bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Milk Protein Polymorphism Characterization: a Modern Tool for Sustainable Conservation of Endangered Romanian Cattle Breeds in the Context of Traditional Breeding
Authors: Grădinaru Andrei , Petrescu-Mag Ioan , Oroian Firuţa , Balint Claudia , Oltean Ion
Published: February 2018

The paper aims to review literature data with respect to Romanian native cattle breeds which are considered at risk of extinction. In the last decades, the number of individuals of Romanian indigenous cows decreased significantly, as a consequence of the intensification and specialization of animal productions and agriculture modernization. Some of the native cattle breeds are already lost, due to their crossing with improved breeds. However, after the accession of Romania to the European Union, various preservation programs were initiated, and most of them included biochemical research and studies of molecular or quantitative genetics. All these, associated with the application of reproduction biotechnologies, give a chance to these animals, which are extremely valuable in terms of their genetic resistance to diseases and environmental factors. The reviewed literature on Romanian indigenous endangered cattle breeds confirms that these animals are carriers of a valuable gene pool, which can be kept and bred while applying different reproductive biotechnologies. Consequently, this paper raises awareness on two issues: the decrease of genetic diversity in two Romanian native cow breeds threatened with extinction (Grey Steppe and Romanian Pinzgauer); and the benefits of genetic diversity of the two breeds.
Actual and Balanced Stand Structure: Examples from Beech-Fir-Spruce Old-Growth Forests in the Area of the Dinarides in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Govedar Zoran , Krstić Milun , Keren Srđan , Babić Violeta , Zlokapa Brane , Kanjevac Branko
Published: February 2018

Old-growth forests are spontaneously developed forest ecosystems without direct human influence in which only natural processes take place. In this study we analyzed the structural sustainability of beech-fir-spruce old-growth forests on dolomite and limestone in the Bosnian Dinaric Mountains. The field work was carried out on permanent experimental plots of 1.0 hectare in size. Thereby, the diameters (d1.30) and the height (h) of all trees within the plots were measured. Based on the available literature, we hypothesized that the structure of old-growth forests provides sustainability through tree-size demographic equilibrium. Thus, the data collected were used to test possible differences between the actual and the theoretically balanced structure in the studied old-growth forests. Statistically significant difference in the actual structure between the two old-growth forests on limestone and dolomite was determined. However, both of them exhibited sustainable diameter distributions. These results point to the importance of preserving old-growth forests for future research as they exemplify the tree-size demographic sustainability and can thus serve as an appropriate reference to managed forests. Concretely, certain structural attributes from old-growth forests could be embedded into the management objectives for increased resilience of managed forests.
Managing Water Sustainability: Virtual Water Flows and Economic Water Productivity Assessment of the Wine Trade between Italy and the Balkans
Authors: Miglietta Pier Paolo , Morrone Domenico
Published: February 2018

The management of natural resources in economic activities has become a fundamental issue when considering the perspective of sustainable development. It is necessary to rethink every process in order to reach efficiency from different points of view, not only environmentally but also economically. Water scarcity is growing because of economic and population growth, climate change, and the increasing water demand. Currently, agri-food represents the most water consumptive sector, and the increasing importance of international trade in this industry puts freshwater issues in a global context that should be analyzed and regulated by sustainable policies. This analysis is focused on virtual water flows and economic water productivity related to the wine trade, and aims to evaluate water loss/savings achieved through bilateral trade relations. The choice fell on Italy, the first wine producer in the world, and the Balkan countries. The latter are new markets for wine production/consumption, in which Italian wines are strongly positioned for different reasons. The results show that, from a national point of view and considering wine trade, Italy exports water in virtual form to the Balkan countries, more than it imports, so that in effect it partially uses its own water resources for the wine supply of the Balkans. The latter, on the other hand, being a net importer of wine, partially depends on Italian water resources and exerts less pressure on their own water basins in the supporting wine supply. We also observed that the wine trade between Italy and the Balkans implies global water savings.
A Single Tri-Epitopic Antibody Virtually Recapitulates the Potency of a Combination of Three Monoclonal Antibodies in Neutralization of Botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype A
Authors: Lou Jianlong , Wen Weihua , Conrad Fraser , Meng Qi , Dong Jianbo , Sun Zhengda , Garcia-Rodriguez Consuelo , Farr-Jones Shauna , Cheng Luisa W. , Henderson Thomas D. , Brown Jennifer L. , Smith Theresa J. , Smith Leonard A. , Cormier Anthony , Marks James D.
Published: February 2018

The standard of treatment for botulism, equine antitoxin, is a foreign protein with associated safety issues and a short serum half-life which excludes its use as a prophylactic antitoxin and makes it a less-than-optimal therapeutic. Due to these limitations, a recombinant monoclonal antibody (mAb) product is preferable. It has been shown that combining three mAbs that bind non-overlapping epitopes leads to highly potent botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) neutralization. Recently, a triple human antibody combination for BoNT/A has demonstrated potent toxin neutralization in mouse models with no serious adverse events when tested in a Phase I clinical trial. However, a triple antibody therapeutic poses unique development and manufacturing challenges. Thus, potentially to streamline development of BoNT antitoxins, we sought to achieve the potency of multiple mAb combinations in a single IgG-based molecule that has a long serum half-life. The design, production, and testing of a single tri-epitopic IgG1-based mAb (TeAb) containing the binding sites of each of the three parental BoNT/A mAbs yielded an antibody of nearly equal potency to the combination. The approach taken here could be applied to the design and creation of other multivalent antibodies that could be used for a variety of applications, including toxin elimination.
Characterization of the Venom of C. d. cumanesis of Colombia: Proteomic Analysis and Antivenomic Study
Authors: Quintana-Castillo Juan Carlos , Vargas Leidy Johana , Segura Cesar , Estrada-Gómez Sebastián , Bueno-Sánchez Julio César , Alarcón Juan Carlos
Published: February 2018

The Colombian rattlesnake Crotalus durissus cumanensis is distributed in three geographic zones of the country: the Atlantic Coast, the upper valley of the Magdalena River, and the eastern plains of the Colombian Orinoquía. Its venom induces neurological symptoms, such as eyelid ptosis, myasthenic facies, and paralysis of the respiratory muscles, which can lead to death. Identification and analysis of C. d. cumanensis showed nine groups of proteins responsible for the neurotoxic effect, of which the crotoxin complex was the most abundant (64.71%). Immunorecognition tests of C. d. cumanensis showed that the use of a commercial antivenom manufactured in Mexico resulted in immunoreactivity.
Quantifying the Trends in Land Surface Temperature and Surface Urban Heat Island Intensity in Mediterranean Cities in View of Smart Urbanization
Authors: Polydoros Anastasios , Mavrakou Thaleia , Cartalis Constantinos
Published: February 2018

Land Surface Temperature (LST) is a key parameter for the estimation of urban fluxes as well as for the assessment of the presence and strength of the surface urban heat island (SUHI). In an urban environment, LST depends on the way the city has been planned and developed over time. To this end, the estimation of LST needs adequate spatial and temporal data at the urban scale, especially with respect to land cover/land use. The present study is divided in two parts: at first, satellite data from MODIS-Terra 8-day product (MOD11A2) were used for the analysis of an eighteen-year time series (2001–2017) of the LST spatial and temporal distribution in five major cities of the Mediterranean during the summer months. LST trends were retrieved and assessed for their statistical significance. Secondly, LST values and trends for each city were examined in relation to land cover characteristics and patterns in order to define the contribution of urban development and planning on LST; this information is important for the drafting of smart urbanization policies and measures. Results revealed (a) positive LST trends in the urban areas especially during nighttime ranging from +0.412 °K in Marseille to +0.923 °K in Cairo and (b) the SUHI has intensified during the last eighteen years especially during daytime in European Mediterranean cities, such as Rome (+0.332 °K) and Barcelona (+0.307 °K).
Clarifying Theoretical and Applied Land-Use Planning Concepts
Authors: Lagopoulos Alexandros
Published: February 2018

Land-use planning is currently characterised by three weaknesses: a relative lack of systematic analysis of the theoretical and technical aspects of planning, a neglect of methodology and a lack of interest in clarifying key concepts. The present paper attempts to address these issues in a systematic manner on the basis of an explicit epistemological background. The strategy adopted is to focus on ten critical concepts covering the key areas of the field of land-use planning theory. The discussion is organised into two main sections, one on theory and one on methodology, which are examined both in their general sense and specifically as they apply to planning theory. Through an analytical discussion of each of the ten concepts and a critique of previous approaches, the paper proposes a new kind of land-use planning theory, spatiology, considered as a prerequisite for applied land-use planning, and a new view on the structuring of land-use planning methodology. The final aim of the paper is not simply to list the concepts, but to formulate an organised conceptual whole resulting from their interrelation which can provide a solid foundation for planning theory.
A Survey on West Nile and Usutu Viruses in Horses and Birds in Poland
Authors: Bażanów Barbara , Jansen van Vuren Petrus , Szymański Piotr , Stygar Dominika , Frącka Agnieszka , Twardoń Jan , Kozdrowski Roland , Pawęska Janusz T.
Published: February 2018

West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are members of the family Flaviviridae which, natural life cycles involve mosquito–bird–mosquito transmission. Both represent emerging viruses in Europe with potential to cause neuroinvasive disease in humans. This study investigates the seroprevalence of serum neutralizing antibodies to WNV and to USUV in birds and in horses in Poland. Antibodies against WNV and USUV were detected in 5 (35.7%) and in 1 (7.14%) of 14 birds and in 62 (15.08%) and in 115 (27.98%) of 411 horses, respectively. Twenty-one WNV serologically positive horses (33.87%) and 67 USUV serologically positive horses (58.26%) did not travel outside Polish borders. Given the high abundance of potentially competent mosquito species in Poland, high populations of horses and different bird species, our findings highlight implementation of active control programs, including monitoring of geographic spread and dynamics of WNV and USUV transmission in both primary and accidental hosts. It is also important to improve public health awareness about the disease these viruses may cause.
Redrawing Soil Salinity Innovation-Focused Stakeholder Interaction for Sustainable Land Management in Khorezm Province, Uzbekistan
Authors: Akramkhanov Akmal , Ul Hassan Muhammad Mehmood , Hornidge Anna-Katharina
Published: February 2018

Addressing soil salinity in irrigated drylands is tightly linked with water and land management decisions thus requiring interdisciplinary engagement. The salinity mapping approaches in Central Asia are undertaken through field sampling and laboratory analysis, which is a time consuming process. As a consequence, salinity maps are not available on time to estimate water requirements to cope with varying levels of soil salinity. Reducing the time lag between assessment and delivery of such maps would enable authorities to determine in advance appropriate water volumes for leaching the salts before and during the growing season. Research initiated in Uzbekistan context explored transdisciplinary and participatory approach to innovation development with local stakeholders. As one of the innovations, an electromagnetic induction meter (EM), a tool for rapid salinity assessment, was chosen and jointly with local salinity mapping related institutions tested, validated, and local capacities for its use developed. This paper redraws this process of innovation-focused stakeholder interaction and transdisciplinary research and discusses it with reference to ongoing debates on participatory and/or transdisciplinary innovation research. The existence of strong path dependencies within implementation oriented organizations could be observed, meaning that the innovation demands many changes to the existing system. Furthermore, the encountered challenges of participatory, transdisciplinary research in the hierarchically shaped setting of post-soviet Uzbekistan are illustrated in selected qualitative field notes and assessed. For improved joint learning and research in a transdisciplinary team, feedback cycles of mutual learning and critical reflection of how to theoretically and practically work in a transdisciplinary manner turned out to be crucial and not to be underestimated.
Calibration of Spatially Distributed Hydrological Processes and Model Parameters in SWAT Using Remote Sensing Data and an Auto-Calibration Procedure: A Case Study in a Vietnamese River Basin
Authors: Ha Lan , Bastiaanssen Wim , Van Griensven Ann , Van Dijk Albert , Senay Gabriel
Published: February 2018

In this paper, evapotranspiration (ET) and leaf area index (LAI) were used to calibrate the SWAT model, whereas remotely sensed precipitation and other climatic parameters were used as forcing data for the 6300 km2 Day Basin, a tributary of the Red River in Vietnam. The efficacy of the Sequential Uncertainty Fitting (SUFI-2) parameter sensitivity and optimization model was tested with area specific remote sensing input parameters for every Hydrological Response Units (HRU), rather than with measurements of river flow representing a large set of HRUs, i.e., a bulk calibration. Simulated monthly ET correlations with remote sensing estimates showed an R2 = 0.71, Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency NSE = 0.65, and Kling Gupta Efficiency KGE = 0.80 while monthly LAI showed correlations of R2 = 0.59, NSE = 0.57 and KGE = 0.83 over a five-year validation period. Accumulated modelled ET over the 5-year calibration period amounted to 5713 mm compared to 6015 mm of remotely sensed ET, yielding a difference of 302 mm (5.3%). The monthly flow at two flow measurement stations were adequately estimated (R2 = 0.78 and 0.55, NSE = 0.71 and 0.63, KGE = 0.59 and 0.75 for Phu Ly and Ninh Binh, respectively). This outcome demonstrates the capability of SWAT model to obtain spatial and accurate simulation of eco-hydrological processes, also when rivers are ungauged and the water withdrawal system is complex.
Skin Effect of Fresh Water Measured Using Distributed Temperature Sensing
Authors: Solcerova Anna , Van Emmerik Tim , Van de Ven Frans , Selker John , Van de Giesen Nick
Published: February 2018

A phenomenon known as the skin effect—a layer of surface water that is colder than the water beneath it—was previously described in oceanography and verified in lab measurements. Only a few measurements have been done on the skin effect in field conditions, and therefore this phenomenon is relatively unknown. This paper presents measurements of the skin effect for three fresh water bodies in the Netherlands, Israel and Ghana. Using Distributed Temperature Sensing, high temporal and spatial resolution measurements were made below, at and above the air–water surface. Measurements presented in this study suggest that the skin effect of fresh water bodies is predominantly a daytime phenomenon and only occurs during low to zero wind speeds. The thickness of the skin effect was measured to be an order of magnitude larger than the previously assumed less than 1 mm.
Experimental Study on the Palatability Impacts of Potable Water as a Hydronic Medium
Authors: Prybysh Robert , Al-Hussein Mohamed , Fleck Brian , Sadrzadeh Mohtada , Osolu Jeremiah
Published: February 2018

Hydronic systems installed in buildings utilize water to transport thermal energy within the building for heating and cooling purposes. These systems can be closed loop, where the water is chemically treated and circulated indefinitely, or they can be open loop, where the water is not treated and is effluxed as a result of occupant activities, such as bathing or cooking. Water in an open loop system may circulate within the system for a limited time before it is extracted from the system by occupant activities and replaced with new water from the local water supply. The implementation of open loop hydronic systems is becoming more common in multi-unit residential buildings, even though a number of questions regarding the use of such systems remain unanswered. One concern regarding the use of circulated potable water for heating purposes is the potential effects on the occupant perceptions of the palatability of the service water being delivered to their suites. In an open-loop HVAC system (Heating Ventilating, Air Conditioning System), heating water is subject to repeated thermal cycles and continuous recirculation, which creates the potential for chemical alterations of the materials present in the water or leaching of materials from the equipment and piping. Through the use of Flavor Profile Analysis (FPA) established by the American Water Works Association, and a multi-unit HVAC system constructed in a controlled environment, the palatability effects of the operational system were evaluated for a number of scenarios. The collected feedback from the study participants was then tabulated to quantify the impacts of using potable water as a recirculating heating medium on the perceptions of the occupants. The resulting observations led us to conclude that utilizing potable water as a heating medium has a negligible effect on the palatability of water in the system for average retention times under one day, and a non-objectionable, but noticeable, effect for higher average retention times.
Multivariate Hybrid Modelling of Future Wave-Storms at the Northwestern Black Sea
Authors: Lin-Ye Jue , García-León Manuel , Gràcia Vicente , Ortego M. Isabel , Stanica Adrian , Sánchez-Arcilla Agustín
Published: February 2018

The characterization of future wave-storms and their relationship to large-scale climate can provide useful information for environmental or urban planning at coastal areas. A hybrid methodology (process-based and statistical) was used to characterize the extreme wave-climate at the northwestern Black Sea. The Simulating WAve Nearshore spectral wave-model was employed to produce wave-climate projections, forced with wind-fields projections for two climate change scenarios: Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) 4.5 and 8.5. A non-stationary multivariate statistical model was built, considering significant wave-height and peak-wave-period at the peak of the wave-storm, as well as storm total energy and storm-duration. The climate indices of the North Atlantic Oscillation, East Atlantic Pattern, and Scandinavian Pattern have been used as covariates to link to storminess, wave-storm threshold, and wave-storm components in the statistical model. The results show that, first, under both RCP scenarios, the mean values of significant wave-height and peak-wave-period at the peak of the wave-storm remain fairly constant over the 21st century. Second, the mean value of storm total energy is more markedly increasing in the RCP4.5 scenario than in the RCP8.5 scenario. Third, the mean value of storm-duration is increasing in the RCP4.5 scenario, as opposed to the constant trend in the RCP8.5 scenario. The variance of each wave-storm component increases when the corresponding mean value increases under both RCP scenarios. During the 21st century, the East Atlantic Pattern and changes in its pattern have a special influence on wave-storm conditions. Apart from the individual characteristics of each wave-storm component, wave-storms with both extreme energy and duration can be expected in the 21st century. The dependence between all the wave-storm components is moderate, but grows with time and, in general, the severe emission scenario of RCP8.5 presents less dependence between storm total energy and storm-duration and among wave-storm components.
Hydrological Responses to Various Land Use, Soil and Weather Inputs in Northern Lake Erie Basin in Canada
Authors: Daggupati Prasad , Shukla Rituraj , Mekonnen Balew , Rudra Ramesh , Biswas Asim , Goel Pradeep K. , Prasher Shiv , Yang Wanhong
Published: February 2018

In the last decade, Lake Erie, one of the great lakes bordering Canada and the USA has been under serious threat due to increased phosphorus levels originating from agricultural fields. Large scale watersheds contributing to Lake Erie from the USA side are being simulated using hydrological and water quality (H/WQ) models such as the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the results from the model are being used by policy and decision makers to implement better management decisions to solve emerging phosphorus issues. On the Canadian side, modeling applications are limited to either small watersheds or one major watershed contributing to Lake Erie. To the best of our knowledge, no efforts have been made to model the entire contributing watersheds to Lake Erie from Canada. This study applied the SWAT model for Northern Lake Erie Basin (NLEB; entire contributing basin to Lake Erie). Various provincial, national and global inputs of weather, land use and soil at various resolutions was assessed to evaluate the effects of input data types on the simulation of hydrological processes and streamflows. Twelve scenarios were developed using the input combinations and selected scenarios were evaluated at selected locations along the Grand and Thames Rivers using model performance statistics, and graphical comparisons of time variable plots and flow duration curves (FDCs). In addition, various hydrological components such as surface runoff, water yield, and evapotranspiration were also evaluated. Global level coarse resolution weather and soil did not perform better compared to fine resolution national data. Interestingly, in the case of land use, global and national/provincial land use were close, however, fine resolution provincial data performed slightly better. This study found that interpolated weather data from Environment Canada climate station observations performed slightly better compared to the measured data and therefore could be a good choice to use for large-scale H/WQ modeling studies.
Solitary Wave and Periodic Wave Solutions for a Class of Singular p-Laplacian Systems with Impulsive Effeects
Authors: Kong Fanchao , Luo Zhiguo , Qiu Hongjun
Published: February 2018

This work deals with the existence of periodic wave solutions and nonexistence of solitary wave solutions for a class of second-order singular p-Laplacian systems with impulsive effects. A sufficient criterion for the solutions of the considered system is provided via an innovative method of the mountain pass theorem and an approximation technique. Some corresponding results in the literature can be enriched and extended.
The Genealogical Tree of Ethanol: Gas-phase Formation of Glycolaldehyde, Acetic Acid, and Formic Acid
Authors: Skouteris Dimitrios , Balucani Nadia , Ceccarelli Cecilia , Vazart Fanny , Puzzarini Cristina , Barone Vincenzo , Codella Claudio , Lefloch Bertrand
Published: February 2018

Despite the harsh conditions of the interstellar medium, chemistry thrives in it, especially in star-forming regions where several interstellar complex organic molecules (iCOMs) have been detected. Yet, how these species are synthesized is a mystery. The majority of current models claim that this happens on interstellar grain surfaces. Nevertheless, evidence is mounting that neutral gas-phase chemistry plays an important role. In this paper, we propose a new scheme for the gas-phase synthesis of glycolaldehyde, a species with a prebiotic potential and for which no gas-phase formation route was previously known. In the proposed scheme, the ancestor is ethanol and the glycolaldehyde sister species are acetic acid (another iCOM with unknown gas-phase formation routes) and formic acid. For the reactions of the new scheme with no available data, we have performed electronic structure and kinetics calculations deriving rate coefficients and branching ratios. Furthermore, after a careful review of the chemistry literature, we revised the available chemical networks, adding and correcting several reactions related to glycolaldehyde, acetic acid, and formic acid. The new chemical network has been used in an astrochemical model to predict the abundance of glycolaldehyde, acetic acid, and formic acid. The predicted abundance of glycolaldehyde depends on the ethanol abundance in the gas phase and is in excellent agreement with the measured one in hot corinos and shock sites. Our new model overpredicts the abundance of acetic acid and formic acid by about a factor of 10, which might imply a yet incomplete reaction network.
Survey Observations to Study Chemical Evolution from High-mass Starless Cores to High-mass Protostellar Objects. I. HC3N and HC5N
Authors: Taniguchi Kotomi , Saito Masao , Sridharan T. K. , Minamidani Tetsuhiro
Published: February 2018

We carried out survey observations of HC3N and HC5N in the 42−45 GHz band toward 17 high-mass starless cores (HMSCs) and 35 high-mass protostellar objects (HMPOs) with the Nobeyama 45 m radio telescope. We have detected HC3N from 15 HMSCs and 28 HMPOs, and HC5N from 5 HMSCs and 14 HMPOs, respectively. The average values of the column density of HC3N are found to be

and

cm−2 in HMSCs and HMPOs, respectively. The average values of the fractional abundance of HC3N are derived to be

and

in HMSCs and HMPOs, respectively. We find that the fractional abundance of HC3N decreases from HMSCs to HMPOs using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test. On the other hand, its average value of the column density slightly increases from HMSCs to HMPOs. This may imply that HC3N is newly formed in dense gas in HMPO regions. We also investigate the relationship between the column density of HC3N in HMPOs and the luminosity-to-mass ratio (L/M), a physical evolutional indicator. The column density of HC3N tends to decrease with the increase of the L/M ratio, which suggests that HC3N is destroyed by the stellar activities.
The Sloan Digital Sky Survey Reverberation Mapping Project: The C iv Blueshift, Its Variability, and Its Dependence Upon Quasar Properties
Authors: Sun Mouyuan , Xue Yongquan , Richards Gordon T. , Trump Jonathan R. , Shen Yue , Brandt W. N. , Schneider D. P.
Published: February 2018

We use the multi-epoch spectra of 362 quasars from the Sloan Digital Sky Survey Reverberation Mapping project to investigate the dependence of the blueshift of C iv relative to Mg ii on quasar properties. We confirm that high-blueshift sources tend to have low C iv equivalent widths (EWs), and that the low-EW sources span a range of blueshift. Other high-ionization lines, such as He ii, also show similar blueshift properties. The ratio of the line width (measured as both the full width at half maximum and the velocity dispersion) of C iv to that of Mg ii increases with blueshift. Quasar variability enhances the connection between the C iv blueshift and quasar properties (e.g., EW). The variability of the Mg ii line center (i.e., the wavelength that bisects the cumulative line flux) increases with blueshift. In contrast, the C iv line center shows weaker variability at the extreme blueshifts. Quasars with the high-blueshift C iv lines tend to have less variable continuum emission, when controlling for EW, luminosity, and redshift. Our results support the scenario that high-blueshift sources tend to have large Eddington ratios.
The Megamaser Cosmology Project. X. High-resolution Maps and Mass Constraints for SMBHs
Authors: Zhao W. , Braatz J. A. , Condon J. J. , Lo K. Y. , Reid M. J. , Henkel C. , Pesce D. W. , Greene J. E. , Gao F. , Kuo C. Y. , Impellizzeri C. M. V.
Published: February 2018

We present high-resolution (submas) Very Long Baseline Interferometry maps of nuclear H2O megamasers for seven galaxies. In UGC 6093, the well-aligned systemic masers and high-velocity masers originate in an edge-on, flat disk and we determine the mass of the central supermassive black holes (SMBH) to be M
SMBH = 2.58 × 107
M
⊙ (±7%). For J1346+5228, the distribution of masers is consistent with a disk, but the faint high-velocity masers are only marginally detected, and we constrain the mass of the SMBH to be in the range (1.5–2.0) × 107
M
⊙. The origin of the masers in Mrk 1210 is less clear, as the systemic and high-velocity masers are misaligned and show a disorganized velocity structure. We present one possible model in which the masers originate in a tilted, warped disk, but we do not rule out the possibility of other explanations including outflow masers. In NGC 6926, we detect a set of redshifted masers, clustered within a parsec of each other, and a single blueshifted maser about 4.4 pc away, an offset that would be unusually large for a maser disk system. Nevertheless, if it is a disk system, we estimate the enclosed mass to be M
SMBH < 4.8 × 107
M
⊙. For NGC 5793, we detect redshifted masers spaced about 1.4 pc from a clustered set of blueshifted features. The orientation of the structure supports a disk scenario as suggested by Hagiwara et al. We estimate the enclosed mass to be M
SMBH < 1.3 × 107
M
⊙. For NGC 2824 and J0350−0127, the masers may be associated with parsec- or subparsec-scale jets or outflows.
Relativistic Astronomy
Authors: Zhang Bing , Li Kunyang
Published: February 2018

The “Breakthrough Starshot” aims at sending near-speed-of-light cameras to nearby stellar systems in the future. Due to the relativistic effects, a transrelativistic camera naturally serves as a spectrograph, a lens, and a wide-field camera. We demonstrate this through a simulation of the optical-band image of the nearby galaxy M51 in the rest frame of the transrelativistic camera. We suggest that observing celestial objects using a transrelativistic camera may allow one to study the astronomical objects in a special way, and to perform unique tests on the principles of special relativity. We outline several examples that suggest transrelativistic cameras may make important contributions to astrophysics and suggest that the Breakthrough Starshot cameras may be launched in any direction to serve as a unique astronomical observatory.
A new species of the rare, deep-sea polychaete genus Benthoscolex from the Sea of Kumano, Japan (Annelida, Amphinomidae)
Authors: Jimi Naoto , Kimura Taeko , Ogawa Akito , Kajihara Hiroshi
Published: February 2018

A new species of amphinomid polychaete, Benthoscolexseisuiaesp. n., is described from the Sea of Kumano, Japan, from depths of 487–596 m. The species is distinguishable from its congeners by the following features: i) palps 1.8 times as long as lateral antennae; ii) branchiae do not reach to the tip of the notochaetae. This is the first record of Benthoscolex from Japan. A partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene sequence from the holotype of B.seisuiaesp. n. is provided for reliable species identification in the future.
Optimization of Multi-Layer Dome Structures for Enhanced Performance and Comfort of Protector Pads
Authors: Yang Chul Ho , Chang Young , Lee Dong Chan , Park Jun Young
Published: February 2018

A multi-material, multi-layer dome structure is proposed for desigining futuristic body protection pads that will address a safety issue prominent among the population of elderly people, patients, industry workers, military personnel, and sport players. Those people are prone to be subjected to blunt impacts due to falls, bullets, and blast waves, which can result in serious injuries, early death, and extremely high medical costs. Protector pads can effectively reduce impact force and prevent injuries in high-risk individuals. However, most currently available protection pads are bulky, heavy, or rigid. Therefore, new body protectors need to be developed to satisfy the requirements of wearing comfort, ease of fitting, ensured protection, and cost-effectiveness. Out of many different design ideas generated, the most promising ones were identified through an evaluation process based on various criteria such as performance, comfort, and manufacturability. One of those designs utilizes a dome-shaped top layer and thin fabric membrane component that is very strong in tension but flexible in bending. Such structure will make the pads excellent in dissipating shock energy by diverting normal impact force to lateral direction and minimizing the force directly transmitted to the weakest body parts. Through finite element analyses, the best combinations of materials and components were identified. The selected pad structure was optimized for light-weight and flexibility while keeping excellent resistance to the compression. The thickness of the shell element and the overall thickness of the whole pad were optimized for the same level of deflection and stress as other simple shell pads. The results showed that the dome-shaped structure could be a useful component of effective body protection pads through optimal combination of various materials and layers.
Research of Aerodynamic Characteristics of Asbestos-Cement Dust in the Ventilation Emissions to the Atmosphere
Authors: Azarov V.N. , Stefanenko I.V. , Burkhanova R.A.
Published: February 2018

The article describes the chemical properties of asbestos-cement dust and its effect on the human body. The main sources of dust emission at the enterprise for the production of asbestos-cement have been determined. Also in this research were determined the aerodynamic properties of particles of asbestos dust at the plant for the production of asbestos by method of fractional sedimentation. In the course of the experiment, the dispersion composition of dust was determined by the method of sedimentometry and analysis by means of a microscope and a PC. The dependence of the dust settling rate on the equivalent diameter of a particle in a probability-logarithmic grid is revealed.
Tilted Dendritic Growth Dynamics and Dendrite to Degenerate Seaweed Transition in Directional Solidification: Insights from Phase-Field Simulations
Authors: Xing Hui , Dong Xiang Lei , Wang Jian Yuan , Jin Ke Xin
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we review our results from phase field simulations of tilted dendritic growth dynamics and dendrite to seaweed transition in directional solidification of a dilute alloy. We focus on growth direction selection, stability range and primary spacing selection, and degenerate seaweed-to-tilted dendrite transition in directional solidification of non-axially orientated crystals. For growth direction selection, the DGP law (Phys. Rev. E, 78 (2008) 011605) was modified through take the anisotropic strength and pulling velocity into account. We confirm that the DGP law is only validated in lower pulling velocity. For the stability range and primary spacing selection, we found that the lower limit of primary spacing is irrelative to the misorientation angle but the upper limit is nonlinear with respect to the misorientation angle. Moreover, predicted results confirm that the power law relationship with the orientation correction by Gandin et al. (Metall. Mater. Trans. A. 27A (1996) 2727-2739) should be a universal scaling law for primary spacing selection. For the seaweed-to-dendrite transition, we found that the tip-splitting instability in degenerate seaweed growth dynamics is related to the M-S instability dynamics, and this transition originates from the compromise in competition between two dominant mechanisms, i.e., the macroscopic thermal field and the microscopic interfacial energy anisotropy.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Atoms Diffusion in Solid
Authors: Zhou Yu Lu , Tao Xiao Ma , Hou Qing , Ouyang Yi Fang
Published: February 2018

Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, which treat atoms as point particles and trace their individual trajectories, are always employed to investigate the transport properties of a many-body system. The diffusion coefficients of atoms in solid can be obtained by the Einstein relation and the Green-Kubo relation. An overview of the MD simulations of atoms diffusion in the bulk, surface and grain boundary is provided. We also give an example of the diffusion of helium in tungsten to illustrate the procedure, as well as the importance of the choice of interatomic potentials. MD simulations can provide intuitive insights into the atomic mechanisms of diffusion.
Individual shareholder activism in South Africa: The case of Theo Botha
Authors: Viviers Suzette
Published: February 2018

Shareholder activists play a key role in monitoring managerial behaviour. This study was undertaken given the paucity of research on the shareholder activism as practised by individual shareholders. Accordingly, the motives, modus operandi and sources of salience of Mr Theo Botha, a well-known shareholder activist in South Africa, were investigated. Document analysis and an in-depth interview conducted with Botha revealed that he not only has a clear goal, but is also very passionate about achieving his goal. Botha prepares meticulously before engaging companies across the economic spectrum. In addition to possessing normative power, Botha also exhibits individual, pragmatic and societal legitimacy. His assertiveness, persistence and willingness to apply his own resources significantly contribute to his prominence as a corporate watchdog. Shareholder activists who wish to become more salient (irrespective of their size) could learn from Botha’s experiences over the past decade.
Maladies du tractus respiratoire chez les Psittacidés
Authors: Wailly Philippe de
Published: February 2018

The author emphasizes the frequence of the lesions of Aspergillosis in Psittacide. The means of contamination are connected with the ingestion of sunflower seeds. A protocol for the treatment of Fungae is proposed : intramuscular and intrasinus injections of Amphotericine B, nebulizations, and Flucytosine dissolved in the drinking water. A differential diagnostic of principal respiration diseases in Parrots should be made with : Mycoplanma, Bacterial infections (Klebsiella, Pseudomonas... Psittacosis, Trichomonosas), synbamus trachea (Gapeworm), air sac mites, thyroid hyperplasis...
Évolution de l’image échographique du produit de conception chez la vache
Authors: Chaffaux Stéphane
Published: February 2018

Real-time echotomography paterns of the bovine conceptus during early pregnancy .

Echotomography was performed on approximately 150 cows by transrectal route during the first trimester of gestation. Accurate images of the conceptus were collected throughout the course of this period. More specifically, an embryonic vesicule can be observed on the screen as early as 28 days after insemination.

Finally, this study refers to the validation and interest of such a new tool in the assessment of late embryonic mortality incidence.
Application de l’échographie au diagnostic de la gestation chez la chienne «Braque de Weimar»
Authors: Boulet Daniel
Published: February 2018

L'auteur rapporte une étude faite sur une dizaine de chienne Braque de Weimar, en collaboration avec un médecin échographe, afin de déterminer la gestation le plus précocément possible. Actuellement ce diagnostic peut être posé avec certitude 10 jours après la saillie.
Salmonellose à Salmonella Typhimurium chez le poulain
Authors: Vaissaire Josée , Plateau Éric , Corbion B. , Moutou François , Gayot Georges
Published: February 2018

Les auteurs décrivent l’apparition de foyers importants de Salmonellose équine en France en 1981, provoquant la mort de jeunes poulains de 1 à 3 mois et quelques avortements sur les juments.

Le portage par les animaux adultes apparemment sains est important.

Cette épidémie de Salmonelloses est due à Salmonella typhimurium V. Copenhague, si cette salmonelle appartient à un biotype particulier (biotype b) connu, elle appartient par contre à un lyzotype encore inconnu en France.

Cette salmonelle a d’autre part la particularité d'être multirésistante aux antibiotiques et, de ce fait, les auteurs attirent l’attention des vétérinaires, éleveurs et médecins en leur demandant une grande vigilance et une certaine prudence concernant des traitements intempestifs et «aveugles» avec des antibiotiques.
Recherche des anticorps antilegionella chez les bovins en France
Authors: Espinasse Jacques , Tram C. , Mollaret Henri H. , Viso Michel , Perrin Myriam , Fédida Maurice , Rousseau D. , Lambert Ph.
Published: February 2018

A serological examination (microagglutination and indirect fluorescent-antibody-test) carried out in France on 1 043 serum samples taken from cattle affected and non affected with respiratory diseases suggests that the probability is low that bacteria of the genus Legionella take part in bovine pathology. Also cattle do not seem to play an important rôle in Legionnaire Disease.
Le syndrome dilatation-torsion de l'estomac (S.D.T.E.) chez le chien
Authors: Corlouer J.-P.
Published: February 2018

The importance of the gastric torsion-dilatation syndrome is often belittled. The predisposing, faborable and determinant causes are studied, as well as the physiopathogeny of the dilatation, torsion and shock.

The therapeutic approach is then discussed : treatment of the shock and surgical techniques. The prophylactic, sanitary and surgical methods are considered.

The dilatation torsion is presented as a syndrome, and not as a morbid entity.
Le problème des anabolisants en France et dans les pays du Marché Commun
Authors: Richou-Bac Lucien
Published: February 2018

The use of anabolic hormones in animal production raises great problems in european countries.

The E.E.C. directive 81/602 of July 31, 1981 has forbidden stilbenes and put under considerations the anabolic compounds : estradiol 170, progesterone, testosterone, trenbolone and zeranol. The recall of chemical structures and effective regulations is followed by a survey of metabolism and analytical methods.

For anabolic hormones control, the actually tendancy refers to physical and chemicals methods (H.P.T.L.C.) and biochemical methods (R.I.A.). The toxicological and qualitative aspects are seen with aid of the most recent scientific bases.
Contrôle des résidus de thyréostatiques dans la thyroïde et le muscle du bovin. Recherche et dosage dans les aliments
Authors: Pochard Marie-France
Published: February 2018

Residues of methyl-thiouracil (M.T.U.) were controlled by high performance thin-layer chromatography (H.P.T.L.C.) in thyroid glands sampled in the slaughter house, whose weight was equal or superior to 60g, in meat and animal feed. For 181 thyroid glands analysed, 67% contained M.T.U. residues (a few ppb to 50 ppm) ; for 46 meat samples. 36% contained M.T.U. residues (a few ppb to 1 ppm) ; for 71 animal feed samples, 16 contained M.T.U. (0,3 or 3%).
Immunité anti-pancréatique dans le diabète insulino-dépendant du chien : un nouveau modèle de diabète humain de type I
Authors: Saï Pierre , Sachs M. , Jondet A. , Assan R.
Published: February 2018

L'existence de réactions immunitaires anti-pancréatiques a été recherchée chez 6 chiens diabétiques insulinodépendants (DID), en utilisant des cellules pancréatiques de souris comme cellules ciblés in vitro. Les lymphocytes de ces chiens DID altéraient significativement l'insulino-sécrétion des cellules pancréatiques, suggérant l’existence d'une immunité cellulaire. La sécrétion d'insuline était aussi altérée par les sérums de 4 des 6 chiens diabétiques, en présence de complément (C'), suggérant l'existence d’une immunité humorale anti-pancréatique. Une augmentation significative du relargage de chrome 51 des cellules pancréatiques en

Sresence des sérums DID confirmait l'existence d'anticorps fixant le C' et cytotoxiques pour les cellules. Le DID canin pourrait représenter un modèle important pour l'étude des phénomènes auto-immuns dans le DID humain.
Incidence du jeûne et du transport sur les performances zootechniques du veau de boucherie. Essais de prévention durant la période d’adaptation : cas de la Fluméquine
Authors: Joussellin Wilfrid
Published: February 2018

Avant leur arrivée dans un atelier d’élevage, les jeunes veaux de souche laitière subissent une série d'agressions liées à la nécessité de constituer des lots d’animaux âgés d’une quinzaine de jours.

Les jeunes veaux sont en général fatigués, déshydratés et ne reprennent leur poids d’origine que vers le 12-15e jour.

A Grignon, en utilisant des animaux nés sur l'exploitation de la ferme, nous avons constaté qu'un jeûne de 48 h sur des veaux n’ayant pas eu à subir les contraintes d’un transport ou qu'un transport de 4 à 8 h chez des animaux régulièrement alimentés ne déterminait aucune perte de poids vif durant la première semaine d'élevage après leur réception.

L’administration par voie orale durant 10 jours consécutifs de Fluméquine, antibactérien de synthèse actif sur les colibacilles, permet de contrôler les diarrhées infectieuses des jeunes veaux et se traduit par une récupération rapide du poids vif des veaux.

La stabilité de la forme soluble de cette quinolone permet de traiter simultanément les veaux d'une bande d'élevage après incorporation dans l’aliment d’allaitement.
Processus prolifératif de la région tonsillaire chez le chat
Authors: Auclair-Sémeré G. , Groulade Paul
Published: February 2018

The authors are undertaking a clinical, hemobiochemical and histological study of an inflammation of the tonsil region in the Cat Species.

It raises the possibility of the problem originating from immunology.