bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sharing Economy in Deutschland
Authors: Busch Christoph , Demary Vera , Engels Barbara , Haucap Justus , Kehder Christiane , Loebert Ina , Rusche Christian
Published: February 2019

Das Wachstum der Sharing Economy birgt sowohl Chancen als auch Herausforderungen. Das Buch analysiert verschiedene Sektoren der Sharing Economy empirisch, mit einem Schwerpunkt auf dem Unterkunftssektor. Die Autoren erörtern Regulierungsoptionen und unterbreiten Vorschläge für Reallabore.
Cooperation Mechanisms within the Administrative Framework of European Financial Supervision
Authors: Wolff Ann-Katrin
Published: February 2019

In response to the European financial crisis, the European Union and its Member States have implemented administrative cooperation mechanisms in the field of European financial supervision to ensure the uniform and coherent application of European supervisory law within the European Union’s composite administration bodies. On the basis of three quintessential areas of supervisory law, namely the acquisition of information, and preventive and corrective supervisory measures, this book analyses the mechanisms created with regard to their legally binding character and the possibility of them influencing European and EU Member States’ supervisory authorities. Furthermore, its author identifies the structures of effective cooperation mechanisms in multilevel administrative systems. The study thus contributes to the systematisation and a better understanding of European multilevel governance and identifies important parameters for reorganising administrative cooperation in European supervisory law in the future.
The Biospecimen Preanalytical Variables Program: A Multiassay Comparison of Effects of Delay to Fixation and Fixation Duration on Nucleic Acid Quality
Authors: Carithers Latarsha J. , Agarwal Rachana , Guan Ping , Odeh Hana , Sachs Michael C. , Engel Kelly B. , Greytak Sarah R. , Barcus Mary , Soria Conrado , Lih Chih-Jian (Jason) , Williams P. Mickey , Branton Philip A. , Sobin Leslie , Fombonne Benjamin , Bocklage Therese , Andry Chris , Duffy Elizabeth R. , Sica Gabriel , Dhir Rajiv , Jewell Scott , Roche Nancy , Moore Helen M. ,   for the National Cancer Institute Biospecimen Preanalytical Variables Research Program
Published: February 2019

Context.—

Despite widespread use of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue in clinical and research settings, potential effects of variable tissue processing remain largely unknown.

Objective.—

To elucidate molecular effects associated with clinically relevant preanalytical variability, the National Cancer Institute initiated the Biospecimen Preanalytical Variables (BPV) program.

Design.—

The BPV program, a well-controlled series of systematic, blind and randomized studies, investigated whether a delay to fixation (DTF) or time in fixative (TIF) affects the quantity and quality of DNA and RNA isolated from FFPE colon, kidney, and ovarian tumors in comparison to case-matched snap-frozen controls.

Results.—

DNA and RNA yields were comparable among FFPE biospecimens subjected to different DTF and TIF time points. DNA and RNA quality metrics revealed assay- and time point–specific effects of DTF and TIF. A quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay was superior when assessing RNA quality, consistently detecting differences between FFPE and snap-frozen biospecimens and among DTF and TIF time points. RNA Integrity Number and DV200 (representing the percentage of RNA fragments longer than 200 nucleotides) displayed more limited sensitivity. Differences in DNA quality (Q-ratio) between FFPE and snap-frozen biospecimens and among DTF and TIF time points were detected with a qPCR-based assay.

Conclusions.—

DNA and RNA quality may be adversely affected in some tumor types by a 12-hour DTF or a TIF of 72 hours. Results presented here as well as those of additional BPV molecular analyses underway will aid in the identification of acceptable delays and optimal fixation times, and quality assays that are suitable predictors of an FFPE biospecimen's fit-for-purpose.
Making Sense of Logarithms as Counting Divisions
Authors: Weber Christof
Published: February 2019

Describe taking a logarithm as repeated division to allow students to build on what they know about division, instead of relying solely on the exponential definition.
Música negra en los Andes colombianos. Historia y política de las sonoridades Afro en Girardota-Antioquia
Authors:   Universidad Nacional de Colombia - sede Medellín, Larraín América , Madrid Pedro José ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Published: February 2019

O objetivo deste artigo é oferecer uma reflexão sobre as manifestações artísticas de uma comunidade afrodescendente no departamento de Antioquia, noroeste colombiano. Partindo de um trabalho de campo interdisciplinar exploramos com especial atenção a música de corda pulsada que tem permitido visibilizar a nível regional, nacional e internacional, a intérpretes e compositores de dita comunidade. A contribuição da pesquisa consignada neste texto, é expor o papel central de ditas manifestações na afirmação étnica de dita comunidade, onde de forma diferente a outros grupos afro do continente, não existe uma tradição musical de percussão. A pesquisa conclui que o grupo estudado firma sua identidade a partir da interpretação de música e de outras práticas que estão associadas a uma origem ibérica, mas que no contexto local, têm sido apropriadas e incorporadas como parte de sua herança e tradições.
Sonata para piano n. 1 de Francisco Mignone: uma comparação de performances
Authors:   Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Soares Nayane Nogueira , Gerling Cristina Capparelli
Published: February 2019

Este texto apresenta um recorte de uma investigação sobre as decisões interpretativas relacionadas ao timing, dinâmica e articulação de quatro execuções do primeiro movimento da Sonata para piano n.1 de Francisco Mignone. Por meio da comparação de gravações, foram identificadas estratégias expressivas adotadas pelos intérpretes profissionalmente reconhecidos por seu nível de expertise. No processo de comparação torna-se evidente como o direcionamento expressivo do discurso musical em determinados trechos da obra é determinado por manipulações coordenadas de timing e dinâmica.
Procedural Aspects of the Work of Land and Castle Courts in Samogitia (1600–1630)
Authors: Vilimas Darius
Published: February 2019

Juridical culture of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania is a multi-faceted phenomenon in the life of a “nation of nobles” of that time and it needs to be examined on a broader scale. In addition to other collections, the main part of a set of historical sources is stored at the Manuscript Department of the Vilnius University Library. Seventy-four manuscript books of Samogitian courts (1600–1630) have survived to the present time: two books of castle courts and 72 books of land courts. If the books of castle courts serve as an example of just a fragmentary activity, the books of the land courts are highly multisided and represent diverse aspects of the life of the nobles. The books of the land court of Samogitia of that period are divided into the groups of court acts (series A) and the court cases (series B). For the research into juridical culture, the books of the court case group, of which there are 47 units and which are further subdivided into the subgroups of proceedings and currents affairs, are of the greater interest. The Samogitian court books offer a sufficient basis of sources for the examination of the judicial culture of the nobility at the beginning of the seventeen century. It is therefore highly likely that research will be productive and will reveal intriguing shifts in the mentality of the Samogitian nobles.
On the synthesis of polyphenylene sulfide and copolymers based on it by the reaction of nonequilibrium polycondensation
Authors: Kurdanova Zhanna I. , Shakhmurzova Kamila T. , Baikaziev Artur E. , Mamkhegov Rustam M. , Zhansitov Azamat A. , Khashirova Svatlana Yu.
Published: February 2019

Polyphenylene sulfide is a semicrystalline engineering thermoplastic, in the world market of superconstructive materials is presented in two modifications: the first is a cross-linked material, the second is a linear polymer with a highly ordered supramolecular structure.Polyphenylene sulfides, synthesized according to the classical procedure in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, are characterized by low molecular weight characteristics due to the occurrence of side reactions. The main yield of the target product does not exceed 45%, even with an increase in the synthesis time of up to 120 hours.Polymers with higher viscosity characteristics can be obtained by heat treatment of synthesized polyphenylene sulfide at 240-260 °С. Copolymers with new monomeric fragments, such as sulfonic, ketone, amide, imide, etc., have been synthesized, which lead to amorphous polymers. The copolymers obtained are well soluble at room temperature and have a higher yield and a molecular weight. The introduction of cyclic groups into the macromolecule of polyphenylene sulfide results in an increase in heat resistance (500 °C) and solubility. Over the past 10-15 years, special attention has been paid to the synthesis of macrocyclic oligomers, which are used subsequently for the preparation of high molecular copolymers by a ring-opening polymerization reaction. This technique allows to obtain polymers in a short time and without the formation of by-products.During the synthesis of copolymers, extensive knowledge of the effect of the chemical structure on the performance properties of materials was obtained, and new methods were developed that reduced the possibility of percolation reactions. Thus, the synthesis of new polyheteroarylenes becomes topical, the review reflects the results of research over the past few years on the development on their basis of materials with unique valuable properties.
STUDY OF SORPTION OF Cr(III) IONS BY PHOSPHORUS-CONTAINING POLYMER SORBENT
Authors: Karimova Ellada S. , Azizov Abdulsayid A. , Alosmanov Rasim M.
Published: February 2019

The paper presents the results of a study on the sorption of Cr(III) ions from aqueous solutions using phosphorus-containing sorbent based on butadiene-styrene rubber of the DSKK brand. This sorbent was synthesized by the reaction of oxidative chlorophosphorylation of butadiene-styrene rubber of the DSKK brand using PCl3, CCl4, H2SO4 and O2 under laboratory conditions. The effect of various parameters, such as the pH of the solution, the initial concentration of metal ions, the sorbent mass, the contact time of the phases, and the temperature on the sorption efficiency of Cr(III) ions have been studied. The sorption capacity and the degree of sorption were calculated on the basis of the concentration data obtained from the analysis of samples on the ISP MS 7700e mass spectrometer. A decrease in the degree of sorption of Cr(III) ions in acidic and alkaline media is established, and an acid-poor medium is the optimal condition for sorption. The increase in the temperature and mass of the sorbent positively affects sorption. The degree of sorption decreases with increasing initial concentration of Cr(III) ions. This indicates that the phosphorus-containing sorbent based on butadiene-styrene rubber of the DSSC brand has a limited number of active sites for sorption, and at lower concentrations almost all Cr(III) ions were sorbed. However, an increase in the initial concentration of Cr(III) ions leads to a rapid saturation of the surface of the sorbent. It has also been established that equilibrium is established at room temperature after 40 minutes. Experimental results have shown that a phosphorus-based sorbent based on butadiene-styrene rubber can be successfully used to extract Cr(III) ions from aqueous solutions.
КАТОДНОЕ ВЫДЕЛЕНИЕ ВОДОРОДА НА ДИСИЛИЦИДЕ ЖЕЛЕЗА. II. КИСЛАЯ СРЕДА
Authors: Kuzminykh M.M. , Panteleeva V.V. , Shein A.B.
Published: February 2019

Исследованы кинетика и механизм реакции выделения водорода на FeSi2-электроде в растворе 0,5 M H2SO4. Установлено, что реакция выделения водорода на дисилициде железа в сернокислом электролите протекает по маршруту разряд – электрохимическая десорбция, где десорбция – скорость-определяющая стадия, обе стадии необратимы, коэффициенты переноса стадий равны, одновременно протекает реакция абсорбции водорода в кинетическом режиме (во всем изученном интервале потенциалов), адсорбция атомарного водорода описывается уравнением изотермы Ленгмюра. Отмечается влияние тонкой оксидной пленки, близкой по составу к SiO2, на кинетику выделения водорода на FeSi2 при невысоких катодных поляризациях. Изучено влияние различных способов модификации поверхностного слоя FeSi2-электрода на кинетику и механизм катодного процесса. Обнаружено, что модификация поверхности дисилицида железа наводороживанием в 0,5 M H2SO4 при i = 30 мА/см2, анодным травлением в 0,5 M H2SO4 при E = 0,4 В (ст.в.э.), анодным травлением в 1,0 M NaOH при E = 0,1 В (ст.в.э.), химическим травлением в 5,0 M NaOH при 70 °С снижает перенапряжение выделения водорода; механизм катодного процесса в результате модификации не изменяется. На основе измерений дифференциальной емкости выявлено, что уменьшение перенапряжения выделения водорода на дисилициде железа обусловлено действием двух факторов: развитием поверхности и изменением состава поверхностного слоя электрода. Сделан вывод, что FeSi2 в сернокислом электролите представляет перспективный электродный материал, проявляющий активность в реакции электрохимического выделения водорода.
Extraction of lead and zinc perchlorates by diantipyrylmethanes and aryl-di-(1-hexyl-5-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-pyrazolyl)methanes
Authors: Lesnov Andrey E.
Published: February 2019

The extraction ability of the diantipyrylmethane and aryl-di-(1-hexyl-5-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-pyrazolyl)methane derivatives has been studied by the example of zinc and lead perchlorates extracted into chloroform and dichloroethane. Zinc and lead are extracted from solutions with pH 4.8 and 5.8, respectively, as a [ML2(ClO4)2 complex wherein M = Zn2+; Pb2+, L is the molecule of the reagent. The effective extraction constants were calculated. Diantipyrylmethane exhibits maximal extraction ability. The extraction properties are worsened by the substituents at the methylene atom. In the case of phenyldiantipitylmethane derivatives, a correlation between the values of the extraction constants and the Hammett s constants of the substituents in the phenyl radical is observed. A decrease in the extraction ability of diantipyrylmethane derivatives with introducing of the substituents to the methylene carbon atom is explained by steric factors. In accordance with quantum-chemical calculation, the zinc complex with diantipyrylmethane has a tetrahedral structure but in the case of substituted reagents this structure is flat and less characteristic for zinc atoms. The diantipyrylmethane derivatives exhibit maximal extraction ability in dichloroethane solutions. For reagents of the second group, a correlation between the values of the effective extraction constants of zinc and lead with the values of the Hammet s constants of substituents in the phenyl radical is observed. Chloroform appears to be the best diluent. Unlike diantipyrylmethane derivatives which extract lead better, phenyl-di-(1-hexyl-5-hydroxy-3-methyl-4-pyrazolyl)methane derivatives show better extraction ability to zinc ions. Replacement of the aliphatic hexyl substituent in the first position of the pyrazole ring with more electronegative substituents, phenyl or 2-pyridyl-, leads to the worsening of extraction ability. Extraction of zinc and lead ions by phenyl-di-(5-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-phenyl-4-pyrazolyl)methane and phenyl-di-(5-hydroxy-3-methyl-1-(2-pyridyl)-4-pyrazolyl)methane is practically absent.
STUDY OF THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION AND PROPERTIES OF THE BIOMASS OF CHLORELLA SOROKINIANA UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT PHYSICAL FACTORS
Authors: Smyatskaya Yuliya A. , Kuznetsova Тatiyana А. , Politaeva Nataliya A. , Amira Toumi , Atamaniuk Irina V. , Razgovorov Pavel B.
Published: February 2019

The paper presents data on the actual issue ofthe usage of the microalgae Chlorella sorokiniana in the biotechnological field. Its vitamin and amino acid contents, which arehigher than in soy, enriches its nutritional value.This article also provides information on the utilization of chlorella as an enrichment supplement to develop a modern Life Support Systemfor manned spacecraft. Based on the data collected from various bibliographical studies, it is recommended to take into account the established positive effect of light exposure on the microalgae for the production of astaxanthin, as well as, to vary the composition of the nutrient medium in order to obtain a dry microalgae biomass with a fixed lipid, protein and starch content. The influence of various physical factors on the specificity of biochemical processes in the cell and the variation in the composition of dry biomass in the cultivation of Chlorella sorokiniana was studied. Experimental results of the application ofa red laser (output power 1.6 mW, wavelength 0.63 µm), the exposure to daylight (intensity 2800 Lux), infrared (power 250 W, intensity 14100 Lux) and ultraviolet (wavelength 280-315 nm) radiations of the microalgalsamples are presented. The most significant concentrationsof protein compounds (46.0% and 48.4% of dry biomass) were obtained after the exposure to daylightand to infrared radiation. In the last case, the fatty acid composition of the sample was represented mainly by unsaturated acids (77% by weight). The biomass of C. sorokiniana cultivated under the influence of daylightshowed an increased content of chlorophylls a (19.3 mg/g), chlorophyll b (7.1 mg/g) and of total carotenoids (2.8 mg/g). Under the action of ultraviolet light, the quantity of saccharides increased (up to 430 mg/g).The data obtained enables to select optimal cultivation conditions of Chlorella sorokinianain order to obtain a biomass with a given composition and properties.
ADSORPTION DEFORMATION OF MICROPOROUS CARBON ADSORBENT FAS AT ADSORPTION OF WATER AND ACETONE VAPORS
Authors: Zaytsev Dmitriy S. , Tvardovskiy Andrey V. , Shkolin Andrey V. , Fomkin Anatoliy A.
Published: February 2019

For the first time, complex studies were carried out on adsorption deformation – sorbostriction of microporous carbon adsorbent FAS at adsorption of water and acetone vapors   from the flow of carrier gas – nitrogen in non-equilibrium conditions. The results of this phenomenon were analyzed. In work a microporous carbon adsorbent FAS, obtained on the basis of furfural was used. Active coals on the basis of thermosetting plastics grades of FAS are significantly better than commercially-produced carbon adsorbents based on coal and peat on their mechanical properties and low ash content at a much greater development of the volume of the adsorbent micropores. We used the facility for studies of adsorption deformation of a solid adsorbent, manufactured in the Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry of RAS. For the measurements we used a flow dilatometer, allowing measuring the adsorption deformation of the adsorbent while passing through it portions of the test substance or mixture in the carrier gas flow. It is shown that exit time curves of barbastelle to the maximum is individually for each of the studied substances, which enables you to use the effect of barbastelle to detect the presence of certain substances in the mixture. The results of the wave sorbostriction of microporous carbon adsorbent FAS at adsorption of water and acetone vapors   from the flow of carrier gas - nitrogen allow to conclude on the high selectivity of adsorption and the possibility of using the adsorbent as a sensor to control the content of these substances in a flow of nitrogen.
Surface and adhesion properties study of prophylactic lubricants border layers on metallic surface
Authors: Kondrasheva Natalia K. , Zyryanova Olga V. , Kireeva Elizaveta V.
Published: February 2019

This study is aimed at developing the special petroleum products, namely, preventive lubricants (PL) used in the field of solid minerals transportation. The surface and adhesion properties characteristics of the prophylactic compositions developed earlier on the basis of thermodestructive and thermocatalytic processes products of oil refining are investigated. It has been found that preventive lubricants contain a significant amount of surfactants, such as resins, asphaltenes and other polyaromatic hydrocarbon compounds. The main quantity of compounds with high surface activity is contained in high-boiling oil fractions, and during its processing it is concentrated in the oil residue - tar, which was used as a depressant thickening additive in mixtures of preventive lubricants. The dependence between the content of tar in the composition of lubricants and their adhesion ability, surface tension, wetting and lubricating properties is revealed. Surface properties of preventive lubricants were assessed by parameters such as surface tension and wetting contact angle. Studies have confirmed that the introduction of tar as a depressant additive improves the low-temperature characteristics of lubricants, as well as its small concentrations cause a decrease in the value of surface tension and the contact angle of wetting, which improves the surface and adhesion and wetting properties of the PL. To protect the metal surfaces of mining transport from direct contact with a wet finely dispersed transported material, it is recommended to use a composition of catalytic cracking process gasoil mixtures with a tar content of 2 to 5% under low temperature conditions.
The analysis of the temperature dependence of catalytic activity of carbon nanotubes at epoxy polymers curing within the frameworks of fractal analysis
Authors: Atlukhanova Luiza B. , Kozlov Georgii V. , Rumyantsev Evgenii V. , Dolbin Igor V.
Published: February 2019

The structural (fractal) model, describing the dependence of catalytic ability of carbon nanotubes in process of epoxy polymers curing, was proposed. Enhancement of epoxy polymers curing temperature leads to growth of constant of reaction rate for both initial epoxy polymers and systems epoxy polymer/carbon nanotubes, but for the last this effect is expressed much stronger. This means existence of catalytic effect of carbon nanotubes, which intensifies at temperature enhancement at their constant concentration. It has been found that constant of catalysis rate of second order is proportional to the difference of constants of curing reactions rate for system epoxy polymer/carbon nanotubes and initial epoxy polymer. This circumstance assumes that catalytic ability of carbon nanotubes in curing process is connected with their structure and specifically – with surface structure of this nanofiller aggregates. Reduction of this surface fractal dimension leads to increasing of catalytic ability of carbon nanotubes. The indicated ability is also a function of structure of reaction product – microgel, i.e. cross-linked macromolecular coil of epoxy polymer. Enhancement of microgel fractal dimension defines increasing of constant of catalysis rate. This means that efficiency of catalysis of epoxy polymers curing by carbon nanotubes is controlled by difference of fractal dimensions of microgels for the considered systems. The limiting temperature of curing exists, at which catalyzing action of carbon nanotubes ceases. Hence, two structural factors are defined catalytic ability of carbon nanotubes: by structure of catalyst (carbon nanotubes) surface and structure of forming in curing process microgel of epoxy polymer.
A SIMPLE MODEL TO ESTIMATE AND COMPARE EFFICIENCY OF FLUIDIZED BED REACTOR WITHOUT AND WITH CIRCULATION
Authors: Mizonov Vadim E. , Mitrofanov Andrey V. , Tannous Katia , Camelo Arnold
Published: February 2019

A simple model to estimate and compare efficiency of fluidized bed reactor without and with circulation is proposed. The model is based on the deterministic differential equations of a single particle motion in an upstream gas flow where the particle mass varies with time due to this or that physical or chemical process in the reactor. The particle mass variation is described by the equation similar to the equation of the first order chemical reaction kinetics. The constant of the reaction rate is proportional to the particle surface and the local velocity of gas flow around the particle. Numerical experiments with the model were done for the case when the particle volume remains constant but the particle density is decreasing. It corresponds, for example, to the process of particle drying without its shrinking. The rate of the process of particle treatment was estimated as the time, which is necessary to covert 95% of particle mass, which is capable to enter the reaction. It is shown that the rate of particle conversion grows with the gas flow velocity. However, at the same time, the particle residence time is getting smaller, and the degree of the reaction completion becomes less for direct-current reactor. It follows from that that in a direct-current reactor the bed close to the dense one is preferable. In a circulating fluidized bed reactor, the particle after reaching the top of it is directed to the bottom of the reactor and can participate in the process several times until it reaches the required degree of reaction completion. In this case much higher gas flow velocity is preferable because it intensifies gas-particle exchange, and the efficiency of the process can be considerably improved.
Study on the adsorption of fluoride ion onto Vietnamese red mud activated with sulfuric acid
Authors: Vu Xuan Minh , Nguyen Tan Dung , Nguyen Vu Giang , Bui Cong Trinh , Le Thi Mai Huong
Published: February 2019

The work is devoted to the study of adsorption of F- ions on red mud, which is a waste of Vietnam's alumina plant. The red mud was previously activated with a solution of H2SO4 (2M) with a solid / liquid ratio of 1: 2. Investigation of adsorption at pH = 6.8; room temperature and adsorption time of 120 minutes showed that the maximum adsorption capacity of F- ions reached 9.4 mg / g. The kinetic regularities of the process are described by a second-order equation, the isotherm of the adsorption of F- ions is characterized by the equations of Langmuir and Freundlich. The test of the activated red mud  on real samples of wastewater containing fluoride ions showed that the quality of the water after treatment satisfies the permissible standard of Vietnam for industrial wastewater.
OPTIMIZATION OF DRYING BY ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION: ANALYTICAL STUDY OF THE PROBLEM
Authors: Afanasiev A.M. , Siplivy B.N.
Published: February 2019

The process of drying a flat sample with electromagnetic radiation is considered. As initial relations, the equations of the theory of heat and mass transfer are used. Lykov. To take into account the nonlinear nature of the process of mass transfer of the sample surface with the air medium, the boundary conditions for the moisture fluxes were adopted in the form of Dalton's evaporation law. A time-asymptotic analytic solution of the initial-boundary value problem is constructed, the characteristic feature of which is the stationarity of the temperature field T, the quasistationary nature of the moisture content field U, and the constancy of the drying intensity J. The presence of such features allows us to say that here we have, by analogy with convective drying, or a period of constant speed. The central notion in the relations obtained is the steady-state temperature of the material surface T∞, which is a generalization of the concept of the temperature of a wet thermometer to the case of electromagnetic drying. The problem of drying optimization has been solved and solved. The aim of optimization is to organize regimes in which the temperature field and/and the moisture content field are close to homogeneous. This corresponds to the minimization of the objective functions, which are the absolute values of the temperature and moisture content differences between the plate boundaries ç∆Т½ and ç∆U½. As optimization parameters, by varying the target functions, the intensity of radiation S and its penetration depth Δ are chosen. It is shown that the optimum regime should be chosen in the soft range, in which the ΔT and ΔU differences have the same signs, and the hard range in which these differences have opposite signs should be excluded from consideration. One of the limits of the soft range corresponds to the regime with ΔT=0, the other boundary to the regime with ΔU=0. An algorithm for calculating the optimization parameters S and Δ, corresponding to these modes, is developed, which makes it possible to organize drying within a soft range. As an example of using the developed algorithm, optimization of electromagnetic drying of a material with characteristics of quartz sand has been carried out.
Eyes in Staurozoa (Cnidaria): a review
Authors: Miranda Lucília Souza , Collins Allen Gilbert
Published: February 2019

The presence of dark pigment spots associated with primary tentacles (or structures derived from them, i.e., rhopalioids) in Staurozoa was recently overlooked in a study on the evolution of cnidarian eyes (defined as a “region made of photoreceptor cells adjacent to pigment cells”, irrespective of image formation, i.e., including all photoreceptive organs). Review of old and recent literature on Staurozoa shows that dark pigment spots are present in virtually all species of Manania, as well as some species of Haliclystus, Stylocoronella, and probably Calvadosia. The known ultrastructure of ocelli seems to be compatible with light perception, but no immediate response to changes in light intensity have been observed in the behavior of staurozoans. Therefore, although further studies addressing photic behavior are required, we discuss an earlier hypothesis that the dark spots in some stauromedusae may be related to synchronous spawning, as well as the possible sensorial function of rhopalioids. Observations summarized here suggest a possible ninth independent origin of eyes in Cnidaria, within a lineage of benthic medusae. Alternatively, documented similarity across medusae of Cubozoa, Scyphozoa, and Staurozoa – with eyes being topologically associated with primary tentacles in each of these taxa – could indicate shared ancestry and a single origin of eyes in this clade known as Acraspeda. Information on Staurozoa, one of the least studied groups within Cnidaria, is often neglected in the literature, but correctly recognizing the characters of this class is crucial for understanding cnidarian evolution.
Letter from the Editor in Chief
Authors: Ambadar Zara
Published: February 2019

Letter from the Editor in Chief
Estivation-responsive microRNAs in a hypometabolic terrestrial snail
Authors: Hoyeck Myriam P. , Hadj-Moussa Hanane , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: February 2019

When faced with extreme environmental conditions, the milk snail (Otala lactea) enters a state of dormancy known as estivation. This is characterized by a strong reduction in metabolic rate to <30% of normal resting rate that is facilitated by various behavioural, physiological, and molecular mechanisms. Herein, we investigated the regulation of microRNA in the induction of estivation. Changes in the expression levels of 75 highly conserved microRNAs were analysed in snail foot muscle, of which 26 were significantly upregulated during estivation compared with controls. These estivation-responsive microRNAs were linked to cell functions that are crucial for long-term survival in a hypometabolic state including anti-apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest, and maintenance of muscle functionality. Several of the microRNA responses by snail foot muscle also characterize hypometabolism in other species and support the existence of a conserved suite of miRNA responses that regulate environmental stress responsive metabolic rate depression across phylogeny.
Coffee Production Challenges and Opportunities in Tanzania: The Case Study of Coffee Farmers in Iwindi, Msia and Lwati Villages in Mbeya Region
Authors: Otieno Hillary M. O. , Alwenge Beryle A. , Okumu Oliver Otieno
Published: February 2019

Coffee is one of the most popular cash crops grown in Tanzania. However, its productivity has remained low due to various biotic, abiotic and socio-economic factors prevailing in Mbeya Region. These production challenges have never been properly and intensively documented for better decision making. Therefore, this study was set to assess and provide a better understanding of the current production situation and available technologies and practices for enhancing coffee production in the region.

The research was carried out in Iwindi, Msia and Lwati villages located in Mbeya Region. Two sources of data were used; (a) primary data collected through focus group discussion; and (b) secondary data collected through a systematic and intensive process that involved searching and collecting relevant publications.

From the research, farmers were found to grow very old trees that were more than 20 years. The soils were found to have low levels of nutrients and organic matter. Soils are also acidic, a pH below 5.5. High prevalence of pests such as coffee berry and stem borers and diseases like coffee leaf rust, Fusarium spp., bacterial blight, and red blister were reported in the region. Poor agronomic practices involving intensive intercropping of coffee with trees, other food crops like banana, beans and using generally low tree densities per hectare was observed. Poor extension services due to unbalanced extension agent to farmer ratio (about 1:1800) were found to be one of the causes for poor adoption of best coffee agronomy. Lack of market information and low coffee prices were found to demoralize farmers as it leads to a low return on investment. When asked about their ‘priority training and input support requirements’, all farmers mentioned best coffee agronomy and fertilizer use training. They also mentioned fertilizers (especially Urea or Yara Mila Java blend products) and pesticides (for berry borer, stem borer, Coffee berry disease, and coffee leaf rust) inputs as key for better yields. All these inputs and training require money and service provider. Bundling of training and inputs together could make it easier for any service provider to help farmers increase their yields.
The Epidemiology of Dengue Fever with Special Reference to Malaysia- Emphasizing Prevention and Control
Authors: Ahmad A. M. Meer , Koay C. A.
Published: February 2019

Introduction: Dengue is the most prevalent viral mosquito-borne disease, with over 2.5 billion humans at risk given its endemicity in not less than 100 countries.

Globally, 50-100 million cases of dengue is seen annually, with approximately 0.7% resulting in Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), and 22,000 deaths.

In 2017, there were 83,849 reported cases of dengue fever in endemic under-reported Malaysia, with 177 deaths.

Method: The Authors here narrate from their own personal-experiences, besides reviewing existing-literature.

Results and Conclusion: Prevention and Control methods have been desiring of greater achievements, but also show greater promise with Newer Insecticides, Innovative Methods and Vaccines. Dengue Fever would very likely become near-eradicated just like all other vaccine-preventable diseases, once comprehensive mass-vaccination programs are available globally, using safe and very-effective tetravalent-vaccines soon to be available.
Multi-Drug Resistant and Plasmid-Mediated Quinolone-Resistant Salmonella enterica isolated from Shellfish in Iko Creek, Nigeria
Authors: S. Udoekong, Nsikan , D. Akan, Otobong , I. James, Iniobong , E. Agbo, Bassey , Anthony Umoh,
Published: February 2019

Aim: This study investigated the occurrence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) and Plasmid-Mediated Quinolone Resistant (PMQR) genes in Salmonella enterica isolated from shellfish in Iko Creek, Nigeria.

Study Design: This is an experimental research that studied Salmonella enterica isolated from shellfish to determine its association with MDR and PMQR using standard microbiological and molecular methods.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried within Iko Creek, South-South Nigeria for a period of one year (March-July and August to February 2017).

Methodology: A total of 160 shellfish samples (80 clams and 80 oysters) were analyzed for the presence of Salmonella enterica using standard bacteriological methods. In all, 22(52.4%) were positive for clams while 20(47.6%) for oysters. The bacterium was identified using phenotypic methods. The antibiotics used for the antibiotic susceptibility profiles were amoxicillin, quinolones, aminoglycosides, macrolide and sulfonamide. Confirmation of the isolates was done by DNA sequencing of 16S rRNA gene; results obtained were then compared with that in the gene bank. The isolate was identified as Salmonella enterica.

Results: The mean heterotrophic bacterial counts (THBC) in clams ranged from 5.25 x 106 to 3.71 x 107 (Cfu/g) in the dry season and 3.05 x 106 to 2.33 x106 (Cfu/g) in the rainy season. The mean THB counts in oyster was 3.27 x 108 to 1.59 x 108(Cfu/g) in the dry season and 2.54 x 107 to 4.39 x 106 (Cfu/g) in the rainy season. Salmonella enterica showed resistance to all the antibiotics tested except gentamicin. Seventy-one (71) percent of the isolates in this study expressed the qnrB genes.

Conclusion: The presence of qnr B genes and multi-drug resistance (MDR) in the isolate’s gene according to this study is an indicator of treatment failure with antibiotics.
Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological Quality of Drinking Water Sources in Calabar Municipality, Nigeria
Authors: Agbo B. E. , Ogar A. V. , Akpan U. L. , Mboto C. I.
Published: February 2019

This study evaluated the physico-chemical and the bacteriological quality of five different sources of drinking water in Calabar metropolis, Nigeria, to give a fair geographical representative of the town and to contribute to our understanding of the quality of drinking water in the metropolis. The physico-chemical characteristics such as pH, temperature, turbidity, conductivity, colour, Iron, dissolved oxygen, Calcium, Magnesium, alkalinity, total hardness, Manganese, Sulphate, Chloride, Phosphate, Sodium, Zinc, Copper, total dissolved solid, Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonia, Ammonium and Potassium were determined following the procedures prescribed by American Public Health Association Standard Method. The bacteriological analysis was carried out using the standard microbiological standard for analysis of water for total and faecal coliform count. The mean temperature of the evaluated waters ranged from 23.03°C-29.3°C, mean pH ranged from 4.37-6.76, while turbidity had a mean range of 0.16 NTU-4.13 NTU. Conductivity ranged between 39.29 µs/cm - 120.7 µs/cm, dissolved oxygen with 13.30 mg/L - 4.19 mg/L, total dissolved solids ranged from 72.4 mg/L -23.5 mg/L, while the mean for iron concentration ranged from 0.12 mg/L - 0.99 mg/L. Similarly, the mean for total hardness was 34.2 mg/L - 17.1 mg/L and 7.93 mg/L - 6.71 mg/L for total alkalinity. Others includes Manganese (0.88 mg/L - 0.02 mg/L), Magnesium (16.5 mg/L - 9.9 mg/L), Calcium (9.77 mg/L - 7.20 mg/L, Nitrate (14.6 mg/L - 3.66 mg/L), Nitrite (0.076 mg/L -0.009 mg/L), Ammonia (0.89 mg/L - 0.25 mg/L), Ammonium (0.52 mg/L - 0.013 mg/L), Zinc (1.01 mg/L - 0.34 mg/L), Chloride (5.73 mg/L - 0.364 mg/L), Fluoride (0.76 mg/L - 0.277 mg/L), Copper (0.61 mg/L - 0.18 mg/L), Sodium (2.73 mg/L - 0.180 mg/L), potassium (5.73 mg/L - 2.0 mg/L), Sulphate (14.8 mg/L - 3.69 mg/L and Phosphate with 4.8 mg/L - 3.69 mg/L. The total coliform count for bottled water ranged between 2.00 cfu/100 mL – 19.00 cfu/100 mL, the total coliform range for sachet water were 6.00 cfu/100 mL and 15.00 cfu/100 mL and no faecal coliform was detected. Public water had no growth at all, the stream and borehole bacteriological analysis ranged from 27x101 cfu/ mL - 55x101 cfu/mL and 12 cfu/100 mL - 33 cfu/100 mL for total coliform respectively. Faecal coliform ranged from 15x101 cfu/ mL - 52x101 cfu/ mL for stream and 9.00 cfu100/ mL – 16.00 cfu/100 mL for borehole. A total of seven (7) different bacteria species were isolated from the sampled drinking water sources. These included Proteus spp., Streptococcus spp., Enterobacter spp., Pseudomonas spp., E.coli, Chromobacter spp., Salmonella spp. and Enterococcus spp. This study reveals a high level of poor quality sources of water in the metropolis and makes need for urgent health intervention.
REDUCTION OF THE WAVE OVERTOPPING DISCHARGE AT DIKES IN PRESENCE OF CROWN WALLS WITH BULLNOSES
Authors: Zanuttigh Barbara , Formentin Sara Mizar
Published: February 2019

New numerical and laboratory investigations on wave overtopping at dikes with crown walls were carried out. The main objective of the experiments, presented for the first time in this contribution, is to investigate the effects of the inclusion of bullnoses on the top of crown walls to reduce the average overtopping discharge q. The study extends the experience available on structures with bullnoses, which is so far limited to dikes with promenades under non-breaking wave conditions. The new data on q resulting from the campaign of experiments are compared with the existing predicting formulae for q of the EurOtop manual (2016), in order to verify and upgrade their range of validity. A formulation for a new correction coefficient Î³** to be included in the formulae is proposed to account for the effects of the bullnose also in case of structures subjected to breaking waves. A simple solution to represent the geometry of the bullnoses in the EurOtop Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is investigated. The solution, which avoids the ANN re-training and does not require the inclusion of new input parameters, applied to new and existing data gives promising results.
Transverse Spin and Transverse Momentum in Structured Optical Fields
Authors: Saha Sudipta , Ghosh Nirmalya , Dutta Gupta Subhasish
Published: February 2019

It has been recently recognized that in addition to the conventional longitudinal angular momentum, structured (inhomogeneous) optical fields exhibit helicity‐independent transverse spin angular momentum (SAM) and an unusual spin (circular polarization)‐dependent transverse momentum, the so‐called Belinfante's spin momentum. Such highly nontrivial structure of the momentum and the spin densities in the structured optical fields (e.g. evanescent fields) has led to a number of fundamentally interesting and intricate phenomena, e.g. the quantum spin Hall effect of light and the optical spin‐momentum locking in surface optical modes similar to that observed for electrons in topological insulators. In this article, we introduce the basic concepts and look into the genesis of transverse SAM and transverse spin–momentum in structured light. We then discuss few illustrative examples of micro‐ and nano‐optical systems where these illusive entities can be observed. The studied systems include planar and spherical micro‐ and nanostructures. We also investigate the ways and means of enhancing the elusive extraordinary spin. In particular, we show that dispersion management leading to avoided crossing along with perfect absorption mediated by recently discovered coherent perfect absorption can positively influence the resonant enhancement of the transverse spin and spin momentum. The role of mode mixing and interference of neighboring transverse electric and transverse magnetic scattering modes of diverse micro‐ and nano‐optical systems are illustrated with the selected examples. The results demonstrate possibilities for the enhancement of not only the magnitudes but also the spatial extent of transverse SAM and the transverse momentum components, which opens up interesting avenues for experimental detection of these illusive fundamental entities and may enhance the ensuing spin‐based photonic applications.
Single‐Photon Sources
Authors: Inam Faraz A.
Published: February 2019

Photons' “light quantas” are considered as the central tool of the “second quantum revolution.” The “second quantum revolution” refers to the application of the discovered quantum mechanical laws toward the development of quantum information technologies that are aimed to completely outperform their classical counterparts. For practical applications, these emerging quantum technologies including all‐optical quantum information processing, communications, and metrology largely rely on the development of a novel optical tool – a bright, controllable, on‐demand source of single photons. Such a device is termed as a single‐photon source (SPS). In this article, we describe in detail the concept of a SPS and explore the various potential candidates in this regard.
Crop Biotechnology for Improving Drought Tolerance: Targets, Approaches, and Outcomes
Authors: Chater Caspar C.C. , Covarrubias Alejandra A. , Acosta‐Maspons Alexis
Published: February 2019

Human population growth and climate change threaten our food and water security. The increasing frequency of extreme drought events will cause major crop yield losses. To mitigate this threat to global food security, we need to rapidly select and/or develop new ‘climate‐ready’ crop varieties that can withstand and flourish under water deficit, enabling the sustained and sustainable production of higher yields to support human life on Earth. In this article, we identify the current targets for crop plant improvement under drought, working from the ground up, with modifications in rooting, shoot, stomatal, and photosynthetic systems, and finally nutrient transport and sink strength. We argue that by using a holistic approach to crop development, prudently incorporating the natural variation available in crop wild relatives and cultivars with cutting‐edge tools, such as molecular breeding and transgenics, we may be able to produce high‐yielding crops under a range of conditions to meet our needs in a changing world.
Opportunities for Developing Salt‐tolerant Wheat and Barley Varieties
Authors: Asif Muhammad A. , Pearson Allison S. , Schilling Rhiannon K. , Roy Stuart J.
Published: February 2019

Salinity is a major constraint limiting crop yields around the world. While considerable research to understand and enhance the salinity tolerance of plants has occurred, few commercially available salt‐tolerant bread wheat (
Triticum aestivum
), durum wheat (
Triticum durum
), or barley (
Hordeum vulgare
) varieties have been developed for farmers. This lack of salt‐tolerant varieties is despite all publications highlighting issues around global food security, the need to increase crop production to feed an increasing human population, the effects of more variable climate and farmland being degraded by abiotic stresses. We explore the progress to date in using forward and reverse genetic approaches to identify loci and candidate genes linked to plant salinity‐tolerance sub‐traits, and why, despite substantial research in understanding salt tolerance mechanisms, very few genes or loci have been introduced into commercially available varieties. We propose the need for a greater focus on validating glasshouse‐based findings of salt tolerance in saline fields, the fine mapping of quantitative trait loci linked to salt‐tolerance sub‐traits to underlying genes, and the use of marker‐assisted selection and speed breeding to pyramid beneficial salinity‐tolerance sub‐traits to develop high‐yielding bread wheat, durum wheat, and barley varieties.