bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA fingerprinting and genetic diversities in some Bangladeshi aus rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes
Authors: Islam MM , Begum HA , Ali MS , Kamruzzaman M , Hoque S , Hoque MI
Published: July 2017

The allelic diversity and relationship among 120 Aus rice landraces were determined through DNA fingerprinting using microsatellite (SSR) markers. A total of 85 SSR markers were used to characterize and discriminate all tested Aus rice genotypes, 45 of which were polymorphic for different chromosome numbers. The number of alleles per locus varied from 6 alleles (RM484 and RM541) to 30 alleles (RM519) with an average of 13 alleles per locus. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values varied ranged from 0.5211 (RM536) to 0.9369 (RM519) with an average 0.8217. The highest PIC value (0.9369) was obtained for RM519 followed by RM286 (0.9357). The genetic distance-based results seen in the unrooted neighbor-joining tree clustering revealed nine genetic groups. Being grouped into distant clusters and with highest genetic distance, eleven genotypes viz., Atithi dhan, Kadar chap, Pankiraj, Japanese-7, Jamri saity, Logi jota, Joba, Lada moni, Manik Mondal-2, Boilum and Brmulka-2 could be selected as potential parents for crop improvement for their distinctive characters. Panchash and Parija had closest distance in the SSR based CS-Chord distance (0.000) might have same genetic background. The highest genetic dissimilarity (1.000) was found among the nineteen Aus genotypes combinations followed by the second highest (0.9778) among 94 Aus rice combinations. Whereas lowest genetic dissimilarity was found between Kala and Kalo Hizli (0.1778) followed by Holat and Holae (0.2667). This information will be useful in the selection of diverse parents, background selection during backcross breeding programs and assist in broadening germplasm-based rice breeding programs in the near future.SAARC J. Agri., 15(1): 123-137 (2017)
The Performance and Fouling Control of Submerged Hollow Fiber (HF) Systems: A Review
Authors: Akhondi Ebrahim , Zamani Farhad , Tng Keng , Leslie Gregory , Krantz William , Fane Anthony , Chew Jia
Published: July 2017

The submerged membrane filtration concept is well-established for low-pressure microfiltration (MF) and ultrafiltration (UF) applications in the water industry, and has become a mainstream technology for surface-water treatment, pretreatment prior to reverse osmosis (RO), and membrane bioreactors (MBRs). Compared to submerged flat sheet (FS) membranes, submerged hollow fiber (HF) membranes are more common due to their advantages of higher packing density, the ability to induce movement by mechanisms such as bubbling, and the feasibility of backwashing. In view of the importance of submerged HF processes, this review aims to provide a comprehensive landscape of the current state-of-the-art systems, to serve as a guide for further improvements in submerged HF membranes and their applications. The topics covered include recent developments in submerged hollow fiber membrane systems, the challenges and developments in fouling-control methods, and treatment protocols for membrane permeability recovery. The highlighted research opportunities include optimizing the various means to manipulate the hydrodynamics for fouling mitigation, developing online monitoring devices, and extending the submerged HF concept beyond filtration.
Using a Molecular Dynamics Simulation to Investigate Asphalt Nano-Cracking under External Loading Conditions
Authors: Hou Yue , Wang Linbing , Wang Dawei , Qu Xin , Wu Jiangfeng
Published: July 2017

Recent research shows that macro-scale cracking in asphalt binder may originate from its intrinsic defects at the nano-scale. In this paper, a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to evaluate the nucleation of natural defects in asphalt. The asphalt microstructure was modeled using an ensemble of three different types of molecules to represent a constituent species: asphaltenes, naphthene aromatics and saturates, where the weight proportion of 20:60:20 was used to create an asphalt-like ensemble of molecules. Tension force was then applied on the molecular boundaries to study the crack initiation and propagation. It was discovered that the natural distribution of atoms at microscale would affect the intrinsic defects in asphalt and further influence crack initiation and propagation in asphalt.
Redesign of a Rural Building in a Heritage Site in Italy: Towards the Net Zero Energy Target
Authors: Cellura Maurizio , Ciulla Giuseppina , Guarino Francesco , Longo Sonia
Published: July 2017

In order to achieve the ambitious objective of decarbonising the economy, it is mandatory, especially in Europe and in Italy, to include the retrofitting of existing buildings. In a country where a large share of existing buildings have heritage value, it is important to design effective retrofit solutions also in historical buildings. In this context, the paper describes the experience of re-design of an existing rural building located in Sicily, inside the ancient Greeks' “Valley of the Temples”. An energy audit was performed on the building, and its energy uses were thoroughly investigated. A building model was developed in the TRNSYS environment and its performances validated. The validated model was used for redesign studies aimed towards the achievement of the Net Zero Energy Building target. The best performing solutions to be applied to a case study like the Sanfilippo House were those regarding the management of the building, as in the case of the natural ventilation and the energy systems setpoints, that would allow a large impact (up to 10% reductions in energy uses) on the energy performances of the building with no invasiveness, and those with very limited invasiveness and high impact on the energy efficiency of the building, as in the lighting scenario (up to 30% energy uses reduction). The most invasive actions can only be justified in the case of high energy savings, as in the case of the insulation of the roof, otherwise they should be disregarded.
Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension in the Newborn
Authors: Mathew Bobby , Lakshminrusimha Satyan
Published: July 2017

Persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) is a syndrome of failed circulatory adaptation at birth due to delay or impairment in the normal fall in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) that occurs following birth. The fetus is in a state of physiological pulmonary hypertension. In utero, the fetus receives oxygenated blood from the placenta through the umbilical vein. At birth, following initiation of respiration, there is a sudden precipitous fall in the PVR and an increase of systemic vascular resistance (SVR) due to the removal of the placenta from circulation. There is dramatic increase in pulmonary blood flow with a decrease in, and later reversal of shunts at the foramen ovale and ductus arteriosus. The failure of this normal physiological pulmonary transition leads to the syndrome of PPHN. PPHN presents with varying degrees of hypoxemic respiratory failure. Survival of infants with PPHN has significantly improved with the use of gentle ventilation, surfactant and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO). PPHN is associated with significant mortality and morbidity among survivors. Newer agents that target different enzymatic pathways in the vascular smooth muscle are in different stages of development and testing. Further research using these agents is likely to further reduce morbidity and mortality associated with PPHN.
Predicting Impact of Climate Change on Water Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen in Tropical Rivers
Authors: Danladi Bello Al-Amin , Hashim Noor , Mohd Haniffah Mohd
Published: July 2017

Predicting the impact of climate change and human activities on river systems is imperative for effective management of aquatic ecosystems. Unique information can be derived that is critical to the survival of aquatic species under dynamic environmental conditions. Therefore, the response of a tropical river system under climate and land-use changes from the aspects of water temperature and dissolved oxygen concentration were evaluated. Nine designed projected climate change scenarios and three future land-use scenarios were integrated into the Hydrological Simulation Program FORTRAN (HSPF) model to determine the impact of climate change and land-use on water temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration using basin-wide simulation of river system in Malaysia. The model performance coefficients showed a good correlation between simulated and observed streamflow, water temperature, and DO concentration in a monthly time step simulation. The Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency for streamflow was 0.88 for the calibration period and 0.82 for validation period. For water temperature and DO concentration, data from three stations were calibrated and the Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency for both water temperature and DO ranged from 0.53 to 0.70. The output of the calibrated model under climate change scenarios show that increased rainfall and air temperature do not affects DO concentration and water temperature as much as the condition of a decrease in rainfall and increase in air temperature. The regression model on changes in streamflow, DO concentration, and water temperature under the climate change scenarios illustrates that scenarios that produce high to moderate streamflow, produce small predicted change in water temperatures and DO concentrations compared with the scenarios that produced a low streamflow. It was observed that climate change slightly affects the relationship between water temperatures and DO concentrations in the tropical rivers that we include in this study. This study demonstrates the potential impact of climate and future land-use changes on tropical rivers and how they might affect the future ecological systems. Most rivers in suburban areas will be ecologically unsuitable to some aquatic species. In comparison, rivers surrounded by agricultural and forestlands are less affected by the projected climate and land-uses changes. The results from this study provide a basis in which resource management and mitigation actions can be developed.
Ferroelectricity in Simple Binary Crystals
Authors: Onodera Akira , Takesada Masaki
Published: July 2017

The origin of ferroelectricity in doped binary crystals, Pb1−xGexTe, Cd1−xZnxTe, Zn1−xLixO, and Hf1−xZrxO2 is discussed, while no binary ferroelectrics have been reported except for two crystals, HCl and HBr. The ferroelectricity is induced only in doped crystals, which shows an importance of electronic modification in chemical bonds by dopants. The phenomenological and microscopic treatments are given for the appearance of ferroelectric activity. The discovery of ferroelectricity in binary crystals such as ZnO and HfO2 is of high interest in fundamental science and also in application for complementary metal–oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology.
Non-Destructive In Situ Study of Plastic Deformations in Diamonds: X-ray Diffraction Topography and µFTIR Mapping of Two Super Deep Diamond Crystals from São Luiz (Juina, Brazil)
Authors: Agrosì Giovanna , Tempesta Gioacchino , Della Ventura Giancarlo , Cestelli Guidi Mariangela , Hutchison Mark , Nimis Paolo , Nestola Fabrizio
Published: July 2017

Diamonds from Juina, Brazil, are well-known examples of superdeep diamond crystals formed under sublithospheric conditions and evidence would indicate their origins lie as deep as the Earth’s mantle transition zone and the Lower Mantle. Detailed characterization of these minerals and of inclusions trapped within them may thus provide precious minero-petrogenetic information on their growth history in these inaccessible environments. With the aim of studying non-destructively the structural defects in the entire crystalline volume, two diamond samples from this locality, labelled JUc4 and BZ270, respectively, were studied in transmission mode by means of X-ray Diffraction Topography (XRDT) and micro Fourier Transform InfraRed Spectroscopy (µFTIR). The combined use of these methods shows a good fit between the mapping of spatial distribution of extended defects observed on the topographic images and the µFTIR maps corresponding to the concentration of N and H point defects. The results obtained show that both samples are affected by plastic deformation. In particular, BZ270 shows a lower content of nitrogen and higher deformation, and actually consists of different, slightly misoriented grains that contain sub-grains with a rounded-elongated shape. These features are commonly associated with deformation processes by solid-state diffusion creep under high pressure and high temperature.
On Entropy Test for Conditionally Heteroscedastic Location-Scale Time Series Models
Authors: Lee Sangyeol , Kim Minjo
Published: July 2017

This study considers the goodness of fit test for a class of conditionally heteroscedastic location-scale time series models. For this task, we develop an entropy-type goodness of fit test based on residuals. To examine the asymptotic behavior of the test, we first investigate the asymptotic property of the residual empirical process and then derive the limiting null distribution of the entropy test.
On the Reliability Function of Variable-Rate Slepian-Wolf Coding
Authors: Chen Jun , He Da-ke , Jagmohan Ashish , Lastras-Montaño Luis
Published: July 2017

The reliability function of variable-rate Slepian-Wolf coding is linked to the reliability function of channel coding with constant composition codes, through which computable lower and upper bounds are derived. The bounds coincide at rates close to the Slepian-Wolf limit, yielding a complete characterization of the reliability function in that rate region. It is shown that variable-rate Slepian-Wolf codes can significantly outperform fixed-rate Slepian-Wolf codes in terms of rate-error tradeoff. Variable-rate Slepian-Wolf coding with rate below the Slepian-Wolf limit is also analyzed. In sharp contrast with fixed-rate Slepian-Wolf codes for which the correct decoding probability decays to zero exponentially fast if the rate is below the Slepian-Wolf limit, the correct decoding probability of variable-rate Slepian-Wolf codes can be bounded away from zero.
In Vitro Tetraploid Induction from Leaf and Petiole Explants of Hybrid Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua × Liquidambar formosana)
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Zewei , Qi Shuaizheng , Wang Xiaoqi , Zhao Jian , Zhang Jinfeng , Li Bailian , Zhang Yadong , Liu Xuezeng , Yuan Wei
Published: July 2017

Liquidambar is an important forestry species used to generate many commercial wood products, such as plywood. Inducing artificial polyploidy is an effective method to encourage genetic enhancements in forestry breeding. This report presents the first in vitro protocol for the induction of genus Liquidambar tetraploids based on the established in vitro regeneration system of hybrid sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua × Liquidambar formosana). The leaves and petioles from three genotypes were pre-cultured in woody plant medium (WPM) supplemented with 0.1 mg/L thidiazuron (TDZ), 0.8 mg/L benzyladenine (BA), and 0.1 mg/L α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) for a variable number of days (4, 6 or 8 days), and exposed to varying concentrations of colchicine (120, 160, 200 mg/L) for 3, 4 or 5 days; the four factors were investigated using an orthogonal experimental design. Adventitious shoots were rooted in 1/2 WPM medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/L indole butyric acid (IBA) and 0.1 mg/L NAA. The ploidy level was assessed using flow cytometry and chromosome counting. Four tetraploids and nine mixoploids were obtained from the leaves. Pre-treatment of the leaves for 8 days and exposure to 200 mg/L colchicine for 3 days led to the most efficient tetraploid induction. Producing 11 tetraploids and five mixoploids from petioles, the best tetraploid induction treatment for petioles was almost the same as that with the leaves, except that pre-culturing was required for only 6 days. In total, 15 tetraploids were obtained with these treatments. This study described a technique for the induction of tetraploid sweetgum from the leaves or petioles of parental material. Based on the success of polyploid breeding in other tree species, the production of hybrid sweetgum allotetraploids constitutes a promising strategy for the promotion of future forestry breeding.
A Model for the Prediction of the Tensile Strength of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Members, Before and After Cracking
Authors: Vougioukas Emmanouil , Papadatou Maria
Published: July 2017

The tensile behavior of concrete or mortar plays an important role for delaying the formation and propagation of cracks, and also for upgrading the bearing capacity of existing concrete and masonry constructions. Although the presence of steel fibers is known to improve, often considerably, the tensile capacity of concrete members, methods for the quantification of this improvement are still limited. For this reason, a model has been developed for the prediction of the tensile strength of steel fiber-reinforced concrete members, as crack opening occurs. Given the geometry and the physical characteristics of reinforced concrete member and fibers, the model predicts: (1) the number of fibers crossing a crack’s surface; (2) the distribution of these fibers in terms of (i) the angle a fiber forms with the crack surface (fiber inclination) and (ii) the embedded length of the fiber at both sides of the surface; (3) resistance to crack opening provided by each fiber, in relation to its position and inclination. On the results of the results obtained, the influence of the number of fibers on the reduction of crack widening in concrete or mortar is remarkable and can be estimated with satisfactory precision. In upgrading existing concrete and masonry constructions, this tensile behavior is found to play important role.
High-Energy Polarization: Scientific Potential and Model Predictions
Authors: Zhang Haocheng
Published: July 2017

Understanding magnetic field strength and morphology is very important for studying astrophysical jets. Polarization signatures have been a standard way to probe the jet magnetic field. Radio and optical polarization monitoring programs have been very successful in studying the space- and time-dependent jet polarization behaviors. A new era is now arriving with high-energy polarimetry. X-ray and γ -ray polarimetry can probe the most active jet regions with the most efficient particle acceleration. This new opportunity will make a strong impact on our current understanding of jet systems. This paper summarizes the scientific potential and current model predictions for X-ray and γ -ray polarization of astrophysical jets. In particular, we discuss the advantages of using high-energy polarimetry to constrain several important problems in the jet physics, including the jet radiation mechanisms, particle acceleration mechanisms, and jet kinetic and magnetic energy composition. Here we take blazars as a study case, but the general approach can be similarly applied to other astrophysical jets. We conclude that by comparing combined magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), particle transport, and polarization-dependent radiation transfer simulations with multi-wavelength time-dependent radiation and polarization observations, we will obtain the strongest constraints and the best knowledge of jet physics.
Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review
Authors: Hansen Margaret M. , Jones Reo , Tocchini Kirsten
Published: July 2017

Background: Current literature supports the comprehensive health benefits of exposure to nature and green environments on human systems. The aim of this state-of-the-art review is to elucidate empirical research conducted on the physiological and psychological effects of Shinrin-Yoku (or Forest Bathing) in transcontinental Japan and China. Furthermore, we aim to encourage healthcare professionals to conduct longitudinal research in Western cultures regarding the clinically therapeutic effects of Shinrin-Yoku and, for healthcare providers/students to consider practicing Shinrin-Yoku to decrease undue stress and potential burnout. Methods: A thorough review was conducted to identify research published with an initial open date range and then narrowing the collection to include papers published from 2007 to 2017. Electronic databases (PubMed, PubMed Central, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Scopus) and snowball references were used to cull papers that evaluated the use of Shinrin-Yoku for various populations in diverse settings. Results: From the 127 papers initially culled using the Boolean phrases: “Shinrin-yoku” AND/OR “forest bathing” AND/OR “nature therapy”, 64 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in this summary review and then divided into “physiological,” “psychological,” “sensory metrics” and “frameworks” sub-groups. Conclusions: Human health benefits associated with the immersion in nature continue to be currently researched. Longitudinal research, conducted worldwide, is needed to produce new evidence of the relationships associated with Shinrin-Yoku and clinical therapeutic effects. Nature therapy as a health-promotion method and potential universal health model is implicated for the reduction of reported modern-day “stress-state” and “technostress.”.
High Salt Tolerance of a Bradyrhizobium Strain and Its Promotion of the Growth of Stylosanthes guianensis
Authors: Dong Rongshu , Zhang Jie , Huan Hengfu , Bai Changjun , Chen Zhijian , Liu Guodao
Published: July 2017

Salinity is a serious limiting factor for the growth of rhizobia. Some rhizobia are tolerant to salt stress and promote plant growth, but the mechanisms underlying these effects are poorly characterized. The growth responses and osmoprotectants in four Bradyrhizobium strains were examined under salt stress in this study. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry were conducted to investigate protein profiles in rhizobia exposed to salt stress. Subsequently, salt tolerance in stylo (Stylosanthes guianensis) inoculated with rhizobia was further detected in hydroponics. Results showed that the Bradyrhizobium strain RJS9-2 exhibited higher salt tolerance than the other three Bradyrhizobium strains. RJS9-2 was able to grow at 0.35 M NaCl treatment, while the other three Bradyrhizobium strains did not grow at 0.1 M NaCl treatment. Salt stress induced IAA production, and accumulation of proline, betaine, ectoine, and trehalose was observed in RJS9-2 but not in PN13-1. Proteomics analysis identified 14 proteins regulated by salt stress in RJS9-2 that were mainly related to the ABC transporter, stress response, and protein metabolism. Furthermore, under saline conditions, the nodule number, plant dry weight, and N concentration in stylo plants inoculated with RJS9-2 were higher than those in plants inoculated with PN13-1. These results suggest that the tolerance of RJS9-2 to salt stress may be achieved by the coordination of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, osmoprotectant accumulation, and protein expression, thus promoting stylo growth.
Immuno-Modulatory and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Dihydrogracilin A, a Terpene Derived from the Marine Sponge Dendrilla membranosa
Authors: Ciaglia Elena , Malfitano Anna , Laezza Chiara , Fontana Angelo , Nuzzo Genoveffa , Cutignano Adele , Abate Mario , Pelin Marco , Sosa Silvio , Bifulco Maurizio , Gazzerro Patrizia
Published: July 2017

We assessed the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of 9,11-dihydrogracilin A (DHG), a molecule derived from the Antarctic marine sponge Dendrilla membranosa. We used in vitro and in vivo approaches to establish DHG properties. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and human keratinocytes cell line (HaCaT cells) were used as in vitro system, whereas a model of murine cutaneous irritation was adopted for in vivo studies. We observed that DHG reduces dose dependently the proliferative response and viability of mitogen stimulated PBMC. In addition, DHG induces apoptosis as revealed by AnnexinV staining and downregulates the phosphorylation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) and extracellular signal–regulated kinase (ERK) at late time points. These effects were accompanied by down-regulation of interleukin 6 (IL-6) production, slight decrease of IL-10 and no inhibition of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) secretion. To assess potential properties of DHG in epidermal inflammation we used HaCaT cells; this compound reduces cell growth, viability and migration. Finally, we adopted for the in vivo study the croton oil-induced ear dermatitis murine model of inflammation. Of note, topical use of DHG significantly decreased mouse ear edema. These results suggest that DHG exerts anti-inflammatory effects and its anti-edema activity in vivo strongly supports its potential therapeutic application in inflammatory cutaneous diseases.
Dietary Bioactive Diallyl Trisulfide in Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Puccinelli Michael , Stan Silvia
Published: July 2017

Bioactive dietary agents have been shown to regulate multiple cancer hallmark pathways. Epidemiologic studies have linked consumption of Allium vegetables, such as garlic and onions, to decreased incidence of cancer. Diallyl trisulfide (DATS), a bioactive compound derived from Allium vegetables, has been investigated as an anti-cancer and chemopreventive agent. Preclinical studies provide ample evidence that DATS regulates multiple cancer hallmark pathways including cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. DATS has been shown to arrest cancer cells at multiple stages of the cell cycle with the G2/M arrest being the most widely reported. Additionally, increased pro-apoptotic capacity as a result of regulating intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathway components has been widely reported following DATS treatment. Invasion, migration, and angiogenesis represent emerging targets of DATS and support its anti-cancer properties. This review summarizes DATS mechanisms of action as an anti-cancer and chemopreventive agent. These studies provide rationale for future investigation into its use as a cancer chemopreventive agent.
Host Specificity of Epiplema albida: A Potential Biological Control Agent for Sri Lankan Privet in the Mascarene Islands
Authors: Shaw Richard , Cock Matthew
Published: July 2017

Epiplema albida (Hampson) (Lepidoptera: Uraniidae, Epipleminae) from Sri Lanka, was studied to assess its safety for use as a biological control agent for Sri Lankan privet, Ligustrum robustum subsp. walkeri (Oleaceae) in La Réunion and other Mascarene Islands. Larval no-choice feeding tests using newly hatched larvae, larval development tests, and multiple choice oviposition tests were used. Adult females of E. albida are shown to have highly selective oviposition behaviour and the species is physiologically restricted to very few hosts for feeding and development. The risk to key test plants in La Réunion is minimal, so this species can be considered for use as a biological control agent there, but would need further evaluation for potential use elsewhere.
South Florida’s Encroachment of the Sea and Environmental Transformation over the 21st Century
Authors: Park Joseph , Stabenau Erik , Redwine Jed , Kotun Kevin
Published: July 2017

South Florida encompasses a dynamic confluence of urban and natural ecosystems strongly connected to ocean and freshwater hydrologic forcings. Low land elevation, flat topography and highly transmissive aquifers place both communities at the nexus of environmental and ecological transformation driven by rising sea level. Based on a local sea level rise projection, we examine regional inundation impacts and employ hydrographic records in Florida Bay and the southern Everglades to assess water level exceedance dynamics and landscape-relevant tipping points. Intrinsic mode functions of water levels across the coastal interface are used to gauge the relative influence and time-varying transformation potential of estuarine and freshwater marshes into a marine-dominated environment with the introduction of a Marsh-to-Ocean transformation index (MOI).
Characterization of Gallium Indium Phosphide and Progress of Aluminum Gallium Indium Phosphide System Quantum-Well Laser Diode
Authors: Hamada Hiroki
Published: July 2017

Highly ordered gallium indium phosphide layers with the low bandgap have been successfully grown on the (100) GaAs substrates, the misorientation toward [01−1] direction, using the low-pressure metal organic chemical vapor deposition method. It is found that the optical properties of the layers are same as those of the disordered ones, essentially different from the ordered ones having two orientations towards [1−11] and [11−1] directions grown on (100) gallium arsenide substrates, which were previously reported. The bandgap at 300 K is 1.791 eV. The value is the smallest ever reported, to our knowledge. The high performance transverse stabilized AlGaInP laser diodes with strain compensated quantum well structure, which is developed in 1992, have been successfully obtained by controlling the misorientation angle and directions of GaAs substrates. The structure is applied to quantum dots laser diodes. This paper also describes the development history of the quantum well and the quantum dots laser diodes, and their future prospects.
Development of 2-Methoxyhuprine as Novel Lead for Alzheimer’s Disease Therapy
Authors: Mezeiova Eva , Korabecny Jan , Sepsova Vendula , Hrabinova Martina , Jost Petr , Muckova Lubica , Kucera Tomas , Dolezal Rafael , Misik Jan , Spilovska Katarina , Pham Ngoc , Pokrievkova Lucia , Roh Jaroslav , Jun Daniel , Soukup Ondrej , Kaping Daniel , Kuca Kamil
Published: July 2017

Tacrine (THA), the first clinically effective acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor and the first approved drug for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), was withdrawn from the market due to its side effects, particularly its hepatotoxicity. Nowadays, THA serves as a valuable scaffold for the design of novel agents potentially applicable for AD treatment. One such compound, namely 7-methoxytacrine (7-MEOTA), exhibits an intriguing profile, having suppressed hepatotoxicity and concomitantly retaining AChE inhibition properties. Another interesting class of AChE inhibitors represents Huprines, designed by merging two fragments of the known AChE inhibitors—THA and (−)-huperzine A. Several members of this compound family are more potent human AChE inhibitors than the parent compounds. The most promising are so-called huprines X and Y. Here, we report the design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and in silico studies of 2-methoxyhuprine that amalgamates structural features of 7-MEOTA and huprine Y in one molecule.
Minimum Dietary Diversity Scores for Women Indicate Micronutrient Adequacy and Food Insecurity Status in South African Towns
Authors: Chakona Gamuchirai , Shackleton Charlie
Published: July 2017

The lack of dietary diversity is a severe problem experienced by most poor households globally. In particular; women of reproductive age (WRA) are at high risk of inadequate intake of micronutrients resulting from diets dominated by starchy staples. The present study considered the diets, dietary diversity, and food security of women aged 15–49 years along the rural-urban continuum in three South African towns situated along an agro-ecological gradient. A 48 h dietary recall was conducted across two seasons with 554 women from rural, peri-urban, and urban locations of Richards Bay, Dundee, and Harrismith. Minimum Dietary Diversity for WRA (MDD-W) were calculated and a dichotomous indicator based on a set of ten food groups was used to determine if women had consumed at least five food groups the previous 48 h to achieve minimum dietary intake for women. The mean (±sd) MDD-W for Richards Bay (3.78 ± 0.07) was significantly higher than at Dundee (3.21 ± 0.08) and Harrismith (3.36 ± 0.07). Food security and MDD-W were significantly higher in urban locations than in peri-urban or rural ones. There was lower dependence on food purchasing in Richards Bay compared to Dundee and Harrismith. The majority of women in Richards Bay practiced subsistence agriculture, produced a surplus for sale, and collected wild foods which improved dietary intake and food security. The peri-urban populations had limited dietary intake and were more food insecure because of high levels of poverty, unemployment, and lack of land. Peri-urban dwellers are therefore more sensitive to changes in incomes and food prices because they lack safety nets to absorb income or price shocks as they purchase more, rather than growing their own food. This compromises dietary diversity as they have limited access to diverse foods.
Benefits of Lactoferrin, Osteopontin and Milk Fat Globule Membranes for Infants
Authors: Demmelmair Hans , Prell Christine , Timby Niklas , Lönnerdal Bo
Published: July 2017

The provision of essential and non-essential amino acids for breast-fed infants is the major function of milk proteins. In addition, breast-fed infants might benefit from bioactivities of milk proteins, which are exhibited in the intestine during the digestive phase and by absorption of intact proteins or derived peptides. For lactoferrin, osteopontin and milk fat globule membrane proteins/lipids, which have not until recently been included in substantial amounts in infant formulas, in vitro experiments and animal models provide a convincing base of evidence for bioactivities, which contribute to the protection of the infant from pathogens, improve nutrient absorption, support the development of the immune system and provide components for optimal neurodevelopment. Technologies have become available to obtain these compounds from cow´s milk and the bovine compounds also exhibit bioactivities in humans. Randomized clinical trials with experimental infant formulas incorporating lactoferrin, osteopontin, or milk fat globule membranes have already provided some evidence for clinical benefits. This review aims to compare findings from laboratory and animal experiments with outcomes of clinical studies. There is good justification from basic science and there are promising results from clinical studies for beneficial effects of lactoferrin, osteopontin and the milk fat globule membrane complex of proteins and lipids. Further studies should ideally be adequately powered to investigate effects on clinically relevant endpoints in healthy term infants.
Community Pharmacists’ Knowledge Regarding Donepezil Averse Effects and Self-Care Recommendations for Insomnia for Persons with AD
Authors: Marvanova Marketa , Henkel Paul
Published: July 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) impacts millions of individuals worldwide. Since no cure is currently available, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are symptomatic therapy. This study assessed community pharmacists’ knowledge regarding donepezil adverse effects (AEs) and self-care recommendations for insomnia management for persons with AD treated with rivastigmine. This is a cross-sectional, standardized telephone survey of community pharmacists (n = 862) in three study areas: West Virginia, North Dakota/South Dakota, and Southern Oregon/Northern California. Pharmacists’ degree, sex, and pharmacists’ AD-related knowledge were assessed. In-stock availability of donepezil and rivastigmine formulations was assessed. Analyses were performed using Stata 10.1. Only 31.4% pharmacists were able to name ≥2 donepezil AEs. Only four donepezil AEs were named by at least 13% of pharmacists: nausea (36.1%), dizziness (25.1%), diarrhea (15.0%), and vomiting (13.9%). All other AEs were named by fewer than 7% of respondents. Only 62.9% of pharmacists (n = 542) provided appropriate recommendations: melatonin (40.3%), referral to physician (22.0%), or sleep hygiene (0.6%). Over 12% of pharmacists (n = 107) provided inappropriate recommendations (anticholinergic agent or valerian root) and 21.5% of pharmacists were unable to provide any recommendation. We identified significant gaps in community pharmacists’ knowledge regarding donepezil AEs and non-prescription insomnia recommendation needing significant improvement to ensure high-quality AD-related care.
Continental Shelf-Scale Passive Acoustic Detection and Characterization of Diesel-Electric Ships Using a Coherent Hydrophone Array
Authors: Huang Wei , Wang Delin , Garcia Heriberto , Godø Olav , Ratilal Purnima
Published: July 2017

The passive ocean acoustic waveguide remote sensing (POAWRS) technique is employed to detect and characterize the underwater sound radiated from three scientific research and fishing vessels received at long ranges on a large-aperture densely-sampled horizontal coherent hydrophone array. The sounds radiated from the research vessel (RV) Delaware II in the Gulf of Maine, and the RV Johan Hjort and the fishing vessel (FV) Artus in the Norwegian Sea are found to be dominated by distinct narrowband tonals and cyclostationary signals in the 150 Hz to 2000 Hz frequency range. The source levels of these signals are estimated by correcting the received pressure levels for transmission losses modeled using a calibrated parabolic equation-based acoustic propagation model for random range-dependent ocean waveguides. The probability of the detection region for the most prominent signal radiated by each ship is estimated and shown to extend over areas spanning roughly 200 km in diameter when employing a coherent hydrophone array. The current standard procedure for quantifying ship-radiated sound source levels via one-third octave bandwidth intensity averaging smoothes over the prominent tonals radiated by a ship that can stand 10 to 30 dB above the local broadband level, which may lead to inaccurate or incorrect assessments of the impact of ship-radiated sound.
Cupula-Inspired Hyaluronic Acid-Based Hydrogel Encapsulation to Form Biomimetic MEMS Flow Sensors
Authors: Kottapalli Ajay , Bora Meghali , Kanhere Elgar , Asadnia Mohsen , Miao Jianmin , Triantafyllou Michael
Published: July 2017

Blind cavefishes are known to detect objects through hydrodynamic vision enabled by arrays of biological flow sensors called neuromasts. This work demonstrates the development of a MEMS artificial neuromast sensor that features a 3D polymer hair cell that extends into the ambient flow. The hair cell is monolithically fabricated at the center of a 2 μm thick silicon membrane that is photo-patterned with a full-bridge bias circuit. Ambient flow variations exert a drag force on the hair cell, which causes a displacement of the sensing membrane. This in turn leads to the resistance imbalance in the bridge circuit generating a voltage output. Inspired by the biological neuromast, a biomimetic synthetic hydrogel cupula is incorporated on the hair cell. The morphology, swelling behavior, porosity and mechanical properties of the hyaluronic acid hydrogel are characterized through rheology and nanoindentation techniques. The sensitivity enhancement in the sensor output due to the material and mechanical contributions of the micro-porous hydrogel cupula is investigated through experiments.
Portable Multispectral Colorimeter for Metallic Ion Detection and Classification
Authors: Braga Mauro , Jaimes Ruth , Borysow Walter , Gomes Osmar , Salcedo Walter
Published: July 2017

This work deals with a portable device system applied to detect and classify different metallic ions as proposed and developed, aiming its application for hydrological monitoring systems such as rivers, lakes and groundwater. Considering the system features, a portable colorimetric system was developed by using a multispectral optoelectronic sensor. All the technology of quantification and classification of metallic ions using optoelectronic multispectral sensors was fully integrated in the embedded hardware FPGA ( Field Programmable Gate Array) technology and software based on virtual instrumentation (NI LabView®). The system draws on an indicative colorimeter by using the chromogen reagent of 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN). The results obtained with the signal processing and pattern analysis using the method of the linear discriminant analysis, allows excellent results during detection and classification of Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II), Cu(II), Fe(III) and Ni(II) ions, with almost the same level of performance as for those obtained from the Ultravioled and visible (UV-VIS) spectrophotometers of high spectral resolution.
Worldwide Research on Energy Efficiency and Sustainability in Public Buildings
Authors: De la Cruz-Lovera Carmen , Perea-Moreno Alberto-Jesús , De la Cruz-Fernández José-Luis , Alvarez-Bermejo José , Manzano-Agugliaro Francisco
Published: July 2017

The present study details the significant contribution that different international institutions have made to the field of sustainability and energy efficiency, with a focus on public buildings. This has been achieved by making use of the database Scopus, by applying bibliometric techniques and by analyzing the contents of articles published from 1976 to 2016. All the materials included in the analysis have been reported from Scopus. Several key aspects of the publications have been considered such as document type, language, subject area, journal type and keywords. Sustainable Development, Sustainability, Energy Conservation, Energy Efficiency and Buildings have been verified as the most used keywords. The obtained contributions have been classified geographically and by institution, with the United States, the United Kingdom, China, Australia and Italy being the leading research countries and Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Delft University of Technology and Tsinghua University the top contributing institutions. The most active categories in those fields are engineering, social sciences and environmental issues in that order. It can be assumed that the study of sustainability and energy efficiency across all its dimensions is of great interest for the scientific community. The global environmental issue has led many countries to incorporate a wide range of Energy Efficiency (EE) strategies in order to reduce energy consumption in public buildings, a highly valued aspect by European Union energy labelling.
Distribution of Antennal Olfactory and Non-Olfactory Sensilla in Different Species of Bees
Authors: Frasnelli Elisa , Vallortigara Giorgio
Published: July 2017

Several species of social bees exhibit population-level lateralization in learning odors and recalling olfactory memories. Honeybees Apis mellifera and Australian social stingless bees Trigona carbonaria and Austroplebeia australis are better able to recall short- and long-term memory through the right and left antenna respectively, whereas non-social mason bees Osmia rufa are not lateralized in this way. In honeybees, this asymmetry may be partially explained by a morphological asymmetry at the peripheral level—the right antenna has 5% more olfactory sensilla than the left antenna. Here we looked at the possible correlation between the number of the antennal sensilla and the behavioral asymmetry in the recall of olfactory memories in A. australis and O. rufa. We found no population-level asymmetry in the antennal sensilla distribution in either species examined. This suggests that the behavioral asymmetry present in the stingless bees A. australis may not depend on lateral differences in antennal receptor numbers.
L’indépendance de l’Autorité de sûreté nucléaire, des progrès à envisager
Authors: Delzangles Hubert
Published: July 2017

The Nuclear Safety Authority is an independent administrative body. Nevertheless, functional and organic independence from operators and government can have different degrees. Having a look on the actual context, where government holds a large part of the main nuclear French operators, independence has to be maximal in order to avoid any conflict of interest that could attempt to nuclear safety. In a global point of view, it is possible to think about the risks or the benefits of the institutionalized cooperation between national regulators on the necessary independence of the Nuclear Safety Authority.
'Sectarianism' and Its Discontents in the Study of the Middle East
Authors: Haddad Fanar
Published: July 2017

This article offers a critical examination of the vocabulary associated with the study of 'sectarianism' in the Middle East. It surveys Arabic- and English-language works on 'sectarianism' to illustrate how the term's lack of definition has allowed it to be used in contradictory ways
that render it, not simply meaningless, but distortive to our understanding of the region. In addition, the term 'sectarianism', with its inescapably negative connotations, has been used as a tool to neutralize political dissent and stigmatize people's religious identity and otherwise legitimate
acts of expression and mobilization.
Grip on complexity in chemical reaction networks
Authors: Wong Albert S Y , Huck Wilhelm T S
Published: July 2017

A new discipline of “systems chemistry” is emerging, which aims to capture the complexity observed in natural systems within a synthetic chemical framework. Living systems rely on complex networks of chemical reactions to control the concentration of molecules in space and time. Despite the enormous complexity in biological networks, it is possible to identify network motifs that lead to functional outputs such as bistability or oscillations. To truly understand how living systems function, we need a complete understanding of how chemical reaction networks (CRNs) create function. We propose the development of a bottom-up approach to design and construct CRNs where we can follow the influence of single chemical entities on the properties of the network as a whole. Ultimately, this approach should allow us to not only understand such complex networks but also to guide and control their behavior.
Spectroscopy of 10 γ-Ray BL Lac Objects at High Redshift
Authors: Paiano Simona , Landoni Marco , Falomo Renato , Treves Aldo , Scarpa Riccardo
Published: July 2017

We present optical spectra with high signal-to-noise ratio of 10 BL Lac objects detected at GeV energies by the Fermi satellite (3FGL catalog), which previous observations suggested are at relatively high redshift. The new observations, obtained at the 10 m Gran Telescopio Canarias, allowed us to find the redshift for J0814.5+2943 (z = 0.703), and we can set a spectroscopic lower limit for J0008.0+4713 (z > 1.659) and J1107.7+0222 (z > 1.0735) on the basis of Mg ii intervening absorption features. In addition we confirm the redshifts for J0505.5+0416 (z = 0.423) and J1450+5200 (z > 2.470). Finally we contradict the previous z estimates for five objects (J0049.7+0237, J0243.5+7119, J0802.0+1005, J1109.4+2411, and J2116.1+3339).
Numerical Simulations of Collisional Cascades at the Roche Limits of White Dwarf Stars
Authors: Kenyon Scott J. , Bromley Benjamin C.
Published: July 2017

We consider the long-term collisional and dynamical evolution of solid material orbiting in a narrow annulus near the Roche limit of a white dwarf. With orbital velocities of 300 , systems of solids with initial eccentricitygenerate a collisional cascade where objects with radiiare ground to dust. This process converts 1–100 km asteroids into 1 μm particles in 102−106yr. Throughout this evolution, the swarm maintains an initially large vertical scale heightH. Adding solids at a rateenables the system to find an equilibrium where the mass in solids is roughly constant. This equilibrium depends onand, the radius of the largest solid added to the swarm. When ≲ 10 km, this equilibrium is stable. For larger, the mass oscillates between high and low states; the fraction of time spent in high states ranges from 100% for largeto much less than 1% for small. During high states, the stellar luminosity reprocessed by the solids is comparable to the excess infrared emission observed in many metallic line white dwarfs.