bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of a Detailed Vegetation Database on Simulated Meteorological Fields, Biogenic VOC Emissions, and Ambient Pollutant Concentrations over Japan
Authors: Chatani Satoru , Okumura Motonori , Shimadera Hikari , Yamaji Kazuyo , Kitayama Kyo , Matsunaga Sou N.
Published: May 2018

Regional air quality simulations provide powerful tools for clarifying mechanisms of heavy air pollution and for considering effective strategies for better air quality. This study introduces a new vegetation database for Japan, which could provide inputs for regional meteorological modeling, and estimating emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs), both of which are essential components of simulations. It includes newly developed emission factors (EFs) of BVOCs for major vegetation types in Japan, based on existing literature. The new database contributes to improved modeling of meteorological fields due to its updated representation of larger urban areas. Using the new vegetation and EF database, lower isoprene and monoterpene, and higher sesquiterpene emissions are estimated for Japan than those derived from previously available default datasets. These slightly reduce the overestimation of ozone concentrations obtained by a regional chemical transport model, whereas their effects on underestimated secondary organic aerosol (SOA) concentrations are marginal. Further work is necessary, not only on BVOC emissions but also the other simulation components, to further improve the modeling of ozone and SOA concentrations in Japan.
Carbonaceous Aerosols in the Atmosphere
Authors: Contini Daniele , Vecchi Roberta , Viana Mar
Published: May 2018

Scientific understanding of the processes involving carbonaceous aerosols in atmosphere is extremely important for both the climate and human health. This explains the increasing scientiﬁc interest in characterising these chemical species [1,2].[...]
Next Generation—Sébastien R. Mouchet
Authors: Garcia-Campmany Lidia
Published: May 2018

Next Generation is a series of interviews with the awardees of the Biomimetics Travel Awards aimed at supporting early-career researchers and helping them promote their work. Sébastien R. Mouchet is a postdoctoral fellow in the Natural Photonics group led by Prof. Pete Vukusic at the University of Exeter, UK, working in collaboration with his former Ph.D. supervisor, Prof. Olivier Deparis, at the University of Namur, Belgium. His research focuses on fluorescence emission and coloration changes in photonic structures of insects induced by contact with fluids aiming to develop bioinspired technological solutions for chemical sensing and biosensing.
Alterations of Oxidative Phosphorylation Complexes in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Zimmermann Franz A. , Neureiter Daniel , Sperl Wolfgang , Mayr Johannes A. , Kofler Barbara
Published: May 2018

The papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common malignant tumor of the thyroid gland, with disruptive mutations in mitochondrial complex I subunits reported at very low frequency. Furthermore, metabolic diversity of PTC has been postulated owing to variable messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of genes encoding subunits of the oxidative phosphorylation (OXHPOS) complexes. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the metabolic diversity of the OXPHOS system at the protein level by using immunohistochemical staining. Analysis of 18 human PTCs revealed elevated mitochondrial biogenesis but significantly lower levels of OXPHOS complex I in the tumor tissue (p < 0.0001) compared to the adjacent normal tissue. In contrast, OXPHOS complexes II–V were increased in the majority of PTCs. In three PTCs, we found pathologic mutations within mitochondrially encoded complex I subunits. Our data indicate that PTCs are characterized by an oncocytic metabolic signature that is in low complex I is combined with elevated mitochondrial mass and high complex II–V levels, which might be an important factor for tumor formation.
Fabrication of Poly(o/m-Toluidine)–SiC/Zinc Bilayer Coatings and Evaluation of Their Corrosion Resistances
Authors: Hu Chuanbo , Li Ying , Zhang Jiawei , Huang Wenlong
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this research was to study the structure and corrosion resistance of poly(o/m-toluidine)-SiC/zinc (Zn) bilayer coatings. Poly(o/m-toluidine) films, such as poly(o-toluidine) (POT) and poly(m-toluidine) (PMT), were chemically deposited on the surface of composite SiC/Zn coating using the solution evaporation method. The structures of poly(o/m-toluidine) were characterized by various optic techniques and the electrochemical behavior was studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV). The structures and morphologies of the SiC/Zn coating were detected by Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Thereafter, the corrosion resistances of electrodeposited and bilayer coatings were investigated in 3.5% NaCl solution by electrochemical corrosion techniques and an accelerated immersion test. The results showed that the outer POT film exhibits a lower corrosion behavior with respect to PMT, which significantly reduces the corrosion rate of SiC/Zn coating and prolongs the service life of the zinc matrix. The conclusion demontrates that the stronger adsorptive POT film ensures the formed POT–SiC/Zn bilayer coatings possess a compact and low-defect surface, which facilitates POT film to develop its excellent barrier and passivation properties against corrosion.
Corsican Pine (Pinus laricio Poiret) Stand Management: Medium and Long Lasting Effects of Thinning on Biomass Growth
Authors: Picchio Rodolfo , Venanzi Rachele , Latterini Francesco , Marchi Enrico , Laschi Andrea , Lo Monaco Angela
Published: May 2018

With the aim of acquiring better comprehension of the ecological and productive aspects of the management of pine forests, we monitored logging damage and evaluated the effects of thinning on stand growth 20 years after the treatment in a Pinus laricio Poiret stand in central Italy. The objectives of the present study were to estimate the injury levels to the remaining trees after thinning; to assess logging damage in the long-term by monitoring residual trees at the end of thinning; to evaluate the effect of damage on the radial growth of trees; to assess the stand dynamics in relation to injury levels and the treatment applied in a twenty-year range; to understand a possible treatment return time; and to evaluate the existence of the “thinning shock”. The results were that 20 years after treatment, the stand dynamics showed a complete recovery; logging damage did not affect the radial growth of P. laricio over time; a second treatment seem to be sustainable starting from the fifteenth year after the previous treatment; and the thinning shock can be clearly evaluated in the first six to seven years after the treatment.
Voluntary Disclosure of Private Information and Unraveling in the Market for Lemons: An Experiment
Authors: Benndorf Volker
Published: May 2018

We experimentally analyze a lemons market with a labor-market framing. Sellers are referred to as “workers” and have the possibility to provide “employers” with costly but credible information about their “productivity”. Economic theory suggests that in this setup, unraveling takes place and a number of different types are correctly identified in equilibrium. While we do observe a substantial degree of information disclosure, we also find that unraveling is typically not as complete as predicted by economic theory. The behavior of both workers and employers impedes unraveling in that there is too little disclosure. Workers are generally reluctant to disclose their private information, and employers enforce this behavior by bidding less competitively if workers reveal compared to the case where they conceal information.
Chitinase mRNA Levels Determined by QPCR in Crab-Eating Monkey (Macaca fascicularis) Tissues: Species-Specific Expression of Acidic Mammalian Chitinase and Chitotriosidase
Authors: Uehara Maiko , Tabata Eri , Ishii Kazuhiro , Sawa Akira , Ohno Misa , Sakaguchi Masayoshi , Matoska Vaclav , Bauer Peter , Oyama Fumitaka
Published: May 2018

Mice and humans express two active chitinases: acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase) and chitotriosidase (CHIT1). Both chitinases are thought to play important roles in specific pathophysiological conditions. The crab-eating monkey (Macaca fascicularis) is one of the most frequently used nonhuman primate models in basic and applied biomedical research. Here, we performed gene expression analysis of two chitinases in normal crab-eating monkey tissues by way of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) using a single standard DNA molecule. Levels of AMCase and CHIT1 messenger RNAs (mRNAs) were highest in the stomach and the lung, respectively, when compared to other tissues. Comparative gene expression analysis of mouse, monkey, and human using monkey–mouse–human hybrid standard DNA showed that the AMCase mRNA levels were exceptionally high in mouse and monkey stomachs while very low in the human stomach. As for the CHIT1 mRNA, we detected higher levels in the monkey lung when compared with those of mouse and human. The differences of mRNA expression between the species in the stomach tissues were basically reflecting the levels of the chitinolytic activities. These results indicate that gene expression of AMCase and CHIT1 differs between mammalian species and requiring special attention in handling data in chitinase-related studies in particular organisms.
Development of Three-Dimensional Soil-Amplification Analysis Method for Screening for Seismic Damage to Buried Water-Distribution Pipeline Networks
Authors: Fujita Kohei , Ichimura Tsuyoshi , Kazama Motoki , Ohno Susumu , Sato Shingo
Published: May 2018

A soil-amplification analysis method is developed that uses high-resolution ground data and a three-dimensional nonlinear dynamic finite-element method to screen for possible areas of seismic damage to buried water-distribution pipeline networks. The method is applied to a cut-and-fill developed area in Japan, whose water-distribution pipeline network was severely damaged in the 2011 off the Pacific Coast of Tohoku Earthquake. The obtained soil amplification is compared with known points of pipeline damage to check the validity of the analysis. A sensitivity test is also conducted to account for uncertainties in the properties of the ground material. From the results, it is expected that the developed soil-amplification method could be used to screen for possible damage to buried pipelines in a given area, and used to support methods for estimating damage to buried pipelines based on observations and seismic indices.
The Physical Activity Patterns among Rural Chinese Adults: Data from China National Nutrition and Health Survey in 2010–2012
Authors: Ding Caicui , Song Chao , Yuan Fan , Zhang Yan , Feng Ganyu , Chen Zheng , Liu Ailing
Published: May 2018

China has experienced a rapid increase in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially in rural China. In addition to a dramatic increase in energy intake, the decrease in physical activity (PA) may be a reason. The study described the patterns and factors of physical activity and sedentary behaviors of 70,038 adults in rural China, based on data from the Chinese Nutrition and Health Survey (CNNHS) in 2010–2012. The mean working time of the employed subjects was 6.04 ± 1.3 day/week, 8.38 ± 2.2 h/day, of which 3.37 ± 2.8 h was sitting time. The occupational PA intensity was significantly relevant with occupation. The average transportation time of the rural Chinese adults was 57.9 ± 45.4 min, and 60.0% took the active transportation mode. The leisure-time PA (LTPA) participation rate was 3.8%, the LTPA time of those who had LTPA was 234.9 ± 231.3 min/week, lower participation was found in farmers and those in younger age groups, and those with lower educational and economic levels. The average domestic PA time, sedentary leisure-time, and sleeping time was 93.0 ± 72.7 min, 2.5 ± 1.4 h, and 7.9 ± 1.1 h, respectively. PA programs should be implemented in rural China, and the PA guidelines for farmers should be developed separately for the farming and non-farming seasons.
Housing, Housing Finance and Credit Risk
Authors: Canepa Alessandra , Khaled Fawaz
Published: May 2018

This paper investigates the determinants of credit risk from a broad perspective. Particular attention is given to the role of housing affordability and household indebtedness. However, the impact of credit market developments and regulations is also closely examined. Using a large panel of countries it is found that housing affordability and household fragility significantly affect the risk of banks’ loan portfolios. In addition, an analysis of the conditional quantiles of non-performing loan ratios reveals that financial institutions in countries with greater levels of financial liberalization and less regulated markets also experience greater credit risk.
Microsatellite Instability Occurs Rarely in Patients with Cholangiocarcinoma: A Retrospective Study from a German Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Winkelmann Ria , Schneider Markus , Hartmann Sylvia , Schnitzbauer Andreas A. , Zeuzem Stefan , Peveling-Oberhag Jan , Hansmann Martin Leo , Walter Dirk
Published: May 2018

Immune-modulating therapy is a promising therapy for patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Microsatellite instability (MSI) might be a favorable predictor for treatment response, but comprehensive data on the prevalence of MSI in CCA are missing. The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence of MSI in a German tertiary care hospital. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples, obtained in the study period from 2007 to 2015 from patients with CCA undergoing surgical resection with curative intention at Johann Wolfgang Goethe University hospital, were examined. All samples were investigated immunohistochemically for the presence of MSI (expression of MLH1, PMS2, MSH2, and MSH6) as well as by pentaplex polymerase chain reaction for five quasimonomorphic mononucleotide repeats (BAT-25, BAT-26, NR-21, NR-22, and NR-24). In total, 102 patients were included, presenting intrahepatic (n = 35, 34.3%), perihilar (n = 42, 41.2%), and distal CCA (n = 25, 24.5%). In the immunohistochemical analysis, no loss of expression of DNA repair enzymes was observed. In the PCR-based analysis, one out of 102 patients was found to be MSI-high and one out of 102 was found to be MSI-low. Thus, MSI seems to appear rarely in CCA in Germany. This should be considered when planning immune-modulating therapy trials for patients with CCA.
Unexpected Formation and Structural Characterization of a Dinuclear Sodium Half-Sandwich Complex
Authors: Harmgarth Nicole , Liebing Phil , Hilfert Liane , Busse Sabine , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: May 2018

Treatment of N,N′-diisopropylcarbodiimide with sodium cyclopentadienide (NaCp) in a molar ratio of 1:1 in THF solution resulted in formation of the unexpected dinuclear sodium half-sandwich complex [NaC5H3{C(NHiPr)(=NiPr)}2-1,2]2 (1) as colorless crystals in low yield. The newly formed ligand, which belongs to the group of 6-aminofulvene-2-aldiminate ligands, coordinates to sodium in an η5-coordination mode via the cyclopentadienyl ring. Dimerization occurs through additional chelating κN,N′-coordination of the amidine substituents. The NMR data of 1 indicated a slow dimer/monomer equilibrium in solution. A serendipitously isolated hydrolysis product, {µ-(iPrNH)2C=O}2[NaC5H3{C(NHiPr)(=NiPr)}2-1,2]2 (2), contains the new 6-aminofulvene-2-aldiminate ligand in the N,N′-chelating coordination mode with the cyclopentadiene ring being uncoordinated. In this case, dimerization occurs through the presence of two bridging neutral N,N′-diisopropylurea ligands. Both compounds have been structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction.
Nodular Lymphangitis (Sporotrichoid Lymphocutaneous Infections). Clues to Differential Diagnosis
Authors: Tirado-Sánchez Andrés , Bonifaz Alexandro
Published: May 2018

Nodular lymphangitis, also known as sporotrichoid lymphocutaneous infections, is characterized by suppurative inflammatory nodules along the lymphatic vessels. This manifestation is classic of sporotrichosis, however, other infections such as nocardiosis, atypical mycobacteriosis, leishmaniasis, among others, can also express this clinical pattern. Sporotrichosis, which often occurs in gardeners, remains the most recognized cause of nodular lymphangitis. The histopathological studies, as well as the culture are diagnostic standards of lesions that do not respond to empirical treatment. In this article, we will review the main causes of nodular lymphangitis or lymphocutaneous sporotrichoid infections.
Optimization of Wireless Sensor Networks Deployment Based on Probabilistic Sensing Models in a Complex Environment
Authors: Argany Meysam , Karimipour Farid , Mafi Fatemeh , Afghantoloee Ali
Published: May 2018

In recent years, wireless sensor networks have been studied in numerous cases. One of the important problems studied in these networks is the optimal deployment of sensors to obtain the maximum of coverage. Hence, in most studies, optimization algorithms have been used to achieve the maximum coverage. Optimization algorithms are divided into two groups of local and global optimization algorithms. Global algorithms generally use a random method based on an evolutionary process. In most of the conducted research, the environment model and, sometimes, the layout of sensors in the network have been considered in a very simplified form. In this research, by raster and vector modeling of the environment in two- and three-dimensional spaces, the function of global optimization algorithms was compared and assessed for optimal deployment of sensors and a vector environment model was used as a more accurate model. Since the purpose of this paper is to compare the performance and results of global algorithms, the studied region and the implementation conditions considered are the same for all applied algorithms. In this article, some optimization methods are considered for sensor deployment including genetic algorithms, L-BFGS, VFCPSO and CMA-ES, and the implementation and assessment criteria of algorithms for deployment of wireless sensor network are considered some factors such as the optimal coverage amount, their coverage accuracy towards the environment model and convergence speed of the algorithms. On the other hand, in this paper, the probability coverage model is implemented for each of the global optimization algorithms. The results of these implementations show that the presence of more complex parameters in environment model and coverage produce accurate results that are more consistent with reality. Nonetheless, it may reduce the time efficiency of algorithms.
Detailed Investigations on the Oil Flow in Dip-Lubricated Gearboxes by the Finite Volume CFD Method
Authors: Liu Hua , Jurkschat Thomas , Lohner Thomas , Stahl Karsten
Published: May 2018

Three main concerns are in the focus of the development of geared transmissions nowadays: load carrying capacity, noise–vibration–harshness (NVH) behavior, and efficiency. Increasing the efficiency of modern gearboxes contributes significantly to the reduction of energy consumption and the saving of resources. Gearboxes are frequently designed conservatively with an oversupply of oil to guarantee operational reliability. An oversupply of oil results in an unnecessarily high amount of oil kept in motion and to high no-load losses. Detailed information on the oil distribution in the early design stages of gearboxes would help to optimize the lubrication and to increase the efficiency. Thereby, CFD (computational fluid dynamics) methods offer a very flexible way to visualize the oil flow inside gearboxes with much fewer restrictions compared to measurements with transparent gearbox designs. In this study, a verified CFD model based on the finite volume method is used to investigate the oil flow in a single-stage gearbox. Different oil viscosities and circumferential speeds are considered. The investigations focus on the oil flow. The gear churning loss, as part of the no-load loss, is additionally considered. Experimental validation is obtained by high-speed camera recordings and measurements at the FZG no-load power loss test rig. The results show very strong agreement between simulation and measurement. The results show that CFD simulations can visualize the oil flow behavior with a very high degree of detail.
Design and Performance of Property Gradient Ternary Nitride Coating Based on Process Control
Authors: Yan Pei , Chen Kaijie , Wang Yubin , Zhou Han , Peng Zeyu , Jiao Li , Wang Xibin
Published: May 2018

Surface coating is an effective approach to improve cutting tool performance, and multiple or gradient coating structures have become a common development strategy. However, composition mutations at the interfaces decrease the performance of multi-layered coatings. The key mitigation technique has been to reduce the interface effect at the boundaries. This study proposes a structure design method for property-component gradient coatings based on process control. The method produces coatings with high internal cohesion and high external hardness, which could reduce the composition and performance mutations at the interface. A ZrTiN property gradient ternary nitride coating was deposited on cemented carbide by multi-arc ion plating with separated Ti and Zr targets. The mechanical properties, friction behaviors, and cutting performances were systematically investigated, compared with a single-layer coating. The results indicated that the gradient coating had better friction and wear performance with lower wear rate and higher resistance to peeling off during sliding friction. The gradient coating had better wear and damage resistance in cutting processes, with lower machined surface roughness Ra. Gradient-structured coatings could effectively inhibit micro crack initiation and growth under alternating force and temperature load. This method could be extended to similar ternary nitride coatings.
Damage Mechanisms and Mechanical Properties of High-Strength Multiphase Steels
Authors: Heibel Sebastian , Dettinger Thomas , Nester Winfried , Clausmeyer Till , Tekkaya A. Erman
Published: May 2018

The usage of high-strength steels for structural components and reinforcement parts is inevitable for modern car-body manufacture in reaching lightweight design as well as increasing passive safety. Depending on their microstructure these steels show differing damage mechanisms and various mechanical properties which cannot be classified comprehensively via classical uniaxial tensile testing. In this research, damage initiation, evolution and final material failure are characterized for commercially produced complex-phase (CP) and dual-phase (DP) steels in a strength range between 600 and 1000 MPa. Based on these investigations CP steels with their homogeneous microstructure are characterized as damage tolerant and hence less edge-crack sensitive than DP steels. As final fracture occurs after a combination of ductile damage evolution and local shear band localization in ferrite grains at a characteristic thickness strain, this strain measure is introduced as a new parameter for local formability. In terms of global formability DP steels display advantages because of their microstructural composition of soft ferrite matrix including hard martensite particles. Combining true uniform elongation as a measure for global formability with the true thickness strain at fracture for local formability the mechanical material response can be assessed on basis of uniaxial tensile testing incorporating all microstructural characteristics on a macroscopic scale. Based on these findings a new classification scheme for the recently developed high-strength multiphase steels with significantly better formability resulting of complex underlying microstructures is introduced. The scheme overcomes the steel designations using microstructural concepts, which provide no information about design and production properties.
Effect of the Functionalization of Porous Silicon/WO3 Nanorods with Pd Nanoparticles and Their Enhanced NO2-Sensing Performance at Room Temperature
Authors: Qiang Xiaoyong , Hu Ming , Zhao Boshuo , Qin Yue , Yang Ran , Zhou Liwei , Qin Yuxiang
Published: May 2018

The decoration of noble metal nanoparticles (NPs) on the surface of metal oxide semiconductors to enhance material characteristics and gas-sensing performance has recently attracted increasing attention from researchers worldwide. Here, we have synthesized porous silicon (PS)/WO3 nanorods (NRs) functionalized with Pd NPs to enhance NO2 gas-sensing performance. PS was first prepared using electrochemical methods and worked as a substrate. WO3 NRs were synthesized by thermally oxidizing W film on the PS substrate. Pd NPs were decorated on the surface of WO3 NRs via in-situ reduction of the Pd complex solution by using Pluronic P123 as the reducing agent. The gas-sensing characteristics were tested at different gas concentrations and different temperatures ranging from room temperature to 200 °C. Results revealed that, compared with bare PS/WO3 NRs and Si/WO3 NRs functionalized with Pd NPs, the Pd-decorated PS/WO3 NRs exhibited higher and quicker responses to NO2, with a detection concentration as low as 0.25 ppm and a maximum response at room temperature. The gas-sensing mechanism was also investigated and is discussed in detail. The high surface area to volume ratio of PS and the reaction-absorption mechanism can be explained the enhanced sensing performance.
L2-Harmonic Forms on Incomplete Riemannian Manifolds with Positive Ricci Curvature
Authors: Takahashi Junya
Published: May 2018

We construct an incomplete Riemannian manifold with positive Ricci curvature that has non-trivial L 2 -harmonic forms and on which the L 2 -Stokes theorem does not hold. Therefore, a Bochner-type vanishing theorem does not hold for incomplete Riemannian manifolds.
On Some Sufficiency-Type Stability and Linear State-Feedback Stabilization Conditions for a Class of Multirate Discrete-Time Systems
Authors: De la Sen M.
Published: May 2018

This paper presents and discusses the stability of a discrete multirate sampling system whose sets of sampling rates (or sampling periods) are the integer multiple of those operating on all the preceding substates. Each of such substates is associated with a particular sampling rate. The sufficiency-type stability conditions are derived based on simple conditions on the norm, spectral radius and numerical radius of the matrix of the dynamics of a system parameterized at the largest sampling period.
Characteristics of Ti6Al4V Powders Recycled from Turnings via the HDH Technique
Authors: Gökelma Mertol , Celik Dilara , Tazegul Onur , Cimenoglu Huseyin , Friedrich Bernd
Published: May 2018

The objective of this research is for Ti6Al4V alloy turnings, generated during the machining of implants, to produce powders for the fabrication of Ti base coating via the cold spray method. In order to decrease the cost of powder production and increase the recycling rate of the turnings, the hydrogenation-dehydrogenation (HDH) process has been utilised. The HDH process consists of the following sequence: surface conditioning of the turnings, hydrogenation, ball milling (for powder production), and dehydrogenation. Afterwards, the properties of the recycled powder were analysed via phase, chemical, and morphological examinations, and size and flowability measurements. Usability of the powder in additive manufacturing applications has been evaluated via examining the characteristics of the deposit produced from this powder by the cold spray method. In short, promising results were obtained regarding the potential of the recycled powders in additive manufacturing after making minor adjustments in the HDH process.
Optimization of Pulley-Type Ring Resonator with Waveguide Offset
Authors: Yen Meng-Hua , Feng Pei-Yu , Lin Chu-En , Chen Chii-Chang , Chang Jenq-Yang
Published: May 2018

In this work, we dealt with the optimization of the pulley-type ring resonator using the offset of the straight input and output waveguide at the junction with the curved waveguide. We adopted the finite-difference time-domain method to simulate the structure. It was found that the coupling loss could be significantly reduced and the critical coupling could be precisely tuned. This results in the possibility of the Q-factor being higher than that of the structure without waveguide offset. In this study, the Q-factor of the ring resonator is increased from 9180 to 11,302. The corresponding enhancement is 23.1%.
High-Precision Lens-Less Flow Cytometer on a Chip
Authors: Fang Yuan , Yu Ningmei , Jiang Yuquan , Dang Chaoliang
Published: May 2018

We present a flow cytometer on a microfluidic chip that integrates an inline lens-free holographic microscope. High-speed cell analysis necessitates that cells flow through the microfluidic channel at a high velocity, but the image sensor of the in-line holographic microscope needs a long exposure time. Therefore, to solve this problem, this paper proposes an S-type micro-channel and a pulse injection method. To increase the speed and accuracy of the hologram reconstruction, we improve the iterative initial constraint method and propose a background removal method. The focus images and cell concentrations can be accurately calculated by the developed method. Using whole blood cells to test the cell counting precision, we find that the cell counting error of the proposed method is less than 2%. This result shows that the on-chip flow cytometer has high precision. Due to its low price and small size, this flow cytometer is suitable for environments far away from laboratories, such as underdeveloped areas and outdoors, and it is especially suitable for point-of-care testing (POCT).
Metal Ion Release in Bastnaesite Flotation System and Implications for Flotation
Authors: Cao Shiming , Cao Yijun , Ma Zilong , Liao Yinfei
Published: May 2018

Ca2+, Mg2+, Sr2+ and Fe3+ were found to be commonly released into bastnaesite flotation pulp from minerals with relatively high concentrations. The influence and corresponding mechanism of Ca2+, Mg2+, Sr2+, Fe3+ and Al3+, on bastnaesite flotation, have been studied by micro flotation tests, induction time measurements, adsorption measurements and solution chemistry analysis. It was found that all aforementioned metal ions depressed bastnaesite flotation. The order of depression ability was Fe3+ > Al3+ > Mg2+ > Sr2+ > Ca2+ and the depression ability changed along with pH. The depression was mainly attributed to the adsorption of metals ions, which hindered collector adsorption. The species diagrams of metal ions changed along with pH, consequently changing the adsorption of metal ions on mineral surfaces, and therefore leading to different influences on flotation.
Production and Bioactivity-Guided Isolation of Antioxidants with α-Glucosidase Inhibitory and Anti-NO Properties from Marine Chitinous Materials
Authors: Nguyen Van Bon , Nguyen Thi Hanh , Doan Chien Thang , Tran Thi Ngoc , Nguyen Anh Dzung , Kuo Yao-Haur , Wang San-Lang
Published: May 2018

Natural and bioactive products have been of great interest due to their benefit as health foods and drugs to prevent various diseases. The aim of this study is to efficiently reuse marine chitinous materials (CMs), abundant and low-cost fishery by-products, for the bio-synthesis, isolation, and identification of antioxidant compounds possessing some other beneficial bioactivities. Paenibacillus sp. was used to convert CMs to antioxidants. Among various tested CMs, squid pen powder (SPP) gave the best results when used as the sole carbon/nitrogen source. Fermented SPP (FSPP) had comparable antioxidant activity (IC50 = 124 µg/mL) to that of α-tocopherol (IC50 = 30 µg/mL). The antioxidant productivity increased 1.83-fold after culture optimization. The use of multiple techniques, including Diaion, silica, and preparative HPLC columns coupled with a bioassay resulted in the isolation of two major antioxidants characterized as exopolysaccharides and homogentisic acid. These isolated compounds showed great maximum activity and low IC50 values (96%, 30 µg/mL and 99%, 5.4 µg/mL, respectively) which were comparable to that of α-tocopherol (95%, 24 µg/mL). The crude sample, fractions, and isolated compounds also demonstrated α-glucosidase inhibition and anti–inflammatory activity. Notably, homogentisic acid was found as a non-sugar-based moiety α-glucosidase inhibitor which show much higher inhibition (IC50 = 215 µg/mL) than that of acarbose (IC50 = 1324 µg/mL) and also possessed acceptable anti–inflammatory activity (IC50 = 9.8 µg/mL). The results highlighted the value of using seafood processing by-products, like squid pens, for the production of several compounds possessing multi-benefit bioactivities and no cytotoxicity.
Novel-Substituted Heterocyclic GABA Analogues. Enzymatic Activity against the GABA-AT Enzyme from Pseudomonas fluorescens and In Silico Molecular Modeling
Authors: Tovar-Gudiño Erika , Guevara-Salazar Juan Alberto , Bahena-Herrera José Raúl , Trujillo-Ferrara José Guadalupe , Martínez-Campos Zuleyma , Razo-Hernández Rodrigo Said , Santiago Ángel , Pastor Nina , Fernández-Zertuche Mario
Published: May 2018

γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and a deficiency of GABA is associated with serious neurological disorders. Due to its low lipophilicity, there has been an intensive search for new molecules with increased lipophilicity to cross the blood-brain barrier to raise GABA concentrations. We have designed and evaluated in vitro and in silico some new analogues of GABA, where the nitrogen atom at the γ-position is embedded in heterocyclic scaffolds and determined their inhibitory potential over the GABA-AT enzyme from Pseudomonas fluorescens. These modifications lead to compounds with inhibitory activity as it occurs with compounds 18a and 19a. The construction of Pseudomonas fluorescens and human GABA-AT models were carried out by homology modeling. Docking assays were done for these compounds over the GABA-AT enzyme models where 19a showed a strong interaction with both GABA-AT enzymes.
Supercritical Fluid Chromatography with Photodiode Array Detection in the Determination of Fat-Soluble Vitamins in Hemp Seed Oil and Waste Fish Oil
Authors: Tyśkiewicz Katarzyna , Gieysztor Roman , Maziarczyk Izabela , Hodurek Paweł , Rój Edward , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna
Published: May 2018

In the presented study for the first time a new, optimized, fast SFC (supercritical fluid chromatography) method was applied to separate in one run fat-soluble vitamins from waste fish oil, including cis-and trans-retinyl palmitate, cis- and trans-retinyl acetate, retinol, α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ‑tocopherol, δ-tocopherol, ergocalciferol (D2), cholecalciferol (D3), cis- and trans-phylloquinone (K1) and menaquinone-4 (K2-MK4). Vitamins were baseline separated on an Acquity UPC2 (ultra performance convergence chromatography) HSS C18 SB (highly strength chemically modified silica) column within 13 min. The influence of the stationary phase, such as Torus 1-AA (1-aminoanthracene), Torus Diol (high density diol), Torus DEA (diethylamine), BEH (silica with no bonding), BEH-2EP (2-ethylpirydine), CSH Fluoro-Phenyl (silica with fluoro-phenyl groups), column temperature, flow rate and back pressure on the separation of the compounds was described. The application of the modified saponification procedure allowed us to increase concentration in the sample prepared for the analysis of γ‑tocopherol from less than 1% (wt %) to 14% for the first time. In addition, α‑tocopherol, γ‑tocopherol, δ‑tocopherol and retinol were identified in waste fish oil. Vitamin purification and analysis in waste fish oil are reported for the first time here. Due to the short time and effectiveness of the proposed method, it can be easily applied in industrial processes.
Carbazole Derivatives’ Binding to c-KIT G-Quadruplex DNA
Authors: Głuszyńska Agata , Juskowiak Bernard , Kuta-Siejkowska Martyna , Hoffmann Marcin , Haider Shozeb
Published: May 2018

The binding affinities of three carbazole derivatives to the intramolecular G-quadruplex (GQ) DNA formed by the sequence 5′-AGGGAGGGCGCTGGGAGGAGGG-3′, derived from the c-KIT 1 oncogene region, were investigated. All carbazole cationic ligands that differed in the substituents on the nitrogen atom were able to stabilize G-quadruplex, as demonstrated using UV-Vis, fluorescence and CD spectroscopic techniques as well as molecular modeling. The spectrophotometric titration results showed spectral features characteristic of these ligands-bathochromic shifts and initial hypochromicity followed by hyperchromicity at higher GQ concentrations. All free carbazole ligands exhibited modest fluorescent properties, but after binding to the DNA the fluorescence intensity increased significantly. The binding affinities of carbazole ligands to the c-KIT 1 DNA were comparable showing values in the order of 105 M−1. Molecular modeling highlights the differences in interactions between each particular ligand and studied G-quadruplex, which potentially influenced binding strength. Obtained results relevant that all three investigated ligands have stabilization properties on studied G-quadruplex.
A Facile Approach for the Synthesis of Zn2SnO4/BiOBr Hybrid Nanocomposites with Improved Visible-Light Photocatalytic Performance
Authors: Jia Tiekun , Liu Ming , Yu Dongsheng , Long Fei , Mo Shuyi , Deng Zhao , Wang Weimin
Published: May 2018

In this study, a novel Zn2SnO4/BiOBr hybrid photocatalyst was prepared via a mild hydrothermal synthesis combined with a chemical deposition method. The morphological structure, chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties were comprehensively characterized by a series of measurement techniques. Morphological observation showed that fine Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles were anchored on the nanoplate surface of a flower-like BiOBr 3D hierarchical structure. The experimental results of UV-vis diffuse reflection spectroscopy revealed that the visible-light absorptive capacity of the Zn2SnO4/BiOBr hybrid photocatalyst was promoted, as compared to that of pure Zn2SnO4. Evidenced by electro-negativity theoretical calculation, Zn2SnO4 and BiOBr possessed matched band edges for accelerating photogenerated charge separation at the interface. The Zn2SnO4/BiOBr hybrid photocatalyst exhibited enhanced photocatalytic performance in the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible light irradiation. According to the band energy structure and the experimental results, the enhanced photocatalytic performance was ascribed to the improved visible-light absorptive capacity and the contact interface between Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles and BiOBr nanoplates, being able to favor the prompt charge migration and suppress the recombination of photogenerated carriers in the hybrid system.
Barrier Properties of Layered-Silicate Reinforced Ethylenepropylenediene Monomer/Chloroprene Rubber Nanorubbers
Authors: Wu Chang Mou , Hsieh Wen Yen , Cheng Kuo Bin , Lai Chiu-Chun , Lee Kuei Chi
Published: May 2018

The triacetin and nitroglycerin barrier properties of layered-silicate reinforced ethylenepropylenediene monomer/chloroprene rubber (EPDM/CR) nanorubbers were investigated as rocket-propellant inhibitors. EPDM/CR nanorubbers with intercalated structures were formulated and prepared by the melt-compounding method. The triacetin permeability and nitroglycerin absorption were observed to decrease with increasing layered-silicate content. The layered silicates also improved the flame retardancies of the nanorubbers by forming silicate reinforced carbonaceous chars. Layered-silicate reinforced EPDM/CR nanorubbers are potentially effective rocket propellant-inhibiting materials.
Daily Dietary Intake Patterns Improve after Visiting a Food Pantry among Food-Insecure Rural Midwestern Adults
Authors: Wright Breanne N. , Bailey Regan L. , Craig Bruce A. , Mattes Richard D. , McCormack Lacey , Stluka Suzanne , Franzen-Castle Lisa , Henne Becky , Mehrle Donna , Remley Dan , Eicher-Miller Heather A.
Published: May 2018

Emergency food pantries provide food at no cost to low-resource populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate single-day dietary intake patterns before and after visiting a food pantry among food-secure and food-insecure pantry clients. This observational cohort study comprised a paired, before-and-after design with a pantry visit as the intervention. Participants (n = 455) completed a demographic and food security assessment, and two 24-h dietary recalls. Adult food security was measured using the U.S. Household Food Security Survey Module. Dietary intake patterns were assessed using Automated Self-Administered 24-h Recall data and classified by Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2010) scores, dietary variety, number of eating occasions, and energy intake. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests compared outcomes before and after a pantry visit. Mean dietary variety increased after the pantry visit among both food-secure (p = 0.02) and food-insecure (p < 0.0001) pantry clients. Mean energy intake (p = 0.0003), number of eating occasions (p = 0.004), and HEI-2010 component scores for total fruit (p < 0.001) and whole fruit (p < 0.0003) increased among food-insecure pantry clients only. A pantry visit may improve dietary intake patterns, especially among food-insecure pantry clients.
Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases-Related Dietary Nutrient Profile in the UK (2008–2014)
Authors: Rauber Fernanda , Da Costa Louzada Maria Laura , Steele Eurídice , Millett Christopher , Monteiro Carlos Augusto , Levy Renata Bertazzi
Published: May 2018

We described the contribution of ultra-processed foods in the U.K. diet and its association with the overall dietary content of nutrients known to affect the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Cross-sectional data from the U.K. National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2008–2014) were analysed. Food items collected using a four-day food diary were classified according to the NOVA system. The average energy intake was 1764 kcal/day, with 30.1% of calories coming from unprocessed or minimally processed foods, 4.2% from culinary ingredients, 8.8% from processed foods, and 56.8% from ultra-processed foods. As the ultra-processed food consumption increased, the dietary content of carbohydrates, free sugars, total fats, saturated fats, and sodium increased significantly while the content of protein, fibre, and potassium decreased. Increased ultra-processed food consumption had a remarkable effect on average content of free sugars, which increased from 9.9% to 15.4% of total energy from the first to the last quintile. The prevalence of people exceeding the upper limits recommended for free sugars and sodium increased by 85% and 55%, respectively, from the lowest to the highest ultra-processed food quintile. Decreasing the dietary share of ultra-processed foods may substantially improve the nutritional quality of diets and contribute to the prevention of diet-related NCDs.
The Response of Vegetation Phenology and Productivity to Drought in Semi-Arid Regions of Northern China
Authors: Kang Wenping , Wang Tao , Liu Shulin
Published: May 2018

A major disturbance in nature, drought, has a significant impact on the vulnerability and resilience of semi-arid ecosystems by shifting phenology and productivity. However, due to the various disturbance mechanisms, phenology and primary productivity have remained largely ambiguous until now. This paper evaluated the spatio-temporal changes of phenology and productivity based on GIMMS NDVI3g time series data, and demonstrated the responses of vegetation phenology and productivity to drought disturbances with the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) in semi-arid ecosystems of northern China. The results showed that (1): vegetation phenology exhibited dramatic spatial heterogeneity with different rates, mostly presented in the regions with high chances of land cover type variation. The delayed onset of growing season (SOS) and advanced end of growing season (EOS) occurred in Horqin Sandy Land and the eastern Ordos Plateau with a one to three days/decade (p < 0.05) rate and in the middle and east of Inner Mongolia with a two days/decade rate, respectively. Vegetation productivity presented a clear pattern: south increased and north decreased. (2) Spring drought delayed SOS in grassland, barren/sparsely vegetated land, and cropland, while autumn drought significantly advanced EOS in grassland and barren/sparsely vegetated lands. Annual drought reduced vegetation productivity and the sensitivity of productivity regarding drought disturbance was higher than that of phenology.
A Cloud-Based Multi-Temporal Ensemble Classifier to Map Smallholder Farming Systems
Authors: Aguilar Rosa , Zurita-Milla Raul , Izquierdo-Verdiguier Emma , A. de By Rolf
Published: May 2018

Smallholder farmers cultivate more than 80% of the cropland area available in Africa. The intrinsic characteristics of such farms include complex crop-planting patterns, and small fields that are vaguely delineated. These characteristics pose challenges to mapping crops and fields from space. In this study, we evaluate the use of a cloud-based multi-temporal ensemble classifier to map smallholder farming systems in a case study for southern Mali. The ensemble combines a selection of spatial and spectral features derived from multi-spectral Worldview-2 images, field data, and five machine learning classifiers to produce a map of the most prevalent crops in our study area. Different ensemble sizes were evaluated using two combination rules, namely majority voting and weighted majority voting. Both strategies outperform any of the tested single classifiers. The ensemble based on the weighted majority voting strategy obtained the higher overall accuracy (75.9%). This means an accuracy improvement of 4.65% in comparison with the average overall accuracy of the best individual classifier tested in this study. The maximum ensemble accuracy is reached with 75 classifiers in the ensemble. This indicates that the addition of more classifiers does not help to continuously improve classification results. Our results demonstrate the potential of ensemble classifiers to map crops grown by West African smallholders. The use of ensembles demands high computational capability, but the increasing availability of cloud computing solutions allows their efficient implementation and even opens the door to the data processing needs of local organizations.
Inversion of Ground Penetrating Radar Data Based on Neural Networks
Authors: Liu Tao , Su Yi , Huang Chunlin
Published: May 2018

We present a novel inversion approach using a neural network to locate subsurface targets and evaluate their backscattering properties from ground penetrating radar (GPR) data. The presented inversion strategy constructs an adaptive linear element (ADALINE) neural network, whose configuration is related to the unknown properties of the targets. The GPR data is reconstructed (compression) to fit the structure of the neural network. The constructed neural network works with a supervised training mode, where a series of primary functions derived from the GPR signal model are used as the input, and the reconstructed GPR data is the expected/target output. In this way, inverting the GPR data is the equivalent of training the network. The back-propagation (BP) algorithm is employed for the training of the neural network. The numerical experiments show that the proposed approach can return an exact estimation for the target’s location. Under sparse conditions, an inverted backscattering intensity with a relative error lower than 3% was achieved, whereas for the multi-dominating point scenario, a higher error rate was observed. Finally, the limitations and further developments for the inverting GPR data with the neural network are discussed.