bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A PARTICLE SWARM ALGORITHM FOR MANUAL LIFTING TASKS DESIGN
Authors: AKALIN Harika , SEÇKİNER Serap , EROĞLU Yunus
Published: January 2019

In recent years although the Industry 4.0 concept, which has been used
in almost all stages, is still on the agenda, many lifting operations are still
carried out manually. In terms of occupational health and safety, many legal regulations and
the standards brought by various institutes, especially suitable for manual
transport work is an important problem. Generally related to the lifting work; weight, working environment, load
related shape, ease of handling etc. while the information is known, where the
load is to be moved, how often, how much height and distance to be taken into
consideration, the best values in terms of workplace design are the parameters
that should be found when the laws and regulations are taken into
consideration. The aim of this study is
to propose a workplace design that minimizes physical stress by considering the
predefined conditions for the work to be done. Particle Swarm Optimization
Algorithm has been used to design safe working areas for jobs requiring load
removal within the constraints of the work area. Test problems related to workplace design which minimizes manual load lifting
index presented by NIOSH are solved and compared with current studies. The proposed algorithm offers better designs compared
to existing methods in such problems.
A Pricing Strategy of E-Commerce Advertising Cooperation in the Stackelberg Game Model with Different Market Power Structure
Authors: Zhu Ling , Lin Jie
Published: January 2019

A lot of research work has studied the auction mechanism of uncertain advertising cooperation between the e-commerce platform and advertisers, but little has focused on pricing strategy in stable advertising cooperation under a certain market power structure. To fill this gap, this paper makes a study of the deep interest distribution of two parties in such cooperation. We propose a pricing strategy by building two stackelberg master-slave models when the e-commerce platform and the advertiser are respectively the leader in the cooperation. It is analyzed that the optimization solution of the profits of both parties and the total system are affected by some main decision factors including the income commission proportion, the advertising product price and the cost of advertising effort of both parties’ brand in different dominant models. Then, some numerical studies are used to verify the effectiveness of the models. Finally, we draw a conclusion and make some suggestions to the platforms and the advertisers in the e-commerce advertising cooperation.
Power Allocation Algorithm for an Energy-Harvesting Wireless Transmission System Considering Energy Losses
Authors: Zhao Su , Huang Gang , Zhu Qi
Published: January 2019

For an energy-harvesting wireless transmission system, considering that a transmitter which can harvest energy from nature has two kinds of extra energy consumption, circuit consumption and storage losses, the optimization models are set up in this paper for the purpose of maximizing the average throughput of the system within a certain period of time for both a time-invariant channel and time-varying channel. Convex optimization methods such as the Lagrange multiplier method and the KKT (Karush–Kuhn–Tucker) condition are used to solve the optimization problem; then, an optimal offline power allocation algorithm which has a three-threshold structure is proposed. In the three-threshold algorithm, two thresholds can be achieved by using a linear search method while the third threshold is calculated according to the channel state information and energy losses; then, the offline power allocation is based on the three thresholds and energy arrivals. Furthermore, inspired by the optimal offline algorithm, a low-complexity online algorithm with adaptive thresholds is derived. Finally, the simulation results show that the offline power allocation algorithms proposed in this paper are better than other algorithms, the performance of the online algorithm proposed is close to the offline one, and these algorithms can help improve the average throughput of the system.
The Past, Present, and Future of Barley Yellow Dwarf Management
Authors: Walls Joseph , Rajotte Edwin , Rosa Cristina
Published: January 2019

Barley yellow dwarf (BYD) has been described as the most devastating cereal grain disease worldwide causing between 11% and 33% yield loss in wheat fields. There has been little focus on management of the disease in the literature over the past twenty years, although much of the United States still suffers disease outbreaks. With this review, we provide the most up-to-date information on BYD management used currently in the USA. After a brief summary of the ecology of BYD viruses, vectors, and plant hosts with respect to their impact on disease management, we discuss historical management techniques that include insecticide seed treatment, planting date alteration, and foliar insecticide sprays. We then report interviews with grain disease specialists who indicated that these techniques are still used today and have varying impacts. Interestingly, it was also found that many places around the world that used to be highly impacted by the disease; i.e. the United Kingdom, Italy, and Australia, no longer consider the disease a problem due to the wide adoption of the aforementioned management techniques. Finally, we discuss the potential of using BYD and aphid population models in the literature, in combination with web-based decision-support systems, to correctly time management techniques.
A Review of Welfare Assessment Methods in Reptiles, and Preliminary Application of the Welfare Quality® Protocol to the Pygmy Blue-Tongue Skink, Tiliqua adelaidensis, Using Animal-Based Measures
Authors: Benn Amelia L. , McLelland David J. , Whittaker Alexandra L.
Published: January 2019

Reptiles are held at wildlife parks and zoos for display and conservation breeding programs and are increasingly being kept as pets. Reliable indicators of welfare for reptiles need to be identified. Current guidelines for the captive management of reptiles utilize resource-based, rather than animal-based indicators; the latter being a more direct reflection of affective state. In this paper we review the literature on welfare assessment methods in reptiles with a focus on animal-based measures. We conclude that, whilst a number of physiological and behavioral indicators of welfare have been applied in reptiles, there is need for further validation of these methods across the diversity of species within the Class. Methods of positive welfare state assessment are comparatively understudied and need elucidation. Finally, we examine some widely-used welfare assessment tools in mammals and explore the application of the Welfare Quality® Protocol to the endangered pygmy blue-tongue skink, Tiliqua adelaidensis. We propose that this framework can form the basis for the development of taxon-specific tools with consideration of species-specific biology.
Demonstration of Diode-Pumped Yb:LaF3 and Tm,Ho:LaF3 Lasers
Authors: Li Chun , Leng Yuxin , Li Shanming , Hang Yin
Published: January 2019

Diode-pumped solid-state lasers using novel Yb:LaF3 and Tm,Ho:LaF3 crystals as laser gain materials are demonstrated herein. The Yb:LaF3 and Tm,Ho:LaF3 crystals were grown using the Bridgman method. By matching their absorption bands, continuous-wave laser operations were achieved for the first time. The Yb:LaF3 laser obtained a maximum average output power of 1.19 W with dual wavelengths of 1028 nm and 1033 nm. The maximum average output power and slope efficiency of the Tm,Ho:LaF3 laser were 574 mW and 18.5%, respectively. The Tm,Ho:LaF3 laser exhibited two peaks at 2043 nm and 2048 nm. Both the Yb:LaF3 and Tm,Ho:LaF3 crystals were confirmed to be laser gain materials.
An Investigation of the Quantitative Correlation between Urban Morphology Parameters and Outdoor Ventilation Efficiency Indices
Authors: Peng Yunlong , Gao Zhi , Buccolieri Riccardo , Ding Wowo
Published: January 2019

Urban outdoor ventilation and pollutant dispersion have important implications for urban design and planning. In this paper, two urban morphology parameters, i.e. the floor area ratio (FAR) and the building site coverage (BSC), are considered to investigate their quantitative correlation with urban ventilation indices. An idealized model, including nine basic units with FAR equal to 5, is considered and the BSC is increased from 11% to 77%, generating 101 non-repetitive asymmetric configurations, with attention to the influence of plan density, volume ratio, and building layout on ventilation performance within urban plot areas. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations are used to assess the ventilation efficiency at pedestrian level (2m above the ground) within each model central area. Six indices, including the air flow rate (Q), the mean age of air (τP), the net escape velocity (NEV), the purging flow rate (PFR), the visitation frequency (VF), and the resident time (TP) are used to assess the local ventilation performance. Results clearly show that, fixing the FAR, the local ventilation performance is not linearly related to BSC, but it also depends on buildings arrangement. Specifically, as the BSC increases, the ventilation in the central area does not keep reducing. On the contrary, some forms with low BSC have poor ventilation and some particular configurations with high BSC have better ventilation, which indicates that not all high-density configurations experience poor ventilation. The local ventilation performance can be effectively improved by rationally arranging the buildings. Even though the application of these results to real cities requires further research, the present findings suggest a preliminary way to build up a correlation between urban morphology parameters and ventilation efficiency tailored to develop a feasible framework for urban designers.
Heterogeneous Freezing of Liquid Suspensions Including Juices and Extracts from Berries and Leaves from Perennial Plants
Authors: Felgitsch Laura , Bichler Magdalena , Burkart Julia , Fiala Bianca , Häusler Thomas , Hitzenberger Regina , Grothe Hinrich
Published: January 2019

Heterogeneous ice nucleation in the atmosphere is not fully understood. In particular, our knowledge of biological materials and their atmospheric ice nucleation properties remains scarce. Here, we present the results from systematic investigations of the ice nucleation activity of plant materials using cryo-microscopy. We examined berry juices, frozen berries, as well as extracts of leaves and dried berries of plants native to boreal regions. All of our samples possess reasonable ice nucleation activity. Their ice nucleating particle concentrations per unit of water volume vary between 9.7 × 105 and 9.2 × 109 cm−3 when examined within temperatures of −12 to −34 °C. Mean freezing temperatures ranged from −18.5 to −45.6 °C. We show that all samples contained ice nuclei in a size range below 0.2 µm and remain active if separated from coarse plant tissue. The results of examining ice nucleation properties of leaves and dry berry extracts suggests that their ice-nucleating components can be easily suspended in water. Sea buckthorn and black currant were analyzed using subtilisin (a protease) and urea. Results suggest proteinaceous compounds to play an important role in their ice nucleation activity. These results show that separation between ice nucleation particles stemming from microorganisms and those stemming from plants cannot be differentiated solely on proteinaceous features. Further oxidation experiments with ozone showed that black currant is highly stable towards ozone oxidation, indicating a long atmospheric life time.
A Turbulence-Oriented Approach to Retrieve Various Atmospheric Parameters Using Advanced Lidar Data Processing Techniques
Authors: Rosu Iulian-Alin , Cazacu Marius-Mihai , Prelipceanu Otilia Sanda , Agop Maricel
Published: January 2019

The article is aimed at presenting a semi-empirical model coded and computed in the programming language Python, which utilizes data gathered with a standard biaxial elastic lidar platform in order to calculate the altitude profiles of the structure coefficients of the atmospheric refraction index C N 2 ( z ) and other associated turbulence parameters. Additionally, the model can be used to calculate the PBL (Planetary Boundary Layer) height, and other parameters typically employed in the field of astronomy. Solving the Fernard–Klett inversion by correlating sun-photometer data obtained through our AERONET site with lidar data, it can yield the atmospheric extinction and backscatter profiles α ( z ) and β ( z ) , and thus obtain the atmospheric optical depth. Finally, several theoretical notions of interest that utilize the solved parameters are presented, such as approximated relations between C N 2 ( z ) and the atmospheric temperature profile T ( z ) , and between the scintillation of backscattered lidar signal and the average wind speed profile U ( z ) . These obtained profiles and parameters also have several environmental applications that are connected directly and indirectly to human health and well-being, ranging from understanding the transport of aerosols in the atmosphere and minimizing the errors in measuring it, to predicting extreme, and potentially-damaging, meteorological events.
A New Identity for Generalized Hypergeometric Functions and Applications
Authors: Masjed-Jamei Mohammad , Koepf Wolfram
Published: January 2019

We establish a new identity for generalized hypergeometric functions and apply it for first- and second-kind Gauss summation formulas to obtain some new summation formulas. The presented identity indeed extends some results of the recent published paper (Some summation theorems for generalized hypergeometric functions, Axioms, 7 (2018), Article 38).
BIOFACQUIM: A Mexican Compound Database of Natural Products
Authors: Pilón-Jiménez B. Angélica , Saldívar-González Fernanda I. , Díaz-Eufracio Bárbara I. , Medina-Franco José L.
Published: January 2019

Compound databases of natural products have a major impact on drug discovery projects and other areas of research. The number of databases in the public domain with compounds with natural origins is increasing. Several countries, Brazil, France, Panama and, recently, Vietnam, have initiatives in place to construct and maintain compound databases that are representative of their diversity. In this proof-of-concept study, we discuss the first version of BIOFACQUIM, a novel compound database with natural products isolated and characterized in Mexico. We discuss its construction, curation, and a complete chemoinformatic characterization of the content and coverage in chemical space. The profile of physicochemical properties, scaffold content, and diversity, as well as structural diversity based on molecular fingerprints is reported. BIOFACQUIM is available for free.
Umbilical Cord Blood Mesenchymal Stem Cells as an Infertility Treatment for Chemotherapy Induced Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
Authors: Mohamed Sara A. , Shalaby Shahinaz , Brakta Soumia , Elam Lelyand , Elsharoud Amro , Al-Hendy Ayman
Published: January 2019

Background: Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a challenging disease, with limited treatment options at the moment. Umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (UCMSCs) have demonstrated promising regenerative abilities in several diseases including POI. Materials and Method: A pre-clinical murine case versus vehicle control randomized study. Two experiments ran in parallel in each of the three groups. The first was to prove the ability of UCMSCs in restoring ovarian functions. The second was to prove improved fertility. A total of 36 mice were randomly assigned; 6 mice into each of 3 groups for two experiments. Group 1 (control), group 2 (sham chemotherapy), group 3 (stem cells). Results: In the first experiment, post-UCMSCs treatment (group 3) showed signs of restored ovarian function in the form of increased ovarian weight and estrogen-dependent organs (liver, uterus), increased follicular number, and a significant decrease in FSH serum levels (p < 0.05) compared to group 2, and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) serum levels increased (p < 0.05) in group 3 versus group 2. Immuno-histochemistry analysis demonstrated a higher expression of AMH, follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and Inhibin A in the growing follicles of group 3 versus group 2. In the second experiment, post-UCMSCs treatment (group 3) pregnancy rates were higher than group 2, however, they were still lower than group 1. Conclusion: We demonstrated the ability of UCMSCs to restore fertility in female cancer survivors with POI and as another source of stem cells with therapeutic potentials.
Textile-Based Potentiometric Electrochemical pH Sensor for Wearable Applications
Authors: Manjakkal Libu , Dang Wenting , Yogeswaran Nivasan , Dahiya Ravinder
Published: January 2019

In this work, we present a potentiometric pH sensor on textile substrate for wearable applications. The sensitive (thick film graphite composite) and reference electrodes (Ag/AgCl) are printed on cellulose-polyester blend cloth. An excellent adhesion between printed electrodes allow the textile-based sensor to be washed with a reliable pH response. The developed textile-based pH sensor works on the basis of electrochemical reaction, as observed through the potentiometric, cyclic voltammetry (100 mV/s) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (10 mHz to 1 MHz) analysis. The electrochemical double layer formation and the ionic exchanges of the sensitive electrode-pH solution interaction are observed through the electrochemical impedance spectroscopic analysis. Potentiometric analysis reveals that the fabricated textile-based sensor exhibits a sensitivity (slope factor) of 4 mV/pH with a response time of 5 s in the pH range 6–9. The presented sensor shows stable response with a potential of 47 ± 2 mV for long time (2000 s) even after it was washed in tap water. These results indicate that the sensor can be used for wearable applications.
Ultrathin Functional Polymer Modified Graphene for Enhanced Enzymatic Electrochemical Sensing
Authors: Devadoss Anitha , Forsyth Rhiannan , Bigham Ryan , Abbasi Hina , Ali Muhammad , Tehrani Zari , Liu Yufei , Guy Owen. J.
Published: January 2019

Grafting thin polymer layers on graphene enables coupling target biomolecules to graphene surfaces, especially through amide and aldehyde linkages with carboxylic acid and primary amine derivatives, respectively. However, functionalizing monolayer graphene with thin polymer layers without affecting their exceptional electrical properties remains challenging. Herein, we demonstrate the controlled modification of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) grown single layer graphene with ultrathin polymer 1,5-diaminonaphthalene (DAN) layers using the electropolymerization technique. It is observed that the controlled electropolymerization of DAN monomer offers continuous polymer layers with thickness ranging between 5–25 nm. The surface characteristics of pure and polymer modified graphene was examined. As anticipated, the number of surface amine groups increases with increases in the layer thickness. The effects of polymer thickness on the electron transfer rates were studied in detail and a simple route for the estimation of surface coverage of amine groups was demonstrated using the electrochemical analysis. The implications of grafting ultrathin polymer layers on graphene towards horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme immobilization and enzymatic electrochemical sensing of H2O2 were discussed elaborately.
Executive Function in Fragile X Syndrome: A Systematic Review
Authors: Schmitt Lauren M. , Shaffer Rebecca C. , Hessl David , Erickson Craig
Published: January 2019

Executive function (EF) supports goal-directed behavior and includes key aspects such as working memory, inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, attention, processing speed, and planning. Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the leading inherited monogenic cause of intellectual disability and is phenotypically characterized by EF deficits beyond what is expected given general cognitive impairments. Yet, a systematic review of behavioral studies using performance-based measures is needed to provide a summary of EF deficits across domains in males and females with FXS, discuss clinical and biological correlates of these EF deficits, identify critical limitations in available research, and offer suggestions for future studies in this area. Ultimately, this review aims to advance our understanding of the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to EF in FXS and to inform the development of outcome measures of EF and identification of new treatment targets in FXS.
A Conceptual Model for a Safety-Based Theory of Lean Construction
Authors: Moaveni Soheila , Banihashemi Seyed Yaser , Mojtahedi Mohammad
Published: January 2019

The construction industry is one of the most fatal industries, so it is important to pay more attention to safety solutions. Even though work-related accidents are known as a major waste in construction projects, little attention has been paid so far to incorporating safety into the lean construction framework. In this research, lean construction theory is reviewed through the lens of safety. That being so, the identified challenges in previous research on improving safety in construction projects are categorized, and those related to the concept of lean project delivery are introduced. Then, the principles of the lean construction framework are explained, and the relevant changes for incorporating safety into the framework are introduced and discussed. The proposed model includes a new approach to the Transformation-Flow-Value framework, in order to pay particular attention to safety in construction projects as one of the factors affecting the success of projects, and achieving optimal value for stakeholders. It is expected that this hybrid model would further enrich the lean construction framework. The careful attention of project executives to this model may improve the safety situation in construction projects. The conceptual model presented in this study can be used in the decision making process for project managers as well as research into optimization of safety costs, and eliminating waste (including models for optimizing the movement of machinery, controlling and reducing rework, and designing the site layout).
Implementation Phase Safety System for Minimising Construction Project Waste
Authors: Mahfuth Kamal , Loulizi Amara , Al Hallaq Khalid , Tayeh Bassam A.
Published: January 2019

The construction sector is a key component of a nation’s gross domestic product, but its inherent nature results in potentially dangerous conditions that affect the safety of all workers on construction projects (CPs). Therefore, the original idea of the research is to determine the relationship between safety system (SS) during the implementation phase (IPh) of CPs and the minimisation of waste (materials, time and cost). Achieving a lean construction work requires suitable planning, safety considerations and waste resource minimisation throughout the project cycle. This research aims to identify and rank the safety factors during the IPh of a CP, which will have positive effects on minimising waste. Information and data were gathered from the existing literature and the structured interviews and questionnaire survey conducted among 111 randomly selected construction companies. Questionnaire results were evaluated using statistical tools, such as hypothesis testing, analysis of variance and linear regression. This research identified and ranked 24 important safety factors with positive effects on minimising waste in CPs during IPh. The seven most important safety factors that should be considered to minimise material, time and cost wastage are as follows: handling, management, external factors, workers, procurement, site condition and appropriate scaffolding for SS. The best linear model was developed on the basis of the importance index of the identified factors. This model can predict the minimisation of waste (materials, time and cost) in CPs by using SS. Thus, the safety criteria and SS should be used during IPh to minimise waste on the basis of the developed model.
Transfer of Extracellular Vesicle-Associated-RNAs Induces Drug Resistance in ALK-Translocated Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kwok Hoi-Hin , Ning Ziyu , Chong Peony Wing-Chi , Wan Thomas Shek-Kong , Ng Margaret Heung-Ling , Ho Gloria Y.F. , Ip Mary Sau-Man , Lam David Chi-Leung
Published: January 2019

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) translocation is an actionable mutation in lung adenocarcinoma. Nonetheless tumour consists of heterogeneous cell subpopulations with diverse phenotypes and genotypes, and cancer cells can actively release extracellular vesicles (EVs) to modulate the phenotype of other cells in the tumour microenvironment. We hypothesized that EVs derived from a drug-resistant subpopulation of cells could induce drug resistance in recipient cells. We have established ALK-translocated lung adenocarcinoma cell lines and subclones. The subclones have been characterized and the expression of EV-RNAs determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The effects of EV transfer on drug resistance were examined in vitro. Serum EV-RNA was assayed serially in two patients prescribed ALK-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (ALK-TKI) treatment. We demonstrated that the EVs from an ALK-TKI-resistant subclone could induce drug resistance in the originally sensitive subclone. EV-RNA profiling revealed that miRNAs miR-21-5p and miR-486-3p, and lncRNAs MEG3 and XIST were differentially expressed in the EVs secreted by the resistant subclones. These circulating EV-RNA levels have been found to correlate with disease progression of EML4-ALK-translocated lung adenocarcinoma in patients prescribed ALK-TKI treatment. The results from this study suggest that EVs released by a drug-resistant subpopulation can induce drug resistance in other subpopulations and may sustain intratumoural heterogeneity.
Alternating Electric Fields (TTFields) Activate Cav1.2 Channels in Human Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Neuhaus Eric , Zirjacks Lisa , Ganser Katrin , Klumpp Lukas , Schüler Uwe , Zips Daniel , Eckert Franziska , Huber Stephan M.
Published: January 2019

Tumor treating fields (TTFields) represent a novel FDA-approved treatment modality for patients with newly diagnosed or recurrent glioblastoma multiforme. This therapy applies intermediate frequency alternating electric fields with low intensity to the tumor volume by the use of non-invasive transducer electrode arrays. Mechanistically, TTFields have been proposed to impair formation of the mitotic spindle apparatus and cytokinesis. In order to identify further potential molecular targets, here the effects of TTFields on Ca2+-signaling, ion channel activity in the plasma membrane, cell cycle, cell death, and clonogenic survival were tested in two human glioblastoma cell lines in vitro by fura-2 Ca2+ imaging, patch-clamp cell-attached recordings, flow cytometry and pre-plated colony formation assay. In addition, the expression of voltage-gated Ca2+ (Cav) channels was determined by real-time RT-PCR and their significance for the cellular TTFields response defined by knock-down and pharmacological blockade. As a result, TTFields stimulated in a cell line-dependent manner a Cav1.2-mediated Ca2+ entry, G1 or S phase cell cycle arrest, breakdown of the inner mitochondrial membrane potential and DNA degradation, and/or decline of clonogenic survival suggesting a tumoricidal action of TTFields. Moreover, inhibition of Cav1.2 by benidipine aggravated in one glioblastoma line the TTFields effects suggesting that Cav1.2-triggered signaling contributes to cellular TTFields stress response. In conclusion, the present study identified Cav1.2 channels as TTFields target in the plasma membrane and provides the rationale to combine TTFields therapy with Ca2+ antagonists that are already in clinical use.
Zn-Co@N-Doped Carbon Derived from ZIFs for High-Efficiency Synthesis of Ethyl Methyl Carbonate: The Formation of ZnO and the Interaction between Co and Zn
Authors: Miao Ya-Nan , Wang Yuan , Pan Dong-Hui , Song Xiang-Hai , Xu Si-Quan , Gao Li-Jing , Xiao Guo-Min
Published: January 2019

In this work, a series of Zn-Co@N-doped carbon materials were prepared by pyrolysis of Co/Zn-ZIF precursors under a N2 atmosphere and used for high-efficiency synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC) from dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and diethyl carbonate (DEC). The Co to Zn molar ratio and calcination temperature were varied to study the physical and chemical properties of Zn-Co@N-doped carbon materials identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) analysis. It was deduced that the formation of a ZnO crystalline structure and the interaction between zinc and cobalt providing weak basic sites and strong basic sites, respectively, in different samples significantly affected their catalytic performance. The catalyst activated the reaction most effectively when the Co to Zn molar ratio was 1.0 and calcination temperature was 600 °C. With the DMC to DEC molar ratio controlled at 1:1, a superior yield of around 51.50% of product EMC can be gained over catalyst ZnCo/NC-600 at 100 °C with 1 wt% catalyst loading in 7 h.
Improving Productivity of Multiphase Flow Aerobic Oxidation Using a Tube-in-Tube Membrane Contactor
Authors: Burkholder Michael , Gilliland Stanley E. , Luxon Adam , Tang Christina , Gupton B. Frank
Published: January 2019

The application of flow reactors in multiphase catalytic reactions represents a promising approach for enhancing the efficiency of this important class of chemical reactions. We developed a simple approach to improve the reactor productivity of multiphase catalytic reactions performed using a flow chemistry unit with a packed bed reactor. Specifically, a tube-in-tube membrane contactor (sparger) integrated in-line with the flow reactor has been successfully applied to the aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde utilizing a heterogeneous palladium catalyst in the packed bed. We examined the effect of sparger hydrodynamics on reactor productivity quantified by space time yield (STY). Implementation of the sparger, versus segmented flow achieved with the built in gas dosing module (1) increased reactor productivity 4-fold quantified by space time yield while maintaining high selectivity and (2) improved process safety as demonstrated by lower effective operating pressures.
Effect of Mono-, Di-, and Triethylene Glycol on the Activity of Phosphate-Doped NiMo/Al2O3 Hydrotreating Catalysts
Authors: Nuzhdin Alexey L. , Bukhtiyarova Galina A. , Porsin Aleksander A. , Prosvirin Igor P. , Deliy Irina V. , Volodin Vladimir A. , Gerasimov Evgeny Yu. , Vlasova Evgeniya N. , Bukhtiyarov Valerii I.
Published: January 2019

The effect of glycols on the catalytic properties of phosphate-doped NiMo/Al2O3 catalysts in the hydrotreating of straight-run gas oil (SRGO) was studied. The NiMo(P)/Al2O3 catalysts were prepared using ethylene glycol (EG), diethylene glycol (DEG), and triethylene glycol (TEG) as additives. The organic agent was introduced into the aqueous impregnation solution obtained by the dissolving of MoO3 in H3PO4 solution, followed by Ni(OH)2 addition. The Raman and UV–Vis studies show that the impregnation solution contains diphosphopentamolybdate HxP2Mo5O23(6−x)− and Ni(H2O)62+, and that these ions are not affected by the presence of glycols. When the impregnation solution comes in contact with the γ-Al2O3 surface, HxP2Mo5O23(6−x)− is decomposed completely. The catalysts were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, low-temperature N2 adsorption, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. It is shown that the sulfide catalysts prepared with glycols display higher activity in the hydrotreating of straight-run gas oil than the NiMoP/Al2O3 catalyst prepared without the additive. The hydrodesulfurization and hydrodenitrogenation activities depend on the glycol type and are decreased in the following order: NiMoP-DEG/Al2O3 > NiMoP-EG/Al2O3 > NiMoP-TEG/Al2O3 > NiMoP/Al2O3. The higher activity of NiMoP-DEG/Al2O3 can be explained with the higher dispersion of molybdenum on the surface of the catalyst in the sulfide state.
High-Efficiency Catalytic Conversion of NOx by the Synergy of Nanocatalyst and Plasma: Effect of Mn-Based Bimetallic Active Species
Authors: Gao Yan , Jiang Wenchao , Luan Tao , Li Hui , Zhang Wenke , Feng Wenchen , Jiang Haolin
Published: January 2019

Three typical Mn-based bimetallic nanocatalysts of Mn−Fe/TiO2, Mn−Co/TiO2, Mn−Ce/TiO2 were synthesized via the hydrothermal method to reveal the synergistic effects of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma and bimetallic nanocatalysts on NOx catalytic conversion. The plasma-catalyst hybrid catalysis was investigated compared with the catalytic effects of plasma alone and nanocatalyst alone. During the catalytic process of catalyst alone, the catalytic activities of all tested catalysts were lower than 20% at ambient temperature. While in the plasma-catalyst hybrid catalytic process, NOx conversion significantly improved with discharge energy enlarging. The maximum NOx conversion of about 99.5% achieved over Mn−Ce/TiO2 under discharge energy of 15 W·h/m3 at ambient temperature. The reaction temperature had an inhibiting effect on plasma-catalyst hybrid catalysis. Among these three Mn-based bimetallic nanocatalysts, Mn−Ce/TiO2 displayed the optimal catalytic property with higher catalytic activity and superior selectivity in the plasma-catalyst hybrid catalytic process. Furthermore, the physicochemical properties of these three typical Mn-based bimetallic nanocatalysts were analyzed by N2 adsorption, Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), H2-temperature-programmed reduction (TPR), NH3-temperature-programmed desorption (TPD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The multiple characterizations demonstrated that the plasma-catalyst hybrid catalytic performance was highly dependent on the phase compositions. Mn−Ce/TiO2 nanocatalyst presented the optimal structure characteristic among all tested samples, with the largest surface area, the minished particle sizes, the reduced crystallinity, and the increased active components distributions. In the meantime, the ratios of Mn4+/(Mn2+ + Mn3+ + Mn4+) in the Mn−Ce/TiO2 sample was the highest, which was beneficial to plasma-catalyst hybrid catalysis. Generally, it was verified that the plasma-catalyst hybrid catalytic process with the Mn-based bimetallic nanocatalysts was an effective approach for high-efficiency catalytic conversion of NOx, especially at ambient temperature.
New Insights into the Interplay between Non-Coding RNAs and RNA-Binding Protein HnRNPK in Regulating Cellular Functions
Authors: Xu Yongjie , Wu Wei , Han Qiu , Wang Yaling , Li Cencen , Zhang Pengpeng , Xu Haixia
Published: January 2019

The emerging data indicates that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) epresent more than the “junk sequences” of the genome. Both miRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in fundamental biological processes, and their deregulation may lead to oncogenesis and other diseases. As an important RNA-binding protein (RBP), heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) is known to regulate gene expression through the RNA-binding domain involved in various pathways, such as transcription, splicing, and translation. HnRNPK is a highly conserved gene that is abundantly expressed in mammalian cells. The interaction of hnRNPK and ncRNAs defines the novel way through which ncRNAs affect the expression of protein-coding genes and form autoregulatory feedback loops. This review summarizes the interactions of hnRNPK and ncRNAs in regulating gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels or by changing the genomic structure, highlighting their involvement in carcinogenesis, glucose metabolism, stem cell differentiation, virus infection and other cellular functions. Drawing connections between such discoveries might provide novel targets to control the biological outputs of cells in response to different stimuli.
Carnosine Prevents Aβ-Induced Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Microglial Cells: A Key Role of TGF-β1
Authors: Caruso Giuseppe , Fresta Claudia , Musso Nicolò , Giambirtone Mariaconcetta , Grasso Margherita , Spampinato Simona , Merlo Sara , Drago Filippo , Lazzarino Giuseppe , Sortino Maria , Lunte Susan , Caraci Filippo
Published: January 2019

Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine), a dipeptide, is an endogenous antioxidant widely distributed in excitable tissues like muscles and the brain. Carnosine is involved in cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress, including the inhibition of amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation and the scavenging of reactive species. Microglia play a central role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease, promoting neuroinflammation through the secretion of inflammatory mediators and free radicals. However, the effects of carnosine on microglial cells and neuroinflammation are not well understood. In the present work, carnosine was tested for its ability to protect BV-2 microglial cells against oligomeric Aβ1-42-induced oxidative stress and inflammation. Carnosine prevented cell death in BV-2 cells challenged with Aβ oligomers through multiple mechanisms. Specifically, carnosine lowered the oxidative stress by decreasing NO and O2−• intracellular levels as well as the expression of iNOS and Nox enzymes. Carnosine also decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, simultaneously rescuing IL-10 levels and increasing the expression and the release of TGF-β1. Carnosine also prevented Aβ-induced neurodegeneration in mixed neuronal cultures challenged with Aβ oligomers, and these neuroprotective effects were completely abolished by SB431542, a selective inhibitor of the type-1 TGF-β receptor. Our data suggest a multimodal mechanism of action of carnosine underlying its protective effects on microglial cells against Aβ toxicity with a key role of TGF-β1 in mediating these protective effects.
Retinal Neuron Is More Sensitive to Blue Light-Induced Damage than Glia Cell Due to DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Chen Pei , Lai Zhipeng , Wu Yihui , Xu Lijun , Cai Xiaoxiao , Qiu Jin , Yang Panyang , Yang Meng , Zhou Pan , Zhuang Jiejie , Ge Jian , Yu Keming , Zhuang Jing
Published: January 2019

Blue light is a major component of visible light and digital displays. Over-exposure to blue light could cause retinal damage. However, the mechanism of its damage is not well defined. Here, we demonstrate that blue light (900 lux) impairs cell viability and induces cell apoptosis in retinal neurocytes in vitro. A DNA electrophoresis assay shows severe DNA damage in retinal neurocytes at 2 h after blue light treatment. γ-H2AX foci, a specific marker of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), is mainly located in the Map2-posotive neuron other than the glia cell. After assaying the expression level of proteins related to DNA repair, Mre11, Ligase IV and Ku80, we find that Ku80 is up-regulated in retinal neurocytes after blue light treatment. Interestingly, Ku80 is mainly expressed in glia fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive glia cells. Moreover, following blue light exposure in vivo, DNA DSBs are shown in the ganglion cell layer and only observed in Map2-positive cells. Furthermore, long-term blue light exposure significantly thinned the retina in vivo. Our findings demonstrate that blue light induces DNA DSBs in retinal neurons, and the damage is more pronounced compared to glia cells. Thus, this study provides new insights into the mechanisms of the effect of blue light on the retina.
Green Prescriptions and Their Co-Benefits: Integrative Strategies for Public and Environmental Health
Authors: Robinson Jake M. , Breed Martin F.
Published: January 2019

There is a growing recognition of the links between the increasing prevalence of noncommunicable diseases, environmental concerns including biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation, and socioecological issues such as ecological (in)justice. This has encouraged a number of recent calls for the development of integrative approaches aimed at addressing these issues—also known as nature-based solutions. An example of an emerging nature-based solution is a ‘green prescription’, broadly defined as a nature-based health intervention. Green prescriptions are typically designed for patients with a defined need and they have the potential to supplement orthodox medical treatments, particularly those aimed at addressing noncommunicable diseases. It is also thought that green prescriptions could bring about significant environmental, economic, and social co-benefits. However, researchers have recently expressed concerns over taking the ‘dose of nature’ approach, in that it may be too reductionistic for the complex social settings in which it is provided. Here we frame a holistic philosophical perspective and discuss green prescribing logic, types, mechanisms and fundamental remaining questions and challenges. We place a significant emphasis on the potential co-benefits of green prescriptions, and the importance of taking a planetary health approach. More research is needed to determine how this potential can be realised, and to further understand the complexities of the nature–human health relationship. However, with additional research and support, there is huge potential for green prescriptions to contribute to both reactive (health care) and proactive (health promoting) public health solutions whilst enhancing the natural environment.
Structure, Mechanical and Optical Properties of Silicon-Rich Al–Si–N Films Prepared by High Power Impulse Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Zenkin Sergei , Konusov Fedor , Lauk Aleksandr , Zelentsov Denis , Demchenko Stanislav
Published: January 2019

This article reports on the influence of the sputtering parameters (discharge voltage, average target power density) of a high power impulse magnetron discharge (HiPIMS) on the structure, mechanical and optical properties of silicon-rich Al–Si–N films. We show that with the change of a discharge target power density in the range of 30–120 W/cm2, the hardness of the sputtered Al–Si–N films nonlinearly changes in the range of 22–29 GPa, while the concentration of the absorption centers changes in the range of 1018–1020/cm3. The optical spectra of the HiPIMS sputtered films are completely different from the Al–Si–N films prepared by a direct current magnetron sputtering, with an absence of “monoenergetic” optical absorption centers, which are attributed to point defects.
Pulsed Laser Deposited Biocompatible Lithium-Doped Hydroxyapatite Coatings with Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Duta Liviu , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Bleotu Coralia , Gradisteanu Gratiela (Pircalabioru) , Anastasescu Mihai , Achim Alexandru , Popescu Andrei
Published: January 2019

Simple and lithium-doped biological-origin hydroxyapatite layers were synthesized by Pulsed Laser Deposition technique on medical grade Ti substrates. Cytotoxic effects of lithium addition and the biocompatibility of obtained coatings were assessed using three cell lines of human origin (new initiated dermal fibroblasts, immortalized keratinocytes HaCaT, and MG-63 osteosarcoma). Antimicrobial properties of obtained coatings were assessed on two strains (i.e., Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans), belonging to species representative for the etiology of medical devices biofilm-associated infections. Our findings suggest that synthesized lithium-doped coatings exhibited low cytotoxicity on human osteosarcoma and skin cells and therefore, an excellent biocompatibility, correlated with a long-lasting anti-staphylococcal and -fungal biofilm activity. Along with low fabrication costs generated by sustainable resources, these biological-derived materials demonstrate their promising potential for future prospective solutions—viable alternatives to commercially available biomimetic HA implants—for the fabrication of a new generation of implant coatings.
Modification of Structure and Magnetic Properties in Coordination Assemblies Based on [Cu(cyclam)]2+ and [W(CN)8]3−
Authors: Pacanowska Aleksandra , Reczyński Mateusz , Nowicka Beata
Published: January 2019

The 1D {[CuII(cyclam)]3[WV(CN)8]2.5H2O}n (1·5H2O) (cyclam = 1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane) coordination polymer of ladder topology can be obtained in water-alcohol solution from [Cu(cyclam)]2+ and [W(CN)8]3− building blocks. Upon dehydration, 1·5H2O undergoes a single-crystal-to-single-crystal structural transformation to the anhydrous {[CuII(cyclam)]3[WV(CN)8]2}n (1) form, which retains the same topology, but is characterized by shorter Cu-W distances and significantly more bent CN-bridges. The deformation of the coordination skeleton is reflected in magnetic properties: the predominant intra-chain interactions change from ferromagnetic in 1·5H2O to antiferromagnetic in 1. The reaction between the same building blocks in water solution under slow diffusion conditions leads to the formation of a 0D {[CuII(cyclam)(H2O)]2[CuII(cyclam)][WV(CN)8]2}.3H2O pentanuclear assembly (2·3H2O).
First-Principles Assessment of the Structure and Stability of 15 Intrinsic Point Defects in Zinc-Blende Indium Arsenide
Authors: Peng Qing , Chen Nanjun , Huang Danhong , Heller Eric R. , Cardimona David A. , Gao Fei
Published: January 2019

Point defects are inevitable, at least due to thermodynamics, and essential for engineering semiconductors. Herein, we investigate the formation and electronic structures of fifteen different kinds of intrinsic point defects of zinc blende indium arsenide (zb-InAs ) using first-principles calculations. For As-rich environment, substitutional point defects are the primary intrinsic point defects in zb-InAs until the n-type doping region with Fermi level above 0.32 eV is reached, where the dominant intrinsic point defects are changed to In vacancies. For In-rich environment, In tetrahedral interstitial has the lowest formation energy till n-type doped region with Fermi level 0.24 eV where substitutional point defects In A s take over. The dumbbell interstitials prefer < 110 > configurations. For tetrahedral interstitials, In atoms prefer 4-As tetrahedral site for both As-rich and In-rich environments until the Fermi level goes above 0.26 eV in n-type doped region, where In atoms acquire the same formation energy at both tetrahedral sites and the same charge state. This implies a fast diffusion along the t − T − t path among the tetrahedral sites for In atoms. The In vacancies V I n decrease quickly and monotonically with increasing Fermi level and has a q = − 3 e charge state at the same time. The most popular vacancy-type defect is V I n in an As-rich environment, but switches to V A s in an In-rich environment at light p-doped region when Fermi level below 0.2 eV. This study sheds light on the relative stabilities of these intrinsic point defects, their concentrations and possible diffusions, which is expected useful in defect-engineering zb-InAs based semiconductors, as well as the material design for radiation-tolerant electronics.