bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative Storage Environments for Shelled Peanuts
Authors: Butts C.L. , Lamb M.C. , Sorensen R.B. , Powell S. , Cowart D. , Horm K. , Anthony B. , Bennett J.
Published: August 2017

Studies were conducted in small chambers and commercial storage facilities to evaluate the effect of storing shelled peanuts at 3, 13, and 21 C (38, 55, 70 F) for one year. Shelled medium runner peanuts from the 2014 crop were placed in the three different environments in Feb 2015, sampled at 60-d intervals until Feb 2016 (364 days). Difficulty maintaining the desired relative humidity of 65% in the 3 C unit, led to unacceptable mold growth and severely degraded seed germination. Peanuts stored at 21 C developed an infestation of Indian meal moth after 238 d in storage rendering the samples unsuitable for sensory analysis from that point forward. The infestation most likely occurred due to hatches of eggs that were present in the original samples. Sensory analyses showed very little change in the intensity of the Roasted Peanut flavor characteristic in either storage environments. There were no unacceptable increases in free fatty acids or peroxide values during the 1-yr storage period for peanuts stored at 13 C. The percent free fatty acids in peanuts stored at 13 C remained well below 1% throughout the 1-yr study. Commercial studies were conducted from Feb 2015 through Mar 2016. Six 60-d runs were conducted where three totes of medium runner peanuts from the same manufacturing lot were placed in commercial cold storage facilities maintained at 3 and 13 C. There were no differences in the initial moisture content of peanuts when placed in the two storage environments. However, after 30 and 60-d storage, the peanuts stored at 13 C tended to be an average of 0.3% dryer than those stored at 3 C. The peanuts had the highest increase in moisture between June and August 2015, with the moisture content after 30 and 60 d storage at 3 C averaged 8.1 and 7.7%, respectively. The peanuts stored in the 13 C environment averaged 7.6 and 7.3% moisture content after 30 and 60 d in storage, respectively. This study has shown that shelled peanuts can be stored for up to one year with no detrimental effects at temperatures up to 13 C and relative humidity ranging from 55 to 70%. Based on this research, the recommended temperature for storing shelled peanuts can be increased to 13 C, while maintaining the relative humidity between 55 and 70%.
Fate and Prediction of Phenolic Secoiridoid Compounds throughout the Different Stages of the Virgin Olive Oil Making Process
Authors: Fregapane Giuseppe , Salvador M.
Published: August 2017

The evolution of the main phenolic secoiridoid compounds throughout the different stages of the virgin olive oil making process—crushing, malaxation and liquid-solid separation—is studied here, with the goal of making possible the prediction of the partition and transformation that take place in the different steps of the process. The concentration of hydroxytyrosol secoiridoids produced under the different crushing conditions studied are reasonably proportional to the intensity of the milling stage, and strongly depend on the olive variety processed. During malaxation, the content of the main phenolic secoiridoids is reduced, especially in the case of the hydroxytyrosol derivatives, in which a variety-dependent behaviour is observed. The prediction of the concentration of phenolic secoiridoids finally transferred from the kneaded paste to the virgin olive oil is also feasible, and depends on the phenolic content and amount of water in the olive paste. The determination of the phenolic compounds in the olive fruit, olive paste and olive oil has been carried out by LC-MS (Liquid-Chromatography Mass-Spectrometry). This improved knowledge could help in the use of more adequate processing conditions for the production of virgin olive oil with desired properties; for example, higher or lower phenolic content, as the amount of these minor components is directly related to its sensory, antioxidant and healthy properties.
Point-of-Care-Testing in Acute Stroke Management: An Unmet Need Ripe for Technological Harvest
Authors: Harpaz Dorin , Eltzov Evgeni , Seet Raymond C.S. , Marks Robert S. , Tok Alfred I.Y.
Published: August 2017

Stroke, the second highest leading cause of death, is caused by an abrupt interruption of blood to the brain. Supply of blood needs to be promptly restored to salvage brain tissues from irreversible neuronal death. Existing assessment of stroke patients is based largely on detailed clinical evaluation that is complemented by neuroimaging methods. However, emerging data point to the potential use of blood-derived biomarkers in aiding clinical decision-making especially in the diagnosis of ischemic stroke, triaging patients for acute reperfusion therapies, and in informing stroke mechanisms and prognosis. The demand for newer techniques to deliver individualized information on-site for incorporation into a time-sensitive work-flow has become greater. In this review, we examine the roles of a portable and easy to use point-of-care-test (POCT) in shortening the time-to-treatment, classifying stroke subtypes and improving patient’s outcome. We first examine the conventional stroke management workflow, then highlight situations where a bedside biomarker assessment might aid clinical decision-making. A novel stroke POCT approach is presented, which combines the use of quantitative and multiplex POCT platforms for the detection of specific stroke biomarkers, as well as data-mining tools to drive analytical processes. Further work is needed in the development of POCTs to fulfill an unmet need in acute stroke management.
The Fetus Can Teach Us: Oxygen and the Pulmonary Vasculature
Authors: Vali Payam , Lakshminrusimha Satyan
Published: August 2017

Neonates suffering from pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) continue to represent an important proportion of patients requiring intensive neonatal care, and have an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The human fetus has evolved to maintain a high pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) in utero to allow the majority of the fetal circulation to bypass the lungs, which do not participate in gas exchange, towards the low resistance placenta. At birth, oxygen plays a major role in decreasing PVR to enhance pulmonary blood flow and establish the lungs as the organ of gas exchange. The failure of PVR to fall following birth results in PPHN, and oxygen remains the mainstay therapeutic intervention in the management of PPHN. Knowledge gaps on what constitutes the optimal oxygenation target leads to a wide variation in practices, and often leads to excessive oxygen use. Owing to the risk of oxygen toxicity, avoiding hyperoxemia is as important as avoiding hypoxemia in the management of PPHN. Current evidence supports maintaining arterial oxygen tension in the range of 50–80 mm Hg, and oxygen saturation between 90–97% in term infants with hypoxemic respiratory failure. Clinical studies evaluating the optimal oxygenation in the treatment of PPHN will be enthusiastically awaited.
Evaluation of Voltage Control Approaches for Future Smart Distribution Networks
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Yi Jialiang , Zangiabadi Mansoureh , Lyons Pádraig , Taylor Phil
Published: August 2017

This paper evaluates meta-heuristic and deterministic approaches for distribution network voltage control. As part of this evaluation, a novel meta-heuristic algorithm, Cuckoo Search, is applied for distribution network voltage control and compared with a deterministic voltage control algorithm, the oriented discrete coordinate decent method (ODCDM). ODCDM has been adopted in a state-of-the-art industrial product and applied in real distribution networks. These two algorithms have been evaluated under a set of test cases, which were generated to represent the voltage control problems in current and future distribution networks. Sampled test results have been presented, and findings have been discussed regarding the adoption of different optimization algorithms for current and future distribution networks.
Design and Construction of 1 MW Class Floating PV Generation Structural System Using FRP Members
Authors: Kim Sun-Hee , Yoon Soon-Jong , Choi Wonchang
Published: August 2017

The paper investigates overview of construction process of a 1 MW class floating photovoltaic (PV) generation structural system fabricated with fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) members. The floating PV generation system consists of unit structures linked by a hinge type connection of which the effect of bending moment between the unit structures, induced by the unstable movement of the water surface, was minimized. Moreover, the unit structures were classified into three types of structures by combining the floating PV generation system and pontoon bridges, which are constructed to install the electrical equipment and a route of movement for workers. The structural safety of the connection system among the unit structures and/or the mooring system is confirmed by referring to the relevant design codes. In addition, structural analysis using the finite element method was performed to ensure the safety of the floating PV generation structure, and commercial viability evaluation was performed based on the construction cost. The FRP member shows superior performance in construction and cost effectiveness in a floating PV generation system.
Trends and Changes in Recent and Future Penman-Monteith Potential Evapotranspiration in Benin (West Africa)
Authors: Obada Ezéchiel , Alamou Eric , Chabi Amedée , Zandagba Josué , Afouda Abel
Published: August 2017

In this study, the recent variability of the annual potential evapotranspiration (PET) of six synoptic stations of Benin was carried out. The future changes of PET under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios were also quantified under three different projected periods (P1 = 2011–2040, P2 = 2041–2070 and P3 = 2071–2100) compared to the reference period (1981–2010). The results show a high variability of PET at all stations over the baseline period with alternating of deficit and excess periods. The Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) scenarios indicate that annual PET gradually increase and reach its maximum on 2100. However, PET’s changes from the two forcing scenarios start to diverge only around 2070 and this divergence is maximal on 2100. The rates of changes related to the baseline period vary from 2 to 7% for P1 and both scenarios, 5 to 10% for P2 and both scenarios, 7 to 12% for P3 and RCP4.5 scenario and 15 to 20% for P3 and RCP8.5 scenario. At seasonal scale, the results show a progressive increase (from 15 to 25% related to the baseline period) of PET until 2100 for January, February, June, July and December. In April, May, August, September and October, there is a slight decrease (from −5 to 0%) of PET according to RCP4.5 scenario while there is a slight increase (0 to 5%) for RCP8.5 scenario.
Association between Mastication, the Hippocampus, and the HPA Axis: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Azuma Kagaku , Zhou Qian , Niwa Masami , Kubo Kin-ya
Published: August 2017

Mastication is mainly involved in food intake and nutrient digestion with the aid of teeth. Mastication is also important for preserving and promoting general health, including hippocampus-dependent cognition. Both animal and human studies indicate that mastication influences hippocampal functions through the end product of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, glucocorticoid (GC). Epidemiologic studies suggest that masticatory dysfunction in aged individuals, such as that resulting from tooth loss and periodontitis, acting as a source of chronic stress, activates the HPA axis, leading to increases in circulating GCs and eventually inducing various physical and psychological diseases, such as cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disorders, and osteoporosis. Recent studies demonstrated that masticatory stimulation or chewing during stressful conditions suppresses the hyperactivity of the HPA axis via GCs and GC receptors within the hippocampus, and ameliorates chronic stress-induced hippocampus-dependent cognitive deficits. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of current research regarding the association between mastication, the hippocampus, and HPA axis activity. We also discuss several potential molecular mechanisms involved in the interactions between mastication, hippocampal function, and HPA axis activity.
Bacterial Phytochromes, Cyanobacteriochromes and Allophycocyanins as a Source of Near-Infrared Fluorescent Probes
Authors: Oliinyk Olena , Chernov Konstantin , Verkhusha Vladislav
Published: August 2017

Bacterial photoreceptors absorb light energy and transform it into intracellular signals that regulate metabolism. Bacterial phytochrome photoreceptors (BphPs), some cyanobacteriochromes (CBCRs) and allophycocyanins (APCs) possess the near-infrared (NIR) absorbance spectra that make them promising molecular templates to design NIR fluorescent proteins (FPs) and biosensors for studies in mammalian cells and whole animals. Here, we review structures, photochemical properties and molecular functions of several families of bacterial photoreceptors. We next analyze molecular evolution approaches to develop NIR FPs and biosensors. We then discuss phenotypes of current BphP-based NIR FPs and compare them with FPs derived from CBCRs and APCs. Lastly, we overview imaging applications of NIR FPs in live cells and in vivo. Our review provides guidelines for selection of existing NIR FPs, as well as engineering approaches to develop NIR FPs from the novel natural templates such as CBCRs.
Regulation of Chemokine Function: The Roles of GAG-Binding and Post-Translational Nitration
Authors: Thompson Sarah , Martínez-Burgo Beatriz , Sepuru Krishna , Rajarathnam Krishna , Kirby John , Sheerin Neil , Ali Simi
Published: August 2017

The primary function of chemokines is to direct the migration of leukocytes to the site of injury during inflammation. The effects of chemokines are modulated by several means, including binding to G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), binding to glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and through post-translational modifications (PTMs). GAGs, present on cell surfaces, bind chemokines released in response to injury. Chemokines bind leukocytes via their GPCRs, which directs migration and contributes to local inflammation. Studies have shown that GAGs or GAG-binding peptides can be used to interfere with chemokine binding and reduce leukocyte recruitment. Post-translational modifications of chemokines, such as nitration, which occurs due to the production of reactive species during oxidative stress, can also alter their biological activity. This review describes the regulation of chemokine function by GAG-binding ability and by post-translational nitration. These are both aspects of chemokine biology that could be targeted if the therapeutic potential of chemokines, like CXCL8, to modulate inflammation is to be realised.
Preparation and Evaluation of Dexamethasone (DEX)/Growth and Differentiation Factor-5 (GDF-5) Surface-Modified Titanium Using β-Cyclodextrin-Conjugated Heparin (CD-Hep) for Enhanced Osteogenic Activity In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Yang Dae , Yoon Sun-Jung , Lee Deok-Won
Published: August 2017

The most ideal implant models in the dental and orthopedic fields to minimize the failure rate of implantation involve the improvement of osseointegration with host bone. Therefore, a focus of this study is the preparation of surface-modified titanium (Ti) samples of disc and screw types using dexamethasone (DEX) and/or growth and differentiation factor-5 (GDF-5), as well as the evaluation of their efficacies on bone formation in vitro and in vivo. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and contact angle measurement were used to evaluate the surface chemical composition, surface morphology and wettability, respectively. The results showed that implant surfaces were successfully modified with DEX and/or GDF-5, and had rough surfaces along with hydrophilicity. DEX, GDF-5 or DEX/GDF-5 on the surface-modified samples were rapidly released within one day and released for 28 days in a sustained manner. The proliferation and bone formation of MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on pristine and surface-modified implants in vitro were examined by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay, as well as the measurements of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium deposition, respectively. MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on DEX/GDF-5–Ti showed noticeable ALP activity and calcium deposition in vitro. Active bone formation and strong osseointegration occurred at the interface between DEX/GDF-5–Ti and host bone, as evaluated by micro computed-tomography (micro CT) analysis. Surface modification using DEX/GDF-5 could be a good method for advanced implants for orthopaedic and dental applications.
Herbal Supplement in a Buffer for Dry Eye Syndrome Treatment
Authors: Chen Hung-Chang , Chen Zhi-Yu , Wang Tsung-Jen , Drew Victor , Tseng Ching-Li , Fang Hsu-Wei , Lin Feng-Huei
Published: August 2017

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is one of the most common types of ocular diseases. There is a major need to treat DES in a simple yet efficient way. Artificial tears (AT) are the most commonly used agents for treating DES, but are not very effective. Herbal extractions of ferulic acid (FA), an anti-oxidant agent, and kaempferol (KM), an anti-inflammatory reagent, were added to buffer solution (BS) to replace ATs for DES treatment. The cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory effects were examined in vitro by co-culture with human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs) to obtain the optimal concentration of KM and FA for treating HCECs. Physical properties of BS, such as pH value, osmolality, and refractive index were also examined. Then, rabbits with DES were used for therapeutic evaluation. Tear production, corneal damage, and ocular irritation in rabbits’ eyes were examined. The non-toxic concentrations of KM and FA for HCEC cultivation over 3 days were 1 µM and 100 µM, respectively. Live/dead stain results also show non-toxicity of KM and FA for treating HCECs. Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated HCECs in inflammatory conditions treated with 100 µM FA and 1 µM KM (FA100/KM1) showed lower IL-1B, IL-6, IL-8, and TNFα expression when examined by real-time PCR. The BS with FA100/KM1 had neutral pH, and a similar osmolality and refractive index to human tears. Topical delivery of BS + FA100/KM1 showed no irritation to rabbit eyes. The corneal thickness in the BS + FA100/KM1 treated group was comparable to normal eyes. Results of DES rabbits treated with BS + FA100/KM1 showed less corneal epithelial damage and higher tear volume than the normal group. In conclusion, we showed that the combination of FA (100 µM) and KM (1 µM) towards treating inflamed HCECs had an anti-inflammatory effect, and it is effective in treating DES rabbits when BS is added in combination with these two herbal supplements and used as a topical eye drop.
Scar Prevention and Enhanced Wound Healing Induced by Polydeoxyribonucleotide in a Rat Incisional Wound-Healing Model
Authors: Jeong Woonhyeok , Yang Chae Eun , Roh Tai Suk , Kim Jun Hyung , Lee Ju Hee , Lee Won Jai
Published: August 2017

High-mobility group box protein-1 (HMGB-1) plays a central role in the inflammatory network, and uncontrolled chronic inflammation can lead to excessive scarring. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN) on scar formation. Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 30) underwent dorsal excision of the skin, followed by skin repair. PDRN (8 mg/kg) was administered via intraperitoneal injection for three (PDRN-3 group, n = 8) or seven (PDRN-7 group, n = 8) days, and HMGB-1 was administered via intradermal injection in addition to PDRN treatment for three days (PDRN-3+HMGB-1 group; n = 6). The scar-reducing effects of PDRN were evaluated in the internal scar area and by inflammatory cell counts using histology and immunohistochemistry. Western blot, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence assays were performed to observe changes in type I and type III collagen and the expression of HMGB-1 and CD45. Treatment with PDRN significantly reduced the scar area, inflammatory cell infiltration and the number of CD45-positive cells. In addition, the increased expression of HMGB-1 observed in the sham group was significantly reduced after treatment with PDRN. Rats administered HMGB-1 in addition to PDRN exhibited scar areas with inflammatory cell infiltration similar to the sham group, and the collagen synthesis effects of PDRN were reversed. In summary, PDRN exerts anti-inflammatory and collagen synthesis effects via HMGB-1 suppression, preventing scar formation. Thus, we believe that the anti-inflammatory and collagen synthesis effects of PDRN resulted in faster wound healing and decreased scar formation.
The Quantified Characterization Method of the Micro-Macro Contacts of Three-Dimensional Granular Materials on the Basis of Graph Theory
Authors: Guan Yanpeng , Wang Enzhi , Liu Xiaoli , Wang Sijing , Luan Hebing
Published: August 2017

We have attempted a multiscale and quantified characterization method of the contact in three-dimensional granular material made of spherical particles, particularly in cemented granular material. Particle contact is defined as a type of surface contact with voids in its surroundings, rather than a point contact. Macro contact is a particle contact set satisfying the restrictive condition of a two-dimensional manifold with a boundary. On the basis of graph theory, two dual geometrical systems are abstracted from the granular pack. The face and the face set, which satisfies the two-dimensional manifold with a boundary in the solid cell system, are extracted to characterize the particle contact and the macro contact, respectively. This characterization method is utilized to improve the post-processing in DEM (Discrete Element Method) from a micro perspective to describe the macro effect of the cemented granular material made of spherical particles. Since the crack has the same shape as its corresponding contact, this method is adopted to characterize the crack and realize its visualization. The integral failure route of the sample can be determined by a graph theory algorithm. The contact force is assigned to the weight value of the face characterizing the particle contact. Since the force vectors can be added, the macro contact force can be solved by adding the weight of its corresponding faces.
Deformation Structure and Mechanical Properties of Pure Titanium Produced by Rotary-Die Equal-Channel Angular Pressing
Authors: Gu Yanxia , Ma Aibin , Jiang Jinghua , Yuan Yuchun , Li Huiyun
Published: August 2017

Pure titanium was efficiently processed up to four passes at 420 °C by rotary-die equal-channel angular pressing (RD-ECAP). The deformation structure and mechanical properties of pure titanium with various RD-ECAP passes were subsequently investigated. Microstructure evolution revealed that plastic deformation was accommodated mainly by twins during the first and second passes, while the predominant deformation mechanism was dislocation slip during the third and fourth passes. { 10 1 ¯ 2 } twins were detected in the first pass, and { 10 1 ¯ 1 } twins occurred in the second pass of RD-ECAP. The ultimate tensile strength of pure titanium increased from 450 MPa in the as-received state to 627 MPa with a fracture elongation of 29% after four passes of RD-ECAP.
Effects of Metal Micro and Nano-Particles on hASCs: An In Vitro Model
Authors: Palombella Silvia , Pirrone Cristina , Rossi Federica , Armenia Ilaria , Cherubino Mario , Valdatta Luigi , Raspanti Mario , Bernardini Giovanni , Gornati Rosalba
Published: August 2017

As the knowledge about the interferences of nanomaterials on human staminal cells are scarce and contradictory, we undertook a comparative multidisciplinary study based on the size effect of zero-valent iron, cobalt, and nickel microparticles (MPs) and nanoparticles (NPs) using human adipose stem cells (hASCs) as a model, and evaluating cytotoxicity, morphology, cellular uptake, and gene expression. Our results suggested that the medium did not influence the cell sensitivity but, surprisingly, the iron microparticles (FeMPs) resulted in being toxic. These data were supported by modifications in mRNA expression of some genes implicated in the inflammatory response. Microscopic analysis confirmed that NPs, mainly internalized by endocytosis, persist in the vesicles without any apparent cell damage. Conversely, MPs are not internalized, and the effects on hASCs have to be ascribed to the release of ions in the culture medium, or to the reduced oxygen and nutrient exchange efficiency due to the presence of MP agglomerating around the cells. Notwithstanding the results depicting a heterogeneous scene that does not allow drawing a general conclusion, this work reiterates the importance of comparative investigations on MPs, NPs, and corresponding ions, and the need to continue the thorough verification of NP and MP innocuousness to ensure unaffected stem cell physiology and differentiation.
Development of Novel Faster-Dissolving Microneedle Patches for Transcutaneous Vaccine Delivery
Authors: Ono Akihiko , Ito Sayami , Sakagami Shun , Asada Hideo , Saito Mio , Quan Ying-Shu , Kamiyama Fumio , Hirobe Sachiko , Okada Naoki
Published: August 2017

Microneedle (MN) patches are promising for transcutaneous vaccination because they enable vaccine antigens to physically penetrate the stratum corneum via low-invasive skin puncturing, and to be effectively delivered to antigen-presenting cells in the skin. In second-generation MN patches, the dissolving MNs release the loaded vaccine antigen into the skin. To shorten skin application time for clinical practice, this study aims to develop novel faster-dissolving MNs. We designed two types of MNs made from a single thickening agent, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) or hyaluronan (HN). Both CMC-MN and HN-MN completely dissolved in rat skin after a 5-min application. In pre-clinical studies, both MNs could demonstrably increase antigen-specific IgG levels after vaccination and prolong antigen deposition compared with conventional injections, and deliver antigens into resected human dermal tissue. In clinical research, we demonstrated that both MNs could reliably and safely puncture human skin without any significant skin irritation from transepidermal water loss measurements and ICDRG (International Contact Dermatitis Research Group) evaluation results.
Cure Behavior and Thermomechanical Properties of Phthalonitrile–Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Copolymers
Authors: Li Xiaodan , Yu Baifeng , Zhang Dongxing , Lei Jing , Nan Zhu
Published: August 2017

Phthalonitrile–polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) copolymers were prepared by adding two different POSS cage mixtures: epoxycyclohexyl POSS (EP0408) and N-phenylaminopropyl POSS (AM0281). The cure behavior and properties of these polymers were analyzed and compared using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Fourier transform far infrared (FTIR) measurements, and rheometric studies. The POSS-containing polymers showed higher chemical reactivity, better thermal stability and better mechanical performance in comparison to their unmodified counterparts. All the polymers showed water absorption below 1.5%. As revealed by FTIR measurements, the polymerization products contained triazine ring structures that were responsible for the superior thermal properties exhibited by these POSS-containing polymers.
Porous Alumosilicate Aggregate as Lead Ion Sorbent in Wastewater Treatments
Authors: Petrella Andrea , Cosma Pinalysa , Rizzi Vito , De Vietro Nicoletta
Published: August 2017

Porous alumosilicate aggregate, namely perlite, was used as an alternative material in wastewater treatments for the selective removal of ionic pollutants such as lead which is present in industrial wastewaters and toxic at relatively low concentrations. Metal retention was investigated by single metals and multispecies equilibrium isotherms (batch system) and by carrying out dynamic (column) experiments. Lead ions were supposedly preferentially retained by ion exchange at the negatively charged silicate functional groups present on the perlite material, and to a minor extent by weak electrostatic (Van der Waals) interactions at non-specific functionalities. In the case of the batch system, the Freundlich isotherm gave a good correlation of the experimental data and lead maximum retention (qmax) in single ion solution was 4.28 mg/gperlite, and in multimetal solution was 1.50 mg/gperlite. In the case of the column system, overall capacity was 3.7 mg/gperlite in single ion solution, and in multimetal solution was 3.0 mg/gperlite. In multimetal solutions, lead ions showed the best interaction at the perlite functional groups because of the lowest free energies of hydration and hydrated radius. After sorption, perlite beads were used as lightweight aggregates for cement mortars after evaluation of the potential release of lead ions from the conglomerates.
Crude Oil Contaminated Sites: Evaluation by Using Risk Assessment Approach
Authors: Cocârţă Diana , Stoian Mihaela , Karademir Aykan
Published: August 2017

Soils contaminated with toxic and persistent pollutants pose different and serious hazards to the environment and human health. Multidisciplinary procedures that are considering models for the prediction of risk for long-term exposure are needed. The present paper illustrates the operating mode and utility of an environmental software able toe0) integrates the dose-response modeling as a major part of hazard characterization in order to assess the quantitative risk from carcinogens. In this way, risk assessment is used as a method for the investigation of contaminated sites. The method is demonstrated on a Romanian field site, contaminated with petroleum products. For the assessment of human health risks from oil-contaminated sites, the contaminants of concern are considered as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (MAHs), and heavy metals, chemicals known as human carcinogens. Quantitative risk calculations revealed an individual risk of 1.07 × 10−5 for children and 6.89 × 10−6 for adults. The paper represents a utility example of an environmental software solution that could be considered by decision-making factors in approving certain projects. The software tool is helpful for protecting the environment and human health.
Effectiveness of ABC Waters Design Features for Runoff Quantity Control in Urban Singapore
Authors: Yau Wing , Radhakrishnan Mohanasundar , Liong Shie-Yui , Zevenbergen Chris , Pathirana Assela
Published: August 2017

Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters (ABC Waters) design features—natural systems consisting of plants and soil that detain and treat rainwater runoff—comprise a major part of Sustainable urban Drainage Systems (SuDS) in Singapore. Although it is generally accepted that ABC Waters design features are able to detain runoff and reduce peak flow, their effectiveness in doing so has not been studied or documented locally. This research aims to determine their effectiveness in reducing peak flow based on a newly constructed pilot precinct named Waterway Ridges. Four types of ABC Waters features have been integrated holistically within the development, and designed innovatively to allow the precinct to achieve an effective C-value of 0.55 for the 10-year design storm; the precinct-wide integration and implemented design with the aim of substantially reducing peak flow are firsts in Singapore. The study is based on results from an uncalibrated 1D hydraulic model developed using the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). Identification of key design elements and performance enhancement of the features via optimisation were also studied. Results show that the features are effective in reducing peak flow for the 10-year design storm, by 33%, and allowed the precinct to achieve an effective C-value of 0.60.
Cell Death and Prognosis of Mortality in Alcoholic Hepatitis Patients Using Plasma Keratin-18
Authors: Woolbright Benjamin L. , Bridges Brian W. , Dunn Winston , Olson Jody C. , Weinman Steven A. , Jaeschke Hartmut
Published: August 2017

Alcoholic liver disease encompasses the progressive stages of liver dysfunction that culminates in alcoholic cirrhosis (AC) and in severe cases alcoholic hepatitis (AH). Currently, prognostic scores have limited specificity and sensitivity. Plasma keratin-18 (K18) levels are elevated during liver disease and may be biomarkers of outcome. The objective of this study was to determine if total K18 (M65) or caspase-cleaved K18 (M30) levels were different between AC and AH patients. M65 and M30 levels were measured in the plasma of consented healthy controls and patients with AC and AH. Cell death was assessed by TUNEL staining and caspase activity. M65 and M30 values were significantly higher in AC patients compared to healthy controls and further increased in AH patients. The M65 values and the M30/M65 ratios of nonsurviving AH patients were significantly elevated above their surviving counterparts and healthy controls. Statistical analysis indicated that M30/M65 ratios outperformed current indices for accurately distinguishing the prognosis of AH patients. These scores occurred with minimal increase in plasma cell death markers such as ALT and AST. Serum caspase activity, TUNEL staining, and M30 immunohistochemistry in biopsies indicated that serum and tissue values may not correlate well with overall cell death. In conclusion, both M65 and M30 differentiate AH from AC patients, and M65 values and the M30/M65 ratio are capable of predicting early stage mortality; however, they may not accurately reflect pure hepatocyte cell death in these populations, as they do not strongly correlate with traditional cell death markers.
Spectroscopic Characterization of Key Aromatic and Heterocyclic Molecules: A Route toward the Origin of Life
Authors: Puzzarini Cristina , Baiardi Alberto , Bloino Julien , Barone Vincenzo , Murphy Thomas E. , Drew H. Dennis , Ali Ashraf
Published: August 2017

To gain information on the abiotic synthesis of the building blocks of life from simple molecules, and their subsequent chemical evolution to biological systems, the starting point is the identification of target species in Titan-like planets; i.e., planets that resemble the primitive Earth, as well as in Earth-like planets in the habitable zone of their star, namely planets where life can be already originated. In this scenario, molecular spectroscopy plays a crucial role because spectroscopic signatures are at the basis of an unequivocal proof for the presence of these target molecules. Thanks to advances in many different techniques and NASA’s successful Kepler exoplanet transit mission, thousands of diverse planets outside of our solar system have been discovered. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scheduled to be launched in 2018, will be very helpful in the identification of biosignature gases in Earth-like planets’ atmospheres and prebiotic molecule signatures in Titan-like atmospheres, by observing their absorption during transits. Although the search for key-target molecules in exoplanet atmospheres can be carried out by the JWST Transit Spectroscopy in the infrared (IR) region (0.6–29 μm wavelength range), opportunities for their detection in protostellar cores, protoplanetary disks, and on Titan are also offered by interferometric high spectral and spatial resolution observations using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array. In the present work, target molecules have been selected, and their spectroscopic characterization presented in view of supporting their infrared and complementary millimeter/submillimeter-wave spectral observations. In detail, the selected target molecules include: (1) the three-membered oxygen-containing heterocycles, oxirane and protonated oxirane; (2) the cyclopropenyl cation and its methyl derivative; (3) two examples of ortho- and peri-fused tri-cyclic aromatic rings, i.e., the phenalenyl cation (

) and anion (

); and (4) uracil, a specific RNA base.
Limits on the Ultra-bright Fast Radio Burst Population from the CHIME Pathfinder
Authors: Amiri M. , Bandura K. , Berger P. , Bond J. R. , Cliche J. F. , Connor L. , Deng M. , Denman N. , Dobbs M. , Domagalski R. S. , Fandino M. , Gilbert A. J. , Good D. C. , Halpern M. , Hanna D. , Hincks A. D. , Hinshaw G. , Höfer C. , Hsyu G. , Klages P. , Landecker T. L. , Masui K. , Mena-Parra J. , Newburgh L. B. , Oppermann N. , Pen U. L. , Peterson J. B. , Pinsonneault-Marotte T. , Renard A. , Shaw J. R , Siegel S. R. , Sigurdson K. , Smith K. , Storer E. , Tretyakov I. , Vanderlinde K. , Wiebe D. V. ,   CHIME Scientific Collaboration
Published: August 2017

We present results from a new incoherent-beam fast radio burst (FRB) search on the Canadian Hydrogen Intensity Mapping Experiment (CHIME) Pathfinder. Its large instantaneous field of view (FoV) and relative thermal insensitivity allow us to probe the ultra-bright tail of the FRB distribution, and to test a recent claim that this distribution’s slope,

, is quite small. A 256-input incoherent beamformer was deployed on the CHIME Pathfinder for this purpose. If the FRB distribution were described by a single power law with α = 0.7, we would expect an FRB detection every few days, making this the fastest survey on the sky at present. We collected 1268 hr of data, amounting to one of the largest exposures of any FRB survey, with over 2.4 × 105 deg2 hr. Having seen no bursts, we have constrained the rate of extremely bright events to <13 sky−1 day−1 above

for τ between 1.3 and 100 ms, at 400–800 MHz. The non-detection also allows us to rule out α ≲ 0.9 with 95% confidence, after marginalizing over uncertainties in the GBT rate at 700–900 MHz, though we show that for a cosmological population and a large dynamic range in flux density, α is brightness dependent. Since FRBs now extend to large enough distances that non-Euclidean effects are significant, there is still expected to be a dearth of faint events and relative excess of bright events. Nevertheless we have constrained the allowed number of ultra-intense FRBs. While this does not have significant implications for deeper, large-FoV surveys like full CHIME and APERTIF, it does have important consequences for other wide-field, small dish experiments.
The Slowly Varying Corona. I. Daily Differential Emission Measure Distributions Derived from EVE Spectra
Authors: Schonfeld S. J. , White S. M. , Hock-Mysliwiec R. A. , McAteer R. T. J.
Published: August 2017

Daily differential emission measure (DEM) distributions of the solar corona are derived from spectra obtained by the Extreme-ultraviolet Variability Experiment (EVE) over a 4 yr period starting in 2010 near solar minimum and continuing through the maximum of solar cycle 24. The DEMs are calculated using six strong emission features dominated by Fe lines of charge states viii, ix, xi, xii, xiv, and xvi that sample the nonflaring coronal temperature range 0.3–5 MK. A proxy for the non-Fe xviii emission in the wavelength band around the 93.9 Å line is demonstrated. There is little variability in the cool component of the corona (T < 1.3 MK) over the 4 yr, suggesting that the quiet-Sun corona does not respond strongly to the solar cycle, whereas the hotter component (T > 2.0 MK) varies by more than an order of magnitude. A discontinuity in the behavior of coronal diagnostics in 2011 February–March, around the time of the first X-class flare of cycle 24, suggests fundamentally different behavior in the corona under solar minimum and maximum conditions. This global state transition occurs over a period of several months. The DEMs are used to estimate the thermal energy of the visible solar corona (of order 1031 erg), its radiative energy loss rate ((2.5–8) 

erg s−1), and the corresponding energy turnover timescale (about an hour). The uncertainties associated with the DEMs and these derived values are mostly due to the coronal Fe abundance and density and the CHIANTI atomic line database.
The State-of-the-art HST Astro-photometric Analysis of the Core of ω Centauri. III. The Main Sequence's Multiple Populations Galore*
Authors: Bellini A. , Milone A. P. , Anderson J. , Marino A. F. , Piotto G. , van der Marel R. P. , Bedin L. R. , King I. R.
Published: August 2017

We take advantage of the exquisite quality of the Hubble Space Telescope 26-filter astro-photometric catalog of the core of ω Cen presented in the first paper of this series and the empirical differential-reddening correction presented in the second paper in order to distill the main sequence into its constituent populations. To this end, we restrict ourselves to the five most useful filters: the magic “trio” of F275W, F336W, and F438W, along with F606W and F814W. We develop a strategy for identifying color systems where different populations stand out most distinctly, then we isolate those populations and examine them in other filters where their subpopulations also come to light. In this way, we have identified at least 15 subpopulations, each of which has a distinctive fiducial curve through our five-dimensional photometric space. We confirm the MSa to be split into two subcomponents, and find that both the bMS and the rMS are split into three subcomponents. Moreover, we have discovered two additional MS groups: the MSd (which has three subcomponents) shares similar properties with the bMS, and the MSe (which has four subcomponents) has properties more similar to those of the rMS. We examine the fiducial curves together and use synthetic spectra to infer relative heavy-element, light-element, and helium abundances for the populations. Our findings show that the stellar populations and star formation history of ω Cen are even more complex than inferred previously. Finally, we provide as a supplement to the original catalog a list that identifies for each star which population it is most likely associated with.
Evidence for Spatially Correlated Gaia Parallax Errors in the Kepler Field
Authors: Zinn Joel C. , Huber Daniel , Pinsonneault Marc H. , Stello Dennis
Published: August 2017

We present evidence for a spatially dependent systematic error in the first data release of Gaia parallaxes based on comparisons to asteroseismic parallaxes in the Kepler field and provide a parameterized model of the angular dependence of these systematics. We report an error of

mas on scales of 0.°3, which decreases for larger scales to become

mas at 8°. This is consistent with the ∼2% zero-point offset for the whole sample discussed by Huber et al. and is compatible with the effect predicted by the Gaia team. Our results are robust to dust prescriptions and choices in temperature scales used to calculate asteroseismic parallaxes. We also do not find evidence for significant differences in the signal when using red clump versus red giant stars. Our approach allows us to quantify and map the correlations in an astrophysically interesting field, resulting in a parameterized model of the spatial systematics that can be used to construct a covariance matrix for any work that relies on TGAS parallaxes.
The 1600 Å Emission Bump in Protoplanetary Disks: A Spectral Signature of H2O Dissociation∗
Authors: France Kevin , Roueff Evelyne , Abgrall Hervé
Published: August 2017

The FUV continuum spectrum of many accreting pre-main sequence stars, Classical T Tauri Stars (CTTSs), does not continue smoothly from the well-studied Balmer continuum emission in the NUV, suggesting that additional processes contribute to the short-wavelength emission in these objects. The most notable spectral feature in the FUV continuum of some CTTSs is a broad emission approximately centered at 1600 Å, which has been referred to as the “1600 Å Bump.” The origin of this feature remains unclear. In an effort to better understand the molecular properties of planet-forming disks and the UV spectral properties of accreting protostars, we have assembled archival FUV spectra of 37 disk-hosting systems observed by the Hubble Space Telescope-Cosmic Origins Spectrograph. Clear 1600 Å Bump emission is observed above the smooth, underlying 1100–1800 Å continuum spectrum in 19/37 Classical T Tauri disks in the HST-COS sample, with the detection rate in transition disks (8/8) being much higher than that in primordial or non-transition sources (11/29). We describe a spectral deconvolution analysis to separate the Bump (spanning 1490–1690 Å) from the underlying FUV continuum, finding an average Bump luminosity L(Bump) ≈ 7 × 1029 erg s−1. Parameterizing the Bump with a combination of Gaussian and polynomial components, we find that the 1600 Å Bump is characterized by a peak wavelength λ
o = 1598.6 ± 3.3 Å, with FWHM = 35.8 ± 19.1 Å. Contrary to previous studies, we find that this feature is inconsistent with models of H2 excited by electron -impact. We show that this Bump makes up between 5%–50% of the total FUV continuum emission in the 1490–1690 Å band and emits roughly 10%–80% of the total fluorescent H2 luminosity for stars with well-defined Bump features. Energetically, this suggests that the carrier of the 1600 Å Bump emission is powered by Lyα photons. We argue that the most likely mechanism is Lyα-driven dissociation of H2O in the inner disk, r ≲ 2 au. We demonstrate that non-thermally populated H2O fragments can qualitatively account for the observed emission (discrete and continuum) and find that the average Lyα-driven H2O dissociation rate is 1.7 × 1042 water molecules s−1.
Supermassive Black Holes as the Regulators of Star Formation in Central Galaxies
Authors: Terrazas Bryan A. , Bell Eric F. , Woo Joanna , Henriques Bruno M. B.
Published: August 2017

We present the relationship between the black hole mass, stellar mass, and star formation rate (SFR) of a diverse group of 91 galaxies with dynamically measured black hole masses. For our sample of galaxies with a variety of morphologies and other galactic properties, we find that the specific SFR is a smoothly decreasing function of the ratio between black hole mass and stellar mass, or what we call the specific black hole mass. In order to explain this relation, we propose a physical framework where the gradual suppression of a galaxy’s star formation activity results from the adjustment to an increase in specific black hole mass, and accordingly, an increase in the amount of heating. From this framework, it follows that at least some galaxies with intermediate specific black hole masses are in a steady state of partial quiescence with intermediate specific SFRs, implying that both transitioning and steady-state galaxies live within this region that is known as the “green valley.” With respect to galaxy formation models, our results present an important diagnostic with which to test various prescriptions of black hole feedback and its effects on star formation activity.