bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of New Bivalent Agents as Melatonin- and Histamine H3-Ligands
Authors: Pala Daniele , Scalvini Laura , Lodola Alessio , Mor Marco , Flammini Lisa , Barocelli Elisabetta , Lucini Valeria , Scaglione Francesco , Bartolucci Silvia , Bedini Annalida , Rivara Silvia , Spadoni Gilberto
Published: September 2014

Melatonin is an endogenous molecule involved in many pathophysiological processes. In addition to the control of circadian rhythms, its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties have been widely described. Thus far, different bivalent compounds composed by a melatonin molecule linked to another neuroprotective agent were synthesized and tested for their ability to block neurodegenerative processes in vitro and in vivo. To identify a novel class of potential neuroprotective compounds, we prepared a series of bivalent ligands, in which a prototypic melatonergic ligand is connected to an imidazole-based H3 receptor antagonist through a flexible linker. Four imidazolyl-alkyloxy-anilinoethylamide derivatives, characterized by linkers of different length, were synthesized and their binding affinity for human MT1, MT2 and H3 receptor subtypes was evaluated. Among the tested compounds, 14c and 14d, bearing a pentyl and a hexyl linker, respectively, were able to bind to all receptor subtypes at micromolar concentrations and represent the first bivalent melatonergic/histaminergic ligands reported so far. These preliminary results, based on binding affinity evaluation, pave the way for the future development of new dual-acting compounds targeting both melatonin and histamine receptors, which could represent promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative pathologies.
Identification of Apolipoprotein C-I as a Potential Wilms’ Tumor Marker after Excluding Inflammatory Factors
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Guo Fei , Wang Lei , Zhao Wei , Zhang Da , Yang Heying , Yu Jiekai , Niu Lili , Yang Fuquan , Zheng Shu , Wang Jiaxiang
Published: September 2014

Wilms’ tumor is one of the most common malignant tumors observed in children, and its early diagnosis is important for late-stage treatment and prognosis. We previously screened and identified protein markers for Wilms’ tumor; however, these markers lacked specificity, and some were associated with inflammation. In the current study, serum samples from children with Wilms’ tumors were compared with those of healthy controls and patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). After exclusion of factors associated with inflammation, specific protein markers for Wilms’ tumors were identified. After comparing the protein peak values obtained from all three groups, a protein with a m/z of 6438 Da was specified. Purification and identification of the target protein using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and two-dimensional liquid chromatography-linearion trap mass spectrometry(2D-LC-LTQ-MS) mass spectrometry, respectively, revealed that it was apolipoprotein C-I (APO C-I). Thus, APO C-I is a specific protein marker for Wilms’ tumor.
Analysis of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Abilities of Extracts from Germinating Vitis californica Seeds Submitted to Cold Stress Conditions and Recovery after the Stress
Authors: Weidner Stanisław , Chrzanowski Sebastian , Karamać Magdalena , Król Angelika , Badowiec Anna , Mostek Agnieszka , Amarowicz Ryszard
Published: September 2014

The material for this study consisted of stratified seeds of Vitis californica submitted to germination under optimum conditions (+25 °C) or under chill stress (+10 °C), also followed by recovery. It has been determined that the germinating seeds contain considerable amounts of tannins, catechins as well as phenolic acids such as gallic, p-coumaric, caffeic and ferulic acids. Gallic acid appeared in the highest amount in the germinating seeds (from 42.40–204.00 µg/g of fresh weight (FW)), followed by caffeic acid (from 6.62–20.13 µg/g FW), p-coumaric acid (from 2.59–5.41 µg/g FW), and ferulic acid (from 0.56–0.92 µg/g FW). The phenolic acids occurred mostly in the ester form. Under chill stress, the germinating seeds were determined to contain an elevated total amount of phenolics, as well as raised levels of condensed tannins, catechins, gallic acid, and gafeic acid. The levels of p-coumoric and ferulic acids were found to have decreased. In extracts isolated from a sample exposed to low temperature, increased antioxidant activity and reduction potential were also demonstrated. Tissue of the germinating seeds which underwent post-stress recovery was found to have less total phenolics.
39 fJ/bit On-Chip Identification ofWireless Sensors Based on Manufacturing Variation
Authors: Bolus Jonathan , Calhoun Benton , Blalock Travis
Published: September 2014

A 39 fJ/bit IC identification system based on FET mismatch is presented and implemented in a 130 nm CMOS process. ID bits are generated based on the ΔVT between identically drawn NMOS devices due to manufacturing variation, and the ID cell structure allows for the characterization of ID bit reliability by characterizing ΔVT . An addressing scheme is also presented that allows for reliable on-chip identification of ICs in the presence of unreliable ID bits. An example implementation is presented that can address 1000 unique ICs, composed of 31 ID bits and having an error rate less than 10-6, with up to 21 unreliable bits.
CARI III Inhibits Tumor Growth in a Melanoma-Bearing Mouse Model through Induction of G0/G1 Cell Cycle Arrest
Authors: Park Hye-Jin
Published: September 2014

Mushroom-derived natural products have been used to prevent or treat cancer for millennia. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer effects of CARI (Cell Activation Research Institute) III, which consists of a blend of mushroom mycelia from Phellinus linteus grown on germinated brown rice, Inonotus obliquus grown on germinated brown rice, Antrodia camphorata grown on germinated brown rice and Ganoderma lucidum. Here, we showed that CARI III exerted anti-cancer activity, which is comparable to Dox against melanoma in vivo. B16F10 cells were intraperitoneally injected into C57BL6 mice to develop solid intra-abdominal tumors. Three hundred milligrams of the CARI III/kg/day p.o. regimen reduced tumor weight, comparable to the doxorubicin (Dox)-treated group. An increase in life span (ILS% = 50.88%) was observed in the CARI III-administered group, compared to the tumor control group. CARI III demonstrates anti-proliferative activity against B16F10 melanoma cells through inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. CARI III inhibits the expression of cyclin D1, CDK4 and CDK2 and induces p21. Therefore, CARI III could be a potential chemopreventive supplement to melanoma patients.
Identification, Characterization, and Immobilization of an Organic Solvent-Stable Alkaline Hydrolase (PA27) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa MH38
Authors: Jang Eunjin , Ryu Bum , Kim Thomas
Published: September 2014

An organic solvent-stable alkaline hydrolase (PA27) from Pseudomonas aeruginosa MH38 was expressed, characterized, and immobilized for biotechnological applications. Recombinant PA27 was expressed in Escherichia coli as a 27 kDa soluble protein and was purified by standard procedures. PA27 was found to be stable at pH 8–11 and below 50 °C. It maintained more than 80% of its activity under alkaline conditions (pH 8.0–11.0). Furthermore, PA27 exhibited remarkable stability in benzene and n-hexane at concentrations of 30% and 50%. Based on these properties, immobilization of PA27 for biotechnological applications was explored. Scanning electron microscopy revealed a very smooth spherical structure with numerous large pores. Interestingly, immobilized PA27 displayed improved thermal/chemical stabilities and high reusability. Specifically, immobilized PA27 has improved thermal stability, maintaining over 90% of initial activity after 1 h of incubation at 80 °C, whereas free PA27 had only 35% residual activity. Furthermore, immobilized PA27 showed higher residual activity than the free enzyme biocatalysts against detergents, urea, and phenol. Immobilized PA27 could be recycled 20 times with retention of ~60% of its initial activity. Furthermore, macroscopic hydrogel formation of PA27 was also investigated. These characteristics make PA27 a great candidate for an industrial biocatalyst with potential applications.
Fatty Acid Status and Its Relationship to Cognitive Decline and Homocysteine Levels in the Elderly
Authors: Baierle Marília , Vencato Patrícia , Oldenburg Luiza , Bordignon Suelen , Zibetti Murilo , Trentini Clarissa , Duarte Marta , Veit Juliana , Somacal Sabrina , Emanuelli Tatiana , Grune Tilman , Breusing Nicolle , Garcia Solange
Published: September 2014

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially the n-3 series, are known for their protective effects. Considering that cardiovascular diseases are risk factors for dementia, which is common at aging, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether fatty acid status in the elderly was associated with cognitive function and cardiovascular risk. Forty-five elderly persons (age ≥60 years) were included and divided into two groups based on their Mini-Mental Status Examination score adjusted for educational level: the case group (n = 12) and the control group (n = 33). Serum fatty acid composition, homocysteine (Hcy), hs-CRP, lipid profile and different cognitive domains were evaluated. The case group, characterized by reduced cognitive performance, showed higher levels of 14:0, 16:0, 16:1n-7 fatty acids and lower levels of 22:0, 24:1n-9, 22:6n-3 (DHA) and total PUFAs compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The n-6/n-3 ratio was elevated in both study groups, whereas alterations in Hcy, hs-CRP and lipid profile were observed in the case group. Cognitive function was positively associated with the 24:1n-9, DHA and total n-3 PUFAs, while 14:0, 16:0 and 16:1n-7 fatty acids, the n-6/n-3 ratio and Hcy were inversely associated. In addition, n-3 PUFAs, particularly DHA, were inversely associated with cardiovascular risk, assessed by Hcy levels in the elderly.
Preliminary Design and Evaluation of a B-Scan OCT-Guided Needle
Authors: Joos Karen , Shen Jin-Hui
Published: September 2014

Real-time intraoperative B-scan optical coherence tomography (OCT) visualization of intraocular tissues is a desired ophthalmic feature during retinal procedures. A novel intraocular 25-gauge B-mode forward-imaging OCT probe was combined with a 36-gauge needle into a prototype instrument. Imaging of the needle tip itself and the effects of saline injection into a gelatin phantom were performed. A combined B-scan forward-imaging OCT-needle prototype was capable of real-time-imaging of saline injection into a gelatin phantom. Additional future miniaturization may permit this instrument to be an adjunctive real-time imaging and procedure tool for vitreoretinal surgery.
Various On-Chip Sensors with Microfluidics for Biological Applications
Authors: Lee Hun , Xu Linfeng , Koh Domin , Nyayapathi Nikhila , Oh Kwang
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we review recent advances in on-chip sensors integrated with microfluidics for biological applications. Since the 1990s, much research has concentrated on developing a sensing system using optical phenomena such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) to improve the sensitivity of the device. The sensing performance can be significantly enhanced with the use of microfluidic chips to provide effective liquid manipulation and greater flexibility. We describe an optical image sensor with a simpler platform for better performance over a larger field of view (FOV) and greater depth of field (DOF). As a new trend, we review consumer electronics such as smart phones, tablets, Google glasses, etc. which are being incorporated in point-of-care (POC) testing systems. In addition, we discuss in detail the current optical sensing system integrated with a microfluidic chip.
Gait Characteristic Analysis and Identification Based on the iPhone’s Accelerometer and Gyrometer
Authors: Sun Bing , Wang Yang , Banda Jacob
Published: September 2014

Gait identification is a valuable approach to identify humans at a distance. In thispaper, gait characteristics are analyzed based on an iPhone’s accelerometer and gyrometer,and a new approach is proposed for gait identification. Specifically, gait datasets are collectedby the triaxial accelerometer and gyrometer embedded in an iPhone. Then, the datasets areprocessed to extract gait characteristic parameters which include gait frequency, symmetrycoefficient, dynamic range and similarity coefficient of characteristic curves. Finally, aweighted voting scheme dependent upon the gait characteristic parameters is proposed forgait identification. Four experiments are implemented to validate the proposed scheme. Theattitude and acceleration solutions are verified by simulation. Then the gait characteristicsare analyzed by comparing two sets of actual data, and the performance of the weightedvoting identification scheme is verified by 40 datasets of 10 subjects.
An Efficient Moving Target Detection Algorithm Based on Sparsity-Aware Spectrum Estimation
Authors: Shen Mingwei , Wang Jie , Wu Di , Zhu Daiyin
Published: September 2014

In this paper, an efficient direct data domain space-time adaptive processing (STAP) algorithm for moving targets detection is proposed, which is achieved based on the distinct spectrum features of clutter and target signals in the angle-Doppler domain. To reduce the computational complexity, the high-resolution angle-Doppler spectrum is obtained by finding the sparsest coefficients in the angle domain using the reduced-dimension data within each Doppler bin. Moreover, we will then present a knowledge-aided block-size detection algorithm that can discriminate between the moving targets and the clutter based on the extracted spectrum features. The feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method are validated through both numerical simulations and raw data processing results.
Eco-Industrial Parks from Strategic Niches to Development Mainstream: The Cases of China
Authors: Shi Lei , Yu Bing
Published: September 2014

China has implemented eco-industrial park (EIP) initiatives as a mainstream strategy of a circular economy since the turn of the new century. This paper presents the sustainable transition processes and outcomes of three EIP cases, Tianjin Economic and Technological Development Area (TEDA), Fuzhou Economic and Technological Development Area (FEDA) and the Xi’an High-Tech Zone (XHTZ). The cases uncovered four factors key to the transition of EIPs: technological trajectory dependency, spaces for experimentation, government as an enabler and regional embeddedness.
Arthroscopy of the normal cadaveric ovine femorotibial joint: a systematic approach to the cranial and caudal compartments
Authors: Mansmann K. A. , Schaer T. P. , Modesto R. B.
Published: September 2014

Objectives: Preclinical studies using large animal models play an intergral part in translational research. For this study, our objectives were: to develop and validate arthroscopic approaches to four compartments of the stifle joint as determined via the gross and arthroscopic anatomy of the cranial and caudal aspects of the joint.

Methods: Cadaveric hindlimbs (n = 39) were harvested from mature ewes. The anatomy was examined by tissue dissection (n = 6), transverse sections (n = 4), and computed tomography (n = 4). The joint was arthroscopically explored in 25 hindlimbs.

Results: A cranio-medial portal was created medial to the patellar ligament. The craniolateral portal was made medial to the extensor digitorum longus tendon. The medial femoral condyle was visible, as well as the cranial cruciate ligament, caudal cruciate ligament and both menisci with the inter-meniscal ligament. Valgus stress improved visibility of the caudal horn of the medial meniscus and tibial plateau. To explore the caudal compartments, a portal was created 1 cm proximal to the most caudal aspect of the tibial condyle. Both femoral condyles, menisci, caudal cruciate ligament, the popliteal tendon and the menisco-femoral ligament were visible. The common peroneal nerve and popliteal artery and vein are vulnerable structures to injury during arthroscopy.

Clinical significance: The arthroscopic approach developed in this research is ideal to evaluate the ovine stifle joint.
Application of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in clinical diagnostic microbiology
Authors: De Carolis Elena , Vella Antonietta , Vaccaro Luisa , Torelli Riccardo , Spanu Teresa , Fiori Barbara , Posteraro Brunella , Sanguinetti Maurizio
Published: September 2014

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has recently emerged as a powerful technique for identification of microorganisms, changing the workflow of well-established laboratories so that its impact on microbiological diagnostics has been unparalleled. In comparison with conventional identification methods that rely on biochemical tests and require long incubation procedures, MALDI-TOF MS has the advantage of identifying bacteria and fungi directly from colonies grown on culture plates in a few minutes and with simple procedures. Numerous studies on different systems available demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of the method, and new frontiers have been explored besides microbial species level identification, such as direct identification of pathogens from positive blood cultures, subtyping, and drug susceptibility detection.
Tuberculous abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm with renal and vertebral tuberculosis: a case and literature review
Authors: Zhang Chao , Chen Bing , Gu Yongquan , Luo Tao , Yang Shengjia , Liang Weitao , Wang Zhonggao
Published: September 2014

Tuberculous pseudoaneurysm of the aorta is rare and exposes patients to a very high risk of unpredictable rupture. To our best knowledge, only 32 cases have been reported related to all arterial systems from 1993 to 2013 in the literature. We report a 44-year-old male who presented with an aortic pseudoaneurysm and tuberculosis of the kidney and vertebrae. He underwent endovascular repair and antibiotic therapy for tuberculosis, combined with a bare stent implanted to seal endoleaks after endograft stenting. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient recovered and lived well afterwards. Epidemiology, pathogenesis, presentation, management, and mortality of this entity were reviewed and discussed.
L'honneur : principe de prévention de la déviance ?
Authors: Julie Alev Dilmaç
Published: September 2014

De nombreuses études sociologiques et anthropologiques ont tenté de décrire l’importance de l’honneur dans différentes cultures. Or, ce principe semble toujours avoir été analysé à la lumière de son aspect violent et destructeur. Dans cet article, il s’agit de montrer que l’honneur, loin de ne représenter qu’un principe provoquant des conflits interpersonnels, peut aussi être considéré comme un régulateur des relations sociales. C’est à travers des données discursives récoltées lors d’un terrain effectué en Turquie avec de jeunes adultes que nous tenterons de montrer que ?eref, l’honneur en turc, peut constituer un frein à la déviance.
De la migration à la mobilité : comment aller au-delà du nationalisme méthodologique ?
Authors: Chavel Solange
Published: September 2014

Résumé L’objectif de la présente contribution est de croiser l’apport de deux types de travaux : (1) les travaux sur les migrations qui reposent sur la critique épistémologique du nationalisme méthodologique d’une part, (2) les travaux appartenant au paradigme du mobility turn d’autre part. L’enjeu est de montrer que, selon qu’on adopte le vocabulaire des « migrations » ou celui de la « mobilité », la formulation des problèmes normatifs varie de façon importante. Ce faisant, la critique du nationalisme méthodologique invite à délaisser les migrations studies pour raisonner dans le cadre des mobilities studies, et penser autrement la répartition des droits et bénéfices habituellement associés à la citoyenneté nationale.
Cosmopolitisme ou internationalisme méthodologique
Authors: Delpla Isabelle
Published: September 2014

Résumé Critiquer le nationalisme méthodologique c’est d’abord s’attaquer à un mythe de l’intériorité politique qui laisserait croire que c’est en soi et par soi que l’Etat se constitue indépendamment de l’étranger et des étrangers. Mettre en évidence les phénomènes transnationaux de mondialisation, à l’instar du cosmopolitisme méthodologique, contribue à contrer de telles illusions solipsistes. Toutefois, la critique du nationalisme méthodologique est insuffisante lorsqu’elle reconduit un tel mythe par une ignorance ou une négligence des normes de droit international. C’est manifeste dans les recherches sur les migrations de populations. Coupant à travers nationalisme et cosmopolitisme méthodologique, cet article propose donc un internationalisme méthodologique qui, contre ce mythe de l’intériorité, prend en compte l’immanence de l’international dans le national. Cette proposition méthodologique, ici limitée à sa dimension critique du nationalisme méthodologique, est ensuite développée en une expérience de pensée montrant la possible coextensivité du national avec l’international et les relations étrangères. La critique du nationalisme méthodologique est donc d’autant plus pertinente et efficace qu’elle envisage la constitution internationale des phénomènes étatiques.
Le travail scientifique à l'épreuve de la logistique gestionnaire
Authors: Flot Cecil
Published: September 2014

Une intervention de psychodynamique du travail dans une umr 2 française évaluée très performante par l’ Aeres 3 fournira le matériel clinique sur lequel s’appuie cet article. À partir de cette référence, il s’agira de montrer l’impact de l’avènement de la logique gestionnaire dans la science sur le travail, auquel participe une communauté de métiers, chercheurs, ingénieurs et techniciens notamment. Nous verrons que l’intérêt du travail de recherche est gravement atteint dans ces trois fonctions dans la mesure où les activités scientifiques individuelles comme collectives sont réduites au profit d’activités de gestion et de logistique.
Le corps ouvrier au travail
Authors: Pillon Thierry
Published: September 2014

Il est peu habituel de considérer le travail à partir du corps, et si les sciences sociales n’ont pas délaissé la question, elles l’ont rarement mis au centre de leurs réflexions. Il est en effet difficile de mettre à jour les expressions de la sensibilité, la nature des perceptions, les formes d’implications physiques. Pourtant, ces aspects du travail contribuent à en donner une image complexe, ambivalente, où se mêlent contrainte et liberté, soumission et créativité. Nous avons choisi de nous appuyer sur des récits, témoignages ou autobiographies d’ouvriers, publiés au cours du xx e siècle et jusqu’aux années 2000. Ces textes donnent à voir l’usage de la force, la fatigue, l’accident et les traces que laisse le travail sur le corps. Mais aussi la dextérité, l’habileté et les valeurs impliquées dans l’activité. Ces descriptions éclairent aussi les différences de genre, et témoignent de la place qu’a occupée le corps dans la reconnaissance du travail ouvrier au cours du xx e siècle.
Success Rate of Late Primary Probing in Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Authors: Rajabi Mohammad Taher , Abrishami Yalda , Hosseini Seyedeh Simindokht , Tabatabaee Syed Ziaeddin , Rajabi Mohammad Bagher , Hurwitz Jeffrey J.
Published: September 2014

Purpose:

To investigate the clinical outcomes of late primary probing in congenital nasolacrimal duct (NLD) obstruction.

Methods:

A prospective interventional study was designed to recruit children older than 24 months who presented with clinical manifestations of NLD obstruction since February 2008 to Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran. No prior surgical intervention for NLD obstruction was performed on these patients; they underwent probing of the nasolacrimal system and irrigation under general anesthesia by oculoplastic surgeons. The outcome of the procedure was assessed 2 to 3 months postoperatively. Data of the patients until February 2013 were considered for analysis.

Results:

The total number of patients during the 5-year study was 343. The total success rate considering all of the age groups was 75.8%. The success rate was 85% in those who were 2 to 3 years old, 63% in those who were 3 to 4 years old, and 50% in those who were 4 to 5 years old. In patients with chronic dacryocystitis with mucopurulent discharge, 83% had successful probing and irrigation. In patients with epiphora with no mucopurulent discharge, 59% had successful results with probing.

Conclusions:

In the cases of congenital NLD obstruction, primary probing before 2 years of age has a high success rate; there is a high overall success rate (75.8%) in the 2- to 5-years age group, but when older than 5 years, further procedures such as intubation and dacryocystorhinostomy would be needed because of the high failure rate of probing.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2014;51(6):360–362.]
Perivascular Exudates in Frosted Branch Angiitis
Authors: He Lingmin , Moshfeghi Darius M. , Wong Ira G.
Published: September 2014

Three cases of young, minimally symptomatic patients found to have vitritis and extensive perivenous vitreous exudates resembling frosted branch angiitis are presented. Optical coherence tomography showed that these exudates appear to be extravascated from the vasculature. The material persisted over 1 year on immunosuppressive therapy, suggesting that its resolution should not be a treatment end point. These cases add to our understanding of the spectrum of clinical findings in frosted branch angiitis.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2014;45:443–446.]
The Effect of Surface Area, Pore Volume, and Pore Size Distribution on the Modified Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Syuhaidah Rahmam , Norani Muti Mohamed , Sufian Suriati
Published: September 2014

Carbon Nanotubes (CNT) have emerged and gained great interest for research in many applications because of their unique specific characteristics such as having high porosity, high surface area and the existence of a wide spectrum of surface functional groups through chemical modification. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) is a type of CNT that comprises of multiple layers of concentric cylinders. The overall study of this research work is to modify MWCNT to become a good adsorbent that can adsorb CO2 at its optimum capacity. In order to make MWCNT as an efficient adsorbent, surface treatment on pristine MWCNT is necessary to overcome the hydrophobicity issue by the introduction of carboxyl group. Upon the surface treatment, functionalization of MWCNT with 3-Aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTS) was conducted to obtain the attachment of amine group that will assist MWCNT in adsorbing CO2. The surface treatment and functionalization process undergone by MWCNT changed the physical properties of MWCNT such as the surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution. These properties can be determined using surface area and pore analyzer (SAP). Sample that treated with the mixture of nitric and sulfuric acid (HNO3/H2SO4) and functionalized with APTS gives the lowest surface area (22.07 m2/g) and pore volume (0.06 cm3/g). The pore size distribution also decreases due to the most presence of functional group onto the surface of modified MWCNT. This research paper is focusing on the effect of surface area, pore volume, and pore size distribution on the modified MWCNT.
Ecotoxicity of Pyridinium Based Ionic Liquids: A Review
Authors: Mohamed Nehal Farouk , Abdul Mutalib Mohamed Ibrahim , Bustam Mohammad Azmi , Leveque Jean Marc , El-Harabawi Mohanad
Published: September 2014

Ionic Liquids (ILs) are an exciting class of compounds with unique properties that make them attractive for industrial applications. Pyridinium-based ILs have been used in many applications, such as organic synthesis, electrochemical applications, biocatalysis, and polymerization. Although intensive information and data regarding to the physical and thermodynamic properties of ILs have been reported and continuously published, only limited data with regards to the toxicity and ecotoxicity of ILs were reported. Toxicity tests are conducted against many aquatic organisms such as: Guppy fish, Gold fish, and Zebra fish, besides many different strains of Microorganisms such as: Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Salmonella typhi, and yet more research regarding the toxicity of ionic liquids is yet to be conducted to increase the toxicity profile for these valuable chemicals.
Screening of Microalgae for Antioxidant Activities, Carotenoids and Phenolic Contents
Authors: Ali Hamdy Elsayed Ahmed , Shanab Sanaa Mahmoud Metwally , Abo-State Mervat  Aly Mohamed , Shalaby Emad Ahmed Ahmed , Eldmerdash Usama , Abdullah Mohd Azmuddin
Published: September 2014

Ten different microalgal species were screened for their antioxidant activity using 2,2 ́-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay, both total phenolic and carotenoid contents were determined. The ethanolic extract of Oscillatoria sp. showed the highest antioxidant activity (69.1 %), while the green Chlorella sp. showed higher phenolic content (39.1 mg GAE g-1 dry wt.) and Scenedesmus obliquus recorded higher carotenoid content (3.73 mg L-1), than cyanobacterial species Microalgal biomass plays a great role as a potential source of natural antioxidants, not only due to the carotenoids but also the phenolic compounds.
Evaluation of Carbon Dioxide Adsorption on Malaysian Coals for Potential Sequestration
Authors: Abunowara Mustafa , Eldemerdash Usama , Awang Mariyamni , Mady Hassan
Published: September 2014

Adsorption experiments of carbon dioxide (CO2) were contacted on two coal samples from Sungai Buloh and Silantek mines in Malaysia. A fixed bed adsorption unit was used to determine CO2 adsorption capacity of the coal samples. The experiments were conducted at different pressure ranges (5-40 bar) and temperature at 25°C. The CO2 adsorption capacity of Silantek coal sample showed adsorption capacity of 4.178 mmol/g at 40 bars and 25 °C, which is higher than Sungai Buloh sample. Different adsorption isotherms were employed to examine the experimental results, Langmuir isotherm of Silantek coal sample illustrated better correlation than Freundlich isotherm for the same sample. In contrary, Freundlich isotherm of Sungai Buloh coal sample illustrated better fitting than Longmuir isotherm correlation for the same sample. This is related to the coal rank and moisture content and ash content.
Application of Minute-Bubble Technique to Reactive Crystallization of Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Wada Yoshinari , Takahari Hiroaki , Tamai Hiroaki , Matsumoto Masakazu , Onoe Kaoru
Published: September 2014

Minimizing bubble formation in gas-liquid system helps achieve the following: i) acceleration of mass transfer and reactive absorption with an increase in the gas-liquid interfacial area, ii) increase in the average residence time of the bubbles with a decrease in buoyancy, and iii) occurrence of interactions at the gas-liquid interface1,2). Thus, by increasing the residence time of bubbles in the liquid phase, a quasi-homogeneous gas-liquid system can be obtained. Furthermore, attention is focused around minute-bubble interface which is higher concentration field compared with bulk liquid, an increase in the yield of main product can be achieved by the variations in the local supersaturation, which acts as the driving force for crystallization.
Effect of Mn and Pb Promoters on the Performance of Cu/ZnO-Catalyst in CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol
Authors: Tasfy Sara Faiz Hanna , Mohd Zabidi Noor Asmawati , Shaharun Maizatul Shima , Subbarao Duvvuri
Published: September 2014

The influences of Mn or Pb promoters on the catalytic performance of Cu/ZnO-SBA-15 catalyst in the methanol synthesis from CO2 hydrogenation were studied. The catalytic performances of the prepared catalysts were investigated in a stirred high pressure reactor under conditions of T = 483K, P = 2.25 MPa, and H2:CO2 = 3:1 (volume ratio). The experimental results showed that the promoted catalysts exhibited higher catalytic performance. The Mn promoted catalyst resulted in 36% of CO2 conversion and 67% of methanol selectivity, whereas the unpromoted catalyst showed 26% of CO2 conversion and 58% of methanol selectivity.
Effect of Acetone on Physical Properties of PES Membrane
Authors: Ahmed Iqbal , Idris Ani , Khan Muhammad Saad , Chowdhury Sujan , Akhtar Junaid
Published: September 2014

In the present study, polyethersulfone (PES) dope solution were prepared from mixtures of two solvents containing dimethylformamide (DMF) as core solvent, and acetone as co-solvent (CS), deionized water was used as coagulant bath. The amount of PES was kept at 20 wt% and the weight ratios of acetone were varied 20-24 wt.% to DMF and the dope solutions were prepared under closed heating system Results revealed the complete miscibility of PES with the fixed mixture of acetone and DMF under atmospheric pressure. The relationships between degree of adsorption, relative water absorption, were investigated. The results revealed that the interaction of DMF and acetone is strongest when their mole ratio is unity, which exhibit the phenomenon of true cosolvency for PES membrane. Keywords: polyethersulfone, solvent mixture, characterization.
Solubility of CO2 in an Aqueous Ammonium Based Ionic Liquid
Authors: Safdar Rizwan , Omar Abdul Aziz , Ismail Lukman , Lal Bhajan
Published: September 2014

The aim of this research is to find out the potential usage of water miscible ammonium based ionic liquids (ILs) towards CO2 capture. To measure the solubility of CO2 in 55 wt. % aqueous solution of Tetra butyl ammonium hydroxide (TBAOH), the experiments were carried out using high pressure solubility cell. Solubilities were determined in the temperature range of (303.15 to 333.15) K by varying the pressure from (2 to 10) bar and are reported as loading capacity (mol CO2/mol TBAOH). The solubility of CO2 in this aqueous IL decreased with increasing temperature and increased with increasing pressure.
Identifying Thermal and pH Stability of Thiols Compound in Garlic Extract
Authors: Samsudin Sity Juaeiriah , Mansor Nurlidia , Sufian Suriati , Man Zakaria
Published: September 2014

Thiosulfinates are a major compound found in most allium plant. Garlic, an allium species shows its potential to inhibit microbial and enzyme activity. The usage of garlic is widely known especially in the agriculture field. Thiosulfinates are formed by reaction of alliinase enzyme from their respective S-alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxide after the crushing process of the garlic cloves. The stability of the garlic extract has been tested at variations of temperatures and pH values at different incubation time in terms of concentration (mM). After consecutive 4 hour incubation, thiols show higher concentration at temperature 30-35°C. The minimum concentration shows 22% reduction from the original thiols reading. Meanwhile, pH values of 2 (acidic) at 35°C gives higher thiols concentration compared to other conditions.
Effect of Column Height on Mass Transfer Characteristics of Spray Column
Authors: Shigenobu Yoshiya , Matsumura Yukihiko , Kitahara Hiroyuki
Published: September 2014

Desiccant dehumidification can reduce energy consumption of air conditioner. However, mass transfer of water from air to the desiccant is critical for efficiency. Mass transfer characteristics of spray column were experimentally studied, and some correlations were attempted.
A Review on Glassy Polymeric Membranes for Gas Separation
Authors: Farnam Marjan , Mukhtar Hilmi , Mohd Shariff Azmi
Published: September 2014

Polymeric membranes are widely used for gas separation purposes but their performance is restricted by the upper bound trade-off discovered by Robeson in 1991. The polymeric membrane can be glassy, rubbery or a blend of these two polymers. This review paper discusses the properties of glassy polymer membranes and their performance in gas separation. The area of improvement for glassy membrane with development of mixed matrix membrane is also highlighted.
Review on Pyrolysis of Hardwood Residue to Biofuel
Authors: Mazlan Mohammad Amir Firdaus , Uemura Yoshimitsu , Osman Norridah , Yusup Suzana
Published: September 2014

In Malaysia, approximately 7 million tonne/year of rubber wood waste and 5 million tonne/year of acacia wood waste were generated in 2011. These hardwood residues could be utilized to produce biofuel through pyrolysis process. The aims of the paper are to study the fluidized bed pyrolysis system, determine the properties of pyrolytic bio-oil, and highlight the effect of biomass type, size and pyrolysis temperature on pyrolytic products distribution.
Use of Waste Coconut Oil Obtained from Waste Water Pond of Coconut Milk Plant to Produce Biodiesel
Authors: Kaewruksa Pinuma , Punsuvon Vittaya
Published: September 2014

Waste coconut oil obtained from waste water pond contains high free fatty acid (FFA) which is not suitable to produce biodiesel via transesterification. The two steps of reaction (esterification and transesterification) were used to produce biodiesel from waste coconut oil. The result showed that FFA decreased from 92.95%wt to nearby 2%wt under the conditions of 80%vol of methanol to oil, 4%wt of hydrochloric acid and 4 h of reaction time in esterification step. In addition 95.34%wt conversion of fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) could be achieved in 1 h when 20%vol methanol to oil and 0.5%wt of sodium hydroxide in transesterification step. The fuel properties of waste coconut oil biodiesel were mostly met well within the ranges specified in biodiesel standard.
Modelling of Adams-Bohart and Yoon-Nelson on the Removal of Oil from Water Using Microwave Incinerated Rice Husk Ash (MIRHA)
Authors: Faizal Alina M. , Kutty Shamsul Rahman  Mohamed , Ezechi Ezerie Henry
Published: September 2014

- This study investigated the possible use of Microwave Incinerated Rice Husk Ash (MIRHA) as adsorbent for the treatment of wastewater generated from oil and gas industry using the column adsorption method. Adams-Bohart and Yoon-Nelson models were used to analyze experimental data. MIRHA was found to be porous, have high surface area and consist of 87-97% silica. Results show that both Adams-Bohart and Yoon-Nelson models can be used to describe experimental data.
The Potential of Thiosulfinates in Garlic Extract as Urease Bioinhibitor
Authors: Ramli Nur Kamila , Majeed Zahid , Shuib Anis , Mansor Nurlidia , Man Zakaria
Published: September 2014

Research on garlic or scientifically called as Alliumsativum L. has been conducted to ensure its inhibitory effects as potentially safe and biodegradable inhibitor. From previous research, thiosulfinates (TS) contained in garlic extract proved to inhibit platelets aggregation in medical applications. TS are obtained by extracting garlic cloves. In this study, the inhibitory effect is determined by analyzing ammonia (NH3) concentration in enzyme-containing solution and standard urea assay mixtures using UV-Vis spectrophotometer device. The Beer’s law is used to calculate the concentration with an aid of the curve value of standard NH3 calibration graph. Based on previous research, the NH3 concentration is predicted to decrease with amount of enzyme-containing solution and incubation time.
Bismuth-Modified Hydroxyapatite Carbon Electrode for Heavy Metal Detection in Biomatrices
Authors: Ajab Huma , Khan Aamir Amanat Ali , Dennis John Ojur , Abdullah Mohd Azmuddin
Published: September 2014

Micro-analytical based sensors with complex biomatrices such as blood, urine, or saliva are of increasing interest in health-care sector because of their sensitivity, selectively and simplicity. A modified carbon electrode with hydroxyapatite (HAp) and Bismuth (II) was developed to detect Pb2+ concentration in blood sera from healthy persons. Square wave anodic stripping voltammetry was used for the detection of Pb2+ by the interacting capability of the Bi film and HAp on the electrode surface with the optimised parameters of deposition time 240sec, deposition potential –1.0 V in 0.1M acetate buffer followed by square wave potential scan from-1.0 V to-0.2V.
Bi film deposited HAp-CME showed attractive electrochemical characteristics with high sensitivity for Pb2+. Clear current peaks for different Pb2+ concentrations were observed around-0.55V, with favourable signal-to-background ratio, and comparatively free from oxygen interferences.
Continuous Heavy Metal Removal from Palm Oil Mill Effluent Using Natural Ceiba pentandra Packed-Bed Column
Authors: Afzaal Muhammad , Periyasamy Balasubramanian , Abdullah Mohd Azmuddin
Published: September 2014

Packed bed column studies were carried out to evaluate the performance of natural Ceiba pentandra (L). Gaertn. (kapok) for the heavy metal removal from Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) under varying flow rate (5-10 ml/min) and packing density (0.04-0.08 g/cm3). A multilevel factorial design based on Packing density and flow rate of the influent was developed. Maximum metal reductions for Fe, Mn and Zn were 2.06 ppm, 0.081 ppm, and 0.064 ppm respectively obtained at 0.08 g/cm3 packing density and 5 ml/min flow rate. The results suggest the suitability of raw kapok fiber for low-cost removal of heavy metals.
Effect of Na/Al and Si/Al Ratios on Adhesion Strength of Geopolymers as Coating Material
Authors: Irfan Khan Muhammad , Azizi Khairun , Sufian Suriati , Man Zakaria
Published: September 2014

In this study fly ash based aluminosilicate coatings were formulated and the effect of the Na/Al, Si/Al ratios, and curing time upon adhesion strength of geopolymeric coating was measured using Elcometer 108. Geopolymer gained their maximum adhesion within first three days. After 3 days curing on 60oC resulted into a maximum adhesion strength of 10MPa at Si/Al=3 and Na/Al=1.0. Micro structural analysis and Infra red spectroscopy was used to study the geopolymerisation process. Surface profile of fly ash particles shown that degree of reactivity has a direct relation with their surface roughness.
Preparation of Biodiesel from Waste Cooking Oil Catalyzed by Basic Ionic Liquid
Authors: Ullah Zahoor , Bustam Mohd Azmi , Man Zakaria
Published: September 2014

A basic ionic liquid tetra butyl phosphonium hydroxide was applied as a catalyst for biodiesel production from waste cooking oil by transesterification process and the yield 82% was achieved. The ionic liquid was used four times without any dramatic decrease in ester yield. And the methyl ester was checked by 1H NMR.
Keywords: Biodiesel, waste cooking oil, transesterification, ionic liquid.
Coordinate Measurements of Geometrically Complex Ceramic Parts
Authors: Magdziak Marek , Wdowik Roman
Published: September 2014

The article presents the results of numerical and experimental investigations concerning contact coordinate measurements of complex ceramic parts made of Al2O3 and ZrO2 based ceramic materials in different states. The investigated parts were manufactured by using two machining processes: ultrasonic assisted grinding and conventional grinding. The results of investigations may be used in order to improve the manufacturing process of geometrically complex ceramic parts.
Mechanical Properties of Microwave Sintered 60YSZ-Al2O3/10HAP Bioceramics Composites
Authors: Liyana M.R.N. , Adzali Nur Maizatul Shima , Rahman W. , Zamzuri M.Z.M. , Azmi Harun
Published: September 2014

Microwave heating technology promising shorter processing times and less energy consumption beneficial for economic perspective with improved properties and better microstructural control. This study focussed on microwave sintered bioceramics material of 60YSZ-Al2O3/10HAP mixture fabricated by powder metallurgy route. The study was conducted based on three different sintering temperatures, starting with 900 °C, 1000°C ended with 1100°C. Mechanical properties of materials such as porosity, density, hardness and compressive strength were then determined for each composites. Results showed that lowest porosity was obtained at 1000°C which promoting to higher density, hardness and compressive strength. However, the increasing sintering temperature up to 1100 °C was initiated the decomposition of HAP and constitutes the formation of CaZrO3 determined by X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. Microstructure characterization by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) observed the growth of large particles and pores result in excessive grain coarsening. Better sinterability was achieved through an adequate sintering temperature of 1000°C with no reaction reported between HA and ZrO2 during the sintering process facilitate by microwave hybrid heating. The pores was found to be interconnected for each composites via microwave heating expected to be useful for biomedical application which was favorable to osteo-integration.
Reliability Analysis of Plug Door System Based on Dynamic Fault Tree
Authors: Wang Yan Hui , Bi Li Feng , Li Li Jie
Published: September 2014

The plug door system is an important guarantee of the safe operation of the emu, since it has structural redundancy, correlation function and fault dynamic characteristics, this paper uses the dynamic fault tree analysis method for reliability analysis. In deep understanding of the basis of the structure and working principle of the plug door, dynamic fault tree model is established by the way of structure ontology, Module iteration is introduced , and the Markov method is adopted to solve the reliability. At the last, we obtained the equipment failure rate and the reliability of the whole system.
In-Process Prediction of Surface Roughness in Grinding Process by Monitoring of Cutting Force Ratio
Authors: Thammasing Vichaya , Tangjitsitcharoen Somkiat
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this research is to develop the models to predict the average surface roughness and the surface roughness during the in-process grinding by monitoring the cutting force ratio. The proposed models are developed based on the experimentally obtained results by employing the exponential function with four factors, which are the spindle speed, the feed rate, the depth of cut, and the cutting force ratio. The experimentally obtained results showed that the dimensionless cutting force ratio is usable to predict the surface roughness during the grinding process, which can be calculated and obtained by taking the ratio of the corresponding time records of the cutting force Fy in the spindle speed direction to that of the cutting force Fz in the radial wheel direction. The multiple regression analysis is utilized to calculate the regression coefficients with the use of the least square method at 95% confident level. The experimentally obtained models have been verified by the new cutting tests. It is proved that the developed surface roughness models can be used to predict the in-process surface roughness with the high accuracy of 93.9% for the average surface roughness and 92.8% for the surface roughness.
Application of Six Sigma Methodology in Improving of the Industrial Production Processes
Authors: de Carvalho Gabriel , da Silva Christo Eliane , Alonso Costa Kelly
Published: September 2014

In the last few years, the automotive industry has adopted the Six Sigma program aiming the performance increasing in the competition market. This tool is used as basis of quality control and strategic planning for production, providing significant improvements in direct and indirect costs of production. This paper provides a successful result obtained in an automotive industry in which the quality had been improved through the strategy proposed by Six Sigma. This company, after applying the Six Sigma methodology, had successfully reduces the amount of defects in the automotive seats in the assembly line. After the implementation, the company achieved higher quality process and its costs decreased, reducing to less than 50 % the number of seats with defects. The study contributes to the management practices, by identifying new applications with Six Sigma and further analysis of manufacturing with financial performance as well as to discuss the implications of these findings for practice and for future research.