bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reviewing the Anaerobic Digestion of Food Waste: From Waste Generation and Anaerobic Process to Its Perspectives
Authors: Morales-Polo Carlos , Cledera-Castro María del Mar , Moratilla Soria B. Yolanda
Published: October 2018

Discharge of waste in general, and food waste, in particular, is considered one of the major environmental problems today, as waste generation increases continuously, reaching values of 32% of all food produced worldwide. There are many different options that can be applied to the management and evaluation of waste treatment, and Anaerobic Digestion seems to be one of the most suitable solutions because of its benefits, including renewable energy generation in form of biogas. Moreover, if FW (food waste) is digested in anaerobic digesters from Waste Water Treatment Plants, a common solution is provided for both residues. Furthermore, co-digestion of food waste and sewage sludge provides benefits in terms of anaerobic process stability enhancing the buffer capacity of ammonia (for example) and biogas formation, which can be increased up to 80% when compared with monodigestion. The present paper reviews food waste anaerobic digestion from its generation, characteristics and different options for its management, and it does focus specifically on the anaerobic digestion and co-digestion process, stages, limiting rates and parameters, utilizing numerous experiences, strictly related to food waste. Pre-treatments are also considered as they are important and innovative for enhancing biogas production and its methane yield. The paper shows an extensive collection of pre-treatments, its basics, improving factors, and numerical data of biogas formation improvements that are related both to substrate modification and to the synergistic effect of co-digestion, which could lead to an increase of methane production from 11% to 180%.
Prediction of Damage to the Vehicle Underbody due to Stone Chipping
Authors: Chu Yong-Ju , Eun Hyo-Jun , Lee Seung-Yop
Published: October 2018

In these days, there is a paradigm shift from internal-combustion-engine vehicles to electric vehicles. Most electric vehicles developed include batteries mounted at the bottom, near the rear wheels. Hence, the robust design of underbody parts against the impact of external bodies or random stone chipping needs to be made. In this study, the mathematical modeling and statistical probability analysis of stone chipping and tire slip are performed for identifying and confirming the critical zones of the vehicle underbody that may be damaged by stone chipping. Thereby, stone chipping can be predicted by simulations using the employed mathematical model, before conducting experimental verification using the existing methods. Furthermore, the development cost and time can be reduced because the elements of the designed underbody can be analyzed for robustness, and the safety factor can be established during the design stage.
Removal of Fluoride and Arsenate from Aqueous Solutions by Aluminum-Modified Guava Seeds
Authors: Ramos-Vargas Sarai , Alfaro-Cuevas-Villanueva Ruth , Huirache-Acuña Rafael , Cortés-Martínez Raúl
Published: October 2018

The contamination of groundwater by arsenic and fluoride is a major problem worldwide, causing diseases in the population that uses these waters for their consumption. Therefore, the removal of these types of pollutants from groundwater is a very important issue. In this work, the removal of arsenate and fluoride from aqueous solutions by using aluminum-modified guava seeds (Al-GSs) was evaluated. Batch-type adsorption experiments were carried out with aqueous solutions of As(V) and F− and Al-GSs. The kinetic and equilibrium parameters of adsorption were determined, as well as the effects of adsorbent dose and pH. The adsorbent was characterized by scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy in order to determine its morphology and the functional groups present in the material. The results showed that hydroxyl and carboxyl are the main groups involved in the adsorption of As(V) and F−. The fluoride adsorption kinetics indicate that the equilibrium time was reached at 150 min and it can be described by the Lagergren model, while for As(V) the equilibrium time was lower (120 min) and the kinetic data were fitted well to the pseudo-second-order model. The Langmuir-Freundlich model can describe the adsorption equilibrium data in all cases. The fluoride adsorption capacity by Al-GS was 0.3445 mg/g, and for As(V) it was 4 mg/g. It can be established that the removal of arsenates and fluoride in Al-GSs is due to chemisorption on a heterogeneous surface.
Performance of Concrete with Waste Granite Powder: The Effect of Superplasticizers
Authors: Asadi Shamsabadi Elyas , Ghalehnovi Mansour , De Brito Jorge , Khodabakhshian Ali
Published: October 2018

Granite stone is highly demanded by construction sector. In the processing stage, great amounts of waste powder are produced that can be used as cement replacement in concrete production. Reduced workability is the first problem of this replacement and it can be mitigated by using superplasticizers (SP). This study was carried out to limit the disadvantages related to waste granite powder (WGP) use through the use of SP. For this purpose, 19 concrete mixes containing various types of SP with different contents and WGP as cement replacement were appraised. Fresh concrete density, splitting tensile strength, electrical resistivity, compressive strength and resistance to sulphate attack tests were conducted. The mixes were assessed based on their environmental impact, economic, and mechanical performance. The results have shown that SP can eliminate most disadvantages caused by using stone waste, particularly negative effects on the mechanical properties. They can even improve some properties of concrete, including electrical resistivity by up to around 90%. Furthermore, the concrete mixes PT5, PF5, and PF10, which were made with both SP and stone waste, obtained the best results, with over 30% improvement in the multi-criteria evaluation index values compared to the mix W0 (reference mix). The proper use of WGP as replacement for cement would have environmental benefits and help the economy of the granite stone industry.
A Controlled Study on the Characterisation of Bioaerosols Emissions from Compost
Authors: Nasir Zaheer , Rolph Catherine , Collins Samuel , Stevenson David , Gladding Toni , Hayes Enda , Williams Ben , Khera Shagun , Jackson Simon , Bennett Allan , Parks Simon , Kinnersley Robert , Walsh Kerry , Pollard Simon , Drew Gillian , Alcega Sonia , Coulon Frederic , Tyrrel Sean
Published: October 2018

Bioaerosol emissions arising from biowaste treatment are an issue of public concern. To better characterise the bioaerosols, and to assess a range of measurement methods, we aerosolised green waste compost under controlled conditions. Viable and non-viable Andersen samplers, cyclone samplers and a real time bioaerosol detection system (Spectral Intensity Bioaerosol Sensor (SIBS)) were deployed simultaneously. The number-weighted fraction of fluorescent particles was in the range 22–26% of all particles for low and high emission scenarios. Overall fluorescence spectral profiles seen by the SIBS exhibited several peaks across the 16 wavelength bands from 298 to 735 nm. The size-fractionated endotoxin profile showed most endotoxin resided in the 2.1–9 μm aerodynamic diameter fraction, though up to 27% was found in a finer size fraction. A range of microorganisms were detected through culture, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption and Ionisation Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), including Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1. These findings contribute to our knowledge of the physico-chemical and biological characteristics of bioaerosols from composting sites, as well as informing future monitoring approaches and data interpretation for bioaerosol measurement.
Emission and Cytotoxicity of Surgical Smoke: Cholesta-3,5-Diene Released from Pyrolysis of Prostate Tissue
Authors: Bae Min-Suk , Park Jong Kwan , Kim Ki-Hyun , Cho Seung-Sik , Lee Kwang-Yul , Shon Zang-Ho
Published: October 2018

Respiratory and lung irritants can be a by-product of the surgical pyrolysis of human tissues. Seven prostate tissues were collected during the transurethral resection of a prostate (TURP). Tissue samples, pyrolyzed in a pyrolysis sampling system, were collected and analyzed for the characterization of aerosols in the surgical smoke. In the pyrolyzed particulate matter (PM) from the TURP, Cholestra-3,5-diene was identified as the most dominant component along with 9-methylanthracene, hentriacontane, and dotriacontane based on the mass fragment structure determined using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). As a molecular marker, Cholesta-3,5-diene can be associated with a cytotoxic in primary human oral keratinocytes (HOK). In this research, the presence of Cholestra-3,5-diene is reported for the first time as a by-product of surgical pyrolysis.
Numerical Simulation Study of Winter Pollutant Transport Characteristics over Lanzhou City, Northwest China
Authors: He Jianjun , Lu Shuhua , Yu Ye , Gong Sunling , Zhao Suping , Zhou Chunhong
Published: October 2018

Air pollution levels are severe in Lanzhou due to the valley topography and the semi-arid climate. A comprehensive understanding of pollutant transport characteristics, which are affected by atmospheric circulation, can help explain the reason for the air pollution to some extent. Using the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model coupled with the FLEXible PARTicle (FLEXPART) dispersion model, the authors of this paper simulated the transport pathways of pollutants discharged from local sources and analyzed the diffusion efficiency over Lanzhou during six winters from 2002 to 2007. Flow field analysis showed that a divergence and convergence region formed in the Lanzhou valley during the day and at night, respectively. The Lanzhou valley was dominated by an easterly wind. Based on transport trajectories from FLEXPART, five main transport pathways, namely, the southwest pathway (SW), west pathway (W), south pathway (S), southeast pathway (SE), and northeast pathway (NE), were identified over Lanzhou. Compared with static weather, it was easier for pollutants to cross the south mountain (i.e., along the southeast pathway) during the strong cold air process. The percentage of particles moving out of the urban valley after 12 h of transport and the ratio of particles moving back into the urban valley showed significant diurnal variability. This indicates that the air pollution over Lanzhou may be reduced to some extent by artificially controlling the emission time of pollutants.
Polar Cooling Effect Due to Increase of Phytoplankton and Dimethyl-Sulfide Emission
Authors: Kim Ah-Hyun , Yum Seong Soo , Lee Hannah , Chang Dong Yeong , Shim Sungbo
Published: October 2018

The effects of increased dimethyl-sulfide (DMS) emissions due to increased marine phytoplankton activity are examined using an atmosphere-ocean coupled climate model. As the DMS emission flux from the ocean increases globally, large-scale cooling occurs due to the DMS-cloud condensation nuclei (CCN)-cloud albedo interactions. This cooling increases as DMS emissions are further increased, with the most pronounced effect occurring over the Arctic, which is likely associated with a change in sea-ice fraction as sea ice mediates the air-sea exchange of the radiation, moisture and heat flux. These results differ from recent studies that only considered the bio-physical feedback that led to amplified Arctic warming under greenhouse warming conditions. Therefore, climate negative feedback from DMS-CCN-cloud albedo interactions that involve marine phytoplankton and its impact on polar climate should be properly reflected in future climate models to better estimate climate change, especially over the polar regions.
Climate Change and Water-Related Infectious Diseases
Authors: Nichols Gordon , Lake Iain , Heaviside Clare
Published: October 2018

Background: Water-related, including waterborne, diseases remain important sources of morbidity and mortality worldwide, but particularly in developing countries. The potential for changes in disease associated with predicted anthropogenic climate changes make water-related diseases a target for prevention. Methods: We provide an overview of evidence on potential future changes in water-related disease associated with climate change. Results: A number of pathogens are likely to present risks to public health, including cholera, typhoid, dysentery, leptospirosis, diarrhoeal diseases and harmful algal blooms (HABS). The risks are greatest where the climate effects drive population movements, conflict and disruption, and where drinking water supply infrastructure is poor. The quality of evidence for water-related disease has been documented. Conclusions: We highlight the need to maintain and develop timely surveillance and rapid epidemiological responses to outbreaks and emergence of new waterborne pathogens in all countries. While the main burden of waterborne diseases is in developing countries, there needs to be both technical and financial mechanisms to ensure adequate quantities of good quality water, sewage disposal and hygiene for all. This will be essential in preventing excess morbidity and mortality in areas that will suffer from substantial changes in climate in the future.
A New Efficient Method for the Numerical Solution of Linear Time-Dependent Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Torabi Mina , Hosseini Mohammad-Mehdi
Published: October 2018

This paper presents a new efficient method for the numerical solution of a linear time-dependent partial differential equation. The proposed technique includes the collocation method with Legendre wavelets for spatial discretization and the three-step Taylor method for time discretization. This procedure is third-order accurate in time. A comparative study between the proposed method and the one-step wavelet collocation method is provided. In order to verify the stability of these methods, asymptotic stability analysis is employed. Numerical illustrations are investigated to show the reliability and efficiency of the proposed method. An important property of the presented method is that unlike the one-step wavelet collocation method, it is not necessary to choose a small time step to achieve stability.
The Benefit of Anti-Inflammatory and Renal-Protective Dietary Ingredients on the Biological Processes of Aging in the Kidney
Authors: Panickar Kiran S. , Jewell Dennis E.
Published: October 2018

One of the significant organ systems which decline in aging is the kidney. While the causes of age-associated decline in renal function are likely multifactorial, oxidative stress and inflammation are hypothesized to play important roles in the structural and functional changes of the kidney. During aging there is a general decline in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), a primary measurement used to assess kidney function. Inflammation and oxidative stress have been hypothesized to have a significant detrimental effect on renal function in aging and this may be attenuated by renal protective dietary ingredients. These dietary ingredients may affect renal function directly or through a microbiome-mediated secondary product. Likewise, structural changes including renal tubular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and glomerulosclerosis have all been described in aging. Such detrimental changes may benefit from dietary ingredients that may delay or attenuate the occurrence of such changes. This review will describe the physiology and pathophysiology of aging in renal function with an emphasis on dogs and cats that develop a decline in kidney function naturally. In addition, the varying biomarkers of health and renal dysfunction will be discussed. Finally, we will evaluate the aid in the management of this normal decline through dietary intervention in animal models.
A Rationale for Mesoscopic Domain Formation in Biomembranes
Authors: Destainville Nicolas , Manghi Manoel , Cornet Julie
Published: October 2018

Cell plasma membranes display a dramatically rich structural complexity characterized by functional sub-wavelength domains with specific lipid and protein composition. Under favorable experimental conditions, patterned morphologies can also be observed in vitro on model systems such as supported membranes or lipid vesicles. Lipid mixtures separating in liquid-ordered and liquid-disordered phases below a demixing temperature play a pivotal role in this context. Protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions also contribute to membrane shaping by promoting small domains or clusters. Such phase separations displaying characteristic length-scales falling in-between the nanoscopic, molecular scale on the one hand and the macroscopic scale on the other hand, are named mesophases in soft condensed matter physics. In this review, we propose a classification of the diverse mechanisms leading to mesophase separation in biomembranes. We distinguish between mechanisms relying upon equilibrium thermodynamics and those involving out-of-equilibrium mechanisms, notably active membrane recycling. In equilibrium, we especially focus on the many mechanisms that dwell on an up-down symmetry breaking between the upper and lower bilayer leaflets. Symmetry breaking is an ubiquitous mechanism in condensed matter physics at the heart of several important phenomena. In the present case, it can be either spontaneous (domain buckling) or explicit, i.e., due to an external cause (global or local vesicle bending properties). Whenever possible, theoretical predictions and simulation results are confronted to experiments on model systems or living cells, which enables us to identify the most realistic mechanisms from a biological perspective.
Prevalence and Clinical Significance of Symptoms at Ultra High Risk for Psychosis in Children and Adolescents with Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder: Is There an Association with Global, Role, and Social Functioning?
Authors: Averna Roberto , Pontillo Maria , Demaria Francesco , Armando Marco , Santonastaso Ornella , Pucciarini Maria Laura , Tata Maria Cristina , Mancini Francesco , Vicari Stefano
Published: October 2018

In literature nothing is known about the clinical significance of Ultra High Risk (UHR) symptoms in children and adolescents with diagnosis of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). In this study, we examined the prevalence of UHR symptoms and their relationship with severity of obsessive–compulsive symptomatology, global, social, and role functioning, and level of associated depressive symptoms in a clinical sample (n = 51) of children and adolescents aged between 8 and 17 years with a diagnosis of OCD. The prevalence of UHR symptoms in this sample was 43.1%. We divided the whole sample into two groups: children and adolescents with OCD and UHR symptoms (n = 22) and children and adolescents with OCD without UHR symptoms (n = 29). Our findings suggest that the group with OCD and UHR symptoms shows worse global, social, and role functioning than the group with OCD without UHR symptoms. No differences were found on the severity of obsessive–compulsive symptomatology, the number of psychiatric diagnoses associated, and the level of depressive symptoms. The presence of UHR symptoms in children and adolescents with OCD could cause significant functional impairment and should be considered in order to plan specific and targeted therapeutic interventions.
Teacher Discrimination Reduces School Performance of African American Youth: Role of Gender
Authors: Assari Shervin , Caldwell Cleopatra Howard
Published: October 2018

Background: Gender may alter African Americans’ vulnerability to discrimination. The type of outcomes that follow exposure to discrimination may also be gender-specific. Although teacher discrimination is known to deteriorate school performance, it is yet unknown whether male and female African American youth differ in the effect of teacher discrimination on school performance. Objective: This cross-sectional study explored the moderating role of gender on the effect of teacher discrimination on school performance in a national sample of African American youth. Methods: The National Survey of American Life-Adolescent Supplement (NSAL-A) enrolled a nationally representative sample (n = 810) of 13–17-year-old African American youth. Demographic factors, socioeconomic status, teacher discrimination, and school performance (grade point average, GPA) were measured. Linear multivariable regression models were applied for data analysis. Results: Males and females reported similar levels of perceived teacher discrimination. In the pooled sample, higher teacher discrimination was associated with lower school performance among African American youth (b = −0.35; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −0.49 to −0.22). Gender interacted with perceived teacher discrimination (b = 12; 95% CI = 0.24–2.02), suggesting a significant difference between males and females in the magnitude of the association between perceived teacher discrimination and GPA. In stratified models, perceived teacher discrimination was associated with worse school performance of females (b = −12; 95% CI = −0.03 to −2.78) but not males (b = 0.01; 95% CI = −0.07 to 0.08). Conclusion: In line with previous studies, gender was found to alter the vulnerability of African American youth to perceived discrimination. African American boys and girls may differ in their sensitivity to the effects of teacher discrimination on school performance.
Gender Identity Development among Teenagers Living in the Subarctic Region of Russia
Authors: Flotskaya Natalia , Bulanova Svetlana , Ponomareva Maria , Flotskiy Nikolay , Konopleva Tatiana
Published: October 2018

Gender identity is an important element of an individual’s identity and is one of the regulators of human behavior while acquiring social roles. The aim of this empirical research is to study gender identity development among teenagers living in the subarctic territories of Russia. The results show the correlation between types of gender identity among male and female teenagers, the dynamic in the correlation between gender identity types during adolescence and the characteristics of each type of gender identity in adolescence from the point of view of psychological properties.
Study on the Leaves Densities as Parameter for Effectiveness of Energy Transfer on the Green Facade
Authors: Widiastuti Ratih , Caesarendra Wahyu , Prianto Eddy , Budi Wahyu Setia
Published: October 2018

This research involves the study of two models of green facades and a model of bare wall. A house miniature was used as thermal lab. The aim of the project is evaluating the performance of energy transfer based on the various leaves densities on the green facade. Heat calculation was used to calculate heat transfer on the wall surface. There are two kinds of leaves densities, 50% and 90%. The data measurement show that the green facade has a significant cooling effect and more visible for the facade with higher leaves densities. Respectively, from experiment I to experiment III, the average of heat fluxes are 22.35 W/m2, 8.76 W/m2, and 0.60 W/m2 where in experiment III, the negative heat flux occurred during day time due to interior surface temperature is higher than exterior surface temperature. Lastly, higher leaves densities possibility can create a better cooling effect but also has the risk of creating higher relative humidity, especially for the interior air layer.
Oncobox Bioinformatical Platform for Selecting Potentially Effective Combinations of Target Cancer Drugs Using High-Throughput Gene Expression Data
Authors: Sorokin Maxim , Kholodenko Roman , Suntsova Maria , Malakhova Galina , Garazha Andrew , Kholodenko Irina , Poddubskaya Elena , Lantsov Dmitriy , Stilidi Ivan , Arhiri Petr , Osipov Andreyan , Buzdin Anton
Published: October 2018

Sequential courses of anticancer target therapy lead to selection of drug-resistant cells, which results in continuous decrease of clinical response. Here we present a new approach for predicting effective combinations of target drugs, which act in a synergistic manner. Synergistic combinations of drugs may prevent or postpone acquired resistance, thus increasing treatment efficiency. We cultured human ovarian carcinoma SKOV-3 and neuroblastoma NGP-127 cancer cell lines in the presence of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (Pazopanib, Sorafenib, and Sunitinib) and Rapalogues (Temsirolimus and Everolimus) for four months and obtained cell lines demonstrating increased drug resistance. We investigated gene expression profiles of intact and resistant cells by microarrays and analyzed alterations in 378 cancer-related signaling pathways using the bioinformatical platform Oncobox. This revealed numerous pathways linked with development of drug resistant phenotypes. Our approach is based on targeting proteins involved in as many as possible signaling pathways upregulated in resistant cells. We tested 13 combinations of drugs and/or selective inhibitors predicted by Oncobox and 10 random combinations. Synergy scores for Oncobox predictions were significantly higher than for randomly selected drug combinations. Thus, the proposed approach significantly outperforms random selection of drugs and can be adopted to enhance discovery of new synergistic combinations of anticancer target drugs.
Bipolar Tumor-Associated Macrophages in Ovarian Cancer as Targets for Therapy
Authors: Gupta Vijayalaxmi , Yull Fiona , Khabele Dineo
Published: October 2018

Ovarian cancer, a rare but fatal disease, has been a challenging area in the field of gynecological cancer. Ovarian cancer is characterized by peritoneal metastasis, which is facilitated by a cross-talk between tumor cells and other cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In epithelial ovarian cancer, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) constitute over 50% of cells in the peritoneal TME and malignant ascites, and are potential targets for therapy. Here, we review the bipolar nature of TAMs and the evolving strategies to target TAMs in ovarian cancer.
Physical Activity and Gastric Cancer Risk in Patients with and without Helicobacter pylori Infection in A Korean Population: A Hospital-Based Case-Control Study
Authors: Gunathilake Madhawa Neranjan , Lee Jeonghee , Jang Aelee , Choi Il Ju , Kim Young-Il , Kim Jeongseon
Published: October 2018

Although physical activity (PA) is beneficial for prolonging lifespan, evidence for the protective role of PA against the development of gastric cancer (GC) is not yet well established. This study assessed the association between PA and GC risk in patients with and without Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in a Korean population. In total, 415 GC patients and 830 controls were enrolled at the National Cancer Center, Korea. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form was used to collect PA data. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using unconditional logistic regression models. In the H. pylori-positive group, subjects who engaged in regular exercise showed a significantly reduced risk of GC in the entire population (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.38–0.70) and in females (OR = 0.60, 95% CI = 0.21–0.64). Subjects who engaged in a high level of total PA showed a significantly reduced risk of GC relative to subjects in the lowest tertile in the fully adjusted model (OR = 0.46, 95% CI = 0.32–0.65, p-trend < 0.001). There was an inverse association between PA and GC risk in the entire population, and in the H. pylori-positive subgroup. Our data indicate the need for the promotion of all domains of PA, especially for Korean populations.
Significantly Enhanced Aqueous Cr(VI) Removal Performance of Bi/ZnO Nanocomposites via Synergistic Effect of Adsorption and SPR-Promoted Visible Light Photoreduction
Authors: Yuan Xiaoya , Feng Zijuan , Zhao Jianjun , Niu Jiawei , Liu Jiasen , Peng Dong , Cheng Xin
Published: October 2018

Bismuth nanoparticles (BiNPs) and Zinc Oxide photocatalysts (BiNPs/ZnO) with different Bi loadings were successfully prepared via a facile chemical method. Their morphology and structure were thoroughly characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible) diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), photoluminescence spectra (PL), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The results showed that a modification of hexagonal wurtzite-phase ZnO nanoparticles with Bi is achievable with an intimate interfacial interaction within its composites. The performance of the photocatalytic Cr(VI) removal under visible light irradiation indicated that BiNPs/ZnO exhibited a superior removal performance to bare ZnO, Bi, and the counterpart sample prepared using a physical mixing method. The excellent performance of the BiNPs/ZnO photocatalysts could be ascribed to the synergistic effect between the considerable physical Cr (VI) adsorption and enhanced absorption intensity in the visible light region, due to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) as well as the effective transfer and separation of the photogenerated charge carriers at the interface.
Alkanethiolate-Capped Palladium Nanoparticles for Regio- and Stereoselective Hydrogenation of Allenes
Authors: Chen Ting-An , Shon Young-Seok
Published: October 2018

Colloidal Pd nanoparticles capped with octanethiolate ligands have previously shown an excellent selectivity toward the mono-hydrogenation of both isolated and conjugated dienes to internal alkenes. This paper reports an efficient stereoselective mono-hydrogenation of cumulated dienes (allenes) to either Z or E olefinic isomers, depending on the substitution pattern around C=C bonds. Kinetic studies indicate that the reaction progresses through the hydrogenation of less hindered C=C bonds to produce internal Z olefinic isomers. In the cases of di-substitued olefinic products, this initial hydrogenation step is followed by the subsequent isomerization of Z to E isomers. In contrast, the slow isomerization of Z to E isomers for tri-substituted olefinic products results in the preservation of Z stereochemistry. The high selectivity of Pd nanoparticles averting an additional hydrogenation is steered from the controlled electronic and geometric properties of the Pd surface, which are the result of thiolate-induced partial poisoning and surface crowding, respectively. The high activity of colloidal Pd nanoparticle catalysts allows the reactions to be completed at room temperature and atmospheric pressure.
High Pressure Photoreduction of CO2: Effect of Catalyst Formulation, Hole Scavenger Addition and Operating Conditions
Authors: Bahadori Elnaz , Tripodi Antonio , Villa Alberto , Pirola Carlo , Prati Laura , Ramis Gianguido , Rossetti Ilenia
Published: October 2018

The photoreduction of CO2 is an intriguing process which allows the synthesis of fuels and chemicals. One of the limitations for CO2 photoreduction in the liquid phase is its low solubility in water. This point has been here addressed by designing a fully innovative pressurized photoreactor, allowing operation up to 20 bar and applied to improve the productivity of this very challenging process. The photoreduction of CO2 in the liquid phase was performed using commercial TiO2 (Evonink P25), TiO2 obtained by flame spray pyrolysis (FSP) and gold doped P25 (0.2 wt% Au-P25) in the presence of Na2SO3 as hole scavenger (HS). The different reaction parameters (catalyst concentration, pH and amount of HS) have been addressed. The products in liquid phase were mainly formic acid and formaldehyde. Moreover, for longer reaction time and with total consumption of HS, gas phase products formed (H2 and CO) after accumulation of significant number of organic compounds in the liquid phase, due to their consecutive photoreforming. Enhanced CO2 solubility in water was achieved by adding a base (pH = 12–14). In basic environment, CO2 formed carbonates which further reduced to formaldehyde and formic acid and consequently formed CO/CO2 + H2 in the gas phase through photoreforming. The deposition of small Au nanoparticles (3–5 nm) (NPs) onto TiO2 was found to quantitatively influence the products distribution and increase the selectivity towards gas phase products. Significant energy storage in form of different products has been achieved with respect to literature results.
Allogeneic CAR-T Cells: More than Ease of Access?
Authors: Graham Charlotte , Jozwik Agnieszka , Pepper Andrea , Benjamin Reuben
Published: October 2018

Patient derived anti-CD19 chimeric antigen receptor-T (CAR-T) cells are a powerful tool in achieving a complete remission in a range of B-cell malignancies, most notably B-acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (B-ALL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, there are limitations, including inability to manufacture CAR-T cells from the patient’s own T cells, disease progression and death prior to return of engineered cells. T cell dysfunction is known to occur in cancer patients, and several groups have recently described differences in CAR-T cells generated from chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) patients compared with those from a healthy donor. This is thought to contribute to the low response rate in this disease group. Healthy donor, gene-edited CAR-T cells which do not require human leucocyte antigen (HLA) matching have the potential to provide an ‘off the shelf’ product, overcoming the manufacturing difficulties of producing CAR-T cells for each individual patient. They may also provide a more functional, potent product for malignancies such as CLL, where T cell dysfunction is common and frequently cannot be fully reversed during the manufacturing process. Here we review the potential benefits and obstacles for healthy donor, allogeneic CAR-T cells.
Hydrothermal Synthesis, Characterization, and Sintering Behavior of Core-Shell Particles: A Principle Study on Lanthanum Strontium Cobaltite Coated with Nanosized Gadolinium Doped Ceria
Authors: Xu Yu , Zielke Philipp , Van Nong Ngo , Pirou Stéven , Reolon Raquel , Si Xiaoqing , Simonsen Søren Bredmose , Norby Poul , Lühmann Henning , Bensch Wolfgang , Kiebach Ragnar
Published: October 2018

In this work, nanostructured (La0.6Sr0.4)0.99CoO3 (LSC)-Ce0.8Gd0.2O1.9 (CGO) core-shell particles were prepared by precipitating CGO nanoparticles on the surface of LSC particles under hydrothermal conditions. The as-prepared core-shell particles were sintered by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and conventional sintering, and the microstructure evolution and densification behavior were studied. Dense microstructures were reached using both sintering methods at relatively low temperatures. In the case of SPS, the core-shell architecture was partially maintained and nano-structured CGO grains were formed, while conventional sintering led to the formation of larger CGO grains. This work covers a detailed characterization of (a) the individual LSC-CGO core-shell particles and (b) the composites after densification.
Evolution of Copper Electrodes Fabricated by Electroless Plating on BaZr0.7Ce0.2Y0.1O3-δ Proton-Conducting Ceramic Membrane: From Deposition to Testing in Methane
Authors: Harvey Steven P. , Ricote Sandrine , Diercks David R. , Jiang Chun-Sheng , Patki Neil S. , Manerbino Anthony , Gorman Brian , Al-Jassim Mowafak
Published: October 2018

We investigated copper electrodes deposited onto a BaZr0.7Ce0.2Y0.1O3-δ (BZCY72) proton-conducting membrane via a novel electroless plating method, which resulted in significantly improved performance when compared to a traditional painted copper electrode. The increased performance was examined with a multiscale multitechnique characterization method including time-of-flight secondary-ion mass spectroscopy (TOF-SIMS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning spreading-resistance microscopy (SSRM), and atom-probe tomography (APT). Through this method, we observed that a palladium catalyst layer alloys with the copper electrode. We also explored the nature of a non-coking-induced carbon-rich phase that may be involved with the improved performance of the electrode.
Hardening of HVOF-Sprayed Austenitic Stainless-Steel Coatings by Gas Nitriding
Authors: Lindner Thomas , Kutschmann Pia , Löbel Martin , Lampke Thomas
Published: October 2018

Austenitic stainless steel exhibits an excellent corrosion behavior. The relatively poor wear resistance can be improved by surface hardening, whereby thermochemical processes offer an economic option. The successful diffusion enrichment of bulk material requires a decomposition of the passive layer. A gas nitriding of high velocity oxygen fuel spraying (HVOF)-sprayed AISI 316L coatings without an additional activation step was studied with a variation of the process temperature depending on the heat-treatment state of the coating. A successful nitrogen enrichment was found in as-sprayed condition, whereas passivation prevents diffusion after solution heat treatment. The phase composition and microstructure formation were examined. The crystal structure and lattice parameters were determined using X-ray diffraction analysis. The identified phases were assigned to the different microstructural elements using the color etchant Beraha II. In as-sprayed condition, the phase formation in the coating is related to the process temperature. The formation of the S-phase with interstitial solvation of nitrogen is achieved by a process temperature of 420 °C. Precipitation occurs during the heat treatment at 520 °C. In both cases, a significant increase in wear resistance was found. The correlation of the thermochemical process parameters and the microstructural properties contributes to a better understanding of the requirements for the process combination of thermal spraying and diffusion.
Adhesion of Soft Materials to Rough Surfaces: Experimental Studies, Statistical Analysis and Modelling
Authors: Pepelyshev Andrey , Borodich Feodor M. , Galanov Boris A. , Gorb Elena V. , Gorb Stanislav N.
Published: October 2018

Adhesion between rough surfaces is an active field of research where both experimental studies and theoretical modelling are used. However, it is rather difficult to conduct precise experimental evaluations of adhesive properties of the so-called anti-adhesive materials. Hence, it was suggested earlier by Purtov et al. (2013) to prepare epoxy resin replicas of surfaces having different topography and conduct depth-sensing indentation of the samples using a micro-force tester with a spherical smooth probe made of the compliant polydimethylsiloxane polymer in order to compare values of the force of adhesion to the surfaces. Surprising experimental observations were obtained in which a surface having very small roughness showed the greater value of the force of adhesion than the value for a replica of smooth surface. A plausible explanation of the data was given suggesting that these rough surfaces had full adhesive contact and their true contact area is greater than the area for a smooth surface, while the surfaces with higher values of roughness do not have full contact. Here, the experimental results of surface topography measurements and the statistical analysis of the data are presented. Several modern tests of normality used showed that the height distribution of the surfaces under investigation is normal (Gaussian) and hence the classic statistical models of adhesive contact between rough surfaces may formally be used. Employing one of the Galanov (2011) models of adhesive contact between rough surfaces, the plausible explanation of the experimental observations has been confirmed and theoretically justified.
Highly-Conductive and Well-Adhered Cu Thin Film Fabricated on Quartz Glass by Heat Treatment of a Precursor Film Obtained Via Spray-Coating of an Aqueous Solution Involving Cu(II) Complexes
Authors: Hishimone Philipus N. , Nagai Hiroki , Morita Masato , Sakamoto Tetsuo , Sato Mitsunobu
Published: October 2018

A Cu thin film on a quartz glass substrate was fabricated by a wet process involving heat-treatment of a precursor film spray-coated with an aqueous ammonia solution containing Cu(HCOO)2∙4H2O and Cu(II) complex of ethylenediamine-N,N,N′N′-tetraacetic acid. The precursor film that formed on the substrate at 180 °C in air was heat-treated at 350 °C and post annealed at 400 °C by placing an identical-sized glass on top, under Ar gas flow in a tubular furnace. X-ray diffraction pattern of the resultant film showed only peaks of Cu. The resultant film of 100 nm thickness has an adhesion strength and electrical resistivity of 37(7) MPa and 3.8(6) × 10−5 Ω cm, respectively. The images of atomic force and field-emission scanning-electron microscopies revealed a film of well-connected Cu grains with an average surface roughness of 11 nm. The reflectance of the thin film is more than 90% in the far-infrared region. The film’s chemical composition was also examined by using Auger electron spectroscopy.
Anti-Fouling Ceramic Coating for Improving the Energy Efficiency of Steel Boiler Systems
Authors: Nguyen Minh , Bang Jung , Kim Young , Bin An , Hwang Kyu , Pham Vuong-Hung , Kwon Woo-Teck
Published: October 2018

Boilers are systems used mainly to generate steam in industries and waste-to-energy facilities. During operation, heat transfer loss occurs because a fouling layer with low thermal conductivity is deposited on the external surfaces of the boiler tube system, which contributes to the overall poor energy efficiency of waste-to-energy power plants. To overcome the fouling problem, a ceramic coating was developed and applied to carbon steel with a simple and inexpensive coating method. Anti-fouling testing, thermal conductivity measurement, and microstructure observation were performed to evaluate the performance of the coating. All evaluated properties of the coating were found to be excellent. The developed ceramic coating can be applied to boiler tubes in a real facility to protect them from the fouling problem and improve their energy efficiency.
Na4Yb(CO3)3F: A New UV Nonlinear Optical Material with a Large Second Harmonic Generation Response
Authors: Chen Qiaoling , Luo Min , Lin Chensheng
Published: October 2018

A new nonlinear optical crystals fluoride carbonate, Na4Yb(CO3)3F, has been synthesized by mild hydrothermal method. The Na4Yb(CO3)3F crystallizes in the noncentrosymmetric space group Cc (no. 9) with the lattice parameters a = 8.018(3), b = 15.929(5), c = 13.950(5) Å and β = 101.425(6)°. The compound Na4Yb(CO3)3F has a high density of [CO3] groups. The structure can be described as one-dimensional [Na5Yb(CO3)2F2] chains connected by [CO3] groups, forming an intricate three-dimensional (3D) framework. Other Na+ and Yb3+ cations are located in the cavities of 3D network. The powder second harmonic generation (SHG) measurement shows that Na4Yb(CO3)3F features a large SHG response, about 4.3 times that of KH2PO4 (KDP), and is a phase-matchable material. In addition, its UV-Vis-NIR diffuse reflectance spectral data indicate that Na4Yb(CO3)3F has a large optical gap about 4.72 eV, which corresponds to the UV cut-off edge of 263 nm.
Reconnecting Amphibian Habitat through Small Pond Construction and Enhancement, South Okanagan River Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Ashpole Sara L. , Bishop Christine A. , Murphy Stephen D.
Published: October 2018

The arid south Okanagan River Valley, British Columbia is a highly-modified landscape; where wetland and riparian habitat loss exceeds 85%, and 88% of remaining wetlands experience at least one harmful anthropogenic stressor. This multi-stressor landscape for amphibian species at risk led to a collaborative stakeholder approach for habitat restoration and species recovery. The main project goal was to increase the quantity and quality of lowland wetland habitat by reconnecting known amphibian-breeding sites with constructed and/or enhanced small ponds. Long-term amphibian monitoring data were used to determine strategic locations for wetland construction and/or enhancement. Habitat enhancement outcomes (Ntotal = 21 sites) since 2006 include 10 newly constructed ponds, enhancement of eight re-contoured ponds after historic infilling, and invasive predatory species removal at three sites. Project ponds were monitored annually (2007 to 2014) for calling frogs, the presence of eggs, and metamorphic emergence. Early signs of colonization and metamorphic success for Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana) (N = 13 sites) and Pacific treefrog (Pseudacris regilla) (N = 7 sites) populations have been observed, however no records of Blotched tiger salamanders (Ambystoma mavortium) colonization has been detected. Wetland habitat construction and enhancement have doubled the number of available fishless ponds to support breeding within the study area and engaged landowners through voluntary stewardship. Whether constructed or enhanced ponds have aided species recovery is unclear, though the colonization and successful metamorphosis of some species provides early supporting evidence that it will.
Association between eNOS Gene Polymorphism (T786C and VNTR) and Sickle Cell Disease Patients in Ghana
Authors: Antwi-Boasiako Charles , Dzudzor Bartholomew , Kudzi William , Doku Alfred , Dale Campbell Andrew , Sey Fredericka , Otu Kate Hgar , Boatemaa Gifty Dankwah , Ekem Ivy , Ahenkorah John , Achel Daniel Gyingiri , Aboagye Elvis Twumasi , Donkor Eric S.
Published: October 2018

Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) variants have been found to be associated with several vascular disorders as well as the pathogenesis of sickle cell disease (SCD) complications such as vaso-occlusive crises (VOC). Studies on eNOS gene variants among SCD patients are rare in Ghana and several other African countries. The current study aimed to determine a possible association between variants of the eNOS gene (variable number of tandem repeats in intron 4 and T786C) in SCD complications among Ghanaian patients. This was a cross-sectional study involving 89 HbSS patients with complications and 46 HbSS patients without complications. Genomic DNA was extracted from leukocytes in the buffy coat and separated from collected whole blood samples of the study participants. PCR amplification, followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was used to genotype T786C (rs2070744) variants. Variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) in intron 4 was genotyped by PCR and direct electrophoresis. There was a significant difference in the genotype frequency of the T786C variant between HbSS patients with complications and those without complications (p = 0.0165). However, there was no significant difference in the VNTR intron 4 variant of the eNOS gene between patients with complications and those without complications (p > 0.05). The study shows an association between the eNOS gene variant (T786C) and complications in SCD.