bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shell-Less Egg Syndrome (SES) Widespread in Western Canadian Layer Operations Is Linked to a Massachusetts (Mass) Type Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) Isolate
Authors: Amarasinghe Aruna , Popowich Shelly , De Silva Senapathi Upasama , Abdul-Cader Mohamed Sarjoon , Marshall Frank , Van der Meer Frank , Cork Susan C. , Gomis Susantha , Abdul-Careem Mohamed Faizal
Published: August 2018

A disease with a sudden drop in egg production and shell-less eggs called, shell-less egg syndrome (SES) has been observed in Western Canada egg layer flocks since 2010. The etiology of this disease is not known. We hypothesize that SES is caused by an infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) strain since it is known that IBV replicates in the shell gland causing various eggshell abnormalities. In this study, we screened egg layer flocks, in the provinces of Alberta (AB) and Saskatchewan (SK), with and without a history of SES for the presence of IBV infection. During 2015–2016, a total of 27 egg layer flocks were screened in AB (n = 7) and SK (n = 20). Eighty-one percent of the screened flocks (n = 22) were positive for IBV infection. Thirty of these isolates were successfully characterized using molecular tools targeting the most variable spike (S) 1 gene. IBV isolates from this study clustered into three genotypes based on partial S1 gene variability. The majority of the IBV isolates (70%) were Massachusetts (Mass) type, and the rest were either Connecticut (Conn) type or an uncharacterized genotype with genetic characteristics of Mass and Conn types. Since the majority of the IBV isolates included within the Mass type, we used a Mass type IBV isolate to reproduce SES in specific pathogen free (SPF) white leghorn chickens in lay. Further studies are warranted to investigate whether other IBV isolates can cause SES, to clarify the pathogenesis of SES and to develop a vaccine in order to prevent SES as observed in Western Canadian layer flocks.
The Morphology and Assembly of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Revealed by Cryo-Electron Tomography
Authors: Ke Zunlong , Dillard Rebecca S. , Chirkova Tatiana , Leon Fredrick , Stobart Christopher C. , Hampton Cheri M. , Strauss Joshua D. , Rajan Devi , Rostad Christina A. , Taylor Jeannette V. , Yi Hong , Shah Raven , Jin Mengtian , Hartert Tina V. , Peebles R. Stokes , Graham Barney S. , Moore Martin L. , Anderson Larry J. , Wright Elizabeth R.
Published: August 2018

Human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract disease in young children. With repeat infections throughout life, it can also cause substantial disease in the elderly and in adults with compromised cardiac, pulmonary and immune systems. RSV is a pleomorphic enveloped RNA virus in the Pneumoviridae family. Recently, the three-dimensional (3D) structure of purified RSV particles has been elucidated, revealing three distinct morphological categories: spherical, asymmetric, and filamentous. However, the native 3D structure of RSV particles associated with or released from infected cells has yet to be investigated. In this study, we have established an optimized system for studying RSV structure by imaging RSV-infected cells on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) grids by cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET). Our results demonstrate that RSV is filamentous across several virus strains and cell lines by cryo-ET, cryo-immuno EM, and thin section TEM techniques. The viral filament length varies from 0.5 to 12 μm and the average filament diameter is approximately 130 nm. Taking advantage of the whole cell tomography technique, we have resolved various stages of RSV assembly. Collectively, our results can facilitate the understanding of viral morphogenesis in RSV and other pleomorphic enveloped viruses.
Analysis of Irrigation Canal System Characteristics in Heilongjiang Province and the Influence on Irrigation Water Use Efficiency
Authors: Li Tianxiao , Sun Mengxin , Fu Qiang , Cui Song , Liu Dong
Published: August 2018

Irrigation water use efficiency is a primary evaluation index that links economic production development with the efficient use of water resources. Canal water conveyance is an important part of irrigation, and the distribution characteristics of canal systems have an important influence on irrigation water use efficiency. In this paper, 75 irrigated districts in Heilongjiang Province in 2015 were selected as the study objects. The main, branch, lateral, and sublateral canals were graded into first-, second-, third-, and fourth-order classes, respectively. The irrigation districts were divided into three classes, that is, four-order, three-order, and two-order, according to the canal orders that the irrigation districts contained. The canal system framework was described by Horton’s law. The fractal dimension of the canal system was calculated based on the bifurcation ratio and length ratio of the canals. The relationships between fractal dimensions and irrigation water use efficiency were evaluated. The results showed that the irrigation water use efficiency of the four-order and three-order irrigation districts initially increased and then decreased with increases in the fractal dimension (D). In the irrigation districts, an irrigation water use efficiency of more than 10 × 103 hm2 and less than 0.67 × 103 hm2 was proportional to the increase in the fractal dimension, whereas the opposite result was found for districts with (0.67–10) × 103 hm2. The irrigation water use efficiency of the four-order and two-order irrigation districts with less than 3.3 × 103 hm2 had the greatest potential to increase the water use efficiency. Therefore, canal system reconstruction suggestions for different irrigation districts were provided. The results have important theoretical significance and practical value for the improvement of irrigation construction and the promotion of irrigation water efficiency planning.
Efficient Ammonium Removal by Bacteria Rhodopseudomonas Isolated from Natural Landscape Water: China Case Study
Authors: Huang Xuejiao , Ni Jiupai , Yang Chong , Feng Mi , Li Zhenlun , Xie Deti
Published: August 2018

In this study, we isolated a strain of photosynthetic bacteria from landscape water located in Southwest University, Chongqing, China, and named it Smobiisys501. Smobiisys501 was Rhodopseudomonas sp. according to its cell morphological properties and absorption spectrum analysis of living cells. The analysis of the 16S rDNA amplification sequence with specific primers of photosynthetic bacteria showed that the homology between Smobiisys501 and Rhodopseudomonas sp. was 100%, and the alignment results of protein sequences of the bacterial chlorophyll Y subunit showed that Smobiisys501 and Rhodopseudomonas palustris were the most similar, with a similarity of more than 92%. However, Smobiisys501 could not utilize glucose and mannitol as a carbon source and had a low fatty acid content, which were different from the related strains of the genus Rhodopseudomonas. Moreover, the DNA-DNA relatedness was only 42.2 ± 3.3% between Smobiisys501 and the closest strain Rhodopseudomonas palustris. Smobiisys501 grew optimally at 30 °C and pH 7.0 in the presence of yeast extract, and it could efficiently remove ammonium (99.67% removal efficiency) from synthetic ammonium wastewater. All the results indicated that Smobiisys501 was a novel species of Rhodopseudomonas, with the ability to remove ammonium.
Sea Water Contamination in the Vicinity of the Italian Minor Islands Caused by Microplastic Pollution
Authors: De Lucia Giuseppe , Vianello Alvise , Camedda Andrea , Vani Danilo , Tomassetti Paolo , Coppa Stefania , Palazzo Luca , Amici Marina , Romanelli Giulia , Zampetti Giorgio , Cicero Anna , Carpentieri Serena , Di Vito Stefania , Matiddi Marco
Published: August 2018

The abundance and distribution of microplastics (MP) were evaluated in six “clean” sites (Italian minor islands) and in two “polluted” areas (near the mouth of two major Italian rivers). Samples of MP, plankton and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) were collected using a manta trawl (MA) and a plankton net (WP2), both lined with a 333 µm mesh net. MP have been confirmed to be ubiquitous since they were found at each site, showing an average density of 0.3 ± 0.04 items/m3 (values ranged from 0.641 to 0.119 ). When comparing the clean sites with the polluted ones, a significantly higher value of MP was found near the river mouths. The most common types of MP were synthetic filaments (50.24%), followed by fragments (30.39%), thin plastic films (16.98%) and spheres (2.39%). Infrared spectroscopy analysis highlighted that the most abundant polymers were polyethylene (PE-26%), polypropylene (PP-11%), polyethylene-terephthalate/polyester (PET/PEST-8%) and ethylene-vinyl-acetate (EVA-5%). Polychlorinated biphenyls and organochlorine pesticides were detected in all the samples with a high variability among sites and depths. This study adds to the existing information on the distribution of contaminants across the Mediterranean Sea, and is useful to policy makers who wish to implement effective measures to reduce MP pollution.
Influence of the thickness of an antiferromagnetic IrMn layer on the static and dynamic magnetization of weakly coupled CoFeB/IrMn/CoFeB trilayers
Authors: Jhajhria Deepika , Pandya Dinesh K , Chaudhary Sujeet
Published: August 2018

The static and dynamic magnetization response of the CoFeB/IrMn/CoFeB trilayer system with varying thickness of the antiferromagnetic (AF) IrMn layer is investigated using magnetization hysteresis (M–H) and ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) measurements. The study shows that the two CoFeB layers are coupled via a long-range dynamic exchange effect through the IrMn layer up to a thickness of 6 nm. It is found that with the increase in IrMn layer thickness a nearly linear enhancement of the effective magnetic damping constant occurs, which is associated with the simultaneous influence of spin pumping and interlayer exchange coupling effects. An extrinsic contribution to the linewidth originating from the two-magnon scattering is also discussed. The AF-induced interfacial damping parameter is derived by studying the evolution of damping with inverse CoFeB thickness. The static magnetic measurements also reveal the interlayer exchange coupling across the IrMn layer both at room temperature and low temperature. The asymmetric hysteresis loop and training effect observed at low temperature is related to the presence of a metastable AF domain state. We show that both the static and dynamic magnetic properties of trilayer films can be adjusted over a wide range by changing the thickness of the IrMn spacer layer.
Tetrathiafulvalene – a redox-switchable building block to control motion in mechanically interlocked molecules
Authors: Schröder Hendrik V , Schalley Christoph A
Published: August 2018

With the rise of artificial molecular machines, control of motion on the nanoscale has become a major contemporary research challenge. Tetrathiafulvalenes (TTFs) are one of the most versatile and widely used molecular redox switches to generate and control molecular motion. TTF can easily be implemented as functional unit into molecular and supramolecular structures and can be reversibly oxidized to a stable radical cation or dication. For over 20 years, TTFs have been key building blocks for the construction of redox-switchable mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs) and their electrochemical operation has been thoroughly investigated. In this review, we provide an introduction into the field of TTF-based MIMs and their applications. A brief historical overview and a selection of important examples from the past until now are given. Furthermore, we will highlight our latest research on TTF-based rotaxanes.
Public health risks of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in raw bovine milk sold in informal markets in Egypt
Authors: Elmonir Walid , Abo-Remela Etab , Sobeih Azza
Published: August 2018

Introduction: Milk is an important food in Egypt and most of it is sold as raw milk in informal markets.

Methodology: This study was conducted to investigate the public health risks of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus in milk sold in informal markets in Egypt. A total of 121 milk samples were analyzed for occurrence, virulence genes and antibiotic resistance of E. coli and S. aureus.

Results: A total of 35/121 (28.9%) of milk samples were contaminated with 16/121 (13.2%) E. coli, 22/121 (18.2%) S. aureus, and 3/121 (2.5%) both isolates. Shiga-toxin producing E. coli (STEC), Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and Enterotoxigenic S. aureus were detected in 5/121 (4.1%), 2/121 (1.7%) and 8/121 (6.6%) of the examined milk samples, respectively. Multiple drug resistances (MDRs) were showed by 14/16 (87.5%) and 21/22 (95.5%) of E. coli and S. aureus isolates, respectively. E. coli isolates showed high resistance for cephalothin (87.5%), ampicillin (68.8%) and tetracycline (68.8%), but were sensitive for gentamicin and chloramphenicol. Resistance phenotypes of E. coli were diverse; however, STEC isolates were significantly associated with co-resistance to cephalothin, ampicillin and tetracycline (P< 0.05). Two (9.1%) of S. aureus isolates were methicillin-resistant (MRSA) but sensitive to gentamicin (GS-MRSA). Five (22.7%) of S. aureus isolates were gentamicin-resistant methicillin-sensitive S. aureus (GR-MSSA). S. aureus isolates also showed high resistance for ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (90.1%) and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (90.1%).

Conclusion: These findings highlighted the potential public health hazards of E. coli and S. aureus pathogens in raw milk sold in informal markets in Egypt.
Same-Day Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty Candidacy Criteria Decrease Length of Stay and Facility Discharge
Authors: Davidson Iyooh U. , Brigati David P. , Faour Mhamad , UdoInyang Inyang Jr , Ibrahim Mudathir , Murray Trevor G.
Published: August 2018

Simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty (SBTKA) may present a higher risk for postoperative complications than unilateral surgery. The authors retrospectively identified 561 patients who underwent SBTKA between 2013 and 2015. The cohort was stratified according to the following appropriateness of care criteria (AOCC): (1) age younger than 70 years; (2) absence of cardiac disease; (3) controlled diabetes; and (4) body mass index less than 30 kg/m
2
. The authors created an AOCC score, with 0 representing the most ideal candidates and 4 representing the least ideal candidates. The cohort included 140 (25%) ideal candidates with a score of 0; the cohort also included 299 (53%) non-ideal candidates with a score of 1, 105 (19%) with a score of 2, 14 (2%) with a score of 3, and 3 (1%) with a score of 4. Ideal candidates had the shortest mean length of stay at 3.6±1.2 days. Length of stay was longer for patients with an AOCC score of greater than 2 compared with those with an AOCC score of 2 or less (5.2±4.3 vs 3.8±1.6 days,
P
<.001). Ideal candidates were discharged to home more often than other patients (26% vs 13%,
P
<.001). Although there was no difference in 90-day all-cause complications between ideal and non-ideal candidates (13% vs 16%,
P
=.400), medical complications trended strongly (6% vs 11%,
P
=.086). Appropriateness of care criteria for SBTKA patients were associated with shorter length of stay, higher rates of home discharge, and a trend toward lower complication rates. Simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty can offer better outcomes in a subgroup of patients appropriately selected for surgery. Physicians can use these results to counsel their patients about risks and benefits of undergoing SBTKA. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(5):293–298.]
Analyse de l’effet de la concurrence végétale sur la croissance de l’Iroko (Milicia excelsa) en forêt dense tropicale perturbée de l’Est–Cameroun
Authors: Mbonayem L. , Bobo K.S.
Published: August 2018

La simulation faite actuellement sur les essences de valeur commerciale, s’agissant de la détermination de leur diamètre minimum aménagement par la méthode de calcul du taux de reconstitution et qui leur permettrait d’atteindre le diamètre minimum exploitable après rotation, ne tient pas compte des facteurs écologiques de croissance des espèces (nutriments du sol, accessibilité de l’eau, compétition due à la présence d’autres espèces, changements climatiques…). La présente recherche s’engage à mener une réflexion sur les variations de croissance de l’Iroko en fonction des interactions de compétition liée à la présence avec le peuplement environnant. Cette étude a été réalisée en peuplement hétérogène perturbé des forêts denses du bassin du Congo et pourra servir d’amorce au développement d’une approche d’identification du rôle de chaque facteur environnemental dans le processus de croissance des espèces en milieu forestier hétérogène et utile à l’élaboration future des modèles allométriques de croissance des espèces tropicales.
Les implications des migrations climatiques sur la souveraineté des États
Authors: Moine André
Published: August 2018

La sédentarisation a, entre autres effets, favorisé la création d’institutions territorialisées. Parmi elles, l'État, qui dispose d’une place centrale, est souverain et, du fait de cette qualité, il exerce son pouvoir sur un territoire aux frontières définies et sur la population qui y réside. Dès lors, la mobilité contrainte de l’éventuel nomade climatique se heurte à des frontières étatiques. Les changements climatiques provoquent et provoqueront en effet des déplacements de populations soit à l’intérieur de leur pays d’origine soit vers d’autres territoires étatiques. Le droit international ne contient pas de réglementation spécifique relative à ces migrants climatiques. Examinés en l'occurrence sous l’angle de la souveraineté des États, les mouvements de population causés par les changements climatiques concernent les compétences des États touchés par ces changements et celles des autres États susceptibles d’accueillir ces migrants. Les déplacements internes de population pour raisons climatiques doivent respecter les droits des personnes affectées, mais relèvent, sauf exception, de la compétence souveraine de l'État concerné. En revanche, la souveraineté de l'État submergé dont la population se réfugie sur d’autres territoires terrestres est mise en cause. Quant aux autres États, les migrations climatiques les amènent à définir souverainement une politique relative à ces flux migratoires et à éventuellement envisager ou procéder à des aménagements institutionnels pour la présence de ces migrants.
Experimental Investigation on Synthesis of Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite by the Mechanochemical Method
Authors: Harilal Manu , Saikiran A. , Rameshbabu N.
Published: August 2018

Mechanochemical synthesis is a simple and effective method to prepare ceramic compounds with nanosize. The present work was aimed at investigating the application of the mechanochemical method to synthesize nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HA). The shortest milling time required for synthesizing HA, using Ca (OH)2 and (NH4)2HPO4 as precursor materials was also established. The synthesized samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to determine the phases evolved, functional groups present and to assess the size and morphology of the particles, respectively. Further, the thermal stability of the synthesized powders was investigated by heating to a temperature of 900 °C with a dwell time of 2 h. The broadening of the XRD peaks was used to find out the crystallite size and Williamson-Hall plots were used to estimate the lattice strain. The XRD and FTIR results demonstrated that the complete formation of the HA phase by mechanochemical method has started within a milling time of 30 min using Ca (OH)2 and (NH4)2HPO4 as precursors and the Ca/P ratio of the HA increased with increasing milling time. The TEM micrographs demonstrated that the HA particles are nanosized, non-spherical and highly agglomerated.
Synthesis of Natural Surfactant of Sodium Lignosulfonate from Rice Husk Lignin by Ultrasound Assisted - Sulfonation
Authors: Ma'ruf Anwar , Pramudono Bambang , Aryanti Nita
Published: August 2018

Sodium lignosulfonate (SLS) is one of natural surfactant that can be modified from lignin. The utilization of natural surfactant of SLS is widely studied by researchers. This paper will study the synthesis of a natural surfactant of SLS from rice husk lignin by ultrasound assisted – sulfonation and the characteristics of SLS based on FTIR spectra. The reaction was carried out at the temperature of 60 °C and the time of 30 minutes. From the experiment can be concluded that sulfonation process with ultrasonic irradiation has advantages compared with conventional heating, i.e. lower temperature, shorter time and higher yield.
Experimental Study on Differentiating between Natural Honey and Honey Glucose Syrup by Using Hall Effect Sensor
Authors: Sriratana Witsarut , Sokjabok Siwakon , Sriratana Lerdlekha
Published: August 2018

This study presents the application of Hall Effect sensor for differentiating the combination of liquids based on electrical conductance. Electromagnetic field was generated from wire (AWG 31) bound on high frequency magnetic core namely Toroidal iron power (T131-26) or C-shape Toroidal core. In this study, the electrochemical cell was fixed at 0.09375 cm-1 and there were 10 samples of several liquid types for testing. Hall Effect sensor was designed to place with high frequency magnetic cores bound by 310-turns wire. From experiment using electromagnetic field generated by C-shape Toroidal core, it can be observed that the samples of natural honey from Germany (J) and sugar substitute for diabetics (I) could be distinguished by considering output voltage of Hall Effect sensor (VH) and electrical conductance. The output voltage and the electrical conductance from measurement of natural honey (J) were 3.037 V and 0.941 mS.T, respectively while those from measurement of sugar substitute (I) were 3.030 V and 0.938 mS.T, respectively. Moreover, it can be noted that this methodology could be applied for measuring electrical conductance of several liquid types due to the relationships of output voltage of Hall Effect sensor and electrical conductance of liquid. However, only C-shape Toroidal core was used in this study due to the appropriate generation of electromagnetic field for differentiating both sample liquid types with 1.83% of error for natural honey and 1.51% of error for sugar substitute from 195 times of repetitive measurement.
Electroless Deposition of Silver Nanowires Using Waste Ethylene Glycol for Highly Transparent Flexible Conducting Electrodes
Authors: de Guzman Nathaniel , Balela Mary Donnabelle L.
Published: August 2018

High aspect ratio silver nanowires (AgNWs) with an average length of 40 μm and average diameter of 88 nm were successfully synthesized using waste ethylene glycol as solvent and reducing agent. Silver nanowires with an average length and diameter of 32 μm and 122 nm, were produced after the third cycle of being reused. A transparent conducting film with a sheet resistance of 69 Ω/sq and optical transmittance of 91% was fabricated by Meyer rod coating an ink formulation of AgNWs dispersed in hydroxyethyl celullose (HEC)/methanol/deionized water. The low resistance of the AgNW networks was maintained even after 1000 bending cycles due to HEC acting as binder for the nanowires. The AgNWHEC transparent conductive electrode performed better than bare AgNWs and indium tin oxide (ITO) on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate after several bending cycles. The AgNW-HEC electrode also showed excellent stability against corrosion.
Ammonia Gas Detection Using Fabricated Zinc Oxide (ZnO) Nanoparticles on Glass Tube Substrates
Authors: Punzalan Kurt Brian Daine B. , Manalo Franz Kevin B. , Florido Emmanuel A.
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to determine the ammonia (NH3) gas sensing ability of zinc oxide (ZnO) films deposited on glass tube substrates via successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The fabricated films were annealed at different temperatures. The sensor films were exposed to different volumes of ammonium hydroxide (NH4OH), converted to parts per million (ppm). The change in voltage from concentrations 595ppm up to 1189ppm exhibited a linear trend. However, no trend was revealed in concentrations 2378ppm and 3964ppm due to film saturation. Results showed that the films annealed at 250 °C, 300 °C, 350 °C, and 400 °C presented sensitivities of 2.7×10-4V/ppm, 1.0×10-4V/ppm, 2.3×10-4V/ppm, and 1.5×10-4V/ppm with R2values of 0.997, 0.994, 0.904, 0.999 and resolutions of 3.7 ppm/mV, 9.9 ppm/mV, 4.4 ppm/mV, and 6.6 ppm/mV, respectively. Furthermore, this research study had proven that high quality gas sensors may be fabricated at a lower cost.
Optical and Electrical Characterizations of Nanoscale Robust 3C-SiC Membrane for UV Sensing Applications
Authors: Foisal A.R.M. , Dinh T. , Iacopi A. , Hold L. , Streed E.W. , Dao D.V.
Published: August 2018

This paper presents the fabrication and optical characterization of an ultrathin 3C-SiC membrane for UV light detection. SiC nanoscale film was grown on Si substrate and subsequently released to form a robust membrane with a high aspect ratio of about 5000. Transmission measurements were performed to determine the thickness of the film with a high accuracy of 98%. We also employed a simple and highly effective direct wirebonding technique to form electrical contacts to the SiC membrane. The considerable change in the photocurrent of the SiC membrane was observed under UV illumination, indicating the potential of using 3C-SiC membranes for UV detection.
Ultralow Fouling Surfaces from Self-Assembly of Copolymers with Sticky Biomimic Functional Groups
Authors: Wan Fei , Pu Rui , Feng Chao
Published: August 2018

In this work, a new strategy for preparing antifouling surfaces by a simple dip-coating procedure is reported. Copolymers containing catechol and antifouling pendant side groups were synthesized via the free radical polymerization of a catechol-containing methacrylate monomer N-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) ethyl methacrylamide and three kinds of antifouling monomers separately using α,α’-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator. These copolymers can assemble onto variety of materials surfaces including metals, oxides, and polymers such as PTFE using catechol groups via multivalent complex bonding. The catechol groups are helpful for adhesion of the copolymers onto the surfaces, while the other side chains endow the coatings with antifouling activity. Modification on the substrates with copolymers were verified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), the images of microalgaes and zoospores setting on the substrates were taken by microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The copolymer-coated surfaces, especially the surface modified by copolymer with 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt (SPMA(K)), displayed excellent antifouling activity and fouling-release properties in settlement assay with microalgaes and zoospores.
Polyaniline Emeraldine Salt Molecules Coated on Polyethylene Board Using SILAR Technique
Authors: Arejola Gian Paul Joshua De Vera , Herrera Marvin U.
Published: August 2018

In this study, conducting polyaniline (PANI) Emeraldine salt molecules were coated on polyethylene (PE) board using successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) technique. The number of dipping cycles were varied and the surface conductivity of the samples were measured using four-point probe technique. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was also done to verify the identities of the coated samples. Results show that PANI Emeraldine salt was successfully coated on PE board as indicated by the peaks of FTIR spectra. Surface conductivity of the PANI Emeraldine salt coated PE board increases with increased number of dipping cycles due to increases interconnectivity of PANI molecules. The conductivity decreases after reaching an optimum point at 80 dipping cycles due to either hindrance of movement of charges or the breaking away of chunks of PANI molecules. These results opens up several applications such as memory devices and erasable circuit boards.
Effect of Precursor Grain Size on the Sinterability and Conductivity of Commercial Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia as Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Mercado Anna Romina T. , Mesina Emmalin S. , Rabo Jennet R. , Cervera Rinlee Butch M.
Published: August 2018

Solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) have been receiving significant attention for future energy storage and hydrogen production applications. This research focuses on the electrolyte material which can be used for both SOEC and SOFC particularly on 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) electrolyte material. YSZ has been used because of its high stability at elevated temperature, excellent mechanical and chemical properties and its excellent oxygen ion conductivity. This study aims to determine the effect of precursor’s grain size and sintering temperature on the properties of YSZ as electrolyte material for SOEC. Solid-state sintering was done to transform the ceramic powders into solid compacts. Pure cubic fluorite structure YSZ was achieved by both micrograined and nanograined YSZ sintered at 1200°C and 1500°C. It was observed that the micrograined YSZ sample sintered at 1500°C achieved the highest relative density at 99.48%. SEM images showed a smooth and compact microstructure for micrograined YSZ while small pores were still present in the micrographs of nanograined YSZ. However, interestingly, the nanograined YSZ has higher total conductivity as compared to the micrograined YSZ.
Burning Characteristics of Azeotropic Binary Blended Fuel Pool Fire
Authors: Wang Xue Hui , Zhou Tian Nian , Chen Q.P. , Zhao Jin Fei , Ding Chao , Wang Jian
Published: August 2018

A series of experiments were conducted to investigate the burning characteristics of blended fuel pool fires. The azeotropic binary mixtures blended by ethanol and n-Heptane were selected as blended fuel in experiment. The fuel temperature, fire behaviors, burning rate and flame radiation were recorded in experiments. The result show that azeotropism play an important role in the burning process, the fuel temperature was decrease and the burning rate was increased. The flame radiant fraction of azeotrope has proportional relation with the radiation faction of component.
Leaching Behavior Analysis of Valuable Metals from Lithium-Ion Batteries Cathode Material
Authors: Chen Wei Sheng , Ho Hsing Jung
Published: August 2018

The paper concerns an approach about using environmental technology and hydrometallurgical process to the recovery of valuable metal from waste cathode material produced during the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries. It is noteworthy that the content of nickel, manganese and cobalt from cathode material are in the extraordinary large proportion. In the acid leaching step, the essential effects of H2SO4 concentration, H2O2 concentration, leaching time, liquid-solid mass ratio and reaction temperature with the leaching percentage were investigated. The cathode material was leached with 2M H2SO4 and 10 vol.% H2O2 at 70 °C and 300 rpm using a liquid-solid mass ratio of 30 ml/g and the leaching efficiency of cobalt was 98.5%, lithium was 99.8%, nickel was 98.6% and manganese was 98.6% under optimum conditions. Kinetic study demonstrates the activation energies for those analyzed metals with Arrhenius equation and manifests the data with hybrid reaction control mechanism. The process was proved from activation energies ranged from 27.79 to 47.25 kJ/mol. Finally, the valuable metals will be leached in sulfuric acid effectively.
Extruded Mg-Sn-Al-Zn Alloys with Superior Tensile Properties
Authors: Kim Sang Hoon , Lee Jong Un , Moon Byoung Gi , Park Sung Hyuk
Published: August 2018

This study investigated the microstructure and tensile properties of three indirectly extruded Mg-Sn-Al-Zn alloys: Mg-11Sn-1Al-1Zn (TAZ1111), Mg-8Sn-4Al-1Zn (TAZ841), and Mg-8Sn-1Al-4Zn (TAZ814). The investigation results revealed that in all the alloys, Mg2Sn particles formed during solidification were not fully dissolved by homogenization treatment. These undissolved particles enhanced the dynamic recrystallization behavior through a particle-stimulated nucleation phenomenon. As a result, all the extruded alloys exhibited a fully dynamically recrystallized microstructure. The tensile yield strength (TYS) of the extruded alloys was in the following order: TAZ1111 > TAZ841 > TAZ814. In contrast, the elongation of the alloys was in the opposite order: TAZ814 > TAZ841 > TAZ1111. The highest TYS of the TAZ1111 alloy was attributed mainly to the smaller grain size and more abundant Mg2Sn precipitates resulting from a higher Sn content. However, the ultimate tensile strengths of all the extruded alloys were nearly the same because the Al or Zn atoms dissolved in the TAZ841 and TAZ814 alloys improved the strain hardening rate during plastic deformation.
Effect of High Temperature Aging on Wear Resistance of a High-Nitrogen Stainless Steel
Authors: Wang Du Xiong , Zhou Rui , Ding Guo Wang , Liu Cheng
Published: August 2018

The wear resistance of a Cr19Mn19Mo2N0.7 stainless steel treated by solution treatment 1160°C for 6h then aging at 900°C for different times is investigated in this paper. Microstructures are analyzed using optical microscopy (OM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). A fingerprint nitride (Cr2N) structure is formed during aging, which first nucleates within ferrite laths and along the austenite grain boundaries, and then grows into austenite with increasing aging time. It is shown from the laboratory wear test that the optimum wear resistance is obtained through a solution treatment at 1160°C for 6h and aging at 900°C for 3h, which is mainly attributed to a moderate amount of fingerprint nitrides formed within ferrite laths.
Effects of Elements on Mechanical and Electronic Properties of Ag from First-Principles Calculations
Authors: Ruan Hai Guang , Huang Fu Xiang , Zhong Ming Jun , Wu Bao An , Tang Hui Yi , Luo Wei Fan
Published: August 2018

The first-principles calculations were performed to research effects of elements X (Au, Be, Pd, Y, Ca, Cu, In and Zn) on mechanical and electronic properties of Ag with the density function theory (DFT). A supercell consisting of 107 atoms of Ag and one solute atom X was used. It was found that the bulk modulus of Ag dilute solutions were affected by the bulk modulus of pure alloying elements as well as their volume. The shear modulus G trend to decrease with increase of volume of Ag caused by alloying addition, but Ag-X covalent bond had positive correlation with shear modulus G. All of Ag107X alloys were ductility since theirs B/G ratio, Poisson's ratios ν were larger than 1.75 and 0.33, respectively. Comparing to other calculated Ag107X alloys, Ag107Be and Ag107Cu had the larger Vickers hardness, the value of which were 3.96GPa, 3.86GPa, respectively. There were not only metallic bonds (Ag-Ag) but also covalent bonds (Ag-X) in Ag107X alloys. The strong covalent bonds between Y, Zn, Ca and Ag were mainly caused by orbital hybridization between Y-5p orbital, Zn-3d orbital, Ca-3d orbitals and Ag-4d, 5s and 5p orbitals.
Semi-Analytical or Inverse Identification of Yoshida-Uemori Hardening Model
Authors: Zhu Jie , Huang Shang Yu , Liu Wei , Zou Xi Fan
Published: August 2018

The Yoshida-Uemori combined kinematic and isotropic hardening model is widely applied to numerical prediction of spring-back during sheet metal forming process. With the experimental plastic behavior of aluminum alloy AA5182-O sheet under single cyclic loading, the semi-analytical method was presented to calibrate the parameters of Yoshida-Uemori hardening model. Meanwhile, an inverse identification method was suggested by parameter optimization for minimizing the error between the experimental and predicted results. By comparing the two methods, the Yoshida-Uemori hardening model identified by inverse method is found to be more accurate for description of the Bauschinger effect than the one identified by semi-analytical method, especially for transient softening phenomenon.
Rock Wool and Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) as Partial Fine Aggregate Replacements in Cement Mortar
Authors: Namchan Panisara , Denpetkul T. , Pheinsusom P. , Khaodhiar Sutha
Published: August 2018

The utilization of industrial wastes such as, fly ash, silica fumes, and slag in construction materials, has been receiving increased attention due to its environmental friendliness and reduction of natural resources consumptions. This study investigates and compares the utilization of spent rock wool from industrial insulation and printed circuit boards (PCBs) (the non-metallic part) as a partial replacement for conventional fine aggregates in cement mortar. Each of the waste materials was used as a partial fine aggregate ranging from 0% to 20%, by weight. The cement mortar samples were cured at 7 days, 14 days and 28 days. To investigate the properties of the cement mortars with different amounts of industrial wastes, the density, compressive strength, transverse strength and thermal conductivity of each mortar variation were measured. The results indicate that the compressive and transverse strengths of the cement mortars decreased as more industrial wastes was present in the mixtures. However, the fine aggregate substitutes improved thermal resistance, as indicated by the decreasing thermal conductivity values of the cement mortars. Thus, the use of these two industrial wastes in cement mortar could be a viable option for non-structural and non-load bearing construction applications because these substitutes have the ability to produce mortar with suitable mechanical and insulating properties.
Mechanochemical Assisted Modification of Parawood Microcrystalline Cellulose Using Silane Coupling Agent and their Composites Properties
Authors: Chuayplod Patcharaporn , Aht-Ong Duangdao
Published: August 2018

Surface treated parawood microcrystalline cellulose (PW-MCC) performed under mechanochemical reaction using planetary ball milling at ambient temperature was used as a reinforcing material in polypropylene composites. Initially, PW-MCC was prepared by acid hydrolysis of parawood sawdust pulp. After that, PW-MCC was treated with vinyltrimethoxysilane at milling speed 400 rpm for 60 min. The surface composition from XPS indicated the existence of silicon atom on silane-treated PW-MCC. The thermal stability of PW-MCC was also improved and SEM micrograph revealed rough surface after modification reaction. The untreated PW-MCC and treated PW-MCC were applied to prepare polypropylene composites at 5-30 wt% loading content without a compatibilizer. The results demonstrated that silane-treated PW-MCC/PP composites enhanced tensile strength, thermal stability and water resistance of the composites.
Mechanical Properties of Natural Bamboo due to Tensile and Compression Loadings
Authors: Hadi Bambang K. , Subadra Agus , Kuswoyo Andi
Published: August 2018

This paper deals with mechanical properties of natural bamboo (Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea and Gigantochloa apus). Tensile and compression tests were done on these bamboo. It shows that Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea is better in the field of strength and modulus compared with Gigantochloa apus. Further analysis shows that the specific modulus and strength of these bamboo are better compared the data available in the literature, and even better compared with traditional engineering materials, such as mild steel, polyester resin or Glass Reinforced Plastics. Two parameter Weibull analysis were used to analysis the experimental data.
Stabilization of Soft Bangkok Clay Using Portland Cement and Calcium Sulfoaluminate-Belite Cement
Authors: Julphunthong Phongthorn , Thongdetsri Thanet , Chompoorat Thanakorn
Published: August 2018

The present study investigates the mechanical properties of soft Bangkok clay which was stabilized by ordinary Portland cement and calcium sulfoaluminate-belite (CSAB) cement. The CSAB cement was synthesized by using several types of industrial waste materials such as marble dust waste and flue gas desulfurization gypsum. The raw materials were mixed in designed proportion and calcined at 1,250 °C for 2 hours. The X-ray diffraction patterns suggested the clinker consists of ~58% of ye'elimite and ~35% of belite. The slurry soft Bangkok clay with liquidity index of 1.0, 1.3 and 1.5 was stabilized with ordinary Portland cement and CSAB cement in the range of 5 - 20%. Based on the laboratory study, mechanism of rising unconfined compressive strength results which soft clay stabilized with CSAB cement could observe from Scanning Electron Microscope images.
Lamination of Chitin-Cellulose Film and Thermoplastic Starch
Authors: Manuzon Maria Janine D. , Macailing Marianne L. , Diaz Leslie Joy L.
Published: August 2018

In this study, chitin-cellulose films (CC) and nanocomposite (NC) films were successfully laminated to thermoplastic starch (TPS). These were prepared using adhesive, controlled heated compression, and heated compression with adhesive. Lamination was investigated by utilizing direct tensile adhesion strength test to acquire the adhesion strength between the two layers. The highest adhesion strength of 0.502±0.036 MPa resulted for CC/TPS. Combination of failure at the interface and substrate was observed for most CC/TPS laminates. FTIR spectra indicated presence of -NH groups from chitin and -OH groups from starch and cellulose that could improve interfacial adhesion by hydrogen bonding. Scanning Electron Micrographs (SEM) showed a rough surface of chitin-cellulose films, and the clear continuity of CC film with TPS. An increase in modulus from from 0.342 ± 0.020 MPa for TPS to 1.059 ± 0.162 for CC/TPS and 0.939 ± 0.143 MPa for NC/TPS.
The PGI2 Analog Cicaprost Inhibits IL-33–Induced Th2 Responses, IL-2 Production, and CD25 Expression in Mouse CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Zhou Weisong , Zhang Jian , Toki Shinji , Goleniewska Kasia , Johnson Marc O. , Bloodworth Melissa H. , Newcomb Dawn C. , Peebles R. Stokes
Published: August 2018

IL-33 has pleiotropic functions in immune responses and promotes the development of allergic diseases and asthma. IL-33 induces Th2 differentiation and enhances type 2 cytokine production by CD4+ T cells. However, the regulation of IL-33–driven type 2 cytokine responses is not fully defined. In this study, we investigated the effect of PGI2, a lipid mediator formed in the cyclooxygenase pathway of arachidonic acid metabolism, on naive CD4+ T cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation by IL-33. Using wild-type and PGI2 receptor (IP) knockout mice, we found that the PGI2 analog cicaprost dose-dependently inhibited IL-33–driven IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 production by CD4+ T cells in an IP-specific manner. In addition, cicaprost inhibited IL-33–driven IL-2 production and CD25 expression by CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, IP knockout mice had increased IL-5 and IL-13 responses of CD4+ T cells to Alternaria sensitization and challenge in mouse lungs. Because IL-33 is critical for Alternaria-induced type 2 responses, these data suggest that PGI2 not only inhibits IL-33–stimulated CD4+ Th2 cell responses in vitro but also suppresses IL-33–induced Th2 responses caused by protease-containing allergens in vivo.
The Evolving Erythrocyte: Red Blood Cells as Modulators of Innate Immunity
Authors: Anderson H. Luke , Brodsky Igor E. , Mangalmurti Nilam S.
Published: August 2018

The field of red cell biology is undergoing a quiet revolution. Long assumed to be inert oxygen carriers, RBCs are emerging as important modulators of the innate immune response. Erythrocytes bind and scavenge chemokines, nucleic acids, and pathogens in circulation. Depending on the conditions of the microenvironment, erythrocytes may either promote immune activation or maintain immune quiescence. We examine erythrocyte immune function through a comparative and evolutionary lens, as this framework may offer perspective into newly recognized roles of human RBCs. Next, we review the known immune roles of human RBCs and discuss their activity in the context of sepsis where erythrocyte function may prove important to disease pathogenesis. Given the limited success of immunomodulatory therapies in treating inflammatory diseases, we propose that the immunologic function of RBCs provides an understudied and potentially rich area of research that may yield novel insights into mechanisms of immune regulation.
Prime-and-Trap Malaria Vaccination To Generate Protective CD8+ Liver-Resident Memory T Cells
Authors: Olsen Tayla M. , Stone Brad C. , Chuenchob Vorada , Murphy Sean C.
Published: August 2018

Tissue-resident memory CD8+ T (Trm) cells in the liver are critical for long-term protection against pre-erythrocytic Plasmodium infection. Such protection can usually be induced with three to five doses of i.v. administered radiation-attenuated sporozoites (RAS). To simplify and accelerate vaccination, we tested a DNA vaccine designed to induce potent T cell responses against the SYVPSAEQI epitope of Plasmodium yoelii circumsporozoite protein. In a heterologous “prime-and-trap” regimen, priming using gene gun–administered DNA and boosting with one dose of RAS attracted expanding Ag-specific CD8+ T cell populations to the liver, where they became Trm cells. Vaccinated in this manner, BALB/c mice were completely protected against challenge, an outcome not reliably achieved following one dose of RAS or following DNA-only vaccination. This study demonstrates that the combination of CD8+ T cell priming by DNA and boosting with liver-homing RAS enhances formation of a completely protective liver Trm cell response and suggests novel approaches for enhancing T cell–based pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccines.
The bundle Laplacian on discrete tori
Authors: Friedli Fabien
Published: August 2018

We prove an asymptotic formula for the determinant of the bundle Laplacian on discrete

d

-dimensional tori as the number of vertices tends to infinity. This determinant has a combinatorial interpretation in terms of cycle-rooted spanning forests. We also establish a relation (in the limit) between the spectral zeta function of a line bundle over a discrete torus, the spectral zeta function of the infinite graph

\mathbb Z^d

and the Epstein–Hurwitz zeta function. The latter can be viewed as the spectral zeta function of the twisted continuous torus which is the limit of the sequence of discrete tori.