bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overview on the state of art on IAH coastal aquifer dynamics and coastal zone website
Authors: Sappa Giuseppe , Ferranti Flavia
Published: March 2019

The website of the IAH Coastal Aquifer Dynamics and Coastal Zone Management (CAD-CZM) Network, linkable at the web address www.iah-cad-czm.net, aims at improving the knowledge about coastal aquifer for supporting worldwide the assessment, development and management of water resources endangered by saltwater intrusion. The overall target of this project is promoting the development of web-GIS that gathers coastal aquifer data from different sources to assist, by the support of researchers, professionals, stakeholders and water managers to make the correct choices for the sustainable use of these precious resources. The CAD-CZM network tries to satisfy the interest expressed in the recommendations issued on different occasions by UNESCO and IAEA for studying coastal areas in the frame of joint programs in cooperation with other international agencies. The CADCZM website structure aims to collect information coming from any kind of source, as technical as scientific, and its target is to make them available in the aim of taking under control the rate of exploitation and the management of these vulnerable groundwater resources. The website organization is like that anyone could find the specific coastal zone, he is interested in gaining information, only looking for it on the google earth link, present inside the website. Once identified the area of interest, it is possible to download, if present, the specific sheet including all the information collected, checked and uploaded, by the scientific committee of the website. Starting from the analysis of a database of more than 70 coastal aquifer, reporting information about lithology, hydrogeological and geochemical characteristics, salinity sources, applied monitoring methods, management strategies, and seawater and brackish groundwater desalination technologies adopted, an updated overview of the state of the knowledge about seawater intrusion all over the world is presented.
Groundwater resources at salinisation risk: effects of climate and utilisation changes in the case of Apulian coastal aquifers (Southeastern Italy)
Authors: Casarano Domenico , Dragone Vittoria , Polemio Maurizio
Published: March 2019

Seawater intrusion is the main cause of groundwater salinisation in Italy. The largest coastal aquifers, highly vulnerable to salinisation, are in Apulia. For these aquifers, main changes in terms of climate change and utilisation are discussed together with piezometric trends, as the latter are relevant triggering factors for upconing and lateral seawater intrusion. For this purpose, time series from 1921 to 2016 concerning climate (rainfall and temperature), from 1965 to 2016 concerning groundwater availability (piezometric values), and recent periodic data on potable utilisation are discussed. Climate and groundwater availability trends at 2016 are compared with trends previously assessed, using the same dataset (1921-2001 for rainfall and temperature). The negative characteristic of rainfall 1921-2001 trend improved in the next years up to disappear in the assessment of rainfall 1921-2016 trend. Notwithstanding the improving of rainfall trend and the reduction of groundwater utilisation, both observed at 2016, the improvement of piezometric trends at 2016 is not enough to remove a prevailing decreasing trend, previously observed. The increases of temperature and effective evapotranspiration should be considered a relevant explanation of groundwater availability reduction. The consequence of these results should be quickly considered in the management of groundwater resources.
Hate and Identity
 - A social philosophical attempt to understand extremism
Authors: Gule Lars
Published: March 2019

In the analyses of extremism, the focus has mostly been on ideology and sociological – or so-called vulnerability – factors. While these factors are important the relevance and weight of emotions in the extremisation processes have not received the attention, they deserve. This article is an attempted to filling this gap. The paper explores the importance of emotions, especially strong emotions like hate and ‘ressentiment’, in establishing and reproducing the extremist identity. Methodologically this contribution emphasises a hermeneutic approach and draws on the philosophy of emotions, especially the approach of Robert C. Solomon. Empirically the article draws upon established international research and the author’s research on Islamist extremism in Norway.
Esoterogeni og aktiv forskjellsdannelse:
 Religion og identitetsskapning, i Stillehavet og andre steder
Authors: Kolshus Thorgeir
Published: March 2019

Taking its cue from Marx’ and Weber’s grand theorizing, a key narrative in Western modernity has been the inevitable dissolution of pre-modern identities. This thesis has informed both policy making and notions of global agency, and in effect caused a particular worldview in which everyone will become more or less the same – what I refer to as the Star Trek-vision of globalized culture and values. In this article, I borrow the linguistic concept of ‘esoterogeny’, the creation of the obscure, to address whether difference, far from being coincidental, serves a more fundamental experiential purpose and consequently is actively maintained. The empirical point of departure are church fissions and denominational dynamics in the Pacific island state of Vanuatu. I argue that in an age characterized by identity politics, in which recognition and attention are scarce resources, all keen observers of social systems should expect the outcome of ever more global interaction to lead to an increase in articulations of social and cultural difference.
Reduction of Detrimental Effect of Soybean Oil in-vivo Using Watermelon White Rind Extract
Authors: El-Ghandour Hanan M.
Published: March 2019

Aim: To study the effect of white rind extract on decreasing soybean oil impact on calcium and phosphorous blood levels in vivo.

Method: Dried watermelon white rind was directed to mycotoxin and elemental determinations to assure its safe usage. Soybean oil was subjected to fatty acid and GC-MS analysis. Biological experiment was conducted using male albino rats fed diet prepared by soybean oil and supplied with aqueous watermelon white rind extract for two months’ interval period. At the end of the experiment, the calcium and phosphorus in blood were determined.

Results: The rind was free from aflatoxin and ochratoxin. Watermelon white rind aqueous extract contained iron, copper, potassium, chromium and selenium at concentration ranges of 3.4, 0.53, 45.51, 0.0142 and 0.0985 ppm, respectively.

Soybean oil had free fatty acid, peroxide value, iodine number and anisidine value of 0.43%, 13.62 meq O2/Kg, 132 and 0.7, respectively.

GC-MS analysis of soy oil ascertained the presence of twenty-four compounds: linoleic acid, methyl ester (25.27%), monensin (15.75%), elaidic acid (9.24%), nonadecanoic acid, methyl ester (7.04%), cis-13-eicosenoic acid (4.92%), cis-vaccenic acid (4.68%), linoleic acid (4.67%), palmitoleic acid (4.46%), 9-tetradecenal (4.42%) and cysteine (4.18%)were the most predominant.

Fatty acid profile of the oil showed that the ratio of saturated fatty acid to unsaturated fatty acids was 1:5.

Conclusion: Rats fed diet prepared by soybean oil had a decreased calcium level in comparison with negative control (p<0.05). Supplementation with watermelon white rind aqueous extract rendered calcium level to normal status as negative control. Phosphorus level wasn’t affected by soya oil.
Nutrition and Physical Activities in the Schools: A Qualitative Study of Children Perceptions in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Ahmad Siti Rohaiza , Schubert Lisa , Bush Robert
Published: March 2019

Aims: The aim of the study was to elicit opinions and attitudes towards healthy eating and  physical activity in their schools and barriers towards the activities.

Study Design: Qualitative study.

Place and Duration of Study: Primary school settings in Brunei Darussalam. Duration of the study was January 2012 – January 2013. 

Methodology: Five focus groups of primary school students in years 4, 5, and 6 were conducted at 5 selected primary schools in Brunei Darussalam. The focus group session was between 30 minutes and 45 minutes duration and was divided into two separate sections: ‘healthy eating' and ‘physical activity'. Interviews were transcribed verbatim into a word document and names were removed to ensure confidentiality and anonymity. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the collected data.

Results: Thematic analysis of the focus group discussions with children produced the following three themes: ‘healthy eating and physical activity are important for a healthy and strong body free of disease’, ‘unhealthy foods make us fat, cause diabetes and are bad for teeth’ and ,physical activity mainly related to playing together in groups.’

Conclusion: The children have a good understanding of the detrimental effect of poor diet and inactivity on physical health, but, without a supportive environment, children are faced with a significant barrier in translating their knowledge into action. The students were keen to do more fun activities such as sports activities in the school but were hindered by the availability of time, equipment and safety within the school compound.
Food Derived Bioactive Peptides for Health Enhancement and Management of Some Chronic Diseases
Authors: Ogori A. F. , Girgih A. T. , Abu J. O. , Eke M. O.
Published: March 2019

The bioactive peptides produced by enzymatic hydrolysis, acid hydrolysis and fermentation approach have been identified and used widely in research. These methods are important in enhancement or prevention and management of chronic diseases that are ravaging the world such as type -2-diabetes, hypertension, oxidative stress, cancer, and obesity. Sources of bioactive peptides have been established ranging from plant to animal and marine foods that have pharmacological effects; however these effects are dependent on target cells and peptides structure and conformations.  Plants such as hemp and animal source such as milk among others validate the findings of In vitro and In-vivo studies and the efficiency of these bioactive peptides in the management of certain chronic diseases. This article reviews the literature on bioactive peptides with concern on food sources, production and bioactive peptides application in enhancement of health and management of hypertension, diabetes and oxidative stress.  Future research efforts on bioactive peptides should be directed towards elucidating specific sequenced bioactive peptides and their molecular mechanisms, through In-vivo and In-vitro studies for specific health condition in human using nutrigenomics and peptideomic approaches.
Assessment of Physicochemical Qualities of Oilfield Wastewater in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ntongha Oyibo , Samuel Wemedo
Published: March 2019

Oilfield wastewater which is not properly treated before being discharged has great negative impacts on the environment and aquatic life and also affects humans. It is necessary to assess the physicochemical qualities of oilfield wastewater to reduce its environmental impact. Oilfield wastewater samples were collected from an onshore oil production platform for a period of eight months (March to October, 2018). These were analyzed for physicochemical parameters and heavy metals using standard methods. Oilfield wastewater gotten from EPU 05 had higher TDS 294.6 mg/l, conductivity 619.0 μS/cm, COD 6.44 mg/l, BOD 2.24, compared to that found from Kolo creek flow station and were significantly different (P>0.05). While, TSS 16.85 mg/l, salinity 175.0 mg/l, turbidity 4.8 (NTU), and THC 1.39 were higher in that of the Kolo creek flow station. There was no significant difference in pH and temperature in the Kolo creek flow station and EPU 05. Higher values of iron 0.46 mg/l, chromium 0.03mg/l, was observed in that of the Kolo creek flow station compared to that of the EPU 05 0.14mg/l. EPU 05 had higher values in zinc 0.09 mg/l, copper 0.12 mg/l, cadmium 0.18 mg/l, mercury 0.08 mg/l and arsenic 0.07 mg/l. All the physicochemical parameters were within the allowable limit recommended by regulatory bodies (eg. WHO, DPR, FMEnv etc.). Regulatory bodies should ensure that companies practice proper waste management and compliance.
Design and Engineering Economic Analysis of a Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) and Mini-Split Air Conditioning System
Authors: Layeni A. T. , Nwaokocha C. N. , Giwa S. O. , Sulaiman M. A. , Adedeji K. A. , Olanrewaju A. I.
Published: March 2019

Design and Engineering Economic Analysis of two widely used Air-Conditioning (AC) systems, Mini-Split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF), in the new Engineering Complex Building under the same indoor and outdoor conditions for an entire year is carried out by using Carrier Hourly Analysis Program software for cooling load estimation, and the Net Present Worth Analysis for Economic Analysis of both systems. Both systems are direct expansion air conditioning systems; hence the cooling load estimation was done using the ASHRAE transfer function method embedded within the Carrier software. Equipment to be used in analysis were selected from the Toshiba selection catalogues (Mini Split system), while that for the VRF system was selected using Toshiba simulation software. The annual energy analysis of both systems indicated that the VRF system will require more energy to run on an annual basis than the Mini Split system. However, the analysis was carried out without considering the part load potential energy savings of the VRF system. Net Present Worth Analysis carried out also favoured the Mini Split system in terms of Net Present Value of the systems. Based on the Engineering Economic Analysis carried out on the two systems, the overall Net Present Value for the VRF system is N77,891,808.66, while that of the Mini-Split system is N46,641,828.74. This result shows that the VRF system has a higher cost implication than the Mini-Split system. Hence, in terms of cost, the Mini-Split system is a more viable option.
Phytochemical Investigation and In-vitro Antifungal Activity of Essential Oil from the Roots of Selinum vaginatum C. B. Clarke
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Kumar Sanjay , Javed Mohammad S. , Tewari A. K. , Bisht K. S.
Published: March 2019

Aim: The study was to evaluate the phytogenic chemical compounds and Antifungal Activity of essential oil from roots of Selinum vaginatum C.B. Clarke, growing in the Himalayan region of Jammu & Kashmir.

Methodology: The essential oil was analyzed by Gas Chromatography & Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry in relation with their Kavot indices and mass spectra.

Results: The oil was found completely dominated by oxygenated sesquiterpenoids (71.9%) which includes 14-hydroxy-δ-cadinene (37.5%), khusinol (20.7%), viridiflorol (8.0%), acorenone -B (4.2%) and 14-oxy-α-muurolene (1.1%) whereas δ-cadinene (8.9%), α-copaene (6.8%), germacrene-A (2.5%), and β-caryophyllene (1.3%) were the major compounds among sesquiterpenoids. Monoterpenoids constituted as the minor portion (3.8%) of essential oil. The oil was found almost free from oxygenated monoterpenoids (0.2%). The roots of S. vaginatum are used in folk lore medicines in Jammu & Kashmir. The oil from the roots showed marked antifungal activity. The oil had shown 100% mycelia growth inhibition against A. tenuis, C. graminicola, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum at a concentration of 500 µg/ml, 2000 µg/mL, 2000 µg/mL and 300 µg/mL respectively. However F. oxysporum was found less susceptible to the root oil of S. vaginatum. The IC50 values showed a range from 57.4 µg/mL–74.7 µg/mL as compared to standard fungicides with IC50 values 32.8 µg/mL–98.6 µg/mL. The spore germination inhibition test revealed the root oil as a potent inhibitor with IC50 values as 201.4 µg/mL, 414.7 µg/mL and 784.7 µg/mL for A. tenuis, C. graminicola and F. oxysporum. Conclusion: Our study showed that14-hydroxy-δ-cadinene (37.5%), khusinol (20.7%), & viridiflorol (8.0%) are the major components in this oil and possessed potent antifungal activity against test fungal strain, respectively.
Gaussian Generalized Tetranacci Numbers
Authors: Soykan Yüksel
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we dene Gaussian generalized Tetranacci numbers and as special cases, we investigate Gaussian Tetranacci and Gaussian Tetranacci-Lucas numbers with their properties. We present Binet's formulas, generating functions, and the summation formulas for Gaussian generalized Tetranacci numbers.Moreover, we give some identities connecting Gaussian Tetranacci and Gaussian Tetranacci-Lucas numbers. Furthermore, we present matrix formulation of Gaussian generalized Tetranacci numbers.
Utilization of Maternal Health Care Services in India: A Community Based Cross-sectional Study in Rural Belgaum
Authors: Dahal Maginsh , Baral Kushalata , Angolkar Mubashir
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Sub Centre (SC) is the peripheral unit of the existing health care delivery system under the allopathic system of medicine in India. These basically provide preventive, promotive and the curative services and are facilitated by Female Health Workers (ANM) and Male Health Workers (MHW). They are the integral part of health care delivery system. Also, key to achieve a goal of health for all and to promote the community people for their overall development.

Methods: A community based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2011 to February 2013 in all 9 sub centers of Kinaye PHC of Belgaum district, all 14 maternal health care workers were selected  and 272 beneficiaries were selected from catchments area of these sub-centers were interviewed by administering structured, pretested interview schedule. Data were analyzed by SPSS (20 Version).

Results: Study revealed that (85%) of the workers had correct knowledge but could not transform it into practice completely. This is due to multiple problems that encounter such as include lack of equipments(85.71%), transport facilities (77.78%), delay in decision-making by community to seek care (77.78%), lack of supportive supervision (>20%). Besides these, they were lacking in career development opportunities. There are no promotional avenues and low remuneration and benefits. The acceptance of service provided through sub centers was satisfactory (>90%) among beneficiaries and ANMs (98%) were most accepted than MHW. Beneficiaries faced many problems to access services such as lack of need based services (60%), poor attention by health service provider towards the need of consumers (5.2%) and difficulty in reaching to sub health post (21%).

Conclusion: The regular supply of necessary equipments and medicines needs to be ensured          at the sub centre and frequent in-service trainings and career development opportunities to be given to health workers to maintain the enthusiasm and devotion towards the profession.                Also there is a need to provide skill development opportunities and ensure the convenience of service at all sub centers and communication between health workers and beneficiaries to be emphasized.
Renal Scarring in Children with Primary Vesicoureteral Reflux Disease
Authors: Kawoosa Khalid , Malla Rahid Rasool , Wani Wasim Ahmad , Nazir Mudasir , Kubravi Syed Heena
Published: March 2019

Aims: To determine the incidence of renal scarring among patients with primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and the possible risk factor(s), we studied 69 children (42 girls and 27 boys) with VUR attending the Pediatric opd.

Study Design: Prospective Observational study.

Place and duration of Study: Department of pediatrics, Sher I Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Kashmir between June 2017 to June 2018.

Methodology:  All the patients were assessed for VUR grade by voiding cystoureterography and for presence of renal scarring by (99 m) technetium dimercapto–succinic acid scintigraphy.

Results: Grade of reflux and number of urinary tract infection (UTI) episodes (≥3) were found to be statistically significant risk factors for renal scarring (P <0.05). However, there was no significant association with gender, familial history and laterality of the disease (P >0.05). Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference of frequency of renal scarring among the different age groups (P >0.05).

Conclusions: It was concluded that recurrences of UTI and VUR severity are significant risk factors for renal scarring in children with VUR. Therefore, identification of VUR at an early age may offer the opportunity to prevent episodes of UTI and possible formation of renal scars that may result in end-stage renal failure.
Alterations of Biochemical Composition of Leaf and Stem of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) by Colletotrichum destructivum O’Gara in Nigeria
Authors: Amadioha A. C. , Nwazuo Enyiukwu David
Published: March 2019

Colletotrichum destructivum during pathogenesis reduced the nutrient values of cowpea leaf and stem. The protein, fat, carbohydrate, fibre contents of the leaf decreased from 34.91%, 5.42%, 43.61% and 19.46% in the uninfected leaf samples to 20.40%, 2.15%, 37.03% and 15.53% in the infected leaf respectively whereas the moisture and ash contents increased by 10.88% and 11.15% in the uninfected leaf sample to 12.51% and 11.24% respectively in the infected leaf samples. The composition of zinc, sodium, magnesium, iron, and potassium in the leaf increased whereas calcium and phosphorous decreased after inoculation with the test fungus. It reduced the protein content from 15.64% in the healthy stem tissue to 12.69% in the infected one, fat from 1.29% to 0.78%, crude fibre from 16.87% to14.62%, and carbohydrate from 31.11% to 25.39%. Also, the fungus caused a reduction of the calcium and phosphorus contents of the healthy stem tissue from 2.09 mg and 326.50 mg to 1.19 mg and 299.10 mg respectively. Infection of the stem with the pathogen led to increasing moisture, potassium, sodium, zinc, iron, and magnesium contents from 11.80%, 230.12 mg, 111. 28 mg, 1.66 mg, 0.89 mg and 0.95 mg to 12.65% , 364.21 mg, 203.64 mg, 3.02, 1.52 mg, and 2.18 mg respectively. The average loss of the major nutrients; protein, fat, and carbohydrate was more in the leaf than stem, 34.29% and 18.14%  respectively 8 weeks after planting (WAP).
Genetic Diversity Analysis for Economically Important Traits of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) Ratoon Crop
Authors: Azam Abdullah , Khan Farooq Ahmad , Khan Aqeel Afzal , Ullah Smi
Published: March 2019

Study on correlation and path coefficient analysis for cane yield and yield related traits in 20 accessions of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) ratoon crop was conducted in the field of Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences (p = 0.01) among the accessions for all the traits as shown in Table 2. Among the traits studied cane weight had positive correlation both at genotypic and phenotypic level with plant height, leaf area, cane diameter, no. of nodes per plant, internodal distance, juice contents dry matter contents and bagasse weight (Table 3). Also cane weight has negative correlation with no. of tillers per plant and no. of millable canes per plant significant at phenotypic level (Table 3). The study of path coefficient analysis for yield related traits depicted that baggas weight exerts maximum direct effect on cane yield followed by juice contents and internodal distance and indirect effects of these traits via each other were also found maximum compared to other traits (Table 4) while Dry matter contents, Leaf area and No. of tillers per plant had negative direct effect on cane yield. Cluster analysis revealed that cluster II ( BF-129, CPF-234, CP-77-400, TRITON and SPSG-26) showed highest values (Table 7) for most of the traits like plant height, leaf area, cane diameter, No. of nodes, juice contents, dry matter contents, bagasse weight and cane weight. The similar trend is also shown by PCA biplot. So best performing sugarcane accessions like cluster II viz BF-129, CPF-234, CP-77-400, TRITON and SPSG-26 if selected for breeding against highly correlated variables of bagasse weight, juice contents and internodal distance with cane weight, can increase our yield qualitatively and quantitatively.
The Effect of Aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium on Anxiety during MRI Imaging in Patients with Spinal Disorders: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ahani Nishtman , Salehi Kamal , Seidi Jamal , Salehi Bakhtyar , Nouri Bijan
Published: March 2019

Objective: Anxiety is one of the most significant problems of patients during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Anxiety affects the quality of images, increased costs and repeating the imaging process. Aromatherapy is regarded a complementary therapy that is assumed to be highly effective in reducing anxiety. The present study aims at investigating the effect of aromatherapy with Citrus aurantium on anxiety in MRI imaging.

Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical trial was done on 80 patients with spinal disorders that were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. In the intervention group, inhaling Citrus aurantium essential oil was conducted two minutes before entering the MRI machine and right before entering the MRI machine. As for the control group, the patients were provided with only the common cares of the medical center. Right after the imaging process, the anxiety experienced was evaluated based on the Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Anxiety Questionnaire (MRI-AQ). The data collected were analyzed in SPSS-21 with statistical tests including independent T-test, Fisher’s exact test, and chi-squared test.

Results: The samples of both groups were homogenous in terms of age, sex, marital status, educational level, occupation, and the kind of disease. The mean of MRI anxiety experience was 23.32±12.72 and 37.4±15.41 in the intervention and control group respectively; the independent T-test indicated a significant difference.

Conclusion: Citrus aurantium is likely to reduce the anxiety in MRI imaging. Given the proper effectiveness, inexpensiveness, and the easy administration of this aromatherapy, it is recommended to be applied for reducing the MRI anxiety.
Influence of Process Plan on Agricultural Cooperative Societies Performance in Kenya
Authors: Ngeywo Javan , Ayuma Caroline , Were Edmund
Published: March 2019

Process plan implementation plays a key role in the organizational performance especially the coffee cooperative societies. Coffee cooperative societies enable the pooling of resources towards betterment of livelihood of rural folk particularly the farmers. The study was carried out in order to establish the level of contribution of process plan towards the performance of agricultural cooperatives specifically the coffee cooperative societies in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. The study utilized structured questionnaire administered to 346 coffee farmers. The respondents were arrived at using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were analysed using Spearman’s correlation coefficient together with regression. It was established that process plan had positive statistical significance on the organizational performance (P < 0.05), hence community development practitioners and agricultural extension officers should enhance utilization of process plan in the agricultural cooperative societies.
Quantitative Geomorphology
Authors: Piégay Hervé
Published: March 2019

Quantitative geomorphology developed as a school of thought during the 1950s and 1960s. Pioneer researchers introduced process‐based thinking supported by measurements to explain land form evolution and characteristics. Quantitative geomorphology was founded on the idea that objectivity and observations should be reinforced by quantification using instruments that provide reliable and precise data. It contrasts with qualitative (visual) observation, which is limited to observable facts (although many processes are not directly perceptible) and is biased by the acuity of the observer, his/her experiences, memories, beliefs, or attachment to a given theory. In the late 1990s, new technological facilities associated with larger datasets led to a new era in scientific practices and questionings. Geomorphology, based on a field tradition, is becoming increasingly numerical and remotely sensed. This new era, seen as a second quantitative revolution within the discipline, widened our spatial and temporal vision and is reconciling holistic and reductionist approaches by engaging multiple‐scale perspectives and improving linkages between evolutionary and functional geomorphology.
Optical Remote Sensing
Authors: Shao Guofan
Published: March 2019

Optical remote sensing (ORS) is a traditional remote‐sensing method. Contemporary ORS data are largely in digital formats and may consist of visible, near‐infrared (NIR), and shortwave infrared (SWIR) bands. ORS data can be characterized with radiometric, spatial, spectral, and temporal resolutions. Ground‐based, airborne, and spaceborne ORS systems are available for a variety of purposes. The presentations of ORS data have been advanced from single‐color dots or symbols into visual‐reality images, which can be enhanced with band selection and transformation techniques. Both commercial and free computer programs are available for ORS data analysis. Valuable information can be obtained by using supervised and unsupervised information extraction methods. There are day‐to‐day and specialized applications with ORS data. Correctly using ORS data is critical to realize its effectiveness, usefulness, and powerfulness.
Zoogeomorphology
Authors: Butler David R.
Published: March 2019

Zoogeomorphology is the study of the effects of animals as geomorphic agents. Animals erode the landscape, transport sediment, and produce landforms through a variety of processes including burrowing, digging for food, mounding of sediments, trampling and chiseling the landscape, and by construction (in the case of beavers) of dams that impound water, create ponds, and sequester sediments. Although a fairly recent subdiscipline, a rich variety of studies typify modern zoogeomorphology. Zoogeomorphic impacts during the late Pleistocene and Holocene have been influenced by anthropogenic activities. Zoogeomorphic impacts in the future are being affected by climate change and human alterations of the landscape.
Cognitive deficits in adult m.3243A>G‐ and m.8344A>G‐related mitochondrial disease: importance of correcting for baseline intellectual ability
Authors: Moore Heather L. , Kelly Thomas , Bright Alexandra , Field Robert H. , Schaefer Andrew M. , Blain Alasdair P. , Taylor Robert W. , McFarland Robert , Turnbull Doug M. , Gorman Gráinne S.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To determine the cognitive profile of adult patients with mitochondrial disease, and the effect of disease severity on cognition.

Methods

Using a prospective case‐control design, we compared cognition of patients to normative data and to matched controls, assessed three times over 18 months. Forty‐nine patients with m.3243A>G (N = 36) and m.8344A>G (N = 13) mtDNA mutations and 32 controls, matched by age (±5 years) and premorbid cognition (±10 WTAR FSIQ points), participated. Participants completed neuropsychological assessments of general cognition (WAIS‐IV), executive function (D‐KEFS), and memory (WMS‐IV). Potential predictors of cognition were explored.

Results

Patients show mild‐to‐moderate premorbid cognitive impairment, but substantial impairment in current general cognition and distinct domains, including verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, processing speed, and memory retrieval. Executive dysfunction may be caused by slower decision‐making. Patients performed worse than controls, except on memory tasks, indicating intact memory, when premorbid cognition is controlled for. Premorbid cognition and disease severity were consistent predictors of cognition in patients; however, cognitive decline appears slow and is unlikely in the short‐term, when other disease‐specific factors remain stable.

Interpretation

Patients should be monitored to facilitate early identification of a complex profile of cognitive deficits and individuals with higher disease burden should be followed up more closely. On development of cognitive difficulties, appropriate compensatory strategies should be determined through in‐depth assessment. Using strategies such as slower presentation of information, multiple modes of presentation, active discussion to aid understanding and decision‐making, and use of memory aids, may ameliorate difficulties.
Metal‐Free Ring Opening Cyclization of Cyclopropane Carbaldehydes and N‐Benzyl Anilines: An Eco‐Friendly Access to Functionalized Benzo[b]azepine Derivatives
Authors: Dey Raghunath , Banerjee Prabal
Published: March 2019

Herein, we report a p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA) initiated mild and user‐friendly ring opening/domino ring opening cyclization reaction (depends on substituent present in N‐benzyl aniline) of cyclopropane carbaldehyde and N‐benzyl aniline towards the formation of substituted 4‐amino butanal/2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[b]azepine. The product dihydro‐1H‐benzo[b]azepine was also converted into the corresponding tetrahydro‐1H‐benzo[b]azepine.

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Functionalization of Enzymatically Synthesized Rigid Poly(itaconate)s via Post‐Polymerization Aza‐Michael Addition of Primary Amines
Authors: Guarneri Alice , Cutifani Viola , Cespugli Marco , Pellis Alessandro , Vassallo Roberta , Asaro Fioretta , Ebert Cynthia , Gardossi Lucia
Published: March 2019

The bulky 1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol was used as co‐monomer for introducing rigidity in lipase synthetized poly(itaconate)s. Poly(1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol itaconate) was synthetized on a 14 g scale at 50 °C, under solvent‐free conditions and 70 mbar using only 135 Units of lipase B from Candida antarctica per gram of monomer. The mild conditions preserved the labile vinyl group of itaconic acid and avoided the decomposition of 1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol, both observed in chemical polycondensations. Experimental and computational data show that the enzymatic polycondensation proceeds despite the low reactivity of C1 of itaconic acid. The rigid poly(1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol itaconate) was investigated in the context of aza‐Michael addition of hexamethylenediamine and 2‐phenylethylamine to the vinyl moiety. The enzymatically synthesized linear poly(1,4‐butylene itaconate) was studied as a comparison. The two oligoesters (Molecular Weights ranging from 720 to 2859 g mol−1) reacted on a gram scale, at 40–50 °C, at atmospheric pressure and in solvent‐free conditions. The addition of primary amines led to amine‐functionalized oligoesters but also to chain degradation, and the reactivity of the poly(itaconate)s was influenced by the rigidity of the polymer chain. Upon the formation of the secondary amine adduct, the linear poly(1,4‐butylene itaconate) undergoes fast intramolecular cyclization and subsequent degradation via pyrrolidone formation, especially in the presence of hexamethylenediamine. On the contrary, the bulky 1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol confers rigidity to poly(1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol itaconate), which hampers the intramolecular cyclization. Also, the bulkiness of the amine and the use of solvent emerged as factors that affect the reactivity of poly(itaconate)s. Therefore, the possibility to insert discrete units of itaconic acid in oligoesters using biocatalysts under solvent‐free mild conditions opens new routes for the generation of bio‐based functional polymers or amine‐triggered degradable materials, as a function of the rigidity of the polyester chain.

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Exploration of Aldol Reactions Catalyzed by Stereoselective Pyruvate Aldolases with 2‐Oxobutyric Acid as Nucleophile
Authors: Laurent V. , Uzel A. , Hélaine V. , Nauton L. , Traïkia M. , Gefflaut T. , Salanoubat M. , de Berardinis V. , Lemaire M. , Guérard‐Hélaine C.
Published: March 2019

Pyruvate aldolases from Pfam family PF03328, recently described to be able to use hydroxypyruvic acid as nucleophile substrate, were shown to also catalyse aldol adducts formation from 2‐oxobutyric acid. A 1H NMR‐based assay was used to screen 21 aldolases for their activity towards 2‐oxobutyric acid and to predict their stereoselectivity at position 3 of the aldol adducts. The best biocatalysts were then proved to be strictly (3S)‐selective. Contrary to known enzymes from this family that are seldom stereoselective at position 4, three aldolases were highlighted as allowing a selective access to (3S,4R) or (3S,4S) aldols. Seven 3‐deoxy‐3‐methylulosonic acids never described before were finally prepared and isolated with good yields and stereoselectivities.

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Effect of different anesthetic mixtures—ketamine‐xylazine, ketamine‐acepromazine and tiletamine‐zolazepam—on the physiological and blood biochemistry parameters of male rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) at different ages
Authors: Hernández‐Godínez Braulio , Bonilla Jaime Herlinda , Poblano Adrián , Arteaga‐Silva Marcela , Medina Hernández Ameyalli , Contreras‐Uribe Armando , Ibáñez‐Contreras Alejandra
Published: March 2019

Background

Anesthetic agents are commonly utilized in the handling of non‐human primates for prevent the stress caused in physical exploration or physical restrain. For this reason, the objective of this work was to describe the effect of age and dissociative anesthetics (ketamine and tiletamine), and their combinations with acepromazine, xylazine and zolazepam, on the physiological and blood biochemical parameters in Macaca mulatta.

Methods

Eighty male Macaca mulatta were divided into four experimental groups depending on the anesthetic mixture applied. Each group of 20 males was divided into five sub‐groups according to age. Physiological parameters were recorded every 5 minutes during a 30‐minute period. A blood sample was drawn to analyze blood biochemistry.

Results

Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in the physiological parameters between the ketamine‐acepromazine and ketamine‐xylazine groups compared to the control group. The analysis of blood biochemistry found significant differences by age and by anesthetic mixture among all groups.

Conclusion

These findings contribute to standardizing this animal model in biological research.
A Photoexcitation‐Induced Twisted Intramolecular Charge Shuttle
Authors: Chi Weijie , Qiao Qinglong , Lee Richmond , Liu Wenjuan , Teo Yock Siong , Gu Danning , Lang Matthew John , Chang Young‐Tae , Xu Zhaochao , Liu Xiaogang
Published: March 2019

Charge transfer and separation are important processes governing numerous chemical reactions. Fundamental understanding of these processes and the underlying mechanisms is critical for photochemistry. Herein, we report the discovery of a new charge‐transfer and separation process, namely the twisted intramolecular charge shuttle (TICS). In TICS systems, the donor and acceptor moieties dynamically switch roles in the excited state because of an approximately 90° intramolecular rotation. TICS systems thus exhibit charge shuttling. TICSs exist in several chemical families of fluorophores (such as coumarin, BODIPY, and oxygen/carbon/silicon–rhodamine), and could be utilized to construct functional fluorescent probes (i.e., viscosity‐ or biomolecule‐sensing probes). The discovery of the TICS process expands the current perspectives of charge‐transfer processes and will inspire future applications.
Cationic para‐phenyl‐substituted α‐diimine nickel catalyzed ethylene and 4‐methyl‐1‐pentene (co)polymerizations via living/controlled chain‐walking
Authors: Zhang Minghu , Wu Qitong , Xu Guoyong , Li Yougui , Wang Fuzhou
Published: March 2019

Upon activation with diethylaluminium chloride (Et2AlCl), a series of phenyl‐substituted α‐diimine nickel precatalysts conducted 4‐methyl‐1‐pentene (4MP) and ethylene (E) (co)polymerizations via controlled chain‐walking to generate branched amorphous polymers with high molecular weight and narrow molecular weight distribution (Mw/Mn < 1.6). The obtained poly(4MP)s were amorphous elastomers with glass transition temperature (Tg) of −10 ~ −24 °C, which are higher than that of E‐4MP copolymer (−63.0 °C). At room temperature (25 °C), 4MP polymerization proceeds in a living manner. The microstructures of the produced poly(4MP)s indicated the 2,1‐ and 1,2‐insertion followed by chain‐walking, the latter being predominant. The NMR analyses of the polymers showed that the obtained poly(4MP) possessed methyl, isobutyl, 2,4‐dimethylpentyl and 2‐methylhexyl groups, while the isobutyl and 2,4‐dimethylalkyl branches derived from 4MP were observed in the E‐4MP copolymer. The branch structures and the insertion‐type of monomer were depended on the polymerization temperature, and the content of methyl branch increased with an increase in the polymerization temperature.
Formulation and Characterization of Human Milk Fat Substitutes Made from Blends of Refined Palm Olein, and Soybean, Olive, Fish, and Virgin Coconut Oils
Authors: Mohammadi Teimoor , Farmani Jamshid , Piravi‐Vanak Zahra
Published: March 2019

The simplest and the most cost‐effective way of human milk fat substitute (HMFS) production is formulating of suitable vegetable oils at proper ratios. To do this, the D‐optimal mixture design was used to optimize the HMFS formulation. The design included 25 formulations made from refined palm olein (35–55%), soybean oil (5–25%), olive oil (5–20%), virgin coconut oil (5–15%), and fish oil (0–10%). Samples were produced in laboratory and characterized in terms of fatty acid and triacylglycerol (TAG) compositions, free fatty acid content, peroxide value, iodine value, and oxidative stability index (OSI). HMFS samples were also compared with Codex Alimentarius (CA) and Iran National Standards Organization (INSO) standards. Each characteristic of HMFS samples was then expressed as a function of ingredient ratio using regression models. Finally, using numerical optimization, four optimized blends (PB1‐PB4) were selected, made in the laboratory (HMFS1‐HMFS4), characterized, and compared with CA and INSO standards. The properties of all the optimized blends (except the palmitic acid content of HMFS2and the monounsaturated fatty acid [MUFA] content of HMFS3) met the standards. HMFS4showed the highest OSI in Rancimat and the lowest oxidation rate in Schaal oven tests. POL (19.53–21.73%), PPO (20.77–21.73%), OOO (9.11–11.16%), and OPO (8.84–9.46%) were the main (totally about 60%) TAG species found in HMFS samples. In conclusion, the HMFS4formula (55% palm olein, 13.5% soybean oil, 16% refined olive oil, 15% virgin coconut oil, and 0.5% fish oil) was suggested as the best formula for HMFS production.
Brain structural changes after multi‐strategic metamemory training in older adults with subjective memory complaints: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Youn Jung‐Hae , Ryu Seung‐Ho , Lee Jun‐Young , Park Soowon , Cho Seong‐Jin , Kwon Hunki , Yang Jin‐Ju , Lee Jong‐Min , Lee Jiyeon , Kim Seolmin , Livingston Gill , Yoon Dong Hyun
Published: March 2019

Background

Metamemory is the process of monitoring and controlling one's memory. Improving metamemory may reduce the memory problem in old age. We hypothesized that metamemory training (MMT) would improve cognition in older adults with subjective memory complaints and change the brain region related to metacognition.

Method

We recruited and randomized older adults to the multi‐strategic memory training of 10 weekly 90‐min sessions, based on the metamemory concept or usual care. Cognitive tests including the Elderly Verbal Learning Test, Simple Rey Figure Test, Digit Span, Spatial Span, Categorical Fluency, and the Boston Naming Test were done in 201 participants, together with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in 49 participants before and after training.

Results

A total of 112 in the training group and 89 in the control group participated. The training group had a significant increase in long‐term delayed free recall, categorical fluency, and the Boston Naming test. In MRI, the mean diffusivity of the bundles of axon tracts passing from the frontal lobe to the posterior end of the lateral sulcus decreased in the training group.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the MMT program has a positive impact on enhancing older people’ cognitive performance. Improved white matter integrity in the anterior and posterior cerebrum and increased cortical thickness of prefrontal regions, which related to metacognition, possibly suggest that the effects of the MMT would be induced via the enhancement of cognitive control.
Clinical Studies on Drug–Drug Interactions Involving Metabolism and Transport: Methodology, Pitfalls, and Interpretation
Authors: Tornio Aleksi , Filppula Anne M. , Niemi Mikko , Backman Janne T.
Published: March 2019

Many drug–drug interactions (DDIs) are based on alterations of the plasma concentrations of a victim drug due to another drug causing inhibition and/or induction of the metabolism or transporter‐mediated disposition of the victim drug. In the worst case, such interactions cause more than tenfold increases or decreases in victim drug exposure, with potentially life‐threatening consequences. There has been tremendous progress in the predictability and modeling of DDIs. Accordingly, the combination of modeling approaches and clinical studies is the current mainstay in evaluation of the pharmacokinetic DDI risks of drugs. In this paper, we focus on the methodology of clinical studies on DDIs involving drug metabolism or transport. We specifically present considerations related to general DDI study designs, recommended enzyme and transporter index substrates and inhibitors, pharmacogenetic perspectives, index drug cocktails, endogenous substrates, limited sampling strategies, physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic modeling, complex DDIs, methodological pitfalls, and interpretation of DDI information.
Transition‐Metal‐Catalyzed Direct Arylation of Caged Silsesquioxanes: Substrate Scope and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Imoto Hiroaki , Wada Satoshi , Yumura Takashi , Naka Kensuke
Published: March 2019

Caged silsesquioxane (polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane: POSS) is an important class of organic‐inorganic hybrid molecules. The electronic properties of POSS have gradually attracted attention from experimental and computational perspectives, while POSS is generally utilized for reinforcement of polymer materials. Practical synthetic routes to access to aryl‐substituted POSS are effective tools for the systematic studies. Recently, we reported Rh‐catalyzed direct arylation of heptaisobutyl‐POSS with electron‐rich aryl iodides. Herein substrates for the Rh‐catalyzed direct arylation were widely examined: electron‐deficient, sterically‐hindered, and heteroatom‐containing aryl halides, and heptaphenyl‐POSS. Pd‐catalyzed direct arylation of POSS was developed as well. Notably, thiophene was introduced by the Pd‐catalyst, whereas the Rh‐system did not work for the substrate. In addition, the reaction mechanism of the Rh‐catalyzed reaction was elucidated by density functional theory calculations.