bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Active Constituents and Evaluation of the Biological Effects of Quercus acuta Thunb. (Fagaceae) Extracts
Authors: Kim Mi-Hyeon , Park Dae-Hun , Bae Min-Suk , Song Seung-Hui , Seo Hyung-Ju , Han Dong-Gyun , Oh Deuk-Sil , Jung Sung-Tae , Cho Young-Chang , Park Kyung-Mok , Bae Chun-Sik , Yoon In-Soo , Cho Seung-Sik
Published: July 2018

We evaluated the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of hexnane, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, ethanol, and water extracts of the Quercus acuta leaf. The antioxidant properties were evaluated by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and total phenolic content. Antibacterial activity was assessed against general infectious pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant clinical isolates. The methanolic extract showed the highest DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content, while the reducing power was the highest in the water extract. The ethyl acetate extract showed the best antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. Additionally, it displayed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus KCTC1928, Micrococcus luteus ATCC 9341, Salmonella typhimurium KCTC 1925, Escherichia coli KCTC 1923, and eight MRSA strains. These results present basic information for the possible uses of the ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts from Q. acuta leaf in the treatment of diseases that are caused by oxidative imbalance and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections. Six active compounds, including vitamin E, which are known to possess antioxidant and antibacterial activity, were identified from the extracts. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that reports the chemical profiling and antibacterial effects of the various QA leaf extracts, suggesting their potential use in food therapy or alternative medicine.
Aqueous Extract of Perilla frutescens var. acuta Relaxes the Ciliary Smooth Muscle by Increasing NO/cGMP Content In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Kim Jaeyong , Kang Huwon , Choi Hakjoon , Jo Ara , Oh Dooi-Ri , Kim Yujin , Im Sojeong , Lee Seul-Gi , Jeong Kyeong-In , Ryu Geun-Chang , Choi Chulyung
Published: July 2018

The leaves of Perilla frutescens var. acuta (PFA) are commonly used as a traditional medicine in Korea, Japan, and China. We previously showed that PFA attenuates eye fatigue by improving visual accommodation through a clinical study. However, detailed mechanisms and chemical compounds have not been studied. In this study, we analyzed the active compounds in an aqueous extract of PFA involved in ciliary muscle relaxation in vitro and in vivo. NMR and MS analyses showed that the PFA extract contained mainly luteolin-7-O-diglucuronide and apigenin-7-O-diglucuronide. The composition after freeze-drying and spray-drying was similar. Freeze-dried PFA (50 µg/mL, 100 µg/mL, and 200 µg/mL) increased nitric oxide and cGMP levels in ciliary muscle cells isolated from the eyes of rats. [Ca2+]i decreased in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Sprague-Dawley rats treated with freeze-dried PFA (200 mg/kg, orally) showed significantly increased cGMP levels compared with the control group and irradiated with white light. Our results suggest that PFA extract has the potential to reduce eye fatigue by relaxing ciliary muscles.
Mass Spectrometric Analysis of Bisphenol A Desorption from Titania Nanoparticles: Ammonium Acetate, Fluoride, Formate, and Hydroxide as Chemical Desorption Agents
Authors: Majedi Seyed Mohammad , Lai Edward P. C.
Published: July 2018

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a widely used chemical in several consumer products and a well-studied environmental toxicant, and therefore, its accurate measurement is highly demanded. However, the co-presence of nanoparticles as an emerging class of contaminants could result in inaccurate determination of BPA due to binding of BPA onto nanoparticle surface. In this study, mass spectrometry (MS) was used to investigate desorption of BPA bound on the surface of titania (TiO2) nanoparticles in water. Ammonium acetate, fluoride, formate, and hydroxide were evaluated as chemical agents for their desorption capabilities. The percentages of recovery, adsorption, and desorption were determined by this new method without requiring any prior separation of nanoparticles from BPA. MS analysis demonstrated the desorption of BPA by 10–20 mM of ammonium hydroxide for a mixture of 5 µg/mL BPA and 10 µg/mL TiO2 nanoparticles, with a desorption efficiency of 72 ± 1%. Due to adsorption of BPA onto the nanoparticle surface that was inefficient for electrospray ionization, the resulting abundance of target ions could be reduced in the detection of BPA by mass spectrometry. As such, these findings collectively promise an accurate determination of the total BPA concentration in water whether it exists in the free or bound form. Efficient desorption of contaminants from the surface of nanoparticles would improve the accuracy of the contaminant analysis by mass spectrometry.
Two-Step Magnetization Reversal FORC Fingerprint of Coupled Bi-Segmented Ni/Co Magnetic Nanowire Arrays
Authors: García Fernández Javier , Vega Martínez Víctor , Thomas Andy , De la Prida Pidal Víctor Manuel , Nielsch Kornelius
Published: July 2018

First Order Reversal Curve (FORC) analysis has been established as an appropriate method to investigate the magnetic interactions among complex ferromagnetic nanostructures. In this work, the magnetization reversal mechanism of bi-segmented nanowires composed by long Co and Ni segments contacted at one side was investigated, as a model system to identify and understand the FORC fingerprint of a two-step magnetization reversal process. The resulting hysteresis loop of the bi-segmented nanowire array exhibits a completely different magnetic behavior than the one expected for the magnetization reversal process corresponding to each respective Co and Ni nanowire arrays, individually. Based on the FORC analysis, two possible magnetization reversal processes can be distinguished as a consequence of the ferromagnetic coupling at the interface between the Ni and Co segments. Depending on the relative difference between the magnetization switching fields of each segment, the softer magnetic phase induces the switching of the harder one through the injection and propagation of a magnetic domain wall when both switching fields are comparable. On the other hand, if the switching fields values differ enough, the antiparallel magnetic configuration of nanowires is also possible but energetically unfavorable, thus resulting in an unstable magnetic configuration. Making use of the different temperature dependence of the magnetic properties for each nanowire segment with different composition, one of the two types of magnetization reversal is favored, as demonstrated by FORC analyses.
Long-Term Dietary Intake of Chia Seed Is Associated with Increased Bone Mineral Content and Improved Hepatic and Intestinal Morphology in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Montes Chañi Evelyn M. , Pacheco Sandaly O. S. , Martínez Gustavo A. , Freitas Maykon R. , Ivona Joaquin G. , Ivona Javier A. , Craig Winston J. , Pacheco Fabio J.
Published: July 2018

Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) provide an unusually high content of α-linolenic acid with several potential health benefits, but few studies have examined the long-term intake of n-3 fatty acid-rich plant foods such as chia. In this work, we investigated some of the effects of a diet containing 10% chia seeds versus a conventional isocaloric diet for 10 and 13 months on body measurements, musculoskeletal system, the liver, and the intestines of 20 male Sprague-Dawley rats assigned into two groups. The n-6/n-3 ratios for the control and chia diets were 7.46 and 1.07, respectively. For the first 10 months of the diet, the body parameters and weights were similar, but at 13 months, the bone mineral content (BMC) of the chia-fed rats was significantly higher than that of the controls whether in total or proximal areas of the left tibia. Also, significant positive correlations were found between the age of the chia group and the bone mineral density, BMC, weight of the musculoskeletal system, final body weight, and skin weight. Liver and intestinal examinations showed improved morphology associated with lower lipid deposit in hepatocytes and increased intestinal muscle layers and crypt size in the chia group. This study provides new data suggesting the potential benefits associated with the long-term intake of chia seeds.
A Micellar-Hydrogel Nanogrid from a UV Crosslinked Inulin Derivative for the Simultaneous Delivery of Hydrophobic and Hydrophilic Drugs
Authors: Mandracchia Delia , Trapani Adriana , Perteghella Sara , Di Franco Cinzia , Torre Maria Luisa , Calleri Enrica , Tripodo Giuseppe
Published: July 2018

Hydrogels are among the most common materials used in drug delivery, as polymeric micelles are too. They, preferentially, load hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, respectively. In this paper, we thought to combine the favorable behaviors of both hydrogels and polymeric micelles with the specific aim of delivering hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs for dual delivery in combination therapy, in particular for colon drug delivery. Thus, we developed a hydrogel by UV crosslinking of a methacrylated (MA) amphiphilic derivative from inulin (INU) (as known INU is specifically degraded into the colon) and vitamin E (VITE), called INVITEMA. The methacrylated micelles were physicochemically characterized and subjected to UV irradiation to form what we called the “nanogrids”. The INVITEMA nanogrids were characterized by DSC, SEM, TEM, water uptake and beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) release. In particular, the release of the hydrophobic drug was specifically assessed to verify that it can spread along the hydrophilic portions and, therefore, effectively released. These systems can open new pharmaceutical applications for known hydrogels or micelle systems, considering that in literature only few examples are present.
Dynamic and Static Mechanical Properties of Crosslinked Polymer Matrices: Multiscale Simulations and Experiments
Authors: Guseva Daria V. , Rudyak Vladimir Yu. , Komarov Pavel V. , Bulgakov Boris A. , Babkin Alexander V. , Chertovich Alexander V.
Published: July 2018

We studied the static and dynamic mechanical properties of crosslinked polymer matrices using multiscale simulations and experiments. We continued to develop the multiscale methodology for generating atomistic polymer networks, and applied it to the case of phthalonitrile resin. The mechanical properties of the resulting networks were analyzed using atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) and dissipative particle dynamics (DPD). The Young’s and storage moduli increased with conversion, due both to the appearance of a network of covalent bonds, and to freezing of degrees of freedom and lowering of the glass transition temperature during crosslinking. The simulations’ data showed good quantitative agreement with experimental dynamic mechanical analysis measurements at temperatures below the glass transition. The data obtained in MD and DPD simulations at elevated temperatures were conformable. This makes it possible to use the suggested approach for the prediction of mechanical properties of a broad range of polymer matrices, including ones with high structural heterogeneity.
Functionalized Graphene Oxide Modified Polyethersulfone Membranes for Low-Pressure Anionic Dye/Salt Fractionation
Authors: Liu Lifen , Xie Xin , Zambare Rahul S. , Selvaraj Antony Prince James , Sowrirajalu Bhuvana NIL , Song Xiaoxiao , Tang Chuyang Y. , Gao Congjie
Published: July 2018

In this study, polyelectrolyte assembled functionalized graphene oxide (PE-GO) membranes were fabricated through a one-step charge facilitated deposition method for high performance dye/salt separation. According to the intercalation of polydopamine (PDA) and (ionic liquid) IL functional moieties into the GO membranes, the pore size of the resulted PE-pGO and PE-iGO membrane increased from 2.69 nm to 4.13 nm and 6.54 nm, respectively. Correspondingly, a pure water flux of 13.8 ± 2.2, 36.7 ± 3.4, and 52.1 ± 6.7 L m−1 h−1 bar−1 was achieved for PE-GO, PE-pGO and PE-iGO membrane, respectively. PE-iGO membrane with the largest pore size could be operated with significant water permeability (28.3 to 38.3 L m−1 h−1 bar−1) at a low operating pressure range of 0.5–2 bar (dye concentration = 100 ppm, salt concentration = 5 g/L). More importantly, functionalities introduced to the GO nanosheets are found to impact the dye adsorption to the membrane surface. The IL intercalation promotes the elution of dye molecules from the IL moieties at elevated pH, therefore enhancing the efficiency of alkaline washing of the membrane. By contrast, the intercalation of PDA weakens such efficiency due to its strong adhesion force to the dye molecules even at the alkaline condition.
Fabrication of Porous Polyvinylidene Fluoride/Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube Nanocomposites and Their Enhanced Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Du Fei-Peng , Qiao Xuan , Wu Yan-Guang , Fu Ping , Liu Sheng-Peng , Zhang Yun-Fei , Wang Qiu-Yu
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a solvent vapor-induced phase separation (SVIPS) technique was used to create a porous structure in polyvinylidene fluoride/Multi-walled carbon nanotube (PVDF/MWNTs) composites with the aim of increasing the electrical conductivity through the incorporation of MWNTs while retaining a low thermal conductivity. By using the dimethylformamide/acetone mixture, porous networks could be generated in the PVDF/MWNTs composites upon the rapid volatilization of acetone. The electrical conductivity was gradually enhanced by the addition of MWNTs. At the same time, the thermal conductivity of the PVDF film could be retained at 0.1546 W·m−1·K−1 due to the porous structure being even by loaded with a high content of MWNTs (i.e., 15 wt.%). Thus, the Seebeck coefficient, power factor and figure of merit (ZT) were subsequently improved with maximum values of 324.45 μV/K, 1.679 μW·m−1·K−2, and 3.3 × 10−3, respectively. The microstructures, thermal properties, and thermoelectric properties of the porous PVDF/MWNTs composites were studied. It was found that the enhancement of thermoelectric properties would be attributed to the oxidation of MWNTs and the porous structure of the composites. The decrease of thermal conductivity and the increase of Seebeck coefficient were induced by the phonon scattering and energy-filtering effect. The proposed method was found to be facile and effective in creating a positive effect on the thermoelectric properties of composites.
Immobilizing Laccase on Modified Cellulose/CF Beads to Degrade Chlorinated Biphenyl in Wastewater
Authors: Li Na , Xia Quiyang , Li Yuan , Hou Xiaobang , Niu Meihong , Ping Qingwei , Xiao Huining
Published: July 2018

Novel modified cellulose/cellulose fibril (CF) beads (MCCBs) loaded with laccase were prepared to degrade polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in wastewater. The proper porous structure in MCCBs was achieved by introducing nano CaCO3 (as a pore forming agent) in cellulose/CF (CCBs) beads during the preparation process. Cellulose/CF composite beads were modified by maleic anhydride to introduce carboxyl groups. Laccase was immobilized on the MCCBs through electrostatic adsorption and covalent bonding. The effects of pH, laccase concentration and contact time on immobilization yields and recovered activity were investigated. The best conditions were pH 4, concentration 16 g/L and contact time 3 h. The immobilized laccase under these conditions showed a good performance in thermal and operational stability. The laccase immobilized on MCCB beads can remove 85% of 20 mg/L 4-hydroxy-3,5-dichlorobiphenyl (HO-DiCB) in wastewater. The results demonstrated that MCCBs, as a new type of green-based support, are very promising in material immobilizing laccase. This technology may be of potential advantage for the removal of polychlorinated biphenyls in wastewater from an environmental point of view.
Uncovering Discrete Synaptic Proteomes to Understand Neurological Disorders
Authors: Wang Yi-Zhi , Savas Jeffrey N.
Published: July 2018

The mammalian nervous system is an immensely heterogeneous organ composed of a diverse collection of neuronal types that interconnect in complex patterns. Synapses are highly specialized neuronal cell-cell junctions with common and distinct functional characteristics that are governed by their protein composition or synaptic proteomes. Even a single neuron can possess a wide-range of different synapse types and each synapse contains hundreds or even thousands of proteins. Many neurological disorders and diseases are caused by synaptic dysfunction within discrete neuronal populations. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic analysis has emerged as a powerful strategy to characterize synaptic proteomes and potentially identify disease driving synaptic alterations. However, most traditional synaptic proteomic analyses have been limited by molecular averaging of proteins from multiple types of neurons and synapses. Recently, several new strategies have emerged to tackle the ‘averaging problem’. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in our ability to characterize neuron-type specific and synapse-type specific proteomes and discuss strengths and limitations of these emerging analysis strategies.
Smart Agricultural Machine with a Computer Vision-Based Weeding and Variable-Rate Irrigation Scheme
Authors: Chang Chung-Liang , Lin Kuan-Ming
Published: July 2018

This paper proposes a scheme that combines computer vision and multi-tasking processes to develop a small-scale smart agricultural machine that can automatically weed and perform variable rate irrigation within a cultivated field. Image processing methods such as HSV (hue (H), saturation (S), value (V)) color conversion, estimation of thresholds during the image binary segmentation process, and morphology operator procedures are used to confirm the position of the plant and weeds, and those results are used to perform weeding and watering operations. Furthermore, the data on the wet distribution area of surface soil (WDAS) and the moisture content of the deep soil is provided to a fuzzy logic controller, which drives pumps to perform variable rate irrigation and to achieve water savings. The proposed system has been implemented in small machines and the experimental results show that the system can classify plant and weeds in real time with an average classification rate of 90% or higher. This allows the machine to do weeding and watering while maintaining the moisture content of the deep soil at 80 ± 10% and an average weeding rate of 90%.
Characteristics, Usability, and Users Experience of a System Combining Cognitive and Physical Therapy in a Virtual Environment: Positive Bike
Authors: Pedroli Elisa , Greci Luca , Colombo Desirèe , Serino Silvia , Cipresso Pietro , Arlati Sara , Mondellini Marta , Boilini Lorenzo , Giussani Valentina , Goulene Karine , Agostoni Monica , Sacco Marco , Stramba-Badiale Marco , Riva Giuseppe , Gaggioli Andrea
Published: July 2018

We present the architecture and usability evaluation of virtual reality system—“Positive Bike”—designed for improving cognitive and motor conditions in frail elderly patients. The system consists of a cycle-ergometer integrated in an immersive virtual reality system (CAVE) which allows combining motor and cognitive exercises according to a “dual-task” paradigm. We tested the usability and user’s experience of the prototype in a pilot evaluation study that involved five elderly patients. The prototype was tested in one-session training to understand the limitations and areas for improvement of our system. The evaluation consisted in (i) usability assessment using the system usability scale; (ii) evaluation of user’s engagement using the flow state scale; and (iii) expert evaluation involving interviews with domain experts. Results showed a good usability, both for system usability scale and the semi-structured interview. The level of flow (i.e., enjoyment with the task at hand) measured using the short flow state scale, was also high. Analysis of semi-structured interview carried out with domain experts provided further indications to improve the system. Overall, these findings show that, despite some limitations, the system is usable and provides an enjoyable user’s experience.
Research and Fabrication of High-Frequency Broadband and Omnidirectional Transmitting Transducer
Authors: Hao Shaohua , Wang Hongwei , Zhong Chao , Wang Likun , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2018

A wide-band cylindrical transducer was developed by using the wide band of the composite material and the matched matching layer for multimode coupling. Firstly, the structure size of the transducer’s sensitive component was designed by using ANSYS simulation software. Secondly, the piezoelectric composite ring-shaped sensitive component was fabricated by the piezoelectric composite curved-surface forming process, and the matching layer was coated on the periphery of the ring-shaped piezoelectric composite material. Finally, it was encapsulated and the electrodes were drawn out to make a high-frequency broadband horizontal omnidirectional water acoustic transducer prototype. After testing, the working frequency range of the transducer was 230–380 kHz, and the maximum transmission voltage response was 168 dB in the water.
Differentiated Data Aggregation Routing Scheme for Energy Conserving and Delay Sensitive Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Li Xujing , Liu Wei , Xie Mande , Liu Anfeng , Zhao Ming , Xiong Neal N. , Zhao Miao , Dai Wan
Published: July 2018

Data aggregation is a widely adopted method to effectively reduce the data transmission volume and improve the lifetime of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). In the data aggregation networks, some parameters directly determine the delay of aggregation. In industrial applications, the data generated by different sensors have different requirements for delay or other QoS performance. In the previous study, a common strategy is that all kinds of data is aggregated into one frame when the condition is satisfied with a QoS requirement, which causes excessive energy consumption and severely impairs the lifetime of network. A Differentiated Data Aggregation Routing (DDAR) scheme is proposed to reduce energy consumption and guarantee that the delay could be controlled within the corresponding QoS requirement constraint. The primary contributions of the DDAR scheme are the following: (a) The DDAR scheme makes data with different QoS requirement route to the sink along the different paths. The parameters of the aggregators in each path, such as aggregation deadline (Tt) and the aggregation threshold (Nt), are configured according to the QoS requirements. Accordingly, energy consumption can be reduced without degrading the performance of data transmission. (b) Based on DDAR scheme, an improved DDAR scheme is proposed to further improve performance through fully utilize the residual energy in the nodes which are far from the sink. The frequency of aggregation of these nodes increases by reducing the value of Tt and Nt so as to further improve the energy efficiency and reduce delay. Simulation results demonstrate that compared with the previous scheme, this scheme reduces the delay by 25.01%, improves the lifetime by 55.45%, and increases energy efficiency by 83.99%. The improved DDAR scheme improves the energy efficiency by 33.97% and service guarantee rate by 10.11%.
Does Use Matter? Comparison of Environmental Impacts of Clothing Based on Fiber Type
Authors: Laitala Kirsi , Klepp Ingun , Henry Beverley
Published: July 2018

Several tools have been developed to compare the environmental impact of textiles. The most widely used are Higg Materials Sustainability Index (MSI) and MADE-BY Fiber Benchmark. They use data from production to evaluate the environmental impacts of textiles differentiated by fiber type. The use phase is excluded from both tools. This article discusses whether there is evidence that the use of textiles differs systematically between different fiber types and examines the consequences of comparing the environmental impacts of clothing based on differences in production of fibers alone without including differences in their use. The empirical material in this paper is based on analysis of rating tools and a literature review on clothing use. It shows that fiber content contributes to the way consumers take care of and use their clothing. When use is omitted, major environmental problems associated with this stage, such as spread of microplastics, are also excluded. This one-sided focus on material production impacts also excludes the importance of product lifespans, quality, and functionality. The consequence is that short-lived disposable products are equated with durable products. Comparing dissimilar garments will not help consumers to make choices that will reduce the environmental burden of clothing. We need an informed discussion on how to use all materials in the most environmentally sustainable way possible.
A Comparison of Structural Equation Modeling Approaches with DeLone & McLean’s Model: A Case Study of Radio-Frequency Identification User Satisfaction in Malaysian University Libraries
Authors: Noudoostbeni Ali , Kaur Kiran , Jenatabadi Hashem Salarzadeh
Published: July 2018

This paper focuses on the application of mathematical theories in the study of information system (IS) success factors. The main objective is to apply Delone and McLean’s IS success model for radio-frequency identification (RFID) sustainability in Malaysian university libraries. Two approaches are applied to estimate user satisfaction, such as the Bayesian and maximum likelihood estimation approaches. In order to identify the best approach, four mathematical indices are used, namely root mean squared error, absolute error, mean absolute percentage error, and the coefficient of determination. The results reveal that Bayesian estimation provides good fit to the data, unlike the model with the maximum likelihood estimator. This study addresses the causes for this difference between the two approaches, as well as the potential merits and shortcomings of the maximum likelihood approach. The current study presents a novel and practical modeling and prediction concept for researchers and experts in the field of computer science.
System Dynamics Analysis of Evolutionary Game Strategies between the Government and Investors Based on New Energy Power Construction Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) Project
Authors: Gao Lei , Zhao Zhen-Yu
Published: July 2018

The public-private-partnership (PPP) is a new mode for the government and social capital to jointly invest in public infrastructure projects. In particular, PPP projects for new energy power construction have been strongly supported in some countries in recent years, because it can not only reduce financial pressure on the government, but also promote the development of new energy. Current scholars study the economic benefits of PPP projects for new energy power construction from a macro perspective, and they rarely study behavioral strategies of the government and social capital as a game process of project construction from a micro perspective. This paper will fill this gap. This study firstly built an evolutionary game model of the government and investors based on new energy power construction PPP projects. Secondly, taking China’s typical new energy power construction PPP project–waste incineration power generation as an example, the system dynamics (SD) model was proposed to simulate the evolutionary process of game players’ behavioral strategies. Finally, the effects of key factors in the construction of PPP project on the strategies’ stability were studied. The results show that: (1) there is no evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) in the game system between the government and investors, and system evolution is characterized by periodic behavior. (2) When the government implements dynamic bounty measures, the system evolution process is still a closed loop with periodic motion. However, when the government implements dynamic punishment measures, there is a stable ESS in the hybrid strategy of the game system. (3) The government can increase unit fines when making dynamic strategic adjustments, which will not only promote the active cooperation of investors, but also reduce the probability of government supervision, thereby reducing costs.
The Impact of Climate Change on Swiss Hydropower
Authors: Savelsberg Jonas , Schillinger Moritz , Schlecht Ingmar , Weigt Hannes
Published: July 2018

Hydropower represents an important pillar of electricity systems in many countries. It not only plays an important role in mitigating climate change, but is also subject to climate-change impacts. In this paper, we use the Swiss electricity market model Swissmod to study the effects of changes in water availability due to climate change on Swiss hydropower. Swissmod is an electricity dispatch model with a plant-level representation of 96% of Swiss hydropower plants and their interrelations within cascade structures. Using this detailed model in combination with spatially disaggregated climate-change runoff projections for Switzerland, we show that climate change has ambiguous impacts on hydropower and on the overall electricity system. Electricity prices and overall system costs increase under dry conditions and decrease under average or wet conditions. While the change of seasonal patterns, with a shift to higher winter runoff, has positive impacts, the overall yearly inflow varies under hydrological conditions. While average and wet years yield an increase in inflows and revenues, dry years become drier, resulting in the opposite effect. Even though different in magnitude, the direction of impacts persists when applying the same changes in inflows to the 2050 electricity system.
A Systematic Literature Review for Better Understanding of Lean Driven Sustainability
Authors: Tasdemir Cagatay , Gazo Rado
Published: July 2018

Global trends and factors, such as the increased level of globalization, climate change, resource scarcity, and awareness of social and environmental responsibilities, as well as fiercer competition and lower profit margins in all industries, force organizations to act to retain, regain, or sustain their competitive advantages for long-term survival. These trends and factors are historically known to bring about innovations that drive the evolution of industries. Sustainability is considered to be such an innovation to achieve fiscally sound, environmentally conscious, and socially progressive organizations and supply chains. This study reviewed 477 past articles published in five major databases from 1990 to 2018. The purpose of the study was to assess the current state-of-the art in the subject of lean-driven sustainability. Based on the exhaustive descriptive and contextual analysis, synergies, divergences, and the extent of two-way permeability of lean and sustainability concepts from the perspective of intra- and inter-organizational operations were identified along with future research opportunities. Fundamental strengths and weaknesses of both concepts, existing strong synergies and untapped potential, along with their key contributors, the potential-use cases of lean tools to derive sustainable solutions are highlighted in this review.
Botulinum Toxin for the Treatment of Hand Tremor
Authors: Niemann Nicki , Jankovic Joseph
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study is to review our longitudinal experience with onabotulinumtoxinA (onaBoNT-A) injections for medically refractory hand tremor. We performed a retrospective review of our database of patients treated with onaBoNT-A for hand tremor evaluated between 2010 and 2018 in at least 2 sessions with follow-up. The majority were injected into the forearm flexors (FF), although treatment was individualized. During the specified period, 91 patients (53 essential tremor, 31 dystonic tremor, 6 Parkinson’s disease tremor, and 1 cerebellar outflow tremor) met our inclusion criteria. The mean age (SD) was 64.8 years (12.8), and mean duration of follow-up was 29.6 months (25.1) with mean of 7.7 (6.3) treatment visits. FF were injected in 89 (97.8%) patients, exclusively in 74 (81.3%), and 15 (16.5%) were injected in FF and other muscles. EMG guidance was used in 5 patients (5.5%). On a 0–4 “peak effect” rating scale (0 = no effect, 4 = marked improvement in severity and function), 80.2% and 85.7% of patients reported moderate or marked improvement (score 3 or 4) at their first and last follow-up visit, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the outcomes between first and last visit: average “peak effect” rating score (3.2 versus 3.4), “global” rating score (3.0 versus 3.2), latency of response (4.5 versus 3.8 days), and total duration of response (12.7 versus 12.8 weeks), except onaBoNT-A dose (65.0 versus 78.6 U/limb, p = 0.002). Of 1095 limb injections, there were 134 (12.2%) non-disabling and transient (mean 36 days) adverse events (132 limb weakness, 2 pain). OnaBoNT-A injections are safe and effective in the treatment of hand tremor.
Peri-Urban Dynamics in Murcia Region (SE Spain): The Successful Case of the Altorreal Complex
Authors: Giménez García Rubén , García Marín Ramón , Serrano Martínez José María , Pulido Fernández Manuel
Published: July 2018

The spatial pattern of the urban development recently experienced by large urban areas is significantly changing the traditional city model based on its compactness. It is generating new forms of urban organization that imply morphological, territorial, social, and functional changes. We analyzed the spatial impact generated by the construction of the Altorreal resort in the Murcia region and its effects on the local population (e.g. number of inhabitants). The results obtained highlight the importance of this resort in terms of space and population compared with other neighborhoods of the city.
Performance Evaluation of Small Sized Powdered Ferric Hydroxide as Arsenic Adsorbent
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Katsoyiannis Ioannis , Mitrakas Manassis , Zouboulis Anastasios , Ernst Mathias
Published: July 2018

The small sized powdered ferric oxy-hydroxide, termed Dust Ferric Hydroxide (DFH), was applied in batch adsorption experiments to remove arsenic species from water. The DFH was characterized in terms of zero point charge, zeta potential, surface charge density, particle size and moisture content. Batch adsorption isotherm experiments indicated that the Freundlich model described the isothermal adsorption behavior of arsenic species notably well. The results indicated that the adsorption capacity of DFH in deionized ultrapure water, applying a residual equilibrium concentration of 10 µg/L at the equilibrium pH value of 7.9 ± 0.1, with a contact time of 96 h (i.e., Q10), was 6.9 and 3.5 µg/mg for As(V) and As(III), respectively, whereas the measured adsorption capacity of the conventionally used Granular Ferric Hydroxide (GFH), under similar conditions, was found to be 2.1 and 1.4 µg/mg for As(V) and As(III), respectively. Furthermore, the adsorption of arsenic species onto DFH in a Hamburg tap water matrix, as well as in an NSF challenge water matrix, was found to be significantly lower. The lowest recorded adsorption capacity at the same equilibrium concentration was 3.2 µg As(V)/mg and 1.1 µg As(III)/mg for the NSF water. Batch adsorption kinetics experiments were also conducted to study the impact of a water matrix on the behavior of removal kinetics for As(V) and As(III) species by DFH, and the respective data were best fitted to the second order kinetic model. The outcomes of this study confirm that the small sized iron oxide-based material, being a by-product of the production process of GFH adsorbent, has significant potential to be used for the adsorptive removal of arsenic species from water, especially when this material can be combined with the subsequent application of low-pressure membrane filtration/separation in a hybrid water treatment process.
Estimating Distance from Parallaxes. IV. Distances to 1.33 Billion Stars in Gaia Data Release 2
Authors: Bailer-Jones C. A. L. , Rybizki J. , Fouesneau M. , Mantelet G. , Andrae R.
Published: July 2018

For the vast majority of stars in the secondGaiadata release, reliable distances cannot be obtained by inverting the parallax. A correct inference procedure must instead be used to account for the nonlinearity of the transformation and the asymmetry of the resulting probability distribution. Here, we infer distances to essentially all 1.33 billion stars with parallaxes published in the secondGaiadata release. This is done using a weak distance prior that varies smoothly as a function of Galactic longitude and latitude according to a Galaxy model. The irreducible uncertainty in the distance estimate is characterized by the lower and upper bounds of an asymmetric confidence interval. Although more precise distances can be estimated for a subset of the stars using additional data (such as photometry), our goal is to provide purely geometric distance estimates, independent of assumptions about the physical properties of, or interstellar extinction toward, individual stars. We analyze the characteristics of the catalog and validate it using clusters. The catalog can be queried using ADQL athttp://gaia.ari.uni-heidelberg.de/tap.html(which also hosts theGaiacatalog) and downloaded fromhttp://www.mpia.de/~calj/gdr2_distances.html.
The Hawaii Infrared Parallax Program. III. 2MASS J0249–0557 c: A Wide Planetary-mass Companion to a Low-mass Binary in the β Pic Moving Group*

†
Authors: Dupuy Trent J. , Liu Michael C. , Allers Katelyn N. , Biller Beth A. , Kratter Kaitlin M. , Mann Andrew W. , Shkolnik Evgenya L. , Kraus Adam L. , Best William M. J.
Published: July 2018

We have discovered a wide planetary-mass companion to the β Pic moving group member 2MASS J02495639−0557352 (M6 vl-g) using Canada–France–Hawaii Telescope/WIRCam astrometry from the Hawaii Infrared Parallax Program. In addition, Keck laser guide star adaptive optics aperture-masking interferometry shows that the host is itself a tight binary. Altogether, 2MASS J0249−0557ABc is a bound triple system with an

object separated by 1950 ± 200 au (40″) from a relatively close (2.17 ± 0.22 au, 0.″04) pair of

and

 objects. 2MASS J0249−0557AB is one of the few ultracool binaries to be discovered in a young moving group and the first confirmed in the β Pic moving group (22 ± 6 Myr). The mass, absolute magnitudes, and spectral type of 2MASS J0249−0557 c (L2 vl-g) are remarkably similar to those of the planet β Pic b (L2,

). We also find that the free-floating object 2MASS J2208+2921 (L3 vl-g) is another possible β Pic moving group member with colors and absolute magnitudes similar to β Pic b and 2MASS J0249−0557 c. β Pic b is the first directly imaged planet to have a “twin,” namely an object of comparable properties in the same stellar association. Such directly imaged objects provide a unique opportunity to measure atmospheric composition, variability, and rotation across different pathways of assembling planetary-mass objects from the same natal material.
HESS J1943+213: An Extreme Blazar Shining through the Galactic Plane
Authors: Archer A. , Benbow W. , Bird R. , Brose R. , Buchovecky M. , Bugaev V. , Cui W. , Daniel M. K. , Falcone A. , Feng Q. , Finley J. P. , Flinders A. , Fortson L. , Furniss A. , Gillanders G. H. , Hütten M. , Hanna D. , Hervet O. , Holder J. , Hughes G. , Humensky T. B. , Johnson C. A. , Kaaret P. , Kar P. , Kelley-Hoskins N. , Kieda D. , Krause M. , Krennrich F. , Kumar S. , Lang M. J. , Lin T. T. Y. , McArthur S. , Moriarty P. , Mukherjee R. , Nieto D. , O’Brien S. , Ong R. A. , Otte A. N. , Park N. , Petrashyk A. , Pohl M. , Popkow A. , Pueschel E. , Quinn J. , Ragan K. , Reynolds P. T. , Richards G. T. , Roache E. , Rulten C. , Sadeh I. , Sembroski G. H. , Shahinyan K. , Tyler J. , Wakely S. P. , Weiner O. M. , Weinstein A. , Wells R. M. , Wilcox P. , Wilhelm A. , Williams D. A. ,   The VERITAS Collaboration, Brisken W. F. , Pontrelli P.
Published: July 2018

HESS J1943+213 is a very high energy (VHE; >100 GeV) γ-ray source in the direction of the Galactic plane. Studies exploring the classification of the source are converging toward its identification as an extreme synchrotron BL Lac object. Here we present 38 hr of VERITAS observations of HESS J1943+213 taken over 2 yr. The source is detected with a significance of ∼20 standard deviations, showing a remarkably stable flux and spectrum in VHE γ-rays. Multifrequency Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) observations of the source confirm the extended, jet-like structure previously found in the 1.6 GHz band with the European VLBI Network and detect this component in the 4.6 and 7.3 GHz bands. The radio spectral indices of the core and the jet and the level of polarization derived from the VLBA observations are in a range typical for blazars. Data from VERITAS, Fermi-LAT, Swift-XRT, the FLWO 48″ telescope, and archival infrared and hard X-ray observations are used to construct and model the spectral energy distribution (SED) of the source with a synchrotron self-Compton model. The well-measured γ-ray peak of the SED with VERITAS and Fermi-LAT provides constraining upper limits on the source redshift. Possible contribution of secondary γ-rays from ultra-high-energy cosmic-ray-initiated electromagnetic cascades to the γ-ray emission is explored, finding that only a segment of the VHE spectrum can be accommodated with this process. A variability search is performed across X-ray and γ-ray bands. No statistically significant flux or spectral variability is detected.
Evolution and Photoevaporation of Protoplanetary Disks in Clusters with Hot Background Temperatures
Authors: Liu Xia , Xiao Lin , Jin Liping
Published: July 2018

We explore the influence of hot background temperatures in stellar clusters on the formation and evolution of photoevaporating disks. The disk forms from the gravitational collapse of a pre-stellar core. For a core with a relatively high temperature (>40 K), the angular momentum of the core is expected to be low. In the core-collapse stage, most of core mass directly falls onto the central star or the disk near the star. External photoevaporation is ineffective in this environment. The viscosity in the disk dominates its evolution, which leads to a high efficiency of the mass and angular momentum transports. The disk properties are determined by the core properties. In the vicinity of massive stars with strong external FUV fields, the disk can still survive when the background temperature is high (∼100 K). We suggest that the diversity of the molecular cloud core properties may lead to the diverse properties of the disk photoevaporation in clusters. We also consistently interpret the findings in NGC 1333 that low-mass disks (0.002–0.004 M
☉) can exist in such young clusters (1–2 × 106 yr) with mild external photoevaporation.
Assembling the Milky Way Bulge from Globular Clusters: Evidence from the Double Red Clump
Authors: Lee Young-Wook , Hong Seungsoo , Lim Dongwook , Chung Chul , Jang Sohee , Kim Jenny J. , Joo Seok-Joo
Published: July 2018

Two red clumps (RCs) observed in the color–magnitude diagram of the Milky Way bulge are widely accepted as evidence for an X-shaped structure that originated from the bar instability. A drastically different interpretation has been suggested, however, based on the He-enhanced multiple stellar population phenomenon as is observed in globular clusters (GCs). Because these two scenarios imply very different pictures of the formation of the bulge and elliptical galaxies, understanding the origin of the double RC is of crucial importance. Here we report our discovery that the stars in the two RCs show a significant (>5.3σ) difference in CN-band strength, in stark contrast to that expected in the X-shaped bulge scenario. The difference in CN abundance and the population ratio between the two RCs are comparable to those observed in GCs between the first- and later-generation stars. Because CN-strong stars trace a population with enhanced N, Na, and He abundances that originated in GCs, this is direct evidence that the double RC is due to the multiple population phenomenon, and that a significant population of stars in the Milky Way bulge were assembled from disrupted proto-GCs. Our result also calls for the major revision of the 3D structure of the Milky Way bulge, given that the current view is based on the previous interpretation of the double RC phenomenon.
PSR J0636+5128: A Heated Companion in a Tight Orbit
Authors: Draghis Paul , Romani Roger W.
Published: July 2018

We present an analysis of archival Gemini g′, r′, K and Keck H, K

s
imaging of this nearby short-period binary (P

B
= 95.8 minutes) 2.87 ms pulsar. The heated companion is clearly detected. Direct pulsar heating provides an acceptable model at the revised >700 pc parallax distance. The relatively shallow light curve modulation prefers an inclination i < 40°; this high-latitude view provides a likely explanation for the lack of radio signatures of wind dispersion or eclipse. It also explains the low minimum companion mass and, possibly, the faintness of the source in X-rays and γ-rays.
Antiviral effects of Cacicol®, a heparan sulfate biomimetic for corneal regeneration therapy, for herpes simplex virus type-1 and varicella zoster virus infection
Authors: Deback Claire , Rousseau Antoine , Breckler Magali , Molet Lucie , Boutolleau David , Burrel Sonia , Roque-Afonso Anne-Marie , Labetoulle Marc
Published: July 2018

Background

Cacicol®, a topical eye biopolymer containing a poly-carboxymethylglucose sulfate solution that is a regenerating matrix therapy agent, intended for wound healing of persistent corneal epithelial defects. Based on the chemical composition, we hypothesized that Cacicol® may compete with natural heparan sulfate (HS) which initiates cell surface attachment of herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), varicella zoster virus (VZV) and human adenovirus (HAdV), three viruses associated with corneal infections.

Methods

Cacicol® was compared to vehicle in the following viral strains: HSV-1 SC16 strain and HSV-1 PSLR, a clinical isolate highly resistant to acyclovir and foscarnet; VZV ATH and VZV FLO, two VZV clinical isolates; and HAdV-D37 strain. Viruses in Cacicol® or vehicle were added to cells for 1 h during adsorption then viral replication was assessed by plaque reduction assays on Vero cells for HSV-1 and MeWo cells for VZV and by immunostaining assay on Hep-2 cells for HAdV-D37.

Results

The vehicle had no effect, dose-dependent effects were demonstrated when HSV-1 SC16, HSV-1 PSLR, VZV ATH and VZV FLO were inoculated in the presence of Cacicol®, inhibiting viral replication by 98.4%, 98.9%, 90.1% and 89.0%, respectively. Cacicol® had no antiviral effect against HAdV-D37.

Conclusions

Cacicol® has a significant antiviral activity on HSV-1 and VZV, but not on HAdV-D37. The lack of effect on HAdV is probably because it is less dependent on HS interactions for cell entry. Clinical studies are necessary to determine Cacicol® for an adjunct or alternative therapy of corneal HSV-1 or VZV infection, particularly for the management of antiviral resistant HSV-1.
Development of AlGaN/GaN/SiC high-electron-mobility transistors for THz detection
Authors: Jakštas Vytautas , Jorudas Justinas , Janonis Vytautas , Minkevičius Linas , Kašalynas Irmantas , Prystawko Paweł , Leszczynski Michał
Published: July 2018

This paper reports on the AlGaN/GaN Schottky diodes (SDs) and high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) grown on a semi-insulating SiC substrate. The electronic devices demonstrate an improved performance in comparison with the ones processed on a sapphire substrate. Both the SDs and HEMTs show much smaller leakage current density and a higher ION/IOFF ratio, reaching values down to 3.0±1.2 mA/cm2 and up to 70 dB under the reverse electric field of 340 kV/cm, respectively. The higher thermal conductivity of the SiC substrate leads to the increase of steady current and transconductance, and better thermal management of the HEMT devices. In addition, a successful detection of terahertz (THz) waves with the AlGaN/GaN HEMT is demonstrated at room temperature. These results open further routes for the optimization of THz designs which may result in development of novel plasmonic THz devices.