bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Continuous Hydrothermal Liquefaction of Biomass in a Novel Pilot Plant with Heat Recovery and Hydraulic Oscillation
Authors: Anastasakis Konstantinos , Biller Patrick , Madsen René B. , Glasius Marianne , Johannsen Ib
Published: October 2018

Hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) is regarded as a promising technology for the production of biofuels from biomass and wastes. As such, there is a drive towards continuous-flow processing systems to aid process scale-up and eventually commercialization. The current study presents results from a novel pilot-scale HTL reactor with a feed capacity of up to 100 L/h and a process volume of approximately 20 L. The pilot plant employs a heat exchanger for heat recovery and a novel hydraulic oscillation system to increase the turbulence in the tubular reactor. The energy grass Miscanthus and the microalgae Spirulina, both representing advanced dedicated energy crops, as well as sewage sludge as high-potential waste stream were selected to assess the reactor performance. Biomass slurries with up to 16 wt% dry matter content were successfully processed. The heat recovery of the heat exchanger is found to increase with reactor run time, reaching 80% within 5–6 h of operation. The hydraulic oscillation system is shown to improve mixing and enhance heat transfer. Bio-crudes with average yields of 26 wt%, 33 wt% and 25 wt% were produced from Miscanthus, Spirulina and sewage sludge, respectively. The yields also appeared to increase with reactor run time. Bio-crude from HTL of Spirulina was mainly composed of palmitic acid, glycerol, heptadecane and linolelaidic acid, while biocrude from sewage sludge contained mainly palmitic acid, oleic acid and stearic acid. In contrast, biocrude from HTL of Miscanthus consisted of a large number of different phenolics. An energetic comparison between the three feedstocks revealed a thermal efficiency of 47%, 47% and 33% and energy return on investment (EROI) of 2.8, 3.3 and 0.5 for HTL of Miscanthus, Spirulina and sewage sludge, respectively.
Assessment of Wind Energy Potential as a Power Generation Source: A Case Study of Eight Selected Locations in Northern Cyprus
Authors: Alayat Mohamad M. , Kassem Youssef , Çamur Hüseyin
Published: October 2018

This paper presents a techno-economic assessment of the wind power potential for eight locations distributed over the Northern part of Cyprus. The wind speed data were collected from the meteorological department located in Lefkoşa, Northern Cyprus.Ten distribution models were used to analyze the wind speed characteristics and wind energy potential at the selected locations. The maximum-likelihood method was used for calculating the parameters of the distribution functions.The power law model is utilized to determine the mean wind speed at various heights. In addition, the wind power density for each location was estimated. Furthermore, the performances of different small-scale vertical axis 3–10 kW wind turbines were evaluated to find those that were suitable and efficient for power generation in the studied locations.The results showed that the annual mean wind speed in the regions is greater than 2 m/s at a height of 10 m. Moreover, it is indicated that Generalized Extreme Value distribution provided the best fit to the actual data for the regions of Lefkoşa, Ercan, Girne, Güzelyurt, and Dipkarpaz. However, the Log-Logistic, Weibull, and Gamma distributions gave a better fit to the actual data of Gazimağusa, YeniBoğaziçi, and Salamis, respectively. The Rayleigh distribution does not fit the actual data from all regions. Furthermore, the values of wind power densityat the areas studied ranged from 38.76 W/m2 to 134.29 W/m2 at a height of 50 m, which indicated that wind energy sources in these selected locations are classified as poor. Meanwhile, based on the wind analysis, small-scale wind turbine use can be suitable for generating electricity in the studied locations. Consequently, an Aeolos-V2 with a rating of 5 kW was found to be capable of producing the annual energy needs of an average household in Northern Cyprus.
Plant Attributes that Drive Dispersal and Establishment Limitation in Tropical Agricultural Landscapes
Authors: Peña-Domene Marinés de la , Martínez-Garza Cristina , Ayestarán-Hernández Luz María , Howe Henry F.
Published: October 2018

Factors that influence tropical-forest regeneration have been of interest across the tropics. We tested the degree of dispersal and establishment limitation of pioneer and non-pioneer tree species with different dispersal modes and seed sizes, using data on both seed fall and seedling establishment in primary forest, secondary forest, and pasture excluded from livestock. The study took place in a lowland tropical rain forest in southeastern Mexico. To calculate dispersal and establishment limitation, we used a density-weighted index that considers: (1) whether a seed or seedling of a given species has arrived in the sample area; and (2) the fraction of seeds or seedlings contributed by a given species relative to the total number of seeds or seedlings arriving at a sampling station. Dispersal limitation of non-pioneer species and animal-dispersed species decreased with succession. The secondary forest had less dispersal limitation for wind-dispersed pioneers than pasture, resulting in a dense aggregation of species with seeds dispersed by wind. Overall, establishment limitation differed between animal-dispersed and wind-dispersed species in the primary forest, and was negatively correlated with seed size. The low capacity of most species to arrive, germinate, and establish as seedlings in pastures slows succession back to forest. To overcome barriers to natural succession in pastures, transplanting seedlings of non-pioneer species is suggested because most of them show high dispersal and establishment limitation.
Responding to Climate Change in Tropical Countries Emerging from Armed Conflicts: Harnessing Climate Finance, Peacebuilding, and Sustainable Food
Authors: Castro-Nunez Augusto
Published: October 2018

Linking climate action with sustainable development goals (SDGs) might incentivize social and political support to forest conservation. However, further examination of the conceptual entry points for linking efforts for reducing forest-based emissions with those for delivering SDGs is required. This review paper aims to contribute to fulfilling this research need. It provides insights into the links between conserving forests for climate change mitigation and peacebuilding. Specifically, the paper examines opportunities to harness climate finance for conserving forests and achieving long-lasting peace and sustainable food. It does so via a literature review and the examination of the Orinoquia region of Colombia. The findings from the literature review suggest that harnessing climate finance for conserving forests and peacebuilding is, in theory, viable if the activities are designed in accordance with social, institutional, and economic factors. Meanwhile, the Orinoquia region provides evidence that these two seemingly intractable problems are proposed to be solved together. At a time when efforts for reducing forest-based emissions are being designed and targeted at (post-) conflict areas in Colombia and elsewhere, the paper’s findings might demonstrate the compatibility of programs aimed at reducing forest-based emissions with efforts relating to peacebuilding and sustainable food to both environmental and non-environmental government agencies.
Influence of Spatiotemporal Dynamics on the Fine-Scale Spatial Genetic Structure of Differently Managed Picea abies Stands
Authors: Piotti Andrea , Garbarino Matteo , Avanzi Camilla , Berretti Roberta , Motta Renzo , Piovani Paolo , Leonardi Stefano
Published: October 2018

The tandem analysis of dendrochronological and genetic data is piquing forest ecologists’ interest and represents a promising approach for studying the temporal development of genetic structure in forest tree populations. Such multidisciplinary approach can help elucidate to what extent different management practices have impacted the fine-scale spatial genetic structure of forest stands through time. In this study, we jointly analysed spatial, age and genetic data from three differently managed Norway spruce permanent plots to assess: (1) possible differences among plots in the spatial distribution of individuals and their genetic structure due to different management practices, and (2) whether modifications in the age structure influenced the fine-scale spatial genetic structure within each permanent plot. With these aims, we genetically characterized at five nuclear microsatellite markers a large subset (328) of all the trees for which spatial and age data were collected (1472). We found that different management practices determined a similar spatial structure in terms of trees’ ages (r < 25 m in all plots) and neutral genetic diversity (Sp ranging from 0.002 to 0.004). Hot spots and cold spots of trees’ age were not statistically different in terms of genetic diversity, and trees’ age was not statistically different among the genetic clusters detected. On the other hand, the spatial distribution of individuals was significantly clustered up to 22 m only in the wooded pasture plot. Our main findings show that forest land use and management can indeed determine markedly different spatial layouts of Norway spruce individuals but do not produce strong distortions in the spatial structure of age and genetic parameters.
The Use of Semigeostrophic Theory to Diagnose the Behaviour of an Atmospheric GCM
Authors: Cullen Mike
Published: October 2018

A diagnostic method is presented for analysing the large-scale behaviour of the Met Office Unified Model, which is a comprehensive atmospheric model used for weather and climate prediction. Outside the boundary layer, on scales larger than the radius of deformation, semi-geostrophic theory will give an accurate approximation to the model evolution. In particular, the ageostrophic circulation required to maintain geostrophic and hydrostatic balance against prescribed forcing and a rate of change of the geostrophic pressure can be calculated. In the tropics, the balance condition degenerates to the weak temperature gradient approximation. Within the boundary layer, the semi-geotriptic approximation has to be used because friction and rotation are equally important. Assuming the calculated pressure tendency and ageotriptic circulation match the observed model behaviour, the influence of the large-scale state and the nature of the forcing on the model response can be deduced in a straightforward way. The capabilities of the diagnostic are illustrated by comparing predictions of the ageotriptic circulation from the theory and the model. It is then used to show that the effects of latent heat release can be included by modifying the static stability, and to show the effect of an idealised tropical heat source on the subtropical jet. Finally, the response of the ageotriptic flow to boundary layer heating in the tropics is demonstrated. These illustrations show that the model behaviour on large scales conforms with theoretical expectations, so that the results of the diagnostic can be used to aid the development of further improvements to the model, in particular investigating systematic errors and understanding the large-scale atmospheric response to forcing.
Playing a Game or Making a Decision? Methodological Issues in the Measurement of Distributional Preferences
Authors: Greiff Matthias , Ackermann Kurt A. , Murphy Ryan O.
Published: October 2018

In terms of role assignment and informational characteristics, different contexts have been used when measuring distributional preferences. This could be problematic as contextual variance may inadvertently muddle the measurement process. We use a within-subjects design and systemically vary role assignment as well as the way information is displayed to subjects when measuring distributional preferences in resource allocation tasks as well as proper games. Specifically we examine choice behavior in the contexts of role certainty, role uncertainty, decomposed games, and matrix games. Results show that there is large heterogeneity in the choices people make when deciding how to allocate resources between themselves and some other person under different contextual frames. For instance, people make more prosocial choices under role uncertainty as compared to role certainty. Furthermore, altering the way information is displayed given a particular situation can have a more dramatic effect on choice behavior than altering the situation itself. That is, depending on how information is displayed, people may behave as if they would perform a non-strategic decision making task when in fact they are playing a proper game characterized by strategic interdependence.
Unraveling the Roles of Regulatory Genes during Domestication of Cultivated Camellia: Evidence and Insights from Comparative and Evolutionary Genomics
Authors: Yan Chao , Lin Ping , Lyu Tao , Hu Zhikang , Fan Zhengqi , Li Xinlei , Yao Xiaohua , Li Jiyuan , Yin Hengfu
Published: October 2018

With the increasing power of DNA sequencing, the genomics-based approach is becoming a promising resolution to dissect the molecular mechanism of domestication of complex traits in trees. Genus Camellia possesses rich resources with a substantial value for producing beverage, ornaments, edible oil and more. Currently, a vast number of genetic and genomic research studies in Camellia plants have emerged and provided an unprecedented opportunity to expedite the molecular breeding program. In this paper, we summarize the recent advances of gene expression and genomic resources in Camellia species and focus on identifying genes related to key economic traits such as flower and fruit development and stress tolerances. We investigate the genetic alterations and genomic impacts under different selection programs in closely related species. We discuss future directions of integrating large-scale population and quantitative genetics and multiple omics to identify key candidates to accelerate the breeding process. We propose that future work of exploiting the genomic data can provide insights related to the targets of domestication during breeding and the evolution of natural trait adaptations in genus Camellia.
Genes Contributing to Domestication of Rice Seed Traits and Its Global Expansion
Authors: Liu Haiyang , Li Qiuping , Xing Yongzhong
Published: October 2018

Asian rice (Oryza sativa) and African rice (Oryza glaberrima) are separately domesticated from their wild ancestors Oryza rufipogon and Oryza barthii, which are very sensitive to daylength. In the process of domestication, some traits that are favorable for the natural survival of wild rice such as seed dormancy and shattering have become favorable ones for human consumption due to the loss-of-function mutations in the genes that are underlying these traits. As a consequence, many genes that are related to these kinds of traits have been fixed with favorable alleles in modern cultivars by artificial selection. After domestication, Oryza sativa cultivars gradually spread to temperate and cool regions from the tropics and subtropics due to the loss of their photoperiod sensitivity. In this paper, we review the characteristics of domestication-related seed traits and heading dates in rice, including the key genes controlling these traits, the differences in allelic diversity between wild rice and cultivars, the geographic distribution of alleles, and the regulatory pathways of these traits. A comprehensive comparison shows that these genes contributed to rice domestication and its global expansion. In addition, these traits have also experienced parallel evolution by artificial selection on the homologues of key genes in other cereals.
Development of a Screening Method for Health Hazard Ranking and Scoring of Chemicals Using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi System
Authors: Huh Da-An , Lim Hong Lyuer , Sohn Jong-Ryeul , Byeon Sang-Hoon , Jung Soonyoung , Lee Woo-Kyun , Moon Kyong Whan
Published: October 2018

For efficient management of chemicals, it is necessary to preferentially select hazardous chemicals as being high-priority through a screening method. Over the past 20 years, chemical ranking and scoring (CRS) methods have been applied in many countries; however, these CRS methods have a few limitations. Most of the existing methods only use some of the variables to calculate the hazard of chemicals or use the most conservative score without consideration of the correlation between chemical toxicities. This evaluation could underestimate or overestimate the real health hazard of the chemicals. To overcome the limitations of these methods, we developed a new CRS method using the Mahalanobis–Taguchi System (MTS). The MTS, which conducts multivariate analysis, produced chemical rankings that took into accounts the correlation between variables related to chemical health hazards. Also, the proportion of chemicals managed by the Korea Chemicals Control Act that were given a high rating appeared to be higher when the MTS was used, compared to the existing methods. These results indicated that the new method evaluated the health hazards of chemicals more accurately, and we expect that the MTS method could be applied to a greater range of chemicals than the existing CRS methods.
The Epidemiology of Transition into Adulthood of Rare Diseases Patients: Results from a Population-Based Registry
Authors: Mazzucato Monica , Visonà Dalla Pozza Laura , Minichiello Cinzia , Manea Silvia , Barbieri Sara , Toto Ema , Vianello Andrea , Facchin Paola
Published: October 2018

Background: Despite the fact that a considerable number of patients diagnosed with childhood-onset rare diseases (RD) survive into adulthood, limited information is available on the epidemiology of this phenomenon, which has a considerable impact both on patients’ care and on the health services. This study describes the epidemiology of transition in a population of RD patients, using data from the Veneto Region Rare Diseases Registry (VRRDR), a web-based registry monitoring since 2002 a consistent number of RD in a defined area (4.9 million inhabitants). Methods: Longitudinal cohorts of patients born in the years 1988 to 1998 and enrolled in the VRRDR in their paediatric age were identified. Data referred to this group of patients, experiencing transition from paediatric to adult age during the years 2006–2016, are presented. Results: 2153 RD patients (44.1% females and 55.9% males) passed from childhood to adulthood in the study period, corresponding to a 3-fold increase from 2006 to 2016. The majority of these patients was affected by congenital anomalies (32.0%), by hematologic diseases (15.9%), eye disorders (12.1%) and neoplasms (7.9%). RD patients who experienced transition from paediatric age to adulthood represent the 9.2% of adult patients enrolled in the Registry at 31 December 2016. Conclusions: We described a subset of RD young adults experiencing transition into adulthood. The data reported can be considered as minimum values for estimating the size of this increasing population presenting specific transition needs. These figures are valuable for clinicians, patients and health planners. Public policy interventions are needed in order to promote dedicated care transition pathways in the broader framework of health policies devoted to RD.
Hypermethylation of CCND2 in Lung and Breast Cancer Is a Potential Biomarker and Drug Target
Authors: Hung Chin-Sheng , Wang Sheng-Chao , Yen Yi-Ting , Lee Tzong-Huei , Wen Wu-Che , Lin Ruo-Kai
Published: October 2018

Lung and breast cancer are the leading causes of mortality in women worldwide. The discovery of molecular alterations that underlie these two cancers and corresponding drugs has contributed to precision medicine. We found that CCND2 is a common target in lung and breast cancer. Hypermethylation of the CCND2 gene was reported previously; however, no comprehensive study has investigated the clinical significance of CCND2 alterations and its applications and drug discovery. Genome-wide methylation and quantitative methylation-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed CCND2 promoter hypermethylation in Taiwanese breast cancer patients. As compared with paired normal tissues and healthy individuals, CCND2 promoter hypermethylation was detected in 40.9% of breast tumors and 44.4% of plasma circulating cell-free DNA of patients. The western cohort of The Cancer Genome Atlas also demonstrated CCND2 promoter hypermethylation in female lung cancer, lung adenocarcinoma, and breast cancer patients and that CCND2 promoter hypermethylation is an independent poor prognostic factor. The cell model assay indicated that CCND2 expression inhibited cancer cell growth and migration ability. The demethylating agent antroquinonol D upregulated CCND2 expression, caused cell cycle arrest, and inhibited cancer cell growth and migration ability. In conclusion, hypermethylation of CCND2 is a potential diagnostic, prognostic marker and drug target, and it is induced by antroquinonol D.
In Vitro Fermentation of Selected Prebiotics and Their Effects on the Composition and Activity of the Adult Gut Microbiota
Authors: Fehlbaum Sophie , Prudence Kevin , Kieboom Jasper , Heerikhuisen Margreet , Van den Broek Tim , Schuren Frank H. J. , Steinert Robert E. , Raederstorff Daniel
Published: October 2018

Recently, the concept of prebiotics has been revisited to expand beyond non-digestible oligosaccharides, and the requirements for selective stimulation were extended to include microbial groups other than, and additional to, bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. Here, the gut microbiota-modulating effects of well-known and novel prebiotics were studied. An in vitro fermentation screening platform (i-screen) was inoculated with adult fecal microbiota, exposed to different dietary fibers that had a range of concentrations (inulin, alpha-linked galacto-oligosaccharides (alpha-GOS), beta-linked GOS, xylo-oligosaccharides (XOS) from corn cobs and high-fiber sugar cane, and beta-glucan from oats), and compared to a positive fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) control and a negative control (no fiber addition). All dietary fibers displayed prebiotic activity, with beta-glucan showing more distinct effects on the microbial composition and metabolism compared to the other fibers. Beta-glucan induced the growth of Prevotella and Roseburia with a concomitant increase in propionate production. Inulin and both forms of GOS and XOS had a strong bifidogenic effect on the microbial composition. A dose-response effect was observed for butyrate when exposed to beta-glucan and inulin. The findings of this study support the potential for alpha-GOS, XOS, and oat beta-glucan to serve as novel prebiotics, due to their association with the positive shifts in microbiome composition and short-chain fatty acid production that point to potential health benefits.
Induction of ATP Release, PPIX Transport, and Cholesterol Uptake by Human Red Blood Cells Using a New Family of TSPO Ligands
Authors: Marginedas-Freixa Irene , Alvarez Cora L. , Moras Martina , Hattab Claude , Bouyer Guillaume , Chene Arnaud , Lefevre Sophie D. , Le Van Kim Caroline , Bihel Frederic , Schwarzbaum Pablo J. , Ostuni Mariano A.
Published: October 2018

Two main isoforms of the Translocator Protein (TSPO) have been identified. TSPO1 is ubiquitous and is mainly present at the outer mitochondrial membrane of most eukaryotic cells, whereas, TSPO2 is specific to the erythroid lineage, located at the plasma membrane, the nucleus, and the endoplasmic reticulum. The design of specific tools is necessary to determine the molecular associations and functions of TSPO, which remain controversial nowadays. We recently demonstrated that TSPO2 is involved in a supramolecular complex of the erythrocyte membrane, where micromolar doses of the classical TSPO ligands induce ATP release and zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPPIX) transport. In this work, three newly-designed ligands (NCS1016, NCS1018, and NCS1026) were assessed for their ability to modulate the functions of various erythrocyte’s and compare them to the TSPO classical ligands. The three new ligands were effective in reducing intraerythrocytic Plasmodium growth, without compromising erythrocyte survival. While NCS1016 and NCS1018 were the most effective ligands in delaying sorbitol-induced hemolysis, NCS1016 induced the highest uptake of ZnPPIX and NCS1026 was the only ligand inhibiting the cholesterol uptake. Differential effects of ligands are probably due, not only, to ligand features, but also to the dynamic interaction of TSPO with various partners at the cell membrane. Further studies are necessary to fully understand the mechanisms of the TSPO’s complex activation.
Biochemical Characterization of the GBA2 c.1780G>C Missense Mutation in Lymphoblastoid Cells from Patients with Spastic Ataxia
Authors: Malekkou Anna , Samarani Maura , Drousiotou Anthi , Votsi Christina , Sonnino Sandro , Pantzaris Marios , Chiricozzi Elena , Zamba-Papanicolaou Eleni , Aureli Massimo , Loberto Nicoletta , Christodoulou Kyproula
Published: October 2018

The GBA2 gene encodes the non-lysosomal glucosylceramidase (NLGase), an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of glucosylceramide (GlcCer) to ceramide and glucose. Mutations in GBA2 have been associated with the development of neurological disorders such as autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia, hereditary spastic paraplegia, and Marinesco-Sjogren-Like Syndrome. Our group has previously identified the GBA2 c.1780G>C [p.Asp594His] missense mutation, in a Cypriot consanguineous family with spastic ataxia. In this study, we carried out a biochemical characterization of lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from three patients of this family. We found that the mutation strongly reduce NLGase activity both intracellularly and at the plasma membrane level. Additionally, we observed a two-fold increase of GlcCer content in LCLs derived from patients compared to controls, with the C16 lipid being the most abundant GlcCer species. Moreover, we showed that there is an apparent compensatory effect between NLGase and the lysosomal glucosylceramidase (GCase), since we found that the activity of GCase was three-fold higher in LCLs derived from patients compared to controls. We conclude that the c.1780G>C mutation results in NLGase loss of function with abolishment of the enzymatic activity and accumulation of GlcCer accompanied by a compensatory increase in GCase.
Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling as a Potential Target for the Treatment of Liver Cirrhosis Using Antifibrotic Drugs
Authors: Nishikawa Koji , Osawa Yosuke , Kimura Kiminori
Published: October 2018

Cirrhosis is a form of liver fibrosis resulting from chronic hepatitis and caused by various liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver damage, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and autoimmune liver disease. Cirrhosis leads to various complications, resulting in poor prognoses; therefore, it is important to develop novel antifibrotic therapies to counter liver cirrhosis. Wnt/β-catenin signaling is associated with the development of tissue fibrosis, making it a major therapeutic target for treating liver fibrosis. In this review, we present recent insights into the correlation between Wnt/β-catenin signaling and liver fibrosis and discuss the antifibrotic effects of the cAMP-response element binding protein/β-catenin inhibitor PRI-724.
Robotic Choreography Inspired by the Method of Human Dance Creation
Authors: Peng Hua , Li Jing , Hu Huosheng , Zhou Changle , Ding Yulong
Published: October 2018

In general, human dance is created by the imagination and innovativeness of human dancers, which in turn provides an inspiration for robotic choreography generation. This paper proposes a novel mechanism for a humanoid robot to create good choreography autonomously with the imagination of human dance. Such a mechanism combines innovativeness with the characteristic preservation of human dance, and enables a humanoid robot to present the characteristics of “imitation, memory, imagination, process and combination”. The proposed mechanism has been implemented on a real humanoid robot, NAO, to verify its feasibility and performance. Experimental results are presented to demonstrate good performance of the proposed mechanism.
Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Recessive Hereditary Methaemoglobinaemia Type II
Authors: Siendones Emilio , Ballesteros Manuel , Navas Plácido
Published: October 2018

Cytochrome b5 reductase 3 (CYB5R3) is a membrane-bound NADH-dependent redox enzyme anchored to the mitochondrial outer membrane, endoplasmic reticulum, and plasma membrane. Recessive hereditary methaemoglobinaemia (RHM) type II is caused by CYB5R3 deficiency and is an incurable disease characterized by severe encephalopathy with mental retardation, microcephaly, generalized dystonia, and movement disorders. Currently, the etiology of type II RHM is poorly understood and there is no treatment for encephalopathy associated with this disease. Defective CYB5R3 leads to defects in the elongation and desaturation of fatty acids and cholesterol biosynthesis, which are conventionally linked with neurological disorders of type II RHM. Nevertheless, this abnormal lipid metabolism cannot explain all manifestations observed in patients. Current molecular and cellular studies indicate that CYB5R3 deficiency has pleiotropic tissue effects. Its localization in lipid rafts of neurons indicates its role in interneuronal contacts and its presence in caveolae of the vascular endothelial membrane suggests a role in the modulation of nitric oxide diffusion. Its role in aerobic metabolism and oxidative stress in fibroblasts, neurons, and cardiomyocytes has been reported to be due to its ability to modulate the intracellular ratio of NAD+/NADH. Based on the new molecular and cellular functions discovered for CYB5R3 linked to the plasma membrane and mitochondria, the conventional conception that the cause of type II RHM is a lipid metabolism disorder should be revised. We hypothesized that neurological symptoms of the disease could be caused by disorders in the synapse, aerobic metabolism, and/or vascular homeostasis rather than in disturbances of lipid metabolism.
Significance of a Non-Thermal Plasma Treatment on LDPE Biodegradation with Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Authors: Scally Laurence , Gulan Miroslav , Weigang Lars , Cullen Patrick J. , Milosavljevic Vladimir
Published: October 2018

The use of plastics has spanned across almost all aspects of day to day life. Although their uses are invaluable, they contribute to the generation of a lot of waste products that end up in the environment and end up polluting natural habitats such as forests and the ocean. By treating low-density polyethylene (LDPE) samples with non-thermal plasma in ambient air and with an addition of ≈4% CO2, the biodegradation of the samples can be increased due to an increase in oxidative species causing better cell adhesion and acceptance on the polymer sample surface. It was, however, found that the use of this slight addition of CO2 aided in the biodegradation of the LDPE samples more than with solely ambient air as the carbon bonds measured from Raman spectroscopy were seen to decrease even more with this change in gas composition and chemistry. The results show that the largest increase of polymer degradation occurs when a voltage of 32 kV is applied over 300 s and with a mixture of ambient air and CO2 in the ratio 25:1.
Fabrication of an Optical Waveguide-Mode-Field Compressor in Glass Using a Femtosecond Laser
Authors: Liu Zhengming , Liao Yang , Wang Zhenhua , Zhang Zhihao , Liu Zhaoxiang , Qiao Lingling , Cheng Ya
Published: October 2018

We report on fabrication of an optical waveguide-mode-field compressor in glass using a femtosecond laser. Our approach is based on building up a stress field within the waveguiding area which is realized by sandwiching the waveguide between a pair of laser-induced-modification-tracks. To induce an adiabatic conversion of the optical mode in the waveguide, the tracks are intentionally designed to be tapered along the waveguide. We show that our technique can allow for reducing the mode field size in a single mode waveguide from more than 10 μm to around 7 μm.
Functionalization of Silk with In-Situ Synthesized Platinum Nanoparticles
Authors: Zou Fan , Zhou Ji , Zhang Jin , Li Jingliang , Tang Bin , Chen Wu , Wang Jinfeng , Wang Xungai
Published: October 2018

After platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) were in-situ synthesized on silk fabrics through heat treatment, it was determined that the treatment of the silk fabrics with PtNPs imparted multiple functions, including coloring, catalysis, and antibacterial activity. The formation of PtNPs on fabrics was affected by the Pt ion concentration, pH value of solution, and reaction temperature. Acidic condition and high temperature were found to facilitate the formation of PtNPs on silk. The color strength of silk fabrics increased with the concentration of Pt ions. The PtNP treated silk fabrics exhibited reasonably good washing color fastness and excellent rubbing color fastness. The morphologies and chemical components of the treated silk fabrics were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The PtNP treated silk fabric exhibited significant catalytic function and a notable antibacterial effect against Escherichia coli (E. coli).
The Safety Properties of a Potential Kind of Novel Green Primary Explosive: Al/Fe2O3/RDX Nanocomposite
Authors: Luo Qingping , Long Xinping , Nie Fude , Liu Guixiang , Zhu Mingshui
Published: October 2018

Green primary explosives have gained wide attention for environmental protection. A potential novel lead-free primary explosive, Al/Fe2O3/RDX hybrid nanocomposite was prepared by ultrasonic mixing, and its safety properties are discussed in detail. Results showed that their sensitivity and safety properties were a function of the specific surface area and proportions of their ingredients. Their impact sensitivity fell and their static discharge, flame, and hot bridge wire sensitivities rose as the specific surface area of nano-Fe2O3 increased. As the amount of Al/Fe2O3 nanothermite was increased, its impact sensitivity fell and its flame sensitivity rose; their static discharge and hot bridge wire sensitivities, however, followed an inverted “U” type change trend and were determined by both the particle size of the ingredients and the resistance of the nanocomposite. Their firing properties in an electric detonator depended on the proportion of the constituents. Thus, green nanoscale primary explosives are appropriate for a range of initiatory applications and can be created by adjusting their specific surface area and the amount of their constituents.
Surface Area Evaluation of Electrically Conductive Polymer-Based Textiles
Authors: Vojtech Lukas , Neruda Marek , Reichl Tomas , Dusek Karel , De la Torre Megías Cristina
Published: October 2018

In this paper, the surface area of coated polymer-based textiles, i.e., copper and nickel plated woven polyester fabric, copper and acrylic coated woven polyester fabric, and copper and acrylic coated non-woven polyamide fabric, is investigated. In order to evaluate the surface area of the woven fabrics, Peirce’s geometrical model of the interlacing point and measurement using an electron microscope are used. Non-woven fabrics are evaluated using an optical method, handmade method, and MATLAB functions. An electrochemical method, based on the measurement of the resistance between two electrodes, is used for relative comparison of the effective surface area of the coated woven and non-woven fabrics. The experimental results show that the measured and calculated warp lengths do not differ within the standard deviation. The model for the surface area evaluation of the Pierce’s geometrical model for monofilament (non-fibrous) yarns is extended to multifilament yarns and to a uniform sample size. The experimental results show the increasing trend of surface area evaluation using both modeling and electrochemical methods, i.e., the surface area of the copper and acrylic coated woven Polyester fabric (PES) is the smallest surface area of investigated samples, followed by the surface area of the copper and acrylic coated non-woven fabric, and by copper and nickel plated woven PES fabric. These methods can be used for surface area evaluation of coated polymer-based textiles in the development of supercapacitors, electrochemical cells, or electrochemical catalysts.
New Insight to the Effects of Heat Treatment in Air on the Permeation Properties of Thin Pd77%Ag23% Membranes
Authors: Vicinanza Nicla , Svenum Ingeborg-Helene , Peters Thijs , Bredesen Rune , Venvik Hilde
Published: October 2018

Sputtered Pd77%Ag23% membranes of thickness 2.2–8.5 µm were subjected to a three-step heat treatment in air (HTA) to investigate the relation between thickness and the reported beneficial effects of HTA on hydrogen transport. The permeability experiments were complimented by volumetric hydrogen sorption measurements and atomic force microscopy (AFM) imaging in order to relate the observed effects to changes in hydrogen solubility and/or structure. The results show that the HTA—essentially an oxidation-reduction cycle—mainly affects the thinner membranes, with the hydrogen flux increasing stepwise upon HTA of each membrane side. The hydrogen solubility is found to remain constant upon HTA, and the change must therefore be attributed to improved transport kinetics. The HTA procedure appears to shift the transition from the surface to bulk-limited transport to lower thickness, roughly from ~5 to ≤2.2 µm under the conditions applied here. Although the surface topography results indicate that HTA influences the surface roughness and increases the effective membrane surface area, this cannot be the sole explanation for the observed hydrogen flux increase. This is because considerable surface roughening occurs during hydrogen permeation (no HTA) as well, but not accompanied by the same hydrogen flux enhancement. The latter effect is particularly pronounced for thinner membranes, implying that the structural changes may be dependent on the magnitude of the hydrogen flux.
Corrosion Behavior of X80 Pipe Steel under HVDC Interference in Sandy Soil
Authors: Qin Runzhi , Du Yanxia , Jiang Zitao , Wang Xiuyun , Fu Anqing , Lu Yi
Published: October 2018

With the development of high voltage direct current (HVDC) systems, some pipelines have been badly interfered. The corrosion mechanism of pipelines has not been clearly clarified. In this work, laboratory experiments were designed to study the corrosion behavior of X80 steel under HVDC interference in sandy soil. The corrosion rates were related to the change in direct current (DC) density, which experienced three stages in the interference process. As soon as high DC interference voltage was applied to the working electrode, the current density increased sharply to a peak value in a few seconds. It then decreased rapidly to a steady value over dozens of seconds. Finally, it remained steady for the remaining time. With the measurement of local soil properties, the change in DC density was attributed to the local soil temperature increment, the water content decrement, and the substantial growth in the soil spread resistance. Moreover, the parameters contribute to the corrosion reaction during the interference process. The corrosion products were characterized at different times of interference via Raman spectroscopy. Lepidocrocite was produced under high DC density and then transformed to hematite under low DC density. Based on the above, the corrosion model during HVDC interference is proposed.
Automatic Frequency Tuning Technology for Dual-Mass MEMS Gyroscope Based on a Quadrature Modulation Signal
Authors: Jia Jia , Ding Xukai , Gao Yang , Li Hongsheng
Published: October 2018

In order to eliminate the frequency mismatch of MEMS (Microelectromechanical Systems) gyroscopes, this paper proposes a frequency tuning technology based on a quadrature modulation signal. A sinusoidal signal having a frequency greater the gyroscope operating bandwidth is applied to the quadrature stiffness correction combs, and the modulation signal containing the frequency split information is then excited at the gyroscope output. The effects of quadrature correction combs and frequency tuning combs on the resonant frequency of gyroscope are analyzed. The tuning principle based on low frequency input excitation is analyzed, and the tuning system adopting this principle is designed and simulated. The experiments are arranged to verify the theoretical analysis. The wide temperature range test (-20 ∘ C –60 ∘ C ) demonstrates the reliability of the tuning system with a maximum mismatch frequency of less than 0.3 Hz. The scale factor test and static test were carried out at three temperature conditions (−20 ∘ C, room temperature, 60 ∘ C), and the scale factor, zero-bias instability, and angle random walk are improved. Moreover, the closed-loop detection method is adopted, which improves the scale factor nonlinearity and bandwidth under the premise of maintaining the same static performances compared with the open-loop detection by tuning.
Optimization of Fermentation Condition for Echinacoside Yield Improvement with Penicillium sp. H1, an Endophytic Fungus Isolated from Ligustrum lucidum Ait Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Xu Fangxue , Cao Hui , Cui Xiaowei , Guo Hong , Han Chunchao
Published: October 2018

(1) Background: Application of echinacoside has become increasingly important for its significant biological activities. However, there are many disadvantages in existing synthesis methods such as contaminating the environment, harsh reaction conditions and so on. Therefore, it is urgent to invent a novel alternative method that can increase the yield of echinacoside. (2) Methods: In this study, we isolated and purified an endophyte from the leaves of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. Then, we improved the yield of echinacoside by optimizing the fermentation condition with an endophytic fungus. Penicillium sp. H1 was isolated from Ligustrum lucidum Ait. In addition, response surface methodology was used to optimize the fermentation condition. (3) Results: The results indicate that the maximal yield of echinacoside (37.16 mg/L) was obtained when inoculation rate, temperature and days were 13.98%, 27.85 °C and 26.06 days, respectively. The yield of echinacoside was 150.47 times higher under the optimal conditions than under the control conditions. The results indicate that the yield of echinacoside could be improved with endophytic fermentation by optimizing the fermentation condition. We provide an alternative method for echinacoside production by endophytic fermentation in this paper. It may have a profound effect on the application of echinacoside.
Kaempferol Attenuates ROS-Induced Hemolysis and the Molecular Mechanism of Its Induction of Apoptosis on Bladder Cancer
Authors: Wu Ping , Meng Xiaofeng , Zheng Huade , Zeng Qin , Chen Tianfeng , Wang Wen , Zhang Xia , Su Jianyu
Published: October 2018

Bladder cancer has become the most common malignant urinary carcinoma. Studies have shown that significant antioxidant and bladder cancer-fighting properties of several plant-based diets like Psidium guajava, ginger and amomum, are associated with their high kaempferol content. In this paper, we evaluated the antioxidant and anticancer activities of kaempferol and its mechanism of induction to apoptosis on bladder cancer cells. Our findings demonstrated that kaempferol showed an obvious radical scavenging activity in erythrocytes damaged by oxygen. Kaempferol promoted antioxidant enzymes, inhibited ROS generation and lipid peroxidation and finally prevented the occurrence of hemolysis. Additionally, kaempferol exhibited a strong inhibitory effect on bladder cancer cells and high safety on normal bladder cells. At the molecular level, kaempferol suppressed EJ bladder cancer cell proliferation by inhibiting the function of phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT), CyclinD1, CDK4, Bid, Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL, and promoting p-BRCA1, p-ATM, p53, p21, p38, Bax and Bid expression, and finally triggering apoptosis and S phase arrest. We found that Kaempferol exhibited strong anti-oxidant activity on erythrocyte and inhibitory effects on the growth of cancerous bladder cells through inducing apoptosis and S phase arrest. These findings suggested that kaempferol might be regarded as a bioactive food ingredient to prevent oxidative damage and treat bladder cancer.
Determination of Trace Nickel in Water Samples by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry after Mixed Micelle-Mediated Cloud Point Extraction
Authors: Han Quan , Huo Yanyan , Yang Longhu , Yang Xiaohui , He Yaping , Wu Jiangyan
Published: October 2018

A simple and sensitive cloud point extraction method for the preconcentration of ultra-trace amounts of nickel as a prior step to its determination by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry was proposed. It is based on the reaction of nickel with 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-dimethylaminoaniline (5-Br-PADMA) in HAc–NaAc buffer media and mixed micelle-mediated extraction of the complex using the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate sodium (SDS) and non-ionic surfactant (1,1,3,3-Tetramethylbutyl)phenyl-polyethylene (Triton X-114). The optimal reaction and extraction conditions such as pH, concentration of 5-Br-PADMA, SDS and Triton X-114, equilibrium temperature, incubation, and centrifuge time were evaluated and optimized. Under the optimal conditions, the calibration graph was linear over the range 0.1–5.5 ng/mL of nickel with a correlation coefficient of 0.9942. The detection limit obtained was 0.031 ng/mL, and the relative standard deviation was 2.1% for nickel (c = 2 ng/mL, n = 6). The proposed method was successfully applied to the determination of nickel in water samples.
Tailoring Perpendicular Exchange Bias Coupling in Au/Co/NiO Systems by Ion Bombardment
Authors: Kuświk Piotr , Gaul Alexander , Urbaniak Maciej , Schmidt Marek , Aleksiejew Jacek , Ehresmann Arno , Stobiecki Feliks
Published: October 2018

Here, we systematically investigated the influence of ion bombardment with different fluences on the strength and direction of the exchange bias coupling in Au/Co/NiO systems with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy of the Co layer. We found that the direction of the exchange bias coupling can be reversed as a result of ion bombardment performed in an external magnetic field which is in the opposite direction to the magnetic field applied during film deposition. Moreover, the strength of the exchange bias coupling can be tailored by varying the ion fluence. These results show behaviors similar to the results found for systems of ferromagnetic layers with in-plane anisotropy. Our experimental work, supported by a two-energy-level model, demonstrates that exchange bias coupling can be tuned in a layered system with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy using ion bombardment.