bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crop Modeling Applications in Agricultural Water Management
Authors: Kisekka Isaya , DeJonge Kendall C. , Ma Liwang , Paz Joel , Douglas-Mankin Kyle
Published: December 2017

Abstract.

This article introduces the fourteen articles that comprise the “Crop Modeling and Decision Support for Optimizing Use of Limited Water” collection. This collection was developed from a special session on crop modeling applications in agricultural water management held at the 2016 ASABE Annual International Meeting (AIM) in Orlando, Florida. In addition, other authors who were not able to attend the 2016 ASABE AIM were also invited to submit papers. The articles summarized in this introductory article demonstrate a wide array of applications in which crop models can be used to optimize agricultural water management. The following section titles indicate the topics covered in this collection: (1) evapotranspiration modeling (one article), (2) model development and parameterization (two articles), (3) application of crop models for irrigation scheduling (five articles), (4) coordinated water and nutrient management (one article), (5) soil water management (two articles), (6) risk assessment of water-limited irrigation management (one article), and (7) regional assessments of climate impact (two articles). Changing weather and climate, increasing population, and groundwater depletion will continue to stimulate innovations in agricultural water management, and crop models will play an important role in helping to optimize water use in agriculture. Keywords: Agricultural water management, Crop modeling, Evapotranspiration, Irrigation, Irrigation scheduling.
Précis
Authors: Giese Francine
Published: December 2017

ISLAMIC ART HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGY IN CRISIS? CHALLENGES AND NEW PERSPECTIVES, INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE, MADRID, GERMAN ARCHAEOLOGICAL INSTITUTE/UNIVERSIDAD AUTÓNOMA DE MADRID/MUSEO ARCHEOLÓGICO NACIONAL, JANUARY 12–15, 2017
A SYNOPSIS OF CALAMUS (ARECACEAE) IN SULAWESI
Authors: RUSTIAMI HIMMAH , Henderson Andrew
Published: December 2017

RUSTIAMI, H. & HENDERSON, A. 2017. A synopsis of Calamus (Arecaceae) in Sulawesi. Reinwardtia 16 (2): 49-63. - A synopsis of the rattan genus Calamus in the Indonesian island of Sulawesi is given. Twenty-three species are recognized, including two new species that are described and illustrated: Calamus posoanus and C. sandsii. Nomencla-ture, including designation of 17 lectotypes, is given for each species, as well as notes on distribution, habitat, vernacu-lar names, specimens examined, uses, and systematics.
DENDROBIUM TINUKARIENSIS, A NEW SPECIES OF SECTION CALYPTROCHILUS FROM THE MEKONGGA MOUNTAINS, SOUTHEAST SULAWESI, INDONESIA
Authors: Sulistiarini Diah , Potter Daniel , O'Byrne Peter
Published: December 2017

SULISTIARINI, D., POTTER, D. & O’BYRNE, P. 2017. Dendrobium tinukariensis, a new species of section Calyptrochilus from Mekongga Mountains, South East Sulawesi, Indonesia. Reinwardtia 16 (2): 103–106. — A new species of Dendrobium (Orchidaceae), D. tinukariensis is described and illustrated from Mekongga, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. It belongs in Dendrobium sect. Calyptrochilus.
PHYTOSOCIOLOGY OF A LOWER MONTANE FOREST ON MT. BATULANTEH, SUMBAWA, INDONESIA
Authors: Mansur Muhammad , Kartawinata Kuswata
Published: December 2017

MANSUR, M & KARTAWINATA, K. 2017. Phytosociology of a Lower Montane Forest on Mt. Batulanteh, Sumbawa, Indonesia. Reinwardtia 16 (2): 77-92. — While Indonesia’s forests are globally known for their high species diversity but many regions remain little known to investigate the tree community in a lower montane forest at Mt. Batulanteh in Sumbawa. We subjectively laid out plots of 1,800 m2 each, two in secondary forests and one in a disturbed primary forest. All stems over 5 cm diameters were measured and identified. In the plot of 0,54 hectare, we recorded 723 individuals, representing 78 species, 60 genera and 33 families. Estimated volume of boles was 183.2 m3/0.54 ha, biomass was 220.1 tons/0.54 ha, carbon stock was 110.0 tons/0.54 ha and CO2 sequestration was 403.1 ton/0.54 ha. The forest at Mt. Batulanteh is classified as Garcinia-Cryptocarya association consisting of Micromelum-Cinnamomum subassociation. Dipterocarpus-Calophyllum subassociation and Garcinia-Syzygium subassociation. Dominant species were Micromelum minutum (IV=27.24), Mallotus philippensis (IV=26.2), Cryptocarya ferrea (IV=24.71) and Cinnamomum burmanni (IV=23.81) in Plot 1, Dipterocarpus retusus (IV=77.4) and Calophyllum soulattri (IV=24.21) in Plot 2, and Garcinia celebica (IV=34.86) and Syzygium sp. 1 (IV=34.76) in Plot 3. Dipterocarpus retusus was unique of having restricted distribution. Fagaceae, typical family in montane forests, was absent. Shannon’s diversity index was low (H '= 1.61). It can be concluded that the plots do not constitute a representative of Mt. Batulanteh and the surrounding forests, but they were sufficient to provide an illustration of the forests locally. The diameter class distribution indicated that the forests were regenerating. They were developing secondary forest and regenerating disturbed primary forest; slow successions were in the process and could be enhancedby ecological restoration. Further botanical explorations in poorly known regions of Sumbawa should be intensified further.
TYPIFICATION OF TECTARIA PARADOXA (POLYPODIACEAE SUB-FAM. TECTARIOIDEAE)
Authors: Mazumdar Jaideep
Published: December 2017

MAZUMDAR, J. 2017. Typification of Tectaria paradoxa (Polypodiaceae subfam. Tectarioideae). Reinwardtia 16(2): 93?95. — Aspidium paradoxum has not yet been lectotypified, because the original material is ambiguous. A specimen from the collections of A. Fée, the author of the species, was located in the herbarium of Montpellier (MPU), which is here designated as the lectotype for this species. It is now known as Tectaria paradoxa, a fern species widely distributed across tropical Asia.
A Contribuição do Empreendedorismo para o Crescimento Econômico dos Estados Brasileiros
Authors: De Almeida Fernanda Maria , Valadares Josiel Lopes , Sediyama Gislaine Aparecida Santana
Published: December 2017

Devido às evidentes desigualdades interestaduais e inter-regionais relativas ao desempenho econômico dos estados brasileiros, objetivou-se com este estudo compreender os efeitos do empreendedorismo sobre o crescimento econômico do Brasil e verificar se tais efeitos se diferem entre os estados. Para este fim, estimou-se um modelo por dados em painel dinâmico com o Método dos Momentos Generalizados (GMM) e efeitos fixos com as variáveis “PIB per capita, número de trabalhadores por conta própria, volume de comércio internacional, população, despesas governamentais, analfabetismo e despesas de capital”, dos 26 estados do Brasil mais o Distrito Federal. O período foi de 2001 a 2011, devido à disponibilidade de dados para todas as variáveis. Constatou-se que, seja por inovação ou por promoção de novos negócios, o empreendedorismo é um fator de crescimento econômico, além de ser complementar aos outros fatores determinantes; tem papel semelhante para todos os estados, independente se o estado tem maior ou menor tamanho econômico; e que seus efeitos sobre o crescimento das Unidades da Federação são, no geral, homogêneos e positivos. Assim, conclui-se que no caso dos estados do Brasil, mesmo para os mais pobres, o empreendedorismo mostrou-se favorável ao crescimento econômico.
Empreendedorismo e Vinculação Social: Análise a partir de Organizações Religiosas
Authors: Correa Victor Silva
Published: December 2017

A presente investigação insere-se na literatura sobre redes sociais, em particular, sobre a temática do acoplamento e desacoplamento. Enquanto que acoplamento sugere agrupamentos dotados de fortes interações entre atores, desacoplamento, por sua vez, alude para estruturas cujas características estimulam membros a distanciarem de pessoas não imersas. Nesta literatura, prevalece duas noções fundamentais: a primeira é a de que o adequado equilíbrio entre acoplamento e desacoplamento seria considerado fundamental ao desenvolvimento de empreendimentos produtivos. A segunda, de particular relevância, é a de que apenas um tipo de empreendedor, o emigrante, consegue tal atributo. No entanto, isso pode não explicar tudo. Outros tipos de empreendedorismo, ainda hoje pouco explorados por pesquisadores da administração, poderiam se inserir aí. Este artigo, de natureza teórico-empírica, insere-se justamente neste contexto. Busca investigar a dinâmica do acoplamento e desacoplamento sociais a partir do contexto do empreendedorismo religioso. Ao fazer isto, projeta luzes para novas reflexões teóricas, avançando na literatura sobre acoplamento e desacoplamento sociais.
Compensatory Entrepreneurship: Avoiding the Pitfalls of Global Isomorphic Entrepreneurship Research and Activities
Authors: Honig Benson
Published: December 2017

Entrepreneurship promotion is a ubiquitous activity, promoted world-wide as offering solutions ranging from economic development to poverty reduction and mobility. This paper examines the research literature suggesting learning opportunities that might be provided to Brazilian scholars and practitioners. The paper also introduces a new concept in entrepreneurship: that of compensatory entrepreneurship. It is defined as the political endorsement of entrepreneurial promotion activities, including training, incubation, and media dissemination, for the primary objective of maintaining political and/or economic control of one population over another. The paper provides examples and suggestions for developing a uniquely effective mode of Brazilian entrepreneurship development.
CATALYTIC OZONATION OF HARDWOOD PULP
Authors: Мухрыгин (Mukhrygin) Кирилл (Kirill) Сергеевич (Sergeevich) , Демин (Demin) Валерий (Valerij) Анатольевич (Anatol'evich)
Published: December 2017

First influence of variable valence metal ions on the ozonation process of hardwood pulp was investigated. The oxidative delignification and destruction process of hardwood pulp by ozone treatment of water suspension and ozone treatment in gas phase in the presence of ions Mn2+, Cr3+ и Fe2 by UV-spectrophotometry, IR-spectroscopy and viscosimetry methods was studied. It was showed, that addition of variable valence metal ions into the reaction mixture increased delignification depth in 1,1–1,6 times (Fe2+– Cr3+) under intensive pulp suspension mixing, and in 2,3 times (Mn2+) at insufficient mixing conditions (ozone-air mixture bubbling). The higher value of delignification depth was reached in the presence of variable valence metal ions – 39,8%. It was obtained that delignification depth was higher under the gas phase ozonation, than under the pulp suspension ozone treatment: till 62,1% without catalyst and till 67,5% in the presence of Mn2+ ions. Cellulose degradation increased with ions Mn2+, Cr3+ and Fe2+ concentration rising in the reaction mixture. Degree of polymerization varied from 1050 to 650, 720 and 800, respectively. IR-spectres of ozonated pulp are studied.
EXTRACTS OF POPLARS BALSAMIC AS GROWTH REGULATORS OF SPRING WHEAT
Authors: Калюта (Kalyuta) Елена (Elena) Владимировна (Vladimirovna) , Мальцев (Maltsev) Михаил (Mihail) Ильич (Il'ich) , Шепелева (Shepeleva) Ольга (Ol'ga) Васильевна (Vasil'evna) , Исаева (Isayeva) Елена (Elena) Владимировна (Vladimirovna)
Published: December 2017

The influence of different extracts obtained from leaves and buds of the poplars balsamic Populus balzamifera (water-soluble substances of the leaves, essential oil kidney and alcoholic extract of the kidneys), growing in the Krasnoyarsk territory, on the growth and development of spring wheat varieties Omskaya 36 in laboratory and field conditions is studied. Water-soluble substances leaves was isolated by the method of hot water extraction, alcoholic extract – ethyl alcohol under optimum conditions, the essential oil is by steam distillation. The obtained extracts from the vegetative parts of poplar researched generally accepted in chemistry of vegetable raw materials methods. Found that all prepared from extracts of poplar water emulsions affect the germination of seeds in laboratory conditions and on the initial growth (germination), and biological yield of spring wheat varieties Omskaya 36 in the field. The greatest positive impact on the productivity of wheat in the field had only emulsion based water-soluble substances leaves of the poplars balsamic with a concentration of 0,5 g/L. Increasing the drug concentration 10 times inhibited plant growth. Carbohydrates, amino acids and mineral components contained in the extract, presumably had a cumulative effect on seed germination and showed regulatory activity.
FRUITS OF SORBUS AUCUPARIA L. ARE SOURCE DRUG FOR INCREASE OF TUMORS EFFECTIVENESS CHEM-OTHERAPY
Authors: Исайкина (Isaikina) Надежда (Nadezhda) Валентиновна (Valentinovna) , Калинкина (Kalinkina) Галина (Galina) Ильинична (Il'inichna) , Разина (Razina) Татьяна (Tat'jana) Георгиевна (Georgievna) , Зуева (Zueva) Елена (Elena) Петровна (Petrovna) , Рыбалкина (Rybalkina) Ольга (Ol'ga) Юрьевна (Yur'evna) , Ульрих (Ulirich) Алина (Alina) Валерьевна (Valer'evna) , Фёдорова (Fedorova) Елена (Elena) Павловна (Pavlovna) , Шилова (Shilova) Анна (Anna) Борисовна (Borisovna)
Published: December 2017

The composition of phenolic compounds of extracts of rowanberry (Sorbus aucuparia L.) fruit, prepared with 40% ethanol and 95% acidified ethanol was studied. Differences in the content of flavonoids, including anthocyanins, and phenolic acids have been established. It was found that the most efficiently increases the antimetastatic activity of cyclophosphamide extract of rowan fungi on 95% acidified ethanol enriched with anthocyanins. The purpose of the study was to: study the effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of rowan fungi on the development of Lewis lung carcinoma and the antitumor activity of cyclophosphamide; to reveal the most effective extract containing a phenolic complex, for further study as a promising drug.
EFFECT OF MICROWAVE IRRADIATION ON ARABINOGALACTAN AND ITS INTERACTION WITH BETULIN DIACETATE
Authors: Маляр (Malyar) Юрий (Yurij) Николаевич (Nikolaevich) , Михайленко (Mikhailenko) Михаил (Mihail) Александрович (Aleksandrovich) , Панкрушина (Pankrushina) Наталья (Natal'ja) Алексеевна (Alekseevna) , Михеев (Mikheev) Александр (Aleksandr) Николаевич (Nikolaevich) , Кузнецова (Kuznetsova) Светлана (Svetlana) Алексеевна (Alekseevna) , Шахтшнейдер (Shakhtshneider) Татьяна (Tat'jana) Петровна (Petrovna)
Published: December 2017

Betulin diacetate (BDA) has a variety of biological activities, but poor solubility in water limits its application. The use of arabinogalactan (AG) as a complexing agent is a promising method for solving the problem of solubilization of drugs. In this work, influence of microwave (MW) irradiation on the properties of AG and BDA and their interaction in the aqueous suspension with formation of a water-soluble supramolecular complex was studied. It is shown that the MW heating of AG under hard conditions can lead to degradation of the biopolymer. The use of MW heating allowed significantly reducing the complex preparation time compared to the conventional synthesis in a water bath. The preliminary mechanical treatment of the mixture of components, leading to the formation of mechanocomposites, inhibited the reaction between the components in the aqueous suspension under MW irradiation. The IR spectroscopy method has shown that a supramolecular complex formed under MW irradiation similar to that formed by conventional heating. BDA-AG complex was isolated from a MW heated solution as a thin film, which may be a promising material for pharmaceutical applications.
DETERMINATION OF DEGREE OF SUBSTITUTION (DS) AND MOLAR SUBSTITUTION (MS) OF CELLULOSE ETHERS BY SOLID-STATE 13C NMR SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Кострюков (Kostriukov) Сергей (Sergej) Геннадьевич (Gennad'evich) , Арасланкин (Araslankin) Сергей (Sergej) Валерьевич (Valer'evich) , Петров (Petrov) Павел (Pavel) Сергеевич (Sergeevich)
Published: December 2017

The work is devoted to determining the substitution parameters of some commercial cellulose ethers by solid-state 13C NMR spectroscopy. The substitution parameters are the degree of substitution (DS) and molar substitution (MS). The objects of study are commercial additives based on hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) and hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC). In this paper, the degree of substitution (DS) and molar substitution (MS) were determined, and the distribution of the substituents at positions C-2, C-3 and C-6 of the glucopyranose link was established. The calculation of the degree of substitution (DS) and molar substitution (MS) is based on an analysis of relative intensity values of the spectral regions in the solid-state NMR spectra of cellulose ethers and microcrystalline cellulose. Thus the degree of substitution and molar substitution was determined: MSHEC = 1,41 иDSHEC = 1,08; MSHPMC = 0,69 и DSHPMC = 1,78; MSHEMC = 0,74иDSHEMC = 2,19. Comparison of the results with the literature data shows the effectiveness of the method. The proposed method differs from other existing methods in that it is a simple and informative.
ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION OF FRUITS OF VACCINIUM VITIS-IDAEA L. AND OXYCOCCUS PALUSTRIS PERS.
Authors: Цыбукова (Tsybukova) Татьяна (Tat'jana) Николаевна (Nikolaevna) , Петрова (Petrova) Елена (Elena) Васильевна (Vasil'evna) , Рабцевич (Rabcevich) Евгения (Evgenija) Сергеевна (Sergeevna) , Зейле (Zejle) Любовь (Ljubov') Андреевна (Andreevna) , Тихонова (Tihonova) Ольга (Ol'ga) Кенсориновна (Kensorinovna) , Агашева (Agasheva) Екатерина (Ekaterina) Андреевна (Andreevna)
Published: December 2017

In medicine, the fruits of Vaccinium vitis ideaea L. and Oxycoccus palustrie Pers. are widely used. Vaccinium fruits possess antioxidant, expectorant, diuretic, antitumour and hypercathartic action. Oxycoccus fruits have antioxidant, diuretic, antifebrile and antioxidant effect. These qualities depend on a complex of biologically active substances such as vitamins, hormones, macro- and micronutrients. Macro- and micronutrients contained in fruits are able to prevent the nutrient deficit which can cause some hard diseases. At the same time knowledge of toxic elements gives us information about pollution degree of studied fruits. Therefore, the aim of our study was qualitative detection and quantitative determination of element composition of fruits of Vaccinium vitis ideaea L. and Oxycoccus palustrie Pers, picked in Western Siberia (Tomsk oblast, Tomsk region). Determination of elemental composition was performed by methods of neutron activation analysis, atomic emission spectroscopy and mass spectrometry.  Studied samples contain important nutrients which are found in vitamins and nutritional supplements, widely used in officinal and traditional medicine and in industry.
COMPARATIVE STUDY OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS COMPOSITION AND CONTENT IN LEAVES OF THE GE-NUS NITRARIA (NITRARIACEAE) PLANTS
Authors: Воронкова (Voronkova) Мария (Marija) Сергеевна (Sergeevna) , Банаев (Banaev) Евгений (Evgenij) Викторович (Viktorovich) , Томошевич (Tomoshevich) Мария (Marija) Анатольевна (Anatol'evna)
Published: December 2017

The content and composition of phenolic compounds in leaves of 3 Nitraria L. species from 12 populations have been studied with a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The investigation has detected 17 phenolic compounds, the maximum number of components is 12 indicated in leaves of N. pamirica L. Vassil. and N. schoberi L. plants in 2 populations, the minimum – 6 components – has been revealed in leaves of N. komarovii Iljin et Lava. Hyperoside (O-glycoside of quercetin), narcissin (O-glycoside of isoramnetin), quercetin (flavonol) and luteolin (flavon) have been identified. Studied plants accumulate a significant amount of phenolic compounds. Their content reaches 2,57% in leaves of N. schoberi L., 3,96% in N. komarovii. It was marked seasonal dynamics of a number of substances, in particular, lower narcissin content during plants fruiting compared to a flowering stage. The study results allow making an assumption of species peculiarities of phenolic compounds composition and content in N. schoberi and N. komarovii. The components composition is poorer in extracts of N. komarovii leaves, however, they shows higher content of total phenolic compounds compared with N. schoberi plants. At the same time N. pamirica sample is close to N. schoberi one based on a multivariate analysis of phenolic compounds composition and content.
PHYTOECDYSTEROIDS OF SERRATULA L. AND KLASEA CASS. GENERA: CHEMODIVERSITY, METHODS OF ISOLATION AND ANALYSIS
Authors: Оленников (Olennikov) Даниил (Daniil) Николаевич (Nikolaevich) , Кащенко (Kashchenko) Нина (Nina) Игоревна (Igorevna)
Published: December 2017

Serratula L. and Klasea Cass. are two systematically related genera of Asteraceae family containing phytoecdysteroids, a group of natural terpene compounds with various biological activity. Beginning from the 1970s, 76 phytoecdysteroids were isolated and identified in 13 species of Serratula and 5 species of Klasea. This review presented information on the chemodiversity of phytoecdysteroids of Serratula and Klasea genera and their occurrence in individual species. It was shown that the structural features of Serratula and Klasea phytoecdysteroids include the presence of a complete side chain at C-20 atom as well as 5 to 7 hydroxyl groups. Among the species studied, the most investigated were S. coronata, S. tinctoria and S. chinensis with 50, 21 and 19 known compounds, respectively. Also in the review the information on the methods of extraction, isolation and analysis of phytoecdysteroids of the Serratula and Klasea genera was included. The special attention was paid to the data on chromatographic separation of phytoecdysteroids using column, thin-layer and high-performance liquid chromatography on the various sorbents. The information presented in the review demonstrated the perspectiveness of Serratula and Klasea species as sources of phytoecdysteroids.
THE STUDY OF THERMAL IMPACT ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF ASPEN WOOD AND BARK
Authors: Микова(Mikova) Надежда (Nadezhda) Михайловна (Mikhailovna)) , Фетисова (Fetisova) Ольга (Ol'ga) Юрьевна (Yur'evna) , Иванов (Ivanov) Иван (Ivan) Петрович (Petrovich) , Павленко (Pavlenko) Нина (Nina) Ивановна (Ivanovna) , Чесноков (Chesnokov) Николай (Nikolaj) Васильевич (Vasil'evich)
Published: December 2017

Thermal gravimetry analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), FT-IR spectroscopy, and thermal adsorption of nitrogen (BET) methods were used to study the thermal destruction of woody biomass of aspen (bark and wood) in argon and air in the temperature range from 25 to 800 °C. The composition and properties of the products obtained as a result of thermal decomposition of the initial wood biopolymers are characterized. It is established that the main range of thermal decomposition of wood in an inert medium included an interval from 227 to 500 °C, and aspen bark covered a temperature range from 180 to 600 °C. In the air atmosphere, the temperature zone of thermal decomposition narrows, the loss of mass of matter is observed in two temperature intervals of preferential decomposition of the substance with a shift toward a decrease in the maximum rate of decomposition for the bark (~40 °C), and for wood – 34,6 °C.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF PLANT RAW MATERIAL IRIS SIBIRICA L.
Authors: Тихомирова (Tikhomirova) Людмила (Ljudmila) Ивановна (Ivanovna) , Базарнова (Bazarnova) Наталья (Natal'ja) Григорьевна (Grigor'evna) , Синицына (Sinitsyna) Анастасия (Anastasija) Александровна (Aleksandrovna) , Афанасенкова (Afanasenkova) Ирина (Irina) Владимировна (Vladimirovna)
Published: December 2017

Species of the genus Iris in the scientific literature, recognized as rich sources of secondary metabolites. However, in chemical terms, Iris sibirica L. is poorly understood. The purpose of this study is a comparative analysis of the chemical composition of plant material of Iris sibirica L. to optimize the timing of collection in the conditions of Altai region.The object used samples of leaves and rhizomes and roots of I. sibirica varieties Cambridge and Sterkh variety, harvested in the vicinity of the city of Novoaltaisk.As a result of these tests the ash content from I. sibirica spring collection 1,3 times more than in autumn. The method of emission spectrometry revealed the presence of 26 elements. Of them macro – 4, microelements and ultramicroelements 8 – 14. Regardless of the variety of plant organs as observed the accumulation of Al. In a raw spring collection piling up Ba and Zn, and in the fall of Sr and Mn. In the studied samples I. sibirica cultivars Siberian crane Cambridge and the concentration of Cu, Pb, Cd, Cr and As exceeded the permissible level for dietary Supplements and tea on plant-basedWith the aim of obtaining flavonoids plant I. sibirica better harvest in the spring, and for optimal coumarins is the autumn collection. Tannins more is accumulated in the rhizomes with roots, and triterpenoid glycosides in the grass. The yield of essential oil from I. sibirica depends on weather conditions of vegetation period, time of procurement of raw materials and on plants and can be increased by 2–3 times.The study of element distribution and synthesized biologically active substances in the process of development of I. sibirica cultivars Siberian crane and Cambridge during the vegetation period has allowed to identify the vegetative phase with maximum accumulation, and organs of plants, accumulation of these biologically active substances.
Toxic effects of plastic on human health and environment : A consequences of health risk assessment in Bangladesh
Authors: Proshad Ram , Kormoker Tapos , Islam Md. Saiful , Haque Mohammad Asadul , Rahman Md. Mahfuzur , Mithu Md. Mahabubur Rahman
Published: December 2017

Plastics are used widely everywhere in our life and without plastic, modern civilization would indeed look very diverse. This study focuses on the toxic effects of plastic on human health and environment and possible consequences of health risk assessment in Bangladesh. Plastics are essential materials in modern civilization, and many products manufactured from plastics and in numerous cases, they promote risks to human health and the environment. Plastics are contained many chemical and hazardous substances such as Bisphenol A (BPA), thalates, antiminitroxide, brominated flame retardants, and poly- fluorinated chemicals etc. which are a serious risk factor for human health and environment. Plastics are being used by Bangladeshi people without knowing the toxic effects of plastic on human health and environment. Different human health problems like irritation in the eye, vision failure, breathing difficulties, respiratory problems, liver dysfunction, cancers, skin diseases, lungs problems, headache, dizziness, birth effect, reproductive, cardiovascular, genotoxic, and gastrointestinal causes for using toxic plastics. Plastics occur serious environment pollution such as soil pollution, water pollution, and air pollution. Application of proper rules and regulations for the production and use of plastics can reduce toxic effects of plastics on human health and environment.
Both sides of the saffronâ€™s coin
Authors: Islam Muhammad
Published: December 2017

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), a popular traditionally-used compound is known for its promising beneficial health effects. However, it has been reported to have a number of toxic effects in human and other animals. This paper aims to summarize saffronâ€™s beneficial and toxic effects. The findings suggest that sufficient precautions are needed in using saffron and its constituents as they have both beneficial and toxicological impacts on human.Â
Solution focused thinking in education faculty students
Eğitim fakültesi öğrencilerinde çözüm odaklı düşünme ve empati
Authors: Karahan Faika Şanal , Bakalım Orkide , Yoleri Sibel
Published: December 2017

This research was conducted to examine the solution-focused thinking and empathy levels of the faculty of education students. The study group consists of 253 students (184 females, 69 males). Findings show that there is a significant relationship between the solution-focused thinking (problem disengagement, resource activation, goal-orientation) and empathy levels (social skills, emotional reactivity, cognitive empathy) of the students. On the other hand, significant differences are found in the solution-focused thinking and empathy levels of the students in accordance with the gender and study field variables. Finally, the findings show that resource activation and goal-orientation, as sub-dimensions of solution-focused thinking, are significant predictors of empathy levels of students.Extended English abstract is in the end of Full Text PDF (TURKISH) file. ÖzetBu araştırma eğitim fakültesi öğrencilerinin çözüm odaklı düşünme ve empati düzeylerini incelemek amacıyla gerçekleştirilmiştir. Çalışma grubunu 253 (184 kız; 69 erkek) öğrenci oluşturmuştur. Elde edilen bulgular, öğrencilerin çözüm odaklı düşünme (problemden ayırma, kaynakları harekete geçirme, hedefe yönelim)  ve empati düzeyleri (sosyal beceriler, duygusal tepki, bilişsel empati) arasında anlamlı ilişki olduğunu göstermiştir. Diğer yandan, öğrencilerin, çözüm odaklı düşünme ve empati düzeylerinde cinsiyet ve alan değişkenine göre anlamlı farklar bulunmuştur. Son olarak elde edilen bulgular, çözüm odaklı düşünmenin alt boyutlarından kaynakları harekete geçirme ve hedefe yönelim’in öğrencilerin empati düzeylerinin anlamlı yordayıcıları olduğunu göstermiştir.
Plant remains from the Middle–Late Jurassic Daohugou site of the Yanliao Biota in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Pott Christian , Jiang Baoyu
Published: December 2017

A late Middle–early Late Jurassic fossil plant assemblage recently excavated from two Callovian–Oxfordian sites in the vicinity of the Daohugou fossil locality in eastern Inner Mongolia, China, was analysed in detail. The Daohugou fossil assemblage is part of the Callovian–Kimmeridgian Yanliao Biota of north-eastern China. Most major plant groups thriving at that time could be recognized. These include ferns, caytonialeans, bennettites, ginkgophytes, czekanowskialeans and conifers. All fossils were identified and compared with species from adjacent coeval floras. Considering additional material from three collections housed at major palaeontological institutions in Beijing, Nanjing and Pingyi, and a recent account in a comprehensive book on the Daohugou Biota, the diversity of the assemblage is completed by algae, mosses, lycophytes, sphenophytes and putative cycads. The assemblage is dominated by tall-growing gymnosperms such as ginkgophytes, czekanowskialeans and bennettites, while seed ferns, ferns and other water- or moisture-bound groups such as algae, mosses, sphenophytes and lycophytes are represented by only very few fragmentary remains. The floral composition underlines the Callovian–Kimmeridgian age of the Yanliao Biota. The Daohugou/Yanliao flora is a typical member of the Middle to Late JurassicConiopteris-Phoenicopsisassemblage of north-eastern China, differing from the Early Cretaceous Jehol flora. Both floras probably belong to the same cycle of volcanism and sedimentation, although the Daohugou Bed is older than the Yixian Formation. The Yanliao fossil assemblage is placed in a larger palaeo-phytogeographical context and its relationships with Middle–Late Jurassic floras from north-eastern China, north-eastern and eastern Siberia and Japan are evaluated.
Revision of Pennsylvanian genus Sturia Němejc and its spores (Duckmantian, Czech Republic)
Authors: Frojdová Jana , Pšenička Josef , Bek Jiří
Published: December 2017

Sturia amoena(Stur) Němejc is a Pennsylvanian adpression true fern known from the Charbonnière de Belle et Bonne (Belgium) and from the Radnice and Kladno-Rakovník basins (Czech Republic). This revision includes a detailed study of pinna and pinnule morphology, aphlebiae and reproductive organs. Interesting details of sporangia andin situspores are described for the first time. The sporangia ofSturia amoenahave an equatorial bi-triseriate annulus and yieldedin situspores of thePunctatisporitesandApiculatisporitestypes.
Pollen morphology of extant Winteraceae: a study allowing SEM-based affiliation of its fossil representatives
Authors: Grímsson Friđgeir , Xafis Alexandros , Neumann Frank H. , Zetter Reinhard
Published: December 2017

When applying high-resolution microscopy, the pollen morphology of extant taxa can be used to classify fossil pollen, that is, to address the latter in the established systematic-phylogenetic framework. Here we investigate tetrads and pollen features of 20 different Winteraceae species, most of them belonging to the early-diverging generic lineagesTasmannia,DrimysandPseudowintera. The tetrads and pollen are grouped into eleven pollen types based on diagnostic features observed by both light and scanning electron microscopy. The high-resolution scanning electron micrographs of recent material allow detailed comparison with fossil material, resulting in a more accurate affiliation of fossil tetrads/pollen to extant lineages. As a case study, early Miocene Winteraceae tetrads from South Africa are re-examined and formally described. The systematic placement of the African fossils is discussed in light of the pollen types presented here.
Characterization and ecological significance of a seed bank from the Upper Pennsylvanian Wise Formation, southwest Virginia
Authors: Yehnjong Petra S. , Zavada Michael S. , Liu Chris
Published: December 2017

Soil seed banks are important to the maintenance and restoration of floras. Extant seed banks exhibit unique characteristics with regard to the distribution of seed size and seed density. Seeds were recovered from the Upper Pennsylvanian Wise Formation in southwest Virginia. Structurally preserved seeds were also examined from coal balls of the Pennsylvanian Pottsville and Allegheny Groups, Ohio. The size distribution of the seeds from the Wise Formation is similar to that of structurally preserved seeds of the Upper Pennsylvanian Pottsville and Allegheny Group coal balls. In contrast, the seed size distributions in extant wetland, grassland, woodland and forest habitats are significantly narrower than that of seeds from the Pennsylvanian seed banks. Larger seeds are less dependent on light for germination, and aid in seedling establishment more than smaller seeds, especially in dense stable forests where disturbance events are rare. Large seed size may contribute to increased seed longevity, which reduces the effect of environmental variability on seed germination and development. The significantly larger size of the Palaeozoic seeds may have imparted an advantage for seedling establishment in the dense Palaeozoic forests. The preponderance of large seeds may be a result of the absence of large seed predators (e.g. herbivorous tetrapods), and may have been an evolutionary strategy to minimize damage to the embryo from a predator population dominated by small invertebrates with chewing or sucking mouthparts. The estimated seed density of 192 seeds/m2in the Palaeozoic seed bank falls within the range of modern seed banks, but at the lower end of modern seed bank densities in a variety of habitats.
Comparative palynology of Macrotermes sp. mounds and Vespula vulgaris nests on the University of Lagos campus, Akoka: preliminary study
Authors: Adebayo Michael Babatunde , Adeonipekun Peter Adegbenga , Adeleye Matthew Adesanya , Kemabonta Kehinde Ajike
Published: December 2017

In order to assess the environmental indicator potential of wasp nests and termite mounds, the palynomorph content of three randomly selectedMacrotermessp. mounds (termitaria) and twoVespula vulgarisnests collected on the University of Lagos campus were examined. Palynological analysis showed the presence of 298 well-preserved palynomorphs showing characteristic morphological features. The recovered palynomorphs included pollen, pteridophyte spores and fungal spores, along with insect parts (106), diatoms (7) and a protist (1). The pollen assemblage of termite mounds comprised 78 pollen and pteridophyte spores, with Poaceae and Arecaceae pollen as dominants. In the wasp nest the pollen assemblage comprised 28 pollen and spore taxa, with Poaceae and Arecaceae pollen also dominant. Both mounds and nests had, besides diatoms, six pollen and spore taxa: Poaceae, Amaranthaceae, Pteridophyte spores, Arecaceae,Raffiasp. andRhizophorasp. Vegetational grouping of the recovered pollen and spores indicated five phytoecological groups: secondary forest, mangrove swamp forest, freshwater, open vegetation and Poaceae. In statistical analyses, termite mounds had a higher species richness value (2.08 as compared to 1.99 from the wasp nests), while the wasp nests had a higher species diversity value (0.997 as compared to 0.845 from the termite mounds). Pollen analyses of the termite mounds and wasp nests suggest that both could be useful tools in environmental studies. This is the first attempt to evaluate the potential of termite mounds and wasps nest as natural pollen accumulators in Nigeria. The results suggest new possibilities for the use of the pollen records preserved in termite mounds and wasp nests for environmental studies.
Position-force control of mobile manipulator – nonadaptive and adaptive case
Authors: Kaczmarek Mirela , Domski Wojciech , Mazur Alicja
Published: December 2017

This article presents a control algorithm for nonholonomic mobile manipulators with a simple, geometric holonomic constraint imposed on the robot’s arm. A mathematical model in generalized, auxiliary and linearized coordinates is presented, as well as the constrained dynamics of the robotic system. A position-force control law is proposed, both for the fully known robot’s model, as well as for the model with parametric uncertainty in the dynamics. Theoretical considerations are supported by the results of computer simulations.
Offset-free nonlinear Model Predictive Control with state-space process models
Authors: Tatjewski Piotr
Published: December 2017

Offset-free model predictive control (MPC) algorithms for nonlinear state-space process models, with modeling errors and under asymptotically constant external disturbances, is the subject of the paper. The main result of the paper is the presentation of a novel technique based on constant state disturbance prediction. It was introduced originally by the author for linear state-space models and is generalized to the nonlinear case in the paper. First the case with measured state is considered, in this case the technique allows to avoid disturbance estimation at all. For the cases with process outputs measured only and thus the necessity of state estimation, the technique allows the process state estimation only - as opposed to conventional approach of extended process-and-disturbance state estimation. This leads to simpler design with state observer/filter of lower order and, moreover, without the need of a decision of disturbance placement in the model (under certain restrictions), as in the conventional approach. A theoretical analysis of the proposed algorithm is provided, under applicability conditions which are weaker than in the conventional approach. The presented theory is illustrated by simulation results of nonlinear processes, showing competitiveness of the proposed algorithms.
The impact of environmental conditions on water salinity in the area of the city of Inowrocław (north-central Poland)
Authors: Hulisz Piotr , Krawiec Arkadiusz , Pindral Sylwia , Mendyk Łukasz , Pawlikowska Kamila
Published: December 2017

The article presents the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors on the chemical and physical properties of surface water and groundwater in the area of the city of Inowrocław. It has been shown that the properties of the waters were most strongly affected by the specific geological structure (the city is located within the Zechstein salt dome) as well as the long-term influence of a salt mine and soda plant. The composition of most analysed samples was dominated by Ca2+, Na+ and Cl− ions. In places of heavy industrial activity, some water parameters were several time higher than permissible limit values according to Polish standards. It is concluded that, due to the threat to the city’s drinking groundwater resources and fertile soils, the surface water and groundwater in the area in question require permanent monitoring.
The use of agricultural soils as a source of nitrous oxide emission in selected communes of Poland
Authors: Wiśniewski Paweł , Kistowski Mariusz
Published: December 2017

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is one of the main greenhouse gases, with a nearly 300 times greater potential to produce a greenhouse effect than carbon dioxide (CO2). Almost 80% of the annual emissions of this gas in Poland come from agriculture, and its main source is the use of agricultural soils. The study attempted to estimate the N2O emission from agricultural soils and to indicate its share in the total greenhouse gas emissions in 48 Polish communes. For this purpose, a simplified solution has been proposed which can be successfully applied by local government areas in order to assess nitrous oxide emissions, as well as to monitor the impact of actions undertaken to limit them. The estimated emission was compared with the results of the baseline greenhouse gas inventory prepared for the needs of the low-carbon economy plans adopted by the studied self-governments. This allowed us to determine the share of N2O emissions from agricultural soils in the total greenhouse gas emissions of the studied communes. The annual N2O emissions from agricultural soils in the studied communes range from 1.21 Mg N2O-N to 93.28 Mg N2O-N, and the cultivation of organic soils is its main source. The use of mineral and natural fertilisers, as well as indirect emissions from nitrogen leaching into groundwater and surface waters, are also significant. The results confirm the need to include greenhouse gas emissions from the use of agricultural soils and other agricultural sources in low-carbon economy plans.
Comparison of the Linke turbidity factor in Warsaw and in Belsk
Authors: Uscka-Kowalkowska Joanna , Posyniak Michał , Markowicz Krzysztof M. , Podgórski Jerzy
Published: December 2017

The paper describes the relationship between direct solar radiation in a city (Warsaw) and in its broadly-defined suburban area (Belsk). The analysis covers the days of 1969-2003 when observations were carried out at both sites. The degree of extinction of solar radiation was expressed by means of Linke’s turbidity factor. Its mean annual value on the selected days of the period under consideration was 3.00± 0.10 in Warsaw and 2.87±0.11 in Belsk. Average atmospheric turbidity for individual seasons of the year as well as for the whole year was higher in Warsaw than in Belsk. In all cases, except for the summer, these differences were statistically significant. The period considered was divided into two sub-periods (1969-1993 and 1994-2003), in which atmospheric turbidity in Warsaw and in Belsk was compared by individual seasons and whole years. At both analysed sites Linke’s atmospheric turbidity factor decreased in 1994-2003, compared to the values for the earlier sub-period (1969-1993). However, the average annual atmospheric turbidity in Warsaw in comparison to Belsk remained the same, i.e. greater turbidity occurred in the city in both sub-periods.
Integral of Non Positive Functions
Authors: Endou Noboru
Published: December 2017

In this article, we formalize in the Mizar system [1, 7] the Lebesgue type integral and convergence theorems for non positive functions [8],[2]. Many theorems are based on our previous results [5], [6].
Association of prothrombotic adipokine (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) with TSH in metabolic syndrome: a case control study
Authors: Ahirwar Ashok Kumar , Singh Archana , Jain Anju , Kaim Kirti , Bhardwaj Shilpa , Patra Surajeet Kumar , Goswami Binita , Bhatnagar M.K. , Bhattacharjee Jayashree
Published: December 2017

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, including abnormal lipids, insulin resistance and hypertension. The aim of the present study is to investigate associations between thyroid profile and the pro-thrombotic mediator, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), in MetS and identify associated biochemical markers.

Materials and methods

The present study was a case control study and consisted of 50 diagnosed cases of MetS and 50 healthy volunteers as controls. MetS cases were further divided into two groups based on the presence and absence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH). Data collected included demographic profile, clinical history and routine lab investigation. Special investigations included the thyroid function test and serum PAI-1 levels.

Results

The mean serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were significantly higher in MetS cases as compared to controls (5.7 ± 1.2 mIU/L vs. 2.3 ± 1.6 mIU/L, p < 0.0001), although the mean triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels were comparable in two groups. The mean levels of serum PAI-1 were significantly higher in MetS cases as compared to controls(231 ± 87 ng/mL vs. 185 ± 96 ng/mL, p = 0.013). TSH and PAI-1 levels were positively correlated with various markers of MetS and negatively correlated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Conclusion

The present study points towards the presence of thyroid dysfunction, in the form of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), in cases of MetS. In the presence of thyroid dysfunction, abnormal adipocytes may release adipokines, such as PAI-1, which lead to increased risk of thrombotic episodes in these patients. Hence, SCH should be appropriately managed.
High-content hydrogen water-induced downregulation of miR-136 alleviates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by regulating Nrf2 via targeting MEG3
Authors: Wang Xiang , Wang Jiao
Published: December 2017

This study was aimed to investigate the potential regulatory mechanism of high-content hydrogen water (HHW) in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). A high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD mice model and cellular model were prepared. The serum levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), total cholesterol (TCH) and triglycerides (TG) were measured. The expression levels of representative five microRNA (miRNAs) (miR-103, miR-488, miR-136, miR-505 and miR-148a) in liver tissues were determined by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). The target of miR-136 was validated by RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and pull-down assay. MiR-136, MEG3 and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) expression levels following cell treatment were detected in hepatocytes using qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Moreover, cell viability and TG content were conducted. MiR-136 was downregulated, MEG3 as well as Nrf2 was upregulated and serum lipid level was reduced in NAFLD mice model after HHW treatment, which exerted the same effect in cellular model. RIP and RNA pull-down assay confirmed that MEG2 was a downstream target of miR-136. What’s more, HHW ameliorated lipid accumulation by regulating miR-136/MEG3/Nrf2 axisin vitroandin vivo. Hence, HHW alleviated NAFLD by downregulation of miR-136 through mediating Nrf2 via targeting MEG3.