bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Model-Based Design and Evaluation of a Brachiating Monkey Robot with an Active Waist
Authors: Lo Alex , Yang Yu-Huan , Lin Tsen-Chang , Chu Chen-Wen , Lin Pei-Chun
Published: September 2017

We report on the model-based development of a monkey robot that is capable of performing continuous brachiation locomotion on swingable rod, as the intermediate step toward studying brachiation on the soft rope or on horizontal ropes with both ends fixed. The work is different from other previous works where the model or the robot swings on fixed bars. The model, which is composed of two rigid links, was inspired by the dynamic motion of primates. The model further served as the design guideline for a robot that has five degree of freedoms: two on each arm for rod changing and one on the waist to initiate a swing motion. The model was quantitatively formulated, and its dynamic behavior was analyzed in simulation. Further, a two-stage controller was developed within the simulation environment, where the first stage used the natural dynamics of a two-link pendulum-like model, and the second stage used the angular velocity feedback to regulate the waist motion. Finally, the robot was empirically built and evaluated. The experimental results confirm that the robot can perform model-like swing behavior and continuous brachiation locomotion on rods.
Validation of MODIS-Aqua Aerosol Products C051 and C006 over the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Region
Authors: Wang Ke , Sun Xuejin , Zhou Yongbo , Zhang Chuanliang
Published: September 2017

The recently released MODerate resolution Imaging Spectroradiometers (MODIS) Collection 6(C006) includes several significant improvements, which are expected to do well in analyzing aerosols and using the observations for air pollution application. The C006 Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) retrievals should be validated completely before they will be applied to specific research. However, the validation of C006 AOD retrievals at a regional scale is limited. Therefore, this study evaluated the performance of the MODIS-Aqua Collection 51 (C051) and C006 AOD retrievals over the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region in China from 2006 to 2015 using ground-based Sun photometers. The algorithms of the AOD product include Dark Target (DT) and Deep Blue (DB). The results indicated that the improvements in DT C006 were slight, as the expected error (EE) increased by almost 9% over the two sites, and the DT C051 and DT C006 AOD were overestimated for both sites. DB C006 presented an improvement over DB C051, and a better correlation was observed between the collocated DB C006 retrievals and Sun photometer data (R ranged from 0.9343–0.9383). There was an increase in the frequency from DT C051 to DT C006, in the range 0.6–1.5, over the two sites; moreover, the AOD from the DB retrievals had a very narrow range (0.1–0.3). The spatial distribution of the AOD values was high (AOD > 0.7) over the southeastern region and low (AOD < 0.3) over the northwestern region. Changes in the DT C006 algorithm resulted in an increased AOD (0.085) for the region. The AOD values in spring and summer were higher than those in fall and winter. By subtracting the C051 AOD from the corresponding C006 values, greater positive changes (~0.2) were found in the southeastern areas during summer, presumably as the updated cloud-masking allowed heavy smoke retrievals. The accuracy of the AOD retrievals depended on the assumptions of surface reflectance and the selection of the aerosol model. The use of the DB C006 algorithm is recommended for the Beijing and Xianghe sites. Because of the limitations of the DT algorithm over sparsely vegetated surfaces, the DT C006 product is recommended for Xianghe.
C14 Laves Phase Metal Hydride Alloys for Ni/MH Batteries Applications
Authors: Young Kwo-Hsiung , Chang Shiuan , Lin Xinting
Published: September 2017

C14 Laves phase alloys play a significant role in improving the performance of nickel/metal hydride batteries, which currently dominate the 1.2 V consumer-type rechargeable battery market and those for hybrid electric vehicles. In the current study, the properties of C14 Laves phase based metal hydride alloys are reviewed in relation to their electrochemical applications. Various preparation methods and failure mechanisms of the C14 Laves phase based metal hydride alloys, and the influence of all elements on the electrochemical performance, are discussed. The contributions of some commonly used constituting elements are compared to performance requirements. The importance of stoichiometry and its impact on electrochemical properties is also included. At the end, a discussion section addresses historical hurdles, previous trials, and future directions for implementing C14 Laves phase based metal hydride alloys in commercial nickel/metal hydride batteries.
Catalytic Characteristics of New Antibacterials Based on Hexahistidine-Containing Organophosphorus Hydrolase
Authors: Maslova Olga , Aslanli Aysel , Stepanov Nikolay , Lyagin Ilya , Efremenko Elena
Published: September 2017

Catalytic characteristics of hexahistidine-containing organophosphorus hydrolase (His6-OPH) and its enzyme-polyelectrolyte complexes with poly-l-glutamic acid or poly-l-aspartic acid (His6-OPH/PLD50), hydrolyzing organophosphorous compounds, and N-acyl homoserine lactones were studied in the presence of various antibiotics (ampicillin, gentamicin, kanamycin, and rifampicin). The antibiotics at concentrations below 1 g·L−1 had a negligible inhibiting effect on the His6-OPH activity. Mixed inhibition of His6-OPH was established for higher antibiotic concentrations, and rifampicin was the most potent inhibitor. Stabilization of the His6-OPH activity was observed in the presence of antibiotics at a concentration of 0.2 g·L−1 during exposure at 25–41 °C. Molecular docking of antibiotics to the surface of His6-OPH dimer revealed the antibiotics binding both to the area near active centers of the enzyme subunits and to the region of contact between subunits of the dimer. Such interactions between antibiotics and His6-OPH were verified with Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Considering all the results of the study, the combination of His6-OPH/PLD50 with β-lactam antibiotic ampicillin was established as the optimal one in terms of exhibition and persistence of maximal lactonase activity of the enzyme.
Log Likelihood Spectral Distance, Entropy Rate Power, and Mutual Information with Applications to Speech Coding
Authors: Gibson Jerry , Mahadevan Preethi
Published: September 2017

We provide a new derivation of the log likelihood spectral distance measure for signal processing using the logarithm of the ratio of entropy rate powers. Using this interpretation, we show that the log likelihood ratio is equivalent to the difference of two differential entropies, and further that it can be written as the difference of two mutual informations. These latter two expressions allow the analysis of signals via the log likelihood ratio to be extended beyond spectral matching to the study of their statistical quantities of differential entropy and mutual information. Examples from speech coding are presented to illustrate the utility of these new results. These new expressions allow the log likelihood ratio to be of interest in applications beyond those of just spectral matching for speech.
Water Oxygen Content Affects Distribution of T and B Lymphocytes in Lymphoid Tissues of Farmed Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus Labrax)
Authors: Romano Nicla , Scapigliati Giuseppe , Abelli Luigi
Published: September 2017

Intensive aquaculture systems have stimulated proper management in order to limit stressful stocking conditions and environmental impact. This should improve fish wellness and counteract adverse water characteristics such as high concentrations of carbon. The oxygen can be considered a key factor since critical conditions leading to chronic rise of blood catecholamines can depress the number and Oxygen-carrying capacity of erythrocytes. In this research, we evaluated the effects of variation in water oxygen (from 6 ± 1 to 13 ± 1 mg/L) on lymphocytes density in sea bass by using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. Gut, gill, and thymus T-cells were significantly enhanced in percentage in hyperoxygenated fish compared with normo-oxygenated group, while Peripheral Blood Leukocytes (PBL), head kidney, and spleen T-cells were not significantly different. Contrarily, in PBL, head kidney and spleen hyper-oxygenation treatment provoked an enhancement of B lymphocyte percentages. The distribution of positive T-cells in hyper-oxygenated fish varied in the organs and followed the relative increments/decrements observed in flow cytometry. This study remarks the sensitivity of sea bass adaptive immunocytes to oxygen concentration, evidenced by the modification of parameters. Sea bass culture under high-flow water recycling and at around 12–13 mg/L oxygen concentrations is therefore suggested to enhance the immune response capacity.
Comment on: Maternal Exposure to Domestic Hair Cosmetics and Occupational Endocrine Disruptors Is Associated with a Higher Risk of Hypospadias in the Offspring. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2017, 14, 27
Authors: Elwood Mark , O’Brien Dillon , Budgen Katie-Anne
Published: September 2017

There are considerable inconsistencies in the results of Haraux et al. [1].[...]
Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Response to Chromium (VI) Toxicity in Human Liver Cells
Authors: Zhong Xiali , De Cássia da Silveira e Sá Rita , Zhong Caigao
Published: September 2017

Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, which poses a threat to human public health. Recent studies have shown that mitochondrial biogenesis can be activated by inflammatory and oxidative stress. However, whether mitochondrial biogenesis is involved in Cr(VI)-induced hepatotoxicity is unclear. Here, we demonstrated the induction of inflammatory response and oxidative stress, as indicated by upregulation of inflammatory factors and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Subsequently, we demonstrated that mitochondrial biogenesis, comprising the mitochondrial DNA copy number and mitochondrial mass, was significantly increased in HepG2 cells exposed to low concentrations of Cr(VI). Expression of genes related to mitochondrial function complex I and complex V was upregulated at low concentrations of Cr(VI). mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 (SOD1 and SOD2, respectively), kech like ECH associate protein 1 (KEAP1) and nuclear respiratory factor 2 (NRF-2), were also upregulated. Consistent with the above results, mRNA and protein levels of key transcriptional regulators of mitochondrial biogenesis such as the peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), NRF-1 and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) were increased by low concentrations of Cr(VI) in HepG2 cells. Moreover, we found that PGC-1α and NRF-1 tended to translocate into the nucleus. The expression of genes potentially involved in mitochondrial biogenesis pathways, including mRNA level of silent information regulator-1 (SIRT1), forkhead box class-O (FOXO1), threonine kinase 1 (AKT1), and cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB1), was also upregulated. In contrast, mitochondrial biogenesis was inhibited and the expression of its regulatory factors and antioxidants was downregulated at high and cytotoxic concentrations of Cr(VI) in HepG2 cells. It is believed that pretreatment with α-tocopherol could be acting against the mitochondrial biogenesis imbalance induced by Cr(VI). In conclusion, our study suggests that the homeostasis of mitochondrial biogenesis may be an important cellular compensatory mechanism against Cr(VI)-induced toxicity and a promising detoxification target.
Low-Temperature Self-Healing of a Microcapsule-Type Protective Coating
Authors: Kim Dong-Min , Cho Yu-Jin , Choi Ju-Young , Kim Beom-Jun , Jin Seung-Won , Chung Chan-Moon
Published: September 2017

Low-temperature self-healing capabilities are essential for self-healing materials exposed to cold environments. Although low-temperature self-healing concepts have been proposed, there has been no report of a microcapsule-type low-temperature self-healing system wherein the healing ability was demonstrated at low temperature. In this work, low-temperature self-healing of a microcapsule-type protective coating was demonstrated. This system employed silanol-terminated polydimethylsiloxane (STP) as a healing agent and dibutyltin dilaurate (DD) as a catalyst. STP underwent a condensation reaction at −20 °C in the presence of DD to give a viscoelastic product. The reaction behavior of STP and the viscoelasticity of the reaction product were investigated. STP and DD were separately microencapsulated by in situ polymerization and interfacial polymerization methods, respectively. The STP- and DD-loaded microcapsules were mixed into a commercial enamel paint, and the resulting formulation was applied to glass slides, steel panels, and mortars to prepare self-healing coatings. When the self-healing coatings were damaged at a low temperature (−20 °C), STP and DD were released from broken microcapsules and filled the damaged area. This process was effectively visualized using a fluorescent dye. The self-healing coatings were scratched and subjected to corrosion tests, electrochemical tests, and saline solution permeability tests. The temperature of the self-healing coatings was maintained at −20 °C before and after scratching and during the tests. We successfully demonstrated that the STP/DD-based coating system has good low-temperature self-healing capability.
The Role of Controlled Surface Topography and Chemistry on Mouse Embryonic Stem Cell Attachment, Growth and Self-Renewal
Authors: Macgregor Melanie , Williams Rachel , Downes Joni , Bachhuka Akash , Vasilev Krasimir
Published: September 2017

The success of stem cell therapies relies heavily on our ability to control their fate in vitro during expansion to ensure an appropriate supply. The biophysical properties of the cell culture environment have been recognised as a potent stimuli influencing cellular behaviour. In this work we used advanced plasma-based techniques to generate model culture substrates with controlled nanotopographical features of 16 nm, 38 nm and 68 nm in magnitude, and three differently tailored surface chemical functionalities. The effect of these two surface properties on the adhesion, spreading, and self-renewal of mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) were assessed. The results demonstrated that physical and chemical cues influenced the behaviour of these stem cells in in vitro culture in different ways. The size of the nanotopographical features impacted on the cell adhesion, spreading and proliferation, while the chemistry influenced the cell self-renewal and differentiation.
Bonding Behavior of Deformed Steel Rebars in Sustainable Concrete Containing both Fine and Coarse Recycled Aggregates
Authors: Kim Sun-Woo , Park Wan-Shin , Jang Young-Il , Jang Seok-Joon , Yun Hyun-Do
Published: September 2017

In order to assess the bond behavior of deformed steel rebars in recycled-aggregate concrete (RAC) incorporating both fine and coarse recycled aggregate, pull-out tests were carried out in this study on 16-mm diameter deformed steel rebars embedded concentrically in RAC. The concrete was designed using equivalently mixed proportions of both recycled coarse aggregate and recycled fine aggregate. The tests employed five types of recycled aggregate replacement combinations and three types of rebar placement orientation (i.e., vertical bars and two-tiered and three-tiered horizontal bars). Based on the pull-out test results, the maximum bond strength tended to decrease and the slip at the maximum bond strength increased as the average water absorption of the aggregate increased, irrespective of the rebar orientation or placement location within the concrete member. The pull-out test results for the horizontal steel rebars embedded in RAC indicate that the casting position effect could be determined from the mid-depth of the concrete member, irrespective of the member’s height. The normalized bond versus slip relationship between the deformed rebar and the RAC could be predicted using an empirical model based on regression analysis of the experimental data.
Shape Memory Polyurethane Materials Containing Ferromagnetic Iron Oxide and Graphene Nanoplatelets
Authors: Urban Magdalena , Strankowski Michał
Published: September 2017

Intelligent materials, such as memory shape polymers, have attracted considerable attention due to wide range of possible applications. Currently, intensive research is underway, in matters of obtaining memory shape materials that can be actuated via inductive methods, for example with help of magnetic field. In this work, an attempt was made to develop a new polymer composite—polyurethane modified with graphene nanoplates and ferromagnetic iron oxides—with improved mechanical properties and introduced magnetic and memory shape properties. Based on the conducted literature review, gathered data were compared to the results of similar materials. Obtained materials were tested for their thermal, rheological, mechanical and shape memory properties. Structure of both fillers and composites were also analyzed using various spectroscopic methods. The addition of fillers to the polyurethane matrix improved the mechanical and shape memory properties, without having a noticeable impact on thermal properties. As it was expected, the high content of fillers caused a significant change in viscosity of filled prepolymers (during the synthesis stage). Each of the studied composites showed better mechanical properties than the unmodified polyurethanes. The addition of magnetic particles introduced additional properties to the composite, which could significantly expand the functionality of the materials developed in this work.
Isothermal Austenite–Ferrite Phase Transformations and Microstructural Evolution during Annealing in Super Duplex Stainless Steels
Authors: Ciuffini Andrea , Barella Silvia , Di Cecca Cosmo , Gruttadauria Andrea , Mapelli Carlo , Mombelli Davide
Published: September 2017

Super Duplex Stainless Steels (SDSSs) are composed of α-ferrite and γ-austenite grains, the simultaneous presence of which forms an optimal microstructure to achieve the best combination of mechanical and corrosion resistance properties. Moreover, international quality standards are strict about the phase fraction ratio. The purpose of this work is the achievement of a better description of the phase ratio evolution taking place during annealing at 1080 °C in the super duplex stainless steels F53–S32750 and F55–S32760. The experimental results show a damped sinusoidal trend in the α/γ phase ratio evolution with the increase of the soaking time of thermal treatment. This can be described by coupling both the competitive coarsening growth regime and the concept of the local equilibrium phase transformations, pointing out a good correspondence with the experimental data. Further, recrystallization phenomena also play a major role. Finally, the additivity character of the observed processes has been proven.
Simulation, Fabrication and Analysis of Silver Based Ascending Sinusoidal Microchannel (ASMC) for Implant of Varicose Veins
Authors: Afzal Muhammad , Tayyaba Shahzadi , Ashraf Muhammad , Hossain M. , Uddin M. , Afzulpurkar Nitin
Published: September 2017

Bioengineered veins can benefit humans needing bypass surgery, dialysis, and now, in the treatment of varicose veins. The implant of this vein in varicose veins has significant advantages over the conventional treatment methods. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), vein patch repair, pulmonary embolus, and tissue-damaging problems can be solved with this implant. Here, the authors have proposed biomedical microdevices as an alternative for varicose veins. MATLAB and ANSYS Fluent have been used for simulations of blood flow for bioengineered veins. The silver based microchannel has been fabricated by using a micromachining process. The dimensions of the silver substrates are 51 mm, 25 mm, and 1.1 mm, in length, width, and depth respectively. The dimensions of microchannels grooved in the substrates are 0.9 mm in width and depth. The boundary conditions for pressure and velocity were considered, from 1.0 kPa to 1.50 kPa, and 0.02 m/s to 0.07 m/s, respectively. These are the actual values of pressure and velocity in varicose veins. The flow rate of 5.843 (0.1 nL/s) and velocity of 5.843 cm/s were determined at Reynolds number 164.88 in experimental testing. The graphs and results from simulations and experiments are in close agreement. These microchannels can be inserted into varicose veins as a replacement to maintain the excellent blood flow in human legs.
Understanding of MYB Transcription Factors Involved in Glucosinolate Biosynthesis in Brassicaceae
Authors: Seo Mi-Suk , Kim Jung
Published: September 2017

Glucosinolates (GSLs) are widely known secondary metabolites that have anticarcinogenic and antioxidative activities in humans and defense roles in plants of the Brassicaceae family. Some R2R3-type MYB (myeloblastosis) transcription factors (TFs) control GSL biosynthesis in Arabidopsis. However, studies on the MYB TFs involved in GSL biosynthesis in Brassica species are limited because of the complexity of the genome, which includes an increased number of paralog genes as a result of genome duplication. The recent completion of the genome sequencing of the Brassica species permits the identification of MYB TFs involved in GSL biosynthesis by comparative genome analysis with A. thaliana. In this review, we describe various findings on the regulation of GSL biosynthesis in Brassicaceae. Furthermore, we identify 63 orthologous copies corresponding to five MYB TFs from Arabidopsis, except MYB76 in Brassica species. Fifty-five MYB TFs from the Brassica species possess a conserved amino acid sequence in their R2R3 MYB DNA-binding domain, and share close evolutionary relationships. Our analysis will provide useful information on the 55 MYB TFs involved in the regulation of GSL biosynthesis in Brassica species, which have a polyploid genome.
Radish (Raphanus sativus) and Diabetes
Authors: Banihani Saleem
Published: September 2017

For more than three decades, various in vitro and in vivo studies have linked radishes with diabetes, though this link has not been discussed. This review systematically addresses and summarizes the effect of radishes on diabetes. We searched the Web of Science, PubMed, and EMBASE databases for English language articles from June 1987 through May 2017 using the key words “radish” and “diabetes,” and the references from particular reports were also considered if relevant. In summary, radish has been identified as having antidiabetic effects, making it favorable for those with diabetic conditions. This may be due to its ability to enhance the antioxidant defense mechanism and reduce the accumulation of free radicals, affect hormonal-induced glucose hemostasis, promote glucose uptake and energy metabolism, and reduce glucose absorption in the intestine. However, this summary requires further confirmation in research in vivo studies and clinical trials.
Effects of β-Glucans Ingestion on Alveolar Bone Loss, Intestinal Morphology, Systemic Inflammatory Profile, and Pancreatic β-Cell Function in Rats with Periodontitis and Diabetes
Authors: De O. Silva Viviam , Lobato Raquel , Andrade Eric , Orlando Débora , Borges Bruno , Zangeronimo Márcio , De Sousa Raimundo , Pereira Luciano
Published: September 2017

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of β-glucan ingestion (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) on the plasmatic levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10), alveolar bone loss, and pancreatic β-cell function (HOMA-BF) in diabetic rats with periodontal disease (PD). Besides, intestinal morphology was determined by the villus/crypt ratio. A total of 48 Wistar rats weighing 203 ± 18 g were used. Diabetes was induced by the intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (80 mg/kg) and periodontal inflammation, by ligature. The design was completely randomized in a factorial scheme 2 × 2 × 2 (diabetic or not, with or without periodontitis, and ingesting β-glucan or not). The animals received β-glucan by gavage for 28 days. Alveolar bone loss was determined by scanning electron microscopy (distance between the cementoenamel junction and alveolar bone crest) and histometric analysis (bone area between tooth roots). β-glucan reduced plasmatic levels of TNF-α in diabetic animals with PD and of IL-10 in animals with PD (p < 0.05). β-glucan reduced bone loss in animals with PD (p < 0.05). In diabetic animals, β-glucan improved β-cell function (p < 0.05). Diabetic animals had a higher villus/crypt ratio (p < 0.05). In conclusion, β-glucan ingestion reduced the systemic inflammatory profile, prevented alveolar bone loss, and improved β-cell function in diabetic animals with PD.
Inhibition of Adherence of Mycobacterium avium to Plumbing Surface Biofilms of Methylobacterium spp.
Authors: Muñoz Egea Mari , Ji Pan , Pruden Amy , Falkinham III Joseph
Published: September 2017

Both Mycobacterium spp. and Methylobacterium spp. are opportunistic premise plumbing pathogens that are found on pipe surfaces in households. However, examination of data published in prior microbiological surveys indicates that Methylobacterium spp. and Mycobacterium spp. tend not to coexist in the same household plumbing biofilms. That evidence led us to test the hypothesis that Methylobacterium spp. in biofilms could inhibit the adherence of Mycobacterium avium. Measurements of adherence of M. avium cells to stainless steel coupons using both culture and PCR-based methods showed that the presence of Methylobacterium spp. biofilms substantially reduced M. avium adherence and vice versa. That inhibition of M. avium adherence was not reduced by UV-irradiation, cyanide/azide exposure, or autoclaving of the Methylobacterium spp. biofilms. Further, there was no evidence of the production of anti-mycobacterial compounds by biofilm-grown Methylobacterium spp. cells. The results add to understanding of the role of microbial interactions in biofilms as a driving force in the proliferation or inhibition of opportunistic pathogens in premise plumbing, and provide a potential new avenue by which M. avium exposures may be reduced for at-risk individuals.
Imidazolium Ionic Liquid Modified Graphene Oxide: As a Reinforcing Filler and Catalyst in Epoxy Resin
Authors: Lyu Qing , Yan Hongxia , Li Lin , Chen Zhengyan , Yao Huanhuan , Nie Yufeng
Published: September 2017

Surface modification of graphene oxide (GO) is one of the most important issues to produce high performance GO/epoxy composites. In this paper, the imidazole ionic liquid (IMD-Si) was introduced onto the surface of GO sheets by a cheap and simple method, to prepare a reinforcing filler, as well as a catalyst in epoxy resin. The interlayer spacing of GO sheets was obviously increased by the intercalation of IMD-Si, which strongly facilitated the dispersibility of graphene oxide in organic solvents and epoxy matrix. The addition of 0.4 wt % imidazolium ionic liquid modified graphene oxide (IMD-Si@GO), yielded a 12% increase in flexural strength (141.3 MPa), a 26% increase in flexural modulus (4.69 GPa), and a 52% increase in impact strength (18.7 kJ/m2), compared to the neat epoxy. Additionally the IMD-Si@GO sheets could catalyze the curing reaction of epoxy resin-anhydride system significantly. Moreover, the improved thermal conductivities and thermal stabilities of epoxy composites filled with IMD-Si@GO were also demonstrated.
How Chain Intermixing Dictates the Polymorphism of PVDF in Poly(vinylidene fluoride)/Polymethylmethacrylate Binary System during Recrystallization: A Comparative Study on Core–Shell Particles and Latex Blend
Authors: Li Yue , Zhang Guoqiang , Song Shaofeng , Xu Haijun , Pan Mingwang , Zhong Gan-Ji
Published: September 2017

In the past few decades, Poly(vinylidene fluoride)/Polymethylmethacrylate (PVDF/PMMA) binary blend has attracted substantial attention in the scientific community due to possible intriguing mechanical, optical and ferroelectric properties that are closely related to its multiple crystal structures/phases. However, the effect of PMMA phase on the polymorphism of PVDF, especially the relationship between miscibility and polymorphism, remains an open question and is not yet fully understood. In this work, three series of particle blends with varied levels of miscibility between PVDF and PMMA were prepared via seeded emulsion polymerization: PVDF–PMMA core–shell particle (PVDF@PMMA) with high miscibility; PVDF/PMMA latex blend with modest miscibility; and PVDF@c–PMMA (crosslinked PMMA) core–shell particle with negligible miscibility. The difference in miscibility, and the corresponding morphology and polymorphism were systematically studied to correlate the PMMA/PVDF miscibility with PVDF polymorphism. It is of interest to observe that the formation of polar β/γ phase during melt crystallization could be governed in two ways: dipole–dipole interaction and fast crystallization. For PVDF@PMMA and PVDF/PMMA systems, in which fast crystallization was unlikely triggered, higher content of β/γ phase, and intense suppression of crystallization temperature and capacity were observed in PVDF@PMMA, because high miscibility favored a higher intensity of overall dipole–dipole interaction and a longer interaction time. For PVDF@c–PMMA system, after a complete coverage of PVDF seeds by PMMA shells, nearly pure β/γ phase was obtained owing to the fast homogeneous nucleation. This is the first report that high miscibility between PVDF and PMMA could favor the formation of β/γ phase.
Interest Rates Term Structure under Ambiguity
Authors: Romagnoli Silvia , Santoro Simona
Published: September 2017

After financial crisis, the role of uncertainty in decision making processes has largely been recognized as the new variable that contributes to shaping interest rates and bond prices. Our aim is to discuss the impact of ambiguity on bonds interest rates (yields). Starting from the realistic assumption that investors ask for an ambiguity premium depending on the efficacy of government interventions (if any), we lead to an exponential multi-factor affine model which includes ambiguity as well as an ambiguous version of the Heath-Jarrow-Morton (HJM)model. As an example, we propose the realistic economic framework given by Ulrich (2008, 2011), and we recover the corresponding ambiguous HJM framework, thus offering a large set of interest rate models enriched with ambiguity. We also give a concrete view of how different simulated scenarios of ambiguity can influence the economic cycle (through rates and bond prices).
Comparative Analysis of Nature-Related Transactions and Governance Structures in Pasture Use and Irrigation Water in Central Asia
Authors: Kasymov Ulan , Hamidov Ahmad
Published: September 2017

Central Asian countries have experienced a transition from a centralized state-managed economy to a decentralized market-oriented one, and gained valuable experience in designing institutions involving common-pool resource (CPR) management. Top-down policy interventions have affected natural resource usage practices and had environmental, social and economic consequences. On the other hand, in a bottom-up transformation process, many informal practices for using local resources and many forms of cooperation have emerged and become institutionalized, adapting to the changing socio-economic context. This paper demonstrates an empirical application of the Institutions of Sustainability (IoS) framework, analyzing these emerged institutions, and governance structures in pasture and irrigation management. It studies how the physical nature-related transactions are institutionalized through the operationalization of a discriminative alignment principle. The research results show that actors’ interdependencies caused by the attributes of nature-related transactions play a decisive role in institutional development in CPR management in Central Asia. The authors argue that differences in the properties of physical nature-related transactions in pasture and irrigation water use can be linked and explained through differences in the key characteristics of governance structures.
Key Factors Affecting the Price of Airbnb Listings: A Geographically Weighted Approach
Authors: Zhang Zhihua , Chen Rachel , Han Lee , Yang Lu
Published: September 2017

Airbnb has been increasingly gaining popularity since 2008 due to its low prices and direct interactions with the local community. This paper employed a general linear model (GLM) and a geographically weighted regression (GWR) model to identify the key factors affecting Airbnb listing prices using data sets of 794 samples of Airbnb listings of business units in Metro Nashville, Tennessee. The results showed that the GWR model performs better than the GLM in terms of accuracy and affected variable selections. Statistically significant differences varied across regions in Metro Nashville. The coefficients illustrate a decreasing trend while there is an increase in the distance from the listed units to the convention center, which indicates that Airbnb listing prices are more sensitive to the distance from the convention center in the central area than in other areas. These findings can also provide implications for stakeholders such as Airbnb hosts to gain a better understanding of the market situation and formulate a suitable pricing strategy.
α-Conotoxin Decontamination Protocol Evaluation: What Works and What Doesn’t
Authors: Turner Matthew , Cort John , McDougal Owen
Published: September 2017

Nine publically available biosafety protocols for safely handling conotoxin peptides were tested to evaluate their decontamination efficacy. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry (MS) were used to assess the effect of each chemical treatment on the secondary and primary structure of α-CTx MII (L10V, E11A). Of the nine decontamination methods tested, treatment with 1% (m/v) solution of the enzymatic detergent Contrex™ EZ resulted in a 76.8% decrease in α-helical content as assessed by the mean residue ellipticity at 222 nm, and partial peptide digestion was demonstrated using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Additionally, treatment with 6% sodium hypochlorite (m/v) resulted in 80.5% decrease in α-helical content and complete digestion of the peptide. The Contrex™ EZ treatment was repeated with three additional α-conotoxins (α-CTxs), α-CTxs LvIA, ImI and PeIA, which verified the decontamination method was reasonably robust. These results support the use of either 1% Contrex™ EZ solution or 6% sodium hypochlorite in biosafety protocols for the decontamination of α-CTxs in research laboratories.
Characterization of vB_SauM-fRuSau02, a Twort-Like Bacteriophage Isolated from a Therapeutic Phage Cocktail
Authors: Leskinen Katarzyna , Tuomala Henni , Wicklund Anu , Horsma-Heikkinen Jenni , Kuusela Pentti , Skurnik Mikael , Kiljunen Saija
Published: September 2017

Staphylococcus aureus is a commensal and pathogenic bacterium that causes infections in humans and animals. It is a major cause of nosocomial infections worldwide. Due to increasing prevalence of multidrug resistance, alternative methods to eradicate the pathogen are necessary. In this respect, polyvalent staphylococcal myoviruses have been demonstrated to be excellent candidates for phage therapy. Here we present the characterization of the bacteriophage vB_SauM-fRuSau02 (fRuSau02) that was isolated from a commercial Staphylococcus bacteriophage cocktail produced by Microgen (Moscow, Russia). The genomic analysis revealed that fRuSau02 is very closely related to the phage MSA6, and possesses a large genome (148,464 bp), with typical modular organization and a low G+C (30.22%) content. It can therefore be classified as a new virus among the genus Twortlikevirus. The genome contains 236 predicted genes, 4 of which were interrupted by insertion sequences. Altogether, 78 different structural and virion-associated proteins were identified from purified phage particles by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The host range of fRuSau02 was tested with 135 strains, including 51 and 54 Staphylococcus aureus isolates from humans and pigs, respectively, and 30 coagulase-negative Staphylococcus strains of human origin. All clinical S. aureus strains were at least moderately sensitive to the phage, while only 39% of the pig strains were infected. Also, some strains of Staphylococcus intermedius, Staphylococcus lugdunensis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus haemolyticus, Staphylococcus saprophyticus and Staphylococcus pseudointer were sensitive. We conclude that fRuSau02, a phage therapy agent in Russia, can serve as an alternative to antibiotic therapy against S. aureus.
The Current Status and Future of Central Asia’s Fish and Fisheries: Confronting a Wicked Problem
Authors: Graham Norman , Pueppke Steven , Uderbayev Talgat
Published: September 2017

Central Asia’s arid lowland ecosystems are dependent on water that originates in nearby mountains and is carried by rivers to terminal lakes and freshwater seas with no outlets to the ocean. Fish traditionally thrived in these waterways, but they have become increasingly jeopardized by water impoundment and diversion for energy and crop production. Fish capture in the five new Central Asian republics consequently entered a period of long decline, a trend that was accelerated by removal of the centralized controls imposed by the former Soviet Union. Production levels have recovered during the past decade, but only in some countries. A similar trend is evident with aquaculture, which reached its lowest production levels in 2003–2008 but now is partially recovering. In both cases, progress is most evident in water-deficient Uzbekistan. Fish capture in Kazakhstan’s Ili River ecosystem, including Kapchagay Reservoir and Lake Balkhash, is now dropping precipitously. Effects on the lake’s fisheries have been magnified by the disproportionate rates of disappearance of valuable carp and pike-perch. The interrelationships between water, energy, and food underlie these threats to Central Asia’s fish and define a classic “wicked problem” that must be addressed regionally with explicit attention given to fish as important components of the ecosystem. Recent developments, although not all positive, give reason for cautious optimism that the region’s fisheries and aquaculture industries can be stabilized.
Factors Affecting Tufa Degradation in Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve, Sichuan, China
Authors: Liu Lixia
Published: September 2017

Water and tufa samples were collected from Arrow Bamboo Lake, the stream from Panda Lake to Five-Color Lake, Pearl Shoal and Shuzheng Lakes in Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve, China, between October 2013 and September 2014, to investigate tufa growth rate and water environment (water temperature, pH, electric conductivity, major ions and nutrients), and analyzed to explore the main causes of tufa degradation. The mean annual rate of tufa growth was low and varied within lakes, with the maximum deposit thickness of 332 μm/y. The calcite saturation index ranged from 0.65 to 0.83. Scanning electron microscope images showed that the tufa deposits had non-isopachous structures, and diatoms were the dominant microorganisms that participated in tufa deposition. Porous and crystalline structures of deposits were linked with a high tufa growth and small amounts of diatoms. Conversely, tufa deposits with amorphous and loose structures showed a low crystal growth rate and a high number of diatoms. A one-way analysis of variance and a least significant difference test were applied to identify site differences in water chemistry. Linear correlations indicated that nitrate, phosphate and sulfate inhibit tufa growth (p < 0.05). Increased nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations that originate mainly from atmospheric pollution and tourist activities at scenic attractions could trigger excessive diatom growth, which inhibits tufa precipitation. A series of measures should be implemented (e.g., the visitor number and vehicles should be regulated and controlled) to minimize tufa degradation in the Jiuzhaigou National Nature Reserve.
One-pot multistep mechanochemical synthesis of fluorinated pyrazolones
Authors: Howard Joseph L , Nicholson William , Sagatov Yerbol , Browne Duncan L
Published: September 2017

Solventless mechanochemical synthesis represents a technique with improved sustainability metrics compared to solvent-based processes. Herein, we describe a methodical process to run one solventless reaction directly into another through multistep mechanochemistry, effectively amplifying the solvent savings. The approach has to consider the solid form of the materials and compatibility of any auxiliary used. This has culminated in the development of a two-step, one-jar protocol for heterocycle formation and subsequent fluorination that has been successfully applied across a range of substrates, resulting in 12 difluorinated pyrazolones in moderate to excellent yields.
Comparative Transcriptome and Lipidome Analyses Reveal Molecular Chilling Responses in Chilling‐Tolerant Sorghums
Authors: Marla Sandeep R. , Shiva Sunitha , Welti Ruth , Liu Sanzhen , Burke John J. , Morris Geoffrey P.
Published: September 2017

Chilling temperatures (0 to 15°C) are a major constraint for temperate cultivation of tropical‐origin crops, including the cereal crop sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench). Northern Chinese sorghums have adapted to early‐season chilling, but molecular mechanisms of chilling tolerance are unknown. We used RNA sequencing of seedlings to compare the chilling‐responsive transcriptomes of a chilling‐tolerant Chinese accession with a chilling‐sensitive US reference line, and mass spectrometry to compare chilling‐responsive lipidomes of four chilling‐tolerant Chinese accessions with two US reference lines. Comparative transcriptomics revealed chilling‐induced up‐regulation of cold‐response regulator C‐repeat binding factor (CBF) transcription factor and genes involved in reactive oxygen detoxification, jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis, and lipid remodeling phospholipase Dα1 (PLDα1) gene in the chilling‐tolerant Chinese line. Lipidomics revealed conserved chilling‐induced increases in lipid unsaturation, as well as lipid remodeling of photosynthetic membranes that is specific to chilling‐tolerant Chinese accessions. Our results point to CBF‐mediated transcriptional regulation, galactolipid and phospholipid remodeling, and JA as potential molecular mechanisms underlying chilling adaptation in Chinese sorghums. These molecular systems underlying chilling response could be targeted in molecular breeding for chilling tolerance.
A Method for Evaluating Tram Stops Based on Passenger Expectations and the Needs of Disabled Persons
Authors: Podciborski Tomasz
Published: September 2017

Criteria against which assessment is carried out the operation of public transport generally refer to specific elements of the network of public transport, such as lines, vehicles, bus stops, etc. Criteria for evaluation and their types can be many and they can have diverse nature (Saaty 1995). The main aim of this study was to develop a method for evaluating tram stops based on passenger expectations and the needs of disabled persons. This consisted in developing the list of items to be evaluated and principles of assessment. The proposed method was verified in selected sites, and the results of the assessment are discussed in the paper. The surveyed sites were tram stops in the city of Olsztyn in north-eastern Poland. The main aim was achieved through detailed goals, including definition of the concept of municipal transport, description of infrastructure components that influence the quality, attractiveness and safety of the analyzed tram stops, presentation of evaluation indicators and the relevant criteria, and description of evaluation principles.
A Search for Quasi-periodic Oscillations in the Blazar 1ES 1959+650
Authors: Li Xiao-Pan , Luo Yu-Hui , Yang Hai-Yan , Yang Cheng , Cai Yan , Yang Hai-Tao
Published: September 2017

We have searched quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) in the 15 GHz light curve of the BL Lac object 1ES 1959+650 monitored by the Owens Valley Radio Observatory 40 m telescope during the period from 2008 January to 2016 February, using the Lomb–Scargle Periodogram, power spectral density (PSD), discrete autocorrelation function, and phase dispersion minimization (PDM) techniques. The red noise background has been established via the PSD method, and no QPO can be derived at the 3σ confidence level accounting for the impact of the red noise variability. We conclude that the light curve of 1ES 1959+650 can be explained by a stochastic red noise process that contributes greatly to the total observed variability amplitude, dominates the power spectrum, causes spurious bumps and wiggles in the autocorrelation function and can result in the variance of the folded light curve decreasing toward lower temporal frequencies when few-cycle, sinusoid-like patterns are present. Moreover, many early supposed periodicity claims for blazar light curves need to be reevaluated assuming red noise.
Hydrodynamic Photoevaporation of Protoplanetary Disks with Consistent Thermochemistry
Authors: Wang Lile , Goodman Jeremy
Published: September 2017

Photoevaporation is an important dispersal mechanism for protoplanetary disks. We conduct hydrodynamic simulations coupled with ray-tracing radiative transfer and consistent thermochemistry to study photoevaporative winds driven by ultraviolet and X-ray radiation from the host star. Most models have a three-layer structure: a cold midplane, warm intermediate layer, and hot wind, the last having typical speeds

and mass-loss rates

when driven primarily by ionizing UV radiation. Observable molecules, including CO,

, and

re-form in the intermediate layer and survive at relatively high wind temperatures due to reactions being out of equilibrium. Mass-loss rates are sensitive to the intensity of radiation in energy bands that interact directly with hydrogen. Comparison with previous works shows that mass-loss rates are also sensitive to the treatment of both the hydrodynamics and thermochemistry. Divergent results concerning the efficiency of X-ray photoevaporation are traced in part to differing assumptions about dust and other coolants.
On Excited Frequencies for Alfvén Waves in a Coronal Arcade
Authors: Tarr Lucas A.
Published: September 2017

The normal modes of oscillation for a magnetic arcade are used to analytically solve an initial value problem and estimate the power spectra of wave frequencies generated by a reconnection event in the solar corona. Over a realistic range of parameters, I find that such a disturbance generates a peak power at ∼10 s

frequency and substantial power up to

. The cadence and sensitivity of current instrumentation does not allow observations of oscillations at these frequencies, but in the near future, new instrumentation will be able to probe this regime and observationally determine its energetic importance.
Cosmicflows-3: Cold Spot Repeller?
Authors: Courtois Hélène M. , Tully R. Brent , Hoffman Yehuda , Pomarède Daniel , Graziani Romain , Dupuy Alexandra
Published: September 2017

The three-dimensional gravitational velocity field within z ∼ 0.1 has been modeled with the Wiener filter methodology applied to the Cosmicflows-3 compilation of galaxy distances. The dominant features are a basin of attraction and two basins of repulsion. The major basin of attraction is an extension of the Shapley concentration of galaxies. One basin of repulsion, the Dipole Repeller, is located near the anti-apex of the cosmic microwave background dipole. The other basin of repulsion is in the proximate direction toward the “Cold Spot” irregularity in the cosmic microwave background. It has been speculated that a vast void might contribute to the amplitude of the Cold Spot from the integrated Sachs–Wolfe effect.