bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of crack tip shielding on fatigue crack propagation
Authors: Cernescu Anghel
Published: July 2018

The fatigue crack propagation is one of the major problems and of the real concern in the evaluation of the structural integrity of components. This is due to the fact that once a fatigue crack has been detected it is also known its effect on the component; respectively it will cause failure at one time. In this situation, the problem is focused on determining the character of propagation of the crack so that it can be estimated and respectively delayed as possible the failure moment. The fatigue crack propagation character is determined by the stress state at the crack tip and the behavior of the material in which the crack is propagates. One of the phenomena with great influence on the fatigue crack propagation character is the crack tip stress shielding phenomena. In this paper the overloading effect is explained in terms of crack tip shielding mechanisms that guide the fatigue crack growth in plastic zone. The results indicate a change of fatigue crack propagation character once its tip enters into a plastic zone.
Local strain energy density for the fracture assessment of polyurethane specimens weakened by notches of different shape
Authors: Peron M. , Razavi S.M.J. , Berto F. , Torgersen J. , Marsavina L.
Published: July 2018

Recent studies on local stress fields in proximity of crack and notch tips have shown that Strain Energy Density (SED), averaged in a circular control volume surrounding the point of stress singularities, represents a reliable engineering approach for assessing the brittle fracture of several brittle materials. It is worthy of notice that the application of SED criterion and the reliability of its results are strictly related to the proper determination of fracture parameters, i.e. the critical value of deformation energy Wc and the radius Rc of the control volume. This work presents an experimental methodology for their determination by means of notched specimens for different polyurethane densities, ranging from 100 to 651 kg/m3. Then, once obtained these critical parameters, the failure load in different types of notches and cracked specimens under mode I have been predicted. Moreover, for cracked specimens under mixed mode and mode II, the authors propose a personal approach that confirms PUR foams can be treated as brittle materials
Theoretical model of homogenized piezoelectric materials with small non-collinear periodic cracks
Authors: Nianga Jean-Marie , Marhabi Driss
Published: July 2018

An analytical model for the homogenization of a piezoelectric material with small periodic fissures is proposed on the basis of the method of asymptotic expansions for the elastic displacement, the electric scalar potential and the test functions. Starting from the variational formulation of the three-dimensional problem of linear piezoelectricity, we have at first obtained that concerning a cracked piezoelectric structure, before the implementation of homogenized equations for a piezoelectric structure with a periodic distribution of cracks. It then follows, the characterization of the homogenized law between the mechanical strain and the electric potential, on one hand, and the mechanical stress and the electric displacement, on the other hand. Contrary to the previous investigations, the focus of this paper is the development of a mathematical model taking the non-parallelism of cracks into account.
Association of National Institute Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) Score on Admission with the Outcome of Acute Ischemic Stroke at Discharge from Hospital
Authors: Hasan TM Hasibul , Habib Khan Redzwan , Nuzhat Elham , Gomes Lilian Catherene , Hossain Mohammad Murad , Miah Md Titu , Azad Khan Abul Kalam , Alam Md Billal
Published: July 2018

Objectives: To determines the association of National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score on admission with outcome of acute ischemic stroke during discharge from hospital.Materials & Methods: This hospital based observational study was done in medicine department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital involving 50 patients diagnosed as ischemic stroke on admission. The diagnosis of stroke was established by the clinical presentation, neuroimaging (CT scan/ MRI). They were thoroughly examined and assessed with NIHSS score at admission. All data were be collected by using a preformed data sheet and results were presented in standard method after statistical analysis.Results: Most of the patients were elder than 60 years of age and mean age of the patients was 60.34(±16.1) years at onset with a range of 24 to 76 years. Male were 116 (58%) and female were 84 (42%). Male to female ratio was1.4:1. Majority had hypertension (75.8%) followed by physical inactivity (67%), Diabetes (37.4%), smoking (33%), obesity (23.1%), family H/O stroke (20.9%) and dyslipideamia (15.4%). Higher NIHS score was associated with poor outcome (p value <0.05).Conclusion: Among the common risk factors, smoking, hypertension, diabetes and atrial fibrillation are associated with worse outcome at discharge. Similarly, higher NIHSS score at admission and high CCI is also associated with poor outcome.J MEDICINE JUL 2018; 19 (2) : 91-94
Autologous Serum Skin Test for Initial Identification of Auto- Antibodies in Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Alam Mohammad Nura , Ali Mohammad , Khan Mohammad Moniruzzaman , Tarafder Keya , Acherjya Goutam Kumar , Mohith Muhammad Tanvir
Published: July 2018

Background: Autologous serum skin test (ASST) is easy to perform, cost effective measure for initial identification of auto-antibody in patients suffering from chronic urticaria which may occur due to autoimmune trigger by spontaneously developed auto-antibodies against FcμRI receptor of skin mast cells.Objective: This review is designed to see the positivity of ASST in patients suffering from chronic urticaria.Materials & Methods: This a retrospective data analysis conducted from the records of patients suffered from at least two episodes of urticaria or more in a week for 6 weeks and who did ASST aged more than 10 years between July 2015 to June 2017. These subjects were not pregnant or lactating mother, did not had urticarial vasculitis, predominant co-existing physical urticaria and had negative Hepatitis B antigen and anti-nuclear antibody reports.Results: Total 53 were included in this study of them 33 were female. Mean age was 32 years with a standard deviation (SD) of 11 years. Among study patients 16 (30.2% of total) had a positive ASST result. No age or sex difference was observed in positive ASST cases. In positive cases significant (p-value:<0.001) mean induration difference of 2.75mm with a SD of 1.00 mm observed than induration produced by negative control.Conclusion: ASST is easy and effective tool for initial identification of auto-reactive urticaria.J MEDICINE JUL 2018; 19 (2) : 100-103
Trifolium mutabile as New Species of Annual Legume for Mediterranean Climate Zone: First Evidences on Forage Biomass, Nitrogen Fixation and Nutritional Characteristics of Different Accessions
Authors: Fracchiolla Mariano , Lasorella Cesare , Laudadio Vito , Cazzato Eugenio
Published: July 2018

The present study evaluated the forage production, nitrogen fixation and the qualitative characteristics of different accessions of Trifolium mutabile, a new species of annual clover, collected in southern Italy. Forage traits were assessed by harvesting plants at the vegetative stage (stem elongation) and the subsequent regrowth at the flowering stage (inflorescence emergence-main shoot). From results, significant differences were found among the accessions of T. mutabile in terms of forage biomass production (from 5.1 to 8.2 t ha−1 dry matter), capacity of nitrogen fixation (58.2–76.8% Ndfa) and forage nutritional characteristics. Besides the high forage yield, the investigated accessions showed favourable values of production and quality, representing also worthy germplasm for selection programs as well as the application for possible plant cultivar registration. Moreover, it is interesting to underline that T. mutabile may represent a valuable alternative to commonly cultivated annual clover species due to its prolonged vegetative cycle. However, further investigations are needed to assess the self-reseeding capacity of T. mutabile when utilized as pasture species.
Code-VEP vs. Eye Tracking: A Comparison Study
Authors: Nezamfar Hooman , Mohseni Salehi Seyed Sadegh , Higger Matt , Erdogmus Deniz
Published: July 2018

Even with state-of-the-art techniques there are individuals whose paralysis prevents them from communicating with others. Brain–Computer-Interfaces (BCI) aim to utilize brain waves to construct a voice for those whose needs remain unmet. In this paper we compare the efficacy of a BCI input signal, code-VEP via Electroencephalography, against eye gaze tracking, among the most popular modalities used. These results, on healthy individuals without paralysis, suggest that while eye tracking works well for some, it does not work well or at all for others; the latter group includes individuals with corrected vision or those who squint their eyes unintentionally while focusing on a task. It is also evident that the performance of the interface is more sensitive to head/body movements when eye tracking is used as the input modality, compared to using c-VEP. Sensitivity to head/body movement could be better in eye tracking systems which are tracking the head or mounted on the face and are designed specifically as assistive devices. The sample interface developed for this assessment has the same reaction time when driven with c-VEP or with eye tracking; approximately 0.5–1 second is needed to make a selection among the four options simultaneously presented. Factors, such as system reaction time and robustness play a crucial role in participant preferences.
Model-Based Comparative Evaluation of Building and District Control-Oriented Energy Retrofit Scenarios
Authors: Tommasi Luciano De , Ridouane Hassan , Giannakis Georgios , Katsigarakis Kyriakos , Lilis Georgios N , Rovas Dimitrios
Published: July 2018

This paper presents work undertaken as part of the European H2020 project OptEEmAL (Optimized Energy Efficient Design Platform for Refurbishment at District Level), toward development of a decision-support platform for building and district refurbishment interventions. We describe a methodology for generation and evaluation of refurbishment scenarios for building and districts with particular emphasis on “active” energy conservation measures (i.e., installation or replacement of heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems) and related controls. The impact of HVAC and controls on energy and economic key performance indicators are usually neglected or very simplified in existing energy simulation tools. We apply a model-based approach to evaluate key-performance indicators related to energy consumption and energy costs in buildings and districts, such that possible refurbishment alternatives can be easily evaluated, thereby showing how a smart decision support tool will allow stakeholders to compare multiple alternatives quickly. By considering relevant case studies at building and district level, including refurbishment of heating and cooling plants, we highlight, in a simulation-based study, how the deployment of efficiency-based controls enable significant energy savings thanks to the exploitation of the model-based approach. This way, additional motivations for energy savings and ultimately for new investments in energy-related technologies are provided.
Synthesis of Vinyl Chloride Monomer over Carbon-Supported Tris-(Triphenylphosphine) Ruthenium Dichloride Catalysts
Authors: Li Xing , Zhang Haiyang , Man Baochang , Zhang Chuanming , Dai Hui , Dai Bin , Zhang Jinli
Published: July 2018

A series of catalysts, including Ru/AC, Ф-P-Ru/AC, Ф-P-Ru/AC-HCl, and Ф-P-Ru/AC-HNO3, were prepared and evaluated for the hydrochlorination reaction of acetylene. The test results reveal that the Ф-P-Ru/AC-HNO3 catalyst shows superior catalytic performance with an initial acetylene conversion of 97.2% and a relative increment of 87.0% within 48 h in comparison with that of the traditional RuCl3 catalyst. The substitution of inorganic RuCl3 precursor by organic Ф-P-Ru complex species in the catalysts results in more active species and tends to confine them in the micro-pores; the modification of carbon support by nitric acid in Ф-P-Ru catalyst may produce an interaction between the functional groups on modified support and Ru species, which is favorable to anchor and then reduce the loss of active species during the reaction, further increasing the amount of dominating Ru species, and greatly improving the reactants adsorption ability on the catalysts, thus enhancing the performance of the resultant catalysts. The as-prepared Ф-P-Ru catalysts are shown to be promising mercury-free candidates for the synthesis of vinyl chloride monomer.
Effect of Laser Scanning Speed on the Wear Behavior of Nano-SiC-Modified Fe/WC Composite Coatings by Laser Remelting
Authors: Zhao Yuncai , Du Huihui
Published: July 2018

A supersonic plasma sprayed nano-SiC-modified WC/Fe metal–cermet composite coating was remelted with a fibre-pulsed laser at four different laser scanning speeds (100, 150, 200 and 250 mm·min−1) while the other parameters were kept constant. The microstructures, microhardness, and tribological properties of the coatings were analysed by means of SEM (scanning electron microscopy), XRD (X-ray diffractometer), and a friction tester, respectively. The results show that, when the laser scanning speed is 100 mm·min−1, the remelted coating is most dense with regard to the coverage of the substrate. The coating with nano-particles became more smooth, and elements Si and C in the nano-particles reacted with Fe, Ni, or Cr and formed a hard mesophase that enhanced the strength and hardness of the coating. With the increase of laser scanning speed, the hardness of the four coatings increased first and then decreased, and the nano-SiC-modified remelted coating showed a maximum microhardness of about HV0.51350, and the nano-particles made the coating’s micro-structure finer, at a laser scanning speed of 150 mm·min−1. The friction coefficient and wear rate of the four coatings were 0.58 and 12.01 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m), 0.21 and 8.50 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m), 0.62 and 20.04 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m), and 1.23 and 25.13 × 10−5 mm3/(N·m). The remelted coating at a laser scanning speed of 150 mm·min−1 exhibits the best wear resistance and its wear mechanism is governed by slight adhesion wear and plastic deformation.
The Use of Led Technology and Biomass to Power Public Lighting in a Local Context: The Case of Baeza (Spain)
Authors: Molina-Moreno Valentín , Núñez-Cacho Utrilla Pedro , Cortés-García Francisco J. , Peña-García Antonio
Published: July 2018

The impact of public lighting on consumed energy, financial cost, use of raw materials, and the environment is a major concern nowadays. The high amounts of energy needed to satisfy the increasing demands of cities around the world has led researchers to look for alternatives to classical fossil sources, with low implementation in public lighting up to date. In this context, circular economy (CE) proposes a new perspective of engineering based on smart design for the future life of products where even wastes have an added value as technological nutrients for other applications. A convergent consideration of CE and the urgent necessity of more sustainable public lighting leads to this proposal. The ad hoc use of a local biomass plant for powering the public lighting of one small city is considered, and important conclusions reinforcing the link between lighting and CE are presented.
Methodology and Continuous Time Mathematical Model to Select Optimum Power of Gas Turbine Set for Dual-Fuel Gas-Steam Combined Heat and Power Plant in Parallel System
Authors: Bartnik Ryszard , Skomudek Waldemar , Buryn Zbigniew , Hnydiuk-Stefan Anna , Otawa Aleksandra
Published: July 2018

This paper contains the results of a study in which a novel approach using continuous time notation was applied in the search for the optimum capacity of a gas turbine designed for a dual-fuel gas-steam combined heat and power plant in a parallel system. As a result of the application of mathematical models of any functions that account for variations in time of all integrand quantities, for example prices of energy carriers, the model that was developed provides a way to analyze complex dependencies. The results of calculations obtained as a result of using this notation provide a rational selection of technologies and equipment designed for the energy industry. The results are based on an analysis involving a combined heat and power plant with an extraction-condensing steam turbine and extraction backpressure steam turbine for a wide range of the variability in energy prices and environmental charges corresponding to the current prices and environmental charges. All the curves were obtained using innovative methodology and mathematical model in which the total, discounted profit is calculated at the given moment and expressed as NPV achieved from the operation of dual-fuel gas-steam combined heat and power (CHP) plant.
Combining Behavioral Approaches with Techno-Economic Energy Models: Dealing with the Coupling Non-Linearity Issue
Authors: Moresino Francesco , Fragnière Emmanuel
Published: July 2018

Consumer behaviour is often complex and even sometimes not economically rational. Wrongly, the first techno-economic energy planning models assumed the economic rationality hypothesis and, therefore, represented consumers’ behaviour incorrectly. Nevertheless, the current trend is to couple these models with behavioural approaches that were specially developed to describe the real consumer choices. A novel approach was recently proposed, where a classical energy model is coupled with a share of choice model. This new approach has however two weaknesses. First, the share of choice increases the computational complexity as it necessitates additional binary variables for the modelling. Second, for complex models, the inclusion of the share of choice can lead to non-linearity and hence to severe computational problems. In the present paper, we propose to improve this method by externalizing the share of choice. Doing so, the number of binary variable will be reduced and the linearity property will be kept even for complex models.
Robust Estimation and Tracking of Power System Harmonics Using an Optimal Finite Impulse Response Filter
Authors: Kwon Bo-kyu , Han Soohee , Lee Kwang Y.
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a robust estimation method for estimating the power system harmonics is proposed by using the optimal finite impulse response (FIR) filter. The optimal FIR filter is applied to the state space representation of the noisy current or voltage signal and estimates the magnitude and phase-angle of the harmonic components. Due to the FIR structure, the FIR filter is more robust against model uncertainty than the Kalman filter. Hence, the FIR filter-based method will give a more robust solution for the power system harmonic estimation than the previous Kalman filter-based approaches. The performance and robustness of the proposed method are verified through simulation. Moreover, the proposed method is employed in the power conditioning system to estimate the harmonic components and total harmonic distortions.
Hard X-ray and Soft Gamma Ray Polarimetry with CdTe/CZT Spectro-Imager
Authors: Caroli Ezio , Moita Miguel , Da Silva Rui M. Curado , Del Sordo Stefano , De Cesare Giovanni , Maia Jorge M. , Pàscoa Marcela
Published: July 2018

CdTe/CZT based spectroscopic two-dimensional (2D)/three-dimensional (3D) imagers when operated in the Compton regime can work as high performance scattering polarimeters, for high-energy astrophysics. Polarimetry in high-energy astrophysics has been little explored. To date, X- and γ-ray source emissions have been studied almost exclusively through spectral, imaging, and timing analysis. Polarization measurements provide two additional observational parameters: the polarization angle and the level of linear polarization. These additional parameters should allow for a better discrimination between the physical mechanisms of different emission models characterizing a celestial object. Therefore, polarimetry will play a strategic role in new instrumentations for future high-energy astronomy missions. 2D and 3D CZT/CdTe spectroscopic imagers provided with coincidence readout logic can efficiently handle scattering events to perform simultaneously polarization, spectroscopy, imaging, and timing measurements. Herein, we describe the results obtained, both experimentally and by MC simulations, with CdTe/CZT pixel detector prototypes in high-energy polarimetry. We give an overview on the achievable polarimetric performance with spectroscopic imagers and on how these performances are affected by detector configuration parameters. Finally, we address the perspective of scattering polarimetry opened by the recent implementation of new high energy focusing optics, as broadband Laue lens, in next generation of hard X- and soft γ-ray astronomy instrumentation. The unprecedented sensitivity achievable by these telescopes will definitely open the window of polarimetry in this high-energy range.
Methanol as an Unlisted Ingredient in Supposedly Alcohol-Based Hand Rub Can Pose Serious Health Risk
Authors: Chan Alan P. L. , Chan Thomas Y. K.
Published: July 2018

Alcohol-based hand rub (hand sanitizer) is heavily used in the community and the healthcare setting to maintain hand hygiene. Methanol must never be used in such a product because oral, pulmonary and/or skin exposures can result in severe systemic toxicity and even deaths. However, sporadic cases of acute poisoning indicate that alcohol-based hand rub with undeclared methanol may be found in the market from time to time. The unexpected presence of methanol poses a serious threat to public health. Unintentional ingestion by young children and inadvertent consumption by older subjects as alcohol (ethanol) substitute can occur. Methanol is more lethal and poisoning often requires antidotal therapy, in addition to supporting therapy and critical care. However, specific therapy may be delayed because the exposure to methanol is initially not suspected. When repeatedly used as a hand rub, skin absorption resulting in chronic toxicity (e.g., visual disturbances) occurs, particularly if methanol induced desquamation and dermatitis are present. Nationwide surveillance systems, regional/international toxicovigilance networks and situational awareness among the healthcare professionals should facilitate the early detection, management and prevention of such poisoning incidents of public health significance.
PD-L1 Nanobody Competitively Inhibits the Formation of the PD-1/PD-L1 Complex: Comparative Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Sun Xin , Yan Xiao , Zhuo Wei , Gu Jinke , Zuo Ke , Liu Wei , Liang Li , Gan Ya , He Gang , Wan Hua , Gou Xiaojun , Shi Hubing , Hu Jianping
Published: July 2018

The anti-PD-L1 monoclonal antibody (mAb) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint has achieved outstanding results in clinical application and has become one of the most popular anti-cancer drugs. The mechanism of molecular recognition and inhibition of PD-L1 mAbs is not yet clear, which hinders the subsequent antibody design and modification. In this work, the trajectories of PD-1/PD-L1 and nanobody/PD-L1 complexes were obtained via comparative molecular dynamics simulations. Then, a series of physicochemical parameters including hydrogen bond, dihedral angle distribution, pKa value and binding free energy, and so forth, were all comparatively analyzed to investigate the recognition difference between PD-L1 and PD-1 and nanobody. Both LR113 (the amino acid residues in PD-L1 are represented by the lower left sign of L) and LR125 residues of PD-L1 undergo significant conformational change after association with mAbs, which dominates a strong electrostatic interaction. Solvation effect analysis revealed that solvent-water enhanced molecular recognition between PD-L1 and nanobody. By combining the analyses of the time-dependent root mean squared fluctuation (RMSF), free energy landscape, clustering and energy decomposition, the potential inhibition mechanism was proposed that the nanobody competitively and specifically bound to the β-sheet groups of PD-L1, reduced the PD-L1’s flexibility and finally blocked the formation of PD-1/PD-L1 complex. Based on the simulation results, site-directed mutagenesis of ND99 (the amino acid residues in Nano are displayed by the lower left sign of N) and NQ116 in the nanobody may be beneficial for improving antibody activity. This work offers some structural guidance for the design and modification of anticancer mAbs based on the structure of the PD-1/PD-L1 complex.
Molecular Cloning and Expression Analysis of Lactate Dehydrogenase from the Oriental River Prawn Macrobrachium nipponense in Response to Hypoxia
Authors: Sun Shengming , Fu Hongtuo , Zhu Jian , Ge Xianping , Wu Xugan , Qiao Hui , Jin Shubo , Zhang Wenyi
Published: July 2018

Metabolic adaption to hypoxic stress in crustaceans implies a shift from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a key enzyme in glycolysis in prawns. However, very little is known about the role of LDH in hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathways of prawns. In this study, full-length cDNA of LDH (MnLDH) was obtained from the oriental river prawn Macrobrachium nipponense, and was characterized. The full-length cDNA is 2267-bp with an open reading frame of 999 bp coding for a protein of 333 amino acids with conserved domains important for function and regulation. Phylogenetic analysis showed that MnLDH is close to LDHs from other invertebrates. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that MnLDH is expressed in various tissues with the highest expression level in muscle. MnLDH mRNA transcript and protein abundance in muscle, but not in hepatopancreas, were induced by hypoxia. Silencing of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) α or HIF-1β subunits blocked the hypoxia-dependent increase of LDH expression and enzyme activity in muscle. A series of MnLDH promoter sequences, especially the full-length promoter, generated an increase in luciferase expression relative to promoterless vector; furthermore, the expression of luciferase was induced by hypoxia. These results demonstrate that MnLDH is probably involved a HIF-1-dependent pathway during hypoxia in the highly active metabolism of muscle.
Evaluation of the Use of TRIzol-Based Protein Extraction Approach for Gel-Based Proteomic Analysis of Dried Seafood Products and Chinese Tonic Foods
Authors: Chan Kin-Ka , Kwok Celia , Sze Eric , Lee Fred
Published: July 2018

Although the emergence of gel-free approaches has greatly enhanced proteomic studies, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) remains one of the most widely used proteomic techniques for its high resolving power, relatively low cost, robustness, and high resolution. Preparation of high-quality protein samples remains the key in high-quality 2-DE for proteomic analysis. Samples with high endogenous levels of interfering molecules, such as salts, nucleic acids, lipids, and polysaccharides, would yield a low-quality 2-DE gel and hinder the analysis. Recently, a TRIzol-based protein extraction method has gained prominence and has attracted attention due to its promising performance in high-quality 2-DE. The authors evaluate the use of this approach for four valuable dried food products, namely two dried seafood products (abalone slices and whelk slices) and two traditional Chinese tonic foods (ganoderma and caterpillar fungus). The results indicate that 2-DE gels obtained through the TRIzol-based method are of high-quality and are comparable to those obtained through the trichloroacetic acid–acetone method in terms of spot number, spot intensity, and resolution. The TRIzol-based method is generally applicable to dried food samples and is simple and fast, which greatly streamlines the protein extraction procedure. Additionally, it enables the concurrent extraction and analysis of RNA, DNA, and protein from the same sample.
Habitat Structure, Quality and Landscape Predict Species Richness and Communities of Collembola in Dry Grasslands in Austria
Authors: Querner Pascal , Milasowszky Norbert , Zulka Klaus Peter , Abensperg-Traun Max , Willner Wolfgang , Sauberer Norbert , Jakomini Christine , Wrbka Thomas , Schmitzberger Ingrid , Zechmeister Harald G.
Published: July 2018

We assessed the relationships between site size, habitat quality, landscape factors (fragmentation, landscape diversity) and species richness in communities of Collembola in 50 small dry grassland habitat patches in an agricultural landscape of eastern Austria. Grasslands in that region were once widespread and extensive, but have become increasingly fragmented and isolated. We hypothesized that dry grassland springtails species richness is significantly correlated with site variables (soil properties, habitat quality) and that the size of grassland sites is positively correlated with species richness. We used pitfall traps in 50 dry grasslands in differently structured agricultural landscapes and tested total abundance and three species richness measures: (1) the number of dry grassland specialist species; (2) total number of dry grassland species and (3) overall species richness. In the multivariate correlation models, we found that all species richness measures were significantly related to the plant species richness, a shape parameter of the sites, soil properties such as humus, temperature, sand and gravel content and the landscape variable reflecting isolation (distance to the nearest large dry grassland area). This landscape variable indicates that neighbouring grasslands are influencing the species richness of the sites. This may be a result of passive wind dispersal across the landscape or historic connection of the small sites with much larger dry grasslands. The size of the site did not show any significant correlation with total, dry grassland specialist, dry grassland generalist or generalist species richness. The small size of Collembola might explain these findings, because they have high population densities even in small patches.
The Dissociation between Adult Intelligence and Personality with Respect to Maltreatment Episodes and Externalizing Behaviors Occurring in Childhood
Authors: Flores-Mendoza Carmen , Escorial Sergio , Herrero Oscar , Colom Roberto
Published: July 2018

Here we analyze the simultaneous relationships among five variables. Two refer to childhood (episodes of various forms of maltreatment and externalizing behaviors), whereas three refer to early adulthood (intelligence, personality, and socialization difficulties). The 120 individuals considered for the present report were invited from the 650 schoolchildren participating in the Longitudinal Study of Intelligence and Personality (Minas Gerais, Brazil). The complete sample was recruited in 2002 (T1; mean age = 10.0; standard deviation (SD) = 2.2) and 120 were tested again in 2014-17 (T2; mean age = 23.5; SD = 2.2). Externalizing behaviors were registered at T1, whereas the remaining variables were obtained at T2. These were the main results: (1) externalizing behaviors predict future social effectiveness (as estimated by the general factor of personality derived from the NEO Personality Inventory-Revised (NEO-PI-R) and socialization difficulties computed from the socialization scale (SOC)) and future intelligence performance (as assessed by a set of fluid and crystallized tests); (2) episodes of self-reported childhood maltreatment predict social effectiveness, but not intelligence; (3) maltreatment and externalizing behaviors are unrelated; and (4) social effectiveness (personality) and intelligence are unrelated. Therefore, the findings support the dissociation between adult intelligence and personality with respect to maltreatment episodes and externalizing behaviors occurring in childhood. Implications of these findings for social policies aimed at preventing adult socially ineffective personalities are underscored.
Relationship between isolation of extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae and course of hospital-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Vitkauskienė Astra , Giedraitienė Agnė , Dudzevičius Vytis , Sakalauskas Raimundas
Published: July 2018

Aim of the study. To evaluate relationship between isolation of extended spectrum beta-lactamaseproducing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains and course of hospital-acquired pneumonia. Materials and methods. K. pneumoniae strains isolated from bronchial secretions or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid samples of patients hospitalized at an intensive care unit of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital were analyzed. By means of synergistic two-antibiotics disc method, K. pneumoniae strains producing extended spectrum beta-lactamases were selected for further analysis using E-test (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden). Hospitalacquired pneumonia was diagnosed based on standard criteria for the diagnosis of pneumonia if signs of pneumonia occurred after 48 hours following admission. Late-onset hospital-acquired pneumonia was considered if these signs of pneumonia occurred on fifth day of hospitalization or later. Results. Total of 45 strains of K. pneumoniae were isolated during the study period; 18 isolated strains produced ESBL. Thirty-two patients investigated have developed hospital-acquired pneumonia, 20 of which were cases of late-onset hospital-acquired pneumonia. Thirteen cases of K. pneumoniae isolation were classified as airway colonization. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing K. pneumoniae strains were more frequently isolated from patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia (88.9%, n=16 and 11.1%, n=2, P<0.05) in comparison with non-producing strains. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing strains were more prevalent in late-onset pneumonia group (93.8%, n=15) than in early-onset group (6.2%, n=1, P<0.001). Conclusions. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing K. pneumoniae strains were more frequently isolated from patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia as compared to colonized patients. Extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing K. pneumoniae strains were more frequently isolated from patients with late-onset hospital-acquired pneumonia.
Modern attitude towards management of laryngopharyngeal form of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Lithuanian clinical practice guidelines for adults
Authors: Šiupšinskienė Nora , Uloza Virgilijus , Pribuišienė Rūta , Butkus Evaldas , Kupčinskas Limas
Published: July 2018

The aim of this article is to introduce Lithuanian clinical practice guidelines for the management of laryngopharyngeal form of gastroesophageal reflux disease for standardization of the diagnosis and treatment of the disease and prevention of its complications. Composed guidelines provide recommendations for primary care physicians as well as otorhinolaryngologists and gastroenterologists for the management of adults with uncomplicated laryngopharyngeal form of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Committee composed of experts from Lithuanian Otorhinolaryngological and Gastroenterological Societies developed guidelines based on a comprehensive review of the evidence-based literature related to laryngopharyngeal form of gastroesophageal reflux disease and guidelines of other countries. The guidelines provide description of each medicine groups with emphasis on proton pump inhibitors as the most effective drugs for the treatment of laryngopharyngeal form of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Indications for empirical treatment with proton pump inhibitors are described, as well as duration of treatment, doses, optimal regimen of use, and assessment of treatment efficacy. The therapy should begin with the application of proton pump inhibitors twice daily, before meal for three months. Combined therapy for nonresponders is described. Algorithm for stopping the medication is recommended. These recommendations may provide an efficient and economical approach to the management of this problem.
Resonant Directly Coupled Inductors–Capacitors Ladder Network Shows a New, Interesting Property Useful for Application in the Sensor Field, Down to Micrometric Dimensions
Authors: D’Amico Arnaldo , Santonico Marco , Pennazza Giorgio , Zompanti Alessandro , Scipioni Emma , Ferri Giuseppe , Stornelli Vincenzo , Salmeri Marcello , Lojacono Roberto
Published: July 2018

The study of ladder networks made by sequences of directly coupled inductor–capacitor single cells has led us to discover a new property, which may be of certain interest in the sensor field. In the case of n cells, the n-frequencies vector characterizing each node may allow for the identification of that capacitor (sensor), which has experienced a variation of its nominal value. This localization is possible independently from the observable node of the ladder network as proven by the application of the following multivariate data analysis techniques: principal component analysis and partial least square discriminant analysis. This property can be applied on a large scale down to micrometric dimensions in agreement with the technologic ability to shrink the capacitive sensor dimensions.
Three-D Mineralogical Mapping of the Kovdor Phoscorite-Carbonatite Complex, NW Russia: II. Sulfides
Authors: Ivanyuk Gregory Yu. , Pakhomovsky Yakov A. , Panikorovskii Taras L. , Mikhailova Julia A. , Kalashnikov Andrei O. , Bazai Ayya V. , Yakovenchuk Victor N. , Konopleva Nataly G. , Goryainov Pavel M.
Published: July 2018

The world largest phoscorite-carbonatite complexes of the Kovdor (Russia) and Palabora (South Africa) alkaline-ultrabasic massifs have comparable composition, structure and metallogenic specialization, and can be considered close relatives. Distribution of rock-forming sulfides within the Kovdor phoscorite-carbonatite complex reflects gradual concentric zonation of the pipe: pyrrhotite with exsolution inclusions of pentlandite in marginal (apatite)-forsterite phoscorite, pyrrhotite with exsolution inclusions of cobaltpentlandite in intermediate low-carbonate magnetite-rich phoscorite and chalcopyrite (±pyrrhotite with exsolution inclusions of cobaltpentlandite) in axial carbonate-rich phoscorite and phoscorite-related carbonatite. Chalcopyrite (with relicts of earlier bornite and exsolution inclusions of cubanite and mackinawite) predominates in the axial carbonate-bearing phoscorite and carbonatite, where it crystallizes around grains of pyrrhotite (with inclusions of pentlandite-cobaltpentlandite and pyrite), and both of these minerals contain exsolution inclusions of sphalerite. In natural sequence of the Kovdor rocks, iron content in pyrrhotite gradually increases from Fe7S8 (pyrrhotite-4C, Imm2) to Fe9S10 (pyrrhotite-5C, C2 and P21) and Fe11S12 (pyrrhotite-6C) due to gradual decrease of crystallization temperature and oxygen fugacity. Low-temperature pyrrhotite 2C (troilite) occurs as lens-like exsolition inclusions in grains of pyrrhotite-4C (in marginal phoscorite) and pyrrhotite-5C (in axial phoscorite-related carbonatite). Within the phoscorite-carbonatite complex, Co content in pyrrhotite gradually increases from host silicate rocks and marginal forsterite-dominant phoscorite to axial carbonate-rich phoscorite and carbonatite at the expense of Ni and Fe. Probably, this dependence reflects a gradually decreasing temperature of the primary monosulfide solid solutions crystallization from the pipe margin toward its axis. The Kovdor and Loolekop phoscorite-carbonatite pipes in the Palabora massif have similar sequences of sulfide formation, and the copper specialization of the Palabora massif can be caused by higher water content in its initial melt allowing it to dissolve much larger amounts of sulfur and, correspondingly, chalcophile metals.
Radical Scavenging and Antioxidant Activity of Anthyllis Vulneraria Leaves and Flowers
Authors: Ouerfelli Manel , Bettaieb Ben Kâab Leila , Almajano María Pilar
Published: July 2018

The main targets of this work were to determine the phenolic content of Anthyllis vulneraria (A. vulneraria) leaves and flowers and to evaluate their antioxidant activity. Total polyphenols and flavonoid content (TPC and TFC, respectively) were determined. Antioxidant capacity was evaluated by the Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC), the Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity (TEAC) and the diphenyl picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, and by the analysis of primary and secondary oxidation products in oil-in-water emulsions and in raw beef patties during storage. The results revealed that the flowers of the A. vulneraria contained the highest content of total polyphenols and flavonoids and extracts from these tissues exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity, as they were more effective at retarding lipid oxidation in oil-in-water emulsions and raw beef patties than extracts from the leaves which had a potent antioxidant effect only at the beginning of the oxidation process. The results of this study allowed us to obtain a deep knowledge about the properties of A. vulneraria and confirmed the possibility of using its biologically active extracts in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.
Theoretical Studies on Catalysis Mechanisms of Serum Paraoxonase 1 and Phosphotriesterase Diisopropyl Fluorophosphatase Suggest the Alteration of Substrate Preference from Paraoxonase to DFP
Authors: Zhang Hao , Yang Ling , Ma Ying-Ying , Zhu Chaoyuan , Lin Shenghsien , Liao Rong-Zhen
Published: July 2018

The calcium-dependent β-propeller proteins mammalian serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and phosphotriesterase diisopropyl fluorophosphatase (DFPase) catalyze the hydrolysis of organophosphorus compounds and enhance hydrolysis of various nerve agents. In the present work, the phosphotriesterase activity development between PON1 and DFPase was investigated by using the hybrid density functional theory method B3LYP. Based on the active-site difference between PON1 and DFPase, both the wild type and the mutant (a water molecule replacing Asn270 in PON1) models were designed. The results indicated that the substitution of a water molecule for Asn270 in PON1 had little effect on the enzyme activity in kinetics, while being more efficient in thermodynamics, which is essential for DFP hydrolysis. Structure comparisons of evolutionarily related enzymes show that the mutation of Asn270 leads to the catalytic Ca2+ ion indirectly connecting the buried structural Ca2+ ion via hydrogen bonds in DFPase. It can reduce the plasticity of enzymatic structure, and possibly change the substrate preference from paraoxon to DFP, which implies an evolutionary transition from mono- to dinuclear catalytic centers. Our studies shed light on the investigation of enzyme catalysis mechanism from an evolutionary perspective.
Urtica spp.: Ordinary Plants with Extraordinary Properties
Authors: Kregiel Dorota , Pawlikowska Ewelina , Antolak Hubert
Published: July 2018

Nettles (genus Urtica, family Urticaceae) are of considerable interest as preservatives in foods for both human and animal consumption. They have also been used for centuries in traditional medicine. This paper reviews the properties of nettles that make them suitable for wider applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Nettles contain a significant number of biologically-active compounds. For example, the leaves are rich sources of terpenoids, carotenoids and fatty acids, as well as of various essential amino acids, chlorophyll, vitamins, tannins, carbohydrates, sterols, polysaccharides, isolectins and minerals. Extracts from the aerial parts of nettles are rich sources of polyphenols, while the roots contain oleanol acid, sterols and steryl glycosides. Due to the variety of phytochemicals and their proportions they contain, nettles show noticeable activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. These properties make nettles suitable for a range of possible applications, including functional food, dietary supplements and pharmacological formulations. Despite these benefits, the nettle is still an underestimated plant source. This paper provides a unique overview of the latest research on nettle plants focusing on the possibilities for transforming a common weed into a commercial plant with a wide range of applications. Special attention is paid to the antimicrobial activity of the active compounds in nettles and to possible uses of these valuable plants in food and feed formulations.
Interleukin-33: Its Emerging Role in Allergic Diseases
Authors: Ding Wen , Zou Gui-Lin , Zhang Wei , Lai Xing-Ning , Chen Hou-Wen , Xiong Li-Xia
Published: July 2018

Allergic diseases, which include asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR), chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), atopic dermatitis (AD), food allergy (FA), allergic keratoconjunctivitis, seriously affect the quality of life of people all over the world. Recently, interleukin-33 (IL-33) has been found to play an important role in these refractory disorders, mainly by inducing T helper (Th) 2 immune responses. This article reviews the mobilization and biological function of IL-33 in allergic disorders, providing novel insights for addressing these hypersensitive conditions.
Spectroscopical Investigations on the Redox Chemistry of [FeFe]-Hydrogenases in the Presence of Carbon Monoxide
Authors: Laun Konstantin , Mebs Stefan , Duan Jifu , Wittkamp Florian , Apfel Ulf-Peter , Happe Thomas , Winkler Martin , Haumann Michael , Stripp Sven T.
Published: July 2018

[FeFe]-hydrogenases efficiently catalyzes hydrogen conversion at a unique [4Fe–4S]-[FeFe] cofactor, the so-called H-cluster. The catalytic reaction occurs at the diiron site, while the [4Fe–4S] cluster functions as a redox shuttle. In the oxidized resting state (Hox), the iron ions of the diiron site bind one cyanide (CN−) and carbon monoxide (CO) ligand each and a third carbonyl can be found in the Fe–Fe bridging position (µCO). In the presence of exogenous CO, A fourth CO ligand binds at the diiron site to form the oxidized, CO-inhibited H-cluster (Hox-CO). We investigated the reduced, CO-inhibited H-cluster (Hred´-CO) in this work. The stretching vibrations of the diatomic ligands were monitored by attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR FTIR). Density functional theory (DFT) at the TPSSh/TZVP level was employed to analyze the cofactor geometry, as well as the redox and protonation state of the H-cluster. Selective 13CO isotope editing, spectro-electrochemistry, and correlation analysis of IR data identified a one-electron reduced, protonated [4Fe–4S] cluster and an apical CN− ligand at the diiron site in Hred´-CO. The reduced, CO-inhibited H-cluster forms independently of the sequence of CO binding and cofactor reduction, which implies that the ligand rearrangement at the diiron site upon CO inhibition is independent of the redox and protonation state of the [4Fe–4S] cluster. The relation of coordination dynamics to cofactor redox and protonation changes in hydrogen conversion catalysis and inhibition is discussed.