bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distributed optimisation of second‐order multi‐agent systems by control algorithm using position‐only interaction with time‐varying delay
Authors: Tran Ngoc‐Tu , Wang Yan‐Wu , Liu Xiao‐Kang , Xiao Jiang‐Wen
Published: July 2017

In this study, the distributed optimisation problem is investigated by using the framework of second‐order multi‐agent systems (MASs) over a directed communication topology. A distributed algorithm is proposed for the MASs to seek the solution of the optimisation problem. The proposed algorithm contains two layers, the cooperative compensator and the local optimiser, where the former layer is to compensate the cooperative errors and the latter will lead the agents to the optimal solution. In the algorithm, each agent only uses the position information from its neighbours in the presence of delay. By utilising the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional, delay‐dependent conditions are derived for the slowly‐varying and fast‐varying delays, respectively, to guarantee the algorithm converges to the optimal solution. Furthermore, a criterion on solving the optimisation problem through the MASs with discrete‐time communication is also proposed directly from the result of the fast‐varying delay. Finally, a numerical simulation example is presented to illustrate the persuasive effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Cooperative global output regulation for a class of non‐linear multi‐agent systems with a non‐linear exosystem
Authors: Huang Bomin , Lan Weiyao
Published: July 2017

This study considers the cooperative global output regulation problem for a class of non‐linear multi‐agent systems. In particular, the authors consider the case that the exosystem is of a non‐linear form. With a distributed non‐linear observer of the exosystem and the solvability assumption of the regulator equations, the authors convert the problem into a global cooperative stabilisation problem. Sufficient conditions are derived for the global cooperative stabilisation problem under fixed directed network topologies and switching undirected network topologies, respectively. Finally, the validity of the proposed approach is illustrated by simulation results.
Design and analysis of a new down‐the‐hole electromagnetic hammer driven by tube linear motor
Authors: Wu Tao , Tang Yiru , Tang Shengwen , Li Yongbo , He Wangyong , Chen E
Published: July 2017

Percussive‐rotary drilling is an effective method for the hard rock drilling. As hydraulic and pneumatic hammers have many problems especially in the deep core drilling, a new electromagnetic hammer driven by a tube linear motor is introduced in this study. The study mainly covers the mechanical structure and electromagnetic design of the hammer, respectively. Due to the direct use of electric power, the electromagnetic hammer has the advantage of high efficiency while it must meet the minimal percussive energy requirement under the limitation of drill pipe diameter. In this study, the validity of electromagnetic design is verified through the finite‐element analysis software Ansoft/Maxwell 2D and numerical calculation of electromagnetic force. The working temperature in deep down‐hole is relatively high, the influence of high temperature in deep hole on the electromagnetic thrust of the linear motor is then analysed. A motion model of linear motor hammer is established to calculate and analyse the impact power and frequency under different conditions. The results show that the performance of linear motor hammer can reach or even exceed the one of same diameter hydraulic hammer, especially in the low‐frequency range. The prototype test also confirms the validity of the design.
Destination and route choice models for bidirectional pedestrian flow based on the social force model
Authors: Ning‐bo Cao , Zhao‐wei Qu , Yong‐heng Chen , Li‐ying Zhao , Xian‐min Song , Qiao‐wen Bai
Published: July 2017

In this study, social force model (SFM) is extended by using a discretisation grid to permit pedestrians to change their desired speed directions dynamically. In reality, other pedestrians may obscure the visions of the behind pedestrians, so the behind pedestrians will be blocked if they insist to walk in the final desired directions calculated by the SFM. So, a dynamic destination choice model is established to provide pedestrians a series of available intermediate destinations. Based on the dynamic destination choice model, the authors use a discretisation grid to represent all the potential moving directions of pedestrians, and model the weight of every potential moving direction. The direction with the maximum weight is selected as the optimal route at that time step. Besides, pedestrians prefer to pass near to crowds with a low relative velocity and choose the low space occupancy route when several routes have the same pedestrian density. So, pedestrian speeds, space un‐occupancy, route length, crowd density and object pedestrian ratio are used to develop the weight model. The modified SFM guarantees pedestrians to obtain an available and optimal route. Compared to other models, the proposed models can be used to reproduce the behavior of bidirectional pedestrians more really.
On the radiation mechanism of implanted antennas with large conformal ground plane
Authors: Matekovits Ladislau , Su Yalin , Peter Ildiko
Published: July 2017

The radiating mechanism of a class of implanted antennas is investigated. The patch like antennas are bent on a titanium‐based alloy made artificial bone that acts as a ground plane. For this investigation, the antennas are embedded in two different bio‐compatible materials, namely polydimethylsiloxane and hydroxyapatite, respectively, that circumscribe the artificial bone. The dielectric layers act as a support for surface waves that influence the radiation pattern of the antenna. The relationship between the dielectric properties of the substrates and the electric path of the outgoing electric field is discussed: the explanation of the dissimilar radiation efficiencies of the two antennas is based on the different directions of the refraction at the dielectric‐muscle interface, that will influence both the length of the surface waves and the paths in the lossy muscle tissue. The analysis is carried out at the Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band (2.4–2.5 GHz).
A grid‐tied power conversion interface with a five‐level inverter
Authors: Wu Jinn‐Chang , Jou Hurng‐Liahng , Chen Yung‐Lin
Published: July 2017

This study proposes a novel grid‐tied power conversion interface that connects a renewable energy source to the utility. The proposed grid‐tied power conversion interface is composed of an H‐bridge inverter, a selection switch set and a boost power converter. The proposed grid‐tied power conversion interface generates a five‐level AC voltage. The boost power converter is only operated when the magnitude of the utility voltage is greater than the voltage of the renewable energy source. A part of the power from the renewable energy source is directly converted to AC power via the selection switch set and the H‐bridge inverter. Therefore, the power conversion efficiency of the proposed grid‐tied power conversion interface is improved. The proposed grid‐tied power conversion interface contains only six power electronic switches so the power circuit is simplified. The performance of the proposed grid‐tied power conversion interface is verified experimentally.
Modelling of a flap‐type wave energy converter farm in a mild‐slope equation model for a wake effect assessment
Authors: Tomey‐Bozo Nicolas , Murphy Jimmy , Troch Peter , Lewis Tony , Thomas Gareth
Published: July 2017

It is expected that large farms of wave energy converters (WECs) will be installed and as part of the consenting process it will be necessary to quantify their impact on the local environment. The objective of this study is to assess the impact a WEC farm has on the incoming wave field through the use of a novel methodology. This methodology assesses the changes of the significant wave height surrounding a flap‐type WEC farm with a special focus on the lee of the farm. A time‐dependent mild‐slope equation model is employed to solve the propagation of surface waves and their interaction with the devices. The model represents the devices as obstacle cells with attributed absorption coefficients tuned against near‐fields obtained from a boundary element method (BEM) solver. The wake effect of the farm is determined by using a step‐by‐step approach starting first with an assessment of one device and progressively incrementing to a larger number of flaps. The effect of incident sea states, device separations and water depth changes on the wake effect of the farm is also investigated. This work shows the potential of a WEC farm to reduce significant wave heights on the leeside.
Synthesis and characterisation of NiCoP urchins
Authors: Liu Shuling , Guo Jie , He Xiaodong , Han Xiaoli
Published: July 2017

NiCoP with an urchin‐like structure was successfully synthesised by a facile solvothermal route and characterised by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that NiCoP was a single crystal structure, composed of a large number of urchin‐like structures and few spherical structures. In addition, a few hollow urchins‐likes were observed. Moreover, many nanorods self‐assembled on the surface of the urchin‐like NiCoP, with lengths of 300–500 nm and a diameter of 20 nm. The novel NiCoP nuclei were aggregated into spherical particles that gradually grew into hollow urchin‐like structures via Ostwald ripening. In addition, NiCoP has good adsorption properties and can absorb some organic dyes, like Malachite green and Congo red.
3D ZnO rod‐like structures loaded with silver nanoparticles and their enhanced photocatalytic performance
Authors: Wang Qiang , Yu Zhuanni , Sun Xiaowei , Lan Jing
Published: July 2017

Three‐dimensional (3D) zinc oxide (ZnO) rod‐like structures loaded with silver (Ag) nanoparticles (3D Ag/ZnO RLS) have been successfully synthesised by a facile hydrothermal and microwave method. The successful loading of Ag nanoparticles and the 3D hierarchical structure were characterised by scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The pHs of zero point charge were 7.8 and 7.9 for 3D ZnO rod‐like structures (3D ZnO RLS) and 3D Ag/ZnO RLS, respectively. The photocatalytic performances of the 3D RLS were evaluated by decomposing methylene blue under ultraviolet irradiation. Compared to 3D ZnO RLS, the enhanced photocatalytic performance of 3D Ag/ZnO RLS may be attributed to the 3D hierarchical structure of the Ag/ZnO, as the structure can lead to enhanced light absorption and lower recombination of photoinduced holes and electrons.
Comparison between Scotch tape and gel‐assisted mechanical exfoliation techniques for preparation of 2D transition metal dichalcogenide flakes
Authors: Budania Prachi , Baine Paul T. , Montgomery John H. , McNeill David W. , Neil Mitchell S.J. , Modreanu Mircea , Hurley Paul K.
Published: July 2017

The traditional use of Scotch tape for exfoliating layers of two‐dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has been compared with a gel‐assisted mechanical exfoliation technique, using MoS2 as a representative TMD. The gel‐assisted exfoliation process, which makes use of both Scotch tape and a gel film, is superior to the use of Scotch tape alone, as it gives a higher probability of obtaining larger surface area few‐layer flakes. A quantitative analysis has been made between the samples prepared by the two techniques. The total density of flakes transferred onto a sample by Scotch tape alone was much higher than when using the gel film. However, most of the transferred flakes were several microns in thickness with lateral dimensions <10 µm. Therefore, the higher percentage of few‐layer flakes with large lateral dimensions (> 20 µm) transferred using gel film is very advantageous. Since samples prepared using gel film have fewer flakes, the contacting of potential thin flakes on the sample can be done conveniently. Also, unlike Scotch tape, the gel film does not leave adhesive residue on the substrate. Optical microscopy, contrast difference measurements and Raman spectroscopy were used for identification of the few‐layer MoS2 flakes.
Asymmetric [3+3] Cycloaddition for Heterocycle Synthesis
Authors: Deng Yongming , Cheng Qing-Qing , Doyle Michael
Published: July 2017

Asymmetric syntheses of six-membered ring heterocycles are important research targets not only in synthetic organic chemistry but also in pharmaceuticals. The [3+3]-cycloaddition methodology is a complementary strategy to [4+2] cycloaddition for the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds. Recent progress in [3+3]-cycloaddition processes provide powerful asymmetric methodologies for the construction of six-membered ring heterocycles with one to three heteroatoms in the ring. In this account, synthetic efforts during the past five years toward the synthesis of enantioenriched six-membered ring heterocycles through asymmetric [3+3] cycloaddition are reported. Asymmetric organocatalysis uses chiral amines, thioureas, phosphoric acids, or NHC catalysis to achieve high enantiocontrol. Transition-metal catalysts used as chiral Lewis acids to activate a dipolar species is an alternative approach. The most recent advance, chiral transition-metal-catalyzed reactions of enoldiazo compounds, has contributed toward the versatile and highly selective synthesis of six-membered heterocyclic compounds.

1 Introduction

2 Asymmetric Formal [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reactions by Organo­catalysis

2.1 By Amino-Catalysis

2.2 By N-Heterocyclic Carbenes

2.3 By Bifunctional Tertiary Amine-thioureas

2.4 By Chiral Phosphoric Acids

3 Asymmetric Formal [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reactions by Transition-Metal Catalysis

3.1 Copper Catalysis

3.2 Other Transition-Metal Catalysis

4 Asymmetric [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reactions of Enoldiazo Compounds

4.1 Asymmetric [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reactions of Nitrones with Electrophilic Metallo-enolcarbene Intermediates

4.2 Dearomatization in Asymmetric [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reactions of Enoldiazoacetates

4.3 Asymmetric Stepwise [3+3]-Cycloaddition Reaction of Enoldiazoacetates with Hydrazones

5 Summary and Outlook
The Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Metabolic Status of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Maktabi Maryam , Chamani Maryam , Asemi Zatollah
Published: July 2017

Data on the effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic status of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are scarce. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effects of vitamin D supplementation on metabolic status of patients with PCOS. This randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on 70 vitamin D-deficient (serum concentrations<20 ng/ml) women with phenotype B-PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria aged 18–40 years old. Participants were randomly allocated into 2 groups to take either 50 000 IU vitamin D (n=35) or placebo (n=35) every 2 weeks for 12 weeks. Metabolic, endocrine, inflammation, and oxidative stress biomarkers were quantified at the beginning of the study and after 12-week intervention. After the 12-week intervention, compared to the placebo, vitamin D supplementation significantly decreased fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (−3.1±7.3 vs. +0.5±6.3 mg/dl, p=0.02), insulin (−1.4±3.6 vs. +2.6±7.0 μIU/ml, p=0.004), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated insulin resistance (−0.3±0.8 vs. +0.6±1.6, p=0.003), homeostasis model of assessment-estimated B cell function (−4.9±13.4 vs. +9.9±26.9, p=0.005), and increased quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (+0.01±0.01 vs. −0.02±0.05, p=0.007). Supplementation with vitamin D also led to significant reductions in serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (−0.7±1.4 vs. +0.5±2.1 μg/mL, p=0.009) and plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (−0.1±0.5 vs. +0.9±2.1 μmol/l, p=0.01) compared to the placebo. Overall, vitamin D supplementation for 12 weeks in vitamin D-deficient women with phenotype B-PCOS had beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis parameters, hs-CRP, and MDA.
The Effect of Aromatase on the Reproductive Function of Obese Males
Authors: Xu Xiaolin , Sun Mingqi , Ye Jifeng , Luo Dandan , Su Xiaohui , Zheng Dongmei , Feng Li , Gao Ling , Yu Chunxiao , Guan Qingbo
Published: July 2017

Obesity has increased dramatically worldwide, which is associated with male infertility. Androgen deficiency, impaired spermatogenesis, and erectile dysfunction are characteristics of male infertility. The balance of androgens and estrogens is essential for maintaining normal reproductive function in males. Aromatase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the conversion of androgens into estrogens, is present in various tissues. The expression of aromatase is proportional to body fat mass and causes more fat accumulation, thus forming a vicious cycle. Excessive aromatase activity in adipose tissue leads to increased conversion of androgens into estrogens, eventually results in a reduction of testosterone levels and is the underlying reason for obesity-related infertility. In the male reproductive system, all testicular somatic cells and germ cells express aromatase, except for peritubular myoid cells. The results of studies regarding the effect of aromatase in testicular somatic cells and germ cells have been contradictory. The effect of estrogens in testicular somatic cells is inhibitory, leading to reduced testosterone levels and sperm production; however, it has been observed that aromatase participates in the acquisition of sperm motility. The overall effect of estrogen modulation is an inhibition of spermatogenesis. Aromatase inhibitors are an effective therapy for obesity-associated hypogonadism because they restore normal sex hormone levels and improve semen parameters. This article systematically introduces the basic knowledge of aromatase and provides information of the current advances relating to aromatase in male reproductive function. Increasing our knowledge on the role of aromatase in male obesity could help in proposing new approaches to treat infertile men.
Top 10 der umsatzstärksten Arzneimittel – Elfmal teurer als der Durchschnitt
Authors: Doelfs Guntram
Published: July 2017

Die zehn umsatzstärksten Arzneimittel des Jahres 2016 sind für rund 12 Prozent aller Nettoarzneimittelkosten der gesetzlichen
Krankenversicherung (GKV) verantwortlich.
Versorgungsforschung – ICD-Diagnosesicherheit ambulanter Krebserkrankungen
Authors: Blaich Cornelia
Published: July 2017

Czwikla J et al. ICD-Codierqualität ambulanter Krebsdiagnosen in GKV-Routinedaten. Z Evid Fortbild Qual Gesundhwesen. 2016; 118–119:
48–55

Brust- und Prostatakrebs stellen die häufigste Tumorlokalisation bei Frauen und Männern dar, gefolgt von Darmkrebs als dritt- bzw.
zweithäufigste Lokalisation. Früherkennung und Absicherung der Diagnose tragen maßgeblich zum Therapieerfolg bei. Die Kodierqualität
nach ICD-10-GM im ambulanten Bereich ist jedoch limitiert. In einer Kohortenstudie wurde nun die ICDKodierqualität ambulanter
Krebsdiagnosen analysiert.
Atmung – Standardisierte Checkliste macht Intubation von Neugeborenen sicherer
Authors: Weiß Maria
Published: July 2017

Hatch LD. et al. Intervention To Improve Patient Safety During Intubation in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Pediatrics 2016; 138:
e20160069

Kinder auf der Neugeborenen-Intensivstation sind besonders durch Komplikationen während des Krankenhausaufenthaltes gefährdet. Dies gilt
auch für die Intubation, die relativ häufig mit unerwünschten Ereignissen einhergeht. US-amerikanische Neonatologen haben jetzt
untersucht, durch welche Maßnahmen sich die Komplikationsrate bei Intubationen in ihrem Perinatal- Zentrum senken lässt.
On the calculation of resonances by analytic continuation of eigenvalues from the stabilization graph
Authors: Haritan Idan , Moiseyev Nimrod
Published: July 2017

Resonances play a major role in a large variety of fields in physics and chemistry. Accordingly, there is a growing interest in methods designed to calculate them. Recently, Landau et al. proposed a new approach to analytically dilate a single eigenvalue from the stabilization graph into the complex plane. This approach, termed Resonances Via Padé (RVP), utilizes the Padé approximant and is based on a unique analysis of the stabilization graph. Yet, analytic continuation of eigenvalues from the stabilization graph into the complex plane is not a new idea. In 1975, Jordan suggested an analytic continuation method based on the branch point structure of the stabilization graph. The method was later modified by McCurdy and McNutt, and it is still being used today. We refer to this method as the Truncated Characteristic Polynomial (TCP) method. In this manuscript, we perform an in-depth comparison between the RVP and the TCP methods. We demonstrate that while both methods are important and complementary, the advantage of one method over the other is problem-dependent. Illustrative examples are provided in the manuscript.
Linear servomotor probe drive system with real-time self-adaptive position control for the Alcator C-Mod tokamak
Authors: Brunner D. , Kuang A. Q. , LaBombard B. , Burke W.
Published: July 2017

A new servomotor drive system has been developed for the horizontal reciprocating probe on the Alcator C-Mod tokamak. Real-time measurements of plasma temperature and density—through use of a mirror Langmuir probe bias system—combined with a commercial linear servomotor and controller enable self-adaptive position control. Probe surface temperature and its rate of change are computed in real time and used to control probe insertion depth. It is found that a universal trigger threshold can be defined in terms of these two parameters; if the probe is triggered to retract when crossing the trigger threshold, it will reach the same ultimate surface temperature, independent of velocity, acceleration, or scrape-off layer heat flux scale length. In addition to controlling the probe motion, the controller is used to monitor and control all aspects of the integrated probe drive system.
Thermally driven self-healing using copper nanofiber heater
Authors: Lee Min Wook , Jo Hong Seok , Yoon Sam S. , Yarin Alexander L.
Published: July 2017

Nano-textured transparent heaters made of copper nanofibers (CuNFs) are used to facilitate accelerated self-healing of bromobutyl rubber (BIIR). The heater and BIIR layer are separately deposited on each side of a transparent flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate. A pre-notched crack on the BIIR layer was bridged due to heating facilitated by CuNFs. In the corrosion test, a cracked BIIR layer covered a steel substrate. An accelerated self-healing of the crack due to the transparent copper nanofiber heater facilitated an anti-corrosion protective effect of the BIIR layer.
Thermal stability and dielectric properties of nano-SiO2-doped cellulose
Authors: Zhang Song , Tang Chao , Hao Jian , Wang Xiaobo
Published: July 2017

We report the thermal stability and dielectric properties of nano-SiO2-doped cellulose. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed using an undoped cellulose model (C0), a nano-SiO2-doped cellulose model with untreated surface unsaturated bonds (C1), and a nano-SiO2-doped cellulose model for which surface unsaturated O atoms were treated with –H and surface unsaturated Si atoms were treated with –OH (C2). The simulation results showed that the mechanical properties of C1 and C2 were better than those of C0 and were optimal when the content of nano-SiO2 was 5%. The simulation results for C2 were more accurate than those for the other models, and thus, C2 provides theoretical support for the construction of a reasonable model of nano-SiO2 and cellulose in the future. The temperature at which the free volume fraction of C2 jumps was 50 K higher than that for C0, and the thermal stability of C2 was better than that of C0. Experimental results showed that the maximum tensile strength of the insulation paper was obtained when the content of nano-SiO2 was 5%. Moreover, at this content of nano-SiO2, the dielectric constant was lowest and closest to that of transformer insulation oil, which will improve the distribution of the electric field and thus the overall breakdown performance of oil–paper insulation systems.
Compact flat band states in optically induced flatland photonic lattices
Authors: Travkin Evgenij , Diebel Falko , Denz Cornelia
Published: July 2017

We realize low-dimensional tight-binding lattices that host flat bands in their dispersion relation and demonstrate the existence of optical compact flat band states. The lattices are resembled by arrays of optical waveguides fabricated by the state-of-the-art spatio-temporal Bessel beam multiplexing optical induction in photorefractive media. We work out the decisive details of the transition from the discrete theory to the real optical system ensuring that the experimental lattices stand up to numerical scrutiny exhibiting well-approximated band structures. Our highly flexible system is a promising candidate for further experimental investigation of theoretically studied disorder effects in flat band lattices.
Automated selection of aptamers against cholangiocarcinoma cells on an integrated microfluidic platform
Authors: Gopinathan Priya , Hung Lien-Yu , Wang Chih-Hung , Chiang Nai-Jung , Wang Yu-Chun , Shan Yan-Shen , Lee Gwo-Bin
Published: July 2017

An integrated microfluidic system capable of automatically identifying aptamers specific to cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) cells was developed herein. The developed system was capable of performing cell-based systematic evolution of ligands via an exponential enrichment (Cell-SELEX) process on-chip, and only six rounds of Cell-SELEX were required to identify high specificity aptamers; this represents a significant improvement in speed over conventional SELEX, in which 15–20 rounds are typically required. Using the microfluidic chip developed, three aptamers specific to CCA cells (one for SNU-478 cells and two for HuCCT-1 cells) were successfully screened. This automated system could be modified to uncover aptamer probes against other cancer cells, thereby allowing for earlier diagnosis and consequently a potentially improved prognosis.
Field-driven electro-optic dynamics of polar nanoregions in nanodisordered KTa1−xNbxO3 crystal
Authors: Tan Peng , Tian Hao , Mao Chenyang , Hu Chengpeng , Meng Xiangda , Li Li , Shi Guang , Zhou Zhongxiang
Published: July 2017

Polar nano-regions (PNRs) are considered to be responsible for giant electro-optic (EO) and piezoelectric effects, but the PNR response mechanism remains unclear. For our further understanding of the PNR field-driven dynamics, we investigate quadratic and linear EO effects in nanodisordered KTa1−xNbxO3 at (Tc + 2 °C) under various ac and (ac + dc) electric fields. The large EO effects exhibit a strong electric field dependence. Our results show that non-ergodic PNRs have vibrational and reorientational field-driven dynamics that jointly contribute to the dynamic EO characteristics. Further, macroscopic symmetry breaking under a bias electric field induces the intrinsic linear EO effect. This understanding of the dynamic EO characteristics and field-driven dynamics of PNRs will be valuable for photonic device development and provide a basis for exploring the origin of giant EO and piezoelectric effects in disordered ferroelectrics and relaxors.
Spiral holographic imaging through quantum interference
Authors: Tang Jie , Ming Yang , Hu Wei , Lu Yan-qing
Published: July 2017

Spiral holographic imaging in the Hong-Ou–Mandel interference scheme is introduced. Using spontaneous parametric down-conversion as a source of photon pairs, we analyze the joint orbital angular momentum spectrum of a reference photon and the photon encoding information of the object. The first-order interference of light beams in standard holographic imaging is replaced by the quantum interference of two-photon probability amplitudes. The difficulty in retrieving the amplitude and phase structure of an unknown photon is thereby avoided as classical interferometric techniques such as optical holography do not apply. Our results show that the full information of the object's transmission function can be recorded in the spiral hologram, which originates directly from the joint orbital angular momentum spectrum. This presents a lateral demonstration of compressive imaging and can potentially be used for remote sensing.
The chemo-mechanical effect of cutting fluid on material removal in diamond scribing of silicon
Authors: Kumar Arkadeep , Melkote Shreyes N.
Published: July 2017

The mechanical integrity of silicon wafers cut by diamond wire sawing depends on the damage (e.g., micro-cracks) caused by the cutting process. The damage type and extent depends on the material removal mode, i.e., ductile or brittle. This paper investigates the effect of cutting fluid on the mode of material removal in diamond scribing of single crystal silicon, which simulates the material removal process in diamond wire sawing of silicon wafers. We conducted scribing experiments with a diamond tipped indenter in the absence (dry) and in the presence of a water-based cutting fluid. We found that the cutting mode is more ductile when scribing in the presence of cutting fluid compared to dry scribing. We explain the experimental observations by the chemo-mechanical effect of the cutting fluid on silicon, which lowers its hardness and promotes ductile mode material removal.
Buried homojunction in CdS/Sb2Se3 thin film photovoltaics generated by interfacial diffusion
Authors: Zhou Ying , Li Yang , Luo Jiajun , Li Dengbing , Liu Xinsheng , Chen Chao , Song Huaibing , Ma Jingyuan , Xue Ding-Jiang , Yang Bo , Tang Jiang
Published: July 2017

Antimony selenide (Sb2Se3) emerges as a very promising non-toxic absorber material for thin film photovoltaics, and most of the devices, either in the superstrate or substrate configuration, employed CdS as the buffer layer. Due to the peculiar one-dimensional crystal structure of Sb2Se3, severe interfacial diffusion would be expected. In this letter, the interfacial diffusion in CdS/Sb2Se3 photovoltaics was carefully characterized from a combined material and device physics characterization. The results indicated that a buried homojunction located deep inside the Sb2Se3 absorber layer due to Cd diffusion, instead of the apparent CdS/Sb2Se3 heterojunction, dictated charge separation and device performance in Sb2Se3 thin film solar cells. Cd diffusion converted p-type Sb2Se3 into n-type by introducing a donor level with an activation energy of 0.22 eV. Our studies deepen the understanding of Sb2Se3 photovoltaics and shed light on their further performance optimization.
Quantum dots transparent display (QDs-TPD) using a liquid QDs layer and N2 barrier discharge
Authors: Kim Hong Tak , Lee Sung-Youp , Sohn Sang Ho
Published: July 2017

Quantum dots transparent display (QDs-TPD) was realized using a liquid QDs layer and N2 barrier discharge panel. In the N2 discharge, the 2nd+ lines of N2 in the range of 300 - 400 nm (C3Πu – B3Πg), and the 1st- lines of N2+ at 391.4 and 427.8 nm (B2Σu+ - X2 Σg+) were mainly observed, while the visible emission lines were rarely observed. This implies the N2 discharge is suitable for the excitation source of the QDs, due to the strong ultra-violet radiations and the weak visible emissions. The emission centers for red, green, and blue color in QDs-TPD were positioned at 452, 540, and 638 nm, respectively, and the N2 emission peaks were seldom observed in the visible region. The transmittance of QDs-TPD was approximately 40% in the visible region and the luminescence was about 70 cd/m2. The CIE (x, y) coordinates of red, green, and blue colors were (0.670, 0.309), (0.378, 0.640), and (0.183, 0.118), respectively, and the color gamut was 71% of a NTSC standard. Thus, the QDs-TPD is expected as a way for realizing the TPD, due to its good transparency, excellent visibility, wide viewing-angle, aesthetical design, low cost production, and good scalability to large sizes.
Can ecological thinning deliver conservation outcomes in high-density river red gum forests? Establishing an adaptive management experiment
Authors: Gorrod E. J. , Childs P. , Keith D. A. , Bowen S. , Pennay M. , O'Kelly T. , Woodward R. , Haywood A. , Pigott J. P. , McCormack C.
Published: July 2017

Newly protected areas often have land-use legacies that affect their capacity to deliver conservation outcomes into the future. The management actions required to achieve conservation outcomes may be uncertain. This uncertainty may be resolved through experimental adaptive management that draws on knowledge of the ecology and history of the ecosystem. In New South Wales, Australia, river red gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) floodplain forests were gazetted as National Park in 2010, including Murray Valley National Park. Land-use legacies had resulted in one-third of river red gum forests and woodlands occurring as high-stem-density (>400 stems ha−1) stands at the time of gazettal. High-stem-density stands are characterised by dominance of narrow straight trees, a paucity of large and hollow-bearing trees, modified understorey vegetation and reduced coarse woody debris. A simple state-and-transition process model captured knowledge of the processes that led to the high-stem-density river red gum forest state being widespread. We describe the establishment of a manipulative experiment to evaluate whether ecological thinning can achieve conservation outcomes in high-stem-density stands of river red gum floodplain forest. The experiment was designed to reduce intrastand competition for water and other resources, and encourage development of spreading tree crowns. Future results will inform management decisions in high-stem-density stands of river red gum floodplain forests. The adaptive management approach employed provides a template for using knowledge of the ecosystem to resolve uncertainty about management, particularly in newly protected areas.
Synthesis process and microstructure of carbon fibres/graphite/copper composites by spark plasma sintering
Authors: Wang Yong , Wang Jin-guo , Zhang Dong-dong , Zou Hao-hao , Ran Xu
Published: July 2017

Carbon fibres/graphite/copper composites are prepared by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering at different temperature in this study, and the microstructure evolution is investigated during sintering. The curves of punch displacement, mould temperature, furnace chamber vacuum, and voltage against time were recorded and discussed. The results show that the carbon fibre/graphite/copper composite presents neat and pure interface. Copper element is found in carbon fibres and graphite, which may be due to discharge. The microhardness of the obtained composites is up to 160 HV. The highest relative density in this test is 96.5%. The microstructure evolution process during SPS is associated with sparking, joule heat, pressure, and deformation. The sintering process is uneven at initial stage.
Jerry Harvey: the quintessential life of sense and nonsense
Authors: Dent Eric B.
Published: July 2017

The author pays homage to his former professor, the iconic, caring, profane, charming, and piercing Jerry B. Harvey. Harvey may have been the first person to teach a course on spirituality in a school of business. His work predated the establishment of the Management, Spirituality,
and Religion interest group in the Academy of Management, dating at least to a talk about OD as a Religious Movement in 1964. The article is a critique of Harvey’s œuvre in terms of work that was ahead of its time, work that is timely for today, work that is timeless, and work
that feels dated at this point of the twenty-first century. In the final section, the author describes how Harvey’s work impacted his career even several decades later.
Effects of a New Artificial Reef Complex on Red Snapper and the Associated Fish Community: an Evaluation Using a Before–After Control–Impact Approach
Authors: Streich Matthew K. , Ajemian Matthew J. , Wetz Jennifer J. , Shively J. Dale , Shipley J. Brooke , Stunz Gregory W.
Published: July 2017

Artificial reefs are commonly created with the goal of enhancing fish populations. However, many studies evaluating their effects on these populations have been hindered by a lack of preconstruction data from existing natural habitats and temporal comparisons with control areas. Here, we present findings from a before–after control–impact study designed to assess the effects of a new artificial reef on fish populations in the western Gulf of Mexico. Vertical line and fish traps were used to sample the reef site and a paired control site with soft bottom substrates for 1 year before and 2 years after reef construction. Prior to reef construction in October 2013, and over bare substrates in general, infrequent catches of sea catfishes and small coastal sharks were observed. With the exception of rare occurrences of juvenile Gray Triggerfish Balistes capriscus and Red Snapper Lutjanus campechanus, which were observed only during the summer recruitment season, the control site exhibited a lack of reef species. In contrast, we documented dramatic increases in the frequency of occurrence and abundance of multiple reef species at the reef site following the addition of structured habitat. Distinct cohorts of Red Snapper could be followed through time suggesting site fidelity, and few fish greater than age 2 years were captured indicating limited migration of older fish from other areas. Given that the reef supported high densities of juvenile Red Snapper that were in good condition, growing quickly, and protected from potential shrimp trawl mortality, export of juveniles (i.e., production) to the adult population was evident and likely greater on a per-unit-area basis than for the control site. Our study highlights the potential benefits of artificial reefs to species like Red Snapper; however, future studies should investigate the relative roles of emigration and fishing mortality to better understand the effects of these structures on reef fish population dynamics.
Evaluation of current and temperature effects on optical performance of InGaAlP thin-film SMD LED mounted on different substrate packages
Authors: Raypah Muna E. , Devarajan Mutharasu , Sulaiman Fauziah
Published: July 2017

The relationship between the photometric, electric, and thermal parameters of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is important for optimizing the LED illumination design. Indium gallium aluminium phosphide (InGaAlP)-based thin-film surface-mounted device (SMD) LEDs have attracted wide attention in research and development due to their portability and miniaturization. We report the optical characterization of InGaAlP thin-film SMD LED mounted on FR4, 2 W, and 5 W aluminum (Al) packages. The optical and thermal parameters of LED are determined at different injection currents and ambient temperatures by combining the T3ster (thermal transient tester) and TeraLED (thermal and radiometric characterization of power LEDs) systems. Analysis shows that LED on a 5 W Al substrate package obtains the highest luminous and optical efficiency.
VICTOR: genome-based phylogeny and classification of prokaryotic viruses
Authors: Meier-Kolthoff Jan P , Göker Markus
Published: July 2017

Motivation

Bacterial and archaeal viruses are crucial for global biogeochemical cycles and might well be game-changing therapeutic agents in the fight against multi-resistant pathogens. Nevertheless, it is still unclear how to best use genome sequence data for a fast, universal and accurate taxonomic classification of such viruses.

Results

We here present a novel in silico framework for phylogeny and classification of prokaryotic viruses, in line with the principles of phylogenetic systematics, and using a large reference dataset of officially classified viruses. The resulting trees revealed a high agreement with the classification. Except for low resolution at the family level, the majority of taxa was well supported as monophyletic. Clusters obtained with distance thresholds chosen for maximizing taxonomic agreement appeared phylogenetically reasonable, too. Analysis of an expanded dataset, containing >4000 genomes from public databases, revealed a large number of novel species, genera, subfamilies and families.

Availability and implementation

The selected methods are available as the easy-to-use web service ‘VICTOR’ at https://victor.dsmz.de.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
On Real and Rational Characters in Blocks
Authors: Navarro Gabriel , Robinson Geoffrey R , Tiep Pham Huu
Published: July 2017

The principal $p$-block of a finite group $G$ contains only one real-valued irreducible ordinary character exactly when $G/{{\bf O}_{p'}(G)}$ has odd order. For $p \ne 3$, the same happens with rational-valued characters. We also prove an analogue for $p$-Brauer characters with $p \geq 3$.
Neuro-immune interactions in allergic diseases: novel targets for therapeutics
Authors: Voisin Tiphaine , Bouvier Amélie , Chiu Isaac M
Published: July 2017

Recent studies have highlighted an emerging role for neuro-immune interactions in mediating allergic diseases. Allergies are caused by an overactive immune response to a foreign antigen. The peripheral sensory and autonomic nervous system densely innervates mucosal barrier tissues including the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal (GI) tract that are exposed to allergens. It is increasingly clear that neurons actively communicate with and regulate the function of mast cells, dendritic cells, eosinophils, Th2 cells and type 2 innate lymphoid cells in allergic inflammation. Several mechanisms of cross-talk between the two systems have been uncovered, with potential anatomical specificity. Immune cells release inflammatory mediators including histamine, cytokines or neurotrophins that directly activate sensory neurons to mediate itch in the skin, cough/sneezing and bronchoconstriction in the respiratory tract and motility in the GI tract. Upon activation, these peripheral neurons release neurotransmitters and neuropeptides that directly act on immune cells to modulate their function. Somatosensory and visceral afferent neurons release neuropeptides including calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P and vasoactive intestinal peptide, which can act on type 2 immune cells to drive allergic inflammation. Autonomic neurons release neurotransmitters including acetylcholine and noradrenaline that signal to both innate and adaptive immune cells. Neuro-immune signaling may play a central role in the physiopathology of allergic diseases including atopic dermatitis, asthma and food allergies. Therefore, getting a better understanding of these cellular and molecular neuro-immune interactions could lead to novel therapeutic approaches to treat allergic diseases.
The design of environmental markets: What have we learned from experience with cap and trade?
Authors: Schmalensee Richard , Stavins Robert N
Published: July 2017

This article reviews the design of environmental markets for pollution control over the past 30 years, and identifies key market-design lessons for future applications. The focus is on a subset of the cap-and-trade systems that have been implemented, planned, or proposed around the world. Three criteria led us to the selection of systems for review. First, among the broader class of tradable permit systems, our focus is exclusively on cap-and-trade mechanisms, thereby excluding emission-reduction-credit or offset programmes. Second, among cap-and-trade mechanisms, we examine only those that target pollution abatement, and so we do not include applications to natural resource management, such as individual transferable quota systems used to regulate fisheries. Third, we focus on the most prominent applications—those that are particularly important environmentally, economically, or both.
Social Media Use Before Bed and Sleep Disturbance Among Young Adults in the United States: A Nationally Representative Study
Authors: Levenson Jessica C , Shensa Ariel , Sidani Jaime E , Colditz Jason B , Primack Brian A
Published: July 2017

Study Objectives

Social media (SM) use has been positively associated with disturbed sleep among young adults. However, previous studies have not elucidated the specific importance of SM use immediately before bed. We aimed to determine the independent association of SM use during the 30 minutes before bed and disturbed sleep while controlling for covariates including total SM use throughout the day.

Methods

We assessed a nationally representative sample of 1763 US young adults aged 19–32. Participants estimated to what extent they used SM in the 30 minutes before bed. We assessed sleep disturbance using the brief Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®) Sleep Disturbance measure. After testing the proportional odds assumption, we used ordered logistic regression to compute the independent association between SM use before bed and sleep disturbance controlling for covariates, including total SM use.

Results

Compared with those who rarely or very rarely check SM in the 30 minutes before bed, those who often or very often check SM at that time had an adjusted odds ratio of 1.62 (95% confidence interval = 1.31–2.34) for increased sleep disturbance. Additionally, we found a significant linear trend in the odds ratios between the frequency of checking SM in the 30 minutes before bed and increased sleep disturbance (p = .007). Results were consistent in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

SM use in the 30 minutes before bed is independently associated with disturbed sleep among young adults. Future work should use qualitative and experimental methods to further elucidate the directionality of—and mechanisms underlying—this association.
The interactive impact of root branch order and soil genetic horizon on root respiration and nitrogen concentration
Authors: Trocha Lidia K. , Bułaj Bartosz , Kutczyńska Paulina , Mucha Joanna , Rutkowski Paweł , Zadworny Marcin
Published: July 2017

In general, respiration (RS) is highly correlated with nitrogen concentration (N) in plant organs, including roots, which exhibit a positive N–RS relationship. Less is known, however, about the relationship between N and RS in roots of different branch orders within an individual tree along a vertical soil profile; this is especially true in trees with contrasting life strategies, such as pioneer Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) vs mid-successional sessile oak (Quercus petraea Liebl.). In the present research, the impact of root branch order, as represented by those with absorptive vs transporting ability, and soil genetic horizon on root N, RS and the N–RS relationship was examined. Mean RS and total N concentration differed significantly among root branch orders and was significantly higher in absorptive roots than in transporting roots. The soil genetic horizon differentially affected root RS in Scots pine vs sessile oak. The genetic horizon mostly affected RS in absorptive roots of Scots pine and transporting roots in sessile oak. Root N was the highest in absorptive roots and most affected by soil genetic horizon in both tree species. Root N was not correlated with soil N, although N levels were higher in roots growing in fertile soil genetic horizons. Overall, RS in different root branch orders was positively correlated with N in both species. The N–RS relationship in roots, pooled by soil genetic horizon, was significant in both species, but was only significant in sessile oak when roots were pooled by root branch order. In both tree species, a significant interaction was found between the soil genetic horizon and root branch order with root function; however, species-specific responses were found. Both root N, which was unaffected by soil N, and the positive N–RS relationship consistently observed in different genetic horizons suggest that root function prevails over environmental factors, such as soil genetic horizon.