Sample records for active oxygen content

  1. Gaseous oxygen uptake in porous media at different moisture contents and airflow velocities.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Prabhakar; Poulsen, Tjalfe G; Kalluri, Prasad N V

    2009-06-01

    The presence and distribution of water in the pore space is a critical factor for flow and transport of gases through unsaturated porous media. The water content also affects the biological activity necessary for treatment of polluted gas streams in biofilters. In this research, microbial activity and quantity of inactive volume in a porous medium as a function of moisture content and gas flow rate were investigated. Yard waste compost was used as a test medium, and oxygen uptake rate measurements were used to quantify microbial activity and effective active compost volume using batch and column flow-through systems. Compost water contents were varied from air-dry to field capacity and gas flows ranged from 0.2 to 2 L x min(-1). The results showed that overall microbial activity and the relative fraction of active compost medium volume increased with airflow velocity for all levels of water content up to a certain flow rate above which the oxygen uptake rate assumed a constant value independent of gas flow. The actual value of the maximum oxygen uptake rate was controlled by the water content. The oxygen uptake rate also increased with increasing water content and reached a maximum between 42 and 48% volumetric water content, above which it decreased, again likely because of formation of inactive zones in the compost medium. Overall, maximum possible oxygen uptake rate as a function of gas flow rate across all water contents and gas flows could be approximated by a linear expression. The relative fraction of active volume also increased with gas flow rate and reached approximately 80% for the highest gas flows used.

  2. Influence of Oxygen on Cu Distribution Behavior Between Molten Iron and FeS-Based Flux

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kang, Youngjo; Shin, Kil-Sun; Morita, Kazuki

    2018-06-01

    Cu distribution behavior between molten iron and a sulfide flux was investigated under different oxygen contents in the sulfide flux to clarify the effect of oxygen content in FeS-based flux on Cu removal. The activity coefficient of CuS0.5 could be experimentally estimated according to the oxygen content. Based on the present result, the possibility of Cu removal by sulfide flux containing a certain amount of oxide was discussed.

  3. Oxygen content and oxidation in frying oil.

    PubMed

    Totani, Nagao; Yawata, Miho; Mori, Terutoshi; Hammond, Earl G

    2013-01-01

    The relation between oxygen content and oxidation was investigated in frying oils. When canola oil, a canola-soybean oil blend or a trioctanoylglycerol (glycerol tricaprate) sample were heated with stirring, their dissolved oxygen content decreased abruptly at about 120°C and the carbonyl values (CV) increased gradually with heating and reached values of 6-7 at 180°C in the blended and canola oils, while the CV of trioctanoylglycerol was zero up to 150°C. Probably this abrupt decrease in oxygen content above 120°C can be attributed to the solubility of oxygen in oil rather than because of oxidative reactions. The oxygen content of oil that has been stripped of part of its oxygen, increased at temperatures between 25 and 120°C. In oils that have lost their oxygen by being heated to 180°C, standing at room temperature will slowly restore their oxygen content as the oil cools. Intermittent simple heating of oil promoted oxygen absorbance during cooling periods and standing times, and it resulted in an elevated content of polar compounds (PC). Domestic deep-frying conditions also favor the presence of oxygen in oil below 120°C and during the oil's long standing at room temperature. The oxygen content in oil was low during deep-frying, but oxidation was active at the oil/air interface of bubbles generated by foods being fried. Repeated use of oil at temperatures between 25-180°C resulted in oil with low oxygen values.

  4. Activated carbon oxygen content influence on water and surfactant adsorption.

    PubMed

    Pendleton, Phillip; Wu, Sophie Hua; Badalyan, Alexander

    2002-02-15

    This research investigates the adsorption properties of three activated carbons (AC) derived from coconut, coal, and wood origin. Each carbon demonstrates different levels of resistance to 2 M NaOH treatment. The coconut AC offers the greatest and wood AC the least resistance. The influence of base treatment is mapped in terms of its effects on specific surface area, micropore volume, water adsorption, and dodecanoic acid adsorption from both water and 2 M NaOH solution. A linear relationship exists between the number of water molecules adsorbed at the B-point of the water adsorption isotherm and the oxygen content determined from elemental analysis. Surfactant adsorption isotherms from water and 2 M NaOH indicate that the AC oxygen content effects a greater dependence on affinity for surfactant than specific surface area and micropore volume. We show a linear relationship between the plateau amount of surfactant adsorbed and the AC oxygen content in both water and NaOH phases. The higher the AC oxygen content, the lower the amount of surfactant adsorbed. In contrast, no obvious relationship could be drawn between the surfactant amount adsorbed and the surface area.

  5. Oxidative processes in soybean and pea seeds: effect of light, temperature, and water content

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vertucci, C. W.; Leopold, A. C.

    1987-01-01

    Oxidative processes are probable determinants of longevity of seeds in storage. Measurements of actual oxygen uptake rates were made for soybean and pea seeds as a comparison of short and long lived seeds when light, temperature, and moisture contents were varied. In both peas and soybeans, the oxygen uptake was depressed at low temperatures (<16 degrees C) and low water contents (< 0.25 gram H2O per gram dry weight). Apparent activation energies under these conditions are very high, while apparent activation energies of seeds at higher water contents and at temperatures greater than 22 degrees C are much less. Light enhances the level of oxygen uptake in pea, but reduces the level of oxygen uptake in soybean. The complexities of the interactions of oxygen uptake with environmental conditions in soybean compared to pea suggest that oxidative processes occur in soybean at low water contents, but are essentially absent in pea. It is suggested that the additional oxidative processes in soybean with moisture contents between 0.10 and 0.24 gram per gram may contribute to the poorer longevity of soybean seed compared to pea seed.

  6. Seasonal and ontogenetic changes modulate oxygen consumption and antioxidant defenses in the cutlassfish Trichiurus lepturus (Pisces, Trichiuridae).

    PubMed

    Wilhelm-Filho, Danilo; Fraga, César G; Boveris, Alberto

    2017-09-01

    Several oxidative stress markers and liver oxygen consumption were measured in different tissues of the marine fish Trichiurus lepturus in late summer and late winter, as well as in juveniles and adult females. Oxygen consumption in liver, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity in liver, red cells, lens and roe, vitamin E, ubiquinol 10 , β-carotene in liver, red cells, and roe, as well as contents of reduced glutathione (GSH) and lipoperoxidation (TBARS) in red cells were evaluated. Regarding ontogeny, compared to adult fish, juveniles showed significant higher SOD activity in liver and lens, as well as higher liver contents of vitamin E. In contrast, adult females showed higher contents of vitamin E in roe, ubiquinol 10 in liver and roe, and higher GSH levels in red cells, while the other markers remained unchanged. Regarding seasonal changes, no differences were detected in adult females for liver CAT and ubiquinol 10 , CAT in roe, vitamin E in roe and in red cells, liver and red cell ubiquinol 10 , and in GSH in red cells. However, and coinciding with the spawning period of late summer, liver oxygen consumption, SOD and CAT activity and ubiquinol 10 contents in roe and SOD activity in red cells, and red cell TBARS contents were higher compared to late winter. These temporal antioxidant adjustments of Trichiurus lepturus seem to be parallel to the higher oxygen consumption typical of juvenile forms and also to the intense spawning and foraging activities of adult females in late summer. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  7. Evaluation of Optimum Moisture Content for Composting of Beef Manure and Bedding Material Mixtures Using Oxygen Uptake Measurement

    PubMed Central

    Kim, Eunjong; Lee, Dong-Hyun; Won, Seunggun; Ahn, Heekwon

    2016-01-01

    Moisture content influences physiological characteristics of microbes and physical structure of solid matrices during composting of animal manure. If moisture content is maintained at a proper level, aerobic microorganisms show more active oxygen consumption during composting due to increased microbial activity. In this study, optimum moisture levels for composting of two bedding materials (sawdust, rice hull) and two different mixtures of bedding and beef manure (BS, Beef cattle manure+sawdust; BR, Beef cattle manure+rice hull) were determined based on oxygen uptake rate measured by a pressure sensor method. A broad range of oxygen uptake rates (0.3 to 33.3 mg O2/g VS d) were monitored as a function of moisture level and composting feedstock type. The maximum oxygen consumption of each material was observed near the saturated condition, which ranged from 75% to 98% of water holding capacity. The optimum moisture content of BS and BR were 70% and 57% on a wet basis, respectively. Although BS’s optimum moisture content was near saturated state, its free air space kept a favorable level (above 30%) for aerobic composting due to the sawdust’s coarse particle size and bulking effect. PMID:26954138

  8. Evaluation of Optimum Moisture Content for Composting of Beef Manure and Bedding Material Mixtures Using Oxygen Uptake Measurement.

    PubMed

    Kim, Eunjong; Lee, Dong-Hyun; Won, Seunggun; Ahn, Heekwon

    2016-05-01

    Moisture content influences physiological characteristics of microbes and physical structure of solid matrices during composting of animal manure. If moisture content is maintained at a proper level, aerobic microorganisms show more active oxygen consumption during composting due to increased microbial activity. In this study, optimum moisture levels for composting of two bedding materials (sawdust, rice hull) and two different mixtures of bedding and beef manure (BS, Beef cattle manure+sawdust; BR, Beef cattle manure+rice hull) were determined based on oxygen uptake rate measured by a pressure sensor method. A broad range of oxygen uptake rates (0.3 to 33.3 mg O2/g VS d) were monitored as a function of moisture level and composting feedstock type. The maximum oxygen consumption of each material was observed near the saturated condition, which ranged from 75% to 98% of water holding capacity. The optimum moisture content of BS and BR were 70% and 57% on a wet basis, respectively. Although BS's optimum moisture content was near saturated state, its free air space kept a favorable level (above 30%) for aerobic composting due to the sawdust's coarse particle size and bulking effect.

  9. Carbon, oxygen and their interaction with intrinsic point defects in solar silicon ribbon material: A speculative approach

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Goesele, U.; Ast, D. G.

    1983-01-01

    Some background information on intrinsic point defects is provided and on carbon and oxygen in silicon in so far as it may be relevant for the efficiency of solar cells fabricated from EFG ribbon material. The co-precipitation of carbon and oxygen and especially of carbon and silicon self interstitials are discussed. A simple model for the electrical activity of carbon-self-interstitial agglomerates is presented. The self-interstitial content of these agglomerates is assumed to determine their electrical activity and that both compressive stresses (high self-interstitial content) and tensile stresses (low self-interstitial content) give rise to electrical activity of the agglomerates. The self-interstitial content of these carbon-related agglomerates may be reduced by an appropriate high temperature treatment and enhanced by a supersaturation of self-interstitials generated during formation of the p-n junction of solar cells. Oxygen present in supersaturation in carbon-rich silicon may be induced to form SiO, precipitates by self-interstitials generated during phosphorus diffusion. It is proposed that the SiO2-Si interface of the precipates gives rise to a continuum of donor stables and that these interface states are responsible for at least part of the light inhancement effects observed in oxygen containing EFG silicon after phosphorus diffusion.

  10. Effects of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing functional groups of activated carbon nanotubes on the electrochemical performance in supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Haiyan; Song, Huaihe; Chen, Xiaohong; Zhang, Su; Zhou, Jisheng; Ma, Zhaokun

    2015-07-01

    A kind of nitrogen- and oxygen-containing activated carbon nanotubes (ACNTs) has been prepared by carbonization and activation of polyaniline nanotubes obtained by rapidly mixed reaction. The ACNTs show oxygen content of 15.7% and nitrogen content of 2.97% (atomic ratio). The ACNTs perform high capacitance and good rate capability (327 F g-1 at the current density of 10 A g-1) when used as the electrode materials for supercapacitors. Hydrogen reduction has been further used to investigate the effects of surface functional groups on the electrochemical performance. The changes for both structural component and electrochemical performance reveal that the quinone oxygen, pyridinic nitrogen, and pyrrolic nitrogen of carbon have the most obvious influence on the capacitive property because of their pseudocapacitive contributions.

  11. A key parameter on the adsorption of diluted aniline solutions with activated carbons: The surface oxygen content.

    PubMed

    Pardo, Beatrice; Ferrer, Nabí; Sempere, Julià; Gonzalez-Olmos, Rafael

    2016-11-01

    A total of 11 different commercial activated carbons (AC) with well characterized textural properties and oxygen surface content were tested as adsorbents for the removal of aniline as a target water pollutant. The maximum adsorption capacity of aniline for the studied AC was from 138.9 to 257.9 mg g(-1) at 296.15 K and it was observed to be strongly related to the textural properties of the AC, mainly with the BET surface area and the micropore volume. It was not observed any influence of the oxygen surface content of the AC on the maximum adsorption capacity. However, it was found that at low aniline aqueous concentration, the presence of oxygen surface groups plays a dominant role during the adsorption. A high concentration of oxygen surface groups, mainly carboxylic and phenolic groups, decreases the aniline adsorption regardless of the surface area of the AC. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Study of Chromium Oxide Activities in EAF Slags

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Baijun; Li, Fan; Wang, Hui; Sichen, Du

    2016-02-01

    The activity coefficients of chromium in Cu-Cr melts were determined by equilibrating liquid copper with solid Cr2O3 in CO-CO2 atmosphere. The temperature dependence of the activity coefficients of chromium in Cu-Cr melts could be expressed as lg γ_{Cr}(s)^{0} = { 3 2 5 9( ± 1 8 6} )/T - 0. 5 9( { ± 0. 1} ). Based on the above results, the activities of bivalent and trivalent chromium oxide in some slags at 1873 K (1600 °C) were measured. The slags were equilibrated with Cu-Cr melts under two oxygen partial pressures ( {p_{O}_{ 2} }} } = 6.9 × 10-4 and 1.8 × 10-6 Pa, respectively). The morphology of the quenched slags and the solubility of chromium oxide in the melts were investigated by EPMA, SEM, and XRD. Under both oxygen partial pressures, the slags were saturated by the solid solution MgAl2- x Cr x O4- δ . At the low oxygen partial pressure (1.8 × 10-6 Pa), the content of Cr in the liquid phase varied from 0.4 to 1.6 mass pct with the total Cr content in the slags increasing from 1.3 to 10.8 mass pct. At the high oxygen partial pressure (6.9 × 10-4 Pa), the content of Cr in the liquid phase decreased to the level of 0.2 to 0.6 mass pct. Both the activities of CrO and Cr2O3 in slag were found to increase approximately linearly with the increase of the total Cr content in slag. While the oxygen partial pressure had minor effect on the activity of Cr2O3 in the slag, it had significant effect on the activity of CrO.

  13. Seasonal changes in blood oxygen transport and acid-base status in the tegu lizard, Tupinambis merianae.

    PubMed

    Andrade, Denis V; Brito, Simone P; Toledo, Luís Felipe; Abe, Augusto S

    2004-05-20

    Oxygen-binding properties, blood gases, and acid-base parameters were studied in tegu lizards, Tupinambis merianae, at different seasons and temperatures. Independent of temperature and pH, blood oxygen affinity was higher in dormant lizards than in those active during the summer. Haematocrit (Hct) and hemoglobin content ([Hb]) were greater in active lizards resulting in a higher oxygen-carrying capacity. Nucleoside triphosphate content ([NTP]) was reduced during dormancy, but the ratio between [NTP] and [Hb] remained unchanged. Dormancy was accompanied by an increase in plasma bicarbonate ([HCO-(3)]pl) and an elevation of arterial CO2 partial pressure (PaCO2) and CO2 content in the plasma (CplCO2). These changes in acid-base parameters persist over a broad range of body temperatures. In vivo, arterial O2 partial pressure (PaO2) and O2 content (CaO2) were not affected by season and tended to increase with temperature. Arterial pH (pHa) of dormant animals is reduced compared to active lizards at body temperatures below 15 degrees C, while no significant difference was noticed at higher temperatures. Copyright 2003 Elsevier B.V.

  14. Effects of biotic and abiotic factors on the oxygen content of green sea turtle nests during embryogenesis.

    PubMed

    Chen, Chiu-Lin; Wang, Chun-Chun; Cheng, I-Jiunn

    2010-10-01

    Several biotic and abiotic factors can influence nest oxygen content during embryogenesis. Several of these factors were determined during each developmental stage of green sea turtle embryos on Wan-an Island, Penghu Archipelago, Taiwan. We examined oxygen content in 7 nests in 2007 and 11 in 2008. Oxygen in the adjacent sand, total and viable clutch sizes, air, sand and nest temperatures, and sand characters of each nest were also determined. Oxygen content was lower in late stages than in the early and middle stages. It was also lower in the middle layer than in the upper and bottom layers. Nest temperature showed opposite trends, reaching its maximum value in late stages of development. Nest oxygen content was influenced by fraction of viable eggs, total clutch sizes, sand temperatures, maximum nest temperature and maximum change in the nest temperature during incubation. Clutch size during embryogenesis was the most influential factor overall. However, the major influential factors were different for different developmental stages. In the first half of the incubation, the development rate was low, and the change in the nest oxygen content was influenced mainly by the clutch size. During the second half, the rapid embryonic development rate became the dominant factor, and hatchling activities caused even greater oxygen consumption during the last stage of development.

  15. Palmitoleic acid (16:1n7) increases oxygen consumption, fatty acid oxidation and ATP content in white adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Cruz, Maysa M; Lopes, Andressa B; Crisma, Amanda R; de Sá, Roberta C C; Kuwabara, Wilson M T; Curi, Rui; de Andrade, Paula B M; Alonso-Vale, Maria I C

    2018-03-20

    We have recently demonstrated that palmitoleic acid (16:1n7) increases lipolysis, glucose uptake and glucose utilization for energy production in white adipose cells. In the present study, we tested the hypothesis that palmitoleic acid modulates bioenergetic activity in white adipocytes. For this, 3 T3-L1 pre-adipocytes were differentiated into mature adipocytes in the presence (or absence) of palmitic (16:0) or palmitoleic (16:1n7) acid at 100 or 200 μM. The following parameters were evaluated: lipolysis, lipogenesis, fatty acid (FA) oxidation, ATP content, oxygen consumption, mitochondrial mass, citrate synthase activity and protein content of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complexes. Treatment with 16:1n7 during 9 days raised basal and isoproterenol-stimulated lipolysis, FA incorporation into triacylglycerol (TAG), FA oxidation, oxygen consumption, protein expression of subunits representing OXPHOS complex II, III, and V and intracellular ATP content. These effects were not observed in adipocytes treated with 16:0. Palmitoleic acid, by concerted action on lipolysis, FA esterification, mitochondrial FA oxidation, oxygen consumption and ATP content, does enhance white adipocyte energy expenditure and may act as local hormone.

  16. The oxygen paradox of neurovascular coupling

    PubMed Central

    Leithner, Christoph; Royl, Georg

    2014-01-01

    The coupling of cerebral blood flow (CBF) to neuronal activity is well preserved during evolution. Upon changes in the neuronal activity, an incompletely understood coupling mechanism regulates diameter changes of supplying blood vessels, which adjust CBF within seconds. The physiologic brain tissue oxygen content would sustain unimpeded brain function for only 1 second if continuous oxygen supply would suddenly stop. This suggests that the CBF response has evolved to balance oxygen supply and demand. Surprisingly, CBF increases surpass the accompanying increases of cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2). However, a disproportionate CBF increase may be required to increase the concentration gradient from capillary to tissue that drives oxygen delivery. However, the brain tissue oxygen content is not zero, and tissue pO2 decreases could serve to increase oxygen delivery without a CBF increase. Experimental evidence suggests that CMRO2 can increase with constant CBF within limits and decreases of baseline CBF were observed with constant CMRO2. This conflicting evidence may be viewed as an oxygen paradox of neurovascular coupling. As a possible solution for this paradox, we hypothesize that the CBF response has evolved to safeguard brain function in situations of moderate pathophysiological interference with oxygen supply. PMID:24149931

  17. Accumulation of free polyamines enhances the antioxidant response in fruits of grafted tomato plants under water stress.

    PubMed

    Sánchez-Rodríguez, E; Romero, L; Ruiz, J M

    2016-01-15

    Polyamines, small aliphatic polycations, have been suggested to play key roles in a number of biological processes. In this paper, attempts were made to investigate the possibility of improving antioxidant response of tomato fruits in relation with endogenous free polyamines content. We studied the reactive oxygen species and polyamines content, and antioxidant and polyamine-biosynthesis enzyme activities in fruits of ungrafted and grafted tomato plants under moderate water stress. We used a drought-tolerant cultivar (Zarina) and drought-sensitive cultivar (Josefina) to obtain reciprocal graft, selfgraft and ungraft plants. Fruits contained higher endogenous polyamine content during the course of the experiment relative to the control, coupled with higher arginine decarboxylase and spermine synthase activities in Zarina ungrafted and ZarxJos. In these cultivars, tomato fruits showed a lower reactive oxygen species generation and higher catalase and superoxide dismutase activities, suggesting that a higher content in polyamines (especially spermine) exerted a positive effect on antioxidant systems. All of these data suggest that spermine leads to more effective reactive oxygen species scavenging (less tissue damage) in tomato fruits, which may function collectively to enhance dehydration tolerance. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  18. The double peaks and symmetric path phenomena in the catalytic activity of Pd/Al2O3-TiO2 catalysts with different TiO2 contents

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Shen; Guo, Yuyu; Li, Xingying; Wu, Xu; Li, Zhe

    2018-06-01

    Physicochemical properties of Pd/Al2O3-TiO2 catalysts with different amounts of TiO2 contents were investigated by XRD, nitrogen adsorption-desorption, FTIR, NH3-TPD, H2-TPR and XPS techniques. Catalysts of different compositions were tested in the ethanol oxidation reaction to study the effects of TiO2 contents. Double peaks and symmetric path phenomena were observed at certain temperatures with the increase in TiO2 contents. The symmetric peak phenomena and the diverse activity fluctuations have been ascribed to the controlling factors such as temperature and compositions. With the increase in TiO2 content, the surface area, adsorbed oxygen contents and surface acid quantity decreased gradually. The large surface area and adsorbed oxygen contents were conducive to the performance, while increased acid amounts were not beneficial for ethanol oxidation. At 150 and 175 °C, Pd/AT(X1

  19. An oxygen slow-releasing material and its application in water remediation as oxygen supplier.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Yanbo; Fang, Xingbin; Zhang, Zhiqing; Hu, Yonghua; Lu, Jun

    2017-11-01

    In this study, an oxygen slow-releasing material (OSRM) consisting of calcium peroxide (CaO 2 ), stearic acid (SA) and quartz sand was used to improve oxygen supply during bioremediation. The oxygen-releasing rates of CaO 2 powder and OSRM with different SA contents were investigated. The efficacy of OSRM as an oxygen supplier was assessed by water remediation experiments using activated sludge. Results showed that CaO 2 powder was effectively embedded by SA under anhydrous conditions. The oxygen-releasing rate decreased with increasing SA contents. Moreover, the OSRM exhibited higher oxygen-releasing capacity, and more effective pH control ability than CaO 2 powder. The water remediation experiments showed better removal of COD and [Formula: see text] with OSRM as the oxygen supplier. These results provided detailed information when CaO 2 was applied as the oxygen supplier in water remediation, which can serve as references for field application of bioremediation.

  20. The jumbo squid, Dosidicus gigas (Ommastrephidae), living in oxygen minimum zones II: Blood-oxygen binding

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seibel, Brad A.

    2013-10-01

    Dosidicus gigas is a large, metabolically active squid that migrates across a strong oxygen and temperature gradient in the Eastern Pacific. Here we analyze the oxygen-binding properties of the squid's respiratory protein (hemocyanin, Hc) that facilitate such activity. A high Hc-oxygen affinity, strong temperature dependence, and pronounced pH sensitivity (P50=0.009T2.03, pH 7.4; Bohr coefficient=ΔlogP50/ΔpH=-1.55+0.034T) of oxygen binding facilitate night-time foraging in the upper water column, and support suppressed oxygen demand in hypoxic waters at greater depths. Expanding hypoxia may act to alter the species habitable depth range. This analysis supports the contention that ocean acidification could limit oxygen carrying capacity in squids at warmer temperature leading to reduced activity levels or altered distribution.

  1. Control of 5-aminolaevulinate synthetase activity in Rhodopseudomonas spheroides. The involvement of sulphur metabolism

    PubMed Central

    Neuberger, Albert; Sandy, John D.; Tait, George H.

    1973-01-01

    1. The `initial' 5-aminolaevulinate synthetase activity, that is the activity observed immediately after cell disruption, in extracts prepared from unharvested semianaerobically grown Rhodopseudomonas spheroides, was twice that observed under the same assay conditions in extracts prepared from harvested cells. 2. The effect of oxygenation of a culture on the `maximum' aminolaevulinate synthetase activity, that is the activity observed 1h after disruption of harvested cells, is markedly influenced by the contents of the growth medium. Oxygenation of organisms for 1h in the medium in which they have grown produces an 80–90% decrease in maximum activity, whereas similar treatment of organisms resuspended in fresh medium produces less than a 40% decrease. 3. This protective effect of fresh medium is absolutely dependent on the presence of sulphate. When cells are suspended in sulphate-deficient fresh medium, the maximum activity falls by 65–75% even without oxygenation. A high maximum activity is regenerated when sulphate is resupplied. 4. When organisms are oxygenated in the medium in which they have grown, the cellular contents of GSH+GSSG and cysteine+cystine fall very markedly and homolanthionine is formed. Both the fall in aminolaevulinate synthetase activity and the changes in sulphur metabolism are largely prevented by the addition of compounds which stimulate synthesis of cysteine de novo or inhibit the conversion of cysteine S into homocysteine S. 5. The maximum aminolaevulinate synthetase activity was directly proportional to the GSH+GSSG content of all cell preparations. In glutathione-depleted extracts the `low'-activity enzyme could be re-activated in vitro by the addition of GSH, GSSG, cysteine or cystine, whereas in extracts with a high glutathione content the `high'-activity enzyme was unaffected by these sulphur compounds. 6. The activation of low-activity enzyme with exogenous sulphur compounds was prevented by excluding air or by adding NADH. Studies with purified enzyme indicate that sulphur compounds do not interact directly with the enzyme, but that their effect is mediated by a number of other endogenous factors. PMID:4544404

  2. Hydrothermally Driven Transformation of Oxygen Functional Groups at Multiwall Carbon Nanotubes for Improved Electrocatalytic Applications.

    PubMed

    Suryanto, Bryan H R; Chen, Sheng; Duan, Jingjing; Zhao, Chuan

    2016-12-28

    The role of carbon nanotubes in the advancement of energy conversion and storage technologies is undeniable. In particular, carbon nanotubes have attracted significant applications for electrocatalysis. However, one central issue related to the use of carbon nanotubes is the required oxidative pretreatment that often leads to significant damage of graphitic structures which deteriorates their electrochemical properties. Traditionally, the oxidized carbon nanomaterials are treated at high temperature under an inert atmosphere to repair the oxidation-induced defect sites, which simultaneously removes a significant number of oxygen functional groups. Nevertheless, recent studies have shown that oxygen functional groups on the surface of MWCNT are the essential active centers for a number of important electrocatalytic reactions such as hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Herein we first show that hydrothermal treatment as a mild method to improve the electrochemical properties and activities of surface-oxidized MWCNT for OER, HER, and ORR without significantly altering the oxygen content. The results indicate that hydrothermal treatment could potentially repair the defects without significantly reducing the pre-existing oxygen content, which has never been achieved before with conventional high-temperature annealing treatment.

  3. Performance Characteristics of Jet-type Generator of Singlet Oxygen for Supersonic Chemical Oxygen-Iodine Laser*1

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kodymová, Jarmila; Špalek, Otomar

    1998-01-01

    A jet-type singlet oxygen generator based on a gas-liquid chemical reaction yielding singlet oxygen, O2(1Δ g), for pumping the supersonic chemical oxygen-iodine laser was investigated. In addition to O2(1Δ g) and residual chlorine concentrations, a content of water formed during O2(1Δ g) generation was estimated (because of its detrimental effect on lasing) in gas flowing from the generator to the laser active region. The experimental conditions were determined under which an effect of liquid droplets escaping from the generator was negligible, and accordingly, a content of water vapour was suppressed to a value corresponding to the saturated water vapour pressure. It was also proved that a reduction in the relative water content, and a consequent increase in the laser output power, could be achieved by increasing peroxide and hydroxide concentration in the generator liquid, and by decreasing a liquid temperature and a total pressure in the generator.

  4. Reduction behavior and kinetics of vanadium-titanium sinters under high potential oxygen enriched pulverized coal injection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Jin-fang; Wang, Guang-wei; Zhang, Jian-liang; Li, Xin-yu; Liu, Zheng-jian; Jiao, Ke-xin; Guo, Jian

    2017-05-01

    In this work, the reduction behavior of vanadium-titanium sinters was studied under five different sets of conditions of pulverized coal injection with oxygen enrichment. The modified random pore model was established to analyze the reduction kinetics. The results show that the reduction rate of sinters was accelerated by an increase of CO and H2 contents. Meanwhile, with the increase in CO and H2 contents, the increasing range of the medium reduction index (MRE) of sinters decreased. The increasing oxygen enrichment ratio played a diminishing role in improving the reduction behavior of the sinters. The reducing process kinetic parameters were solved using the modified random role model. The results indicated that, with increasing oxygen enrichment, the contents of CO and H2 in the reducing gas increased. The reduction activation energy of the sinters decreased to between 20.4 and 23.2 kJ/mol.

  5. Predicting adsorption isotherms for aqueous organic micropollutants from activated carbon and pollutant properties.

    PubMed

    Li, Lei; Quinlivan, Patricia A; Knappe, Detlef R U

    2005-05-01

    A method based on the Polanyi-Dubinin-Manes (PDM) model is presented to predict adsorption isotherms of aqueous organic contaminants on activated carbons. It was assumed that trace organic compound adsorption from aqueous solution is primarily controlled by nonspecific dispersive interactions while water adsorption is controlled by specific interactions with oxygen-containing functional groups on the activated carbon surface. Coefficients describing the affinity of water for the activated carbon surface were derived from aqueous-phase methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) and trichloroethene (TCE) adsorption isotherm data that were collected with 12 well-characterized activated carbons. Over the range of oxygen contents covered by the adsorbents (approximately 0.8-10 mmol O/g dry, ash-free activated carbon), a linear relationship between water affinity coefficients and adsorbent oxygen content was obtained. Incorporating water affinity coefficients calculated from the developed relationship into the PDM model, isotherm predictions resulted that agreed well with experimental data for three adsorbents and two adsorbates [tetrachloroethene (PCE), cis-1,2-dichloroethene (DCE)] that were not used to calibrate the model.

  6. Biochar and lignite affect H+-ATPase and H+-PPase activities in root tonoplast and nutrient contents of mung bean under salt stress.

    PubMed

    Torabian, Shahram; Farhangi-Abriz, Salar; Rathjen, Judith

    2018-05-31

    This research was conducted to evaluate effects of biochar (50 and 100 g kg -1 soil) and lignite (50 and 100 g kg -1 soil) treatments on H + -ATPase and H + -PPase activity of root tonoplast, nutrient content, and performance of mung bean under salt stress. High saline conditions increased H + -ATPase and H + -PPase activities in root tonoplast, sodium (Na) content, reactive oxygen species (H 2 O 2 and O 2 - ) generation, relative electrolyte leakage (REL) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity in root and leaf, but decreased relative water content (RWC), chlorophyll content index, leaf area, potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) content of plant tissues, root and shoot dry weight of mung bean. Lignite and biochar treatments decreased the H + -ATPase and H + -PPase activities of root tonoplast under salt stress. Moreover, these treatments increased the cation exchange capacity of soil and nutrient values in plant tissues. Biochar and lignite diminished the generation of reactive oxygen species and DPPH activity in root and leaf cells, and these superior effects improved chlorophyll content index, leaf area and growth of mung bean under both conditions. In general, the results of this study demonstrated that biochar and lignite decreased the entry of Na ion into the cells, enriched plant cells with nutrients, and consequently improved mung bean performance under salt toxicity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  7. Influences of oxygen content on characteristics of atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge in argon/oxygen mixtures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fang, Zhi; Shao, Tao; Wang, Ruixue; Yang, Jing; Zhang, Cheng

    2016-04-01

    The dielectric barrier discharge generated in argon/oxygen mixtures at atmospheric pressure is investigated, and the effect of oxygen content on discharge characteristics at applied voltage of 4.5 kV is studied by means of electrical measurements and optical diagnostics. The results show that the filaments in the discharge regime become more densely packed with the increasing in the oxygen content, and the distribution of the filaments is more uniform in the gap. An increase in the oxygen content results in a decrease in the average power consumed and transported charges, while there exists an optimal value of oxygen content for the production of oxygen radicals. The maximal yield of oxygen radicals is obtained in mixtures of argon with 0.3% oxygen addition, and the oxygen radicals then decrease with the further increase in the oxygen content. The oxygen/argon plasma is employed to modify surface hydrophilicity of the PET films to estimate the influence of oxygen content on the surface treatment, and the static contact angles before and after the treatments are measured. The lowest contact angle is obtained at a 0.3% addition of oxygen to argon, which is in accordance with the optimum oxygen content for oxygen radicals generation. The electron density and electron temperature are estimated from the measured current and optical emission spectroscopy, respectively. The electron density is found to reduce significantly at a higher oxygen content due to the increased electron attachment, while the estimated electron temperature do not change apparently with the oxygen content. Contribution to the Topical Issue "Recent Breakthroughs in Microplasma Science and Technology", edited by Kurt Becker, Jose Lopez, David Staack, Klaus-Dieter Weltmann and Wei Dong Zhu.

  8. The preparation and characterization of La doped TiO 2 nanoparticles and their photocatalytic activity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liqiang, Jing; Xiaojun, Sun; Baifu, Xin; Baiqi, Wang; Weimin, Cai; Honggang, Fu

    2004-10-01

    In this paper, pure and La doped TiO2 nanoparticles with different La content were prepared by a sol-gel process using Ti (OC4H9)4 as raw material, and also were characterized by XRD, TG-DTA, TEM, XPS, DRS and Photoluminescence (PL) spectra. We mainly investigated the effects of calcining temperature and La content on the properties and the photocatalytic activity for degrading phenol of as-prepared TiO2 samples, and also discussed the relationships between PL spectra and photocatalytic activity as well as the mechanisms of La doping on TiO2 phase transformation. The results showed that La3+ did not enter into the crystal lattices of TiO2 and was uniformly dispersed onto TiO2 as the form of La2O3 particles with small size, which possibly made La dopant have a great inhibition on TiO2 phase transformation; La dopant did not give rise to a new PL signal, but it could improve the intensity of PL spectra with a appropriate La content, which was possibly attributed to the increase in the content of surface oxygen vacancies and defects after doping La; La doped TiO2 nanoparticles calcined at 600°C exhibited higher photocatalytic activity, indicating that 600°C was an appropriate calcination temperature. The order of photocatalytic activity of La doped TiO2 samples with different La content was as following: 1>1.5>3>0.5>5>0 mol%, which was the same as the order of their PL intensity, namely, the stronger the PL intensity, the higher the photocatalytic activity, demonstrating that there were certain relationships between PL spectra and photocatalytic activity. This could be explained by the points that PL spectra mainly resulted from surface oxygen vacancies and defects during the process of PL, while surface oxygen vacancies and defects could be favorable in capturing the photoinduced electrons during the process of photocatalytic reactions.

  9. Oxygen content tailored magnetic and electronic properties in cobaltite double perovskite thin films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Harrell, Zach John; Enriquez, Erik M.; Chen, Aiping

    Oxygen content in transition metal oxides is one of the most important parameters to control for the desired physical properties. Recently, we have systematically studied the oxygen content and property relationship of the double perovskite PrBaCo 2O 5.5+δ (PBCO) thin films deposited on the LaAlO 3 substrates. The oxygen content in the films was varied by in-situ annealing in a nitrogen, oxygen, or ozone environment. Associated with the oxygen content, the out-of-plane lattice parameter progressively decreases with increasing oxygen content in the films. The saturated magnetization shows a drastic increase and resistivity is significantly reduced in the ozone annealed samples,more » indicating the strong coupling between physical properties and oxygen content. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that the magnetic properties of PBCO films are highly dependent on the oxygen contents, or the film with higher oxygen uptake has the largest magnetization.« less

  10. Oxygen content tailored magnetic and electronic properties in cobaltite double perovskite thin films

    DOE PAGES

    Harrell, Zach John; Enriquez, Erik M.; Chen, Aiping; ...

    2017-02-27

    Oxygen content in transition metal oxides is one of the most important parameters to control for the desired physical properties. Recently, we have systematically studied the oxygen content and property relationship of the double perovskite PrBaCo 2O 5.5+δ (PBCO) thin films deposited on the LaAlO 3 substrates. The oxygen content in the films was varied by in-situ annealing in a nitrogen, oxygen, or ozone environment. Associated with the oxygen content, the out-of-plane lattice parameter progressively decreases with increasing oxygen content in the films. The saturated magnetization shows a drastic increase and resistivity is significantly reduced in the ozone annealed samples,more » indicating the strong coupling between physical properties and oxygen content. Furthermore, these results demonstrate that the magnetic properties of PBCO films are highly dependent on the oxygen contents, or the film with higher oxygen uptake has the largest magnetization.« less

  11. Water Quality: A Field-Based Quality Testing Program for Middle Schools and High Schools.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Massachusetts State Water Resources Authority, Boston.

    This manual contains background information, lesson ideas, procedures, data collection and reporting forms, suggestions for interpreting results, and extension activities to complement a water quality field testing program. Information on testing water temperature, water pH, dissolved oxygen content, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrates, total…

  12. [Effects of cadmium stress on fatty acid composition and lipid peroxidation of Malus hupehensis].

    PubMed

    You, Shu-Zhen; Yang, Hong-Qiang; Zhang, Long; Shao, Xiao-Jie

    2009-08-01

    This paper studied the fatty acid composition, reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the leaves and roots of Malus hupehensis seedlings under effects of cadmium (Cd) stress. Noticeable changes were observed in the kinds and relative contents of fatty acids after treated with CdCl2 for 7-12 hours. The relative contents of unsaturated fatty acids in leaves and roots reached the maximum after treated for 7 hours, being 82. 82% and 72. 43% , respectively. The kinds of fatty acids in leaves increased from 11 to 14 after treated for 12 hours, while those in roots increased from 4 to 6 after treated for 17 hours. The O2* generation rate and the H2O2 content reached the maximum after treated for 3 and 7 hours, respectively, and the MDA content and LOX activity increased with treating time. Cd stress altered the fatty acid composition of Malus hupehensis via the inducement of reactive oxygen species and lipoxygenase, and induced lipid peroxidation, which was caused by both ROS and LOX within the first 12 hours of CdCl2 treatment and mainly by the increase of LOX activity since then.

  13. Response of antioxidant system to drought stress and re-watering in Alfalfa during branching

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tina, R. R.; Shan, X. R.; Wang, Y.; Guo, S. Y.; Mao, B.; Wang, W.; Wu, H. Y.; Zhao, T. H.

    2017-11-01

    This paper aimed to reveal the response mechanism of active oxygen metabolism and antioxidant enzyme activities in Alfalfa under drought stress and re-watering, and the pot experiment was used, to explore the changes of H2O2, O2·-, electrolyte leakage conductivity and MDA, SOD, POD, CAT activity in Golden Empress (tolerant cultivar) and Sanditi (non-tolerant cultivar) under drought stress and re-watering during branching stage. Three water gradients were set up: CK (Maximum field capacity of 75%±5%), T1 (Maximum field capacity of 45%±5%), T2 (Maximum field capacity of 35%±5%) to compare, and the drought rehydration was also studied. Results: the results indicated that H2O2 content, O2·-production rate, relative conductivity and MDA content were higher than the control, and the increase extent of Golden Empress was higher than the Sanditi under drought stress and after re-watering the recovery capability of Golden Empress was also higher than the Sanditi. After 7 days of re-watering, all indexes were restored to the control level, indicating that the re-watering have compensation effect after drought. After drought stress, to weaken the damage of active oxygen Golden Empress was mainly by increasing the activity of POD and SOD, but Sanditi was mainly through the POD and CAT activity increased to effectively remove ROS. Under drought stress, active oxygen in leaves of Alfalfa increased, and thus the membrane system was damaged which lead to the increase of MDA content and relative electric conductivity. Plants play a defensive role by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes and scavenging reactive oxygen species. After re-watering, the stress effect was reduced, and the physiological indexes of plants were restored to the control level. In general, tolerant cultivar has stronger antioxidant properties under drought and re-watering.

  14. New Insights into How Increases in Fertility Improve the Growth of Rice at the Seedling Stage in Red Soil Regions of Subtropical China

    PubMed Central

    Li, Yilin; Shi, Weiming; Wang, Xingxiang

    2014-01-01

    The differences in rhizosphere nitrification activities between high- and low- fertility soils appear to be related to differences in dissolved oxygen concentrations in the soil, implying a relationship to differences in the radial oxygen loss (ROL) of rice roots in these soils. A miniaturised Clark-type oxygen microelectrode system was used to determine rice root ROL and the rhizosphere oxygen profile, and rhizosphere nitrification activity was studied using a short-term nitrification activity assay. Rice planting significantly altered the oxygen cycling in the water-soil system due to rice root ROL. Although the oxygen content in control high-fertility soil (without rice plants) was lower than that in control low-fertility soil, high rice root ROL significantly improved the rhizosphere oxygen concentration in the high-fertility soil. High soil fertility improved the rice root growth and root porosity as well as rice root ROL, resulting in enhanced rhizosphere nitrification. High fertility also increased the content of nitrification-induced nitrate in the rhizosphere, resulting in enhanced ammonium uptake and assimilation in the rice. Although high ammonium pools in the high-fertility soil increased rhizosphere nitrification, rice root ROL might also contribute to rhizosphere nitrification improvement. This study provides new insights into the reasons that an increase in soil fertility may enhance the growth of rice. Our results suggest that an amendment of the fertiliser used in nutrient- and nitrification-poor paddy soils in the red soil regions of China may significantly promote rice growth and rice N nutrition. PMID:25291182

  15. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Twu, Nancy; Metzger, Michael; Balasubramanian, Mahalingam

    Here, the lithium-excess Li xNi 2-4x/3Sb x/3O 2 (LNSO) materials were previously shown to demonstrate higher capacities and improved cyclability with increasing lithium content. While the performance trend is promising, observed capacities are much lower than theoretical capacities, pointing to a need for further understanding of active redox processes in these materials. In this work, we study the electrochemical behavior of the LNSO materials as a function of lithium content and at slow and fast rates. Surprisingly, Li 1.15Ni 0.47Sb 0.38O 2 (LNSO-15) exhibits higher discharge capacities at faster rates and traverses distinct voltage curves at slow and fast rates.more » To understand these two peculiarities, we characterize the redox activity of nickel, antimony, and oxygen at different rates. While experiments confirm some nickel redox activity and oxygen loss, these two mechanisms cannot account for all observed capacity. We propose that the balance of the observed capacity may be due reversible oxygen redox and that the rate-dependent voltage curve features may derive from irreversible nickel migration occurring on slow charge. As future high energy density cathodes are likely to contain both lithium excess and high nickel content, both of these findings have important implications for the development of novel high capacity cathode materials.« less

  16. MO-Co@N-Doped Carbon (M = Zn or Co): Vital Roles of Inactive Zn and Highly Efficient Activity toward Oxygen Reduction/Evolution Reactions for Rechargeable Zn-Air Battery

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chen, Biaohua; He, Xiaobo; Yin, Fengxiang

    A highly efficient bifunctional oxygen catalyst is required for practical applications of fuel cells and metal-air batteries, as oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are their core electrode reactions. Here, the MO-Co@ N-doped carbon (NC, M = Zn or Co) is developed as a highly active ORR/OER bifunctional catalyst via pyrolysis of a bimetal metal-organic framework containing Zn and Co, i.e., precursor (CoZn). The vital roles of inactive Zn in developing highly active bifunctional oxygen catalysts are unraveled. When the precursors include Zn, the surface contents of pyridinic N for ORR and the surface contents of Co-N-xmore » and Co3+/Co2+ ratios for OER are enhanced, while the high specific surface areas, high porosity, and high electrochemical active surface areas are also achieved. Furthermore, the synergistic effects between Zn-based and Co-based species can promote the well growth of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at high pyrolysis temperatures (>= 700 degrees C), which is favorable for charge transfer. The optimized CoZn-NC-700 shows the highly bifunctional ORR/OER activity and the excellent durability during the ORR/OER processes, even better than 20 wt% Pt/C (for ORR) and IrO2 (for OER). CoZn-NC-700 also exhibits the prominent Zn-air battery performance and even outperforms the mixture of 20 wt% Pt/C and IrO2.« less

  17. Welding of 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel with Activated Tungsten Inert Gas Process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmadi, E.; Ebrahimi, A. R.

    2015-02-01

    The use of activating flux in TIG welding process is one of the most notable techniques which are developed recently. This technique, known as A-TIG welding, increases the penetration depth and improves the productivity of the TIG welding. In the present study, four oxide fluxes (SiO2, TiO2, Cr2O3, and CaO) were used to investigate the effect of activating flux on the depth/width ratio and mechanical property of 316L austenitic stainless steel. The effect of coating density of activating flux on the weld pool shape and oxygen content in the weld after the welding process was studied systematically. Experimental results indicated that the maximum depth/width ratio of stainless steel activated TIG weld was obtained when the coating density was 2.6, 1.3, 2, and 7.8 mg/cm2 for SiO2, TiO2, Cr2O3, and CaO, respectively. The certain range of oxygen content dissolved in the weld, led to a significant increase in the penetration capability of TIG welds. TIG welding with active fluxes can increase the delta-ferrite content and improves the mechanical strength of the welded joint.

  18. Highly resolved imaging at the soil - plant root interface: A combination of fluorescence imaging and neutron radiography

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rudolph, N.; Oswald, S. E.; Lehmann, E.

    2012-12-01

    This study represents a novel experimental set up to non-invasivley map the gradients of biogeochemical parameters at the soil -root interface of plants in situ. The patterns of oxygen, pH and the soil water content distribution were mapped in high resolution with a combination of fluorescence imaging and neutron radiography. Measuring the real-time distribution of water, pH and oxygen concentration would enable us to locate the active parts of the roots in respect to water uptake, exudation and respiration. Roots performance itself is variable as a function of age and development stage and is interrelated with local soil conditions such as water and oxygen availability or nutrients and pH buffering capacity in soil. Non-destructive imaging methods such as fluorescence and neutron imaging have provided a unique opportunity to unravel some of these complex processes. Thin glass containers (inner size 10cm x 10cm x 1.5 cm) were filled with 2 different sandy soils. Sensor foil for O2 and pH were installed on the inner-sides of the containers. We grew lupine plants in the container under controlled conditions until the root system was developed. Growing plants at different stages prior to the imaging experiment, we took neutron radiographs and fluorescence images of 10-day old and 30-day old root systems of lupine plants over a range of soil water contents, and therefore a range of root activities and oxygen changes. We observed the oxygen consumption pattern, the pH changes, and the root water uptake of lupine plants over the course of several days. We observed a higher respiration activity around the lateral roots than for the tap root. The oxygen depletion zones around the roots extended to farther distances after each rewatering of the samples. Root systems of the plants were mapped from the neutron radiograps. Close association of the roots distribution and the the location of oxygen depletion patterns provided evidence that this effect was caused by roots. The oxygen deficit pattern intensified with increasing root age. Due to the high soil water content after rewatering, the aeration from atmosphere was limited. pH dynamic was closely related to the root age. Initially, the soil pH strongly decreased around the young growing tap root. This pattern changed with time to an increased pH around the tap root but a strong acidification in the vicinity of lateral roots. After each rewatering, the pH increased which might be due to the dilution of H+ in high soil water contents. With our coupled imaging set up we were able to monitor the dynamics of oxygen, pH and water content around the roots of plant with high spatial and temporal resolutions over day and night at a wide range of soil water contents. Our experimental set up provides the opportunity to simultaneousely map the dynamics of these vital parameters in the root zone of plants.

  19. High electrochemical capacitor performance of oxygen and nitrogen enriched activated carbon derived from the pyrolysis and activation of squid gladius chitin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Raj, C. Justin; Rajesh, Murugesan; Manikandan, Ramu; Yu, Kook Hyun; Anusha, J. R.; Ahn, Jun Hwan; Kim, Dong-Won; Park, Sang Yeup; Kim, Byung Chul

    2018-05-01

    Activated carbon containing nitrogen functionalities exhibits excellent electrochemical property which is more interesting for several renewable energy storage and catalytic applications. Here, we report the synthesis of microporous oxygen and nitrogen doped activated carbon utilizing chitin from the gladius of squid fish. The activated carbon has large surface area of 1129 m2 g-1 with microporous network and possess ∼4.04% of nitrogen content in the form of pyridinic/pyrrolic-N, graphitic-N and N-oxide groups along with oxygen and carbon species. The microporous oxygen/nitrogen doped activated carbon is utilize for the fabrication of aqueous and flexible supercapacitor electrodes, which presents excellent electrochemical performance with maximum specific capacitance of 204 Fg-1 in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte and 197 Fg-1 as a flexible supercapacitor. Moreover, the device displays 100% of specific capacitance retention after 25,000 subsequent charge/discharge cycles in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte.

  20. [Development of Sediment Micro-Interface Under Physical and Chironomus plumosus Combination Disturbance].

    PubMed

    Wang, Ren; Li, Da-peng; Huang, Yong; Liu, Yan-jian; Chen, Jun

    2015-11-01

    Synergistic effect of physical and Chironomus plumosus combination disturbance on the characteristics of the micro-environment and micro-interface was investigated by the Rhizon samplers and Unisense micro sensor system. The results showed that the oxygen penetration depth (OPD), total oxygen exchange (TOE), water content and total microbial activity increased under the combination disturbance and bioturbation and were kept at the higher level, compared with the control. These parameters increased with the physical intensity under combination disturbance. However, the content of Fe2+ decreased under the combination disturbance and bioturbation and the decrease was more obvious than that in the control. The changes of the Fe2+, the water content and the total microbial activity were large at 0-4 cm depth in the sediments. Therefore, the area might be the active area for the transformation of internal sedimentary phosphorus forms. The curve fitting was used for the OPD, TOE, the content of Fe2+, the water content and the total microbial activity with the physical intensity under combination disturbance. It was observed that the second-order polynomial equation was suitable for the curve fitting. In addition, jump type synergistic effect was presented in the above mentioned parameters under combination disturbance when the physical intensity was higher than 34 r x min(-1). The remodeling on the sediment micro-interface and micro-environment might be the main inducing mechanism for the transformation of internal phosphorus.

  1. Transforming waste biomass with an intrinsically porous network structure into porous nitrogen-doped graphene for highly efficient oxygen reduction.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Huang; Zhang, Jian; Amiinu, Ibrahim Saana; Zhang, Chenyu; Liu, Xiaobo; Tu, Wenmao; Pan, Mu; Mu, Shichun

    2016-04-21

    Porous nitrogen-doped graphene with a very high surface area (1152 m(2) g(-1)) is synthesized by a novel strategy using intrinsically porous biomass (soybean shells) as a carbon and nitrogen source via calcination and KOH activation. To redouble the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity by tuning the doped-nitrogen content and type, ammonia (NH3) is injected during thermal treatment. Interestingly, this biomass-derived graphene catalyst exhibits the unique properties of mesoporosity and high pyridine-nitrogen content, which contribute to the excellent oxygen reduction performance. As a result, the onset and half-wave potentials of the new metal-free non-platinum catalyst reach -0.009 V and -0.202 V (vs. SCE), respectively, which is very close to the catalytic activity of the commercial Pt/C catalyst in alkaline media. Moreover, our catalyst has a higher ORR stability and stronger CO and CH3OH tolerance than Pt/C in alkaline media. Importantly, in acidic media, the catalyst also exhibits good ORR performance and higher ORR stability compared to Pt/C.

  2. Establishment of a total liquid ventilation system using saline-based oxygen micro/nano-bubble dispersions in rats.

    PubMed

    Kakiuchi, Kenta; Matsuda, Kenichi; Harii, Norikazu; Sou, Keitaro; Aoki, Junko; Takeoka, Shinji

    2015-09-01

    Micro/nano-bubbles are practical nanomaterials designed to increase the gas content in liquids. We attempted to use oxygen micro/nano-bubble dispersions as an oxygen-rich liquid as a means for total liquid ventilation. To determine the oxygen content in the bubble dispersion, a new method based on a spectrophotometric change between oxy- and deoxy-hemoglobin was established. The oxygen micro/nano-bubble dispersion was supplied to an experimental total ventilation liquid in anesthetic rats. Though the amount of dissolving oxygen was as low as 6 mg/L in physiological saline, the oxygen content in the oxygen micro/nano-bubble dispersion was increased to 45 mg/L. The positive correlation between the oxygen content and the life-saving time under liquid ventilation clearly indicates that the life-saving time is prolonged by increasing the oxygen content in the oxygen micro/nano-bubble dispersion. This is the first report indicating that the oxygen micro/nano-bubbles containing a sufficient amount of oxygen are useful in producing oxygen-rich liquid for the process of liquid ventilation.

  3. Blood modulates the kinetics of reactive oxygen release in pancreatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.

    PubMed

    Neeff, Hannes P; Sommer, Olaf; Meyer, Sebastian; Tinelli, Anja; Scholtes, Moritz; Hopt, Ulrich T; Drognitz, Oliver; von Dobschuetz, Ernst

    2012-10-01

    Reason for the unsuccessful use of antioxidants in transplantation might be the unknown kinetics of reactive oxygen species (ROS) release. In this study, we compared the kinetics of ROS release from rat pancreata in the presence and absence of blood. In vivo, ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) was induced in pancreata of male Wistar rats by occlusion of the arterial blood supply for 1 or 2 hours. In vitro, isolated pancreata were single-pass perfused with Krebs-Henseleit bicarbonate solution. Reactive oxygen species were quantified by electron spin resonance spectroscopy using CMH (1-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine) as spin label. Thiols (glutathione), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase activity, myeloperoxidase activity, and adenosine triphosphate content were measured. During reperfusion, an increase in IRI-induced ROS in arterial blood was noted after 2 hours of warm ischemia. In sharp contrast, ROS release was immediate and short lived in blood-free perfused organs. The degree of tissue damage correlated with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidase activity and adenosine triphosphate content. Antioxidative capacity of tissues was reduced. Electron spin resonance spectroscopy in conjunction with spin labels allows for the detection of ROS kinetics in pancreatic IRI. Reactive oxygen species kinetics are dependent on the length of the ischemic period and the presence or absence of blood.

  4. Lowering Temperature is the Trigger for Glycogen Build-Up and Winter Fasting in Crucian Carp (Carassius carassius).

    PubMed

    Varis, Joonas; Haverinen, Jaakko; Vornanen, Matti

    2016-02-01

    Seasonal changes in physiology of vertebrate animals are triggered by environmental cues including temperature, day-length and oxygen availability. Crucian carp (Carassius carassius) tolerate prolonged anoxia in winter by using several physiological adaptations that are seasonally activated. This study examines which environmental cues are required to trigger physiological adjustments for winter dormancy in crucian carp. To this end, crucian carp were exposed to changing environmental factors under laboratory conditions: effects of declining water temperature, shortening day-length and reduced oxygen availability, separately and in different combinations, were examined on glycogen content and enzyme activities involved in feeding (alkaline phosphatase, AP) and glycogen metabolism (glycogen synthase, GyS; glycogen phosphorylase, GP). Lowering temperature induced a fall in activity of AP and a rise in glycogen content and rate of glycogen synthesis. Relative mass of the liver, and glycogen concentration of liver, muscle and brain increased with lowering temperature. Similarly activity of GyS in muscle and expression of GyS transcripts in brain were up-regulated by lowering temperature. Shortened day-length and oxygen availability had practically no effects on measured variables. We conclude that lowering temperature is the main trigger in preparation for winter anoxia in crucian carp.

  5. Influence of iron doping on tetravalent nickel content in catalytic oxygen evolving films

    PubMed Central

    Li, Nancy; Bediako, D. Kwabena; Hadt, Ryan G.; Hayes, Dugan; Kempa, Thomas J.; von Cube, Felix; Bell, David C.; Chen, Lin X.; Nocera, Daniel G.

    2017-01-01

    Iron doping of nickel oxide films results in enhanced activity for promoting the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Whereas this enhanced activity has been ascribed to a unique iron site within the nickel oxide matrix, we show here that Fe doping influences the Ni valency. The percent of Fe3+ doping promotes the formation of formal Ni4+, which in turn directly correlates with an enhanced activity of the catalyst in promoting OER. The role of Fe3+ is consistent with its behavior as a superior Lewis acid. PMID:28137835

  6. Influence of iron doping on tetravalent nickel content in catalytic oxygen evolving films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Nancy; Bediako, D. Kwabena; Hadt, Ryan G.

    2017-01-30

    Iron doping of nickel oxide films results in enhanced activity for promoting the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Whereas this enhanced activity has been ascribed to a unique iron site within the nickel oxide matrix, we show here that Fe doping influences the Ni valency. The percent of Fe3+ doping promotes the formation of formal Ni4+, which in turn directly correlates with an enhanced activity of the catalyst in promoting OER. The role of Fe3+ is consistent with its behavior as a superior Lewis acid.

  7. Strain-Engineered Oxygen Vacancies in CaMnO3 Thin Films.

    PubMed

    Chandrasena, Ravini U; Yang, Weibing; Lei, Qingyu; Delgado-Jaime, Mario U; Wijesekara, Kanishka D; Golalikhani, Maryam; Davidson, Bruce A; Arenholz, Elke; Kobayashi, Keisuke; Kobata, Masaaki; de Groot, Frank M F; Aschauer, Ulrich; Spaldin, Nicola A; Xi, Xiaoxing; Gray, Alexander X

    2017-02-08

    We demonstrate a novel pathway to control and stabilize oxygen vacancies in complex transition-metal oxide thin films. Using atomic layer-by-layer pulsed laser deposition (PLD) from two separate targets, we synthesize high-quality single-crystalline CaMnO 3 films with systematically varying oxygen vacancy defect formation energies as controlled by coherent tensile strain. The systematic increase of the oxygen vacancy content in CaMnO 3 as a function of applied in-plane strain is observed and confirmed experimentally using high-resolution soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) in conjunction with bulk-sensitive hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy (HAXPES). The relevant defect states in the densities of states are identified and the vacancy content in the films quantified using the combination of first-principles theory and core-hole multiplet calculations with holistic fitting. Our findings open up a promising avenue for designing and controlling new ionically active properties and functionalities of complex transition-metal oxides via strain-induced oxygen-vacancy formation and ordering.

  8. Strain-induced oxygen vacancies in ultrathin epitaxial CaMnO3 films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chandrasena, Ravini; Yang, Weibing; Lei, Qingyu; Delgado-Jaime, Mario; de Groot, Frank; Arenholz, Elke; Kobayashi, Keisuke; Aschauer, Ulrich; Spaldin, Nicola; Xi, Xiaoxing; Gray, Alexander

    Dynamic control of strain-induced ionic defects in transition-metal oxides is considered to be an exciting new avenue towards creating materials with novel electronic, magnetic and structural properties. Here we use atomic layer-by-layer laser molecular beam epitaxy to synthesize high-quality ultrathin single-crystalline CaMnO3 films with systematically varying coherent tensile strain. We then utilize a combination of high-resolution soft x-ray absorption spectroscopy and bulk-sensitive hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy in conjunction with first-principles theory and core-hole multiplet calculations to establish a direct link between the coherent in-plane strain and the oxygen-vacancy content. We show that the oxygen vacancies are highly mobile, which necessitates an in-situ-grown capping layer in order to preserve the original strain-induced oxygen-vacancy content. Our findings open the door for designing and controlling new ionically active properties in strongly-correlated transition-metal oxides.

  9. Eclipta yellow vein virus enhances chlorophyll destruction, singlet oxygen production and alters endogenous redox status in Andrographis paniculata.

    PubMed

    Khan, Asifa; Luqman, Suaib; Masood, Nusrat; Singh, Dhananjay Kumar; Saeed, Sana Tabanda; Samad, Abdul

    2016-07-01

    The infection of Eclipta yellow vein virus [EcYVV-IN, Accession No. KC476655], recently reported for the first time, on Andrographis paniculata was studied for redox-mediated alteration mechanism in infected plants. A. paniculata, an important medicinal plant, is used in traditional Indian, Chinese and modern system of medicine. Andrographolide, one of the foremost components of this plant, is known for its varied pharmacological properties. Our investigation provides insight into the effect of virus-induced changes in the singlet oxygen quenching due to the alteration in pigment content (chlorophyll and carotenoids) as well as activation of plant secondary metabolism along with defense activation leading to changes in enzymatic and non-enzymatic redox status. Due to infection, a reduction in carotenoid content was observed which leads to reduced quenching of singlet oxygen. An increased level of enzymatic (SOD and APX) and non-enzymatic antioxidant (DPPH, FRAP, RP, NO, TAC and TP) activities were also observed in virus-infected plants with a positive correlation (>0.9). However, CAT activity was diminished which could be either due to its proteolytic degradation or inactivation by superoxide anions (O(2-.)), NO or peroxynitrite radicals. A significant (p < 0.05) increase in total phenolic content was observed in the infected plants while no considerable difference was seen in the total flavonoid content. Our results highlighted the alteration in redox status caused by virus-induced biotic stress on the plants and could be useful for understanding the after effects of viral infection This study could also be helpful in developing biomimetic methods for improving the production of secondary metabolites of pharmaceutical importance. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  10. Effects of Environmental Oxygen Content and Dissolved Oxygen on the Surface Tension and Viscosity of Liquid Nickel

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    SanSoucie, M. P.; Rogers, J. R.; Kumar, V.; Rodriguez, J.; Xiao, X.; Matson, D. M.

    2016-07-01

    The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's electrostatic levitation (ESL) laboratory has recently added an oxygen partial pressure controller. This system allows the oxygen partial pressure within the vacuum chamber to be measured and controlled in the range from approximately 10^{-28} {to} 10^{-9} bar, while in a vacuum atmosphere. The oxygen control system installed in the ESL laboratory's main chamber consists of an oxygen sensor, oxygen pump, and a control unit. The sensor is a potentiometric device that determines the difference in oxygen activity in two gas compartments (inside the chamber and the air outside of the chamber) separated by an electrolyte. The pump utilizes coulometric titration to either add or remove oxygen. The system is controlled by a desktop control unit, which can also be accessed via a computer. The controller performs temperature control for the sensor and pump, has a PID-based current loop and a control algorithm. Oxygen partial pressure has been shown to play a significant role in the surface tension of liquid metals. Oxide films or dissolved oxygen may lead to significant changes in surface tension. The effects on surface tension and viscosity by oxygen partial pressure in the surrounding environment and the melt dissolved oxygen content will be evaluated, and the results will be presented. The surface tension and viscosity will be measured at several different oxygen partial pressures while the sample is undercooled. Surface tension and viscosity will be measured using the oscillating droplet method.

  11. Restoration of the Baltic Proper to a system in equilibrium with the external phosphorus supply in the presence of huge sustained internal supply connected to anoxic bottoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stigebrandt, Anders

    2015-04-01

    The phosphorus (P) content of the water column of the Baltic Proper has increased by 20 % since the 1980s in spite of a simultaneous reduction by 50 % of the external supply from land-based human activities and runoff. A simple budget model explains that the increased P content is a result of sustained leakage of P from anoxic bottoms. At the present, the internal P supply from anoxic bottoms is about three times greater than the external supply. Restoration of the Baltic Proper to a less eutrophic state obviously requires that the internal source vanishes which requires that the deepwater is kept oxygenated during a long period. This will not likely happen by natural processes as long as the oxygen consumption in the deepwater is high due to high P content and high biological production in the water column. One might therefore consider man-made oxygenation to keep the deepwater bottoms oxygenated. In the presentation positive and negative effects of man-made oxygenation of the Baltic Proper are discussed based on recently published results from a pilot experiment in the Swedish By Fjord and from analyses of physical, ecological and biogeochemical conditions in the Baltic Proper.

  12. Streamflow and nutrient dependence of temperature effects on dissolved oxygen in low-order forest streams

    Treesearch

    April Mason; Y. Jun Xu; Philip Saksa; Adrienne Viosca; Johnny M. Grace; John Beebe; Richard Stich

    2007-01-01

    Low dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in streams can be linked to both natural conditions and human activities. In Louisiana, natural stream conditions such as low flow, high temperature and high organic content, often result in DO levels already below current water quality criteria, making it difficult to develop standards for Best Management Practices (BMPs)....

  13. Nitrogen-doped graphene prepared by a transfer doping approach for the oxygen reduction reaction application

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mo, Zaiyong; Zheng, Ruiping; Peng, Hongliang; Liang, Huagen; Liao, Shijun

    2014-01-01

    Well defined nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) is prepared by a transfer doping approach, in which the graphene oxide (GO) is deoxidized and nitrogen doped by the vaporized polyaniline, and the GO is prepared by a thermal expansion method from graphite oxide. The content of doped nitrogen in the doped graphene is high up to 6.25 at% by the results of elements analysis, and oxygen content is lowered to 5.17 at%. As a non-precious metal cathode electrocatalyst, the NG catalyst exhibits excellent activity toward the oxygen reduction reaction, as well as excellent tolerance toward methanol. In 0.1 M KOH solution, its onset potential, half-wave potential and limiting current density for the oxygen reduction reaction reach 0.98 V (vs. RHE), 0.87 V (vs. RHE) and 5.38 mA cm-2, respectively, which are comparable to those of commercial 20 wt% Pt/C catalyst. The well defined graphene structure of the catalyst is revealed clearly by HRTEM and Raman spectra. It is suggested that the nitrogen-doping and large surface area of the NG sheets give the main contribution to the high ORR catalytic activity.

  14. [Long-term expansion of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells under reduced oxygen tension].

    PubMed

    Rylova, Iu V; Buravkova, L B

    2013-01-01

    We have shown that the decrease in oxygen tension in the culture medium of multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MMSCs) results in a short-term reduction in the proportion of CD73(+)-cells in the population, without effecting the number of cells expressing other constitutive surface markers (CD90 and CD105). In this case, the heterogeneity of the cell population declined: large spread cells disappeared. The proliferative activity of MMSCs significantly increased and remained stable in conditions in which the oxygen content was close to the tissue oxygen levels (5% O2). At lower oxygen concentration, proliferative activity of the cells gradually reduced from passages 3-4. The increase in proliferative activity was not accompanied by increased expression of telomerase gene indicateding the alsance of cell transformation. However, genome-wide analysis of MMSC gene expression level revealed changes in expression of cyclins (CCND2 and PCNA), regulatory subunit cyclin-dependent kinase (CKS2) and an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDKN2C), regulating the cell cycle, which is obviously facilitated the increase in the proliferative capacity of cells at lower oxygen tension.

  15. Oxygen storage properties and catalytic activity of layer-ordered perovskites BaY 1-xGd xMn 2O 5+δ

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Klimkowicz, A.; Świerczek, K.; Rząsa, T.

    2016-05-01

    Crystal structure, oxygen storage-related and preliminary anaerobic methane combustion studies were conducted for BaY 1-xGd xMn 2O 5+δ (0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1) series of oxides prepared by a sol–gel method. All samples were found to possess layered-type A-site cation ordering, with the unit cell volume linearly dependent on the average radius of Y 1-xGd x for both the reduced and the oxidized materials. The oxygen content in the temperature range of 400 °C–600 °C indicates change on the order of 1 atomic mole, occurring when the sample's surrounding atmosphere was changed from air to 5 vol.% H 2more » in Ar. The time dependence of the reduction shows activated character on temperature, with an activation energy, which seems to be related to the oxygen diffusion in the bulk of the materials. Initial data concerning methane combustion in oxygen-free conditions show promising catalytic activity of BaYMn 2O 6 at elevated temperatures.« less

  16. Temperature-dependent endogenous oxygen concentration regulates microsomal oleate desaturase in developing sunflower seeds.

    PubMed

    Rolletschek, Hardy; Borisjuk, Ljudmilla; Sánchez-García, Alicia; Gotor, Cecilia; Romero, Luis C; Martínez-Rivas, José M; Mancha, Manuel

    2007-01-01

    Oleoyl-phosphatidylcholine desaturase (FAD2) is a key enzyme involved in fatty acid desaturation in oilseeds, which is affected by environmental temperature. The results of this study show that FAD2 is regulated in vivo via temperature-dependent endogenous oxygen concentrations in developing sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) seeds. By combining in vivo oxygen profiling, in situ hybridization of FAD2 genes, an assay of energy status, fatty acid analysis, and an in vitro FAD2 enzyme activity assay, it is shown that: (i) the oil-storing embryo is characterized by a very low oxygen level that is developmentally regulated. Oxygen supply is mainly limited by the thin seed coat. (ii) Elevations of external oxygen supply raised the energy status of seed and produced a dramatic increase of the FAD2 enzyme activity as well as the linoleic acid content. (iii) A clear negative correlation exists between temperature and internal oxygen concentration. The changes occurred almost instantly and the effect was fully reversible. The results indicate that the internal oxygen level acts as a key regulator for the activity of the FAD2 enzyme. It is concluded that a major mechanism by which temperature modifies the unsaturation degree of the sunflower oil is through its effect on dissolved oxygen levels in the developing seed.

  17. The oxygen content of the high-temperature superconducting compound Bi(2+x)Sr(3-y)CayCu2O(8+d) with respect to varying Ca and Bi contents

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Majewski, P.; Su, H.-L.; Aldinger, F.

    1995-01-01

    The oxygen content of Bi(2+x)Sr(3-y)Cu2O(8+d) (2212 phase) has been determined as a function of its cation concentration. With increasing Ca and Bi content the oxygen content increases and T(sub c) decreases. The oxygen content of Ca rich 2212 phase increases with decreasing annealing temperatures. The study shows that the T(sub c) of the 2212 phase primarily is controlled by its cation concentration.

  18. A study of ignition of metal impregnated carbons: the influence of oxygen content in the activated carbon matrix.

    PubMed

    van der Merwe, M M; Bandosz, T J

    2005-02-01

    A study of the reason for the early ignition of coconut-based impregnated carbon in comparison with the peat-based impregnated carbon was conducted. The surface features of carbons were evaluated using various physicochemical methods. The metal analysis of the initial carbon indicated that the content of potassium was higher in the coconut-based carbon. The surface functional group analysis revealed the presence of similar surface species; however, the peat-based carbon was more acidic in its chemical nature. Since the oxygen content was higher in the peat-based carbon, the early ignition of the coconut-based material was attributed to its higher affinity to chemisorb oxygen, which leads to exothermic effects. This conclusion was confirmed by performing oxidation of coconut-based carbon prior to impregnation. This process increased the ignition temperature for Cu/Cr impregnated coconut-based material from 186 to 289 degrees C and for the Cu/Zn/Mo impregnated carbon from 235 to 324 degrees C.

  19. Citrate gel synthesis of aluminum-doped lithium lanthanum titanate solid electrolyte for application in organic-type lithium-oxygen batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Le, Hang T. T.; Kalubarme, Ramchandra S.; Ngo, Duc Tung; Jang, Seong-Yong; Jung, Kyu-Nam; Shin, Kyoung-Hee; Park, Chan-Jin

    2015-01-01

    Aluminium doped lithium lanthanum titanate (A-LLTO) powders with various excess Li2O content are synthesized using a simple citrate gel method. The obtained A-LLTO powders show an agglomerated form, composed of nano-sized particles of 20-50 nm. The morphology and conductivity of the A-LLTO ceramics are largely affected by the content of excess Li2O. The highest total ionic conductivity of 3.17 × 10-4 S cm-1 is achieved for the A-LLTO sample containing 20% excess Li2O, exhibiting a vacancy content of 6%, and a total activation energy of 0.358 eV. The A-LLTO can act as a membrane to protect lithium metal from oxygen and other contaminants diffused through the oxygen electrode part. The Li-O2 cell employing the A-LLTO solid electrolyte shows a good cycle life of longer than 100 discharge-charge cycles, under the constant capacity mode of 300 mAh g-1.

  20. Activity Descriptor Identification for Oxygen Reduction on Platinum-Based Bimetallic Nanoparticles: In Situ Observation of the Linear Composition–Strain–Activity Relationship

    PubMed Central

    2016-01-01

    Despite recent progress in developing active and durable oxygen reduction catalysts with reduced Pt content, lack of elegant bottom-up synthesis procedures with knowledge over the control of atomic arrangement and morphology of the Pt–alloy catalysts still hinders fuel cell commercialization. To follow a less empirical synthesis path for improved Pt-based catalysts, it is essential to correlate catalytic performance to properties that can be easily controlled and measured experimentally. Herein, using Pt–Co alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with varying atomic composition as an example, we show that the atomic distribution of Pt-based bimetallic NPs under operating conditions is strongly dependent on the initial atomic ratio by employing microscopic and in situ spectroscopic techniques. The PtxCo/C NPs with high Co content possess a Co concentration gradient such that Co is concentrated in the core and gradually depletes in the near-surface region, whereas the PtxCo/C NPs with low Co content possess a relatively uniform distribution of Co with low Co population in the near-surface region. Despite their different atomic structure, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of PtxCo/C and Pt/C NPs is linearly related to the bulk average Pt–Pt bond length (RPt–Pt). The RPt–Pt is further shown to contract linearly with the increase in Co/Pt composition. These linear correlations together demonstrate that (i) the improved ORR activity of PtxCo/C NPs over pure Pt NPs originates predominantly from the compressive strain and (ii) the RPt–Pt is a valid strain descriptor that bridges the activity and atomic composition of Pt-based bimetallic NPs. PMID:25559440

  1. Activity descriptor identification for oxygen reduction on platinum-based bimetallic nanoparticles: in situ observation of the linear composition-strain-activity relationship.

    PubMed

    Jia, Qingying; Liang, Wentao; Bates, Michael K; Mani, Prasanna; Lee, Wendy; Mukerjee, Sanjeev

    2015-01-27

    Despite recent progress in developing active and durable oxygen reduction catalysts with reduced Pt content, lack of elegant bottom-up synthesis procedures with knowledge over the control of atomic arrangement and morphology of the Pt-alloy catalysts still hinders fuel cell commercialization. To follow a less empirical synthesis path for improved Pt-based catalysts, it is essential to correlate catalytic performance to properties that can be easily controlled and measured experimentally. Herein, using Pt-Co alloy nanoparticles (NPs) with varying atomic composition as an example, we show that the atomic distribution of Pt-based bimetallic NPs under operating conditions is strongly dependent on the initial atomic ratio by employing microscopic and in situ spectroscopic techniques. The PtxCo/C NPs with high Co content possess a Co concentration gradient such that Co is concentrated in the core and gradually depletes in the near-surface region, whereas the PtxCo/C NPs with low Co content possess a relatively uniform distribution of Co with low Co population in the near-surface region. Despite their different atomic structure, the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of PtxCo/C and Pt/C NPs is linearly related to the bulk average Pt-Pt bond length (RPt-Pt). The RPt-Pt is further shown to contract linearly with the increase in Co/Pt composition. These linear correlations together demonstrate that (i) the improved ORR activity of PtxCo/C NPs over pure Pt NPs originates predominantly from the compressive strain and (ii) the RPt-Pt is a valid strain descriptor that bridges the activity and atomic composition of Pt-based bimetallic NPs.

  2. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Iisa, Kristiina; French, Richard J.; Orton, Kellene A.

    Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) bio-oils with different organic oxygen contents (4-18 wt%) were prepared in a bench-scale dual fluidized bed reactor system by ex situ CFP of southern pine over HZSM-5, and the oils were subsequently hydrotreated over a sulfided CoMo catalyst at 170 bar. The goal was to determine the impact of the CFP oil oxygen content on hydrotreating requirements. The CFP oils with higher oxygen contents included a variety of oxygenates (phenols, methoxyphenols, carbonyls, anhydrosugars) whereas oxygenates in the 4 wt% oxygen oil were almost exclusively phenols. Phenols were the most recalcitrant oxygenates during hydrotreating as well, andmore » the hydrotreated oils consisted mainly of aromatic and partially saturated ring hydrocarbons. The temperature required to produce oil with <1% oxygen was approximately 350 °C for the CFP oil with the lowest oxygen content whereas temperatures around 400 °C were required for the other CFP oils. The carbon efficiency during hydrotreating slightly decreased as the CFP oil oxygen content increased but remained above 90% in all cases, and the carbon efficiency for the integrated process was dominated by the efficiency of the CFP process. In conclusion, a preliminary technoeconomic evaluation suggested that with the current zeolite-based CFP catalysts, it is economically beneficial to preserve carbon during CFP, at the expense of higher oxygen contents in the CFP oil.« less

  3. Biochemical and physical factors affecting discoloration characteristics of 19 bovine muscles.

    PubMed

    McKenna, D R; Mies, P D; Baird, B E; Pfeiffer, K D; Ellebracht, J W; Savell, J W

    2005-08-01

    Steaks from muscles (n=19 from nine beef carcasses) were evaluated over the course of retail display (0-, 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- or 5-d) for objective measures of discoloration (metmyoglobin, oxymyoglobin, L*-, a*-, and b*-values), reducing ability (metmyoglobin reductase activity (MRA), resistance to induced metmyoglobin formation (RIMF), and nitric oxide metmyoglobin reducing ability (NORA)), oxygen consumption rate (OCR), oxygen penetration depth, myoglobin content, oxidative rancidity, and pH. Muscles were grouped according to objective color measures of discoloration. M. longissimus lumborum, M. longissimus thoracis, M. semitendinosus, and M. tensor fasciae latae were grouped as "high" color stability muscles, M. semimembranosus, M. rectus femoris, and M. vastus lateralis were grouped as "moderate" color stability muscles, M. trapezius, M. gluteus medius, and M. latissimus dorsi were grouped as "intermediate" color stability muscles, M. triceps brachi - long head, M. biceps femoris, M. pectoralis profundus, M. adductor, M. triceps brachi - lateral head, and M. serratus ventralis were grouped as "low" color stability muscles, and M. supraspinatus, M. infraspinatus, and M. psoas major were grouped as "very low" color stability muscles. Generally, muscles of high color stability had high RIMF, nitric oxide reducing ability, and oxygen penetration depth and possessed low OCRs, myoglobin content, and oxidative rancidity. In contrast, muscles of low color stability had high MRA, OCRs, myoglobin content, and oxidative rancidity and low RIMF, NORA, and oxygen penetration depth. Data indicate that discoloration differences between muscles are related to the amount of reducing activity relative to the OCR.

  4. Inhibitory activities of soluble and bound millet seed phenolics on free radicals and reactive oxygen species.

    PubMed

    Chandrasekara, Anoma; Shahidi, Fereidoon

    2011-01-12

    Oxidative stress, caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), is responsible for modulating several pathological conditions and aging. Soluble and bound phenolic extracts of commonly consumed millets, namely, kodo, finger (Ravi), finger (local), foxtail, proso, little, and pearl, were investigated for their phenolic content and inhibition of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and ROS, namely, hydroxyl radical, peroxyl radical, hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and singlet oxygen ((1)O(2)). Inhibition of DPPH and hydroxyl radicals was detrmined using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The peroxyl radical inhibitory activity was measured using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. The scavenging of H(2)O(2), HOCl, and (1)O(2) was evaluated using colorimetric methods. The results were expressed as micromoles of ferulic acid equivalents (FAE) per gram of grain on a dry weight basis. In addition, major hydroxycinnamic acids were identified and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and HPLC-mass spectrometry (MS). All millet varieties displayed effective radical and ROS inhibition activities, which generally positively correlated with phenolic contents, except for hydroxyl radical. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of ferulic and p-coumaric acids as major hydroxycinnamic acids in phenolic extract and responsible for the observed effects. Bound extracts of millet contributed 38-99% to ROS scavenging, depending on the variety and the test system employed. Hence, bound phenolics must be included in the evaluation of the antioxidant activity of millets and other cereals.

  5. Reduction Reaction Activity on Pt-Monolayer-Shell PdIr/Ni-core Catalysts

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Song, Liang; Vukmirovic, Miomir B.; Adzic, Radoslav R.

    Platinum monolayer oxygen reduction reaction catalysts present promising way of reducing the Pt content without scarifying its fuel cell performance. We present a facile way of preparing Pt monolayer shell PdIr-based core catalysts, which showed much higher activity for oxygen reduction reaction than that of TKK 46.6% Pt/C catalyst. Among tested samples, PtMLPd2Ir/Ni/C performs the best with Pt and Platinum Group Metal mass activity around 9 and 0.25 times higher of that of TKK 46.6% Pt/C. In addition, accelerated aging test indicates its excellent durability.

  6. Reduction Reaction Activity on Pt-Monolayer-Shell PdIr/Ni-core Catalysts

    DOE PAGES

    Song, Liang; Vukmirovic, Miomir B.; Adzic, Radoslav R.

    2018-05-14

    Platinum monolayer oxygen reduction reaction catalysts present promising way of reducing the Pt content without scarifying its fuel cell performance. We present a facile way of preparing Pt monolayer shell PdIr-based core catalysts, which showed much higher activity for oxygen reduction reaction than that of TKK 46.6% Pt/C catalyst. Among tested samples, PtMLPd2Ir/Ni/C performs the best with Pt and Platinum Group Metal mass activity around 9 and 0.25 times higher of that of TKK 46.6% Pt/C. In addition, accelerated aging test indicates its excellent durability.

  7. Comparative study of the antioxidant and reactive oxygen species scavenging properties in the extracts of the fruits of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica and Emblica officinalis

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Background Cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been implicated in several diseases, and hence natural antioxidants have significant importance in human health. The present study was carried out to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and reactive oxygen species scavenging activities of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica and Emblica officinalis fruit extracts. Methods The 70% methanol extracts were studied for in vitro total antioxidant activity along with phenolic and flavonoid contents and reducing power. Scavenging ability of the extracts for radicals like DPPH, hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, singlet oxygen, hypochlorous acid were also performed to determine the potential of the extracts. Results The ability of the extracts of the fruits in exhibiting their antioxative properties follow the order T. chebula >E. officinalis >T. belerica. The same order is followed in their flavonoid content, whereas in case of phenolic content it becomes E. officinalis >T. belerica >T. chebula. In the studies of free radicals' scavenging, where the activities of the plant extracts were inversely proportional to their IC50 values, T. chebula and E. officinalis were found to be taking leading role with the orders of T. chebula >E. officinalis >T. belerica for superoxide and nitric oxide, and E. officinalis >T. belerica >T. chebula for DPPH and peroxynitrite radicals. Miscellaneous results were observed in the scavenging of other radicals by the plant extracts, viz., T. chebula >T. belerica >E. officinalis for hydroxyl, T. belerica >T. chebula >E. officinalis for singlet oxygen and T. belerica >E. officinalis >T. chebula for hypochlorous acid. In a whole, the studied fruit extracts showed quite good efficacy in their antioxidant and radical scavenging abilities, compared to the standards. Conclusions The evidences as can be concluded from the study of the 70% methanol extract of the fruits of Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica and Emblica officinalis, imposes the fact that they might be useful as potent sources of natural antioxidant. PMID:20462461

  8. CuCo 2O 4 ORR/OER Bi-functional catalyst: Influence of synthetic approach on performance

    DOE PAGES

    Serov, Alexey; Andersen, Nalin I.; Roy, Aaron J.; ...

    2015-02-07

    A series of CuCo 2O 4 catalysts were synthesized by pore forming, sol-gel, spray pyrolysis and sacrificial support methods. Catalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, XPS and BET techniques. The electrochemical activity for the oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions (ORR and OER) was evaluated in alkaline media by RRDE. Density Functional Theory was used to identify two different types of active sites responsible for ORR/OER activity of CuCo 2O 4 and it was found that CuCo 2O 4 can activate the O-O bond by binding molecular oxygen in bridging positions between Co or Co and Cu atoms. It wasmore » found that the sacrificial support method (SSM) catalyst has the highest performance in both ORR and OER and has the highest content of phase-pure CuCo 2O 4. It was shown that the presence of CuO significantly decreases the activity in oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions. As a result, the half-wave potential (E 1/2) of CuCo 2O 4-SSM was found as 0.8 V, making this material a state-of-the-art, unsupported oxide catalyst.« less

  9. Production of low-oxygen bio-oil via ex situ catalytic fast pyrolysis and hydrotreating

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Iisa, Kristiina; French, Richard J.; Orton, Kellene A.

    Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) bio-oils with different organic oxygen contents (4-18 wt%) were prepared in a bench-scale dual fluidized bed reactor system by ex situ CFP of southern pine over HZSM-5, and the oils were subsequently hydrotreated over a sulfided CoMo catalyst at 170 bar. The goal was to determine the impact of the CFP oil oxygen content on hydrotreating requirements. The CFP oils with higher oxygen contents included a variety of oxygenates (phenols, methoxyphenols, carbonyls, anhydrosugars) whereas oxygenates in the 4 wt% oxygen oil were almost exclusively phenols. Phenols were the most recalcitrant oxygenates during hydrotreating as well, andmore » the hydrotreated oils consisted mainly of aromatic and partially saturated ring hydrocarbons. The temperature required to produce oil with <1% oxygen was approximately 350 °C for the CFP oil with the lowest oxygen content whereas temperatures around 400 °C were required for the other CFP oils. The carbon efficiency during hydrotreating slightly decreased as the CFP oil oxygen content increased but remained above 90% in all cases, and the carbon efficiency for the integrated process was dominated by the efficiency of the CFP process. In conclusion, a preliminary technoeconomic evaluation suggested that with the current zeolite-based CFP catalysts, it is economically beneficial to preserve carbon during CFP, at the expense of higher oxygen contents in the CFP oil.« less

  10. Production of low-oxygen bio-oil via ex situ catalytic fast pyrolysis and hydrotreating

    DOE PAGES

    Iisa, Kristiina; French, Richard J.; Orton, Kellene A.; ...

    2017-06-29

    Catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) bio-oils with different organic oxygen contents (4-18 wt%) were prepared in a bench-scale dual fluidized bed reactor system by ex situ CFP of southern pine over HZSM-5, and the oils were subsequently hydrotreated over a sulfided CoMo catalyst at 170 bar. The goal was to determine the impact of the CFP oil oxygen content on hydrotreating requirements. The CFP oils with higher oxygen contents included a variety of oxygenates (phenols, methoxyphenols, carbonyls, anhydrosugars) whereas oxygenates in the 4 wt% oxygen oil were almost exclusively phenols. Phenols were the most recalcitrant oxygenates during hydrotreating as well, andmore » the hydrotreated oils consisted mainly of aromatic and partially saturated ring hydrocarbons. The temperature required to produce oil with <1% oxygen was approximately 350 °C for the CFP oil with the lowest oxygen content whereas temperatures around 400 °C were required for the other CFP oils. The carbon efficiency during hydrotreating slightly decreased as the CFP oil oxygen content increased but remained above 90% in all cases, and the carbon efficiency for the integrated process was dominated by the efficiency of the CFP process. In conclusion, a preliminary technoeconomic evaluation suggested that with the current zeolite-based CFP catalysts, it is economically beneficial to preserve carbon during CFP, at the expense of higher oxygen contents in the CFP oil.« less

  11. Effect of oxygen on the ignition of liquid fuels

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pahl, H

    1929-01-01

    The ignition temperature, ignition lag, and ignition strength of simple and homogeneous fuels in combustion air of small oxygen content differ from what they are in air of greater oxygen content. In the case of small oxygen content, these fuels behave as if mixed unevenly. In the case of air with a definite oxygen content, the simple fuels have two ignition points, between which ignition takes place within a certain temperature range. The phenomena are explained by pyrogenous decomposition, comparison of the individual heat quantities, and the effect of the walls.

  12. Influence of oxygen content of the certain types of biodiesels on particulate oxidative potential.

    PubMed

    Hedayat, F; Stevanovic, S; Milic, A; Miljevic, B; Nabi, M N; Zare, A; Bottle, S E; Brown, R J; Ristovski, Z D

    2016-03-01

    Oxidative potential (OP) is related to the organic phase, specifically to its oxygenated organic fraction (OOA). Furthermore, the oxygen content of fuel molecules has significant influence on particulate OP. Thus, this study aimed to explore the actual dependency of the OOA and ROS to the oxygen content of the fuel. In order to reach the goal, different biodiesels blends, with various ranges of oxygen content; have been employed. The compact time of flight aerosol mass spectrometer (c-ToF AMS) enabled better identification of OOA. ROS monitored by using two assays: DTT and BPEA-nit. Despite emitting lower mass, both assays agreed that oxygen content of a biodiesel is directly correlated with its OOA, and highly related to its OP. Hence, the more oxygen included in the considered biodiesels, the higher the OP of PM emissions. This highlights the importance of taking oxygen content into account while assessing emissions from new fuel types, which is relevant from a health effects standpoint. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Antioxidant Defenses against Activated Oxygen in Pea Nodules Subjected to Water Stress.

    PubMed Central

    Gogorcena, Y.; Iturbe-Ormaetxe, I.; Escuredo, P. R.; Becana, M.

    1995-01-01

    The involvement of activated oxygen in the drought-induced damage of pea (Pisum sativum L. cv Frilene) nodules was examined. To this purpose, various pro-oxidant factors, antioxidant enzymes and related metabolites, and markers of oxidative damage were determined in nodules of well-watered (nodule water potential approximately -0.29 MPa) and water-stressed (nodule water potential approximately -2.03 MPa) plants. Water-stressed nodules entered senescence as evidenced by the 30% decrease in leghemoglobin and total soluble protein. Drought also caused a decrease in the activities of catalase (25%), ascorbate peroxidase (18%), dehydroascorbate reductase (15%), glutathione reductase (31%), and superoxide dismutase (30%), and in the contents of ascorbate (59%), reduced (57%) and oxidized (38%) glutathione, NAD+ and NADH (43%), NADP+ (31%), and NADPH (17%). The decline in the antioxidant capacity of nodules may result from a restricted supply of NAD(P)H in vivo for the ascorbate-glutathione pathway and from the Fe-catalyzed Fenton reactions of ascorbate and glutathione with activated oxygen. The 2-fold increase in the content of "catalytic Fe" would also explain the augmented levels of lipid peroxides (2.4-fold) and oxidatively modified proteins (1.4-fold) found in water-stressed nodules because of the known requirement of lipid and protein oxidation for a transition catalytic metal. PMID:12228507

  14. Oxygen Vacancy-Tuned Physical Properties in Perovskite Thin Films with Multiple B-site Valance States

    DOE PAGES

    Enriquez, Erik; Chen, Aiping; Harrell, Zach; ...

    2017-04-18

    Controlling oxygen content in perovskite oxides with ABO 3 structure is one of most critical steps for tuning their functionality. Notably, there have been tremendous efforts to understand the effect of changes in oxygen content on the properties of perovskite thin films that are not composed of cations with multiple valance states. Here, we study the effect of oxygen vacancies on structural and electrical properties in epitaxial thin films of SrFeO 3-δ (SFO), where SFO is a compound with multiple valance states at the B site. Various annealing treatments are used to produce different oxygen contents in the films, whichmore » has resulted in significant structural changes in the fully strained SFO films. The out-of-plane lattice parameter and tetragonality increase with decreasing oxygen concentration, indicating the crystal structure is closely related to the oxygen content. Importantly, variation of the oxygen content in the films significantly affects the dielectric properties, leakage conduction mechanisms, and the resistive hysteresis of the materials. These results establish the relationship between oxygen content and structural and functional properties for a range of multivalent transition metal oxides.« less

  15. Oxygen Vacancy-Tuned Physical Properties in Perovskite Thin Films with Multiple B-site Valance States

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Enriquez, Erik; Chen, Aiping; Harrell, Zach

    Controlling oxygen content in perovskite oxides with ABO 3 structure is one of most critical steps for tuning their functionality. Notably, there have been tremendous efforts to understand the effect of changes in oxygen content on the properties of perovskite thin films that are not composed of cations with multiple valance states. Here, we study the effect of oxygen vacancies on structural and electrical properties in epitaxial thin films of SrFeO 3-δ (SFO), where SFO is a compound with multiple valance states at the B site. Various annealing treatments are used to produce different oxygen contents in the films, whichmore » has resulted in significant structural changes in the fully strained SFO films. The out-of-plane lattice parameter and tetragonality increase with decreasing oxygen concentration, indicating the crystal structure is closely related to the oxygen content. Importantly, variation of the oxygen content in the films significantly affects the dielectric properties, leakage conduction mechanisms, and the resistive hysteresis of the materials. These results establish the relationship between oxygen content and structural and functional properties for a range of multivalent transition metal oxides.« less

  16. Developing the conceptual instructional design with inquiry-based instruction model of secondary students at the 10th grade level on digestion system and cellular degradation issue

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rotjanakunnatam, Boonthida; Chayaburakul, Kanokporn

    2018-01-01

    The aims of this research study was to develop the conceptual instructional design with the Inquiry-Based Instruction Model (IBIM) of secondary students at the 10th grade level on Digestion System and Cellular Degradation issue using both oxygen and oxygen-degrading cellular nutrients were designed instructional model with a sample size of 45 secondary students at the 10th Grade level. Data were collected by asking students to do a questionnaire pre and post learning processes. The questionnaire consists of two main parts that composed of students' perception questionnaire and the questionnaire that asked the question answer concept for the selected questionnaire. The 10-item Conceptual Thinking Test (CTT) was assessed students' conceptual thinking evaluation that it was covered in two main concepts, namely; Oxygen degradation nutrients and degradation nutrients without oxygen. The data by classifying students' answers into 5 groups and measuring them in frequency and a percentage of students' performances of their learning pre and post activities with the Inquiry-Based Instruction Model were analyzed as a tutorial. The results of this research found that: After the learning activities with the IBIM, most students developed concepts of both oxygen and oxygen-degrading cellular nutrients in the correct, complete and correct concept, and there are a number of students who have conceptual ideas in the wrong concept, and no concept was clearly reduced. However, the results are still found that; some students have some misconceptions, such as; the concept of direction of electron motion and formation of the ATP of bioactivities of life. This cause may come from the nature of the content, the complexity, the continuity, the movement, and the time constraints only in the classroom. Based on this research, it is suggested that some students may take some time, and the limited time in the classroom to their learning activity with content creation content binding and dramatic storytelling increases in a relaxed classroom learning environment.

  17. Effect of dissolved oxygen and temperature on macromolecular composition and PHB storage of activated sludge.

    PubMed

    Reyes, Paula; Urtubia, Alejandra; Schiappacasse, María C; Chamy, Rolando; Montalvo, Silvio; Borja, Rafael

    2014-01-01

    The macromolecular composition of activated sludge (lipids, intracellular proteins and intracellular polysaccharides) was studied together with its capacity to store macromolecules such as polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) in a conventional activated sludge system fed with synthetic sewage water at an organic load rate of 1.0 kg COD/(m(3)·d), varying the dissolved oxygen (DO) and temperature. Six DO concentrations (0.8, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 8 mg/L) were studied at 20°C with a sludge retention time (SRT) of 6 days. In addition, four temperatures (10ºC, 15ºC, 20ºC and 30ºC) were assessed at constant DO (2 mg/L) with 2 days SRT in a second experimental run. The highest lipid content in the activated sludge was 95.6 mg/g VSS, obtained at 30°C, 2 mg/L of DO and a SRT of 2 days. The highest content of intracellular proteins in the activated sludge was 87.8 mg/g VSS, obtained at 20°C, 8 mg/L of DO and a SRT of 6 days. The highest content of intracellular polysaccharides in the activated sludge was 76.6 mg/g VSS, which was achieved at 20°C, a SRT of 6 days and a wide range of DO. The activated sludge PHB storage was very low for all the conditions studied.

  18. Reactive Oxygene Species and Thioredoxin Activity in Plants at Development of Hypergravity and Oxidative Stresses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jadko, Sergiy

    Early increasing of reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, including H2O2, occurs in plant cells under various impacts and than these ROS can function as signaling molecules in starting of cell stress responses. At the same time thioredoxins (TR) are significant ROS and H2O2 sensors and transmitters to activation of various redox sensitive proteins, transcription factors and MAP kinases. This study was aimed to investigate early increasing of ROS and H2O2 contents and TR activity in the pea roots and in tissue culture under hypergravity and oxidative stresses. Pea roots of 3-5 days old seedlings and 12-14 days old tissue culture of Arabidopsis thaliana were studied. The pea seedlings were grown on wet filter paper and the tissue culture was grown on MS medium in dark conditions under 24oC. Hypergravity stress was induced by centrifugation at 10 and 15 g. Chemiluminescence (ChL) intensity for ROS concentration, H2O2 content and TR activity were determined. All experiments were repeated by 3-5 times. Early and reliable increasing of ChL intensity and H2O2 contents in the pea roots and in the tissue culture took place under hypergravity and oxidative stresses to 30, 60 and 90 min. At the same time TR activity increased on 11 and 19 percents only to 60 and 90 min. Thus under hypergravity and oxidative stresses in both investigated plants take place early increasing of ROS and H2O2 contents which as second messengers lead to increasing of TR activity with creating of ROS-TR stress signaling pathway.

  19. Understanding the Origins of Higher Capacities at Faster Rates in Lithium-Excess Li xNi 2–4x/3Sb x/3O 2

    DOE PAGES

    Twu, Nancy; Metzger, Michael; Balasubramanian, Mahalingam; ...

    2017-02-08

    Here, the lithium-excess Li xNi 2-4x/3Sb x/3O 2 (LNSO) materials were previously shown to demonstrate higher capacities and improved cyclability with increasing lithium content. While the performance trend is promising, observed capacities are much lower than theoretical capacities, pointing to a need for further understanding of active redox processes in these materials. In this work, we study the electrochemical behavior of the LNSO materials as a function of lithium content and at slow and fast rates. Surprisingly, Li 1.15Ni 0.47Sb 0.38O 2 (LNSO-15) exhibits higher discharge capacities at faster rates and traverses distinct voltage curves at slow and fast rates.more » To understand these two peculiarities, we characterize the redox activity of nickel, antimony, and oxygen at different rates. While experiments confirm some nickel redox activity and oxygen loss, these two mechanisms cannot account for all observed capacity. We propose that the balance of the observed capacity may be due reversible oxygen redox and that the rate-dependent voltage curve features may derive from irreversible nickel migration occurring on slow charge. As future high energy density cathodes are likely to contain both lithium excess and high nickel content, both of these findings have important implications for the development of novel high capacity cathode materials.« less

  20. Analysis of alanine aminotransferase in various organs of soybean (Glycine max) and in dependence of different nitrogen fertilisers during hypoxic stress.

    PubMed

    Rocha, Marcio; Sodek, Ladaslav; Licausi, Francesco; Hameed, Muhammad Waqar; Dornelas, Marcelo Carnier; van Dongen, Joost T

    2010-10-01

    Alanine aminotransferase (AlaAT) catalyses the reversible conversion of pyruvate and glutamate into alanine and oxoglutarate. In soybean, two subclasses were identified, each represented by two highly similar members. To investigate the role of AlaAT during hypoxic stress in soybean, changes in transcript level of both subclasses were analysed together with the enzyme activity and alanine content of the tissue. Moreover, the dependency of AlaAT activity and gene expression was investigated in relation to the source of nitrogen supplied to the plants. Using semi-quantitative PCR, GmAlaAT genes were determined to be highest expressed in roots and nodules. Under normal growth conditions, enzyme activity of AlaAT was detected in all organs tested, with lowest activity in the roots. Upon waterlogging-induced hypoxia, AlaAT activity increased strongly. Concomitantly, alanine accumulated. During re-oxygenation, AlaAT activity remained high, but the transcript level and the alanine content decreased. Our results show a role for AlaAT in the catabolism of alanine during the initial period of re-oxygenation following hypoxia. GmAlaAT also responded to nitrogen availability in the solution during waterlogging. Ammonium as nitrogen source induced both gene expression and enzyme activity of AlaAT more than when nitrate was supplied in the nutrient solution. The work presented here indicates that AlaAT might not only be important during hypoxia, but also during the recovery phase after waterlogging, when oxygen is available to the tissue again.

  1. [Influence of raising oxygen content on function of platelet concentrate during preservation].

    PubMed

    Zhan, Tong; Xiao, Jian-Yu; Tao, Jing; Miao, Xi-Feng; Liu, Yan-Cun; Tang, Rong-Cai

    2006-08-01

    To explore the influence of raising oxygen (dissolved oxygen) content on function of platelet concentrate, the platelet concentrate was prepared by a CS-3000 plus blood cell separator. Experiments were divided into 2 groups: test group and control group. After raising oxygen content in platelet plasma under sterile operation, the platelet samples of two groups were preserved in oscillator with horizontal oscillation at 22 +/- 2 degrees C. The platelet count, platelet aggregation rate, lactic acid content and CD62p expression level of platelet were detected on 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days of platelet preservation. The results showed that the platelet count and platelet aggregation rate decreased with prolongation of preserved time, while the lactic acid content and CD62p expression level of platelet increased gradually. Compared with control group, there were significant differences in aggregation rate of platelet preserved for 2-3 days, and in CD62p expression level of platelet preserved for 1-3 days, while significant difference was found in lactic acid content of platelet preserved for 1-3 days. It is concluded that raising content of oxygen in platelet plasma can provide more oxygen to compensate oxygen supply deficiency for platelet metabolism and improve the efficiency of platelet oxygenic metabolism and the quality of platelet during preservation.

  2. The oxygen content of the high-temperature superconducting compound Bi{sub 2+x}Sr{sub 3-y}CayCu{sub 2}O{sub 8+d} with respect to varying Ca and Bi contents

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Majewski, P.; Su, H.L.; Aldinger, F.

    1994-12-31

    The oxygen content of Bi{sub 2+x}Sr{sub 3-y}Ca{sub y}Cu{sub 2}O{sub 8+d} (2212 phase) has been determined as a function of its cation concentration. With increasing Ca and Bi content the oxygen content increases and T{sub c} decreases. The oxygen content of Ca rich 2212 phase increases with decreasing annealing temperatures. The study shows that the T{sub c} of the 2212 phase primarily is controlled by its cation concentration.

  3. Differential Operation of Dual Protochlorophyllide Reductases for Chlorophyll Biosynthesis in Response to Environmental Oxygen Levels in the Cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya boryana1

    PubMed Central

    Yamazaki, Shoji; Nomata, Jiro; Fujita, Yuichi

    2006-01-01

    Most oxygenic phototrophs, including cyanobacteria, have two structurally unrelated protochlorophyllide (Pchlide) reductases in the penultimate step of chlorophyll biosynthesis. One is light-dependent Pchlide reductase (LPOR) and the other is dark-operative Pchlide reductase (DPOR), a nitrogenase-like enzyme assumed to be sensitive to oxygen. Very few studies have been conducted on how oxygen-sensitive DPOR operates in oxygenic phototrophic cells. Here, we report that anaerobic conditions are required for DPOR to compensate for the loss of LPOR in cyanobacterial cells. An LPOR-lacking mutant of the cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya boryana (formerly Plectonema boryanum) failed to grow in high light conditions and this phenotype was overcome by cultivating it under anaerobic conditions (2% CO2/N2). The critical oxygen level enabling the mutant to grow in high light was determined to be 3% (v/v). Oxygen-sensitive Pchlide reduction activity was successfully detected as DPOR activity in cell-free extracts of anaerobically grown mutants, whereas activity was undetectable in the wild type. The content of two DPOR subunits, ChlL and ChlN, was significantly increased in mutant cells compared with wild type. This suggests that the increase in subunits stimulates the DPOR activity that is protected efficiently from oxygen by anaerobic environments, resulting in complementation of the loss of LPOR. These results provide important concepts for understanding how dual Pchlide reductases operate differentially in oxygenic photosynthetic cells grown under natural environments where oxygen levels undergo dynamic changes. The evolutionary implications of the coexistence of two Pchlide reductases are discussed. PMID:17028153

  4. Antioxidant Activities of Chokeberry Extracts and the Cytotoxic Action of Their Anthocyanin Fraction on HeLa Human Cervical Tumor Cells

    PubMed Central

    Rugină, Dumitriţa; Sconţa, Zoriţa; Leopold, Loredana; Pintea, Adela; Bunea, Andrea

    2012-01-01

    Abstract The present study evaluates the antioxidant activity of two Aronia melanocarpa cultivars—Viking and Aron—and of Aronia prunifolia hybrid in relationship with their phytochemical composition regarding the contents of total phenolics, flavonoids, procyanidins, and monomeric anthocyanins. The antioxidant capacity of the mentioned extracts of chokeberries was evaluated through five complementary assays: 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), H2O2 scavenging potential, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity. A. prunifolia hybrid was found to have the highest antioxidant activity and to be the richest in polyphenols, procyanidins, and anthocyanins compared with the A. melanocarpa cultivars. A good correlation was observed between antioxidant activity and total procyanidin and anthocyanin content. Cyanidin glycosides inhibited HeLa human cervical tumor cell proliferation and increased generation of reactive oxygen species after 48 h of treatment, suggesting that they could be responsible for the antiproliferative activity. These results may be significant for industry concerning food quality and disease prevention. PMID:22846076

  5. Changes of oxygen content in facial skin before and after cigarette smoking.

    PubMed

    Fan, Guo-Biao; Wu, Pei-Lan; Wang, Xue-Min

    2012-11-01

    Cigarette smoking not only causes systemic health problems, but may also be an underlying cause of premature skin aging. Cigarette smokers frequently have morphological changes in facial skin that may be attributed to reduced oxygen in this region. The purpose of this study was to measure the oxygen content in facial skin before and after smoking. Twenty-five volunteers participated in this study. Changes in oxygen content of the facial skin were measured before and after 30 min of cigarette smoking. Skin temperature and oxygen content were evaluated in the periorbital and periolar regions. There was a significant increase in temperature after smoking. The oxy hemoglobin and partial pressure of oxygen decreased in both the periocular and perioral areas after smoking. There were no changes in deoxy hemoglobin and partial pressure of carbon dioxide at these areas. Significant changes were seen in temperature and oxygen content after only 30 min of smoking. The results from this study suggest that alterations in the skin temperature and oxygen content in facial skin after smoking may be an underlying cause of premature skin aging. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

  6. Declining oxygen in the global ocean and coastal waters.

    PubMed

    Breitburg, Denise; Levin, Lisa A; Oschlies, Andreas; Grégoire, Marilaure; Chavez, Francisco P; Conley, Daniel J; Garçon, Véronique; Gilbert, Denis; Gutiérrez, Dimitri; Isensee, Kirsten; Jacinto, Gil S; Limburg, Karin E; Montes, Ivonne; Naqvi, S W A; Pitcher, Grant C; Rabalais, Nancy N; Roman, Michael R; Rose, Kenneth A; Seibel, Brad A; Telszewski, Maciej; Yasuhara, Moriaki; Zhang, Jing

    2018-01-05

    Oxygen is fundamental to life. Not only is it essential for the survival of individual animals, but it regulates global cycles of major nutrients and carbon. The oxygen content of the open ocean and coastal waters has been declining for at least the past half-century, largely because of human activities that have increased global temperatures and nutrients discharged to coastal waters. These changes have accelerated consumption of oxygen by microbial respiration, reduced solubility of oxygen in water, and reduced the rate of oxygen resupply from the atmosphere to the ocean interior, with a wide range of biological and ecological consequences. Further research is needed to understand and predict long-term, global- and regional-scale oxygen changes and their effects on marine and estuarine fisheries and ecosystems. Copyright © 2018, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

  7. Effect of the oxygen content in solution on the static and cyclic deformation of titanium foams.

    PubMed

    Lefebvre, L P; Baril, E; Bureau, M N

    2009-11-01

    It is well known that interstitials affect the mechanical properties of titanium and titanium alloys. Their effects on the fatigue properties of titanium foams have not, however, been documented in the literature. This paper presents the effect of the oxygen content on the static and dynamic compression properties of titanium foams. Increasing the oxygen content from 0.24 to 0.51 wt% O in solution significantly increases the yield strength and reduces the ductility of the foams. However, the fatigue limit is not significantly affected by the oxygen content and falls within the 92 MPa +/- 12 MPa range for all specimens investigated in this study. During cyclic loading, deformation is initially coming from cumulative creep followed by the formation of microcracks. The coalescence of these microcracks is responsible for the rupture of the specimens. Fracture surfaces of the specimens having lower oxygen content show a more ductile aspect than the specimens having higher oxygen content.

  8. A hybrid intelligent method for three-dimensional short-term prediction of dissolved oxygen content in aquaculture.

    PubMed

    Chen, Yingyi; Yu, Huihui; Cheng, Yanjun; Cheng, Qianqian; Li, Daoliang

    2018-01-01

    A precise predictive model is important for obtaining a clear understanding of the changes in dissolved oxygen content in crab ponds. Highly accurate interval forecasting of dissolved oxygen content is fundamental to reduce risk, and three-dimensional prediction can provide more accurate results and overall guidance. In this study, a hybrid three-dimensional (3D) dissolved oxygen content prediction model based on a radial basis function (RBF) neural network, K-means and subtractive clustering was developed and named the subtractive clustering (SC)-K-means-RBF model. In this modeling process, K-means and subtractive clustering methods were employed to enhance the hyperparameters required in the RBF neural network model. The comparison of the predicted results of different traditional models validated the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed hybrid SC-K-means-RBF model for three-dimensional prediction of dissolved oxygen content. Consequently, the proposed model can effectively display the three-dimensional distribution of dissolved oxygen content and serve as a guide for feeding and future studies.

  9. Effects of oxygen content on the oxidation process of Si-containing steel during anisothermal heating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yuan, Qing; Xu, Guang; Liang, Wei-cheng; He, Bei; Zhou, Ming-xing

    2018-02-01

    The oxidizing behavior of Si-containing steel was investigated in an O2 and N2 binary-component gas with oxygen contents ranging between 0.5vol% and 4.0vol% under anisothermal-oxidation conditions. A simultaneous thermal analyzer was employed to simulate the heating process of Si-containing steel in industrial reheating furnaces. The oxidation gas mixtures were introduced from the commencement of heating. The results show that the oxidizing rate remains constant in the isothermal holding process at high temperatures; therefore, the mass change versus time presents a linear law. A linear relation also exists between the oxidizing rate and the oxygen content. Using the linear regression equation, the oxidation rate at different oxygen contents can be predicted. In addition, the relationship between the total mass gain and the oxygen content is linear; thus, the total mass gain at oxygen contents between 0.5vol%-4.0vol% can be determined. These results enrich the theoretical studies of the oxidation process in Si-containing steels.

  10. Antiplatelet Aggregation Activity of Walnut Hull Extract via Suppression of Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and Caspase Activation.

    PubMed

    Meshkini, Azadeh; Tahmasbi, Masoumeh

    2017-06-01

    Walnut hull (wal hull) is an agricultural by-product that is widely used in traditional medicine for alleviating pain and treating skin diseases, however, recently it has gained much attention in modern pharmacology due to its antioxidant properties. The current study was aimed to determine the total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin content of Persian wal hull extract and evaluate its biological effects on platelet function. Experimental data showed that acetone extract of wal hulls has a high content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant properties. The analytical study of crude extract by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry demonstrated different types of high- and low-molecular-weight compounds that are basically and biologically important. Moreover, an in vitro study revealed that wal hull extract at a concentration of 50 μg/mL inhibited thrombin-induced platelet aggregation and protein secretion by 50%, without any cytotoxic effects on platelets. The examined extract suppressed reactive oxygen species generation and also caspase activation in thrombin-stimulated platelets. Identically, N-acetylcysteine inhibited the increase of reactive oxygen species level induced by thrombin in platelets, and supported a link between cellular redox status and caspase activation in activated platelets. Presumably, the antiplatelet activity of wal hull extract is related to its polyphenolic compounds and their antioxidant properties. Therefore, wal hulls can be considered as a candidate for thrombotic disorders. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  11. Colon luminal content and epithelial cell morphology are markedly modified in rats fed with a high-protein diet.

    PubMed

    Andriamihaja, Mireille; Davila, Anne-Marie; Eklou-Lawson, Mamy; Petit, Nathalie; Delpal, Serge; Allek, Fadhila; Blais, Anne; Delteil, Corine; Tomé, Daniel; Blachier, François

    2010-11-01

    Hyperproteic diets are used in human nutrition to obtain body weight reduction. Although increased protein ingestion results in an increased transfer of proteins from the small to the large intestine, there is little information on the consequences of the use of such diets on the composition of large intestine content and on epithelial cell morphology and metabolism. Rats were fed for 15 days with either a normoproteic (NP, 14% protein) or a hyperproteic isocaloric diet (HP, 53% protein), and absorptive colonocytes were observed by electron microscopy or isolated for enzyme activity studies. The colonic luminal content was recovered for biochemical analysis. Absorbing colonocytes were characterized by a 1.7-fold reduction in the height of the brush-border membranes (P = 0.0001) after HP diet consumption when compared with NP. This coincided in the whole colon content of HP animals with a 1.8-fold higher mass content (P = 0.0020), a 2.2-fold higher water content (P = 0.0240), a 5.2-fold higher protease activity (P = 0.0104), a 5.5-fold higher ammonia content (P = 0.0008), and a more than twofold higher propionate, valerate, isobutyrate, and isovalerate content (P < 0.05). The basal oxygen consumption of colonocytes was similar in the NP and HP groups, but ammonia was found to provoke a dose-dependent decrease of oxygen consumption in the isolated absorbing colonocytes. The activity of glutamine synthetase (which condenses ammonia and glutamate) was found to be much higher in colonocytes than in small intestine enterocytes and was 1.6-fold higher (P = 0.0304) in colonocytes isolated from HP animals than NP. Glutaminase activity remained unchanged. Thus hyperproteic diet ingestion causes marked changes both in the luminal environment of colonocytes and in the characteristics of these cells, demonstrating that hyperproteic diet interferes with colonocyte metabolism and morphology. Possible causal relationships between energy metabolism, reduced height of colonocyte brush-border membranes, and reduced water absorption are discussed.

  12. Differential Expression of NADPH Oxidases Depends on Skeletal Muscle Fiber Type in Rats.

    PubMed

    Loureiro, Adriano César Carneiro; do Rêgo-Monteiro, Igor Coutinho; Louzada, Ruy A; Ortenzi, Victor Hugo; de Aguiar, Angélica Ponte; de Abreu, Ewerton Sousa; Cavalcanti-de-Albuquerque, João Paulo Albuquerque; Hecht, Fabio; de Oliveira, Ariclécio Cunha; Ceccatto, Vânia Marilande; Fortunato, Rodrigo S; Carvalho, Denise P

    2016-01-01

    NADPH oxidases (NOX) are important sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in skeletal muscle, being involved in excitation-contraction coupling. Thus, we aimed to investigate if NOX activity and expression in skeletal muscle are fiber type specific and the possible contribution of this difference to cellular oxidative stress. Oxygen consumption rate, NOX activity and mRNA levels, and the activity of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as the reactive protein thiol levels, were measured in the soleus (SOL), red gastrocnemius (RG), and white gastrocnemius (WG) muscles of rats. RG showed higher oxygen consumption flow than SOL and WG, while SOL had higher oxygen consumption than WG. SOL showed higher NOX activity, as well as NOX2 and NOX4 mRNA levels, antioxidant enzymatic activities, and reactive protein thiol contents when compared to WG and RG. NOX activity and NOX4 mRNA levels as well as antioxidant enzymatic activities were higher in RG than in WG. Physical exercise increased NOX activity in SOL and RG, specifically NOX2 mRNA levels in RG and NOX4 mRNA levels in SOL. In conclusion, we demonstrated that NOX activity and expression differ according to the skeletal muscle fiber type, as well as antioxidant defense.

  13. [The relationship between the desiccation-induced browning and the metabolism of active oxygen and phenolics in pericarp of postharvest longan fruit].

    PubMed

    Lin, He-Tong; Xi, Yu-Fang; Chen, Shao-Jun

    2005-06-01

    Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) fruits are very susceptible to water loss and pericarp browning, and postharvest pericarp browning is the most important factors degrading the quality of longan fruit and shorting storage life. Pericarp browning has been attributed to desiccation, chilling, heat stress, senescence and pest or pathogen attack. Desiccation is the most main factor of induced-pericarp browning in longan. The relationship between water loss from pericarp and pericarp browning in longan cv. Fuyan fruits using open plastic punnets and sealed polyethylene bags at 10 degrees C +/-1 degrees C and 50% relative humidity, and the effect of pericarp water loss of the fruit on active oxygen metabolism and phenolics metabolism were investigated. Water loss resulted in rapid pericarp browning. Development of pericarp browning was higher with higher rate of water loss from pericarp and storage time (from 0 to 6 days). Water loss from pericarp was positively correlated with pericarp browning index significantly (P<0.01). Water loss from pericarp resulted in reduced activities of reactive-oxygen-scavenging enzymes (SOD, CAT, APX and GR), decreased amounts of endogenous antioxidant substances (AsA and GSH), and increased rates of O(-.)(2) production, MDA content and relative leakage rate, which showed that membrane structure was broken. Water loss from pericarp resulted in an increase in activity of PPO, and obvious reductions in total phenolic and flavonoid contents, whereas there was not obvious change in anthocyanin content. These results show that phenolics and flavonoids are the main substrates for PPO during desiccation-induced browning. Water loss from pericarp caused a significant increase in activity of POD, which also plays an important role in desiccation-induced browning in pericarp of longan fruit. Water loss from pericarp caused an increase in pH value, which resulted in changes in anthocyanin structure and color, the degradation of anthocyanin became easier. The results suggest that desiccation-induced browning of longan pericarp may be due to a decrease in activities of reactive-oxygen-scavenging enzymes and amounts of endogenous antioxidant substances, an accumulation of active oxygen, an increase in membrane lipid peroxidation, an injury of the integrity of cellular membrane structure, which, in turn, may cause cellular decompartmentation, resulted in PPO and POD, located in plastid and other organelle, to come into contact with phenolic and flavonoid substrates, located in vacuole, to form brown polymers.

  14. [What degree of hypoxemia is tolerable for human beings?].

    PubMed

    Köhler, D

    2010-03-01

    According to the literature, hypoxemia is considered to be severe when oxygen saturation (Sa O(2)) falls below 90 %. Frequently one can discover lower values without impairment of the patient. Especially patients with the obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) will have frequent night time desaturations of significant duration below 50 % Sa O(2), but do still cope with their daytime jobs. This discrepancy can only be explained by the fact, that hypoxemia is not equivalent to tissue hypoxia. The latter is mainly being determined by oxygen delivery (DO2) which is being calculated by multiplying cardiac output (CO) and oxygen content (CaO2). Ca O(2) is determined by the product of Sa O(2) and haemoglobin (Hb) times 1.35. From this context it becomes evident, that assessing hypoxemia without considering oxygen content will frequently be misleading. The human organism has several possible ways of compensation in order to avoid tissue hypoxia. In case of acute hypoxemia that evolves within minutes the organism can shift the oxygen binding curve by changing 2 - 3-DGP erythrocytic activity. Additionally non vital organ systems might reduce their oxygen uptake. During sustained hypoxia (lasting 2 - 3 days) the Krebs cycle and the respiratory chain will express hypoxia-resistant iso-enzymes. Long lasting hypoxia can be compensated by polycythemia. Indirect data suggest, that the critical number for the oxygen content is rather low and is estimated to be somewhere around 33 % of the normal value. These mechanism of hypoxia-resistance are hardly ever maxed out in patients on critical care units.Lack of knowledge of the above described mechanisms does frequently result in diseases like ARDS which frequently develops due to excessive ventilatory pressures and excessive inspired O(2) concentrations. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart, New York.

  15. Antioxidant effect of aromatic volatiles emitted by Lavandula dentata, Mentha spicata, and M. piperita on mouse subjected to low oxygen condition.

    PubMed

    Hu, Zenghui; Wang, Chunling; Shen, Hong; Zhang, Kezhong; Leng, Pingsheng

    2017-12-01

    This study aims to investigate the antioxidant effect of aromatic volatiles of three common aromatic plants, Lavandula dentata, Mentha spicata, and M. piperita. In this study, kunming mice subjected to low oxygen condition were treated with the volatiles emitted from these aromatic plants through inhalation administration. Then the blood cell counts, and the activities and gene expressions of antioxidant enzymes in different tissues were tested. The results showed that low oxygen increased the counts of red blood cells, white blood cells, and blood platelets of mice, and aromatic volatiles decreased their counts. Exposure to aromatic volatiles resulted in decreases in the malonaldehyde contents, and increases in the activities and gene expressions of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase in different tissues under low oxygen. In addition, as the main component of aromatic volatiles, eucalyptol was the potential source that imparted positive antioxidant effect.

  16. Antioxidant Activities and Caffeic Acid Content in New Zealand Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) Roots Extracts

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Hongxia; Al-Juhaimi, Fahad Y.; Bekhit, Alaa El-Din Ahmed

    2018-01-01

    Asparagus officinalis are perennial plants that require re-planting every 10–20 years. The roots are traditionally mulched in the soil or treated as waste. The A. officinalis roots (AR) contain valuable bioactive compounds that may have some health benefiting properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the total polyphenol and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC, respectively) and antioxidant (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and Ferric Reducing/Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays) activities of New Zealand AR extract. The antioxidant activity decreased with a longer extraction time. PMID:29617287

  17. Comparative Analysis of γ-Oryzanol, β-Glucan, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Rice Bran of Different Varieties

    PubMed Central

    Jung, Tae-Dong; Shin, Gi-Hae; Kim, Jae-Min; Choi, Sun-Il; Lee, Jin-Ha; Lee, Sang Jong; Park, Seon Ju; Woo, Koan Sik; Oh, Sea Kwan; Lee, Ok-Hawn

    2017-01-01

    Rice bran, a by-product derived from processing rice, is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Recent studies have suggested that the fermentation can improve their biological activities. This study aimed to determined the level of γ-oryzanol, β-glucan and total phenol contents of fermented rice bran from 21 Korean varieties, as well as to evaluate their antioxidant activities. We also assessed the validation of the analytical method for determining γ-oryzanol content in fermented rice brans. Among the fermented rice brans, the Haedam rice bran contained the highest level of total phenol content (156.08 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity (71.30%) and ORAC (Oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value (1101.31 μM trolox equivalents/g). Furthermore, the fermented Migwang rice bran showed the highest level of γ-oryzanol content (294.77 ± 6.74 mg/100 g). PMID:28587204

  18. Comparative Analysis of γ-Oryzanol, β-Glucan, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity in Fermented Rice Bran of Different Varieties.

    PubMed

    Jung, Tae-Dong; Shin, Gi-Hae; Kim, Jae-Min; Choi, Sun-Il; Lee, Jin-Ha; Lee, Sang Jong; Park, Seon Ju; Woo, Koan Sik; Oh, Sea Kwan; Lee, Ok-Hawn

    2017-06-03

    Rice bran, a by-product derived from processing rice, is a rich source of bioactive compounds. Recent studies have suggested that the fermentation can improve their biological activities. This study aimed to determined the level of γ-oryzanol, β-glucan and total phenol contents of fermented rice bran from 21 Korean varieties, as well as to evaluate their antioxidant activities. We also assessed the validation of the analytical method for determining γ-oryzanol content in fermented rice brans. Among the fermented rice brans, the Haedam rice bran contained the highest level of total phenol content (156.08 mg gallic acid equivalents/g), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity (71.30%) and ORAC (Oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value (1101.31 μM trolox equivalents/g). Furthermore, the fermented Migwang rice bran showed the highest level of γ-oryzanol content (294.77 ± 6.74 mg/100 g).

  19. Effects of Gingko biloba extract (EGb 761) on vascular smooth muscle cell calcification induced by β-glycerophosphate.

    PubMed

    Li, En-Gang; Tian, Jun; Xu, Zhong-Hua

    2016-01-01

    To investigate the effects of Gingko biloba extract (EGb 761) on calcification induced by β-glycerophosphate in rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells. Rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells were cultured with various concentrations of EGb 761 and β-glycerophosphate for 7 days. Calcium content in the cells, alkaline phosphatase activity, cell protein content, NF-κB activation, and reactive oxygen species production were assayed, respectively. The calcium depositions of vascular smooth muscle cells of the β-glycerophosphate group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.01), and were inhibited by EGb 761 in a concentration-dependent manner (p < 0.05). Data showed β-glycerophosphate induced the enhanced expression of alkaline phosphatase, up-regulated the NF-κB activity and increased reactive oxygen species production of vascular smooth muscle cells while these decreased when administrated with EGb 761(p < 0.05). EGb 761 significantly reduced deposition of calcium induced by β-glycerophosphate in rat aortic vascular smooth muscle cells. It not only reduced the deposition of calcium, but also inhibited osteogenic transdifferentiation, which may be associated with decreasing expression of alkaline phosphatase, down-regulating the NF-κB activity, and reducing reactive oxygen species production of vascular smooth muscle cells, and may have the potential to serve as a role for vascular calcification in clinical situations.

  20. Thermodynamic Stability of Molybdenum Oxycarbides Formed from Orthorhombic Mo 2 C in Oxygen-Rich Environments

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Likith, S. R. J.; Farberow, C. A.; Manna, S.

    Molybdenum carbide (Mo 2C) nanoparticles and thin films are particularly suitable catalysts for catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) as they are effective for deoxygenation and can catalyze certain reactions that typically occur on noble metals. Oxygen deposited during deoxygenation reactions may alter the carbide structure, leading to the formation of oxycarbides, which can determine changes in catalytic activity or selectivity. Despite emerging spectroscopic evidence of bulk oxycarbides, so far there have been no reports of their precise atomic structure or their relative stability with respect to orthorhombic Mo 2C. This knowledge is essential for assessing the catalytic properties of molybdenum (oxy)carbidesmore » for CFP. In this article, we use density functional theory (DFT) calculations to (a) describe the thermodynamic stability of surface and subsurface configurations of oxygen and carbon atoms for a commonly studied Mo-terminated surface of orthorhombic Mo 2C and (b) determine atomic structures for oxycarbides with a Mo:C ratio of 2:1. The surface calculations suggest that oxygen atoms are not stable under the top Mo layer of the Mo 2C(100) surface. Coupling DFT calculations with a polymorph sampling method, we determine (Mo 2C) xO y oxycarbide structures for a wide range of oxygen compositions. Oxycarbides with lower oxygen content (y/x = 2) adopt layered structures reminiscent of the parent carbide phase, with flat Mo layers separated by layers of oxygen and carbon; for higher oxygen content, our results suggest the formation of amorphous phases, as the atomic layers lose their planarity with increasing oxygen content. We characterize the oxidation states of Mo in the oxycarbide structures determined computationally, and simulate their X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns in order to facilitate comparisons with experiments. Our study may provide a platform for large-scale investigations of the catalytic properties of oxycarbides and their surfaces and for tailoring the catalytic properties for different desired reactions.« less

  1. Thermodynamic Stability of Molybdenum Oxycarbides Formed from Orthorhombic Mo 2 C in Oxygen-Rich Environments

    DOE PAGES

    Likith, S. R. J.; Farberow, C. A.; Manna, S.; ...

    2017-12-20

    Molybdenum carbide (Mo 2C) nanoparticles and thin films are particularly suitable catalysts for catalytic fast pyrolysis (CFP) as they are effective for deoxygenation and can catalyze certain reactions that typically occur on noble metals. Oxygen deposited during deoxygenation reactions may alter the carbide structure, leading to the formation of oxycarbides, which can determine changes in catalytic activity or selectivity. Despite emerging spectroscopic evidence of bulk oxycarbides, so far there have been no reports of their precise atomic structure or their relative stability with respect to orthorhombic Mo 2C. This knowledge is essential for assessing the catalytic properties of molybdenum (oxy)carbidesmore » for CFP. In this article, we use density functional theory (DFT) calculations to (a) describe the thermodynamic stability of surface and subsurface configurations of oxygen and carbon atoms for a commonly studied Mo-terminated surface of orthorhombic Mo 2C and (b) determine atomic structures for oxycarbides with a Mo:C ratio of 2:1. The surface calculations suggest that oxygen atoms are not stable under the top Mo layer of the Mo 2C(100) surface. Coupling DFT calculations with a polymorph sampling method, we determine (Mo 2C) xO y oxycarbide structures for a wide range of oxygen compositions. Oxycarbides with lower oxygen content (y/x = 2) adopt layered structures reminiscent of the parent carbide phase, with flat Mo layers separated by layers of oxygen and carbon; for higher oxygen content, our results suggest the formation of amorphous phases, as the atomic layers lose their planarity with increasing oxygen content. We characterize the oxidation states of Mo in the oxycarbide structures determined computationally, and simulate their X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns in order to facilitate comparisons with experiments. Our study may provide a platform for large-scale investigations of the catalytic properties of oxycarbides and their surfaces and for tailoring the catalytic properties for different desired reactions.« less

  2. Arterial oxygen content is precisely maintained by graded erythrocytotic responses in settings of high/normal serum iron levels, and predicts exercise capacity: an observational study of hypoxaemic patients with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations.

    PubMed

    Santhirapala, Vatshalan; Williams, Louisa C; Tighe, Hannah C; Jackson, James E; Shovlin, Claire L

    2014-01-01

    Oxygen, haemoglobin and cardiac output are integrated components of oxygen transport: each gram of haemoglobin transports 1.34 mls of oxygen in the blood. Low arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and haemoglobin saturation (SaO2), are the indices used in clinical assessments, and usually result from low inspired oxygen concentrations, or alveolar/airways disease. Our objective was to examine low blood oxygen/haemoglobin relationships in chronically compensated states without concurrent hypoxic pulmonary vasoreactivity. 165 consecutive unselected patients with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations were studied, in 98 cases, pre/post embolisation treatment. 159 (96%) had hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia. Arterial oxygen content was calculated by SaO2 x haemoglobin x 1.34/100. There was wide variation in SaO2 on air (78.5-99, median 95)% but due to secondary erythrocytosis and resultant polycythaemia, SaO2 explained only 0.1% of the variance in arterial oxygen content per unit blood volume. Secondary erythrocytosis was achievable with low iron stores, but only if serum iron was high-normal: Low serum iron levels were associated with reduced haemoglobin per erythrocyte, and overall arterial oxygen content was lower in iron deficient patients (median 16.0 [IQR 14.9, 17.4]mls/dL compared to 18.8 [IQR 17.4, 20.1]mls/dL, p<0.0001). Exercise tolerance appeared unrelated to SaO2 but was significantly worse in patients with lower oxygen content (p<0.0001). A pre-defined athletic group had higher Hb:SaO2 and serum iron:ferritin ratios than non-athletes with normal exercise capacity. PAVM embolisation increased SaO2, but arterial oxygen content was precisely restored by a subsequent fall in haemoglobin: 86 (87.8%) patients reported no change in exercise tolerance at post-embolisation follow-up. Haemoglobin and oxygen measurements in isolation do not indicate the more physiologically relevant oxygen content per unit blood volume. This can be maintained for SaO2 ≥78.5%, and resets to the same arterial oxygen content after correction of hypoxaemia. Serum iron concentrations, not ferritin, seem to predict more successful polycythaemic responses.

  3. Arterial Oxygen Content Is Precisely Maintained by Graded Erythrocytotic Responses in Settings of High/Normal Serum Iron Levels, and Predicts Exercise Capacity: An Observational Study of Hypoxaemic Patients with Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations

    PubMed Central

    Santhirapala, Vatshalan; Williams, Louisa C.; Tighe, Hannah C.; Jackson, James E.; Shovlin, Claire L.

    2014-01-01

    Background Oxygen, haemoglobin and cardiac output are integrated components of oxygen transport: each gram of haemoglobin transports 1.34 mls of oxygen in the blood. Low arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and haemoglobin saturation (SaO2), are the indices used in clinical assessments, and usually result from low inspired oxygen concentrations, or alveolar/airways disease. Our objective was to examine low blood oxygen/haemoglobin relationships in chronically compensated states without concurrent hypoxic pulmonary vasoreactivity. Methodology 165 consecutive unselected patients with pulmonary arteriovenous malformations were studied, in 98 cases, pre/post embolisation treatment. 159 (96%) had hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia. Arterial oxygen content was calculated by SaO2 x haemoglobin x 1.34/100. Principal Findings There was wide variation in SaO2 on air (78.5–99, median 95)% but due to secondary erythrocytosis and resultant polycythaemia, SaO2 explained only 0.1% of the variance in arterial oxygen content per unit blood volume. Secondary erythrocytosis was achievable with low iron stores, but only if serum iron was high-normal: Low serum iron levels were associated with reduced haemoglobin per erythrocyte, and overall arterial oxygen content was lower in iron deficient patients (median 16.0 [IQR 14.9, 17.4]mls/dL compared to 18.8 [IQR 17.4, 20.1]mls/dL, p<0.0001). Exercise tolerance appeared unrelated to SaO2 but was significantly worse in patients with lower oxygen content (p<0.0001). A pre-defined athletic group had higher Hb:SaO2 and serum iron:ferritin ratios than non-athletes with normal exercise capacity. PAVM embolisation increased SaO2, but arterial oxygen content was precisely restored by a subsequent fall in haemoglobin: 86 (87.8%) patients reported no change in exercise tolerance at post-embolisation follow-up. Significance Haemoglobin and oxygen measurements in isolation do not indicate the more physiologically relevant oxygen content per unit blood volume. This can be maintained for SaO2 ≥78.5%, and resets to the same arterial oxygen content after correction of hypoxaemia. Serum iron concentrations, not ferritin, seem to predict more successful polycythaemic responses. PMID:24637882

  4. The effect of high anionomer loading with silver nanowire catalysts on the oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline environment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lemke, Adam J.; O'Toole, Alexander W.; Phillips, Richard S.; Eisenbraun, Eric T.

    2014-06-01

    The effect of ionomer content on the oxygen kinetics in fuel cells and metal-oxide batteries was investigated by varying ionomer loading with constant loadings of a silver nanowire catalyst. Silver nanowire inks were produced in which commercially available anionomer solution constituted 10, 25, 40, 50, and 75% of the total ink volume. Constant loadings of Ag nanowire catalyst were then deposited onto glassy carbon electrodes by varying the amount of ink deposited. These were then used in rotating disc electrode (RDE) experiments using a 0.1 M KOH electrolyte solution. From these experiments, using ORR polarization curves and Koutecky-Levich analysis, it was found that not only did the anionomer loading affect the total activity (given a constant Ag nanowire loading) but, that the anionomer content also had an impact upon the apparent kinetic limited current as well as whether the ORR proceeded through the 2e- or 4e- pathway. Although the total activity declined with very high anionomer loadings, the ORR appeared to proceed more through the 4e- pathway with increased anionomer content.

  5. PTFE effect on the electrocatalysis of the oxygen reduction reaction in membraneless microbial fuel cells.

    PubMed

    Guerrini, Edoardo; Grattieri, Matteo; Faggianelli, Alessio; Cristiani, Pierangela; Trasatti, Stefano

    2015-12-01

    Influence of PTFE in the external Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) of open-air cathodes applied to membraneless microbial fuel cells (MFCs) is investigated in this work. Electrochemical measurements on cathodes with different PTFE contents (200%, 100%, 80% and 60%) were carried out to characterize cathodic oxygen reduction reaction, to study the reaction kinetics. It is demonstrated that ORR is not under diffusion-limiting conditions in the tested systems. Based on cyclic voltammetry, an increase of the cathodic electrochemical active area took place with the decrease of PTFE content. This was not directly related to MFC productivity, but to the cathode wettability and the biocathode development. Low electrodic interface resistances (from 1 to 1.5 Ω at the start, to near 0.1 Ω at day 61) indicated a negligible ohmic drop. A decrease of the Tafel slopes from 120 to 80 mV during productive periods of MFCs followed the biological activity in the whole MFC system. A high PTFE content in the cathode showed a detrimental effect on the MFC productivity, acting as an inhibitor of ORR electrocatalysis in the triple contact zone.

  6. Amplification and gas-dynamic parameters of the active oxygen-iodine medium produced by an ejector nozzle unit

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zagidullin, M V; Nikolaev, V D; Svistun, M I

    2001-08-31

    The gain, the temperature, and the absolute velocity of the supersonic active oxygen-iodine medium produced by an ejector nozzle unit were determined by the technique of high-resolution diode laser spectroscopy. The gain in the active medium is formed at less than 44 mm from the nozzle unit for an absolute flow velocity {nu} {approx} 600 m s{sup -1}. Upon dilution of oxygen by primary nitrogen in the ratio of 1 : 6.9, the gain of the active medium amounts to 7x10{sup -3} cm{sup -1}, the temperature of the active medium to 200 K, the absolute flow velocity to 580 mmore » s{sup -1}, and the pressure to 58 Torr. As the dilution is increased to 1 : 13.5, the gain reduces to 4.5x10{sup -3} cm{sup -1}, the temperature lowers to 180 K, the velocity of the active medium increases to 615 m s{sup -1}, and the pressure increases to 88 Torr. The increase in the initial content of water vapour in the oxygen flow results in an increase in the temperature and a decrease in the gain of the active medium. (active media)« less

  7. Effect of Ce2O3, La2O3 and ZnO additives on the oxygenates conversion into liquid hydrocarbons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kachalov, V. V.; Lavrenov, V. A.; Lishchiner, I. I.; Malova, O. V.; Tarasov, A. L.; Zaichenko, V. M.

    2018-01-01

    A selective modifying effect of cerium, magnesium and zinc oxide additives on the activity and the selectivity of a pentasil group zeolite catalyst in the reaction of conversion of oxygenates (methanol and dimethyl ether) to liquid hydrocarbons was found. It was found that zinc oxide contributes to the stable operation of the zeolite catalyst in the conversion of oxygenates in the synthesis gas stream and leads to the production of gasolines with low durene content (not more than 6.1 wt%). The obtained results demonstrate the rationale for producing hydrocarbons from synthesis gas without the stage of oxygenate separation with their subsequent conversion to synthetic gasoline.

  8. Effects of Extrinsic and Intrinsic Proton Activity on The Mechanism of Oxygen Reduction in Ionic Liquids

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zeller, Robert August

    Mechanisms for oxygen reduction are proposed for three distinct cases covering two ionic liquids of fundamentally different archetypes and almost thirty orders of magnitude of proton activity. Proton activity is treated both extrinsically by varying the concentration and intrinsically by selecting proton donors with a wide range of aqueous pKa values. The mechanism of oxygen reduction in ionic liquids is introduced by way of the protic ionic liquid (pIL) triethylammonium triflate (TEATf) which shares some similarities with aqueous acid solutions. Oxygen reduction in TEATf begins as the one electron rate limited step to form superoxide, O2 *-, which is then rapidly protonated by the pIL cation forming the perhydroxyl radical, HO2*. The perhydroxyl radical is further reduced to peroxidate (HO2-) and hydrogen peroxide in proportions in accordance with their pKa. The reaction does not proceed beyond this point due to the adsorption of the conjugate base triethylammine interfering with the disproportionation of hydrogen peroxide. This work demonstrates that this mechanism is consistent across Pt, Au, Pd, and Ag electrodes. Two related sets of experiments were performed in the inherently aprotic ionic liquid 1-butyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium triflate (C4dMImTf). The first involved the titration of acidic species of varying aqueous pKa into the IL while monitoring the extent of oxygen reduction as a function of pKa and potential on Pt and glassy carbon (GC) electrodes. These experiments confirmed the greater propensity of Pt to reduce oxygen by its immediate and abrupt transition from one electron reduction to four electron reduction, while oxygen reduction on GC gradually approaches four electron reduction as the potentials were driven more cathodic. The potential at which oxygen reduction initiates shows general agreement with the Nernst equation and the acid's tabulated aqueous pKa value, however at the extremely acidic end, a small deviation is observed. The second set of experiments in C4dMImTf solicited water as the proton donor for oxygen reduction in an approximation of the aqueous alkaline case. The water content was varied between extremely dry (<0.1 mol% H2O) and saturated (approximately 15.8 mol% H2O). As the water content increased so too did the extent of oxygen reduction eventually approach two electrons on both Pt and GC. However, additional water led to a linear increase in the Tafel slope under enhanced mass transport conditions up to the point of 10 mol% water. This inhibition of oxygen adsorption is the result of the interaction between superoxide and water and more specifically is proposed to be associated with decomposition of theC4dMIm + cation by hydroxide at the elevated temperatures required for the experiment. Oxygen reduction on both Pt and GC follows Nernstian behavior as the water content is increased. Separate mechanisms for oxygen reduction on Pt and GC are proposed based on the nature of the Nernstian response in these systems.

  9. A hybrid intelligent method for three-dimensional short-term prediction of dissolved oxygen content in aquaculture

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Huihui; Cheng, Yanjun; Cheng, Qianqian; Li, Daoliang

    2018-01-01

    A precise predictive model is important for obtaining a clear understanding of the changes in dissolved oxygen content in crab ponds. Highly accurate interval forecasting of dissolved oxygen content is fundamental to reduce risk, and three-dimensional prediction can provide more accurate results and overall guidance. In this study, a hybrid three-dimensional (3D) dissolved oxygen content prediction model based on a radial basis function (RBF) neural network, K-means and subtractive clustering was developed and named the subtractive clustering (SC)-K-means-RBF model. In this modeling process, K-means and subtractive clustering methods were employed to enhance the hyperparameters required in the RBF neural network model. The comparison of the predicted results of different traditional models validated the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed hybrid SC-K-means-RBF model for three-dimensional prediction of dissolved oxygen content. Consequently, the proposed model can effectively display the three-dimensional distribution of dissolved oxygen content and serve as a guide for feeding and future studies. PMID:29466394

  10. Assessment of the Antioxidant and Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Activity of Methanolic Extract of Caesalpinia crista Leaf

    PubMed Central

    Mandal, Sourav; Hazra, Bibhabasu; Sarkar, Rhitajit; Biswas, Santanu; Mandal, Nripendranath

    2011-01-01

    “Oxidative stress” is initiated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are responsible for majority of the diseases. However, antioxidants with ROS scavenging ability may have great relevance in the prevention of oxidative stress. The present study was undertaken, using a 70% methanolic extract of Caesalpinia crista leaves, to examine different in vitro tests in diversified fields including total antioxidant activity, scavenging activities for various ROS, iron chelating activity and phenolic and flavonoid contents. Total antioxidant activity was evaluated as trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity value of 0.546 ± 0.014. The extract was investigated for different ROS scavenging activities and IC50 values were found to be 0.44 ± 0.1 mg/ml, 24.9 ± 0.98 μg/ml, 33.72 ± 0.85 μg/ml, 61.13 ± 3.24 μg/mL and 170.51 ± 4.68 μg/mL for hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide, singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid, respectively; however, no significant results were obtained in scavenging of hydrogen peroxide and peroxynitrite anion. The extract was found to be a potent iron chelator with IC50 = 279.85 ± 4.72 μg/mL. The plant extract (100 mg) yielded 50.23 ± 0.003 mg/mL gallic acid equivalent phenolic content and 106.83 ± 0.0003 mg/mL quercetin equivalent flavonoid content. In the in vivo experiments, the extract treatment showed significant increase in the level of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase and reduced glutathione. In a word, it may be concluded that 70% methanol extract of C. crista leaves acts as an antioxidant and ROS scavenger; which may be due to the presence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. PMID:19596746

  11. Co@Co3O4 nanoparticle embedded nitrogen-doped carbon architectures as efficient bicatalysts for oxygen reduction and evolution reactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qi, Chunling; Zhang, Li; Xu, Guancheng; Sun, Zhipeng; Zhao, Aihua; Jia, Dianzeng

    2018-01-01

    The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) play crucial roles in efficient energy conversion and storage solutions. Here, Co@Co3O4 nanoparticle embedded nitrogen-doped carbon architectures (denoted as Co@Co3O4/NCs) are prepared via a simple two-step and in situ approach by carbonization and subsequent oxidation of Co-MOF containing high contents of carbon and nitrogen. When evaluated as electrocatalyst towards both ORR and OER in a KOH electrolyte solution, the as-fabricated Co@Co3O4/NC-2 exhibits similar ORR catalytic activity to the commercial Pt/C catalyst, but superior stability and good methanol tolerance. Furthermore, the as-fabricated catalysts also show promising catalytic activity for OER. The effective catalytic activities originate from the synergistic effects between well wrapped Co@Co3O4 nanoparticles and nitrogen doped carbon structures.

  12. Investigation of Oxygen Reduction Activity of Catalysts Derived from Co and Co/Zn Methyl-Imidazolate Frameworks in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chong, Lina; Goenaga, Gabriel A.; Williams, Kia

    We demonstrated that the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity over the catalysts derived from pyrolyzed cobalt zeolitic imidazolate frameworks depends strongly on the imidazole ligand structure and cobalt content. The activity and durability of these catalysts were tested in the proton exchange membrane fuel cell for the first time. The membrane electrode assembly containing a catalyst derived from Co/Zn bimetallic ZIF at cathode achieved an open circuit voltage of 0.93 V, a current density of 28 mA cm-2 at 0.8 ViR-free and a peak power density of 374 mW cm-2.

  13. The impact of oxygen on the final alcohol content of wine fermented by a mixed starter culture.

    PubMed

    Morales, Pilar; Rojas, Virginia; Quirós, Manuel; Gonzalez, Ramon

    2015-05-01

    We have developed a wine fermentation procedure that takes advantage of the metabolic features of a previously characterized Metschnikowia pulcherrima strain in order to reduce ethanol production. It involves the use of M. pulcherrima/Saccharomyces cerevisiae mixed cultures, controlled oxygenation conditions during the first 48 h of fermentation, and anaerobic conditions thereafter. The influence of different oxygenation regimes and initial inoculum composition on yeast physiology and final ethanol content was studied. The impact of oxygenation on yeast physiology goes beyond the first aerated step and influences yields and survival rates during the anaerobic stage. The activity of M. pulcherrima in mixed oxygenated cultures resulted in a clear reduction in ethanol yield, as compared to S. cerevisiae. Despite relatively low initial cell numbers, S. cerevisiae always predominated in mixed cultures by the end of the fermentation process. Strain replacement was faster under low oxygenation levels. M. pulcherrima confers an additional advantage in terms of dissolved oxygen, which drops to zero after a few hours of culture, even under highly aerated conditions, and this holds true for mixed cultures. Alcohol reduction values about 3.7 % (v/v) were obtained for mixed cultures under high aeration, but they were associated to unacceptable volatile acidity levels. In contrast, under optimized conditions, only 0.35 g/L acetic acid was produced, for an alcohol reduction of 2.2 % (v/v), and almost null dissolved oxygen during the process.

  14. PCDD/F catalysis by metal chlorides and oxides.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Mengmei; Yang, Jie; Buekens, Alfons; Olie, Kees; Li, Xiaodong

    2016-09-01

    Model fly ash (MFA) samples were composed of silica, sodium chloride, and activated carbon, and doped with metal (0.1 wt% Cu, Cr, Ni, Zn and Cd) chloride or oxide. Each sample was de novo tested at 350 °C for 1 h, in a flow of gas (N2, N2 + 10% O2, +21% O2 or +10% H2) to investigate the effect of metal catalyst and gas composition on PCDD/F formation. Total PCDD/F yield rises rapidly with oxygen content, while the addition of hydrogen inhibits the formation and chlorination of PCDD/F. The amount of PCDD on average rises linearly with the oxygen concentration, while that of PCDF follows a reaction order of about 1/2; thus the PCDF to PCDD ratio drops when more oxygen becomes available. Some samples do not follow this trend. Chlorides are much more active than oxides, yet there are marked differences between individual metals. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to study the signatures from all samples, showing their unique specificity and diversity. Each catalyst shows a different signature within its individual homologue groups, demonstrating that these signatures are not thermodynamically controlled. Average congener patterns do not vary considerably with oxygen content changing from oxidising (air) to reducing (nitrogen, hydrogen). Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. 46 CFR 39.40-5 - Operational requirements for vapor balancing-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... tanks have partial bulkheads, the oxygen content of each area of that tank formed by each partial... vapor collection system must be tested prior to cargo transfer to ensure that the oxygen content in the vapor space does not exceed 8 percent by volume. The oxygen content of each tank must be measured at a...

  16. Lipoic acid mitigates oxidative stress and recovers metabolic distortions in salt-stressed wheat seedlings by modulating ion homeostasis, the osmo-regulator level and antioxidant system.

    PubMed

    Gorcek, Zeynep; Erdal, Serkan

    2015-11-01

    Soil salinity is one of the most detrimental environmental factors affecting the growth of plants and limiting their agricultural productivity. This study investigated whether exogenous lipoic acid (LA) pretreatment plays a role in promoting salt tolerance in wheat seedlings. The seedlings were treated with LA (1.75 mmol L(-1)) and salt (100 mmol L(-1) NaCl) separately and a combination of them. Salt stress significantly reduced relative water content, leaf surface area, ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase expression, and chlorophyll content but increased the content of osmo-regulator protein, carbohydrates and proline. In addition, salinity led to an imbalance in the inorganic composition of wheat leaves. While it elevated Na(+) content compared to control, Ca content and K(+)/Na(+) ratio were reduced. Under saline conditions, despite increases in antioxidant enzyme activity and levels of antioxidant compounds (ascorbate and glutathione), the content of reactive oxygen species (superoxide anion, hydrogen peroxide) and malondialdehyde were higher than in control seedlings. LA significantly promoted osmo-regulator level and antioxidant enzyme activities compared to stressed seedlings alone. Also, it both increased levels of ascorbate and glutathione and regenerated their oxidised forms, thus contributing to maintaining cellular redox status. Similarly, LA prevented excessive accumulation of Na(+) and promoted K(+)/Na(+) ratio and Ca content. Reactive oxygen species content was significantly reduced, and the inhibitions in the above parameters markedly recovered. LA reduced salinity-induced oxidative damage and thus contributed to the growth and development of plants in saline soils by modulating ion homeostasis between plant and soil as well as in osmo-regulator content and antioxidant system. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.

  17. Effect of oxygen on weld shape and crystallographic orientation of duplex stainless steel weld using advanced A-TIG (AA-TIG) welding method

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zou, Ying, E-mail: yingzou@jwri.osaka-u.ac.jp; Ueji, Rintaro; Fujii, Hidetoshi

    The double-shielded advanced A-TIG (AA-TIG) welding method was adopted in this study for the welding of the SUS329J4L duplex stainless steel with the shielding gases of different oxygen content levels. The oxygen content in the shielding gas was controlled by altering the oxygen content in the outer layer gas, while the inner layer remained pure argon to suppress oxidation on the tungsten electrode. As a result, a deep weld penetration was obtained due to the dissolution of oxygen into the weld metals. Additionally, the microstructure of the weld metal was changed by the dissolution of oxygen. The austenite phase atmore » the ferrite grain boundary followed a Kurdjumov–Sachs (K–S) orientation relationship with the ferrite matrix phase at any oxide content. On the other hand, the orientation relationship between the intragranular austenite phase and the ferrite matrix phase exhibited different patterns under different oxygen content levels. When there was little oxide in the fusion zone, only a limited part of the intragranular austenite phase and the ferrite matrix phase followed the K–S orientation relationship. With the increase of the oxide, the correspondence of the K–S relationship increased and fit very well in the 2.5% O{sub 2} shielded sample. The investigation of this phenomenon was carried out along with the nucleation mechanisms of the intragranular austenite phases. - Highlights: • Weld penetration increased with the increase of the oxygen content. • Average diameter and number density of oxide were changed by the oxygen content. • K-S relationship of Widmanstätten austenite/ferrite wasn’t varied by oxide. • Orientation relationship of intragranular austenite/ferrite was varied by oxide.« less

  18. [Russian oxygen generation system "Elektron-VM": hydrogen content in electrolytically produced oxygen for breathing by International Space Station crews].

    PubMed

    Proshkin, V Yu; Kurmazenko, E A

    2014-01-01

    The article presents the particulars of hydrogen content in electrolysis oxygen produced aboard the ISS Russian segment by oxygen generator "Elektron-VM" (SGK) for crew breathing. Hydrogen content was estimated as in the course of SGK operation in the ISS RS, so during the ground life tests. According to the investigation of hydrogen sources, the primary path of H2 appearance in oxygen is its diffusion through the porous diaphragm separating the electrolytic-cell cathode and anode chambers. Effectiveness of hydrogen oxidation in the SGK reheating unit was evaluated.

  19. Enhancing perovskite electrocatalysis through strain tuning of oxygen deficiency

    DOE PAGES

    Barron, Sara C.; Lee, Ho Nyung; Petrie, Jonathan R.; ...

    2016-05-27

    Oxygen vacancies in transition-metal oxides facilitate catalysis critical for energy storage and generation. However, promoting vacancies at the lower temperatures required for operation in devices such as metal–air batteries and portable fuel cells has proven elusive. Here we used thin films of perovskite-based strontium cobaltite (SrCoO x) to show that epitaxial strain is a powerful tool for manipulating the oxygen content under conditions consistent with the oxygen evolution reaction, yielding increasingly oxygen-deficient states in an environment where the cobaltite would normally be fully oxidized. The additional oxygen vacancies created through tensile strain enhance the cobaltite’s catalytic activity toward this importantmore » reaction by over an order of magnitude, equaling that of precious-metal catalysts, including IrO2. Lastly, our findings demonstrate that strain in these oxides can dictate the oxygen stoichiometry independent of ambient conditions, allowing unprecedented control over oxygen vacancies essential in catalysis near room temperature.« less

  20. Hydrolates from lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)--their chemical composition as well as aromatic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

    PubMed

    Prusinowska, Renata; Śmigielski, Krzysztof; Stobiecka, Agnieszka; Kunicka-Styczyńska, Alina

    2016-01-01

    It was shown that the method for obtaining hydrolates from lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) influences the content of active compounds and the aromatic, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of the hydrolates. The content of volatile organic compounds ranged from 9.12 to 97.23 mg/100 mL of hydrolate. Lavender hydrolate variants showed low antimicrobial activity (from 0% to 0.05%). The radical scavenging activity of DPPH was from 3.6 ± 0.5% to 3.8 ± 0.6% and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC(FL)) results were from 0 to 266 μM Trolox equivalent, depending on the hydrolate variant.

  1. Impact of oxygen stoichiometry on electroforming and multiple switching modes in TiN/TaOx/Pt based ReRAM

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharath, S. U.; Joseph, M. J.; Vogel, S.; Hildebrandt, E.; Komissinskiy, P.; Kurian, J.; Schroeder, T.; Alff, L.

    2016-10-01

    We have investigated the material and electrical properties of tantalum oxide thin films (TaOx) with engineered oxygen contents grown by RF-plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy. The optical bandgap and the density of the TaOx films change consistently with oxygen contents in the range of 3.63 to 4.66 eV and 12.4 to 9.0 g/cm3, respectively. When exposed to atmosphere, an oxidized Ta2O5-y surface layer forms with a maximal thickness of 1.2 nm depending on the initial oxygen deficiency of the film. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies show that multiple sub-stoichiometric compositions occur in oxygen deficient TaOx thin films, where all valence states of Ta including metallic Ta are possible. Devices of the form Pt/Ta2O5-y/TaOx/TiN exhibit highly tunable forming voltages of 10.5 V to 1.5 V with decreasing oxygen contents in TaOx. While a stable bipolar resistive switching (BRS) occurs in all devices irrespective of oxygen content, unipolar switching was found to coexist with BRS only at higher oxygen contents, which transforms to a threshold switching behaviour in the devices grown under highest oxidation.

  2. Dissolved oxygen content prediction in crab culture using a hybrid intelligent method

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Huihui; Chen, Yingyi; Hassan, ShahbazGul; Li, Daoliang

    2016-01-01

    A precise predictive model is needed to obtain a clear understanding of the changing dissolved oxygen content in outdoor crab ponds, to assess how to reduce risk and to optimize water quality management. The uncertainties in the data from multiple sensors are a significant factor when building a dissolved oxygen content prediction model. To increase prediction accuracy, a new hybrid dissolved oxygen content forecasting model based on the radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN) data fusion method and a least squares support vector machine (LSSVM) with an optimal improved particle swarm optimization(IPSO) is developed. In the modelling process, the RBFNN data fusion method is used to improve information accuracy and provide more trustworthy training samples for the IPSO-LSSVM prediction model. The LSSVM is a powerful tool for achieving nonlinear dissolved oxygen content forecasting. In addition, an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm is developed to determine the optimal parameters for the LSSVM with high accuracy and generalizability. In this study, the comparison of the prediction results of different traditional models validates the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed hybrid RBFNN-IPSO-LSSVM model for dissolved oxygen content prediction in outdoor crab ponds. PMID:27270206

  3. Dissolved oxygen content prediction in crab culture using a hybrid intelligent method.

    PubMed

    Yu, Huihui; Chen, Yingyi; Hassan, ShahbazGul; Li, Daoliang

    2016-06-08

    A precise predictive model is needed to obtain a clear understanding of the changing dissolved oxygen content in outdoor crab ponds, to assess how to reduce risk and to optimize water quality management. The uncertainties in the data from multiple sensors are a significant factor when building a dissolved oxygen content prediction model. To increase prediction accuracy, a new hybrid dissolved oxygen content forecasting model based on the radial basis function neural networks (RBFNN) data fusion method and a least squares support vector machine (LSSVM) with an optimal improved particle swarm optimization(IPSO) is developed. In the modelling process, the RBFNN data fusion method is used to improve information accuracy and provide more trustworthy training samples for the IPSO-LSSVM prediction model. The LSSVM is a powerful tool for achieving nonlinear dissolved oxygen content forecasting. In addition, an improved particle swarm optimization algorithm is developed to determine the optimal parameters for the LSSVM with high accuracy and generalizability. In this study, the comparison of the prediction results of different traditional models validates the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed hybrid RBFNN-IPSO-LSSVM model for dissolved oxygen content prediction in outdoor crab ponds.

  4. Effects of activated carbon surface chemistry and pore structure on the adsorption of trace organic contaminants from aqueous solution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Lei

    The objectives were (1) to identify activated pore structure and surface chemistry characteristics that assure the effective removal of trace organic contaminants from aqueous-solution, and (2) to develop a procedure to predict the adsorption capacity of activated carbons from fundamental adsorbent and adsorbate properties. A matrix of activated carbon fibers (ACFs) (with three activation levels and four surface chemistry levels) and three commercially available granular activated carbons (GACs) served as the adsorbents. BET surface area, pore size distribution, elemental composition, point of zero charge and infrared spectroscopy data were obtained to characterize the adsorbents. The adsorption of relative hydrophilic methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) and relative hydrophobic trichloroethene (TCE) were conducted in both ultrapure water and Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta water. The results showed that an effective adsorbent for the removal of micropollutants from water requires (1) a large volume of micropores with widths that are about 1.5 times larger than the kinetic diameter of the target adsorbate, (2) a micropore size distribution that extends to widths that are approximately twice the kinetic diameter of the target adsorbate to prevent pore blockage by NOM, and (3) a hydrophobic pore surface chemistry with the sum of oxygen and nitrogen contents less than 2 to 3 mmol/g. A procedure based on the Polanyi Potential Theory (PPT) was developed to predict the adsorption capacities of activated carbons from fundamental adsorbent and adsorbate properties. A correlation between the coalescing factor for water adsorption and adsorbent oxygen content was developed. Based on this correlation, the PPT yielded reasonable estimates of aqueous phase adsorption capacities for both relatively polar and non-polar adsorbates on both relatively hydrophobic and hydrophilic activated carbons. With the developed procedure, the adsorption capacities of organic compounds that are partially miscible in water can be predicted from (1) N2 and CO2 adsorption isotherms of a given adsorbent, (2) the adsorbent oxygen content, and (3) the molar volume and parachor of the target adsorbate.

  5. Methane combustion reactivity during the metal→metallic oxide transformation of Pd-Pt catalysts: Effect of oxygen pressure

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qi, Wenjie; Ran, Jingyu; Zhang, Zhien; Niu, Juntian; Zhang, Peng; Fu, Lijuan; Hu, Bo; Li, Qilai

    2018-03-01

    Density functional theory combined with kinetic models were used to probe different kinetics consequences by which methane activation on different oxygen chemical potential surfaces as oxygen pressure increased. The metallic oxide → metal transformation temperature of Pd-Pt catalysts increased with the increase of the Pd content or/and O2 pressure. The methane conversion rate on Pt catalyst increased and then decreased to a constant value when increasing the O2 pressure, and Pd catalyst showed a poor activity performance in the case of low O2 pressure. Moreover, its activity increased as the oxygen chemical potential for O2 pressure increased in the range of 2.5-10 KPa. For metal clusters, the Csbnd H bond and Odbnd O bond activation steps occurred predominantly on *-* site pairs. The methane conversion rate was determined by O2 pressure because the adsorbed O atoms were rapidly consumed by other adsorbed species in this kinetic regime. As the O2 pressure increased, the metallic active sites for methane activation were decreased and there was no longer lack of adsorbed O atoms, resulting in the decrease of the methane conversion rate. Furthermore, when the metallic surfaces were completely covered by adsorbed oxygen atoms at higher oxygen chemical potentials, Pt catalyst showed a poor activity due to a high Csbnd H bond activation barrier on O*sbnd O*. In the case of high O2 pressure, Pd atoms preferred to segregate to the active surface of Pd-Pt catalysts, leading to the formation of PdO surfaces. The increase of Pd segregation promoted a subsequent increase in active sites and methane conversion rate. The PdO was much more active than metallic and O* saturated surfaces for methane activation, inferred from the theory and experimental study. Pd-rich bimetallic catalyst (75% molar Pd) showed a dual high methane combustion activity on O2-poor and O2-rich conditions.

  6. APR3 modulates oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in ARPE-19 cells.

    PubMed

    Li, Yuan; Zou, Xuan; Gao, Jing; Cao, Ke; Feng, Zhihui; Liu, Jiankang

    2018-05-24

    Impairment of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells is considered a key contributor to the development of age-related macular degeneration. Apoptosis-related protein 3 (APR3) was recently discovered after treatment with all- trans retinoic acid, a pivotal molecule in RPE cells. However, the function of APR3 remains poorly understood. In the present study, we found that APR3 could interact with nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2, which is a regulator of phase II enzymes, and that knockdown of APR3 promoted nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 nuclear translocation and activated expression of phase II enzymes, which was accompanied by improved redox status and mitochondrial activity. Overexpression of APR3 revealed its mitochondrial localization and induced a robust production of reactive oxygen species that was accompanied by impaired mitochondrial oxygen consumption, complex activity, and lower ATP content, resulting in significant changes in mitochondrial structure, which may contribute to cell apoptosis. High doses of all- trans retinoic acid treatment were found to significantly induce APR3 expression, increase reactive oxygen species levels, and decrease ATP content, which were abolished by knockdown of APR3. These results indicate that APR3 plays a vital role in regulating redox status and mitochondrial activity and thus suggest APR3 might be a potential novel target for study of treatment of age-related macular degeneration.-Li, Y., Zou, X., Gao, J., Cao, K., Feng, Z., Liu, J. APR3 modulates oxidative stress and mitochondrial function in ARPE-19 cells.

  7. Studies of protein oxidation as a product quality attribute on a scale-down model for cell culture process development.

    PubMed

    Lee, Nacole D; Kondragunta, Bhargavi; Uplekar, Shaunak; Vallejos, Jose; Moreira, Antonio; Rao, Govind

    2015-01-01

    Of importance to the biological properties of proteins produced in cell culture systems are the complex post-translational modifications that are affected by variations in process conditions. Protein oxidation, oxidative modification to intracellular proteins that involves cleavage of the polypeptide chain, and modifications of the amino acid side chains can be affected by such process variations. Dissolved oxygen is a parameter of increasing interest since studies have shown that despite the necessity of oxygen for respiration, there may also be some detrimental effects of oxygen to the cell. Production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species can cause damage to proteins as a result of oxidation of the cell and cellular components. Variation, or changes to cell culture products, can affect function, clearance rate, immunogenicity, and specific activity, which translates into clinical implications. The effect of increasing dissolved oxygen on protein oxidation in immunoglobulin G3-producing mouse hybridoma cells was studied using 50 mL high-throughput mini-bioreactors that employ non-invasive optical sensor technology for monitoring and closed feedback control of pH and dissolved oxygen. Relative protein carbonyl concentration of proteins produced under varying levels of dissolved oxygen was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and used as an indicator of oxidative damage. A trend of increasing protein carbonyl content in response to increasing dissolved oxygen levels under controlled conditions was observed. Protein oxidation, oxidative modification to intracellular proteins that involves cleavage of the polypeptide chain, and modifications of the amino acid side chains can be affected by variations in dissolved oxygen levels in cell culture systems. Studies have shown that despite the necessity of oxygen for respiration, there may be detrimental effects of oxygen to the cell. Production and accumulation of reactive oxygen species can cause damage to proteins as a result of oxidation of the cell and cellular components, affecting function, clearance rate, immunogenicity, and specific activity, which translates into clinical implications. The effect of increasing dissolved oxygen on protein oxidation in immunoglobulin G3-producing mouse hybridoma cells was studied using 50 mL high-throughput mini-bioreactors that employ non-invasive optical sensor technology for monitoring and closed feedback control of pH and dissolved oxygen. Protein carbonyl concentration of proteins produced under varying levels of dissolved oxygen was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and used as an indicator of oxidative damage. A trend of increasing protein carbonyl content in response to increasing dissolved oxygen levels under controlled conditions was observed. © PDA, Inc. 2015.

  8. Gas exchange in fruits related to skin condition and fruit ripening studied with diode laser spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Jing; Zhang, Hao; Lin, Huiying; Li, Tianqi; Mei, Liang; Svanberg, Katarina; Svanberg, Sune

    2016-12-01

    The concentration of the biologically active molecular oxygen gas is of crucial importance for fruits in the metabolic respiration, maturation, and ripening processes. In our study, oxygen content and oxygen transport in fruits, exemplified by apples and guavas, were studied noninvasively by gas in scattering media absorption spectroscopy. The technique is based on the fact that free gases typically have 10,000 times narrower absorption features than the bulk material. The technique was demonstrated in studies of the influence of the fruit skin in regulating the internal oxygen balance, by observing the signal response of the internal oxygen gas to a transient change in the ambient gas concentration on peeled and unpeeled fruits. In addition, the gas exchange rate at different ripening stages was also studied in intact guavas.

  9. Gas exchange in fruits related to skin condition and fruit ripening studied with diode laser spectroscopy.

    PubMed

    Huang, Jing; Zhang, Hao; Lin, Huiying; Li, Tianqi; Mei, Liang; Svanberg, Katarina; Svanberg, Sune

    2016-12-01

    The concentration of the biologically active molecular oxygen gas is of crucial importance for fruits in the metabolic respiration, maturation, and ripening processes. In our study, oxygen content and oxygen transport in fruits, exemplified by apples and guavas, were studied noninvasively by gas in scattering media absorption spectroscopy. The technique is based on the fact that free gases typically have 10,000 times narrower absorption features than the bulk material. The technique was demonstrated in studies of the influence of the fruit skin in regulating the internal oxygen balance, by observing the signal response of the internal oxygen gas to a transient change in the ambient gas concentration on peeled and unpeeled fruits. In addition, the gas exchange rate at different ripening stages was also studied in intact guavas.

  10. Cardiomyocyte hypertrophy induced by Endonuclease G deficiency requires reactive oxygen radicals accumulation and is inhibitable by the micropeptide humanin.

    PubMed

    Blasco, Natividad; Cámara, Yolanda; Núñez, Estefanía; Beà, Aida; Barés, Gisel; Forné, Carles; Ruíz-Meana, Marisol; Girón, Cristina; Barba, Ignasi; García-Arumí, Elena; García-Dorado, David; Vázquez, Jesús; Martí, Ramon; Llovera, Marta; Sanchis, Daniel

    2018-06-01

    The endonuclease G gene (Endog), which codes for a mitochondrial nuclease, was identified as a determinant of cardiac hypertrophy. How ENDOG controls cardiomyocyte growth is still unknown. Thus, we aimed at finding the link between ENDOG activity and cardiomyocyte growth. Endog deficiency induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and abnormal growth in neonatal rodent cardiomyocytes, altering the AKT-GSK3β and Class-II histone deacethylases (HDAC) signal transduction pathways. These effects were blocked by ROS scavengers. Lack of ENDOG reduced mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication independently of ROS accumulation. Because mtDNA encodes several subunits of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, whose activity is an important source of cellular ROS, we investigated whether Endog deficiency compromised the expression and activity of the respiratory chain complexes but found no changes in these parameters nor in ATP content. MtDNA also codes for humanin, a micropeptide with possible metabolic functions. Nanomolar concentrations of synthetic humanin restored normal ROS levels and cell size in Endog-deficient cardiomyocytes. These results support the involvement of redox signaling in the control of cardiomyocyte growth by ENDOG and suggest a pathway relating mtDNA content to the regulation of cell growth probably involving humanin, which prevents reactive oxygen radicals accumulation and hypertrophy induced by Endog deficiency. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  11. OXYGEN DISSOCIATION OF WHOLE BLOOD STUDIED POLAROGRAPHICALLY

    PubMed Central

    Markus, Gabor; Baumberger, J. Percy

    1952-01-01

    The polarographic current of whole blood is in excess of that given by plasma at the same oxygen tension. The magnitude of this difference depends on (a) the oxygen content of the sample and thus is determined by the red blood cell content and by the state of oxygen saturation of hemoglobin, and (b) on the rate of dissociation of oxyhemoglobin and therefore is influenced by changes in pH, pCO2, and temperature. The total current at 37°C. is proportional to the oxygen content of the sample and can be used to determine the latter. The theoretical basis of the studied phenomena is discussed in detail. PMID:13011281

  12. Phytochemical Contents and Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Selected Black and White Sesame Seeds

    PubMed Central

    Abbasi, Arshad Mehmood; Zheng, Bisheng

    2016-01-01

    Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) seeds are popular nutritional food but with limited knowledge about their antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of various varieties. Phytochemical profiles and antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of six varieties of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) seeds were studied. Fenheizhi3 (black) cultivar exhibited the maximum contents of total phenolics and lignans and values of total oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and antiproliferative activity (EC50) against HepG2 cells. Bound ORAC values showed strong associations with bound phenolics contents (r = 0.976, p < 0.01); in bound phenolic extracts, EC50 values showed strong negative associations with phenolic contents (r = −0.869, p < 0.05) and ORAC values (r = −0.918, p < 0.01). Moreover, the contents of free phenolics were higher than that of the bound phenolics, and the three black sesame seeds generally depicted higher total phenolics compared to the three white varieties. The antioxidant (ORAC values) and antiproliferation activities of six sesame seeds were both associated with contents of bound phenolics (r > 0.8, p < 0.05). Interestingly, nonlignan components in bound phenolics contributed to the antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. This study suggested that Fenheizhi3 variety is superior to the other five varieties as antioxidant supplements. PMID:27597975

  13. Oxygen-vacancy-mediated dielectric property in perovskite Eu0.5Ba0.5TiO3-δ epitaxial thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Weiwei; Gu, Junxing; He, Qian; Zhang, Kelvin H. L.; Wang, Chunchang; Jin, Kuijuan; Wang, Yongqiang; Acosta, Matias; Wang, Haiyan; Borisevich, Albina Y.; MacManus-Driscoll, Judith L.; Yang, Hao

    2018-04-01

    Dielectric relaxation in ABO3 perovskite oxides can result from many different charge carrier-related phenomena. Despite a strong understanding of dielectric relaxations, a detailed investigation of the relationship between the content of oxygen vacancies (VO) and dielectric relaxation has not been performed in perovskite oxide films. In this work, we report a systematic investigation of the influence of the VO concentration on the dielectric relaxation of Eu0.5Ba0.5TiO3-δ epitaxial thin films. Nuclear resonance backscattering spectrometry was used to directly measure the oxygen concentration in Eu0.5Ba0.5TiO3-δ films. We found that dipolar defects created by VO interact with the off-centered Ti ions, which results in the dielectric relaxation in Eu0.5Ba0.5TiO3-δ films. Activation energy gradually increases with the increasing content of VO. The present work significantly extends our understanding of relaxation properties in oxide films.

  14. The effects of nickel and sulphur on the core-mantle partitioning of oxygen in Earth and Mars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tsuno, Kyusei; Frost, Daniel J.; Rubie, David C.

    2011-03-01

    Constraints on the partitioning of oxygen between silicates, oxides, and metallic liquids are important for determining the amount of oxygen that may have entered the cores of terrestrial planets and to identify likely reactions at the core-mantle boundary. Several previous studies have examined oxygen partitioning between liquid Fe metal and ferropericlase, however, the cores of terrestrial planets also contain nickel and most likely sulphur. We have performed experiments to examine the effects of both nickel and sulphur on the partitioning of oxygen between ferropericlase and liquid Fe alloy up to pressures of 24.5 GPa in the temperature range 2430-2750 K using a multianvil press. The results show that at a fixed oxygen fugacity the proportion of oxygen that partitions into liquid metal will decrease by approximately 1-2 mol% on the addition of 10-20 mol% nickel to the liquid. The addition of around 30 mol% sulphur will, on the other hand, increase the metal oxygen content by approximately 10 mol%. Experiments to examine the combined effects of both nickel and sulphur, show a decrease in the effect of nickel on oxygen partitioning as the sulphur content of the metal increases. We expand an existing thermodynamic model for the partitioning of oxygen at high pressures and temperatures to include the effects of nickel and sulphur by fitting these experimental data, with further constraints provided by existing phase equilibria studies at similar conditions in the Fe-S and Fe-O-S systems. Plausible terrestrial core sulphur contents have little effect on oxygen partitioning. When our model is extrapolated to conditions of the present day terrestrial core-mantle boundary, the presence of nickel is found to lower the oxygen content of the outer core that is in equilibrium with the expected mantle ferropericlase FeO content, by approximately 1 weight %, in comparison to nickel free calculations. In agreement with nickel-free experiments, this implies that the Earth's outer core is undersaturated in oxygen with respect to plausible mantle FeO contents, which will result in either the depletion of FeO from the base of the mantle or cause the development of an outer core layer that is enriched in oxygen. The oxygen content of the more sulphur-rich Martian core would be in the range 2-4 wt.% if it is in equilibrium with the FeO-rich Martian mantle.

  15. Effect of oxygen content of Nd-Fe-B sintered magnet on grain boundary diffusion process of DyH2 dip-coating

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bae, Kyoung-Hoon; Lee, Seong-Rae; Kim, Hyo-Jun; Lee, Min-Woo; Jang, Tae-Suk

    2015-11-01

    We investigated the effect of oxygen content on the microstructural and magnetic properties of a DyH2 dip-coated Nd-Fe-B sintered magnet. When the magnet had a low oxygen content (1500 ppm), the volume and size of the rare-earth-rich oxide (Nd-Dy-O) phase was reduced, and a uniform and continuous thin Nd-rich grain boundary phase (GBP) was well developed. The grain boundary diffusion depth of Dy increased from 200 to 350 μm with decreasing oxygen content from ˜3000 to 1500 ppm. The coercivity of the low-oxygen magnet increased from 19.98 to 23.59 kOe after grain boundary diffusion process (GBDP) while the remanence reduction was minimized. The formation of an fcc-NdOx Nd-rich phase in the high-oxygen magnet hindered the formation of a Nd-rich triple-junction phase and GBP. In contrast, a metallic dhcp-Nd phase, which was closely related to coercivity enhancement after GBDP, was formed in the low-oxygen magnet.

  16. A Simple Experiment To Measure the Content of Oxygen in the Air Using Heated Steel Wool

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Vera, Francisco; Rivera, Rodrigo; Nunez, Cesar

    2011-01-01

    The typical experiment to measure the oxygen content in the atmosphere uses the rusting of steel wool inside a closed volume of air. Two key aspects of this experiment that make possible a successful measurement of the content of oxygen in the air are the use of a closed atmosphere and the use of a chemical reaction that involves the oxidation of…

  17. Development of a Self-calibrating Dissolved Oxygen Microsensor Array for the Monitoring and Control of Plant Growth in a Space Environment

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Kim, Chang-Soo; Brown, Christopher S.; Nagle, H. Troy

    2004-01-01

    Plant experiments in space will require active nutrient delivery concepts in which water and nutrients are replenished on a continuous basis for long-term growth. The goal of this study is to develop a novel microsensor array to provide information on the dissolved oxygen environment in the plant root zone for the optimum control of plant cultivation systems in the space environment. Control of water and oxygen is limited by the current state-of-the-art in sensor technology. Two capabilities of the new microsensor array were tested. First, a novel in situ self-diagnosis/self-calibration capability for the microsensor was explored by dynamically controlling the oxygen microenvironment in close proximity to an amperometric dissolved oxygen microsensors. A pair of integrated electrochemical actuator electrodes provided the microenvironments based on water electrolysis. Miniaturized thin film dissolved oxygen microsensors on a flexible polyimide (Kapton(Registered Trademark)? substrate were fabricated and their performances were tested. Secondly, measurements of dissolved oxygen in two representative plant growth systems were made, which had not been performed previously due to lack of proper sensing technology. The responses of the oxygen microsensor array on a flexible polymer substrate properly reflected the oxygen contents on the surface of a porous tube nutrient delivery system and within a particulate substrate system. Additionally, we demonstrated the feasibility of using a 4-point thin film microprobe for water contents measurements for both plant growth systems. mechanical flexibility, and self-diagnosis. The proposed technology is anticipated to provide a reliable sensor feedback plant growth nutrient delivery systems in both terrestrial environment and the microgravity environment during long term space missions. The unique features of the sensor include small size and volume, multiple-point sensing,

  18. Characteristics of maize biochar with different pyrolysis temperatures and its effects on organic carbon, nitrogen and enzymatic activities after addition to fluvo-aquic soil.

    PubMed

    Wang, Xiubin; Zhou, Wei; Liang, Guoqing; Song, Dali; Zhang, Xiaoya

    2015-12-15

    In this study, the characteristics of maize biochar produced at different pyrolysis temperatures (300, 450 and 600°C) and its effects on organic carbon, nitrogen and enzymatic activities after addition to fluvo-aquic soil were investigated. As pyrolysis temperature increased, ash content, pH, electrical conductivity, surface area, pore volume and aromatic carbon content of biochar increased while yield, ratios of oxygen:carbon and hydrogen: carbon and alkyl carbon content decreased. During incubation, SOC, total N, and ammonium-N contents increased in all biochar-amended treatments compared with the urea treatment; however, soil nitrate-N content first increased and then decreased with increasing pyrolysis temperature of the applied biochar. Extracellular enzyme activities associated with carbon transformation first increased and then decreased with biochars pyrolyzed at 450 and 600°C. Protease activity markedly increased with increased pyrolysis temperatures, whereas pyrolysis temperature had limited effect on soil urease activity. The results indicated that the responses of extracellular enzymes to biochar were dependent on the pyrolysis temperature, the enzyme itself and incubation time as well. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  19. Antioxidant potential, tannin and polyphenol contents of seed and pericarp of three Coffea species.

    PubMed

    Patay, Éva Brigitta; Sali, Nikolett; Kőszegi, Tamás; Csepregi, Rita; Balázs, Viktória Lilla; Németh, Tibor Sebastian; Németh, Tibor; Papp, Nóra

    2016-04-01

    To investigate the antioxidant activity, total phenolic and total tannin content of the pericarp and the seed of Coffea benghalensis (C. benghalensis) and Coffea liberica compared to Coffea arabica (C. arabica). The antioxidant potential, total tannin and polyphenol contents of the immature and mature seed and pericarp of C. benghalensis and Coffea liberica were quantified and compared to C. arabica. Enhanced chemiluminescence (ECL), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), oxygen radical absorbance capacity, Folin-Ciocalteau method and total tannin content assays were used. Trolox equivalent (TE/g plant material) values obtained by ECL and DPPH methods showed loose correlation (r(2) = 0.587) while those measured by oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay were higher without correlation in each plant. A closer correlation was detected between the ECL method and the percentage antioxidant activity of the DPPH technique (r(2) = 0.610 7) in each species, however the immature pericarp of C. benghalensis showed much higher DPPH scavenging potential than was seen in the ECL assay. The immature pericarp of C. benghalensis expressed the highest tannin and polyphenol content, and a high polyphenol level was also detected in the immature seed of C. arabica. The immature pericarp of Bengal and Liberian coffees showed the largest amount of phenolic contents. The obtained data highlight the potential role of C. benghalensis as a new source of natural antioxidants and polyphenols compared to C. arabica. Copyright © 2016 Hainan Medical College. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Method to Estimate the Dissolved Air Content in Hydraulic Fluid

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hauser, Daniel M.

    2011-01-01

    In order to verify the air content in hydraulic fluid, an instrument was needed to measure the dissolved air content before the fluid was loaded into the system. The instrument also needed to measure the dissolved air content in situ and in real time during the de-aeration process. The current methods used to measure the dissolved air content require the fluid to be drawn from the hydraulic system, and additional offline laboratory processing time is involved. During laboratory processing, there is a potential for contamination to occur, especially when subsaturated fluid is to be analyzed. A new method measures the amount of dissolved air in hydraulic fluid through the use of a dissolved oxygen meter. The device measures the dissolved air content through an in situ, real-time process that requires no additional offline laboratory processing time. The method utilizes an instrument that measures the partial pressure of oxygen in the hydraulic fluid. By using a standardized calculation procedure that relates the oxygen partial pressure to the volume of dissolved air in solution, the dissolved air content is estimated. The technique employs luminescent quenching technology to determine the partial pressure of oxygen in the hydraulic fluid. An estimated Henry s law coefficient for oxygen and nitrogen in hydraulic fluid is calculated using a standard method to estimate the solubility of gases in lubricants. The amount of dissolved oxygen in the hydraulic fluid is estimated using the Henry s solubility coefficient and the measured partial pressure of oxygen in solution. The amount of dissolved nitrogen that is in solution is estimated by assuming that the ratio of dissolved nitrogen to dissolved oxygen is equal to the ratio of the gas solubility of nitrogen to oxygen at atmospheric pressure and temperature. The technique was performed at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. The technique could be theoretically carried out at higher pressures and elevated temperatures.

  1. Total hydrocarbon content (THC) testing in liquid oxygen (LOX) systems

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meneghelli, B. J.; Obregon, R. E.; Ross, H. R.; Hebert, B. J.; Sass, J. P.; Dirschka, G. E.

    2015-12-01

    The measured Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC) levels in liquid oxygen (LOX) systems at Stennis Space Center (SSC) have shown wide variations. Examples of these variations include the following: 1) differences between vendor-supplied THC values and those obtained using standard SSC analysis procedures; and 2) increasing THC values over time at an active SSC test stand in both storage and run vessels. A detailed analysis of LOX sampling techniques, analytical instrumentation, and sampling procedures will be presented. Additional data obtained on LOX system operations and LOX delivery trailer THC values during the past 12-24 months will also be discussed. Field test results showing THC levels and the distribution of the THC's in the test stand run tank, modified for THC analysis via dip tubes, will be presented.

  2. Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC) Testing in Liquid Oxygen (LOX)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Meneghelli, B. J.; Obregon, R. E.; Ross, H. R.; Hebert, B. J.; Sass, J. P.; Dirschka, G. E.

    2016-01-01

    The measured Total Hydrocarbon Content (THC) levels in liquid oxygen (LOX) systems at Stennis Space Center (SSC) have shown wide variations. Examples of these variations include the following: 1) differences between vendor-supplied THC values and those obtained using standard SSC analysis procedures; and 2) increasing THC values over time at an active SSC test stand in both storage and run vessels. A detailed analysis of LOX sampling techniques, analytical instrumentation, and sampling procedures will be presented. Additional data obtained on LOX system operations and LOX delivery trailer THC values during the past 12-24 months will also be discussed. Field test results showing THC levels and the distribution of the THC's in the test stand run tank, modified for THC analysis via dip tubes, will be presented.

  3. Effects of Oxygen Element and Oxygen-Containing Functional Groups on Surface Wettability of Coal Dust with Various Metamorphic Degrees Based on XPS Experiment

    PubMed Central

    Zhou, Gang; Xu, Cuicui; Cheng, Weimin; Zhang, Qi; Nie, Wen

    2015-01-01

    To investigate the difference of surface oxygen element and oxygen-containing functional groups among coal dusts with different metamorphic degrees and their influence on surface wettability, a series of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy experiments on 6 coal samples are carried out. The result demonstrates that the O/C ratio of coal surface shows an overall increasing trend compared with the result of its elements analysis. As the metamorphic degree increases, the O/C ratio on the surface gradually declines and the hydrophilic groups tend to fall off from coal surface. It could be found that different coals show different surface distributions of carboxyl and hydroxyl which are considered as the greatest promoter to the wettability of coal surface. With the change of metamorphic degree, the distribution of ether group is irregular while the carbonyl distribution keeps stable. In general, as the metamorphic degree goes higher, the content of oxygen-containing polar group tends to reduce. According to the measurement results, the contact angle is negatively related to the content of oxygen element, surface oxygen, and polar groups. In addition, compared with surface oxygen content, the content of oxygen-containing polar group serves as a more reasonable indicator of coal dust wettability. PMID:26257980

  4. [ATP-synthetase activity, respiration and cytochromes of rat heart mitochondria in aging and hyperthyroidism].

    PubMed

    Lemeshko, V V; Kaliman, P A; Belostotskaia, L I; Uchitel', A A

    1982-04-01

    The ATP-synthetase activity, the rate of oxygen uptake under different metabolic conditions, the tightness of coupling of respiration to oxidative phosphorylation and the cytochrome contents in heart mitochondria of rats from different age groups were studied under normal conditions and in hyperthyroidism. It was found that heart mitochondria of aged animals did not practically differ in terms of their functional activity from those of the young animals. Administration of thyroxin to the animals from all age groups produced no significant effects on the state of mitochondria, increasing the rate of ATP synthesis on alpha-glycerophosphate, which was especially well-pronounced in aged animals, and the cytochrome content in 1-month-old rats.

  5. Cysteine protects rabbit spermatozoa against reactive oxygen species-induced damages

    PubMed Central

    Fan, Xiaoteng; Pan, Yang; Lv, Shan; Pan, Chuanying; Lei, Anmin

    2017-01-01

    The process of cryopreservation results in over-production of reactive oxygen species, which is extremely detrimental to spermatozoa. The aim of this study was to investigate whether addition of cysteine to freezing extender would facilitate the cryosurvival of rabbit spermatozoa, and if so, how cysteine protects spermatozoa from cryodamages. Freshly ejaculated semen was diluted with Tris-citrate-glucose extender supplemented with different concentrations of cysteine. The motility, intact acrosomes, membrane integrity, mitochondrial potentials, 8-hydroxyguanosine level and sperm-zona pellucida binding capacity were examined. Furthermore, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, glutathione content (GSH), and level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen peroxide of spermatozoa were analyzed. The values of motility, intact acrosomes, membrane integrity, mitochondrial potentials and sperm-zona pellucida binding capacity of the frozen-thawed spermatozoa in the treatment of cysteine were significantly higher than those of the control. Addition of cysteine to extenders improved the GPx activity and GSH content of spermatozoa, while lowered the ROS, DNA oxidative alterations and lipid peroxidation level, which makes spermatozoa avoid ROS to attack DNA, the plasma membrane and mitochondria. In conclusion, cysteine protects spermatozoa against ROS-induced damages during cryopreservation and post-thaw incubation. Addition of cysteine is recommended to facilitate the improvement of semen preservation for the rabbit breeding industry. PMID:28700739

  6. The Effects of New Alibernet Red Wine Extract on Nitric Oxide and Reactive Oxygen Species Production in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats

    PubMed Central

    Kondrashov, Alexey; Vranková, Stanislava; Dovinová, Ima; Ševčík, Rudolf; Parohová, Jana; Barta, Andrej; Pecháňová, Olga; Kovacsová, Maria

    2012-01-01

    We aimed to perform a chemical analysis of both Alibernet red wine and an alcohol-free Alibernet red wine extract (AWE) and to investigate the effects of AWE on nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species production as well as blood pressure development in normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). Total antioxidant capacity together with total phenolic and selected mineral content was measured in wine and AWE. Young 6-week-old male WKY and SHR were treated with AWE (24,2 mg/kg/day) for 3 weeks. Total NOS and SOD activities, eNOS and SOD1 protein expressions, and superoxide production were determined in the tissues. Both antioxidant capacity and phenolic content were significantly higher in AWE compared to wine. The AWE increased NOS activity in the left ventricle, aorta, and kidney of SHR, while it did not change NOS activity in WKY rats. Similarly, increased SOD activity in the plasma and left ventricle was observed in SHR only. There were no changes in eNOS and SOD1 expressions. In conclusion, phenolics and minerals included in AWE may contribute directly to increased NOS and SOD activities of SHR. Nevertheless, 3 weeks of AWE treatment failed to affect blood pressure of SHR. PMID:22720118

  7. Temperature dependence of the electrode kinetics of oxygen reduction at the platinum/Nafion interface - A microelectrode investigation

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Parthasarathy, Arvind; Srinivasan, Supramanian; Appleby, A. J.; Martin, Charles R.

    1992-01-01

    Results of a study of the temperature dependence of the oxygen reduction kinetics at the Pt/Nafion interface are presented. This study was carried out in the temperature range of 30-80 C and at 5 atm of oxygen pressure. The results showed a linear increase of the Tafel slope with temperature in the low current density region, but the Tafel slope was found to be independent of temperature in the high current density region. The values of the activation energy for oxygen reduction at the platinum/Nafion interface are nearly the same as those obtained at the platinum/trifluoromethane sulfonic acid interface but less than values obtained at the Pt/H3PO4 and Pt/HClO4 interfaces. The diffusion coefficient of oxygen in Nafion increases with temperature while its solubility decreases with temperature. These temperatures also depend on the water content of the membrane.

  8. Radical scavenger can scavenge lipid allyl radicals complexed with lipoxygenase at lower oxygen content.

    PubMed

    Koshiishi, Ichiro; Tsuchida, Kazunori; Takajo, Tokuko; Komatsu, Makiko

    2006-04-15

    Lipoxygenases have been proposed to be a possible factor that is responsible for the pathology of certain diseases, including ischaemic injury. In the peroxidation process of linoleic acid by lipoxygenase, the E,Z-linoleate allyl radical-lipoxygenase complex seems to be generated as an intermediate. In the present study, we evaluated whether E,Z-linoleate allyl radicals on the enzyme are scavenged by radical scavengers. Linoleic acid, the content of which was greater than the dissolved oxygen content, was treated with soya bean lipoxygenase-1 (ferric form) in the presence of radical scavenger, CmP (3-carbamoyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine-N-oxyl). The reaction rate between oxygen and lipid allyl radical is comparatively faster than that between CmP and lipid allyl radical. Therefore a reaction between linoleate allyl radical and CmP was not observed while the dioxygenation of linoleic acid was ongoing. After the dissolved oxygen was depleted, CmP stoichiometrically trapped linoleate-allyl radicals. Accompanied by this one-electron redox reaction, the resulting ferrous lipoxygenase was re-oxidized to the ferric form by hydroperoxylinoleate. Through the adduct assay via LC (liquid chromatography)-MS/MS (tandem MS), four E,Z-linoleate allyl radical-CmP adducts corresponding to regio- and diastereo-isomers were detected in the linoleate/lipoxygenase system, whereas E,E-linoleate allyl radical-CmP adducts were not detected at all. If E,Z-linoleate allyl radical is liberated from the enzyme, the E/Z-isomer has to reach equilibrium with the thermodynamically favoured E/E-isomer. These data suggested that the E,Z-linoleate allyl radicals were not liberated from the active site of lipoxygenase before being trapped by CmP. Consequently, we concluded that the lipid allyl radicals complexed with lipoxygenase could be scavenged by radical scavengers at lower oxygen content.

  9. Radical scavenger can scavenge lipid allyl radicals complexed with lipoxygenase at lower oxygen content

    PubMed Central

    Koshiishi, Ichiro; Tsuchida, Kazunori; Takajo, Tokuko; Komatsu, Makiko

    2006-01-01

    Lipoxygenases have been proposed to be a possible factor that is responsible for the pathology of certain diseases, including ischaemic injury. In the peroxidation process of linoleic acid by lipoxygenase, the E,Z-linoleate allyl radical–lipoxygenase complex seems to be generated as an intermediate. In the present study, we evaluated whether E,Z-linoleate allyl radicals on the enzyme are scavenged by radical scavengers. Linoleic acid, the content of which was greater than the dissolved oxygen content, was treated with soya bean lipoxygenase-1 (ferric form) in the presence of radical scavenger, CmP (3-carbamoyl-2,2,5,5-tetramethylpyrrolidine-N-oxyl). The reaction rate between oxygen and lipid allyl radical is comparatively faster than that between CmP and lipid allyl radical. Therefore a reaction between linoleate allyl radical and CmP was not observed while the dioxygenation of linoleic acid was ongoing. After the dissolved oxygen was depleted, CmP stoichiometrically trapped linoleate-allyl radicals. Accompanied by this one-electron redox reaction, the resulting ferrous lipoxygenase was re-oxidized to the ferric form by hydroperoxylinoleate. Through the adduct assay via LC (liquid chromatography)–MS/MS (tandem MS), four E,Z-linoleate allyl radical–CmP adducts corresponding to regio- and diastereo-isomers were detected in the linoleate/lipoxygenase system, whereas E,E-linoleate allyl radical–CmP adducts were not detected at all. If E,Z-linoleate allyl radical is liberated from the enzyme, the E/Z-isomer has to reach equilibrium with the thermodynamically favoured E/E-isomer. These data suggested that the E,Z-linoleate allyl radicals were not liberated from the active site of lipoxygenase before being trapped by CmP. Consequently, we concluded that the lipid allyl radicals complexed with lipoxygenase could be scavenged by radical scavengers at lower oxygen content. PMID:16396633

  10. [Sexual differences in a state systems of DNA structure maintenance and generation of reactive oxygen species in somatic cells of mice 101/H reparation-defective strain and manifestation of these differences after exposure to ionizing radiation].

    PubMed

    Mazurik, V K; Mikhaĭlov, V F; Ushenkova, L N; Raeva, N F

    2004-01-01

    To analyse a role of the factor of a genetic fundamentals of cells in formation of radiation-induced genome instability (RIGI) we investigated a condition of DNA pattern, content of superoxide anion-radical O2*- and a sum of reactive oxigen species (ROS) (O2*-, OH*, H2O2), and also catalase activity in bone marrow cells of male and female mice of 101/H strain in the norm and at once after chronic (10 day) exposure to 200 mGy gamma-radiation. Thus we based on conception about a significance of mechanisms of DNA repair and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in development of radiation-induced genome instability (RIGI), and also on the data on sex bound differences in efficiency of DNA repair in reply to impact of the genotoxic agents for male and female mice of 101/H strain. Sex connected differences in redox system of bone marrow cells were established. In males lower catalase activity was found in the norm, with considerable increase of the activity and the content of ROS after chronic irradiation with a low dose (200 mGy); at the same time a direct correlation between the ROS content and catalase activity occurred. In female, which have higher DNA repair potential, higher level of catalase activity was found in the norm, with reduction after irradiation and lower, than in male, level of O2*- content; no changes in the general ROS content, or direct correlation between the content of a superoxide anion-radical (O2*-) and the sum of ROS were observed. The detected differences between male and female the studied parameters in the norm and after irradiation indicate a connection of the studied characteristics and their changes with a sex, confirm the literature data about a significance of the factor of a genetic fundamentals of bioobject in formation of radiation-induced genome instability.

  11. Noninvasive in vivo optical characterization of blood flow and oxygen consumption in the superficial plexus of skin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liasi, Faezeh Talebi; Samatham, Ravikant; Jacques, Steven L.

    2017-11-01

    Assessing the metabolic activity of a tissue, whether normal, damaged, aged, or pathologic, is useful for diagnosis and evaluating the effects of drugs. This report describes a handheld optical fiber probe that contacts the skin, applies pressure to blanch the superficial vascular plexus of the skin, then releases the pressure to allow refill of the plexus. The optical probe uses white light spectroscopy to record the time dynamics of blanching and refilling. The magnitude and dynamics of changes in blood content and hemoglobin oxygen saturation yield an estimate of the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) in units of attomoles per cell per second. The average value of OCR on nine forearm sites on five subjects was 10±5 (amol/cell/s). This low-cost, portable, rapid, noninvasive optical probe can characterize the OCR of a skin site to assess the metabolic activity of the epidermis or a superficial lesion.

  12. Anaerobic metabolism in Brassica seedlings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Myoung-Ryoul; Hasenstein, Karl H.

    Germination typically depends on oxidative respiration. The lack of convection under space conditions may create hypoxic or conditions during seed germination. We investigated the effect of reduced oxygen on seed germination and metabolism to understand how metabolic constraints affect seed growth and responsiveness to reorientation. Germination was completely inhibited when seeds were imbibed in the absence of oxygen; germination occurred at 5% oxygen and higher levels. Adding oxygen after 72 h resulted in immediate germination (protrusion of the radicle). Hypoxia typically activates alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH, EC 1.1.1.1) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH, EC 1.1.1.27) which produce ethanol and/or L-lactate, respectively. We report on the expression of ADH1 and LDH1, and changes in total soluble sugars, starch, pH, and L-lactate in seedlings grown at 28°C in 0, 2.5, 5, 10% and ambient (21%) oxygen conditions as controls. The highest consumption (lowest level) of sugars was seen at 0% oxygen but the lowest level of starch occurred 24 h after imbibition under ambient condition. Expression levels of ADH1 in ambient oxygen condition increased within 24 h but increased threefold under hypoxic conditions; LDH1 increased up to 8-fold under hypoxia compared to controls but ADH1 and LDH1 were less expressed as the oxygen levels increased. The intracellular pH of seeds decreased as the content of L-lactate increased for all oxygen concentrations. These results indicate that germination of Brassica is sensitive to oxygen levels and that oxygen availability during germination is an important factor for metabolic activities. (Supported by NASA grant NNX10AP91G)

  13. Thai plants with high antioxidant levels, free radical scavenging activity, anti-tyrosinase and anti-collagenase activity.

    PubMed

    Chatatikun, Moragot; Chiabchalard, Anchalee

    2017-11-09

    Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight induces overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) resulting in skin photoaging and hyperpigmentation disorders. Novel whitening and anti-wrinkle compounds from natural products have recently become of increasing interest. The purpose of this study was to find products that reduce ROS in 14 Thai plant extracts. To determine total phenolic and flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, anti-tyrosinase activity and anti-collagenase activity, we compared extracts of 14 Thai plants prepared using different solvents (petroleum ether, dichloromethane and ethanol). Antioxidant activities were determined by DPPH and ABTS assays. Total phenolic content of the 14 Thai plants extracts was found at the highest levels in ethanol followed by dichloromethane and petroleum ether extracts, respectively, while flavonoid content was normally found in the dichloromethane fraction. Scavenging activity ranged from 7 to 99% scavenging as assessed by DPPH and ABTS assays. The ethanol leaf extract of Ardisia elliptica Thunb. had the highest phenolic content, antioxidant activity and collagenase inhibition, while Cassia alata (L.) Roxb. extract had the richest flavonoid content. Interestingly, three plants extracts, which were the ethanolic fractions of Annona squamosa L., Ardisia elliptica Thunb. and Senna alata (L.) Roxb., had high antioxidant content and activity, and significantly inhibited both tyrosinase and collagenase. Our finding show that the ethanol fractions of Annona squamosa L., Ardisia elliptica Thunb. and Senna alata (L.) Roxb. show promise as potential ingredients for cosmetic products such as anti-wrinkle agents and skin whitening products.

  14. Al Control in High Titanium Ferro with Low Oxygen Prepared by Thermite Reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dou, Zhi-he; Wang, Cong; Fan, Shi-gang; Shi, Guan-yong; Zhang, Ting-an

    Based on the pre-works, this paper proposed a new short stage process of the intensify aluminothermy reduction by the stage to prepare high titanium ferroalloy with low O and Al contents. We investigated the effects of Al and Ca and Si combination reduction agent, slag type and step-up reduction conditions on the Al content and distribution in the alloy. The results show that the step-up reduction can not only reduce effectively the oxygen content in the alloy, but also reduce effectively Al content. For instance, the oxygen content in high titanium ferroalloy is within 1%˜4%, and the Al content is within 1%˜5%. Its quality reaches the requirement of high titanium ferroalloy prepared by remelting process.

  15. Role of temperature and oxygen content on structural and electrical properties of LaBaCo2O5+δ thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mace, Brennan; Harrell, Zach; Chen, Chonglin; Enriquez, Erik; Chen, Aiping; Jia, Quanxi

    2018-02-01

    The role of temperature and the oxygen content in the structural transformation and electrical conductivity of epitaxial double perovskite LaBaCo2O5+δ (0≤ δ ≤ 1) thin films was systematically investigated. Reciprocal space mapping and ω-2θ x-ray diffraction performed at different temperatures in vacuum indicate that oxygen vacancies in the films become ordered at high temperature in a reducing environment. The changes of the oxygen content and the degree of oxygen vacancy ordering in the films result in a strong in-plane anisotropic lattice deformation and a large thermal expansion coefficient along the c-axis direction. The electrical conductivity measurements reveal that these behaviors are related to the degree of oxygen vacancy formation and lattice deformation in the films.

  16. Role of temperature and oxygen content on structural and electrical properties of LaBaCo2O5+δ thin films.

    PubMed

    Mace, Brennan; Harrell, Zach; Chen, Chonglin; Enriquez, Erik; Chen, Aiping; Jia, Quanxi

    2018-02-12

    The role of temperature and the oxygen content in the structural transformation and electrical conductivity of epitaxial double perovskite LaBaCo 2 O 5+δ (0≤ δ ≤ 1) thin films was systematically investigated. Reciprocal space mapping and ω-2θ x-ray diffraction performed at different temperatures in vacuum indicate that oxygen vacancies in the films become ordered at high temperature in a reducing environment. The changes of the oxygen content and the degree of oxygen vacancy ordering in the films result in a strong in-plane anisotropic lattice deformation and a large thermal expansion coefficient along the c-axis direction. The electrical conductivity measurements reveal that these behaviors are related to the degree of oxygen vacancy formation and lattice deformation in the films.

  17. Effects of decreasing activated carbon particle diameter from 30 μm to 140 nm on equilibrium adsorption capacity.

    PubMed

    Pan, Long; Nishimura, Yuki; Takaesu, Hideki; Matsui, Yoshihiko; Matsushita, Taku; Shirasaki, Nobutaka

    2017-11-01

    The capacity of activated carbon particles with median diameters (D50s) of >∼1 μm for adsorption of hydrophobic micropollutants such as 2-methylisolborneol (MIB) increases with decreasing particle size because the pollutants are adsorbed mostly on the exterior (shell) of the particles owing to the limited diffusion penetration depth. However, particles with D50s of <1 μm have not been thoroughly investigated. Here, we prepared particles with D50s of ∼30 μm-∼140 nm and evaluated their adsorption capacities for MIB and several other environmentally relevant adsorbates. The adsorption capacities for low-molecular-weight adsorbates, including MIB, deceased with decreasing particle size for D50s of less than a few micrometers, whereas adsorption capacities increased with decreasing particle size for larger particles. The oxygen content of the particles increased substantially with decreasing particle size for D50s of less than a few micrometers, and oxygen content was negatively correlated with adsorption capacity. The decrease in adsorption capacity with decreasing particle size for the smaller particles was due to particle oxidation during the micromilling procedure used to decrease D50 to ∼140 nm. When oxidation was partially inhibited, the MIB adsorption capacity decrease was attenuated. For high-molecular-weight adsorbates, adsorption capacity increased with decreasing particle size over the entire range of tested particle sizes, even though particle oxygen content increased with decreasing particle size. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. Study on the effect of polydimethylsiloxane from the viewpoint of oxygen content in oil.

    PubMed

    Yawata, Miho; Iwahashi, Maiko; Hori, Ryuji; Shiramasa, Hiroshi; Totani, Nagao

    2014-01-01

    It has been reported that polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) inhibits oxygen dissolution into oil by forming a monolayer on the surface of the oil, thereby reducing thermal oxidation. In the present study, the distribution of PDMS was determined by the inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy in standing PDMS-containing canola oil. PDMS did not disperse in the oil uniformly, but there was a tendency that the PDMS concentration decreased as the depth of oil increased, and the concentration of the bottom part was the lowest. When canola oil was covered with PDMS by dropping it gently on the surface of the oil and kept at 60°C, the oxygen content and oxidation of the oil were lower than those of the control canola oil. PDMS-containing canola oil and canola oil were heated with stirring from room temperature to 180°C, and then allowed to stand while cooling. Oxygen contents of both oils increased up to 120°C then dropped abruptly. While cooling, oxygen contents sharply increased at 100°C and approached the saturation content, although the increase for PDMS-containing canola oil was a little slow. Likewise, the thermal treatment of PDMS-containing canola oil and canola oil at 180°C for 1 h under stirring was repeated 5 times with standing intervals for 2-3 days at room temperature. Oxidation of the former was less than that of the latter in spite of its high oxygen content. In conclusion, the oxygen content of oil with/without PDMS addition increased, but oxidation of PDMS-containing canola oil was inhibited both during heating and standing with intermittent heating. It was suggested that PDMS exerted its antioxidative effect regardless of whether it covered the oil or was dispersed in it.

  19. Isothermal crystallization of gamma irradiated LDPE in the presence of oxygen

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lanfranconi, M. R.; Alvarez, V. A.; Perez, C. J.

    2015-06-01

    This work is focused on the study of the effect of oxygen on the isothermal crystallization process of gamma irradiated low density polyethylene (LDPE). The induction time increased with the dose indicating a retarding effect. On other hand, at the same dose, this parameter decreased with the augment in the oxygen content. The classical Avrami equation was used to analyze the crystallization kinetic of these materials. n values suggested that both, the dose and the oxygen content, did not affect the mechanism of crystals growth. An Arrhenius type equation was used for the rate constant (k). Used models correctly reproduced the experimental data. TTT diagrams of studied materials were constructed and also reflected the effects of the doses and the oxygen content.

  20. Induction of reactive oxygen species in marine phytoplankton under crude oil exposure.

    PubMed

    Ozhan, Koray; Zahraeifard, Sara; Smith, Aaron P; Bargu, Sibel

    2015-12-01

    Exposure of phytoplankton to the water-accommodated fraction of crude oil can elicit a number of stress responses, but the mechanisms that drive these responses are unclear. South Louisiana crude oil was selected to investigate its effects on population growth, chlorophyll a (Chl a) content, antioxidative defense, and lipid peroxidation, for the marine diatom, Ditylum brightwellii, and the dinoflagellate, Heterocapsa triquetra, in laboratory-based microcosm experiments. The transcript levels of several possible stress-responsive genes in D. brightwellii were also measured. The microalgae were exposed to crude oil for up to 96 h, and Chl a content, superoxide dismutase (SOD), the glutathione pool (GSH and GSSG), and lipid peroxidation content were analyzed. The cell growth of both phytoplankton species was inhibited with increasing crude oil concentrations. Crude oil exposure did not affect Chl a content significantly in cells. SOD activities showed similar responses in both species, being enhanced at 4- and 8-mg/L crude oil exposure. Only H. triquetra demonstrated enhanced activity in GSSG pool and lipid peroxidation at 8-mg/L crude oil exposure, suggesting that phytoplankton species have distinct physiological responses and tolerance levels to crude oil exposure. This study indicated the activation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in phytoplankton under crude oil exposure; however, the progressive damage in cells is still unknown. Thus, ROS-related damage in nucleic acid, lipids, proteins, and DNA, due to crude oil exposure could be a worthwhile subject of study to better understand crude oil toxicity at the base of the food web.

  1. Facile Synthesis of N-Doped Graphene-Like Carbon Nanoflakes as Efficient and Stable Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gu, Daguo; Zhou, Yao; Ma, Ruguang; Wang, Fangfang; Liu, Qian; Wang, Jiacheng

    2018-06-01

    A series of N-doped carbon materials (NCs) were synthesized by using biomass citric acid and dicyandiamide as renewable raw materials via a facile one-step pyrolysis method. The characterization of microstructural features shows that the NCs samples are composed of few-layered graphene-like nanoflakes with controlled in situ N doping, which is attributed to the confined pyrolysis of citric acid within the interlayers of the dicyandiamide-derived g-C3N4 with high nitrogen contents. Evidently, the pore volumes of the NCs increased with the increasing content of dicyandiamide in the precursor. Among these samples, the NCs nanoflakes prepared with the citric acid/dicyandiamide mass ratio of 1:6, NC-6, show the highest N content of 6.2 at%, in which pyridinic and graphitic N groups are predominant. Compared to the commercial Pt/C catalyst, the as-prepared NC-6 exhibits a small negative shift of 66 mV at the half-wave potential, demonstrating excellent electrocatalytic activity in the oxygen reduction reaction. Moreover, NC-6 also shows better long-term stability and resistance to methanol crossover compared to Pt/C. The efficient and stable performance are attributed to the graphene-like microstructure and high content of pyridinic and graphitic doped nitrogen in the sample, which creates more active sites as well as facilitating charge transfer due to the close four-electron reaction pathway. The superior electrocatalytic activity coupled with the facile synthetic method presents a new pathway to cost-effective electrocatalysts for practical fuel cells or metal-air batteries.

  2. Dynamics of bacterial assemblages and removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in oil-contaminated coastal marine sediments subjected to contrasted oxygen regimes.

    PubMed

    Militon, Cécile; Jézéquel, Ronan; Gilbert, Franck; Corsellis, Yannick; Sylvi, Léa; Cravo-Laureau, Cristiana; Duran, Robert; Cuny, Philippe

    2015-10-01

    To study the impact of oxygen regimes on the removal of polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in oil-spill-affected coastal marine sediments, we used a thin-layer incubation method to ensure that the incubated sediment was fully oxic, anoxic, or was influenced by oxic-anoxic switches without sediment stirring. Hydrocarbon content and microbial assemblages were followed during 60 days to determine PAH degradation kinetics and microbial community dynamics according to the oxygenation regimes. The highest PAH removal, with 69 % reduction, was obtained at the end of the experiment under oxic conditions, whereas weaker removals were obtained under oscillating and anoxic conditions (18 and 12 %, respectively). Bacterial community structure during the experiment was determined using a dual 16S rRNA genes/16S rRNA transcripts approach, allowing the characterization of metabolically active bacteria responsible for the functioning of the bacterial community in the contaminated sediment. The shift of the metabolically active bacterial communities showed that the selection of first responders belonged to Pseudomonas spp. and Labrenzia sp. and included an unidentified Deltaproteobacteria-irrespective of the oxygen regime-followed by the selection of late responders adapted to the oxygen regime. A novel unaffiliated phylotype (B38) was highly active during the last stage of the experiment, at which time, the low-molecular-weight (LMW) PAH biodegradation rates were significant for permanent oxic- and oxygen-oscillating conditions, suggesting that this novel phylotype plays an active role during the restoration phase of the studied ecosystem.

  3. Role of reactive oxygene species, peroxiredoxins and thioredoxins in reaction of plants to hypergravity and oxidative stresses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jadko, Sergiy

    Early increasing of reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration, including H2O2, occur in plant cells under various impacts and these ROS can function as signaling molecules in starting of cell stress responses. Peroxiredoxins (Prx) and thioredoxins (Trx) are significant cell ROS/H2O2 sensors and transmitters. Prx besides its antioxidant activity, participate in creating of stress redox signals by destroying of H2O2 and reducing of Trx. Than these reduced Trx lead to activation of various redox sensitive proteins, transcription factors and MAP kinases. This study aimed to investigate early increasing of ROS and H2O2 contents and Prx and Trx activities in pea roots and arabidopsis tissue culture cells under hypergravity and oxidative stresses. Pea roots of 3-5 days old seedlings and 12 days old tissue culture of Arabidopsis thaliana from leaves were studied. Pea seedlings were grown on wet filter paper and the tissue culture was grown on MS medium in dark conditions under 24oC. Hypergravity stress was induced by centrifugation at 15 g. Chemiluminescence (ChL) intensity for ROS concentration, H2O2 content and Prx and Trx activities were determined. All experiments were repeated by 3-4 times. Early increasing of ChL intensity and H2O2 content in the pea roots and arabidopsis tissue culture cells took place under hypergravity and oxidative stresses and its were higher corresponding controls on average on 25, 21 and 17 percents to 30, 60 and 90 min. At the same time Prx and Trx activities increased on 7, 13 and 16 percents. Thus under hypergravity and oxidative stresses in both investigated plants take place early increasing of ROS and H2O2 contents which as second messengers can lead to ROS/H2O2-dependent increasing of Prx and Trx activities with creating of H2O2-Prx-Trx signaling pathway.

  4. Structure and charge transfer correlated with oxygen content for a Y0.8Ca0.2Ba2Cu3Oy (y = 6.84 6.32) system: a positron study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cao, Shixun; Li, Lingwei; Liu, Fen; Li, Wenfeng; Chi, Changyun; Jing, Chao; Zhang, Jincang

    2005-05-01

    The structure and charge transfer correlated with oxygen content are studied by measuring the positron lifetime parameters of the Y0.8Ca0.2Ba2Cu3Oy system with a large range of oxygen content (y = 6.84-6.32). The local electron density ne is evaluated from the positron lifetime data. The positron lifetime parameters show a clear change around y = 6.50 where the compounds undergo the orthorhombic-tetragonal phase transition. The effect of ne and oxygen content on the structure, charge transfer and superconductivity are discussed. With the decrease of oxygen content y, O(4) tends to the Cu(1) site, causing carrier localization, and accordingly, the decrease of ne. This would prove that the localized carriers (electrons and holes) in the Cu-O chain region have great influence on the superconductivity by affecting the charge transfer between the reservoir layers and the conducting layers. The positron annihilation mechanism and its relation with superconductivity are also discussed.

  5. Complementary methods for the determination of dissolved oxygen content in perfluorocarbon emulsions and other solutions.

    PubMed

    Fraker, Christopher A; Mendez, Armando J; Stabler, Cherie L

    2011-09-08

    Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) are compounds with increased oxygen solubility and effective diffusivity, making them ideal candidates for improving oxygen mass transfer in numerous biological applications. Historically, quantification of the mass transfer characteristics of these liquids has relied on the use of elaborate laboratory equipment and complicated methodologies, such as in-line gas chromatography coupled with temperature-controlled glass fritted diffusion cells. In this work, we present an alternative method for the determination of dissolved oxygen content in PFC emulsions and, by extrapolation, pure PFCs. We implemented a simple stirred oxygen consumption microchamber coupled with an enzymatic reaction for the quantitative determination of oxygen by optical density measurements. Chambers were also custom fitted with lifetime oxygen sensors to permit simultaneous measurement of internal chamber oxygen levels. Analyzing the consumption of oxygen during the enzymatic reaction via recorded oxygen depletion traces, we found a strong degree of correlation between the zero-order reaction rate and the total measured oxygen concentrations, relative to control solutions. The values obtained were in close agreement with published values in the literature, establishing the accuracy of this method. Overall, this method allows for easy, reliable, and reproducible measurements of oxygen content in aqueous solutions, including, but not limited to PFC emulsions.

  6. [Effects of desulfurization waste on calcium distribution, Ca(2+)-ATPase activity, and antioxidant characteristics of rice leaf under alkali stress].

    PubMed

    Mao, Gui-Lian; Xu, Xing; Zeng, Jin; Yue, Zi-Hui; Yang, Shu-Juan

    2012-02-01

    To approach the action mechanisms of desulfurization waste on alleviating alkali stress-induced injury of rice, a pot experiment was conducted to study the variations of leaf total calcium content, calcium distribution, plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase activity, and reactive oxygen content of rice seedlings under alkali stress after the application of desulfurization waste. In the control, a few calcium particulates scattered in the cell wall and chloroplasts, while applying desulfurization waste or CaSO4 increased the calcium particulates in the plasma membrane, intercellular space, cell wall, and vacuole significantly. With the increasing application rate of desulfurization waste or CaSO4, the leaf total calcium content increased, Ca(2+)-ATPase activity in plasma membrane and tonoplast presented an increasing trend, plasma membrane relative permeability, MDA content, and O2 production rate decreased, and SOD and POD activities increased. The desulfurization waste could relieve the alkali stress to rice in some extent, and the main reactive compound in the waste could be CaSO4.

  7. Variations in antioxidant content in leaves and fruits of Ficus fistulosa

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hlail, Shrrog Hammed; Wan Ahmad, Wan Juliana; Abdullah, Aminah

    2014-09-01

    This study evaluated the effects of (rural vs urban) forest conditions on the total phenolic content and antioxidants activity of Ficus fistulosa in four locations (Bangi, Ayer Hitam, Chini and Bera Forest Reserves) in Malaysia. Total phenolic content of Ficus leaves and fruits extracts was determined by the Foline-Ciocalteau method and the antioxidant activity of Ficus leaves and fruits was measured by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2, 2-Dipheny-1-picryhydrazyl radical (DPPH) scavenging activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The TPC and antioxidant activity of F.fistulosa leaves and fruits extracts were significantly (P<0.05) affected by forest types. The highest total phenol content (mg/g) was found in F.fistulosa leaves and fruits, 426.14 and 452.25 respectively in remote forest (Chini Forest Reserves). The FRAP, % DPPH, and ORAC values for different F. fistulosa extracts ranged from251.74 to 321.75 mg /100g DW, 75.49 to 90.54%, and 158.36 to 114.18μmol TE/100g DW respectively. The results suggested that F. fistulosa leaves and fruits are a goodsources of natural antioxidants.

  8. Benthic Oxygen Uptake in the Arctic Ocean Margins - A Case Study at the Deep-Sea Observatory HAUSGARTEN (Fram Strait)

    PubMed Central

    Cathalot, Cecile; Rabouille, Christophe; Sauter, Eberhard; Schewe, Ingo; Soltwedel, Thomas

    2015-01-01

    The past decades have seen remarkable changes in the Arctic, a hotspot for climate change. Nevertheless, impacts of such changes on the biogeochemical cycles and Arctic marine ecosystems are still largely unknown. During cruises to the deep-sea observatory HAUSGARTEN in July 2007 and 2008, we investigated the biogeochemical recycling of organic matter in Arctic margin sediments by performing shipboard measurements of oxygen profiles, bacterial activities and biogenic sediment compounds (pigment, protein, organic carbon, and phospholipid contents). Additional in situ oxygen profiles were performed at two sites. This study aims at characterizing benthic mineralization activity along local bathymetric and latitudinal transects. The spatial coverage of this study is unique since it focuses on the transition from shelf to Deep Ocean, and from close to the ice edge to more open waters. Biogeochemical recycling across the continental margin showed a classical bathymetric pattern with overall low fluxes except for the deepest station located in the Molloy Hole (5500 m), a seafloor depression acting as an organic matter depot center. A gradient in benthic mineralization rates arises along the latitudinal transect with clearly higher values at the southern stations (average diffusive oxygen uptake of 0.49 ± 0.18 mmol O2 m-2 d-1) compared to the northern sites (0.22 ± 0.09 mmol O2 m-2 d-1). The benthic mineralization activity at the HAUSGARTEN observatory thus increases southward and appears to reflect the amount of organic matter reaching the seafloor rather than its lability. Although organic matter content and potential bacterial activity clearly follow this gradient, sediment pigments and phospholipids exhibit no increase with latitude whereas satellite images of surface ocean chlorophyll a indicate local seasonal patterns of primary production. Our results suggest that predicted increases in primary production in the Arctic Ocean could induce a larger export of more refractory organic matter due to the longer production season and the extension of the ice-free zone. PMID:26465885

  9. Tracking Catalyst Redox States and Reaction Dynamics in Ni-Fe Oxyhydroxide Oxygen Evolution Reaction Electrocatalysts: The Role of Catalyst Support and Electrolyte pH.

    PubMed

    Görlin, Mikaela; Ferreira de Araújo, Jorge; Schmies, Henrike; Bernsmeier, Denis; Dresp, Sören; Gliech, Manuel; Jusys, Zenonas; Chernev, Petko; Kraehnert, Ralph; Dau, Holger; Strasser, Peter

    2017-02-08

    Ni-Fe oxyhydroxides are the most active known electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline electrolytes and are therefore of great scientific and technological importance in the context of electrochemical energy conversion. Here we uncover, investigate, and discuss previously unaddressed effects of conductive supports and the electrolyte pH on the Ni-Fe(OOH) catalyst redox behavior and catalytic OER activity, combining in situ UV-vis spectro-electrochemistry, operando electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS), and in situ cryo X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS). Supports and pH > 13 strongly enhanced the precatalytic voltammetric charge of the Ni-Fe oxyhydroxide redox peak couple, shifted them more cathodically, and caused a 2-3-fold increase in the catalytic OER activity. Analysis of DEMS-based faradaic oxygen efficiency and electrochemical UV-vis traces consistently confirmed our voltammetric observations, evidencing both a more cathodic O 2 release and a more cathodic onset of Ni oxidation at higher pH. Using UV-vis, which can monitor the amount of oxidized Ni +3/+4 in situ, confirmed an earlier onset of the redox process at high electrolyte pH and further provided evidence of a smaller fraction of Ni +3/+4 in mixed Ni-Fe centers, confirming the unresolved paradox of a reduced metal redox activity with increasing Fe content. A nonmonotonic super-Nernstian pH dependence of the redox peaks with increasing Fe content-displaying Pourbaix slopes as steep as -120 mV/pH-suggested a two proton-one electron transfer. We explain and discuss the experimental pH effects using refined coupled (PCET) and decoupled proton transfer-electron transfer (PT/ET) schemes involving negatively charged oxygenate ligands generated at Fe centers. Together, we offer new insight into the catalytic reaction dynamics and associated catalyst redox chemistry of the most important class of alkaline OER catalysts.

  10. BOREAS TE-10 Photosynthetic Response Data

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hall, Forrest G. (Editor); Papagno, Andrea (Editor); Middleton, Elizabeth; Sullivan, Joseph

    2000-01-01

    The Boreal Ecosystem-Atmospheric Study (BOREAS) TE-10 (Terrestrial Ecology) team collected several data sets in support of its efforts to characterize and interpret information on the gas exchange, reflectance, transmittance, chlorophyll content, carbon content, hydrogen content, nitrogen content, and photosynthetic response of boreal vegetation. This data set contains measurements of quantitative parameters and leaf photosynthetic response to increases in light conducted in the SSA during the growing seasons of 1994 and 1996 using an oxygen electrode system. Leaf photosynthetic responses were not collected in 1996. The data are stored in tabular ASCII files. The data files are available on a CD-ROM (see document number 20010000884), or from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) Distributed Active Archive Center (DAAC).

  11. Taken for Granted: Why Curriculum Content Is Like Oxygen

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gosse, Carolyn; Hansel, Lisa

    2014-01-01

    For educators, the content of the curriculum really is like oxygen: it is the necessary precondition for improving schools, closing the achievement gap, engaging parents, and preparing teachers. However, when educators take the content of the curriculum for granted, they lose opportunities to coordinate and collaborate. Good curriculum instruction…

  12. Effect of magnesium oxide nanoparticles on microbial diversity and removal performance of sequencing batch reactor.

    PubMed

    Ma, Bingrui; Yu, Naling; Han, Yuetong; Gao, Mengchun; Wang, Sen; Li, Shanshan; Guo, Liang; She, Zonglian; Zhao, Yangguo; Jin, Chunji; Gao, Feng

    2018-06-13

    The performance, microbial enzymatic activity and microbial community of a sequencing batch reactor (SBR) have been explored under magnesium oxide nanoparticles (MgO NPs) stress. The NH 4 + -N removal efficiency kept relatively stable during the whole operational process. The MgO NPs at 30-60 mg/L slightly restrained the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD), and the presence of MgO NPs also affected the denitrification and phosphorus removal. The specific oxygen uptake rate, nitrifying and denitrifying rates, phosphorus removal rate, and microbial enzymatic activities distinctly varied with the increase of MgO NPs concentration. The appearance of MgO NPs promoted more reactive oxygen species generation and lactate dehydrogenase leakage from activated sludge, suggesting that MgO NPs had obvious toxicity to activated sludge in the SBR. The protein and polysaccharide contents of extracellular polymeric substances from activated sludge increased with the increase of MgO NPs concentration. The microbial richness and diversity at different MgO NPs concentrations obviously varied at the phylum, class and genus levels due to the biological toxicity of MgO NPs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Effect of micro-oxygenation on color and anthocyanin-related compounds of wines with different phenolic contents.

    PubMed

    Cano-López, Marta; Pardo-Mínguez, Francisco; Schmauch, Gregory; Saucier, Cedric; Teissedre, Pierre-Louis; López-Roca, Jose María; Gómez-Plaza, Encarna

    2008-07-23

    Several factors may affect the results obtained when micro-oxygenation is applied to red wines, the most important being the moment of application, the doses of oxygen, and the wine phenolic characteristics. In this study, three red wines, made from Vitis vinifera var. Monastrell (2005 vintage) and with different phenolic characteristics, were micro-oxygenated to determine as to how this technique affected the formation of new pigments in the wines and their chromatic characteristics. The results indicated that the different wines were differently affected by micro-oxygenation. In general, the micro-oxygenated wines had a higher percentage of new anthocyanin-derived pigments, being that this formation is more favored in the wines with the highest total phenol content. These compounds, in turn, significantly increased the wine color intensity. The wine with the lowest phenolic content was less influenced by micro-oxygenation, and the observed evolution in the degree of polymerization of tannins suggested that it might have suffered overoxygenation.

  14. Structure Evolution of Graphene Oxide during Thermally Driven Phase Transformation: Is the Oxygen Content Really Preserved?

    PubMed Central

    Sun, Pengzhan; Wang, Yanlei; Liu, He; Wang, Kunlin; Wu, Dehai; Xu, Zhiping; Zhu, Hongwei

    2014-01-01

    A mild annealing procedure was recently proposed for the scalable enhancement of graphene oxide (GO) properties with the oxygen content preserved, which was demonstrated to be attributed to the thermally driven phase separation. In this work, the structure evolution of GO with mild annealing is closely investigated. It reveals that in addition to phase separation, the transformation of oxygen functionalities also occurs, which leads to the slight reduction of GO membranes and furthers the enhancement of GO properties. These results are further supported by the density functional theory based calculations. The results also show that the amount of chemically bonded oxygen atoms on graphene decreases gradually and we propose that the strongly physisorbed oxygen species constrained in the holes and vacancies on GO lattice might be responsible for the preserved oxygen content during the mild annealing procedure. The present experimental results and calculations indicate that both the diffusion and transformation of oxygen functional groups might play important roles in the scalable enhancement of GO properties. PMID:25372142

  15. Method and apparatus for detection of catalyst failure on-board a motor vehicle using a dual oxygen sensor and an algorithm

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Clemmens, W.B.; Koupal, J.W.; Sabourin, M.A.

    1993-07-20

    Apparatus is described for detecting motor vehicle exhaust gas catalytic converter deterioration comprising a first exhaust gas oxygen sensor adapted for communication with an exhaust stream before passage of the exhaust stream through a catalytic converter and a second exhaust gas oxygen sensor adapted for communication with the exhaust stream after passage of the exhaust stream through the catalytic converter, an on-board vehicle computational means, said computational means adapted to accept oxygen content signals from the before and after catalytic converter oxygen sensors and adapted to generate signal threshold values, said computational means adapted to compare over repeated time intervalsmore » the oxygen content signals to the signal threshold values and to store the output of the compared oxygen content signals, and in response after a specified number of time intervals for a specified mode of motor vehicle operation to determine and indicate a level of catalyst deterioration.« less

  16. Hydrodeoxygenation of prairie cordgrass bio-oil over Ni based activated carbon synergistic catalysts combined with different metals.

    PubMed

    Cheng, Shouyun; Wei, Lin; Zhao, Xianhui; Kadis, Ethan; Cao, Yuhe; Julson, James; Gu, Zhengrong

    2016-06-25

    Bio-oil can be upgraded through hydrodeoxygenation (HDO). Low-cost and effective catalysts are crucial for the HDO process. In this study, four inexpensive combinations of Ni based activated carbon synergistic catalysts including Ni/AC, Ni-Fe/AC, Ni-Mo/AC and Ni-Cu/AC were evaluated for HDO of prairie cordgrass (PCG) bio-oil. The tests were carried out in the autoclave under mild operating conditions with 500psig of H2 pressure and 350°C temperature. The catalysts were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results show that all synergistic catalysts had significant improvements on the physicochemical properties (water content, pH, oxygen content, higher heating value and chemical compositions) of the upgraded PCG bio-oil. The higher heating value of the upgraded bio-oil (ranging from 29.65MJ/kg to 31.61MJ/kg) improved significantly in comparison with the raw bio-oil (11.33MJ/kg), while the oxygen content reduced to only 21.70-25.88% from 68.81% of the raw bio-oil. Compared to raw bio-oil (8.78% hydrocarbons and no alkyl-phenols), the Ni/AC catalysts produced the highest content of gasoline range hydrocarbons (C6-C12) at 32.63% in the upgraded bio-oil, while Ni-Mo/AC generated the upgraded bio-oil with the highest content of gasoline blending alkyl-phenols at 38.41%. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. The Effect of Ash and Inorganic Pigment Fill on the Atomic Oxygen Erosion of Polymers and Paints (ISMSE-12)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Banks, Bruce A.; Simmons, Julie C.; de Groh, Kim K.; Miller, Sharon K.

    2012-01-01

    Low atomic oxygen fluence (below 1x10(exp 20) atoms/sq cm) exposure of polymers and paints that have a small ash content and/or inorganic pigment fill does not cause a significant difference in erosion yield compared to unfilled (neat) polymers or paints. However, if the ash and/or inorganic pigment content is increased, the surface population of the inorganic content will begin to occupy a significant fraction of the surface area as the atomic oxygen exposure increases because the ash is not volatile and remains as a loosely attached surface layer. This results in a reduction of the flux of atomic oxygen reacting with the polymer and a reduction in the rate of erosion of the polymer remaining. This paper presents the results of ground laboratory and low Earth orbital (LEO) investigations to evaluate the fluence dependence of atomic oxygen erosion yields of polymers and paints having inorganic fill content.

  18. Low Pt-content ternary PdCuPt nanodendrites: an efficient electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Fu, Shaofang; Zhu, Chengzhou; Song, Junhua

    2017-01-01

    Dendritic nanostructures are capturing increasing attentions in electrocatalysis owing to their unique structural features and low density. Herein, we report for the first time bromide ions mediated synthesis of low-Pt-content PdCuPt ternary nanodendrites via galvanic replacement reaction between Pt precursor and PdCu template in aqueous solution. The experimental results show that the ternary PdCuPt nanodendrites present enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction in acid solution compared with commercial Pt/C as well as some state-of-the-art catalysts. In details, the mass activity of the PdCuPt catalyst with optimized composition is 1.73 A/mgPt at 0.85 V vs RHE, which is 14 timesmore » higher than that of commercial Pt/C catalyst. Moreover, the long-term stability test demonstrates its better durability in acid solution. After 5k cycles, there is still 70% electrochemical surface area maintained. This method provides an efficient way to synthesize trimetallic alloys with controllable composition and specific structure for oxygen reduction reaction.« less

  19. Phototrophs in high-iron-concentration microbial mats: physiological ecology of phototrophs in an iron-depositing hot spring

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pierson, B. K.; Parenteau, M. N.; Griffin, B. M.

    1999-01-01

    At Chocolate Pots Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park the source waters have a pH near neutral, contain high concentrations of reduced iron, and lack sulfide. An iron formation that is associated with cyanobacterial mats is actively deposited. The uptake of [(14)C]bicarbonate was used to assess the impact of ferrous iron on photosynthesis in this environment. Photoautotrophy in some of the mats was stimulated by ferrous iron (1.0 mM). Microelectrodes were used to determine the impact of photosynthetic activity on the oxygen content and the pH in the mat and sediment microenvironments. Photosynthesis increased the oxygen concentration to 200% of air saturation levels in the top millimeter of the mats. The oxygen concentration decreased with depth and in the dark. Light-dependent increases in pH were observed. The penetration of light in the mats and in the sediments was determined. Visible radiation was rapidly attenuated in the top 2 mm of the iron-rich mats. Near-infrared radiation penetrated deeper. Iron was totally oxidized in the top few millimeters, but reduced iron was detected at greater depths. By increasing the pH and the oxygen concentration in the surface sediments, the cyanobacteria could potentially increase the rate of iron oxidation in situ. This high-iron-content hot spring provides a suitable model for studying the interactions of microbial photosynthesis and iron deposition and the role of photosynthesis in microbial iron cycling. This model may help clarify the potential role of photosynthesis in the deposition of Precambrian banded iron formations.

  20. Antioxidant Activity and Induction of mRNA Expressions of Antioxidant Enzymes in HEK-293 Cells of Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract.

    PubMed

    Vongsak, Boonyadist; Mangmool, Supachoke; Gritsanapan, Wandee

    2015-08-01

    The leaves of Moringa oleifera, collected in different provinces in Thailand, were determined for the contents of total phenolics, total flavonoids, major components, and antioxidant activity. The extract and its major active components were investigated for the inhibition of H2O2-induced reactive oxygen species production and the effects on antioxidant enzymes mRNA expression. The extract, crypto-chlorogenic acid, isoquercetin and astragalin, significantly reduced the reactive oxygen species production inducing by H2O2 in HEK-293 cells. Treatment with isoquercetin significantly increased the mRNA expression levels of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase and heme oxygenase 1. These results confirm that M. oleifera leaves are good sources of natural antioxidant with isoquercetin as an active compound. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

  1. Antioxidant enzymes activity and phenolic compounds content in red cabbage seedlings exposed to copper stress.

    PubMed

    Posmyk, M M; Kontek, R; Janas, K M

    2009-02-01

    The phenolics: anthocyanin (ATH), sinapoyl esters and activity of antioxidant enzymes: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (POX), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione reductase (GR), in red cabbage seedlings subjected to Cu2+ stress were investigated. Cu2+ at low doses (0.5 mM), increased the levels of ATH and sinapoyl derivatives in red cabbage. High Cu2+ concentration (2.5 mM) provoked oxidative stress and enhanced thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content in tissues. A lower level of TBARS was correlated with high ATH content. It seems that synthesis of these isoflavonoids is an effective strategy against reactive oxygen species (ROS). The analysis of the antioxidant enzymes activity suggested that peroxidases were the most active enzymes in red cabbage seedlings exposed to Cu2+ stress. It could results from the fact that phenolic compounds (PhC), which could be also substrates for different peroxidases, were the first line of defence against metal stress.

  2. Mitochondrial Respiratory Function Induces Endogenous Hypoxia

    PubMed Central

    Prior, Sara; Kim, Ara; Yoshihara, Toshitada; Tobita, Seiji; Takeuchi, Toshiyuki; Higuchi, Masahiro

    2014-01-01

    Hypoxia influences many key biological functions. In cancer, it is generally believed that hypoxic condition is generated deep inside the tumor because of the lack of oxygen supply. However, consumption of oxygen by cancer should be one of the key means of regulating oxygen concentration to induce hypoxia but has not been well studied. Here, we provide direct evidence of the mitochondrial role in the induction of intracellular hypoxia. We used Acetylacetonatobis [2-(2′-benzothienyl) pyridinato-kN, kC3’] iridium (III) (BTP), a novel oxygen sensor, to detect intracellular hypoxia in living cells via microscopy. The well-differentiated cancer cell lines, LNCaP and MCF-7, showed intracellular hypoxia without exogenous hypoxia in an open environment. This may be caused by high oxygen consumption, low oxygen diffusion in water, and low oxygen incorporation to the cells. In contrast, the poorly-differentiated cancer cell lines: PC-3 and MDAMB231 exhibited intracellular normoxia by low oxygen consumption. The specific complex I inhibitor, rotenone, and the reduction of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content reduced intracellular hypoxia, indicating that intracellular oxygen concentration is regulated by the consumption of oxygen by mitochondria. HIF-1α was activated in endogenously hypoxic LNCaP and the activation was dependent on mitochondrial respiratory function. Intracellular hypoxic status is regulated by glucose by parabolic dose response. The low concentration of glucose (0.045 mg/ml) induced strongest intracellular hypoxia possibly because of the Crabtree effect. Addition of FCS to the media induced intracellular hypoxia in LNCaP, and this effect was partially mimicked by an androgen analog, R1881, and inhibited by the anti-androgen, flutamide. These results indicate that mitochondrial respiratory function determines intracellular hypoxic status and may regulate oxygen-dependent biological functions. PMID:24586439

  3. Oxygen potentials, oxygen diffusion coefficients and defect equilibria of nonstoichiometric (U,Pu)O2±x

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kato, Masato; Watanabe, Masashi; Matsumoto, Taku; Hirooka, Shun; Akashi, Masatoshi

    2017-04-01

    Oxygen potential of (U,Pu)O2±x was evaluated based on defect chemistry using an updated experimental data set. The relationship between oxygen partial pressure and deviation x in (U,Pu)O2±x was analyzed, and equilibrium constants of defect formation were determined as functions of Pu content and temperature. Brouwer's diagrams were constructed using the determined equilibrium constants, and a relational equation to determine O/M ratio was derived as functions of O/M ratio, Pu content and temperature. In addition, relationship between oxygen potential and oxygen diffusion coefficients were described.

  4. Decreasing effect and mechanism of moisture content of sludge biomass by granulation process.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Xia; Xu, Hao; Shen, Jimin; Yu, Bo; Wang, Xiaochun

    2016-01-01

    Disposal of a high volume of sludge significantly raises water treatment costs. A method for cultivating aerobic granules in a sequencing batch airlift bioreactor to significantly produce lower moisture content is described. Results indicate that optimization of settling time and control of the shear stresses acted on the granules. The diameter of the granule was within the range of 1.0-4.0 mm, and its sludge volume index was stabilized at 40-50 mL g(-1). Its specific gravity was increased by a factor of 0.0392, and specific oxygen uptake rate reached 60.126 mg h(-1) g(-1). Moreover, the percentage of its moisture content in the reactor ranged from 96.73% to 97.67%, and sludge volume was reduced to approximately 60%, greatly due to the presence of extracellular polymeric substances in the granules, as well as changes in their hydrophobic protein content. The removal rate of chemical oxygen demand and [Formula: see text] reaches up to 92.6% and 98%, respectively. The removal rates of total phosphorus is over 85%. Therefore, aerobic granular sludge process illustrates a good biological activity.

  5. Facile Synthesis of Nitrogen and Oxygen Co-Doped Clews of Carbon Nanobelts for Supercapacitors with Excellent Rate Performance.

    PubMed

    Yu, Liang; Zeng, Shaozhong; Zeng, Xierong; Li, Xiaohua; Wu, Hongliang; Yao, Yuechao; Tu, Wenxuan; Zou, Jizhao

    2018-04-04

    Facile synthesis of carbon materials with high heteroatom content, large specific surface area (SSA) and hierarchical porous structure is critical for energy storage applications. In this study, nitrogen and oxygen co-doped clews of carbon nanobelts (NCNBs) with hierarchical porous structures are successfully prepared by a carbonization and subsequent activation by using ladder polymer of hydroquinone and formaldehyde (LPHF) as the precursor and ammonia as the activating agent. The hierarchical porous structures and ultra-high SSA (up to 2994 m² g −1 ) can effectively facilitate the exchange and transportation of electrons and ions. Moreover, suitable heteroatom content is believed to modify the wettability of the carbon material. The as-prepared activated NCNBs-60 (the NCNBs activated by ammonia at 950 °C for 60 min) possess a high capacitance of 282 F g −1 at the current density of 0.25 A g −1 , NCNBs-45 (the NCNBs are activated by ammonia at 950 °C for 45 min) and show an excellent capacity retention of 50.2% when the current density increase from 0.25 to 150 A g −1 . Moreover, the NCNBs-45 electrode exhibits superior electrochemical stability with 96.2% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles at 5.0 A g −1 . The newly prepared NCNBs thus show great potential in the field of energy storage.

  6. Facile Synthesis of Nitrogen and Oxygen Co-Doped Clews of Carbon Nanobelts for Supercapacitors with Excellent Rate Performance

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Liang; Zeng, Shaozhong; Zeng, Xierong; Li, Xiaohua; Wu, Hongliang; Yao, Yuechao; Tu, Wenxuan; Zou, Jizhao

    2018-01-01

    Facile synthesis of carbon materials with high heteroatom content, large specific surface area (SSA) and hierarchical porous structure is critical for energy storage applications. In this study, nitrogen and oxygen co-doped clews of carbon nanobelts (NCNBs) with hierarchical porous structures are successfully prepared by a carbonization and subsequent activation by using ladder polymer of hydroquinone and formaldehyde (LPHF) as the precursor and ammonia as the activating agent. The hierarchical porous structures and ultra-high SSA (up to 2994 m2 g−1) can effectively facilitate the exchange and transportation of electrons and ions. Moreover, suitable heteroatom content is believed to modify the wettability of the carbon material. The as-prepared activated NCNBs-60 (the NCNBs activated by ammonia at 950 °C for 60 min) possess a high capacitance of 282 F g−1 at the current density of 0.25 A g−1, NCNBs-45 (the NCNBs are activated by ammonia at 950 °C for 45 min) and show an excellent capacity retention of 50.2% when the current density increase from 0.25 to 150 A g−1. Moreover, the NCNBs-45 electrode exhibits superior electrochemical stability with 96.2% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles at 5.0 A g−1. The newly prepared NCNBs thus show great potential in the field of energy storage. PMID:29617315

  7. Capacitive behavior of highly-oxidized graphite

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ciszewski, Mateusz; Mianowski, Andrzej

    2014-09-01

    Capacitive behavior of a highly-oxidized graphite is presented in this paper. The graphite oxide was synthesized using an oxidizing mixture of potassium chlorate and concentrated fuming nitric acid. As-oxidized graphite was quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed with respect to the oxygen content and the species of oxygen-containing groups. Electrochemical measurements were performed in a two-electrode symmetric cell using KOH electrolyte. It was shown that prolonged oxidation causes an increase in the oxygen content while the interlayer distance remains constant. Specific capacitance increased with oxygen content in the electrode as a result of pseudo-capacitive effects, from 0.47 to 0.54 F/g for a scan rate of 20 mV/s and 0.67 to 1.15 F/g for a scan rate of 5 mV/s. Better cyclability was observed for the electrode with a higher oxygen amount.

  8. Paradoxical correlation between signal in functional magnetic resonance imaging and deoxygenated haemoglobin content in capillaries: a new theoretical explanation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yamamoto, Toru; Kato, Toshinori

    2002-04-01

    Signal increases in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are believed to be a result of decreased paramagnetic deoxygenated haemoglobin (deoxyHb) content in the neural activation area. However, discrepancies in this canonical blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) theory have been pointed out in studies using optical techniques, which directly measure haemoglobin changes. To explain the discrepancies, we developed a new theory bridging magnetic resonance (MR) signal and haemoglobin changes. We focused on capillary influences, which have been neglected in most previous fMRI studies and performed a combined fMRI and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) study using a language task. Paradoxically, both the MR signal and deoxyHb content increased in Broca's area. On the other hand, fMRI activation in the auditory area near large veins correlated with a mirror-image decrease in deoxyHb and increase in oxygenated haemoglobin (oxyHb), in agreement with canonical BOLD theory. All fMRI signal changes correlated consistently with changes in oxyHb, the diamagnetism of which is insensitive to MR. We concluded that the discrepancy with the canonical BOLD theory is caused by the fact that the BOLD theory ignores the effect of the capillaries. Our theory explains the paradoxical phenomena of the oxyHb and deoxyHb contributions to the MR signal and gives a new insight into the precise haemodynamics of activation by analysing fMRI and NIRS data.

  9. Changes in photosynthetic performance and antioxidative strategies during maturation of Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.) leaves.

    PubMed

    Lepeduš, Hrvoje; Gaća, Vlatka; Viljevac, Marija; Kovač, Spomenka; Fulgosi, Hrvoje; Simić, Domagoj; Jurković, Vlatka; Cesar, Vera

    2011-04-01

    Different structural and functional changes take place during leaf development. Since some of them are highly connected to oxidative metabolism, regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) abundance is required. Most of the reactive oxygen species ROS in plant cells are produced in chloroplasts as a result of highly energetic reactions of photosynthesis. The aim of our study was to examine the changes in concentration of oxidative stress parameters (TBARS - thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances and protein carbonyls) as well as antioxidative strategies during development of maple (Acer platanoides L.) leaves in the light of their enhanced photosynthetic performance. We reveal that biogenesis of the photosynthetic apparatus during maple leaf maturation corresponded with oxidative damage of lipids, but not proteins. In addition, antioxidative responses in young leaves differed from that in older leaves. Young leaves had high values of non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and catalase (CAT, EC 1.11.1.6) activity which declined during the maturation process. Developing leaves were characterized by an increase in TBARS level, the content of non-enzymatic antioxidants as well as ascorbate peroxidase activity (APX, EC 1.11.1.11), while the content of protein carbonyls decreased with leaf maturation. Fully developed leaves had the highest lipid peroxidation level accompanied by a maximum in ascorbic acid content and superoxide dismutase activity (SOD, EC1.15.1.1). These observations imply completely different antioxidative strategies during leaf maturation enabling them to perform their basic function. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  10. Investigation of the Effects of Oxygen Content in YBa2Cu3Ox on the Depth and Profile of Direct Ion Milled Trenches

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-09-01

    fashion, thereby providing an experimental resolution previously unobtainable. Josephson junctions can be fabricated via many known methods; however... junction formation geometry. The objective of this study is to systematically investigate and de- termine the impact of local oxygen content on the ion...used advantageously in the fabrication of Josephson junction on films of YBa2Cu3O7−δ, wherein the film is annealed such that the oxygen content of the

  11. Surface damage of thin AlN films with increased oxygen content by nanosecond and femtosecond laser pulses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gruzdev, Vitaly; Salakhutdinov, Ildar; Chen, J. K.; Danylyuk, Yuriy; McCullen, Erik; Auner, Gregory

    2009-10-01

    AlN films deposited on sapphire substrates were damaged by single UV nanosecond (at 248 nm) and IR femtosecond (at 775 nm) laser pulses in air at normal pressure. The films had high (27-35 atomic %) concentration of oxygen introduced into thin surface layer (5-10 nm thickness). We measured damage threshold and studied morphology of the damage sites with atomic force and Nomarski optical microscopes with the objective to determine a correlation between damage processes and oxygen content. The damage produced by nanosecond pulses was accompanied by significant thermal effects with evident signatures of melting, chemical modification of the film surface, and specific redistribution of micro-defect rings around the damage spots. The nanosecond-damage threshold exhibited pronounced increase with increase of the oxygen content. In contrast to that, the femtosecond pulses produced damage without any signs of thermal, thermo-mechanical or chemical effects. No correlation between femtosecond-damage threshold and oxygen content as well as presence of defects within the laser-damage spot was found. We discuss the influence of the oxygen contamination on film properties and related mechanisms responsible for the specific damage effects and morphology of the damage sites observed in the experiments.

  12. Antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity of Spondias pinnata

    PubMed Central

    Hazra, Bibhabasu; Biswas, Santanu; Mandal, Nripendranath

    2008-01-01

    Background Many diseases are associated with oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Current research is directed towards finding naturally-occurring antioxidants of plant origin. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activities of Spondias pinnata stem bark extract. Methods A 70% methanol extract of Spondias pinnata stem bark was studied in vitro for total antioxidant activity, for scavenging of hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions, nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid, and for iron chelating capacity, reducing power, and phenolic and flavonoid contents. Results The extract showed total antioxidant activity with a trolox equivalent antioxidant concentration (TEAC) value of 0.78 ± 0.02. The IC50 values for scavenging of free radicals were 112.18 ± 3.27 μg/ml, 13.46 ± 0.66 μg/ml and 24.48 ± 2.31 μg/ml for hydroxyl, superoxide and nitric oxide, respectively. The IC50 for hydrogen peroxide scavenging was 44.74 ± 25.61 mg/ml. For the peroxynitrite, singlet oxygen and hypochlorous acid scavenging activities the IC50 values were 716.32 ± 32.25 μg/ml, 58.07 ± 5.36 μg/ml and 127.99 ± 6.26 μg/ml, respectively. The extract was found to be a potent iron chelator with IC50 = 66.54 ± 0.84 μg/ml. The reducing power was increased with increasing amounts of extract. The plant extract (100 mg) yielded 91.47 ± 0.004 mg/ml gallic acid-equivalent phenolic content and 350.5 ± 0.004 mg/ml quercetin-equivalent flavonoid content. Conclusion The present study provides evidence that a 70% methanol extract of Spondias pinnata stem bark is a potential source of natural antioxidants. PMID:19068130

  13. Antibacterial activity-guided purification and identification of a novel C-20 oxygenated ent-kaurane from Rabdosia serra (MAXIM.) HARA.

    PubMed

    Lin, Lianzhu; Zhu, Dashuai; Zou, Linwu; Yang, Bao; Zhao, Mouming

    2013-08-15

    The objective of this work was to conduct an activity-guided isolation of antibacterial compounds from Rabdosia serra. The ethanol extracts of R. serra leaf and stem were partitioned sequentially into petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, butanol and water fractions, respectively. The ethanol extract of leaf evidenced broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacterial, including Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes. The ethyl acetate fractions of leaf and stem exhibited strong inhibition against gram-positive bacteria, and were then purified further. On the basis of antibacterial assay-guided purification, three phenolic compounds (rosmarinic acid, methyl rosmarinate and pedalitin) and four C-20 oxygenated ent-kauranes (effusanin E, lasiodin, rabdosichuanin D and a new compound namely effusanin F) were obtained, whose contents were determined by HPLC analysis. The broth microdilution method confirmed the important inhibition potential of C-20 oxygenated ent-kauranes with low minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. Effusanin E, lasiodin and effusanin F could be useful for the development of new antibacterial agents. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Alleviation of the effects of saline-alkaline stress on maize seedlings by regulation of active oxygen metabolism by Trichoderma asperellum.

    PubMed

    Fu, Jian; Liu, Zhihua; Li, Zuotong; Wang, Yufeng; Yang, Kejun

    2017-01-01

    This study investigated the influence of Trichoderma asperellum on active oxygen production in maize seedlings under saline-alkaline stress conditions. Two maize cultivars were tested: 'Jiangyu 417' ('JY417'), which can tolerate saline-alkaline stress; and, 'Xianyu 335' ('XY335'), which is sensitive to saline-alkaline stress. The seedlings were grown on natural saline-alkaline soil (pH 9.30) in plastic pots. To each liter of saline-alkaline soil, 200 mL of T. asperellum spore suspension was applied; three fungal suspensions were used, namely, 1 × 103, 1 × 106, and 1 × 109 spores/L. A control with only the vehicle applied was also established, along with a second control in which untreated meadow soil (pH 8.23) was used. Root and leaf samples were collected when the seedlings had three heart-shaped leaves and the fourth was in the developmental phase. Physical and biochemical parameters related to oxidation resistance were assessed. The results indicated that the 'JY417' and 'XY335' seedlings showed different degrees of oxidative damage and differences in their antioxidant defense systems under saline-alkaline stress. As the spore density of the fungal suspension increased, the K+ and Ca2+ contents in the seedlings increased, but Na+ content decreased. Moreover, fungal treatment promoted the synthesis or accumulation of osmolytes, which enhanced the water absorbing capacity of the cells, increased antioxidant enzyme activities, enhanced the content of non-enzyme antioxidants, and reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Fungal treatment alleviated oxidative damage caused by the saline-alkaline stress in roots and leaves of the seedlings. The application of T. asperellum overcame the inhibitory effect of saline-alkaline soil stress on the growth of maize seedlings. In the present experiment, application with 1 × 109 spores/L gave the optimal results.

  15. Adsorption of lead on multi-walled carbon nanotubes with different outer diameters and oxygen contents: kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamics.

    PubMed

    Yu, Fei; Wu, Yanqing; Ma, Jie; Zhang, Chi

    2013-01-01

    The effects of different outer diameters and surface oxygen contents on the adsorption of heavy metals onto six types of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were investigated in an aqueous solution and lead was chosen as a model metal ion. The results indicated that the percentage removal and adsorption capacity of lead remarkably increased with decreasing outer diameter due to larger specific surface area (SSA). The SSA-normalized maximum adsorption capacity (qmSSA) and SSA-normalized adsorption coefficient (Kd/SSA) were strongly positively correlated with surface oxygen content, implying that lead adsorption onto MWCNTs significantly increases with the rise of oxygen content and decreases with decreasing SSA. The calculated thermodynamic parameters indicated that adsorption of lead on MWCNTs was endothermic and spontaneous. When the oxygen content of MWCNTs increased from 2.0% to 5.9%, the standard free energy (deltaG0) became more negative, which implied that the oxygenated functional groups increased the adsorption affinity of MWCNTs for lead. Through calculation of enthalpy (deltaH0), deltaG0 and free energy of adsorption (Ea), lead adsorption onto MWCNTs was recognized as a chemisorption process. The chemical interaction between lead and the phenolic groups of MWCNTs could be one of the main adsorption mechanisms due to highly positive correlations between the phenolic groups and Kd/SSA or qm/SSA.

  16. Characterizing the mechanism of thiazolidinedione-induced hepatotoxicity: An in vitro model in mitochondria

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hu, Dan; Wu, Chun-qi; Li, Ze-jun

    Objective: To characterize the mechanism of action of thiazolidinedione (TZD)-induced liver mitochondrial toxicity caused by troglitazone, rosiglitazone, and pioglitazone in HepaRG cells. Methods: Human hepatoma cells (HepaRG) were treated with troglitazone, rosiglitazone, or pioglitazone (12.5, 25, and 50 μM) for 48 h. The Seahorse Biosciences XF24 Flux Analyzer was used to measure mitochondrial oxygen consumption. The effect of TZDs on reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were detected by flow cytometry. The mitochondrial ultrastructure of HepaRG cells was observed under a transmission electrical microscope (TEM). mtDNA content was evaluated by real-time PCR, and ATP content and mitochondrialmore » respiratory chain (MRC) complex I, II, III, IV activity were measured via chemiluminescence. Results were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05. Results: Among the three drugs, troglitazone exhibited the highest potency, followed by rosiglitazone, and then pioglitazone. The TZDs caused varying degrees of mitochondrial respiratory function disorders including decreases in oxygen consumption, MRC activity, and ATP level, and an elevation in ROS level. TZD treatment resulted in mtDNA content decline, reduction in MMP, and alterations of mitochondrial structure. Conclusion: All investigated TZDs show a certain degree of mitochondrial toxicity, with troglitazone exhibiting the highest potency. The underlying mechanism of TZD-induced hepatotoxicity may be associated with alterations in mitochondrial respiratory function disorders, oxidative stress, and changes in membrane permeability. These parameters may be used early in drug development to further optimize risk:benefit profiles. - Highlights: • We compared three TZD mitochondrial toxicity characteristics in HepaRG cells. • TZD induced respiratory disorders and mitochondrial structural damage. • Mitochondrial toxicity evaluation presents guidance value for hepatotoxicity.« less

  17. Method of controlling injection of oxygen into hydrogen-rich fuel cell feed stream

    DOEpatents

    Meltser, Mark Alexander; Gutowski, Stanley; Weisbrod, Kirk

    2001-01-01

    A method of operating a H.sub.2 --O.sub.2 fuel cell fueled by hydrogen-rich fuel stream containing CO. The CO content is reduced to acceptable levels by injecting oxygen into the fuel gas stream. The amount of oxygen injected is controlled in relation to the CO content of the fuel gas, by a control strategy that involves (a) determining the CO content of the fuel stream at a first injection rate, (b) increasing the O.sub.2 injection rate, (c) determining the CO content of the stream at the higher injection rate, (d) further increasing the O.sub.2 injection rate if the second measured CO content is lower than the first measured CO content or reducing the O.sub.2 injection rate if the second measured CO content is greater than the first measured CO content, and (e) repeating steps a-d as needed to optimize CO consumption and minimize H.sub.2 consumption.

  18. Efficacy of aqueous extract of Hippophae rhamnoides and its bio-active flavonoids against hypoxia-induced cell death.

    PubMed

    Tulsawani, Rajkumar; Gupta, Rashmi; Misra, Kshipra

    2013-01-01

    To investigate the protective efficacy of aqueous extract of Hippophae rhamnoides against chronic hypoxic injury using primary rat hepatocytes. The extract was prepared using maceration method and characterized by its phenolic and flavonoid content and chemical antioxidant capacity using ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Hepatocytes were maintained in hypoxia chamber (3% and 1% oxygen) for 72 h. The cells kept under normoxic condition served as control. The cells were treated with the extract and flavonoids; isorhamentin, kaempferol or qurecetin-3-galactoside. After the end of exposure period; cell survival, reactive oxygen species (ROS), leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were measured. The extract showed presence of high phenolic and flavonoid content with significant antioxidant activity in chemical assay. The cell exposed to hypoxia showed concentration dependent cell death and harbored higher reactive oxygen species. In addition, these cells showed significant leakage of intracellular LDH, ALT, and AST accompanied by the diminished levels/activities of GSH, GPx, and SOD. The treatment of cells with aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides reduced hypoxia-induced cell death and prevented increase in ROS levels and leakage of intracellular LDH, ALT, and AST from cells. Moreover, these cells maintained better levels/activities of GSH, GPx, and SOD in comparison to the respective controls. The major flavonoids present in aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides; quercetin-3-galactoside, kaempferol, and isorhamentin also prevented hypoxia induced cell injury individually or in combination, however, the protection offered by these compounds taken together could not match to that of the extract. Overall the findings reveal significance of aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides in controlling ROS-meditated hypoxic injury in cells and can be useful in many hepatic complications.

  19. International Regulations of Propolis Quality: Required Assays do not Necessarily Reflect their Polyphenolic-Related In Vitro Activities.

    PubMed

    Bridi, Raquel; Montenegro, Gloria; Nuñez-Quijada, Gabriel; Giordano, Ady; Fernanda Morán-Romero, Maria; Jara-Pezoa, Isaac; Speisky, Hernán; Atala, Elias; López-Alarcón, Camilo

    2015-06-01

    Propolis has been proposed as a polyphenolic-rich natural product potentially able to be used for human consumption or even for medicinal proposes. To guarantee a minimum phenolic and flavonoid content and as consequence of their related-biological activities, international requirements of propolis quality are commonly applied. In this work we assessed phenolic and flavonoid contents of propolis; the antioxidant capacity (toward peroxyl radicals and hypochlorous acid); the ability to generate nitric oxide (NO); and, finally the antimicrobial activity of 6 propolis samples from the VI region of Chile. Our results show that the total phenolic and flavonoid content of propolis samples are not always in agreement with their polyphenolic-associated in vitro activities. For example, P03 and P06 samples showed the lowest (25 ± 4 GAE/g propolis) and the highest (105 ± 3 GAE/g propolis) total phenolic content, respectively. This was in agreement with flavonoid content and their Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) activity. However, this dependence was not observed toward HOCl, NO release and antimicrobial activity. Based on our results, we consider that, in order to guarantee the antioxidant or antimicrobial in vitro effects, the international regulations of propolis quality should contemplate the convenience of incorporating other simple analytical test such as ORAC or antimicrobial tests. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

  20. Neuromuscular transmission and muscle fatigue changes by nanostructured oxygen.

    PubMed

    Ivannikov, Maxim V; Sugimori, Mutsuyuki; Llinás, Rodolfo R

    2017-04-01

    Oxygen (O 2 ) nanobubbles offer a new method for tissue oxygenation. The effects of O 2 nanobubbles on transmission at neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) and muscle function were explored in murine diaphragm. Electrophysiological parameters, NMJ ultrastructure, muscle force, and muscle fatigue were studied during superfusion with solutions with different oxygen levels or oxygen nanobubbles. High frequency nerve stimulation of muscles superfused with O 2 nanobubble solution slowed neurotransmission decline over those with either control or hyperoxic solution. O 2 nanobubble solution increased the amplitude of evoked end plate potentials and quantal content but did not affect spontaneous activity. Electron microscopy of stimulated O 2 nanobubble treated NMJs showed accumulation of large synaptic vesicles and endosome-like structures. O 2 nanobubble solution had no effects on isometric muscle force, but it significantly decreased fatigability and maximum force recovery time in nerve stimulated muscles. O 2 nanobubbles increase neurotransmission and reduce the probability of neurotransmission failure in muscle fatigue. Muscle Nerve 55: 555-563, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  1. Ultimate intrinsic-coercivity samarium-cobalt magnet: An Earth-based feasibility study for space-shuttle missions. [containerless melts

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Das, D. K.; Kumar, K.; Frost, R. T.; Chang, C. W.

    1980-01-01

    Techniques for containerless melting and solidification of the samarium-cobalt alloy without excessive oxidation were developed. The rationale for extending these experiments in a weightless environment is also discussed. The effect of oxygen content from 0.15 to 0.63 weight percent and grain size in the range of 2 to 10 micrometers has been examined on arc-plasma-sprayed SmCo5 magnets. Contrary to expectations, the larger grain sizes tended to improve the coercivities. This was attributed to an increase in homogeneity resulting from higher temperature treatments used to produce larger grain size. No significant differences in coercivity were observed on the basis of oxygen content in the range examined. It is expected that more meaningful data on the relationship between oxygen content and coercivity will be seen when the oxygen content can be lowered to less than 0.1 weight percent.

  2. Processes for washing a spent ion exchange bed and for treating biomass-derived pyrolysis oil, and apparatuses for treating biomass-derived pyrolysis oil

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Baird, Lance Awender; Brandvold, Timothy A.

    Processes and apparatuses for washing a spent ion exchange bed and for treating biomass-derived pyrolysis oil are provided herein. An exemplary process for washing a spent ion exchange bed employed in purification of biomass-derived pyrolysis oil includes the step of providing a ion-depleted pyrolysis oil stream having an original oxygen content. The ion-depleted pyrolysis oil stream is partially hydrotreated to reduce the oxygen content thereof, thereby producing a partially hydrotreated pyrolysis oil stream having a residual oxygen content that is less than the original oxygen content. At least a portion of the partially hydrotreated pyrolysis oil stream is passed throughmore » the spent ion exchange bed. Water is passed through the spent ion exchange bed after passing at least the portion of the partially hydrotreated pyrolysis oil stream therethrough.« less

  3. Effects of atmospheric nonthermal plasma on invasion of colorectal cancer cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, Chul-Ho; Kwon, Seyeoul; Bahn, Jae Hoon; Lee, Keunho; Jun, Seung Ik; Rack, Philip D.; Baek, Seung Joon

    2010-06-01

    The effect that the gas content and plasma power of atmospheric, nonthermal plasma has on the invasion activity in colorectal cancer cells has been studied. Helium and helium plus oxygen plasmas were induced through a nozzle and operated with an ac power of less than 10 kV which exhibited a length of 2.5 cm and a diameter of 3-4 mm in ambient air. Treatment of cancer cells with the plasma jet resulted in a decrease in cell migration/invasion with higher plasma intensity and the addition of oxygen to the He flow gas.

  4. Investigation of Redox Metal Oxides for Carbonaceous Fuel Conversion and CO2 Capture

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Galinsky, Nathan Lee

    The chemical looping combustion (CLC) process uses metal oxides, also referred to as oxygen carriers, in a redox scheme for conversion of carbonaceous fuels into a concentrated stream of CO2 and steam while also producing heat and electricity. The unique redox scheme of CLC allows CO2 capture with minimal energy penalty. The CLC process performance greatly depends on the oxygen carrier that is chosen. To date, more than 1000 oxygen carriers have been developed for chemical-looping processes using metal oxides containing first-row transition metals. Oxygen carriers are typically mixed with an inert ceramic support to improve their overall mechanical stability and recyclability. This study focuses on design of (i) iron oxide oxygen carriers for conversion of gaseous carbonaceous fuels and (ii) development of perovskite CaMnO 3-d with improved stability and redox properties for conversion of solid fuels. Iron oxide is cheap and environmentally benign. However, it suffers from low activity with carbonaceous fuels due partially to the low ionic conductivity of iron oxides. In order to address the low activity of iron-oxide-based oxygen carriers, support addition has been shown to lower the energy barrier of oxygen anion transport within the oxygen carrier. This work adds a mixed-ionic-and-electronic-conductor (MIEC) support to iron oxide to help facilitate O2- transport inside the lattice of iron oxide. The MIEC-supported iron oxide is compared to commonly used supports including TiO2 and Al2O 3 and the pure ionic conductor support yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) for conversion of different carbonaceous fuels and hydrogen. Results show that the MIEC-supported iron oxide exhibits up to 70 times higher activity than non-MIEC-supported iron oxides for methane conversion. The MIEC supported iron oxide also shows good recyclability with only minor agglomeration and carbon formation observed. The effect of support-iron oxide synergies is further investigated to understand other physical and chemical properties that lead to highly active and recyclable oxygen carriers. Perovskite and fluorite-structured MIEC supports are tested for conversion of methane. The perovskite supported iron oxides exhibit higher activity and stability resulting from the high mixed conductivity of the support. Fluorite-structured CeO2 oxygen carriers deactivated by 75% after 10 redox cycles. This deactivation was attributed to agglomeration of iron oxide. The agglomeration was determined to occur due to Fe x+ transport during the oxidation step leading to high content of Fe on the surface of the oxygen carrier. Besides the MIEC supports, inert MgAl2O4 supported iron oxide is observed to activate in methane. The activation is attributed to carbon formation causing physical degradation of the oxygen carrier and leading to higher surface area and porosity. To achieve high activity with solid fuels, chemical looping with oxygen uncoupling (CLOU) is commonly used. This process uses oxygen carriers with high PO2 that allows the oxygen carrier to release a portion of their lattice oxygen as gaseous oxygen. In turn, the gaseous oxygen can react with solid fuel particles at a higher rate than the lattice oxygen. CaMnO 3 perovskite oxygen carriers offer high potential for CLOU. However, pure CaMnO3 suffers from long-term recyclability and sulfur poisoning. Addition of A-site (Ba and Sr) and B-site (Fe, Ni, Co, Al, and V) dopants are used to improve the performance of the base CaMnO3 oxygen carrier. Sr (A-site) and Fe (B-site) exhibit high compatibility with the base perovskite structure. Both dopants observe oxygen uncoupling properties up to 200°C below that of pure CaMnO3. Additionally, the doped structures also exhibit higher stability at high temperatures (>1000°C) and during redox cycles. The doped oxygen carriers also demonstrate significantly improved activity for coal char conversion.

  5. Dissolved oxygen content as an index of water quality in San Vicente Bay, Chile (36 degrees 45'S).

    PubMed

    Rudolph, Anny; Ahumada, Ramón; Pérez, Claudio

    2002-08-01

    The present report describes some effects of industrial and municipal effluents on the waters of San Vicente Bay. Analyses of the main substances contained in the fishing industry effluent suggest rating criteria based on the oxygen saturation of the water as an assessment of organic pollution. Six cruises were carried out throughout the Bay, from June to December 1996. Water samples were analyzed for dissolved oxygen, oil and grease content, and sediment samples for organic matter content. Water parameters (salinity, temperature) were used to characterize the Bay's hydrography, and to calculate values for oxygen saturation. The measurements demonstrated a local broad range of oxygen deficit, with a maximum of 45% in the winter to 95% in the spring. In November more than 65% of the Bay's area showed oxygen deficits greater than 40%. Organic matter was unusually high in sediments along the northern sector of the Bay. The results suggest that the oxygen depletion was a representative parameter for establishing a relative scale of water quality in this Bay.

  6. Surface Segregation in Ag/TiOx 3D Nanocomposite Prepared by Physical Vapor Deposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xiong, J.; He, L. Y.

    2018-05-01

    The antimicrobial activities of silver based nanocomposites are usually studied in terms of Ag content and ion release rate. Under this condition, controllable silver ions release with high antibacterial activity is the basis for silver based nanocomposite. The goal is to investigate the influence of O2 content and titanium oxide barrier thickness on the evolution in morphology. The SEM/TEM results showed that the size of Ag nanoparticles has a clear dependence on O2 concentration in reactive sputtering process; increased oxygen implies larger Ag nanoparticles in the matrix. In addition, a clear suppressing effect and better size distribution is obtained after the thickness of coated titanium oxide barrier is verified.

  7. Vacuum ultraviolet trimming of oxygenated functional groups from oxidized self-assembled hexadecyl monolayers in an evacuated environment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Soliman, Ahmed I. A.; Utsunomiya, Toru; Ichii, Takashi; Sugimura, Hiroyuki

    2017-09-01

    Vacuum ultraviolet light irradiation in dry air generates active oxygen species, which have powerful oxidation abilities. These active oxygen species (O) can oxidize the alkyl moieties of polymers, and generate new oxygenated groups such as OH, CHO and COOH groups. Reducing the oxygen content in the exposure environment decreases the rate of oxidation processes. In this study, we examined the influences of the 172 nm VUV irradiation in a high vacuum (HV, < 10-3 Pa) environment on the chemical constituents, surface properties and morphological structure of well-defined VUV/(O)-modified hexadecyl (HD-) self-assembled monolayer (SAM) prepared on hydrogen-terminated silicon (H-Si) substrate. After VUV light irradiation in a HV environment (HV-VUV), the chemical constituents and surface properties were changed in two distinct stages. At short irradiation time (the first stage), the Csbnd O and COO groups decreased rapidly, while the Cdbnd O groups slightly changed. The dissociation of nonderivatizable groups (such as ether (Csbnd Osbnd C) and ester (Csbnd COOsbnd C) groups) compensated the dissociated OH, CHO, Csbnd COsbnd C and COOH groups. With further irradiation (the second stage), the quantities of the oxygenated groups slightly decreased. The carbon skeleton (Csbnd C) of SAM was scarcely dissociated during the HV-VUV treatment. These chemical changes affected the surface properties, such as wettability and morphology.

  8. [Research on human movement with noninvasive tissue oximeter using near infrared spectroscopy].

    PubMed

    Lin, Hong; Xi, Yu-bao; Yu, Hui

    2014-06-01

    The present paper discusses how to monitor and analyze the relative change in muscle oxygen content in quadriceps tissue, and measures and records the change in blood lactate acid concentration, blood volume and heart rate when eight players who are good at middle-distance races perform grade incremental intensity exercise on cycle ergometer by using noninvasive tissue oximeter with near infrared spectroscopy produced by China independently. The results show that muscle oxygen content has a close relationship (p < 0.01)with exercise load, blood lactic acid, blood volume and heart rate. When determined muscle oxygen content and blood lactate acid concentration was determined for many times to the same person, the test proved regular falling and rising. There was no significant changes when analyzed each set of the data was analyzed through horizontal comparison. It verifies we can judge the subjects's endurable exercise intensity and the upward inflection point of blood lactic acid corresponding to the decreasing inflection point of blood lactate acid concentration & muscle oxygen content according to the muscle oxygen content change of skeletal muscle while exercising. This paper shows NIRS research status and present situation in sports field through investigation, and analyzes the main trouble and research tendency in the future. By understanding NIRS technology gradually, the authors can realize that the muscle oxygen content which measured by noninvasive tissue oximeter using near infrared spectroscopy produced by China independently is a sensitive, nondestructive, up-to-date and reliable index, it has irreplaceable advantages when compared with traditional invasive, excised and fussy test methods.

  9. Plant physiology and proteomics reveals the leaf response to drought in alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)

    PubMed Central

    Aranjuelo, Iker; Molero, Gemma; Erice, Gorka; Avice, Jean Christophe; Nogués, Salvador

    2011-01-01

    Despite its relevance, protein regulation, metabolic adjustment, and the physiological status of plants under drought is not well understood in relation to the role of nitrogen fixation in nodules. In this study, nodulated alfalfa plants were exposed to drought conditions. The study determined the physiological, metabolic, and proteomic processes involved in photosynthetic inhibition in relation to the decrease in nitrogenase (Nase) activity. The deleterious effect of drought on alfalfa performance was targeted towards photosynthesis and Nase activity. At the leaf level, photosynthetic inhibition was mainly caused by the inhibition of Rubisco. The proteomic profile and physiological measurements revealed that the reduced carboxylation capacity of droughted plants was related to limitations in Rubisco protein content, activation state, and RuBP regeneration. Drought also decreased amino acid content such as asparagine, and glutamic acid, and Rubisco protein content indicating that N availability limitations were caused by Nase activity inhibition. In this context, drought induced the decrease in Rubisco binding protein content at the leaf level and proteases were up-regulated so as to degrade Rubisco protein. This degradation enabled the reallocation of the Rubisco-derived N to the synthesis of amino acids with osmoregulant capacity. Rubisco degradation under drought conditions was induced so as to remobilize Rubisco-derived N to compensate for the decrease in N associated with Nase inhibition. Metabolic analyses showed that droughted plants increased amino acid (proline, a major compound involved in osmotic regulation) and soluble sugar (D-pinitol) levels to contribute towards the decrease in osmotic potential (Ψs). At the nodule level, drought had an inhibitory effect on Nase activity. This decrease in Nase activity was not induced by substrate shortage, as reflected by an increase in total soluble sugars (TSS) in the nodules. Proline accumulation in the nodule could also be associated with an osmoregulatory response to drought and might function as a protective agent against ROS. In droughted nodules, the decrease in N2 fixation was caused by an increase in oxygen resistance that was induced in the nodule. This was a mechanism to avoid oxidative damage associated with reduced respiration activity and the consequent increase in oxygen content. This study highlighted that even though drought had a direct effect on leaves, the deleterious effects of drought on nodules also conditioned leaf responsiveness. PMID:20797998

  10. Variability in magnesium, carbon and oxygen isotope compositions, and trace element contents of brachiopod shells: implications for paleoceanographic studies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rollion-Bard, Claire; Saulnier, Ségolène; Vigier, Nathalie; Schumacher, Aimryc; Chaussidon, Marc; Lécuyer, Christophe

    2016-04-01

    Magnesium content in the ocean is ≈ 1290 ppm and is one of the most abundant elements. It is involved in the carbon cycle via the dissolution and precipitation of carbonates, especially Mg-rich carbonates as dolomites. The Mg/Ca ratio of the ocean is believed to have changed through time. The causes of these variations, i.e. hydrothermal activity change or enhanced precipitation of dolomite, could be constrained using the magnesium isotope composition (δ26Mg) of carbonates. Brachiopods, as marine environmental proxies, have the advantage to occur worldwide in a depth range from intertidal to abyssal, and have been found in the geological record since the Cambrian. Moreover, as their shell is in low-Mg calcite, they are quite resistant to diagenetic processes. Here we report δ26Mg, δ18O, δ13C values along with trace element contents of one modern brachiopod specimen (Terebratalia transversa) and one fossil specimen (Terebratula scillae, 2.3 Ma). We combined δ26Mg values with oxygen and carbon isotope compositions and trace element contents to look for possible shell geochemical heterogeneities in order to investigate the processes that control the Mg isotope composition of brachiopod shells. We also evaluate the potential of brachiopods as a proxy of past seawater δ26Mg values. The two investigated brachiopod shells present the same range of δ26Mg variation (up to 2 ‰)). This variation cannot be ascribed to changes in environmental parameters, i.e. temperature or pH. As previously observed, the primary layer of calcite shows the largest degree of oxygen and carbon isotope disequilibrium relative to seawater. In contrast, the δ26Mg value of this layer is comparable to that of the secondary calcite layer value. In both T. scillae and T. transversa, negative trends are observable between magnesium isotopic compositions and oxygen and carbon isotopic compositions. These trends, combined to linear relationships between δ26Mg values and REE contents, are best explained by kinetic effects linked to changes in growth rate during the brachiopod life. The innermost calcite layer of T. transversa is in isotopic equilibrium for both oxygen and magnesium and could therefore be the best target for reconstructing past δ26Mg values of seawater.

  11. Antioxidant capacity of parsley cells (Petroselinum crispum L.) in relation to iron-induced ferritin levels and static magnetic field.

    PubMed

    Rajabbeigi, Elham; Ghanati, Faezeh; Abdolmaleki, Parviz; Payez, Atefeh

    2013-12-01

    This study was aimed to evaluate antioxidant response of parsley cells to 21 ppm iron and static magnetic field (SMF; 30 mT). The activity of catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and the contents of malonyldialdehyde, iron and ferritin were measured at 6 and 12 h after treatments. Exposure to SMF increased the activity of CAT in treated cells, while combination of iron and SMF treatments as well as iron supply alone decreased CAT activity, compared to that of control cells. Combination of SMF with iron treatment reduced iron content of the cells and ameliorated mal effect of iron on CAT activity. All treatments reduced APX activity; however, the content of total ascorbate increased in response to iron and SMF+iron. The results showed that among the components of antioxidant system of parsley cells, enhanced activity of CAT in SMF-treated cells and increase of ascorbate in SMF+Fe-treated ones were responsible for the maintenance of membranes integrity. Ferritin contents of SMF- and SMF+Fe-treated cells also decreased significantly 12 h after treatments, compared to those of the control cells. These results cast doubt on the proposed functions of ferritin as a putative reactive oxygen species detoxifying molecule.

  12. Characterization of Phenolic Compounds in Wine Lees

    PubMed Central

    Zhijing, Ye; Shavandi, Amin; Harrison, Roland; Bekhit, Alaa El-Din A.

    2018-01-01

    The effect of vinification techniques on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of wine lees are poorly understood. The present study investigated the antioxidant activity of white and red wine lees generated at early fermentation and during aging. In this study, the total phenol content (TPC), total tannin content (TTC), mean degree of polymerization (mDP), and antioxidant activities of five white and eight red wine lees samples from different vinification backgrounds were determined. The results showed that vinification techniques had a significant (p < 0.05) impact on total phenol and tannin content of the samples. White wine lees had high mDP content compared with red ones. Catechin (50–62%) and epicatechin contents were the predominant terminal units of polymeric proanthocyanidin extracted from examined samples. Epigallocatechin was the predominant extension unit of white wine lees, whereas epicatechin was the predominant compound in red wine marc. The ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) assay was strongly correlated with the DPPH (α,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl) assay, and the results showed the strong antioxidant activities associated with red wine lees (PN > 35 mg Trolox/g FDM) (PN: Pinot noir lees; FDM: Freeze-dried Material). This study indicates that tannin is one of the major phenolic compounds available in wine lees that can be useful in human and animal health applications. PMID:29587406

  13. Characterization of Phenolic Compounds in Wine Lees.

    PubMed

    Zhijing, Ye; Shavandi, Amin; Harrison, Roland; Bekhit, Alaa El-Din A

    2018-03-25

    The effect of vinification techniques on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of wine lees are poorly understood. The present study investigated the antioxidant activity of white and red wine lees generated at early fermentation and during aging. In this study, the total phenol content (TPC), total tannin content (TTC), mean degree of polymerization (mDP), and antioxidant activities of five white and eight red wine lees samples from different vinification backgrounds were determined. The results showed that vinification techniques had a significant ( p < 0.05) impact on total phenol and tannin content of the samples. White wine lees had high mDP content compared with red ones. Catechin (50-62%) and epicatechin contents were the predominant terminal units of polymeric proanthocyanidin extracted from examined samples. Epigallocatechin was the predominant extension unit of white wine lees, whereas epicatechin was the predominant compound in red wine marc. The ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) assay was strongly correlated with the DPPH (α, α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl) assay, and the results showed the strong antioxidant activities associated with red wine lees (PN > 35 mg Trolox/g FDM) (PN: Pinot noir lees; FDM: Freeze-dried Material). This study indicates that tannin is one of the major phenolic compounds available in wine lees that can be useful in human and animal health applications.

  14. Tensile Fracture Behavior of 316L Austenitic Stainless Steel Manufactured by Hot Isostatic Pressing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cooper, A. J.; Brayshaw, W. J.; Sherry, A. H.

    2018-02-01

    Herein we investigate how the oxygen content in hot isostatically pressed (HIP'd) 316L stainless steel affects the mechanical properties and tensile fracture behavior. This work follows on from previous studies, which aimed to understand the effect of oxygen content on the Charpy impact toughness of HIP'd steel. We expand on the work by performing room-temperature tensile testing on different heats of 316L stainless steel, which contain different levels of interstitial elements (carbon and nitrogen) as well as oxygen in the bulk material. Throughout the work we repeat the experiments on conventionally forged 316L steel as a reference material. The analysis of the work indicates that oxygen does not contribute to a measureable solution strengthening mechanism, as is the case with carbon and nitrogen in austenitic stainless steels (Werner in Mater Sci Eng A 101:93-98, 1988). Neither does oxygen, in the form of oxide inclusions, contribute to precipitation hardening due to the size and spacing of particles. However, the oxide particles do influence fracture behavior; fractography of the failed tension test specimens indicates that the average ductile dimple size is related to the oxygen content in the bulk material, the results of which support an on-going hypothesis relating oxygen content in HIP'd steels to their fracture mechanisms by providing additional sites for the initiation of ductile damage in the form of voids.

  15. Study of Cleanliness of High Nitrogen Steel in ESR

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xuwei, Tang; Rong, Zhu

    This paper compares inclusions in high nitrogen steel before and after ESR process, analyzes the influence of slag systems and total oxygen content in consumable ingots. The total oxygen content is reduced apparently during ESR process, which indicates good effects on removal of inclusions. In the experiment, it shows that different slag systems will affect the result of inclusions removal significantly; proper w(CaO/Al2O3) will reduce the level of inclusions and total oxygen content in ESR ingots. In ESR process, the type and chemical composition of inclusions have no difference when oxygen content in consumable ingots is different, which means O content in consumable ingots have no direct relationship with cleanliness of ESR ingots. In typical inclusions, w(MnO)/w(MnO+Al2O3)≈0.23 0.32. The total oxygen content of ESR ingots keeps between 20 30ppm when the oxygen contents in consumable ingots are diverse from 40 to 100ppm. Meanwhile, this paper studies desulfurization process of high nitrogen steel in ESR, analyzes the influence of slag systems a nd remelting rates on desulfurization efficiency. The results indicate that the average size and quant ity of sulfide inclusion decrease after ESR process. The typical inclusion after ESR process is MnS+Al2O3. Slag system with proper CaO content has higher sulfur partition ratio, which leads to better desulfurization effect. The desulfurization rate changes greatly with different remelting rates, which indicates the kinetic parameter has more influence in desulfurization. The reason of this phenomenon is that the process of desulfurization can be considered as a non-equilibrium reaction, which differs with thermodynamic equilibrium. In kinetic study, it is founded that the desulfurization efficiency increases with higher remelting area, sulfur partition and lower remelting rate, which is different from experiment. The desulfurization efficiency decreases firstly and then recovers when remelting rate drops. The enrichment of sulfide in slag results in resulfurization in steel, which leads to lower desulfurization efficiency.

  16. Effects of increased inspired oxygen concentration on tissue oxygenation: theoretical considerations.

    PubMed

    Lumb, Andrew B; Nair, Sindhu

    2010-03-01

    Breathing increased fractional oxygen concentration (FiO2) is recommended for the treatment of tissue ischaemia. The theoretical benefits of increasing FiO2 on tissue oxygenation were evaluated using standard physiological equations. Assuming constant oxygen consumption by tissues throughout the length of a capillary, the oxygen content at 20 arbitrary points along a capillary was calculated. Using mathematical representations of the haemoglobin dissociation curve and an iterative approach to include the dissolved oxygen component of oxygen content, the oxygen partial pressure (PO2) profile along a capillary was estimated. High FiO2 concentrations cause large increases in PO2 at the arteriolar end of capillaries but these large PO2 values, caused by the extra dissolved oxygen, rapidly decline along the capillary. At the venular end of the capillary (the area of tissue most likely to be hypoxic), breathing oxygen causes only a modest improvement in PO2. Increasing FiO2 to treat tissue hypoxia has clear benefits, but a multimodal approach to management is required.

  17. Chemical composition and physicochemical properties of Phaeodactylum tricornutum microalgal residual biomass.

    PubMed

    German-Báez, L J; Valdez-Flores, M A; Félix-Medina, J V; Norzagaray-Valenzuela, C D; Santos-Ballardo, D U; Reyes-Moreno, C; Shelton, L M; Valdez-Ortiz, A

    2017-12-01

    The production of photosynthetic biofuels using microalgae is a promising strategy to combat the use of non-renewable energy sources. The microalgae residual biomass is a waste by-product of biofuel production; however, it could prove to have utility in the development of sustainable nutraceuticals and functional foods. In this study, a comprehensive characterisation of the under-utilised Phaeodactylum tricornutum microalgae residual biomass is presented. Proximal composition, antioxidant capacity (using three different antioxidant assays; oxygen radical absorbance capacity; radical cation activity, ABTS; and radical scavenging activity, DPPH), and total phenolic content of free and bound polyphenols were determined. Additionally, the physicochemical properties of water activity, pH, water absorption index, water solubility index, and dispersibility were evaluated. Results revealed that P. tricornutum microalgae residual biomass exhibits a relatively high protein and carbohydrate content, with values of 36.67% and 46.78%, respectively; and most carbohydrates were found as total dietary fibre (45.57%), of which insoluble dietary fibre was the most predominant (43.54%). Antioxidant capacity values for total phytochemicals of 106.22, 67.93, 9.54 µM TE g -1 dw were determined by oxygen radical absorbance capacity, ABTS, and DPPH assays, respectively. Total phenolic content was found to be 2.90 mg GAE g -1 dw. Interestingly, antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content were higher in bound than in free phytochemical extracts. The physicochemical analysis showed P. tricornutum microalgae residual biomass to have suitable properties for the generation of a beverage with Aw, pH, water absorption index, water solubility index, and dispersibility values of 0.45, 7.12, 3.40 g gel g -1  dw, 2.5 g solids 100 g -1  dw, and 90%, respectively. Hence, P. tricornutum microalgae residual biomass could be considered a potential source of bioactive compounds suitable for the production of functional food exhibiting antioxidant capacity and high dietary fibre content.

  18. Mitochondrial dysfunction in blood cells from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients.

    PubMed

    Ehinger, Johannes K; Morota, Saori; Hansson, Magnus J; Paul, Gesine; Elmér, Eskil

    2015-06-01

    Mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, where the progressive degeneration of motor neurons results in muscle atrophy, paralysis and death. Abnormalities in both central nervous system and muscle mitochondria have previously been demonstrated in patient samples, indicating systemic disease. In this case-control study, venous blood samples were acquired from 24 amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients and 21 age-matched controls. Platelets and peripheral blood mononuclear cells were isolated and mitochondrial oxygen consumption measured in intact and permeabilized cells with additions of mitochondrial substrates, inhibitors and titration of an uncoupler. Respiratory values were normalized to cell count and for two markers of cellular mitochondrial content, citrate synthase activity and mitochondrial DNA, respectively. Mitochondrial function was correlated with clinical staging of disease severity. Complex IV (cytochrome c-oxidase)-activity normalized to mitochondrial content was decreased in platelets from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients both when normalized to citrate synthase activity and mitochondrial DNA copy number. In mononuclear cells, complex IV-activity was decreased when normalized to citrate synthase activity. Mitochondrial content was increased in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient platelets. In mononuclear cells, complex I activity declined and mitochondrial content increased progressively with advancing disease stage. The findings are, however, based on small subsets of patients and need to be confirmed. We conclude that when normalized to mitochondria-specific content, complex IV-activity is reduced in blood cells from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients and that there is an apparent compensatory increase in cellular mitochondrial content. This supports systemic involvement in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and suggests further study of mitochondrial function in blood cells as a future biomarker for the disease.

  19. Brain tissue oxygen tension is more indicative of oxygen diffusion than oxygen delivery and metabolism in patients with traumatic brain injury.

    PubMed

    Rosenthal, Guy; Hemphill, J Claude; Sorani, Marco; Martin, Christine; Morabito, Diane; Obrist, Walter D; Manley, Geoffrey T

    2008-06-01

    Despite the growing clinical use of brain tissue oxygen monitoring, the specific determinants of low brain tissue oxygen tension (P(bt)O2) following severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) remain poorly defined. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether P(bt)O2 more closely reflects variables related to cerebral oxygen diffusion or reflects cerebral oxygen delivery and metabolism. Prospective observational study. Level I trauma center. Fourteen TBI patients with advanced neuromonitoring underwent an oxygen challenge (increase in FiO2 to 1.0) to assess tissue oxygen reactivity, pressure challenge (increase in mean arterial pressure) to assess autoregulation, and CO2 challenge (hyperventilation) to assess cerebral vasoreactivity. None. P(bt)O2 was measured directly with a parenchymal probe in the least-injured hemisphere. Local cerebral blood flow (CBF) was measured with a parenchymal thermal diffusion probe. Cerebral venous blood gases were drawn from a jugular bulb venous catheter. We performed 119 measurements of PaO2, arterial oxygen content (CaO2), jugular bulb venous oxygen tension (PVO2), venous oxygen content (CVO2), arteriovenous oxygen content difference (AVDO2), and local cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (locCMRO2). In multivariable analysis adjusting for various variables of cerebral oxygen delivery and metabolism, the only statistically significant relationship was that between P(bt)O2 and the product of CBF and cerebral arteriovenous oxygen tension difference (AVTO2), suggesting a strong association between brain tissue oxygen tension and diffusion of dissolved plasma oxygen across the blood-brain barrier. Measurements of P(bt)O2 represent the product of CBF and the cerebral AVTO2 rather than a direct measurement of total oxygen delivery or cerebral oxygen metabolism. This improved understanding of the cerebral physiology of P(bt)O2 should enhance the clinical utility of brain tissue oxygen monitoring in patients with TBI.

  20. Responses of Reactive Oxygen Scavenging Enzymes, Proline and Malondialdehyde to Water Deficits among Six Secondary Successional Seral Species in Loess Plateau

    PubMed Central

    Du, Feng; Shi, Huijun; Zhang, Xingchang; Xu, Xuexuan

    2014-01-01

    Drought can impact local vegetation dynamics in a long term. In order to predict the possible successional pathway of local community under drought, the responses of some drought resistance indices of six successional seral species in the semi-arid Loss Hilly Region of China were illustrated and compared on three levels of soil water deficits along three growing months (7, 8 and 9). The results showed that: 1) the six species had significant differences in SOD, POD activities and MDA content. The rank correlations between SOD, POD activities and the successional niche positions of the six species were positive, and the correlation between MDA content and the niche positions was negative; 2) activities of SOD, CAT and POD, and content of proline and MDA had significant differences among the three months; 3) there existed significant interactions of SOD, CAT, POD activities and MDA content between months and species. With an exception, no interaction of proline was found. Proline in leaves had a general decline in reproductive month; 4) SOD, CAT, POD activities and proline content had negative correlations with MDA content. Among which, the correlation between SOD activity and MDA content was significant. The results implied that, in arid or semiarid region, the species at later successional stage tend to have strong drought resistance than those at early stage. Anti-drought indices can partially interpret the pathway of community succession in the drought impacted area. SOD activity is more distinct and important on the scope of protecting membrane damage through the scavenging of ROS on exposure to drought. PMID:24914928

  1. Hydrogenation and hydrodeoxygenation of biomass-derived oxygenates to liquid alkanes for transportation fuels.

    PubMed

    Sun, Shaohui; Yang, Ruishu; Wang, Xin; Yan, Shaokang

    2018-04-01

    An attractive approach for the production of transportation fuels from renewable biomass resources is to convert oxygenates into alkanes. In this paper, C 5 -C 20 alkanes formed via the hydrogenation and hydrodeoxygenation of the oligomers of furfuryl alcohol(FA) can be used as gasoline, diesel and jet fuel fraction. The first step of the process is the oligomers of FA convert into hydrogenated products over Raney Ni catalyst in a batch reactor. The second step of the process converts hydrogenated products to alkanes via hydrodeoxygenation over different bi-functional catalysts include hydrogenation and acidic deoxidization active sites. After this process, the oxygen content decreased from 22.1 wt% in the oligomers of FA to 0.58 wt% in the hydrodeoxygenation products.

  2. Influence of oxygen partial pressure on the characteristics of human hepatocarcinoma cells.

    PubMed

    Trepiana, Jenifer; Meijide, Susana; Navarro, Rosaura; Hernández, M Luisa; Ruiz-Sanz, José Ignacio; Ruiz-Larrea, M Begoña

    2017-08-01

    Most of the in vitro studies using liver cell lines have been performed under atmospheric oxygen partial pressure (21% O 2 ). However, the oxygen concentrations in the liver and cancer cells are far from this value. In the present study, we have evaluated the influence of oxygen on 1) the tumor cell lines features (growth, steady-state ROS levels, GSH content, activities of antioxidant enzymes, p66 Shc and SOD expressions, metalloproteinases secretion, migration, invasion, and adhesion) of human hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines, and b) the response of the cells to an oxidant stimulus (aqueous leaf extract of the V. baccifera plant species). For this purpose, three hepatocarcinoma cell lines with different p53 status, HepG2 (wild-type), Huh7 (mutated), and Hep3B (deleted), were cultured (6-30 days) under atmospheric (21%) and more physiological (8%) pO 2 . Results showed that after long-term culturing at 8% versus 21% O 2 , the cellular proliferation rate and the steady-state levels of mitochondrial O 2 - were unaffected. However, the intracellular basal ROS levels were higher independently of the characteristics of the cell line. Moreover, the lower pO 2 was associated with lower glutathione content, the induction of p66 Shc and Mn-SOD proteins, and increased SOD activity only in HepG2. This cell line also showed a higher migration rate, secretion of active metalloproteinases, and a faster invasion. HepG2 cells were more resistant to the oxidative stress induced by V. baccifera. Results suggest that the long-term culturing of human hepatoma cells at a low, more physiological pO 2 induces antioxidant adaptations that could be mediated by p53, and may alter the cellular response to a subsequent oxidant challenge. Data support the necessity of validating outcomes from studies performed with hepatoma cell cultures under ambient O 2 . Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Analysis of various versions of the deoxidation of rail steel at OAO NTMK

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garber, A. K.; Arsenkin, A. M.; Grigorovich, K. V.; Shibaev, S. S.; Kushnarev, A. V.; Petrenko, Yu. P.

    2009-12-01

    The deoxidation of steel melted using various types of deoxidizers during out-of-furnace treatment is studied. The total oxygen and nitrogen content and the oxygen contents in the main types of oxide nonmetallic inclusions are determined by fractional gas analysis of steel samples taken from heats performed by various schedules. The main types of nonmetallic inclusions and their size distributions are found with qualitative and quantitative metallography. The oxygen content in the rail steel is minimal (5 ppm) when calcium carbide CaC2 is introduced into the metal in tapping of a converter. When the metal is deoxidized using a steel wire filled with calcium or a steel wire filled with silicocalcium, the oxygen content in rail steel is ≈8 and ≈11 ppm, respectively. A comparison of various processes of rail steel deoxidation under the OAO NTMK conditions shows that the limitation of the aluminum content (no more than 30 ppm) or the use of a wire with a calcium or calcium carbide filler is more effective than the use of a wire filled with silicocalcium.

  4. Possible effect of oxygen content on the under-doped characteristics of the La2- xSrxCuO4+ δ compound

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Huanbo; Sato, Hiroshi; Liedl, Gerald L.

    1994-12-01

    The effect of oxygen non-stoichiometry on the superconducting characteristics of the La2- xSrxCuO4+ δ compound in the underdoped region ( x<0.16) is reassessed. Although superconductivity in the La2- xSrxCuO4+ δ compound can be unambiguously attributed to the holes in the CuO 2 sheet in the structure, the hole content (ϱ sh) cannot be regarded as equal to the Sr content, x, as was frequently assumed. The parabolic relation between Tc and x for La2- xSrxCuO4+ δ is shown to not fully represent the intrinsic relation between Tc and hole content for the p-type high- Tc cuprates, but to be related to the variation of oxygen non-stoichiometry in the under-doped region. It is demonstrated that the intrinsic relation of Tc vs. ϱ sh can be derived from the parabolic Tc- x relation in the under-doped region of this system, and vice versa, provided that the variation of oxygen content with x is properly taken into account.

  5. Characterization of activated cyclic olefin copolymer: effects of ethylene/norbornene content on the physiochemical properties.

    PubMed

    O'Neil, Colleen E; Taylor, Scott; Ratnayake, Kumuditha; Pullagurla, Swathi; Singh, Varshni; Soper, Steven A

    2016-11-28

    The ethylene/norbornene content within cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) is well known to affect the chemical and physical properties of the copolymer, such as the glass transition temperature (T g ) and transparency. However, no work has been reported evaluating the effects of the ethylene/norbornene content on the surface properties of COC following UV/O 3 or O 2 plasma activation. Activation with either O 2 plasma or UV/O 3 is often used to assist in thermal assembly of fluidic devices, increasing the wettability of the surfaces, or generating functional scaffolds for the attachment of biological elements. Thus, we investigated differences in the physiochemical surface properties of various ethylene/norbornene compositions of COC following activation using analytical techniques such as water contact angle (WCA), ATR-FTIR, XPS, TOF-SIMS, UV-VIS, AFM and a colorimetric assay utilizing Toluidine Blue O (TBO). Results showed that increased norbornene content led to the generation of more oxygen containing functionalities such as alcohols, ketones, aldehydes and carboxyl groups when activated with either UV/O 3 or O 2 plasma. Specifically, COC with ∼60% norbornene content showed a significantly higher -COOH functional group density when compared to COC with a 50% norbornene content and COC with a 35% norbornene content following UV/O 3 or O 2 plasma activation. Furthermore, COC with large norbornene contents showed a smaller average RMS roughness (0.65 nm) when compared to COC containing low norbornene contents (0.95 nm) following activation making this substrate especially suited for nanofluidic applications, which require smooth surfaces to minimize effects arising from dielectrophoretic trapping or non-specific adsorption. Although all COC substrates showed >90% transparency at wavelengths >475 nm, COC possessing high norbornene contents showed significantly less transparency at wavelengths below 475 nm following activation, making optical detection in this region difficult. Our data showed distinct physiochemical differences in activated COC that was dependent upon the ethylene/norbornene content of the thermoplastic and thus, careful selection of the particular COC grade must be considered for micro- and nanofluidics.

  6. Systematic study on the discharge product of Pt-based lithium oxygen batteries

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Wu, Feng; Xing, Yi; Bi, Xuanxuan

    Lithium oxygen batteries have attracted much attention due to the high theoretical energy density. However, they suffer a large overpotential during oxygen evolution process and thus catalysts play a vital role in the reaction. Here, we systematically explored the influence of Pt-based nanoparticle catalysts on the discharge product Li 2O 2. Because of the superior electrical conductivity and the strong binding with oxygen, Pt-based nanoparticles serve as active sites which are favorable for the growth of toroidal Li 2O 2. We also found that the content and composition of Pt-based nanoparticle catalysts exert a significant influence on the electrochemical performancemore » of lithium oxygen batteries. The discharge products are composed of crystalline Li 2O 2 and oxygen-rich LiO 2 characterized by high-energy X-ray diffraction and Raman. Atomic force microscopy further provides detailed information of the particle size and surface roughness. The loading of Pt catalysts determines the phase and size of Li 2O 2 on the discharged electrode surface. This study will be beneficial for the optimization of Pt-based catalysts used in non-aqueous lithium oxygen batteries.« less

  7. Systematic study on the discharge product of Pt-based lithium oxygen batteries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wu, Feng; Xing, Yi; Bi, Xuanxuan; Yuan, Yifei; Wang, Hsien-Hau; Shahbazian-Yassar, Reza; Li, Li; Chen, Renjie; Lu, Jun; Amine, Khalil

    2016-11-01

    Lithium oxygen batteries have attracted much attention due to the high theoretical energy density. However, they suffer a large overpotential during oxygen evolution process and thus catalysts play a vital role in the reaction. Here, we systematically explored the influence of Pt-based nanoparticle catalysts on the discharge product Li2O2. Because of the superior electrical conductivity and the strong binding with oxygen, Pt-based nanoparticles serve as active sites which are favorable for the growth of toroidal Li2O2. We also found that the content and composition of Pt-based nanoparticle catalysts exert a significant influence on the electrochemical performance of lithium oxygen batteries. The discharge products are composed of crystalline Li2O2 and oxygen-rich LiO2 characterized by high-energy X-ray diffraction and Raman. Atomic force microscopy further provides detailed information of the particle size and surface roughness. The loading of Pt catalysts determines the phase and size of Li2O2 on the discharged electrode surface. This study will be beneficial for the optimization of Pt-based catalysts used in non-aqueous lithium oxygen batteries.

  8. Effect of tea polyphenols on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activity of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) fruit during cold storage.

    PubMed

    Chen, Wenrong; Zhang, Zhenzhen; Shen, Yanwen; Duan, Xuewu; Jiang, Yuemin

    2014-10-20

    To understand the potential of application of tea polyphenols to the shelf life extension and quality maintenance of litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) fruit, the fruits were dipped into a solution of 1% tea phenols for 5 min before cold storage at 4 °C. Changes in browning index, contents of anthocyanins and phenolic compounds, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities, O2.- production rate and H2O2 content, levels of relative leakage rate and lipid peroxidation, and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity were measured after 0, 10, 20 and 30 days of cold storage. The results showed that application of tea polyphenols markedly delayed pericarp browning, alleviated the decreases in contents of total soluble solids (TSS) and ascorbic acid, and maintained relatively high levels of total phenolics and anthocyanins of litchi fruit after 30 days of cold storage. Meanwhile, the treatment reduced the increases in relative leakage rate and lipid peroxidation content, delayed the increases in both O2.- production rate and H2O2 contents, and increased SOD activity but reduced POD activity throughout this storage period. These data indicated that the delayed pericarp browning of litchi fruit by the treatment with tea polyphenols could be due to enhanced antioxidant capability, reduced accumulations of reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxidation, and improved membrane integrity.

  9. Antiproliferative activity in tumor cell lines, antioxidant capacity and total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents of Myrciaria floribunda.

    PubMed

    Tietbohl, Luis A C; Oliveira, Adriana P; Esteves, Ricardo S; Albuquerque, Ricardo D D G; Folly, Diogo; Machado, Francisco P; Corrêa, Arthur L; Santos, Marcelo G; Ruiz, Ana L G; Rocha, Leandro

    2017-01-01

    Myrciaria floribunda (H. West ex Willd.) O. Berg, Myrtaceae, is a native plant species of the Atlantic Rain Forest, from north to south of Brazil. The lyophilized ethyl acetate extract from the leaves of M. floribunda was investigated for its antiproliferative activity in tumor cell lines, antioxidant capacity and its total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents. Antiproliferative activity was tested in vitro against seven human cancer cells and against immortalized human skin keratinocytes line (HaCat, no cancer cell). Antioxidant activity was determined using 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and oxygen radical absorbing capacity (ORAC) assays and total phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents were determined by spectrophotometric techniques. Ethyl acetate extract of M. floribunda exhibited antiproliferative activity against cancer cell lines with total growth inhibition (TGI) between 69.70 and 172.10 µg/mL. For HaCat cell, TGI value was 213.60 µg/mL. M. floribunda showed a strong antioxidant potential: EC50 of 45.89±0.42 µg/mL and 0.55±0.05 mmol TE/g for DPPH and ORAC, respectively. Total phenolic content was 0.23±0.013g gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g extract and exhibited 13.10±1.60% of tannins content. The content of flavonoid was 24.08±0.44% expressed as rutin equivalents. These results provide a direction for further researches about the antitumoral potential of M. floribunda.

  10. Iron-doped nickel oxide nanocrystals as highly efficient electrocatalysts for alkaline water splitting.

    PubMed

    Fominykh, Ksenia; Chernev, Petko; Zaharieva, Ivelina; Sicklinger, Johannes; Stefanic, Goran; Döblinger, Markus; Müller, Alexander; Pokharel, Aneil; Böcklein, Sebastian; Scheu, Christina; Bein, Thomas; Fattakhova-Rohlfing, Dina

    2015-05-26

    Efficient electrochemical water splitting to hydrogen and oxygen is considered a promising technology to overcome our dependency on fossil fuels. Searching for novel catalytic materials for electrochemical oxygen generation is essential for improving the total efficiency of water splitting processes. We report the synthesis, structural characterization, and electrochemical performance in the oxygen evolution reaction of Fe-doped NiO nanocrystals. The facile solvothermal synthesis in tert-butanol leads to the formation of ultrasmall crystalline and highly dispersible FexNi1-xO nanoparticles with dopant concentrations of up to 20%. The increase in Fe content is accompanied by a decrease in particle size, resulting in nonagglomerated nanocrystals of 1.5-3.8 nm in size. The Fe content and composition of the nanoparticles are determined by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy measurements, while Mössbauer and extended X-ray absorption fine structure analyses reveal a substitutional incorporation of Fe(III) into the NiO rock salt structure. The excellent dispersibility of the nanoparticles in ethanol allows for the preparation of homogeneous ca. 8 nm thin films with a smooth surface on various substrates. The turnover frequencies (TOF) of these films could be precisely calculated using a quartz crystal microbalance. Fe0.1Ni0.9O was found to have the highest electrocatalytic water oxidation activity in basic media with a TOF of 1.9 s(-1) at the overpotential of 300 mV. The current density of 10 mA cm(-2) is reached at an overpotential of 297 mV with a Tafel slope of 37 mV dec(-1). The extremely high catalytic activity, facile preparation, and low cost of the single crystalline FexNi1-xO nanoparticles make them very promising catalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction.

  11. Heavily Graphitic-Nitrogen Self-doped High-porosity Carbon for the Electrocatalysis of Oxygen Reduction Reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Feng, Tong; Liao, Wenli; Li, Zhongbin; Sun, Lingtao; Shi, Dongping; Guo, Chaozhong; Huang, Yu; Wang, Yi; Cheng, Jing; Li, Yanrong; Diao, Qizhi

    2017-11-01

    Large-scale production of active and stable porous carbon catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) from protein-rich biomass became a hot topic in fuel cell technology. Here, we report a facile strategy for synthesis of nitrogen-doped porous nanocarbons by means of a simple two-step pyrolysis process combined with the activation of zinc chloride and acid-treatment process, in which kidney bean via low-temperature carbonization was preferentially adopted as the only carbon-nitrogen sources. The results show that this carbon material exhibits excellent ORR electrocatalytic activity, and higher durability and methanol-tolerant property compared to the state-of-the-art Pt/C catalyst for the ORR, which can be mainly attributed to high graphitic-nitrogen content, high specific surface area, and porous characteristics. Our results can encourage the synthesis of high-performance carbon-based ORR electrocatalysts derived from widely-existed natural biomass.

  12. GC and GC/MS Analysis of Essential Oil Composition of the Endemic Soqotraen Leucas virgata Balf.f. and Its Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities

    PubMed Central

    Mothana, Ramzi A.; Al-Said, Mansour S.; Al-Yahya, Mohammed A.; Al-Rehaily, Adnan J.; Khaled, Jamal M.

    2013-01-01

    Leucas virgata Balf.f. (Lamiaceae) was collected from the Island Soqotra (Yemen) and its essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of the oil was investigated by GC and GC-MS. Moreover, the essential oil was evaluated for its antimicrobial activity against two Gram-positive bacteria, two Gram-negative bacteria, and one yeast species by using broth micro-dilution assay for minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and antioxidant activity by measuring the scavenging activity of the DPPH radical. The investigation led to the identification of 43 constituents, representing 93.9% of the total oil. The essential oil of L. virgata was characterized by a high content of oxygenated monoterpenes (50.8%). Camphor (20.5%) exo-fenchol (3.4%), fenchon (5.4%), and borneol (3.1%) were identified as the main components. Oxygenated sesquiterpenes were found as the second major group of compounds (21.0%). β-Eudesmol (6.1%) and caryophyllene oxide (5.1%) were the major compounds among oxygenated sesquiterpenes. The results of the antimicrobial assay showed that the oil exhibited a great antibacterial activity against the tested S. aureus, B. subtilis, and E. coli. No activity was found against P. aeruginosa and C. albicans. Moreover, the DPPH-radical scavenging assay exhibited only a moderate antioxidant activity (31%) for the oil at the highest concentration tested (1 mg/mL). PMID:24284402

  13. Oxygen dependency of germinating Brassica seeds

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Park, Myoung Ryoul; Hasenstein, Karl H.

    2016-02-01

    Establishing plants in space, Moon or Mars requires adaptation to altered conditions, including reduced pressure and composition of atmospheres. To determine the oxygen requirements for seed germination, we imbibed Brassica rapa seeds under varying oxygen concentrations and profiled the transcription patterns of genes related to early metabolism such as starch degradation, glycolysis, and fermentation. We also analyzed the activity of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), and measured starch degradation. Partial oxygen pressure (pO2) greater than 10% resulted in normal germination (i.e., protrusion of radicle about 18 hours after imbibition) but lower pO2 delayed and reduced germination. Imbibition in an oxygen-free atmosphere for three days resulted in no germination but subsequent transfer to air initiated germination in 75% of the seeds and the root growth rate was transiently greater than in roots germinated under ambient pO2. In hypoxic seeds soluble sugars degraded faster but the content of starch after 24 h was higher than at ambient oxygen. Transcription of genes related to starch degradation, α-amylase (AMY) and Sucrose Synthase (SUS), was higher under ambient O2 than under hypoxia. Glycolysis and fermentation pathway-related genes, glucose phosphate isomerase (GPI), 6-phosphofructokinase (PFK), fructose 1,6-bisphosphate aldolase (ALD), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC), LDH, and ADH, were induced by low pO2. The activity of LDH and ADH was the highest in anoxic seeds. Germination under low O2 conditions initiated ethanolic fermentation. Therefore, sufficient oxygen availability is important for germination before photosynthesis provides necessary oxygen and the determination of an oxygen carrying capacity is important for uniform growth in space conditions.

  14. Citral exerts its antifungal activity against Penicillium digitatum by affecting the mitochondrial morphology and function.

    PubMed

    Zheng, Shiju; Jing, Guoxing; Wang, Xiao; Ouyang, Qiuli; Jia, Lei; Tao, Nengguo

    2015-07-01

    This work investigated the effect of citral on the mitochondrial morphology and function of Penicillium digitatum. Citral at concentrations of 2.0 or 4.0 μL/mL strongly damaged mitochondria of test pathogen by causing the loss of matrix and increase of irregular mitochondria. The deformation extent of the mitochondria of P. digitatum enhanced with increasing concentrations of citral, as evidenced by a decrease in intracellular ATP content and an increase in extracellular ATP content of P. digitatum cells. Oxygen consumption showed that citral resulted in an inhibition in the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) pathway of P. digitatum cells, induced a decrease in activities of citrate synthetase, isocitrate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, succinodehydrogenase and the content of citric acid, while enhancing the activity of malic dehydrogenase in P. digitatum cells. Our present results indicated that citral could damage the mitochondrial membrane permeability and disrupt the TCA pathway of P. digitatum. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Neuroglobin Overexpression Inhibits AMPK Signaling and Promotes Cell Anabolism.

    PubMed

    Cai, Bin; Li, Wenjun; Mao, XiaoOu; Winters, Ali; Ryou, Myoung-Gwi; Liu, Ran; Greenberg, David A; Wang, Ning; Jin, Kunlin; Yang, Shao-Hua

    2016-03-01

    Neuroglobin (Ngb) is a recently discovered globin with preferential localization to neurons. Growing evidence indicates that Ngb has distinct physiological functions separate from the oxygen storage and transport roles of other globins, such as hemoglobin and myoglobin. We found increased ATP production and decreased glycolysis in Ngb-overexpressing immortalized murine hippocampal cell line (HT-22), in parallel with inhibition of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling and activation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). In addition, lipid and glycogen content was increased in Ngb-overexpressing HT-22 cells. AMPK signaling was also inhibited in the brain and heart from Ngb-overexpressing transgenic mice. Although Ngb overexpression did not change glycogen content in whole brain, glycogen synthase was activated in cortical neurons of Ngb-overexpressing mouse brain and Ngb overexpression primary neurons. Moreover, lipid and glycogen content was increased in hearts derived from Ngb-overexpressing mice. These findings suggest that Ngb functions as a metabolic regulator and enhances cellular anabolism through the inhibition of AMPK signaling.

  16. Origin of the improved photocatalytic activity of Cu incorporated TiO2 for hydrogen generation from water

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hu, Qianqian; Huang, Jiquan; Li, Guojing; Jiang, Yabin; Lan, Hai; Guo, Wang; Cao, Yongge

    2016-09-01

    Cu incorporated TiO2 has been regarded as a low-cost photocatalyst with excellent photocatalytic performance for water splitting. Here we try to exploit the origin of its high reactivity by fabricating a series of Cu incorporated TiO2 films with the same Cu content under different atmosphere. Based on the comprehensive structure and surface characterizations, it is found that CuO is unstable and will be reduced to Cu2O or even to metallic Cu under light irradiation during the photocatalytic reaction, and Cu2O is an efficient co-catalyst that promotes the separation of photogenerated carriers while metallic Cu can further boost the photocatalytic activity. Besides, it is also noticed that the chemisorbed oxygen on the particle surface blocks the water splitting. By depositing TiO2 films under oxygen rich condition, oxygen vacancy is decreased greatly, which facilitates the removal of chemisorbed oxygen and the formation of metallic Cu during photocatalytic reaction, resulting in an ultra-high H2 evolution rate of 2.80 μmol cm-2 h-1, which is about 55 times higher than that of pure TiO2.

  17. Evaluation of Garlic Cultivars for Polyphenolic Content and Antioxidant Properties

    PubMed Central

    Cheng, Siqiong; Li, Panpan; Du, Junna; Chang, Yanxia; Meng, Huanwen

    2013-01-01

    Two phenolic compound parameters (total phenolic and flavonoid contents) and 5 antioxidant parameters (DPPH [2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl] radical scavenging activity, HRSC (hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity), FRAP (ferric ion reducing antioxidant power), CUPRAC (cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity), and MCA (metal chelating activity) were measured in bulbs and bolts of 43 garlic cultivars. The bulbs of cultivar ‘74-x’ had the highest phenolic content (total phenolic, flavonoids) and the strongest antioxidant capacity (DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC), followed by bulbs of cultivar ‘Hanzhong purple’; the bulbs of cultivar ‘Gailiang’ had the lowest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (FRAP, CUPRAC, MCA). The bolts of ‘Hanzhong purple’ also had higher phenolic content. Principal components analysis (PCA) separated the cultivars into 3 groups according to phenolic and flavonoid contents and strength of antioxidant activity. The first group had higher HRSC, FRAP, and flavonoid content; the second group had higher total phenolic content and MCA; some cultivars in the third group had higher HRSC and FRAP. All 8 test garlic bulb extracts successfully prevented Human Vascular Endothelial Cell death and significantly prevented reactive-oxygen species (ROS) formation in oxidative stress model, in which cultivar ‘74-x’ had highest protection capability, following by cultivar ‘Hanzhong purple’, and the bulbs of cultivar ‘No. 105 from Korea’ had the lower protection capability against cell death and ROS formation. The protection capability in vivo of these garlic cultivars was consistent with their phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. PMID:24232741

  18. Fundamental understanding of distracted oxygen delignification efficiency by dissolved lignin during biorefinery process of eucalyptus.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Huifang; Li, Jing; Zhang, Xuejin

    2018-06-01

    In this work, a fundamental understanding of oxygen delignification distracted by dissolved lignin was investigated. In the new biorefinery model of shortening kraft pulping integrated with extended oxygen delignification process, increasing content of residual lignin in the original pulp could result in enhanced delignification efficiency, higher pulp viscosity and less carbonyl groups. However, the invalid oxygen consumption by dissolved lignin could be increased with the increase of process temperature and alkali dosage. The normalized ultraviolet absorbance (divided by absorbance at 280 nm) also showed that the content of chromophoric group in dissolved lignin decreased with oxygen delignification proceeded, both of which indicated that dissolved lignin could enhance the invalid oxygen consumption. Therefore, a conclusion that replacement of the liquor at the initial phase of oxygen delignification process would balance the enhancement of delignification efficiency and invalid oxygen consumption was achieved. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. On-line monitoring of oxygen as a method to qualify the oxygen consumption rate of wines.

    PubMed

    Nevares, Ignacio; Martínez-Martínez, Víctor; Martínez-Gil, Ana; Martín, Roberto; Laurie, V Felipe; Del Álamo-Sanza, María

    2017-08-15

    Measuring the oxygen content during winemaking and bottle storage has become increasingly popular due to its impact on the sensory quality and longevity of wines. Nevertheless, only a few attempts to describe the kinetics of oxygen consumption based on the chemical composition of wines have been published. Therefore, this study proposes firstly a new fitting approach describing oxygen consuming kinetics and secondly the use of an Artificial Neural Network approach to describe and compare the oxygen avidity of wines according to their basic chemical composition (i.e. the content of ethanol, titratable acidity, total sulfur dioxide, total phenolics, iron and copper). The results showed no significant differences in the oxygen consumption rate between white and red wines, and allowed the sorting of the wines studied according to their oxygen consumption rate. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  20. Sulfide intrusion in the tropical seagrasses Thalassia testudinum and Syringodium filiforme

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Holmer, Marianne; Pedersen, Ole; Krause-Jensen, Dorte; Olesen, Birgit; Hedegård Petersen, Malene; Schopmeyer, Stephanie; Koch, Marguerite; Lomstein, Bente Aa.; Jensen, Henning S.

    2009-11-01

    Sulfur and oxygen dynamics in the seagrasses Thalassia testudinum and Syringodium filiforme and their sediments were studied in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) in order to explore sulfide intrusion into tropical seagrasses. Four study sites were selected based on the iron concentration in sediments and on proximity to anthropogenic nutrient sources. Meadow characteristics (shoot density, above- and below-ground biomass, nutrient content) were sampled along with sediment biogeochemistry. Sulfide intrusion was high in T. testudinum, as up to 96% of total sulfur in the plant was derived from sediment-derived sulfides. The sulfide intrusion was negatively correlated to the turnover of sulfides in the sediments regulated by both plant parameters and sediment sulfur pools. Sediment iron content played an indirect role by affecting sulfide turnover rates. Leaf production was negatively correlated with sulfide intrusion suggesting that active growth reduced sulfide intrusion. Sulfide intrusion was lower in S. filiforme (up to 44%) compared to T. testudinum consistent with a higher internal nighttime oxygen concentrations found for S. filiforme. When S. filiforme can take advantage of its ability to maintain high internal oxygen concentrations, as was the case on the USVI, it could increase its success in colonizing unvegetated disturbed sediments with potentially high sulfide concentrations.

  1. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Merkulov, O.V., E-mail: merkulov@ihim.uran.ru; Samigullin, R.R.; Markov, A.A.

    The electrical conductivity of SrFe{sub 1–x}Sn{sub x}O{sub 3–δ} (x=0.05, 0.10, 017) was measured by a four-probe dc technique in the partial oxygen pressure range of 10{sup –18}–0.5 atm at temperatures between 800 °Ð ÐŽ and 950 °Ð ÐŽ. The oxygen content in these oxides was measured under the same ambient conditions by means of coulometric titration. The thermodynamic analysis of oxygen nonstoichiometry data was carried out to determine the equilibrium constants for defect-formation reactions and to calculate the concentrations of ion and electron charge carriers. The partial contributions of oxygen ions, electrons and holes to charge transport were assessed, and the mobilitymore » of respective carriers was evaluated by an integral examination of the electrical conductivity and oxygen nonstoichiometry data. It has been found that the mobility of holes in SrFe{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x}O{sub 3−δ} varies in the range of ~0.005–0.04 cm{sup 2} V{sup −1} s{sup −1}, linearly increasing with the oxygen content and decreasing with increased tin concentration. The mobility of electron carriers was shown to be independent of the oxygen content. The average migration energy of an electron was estimated to be ~0.45 eV, with that of a hole being ~0.3 eV. - Highlights: • The conductivity and oxygen nonstoichiometry in SrFe{sub 1−x}Sn{sub x}O{sub 3−δ} were measured. • Tin substitution was found to affect insignificantly defect formation reactions. • The hole mobility was found to increase linearly with the oxygen content. • The hole mobility was found to be much higher than the electron mobility.« less

  2. Phytoremediation potential of water caltrop (Trapa natans L.) using municipal wastewater of the activated sludge process-based municipal wastewater treatment plant.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Vinod; Chopra, A K

    2018-01-01

    Phytoremediation experiments were carried out to assess the phytoremediation potential of water caltrop (Trapa natans L.) using municipal wastewater collected from the activated sludge process- (ASP) based municipal wastewater treatment plant. The results revealed that T. natans significantly (P ≤ .05/P ≤ .01/P ≤ .001) reduced the contents of total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD 5 ), chemical oxygen demand, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, phosphate ([Formula: see text]), sodium (Na + ), potassium (K + ), calcium (Ca 2+ ), magnesium (Mg 2+ ), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), standard plate count, and most probable number of the municipal wastewater after phytoremediation experiments. The maximum removal of these parameters was obtained at 60 days of the phytoremediation experiments, but the removal rate of these parameters was gradually increased from 15 to 45 days and it was slightly decreased at 60 days. Most contents of Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn were translocated in the leaves of T. natans, whereas most contents of Cr and Pb were accumulated in the root of T. natans after phytoremediation experiments. The contents of different biochemical components were recorded in the order of total sugar > crude protein > total ash > crude fiber > total fat in T. natans after phytoremediation of municipal wastewater. Therefore, T. natans was found to be effective for the removal of different parameters of municipal wastewater and can be used effectively to reduce the pollution load of municipal wastewater drained from the ASP-based treatment plants.

  3. What component of coal causes coal workers' pneumoconiosis?

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    McCunney, R.J.; Morfeld, P.; Payne, S.

    2009-04-15

    The objective was to evaluate the component of coal responsible for coal workers' pneumoconiosis (CWP). A literature search of PubMED was conducted to address studies that have evaluated the risk of CWP based on the components of coal. The risk of CWP (CWP) depends on the concentration and duration of exposure to coal dust. Epidemiology studies have shown inverse links between CWP and quartz content. Coal from the USA and Germany has demonstrated links between iron content and CWP; these same studies indicate virtually no role for quartz. In vitro studies indicate strong mechanistic links between iron content in coalmore » and reactive oxygen species, which play a major role in the inflammatory response associated with CWP. The active agent within coal appears to be iron, not quartz. By identifying components of coal-before mining activities, the risk of developing CWP may be reduced.« less

  4. Variation in nutritional quality and chemical composition of fresh strawberry fruit: combined effect of cultivar and storage.

    PubMed

    Dragišić Maksimović, Jelena; Poledica, Milena; Mutavdžić, Dragosav; Mojović, Miloš; Radivojević, Dragan; Milivojević, Jasminka

    2015-03-01

    Bioclimatic air ionisation system (BI) works by neutralising air pollutants and microorganisms by means of oxidation with "activated oxygen". We investigated the effects of storage on changes in weight loss, chemical and sensory fruit properties in eight cultivars of strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.). All cultivars were evaluated for their standard parameters of quality (soluble solids content, total acidity, vitamin C content, total antioxidant activity - TAC, total phenolic and anthocyanins content) at different store conditions: fresh fruits-control, cold stored (at 4 °C) fruits without controlled atmospheres and cold stored (at 4 °C) fruits in BI. The present study outlines that anthocyanins of the strawberries stored in BI were subjected to significant degradation. These strawberries have prolonged shelf-life accompanied by weight loss reduction, TAC increment, and sensory properties improvement in tested cultivars, retaining other nutritional fruit qualities.

  5. Comparative polyphenolic content and antioxidant activities of Genista tinctoria L. and Genistella sagittalis (L.) Gams (Fabaceae).

    PubMed

    Hanganu, Daniela; Olah, Neli Kinga; Benedec, Daniela; Mocan, Andrei; Crisan, Gianina; Vlase, Laurian; Popica, Iulia; Oniga, Ilioara

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was focused on the polyphenolic composition and antioxidant capacity of Genista tinctoria L. and Genistella sagittalis (L.) Gams. A qualitative and quantitative characterization of the main phenolic compounds from the extracts were carried out using a HPLC-MS method. The total polyphenolic and flavonoid content was spectrophotometrically determined. The antioxidant activity towards various radicals generated in different systems was evaluated usingDPPH bleaching method, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay (TEAC) and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and all indicated that G. tinctoria extract was more antioxidant than G. sagittalis extract.That was in good agreement with the total polyphenolic and flavonoidic content.Chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, isoquercitrin and apigenin were identified in bothspecies. Caffeic acid, ferulic acid, hyperoside, rutin, quercitrin and luteolin were found only in G. tinctoria, while quercetin was determined in G. sagittalis.

  6. Seasonal and interannual variability of dissolved oxygen around the Balearic Islands from hydrographic data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balbín, R.; López-Jurado, J. L.; Aparicio-González, A.; Serra, M.

    2014-10-01

    Oceanographic data obtained between 2001 and 2011 by the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO, Spain) have been used to characterise the spatial distribution and the temporal variability of the dissolved oxygen around the Balearic Islands (Mediterranean Sea). The study area includes most of the Western Mediterranean Sea, from the Alboran Sea to Cape Creus, at the border between France and Spain. Dissolved oxygen (DO) at the water surface is found to be in a state of equilibrium exchange with the atmosphere. In the spring and summer a subsurface oxygen supersaturation is observed due to the biological activity, above the subsurface fluorescence maximum. Minimum observed values of dissolved oxygen are related to the Levantine Intermediate Waters (LIW). An unusual minimum of dissolved oxygen concentrations was also recorded in the Alboran Sea Oxygen Minimum Zone. The Western Mediterranean Deep Waters (WMDW) and the Western Intermediate Waters (WIW) show higher values of dissolved oxygen than the Levantine Intermediate Waters due to their more recent formation. Using these dissolved oxygen concentrations it is possible to show that the Western Intermediate Waters move southwards across the Ibiza Channel and the deep water circulates around the Balearic Islands. It has also been possible to characterise the seasonal evolution of the different water masses and their dissolved oxygen content in a station in the Algerian sub-basin.

  7. Modern and ancient geochemical constraints on Proterozoic atmosphere-ocean redox evolution

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hardisty, D. S.; Horner, T. J.; Wankel, S. D.; Lu, Z.; Lyons, T.; Nielsen, S.

    2017-12-01

    A detailed understanding of the spatiotemporal oxygenation of Earth's atmosphere-ocean system through the Precambrian has important implications for the environments capable of sustaining early eukaryotic life and the evolving oxidant budget of subducted sediments. Proxy records suggest an anoxic Fe-rich deep ocean through much of the Precambrian and atmospheric and surface-ocean oxygenation that started in earnest at the Paleoproterozoic Great Oxidation Event (GOE). The marine photic zone represented the initial site of oxygen production and accumulation via cyanobacteria, yet our understanding of surface-ocean oxygen contents and the extent and timing of oxygen propagation and exchange between the atmosphere and deeper ocean are limited. Here, we present an updated perspective of the constraints on atmospheric, surface-ocean, and deep-ocean oxygen contents starting at the GOE. Our research uses the iodine content of Proterozoic carbonates as a tracer of dissolved iodate in the shallow ocean, a redox-sensitive species quantitatively reduced in modern oxygen minimum zones. We supplement our understanding of the ancient record with novel experiments examining the rates of iodate production from oxygenated marine environments based on seawater incubations. Combining new data from iodine with published shallow marine (Ce anomaly, N isotopes) and atmospheric redox proxies, we provide an integrated view of the vertical redox structure of the atmosphere and ocean across the Proterozoic.

  8. Hypothesized link between Neoproterozoic greening of the land surface and the establishment of an oxygen-rich atmosphere

    PubMed Central

    Kump, Lee R.

    2014-01-01

    Considerable geological, geochemical, paleontological, and isotopic evidence exists to support the hypothesis that the atmospheric oxygen level rose from an Archean baseline of essentially zero to modern values in two steps roughly 2.3 billion and 0.8–0.6 billion years ago (Ga). The first step in oxygen content, the Great Oxidation Event, was likely a threshold response to diminishing reductant input from Earth’s interior. Here I provide an alternative to previous suggestions that the second step was the result of the establishment of the first terrestrial fungal–lichen ecosystems. The consumption of oxygen by aerobes respiring this new source of organic matter in soils would have necessitated an increase in the atmospheric oxygen content to compensate for the reduced delivery of oxygen to the weathering environment below the organic-rich upper soil layer. Support for this hypothesis comes from the observed spread toward more negative carbon isotope compositions in Neoproterozoic (1.0–0.542 Ga) and younger limestones altered under the influence of ground waters, and the positive correlation between the carbon isotope composition and oxygen content of modern ground waters in contact with limestones. Thus, the greening of the planet’s land surfaces forced the atmospheric oxygen level to a new, higher equilibrium state. PMID:25225378

  9. Experimental Constraints on the Cr Content, Oxygen Fugacity, and Petrogenesis of EETA79001 Lithology A

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Herd, C. D. K.; Jones, J. H.; Papike, J. J.

    2000-01-01

    Experiments involving the composition of the groundmass of EETA79001 Lithology A constrain the Cr content of the melt and the oxygen fugacity, and suggest that overgrowth of olivine and pyroxene from the groundmass onto xenocrysts has occurred.

  10. The Galloyl Catechins Contributing to Main Antioxidant Capacity of Tea Made from Camellia sinensis in China

    PubMed Central

    Zhao, Chunjian; Li, Chunying; Liu, Shuaihua; Yang, Lei

    2014-01-01

    Total polyphenol content, catechins content, and antioxidant capacities of green, dark, oolong, and black teas made from Camellia sinensis in China were evaluated. The total polyphenol content of 20 samples of tea was in the range of 7.82–32.36%. Total catechins content was in the range of 4.34–24.27%. The antioxidant capacity of tea extract was determined by the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) test and the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging test. Total polyphenol content, catechins content, and antioxidant capacity decreased in the following order: green > oolong > black > dark tea. A positive correlation existed between the antioxidant capacity and total polyphenol content or catechins content (R 2 = 0.67–0.87). The antioxidant capacities of five major catechins (epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epicatechin gallate (ECG), epicatechin, epigallocatechin, and catechin) were determined by online HPLC DPPH radical-scavenging; the antioxidant activity of tea was mainly attributed to the esterified catechins (EGCG or ECG). PMID:25243234

  11. Hydrogen halide cleaning of powder metallurgy nickel-20 chromium-3 thoria.

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Herbell, T. P.

    1972-01-01

    The Cr2O3 content of powder metallurgy nickel-20 chromium-3 thoria was reduced with atmospheres consisting of hydrogen plus hydrogen chloride (HCl) or hydrogen bromide (HBr). The nonthoria oxygen content or 'oxygen excess' was reduced from an initial amount of greater than 50,000 ppm to less than 100 ppm. Low temperatures were effective, but lowest oxygen levels were achieved with the highest cleaning temperature of 1200 C.

  12. DPPH and oxygen free radicals as pro-oxidant of biomolecules.

    PubMed

    Letelier, María Eugenia; Molina-Berríos, Alfredo; Cortés-Troncoso, Juan; Jara-Sandoval, José; Holst, Marianne; Palma, Karina; Montoya, Margarita; Miranda, Dante; González-Lira, Víctor

    2008-03-01

    Numerous investigations exist about the alterations that oxygen free radicals can provoke on biomolecules; these modifications can be prevented and/or reversed by different antioxidants agents. On the other hand, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH), a stable nitrogen synthetic radical, is used to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of medicinal herbal products; however, the structural changes that this radical provoke on the herbal active principles are not clear yet. In this work, we compared the redox reactivity of oxygen free radicals and DPPH radical on phospholipids and protein thiol groups present in rat liver microsomes. Cu2+/ascorbate was used as generator system of oxygen free radical and as antioxidant, an extract of Buddleja globosa's leaves. Cu2+/ascorbate provoked microsomal lipid peroxidation, microsomal thiols oxidation and oxygen consumption; all of these phenomena were inhibited by B. globosa extract. On the other hand, DPPH was bleached in different extension by the herbal extract and phosphatidyl choline; beside, DPPH decreased microsomal thiols content, but this phenomenon were not prevented by the herbal extract. Furthermore, DPPH did not induce oxygen consumption and neither modified the oxygen consumption induced by Cu2+/ascorbate. Distinct redox mechanisms may explain the differences between the reactivity of DPPH and oxygen free radicals on biomolecules, which is discussed.

  13. New trend of radiation application to polymer modification — irradiation in oxygen free atmosphere and at elevated temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seguchi, Tadao

    2000-03-01

    Polycarbosilane (PCS) fiber as a precursor for ceramic fiber of silicon carbide was cured by electron beam (EB) irradiation under oxygen free atmosphere. Oxygen content in the cured PCS fiber was scarce and the obtained silicon carbide (SiC) fiber with low oxygen content showed high heat resistance up to 1973 K and tensile strength of 3 GPa. Also, the EB cured PCS fiber with very low oxygen content could be converted to silicon nitride (Si 3N 4) fiber by the pyrolysis in NH 3 gas atmosphere, which was the new processing to produce Si 3N 4 fiber. The process of SiC fiber synthesis was developed to the commercial plant. The other application was the crosslinking of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE, which had been recognized to be a typical chain scission polymer, could be induced to crosslinking by irradiation at the molten state in oxygen free atmosphere. The physical properties such as crystallinity, mechanical properties, etc. changed much by crosslinking, and the radiation resistance was much improved.

  14. Analysis of structural transformation in wool fiber resulting from oxygen plasma treatment using vibrational spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barani, Hossein; Haji, Aminoddin

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of oxygen plasma procedure at different time treatments on wool fiber using the micro-Raman spectroscopy as a non-destructive vibrational spectroscopic technique and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The amide I and III regions, Csbnd C skeletal vibration region, and Ssbnd S and Csbnd S bonds vibration regions were analyzed with the Raman microscope. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscope analysis was employed to find out the effect of oxygen plasma treatment on the cysteic acid residues content of the wool fiber sample. The results indicated that the α-helix structure was the highest component content of wool fiber. Moreover, the protein secondary structure of wool fibers was transformed from α-helical arrangement to the β-pleated sheet configuration during the oxygen plasma treatment. Also, the disulphide bonds content in the treated wool fiber reduced because they were fractured and oxidized during oxygen plasma treatment. The oxygen plasma treated samples presented higher cysteic acid compared to the untreated wool samples due to produce more cleavage of disulfide linkages.

  15. Effect of gamma irradiation under various atmospheres of packaging on the microbial and physicochemical properties of turmeric powder

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Esmaeili, Saeideh; Barzegar, Mohsen; Sahari, Mohammad Ali; Berengi-Ardestani, Samira

    2018-07-01

    This study investigated the effect of gamma irradiation (0, 5, 10, and 15 kGy) under various atmospheres of packaging (air, N₂, and vacuum) on the microbial load and physicochemical properties of turmeric powder, including antioxidant activities, total phenolic content (TPC), color parameters, and curcuminoid content. The efficiency of irradiation in reducing microbial contamination in the samples was observed even at the lowest dose. By increasing the irradiation dose, the microbial load was not detectable. Irradiation in the presence of oxygen had synergistic effects on the extraction of curcuminoids and TPC, and increased the antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts: highest activity was observed at 15 kGy. Generally, gamma irradiation up to the dose of 10 kGy under air atmosphere not only ensured microbial safety and desirability of turmeric powder, but also improved the extraction yield of bioactive compounds and, consequently, antioxidant activities of the samples.

  16. Chemical State of Surface Oxygen on Carbon and Its Effects on the Capacity of the Carbon Anode in a Lithium-Ion Battery Investigated

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hung, Ching-Cheh

    2001-01-01

    In a lithium-ion battery, the lithium-storage capacity of the carbon anode is greatly affected by a surface layer formed during the first half cycle of lithium insertion and release into and out of the carbon anode. The formation of this solid-electrolyte interface, in turn, is affected by the chemistry of the carbon surface. A study at the NASA Glenn Research Center examined the cause-and-effect relations. Information obtained from this research could contribute in designing a high-capacity lithium-ion battery and, therefore, small, powerful spacecraft. In one test, three types of surfaces were examined: (1) a surface with low oxygen content (1.5 at.%) and a high concentration of active sites, (2) a surface with 4.5 at.% -OH or -OC type oxygen, and (3) a surface with 6.5 at.% O=C type oxygen. The samples were made from the same precursor and had similar bulk properties. They were tested under a constant current of 10 mA/g in half cells that used lithium metal as the counter electrode and 0.5 M lithium iodide in 50/50 (vol%) ethylene carbonate and dimethyl carbonate as the electrolyte. For the first cycle of the electrochemical test, the graph describes the voltage of the carbon anode versus the lithium metal as a function of the capacity (amount of lithium insertion or release). From these data, it can be observed that the surface with low oxygen and a high concentration of active sites could result in a high irreversible capacity. Such a high irreversible capacity could be prevented if the active sites were allowed to react with oxygen in air, producing -OH or -OC type oxygen. The O=C type oxygen, on the other hand, could greatly reduce the capacity of lithium intercalation and, therefore, needs to be avoided during battery fabrication.

  17. Reduction of methylviologen-mediated oxidative stress tolerance in antisense transgenic tobacco seedlings through restricted expression of StAPX.

    PubMed

    Sun, Wei-Hong; Wang, Yong; He, Hua-Gang; Li, Xue; Song, Wan; Du, Bin; Meng, Qing-Wei

    2013-07-01

    Ascorbate peroxidases are directly involved in reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging by reducing hydrogen peroxide to water. The tomato thylakoid-bound ascorbate peroxidase gene (StAPX) was introduced into tobacco. RNA gel blot analysis confirmed that StAPX in tomato leaves was induced by methylviologen-mediated oxidative stress. The sense transgenic seedlings exhibited higher tAPX activity than that of the wild type (WT) plants under oxidative stress conditions, while the antisense seedlings exhibited lower tAPX activity. Lower APX activities of antisense transgenic seedlings caused higher malondialdehyde contents and relative electrical conductivity. The sense transgenic seedlings with higher tAPX activity maintained higher chlorophyll content and showed the importance of tAPX in maintaining the optimal chloroplast development under methylviologen stress conditions, whereas the antisense lines maintained lower chlorophyll content than WT seedlings. Results indicated that the over-expression of StAPX enhanced tolerance to methylviologen-mediated oxidative stress in sense transgenic tobacco early seedlings, whereas the suppression of StAPX in antisense transgenic seedlings showed high sensitivity to oxidative stress.

  18. Identifying the Active Surfaces of Electrochemically Tuned LiCoO 2 for Oxygen Evolution Reaction

    DOE PAGES

    Lu, Zhiyi; Chen, Guangxu; Li, Yanbin; ...

    2017-04-18

    Identification of active sites for catalytic processes has both fundamental and technological implications for rational design of future catalysts. Herein, we study the active surfaces of layered lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) using the enhancement effect of electrochemical delithiation (De-LCO). Our theoretical results indicate that the most stable (0001) surface has a very large overpotential for OER independent of lithium content. In contrast, edge sites such as the nonpolar (1120) and polar (0112) surfaces are predicted to be highly active and dependent on (de)lithiation. The effect of lithium extraction from LCO on the surfaces andmore » their OER activities can be understood by the increase of Co 4+ sites relative to Co 3+ and by the shift of active oxygen 2p states. Experimentally, it is demonstrated that LCO nanosheets, which dominantly expose the (0001) surface show negligible OER enhancement upon delithiation. However, a noticeable increase in OER activity (~0.1 V in overpotential shift at 10 mA cm –2) is observed for the LCO nanoparticles, where the basal plane is greatly diminished to expose the edge sites, consistent with the theoretical simulations. In addition, we find that the OER activity of De-LCO nanosheets can be improved if we adopt an acid etching method on LCO to create more active edge sites, which in turn provides a strong evidence for the theoretical indication.« less

  19. Estimate of oxygen consumption and intracellular zinc concentration of human spermatozoa in relation to motility.

    PubMed

    Henkel, Ralf R; Defosse, Kerstin; Koyro, Hans-Wilhelm; Weissmann, Norbert; Schill, Wolf-Bernhard

    2003-03-01

    To investigate the human sperm oxygen/energy consumption and zinc content in relation to motility. In washed spermatozoa from 67 ejaculates, the oxygen consumption was determined. Following calculation of the total oxygen consumed by the Ideal Gas Law, the energy consumption of spermatozoa was calculated. In addition, the zinc content of the sperm was determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The resulting data were correlated to the vitality and motility. The oxygen consumption averaged 0.24 micromol/10(6) sperm x 24h, 0.28 micromol/10(6) live sperm x 24h and 0.85 micromol/10(6) live motile sperm x 24h. Further calculations revealed that sperm motility was the most energy consuming process (164.31 mJ/10(6) motile spermatozoa x 24h), while the oxygen consumption of the total spermatozoa was 46.06 mJ/10(6) spermatozoa x 24h. The correlation of the oxygen/energy consumption and zinc content with motility showed significant negative correlations (r= -0.759; P<0.0001 and r=-0.441; P<0.0001, respectively). However, when correlating sperm energy consumption with the zinc content, a significant positive relation (r=0.323; P=0.01) was observed. Poorly motile sperm are actually wasting the available energy. Moreover, our data clearly support the "Geometric Clutch Model" of the axoneme function and demonstrate the importance of the outer dense fibers for the generation of sperm motility, especially progressive motility.

  20. Bacterial and chemical oxidation of pyritic mine tailings at low temperatures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Elberling, Bo; Schippers, Axel; Sand, Wolfgang

    2000-02-01

    Microbial and chemical sulfide oxidation activity and oxygen consumption was investigated in the active layer of pyritic mine tailings at Nanisivik Mine, located in a permafrost area on Baffin Island in northern Canada. Samples of tailings were collected up to a depth of 60 cm in mid-August 1998 at 4 sites, for which the metabolic activity of sulfur- and iron-oxidizing leaching bacteria besides the chemical pyrite oxidation activity were measured on 39 tailings samples and 7 samples from a natural pyritic site by calorimetry. The tailings of varying age and water content were deposited under alkaline conditions. In situ oxygen uptake rates were measured at the tailings surface every third day, prior to sampling. In addition, cell counts of iron(II), sulfur, and thiosulfate oxidizing, lithotrophic bacteria and chemoorganotrophic microorganisms were determined quantitatively by the most-probable-number technique or by agar-plating. Results show consistent pyrite oxidation rates based on in situ oxygen uptake rates, and laboratory heat output measurements. Litho- and organotrophic bacteria were found in the tailings. Calorimetric measurements revealed that the present bacterial activity is responsible for approximately one third of the ongoing oxidation. Although leaching bacteria have previously been found in the Arctic, this study is the first to prove the significance of bacterial activity in the overall pollution resulting from tailings deposited in the Arctic.

  1. Influence of Oxygen Content in Oriented LaCoO3-δ Thin Films: Probed by X-ray diffraction and Raman Spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mishra, D. K.; Ahlawat, Anju; Sathe, V. G.

    2011-07-01

    Nonstoichiometric oriented thin films of LaCoO3-δ of equal thickness and varying oxygen content has been deposited on STO (001) substrate by pulsed laser deposition. X-ray diffraction results show that all films are single phase and c-axis oriented in the (001) direction with in plane tensile strain. In these films strain reduces with increasing oxygen content and Raman study also support this result. Low temperature Raman study shows no change in spin state of Co3+ in temperature range from 300 K to down to 80 K.

  2. [The role of oxidative stress in pathogenesis of GBS].

    PubMed

    Dogonadze, S I; Ninua, N G; Gordeziani, M G; Kavlashvili, M S; Sanikidze, T V

    2006-11-01

    Axon degeneration accompanying its demielinization is a main course of neurological insufficiency typical for GBS. The mechanisms of axon degeneration, considered as the secondary result of serve inflammation are not established. We aimed to determine the role of oxidative metabolism in viral polyneuropathy pathogenesis. The activity of pro- and antioxidant systems of the body was studied by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) method. In blood and cerebrospinal fluid the intensive EPR signals of nitric oxide (NO), complexes of NO with nonhemic iron (HbNO), lypo- and superoxide radicals content noticeably increases, the signals of free Mn2+ and Fe2+ revealed, the activity of blood antioxidant enzymes, ceruloplasmin and katalasa increases (by 60%), superoxidedismitase's and glutation reductases activity decreases (by 20% and 70% correspondingly). It was considered, that inflammatory damage of nervous system induced by different infectious stimulus is initiated by activated immune cell proinflamatory agents (reactive oxygen and nitrogen species). Subsequently the oxidative stress, as result of accumulation of generators of reactive oxygen species, disordered intracellular metabolism products, contributes to axon demielinization and degeneration.

  3. Flavanoid-rich fraction from Sageretia theezans leaves scavenges reactive oxygen radical species and increases the resistance of low-density lipoprotein to oxidation

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    To explore their bioactive fractions, S. theezans leaves were extracted 2 with 60% acetone and then fractionated sequentially with hexane, ethyl acetate, and water. ROS (HOCl, ONOO-, and O2 deg -) scavenging activity, ORAC value and total phenolic content of each fraction were investigated. The ethy...

  4. Comparison of Minimally and More Invasive Methods of Determining Mixed Venous Oxygen Saturation.

    PubMed

    Smit, Marli; Levin, Andrew I; Coetzee, Johan F

    2016-04-01

    To investigate the accuracy of a minimally invasive, 2-step, lookup method for determining mixed venous oxygen saturation compared with conventional techniques. Single-center, prospective, nonrandomized, pilot study. Tertiary care hospital, university setting. Thirteen elective cardiac and vascular surgery patients. All participants received intra-arterial and pulmonary artery catheters. Minimally invasive oxygen consumption and cardiac output were measured using a metabolic module and lithium-calibrated arterial waveform analysis (LiDCO; LiDCO, London), respectively. For the minimally invasive method, Step 1 involved these minimally invasive measurements, and arterial oxygen content was entered into the Fick equation to calculate mixed venous oxygen content. Step 2 used an oxyhemoglobin curve spreadsheet to look up mixed venous oxygen saturation from the calculated mixed venous oxygen content. The conventional "invasive" technique used pulmonary artery intermittent thermodilution cardiac output, direct sampling of mixed venous and arterial blood, and the "reverse-Fick" method of calculating oxygen consumption. LiDCO overestimated thermodilution cardiac output by 26%. Pulmonary artery catheter-derived oxygen consumption underestimated metabolic module measurements by 27%. Mixed venous oxygen saturation differed between techniques; the calculated values underestimated the direct measurements by between 12% to 26.3%, this difference being statistically significant. The magnitude of the differences between the minimally invasive and invasive techniques was too great for the former to act as a surrogate of the latter and could adversely affect clinical decision making. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Evaluation of oxygen exposure levels and polyphenolic content of red wines using an electronic panel formed by an electronic nose and an electronic tongue.

    PubMed

    Rodriguez-Mendez, M L; Apetrei, C; Gay, M; Medina-Plaza, C; de Saja, J A; Vidal, S; Aagaard, O; Ugliano, M; Wirth, J; Cheynier, V

    2014-07-15

    An electronic panel formed by an electronic nose and an electronic tongue has been used to analyse red wines showing high and low phenolic contents, obtained by flash release and traditional soaking, respectively, and processed with or without micro-oxygenation. Four oxygen transfer rate conditions (0.8, 1.9, 8.0, and 11.9 μl oxygen/bottle/day) were ensured by using synthetic closures with controlled oxygen permeability and storage under controlled atmosphere. Twenty-five chemical parameters associated with the polyphenolic composition, the colour indices and the levels of oxygen were measured in triplicate and correlated with the signals registered (seven replicas) by means of the electronic nose and the electronic tongue using partial least squares regression analysis. The electronic nose and the electronic tongue showed particularly good correlations with those parameters associated with the oxygen levels and, in particular, with the influence of the porosity of the closure to oxygen exposure. In turn, the electronic tongue was particularly sensitive to redox species including oxygen and phenolic compounds. It has been demonstrated that a combined system formed from the electronic nose and the electronic tongue provides information about the chemical composition of both the gas and the liquid phase of red wines. This complementary information improves the capacity to predict values of oxygen-related parameters, phenolic content and colour parameters. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Impact of initial lipid content and oxygen supply on alcoholic fermentation in champagne-like musts.

    PubMed

    Ochando, Thomas; Mouret, Jean-Roch; Humbert-Goffard, Anne; Sablayrolles, Jean-Marie; Farines, Vincent

    2017-08-01

    Available nitrogen, lipids, or oxygen are nutrients with major impact on the kinetics of winemaking fermentation. Assimilable nitrogen is usually the growth-limiting nutrient which availability determines the fermentation rate and therefore the fermentation duration. In some particular cases, as in Champagne, grape musts have high available nitrogen content and low turbidity, i.e., below 50 Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU). In the case of low turbidity, the availability of lipids, particularly phytosterols, becomes limiting. In this situation, control of oxygenation, which is necessary for lipid synthesis by yeast, is particularly crucial during fermentation. To mimic and understand these situations, a synthetic medium simulating the average composition of a Champagne must was used. This medium contained phytosterol (mainly β-sitosterol) concentrations ranging from 0 to 8mg/L corresponding to turbidity between 10 and 90 NTU. Population reached during the stationary phase and the maximum fermentation rate are conditioned by the initial phytosterol concentration determining the amount of nitrogen consumption. An early loss of viability was observed when the lipid concentrations were very low. For example, the viability continuously decreased during the stationary phase to a final value of 50% for an initial phytosterol concentration of 1mg/L. In some fermentations, 10mg/L oxygen were added at the end of the growth phase to combine the effects of initial content of phytosterols in the musts and the de novo synthesis of ergosterol and unsaturated fatty acids induced by oxygen addition. Effect of oxygen supply on the fermentation kinetics was particularly significant for media with low phytosterol contents. For example, the maximum fermentation rate was increased by 1.4-fold and the fermentation time was 70h shorter with oxygen addition in the medium containing 2mg/L of phytosterols. As a consequence of the oxygen supply, for the media containing 3, 5 and 8mg/L of phytosterols, the assimilable nitrogen was completely exhausted and the fermentation kinetics, as well as the final populations and viabilities (greater than 90%), were identical for the 3 conditions. The impacts of the lipid content and additional oxygen on acetate, glycerol and succinate synthesis were also studied. The phytosterols decreased the acetate and increased the succinate synthesis, and oxygenation resulted in a decrease in succinate formation. This work highlights the similarities and differences between the effects of lipids and oxygen on fermentation kinetics and yeast metabolism. This research highlights the need for an optimal combined management of lipid content in the must via turbidity and oxygenation, particularly in nitrogen-rich musts. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Solubility of oxygen in liquid Fe at high pressure and consequences for the early differentiation of Earth and Mars

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rubie, D. C.; Gessmann, C. K.; Frost, D. J.

    2003-04-01

    Knowledge of the solubility of oxygen in liquid iron enables the partitioning of oxygen between metal and silicates and the oxidation state of residual silicates to be constrained during core formation in planetary bodies. We have determined oxygen solubility experimentally at 5--23 GPa, 2100--2700 K and oxygen fugacities 1--4 log units below the iron-wüstite buffer in samples of liquid Ni-Fe alloy contained in magnesiowüstite capsules using a multianvil apparatus. Results show that oxygen solubility increases with increasing temperature but decreases slightly with increasing pressure over the range of experimental conditions, at constant oxygen fugacity. Using an extrapolation of the results to higher pressures and temperatures, we have modeled the geochemical consequences of metal-silicate separation in magma oceans in order to explain the contrasting FeO contents of the mantles of Earth and Mars. We assume that both Earth and Mars accreted originally from material with a chondritic composition; because the initial oxidation state is uncertain, we vary this parameter by defining the initial oxygen content. Two metal-silicate fractionation models are considered: (1) Metal and silicate are allowed to equilibrate at fictive conditions that approximate the pressure and temperature at the base of a magma ocean. (2) The effect of settling Fe droplets in a magma ocean is determined using a simple polybaric metal-silicate fractionation model. We assume that the temperature at the base of a magma ocean is close to the peridotite liquidus. In the case of Earth, high temperatures in a magma ocean with a depth >1200 km would have resulted in significant quantities of oxygen dissolving in the liquid metal with the consequent extraction of FeO from the residual silicate. In contrast, on Mars, even if the magma ocean extended to the depth of the current core-mantle boundary, temperatures would not have been sufficiently high for oxygen solubility in liquid metal to be significant. The results show that Earth and Mars could have accreted from similar material, with an initial FeO content around 18 wt%. On Earth, oxygen was extracted from silicates by the segregating metal during core formation, leaving the mantle with its present FeO content of ˜8 wt%. On Mars, in contrast, the segregating metal extracted little or no oxygen and left the FeO content unaltered at ˜18 wt%. A consequence of this model is that oxygen should be an important light element in the Earth's core but not in the Martian core.

  8. [The evaluation of selected oxidative stress parameters in patients with hyperthyroidism].

    PubMed

    Andryskowski, Grzegorz; Owczarek, Tomasz

    2007-07-01

    Hyperthyroidism induces the acceleration of the basic metabolism and increases cellular oxygen utilization, consequently intensifies reactive oxygen species production and disturbs the oxidant-antioxidant balance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the selected oxidative stress parameters in patients with hyperthyroidism by analysis of the reactive oxygen species neutralizing enzymes activity--superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and catalase (CAT), the estimation of free radical processes intensity--concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), sulfhydryl groups (SH) in proteins and by quantification of the serum total antioxidant status (TAS). . Twenty-seven patients treated for hyperthyroidism and 12 healthy individuals were enrolled in the study. Enzyme activity (SOD, GSHPx, CAT), MDA and concentration of SH groups were analysed in erythrocytes, while TAS was measured in serum. Patients with hyperthyroidism compared with healthy subjects were characterized by a higher GSHPx activity in erythrocytes, lower serum TAS, the lower content of SH groups in proteins and the lower MDA concentration in erythrocytes. Our results suggest that hyperthyroidism increases oxidative stress and disturbs oxidant-antioxidant balance in the body. Thyreostatic treatment, if not leads to whole metabolic compensation, may only reduce oxidant-antioxidant disorders, however is not able to eliminate them entirely.

  9. Impact of hypoxia stress on the physiological responses of sea cucumber Apostichopus japonicus: respiration, digestion, immunity and oxidative damage

    PubMed Central

    Huo, Da; Ru, Xiaoshang; Zhang, Libin; Lin, Chenggang; Xin, Xiaoke

    2018-01-01

    Hypoxia is one of the most frequently occurring stressors confronted by industrial cultures of sea cucumber and can cause large economic losses and resource degradation. However, its responsive mechanisms are still lacking. In this paper, the physiological responses of Apostichopus japonicus to oxygen deficiency was illustrated, including induced oxidative response and immune defense and changed digestive enzymes activities. Significantly increased activities of alpha-amylase (AMS), acid phosphatase (ACP), lactate dehydrogenase, catalase, peroxidase, succinate dehydrogenase and higher content of malondialdehyde, and decreased activities of lipase and trypsin (TRY) were observed after hypoxia exposure (dissolved oxygen [DO] 2 mg/L). Expressions of key genes showed that AMS, peptidase, ACP, alkaline phosphatase, lysozyme, heat shock protein 70 and glutathione peroxidase were increased and TRY was decreased under hypoxia. With the decline of the DO level, the decreased tendency of oxygen consumption rates was different in varied weight groups. Moreover, respiratory trees were observed degraded under long-term hypoxia stress, thus leading a negative effect of respiration. These results could help to develop a better understanding of the responsive mechanism of sea cucumber under hypoxia stress and provide a theoretical basis for the prevention of hypoxia risk. PMID:29719735

  10. The inhibitory effect of Mesembryanthemum edule (L.) bolus essential oil on some pathogenic fungal isolates.

    PubMed

    Omoruyi, Beauty E; Afolayan, Anthony J; Bradley, Graeme

    2014-05-23

    Mesembryanthemum edule is a medicinal plant which has been indicated by Xhosa traditional healers in the treatment HIV associated diseases such as tuberculosis, dysentery, diabetic mellitus, laryngitis, mouth infections, ringworm eczema and vaginal infections. The investigation of the essential oil of this plant could help to verify the rationale behind the use of the plant as a cure for these illnesses. The essential oil from M. edule was analysed by GC/MS. Concentration ranging from 0.005-5 mg/ml of the hydro-distilled essential oil was tested against some fungal strains, using micro-dilution method. The plant minimum inhibitory activity on the fungal strains was determined. GC/MS analysis of the essential oil resulted in the identification of 28 compounds representing 99.99% of the total essential oil. A total amount of 10.6 and 36.61% constituents were obtained as monoterpenes and oxygenated monoterpenes. The amount of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (3.58%) was low compared to the oxygenated sesquiterpenes with pick area of 9.28%. Total oil content of diterpenes and oxygenated diterpenes detected from the essential oil were 1.43% and 19.24%. The fatty acids and their methyl esters content present in the essential oil extract were found to be 19.25%. Antifungal activity of the essential oil extract tested against the pathogenic fungal, inhibited C. albican, C. krusei, C. rugosa, C. glabrata and C. neoformans with MICs range of 0.02-0.31 mg/ml. the activity of the essential oil was found competing with nystatin and amphotericin B used as control. Having accounted the profile chemical constituent found in M. edule oil and its important antifungal properties, we consider that its essential oil might be useful in pharmaceutical and food industry as natural antibiotic and food preservative.

  11. [Oxidation behavior and kinetics of representative VOCs emitted from petrochemical industry over CuCeOx composite oxides].

    PubMed

    Chen, Chang-Wei; Yu, Yan-Ke; Chen, Jin-Sheng; He, Chi

    2013-12-01

    CuCeOx composite catalysts were synthesized via coprecipitation (COP-CuCeO,) and incipient impregnation (IMP-CuCeOx) methods, respectively. The physicochemical properties of the samples were characterized by XRD, low-temperature N2 sorption, H2-TPR and O2-TPD. The influences of reactant composition and concentration, reaction space velocity, O2 content, H2O concentration, and catalyst type on the oxidation behaviors of benzene, toluene, and n-hexane emitted from petrochemical industry were systematically investigated. In addition, the related kinetic parameters were model fitted. Compared with IMP-CuCeOx, COP-CuCeOx had well-dispersed active phase, better low-temperature reducibility, and more active surface oxygen species. The increase of reactant concentration was unfavorable for toluene oxidation, while the opposite phenomenon could be observed in n-hexane oxidation. The inlet concentration of benzene was irrelevant to its conversion under high oxidation rate. The introduction of benzene obviously inhibited the oxidation of toluene and n-hexane, while the presence of toluene had a positive effect on beuzene conversion. The presence of n-hexane could promote the oxidation of toluene, while toluene had a negative influence on e-hexane oxidation. Both low space velocity and high oxygen concentration were beneficial for the oxidation process, and the variation of oxygen content had negligible effect on n-hexane and henzene oxidation. The presence of H2O noticeably inhibited the oxidation of toluene, while significantly accelerated the oxidation procedure of henzene and n-hexane. COP-CuCeOx had superior catalytic performance for toluene and benzene oxidation, while IMP-CuCeOx showed higher n-hexane oxidation activity under dry condition. The oxidation behaviors under different conditions could be well fitted and predicted by the pseudo first-order kinetic model.

  12. Structural Variation of LaMnO3+δ by Oxygen Nonstoichiometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Niwa, Eiki; Maeda, Hiroki; Hashimoto, Takuya; Mizusaki, Junichiro

    2013-07-01

    The relationship between oxygen content and crystal structure of LaMnO3+δ, which is mother phase of cathode material for solid oxide fuel cells, has been investigated by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry and iodometric titration. It was confirmed that LaMnO3+δ with different oxygen content can be prepared by controlling sintering temperature in static air. Crystal system of LaMnO3.17±0.02 and LaMnO3.13±0.01 at room temperature was rhombohedral with space group of Rbar {3}c, whereas crystal structure of LaMnO3.08±0.01 was orthorhombic whose space group was proposed to be Pmna (No. 53). With increase of oxygen content in LaMnO3+δ, molar volume decreased and higher crystal symmetry was obtained.

  13. Effect of azoxystrobin fungicide on the physiological and biochemical indices and ginsenoside contents of ginseng leaves.

    PubMed

    Liang, Shuang; Xu, Xuanwei; Lu, Zhongbin

    2018-04-01

    The impact of fungicide azoxystrobin, applied as foliar spray, on the physiological and biochemical indices and ginsenoside contents of ginseng was studied in ginseng ( Panax ginseng Mey. cv. "Ermaya") under natural environmental conditions. Different concentrations of 25% azoxystrobin SC (150 g a.i./ha and 225 g a.i./ha) on ginseng plants were sprayed three times, and the changes in physiological and biochemical indices and ginsenoside contents of ginseng leaves were tested. Physiological and biochemical indices were measured using a spectrophotometer (Shimadzu UV-2450). Every index was determined three times per replication. Extracts of ginsenosides were analyzed by HPLC (Shimadzu LC20-AB) utilizing a GL-Wondasil C 18 column. Chlorophyll and soluble protein contents were significantly ( p  = 0.05) increased compared with the control by the application of azoxystrobin. Additionally, activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, peroxidase, and ginsenoside contents in azoxystrobin-treated plants were improved, and malondialdehyde content and O 2 - contents were reduced effectively. Azoxystrobin treatments to ginseng plants at all growth stages suggested that the azoxystrobin-induced delay of senescence was due to an enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity protecting the plants from harmful active oxygen species. When the dose of azoxystrobin was 225 g a.i./ha, the effect was more significant. This work suggested that azoxystrobin played a role in delaying senescence by changing physiological and biochemical indices and improving ginsenoside contents in ginseng leaves.

  14. Oxygen enhanced switching to combustion of lower rank fuels

    DOEpatents

    Kobayashi, Hisashi; Bool, III, Lawrence E.; Wu, Kuang Tsai

    2004-03-02

    A furnace that combusts fuel, such as coal, of a given minimum energy content to obtain a stated minimum amount of energy per unit of time is enabled to combust fuel having a lower energy content, while still obtaining at least the stated minimum energy generation rate, by replacing a small amount of the combustion air fed to the furnace by oxygen. The replacement of oxygen for combustion air also provides reduction in the generation of NOx.

  15. Extracts of Fruits and Vegetables Activate the Antioxidant Response Element in IMR-32 Cells.

    PubMed

    Orena, Stephen; Owen, Jennifer; Jin, Fuxia; Fabian, Morgan; Gillitt, Nicholas D; Zeisel, Steven H

    2015-09-01

    The biological effects of antioxidant nutrients are mediated in part by activation of antioxidant response elements (AREs) on genes for enzymes involved in endogenous pathways that prevent free radical damage. Traditional approaches for identifying antioxidant molecules in foods, such as total phenolic compound (TP) content or oxygen radical absorption capacity (ORAC), do not measure capacity to activate AREs. The goal of this study was to develop an assay to assess the ARE activation capacity of fruit and vegetable extracts and determine whether such capacity was predicted by TP content and/or ORAC activity. Fruits and vegetables were homogenized, extracted with acidified ethanol, lyophilized, and resuspended in growth medium. Human IMR-32 neuroblastoma cells, transfected with an ARE-firefly luciferase reporter, were exposed to extracts for 5 h. Firefly luciferase was normalized to constitutively expressed Renilla luciferase with tertiary butylhydroquinone (tBHQ) as a positive control. TP content and ORAC activity were measured for each extract. Relations between TPs and ORAC and ARE activity were determined. A total of 107 of 134 extracts tested significantly activated the ARE-luciferase reporter from 1.2- to 58-fold above that of the solvent control (P < 0.05) in human IMR-32 cells. ARE activity, TP content, and ORAC ranked higher in peels than in associated flesh. Despite this relation, ARE activity did not correlate with TP content (Spearman ρ = 0.05, P = 0.57) and only modestly but negatively correlated with ORAC (Spearman ρ = -0.24, P < 0.01). Many extracts activated the ARE more than predicted by the TP content or ORAC. The ARE reporter assay identified many active fruit and vegetable extracts in human IMR-32 cells. There are components of fruits and vegetables that activate the ARE but are not phenolic compounds and are low in ORAC. The ARE-luciferase reporter assay is likely a better predictor of the antioxidant benefits of fruits and vegetables than TP or ORAC. © 2015 American Society for Nutrition.

  16. Effect of roasting on phenolic content and antioxidant activities of whole cashew nuts, kernels, and testa.

    PubMed

    Chandrasekara, Neel; Shahidi, Fereidoon

    2011-05-11

    The effect of roasting on the content of phenolic compounds and antioxidant properties of cashew nuts and testa was studied. Whole cashew nuts, subjected to low-temperature (LT) and high-temperature (HT) treatments, were used to determine the antioxidant activity of products. Antioxidant activities of cashew nut, kernel, and testa phenolics extracted increased as the roasting temperature increased. The highest activity, as determined by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity, oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity, Trolox equivalent antioxidant activity (TEAC), and reducing power, was achieved when nuts were roasted at 130 °C for 33 min. Furthermore, roasting increased the total phenolic content (TPC) in both the soluble and bound extracts from whole nut, kernel, and testa but decreased that of the proanthocyanidins (PC) except for the soluble extract of cashew kernels. In addition, cashew testa afforded a higher extract yield, TPC, and PC in both soluble and bound fractions compared to that in whole nuts and kernels. Phenolic acids, namely, syringic (the predominant one), gallic, and p-coumaric acids, were identified. Flavonoids, namely, (+)-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, and epigallocatechin, were also identified, and their contents increased with increasing temperature. The results so obtained suggest that HT-short time (HTST) roasting effectively enhances the antioxidant activity of cashew nuts and testa.

  17. Influence of the environmental factors on the intensity of the oxygen, ammonium, and phosphate metabolism in the agar-containing seaweed Ahnfeltia tobuchiensis (Ahnfeltiales, Rhodophyta)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cherbadgy, I. I.; Sabitova, L. I.

    2011-02-01

    A complex study of the influence of various environmental factors on the rate of the oxygen (MO 2), ammonium (MNH 4), and phosphate (MPO 4) metabolism in Ahnfeltia tobuchiensis has been carried out in situ in the Izmena Bay of Kunashir Island. The following environmental factors have been included into the investigation: the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR); the ammonium (NH4); the phosphate (PO4); and the tissue content of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and chlorophyll a (Chl). The population of agar-containing seaweed A. tobuchiensis forms a layer with a thickness up to 0.5 m, which occupies about 23.3 km2; the population's biomass is equal to 125000 tons. The quantitative assessment of the organic matter production and nutrient consumption during the oxygen metabolism (MO 2) has been carried out for the whole population. It has been shown that the daily rate depends on the PAR intensity, the seawater concentrations of PO4 and NH4, and the tissue content of N and P ( r 2 = 0.78, p < 0.001). The daily NH4 consumption averages 0.21 μmol/(gDW h) and depends on the NH4 and O2 concentrations in the seawater and on the C and Chl a content in the algal tissues ( r 2 = 0.64, p < 0.001). The daily PO4 consumption averages 0.01 μmol/(gDW h) and depends on the NH4 concentration in the seawater and on the P content in the algal tissues ( r 2 = 0.40, p < 0.001).

  18. Simulated digestion of Vitis vinifera seed powder: polyphenolic content and antioxidant properties.

    PubMed

    Janisch, Kerstin M; Olschläger, Carolin; Treutter, Dieter; Elstner, Erich F

    2006-06-28

    There is increasing evidence that reactive oxygen species arising from several enzymatic reactions are mediators of inflammatory events. Plant preparations have the potential for scavenging such reactive oxygen species. Flavans and procyanidins are bioavailable and stable during the process of cooking. This study used conditions that mimicked digestion of Vitis vinifera seed powder in the stomach (acidic preparation) and small intestine (neutral preparation). The flavonoids of these two preparations were released during simulated digestion and were determined with HPLC analysis. Biochemical model reactions relevant for the formation of reactive oxygen species in vivo at inflammatory sites were used to determine the antioxidant properties of the two preparations. The inhibition of the indicator reaction for the formation of reactive oxygen species represents a potential mechanism of the physiological activity of the corresponding preparation. The results of this work show clearly that the polyphenols released during the simulated digestion of the two preparations have good scavenging potential against superoxide radicals, hydroxyl radicals, and singlet oxygen. They protect low-density lipoprotein against copper-induced oxidation due to the copper-chelating properties and their chain-breaking abilities in lipid peroxidation.

  19. Natural abundant (17) O NMR in a 1.5-T Halbach magnet.

    PubMed

    Sørensen, Morten K; Bakharev, Oleg N; Jensen, Ole; Nielsen, Niels Chr

    2016-06-01

    We present mobile, low-field (17) O NMR as a means for monitoring oxygen in liquids. Whereas oxygen is one of the most important elements, oxygen NMR is limited by a poor sensitivity related to low natural abundance and gyro-magnetic ratio of the NMR active (17) O isotope. Here, we demonstrate (17) O NMR detection at a Larmor frequency of 8.74 MHz in a 1.5-T Halbach neodymium magnet with a home-built digital NMR instrument suitable for large-scale production and in-line monitoring applications. The proposed (17) O NMR sensor may be applied for direct, noninvasive measurements of water content in, for example, oil, manure, or food in automated quality or process control. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  20. Spectroscopic Determination of Trace Contaminants in High Purity Oxygen

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hornung, Steven D.

    2011-01-01

    Oxygen used for extravehicular activities (EVA) must be free of contaminants because a difference in a few tenths of a percent of argon or nitrogen content can mean significant reduction in available EVA time. These inert gases build up in the extravehicular mobility unit because they are not metabolized or scrubbed from the atmosphere. Measurement of oxygen purity above 99.5% is problematic, and currently only complex instruments such as gas chromatographs or mass spectrometers are used for these determinations. Because liquid oxygen boil-off from the space shuttle will no longer be available to supply oxygen for EVA use, other concepts are being developed to produce and validate high purity oxygen from cabin air aboard the International Space Station. A prototype optical emission technique capable of detecting argon and nitrogen below 0.1% in oxygen was developed at White Sands Test Facility. This instrument uses a glow discharge in reduced pressure gas to produce atomic emission from the species present. Because the atomic emission lines from oxygen, nitrogen, and argon are discrete and in many cases well-separated, trace amounts of argon and nitrogen can be detected in the ultraviolet and visible spectrum. This is a straightforward, direct measurement of the target contaminants and may lend itself to a device capable of on-orbit verification of oxygen purity. System design and optimized measurement parameters are presented.

  1. Air separation and oxygen storage properties of hexagonal rare-earth manganites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abughayada, Castro

    This dissertation presents evaluation results of hexagonal Y1-x RxMnO3+delta (R = Er, Y, Dy, Pr, La, Tb and Ho) rare-earth manganites for prospective air separation applications. In these materials, oxygen content is sensitively dependent on the surrounding conditions of temperature and/or oxygen partial pressure, and therefore they exhibit the ability to selectively absorb, store, and release significant amounts of separated oxygen from air. This study presents a full characterization of their thermogravimetric characteristics and air separation capabilities. With the expected potential impact of oxygen content on the physical properties of these materials, the scope of this work is expanded to explore other relevant properties such as magnetic, transport, and dilatometric characteristics. Single-phase polycrystalline samples of these materials were achieved in the hexagonal P63cm phase through solid state reaction at elevated temperatures. Further annealings under reducing conditions were required for samples with large rare-earth cations in order to suppress the competing perovskite structure and form in the anticipated hexagonal phase. Thermogravimetric measurements in oxygen atmospheres demonstrated that samples with the larger R ionic radii show rapid and reversible incorporation of significant amounts of excess oxygen (0.41 > delta > 0) at an unusual low temperature range ~190-325 °C. The reversible oxygen storage characteristics of HoMnO3+delta and related materials shown by the fast incorporation and release of interstitial oxygen at easily accessible elevated temperatures of ~300 °C demonstrate the feasibility and potential for low-cost thermal swing adsorption TSA process for oxygen separation and enrichment from air. Neutron and X-ray powder diffraction measurements confirmed the presence of three line compounds RMnO3+delta, the oxygen stoichiometric P6 3cm (delta = 0 for all R), the intermediate oxygen content superstructure phase R3c (delta ~ 0.28 for R = Ho, Dy, Dy0.5Y0.5, and Dy0.3Y0.7) constructed by tripling the c-axis of the original unit cell, and the highly oxygen-loaded Pca21 phase (delta = 0.40 for all R). In-situ synchrotron diffraction showed thermal stability of these single phases and their coexistence ranges, demonstrating that the stability of the delta = 0.28 phase increases with the ionic size of the R ion. The magnetic properties of the multiferroic RMnO3+delta were found to be dependent on the oxygen content of these compounds. Below the magnetic ordering temperatures, samples with higher oxygen content showed slightly decreased magnetization relative to the less oxygenated ones. Dilatometry measurements suggest that the thermal expansion coefficient TEC of the oxygen-loaded Pca21 phase is slightly larger than that of the stoichiometric P63cm phase. The calculated Pca21 to P63cm chemical expansion coefficient 14.38 x 10-3 [mole-O]-1 was found to be within the expected range for the hexagonal Y0.97La0.03MnO3+delta sample.

  2. Creation of Triple Hierarchical Micro-Meso-Macroporous N-doped Carbon Shells with Hollow Cores Toward the Electrocatalytic Oxygen Reduction Reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xing, Ruohao; Zhou, Tingsheng; Zhou, Yao; Ma, Ruguang; Liu, Qian; Luo, Jun; Wang, Jiacheng

    2018-03-01

    A series of triple hierarchical micro-meso-macroporous N-doped carbon shells with hollow cores have been successfully prepared via etching N-doped hollow carbon spheres with CO2 at high temperatures. The surface areas, total pore volumes and micropore percentages of the CO2-activated samples evidently increase with increasing activation temperature from 800 to 950 °C, while the N contents show a contrary trend from 7.6 to 3.8 at%. The pyridinic and graphitic nitrogen groups are dominant among various N-containing groups in the samples. The 950 °C-activated sample (CANHCS-950) has the largest surface area (2072 m2 g-1), pore volume (1.96 cm3 g-1), hierarchical micro-mesopore distributions (1.2, 2.6 and 6.2 nm), hollow macropore cores ( 91 nm) and highest relative content of pyridinic and graphitic N groups. This triple micro-meso-macropore system could synergistically enhance the activity because macropores could store up the reactant, mesopores could reduce the transport resistance of the reactants to the active sites, and micropores could be in favor of the accumulation of ions. Therefore, the CANHCS-950 with optimized structure shows the optimal and comparable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity but superior methanol tolerance and long-term durability to commercial Pt/C with a 4e--dominant transfer pathway in alkaline media. These excellent properties in combination with good stability and recyclability make CANHCSs among the most promising metal-free ORR electrocatalysts reported so far in practical applications. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

  3. Protective Effects of LSGYGP from Fish Skin Gelatin Hydrolysates on UVB-Induced MEFs by Regulation of Oxidative Stress and Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity.

    PubMed

    Ma, Qingyu; Liu, Qiuming; Yuan, Ling; Zhuang, Yongliang

    2018-03-28

    A previous study has shown that tilapia fish skin gelatin hydrolysates inhibited photoaging in vivo, and that, Leu-Ser-Gly-Tyr-Gly-Pro (LSGYGP) identified in the hydrolysate had a high hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. In this study, activities of LSGYGP were further evaluated using ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). UVB irradiation significantly increased the intercellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activities and decreased the content of collagen in MEFs. LSGYGP reduced the intercellular ROS generation in UVB-induced MEFs. Meanwhile, the decrease of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the increase of malondiaidehyde (MDA) content were inhibited by LSGYGP. LSGYGP reduced MMP-1 and MMP-9 activities in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking simulation indicated that LSGYGP inhibited MMPs activities by docking the active sites of MMP-1 and MMP-9. Furthermore, LSGYGP also affected the intercellular phosphorylation of UVB-induced the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. LSGYGP could protect collagen synthesis in MEFs under UVB irradiation by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating MMPs activities.

  4. Protective Effects of LSGYGP from Fish Skin Gelatin Hydrolysates on UVB-Induced MEFs by Regulation of Oxidative Stress and Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity

    PubMed Central

    Ma, Qingyu; Liu, Qiuming; Yuan, Ling; Zhuang, Yongliang

    2018-01-01

    A previous study has shown that tilapia fish skin gelatin hydrolysates inhibited photoaging in vivo, and that, Leu-Ser-Gly-Tyr-Gly-Pro (LSGYGP) identified in the hydrolysate had a high hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. In this study, activities of LSGYGP were further evaluated using ultraviolet B (UVB)-induced mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). UVB irradiation significantly increased the intercellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) activities and decreased the content of collagen in MEFs. LSGYGP reduced the intercellular ROS generation in UVB-induced MEFs. Meanwhile, the decrease of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and the increase of malondiaidehyde (MDA) content were inhibited by LSGYGP. LSGYGP reduced MMP-1 and MMP-9 activities in a dose-dependent manner. Molecular docking simulation indicated that LSGYGP inhibited MMPs activities by docking the active sites of MMP-1 and MMP-9. Furthermore, LSGYGP also affected the intercellular phosphorylation of UVB-induced the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. LSGYGP could protect collagen synthesis in MEFs under UVB irradiation by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating MMPs activities. PMID:29597313

  5. Impact of carbon, oxygen and sulfur content of microscale zerovalent iron particles on its reactivity towards chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons.

    PubMed

    Velimirovic, Milica; Larsson, Per-Olof; Simons, Queenie; Bastiaens, Leen

    2013-11-01

    Zerovalent iron (ZVI) abiotically degrades several chlorinated aliphatic hydrocarbons (CAHs) via reductive dechlorination, which offers perspectives for in situ groundwater remediation applications. The difference in reactivity between ZVI particles is often linked with their specific surface area. However, other parameters may influence the reactivity as well. Earlier, we reported for a set of microscale zerovalent iron (mZVI) particles the disappearance kinetic of different CAHs which were collected under consistent experimental conditions. In the present study, these kinetic data were correlated with the carbon, oxygen and sulfur content of mZVI particles. It was confirmed that not only the specific surface area affects the disappearance kinetic of CAHs, but also the chemical composition of the mZVI particles. The chemical composition, in addition, influences CAHs removal mechanism inducing sorption onto mZVI particles instead of dechlorination. Generally, high disappearance kinetic of CAHs was observed for particles containing less oxygen. A high carbon content, on the other hand, induced nonreactive sorption of the contaminants on the mZVI particles. To obtain efficient remediation of CAHs by mZVI particles, this study suggested that the carbon and oxygen content should not exceed 0.5% and 1% respectively. Finally, the efficiency of the mZVI particles may be improved to some extent by enriching them with sulfur. However, the impact of sulfur content on the reactivity of mZVI particles is less pronounced than that of the carbon and oxygen content. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Modification of mitochondrial function, cytoplasmic lipid content and cryosensitivity of bovine embryos by resveratrol.

    PubMed

    Abe, Takahito; Kawahara-Miki, Ryouka; Hara, Tomotaka; Noguchi, Tatsuo; Hayashi, Takeshi; Shirasuna, Koumei; Kuwayama, Takehito; Iwata, Hisataka

    2017-10-18

    Resveratrol is a potent activator of NAD-dependent deacetyltransferase sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and affects lipid metabolism and ATP generation in somatic cells. In the present study, the effects of supplementing culture medium with resveratrol on lipid metabolism, ATP generation, and cryosensitivity of bovine in vitro produced embryos were investigated. Bovine early cleaved-stage embryos were cultured in medium containing 0 or 0.5 µM resveratrol for 1 or 5 days. Resveratrol treatment for both 1 day and 5 days increased the expression levels of SIRT1 and phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK) in the embryos. Furthermore, resveratrol treatment was effective to increase ATP generation and reduce lipid content of the embryos. The effects of resveratrol treatment were diminished by the SIRT1 inhibitor "EX527", and the reduced lipid content was reversed by treatment with etomoxir (a potent inhibitor of beta-oxidation). Blastocysts developed after resveratrol treatment showed low levels reactive oxygen species and increased cryotolerance. These results demonstrate that resveratrol improves in vitro development of bovine embryos, while reducing cytoplasmic lipid content through activation of beta-oxidation, thereby effective for production of bovine blastocysts with enhanced cryotolerance.

  7. [Toxic effects of nano-TiO2 on Gymnodinium breve].

    PubMed

    Li, Feng-Min; Zhao, Wei; Li, Yuan-Yuan; Tian, Zhi-Jia; Wang, Zhen-Yu

    2012-01-01

    In order to reveal the toxicity and mechanism of nano-TiO2 on algae, the inhibition effect, enzyme activity, oxygen free radicals of nano-TiO2 on the growth of G. breve were investigated. The results showed that G. breve was inhibited by nano-TiO2, and the 72 h-EC50 was 9.7 mg x L(-1). With the increasing concentration of nano-titanium dioxide, the activities of SOD decrease significantly (P < 0.05). The content of hydrogen peroxide radicals and the activities of CAT increase significantly (P < 0.05), and the content of superoxide anion shows the increasing trend. The content of hydrogen peroxide radicals was 0.083 U x mL(-1) in 0 mg x L(-1) nano-TiO2 suspension while that was 1.1 U x mL(-1) in control after 48 h. Through the study of 20 mg x L(-1) nano-titanium dioxide on G. breve at different times, the activities of SOD and CAT, the content of MDA are consistent, which the highest values is achieved at the exposure time of 12 hours and the lowest value is found at the exposure time of 48 hours. The content of hydroxyl radical increased significantly at the exposure time of 48 hours. The activity of SOD was 0.14 U x (10(7) cell x min)(-1) in G. breve at 12 h which was ten times higher than that at 48 h.

  8. Laser light and magnetic field stimulation effect on biochemical, enzymes activities and chlorophyll contents in soybean seeds and seedlings during early growth stages.

    PubMed

    Asghar, Tehseen; Jamil, Yasir; Iqbal, Munawar; Zia-Ul-Haq; Abbas, Mazhar

    2016-12-01

    Laser and magnetic field bio-stimulation attracted the keen interest of scientific community in view of their potential to enhance seed germination, seedling growth, physiological, biochemical and yield attributes of plants, cereal crops and vegetables. Present study was conducted to appraise the laser and magnetic field pre-sowing seed treatment effects on soybean sugar, protein, nitrogen, hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) ascorbic acid (AsA), proline, phenolic and malondialdehyde (MDA) along with chlorophyll contents (Chl "a" "b" and total chlorophyll contents). Specific activities of enzymes such as protease (PRT), amylase (AMY), catalyst (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxides (POD) were also assayed. The specific activity of enzymes (during germination and early growth), biochemical and chlorophyll contents were enhanced significantly under the effect of both laser and magnetic pre-sowing treatments. Magnetic field treatment effect was slightly higher than laser treatment except PRT, AMY and ascorbic acid contents. However, both treatments (laser and magnetic field) effects were significantly higher versus control (un-treated seeds). Results revealed that laser and magnetic field pre-sowing seed treatments have potential to enhance soybean biological moieties, chlorophyll contents and metabolically important enzymes (degrade stored food and scavenge reactive oxygen species). Future study should be focused on growth characteristics at later stages and yield attributes. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Coal Combustion Behavior in New Ironmaking Process of Top Gas Recycling Oxygen Blast Furnace

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Zhenfeng; Xue, Qingguo; Tang, Huiqing; Wang, Guang; Wang, Jingsong

    2017-10-01

    The top gas recycling oxygen blast furnace (TGR-OBF) is a new ironmaking process which can significantly reduce the coke ratio and emissions of carbon dioxide. To better understand the coal combustion characteristics in the TGR-OBF, a three dimensional model was developed to simulate the lance-blowpipe-tuyere-raceway of a TGR-OBF. The combustion characteristics of pulverized coal in TGR-OBF were investigated. Furthermore, the effects of oxygen concentration and temperature were also analyzed. The simulation results show that the coal burnout increased by 16.23% compared to that of the TBF. The oxygen content has an obvious effect on the burnout. At 70% oxygen content, the coal burnout is only 21.64%, with a decrease of 50.14% compared to that of TBF. Moreover, the effect of oxygen temperature is also very obvious.

  10. HIGH DENSITY NUCLEAR FUEL COMPOSITION

    DOEpatents

    Litton, F.B.

    1962-07-17

    ABS>A nuclear fuel consisting essentially of uranium monocarbide and containing 2.2 to 4.6 wt% carbon, 0.1 to 2.3 wt% oxygen, 0.05 to 2.5 wt% nitrogen, and the balance uranium was developed. The maximum oxygen content was less than one-half the carbon content by weight and the carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen are present as a single phase substituted solid solution of UC, C, O, and N. A method of preparing the fuel composition is described. (AEC)

  11. Soft-Templating Synthesis of N-Doped Mesoporous Carbon Nanospheres for Enhanced Oxygen Reduction Reaction.

    PubMed

    Bayatsarmadi, Bita; Zheng, Yao; Jaroniec, Mietek; Qiao, Shi Zhang

    2015-07-01

    The development of ordered mesoporous carbon materials with controllable structures and improved physicochemical properties by doping heteroatoms such as nitrogen into the carbon framework has attracted a lot of attention, especially in relation to energy storage and conversion. Herein, a series of nitrogen-doped mesoporous carbon spheres (NMCs) was synthesized via a facile dual soft-templating procedure by tuning the nitrogen content and carbonization temperature. Various physical and (electro)chemical properties of the NMCs have been comprehensively investigated to pave the way for a feasible design of nitrogen-containing porous carbon materials. The optimized sample showed a favorable electrocatalytic activity as evidenced by a high kinetic current and positive onset potential for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) due to its large surface area, high pore volume, good conductivity, and high nitrogen content, which make it a highly efficient ORR metal-free catalyst in alkaline solutions. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  12. Influence of modified atmosphere packaging on volatile compounds and physicochemical and antioxidant attributes of fresh-cut pineapple (Ananas comosus).

    PubMed

    Montero-Calderón, Marta; Rojas-Graü, María Alejandra; Aguiló-Aguayo, Ingrid; Soliva-Fortuny, Robert; Martín-Belloso, Olga

    2010-04-28

    The effects of modified atmosphere packaging on volatile compound content and physicochemical and antioxidant attributes of Gold cultivar fresh-cut pineapples were assessed throughout storage at 5 degrees C. Fresh-cut pineapple pieces were packed under LO (low oxygen, 12% O(2), 1% CO(2)), AIR (20.9% O(2)) and HO (high oxygen, 38% O(2)) headspace atmospheres. Methyl butanoate, methyl 2-methylbutanoate, and methyl hexanoate were the most abundant volatiles regardless of the packaging atmosphere and days of storage; whereas most odor active volatiles were methyl and ethyl 2-methylbutanoate, 2,5-dimethyl-4-methoxy-3(2H)-furanone and ethyl hexanoate. Physicochemical attributes of pineapple did not significantly vary, whereas vitamin C content and total antioxidant capacity were lower for fresh-cut pineapple in HO (488 +/- 38 mg/100 mg(fw) and 54.4 +/- 5.7%, respectively) than for LO and AIR packages. Storage life of fresh-cut pineapple was limited to 14 days by volatile compounds losses and fermentation processes.

  13. Inhibitory effect of burdock leaves on elastase and tyrosinase activity.

    PubMed

    Horng, Chi-Ting; Wu, Hsing-Chen; Chiang, Ni-Na; Lee, Chiu-Fang; Huang, Yu-Syuan; Wang, Hui-Yun; Yang, Jai-Sing; Chen, Fu-An

    2017-10-01

    Burdock ( Arctium lappa L.) leaves generate a considerable amount of waste following burdock root harvest in Taiwan. To increase the use of burdock leaves, the present study investigated the optimal methods for producing burdock leaf extract (BLE) with high antioxidant polyphenolic content, including drying methods and solvent extraction concentration. In addition, the elastase and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of BLE was examined. Burdock leaves were dried by four methods: Shadow drying, oven drying, sun drying and freeze-drying. The extract solution was then subjected to total polyphenol content analysis and the method that produced BLE with the highest amount of total antioxidant components was taken forward for further analysis. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-pycrylhydrazyl scavenging, antielastase and antityrosinase activity of the BLE were measured to enable the evaluation of the antioxidant and skin aging-associated enzyme inhibitory activities of BLE. The results indicated that the total polyphenolic content following extraction with ethanol (EtOH) was highest using the freeze-drying method, followed by the oven drying, shadow drying and sun drying methods. BLE yielded a higher polyphenol content and stronger antioxidant activity as the ratio of the aqueous content of the extraction solvent used increased. BLE possesses marked tyrosinase and elastase inhibitory activities, with its antielastase activity notably stronger compared with its antityrosinase activity. These results indicate that the concentration of the extraction solvent was associated with the antioxidant and skin aging-associated enzyme inhibitory activity of BLE. The reactive oxygen species scavenging theory of skin aging may explain the tyrosinase and elastase inhibitory activity of BLE. In conclusion, the optimal method for obtaining BLE with a high antioxidant polyphenolic content was freeze-drying followed by 30-50% EtOH extraction. In addition, the antielastase and antityrosinase activities of the BLE produced may be aid in the development of skincare products with antiwrinkle and skin-evening properties.

  14. Inhibitory effect of burdock leaves on elastase and tyrosinase activity

    PubMed Central

    Horng, Chi-Ting; Wu, Hsing-Chen; Chiang, Ni-Na; Lee, Chiu-Fang; Huang, Yu-Syuan; Wang, Hui-Yun; Yang, Jai-Sing; Chen, Fu-An

    2017-01-01

    Burdock (Arctium lappa L.) leaves generate a considerable amount of waste following burdock root harvest in Taiwan. To increase the use of burdock leaves, the present study investigated the optimal methods for producing burdock leaf extract (BLE) with high antioxidant polyphenolic content, including drying methods and solvent extraction concentration. In addition, the elastase and tyrosinase inhibitory activity of BLE was examined. Burdock leaves were dried by four methods: Shadow drying, oven drying, sun drying and freeze-drying. The extract solution was then subjected to total polyphenol content analysis and the method that produced BLE with the highest amount of total antioxidant components was taken forward for further analysis. The 1,1-diphenyl-2-pycrylhydrazyl scavenging, antielastase and antityrosinase activity of the BLE were measured to enable the evaluation of the antioxidant and skin aging-associated enzyme inhibitory activities of BLE. The results indicated that the total polyphenolic content following extraction with ethanol (EtOH) was highest using the freeze-drying method, followed by the oven drying, shadow drying and sun drying methods. BLE yielded a higher polyphenol content and stronger antioxidant activity as the ratio of the aqueous content of the extraction solvent used increased. BLE possesses marked tyrosinase and elastase inhibitory activities, with its antielastase activity notably stronger compared with its antityrosinase activity. These results indicate that the concentration of the extraction solvent was associated with the antioxidant and skin aging-associated enzyme inhibitory activity of BLE. The reactive oxygen species scavenging theory of skin aging may explain the tyrosinase and elastase inhibitory activity of BLE. In conclusion, the optimal method for obtaining BLE with a high antioxidant polyphenolic content was freeze-drying followed by 30–50% EtOH extraction. In addition, the antielastase and antityrosinase activities of the BLE produced may be aid in the development of skincare products with antiwrinkle and skin-evening properties. PMID:28912875

  15. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zagidullin, M V; Azyazov, V N; Malyshev, M S

    The kinetics of the processes occurring in an O{sub 2} – I{sub 2} – He – H{sub 2}O gas flow in which photodissociation of molecular iodine at a wavelength close to 500 nm and excitation of atomic iodine on the {sup 2}P{sub 1/2} – {sup 2}P{sub 3/2} transition by narrow-band radiation near 1315 nm are implemented successively has been analysed. It is shown that implementation of these processes allows one to form an oxygen – iodine medium with a high degree of dissociation of molecular iodine and a relative content of singlet oxygen O{sub 2}(a{sup 1}Δ) exceeding 10%. Having formedmore » a supersonic gas flow with a temperature ∼100 K from this medium, one can reach a small-signal gain of about 10{sup -2} cm{sup -1} on the {sup 2}P{sub 1/2} – {sup 2}P{sub 3/2} transition in iodine atoms. The specific power per unit flow cross section in the oxygen – iodine laser with this active medium may reach ∼100 W cm{sup -2}. (active media)« less

  16. Properties of tungsten coating deposited onto copper by high-speed atmospheric plasma spraying

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jianjun, Huang; Fan, Wang; Ying, Liu; Shishou, Jiang; Xisheng, Wang; Bing, Qi; Liang, Gao

    2011-07-01

    Tungsten (W) coatings were fabricated on copper (Cu) by high-speed atmospheric plasma spray (HAPS) technique. The properties of the porosity, oxygen content, bonding strength and microhardness were measured. The results obtained indicated that the HAPS-W coating showed good properties particularly in terms of porosity and oxygen content. The porosity of the HAPS-W coating was 2.3% and the distribution of pore size diameter was mainly concentrated in the range of 0.01-1 μm. The oxygen content of the coating measured by means of Nitrogen/Oxygen Determinator was about 0.10 wt.%. These initial results suggest that the HAPS-W coating has achieved the reported properties of the vacuum plasma spray (VPS) W coating. Compared with VPS, HAPS-W technique could provide a convenient and low cost way to obtain adequate W coatings for fusion applications.

  17. Structural and electrical properties of sputter deposited ZnO thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Muhammed Shameem P., V.; Mekala, Laxman; Kumar, M. Senthil

    2018-05-01

    The growth of zinc oxide thin films having different oxygen content was achieved at ambient temperature by reactive dc magnetron sputtering technique and their structural and electrical properties are studied. The structural studies show that the films are polycrystalline with a preferential orientation of the grains along the c-axis [002], which increases with increase in oxygen partial pressure. The grain size and the surface roughness of the zinc oxide films are found to decrease with increasing oxygen partial pressure. It is observed that the resistivity of the zinc oxide films can be tuned from semiconducting to insulating regime by varying the oxygen content.

  18. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Eric S. Peterson; Jessica Trudeau; Bill Cleary

    An active-surface membrane technology was used to separate a die lube manufacturing wastewater stream consisting of various oils, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and silicones. The ultrafiltration membranes reduced organics from initial oil and grease contents by 20–25X, carbon oxygen demand (COD) by 1.5 to 2X, and total organic carbon (TOC) by 0.6, while the biological oxygen demand (BOD) remained constant. The active-surface membranes were not fouled as badly as non-active-surface systems and the active-surface membrane flux levels were consistently higher and more stable than those of the non-active-surface membranes tested. Field testing demonstrated that the rotary microfilter can concentrate the diemore » lube, i.e. remove the glycerin component, and produce a die lube suitable for recycling. The recycling system operated for six weeks with only seven cleaning cycles and no mechanical or electrical failures. Test data and quality records indicate that the die casting scrap was reduced from 8.4 to 7.8%. There is no doubt that this test yielded tremendous results. This separation process presents significant opportunities that can be evaluated further.« less

  19. DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Peterson, E. S.; Trudeau, J.; Cleary, B.

    An active-surface membrane technology was used to separate a die lube manufacturing wastewater stream consisting of various oils, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and silicones. The ultrafiltration membranes reduced organics from initial oil and grease contents by 20-25X, carbon oxygen demand (COD) by 1.5 to 2X, and total organic carbon (TOC) by 0.6, while the biological oxygen demand (BOD) remained constant. The active-surface membranes were not fouled as badly as non-active-surface systems and the active-surface membrane flux levels were consistently higher and more stable than those of the non-active-surface membranes tested. Field testing demonstrated that the rotary microfilter can concentrate the diemore » lube, i.e. remove the glycerin component, and produce a die lube suitable for recycling. The recycling system operated for six weeks with only seven cleaning cycles and no mechanical or electrical failures. Test data and quality records indicate that the die casting scrap was reduced from 8.4 to 7.8%. There is no doubt that this test yielded tremendous results. This separation process presents significant opportunities that can be evaluated further.« less

  20. Advances in the analytical methods for determining the antioxidant properties of honey: a review.

    PubMed

    Moniruzzaman, M; Khalil, M I; Sulaiman, S A; Gan, S H

    2012-01-01

    Free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been implicated in contributing to the processes of aging and disease. In an effort to combat free radical activity, scientists are studying the effects of increasing individuals' antioxidant levels through diet and dietary supplements. Honey appears to act as an antioxidant in more ways than one. In the body, honey can mop up free radicals and contribute to better health. Various antioxidant activity methods have been used to measure and compare the antioxidant activity of honey. In recent years, DPPH (Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), ORAC (The Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), ABTS [2, 2-azinobis (3ehtylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diamonium salt], TEAC [6-hydroxy-2, 5, 7, 8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid (Trolox)-equivalent antioxidant capacity] assays have been used to evaluate antioxidant activity of honey. The antioxidant activity of honey is also measured by ascorbic acid content and different enzyme assays like Catalase (CAT), Glutathione Peroxidase (GPO), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD). Among the different methods available, methods that have been validated, standardized and widely reported are recommended.

  1. Deep reactive ion etching of 4H-SiC via cyclic SF6/O2 segments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Luna, Lunet E.; Tadjer, Marko J.; Anderson, Travis J.; Imhoff, Eugene A.; Hobart, Karl D.; Kub, Fritz J.

    2017-10-01

    Cycles of inductively coupled SF6/O2 plasma with low (9%) and high (90%) oxygen content etch segments are used to produce up to 46.6 µm-deep trenches with 5.5 µm-wide openings in single-crystalline 4H-SiC substrates. The low oxygen content segment serves to etch deep in SiC whereas the high oxygen content segment serves to etch SiC at a slower rate, targeting carbon-rich residues on the surface as the combination of carbon-rich and fluorinated residues impact sidewall profile. The cycles work in concert to etch past 30 µm at an etch rate of ~0.26 µm min-1 near room temperature, while maintaining close to vertical sidewalls, high aspect ratio, and high mask selectivity. In addition, power ramps during the low oxygen content segment is used to produce a 1:1 ratio of mask opening to trench bottom width. The effect of process parameters such as cycle time and backside substrate cooling on etch depth and micromasking of the electroplated nickel etch mask are investigated.

  2. Study of dissolved oxygen content in the Eastern Bosporus Strait (Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grigoryeva, N. I.

    2017-09-01

    Seasonal changes in the dissolved oxygen (DO) content in water were analyzed based on long-term observations (2006-2013) in the Eastern Bosporus Strait (Peter the Great Bay, Sea of Japan). It was found that the monthly average DO concentrations at the bottom of the strait were significantly lower in summer than the average annual long-term data. The minimum DO contents were recorded during four months, from July to October. It was shown that the DO content in water depended on changes in current directions in the strait: lower DO contents resulted from hypoxic water inflow, mostly from Amur Bay.

  3. Structural and electronic transformations in substituted La-Sr manganites depending on cations and oxygen content

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karpasyuk, Vladimir; Badelin, Alexey; Merkulov, Denis; Derzhavin, Igor; Estemirova, Svetlana

    2018-05-01

    In the present research experimental data are obtained for the Jahn-Teller O‧ phase formation, phase transformation "orthorhombic-rhombohedral structure" and the change of the conductance type in the systems of manganites La3+1-c+xSr2+c-xMn3+1-c-x-2γMn4+c+2γZn2+xO3+γ, La3+1-c-xSr2+c+xMn3+1-c-x-2γMn4+c+2γGe4+xO3+γ, La3+1-cSr2+cMn3+1-x-c-2γMn4+c+2γ(Zn2+0.5Ge4+0.5)xO3+γ, where Mn4+ ions concentration is independent of "x". Ceramic samples were sintered in air at 1473 K. As-sintered samples had an excess of oxygen content. In order to provide stoichiometric oxygen content, the samples were annealed at 1223 K and partial pressure of oxygen PO2 = 10-1 Pа. Structural characteristics of the O‧ phase were obtained. The position of the phase boundary "orthorhombic-rhombohedral structure" and the temperature of the conductance type change depending on the cation composition of manganites and oxygen content were determined. Possible approaches to the interpretation of experimental results were suggested.

  4. Zero added oxygen for high quality sputtered ITO. A data science investigation of reduced Sn-content and added Zr

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Peshek, Timothy J.; Burst, James M.; Coutts, Timothy J.

    Here, we demonstrate mobilities of >45 cm 2/V s for sputtered tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) films at zero added oxygen. All films were deposited with 5 wt. % SnO 2, instead of the more conventional 8–10 wt. %, and had varying ZrO 2 content from 0 to 3 wt. %, with a subsequent reduction in In 2O 3 content. Moreover, these films were deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering from nominally stoichiometric targets with varying oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient. Anomalous behavior was discovered for films with no Zr-added, where a bimodality of high and low mobilities was discoveredmore » for nominally similar growth conditions. However, all films showed the lowest resistivity and highest mobilities when the oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient was zero. This result is contrasted with several other reports of ITO transport performance having a maximum for small but nonzero oxygen partial pressure. Our result is attributed to the reduced concentration of SnO 2. The addition of ZrO 2 yielded the highest mobilities at >55 cm 2/V s and the films showed a modest increase in optical transmission with increasing Zr-content.« less

  5. Zero added oxygen for high quality sputtered ITO. A data science investigation of reduced Sn-content and added Zr

    DOE PAGES

    Peshek, Timothy J.; Burst, James M.; Coutts, Timothy J.; ...

    2016-01-19

    Here, we demonstrate mobilities of >45 cm 2/V s for sputtered tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) films at zero added oxygen. All films were deposited with 5 wt. % SnO 2, instead of the more conventional 8–10 wt. %, and had varying ZrO 2 content from 0 to 3 wt. %, with a subsequent reduction in In 2O 3 content. Moreover, these films were deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering from nominally stoichiometric targets with varying oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient. Anomalous behavior was discovered for films with no Zr-added, where a bimodality of high and low mobilities was discoveredmore » for nominally similar growth conditions. However, all films showed the lowest resistivity and highest mobilities when the oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient was zero. This result is contrasted with several other reports of ITO transport performance having a maximum for small but nonzero oxygen partial pressure. Our result is attributed to the reduced concentration of SnO 2. The addition of ZrO 2 yielded the highest mobilities at >55 cm 2/V s and the films showed a modest increase in optical transmission with increasing Zr-content.« less

  6. Effects of electrode bevel angle on argon arc properties and weld shape

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dong, W. C.; Lu, S. P.; Li, D. Z.; Y Li, Y.

    2012-07-01

    A numerical modeling of coupled welding arc with weld pool is established using FLUENT software for moving shielded GTA welding to systematically investigate the effects of electrode bevel angle on the argon arc properties as well as the weld shape on SUS304 stainless steel. The calculated results show that the argon arc is constricted and the peak values of heat flux and shear stress on the weld pool decrease with increasing electrode bevel angle, while the radial distribution of heat flux and shear stress varying slightly. The weld shape is controlled by the pool flow patterns driving by the surface tension, gas shear stress, electromagnetic force and buoyancy. The Marangoni convection induced by surface tension plays an important role on weld shapes. All the weld shapes are wide and shallow with low weld metal oxygen content, while the narrow and deep weld shapes form under high weld metal oxygen content, which is related with the oxygen concentration in the shielding gas. The weld depth/width (D/W) ratio increases with increasing electrode bevel angle for high weld metal oxygen content and is not sensitive to the electrode bevel angle under low weld metal oxygen content. The calculated results for the weld shape, weld size and weld D/W ratio agree well with the experimental ones.

  7. Synthesis of TiCr2 intermetallic compound from mechanically activated starting powders via calcio-thermic co-reduction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bayat, O.; Khavandi, A. R.; Ghasemzadeh, R.

    2017-05-01

    Effect of mechanical activation of TiO2 and Cr2O3 oxides as starting materials was investigated for direct synthesis of TiCr2. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) indicated that increasing the ball milling time resulted in lower exothermic reaction temperatures between molten Ca-Cr2O3 and molten Ca-TiO2. A model-free Kissinger type method was applied to DTA data to evaluate the reaction kinetics. The results reveal that the activation energy of the exothermic reactions decreased with increasing the milling time. The structure, oxygen content, and average particle sizes of the obtained TiCr2 product were affected by the ball milling time of the starting materials. Increasing the milling time from 10 to 40 h decreased the average particle size and oxygen content of the obtained TiCr2 from 10 to 2 μm and from 1690 to 1290 ppm, respectively. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results showed that TiCr2 compounds with metastable bcc phase can be produced using nano-sized starting materials, while only a slight amount of bcc phase can be obtained in the TiCr2 compounds, using micron-sized starting materials. The TiCr2 obtained by this method had a hydrogen absorption capability of 0.63 wt % and the kinetics of the hydrogen absorption increased for the 40 h milled sample.

  8. MIL-100-Fe derived N-doped Fe/Fe3C@C electrocatalysts for efficient oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guo, Dakai; Han, Sancan; Wang, Jiacheng; Zhu, Yufang

    2018-03-01

    N-doped porous Fe/Fe3C@C electrocatalysts were prepared by the pyrolysis of the hexamethylenetetramine (HMT)-incorporated MIL-100-Fe at different temperatures (700-1000 °C) under N2 atmosphere. Rotary evaporation of MIL-100-Fe and HMT solution could make more N-enriched HMT molecules enter into the pores of MIL-100-Fe, thus improving nitrogen contents of the final pyrolyzed samples. All pyrolyzed samples show porous textures with middle specific surface areas. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results demonstrate the successful introduction of N atoms into carbon framework. Sample Fe-N2-800 prepared by annealing the precursors with the HMT/MIL-100-Fe weight ratio of 2 at 800 °C exhibits the best electrocatalytic activity towards the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in terms of onset potential and current density because of high graphitic N and pyridinic N content. The enwrapped Fe/Fe3C nanoparticles and Fe-Nx active sites in these samples could also boost the ORR activity synergistically. Moreover, sample Fe-N2-800 demonstrates a dominant four electron reduction process, as well as excellent long-term operation stability and methanol crossover resistance. Thus, the N-doped Fe/Fe3C@C composites derived from the HMT-incorporated MIL-100-Fe are promising electrocatalysts to replace Pt/C for ORR in practical applications.

  9. The effect of Fe-Rh alloying on CO hydrogenation to C 2+ oxygenates

    DOE PAGES

    Palomino, Robert; Magee, Joseph W.; Llorca, Jordi; ...

    2015-05-20

    A combination of reactivity and structural studies using X-ray diffraction (XRD), pair distribution function (PDF), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to identify the active phases of Fe-modified Rh/TiO 2 catalysts for the synthesis of ethanol and other C 2+ oxygenates from CO hydrogenation. XRD and TEM confirm the existence of Fe–Rh alloys for catalyst with 1–7 wt% Fe and ~2 wt% Rh. Rietveld refinements show that FeRh alloy content increases with Fe loading up to ~4 wt%, beyond which segregation to metallic Fe becomes favored over alloy formation. Catalysts that contain Fe metal after reduction exhibit some carburizationmore » as evidenced by the formation of small amounts of Fe 3C during CO hydrogenation. Analysis of the total Fe content of the catalysts also suggests the presence of FeO x also increased under reaction conditions. Reactivity studies show that enhancement of ethanol selectivity with Fe loading is accompanied by a significant drop in CO conversion. Comparison of the XRD phase analyses with selectivity suggests that higher ethanol selectivity is correlated with the presence of Fe–Rh alloy phases. As a result, the interface between Fe and Rh serves to enhance the selectivity of ethanol, but suppresses the activity of the catalyst which is attributed to the blocking or modifying of Rh active sites.« less

  10. A bench-scale assessment for phosphorus release control of sediment by an oxygen-releasing compound (ORC).

    PubMed

    Yang, Jie; Lin, Feng K; Yang, Lei; Hua, Dan Y

    2015-01-01

    The effects of oxygen-releasing compound (ORC) on the control of phosphorus (P) release as well as the spatial and temporal distribution of P fractions in sediment were studied through a bench-scale test. An ORC with an extended oxygen-releasing capacity was prepared. The results of the oxygen-releasing test showed that the ORC provided a prolonged period of oxygen release with a highly effective oxygen content of 60.6% when compared with powdery CaO2. In the bench-scale test, an ORC dose of 180 g·m(-2) provided a higher inhibition efficiency for P release within 50 days. With the application of the ORC, the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration and redox potential (ORP) of the overlying water were notably improved, and the dissolved total phosphorus (DTP) was maintained below 0.689 mg·L(-1) compared to 2.906 mg·L(-1) without the ORC treatment. According to the P fractions distribution, the summation of all detectable P fractions in each sediment layer exhibited an enhanced accumulation tendency with the application of ORC. Higher phosphorus retention efficiencies were observed in the second and third layers of sediment from days 10 to 20 with the ORC. Phosphorus was trapped mainly in the form of iron bound P (Fe-P) and organically bound P (O-P) in sediment with the ORC, whereas the effects of the ORC on exchangeable P (EX-P), apatite-associated P (A-P) and detrital P (De-P) in the sediment sample were not significant. The microbial activities of the sediment samples demonstrated that both the dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and alkaline phosphatase activity (APA) in the upper sediment layer increased with the ORC treatment, which indicated that the mineralization of P was accelerated and the microbial biomass was increased. As the accumulation of P suppressed the release of P, the sediment exhibited an increased P retention efficiency with the application of the ORC.

  11. Robust optode-based method for measuring in situ oxygen profiles in gravelly streambeds.

    PubMed

    Vieweg, Michael; Trauth, Nico; Fleckenstein, Jan H; Schmidt, Christian

    2013-09-03

    One of the key environmental conditions controlling biogeochemical reactions in aquatic sediments like streambeds is the distribution of dissolved oxygen. We present a novel approach for the in situ measurement of vertical oxygen profiles using a planar luminescence-based optical sensor. The instrument consists of a transparent acrylic tube with the oxygen-sensitive layer mounted on the outside. The luminescence is excited and detected by a moveable piston inside the acrylic tube. Since no moving parts are in contact with the streambed, the disturbance of the subsurface flow field is minimized. The precision of the distributed oxygen sensor (DOS) was assessed by a comparison with spot optodes. Although the precision of the DOS, expressed as standard deviation of calculated oxygen air saturation, is lower (0.2-6.2%) compared to spot optodes (<0.1-0.6%), variations of the oxygen content along the profile can be resolved. The uncertainty of the calculated oxygen is assessed with a Monte Carlo uncertainty assessment. The obtained vertical oxygen profiles of 40 cm in length reveal variations of the oxygen content reaching from 90% to 0% air saturation and are characterized by patches of low oxygen rather than a continuous decrease with depth.

  12. Total Phenolic, Phenolic Acid, Anthocyanin, Flavan-3-ol, and Flavonol Profiles and Antioxidant Properties of Pinto and Black Beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.) as Affected by Thermal Processing.

    PubMed

    Xu, Baojun; Chang, Sam K C

    2009-06-10

    The effects of boiling and steaming processes at atmospheric and high pressures on the phenolic components and antioxidant properties of pinto and black beans were investigated. In comparison to the original raw beans, all processing methods caused significant (p < 0.05) decreases in total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), condensed tannin content (CTC), monomeric anthocyanin content (MAC), DPPH free-radical scavenging activity (DPPH), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbing capacity (ORAC) values in both pinto and black beans. Steaming processing resulted in a greater retention of TPC, DPPH, FRAP, and ORAC values than the boiling processes in both pinto and black beans. To further investigate how thermal processing affected phenolic compositions and to elucidate the contribution of individual phenolic compounds to antioxidant properties, phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, and flavonols were quantitatively analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). All thermal processing significantly (p < 0.05) affected individual phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, and flavonols, significantly (p < 0.05) reduced total phenolic acid contents in both pinto and black beans and total flavonol contents in pinto beans, and dramatically reduced anthocyanin contents in black beans. Phenolic acids and flavonols may play important roles on the overall antioxidant activities of pinto beans, while anthocyanins, flavan-3-ols, and flavonols may play important roles on the overall antioxidant activities of black beans.

  13. Decline in global oceanic oxygen content during the past five decades.

    PubMed

    Schmidtko, Sunke; Stramma, Lothar; Visbeck, Martin

    2017-02-15

    Ocean models predict a decline in the dissolved oxygen inventory of the global ocean of one to seven per cent by the year 2100, caused by a combination of a warming-induced decline in oxygen solubility and reduced ventilation of the deep ocean. It is thought that such a decline in the oceanic oxygen content could affect ocean nutrient cycles and the marine habitat, with potentially detrimental consequences for fisheries and coastal economies. Regional observational data indicate a continuous decrease in oceanic dissolved oxygen concentrations in most regions of the global ocean, with an increase reported in a few limited areas, varying by study. Prior work attempting to resolve variations in dissolved oxygen concentrations at the global scale reported a global oxygen loss of 550 ± 130 teramoles (10 12  mol) per decade between 100 and 1,000 metres depth based on a comparison of data from the 1970s and 1990s. Here we provide a quantitative assessment of the entire ocean oxygen inventory by analysing dissolved oxygen and supporting data for the complete oceanic water column over the past 50 years. We find that the global oceanic oxygen content of 227.4 ± 1.1 petamoles (10 15  mol) has decreased by more than two per cent (4.8 ± 2.1 petamoles) since 1960, with large variations in oxygen loss in different ocean basins and at different depths. We suggest that changes in the upper water column are mostly due to a warming-induced decrease in solubility and biological consumption. Changes in the deeper ocean may have their origin in basin-scale multi-decadal variability, oceanic overturning slow-down and a potential increase in biological consumption.

  14. Electrical conductivity of diopside: evidence for oxygen vacancies

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Huebner, J.S.; Voigt, D.E.

    1988-01-01

    Impedance spectra for two natural single crystals of diopside were obtained at 800 to 1300??C and 1-bar pressure over the frequency range 0.001 Hz to 100 kHz in a system closed to all components but oxygen. At both higher and lower fO2 values, no fO2 dependence of conductivity was observed, indicating the presence of different conduction mechanisms. At temperatures less than 1000??C, the activation energy is 1.3 eV, also suggesting a different conduction mechanism. Thus, at least four regimes are necessary to describe the conductivity of this diopside in T-fO2 space. The approximately -1/(7 ?? 1) value of d(log ??)/d(log fO2) in a high-temperature geologic region suggests a reaction by which oxygen vacancies control the conductivity. This relatively pure diopside is much less conducting than olivine or orthopyroxene. A second diopside with greater Fe content but otherwise similar in composition to the near-end-member diopside, is more conducting, has a smaller activation energy (1.0 eV) over the range 1050 to 1225??C, and shows only a weak negative fO2 dependence; suggesting that oxygen vacancies are present but are not the dominant defect in controlling the conductivity. -from Authors

  15. Efficacy of aqueous extract of Hippophae rhamnoides and its bio-active flavonoids against hypoxia-induced cell death

    PubMed Central

    Tulsawani, Rajkumar; Gupta, Rashmi; Misra, Kshipra

    2013-01-01

    Objectives: To investigate the protective efficacy of aqueous extract of Hippophae rhamnoides against chronic hypoxic injury using primary rat hepatocytes. Materials and Methods: The extract was prepared using maceration method and characterized by its phenolic and flavonoid content and chemical antioxidant capacity using ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Hepatocytes were maintained in hypoxia chamber (3% and 1% oxygen) for 72 h. The cells kept under normoxic condition served as control. The cells were treated with the extract and flavonoids; isorhamentin, kaempferol or qurecetin-3-galactoside. After the end of exposure period; cell survival, reactive oxygen species (ROS), leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were measured. Results: The extract showed presence of high phenolic and flavonoid content with significant antioxidant activity in chemical assay. The cell exposed to hypoxia showed concentration dependent cell death and harbored higher reactive oxygen species. In addition, these cells showed significant leakage of intracellular LDH, ALT, and AST accompanied by the diminished levels/activities of GSH, GPx, and SOD. The treatment of cells with aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides reduced hypoxia-induced cell death and prevented increase in ROS levels and leakage of intracellular LDH, ALT, and AST from cells. Moreover, these cells maintained better levels/activities of GSH, GPx, and SOD in comparison to the respective controls. The major flavonoids present in aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides; quercetin-3-galactoside, kaempferol, and isorhamentin also prevented hypoxia induced cell injury individually or in combination, however, the protection offered by these compounds taken together could not match to that of the extract. Conclusions: Overall the findings reveal significance of aqueous extract of H. rhamnoides in controlling ROS-meditated hypoxic injury in cells and can be useful in many hepatic complications. PMID:23833369

  16. Superoxide anion radical-triggered Ca2+ release from cardiac sarcoplasmic reticulum through ryanodine receptor Ca2+ channel.

    PubMed

    Kawakami, M; Okabe, E

    1998-03-01

    The ryanodine receptor Ca2+ channel (RyRC) constitutes the Ca2+-release pathway in sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) of cardiac muscle. A direct mechanical and a Ca2+-triggered mechanism (Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release) have been proposed to explain the in situ activation of Ca2+ release in cardiac muscle. A variety of chemical oxidants have been shown to activate RyRC; however, the role of modification induced by oxygen-derived free radicals in pathological states of the muscle remains to be elucidated. It has been hypothesized that oxygen-derived free radicals initiate Ca2+-mediated functional changes in or damage to cardiac muscle by acting on the SR and promoting an increase in Ca2+ release. We confirmed that superoxide anion radical (O2-) generated from hypoxanthine-xanthine oxidase reaction decreases calmodulin content and increases 45Ca2+ efflux from the heavy fraction of canine cardiac SR vesicles; hypoxanthine-xanthine oxidase also decreases Ca2+ free within the intravesicular space of the SR with no effect on Ca2+-ATPase activity. Current fluctuations through single Ca2+-release channels have been monitored after incorporation into planar phospholipid bilayers. We demonstrate that activation of the channel by O2- is dependent of the presence of calmodulin and identified calmodulin as a functional mediator of O2--triggered Ca2+ release through the RyRC. For the first time, we show that O2- stimulates Ca2+ release from heavy SR vesicles and suggest the importance of accessory proteins such as calmodulin in modulating the effect of O2-. The decreased calmodulin content induced by oxygen-derived free radicals, especially O2-, is a likely mechanism of accumulation of cytosolic Ca2+ (due to increased Ca2+ release from SR) after reperfusion of the ischemic heart.

  17. High-Dose Nicotinamide Suppresses ROS Generation and Augments Population Expansion during CD8(+) T Cell Activation.

    PubMed

    Choi, Ho Jin; Jang, So-Young; Hwang, Eun Seong

    2015-10-01

    During T cell activation, mitochondrial content increases to meet the high energy demand of rapid cell proliferation. With this increase, the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) also increases and causes the rapid apoptotic death of activated cells, thereby facilitating T cell homeostasis. Nicotinamide (NAM) has previously been shown to enhance mitochondria quality and extend the replicative life span of human fibroblasts. In this study, we examined the effect of NAM on CD8(+) T cell activation. NAM treatment attenuated the increase of mitochondrial content and ROS in T cells activated by CD3/CD28 antibodies. This was accompanied by an accelerated and higher-level clonal expansion resulting from attenuated apoptotic death but not increased division of the activated cells. Attenuation of ROS-triggered pro-apoptotic events and upregulation of Bcl-2 expression appeared to be involved. Although cells activated in the presence of NAM exhibited compromised cytokine gene expression, our results suggest a means to augment the size of T cell expansion during activation without consuming their limited replicative potential.

  18. Strategies for dephenolization of raw olive mill wastewater by means of Pleurotus ostreatus.

    PubMed

    Olivieri, Giuseppe; Russo, Maria Elena; Giardina, Paola; Marzocchella, Antonio; Sannia, Giovanni; Salatino, Piero

    2012-05-01

    The reduction of polyphenols content in olive mill wastewater (OMW) is a major issue in olive oil manufacturing. Although researchers have pointed out the potential of white-rot fungus in dephenolizing OMW, the results available in the literature mainly concern pretreated (sterilized) OMW. This paper deals with the reduction of polyphenols content in untreated OMW by means of a white-rot fungus, Pleurotus ostreatus. Dephenolization was performed both in an airlift bioreactor and in aerated flasks. The process was carried out under controlled non-sterile conditions, with different operating configurations (batch, continuous, biomass recycling) representative of potential industrial operations. Total organic carbon, polyphenols concentration, phenol oxidase activity, dissolved oxygen concentration, oxygen consumption rate, and pH were measured during every run. Tests were carried out with or without added nutrients (potato starch and potato dextrose) and laccases inducers (i.e., CuSO₄). OMW endogenous microorganisms were competing with P. ostreatus for oxygen during simultaneous fermentation. Dephenolization of raw OMW by P. ostreatus under single batch was as large as 70%. Dephenolization was still extensive even when biomass was recycled up to six times. OMW pre-aeration had to be provided under continuous operation to avoid oxygen consumption by endogenous microorganisms that might spoil the process. The role of laccases in the dephenolization process has been discussed. Dephenolization under batch conditions with biomass recycling and added nutrients proved to be the most effective configuration for OMW polyphenols reduction in industrial plants (42-68% for five cycles).

  19. Effects of TiO2 nanoparticles on the aquatic plant Spirodela polyrrhiza: Evaluation of growth parameters, pigment contents and antioxidant enzyme activities.

    PubMed

    Movafeghi, Ali; Khataee, Alireza; Abedi, Mahboubeh; Tarrahi, Roshanak; Dadpour, Mohammadreza; Vafaei, Fatemeh

    2018-02-01

    Plants are essential components of all ecosystems and play a critical role in environmental fate of nanoparticles. However, the toxicological impacts of nanoparticles on plants are not well documented. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 -NPs) are produced worldwide in large quantities for a wide range of purposes. In the present study, the uptake of TiO 2 -NPs by the aquatic plant Spirodela polyrrhiza and the consequent effects on the plant were evaluated. Initially, structural and morphological characteristics of the used TiO 2 -NPs were determined using XRD, SEM, TEM and BET techniques. As a result, an anatase structure with the average crystalline size of 8nm was confirmed for the synthesized TiO 2 -NPs. Subsequently, entrance of TiO 2 -NP S to plant roots was verified by fluorescence microscopic images. Activity of a number of antioxidant enzymes, as well as, changes in growth parameters and photosynthetic pigment contents as physiological indices were assessed to investigate the effects of TiO 2 -NPs on S. polyrrhiza. The increasing concentration of TiO 2 -NPs led to the significant decrease in all of the growth parameters and changes in antioxidant enzyme activities. The activity of superoxide dismutase enhanced significantly by the increasing concentration of TiO 2 -NPs. Enhancement of superoxide dismutase activity could be explained as promoting antioxidant system to scavenging the reactive oxygen species. In contrast, the activity of peroxidase was notably decreased in the treated plants. Reduced peroxidase activity could be attributed to either direct effect of these particles on the molecular structure of the enzyme or plant defense system damage due to reactive oxygen species. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.

  20. Dephosphorylation of 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate by MIPP expands the regulatory capacity of the Rapoport-Luebering glycolytic shunt.

    PubMed

    Cho, Jaiesoon; King, Jason S; Qian, Xun; Harwood, Adrian J; Shears, Stephen B

    2008-04-22

    The Rapoport-Luebering glycolytic bypass comprises evolutionarily conserved reactions that generate and dephosphorylate 2,3-bisphosphoglycerate (2,3-BPG). For >30 years, these reactions have been considered the responsibility of a single enzyme, the 2,3-BPG synthase/2-phosphatase (BPGM). Here, we show that Dictyostelium, birds, and mammals contain an additional 2,3-BPG phosphatase that, unlike BPGM, removes the 3-phosphate. This discovery reveals that the glycolytic pathway can bypass the formation of 3-phosphoglycerate, which is a precursor for serine biosynthesis and an activator of AMP-activated protein kinase. Our 2,3-BPG phosphatase activity is encoded by the previously identified gene for multiple inositol polyphosphate phosphatase (MIPP1), which we now show to have dual substrate specificity. By genetically manipulating Mipp1 expression in Dictyostelium, we demonstrated that this enzyme provides physiologically relevant regulation of cellular 2,3-BPG content. Mammalian erythrocytes possess the highest content of 2,3-BPG, which controls oxygen binding to hemoglobin. We determined that total MIPP1 activity in erythrocytes at 37 degrees C is 0.6 mmol 2,3-BPG hydrolyzed per liter of cells per h, matching previously published estimates of the phosphatase activity of BPGM. MIPP1 is active at 4 degrees C, revealing a clinically significant contribution to 2,3-BPG loss during the storage of erythrocytes for transfusion. Hydrolysis of 2,3-BPG by human MIPP1 is sensitive to physiologic alkalosis; activity decreases 50% when pH rises from 7.0 to 7.4. This phenomenon provides a homeostatic mechanism for elevating 2,3-BPG levels, thereby enhancing oxygen release to tissues. Our data indicate greater biological significance of the Rapoport-Luebering shunt than previously considered.

  1. Alleviation of cadmium toxicity to Cole (Brassica campestris L. Cruciferae) by exogenous glutathione

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Jun; Huang, Bin; Chen, Xin; Shi, Yi

    2017-04-01

    In this study, we determined the influence of exogenous GSH on cadmium toxicity to cole. GSH addition had beneficial effect on plant development and growth, especially on aboveground biomass and root length. Despite that exogenous GSH insignificantly promoted Cd uptake by the plant, it could decrease of Cd root-to-shoot transport and ameliorate Cd toxicity to the plant. At 6 mg Cd kg-1 soil, GSH addition well countered the Cd-induced significant reduction in CAT activity, but only insignificantly decreased MDA content, suggesting exogenous GSH might indirectly protect plant against oxidative stress via regulating antioxidative enzyme activities. However, at 12 mg Cd kg-1 soil, GSH application insignificantly increased the antioxidant activities but significantly decreased MDA content, indicating external GSH could directly participate in removing radical oxygen species. The results suggest exogenous GSH may have the potential of decreasing Cd accumulation in the edible parts of cultivars and alleviating Cd toxicity.

  2. Antioxidant enzyme and osmotic adjustment changes in bean seedlings as affected by biochar under salt stress.

    PubMed

    Farhangi-Abriz, Salar; Torabian, Shahram

    2017-03-01

    Salinity damaged cellular membranes through overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), while osmolytes and antioxidant capacities play a vital role in protecting plants from salinity caused oxidative damages. Biochar also could alleviate the negative impacts of salt stress in crops. The pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of biochar on some antioxidant enzyme activities and osmolyte adjustments of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. cv. Derakhshan) under salinity stress. Bean plants were subjected to three salinity levels (non-saline, 6 and 12 dSm -1 of NaCl) and biochar treatments (non-biochar, 10% and 20% total pot mass). Shoot and root dry weights of bean were decreased at two salt stress treatments. Salinity increased the activity of catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA), oxygen radicals (O 2•- ), and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) in leaf and root compared to control. Additionally, increased magnitudes of proline, glycine betaine, soluble sugar and soluble protein contents were more pronounced under 12 dSm -1 NaCl than those under 6 dSm -1 NaCl. In contrast, biochar applied to soil enhanced the shoot and root dry weight in comparison with the non-biochar treatment. Furthermore, all of the antioxidant activities of seedlings in soil treated with biochar, particularly at 20% biochar, declined. With the addition of biochar, the contents of MDA, O 2•- and H 2 O 2 displayed remarkable decrease, and the osmotic substances accumulation in leaves and roots also reduced. The presented results supported the view that biochar can contribute to protect common bean seedlings against NaCl stress by alleviating the oxidative stress. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. Effects of storage and cooking on the antioxidant capacity of laying hen eggs.

    PubMed

    Nimalaratne, Chamila; Schieber, Andreas; Wu, Jianping

    2016-03-01

    The aromatic amino acids and carotenoids are the major contributors to the antioxidant properties of egg yolk. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of simulated retail storage and domestic cooking on the antioxidant activity as well as on the aromatic amino acid and carotenoid contents in ordinary table eggs, omega 3/lutein (n-3/lutein) enriched eggs, and eggs from heritage chicken breeds. The oxygen radical scavenging capacity (ORAC) was the highest in n-3/lutein enriched eggs (161.4μmolTE/gsample), while eggs from heritage white leghorns (HW) showed the lowest levels (127.6μmolTE/gsample). Six weeks of storage at refrigerated temperature did not change the ORAC values, as well as the contents of free amino acid, carotenoid, and malondialdehyde (MDA) in egg yolk. Boiling and frying however, significantly reduced the ORAC value, and the contents of free amino acid, lutein and zeaxanthin, and increased the MDA content in eggs. Our results showed that the antioxidant activity is stable during six weeks of simulated retail storage. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Monte Carlo analysis of the oxygen knock-on effects induced by synchrotron x-ray radiation in the B i2S r2CaC u2O8 +δ superconductor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Torsello, Daniele; Mino, Lorenzo; Bonino, Valentina; Agostino, Angelo; Operti, Lorenza; Borfecchia, Elisa; Vittone, Ettore; Lamberti, Carlo; Truccato, Marco

    2018-01-01

    We investigate the microscopic mechanism responsible for the change of macroscopic electrical properties of the B i2S r2CaC u2O8 +δ high-temperature superconductor induced by intense synchrotron hard x-ray beams. The possible effects of secondary electrons on the oxygen content via the knock-on interaction are studied by Monte Carlo simulations. The change in the oxygen content expected from the knock-on model is computed convoluting the fluence of photogenerated electrons in the material with the Seitz-Koehler cross section. This approach has been adopted to analyze several experimental irradiation sessions with increasing x-ray fluences. A close comparison between the expected variations in oxygen content and the experimental results allows determining the irradiation regime in which the knock-on mechanism can satisfactorily explain the observed changes. Finally, we estimate the threshold displacement energy of loosely bound oxygen atoms in this material Td=0 .15-0.01+0.025eV .

  5. Resistance of Bacillus subtilis Spore DNA to Lethal Ionizing Radiation Damage Relies Primarily on Spore Core Components and DNA Repair, with Minor Effects of Oxygen Radical Detoxification

    PubMed Central

    Raguse, Marina; Reitz, Günther; Okayasu, Ryuichi; Li, Zuofeng; Klein, Stuart; Setlow, Peter; Nicholson, Wayne L.

    2014-01-01

    The roles of various core components, including α/β/γ-type small acid-soluble spore proteins (SASP), dipicolinic acid (DPA), core water content, and DNA repair by apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) endonucleases or nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ), in Bacillus subtilis spore resistance to different types of ionizing radiation including X rays, protons, and high-energy charged iron ions have been studied. Spores deficient in DNA repair by NHEJ or AP endonucleases, the oxidative stress response, or protection by major α/β-type SASP, DPA, and decreased core water content were significantly more sensitive to ionizing radiation than wild-type spores, with highest sensitivity to high-energy-charged iron ions. DNA repair via NHEJ and AP endonucleases appears to be the most important mechanism for spore resistance to ionizing radiation, whereas oxygen radical detoxification via the MrgA-mediated oxidative stress response or KatX catalase activity plays only a very minor role. Synergistic radioprotective effects of α/β-type but not γ-type SASP were also identified, indicating that α/β-type SASP's binding to spore DNA is important in preventing DNA damage due to reactive oxygen species generated by ionizing radiation. PMID:24123749

  6. Nitrogen-enriched hierarchically porous carbons prepared from polybenzoxazine for high-performance supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    Wan, Liu; Wang, Jianlong; Xie, Lijing; Sun, Yahui; Li, Kaixi

    2014-09-10

    Nitrogen-enriched hierarchically porous carbons (HPCs) were synthesized from a novel nitrile-functionalized benzoxazine based on benzoxazine chemistry using a soft-templating method and a potassium hydroxide (KOH) chemical activation method and used as electrode materials for supercapacitors. The textural and chemical properties could be easily tuned by adding a soft template and changing the activation temperature. The introduction of the soft-templating agent (surfactant F127) resulted in the formation of mesopores, which facilitated fast ionic diffusion and reduced the internal resistance. The micropores of HPCs were extensively developed by KOH activation to provide large electrochemical double-layer capacitance. As the activation temperature increased from 600 to 800 °C, the specific surface area of nitrogen-enriched carbons increased dramatically, micropores were enlarged, and more meso/macropores were developed, but the nitrogen and oxygen content decreased, which affected the electrochemical performance. The sample HPC-800 activated at 800 °C possesses a high specific surface area (1555.4 m(2) g(-1)), high oxygen (10.61 wt %) and nitrogen (3.64 wt %) contents, a hierarchical pore structure, a high graphitization degree, and good electrical conductivity. It shows great pseudocapacitance and the largest specific capacitance of 641.6 F g(-1) at a current density of 1 A g(-1) in a 6 mol L(-1) KOH aqueous electrolyte when measured in a three-electrode system. Furthermore, the HPC-800 electrode exhibits excellent rate capability (443.0 F g(-1) remained at 40 A g(-1)) and good cycling stability (94.3% capacitance retention over 5000 cycles).

  7. Boosting Bifunctional Oxygen Electrolysis for N-Doped Carbon via Bimetal Addition.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jian; Ciucci, Francesco

    2017-04-01

    The addition of transition metals, even in a trace amount, into heteroatom-doped carbon (M-N/C) is intensively investigated to further enhance oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity. However, the influence of metal decoration on the electrolysis of the reverse reaction of ORR, that is, oxygen evolution reaction (OER), is seldom reported. Moreover, further improving the bifunctional activity and corrosion tolerance for carbon-based materials remains a big challenge, especially in OER potential regions. Here, bimetal-decorated, pyridinic N-dominated large-size carbon tubes (MM'-N/C) are proposed for the first time as highly efficient and durable ORR and OER catalysts. FeFe-N/C, CoCo-N/C, NiNi-N/C, MnMn-N/C, FeCo-N/C, NiFe-N/C, FeMn-N/C, CoNi-N/C, MnCo-N/C, and NiMn-N/C are systematically investigated in terms of their structure, composition, morphology, surface area, and active site densities. In contrast to conventional monometal and N-decorated carbon, small amounts of bimetal (≈2 at%) added during the one-step template-free synthesis contribute to increased pyridinic N content, much longer and more robust carbon tubes, reduced metal particle size, and stronger coupling between the encapsulated metals and carbon support. The synergy of those factors accounts for the dramatically improved ORR and OER activity and stability. By comparison, NiFe-N/C and MnCo-N/C stand out and achieve superior bifunctional oxygen catalytic performance, exceeding most of state-of-the-art catalysts. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. Ambient effect on thermal stability of amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xu, Jianeng; Wu, Qi; Xu, Ling; Xie, Haiting; Liu, Guochao; Zhang, Lei; Dong, Chengyuan

    2016-12-01

    The thermal stability of amorphous InGaZnO thin film transistors (a-IGZO TFTs) with various ambient gases was investigated. The a-IGZO TFTs in air were more thermally stable than the devices in the ambient argon. Oxygen, rather than nitrogen and moisture, was responsible for this improvement. Furthermore, the thermal stability of the a-IGZO TFTs improved with the increasing oxygen content in the surrounding atmosphere. The related physical mechanism was examined, indicating that the higher ambient oxygen content induced more combinations of the oxygen vacancies and adsorbed oxygen ions in the a-IGZO, which resulted in the larger defect formation energy. This larger defect formation energy led to the smaller variation in the threshold voltage for the corresponding TFT devices.

  9. Antioxidant and anti-ageing activities of citrus-based juice mixture.

    PubMed

    Kim, Dan-Bi; Shin, Gi-Hae; Kim, Jae-Min; Kim, Young-Hyun; Lee, Jin-Ha; Lee, Jong Seok; Song, Hye-Jin; Choe, Soo Young; Park, In-Jae; Cho, Ju-Hyun; Lee, Ok-Hawn

    2016-03-01

    The production of excessive reactive oxygen species by exposure to oxidative stress and solar radiation are primary factors in skin damage. We examined the effects of a citrus-based juice mixture and its bioactive compounds on antioxidant and anti-ageing activities in human dermal fibroblasts and hairless mice via the regulation of antioxidant enzymes and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. The citrus-based juice mixture reduced H2O2-induced cell damage and intracellular reactive oxygen species production in human dermal fibroblasts. Citrus-based juice mixture pretreatment suppressed the activation of the H2O2-mediated mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway by activating the expression of activator protein 1 and matrix metalloproteinases. Moreover, it increased the expression levels of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase, catalase and manganese superoxide dismutase. In addition, oral administration of the citrus-based juice mixture decreased skin thickness and wrinkle formation and increased collagen content on an ultraviolet light B-exposed hairless mouse. These results indicate that the citrus-based juice mixture is a potentially healthy beverage for the prevention of oxidative stress-induced premature skin ageing. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Effects of Pectic Polysaccharides Isolated from Leek on the Production of Reactive Oxygen and Nitrogen Species by Phagocytes

    PubMed Central

    Nikolova, Mariana; Ambrozova, Gabriela; Kratchanova, Maria; Denev, Petko; Kussovski, Veselin; Ciz, Milan

    2013-01-01

    Abstract The current survey investigates the effect of four polysaccharides isolated from fresh leek or alcohol insoluble substances (AIS) of leek on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) from phagocytes. The ability of the polysaccharides to activate serum complement was also investigated. Despite the lack of antioxidant activity, the pectic polysaccharides significantly decreased the production of ROS by human neutrophils. Polysaccharides isolated from AIS markedly activated RAW 264.7 macrophages for RNS production in a concentration-dependent manner. The Western blot analysis revealed that this effect was due to the stimulation of the inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression of macrophages. The polysaccharides extracted from AIS with water showed the ability to fix serum complement, especially through the alternative pathway. It was found that the polysaccharide that has the highest complement-fixing effect is characterized by the highest content of uronic acids and the highest molecular weight. PMID:23905651

  11. Ultrasonic pretreatment effects on the co-pyrolysis of municipal solid waste and paper sludge through orthogonal test.

    PubMed

    Fang, Shiwen; Gu, Wenlu; Chen, Lin; Yu, Zhaosheng; Dai, Minquan; Lin, Yan; Liao, Yanfen; Ma, Xiaoqian

    2018-06-01

    In this study, the influences of ultrasonic pretreatment factors (frequency, power, treatment time) on blends of municipal solid waste (MSW) and paper sludge (PS) with additive (MgO) was explored, through orthogonal experiments design. The optimum operating condition wanted to be acquired. However, for the ultimate (H/C) and ash analysis after pretreatment, solid residue mass and oxygenates compounds contents in products, the influences of factors were in different results. With adding PS unceasingly, the contents of hydrocarbon compounds decreased. And the ultrasonic pretreatment had the obvious influence with high PS percentage. Longer treatment time resulted to the lower content of oxygenates compounds. After adding MgO, the residue mass reduced, which meant MgO had the catalytic action, and the oxygenates compounds content reduced only with 100 kHz, which had the sonochemical effect. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  12. Correlation between nano-scale microstructural behavior and the performance of ZnO thin-film transistors.

    PubMed

    Ahn, Cheol Hyoun; Lee, Ju Ho; Lee, Jeong Yong; Cho, Hyung Koun

    2014-12-01

    Binary ZnO active layers possessing a polycrystalline structure were deposited with various argon/oxygen flow ratios at 250 degrees C via sputtering. Then ZnO thin-film-transistors (TFTs) were fabricated without additional thermal treatments. As the oxygen content increased during the deposition, the preferred orientation along the (0002) was weakened and the rotation of the grains increased, and furthermore, less conducting films were observed. On the other hand, the reduced oxygen flow rate induced the formation of amorphous-like transition layers during the initial growth due to a high growth rate and high energetic bombardment of the adatoms. As a result, the amorphous phases at the gate dielectric/channel interface were responsible for the formation of a hump shape in the subthreshold region of the TFT transfer curve. In addition, the relationship between the crystal properties and the shift in the threshold voltage was experimentally confirmed by a hysteresis test.

  13. ORAC and DPPH assay comparison to assess antioxidant capacity of tea infusions: relationship between total polyphenol and individual catechin content.

    PubMed

    Roy, Molay K; Koide, Motoki; Rao, Theertham P; Okubo, Tsutomu; Ogasawara, Yutaka; Juneja, Lekh R

    2010-03-01

    Commercially available tea infusions are the major source of catechins for preparing bottled tea beverages and tea supplements available in the market today. In the present study, we analyzed five tea infusions to measure the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) by oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging capacity (DRSC) assays, total polyphenol content by the colorimetric method and individual catechin content by high-performance liquid chromatography. Four major tea catechins were also analyzed for their TAC to reveal differential antioxidant behavior of the tea infusions, resulting in the ORAC and DRSC methods. The correlation coefficients between DRSC and the total polyphenol or total catechin content of the tea infusions were 1.0 and 0.99. However, the values fall to 0.73 and 0.69, respectively, while the ORAC activity was correlated with total polyphenol and total catechin content. Determining the TAC of individual tea catechins showed that ORAC of epicatechin was seven-fold higher than that of epigallocatechin gallate; on the contrary, epigallocatechin gallate showed significantly (P < 0.05) stronger DRSC activity than epicatechin. By evaluating the structure-activity relationship, this study further revealed that OH substitution at the 3' position in pyrogallol moieties contributes to the lower ORAC value of epigallocatechin and epigallocatechin gallate comparing with their non-3'-OH counterparts, such as epicatechin and epicatechin gallate, respectively. Also, numbers of OH substitutions were poorly correlated with the observed ORAC value unlike the DRSC. Overall, results of this study enabled us to hypothesize that substances having a lower TAC value in the ORAC assay compared with that in DPPH assays may pertain to a pro-oxidant effect by generating reactive oxygen species in an aqueous buffer, at a physiological pH. We also propose that substances exhibiting lower TAC value in the ORAC assay compared with that in the DPPH assay are powerful pro-oxidants compared with the substances showing a higher TAC value in the ORAC assay than that in the DPPH assay.

  14. Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Twenty-Four Vitis vinifera Grapes

    PubMed Central

    Liang, Zhenchang; Cheng, Lailiang; Zhong, Gan-Yuan; Liu, Rui Hai

    2014-01-01

    Grapes are rich in phytochemicals with many proven health benefits. Phenolic profiles, antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of twenty-four selected Vitis vinifera grape cultivars were investigated in this study. Large ranges of variation were found in these cultivars for the contents of total phenolics (95.3 to 686.5 mg/100 g) and flavonoids (94.7 to 1055 mg/100 g) and antioxidant activities (oxygen radical absorbance capacity 378.7 to 3386.0 mg of Trolox equivalents/100 g and peroxylradical scavenging capacity14.2 to 557 mg of vitamin C equivalents/100 g), cellular antioxidant activities (3.9 to 139.9 µmol of quercetin equivalents/100 g without PBS wash and 1.4 to 95.8 µmol of quercetin equivalents /100 g with PBS wash) and antiproliferative activities (25 to 82% at the concentrations of 100 mg/mL extracts).The total antioxidant activities were significantly correlated with the total phenolics and flavonoids. However, no significant correlations were found between antiproliferative activities and total phenolics or total flavonoids content. Wine grapes and color grapes showed much higher levels of phytochemicals and antioxidant activities than table grapes and green/yellow grapes. Several germplasm accessions with much high contents of phenolics and flavonoids, and total antioxidant activity were identified. These germplasm can be valuable sources of genes for breeding grape cultivars with better nutritional qualities of wine and table grapes in the future. PMID:25133401

  15. Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of the essential oils from flower, leaf and stem of Ferula cupularis growing wild in Iran.

    PubMed

    Alipour, Ziba; Taheri, Poroshat; Samadi, Nasrin

    2015-04-01

    Ferula cupularis (Boiss.) Spalik et S. R. Downie (Apiaceae) is a common plant in Iran that grows in the foothills of Dena Mountain. In traditional folk medicine, this plant has different applications, but there are no studies proving their uses. This study is the first attempt to investigate the chemical composition and antibacterial effect of the essential oils of F. cupularis. The essential oils from flower, leaf, and stem of F. cupularis were analyzed by using GC and GC-MS. Antibacterial activity of essential oils was determined by microdilution method against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The essential oil from flower of F. cupularis contained 15 monoterpene, 13 oxygenated monoterpene, and 2 sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. The leaf essential oil contained 12 monoterpene, 13 oxygenated monoterpene, 2 sesquiterpene, 6 oxygenated sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, and 3 non-terpenoid components. Stem essential oil contained one monoterpene, 23 oxygenated monoterpene, 2 sesquiterpene, and 6 oxygenated sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. The MIC value of stem essential oil was 2.85 mg/mL against both Gram-positive bacteria and Gram-negative bacteria except P. aeruginosa which was inhibited at 22.75 mg/mL. The MIC values of leaf and flower essential oils were higher than 5.69 and 22.75 mg/mL, respectively. This study highlighted the strong antibacterial effect of Ferula cupularis's essential oil which might be due to its high content of oxygenated monoterpene hydrocarbons. Our results suggested that this plant may be a good candidate for further biological and pharmacological investigations.

  16. Influence of gold content on copper oxidation from silver-gold-copper alloys

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Swinbourne, D. R.; Barbante, G. G.; Strahan, A.

    1996-10-01

    In the final stages of the smelting of copper anode slimes, a silver alloy, known as “doré,” is produced. Oxidation refining is used to remove copper since this element interferes with subsequent electroparting of the small amounts of gold and platinum group metals in the doré. The gold content of doré can be greatly increased by gold scrap additions and this may affect the minimum achievable copper content of doré. In this work, silver-gold-copper alloys were oxidized by injecting pure oxygen at 1100 °C in the absence of any slag cover. For the gold contents expected in practice, the equilibrium copper content of the doré did not increase significantly as the gold content increased. However, at the other extreme of composition, the equilibrium copper content was a very strong function of the silver content of the gold bullion. The activity coefficient of copper in silver-gold alloys was calculated and compared to those predicted from a ternary subregular solution model of the system Ag-Au-Cu. Satisfactory agreement was found.

  17. Bifunctional Nitrogen-Doped Microporous Carbon Microspheres Derived from Poly(o-methylaniline) for Oxygen Reduction and Supercapacitors.

    PubMed

    He, Yanzhen; Han, Xijiang; Du, Yunchen; Song, Bo; Xu, Ping; Zhang, Bin

    2016-02-17

    Heteroatom-doped carbon materials have attracted significant attention because of their applications in oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and supercapacitors. Here we demonstrate a facile poly(o-methylaniline)-derived fabrication of bifunctional microporous nitrogen-doped carbon microspheres (NCMSs) with high electrocatalytic activity and stability for ORR and energy storage in supercapacitors. At a pyrolysis temperature of 900 °C, the highly dispersed NCMSs present a high surface area (727.1 m(2) g(-1)), proper total content of doping N, and high concentration of quaternary N, which exhibit superior electrocatalytic activities for ORR to the commercial Pt/C catalysts, high specific capacitance (414 F g(-1)), and excellent durability, making them very promising for advanced energy conversion and storage. The presented conducting polymer-derived strategy may provide a new way for the fabrication of heteroatom-doped carbon materials for energy device applications.

  18. Uric acid-derived Fe3C-containing mesoporous Fe/N/C composite with high activity for oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline medium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ma, Jun; Xiao, Dejian; Chen, Chang Li; Luo, Qiaomei; Yu, Yue; Zhou, Junhao; Guo, Changding; Li, Kai; Ma, Jie; Zheng, Lirong; Zuo, Xia

    2018-02-01

    In this work, a category of Fe3C-containing Fe/N/C mesoporous material has been fabricated by carbonizing the mixture of uric acid, Iron (Ⅲ) chloride anhydrous and carbon support (XC-72) under different pyrolysis temperature. Of all these samples, pyrolysis temperature (800 °C) becomes the most crucial factor in forming Fe3C active sites which synergizes with high content of graphitic N to catalyze oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy (XAFS) is used to exhibit that the space structure around Fe atoms in the catalyst. This kind of catalyst possesses comparable ORR properties with commercial 20% Pt/C (onset potential is 0 V vs. Ag/AgCl in 0.1 M KOH), the average transfer electron number is 3.84 reflecting the 4-electron process. Moreover, superior stability and methanol tolerance deserve to be mentioned.

  19. In vitro evaluation of free radical scavenging activity of Codariocalyx motorius root extract.

    PubMed

    Chidambaram, Uma; Pachamuthu, Vanitha; Natarajan, Suganya; Elango, Bhakkiyalakshmi; Suriyanarayanan; Ramkumar, Kunga Mohan

    2013-03-01

    To determine the phenolic content in Codariocalyx motorius root extract and to evaluate its antioxidant properties using various in vitro assay systems. The antioxidant activity was evaluated based on scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl, hydroxyl radicals, superoxide anions, nitric oxide, hydrogen peroxide, peroxynitrite, reducing power and by inhibition of lipid peroxidation which was estimated in terms of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances. The root extract of the Codariocalyx motorius (C. motorius) exhibited potent total antioxidant activity that increased with increasing amount of extract concentration, which was compared with standard drug such as quercetin, butylated hydroxytoluene, tocopherol at different concentrations. The different concentrations of the extracts showed inhibition on lipid peroxidation. In addition, the extracts had effective reducing power, free radical scavenging, super oxide anion scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging, lipid peroxidation, and total phenolic content depending on concentration. High correlation between total phenolic contents and scavenging potential of different reactive oxygen species (r(2)=0.831-0.978) indicated the polyphenols as the main antioxidants. Codariocalyx motorius (C. motorius) root possess the highly active antioxidant substance which can be used for the treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases. Copyright © 2013 Hainan Medical College. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. Sympathetic neural overactivity in healthy humans after prolonged exposure to hypobaric hypoxia

    PubMed Central

    Hansen, Jim; Sander, Mikael

    2003-01-01

    Acute exposure to hypoxia causes chemoreflex activation of the sympathetic nervous system. During acclimatization to high altitude hypoxia, arterial oxygen content recovers, but it is unknown to what degree sympathetic activation is maintained or normalized during prolonged exposure to hypoxia. We therefore measured sympathetic nerve activity directly by peroneal microneurography in eight healthy volunteers (24 ± 2 years of age) after 4 weeks at an altitude of 5260 m (Chacaltaya, Bolivian Andes) and at sea level (Copenhagen). The subjects acclimatized well to altitude, but in every subject sympathetic nerve activity was highly elevated at altitude vs. sea level (48 ± 5 vs. 16 ± 3 bursts min−1, respectively, P < 0.05), coinciding with increased mean arterial blood pressure (87 ± 3 vs. 77 ± 2 mmHg, respectively, P < 0.05). To examine the underlying mechanisms, we administered oxygen (to eliminate chemoreflex activation) and saline (to reduce cardiopulmonary baroreflex deactivation). These interventions had minor effects on sympathetic activity (48 ± 5 vs. 38 ± 4 bursts min−1, control vs. oxygen + saline, respectively, P < 0.05). Moreover, sympathetic activity was still markedly elevated (37 ± 5 bursts min−1) when subjects were re-studied under normobaric, normoxic and hypervolaemic conditions 3 days after return to sea level. In conclusion, acclimatization to high altitude hypoxia is accompanied by a striking and long-lasting sympathetic overactivity. Surprisingly, chemoreflex activation by hypoxia and baroreflex deactivation by dehydration together could account for only a small part of this response, leaving the major underlying mechanisms unexplained. PMID:12563015

  1. Evaluation of Characteristic Energy Scales of Pressure Stabilized Oxygen Chain States in YBa2Cu3Ox Films

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-03-14

    2], and [4]. In the case of YBa2Cu3O∇x, the application of sufficient uniaxial pressure results in the film having discrete regions of uniform...that discrete regions of uniform oxygen content are stabilized where x ≈ [6, 6.5, 6.72, 6.81, 7]. The latter four oxygen content levels correspond to...associated energy levels of the stabilized lattice states ᝺>, �>, >, and ə>, and find evidence for discrete energy levels of the pressure

  2. Effect of altitude on oxygen binding by hemoglobin and on organic phosphate levels

    PubMed Central

    Lenfant, Claude; Torrance, John; English, Eugenia; Finch, Clement A.; Reynafarje, Cesar; Ramos, Jose; Faura, Jose

    1968-01-01

    The relationship between oxygen dissociation and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) in the red cell has been studied in subjects moving from low to high altitude and vice versa. Within 24 hr following the change in altitude there was a change in hemoglobin affinity for oxygen; this modification therefore represents an important rapid adaptive mechanism to anoxia. A parallel change occurred in the organic phosphate content of the red cell. While this study does not provide direct evidence of a cause-effect relationship, the data strongly suggest that with anoxia, the observed rise in organic phosphate content of the red cell is responsible for increased availability of oxygen to tissues. Images PMID:5725278

  3. The distribution of chromium among orthopyroxene, spinel and silicate liquid at atmospheric pressure

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Barnes, S. J.

    1986-01-01

    The Cr distributions for a synthetic silicate melt equilibrated with bronzitic orthopyroxene and chromite spinel between 1334 and 1151 C over a range of oxygen fugacities between the nickel-nickel oxide and iron-wuestite buffers are studied. The occurrence, chemical composition, and structure of the orthopyroxene-silicate melt and the spinel-silicate melt are described. It is observed that the Cr content between bronzite and the melt increases with falling temperature along a given oxygen buffer and decreases with falling oxygen fugacity at a given temperature; however, the Cr content of the melt in equilibrium with spinel decreases with falling temperature and increases with lower oxygen fugacity.

  4. The morphology, physiology and nutritional quality of lettuce grown under hypobaria and hypoxia

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tang, Yongkang; Gao, Feng; Guo, Shuangsheng; Li, Fang

    2015-07-01

    The objectives of this research were to investigate the morphological, physiological and nutritional characteristics of lettuce plants (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Rome) under hypobaric and hypoxic conditions. Plants were grown under two levels of total pressures (101 and 30 kPa) and three levels of oxygen partial pressures (21, 6 and 2 kPa) for 20 days. Hypoxia (6 or 2 kPa) not only significantly inhibited the growth of lettuce plants by decreasing biomass, leaf area, root/shoot ratio, water content, the contents of minerals and organic compounds (vitamin C, crude protein and crude fat), but also destroyed the ultrastructure of mitochondria and chloroplast. The activities of catalase and total superoxide dismutase, the contents of glutathione and the total antioxidant capacity significantly decreased due to hypoxia. Hypobaria (30 kPa) did not markedly enhance the biomass, but it increased leaf area, root/shoot ratio and relative water content. Hypobaria also decreased the contents of total phenols, malondialdehyde and total carbohydrate and protected the ultrastructure of mitochondria and chloroplast under hypoxia. Furthermore, the activities of catalase and total superoxide dismutase, the contents of minerals and organic compounds markedly increased under hypobaria. This study demonstrates that hypobaria (30 kPa) does not increase the growth of lettuce plants, but it enhances plant's stress resistance and nutritional quality under hypoxia.

  5. A modified procedure for measuring oxygen-18 content of nitrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahmed, M. A.; Aly, A. I. M.; Abdel Monem, N.; Hanafy, M.; Gomaa, H. E.

    2012-11-01

    SummaryMass spectrometric analysis of O-isotopic composition of nitrate has many potential applications in studies of environmental processes. Through this work, rapid, reliable, precise, broadly applicable, catalyst-free, low-priced and less labor intensive procedure for measuring δ18O of nitrate using Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer has been developed and implemented. The conditions necessary to effect complete nitrate recovery and complete removal of other oxygen containing anions and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) without scarifying the isotopic signature of nitrate were investigated. The developed procedure consists of two main parts: (1) wet chemistry train for extraction and purification of nitrate from the liquid matrix; (2) off-line pyrolysis of extracted nitrate salt with activated graphite at 550 °C for 30 min. The conditions necessary to effect complete nitrate recovery and complete removal of other oxygen containing compounds were investigated. Dramatic reduction in processing times needed for analysis of δ18O of nitrate at natural abundance level was achieved. Preservation experiments revealed that chloroform (99.8%) is an effective preservative. Isotopic contents of some selected nitrate salts were measured using the modified procedure and some other well established methods at two laboratories in Egypt and Germany. Performance assessment of the whole developed analytical train was made using internationally distributed nitrate isotopes reference materials and real world sample of initial zero-nitrate content. The uncertainty budget was evaluated using the graphical nested hierarchal approach. The obtained results proved the suitability for handling samples of complicated matrices. Reduction of consumables cost by about 80% was achieved.

  6. Biodegradability of fluorinated fire-fighting foams in water.

    PubMed

    Bourgeois, A; Bergendahl, J; Rangwala, A

    2015-07-01

    Fluorinated fire-fighting foams may be released into the environment during fire-fighting activities, raising concerns due to the potential environmental and health impacts for some fluorinated organics. The current study investigated (1) the biodegradability of three fluorinated fire-fighting foams, and (2) the applicability of current standard measures used to assess biodegradability of fluorinated fire-fighting foams. The biodegradability of three fluorinated fire-fighting foams was evaluated using a 28-day dissolved organic carbon (DOC) Die-Away Test. It was found that all three materials, diluted in water, achieved 77-96% biodegradability, meeting the criteria for "ready biodegradability". Defluorination of the fluorinated organics in the foam during biodegradation was measured using ion chromatography. It was found that the fluorine liberated was 1-2 orders of magnitude less than the estimated initial amount, indicating incomplete degradation of fluorinated organics, and incomplete CF bond breakage. Published biodegradability data may utilize biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total organic carbon (TOC) metrics to quantify organics. COD and TOC of four fluorinated compounds were measured and compared to the calculated carbon content or theoretical oxygen demand. It was found that the standard dichromate-based COD test did not provide an accurate measure of fluorinated organic content. Thus published biodegradability data using COD for fluorinated organics quantification must be critically evaluated for validity. The TOC measurements correlated to an average of 91% of carbon content for the four fluorinated test substances, and TOC is recommended for use as an analytical parameter in fluorinated organics biodegradability tests. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Neuroglobin Overexpression Inhibits AMPK Signaling and Promotes Cell Anabolism

    PubMed Central

    Cai, Bin; Li, Wenjun; Mao, XiaoOu; Winters, Ali; Ryou, Myoung-Gwi; Liu, Ran; Greenberg, David A.; Wang, Ning; Jin, Kunlin; Yang, Shao-Hua

    2017-01-01

    Neuroglobin (Ngb) is a recently discovered globin with preferential localization to neurons. Growing evidence indicates that Ngb has distinct physiological functions separate from the oxygen storage and transport roles of other globins, such as hemoglobin and myoglobin. We found increased ATP production and decreased glycolysis in Ngb-overexpressing immortalized murine hippocampal cell line (HT-22), in parallel with inhibition of AMPK signaling and activation of acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). In addition, lipid and glycogen content was increased in Ngb-overexpressing HT-22 cells. AMPK signaling was also inhibited in brain and heart from Ngb-overexpressing transgenic mice. Although Ngb overexpression did not change glycogen content in whole brain, glycogen synthase was activated in cortical neurons of Ngb overexpressing mouse brain and Ngb overexpression primary neurons. Moreover, lipid and glycogen content was increased in hearts derived from Ngb-overexpressing mice. These findings suggest that Ngb functions as a metabolic regulator and enhances cellular anabolism through the inhibition of AMPK signaling. PMID:25616953

  8. Auditory Risk of Exploding Hydrogen-Oxygen Balloons

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Gee, Kent L.; Vernon, Julia A.; Macedone, Jeffrey H.

    2010-01-01

    Although hydrogen-oxygen balloon explosions are popular demonstrations, the acoustic impulse created poses a hearing damage risk if the peak level exceeds 140 dB at the listener's ear. The results of acoustical measurements of hydrogen-oxygen balloons of varying volume and oxygen content are described. It is shown that hydrogen balloons may be…

  9. Investigation of the Anti-Melanogenic and Antioxidant Characteristics of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Flower Essential Oil and Determination of Its Chemical Composition.

    PubMed

    Huang, Huey-Chun; Ho, Ya-Chi; Lim, Jia-Min; Chang, Tzu-Yun; Ho, Chen-Lung; Chang, Tsong-Min

    2015-05-07

    The effects of essential oil from Eucalyptus camaldulensis flowers oil on melanogenesis and the oil's antioxidant characteristics were investigated. Assays of mushroom and cellular tyrosinase activities and melanin content of mouse melanoma cells were performed spectrophotometrically, and the expression of melanogenesis-related proteins was determined by Western blotting. The possible signaling pathways involved in essential oil-mediated depigmentation were also investigated using specific protein kinase inhibitors. The results revealed that E. camaldulensis flower essential oil effectively suppresses intracellular tyrosinase activity and decreases melanin amount in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells. The essential oil also exhibits antioxidant properties and effectively decreases intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. The volatile chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The chemical constituents in the essential oil are predominately oxygenated monoterpenes (34.9%), followed by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (31.8%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (29.0%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (4.3%). Our results indicated that E. camaldulensis flower essential oil inhibits melanogenesis through its antioxidant properties and by down-regulating both mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathways. The present study indicates that the essential oil has the potential to be developed into a skin care product.

  10. Investigation of the Anti-Melanogenic and Antioxidant Characteristics of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Flower Essential Oil and Determination of Its Chemical Composition

    PubMed Central

    Huang, Huey-Chun; Ho, Ya-Chi; Lim, Jia-Min; Chang, Tzu-Yun; Ho, Chen-Lung; Chang, Tsong-Min

    2015-01-01

    The effects of essential oil from Eucalyptus camaldulensis flowers oil on melanogenesis and the oil’s antioxidant characteristics were investigated. Assays of mushroom and cellular tyrosinase activities and melanin content of mouse melanoma cells were performed spectrophotometrically, and the expression of melanogenesis-related proteins was determined by Western blotting. The possible signaling pathways involved in essential oil-mediated depigmentation were also investigated using specific protein kinase inhibitors. The results revealed that E. camaldulensis flower essential oil effectively suppresses intracellular tyrosinase activity and decreases melanin amount in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells. The essential oil also exhibits antioxidant properties and effectively decreases intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. The volatile chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The chemical constituents in the essential oil are predominately oxygenated monoterpenes (34.9%), followed by oxygenated sesquiterpenes (31.8%), monoterpene hydrocarbons (29.0%) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (4.3%). Our results indicated that E. camaldulensis flower essential oil inhibits melanogenesis through its antioxidant properties and by down-regulating both mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) and protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathways. The present study indicates that the essential oil has the potential to be developed into a skin care product. PMID:25961954

  11. The prevalence and some metabolic traits of Brochothrix thermosphacta in meat and meat products packaged in different ways.

    PubMed

    Nowak, Agnieszka; Rygala, Anna; Oltuszak-Walczak, Elzbieta; Walczak, Piotr

    2012-04-01

    The effect of Brochothrix thermosphacta on the quality of meat and meat products is of vital importance in connection with Regulation EC/178/2002 extending the definition of unsafe foodstuffs to encompass all those which are unfit for human consumption. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of B. thermosphacta in meat and meat products packaged under different conditions and to estimate the effect of B. thermosphacta strains on product quality based on their protein and lipid degradation activity. B. thermosphacta was absent in only two of 132 samples. All other samples were contaminated with this bacterium (10(1) to 10(9) cfu g(-1) meat and 10(2) to 10(8) cfu g(-1) meat product). In products stored under high-oxygen atmosphere Brochothrix cells accounted for almost 100% total mesophilic count (TMC) and below 50% TMC in oxygen-free atmosphere. While the tested B. thermosphacta strains did not show any proteolytic activity, most of them displayed lipolytic activity at 25 °C and some even at 4 °C. B. thermosphacta is commonly present in meat and meat products packaged in different ways. This bacterium can display lipolytic activity also at refrigeration temperature. Its over-proliferation can be inhibited through vacuum packaging or packaging under a modified atmosphere with reduced oxygen content. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry.

  12. Carefully designed oxygen-containing functional groups and defects of porous carbon spheres with UV-O3 treatment and their enhanced catalytic performance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Weiliang; Huang, Xiaosheng; Lu, Gongxuan; Tang, Zhicheng

    2018-04-01

    In this paper, the support surface properties (surface oxygen-containing functional groups and structure defects) of porous carbon spheres (PCSs) were carefully designed by as UV assisted O3 technology. CO catalytic oxidation reactions performed over the supported Pd-Ce catalysts on modified porous carbon spheres. Results illustrated that the Pd-Ce/PCSs catalysts exhibited high CO catalytic activity, which were increased at first, and then decreased with UV assistant-O3 treatment time. The Pd-Ce/PCSs-30 catalyst exhibited superior activity and T100 was only 15 °C. Moreover, the Pd-Ce/PCSs-30 catalyst obtained an excellent stability, and 100% CO conversion could be maintained as the time on stream evolutes up to 16h in the presence of H2O in the feed. Based on characterization results, there were two main factors: (a) the surface area and pore volume were decreased with UV-O3 treatment, leading to the enhancement of Pd-Ce particle size, and the decrease of Pd-Ce nanoparticle dispersion and mass transfer efficiency, as well as the decrease of catalytic activity of Pd-Ce/PCSs, (b) the surface oxygen content and defect sites of PCSs were raised by UV-O3 treatment, which could improve surface loading of Pd, Ce and enhance Pdsbnd Osbnd Ce bonding interactions, thereby increasing the activity of Pd-Ce/PCSs.

  13. The harmful effects of ethanol on ion transport and cellular respiration.

    PubMed

    Blachley, J D; Johnson, J H; Knochel, J P

    1985-01-01

    The deleterious effects of ethanol on a variety of tissues may result largely from altered ion permeabilities and transport. Clinically relevant ethanol concentrations in blood increase the sodium permeability of the plasma membrane and depress active sodium transport by suppressing Na, K-ATPase activity. As a result, intracellular sodium concentration increases. The total tissue content of calcium increases. Important transport mechanisms deranged by ethanol probably include those regulating calcium-sodium and hydrogen-sodium exchange at the plasma membrane and calcium uptake by the sarcoplasmic reticulum. A modest decline in magnesium content of muscle occurs after chronic exposure to ethanol. This also has been associated with accumulation of calcium. After days to weeks of sustained ethanol intake, sodium pump activity, active sodium transport and tissue oxygen consumption increase. The cell membrane potential, initially lowered by alcohol, increases to supraphysiological levels. This is likely an electrogenic effect of increased sodium transport in response to a sodium leak. Eventually the earlier derangements in tissue composition, including retention of sodium, chloride, and calcium, and reductions in magnesium, potassium, and phosphate, slowly undergo correction. This biphasic response of injury and adaptation appears to depend upon adequate nutrition and the absence of other factors that can adversely affect cell function. That the Na, K-ATPase activity and oxygen consumption remain elevated suggests an ongoing sodium leak of the sarcolemmal membrane. Chronic ethanol-induced cell necrosis may be related to the increased intracellular calcium that accompanies the increase in sodium permeability. Conceivably, critically elevated concentrations of calcium in the cytoplasm may activate autolytic enzymes that in turn may be responsible for structural damage to the cell.

  14. Isolation, Identification and Activities of Natural Antioxidants from Callicarpa kwangtungensis Chun

    PubMed Central

    Cai, Hao; Xie, Zhiyong; Liu, Guanghui; Sun, Xiuman; Peng, Guangtian; Lin, Baoqin; Liao, Qiongfeng

    2014-01-01

    Reactive oxygen species leads to some diseases associated with oxidative stress. Callicarpa kwangtungensis Chun (CK) is a common remedy in traditional Chinese medicine and possesses diverse biological activities involving antioxidant properties; its main compounds phenylethanoid glycosides (PG) and flavonoids are always reported as antioxidants. In order to develop CK as a safe and activated antioxidant, our investigation was performed to validate antioxidant properties and assess which types of compounds (similar polarity or similar structure), even which compounds, played the role of antioxidants. The extracted compounds of CK were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by HPLC-DAD-ESI-Trap MS and UV for their contents and antioxidant activities. The correlations between antioxidant activities and known contents were respectively counted and a semi-quantitative experiment was designed to screen antioxidant compounds of CK with HPLC-UV. The n-butanol fraction (BF) showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC, TFC), and three PG (forsythiaside B, poliumoside and acteoside) contents. BF showed the significantly best (P<0.05) activities in most assays. There were significant correlations (P<0.05) between DPPH•, ABTS+•, •O2 − scavenging, Cu2+-chelating, anti-lipidperoxidation activities and TPC. BF also has significant antioxidant activities on CCl4-induced acute liver injury Mice and TBHP-reduced HepG2 cells. Nine PG (forsythiaside B, poliumoside, acteoside, alyssonoside, brandioside and their derivatives) and one flavone (rhamnazin) were screened out as antioxidants. BF in CK contained abundant polyphenolic, which reflected some definite antioxidant properties. The antioxidant compounds consisted at the least of nine PG and one flavone. PMID:24667350

  15. Role of reactive oxygen species in the anticancer activity of botanicals: Comparing sensitivity profiles

    PubMed Central

    Cohen, Zoya; Maimon, Yair; Samuels, Noah; Berger, Raanan

    2017-01-01

    Numerous botanicals have been shown to exhibit in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity, some of which is the result of the induction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cancer cells with a high ROS content. The present study compared sensitivities to a series of botanicals among cancer cell lines, using an XTT viability test, in order to create a specific cancer-herb profile. Of the 27 botanicals screened, 10 exhibited a cytotoxic effect, 7 of which were ROS-mediated. The sensitivity profiles of the ROS-inducing botanicals in 10 cancer cell lines were similar, unlike 3 cytotoxic ROS-independent botanicals that displayed divergent botanical-specific profiles. The correlation between sensitivity profiles of ROS-inducing botanicals suggests a common mechanism of action, in contrast to the varied mechanism of ROS-independent botanicals. This implies that the investigation of the anticancer activity of botanicals should start with the examination of ROS-mediated activity. Further investigation of ROS sensitivity among various tumor types is required in order to guide research into developing evidence-based guidelines in the use of botanicals for cancer treatment. PMID:28454445

  16. Zero added oxygen for high quality sputtered ITO: A data science investigation of reduced Sn-content and added Zr

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Peshek, Timothy J.; Burst, James M.; Coutts, Timothy J.

    The authors demonstrate mobilities of >45 cm{sup 2}/V s for sputtered tin-doped indium oxide (ITO) films at zero added oxygen. All films were deposited with 5 wt. % SnO{sub 2}, instead of the more conventional 8–10 wt. %, and had varying ZrO{sub 2} content from 0 to 3 wt. %, with a subsequent reduction in In{sub 2}O{sub 3} content. These films were deposited by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering from nominally stoichiometric targets with varying oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient. Anomalous behavior was discovered for films with no Zr-added, where a bimodality of high and low mobilities was discovered for nominally similar growth conditions.more » However, all films showed the lowest resistivity and highest mobilities when the oxygen partial pressure in the sputter ambient was zero. This result is contrasted with several other reports of ITO transport performance having a maximum for small but nonzero oxygen partial pressure. This result is attributed to the reduced concentration of SnO{sub 2}. The addition of ZrO{sub 2} yielded the highest mobilities at >55 cm{sup 2}/V s and the films showed a modest increase in optical transmission with increasing Zr-content.« less

  17. Influence of the Oxygen content on the thermal migration of Xenon in ZrCxO1-x

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pipon, Y.; Toulhoat, N.; Moncoffre, N.; Gutierrez, G.; Maître, A.; Gendre, M.

    2013-09-01

    Zirconium carbide (ZrC) is a refractory ceramic presenting interesting properties such as a high melting point, a very high hardness and a good thermal stability. For these reasons, this material is considered as a candidate for fuel coating for fourth-generation reactors in particular for the Gas cooled Fast Reactors (GFR). The ceramic temperature could reach 1200 °C in normal reactor operation and reach 1700 °C in accidental conditions. It is therefore important to assess the ZrC thermal retention capacity regarding abundant and/or volatile fission products. This paper deals with the behavior of Xenon which is the major gaseous fission product created during fission. Previous studies have shown that Xenon remained motionless in an "Oxygen-poor" matrix such as ZrC0.95O0.05, up to temperatures of 1800 °C. However, Zirconium oxycarbides are known to be very sensitive to oxidation. This study aims therefore at studying the behavior of Xenon in Zirconium oxycarbide samples with different Oxygen contents. Xenon is introduced by ion implantation and the samples are annealed in secondary vacuum in the temperature range 1400 °C-1800 °C. The Oxygen profiles are determined by using the 16O(4He, 4He)16O nuclear reaction at 7.5 MeV and the concentration profiles of Xenon are measured by Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry at each step of the treatment. The results show that the behavior of the material during annealing with respect to oxidation is strongly related to its initial Oxygen content. More generally, the higher the initial Oxygen content, the more important is the oxidation. Consequently, the Xenon migration is enhanced in Oxygen rich Zirconium carbides. at 1950 °C under vacuum with an applied load of 100 MPa by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) at the University of Toulouse (CNRS PNF2 platform) [22]. at 1845 °C under an Ar gas flow with an applied load of 40 MPa by Hot Pressing (HP) at Limoges. Sintered pellets were divided into two batches: (i) a batch of sintered pellets cut in the middle to analyze the centre of the pellet and named "Pellet Centre" in the following, and (ii) a batch of intact sintered pellets to analyze the edge of the pellets called "Pellet Edge". The pellet density was measured using Archimedes's method and the grain size was controlled after a 7 min annealing at 1800 °C by SEM.Each pellet was cut into several samples of 7 × 7 × 2 mm3 and polished to micron with a diamond paste. Fig. 1 illustrates the whole cutting process and the characteristics of each type of sample are summarized in Table 1 and are classified in four batches. The stoichiometry strongly influences the Xenon behavior at high temperature. The confinement of Xenon is excellent for the ZrC0.95O0.05 stoichiometry. Gutierrez et al. have already presented these results in previous papers [13,14] and shown that the stability of Xenon is related to the formation of nanometric sized bubbles that are trapped in the dislocation walls. The Xenon confinement is worse for the ZrC0.80O0.20 stoichiometry but, in a first approach, the sintering process does not seem to influence the Xenon behavior. In order to get more insight into the differences observed for this stoichiometry between the "Pellet Edge" and "Pellet Centre" samples, it was mandatory to check the Oxygen content in the Xenon implanted zones of the pellets. For the ZrC0.95O0.05 stoichiometry (Fig. 3a), the general trend for all profiles corresponds to an Oxygen enrichment at the sample surface on a thickness around 20 nm (corresponding to the resolution of the technique) followed by a drop and then a linearity of the Oxygen content in the depth of the samples. The polishing process and the pre annealing at 1400 °C for the "Polished sample" and the "As-Implanted" sample results in a rather strong oxidation of the sample surface but the amount of Oxygen remains lower than 20 at.%, whereas the Oxygen content at depth is similar to the powder's one. For increasing annealing temperatures, the Oxygen content drops at the sample surface as well as in the depth. For the samples annealed at 1800 °C, the Oxygen content in the implanted zone (˜50 nm and 300 nm) is even lower (around 1 at.%) than for the original powder. On the contrary, for all the samples corresponding to the ZrC0.80O0.20 stoichiometry, the Oxygen content is always higher than that of the original powder before sintering. Moreover, for all of these samples, the surface Oxygen contents of the annealed samples are always higher than that of the "Polished samples". The "As-Implanted" samples display heterogeneous Oxygen enrichment levels in the first 50 nm ("Pellet Centre" samples) or even 150 nm ("Pellet edge" samples). The amount of Oxygen enrichment and the enriched thickness are always higher for the "Pellet Edge" samples than for the "Pellet Centre" samples. For the "Pellet Centre" samples, the maximum Oxygen enrichment does not exceed 35 at.% at the very surface and the oxidized thickness does not exceed 150 nm and it decreases with the annealing time. For the "Pellet Edge" samples, maximum Oxygen enrichment reaches 62 at.% at the very surface and the oxidized thickness grows with the annealing time.

  18. Efficient Active Oxygen Free Radical Generated in Tumor Cell by Loading-(HCONH2)·H2O2 Delivery Nanosystem with Soft-X-ray Radiotherapy

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Lei; Shao, Yiran; Chang, Chengkang; Zhu, Yingchun

    2018-01-01

    Tumor hypoxia is known to result in radiotherapy resistance and traditional radiotherapy using super-hard X-ray irradiation can cause considerable damage to normal tissue. Therefore, formamide peroxide (FPO) with high reactive oxygen content was employed to enhance the oxygen concentration in tumor cells and increase the radio-sensitivity of low-energy soft-X-ray. To improve stability of FPO, FPO is encapsulated into polyacrylic acid (PAA)-coated hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (FPO@HMSNs-PAA). On account of the pH-responsiveness of PAA, FPO@HMSNs-PAA will release more FPO in simulated acidic tumor microenvironment (pH 6.50) and subcellular endosomes (pH 5.0) than in simulated normal tissue media (pH 7.40). When exposed to soft-X-ray irradiation, the released FPO decomposes into oxygen and the generated oxygen further formed many reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to significant tumor cell death. The ROS-mediated cytotoxicity of FPO@HMSNs-PAA was confirmed by ROS-induced green fluorescence in tumor cells. The presented FPO delivery system with soft-X-ray irradiation paves a way for developing the next opportunities of radiotherapy toward efficient tumor prognosis. PMID:29649155

  19. Evaluation of Stroma-Free Hemoglobin Solutions as Resuscitative Fluids for the Injured Soldier

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-11-01

    consultation with members of UCSD. The evaluations utilized measurements of blood gases , oxygen contents, blood lactate, cardiac and peripheral pressures...there were additional marked differences in oxygen consumption, total oxygen transport , and aortic pressure. Lactate production and left arterial...unlike the albumin animals these SFHS animals showed no changes in oxygen consumption, oxygen transport , lactate production, heart rate, dF/dt, or

  20. The protective effects of taurine on acute ammonia toxicity in grass carp Ctenopharynodon idellus.

    PubMed

    Xing, Xiaodan; Li, Ming; Yuan, Lixia; Song, Meize; Ren, Qianyan; Shi, Ge; Meng, Fanxing; Wang, Rixin

    2016-09-01

    The four experimental groups were carried out to test the response of grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella to ammonia toxicity and taurine: group 1 was injected with NaCl, group 2 was injected with ammonium acetate, group 3 was injected with ammonium acetate and taurine, and group 4 was injected taurine. Fish in group 2 had the highest ammonia content in the liver and brain, and alanine, arginine, glutamine, glutamate and glycine contents in liver. Brain alanine and glutamate of fish in group 2 were significantly higher than those of fish in group 1. Malondialdehyde content of fish in group 2 was the highest, but superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities were the lowest. Although fish in group 2 had the lowest red cell count and hemoglobin, the highest alkaline phosphatase, complement C3, C4 and total immunoglobulin contents appeared in this group. In addition, superoxide dismutase and glutathione activities, red cell count and hemoglobin of fish in group 3 were significantly higher than those of fish in group 2, but malondialdehyde content is the opposite. This study indicates that ammonia exerts its toxic effects by interfering with amino acid transport, inducing reactive oxygen species generation and malondialdehyde accumulation, leading to blood deterioration and over-activation of immune response. The exogenous taurine could mitigate the adverse effect of high ammonia level on fish physiological disorder. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. A review on the non-invasive evaluation of skeletal muscle oxygenation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Halim, A. A. A.; Laili, M. H.; Aziz, N. A.; Laili, A. R.; Salikin, M. S.; Rusop, M.

    2016-07-01

    The aim of this review is to conduct a feasibility study of non-invasive evaluation in skeletal muscle oxygenation. This non-invasive evaluation could extract many information using a safe non-invasive method regarding to the oxygenation and microcirculation status in human blood muscle. This brief review highlights the progress of the application of NIRS to evaluate skeletal muscle oxygenation in various activity of human nature from the historical point of view to the present advancement. Since the discovery of non-invasive optical method during 1992, there are many non-invasive techniques uses optical properties on human subject such as near infrared spectroscopy NIRS, optical topography, functional near infrared spectroscopy fNIRS and imaging fNIRI. Furthermore, in this paper we discuss the light absorption potential (LAP) towards chromophores content inside human muscle. Modified beer lambert law was studied in order to build a better understanding toward LAP between chromophores under tissue multilayers in human muscle. This paper will describe the NIRS principle and the basis for its proposed used in skeletal muscle oxygenation. This will cover the advantages and limitation of such application. Thus, these non-invasive techniques could open other possibilities to study muscle performance diagnosis.

  2. A Distonic Radical-Ion for Detection of Traces of Adventitious Molecular Oxygen (O2) in Collision Gases Used in Tandem Mass Spectrometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jariwala, Freneil B.; Hibbs, John A.; Weisbecker, Carl S.; Ressler, John; Khade, Rahul L.; Zhang, Yong; Attygalle, Athula B.

    2014-09-01

    We describe a diagnostic ion that enables rapid semiquantitative evaluation of the degree of oxygen contamination in the collision gases used in tandem mass spectrometers. Upon collision-induced dissociation (CID), the m/z 359 positive ion generated from the analgesic etoricoxib undergoes a facile loss of a methyl sulfone radical [•SO2(CH3); 79-Da] to produce a distonic radical cation of m/z 280. The product-ion spectrum of this m/z 280 ion, recorded under low-energy activation on tandem-in-space QqQ or QqTof mass spectrometers using nitrogen from a generator as the collision gas, or tandem-in-time ion-trap (LCQ, LTQ) mass spectrometers using purified helium as the buffer gas, showed two unexpected peaks at m/z 312 and 295. This enigmatic m/z 312 ion, which bears a mass-to-charge ratio higher than that of the precursor ion, represented an addition of molecular oxygen (O2) to the precursor ion. The exceptional affinity of the m/z 280 radical cation towards oxygen was deployed to develop a method to determine the oxygen content in collision gases.

  3. Effect of oxygen partial pressure and VO2 content on hexagonal WO3 thin films synthesized by pulsed laser deposition technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kaushal, Ajay; Kaur, Davinder

    2011-06-01

    We report on the effect of oxygen partial pressure and vacuum annealing on structural and optical properties of pulsed laser-deposited nanocrystalline WO3 thin films. XRD results show the hexagonal phase of deposited WO3 thin films. The crystallite size was observed to increase with increase in oxygen partial pressure. Vacuum annealing changed the transparent as-deposited WO3 thin film to deep shade of blue color which increases the optical absorption of the film. The origin of this blue color could be due to the presence of oxygen vacancies associated with tungsten ions in lower oxidation states. In addition, the effects of VO2 content on structural, electrochemical, and optical properties of (WO3)1- x (VO2) x nanocomposite thin films have also been systematically investigated. Cyclic voltammogram exhibits a modification with the appearance of an extra cathodic peak for VO2-WO3 thin film electrode with higher VO2 content ( x ≥ 0.2). Increase of VO2 content in (WO3)1- x (VO2) x films leads to red shift in optical band gap.

  4. Fatigue behavior of highly porous titanium produced by powder metallurgy with temporary space holders.

    PubMed

    Özbilen, Sedat; Liebert, Daniela; Beck, Tilmann; Bram, Martin

    2016-03-01

    Porous titanium cylinders were produced with a constant amount of temporary space holder (70 vol.%). Different interstitial contents were achieved by varying the starting powders (HDH vs. gas atomized) and manufacturing method (cold compaction without organic binders vs. warm compaction of MIM feedstocks). Interstitial contents (O, C, and N) as a function of manufacturing were measured by chemical analysis. Samples contained 0.34-0.58 wt.% oxygen, which was found to have the greatest effect on mechanical properties. Quasi-static mechanical tests under compression at low strain rate were used for reference and to define parameters for cyclic compression tests. Not unexpectedly, increased oxygen content increased the yield strength of the porous titanium. Cyclic compression fatigue tests were conducted using sinusoidal loading in a servo-hydraulic testing machine. Increased oxygen content was concomitant with embrittlement of the titanium matrix, resulting in significant reduction of compression cycles before failure. For samples with 0.34 wt.% oxygen, R, σ(min) and σ(max) were varied systematically to estimate the fatigue limit (~4 million cycles). Microstructural changes induced by cyclic loading were then characterized by optical microscopy, SEM and EBSD. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Structural characterization of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity of the phenolic-rich fraction from defatted adlay (Coix lachryma-jobi L. var. ma-yuen Stapf) seed meal.

    PubMed

    Wang, Lifeng; Chen, Chao; Su, Anxiang; Zhang, Yiyi; Yuan, Jian; Ju, Xingrong

    2016-04-01

    The current study aims to investigate the antioxidant activities of various extracts from defatted adlay seed meal (DASM) based on the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay, peroxyl radical scavenging capacity (PSC) assay and cellular antioxidant activity (CAA) assay. Of all the fractions, the n-butanol fraction exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, followed by crude acetone extract and aqueous fractions. Of the three sub-fractions obtained by Sephadex LH-20 chromatography, sub-fraction 3 possessed the highest antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. There was a strong positive correlation between the total phenolic content and the antioxidant activity. Based on HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis, the most abundant phenolic acid in sub-fraction 3 of DASM was ferulic acid at 67.28 mg/g, whereas the predominant flavonoid was rutin at 41.11 mg/g. Of the major individual compounds in sub-fraction 3, p-coumaric acid exhibited the highest ORAC values, and quercetin exhibited the highest PSC values and CAA values. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  6. Effects of short-term anoxia treatment on browning of fresh-cut Chinese water chestnut in relation to antioxidant activity.

    PubMed

    You, Yanli; Jiang, Yueming; Sun, Jian; Liu, Hai; Song, Lili; Duan, Xuewu

    2012-06-01

    The effects of short-term anoxia pre-treatment on browning of fresh-cut Chinese water chestnut (CWC), stored at 4°C, in relation to antioxidant activity were investigated. CWC slices were exposed to pure N 2 for 4h and then stored at 4°C for 18d. Anoxia significantly inhibited browning of CWC slices during storage, accompanied by lower contents of malondialdehyde, H 2 O 2 , and lipoxygenase activity. Furthermore, anoxia induced the activities of superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase, which could benefit scavenging reactive oxygen species and alleviating lipid peroxidation. In addition, better maintenance of reducing power and free-radical-scavenging activities against α,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazy (DPPH), superoxide anions and hydroxyl was observed in N 2 -treated CWC slices, with higher phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid contents. Collectively, these finds suggest that N 2 pre-treatment enhanced enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant activity in CWC slices, and thereby contributed to alleviating lipid peroxidation and maintenance of storage quality. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Gradually Increased Oxygen Administration Improved Oxygenation and Mitigated Oxidative Stress after Resuscitation from Severe Hemorrhagic Shock.

    PubMed

    Luo, Xin; Yin, Yujing; You, Guoxing; Chen, Gan; Wang, Ying; Zhao, Jingxiang; Wang, Bo; Zhao, Lian; Zhou, Hong

    2015-11-01

    The optimal oxygen administration strategy during resuscitation from hemorrhagic shock (HS) is still controversial. Improving oxygenation and mitigating oxidative stress simultaneously seem to be contradictory goals. To maximize oxygen delivery while minimizing oxidative damage, the authors proposed the notion of gradually increased oxygen administration (GIOA), which entails making the arterial blood hypoxemic early in resuscitation and subsequently gradually increasing to hyperoxic, and compared its effects with normoxic resuscitation, hyperoxic resuscitation, and hypoxemic resuscitation in severe HS. Rats were subjected to HS, and on resuscitation, the rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8): the normoxic, the hyperoxic, the hypoxemic, and the GIOA groups. Rats were observed for an additional 1 h. Hemodynamics, acid-base status, oxygenation, and oxidative injury were observed and evaluated. Central venous oxygen saturation promptly recovered only in the hyperoxic and the GIOA groups, and the liver tissue partial pressure of oxygen was highest in the GIOA group after resuscitation. Oxidative stress in GIOA group was significantly reduced compared with the hyperoxic group as indicated by the reduced malondialdehyde content, increased catalase activity, and the lower histologic injury scores in the liver. In addition, the tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6 expressions in the liver were markedly decreased in the GIOA group than in the hyperoxic and normoxic groups as shown by the immunohistochemical staining. GIOA improved systemic/tissue oxygenation and mitigated oxidative stress simultaneously after resuscitation from severe HS. GIOA may be a promising strategy to improve resuscitation from HS and deserves further investigation.

  8. Physiological role of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase in cold acclimation of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Yong; Yu, Dingqun; Luo, Ya; Wang, Xiaorong; Chen, Qing; Sun, Bo; Wang, Yan; Liu, Zejing; Tang, Haoru

    2018-04-01

    In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in study of new resistance mechanism in fruit trees. All these regard the climate change and subsequent fruit production. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway (OPPP), and the expression of this enzyme is related to different biotic and abiotic stresses. Under accumulation of low temperature stress, the significant increase in G6PDH activity was found to be closely correlated to the levels of antioxidant enzymes, malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, sugar contents as well as changes of superoxide (O2•-). It is suggested that the enhancement of cold resistance of strawberry, which induced by cold acclimation, related to the significant increase in G6PDH activity. On one hand, G6PDH activates NADPH oxidase to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS); on the other hand, it may be involved in the activation of antioxidant enzymes, and accelerates many other important NADPH-dependent enzymatic reactions. Then further result in the elevation of membrane stability and cold resistance of strawberry. Interestingly, even though the plants were placed again under a temperature of 25°C for 1 d, the higher cold resistance, enzyme activities and soluble sugar content acquired.

  9. Simulating the effect of photochemical aging on the oxidation state and hygroscopicity of organic aerosol

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tsimpidi, A.; Karydis, V.; Pandis, S. N.; Lelieveld, J.

    2016-12-01

    Hygroscopicity is an important property of aerosols which describes their propensity to absorb water vapor. The hygroscopicity of organic aerosol (OA) can change during its atmospheric aging affecting the total aerosol hygroscopicity. A more hygroscopic particle will grow more rapidly under humid conditions, scatter incident sunlight more efficiently; and it will more likely form cloud droplets. Both phenomena strongly influence the radiative forcing of climate through the direct and indirect effects of aerosols. Therefore, taking into account the hygrscopicity changes of OA during its atmospheric aging is of prime importance to accurately estimate the aerosol climatic impact. Here, we use a computationally efficient module for the description of OA composition and evolution in the atmosphere (ORACLE) (Tsimpidi et al., 2014) in the frame of the global chemistry climate model EMAC to simulate the global distribution of the OA oxidation state and hygroscopicity. To track the evolution of the OA oxidation state during its atmospheric aging, ORACLE is modified to include the description of the OA oxygen content change when mass from any OA surrogate species reacts with the OH radical. Subsequently, it is assumed that the cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activity of OA, expressed in the form of the hygroscopicity parameter κ, will increase with increasing oxygen content (expressed by the oxygen per carbon ratio, O:C) and will range from κ = 0 (for O:C ≤ 0.2) to κ = 0.35 (for O:C = 1). The exact relationship between O:C and κ is determined based on aerosol mass spectrometer (AMS) and continuous flow CCN (CCNC) measurements of SOA (Lambe et al., 2011). Following a straightforward mixing rule, the hygroscopicity and oxygen content of total OA is calculated based on the hygroscopicities of the individual OA compounds and their degree of oxidation. A global dataset of O:C measurements is used to validate the model results. ReferencesLambe, A. T., et al. : Laboratory studies of the chemical composition and cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) activity of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) and oxidized primary organic aerosol (OPOA), Atmos. Chem. Phys., 11, 8913-8928, 2011. Tsimpidi, A. P., et al. : ORACLE (v1.0): module to simulate the organic aerosol composition and evolution in the atmosphere, Geo. Mod. Devel., 7, 3153-3172, 2014.

  10. A System for Controlling the Oxygen Content of a Gas Produced by Combustion

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Singh, J. J.; Davis, W. T.; Puster, R. L. (Inventor)

    1984-01-01

    A mixture of air, CH4 and OH(2) is burned in a combustion chamber to produce a product gas in the test section. The OH(2) content of the product gas is compared with the OH(2) content of reference air in an OH(2) sensor. If there is a difference an error signal is produced at the output of a control circuit which by the means of a solenoid valve, regulates the flow of OH(2) into the combustion chamber to make the error signal zero. The product gas in the test section has the same oxygen content as air.

  11. IR and TPD studies of the interaction of alkenes with Cu + sites in CuNaY and CuNaX zeolites of various Cu content. The heterogeneity of Cu + sites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Datka, J.; Kukulska-Zajaç, E.; Kozyra, P.

    2006-08-01

    Cu + ions in zeolites activate organic molecules containing π electrons by π back donation, which results in a distinct weakening of multiple bonds. In this study, we followed the activation of alkenes (ethene and propene) by Cu + ions in CuY and CuX zeolites of various Cu content. We also studied the strength of bonding of alkenes to Cu + ions. IR studies have shown that there are two kinds of Cu + sites of various electron donor properties. We suppose that they could be attributed to the presence of Cu + ions of various number of oxygen atoms surrounding the cation. IR studies have shown that Cu ions introduced into Y and X zeolites in the first-order (at low Cu content) form Cu + ions of stronger electron donor properties (i.e. activate alkenes to larger extend) than Cu ions introduced in the next order (at higher Cu content). IR and TPD studies of alkenes desorption evidenced that Cu + ions of stronger electron donor properties bond alkenes stronger than less electron donor ones. It suggests that π back donation has more important contribution to the strength of bonding alkenes to cation than π donation.

  12. 75 FR 66433 - Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse Gases

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-10-28

    ... oxygen process furnace shops. Lime Production 327410 Calcium oxide, calcium hydroxide, dolomitic hydrates... Chemists AOD argon-oxygen decarburization API American Petroleum Institute ASTM American Society for... Mandates Reform Act of 1995 VOD vacuum oxygen decarburization Table of Contents I. Background A. How is...

  13. Recovery of datable charcoal beneath young lavas: lessons from Hawaii.

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Lockwood, J.P.; Lipman, P.W.

    1980-01-01

    Field studies in Hawaii aimed at providing a radiocarbon-based chronology of prehistoric eruptive activity have led to a good understanding of the processes that govern the formation and preservation of charcoal beneath basaltic lava flows. Charcoal formation is a rate-dependent process controlled primarily by temperature and duration of heating, as well as by moisture content, density, and size of original woody material. Charcoal will form wherever wood buried by lava is raised to sufficiently high temperatures, but owing to the availability of oxygen it is commonly burned to ash soon after formation. Wherever oxygen circulation is sufficiently restricted, charcoal will be preserved, but where atmospheric oxygen circulates freely, charcoal will only be preserved at a lower temperature, below that required for charcoal ignition or catalytic oxidation. These factors cause carbonized wood, especially that derived from living roots, to be commonly preserved beneath all parts of pahoehoe flows (where oxygen circulation is restricted), but only under margins of aa. Practical guidelines are given for the recovery of datable charcoal beneath pahoehoe and aa. Although based on Hawaiian basaltic flows, the guidelines should be applicable to other areas. -Authors

  14. The Rhythm of Oxidization Processes and its Disturbance Under the Action of Radiation; RITMIKA OKISLITEL'-NYKH PROTSESSOV I EE NARUSHENIE PRI DEISTVII RADIATSII

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Frank, G.M.; Snezhko, A.D.

    1961-08-28

    A modified polarographic method has been developed to determine continuously variations in the oxygen content of tissue by inserting a platinum needle as an electrode directly into the tissue of a living animal. The''oxygen test," in which the animal is allowed to breathe a controlled amount of pure oxygen, gives information about the rate of utilization of oxygen by the tissue. Ordinarily the increase in the oxygen diffusion current DELTA I is stable in form and amplitude for any given experimental animal and for a given location of the electrode. Thus, after a total irradiation of 700 to 1000 r,more » the value of DELTA I increased by a factor of two. A decrease in the ability of tissue to utilize oxygen after irradiation is indicated. Local irradiation gives a low value of DELTA I, and indicates that the unirradiated cells utilize oxygen at a faster rate than before irradiation. The oxygen content of the tissue was observed to vary rhythmically with two periods. One rhythm had a small amplitude and a high frequency of 15 to 20 oscillations per minute, and the other rhythm had a large amplitude and a low frequency of 2 to 3 oscillations per minute. Irradiation leads to a suppression of this rhythmic oscillation in the oxygen content of the tissue. These effects are most readily apparent in the irradiation of growing rootlets (Vicia fabia) and of a multiplying yeast culture. This method sheds some light on the course of chemical processes such as oxidation that occur in the cell as a function of the period of time after irradiation. (TTT)« less

  15. Influence of Food with High Moisture Content on Oxygen Barrier Property of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)/Vermiculite Nanocomposite Coated Multilayer Packaging Film.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jung Min; Lee, Min Hyeock; Ko, Jung A; Kang, Dong Ho; Bae, Hojae; Park, Hyun Jin

    2018-02-01

    This study investigates the potential complications in applying nanoclay-based waterborne coating to packaging films for food with high moisture content. Multilayer packaging films were prepared by dry laminating commercially available polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/vermiculite nanocomposite coating films and linear low-density polyethylene film, and the changes in oxygen barrier properties were investigated according to different relative humidity using 3 types of food simulants. When the relative humidity was above 60%, the oxygen permeability increased sharply, but this was reversible. Deionized water and 3% acetic acid did not cause any large structural change in the PVA/vermiculite nanocomposite but caused a reversible deterioration of the oxygen barrier properties. In contrast, 50% ethanol, a simulant for the semifatty food, induced irreversible structural changes with deterioration of the oxygen barrier property. These changes are due to the characteristics of PVA rather than vermiculite. We believe this manuscript would be of interest to the wide group of researchers, organizations, and companies in the field of developing nanoclay-based gas barrier packaging for foods with high moisture content. Hence, we wish to diffuse our knowledge to the scientific community. © 2018 Institute of Food Technologists®.

  16. The effects on increasing cardiac output with adrenaline or isoprenaline on arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation and shunt during one-lung ventilation.

    PubMed

    Russell, W J; James, M F

    2000-12-01

    Theoretically, if the cardiac output were increased in the presence of a given intrapulmonary shunt, the arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation (SaO2) should improve as the venous oxygen extraction per ml of blood decreases. To test this hypothesis, eight pigs were subjected to one-lung ventilation and adrenaline and isoprenaline infusions used to increase the cardiac output. The mixed venous oxygen, shunt fraction and oxygen consumption were measured. With both adrenaline and isoprenaline, although there was a small rise in mixed venous oxygen content, there was a fall in SaO2. With adrenaline, the mean shunt rose from 48% to 65%, the mean oxygen consumption rose from 126 ml/min to 134 ml/min and the mean SaO2 fell from 86.9% to 82.5%. With isoprenaline, the mean shunt rose from 45% to 59%, the mean oxygen consumption rose from 121 ml/min to 137 ml/min and the mean SaO2 fell from 89.5% to 84.7%. It is concluded that potential improvement in SaO2, which might occur from a catecholamine-induced increase in mixed venous oxygen content during one-lung ventilation, is more than offset by increased shunting and oxygen consumption which reduce SaO2.

  17. Influence of temperature, oxygen and salinity on the metabolism of the European sea bass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Claireaux, G.; Lagardère, J.-P.

    1999-09-01

    Standard (SMR) and routine (RMR) metabolic rates of groups (4 to 5 individuals) of European sea bass ( Dicentrarchus labrax) were measured at combinations of the following factors: temperature (10, 15, 20 and 25°C), oxygenation level (air saturation to 1.5 mg dm -3) and salinity (30, 20, 10 and 5‰). The influence of these environmental conditions on fish metabolic demand was then analysed through ANOVA. At 10, 15, 20 and 25°C, standard metabolic rates were 36, 65, 89, and 91 mg O 2 kg -1 h -1, respectively, while routine oxygen consumptions covered most of the metabolic range accessible. Osmoregulatory costs are linked to metabolic activity through ventilation. This relationship was highlighted by the observed interaction between environmental salinity and temperature. We were, however, unable to detect interactions between salinity and routine metabolic rate, or between salinity and oxygenation level. In order to delineate more precisely the restrictions imposed by water oxygenation on fish metabolic performance we determined the limiting oxygen concentration curves at each experimental temperature. We followed up by modelling the bass active metabolic rate (AMR) and metabolic scope (MS) as functions of both ambient temperature and oxygenation. These mathematical models allowed the characterisation of the controlling and limiting effects of water temperature and oxygen content on the metabolic capacity of the species. Thus, AMR at 10, 15 and 20°C were estimated at 65, 160 and 360 mg O 2 kg -1 h -1, respectively. However, at higher temperature (25°C) AMR dropped slightly (to 340 mg O 2 kg -1 h -1). Bass MS increased by a factor of 9 between 10 and 20°C, but diminished at higher temperatures. The present study contributes to our current understanding of the influences of environmental factors on the metabolism of sea bass and provides a bioenergetic basis for a study of how environmental constraints govern the spatial and temporal distribution pattern of this species.

  18. Antioxidant activity and phenolic compositions of lentil (Lens culinaris var. Morton) extract and its fractions

    PubMed Central

    Zou, Yanping; Chang, Sam K.C.; Gu, Yan; Qian, Steven Y.

    2011-01-01

    Phenolic compounds were extracted from Morton lentils using acidified aqueous acetone. The crude Morton extract (CME) was applied onto a macroresin column and desorbed by aqueous methanol to obtain a semi-purified Morton extract (SPME). The SPME was further fractionated over Sephadex LH-20 column into five main fractions (Fr I – Fr V). The phytochemical contents such as total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and condensed tannin content (CTC) of the CME, SPME, and its fractions were examined by colorimetric methods. Antioxidant activity of extracts and fractions were screened by DPPH scavenging activity, trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reduced antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbing capacity (ORAC) methods. In addition, the compositions of active fractions were determined by HPLC-DAD and HPLC-MS methods. Results showed that fraction enriched in condensed tannins (Fr V) exhibited significantly higher value of TPC, CTC and higher antioxidant activity as compared to the crude extract, SPME and low-molecular-weight fractions (Fr I – IV). Eighteen compounds existed in those fractions, and seventeen were tentatively identified by UV and MS spectra. HPLC-MS analysis revealed Fr II contained mainly kaempferol glycoside, Fr III and Fr IV mainly contained flavonoid glycosides, and Fr V was composed of condensed tannins. The results suggested that extract of Morton lentils is a promising source of antioxidant phenolics, and may be used as a dietary supplement for health promotion. PMID:21332205

  19. Retinal oxygen extraction in individuals with type 1 diabetes with no or mild diabetic retinopathy.

    PubMed

    Fondi, Klemens; Wozniak, Piotr A; Howorka, Kinga; Bata, Ahmed M; Aschinger, Gerold C; Popa-Cherecheanu, Alina; Witkowska, Katarzyna J; Hommer, Anton; Schmidl, Doreen; Werkmeister, René M; Garhöfer, Gerhard; Schmetterer, Leopold

    2017-08-01

    The aim of this study was to compare retinal oxygen extraction in individuals with diabetes with no or mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy and healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers. A total of 24 participants with type 1 diabetes and 24 healthy age- and sex-matched volunteers were included in this cross-sectional study. Retinal oxygen extraction was measured by combining total retinal blood flow measurements using a custom-built bi-directional Doppler optical coherence tomography system with measurements of oxygen saturation using spectroscopic reflectometry. Based on previously published mathematical modelling, the oxygen content in retinal vessels and total retinal oxygen extraction were calculated. Total retinal blood flow was higher in diabetic participants (46.4 ± 7.4 μl/min) than in healthy volunteers (40.4 ± 5.3 μl/min, p = 0.002 between groups). Oxygen content in retinal arteries was comparable between the two groups, but oxygen content in retinal veins was higher in participants with diabetes (0.15 ± 0.02 ml O 2 /ml) compared with healthy control participants (0.13 ± 0.02 ml O 2 /ml, p < 0.001). As such, the arteriovenous oxygen difference and total retinal oxygen extraction were reduced in participants with diabetes compared with healthy volunteers (total retinal oxygen extraction 1.40 ± 0.44 vs 1.70 ± 0.47 μl O 2 /min, respectively, p = 0.03). Our data indicate early retinal hypoxia in individuals with type 1 diabetes with no or mild diabetic retinopathy as compared with healthy control individuals. Further studies are required to fully understand the potential of the technique in risk stratification and treatment monitoring. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01843114.

  20. Influence of perfluorocarbons on Carbamazepine and Benzodiazepine for a neuro-lung protective strategy.

    PubMed

    Natchimuthu, V; Thomas, Sabu; Ramalingam, Murugan; Ravi, S

    2017-09-01

    Lennox-Gastaut syndrome (LGS) is commonly characterized by a triad of features including multiple seizure types, intellectual disability or regression. LGS type of seizures is epilepsy which is due to abnormal vibrations occurring in seizures. During the time of such abnormal vibrations, both the seizures and the lungs suffer a lack in oxygen content to a considerable extent. This results in prolonged vibrations and loses of nervous control. As a neuro-lung protective strategy, a novel attempt has been made to enrich both seizures and lungs with oxygen content through the support of Perfluorodecalin (an excellent oxygen carrier) C 10 F 18 (PFD) and Perfluorohexane C 6 F 14 (PFH) along with an enhancement in the antiepileptic activity by the two chosen antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) Carbamazepine (CBZ) and Benzodiazepine (BDZ). Perfluorodecalin C 10 F 18 (PFD) and Perfluorohexane C 6 F 14 (PFH) emulsions were prepared by sonication process with combination of nonionic emulsifier, Lecithin (l-α-phosphatidylcholine) as a surfactant in Aqueous phase medium. These emulsions were mixed with Carbamazepine (CBZ) and Benzodiazepine (BDZ) drugs maintained at a temperature of about -20°C to 20°C and were set to slow evaporation process. The products are subjected to Optical microscope, Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) - Energy dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS). Study reveals the co-existence of fluorine and drug ensuring the oxygen uptake by the drug. Morphology of TEM, Optical microscopic images and the particle diameter estimated through Image_J confirms this analysis. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. 29 CFR 1910.272 - Grain handling facilities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... employees. (B) If toxicity or oxygen deficiency cannot be eliminated by ventilation, employees entering the... there are no toxicity, flammability, oxygen-deficiency, or other atmospheric hazards is covered by... present. Additionally, the atmosphere within a bin, silo, or tank shall be tested for oxygen content...

  2. 29 CFR 1910.272 - Grain handling facilities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... employees. (B) If toxicity or oxygen deficiency cannot be eliminated by ventilation, employees entering the... there are no toxicity, flammability, oxygen-deficiency, or other atmospheric hazards is covered by... present. Additionally, the atmosphere within a bin, silo, or tank shall be tested for oxygen content...

  3. 29 CFR 1910.272 - Grain handling facilities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... employees. (B) If toxicity or oxygen deficiency cannot be eliminated by ventilation, employees entering the... there are no toxicity, flammability, oxygen-deficiency, or other atmospheric hazards is covered by... present. Additionally, the atmosphere within a bin, silo, or tank shall be tested for oxygen content...

  4. Sediment oxygen demand in the lower Willamette River, Oregon, 1994

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Caldwell, James M.; Doyle, Micelis C.

    1995-01-01

    Sediment samples were collected near each chamber and analyzed for percent water, percent sand, and percent organics. The sand content ranged from 0.1 to 6.2 percent and averaged 1.8 percent. The organic content ranged from 1.4 to 9.6 and averaged 5.6 percent. No statistically significant correlations were found between these sediment characteristics and sediment oxygen demand.

  5. Three-Dimensional Mathematical Model of Oxygen Transport Behavior in Electroslag Remelting Process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Huang, Xuechi; Li, Baokuan; Liu, Zhongqiu

    2018-04-01

    A transient three-dimensional model has been proposed to investigate the oxygen transport behavior in electroslag remelting process. The electromagnetism, heat transfer, multiphase flow, and species transport were calculated simultaneously by finite volume method. The volume of fluid approach was adopted to trace the metal-slag-air three-phase flow. Based on the necessary thermodynamics of oxygen transport behavior, a kinetic model was established to predict the mass source terms in species transport equation. The kinetic correction factor was proposed to account for the effect of the oxide scale formed on the electrode on the FeO content in slag. Finally, the effect of applied current on the oxygen transfer was studied. The predicted result agrees well with the measured data when the kinetic correction factor is set to be 0.5. The temperature distribution that affects the thermodynamics differs at the interfaces. The oxygen in air is absorbed into slag due to the oxidation at the slag/air interface. The Fe2O3 in slag and the oxide scale contribute to the increase of FeO content in slag, and the latter one plays the leading role. The oxygen transfer from slag to metal mainly occurs during the formation of the droplet at the slag/metal droplet interface. With the current increasing from 1200 to 1800 A, the oxygen content increases from 76.4 to 89.8 ppm, and then slightly declines to 89.2 ppm when the current increases to 2100 A.

  6. Seasonal changes in the body size of two rotifer species living in activated sludge follow the Temperature-Size Rule.

    PubMed

    Kiełbasa, Anna; Walczyńska, Aleksandra; Fiałkowska, Edyta; Pajdak-Stós, Agnieszka; Kozłowski, Jan

    2014-12-01

    Temperature-Size Rule (TSR) is a phenotypic body size response of ectotherms to changing temperature. It is known from the laboratory studies, but seasonal patterns in the field were not studied so far. We examined the body size changes in time of rotifers inhabiting activated sludge. We hypothesize that temperature is the most influencing parameter in sludge environment, leading sludge rotifers to seasonally change their body size according to TSR, and that oxygen content also induces the size response. The presence of TSR in Lecane inermis rotifer was tested in a laboratory study with two temperature and two food-type treatments. The effect of interaction between temperature and food was significant; L. inermis followed TSR in one food type only. The seasonal variability in the body sizes of the rotifers L. inermis and Cephalodella gracilis was estimated by monthly sampling and analyzed by multiple regression, in relation to the sludge parameters selected as the most influential by multivariate analysis, and predicted to alter rotifer body size (temperature and oxygen). L. inermis varied significantly in size throughout the year, and this variability is explained by temperature as predicted by the TSR, but not by oxygen availability. C. gracilis also varied in size, though this variability was explained by both temperature and oxygen. We suggest that sludge age acts as a mortality factor in activated sludge. It may have a seasonal effect on the body size of L. inermis and modify a possible effect of oxygen. Activated sludge habitat is driven by both biological processes and human regulation, yet its resident organisms follow general evolutionary rule as they do in other biological systems. The interspecific response patterns differ, revealing the importance of taking species-specific properties into account. Our findings are applicable to sludge properties enhancement through optimizing the conditions for its biological component.

  7. [Protective effect of hydrogen against hyperoxia-induced type II alveolar epithelial cell injury].

    PubMed

    Yao, Lan; Xu, Feng; Luo, Chong; Yu, Pan; Dong, Xinxin; Sun, Xuejun; Liu, Chengjun

    2013-02-01

    To investigate the protective effect of hydrogen against hyperoxia-induced oxidative stress injury in premature rat type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECs). The type II AECs isolated from premature rats were randomly divided into air (21% oxygen) control group, hyperoxia (95% oxygen) control group, air + hydrogen group, and hyperoxia+ hydrogen group. The cells with hydrogen treatment were cultured in the presence of rich hydrogen. After the corresponding exposure for 24 h, the cell morphology was observed microscopically. MTT assay was used to evaluated the cell proliferation ability, and JC-1 fluorescence probe was used to detect the mitochondrial membrane potential (δφ) changes of the type II AECs. The concentration of maleic dialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in the cell supernatant were detected using colorimetric method. No significant differences were found in cell growth or measurements between air control and air + hydrogen groups. Compared with air control group, the cells exposed to hyperoxia showed significantly suppressed proliferation, reduced mitochondrial membrane potential, increased MDA content, and decreased SOD activity. Intervention with hydrogen resulted in significantly increased cell proliferation and SOD activity and lowered MDA content, and restored the mitochondrial membrane potential in the cells with hyperoxia exposure (P<0.05). Hydrogen can significantly reduce hyperoxia-induced oxidative stress injury in premature rat type II AECs, improve the cellular antioxidant capacity, stabilize the mitochondrial membrane potential, and reduce the inhibitory effect of hyperoxia on cell proliferation.

  8. Anti-aging Potential of Extracts Prepared from Fruits and Medicinal Herbs Cultivated in the Gyeongnam Area of Korea

    PubMed Central

    Shon, Myung-Soo; Lee, Yunjeong; Song, Ji-Hye; Park, Taehyun; Lee, Jun Kyoung; Kim, Minju; Park, Eunju; Kim, Gyo-Nam

    2014-01-01

    Many recent studies have focused on maintaining a healthy life by preventing and/or postponing the aging process. Numerous studies have reported that continuous exposure to reactive oxygen species can stimulate skin aging and that excessive accumulation of fat can cause an impaired skin barrier and tissue structure alterations. Thus, the maintenance of antioxidant homeostasis and the suppression of adipose accumulation are important strategies for skin anti-aging. Here, we prepared three types of extracts [whole juice, acetone-perchloric acid (PCA), and ethanol] from 20 fruits and medicinal herbs native to the Gyeongnam area of Korea. The total phenolic content of each extract was analyzed, and we observed higher total phenolic contents in the medicinal herbs. Consistent with this, the results of the oxygen radical absorbance activity capacity assay indicated that the in vitro antioxidant activities of the medicinal herb extracts were stronger than those of the fruit extracts. The fruits and medicinal herbs had strong effects on cell-based systems, including H2O2-induced oxidative stress in human keratinocytes and 3T3-L1 lipid accumulation. Nishimura Wase persimmon, Taishu persimmon, wrinkled giant hyssop, sweet wormwood, Chinese cedar, red perilla, tan shen, hiyodori-jogo, and cramp bark may be natural anti-aging materials with effective antioxidant and anti-adipogenic activities. Taken together, our findings may provide scientific evidence supporting the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals from fruits and medicinal herbs. PMID:25320715

  9. Disinfection of Escherichia coli Gram negative bacteria using surface modified TiO2: optimization of Ag metallization and depiction of charge transfer mechanism.

    PubMed

    Gomathi Devi, LakshmipathiNaik; Nagaraj, Basavalingaiah

    2014-01-01

    The antibacterial activity of silver deposited TiO2 (Ag-TiO2 ) against Gram negative Escherichia coli bacteria was investigated by varying the Ag metal content from 0.10 to 0.50% on the surface of TiO2 . Ag depositions by the photoreduction method were found to be stable. Surface silver metallization was confirmed by EDAX and XPS studies. Photoluminescence studies show that the charge carrier recombination is less for 0.1% Ag-TiO2 and this catalyst shows superior bactericidal activity under solar light irradiation compared to Sol gel TiO2 (SG-TiO2 ) due to the surface plasmon effect. The energy levels of deposited Ag are dependent on the Ag content and it varies from -4.64 eV to -1.30 eV with respect to the vacuum energy level based on atomic silver to bulk silver deposits. The ability of electron transfer from Ag deposit to O2 depends on the position of the energy levels. The 0.25% and 0.50% Ag depositions showed detrimental effect on bactericidal activity due to the mismatch of energy levels. The effect of the EROS (External generation of the Reactive Oxygen Species by 0.1% Ag-TiO2 ) and IROS (Interior generation of Reactive Oxygen Species within the bacteria) on the bactericidal inactivation is discussed in detail. © 2014 The American Society of Photobiology.

  10. Menadione induces the formation of reactive oxygen species and depletion of GSH-mediated apoptosis and inhibits the FAK-mediated cell invasion.

    PubMed

    Kim, Yun Jeong; Shin, Yong Kyoo; Sohn, Dong Suep; Lee, Chung Soo

    2014-09-01

    Menadione induces apoptosis in tumor cells. However, the mechanism of apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells exposed to menadione is not clear. In addition, it is unclear whether menadione-induced apoptosis is mediated by the depletion of glutathione (GSH) contents that is associated with the formation of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, the effect of menadione on the invasion and migration of human epithelial ovarian cancer cells has not been studied. Therefore, we investigated the effects of menadione exposure on apoptosis, cell adhesion, and cell migration using the human epithelial ovarian carcinoma cell lines OVCAR-3 and SK-OV-3. The results suggest that menadione may induce apoptotic cell death in ovarian carcinoma cell lines by activating the mitochondrial pathway and the caspase-8- and Bid-dependent pathways. The apoptotic effect of menadione appears to be mediated by the formation of reactive oxygen species and the depletion of GSH. Menadione inhibited fetal-bovine-serum-induced cell adhesion and migration of OVCAR-3 cells, possibly through the suppression the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)-dependent activation of cytoskeletal-associated components. Therefore, menadione might be beneficial in the treatment of epithelial ovarian adenocarcinoma and combination therapy.

  11. Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Nanoparticles for Oxygen Reduction Prepared via a Crushing Method Involving a High Shear Mixer.

    PubMed

    Shi, Lei; Wu, Tao; Wang, Yiqing; Zhang, Jie; Wang, Gang; Zhang, Jinli; Dai, Bin; Yu, Feng

    2017-09-04

    The disposal of agricultural wastes such as fresh banana peels (BPs) is an environmental issue. In this work, fresh BPs were successfully transformed into nitrogen-doped carbon nanoparticles (N-CNPs) by using a high shear mixer facilitated crushing method (HSM-FCM) followed by carbonization under Ar atmosphere. Ammonia-activated N-CNPs (N-CNPs-NH₃) were prepared via subsequent ammonia activation treatments at a high temperature. The as-prepared N-CNPs and N-CNPs-NH₃ materials both exhibited high surface areas (above 700 m²/g) and mean particle size of 50 nm. N-CNPs-NH 3 showed a relatively higher content of pyridinic and graphitic N compared to N-CNPs. In alkaline media, N-CNPs-NH₃ showed superior performances as an oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalyst (E₀ = -0.033 V, J = 2.4 mA/cm²) compared to N-CNPs (E₀ = 0.07 V, J = 1.8 mA/cm²). In addition, N-CNPs-NH₃ showed greater oxygen reduction stability and superior methanol crossover avoidance than a conventional Pt/C catalyst. This study provides a novel, simple, and scalable approach to valorize biomass wastes by synthesizing highly efficient electrochemical ORR catalysts.

  12. Monitoring of impact of anthropogenic inputs on water quality of mangrove ecosystem of Uran, Navi Mumbai, west coast of India.

    PubMed

    Pawar, Prabhakar R

    2013-10-15

    Surface water samples were collected from substations along Sheva creek and Dharamtar creek mangrove ecosystems of Uran (Raigad), Navi Mumbai, west coast of India. Water samples were collected fortnightly from April 2009 to March 2011 during spring low and high tides and were analyzed for pH, Temperature, Turbidity, Total solids (TS), Total dissolved solids (TDS), Total suspended solids (TSS), Dissolved oxygen (DO), Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), Carbon dioxide (CO2), Chemical oxygen demand (COD), Salinity, Orthophosphate (O-PO4), Nitrite-nitrogen (NO2-N), Nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N), and Silicates. Variables like pH, turbidity, TDS, salinity, DO, and BOD show seasonal variations. Higher content of O-PO4, NO3-N, and silicates is recorded due to discharge of domestic wastes and sewage, effluents from industries, oil tanking depots and also from maritime activities of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), hectic activities of Container Freight Stations (CFS), and other port wastes. This study reveals that water quality from mangrove ecosystems of Uran is deteriorating due to industrial pollution and that mangrove from Uran is facing the threat due to anthropogenic stress. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Reactive oxygen species in response of plants to gravity stress

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jadko, Sergiy

    2016-07-01

    Reactive oxygen species (ROS) as second messengers can induce stress response of plants. Thioredoxins (Trx) and peroxiredoxins (Prx) can function as sensors and transmitters of the ROS in stress signaling and antioxidant response. 12-14 days old tissue culture of Arabidopsis thaliana have been investigated. Hypergravity stress was induced by centrifugation at 10 and 20 g during 30 and 90 min and than intensity of spontaneous chemiluminescence (SChL/ROS content), Trx and Prx activities were determined. All experiments were repeated from 3 to 5 times and the obtained data were statistically treated. In the tissue culture under development of the stress there were an increase in intensity of SChL and Trx and Prx activities. Thus, under hypergravity stress in the plant occurred early increase in the ROS level and the ROS induced the increase in the Trx and Prx activities. Prx and Trx can also participate in the formation of stress respons as acceptors and transducers of the redox signals. Increase in the activity of these enzymes primarily aimed at increasing of the total antioxidant activity in the cells to prevent of the plant to development of oxidative degradation by ROS.

  14. In vitro antioxidant activities of the novel pentapeptides Ser-His-Glu-Cys-Asn and Leu-Pro-Phe-Ala-Met and the relationship between activity and peptide secondary structure.

    PubMed

    Yang, Ruiwen; Wang, Jia; Lin, Songyi; Ye, Haiqing; Chen, Feng

    2017-04-01

    Using high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry, two novel antioxidant pentapeptides [Ser-His-Glu-Cys-Asn (SHECN) and Leu-Pro-Phe-Ala-Met (LPFAM)] were identified from 1-3-kDa soybean protein hydrolysates (SPH). The MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] assay was used to evaluate cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells. Antioxidant activity was measured using in vitro assays, including the cellular antioxidant activity assay (CAA), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl or 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) inhibition, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assays. Finally, the secondary structure was determined using circular dichroism (CD). The results revealed that two novel peptides were nontoxic and possessed antioxidant activity. SHECN had significantly higher antioxidant activity than LPFAM (P < 0.05). The CAA value of SHECN was 776.22 µmol QE 100 g -1 . SHECN also showed significant DPPH inhibition (70.18 ± 4.06%) and ABTS inhibition (88.16 ± 0.76%). It had normalized ORAC values of 0.3000 ± 0.0070 µmol GE mg -1 and 0.0900 ± 0.0020 µmol TE mg -1 , respectively. The results of the CD analysis demonstrated that, compared to LPFAM, which had much lower antioxidant activity, SHECN had a high β-sheet content and reduced α-helix content. The results indicated that SHECN possessed high antioxidant activity. A higher β-sheet content and lower content levels of α-helix appear to be correlated with antioxidant activity. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

  15. Profiling of anthocyanins in transgenic purple-fleshed sweet potatoes by HPLC-MS/MS.

    PubMed

    Ge, Jingqiu; Hu, Yijie; Wang, Hongxia; Huang, Yuanshe; Zhang, Peng; Liao, Zhihua; Chen, Min

    2017-11-01

    Anthocyanins in purple-fleshed sweet potato (PSP) are beneficial to human health. The leaf color (Lc) gene is a transcription factor involved in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis. The anthocyanin profiles of wild-type PSP of Ayamurasaki and its three Lc-transgenic lines were investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). In vitro antioxidant activities of wild-type and Lc-transgenic lines, including reducing power activity, DPPH radical scavenging activity, hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, linoleic acid autoxidation inhibition activity, ABTS free radical scavenging activity and oxygen radical absorbance capacity activity, were measured. The results showed that the total anthocyanin contents increased 1.5-1.9 times in three transgenic lines compared with that in wild-type PSP. Seventeen anthocyanins were found in wild-type PSP, while 19 in Lc-transgenic lines including cyanidin-based, peonidin-based and pelargonidin-based anthocyanins. Three pelargonidin-based anthocyanins were detected in three Lc-transgenic lines. Among them, the relative contents of cyanidin-based and pelargonidin-based anthocyanins increased 1.9-2.0 and 3.4-4.5 times respectively, while peonidin-based anthocyanins decreased 1.8-1.9 times in Lc-transgenic lines, compared with wild-type PSP. PSP from wild-type Ayamurasaki and three Lc-transgenic lines exhibited potent antioxidant activities, whereas there was no distinct difference among them. The transgene Lc significantly increased the content of total anthocyanins and remarkably changed the anthocyanin profiles in Ayamurasaki. Such novel and high content of anthocyanins obtained in the Lc-transgenic lines with potent antioxidant activities may provide unique functional products with potential helpful for human health. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

  16. Acute β-Hydroxy-β-Methyl Butyrate Suppresses Regulators of Mitochondrial Biogenesis and Lipid Oxidation While Increasing Lipid Content in Myotubes.

    PubMed

    Schnuck, Jamie K; Johnson, Michele A; Gould, Lacey M; Gannon, Nicholas P; Vaughan, Roger A

    2016-10-01

    Leucine modulates synthetic and degradative pathways in muscle, possibly providing metabolic benefits for both athletes and diseased populations. Leucine has become popular among athletes for improving performance and body composition, however little is known about the metabolic effects of the commonly consumed leucine-derived metabolite β-hydroxy-β-methyl butyrate (HMB). Our work measured the effects of HMB on metabolic protein expression, mitochondrial content and metabolism, as well as lipid content in skeletal muscle cells. Specifically, cultured C2C12 myotubes were treated with either a control or HMB ranging from 6.25 to 25 μM for 24 h and mRNA and/or protein expression, oxygen consumption, glucose uptake, and lipid content were measured. Contrary to leucine's stimulatory effect on metabolism, HMB-treated cells exhibited significantly reduced regulators of lipid oxidation including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and PPARβ/δ, as well as downstream target carnitine palmitoyl transferase, without alterations in glucose or palmitate oxidation. Furthermore, HMB significantly inhibited activation of the master regulator of energetics, AMP-activated protein kinase. As a result, HMB-treated cells also displayed reduced total mitochondrial content compared with true control or cells equivocally treated with leucine. Additionally, HMB treatment amplified markers of lipid biosynthesis (PPARγ and fatty acid synthase) as well as consistently promoted elevated total lipid content versus control cells. Collectively, our results demonstrate that HMB did not improve mitochondrial metabolism or content, and may promote elevated cellular lipid content possibly through heightened PPARγ expression. These observations suggest that HMB may be most beneficial for populations interested in stimulating anabolic cellular processes.

  17. Antioxidative capacity and enzyme activity in Haematococcus pluvialis cells exposed to superoxide free radicals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Jianguo; Zhang, Xiaoli; Sun, Yanhong; Lin, Wei

    2010-01-01

    The antioxidative capacity of astaxanthin and enzyme activity of reactive oxygen eliminating enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were studied in three cell types of Haematococcus pluvialis exposed to high concentrations of a superoxide anion radical (O{2/-}). The results show that defensive enzymes and astaxanthin-related mechanisms were both active in H. pluvialis during exposure to reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as O{2/-}. Astaxanthin reacted with ROS much faster than did the protective enzymes, and had the strongest antioxidative capacity to protect against lipid peroxidation. The defensive mechanisms varied significantly between the three cell types and were related to the level of astaxanthin that had accumulated in those cells. Astaxanthin-enriched red cells had the strongest antioxidative capacity, followed by brown cells, and astaxanthin-deficient green cells. Although there was no significant increase in expression of protective enzymes, the malondialdehyde (MDA) content in red cells was sustained at a low level because of the antioxidative effect of astaxanthin, which quenched O{2/-} before the protective enzymes could act. In green cells, astaxanthin is very low or absent; therefore, scavenging of ROS is inevitably reliant on antioxidative enzymes. Accordingly, in green cells, these enzymes play the leading role in scavenging ROS, and the expression of these enzymes is rapidly increased to reduce excessive ROS. However, because ROS were constantly increased in this study, the enhance enzyme activity in the green cells was not able to repair the ROS damage, leading to elevated MDA content. Of the four defensive enzymes measured in astaxanthin-deficient green cells, SOD eliminates O{2/-}, POD eliminates H2O2, which is a by-product of SOD activity, and APX and CAT are then initiated to scavenge excessive ROS.

  18. [The modification of nitric oxide production by exogenous substrates of Krebs cycle during acute hypoxia].

    PubMed

    Kurhaliuk, N M; Kotsiuruba, A V; Sahach, V F

    2005-01-01

    Hypoxia causes the disruption of mitochondria electron respiratory chain, production of active oxygen forms and the unoxidative protection. In experiments on Wistar rats the influence of sodium succinate (50 mg/kg) and 6-ketoglutarate (200 mg/kg) on NO2-, NO3-, urea and polyamines contents in blood and liver under acute hypoxia (7% O2 in N2, 30 min) was investigated. Nitrite and nitrate content decreased in erythrocytes and liver but not in plasma under acute hypoxia. The exogenous succinate (SK) stimulated production of nitric oxide in erythrocytes and liver while 6-ketoglutarate (KG) only in liver. The switch from more intensive SK oxidation that reveals adrenomimetic influence and causes the synthesis and release of NO from erythrocyte, to less intensive KG correlates with well-known decrease of tissue respiration under the activation of the cholinergic system due to urea cycle activation particularly in liver. The activation of the SK oxidation takes place mainly under the different stress conditions and causes NO production in the blood cells. These conditions of the intensive and fast action under acute hypoxia are accompanied on the one hand by the increase of oxygen input ratio and on the other hand by activation of the free radical oxidation. The protective effect of the natural Krebs cycle intermediates--SK and KG in particular, is related to the regulation of NO synthesis and its metabolism in the main organs. These results proved the existence not only metabolite control of NO system by Krebs cycle intermediates, but the existence of the systemic mechanism for the support of the functional state of mitochondria under hypoxia.

  19. Salicylic acid alleviates aluminum toxicity in soybean roots through modulation of reactive oxygen species metabolism

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Ning; Song, Fengbin; Zhu, Xiancan; You, Jiangfeng; Yang, Zhenming; Li, Xiangnan

    2017-11-01

    As an important signal molecule, salicylic acid (SA) improves plant tolerance to aluminum (Al) stress. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of exogenous SA application on the dynamics of endogenous SA and reactive oxygen species in soybean (Glycine max L.) exposed to Al stress. The roots of soybean seedlings were exposed to a combination of AlCl3 (30 μM) and SA (10 μM)/PAC (100 μM, paclobutrazol, SA biosynthesis inhibitor) for 3, 6, 9 and 12 h. Al stress induced an increase in endogenous SA concentration in a time-dependent manner, also verified by the up-regulated expression of GmNPR1, an SA-responsive gene. Al stress increased the activities of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) and benzoic acid 2-hydroxylase (BA2H), and the contents of SA, O2- and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the root apex. The application of exogenous SA increased PAL and BA2H, and reduced O2- and MDA contents in soybean roots under Al stress. PAC inhibited the SA induced increase in BA2H activity. In addition, the SA application resulted in a rapid increase in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration under Al stress, followed by a sharp decrease. Compared with the plants exposed to Al alone, Al+SA plants possessed higher activities of superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase, and lower catalase activity, indicating that SA alleviated Al-induced oxidative damage. These results suggested that PAL and BA2H were involved in Al-induced SA production and showed that SA alleviated the adverse effects of Al toxicity by modulating the cellular H2O2 level and the antioxidant enzyme activities in the soybean root apex.

  20. Trehalose improves rabbit sperm quality during cryopreservation.

    PubMed

    Zhu, Zhendong; Fan, Xiaoteng; Pan, Yang; Lu, Yinghua; Zeng, Wenxian

    2017-04-01

    High levels of reactive oxygen species are associated with spermatozoa cryopreservation, which bring damage to functional spermatozoa. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether and how the freezing extenders supplemented with trehalose was beneficial for the survival of rabbit spermatozoa. semen was diluted with Tris-citrate-glucose extender addition of different concentrations of trehalose. Addition of 100 mM trehaose significantly improved post-thaw rabbit sperm parameters, such as motility, acrosome integriy, membrane integrity and mitochondrial membrane potential. Moreover, when freezing extenders supplemented with trehalose, activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC) of post-thaw spermatozoa were enhanced, meanwhile, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and Malondialdehyde (MDA) content were decreased. The results suggest that freezing extenders supplemented with 100 mM trehalose resulted in less ROS level and MDA content, higher motility and mitochondrial membrane potential as well as the integrity of acrosome and plasma membrane. Supplementation of trehalose with freezing extenders is beneficial to the rabbit breeding industry. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. B, N co-doped carbon from cross-linking induced self-organization of boronate polymer for supercapacitor and oxygen reduction reaction

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chang, Ying; Yuan, Conghui; Liu, Cheng; Mao, Jie; Li, Yuntong; Wu, Haiyang; Wu, Yuzhe; Xu, Yiting; Zeng, Birong; Dai, Lizong

    2017-10-01

    A novel strategy has been developed to generate B, N co-doped carbon materials (CNBs) through the pyrolysis of boronate polymer nanoparticles (BPNs) derived from the condensation reaction between catechol and boronic monomers. The morphology, surface area and heteroatom (viz. B and N) content of the CNBs can be easily adjusted by altering the molar ratio between catechol and boronic monomers. The supercapacitor and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance of the CNBs are optimized. CNBs derived from equal molar ratio of catechol and boronic monomers exhibit favorable performance for supercapacitor, featuring a specific capacitance of up to 299.4 F/g at 0.2 A/g, an improved rate capability and excellent cycle stability. Notably, CNBs prepared using 1/2 molar ratio of catechol to boronic monomers show excellent ORR performance, as they demonstrate good electrocatalytic activity, high tolerance for methanol and long durability. Our findings may be of interest in the design of carbon materials with optimized electrochemical properties through the control over surface area and the content of heteroatom.

  2. Is The Oxygen Decreasing In The Mediterranean Sea ?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El Boukhary, M. S.; Ruiz-Pino, D.; Béthoux, J. P.

    The Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by more than 300 million of inhabitants, is sub- jected to strong environmental perturbations. The nutrients (phosphorus, P and nitro- gen, N) external inputs increases by 3 % per year since the 1960s as a consequence of the local industrial and agricultural activities. Its led the increases of : deep P con- centrations (0.53 % per year) and N (0.56 % per year), new or exported production and the modifications of molar ratios in the Western basin (Béthoux et al., 2001). P/N/Si/C is about 1/22/21/154 in this basin; instead the classic world ocean molar ratio of 1/16/15/106. Associated to these biogeochemical changes, a drastic increase of the quantity of deep water formed in the Aegean Sea (Roether et al., 1996 ; Klein et al., 1999) has been occurred since 1988 probably induced by the climatic pertur- bation (Lascaratos et al., 1999). Both modifications, nutrients and circulation would lead to important changes in the oxygen content of Mediterranean deep waters. The long-term trends of the oxygen content were estimated by using the historical data existing between 1960 and 2000 in the following basins : Alboran, Algero Provençal, Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Levantine, Adriatic and Aegean (SELMEDAR, Ifremer database), MAST European program). A statistical treatment allowed simultaneously to define the confidence interval of the data distributed in different layers (surface (100 m), in- termediate (500 m), deep (1200 m) and very deep), and to estimate the significativity of the long term trend variation. A significant decrease (~0.2 % per year) of the oxy- gen is detectable in deep Alboran sea only. This intense oxygen decrease would be linked to the strong quantity of carbon which deposit in this sea, consequence of the intense primary productivity. The absence of the oxygen decrease in the other Mediter- ranean basins, in spite of the increases of exported production, could be connected to a more important contribution of oxygen during the Mediterranean deep water forma- tion compared to the oxygen consumed during the remineralization. The thermohaline circulation changes affect considerably the oxygen trends in both Western and Eastern basins. Then, that no decrease had been revealed in the Algero Provençal basin before 1988, it is a decrease of about 0.6 % per year that is estimated after this period. This decrease, would be the consequence of a contribution of an oxygen impoverished Lev- antine water; associated probably to the upwelling intensification (Lascaratos et al., 1999). At the contrary, in the Eastern basin, an oxygen increase from 0.3 to 1.3 % per year are respectively estimated for the Ionian and Levantine very deep waters. These two changes are associated to the oxygen input coming from the Aegean Sea new deep 1 water also. All these variations of the deep waters oxygen content affect considerably the remineralization and the preservation of the organic matter. The marked decrease in the Alboran sea would be in agreement with a very marked presence of sapropels in this basin from the late Pliocene to the Holocene (Béthoux and Pierre, 1999). The oxygen increase in the Eastern basin following the intensification of the deep water formation suggests a present trend which is opposite to the sapropel periods 2

  3. Is The Oxygen Decreasing In The Mediterranean Sea ?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El Boukhary, M. S.; Ruiz-Pino, D.; Béthoux, J. P.

    The Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by more than 300 million of inhabitants, is sub- jected to strong environmental perturbations. The nutrients (phosphorus, P and nitro- gen, N) external inputs increases by 3 % per year since the 1960s as a consequence of the local industrial and agricultural activities. Its led the increases of : deep P con- centrations (0.53 % per year) and N (0.56 % per year), new or exported production and the modifications of molar ratios in the Western basin (Béthoux et al., 2001). P/N/Si/C is about 1/22/21/154 in this basin; instead the classic world ocean molar ratio of 1/16/15/106. Associated to these biogeochemical changes, a drastic increase of the quantity of deep water formed in the Aegean Sea (Roether et al., 1996 ; Klein et al., 1999) has been occurred since 1988 probably induced by the climatic pertur- bation (Lascaratos et al., 1999). Both modifications, nutrients and circulation would lead to important changes in the oxygen content of Mediterranean deep waters. The long-term trends of the oxygen content were estimated by using the historical data existing between 1960 and 2000 in the following basins : Alboran, Algero Provençal, Tyrrhenian, Ionian, Levantine, Adriatic and Aegean (SELMEDAR, Ifremer database), MAST European program). A statistical treatment allowed simultaneously to define the confidence interval of the data distributed in different layers (surface (100 m), in- termediate (500 m), deep (1200 m) and very deep), and to estimate the significativity of the long term trend variation. A significant decrease (~0.2 % per year) of the oxy- gen is detectable in deep Alboran sea only. This intense oxygen decrease would be linked to the strong quantity of carbon which deposit in this sea, consequence of the intense primary productivity. The absence of the oxygen decrease in the other Mediter- ranean basins, in spite of the increases of exported production, could be connected to a more important contribution of oxygen during the Mediterranean deep water forma- tion compared to the oxygen consumed during the remineralization. The thermohaline circulation changes affect considerably the oxygen trends in both Western and Eastern basins. Then, that no decrease had been revealed in the Algero Provençal basin before 1988, it is a decrease of about 0.6 % per year that is estimated after this period. This decrease, would be the consequence of a contribution of an oxygen impoverished Lev- antine water; associated probably to the upwelling intensification (Lascaratos et al., 1999). At the contrary, in the Eastern basin, an oxygen increase from 0.3 to 1.3 % per year are respectively estimated for the Ionian and Levantine very deep waters. These two changes are associated to the oxygen input coming from the Aegean Sea new deep 1 water also. All these variations of the deep waters oxygen content affect considerably the remineralization and the preservation of the organic matter. The marked decrease in the Alboran sea would be in agreement with a very marked presence of sapropels in this basin from the late Pliocene to the Holocene (Béthoux and Pierre, 1999). The oxygen increase in the Eastern basin following the intensification of the deep water formation suggests a present trend which is opposite to the sapropel periods. 2

  4. Impact of Sampling and Cellular Separation on Amino Acid Determinations in Drosophila Hemolymph.

    PubMed

    Cabay, Marissa R; Harris, Jasmine C; Shippy, Scott A

    2018-04-03

    The fruit fly is a frequently used model system with a high degree of human disease-related genetic homology. The quantitative chemical analysis of fruit fly tissues and hemolymph uniquely brings chemical signaling and compositional information to fly experimentation. The work here explores the impact of measured chemical content of hemolymph with three aspects of sample collection and preparation. Cellular content of hemolymph was quantitated and removed to determine hemolymph composition changes for seven primary amine analytes. Hemolymph sampling methods were adapted to determine differences in primary amine composition of hemolymph collected from the head, antenna, and abdomen. Also, three types of anesthesia were employed with hemolymph collection to quantitate effects on measured amino acid content. Cell content was found to be 45.4 ± 22.1 cells/nL of hemolymph collected from both adult and larvae flies. Cell-concentrated fractions of adult, but not larvae, hemolymph were found to have higher and more variable amine content. There were amino acid content differences found between all three areas indicating a robust method to characterize chemical markers from specific regions of a fly, and these appear related to physiological activity. Methods of anesthesia have an impact on hemolymph amino acid composition related to overall physiological impact to fly including higher amino acid content variability and oxygen deprivation effects. Together, these analyses identify potential complications with Drosophila hemolymph analysis and opportunities for future studies to relate hemolymph content with model physiological activity.

  5. The effect of hyperbaric oxygen treatment on aspiration pneumonia.

    PubMed

    Sahin, Sevtap Hekimoglu; Kanter, Mehmet; Ayvaz, Suleyman; Colak, Alkin; Aksu, Burhan; Guzel, Ahmet; Basaran, Umit Nusret; Erboga, Mustafa; Ozcan, Ali

    2011-08-01

    We have studied whether hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) prevents different pulmonary aspiration materials-induced lung injury in rats. The experiments were designed in 60 Sprague-Dawley rats, ranging in weight from 250 to 300 g, randomly allotted into one of six groups (n = 10): saline control, Biosorb Energy Plus (BIO), hydrochloric acid (HCl), saline + HBO treated, BIO + HBO treated, and HCl + HBO treated. Saline, BIO, HCl were injected into the lungs in a volume of 2 ml/kg. A total of seven HBO sessions were performed at 2,4 atm 100% oxygen for 90 min at 6-h intervals. Seven days later, rats were sacrificed, and both lungs in all groups were examined biochemically and histopathologically. Our findings show that HBO inhibits the inflammatory response reducing significantly (P < 0.05) peribronchial inflammatory cell infiltration, alveolar septal infiltration, alveolar edema, alveolar exudate, alveolar histiocytes, interstitial fibrosis, granuloma, and necrosis formation in different pulmonary aspiration models. Pulmonar aspiration significantly increased the tissue HP content, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased (P < 0.05) the antioxidant enzyme (SOD, GSH-Px) activities. HBO treatment significantly (P < 0.05) decreased the elevated tissue HP content, and MDA levels and prevented inhibition of SOD, and GSH-Px (P < 0.05) enzymes in the tissues. Furthermore, there is a significant reduction in the activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase, TUNEL and arise in the expression of surfactant protein D in lung tissue of different pulmonary aspiration models with HBO therapy. It was concluded that HBO treatment might be beneficial in lung injury, therefore, shows potential for clinical use.

  6. 40 CFR 60.284 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... provisions of § 60.283(a)(1)(v) apply shall not be corrected for oxygen content: C corr = C meas × (21− X... dry basis and the percent of oxygen by volume on a dry basis in the gases discharged into the... percent oxygen for the continuous oxygen monitoring system. (b) Any owner or operator subject to the...

  7. 40 CFR 60.284 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... provisions of § 60.283(a)(1)(v) apply shall not be corrected for oxygen content: C corr=C meas×(21−X/21−Y... dry basis and the percent of oxygen by volume on a dry basis in the gases discharged into the... percent oxygen for the continuous oxygen monitoring system. (b) Any owner or operator subject to the...

  8. 40 CFR 60.284 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... provisions of § 60.283(a)(1)(v) apply shall not be corrected for oxygen content: C corr=C meas×(21−X/21−Y... dry basis and the percent of oxygen by volume on a dry basis in the gases discharged into the... percent oxygen for the continuous oxygen monitoring system. (b) Any owner or operator subject to the...

  9. 40 CFR 60.284 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... provisions of § 60.283(a)(1)(v) apply shall not be corrected for oxygen content: C corr=C meas×(21−X/21−Y... dry basis and the percent of oxygen by volume on a dry basis in the gases discharged into the... percent oxygen for the continuous oxygen monitoring system. (b) Any owner or operator subject to the...

  10. 40 CFR 60.284 - Monitoring of emissions and operations.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... provisions of § 60.283(a)(1)(v) apply shall not be corrected for oxygen content: C corr=C meas×(21−X/21−Y... dry basis and the percent of oxygen by volume on a dry basis in the gases discharged into the... percent oxygen for the continuous oxygen monitoring system. (b) Any owner or operator subject to the...

  11. The inhibitory effect of Mesembryanthemum edule (L.) bolus essential oil on some pathogenic fungal isolates

    PubMed Central

    2014-01-01

    Background Mesembryanthemum edule is a medicinal plant which has been indicated by Xhosa traditional healers in the treatment HIV associated diseases such as tuberculosis, dysentery, diabetic mellitus, laryngitis, mouth infections, ringworm eczema and vaginal infections. The investigation of the essential oil of this plant could help to verify the rationale behind the use of the plant as a cure for these illnesses. Methods The essential oil from M. edule was analysed by GC/MS. Concentration ranging from 0.005 - 5 mg/ml of the hydro-distilled essential oil was tested against some fungal strains, using micro-dilution method. The plant minimum inhibitory activity on the fungal strains was determined. Result GC/MS analysis of the essential oil resulted in the identification of 28 compounds representing 99.99% of the total essential oil. A total amount of 10.6 and 36.61% constituents were obtained as monoterpenes and oxygenated monoterpenes. The amount of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (3.58%) was low compared to the oxygenated sesquiterpenes with pick area of 9.28%. Total oil content of diterpenes and oxygenated diterpenes detected from the essential oil were 1.43% and 19.24%. The fatty acids and their methyl esters content present in the essential oil extract were found to be 19.25%. Antifungal activity of the essential oil extract tested against the pathogenic fungal, inhibited C. albican, C. krusei, C. rugosa, C. glabrata and C. neoformans with MICs range of 0.02-0.31 mg/ml. the activity of the essential oil was found competing with nystatin and amphotericin B used as control. Conclusion Having accounted the profile chemical constituent found in M. edule oil and its important antifungal properties, we consider that its essential oil might be useful in pharmaceutical and food industry as natural antibiotic and food preservative. PMID:24885234

  12. The impact of gallium content on degradation, bioactivity, and antibacterial potency of zinc borate bioactive glass.

    PubMed

    Rahimnejad Yazdi, Alireza; Torkan, Lawrence; Stone, Wendy; Towler, Mark R

    2018-01-01

    Zinc borate glasses with increasing gallium content (0, 2.5, 5, 10, and 15 Wt % Ga) were synthesized and their degradation, bioactivity in simulated body fluid (SBF), and antibacterial properties were investigated. ICP measurements showed that increased gallium content in the glass resulted in increased gallium ion release and decreased release of other ions. Degradability declined with the addition of gallium, indicating the formation of more symmetric BO 3 units with three bridging oxygens and asymmetric BO 3 units with two bridging oxygens in the glass network as the gallium content in the series increased. The formation of amorphous CaP on the glass surface after 24 h of incubation in SBF was confirmed by SEM, XRD, and FTIR analyses. Finally, antibacterial evaluation of the glasses using the agar disc-diffusion method demonstrated that the addition of gallium increased the antibacterial potency of the glasses against P. aeruginosa (Gram-negative) while decreasing it against S. epidermidis (Gram-positive); considering the ion release trends, this indicates that the gallium ion is responsible for the glasses' antibacterial behavior against P. aeruginosa while the zinc ion controls the antibacterial activity against S. epidermidis. The statistical significance of the observed trends in the measurements were confirmed by applying the Kruskal-Wallis H Test. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 106B: 367-376, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  13. Diffuse optical spectroscopy monitoring of oxygen state and hemoglobin concentration during SKBR-3 tumor model growth

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Orlova, A. G.; Kirillin, M. Yu; Volovetsky, A. B.; Shilyagina, N. Yu; Sergeeva, E. A.; Golubiatnikov, G. Yu; Turchin, I. V.

    2017-01-01

    Tumor oxygenation and hemoglobin content are the key indicators of the tumor status which can be efficiently employed for prognosis of tumor development and choice of treatment strategy. We report on monitoring of these parameters in SKBR-3 (human breast adenocarcinoma) tumors established as subcutaneous tumor xenografts in athymic nude mice by diffuse optical spectroscopy (DOS). A simple continuous wave fiber probe DOS system is employed. Optical properties extraction approach is based on diffusion approximation. Statistically significant difference between measured values of normal tissue and tumor are demonstrated. Hemoglobin content in tumor increases from 7.0  ±  4.2 μM to 30.1  ±  16.1 μM with tumor growth from 150  ±  80 mm3 to 1300  ±  650 mm3 which is determined by gradual increase of deoxyhemoglobin content while measured oxyhemoglobin content does not demonstrate any statistically significant variations. Oxygenation in tumor falls quickly from 52.8  ±  24.7% to 20.2  ±  4.8% preceding acceleration of tumor growth. Statistical analysis indicated dependence of oxy-, deoxy- and total hemoglobin on tumor volume (p  <  0.01). DOS measurements of oxygen saturation are in agreement with independent measurements of oxygen partial pressure by polarography (Pearson’s correlation coefficient equals 0.8).

  14. Influence of argon and oxygen pressure ratio on bipolar-resistive switching characteristics of CeO2- x thin films deposited at room temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ismail, Muhammad; Ullah, Rehmat; Hussain, Riaz; Talib, Ijaz; Rana, Anwar Manzoor; Hussain, Muhammad; Mahmood, Khalid; Hussain, Fayyaz; Ahmed, Ejaz; Bao, Dinghua

    2018-02-01

    Cerium oxide (CeO2-x) film was deposited on Pt/Ti/SiO2/Si substrate by rf magnetron sputtering at room temperature. Resistive switching characteristics of these ceria films have been improved by increasing oxygen content during deposition process. Endurance and statistical analyses indicate that the operating stability of CeO2-x-based memory is highly dependent on the oxygen content. Results indicate that CeO2-x film-based RRAM devices exhibit optimum performance when fabricated at an argon/oxygen ratio of 6:24. An increase in the oxygen content introduced during CeO2-x film deposition not only stabilizes the conventional bipolar RS but also improves excellent switching uniformity such as large ON/OFF ratio (102), excellent switching device-to-device uniformity and good sweep endurance over 500 repeated RS cycles. Conduction in the low-resistance state (LRS) as well as in the low bias field region in the high-resistance state (HRS) is found to be Ohmic and thus supports the conductive filament (CF) theory. In the high voltage region of HRS, space charge limited conduction (SCLC) and Schottky emission are found to be the dominant conduction mechanisms. A feasible filamentary RS mechanism based on the movement of oxygen ions/vacancies under the bias voltage has been discussed.

  15. Exogenous calcium induces tolerance to atrazine stress in Pennisetum seedlings and promotes photosynthetic activity, antioxidant enzymes and psbA gene transcripts.

    PubMed

    Erinle, Kehinde Olajide; Jiang, Zhao; Ma, Bingbing; Li, Jinmei; Chen, Yukun; Ur-Rehman, Khalil; Shahla, Andleeb; Zhang, Ying

    2016-10-01

    Calcium (Ca) has been reported to lessen oxidative damages in plants by upregulating the activities of antioxidant enzymes. However, atrazine mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction by Ca is limited. This study therefore investigated the effect of exogenously applied Ca on ROS, antioxidants activity and gene transcripts, the D1 protein (psbA gene), and chlorophyll contents in Pennisetum seedlings pre-treated with atrazine. Atrazine toxicity increased ROS production and enzyme activities (ascorbate peroxidase APX, peroxidase POD, Superoxide dismutase SOD, glutathione-S-transferase GST); but decreased antioxidants (APX, POD, and Cu/Zn SOD) and psbA gene transcripts. Atrazine also decreased the chlorophyll contents, but increased chlorophyll (a/b) ratio. Contrarily, Ca application to atrazine pre-treated seedlings lowered the harmful effects of atrazine by reducing ROS levels, but enhancing the accumulation of total chlorophyll contents. Ca-protected seedlings in the presence of atrazine manifested reduced APX and POD activity, whereas SOD and GST activity was further increased with Ca application. Antioxidant gene transcripts that were down-regulated by atrazine toxicity were up-regulated with the application of Ca. Calcium application also resulted in up-regulation of the D1 protein. In conclusion, ability of calcium to reverse atrazine-induced oxidative damage and calcium regulatory role on GST in Pennisetum was presented. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  16. Effect of kilning on the antioxidant and pro-oxidant activities of pale malts.

    PubMed

    Woffenden, Helen M; Ames, Jennifer M; Chandra, Sachin; Anese, Monica; Nicoli, M Cristina

    2002-08-14

    Pale malts were prepared using standard and rapid kilning regimes that differed in the temperature and moisture profiles in the kiln. Samples were taken over the last 9 h of kilning, that is, at 18, 20, 22, 25, and 27 h. Antioxidant activity, assessed by redox potential, scavenging of the 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical cation (ABTS*+), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP), increased at moisture levels below 6.7% for both regimes. The 27 h malt exposed to the rapid regime (moisture content of 4.8%) had a higher activity than the 27 h standard regime sample (moisture content of 4.8%). None of the malts scavenged oxygen. Pro-oxidant activity profiles were different for the malts obtained using each regime and, at 27 h, the rapid procedure gave malt with higher activity. Levels of (+)-catechin and ferulic acid (the most abundant phenolic compounds identified) generally increased as the moisture content of malt fell below 6.7%. Differences in antioxidant and pro-oxidant activities of the 27 h malts are partly attributed to the Maillard reaction, as evidenced by lower L* and higher b* values and higher levels of Maillard-derived flavor compounds, in the sample obtained by the rapid procedure. Levels of lipid-derived flavor compounds were significantly higher after 27 h of kilning using the rapid procedure.

  17. Effects of temperature and dissolved oxygen on Se(IV) removal and Se(0) precipitation by Shewanella sp. HN-41.

    PubMed

    Lee, Ji-Hoon; Han, Jaehong; Choi, Heechul; Hur, Hor-Gil

    2007-08-01

    Facultative anaerobic Shewanella sp. strain HN-41 was able to utilize selenite (Se(IV)) as a sole electron acceptor for respiration in anaerobic condition, resulting in reduction of Se(IV) and then precipitation of elemental Se nano-sized spherical particles, which were identified using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy. When the effects on Se(IV) reduction to elemental Se were studied by varying incubation temperatures and dissolved oxygen contents, Se(IV) reduction occurred more actively with higher removal rate of Se(IV) in aqueous phase and well-shaped spherical Se(0) nanoparticles were formed from the incubations under N(2) (100%) or N(2):O(2) (80%:20%) at 30 degrees C with average diameter values of 181+/-40 nm and 164+/-24 nm, respectively, while relatively less amounts of irregular-shaped Se(0) nanoparticles were produced with negligible amount of Se(IV) reduction and removal under 100% of O(2). The Se particle size distributions based on scanning electron microscopy also showed a general tendency towards decreased Se particle size as oxygen content increased, whereas the particle size seemed uncorrelated to the change in the incubation temperature. These results also suggest that the size-controlled biological Se(0) nanospheres production may be achieved simply by changing the culture conditions.

  18. Molten salt synthesis of nitrogen and oxygen enriched hierarchically porous carbons derived from biomass via rapid microwave carbonization for high voltage supercapacitors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cheng, Yinfeng; Li, Baoqiang; Huang, Yanjuan; Wang, Yaming; Chen, Junchen; Wei, Daqing; Feng, Yujie; Jia, Dechang; Zhou, Yu

    2018-05-01

    Nitrogen and oxygen enriched hierarchically porous carbons (NOHPCs) derived from biomass have been successfully prepared by rapid microwave carbonization coupled with molten salt synthesis method in only 4 min. ZnCl2 plays important roles as microwave absorber, chemical activation agent and porogen in this process. NOHPC-1:10 sample possesses the maximum specific surface area of 1899 m2 g-1 with a pore volume of 1.16 cm3 g-1 and mesopore ratio of 70%, as well as nitrogen content of 5.30 wt% and oxygen content of 14.12 wt%. When evaluated as an electrode in a three-electrode system with 6 M KOH electrolyte, the material exhibits a high specific capacitance of 276 F g-1 at 0.2 A g-1, with a good rate capability of 90.9% retention at 10 A g-1. More importantly, the symmetric supercapacitor based on NOHPC-1:10 in 1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte exhibits a high energy density of 13.9 Wh kg-1 at a power density of 120 W kg-1 in a wide voltage window of 0-1.6 V, an excellent cycling stability with 95% of capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles. Our strategy provides a facile and rapid way for the preparation of advanced carbon materials derived from biomass towards energy storage applications.

  19. Phase transformations of siderite ore by the thermomagnetic analysis data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ponomar, V. P.; Dudchenko, N. O.; Brik, A. B.

    2017-02-01

    Thermal decomposition of Bakal siderite ore (that consists of magnesium siderite and ankerite traces) was investigated by thermomagnetic analysis. Thermomagnetic analysis was carried-out using laboratory-built facility that allows automatic registration of sample magnetization with the temperature (heating/cooling rate was 65°/min, maximum temperature 650 °C) at low- and high-oxygen content. Curie temperature gradually decreases with each next cycles of heating/cooling at low-oxygen content. Curie temperature decrease after 2nd cycle of heating/cooling at high-oxygen content and do not change with next cycles. Final Curie temperature for both modes was 320 °C. Saturation magnetization of obtained samples increases up to 20 Am2/kg. The final product of phase transformation at both modes was magnesioferrite. It was shown that intermediate phase of thermal decomposition of Bakal siderite ore was magnesiowustite.

  20. Oxygen sensitive, refractory oxide composition

    DOEpatents

    Holcombe, Jr., Cressie E.; Smith, Douglas D.

    1976-01-01

    Oxide compositions containing niobium pentoxide and an oxide selected from the group consisting of hafnia, titania, and zirconia have electrical conductivity characteristics which vary greatly depending on the oxygen content.

  1. [The ability of cells to adjust to the low oxigen content associated with Na,K-ATPase glutationilation].

    PubMed

    Petrushanko, I Iu; Simonenko, O V; Burnysheva, K M; Klimanova, E A; Dergousova, E A; Mit'kevich, V A; Lopina, O D; Makarov, A A

    2015-01-01

    Decreasing the amount of oxygen in the tissues under hypoxic and ischemic conditions, observed at a number of pathologic processes, inevitably leads to their damage. One of the main causes of cell damage and death is a violation of the systems maintaining ionic balance. Na,K-ATPaseis a basic ion-transporting protein of animal cell plasma membrane and inhibition of the Na,K-ATPase activity at lower concentrations of oxygen is one of the earliest and most critical events for cell viability. Currently there is an active search for modulators of Na,K-ATPase activity. For this purpose traditionally used cardiac glycosides but the existence of serious adverse effects forced to look for alternative inhibitors of Na,K-ATPase. Previously we have found that the glutathionylation of Na,K-ATPase catalytic subunit leads to a complete-inhibition of the enzyme. In this paper it is shown that the agents which increase the level of Na,K-ATPase glutathionylation: ethyl glutathione (et-GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), increase cell survival under oxygen deficiency conditions, prevent decline of ATP in the cells and normalize their redox status. Concentration range in which these substances have a maximum protective effect, and does not exhibit cytotoxic properties was defined: for et-GSH 0.2-0.5 mM, for GSSG 0.2-1 mM, for NAC 10 to 15 mM. The results show prospects for development of methods for tissues protection from damage caused by oxygen starvation by varying the degree of Na,K-ATPase glutathionylation.

  2. Activated carbon derived from chitosan as air cathode catalyst for high performance in microbial fuel cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yi; Zhao, Yong; Li, Kexun; Wang, Zhong; Tian, Pei; Liu, Di; Yang, Tingting; Wang, Junjie

    2018-02-01

    Chitosan with rich of nitrogen is used as carbon precursor to synthesis activated carbon through directly heating method in this study. The obtained carbon is activated by different amount of KOH at different temperatures, and then prepared as air cathodes for microbial fuel cells. Carbon sample treated with double amount of KOH at 850 °C exhibits maximum power density (1435 ± 46 mW m-2), 1.01 times improved, which ascribes to the highest total surface area, moderate micropore and mesoporous structure and the introduction of nitrogen. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and powder resistivity state that carbon treated with double amount of KOH at 850 °C possesses lower resistance. The other electrochemical measurements demonstrate that the best kinetic activity make the above treated sample to show the best oxygen reduction reaction activity. Besides, the degree of graphitization of samples increases with the activated temperature increasing, which is tested by Raman. According to elemental analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, all chitosan samples are nitrogen-doped carbon, and high content nitrogen (pyridinic-N) improves the electrochemical activity of carbon treated with KOH at 850 °C. Thus, carbon materials derived from chitosan would be an optimized catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction in microbial fuel cell.

  3. Combined Effects of Lanthanum (III) and Acid Rain on Antioxidant Enzyme System in Soybean Roots.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Xuanbo; Du, Yuping; Wang, Lihong; Zhou, Qing; Huang, Xiaohua; Sun, Zhaoguo

    2015-01-01

    Rare earth element pollution (REEs) and acid rain (AR) pollution simultaneously occur in many regions, which resulted in a new environmental issue, the combined pollution of REEs and AR. The effects of the combined pollution on the antioxidant enzyme system of plant roots have not been reported. Here, the combined effects of lanthanum ion (La3+), one type of REE, and AR on the antioxidant enzyme system of soybean roots were investigated. In the combined treatment of La3+ (0.08 mM) and AR, the cell membrane permeability and the peroxidation of cell membrane lipid of soybean roots increased, and the superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and reduced ascorbic acid served as scavengers of reactive oxygen species. In other combined treatments of La3+ (0.40 mM, 1.20 mM) and AR, the membrane permeability, malonyldialdehyde content, superoxide dismutase activity, peroxidase activity and reduced ascorbic acid content increased, while the catalase activity decreased. The increased superoxide dismutase activity, peroxidase activity and reduced ascorbic acid content were inadequate to scavenge the excess hydrogen peroxide and superoxide, leading to the damage of the cell membrane, which was aggravated with the increase in the concentration of La3+ and the level of AR. The deleterious effects of the combined treatment of La3+ and AR were stronger than those of the single treatment of La3+ or AR. Moreover, the activity of antioxidant enzyme system in the combined treatment group was affected directly and indirectly by mineral element content in soybean plants.

  4. Combined Effects of Lanthanum (III) and Acid Rain on Antioxidant Enzyme System in Soybean Roots

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Xuanbo; Du, Yuping; Wang, Lihong; Zhou, Qing; Huang, Xiaohua; Sun, Zhaoguo

    2015-01-01

    Rare earth element pollution (REEs) and acid rain (AR) pollution simultaneously occur in many regions, which resulted in a new environmental issue, the combined pollution of REEs and AR. The effects of the combined pollution on the antioxidant enzyme system of plant roots have not been reported. Here, the combined effects of lanthanum ion (La3+), one type of REE, and AR on the antioxidant enzyme system of soybean roots were investigated. In the combined treatment of La3+ (0.08 mM) and AR, the cell membrane permeability and the peroxidation of cell membrane lipid of soybean roots increased, and the superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and reduced ascorbic acid served as scavengers of reactive oxygen species. In other combined treatments of La3+ (0.40 mM, 1.20 mM) and AR, the membrane permeability, malonyldialdehyde content, superoxide dismutase activity, peroxidase activity and reduced ascorbic acid content increased, while the catalase activity decreased. The increased superoxide dismutase activity, peroxidase activity and reduced ascorbic acid content were inadequate to scavenge the excess hydrogen peroxide and superoxide, leading to the damage of the cell membrane, which was aggravated with the increase in the concentration of La3+ and the level of AR. The deleterious effects of the combined treatment of La3+ and AR were stronger than those of the single treatment of La3+ or AR. Moreover, the activity of antioxidant enzyme system in the combined treatment group was affected directly and indirectly by mineral element content in soybean plants. PMID:26230263

  5. Research on the effect of culture time on the kombucha tea beverage's antiradical capacity and sensory value.

    PubMed

    Gramza-Michałowska, Anna; Kulczyński, Bartosz; Xindi, Yuan; Gumienna, Małgorzata

    2016-01-01

    Recent consumption trends shows high consumer acceptability and growing medicinal interest in the biological value of kombucha tea. This tea is a sweetened tea leaf brew fermented with a layer containing mainly acetic acid bacteria, yeast and lactic acid bacteria. The main antioxidants in tea leaves are polyphenols, the consumption of which is proven to be beneficial for human health, e.g. protecting from reactive oxygen species (ROS). The aim of the present research was to evaluate antiradical activity, total polyphenol content (TPC) and sensory value of kombucha tea brews. In the present study, Kombucha tea beverages were analyzed for TPC content, DPPH radical scavenging method and sensory value. The highest TPC content and DPPH radical scavenging capacity values were evaluated in yellow tea samples, both unfermented and kombucha, which did not differ within the storage time. The results of sensory evaluations of kombucha tea brews depend on the tea leaf variety used for preparing the drink. Research indicates that the fermentation process of tea brews with kombucha microbiota does not affect significantly its polyphenol content and antiradical capacity, and retains its components' biological activity.

  6. Intramyocardial oxygen transport by quantitative diffuse reflectance spectroscopy in calves

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lindbergh, Tobias; Larsson, Marcus; Szabó, Zoltán; Casimir-Ahn, Henrik; Strömberg, Tomas

    2010-03-01

    Intramyocardial oxygen transport was assessed during open-chest surgery in calves by diffuse reflectance spectroscopy using a small intramuscular fiber-optic probe. The sum of hemo- and myoglobin tissue fraction and oxygen saturation, the tissue fraction and oxidation of cytochrome aa3, and the tissue fraction of methemoglobin were estimated using a calibrated empirical light transport model. Increasing the oxygen content in the inhaled gas, 21%-50%-100%, in five calves (group A) gave an increasing oxygen saturation of 19+/-4%, 24+/-5%, and 28+/-8% (p<0.001, ANOVA repeated measures design) and mean tissue fractions of 1.6% (cytochrome aa3) and 1.1% (hemo- and myoglobin). Cardiac arrest in two calves gave an oxygen saturation lower than 5%. In two calves (group B), a left ventricular assistive device (LVAD pump) was implanted. Oxygen saturation in group B animals increased with LVAD pump speed (p<0.001, ANOVA) and with oxygen content in inhaled gas (p<0.001, ANOVA). The cytochrome aa3 oxidation level was above 96% in both group A and group B calves, including the two cases involving cardiac arrest. In conclusion, the estimated tissue fractions and oxygenation/oxidation levels of the myocardial chromophores during respiratory and hemodynamic provocations were in agreement with previously presented results, demonstrating the potential of the method.

  7. Improvements in exercise performance with high-intensity interval training coincide with an increase in skeletal muscle mitochondrial content and function.

    PubMed

    Jacobs, Robert Acton; Flück, Daniela; Bonne, Thomas Christian; Bürgi, Simon; Christensen, Peter Møller; Toigo, Marco; Lundby, Carsten

    2013-09-01

    Six sessions of high-intensity interval training (HIT) are sufficient to improve exercise capacity. The mechanisms explaining such improvements are unclear. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of physiologically relevant adaptations occurring after six sessions of HIT to determine the mechanisms explaining improvements in exercise performance. Sixteen untrained (43 ± 6 ml·kg(-1)·min(-1)) subjects completed six sessions of repeated (8-12) 60 s intervals of high-intensity cycling (100% peak power output elicited during incremental maximal exercise test) intermixed with 75 s of recovery cycling at a low intensity (30 W) over a 2-wk period. Potential training-induced alterations in skeletal muscle respiratory capacity, mitochondrial content, skeletal muscle oxygenation, cardiac capacity, blood volumes, and peripheral fatigue resistance were all assessed prior to and again following training. Maximal measures of oxygen uptake (Vo2peak; ∼8%; P = 0.026) and cycling time to complete a set amount of work (∼5%; P = 0.008) improved. Skeletal muscle respiratory capacities increased, most likely as a result of an expansion of skeletal muscle mitochondria (∼20%, P = 0.026), as assessed by cytochrome c oxidase activity. Skeletal muscle deoxygenation also increased while maximal cardiac output, total hemoglobin, plasma volume, total blood volume, and relative measures of peripheral fatigue resistance were all unaltered with training. These results suggest that increases in mitochondrial content following six HIT sessions may facilitate improvements in respiratory capacity and oxygen extraction, and ultimately are responsible for the improvements in maximal whole body exercise capacity and endurance performance in previously untrained individuals.

  8. Mechanism and Microstructure of Oxide Fluxes for Gas Tungsten Arc Welding of Magnesium Alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, L. M.; Zhang, Z. D.; Song, G.; Wang, L.

    2007-03-01

    Five single oxide fluxes—MgO, CaO, TiO2, MnO2, and Cr2O3—were used to investigate the effect of active flux on the depth/width ratio in AZ31B magnesium alloy. The microstructure and mechanical property of the tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding seam were studied. The oxygen content in the weld seam and the arc images during the TIG welding process were analyzed. A series of emission spectroscopy of weld arc for TIG welding for magnesium with and without flux were developed. The results showed that for the five single oxide fluxes, all can increase the weld penetration effectively and grain size in the weld seam of alternating current tungsten inert gas (ACTIG) welding of the Mg alloy. The oxygen content of the welds made without flux is not very different from those produced with oxide fluxes not considering trapped oxide. However, welds that have the best penetration have a relatively higher oxygen content among those produced with flux. It was found that the arc images with the oxide fluxes were only the enlarged form of the arc images without flux; the arc constriction was not observed. The detection of arc spectroscopy showed that the metal elements in the oxides exist as the neutral atom or the first cation in the weld arc. This finding would influence the arc properties. When TIG simulation was carried out on a plate with flux applied only on one side, the arc image video showed an asymmetric arc, which deviated toward the flux free side. The thermal stability, the dissociation energy, and the electrical conductivity of oxide should be considered when studying the mechanism for increased TIG flux weld penetration.

  9. Biological effects of the electrostatic field: red blood cell-related alterations of oxidative processes in blood

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Harutyunyan, Hayk A.; Sahakyan, Gohar V.

    2016-01-01

    The aim of this study was to determine activities of pro-/antioxidant enzymes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and oxidative modification of proteins and lipids in red blood cells (RBCs) and blood plasma of rats exposed to electrostatic field (200 kV/m) during the short (1 h) and the long periods (6 day, 6 h daily). Short-term exposure was characterized by the increase of oxidatively damaged proteins in blood of rats. This was strongly expressed in RBC membranes. After long-term action, RBC content in peripheral blood was higher than in control ( P < 0.01) and the attenuation of prooxidant processes was shown.

  10. In vitro evaluation of the antioxidant potential, phenolic and flavonoid contents of the stem bark ethanol extract of Anogeissus leiocarpus.

    PubMed

    Olugbami, J O; Gbadegesin, M A; Odunola, O A

    2014-09-01

    Plant-derived antioxidants with free radical scavenging activities can be relevant as chemopreventive agents against the numerous diseases associated with free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Some phytoconstituents possess antioxidant activities in biological systems. On this basis, we evaluated the antioxidant potential, and determined the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the e thanol e xtract of the s tem bark of A nogeissus l eiocarpus [ EESAL ]. Antioxidant assays carried out include: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, phosphomolybdate, β-carotene bleaching, ferric reducing, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities. Results of DPPH assay showed no significant difference ( p < 0.001) between EESAL and butylated hydroxyanisole [BHA], while EESAL exhibited a significantly ( p < 0.001) higher activity than BHT [butylated hydroxytoluene]. Phosphomolybdate method recorded a total antioxidant capacity of 190.00 ± 70.53 µg butylated hydroxytoluene equivalents [BHTE]/mg dry extract, while β-carotene bleaching assay gave percent antioxidant activities of both EESAL and BHT as 81.46±1.62 and 80.90±1.39 respectively. Ferric reducing abilities of both EESAL and ascorbic acid increased in a concentration-dependent manner with EESAL displaying a significantly ( p < 0.001) higher reductive activity than vitamin C. EESAL displayed a significantly higher hydroxyl radical scavenging activity as compared with BHT at the lowest concentration with no significant difference at the highest concentration. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of EESAL were obtained as 608.10 ± 2.12 µg GAE/mg and 78.96 ± 3.37 µg QE/mg respectively. Taken together, the free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity of EESAL is likely due to its high phenolic content with complementary effects of the flavonoid components.

  11. [Change in the content of ATP and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate in the erythrocytes of rats adapted to hypoxia].

    PubMed

    Simanovskiĭ, L N

    1976-01-01

    It was shown that on the 30th-60th days of training rats to hypoxia under conditions of pressure chamber there was an increase in ATP and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate content in erythrocytes. By changing the affinity of hemoglobin to oxygen the mentioned shifts could play an important role in the improvement of oxygen supply to the tissues.

  12. Organic Waste Diversion Guidance for U.S. Army Installations

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-11-01

    Windrow temperature ; Windrow moisture content (lab test) stated as a percentage; Windrow pH level; Windrow oxygen content stated as a percentage...much higher turbidity (>999 nephelometric turbidity units [NTU] versus 30 NTU), less dis- solved oxygen (6.32 mg/L versus 7.59 mg/L), higher temperature ... effective ." A Net Zero Waste installation is an installation that reduces, reuses, and recovers waste streams, converting them to valuable

  13. The effect of Be and Cr electrode deposition rate on the performance of MIS solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moharram, A. H.; Panayotatos, P.; Yeh, J. L.; Lalevic, B.

    1985-07-01

    An experimental study has been performed on MIS solar cells with Be, Cr and layered Cr-Be electrodes on single crystal Si, Wacker and Monsanto poly-Si substrates. Electrical characterization in the dark and under illumination was correlated to X-ray and Auger spectroscopy results. It was found that the electrode deposition rate directly affects the oxygen content of the electrodes for all metal-substrate configurations. This oxygen is believed to originate from the deposition ambient as well as from the SiO2 layer. In the case of cells with Cr and layered Cr-Be electrodes oxygen acts to reduce the electrode work function (thus increasing the open-circuit voltage) in direct proportion to the relative content of oxygen to chromium.

  14. Catalytic biomass conversion methods, catalysts, and methods of making the same

    DOEpatents

    Delgass, William Nicholas; Agrawal, Rakesh; Ribeiro, Fabio Henrique; Saha, Basudeb; Yohe, Sara Lynn; Abu-Omar, Mahdi M; Parsell, Trenton; Dietrich, Paul James; Klein, Ian Michael

    2017-10-10

    Described herein are processes for one-step delignification and hydrodeoxygenation of lignin fraction a biomass feedstock. The lignin feedstock is derived from by-products of paper production and biorefineries. Additionally described is a process for converting biomass-derived oxygenates to lower oxygen-content compounds and/or hydrocarbons in the liquid or vapor phase in a reactor system containing hydrogen and a catalyst comprised of a hydrogenation function and/or an oxophilic function and/or an acid function. Finally, also described herein is a process for converting biomass-derived oxygenates to lower oxygen-content compounds and/or hydrocarbons in the liquid or vapor phase in a reactor system containing hydrogen and a catalyst comprised of a hydrogenation function and/or an oxophilic function and/or an acid function.

  15. Olivine-Orthopyroxene Equilibrium in Metal-rich Systems: Applications to Achondrites and Equilibrated Chondrites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lauretta, D. S.; Benedix, G. K.; McCoy, T. J.

    2003-01-01

    Olivine and orthopyroxene are major minerals in every type of stony meteorite. The majority of achondritic meteorites and silicate-bearing iron meteorites have experienced high temperatures. If these temperatures persisted for an extended period of time then the iron contents of olivine and orthopyroxene should be in equilibrium. In their study of ungrouped clasts and chondritic meteorites, suggested that the equilibrium compositions of olivine and orthopyroxene should fall on a mixing line between LL chondrites and aubrites. Here we show that this is not necessarily the case and that a range of FeO contents in olivine and orthopyroxene can be in equilibrium with each other. The key parameters that determine the equilibrium Fe content in these minerals are temperature, oxygen fugacity (fO2), and silica activity (aSiO2).

  16. 29 CFR 1910.272 - Grain handling facilities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ..., silo, or tank shall be tested for oxygen content unless there is continuous natural air movement or continuous forced-air ventilation before and during the period employees are inside. If the oxygen level is... toxicity, flammability, oxygen-deficiency, or other atmospheric hazards is covered by paragraph (h) of this...

  17. 29 CFR 1910.272 - Grain handling facilities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ..., silo, or tank shall be tested for oxygen content unless there is continuous natural air movement or continuous forced-air ventilation before and during the period employees are inside. If the oxygen level is... toxicity, flammability, oxygen-deficiency, or other atmospheric hazards is covered by paragraph (h) of this...

  18. Selection and preparation of activated carbon for fuel gas storage

    DOEpatents

    Schwarz, James A.; Noh, Joong S.; Agarwal, Rajiv K.

    1990-10-02

    Increasing the surface acidity of active carbons can lead to an increase in capacity for hydrogen adsorption. Increasing the surface basicity can facilitate methane adsorption. The treatment of carbons is most effective when the carbon source material is selected to have a low ash content i.e., below about 3%, and where the ash consists predominantly of alkali metals alkali earth, with only minimal amounts of transition metals and silicon. The carbon is washed in water or acid and then oxidized, e.g. in a stream of oxygen and an inert gas at an elevated temperature.

  19. Atomic Layer-by-Layer Deposition of Pt on Pd Nanocubes for Catalysts with Enhanced Activity and Durability toward Oxygen Reduction

    DOE PAGES

    Xie, Shuifen; Choi, Sang -Il; Lu, Ning; ...

    2014-05-05

    Here, an effective strategy for reducing the Pt content while retaining the activity of a Pt-based catalyst is to deposit the Pt atoms as ultrathin skins of only a few atomic layers thick on nanoscale substrates made of another metal. During deposition, however, the Pt atoms often take an island growth mode because of a strong bonding between Pt atoms. Here we report a versatile route to the conformal deposition of Pt as uniform, ultrathin shells on Pd nanocubes in a solution phase. The introduction of the Pt precursor at a relatively slow rate and high temperature allowed the depositedmore » Pt atoms to spread across the entire surface of a Pd nanocube to generate a uniform shell. The thickness of the Pt shell could be controlled from one to six atomic layers by varying the amount of Pt precursor added into the system. Compared to a commercial Pt/C catalyst, the Pd@Pt nL (n = 1–6) core–shell nanocubes showed enhancements in specific activity and durability toward the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations on model (100) surfaces suggest that the enhancement in specific activity can be attributed to the weakening of OH binding through ligand and strain effects, which, in turn, increases the rate of OH hydrogenation. A volcano-type relationship between the ORR specific activity and the number of Pt atomic layers was derived, in good agreement with the experimental results. Both theoretical and experimental studies indicate that the ORR specific activity was maximized for the catalysts based on Pd@Pt 2–3L nanocubes. Because of the reduction in Pt content used and the enhancement in specific activity, the Pd@Pt 1L nanocubes showed a Pt mass activity with almost three-fold enhancement relative to the Pt/C catalyst.« less

  20. [Accelerated senescence of fresh-cut Chinese water chestnut tissues in relation to hydrogen peroxide accumulation].

    PubMed

    Peng, Li-Tao; Jiang, Yue-Ming; Yang, Shu-Zhen; Pan, Si-Yi

    2005-10-01

    Accelerated senescence of fresh-cut Chinese water chestnut (CWC) tissues in relation to active oxygen species (AOS) metabolism was investigated. Fresh-cut CWC (2 mm thick) and intact CWC were stored at 4 degrees C in trays wrapped with plastic films. Changes in superoxide anion production rate, activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were monitored, while contents of hydrogen peroxide, ascorbic acid, MDA as well as electrolyte leakage were measured. Fresh-cutting of CWC induced activities of SOD, CAT and APX to a certain extent (Fig. 2B and Fig. 3), but simultaneously stimulated superoxide anion production markedly (Fig. 2A), enhanced hydrogen peroxide accumulation and accelerated loss in ascorbic acid (Figs. 4 and 5), which resulted in increased lipid peroxidation indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA) content and electrolyte leakage (Fig. 1). Statistics analysis indicated that there was a significantly positive correlation among hydrogen peroxide accumulation, MDA content and electrolyte leakage (Table 1). Histochemical detection with 3, 3'-diaminobenzidine further demonstrated that hydrogen peroxide accumulation increased in fresh-cut CWC during storage (Fig. 5). AOS production rate and activities of SOD, CAT and APX changed little while no obvious hydrogen peroxide accumulation was observed, in intact CWC during storage.

  1. Catalytic decomposition of gaseous 1,2-dichlorobenzene over CuOx/TiO₂ and CuOx/TiO₂-CNTs catalysts: Mechanism and PCDD/Fs formation.

    PubMed

    Wang, Qiu-lin; Huang, Qun-xing; Wu, Hui-fan; Lu, Sheng-yong; Wu, Hai-long; Li, Xiao-dong; Yan, Jian-hua

    2016-02-01

    Gaseous 1,2-dichlorobenzene (1,2-DCBz) was catalytically decomposed in a fixed-bed catalytic reactor using composite copper-based titanium oxide (CuOx/TiO2) catalysts with different copper ratios. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were introduced to produce novel CuOx/TiO2-CNTs catalysts by the sol-gel method. The catalytic performances of CuOx/TiO2 and CuOx/TiO2-CNTs on 1,2-DCBz oxidative destruction under different temperatures (150-350 °C) were experimentally examined and the correlation between catalyst structure and catalytic activity was characterized and the role of oxygen in catalytic reaction was discussed. Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) generation during 1,2-DCBz catalytic oxidation by CuOx/TiO2-CNTs composite catalyst was also examined. Results indicate that the 1,2-DCBz destruction/removal efficiencies of CuOx (4 wt%)/TiO2 catalyst at 150 °C and 350 °C with a GHSV of 3400 h(-1) are 59% and 94% respectively and low-temperature (150 °C) catalytic activity of CuOx/TiO2 on 1,2-DCBz oxidation can be improved from 59 to 77% when CNTs are introduced. Furthermore, oxygen either in catalyst or from reaction atmosphere is indispensible in reaction. The former is offered to activate and oxidize the 1,2-DCBz adsorbed on catalyst, thus can be generally consumed during reaction and the oxygen content in catalyst is observed lost from 39.9 to 35.0 wt% after reacting under inert atmosphere; the latter may replenish the vacancy in catalyst created by the consumed oxygen thus extends the catalyst life and raises the destruction/removal efficiency. The introduction of CNTs also increases the Cu(2+)/Cu(+) ratio, chemisorbed oxygen concentration and surface lattice oxygen binding energy which are closely related with catalytic activity. PCDD/Fs is confirmed to be formed when 1,2-DCBz catalytically oxidized by CuOx/TiO2-CNTs composite catalyst with sufficient oxygen (21%), proper temperature (350 °C) and high concentration of 1,2-DCBz feed (120 ppm). Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  2. Synthesis and oxygen content dependent properties of hexagonal DyMnO[subscript 3+delta

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Remsen, S.; Dabrowski, B.; Chmaissem, O.

    2011-10-28

    Oxygen deficient polycrystalline samples of hexagonal P6{sub 3}cm (space group No.185) DyMnO{sub 3+{delta}} ({delta} < 0) were synthesized in Ar by intentional decomposition of its perovskite phase obtained in air. The relative stability of these phases is in accord with our previous studies of the temperature and oxygen vacancy dependent tolerance factor. Thermogravimetric measurements have shown that hexagonal samples of DyMnO{sub 3+{delta}} (0 {le} {delta} {le} 0.4) exhibit unusually large excess oxygen content, which readily incorporates on heating near 300 C in various partial-pressures of oxygen atmospheres. Neutron and synchrotron diffraction data show the presence of two new structural phasesmore » at {delta} {approx} 0.25 (Hex{sub 2}) and {delta} {approx} 0.40 (Hex{sub 3}). Rietveld refinements of the Hex{sub 2} phase strongly suggest it is well modeled by the R3 space group (No.146). These phases were observed to transform back to P6{sub 3}cm above {approx} 350 C when material becomes stoichiometric in oxygen content ({delta} = 0). Chemical expansion of the crystal lattice corresponding to these large changes of oxygen was found to be 3.48 x 10{sup -2} mol{sup -1}. Thermal expansion of stoichiometric phases were determined to be 11.6 x 10{sup -6} and 2.1 x 10{sup -6} K{sup -1} for the P6{sub 3}cm and Hex{sub 2} phases, respectively. Our measurements also indicate that the oxygen non-stoichiometry of hexagonal RMnO{sub 3+{delta}} materials may have important influence on their multiferroic properties.« less

  3. Antioxidant activity of oregano, parsley, and olive mill wastewaters in bulk oils and oil-in-water emulsions enriched in fish oil.

    PubMed

    Jimenez-Alvarez, D; Giuffrida, F; Golay, P A; Cotting, C; Lardeau, A; Keely, Brendan J

    2008-08-27

    The antioxidant activity of oregano, parsley, olive mill wastewaters (OMWW), Trolox, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) was evaluated in bulk oils and oil-in-water (o/w) emulsions enriched with 5% tuna oil by monitoring the formation of hydroperoxides, hexanal, and t-t-2,4-heptadienal in samples stored at 37 degrees C for 14 days. In bulk oil, the order of antioxidant activity was, in decreasing order (p < 0.05), OMWW > oregano > parsley > EDTA > Trolox. The antioxidant activity in o/w emulsion followed the same order except that EDTA was as efficient an antioxidant as OMWW. In addition, the total phenolic content, the radical scavenging properties, the reducing capacity, and the iron chelating activity of OMWW, parsley, and oregano extracts were determined by the Folin-Ciocalteau, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and iron(II) chelating activity assays, respectively. The antioxidant activity of OMWW, parsley, and oregano in food systems was related to their total phenolic content and radical scavenging capacity but not to their ability to chelate iron in vitro. OMWW was identified as a promising source of antioxidants to retard lipid oxidation in fish oil-enriched food products.

  4. Effect of Exposure on the Mechanical Properties of Gamma MET PX

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Draper, S. L.; Lerch, B. A.; Locci, I. E.; Shazly, M.; Prakash, V.

    2004-01-01

    The effect of a service environment exposure on the mechanical properties of a high Nb content TiAl alloy, Gamma MET PX , was assessed. Gamma MET PX, like other TiAl alloys, experiences a reduction of ductility following high temperature exposure. Exposure in Ar, air, and high-purity oxygen all resulted in a loss of ductility with the ductility reduction increasing with oxygen content in the exposure atmosphere. Embrittling mechanisms, including bulk microstructural changes, moisture induced environmental embrittlement, and near surface effects were investigated. The embrittlement has been shown to be a near-surface effect, most likely due to the diffusion of oxygen into the alloy.

  5. Science & Technology Review November 2006

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Radousky, H

    This months issue has the following articles: (1) Expanded Supercomputing Maximizes Scientific Discovery--Commentary by Dona Crawford; (2) Thunder's Power Delivers Breakthrough Science--Livermore's Thunder supercomputer allows researchers to model systems at scales never before possible. (3) Extracting Key Content from Images--A new system called the Image Content Engine is helping analysts find significant but hard-to-recognize details in overhead images. (4) Got Oxygen?--Oxygen, especially oxygen metabolism, was key to evolution, and a Livermore project helps find out why. (5) A Shocking New Form of Laserlike Light--According to research at Livermore, smashing a crystal with a shock wave can result in coherent light.

  6. Normobaric hyperoxia markedly reduces brain damage and sensorimotor deficits following brief focal ischaemia.

    PubMed

    Ejaz, Sohail; Emmrich, Julius V; Sitnikov, Sergey L; Hong, Young T; Sawiak, Stephen J; Fryer, Tim D; Aigbirhio, Franklin I; Williamson, David J; Baron, Jean-Claude

    2016-03-01

    'True' transient ischaemic attacks are characterized not only clinically, but also radiologically by a lack of corresponding changes on magnetic resonance imaging. During a transient ischaemic attack it is assumed that the affected tissue is penumbral but rescued by early spontaneous reperfusion. There is, however, evidence from rodent studies that even brief focal ischaemia not resulting in tissue infarction can cause extensive selective neuronal loss associated with long-lasting sensorimotor impairment but normal magnetic resonance imaging. Selective neuronal loss might therefore contribute to the increasingly recognized cognitive impairment occurring in patients with transient ischaemic attacks. It is therefore relevant to consider treatments to reduce brain damage occurring with transient ischaemic attacks. As penumbral neurons are threatened by markedly constrained oxygen delivery, improving the latter by increasing arterial O2 content would seem logical. Despite only small increases in arterial O2 content, normobaric oxygen therapy experimentally induces significant increases in penumbral O2 pressure and by such may maintain the penumbra alive until reperfusion. Nevertheless, the effects of normobaric oxygen therapy on infarct volume in rodent models have been conflicting, although duration of occlusion appeared an important factor. Likewise, in the single randomized trial published to date, early-administered normobaric oxygen therapy had no significant effect on clinical outcome despite reduced diffusion-weighted imaging lesion growth during therapy. Here we tested the hypothesis that normobaric oxygen therapy prevents both selective neuronal loss and sensorimotor deficits in a rodent model mimicking true transient ischaemic attack. Normobaric oxygen therapy was applied from the onset and until completion of 15 min distal middle cerebral artery occlusion in spontaneously hypertensive rats, a strain representative of the transient ischaemic attack-prone population. Whereas normoxic controls showed normal magnetic resonance imaging but extensive cortical selective neuronal loss associated with microglial activation (present both at Day 14 in vivo and at Day 28 post-mortem) and marked and long-lasting sensorimotor deficits, normobaric oxygen therapy completely prevented sensorimotor deficit (P < 0.02) and near-completely Day 28 selective neuronal loss (P < 0.005). Microglial activation was substantially reduced at Day 14 and completely prevented at Day 28 (P = 0.002). Our findings document that normobaric oxygen therapy administered during ischaemia nearly completely prevents the neuronal death, microglial inflammation and sensorimotor impairment that characterize this rodent true transient ischaemic attack model. Taken together with the available literature, normobaric oxygen therapy appears a promising therapy for short-lasting ischaemia, and is attractive clinically as it could be started at home in at-risk patients or in the ambulance in subjects suspected of transient ischaemic attack/early stroke. It may also be a straightforward adjunct to reperfusion therapies, and help prevent subtle brain damage potentially contributing to long-term cognitive and sensorimotor impairment in at-risk populations. © The Author (2016). Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Guarantors of Brain. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  7. Phenyl-alpha-tert-butyl nitrone reverses mitochondrial decay in acute Chagas' disease.

    PubMed

    Wen, Jian-Jun; Bhatia, Vandanajay; Popov, Vsevolod L; Garg, Nisha Jain

    2006-12-01

    In this study, we investigated the mechanism(s) of mitochondrial functional decline in acute Chagas' disease. Our data show a substantial decline in respiratory complex activities (39 to 58%) and ATP (38%) content in Trypanosoma cruzi-infected murine hearts compared with normal controls. These metabolic alterations were associated with an approximately fivefold increase in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production rate, substantial oxidative insult of mitochondrial membranes and respiratory complex subunits, and >60% inhibition of mtDNA-encoded transcripts for respiratory complex subunits in infected myocardium. The antioxidant phenyl-alpha-tert-butyl nitrone (PBN) arrested the oxidative damage-mediated loss in mitochondrial membrane integrity, preserved redox potential-coupled mitochondrial gene expression, and improved respiratory complex activities (47 to 95% increase) and cardiac ATP level (>or=40% increase) in infected myocardium. Importantly, PBN resulted twofold decline in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production rate in infected myocardium. Taken together, our data demonstrate the pathological significance of oxidative stress in metabolic decay and energy homeostasis in acute chagasic myocarditis and further suggest that oxidative injuries affecting mitochondrial integrity-dependent expression and activity of the respiratory complexes initiate a feedback cycle of electron transport chain inefficiency, increased reactive oxygen species production, and energy homeostasis in acute chagasic hearts. PBN and other mitochondria-targeted antioxidants may be useful in altering mitochondrial decay and oxidative pathology in Chagas' disease.

  8. Loss of BIM increases mitochondrial oxygen consumption and lipid oxidation, reduces adiposity and improves insulin sensitivity in mice.

    PubMed

    Wali, Jibran A; Galic, Sandra; Tan, Christina Yr; Gurzov, Esteban N; Frazier, Ann E; Connor, Timothy; Ge, Jingjing; Pappas, Evan G; Stroud, David; Varanasi, L Chitra; Selck, Claudia; Ryan, Michael T; Thorburn, David R; Kemp, Bruce E; Krishnamurthy, Balasubramanian; Kay, Thomas Wh; McGee, Sean L; Thomas, Helen E

    2018-01-01

    BCL-2 proteins are known to engage each other to determine the fate of a cell after a death stimulus. However, their evolutionary conservation and the many other reported binding partners suggest an additional function not directly linked to apoptosis regulation. To identify such a function, we studied mice lacking the BH3-only protein BIM. BIM -/- cells had a higher mitochondrial oxygen consumption rate that was associated with higher mitochondrial complex IV activity. The consequences of increased oxygen consumption in BIM -/- mice were significantly lower body weights, reduced adiposity and lower hepatic lipid content. Consistent with reduced adiposity, BIM -/- mice had lower fasting blood glucose, improved insulin sensitivity and hepatic insulin signalling. Lipid oxidation was increased in BIM -/- mice, suggesting a mechanism for their metabolic phenotype. Our data suggest a role for BIM in regulating mitochondrial bioenergetics and metabolism and support the idea that regulation of metabolism and cell death are connected.

  9. The Herbaspirillum seropedicae SmR1 Fnr orthologs controls the cytochrome composition of the electron transport chain.

    PubMed

    Batista, Marcelo B; Sfeir, Michelle Z T; Faoro, Helisson; Wassem, Roseli; Steffens, Maria B R; Pedrosa, Fábio O; Souza, Emanuel M; Dixon, Ray; Monteiro, Rose A

    2013-01-01

    The transcriptional regulatory protein Fnr, acts as an intracellular redox sensor regulating a wide range of genes in response to changes in oxygen levels. Genome sequencing of Herbaspirillum seropedicae SmR1 revealed the presence of three fnr-like genes. In this study we have constructed single, double and triple fnr deletion mutant strains of H. seropedicae. Transcriptional profiling in combination with expression data from reporter fusions, together with spectroscopic analysis, demonstrates that the Fnr1 and Fnr3 proteins not only regulate expression of the cbb3-type respiratory oxidase, but also control the cytochrome content and other component complexes required for the cytochrome c-based electron transport pathway. Accordingly, in the absence of the three Fnr paralogs, growth is restricted at low oxygen tensions and nitrogenase activity is impaired. Our results suggest that the H. seropedicae Fnr proteins are major players in regulating the composition of the electron transport chain in response to prevailing oxygen concentrations.

  10. The Herbaspirillum seropedicae SmR1 Fnr orthologs controls the cytochrome composition of the electron transport chain

    PubMed Central

    Batista, Marcelo B.; Sfeir, Michelle Z. T.; Faoro, Helisson; Wassem, Roseli; Steffens, Maria B. R.; Pedrosa, Fábio O.; Souza, Emanuel M.; Dixon, Ray; Monteiro, Rose A.

    2013-01-01

    The transcriptional regulatory protein Fnr, acts as an intracellular redox sensor regulating a wide range of genes in response to changes in oxygen levels. Genome sequencing of Herbaspirillum seropedicae SmR1 revealed the presence of three fnr-like genes. In this study we have constructed single, double and triple fnr deletion mutant strains of H. seropedicae. Transcriptional profiling in combination with expression data from reporter fusions, together with spectroscopic analysis, demonstrates that the Fnr1 and Fnr3 proteins not only regulate expression of the cbb3-type respiratory oxidase, but also control the cytochrome content and other component complexes required for the cytochrome c-based electron transport pathway. Accordingly, in the absence of the three Fnr paralogs, growth is restricted at low oxygen tensions and nitrogenase activity is impaired. Our results suggest that the H. seropedicae Fnr proteins are major players in regulating the composition of the electron transport chain in response to prevailing oxygen concentrations. PMID:23996052

  11. The partial pressure of oxygen affects biomarkers of oxidative stress in cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) hepatocytes.

    PubMed

    Finne, E F; Olsvik, P A; Berntssen, M H G; Hylland, K; Tollefsen, K E

    2008-09-01

    Oxidative stress, the imbalance between production of reactive oxygen species and the cellular detoxification of these reactive compounds, is believed to be involved in the pathology of various diseases. Several biomarkers for oxidative stress have been proposed to serve as tools in toxicological and ecotoxicological research. Not only may exposure to various pro-oxidants create conditions of cellular oxidative stress, but hyperoxic conditions may also increase the production of reactive oxygen species. The objective of the current study was to determine the extent to which differences in oxygen partial pressure would affect biomarkers of oxidative stress in a primary culture of hepatocytes from rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Membrane integrity, metabolic activity, levels of total and oxidized glutathione (tGSH/GSSG) was determined, as well as mRNA expression levels of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GSSG-R), gamma-glutamyl-cystein synthetase (GCS) and thioredoxin (TRX). The results show that different biomarkers of oxidative stress are affected when the cell culture is exposed to atmospheric oxygen, and that changes such as increased GSSG content and induction of GSSG-R and GSH-Px can be reduced by culturing the cells under lower oxygen tension. Oxygen tension may thus influence results of in vitro based cell research and is particularly important when assessing parameters in the antioxidant defence system. Further research is needed to establish the magnitude of this effect in different cellular systems.

  12. Lignans from Opuntia ficus-indica seeds protect rat primary hepatocytes and HepG2 cells against ethanol-induced oxidative stress.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jung Wha; Yang, Heejung; Kim, Hyeon Woo; Kim, Hong Pyo; Sung, Sang Hyun

    2017-01-01

    Bioactivity-guided isolation of Opuntia ficus-indica (Cactaceae) seeds against ethanol-treated primary rat hepatocytes yielded six lignan compounds. Among the isolates, furofuran lignans 4-6, significantly protected rat hepatocytes against ethanol-induced oxidative stress by reducing intracellular reactive oxygen species levels, preserving antioxidative defense enzyme activities, and maintaining the glutathione content. Moreover, 4 dose-dependently induced the heme oxygenase-1 expression in HepG2 cells.

  13. Non-metal single/dual doped carbon quantum dots: a general flame synthetic method and electro-catalytic properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Han, Yuzhi; Tang, Di; Yang, Yanmei; Li, Chuanxi; Kong, Weiqian; Huang, Hui; Liu, Yang; Kang, Zhenhui

    2015-03-01

    A combustion flame method is developed for the convenient and scalable fabrication of single- and dual-doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) (N-CQDs, B-CQDs, P-CQDs, and S-CQDs and dual-doped B,N-CQDs, P,N-CQDs, and S,N-CQDs), and the doping contents can be easily adjusted by simply changing the concentrations of precursors in ethanol. These single/dual-doped CQDs, especially B,N-CQDs, show high catalytic activities for the oxygen reduction reaction.A combustion flame method is developed for the convenient and scalable fabrication of single- and dual-doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) (N-CQDs, B-CQDs, P-CQDs, and S-CQDs and dual-doped B,N-CQDs, P,N-CQDs, and S,N-CQDs), and the doping contents can be easily adjusted by simply changing the concentrations of precursors in ethanol. These single/dual-doped CQDs, especially B,N-CQDs, show high catalytic activities for the oxygen reduction reaction. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: TEM images, UV-Vis absorption, PL, Raman, FTIR, XPS, CV, and LSV data of single/dual doped CQDs, a table for the calculated mass concentrations of different atoms in various B, N, P or S containing CQDs and a table for summary of the ORR performance of various catalysts in an O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH solution. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr07116f

  14. Oxidation of Cyclohexene Catalyzed by Nanoporous Au(Ag) in Liquid Phase

    DOE PAGES

    Dou, Jian; Tang, Yu; Nguyen, Luan; ...

    2016-12-22

    Nanoporous gold with minor silver content has been identified as a new type of gold based catalyst for selective oxidation of cyclohexene with molecular oxygen in liquid. By oxidation of the leached nanoporous gold foils in ozone, the minor silver content was oxidized in this paper to form silver oxide nanoclusters on the surface of nanoporous gold. With further treatment in methanol, the surface silver oxide was reduced and surface alloy was formed on gold ligaments. Both nanoporous gold treated with ozone only and the one with ozone and then methanol are very active for selective oxidation of cyclohexene withmore » molecular oxygen in liquid of cyclohexene with a turn-over-frequency (TOF) of 0.55–0.99 molecules per surface Au atom per second under a solvent-free and initiator- free condition. The total selectivity for production of 2-cyclohexene-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-1-ol, and cyclohexene oxide was increased from 57.5 % to 80.8 % by an additional treatment of nanoporous gold in methanol after activation in zone. Finally, the correlation of catalytic selectivity for the production of the three products and corresponding surface chemistry of ligament suggests that (1) the formed Au–Ag alloy surface is favorable for the formation of 2-cyclohexen-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-1-ol, and cyclohexene oxide and (2) the surface silver oxide is favorable for the production of cyclohexenyl hydroperoxide.« less

  15. Oxidation of Cyclohexene Catalyzed by Nanoporous Au(Ag) in Liquid Phase

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dou, Jian; Tang, Yu; Nguyen, Luan

    Nanoporous gold with minor silver content has been identified as a new type of gold based catalyst for selective oxidation of cyclohexene with molecular oxygen in liquid. By oxidation of the leached nanoporous gold foils in ozone, the minor silver content was oxidized in this paper to form silver oxide nanoclusters on the surface of nanoporous gold. With further treatment in methanol, the surface silver oxide was reduced and surface alloy was formed on gold ligaments. Both nanoporous gold treated with ozone only and the one with ozone and then methanol are very active for selective oxidation of cyclohexene withmore » molecular oxygen in liquid of cyclohexene with a turn-over-frequency (TOF) of 0.55–0.99 molecules per surface Au atom per second under a solvent-free and initiator- free condition. The total selectivity for production of 2-cyclohexene-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-1-ol, and cyclohexene oxide was increased from 57.5 % to 80.8 % by an additional treatment of nanoporous gold in methanol after activation in zone. Finally, the correlation of catalytic selectivity for the production of the three products and corresponding surface chemistry of ligament suggests that (1) the formed Au–Ag alloy surface is favorable for the formation of 2-cyclohexen-1-one, 2-cyclohexene-1-ol, and cyclohexene oxide and (2) the surface silver oxide is favorable for the production of cyclohexenyl hydroperoxide.« less

  16. Transition metal nitride coated with atomic layers of Pt as a low-cost, highly stable electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction

    DOE PAGES

    Tian, Xinlong; Adzic, Radoslav R.; Luo, Junming; ...

    2016-02-10

    Here, the main challenges to the commercial viability of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells are (i) the high cost associated with using large amounts of Pt in fuel cell cathodes to compensate for the sluggish kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction, (ii) catalyst degradation, and (iii) carbon-support corrosion. To address these obstacles, our group has focused on robust, carbon-free transition metal nitride materials with low Pt content that exhibit tunable physical and catalytic properties. Here, we report on the high performance of a novel catalyst with low Pt content, prepared by placing several layers of Pt atoms on nanoparticles ofmore » titanium nickel binary nitride. For the ORR, the catalyst exhibited a more than 400% and 200% increase in mass activity and specific activity, respectively, compared with the commercial Pt/C catalyst. It also showed excellent stability/durability, experiencing only a slight performance loss after 10,000 potential cycles, while TEM results showed its structure had remained intact. The catalyst’s outstanding performance may have resulted from the ultrahigh dispersion of Pt (several atomic layers coated on the nitride nanoparticles), and the excellent stability/durability may have been due to the good stability of nitride and synergetic effects between ultrathin Pt layer and the robust TiNiN support.« less

  17. [Individual variability of immunological markers, radiosensitivity and oxidative status in blood lymphocytes of Moscow residents].

    PubMed

    Pelevina, I I; Aleshchenko, A V; Antoshchina, M M; Kudriashova, O M; Nikonova, M F; Riabchenko, N I; Serebrianyĭ, A M; Iarilin, A A

    2013-01-01

    Expression of activation (CD69) and proliferation (Ki67) markers, their connection with each other, with the oxidative status (reactive oxygen species--ROS) and with radiosensitivity (determined by micronucleus test) have been studied on stimulated blood lymphocytes from Moscow inhabitants. It was shown that the content of T-lymphocytes with the expressed CD69 and the content of T-lymphocytes with the expressed Ki67 markers correlate (r = 0.571; p = 0.0004). We can suppose that expression of the CD69 marker (24 h after PHA stimulation) is needed for the cell cycle progression, but it is not enough for the high expression of Ki67 markers 48 h after stimulation (DNA synthesis phase). It was discovered that T-lymphocytes with the CD69 marker or T-lymphocytes with the Ki67 marker are connected by the negative correlation with the frequency of irradiated cell with micronucleus (MN) r = -0.487; p = 0.010; r = -0.440; p = 0.008, respectively. So we can suppose that lymphocyte radiosensitivity decreased with the increase of expression activation and proliferation markers. It was shown that radiosensitivity determined by MN test is not connected with the oxidative status determined by the reactive oxygen species content including superoxide anion radicals. It is possible to explain by the fact that the ROS concentration has been determined in non-stimulated lymphocytes, but frequencies of cells with MN - in the stimulated cells 48 h after stimulation. Using separate analysis of individual differences by the studied parameters that were determined in the same people, it was shown that individual differences are high enough in the same cases. For example, the radiosensitivity when cells were irradiated 48 h after stimulation, ROS concentration, cell content with activation and proliferation markers. In conclusion, we can say that we failed to find important correlation between the parameters studied. However, the presence of individual differences in the marker expression, the frequency of MN cells, the oxidative status in the usual inhabitants, typical donors in Moscow, is very important.

  18. [Influence of exogenous gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on GABA metabolism and amino acid contents in roots of melon seedling under hypoxia stress].

    PubMed

    Wang, Chun-Yan; Li, Jing-Rui; Xia, Qing-Ping; Wu, Xiao-Lei; Gao, Hong-Bo

    2014-07-01

    This paper investigated the influence of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on GABA metabolism and amino acid content under hypoxia stress by accurately controlling the level of dissolved oxygen in hydroponics, using the roots of melon 'Xiyu 1' seedlings as the test material. The results showed that compared with the control, the growth of roots was inhibited seriously under hypoxia stress. Meanwhile, the hypoxia-treated roots had significantly higher activities of glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH), glutamate synthase (GOGAT), glutamine synthetase (GS), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) as well as the contents of GABA, pyruvic acid, alanine (Ala) and aspartic acid (Asp). But the contents of glutamic acid (Glu) and alpha-keto glutaric acid in roots under hypoxia stress was obviously lower than those of the control. Exogenous treatment with GABA alleviated the inhibition effect of hypoxia stress on root growth, which was accompanied by an increase in the contents of endogenous GABA, Glu, alpha-keto glutaric acid and Asp. Furthermore, under hypoxia stress, the activities of GAD, GDH, GOGAT, GS, ALT, AST as well as the contents of pyruvic acid and Ala significantly decreased in roots treated with GABA. However, adding GABA and viny-gamma-aminobutyric acid (VGB) reduced the alleviation effect of GABA on melon seedlings under hypoxia stress. The results suggested that absorption of GABA by roots could alleviate the injury of hypoxia stress to melon seedlings. This meant that GABA treatment allows the normal physiological metabolism under hypoxia by inhibiting the GAD activity through feedback and maintaining higher Glu content as well as the bal- ance of carbon and nitrogen.

  19. Endothelial microvesicles in hypoxic hypoxia diseases.

    PubMed

    Deng, Fan; Wang, Shuang; Xu, Riping; Yu, Wenqian; Wang, Xianyu; Zhang, Liangqing

    2018-05-29

    Hypoxic hypoxia, including abnormally low partial pressure of inhaled oxygen, external respiratory dysfunction-induced respiratory hypoxia and venous blood flow into the arterial blood, is characterized by decreased arterial oxygen partial pressure, resulting in tissue oxygen deficiency. The specific characteristics include reduced arterial oxygen partial pressure and oxygen content. Hypoxic hypoxia diseases (HHDs) have attracted increased attention due to their high morbidity and mortality and mounting evidence showing that hypoxia-induced oxidative stress, coagulation, inflammation and angiogenesis play extremely important roles in the physiological and pathological processes of HHDs-related vascular endothelial injury. Interestingly, endothelial microvesicles (EMVs), which can be induced by hypoxia, hypoxia-induced oxidative stress, coagulation and inflammation in HHDs, have emerged as key mediators of intercellular communication and cellular functions. EMVs shed from activated or apoptotic endothelial cells (ECs) reflect the degree of ECs damage, and elevated EMVs levels are present in several HHDs, including obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Furthermore, EMVs have procoagulant, proinflammatory and angiogenic functions that affect the pathological processes of HHDs. This review summarizes the emerging roles of EMVs in the diagnosis, staging, treatment and clinical prognosis of HHDs. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Foundation for Cellular and Molecular Medicine.

  20. Positive selection in octopus haemocyanin indicates functional links to temperature adaptation.

    PubMed

    Oellermann, Michael; Strugnell, Jan M; Lieb, Bernhard; Mark, Felix C

    2015-07-05

    Octopods have successfully colonised the world's oceans from the tropics to the poles. Yet, successful persistence in these habitats has required adaptations of their advanced physiological apparatus to compensate impaired oxygen supply. Their oxygen transporter haemocyanin plays a major role in cold tolerance and accordingly has undergone functional modifications to sustain oxygen release at sub-zero temperatures. However, it remains unknown how molecular properties evolved to explain the observed functional adaptations. We thus aimed to assess whether natural selection affected molecular and structural properties of haemocyanin that explains temperature adaptation in octopods. Analysis of 239 partial sequences of the haemocyanin functional units (FU) f and g of 28 octopod species of polar, temperate, subtropical and tropical origin revealed natural selection was acting primarily on charge properties of surface residues. Polar octopods contained haemocyanins with higher net surface charge due to decreased glutamic acid content and higher numbers of basic amino acids. Within the analysed partial sequences, positive selection was present at site 2545, positioned between the active copper binding centre and the FU g surface. At this site, methionine was the dominant amino acid in polar octopods and leucine was dominant in tropical octopods. Sites directly involved in oxygen binding or quaternary interactions were highly conserved within the analysed sequence. This study has provided the first insight into molecular and structural mechanisms that have enabled octopods to sustain oxygen supply from polar to tropical conditions. Our findings imply modulation of oxygen binding via charge-charge interaction at the protein surface, which stabilize quaternary interactions among functional units to reduce detrimental effects of high pH on venous oxygen release. Of the observed partial haemocyanin sequence, residue 2545 formed a close link between the FU g surface and the active centre, suggesting a role as allosteric binding site. The prevalence of methionine at this site in polar octopods, implies regulation of oxygen affinity via increased sensitivity to allosteric metal binding. High sequence conservation of sites directly involved in oxygen binding indicates that functional modifications of octopod haemocyanin rather occur via more subtle mechanisms, as observed in this study.

  1. W-incorporated CoMo/{lambda}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} hydrodesulfurization catalyst. I. Catalytic activities

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lee, D.K.; Lee, I.C.; Park, S.K.

    1996-03-01

    The promotional effect of tungsten in the CoMo/{gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalyst was studied for series of W-incorporated CoMo/{gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalysts with different content of tungsten. Two series of the catalysts were prepared by changing the impregnation order of cobalt and tungsten onto a base Mo/{gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} catalyst. Impregnation of tungsten was achieved under the condition that the pH of an aqueous impregnating solution of W anion was controlled to 9.5. The hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and hydrogenation (HYD) activities of the sulfided catalysts were evaluated by thiophene HDS and ethylene HYD reactions at atmospheric pressure, respectively. Low-temperature O{sub 2} chemisorptionmore » at 195 K was conducted for the sulfided catalysts in order to determine the W-incorporation effects on the surface concentration of coordinatively unsaturated sites related to the catalytic activities. The dependence of catalytic activities on tungsten content showed initially an increase and subsequent decrease with increasing tungsten content. The maximum promotion of HDS and HYD activities occurred at a low content of tungsten corresponding to 0.025 in W/(W + Mo) atomic ratio regardless of the impregnation order of tungsten and cobalt. Oxygen uptake correlated well with catalytic activities. In general, the catalysts prepared by impregnating tungsten onto the CoMo/{gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} showed higher activities than the catalysts prepared by impregnating tungsten onto Mo/{gamma}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} prior to impregnation of cobalt. 37 refs., 7 figs., 2 tabs.« less

  2. Ultrasonic evaluation of oxidation and reduction effects on the elastic behavior and global microstructure of YBa2Cu3O7-x

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Roth, Don J.; Deguire, Mark R.; Dolhert, Leonard E.

    1991-01-01

    Ultrasonic velocity measurement techniques were used to evaluate the effects of oxidation and reduction on the elastic properties, global microstructure and oxygen content of the YBa2Cu3O(7-x) ceramic superconductor for samples ranging from 70 to 90 pct. of theoretical density. Bulk density, velocity, and elastic modulus generally increased with increasing oxygen content upon oxidation, and this behavior was reversible. Velocity image patterns were similar after oxidation and reduction treatments for a 90 pct. dense sample, although the velocity value at any given point on the sample was changed following the treatments. The unchanging pattern correlated with destructive measurements showing that the spatial pore distribution (fraction and size) was not measurably altered after the treatments. Changes in superconducting behavior, crystal structure, and grain structure were observed consistent with changes in oxygen content.

  3. Organic carbon accumulation and preservation in surface sediments on the Peru margin

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Arthur, M.A.; Dean, W.E.; Laarkamp, K.

    1998-01-01

    Concentrations and characteristics of organic matter in surface sediments deposited under an intense oxygen-minimum zone on the Peru margin were studied in samples from deck-deployed box cores and push cores acquired by submersible on two transects spanning depths of 75 to 1000 m at 12??and 13.5??S. The source of organic matter to the seafloor in these areas is almost entirely marine material as confirmed by the narrow range of ??13C of organic carbon obtained in the present study (-20.3 to -21.6???; PDB) and the lack of any relationship between pyrolysis hydrogen index and carbon isotope composition. Organic carbon contents are highest (up to 16%) on the slope at depths between 75 and 350 m in sediments deposited under intermediate water masses with low dissolved oxygen concentrations (< 5 ??mol/kg). Even at these low concentrations of dissolved oxygen, however, the surface sediments that were recovered from these depths are dominantly unlaminated. Strong currents (up to 30 cm/s) associated with the poleward-flowing Peru Undercurrent were measured at depths between 160 and 300 m on both transects. The seafloor in this range of water depths is characterized by bedforms stabilized by bacterial mats, extensive authigenic mineral crusts, and (or) thick organic flocs. Constant advection of dissolved oxygen, although in low concentrations, active resuspension of surficial organic matter, activity of organisms, and transport of fine-grained sediment to and from more oxygenated zones all contribute to greater degradation and poorer initial preservation of organic matter than might be expected under oxygen-deficient conditions. Dissolved-oxygen concentrations ultimately may be the dominant affect on organic matter characteristics, but reworking of fine-grained sediment and organic matter by strong bottom currents and redeposition on the seafloor in areas of lower energy also exert important controls on organic carbon concentration and degree of oxidation in this region.

  4. Hyperammonaemia‐induced skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction results in cataplerosis and oxidative stress

    PubMed Central

    Davuluri, Gangarao; Allawy, Allawy; Thapaliya, Samjhana; Rennison, Julie H.; Singh, Dharmvir; Kumar, Avinash; Sandlers, Yana; Van Wagoner, David R.; Flask, Chris A.; Hoppel, Charles; Kasumov, Takhar

    2016-01-01

    Key points Hyperammonaemia occurs in hepatic, cardiac and pulmonary diseases with increased muscle concentration of ammonia.We found that ammonia results in reduced skeletal muscle mitochondrial respiration, electron transport chain complex I dysfunction, as well as lower NAD+/NADH ratio and ATP content.During hyperammonaemia, leak of electrons from complex III results in oxidative modification of proteins and lipids.Tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates are decreased during hyperammonaemia, and providing a cell‐permeable ester of αKG reversed the lower TCA cycle intermediate concentrations and increased ATP content.Our observations have high clinical relevance given the potential for novel approaches to reverse skeletal muscle ammonia toxicity by targeting the TCA cycle intermediates and mitochondrial ROS. Abstract Ammonia is a cytotoxic metabolite that is removed primarily by hepatic ureagenesis in humans. Hyperammonaemia occurs in advanced hepatic, cardiac and pulmonary disease, and in urea cycle enzyme deficiencies. Increased skeletal muscle ammonia uptake and metabolism are the major mechanism of non‐hepatic ammonia disposal. Non‐hepatic ammonia disposal occurs in the mitochondria via glutamate synthesis from α‐ketoglutarate resulting in cataplerosis. We show skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction during hyperammonaemia in a comprehensive array of human, rodent and cellular models. ATP synthesis, oxygen consumption, generation of reactive oxygen species with oxidative stress, and tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle intermediates were quantified. ATP content was lower in the skeletal muscle from cirrhotic patients, hyperammonaemic portacaval anastomosis rat, and C2C12 myotubes compared to appropriate controls. Hyperammonaemia in C2C12 myotubes resulted in impaired intact cell respiration, reduced complex I/NADH oxidase activity and electron leak occurring at complex III of the electron transport chain. Consistently, lower NAD+/NADH ratio was observed during hyperammonaemia with reduced TCA cycle intermediates compared to controls. Generation of reactive oxygen species resulted in increased content of skeletal muscle carbonylated proteins and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances during hyperammonaemia. A cell‐permeable ester of α‐ketoglutarate reversed the low TCA cycle intermediates and ATP content in myotubes during hyperammonaemia. However, the mitochondrial antioxidant MitoTEMPO did not reverse the lower ATP content during hyperammonaemia. We provide for the first time evidence that skeletal muscle hyperammonaemia results in mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Use of anaplerotic substrates to reverse ammonia‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction is a novel therapeutic approach. PMID:27558544

  5. Effect of stationary magnetic field strengths of 150 and 200 mT on reactive oxygen species production in soybean.

    PubMed

    Shine, M B; Guruprasad, K N; Anand, Anjali

    2012-07-01

    Our previous investigation reported the beneficial effect of pre-sowing magnetic treatment for improving germination parameters and biomass accumulation in soybean. In this study, soybean seeds treated with static magnetic fields of 150 and 200 mT for 1 h were evaluated for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Superoxide and hydroxyl radicals were measured in embryos and hypocotyls of germinating seeds by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and kinetics of superoxide production; hydrogen peroxide and antioxidant activities were estimated spectrophotometrically. Magnetic field treatment resulted in enhanced production of ROS mediated by cell wall peroxidase while ascorbic acid content, superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase activity decreased in the hypocotyl of germinating seeds. An increase in the cytosolic peroxidase activity indicated that this antioxidant enzyme had a vital role in scavenging the increased H(2)O(2) produced in seedlings from the magnetically treated seeds. Hence, these studies contribute to our first report on the biochemical basis of enhanced germination and seedling growth in magnetically treated seeds of soybean in relation to increased production of ROS. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. Glutathione biosynthesis plays an important role against 4-tert-octylphenol-induced oxidative stress in Ceratophyllum demersum.

    PubMed

    Cahyanurani, Annisa' Bias; Chiu, Kuo-Hsun; Wu, Tsung-Meng

    2017-09-01

    4-tert-octylphenol (OP) is a persistent environmental pollutant with an endocrine-disrupting property. In the present study, we examined the effect of various concentrations of OP (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2 and 3 mg L -1 ) applied to an aquatic plant, the submersed macrophyte Ceratophyllum demersum. The toxic effect caused by OP inhibited the plant's growth rate, reduced total chlorophyll content and increased levels of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) O 2 •- and H 2 O 2 . OP treatment significantly increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione reductase and ascorbate peroxidase. The contents of the non-enzymatic antioxidant glutathione (GSH) and ratio of GSH to glutathione disulfide were markedly increased with OP treatment. Pretreatment with buthionine sulfoximine, a specific and potent inhibitor of GSH biosynthesis, significantly reduced total GSH content and conferred a more severe toxic phenotype on OP exposure. Thus, with OP-induced oxidative stress, C. demersum might actively regulate the antioxidant machinery, especially the biosynthesis and redox state of GSH. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Thermal analysis and kinetics of coal during oxy-fuel combustion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kosowska-Golachowska, Monika

    2017-08-01

    The pyrolysis and oxy-fuel combustion characteristics of Polish bituminous coal were studied using non-isothermal thermogravimetric analysis. Pyrolysis tests showed that the mass loss profiles were almost similar up to 870°C in both N2 and CO2 atmospheres, while further mass loss occurred in CO2 atmosphere at higher temperatures due to char-CO2 gasification. Replacement of N2 in the combustion environment by CO2 delayed the combustion of bituminous coal. At elevated oxygen levels, TG/DTG profiles shifted through lower temperature zone, ignition and burnout temperatures decreased and mass loss rate significantly increased and complete combustion was achieved at lower temperatures and shorter times. Kinetic analysis for the tested coal was performed using Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) method. The activation energies of bituminous coal combustion at the similar oxygen content in oxy-fuel with that of air were higher than that in air atmosphere. The results indicated that, with O2 concentration increasing, the activation energies decreased.

  8. Progress in the Development of Oxygen Reduction Reaction Catalysts for Low-Temperature Fuel Cells

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Li, Dongguo; Lv, Haifeng; Kang, Yijin

    2016-04-06

    In this paper, we present a brief summary on the most recent progress in the design of catalysts for electrochemical reduction of oxygen. The main challenge in the wide spread of fuel cell technology is to lower the content of, or even eliminate, Pt and other precious metals in catalysts without sacrificing their performance. Pt-based nanosized catalysts with novel and refined architectures continue to dominate in catalytic performance, and formation of Pt-skin-like surfaces is key to achieving the highest values in activity. Moreover, durability has also been improved in Pt-based systems with addition of Au, which plays an important rolemore » in stabilizing the Pt topmost layers against dissolution. However, various carbon-based materials without precious metal have shown improvement in activity and durability and have been explored to serve as catalyst supports. Finally, understanding how the doped elements interact with each other and/or carbon is challenging and necessary in the design of robust fuel cell catalysts.« less

  9. Hydroalcoholic extracts of Indian medicinal plants can help in amelioration from oxidative stress through antioxidant properties.

    PubMed

    Sarkar, Rhitajit; Mandal, Nripendranath

    2012-01-01

    The in vitro study of the antioxidant properties of the hydroalcoholic extracts of various Indian medicinal plants can logically help to develop a better and safer way of amelioration from oxidative stress. As aimed, the present study has been done to estimate and thereby conclude regarding the antioxidant activities of a few Indian medicinal plants, viz., Terminalia chebula, Terminalia belerica, Emblica officinalis, Caesalpinia crista, Cajanus cajan, and Tinospora cordifolia. The extracts of the plants have been subjected to the evaluation of antioxidant properties through scavenging assays for reactive oxygen species like superoxide, nitric oxide, peroxynitrite, hypochlorous acid, singlet oxygen, etc. and measurement of TEAC values and other phytochemical parameters. The phenolic and flavonoid contents of each plant have been found to be correlated to their individual antioxidant activity. The results showed the hydroalcoholic extracts of the plants were efficient indicators of their antioxidant capacity thus concreting their basis to be used as natural antioxidant.

  10. Biofilm architecture in a novel pressurized biofilm reactor.

    PubMed

    Jiang, Wei; Xia, Siqing; Duan, Liang; Hermanowicz, Slawomir W

    2015-01-01

    A novel pure-oxygen pressurized biofilm reactor was operated at different organic loading, mechanical shear and hydrodynamic conditions to understand the relationships between biofilm architecture and its operation. The ultimate goal was to improve the performance of the biofilm reactor. The biofilm was labeled with seven stains and observed with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Unusual biofilm architecture of a ribbon embedded between two surfaces with very few points of attachment was observed. As organic loading increased, the biofilm morphology changed from a moderately rough layer into a locally smoother biomass with significant bulging protuberances, although the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency remained unchanged at about 75%. At higher organic loadings, biofilms contained a larger fraction of active cells distributed uniformly within a proteinaceous matrix with decreasing polysaccharide content. Higher hydrodynamic shear in combination with high organic loading resulted in the collapse of biofilm structure and a substantial decrease in reactor performance (a COD removal of 16%). Moreover, the important role of proteins for the spatial distribution of active cells was demonstrated quantitatively.

  11. Carbon supported Pt-NiO nanoparticles for ethanol electro-oxidation in acid media

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Comignani, Vanina; Sieben, Juan Manuel; Brigante, Maximiliano E.; Duarte, Marta M. E.

    2015-03-01

    In the present work, the influence of nickel oxide as a co-catalyst of Pt nanoparticles for the electro-oxidation of ethanol in the temperature range of 23-60 °C was investigated. The carbon supported nickel oxide and platinum nanoparticles were prepared by hydrothermal synthesis and microwave-assisted polyol process respectively, and characterized by XRD, EDX, TEM and ICP analysis. The electrocatalytic activity of the as-prepared materials was studied by cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry. Small metal nanoparticles with sizes in the range of 3.5-4.5 nm were obtained. The nickel content in the as-prepared Pt-NiO/C catalysts was between 19 and 35 at.%. The electrochemical experiments showed that the electrocatalytic activity of the Pt-NiO/C materials increase with NiO content in the entire temperature range. The apparent activation energy (Ea,app) for the overall ethanol oxidation reaction was found to decrease with NiO content (24-32 kJ mol-1 at 0.3 V), while for Pt/C the activation energy exceeds 48 kJ mol-1. The better performance of the Pt-NiO/C catalysts compared to Pt/C sample is ascribed to the activation of both the C-H and O-H bonds via oxygen-containing species adsorbed on NiO molecules and the modification of the surface electronic structure (changes in the density of states near the Fermi level).

  12. Sensor for oxygen-combustibles gas mixtures

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Isenberg, A.O.

    1981-08-25

    A molten carbonate electrochemical cell is described which operates at a temperature between 400/sup 0/ and 700/sup 0/ C. It used to remove O/sub 2/ in combination with CO/sub 2/ from an oxygen/combustibles gas mixture to provide a low temperature measurement of the oxygen content of the gas mixture.

  13. 46 CFR 154.906 - Inert gas generators.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ...: (a) Produce an inert gas containing less than 5% oxygen by volume; (b) Have a device to continuously sample the discharge of the generator for oxygen content; and (c) Have an audible and visual alarm in the cargo control station that alarms when the inert gas contains 5% or more oxygen by volume. ...

  14. 46 CFR 154.906 - Inert gas generators.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ...: (a) Produce an inert gas containing less than 5% oxygen by volume; (b) Have a device to continuously sample the discharge of the generator for oxygen content; and (c) Have an audible and visual alarm in the cargo control station that alarms when the inert gas contains 5% or more oxygen by volume. ...

  15. 46 CFR 154.906 - Inert gas generators.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ...: (a) Produce an inert gas containing less than 5% oxygen by volume; (b) Have a device to continuously sample the discharge of the generator for oxygen content; and (c) Have an audible and visual alarm in the cargo control station that alarms when the inert gas contains 5% or more oxygen by volume. ...

  16. 46 CFR 154.906 - Inert gas generators.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ...: (a) Produce an inert gas containing less than 5% oxygen by volume; (b) Have a device to continuously sample the discharge of the generator for oxygen content; and (c) Have an audible and visual alarm in the cargo control station that alarms when the inert gas contains 5% or more oxygen by volume. ...

  17. 46 CFR 154.906 - Inert gas generators.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ...: (a) Produce an inert gas containing less than 5% oxygen by volume; (b) Have a device to continuously sample the discharge of the generator for oxygen content; and (c) Have an audible and visual alarm in the cargo control station that alarms when the inert gas contains 5% or more oxygen by volume. ...

  18. Comparison of cadmium and lead sorption by Phyllostachys pubescens biochar produced under a low-oxygen pyrolysis atmosphere.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Chao; Shan, Baoqing; Tang, Wenzhong; Zhu, Yaoyao

    2017-08-01

    Phyllostachys pubescens (PP) biochars produced under a low oxygen pyrolysis atmosphere (oxygen content 1-4%) were prepared as sorbents for investigating the mechanisms of cadmium and lead sorption. A low-oxygen pyrolysis atmosphere increased biochar ash and specific surface area, promoting heavy metal precipitation and complexation. The maximum sorption capacity (Q m ) of Pb 2+ obtained from the Langmuir model was 67.4mg·g -1 , while Q m of Cd 2+ was 14.7mg·g -1 . The contribution of each mechanism varied with increasing oxygen content at a low pyrolysis temperature. Mineral precipitation with Pb 2+ was the predominant mechanism for Pb 2+ removal and the contribution proportion significantly increased from 17.2% to 71.7% as pyrolysis oxygen atmosphere increased from 0% to 4%. The results showed that cadmium sorption primarily involved coordination with π electrons, at 54.1-82.6% of the total adsorption capacity. The PP biochar shows potential for application in removing heavy metal contaminants, especially Pb 2+ . Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  19. Optimisation of colour stability of cured ham during packaging and retail display by a multifactorial design.

    PubMed

    Møller, Jens K S; Jakobsen, Marianne; Weber, Claus J; Martinussen, Torben; Skibsted, Leif H; Bertelsen, Grete

    2003-02-01

    A multifactorial design, including (1) percent residual oxygen, (2) oxygen transmission rate of packaging film (OTR), (3) product to headspace volume ratio, (4) illuminance level and (5) nitrite level during curing, was established to investigate factors affecting light-induced oxidative discoloration of cured ham (packaged in modified atmosphere of 20% carbon dioxide and balanced with nitrogen) during 14 days of chill storage. Univariate statistical analysis found significant effects of all main factors on the redness (tristimulus a-value) of the ham. Subsequently, Response Surface Modelling of the data further proved that the interactions between packaging and storage conditions are important when optimising colour stability. The measured content of oxygen in the headspace was incorporated in the model and the interaction between measured oxygen content in the headspace and the product to headspace volume ratio was found to be crucial. Thus, it is not enough to keep the headspace oxygen level low, if the headspace volume at the same time is large, there will still be sufficient oxygen for colour deteriorating processes to take place.

  20. The quality of surface waters in Texas

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Rawson, Jack

    1974-01-01

    The discharge-weighted average concentrations of dissolved solids, chloride, and ,sulfate for many of the principal streams in Texas are less than 500 mg/l (millijgraljls per liter), 250 mg/l, and 250 mg/l, respectively. At 65 of 131 sites on streams that were sampled at least 10 times, the biochemical oxygen demand of at least half the samples exceeded 3.0 mg/l. At 20 of the sites, the dissolved-oxygen content of at least half the samples was less than 5.0 mg/l. The higher concentrations of minor elements usually were detected in waters from urban areas, indicating a relation to man's activities. Small amounts of some pesticides are widely distributed in low concentrations. The higher concentrations usually were detected in waters from urban areas.

  1. Potent antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities of traditional Japanese cereal grains.

    PubMed

    Higashi-Okai, Kiyoka; Ishida, Emi; Nakamura, Yumiko; Fujiwara, Satomi; Okai, Yasuji

    2008-12-01

    To estimate the preventive potential of Japanese traditional cereals against oxygen radical-related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities in the extracts of five Japanese traditional cereal grains were analyzed by using an assay system of lipid peroxidation and a radical compound, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). DPPH radical-scavenging activities in the extracts of Japanese cereal grains were divided into two groups. One group including Japanese sorghum, black rice and red rice showed strong radical-scavenging activities, but the other group including Japanese barnyard millet and foxtail millet did not exhibit significant radical-scavenging activities. The DPPH radical-scavenging activities of these extracts were closely correlated to the contents of phenolic compound in the extracts, but not to the sugar or protein content in the extracts. In contrast, all the methanol and water extracts of the cereal grains caused significant antioxidant activities against hydroperoxide generation in the peroxidation of linoleic acid, in which the water extracts of these cereal grains caused much higher antioxidant activities than the methanol extracts of the same cereals. These results suggest that Japanese traditional cereals contain qualitatively different principles associated with antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities, and possible principles responsible for the antioxidant and radical-scavenging activities in the cereal grains are discussed.

  2. The ejector flowmeter as air/oxygen mixing device. An apparatus providing gas mixtures with adjustable oxygen content for high-flow humidification systems.

    PubMed

    Christensen, K N; Waaben, J; Jørgensen, S

    1980-04-01

    The ejector flowmeter is constructed for continuous removal of excess gas from anaesthetic circuits. This instrument can be used as an air/oxygen mixing device for high-flow humidification systems in wards where compressed air is not available. Pure oxygen is used as driving gas through the ejector. A nomogram has been constructed to show the relationship between oxygen driving pressure, inlet of air to the flowmeter, FIO2 and total outflow.

  3. Oxygen index tests of thermosetting resins

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gilwee, W. J., Jr.; Parker, J. A.; Kourtides, D. A.

    1980-01-01

    The flammability characteristics of nine thermosetting resins under evaluation for use in aircraft interiors are described. These resins were evaluated using the Oxygen Index (ASTM 2863) testing procedure. The test specimens consisted of both neat resin and glass reinforced resin. When testing glass-reinforced samples it was observed that Oxygen Index values varied inversely with resin content. Oxygen values were also obtained on specimens exposed to temperatures up to 300 C. All specimens experienced a decline in Oxygen Index when tested at an elevated temperature.

  4. Regulatory mechanisms of hemoglobin oxygen affinity in acidosis and alkalosis

    PubMed Central

    Bellingham, A. J.; Detter, J. C.; Lenfant, C.

    1971-01-01

    The recent reports of the effect of 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (2,3-DPG) on hemoglobin affinity for oxygen suggested that this substance may play a role in man's adaptation to acidosis and alkalosis. A study of the effect of induced acidosis and alkalosis on the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve of normal man was therefore carried out, and the mechanisms involved in the physiological regulation of hemoglobin oxygen affinity examined. In acute changes of plasma pH there was no alteration in red cell 2,3-DPG content. However, there were changes in hemoglobin oxygen affinity and these correlated with changes in mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC). With maintained acidosis and alkalosis, red cell 2,3-DPG content was altered and correlated with the changes in hemoglobin oxygen affinity. Both of these mechanisms shift the hemoglobin oxygen dissociation curve opposite to the direct pH (Bohr) effect, and providing the rate of pH change is neither too rapid nor too large, they counteract the direct pH effect and the in vivo hemoglobin oxygen affinity remains unchanged. It is also shown that approximately 35% of the change in hemoglobin oxygen affinity resulting from an alteration in red cell 2,3-DPG, is explained by effect of 2,3-DPG on the red cell pH. PMID:5545127

  5. Raman study of HgBa 2Ca n-1 Cu nO 2 n+2+ δ ( n=1,2,3,4 and 5) superconductors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhou, Xingjiang; Cardona, M.; Chu, C. W.; Lin, Q. M.; Loureiro, S. M.; Marezio, M.

    1996-02-01

    Polarized micro-Raman scattering measurements have been performed on the five members of the HgBa 2Ca n-1 Cu nO 2 n+2+ δ ( n=1,2,3,4 and 5) high- Tc superconductor family using different laser frequencies. Local laser annealing measurements were carried out to investigate the variation of the Raman spectra with the excess oxygen content, δ. A systematic evolution of the spectra, which display mainly peaks near 590, 570, 540 and 470 cm -1, with increasing number of CuO 2 layers has been observed; its origin has been shown to lie in the variation of the interstitial oxygen content. In addition to confirming that the 590 cm -1 mode represents vibration of apical oxygens in the absence of neighboring excess oxygen, the 570 cm -1 mode, which may be composed of some finer structures, has been assigned to the vibration of the apical oxygen modified by the presence of the neighboring excess oxygens. The 540 and 470 cm -1 modes may represent the direct vibration of excess oxygens. The implication of possible different distribution sites of excess oxygens is discussed. All other observed lower-frequency modes are also assigned.

  6. Honey melanoidins: Analysis of the compositions of the high molecular weight melanoidins exhibiting radical-scavenging activity.

    PubMed

    Brudzynski, Katrina; Miotto, Danielle

    2011-08-01

    Size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and activity-guided fractionation of honeys allowed the isolation of high molecular weight brown compounds, ranging in size from 66 to 235kDa that exhibited peroxyl radical-scavenging activity. Their concentrations, antioxidant activity and degree of browning increased after heat-treatment of honeys, suggesting that they represent melanoidins. Chemical analysis of melanoidins demonstrated the presence of proteins, polyphenols and oligosaccharides. Heat-treatment caused an increased incorporation of phenolics into high molecular weight melanoidins and drastically decreased the protein content in these fractions with a concomitant appearance of high molecular weight protein-polyphenol complexes of reduced solubility. LC-ESI-MS demonstrated the presence of oligosaccharide moieties, supporting the postulated origin of melanoidins. The changes in the phenolic content of melanoidins from heated honeys were strongly correlated with their oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values (R=0.75, p<0.0001), indicating that polyphenols contribute to the antioxidant activity of melanoidins. In summary, honey melanoidins are multi-component polymers consisting of protein-polyphenol-oligosaccharide complexes. A direct interaction between polyphenols and melanoidins resulted in a loss or gain of function for melanoidin antioxidant activity. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  7. Bibliography on contaminants and solubility of organic compounds in oxygen

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ordin, P. M. (Compiler)

    1975-01-01

    A compilation of a number of document citations is presented which contains information on contaminants in oxygen. Topics covered include contaminants and solubility of organic compounds in oxygen, reaction characteristics of organic compounds with oxygen, and sampling and detection limits of impurities. Each citation in the data bank contains many items of information about the document. Some of the items are title, author, abstract, corporate source, description of figures pertinent to hazards or safety, key references, and descriptors (keywords) by which the document can be retrieved. Each citation includes an evaluation of the technical contents as to being good/excellent, acceptable, or poor. The descriptors used to define the contents of the documents and subsequently used in the computerized search operations were developed for the cryogenic fluid safety by experts in the cryogenics field.

  8. Rapamycin reverses paraquat-induced acute lung injury in a rat model through inhibition of NFκB activation

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Da; Ma, Tao; Liu, Xiao-Wei; Yang, Chen; Liu, Zhi

    2015-01-01

    Objective: To evaluate the role of rapamycin (RAPA) in paraquat (PQ)-induced acute lung injury. Methods: Lung tissues were stained with HE and lung histology was observed. Mortality rate, and neutrophil and leukocyte count in blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were recorded. Protein content in BALF was determined by Coomassie blue staining. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in blood were determined by thiobarbituric acid (TBA) assay, pyrogallol autoxidation method, and modified Haefman method, respectively. The NF-κB activity was measured by gel electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). Carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO2), partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and pH values were measured by automated blood gas analyzer. Results: HE staining results demonstrated RAPA alleviated pathological changes of acute alveolitis in SD rats. Trend of protein content in BALF was PQ group > RAPA treatment group > control group (P < 0.05). Neutrophil and leukocyte count in RAPA treatment group was significantly lower than PQ group at 3, 5, and 7 days after injection (P < 0.05). Trend of MDA content was RAPA treatment group > PQ group > control group (P < 0.05). Trend of GSH-Px and SOD activity was control group > RAPA treatment group > PQ group (P < 0.05). Compared with PQ group, PaO2 in RAPA treatment group was markedly higher and PaCO2 was lower (P < 0.05). Conclusion: PQ-induced acute lung injury was effectively reversed with RAPA, through inhibition of NF-κB activation. PMID:26191153

  9. Antioxidative and antibacterial activities of aqueous ethanol extracts of berries, leaves, and branches of berry plants.

    PubMed

    Tian, Ye; Puganen, Anna; Alakomi, Hanna-Leena; Uusitupa, Aleksi; Saarela, Maria; Yang, Baoru

    2018-04-01

    Phenolic compounds were extracted with food grade solvent of acidified aqueous ethanol from leaves, berries, berry press cakes, and branches of Finnish berry plants and analyzed with HPLC-DAD, UPLC-DAD-ESI-MS and NMR. In addition, press cakes from two berry species and branches from one species were also extracted and analyzed with the same methods. The antioxidant activities of the extracts were evaluated using Folin-Ciocalteau, oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), DPPH free radical scavenging, and total radical trapping antioxidant parameter (TRAP) assays. The antibacterial activities were investigated against various Gram-negative and Gram-positive foodborne pathogens. The leaf extracts showed higher antioxidative activities (3-20 fold in ORAC assay, 10-20 fold in TRAP) than the berry extracts, in association with the higher contents of phenolic compounds in the leaf extracts; Strongest anti-bacterial effects was observed in the leaf extracts of lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea), sea buckthorn (Hippophaë rhamnoides ssp. rhamnoides) and saskatoon (Amelanchier alnifolia) on Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, and Bacillus cereus. However, the antibacterial efficacy varied with bacterial species and strains. The Folin-Ciocalteu, ORAC, and TRAP values was strongly correlated with the total content of flavonoids with less association shown with the content of total phenolics and flavonol glycosides. The results suggest a major contribution of pranthocyanidins and flavan-3-ols to the antioxidative activities of the extracts. The growth inhibition on Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus was clearly associated with the content of total phenolics and ellagitannins. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Hispidin and related herbal compounds from Alpinia zerumbet inhibit both PAK1-dependent melanogenesis in melanocytes and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in adipocytes.

    PubMed

    Be Tu, Pham Thi; Chompoo, Jamnian; Tawata, Shinkichi

    2015-06-01

    Recently several compounds from Okinawa plants including Alpinia zerumbet (alpinia) were shown to inhibit directly the oncogenic/ageing kinase PAK1 (p21-activated kinase 1). Furthermore, it was recently revealed that both PAK1 and PAK4 (p21-activated kinase 4) are equally essential for the melanogenesis in melanoma cells. Thus, in this study, we tested if several alpinia compounds inhibit the melanogenesis in melanoma (B16F10) cells, as well as the PAK1-dependent up-regulation of both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) in cultured adipocytes (3T3-L1) without any cytotoxicity. The effect of alpinia compounds on the melanogenesis was measured by both the melanin content and intracellular tyrosinase activity in melanoma cells treated with 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), a melanogenesis stimulating hormone. We found that (1E,3E,5E)-6-methoxyhexa-1,3,5-trien-1-yl)-2,5-dihydrofuran (MTD), 5,6-dehydrokawain (DK), labdadiene, hispidin and dihydro-5,6-dehydrokawain (DDK) at 50 μg/mL reduced the melanin content by 63-79%. The MTD, DK and hispidin, at 50 μg/mL, inhibited tyrosinase activity by 70-83% in melanoma cells. Among these compounds, labdadiene, MTD, (E)-2,2,3,3-Tetramethyl8-methylene-7-(oct-6-en-1-yl)octahydro-1H-quinolizine (TMOQ) and hispidin strongly inhibited the ROS production. Hispidin, labdadiene and MTD at 20 μg/mL inhibited NO production by over 70%. These findings altogether suggest that some of these alpinia compounds could be potentially useful for the prevention or treatment of hyperpigmentation and obesity.

  11. An Assessment on Temperature Profile of Jet-A/Biodiesel Mixture in a Simple Combustion Chamber with Plain Orifice Atomiser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ng, W. X.; Mazlan, N. M.; Ismail, M. A.; Rajendran, P.

    2018-05-01

    The preliminary study to evaluate influence of biodiesel/kerosene mixtures on combustion temperature profile is explored. A simple cylindrical combustion chamber configuration with plain orifice atomiser is used for the evaluation. The evaluation is performed under stoichiometric air to fuel ratio. Six samples of fuels are used: 100BD (pure biodiesel), 100KE (pure Jet-A), 20KE80BD (20% Jet-A/80% Biodiesel), 40KE60BD (40% Jet-A/60% Biodiesel), 60KE40BD (60% Jet-A/40% Biodiesel), and 80KE20BD (80% Jet-A/20% Biodiesel). Results showed that the oxygen content, viscosity, and lower heating value are key parameters in affecting the temperature profile inside the chamber. Biodiesel is known to have higher energy content, higher viscosity and lower heating value compared to kerosene. Mixing biodiesel with kerosene improves viscosity and caloric value but reduces oxygen content of the fuel. High oxygen content of the biodiesel resulted to the highest flame temperature. However the flame temperature reduce as the percentage of biodiesel in the fuel mixture reduces.

  12. Nutrient recovery from swine waste and protein biomass production using duckweed ponds (Landoltia punctata): southern Brazil.

    PubMed

    Mohedano, R A; Velho, V F; Costa, R H R; Hofmann, S M; Belli Filho, P

    2012-01-01

    Brazil is one of the most important countries in pork production worldwide, ranking third. This activity has an important role in the national economic scenario. However, the fast growth of this activity has caused major environmental impacts, especially in developing countries. The large amount of nitrogen and phosphorus compounds found in pig manure has caused ecological imbalances, with eutrophication of major river basins in the producing regions. Moreover, much of the pig production in developing countries occurs on small farms, and therefore causes diffuse pollution. Therefore, duckweed pond have been successfully used in the swine waste polishing, generating further a biomass with high protein content. The present study evaluated the efficiency of two full scale duckweed ponds for the polishing of a small pig farm effluent, biomass yield and crude protein (CP) content. Duckweed pond series received the effluent from a biodigester-storage pond, with a flow rate of 1 m(3)/day (chemical oxygen demand rate = 186 kg/ha day) produced by 300 animals. After 1 year a great improvement of effluent quality was observed, with removal of 96% of total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and 89% of total phosphorus (TP), on average. Nitrogen removal rate is one of the highest ever found (4.4 g TKN/m(2) day). Also, the dissolved oxygen rose from 0.0 to 3.0 mg/L. The two ponds produced together over 13 tons of fresh biomass (90.5% moisture), with 35% of CP content, which represents a productivity of 24 tonsCP/ha year. Due to the high rate of nutrient removal, and also the high protein biomass production, duckweed ponds revealed, under the presented conditions, a great potential for the polishing and valorization of swine waste. Nevertheless, this technology should be better exploited to improve the sustainability of small pig farms in order to minimize the impacts of this activity on the environment.

  13. Optoelectronic properties of valence-state-controlled amorphous niobium oxide

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Onozato, Takaki; Katase, Takayoshi; Yamamoto, Akira; Katayama, Shota; Matsushima, Koichi; Itagaki, Naho; Yoshida, Hisao; Ohta, Hiromichi

    2016-06-01

    In order to understand the optoelectronic properties of amorphous niobium oxide (a-NbO x ), we have investigated the valence states, local structures, electrical resistivity, and optical absorption of a-NbO x thin films with various oxygen contents. It was found that the valence states of Nb ion in a-NbO x films can be controlled from 5+  to 4+  by reducing oxygen pressure during film deposition at room temperature, together with changing the oxide-ion arrangement around Nb ion from Nb2O5-like to NbO2-like local structure. As a result, a four orders of magnitude reduction in the electrical resistivity of a-NbO x films was observed with decreasing oxygen content, due to the carrier generation caused by the appearance and increase of an oxygen-vacancy-related subgap state working as an electron donor. The tunable optoelectronic properties of a-NbO x films by valence-state-control with oxygen-vacancy formation will be useful for potential flexible optoelectronic device applications.

  14. Quantitative analysis of oxygen content in copper oxide films using ultra microbalance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shu, Yonghua; Wang, Lianhong; Liu, Chong; Fan, Jing

    2014-12-01

    Copper oxide films were prepared on quartz substrates through electron beam physical vapor deposition in a vacuum chamber, and the films were observed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The oxygen content of the films were analyzed using an ultra microbalance. Results indicated that when the substrate was heated to 600°C and the oxygen flow rate was 5 sccm, the film was composed of 47% Cu and 53% Cu2O (mass percent), and the oxidation ratio of copper was 25%. After the deposition process at the same condition, i.e. the substrate at temperature of 600°C and blowed by oxygen flowrate of 5 sccm, then in-stu annealed at 600°C in low oxygen pressure of 10 Pa for 30 minutes, the film composition became 22% Cu2O and 78% CuO (mass percent), and the oxidation ratio of copper greatly increased to about 88%.

  15. Oxygen in the Martian atmosphere: Regulation of PO2 by the deposition of iron formations on Mars

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Burns, Roger G.

    1992-01-01

    During Earth's early history, and prior to the evolution of its present day oxygenated atmosphere, extensive iron rich siliceous sedimentary rocks were deposited, consisting of alternating layers of silica (chert) and iron oxide minerals (hematite and magnetite). The banding in iron formations recorded changes of atmosphere-hydrosphere interactions near sea level in the ancient ocean, which induced the oxidation of dissolved ferrous iron, precipitation of insoluble ferric oxides and silica, and regulation of oxygen in Earth's early atmosphere. Similarities between the Archean Earth and the composition of the present day atmosphere on Mars, together with the pervasive presence of ferric oxides in the Martian regolith suggest that iron formation might also have been deposited on Mars and influenced the oxygen content of the Martian atmosphere. Such a possibility is discussed here with a view to assessing whether the oxygen content of the Martian atmosphere has been regulated by the chemical precipitation of iron formations on Mars.

  16. Can the hemoglobin characteristics of vesicomyid clam species influence their distribution in deep-sea sulfide-rich sediments? A case study in the Angola Basin

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Decker, C.; Zorn, N.; Le Bruchec, J.; Caprais, J. C.; Potier, N.; Leize-Wagner, E.; Lallier, F. H.; Olu, K.; Andersen, A. C.

    2017-08-01

    Vesicomyids live in endosymbiosis with sulfur-oxidizing bacteria and therefore need hydrogen sulfide to survive. They can nevertheless live in a wide range of sulfide and oxygen levels and depths, which may explain the exceptional diversity of this clam family in deep-sea habitats. In the Gulf of Guinea, nine species of vesicomyid clams are known to live in cold-seep areas with pockmarks from 600 to 3200 m deep, as well as in the organic-rich sediments of the Congo deep-sea fan at 5000 m deep. Our previous study showed that two species living in a giant pockmark have different oxygen carriers, suggesting different adaptations to hypoxia. Here, we studied the hemoglobin structure and oxygen affinity in three other species, Calyptogena valdiviae, Elenaconcha guiness and Abyssogena southwardae to determine whether the characteristics of their oxygen carriers contribute to their distribution in sulfide-rich sediments at a regional scale. Documenting pairwise species associations in various proportions, we give a semi-quantitative account of their local distribution and oxygen and sulfide measurements at seven sites. Mass spectrometry showed that each vesicomyid species has four intracellular monomeric hemoglobin molecules of 15-16 kDa, all differing in their molecular mass. As expected, the monomers showed no cooperativity in oxygen binding. Their oxygen affinities were very high (below 1 Torr), but differed significantly. C. valdiviae had the highest affinity and was dominant in the Harp pockmark, the site with the lowest oxygen content (half the value of fully oxygenated water). A. southwardae dominated in the Congo Lobe area, the site with the deepest sulfides. We discuss how hemoglobin may favor an active, vertical distribution of vesicomyids in sulfide-rich sediments.

  17. Bioactive compounds of juices from two Brazilian grape cultivars.

    PubMed

    da Silva, Juliana Kelly; Cazarin, Cinthia Baú Betim; Correa, Luiz Claudio; Batista, Ângela Giovana; Furlan, Cibele Priscila Busch; Biasoto, Aline Camarão Telles; Pereira, Giuliano Elias; de Camargo, Adriano Costa; Maróstica Junior, Mário Roberto

    2016-04-01

    Grape juice consumption may prevent several chronic diseases owing to the presence of phenolic compounds, which have an important role in the reduction of oxidative stress. This study investigated the polyphenol content and antioxidant activities of grape juices from two cultivars: BRS-Cora and Isabella. Total polyphenol content (TPC), anthocyanins, antioxidant capacity (oxygen radical absorbance capacity, ferric reducing antioxidant power and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl), and phenolic profile (high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and fluorescence detection--HPLC-DAD-FLD) were determined. BRS-Cora grape juice showed higher concentrations of total polyphenols and anthocyanins, as well as higher antioxidant potential, than those of Isabella grape juice. A significant positive correlation was found in TPC or anthocyanin contents when correlated with the remaining antioxidant assays. In addition, HPLC-DAD-FLD showed a higher total phenolic content in BRS-Cora grape juice compared to Isabella. The present results show BRS-Cora as a promising cultivar for grape juice production with an improved functional potential. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

  18. The ecology of fiddler crab Uca forcipata in mangrove forest

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mokhtari, Mohammad; Ghaffar, Mazlan Abd; Usup, Gires; Cob, Zaidi Che

    2013-11-01

    Fiddler crab burrows increase oxygen dispersion in anoxic mangrove sediment and promote iron reduction and nitrification process over sulfate reduction in subsurface sediment. Therefore it is expected to accelerate decomposition rate under oxic and suboxic conditions. In this study the effect of environmental parameters on the local distribution of U. forcipata and subsequently the effect of crab burrows on sediment characteristics were investigated. Our result indicated that U. forcipata prefers to live in the open mudflats under the shade of mangrove trees. The most important factors determining their presence were sediment texture, porosity, organic content, water content, carbon content and temperature. Measurement of redox potential and iron pools clearly indicated a distinct oxidized layer around burrows although sediment porosity, organic and water content did not differ significantly between burrowed and non-burrowed mudflats and even among the burrow profiles. This result implies the oxidation created by burrowing activity of U .forcipata was not efficient to change physical properties of mangrove sediments.

  19. The effect of melt refining upon inclusions in aluminum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simensen, C. J.

    1982-03-01

    A series of aluminum melts has been refined with respect to inclusions by use of ALCOA 469, FILD, or SNIF. The content and size distribution of inclusions in the original-and the refined melts-have been measured by use of neutron activation (oxygen content), gas chromatography (carbide content), sedimentation analysis, and dissolution of metal in hydrochloric acid and subsequent analysis of oxides by means of a Coulter Counter. All the units tested have a beneficial effect and decrease the inclusion content, but the number of analyses are too few to make general conclusions. However, for melts cleaned by use of SNIF, it was found that oxides larger than 50 μm in cross section and borides larger than 20 μm in diameter were removed, while the smaller borides were agglomerated only. The effect of FILD and ALCOA 469 upon the melt tested was removal of borides larger than 5-10 μ m and oxides larger than 15μm in diameter, respectively.

  20. Computational Model for Oxygen Transport and Consumption in Human Vitreous

    PubMed Central

    Filas, Benjamen A.; Shui, Ying-Bo; Beebe, David C.

    2013-01-01

    Purpose. Previous studies that measured liquefaction and oxygen content in human vitreous suggested that exposure of the lens to excess oxygen causes nuclear cataracts. Here, we developed a computational model that reproduced available experimental oxygen distributions for intact and degraded human vitreous in physiologic and environmentally perturbed conditions. After validation, the model was used to estimate how age-related changes in vitreous physiology and structure alter oxygen levels at the lens. Methods. A finite-element model for oxygen transport and consumption in the human vitreous was created. Major inputs included ascorbate-mediated oxygen consumption in the vitreous, consumption at the posterior lens surface, and inflow from the retinal vasculature. Concentration-dependent relations were determined from experimental human data or estimated from animal studies, with the impact of all assumptions explored via parameter studies. Results. The model reproduced experimental data in humans, including oxygen partial pressure (Po2) gradients (≈15 mm Hg) across the anterior-posterior extent of the vitreous body, higher oxygen levels at the pars plana relative to the vitreous core, increases in Po2 near the lens after cataract surgery, and equilibration in the vitreous chamber following vitrectomy. Loss of the antioxidative capacity of ascorbate increases oxygen levels 3-fold at the lens surface. Homogeneous vitreous degeneration (liquefaction), but not partial posterior vitreous detachment, greatly increases oxygen exposure to the lens. Conclusions. Ascorbate content and the structure of the vitreous gel are critical determinants of lens oxygen exposure. Minimally invasive surgery and restoration of vitreous structure warrant further attention as strategies for preventing nuclear cataracts. PMID:24008409

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