bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Metabolites and Antiradical Activity of Liquid Fermentation of Morchella sp. Isolated from Southwest China
Authors: Yang Cailing , Zhou Xuan , Meng Qingfeng , Wang Mengjiao , Zhang Yao , Fu Shaobin
Published: May 2019

Morels famous for their taste and nutrition are in short supply all over the world although they were considered as one of the most highly prized edible and medicinal mushrooms. Because of the limitation of resource and cultivation technology, fermentation of edible mushroom was gradually applied to nutrient, bioactivity and breeder seed preparation. At present, there are more reports on sugar and amino acid but less on other components. Morchella sp. YDJ-ZY-1 was isolated from the wild fruiting body by the spores releasing method in Zunyi Guizhou province in Southwest China and identified based on phenotype and genotype characteristics. Chemical compositions of YDJ-ZY-1 were investigated from liquid fermentation that will lay the foundation for further development and utilization. Four pyranoids (1–4) and 2-(1-oxo-2-hydroxyethyl) furan (5), linoleic acid (6), Morelin (2-hydroxy-cinnamic acid methyl ester, (7) and 1-O-β-d-ribofuranose-Morelin (8) were obtained from EtOAc extraction and elucidated by spectral data. Product 4 and 8 were new compounds and 7 was isolated from nature for the first time. Antiradical activity was evaluated by free radical scavenging effect on DPPH (1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical 2,2-Diphenyl-1-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)hydrazyl). Compound 5 exhibited strong antiradical activity while compounds 1 and 2 exhibited moderate activity. Thus, incubation of Morchella sp YDJ-ZY-1 separated from the wild fruit body afforded eight compounds. Secondary metabolites with new structures were mined from fermentation of Morchella sp. and antiradical activity was evaluated.
Yttrium Residues in MWCNT Enable Assessment of MWCNT Removal during Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Kidd Justin , Bi Yuqiang , Hanigan David , Herckes Pierre , Westerhoff Paul
Published: May 2019

Many analytical techniques have limited sensitivity to quantify multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) at environmentally relevant exposure concentrations in wastewaters. We found that trace metals (e.g., Y, Co, Fe) used in MWCNT synthesis correlated with MWCNT concentrations. Because of low background yttrium (Y) concentrations in wastewater, Y was used to track MWCNT removal by wastewater biomass. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and dissolution studies indicated that the residual trace metals were strongly embedded within the MWCNTs. For our specific MWCNT, Y concentration in MWCNTs was 76 µg g−1, and single particle mode inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (spICP-MS) was shown viable to detect Y-associated MWCNTs. The detection limit of the specific MWCNTs was 0.82 µg L−1 using Y as a surrogate, compared with >100 µg L−1 for other techniques applied for MWCNT quantification in wastewater biomass. MWCNT removal at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) was assessed by dosing MWCNTs (100 µg L−1) in water containing a range of biomass concentrations obtained from wastewater return activated sludge (RAS) collected from a local WWTP. Using high volume to surface area reactors (to limit artifacts of MWCNT loss due to adsorption to vessel walls) and adding 5 g L−1 of total suspended solids (TSS) of RAS (3-h mixing) reduced the MWCNT concentrations from 100 µg L−1 to 2 µg L−1. The results provide an environmentally relevant insight into the fate of MWCNTs across their end of life cycle and aid in regulatory permits that require estimates of engineered nanomaterial removal at WWTPs upon accidental release into sewers from manufacturing facilities.
Enhancement of the Conductivity and Uniformity of Silver Nanowire Flexible Transparent Conductive Films by Femtosecond Laser-Induced Nanowelding
Authors: Hu Youwang , Liang Chang , Sun Xiaoyan , Zheng Jianfen , Duan Ji’an , Zhuang Xuye
Published: May 2019

In order to improve the performance of silver nanowire (AgNW) flexible transparent conductive films (FTCFs), including the conductivity, uniformity, and reliability, the welding of high repetition rate femtosecond (fs) laser is applied in this work. Fs laser irradiation can produce local enhancement of electric field, which induce melting at the gap of the AgNWs and enhance electrical conductivity of nanowire networks. The overall resistivity of the laser-welded AgNW FTCFs reduced significantly and the transparency changed slightly. Meanwhile, PET substrates were not damaged during the laser welding procedure in particular parameters. The AgNW FTCFs can achieve a nonuniformity factor of the sheet resistance as 4.6% at an average sheet resistance of 16.1 Ω/sq and transmittance of 91%. The laser-welded AgNW FTCFs also exhibited excellent reliability against mechanical bending over 10,000 cycles. The welding process may open up a new approach for improvement of FTCFs photoelectric property and can be applied in the fabrication of silver nanostructures for flexible optoelectronic and integration of functional devices.
Robust Synthesis of Size-Dispersal Triangular Silver Nanoprisms via Chemical Reduction Route and Their Cytotoxicity
Authors: Bahlol Hagar S. , Foda Mohamed F. , Ma Jing , Han Heyou
Published: May 2019

Triangular silver nanocrystals, well-known as nanoprisms (Ag-NPrs), were successfully developed via a robust and straightforward direct chemical reduction synthetic approach, producing desirable tiny and well-controlled Ag-NPrs. This procedure was accomplished by fabricating a mixture of di-sodium succinate hexa-hydrate (DSSH) and tri-sodium citrate di-hydrate (TSCD) as capping agents at optimal synthetic conditions and under an open-air condition, which proved to be an enormous challenge. Additionally, the Ag-NPrs were fully characterized by UV-vis spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Likewise, the formation stages from spherical silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) to triangular Ag-NPrs were also captured simultaneously via transmission electron microscope (TEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM) images. More interestingly, an active thin silica-shell was efficiently applied on the Ag-NPrs outer-layer to increase their functionality. Furthermore, to confirm their biocompatibility, we also carried out cell viability assays for the Ag-NPs, Ag-NPrs, and Ag-NPrs@SiO2 with different concentrations at 62.5, 125, and 250 µg/mL after 12, 24, and 48 h of exposure time, respectively, on a regular African green monkey kidney cell line. The cell viability test results exemplified that the three silver nanostructures were toxic-free and suitable for further potential biological applications in the near future.
Ge-Sb-Te Chalcogenide Thin Films Deposited by Nanosecond, Picosecond, and Femtosecond Laser Ablation
Authors: Bulai Georgiana , Pompilian Oana , Gurlui Silviu , Nemec Petr , Nazabal Virginie , Cimpoesu Nicanor , Chazallon Bertrand , Focsa Cristian
Published: May 2019

Ge-Sb-Te thin films were obtained by ns-, ps-, and fs-pulsed laser deposition (PLD) in various experimental conditions. The thickness of the samples was influenced by the Nd-YAG laser wavelength, fluence, target-to-substrate distance, and deposition time. The topography and chemical analysis results showed that the films deposited by ns-PLD revealed droplets on the surface together with a decreased Te concentration and Sb over-stoichiometry. Thin films with improved surface roughness and chemical compositions close to nominal values were deposited by ps- and fs-PLD. The X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy results showed that the samples obtained with ns pulses were partially crystallized while the lower fluences used in ps- and fs-PLD led to amorphous depositions. The optical parameters of the ns-PLD samples were correlated to their structural properties.
Properties and Mechanism of Hydroxyapatite Coating Prepared by Electrodeposition on a Braid for Biodegradable Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Li Ting-Ting , Ling Lei , Lin Mei-Chen , Jiang Qian , Lin Qi , Lin Jia-Horng , Lou Ching-Wen
Published: May 2019

Hydroxyapatite (HA) coating is successfully prepared by electrodeposition on the surface of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polylactic acid (PLA) braid which serves as a potential biodegradable bone scaffold. The surface morphology, element composition, crystallinity and chemical bonds of HA coatings at various deposition times (60, 75, 90, 105 and 120 min) are characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. Average Surface roughness (Ra) of HA coating is observed by confocal microscopy. The results reveal that the typical characteristic peaks of the FTIR spectrum confirm that HA coating is successfully prepared on the rugged surface of the PVA/PLA braid. The XRD results indicate that the crystallinity of HA can be improved by increasing deposition time. In the 90 min-deposition, hydroxyapatite has a dense and uniform coating morphology, Ca/P ratio of 1.7, roughness of 0.725 μm, which shows the best electrodeposition performance. The formation mechanism of granular and plate-like hydroxyapatite crystals is explained by the structural characteristics of a hydroxyapatite unit cell. This study provides a foundation for a bone scaffold braided by biodegradable fibers.
Snow-Ice-Inspired Approach for Growth of Amorphous Silicon Nanotips
Authors: Jo Seungil , Kim Hyunsoo , Park Nae-Man
Published: May 2019

The growth of one-dimensional nanostructures without a metal catalyst via a simple solution method is of considerable interest due to its practical applications. In this study, the growth of amorphous silicon (a-Si) nanotips was investigated using an aqueous solution dropped onto the Si substrate, followed by drying at room temperature or below for 24 h, resulting in the formation of a-Si nanotips on the Si substrate. Typically, the a-Si nanotips were up to 1.6 μm long, with average top and middle diameters of 30 and 80 nm, respectively, and contained no metal catalyst in their structure. The growth of a-Si nanotips can be explained in terms of the liquid–solid mechanism, where the supercritical Si solution (liquid) generated on the Si substrate (after reaction with the aqueous solution) promotes the nucleation of solid Si (acting as seeds) on the roughened surface, followed by surface diffusion of Si atoms along the side wall of the Si seeds. This is very similar to the phenomenon observed in the growth of snow ice crystals in nature. When photoexcited at 265 nm, the a-Si nanotips showed blue luminescence at around 435 nm (2.85 eV), indicating feasible applicability of the nanotips in optoelectronic functional devices.
Synthesis and Properties of Poly(imides) and Poly(imides)/Ionic Liquid Composites Bearing a Benzimidazole Moiety
Authors: Terraza Claudio A. , Ortiz Pablo , Tagle Luis H. , Pérez Germán , Saldias César , Rodríguez-González Fidel E. , Cabrera-Barjas Gustavo , Catalán Henry , Tundidor-Camba Alain , Coll Deysma
Published: May 2019

Three new aromatic poly(imides) containing benzimidazole units in the backbone were synthesized and characterized by several spectroscopic techniques. Flexible spacer groups were incorporated into the poly(imides) structure to improve their solubility in organic solvents and their oxidative stabilization. All poly(imides) were thermally stable (Td5% > 512 °C) and had the ability to form dense flexible films. Novel composite films were successfully prepared by loading poly(imide) with ionic liquid ([Bmim]Br) at different concentrations up to 25 wt.%. The resulting materials were characterized according to their morphology and elemental composition (SEM-EDX), water uptake capability, contact angle, and oxidative degradation resistance. Results suggested that poly(imide)/ionic liquid composites would be excellent candidates for future proton conductivity measurements.
Design and Fabrication of Strong Parts from Poly (Lactic Acid) with a Desktop 3D Printer: A Case with Interrupted Shell
Authors: Kuznetsov Vladimir E. , Tavitov Azamat G. , Urzhumtsev Oleg D. , Mikhalin Mikhail V. , Solonin Alexey N.
Published: May 2019

The ability to form closed cavities inside the part printed is an important feature of Fused Filament Fabrication technology. A typical part consists of a dense shell bearing the primary load, filled with low-density plastic scaffold (infill). Such a constitution of the part provides in most cases appropriate strength and low weight. However, if the printed part shape includes horizontal (orthogonal to printer’s Z axis) flat surfaces other than its top and bottom surface, then the shell of the part becomes interrupted, which may lead to drastic drop in the ability of the part to withstand loads. In the current study, a representative sample of a part with interrupted shell and testing apparatus is developed. Influence of shell and base thicknesses, as well as influence of the infill density on the part strength, are studied. Different approaches to the sample shape modification were applied and tested. The part shape optimization made with respect to peculiarities of Fused Filament Fabrication technology resulted in increment of the force, required to fracture the part from 483 to 1096 N and in decreased part mass from 36.9 to 30.2 g.
Role of the Oxethyl Unit in the Structure of Vegetable Oil-Based Plasticizer for PVC: An Efficient Strategy to Enhance Compatibility and Plasticization
Authors: Tan Jihuai , Liu Bowen , Fu Qinghe , Wang Liwei , Xin Junna , Zhu Xinbao
Published: May 2019

Developing vegetable oil-derived primary plasticizers for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) is still a challenge because of their insufficient compatibility. As described in this work, we report the synthesis of plasticizers through the esterification of polyethylene glycol methyl ether and dimer acid, in which dimer acid is renewable material prepared via a two-step reaction (1) the hydrolysis of fatty acids from soybean oil at 70 °C and (2) subsequent Diels–Alder reaction at 250 °C. The resulting plasticizers, dimer acid-derived polyethylene glycol methyl ether esters (DA-2n, 2n = 2, 4, 6 or 8 referring to the number of oxethyl units per molecule), were blended with PVC. It was found that the tensile properties, transparency, and thermal stability of plasticized PVC (PVC-DA-2n) increased significantly with an increase in the number of oxyethyl units. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed that its good compatibility can be attributed to the strong interaction between oxyethyl units and PVC. As the number of the oxyethyl units of plasticizer increased, the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the corresponding plasticized PVC samples decreased from 62.3 (PVC-DA-2) to 35.4 °C (PVC-DA-8). Owing to the excellent plasticization of DA-8, the performances of PVC-DA-8 were comparable or better than that of the PVC plasticized using commercial dioctyl terephthalate (DOTP). The simple but efficient method of this study provides a new avenue for the preparation of vegetable oil-based plasticizers for PVC.
Synthesis of Negatively Charged Polyol-Functional PSF Membranes with Good Hydrophilic and Efficient Boron Removal Properties
Authors: Jin Jinbo , Du Xilan , Yu Jie , Qin Shuhao , He Min , Zhang Kaizhou , Yang Jingkui
Published: May 2019

Boron removal remains a major barrier to water purification, it is important to develop a specialized adsorption membrane for boron removal. By means of a simple and effective method, a hydrophilic membrane for boron removal with a polyhydroxy functional group on the surface was prepared. Firstly, a polysulfone (PSF) membrane was modified by co-depositing polyethyleneimine (PEI) with dopamine (DA) in one-step to produce amine-rich surfaces, then the DA/PEI-functionalized membranes were reacted with glycidol, with the prepared membranes corresponding to PSF-PDA/PEI membranes and PSF-diol membranes. The prepared membranes were characterized by water-uptake, FTIR, (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy) XPS, (Field emission scanning electron microscope) FESEM, and zeta potential measurements. The hydrophilicity of the membrane was characterized by the static water contact angle (WCA) test. In addition, we systematically studied the impact of initial boron concentration, chelating time, and pH value on boron removal performance. The results showed that the PSF-diol membrane had strong hydrophilicity with a WCA of about 38°. The maximum adsorption capacity of boron appeared to be 1.61 mmol/g within 10 min at a boron concentration of 300 mg/L. Adsorption kinetics showed that saturation adsorption can be achieved in minutes at the initial concentration of 5 mg/L, which is beneficial to a rapid filtration process.
Estimation of Aspect Ratio of Cellulose Nanocrystals by Viscosity Measurement: Influence of Aspect Ratio Distribution and Ionic Strength
Authors: Wu Qiang , Li Xiuwen , Li Qian , Wang Siqun , Luo Yan
Published: May 2019

The influence of the cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) aspect ratio (L/d) distribution and ionic strength of different salts on the L/d estimation by viscosity measurement were investigated. The L/d distribution was controlled by mixing two CNC, with different L/d, which were prepared by acid hydrolysis from wood and bacterial cellulose. The results demonstrated that the L/d distribution did not affect the accuracy of the CNC L/d estimated by viscosity measurements using the Batchelor equation, and the calculated L/d was the number-average L/d. Moreover, monovalent (NaCl), divalent (CaCl2), and trivalent (AlCl3) salts were chosen to study the influence of ionic strength on the CNC L/d estimation by viscosity measurement. It was found that NaCl and CaCl2 could be added to the CNC suspension to screen the electro-viscous effect and estimate the actual physical CNC L/d by viscosity measurement, and the content of NaCl and CaCl2 can be predicted by the Debye–Hückel theory. However, a small amount of AlCl3 induced CNC aggregation and increased intrinsic viscosity and predicted L/d.
Analysis of the Excess Hydrocarbon Gases Output from Refinery Plants
Authors: Szpalerski Jerzy , Smoliński Adam
Published: May 2019

The article presents the ideas of maximizing recovery of flare gases in the industrial plants processing hydrocarbons. The functioning of a flare stack and depressurization systems in a typical refinery plant is described, and the architecture of the depressurization systems and construction of the flares are shown in a simplified way. The proposal to recover the flare gases together with their output outside the industrial plant, in order to minimize impact on the environment (reduction of emissions) and to limit consumption of fossil fuels is presented. Contaminants that may be found in the depressurization systems are indicated. The idea presented in the article assumes the injection of an excess stream of gases into an existing natural gas pipelines system. A method of monitoring is proposed, aiming to eliminate introduction of undesirable harmful components into the systems.
Nitroxide-Mediated Copolymerization of Itaconate Esters with Styrene
Authors: Kardan Sepehr , Garcia Valdez Omar , Métafiot Adrien , Maric Milan
Published: May 2019

Replacing petro-based materials with renewably sourced ones has clearly been applied to polymers, such as those derived from itaconic acid (IA) and its derivatives. Di-n-butyl itaconate (DBI) was (co)polymerized via nitroxide mediated polymerization (NMP) to impart elastomeric (rubber) properties. Homopolymerization of DBI by NMP was not possible, due to a stable adduct being formed. However, DBI/styrene (S) copolymerization by NMP at various initial molar feed compositions fDBI,0 was polymerizable at different reaction temperatures (70–110 °C) in 1,4 dioxane solution. DBI/S copolymerizations largely obeyed first order kinetics for initial DBI compositions of 10% to 80%. Number-average molecular weight (Mn) versus conversion for various DBI/S copolymerizations however showed significant deviations from the theoretical Mn as a result of chain transfer reactions (that are more likely to occur at high temperatures) and/or the poor reactivity of DBI via an NMP mechanism. In order to suppress possible intramolecular chain transfer reactions, the copolymerization was performed at 70 °C and for a longer time (72 h) with fDBI,0 = 50%–80%, and some slight improvements regarding the dispersity (Ð = 1.3–1.5), chain activity and conversion (~50%) were observed for the less DBI-rich compositions. The statistical copolymers produced showed a depression in Tg relative to poly(styrene) homopolymer, indicating the effect of DBI incorporation.
Clean Energy Sources: Insights from Russia
Authors: Gavrikova Elizaveta , Burda Yegor , Gavrikov Vladimir , Sharafutdinov Ruslan , Volkova Irina , Rubleva Marina , Polosukhina Daria
Published: May 2019

The paper is devoted to the assessment of the prospects of implementing clean energy sources in Russia, where the current energy policy goal is to increase the role of renewable and clean energy sources. The research is based on data from the Krasnoyarsk Region as one of the largest territories but also as a representative model of Russia. The aim of the study is to identify where and which renewable energy source (solar, wind, hydro and nuclear) has the highest potential. The novelty of our research lies in its holistic nature: authors consider both geographical and technical potential for renewable energy sources development as well as prospective demand for such resources, while previous research is mostly focused on specific aspects of renewable energy development. We also consider the level of air pollution as an important factor for the development of renewable energy sources. The results of the study show that there is a strong potential for clean energy sources in the Krasnoyarsk Region. The resulting matrix identifies the potential of energy sources across all the municipal entities and also indicates whether the source of energy is primary or supplemental and where several sources may be implemented in cooperation.
Practice Oriented and Monte Carlo Based Estimation of the Value-at-Risk for Operational Risk Measurement
Authors: Greselin Francesca , Piacenza Fabio , Zitikis Ričardas
Published: May 2019

We explore the Monte Carlo steps required to reduce the sampling error of the estimated 99.9% quantile within an acceptable threshold. Our research is of primary interest to practitioners working in the area of operational risk measurement, where the annual loss distribution cannot be analytically determined in advance. Usually, the frequency and the severity distributions should be adequately combined and elaborated with Monte Carlo methods, in order to estimate the loss distributions and risk measures. Naturally, financial analysts and regulators are interested in mitigating sampling errors, as prescribed in EU Regulation 2018/959. In particular, the sampling error of the 99.9% quantile is of paramount importance, along the lines of EU Regulation 575/2013. The Monte Carlo error for the operational risk measure is here assessed on the basis of the binomial distribution. Our approach is then applied to realistic simulated data, yielding a comparable precision of the estimate with a much lower computational effort, when compared to bootstrap, Monte Carlo repetition, and two other methods based on numerical optimization.
Decoupling between Precipitation Processes and Mountain Wave Induced Circulations Observed with a Vertically Pointing K-Band Doppler Radar
Authors: Gonzalez Sergi , Bech Joan , Udina Mireia , Codina Bernat , Paci Alexandre , Trapero Laura
Published: May 2019

Recent studies reported that precipitation and mountain waves induced low tropospheric level circulations may be decoupled or masked by greater spatial scale variability despite generally there is a connection between microphysical processes of precipitation and mountain driven air flows. In this paper we analyse two periods of a winter storm in the Eastern Pyrenees mountain range (NE Spain) with different mountain wave induced circulations and low-level turbulence as revealed by Micro Rain Radar (MRR), microwave radiometer and Parsivel disdrometer data during the Cerdanya-2017 field campaign. We find that during the event studied mountain wave wind circulations and low-level turbulence do not affect neither the snow crystal riming or aggregation along the vertical column nor the surface particle size distribution of the snow. This study illustrates that precipitation profiles and mountain induced circulations may be decoupled which can be very relevant for either ground-based or spaceborne remote sensing of precipitation.
Clustering Tools for Integration of Satellite Remote Sensing Imagery and Proximal Soil Sensing Data
Authors: Saifuzzaman Md , Adamchuk Viacheslav , Buelvas Roberto , Biswas Asim , Prasher Shiv , Rabe Nicole , Aspinall Doug , Ji Wenjun
Published: May 2019

Remote sensing (RS) and proximal soil sensing (PSS) technologies offer an advanced array of methods for obtaining soil property information and determining soil variability for precision agriculture. A large amount of data collected by these sensors may provide essential information for precision or site-specific management in a production field. Data clustering techniques are crucial for data mining, and high-density data analysis is important for field management. A new clustering technique was introduced and compared with existing clustering tools to determine the relatively homogeneous parts of agricultural fields. A DUALEM-21S sensor, along with high-accuracy topography data, was used to characterize soil variability in three agricultural fields situated in Ontario, Canada. Sentinel-2 data assisted in quantifying bare soil and vegetation indices (VIs). The custom Neighborhood Search Analyst (NSA) data clustering tool was implemented using Python scripts. In this algorithm, part of the variance of each data layer is accounted for by subdividing the field into smaller, relatively homogeneous, areas. The algorithm’s attributes were illustrated using field elevation, shallow and deep apparent electrical conductivity (ECa), and several VIs. The unique feature of this proposed protocol was the successful development of user-friendly and open source options for defining the spatial continuity of each group and for use in the zone delineation process.
Financial, Job and Health Satisfaction: A Comparative Approach on Working People
Authors: Navarro María
Published: May 2019

The determinants of domain satisfactions could be differently evaluated depending on the aspect of life considered, which would lead to different implications for public policies. To test this hypothesis, using the German Socio−Economic Panel (GSOEP), we analyse the effect of different economic and non−economic factors on satisfaction with financial situation, job and health status. The main results confirm that several determinants exert different effects depending on the aspect of life that people are evaluating. For instance, household income only improves satisfaction with financial situation but it does not explain job or health satisfaction. However, those people with an active social life, who are less worried and distrustful, are more satisfied regardless of the aspect of life considered. These findings reflect the importance of studying the main determinants of the domain satisfactions using a comparative perspective to design and evaluate specific public policies, since some measures could be effective for improving satisfaction in one area of an individual’s life but not for others.
What Do Global Metrics Tell Us about the World?
Authors: Short John Rennie , Vélez-Hagan Justin , Dubots Leah
Published: May 2019

There are now a wide variety of global indicators that measure different economic, political and social attributes of countries in the world. This paper seeks to answer two questions. First, what is the degree of overlap between these different measures? Are they, in fact, measuring the same underlying dimension? To answer this question, we employ a principal component analysis (PCA) to 15 indices across 145 countries. The results demonstrate that there is one underlying dimension that combines economic development and social progress with state stability. Second, how do countries score on this dimension? The results of the PCA allow us to produce categorical divisions of the world. The threefold division identifies a world composed of what we describe and map as rich, poor and middle countries. A five-group classification provided a more nuanced categorization described as: The very rich, free and stable; affluent and free; upper middle; lower middle; poor and not free.
An Improvement of GM (1, N) Model Based on Support Vector Machine Regression with Nonlinear Cross Effects
Authors: Duan Jinli , Jiao Feng , Zhang Qishan
Published: May 2019

This paper presents GM (1, N) models with linear cross effect and nonlinear cross effect, and discusses the difference of driving factors between these two types of models to solve the cross effects of GM (1, N) model. The model with a linear cross effect in this paper preserves the solution of whitenization in the GM (1, 1) model. While the model with nonlinear cross effect integrates the sequences of systemic features, driving factors, and the cross effect of these driving factors. While applying support vector machine (SVM) regression, it transfers the nonlinear relationship among these sequences to a linear relationship. To test the GM (1, N) model that is based on support vector machine (SVM) with nonlinear effect, the study applies it to forecast the total output of the pharmaceutical industry. The range of the data is selected from 2005–2017, which the data from 2005–2013 are used to fit into the model. The GM (1, N) model based on SVM with nonlinear cross effect achieves 0.6566 and 0.2956 in its fitted total of relative error and the forecast total of relative error, respectively. The new model presents a more accurate analysis on fitting and forecast precision than the classic GM (1, N) model and GM (1, N) with the linear cross effect model.
A Review of SWAT Studies in Southeast Asia: Applications, Challenges and Future Directions
Authors: Tan Mou Leong , Gassman Philip W. , Srinivasan Raghavan , Arnold Jeffrey G. , Yang XiaoYing
Published: May 2019

The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model is recognized as one of the top hydrological models applied for addressing hydrologic and environmental issues. This is the first review on the SWAT model studies in Southeast Asia, with an emphasis on its applications, current challenges and future research directions. A total of 126 articles were identified since 2006; roughly 50% of these studies were conducted in Vietnam or Thailand. About 16% of the studies were performed at a transnational scale, which included Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam. Model capability assessment, land use, and climate change assessment are the main SWAT applications that have been reported for the region. Most of the SWAT calibration and validation results for these studies were classified as satisfactory to very good results based on widely recognized performance indicators. However, the parameterization, calibration and validation procedures are not well reported in some articles. Availability of reliable data is one of the main problems that SWAT users are confronted with, as these data are either not freely available or restricted from public access in some countries. Hence, future studies should be considered on identification and development of reliable input data for SWAT modeling. SWAT model modification based on the SEA climate, geographical and land use conditions is another research direction to be considered in the future. Moreover, application of SWAT for extreme events simulation requires more attention in this region.
Heritage-Based Water Harvesting Solutions
Authors: Ursino Nadia , Pozzato Luca
Published: May 2019

Old city centers are often protected against the introduction of new architectural elements and require site-specific and respectful solutions for sustainable water management. Revitalizing part of ancient water systems matches more than one sustainable development goal. Ancient water management tools may be reinterpreted and innovated to preserve environmental resources, cultural heritage, and tradition, leading to new valuable heritage-based solutions (HBSs). The realization of rain water harvesting and reuse (RWHR) systems incorporating ancient elements of old water distribution systems, is proposed as an HBS for sustainable water management in old city centers. The case of Venice ancient cisterns (veras) is examined and discussed.
Optimization of the terms of supportive periodontal therapy using photoactivated disinfection
Authors: Atrushkevich V. G. , Orekhova L. Yu. , Yanushevich O. O. , Sokolova E. Yu. , Loboda E. S.
Published: May 2019

Relevance: to indentify if periodontal treatment which is presented by photoactivated disinfection (PAD) adjunctively to scaling and root planing (SRP) yield better outcomes than ozone therapy as an adjunct to SRP in periodontitis.

Materials and methods: we examined 57 (mean age 49,3 ± 1,02) patients with chronic periodontitis, divided into groups, SRP + PAD, SRP + ozone therapy and SRP alone. Subgingival plaque samples were subjected to DNA extraction and real time PCR amplifcation for detection Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), Prevotella intermedia (Pi), Tannerella forsythensis (Tf), Treponema denticola (Td), Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa). The amount of periodontopathogens and clinical parameters including plaque index, clinical attachment loss, pocket depth, bleeding on probing were measured at baseline, after 40, 90 and 180 days.

Results: the results in groups of PAD+SRP and ozone therapy+SRP showed an improvement in all clinical parameters PI, BOP, PD, CAL and the quantity of Pg, Td and Tf compared to the control group during an observation period.

Conclusion: the results showed additional benefts from PAD and ozone therapy as an adjunctive treatment to SRP for patients of chronic periodontitis.
Comparative evaluation of changes in the ultrastructure of tooth enamel and dental implants using air-abrasive methods of surface decontamination in the process of carrying out professional oral hygiene
Authors: Orekhova L. Yu. , Loboda E. S. , Neizberg D. M. , Boeva P. A. , Berezkina I. V.
Published: May 2019

Relevance. To remove above-gum deposits and under-gum deposits air-abrasive methods are widely used. However, the mechanical properties of air-abrasive products are not known to ensure professional hygiene in the feld of exposure various tooth structures. In this regard more detailed studies on these issues are therefore needed. The aim of the present study was to undertake an comparative analysis of changes in the ultrastructure of the surface of tooth hard tissues when they are processed by powders consisting of sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, glycine and trehalose.

Materials and methods. The production of vertical teeth grinding, thickness 1-2 mm, removed by orthopedic or orthodontic indications; the processing of these sections by air-abrasive powders in compliance with the Protocol of use of these funds from the manufacturers during the professional hygiene and the study of the samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) by a special technique.

Results. The answer to the task was the data of comparative analysis of damage to the enamel surface as a result of processing by various air-abrasive systems and the determination of the least traumatic method of conducting professional oral hygiene in relation to the enamel surface.

Conclusions. Processing of enamel by air-abrasive method using powder based on trehalose, glycine and calcium carbonate, observing the recommended conditions for the use of these systems, does not lead to a signifcant change in the enamel ultrastructure, damage or deformation, unlike powders based on calcium bicarbonate. Therefore these systems can be recommended during maintenance periodontal therapy for the prevention of periodontal diseases and dental caries for a long period of time. However, the use of powder based on calcium carbonate is not desirable in the area of dental implants and orthodontic structures such as braces, since the powder remains on these surfaces unchanged and can subsequently cause an exacerbation of inﬂammatory processes in soft tissues.
Corrective effect of immunological drugs on oral microbiozinosis in patients with chronical apical periodontitis against the background of oral dysbiosis
Authors: Chepurova N. I. , Romanenko I. G.
Published: May 2019

Relevance.One of the main causes of periodontitis is oral dysbiosis, in which changes in the quantitative and qualitative composition of the microﬂora occur, the systems of interaction between the microorganism and the microbiota are disturbed, and immunity is reduced. Is to study the comparative anti-disbiotic efcacy of various immunobiological preparations in patients with chronic apical periodontitis against the background of oral dysbiosis.

Materials and methods.The study included 66 patients who were divided into 2 groups: comparisons (n = 34) and main (n = 32). Each group was divided into three subgroups depending on the degree of dysbiosis of the oral cavity according to the method of A.P. Levitsky (2007): determination of the ratio of the relative activities of urease and saliva lysozyme. All patients underwent traditional endodontic treatment and oral hygiene with parallel correction of oral microbiocenosis through the use of a complex of immunomodulatory drugs to patients of the main group.

Results.In chronic apical periodontitis, urease activity was signifcantly increased, and in those examined with grade II-III dysbiosis almost 2 times compared with patients with grade I severity of clinical manifestations. The proposed treatment reduced the activity of urease in patients in all three subgroups of both groups (main and comparison). The results indicate a signifcant decrease in the activity of lysozyme in all patients more than 2 times. Conducted traditional treatment (comparison group) increased activity, but did not lead to a recovery in the rate of healthy individuals. The use of immunomodulatory drugs allowed to increase the level of lysozyme to the indicators of the control group.

Conclusions.The inclusion of immunobiological preparations in the complex therapy of chronic apical periodontitis against the background of oral dysbiosis eliminates the dysbiotic phenomena in the oral cavity and has a therapeutic eﬀect on destructive processes in the periapical tissues that are difcult to treat and often recur.
Os “fundamentos geológicos do relevo paulista” nos dias atuais
Authors: Dal Ré Carneiro Celso
Published: May 2019

Os editores da Revista do IG decidiram reproduzir neste número uma síntese fundamental produzida pelo Professor Fernando Flávio Marques de Almeida: Fundamentos geológicos do relevo paulista. O Professor Fernando [1906-2013] foi o mais influente geólogo brasileiro. Ao mesmo tempo em que caracteriza pormenorizadamente as feições de relevo do território estadual paulista, o texto descreve relações com o substrato rochoso, suas estruturas e controle tectônico. A classificação das províncias, zonas e subzonas feita em 1964 foi reelaborada com a participação ativa do Professor Fernando, entre 1978-1981, para fins de planejamento de uso da terra, por equipe do Instituto de Pesquisas Tecnológicas do Estado de São Paulo (IPT). Apenas o mapa geomorfológico ao milionésimo foi publicado junto com nota explicativa. Restou inédito um conjunto de folhas parciais, em escala 1:250.000, que subsidiaram a pesquisa do IPT.
Effects of total eclipse of the sun in november 12th, 1966 in Bagé (RS), Brazil, on the meteorological parameters
Authors: Funari Frederico Luiz , Dos Santos Paulo Marques
Published: May 2019

This work presents the evaluation of the thermal sensitivity index and global radiation during the total eclipse of the sun on November 12th, 1966, in the city of Bagé, RS, Brazil, located in the central line of the totality range of the eclipse. Temperature (oC), relative air humidity (%), cloudiness and wind speed were acquired in the international airport of the city for the calculation of the resultant temperature index by using Missenard’s method (1948). Global radiation data was obtained from Eppley spectral radiometer. The results showed a variation in thermal sensation, due to the decreased global radiation and corresponding decreased temperature and increased relative humidity during the eclipse.
Improved Perceptual Video Encryption Technique using Residue Number System
Authors: Alhassan Salamudeen , Iddrisu Mohammed Muniru , Daabo Mohammed Ibrahim
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we propose an enhanced perceptual video encryption technique to speed-up and secure cipher video transmitted across networks using Residue Number System (RNS). The technique proposes a new reverse converter with smaller dynamic range using the moduli set {2n-1, 2n, 2n+1} that is integrated into our previous work of [2]. After encryption, cipher video is encoded into three residual videos that have smaller pixel values and ideal for transmission across networks. Instead of transmitting the three (3) residual videos, the technique effectively transmits and decodes only two (2) of them back into the original video with same visual quality. Experimental results show that the technique enhances transmission speed and security of cipher video across networks.
Prevalence of E. coli O157:H7 in Dairy Cattle and the Farm Environment
Authors: BİRDAL Esin , AK Seyyal
Published: May 2019

The aims of this study were, to detect the presence,
and investigate the seasonal prevalence of E.
coli O157:H7 from feces and milk of the healthy dairy cattle in various age
groups, and from feces of the other animals (dog, cat etc.) present in the
farms. Also environmental samples from the farms which belonged to public or
private establishments, in the Marmara Region of Turkey were included.

            For
that purpose, 96 fecal and milk samples from the same animals (except death and
slaughtering) and 96 environmental samples were collected from the determined
10 farms, in fall and spring periods. 

            In total, of 576 (288 samples in the fall period while
288 samples in the spring) samples were examined. The samples were collected
totally from 139 animals because of the new animals were added due to death or slaughtering
in the spring period.

            All
samples were enriched in modified Tryptic Soya Broth. After the immunomagnetic
separation, O157 Dynabeads and bacterial suspensions were inoculated onto
sorbitol MacConkey agar with cefixime and tellurite. Sorbitol negative colonies
were inoculated onto sorbitol MacConkey agar supplemented with
4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D-glucuronide. Suspected colonies which were chosen from
this medium were applied for latex and tube agglutination assays for
characterization of O157 serogroup, biochemical tests and tube agglutination
assay for detecting H7 antigen respectively.

            In
the fall period, E. coli O157 was
isolated from one environmental sample and E.coli
O157:H7 from one fecal sample. In the spring period, E. coli O157 was isolated from 10 and E. coli O157:H7 from one fecal sample. Seven of E. coli O157 isolates were from the same
farm which tested negative during in the first sampling. In total, 576 samples
were examined and two samples were identified as E. coli O157:H7 (0.35 %) and confirmed by PCR assay applied on the
BAX System Q7.

            E. coli O157:H7 which was identified in
the fall period was not isolated in the spring period. Because, the animal which
fecal sample taken from was newly added because of slaughtering or death.

            Seasonal
effect was detected significant only in the isolation rate of E. coli O157 in feces (p<0.01).
Determination of the Growth Performance and Soil Protection Ability of the Caper (Capparis sp) in Eroded Site in Semi-Arid Region of Artvin, Turkey
Authors: Yüksek Turan , YÜKSEK Filiz , ÖZALP Mehmet , ÖLMEZ Zafer
Published: May 2019

As
a result of the statistical analysis, there were significant differences in
terms of runoff, sediment transport amount and sediment concentration according
to season and years, but no significant differences were observed between bare
area and caper experimental sites. It has been determined that the adaptation
of the caper in the eroded soil and its development is not at the desired level.
It is thought that severe summer drought during the growing season negatively
affects the survival and development of the caper saplings in the first years
of planting. The survival rate of the caper and its low development could not prevent
the erosive effect of the rain. It can be said that severe summer drought and
soil characteristics (e.g: soil texture, soil water level) have significant
effects on growing and survival rates of caper saplings. It can be more useful
to use combination with additional erosion control techniques (e.g., soil
protection techniques) to make erosion control in this kind of sites where
there is irregular and inadequate rainfall.

 In
this study, the growth performance and soil protection ability of the Caper (Capparis sp) in eroded site in semi-arid
region of Artvin, Turkey were investigated. For this purpose, the experimental
design at the site included a randomized complete block with four replicates (a
total of 8 experimental plots: 2 treatments × 4 replicates). Each plot was 20-m
long×5-mwide, which is wide enough to minimize edge effects and large enough
for downslope rills to develop. Between 2006-2008, water and sediment
accumulated in sediment deposited tanks were measured. Then, with the help of
these values, the runoff, the amount of transported sediment and the
concentration of transported sediment were calculated. In addition, the
development of the caper seedlings has been observed and recorded. As a result
of the research, the average survival
percent of caper sapling in 2006 was found to be 21%. While, the mean height of
caper seedlings varied between 4.6 cm and 6.1 cm in 2006, it has been varied between
5.2 cm and 8.18 cm in 2007.
Nahcivan’ın Jeobotaniki Bölgelendirilmesine Katkılar
Authors: İBRAHİMOV Elyar , CABBAROV Musa , NEBİYEVA Fatmahanım , ATAMOV Vagıf
Published: May 2019

Bu araştırma ile Nahcivan arazisi flora ve vejetasyon özelliklerine göre detaylı jeobotaniki-coğrafi bölgelere ayrılmıştır. Araştırma alanı; 7 vejetasyon kuşağı, 20 bölge, 24 alt bölge ve 17 mikro bölge olmak üzere toplam 62 jeobotaniki birime ayrılmıştır. Vejetasyon tiplerinin bölgede dikey kuşaklanmasına göre; halofitik çöl, yavşanlı yarı çöl, dağ-bozkır ve frigana kuşakları daha geniş, yüksek dağ çayır, subnival-nival ve dağ-tundra kuşakları ise daha dar alanları kapsamaktadır. Bölgenin bitki örtüsünde karakter olan vejetasyon tiplerinden birisi de seyrek arid orman ve frigana birlikleridir. Astragalus ve Acantholimon cinsine ait olan türlerin yaygın olduğu birliklerde bazen Onobrychis cornuta türü de yaygın olarak Şerur ve Ordubad il sınırları içerisinde öne çıkmaktadır. Dağ-kserofit ve arid seyrek orman birliklerinin florasında; Pyrus salicifolia, P. oxyprion, Rosa sosnovskyana, R. subafreliana, R. brotherorum, R. buschiana, R. foetida, Crataegus pontica, C. sanguinea, Tamarix florida, T. oktandra, T. ramosissima, Betula pendula, Juniperus communis, J. sabina, J. excelsa, J. foetidissima, Pistacia mutica, Paliurus spina-christi, özellikle Celtis caucasica, C. tournefortii, C. glabrata, Amygdalus fenzliana, Rhus coriaria vb. yaygın olan karakter taksonlar olduğu belirlenmiştir. Bu araştırma ile bölgenin düzlük kesimlerinde; Anabasis aphylla, Halocnemum strobilaceum, Halostachys belangeriana, Kalidium caspicum, Petrosimonia brachiata, Suaeda altissima, S. dendroides, Salsola dendroides, S. crassa, S. nodulosa, Seidlitzia florida gibi bitkilerinin iştiraki ile halofitik çöl birliklerinin alanının genişlediği yönünde suksesyon gerçekleştiği ilk defa olarak belirlenmiştir.