bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MHD Mixed Convection in a Lid-Driven Cavity with a Bottom Trapezoidal Body: Two-Phase Nanofluid Model
Authors: Sadiq Muhammad Adil , Alsabery Ammar I. , Hashim Ishak
Published: October 2018

The current work examines the effects of a bottom trapezoidal solid body and a magnetic field on mixed convection in a lid-driven square cavity. The Al 2 O 3 -water nanofluid used is assumed to obey Buongiorno’s two-phase model. An isothermal heater is placed on the bottom base of the trapezoid solid body, while the cavity’s vertical walls are kept cold at temperature T c . The top moving wall and the remaining portions of the cavity’s bottom wall are thermally insulated. The Galerkin weighted residual finite element method is employed to solve the dimensionless governing equations. The parameters of interest are the Richardson number ( 0.01 ≤ R i ≤ 100 ), Hartmann number ( 0 ≤ H a ≤ 50 ) , nanoparticle volume fraction ( 0 ≤ ϕ ≤ 0.04 ), and the length of the bottom base of the trapezoidal solid body. The obtained results show that increasing the Richardson number or decreasing the Hartmann number tends to increase the heat transfer rate. In addition, both the thermophoresis and Brownian motion greatly improve the convection heat transfer. It is believed that the current work is a good contribution to many engineering applications such as building design, thermal management of solar energy systems, electronics and heat exchange.
Comprehensive Aging Analysis of Volumetric Constrained Lithium-Ion Pouch Cells with High Concentration Silicon-Alloy Anodes
Authors: De Sutter Lysander , Berckmans Gert , Marinaro Mario , Smekens Jelle , Firouz Yousef , Wohlfahrt-Mehrens Margret , Van Mierlo Joeri , Omar Noshin
Published: October 2018

In this research, twenty-four high capacity (1360 mAh) NMC622/Si-alloy Li-ion full pouch cells with high silicon-alloy content (55%) are cycle aged under seven different cycling conditions to study the effect of different stressors on the cycle life of Si-anode full cells, among which are the effect of ambient temperature, Depth of Discharge (DoD) and the discharge current. The cells are volumetrically constrained at an optimal initial pressure to improve their cycle life, energy and power capabilities. Furthermore, the innovative test setup allows measuring the developed pressure as a result of repeated (de-)lithiation during battery cycling. This uniquely vast testing campaign on Si-anode full cells allows us to study and quantify independently the influence of different stress factors on their cycle life for the first time, as well as to develop a new capacity fade model based on an observed linear relationship between capacity retention and total discharge capacity throughput.
Applications of Emerging Bioelectrochemical Technologies in Agricultural Systems: A Current Review
Authors: Li Simeng , Chen Gang , Anandhi Aavudai
Published: October 2018

Background: Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are emerging energy-effective and environment-friendly technologies. Different applications of BESs are able to effectively minimize wastes and treat wastewater while simultaneously recovering electricity, biohydrogen and other value-added chemicals via specific redox reactions. Although there are many studies that have greatly advanced the performance of BESs over the last decade, research and reviews on agriculture-relevant applications of BESs are very limited. Considering the increasing demand for food, energy and water due to human population expansion, novel technologies are urgently needed to promote productivity and sustainability in agriculture. Methodology: This review study is based on an extensive literature search regarding agriculture-related BES studies mainly in the last decades (i.e., 2009–2018). The databases used in this review study include Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science. The current and future applications of bioelectrochemical technologies in agriculture have been discussed. Findings/Conclusions: BESs have the potential to recover considerable amounts of electric power and energy chemicals from agricultural wastes and wastewater. The recovered energy can be used to reduce the energy input into agricultural systems. Other resources and value-added chemicals such as biofuels, plant nutrients and irrigation water can also be produced in BESs. In addition, BESs may replace unsustainable batteries to power remote sensors or be designed as biosensors for agricultural monitoring. The possible applications to produce food without sunlight and remediate contaminated soils using BESs have also been discussed. At the same time, agricultural wastes can also be processed into construction materials or biochar electrodes/electrocatalysts for reducing the high costs of current BESs. Future studies should evaluate the long-term performance and stability of on-farm BES applications.
Evaluation of Wind Resources and the Effect of Market Price Components on Wind-Farm Income: A Case Study of Ørland in Norway
Authors: Marjan Ali , Shafiee Mahmood
Published: October 2018

This paper aims to present a detailed analysis of the performance of a wind-farm using the wind turbine power measurement standard IEC61400-12-1 (2017). Ten minutes averaged wind data are obtained from LIDAR over the period of twelve months and it is compared with the 38 years’ data from weather station with the objective of determining the wind resources at the wind-farm. The performance of one of the wind turbines located in the wind-farm is assessed by comparing the wind power potential of the wind turbine with its actual power production. Our analysis shows that the wind farm under study is rated as ‘good’ in terms of wind power production and has wind power density of 479 W/m2. The annual wind-farm’s income is estimated based on the real-data collected from the wind turbines. The effect of price of electricity and the spot prices of Norwegian-Swedish green certificate on the income will be illustrated by means of a Monte-Carlo Simulation (MCS) approach. Our study provides a different perspective of wind resource evaluation by analyzing LIDAR measurements using Windographer and combines it with the lesser explored effects of price components on the income using statistical tools.
Gender Differences in Yielding to Social Influence: An Impunity Experiment
Authors: Di Cagno Daniela , Galliera Arianna , Güth Werner , Panaccione Luca
Published: October 2018

In impunity games proposers, like allocators in dictator games, can take what they want; however, responders can refuse offers deemed unsatisfactory at own cost. We modify the impunity game via allowing offers to condition of another participant’s counterfactual generosity intention. For a given pair of proposer candidates each states, via the strategy vector method, an intended and two adjusted offers: one (possibly) upward adjusted in case the intended offer of the other candidate is higher and one (possibly) downward adjusted in case it is lower. Additionally, each candidate determines an acceptance threshold for the responder role. Only one candidate in each pair is randomly selected and endowed as the actual proposer whose offer is either possibly upward or downward adjusted depending on the counterfactual offer of the other proposer candidate. The endowed proposer of one pair is matched with the non-endowed candidate of another pair in the responder role. The data confirm that counterfactual intentions of others often affect own generosity via substantial and significant average adjustments to the weakest social influence. Overall, offers seem correlated with acceptance thresholds. Furthermore, we find significant gender differences: female participants state lower intended and adjusted offers as well as acceptance thresholds and therefore appear to be less sensitive to social influence.
Molecular Effects of Inorganic and Methyl Mercury in Aquatic Primary Producers: Comparing Impact to A Macrophyte and A Green Microalga in Controlled Conditions
Authors: Beauvais-Flück Rebecca , Slaveykova Vera I. , Cosio Claudia
Published: October 2018

Mercury (Hg) remains hazardous in aquatic environments, because of its toxicity and high biomagnification in food webs. In phytoplankton and macrophytes, Hg compounds at high concentration have been reported to affect the growth, photosynthesis, and nutrient metabolism, as well as to induce oxidative stress and damage. Here, we reviewed the recent knowledge gained on cellular toxicity of inorganic and methyl Hg (IHg; MeHg) in aquatic primary producers at more relevant environmental concentrations, with a particular focus on omics data. In addition, we compared a case study conducted with transcriptomic on the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and the macrophyte Elodea nuttallii. At lower concentrations, IHg and MeHg influenced similar gene categories, including energy metabolism, cell structure, and nutrition. In addition, genes involved in the cell motility in the microalgae, and in hormone metabolism in the macrophyte were regulated. At equivalent intracellular concentration, MeHg regulated more genes than IHg supporting a higher molecular impact of the former. At the organism level in C. reinhardtii, MeHg increased reactive oxygen species, while both IHg and MeHg increased photosynthesis efficiency, whereas in E. nuttallii MeHg induced anti-oxidant responses and IHg reduced chlorophyll content. Data showed differences, according to species and characteristics of life cycle, in responses at the gene and cellular levels, but evidenced a higher molecular impact of MeHg than IHg and different cellular toxicity pathways in aquatic primary producers.
Phenanthrene Mitigates Cadmium Toxicity in Earthworms Eisenia fetida (Epigeic Specie) and Aporrectodea caliginosa (Endogeic Specie) in Soil
Authors: Elyamine Ali Mohamed , Afzal Javaria , Rana Muhammad Shoaib , Imran Muhammad , Cai Miaomiao , Hu Chengxiao
Published: October 2018

In classical toxicology studies, the interaction of combined doses of chemicals with dissimilar modes of toxic action in soil is complex and depending on the end point investigated and the experimental protocol employed. This study was used to examine the interactive effect of phenanthrene and Cadmium on two ecologically different species of earthworms; Eisenia. fetida and Aporrectodea. caliginosa. This interactive effect was scrutinized by using the acute toxicity test with the concentrations of 2.51 mg kg−1 and 3.74 mg kg−1, respectively, being lethal for 50% of E. fetida and A. caliginosa. The results showed that in the mixture treatment, phenanthrene at 5, 10, 15 and 20 mg kg−1 significantly mitigated both earthworms species mortality and body-mass loss. Moreover, the factor of Cd accumulated in E. fetida and A. caliginosa tissues was significantly decreased by about 12% and 16%, respectively. Linear regression correlation coefficient revealed that the reduction of both earthworm species mortality was negatively and significantly correlated (r2 = 0.98 ± 0.40 and 1 ± 3.9 p < 0.001) with phenanthrene concentration in soil. However, over 20 mg kg−1 of phenanthrene, both organisms mortality rate increased again, as was the Bioaccumulation factor of phenanthrene. Thus, this study proposes that the antagonistical effect of phenanthrene on Cd at a degree of concentration can be used to mitigate Cd effect on soil living organisms. However, as an implication of these results, the interpretation of standardized toxicity bioassays, including whole effluent toxicity tests and single-compound toxicity tests, should be performed with caution. In addition, risk assessment protocols for environment pollution by a mixture of metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons should include robust methods that can detect possible interactive effects between contaminants to optimize environmental protection.
Gene Expression Response in Peripheral Blood Cells of Petroleum Workers Exposed to Sub-Ppm Benzene Levels
Authors: Jørgensen Katarina M. , Færgestad Mosleth Ellen , Hovde Liland Kristian , Hopf Nancy B. , Holdhus Rita , Stavrum Anne-Kristin , Gjertsen Bjørn Tore , Kirkeleit Jorunn
Published: October 2018

Altered gene expression in pathways relevant to leukaemogenesis, as well as reduced levels of circulating lymphocytes, have been reported in workers that were exposed to benzene concentrations below 1 ppm. In this study, we analysed whole blood global gene expression patterns in a worker cohort with altered levels of T cells and immunoglobulins IgM and IgA at three time points; pre-shift, post-shift (after three days), and post-recovery (12 hours later). Eight benzene exposed tank workers performing maintenance work in crude oil cargo tanks with a mean benzene exposure of 0.3 ppm (range 0.1–0.5 ppm) and five referents considered to be unexposed were examined by gene expression arrays. By using our data as independent validation, we reanalysed selected genes that were reported to be altered from previous studies of workers being exposed to sub-ppm benzene levels Four out of six genes previously proposed as marker genes in chronically exposed workers separated benzene exposed workers from unexposed referents (CLEC5, ACSL1, PRG2, IFNB1). Even better separation of benzene exposed workers and referents was observed for short-term exposure for genes in the Jak-STAT pathway, particularly elevated expression of IL6 and reduced expression of IL19.
The Relationship between Technology Life Cycle and Korean Stock Market Performance
Authors: Lee BokHyun
Published: October 2018

Through the three industrial revolutions, technology has enabled rapid changes in society. In a capitalist society, capital is invested where there is utility, for example, economic benefit. We intend to determine that the stock price of a company that uses a particular technology will change with the life cycle of the technology in question. Specifically, we filtered companies that mainly deal with augmented reality and are listed in Korea’s KOSDAQ market. We grouped these companies based on detailed technologies that constitute augmented reality. We used the event study method to calculate the stock returns against a benchmark. As a result, in the “Peak of Inflated Expectations” stage, the portfolios of all companies using augmented reality generally show higher returns than the benchmark. However, it is difficult to ascertain whether a return generated based on one of the detailed technologies that make up augmented reality is higher or lower than that of the benchmark. During the “Trough of Disillusionment” phase, there was neither a consistent trend of cumulative abnormal returns (CAR) nor buy-and-hold abnormal returns (BHAR). However, during this stage, there was a positive correlation of average BHAR and average abnormal returns between the entire sample’s portfolio and each detailed technology firm’s portfolio.
T-2 Toxin Exposure Induces Apoptosis in TM3 Cells by Inhibiting Mammalian Target of Rapamycin/Serine/Threonine Protein Kinase(mTORC2/AKT) to Promote Ca2+Production
Authors: Wang Ji , Yang Chenglin , Yuan Zhihang , Yi Jine , Wu Jing
Published: October 2018

Although mTOR (the mammalian target of rapamycin) can regulate intracellular free Ca2+concentration in normal cultured podocytes, it remains elusive as to how mTORC2/AKT-mediated Ca2+participates in the process of T-2 toxin-induced apoptosis. The potential signaling responsible for intracellular Ca2+ concentration changes was investigated using immunoblot assays in an in vitro model of TM3 cell injury induced by T-2 toxin. Changes in Ca2+ were assessed using the Ca2+-sensitive fluorescent indictor dye Fura 2-AM. The cytotoxicity of TM3 cells was assessed with an MTT bioassay, and apoptosis was measured using Annexin V-FITC staining. Following T-2 toxin treatment, the growth of cells, phospho-mTORSer2481, phospho-mTORSer2448, and phospho-AktSer473 were significantly decreased in a time-dependent manner, whereas Ca2+ and apoptosis were increased. T-2 toxin-induced apoptosis was prevented by BAPTA-AM (a Ca2+chelator) and MHY1485 (an mTOR activator), and the application of mTOR activator MHY1485 also prevented the increase of intracellular free Ca2+concentration in TM3 cells. Our results strongly suggest that T-2 toxin exposure induces apoptosis in TM3 cells by inhibiting mTORC2/AKT to promote Ca2+ production.
Linking Enzymatic Oxidative Degradation of Lignin to Organics Detoxification
Authors: Wang Xiaolu , Yao Bin , Su Xiaoyun
Published: October 2018

The major enzymes involved in lignin degradation are laccase, class II peroxidases (lignin peroxidase, manganese peroxidase, and versatile peroxidase) and dye peroxidase, which use an oxidative or peroxidative mechanism to deconstruct the complex and recalcitrant lignin. Laccase and manganese peroxidase directly oxidize phenolic lignin components, while lignin peroxidase and versatile peroxidase can act on the more recalcitrant non-phenolic lignin compounds. Mediators or co-oxidants not only increase the catalytic ability of these enzymes, but also largely expand their substrate scope to those with higher redox potential or more complicated structures. Neither laccase nor the peroxidases are stringently selective of substrates. The promiscuous nature in substrate preference can be employed in detoxification of a range of organics.
Optimized Clump Culture Methods for Adult Human Multipotent Neural Cells
Authors: Yeon Je Young , Hwang Ji-Yoon , Lee Hye Won , Pyeon Hee-Jang , Won Jeong-Seob , Noh Yoo-Jung , Nam Hyun , Joo Kyeung Min
Published: October 2018

Adult human multipotent neural cell (ahMNC) is a candidate for regeneration therapy for neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we developed a primary clump culture method for ahMNCs to increase the efficiency of isolation and in vitro expansion. The same amount of human temporal lobe (1 g) was partially digested and then filtered through strainers with various pore sizes, resulting in four types of clumps: Clump I > 100 µm, 70 µm < Clump II < 100 µm, 40 µm < Clump III < 70 µm, and Clump IV < 40 µm. At 3 and 6 days after culture, Clump II showed significantly higher number of colonies than the other Clumps. Moreover, ahMNCs derived from Clump II (ahMNCs-Clump II) showed stable proliferation, and shortened the time to first passage from 19 to 15 days, and the time to 1 × 109 cells from 42 to 34 days compared with the previous single-cell method. ahMNCs-Clump II had neural differentiation and pro-angiogenic potentials, which are the characteristics of ahMNCs. In conclusion, the novel clump culture method for ahMNCs has significantly higher efficiency than previous techniques. Considering the small amount of available human brain tissue, the clump culture method would promote further clinical applications of ahMNCs.
Modeling and Visualizing Smart City Mobility Business Ecosystems: Insights from a Case Study
Authors: Faber Anne , Rehm Sven-Volker , Hernandez-Mendez Adrian , Matthes Florian
Published: October 2018

Smart mobility is a central issue in the recent discourse about urban development policy towards smart cities. The design of innovative and sustainable mobility infrastructures as well as public policies require cooperation and innovations between various stakeholders—businesses as well as policy makers—of the business ecosystems that emerge around smart city initiatives. This poses a challenge for deploying instruments and approaches for the proactive management of such business ecosystems. In this article, we report on findings from a smart city initiative we have used as a case study to inform the development, implementation, and prototypical deployment of a visual analytic system (VAS). As results of our design science research we present an agile framework to collaboratively collect, aggregate and map data about the ecosystem. The VAS and the agile framework are intended to inform and stimulate knowledge flows between ecosystem stakeholders in order to reflect on viable business and policy strategies. Agile processes and roles to collaboratively manage and adapt business ecosystem models and visualizations are defined. We further introduce basic categories for identifying, assessing and selecting Internet data sources that provide the data for ecosystem models and we detail the ecosystem data and view models developed in our case study. Our model represents a first explication of categories for visualizing business ecosystem models in a smart city mobility context.
Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes Containing Benzoxazole Derivatives and Different Ancillary Ligands for Catalytic Oxidation of Toluene
Authors: Chen Kelvin H.-C. , Liu Pei-Chun , Chen Tsun-Ren , Chen Jhy-Der
Published: October 2018

A series of cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes that have the general formula [(C^N)2Ir(NR)(X)] (C^N = monoanionic bidentate cyclometalating ligands; NR = pyridine derivatives; X = Cl− or I−) are designed, prepared, and applied for the transformation of toluene to benzaldehyde using a clean, highly efficient, and environmentally-friendly process. The activation energies that are needed for the catalytic oxidation of toluene when using these complexes as catalysts are quite low: between 22.9 and 30.8 kcal mol−1. The catalytic frequencies (TOF) are fairly high (up to 7.0 × 102 h−1) with excellent reliability, and the turnover number (TON) can reach 4.2 × 103 after 6 h of processing time. Catalytic tests, X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES), and kinetic modeling are used to derive detailed insights into the characteristics of the catalysts and their effects on the reactions that are featured in the catalytic oxidation of toluene.
An Infant with Xpert® Confirmed TB Meningitis in Central Viet Nam
Authors: Nguyen Phuong T. K. , Thai Trang T. B. , Huynh Julie , Marais Ben J.
Published: October 2018

A 5-month-old boy presented with a focal seizure. Disseminated (miliary) tuberculosis (TB) was diagnosed on chest radiograph and TB meningitis was confirmed using Xpert MTB/RIF®. The case represents the first instance of cerebrospinal fluid Xpert MTB/RIF® testing in children in central Viet Nam. Family screening diagnosed the father with sputum smear-positive TB. The mother and a 2-year-old sibling had no symptoms or signs of TB disease and started preventive therapy. Early TB meningitis diagnosis is the single most important factor influencing clinical outcome, but is difficult due to the non-specific signs and symptoms at disease onset. Late diagnosis is associated with high mortality and severe neurologic handicap, which emphasizes the value of TB preventive therapy in vulnerable young children in close contact with an infectious TB case (recent is generally defined as within the last 12 months).
The Synthesis Process and Thermal Stability of V2C MXene
Authors: Wu Meng , Wang Bingxin , Hu Qianku , Wang Libo , Zhou Aiguo
Published: October 2018

The effect of etching solution on the synthesis process of two-dimensional vanadium carbide (V2C MXene) was researched. Three etching solutions were used to etch ternary carbide V2AlC at 90 °C. The three solutions were: lithium fluoride + hydrochloric acid (LiF + HCl), sodium fluoride + hydrochloric acid (LiF + HCl), and potassium fluoride + hydrochloric acid (KF + HCl). It was found that only NaF + HCl solution was effective for synthesizing highly pure V2C MXene. The existence of sodium (Na+) and chloridion (Cl−) in etching solution was essential for the synthesis. The thermal stability of the as-prepared V2C MXene in argon or air was studied. From thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis, V2C MXene was found to be stable in argon atmosphere at a temperature of up to 375 °C. As the temperature increased, V2C MXene was gradually oxidized to form nanoparticles composed of vanadium trioxide (V2O3) and a part of V2C MXene was broken and transformed to vanadium carbide (V8C7) at 1000 °C. In air atmosphere, V2C MXene was stable at 150 °C. At 1000 °C, V2C MXene was oxidized to form vanadium pentoxide (V2O5).
Numerical Simulation of Thermal Processes in a Domain of Thin Metal Film Subjected to an Ultrashort Laser Pulse
Authors: Majchrzak Ewa , Mochnacki Bohdan
Published: October 2018

A thin metal film subjected to an ultrashort laser pulse is considered. With a sufficiently high laser intensity the process of the film heating may cause metal melting and even ablation. In this work, the numerical model of the melting and resolidification processes is presented. The mathematical model is based on the dual phase lag equation in which two positive constants appear, this means the relaxation and thermalization times. The considered equation contains a second-order time derivative and higher order mixed derivative in both time and space and should be supplemented by the appropriate boundary and initial conditions. The model of the melting and resolidification is presented in two versions. The first can be called ‘the introduction of the artificial mushy zone sub-domain’, while the second ‘the two forms of the basic energy equation’. At the stage of numerical computations, the implicit scheme of the finite difference method is used. The numerical algorithm is tested for the two proposed models which are applied to the computations concerning the thermal processes occurring in the cylindrical micro-domain (chromium, gold) subjected to an ultrashort laser pulse.
Influence of Bitumen Type and Asphalt Mixture Composition on Low-Temperature Strength Properties According to Various Test Methods
Authors: Pszczola Marek , Szydlowski Cezary
Published: October 2018

In regions with low-temperatures, action transverse cracks can appear in asphalt pavements as a result of thermal stresses that exceed the fracture strength of materials used in asphalt layers. To better understand thermal cracking phenomenon, strength properties of different asphalt mixtures were investigated. Four test methods were used to assess the influence of bitumen type and mixture composition on tensile strength properties of asphalt mixtures: tensile strength was measured using the thermal stress restrained specimen test (TSRST) and the uniaxial tension stress test (UTST), flexural strength was measured using the bending beam test (BBT), and fracture toughness was measured using the semi-circular bending test (SCB). The strength reserve behavior of tested asphalt mixtures was assessed as well. The influence of cooling rate on the strength reserve was investigated and correlations between results from different test methods were also analyzed and discussed. It was observed that the type of bitumen was a factor of crucial importance to low-temperature properties of the tested asphalt concretes. This conclusion was valid for all test methods that were used. It was also observed that the level of cooling rate influenced the strength reserve and, in consequence, resistance to low-temperature cracking. It was concluded that reasonably good correlations were observed between strength results for the UTST, BBT, and SCB test methods.
Use of Gold Nanoparticles as Substrate for Diffusive Monitoring of Gaseous Mercury
Authors: Papa Paolo , Fratoddi Ilaria , Venditti Iole , Vichi Francesca , Macagnano Antonella , Zampetti Emiliano , Bearzotti Andrea
Published: October 2018

In the present work, the study and the performances of an adsorbent material for gaseous mercury employed in different diffusive bodies geometries is presented. The material is based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) deposited on quartz fibres filters, suitable for bonding the gaseous mercury through an amalgamation process. Following thermal desorption and analysis, the behavior of different diffusive samplers prototypes was compared. Both indoor and outdoor exposures were carried out in order to evaluate the advantages and shortcomings of the geometries in study at different sites. From the outdoor long-term exposures, a constant uptake rate (Ur), with a low influence coming from the environmental conditions, was observed for the axial geometry, reporting a high coefficient of determination (R2 0.97). Indoor exposures showed a higher reproducibility, along with a higher coefficient of determination (R2 0.99). The presented results allowed us to observe different behaviors coming from two kinds of diffusive samplers designs, showing different adsorption rates and data dispersion. This allowed us to focalize our attention on the most suitable design from these two tested prototypes, for this kind of adsorbent material.
The Effect of Process Parameters in Helical Rolling of Balls on the Quality of Products and the Forming Process
Authors: Tomczak Janusz , Pater Zbigniew , Bulzak Tomasz
Published: October 2018

This paper presents selected numerical and experimental results of a skew rolling process for producing balls using helical tools. The study investigates the effect of the billet’s initial temperature on the quality of produced balls and the rolling process itself. In addition, the effect of billet diameter on the quality of produced balls is investigated. Experimental tests were performed using a helical rolling mill available at the Lublin University of Technology. The experiments consisted of rolling 40 mm diameter balls with the use of two helical tools. To determine optimal rolling parameters ensuring the highest quality of produced balls, numerical modelling was performed using the finite element method in the Forge software. The numerical analysis involved the determination of metal flow kinematics, temperature and damage criterion distributions, as well as the measurement of variations in the force parameters. The results demonstrate that the highest quality balls are produced from billet preheated to approximately 1000 °C.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Spumigin Analogues Library with Thrombin Inhibitory Activity
Authors: Žula Aleš , Będziak Izabela , Kikelj Danijel , Ilaš Janez
Published: October 2018

Spumigins are marine natural products derived from cyanobacteria Nodularia spumigena, which mimics the structure of the d-Phe-Pro-Arg sequence and is crucial for binding to the active site of serine proteases thrombin and factor Xa. Biological evaluation of spumigins showed that spumigins with a (2S,4S)-4-methylproline central core represent potential lead compounds for the development of a new structural type of direct thrombin inhibitors. Herein, we represent synthesis and thrombin inhibitory activity of a focused library of spumigins analogues with indoline ring or l-proline as a central core. Novel compounds show additional insight into the structure and biological effects of spumigins. The most active analogue was found to be a derivative containing l-proline central core with low micromolar thrombin inhibitory activity.
Electrostatic Separation of Copper and Glass Particles in Pretreated Automobile Shredder Residue
Authors: Kim Beom-Uk , Park Chul-Hyun
Published: October 2018

There is increasing demand for an efficient technique for separating automobile shredder residue (ASR) obtained from end-of-life vehicles (ELVs). A particular challenge is the physical separation of conductive materials from glass. In this study, the performance of pretreatment and induction electrostatic separation process was evaluated. The results show that a sieving/washing (combination of sieving and washing) pretreatment was the most effective for removing conductive material compared to electrostatic separation alone. The optimum separation efficiency of copper products was achieved with an applied voltage of 20 kV, a relative humidity of less than 35%, and a splitter position of 8 cm. Although the separation efficiency was slightly reduced when some small glass particles remained attached to the conductive materials, the separation efficiency of copper from the pretreated ASR dramatically increased to 83.1% grade and 90.4% recovery, compared to that of raw ASR (34.3% grade and 58.6% recovery). Based on these results, it was demonstrated that the proposed sieving/washing pretreatment was proficient at removing conductive materials from glass; thus, it has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency of electrostatic separation for ASR.
A Study on An EMG Sensor with High Gain and Low Noise for Measuring Human Muscular Movement Patterns for Smart Healthcare
Authors: Yuk Sun-Woo , Hwang In-Ho , Cho Hyeon-Rae , Park Sang-Geon
Published: October 2018

The form of the collection of bio-signals is becoming increasingly integrated and smart to meet the demands of the age of smart healthcare and the Fourth Industrial Revolution. In addition, the movement patterns of human muscles are also becoming more complex due to diversification of the human living environment. An analysis of the movement patterns of normal people’s muscles contracting with age and that of patients who are being treated in a hospital, including the disabled, will help improve life patterns, medical treatment patterns, and quality of life. In this study, the researchers developed a smart electromyogram (EMG) sensor which can improve human life patterns through EMG range and pattern recognition, which is beyond the conventional simple EMG measurement level. The developed sensor has a high gain of 10,000 times or more, noise of 500 uVrms or less, and common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 100 dB or more for EMG level and pattern recognition. The pattern recognition time of the sensor is 30 s. All the circuits developed in this study have a phase margin of 75 degrees or more for stability. Standard 0.25 μm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology was used for the integrated circuit design. The system error rate was confirmed to be 1% or less through a clinical trial conducted on five males in their 40s and three females in their 30s for the past two years. The muscle activities of all subjects of the clinical trial were improved by about 21% by changing their life patterns based on EMG pattern recognition.
Estimation of Blood Pressure in the Radial Artery Using Strain-Based Pulse Wave and Photoplethysmography Sensors
Authors: Wang Yu-Jen , Chen Chia-Hsien , Sue Chung-Yang , Lu Wen-Hsien , Chiou Yee-Hsuan
Published: October 2018

Blood pressure (BP) is a crucial indicator of cardiac health and vascular status. This study explores the relationship between radial artery BP and wrist skin strain. A BP estimation method based on the physical model of wrist skin tissues and pulse wave velocity (PWV) is proposed. A photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor and strain gauge are used in this method. The developed strain-based pulse wave sensor consists of a pressing force sensor, which ensures consistent pressing force, and a strain gauge, which measures the cardiac pulsation on the wrist skin. These features enable long-term BP monitoring without incurring the limb compression caused by a cuff. Thus, this method is useful for individuals requiring continuous BP monitoring. In this study, the BP of each participant was measured in three modes (before, during, and after exercise), and the data were compared using a clinically validated sphygmomanometer. The percentage errors of diastolic and systolic BP readings were, respectively, 4.74% and 4.49% before exercise, 6.38% and 6.10% during exercise, and 5.98% and 4.81% after a rest. The errors were compared with a clinically validated sphygmomanometer.
A Temperature-Compensated Single-Crystal Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) MEMS Oscillator with a CMOS Amplifier Chip
Authors: Islam Mohammad S. , Wei Ran , Lee Jaesung , Xie Yong , Mandal Soumyajit , Feng Philip X.-L.
Published: October 2018

Self-sustained feedback oscillators referenced to MEMS/NEMS resonators have the potential for a wide range of applications in timing and sensing systems. In this paper, we describe a real-time temperature compensation approach to improving the long-term stability of such MEMS-referenced oscillators. This approach is implemented on a ~26.8 kHz self-sustained MEMS oscillator that integrates the fundamental in-plane mode resonance of a single-crystal silicon-on-insulator (SOI) resonator with a programmable and reconfigurable single-chip CMOS sustaining amplifier. Temperature compensation using a linear equation fit and look-up table (LUT) is used to obtain the near-zero closed-loop temperature coefficient of frequency (TCf) at around room temperature (~25 °C). When subject to small temperature fluctuations in an indoor environment, the temperature-compensated oscillator shows a >2-fold improvement in Allan deviation over the uncompensated counterpart on relatively long time scales (averaging time τ > 10,000 s), as well as overall enhanced stability throughout the averaging time range from τ = 1 to 20,000 s. The proposed temperature compensation algorithm has low computational complexity and memory requirement, making it suitable for implementation on energy-constrained platforms such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensor nodes.
Regulation of DNA Double-Strand Break Repair by Non-Coding RNAs
Authors: Thapar Roopa
Published: October 2018

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are deleterious lesions that are generated in response to ionizing radiation or replication fork collapse that can lead to genomic instability and cancer. Eukaryotes have evolved two major pathways, namely homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) to repair DSBs. Whereas the roles of protein-DNA interactions in HR and NHEJ have been fairly well defined, the functions of small and long non-coding RNAs and RNA-DNA hybrids in the DNA damage response is just beginning to be elucidated. This review summarizes recent discoveries on the identification of non-coding RNAs and RNA-mediated regulation of DSB repair.
HPLC-UV/Vis-APCI-MS/MS Determination of Major Carotenoids and Their Bioaccessibility from “Delica” (Cucurbita maxima) and “Violina” (Cucurbita moschata) Pumpkins as Food Traceability Markers
Authors: Bergantin Caterina , Maietti Annalisa , Tedeschi Paola , Font Guillermina , Manyes Lara , Marchetti Nicola
Published: October 2018

Carotenoids are a widespread group of fat-soluble pigments, and their major nutritional importance comes from their pro-vitamin A activity and their antioxidant capacity. In this study, two different pumpkin cultivars (Cucurbita maxima, also named ‘Delica’ and Cucurbita moschata, also known as ‘Violina’) from the southern Po Delta area were investigated in terms of carotenoid content and the influence of food processing on compositional changes and carotenoid bioaccessibility. Quali- and quantitative determination of carotenoids in sample extracts were performed on a C30 column by means of an online coupled HPLC-UV/Vis-APCI-MS/MS technique. The identification of separated compounds was tentatively achieved by merging (i) chromatographic data, (ii) UV-Vis spectra, and (iii) MS/MS fragmentation spectra. The chromatographic profiles for the two cultivars showed qualitative differences. Two major carotenoids were considered for quantification purposes and further investigations: lutein and β -carotene. Quantification of target carotenoids was performed with external calibration through analytical standards. The concentration of lutein and β -carotene was higher in C. maxima than in the other variety, C. moschata. Carotenoids are susceptible to degradation (isomerization and oxidation) during food processing (i.e., cooking), and the concentration of lutein and β -carotene were monitored in oven-cooked and steam-cooked pumpkins. The steam-cooking process was superior in terms of limiting carotenoid loss. A complete functional profile of pumpkins as a source of carotenoids was gained with the evaluation of their in vitro bioaccessibility and their bioavailability after intake during human digestion. Bioaccessibility of lutein and β -carotene were estimated by an in vitro static digestion model that involved salivary, gastric, and duodenal phases. Bioaccessibility values progressively increased from the salivary to the duodenal phase for both pumpkin varieties and cooking methods. Bioaccessibility of lutein was always lower than β -carotene for both cultivars and for both cooking methods. Bioaccessibility values for lutein and β -carotene changed from 1.93% to 2.34% vs. 4.94% and 8.83% in the salivary phase, from 2.7% to 4.63% vs. 7.83% and 15.60% in the gastric phase, and from 10.04% to 13.42% vs. 25.81% and 35.32% in the duodenal phase. For both target compounds, bioaccessibility in the duodenal phase was more than twice the gastric values, and it underlined that the type of cooking did not influence release from the initial matrix.
A Novel Integrated Way for Deciphering the Glycan Code for the FimH Lectin
Authors: Dumych Tetiana , Bridot Clarisse , Gouin Sébastien G. , Lensink Marc F. , Paryzhak Solomiya , Szunerits Sabine , Blossey Ralf , Bilyy Rostyslav , Bouckaert Julie , Krammer Eva-Maria
Published: October 2018

The fimbrial lectin FimH from uro- and enteropathogenic Escherichia coli binds with nanomolar affinity to oligomannose glycans exposing Manα1,3Man dimannosides at their non-reducing end, but only with micromolar affinities to Manα1,2Man dimannosides. These two dimannoses play a significantly distinct role in infection by E. coli. Manα1,2Man has been described early on as shielding the (Manα1,3Man) glycan that is more relevant to strong bacterial adhesion and invasion. We quantified the binding of the two dimannoses (Manα1,2Man and Manα1,3Man to FimH using ELLSA and isothermal microcalorimetry and calculated probabilities of binding modes using molecular dynamics simulations. Our experimentally and computationally determined binding energies confirm a higher affinity of FimH towards the dimannose Manα1,3Man. Manα1,2Man displays a much lower binding enthalpy combined with a high entropic gain. Most remarkably, our molecular dynamics simulations indicate that Manα1,2Man cannot easily take its major conformer from water into the FimH binding site and that FimH is interacting with two very different conformers of Manα1,2Man that occupy 42% and 28% respectively of conformational space. The finding that Manα1,2Man binding to FimH is unstable agrees with the earlier suggestion that E. coli may use the Manα1,2Man epitope for transient tethering along cell surfaces in order to enhance dispersion of the infection.
Curvulin and Phaeosphaeride A from Paraphoma sp. VIZR 1.46 Isolated from Cirsium arvense as Potential Herbicides
Authors: Poluektova Ekaterina , Tokarev Yuriy , Sokornova Sofia , Chisty Leonid , Evidente Antonio , Berestetskiy Alexander
Published: October 2018

Phoma-like fungi are known as producers of diverse spectrum of secondary metabolites, including phytotoxins. Our bioassays had shown that extracts of Paraphoma sp. VIZR 1.46, a pathogen of Cirsium arvense, are phytotoxic. In this study, two phytotoxically active metabolites were isolated from Paraphoma sp. VIZR 1.46 liquid and solid cultures and identified as curvulin and phaeosphaeride A, respectively. The latter is reported also for the first time as a fungal phytotoxic product with potential herbicidal activity. Both metabolites were assayed for phytotoxic, antimicrobial and zootoxic activities. Curvulin and phaeosphaeride A were tested on weedy and agrarian plants, fungi, Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and on paramecia. Curvulin was shown to be weakly phytotoxic, while phaeosphaeride A caused severe necrotic lesions on all the tested plants. To evaluate phaeosphaeride A’s herbicidal efficacy, the phytotoxic activity of this compound in combination with five different adjuvants was studied. Hasten at 0.1% (v/v) was found to be the most potent and compatible adjuvant, and its combination with 0.5% (v/v) semi-purified extract of Paraphoma sp. VIZR 1.46 solid culture exhibited maximum damage to C. arvense plants. These findings may offer significant importance for further investigation of herbicidal potential of phaeosphaeride A and possibly in devising new herbicide of natural origin.
TrypanocidalActivity of Natural Sesquiterpenoids Involves Mitochondrial Dysfunction, ROS Production and Autophagic Phenotype in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Bombaça Ana Cristina Souza , Von Dossow Daniela , Barbosa Juliana Magalhães Chaves , Paz Cristian , Burgos Viviana , Menna-Barreto Rubem Figueiredo Sadok
Published: October 2018

Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease that is caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and represents a serious health problem, especially in Latin America. The clinical treatment of Chagas disease is based on two nitroderivatives that present severe side effects and important limitations. In folk medicine, natural products, including sesquiterpenoids, have been employed for the treatment of different parasitic diseases. In this study, the trypanocidal activity of compounds isolated from the Chilean plants Drimys winteri, Podanthus mitiqui and Maytenus boaria on three T. cruzi evolutive forms (epimastigote, trypomastigote and amastigote) was evaluated. Total extracts and seven isolated sesquiterpenoids were assayed on trypomastigotes and epimastigotes. Polygodial (Pgd) from D. winteri, total extract from P. mitiqui (PmTE) and the germacrane erioflorin (Efr) from P. mitiqui were the most bioactive substances. Pgd, Efr and PmTE also presented strong effects on intracellular amastigotes and low host toxicity. Many ultrastructural effects of these substances, including reservosome disruption, cytosolic vacuolization, autophagic phenotype and mitochondrial swelling (in the case of Pgd), were observed. Flow cytometric analysis demonstrated a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential in treated epimastigotes and an increase in ROS production and high plasma membrane permeability after treatment with Pgd. The promising trypanocidal activity of these natural sesquiterpenoids may be a good starting point for the development of alternative treatmentsforChagas disease.
Bis(6-Diphenylphosphinoacenaphth-5-yl)Telluride as a Ligand toward Manganese and Rhenium Carbonyls
Authors: Do Truong Giang , Hupf Emanuel , Lork Enno , Beckmann Jens
Published: October 2018

The reaction of the previously known bis(6-diphenylphosphinoacenaphthyl-5-)telluride (6-Ph2P-Ace-5-)2Te (IV) with (CO)5ReCl and (CO)5MnBr proceeded with the liberation of CO and provided fac-(6-Ph2P-Ace-5-)2TeM(X)(CO)3 (fac-1: M = Re, X = Cl; fac-2: M = Mn, X = Br), in which IV acts as bidentate ligand. In solution, fac-1 and fac-2 are engaged in a reversible equilibrium with mer-(6-Ph2P-Ace-5-)2TeM(X)(CO)3 (mer-1: M = Re, X = Cl; mer-2: M = Mn, X = Br). Unlike fac-1, fac-2 is prone to release another equivalent of CO to give (6-Ph2P-Ace-5-)2TeMn(Br)(CO)2 (3), in which IV serves as tridentate ligand.
Review of Biomedical Applications of Contactless Imaging of Neonates Using Infrared Thermography and Beyond
Authors: AlZubaidi Abbas K. , Ethawi Yahya , Schmölzer Georg M. , Sherif Sherif , Narvey Michael , Seshia Molly
Published: October 2018

The sick preterm infant monitoring is an intriguing job that medical staff in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) must deal with on a daily basis. As a standards monitoring procedure, preterm infants are monitored via sensors and electrodes that are firmly attached to their fragile and delicate skin and connected to processing monitors. However, an alternative exists in contactless imaging to record such physiological signals (we call it as Physio-Markers), detecting superficial changes and internal structures activities which can be used independently of, or aligned with, conventional monitors. Countless advantages can be gained from unobtrusive monitoring not limited to: (1) quick data generation; (2) decreasing physical and direct contact with skin, which reduces skin breakdown and minimizes risk of infection; and (3) reduction of electrodes and probes connected to clinical monitors and attached to the skin, which allows greater body surface-area for better care. This review is an attempt to build a solid ground for and to provide a clear perspective of the potential clinical applications of technologies inside NICUs that use contactless imaging modalities such as Visible Light Imaging (VLI), Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), and Infrared Thermography (IRT).