bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of α-Fe/Fe3C/Woodceramic Nanocomposite with Its Improved Microwave Absorption and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhou Weihong , Yu Yunshui , Xiong Xueliang , Zhou Sicong
Published: May 2018

Furan resin and fir powder pretreated by FeCl3 and aqueous ammonia solution were used to fabricate α-Fe/Fe3C/woodceramic nanocomposite. The bands of the pretreated wood powder were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The structural characterization of the nanocomposites was performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The microwave absorption of the nanocomposites was measured by a vector network analyzer in the range of 2–18 GHz. The mechanical properties of the composites were also investigated. XRD and SEM results show that the α-Fe and Fe3C nanoparticles are in-situ generated and disperse in the matrix of the woodceramic. The diameters of these nanoparticles increase with the increasing of concentration of FeCl3 solution. The experimental results show that both the complex permittivity and the complex permeability of α-Fe/Fe3C/woodceramic nanocomposites increase as the concentration of FeCl3 solution increases. The composites pretreated with 0.60 mol·L−1 FeCl3 have the best absorption properties. The maximum value of reflection loss (RL) at 3 mm thickness reaches −25.60 dB at 10.16 GHz and the bandwidth below −10 dB is about 2.5 GHz. Compared to woodceramic, the bending strength and compressive strength of α-Fe/Fe3C/woodceramic nanocomposites increase by 22.5% and 18.7% at most, respectively.
Thermomechanical Grain Refinement in AA6082-T6 Thin Plates under Bobbin Friction Stir Welding
Authors: Tamadon Abbas , Pons Dirk J. , Sued Kamil , Clucas Don
Published: May 2018

Bobbin friction stir welding (BFSW), with its fully penetrated pin and double-sided shoulder, can provide high rates of heat generation. This produces solid-state thermo-mechanical grain refinement. In this paper, the microstructure evolution of the welded joints of AA6082-T6 obtained using BFSW process was investigated with a focus on grain refinement. Two sheets of the AA6082-T6 alloy were butt-welded with a fixed-gap bobbin tool. The microstructure at a mid-weld transverse cross-section was evaluated using optical microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Significant grain refinement was observed, with a decrease in grain size from 100 μm in directional columnar grain morphology of the base metal, to an ultrafine size—less than 10 μm—for the equiaxed grains in the stirring zone. The EBSD results showed that with BFSW processing, secondary phase precipitation patterns were produced that are distinct from the primary artificial age-hardening precipitates created by the T6 tempering cycle. The severe plastic deformation and heat generation appear to accelerate dynamic recrystallization and precipitation during the BFSW process. The microstructural studies confirmed that the BFSW process can provide a highly efficient thermodynamically activated grain refinement in the solid-state without requiring additional processes such as heat treatment or external means of grain refinement.
The Impact of Hybrid Compositional Film/Structure on Organic–Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Yinghui , Chen Wei , Chen Guo , Liu Liyu , He Zhubing , Liu Ruchuan
Published: May 2018

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been intensively investigated over the last several years. Unprecedented progress has been made in improving their power conversion efficiency; however, the stability of perovskite materials and devices remains a major obstacle for the future commercialization of PSCs. In this review, recent progress in PSCs is summarized in terms of the hybridization of compositions and device architectures for PSCs, with special attention paid to device stability. A brief history of the development of PSCs is given, and their chemical structures, optoelectronic properties, and the different types of device architectures are discussed. Then, perovskite composition engineering is reviewed in detail, with particular emphasis on the cationic components and their impact on film morphology, the optoelectronic properties, device performance, and stability. In addition, the impact of two-dimensional and/or one-dimensional and nanostructured perovskites on structural and device stability is surveyed. Finally, a future outlook is proposed for potential resolutions to overcome the current issues.
Effect of Ethanol on Ag@Mesoporous Silica Formation by In Situ Modified Stöber Method
Authors: Chen Qian , Ge Yanling , Granbohm Henrika , Hannula Simo-Pekka
Published: May 2018

Tunable core-shell Ag@Mesoporous SiO2 spheres were synthesized via an in situ modified Stöber approach by varying the amount of ethanol (EtOH) expanding their potentials in many applications. Mesoporous silica was generated by adding tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) to the mixture of colloidal Ag particles prepared by reducing silver nitrate (AgNO3) with L-ascorbic acid and using hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) as a template at the presence of ethanol and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at pH 10 as a catalyst. The average sizes of the Ag cores at the three increasing volumes of ethanol were ~47 ± 6, 36 ± 4, and 11 ± 5 nm, while the silica particle size and the thickness of the silica shells increased, resulting in a blueshift of localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPR) of the Ag NPs. The corresponding specific surface areas of silica particles were 356 ± 10, 419 ± 20 and 490 ± 25 m2 g−1, and average pore diameters varied from 5.7, 5.0 to 3.3 nm according to BET and BJH analyses. TEM studies confirmed the core-shell structure, pore sizes and shapes of mesoporous shells. The dissolution tests demonstrated that the release of Ag from the powder samples is pH-sensitive and time-dependent.
The Effect of Low-Carbohydrate Diet on Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Li-Li , Wang Qi , Hong Yong , Ojo Omorogieva , Jiang Qing , Hou Yun-Ying , Huang Yu-Hua , Wang Xiao-Hua
Published: May 2018

Objective: In China, a low-fat diet (LFD) is mainly recommended to help improve blood glucose levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) has been shown to be effective in improving blood glucose levels in America and England. A few studies, primarily randomized controlled trials, have been reported in China as well. Method: Firstly, we designed two ‘six-point formula’ methods, which met the requirements of LCD and LFD, respectively. Fifty-six T2DM patients were recruited and randomly allocated to the LCD group (n = 28) and the LFD group (n = 28). The LCD group received education about LCD’s six-point formula, while the LFD group received education about LFD’s six-point formula. The follow-up time was three months. The indicators for glycemic control and other metabolic parameters were collected and compared between the two groups. Results: Forty-nine patients completed the study. The proportions of calories from three macronutrients the patients consumed met the requirements of LCD and LFD. Compared to the LFD group, there was a greater decrease in HbA1c level in the LCD group (−0.63% vs. −0.31%, p < 0.05). The dosages of insulin and fasting blood glucoses (FBG) in the third month were lower than those at baseline in both groups. Compared with baseline values, body mass index (BMI) and total cholesterol (TC) in the LCD group were significantly reduced in the third month (p < 0.05); however, there were no statistically significant differences in the LFD group. Conclusions: LCD can improve blood glucose more than LFD in Chinese patients with T2DM. It can also regulate blood lipid, reduce BMI, and decrease insulin dose in patients with T2DM. In addition, the six-point formula is feasible, easily operable, and a practical educational diet for Chinese patients with T2DM.
Omega 3 Consumption and Anxiety Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)
Authors: Natacci Lara , M. Marchioni Dirce , C. Goulart Alessandra , Nunes Maria Angélica , B. Moreno Arlinda , O. Cardoso Letícia , Giatti Luana , B. Molina Maria del Carmen , S. Santos Itamar , R. Brunoni André , A. Lotufo Paulo , M. Bensenor Isabela
Published: May 2018

Few studies have evaluated the association between diet and mental disorders, and it has been established that ω-3 (n-3) fatty acids may have a beneficial effect for sufferers of anxiety disorders. This study is part of the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)—a population-based cohort study on diet and mental health—and searched for associations between anxiety disorders and consumption of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The study had a cross-sectional design, with a total sample of 12,268 adults. Dietary exposure was measured by a quantitative food-frequency questionnaire, and mental diagnoses were assessed by the Clinical Interview Schedule—Revised Version and diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Logistic regression models were built using quintiles of n-3, ω 6 (n-6), n-6/n-3 ratio, and PUFA, using the 1st quintile as reference. Anxiety disorders were identified in 15.4% of the sample. After adjusting for sociodemographic variables, cardiovascular risk factors, diet variables, and depression, intakes in the 5th quintile were inversely associated with anxiety disorders for EPA (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98), DHA (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98), and DPA (OR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.98). Participants in the fifth quintile of n-6/n-3 ratio had a positive association with anxiety disorders. Although results suggest a possible protective effect of n-3 fatty acids against anxiety, all associations lost significance after adjustment for multiple comparisons.
The Eye, Oxidative Damage and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids
Authors: Saccà Sergio Claudio , Cutolo Carlo Alberto , Ferrari Daniele , Corazza Paolo , Traverso Carlo Enrico
Published: May 2018

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are known to have numerous beneficial effects, owing to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. From a metabolic standpoint, the mitochondria play a fundamental role in cellular homeostasis, and oxidative stress can affect their functioning. Indeed, the mitochondria are the main source of ROS, and an imbalance between ROS and antioxidant defenses leads to oxidative stress. In addition, aging, the decline of cellular functions, and continual exposure to light underlie many diseases, particularly those of the eye. Long-term exposure to insults, such as UV light, visible light, ionizing radiation, chemotherapeutics, and environmental toxins, contribute to oxidative damage in ocular tissues and expose the aging eye to considerable risk of pathological consequences of oxidative stress. Ample antioxidant defenses responsible for scavenging free radicals are essential for redox homeostasis in the eye, indeed, eye tissues, starting from the tear film, which normally are exposed to high oxygen levels, have strong antioxidant defenses that are efficient for protecting against ROS-related injuries. On the contrary, instead, the trabecular meshwork is not directly exposed to light and its endothelial cells are poorly equipped with antioxidant defenses. All this makes the eye a target organ of oxidative damage. This review focuses on the role of the polyunsaturated fatty acids in the human eye, particularly in such pathologies as dry eye, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, in which dietary PUFA supplementation can be a valid therapeutic aid.
Multi-Jet Electrospinning with Auxiliary Electrode: The Influence of Solution Properties
Authors: Wu Yu-Ke , Wang Liang , Fan Jie , Shou Wan , Zhou Bao-Ming , Liu Yong
Published: May 2018

Multiple jets ejection in electrospinning has been a major approach to achieving a high production rate of ultrafine fibers, also known as nanofibers. This work studies the effect of solution parameters—including dielectric constant, polarity, conductivity and surface tension—on the jet number and jet evolution in the auxiliary electrode electrospinning approach. The results show that it is easier to generate 2–6 jets with short stable jet length (1.7–6.9 mm) under low voltage (5.03–7.13 kV) when solutions have higher dielectric constant (32.2–78.6) and larger surface tension (31.8–41.29 mN/m). The influence of solution properties on stable jet length and the influence of applied voltage to produce multiple jets are discussed in detail. This work provides a new perspective for understanding jet evolution and mass production of nanofibers in electrospinning.
Novel PEG-Modified Hybrid PLGA-Vegetable Oils Nanostructured Carriers for Improving Performances of Indomethacin Delivery
Authors: Ghitman Jana , Stan Raluca , Ghebaur Adi , Cecoltan Sergiu , Vasile Eugeniu , Iovu Horia
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this work was to more exhaustively study the influence of nanocarrier matrix composition and also the polyethylene glycol (PEG)-modified surface on the performances of formulations as lipophilic drug delivery systems. Poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide), two vegetable oils (Nigella sativa oil and Echium oil) and indomethacin were employed to prepare novel PEG-coated nanocarriers through emulsion solvent evaporation method. The surface modification was achieved by physical PEG adsorption (in the post-production step). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) nanographs highlighted the core-shell structure of hybrid formulations while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed no obvious morphological changes after PEG adsorption. Drug loading (DL) and entrapment efficiency (EE) varied from 4.6% to 16.4% and 28.7% to 61.4%, solely depending on the type of polymeric matrix. The oil dispersion within hybrid matrix determined a more amorphous structure, as was emphasized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) investigations. The release studies highlighted the oil effect upon the ability of nanocarrier to discharge in a more sustained manner the encapsulated drug. Among the kinetic models employed, the Weibull and Korsmeyer-Peppas models showed the better fit (R2 = 0.999 and 0.981) with n < 0.43 indicating a Fickian type release pattern. According to cytotoxic assessment the PEG presence on the surface increased the cellular viability with ~1.5 times as compared to uncoated formulations.
Preparation, Physicochemical Properties and Hemocompatibility of Biodegradable Chitooligosaccharide-Based Polyurethane
Authors: Xu Weiwei , Xiao Minghui , Yuan Litong , Zhang Jun , Hou Zhaosheng
Published: May 2018

The purpose of this study was to develop a process to achieve biodegradable chitooligosaccharide-based polyurethane (CPU) with improved hemocompatibility and mechanical properties. A series of CPUs with varying chitooligosaccharide (COS) content were prepared according to the conventional two-step method. First, the prepolymer was synthesized from poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) and uniform-size diurethane diisocyanates (HBH). Then, the prepolymer was chain-extended by COS in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) to obtain the weak-crosslinked CPU, and the corresponding films were obtained from the DMF solution by the solvent evaporation method. The uniform-size hard segments and slight crosslinking of CPU were beneficial for enhancing the mechanical properties, which were one of the essential requirements for long-term implant biomaterials. The chemical structure was characterized by FT-IR, and the influence of COS content in CPU on the physicochemical properties and hemocompatibility was extensively researched. The thermal stability studies indicated that the CPU films had lower initial decomposition temperature and higher maximum decomposition temperature than pure polyurethane (CPU-1.0) film. The ultimate stress, initial modulus, and surface hydrophilicity increased with the increment of COS content, while the strain at break and water absorption decreased, which was due to the increment of crosslinking density. The results of in vitro degradation signified that the degradation rate increased with the increasing content of COS in CPU, demonstrating that the degradation rate could be controlled by adjusting COS content. The surface hemocompatibility was examined by protein adsorption and platelet adhesion tests. It was found that the CPU films had improved resistance to protein adsorption and possessed good resistance to platelet adhesion. The slow degradation rate and good hemocompatibility of the CPUs showed great potential in blood-contacting devices. In addition, many active amino and hydroxyl groups contained in the structure of CPU could carry out further modification, which made it an excellent candidate for wide application in biomedical field.
Time-Series Multispectral Indices from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imagery Reveal Senescence Rate in Bread Wheat
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Adeel , Yang Mengjiao , Rasheed Awais , Jin Xiuliang , Xia Xianchun , Xiao Yonggui , He Zhonghu
Published: May 2018

Detection of senescence’s dynamics in crop breeding is time consuming and needs considerable details regarding its rate of progression and intensity. Normalized difference red-edge index (NDREI) along with four other spectral vegetative indices (SVIs) derived from unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) based spatial imagery, were evaluated for rapid and accurate prediction of senescence. For this, 32 selected winter wheat genotypes were planted under full and limited irrigation treatments. Significant variations for all five SVIs: green normalize difference vegetation index (GNDVI), simple ratio (SR), green chlorophyll index (GCI), red-edge chlorophyll index (RECI), and normalized difference red-edge index (NDREI) among genotypes and between treatments, were observed from heading to late grain filling stages. The SVIs showed strong relationship (R2 = 0.69 to 0.78) with handheld measurements of chlorophyll and leaf area index (LAI), while negatively correlated (R2 = 0.75 to 0.77) with canopy temperature (CT) across the treatments. NDREI as a new SVI showed higher correlations with ground data under both treatments, similarly as exhibited by other four SVIs. There were medium to strong correlations (r = 0.23–0.63) among SVIs, thousand grain weight (TGW) and grain yield (GY) under both treatments. Senescence rate was calculated by decreasing values of SVIs from their peak values at heading stage, while variance for senescence rate among genotypes and between treatments could be explained by SVIs variations. Under limited irrigation, 10% to 15% higher senescence rate was detected as compared with full irrigation. Principle component analysis corroborated the negative association of high senescence rate with TGW and GY. Some genotypes, such as Beijing 0045, Nongda 5181, and Zhongmai 175, were selected with low senescence rate, stable TGW and GY in both full and limited irrigation treatments, nearly in accordance with the actual performance of these cultivars in field. Thus, SVIs derived from UAV appeared as a promising tool for rapid and precise estimation of senescence rate at maturation stages.
Label-Free Detection of Salivary Pepsin Using Gold Nanoparticle/Polypyrrole Nanocoral Modified Screen-Printed Electrode
Authors: Lee Doyeon , Lee Young Ju , Eun Young-Gyu , Lee Gi-Ja
Published: May 2018

Detection of salivary pepsin has been given attention as a new diagnostic tool for laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) disease, because saliva collection is non-invasive and relatively comfortable. In this study, we prepared polypyrrole nanocorals (PPNCs) on a screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) by a soft template synthesis method, using β-naphthalenesulfonic acid (NSA) (for short, PPNCs/SPCE). Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) were then decorated on PPNCs/SPCE by electrodeposition (for short, GNP/PPNCs/SPCE). To construct the immunosensor, pepsin antibody was immobilized on GNP/PPNCs/SPCE. Next, citric acid was applied to prevent non-specific binding and change the electrode surface charge before pepsin incubation. Electrochemical stepwise characterization was performed using cyclic voltammetry, and immunosensor response toward different pepsin concentrations was measured by differential pulsed voltammetry. As a result, our electrochemical immunosensor showed a sensitive detection performance toward pepsin with a linear range from 6.25 to 100 ng/mL and high specificity toward pepsin, as well as a low limit of detection of 2.2 ng/mL. Finally, we quantified the pepsin levels in saliva samples of LPR patients (n = 2), showing that the results were concordant with those of a conventional ELISA method. Therefore, we expect that this electrochemical immunosensor could be helpful for preliminarily diagnosing LPR through the detection of pepsin in saliva.
Assessing the Contribution of Bioeconomy to the Total Economy: A Review of National Frameworks
Authors: Bracco Stefania , Calicioglu Ozgul , Gomez San Juan Marta , Flammini Alessandro
Published: May 2018

Developments in technology have enabled envisioning the derivation of materials and products from renewable biomass as an alternative to finite fossil-based resource consumption. Therefore, bioeconomy is regarded as an opportunity for sustainable economic growth. Countries are formulating strategies in accordance with their goals to attain a bioeconomy. Proper measurement, monitoring, and reporting of the outcomes of these strategies are crucial for long-term success. This study aims to critically evaluate the national methods used for the measurement, monitoring, and reporting of bioeconomy contribution to the total economy. For this purpose, research and surveys have been conducted on selected countries (Argentina, Germany, Malaysia, the Netherlands, South Africa, and the United States). The results reveal that the bioeconomy targets set up in the strategies often reflect the country’s priorities and comparative advantages. However, comprehensive approaches to measure and monitor bioeconomy progress are frequently lacking. Most countries only measure the contribution to gross domestic product (GDP), turnover, and employment of the sectors included in their bioeconomy definition, which may provide an incomplete picture. In addition, this study identifies the mismatch between the targets and measurement methods, as the environmental and social impacts of bioeconomy are often foreseen, but not measured. It is concluded that existing global efforts towards sustainable bioeconomy monitoring can be strengthened and leveraged to measure progress towards sustainable goals.
Hydrogen Supply Chains for Mobility—Environmental and Economic Assessment
Authors: Wulf Christina , Kaltschmitt Martin
Published: May 2018

Hydrogen mobility is one option for reducing local emissions, avoiding greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and moving away from a mainly oil-based transport system towards a diversification of energy sources. As hydrogen production can be based on a broad variety of technologies already existing or under development, a comprehensive assessment of the different supply chains is necessary regarding not only costs but also diverse environmental impacts. Therefore, in this paper, a broad variety of hydrogen production technologies using different energy sources, renewable and fossil, are exemplarily assessed with the help of a Life Cycle Assessment and a cost assessment for Germany. As environmental impacts, along with the impact category Climate change, five more advanced impact categories are assessed. The results show that from an environmental point of view, PEM and alkaline electrolysis are characterized by the lowest results in five out of six impact categories. Supply chains using fossil fuels, in contrast, have the lowest supply costs; this is true, e.g., for steam methane reforming. Solar powered hydrogen production shows low impacts during hydrogen production but high impacts for transport and distribution to Germany. There is no single supply chain that is the most promising for every aspect assessed here. Either costs have to be lowered further or supply chains with selected environmental impacts have to be modified.
Key Factors Affecting Informed Consumers’ Willingness to Pay for Green Housing: A Case Study of Jinan, China
Authors: Zhang Lin , Chen Liwen , Wu Zezhou , Xue Hong , Dong Wenlin
Published: May 2018

In recent years, the issues of large energy consumption and degraded living environments have attracted considerable attention in developed and developing countries. Hence, green housing (GH) has become a popular strategy for achieving sustainable urbanization. The demand in the GH market played an important role in promoting GH. In China, whether potential consumers will pay for GH remains unclear. In this circumstance, this study aims to explore the willingness of construction practitioners, who are regarded to have more knowledge concerning GH, to pay for GH in China. Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), nine critical factors related to practitioners’ willingness to pay (WTP) were examined through face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire survey. A total of 180 construction participants in Jinan were investigated in this study. A binary logistic regression model was used to analyze the collected data. The research finding revealed that only 68 respondents were willing to pay for GH. Four factors showed significant and positive influences in practitioners’ WTP, including environmental awareness, GH comfort, government incentive, and neighbors’/friends’ assessment. By contrast, GH price displayed a significant and negative influence in practitioners’ WTP. The remaining factors, namely, mature GH market, degree of popularity, publicity of GH from developers, and GH affordability, showed insignificant relationships with the practitioners’ WTP. The research findings can provide a helpful reference for policy makers to formulate effective incentive policies in the promotion of GH.
Seismic Performance of a New Type of Fabricated Tie-Column
Authors: Lu Zheng , Zhang Hengrui , Jia Chuanguo , Peng Zhimu
Published: May 2018

The reinforced concrete (RC) frames infilled with masonry walls are widely used in buildings. It has been well recognized that the arrangement of tie-columns can improve the wall integrity and seismic performance. However, the existing cast-in-situ tie-column (CSTC) has some problems, and a new type of fabricated tie-column (FTC) which can be recycled for secondary use is proposed in this study. Two specimens, the wall constrained by the cast-in-situ tie-columns (W-CSTC) and the wall constrained by the fabricated tie-columns (W-FTC), were designed and constructed. Low cyclic loading tests were carried out and some parameters, such as the failure modes, hysteretic curves and so forth, were used to evaluate the applicability of the FTC. The results show the W-FTC has a certain initial stiffness and strength, favorable deformation capacity, and the FTC can not only enhance the wall integrity to meet the functional requirements of tie-columns, but also solve the connection problems and reduce the adverse effects on the frame structure.
Application of CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Editing System on MDV-1 Genome for the Study of Gene Function
Authors: Zhang Yaoyao , Tang Na , Sadigh Yashar , Baigent Susan , Shen Zhiqiang , Nair Venugopal , Yao Yongxiu
Published: May 2018

Marek’s disease virus (MDV) is a member of alphaherpesviruses associated with Marek’s disease, a highly contagious neoplastic disease in chickens. Complete sequencing of the viral genome and recombineering techniques using infectious bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones of Marek’s disease virus genome have identified major genes that are associated with pathogenicity. Recent advances in CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing have given opportunities for precise editing of the viral genome for identifying pathogenic determinants. Here we describe the application of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approaches to delete the Meq and pp38 genes from the CVI988 vaccine strain of MDV. This powerful technology will speed up the MDV gene function studies significantly, leading to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of MDV pathogenesis.
Yeast Derived LysA2 Can Control Bacterial Contamination in Ethanol Fermentation
Authors: Kim Jun-Seob , Daum M. Angela , Jin Yong-Su , Miller Michael J.
Published: May 2018

Contamination of fuel-ethanol fermentations continues to be a significant problem for the corn and sugarcane-based ethanol industries. In particular, members of the Lactobacillaceae family are the primary bacteria of concern. Currently, antibiotics and acid washing are two major means of controlling contaminants. However, antibiotic use could lead to increased antibiotic resistance, and the acid wash step stresses the fermenting yeast and has limited effectiveness. Bacteriophage endolysins such as LysA2 are lytic enzymes with the potential to contribute as antimicrobials to the fuel ethanol industries. Our goal was to evaluate the potential of yeast-derived LysA2 as a means of controlling Lactobacillaceae contamination. LysA2 intracellularly produced by Pichia pastoris showed activity comparable to Escherichia coli produced LysA2. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) with the A4α peptidoglycan chemotype (L-Lys-D-Asp crosslinkage) were the most sensitive to LysA2, though a few from that chemotype were insensitive. Pichia-expressed LysA2, both secreted and intracellularly produced, successfully improved ethanol productivity and yields in glucose (YPD60) and sucrose-based (sugarcane juice) ethanol fermentations in the presence of a LysA2 susceptible LAB contaminant. LysA2 secreting Sacharomyces cerevisiae did not notably improve production in sugarcane juice, but it did control bacterial contamination during fermentation in YPD60. Secretion of LysA2 by the fermenting yeast, or adding it in purified form, are promising alternative tools to control LAB contamination during ethanol fermentation. Endolysins with much broader lytic spectrums than LysA2 could supplement or replace the currently used antibiotics or the acidic wash.
Detention and Retention Behavior of Four Extensive Green Roofs in Three Nordic Climate Zones
Authors: Johannessen Birgitte Gisvold , Muthanna Tone Merete , Braskerud Bent Christen
Published: May 2018

Climate change coupled with increasing urbanization has made extensive green roofs, both for retrofitting and new developments, an attractive way to bring nature back to cities, while managing stormwater. This study has investigated extensive green roof retention and detention performance based on 3–8 years of field data from four Norwegian locations representing typical cold and wet Nordic climates, also comparing several different commercial configurations. Accumulated retention was found to be 11–30% annually and 22–46% in May through October. The performance was found to be strongly dependent in evapotranspiration and less dependent on material storage capacities. Estimates for available storage capacities for precipitation events larger than 5 mm are given and can be useful for design purposes. Median observed peak attenuation compared to the precipitation ranged from 65–90% depending on locations and configurations. The event-based approach for evaluating detention was found to be challenging due to the nature of the precipitation in the studied locations. An alternative approach using flow duration curves based on the observed time series was tested and found to give valuable information on runoff patterns from green roofs and to be useful for evaluating green roof performance in relation to local requirements.
Mobility from Renewable Electricity: Infrastructure Comparison for Battery and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicles
Authors: Ligen Yorick , Vrubel Heron , Girault Hubert
Published: May 2018

This work presents a detailed breakdown of the energy conversion chains from intermittent electricity to a vehicle, considering battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). The traditional well-to-wheel analysis is adapted to a grid to mobility approach by introducing the intermediate steps of useful electricity, energy carrier and on-board storage. Specific attention is given to an effective coupling with renewable electricity sources and associated storage needs. Actual market data show that, compared to FCEVs, BEVs and their infrastructure are twice as efficient in the conversion of renewable electricity to a mobility service. A much larger difference between BEVs and FCEVs is usually reported in the literature. Focusing on recharging events, this work additionally shows that the infrastructure efficiencies of both electric vehicle (EV) types are very close, with 57% from grid to on-board storage for hydrogen refilling stations and 66% for fast chargers coupled with battery storage. The transfer from the energy carrier at the station to on-board storage in the vehicle accounts for 9% and 12% of the total energy losses of these two modes, respectively. Slow charging modes can achieve a charging infrastructure efficiency of 78% with residential energy storage systems coupled with AC chargers.
Données bio-écologiques sur deux espèces jumelles sympatriques en milieux agricoles : Oulema melanopus (L.) et Oulema duftschmidi (Redtenbacher) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Chapelin-Viscardi Jean-David , Maillet-mézeray Julie
Published: May 2018

Bio-ecological data on two sympatric sibling species in arable crops : Oulema melanopus (L.) and O. duftschmidi (Redtenbacher) (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae).

A trapping campaign, using Malaise and cornet traps, was carried out in arable crops in the Beauce area (District of Erceville, Department of Loiret) and in the Gâtinais area (District of Boigneville and Maisse, Department of Essonne). It permits to identify two sympatric sibling species of Leaf beetles : Oulema melanopus and O. duftschmidi. Both species represent a potential pest in cereal fields. 4,309 individuals were collected and studied. The results show that there are more females than males (sex ratio of 0.63) catched with interception traps. Among males, 67.7 % belong to O. duftschmidi and 32.3 % belong to O. melanopus. Furthermore, regular captures indicate that the two species have a completely similar flight activity between the end of April and mid-October.
Interception de Monochamus galloprovincialis (Olivier, 1795) (Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Monochamini) en Nouvelle-Calédonie
Authors: Mille Christian , Cazeres Sylvie , Sudre Jérôme
Published: May 2018

Interception of Monochamus galloprovincialis (Olivier, 1795) (Cerambycidae, Lamiinae, Monochamini) in New Caledonia.

A dead specimen of Monochamus galloprovincialis was found at the opening of a parcel imported from the South of France. The dangers of such an introduction are recalled regarding the status of New Caledonia as a biodiversity hotspot and the Pinus caribaea plantations. The main threat brought by this insect is its vector status of the Nematode Wood Pine Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, which has already established some populations outside its region of origin.
Recent Advances in Whale-Watching Research: 2017–2018
Authors: Parsons E. C. M. , Smith Courtney E.
Published: May 2018

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study, from monitoring the biological impacts of whale-watching activities on cetaceans and assessments of the effectiveness of whale-watching management and regulations, to the sociological and economic
aspects of whale watching. This article is the latest in a series of annual digests, which describes the variety and findings of whale-watching studies published over the past year, since June 2017.
DISCOVERING WHAT MAKES A SME WEBSITE GOOD FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Authors: AKMAN Engin , DAGDEVIREN Metin
Published: May 2018

The effectiveness of websites has an impact on the representation of a SME and can have an effect on foreign trade. Thus, developing a reliable and robust model to assess the effectiveness of SME websites is important for researchers and practitioners. The aim of the study is to propose a SME website efficiency evaluation methodology from an international trade perspective. Determining the effectiveness of websites is a multi-dimensional decision-making problem which encompasses the assessment of information quality, system quality, and service quality. The criteria and sub-criteria affecting website effectiveness were determined through literature research and expert panel assistance. AHP method was utilized to determine the relative weights of the evaluation criteria in the study. Then, fuzzy linguistic variables were adopted to rank the websites of SMEs engaged in foreign trade. The proposed evaluation model identifies key factors regarding the criteria and sub-criteria of a website effectiveness. The model can provide a helpful reference in designing useful websites which are an important task for SMEs involved in international trade.
Recovery Schemes for Primitive Variables in General-relativistic Magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Siegel Daniel M. , Mösta Philipp , Desai Dhruv , Wu Samantha
Published: May 2018

General-relativistic magnetohydrodynamic (GRMHD) simulations are an important tool to study a variety of astrophysical systems such as neutron star mergers, core-collapse supernovae, and accretion onto compact objects. A conservative GRMHD scheme numerically evolves a set of conservation equations for “conserved” quantities and requires the computation of certain primitive variables at every time step. This recovery procedure constitutes a core part of any conservative GRMHD scheme and it is closely tied to the equation of state (EOS) of the fluid. In the quest to include nuclear physics, weak interactions, and neutrino physics, state-of-the-art GRMHD simulations employ finite-temperature, composition-dependent EOSs. While different schemes have individually been proposed, the recovery problem still remains a major source of error, failure, and inefficiency in GRMHD simulations with advanced microphysics. The strengths and weaknesses of the different schemes when compared to each other remain unclear. Here we present the first systematic comparison of various recovery schemes used in different dynamical spacetime GRMHD codes for both analytic and tabulated microphysical EOSs. We assess the schemes in terms of (i) speed, (ii) accuracy, and (iii) robustness. We find large variations among the different schemes and that there is not a single ideal scheme. While the computationally most efficient schemes are less robust, the most robust schemes are computationally less efficient. More robust schemes may require an order of magnitude more calls to the EOS, which are computationally expensive. We propose an optimal strategy of an efficient three-dimensional Newton–Raphson scheme and a slower but more robust one-dimensional scheme as a fall-back.
Detection of Intrinsic Source Structure at ∼3 Schwarzschild Radii with Millimeter-VLBI Observations of SAGITTARIUS A*
Authors: Lu Ru-Sen , Krichbaum Thomas P. , Roy Alan L. , Fish Vincent L. , Doeleman Sheperd S. , Johnson Michael D. , Akiyama Kazunori , Psaltis Dimitrios , Alef Walter , Asada Keiichi , Beaudoin Christopher , Bertarini Alessandra , Blackburn Lindy , Blundell Ray , Bower Geoffrey C. , Brinkerink Christiaan , Broderick Avery E. , Cappallo Roger , Crew Geoffrey B. , Dexter Jason , Dexter Matt , Falcke Heino , Freund Robert , Friberg Per , Greer Christopher H. , Gurwell Mark A. , Ho Paul T. P. , Honma Mareki , Inoue Makoto , Kim Junhan , Lamb James , Lindqvist Michael , Macmahon David , Marrone Daniel P. , Martí-Vidal Ivan , Menten Karl M. , Moran James M. , Nagar Neil M. , Plambeck Richard L. , Primiani Rurik A. , Rogers Alan E. E. , Ros Eduardo , Rottmann Helge , SooHoo Jason , Spilker Justin , Stone Jordan , Strittmatter Peter , Tilanus Remo P. J. , Titus Michael , Vertatschitsch Laura , Wagner Jan , Weintroub Jonathan , Wright Melvyn , Young Ken H. , Zensus J. Anton , Ziurys Lucy M.
Published: May 2018

We report results from very long baseline interferometric (VLBI) observations of the supermassive black hole in the Galactic center, Sgr A*, at 1.3 mm (230 GHz). The observations were performed in 2013 March using six VLBI stations in Hawaii, California, Arizona, and Chile. Compared to earlier observations, the addition of the APEX telescope in Chile almost doubles the longest baseline length in the array, provides additional uv coverage in the N–S direction, and leads to a spatial resolution of ∼30 μas (∼3 Schwarzschild radii) for Sgr A*. The source is detected even at the longest baselines with visibility amplitudes of ∼4%–13% of the total flux density. We argue that such flux densities cannot result from interstellar refractive scattering alone, but indicate the presence of compact intrinsic source structure on scales of ∼3 Schwarzschild radii. The measured nonzero closure phases rule out point-symmetric emission. We discuss our results in the context of simple geometric models that capture the basic characteristics and brightness distributions of disk- and jet-dominated models and show that both can reproduce the observed data. Common to these models are the brightness asymmetry, the orientation, and characteristic sizes, which are comparable to the expected size of the black hole shadow. Future 1.3 mm VLBI observations with an expanded array and better sensitivity will allow more detailed imaging of the horizon-scale structure and bear the potential for a deep insight into the physical processes at the black hole boundary.
Delayed Shock-induced Dust Formation in the Dense Circumstellar Shell Surrounding the Type IIn Supernova SN 2010jl
Authors: Sarangi Arkaprabha , Dwek Eli , Arendt Richard G.
Published: May 2018

The light curves of Type IIn supernovae are dominated by the radiative energy released through the interaction of the supernova shock waves with their dense circumstellar medium (CSM). The ultraluminous Type IIn supernova SN 2010jl exhibits an infrared emission component that is in excess of the extrapolated UV–optical spectrum as early as few weeks postexplosion. This emission has been considered by some as evidence for the rapid formation of dust in the cooling postshock CSM. We investigate the physical processes that may inhibit or facilitate the formation of dust in the CSM. When only radiative cooling is considered, the temperature of the dense shocked gas rapidly drops below the dust condensation temperature. However, by accounting for the heating of the postshock gas by the downstream radiation from the shock, we show that dust formation is inhibited until the radiation from the shock weakens as it propagates into the less dense outer regions of the CSM. In SN 2010jl, dust formation can therefore only commence after day ∼380. Only the IR emission since that epoch can be attributed to the newly formed CSM dust. Observations on day 460 and later show that the IR luminosity exceeds the UV–optical luminosity. The postshock dust cannot extinct the radiation emitted by the expanding SN shock. Therefore, its IR emission must be powered by an interior source, which we identify as the reverse shock propagating through the SN ejecta. IR emission before day  380 must therefore be an IR echo from preexisting CSM dust.
Anisotropic Magnetohydrodynamic Turbulence Driven by Parametric Decay Instability: The Onset of Phase Mixing and Alfvén Wave Turbulence
Authors: Shoda Munehito , Yokoyama Takaaki
Published: May 2018

We conduct a 3D magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulation of the parametric decay instability of Alfvén waves and resultant compressible MHD turbulence, which is likely to develop in the solar wind acceleration region. Because of the presence of the mean magnetic field, the nonlinear stage is characterized by filament-like structuring and anisotropic cascading. By calculating the timescales of phase mixing and the evolution of Alfvén wave turbulence, we have found that the early nonlinear stage is dominated by phase mixing, while the later phase is dominated by imbalanced Alfvén wave turbulence. Our results indicate that the regions in the solar atmosphere with large density fluctuation, such as the coronal bottom and wind acceleration region, are heated by phase-mixed Alfvén waves, while the other regions are heated by Alfvén wave turbulence.
Methodological aspects of ecosystem service valuation at the national level
Authors: Vačkář David , Grammatikopoulou Ioanna , Daněk Jan , Lorencová Eliška
Published: May 2018

Ecosystem service valuations focusing on the assessment of ecosystem service values in space and time have recently been receiving considerable attention. Ecosystem service valuation data are critical for developing national ecosystem accounts and for assessment of costs and benefits associated with national strategies and plans. In this article, we discuss selected methodological aspects of ecosystem service valuation at the national level for the Czech Republic. We present a classification of ecosystems based on CORINE Land Cover and Consolidated Layer of Ecosystems of the Czech Republic. The focal point of our article is a systematic review of ecosystem service values. A systematic review requires a standardised protocol for incorporation of valuation studies. To illustrate the proposed methodology, we conducted a search of ecosystem service valuation studies at the European level. While there is a significant number of ecosystem service valuation studies, the number of studies which could be used for an effective value transfer is limited. We discuss the limitations of the value transfer approach and suggest further steps for improving the scientific basis for national level valuations.
Richard de Saint-Victor : Quomodo Christus ponitur in signum populorum
Authors: Bužek Radomír
Published: May 2018

Cet article présente une édition critique moderne – préparée d’après les deux manuscrits conservés – du Quomodo Christus ponitur in signum populorum de Richard de Saint-Victor († 1173). Bien qu’il s’agisse d’un écrit ou, plus exactement, d’un sermon, très bref, basé sur le verset d’Is 11,10, son importance dans l’œuvre de Richard est considérable. Du point de vue historique, il est à mettre en relation avec la querelle autour de l’interprétation des prophéties d’Isaïe, dont le De Emmanuele du même Richard est un témoin remarquable. L’édition est précédée par une étude introductive, où sont examinés les aspects littéraires et théologiques du sermon, ainsi que la tradition manuscrite et imprimée.
La Practica fratris du ms. Munich, Clm 267 : une lecture d’Avicenne par un religieux au xiii e siècle ?
Authors: Moulinier-Brogi Laurence
Published: May 2018

Le ms. Clm 267 de la Bayerische Staatsbibliothek de Munich, qui date du xiv e  siècle, renferme entre autres un traité inédit intitulé Practica fratris , originaire de Vénétie et dénotant une étonnante connaissance des autorités médicales de son temps. Reflète-t-il pour autant la pratique et la culture médicale d’un religieux italien à la fin du xiii e  siècle ? C’est ce que cet article examine, en présentant ce texte et son contexte, et en émettant des hypothèses sur son origine, son auteur et l’étendue de sa culture médicale ; il en donne ensuite une édition.
Le concept d’« ambiance » à l’épreuve de la vie ordinaire
Authors: Chauvier Éric
Published: May 2018

Résumé Nous considérons une approche pragmatique de la science afin de comprendre l’« ambiance » comme un mot et non comme une réalité présupposée ou déjà-là. Ce mot peut ensuite être considéré par sa capacité à classer le réel donné à la conscience, ce qui revient à tester la valeur classificatoire de la catégorie « ambiance » dans la vie ordinaire. Apparaissent la relativité d’un concept urbano- et occidentalo-centré, mais aussi, in fine , les ressources heuristiques d’un programme de recherche axé sur le « cassage » des ambiances.