bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Latency-Optimal Virtual Network Functions Resource Allocation for 5G Backhaul Transport Network Slicing
Authors: Li Wenjing , Zi Yueqi , Feng Lei , Zhou Fanqing , Yu Peng , Qiu Xuesong
Published: February 2019

The concept of network slicing (NS) has been proposed for flexible resource provisioning where a physical resource is partitioned into logically independent networks on demand. The NS resource allocation implies the definition of a feasible path in the infrastructure network with adequate resource availability. However, due to complex structural characteristics of the backhaul transport network, a number of issues arise when fast deploying the end-to-end (E2E) slices onto network infrastructures. In this paper, a pair-decision resource allocation model is firstly formulated to construct the mapping relationship between logical networks and substrate networks in a coordinated way. In order to improve extreme quality of service (QoS) and user experiment, latency-optimal virtual resource allocation problem is defined, subject to the backhaul capacity and bandwidth constraints. The problem is formulated as an integer linear programming (ILP) and solved with the branch-and-bound scheme, whose resolution yields an optimal virtual network function (VNF) placement and traffic routing policy. Numerical results reveal that the proposed scheme can enable the transport network latency optimization with a reduction of up to 30% and 41.6% compared to the Network Slice Design Problem (NSDP) and Random Fit Placement Algorithm (RFPA) schemes respectively. In the meanwhile, the network load balance and serviceability have been improved efficiently with better resource utilization as well.
Surface-Degradable Drug-Eluting Stent with Anticoagulation, Antiproliferation, and Endothelialization Functions
Authors: Hou Ruixia , Wu Leigang , Wang Jin , Yang Zhilu , Tu Qiufen , Zhang Xingcai , Huang Nan
Published: February 2019

Drug-eluting stents (DES) have been widely applied for saving the life of patients with coronary artery diseases (CADs). However, conventional polymers such as polylactic acid (PLA) and poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), which are widely applied for drug-eluting stents studies, have serious bulk erosion problems, like high local acidity and poor mechanical properties. Instead, we chose surface erosion polymer poly (1, 3-trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) as a drug carrier in this study. Here, we fabricated and characterized a novel durable-polymer drug-eluting 316 L stainless steel (SS) stent, in which the inner surface was coated with a Ti–O film using the magnetron sputtering method to promote the growth of endothelial cells (ECs). On the outer layer of the stent, first, a Ti–O film was deposited and, then, on top of it a rapamycin-loaded PTMC coat was deposited using the ultrasonic atomization spray method. This dual coating inhibited the migration and expansion of smooth muscle cells (SMCs). The drug coating also inhibited the adhesion/activation of platelets. In tests on dogs, it was found the novel stent promoted re-endothelialization and reduced restenosis, in contrast to the plain SS stent. Thus, the novel stent may have promise for use in treating patients with CAD.
Retrofitting of Imperfect Halved Dovetail Carpentry Joints for Increased Seismic Resistance
Authors: Drdácký Miloš , Urushadze Shota
Published: February 2019

This paper presents possibilities for anti-seismic improvement of traditional timber carpentry joints. It is known that the structural response of historical roof frameworks is highly dependent on the behavior of their joints, particularly, their capacity for rotation and energy dissipation. Any strengthening, or retrofitting, approach must take into account conservation requirements, usually expressed as conditions involving minimal intervention. Several retrofitting methods were tested on replicas of historical halved joints within various national and international research projects. The joints were produced with traditional hand tools, and made using aged material taken from a demolished building. The paper presents two approaches, each utilizing different retrofitting technologies that avoid completely dismantling the joint and consequently conserve frame integrity. The energy dissipation capacity is increased by inserting mild steel nails around a wooden pin, and connecting the two parts of the halved joint. In the second case, two thin plates made of a material with a high friction coefficient are inserted into the joint and fastened to the wooden elements. This is done by removing the wooden connecting pin and slightly opening a slot for the plates between the halved parts. In addition, the paper presents an application for disc brake plates, as well as thin plates made of oak.
Loss of MYBBP1A Induces Cancer Stem Cell Activity in Renal Cancer
Authors: Felipe-Abrio Blanca , Verdugo-Sivianes Eva Maria , Sáez Carmen , Carnero Amancio
Published: February 2019

Tumors are cellular ecosystems where different populations and subpopulations of cells coexist. Among these cells, cancer stem cells (CSCs) are considered to be the origin of the tumor mass, being involved in metastasis and in the resistance to conventional therapies. Furthermore, tumor cells have an enormous plasticity and a phenomenon of de-differentiation of mature tumor cells to CSCs may occur. Therefore, it is essential to identify genetic alterations that cause the de-differentiation of mature tumor cells to CSCs for the future design of therapeutic strategies. In this study, we characterized the role of MYBBP1A by experiments in cell lines, xenografts and human tumor samples. We have found that MYBBP1A downregulation increases c-MYB (Avian myeloblastosis viral oncogene homolog) activity, leading to a rise in the stem-like cell population. We identified that the downregulation of MYBBP1A increases tumorigenic properties, in vitro and in vivo, in renal carcinoma cell lines that express high levels of c-MYB exclusively. Moreover, in a cohort of renal tumors, MYBBP1A is downregulated or lost in a significant percentage of tumors correlating with poor patient prognosis and a metastatic tendency. Our data support the role of MYBBP1A as a tumor suppressor by repressing c-MYB, acting as an important regulator of the plasticity of tumor cells.
Clinical Ecology—Transforming 21st-Century Medicine with Planetary Health in Mind
Authors: Nelson David H. , Prescott Susan L. , Logan Alan C. , Bland Jeffrey S.
Published: February 2019

Four decades ago, several health movements were sprouting in isolation. In 1980, the environmental group Friends of the Earth expanded the World Health Organization definition of health, reminding citizenry that, “health is a state of complete physical, mental, social and ecological well-being and not merely the absence of disease—personal health involves planetary health”. At the same time, a small group of medical clinicians were voicing the concept of “clinical ecology”—that is, a perspective that sees illness, especially chronic illness, as a response to the total lived experience and the surroundings in which “exposures” accumulate. In parallel, other groups advanced the concept of holistic medicine. In 1977, the progressive physician-scientist Jonas Salk stated that “we are entering into a new Epoch in which holistic medicine will be the dominant model”. However, only recently have the primary messages of these mostly isolated movements merged into a unified interdisciplinary discourse. The grand, interconnected challenges of our time—an epidemic of non-communicable diseases, global socioeconomic inequalities, biodiversity losses, climate change, disconnect from the natural environment—demands that all of medicine be viewed from an ecological perspective. Aided by advances in ‘omics’ technology, it is increasingly clear that each person maintains complex, biologically-relevant microbial ecosystems, and those ecosystems are, in turn, a product of the lived experiences within larger social, political, and economic ecosystems. Recognizing that 21st-century medicine is, in fact, clinical ecology can help clear an additional path as we attempt to exit the Anthropocene.
Identification of Unentangled–Entangled Border in the Luttinger Liquid Phase
Authors: Nemati Somayyeh , Khastehdel Fumani Fatemeh , Mahdavifar Saeed
Published: February 2019

Quantum discord and entanglement are both criteria for distinguishing quantum correlations in a quantum system. We studied the effect of the transverse magnetic field on the quantum discord of the one-dimensional spin-1/2 XX model. This study focused on the pair of spins at different distances. We show that quantum discord is finite for all studied spin pairs in the Luttinger liquid phase. In addition, relying on our calculations, we show that the derivatives of quantum discord can be used to identify the border between entangled and separable regions in the Luttinger liquid phase.
LS-Solar-PV System Impact on Line Protection
Authors: Alsafasfeh Qais , Saraereh Omar A. , Khan Imran , Kim Sunghwan
Published: February 2019

Large-scale photovoltaic power station access to the grid will profoundly change the fault current characteristics of the power station’s outgoing lines. This change results in adaptive problems in traditional protection phase selection components, which may cause incorrect actions in reclosing, protection ranging, and distance protection. Based on the fault current characteristics of the large-scale photovoltaic power station transmission line, this paper analyzes the adaptability of the phase current difference mutation and the sequence component phase selection component in protecting the Photovoltaic (PV) power plant side of the transmission line. Based on the fault current analytical formula, the phase relationship between the phase current difference and the current sequence component under different control targets, such as suppressing negative sequence current, suppressing the active power fluctuation, and suppressing the reactive power fluctuation, is derived. The operational performances of the phase–phase current difference of the abrupt phase selection component and the sequence component phase selection component of the power station side are degraded, which may cause incorrect operation of the phase selection component. Based on the actual engineering parameters of a PV power plant, a simulation model was built in Power System Computer Aided Design (PSCAD) to verify the correctness of the theoretical analysis.
Analysis on Thermal Performance of Ground Heat Exchanger According to Design Type Based on Thermal Response Test
Authors: Bae Sang , Nam Yujin , Choi Jong , Lee Kwang , Choi Jae
Published: February 2019

A ground source heat pump (GSHP) system has higher performance than air source heat pump system due to the use of more efficient ground heat source. However, the GSHP system performance depends on ground thermal properties and groundwater conditions. There are many studies on the improvement of GSHP system by developing ground heat exchanger (GHX) and heat exchange method. Several studies have suggested methods to improve heat exchange rate for the development of GHX. However, few real-scale experimental studies have quantitatively analyzed their performance using the same ground conditions. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the thermal performance of various pipe types of GHX by the thermal response test (TRT) under the same field and test conditions. Four kinds of GHX (HDPE type, HDPE-nano type, spiral fin type, and coaxial type) were constructed in the same site. Inlet and outlet temperatures of GHXs and effective thermal conductivity were measured through the TRT. In addition, the borehole thermal resistance was calculated to comparatively analyze the correlation of the heat exchange performance with each GHX. Result of the TRT revealed that averages effective thermal conductivities of HDPE type, HDPE-nano, spiral fin type, and coaxial type GHX were 2.25 W/m·K, 2.34 W/m·K, 2.55 W/m·K, and 2.16 W/m·K, respectively. In the result, it was found that the average borehole thermal resistance can be an important factor in TRT, but the effect of increased thermal conductivity of pipe material itself was not significant.
Seasonal Variations and Thinning Effects on Soil Phosphorus Fractions in Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. Plantations
Authors: Tian Huixia , Cheng Xiaoqin , Han Hairong , Jing Hongyuan , Liu Xujun , Li Zuzheng
Published: February 2019

Thinning is a common management practice in forest ecosystems. However, understanding whether thinning treatment will change the availability of phosphorus (P) in soils, and the effect of thinning on the seasonal dynamics of soil P fractions, are still limited. The objective of the present study was to assess seasonal variations in soil P fractions under different forest thinning management strategies in a Larch (Larix spp.) plantation in northern China. To accomplish this, we examined soil P fractions, soil physical–chemical properties, and litter biomass under control (CK), light (LT), moderate (MT) and high thinning (HT) treatments. Data were collected during the growing season of 2017. We found that most P fractions varied seasonally at different soil depths, with the highest values occurring in the summer and autumn. When compared to CK, MT enhanced the inorganic P (Pi) concentration extracted by resin strip (R-Pi). Labile organic P (Labile Po), moderately labile P and total P (TP) also increased in both MT and HT treatments irrespective of season. In contrast, less-labile Pi and Po fractions were lower in LT than in CK, especially when examining deeper soil layers. Our results suggest that LT leads to a strong ability to utilize Po and less-labile Pi. Moreover, the effect of thinning did not tend to increase with thinning intensity, P availability was maximized at the MT. Ultimately, we show that MT can improve soil P bioavailability and is recommended in Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. plantations of North China. Our results emphasize that the effect of thinning management on soil microenvironment is an important basis for evaluating soil nutrients such as soil P bioavailability.
Glaciochemistry of Cave Ice: Paradana and Snežna Caves, Slovenia
Authors: Carey Anne E. , Zorn Matija , Tičar Jure , Lipar Matej , Komac Blaž , Welch Susan A. , Smith Devin F. , Lyons William Berry
Published: February 2019

Cave ice samples collected within karstic terrain have major ion and nutrient concentrations showing that the ice originates from local precipitation modified by the addition of Ca2+ and HCO3− from the dissolution of the local bedrock. Isotopic profiles of Paradana Cave ice are similar to those described in other ice caves in central and eastern Europe, where the profiles are developed through the freezing of cave pool or “lake” waters from the top downward during the onset of the cold portion of the year. Stable isotope data suggest future studies may yield a long-term paleo-environmental record for this location.
Sarcopenia Is Associated with Postoperative Outcome in Patients with Crohn’s Disease Undergoing Bowel Resection
Authors: Carvalho Diogo , Viana Charlene , Marques Isabel , Costa Catarina , Martins Sandra F.
Published: February 2019

Sarcopenia is as an important prognostic factor in inflammatory bowel disease. In patients with Crohn’s disease (CD), sarcopenia has impact on morbidity after surgical resection. Aim: Evaluate sarcopenia impact on prognosis of patients with CD and assess CD sarcopenia prevalence. An retrospective study of 58 CD patients diagnosed histologically and imagiologically at the Hospital de Braga between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2017. In order to obtain the Skeletal Muscle Index (SMI), it was calculated the muscle area at L3 level, from computed tomography. The t-test was used for independent samples, Mann-Whitney test, chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test for comparison between groups with and without sarcopenia. Sarcopenia prevalence was 41.4% (24 patients). Patients with sarcopenia presented a muscle area with a mean value of 119.88 cm2 (±28.10), significantly lower than that of the group of patients without sarcopenia (t(56) = 2.191, p = 0.033, d = 0.60), and values of SMI with median 42.86 cm2/m2, significantly lower than patients without sarcopenia (t(56) = 2.815, p = 0.007, d = 0.08). Regarding postoperative complications, significant differences were observed between the two groups (p = 0.000). In this study, sarcopenia was significantly associated with postoperative morbidity, as reported in the literature.
Participation in Organized Sports and Self-Organized Physical Activity: Associations with Developmental Factors
Authors: Wiium Nora , Säfvenbom Reidar
Published: February 2019

Engagement in organized sports is associated with developmental factors, such as, healthy growth, cognitive abilities, psychological well-being and lower substance use. Research also suggest that the spontaneous free play that characterises self-organized physical activity (PA) provides young people with opportunities to learn social skills, such as self-regulation and conflict-resolution skills. We assessed associations between participation in the two activity types and several demographics along with developmental factors (e.g., body mass index (BMI)). Data was from a representative sample of 2060 students attending 38 schools in Norway (mean age (Mage) = 15.29, standard deviation (SD) = 1.51; 52% females). Results indicated that while engagement in organized sports was more related to developmental factors, relative to self-organized PA, engaging concurrently in both activities for at least an hour a week was more developmentally beneficial than engaging only in one for the same amount of time. Thus, PA programmes for students will enhance their effectiveness if they focus on structured activities but also self-organized activities where students can coordinate themselves.
IgE Downregulates PTEN through MicroRNA-21-5p and Stimulates Airway Smooth Muscle Cell Remodeling
Authors: Fang Lei , Wang Xinggang , Sun Qingzhu , Papakonstantinou Eleni , S’ng Chongteck , Tamm Michael , Stolz Daiana , Roth Michael
Published: February 2019

The patho-mechanism leading to airway wall remodeling in allergic asthma is not well understood and remodeling is resistant to therapies. This study assessed the effect of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the absence of allergens on human primary airway smooth muscle cell (ASMC) remodeling in vitro. ASMCs were obtained from five allergic asthma patients and five controls. Proliferation was determined by direct cell counts, mitochondrial activity by expression of cytochrome c, protein expression by immunoblotting and immuno-fluorescence, cell migration by microscopy imaging, and collagen deposition by cell based ELISA and RNA expression by real time PCR. Non-immune IgE activated two signaling pathways: (i) signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3)→miR-21-5p→downregulating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression, and (ii) phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3K)→protein kinase B (Akt)→mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)→ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (p70s6k)→peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-α (PGC1-α)→peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ)→cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)→mitochondrial activity, proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix deposition. Reduced PTEN expression correlated with enhanced PI3K signaling, which upregulated ASMC remodeling. The inhibition of microRNA-21-5p increased PTEN and reduced mTOR signaling and remodeling. Mimics of microRNA-21-5p had opposing effects. IgE induced ASMC remodeling was significantly reduced by inhibition of mTOR or STAT3. In conclusion, non-immune IgE alone is sufficient for stimulated ASMC remodeling by upregulating microRNA-21-5p. Our findings suggest that the suppression of micoRNA-21-5p may present a therapeutic target to reduce airway wall remodeling.
Insight into Structural Characteristics of Protein-Substrate Interaction in Pimaricin Thioesterase
Authors: Fan Shuobing , Wang Rufan , Li Chen , Bai Linquan , Zhao Yi-Lei , Shi Ting
Published: February 2019

As a polyene antibiotic of great pharmaceutical significance, pimaricin has been extensively studied to enhance its productivity and effectiveness. In our previous studies, pre-reaction state (PRS) has been validated as one of the significant conformational categories before macrocyclization, and is critical to mutual recognition and catalytic preparation in thioesterase (TE)-catalyzed systems. In our study, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were conducted on pimaricin TE-polyketide complex and PRS, as well as pre-organization state (POS), a molecular conformation possessing a pivotal intra-molecular hydrogen bond, were detected. Conformational transition between POS and PRS was observed in one of the simulations, and POS was calculated to be energetically more stable than PRS by 4.58 kcal/mol. The structural characteristics of PRS and POS-based hydrogen-bonding, and hydrophobic interactions were uncovered, and additional simulations were carried out to rationalize the functions of several key residues (Q29, M210, and R186). Binding energies, obtained from MM/PBSA calculations, were further decomposed to residues, in order to reveal their roles in product release. Our study advanced a comprehensive understanding of pimaricin TE-catalyzed macrocyclization from the perspectives of conformational change, protein-polyketide recognition, and product release, and provided potential residues for rational modification of pimaricin TE.
Hippocampal LMNA Gene Expression is Increased in Late-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Méndez-López Iván , Blanco-Luquin Idoia , Sánchez-Ruiz de Gordoa Javier , Urdánoz-Casado Amaya , Roldán Miren , Acha Blanca , Echavarri Carmen , Zelaya Victoria , Jericó Ivonne , Mendioroz Maite
Published: February 2019

Lamins are fibrillary proteins that are crucial in maintaining nuclear shape and function. Recently, B-type lamin dysfunction has been linked to tauopathies. However, the role of A-type lamin in neurodegeneration is still obscure. Here, we examined A-type and B-type lamin expression levels by RT-qPCR in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients and controls in the hippocampus, the core of tau pathology in the brain. LMNA, LMNB1, and LMNB2 genes showed moderate mRNA levels in the human hippocampus with highest expression for the LMNA gene. Moreover, LMNA mRNA levels were increased at the late stage of AD (1.8-fold increase; p-value < 0.05). In addition, a moderate positive correlation was found between age and LMNA mRNA levels (Pearson’s r = 0.581, p-value = 0.018) within the control hippocampal samples that was not present in the hippocampal samples affected by AD. A-type and B-type lamin genes are expressed in the human hippocampus at the transcript level. LMNA mRNA levels are up-regulated in the hippocampal tissue in late stages of AD. The effect of age on increasing LMNA expression levels in control samples seems to be disrupted by the development of AD pathology.
Transcriptome Analyses Provide Novel Insights into Heat Stress Responses in Chieh-Qua (Benincasa hispida Cogn. var. Chieh-Qua How)
Authors: Wang Min , Jiang Biao , Liu Wenrui , Lin Yu’e , Liang Zhaojun , He Xiaoming , Peng Qingwu
Published: February 2019

Temperature rising caused by global warming has imposed significant negative effects on crop qualities and yields. To get the well-known molecular mechanism upon the higher temperature, we carefully analyzed the RNA sequencing-based transcriptomic responses of two contrasting chieh-qua genotypes: A39 (heat-tolerant) and H5 (heat-sensitive). In this study, twelve cDNA libraries generated from A39 and H5 were performed with a transcriptome assay under normal and heat stress conditions, respectively. A total of 8705 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected under normal conditions (3676 up-regulated and 5029 down-regulated) and 1505 genes under heat stress (914 up-regulated and 591 down-regulated), respectively. A significant positive correlation between RNA-Seq data and qRT-PCR results was identified. DEGs related to heat shock proteins (HSPs), ubiquitin-protein ligase, transcriptional factors, and pentatricopeptide repeat-containing proteins were significantly changed after heat stress. Several genes, which encoded HSPs (CL2311.Contig3 and CL6612.Contig2), cytochrome P450 (CL4517.Contig4 and CL683.Contig7), and bHLH TFs (CL914.Contig2 and CL8321.Contig1) were specifically induced after four days of heat stress. DEGs detected in our study between these two contrasting cultivars would provide a novel basis for isolating useful candidate genes of heat stress responses in chieh-qua.
LJELSR: A Strengthened Version of JELSR for Feature Selection and Clustering
Authors: Wu Sha-Sha , Hou Mi-Xiao , Feng Chun-Mei , Liu Jin-Xing
Published: February 2019

Feature selection and sample clustering play an important role in bioinformatics. Traditional feature selection methods separate sparse regression and embedding learning. Later, to effectively identify the significant features of the genomic data, Joint Embedding Learning and Sparse Regression (JELSR) is proposed. However, since there are many redundancy and noise values in genomic data, the sparseness of this method is far from enough. In this paper, we propose a strengthened version of JELSR by adding the L1-norm constraint on the regularization term based on a previous model, and call it LJELSR, to further improve the sparseness of the method. Then, we provide a new iterative algorithm to obtain the convergence solution. The experimental results show that our method achieves a state-of-the-art level both in identifying differentially expressed genes and sample clustering on different genomic data compared to previous methods. Additionally, the selected differentially expressed genes may be of great value in medical research.
Expression of SLC5A5 in Circulating Tumor Cells May Distinguish Follicular Thyroid Carcinomas from Adenomas: Implications for Blood-Based Preoperative Diagnosis
Authors: Jee Hyeon-Gun , Kim Byoung-Ae , Kim Minjun , Yu Hyeong , Choi June , Kim Su-jin , Lee Kyu
Published: February 2019

Preoperative diagnosis of thyroid nodules reduces unnecessary surgery. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) may contain information of primary tumor(s). We asked whether the peripheral blood expression of genes specific for circulating tumor cells (CTCs) differentiates benign thyroid nodules from malignant nodules. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from thyroid nodule patients (n = 20) were isolated preoperatively and the expression of seven CTC-associated genes was measured in patients with thyroid nodule(s) (n = 20). Among the tested genes, the expression of SLC5A5 and LGALS3 were validated in a larger number of patients (n = 64) and our results show that SLC5A5 expression differentiated follicular adenomas from follicular carcinomas (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.831). The expression of SLC5A5 in CTCs may preoperatively distinguish thyroid follicular adenomas from follicular carcinomas.
Commenting on the “Great Debate”: General Abilities, Specific Abilities, and the Tools of the Trade
Authors: Beier Margaret E. , Kell Harrison J. , Lang Jonas W. B.
Published: February 2019

We review papers in the special issue regarding the great debate on general and specific abilities. Papers in the special issue either provided an empirical examination of the debate using a uniform dataset or they provided a debate commentary. Themes that run through the papers and that are discussed further here are that: (1) the importance of general and specific ability predictors will largely depend on the outcome to be predicted, (2) the effectiveness of both general and specific predictors will largely depend on the quality and breadth of how the manifest indicators are measured, and (3) research on general and specific ability predictors is alive and well and more research is warranted. We conclude by providing a review of potentially fruitful areas of future research.
Beyond the Paris Agreement: Intellectual Property, Innovation Policy, and Climate Justice
Authors: Rimmer Matthew
Published: February 2019

The multidisciplinary field of climate law and justice needs to address the topic of intellectual property, climate finance, and technology transfer to ensure effective global action on climate change. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 1992 (UNFCCC) established a foundation for the development, application and diffusion of low-carbon technologies. Against this background, it is useful to analyse how the Paris Agreement 2015 deals with the subject of intellectual property, technology transfer, and climate change. While there was discussion of a number of options for intellectual property and climate change, the final Paris Agreement 2015 contains no text on intellectual property. There is text, though, on technology transfer. The Paris Agreement 2015 relies upon technology networks and alliances in order to promote the diffusion and dissemination of green technologies. In order to achieve technology transfer, there has been an effort to rely on a number of formal technology networks, alliances, and public–private partnerships—including the UNFCCC Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN); the World Intellectual Property Organization’s WIPO GREEN; Mission Innovation; the Breakthrough Energy Coalition; and the International Solar Alliance. There have been grand hopes and ambitions in respect of these collaborative and co-operative ventures. However, there have also been significant challenges in terms of funding, support, and operation. In a case of innovation policy pluralism, there also seems to be a significant level of overlap and duplication between the diverse international initiatives. There have been concerns about whether such technology networks are effective, efficient, adaptable, and accountable. There is a need to better align intellectual property, innovation policy, and technology transfer in order to achieve access to clean energy and climate justice under the framework of the Paris Agreement 2015. At a conceptual level, philosophical discussions about climate justice should be grounded in pragmatic considerations about intellectual property and technology transfer. An intellectual property mechanism is necessary to provide for research, development, and deployment of clean technologies. There is a need to ensure that the technology mechanism of the Paris Agreement 2015 can enable the research, development, and diffusion of clean technologies at a scale to address the global challenges of climate change.
Integrated Anode Electrode Composited Cu–Sn Alloy and Separator for Microscale Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Yuxia , Jiang Kai , Yang Shuting
Published: February 2019

A novel integrated electrode structure was designed and synthesized by direct electrodepositing of Cu–Sn alloy anode materials on the Celgard 2400 separator (Cel-CS electrode). The integrated structure of the Cel-CS electrode not only greatly simplifies the battery fabrication process and increases the energy density of the whole electrode, but also buffers the mechanical stress caused by volume expansion of Cu–Sn alloy active material; thus, effectively preventing active material falling off from the substrate and improving the cycle stability of the electrode. The Cel-CS electrode exhibits excellent cycle performance and superior rate performance. A capacity of 728 mA·h·g−1 can be achieved after 250 cycles at the current density of 100 mA·g−1. Even cycled at a current density of 5 A·g−1 for 650 cycles, the Cel-CS electrode maintained a specific capacity of 938 mA·h·g−1, which illustrates the potential application prospects of the Cel-CS electrode in microelectronic devices and systems.
AC-Filtering Supercapacitors Based on Edge Oriented Vertical Graphene and Cross-Linked Carbon Nanofiber
Authors: Li Wenyue , Islam Nazifah , Ren Guofeng , Li Shiqi , Fan Zhaoyang
Published: February 2019

There is strong interest in developing high-frequency (HF) supercapacitors or electrochemical capacitors (ECs), which can work at the hundreds to kilo hertz range for line-frequency alternating current (AC) filtering in the substitution of bulky aluminum electrolytic capacitors, with broad applications in the power and electronic fields. Although great progress has been achieved in the studies of electrode materials for ECs, most of them are not suitable to work in this high frequency range because of the slow electrochemical processes involved. Edge-oriented vertical graphene (VG) networks on 3D scaffolds have a unique structure that offers straightforward pore configuration, reasonable surface area, and high electronic conductivity, thus allowing the fabrication of HF-ECs. Comparatively, highly conductive freestanding cross-linked carbon nanofibers (CCNFs), derived from bacterial cellulose in a rapid plasma pyrolysis process, can also provide a large surface area but free of rate-limiting micropores, and are another good candidate for HF-ECs. In this mini review, advances in these fields are summarized, with emphasis on our recent contributions in the study of these materials and their electrochemical properties including preliminary demonstrations of HF-ECs for AC line filtering and pulse power storage applications.
Improvement of Asphalt-Aggregate Adhesion Using Plant Ash Byproduct
Authors: Liu Zhuangzhuang , Huang Xiaonan , Sha Aimin , Wang Hao , Chen Jiaqi , Li Cheng
Published: February 2019

The adhesion bonding between asphalt and aggregate significantly influences field performance and durability of asphalt pavement. Adhesion promoters are typically used to improve asphalt-aggregate bonding and minimize moisture-related pavement damage, such as cracking and raveling. This study evaluated the effectiveness of plant ash byproduct as adhesion promoter to improve asphalt-aggregate adhesion performance. Three commonly used aggregate types (granite, basic rock, and limestone) and two asphalt binder types were used in laboratory testing. A modified stripping test method was developed to evaluate test results with image analysis and measurement of asphalt film thickness. The contact angle test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS) were conducted. Test results showed that plant ash lixivium significantly improved asphalt-aggregate adhesion. Among three aggregate types, granite yielded the worst asphalt-aggregate adhesion for both control and treated specimens. The effectiveness of adhesion promotion varied depending on the type of asphalt or aggregate and temperature. The SEM/EDS observations showed that the mesh-like crystalline was formed at the interface between asphalt binder and aggregate in the treated specimen, which was believed to enhance the interfacial bonding and prevent asphalt film peeling off from aggregate.
Influence of Overheating Phenomenon on Bitumen and Asphalt Mixture Properties
Authors: Sarnowski Michał , Kowalski Karol J. , Król Jan B. , Radziszewski Piotr
Published: February 2019

In the course of manufacturing, transport and installation, road bitumens and asphalt mixtures can be exposed to the impact of elevated process temperatures exceeding 240 °C. This mainly applies to the mixtures used for road pavements and bridge deck insulation during adverse weather conditions. The heating process should not change the basic and rheological properties of binders and the asphalt mixtures that to a degree cause the degradation of asphalt pavement durability. The work involved analyzing the properties of non-modified bitumens and SBS polymer modified bitumens, heated at temperatures of 200 °C, 250 °C and 300 °C for 1 h. Next, the asphalt mixtures were heated in the same temperatures. Based on the developed Overheating Degradation Index (ODI) it was demonstrated that polymer-modified bitumens were characterized by higher overheating sensitivity A(ODI) than non-modified bitumens, which was confirmed by mixture test results. Overheating limit temperatures T(ODI) were determined, which in the case of polymer-modified bitumens are up to 20 °C lower than for non-modified bitumens. When the temperature increases above T(ODI), loss of viscoelastic properties occurs in the material which causes, among other effects, a loss of resistance to fatigue cracking.
Enhancing the Energy Density of Tricritical Ferroelectrics for Energy Storage Applications
Authors: He Li , Wang Yan , Gao Jinghui , Wang Jianhong , Zhao Tongxin , He Zhixin , Zhong Zuting , Zhang Xingmin , Zhong Lisheng
Published: February 2019

Recently, tricritical ferroelectrics have been drawn tremendous attention, owing to their ultrahigh dielectric permittivities of up to εr > 5 × 104, and their consideration for prototype materials in the development of high-performance energy storage devices. Nevertheless, such a materials system suffers from the disadvantage of low breakdown strength, which makes its energy density far from the satisfactory level for practical application. In this paper, a material-modification approach has been reported, for improving the dielectric strength for tricritical ferroelectric materials Ba(Ti1−xSnx)O3 (BTS) through doping with Bi1.5ZnNb1.5O7 (BZN) additives. The results suggest that the electric strength has been largely improved in the modified tricritical ferroelectric material (BTSx-yBZN), and the associated energy density reaches Ue = 1.15 J/cm3. Further microstructure investigation indicates that the modified tricritical ferroelectric material exhibits homogenous fine grains with perovskite structure in crystal symmetry, and the BZN may help to form a special structure that could enhance the breakdown strength. The findings may advance the material design and development of high-energy storage materials.
Raman Spectroscopic Studies of Dinaphthothienothiophene (DNTT)
Authors: Bhardwaj Bishwajeet Singh , Sugiyama Takeshi , Namba Naoko , Umakoshi Takayuki , Uemura Takafumi , Sekitani Tsuyoshi , Verma Prabhat
Published: February 2019

The application of dinaphthothienothiophene (DNTT) molecules, a novel organic semiconductor material, has recently increased due to its high charge carrier mobility and thermal stability. Since the structural properties of DNTT molecules, such as the molecular density distribution and molecular orientations, significantly affect their charge carrier mobility in organic field-effect transistors devices, investigating these properties would be important. Here, we report Raman spectroscopic studies on DNTT in a transistor device, which was further analyzed by the density functional theory. We also show a perspective of this technique for orientation analysis of DNTT molecules within a transistor device.
Experimental Analysis on the Influence and Optimization of μ-RUM Parameters in Machining Alumina Bioceramic
Authors: Abdo Basem M. A. , Anwar Saqib , El-Tamimi Abdulaziz M. , Abouel Nasr Emad
Published: February 2019

Fabrication of precise micro-features in bioceramic materials is still a challenging task. This is because of the inherent properties of bioceramics, such as low fracture toughness, high hardness, and brittleness. This paper places an emphasis on investigating the multi-objective optimization of fabrication of microchannels in alumina (Al2O3) bioceramics by using rotary ultrasonic machining (RUM). The influence of five major input parameters, namely vibration frequency, vibration amplitude, spindle speed, depth of cut, and feed rate on the surface quality, edge chipping, and dimensional accuracy of the milled microchannels was analyzed. Surface morphology and microstructure of the machined microchannels were also evaluated and analyzed. Unlike in previous studies, the effect of vibration frequency on the surface morphology and roughness is discussed in detail. A set of designed experiments based on central composite design (CCD) method was carried out. Main effect plots and surface plots were analyzed to detect the significance of RUM input parameters on the outputs. Later, a multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) was employed to determine the optimal parametric conditions for minimizing the surface roughness, edge chipping, and dimensional errors of the machined microchannels. The optimized values of the surface roughness (Ra and Rt), side edge chipping (SEC), bed edge chipping (BEC), depth error (DE), and width error (WE) achieved through the multi-objective optimization were 0.27 μm, 2.7 μm, 8.7 μm, 8 μm, 5%, and 5.2%, respectively.
Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Does Allergy Play a Role?
Authors: Marcus Sonya , DelGaudio John M. , Roland Lauren T. , Wise Sarah K.
Published: February 2019

A few chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) variants have demonstrated a strong association with environmental allergy, including allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) and central compartment atopic disease (CCAD). However, the overall relationship between CRS and allergy remains poorly defined. The goal of this review is to evaluate the relationship between CRS and allergy with a focus on specific CRS variants.
An Experimental Study of 3D Electrode-Facilitated Particle Traffic Flow-Focusing Driven by Induced-Charge Electroosmosis
Authors: Jiang Tianyi , Tao Ye , Jiang Hongyuan , Liu Weiyu , Hu Yansu , Tang Dewei
Published: February 2019

In this paper we present a novel microfluidic approach for continuous, rapid and switchable particle concentration, using induced-charge electroosmosis (ICEO) in 3D electrode layouts. Field-effect control on non-linear electroosmosis in the transverse direction greatly facilitates a selective concentration of biological yeast cells from a straight main microchannel into one of the three downstream branch channels in our microfluidic device. For the geometry configuration of 3D driving electrode plates on sidewalls and a 2D planar gate electrode strip on the channel bottom surface, we briefly describe the underlying physics of an ICEO-based particle flow-focusing method, and provide relevant simulation results to show how gate voltage amplitude can be used to guide the motion trajectory of the concentrated particle stream. With a relatively simple geometrical configuration, the proposed microfluidic device provides new possibilities to controllably concentrate micro/nanoparticles in continuous flow by using ICEO, and is suitable for a high-throughput front-end cell concentrator interfacing with various downstream biosensors.
Potential of Zerumbone as an Anti-Cancer Agent
Authors: Girisa Sosmitha , Shabnam Bano , Monisha Javadi , Fan Lu , Halim Clarissa Esmeralda , Arfuso Frank , Ahn Kwang Seok , Sethi Gautam , Kunnumakkara Ajaikumar B.
Published: February 2019

Cancer is still a major risk factor to public health globally, causing approximately 9.8 million deaths worldwide in 2018. Despite advances in conventional treatment modalities for cancer treatment, there are still few effective therapies available due to the lack of selectivity, adverse side effects, non-specific toxicities, and tumour recurrence. Therefore, there is an immediate need for essential alternative therapeutics, which can prove to be beneficial and safe against cancer. Various phytochemicals from natural sources have been found to exhibit beneficial medicinal properties against various human diseases. Zerumbone is one such compound isolated from Zingiber zerumbet Smith that possesses diverse pharmacological properties including those of antioxidant, antibacterial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, as well as anti-neoplastic. Zerumbone has shown its anti-cancer effects by causing significant suppression of proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis through the molecular modulation of different pathways such as NF-κB, Akt, and IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 (interleukin-6/janus kinase-2/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) and their downstream target proteins. The current review briefly summarizes the modes of action and therapeutic potential of zerumbone against various cancers.
Understanding the Impact of Cu-In-Ga-S Nanoparticles Compactness on Holes Transfer of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhao Dandan , Wu Yinghui , Tu Bao , Xing Guichuan , Li Haifeng , He Zhubing
Published: February 2019

Although a compact holes-transport-layer (HTL) film has always been deemed mandatory for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the impact their compactness on the device performance has rarely been studied in detail. In this work, based on a device structure of FTO/CIGS/perovskite/PCBM/ZrAcac/Ag, that effect was systematically investigated with respect to device performance along with photo-physics characterization tools. Depending on spin-coating speed, the grain size and coverage ratio of those CIGS films on FTO substrates can be tuned, and this can result in different hole transfer efficiencies at the anode interface. At a speed of 4000 r.p.m., the band level offset between the perovskite and CIGS modified FTO was reduced to a minimum of 0.02 eV, leading to the best device performance, with conversion efficiency of 15.16% and open-circuit voltage of 1.04 V, along with the suppression of hysteresis. We believe that the balance of grain size and coverage ratio of CIGS interlayers can be tuned to an optimal point in the competition between carrier transport and recombination at the interface based on the proposed mechanism. This paper definitely deepens our understanding of the hole transfer mechanism at the interface of PSC devices, and facilitates future design of high-performance devices.
Maternal and Congenital Toxoplasmosis: Diagnosis and Treatment Recommendations of a French Multidisciplinary Working Group
Authors: Peyron François , L’ollivier Coralie , Mandelbrot Laurent , Wallon Martine , Piarroux Renaud , Kieffer François , Hadjadj Eve , Paris Luc , Garcia –Meric Patricia
Published: February 2019

Women infected with toxoplasmosis during pregnancy do not present symptoms in most cases, but the consequences of the congenital infection may be severe for the unborn child. Fetal damage can range from asymptomatic to severe neurological alterations to retinal lesions prone to potential flare up and relapses lifelong. Despite the possible severity of outcome, congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) is a neglected disease. There is no consensus regarding screening during pregnancy, prenatal/postnatal treatment or short or medium term follow-up. Since 1992, France has offered systematic serological testing to non-immune pregnant women, monthly until delivery. Any maternal infection is thus detected; moreover, diagnosis of congenital infection can be made at birth and follow-up can be provided. “Guidelines” drawn up by a multidisciplinary group are presented here, concerning treatment, before and after birth. The recommendations are based on the regular analysis of the literature and the results of the working group. The evaluation of the recommendations takes into account the robustness of the recommendation and the quality of the evidence.
Covalently Crosslinked Nanogels: An NMR Study of the Effect of Monomer Reactivity on Composition and Structure
Authors: Liu Pengfei , Pearce Charles M. , Anastasiadi Rozalia-Maria , Resmini Marina , Castilla Ana M.
Published: February 2019

Covalently crosslinked nanogels are widely explored as drug delivery systems and sensors. Radical polymerization provides a simple, inexpensive, and broadly applicable approach for their preparation, although the random nature of the reaction requires careful study of the final chemical composition. We demonstrate how the different reactivities of the monomers influence the total degree of incorporation into the polymer matrix and the role played by the experimental parameters in maximizing polymerization efficiency. Nanogels based on N-isopropylacrylamide, N-n-propylacrylamide, and acrylamide crosslinked with N,N’-methylenebisacrylamide were included in this study, in combination with functional monomers N-acryloyl-l-proline, 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid, and 4-vinyl-1H-imidazole. Total monomer concentration and initiator quantities are determining parameters for maximizing monomer conversions and chemical yields. The results show that the introduction of functional monomers, changes in the chemical structure of the polymerizable unit, and the addition of templating molecules can all have an effect on the polymerization kinetics. This can significantly impact the final composition of the matrices and their chemical structure, which in turn influence the morphology and properties of the nanogels.