bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monte Carlo simulation of electron avalanches and avalanche size distributions in methane
Authors: Jovanović Aleksandar P. , Stamenković Suzana N. , Stankov Marjan N. , Marković Vidosav Lj.
Published: October 2018

The simulation of electron avalanches and avalanche size distributions in methane is presented in this paper. A model for electron transport under the influence of a constant electric field based on the Monte Carlo method is described in detail. The model is verified and then used to simulate the avalanche development, to calculate the number of electrons in the avalanche (avalanche size), and to determine the avalanche size distribution. The simulated avalanche size distributions in methane are compared with the experimental results, and a good agreement is observed. The influence of inter‐electrode distance, pressure, and reduced electric field on the shape of the avalanche size distribution is discussed. The assumption from the literature that for a constant reduced electric field the shape of the reduced avalanche size distribution is independent of the mean size of the avalanche is confirmed for a wide range of experimental conditions. The simulations have shown that avalanche size distributions depend only on the reduced electric field, confirming the similarity principle.
In‐house chemical library repurposing: A case example for Pseudomonas aeruginosa antibiofilm activity and quorum sensing inhibition
Authors: Ravithej Singh L , Tripathi Vikash C. , Raj Sneha , Kumar Anoop , Gupta Sampa , Horam Soyar , Upadhyay Akanksha , Kushwaha Pragati , Arockiaraj Jesu , Sashidhara Koneni V. , Pasupuleti Mukesh
Published: October 2018

Hit, Lead & Candidate Discovery

Drug repurposing has become a recent trend in drug development programs, where previously developed drugs are explored for hit and redeveloped into potential therapeutic agents for new diseases. Globally, in any drug development program, a series of molecules are synthesized and evaluated for the hypothesized activity. Hits are developed into lead molecules or drugs, whereas the negative ones are shelved in the lab with no immediate use. We in this project took the previously sidelined small chemical molecules to the next level of utility, where previously developed in‐house small molecules library are tested for the unexplored biological relevant activity. As biofilm formation and quorum sensing play a vital role in bacterial pathogenesis, we believe that they could be one of the most effective targets for antimicrobial agents. In this study, we report the evaluation of 50 different compounds for anti‐biofilm and anti‐quorum sensing activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Out of the screened compounds, three hydrazine‐carboxamide hybrid derivatives showed promising anti‐biofilm property and inhibition of pyocyanin production without any direct antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity issues. Hydrazine‐carboxamide hybrids can be a new class and promising leads for further anti‐biofilm and anti‐virulence development against microbial infections.
Repetitive neonatal pain and reduced maternal care alter brain neurochemistry
Authors: Mooney‐Leber Sean M. , Spielmann Stephanie S. , Brummelte Susanne
Published: October 2018

Preterm infants are exposed to many stressors while in the neonatal intensive care unit including pain and reduced maternal care. Both stressors can have a profound negative impact on brain development, and the present study sought to investigate some of the biological mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. Rat pups underwent a series of repetitive needle pokes and/or reduced maternal care through a novel tea‐ball infuser encapsulation model during the first four days of life. On postnatal day four, pups were sacrificed and serum was analyzed for corticosterone, while brains were tested for various neurotransmitters and brain metabolites through magnetic resonance spectroscopy. We found that exposure to maternal isolation and neonatal pain produced an increase in serum corticosterone but decreased glutamate levels in the hippocampus and frontal cortex. These alterations in stress responding and neurochemistry in response to the early‐life stressors may help explain some of the negative outcomes seen in preterm infants.
Tissue Regeneration Enhancer Elements: A Way to Unlock Endogenous Healing Power
Authors: Yang KaHoua , Kang Junsu
Published: October 2018

Regenerative capacity is widespread throughout almost all animal phyla. However, the distribution pattern remains incompletely understood. Various examples show that very closely related species display different regenerative capacities. Why and how have diverse regenerative capacities evolved across species? One prevailing thought in the field of regeneration is that most regeneration‐associated factors are evolutionarily conserved, suggesting the existence of an innate tissue regeneration ability in all species. However, its regulation is differentially controlled in distinct species, resulting in heterogeneous regenerative capabilities. In this review, we discuss regeneration‐associated enhancers, the key cis‐regulatory elements controlling gene expression, their underlying molecular mechanisms, and their influence on regenerative capacity. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms of regeneration enhancers can provide fundamental insights into tissue regeneration and further help us develop therapeutic strategies to unlock latent healing powers in humans. Developmental Dynamics 248:34–42, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Longitudinal and personalized networks of eating disorder cognitions and behaviors: Targets for precision intervention a proof of concept study
Authors: Levinson Cheri A. , Vanzhula Irina , Brosof Leigh C.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Despite the high mortality and significant societal and personal costs associated with eating disorders (EDs) there are few evidence‐based treatments. Part of the difficulty developing and implementing evidence‐based treatments in EDs is due to the extremely high heterogeneity (e.g., variability in treatment outcome, symptom presentation etc) present.

Methods

To begin to identify specific symptom heterogeneity within persons, the current study used novel within and between group and intra‐individual network analyses to create longitudinal and within‐person networks of ED cognitions and behaviors (N = 66 individuals diagnosed with an ED). This article provides a proof of concept study for how to use between and within‐person network analyses both for the EDs and other forms of psychopathology.

Results

We found that cognitions focused on desiring thinness played a likely maintaining role in ED pathology, across network type and across time. Furthermore, we showed that three individuals with the same diagnosis (anorexia nervosa) differed in which symptoms maintained the disorder. We use these participants to exemplify how to use intra‐individual network analysis to personalize treatment focused on the primary maintaining symptoms. Finally, we found that amount of time (e.g., 4 hr vs. simultaneously) impacts how symptoms maintain each other.

Conclusions

These findings have implications for the development of novel personalized evidence‐based treatments for EDs, as well as implications for how the field understands how psychopathology maintains itself. These data represent a first‐step towards using intra‐individual network analyses in the ED field, as well as for hypotheses generation in future research.
Maximum likelihood estimation of red blood cell aggregation degree based on calculation of local flow vector in blood circuit
Authors: Sato Takayuki , Suzuki Ryota , Sunaga Ryo
Published: October 2018

Establishment of real‐time monitoring technique for blood viscosity during extracorporeal treatment is strongly desired. We have demonstrated that the red blood cell aggregation degree, which highly correlates with the blood viscosity, can be estimated by the microscopic observation of the red blood cell over a transparent blood circuit tube and the two‐dimensional correlation process executed between time different images. In this paper, for estimation precision improvement, a maximum likelihood design of correlation region based on calculation of local flow vector has been attempted.
Modeling the interactive effects of spruce beetle infestation and climate on subalpine vegetation
Authors: Foster Adrianna C. , Shuman Jacquelyn K. , Shugart Herman H. , Negron Jose
Published: October 2018

In the subalpine zone of the Rocky Mountains, climate change is predicted to result in an increase in the frequency and severity of spruce beetle outbreaks. Climate change itself may affect vegetation, potentially leading to changes in species composition. The direct and indirect effects of climate and disturbances on forest composition, biomass, and dynamics open the possibility for non‐linear ecosystem responses. Modeling studies allow for the study of the interaction of these effects and their impact on the forest system. University of Virginia Forest Model Enhanced (UVAFME), an individual‐based gap model that simulates forest dynamics and characteristics, is updated with a spruce beetle subroutine that calculates the probability for beetle infestation and potential mortality of each tree on a plot. The updated model is then run with multiple scenarios that combine beetle infestation with current or altered climate at sites across the southern Rocky Mountains. Results show that spruce beetle infestations acted to facilitate competition with invading lower‐elevation species, resulting in an increase in the biomass of historically lower‐elevation species and a further decline in Engelmann spruce biomass than occurred with solely bark beetle disturbance or solely climate change. We also found an initial enhancing effect between spruce beetle infestation and climate change; however, by the end of 100 yr of climate change and potential beetle infestation, climate had a dampening effect on spruce beetle infestation, through loss of host trees. These results are an important step in understanding the possible futures for vegetation of the Rocky Mountains as well as for spruce forests across the western United States and Canada.
The carbon sequestration potential of China's grasslands
Authors: Song Jian , Wan Shiqiang , Peng Shushi , Piao Shilong , Ciais Philippe , Han Xingguo , Zeng De‐Hui , Cao Guangmin , Wang Qibing , Bai Wenming , Liu Lingli
Published: October 2018

With the consequences of anthropogenic activities such as overgrazing and cropland expansion, grasslands in China suffer severe degradation since the 1980s. The national grassland restoration policy enacted at the beginning of the 21th century has the potential to increase plant growth and productivity and hence regional carbon (C) sequestration. Here, we assessed plant and soil organic C (SOC) stocks for both degraded and restored/non‐degraded plots at 802 sites in Northern and Northwest China using pairwise field sampling and quantified the C sequestration potential (CSP) of China's grasslands. A geostatistical model was performed to upscale the field measurements to national scale. Averaged across the 802 paired grassland sites, the mean plant biomass C andSOCdensity in the top 1 m depth were 0.44 ± 0.17 and 8.82 ± 1.78 kg C/m2, respectively. Compared to the degraded grasslands, the restored grasslands had an average of 0.11 ± 0.17 (29.2%) and 1.02 ± 1.28 kg C/m2(12.3%) greater plant biomass C andSOCdensity, respectively. The geostatistical model produced a totalCSPof 17.3 ± 2.3 Pg C in China's grasslands, with 94% in soils. If theCSPestimated in this study could be achieved, the current grasslandSOCstock would increase by 61%, offsetting 11 yr (2000–2010) of national fossilCO2emissions.
Manipulating host resistance structure reveals impact of pathogen dispersal and environmental heterogeneity on epidemics
Authors: Penczykowski Rachel M. , Parratt Steven R. , Barrès Benoit , Sallinen Suvi K. , Laine Anna‐Liisa
Published: October 2018

Understanding how variation in hosts, parasites, and the environment shapes patterns of disease is key to predicting ecological and evolutionary outcomes of epidemics. Yet in spatially structured populations, variation in host resistance may be spatially confounded with variation in parasite dispersal and environmental factors that affect disease processes. To tease apart these disease drivers, we paired surveys of natural epidemics with experiments manipulating spatial variation in host susceptibility to infection. We mapped epidemics of the wind‐dispersed powdery mildew pathogen Podosphaera plantaginis in five populations of its plant host, Plantago lanceolata. At 15 replicate sites within each population, we deployed groups of healthy potted ‘sentinel’ plants from five allopatric host lines. By tracking which sentinels became infected in the field and measuring pathogen connectivity and microclimate at those sites, we could test how variation in these factors affected disease when spatial variation in host resistance and soil conditions was minimized. We found that the prevalence and severity of sentinel infection varied over small spatial scales in the field populations, largely due to heterogeneity in pathogen prevalence on wild plants and unmeasured environmental factors. Microclimate was critical for disease spread only at the onset of epidemics, where humidity increased infection risk. Sentinels were more likely to become infected than initially healthy wild plants at a given field site. However, in a follow‐up laboratory inoculation study we detected no significant differences between wild and sentinel plant lines in their qualitative susceptibility to pathogen isolates from the field populations, suggesting that primarily non‐genetic differences between sentinel and wild hosts drove their differential infection rates in the field. Our study leverages a multi‐faceted experimental approach to disentangle important biotic and abiotic drivers of disease patterns within wild populations.
Drivers of species turnover vary with species commonness for native and alien plants with different residence times
Authors: Latombe Guillaume , Richardson David M. , Pyšek Petr , Kučera Tomáš , Hui Cang
Published: October 2018

Communities comprising alien species with different residence times are natural experiments allowing the assessment of drivers of community assembly over time. Stochastic processes (such as dispersal and fluctuating environments) should be the dominant factors structuring communities of exotic species with short residence times. In contrast, communities should become more similar, or systematically diverge, if they contain exotics with increasing resident times, due to the increasing importance of deterministic processes (such as environmental filtering). We use zeta diversity (the number of species shared by multiple assemblages) to explore the relationship between the turnover of native species and two categories of alien species with different residence times (archaeophytes [introduced between 4000 BC and 1500 AD] and neophytes [introduced after 1500 AD]) in a network of nature reserves in central Europe. By considering multiple assemblages simultaneously, zeta diversity allows us to determine the contribution of rare and widespread species to turnover. Specifically, we explore the relative effects of assembly processes representing isolation by distance, environmental filtering, and environmental stochasticity (fluctuating environments) on zeta diversity using Multi‐Site Generalized Dissimilarity Modelling (MS‐GDM). Four clusters of results emerged. First, stochastic processes for structuring plant assemblages decreased in importance with increasing residence time. Environmental stochasticity only affected species composition for neophytes, offering possibilities to predict the spread debt of recent invasions. Second, native species turnover was well explained by environmental filtering and isolation by distance, although these factors did not explain the turnover of archaeophytes and neophytes. Third, native and alien species compositions were only correlated for rare species, whereas turnover in widespread alien species was surprisingly unrelated to the composition of widespread native species. Site‐specific approaches would therefore be more appropriate for the monitoring and management of rare alien species, whereas species‐specific approaches would suit widespread species. Finally, the size difference of nature reserves influences not only native species richness, but also their richness‐independent turnover. A network of reserves must therefore be designed and managed using a variety of approaches to enhance native diversity, while controlling alien species with different residence times and degrees of commonness.
Comparision of Green and Conventional Extraction Methods on Lipid Yield and Fatty Acid Profiles of Fish Species
Authors: Ozogul Yesim , Ucar Yılmaz , Takadaş Fethiye , Durmus Mustafa , Köşker Ali R. , Polat Abdurahman
Published: October 2018

The efficiency of the green extraction methods ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) and microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE), and conventional methods (Soxhlet and Bligh and Dyer), on lipid content and fatty acid profiles of six fish species (Mullus barbatus, red mullet; Upeneus moluccensis, goldband goatfish; Mullus surmuletus, surmullet; Anguilla anguilla, European eel; Pagellus erythrinus, common pandora, and Saurida undosquamis, brushtooth lizardfish) are evaluated. The results of lipid content of fish species show that the Bligh and Dyer method and UAE in general are more efficient than other methods. There are statistical differences in the fatty acid composition of fish oil by four extraction methods (p < 0.05). Saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) contents of fish species range from 29.51 mg 100 g−1 fish (Soxhlet)–1400 mg 100 g−1 (UAE), 15.52 mg 100 g−1 (UAE)–2237.18 mg 100 g−1 (Bligh and Dyer), and 14.36% (Soxhlet)–646 mg 100 g−1 (Bligh and Dyer), respectively. Generally, Bligh and Dyer give the higher values in surmullet, red mullett, and common pandora in terms of SFA, MUFA, PUFA, and the dominant fatty acids (C16:0, C18:0, C16:1, C18:1n9, C18:1n7, C22:1n9, EPA, DHA), whereas MAE and UAE methods give better results in goldband goldfish and European eel, respectively. Thus, extraction methods affect the lipid yield and fatty acid profiles of extracted oil of different fish species.

Practical Application: Total lipid content of seafood is an important parameter used in biochemical, physiological, and nutritional studies. Thus, reliable methods for the quantitative extraction of lipids from this type of food are of critical importance. The effects of green and conventional extraction methods on lipid yield and fatty acid profiles of fish species are compared in order to determine the most effective method for extracting lipid with high yield and high content of PUFA, especially EPA and DHA.

The effects of green and conventional extraction methods on lipid yield and fatty acid profiles of fish species are evaluated. The extraction methods affect the lipid yield and fatty acid profiles of extracted oil of fish species. The Bligh and Dyer method and UAE in general are more efficient than other methods. In terms of SFA, MUFA, PUFA, EPA, and DHA; Bligh and Dyer gave the higher values in surmullet, redmullet, and common pandora whereas MAE and UAE methods gave better results in goldband goldfish and European eel, respectively.
Can All the Sardinian Varieties Support the PDO “Sardegna” Virgin Olive Oil?
Authors: Deiana Pierfrancesco , Santona Mario , Dettori Sandro , Molinu Maria G. , Dore Antonio , Culeddu Nicola , Azara Emanuela , Naziri Eleni , Tsimidou Maria Z.
Published: October 2018

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) labels are important tools to promote high quality virgin olive oils (VOO). To better valorize and differentiate among others these labeled products it is necessary to have a deep knowledge of characteristics and features of the monovarietal VOOs that are used. In Sardinia, only one PDO, named “Sardegna,” is registered. Drupes from several local varieties are mixed up before pressing. Four are the principal autochthonous Sardinian varieties: Bosana, Tonda di Cagliari, Tonda di Villacidro, Semidana, and respective synonyms. This study examines the chemical and nutritional characteristics of monovarietal VOOs of some of the varieties that comprise the label with the aim to establish the identity and natural variability of the registered product. Results are compared with those from some minor Sardinian and Italian cultivars, all grown under the same agronomic and environmental conditions. Data for the fatty acid and sterol composition together with those for some specific nutrient and non nutrient antioxidants are used to investigate whether the mixing up of many different varieties is favorable in the production of this particular product. PDO varieties achieve broadly minimum quality levels requested by the label regulation and express some specific characteristics in accordance to genetic similarities.

Practical Applications: Knowledge of chemical composition of VOOs from minor local varieties is of great interest for the promotion of products typical of a specific territory and to improve quality and competitiveness of protected denominations labels. The characterization of VOO admitted to a PDO can help producers to optimize blends obtaining specific nutritional and sensorial features. Moreover, findings are important to highlight some distinctive features among genetic groups that might be useful for further supporting the integrity of the registered product in the near future.

PDO “Sardegna” is the only quality label for EVOO registered in Sardinia (Italy). It must be characterized at least for the 80% by the four principal autochthonous Sardinian varieties: Bosana, Semidana, Tonda di Cagliari, Tonda di Villacidro, and their other names. VOO composition of 14 of the Sardinian varieties that can be used in the production of the registered product, with the aim to establish its identity and natural variability of this label are analyzed.
Thia‐Bridged Triarylamine Hetero[4]Helicenes: Regioselective Synthesis and Functionalization
Authors: Menichetti Stefano , Faggi Cristina , Onori Martina , Piantini Sara , Ferreira Misael , Rocchi Sara , Lupi Michela , Marin Ivan , Maggini Michele , Viglianisi Caterina
Published: October 2018

Thia‐bridged triarylamine hetero[4]helicenes (TBTH[4]H) are a peculiar class of geometrically stable [4]helicenes that have shown promising applications as organic electronic materials. Their structure comprises a bis‐phenothiazine moiety, with a nitrogen atom and an aromatic ring in common, forced into a helix‐shaped arrangement by four carbon–sulfur bonds. We describe a detailed study on the scope and application of the electrophilic sulfur insertion path to TBTH[4]H, with particular emphasis on the regioselective preparation of asymmetric (not dissymmetric) derivatives.
Association between pain‐related fear and presenteeism among eldercare workers with low back pain
Authors: Tsuboi Yamato , Murata Shunsuke , Naruse Fumihiro , Ono Rei
Published: October 2018

Background

Presenteeism (work productivity loss at work) and low back pain (LBP) are prevalent among eldercare workers. Presenteeism is a serious emerging problem in an occupational setting. While many studies report the impact of pain‐related fear on absenteeism, its impact on presenteeism remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study to investigate the association between pain‐related fear and presenteeism among 505 eldercare workers with LBP. We measured pain‐related fear using the 11‐item Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK‐11). We used the Work Limitations Questionnaire (WLQ) to estimate productivity loss due to presenteeism with items including Time Management, Mental‐Interpersonal Demands, Physical Demands and Output Demands. The presenteeism was categorized into no (<5%), mild (5%–10.9%), moderate (11%–16.9%) and severe presenteeism (≥17%). We further performed ordinal logistic regression analyses, and the covariates were age, sex, pain intensity, pain disability and psychosocial factors. Multiple imputation was conducted to provide informed estimates for observations with missing data.

Results

After adjustment, a higher TSK score was significantly associated with a higher presenteeism (proportional OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.06–1.15). A significant association of TSK with all WLQ subscales was retained even after the adjustment (Time Management: proportional OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.08; Mental‐Interpersonal Demands: proportional OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.04–1.12; Physical Demands: proportional OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01–1.08; and Output Demands: proportional OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 1.02–1.10).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that pain‐related fear is an important factor related to presenteeism among eldercare workers with LBP.

Significance

This study describes an independent association of pain‐related fear with presenteeism among eldercare workers with low back pain. Pain‐related fear could be considered a vital factor of presenteeism in addition to absenteeism.
Predictors of mitochondrial DNA copy number and damage in a mercury‐exposed rural Peruvian population near artisanal and small‐scale gold mining: An exploratory study
Authors: Berky Axel J. , Ryde Ian T. , Feingold Beth , Ortiz Ernesto J. , Wyatt Lauren H. , Weinhouse Caren , Hsu‐Kim Heileen , Meyer Joel N. , Pan William K.
Published: October 2018

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number (CN) and damage in circulating white blood cells have been proposed as effect biomarkers for pollutant exposures. Studies have shown that mercury accumulates in mitochondria and affects mitochondrial function and integrity; however, these data are derived largely from experiments in model systems, rather than human population studies that evaluate the potential utility of mitochondrial exposure biomarkers. We measured mtDNA CN and damage in white blood cells (WBCs) from 83 residents of nine communities in the Madre de Dios region of the Peruvian Amazon that vary in proximity to artisanal and small‐scale gold mining. Prior research from this region reported high levels of mercury in fish and a significant association between food consumption and human total hair mercury level of residents. We observed that mtDNA CN and damage were both associated with consumption of fruit and vegetables, higher diversity of fruit consumed, residential location, and health characteristics, suggesting common environmental drivers. Surprisingly, we observed negative associations of mtDNA damage with both obesity and age. We did not observe any association between total hair mercury or, in contrast to previous results, age, with either mtDNA damage or CN. The results of this exploratory study highlight the importance of combining epidemiological and laboratory research in studying the effects of stressors on mitochondria, suggesting that future work should incorporate nutritional and social characteristics, and caution should be taken when applying conclusions from epidemiological studies conducted in the developed world to other regions, as results may not be easily translated. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60: 197–210, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Numerical and experimental investigation of a modified solar basin using as a bubbler humidifier in humidification–dehumidification desalination system
Authors: Ben Halima Hanen , Frikha Nader , Gabsi Slimane
Published: October 2018

This article presents a theoretical study and experimental validation of a new solar bubbler basin using as a humidifier in humidification–dehumidification desalination system. The prototype consists mainly of a simple solar basin, filled with water, through which air is forced to travel upwards in form of bubbles. A detailed mass and heat transfer analysis was elaborated to model the dynamic behavior of the new humidifier. It is through a comparison with the experimental data that the validity of the proposed model was tested. The simulation results have revealed that the humidification efficiency and the amount of evaporated water can reach 98% and 6 kg m−2 day−1, during the spring equinox. The effects of some operational parameters (water depth, inlet air temperature, and flow rate) were investigated. It was found that the inlet air temperature and flow rate have a significant effect on the water content difference in the humidifier. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 518–526, 2019
Performance and Emission Characteristics of a Diesel Engine Fueled with Alcohol–Diesel Fuel Blends Containing Low Ratio of Alcohols
Authors: Wu Fengying , Xu Bin , Liu Yibin , Wu Jian
Published: October 2018

The study is to investigate the effects of diesel–alcohol blends containing low ratio of alcohols on the performance and emissions of a diesel engine. Methanol, ethanol, iso‐propanol, and n‐butanol containing 5% by volume were blended with diesel fuel. Then, these blends and neat diesel fuel were tested in an electronic control high‐pressure common rail turbocharged direct injection (DI) diesel engine working at the speed of 2000 revolutions per minute (rpm) and 2800 rpm at five different loads without any modification in the original engine structure. The results of the blends tests were compared with the results of neat diesel fuel under the same condition. The results revealed that, with the increase of the carbon atom number of alcohol, peak combustion pressure of main injection, cumulative heat release, maximum combustion temperature and brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) increased for the blends. The combustion duration for the blends became shorter than that of pure diesel. Diesel–alcohol blends containing low ratios of various alcohols can effectively reduce at least 29% of smoke emissions and under one condition the percentage can reach 81%. Additionally, the blends have a slight influence on the oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emissions. The emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburnt hydrocarbon (THC) increased very slightly at low load, but they decreased distinctively at medium and high load. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13035, 2019
Global warming: review on driving forces and mitigation
Authors: Al‐Ghussain Loiy
Published: October 2018

Global warming is one of the major consequences of the human activities where the overuse of fossil fuels as energy resources caused the increase in the concentration of the greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as CO2, CH4, N2O, and water vapor, in the atmosphere causing the increase in the average surface temperature of the earth. This article reviews the driving forces of global warming and highlights the major contributors to this phenomenon and presents some of the mitigation techniques. Water vapor is responsible for two‐third of the global warming; however, CO2 is considered as the controlling factor of the global warming. In other words, if the concentration of CO2 did not increase, global warming would not have happened. Scientists claim that doubling or halving the CO2 in the atmosphere causes the change in the average surface temperature of the earth by +3.8 °C or −3.6 °C, respectively. However, this amount of change depends on the change in the humidity of the air which in return depends on the air's temperature. Conversely, even though the other GHGs such as CH4 and N2O have stronger ability to absorb the radiation, their contribution in the global warming is insignificant because of their low concentration in the atmosphere compared with CO2. The adoption of the mitigation and adaptation strategies at the same time is the most effective economic and technical solution for the global warming issue. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 13–21, 2019
Prediction of the performance and emissions of a spark ignition engine fueled with butanol‐gasoline blends based on support vector regression
Authors: Zuo Qingsong , Zhu Xinning , Liu Zhiqiang , Zhang Jianping , Wu Gang , Li Yuelin
Published: October 2018

Butanol is considered as the more promising alternative fuel candidate because of its favorable chemical and physical properties over ethanol and methanol. In this study, the performance and emissions of a port fuel injected spark ignition engine fueled with butanol‐gasoline blends (0–60 vol % butanol blended with gasoline referred as G100‐B60), including brake thermal efficiency (BTE), brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and carbon monoxide (CO), unburned hydrocarbon (UHC), nitrogen oxide (NOx), were investigated under various equivalence ratio. Among the butanol‐gasoline blends, B30 performs well in engine performance and emissions due to its CO (2.3%–8.7%), UHC (12.4%–27.5%), and NOx (2.8%–19.6%) emissions compared to those of gasoline. Butanol can be a good alternative fuel to gasoline for its potential to reduce pollutant emissions. It is well known that engine tests are hard, time consuming, and high cost. Therefore, support vector regression (SVR) was used to predict the performance and emissions of the engine, where equivalence ratio and blend ratio were used as the input parameters, and BTE, BSFC, CO, UHC, and NOx were used as the output parameters. It was observed that the correlation coefficients and mean relative error were in the range of 0.9940–0.9998 and 0.1901–10.2570%, respectively. The SVR predictions of BTE, BSFC, CO, UHC, and NOx yielded the root‐mean‐squared‐errors of 0.0511%, 4.6058 g/kW h, 0.9995% vol, 7.7503 ppm vol and 38.5861 ppm, respectively. It could be indicated that the SVR provided an accurate and simple approach to analyze performance and exhaust emissions of spark ignition engine. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13042, 2019
Life cycle assessment of production of black locust logs and straw pellets for energy purposes
Authors: Żelazna Agnieszka , Kraszkiewicz Artur , Przywara Artur , Łagód Grzegorz , Suchorab Zbigniew , Werle Sebastian , Ballester Javier , Nosek Radovan
Published: October 2018

In recent years, black locust has been receiving special attention as a potential energy crop. Conversely, straw, which constitutes a waste product, is mainly used for energy purposes. The aim of this study was to perform the Life Cycle Assessment of straw pellet and black locust logs production. The environmental effects were investigated according to the Ecoindicator’99 and Global Warming Potential 100a methods. The single score for the functional unit of black locust logs equals 5.47 Pt, and for cereal straw pellets is between 23.37 and 30.49 Pt. The minor value of the indicator for wood results from higher density and net calorific value, which in this study was equal to 17.72 MJ/kg for black locust and 14.9 MJ/kg for cereal straw pellets. Moreover, greenhouse gas emission was calculated and equals 94.7 kgCO2eq for black locust logs and between 365.9 and 588.3 kgCO2eq for cereal straw pellets. Obtained results allow to compare the processes of biomass production. Black locust logs have a smaller potential of affecting the environment than pellets due to lower energy intensity of the production process, especially lower electricity consumption. Furthermore, logistic improvement may significantly decrease the environmental impact of discussed products.

Novelty or Significance: The presented study includes the comparison of two biomass products (cereal straw pellets and black locust logs) based on the Life Cycle Assessment of their production. The originality of the comparison is based both on the detailed inventory and the applied impact assessment method (Ecoindicator'99). The broadened scope of the study allowed for the assessment of both production of materials and pellets, which brings the novel contribution into the existing state of knowledge pertaining to the biomass life cycle described by points of Ecoindicator and greenhouse gas emission. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 163–170, 2019
An eco‐friendly approach for copper (II) biosorption on alga Cystoseira indica and its characterization
Authors: Roozegar Maryam , Behnam Sanaz
Published: October 2018

The alga Cystoseira indica was used for copper (II) removal from aqueous solutions. Effects of initial pH, ion concentration, contact time, and different pretreatments on biosorption were investigated. Potentiometric titration, chemical modification, FTIR and ICP analyses were performed to study the biosorption mechanism. Ho's pseudo‐second order model described kinetics data appropriately. Adsorption isotherm was fitted to Langmuir model with the maximum adsorption capacity of 72.1 mg g−1 at pH 4 and 25°C for 0.6 g l−1 of biomass. Strong, weak, and very weak acidities which were calculated from potentiometric titration were respectively 1.50, 1.49, and 0.67 me per g dry biomass. Sulfonate, carboxyl, and amine functional groups were involved in biosorption. Treatment with alkali and salt increased biosorption capacity, while acidic treatment decreased it. Ions of Na+, Sr2+, Ca2+, Zn2+, H+, and Mg2+ were released into the solution due to copper removal which indicated that ion exchange was a mechanism of biosorption. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S323–S330, 2019
Materials, Innovations and Future Research Opportunities on Wind Turbine Blades—Insight Review
Authors: Karthikeyan N. , Anand R.B. , Suthakar T. , Barhate Shubham
Published: October 2018

Nowadays, wind turbine blades are manufactured using several materials and methodologies to save cost and to increase their performance. This article gives a brief overview of blade materials and prevailing manufacturing traits to make them more reliable and cost‐efficient. The surface roughness, manufacturing defects, and fluctuating loads in flow fields significantly affect wind turbine power generation. However, these problems can be reduced by using appropriate materials. Therefore, selection of wind turbine materials is extremely important to maintain its performance even in harsh environmental conditions. This article describes an overview of current material solutions for overcoming material defects like delamination, structural distortion, and icing problems in the Polar Regions. It involves composites, smart alloys, protective coatings, etc. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13046, 2019

Highlights

Types of loading, failure mechanisms and current manufacturing methods of wind turbine blades.

Innovative blade material approach: Morphing concepts, Glass or Carbon fiber/Nano‐/Bio‐Composites.

Active and passive strategies for anti‐icing or de‐icing of wind turbine blades.
Solar radiation on south‐facing inclined surfaces under different climatic zones in India
Authors: Jamil Basharat , Siddiqui Abid T. , Denkenberger David C.
Published: October 2018

In this work, solar radiation availability has been estimated for south‐facing inclined surfaces in India. Five different climatic zones prescribed by Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) for India have been considered. A comparison of optimum tilt angles and corresponding incident solar radiation for representative locations under different climatic zones, that is, Srinagar (cold), Delhi (composite), Jodhpur (hot and dry), Mumbai (warm and humid), and Bangalore (Temperate) has been established. Gains in the availability of incident solar radiation in comparison with a horizontal surface observed for Jodhpur and Bangalore were found to be maximum (15.77%) and minimum (7.57%), respectively, on monthly optimum tilt angle. A loss of 5.74% for cold climate, 7.49% for composite climate, 6.16% for hot and dry climate, 4.30% for warm and humid climate, and 4.39% for temperate climate were estimated with surface tilted at annual optimum tilt in comparison with a surface at monthly optimum tilt angle. A linear relationship was observed between annual optimum tilt angles and locations latitude as
βopt(annual) = 0.671 ϕ + 9.087 with R2 = 0.9984. It was concluded that climatic conditions can considerably affect the availability of incident solar radiation under different climatic zones. ‘ 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13050, 2019
Biodiesel production using calcium‐based catalyst from venus shell: Modeling of startup production in an industrial reactor
Authors: Sun Yong , Zhang Jingping , Sun Zhi , Zhang Lian
Published: October 2018

Calcium oxide‐based catalyst was produced from Venus shell by fast fluidized bed calcination for biodiesel synthesis. The kinetics of biodiesel synthesis was found to be a pseudo‐first‐order reaction at the experimental conditions. The obtained kinetic parameters were used for modeling the startup operation of biodiesel production in an industrial continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR). The model was found to agree well with the reagent concentration and temperature profiles in a real production practice during biodiesel production. The variations of initial temperature, initial reagent concentration in the reactor was investigated. It was found that the reagent concentration and temperature oscillated around the final steady state. From safety operation perspective, the first 4 h were found to be the most unsteady period during continuous production. The initial concentration of waste fry oil (WFO) was also found to be critical to the safe operation of CSTR. A violation of the settings for safe operation of CSTR will be triggered once the initial concentration of WFO in CSTR reaches 500 mol m−3. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13053, 2019
A Comprehensive Study of Ground Measurement and Satellite‐Derived Data of Global and Diffuse Radiation
Authors: Mahima  , Karakoti Indira , Pathak P. P. , Nandan Hemwati
Published: October 2018

The comparative study of measured and calculated data of India Meteorological Department (IMD) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for 23 locations of India for 15 years (1986–2000) is presented. Global and diffuse radiation data are used in the study and to make the study comprehensive, three statistical predictors, viz., mean percentage error (MPE), root mean square error (RMSE), and mean bias error (MBE) are used for the comparison. The results show that for global radiation, MPE is maximum of −36.65% for Shillong and minimum of 0.93% for New Delhi. MBE is found to be maximum of 1.63 kWh/m2 for Shillong while it is minimum (0.04 kWh/m2) for Nagpur. RMSE is maximum (2.14 kWh/m2) for Shillong and minimum for Ranchi (0.19 kWh/m2). For diffuse radiation, MPE is highest for Bhavnagar (100%) and lowest for Hyderabad (81.33%). MBE is maximum of −7.73 kWh/m2 and minimum of −4.62 kWh/m2 for Srinagar. RMSE is maximum for Bhavnagar (8.26 kWh/m2) and minimum for Srinagar (4.73 kWh/m2). © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13060, 2019
Extraction and recovery optimization of succinic acid using green emulsion liquid membrane containing palm oil as the diluent
Authors: Jusoh Norela , Noah Norul Fatiha Mohamed , Othman Norasikin
Published: October 2018

Succinic acid extraction and recovery from aqueous solution via emulsion liquid membrane (ELM) was investigated. The liquid membrane formulation consists of Amberlite LA2 as a carrier, palm oil as a diluent, sorbitan monooleate (Span 80) and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80) as surfactants, sodium carbonate (Na2CO3) as a stripping agent, and octanol as a modifier. At the best condition of 0.01 M Na2CO3, 1:3 treat ratio, 0.7 M Amberlite LA2, 10% w/v modifier, and external solution of pH 2, the extraction of succinic acid was up to 71%. The optimization of recovery by response surface methodology (RSM) shows that around 40% of succinic acid was recovered. At the favorable condition, 84% of succinic acid was recovered with almost 100% purity. Hence, the ELM study can be extended to extract and recover succinic acid from real fermentation broth. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38:e13065, 2019
Arsenic removal from aqueous solutions using Saccharomyces cerevisiae: Kinetic and equilibrium study
Authors: Mohebbrad Batool , Bonyadi Ziaeddin , Dehghan Ali A. , Rahmat Mahdi H.
Published: October 2018

Saccharomyces cerevisiae is desired species of yeast for the biological removal of arsenic because of its high selectivity, performance, low‐cost, abundant availability, and the fact that it is environmentally friendly. Arsenic removal was experimentally conducted using S. cerevisiae, based on different parameters including pH (5–9), time (5–1440 min), the concentration of arsenic (0.1–1 mg/L) and adsorbent dose (0.5–5 g/L). The results indicated that the maximum removal efficiency of arsenic (81.45%) occurred under arsenic 0.1 mg/l, adsorbent 1 g/L, pH 5, and duration of 60 min. The adsorption process was well fitted with Langmuir model for the majority of samples tested. The experimental data were suitably fitted by the pseudo‐second order kinetic model, which was the best model to fit. The removal efficiency of arsenic had an increasing rate from 5 to 1440 min followed by equilibrium. Biosorption process is desired at low pH under acidic conditions. The results of this study confirmed that S. cerevisiae could be used as a low‐cost adsorbent for removal of arsenic from aqueous solutions. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S398–S402, 2019
What are the key factors influencing consumers’ preference and willingness to pay for meat products in EasternDRC?
Authors: Udomkun Patchimaporn , Ilukor John , Mockshell Jonathan , Mujawamariya Gaudiose , Okafor Christopher , Bullock Renee , Nabahungu Nsharwasi Léon , Vanlauwe Bernard
Published: October 2018

Dietary patterns for consumers among the elite and middle‐income classes in developing countries are shifting rapidly toward the consumption of more animal‐based products. Although this shift presents opportunities, there are significant market failures affecting their preferences and willingness to pay (WTP). This study used a multistage sample survey of 309 consumers from three different communities of Bukavu, EasternDRC, to examine the effect of socioeconomic/socio‐demographic characteristics and quality attributes on consumers’ purchasing decisions andWTPfor meat products. The results suggested that about 53% of the respondents were dissatisfied with meat products in the market due to their high price, low quantity, unhealthiness, and harmful effects. Older female respondents living in urban areas were more likely to purchase meat products. TheirWTPwas significantly determined by attributes such as color, in‐mouth texture, and availability. Nutrition, harmful effects, and availability of meat products are the important factors that influence purchasing decisions among higher income groups. Addressing these market failures could have an impact on the meat market, improving the nutrition of low‐income consumers and ensuring food safety standards inDRCand other developing countries with similar challenges.