bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Triptolide in Rheumatoid Arthritis: From Basic Research towards Clinical Translation
Authors: Fan Danping , Guo Qingqing , Shen Jiawen , Zheng Kang , Lu Cheng , Zhang Ge , Lu Aiping , He Xiaojuan
Published: January 2018

Triptolide (TP), a major extract of the herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F (TWHF), has been shown to exert potent pharmacological effects, especially an immunosuppressive effect in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, its multiorgan toxicity prevents it from being widely used in clinical practice. Recently, several attempts are being performed to reduce TP toxicity. In this review, recent progress in the use of TP for RA, including its pharmacological effects and toxicity, is summarized. Meanwhile, strategies relying on chemical structural modifications, innovative delivery systems, and drug combinations to alleviate the disadvantages of TP are also reviewed. Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges and perspectives in their clinical translation.
Evaluation of Capacitive Markers Fabricated by 3D Printing, Laser Cutting and Prototyping
Authors: Kreimeier Julian , Bielmeier Thomas , Götzelmann Timo
Published: January 2018

With Tangible User Interfaces, the computer user is able to interact in a fundamentally different and more intuitive way than with usual 2D displays. By grasping real physical objects, information can also be conveyed haptically, i.e., the user not only sees information on a 2D display, but can also grasp physical representations. To recognize such objects (“tangibles”) it is skillful to use capacitive sensing, as it happens in most touch screens. Thus, real objects can be located and identified by the touch screen display automatically. Recent work already addressed such capacitive markers, but focused on their coding scheme and automated fabrication by 3D printing. This paper goes beyond the fabrication by 3D printers and, for the first time, applies the concept of capacitive codes to laser cutting and another immediate prototyping approach using modeling clay. Beside the evaluation of additional properties, we adapt recent research results regarding the optimized detection of tangible objects on capacitive screens. As a result of our comprehensive study, the detection performance is affected by the type of capacitive signal processing (respectively the device) and the geometry of the marker. 3D printing revealed to be the most reliable technique, though laser cutting and immediate prototyping of markers showed promising results. Based on our findings, we discuss individual strengths of each capacitive marker type.
A Bond Graph Approach for the Modeling and Simulation of a Buck Converter
Authors: Zrafi Rached , Ghedira Sami , Besbes Kamel
Published: January 2018

This paper deals with the modeling of bond graph buck converter systems. The bond graph formalism, which represents a heterogeneous formalism for physical modeling, is used to design a sub-model of a power MOSFET and PiN diode switchers. These bond graph models are based on the device’s electrical elements. The application of these models to a bond graph buck converter permit us to obtain an invariant causal structure when the switch devices change state. This paper shows the usefulness of the bond graph device’s modeling to simulate an implicit bond graph buck converter.
Mapping Urban Green Infrastructure: A Novel Landscape-Based Approach to Incorporating Land Use and Land Cover in the Mapping of Human-Dominated Systems
Authors: Dennis Matthew , Barlow David , Cavan Gina , Cook Penny , Gilchrist Anna , Handley John , James Philip , Thompson Jessica , Tzoulas Konstantinos , Wheater C. Philip , Lindley Sarah
Published: January 2018

Common approaches to mapping green infrastructure in urbanised landscapes invariably focus on measures of land use or land cover and associated functional or physical traits. However, such one-dimensional perspectives do not accurately capture the character and complexity of the landscapes in which urban inhabitants live. The new approach presented in this paper demonstrates how open-source, high spatial and temporal resolution data with global coverage can be used to measure and represent the landscape qualities of urban environments. Through going beyond simple metrics of quantity, such as percentage green and blue cover, it is now possible to explore the extent to which landscape quality helps to unpick the mixed evidence presented in the literature on the benefits of urban nature to human well-being. Here we present a landscape approach, employing remote sensing, GIS and data reduction techniques to map urban green infrastructure elements in a large U.K. city region. Comparison with existing urban datasets demonstrates considerable improvement in terms of coverage and thematic detail. The characterisation of landscapes, using census tracts as spatial units, and subsequent exploration of associations with social–ecological attributes highlights the further detail that can be uncovered by the approach. For example, eight urban landscape types identified for the case study city exhibited associations with distinct socioeconomic conditions accountable not only to quantities but also qualities of green and blue space. The identification of individual landscape features through simultaneous measures of land use and land cover demonstrated unique and significant associations between the former and indicators of human health and ecological condition. The approach may therefore provide a promising basis for developing further insight into processes and characteristics that affect human health and well-being in urban areas, both in the United Kingdom and beyond.
Prediction of Tensile Behavior of UHSFRC Considering the Flow Field in the Placing Dominated by Shear Flow
Authors: Moon Joon-Shik , Kang Su-Tae
Published: January 2018

Considering the case of fabricating a UHSFRC (ultra-high strength fiber-reinforced concrete) beam with the method of one end placing and self-flowing to the other end, it was intended to simulate the variation of the fiber orientation distribution according to the flow distance and the variation of the resultant tensile behaviors. Then the validity of the simulation approach was shown by comparing the simulated results with experimental ones. A three-point bending test with a notched beam was adopted for the experiment and a finite element analysis was performed to obtain the simulated results for the bending test considering the flow-dependent tensile behavior of the UHSFRC. From the simulation for the fiber orientation distribution according to the flow distance, it could be found that the major change in the fiber orientation distribution took place within a short flow distance and most of the fibers became nearly aligned to the flow direction. After some flow distance, there was a not-so-remarkable variation in the fiber orientation distribution that could influence the tensile behavior of the composite. For this flow region, the consistent flexural test results, regardless of flow distance, demonstrate the reliability of the simulation.
On the PLC Effect in a Particle Reinforced AA2017 Alloy
Authors: Härtel Markus , Illgen Christian , Frint Philipp , Wagner Martin
Published: January 2018

The Portevin–Le Châtelier (PLC) effect often results in serrated plastic flow during tensile testing of aluminum alloys. Its magnitude and characteristics are often sensitive to a material’s heat treatment condition and to the applied strain rate and deformation temperature. In this study, we analyze the plastic deformation behavior of an age-hardenable Al-Cu alloy (AA2017) and of a particle reinforced AA2017 alloy (10 vol. % SiC) in two different conditions: solid solution annealed (W) and naturally aged (T4). For the W-condition of both materials, pronounced serrated flow is observed, while both T4-conditions do not show distinct serrations. It is also found that a reduction of the testing temperature (−60 °C, −196 °C) shifts the onset of serrations to larger plastic strains and additionally reduces their amplitude. Furthermore, compressive jump tests (with alternating strain rates) at room temperature confirm a negative strain rate sensitivity for the W-condition. The occurring PLC effect, as well as the propagation of the corresponding PLC bands in the W-condition, is finally characterized by digital image correlation (DIC) and by acoustic emission measurements during tensile testing. The formation of PLC bands in the reinforced material is accompanied by distinct stress drops as well as by perceptible acoustic emission, and the experimental results clearly show that only type A PLC bands occur during testing at room temperature (RT).
An Efficient Approach to Address Issues of Graphene Nanoplatelets (GNPs) Incorporation in Aluminium Powders and Their Compaction Behaviour
Authors: Baig Zeeshan , Mamat Othman , Mustapha Mazli , Mumtaz Asad , Sarfraz Mansoor , Haider Sajjad
Published: January 2018

The exceptional potential of the graphene has not been yet fully translated into the Al matrix to achieve high-performance Al nanocomposite. This is due to some critical issues faced by graphene during its processing such as the dispersion uniformity, structure damage, compatibility/wettability, and low graphene embedding content in Al matrix. In the present work, a new integrative method was adopted and named as “solvent dispersion and ball milling” (SDBM) to address the issues above efficiently in a single approach. This strategy involves effective graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) solvent dispersion via surfactant decoration and solution ball milling employed to polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) coated Al with various GNPs content (0.5, 1 and 1.5 wt. %). Flaky Al powder morphology attained by optimizing ball milling parameters and used for further processing with GNPs. Detailed powders characterizations were conducted to investigate morphology, graphene dispersion, group functionalities by FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) spectroscopy and crystallinity by powder XRD (X-ray diffraction)analysis. Compaction behaviour and spring back effect of the GNPs/Al powders was also investigated at different compaction pressure (300 to 600 Mpa) and varying GNPs fractions. In response, green and sintered relative density (%) along with effect on the hardness of the nanocomposites samples were examined. Conclusively, in comparison with the unreinforced Al, GNP/Al nanocomposite with 1.5 wt. % GNPs exhibited the highest hardness gives 62% maximum increase than pure Al validates the effectiveness of the approach produces high fraction uniformly dispersed GNPs in Al matrix.
Mineralogy and Genesis of the Polymetallic and Polyphased Low Grade Fe-Mn-Cu Ore of Jbel Rhals Deposit (Eastern High Atlas, Morocco)
Authors: Verhaert Michèle , Bernard Alain , Saddiqi Omar , Dekoninck Augustin , Essalhi Mourad , Yans Johan
Published: January 2018

The Jbel Rhals deposit, located in the Oriental High Atlas of Morocco, hosts a polymetallic Fe-Mn-Cu ore. Large metric veins of goethite and pyrolusite cut through Paleozoic schists that are overlaid by Permian-Triassic basalts and Triassic conglomerates. The genesis of this deposit is clearly polyphased, resulting from supergene processes superimposed over hydrothermal phases. The flow of Permian-Triassic basalts probably generated the circulation of hydrothermal fluids through the sedimentary series, the alteration of basalts and schists, and the formation of hydrothermal primary ore composed of carbonates (siderite) and Cu-Fe sulfides. Several episodes of uplift triggered the exhumation of ores and host rocks, generating their weathering and the precipitation of a supergene ore assemblage (goethite, pyrolusite, malachite and calcite). In the Paleozoic basement, Fe-Mn oxihydroxides are mostly observed as rhombohedral crystals that correspond to the pseudomorphose of a primary mineral thought to be siderite; goethite precipitated first, rapidly followed by pyrolusite and other Mn oxides. Malachite formed later, with calcite, in fine millimetric veins cutting through host-rock schists, conglomerates and Fe-Mn ores.
Geochemistry, Mineralogy and Microbiology of Molybdenum in Mining-Affected Environments
Authors: Frascoli Francesca , Hudson-Edwards Karen
Published: January 2018

Molybdenum is an essential element for life, with growing production due to a constantly expanding variety of industrial applications. The potentially harmful effects of Mo on the environment, and on human and ecosystem health, require knowledge of Mo behavior in mining-affected environments. Mo is usually present in trace amounts in ore deposits, but mining exploitation can lead to wastes with very high Mo concentrations (up to 4000 mg/kg Mo for tailings), as well as soil, sediments and water contamination in surrounding areas. In mine wastes, molybdenum is liberated from sulfide mineral oxidation and can be sorbed onto secondary Fe(III)-minerals surfaces (jarosite, schwertmannite, ferrihydrite) at moderately acidic waters, or taken up in secondary minerals such as powellite and wulfenite at neutral to alkaline pH. To date, no Mo-metabolising bacteria have been isolated from mine wastes. However, laboratory and in-situ experiments in other types of contaminated land have suggested that several Mo-reducing and -oxidising bacteria may be involved in the cycling of Mo in and from mine wastes, with good potential for bioremediation. Overall, a general lack of data is highlighted, emphasizing the need for further research on the contamination, geochemistry, bio-availability and microbial cycling of Mo in mining-affected environments to improve environmental management and remediation actions.
HPLC-PDA Combined with Chemometrics for Quantitation of Active Components and Quality Assessment of Raw and Processed Fruits of Xanthium strumarium L.
Authors: Jiang Hai , Yang Liu , Xing Xudong , Yan Meiling , Guo Xinyue , Yang Bingyou , Wang Qiuhong , Kuang Haixue
Published: January 2018

As a valuable herbal medicine, the fruits of Xanthium strumarium L. (Xanthii Fructus) have been widely used in raw and processed forms to achieve different therapeutic effects in practice. In this study, a comprehensive strategy was proposed for evaluating the active components in 30 batches of raw and processed Xanthii Fructus (RXF and PXF) samples, based on high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection (HPLC-PDA). Twelve common peaks were detected and eight compounds of caffeoylquinic acids were simultaneously quantified in RXF and PXF. All the analytes were detected with satisfactory linearity (R2 > 0.9991) over wide concentration ranges. Simultaneously, the chemically latent information was revealed by hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA). The results suggest that there were significant differences between RXF and PXF from different regions in terms of the content of eight caffeoylquinic acids. Potential chemical markers for XF were found during processing by chemometrics.
A Systematic Study on the Structural and Optical Properties of Vertically Aligned Zinc Oxide Nanorods Grown by High Pressure Assisted Pulsed Laser Deposition Technique
Authors: Karnati Priyanka , Haque Ariful , Taufique M. , Ghosh Kartik
Published: January 2018

In this study, we synthesize high quality vertically aligned ZnO (VAZO) nanorods on silicon, sapphire, and indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates by using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique at high growth pressure (0.3 Torr). Systematic changes in structural and optical properties of VAZO nanorods are studied by varying the substrate temperature (500–600 °C) and number of pulsed laser shots during the deposition. ZnO nanoparticles deposited at high pressure act as nucleation sites, eliminating requirement of catalyst to fabricate VAZO nanorods. Two sharp ZnO peaks with high intensity correspond to the (0002) and (0004) planes in X-ray diffraction pattern confirm the growth of ZnO nanorods, oriented along the c-axis. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images indicate a regular arrangement of vertically aligned hexagonal closed pack nano-structures of ZnO. The vertical alignment of ZnO nanorods is also supported by the presence of E2 (high) and A1 (LO) modes in Raman spectra. We can tune the diameter of VAZO nanorods by changing growth temperature and annealing environments. Photoluminescence spectroscopy illustrates reduction in defect level peak intensities with increase in diameter of VAZO nanorods. This study signifies that high pressure PLD technique can be used more efficiently for controlled and efficient growth of VAZO nanorods on different substrates.
Improved Intranasal Retentivity and Transnasal Absorption Enhancement by PEGylated Poly-l-ornithine
Authors: Kamiya Yusuke , Yamaki Tsutomu , Omori Shigehiro , Uchida Masaki , Ohtake Kazuo , Kimura Mitsutoshi , Yamazaki Hiroshi , Natsume Hideshi
Published: January 2018

We reported that the introduction of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to poly-l-ornithine (PLO), which is an homopolymeric basic amino acid having absorption-enhancement ability, prolonged retention time in an in vitro inclined plate test, probably due to an increase in viscosity caused by PEGylation. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether the introduction of PEG chains to PLO improves intranasal retention and transnasal absorption in vivo. We performed intranasal administration experiments using PLO and PEG-PLO with a model drug, fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran (FD-4), in rats under closed and open systems. In the open system, transition of plasma FD-4 concentration after co-administration with unmodified PLO was low, and the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) decreased to about 60% of that in the closed system. In contrast, the AUC after co-administration with PEG-PLO in the open system was about 90% of that in the closed system, and the transition of plasma FD-4 concentration and FD-4 absorption profile were similar to those of the closed system. These findings indicate that introducing PEG chains to homopolymeric basic amino acids (HPBAAs) is a very useful method for developing a functional absorption enhancer that can exhibit an efficient in vivo absorption-enhancing effect.
Raman Imaging of Plant Cell Walls in Sections of Cucumis sativus
Authors: Zeise Ingrid , Heiner Zsuzsanna , Holz Sabine , Joester Maike , Büttner Carmen , Kneipp Janina
Published: January 2018

Raman microspectra combine information on chemical composition of plant tissues with spatial information. The contributions from the building blocks of the cell walls in the Raman spectra of plant tissues can vary in the microscopic sub-structures of the tissue. Here, we discuss the analysis of 55 Raman maps of root, stem, and leaf tissues of Cucumis sativus, using different spectral contributions from cellulose and lignin in both univariate and multivariate imaging methods. Imaging based on hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and principal component analysis (PCA) indicates different substructures in the xylem cell walls of the different tissues. Using specific signals from the cell wall spectra, analysis of the whole set of different tissue sections based on the Raman images reveals differences in xylem tissue morphology. Due to the specifics of excitation of the Raman spectra in the visible wavelength range (532 nm), which is, e.g., in resonance with carotenoid species, effects of photobleaching and the possibility of exploiting depletion difference spectra for molecular characterization in Raman imaging of plants are discussed. The reported results provide both, specific information on the molecular composition of cucumber tissue Raman spectra, and general directions for future imaging studies in plant tissues.
Shape Memory Behavior of PET Foams
Authors: Santo Loredana , Bellisario Denise , Quadrini Fabrizio
Published: January 2018

Shape memory properties of PET (polyethylene-terephthalate) foams have been evaluated for two different foam densities. Samples were subjected to multiple memory-recovery cycles along three different directions to measure the effect of foam anisotropy on static mechanical and shape memory properties. The memory cycle was performed by uniaxial compression tests at room temperature. Despite these severe conditions, PET foams demonstrated very good shape memory behavior with shape recovery always higher than 90%. Due to cycling, the mechanical performance of foam samples is partially reduced, mainly along the extrusion direction of the foam panels. Despite this loss of static performance, shape memory properties are only partially affected by thermo-mechanical cycles. The maximum reduction is 10% for shape fixity and 3% for shape recovery. The experimental results are particularly interesting considering that compression tests were undertaken at room temperature. Indeed, PET foams seem to be optimal candidates for self-repairing structures.
The Response of HeLa Cells to Fluorescent NanoDiamond Uptake
Authors: Hemelaar Simon , Saspaanithy Babujhi , L’Hommelet Severin , Perona Martinez Felipe , Van der Laan Kiran , Schirhagl Romana
Published: January 2018

Fluorescent nanodiamonds are promising probes for nanoscale magnetic resonance measurements. Their physical properties predict them to have particularly useful applications in intracellular analysis. Before using them in intracellular experiments however, it should be clear whether diamond particles influence cell biology. While cytotoxicity has already been ruled out in previous studies, we consider the non-fatal influence of fluorescent nanodiamonds on the formation of reactive oxygen species (an important stress indicator and potential target for intracellular sensing) for the first time. We investigated the influence of different sizes, shapes and concentrations of nanodiamonds on the genetic and protein level involved in oxidative stress-related pathways of the HeLa cell, an important model cell line in research. The changes in viability of the cells and the difference in intracellular levels of free radicals, after diamond uptake, are surprisingly small. At lower diamond concentrations, the cellular metabolism cannot be distinguished from that of untreated cells. This research supports the claims of non-toxicity and includes less obvious non-fatal responses. Finally, we give a handhold concerning the diamond concentration and size to use for non-toxic, intracellular measurements in favour of (cancer) research in HeLa cells.
Impact of MAC Delay on AUV Localization: Underwater Localization Based on Hyperbolic Frequency Modulation Signal
Authors: Kim Sungryul , Yoo Younghwan
Published: January 2018

Medium Access Control (MAC) delay which occurs between the anchor node’s transmissions is one of the error sources in underwater localization. In particular, in AUV localization, the MAC delay significantly degrades the ranging accuracy. The Cramer-Rao Low Bound (CRLB) definition theoretically proves that the MAC delay significantly degrades the localization performance. This paper proposes underwater localization combined with multiple access technology to decouple the localization performance from the MAC delay. Towards this goal, we adopt hyperbolic frequency modulation (HFM) signal that provides multiplexing based on its good property, high-temporal correlation. Owing to the multiplexing ability of the HFM signal, the anchor nodes can transmit packets without MAC delay, i.e., simultaneous transmission is possible. In addition, the simulation results show that the simultaneous transmission is not an optional communication scheme, but essential for the localization of mobile object in underwater.
Detection of Abrin by Electrochemiluminescence Biosensor Based on Screen Printed Electrode
Authors: Liu Shuai , Tong Zhaoyang , Mu Xihui , Liu Bing , Du Bin , Liu Zhiwei , Gao Chuan
Published: January 2018

For the convenience of fast measurement in the outdoor environment, a portable electrochemiluminescence biosensor with the screen-printed electrode as the reaction center was developed, which possesses the characteristics of high sensitivity, small scale, simplified operation and so on, and has been used for in situ detection of abrin. First, combining with magnetic separation technique, the “biotin-avidin” method was used to immobilize the polyclonal antibody (pcAb) on the magnetic microspheres surface as the capture probe. Secondly, the Ru(bpy)32+-labeled monoclonal antibody (mcAb) was used as the specific electrochemiluminescence signal probe. Then, the “mcAb-toxin-pcAb” sandwich model was built to actualize the quantitative detection of abrin on the surface of the screen-printed electrode. The linear detection range was 0.5–1000 ng/mL; the regression equation was Y = 89.251lgX + 104.978 (R = 0.9989, n = 7, p < 0.0001); and the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.1 ng/mL. The sensing system showed high sensitivity, excellent specificity and good anti-interference ability, and could be used for the analysis of trace abrin in various environmental samples with good recovery and reproducibility. Compared with the traditional electrochemiluminescence sensing device, its miniaturization and portability gives it potential to satisfy the requirement of in situ detection.
A Fiber Bragg Grating-Based Dynamic Tension Detection System for Overhead Transmission Line Galloping
Authors: Ma Guo-ming , Li Ya-bo , Mao Nai-qiang , Shi Cheng , Li Cheng-rong , Zhang Bo
Published: January 2018

Galloping of overhead transmission lines (OHTLs) may induce conductor breakage and tower collapse, and there is no effective method for long distance distribution on-line galloping monitoring. To overcome the drawbacks of the conventional galloping monitoring systems, such as sensitivity to electromagnetic interference, the need for onsite power, and short lifetimes, a novel optical remote passive measuring system is proposed in the paper. Firstly, to solve the hysteresis and eccentric load problem in tension sensing, and to extent the dynamic response range, an ‘S’ type elastic element structure with flanges was proposed. Then, a tension experiment was carried out to demonstrate the dynamic response characteristics. Moreover, the designed tension sensor was stretched continuously for 30 min to observe its long time stability. Last but not the least, the sensor was mounted on a 70 m conductor model, and the conductor was oscillated at different frequencies to investigate the dynamic performance of the sensor. The experimental results demonstrate the sensor is suitable for the OHTL galloping detection. Compared with the conventional sensors for OHTL monitoring, the system has many advantages, such as easy installation, no flashover risk, distribution monitoring, better bandwidth, improved accuracy and higher reliability.
Communicating Gender-Equality Progress, Reduces Social Identity Threats for Women Considering a Research Career
Authors: Tellhed Una , Jansson Anna
Published: January 2018

Since the majority of top-level researchers are men, how does this vertical gender-segregation affect students’ perceptions of a research career? In the current study, an experimental manipulation either reminded students of academia’s current dominance of men or of its improving gender-balance. The results showed that women primed with the dominance of men anticipated much higher social identity threats (e.g., fear of discrimination) in a future research career as compared to a control group. In contrast, women primed with the improving gender-balance anticipated much lower threat. Further, the dominance of men prime increased men’s interest in the PhD program, as compared to controls. Women’s interest was unaffected by the prime, but their lower interest as compared to men’s across conditions was mediated by their lower research self-efficacy (i.e., competence beliefs). The results imply that communicating gender-equality progress may allow women to consider a career in research without the barrier of social identity threat.
Independent R and D, Technology Introduction, and Green Growth in China’s Manufacturing
Authors: Cheng Zhonghua , Li Wenwen
Published: January 2018

An analysis of not only the effects of independent research and development (R and D), but also of the effects of the introduction of domestic and foreign technology on the growth of green manufacturing, can help China achieve the green transformation of manufacturing. In this paper we first use a non-directional distance function (NDDF) and meta-frontier methods to calculate a green growth index. Then, using 2003 to 2015 manufacturing panel data, we empirically test the effects of three different types of R and D investment on the green growth of China’s manufacturing. The regression results show that there is significant industrial heterogeneity in the effects of independent R and D, in the introduction of domestic technology and in the introduction of foreign technology on the green growth of China’s manufacturing. Independent R and D is conducive to the green growth of the three types of technological industries, but the contribution of independent R and D to green growth has gradually weakened with improvements in industrial technology. Domestic technology introduction is conducive to green growth in low and middle-technology industries, but its effect on high-technology industries is not significant. On the other hand, foreign technology introduction is conducive to the green growth of middle and high-technology industries, but its effect on low-technology industries is not significant.
Efficient Data Hiding Based on Block Truncation Coding Using Pixel Pair Matching Technique
Authors: Hong Wien
Published: January 2018

In this paper, an efficient data hiding method that embeds data into absolute moment block truncation coding (AMBTC) codes is proposed. The AMBTC method represents image blocks by trios, and each trio consists of two quantization levels and an asymmetrically distributed bitmap. However, the asymmetric phenomena of bitmaps cause large degradation in image quality during data embedment. With the help of reference tables filled with symmetrical patterns, the proposed method exploits a symmetry adjustment model to modify the quantization levels in those smooth blocks to achieve the smallest distortion. If the block is complex, a lossless embedding method is performed to carry one additional bit. A sophisticated division switching mechanism is also proposed to modify a block from smooth to complex if the solution to the minimal distortion cannot be found. The payload can be adjusted by varying the threshold, or by embedding more bits into the quantization levels. The experiments indicate that the proposed work provides the best stego image quality under various payloads when comparing to the related prior works.
Cross-Analysis of Land and Runoff Variations in Response to Urbanization on Basin, Watershed, and City Scales with/without Green Infrastructures
Authors: Fu Jin-Cheng , Jang Jiun-Huei , Huang Chun-Mao , Lin Wen-Yen , Yeh Chia-Cheng
Published: January 2018

Evaluating land and runoff variations caused by urbanization is crucial to ensure the safety of people living in highly developed areas. Based on spatial scales, runoff analysis involves different methods associated with the interpretation of land cover and land use, the application of hydrological models, and the consideration of flood mitigation measures. Most studies have focused on analyzing the phenomenon on a certain scale by using a single data source and a specific model without discussing mutual influences. In this study, the runoff changes caused by urbanization are assessed and cross-analyzed on three sizes of study areas in the Zhuoshui River Basin in Taiwan, including basin (large), watershed (medium), and city (small) scales. The results demonstrate that, on the basin scale, land-cover changes interpreted from satellite images are very helpful for identifying the watersheds with urbanization hotspots that might have larger runoff outputs. However, on the watershed scale, the resolution of the land-cover data is too low, and land-cover data should be replaced by investigated land-use data for sophisticated hydrological modeling. The mixed usage of land-cover and land-use data is not recommended because large discrepancies occur when determining hydrological parameters for runoff simulation. According to present and future land-use scenarios, the influence of urbanization on runoff is simulated by HEC-1 and SWMM on watershed and city scales, respectively. The results of both models are in agreement and show that runoff peaks will obviously increase as a result of urbanization from 2008 to 2030. For low return periods, the increase in runoff as a result of urbanization is more significant and the city’s contribution to runoff is much larger than its area. Through statistical regression, the watershed runoff simulated by HEC-1 can be perfectly predicted by the city runoff simulated by SWMM in combination with other land/rainfall parameters. On the city scale, the installation of LID satisfactorily reduces the runoff peaks to pre-urbanization levels for low return periods, but the effects of LID are not as positive and are debatable for higher return periods. These findings can be used to realize the applicability and limitations of different approaches for analyzing and mitigating urbanization-induced runoff in the process of constructing a sponge city.
Un atlas du Grand Genève
Authors: Hussy Charles
Published: January 2018

Considering first the conditions of the negotiating the definitive profile of de Republic of Geneva, the Atlas du Grand Genève considers the three dimensions of sustainability : environment, human conditions, economical performance.
Des fortifications aux boulevards. Les débats sur l'agrandissement de Genève (1800-1850)
Authors: Lelarge Astrid
Published: January 2018

Under pressure from increasing urbanisation, fundamental political, social and economic changes, the city of Geneva is animated by intense debates on city expansion in the 19th century. Because the city is enclosed by fortifications indicating the military, administrative, tax and symbolic town boundary in the first part of the century, the issue is closely related to that of opening, which involves the destruction of a very important urban form for the identity of the city. It is in this context that emerges the project for the construction of a replacement form, a concentric road called boulevards.
In Vivo Evaluation of Biodegradability and Biocompatibility of Fe30Mn Alloy
Authors: Heiden Michael , Stanciu Lia , Nauman Eric , Jones-Hall Yava , Breur Gert , Traverson Marine
Published: January 2018

Objectives This study aims to evaluate the biodegradability and biocompatibility of an alloy of iron and manganese (Fe30Mn) in a bone model in vivo.

Methods Resorption of a Fe30Mn wire was compared with traditional permanent 316L stainless steel (SS) wire after bilateral transcondylar femoral implantation in 12 rats. Evaluation of biodegradation over 6 months was performed using radiography, post-mortem histology and microscopic implant surface analysis.

Results Corrosion and resorption of the novel iron-manganese implant with formation of an iron oxide corrosion layer was noted on all post-mortem histological sections and macroscopic specimens (corrosion fraction of 0.84 and 0 for Fe30Mn and 316L SS, respectively). Increased bone ongrowth was observed at the wire-bone interface (bone ongrowth fraction of 0.61 and 0.34 for Fe30Mn and 316L SS, respectively). Occasionally, poorly stained newly formed bone and necrotic bone in contact with corrosion was seen. In bone marrow, Fe30Mn alloy was scored as a mild local irritant compared with 316L SS (biocompatibility score of 8.8 and 5.3, respectively). There was no evidence of systemic adverse reaction.

Clinical Significance Resorbable iron-manganese alloys may offer a promising alternative to permanent metallic implants. Further in vivo studies to control implant resorption at a rate suitable for fracture healing and to confirm the biocompatibility and biosafety of the resorbable Fe30Mn metallic implant are necessary prior to use in clinical settings.
Comparison of Three Methods to Quantify Laxity in the Canine Hip Joint
Authors: Vezzoni Aldo , Bogaerts Evelien , Bertal Mileva , Bosmans Tim , Stock Emmelie , Deforce Dieter , Peelman Luc , Saunders Jimmy , Broeckx Bart
Published: January 2018

Objectives Comparison of PennHIP and a novel method to diagnose hip laxity, called the Vezzoni modified Badertscher distension device technique.

Methods In a total of 10 dogs, it was first assessed whether the distraction index (DI) from the PennHIP evaluation center could be reproduced by two individual observers. In the next two steps, the DI measurements made by the individual observers and the PennHIP evaluation center were compared with the laxity index (LI) measured on the Vezzoni modified Badertscher distension device view. Finally, the interobserver agreement of the DI, LI and Norberg angle was assessed and compared with classification criteria.

Results The results were similar for the first three comparisons: there was no evidence for bias, the relation between DI and LI was linear and the variability was small. A comparison of the interobserver agreement showed that the measurement variability for the NA was substantial, while the reproducibility for the DI and LI was equal.

Clinical Significance While the standard ventrodorsal hip extended radiograph is most commonly used for diagnosis and screening of canine hip dysplasia, it lacks sensitivity to diagnose laxity. To improve the identification of hip joint laxity, distraction-based radiographic techniques are helpful. The Vezzoni modified Badertscher distension device technique allows for a reliable in-house evaluation of canine hip joint laxity.
Review: Electrostatically actuated nanobeam-based nanoelectromechanical switches – materials solutions and operational conditions
Authors: Jasulaneca Liga , Kosmaca Jelena , Meija Raimonds , Andzane Jana , Erts Donats
Published: January 2018

This review summarizes relevant research in the field of electrostatically actuated nanobeam-based nanoelectromechanical (NEM) switches. The main switch architectures and structural elements are briefly described and compared. Investigation methods that allow for exploring coupled electromechanical interactions as well as studies of mechanically or electrically induced effects are covered. An examination of the complex nanocontact behaviour during various stages of the switching cycle is provided. The choice of the switching element and the electrode is addressed from the materials perspective, detailing the benefits and drawbacks for each. An overview of experimentally demonstrated NEM switching devices is provided, and together with their operational parameters, the reliability issues and impact of the operating environment are discussed. Finally, the most common NEM switch failure modes and the physical mechanisms behind them are reviewed and solutions proposed.
The nanofluidic confinement apparatus: studying confinement-dependent nanoparticle behavior and diffusion
Authors: Fringes Stefan , Holzner Felix , Knoll Armin W
Published: January 2018

The behavior of nanoparticles under nanofluidic confinement depends strongly on their distance to the confining walls; however, a measurement in which the gap distance is varied is challenging. Here, we present a versatile setup for investigating the behavior of nanoparticles as a function of the gap distance, which is controlled to the nanometer. The setup is designed as an open system that operates with a small amount of dispersion of ≈20 μL, permits the use of coated and patterned samples and allows high-numerical-aperture microscopy access. Using the tool, we measure the vertical position (termed height) and the lateral diffusion of 60 nm, charged, Au nanospheres as a function of confinement between a glass surface and a polymer surface. Interferometric scattering detection provides an effective particle illumination time of less than 30 μs, which results in lateral and vertical position detection accuracy ≈10 nm for diffusing particles. We found the height of the particles to be consistently above that of the gap center, corresponding to a higher charge on the polymer substrate. In terms of diffusion, we found a strong monotonic decay of the diffusion constant with decreasing gap distance. This result cannot be explained by hydrodynamic effects, including the asymmetric vertical position of the particles in the gap. Instead we attribute it to an electroviscous effect. For strong confinement of less than 120 nm gap distance, we detect the onset of subdiffusion, which can be correlated to the motion of the particles along high-gap-distance paths.
Benefits of Compression Amplification in Telephone Bluetooth-Assistive Listening Devices for People with Hearing Loss
Authors: Luo Ching-Hsing , Chang Hung-Yue , Lo Tun-Shin , Tai Cheng-Chi
Published: January 2018

Background:Telephone conversation is one of the main scenarios where people with hearing loss require assistive listening devices (ALDs). Such people experience the greatest degree of difficulty during phone conversations in noisy environments.Purpose:This study compared
the benefits of a linear scheme with a compression amplification scheme fitted with a prescription for sloping-type hearing loss implemented in a Bluetooth ALD in quiet and noisy environments.Research Design:Word recognition scores (WRSs) for the Mandarin monosyllable recognition test
(MMRT) and participants’ satisfaction ratings were measured to serve as objective and subjective results, respectively.Study Sample:Twelve native Mandarin speakers aged 27‐68 yr with mild to moderate sensorineural hearing loss participated in this study.Intervention:A
compression amplification scheme with a prescription in maximizing speech intelligibility for sloping-type hearing loss was implemented in a Bluetooth ALD.Data Collection and Analysis:The MMRT WRSs of participants wearing the Bluetooth ALD were collected. Each test was conducted in
a soundproof booth under quiet and 65-dBA speech noise environments. Each participant completed a satisfaction questionnaire administered by an audiologist. The collected WRSs were examined using analyses of variance and the satisfaction ratings were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed rank tests.Results:The
mean MMRT WRSs of the compression amplification scheme were significantly higher than those of the linear scheme (57% and 53% higher in quiet and noisy environments, respectively). The mean satisfaction ratings of both schemes were between neutral and satisfied in the quiet environment, whereas
in the noisy environment, the participants were more satisfied with the compression scheme than the linear scheme.Conclusions:The results demonstrate the effective benefits of the compression amplification scheme fitted with a prescription in maximizing speech intelligibility for sloping-type
hearing loss implemented in a Bluetooth ALD for people with mild to moderate hearing loss.
Genetic Analysis of Gossypium Fiber Quality Traits in Reciprocal Advanced Backcross Populations
Authors: Chandnani Rahul , Kim Changsoo , Guo Hui , Shehzad Tariq , Wallace Jason G. , He Daohua , Zhang Zhengsheng , Patel Jinesh D. , Adhikari Jeevan , Khanal Sameer , Paterson Andrew H.
Published: January 2018

In mapping populations segregating for many loci, the large amount of variation among genotypes often masks small‐effect quantitative trait loci (QTL). This problem can be reduced by development of populations with fewer chromosome segments segregating. Here, we report early QTL detection in reciprocal advanced backcross populations from crosses between elite Gossypium hirsutum L. ‘Acala Maxxa’ (GH) and G. barbadense L. ‘Pima S6’ (GB). A total of 297 BC4F1 and BC4F2 progeny rows—127 segregating for GB chromosome segments in GH background and 170 segregating for GH chromosome segments in GB background—were evaluated in three environments. Totals of 3186 and 3026 polymorphic single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in GH and GB backgrounds, respectively, were identified and used for trait mapping. Small‐effect QTL (<10% variance explained) made up 87 and 100% of QTL in GH and GB backgrounds, respectively. In both species, favorable alleles were found with effects being masked or neutralized by unfavorable alleles, with greater scope for improvement of GH than GB by introgressive breeding. A total of three stable QTL—two in GH background for fiber elongation (ELO) and micronaire (MIC) and one in GB background for upper‐half mean length (UHM)—were identified in two out of three environments. Curiously, only four QTL—three for UHM and one for ELO—showed the expected opposite effects in reciprocal backgrounds, perhaps reflecting the combined consequences of epistasis, small phenotypic effects, and low coverage of some genomic regions. Along with new information for marker‐assisted breeding, this study adds to knowledge that can be used to unravel complex genetic networks governing fiber quality traits.
Genome‐Wide Association Analysis of Grain Yield‐Associated Traits in a Pan‐European Barley Cultivar Collection
Authors: Xu Xin , Sharma Rajiv , Tondelli Alessandro , Russell Joanne , Comadran Jordi , Schnaithmann Florian , Pillen Klaus , Kilian Benjamin , Cattivelli Luigi , Thomas William T. B. , Flavell Andrew J.
Published: January 2018

A collection of 379 Hordeum vulgare cultivars, comprising all combinations of spring and winter growth habits with two and six row ear type, was screened by genome wide association analysis to discover alleles controlling traits related to grain yield. Genotypes were obtained at 6,810 segregating gene‐based single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci and corresponding field trial data were obtained for eight traits related to grain yield at four European sites in three countries over two growth years. The combined data were analyzed and statistically significant associations between the traits and regions of the barley genomes were obtained. Combining this information with the high resolution gene map for barley allowed the identification of candidate genes underlying all scored traits and superposition of this information with the known genomics of grain trait genes in rice resulted in the assignation of 13 putative barley genes controlling grain traits in European cultivated barley. Several of these genes are associated with grain traits in both winter and spring barley.
Spatially Resolved Sub-millimeter Continuum Imaging of Neptune with ALMA
Authors: Iino Takahiro , Yamada Takayoshi
Published: January 2018

This paper reports the result of spatially resolved 646 GHz sub-millimeter imaging observation of Neptune obtained by the Atacama Large Millimeter and sub-millimeter Array. The observation was performed in 2012 August as the flux calibration and synthesized beam size were small enough to resolve Neptune’s disk at this time. This analysis aims to constrain the vertical structure of deep and upper-tropospheric South polar hot spot detected previously with mid-IR, millimeter, and centimeter wavelength. The probed atmospheric pressure region estimated by the radiative-transfer method was between 1.0 and 0.6 bar for the nadir and South pole views, respectively. The South polar hot spot was not detected clearly with an uncertainty of 2.1 K. The apparent discontinuity of tropospheric and stratospheric hot spot may be caused by the vertical wind shear of South polar zonal jet.