bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State-Dependent Effects of Transcranial Oscillatory Currents on the Motor System during Action Observation
Authors: Feurra Matteo , Blagovechtchenski Evgeny , Nikulin Vadim V. , Nazarova Maria , Lebedeva Anna , Pozdeeva Daria , Yurevich Maria , Rossi Simone
Published: September 2019

We applied transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) to the primary motor cortex (M1) at different frequencies during an index–thumb pinch-grip observation task. To estimate changes in the corticospinal output, we used the size of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) obtained by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of M1 using an online MRI-guided simultaneous TMS-tACS approach. The results of the beta-tACS confirm a non-selective increase in corticospinal excitability in subjects at rest; an increase was observed for both of the tested hand muscles, the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and the abductor digiti minimi (ADM). However, during action observation of the pinch-grip movement, the increase of corticospinal excitability was only observed for the prime mover FDI muscle and took place during alpha-tACS, while gamma-tACS affected both the FDI and control muscle (ADM) responses. These phenomena likely reflect the hypothesis that the mu and gamma rhythms specifically index the downstream modulation of primary sensorimotor areas by engaging mirror neuron activity. The current neuromodulation approach confirms that tACS can be used to induce neurophysiologically detectable state-dependent enhancement effects, even in complex motor-cognitive tasks.
Profiling of lung microbiota discloses differences in adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gomes Sílvia , Cavadas Bruno , Ferreira Joana Catarina , Marques Patrícia Isabel , Monteiro Catarina , Sucena Maria , Sousa Catarina , Vaz Rodrigues Luís , Teixeira Gilberto , Pinto Paula , Tavares de Abreu Tiago , Bárbara Cristina , Semedo Júlio , Mota Leonor , Carvalho Ana Sofia , Matthiesen Rune , Pereira Luísa , Seixas Susana
Published: September 2019

The lung is a complex ecosystem of host cells and microbes often disrupted in pathological conditions. Although bacteria have been hypothesized as agents of carcinogenesis, little is known about microbiota profile of the most prevalent cancer subtypes: adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). To characterize lung cancer (LC) microbiota a first a screening was performed through a pooled sequencing approach of 16S ribosomal RNA gene (V3-V6) using a total of 103 bronchoalveaolar lavage fluid samples. Then, identified taxa were used to inspect 1009 cases from The Cancer Genome Atlas and to annotate tumor unmapped RNAseq reads. Microbial diversity was analyzed per cancer subtype, history of cigarette smoking and airflow obstruction, among other clinical data. We show that LC microbiota is enriched in Proteobacteria and more diverse in SCC than ADC, particularly in males and heavier smokers. High frequencies of Proteobacteria were found to discriminate a major cluster, further subdivided into well-defined communities’ associated with either ADC or SCC. Here, a SCC subcluster differing from other cases by a worse survival was correlated with several Enterobacteriaceae. Overall, this study provides first evidence for a correlation between lung microbiota and cancer subtype and for its influence on patient life expectancy.
Use of an Environmental Pollutant From Hexavalent Chromium Removal as a Green Catalyst in The Fenton Process
Authors: Chagas Pricila Maria Batista , Caetano Aline Aparecida , Tireli Aline Auxiliadora , Cesar Pedro Henrique Souza , Corrêa Angelita Duarte , Guimarães Iara do Rosário
Published: September 2019

The present study refers to the use of an environmental pollutant generated during the removal of hexavalent chromium from aqueous media. This pollutant is a material with catalytic properties suitable for application in the oxidative degradation of problematic organic compounds. The material, initially used as an adsorbent, is a composite prepared by modifying the crystalline phases of iron oxides together with the chitosan (CT-FeCr). Chemical and morphological characterizations of the materials were performed using SEM analysis coupled with EDS, XRD and DSC. The CT-FeCr beads were used in the degradation of methylene blue dye (MB) and showed excellent degradation potential (93.6%). The presence of Cr on the surface of the catalyst was responsible for the increase in catalytic activity compared to the CT-Fe and pure magnetite materials. The product of the effluent treatment and the presence of the catalyst itself in the environment do not pose toxic effects. In addition, the CT-FeCr beads showed catalytic stability for several consecutive reaction cycles with possible technical and economic viability. The concept of “industrial symbiosis” may be applied to this technology, with that term relating to the reuse of a byproduct generated in one particular industrial sector by another as a raw material.
A critical period for faces: Other-race face recognition is improved by childhood but not adult social contact
Authors: McKone Elinor , Wan Lulu , Pidcock Madeleine , Crookes Kate , Reynolds Katherine , Dawel Amy , Kidd Evan , Fiorentini Chiara
Published: September 2019

Poor recognition of other-race faces is ubiquitous around the world. We resolve a longstanding contradiction in the literature concerning whether interracial social contact improves the other-race effect. For the first time, we measure the age at which contact was experienced. Taking advantage of unusual demographics allowing dissociation of childhood from adult contact, results show sufficient childhood contact eliminated poor other-race recognition altogether (confirming inter-country adoption studies). Critically, however, the developmental window for easy acquisition of other-race faces closed by approximately 12 years of age and social contact as an adult — even over several years and involving many other-race friends — produced no improvement. Theoretically, this pattern of developmental change in plasticity mirrors that found in language, suggesting a shared origin grounded in the functional importance of both skills to social communication. Practically, results imply that, where parents wish to ensure their offspring develop the perceptual skills needed to recognise other-race people easily, childhood experience should be encouraged: just as an English-speaking person who moves to France as a child (but not an adult) can easily become a native speaker of French, we can easily become “native recognisers” of other-race faces via natural social exposure obtained in childhood, but not later.
Serotonin is elevated in risk-genotype carriers of TCF7L2 - rs7903146
Authors: Leiherer Andreas , Muendlein Axel , Saely Christoph H. , Fraunberger Peter , Drexel Heinz
Published: September 2019

The transcription factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) polymorphism rs7903146 is known to be tightly associated with an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes, whereas the molecular mechanisms remain elusive. We evaluated the metabolic profile of a total of 394 patients’ serum samples with respect to their rs7903146 genotype using targeted metabolomics in a discovery (n = 154) and a validation (n = 240) study. We have identified serotonin as the top metabolite being increased in carriers of the risk allele. Serotonin was significantly associated with the rs7903146 genotype after full adjustment including type 2 diabetes and further top ranked metabolites. Given the role of peripheral serotonin in metabolic homeostasis and type 2 diabetes, this finding provides a first hint that the well-known impact of the TCF7L2 polymorphism on type 2 diabetes risk may involve a serotonin-dependent pathway.
In vitro evolution of Pseudomonas aeruginosa AA2 biofilms in the presence of cystic fibrosis lung microbiome members
Authors: Vandeplassche Eva , Sass Andrea , Lemarcq Astrid , Dandekar Ajai A. , Coenye Tom , Crabbé Aurélie
Published: September 2019

In cystic fibrosis (CF) airways, the opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosaevolves from an acute to a chronic infection phenotype. Yet, thein vivofactors influencing the evolutionary trajectory ofP.aeruginosaare poorly understood. This study aimed at understanding the role of the CF lung microbiome inP.aeruginosaevolution. Therefore, we investigated thein vitrobiofilm evolution of an early CFP.aeruginosaisolate, AA2, in the presence or absence of a synthetic CF lung microbiome. Whole genome sequencing of evolved populations revealed mutations in quorum sensing (QS) genes (lasR,pqsR) with and without the microbiome. Phenotypic assays confirmed decreased production of the QS molecule 3-O-C12-homoserine lactone, and QS-regulated virulence factors pyocyanin and protease. Furthermore, a mixture oflasRandlasR pqsRmutants was found, in which double mutants showed less pyocyanin and protease production thanlasRmutants. While the microbial community did not influence the production of the testedP.aeruginosavirulence factors, we observed a trend towards more mutations in the transcriptional regulatorsgntRandmexLwhenP.aeruginosawas grown alone.P.aeruginosadeveloped resistance to β-lactam antibiotics during evolution, when grown with and without the microbiome. In conclusion, in an experimental biofilm environment, the earlyP.aeruginosaCF isolate AA2 evolves towards a CF-like genotype and phenotype, and most studied evolutionary adaptations are not impacted by CF microbiome members.
Pollination ecology of the ghost orchid (Dendrophylax lindenii): A first description with new hypotheses for Darwin’s orchids
Authors: Houlihan Peter R. , Stone Mac , Clem Shawn E. , Owen Mike , Emmel Thomas C.
Published: September 2019

The structural variation of orchids enables myriad fascinating symbiotic relationships with organisms across kingdoms. Orchids are frequently known for having elaborate arms races with their pollinators that result in intricate morphologies in both parties, and flowers with long corollas hypothesized to be pollinated only by individual species of long tongued hawkmoths are of particular concern for conservation. Florida’s endangered ghost orchid, Dendrophylax lindenii, has long been confidently assumed to be pollinated by one species (Cocytius antaeus), despite the presence of a resident community of multiple suitable long-tongued candidates. Here we present the first description of ghost orchid pollination, and describe novel remote camera trapping methods. Pollination of D. lindenii by Pachylia ficus disproves long-standing hypotheses concerning the pollination ecology of long-spurred orchids, and new multiple pollinator hypotheses are proposed. We discuss the broader implications for the conservation of an endangered species, orchids globally, and the importance of Everglades restoration.
An Overview of Electronic Waste Management in the UK
Authors: Reeve Sam , Eduljee Gev
Published: September 2019

The UK's system for the management of electronic waste is driven by the imperatives of the EU's policy and legislative landscape. Although generally meeting targets for collection, reuse and recycling in previous years, the UK fell short of newly defined EU targets in 2017 and 2018, with collection rates for electronic waste below expectations and stagnating. Weaknesses identified in the present UK system include poor capture and reporting of unregistered non-obligated flows resulting in differences between the waste generated and waste collected, the presence of free-riders such as unregistered online retailers, and thefts from processing sites. Improving the robustness, granularity and responsiveness of data on obligated and unreported electronics across the supply chain is seen as a key priority in setting credible targets for obligated producers. England's Resources and Waste Strategy contains several positive commitments that represent a step change from previous strategies: a review of the relevant regulations; increased partnership working, incorporating ecodesign incentives into the producer responsibility regime; and developing a product assurance scheme with a certified mark. Coupled with high profile voluntary schemes formalising public commitments of big brands, the prospects for electronic waste management in the UK seem positive, with actions shared between the private, public and third sectors.
Management of Electronic Waste in Africa
Authors: Bates Margaret , Osibanjo Oladele
Published: September 2019

The issue of electronic (e-) waste is of growing concern across Africa. Increases in the use of personal computers, mobile phones and other electrical and electronic equipment has caused a rise in the disposal of end of life products in a continent where infrastructure for the environmentally sound treatment is scarce. This chapter reviews the impacts of the rise in e-waste across Africa. The illegal importation of e-waste and the demand for second hand items is considered. Data for Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa are considered as these countries are taking concrete steps to address and embed environmentally sound management of e-waste in their legislation and practices. The deleterious effects on people working in the sector are described along with the deterioration in the environment and potential long-term concerns if current practices are not improved. A range of initiatives and projects have been proposed to bring about change, such as Best of Two Worlds, an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) model, as well as industrial recycling solutions. Recommendations are provided for the adoption of environmentally sound management of e-waste across Africa.
Electronic Waste Management in the Asia Pacific Region
Authors: Ghosh Sadhan Kumar
Published: September 2019

The Asia-Pacific region, also referred to as APAC, describes more than 50 countries in East and South Asia, Southeast Asia and Oceania. In 2013 the total population of APAC stood at 4.3 billion, almost 60% of the world's population. APAC includes the two most populous countries, China and India. Economic growth has seen the region experience a steep growth in both the consumption of electrical and electronic products and in the generation of electronic waste (e-waste). The export of e-waste emerged as an international issue in the early 2000s, following the exposure of crude, unsophisticated e-waste recycling practices in many, particularly developing, countries, including countries in the APAC region. As a complex and relatively recent waste stream, countries worldwide, including countries in APAC, have been introducing specific legislation to enforce sound environmental treatment of e-waste. As yet, only a minority of states have national and regional e-waste legislation in force, effective management requires the active engagement of a diverse set of actors, often spanning national borders. Many APAC countries are now implementing or contemplating restrictions or bans on the importation of e-waste, an action that is likely to have far-ranging consequences for the global movement of e-waste (principally from developed to developing nations) that has hitherto been the mainstay of e-waste management.
Portable paper sensors for the detection of heavy metals based on light transmission-improved quantification of colorimetric assays
Authors: Wu Jing , Li Miaosi , Tang Hua , Su Jielong , He Minghui , Chen Guangxue , Guan Liyun , Tian Junfei
Published: September 2019

A light-transmission based method is used to quantify the colorimetric results on paper sensor with expand linearity range, which improves accuracy and sensitivity for the detection of highly concentrated samples.
HPLC-free in situ18F-fluoromethylation of bioactive molecules by azidation and MTBD scavenging
Authors: Lu Yingqing , Choi Ji Young , Kim Sang Eun , Lee Byung Chul
Published: September 2019

Sequential usage of azide and MTBD, which generates pure [18F]fluoromethyl tosylate and scavenges unreacted desmethyl precursors, provided an efficient HPLC-free strategy for the radio-synthesis of 18F-fluoromethylated compounds.
Transition metal-substituted Keggin polyoxotungstates enabling covalent attachment to proteinase K upon co-crystallization
Authors: Breibeck Joscha , Bijelic Aleksandar , Rompel Annette
Published: September 2019

POM-protein interaction: a series of 3d metal-substituted Keggin polyoxotungstates was co-crystallized with proteinase K, resulting in covalent bonds to aspartate protein side-chains as a desirable feature of these novel crystallization additives.
Secondary phosphine oxides stabilized Au/Pd nanoalloys: metal components-controlled regioselective hydrogenation toward phosphinyl (Z)-[3]dendralenes
Authors: Xia Yun-Tao , Xie Xiao-Yu , Cui Su-Hang , Ji Yi-Gang , Wu Lei
Published: September 2019

A series of gold/palladium nanoalloys stabilized by secondary phosphine oxides have been prepared and applied in selective hydrogenation for the first time.
Synthesis, properties & applications of N-heterocyclic olefins in catalysis
Authors: Naumann Stefan
Published: September 2019

The multiple impacts of N-heterocyclic olefins on the field of catalysis are presented, alongside a concise introduction to the key properties of these polar, electron-rich olefins.
Superstructured metallocorroles for electrochemical CO2reduction
Authors: Sinha Woormileela , Mahammed Atif , Fridman Natalia , Diskin-Posner Yael , Shimon Linda J. W. , Gross Zeev
Published: September 2019

The (nitrosyl)iron complex of the corrole with a proximal tyrosine-like proton relay moiety is a potent catalyst for the electro-reduction of CO2to CO.
Experimental and theoretical study of Pb⋯S and Pb⋯O σ-hole interactions in the crystal structures of Pb(ii) complexes
Authors: Velásquez Juan D. , Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Zangrando Ennio , Gurbanov Atash V. , Zubkov Fedor I. , Zorlu Yunus , Masoudiasl Ardavan , Echeverría Jorge
Published: September 2019

The crystal structures of two novel Pb(ii) hemidirected compounds present considerably strong Pb⋯S σ-hole bonding as the main intermolecular interactions.
Pyridine–acetaldehyde, a molecular balance to explore the n→π*interaction
Authors: Blanco Susana , Macario Alberto , López Juan Carlos
Published: September 2019

Weak n→π*and C–H⋯O interactions determine the structure of pyridine–acetaldehyde adduct. The n→π*distance oscillates with the methyl group internal rotation which acts as a sort of molecular balance to explore the n→π*interaction energy.
Interfacial electron transfer promotes photo-catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol by Au/Ag2O nanoparticles confined in dendritic mesoporous silica nanospheres
Authors: Yang Tai-Qun , Ning Tian-Yu , Peng Bo , Shan Bing-Qian , Zong Yu-Xin , Hao Pan , Yuan En-Hui , Chen Qi-Ming , Zhang Kun
Published: September 2019

Manipulating the electron transfer in composite metals or/and metal oxides on the nanoscale is crucial for the development of improved heterogeneous catalysts.
An integrating photoanode consisting of BiVO4, rGO and LDH for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Sun Lixia , Sun Jianhua , Yang Xiaojun , Bai Shouli , Feng Yongjun , Luo Ruixian , Li Dianqing , Chen Aifan
Published: September 2019

The photoanode of BiVO4/rGO/NiFe-LDH was fabricated by a facile electrodeposition method, and it showed excellent photoelectrochemical properties for solar water splitting, benefitting from the formation of heterojunctions and the decoration of rGO.
BeBe triple bond in Be2X4Y2 clusters (X = Li, Na and Y = Li, Na, K) and a perfect classical BeBe triple bond presented in Be2Na4K2
Authors: Liu Xingman , Zhong Ronglin , Zhang Min , Wu Shuixing , Geng Yun , Su Zhongmin
Published: September 2019

The trans-bent Be2X4Y2 structures are explained through ESP of Be2X4 and a perfect BeBe triple bond is confirmed in D4h-Be2Na4K2.
The synthesis, characterisation and application of iron(iii)–acetate complexes for cyclic carbonate formation and the polymerisation of lactide
Authors: Driscoll Oliver J. , Hafford-Tear Claudia H. , McKeown Paul , Stewart Jack A. , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Mahon Mary F. , Jones Matthew D.
Published: September 2019

Cracking the whip: Simple iron(iii) acetate complexes have been applied to the catalytic cyclic carbonate formation and lactide ROP.
Near sunlight continuous broadband white-light emission by single-phase Zn(ii)-1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate MOFs
Authors: Wang Ce , Yin Zheng , Ma Wei-Min , Li Xi-Yao , Cao Li-Hui , Cheng Yu , Yu Xin-Yu , Ma Yang-Min
Published: September 2019

A white light MOF was constructed from low-cost 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate and nontoxic Zinc(ii) ions, which exhibited near sunlight continuous white-light emission under a wide radiation range of 300 to 390 nm and was used for white-light emitting diodes.
[4 + 4]-cycloaddition of isoprene for the production of high-performance bio-based jet fuel
Authors: Rosenkoetter Kyle E. , Kennedy C. Rose , Chirik Paul J. , Harvey Benjamin G.
Published: September 2019

Bio-based isoprene is converted to a high performance jet fuel blendstock by Fe-catalyzed [4 + 4] cycloaddition and hydrogenation.
Analytical performance of the Conical torch in axially viewed inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy
Authors: Guo Xiaoman , Alavi Sina , Mostaghimi Javad
Published: September 2019

The conical torch, with less power and gas consumption, offers better analytical performance compared with the Fassel torch for axially viewed ICP-OES.
Aromatic polymers made by reductive polydehalogenation of oligocyclic monomers as conjugated polymers of intrinsic microporosity (C-PIMs)
Authors: Klein Patrick , Jötten Hauke J. , Aitchison Catherine M. , Clowes Rob , Preis Eduard , Cooper Andrew I. , Sprick Reiner Sebastian , Scherf Ullrich
Published: September 2019

Incorporation of tetrabenzohepta- or -pentafulvalene connectors into soluble, aromatic polymers results in significantly different optical spectra and intrinsic microporosity.
Thiol–yne chemistry for 3D printing: exploiting an off-stoichiometric route for selective functionalization of 3D objects
Authors: Roppolo Ignazio , Frascella Francesca , Gastaldi Matteo , Castellino Micaela , Ciubini Betty , Barolo Claudia , Scaltrito Luciano , Nicosia Carmelo , Zanetti Marco , Chiappone Annalisa
Published: September 2019

An alkyne monomer, bis(propargyl) fumarate, is synthesized and mixed to a thiol monomer to produce DLP-3D printable formulations. Using off-stoichiometric formulations it is possible to print functionalizable objects.
Chondroitin: a natural biomarker with immense biomedical applications
Authors: Pal Dilipkumar , Saha Supriyo
Published: September 2019

Naturally extracted glycosaminoglycan chondroitin sulphate is the reactive product of N-acetylgalactosamine and d-glucuronic acid.
Converse transitions between the micelles and the vesicles of pyrrolidone-based AIE amphiphilic copolymers in polar and apolar solvents
Authors: He Xiaolong , Wang Beibei , Li Xuefeng , Dong Jinfeng
Published: September 2019

A series of AIE-active amphiphilic copolymers, PNMPx-b-P(LMAy-co-TPEz), were developed as bioimaging probes. Converse transitions from spherical micelles to vesiclesviawormlike micelles of them in water andn-dodecane were happened, respectively.
Combined high degree of carboxylation and electronic conduction in graphene acid sets new limits for metal free catalysis in alcohol oxidation
Authors: Blanco Matías , Mosconi Dario , Otyepka Michal , Medveď Miroslav , Bakandritsos Aristides , Agnoli Stefano , Granozzi Gaetano
Published: September 2019

GO's weaknesses as metal-free catalyst are overcome by graphene acid (GA), who performs better than metals in alcohol oxidations. Mechanistic insights and DFT calculations unravel key aspects on the catalytic cycle for the control of the selectivity.
Valency engineering of monomeric enzymes for self-assembling biocatalytic hydrogels
Authors: Bitterwolf Patrick , Gallus Sabrina , Peschke Theo , Mittmann Esther , Oelschlaeger Claude , Willenbacher Norbert , Rabe Kersten S. , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: September 2019

All-enzyme hydrogels are efficient reagents for continuous flow biocatalysis.
Photoinduced repetitive separation of a supramolecular assembly composed of an amphiphilic diarylethene mixture
Authors: Sakakibara Seiya , Yotsuji Hajime , Higashiguchi Kenji , Matsuda Kenji
Published: September 2019

Supramolecular assembly composed of a two-component mixture of amphiphilic diarylethenes showed separation into a blue sphere and a red-purple sparse structure by local LCST transition in the region of high fraction of the closed-ring isomer.
Erodible, granular beds are fragile
Authors: Berzi Diego , Jenkins James T. , Richard Patrick
Published: September 2019

The compressible, collisional flow that confines the erodible, granular bed is not strong enough to insure the stability of the contact network in the bed, resulting in a bulk stiffness that is three orders of magnitude less than in shear jamming.
Vanadium–cobalt oxyhydroxide shows ultralow overpotential for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Cui Yan , Xue Yuan , Zhang Rui , Zhang Jian , Li Xing'ao , Zhu Xinbao
Published: September 2019

In the cation modulated V–Co based oxyhydroxide electrocatalyst, 190 mV overpotential at 10 mA cm−2 is the best value reported for Co or V (oxy)hydroxides based OER catalysts.
One-step solution deposition of CsPbBr3based on precursor engineering for efficient all-inorganic perovskite solar cells
Authors: Huang Dewei , Xie Pengfei , Pan Zhenxiao , Rao Huashang , Zhong Xinhua
Published: September 2019

A novel strategy of adopting cesium acetate and methylammonium acetate increases the concentration of CsPbBr3precursor solution assisting one-step deposition.
Liquid biopsy in combination with solid-state electrochemical sensors and nucleic acid amplification
Authors: Tabata Miyuki , Miyahara Yuji
Published: September 2019

Solid-state electrochemical sensors are developing as a new platform for liquid biopsy, combining detection and analysis of nucleic acids with isothermal nucleic acid amplification reactions.
Fluorescent chemodosimeters for fluoride ionsviasilicon-fluorine chemistry: 20 years of progress
Authors: Chen Pengpeng , Bai Wei , Bao Yinyin
Published: September 2019

Critical commentary on and a brief summary of representative F−fluorescent probes, imaging agents and nanosensors based on Si–F chemistry are provided, followed by pointing out the limitations of current systems and possible future directions.
Molecular, chemical, and structural characterization of prostaglandin A2 as a novel agonist for Nur77
Authors: Lakshmi Sowmya P. , Reddy Aravind T. , Banno Asoka , Reddy Raju C.
Published: September 2019

Nur77 is a transcription factor belonging to the NR4A subfamily of nuclear hormone receptors. Upon induction, Nur77 modulates the expression of its target genes and controls a variety of biological and pathophysiological processes. Prior research that revealed a structurally atypical ligand-binding domain (LBD) and failed to locate an endogenous ligand had led to a classification of Nur77 as an orphan receptor. However, several more recent studies indicate that small synthetic molecules and unsaturated fatty acids can bind to Nur77. Discovery of additional endogenous ligands will facilitate our understanding of the receptor's functions and regulatory mechanisms. Our data have identified prostaglandin A2 (PGA2), a cyclopentenone prostaglandin (PG), as such a ligand. Cyclopentenone PGs exert their biological effects primarily by forming protein adducts via the characteristic electrophilic β-carbon(s) located in their cyclopentenone rings. Our data show that PGA2 induces Nur77 transcriptional activity by forming a covalent adduct between its endocyclic β-carbon, C9, and Cys566 in the receptor's LBD. The importance of this endocyclic β-carbon was substantiated by the failure of PGs without such electrophilic properties to react with Nur77. Calculated chemical properties and data from reactive molecular dynamic simulations, intrinsic reaction co-ordinate modeling, and covalent molecular docking also corroborate the selectivity of PGA2's C9 β-carbon towards Nur77's Cys. In summary, our molecular, chemical, and structural characterization of the PGA2–Nur77 interaction provides the first evidence that PGA2 is an endogenous Nur77 agonist.
Passive conditioning of a large beverage ware-house by activating the buffer effect of the ground
Authors: Gratzl Markus , Leeb Markus , Reiter Thomas , Schranzhofer Hermann
Published: September 2019

A new production facility for a beverage manufacturer has to provide a storage volume for around 5 million bottles as a refrigerated warehouse. The maximum temperatures were not allowed to exceed 14 °C due to the quality requirements in the production process. To achieve highest energy efficiency and to avoid year-round heating and cooling, the warehouse is passively conditioned: by explicitly coupling it with adjacent soil, its buffering effect was activated via uninsulated wall and floor components in contact with the ground. The warehouse stock was also integrated into the concept as thermal mass. Furthermore, the remaining building envelope was optimized to reduce heat gains and losses to external air to a minimum.
The effect of air velocity on moisture buffering
Authors: Cascione Valeria , Cavone Eugenio , Maskell Daniel , Shea Andy , Walker Pete
Published: September 2019

Hygoscopic finishing materials improve the indoor hygrothermal comfort and air quality, as they reduce the extremes of variation in relative humidity. This property, known as moisture buffering, is related to the capacity of hygroscopic materials to adsorb and desorb moisture from the air. Air velocity plays an important role on the sorption performances of materials: increasing the air speed leads to increased moisture buffering capacity. In order to obtain comparable results, several moisture buffering protocols require the air speed to be constant and around 0.1 m/s during tests. However, those tests are usually performed in climatic chambers, where air speed cannot be controlled and the flow may not be homogenous. The aim of this study is to demonstrate, that positioning test specimens in different locations within the same chamber gives different moisture buffering value results, due to the non-homogenous air speed distribution. For this reason, air velocity has been monitored, measuring the differential pressure and air speed in different locations in a climatic chamber. Moisture buffering tests have been performed in six locations of the chamber and a correlation between the two analyses has been evaluated. The significance of this paper is to understand the relationship between air speed and moisture buffering performances, in order to determine an air velocity correction factor, which enables the moisture buffering value to be evaluated when existing protocols cannot be adhered.
Empirical study on the sound insulation of wooden lightweight frame floors
Authors: Nowotny Łukasz , Nurzyński Jacek
Published: September 2019

Lightweight frame structures become increasingly popular in housing. They are used in single-, as well as multifamily, residential buildings. Such a tendency is in the line with sustainable development and the need for energy conservation. Lightweight frame partitions provide a certain comfort of life and remain environmentally friendly. However, they are tricky in terms of acoustics. Different factors and technical details influence their sound insulation. The paper presents the analysis of the acoustical effects resulting from different layers used on lightweight frame floors. Airborne, as well as impact sound insulation, have been considered, based on the results of laboratory measurements according to ISO 10140 standard.
A round robin campaign on the hygric properties of porous building materials
Authors: Feng Chi , Guimarães Ana Sofia , Ramos Nuno , Sun Lixin , Gawin Dariusz , Konca Piotr , Zhao Jianhua , Grunewald John , Kielsgaard Hansen Kurt , Hall Christopher , Fredriksson Maria , Pavlík Zbyšek , Janssen Hans
Published: September 2019

The reliable determination of the hygric properties of porous building materials is important. In earlier round robin campaigns large discrepancies of measured hygric properties were found among different labs. Later studies indicated that differences in lab conditions and more importantly, personnel’s operation procedures and data processing methods, might have the greatest impact. To gain further insight, a new round robin campaign has been launched by KU Leuven (Belgium), to which another eight institutes contributed. A relatively stable and homogeneous ceramic brick is tested, and 3 standard tests are performed: the vacuum saturation test, the capillary absorption test and the cup test. During the campaign, two rounds of measurements are performed. In the 1st round, tests are performed according to participants’ respective experimental protocols. Next, a strict and detailed common protocol is prescribed. This paper reports on the results obtained in the 1st round of measurements. Results show that not much progress has been made since the EC HAMSTAD project: the vacuum saturation test leads to the most consistent results, while the cup test produces the largest discrepancies, most probably originating from sample sealing and humidity control.
Comparative analysis of simulation of urban radiation field
Authors: Liu Dalong , Jia Xiaowei , Wang Wenqin
Published: September 2019

In order to compare the differences between various outdoor environmental simulation software in the urban radiation field, ENVI-met, RayMan and SOLWEIG were selected as the research objects. The multiple types of urban radiation intensities that can be obtained by each software are compared, and the calculation method of types of these radiations was analyzed. Effects of underlying surface on the radiation field were simulated separately. The differences in radiation field performance simulations of three softwares were compared from several aspects such as short wave, direct radiation and reflected radiation. It is found that Rayman has the high sensitivity and fast simulation speed, but the output radiation parameters are less; ENVI-met can calculate the most radiation parameters and calculate the long-short wave radiation heat transfer process between building surfaces; the SOLWEIG can be used for simulation in large outdoor space, and has more calculated radiation parameters, but has large error. All three softwares can calculate the effect of space enclosure on direct and scattered radiation.
Efficiency of the chimney effect controlling radon levels indoor
Authors: Haker Høegh Britt , Valdbjørn Rasmussen Torben
Published: September 2019

According to the WHO the radioactive gas radon must be controlled indoors. E.g. by naturally driven suction systems based on thermal buoyancy, also denoted the chimney effect, which exploits the difference of indoor- and outdoor temperature to lower radon levels indoor. This paper presents four case studies showing that the efficiency of such systems to control radon level indoors varies, as the outdoor temperature varies throughout the year. The chimney effect was the driving force in the four single-family houses used as case studies. In two cases it was used to increase the indoor air change rate to dilute the radon concentration indoor, in one case it was used to drive a suction system under the ground slab to prevent radon from infiltrating through the ground slab, and in one case both techniques were used in combination. Measurements showed a correlation between a low radon level indoors and an increased difference between the indoor- and outdoor temperature, with the highest temperature indoor. Likely, the temperature difference can provide the needed suction in such systems. Without this driving force – out of the heating season – an increase of the indoor radon level was seen to occur. The needed suction to lower the radon level indoor did not occur in all cases. However, the efficiency of the system was seen to vary throughout the year, and was limited in periods with little difference between the indoor- and the outdoor temperature. Such needs to be taken into account, when the effect of naturally driven suction systems to reduce the radon level indoor are evaluated.
The influence of green walls on interior climate conditions and human health
Authors: Peterková Jitka , Michalčíková Magdaléna , Novák Vítězslav , Slávik Richard , Zach Jiří , Korjenic Azra , Hodná Jana , Raich Benjamin
Published: September 2019

In recent years, many researchers have addressed the issue of interior climate and how it affects human health. Investigations performed at schools and office buildings have found that CO2 concentrations often exceed the limit value of 1500 ppm given in Decree No. 20/2012 Coll., on technical requirements for buildings. In addition, interior space often exhibits very low relative humidity. This results in poor conditions that are detrimental to human health and not conducive to studying and work. One means of improving the interior microclimate is implementing green walls. These walls can help generate a much better climate and greatly enhance the mental well-being of the inhabitants. In addition, they greatly improve dust levels and acoustics in the room. The research compared the interior conditions in two classrooms at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Brno University of Technology. One had a green wall installed while the other was in its original configuration. CO2 concentration, temperature, and relative humidity were measured. A survey was conducted to assess the influence of the green wall on students and teachers (mental well-being, efficiency, productivity, creativity, etc.). Results obtained thus far show that the room with the green wall provides far better interior conditions, mainly in terms of lower CO2 concentration and higher relative humidity, improving students’ and teachers’ mood and health (as confirmed by the survey as well).
Experimental characterization of the thermal performance of a school building prototype before and after refurbishment
Authors: Cavaleiro Barbosa Francisca , Peixoto de Freitas Vasco , Almeida Manuela
Published: September 2019

Portuguese school buildings are generally characterized by an in service thermal discomfort. The refurbishments that the schools have recently undergone, have not fully considered the climatic diversity and the economic reality of the country and, for that reason, there are still some discomfort in these schools. This work studies the Portuguese Brandão schools model (from the 70’s), which comprises about 100 non-refurbished basic schools. A prototype classroom was prepared in a Brandão school, in Porto. The in situ experimental campaign consisted in temperature, relative humidity, CO2 concentration and energy consumption measurements. With this prototype, some studies were carried out regarding the thermal behavior before and after a refurbishment process, by experimental monitoring. The prototype construction has included the improvement of the envelope (roof insulation and solar protection) and of the technical systems (ventilation and heating). The main goal was the assessment of the discomfort in this prototype before and after the refurbishment in free-running conditions or with some intermittent heating strategies. Discomfort indexes have been developed for the assessment of the discomfort. This work presents the prototype thermal performance in pre-existing in service conditions and the improvement in the thermal behavior of the environment after the refurbishment.
A brief compendium of water entry results derived from laboratory tests of various types of wall assemblies
Authors: Lacasse Michael A. , Van Den Bossche Nathan , Van Linden Stephanie , Moore Travis V.
Published: September 2019

There is an increase in the use of hygrothermal models to complete the performance evaluation of walls assemblies, either in respect to design of new assembles or the retrofit of existing wall assemblies. To this end there are guides available in which is provided information on moisture loads to wall assemblies. This includes, for example, Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analysis in Buildings given in ASHRAE 160, Assessment of moisture transfer by numerical simulation provided in EN 15026, and NRC’s “Guidelines for Design for Durability of the Building Envelope”. The designer of a new assembly or evaluator of an existing wall is tasked with having to determine what moisture loads to apply to the wall and where to apply this load within the assembly. Typically there is little or no information that is readily available regarding moisture loads to walls and thus the suggested hourly moisture load, as given in ASHRAE 160, is 1% by weight of the total driving rain load to the wall (i.e. kg/m2-hr). In this paper, a brief compendium of water entry test results derived from laboratory tests of various types of wall assemblies is provided from which estimates of moisture loads to different types of wall can be developed. Water entry test results are given of wood frame walls typically used in housing, but also metal-glass curtain walls and other commercial wall assemblies, where possible, in terms of driving loads to the wall.
Determination of effective specific heat capacity of interior plaster containing phase change materials
Authors: Kočí Václav , Maděra Jiří , Černý Robert
Published: September 2019

A precise technique for determination of effective specific heat capacity of building materials is presented within this paper. The applicability of the technique is demonstrated on a PCM-enhanced plaster, being characterized by a phase change between 15 and 30 °C. The effective specific heat capacity is determined by means of inverse analysis of calorimetric data using computational model of the device. The identified effective specific heat capacity values reached up to 1890 J·kg-1·K-1 when cooled and 1580 J·kg-1·K-1 when heated. Using this quantity in simulation of thermal performance, the PCM-enhanced plaster showed to have a promising potential to be used in buildings’ interiors as a thermal regulator to stabilize inner environment as it contributed to a thermal oscillation decrease by up to 2.5 °C
Behavior of capacitive humidity sensors in monitoring the drying of concrete walls
Authors: Raunima Tuomas , Tuominen Eero , Vinha Juha
Published: September 2019

This research examines the behavior of capacitive humidity sensors in monitoring the drying of concrete walls in continuous measurements in laboratory conditions. Tests are carried out using continuous measuring of moisture with different capacitive sensors in concrete structures varied with three different types of thermal insulation materials. Sensors are sealed in plastic tubes that were preinstalled into the casting molds. Three borehole measurements are carried out as reference during the research. Results show differences in performance between the examined humidity sensors from two different manufacturers. The main difference is related to stability as sensors from the other manufacturer prove to be more prone to error. The study affirms that measuring humidity in concrete is challenging even when using high-quality humidity sensors.
Monitoring the course of early-age reactions in alkali activated aluminosilicates
Authors: Jerman Miloš , Tydlitát Vratislav , Černý Robert
Published: September 2019

In this paper the reaction heat development of alkali activated aluminosilicates is studied by an isothermal heat flow calorimeter. The highest reaction activity is observed during two hours after mixing. The hydration heat power at early time is influenced mainly by the composition of tested mixtures involving ceramic dust as precursor and different amounts of sodium hydroxide and water glass as activators and by temperature.
Growth effectivity of molds in contact with methylxanthines
Authors: Kobetičová Klára , Kočí Václav , Petříková Michaela , Šimůnková Kristýna , Černý Robert
Published: September 2019

Molds on buildings can cause health- and aesthetic problems. Looking for suitable cheap and non-toxic substances to eliminate them is therefore an actual task. In the present study, effect of three selected methylxanthines (1,3,7-trimethylpurine-2,6-dione, 3,7-dihydro-3,7-dimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione and 1,3-dimethylxanthine) on growth of non-specific species of molds occurring on building materials were tested on agar medium under laboratory conditions. The chemical substances were dissolved in distilled water and applied into agar. Solid agar has been exposed to air molds for 24 hours. Agar plates were then covered with lids and placed for 5 days in a laboratory thermostat at stable test conditions (dark place, 25 °C). After that, the mycelium was observed. The results showed that 3,7-dihydro-3,7-dimethyl-1H-purine-2,6-dione and 1,3- dimethylxanthine were not effective against the molds growth. On the other hand, 1,3,7-trimethylpurine-2,6-dione was able to eliminate mold growth on agar medium at a concentration of 1 g∙l-1or higher.
Thermal and moisture adsorption/desorption properties for a selection of vegetal insulation materials
Authors: Gendelis Staņislavs , Jakovičs Andris , Engelhardt Max
Published: September 2019

Natural, or ‘green’ insulation materials, have become more popular for the ‘ecologisation’ of construction activities. The ecological aspects for such materials are being widely analysed, but experimental data about their physical properties when installed in building constructions remains lacking. In this study, pressed samples of three locally wild grown agricultural materials – rye, reed, and hemp – are analysed. Thermal conductivity measurements were carried out using the hot plate device. Comparison with widely used mineral insulation materials shows that thermal conductivity for simple pressed materials are roughly three times higher, and are comparable to plywood and cross-laminated timber insulation properties. Additional experiments regarding such materials include measurements of hygroscopic sorption properties (adsorption/desorption), determined using the dynamic gravimetric method at different temperatures and a wide, relative humidity range. The results obtained show that the difference in all studied materials appeared only at high humidity values; the rye straw and reed spikelets adsorbed more water than other materials, which is important for potential indoor air humidity assessment.
Heat transport solutions in rectangular shields using harmonic polynomials.
Authors: Owczarek Mariusz , Owczarek Stefan
Published: September 2019

The search for the temperature field in a two-dimensional problem is common in building physics and heat exchange in general. Both numerical and analytical methods can be used to obtain a solution. Here a method of initial functions, the basics of which were given by W.Z. Vlasov i A.Y. Lur’e were adopted. Originally MIF was used for analysis of the loads of a flat elastic medium. Since then it was used for solving concrete beams, plates and composite materials problems. Polynomial half-reverse solutions are used in the theory of a continuous medium. Here solutions were obtained by direct method. As a result, polynomial forms of the considered temperature field were obtained. The Cartesian coordinate system and rectangular shape of the plate were assumed. The governing are the Fourier equation in steady state . Boundary conditions in the form of temperature (τ(x),t(y)) or/and flux (p(x), q(y)) can be provided. The solution T(x, y) were assumed in the form of an infinite power series developed in relation to the variable y with coefficients Cn depending on x. The assumed solution were substituted into Fourier equation and after expanding into Taylor series the boundary condition for y = 0 and y=h were taken into account. Form this condition a coefficients Cn can be calculated and therefore a closed solution for temperature field in plate.