bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-chemical properties of extruded aquafeed pellets containing black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens) larvae and adult cricket (Acheta domesticus) meals
Authors: Irungu F.G. , Mutungi C.M. , Faraj A.K. , Affognon H. , Kibet N. , Tanga C. , Ekesi S. , Nakimbugwe D. , Fiaboe K.K.M.
Published: February 2018

Fish farming is faced with the challenge of high cost of feeds because of the cost of high quality protein needed for formulation of the feeds. Thus, there is urgent need for alternative protein sources. The effects of substituting freshwater shrimp meal (FWSM) with black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFM) or adult cricket meal (ACM) on physico-chemical properties of hot-extruded fish feed pellets were investigated. The FWSM protein in a 26 g/100 g protein fish feed formulation was substituted at 0, 25, 50 and 75%, and moisture content of the formulated blends adjusted to 10, 20 or 30 g/100 g prior to extrusion. Floatability, expansion rate, bulk density, durability index, water absorption index, water solubility index, and water stability of extruded pellets were determined. Sinking velocity and the total suspended and dissolved solids in water were determined for the optimal pellets. Pellet floatability was not influenced by the type of insect meal but the interaction between level of inclusion and moisture content of the feed at extrusion. Pellets with high floatability >90% were produced from all feed blends at 30 g/100 g moisture content. Expansion ratio, was not influenced by type of insect meal or the level of inclusion but by the moisture content whereby feed blends extruded at 30 g/100 g moisture gave pellets with high expansion ratio ~60%. Bulk density was influenced by the interaction of the three factors. Pellet durability and water absorption indices were not influenced by the investigated factors or their interactions. Processed pellets were generally highly durable (99%) out of water, but the stability in water was significantly influenced by the interaction of type of insect meal level of inclusion and moisture content at extrusion. Water solubility increased with increasing extrusion moisture. Overall, it was possible to process good quality extruded pellets with 75% BSFM or 75% ACM at 30 g/100 g feed moisture.
A Health Literacy-Focused Intervention for Latinos with Hypertension
Authors: Han Hae-Ra , Delva Sabianca , Greeno Rebeca Vergara , Negoita Serban , Cajita Mia , Will Wilson
Published: February 2018

Latinos in the United States are experiencing increasing incidences of uncontrolled high blood pressure (HBP). Health literacy is an important determinant of adequate HBP self-management, yet no community-based intervention has effectively addressed health literacy in the management of HBP in the target community. The purpose of this study was to test the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a health literacy-focused HBP intervention in Spanish-speaking Latinos with uncontrolled HBP. Using a one-group pre- and post-test study design, the study intervention was delivered to Spanish-speaking Latinos in Baltimore, MD, who had uncontrolled HBP. The intervention consisted of four weekly group sessions for health literacy training combined with disease knowledge education in HBP management, followed by phone counseling and text messages for 3 months. Seventeen participants received the study intervention. Eleven who completed the follow-up assessment at 16 weeks reported high satisfaction with the intervention. Participation in the intervention resulted in improved blood pressure, numeracy, and psychological outcomes. Our findings support health literacy education as a promising avenue in promoting HBP control among inner-city Spanish-speaking Latinos.

[
HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2018;2(1):e21–e25.]
Characterization of Hydrothermal Processing Influence on Strontium Substituted Apatite by Investigating Stable Oxygen Isotope Ratio and Antibacterial Activity of Obtained Peroxyapatite
Authors: Valkovska Valda , Osīte Agnese , Buša Lauma , Nikolajeva Vizma
Published: February 2018

Synthetic hydroxyapatite (HAp) has weak antibacterial and mechanical properties. The antibacterial activity of HAp can be enhanced by strontium cation substitution and incorporation of peroxide ion via hydrothermal processing at 100 °C and 150 °C temperature using 50% H2O2 solution. The starting reagents and products of HAp processing were analyzed by thermal conversion elemental analyser – isotopic ratio mass spectrometer in order to determine the δ18O values. Using different host materials it could be possible to determine differences of δ18O values between untreated and hydrothermally treated HAp samples. The enhanced antibacterial properties of processed HAp samples were investigated using Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Hydrothermal processing by H2O2 solutions provides additional antibacterial activity and peroxide content of hydrothermally treated samples affect δ18O values.
Fast Pyrolysis of Rapeseed Oil in Presence of CuO Supported SBA-15 Catalysts
Authors: Kampars Valdis , Zīriņa Sintija , Stanke Agija , Roze Modris
Published: February 2018

In this study SBA-15 based catalysts loaded with copper oxide were synthesized, characterised and investigated in fast catalytic pyrolysis of rapeseed oil using catalyst mixing method. Results of catalyst characterisation showed that all synthesised samples are mesoporous silica with uniform hexagonal shape cylindrical pores with space group P6mm and average pore size of 6 nm. Supported CuO did not influence the uniform hexagonal shape; however surface area and pore diameter decreased with increasing CuO loading. Investigation of fast pyrolysis of rapeseed oil shows that supporting with CuO suppresses the deoxygenation in form of H2O, CO and CO2 =regardless of the amount of CuO. At the same time supported CuO increased the content of oxygenates in the pyrolysis products = linearly to the CuO amount till 6-8% m/m of CuO. Further scale up the CuO content lowered the yield of oxygenates.
Competitive Interesterification-Transesterification of Rapeseed Oil with Methyl Acetate in Presence of Potassium Metoxide Solutions
Authors: Sile Elina , Kampars Valdis , Sustere Zane
Published: February 2018

Two catalytic systems (CH3OK/CH3OH and CH3OK/tert-BuOH) were tested to estimate competitive interesterification-transesterification processes of rapeseed oil with methyl acetate. Catalyst completely dissolves in methanol, while in tert-butanol suspension was obtained. With CH3OK/CH3OH catalytic system high FAME content was obtained (86 wt%), but triacetin content was negligible and without FAME mostly transesterification products of oil and triacetin were observed (up to 94 wt% of all products). When CH3OK/tert-BuOH catalytic system was used, only interesterification of oil proceeded, nevertheless the composition of product complicated the interesterification of triacetin with tert-butanol.
Water as Significant Factor Having Influence on Composite Material Properties Based on Scrap Tyres and Polyurethane Binder
Authors: Malers Laimonis , Kurme Renate
Published: February 2018

Composite materials based on scrap tires and polyurethane type polymer binder with defined reactivity were investigated to underline the influence of water (varying air humidity, special treatment of rubber crumb with water) during the production on selected mechanical properties. Compressive stress and modulus of elasticity E at 10% deformation, Shore C hardness and apparent density were investigated. Strong correlation between the above-mentioned mechanical properties of the composite materials and the crosslinking conditions of the polymer (presence of water during the production of composite materials) were observed. It has been confirmed previously that the crosslinking degree of polyurethane type binder separately and, therefore, at the same time mechanical properties of binder was strongly dependent on water as a significant factor during the hardening of the polymer.
A Study on Acidification and Intercalation of Illite Clay Minerals and their Potential Use as a Filler in SPEEK Composite Membranes
Authors: Trubača-Boginska Anna , Ādiņa Rūta , Vaivars Guntars , Švirksts Janis
Published: February 2018

The acidification and intercalation of illite containing clays were studied for potential use as fillers for sulphonated poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) composite membrane preparation and future proton exchange membrane fuel cells application. The acidification and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) intercalation of illite clays have been studied by powder X-ray diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and thermogravimetric analysis. SPEEK composite membranes were made with 1, 3 and 5% purified, acidified, DMSO intercalated clay fillers. SPEEK/clay composite membranes were characterized by proton conductivity, water uptake, and mechanical strength.
On PEO-Based MWCNT and Graphene Composite Electrolyte Structure
Authors: Jurkane Aleksandra , Gaidukov Sergejs
Published: February 2018

Novel and highly effective polyethylene oxide (PEO) based composite electrolytes were prepared by combining the graphene nanoplatelets (GR) and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) for the application as solid polymer electrolyte. MWCNT and GR were used as reinforcing filler and as electrical conductivity enhancement agent. Dispersions in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) of MWCNT and GR within the PEO matrix were prepared. DMF are featured by high electron-pair donor number and low hydrogen-bonding parameters, therefore DMF is considered a standard for liquid-phase exfoliation of MWCNT and GR. In our study, the MWCNT and GR solutions were tip sonicated using an ultrasonic processor, operated at 80% amplitude. A pulse-mode (cycle of 0.5 s) sonication was used because of the system relaxation role for the off phase, allowing a higher cavitation intensity and lower heat generation to be reached. Subsequent heat pressing was applied to obtain thin solid PEO composite electrolytes. Analyses of the experimental and theoretical density of prepared solid PEO composite electrolytes are calculated and discussed. GR and MWCNT functionalization effect on void content of polymer composites is evaluated. FTIR analysis was carried out to further investigate the effect of fillers content. The SEM results showed that surface of electrolyte film became rougher after the addition of MWCNT and GR. It is concluded, that the higher is filler fraction, the lower is void content and greater is composite density.
Photoinduced Anisotropy of IWK-2D Azobenzene Molecular Glassy Films
Authors: Ozols Andris , Letko Edvins , Augustovs Peteris , Saharov Dmitry , Zarins Elmars , Kokars Valdis
Published: February 2018

We have experimentally studied photoinduced anisotropy (PA) of holographic gratings in IWK-2D [precise chemical notation: 2-(3-(4-((4-(bis (2-(trityloxy) ethyl) amino) phenyl) diazenyl) styryl)-5,5-dimethylcyclohex-2-enylidene) malononitrile] azobenzene molecular glassy films in transmission and reflection modes using a special simultaneous holographic recording and readout setups which enabled measurements of PA time evolution. PA manifested itself by diffraction efficiency difference with linear s- and p-polarizations. Three different types of polarization holographic gratings were recorded and studied using p-p, L-L and L-R polarized beams creating different recording interference patterns. Atomic force microscope (AFM) was used to study the surface profile changes. Experimental evidence was obtained that the transmission mode PA was due to the both recorded surface relief and volume polarization gratings whereas the reflection mode PA was due to the recorded surface relief gratings. The main PA features were similar for all three types of polarization gratings whereas details were different. PA properties of IWK-2D films were notably distinctive from those of previously studied films.
Comparison of Luminescent Properties in Solid-State and Polymer Films of Eu(III) Complexes Containing 2-Acylindandione Ligands
Authors: Malina Ilze , Kampars Valdis
Published: February 2018

The Europium(III) ternary complexes Eu(BID)3(PHEN) and Eu(MBID)3(PHEN) (BID – 2-benzoyl-1,3-indandione, MBID - 2-(4-methylbenzoyl)-1,3-indandione and PHEN – 1,10-Phenantroline) were synthesized, characterized and incorporated into poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) and poly-N-vinylcarbazole (PVK) matrixes. Emission properties in solid-state and polymer films were investigated through excitation spectra, emission spectra and absolute photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY). Both complexes in their solid-state and films exhibited red-light luminescence with narrow bands corresponding to Eu(III) ion emission. In solid-state complexes were characterized with PLQY of 6% and 10%, in PVK matrixes quantum yield dropped down to 4%, however, in PMMA films exhibited similar luminescence PLQY than in solid-state.
Charge Transport Layer Doping Influence on Perovskite CH3NH3PbI3-xClx Solar Cell Performance
Authors: Ivanova Anastasia , Lebedeva Kristina , Tokmakov Andrey , Roze Modris , Kaulachs Igors
Published: February 2018

Organometal hybrid trihalide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged a new class of optoelectronic devices for various applications. PSCs have demonstrated unprecedented progress in efficiency reaching certified power conversion efficiency 22.1% after only several years of active research. In this paper, we demonstrate inverted planar mixed halide perovskite solar cells where perovskite layers are built by two-step modified interdifussion and one-step methods. We demonstrate how PSC parameters change by doping electron transport layer (ETL). We used N,N-dimethyl-N-octadecyl (3-aminopropyl) trimethoxysilyl chloride (DMOAP) as dopant for ETL [6,6]-phenyl C61butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM). The highest EQE and Vocvalues were obtained for cell prepared by one-step method with fast crystallization and doped ETL but higher fill factor (FF) and shunt resistance (Rshunt) values were obtained for cells prepared by two-step method with undoped ETL.
Morphologic, Photocatalytic and Antibacterial Properties of ZnO-TiO2 Sol-Gel System
Authors: Zukuls Anzelms , Mežinskis Gundars , Reinis Aigars , Skadins Ingus , Kroica Juta , Stafecka Ieva , Durena Ramona
Published: February 2018

Prepared and heat-treated sol-gel ZnO-TiO2 coatings onto microscope glass slides were characterised by atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), as well as absorption spectra of light has been obtained. Thermally treated xerogels were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD). As well as their photocatalytic activity using methyl orange (MO) and observing the colour changes over the time in visible light (VIS) and ultra violet (UV) light has been determined. The influence of ZnO concentration on morphology, photocatalytic activity and antibacterial properties of coatings was analysed. The growth of S. epidermidis on the surface of the samples was inhibited due to photocatalytic properties of coatings.
Characterization of Fe2O3-TiO2 Thin Films Prepared from Sonicated and Unsonicated Sols
Authors: Mežinskis Gundars , Larionova Darja , Grase Liga
Published: February 2018

The development of immobilized visible light-active photocatalysts has attracted growing scientific interest due to numerous potential commercial applications. In this work sonicated and unsonicated sols were used for the development of thin films on glass substrates. The coatings were prepared using Fe2O3-TiO2 sols containing 1-5 mol% Fe2O3 and 99-95 mol% TiO2. The coatings were obtained by dip-coating method and annealed at 500 °C for 1 hour. The synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The ultrasound treatment of sols led to the reduction of the size of iron doped nanocrystals of TiO2 and absorption enhancement in the visible light.
Extracts of Peppermint, Chamomile and Lavender as Antioxidants
Authors: Mieriņa Inese , Jakaite Laura , Kristone Sabine , Adere Laura , Jure Mara
Published: February 2018

This paper is devoted to the studies of total polyphenol content and antiradical activity of peppermint, chamomile and lavender grown in local backyard gardens of Latvia. Different solvents (96, 70 and 40% ethanol) and extraction methods (maceration at room temperature at dark or under day-light irradiation, as well as reflux) were tested. All extracts were analyzed for total polyphenol content (Folin–Ciocalteu method), as well as for antiradical activity (DPPH and GO assays). It was found out that local peppermint and chamomile is as good source of polyphenols as those plants grown in southern countries; however, the total polyphenol content of lavender is lower than that mentioned in literature. The highest polyphenol content for all plant materials was achieved, when 70% ethanol was used for extraction. Peppermint extracts were found as most powerful free radical scavengers among all tested plant materials. 96% Ethanol extract of peppermint and chamomile demonstrated the highest antiradical activity, while 70% ethanol was the most suitable for preparation of lavender extract with optimal free radical scavenging activity.
Catalytic Pyrolysis of Wood by Presence of Clay Minerals
Authors: Švinka Ruta , Švinka Visvaldis , Lescinskis Oskars , Lindina Lauma
Published: February 2018

Devonian, and Quaternary clays of Latvia together with additive of sawdust after plastic moulding of pellets were used. Partial oxidation of sawdust and formation of active carbon after thermal shock at temperature 800°C were determined. The main clay mineral in all of clays was hydromica with some difference in the structure. Obtained materials with bulk density 1.1 g/cm3 as sorbent for different chemicals such as iodine and methylene blue was used. Dependence of sorption ability of pellets on the type of used clay (clay minerals) was determined. XRD for the determination of phase compositions, nitrogen absorption for the pore size distribution, SEM for the analysis of structure and nanoscale Zetasizer for the determination of surface charge were used.
Effect of Various Additives and Aeration on the Properties of Lightweight Concrete
Authors: Sahmenko Genadijs , Namsone Eva , Rubenis Kristaps , Dubnika Arita , Niparts Guntars
Published: February 2018

In the present study the effect of various additives (silica sand, silica fume, zeolite and cenospheres) as well as the aeration on the properties (consistency, density, compressive and bending strength) of lightweight concrete was studied. Density, compressive and bending strength of the lightweight concrete were substantially reduced by replacing silica sand with censopheres or by adding air entraining agent to the grout used for the preparation of the samples. Silica fume and zeolite admixture improved mechanical properties of the samples. Specific compressive strength of the cenospheres containing samples is comparable or even higher than the ones made of the mixes without the cenospheres.
Novel Ciprofloxacin Derivatives for Polymer-Based Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Gerasimova Tatjana , Rjabovs Vitālijs , Turks Māris
Published: February 2018

Novel derivatives of fluoroquinolone antibiotic ciprofloxacin were synthesized. The modifications of both the N- and C-termini were focused on introduction of functionalized linkers that can be used for covalent attachment to natural or synthetic polymers with appropriate functional groups.
Evaluation of Antibacterial Properties of Flax Textiles Coated by Sol-Gel Technology
Authors: Vihodceva Svetlana
Published: February 2018

The present research reports on flax textile modification by the use of sol-gel technology with the purpose to determine their antibacterial properties. The evaluation of antibacterial activity against pathogenic microorganisms Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was carried out by the Parallel streak method in accordance with the ATCC147 standard. The morphological changes on the flax textile surface before and after coating were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). It has been concluded that the sol-gel treatment can impart antibacterial properties to flax textiles against all tested bacteria preventing the bacteria growth.
One-Bath Dyeing Technology for Cotton Blended Fabric - Part 2: Assessment of Colouration Effectiveness
Authors: Borisova Anna
Published: February 2018

The present study deals with the one-step one-bath dyeing of with/without alkaline treatment of twill weaved 50/50 cotton/polyester blended fabric using disperse dyes only. The dyeing results are studied by colorimetric colour measurements, applying instrumental approach, and colour change during fastness tests. Several testing methods are designed and adapted to the disposable technical and material base. The results are found to be promising as an alternative dyeing technology and for effective product quality assessment.
Hydrothermal Processing for Increasing the Hydroxyl Ion Concentration in Hydroxyl Depleted Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Ubele Darta , Pluduma Liene , Gross Karlis Agris , Viksna Arturs
Published: February 2018

Thermal spraying is commercially used to produce hydroxyapatite coatings, but the high temperature depletes hydroxyl ions in the structure. To return hydroxyapatite to its original state, it is necessary to restore the hydroxyl ion content in the structure. In this work, the effect of hydrothermal treatment on the hydroxyl ions was investigated in hydroxyapatite powder and thermally sprayed hydroxyapatite coatings. Samples were hydrothermally treated at 200 °C for 24 h and 48 h. Chemical phases were determined by X-ray diffraction, functional groups and hydroxyl ion concentration was examined by Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy. Results showed that hydrothermal processing of hydroxyapatite coatings at 200 °C for 48 hours produced the greatest increase in the hydroxyl ion concentration by 29%.
Interaction of Oily Water with Floating Porous Ceramic and Immobilized Microorganisms
Authors: Bērziņš Andrejs , Mutere Olga , Švinka Ruta , Švinka Visvaldis
Published: February 2018

Oily water was treated with porous ceramic granules and immobilized microorganisms. Floating granules with bulk density of 0.63-0.66 g cm-3were used. The sorption of motor oil was investigated for dry and wetted granules. Respiration experiments showed that microorganisms immobilized on floating ceramic carrier and treated with oily water were influenced by agitation of liquid. The treatment of oily water with low salinity (1-9 g L-1) showed that oil removal efficiency decreased after increasing water salinity. Likewise, oil removal efficiency decreased from 12 to 9% per gram of ceramic carrier after increasing the spill of oil from 9 to 35 g per square meter. Porous granules with immobilized microorganisms can be used in cases with insignificant oil pollution or for pretreatment of wastewater before feeding it into a wastewater treatment plant.
Impact of Biomass Derived Raw Material on Nitrogen Doped Porous Carbon Structure
Authors: Plavniece Ance , Zhurinsh Aivars , Dobele Galina , Volperts Aleksandrs
Published: February 2018

Carbon compounds with large surface area can be used as electrocatalytic cathodes for fuel cells. Nitrogen atoms largely determine the properties of doped activated carbon, such as hardness, wear resistance, electrical resistance etc., and therefore there is a need for new scientific information on the properties and structure of modified carbon matrix. Wood char and activated carbons based on wood char, cellulose, black liquor, and fine cellulose sludge were obtained in different activation conditions and doped with dicyandiamide. The obtained N-doped carbon materials porous structures were compared taking into account preparation conditions and raw material.
A Hybrid Approach to Right-sided Aortic Arch Aneurysm Using Bilateral Carotid to Subclavian Bypass with a Customized Fenestrated Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair Device
Authors: Burrows Victoria A. , Sookhoo Siuchan
Published: February 2018

We present a hybrid approach to the management of an aortic aneurysm in a right-sided aortic arch with aberrant left subclavian artery and associated Kommerell's diverticulum. The aneurysm extended from the origin of the left common carotid artery to the mid-descending thoracic aorta. A bilateral carotid to subclavian artery bypass was performed followed by endovascular placement of a customized fenestrated thoracic endovascular aortic repair device (TEVAR, Cook Medical, Australia). Endovascular stents (Viabahn, Gore Medical, Arizona) were placed in the carotid arteries bilaterally and Amplatzer II plugs (AGA Medical Corporation) were used to occlude the subclavian arteries. Follow-up imaging at 1 month revealed no evidence of endoleak.
Endovascular Management in a Case of Recurrent Bleed Following Transurethral Resection of the Prostate
Authors: Nerli R. B. , Kadeli Vishal , Mulimani Naveen , Ghagane Shridhar C.
Published: February 2018

Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) remains the gold standard surgical therapy for symptomatic benign prostatic enlargement, with reported International Prostate Symptom Score reduction of up to 70%. However, as many as 20% of patients can have significant complications including sexual dysfunction, perioperative bleeding requiring blood transfusion, and incontinence. Intractable hematuria from the prostate can be life-threatening, and its management remains a difficult clinical problem. Prostate artery embolization (PAE) is occasionally indicated in such patients when all other measures have failed. PAE has been used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia; however, literature related to its use for bleeding following TURP remains limited. We report a case of an elderly male who presented with recurrent episodes of hematuria following TURP and was successfully treated by endovascular management.
Review of surgical anatomy of the tumors involving cavernous sinus
Authors: Chotai Silky , Liu Yi , Qi Songtao
Published: February 2018

The lesions involving cavernous sinus (CS) and lateral sellar region includes tumors, vascular lesions, infection, inflammation, and trauma. Tumors associated with CS cause significant distortion of the microanatomy posing an additional surgical challenge to the neurosurgeons. The surgical approach and microsurgical anatomy with respect to the origin and growth of the tumor within the CS region have not been comprehensively described in recent years. We conducted a review of literature concerning CS and associated tumors, complied through MEDLINE/OVID and using cross-references of articles on PubMed with the keywords cavernous sinus, CS tumors, pituitary adenoma, meningioma, schwannoma, chordoma, CS hemangiomas, extradural, interdural, intradural, skull base, gamma knife radiosurgery, endoscopic endonasal approach. Based on the tumor origin and growth pattern, the tumors associated with CS can be classified into three categories: Type-I: tumor originating from CS, Type-II: originating from lateral wall of CS, and Type-III: extraneous origin and occupying CS. The review focuses on approach to a tumor within each type of tumor in the CS region. The emphasis is that the tumor growth pattern and significant distortion of the CS anatomy caused by the tumor growth should be considered while planning the optimal surgical approach for tumors in this region to ensure complete tumor resection with minimal neurovascular morbidity.
Titchmarsh’s Method for the Approximate Functional Equations for , , and
Authors: Furuya Jun , Minamide T. Makoto , Tanigawa Yoshio
Published: February 2018

Let $\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}(s)$ be the Riemann zeta function. In 1929, Hardy and Littlewood proved the approximate functional equation for $\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}^{2}(s)$ with error term $O(x^{1/2-\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}}((x+y)/|t|)^{1/4}\log |t|)$, where $-1/2<\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}<3/2,x,y\geqslant 1,xy=(|t|/2\unicode[STIX]{x1D70B})^{2}$. Later, in 1938, Titchmarsh improved the error term by removing the factor $((x+y)/|t|)^{1/4}$. In 1999, Hall showed the approximate functional equations for $\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}^{\prime }(s)^{2},\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}(s)\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}^{\prime \prime }(s)$, and $\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}^{\prime }(s)\unicode[STIX]{x1D701}^{\prime \prime }(s)$ (in the range $0<\unicode[STIX]{x1D70E}<1$) whose error terms contain the factor $((x+y)/|t|)^{1/4}$. In this paper we remove this factor from these three error terms by using the method of Titchmarsh.
Characterizing Potential Risks of Fecal–Oral Microbial Transmission for Infants and Young Children in Rural Zambia
Authors: Reid Brie , Orgle Jennifer , Roy Khrist , Pongolani Catherine , Chileshe Modesta , Stoltzfus Rebecca
Published: February 2018

Undernourished children in low-income contexts often suffer from environmental enteric disorder—damage to the intestines probably caused by chronic exposure to bacterial pathogens from feces. We aimed to identify strategies for reducing infants and young children’s (IYC) exposure to human and animal feces in rural farming families by conducting direct observation of 30 caregiver–infant dyads for 143 hours and recording water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)–related behaviors to identify possible pathways of fecal–oral transmission of bacteria among IYC in rural Zambia. In addition to mouthing visibly dirty hands, toys, sibling’s body parts, and food, 14 IYC actively ingested 6.1 ± 2.5 (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) pieces of soil and stones and one ingested animal feces 6.0 ± 0 times in the span of 5 hours. Ninety-three percent (21 of 30) of mothers reported observing the index-child eating soil and 17% (5 of 30) of mothers reported observing the index-child eating chicken feces. Adult and child handwashing was uncommon, and even though 70% (28 of 30) of households had access to a latrine, human feces were found in 67% of homestead yards. Most animals present in the household were un-corralled, and the highest observable counts of feces came from chickens, pigs, and cattle. To protect IYC in low-income communities from the exploratory ingestion of feces and soil, Baby WASH interventions will need to interrupt fecal–oral microbial transmission vectors specific to IYC with a focus on feasibility, caregiver practices, and local perceptions of risk.
Trypanosoma cruzi Detection in Colombian Patients with a Diagnosis of Esophageal Achalasia
Authors: Panesso-Gómez Santiago , Pavia Paula , Rodríguez-Mantilla Iván Enrique , Lasso Paola , Orozco Luis A. , Cuellar Adriana , Puerta Concepción J. , Mendoza de Molano Belén , González John M.
Published: February 2018

Achalasia is a motility disorder of the esophagus that might be secondary to a chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Several studies have investigated esophageal achalasia in patients with Chagas disease (CD) in Latin America, but no related studies have been performed in Colombia. The goals of the present study were to determine the presence of anti-T. cruzi antibodies in patients with esophageal achalasia who visited a referral hospital in Bogotá, Colombia, and to detect the presence of the parasite and its discrete typing units (DTUs). This cross-sectional study was conducted in adult patients (18–65 years old) who were previously diagnosed with esophageal achalasia and from whom blood was drawn to assess antibodies against T. cruzi using four different serological tests. Trypanosoma cruzi DNA was detected by conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR) and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). In total, 38 patients, with an average age of 46.6 years (standard deviation of ±16.2) and comprising 16 men and 22 women, were enrolled. Five (13.15%) patients were found to be positive for anti-T. cruzi antibodies by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), and two patients who were negative according to IFA were reactive by both enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblot (5.3%). Parasite DNA was detected in two of these seven patients by cPCR and in one of these by qPCR. The parasite DTU obtained was TcI. In summary, this study identified T. cruzi in Colombian patients with esophageal achalasia, indicating that digestive compromise could also be present in patients with chronic CD.
Regulatory T-Cell Dynamics in Cutaneous and Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis due to Leishmania braziliensis
Authors: Barros Nicolas , Vasquez Nestor , Woll Fernando , Sanchez Cesar , Valencia Braulio , Llanos-Cuentas Alejandro , White Jr. A. Clinton , Montes Martin
Published: February 2018

To evaluate the dynamics of regulatory T cells (Tregs) during tegumentary leishmaniasis, we assessed peripheral blood and biopsies from 54 patients. Patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) had a decreased proportion of Tregs in the peripheral blood, but the proportion was higher in the biopsies of lesions. During treatment of CL, circulating Tregs increased reaching normal proportions, whereas antigen-specific interferon-γ responses diminished. By contrast, circulating Tregs from mucosal leishmaniasis patients failed to normalize during treatment. C-C chemokine receptor type 5 was expressed on a large proportion of Tregs at the site of infection. These results demonstrate increased Tregs at the site of infection, possibly homing from the peripheral circulation.
Zika Virus Infection in Syrian Golden Hamsters and Strain 13 Guinea Pigs
Authors: Miller Lynn J. , Nasar Farooq , Schellhase Christopher W. , Norris Sarah L. , Kimmel Adrienne E. , Valdez Stephanie M. , Wollen-Roberts Suzanne E. , Shamblin Joshua D. , Sprague Thomas R. , Lugo-Roman Luis A. , Jarman Richard G. , Yoon In-Kyu , Alera Maria T. , Bavari Sina , Pitt M. Louise M. , Haddow Andrew D.
Published: February 2018

To evaluate potential immunocompetent small animal models of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection, we inoculated Syrian golden hamsters (subcutaneously or intraperitoneally) and strain 13 guinea pigs (intraperitoneally) with Senegalese ZIKV strain ArD 41525 or Philippines ZIKV strain CPC-0740. We did not detect viremia in hamsters inoculated subcutaneously with either virus strain, although some hamsters developed virus neutralizing antibodies. However, we detected statistically significant higher viremias (P = 0.0285) and a higher median neutralization titer (P = 0.0163) in hamsters inoculated intraperitoneally with strain ArD 41525 compared with strain CPC-0740. Furthermore, some hamsters inoculated with strain ArD 41525 displayed mild signs of disease. By contrast, strain 13 guinea pigs inoculated intraperitoneally with either strain did not have detectable viremias and less than half developed virus neutralizing antibodies. Our results support the use of the Syrian golden hamster intraperitoneal model to explore phenotypic variation between ZIKV strains.
Prevalence of Chagas Disease among Solid Organ–Transplanted Patients in a Nonendemic Country
Authors: Salvador Fernando , Sánchez-Montalvá Adrián , Sulleiro Elena , Moreso Francesc , Berastegui Cristina , Caralt Mireia , Pinazo María-Jesús , Moure Zaira , Los-Arcos Ibai , Len Oscar , Gavaldà Joan , Molina Israel
Published: February 2018

Reactivation of Chagas disease in the chronic phase may occur after solid organ transplantation, which may result in high parasitemia and severe clinical manifestations such as myocarditis and meningoencephalitis. The aim of the present study is to describe the prevalence of Chagas disease among solid organ–transplanted patients in a tertiary hospital from a nonendemic country. A cross-sectional study was performed at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital (Barcelona, Spain) from April to September 2016. Chagas disease screening was performed through serological tests in adult patients coming from endemic areas that had received solid organ transplantation and were being controlled in our hospital during the study period. Overall, 42 patients were included, 20 (47.6%) were male and median age was 50.5 (23–73) years. Transplanted organs were as follows: 18 kidneys, 17 lungs, and 7 livers. Three patients had Chagas disease, corresponding to a prevalence among this group of solid organ–transplanted patients of 7.1%. All three patients were born in Bolivia, had been diagnosed with Chagas disease and received specific treatment before the organ transplantation. We highly recommend providing screening tests for Chagas disease in patients with or candidates for solid organ transplantation coming from endemic areas, early treatment with benznidazole, and close follow-up to prevent clinical reactivations.
Decreased Sensitivity of Schistosoma sp. Egg Microscopy in Women and HIV-Infected Individuals
Authors: Colombe Soledad , Lee Myung Hee , Masikini Peter J. , van Lieshout Lisette , de Dood Claudia J. , Hoekstra Pytsje T. , Corstjens Paul L. A. M. , Mngara Julius , van Dam Govert J. , Downs Jennifer A.
Published: February 2018

It has been postulated that impaired host immunity due to HIV infection reduces parasite egg excretion. Schistosoma/HIV interactions have also been shown to differ by sex. We hypothesized that egg excretion would vary based on both HIV status and sex. We examined data from more than 1,700 participants in eight studies conducted in northwest Tanzania between 2010 and 2016. Schistosoma infection was defined by circulating anodic antigen (CAA) serum levels ≥ 30 pg/mL and/or egg positivity in either stool by Kato Katz method or urine by filtration. We used multivariable analyses to determine the impact of confounding factors such as sex, age, previous praziquantel treatment, and worm burden as measured by serum CAA level, on the relationship between egg excretion and HIV status. HIV-infected individuals were significantly less likely to excrete schistosome eggs than HIV-uninfected individuals, even after controlling for worm burden and sex (OR = 0.6 [0.4, 0.9], P = 0.005). Furthermore, after controlling for worm burden and HIV status, women had lower odds of egg excretion than men (OR = 0.4 [0.3, 0.5], P < 0.001). Sensitivity of egg microscopy was lower in HIV-infected women than HIV-uninfected men (41% versus 61%, P < 0.001), whereas sensitivity in women remained low in both groups (33% versus 37%, P = 0.664). Our study is the first to report that women with Schistosoma infection excrete fewer eggs than men for a given worm burden, regardless of HIV the status. These findings suggest that guidelines for use of microscopy to diagnose Schistosoma infections in HIV-infected individuals and in women merit reconsideration.
Case Report: Misleading Serological Diagnosis of Paracoccidioidomycosis in a Young Patient with the Acute Form Disease: Paracoccidioides brasiliensis or Paracoccidioides lutzii?
Authors: Buccheri Renata , Morais Vanessa dos Santos , Kamikawa Camila Mika , Vidal Monica Scarpelli Martinelli , Naves Gabriel , Del Negro Gilda Maria Barbaro , Vicentini Adriana Pardini , Benard Gil
Published: February 2018

Negative results in serological routine screening of patients with microbiologically proven Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) are occasionally reported. Failure in detecting anti-Paracoccidioides antibodies has been ascribed to factors either related to serological techniques or to the status of the host immune reactivity. Recently, this issue has been renewed by the recognition that the Paracoccidioides genera comprises two species, lutzii and brasiliensis, which have distinct antigenic profiles and, therefore, may elicit different host antibody responses. We describe a patient with the acute form PCM due to Paracoccidioides brasiliensis with negative results on two reference centers’ routine screening for P. brasiliensis antibodies, but positive results with Paracoccidioides lutzii antigens. The present case report suggests that antibodies elicited during P. brasiliensis infection recognize antigenic fractions shared by both species, highlighting the difficulties in distinguishing the two infections by means of the currently available routine serological assays.
Strukturna zveza zavesti ter zunanjega sveta v kitajski tradiciji
Authors: ROŠKER Jana S.
Published: February 2018

Strukturna združljivost človeške notranjosti in zunanjega sveta predstavlja eno temeljnih paradigem tradicionalne kitajske epistemologije. Ta vidik, ki je nadvse dragocen ne zgolj za sinološke raziskave kitajske filozofske tradicije, temveč tudi za razvoj epistemoloških teorij v svetovnem merilu, ostaja še vedno zakrit s stoletno tradicijo napačnih interpretacij nekaterih osrednjih pojmov in kategorij klasičnih kitajskih diskurzov. Pričujoči članek predlaga novo videnje kitajske idejne tradicije skozi prizmo koncepta strukture.
Introduction
Authors: Veselič Maja
Published: February 2018

This special issue explores the intricate histories and realities of Islamic thought and Muslim lives in East and South Asia from religious, social, political and artistic perspectives. It demonstrates that development of Islam – in religious, cultural and political terms – has been a complex process shaped by distinctive regional, local or even personal (see Petek’s article) considerations and responses to Islam’s universalist teachings.
Aesthetics of the Classical Period of the Islamic Mughal Empire in India through a Portrait of Abū al-Fath Jalāl al-Dīn Muhammad Akbar
Authors: PETEK Nina
Published: February 2018

The reign of Abū al-Fath Jalāl al-Dīn Muhammad Akbar (1556–1605) was a fruitful period of the political, cultural and spiritual synthesis of Persian, Indian, and European tradition, as well as an artistic and aesthetic renaissance. This cosmopolitan, universal and charismatic ruler strived for the external, political, material and spiritual well-being of his colourful empire. In search of a balance between the external and internal, and in his endeavours for the unification and uniformity of India he gradually created a completely new style of Mughal arts, which is a stunning reflection of his personality’s transformations, principles, insights, interests, and spiritual growth.The paper focuses on a psychological portrait of the ruler, who dictated aesthetics and the style of the classical period of Mughal arts which consists of the three basic developmental phases of Akbar’s enigmatic character. The thesis on the parallel development of Akbar’s personality and Mughal arts is supported by research on the influence of certain European and Persian aesthetic elements, and mainly on the influence of Indian philosophical-religious tradition (the doctrines on rasa, bhakti, yoga, and tantra). The early period of Mughal arts, with predominantly realistic elements, coincides with the ruler’s dynamic, youthful enthusiasm and immense curiosity to acquaint himself the most varied aspects of external events and appearances. The second, the mature period, which enriches this earlier realism by means of mystical elements and the symbolism of Indian pre-Mughal painting, is marked by the shift into the interior and by searching for the harmony between the material and spiritual. In the late period of Mughal painting, however, reflexive and lyrical works prevail, which are a reflection of completion of Akbar’s spiritual quests, and the unique project of multifaceted synthesis that he undertook and promoted.
A construção do direito ao duplo grau de jurisdição nas Cortes Europeia e Interamericana de Direitos Humanos
Authors: Varella Marcelo , Echeverria Andrea Dantas
Published: February 2018

A divergência do modelo de direito ao duplo grau de jurisdição construído no âmbito das Cortes suscitou o questionamento

acerca da resistência da Corte Interamericana em aplicar a margem de apreciação nacional, culminando na observância

de que o histórico de ditaduras militares e a atual instabilidade política dos Estados latino-americanos geram uma

certa desconfiança da Corte Interamericana, que impede uma delegação de competência para o âmbito doméstico.

Assim, enquanto a Corte Europeia promove uma internacionalização do direito em parceria com os Estados, tendo

por fundamento um pluralismo ordenado, a Corte Interamericana estabelece uma centralização do processo de

internacionalização, atribuindo-lhe a competência para exercer um controle abstrato das normas mediante o controle

de convencionalidade. Resta questionar se haveria espaço para o pluralismo no processo de harmonização do direito,

como proposto pela Corte Interamericana, ou se se estaria diante de uma simples unificação forçada.
UMA AGENDA PARA O DIREITO AO ESQUECIMENTO NO BRASIL
Authors: Acioli Bruno De Lima , Ehrhardt Júnior Marcos Augusto De Albuquerque
Published: February 2018

O direito ao esquecimento tem sido apresentado no Brasil com certo status de direito novo, apesar de a doutrina jurídica brasileira já trabalhar com seu conceito há algum tempo. O julgamento recente do caso Google Spain na Europa reacendeu o debate jurídico sobre o direito ao esquecimento em todo o mundo, inclusive, no Brasil. Porém, a formulação de uma agenda para esse direito segue prejudicada pela ausência de trabalhos mais detalhados sobre a definição e os vários significados acerca do direito ao esquecimento. Este trabalho se propõe a solucionar esse problema terminológico, trazendo à doutrina brasileira uma classificação do direito ao esquecimento enquanto um termo guarda-chuva, a partir do qual derivam cinco direitos de conteúdo diversos: direito à reabilitação, direito ao apagamento, direito à desindexação, direito à obscuridade e o direito ao esquecimento digital. Este trabalho conterá, ainda, análise de julgados recentes no Superior Tribunal de Justiça e da lei do Marco Civil da Internet, confrontando seus avanços e insuficiências em relação aos vários significados que o direito ao esquecimento resguarda. Solucionando esse problema terminológico, pois espera-se que este trabalho colabore para um melhor direcionamento possível para a doutrina, a legislação e a jurisprudência do direito ao esquecimento no Brasil.
PASSADO, PRESENTE E FUTURO DA CRIPTOGRAFIA FORTE: DESENVOLVIMENTO TECNOLÓGICO E REGULAÇÃO
Authors: De Souza Abreu Jacqueline
Published: February 2018

Os episódios recentes de bloqueio do WhatsApp no Brasil e de confronto entre Apple e FBI nos Estados Unidos retratam um cenário de embate entre Estados-nações e empresas que usam, em seus produtos e serviços, tecnologias de “criptografia forte” ¬— do tipo que não oferece um mecanismo de acesso nem quando o devido processo legal foi observado. A partir de análise da literatura especializada, este artigo investiga como se chegou a esse ponto e quais as questões regulatórias em jogo. Primeiramente, mapeia o histórico das chamadas “guerras de criptografia” nos Estados Unidos e no Brasil. A seguir, analisa se e quando existe um dever jurídico aplicável a empresas de construir sistemas de comunicação e armazenamento de dados que sejam passíveis de realizar quebras de sigilo sempre que seguido o devido processo legal. Por fim, discute questões de política pública em pauta nos debates sobre criptografia forte: os potenciais efeitos para segurança pública e a proposta de “acesso excepcional”. O artigo conclui que, no quadro jurídico em vigor, não é evidente a existência de dever jurídico de ter habilidade de quebrar sigilo para empresas de tecnologia e internet e que, no atual estado da técnica, o balanço de riscos, custos e benefícios da criptografia forte recomenda a preservação incólume dessa tecnologia.