bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Apple Production in Fraiburgo, Brazil, 1958-1989
Authors: Klanovicz Jó
Published: June 2016

This article explores connections between the “domestication” of apples in Southern Brazil, the polemic on contaminated apples in 1989, and the reactions of the apple industry to the news published in the press on the use of pesticides in Brazilian orchards. The issue is viewed in the wider context of notions of toxicity and “danger”, nature control, correction of nature, and temperate climate agriculture in Brazil, which have become very influential both in the public consciousness and in individual awareness, in connection with aspirations to healthier and safer food. The article states that apple producers’ responses to the issue can be much better understood through a historical examination of the agroecology of the apple monoculture, as well as the structures, agents, and discourses informing perceptions of the environment in apple-producing regions.
Green Colonialism and Forest Policies in South India, 1800-1900
Authors: Kumar V.M. Ravi
Published: June 2016

British colonial rule and its impact on the environment of the Indian sub-continent has made for a fascinating historical research subject over the last three decades. While exploitation of forests and the socio-economic impact of the process on tribal and other forest-dependent communities are well documented, the role of scientific discourse in facilitating the hegemonic control of the colonial state over forests had not been adequately treated in the existing literature. This article looks at the history of colonial forest policies in South India to argue that initially British destroyed most the accessible forests by logging them for shipbuilding, railways and the requirements of the military and public works departments. When the sustainability of the wood supply emerged as a problem, desiccationist ideas began to be systematically propagated. The desiccationist discourse branded forest utilisation by the natives as the main culprit for deforestation and the consequent reduction of the water flow of some rivers in South India. This alarmist discourse facilitated the control of the colonial state over most of the forests in South India by establishing a rhetoric of the preservation of forests as a means to save the environment and irrigation as prerequisites for the well-being of the agrarian economy. This article illustrates how desiccationist fears were used to justify the colonial state’s monopolistic control over the forests of South India.
Responses to Air Pollution Based on Historical and Current Policies in the EU and ASEAN
Authors: Goodsite Michael , Wong Mei Ling Catherine , Hertel Ole
Published: June 2016

This review paper focuses on an important new question: how can climate change affect maritime and other cities of Southeast Asia, and what challenges and possible responses can be identified based on historical and current regional policies and action, especially with regard to air pollution? This review was undertaken as part of the ISDP and ISEAS sponsored initiative: Regional Cooperation in Environmental Protection: Lessons from Two Regions (EU and ASEAN). We examined the cases of the EU and ASEAN policies for the protection of air quality from a scientific practitioner’s point of view. We seek to ascertain if ASEAN can respond to regional human-induced environmental problems given existing problems of national sovereignty and the interest-based character of ASEAN-type associations, since ASEAN’s goal, in contrast to that of the EU, has been regional cooperation rather than regional integration. Both regions are responding differently to climate change and the global economic and environmental realities resulting from, or arising in reaction to, their policies (or lack thereof ). While the EU and ASEAN can and should learn from one another and their relations have been the subject of studies (see for example), there are still challenges to be addressed to effectively drive improvement of critical regional (air) pollution issues that may ultimately impact health and productivity. Each regional organization has in its own manner made exemplary efforts towards resolving environmental degradation within its own region and taken efforts to make a positive international impact, but there is still the need for international treaties and more local efforts to empower the regional visions. Our aim is to highlight the status of the respective policy frameworks and exemplify areas in which we can learn from one another in the field of air pollution, given its global relevance for climate change. We conclude by suggesting a strategic summary framework for future action. This paper is not meant to be a history of either EU or ASEAN policy; for this, the reader is referred instead to appropriate literature, most notably the EU Environmental Policy Handbook, especially the air quality chapter (3) with excellent background information on European Atmospheric Environment Policy.
Colonial Famine Relief and Development Policies: Towards an Environmental History of Northern Ghana
Authors: Grischow Jeff , Weiss Holger
Published: June 2016

Since the 1980s, scientific experts have made a number of recommendations for averting food insecurity and famine in Northern Ghana and other dryland areas of West Africa. These studies are based on regional meteorological data, and their suggestions include early warning systems, smallholder agricultural development, and the depopulation of densely settled regions. Much of this literature posits two main hypotheses: that regional data can provide a reliable indicator of the potential for harvest failure, and that the recommended policy actions can work because they are new and innovative, without historical precedent. This article delves into the colonial past to challenge both of these hypotheses. Using Northern Ghana as a case study, we question the usefulness of regional data for understanding food insecurity, and we show that the supposedly novel ideas of the present in fact have a strong colonial lineage.
Intussuscepted Sigmoid Colonic Lipoma Mimicking Carcinoma Rectum
Authors: Roy Sharmistha , Mondal Samiron Kumar , Maitra Tapash Kumar
Published: June 2016

Adult colorectal intussusception is a relatively rare condition. It is different from that of a child in that, most cases have an organic etiology like a malignant or benign neoplasm. This is a 40 year female patient presenting with passage of blood and mucous per rectum later diagnosed as sigmoidorectal intussusception due to submucous lipoma in sigmoid colon that was protruding through anus giving the appearance of a large polypoid rectal growth.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1) Supplement: 56-58
Estimation of interrelationships among some quality factors of jute seeds
Authors: Mamun Md Al , Shamsi S , Bashar MA
Published: June 2016

The storage mycoflora associated with seeds of 21 accessions of Corchorus capsularis L. were isolated and identified. Blotter, Paper towel and Agar plate methods were used to isolate the fungi associated with seeds. A total of ten species of fungi viz. Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. terreus, Curvularia lunata, Colletotrichum corchori, Fusarium oxysporum, Eurotium sp., Penicillium sp. and Rhizopus stolonifer were isolated from the selected jute seeds. Aspergillus spp. and Colletotrichum corchori were predominant in most of the jute accessions. Accession No. A-3047 showed the highest fungal incidence and Accession Nos. A-3361, A-2734 and A-877 showed the lowest. Accession No. A-3361 showed the highest seed germination while Accession No. A-3309 showed the lowest. Mortality of seedling showed the highest in Accession No. A-3309 and the lowest in Accession No. A-3361. Physical purity of seed recorded the highest in Accession No. A- 3361 and the lowest in Accession No. A-3309. There were negative correlation between percentage of fungi and percentage of germination and between percentage of fungi and physical purity of seeds. Positive correlation was observed between percentage of fungi and seedling mortality and between purity of seed and germination of seed.Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 25(1): 9-17, 2016
Co-resistance to Chromium and Antibiotics in Bacteria Isolated from Tannery Wastes
Authors: Mahmud Jalish , Chowdhury Miraj Kobad , Sami Abdullah Bashar , Akhand Anwarul Azim , Ahsan Nazmul
Published: June 2016

Bacteria isolated from tannery wastes were evaluated for their resistance towards chromium (Cr) as well as antibiotics. Out of the twelve isolates, three bacterial strains showed Cr resistance even at 10 mg/ml concentration and were cocci in shape. Antibiogram suggested that these Cr-resistant bacteria were also resistant to multiple antibiotics. This study suggested that exposure to Cr in the environment can also lead to the development of antibiotic resistant microorganisms. Future research will disclose the mechanism underlying the existence of such dual resistance and also its impact on public health.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(2): 193-197, 2015 (December)
Effect of Different Saw Dust Substrates on the Nutritional Composition of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus florida) and its Applications in Human Health
Authors: Paul Ratan Kumar , Bhattacharjya Debu Kumar , Kabir Abul Kalam Lutful , Rashid Md Harun Or , Rahaman Md Samsur , Rahaman Md Saifur , Miah Md Nuruddin , Ahmed Kamal Uddin
Published: June 2016

This study evaluated the effects of various sawdust substrates, namely Ficus carica (Fig tree, T2), Albizia saman (Rain Tree, T3), Swietenia mahagoni (Mahogany tree, T4), Leucaena leucocephala (Ipil ipil tree, T5), Eucalyptus oblique (Indian gum tree, T6) and mixture of mentioned five trees sawdust (T1) supplemented with 30% wheat bran and 1% lime on the mineral content and nutritional composition analyses of Plurotus florida mushroom. The highest amount of carbohydrate (43.68mg/100g), dry matter (9.87%), nitrogen (4.43%), potassium (1.39%), magnesium (19.96mg/100g) and iron (44.69mg/100g) were obtained from T4 sawdust substrate. The highest amount of phosphorous (0.89%) was obtained from T1 substrate. The highest amount of lipid (4.21%), protein (27.68%), ash (13.67%), moisture (90.27%) and molybdenum (9.76mg/100g) were obtained from T2 sawdust substrate. The lowest amount of lipid (3.42%) was found for T6 substrate. The highest amount of crude fiber (19.78%), calcium (33.35mg/100g) and selenium (9.10 mg/100g) were obtained from T5 substrate. The highest amount of cobalt (21.07mg/100g) and zinc (30.26mg/100g) were obtained from T3 sawdust substrate. Thus, they could be an excellent source of many different nutraceuticals and might be used directly in human diet to promote health for the synergistic effects of all the bioactive compounds present. The study proved beneficial for effective management of agricultural wastes as well as production of nutraceutical effective fruiting bodies for balanced diet.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(2): 215-223, 2015 (December)
Sensitivity Analysis of the Tetrapolar Electrical Impedance Measurement Systems Using COMSOL Multiphysics for the non-uniform and Inhomogeneous Medium
Authors: Shuvo Onic Islam , Islam Md Naimul
Published: June 2016

One of the major problems with Electrical Impedance Tomography (EIT) is the lack of spatial sensitivity within the measured volume. In this paper, sensitivity distribution of the tetrapolar impedance measurement system was visualized considering a cylindrical phantom consisting of homogeneous and inhomogeneous medium. Previously, sensitivity distribution was analysed analytically only for the homogeneous medium considering simple geometries and the distribution was found to be complex1,2. However, for the inhomogeneous volume conductors sensitivity analysis needs to be done using finite element method (FEM). In this paper, the results of sensitivity analysis based on finite element method using COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software are presented. A cylindrical non-uniform, inhomogeneous phantom, which mimics the human upper arm, was chosen to do the experiments by varying different parameters of interest. A successful method for controlling the region of interest was found where the sensitivity was maximum. Refining the finite element mesh size and introducing multifrequency input current (up to 1 MHz) this simulation method can be further improved.Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 64(1): 7-13, 2016 (January)
Drowning of Under 18 Children in Bangladesh: Analysis of Risk Factors Using MICS 2006 Data
Authors: Chowdhury Farzana , Gulshan Jahida
Published: June 2016

In Bangladesh, drowning is the single leading cause of death among children aged 1 to 17 years. With a view of measuring the drowning of under 18 children in Bangladesh, this paper attempts to analyze different factors responsible for drowning by using the MICS 2006 data. Bivariate analysis is employed to examine the factors related to drowning and logistic regression model is used to determine the contribution of different significant factors to drowning. This study found that divisions, residing in flood prone area or riverbank and wealth index have significant association with drowning. Children residing in flood prone area and riverbank have greater risk of drowning as compared to their counterparts.Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 64(1): 21-24, 2016 (January)
A New Technique for Solving Transportation Problems by Using Decomposition-Based Pricing and its Implementation in Real Life
Authors: Chakroborty Sajal , Hasan M Babul
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we develop a new technique for solving transportation problems (TP) and develop a computer code by using mathematical programming language AMPL. There are many existing techniques for solving TP problems in use. By these techniques one has to determine initial basic feasible solution at first then improve this solution to determine optimal solution by another method. But this process is very lengthy and time consuming. By our technique we can determine optimal solution directly without determining initial basic feasible solution and optimal solution separately and we hope that this technique will provide an easier way than that of the other methods. We use the idea of decomposition based pricing (DBP) method to develop our technique. To our knowledge, there is no other paper which used DBP to solve TP. We demonstrate our technique by solving real life models developed by collecting data from a business organization of Bangladesh.Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 64(1): 45-50, 2016 (January)
MHD Mixed Convection Flow of a Micropolar Fluid Past a Wedge Fixed in a Fluctuating Free Stream and Surface Temperature
Authors: Roy NC , Akther P , Halder AK
Published: June 2016

The flow an  heat transfer on the unstea y laminar mixe  convection boun ary layer in a micropolar flui  past a vertical we ge have been stu ie  taking into account the effect of magnetic fiel . We assume that the free stream velocity an  surface temperature oscillate in magnitu e but not in the  irection of the oncoming flow velocity. The governing equations have been solve  numerically by using the straight forwar  finite  ifference metho . The amplitu es of skin friction an  couple stress are foun  to be significantly  epen ent on the Richar sons number, Ri, the magnetic parameter, M, an  the vortex viscosity parameter, K. We observe that the amplitu es of skin friction an  couple stress increases owing to an increase of the Richar sons number, Ri, while these become lower for the higher value of the magnetic parameter, M, an  the vortex viscosity parameter, K. Also the results  emonstrate that the effects of the parameters on the amplitu es of heat transfer are rather weak. Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 64(1): 65-70, 2016 (January)
Hausdorffs Grundz?ge der Mengenlehre
Authors: Chowdhury Munibur Rahman
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableGANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 34 (2014) 1-4
Some Curvature Properties in LP-Sasakian Manifolds with Respect to Generalized Tanaka Webster Okumura Connection
Authors: Akbar Ali , Sarkar A , Ali Md Showkat
Published: June 2016

The object of the present paper is to study LP-Sasakian manifolds with respect to generalized Tanaka Webster Okumura connection. We have studied locally ?-symmetric as well as locally projectively ?-symmetric LP-Sasakian manifolds with respect to a generalized Tanaka Webster Okumura connection. Locally ?-recurrent LP-Sasakian manifolds have also been studied with respect to generalized Tanaka Webster Okumura connection.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 34 (2014) 47-55
Ribosomal Antibiotics: Contemporary Challenges
Authors: Auerbach-Nevo Tamar , Baram David , Bashan Anat , Belousoff Matthew , Breiner Elinor , Davidovich Chen , Cimicata Giuseppe , Eyal Zohar , Halfon Yehuda , Krupkin Miri , Matzov Donna , Metz Markus , Rufayda Mruwat , Peretz Moshe , Pick Ophir , Pyetan Erez , Rozenberg Haim , Shalev-Benami Moran , Wekselman Itai , Zarivach Raz , Zimmerman Ella , Assis Nofar , Bloch Joel , Israeli Hadar , Kalaora Rinat , Lim Lisha , Sade-Falk Ofir , Shapira Tal , Taha-Salaime Leena , Tang Hua , Yonath Ada
Published: June 2016

Most ribosomal antibiotics obstruct distinct ribosomal functions. In selected cases, in addition to paralyzing vital ribosomal tasks, some ribosomal antibiotics are involved in cellular regulation. Owing to the global rapid increase in the appearance of multi-drug resistance in pathogenic bacterial strains, and to the extremely slow progress in developing new antibiotics worldwide, it seems that, in addition to the traditional attempts at improving current antibiotics and the intensive screening for additional natural compounds, this field should undergo substantial conceptual revision. Here, we highlight several contemporary issues, including challenging the common preference of broad-range antibiotics; the marginal attention to alterations in the microbiome population resulting from antibiotics usage, and the insufficient awareness of ecological and environmental aspects of antibiotics usage. We also highlight recent advances in the identification of species-specific structural motifs that may be exploited for the design and the creation of novel, environmental friendly, degradable, antibiotic types, with a better distinction between pathogens and useful bacterial species in the microbiome. Thus, these studies are leading towards the design of “pathogen-specific antibiotics,” in contrast to the current preference of broad range antibiotics, partially because it requires significant efforts in speeding up the discovery of the unique species motifs as well as the clinical pathogen identification.
A Simulation-Based Study on Bayesian Estimators for the Skew Brownian Motion
Authors: Barahona Manuel , Rifo Laura , Sepúlveda Maritza , Torres Soledad
Published: June 2016

In analyzing a temporal data set from a continuous variable, diffusion processes can be suitable under certain conditions, depending on the distribution of increments. We are interested in processes where a semi-permeable barrier splits the state space, producing a skewed diffusion that can have different rates on each side. In this work, the asymptotic behavior of some Bayesian inferences for this class of processes is discussed and validated through simulations. As an application, we model the location of South American sea lions (Otaria flavescens) on the coast of Calbuco, southern Chile, which can be used to understand how the foraging behavior of apex predators varies temporally and spatially.
Fast EEMD Based AM-Correntropy Matrix and Its Application on Roller Bearing Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Fu Yunxiao , Jia Limin , Qin Yong , Yang Jie , Fu Ding
Published: June 2016

Roller bearing plays a significant role in industrial sectors. To improve the ability of roller bearing fault diagnosis under multi-rotating situation, this paper proposes a novel roller bearing fault characteristic: the Amplitude Modulation (AM) based correntropy extracted from the Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMFs), which are decomposed by Fast Ensemble Empirical mode decomposition (FEEMD) and employ Least Square Support Vector Machine (LSSVM) to implement intelligent fault identification. Firstly, the roller bearing vibration acceleration signal is decomposed by FEEMD to extract IMFs. Secondly, IMF correntropy matrix (IMFCM) as the fault feature matrix is calculated from the AM-correntropy model of the primary vibration signal and IMFs. Furthermore, depending on LSSVM, the fault identification results of the roller bearing are obtained. Through the bearing identification experiments in stationary rotating conditions, it was verified that IMFCM generates more stable and higher diagnosis accuracy than conventional fault features such as energy moment, fuzzy entropy, and spectral kurtosis. Additionally, it proves that IMFCM has more diagnosis robustness than conventional fault features under cross-mixed roller bearing operating conditions. The diagnosis accuracy was more than 84% for the cross-mixed operating condition, which is much higher than the traditional features. In conclusion, it was proven that FEEMD-IMFCM-LSSVM is a reliable technology for roller bearing fault diagnosis under the constant or multi-positioned operating conditions, and as such, it possesses potential prospects for a broad application of uses.
Flexible Grouping for Enhanced Energy Utilization Efficiency in Battery Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Diao Weiping , Jiang Jiuchun , Liang Hui , Zhang Caiping , Jiang Yan , Wang Leyi , Mu Biqiang
Published: June 2016

As a critical subsystem in electric vehicles and smart grids, a battery energy storage system plays an essential role in enhancement of reliable operation and system performance. In such applications, a battery energy storage system is required to provide high energy utilization efficiency, as well as reliability. However, capacity inconsistency of batteries affects energy utilization efficiency dramatically; and the situation becomes more severe after hundreds of cycles because battery capacities change randomly due to non-uniform aging. Capacity mismatch can be solved by decomposing a cluster of batteries in series into several low voltage battery packs. This paper introduces a new analysis method to optimize energy utilization efficiency by finding the best number of batteries in a pack, based on capacity distribution, order statistics, central limit theorem, and converter efficiency. Considering both battery energy utilization and power electronics efficiency, it establishes that there is a maximum energy utilization efficiency under a given capacity distribution among a certain number of batteries, which provides a basic analysis for system-level optimization of a battery system throughout its life cycle. Quantitative analysis results based on aging data are illustrated, and a prototype of flexible energy storage systems is built to verify this analysis.
Analysis and Controller Design of a Universal Bidirectional DC-DC Converter
Authors: Liu Kou-Bin , Liu Chen-Yao , Liu Yi-Hua , Chien Yuan-Chen , Wang Bao-Sheng , Wong Yong-Seng
Published: June 2016

In this paper, first the operating principles of a non-isolated universal bidirectional DC-DC converter are studied and analyzed. The presented power converter is capable of operating in all power transferring directions in buck/boost modes. Zero voltage switching can be achieved for all the power switches through proper modulation strategy design, therefore, the presented converter can achieve high efficiency. To further improve the efficiency, the relationship between the phase-shift angle and the overall system efficiency is analyzed in detail, an adaptive phase-shift (APS) control method which determines the phase-shift value between gating signals according to the load level is then proposed. As the modulation strategy is a software-based solution, there is no requirement for additional circuits, therefore, it can be implemented easily and instability and noise susceptibility problems can be reduced. To validate the correctness and the effectiveness of the proposed method, a 300 W prototyping circuit is implemented and tested. A low cost dsPIC33FJ16GS502 digital signal controller is adopted in this paper to realize the power flow control, DC-bus voltage regulation and APS control. According to the experimental results, a 12.2% efficiency improvement at light load and 4.0% efficiency improvement at half load can be achieved.
Correction: Trishkin, M., et al. Assessment of a Company’s Due Diligence System against the EU Timber Regulation: A Case Study from Northwestern Russia. Forests 2015, 6, 1380–1396
Authors: Trishkin Maxim , Lopatin Eugene , Karjalainen Timo
Published: June 2016

The authors wish to make the following corrections to this paper [1]: The authors would like to apologize for any inconvenience caused to the readers by these changes.[...]
A Numerical Study on Curvilinear Free Surface Flows in Venturi Flumes
Authors: Zerihun Yebegaeshet
Published: June 2016

Venturi flumes are one of the most important flow-measuring structures commonly investigated by physical model tests in the past. The solutions to the Venturi flume flow problems were generally found on the basis of empirical equations arising from such tests. Nonetheless, the overall accuracy and range of applicability of these equations rely on the scope of the tests. Additionally, the hydraulic characteristics of free flows in short-throated flumes cannot be modelled by the conventional hydrostatic pressure approaches. In this study, a one-dimensional model, which incorporates a higher-order dynamic pressure correction for the effects of the sidewalls and streamline vertical curvatures, is applied to simulate such flows and elucidate relevant flow features. The model equations are discretised and solved using the finite difference scheme. The computed results for free surface profiles, pressure distributions at different sections and discharge characteristics are compared to measured data. The computational results exhibit good agreement with measured data. Overall, it is shown that the developed model is capable of accurately simulating the curvilinear flows in short-throated flumes with rounded transition and bottom humps. The results also highlight the detailed dependence of the discharge characteristics of the critical-flow flumes under free flow conditions on the curvature of the streamlines.
Modified Atmosphere Systems and Shelf Life Extension of Fish and Fishery Products
Authors: DeWitt Christina , Oliveira Alexandra
Published: June 2016

This review aims at summarizing the findings of studies published over the past 15 years on the application of modified atmosphere (MA) systems for shelf life extension of fish and fishery products. This review highlights the importance of CO2 in the preservation of seafood products, and underscores the benefits of combining MA technology with product storage in the superchilled temperature range. It is generally accepted that MA technology cannot improve product quality and should not be utilized as a substitute for good sanitation and strict temperature control. Benefits derived from application of MA, however, can significantly impact preservation of product quality and it subsequent shelf-life. For this reason, this review is the first of its kind to propose detailed handling and quality guidelines for fresh fish to realize the maximum benefit of MA technology.
Human Specific Regulation of the Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene
Authors: Zhang Fan , Cheng De , Wang Shuwen , Zhu Jiyue
Published: June 2016

Telomerase, regulated primarily by the transcription of its catalytic subunit telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), is critical for controlling cell proliferation and tissue homeostasis by maintaining telomere length. Although there is a high conservation between human and mouse TERT genes, the regulation of their transcription is significantly different in these two species. Whereas mTERT expression is widely detected in adult mice, hTERT is expressed at extremely low levels in most adult human tissues and cells. As a result, mice do not exhibit telomere-mediated replicative aging, but telomere shortening is a critical factor of human aging and its stabilization is essential for cancer development in humans. The chromatin environment and epigenetic modifications of the hTERT locus, the binding of transcriptional factors to its promoter, and recruitment of nucleosome modifying complexes all play essential roles in restricting its transcription in different cell types. In this review, we will discuss recent progress in understanding the molecular mechanisms of TERT regulation in human and mouse tissues and cells, and during cancer development.
Short-Term Exposure to Air Pollution and Cardiac Arrhythmia: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Song Xuping , Liu Yu , Hu Yuling , Zhao Xiaoyan , Tian Jinhui , Ding Guowu , Wang Shigong
Published: June 2016

The objective was to assess the transient association between air pollution and cardiac arrhythmia. Five databases were searched for studies investigating the association between daily increases in air pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and ozone) and arrhythmia hospitalization or arrhythmia mortality. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Outcomes were analyzed via a random-effects model and reported as relative risk and 95% confidence interval. 25 studies satisfied our inclusion criteria and 23 contributed to the meta-analysis. Arrhythmia hospitalization or mortality were associated with increases in PM2.5 (RR = 1.015 per 10 μg/m3, 95% CI: 1.006–1.024), PM10 (RR = 1.009 per 10 μg/m3, 95% CI: 1.004–1.014), carbon monoxide (RR = 1.041 per 1 ppm, 95% CI: 1.017–1.065), nitrogen dioxide (RR = 1.036 per 10 ppb, 95% CI: 1.020–1.053), and sulfur dioxide (RR = 1.021 per 10 ppb, 95% CI: 1.003–1.039), but not ozone (RR = 1.012 per 10 ppb, 95% CI: 0.997–1.027). Both particulate and gaseous components, with the exception of ozone, have a temporal association with arrhythmia hospitalization or mortality. Compared with Europe and North America, a stronger association was noted in Asia.
Retraction: Rabi, A.; Khader, Y.; Alkafajei, A.; Aqoulah, A.A. Sanitary Conditions of Public Swimming Pools in Amman, Jordan. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2008, 5, 152–157
Authors:   International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health Editorial Office
Published: June 2016

The title article [1] is a duplicate publication of [2].[...]
A Cross-Sectional Study of Heat Wave-Related Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among the Public in the Licheng District of Jinan City, China
Authors: Li Jing , Xu Xin , Ding Guoyong , Zhao Yun , Zhao Ruixia , Xue Fuzhong , Li Jing , Gao Jinghong , Yang Jun , Jiang Baofa , Liu Qiyong
Published: June 2016

Knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) are three key components for reducing the adverse health impacts of heat waves. However, research in eastern China regarding this is scarce. The present study aimed to evaluate the heat wave-related KAP of a population in Licheng in northeast China. This cross-sectional study included 2241 participants. Data regarding demographic characteristics, KAP, and heat illnesses were collected using a structured questionnaire. Univariate analysis and unconditional logistic regression models were used to analyze the data. Most residents had high KAP scores, with a mean score of 12.23 (standard deviation = 2.23) on a 17-point scale. Urban women and participants aged 35–44 years had relatively high total scores, and those with high education levels had the highest total score. There was an increased risk of heat-related illness among those with knowledge scores of 3–5 on an 8-point scale with mean score of 5.40 (standard deviation = 1.45). Having a positive attitude toward sunstroke prevention and engaging in more preventive practices to avoid heat exposure had a protective interaction effect on reducing the prevalence of heat-related illnesses. Although the KAP scores were relatively high, knowledge and practice were lacking to some extent. Therefore, governments should further develop risk-awareness strategies that increase awareness and knowledge regarding the adverse health impact of heat and help in planning response strategies to improve the ability of individuals to cope with heat waves.
Subinhibitory Concentrations of Allicin Decrease Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) Biofilm Formation, Adhesion Ability, and Swimming Motility
Authors: Yang Xiaolong , Sha Kaihui , Xu Guangya , Tian Hanwen , Wang Xiaoying , Chen Shanze , Wang Yi , Li Jingyu , Chen Junli , Huang Ning
Published: June 2016

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) biofilm formation enables the organism to avoid the host immune system, resist antibiotics, and provide a reservoir for persistent infection. Once the biofilm is established, eradication of the infection becomes difficult. Therefore, strategies against UPEC biofilm are urgently required. In this study, we investigated the effect of allicin, isolated from garlic essential oil, on UPEC CFT073 and J96 biofilm formation and dispersal, along with its effect on UPEC adhesion ability and swimming motility. Sub-inhibitory concentrations (sub-MICs) of allicin decreased UPEC biofilm formation and affected its architecture. Allicin was also capable of dispersing biofilm. Furthermore, allicin decreased the bacterial adhesion ability and swimming motility, which are important for biofilm formation. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) revealed that allicin decreased the expression of UPEC type 1 fimbriae adhesin gene fimH. Docking studies suggested that allicin was located within the binding pocket of heptyl α-d-mannopyrannoside in FimH and formed hydrogen bonds with Phe1 and Asn135. In addition, allicin decreased the expression of the two-component regulatory systems (TCSs) cognate response regulator gene uvrY and increased the expression of the RNA binding global regulatory protein gene csrA of UPEC CFT073, which is associated with UPEC biofilm. The findings suggest that sub-MICs of allicin are capable of affecting UPEC biofilm formation and dispersal, and decreasing UPEC adhesion ability and swimming motility.
Stable Isotope-Assisted Evaluation of Different Extraction Solvents for Untargeted Metabolomics of Plants
Authors: Doppler Maria , Kluger Bernhard , Bueschl Christoph , Schneider Christina , Krska Rudolf , Delcambre Sylvie , Hiller Karsten , Lemmens Marc , Schuhmacher Rainer
Published: June 2016

The evaluation of extraction protocols for untargeted metabolomics approaches is still difficult. We have applied a novel stable isotope-assisted workflow for untargeted LC-HRMS-based plant metabolomics , which allows for the first time every detected feature to be considered for method evaluation. The efficiency and complementarity of commonly used extraction solvents, namely 1 + 3 (v/v) mixtures of water and selected organic solvents (methanol, acetonitrile or methanol/acetonitrile 1 + 1 (v/v)), with and without the addition of 0.1% (v/v) formic acid were compared. Four different wheat organs were sampled, extracted and analysed by LC-HRMS. Data evaluation was performed with the in-house-developed MetExtract II software and R. With all tested solvents a total of 871 metabolites were extracted in ear, 785 in stem, 733 in leaf and 517 in root samples, respectively. Between 48% (stem) and 57% (ear) of the metabolites detected in a particular organ were found with all extraction mixtures, and 127 of 996 metabolites were consistently shared between all extraction agent/organ combinations. In aqueous methanol, acidification with formic acid led to pronounced pH dependency regarding the precision of metabolite abundance and the number of detectable metabolites, whereas extracts of acetonitrile-containing mixtures were less affected. Moreover, methanol and acetonitrile have been found to be complementary with respect to extraction efficiency. Interestingly, the beneficial properties of both solvents can be combined by the use of a water-methanol-acetonitrile mixture for global metabolite extraction instead of aqueous methanol or aqueous acetonitrile alone.
Fernblock (Polypodium leucotomos Extract): Molecular Mechanisms and Pleiotropic Effects in Light-Related Skin Conditions, Photoaging and Skin Cancers, a Review
Authors: Parrado Concepcion , Mascaraque Marta , Gilaberte Yolanda , Juarranz Angeles , Gonzalez Salvador
Published: June 2016

Healthier life styles include increased outdoors time practicing sports and walking. This means increased exposure to the sun, leading to higher risk of sunburn, photoaging and skin cancer. In addition to topical barrier products, oral supplementations of various botanicals endowed with antioxidant activity are emerging as novel method of photoprotection. Polypodium leucotomos extract (PL, commercial name Fernblock®, IFC Group, Spain) is a powerful antioxidant due to its high content of phenolic compounds. PL is administered orally, with proven safety, and it can also be used topically. Its mechanisms include inhibition of the generation and release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by ultraviolet (UV) light. It also prevents UV- and ROS-induced DNA damage with inhibition of AP1 and NF-κB and protection of natural antioxidant enzyme systems. At the cellular level, PL decreases cellular apoptosis and necrosis mediated UV and inhibits abnormal extracellular matrix remodeling. PL reduces inflammation, prevents immunosuppression, activates tumor suppressor p53 and inhibits UV-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme expression. In agreement with increased p53 activity, PL decreased UV radiation-induced cell proliferation. PL also prevents common deletions mitochondrial DNA damage induced by UVA, and MMP-1 expression induced Visible Light and Infrared Radiation. These cellular and molecular effects are reflected in inhibitions of carcinogenesis and photoaging.
The Immunogenicity of Colorectal Cancer in Relation to Tumor Development and Treatment
Authors: De Vries Natasja , Swets Marloes , Vahrmeijer Alexander , Hokland Marianne , Kuppen Peter
Published: June 2016

Although most cancer types have been viewed as immunologically silent until recently, it has become increasingly clear that the immune system plays key roles in the course of tumor development. Remarkable progress towards understanding cancer immunogenicity and tumor-immune system interactions has revealed important implications for the design of novel immune-based therapies. Natural immune responses, but also therapeutic interventions, can modulate the tumor phenotype due to selective outgrowth of resistant subtypes. This is the result of heterogeneity of tumors, with genetic instability as a driving force, and obviously changes the immunogenicity of tumors. In this review, we discuss the immunogenicity of colorectal cancer (CRC) in relation to tumor development and treatment. As most tumors, CRC activates the immune system in various ways, and is also capable of escaping recognition and elimination by the immune system. Tumor-immune system interactions underlie the balance between immune control and immune escape, and may differ in primary tumors, in the circulation, and in liver metastases of CRC. Since CRC immunogenicity varies between tumors and individuals, novel immune-based therapeutic strategies should not only anticipate the molecular profile, but also the immunological profile of a specific tumor.
Effect of Antimicrobial Denture Base Resin on Multi-Species Biofilm Formation
Authors: Zhang Keke , Ren Biao , Zhou Xuedong , Xu Hockin , Chen Yu , Han Qi , Li Bolei , Weir Michael , Li Mingyun , Feng Mingye , Cheng Lei
Published: June 2016

Our aims of the research were to study the antimicrobial effect of dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) modified denture base resin on multi-species biofilms and the biocompatibility of this modified dental material. Candida albicans (C. albicans), Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans), Streptococcus sanguinis (S. sanguinis), as well as Actinomyces naeslundii (A. naeslundii) were used for biofilm formation on denture base resin. Colony forming unit (CFU) counts, microbial viability staining, and 2,3-bis(2-methoxy-4-nitro-5-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium-5-carboxanilide (XTT) array were used to evaluate the antimicrobial effect of DMADDM. C. albicans staining and Real-time PCR were used to analyze the morphology and expression of virulence genes of C. albicans in biofilm. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) array and Real-time PCR were conducted to examine the results after biofilm co-cultured with epithelial cell. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining followed by histological evaluation were used to study the biocompatibility of this modified material. We found that DMADDM containing groups reduced both biomass and metabolic activity of the biofilm significantly. DMADDM can also inhibit the virulence of C. albicans by means of inhibiting the hyphal development and downregulation of two virulence related genes. DMADDM significantly reduced the cell damage caused by multi-species biofilm according to the LDH activity and reduced the expression of IL-18 gene of the cells simultaneously. The in vivo histological evaluation proved that the addition of DMADDM less than 6.6% in denture material did not increase the inflammatory response (p > 0.05). Therefore, we proposed that the novel denture base resin containing DMADDM may be considered as a new promising therapeutic system against problems caused by microbes on denture base such as denture stomatitis.
Structural Features and Potent Antidepressant Effects of Total Sterols and β-sitosterol Extracted from Sargassum horneri
Authors: Zhao Donghai , Zheng Lianwen , Qi Ling , Wang Shuran , Guan Liping , Xia Yanan , Cai Jianhui
Published: June 2016

The purified total sterols and β-sitosterol extracted from Sargassum horneri were evaluated for their antidepressant-like activity using the forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) in mice. Total sterols and β-sitosterol significantly reduced the immobility time in the FST and TST. Total sterols were administered orally for 7 days at doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, and β-sitosterol was administered intraperitoneally at doses of 10, 20, and 30 mg/kg. β-sitosterol had no effect on locomotor activity in the open field test. In addition, total sterols and β-sitosterol significantly increased NE, 5-HT, and the metabolite 5-HIAA in the mouse brain, suggesting that the antidepressant-like activity may be mediated through these neurotransmitters.
Capsaicin Inhibits Multiple Bladder Cancer Cell Phenotypes by Inhibiting Tumor-Associated NADH Oxidase (tNOX) and Sirtuin1 (SIRT1)
Authors: Lin Ming-Hung , Lee Yi-Hui , Cheng Hsiao-Ling , Chen Huei-Yu , Jhuang Fong-Han , Chueh Pin
Published: June 2016

Bladder cancer is one of the most frequent cancers among males, and its poor survival rate reflects problems with aggressiveness and chemo-resistance. Recent interest has focused on the use of chemopreventatives (nontoxic natural agents that may suppress cancer progression) to induce targeted apoptosis for cancer therapy. Capsaicin, which has anti-cancer properties, is one such agent. It is known to preferentially inhibit a tumor-associated NADH oxidase (tNOX) that is preferentially expressed in cancer/transformed cells. Here, we set out to elucidate the correlation between tNOX expression and the inhibitory effects of capsaicin in human bladder cancer cells. We showed that capsaicin downregulates tNOX expression and decreases bladder cancer cell growth by enhancing apoptosis. Moreover, capsaicin was found to reduce the expression levels of several proteins involved in cell cycle progression, in association with increases in the cell doubling time and enhanced cell cycle arrest. Capsaicin was also shown to inhibit the activation of ERK, thereby reducing the phosphorylation of paxillin and FAK, which leads to decreased cell migration. Finally, our results indicate that RNA interference-mediated tNOX depletion enhances spontaneous apoptosis, prolongs cell cycle progression, and reduces cell migration and the epithelial-mesenchymal transition. We also observed a downregulation of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) in these tNOX-knockdown cells, a deacetylase that is important in multiple cellular functions. Taken together, our results indicate that capsaicin inhibits the growth of bladder cancer cells by inhibiting tNOX and SIRT1 and thereby reducing proliferation, attenuating migration, and prolonging cell cycle progression.
Supplementation of Reduced Gluten Barley Diet with Oral Prolyl Endopeptidase Effectively Abrogates Enteropathy-Associated Changes in Gluten-Sensitive Macaques
Authors: Sestak Karol , Thwin Hazel , Dufour Jason , Liu David , Alvarez Xavier , Laine David , Clarke Adam , Doyle Anthony , Aye Pyone , Blanchard James , Moehs Charles
Published: June 2016

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune disorder that affects approximately three million people in the United States. Furthermore, non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) affects an estimated additional 6% of the population, e.g., 20 million in the U.S. The only effective treatment of CD and NCGS requires complete removal of gluten sources from the diet. While required adherence to a gluten-free diet (GFD) is extremely difficult to accomplish, efforts to develop additional supportive treatments are needed. To facilitate these efforts, we developed a gluten-sensitive (GS) rhesus macaque model to study the effects of novel therapies. Recently reported results from phase one of this project suggest that partial improvement—but not remission—of gluten-induced disease can be accomplished by 100-fold reduction of dietary gluten, i.e., 200 ppm—by replacement of conventional dietary sources of gluten with a mutant, reduced gluten (RG) barley (lys3a)-derived source. The main focus of this (phase two) study was to determine if the inflammatory effects of the residual gluten in lys3a mutant barley grain could be further reduced by oral supplementation with a prolylendopeptidase (PE). Results reveal that PE supplementation of RG barley diet induces more complete immunological, histopathological and clinical remission than RG barley diet alone. The combined effects of RG barley diet and PE supplementation resulted in a further decrease of inflammatory mediators IFN-γ and TNF secretion by peripheral lymphocytes, as well as decreased plasma anti-gliadin and anti-intestinal tissue transglutaminase (TG2) antibodies, diminished active caspase production in small intestinal mucosa, and eliminated clinical diarrhea—all comparable with a gluten-free diet induced remission. In summary, the beneficial results of a combined RG barley and PE administration in GS macaques may warrant the investigation of similar synergistic approaches.