bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Diffusion of Rejuvenators and Its Effect on Aged Bitumen Binder
Authors: Xiao Yue , Li Chao , Wan Miao , Zhou Xinxing , Wang Yefei , Wu Shaopeng
Published: April 2017

Aged asphalt mixture is heavily involved in pavement maintenance and renewed construction because of the development of recycling techniques. The aged bitumen binder has partially lost its viscous behavior. Rejuvenators are therefore designed and used in this recycling procedure to enhance the behavior of such aged reclaimed bitumen. However, tests have not yet been clearly specified to understand the diffusion characteristics of rejuvenators in aged bitumen. In this research, molecular dynamic simulation is proposed and conducted with Materials Studio software to study the diffusion behavior of rejuvenators in aged bitumen at the molecular level. Two rejuvenators, named R-1 and R-2, were included. The difference between these two rejuvenators is their chemical composition of C=O. The diffusion coefficient is determined by studying the molecular movement. Results illustrate that the proposed models can be used to study the diffusion of rejuvenators in aged bitumen sufficiently. In the meantime, a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) is used to evaluate the recovery influence on aged bitumen resulting from rejuvenators. The experimental results strengthen the model simulations and indicate that the aging index of bitumen has a significant influence on the rejuvenating effect. Research results indicate that rejuvenators have a sufficient rejuvenating effect on the long-term aged bitumen and a limited effect on short-term aged bitumen.
A Three-Dimensional Resonant Triggering Probe for Micro-CMM
Authors: Huang Qiangxian , Chen Chen , Wu Kui , Zhang Liansheng , Li Ruijun , Fan Kuang-Chao
Published: April 2017

To achieve true 3D nano-measurement with sub-nanometer resolution and very low touch force through a micro/nano coordinate measuring machine, a new 3D resonant trigger probe based on a quartz tuning fork is proposed. In this trigger probe, a quartz tuning fork with a microsphere tip vibrates at its resonant frequency, and is used as the sensing element. The resonance parameters of this quartz tuning fork (e.g., vibrating amplitude and resonant frequency) are extremely sensitive to external 3D microforces. The distinguished feature of this probe is its ability to interact with the sample surface in the actual three directions. The microsphere tip of the probe interacts with the sample surface in tapping mode in the Z direction, whereas it interacts in friction mode in the X and Y directions. The dynamic contact mechanism of the probe is based on interfacial force theory, and mechanical models of the interactions between the microsphere tip and sample surface in the X, Y, and Z directions are constructed and simulated. The experiment shows that the probe has sub-nanometer resolution in 3D directions and triggers repeatability of approximately 40 nm in each direction. Theoretical analysis and experimental results verify that this 3D resonant trigger probe can be used for true 3D profile measurement.
Use of Recombinant Mucin Glycoprotein to Assess the Interaction of the Gastric Pathogen Helicobacter pylori with the Secreted Human Mucin MUC5AC
Authors: Dunne Ciara , McDermot Anthony , Anjan Kumar , Ryan Aindrias , Reid Colm , Clyne Marguerite
Published: April 2017

There is intense interest in how bacteria interact with mucin glycoproteins in order to colonise mucosal surfaces. In this study, we have assessed the feasibility of using recombinant mucin glycoproteins to study the interaction of the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori with MUC5AC, a mucin which the organism exhibits a distinct tropism for. Stable clonal populations of cells expressing a construct encoding for a truncated version of MUC5AC containing N- and C-termini interspersed with two native tandem repeat sequences (N + 2TR + C) were generated. Binding of H. pylori to protein immunoprecipitated from cell lysates and supernatants was assessed. High molecular weight mucin could be detected in both cell lysates and supernatants of transfected cells. Recombinant protein formed high molecular weight oligomers, was both N and O glycosylated, underwent cleavage similar to native MUC5AC and was secreted from the cell. H. pylori bound better to secreted mucin than intracellular mucin suggesting that modifications on extracellular MUC5AC promoted binding. Lectin analysis demonstrated that secreted mucin was differentially glycosylated compared to intracellular mucin. H. pylori also bound to a recombinant C-terminus MUC5AC protein, but binding to this protein did not inhibit binding to the N + 2TR + C protein. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using recombinant mucins containing tandem repeat sequences to assess microbial mucin interactions.
Integrating Spatial Working Memory and Remote Memory: Interactions between the Medial Prefrontal Cortex and Hippocampus
Authors: Wirt Ryan , Hyman James
Published: April 2017

In recent years, two separate research streams have focused on information sharing between the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus (HC). Research into spatial working memory has shown that successful execution of many types of behaviors requires synchronous activity in the theta range between the mPFC and HC, whereas studies of memory consolidation have shown that shifts in area dependency may be temporally modulated. While the nature of information that is being communicated is still unclear, spatial working memory and remote memory recall is reliant on interactions between these two areas. This review will present recent evidence that shows that these two processes are not as separate as they first appeared. We will also present a novel conceptualization of the nature of the medial prefrontal representation and how this might help explain this area’s role in spatial working memory and remote memory recall.
AR Signaling and the PI3K Pathway in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Crumbaker Megan , Khoja Leila , Joshua Anthony
Published: April 2017

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related death in men worldwide. Aberrant signaling in the androgen pathway is critical in the development and progression of prostate cancer. Despite ongoing reliance on androgen receptor (AR) signaling in castrate resistant disease, in addition to the development of potent androgen targeting drugs, patients invariably develop treatment resistance. Interactions between the AR and PI3K pathways may be a mechanism of treatment resistance and inhibitors of this pathway have been developed with variable success. Herein we outline the role of the PI3K pathway in prostate cancer and, in particular, its association with androgen receptor signaling in the pathogenesis and evolution of prostate cancer, as well as a review of the clinical utility of PI3K targeting.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor, a Key Tumor-Promoting Factor in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Owusu Benjamin , Galemmo Robert , Janetka James , Klampfer Lidija
Published: April 2017

The tumor microenvironment plays a key role in tumor development and progression. Stromal cells secrete growth factors, cytokines and extracellular matrix proteins which promote growth, survival and metastatic spread of cancer cells. Fibroblasts are the predominant constituent of the tumor stroma and Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), the specific ligand for the tyrosine kinase receptor c-MET, is a major component of their secretome. Indeed, cancer-associated fibroblasts have been shown to promote growth, survival and migration of cancer cells in an HGF-dependent manner. Fibroblasts also confer resistance to anti-cancer therapy through HGF-induced epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) and activation of pro-survival signaling pathways such as ERK and AKT in tumor cells. Constitutive HGF/MET signaling in cancer cells is associated with increased tumor aggressiveness and predicts poor outcome in cancer patients. Due to its role in tumor progression and therapeutic resistance, both HGF and MET have emerged as valid therapeutic targets. Several inhibitors of MET and HGF are currently being tested in clinical trials. Preclinical data provide a strong indication that inhibitors of HGF/MET signaling overcome both primary and acquired resistance to EGFR, HER2, and BRAF targeting agents. These findings support the notion that co-targeting of cancer cells and stromal cells is required to prevent therapeutic resistance and to increase the overall survival rate of cancer patients. HGF dependence has emerged as a hallmark of therapeutic resistance, suggesting that inhibitors of biological activity of HGF should be included into therapeutic regimens of cancer patients.
Quantitative Structure-Thermostability Relationship of Late Transition Metal Catalysts in Ethylene Oligo/Polymerization
Authors: Yang Wenhong , Ma Zhifeng , Yi Jun , Sun Wen-Hua
Published: April 2017

Quantitative structure–thermostability relationship was carried out for four series of bis(imino)pyridine iron (cobalt) complexes and α-diimine nickel complexes systems in ethylene oligo/polymerization. Three structural parameters were correlated with thermal stability, including bond order of metal-nitrogen (B), minimum distance (D) between central metal and ortho-carbon atoms on the aryl moiety and dihedral angle (α) of a central five-membered ring. The variation degree of catalytic activities between optimum and room temperatures (AT) was calculated to describe the thermal stability of the complex. By multiple linear regression analysis (MLRA), the thermal stability presents good correlation with three structural parameters with the correlation coefficients (R2) over 0.95. Furthermore, the contributions of each parameter were evaluated. Through this work, it is expected to help the design of a late transition metal complex with thermal stability at the molecular level.
Application of High-Velocity Oxygen-Fuel (HVOF) Spraying to the Fabrication of Yb-Silicate Environmental Barrier Coatings
Authors: Bakan Emine , Mauer Georg , Sohn Yoo , Koch Dietmar , Vaßen Robert
Published: April 2017

From the literature, it is known that due to their glass formation tendency, it is not possible to deposit fully-crystalline silicate coatings when the conventional atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) process is employed. In APS, rapid quenching of the sprayed material on the substrate facilitates the amorphous deposit formation, which shrinks when exposed to heat and forms pores and/or cracks. This paper explores the feasibility of using a high-velocity oxygen-fuel (HVOF) process for the cost-effective fabrication of dense, stoichiometric, and crystalline Yb2Si2O7 environmental barrier coatings. We report our findings on the HVOF process optimization and its resultant influence on the microstructure development and crystallinity of the Yb2Si2O7 coatings. The results reveal that partially crystalline, dense, and vertical crack-free EBCs can be produced by the HVOF technique. However, the furnace thermal cycling results revealed that the bonding of the Yb2Si2O7 layer to the Silicon bond coat needs to be improved.
Functionalisation of Colloidal Transition Metal Sulphides Nanocrystals: A Fascinating and Challenging Playground for the Chemist
Authors: Gross Silvia , Vittadini Andrea , Dengo Nicola
Published: April 2017

Metal sulphides, and in particular transition metal sulphide colloids, are a broad, versatile and exciting class of inorganic compounds which deserve growing interest and attention ascribable to the functional properties that many of them display. With respect to their oxide homologues, however, they are characterised by noticeably different chemical, structural and hence functional features. Their potential applications span several fields, and in many of the foreseen applications (e.g., in bioimaging and related fields), the achievement of stable colloidal suspensions of metal sulphides is highly desirable or either an unavoidable requirement to be met. To this aim, robust functionalisation strategies should be devised, which however are, with respect to metal or metal oxides colloids, much more challenging. This has to be ascribed, inter alia, also to the still limited knowledge of the sulphides surface chemistry, particularly when comparing it to the better established, though multifaceted, oxide surface chemistry. A ground-breaking endeavour in this field is hence the detailed understanding of the nature of the complex surface chemistry of transition metal sulphides, which ideally requires an integrated experimental and modelling approach. In this review, an overview of the state-of-the-art on the existing examples of functionalisation of transition metal sulphides is provided, also by focusing on selected case studies, exemplifying the manifold nature of this class of binary inorganic compounds.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, Photoluminescence Properties and Antibacterial Activity of a Zn(II) Coordination Polymer Based on a Paddle-Wheel Cluster
Authors: Meng Qingguo , Wang Lintong , Wang Dongfang , Yang Jianjian , Yue Chen , Lu Jitao
Published: April 2017

A binuclear Zn(II) complex of formula {[Zn(BCPPO)H2O]•3C2H5OH}n (1) [H2BCPPO = Bis 4-carboxyphenyl phenyl phosphine oxide] has been synthesized and structurally characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction, Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Thermogravimetric analysis (TG), Elemental analysis (EA) and Infrared spectroscopy (IR). As revealed by the single crystal X-ray diffraction, in the binuclear Zn(II) complex, two paddle-wheel-type Zn2 units were connected by four BCPPO ligands to form one-dimensional chains. Their antibacterial activity was evaluated by using a minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) benchmark. The binuclear Zn(II) complex shows excellent and long-term antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, the Photoluminescence properties of the binuclear Zn(II) complex was also investigated.
Fabrication of Low Dislocation Density, Single-Crystalline Diamond via Two-Step Epitaxial Lateral Overgrowth
Authors: Li Fengnan , Zhang Jingwen , Wang Xiaoliang , Zhang Minghui , Wang and Hongxing
Published: April 2017

Continuous diamond films with low dislocation density were obtained by two-step epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO). Grooves were fabricated by inductively coupled plasma etching. Mo/Pd stripes sputtered in the grooves were used to inhibit the propagation of dislocations originating from the diamond substrate. Coalescent diamond films were achieved by ELO via microwave plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. Etch-pits were formed intentionally to characterize the quality of the epitaxial films and distinguish different growth areas, as dislocations served as preferential sites for etching. In the window regions, a high density of dislocations, displayed as dense etch-pits, was generated. By contrast, the etch-pit density was clearly lower in the overgrowth regions. After the second ELO step, the dislocation density was further decreased. Raman spectroscopy analysis suggested that the lateral overgrowth of diamond is a promising method for achieving low dislocation density films.
Design and Implementation of SOC Prediction for a Li-Ion Battery Pack in an Electric Car with an Embedded System
Authors: Soylu Emel , Soylu Tuncay , Bayir Raif
Published: April 2017

Li-Ion batteries are widely preferred in electric vehicles. The charge status of batteries is a critical evaluation issue, and many researchers are studying in this area. State of charge gives information about how much longer the battery can be used and when the charging process will be cut off. Incorrect predictions may cause overcharging or over-discharging of the battery. In this study, a low-cost embedded system is used to determine the state of charge of an electric car. A Li-Ion battery cell is trained using a feed-forward neural network via Matlab/Neural Network Toolbox. The trained cell is adapted to the whole battery pack of the electric car and embedded via Matlab/Simulink to a low-cost microcontroller that proposed a system in real-time. The experimental results indicated that accurate robust estimation results could be obtained by the proposed system.
Where There is Life There is Mind: In Support of a Strong Life-Mind Continuity Thesis
Authors: Kirchhoff Michael D. , Froese Tom
Published: April 2017

This paper considers questions about continuity and discontinuity between life and mind. It begins by examining such questions from the perspective of the free energy principle (FEP). The FEP is becoming increasingly influential in neuroscience and cognitive science. It says that organisms act to maintain themselves in their expected biological and cognitive states, and that they can do so only by minimizing their free energy given that the long-term average of free energy is entropy. The paper then argues that there is no singular interpretation of the FEP for thinking about the relation between life and mind. Some FEP formulations express what we call an independence view of life and mind. One independence view is a cognitivist view of the FEP. It turns on information processing with semantic content, thus restricting the range of systems capable of exhibiting mentality. Other independence views exemplify what we call an overly generous non-cognitivist view of the FEP, and these appear to go in the opposite direction. That is, they imply that mentality is nearly everywhere. The paper proceeds to argue that non-cognitivist FEP, and its implications for thinking about the relation between life and mind, can be usefully constrained by key ideas in recent enactive approaches to cognitive science. We conclude that the most compelling account of the relationship between life and mind treats them as strongly continuous, and that this continuity is based on particular concepts of life (autopoiesis and adaptivity) and mind (basic and non-semantic).
Dynamic Rankings for Seed Selection in Complex Networks: Balancing Costs and Coverage
Authors: Jankowski Jarosław
Published: April 2017

Information spreading processes within the complex networks are usually initiated by a selection of highly influential nodes in accordance with the used seeding strategy. The majority of earlier studies assumed the usage of selected seeds at the beginning of the process. Our previous research revealed the advantage of using a sequence of seeds instead of a single stage approach. The current study extends sequential seeding and further improves results with the use of dynamic rankings, which are created by recalculation of network measures used for additional seed selection during the process instead of static ranking computed only once at the beginning. For calculation of network centrality measures such as degree, only non-infected nodes are taken into account. Results showed increased coverage represented by a percentage of activated nodes dependent on intervals between recalculations as well as the trade-off between outcome and computational costs. For over 90% of simulation cases, dynamic rankings with a high frequency of recalculations delivered better coverage than approaches based on static rankings.
Entropy Generation of Double Diffusive Forced Convection in Porous Channels with Thick Walls and Soret Effect
Authors: Torabi Mohsen , Torabi Mehrdad , Peterson G.P.
Published: April 2017

The second law performance of double diffusive forced convection in a horizontal porous channel with thick walls was considered. The Soret effect is included in the concentration equation and the first order chemical reaction was chosen for the concentration boundary conditions at the porous-solid walls interfaces. This investigation is focused on two principal types of boundary conditions. The first assumes a constant temperature condition at the outer surfaces of the solid walls, and the second assumes a constant heat flux at the lower wall and convection heat transfer at the upper wall. After obtaining the velocity, temperature and concentration distributions, the local and total entropy generation formulations were used to visualize the second law performance of the two cases. The results indicate that the total entropy generation rate is directly related to the lower wall thickness. Interestingly, it was observed that the total entropy generation rate for the second case reaches a minimum value, if the upper and lower wall thicknesses are chosen correctly. However, this observation was not true for the first case. These analyses can be useful for the design of microreactors and microcombustor systems when the second law analysis is taken into account.
Multilevel Integration Entropies: The Case of Reconstruction of Structural Quasi-Stability in Building Complex Datasets
Authors: Maletić Slobodan , Zhao Yi
Published: April 2017

The emergence of complex datasets permeates versatile research disciplines leading to the necessity to develop methods for tackling complexity through finding the patterns inherent in datasets. The challenge lies in transforming the extracted patterns into pragmatic knowledge. In this paper, new information entropy measures for the characterization of the multidimensional structure extracted from complex datasets are proposed, complementing the conventionally-applied algebraic topology methods. Derived from topological relationships embedded in datasets, multilevel entropy measures are used to track transitions in building the high dimensional structure of datasets captured by the stratified partition of a simplicial complex. The proposed entropies are found suitable for defining and operationalizing the intuitive notions of structural relationships in a cumulative experience of a taxi driver’s cognitive map formed by origins and destinations. The comparison of multilevel integration entropies calculated after each new added ride to the data structure indicates slowing the pace of change over time in the origin-destination structure. The repetitiveness in taxi driver rides, and the stability of origin-destination structure, exhibits the relative invariance of rides in space and time. These results shed light on taxi driver’s ride habits, as well as on the commuting of persons whom he/she drove.
Selecting the Lag Length for the MGLS Unit Root Tests with Structural Change: A Warning Note for Practitioners Based on Simulations
Authors: Quineche Ricardo , Rodríguez Gabriel
Published: April 2017

This is a simulation-based warning note for practitioners who use the M G L S unit root tests in the context of structural change using different selection lag length criteria. With T = 100 , we find severe oversize problems when using some criteria, while other criteria produce an undersizing behavior. In view of this dilemma, we do not recommend using these tests. While such behavior tends to disappear when T = 250 , it is important to note that most empirical applications use smaller sample sizes such as T = 100 or T = 150 . The A D F G L S test does not present an oversizing or undersizing problem. The only disadvantage of the A D F G L S test arises in the presence of M A ( 1 ) negative correlation, in which case the M G L S tests are preferable, but in all other cases they are very undersized. When there is a break in the series, selecting the breakpoint using the Supremum method greatly improves the results relative to the Infimum method.
Developing an Input-Output Based Method to Estimate a National-Level Energy Return on Investment (EROI)
Authors: Brand-Correa Lina , Brockway Paul , Copeland Claire , Foxon Timothy , Owen Anne , Taylor Peter
Published: April 2017

Concerns have been raised that declining energy return on energy investment (EROI) from fossil fuels, and low levels of EROI for alternative energy sources, could constrain the ability of national economies to continue to deliver economic growth and improvements in social wellbeing while undertaking a low-carbon transition. However, in order to test these concerns on a national scale, there is a conceptual and methodological gap in relation to calculating a national-level EROI and analysing its policy implications. We address this by developing a novel application of an Input-Output methodology to calculate a national-level indirect energy investment, one of the components needed for calculating a national-level EROI. This is a mixed physical and monetary approach using Multi-Regional Input-Output data and an energy extension. We discuss some conceptual and methodological issues relating to defining EROI for a national economy, and describe in detail the methodology and data requirements for the approach. We obtain initial results for the UK for the period 1997–2012, which show that the country’s EROI has been declining since the beginning of the 21st Century. We discuss the policy relevance of measuring national-level EROI and propose avenues for future research.
Validation of the Measurement Characteristics in an Instrument for Power Quality Estimation—A Case Study
Authors: Masnicki Romuald
Published: April 2017

An acceptable quality of electrical energy is seen today as an important component of ecology. Several instruments for estimating the quality of electrical power have been elaborated. Each supplier assures that the instrument meets the applicable standards and that the uncertainty of the measurement results obtained using the instrument does not exceed the established levels. The accuracy of the measurement results depends on a couple of things, e.g., the correctness of the measurement algorithms implemented in the instrument and the quality of its calibration. In this paper, the basic features of an “estimator/analyzer” (E/A) instrument, as well as the calibration methods of the instrument, the verification of its measurement algorithms, and also the obtained exemplary results, are shown. The proposal of the strategy of the reliable validation of embedded measurement algorithms for the identification of parameters characterizing electrical power quality in the power grid is discussed.
A Glowworm Swarm Optimization-Based Maximum Power Point Tracking for Photovoltaic/Thermal Systems under Non-Uniform Solar Irradiation and Temperature Distribution
Authors: Jin Yi , Hou Wenhui , Li Guiqiang , Chen Xiao
Published: April 2017

The output power of a photovoltaic (PV) system depends on the external solar irradiation and its own temperature. In order to obtain more power from the PV system, the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is necessary. However, when the PV is partially shaded, there will be multiple peaks in the power-current (P-I) curve. The conventional MPPT methods may be invalid due to falling into the local peak. In addition, in a photovoltaic-thermal (PV/T) system, the non-uniform temperature distribution on PV will also occur, which complicates the situation. This paper presents a MPPT method with glowworm swarm optimization (GSO) for PV in a PV/T system under non-uniform solar irradiation and temperature distribution. In order to study the performance of the proposed method, the conventional methods including the perturbation and observe algorithm (P and O), and the fractional open-circuit voltage technique (FOCVT) are compared with it in this paper. Simulation results show that the proposed method can rapidly track the real maximum power point (MPP) under different conditions, such as the gradient temperature distribution, the fast variable solar irradiation and the variable partial shading. The outcome indicates the proposed method has obvious advantages, especially the performance being superior to the conventional methods under the partial shading condition.
A Comparison of Organic and Steam Rankine Cycle Power Systems for Waste Heat Recovery on Large Ships
Authors: Andreasen Jesper , Meroni Andrea , Haglind Fredrik
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a comparison of the conventional dual pressure steam Rankine cycle process and the organic Rankine cycle process for marine engine waste heat recovery. The comparison was based on a container vessel, and results are presented for a high-sulfur (3 wt %) and low-sulfur (0.5 wt %) fuel case. The processes were compared based on their off-design performance for diesel engine loads in the range between 25% and 100%. The fluids considered in the organic Rankine cycle process were MM(hexamethyldisiloxane), toluene, n-pentane, i-pentane and c-pentane. The results of the comparison indicate that the net power output of the steam Rankine cycle process is higher at high engine loads, while the performance of the organic Rankine cycle units is higher at lower loads. Preliminary turbine design considerations suggest that higher turbine efficiencies can be obtained for the ORC unit turbines compared to the steam turbines. When the efficiency of the c-pentane turbine was allowed to be 10% points larger than the steam turbine efficiency, the organic Rankine cycle unit reaches higher net power outputs than the steam Rankine cycle unit at all engine loads for the low-sulfur fuel case. The net power production from the waste heat recovery units is generally higher for the low-sulfur fuel case. The steam Rankine cycle unit produces 18% more power at design compared to the high-sulfur fuel case, while the organic Rankine cycle unit using MM produces 33% more power.
Dynamic Simulation of an Organic Rankine Cycle—Detailed Model of a Kettle Boiler
Authors: Pili Roberto , Spliethoff Hartmut , Wieland Christoph
Published: April 2017

Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) are nowadays a valuable technology to produce electricity from low and medium temperature heat sources, e.g., in geothermal, biomass and waste heat recovery applications. Dynamic simulations can help improve the flexibility and operation of such plants, and guarantee a better economic performance. In this work, a dynamic model for a multi-pass kettle evaporator of a geothermal ORC power plant has been developed and its dynamics have been validated against measured data. The model combines the finite volume approach on the tube side and a two-volume cavity on the shell side. To validate the dynamic model, a positive and a negative step function in heat source flow rate is applied. The simulation model performed well in both cases. The liquid level appeared the most challenging quantity to simulate. A better agreement in temperature was achieved by increasing the volume flow rate of the geothermal brine by 2% over the entire simulation. Measurement errors, discrepancies in working fluid and thermal brine properties and uncertainties in heat transfer correlations can account for this. In the future, the entire geothermal power plant will be simulated, and suggestions to improve its dynamics and control by means of simulations will be provided.
A Fast-Acting Diagnostic Algorithm of Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor Open Circuit Faults for Power Inverters in Electric Vehicles
Authors: Yu Lei , Zhang Youtong , Huang Wenqing , Teffah Khaled
Published: April 2017

To improve the diagnostic detection speed in electric vehicles, a novel diagnostic algorithm of insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) open circuit faults for power inverters is proposed in this paper. The average of the difference between the actual three-phase current and referential three-phase current values over one electrical period is used as the diagnostic variable. The normalization method based on the amplitude of the d-q axis referential current is applied to the diagnostic variables to improve the response speed of diagnosis, and to avoid the noise and the delay caused by signal acquisition. In the parameter discretization process, the variable parameter moving average method (VPMAM) is adopted to solve the variation of the average value over a period with the speed of the motor; hence, the diagnostic reliability of the system is improved. This algorithm is robust, independent of load variations, and has a high resistivity against false alarms. Since only the three-phase current of the motor is utilized for calculations in the time domain, a fast diagnostic detection speed can be achieved, which is significantly essential for real-time control in electric vehicles. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified by both simulation and experimental results.
Role of Faults in Hydrocarbon Leakage in the Hammerfest Basin, SW Barents Sea: Insights from Seismic Data and Numerical Modelling
Authors: Ostanin Ilya , Anka Zahie , Di Primio Rolando
Published: April 2017

Hydrocarbon prospectivity in the Greater Barents Sea remains enigmatic as gas discoveries have dominated over oil in the past three decades. Numerous hydrocarbon-related fluid flow anomalies in the area indicate leakage and redistribution of petroleum in the subsurface. Many questions remain unanswered regarding the geological driving factors for leakage from the reservoirs and the response of deep petroleum reservoirs to the Cenozoic exhumation and the Pliocene-Pleistocene glaciations. Based on 2D and 3D seismic data interpretation, we constructed a basin-scale regional 3D petroleum systems model for the Hammerfest Basin (1 km × 1 km grid spacing). A higher resolution model (200 m × 200 m grid spacing) for the Snøhvit and Albatross fields was then nested in the regional model to further our understanding of the subsurface development over geological time. We tested the sensitivity of the modeled petroleum leakage by including and varying fault properties as a function of burial and erosion, namely fault capillary entry pressures and permeability during glacial cycles. In this study, we find that the greatest mass lost from the Jurassic reservoirs occurs during ice unloading, which accounts for a 60%–80% reduction of initial accumulated mass in the reservoirs. Subsequent leakage events show a stepwise decrease of 7%–25% of the remaining mass from the reservoirs. The latest episode of hydrocarbon leakage occurred following the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) when differential loading of Quaternary strata resulted in reservoir tilt and spill. The first modeled hydrocarbon leakage event coincides with a major fluid venting episode at the time of a major Upper Regional angular Unconformity (URU, ~0.8 Ma), evidenced by an abundance of pockmarks at this stratigraphic interval. Our modelling results show that leakage along the faults bounding the reservoir is the dominant mechanism for hydrocarbon leakage and is in agreement with observed shallow gas leakage indicators of gas chimneys, pockmarks and fluid escape pipes. We propose a conceptual model where leaked thermogenic gases from the reservoir were also locked in gas hydrate deposits beneath the base of the glacier during glaciations of the Hammerfest Basin and decomposed rapidly during subsequent deglaciation, forming pockmarks and fluid escape pipes. This is the first study to our knowledge to integrate petroleum systems modelling with seismic mapping of hydrocarbon leakage indicators for a holistic numerical model of the subsurface geology, thus closing the gap between the seismic mapping of fluid flow events and the geological history of the area.
Action, Passion, Crises
Authors: Goldberg Denis
Published: April 2017

The title of this speech is taken from a remark of the renowned Judge Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr: “When we were young our hearts were touched with ﬁre...[and as]...life is action and passion, it is required of [one] that [one] should share the passion and action of [one’s] time, at the peril of being judged not to have lived [...]
One-Year Results of a Synthetic Intervention Model for the Primary Prevention of T2D among Elderly Individuals with Prediabetes in Rural China
Authors: Hu Zhao , Qin Lulu , Xu Huilan
Published: April 2017

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a synthetic intervention model aimed at preventing type 2 diabetes and controlling plasma glucose, body weight and waist circumference in elderly individuals with prediabetes in rural China. Methods: We randomly assigned 434 (180 men and 254 women; mean age, 69 years; mean body mass index, 23.6 kg/m2) with prediabetes to either the intervention group or the control group. Each participant in the intervention group received synthetic intervention for 1 year. Results: The incidence of diabetes was 4.2% in the intervention group, versus 19.7% in the control group at the end of 1 year (p < 0.001). Compared with the control group, the intervention group experienced a great decrease in fasting glucose (−3.9 vs. 2.2 mg/dL, p < 0.001), body weight (−3.2 vs. 1.7 kg, p < 0.001), waist circumference (−2.4 vs. 1.0 cm, p < 0001), total cholesterol (−9.1 vs. −4.6 mg/dL. p = 0.014) and HbA1c (−1.0 vs. 0.1 mg %, p = 0.002) at the end of 1 year. Conclusions: The incidence of diabetes of the control group was higher than that of the intervention group. Besides, the synthetic intervention contributes to weight loss and glucose decrease, and may be effective in reducing the risk of diabetes among elderly individuals with prediabetes in rural China.
Gaseous Elemental Mercury and Total and Leached Mercury in Building Materials from the Former Hg-Mining Area of Abbadia San Salvatore (Central Italy)
Authors: Vaselli Orlando , Nisi Barbara , Rappuoli Daniele , Cabassi Jacopo , Tassi Franco
Published: April 2017

Mercury has a strong environmental impact since both its organic and inorganic forms are toxic, and it represents a pollutant of global concern. Liquid Hg is highly volatile and can be released during natural and anthropogenic processes in the hydrosphere, biosphere and atmosphere. In this study, the distribution of Gaseous Elemental Mercury (GEM) and the total and leached mercury concentrations on paint, plaster, roof tiles, concrete, metals, dust and wood structures were determined in the main buildings and structures of the former Hg-mining area of Abbadia San Salvatore (Siena, Central Italy). The mining complex (divided into seven units) covers a surface of about 65 ha and contains mining structures and managers’ and workers’ buildings. Nine surveys of GEM measurements were carried out from July 2011 to August 2015 for the buildings and structures located in Units 2, 3 and 6, the latter being the area where liquid mercury was produced. Measurements were also performed in February, April, July, September and December 2016 in the edifices and mining structures of Unit 6. GEM concentrations showed a strong variability in time and space mostly depending on ambient temperature and the operational activities that were carried out in each building. The Unit 2 surveys carried out in the hotter period (from June to September) showed GEM concentrations up to 27,500 ng·m−3, while in Unit 6, they were on average much higher, and occasionally, they saturated the GEM measurement device (>50,000 ng·m−3). Concentrations of total (in mg·kg−1) and leached (in μg·L−1) mercury measured in different building materials (up to 46,580 mg·kg−1 and 4470 mg·L−1, respectively) were highly variable, being related to the edifice or mining structure from which they were collected. The results obtained in this study are of relevant interest for operational cleanings to be carried out during reclamation activities.
Advanced Stage at Presentation Remains a Major Factor Contributing to Breast Cancer Survival Disparity between Public and Private Hospitals in a Middle-Income Country
Authors: Kong Yek-Ching , Bhoo-Pathy Nirmala , Subramaniam Shridevi , Bhoo-Pathy Nanthini , Taib Nur , Jamaris Suniza , Kaur Kiran , See Mee-Hoong , Ho Gwo-Fuang , Yip Cheng-Har
Published: April 2017

Background: Survival disparities in cancer are known to occur between public and private hospitals. We compared breast cancer presentation, treatment and survival between a public academic hospital and a private hospital in a middle-income country. Methods: The demographics, clinical characteristics, treatment and overall survival (OS) of 2767 patients with invasive breast carcinoma diagnosed between 2001 and 2011 in the public hospital were compared with 1199 patients from the private hospital. Results: Compared to patients in the private hospital, patients from the public hospital were older at presentation, and had more advanced cancer stages. They were also more likely to receive mastectomy and chemotherapy but less radiotherapy. The five-year OS in public patients was significantly lower than in private patients (71.6% vs. 86.8%). This difference was largely attributed to discrepancies in stage at diagnosis and, although to a much smaller extent, to demographic differences and treatment disparities. Even following adjustment for these factors, patients in the public hospital remained at increased risk of mortality compared to their counterparts in the private hospital (Hazard Ratio: 1.59; 95% Confidence Interval: 1.36–1.85). Conclusion: Late stage at diagnosis appears to be a major contributing factor explaining the breast cancer survival disparity between public and private patients in this middle-income setting.
Health Risk Assessment of Indoor Air Quality, Socioeconomic and House Characteristics on Respiratory Health among Women and Children of Tirupur, South India
Authors: Rumchev Krassi , Zhao Yun , Spickett Jeffery
Published: April 2017

Background: Indoor air pollution is still considered as one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide and especially in developing countries, including India. This study aims to assess social, housing, and indoor environmental factors associated with respiratory health among mothers and children. Methods: The study was conducted in the city of Tirupur, South India. We quantitatively assessed the indoor exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and carbon monoxide in relation to respiratory health among women and children. Information on health status, household characteristics and socioeconomic factors was collected using a modified standardised questionnaire. Results: This study demonstrates the significant health impact of housing and socioeconomic characteristics on the burden of respiratory illness among women and children in urban South India. Increased respiratory symptoms were recorded among women and children from low income households, and those who allowed smoking inside. The mean PM2.5 concentration measured in this study was 3.8 mg/m3 which exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) 24 h guideline value of 0.025 mg/m3. Conclusions: This study is the first to our knowledge carried out in urban South India and the findings can be used for future intervention studies.
Can Early Rehabilitation Prevent Posttraumatic Osteoarthritis in the Patellofemoral Joint after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Rupture? Understanding the Pathological Features
Authors: Chang Nai-Jen , Shie Ming-You , Lee Kuan-Wei , Chou Pei-Hsi , Lin Chih-Chan , Chu Chih-Jou
Published: April 2017

Knee instability resulting from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is a high-risk factor for posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) in the patellofemoral joint (PFJ). However, whether non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing treatments have chondroprotective effects remains unclear. Twenty-four adult New Zealand White male rabbits were employed in this study. All animals received ACL transection in the right knee and sham surgery in the left knee. The rabbits were randomly assigned to the following groups: (I) In the sedentary (SED) group, the rabbits (n = 6) were simply kept in their cage; (II) In the continuous passive motion (CPM) group, the rabbits (n = 6) performed CPM exercise for 7 days, starting from the first postoperative day; (III) In the active treadmill exercise (TRE) group, the rabbits (n = 6) performed TRE for 2 weeks; (IV) In the CPM + TRE group, the rabbits (n = 6) executed CPM exercise, followed by TRE. Two joint surfaces (the retropatella and femoral trochlear groove) were assessed at 4 weeks after operation. Although the gross appearance in each group was comparable, histological examination revealed significant differences in the articular cartilage status. The CPM group exhibited a greater thickness of articular cartilage, maintenance of tidemark continuity, abundant glycosaminoglycan (GAG), and significantly lower inflammatory cytokine 9, e.g., tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) 0 levels, with modest cell apoptosis (i.e., caspase-3). By contrast, the TRE group displayed the worst pathological features: an irregular cartilage surface and chondrocyte disorganization, reduced cartilage thickness, breakdown of the tidemark, depletion of collagen fibers, loss of GAG, and the highest levels of TNF-α and caspase-3 expression. Furthermore, the CPM + TRE group had more favorable outcomes than the SED group, indicating that suitable exercise is needed. The sham treatment displayed no variance in the changes in the two joint surfaces among groups. These data indicate that the application of early CPM rehabilitation is suggested for subjects in order to decrease the risk of PTOA without ACL reconstruction in the PFJ compartment in rabbits. The early TRE program, however, had harmful outcomes. Additionally, inactivity was discovered to initiate the development of PTOA.
Suppression of GHS-R in AgRP Neurons Mitigates Diet-Induced Obesity by Activating Thermogenesis
Authors: Wu Chia-Shan , Bongmba Odelia , Yue Jing , Lee Jong , Lin Ligen , Saito Kenji , Pradhan Geetali , Li De-Pei , Pan Hui-Lin , Xu Allison , Guo Shaodong , Xu Yong , Sun Yuxiang
Published: April 2017

Ghrelin, an orexigenic hormone released primarily from the gut, signals the hypothalamus to stimulate growth hormone release, enhance appetite and promote weight gain. The ghrelin receptor, aka Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor (GHS-R), is highly expressed in the brain, with highest expression in Agouti-Related Peptide (AgRP) neurons of the hypothalamus. We recently reported that neuron-specific deletion of GHS-R completely prevents diet-induced obesity (DIO) in mice by activating non-shivering thermogenesis. To further decipher the specific neuronal circuits mediating the metabolic effects of GHS-R, we generated AgRP neuron-specific GHS-R knockout mice (AgRP-Cre;Ghsrf/f). Our data showed that GHS-R in AgRP neurons is required for ghrelin’s stimulatory effects on growth hormone secretion, acute food intake and adiposity, but not for long-term total food intake. Importantly, deletion of GHS-R in AgRP neurons attenuated diet-induced obesity (DIO) and enhanced cold-resistance in mice fed high fat diet (HFD). The HFD-fed knockout mice showed increased energy expenditure, and exhibited enhanced thermogenic activation in both brown and subcutaneous fat; this implies that GHS-R suppression in AgRP neurons enhances sympathetic outflow. In summary, our results suggest that AgRP neurons are key site for GHS-R mediated thermogenesis, and demonstrate that GHS-R in AgRP neurons plays crucial roles in governing energy utilization and pathogenesis of DIO.