bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The making of oncology: The tales of false carcinogenic worms
Authors: Lalchhandama K.
Published: January 2019

Cancer is a disease of antiquity. The Ancient Greeks were familiar with onkos (from which we have the term oncology)—tumour of all sorts. Hippocrates coined karkinos and karkinoma, our source of the words cancer and carcinoma. Of a plethora of carcinogens, parasitic worms (helminths) constitute a considerable health concern. Three trematodes, Clonorchis sinensis, Opisthorchis viverrini, and Schistosoma haematobium are now officially classified carcinogens. But the discovery of helminths as cancer-causing agents took wrong turns and marks an inglorious chapter in the history of science. The carcinogenicity of worms, vindicating Rudolf Virchow’s reiztheorie (irritation theory) of cancer origin, was glorified in the scientific forefront by Johannes Fibiger in the 1910s. Discovery of a new nematode, which he proudly named Spiroptera carcinoma, and his subsequent demonstration that the parasite could induce stomach cancer in rats, earned Fibiger a retrospective Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1926, and a lasting fame. But not in an appealing way. His achievement did not withstand the test of time. S. carcinoma was annulled as an invalid taxon in zoology—supplanted by Gongylonema neoplasticum—and eventually was branded as a non-carcinogenic agent.
A study on the biomass variation of the macrophytes in Poiroupat Lake, Manipur, northeast India
Authors: Singh K. Khelchandra , Usha Khuraijam , Sharma B. M.
Published: January 2019

Biomass assessment of the macrophytic plant species were carried out at Poiroupat lake located in Imphal East district of Manipur. The present study reveals the presence of 30 aquatic macrophytes. The recorded aquatic macrophytes of the lake have been classified into four categories, viz. submerged (10%), rooted with floating leaves (16.7%), free floating (20%) and emergent (53.3%). In all the study sites, Ceratophyllum demersum recorded the maximum total biomass with values ranging from 24.52 (Site I) to 241.45 gm–2 (Site III). This was followed by Alternanthera philoxeroides with values ranging from 25.74 (Site II) to 139.77 gm–2 (Site II). This was successively followed by Utricularia flexuosa (14.12 to 110.45 gm–2), Ludwigia adscendens (14.09 to 89.32 gm–2), Nymphaea stellata (29.66 to 84.32 gm–2), Nelumbo nucifera (15.03 to 67.41 gm–2), Hydrilla verticillata (16.09 to 67.00 gm–2), Hygroryza aristata (30.95 to 62.52 gm–2), Ipomoea aquatica (4.54 to 58.31 gm–2), Nymphoides indicum (4.41 to 47.95 gm–2). Eichhornia crassipes recorded peak value of 26.54 gm–2. During the entire study period, the total biomass of all species (combined) ranged from 130.07 to 512.28 gm–2. The maximum biomass values were recorded during rainy season.
Photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue from aqueous solutions using nanopillars-TiO2 thin films: Batch reactor studies
Authors: Lalhriatpuia C.
Published: January 2019

Nanopillars-TiO2 thin films was obtained on a borosilicate glass substrate with (S1) and without (S2) polyethylene glycol as template. The photocatalytic behaviour of S1 and S2 thin films was assessed inthe degradation of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solution under batch reactor operations. The thin films were characterized by the SEM, XRD, FTIR and AFM analytical methods. BET specific surface area and pore sizes were also obtained. The XRD data confirmed that the TiO2 particles are in its anatase mineral phase. The SEM and AFM images indicated the catalyst is composed with nanosized pillars of TiO2, evenly distributed on the surface of the substrate. The BET specific surface area and pore sizes of S1 and S2 catalyst were found to be 5.217 and 1.420 m2/g and 7.77 and 4.16 nm respectively. The photocatalytic degradation of MB was well studied at wide range of physico-chemical parameters. The effect of solution pH (pH 4.0 to 10.0) and MB initial concentration (1.0 to 10.0 mg/L) was extensively studied and the effect of several interfering ions, i.e., cadmium nitrate, copper sulfate, zinc chloride, sodium chloride, sodium nitrate, sodium nitrite, glycine, oxalic acid and EDTA in the photocatalytic degradation of MB was demonstrated. The maximum percent removal of MB was observed at pH 8.0 beyond which it started decreasing and a low initial concentration of the pollutant highly favoured the photocatalytic degradation using thin films and the presence of several interfering ions diminished the photocatalytic activity of thin films to some extent. The overall photocatalytic activity was in the order: S2 > S1 > UV. The photocatalytic degradation of MB was followed the pseudo-first-order rate kinetics. The mineralization of MB was studied with total organic carbon measurement using the TOC (total organic carbon) analysis.
Scorpion Venom Analgesic Peptide, BmK AGAP Inhibits Stemness, and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition by Down-Regulating PTX3 in Breast Cancer
Authors: Kampo Sylvanus , Ahmmed Bulbul , Zhou Tingting , Owusu Lawrence , Anabah Thomas Winsum , Doudou Natacha Raissa , Kuugbee Eugene Dogkotenge , Cui Yong , Lu Zhili , Yan Qiu , Wen Qing-Ping
Published: January 2019

A scorpion peptide reported to exhibit both analgesic and antitumor activity in animal models may present as an alternative therapeutic agent for breast cancer. We aimed to investigate the effect of Buthus martensii Karsch antitumor-analgesic peptide (BmK AGAP) on breast cancer cell stemness and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). We treated MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells with different concentrations of rBmK AGAP and observed that rBmK AGAP inhibited cancer cell stemness, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), migration, and invasion. Analysis by qPCR, ELISA, western blot, immunofluorescence staining, sphere formation, colony assay, transwell migration, and invasion assays demonstrated rBmK AGAP treatment decreased the expressions of Oct4, Sox2, N-cadherin, Snail, and increased the expression of E-cadherin. rBmK AGAP inhibited breast cancer cell stemness, EMT, migration, and invasion by down-regulating PTX3 through NF-κB and Wnt/β-catenin signaling Pathway in vitro and in vivo. Xenograft tumor model confirmed inhibition of tumor growth, stem-like features, and EMT by rBmK AGAP. Thus, rBmK AGAP is a potential therapeutic agent against breast cancer and related pain.
Probing Globular Protein Self-Assembling Dynamics by Heterodyne Transient Grating Experiments
Authors: Catalini Sara , Taschin Andrea , Bartolini Paolo , Foggi Paolo , Torre Renato
Published: January 2019

In this work, we studied the propagation of ultrasonic waves of lysozyme solutions characterized by different degrees of aggregation and networking. The experimental investigation was performed by means of the transient grating (TG) spectroscopy as a function of temperature, which enabled measurement of the ultrasonic acoustic proprieties over a wide time window, ranging from nanoseconds to milliseconds. The fitting of the measured TG signal allowed the extraction of several dynamic properties, here we focused on the speed and the damping rate of sound. The temperature variation induced a series of processes in the lysozyme solutions: Protein folding-unfolding, aggregation and sol–gel transition. Our TG investigation showed how these self-assembling phenomena modulate the sound propagation, affecting both the velocity and the damping rate of the ultrasonic waves. In particular, the damping of ultrasonic acoustic waves proved to be a dynamic property very sensitive to the protein conformational rearrangements and aggregation processes.
Terahertz Wideband Filter Based on Sub-Wavelength Binary Simple Periodic Structure
Authors: Yao Pan , H.X. Huang , Lei Lei , Yang Zou , Y.F. Xiao , Tuo Yang , Ping Xu
Published: January 2019

In this paper, a silicon-based terahertz wideband filter was designed using rigorous couple wave theory to achieve high diffraction efficiency and wideband filtering performance. The optimal parameters, such as filter period, duty ratio, and groove depth, are given. The design value and tolerance analysis were carried out to obtain the allowable deviation range of each structural parameter of the filter. The device was fabricated and tested for performance. The experimental results were consistent with the design results, proving the feasibility of the design method and can be applied in terahertz, communication, imaging, and other fields.
Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome—Current Status and Prospects for Gene Therapy Treatment
Authors: Piekarowicz Katarzyna , Machowska Magdalena , Dzianisava Volha , Rzepecki Ryszard
Published: January 2019

Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is one of the most severe disorders among laminopathies—a heterogeneous group of genetic diseases with a molecular background based on mutations in the LMNA gene and genes coding for interacting proteins. HGPS is characterized by the presence of aging-associated symptoms, including lack of subcutaneous fat, alopecia, swollen veins, growth retardation, age spots, joint contractures, osteoporosis, cardiovascular pathology, and death due to heart attacks and strokes in childhood. LMNA codes for two major, alternatively spliced transcripts, give rise to lamin A and lamin C proteins. Mutations in the LMNA gene alone, depending on the nature and location, may result in the expression of abnormal protein or loss of protein expression and cause at least 11 disease phenotypes, differing in severity and affected tissue. LMNA gene-related HGPS is caused by a single mutation in the LMNA gene in exon 11. The mutation c.1824C > T results in activation of the cryptic donor splice site, which leads to the synthesis of progerin protein lacking 50 amino acids. The accumulation of progerin is the reason for appearance of the phenotype. In this review, we discuss current knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying the development of HGPS and provide a critical analysis of current research trends in this field. We also discuss the mouse models available so far, the current status of treatment of the disease, and future prospects for the development of efficient therapies, including gene therapy for HGPS.
Low Profile Sinuous Slot Antenna for UWB Sensor Networks
Authors: Gamec Ján , Repko Miroslav , Gamcová Mária , Gladišová Iveta , Kurdel Pavol , Nekrasov Alexey , Fidge Colin
Published: January 2019

This article describes the design and implementation of a low-profile sinuous slot antenna, intended for ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor networks, which can be produced on one conductive layer. The article explains the design and optimization of the sinuous slot antenna and its modifications, including its sinusoidal curve shape. Other modifications were aimed at optimizing the antenna feeding. Desirable properties of the designed and implemented antenna modifications were verified both by simulation and empirically. Experimental measurements of the antenna’s properties were carried out using a vector network analyzer in an anechoic chamber and also by a pulsed UWB radar in the frequency range from 0.1 to 6 GHz. The low-profile antennas were implemented on a Rogers RO3206 substrate.
Wildfire Alters Spatial Patterns of Available Soil Nitrogen and Understory Environments in a Valley Boreal Larch Forest
Authors: Kong Jianjian , Yang Jian , Liu Bo , Qi Lin
Published: January 2019

Wildfire, a primary natural disturbance in many forests, affects soil nutrient availability and spatial distributions of forest plants. However, post-fire changes in soil nutrients and spatial patterns of understory environments at fine scales are poorly understood. Here, we characterized spatial patterns of soil nitrogen availability and site characteristics at a 3-year-post-fire and an unburned site in a valley boreal larch forest. We also examined the relationship between soil nitrogen availability and site characteristics. The results showed that the burned site had higher NO3− and lower NH4+ than the control. The herb, litter and coarse wood debris cover was greater at the burned site than at the control site with higher soil pH, depth of the organic horizon (DOH) and shrub cover. Relative variability (coefficient of variation) in soil nitrogen and site characteristic variables at the control site was greater than at the burned site except for shrub and regeneration tree seedling cover. Spatial structure (quantified by semi-variograms) was lacking for soil nitrogen and site characteristic variables except for DOH, herb and shrub cover at the control site, but wildfire created a strong spatial structure for all variables. Shorter spatial autocorrelation ranges of soil nitrogen (1.6–3.5 m) and site characteristic variables (2.6–6.0 m) were detected at the burned site, indicating higher heterogeneity. The spatial scale of soil NH4+ was congruent with those of herb, shrub and regeneration tree seedling cover, indicating local coupling, while that of soil NO3− was not. The number of correlations between soil nitrogen and site characteristic variables in the burned site was greater than in the control. These results indicate that fire could not only create higher heterogeneity patches of soil resources, but also strengthen the local coupling between soil resources and understory vegetation, which may impact the establishment and growth of new individual plants.
Climate Response of Douglas Fir Reveals Recently Increased Sensitivity to Drought Stress in Central Europe
Authors: Vejpustková Monika , Čihák Tomáš
Published: January 2019

Research Highlights: In Central Europe, Douglas fir became more responsive to summer drought in recent years. Background and Objectives: Until now, Douglas fir has been considered a tree species resistant to drought. However, how Douglas fir will be able to cope with the increasing frequency and intensity of summer heat waves remains a question. The long-term variability in the climate response of Douglas fir in Central European conditions has not been fully explored. The aim of the study was to identify climatic factors controlling the stem radial growth of Douglas fir and Norway spruce, and to examine the temporal changes in tree responses to key climatic variables related to drought stress. Materials and Methods: We analysed the pattern of the climate–growth relationship of Douglas fir and Norway spruce, growing in mixed stands distributed between 260 and 600 m above sea level, which corresponds with the altitudinal zone of intensive spruce dieback in the Czech Republic. Nine-site tree-ring-width chronologies were developed for each tree species. Pointer year analysis and correlation analysis in combination with principal component analysis were used to identify climatic factors limiting their growth. Moving correlation function was computed to assess temporal changes of the climate–growth relationship. Results: In the entire 1961–2015 period, growth of both species was positively related to summer precipitation. The response to temperature differed between species. While spruce was negatively affected by the temperatures in summer months, the increments of Douglas fir were positively correlated with the temperatures in February and March. However, moving correlation analysis revealed recently increasing sensitivity to summer temperatures also for Douglas fir. Higher responsiveness of Douglas fir to drought was also revealed by the increasing frequency of negative pointer years in the 2003–2015 period. Conclusions: The recommendations of Douglas fir as a suitable alternative tree species for declining spruce stands at lower altitudes must be regarded with caution.
Analysis of the Association Between TERC and TERT Genetic Variation and Leukocyte Telomere Length and Human Lifespan—A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Scarabino Daniela , Peconi Martina , Pelliccia Franca , Corbo Rosa Maria
Published: January 2019

We investigated the possible influence of TERC and TERT genetic variation and leukocyte telomere length (LTL) on human lifespan. Four polymorphisms of TERT and three polymorphisms of TERC were examined in a sample of elderly subjects (70–100 years). After nine years of follow-up, mortality data were collected, and sub-samples of long-lived/not long-lived were defined. TERT VNTR MNS16A L/L genotype and TERT rs2853691 A/G or G/G genotypes were found to be associated with a significantly higher risk to die before the age of 90 years, and with a significantly lower age at death. The association between lifespan and LTL at baseline was analyzed in a subsample of 163 subjects. Age at baseline was inversely associated with LTL (p < 0.0001). Mean LTL was greater in the subjects still living than in those no longer living at follow-up (0.79 T/S ± 0.09 vs. 0.63 T/S ± 0.08, p < 0.0001). Comparison of age classes showed that, among the 70–79-year-olds, the difference in mean LTL between those still living and those no longer living at follow-up was greater than among the 80–90-year-olds. Our data provide evidence that shorter LTL at baseline may predict a shorter lifespan, but the reliability of LTL as a lifespan biomarker seems to be limited to a specific age (70–79 years).
Molecular Insights into the Classification of Luminal Breast Cancers: The Genomic Heterogeneity of Progesterone-Negative Tumors
Authors: Lopez Gianluca , Costanza Jole , Colleoni Matteo , Fontana Laura , Ferrero Stefano , Miozzo Monica , Fusco Nicola
Published: January 2019

Estrogen receptor (ER)-positive progesterone receptor (PR)-negative breast cancers are infrequent but clinically challenging. Despite the volume of genomic data available on these tumors, their biology remains poorly understood. Here, we aimed to identify clinically relevant subclasses of ER+/PR− breast cancers based on their mutational landscape. The Cancer Genomics Data Server was interrogated for mutational and clinical data of all ER+ breast cancers with information on PR status from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK), and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium (METABRIC) projects. Clustering analysis was performed using gplots, ggplot2, and ComplexHeatmap packages. Comparisons between groups were performed using the Student’s t-test and the test of Equal or Given Proportions. Survival curves were built according to the Kaplan–Meier method; differences in survival were assessed with the log-rank test. A total of 3570 ER+ breast cancers (PR− n = 959, 27%; PR+ n = 2611, 73%) were analyzed. Mutations in well-known cancer genes such as TP53, GATA3, CDH1, HER2, CDH1, and BRAF were private to or enriched for in PR− tumors. Mutual exclusivity analysis revealed the presence of four molecular clusters with significantly different prognosis on the basis of PIK3CA and TP53 status. ER+/PR− breast cancers are genetically heterogeneous and encompass a variety of distinct entities in terms of prognostic and predictive information.
Coupling between Osseointegration and Mechanotransduction to Maintain Foreign Body Equilibrium in the Long-Term: A Comprehensive Overview
Authors: Amengual-Peñafiel Luis , Brañes-Aroca Manuel , Marchesani-Carrasco Francisco , Jara-Sepúlveda María Costanza , Parada-Pozas Leopoldo , Cartes-Velásquez Ricardo
Published: January 2019

The permanent interaction between bone tissue and the immune system shows us the complex biology of the tissue in which we insert oral implants. At the same time, new knowledge in relation to the interaction of materials and the host, reveals to us the true nature of osseointegration. So, to achieve clinical success or perhaps most importantly, to understand why we sometimes fail, the study of oral implantology should consider the following advice equally important: a correct clinical protocol, the study of the immunomodulatory capacity of the device and the osteoimmunobiology of the host. Although osseointegration may seem adequate from the clinical point of view, a deeper vision shows us that a Foreign Body Equilibrium could be susceptible to environmental conditions. This is why maintaining this cellular balance should become our therapeutic target and, more specifically, the understanding of the main cell involved, the macrophage. The advent of new information, the development of new implant surfaces and the introduction of new therapeutic proposals such as therapeutic mechanotransduction, will allow us to maintain a healthy host-implant relationship long-term.
Pulsed UV Laser Processing of Carbosilane and Silazane Polymers
Authors: Ligon Samuel Clark , Blugan Gurdial , Kuebler Jakob
Published: January 2019

Freestanding SiCNO ceramic pieces with sub-mm features were produced by laser crosslinking of carbosilane and silazane polymer precursors followed by pyrolysis in inert atmosphere. Three different pulsed UV laser systems were investigated, and the influence of laser wavelength, operating power and scanning speed were all found to be important. Different photoinitiators were tested for the two lasers operating at 355 nm, while for the 266 nm laser, crosslinking occurred also without photoinitiator. Pre-treatment of glass substrates with fluorinated silanes was found to ease the release of green bodies during solvent development. Polymer crosslinking was observed with all three of the laser systems, as were bubbles, surface charring and in some cases ablation. By focusing the laser beam several millimeters above the surface of the resin, selective polymer crosslinking was observed exclusively.
Naturally-Derived Biphasic Calcium Phosphates through Increased Phosphorus-Based Reagent Amounts for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Mocanu Aura-Cătălina , Stan George E. , Maidaniuc Andreea , Miculescu Marian , Antoniac Iulian Vasile , Ciocoiu Robert-Cătălin , Voicu Ștefan Ioan , Mitran Valentina , Cîmpean Anișoara , Miculescu Florin
Published: January 2019

Calcium carbonate from marble and seashells is an eco-friendly, sustainable, and largely available bioresource for producing natural bone-like calcium phosphates (CaPs). Based on three main objectives, this research targeted the: (i) adaptation of an indirect synthesis route by modulating the amount of phosphorus used in the chemical reaction, (ii) comprehensive structural, morphological, and surface characterization, and (iii) biocompatibility assessment of the synthesized powdered samples. The morphological characterization was performed on digitally processed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. The complementary 3D image augmentation of SEM results also allowed the quantification of roughness parameters. The results revealed that both morphology and roughness were modulated through the induced variation of the synthesis parameters. Structural investigation of the samples was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Depending on the phosphorus amount from the chemical reaction, the structural studies revealed the formation of biphasic CaPs based on hydroxyapatite/brushite or brushite/monetite. The in vitro assessment of the powdered samples demonstrated their capacity to support MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblast viability and proliferation at comparable levels to the negative cytotoxicity control and the reference material (commercial hydroxyapatite). Therefore, these samples hold great promise for biomedical applications.
Turning Hild’s Sculptures into Single-Sided Surfaces
Authors: Séquin Carlo H.
Published: January 2019

Eva Hild uses an intuitive, incremental approach to create fascinating ceramic sculptures representing 2-manifolds with interesting topologies. Typically, these free-form shapes are two-sided and thus orientable. Here I am exploring ways in which similar-looking shapes may be created that are single-sided. Some differences in our two approaches are highlighted and then used to create some complex 2-manifolds that are clearly different from Hild’s repertoire.
A Metabolomic Study of the Variability of the Chemical Composition of Commonly Consumed Coffee Brews
Authors: Rothwell Joseph , Loftfield Erikka , Wedekind Roland , Freedman Neal , Kambanis Callie , Scalbert Augustin , Sinha Rashmi
Published: January 2019

Coffee drinking has been associated with a lower risk of certain chronic diseases and overall mortality. Its effects on disease risk may vary according to the type of coffee brew consumed and its chemical composition. We characterized variations in the chemical profiles of 76 coffee brew samples representing different brew methods, roast levels, bean species, and caffeine types, either prepared or purchased from outlets in Rockville, Maryland, United States of America. Samples were profiled using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry, and the main sources of chemical variability identified by the principal component partial R-square multivariable regression were found to be brew methods (Rpartial2 = 36%). A principal component analysis (PCA) was run on 18 identified coffee compounds after normalization for total signal intensity. The three first principal components were driven by roasting intensity (41% variance), type of coffee beans (29%), and caffeine (8%). These variations were mainly explained by hydroxycinnamoyl esters and diketopiperazines (roasting), N-caffeoyltryptophan, N-p-coumaroyltryptophan, feruloylquinic acids, and theophylline (coffee bean variety) and theobromine (decaffeination). Instant coffees differed from all coffee brews by high contents of diketopiperazines, suggesting a higher roast of the extracted beans. These variations will be important to consider for understanding the effects of different coffee brews on disease risk.
Biosynthetic and Synthetic Strategies for Assembling Capuramycin-Type Antituberculosis Antibiotics
Authors: Biecker Ashley L. , Liu Xiaodong , Thorson Jon S. , Yang Zhaoyong , Van Lanen Steven G.
Published: January 2019

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) has recently surpassed HIV/AIDS as the leading cause of death by a single infectious agent. The standard therapeutic regimen against tuberculosis (TB) remains a long, expensive process involving a multidrug regimen, and the prominence of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), and totally drug-resistant (TDR) strains continues to impede treatment success. An underexplored class of natural products—the capuramycin-type nucleoside antibiotics—have been shown to have potent anti-TB activity by inhibiting bacterial translocase I, a ubiquitous and essential enzyme that functions in peptidoglycan biosynthesis. The present review discusses current literature concerning the biosynthesis and chemical synthesis of capuramycin and analogs, seeking to highlight the potential of the capuramycin scaffold as a favorable anti-TB therapeutic that warrants further development.
Plasma Activation of Copper Nanowires Arrays for Electrocatalytic Sensing of Nitrate in Food and Water
Authors: Stortini Angela Maria , Fabris Sabrina , Saorin Gloria , Verga Falzacappa Emanuele , Moretto Ligia Maria , Ugo Paolo
Published: January 2019

Electrochemical methods for nitrate detection are very attractive since they are suitable for in-field and decentralized monitoring. Copper electrodes are often used to this aim as this metal presents interesting electrocatalytic properties towards nitrate reduction. In this research, we study improvements in the electrochemical analysis of nitrate in natural water and food by taking advantage of the detection capabilities of ensembles of copper nanowire electrodes (CuWNEEs). These electrodes are prepared via template electrodeposition of copper within the nanopores of track-etched polycarbonate (PC) membranes. A critical step in the preparation of these sensors is the removal of the template. Here, we applied the combination of chemical etching with atmospheric plasma cleaning which proved suitable for improving the performance of the nanostructured copper electrode. Analytical results obtained with the CuWNEE sensor for nitrate analyses in river water samples compare satisfactorily with those achieved by standard chromatographic or spectroscopic methods. Experimental results concerning the application of the CuWNEEs for nitrate analysis in food samples are also presented and discussed, with focus on nitrate detection in leafy vegetables.
Analysis of the Relationship between Support Institutions and Industrial Districts in Spain: A Regional Approach
Authors: Claver-Cortés Enrique , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Seva-Larrosa Pedro , Ruiz-Fernández Lorena , Sánchez-García Eduardo
Published: January 2019

One of the constituent elements of the industrial district is the existence of local and regional institutions which offer information and support services to the firms based in the district. These institutions, as has been shown in the literature on industrial districts, in addition to representing an important component of social capital, can play a key role in improving the joint operation of the companies in the district. The aim of this paper is, consequently, to analyze the food industry districts and the institutions which support this industry nationally. With that aim in mind, the analysis is undertaken from a regional perspective that allows us to assess, on the one hand, the degree of proximity between districts and institutions and, on the other hand, the role played by the latter as knowledge generators. The results obtained show that, in general, the support institutions tend to be located in the vicinity of the industrial districts specialized in the aforementioned sector. It likewise becomes clear that the training offer aimed at meeting the training needs of the industry is greater in these specialized environments than in others where this production model does not prevail. Such results confirm the importance of institutions in business agglomerations shaped as industrial districts.
Exploring the Current Challenges and Opportunities of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment
Authors: Fauzi Rizal Taufiq , Lavoie Patrick , Sorelli Luca , Heidari Mohammad Davoud , Amor Ben
Published: January 2019

Sustainability decision making is a complex task for policy makers, considering the possible unseen consequences it may entail. With a broader scope covering environmental, economic, and social aspects, Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) is a promising holistic method to deal with that complexity. However, to date, this method is limited to the hotspot analysis of a product, service, or system, and hence only assesses direct impacts and overlooks the indirect ones (or consequences). This critical literature review aims to explore the challenges and the research gaps related to the integration of three methods in LCSA representing three pillars of sustainability: (Environmental) Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC), and Social Life Cycle Assessment (S-LCA). The challenges and the research gaps that appear when pairing two of these tools with each other are identified and discussed, i.e., the temporal issues, different perspectives, the indirect consequences, etc. Although this study does not aim to remove the shadows in LCSA methods, critical research gaps are identified in order to be addressed in future works. More case studies are also recommended for a deeper understanding of methodological trade-offs that might happen, especially when dealing with the consequential perspective.
Efficient Nitrogen Removal of Reject Water Generated from Anaerobic Digester Treating Sewage Sludge and Livestock Manure by Combining Anammox and Autotrophic Sulfur Denitrification Processes
Authors: Kwon Kiwook , Kim Hyosun , Kim Woojin , Lee Junbae
Published: January 2019

The reject water from anaerobic digestion with high (Total Nitrogen) TN concentration was treated by a demonstration plant combining the anammox process and SOD (SOD®; Sulfur Oxidation Denitrification) process. The anaerobic digestion was a co-digestion of livestock wastewater, food waste water, and sewage sludge so that the TN concentration and conductivity of the reject water were very high. This anammox plant was the first anammox demonstration plant in South Korea. The maximum TN removal efficiency of 80% was achieved for the anammox reactor under nitrogen loading rate (NLR) of 0.45 kg-N/m3·d. As a result of decreasing the dilution of the reject water, the influent conductivity and NLR values were increased to 7.8 mS/cm and 0.7 kg/m3·d, causing a rapid decrease in the TN removal efficiency. The sludge concentration from the hydro-cyclone overflow was about 40 mg-MLVSS/L in which small sized anammox granules were detected. It was proven that the increase in (Mixed Liquor Volatile Suspended Solids) MLVSS concentration in the anammox reactor was not easy under high influent conductivity and NLR. 97% of NO2−-N+NO3−-N generated from the anammox process could be treated successfully by the SOD reactor. A TN removal efficiency of 35% under poor annamox treatment could increase to 67% by applying the SOD reactor post treatment for the removal of NO3−-N. The dominant anammox bacteria in the anammox reactor was identified as Brocadia fulgida and 9.3% (genus level) of the bacteria out of the total bacteria were anammox bacteria.
A Ni(OH)2 nanopetals network for high-performance supercapacitors synthesized by immersing Ni nanofoam in water
Authors: Zheng Donghui , Li Man , Li Yongyan , Qin Chunling , Wang Yichao , Wang Zhifeng
Published: January 2019

Developing a facile and environmentally friendly approach to the synthesis of nanostructured Ni(OH)2 electrodes for high-performance supercapacitor applications is a great challenge. In this work, we report an extremely simple route to prepare a Ni(OH)2 nanopetals network by immersing Ni nanofoam in water. A binder-free composite electrode, consisting of Ni(OH)2 nanopetals network, Ni nanofoam interlayer and Ni-based metallic glass matrix (Ni(OH)2/Ni-NF/MG) with sandwich structure and good flexibility, was designed and finally achieved. Microstructure and morphology of the Ni(OH)2 nanopetals were characterized. It is found that the Ni(OH)2 nanopetals interweave with each other and grow vertically on the surface of Ni nanofoam to form an “ion reservoir”, which facilitates the ion diffusion in the electrode reaction. Electrochemical measurements show that the Ni(OH)2/Ni-NF/MG electrode, after immersion in water for seven days, reveals a high volumetric capacitance of 966.4 F/cm3 at a current density of 0.5 A/cm3. The electrode immersed for five days exhibits an excellent cycling stability (83.7% of the initial capacity after 3000 cycles at a current density of 1 A/cm3). Furthermore, symmetric supercapacitor (SC) devices were assembled using ribbons immersed for seven days and showed a maximum volumetric energy density of ca. 32.7 mWh/cm3 at a power density of 0.8 W/cm3, and of 13.7 mWh/cm3 when the power density was increased to 2 W/cm3. The fully charged SC devices could light up a red LED. The work provides a new idea for the synthesis of nanostructured Ni(OH)2 by a simple approach and ultra-low cost, which largely extends the prospect of commercial application in flexible or wearable devices.
KMT-2017-BLG-0165Lb: A Super-Neptune-mass Planet Orbiting a Sun-like Host Star
Authors: Kil Jung Youn , Gould Andrew , Zang Weicheng , Hwang Kyu-Ha , Ryu Yoon-Hyun , Han Cheongho , Yee Jennifer C. , Albrow Michael D. , Chung Sun-Ju , Shin In-Gu , Shvartzvald Yossi , Zhu Wei , Cha Sang-Mok , Kim Dong-Jin , Kim Hyoun-Woo , Kim Seung-Lee , Lee Chung-Uk , Lee Dong-Joo , Lee Yongseok , Park Byeong-Gon , Pogge Richard W. ,   (The KMTNet Collaboration), Penny Matthew T. , Mao Shude , Fouqué Pascal , Wang Tianshu ,   (The CFHT Collaboration)
Published: January 2019

We report the discovery of a low-mass-ratio planet (q = 1.3 × 10−4), i.e., 2.5 times higher than the Neptune/Sun ratio. The planetary system was discovered from the analysis of the KMT-2017-BLG-0165 microlensing event, which has an obvious short-term deviation from the underlying light curve produced by the host of the planet. Although the fit improvement with the microlens parallax effect is relatively low, one component of the parallax vector is strongly constrained from the light curve, making it possible to narrow down the uncertainties of the lens physical properties. A Bayesian analysis yields that the planet has a super-Neptune mass

orbiting a Sun-like star

located at 4.5 kpc. The blended light is consistent with these host properties. The projected planet-host separation is

, implying that the planet is located outside the snow line of the host, i.e., a
sl ∼ 2.1 au. KMT-2017-BLG-0165Lb is the sixteenth microlensing planet with mass ratio q < 3 × 10−4. Using the fifteen of these planets with unambiguous mass-ratio measurements, we apply a likelihood analysis to investigate the form of the mass-ratio function in this regime. If we adopt a broken power law for the form of this function, then the break is at q
br ≃ 0.55 × 10−4, which is much lower than previously estimated. Moreover, the change of the power-law slope, ζ > 3.3, is quite severe. Alternatively, the distribution is also suggestive of a pileup of planets at Neptune-like mass ratios, below which there is a dramatic drop in frequency.
Depth of Ellerman Burst Derived from High-resolution Hα and Ca ii 8542 Å Spectra
Authors: Seo Minju , Noda Carlos Quintero , Lee Jeongwoo , Chae Jongchul
Published: January 2019

High-resolution spectra of an Ellerman burst (EB) sampling the Hα and the Ca ii 8542 Å lines obtained with the Fast Imaging Solar Spectrograph (FISS) installed on the 1.6 m Goode Solar Telescope at the Big Bear Solar Observatory are compared with synthetic line profiles constructed using the RH code for nonlocal thermodynamical equilibrium radiative transfer. The EB heating is modeled by a local temperature hump above the quiet-Sun temperature. Our first finding is that FISS Hα and Ca ii 8542 Å intensity profiles cannot be reproduced simultaneously by a single hump model as far as the hump is thicker than ≥100 km. Simultaneous reproduction of both line profiles is possible when the EB temperature enhancement is confined to a layer as thin as ≤20 km in the photosphere where the Hα wing response is high and that of the Ca ii 8542 Å is not. Moreover, when we examine the EB spectra at different times, we find that the EB at a time of weaker appearance is located at lower heights, ∼50 km, and moves upward to ∼120 km at the time of maximum intensity. Complementary calculations of the Na i D1 and Mg i b2 lines as well as that of UV continuum at 1600 and 1700 Å with the deduced EB atmosphere are also performed to test the result, which allows us to discuss the shortcomings of this plane–parallel static model atmosphere for understanding the physical properties of EBs.
The Lick AGN Monitoring Project 2011: Photometric Light Curves
Authors: Pancoast Anna , Skielboe Andreas , Pei Liuyi , Bennert Vardha N. , Sand David J. , Barth Aaron J. , Joner Michael D. , Thorman Shawn , Schmidt Thomas , Treu Tommaso , Brewer Brendon J. , Li Weidong , Buehler Tabitha , Laney C. David , Canalizo Gabriela , Filippenko Alexei V. , Greene Jenny E. , Malkan Matthew A. , Stern Daniel , Woo Jong-Hak
Published: January 2019

In Spring 2011, the Lick AGN Monitoring Project observed a sample of 15 bright, nearby Seyfert 1 galaxies in the V band as part of a reverberation mapping campaign. The observations were taken at six ground-based telescopes, including the West Mountain Observatory 0.91 m telescope, the 0.76 m Katzman Automatic Imaging Telescope, 0.6 m Super-LOTIS at Kitt Peak, the Palomar 60 inch telescope, and the 2 m Faulkes telescopes North and South. The V-band light curves measure the continuum variability of our sample of Seyferts on an almost daily cadence for 2–3 months. We use image-subtraction software to isolate the variability of the Seyfert nucleus from the constant V-band flux of the host galaxy for the most promising targets, and we adopt standard aperture photometry techniques for the targets with smaller levels of variability. These V-band light curves will be used, with measurements of the broad emission line flux, to measure supermassive black hole masses and to constrain the geometry and dynamics of the broad-line region through dynamical modeling techniques.
Large Volcanic Event on Io Inferred from Jovian Sodium Nebula Brightening
Authors: Morgenthaler Jeffrey P. , Rathbun Julie A. , Schmidt Carl A. , Baumgardner Jeffrey , Schneider Nicholas M.
Published: January 2019

Using narrow-band images recorded on over 150 nights by the 35 cm coronagraph that comprises the Planetary Science Institute’s Io Input/Output Facility (IoIO), we detected a 6-month long enhancement in the Jovian sodium nebula. The onset of the enhancement occurred in the mid 2017 December–early 2018 January timeframe. Sodium emission over the IoIO 0.°4 field of view was seen to increase through 2018 January and peak in 2018 early March. By early June 2018, the surface brightness of the emission returned to the value seen in 2017 April–June, making this the longest such event observed by this technique and comparable in length to that observed by the Galileo Dust Detector in 2000. A new infrared hot spot was found on Io near Susanoo/Mulungu Paterae between January 2 and 12, however this hot spot was neither bright nor long-lasting enough to have been independently identified as the source of a major sodium nebula enhancement. Furthermore, no other report of this event has been made despite a significant number of observations of the Jovian system by and in support of NASA’s Juno mission. This detection therefore places those observations in valuable context and highlights the importance of synoptic observations by facilities such as IoIO, which provide a global view of neutral material in the Jovian magnetosphere.
A new species of Bungona in Turkey (Ephemeroptera, Baetidae): an unexpected biogeographic pattern within a pantropical complex of mayflies
Authors: Sroka Pavel , Godunko Roman J. , Rutschmann Sereina , Angeli Kamila B. , Salles Frederico F. , Gattolliat Jean-Luc
Published: January 2019

By using an integrative approach, we describe a new species of mayfly, Bungona (Chopralla) ponticasp. n., from Turkey. The discovery of a representative of the tropical mayfly genusBungonain the Middle East is rather unexpected. The new species shows all the main morphological characters of the subgenus Chopralla, which has its closest related species occurring in southeastern Asia. Barcoding clearly indicated that the new species represents an independent lineage isolated for a very long time from other members of the complex. The claw is equipped with two rows of three or four flattened denticles. This condition is a unique feature of Bungona (Chopralla) ponticasp. n.among West Palaearctic mayfly species. Within the subgenus Chopralla, the species can be identified by the presence of a simple, not bifid right prostheca (also present only in Bungona (Chopralla) liebenauae (Soldán, Braasch & Muu, 1987)), the shape of the labial palp, and the absence of protuberances on pronotum.
Devenir un·e élève atteint·e d’un cancer
Authors: Rollin Zoé
Published: January 2019

Cet article vise à renseigner comment un événement de santé majeur (cancer) vient modifier l’expérience scolaire des adolescent·e·s, en cherchant à en dessiner les implications à long terme. L’étude s’appuie sur une méthodologie mixte, dont trois années de recherche socio-ethnographique, en centres de soins et en établissements scolaires. La recherche montre combien l’expérience scolaire est façonnée par les temporalités de la scolarité à l’épreuve de la maladie grave chronicisée. La maladie est perçue, à court terme, comme une parenthèse, mais les effets de sa gestion sociale peuvent peu à peu la faire muter en situation de handicap.
Apprendre les drogues en classe
Authors: Selponi Yohan
Published: January 2019

Dans le cadre d’actions préventives, décrire les effets des psychotropes sur l’organisme, n’est-ce pas aussi construire leur réalité sociale en apprenant aux élèves ce qu’ils pourraient attendre de leurs usages ? Ces descriptions sont fondées sur une homogénéisation des différents types de produits autour de leur substance dite « active » contribuant à véhiculer l’idée qu’il n’existe pas de consommations sans ivresse. Cette normalisation des conduites permet, du côté des élèves, un « apprentissage » des éléments motivant les consommations et des normes sociales associées. Mais en enjoignant, notamment, les garçons des classes populaires à se raconter, les agents de prévention contribuent à construire les consommations massives qu’ils cherchent à prévenir.
L’amour guérit-il du trauma ?
Authors: Berruyer-Lamoine Bénédicte
Published: January 2019

Entre répétition à l’identique, tentative de réparation et nouveauté, quelle place et quelle fonction le lien amoureux et conjugal peut-il occuper par rapport à des traumas plus anciens ? Si la psychanalyse nous amène souvent à écouter d’abord le passé derrière l’actuel, ce qui reste un modèle opérant, il parait important de pouvoir penser aussi des modèles de lien et de processus psychiques intersubjectifs et groupaux qui soutiennent une écoute de l’inédit. En ce sens, la scène du couple, et si nécessaire de la thérapie de couple, pourrait s’ouvrir comme espace de représentation, voire de transformation.
De Freud à Jung, Transmission, perte et gain
Authors: Sédat Jacques
Published: January 2019

Les théories analytiques naissent dans une urgence de pensée et sont profondément liées aux expériences vécues des analystes. L’évolution des relations entre Freud et Jung illustre à quel point l’incompréhension qui s’est développée entre eux a paradoxalement permis à chacun d’apporter une compréhension différente de la psyché. La prévalence, chez Freud, de la dimension de la temporalité lui a permis d’approfondir la question de la remémoration et donc du rôle du transfert dans la relation analytique, surtout dans le champ de la névrose. De son côté, Jung qui était plus sensible à la dimension de l’espace a permis de penser le champ de la psychose sur lequel Freud s’avouait mal à l’aise. Jung a ainsi ouvert une voie précieuse à la compréhension de la psychose.
Lili : l’entre entre-deux mères
Authors: de Wailly Florence
Published: January 2019

Les traumatismes liés à l’abandon ou à la séparation précoce d’un enfant d’avec ses parents, et en particulier sa mère biologique, selon les circonstances, peuvent amener celui-ci à se structurer en faux self ou dans une protection psychique sous forme de clivage du Moi. Le clivage se décline au niveau des imagos parentales et peut diffuser dans de nombreux aspects relationnels et psycho-affectifs de la vie de cet enfant. La reconnaissance et l’élaboration de ses traumatismes, dans le transfert, au cours d’une cure analytique, peut aider l’enfant devenu adulte à se réunifier, à expérimenter et vivre finalement, son propre sentiment continu d’exister, lui permettant de poursuivre une vie plus apaisée.
Condillac historien et penseur politique. Luxe, propriété et contrat social dans le Cours d’études
Authors: Paganini Gianni
Published: January 2019

La théorie politique de Condillac est contenue dans sa conception de l’histoire, et toutes deux se distinguent de la philosophie de Rousseau. On ne devrait pas croire, pour autant, que la position caractéristique de Condillac soit celle d’un « modéré » pur et simple. On peut douter que Condillac ait jamais envisagé une révolution complète de la société et de la politique françaises. Il est certain, en revanche, qu’il a jugé possible et même souhaitable une réforme assez radicale des principes politiques de l’Ancien Régime, suggérant rien de moins que la démolition de son principal pilier, l’absolutisme de droit divin. Il se démarqua aussi de la théorie du contrat social soutenue par Rousseau. Invoquée par celui‑ci afin d’établir l’« égalité morale et légitime » à la place des inégalités physiques ou de talents, la théorie du contrat social se propose chez Condillac plutôt comme une doctrine « libérale », au sens classique de ce mot à l’âge des Lumières, que « démocratique » dans le sens du philosophe de Genève.