y. , Liu D. Y. , Qin G. W.
Published: February 2018

Development of energy conversion semiconductor materials has attracted increasing interest over the past three decades, but most successful semiconductors are unary or binary, rather than multicomponent semiconductors (MCSCs).
Vapor-phase assisted hydrothermal carbon from sucrose and its application in acid catalysis
Authors: Zhong R. , Liao Y. , Shu R. , Ma L. , Sels B. F.
Published: February 2018

A novel and practical synthesis method for carbonaceous materials was proposed by the vapor-phase hydrothermal treatment of sucrose at a mild 200 °C temperature. The resultant mesoporous carbon after sulfonation yields as high as 94% of targeted product from sylvan condensation with furfural.
Facile synthesis of 1,4-diketonesviathree-component reactions of α-ketoaldehyde, 1,3-dicarbonyl compound, and a nucleophile in water
Authors: Yang Jian , Mei Fuming , Fu Shitao , Gu Yanlong
Published: February 2018

Three-component reactions of alkylglyoxals, 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, and a nucleophile were performed under aqueous and catalyst-free conditions, which produced 1,4-diketone scaffolds in a straightforward way.
Eco-friendly synthesis of SnSe nanoparticles: effect of reducing agents on the reactivity of a Se-precursor and phase formation of SnSe NPs
Authors: Pejjai Babu , Minnam Reddy Vasudeva Reddy , Seku Kondaiah , Pallavolu Mohan Reddy , Park Chinho
Published: February 2018

Tin monoselenide (SnSe) nanoparticles (NPs) have great potential to replace the conventional absorbers used in the fabrication of thin film solar cells.
Efficient synthesis of novel conjugated 1,3,4-oxadiazole–peptides
Authors: Golmohammadi Farhad , Balalaie Saeed , Hamdan Fatima , Maghari Shokoofeh
Published: February 2018

In this study, we developed an efficient approach for the synthesis of 2-amino-1,3,4-oxadiazoles that are bioisosteres of the amide functional group. The synthesized oxadiazoles were conjugated to octa- and nonapeptides through the C- or N-terminus as precursors of leuprolide acetate. The synthesized compounds are peptidomimetics of leuprolide acetate.
TiO2composited with carbon nanofibers or nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes synthesized using coal fly ash as a catalyst: bisphenol-A photodegradation efficiency evaluation
Authors: Hlekelele Lerato , Franklyn Paul J. , Dziike Farai , Durbach Shane H.
Published: February 2018

The photocatalytic efficiency of TiO2was improved by compositing it with carbon nanomaterials synthesized using a waste material, fly ash.
Rapid degradation of unmanageable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons by a C-ZnO solid solution nanocatalyst
Authors: Xue Ya-Nan , Zhang Jing-Yu , Tang Sheng , Liu Jin-Ku , Yue Yun-Bo , Yang Xiao-Hong
Published: February 2018

Unmanageable polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were rapidly degraded by a C atom-doped ZnO solid solution (C-ZnO SS) nanocatalyst due to the sucker effect.
Simplified production of graphene oxide assisted by high shear exfoliation of graphite with controlled oxidation
Authors: Chong Kai Yin , Chia Chin Hua , Chook Soon Wei , Zakaria Sarani , Lucas David
Published: February 2018

In this work, a scalable method was developed to produce graphene oxide (GO)viahigh-shearing of pre-oxidized graphite.
Mechanistic understanding of tungsten oxide in-plane nanostructure growth via sequential infiltration synthesis
Authors: Kim Jae Jin , Suh Hyo Seon , Zhou Chun , Mane Anil U. , Lee Byeongdu , Kim Soojeong , Emery Jonathan D. , Elam Jeffrey W. , Nealey Paul F. , Fenter Paul , Fister Timothy T.
Published: February 2018

Tungsten oxide in-plane nanostructures have been fabricated by sequential infiltration synthesis, providing valuable insights into the growth process.
Polymer brushes in solid-state nanopores form an impenetrable entropic barrier for proteins
Authors: Emilsson Gustav , Xiong Kunli , Sakiyama Yusuke , Malekian Bita , Ahlberg Gagnér Viktor , Schoch Rafael L. , Lim Roderick Y. H. , Dahlin Andreas B.
Published: February 2018

We show that hydrophilic polymer brushes inside nanopores form a strong barrier for proteins despite consisting mainly of water.
The promotion effect of manganese on Cu/SAPO for selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3
Authors: Pang Chengkai , Zhuo Yuqun , Weng Qiyu , Zhu Zhenwu
Published: February 2018

The activity and N2 selectivity of Cu/SAPO and xMn–2Cu/SAPO for low-temperature selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 were investigated.
Hyaluronan-based graft copolymers bearing aggregation-induced emission fluorogens
Authors: Cappelli Andrea , Paolino Marco , Reale Annalisa , Razzano Vincenzo , Grisci Giorgio , Giuliani Germano , Donati Alessandro , Bonechi Claudia , Lamponi Stefania , Mendichi Raniero , Battiato Salvatore , Samperi Filippo , Makovec Francesco , Licciardi Mariano , Depau Lorenzo , Botta Chiara
Published: February 2018

A new technology platform has been developed with hyaluronan playing the role of the macromolecular carrier and ferulate the central role of natural small molecule fluorogenic clickable linker.
A molecular study of modern oil paintings: investigating the role of dicarboxylic acids in the water sensitivity of modern oil paints
Authors: Banti Donatella , La Nasa Jacopo , Tenorio Anna Lluveras , Modugno Francesca , Jan van den Berg Klaas , Lee Judith , Ormsby Bronwyn , Burnstock Aviva , Bonaduce Ilaria
Published: February 2018

Quantitative mass spectrometry was used to investigate the role played by dicarboxylic acids in the water sensitivity of modern oil paints.
Structural design of anode materials for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Wanlin , Li Weijie , Wang Shun , Miao Zongcheng , Liu Hua Kun , Chou Shulei
Published: February 2018

With the high consumption and increasing price of lithium resources, sodium ion batteries (SIBs) have been considered as attractive and promising potential alternatives to lithium ion batteries, owing to the abundance and low cost of sodium resources, and the similar electrochemical properties of sodium to lithium.
Induction of oxidative stress and sensitization of cancer cells to paclitaxel by gold nanoparticles with different charge densities and hydrophobicities
Authors: Sun Hainan , Liu Yin , Bai Xue , Zhou Xiaofei , Zhou Hongyu , Liu Sijin , Yan Bing
Published: February 2018

Gold nanoparticles with various positive charge densities and hydrophobicities induce cellular oxidative stress differently and sensitize cancer cells to paclitaxel.
Plasmonic molybdenum trioxide quantum dots with noble metal-comparable surface enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Zhang Jiajia , Pan Yunmei , Chen Yufei , Lu Hongbin
Published: February 2018

We propose a one-pot solution strategy to prepare sub-stoichiometric MoO3 quantum dots (MoO3−χ-QDs) with single-layered, vacancy-containing and few-crystalline features, which display surface plasmon resonance (SPR) in both visible and near-infrared regions without illumination.
Affinity functionalization of PVA-co-PE nanofibrous membrane with Ni(ii)-chelated ligand for bovine hemoglobin adsorption
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Wenwen , Li Mufang , Lu Zhentan , Liu Ke , Wang Yuedan , Wang Dong
Published: February 2018

Ni(ii)-Chelated PVA-co-PE nanofibrous membrane can be prepared easily and this study provides an exploratory research for the large-scale purification of BHb.
Phytochemical characterization,in vitroandin silicoapproaches for threeHypericumspecies
Authors: Llorent-Martínez Eulogio J. , Zengin Gokhan , Lobine Devina , Molina-García Lucia , Mollica Adriano , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi
Published: February 2018

Members of theHypericumgenus are spread throughout the world and have a long history of use in traditional systems of medicines.
In vitrocombinations of inert phenolato Ti(iv) complexes with clinically employed anticancer chemotherapy: synergy with oxaliplatin on colon cells
Authors: Ganot N. , Tshuva E. Y.
Published: February 2018

An advanced phenolato Ti(iv) complex combined with known cancer drugs on the clinically-relevant lines provides synergistic or additivein vitroanticancer activity.
The distribution of rare earth ions in a γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystal-silicate glass composite and its influence on the photoluminescence properties
Authors: Gao Zhigang , Lu Xiaosong , Chu Yushi , Guo Shu , Liu Lu , Liu Yinyao , Sun Shiyu , Ren Jing , Yang Jun
Published: February 2018

The partitioning of rare earth ions (REs: Yb3+, Er3+, Eu3+ and Nd3+) in γ-Ga2O3 nanocrystals (NCs) precipitated in a nanostructured silicate glass ceramic is revealed, and the enrichment of REs in the NCs (bulk doping) rather than on the interfaces between the NCs and the surrounding glassy phase (surface doping) is differentiated.
Electrostatically driven long‐microbeams for low‐frequency applications
Authors: Al‐mashaal A.K. , Wood G. , Mastropaolo E. , Cheung R.
Published: February 2018

This Letter presents the design, fabrication and characterisation of an array of electrostatically actuated clamped–clamped microbeams. A large bottom actuation electrode and long beams with lengths ranging from 1 to 3.4 mm are the major features of the present device. The novelty of this Letter lies in the realisation of suspended and undeformed microstructures by controlling the process‐induced stress during the fabrication process. This has been achieved by compensating the influence of the compressive and tensile stress components of the different deposited layers, resulting in ultralong beams with a relatively straight mechanical profile and an aspect ratio of ∼1:3400 of vertical deflection to the beam length. For the first time, ultralong microbeams of tantalum have been actuated electrostatically with AC and DC driving voltages to drive them into resonance and characterise their resonant frequencies. The lowest resonant frequency of 1.4 kHz is obtained for a 3.4 mm‐long beam. The shift of the resonant frequency due to the effect of different DC biasing has been investigated experimentally. A spring softening effect has been induced through electrostatic tuning. A downward shift in the resonant frequency to 35,000 ppm for DC bias voltages increasing from 1 to 5 V has been demonstrated.
Adaptive protection coordination scheme against the staircase fault current waveforms in PV‐dominated distribution systems
Authors: Fani Bahador , Dadkhah Mohammad , Karami‐Horestani Alireza
Published: February 2018

Photovoltaic (PV) systems, as distributed energy resources, can adversely affect the coordination of the protection system in distribution circuits. Various approaches have been presented in the literature to solve this problem, but none of them has proposed a solution for the staircase current waveforms seen in PV‐dominated distribution systems. As there is insufficient time to apply new settings to a protection device following a fault, the appropriate solution should be to adaptively modify the characteristic curves in advance of the fault. Accordingly, using the voltage profile as a pre‐fault index for current waveform, this study suggests an adaptive approach to efficiently modify the protection settings before the fault occurrence. To this end, first, an offline technique is used to calculate the best appropriate group setting corresponding to each voltage profile. Second, in real time and according to the voltage profile, an online algorithm applies the predefined group settings to the corresponding protection devices. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method on a practical network such that by applying the proposed technique, settings on programmable protection devices can be readily modified to improve on their coordination.
Second‐order RC: analysis, augmentation, and anti‐frequency‐variation for single‐phase grid‐tied inverter
Authors: Li Dapeng , Ye Yongqiang
Published: February 2018

High‐order repetitive control can deal with period variation. An augmented second‐order repetitive control (RC) scheme is presented to improve system performance under grid frequency variation. Firstly, the relationship between proportional‐integral/inertial, multiple‐resonant, multi‐quasi‐resonant control, and second‐order RC is analysed. The weight range of second‐order RC is discussed. Then, a second‐order RC approach augmented by proportional control is proposed for a single‐phase grid‐tied inverter. Experiments are provided to verify the superiority of second‐order RC compared with single‐order RC under frequency variation.
Application of GPR Method for Detection of Loose Zones in Flood Levee
Authors: Gołębiowski Tomisław , Małysa Tomasz
Published: February 2018

In the paper the results of non-invasive georadar (GPR) surveys carried out for detection of loose zones located in the flood levee was presented. Terrain measurements were performed on the Vistula river flood levee in the village of Wawrzeńczyce near Cracow. In the investigation site, during the flood in 2010, leakages of levee were observed, so detection of inner water filtration paths was an important matter taking into account the stability of the levee during the next flood. GPR surveys had reconnaissance character, so they were carried out with the use of short-offset reflection profiling (SORP) technique and radargrams were subjected to standard signal processing. The results of surveys allowed to outline main loose zone in the levee which were the reason of leakages in 2010. Additionally gravel interbeddings in sand were detected which had an important influence, due to higher porosity of such zones, to water filtration inside of the levee. In the paper three solutions which allow to increase quality and resolution of radargrams were presented, i.e. changeable-polarisation surveys, advanced signal processing and DHA procedure.
Composting of sewage sludge with solid fraction of digested pulp from agricultural biogas plant
Authors: Czekała Wojciech , Dach Jacek , Przybył Jacek , Mazurwiekiwcz Jakub , Janczak Damian , Lewicki Andrzej , Smurzyńska Anna , Kozłowski Kamil
Published: February 2018

Sewage sludge management is an important element of environmental protection. Composting and anaerobic digestion are the biological conversion methods for sewage sludge management. Mass and volume reduction is a result of a properly composted process. Solid fraction of digested pulp can be use as co-substrate, because it is good structural material. The aim of the study was to determine the possibility of composting sewage sludge with a solid fraction of digestate. The compost mix consisted of 25 kilograms of sewage sludge and 20 kilograms solid fraction of digestate in fresh mass. The experiment was carried out in laboratory conditions. Bioreactors of 165 dm3 volume were used. The experiment included two stages. Stage I took place in bioreactors and lasted until the cooling phase of the compost was complete. Stage II included compost maturation for a period of eight months (to 287 day of composting). The reduction of mass obtained at the end of Stage I amounted 30.2%. At the end of Stage II, it was 86.7% relative to the initial weight of the compost. The maximum value of temperature was 75.1°C. Studies have shown that sludge with a solid fraction of digestate can be a suitable substrate for composting with sewage sludge.
Microbial mats as shelter microhabitat for amphipods in an intermittent karstic spring
Authors: Žutinić Petar , Petrić Ines , Gottstein Sanja , Gligora Udovič Marija , Kralj Borojević Koraljka , Kamberović Jasmina , Kolda Anamarija , Plenković-Moraj Anđelka , Ternjej Ivančica
Published: February 2018

Microbial mats represent complex communities where cyanobacteria and diatoms as key organisms provide shelter for diverse assemblages of aquatic invertebrates, like the small stygophilous amphipodSynurella ambulans. Studies addressing such communities in the karst springs have rarely examined springheads, and have ignored intermittent springs. During high flow conditions the stygophilic crustaceans are flushed to the surface of a temporary stream Krčić where microbial mats prevent their drift and enables their successful retreat into underground in the periods of drought. The objective of this study was to characterize the microbial mat community of the Krčić Spring as a shelter forS.ambulansduring strong current and high water level. Representative samples for diatom and cyanobacterial species identification and composition, as well as the fresh mat material for potential animal activity and cyanobacterial phylogenetic analysis were collected. The most dominant diatom wasAchnanthidiumminutissimum, whilstFragilariacapucina,Meridioncirculare,NaviculacryptocephalaandNitzschiapaleahad abundance greater than 0.5%. Morphological observations of cyanobacteria revealed thatPhormidiumfavosumwas the most dominant, withHydrocoleummuscicolaas a subdominant. Cyanobacterial phylogenetic relationship revealed two distinct clusters: (i) "Phormidiumcluster", confirming morphological observations in both winter and spring samples, and (ii) "Wilmottiacluster", a first report for Croatia and found exclusively in the winter sample. Laboratory observations revealed a small stygophilic amphipodS.ambulans, hiding and feeding inside the pockets of fresh microbial mat. The intermittent Krčić Spring as a predator-free and competitor-free ecosystem provides a spatiotemporal conformity between microbial mat and stygophilous amphipod.
Mit guten Vorsätzen ins neue Jahr: Solidaritätsprinzip in unserer Gesellschaft festigen
Authors: Dernedde Jutta
Published: February 2018

Viele von Ihnen sind in dieses neue Jahr sicherlich mit der festen Absicht gestartet, das ein oder andere künftig besser oder anders zu machen. Und womöglich hat sich Ihr persönliches Ziel, etwas mehr Sport zu treiben oder auf dem Schreibtisch Liegengebliebenes aufzuarbeiten, bereits heute als etwas zu hoch gesteckt entpuppt. Doch über diese privaten Vorsätze hinaus, gibt es auch auf politischer Ebene ein immer wiederkehrendes Credo: dem Auseinanderdriften der Gesellschaft besser entgegenzuwirken. Das scheint ein mindestens genauso ambitioniertes Vorhaben. Eine Gesellschaft, in der die Interessen von jungen und alten, armen und reichen, hier geborenen und zugereisten Menschen oft auseinander gehen, wird auf die Probe gestellt. Das Ergebnis ist ein Stück weit offen.
Branche in Zahlen
Authors: Mewis Dirk
Published: February 2018

Dieser Artikel ist nur als PDF-Dokument verfügbar.
Umgang mit Unerwünschten Ereignissen: „Unfallflucht“ kommt teurer
Authors: Holtel Markus
Published: February 2018

Das bringt den Autofahrer in Versuchung: Ein parkendes Fahrzeug touchiert, nur ein kleiner Kratzer. Wozu bleiben und sich unnötigem Ärger aussetzen? So denken ebenfalls manche Ärzte nach einem medizinischen Zwischenfall. Doch „Unfallflucht“ scheint auch im weißen Kittel die schlechteste Lösung.
The Pediatric Patella: Normal Development, Anatomical Variants and Malformations, Stability, Imaging, and Injury Patterns
Authors: Stanescu A. , Ngo Anh-Vu , Parisi Marguerite , Iyer Ramesh , Maloney Ezekiel
Published: February 2018

We discuss the pediatric patella, with an emphasis on diagnostic imaging. Topics include normal patellar development, anatomical variants and their physiologic significance, genetic syndromes that alter the appearance of the patella, physiology of patellar tracking and stability, patellofemoral instability, and injury patterns and classification. Recognition of appropriate development on imaging prevents diagnostic error and unnecessary evaluation. Knowledge of the pertinent features of syndromes associated with morphological patellar abnormalities can aid in generating a succinct and relevant differential diagnosis. In patellofemoral instability, the patient's baseline anatomy, factors that predispose to instability, and the specific injuries that occur as a result are critical considerations for determining the course of treatment. Patellar sleeve fractures are unique to pediatric patients, and timely identification is critical to achieving an optimal treatment outcome.
Skeletal Dysplasias: Radiologic Approach with Common and Notable Entities
Authors: Thapa Mahesh , Otjen Jeffrey , Kamps Shawn , Ngo Anh-Vu
Published: February 2018

Skeletal dysplasia is a heterogeneous group of abnormalities affecting growth and development of bone and cartilage characterized by disproportionate shortening of the limbs and/or spine. A systematic radiographic approach combined with pertinent clinical details can help guide specific genetic testing and treatment. We provide a discussion and examples of a few common and notable skeletal dysplasias to help familiarize general, pediatric, and musculoskeletal radiologists who do not commonly encounter children with these entities in their daily practices.
Orthopaedic Fixation Devices Used in Children: A Radiologist's Guide
Authors: Allen Hailey , Davis Kirkland , Noonan Kenneth , Endo Yoshimi , Nguyen Jie
Published: February 2018

Fractures are common in children with some requiring surgical reduction and fixation to maintain anatomical alignment. Although various surgical techniques and principles are shared between children and adults, certain unique considerations in children can influence the surgical approach and device selection. In particular, for skeletally immature children, it is of utmost importance to protect certain critical open growth plates because permanent injury can produce severe growth disturbances. The often robust healing response and potential limited patient compliance can also influence the treatment algorithm and decision making. Commonly encountered orthopaedic fixation devices, including screws, intramedullary devices, and plates, are reviewed with an emphasis on their mechanism and application in children. Additional miscellaneous devices that are commonly used to treat malalignment and guide bone growth including epiphysiodesis plates, proximal femur osteotomy plates, and spinal magnetic growing rods are also reviewed. The goal of this article is to provide a basic understanding of the principles and mechanisms of different types of pediatric orthopaedic devices and thereby improve the radiologist's diagnostic confidence and allow better anticipation of complications.
Integrated Management of the Thick-Skinned Rhinoplasty Patient
Authors: Camacho Juan , Orrego Jorge , Cobo Roxana
Published: February 2018

Patients with thick skin are a challenge in facial plastic surgery. Rhinoplasty is still the most frequently performed facial plastic procedure worldwide and it becomes very difficult to obtain optimal consistent results in these patients. A systematic presurgical skin evaluation is performed dividing skin into type I–III depending on the elasticity, oiliness, presence of skin alterations, size of skin pores, and laxity. Depending on the skin type, presurgical, surgical, and postsurgical management of the epidermis and dermis is defined. Preconditioning and treating thick skin can improve postsurgical results and reduce postsurgical unwanted results.
Point-of-Care-Sonografie in der Notfall- und Intensivmedizin
Authors: Busche Caroline , Busch Hans-Jörg , Michels Guido
Published: February 2018

Was ist neu?

Indikationen für die Notfallsonografie Der Stellenwert der Point-of-Care-Sonografie (POC-Sonografie) gewinnt zunehmend an Bedeutung in der bettseitigen Versorgung von Patienten – besonders die Anwendung in der Notfall- und Intensivmedizin. Indikationen für eine POC-Sonografie umfassen neuerdings neben der fokussierten Sonografie von Herz, Lunge und Abdomen auch Fälle in der prähospitalen Phase. Zunehmend erlangen in der Intensivmedizin auch spezielle Einsatzgebiete wie z. B. die Beurteilung des Weaningprozesses und der Hämodynamik der Patienten mittels sonografischer Kontrolle an Bedeutung.

Ausbildung Die Deutsche Gesellschaft für internistische Intensiv- und Notfallmedizin e. V. (DGIIN), die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ultraschall in der Medizin e. V. (DEGUM) und die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Kardiologie e. V. (DGK) haben eine gemeinsame Empfehlung für ein Ausbildungskonzept in der Point-of-Care-Sonografie erarbeitet. Ziel dabei ist die Qualitätssicherung und entsprechend die Patientenversorgung in der internistischen Notfall- und Intensivmedizin zu verbessern 1.
Diversity of hysteresis in a fully cooperative coinfection model
Authors: Rodríguez Jorge P. , Liang Yu-Hao , Huang Yu-Jhe , Juang Jonq
Published: February 2018

We propose a fully cooperative coinfection model in which singly infected individuals are more likely to acquire a second disease than susceptible ones and doubly infected individuals are also assumed to be more contagious than singly infected ones. The dynamics of such a fully cooperative coinfection model is investigated through the well-mixed approach. In particular, discontinuous outbreak transitions from the disease free state or the low prevalence state to the high prevalence state can be separately observed as a disease transmission rate crosses a threshold αo from the below when the epidemic is still in the early stages. Moreover, discontinuous eradications from the high prevalence state to the low prevalence or disease free state are also separately seen as the transmission rate reaches a threshold αe(<αo) from the above when the outbreak occurs. Such phenomena constitute three types of hysteresis, where only one type has been identified before. Complete characterization of these three types of hysteresis in terms of parameters measuring the uniformity of the model is both analytically and numerically provided.
Note: Possibilities of detecting the trace-level erosion products from an electric propulsion hollow cathode plasma source by the method of time-of-flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Ning Zhong-Xi , Zhang Hai-Guang , Zhu Xi-Ming , Jiang Bin-Hao , Zhou Zhong-Yue , Yu Da-Ren , An Bing-Jian , Wang Yan-Fei
Published: February 2018

A hollow cathode produces electrons which neutralize ions from electric propulsion thrusters. After hundreds to thousands of hours of operation in space, the cathode materials can be significantly eroded due to ion bombardment. As a result, the electric propulsion system performance will be obviously changed or even fail. In this work, the erosion products from a LaB6 hollow cathode (widely used presently in electric propulsion systems) are studied by using a specific detection system, which consists of a molecular beam sampler and a time-of-flight mass spectrometer. This system measures trace-level-concentration (10−6–10−3) products. Boron (B), tantalum (Ta), and tungsten (W)—originating from the emitter, keeper, and orifice of the hollow cathode—are measured. It is found that the erosion rate is significantly influenced by the gas flow rate to the cathode.
Anti-flutter optimization design of airfoil for wind turbine blade
Authors: Gao Qiang , Cai Xin , Meng Rui , Zhu Jie
Published: February 2018

An anti-flutter optimization design of DU 98-W-210 airfoil for wind turbine blades is carried out by employing the particle swarm optimization algorithm. As is well known, the increase in the torsional blade stiffness, which is in proportion to the polar moment of inertia, will improve the anti-flutter ability of airfoil. Thus, maximizing the polar moment of inertia is selected as the design objective, within the aerodynamic performance constraints (i.e., the lift-to drag ratios in a wide range of AOAs (Angle of Attack) should not be lower than the original value). The commercially available software CFX is employed to calculate the flow field by solving the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations coupled with the shear stress transport turbulence model. The results show a significant improvement in both the polar moment of inertia and the lift-to-drag ratios in a wide range of AOAs of the optimized airfoil compared to the original DU 98-W-210 airfoil.
Spectroscopic ellipsometry investigation of the optical properties of graphene oxide dip-coated on magnetron sputtered gold thin films
Authors: Politano Grazia Giuseppina , Vena Carlo , Desiderio Giovanni , Versace Carlo
Published: February 2018

Despite intensive investigations on graphene oxide-gold nanocomposites, the interaction of graphene oxide sheets with magnetron sputtered gold thin films has not been studied yet. The optical constants of graphene oxide thin films dip-coated on magnetron sputtered gold thin films were determined by spectroscopic ellipsometry in the [300–1000] wavelength range. Moreover, the morphologic properties of the samples were investigated by SEM analysis. Graphene oxide absorbs mainly in the ultraviolet region, but when it is dip-coated on magnetron sputtered gold thin films, its optical constants show dramatic changes, becoming absorbing in the visible region, with a peak of the extinction coefficient at 3.1 eV. Using magnetron sputtered gold thin films as a substrate for graphene oxide thin films could therefore be the key to enhance graphene oxide optical sheets' properties for several technological applications, preserving their oxygen content and avoiding the reduction process.
A 3D-printed device for polymer nanoimprint lithography
Authors: Caño-García Manuel , Geday Morten A. , Gil-Valverde Manuel , Megías Zarco Antonio , Otón José M. , Quintana Xabier
Published: February 2018

Nanoimprint lithography (NIL) is an imprinting technique which has experienced an increasing popularity due to its versatility in fabrication processes. Commercial NIL machines are readily available achieving high quality results; however, these machines involve a relatively high investment. Hence, small laboratories often choose to perform NIL copies in a more rudimentary and cheaper way. A new simple system is presented in this document. It is based on two devices which can be made in-house in plastic by using a 3D printer or in aluminum. Thus, the overall manufacturing complexity is vastly reduced. The presented system includes pressure control and potentially temperature control. Replicas have been made using a sawtooth grating master with a pitch around half micrometre. High quality patterns with low density of imperfections have been achieved in 2.25 cm2 surfaces. The material chosen for the negative intermediary mould is PDMS. Tests of the imprint have been performed using the commercial hybrid polymer Ormostamp®.
Extended band anti-crossing model for dilute bismides
Authors: Hader J. , Badescu S. C. , Bannow L. C. , Moloney J. V. , Johnson S. R. , Koch S. W.
Published: February 2018

Bandstructure properties of dilute bismide bulk systems are calculated using density functional theory. An extended band anti-crossing model is introduced to fit the obtained results. Using these as inputs for a fully microscopic many-body theory, absorption and photoluminescence spectra are computed for bulk and quantum-well systems. Comparison to experimental results identifies the applicability range of the new anti-crossing model.
Superstrong micro-grained polycrystalline diamond compact through work hardening under high pressure
Authors: Liu Jin , Zhan Guodong , Wang Qiang , Yan Xiaozhi , Liu Fangming , Wang Pei , Lei Li , Peng Fang , Kou Zili , He Duanwei
Published: February 2018

We report an approach to strengthen micro-grained polycrystalline diamond (MPD) compact through work hardening under high pressure and high temperature, in which both hardness and fracture toughness are simultaneously boosted. Micro-sized diamond powders are treated without any additives under a high pressure of 14 GPa and temperatures ranging from 1000 °C to 2000 °C. It was found that the high pressure and high temperature environments could constrain the brittle feature and cause a severe plastic deformation of starting diamond grains to form a mutual bonded diamond network. The relative density is increased with temperature to nearly fully dense at 1600 °C. The Vickers hardness of the well-prepared MPD bulks at 14 GPa and 1900 °C reaches the top limit of the single crystal diamond of 120 GPa, and the near-metallic fracture toughness of the sample is as high as 18.7 MPa m1/2.
Refined analysis of the X̃ 2A2←X̃ 1A1 photoelectron spectrum of furan
Authors: Petrenko Taras , Rauhut Guntram
Published: February 2018

The X̃ 2A2←X̃ 1A1 photoelectron spectrum of furan has been studied by a time-independent eigenstate-free Raman wave function approach based on multi-dimensional potential energy surfaces obtained from explicitly correlated distinguishable clusters calculations. Individual vibronic transitions with the most significant Franck-Condon factors were determined by our recently developed residual-based algorithm for the calculation of eigenpairs in conjunction with the formalism of contracted invariant Krylov subspaces. The account of anharmonic and temperature effects allowed us to explain most bands in an experimental high-resolution zero kinetic energy photoelectron spectrum. This led to the reassignment of many spectral features, as well as a refined interpretation of the intensity mechanism for the corresponding transitions.
Changes in the flagellar bundling time account for variations in swimming behavior of flagellated bacteria in viscous media
Authors: Qu Zijie , Temel Fatma Zeynep , Henderikx Rene , Breuer Kenneth S.
Published: February 2018

Significance

Changes in the swimming speed and behavior of wild-type
Escherichia coli
in Newtonian fluids of varying viscosity are described. Individual cells exhibit both “run-and-tumble” and “slow random-walk” modes of motility. As the solution viscosity rises, variations in the flagellar bundling time account for changes in the swimming behavior of the cells. A unique contribution is the identification of the skewness of the speed distribution as a key parameter for characterizing different swimming behaviors. The skewness is shown to be solely a function of viscosity and independent of the cell’s metabolic activity. Using both numerical simulation and resistive force theory, we compute the flagellar bundling time as a function of viscosity and achieve good agreement with direct observations.