bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wound intensity correction and segmentation with convolutional neural networks
Authors: Lu Huimin , Li Bin , Zhu Junwu , Li Yujie , Li Yun , Xu Xing , He Li , Li Xin , Li Jianru , Serikawa Seiichi
Published: August 2016

Wound area changes over multiple weeks are highly predictive of the wound healing process. A big data eHealth system would be very helpful in evaluating these changes. We usually analyze images of the wound bed for diagnosing injury. Unfortunately, accurate measurements of wound region changes from images are difficult. Many factors affect the quality of images, such as intensity inhomogeneity and color distortion. To this end, we propose a fast level set model‐based method for intensity inhomogeneity correction and a spectral properties‐based color correction method to overcome these obstacles. State‐of‐the‐art level set methods can segment objects well. However, such methods are time‐consuming and inefficient. In contrast to conventional approaches, the proposed model integrates a new signed energy force function that can detect contours at weak or blurred edges efficiently. It ensures the smoothness of the level set function and reduces the computational complexity of re‐initialization. To increase the speed of the algorithm further, we also include an additive operator‐splitting algorithm in our fast level set model. In addition, we consider using a camera, lighting, and spectral properties to recover the actual color. Numerical synthetic and real‐world images demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method over state‐of‐the‐art methods. Experimental results also show that the proposed model is at least twice as fast as methods used widely. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Airport noise predicts song timing of European birds
Authors: Dominoni Davide M. , Greif Stefan , Nemeth Erwin , Brumm Henrik
Published: August 2016

Anthropogenic noise is of increasing concern to biologists and medical scientists. Its detrimental effects on human health have been well studied, with the high noise levels from air traffic being of particular concern. However, less is known about the effects of airport noise pollution on signal masking in wild animals. Here, we report a relationship between aircraft noise and two major features of the singing behavior of birds. We found that five of ten songbird species began singing significantly earlier in the morning in the vicinity of a major European airport than their conspecifics at a quieter control site. As birds at both sites started singing before the onset of air traffic in the morning, this suggests that the birds in the vicinity of the airport advanced their activity to gain more time for unimpaired singing before the massive plane noise set in. In addition, we found that during the day, chaffinches avoided singing during airplane takeoffs, but only when the noise exceeded a certain threshold, further suggesting that the massive noise caused by the airport can impair acoustic communication in birds. Overall, our study indicates that birds may be adjusting their mating signals and time budgets in response to aircraft noise.
Ecosystem management in transition in central and eastern europe: the need for a vision
Authors: Vačkář David , Báldi András
Published: August 2016

It is well established that in current human‐dominated world, environmental change is closely coupled with socioeconomic factors, and this is reflected in conceptual frameworks of important policies (Díaz et al. 2015). Humans are adversely …
Enhancing enzyme hydrolysis of Sorghum stalk by CO2‐pressurized liquid hot water pretreatment
Authors: Zhao Meng‐Jiao , Xu Qin‐Qin , Zhen Meng‐Yuan , Li Guo‐Min , Gang‐Xu  , Yin Jian‐Zhong
Published: August 2016

CO2‐pressurized liquid hot water was applied to pretreat Sorghum stalk to increase its accessibility for enzyme hydrolysis. Pretreatment temperatures tested ranged from 180 to 220°C, and reaction times varied between 10 and 30 min. The highest total reducing sugar yield of 81.54% was obtained for the sample pretreated at 200°C and 20 min. Different from the N2‐pressurized liquid hot water process, the generated carbonic acid in the CO2‐pressurized method acted as catalyst in the pretreatment process. It was found that the reducing sugar yield increased significantly at lower temperature and shorter reaction time with the addition of CO2. Finally, X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscope analysis were used to investigate the microstructure of the Sorghum stalk before and after the pretreatment. © 2016 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 36: 208–213, 2017
Optimizing land use for the delivery of catchment ecosystem services
Authors: Doody Donnacha G , Withers Paul JA , Dils Rachael M , McDowell Richard W , Smith Val , McElarney Yvonne R , Dunbar Mike , Daly Donal
Published: August 2016

Despite widespread implementation of best management practices, sustainable farming is neither practical nor possible in certain locations, where protecting water quality and promoting agricultural production are likely to be incompatible. Some strategic prioritization of land‐use options and acceptance of continually degraded waterbodies may be required to ensure optimization of multiple ecosystem services in catchments (also known as watersheds or drainage basins). We examine approaches to prioritization and propose catchment buffering capacity as a concept to manage the pressure–impact relationship between land use and aquatic ecosystems. Catchment buffering capacity can be considered as a continuum of biogeochemical, hydrological, and ecological catchment properties that define this relationship. Here, we outline a conceptual framework to assist prioritization: (1) establish a water‐quality target, (2) quantify the gap in compliance to achieve the desired target, (3) assess catchment sensitivity to change, and (4) determine the adaptive capacity of catchment communities to reach the target.
Marine microplastic debris: a targeted plan for understanding and quantifying interactions with marine life
Authors: Clark James R , Cole Matthew , Lindeque Penelope K , Fileman Elaine , Blackford Jeremy , Lewis Ceri , Lenton Timothy M , Galloway Tamara S
Published: August 2016

Microscopic plastic (microplastic) debris is a marine pollutant that threatens aquatic biota and ecosystems. Microplastics have been detected throughout the world's oceans; however, the relative importance of different processes that control the spatial distribution and long‐term fate of microplastics in the marine environment remains largely unknown. Results from laboratory and field studies indicate that interactions between microplastic debris and marine organisms may play an important role in redistributing plastic in the oceans. We provide an overview of the various mechanisms through which marine life and microplastics can interact. By considering coupled physical–biological processes, we also identify regions where these interactions are most likely to occur, and outline a new research agenda that aims to determine their prevalence in the marine environment. We hypothesize that biological interactions are key to understanding the movement, impact, and fate of microplastics in the oceans.
ECO2N V2.0: A TOUGH2 fluid property module for modeling CO2‐H2O‐NACL systems to elevated temperatures of up to 300°C
Authors: Pan Lehua , Spycher Nicolas , Doughty Christine , Pruess Karsten
Published: August 2016

We have improved ECO2N, the TOUGH2 fluid property module of the CO2‐H2O‐NaCl system. The major enhancements include: (i) the upper temperature limit is increased from 110 to about 300°C; (ii) the thermophysical properties of the CO2‐rich phase are more accurately calculated as a non‐ideal mixture of CO2 and H2O; (iii) the approach to calculate the specific enthalpy of dissolved CO2 has been improved to make the code more robust in modeling phase transitions under non‐isothermal conditions; and (iv) more sophisticated models for effective heat conductivity of formations saturated with supercritical CO2 have been provided. The new module includes a comprehensive description of the thermodynamic and thermophysical properties of H2ONaClCO2 mixtures, that reproduces fluid properties largely within experimental error for the temperature, pressure and salinity conditions 10°C < T < 300°C, P < 600 bar, and salinity up to halite saturation. This includes density, viscosity, and specific enthalpy of fluid phases as functions of temperature, pressure, and composition, as well as partitioning of mass components H2O, NaCl and CO2 among the different phases. ECO2N with the TOUGH2 reservoir simulator can be applied to a wide range of problems in geologic sequestration of CO2 in saline aquifers, and in enhanced geothermal reservoirs. ECO2N can describe both sub‐ and supercritical states of CO2, but applications that involve subcritical conditions are limited to systems in which there is no change of phase between liquid and gaseous CO2, and in which no mixtures of liquid and gaseous CO2 occur. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NODDI reproducibility and variability with magnetic field strength: A comparison between 1.5 T and 3 T
Authors: Chung Ai Wern , Seunarine Kiran K. , Clark Chris A.
Published: August 2016

Diffusion models are advantageous for examining brain microstructure non‐invasively and their validation is important for transference into the clinical domain. Neurite Orientation Dispersion and Density Imaging (NODDI) is a promising model for estimating multiple diffusion compartments from MRI data acquired in a clinically feasible time. As a relatively new model, it is necessary to examine NODDI under certain experimental conditions, such as change in magnetic field‐strength, and assess it in relation to diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), an established model that is largely understood by the neuroimaging community. NODDI measures (intracellular volume fraction, νic, and orientation distribution, OD) were compared with DTI at 1.5 and 3 T data in healthy adults in whole‐brain tissue masks and regions of white‐ and deep grey‐matter. Within‐session reproducibility and between‐subject differences of NODDI with field‐strength were also investigated. Field‐strength had a significant effect on NODDI measures, suggesting careful interpretation of results from data acquired at 1.5 and 3 T. It was demonstrated that NODDI is feasible at 1.5 T, but with lower νic in white‐matter regions compared with 3 T. Furthermore, the advantages of NODDI over DTI in a region of complex microstructure were shown. Specifically, in the centrum‐semiovale where FA is typically as low as in grey‐matter, νic was comparable to other white‐matter regions yet accompanied by an OD similar to deep grey‐matter. In terms of reproducibility, NODDI measures varied more than DTI. It may be that NODDI is more susceptible to noisier parameter estimates when compared with DTI, conversely it may have greater sensitivity to true within‐ and between‐subject heterogeneity. Hum Brain Mapp 37:4550–4565, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Psychophysiological whole‐brain network clustering based on connectivity dynamics analysis in naturalistic conditions
Authors: Raz Gal , Shpigelman Lavi , Jacob Yael , Gonen Tal , Benjamini Yoav , Hendler Talma
Published: August 2016

We introduce a novel method for delineating context‐dependent functional brain networks whose connectivity dynamics are synchronized with the occurrence of a specific psychophysiological process of interest. In this method of context‐related network dynamics analysis (CRNDA), a continuous psychophysiological index serves as a reference for clustering the whole‐brain into functional networks. We applied CRNDA to fMRI data recorded during the viewing of a sadness‐inducing film clip. The method reliably demarcated networks in which temporal patterns of connectivity related to the time series of reported emotional intensity. Our work successfully replicated the link between network connectivity and emotion rating in an independent sample group for seven of the networks. The demarcated networks have clear common functional denominators. Three of these networks overlap with distinct empathy‐related networks, previously identified in distinct sets of studies. The other networks are related to sensorimotor processing, language, attention, and working memory. The results indicate that CRNDA, a data‐driven method for network clustering that is sensitive to transient connectivity patterns, can productively and reliably demarcate networks that follow psychologically meaningful processes.Hum Brain Mapp 37:4654–4672, 2016. ©2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of cartilaginous matrix components on the chondrogenesis and hypertrophy of mesenchymal stem cells in hyaluronic acid hydrogels
Authors: Zhu Meiling , Feng Qian , Sun Yuxin , Li Gang , Bian Liming
Published: August 2016

The microenvironment of the extracellular matrix (ECM) plays a key role in directing the viability and subsequent differentiation of the encapsulated stem cells by the specific integration between the hydrated biomolecules and cell surface receptors. Herein, we developed a hydrogel platform based on hyaluronic acid (HA) that presents cartilage ECM molecules as a form of developmental cues. The hybrid hydrogels were generated by coupling photo‐cross‐linkable methacrylated HA (MeHA) with selected cartilaginous ECM molecules including chondroitin sulfate (CS) and type I collagen (Col I), and we studied the decoupled function of these cues in regulating the initial chondrogenesis, subsequent hypertrophy, and tissue mineralization by hMSCs. The results indicate upregulated mRNA expression of the chondrogenesis markers in the HA hydrogels that contain Col I or CS, and decreased expression of the hypertrophic markers compared with the control MeHA group. The quantification results also show that glycosaminoglycans accumulation increases in the hybrid hydrogels containing cartilaginous ECM molecules, both in vitro and in vivo. We hypothesize that these additional ECM components in the HA hydrogels further regulate the hMSCs chondrogenesis and hypertrophy by coordination. The understanding obtained in this study may guide biomaterial scaffold design, thereby facilitating manipulation of the differentiation and mineralization of induced hMSCs for application in the repair of different musculoskeletal defects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2292–2300, 2017.
Evidence for the Propositions of the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide Among a Military Sample
Authors: Silva Caroline , Hagan Christopher R. , Rogers Megan L. , Chiurliza Bruno , Podlogar Matthew C. , Hom Melanie A. , Tzoneva Mirela , Lim Ingrid C. , Joiner Thomas E.
Published: August 2016

Objective

Although the interpersonal theory of suicide may explain the elevated suicide risk among military service members, past explorations have been equivocal. This study aimed to investigate the propositions of the interpersonal theory in a sample of U.S. Army recruiters.

Method

Participants (N = 3,428) completed self‐report measures assessing the interpersonal theory's constructs (i.e., thwarted belongingness (TB), perceived burdensomeness (PB), acquired capability for suicide), current suicidal ideation, agitation, and insomnia. History of depression was obtained from medical records.

Results

Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that the interaction between TB and PB was associated with current suicidal ideation, controlling for depression, agitation, and insomnia. This effect was especially notable among those with high capability for suicide.

Conclusion

Findings provide support for the interpersonal theory in a large, diverse military sample. It may be advantageous to assess and therapeutically address TB and PB among at‐risk service members.
Ceramide lipids in alive and thermally stressed mussels: an investigation by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization Fourier transform mass spectrometry
Authors: Facchini Laura , Losito Ilario , Cataldi Tommaso R.I. , Palmisano Francesco
Published: August 2016

Hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography coupled to electrospray ionization‐Fourier transform mass spectrometry was employed to study ceramide lipids occurring in mussels of sp. Mytilus galloprovincialis. Lipid extracts from alive mussels and mussels deliberately subjected to specific thermal treatments were analyzed. In particular, single and tandem MS measurements were performed on a hybrid quadrupole‐Orbitrap mass spectrometer and then complemented by MSn analyses (n = 2, 3) achieved by a linear ion trap mass spectrometer. This approach enabled the characterization of 66 ceramide lipids, encompassing ceramide phosphoethanolamines (CPE), ceramide aminoethylphosphonates (CAEP) and N‐monomethylated CAEP. The sphingoid and acyl chains of each ceramide lipid could be distinctly recognized in terms of numbers of carbon atoms and C=C bonds, and indications on the possible location of the latter on the sphingoid chain could be often inferred from fragmentation patterns. The occurrence of several species hydroxylated on the α carbon of the acyl chain was also discovered. On the other hand, the sphingoid chain of ceramide lipids was never found to be involved in oxidation processes, unless forced exposure of the mussel lipid extracts to atmospheric oxygen was performed. CPE(d19:3/16:0) and its hydroxylated form, CPE(d19:3/2‐OH‐16:0), were found to be the prevailing species among CPE, whereas CAEP(d18:2/16:0), CAEP(d19:3/16:0) and CAEP(d19:3/2‐OH‐16:0) were the most abundant CAEP. Finally, ceramide lipids showed a remarkably higher stability, compared with glycerophospholipids, in mussels subjected to different thermal treatments. This finding opens interesting perspectives on the role of ceramide‐based lipids in the adaptation of aquatic organisms to thermal stresses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rotavirus epidemiology and surveillance before vaccine introduction in Argentina, 2012–2014
Authors: Degiuseppe Juan Ignacio , Reale Ezequiel Agustín , Stupka Juan Andrés ,   Argentine Rotavirus Surveillance Network
Published: August 2016

Group A Rotavirus has been widely described as one of the most important infantile diarrheal pathogens worldwide. In Argentina, it is responsible for over 200,000 acute diarrhea cases and from 30 to 50 deaths annually in children under 5 years. The aim of this study is to analyze frequency, seasonality, age group distribution, and circulating genotypes based on data notified in the 2012–2014 period and in turn to assess the pre‐vaccine scenario, considering that rotavirus vaccine was introduced in 2015. Data were taken from the Viral Diarrhea Notification module of the Argentine SNVS‐SIVILA surveillance tool. Analyses of circulating genotypes were performed on rotavirus‐positive stool specimens by conventional binary characterization of the outermost capsid genes. Overall data showed rotavirus detection in about 25% of samples tested, and higher rates in children under 2 years old were observed. Rotavirus positive cases were distributed according to a typical winter seasonal pattern. A heterogeneous regional pattern of prevalence was also observed, with higher rates detected in the North region. Genotype co‐circulation and annual fluctuation were observed. In general, G1P[8], G2P[4], G3P[8], and G12P[8] were the most frequently detected genotypes. This study represents the last survey taken of a population considered to be naïve. J. Med. Virol. 89:423–428, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Seasonal predictive skill of intraseasonal synoptic type variability over the Cape south coast of South Africa by making use of the Met Office Global Seasonal Forecast System 5
Authors: Engelbrecht Christien J. , Landman Willem A. , Graham Richard , McLean Peter
Published: August 2016

The skill in predicting intraseasonal characteristics of synoptic type occurrences at the seasonal time scale over the all‐year rainfall region of South Africa (35°–33°S and 21°–27°E) is assessed by utilizing an ensemble of simulations performed using the GloSea5 coupled ocean–atmosphere model. Hindcasts of daily sea‐level pressure fields of 14 austral spring [September–October–November (SON)] and summer [December–January–February (DJF)] seasons, initialized in August and November, respectively, are analysed. The skill assessment is achieved through the use of self‐organizing maps. Deterministic and probabilistic assessment of synoptic type frequency forecasts indicate that intraseasonal circulation variability over the Cape south coast region is marginally predictable at seasonal time scales, more so during SON than DJF. In particular, the results obtained demonstrate that there is potential for the skillful seasonal prediction of the anomalous frequency of occurrence of high‐impact rainfall events associated with cut‐off lows within SON seasons.
A Straightforward Estimation of Activation and Deactivation Parameters for ATRP Systems from Actual Polymerization Rate and Molecular Weight Distribution Data
Authors: Mastan Erlita , Zhu Shiping
Published: August 2016

The accuracy of a model prediction relies heavily on the quality of the parameters used. Some of the available methods to estimate the activation and deactivation rate constants in atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) are done in the absence of monomer, hence they may not be representative of the polymerization conditions. Others offer great accuracy but requires data that are not commonly measured in experiments. In this study, a simple method is proposed to estimate activation and deactivation rate constants through correlating the recently reported theoretical equations with experimental data of monomer conversion and polymer molecular weight dispersity. The kinetics and dispersity equations used are straightforward and explicit, thus can be easily calculated. Only two parameters (activation and deactivation rate constant) are involved in the correlation of two data sets without any other adjustable parameters. In addition, the experimental data required are some of the most often measured quantities in polymerization, thus no additional experiments or measurements are required. Since the conversion and dispersity are obtained from actual polymerization, the reaction rate constants estimated are representative of the real reaction conditions. The applicability of this method is demonstrated by estimating parameters using reported experimental data of ATRP of methyl methacrylate conducted at various conditions.

image
Dominant‐negative mutation p.Arg324Thr in KCNA1 impairs Kv1.1 channel function in episodic ataxia
Authors: Tristán‐Clavijo Enriqueta , Scholl Francisco G. , Macaya Alfons , Iglesias Gemma , Rojas Ana M. , Lucas Miguel , Castellano Antonio , Martinez‐Mir Amalia
Published: August 2016

Background

Episodic ataxia type 1 is a rare autosomal dominant neurological disorder caused by mutations in the KCNA1 gene that encodes the α subunit of voltage‐gated potassium channel Kv1.1. The functional consequences of identified mutations on channel function do not fully correlate with the clinical phenotype of patients.

Methods

A clinical and genetic study was performed in a family with 5 patients with episodic ataxia type 1, with concurrent epilepsy in 1 of them. Protein expression, modeling, and electrophysiological analyses were performed to study Kv1.1 function.

Results

Whole‐genome linkage and candidate gene analyses revealed the novel heterozygous mutation p.Arg324Thr in the KCNA1 gene. The encoded mutant Kv1.1 channel displays reduced currents and altered activation and inactivation.

Conclusions

Taken together, we provide genetic and functional evidence that mutation p.Arg324Thr in the KCNA1 gene is pathogenic and results in episodic ataxia type 1 through a dominant‐negative effect. © 2016 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Automated eye blink detection and correction method for clinical MR eye imaging
Authors: Wezel Joep , Garpebring Anders , Webb Andrew G. , van Osch Matthias J.P. , Beenakker Jan‐Willem M.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

To implement an on‐line monitoring system to detect eye blinks during ocular MRI using field probes, and to reacquire corrupted k‐space lines by means of an automatic feedback system integrated with the MR scanner.

Methods

Six healthy subjects were scanned on a 7 Tesla MRI whole‐body system using a custom‐built receive coil. Subjects were asked to blink multiple times during the MR‐scan. The local magnetic field changes were detected with an external fluorine‐based field probe which was positioned close to the eye. The eye blink produces a field shift greater than a threshold level, this was communicated in real‐time to the MR system which immediately reacquired the motion‐corrupted k‐space lines.

Results

The uncorrected images, using the original motion‐corrupted data, showed severe artifacts, whereas the corrected images, using the reacquired data, provided an image quality similar to images acquired without blinks.

Conclusion

Field probes can successfully detect eye blinks during MRI scans. By automatically reacquiring the eye blink‐corrupted data, high quality MR‐images of the eye can be acquired. Magn Reson Med 78:165–171, 2017. © 2016 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
Electromagnetic interference shielding properties of wood–plastic composites filled with graphene decorated carbon fiber
Authors: Chen Juan , Teng Zhaoyang , Zhao Yueying , Liu Wenxiu
Published: August 2016

Carbon fiber (CF), graphene oxide (GO)‐deposited CF (GO‐CF), and reduced GO‐deposited CF (rGO‐CF) were introduced into wood plastic composite (WPC). The electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) of WPC in the X‐band region (8.2–12.4 GHz) was studied. The results showed that GO‐CF and rGO‐CF were more effective than CF in improving EMI SE of WPC. The rGO sheets were beneficial to the dispersion of CF in matrix and could build of a more effective electric network. The WPC with 4 wt% rGO‐CF and a shielding thickness of 4 mm had the SE of 29 dB. Compared with the SE of WPC with CF (23 dB), WPC with rGO‐CF had a 26% increase. The WPC filled with rGO‐CF has a promising prospect in EMI shielding materials. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:2110–2116, 2018. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers
A density functional theory investigation of the stability, aromaticity, and photophysical behavior for the highly conjugated macrocycles containing 4 pyrroles
Authors: Wei Wei , Bai Fu‐Quan , Xia Bao‐Hui , Wang Jian , Zhang Hong‐Xing
Published: August 2016

Porphyrin (Pr), porphycene (Pc), and [22]porphyrin(2.2.2.2) (P[22]) have been theoretically investigated. We design 2 highly conjugated macrocycles containing 4 pyrroles with different linkage bridges, which are named for 4 pyrrole (Pf) and methylene‐dipyrrolidine (Pm), as the theoretical model so as to investigate the stability, aromaticity, and photophysical behavior of these porphyrin derivatives, and the influence of getting or losing electron to the neutral molecule. The geometric structures of the molecules are optimized by density functional theory method. The absorptions are calculated by the time‐dependent density functional theory method. Based on the optimized structures, the nucleus‐independent chemical shifts (NICS) are calculated. The molecule with negative NICS value possesses larger highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)‐lowest occupied molecular orbital (LUMO) gap than that with positive NICS value, the molecule with bigger positive NICS value possesses smaller HOMO‐LUMO gap, and the molecule with bigger negative NICS value (in absolute value) possesses bigger HOMO‐LUMO gap. The current density indicates that the π‐electron delocalization is more effective in Pr and Pc than in Pf, Pm, and P[22] and corresponds to the stability of molecules. The absorptions of the molecules are all in the UV‐visible and infrared regions. The major transitions for most of the molecules are all from HOMO to LUMO. Compared with Pf2−, Pr2−, Pc2−, and P[22]2−, Pm2− shows distinctive photophysical properties, which is due to the reduced HOMO‐LUMO gap, structural distortion, and strong antiaromaticity.
The dye SYPRO orange binds to amylin amyloid fibrils but not pre‐fibrillar intermediates
Authors: Wong Amy G. , Raleigh Daniel P.
Published: August 2016

Amyloid deposition underlies a broad range of diseases including multiple neurodegenerative diseases, systemic amyloidosis and type‐2 diabetes. Amyloid sensitive dyes, particularly thioflavin‐T, are widely used to detect ex‐vivo amyloid deposits, to monitor amyloid formation in vitro and to follow the kinetics of amyloid self‐assembly. We show that the dye SYPRO‐orange binds to amyloid fibrils formed by human amylin, the polypeptide responsible for islet amyloid formation in type‐2 diabetes. No fluorescence enhancement is observed in the presence of pre‐fibrillar species or in the presence of non‐amyloidogenic rat amylin. The kinetics of human amylin amyloid formation can be monitored by SYPRO‐orange fluorescence and match the time course determined with thioflavin‐T assays. Thus, SYPRO‐orange offers an alternative to thioflavin‐T assays of amylin amyloid formation. The implications for the interpretation of SYPRO‐orange‐based assays of protein stability and protein‐ligand interactions are discussed.
Mechanical and microstructural properties of neutron irradiated Fe–Cr–C alloys
Authors: Konstantinović M. J. , Renterghem W. Van , Matijašević M. , Minov B. , Lambrecht M. , Toyama T. , Chiapetto M. , Malerba L.
Published: August 2016

Defect properties of neutron irradiated Fe–Cr–C alloys and their influence on the mechanical behavior are studied by combining mechanical tests, microstructural examination, and the results of models. It is found that the initial microstructure of these alloys, determined by the Cr and C concentrations, as well as by the thermal treatment, can account for different defect formation and distribution after neutron irradiation. On the basis of these results, a correlation between defect properties and macroscopic mechanical behavior is proposed.
Full characterization of a carbon nanotube parallel double quantum dot
Authors: Abulizi Gulibusitan , Baumgartner Andreas , Schönenberger Christian
Published: August 2016

We have measured the differential conductance of a parallel carbon nanotube (CNT) double quantum dot (DQD) with strong inter‐dot capacitance and inter‐dot tunnel coupling. Nominally, the device consists of a single CNT with two contacts. However, we identify two sets of Coulomb blockade (CB) diamonds that do not block transport individually, which suggest that two quantum dots (QDs) are contacted in parallel. We find strong and periodic anti‐crossings in the gate and bias dependence, which are only possible if the QDs have similar characteristics. We discuss qualitatively the level spectrum and the involved transport processes in this device and extract the DQD coupling parameters. These results lead us to believe that clean and undoped QDs are formed parallel to the CNT axis, possibly on the outer and inner shells of a multi‐wall CNT, or in a double‐stranded CNT bundle.
Optical and structural investigation of Cu2ZnSnS4 based solar cells
Authors: Teixeira Jennifer P. , Salomé Pedro M. P. , Sousa Marta G. , Fernandes Paulo A. , Sadewasser Sascha , da Cunha António F. , Leitão Joaquim P.
Published: August 2016

The structural and optical properties of two solar cells in which the CuZnSnS absorber layer was sulphurized by two different methods (S flux and graphite box), were studied. The grain sizes are dependent on the sulphurization method, the larger ones being obtained for the sulphurization in a S flux. The optical properties were investigated by photoluminescence (PL). A broad and asymmetric band was observed for the sample with the larger grains, whereas for the other one a very broad emission was obtained, mostly influenced by the CdS buffer layer. The dependence on the excitation power revealed the influence of fluctuating potentials created by strong doping and high compensation of the absorber layer. Radiative recombination channels are quite different from the ones typical of semiconductor materials with flat bands. A relationship between the PL intensity from the absorber layer measured at low temperatures, and the final PV performance is established. Thus, we propose that PL can be used as an evaluation experimental technique in order to decide if a certain absorber should be processed into a full solar cell or not.
Restnutzungsdauerberechnung eines Doppellenkerkrans
Authors: Streb Uwe , Winter Florian
Published: August 2016

Ziel dieses Artikels ist es, am Beispiel eines Doppellenkerkrans einen Betriebsfestigkeitsnachweis mit anschließender Beurteilung der voraussichtlichen Restnutzungsdauer unter der Annahme des Nennspannungskonzeptes zu führen. Um dieses vielseitige Problem zu lösen, wurde der Nachweis in mehrere Teilaufgaben gegliedert. Ein Rechenbeispiel wird anhand eines Bauteils des Kranes geführt. Für die abschließende Beurteilung der gesamten Konstruktion wird der Nachweis an acht weiteren Stellen der Konstruktion auf Basis des Rechenbeispiels geführt.

Calculation of the remaining useful life of a double jib crane. The scope of this paper is to carry out a fatigue strength analysis with subsequent assessment of the expected remaining useful life, under the assumption of the rated voltage concept, with the example of a double jib crane. To solve this problem a proof has been divided into several subtasks. A sample calculation is performed on the basis of a component of the crane. For the final assessment of the overall construction, the check is carried out at eight other locations of the construction on the basis of the calculation example.
Anwendung von Megaverbundstützen im Anlagenbau
Authors: Dürr André , Gong Fengyan
Published: August 2016

Anlagenkontruktionen im Industriebau können durchaus Bauhöhen von 150 m haben. Diese Konstruktionen werden bisher üblicherweise entweder in reiner Stahlbauweise oder in reiner Massivbauweise ausgeführt. Als Alternative hierzu können die Stützen dieser Konstruktionen aber auch in Verbundbauweise ausgeführt werden. Bei HOCHTIEF wurden in letzten Jahren zu dieser Bauweise mit betongefüllten Stahlhohlprofilen, so genannten Megaverbundstützen, umfangreiche Untersuchungen durchgeführt. Die beiden Querschnittsformen als rechteckiges oder kreisförmiges betongefülltes Stahlhohlprofil werden im Rahmen dieses Artikels in statischer, konstruktiver und fertigungstechnischer Hinsicht ausführlich erläutert und verglichen. Im Weiteren werden die wesentlichen Besonderheiten bei der Planung und Ausführung von Megaverbundstützen ausführlich im Anlagenbau dargestellt.

Application of mega composite columns in industrial facilities. Plant structures in industrial facilities can reach a height of 150 m. The towers are commonly built as a framework structure in steel or concrete. However, as an alternative, the columns of these structures can be built as composite construction. In recent years, the concrete filled steel tubes, i. e. the so‐called mega composite columns, have been investigated extensively by HOCHTIEF. In this paper, two types of cross‐sections, the rectangular and circular hollow‐section, are explained and compared in detail from a static, structural and manufacturing point of view. Moreover, the most significant characteristics in the design and construction of mega composite columns are highlighted within this paper.
Experimentelle und numerische Untersuchungen an Hochleistungsverbindungen mit Zahnleisten
Authors: Tandler Jens , Schmid Volker
Published: August 2016

Der vorliegende Beitrag befasst sich mit der konzentrierten Tangentialkrafteinleitung von Stahlbauteilen in Betonkonstruktionen mittels Zahnleistenverbindungen. Verbindungen mit Zahnleisten bestehen aus einem dicken Stahlblech mit Stahlzähnen, welche sich über Druckkräfte im Beton abstützen. Zur Klärung der Traglast und des Last‐Verformungsverhaltens wurden experimentelle und numerische Untersuchungen durchgeführt.

Als erster Schritt wurden experimentelle Untersuchungen zur Tragfähigkeit der Verzahnung zwischen Beton und Stahl unter verschiedenen Druckfeldwinkeln durchgeführt. Der Beton im Verbindungsbereich zeigte eine vergleichbare Tragfähigkeit wie ungestörter Beton. Weiterhin wurde ein Bauteilversuch mit Zahnleistenverbindung entworfen und durchgeführt. Damit konnten die Traglast und die Last‐Verformungseigenschaften für druckgestützte innenliegende Zahnleistenverbindungen in einer realitätsnahen Einbausituation untersucht werden. Mit einem neu entwickelten numerischen Modell ließen sich die Versuchsergebnisse interpretieren. Anhand der gewonnenen Erkenntnisse wurde das Bemessungskonzept ergänzt.

High capacity saw tooth connectors – experimental testing and numerical studies. The presented paper describes the transfer of concentrated loads from structural steelwork into concrete structures using saw tooth connectors. Saw tooth connectors consists of a thick steel plate with steel teeth which transfer forces into the surrounding concrete via compressive action. Experimental and numerical investigations have been undertaken in order to clarify the ultimate load and the load deflection behaviour. Firstly, experimental studies on the load carrying capacity of the steel teeth/concrete interface have been conducted. The compressive forces onto the teeth have been applied at varying angles of action. The concrete at the connection has a similar load capacity as an undisturbed concrete section. Secondly, a test of a complete connection within a concrete slab has been designed. The saw tooth connector used, was a two sided connector in a situation with compressive reaction. With this, load capacity and load deflection tests in a real live situation have been undertaken. In combination with the also developed numerical model, the tests were interpreted. The investigation concluded in an addition to the structural design concept.
Megamarketing in Contested Markets: The Struggle between Maintaining and Disrupting Institutions
Authors: Humphreys Ashlee , Chaney Damien , Slimane Karim Ben
Published: August 2016

Megamarketing, the coordinated effort to influence normative, regulative, and cognitive institutions, has previously been used to study the creation and evolution of markets. We use the concept of megamarketing and its adjoining theory of neo‐institutionalism, to study the conflict between firms that want to destabilize the market and the incumbents that want to maintain the status quo in established markets. Consequently, we extend the concept of megamarketing to contested markets and propose a broader, more global view of marketing that involves all of the stakeholders likely to impact the market. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sodium chlorite increases production of reactive oxygen species that impair the antioxidant system and cause morphological changes in human erythrocytes
Authors: Ali Shaikh Nisar , Mahmood Riaz
Published: August 2016

Sodium chlorite (NaClO2) is used in the production of chlorine dioxide for bleaching and stripping of textiles, pulp, and paper. It is also used as disinfectant in municipal water treatment and as a component in therapeutic rinses and gels. The effect of NaClO2 on human erythrocytes has been studied under in vitro conditions. Incubation of 5% suspension of erythrocytes with NaClO2 (0.1–2.0 mM) at 37°C for 30 min resulted in marked cell lysis (1.2–3.8 fold) and increased their osmotic fragility. Several parameters were assayed in cell lysates prepared from NaClO2‐treated and ‐untreated (control) erythrocytes. Compared to controls, exposure to NaClO2 caused significant increase in protein oxidation (1.1–8.07 fold), lipid peroxidation (1.08–4.95 fold) with decrease in total sulfhydryl (−5 to −61%), and glutathione levels (−7 to −86%). Methemoglobin content was tremendously increased, by 5–52 fold when compared to control, while methemoglobin reductase activity decreased (−17 to −93%) upon NaClO2 treatment. NaClO2 enhanced the generation of reactive oxygen species by 3–21 fold and lowered the metal reducing and free radical quenching ability of erythrocytes. It also caused an increase in nitric oxide levels (2.7–15.4 fold) showing generation of nitrosative stress too. The activities of major antioxidant and membrane bound enzymes were significantly altered. Gross morphological changes, from discocytes to echinocytes, were seen in NaClO2‐treated erythrocytes under electron microscope. These results show that NaClO2 induces oxidative stress in human erythrocytes, damages the membrane, and impairs the cellular antioxidant defence system. This oxidative damage can shorten the life span of erythrocytes in blood resulting in red cell senescence. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 32: 1343–1353, 2017.
Transmitting and Distributing Bodily Knowledge in the Digital Age
Authors: Cuykendall Shannon , Schiphorst Thecla
Published: August 2016

We explore embodiment in the digital age—a time where dance is now often passed down from body—to computer—to body. While some believe digitally mediated transmission of bodily knowledge to be “disembodied,” we propose that digital technology can extend our conceptions of embodiment by creating more space for knowledge and growth within the field of dance. We seek to understand the expanding notion of embodiment through a case study that examines the transmission of bodily knowledge in the performanceLonging and Forgetting. We compare differences in transmitting bodily knowledge through multiple modes: phenomenological accounts, text, and video.
Analyzing the Aesthetics of Dance Instructional Design: An Example from Greek Traditional Dance Teaching
Authors: Dania Aspasia
Published: August 2016

Within the context of dance education, the quality of students’ learning experiences during instruction affects their ability to coordinate body and mind effectively. The more these experiences are invested with emotionally motivated expectation, the more pervasive will students’ occupation with dance be. On this premise, the learning of dance is realized as a continuous process of aesthetic understanding, appreciation, and evaluation of the form of dance, as a learning object per se. Such a perspective upgrades instructional design to the level of art making, where every dancer can experience the aesthetically acceptable and “beautiful” while participating in dance lesson activities. The review of relevant literature shows that the application of solely reproductive practices in dance teaching cannot support the establishment of a learning environment that is rich in aesthetic experiences.

The aim of this paper is to analyze those principles that should govern dance lesson design so that dance teaching can have the impact of an aesthetically elevated experience on every student dancer. With Greek traditional dance at the background and under the prism of modern socio-cognitive and aesthetic theories, the attributes of aesthetic teaching practices are reviewed. The design and implementation of a newly established method, the Laban Notation method for Teaching Dance, is used as an example. The author's objective is to add a new perspective to the design of dance teaching-a perspective that will balance student dancers' potential between passion for performance, conceptual appraising and personal identity.
Advocacy, Austerity, and Internationalization in the Anthropology of Dance (Work in Progress)
Authors: Gore Georgiana , Grau Andrée , Koutsouba Maria
Published: August 2016

This paper is concerned with resonances of the tragic in twentieth-century central-European dance theatet, to be discussed with particular reference to Pina Bausch's 1975 Orpheus and Eurydice. In my study Resonances of the Tragic: Between Event and Affect (2015), I have argued that in terms of a history of the “longue durée,” the evocation of the tragic occurs in a field of tension between technique, the mise-en-scène, and conceptions, as well as procedures and moments of interruption, of suspension, of disruption and of the indeterminable resulting from ecstatic corporeality. Its structure and function can generate an event in the emphatic sense of the term; consequently, it provides a paradigm for recognizing structures of form and of an aesthetic of reception, structures emerging from individual constellations of the fictional and choric, absence and presence. From the perspective of dance studies, the tragic emanates from the representation of horrendous monstrosity testing the limits of what can be imagined by means of the moved body in all senses of the word; but how exactly does Bausch produce the qualities of the ambivalent, ambiguous, and paradoxical—and, consequently, the tragic?
Dance Advocacy in the Age of Austerity: UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Convention and the Case of Dance
Authors: Margari Zoi N.
Published: August 2016

In 2003, UNESCO adopted the “Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage” and introduced within a global perspective, new socio-political and economical international parameters for the protection and promotion of cultural heritage. In this context, dance, as an immaterial cultural aspect, lies at the heart of international developments. In my essay, I will present cases of dance phenomena figuring in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists and discuss the ways in which ubiquitous dance practices are changing due to the processes of (re)negotiating their existence values in the novel international socio-cultural context.
A View of Ancient Greek Dance from 1895
Authors: Lee Ruyter Nancy
Published: August 2016

In 1895, the bookDancing, a broad survey of world dance history, was published in London. Mainly written by Mrs. Lilly Grove (later Dame Lily Grove Frazer) after five years of travel and intensive research, it also includes four short chapters by other authors. It was issued in later editions after 1895 and is still an important early source for information about dance history. Of the 454 pages inDancing, twenty-six are devoted to ancient Greece. I discuss some of Grove's sources, statements, and conclusions in relation to those of more recent writings about dance in ancient Greece.
Dance and Drama in Aristotle'sDramatics(akaPoetics): New Principles from an Ancient Treatise
Authors: Scott Gregory
Published: August 2016

In previous publications I demonstrated that dance and music are essential conditions in the definition of tragedy for Aristotle. This opens the door for a re-examination of the place of theatrical dance in the work usually considered to be the most influential treatise on drama in Western culture. Here I begin to explore how the principles of dance criticism might therefore now be developed, and I also discuss whether Aristotle modifies Plato's own critical principles pertaining to choral art (including dance) fromLawsII.
Between Boundaries of Tradition and Global Flows: Reimagining Communities in Kathak Dance
Authors: Skiba Katarzyna
Published: August 2016

The aim of the paper is to examine the ongoing transformation in Kathak art and practice, in response to demands of global markets, sensibilities of new audiences, and the artists' personal need for self-expression. The paper explores why classical Indian dancers push the barriers of Kathak tradition, and how they redefine the idea of authenticity. Do the innovative choreographies indicate an increasing shift toward individualization, transnationalism, and cultural pluralism, or rather do they attempt to renegotiate the notions of “Indianness”? To what extent is genre hybridity considered as an emerging aesthetic value that reflects complex, multi-layered identities of the performers?