bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Wolf and The Caribou: Coexistence of Decentralized Economies and Competitive Market
Authors: Freund Dr. Andreas , Stanko Danielle
Published: April 2018

Starting with BitTorrent and then Bitcoin, decentralized technologies have been on the rise over the last 15+ years, gaining significant momentum in the last 2+ years with the advent of platform ecosystems such as the Blockchain platform Ethereum. New projects have evolved from decentralized games to marketplaces to open funding models to decentralized autonomous organizations. The hype around cryptocurrency and the valuation of innovative projects drove the market cap of cryptocurrencies to over a trillion dollars at one point in 2017. These high valued technologies are now enabling something new: globally scaled, decentralized business models. Despite their valuation and the hype, these new business ecosystems are frail. This is not only because the underlying technology is rapidly evolving, but also because competitive markets see a profit opportunity in exponential cryptocurrency returns. This extracts value from these ecosystems, which could lead to their collapse, if unchecked. In this paper, we explore novel ways for decentralized economies to protect themselves from, and coexist with competitive markets at a global scale utilizing decentralized technologies such as Blockchain.
New Insight into the Octamer of Thymidylate Synthetase Stabilized by Intermolecular Cys43-Disulfide
Authors: Xie Dan , Wang Lulu , Xiao Qi , Wu Xiaoyan , Zhang Lin , Yang Qingkai , Wang Lina
Published: April 2018

Thymidylate synthase (TYMS) is an essential enzyme for the de novo synthesis of dTMP and has been a primary target for cancer chemotherapy. Although the physical structure of TYMS and the molecular mechanisms of TYMS catalyzing the conversion of dUMP to dTMP have been conducted thorough studies, oligomeric structure remains unclear. Here, we show that human TYMS not only exists in dimer but also octamer by intermolecular Cys43-disulfide formation. We optimize the expression condition of recombinant human TYMS using Escherichia coli system. Using HPLC-MS/MS, we show that purified TYMS has catalytic activity for producing dTMP. In the absence of reductant β-mercaptoethanol, SDS-PAGE and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) showed size of TYMS protein is about 35 KDa, 70 KDa, and 280 KDa. While the Cys43 was mutated to Gly, the band of ~280 KDa and the peak of octamer disappeared. Therefore, TYMS was determined to form octamer, dependent on the presence of Cys43-disulfide. By measuring Steady-State Parameters for monomer, dimer and octamer, we found the kcat of octamer is increased slightly than monomer. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that octamer in the active state might have a potential influence on the design of new drug targets.
The Effect of 200Gy 60Co-γ Radiation on the Body Stress Responses Sensitivity and Reproductive Reaction of Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus)
Authors: Li Xiaoxue , Luo Lingyan , Karthi Sengodan , Zhang Ke , Luo Jianjun , Hu Qiongbo , Weng Qunfang
Published: April 2018

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus), is one of the notorious pests causing substantial loses to many cruciferous vegetables across the nations. We have got the result that 200Gy dosage irradiated 6-day male pupae of P. xylostella inducing F1 generation sterile. First, in our research, we detected Oxidase system and stress response mechanism of irradiated pupae, the results displayed that 200Gy irradiation significantly alters the antioxidant enzyme regulation in 6-day male pupae of P. xylostella. The level of SOD, CAT were increased significantly in contrast the level of POD and GST were decreased in 12-24h post-treatment. The heat shock proteins (Hsps) gene expression level was significant increasing, maximum > 2 folds up-regulation of genes were observed in peak. But they also had a trend of gradual recovery with development. Second, in order to explore the irradiated sterility further, we detected the testis LDH and ACP activity found that in male adults testis they increased significantly than control during its development. Thus the present research investigation highlights that the 60Co-γ radiation treatments alters the physiological development of diamondback moth. The results showed that 200Gy dosage resulted stress damage to the body and reproductive system of the diamondback moth.
Anthrax in the Territory of Dagestan
Authors: Kulichenko A. N. , Buravtseva N. P. , Antyuganov S. N. , Omarieva E. Ya. , Ryazanova A. G. , Eremenko E. I. , Mezentsev V. M. , Tsygankova O. I. , Bryukhanova G. D. , Gadzhieva A. A. , Alzhanbekova I. G. , Bammatov D. M.
Published: April 2018

The aim of the study is to investigate anthrax epizootiologic and epidemiologic situation in the Republic of Dagestan over the period of 1944–2010. Anthrax morbidity has been registered in 38 regions and Makhachkala. All in all 1001 anthrax cases and 3128 sick rural animals have been registered. Determined are 420 anthrax specified potentially hazardous areas (SPHA), the majority of them (77.4 %) have formed before 1969. Regions of the republic have been checked against the level of risk connected with anthrax infecting over the last 40 years. Therewith, they have been classified into three groups: with low, medium, and high epizootiological-and-epidemiological potential. 15 regions with high epizootiological-and-epidemiological potential have been marked as potentially hazardous on a regular basis. These regions occupy 31 % of the republic`s territory and 52.5 % of the SPHA territory. 84 % of patients and 88 % of fallen animals have been registered there for the past 40 years.
Synthetic Biology: Risks and Prospects
Authors: Onishchenko G. G. , Kutyrev V. V. , Odinokov G. N. , Safronov V. A.
Published: April 2018

New area of biological studies that goes under general name of “synthetic biology” is a next step in the development of gene engineering associated with design and construction of unique biological systems with “preset” functions and properties, having no natural analogues. Nowadays synthetic biology is a source of innovations that offer solution to a number of global problems facing the humanity, including production of artificial genome-based multi-diagnostic panels, medicinal preparations, synthetic vaccine, etc. The process of unnatural life form creation requires conduction of monitoring both on the international and national scales using advanced system of biological risk assessment.
Макрозообентос рыхлых грунтов под мидийно-устричной фермой (Чёрное море, район Севастополя)
Authors: Болтачева Н. А. , Макаров М. В. , Бондаренко Л. В. , Ковалева М. А.
Published: April 2018

В ходе съёмки 2015–2016 гг. проведено исследование видового состава, численности и биомассы макрозообентоса под мидийно-устричной фермой, расположенной в районе г. Севастополя. Материал собирали с помощью легководолазной техники ручным дночерпателем. Отмечено относительно низкое видовое разнообразие, обнаружено 56 видов макрозообентоса. Плотность макробентоса варьировала в пределах 500–975 экз.·м-2, биомасса — от 0,8 до 383,1 г·м-2. Зарегистрировано сообщество двустворчатого моллюска Lucinella divaricata (Linnaeus, 1758). Выявлены руководящие, характерные и редкие виды. Проведено сравнение с данными 1957 г. в районе Евпатория — Севастополь на сходных глубинах и грунтах. Обнаруженное сообщество отличается от регистрируемого ранее низкой плотностью особей и более высокой долей детритофагов, среди которых преобладают мелкие полихеты-грунтоеды.
Локальный перелов черноморского шпрота (Sprattus sprattus: Clupeidae, Pisces) и внутривидовая дифференциация
Authors: Зуев Г. В. , Бондарев В. А. , Самотой Ю. В.
Published: April 2018

Черноморский шпрот (Sprattus sprattus) принадлежит к числу наиболее многочисленных видов рыб в Азово-Черноморском бассейне и является промысловым объектом во всех причерноморских странах. Его вылов достигает 100 тыс. тонн. Мониторинг состояния популяции и выявление факторов риска в условиях роста интенсивности промысла и изменения климата являются актуальными задачами. Предмет исследования данной статьи — оценка воздействия промысла на состояние популяции черноморского шпрота и определение перспективы дальнейшей эксплуатации его промыслового запаса. В основу публикации положены результаты собственных исследований и материалы ежегодных отчётов Научно-технического и экономического комитета по рыболовству (STECF) Европейской комиссии. Изучена многолетняя (2003–2013) динамика интегральных показателей размерно-возрастной структуры (средней длины и среднего возраста) и вылова шпрота из двух близких по климатическим условиям географических регионов — Крымского и Западного (шельф Болгарии и Румынии). Лов шпрота в обоих регионах производили с помощью разноглубинных тралов в зоне шельфа в придонном слое воды. Во всех расчётах использована стандартная длина (SL), выраженная в см. Установлены межрегиональные отличия показателей размерно-возрастной структуры и условий промысла. В Крымском регионе средняя длина шпрота изменялась от 5,57 до 6,85 см, среднемноголетняя — 6,43 см. Межгодовая амплитуда колебаний достигала 20 %. Средний возраст изменялся от 0,9 до 1,57 года, среднемноголетний составил 1,4 года. Установлены отрицательные тренды средней длины и среднего возраста, свидетельствующие об ухудшении состояния популяции в целом и её промыслового качества в частности. Годовой вылов шпрота изменялся от 11,4 до 24,8 тыс. т, среднемноголетний составил 16,09 тыс. т. Межгодовая амплитуда колебаний — более 2,2 раза. Установлена сопряжённость межгодовых колебаний высоких уловов и низких значений средней длины и среднего возраста, смещённых относительно вылова на один год вперёд, а также показана тесная отрицательная связь между ними (r = -0,81, p < 0,01 и r = -0,82, p < 0,01). В Западном регионе, в отличие от Крымского, шпрот более крупный. Его средняя длина изменялась от 7,24 до 7,62 см, среднемноголетняя — 7,46 см. Межгодовая амплитуда колебаний менее 5 % указывает на стабильное состояние популяции. Годовой вылов шпрота изменялся от 2,77 до 4,64 тыс. т, при этом уровень промысловой нагрузки на популяцию не превышал предельно допустимого. Среднемноголетний вылов составил 3,75 тыс. т, что в 4,3 раза ниже, чем в Крымском регионе. Связь между выловом и средней длиной шпрота, смещённой на один год вперёд, отсутствует (r = -0,27, p > 0,15). Локальный перелов шпрота в Крымском регионе в сочетании с многолетней, последовательно прогрессирующей деградацией состояния популяции следует рассматривать как косвенный показатель структурированности промыслового запаса, предполагающий внутривидовую дифференциацию. Данный вывод носит предварительный характер, необходимы дальнейшие исследования.
Corollospora intermedia и Nia globospora [as ’Nia globispora’] — новые для Чёрного моря виды морских грибов
Authors: Копытина Н. И.
Published: April 2018

В прибрежной зоне Чёрного моря обнаружены два новых вида морских грибов: аскомицет Corollospora intermedia (I. Schmidt) E. B. G. Jones 1969 и базидиомицет Nia globospora Barata & Basilio 1997 [as ’Nia globispora’ Barata & Basilio 1997]. Приведено морфологическое описание грибов, представлены фотографии. Обобщены данные о распространении грибов этих видов. Морфометрические параметры грибов из Чёрного моря не отличаются от таковых из других районов их распространения. Вид N. globospora впервые указан для морей России.
Н. В. Морозова-Водяницкая на Новороссийской биологической станции: первые годы (1920–1926) — самые трудные
Authors: Русанов К. В.
Published: April 2018

По материалам личного дела Н. В. Морозовой-Водяницкой, отчётам Новороссийской биологической станции и другим публикациям описана деятельность этого научного учреждения в первый период его истории (1920–1926).
К 125-летию Владимира Алексеевича Водяницкого
Authors: Корнийчук Ю. М.
Published: April 2018

В январе 2018 г. исполнилось 125 лет со дня рождения Владимира Алексеевича Водяницкого — личности, знаковой для гидробиологической науки.
Effect of Sodium Chloride and Manganese in Irrigation Water on Cotton Growth
Authors: Chen Wenling , Wang Zaimin , Jin Menggui , Ferré Ty P.A. , Wang Jiale , Huang Jinou , Wang Xiao
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Cotton vegetative growth tends to be highest when both NaCl and Mn concentrations in irrigation water were low. In contrast, the cotton reproductive growth parameters were higher for elevated NaCl and Mn concentrations in irrigation water.

There was an antagonistic relationship for the combined effect of NaCl and Mn on cotton growth and yield.

Na content in cotton leaves generally increased as NaCl concentration in irrigation water increased. However, the excess Mn concentration in irrigation water inhibited the absorption of Na.

The ratios of K/Na and Ca/Na in the cotton plant generally decreased as NaCl concentration in irrigation water increased.

Using saline water for irrigation carefully may produce adequate cotton yield as the micronutrients in saline water can alleviate the salt damage.

Brackish water is used widely for agriculture around the world. The elevated NaCl and Mn content in brackish water can impose toxicity stress on crops, including cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.). However, there have been no previous studies of the combined effects of NaCl and Mn on cotton growth. This study presents greenhouse pot experiments with 30 different NaCl and Mn conditions. The results show that the cotton vegetative growth tends to be highest when both NaCl and Mn concentrations in irrigation water were low. In contrast, the cotton reproductive growth parameters were higher for elevated NaCl and Mn concentrations in irrigation water. There was an antagonistic relationship for the combined effect of NaCl and Mn on cotton growth and yield. The Mn content in cotton leaves increased with increasing Mn concentration in the 4.5–72 µmmol L−1 range when the NaCl concentration was low. Na content in cotton leaves generally increased as NaCl concentration in irrigation water increased. However, the excess Mn concentration in irrigation water inhibited the absorption of Na. The ratios of K/Na and Ca/Na in the cotton plant generally decreased as NaCl concentration in irrigation water increased. This led to lower tolerance of cotton plants to NaCl stress. The antagonistic characteristics between NaCl and specific trace elements for cotton growth and yield indicated that the micronutrients in saline water can alleviate salt damage. This suggests that using saline water for irrigation carefully may produce adequate cotton yield with lower quality water while minimizing soil salinization.
Lowland Rice Nutrient Responses for the Guinea and Sudan Savannas of Nigeria
Authors: Daudu Christogonus K. , Ugbaje Enemona M. , Oyinlola Eunice Y. , Tarfa Bitrus D. , Yakubu Adamu A. , Amapu Ishaku Y. , Wortmann Charles S.
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Lowland irrigated rice is increasing in importance in West Africa.

The irrigated lowland rice response to N was curvilinear to plateau.

Irrigated lowland rice was inconsistently affected by applied P.

A profitable rice response to K, Mg, S, Zn and B is not likely.

Yield response of irrigated lowland rice (Oryza sativaL.) to nutrient application was determined to improve the information base for fertilizer use in the Sudan and Southern Guinea Savannas of Nigeria. Economically optimal rates (EOR) and agronomic efficiency (AE) were determined. Five N levels and four levels each P, K, and Zn were evaluated with two varieties at two locations. Nitrogen effects varied by variety and location but mean paddy yield with 0 kg ha−1N was 3.4 Mg ha−1and was increased by 1.3 Mg ha−1with 40 kg ha−1N. The mean EOR of N with fertilizer use cost to paddy price ratios (CP) of 2 to 6 were 56 to 38 kg ha−1N, respectively. Yield increases with P, K and Zn application were infrequent. Paddy yield was increased in one of four cases with up to 1.5 kg ha−1Zn. There were no paddy yield increases but some decreases with application of Mg‐S‐B in addition to N‐P‐K‐Zn. The overall AE of N at EOR with a CP of 4 was 25.3 kg kg−1. The profit potential of N application was greater for Faro 44 compared with Faro 52 at both locations. Financially constrained farmers who opt to apply N at 50 compared with 100% EOR when CP was 4 can expect 16% less yield increase but 67% higher AE and value to cost ratio. Application of fertilizer N, maybe with P at Kadawa, can be highly profitable for irrigated lowland rice in these agro‐ecological zones.
Agronomic and Economic Effects of Two Enhanced‐Efficiency Urea Fertilizer Technologies on Southern Great Plains Winter Wheat
Authors: Adams Curtis B. , Thapa Santanu B. , Fan Yubing , Park Seong
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Stabilized urea improved wheat grain yield and protein in the Southern Plains.

Stabilized urea at a higher rate brought higher net profits than untreated urea at all price points.

A safe seed‐placed rate for polymer‐coated urea in regional wheat is lower than 30 kg N ha–1.

No benefit was observed in splitting nitrogen application in this study.

In no‐till wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cropping systems of the US Southern Great Plains, urea fertilizer is commonly surface broadcast and producers rely on unpredictable precipitation in dryland conditions for incorporation into the soil. Several enhanced‐efficiency fertilizer technologies are designed to reduce N loss in this scenario, though there are not published reports on evaluations of these in regional wheat systems. Here we report on an evaluation of two enhanced‐efficiency fertilizer technologies, polymer‐coated urea (PCU) and urease/nitrification inhibitor‐stabilized urea (SU), which were compared to untreated urea at different application rates (0, 31.5, and 70 kg N ha−1) and timings (at‐planting and split) in two locations differing in soil type (clay loam and loamy fine sand). The fertilizer was broadcast, except for PCU, which was drilled in‐row. The greatest yield was observed with a high at‐planting rate of SU, where yield was 26% greater than with untreated urea and 34% greater than with no fertilizer. Yield improvement with SU was associated with greater grain N uptake efficiency and protein content. The high SU rate brought higher net profits than untreated urea at all price points analyzed and surpassed the no‐fertilizer control as price increased. As might be expected with seed placement, there was substantial crop damage at the high rate of PCU, but even minor damage at the lower rate. The results suggest that a safe seed‐placed rate for PCU in wheat in this environment is somewhat lower than 30 kg N ha−1. No benefit was observed in splitting the N application.
Spring wheat response to simulated glyphosate drift
Authors: Wiersma J.J. , Durgan B.R.
Published: April 2018

The nearly ubiquitous use of glyphosate‐resistant soybean, corn, sugar beet, and/or canola cultivars in the Northern Great Plains can result in off‐target movement to sensitive crops like spring wheat. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of simulated glyphosate drift at a concentration of 0.07 lb acid equivalent/acre on spring wheat crop injury, crop residue, and yield. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/554.
A Global Meta‐Analysis of Grazing Impacts on Soil Health Indicators
Authors: Byrnes Ryan C. , Eastburn Danny J. , Tate Kenneth W. , Roche Leslie M.
Published: April 2018

Grazing lands support the livelihoods of millions of people across nearly one‐half of the globe. Soils are the backbone of stability and resilience in these systems. To determine livestock grazing impacts on soil health, we conducted a global meta‐analysis of soil organic carbon (SOC), total N, C/N ratio, and bulk density responses to grazing strategies (continuous, rotational, and no grazing) and intensities (heavy, moderate, and light grazing) from 64 studies around the world. Across all studies and grazing intensities, continuous grazing significantly reduced SOC, C/N, and total N compared with no grazing. Soil compaction (i.e., increased bulk density) was greater under both continuous and rotational grazing compared with no grazing; however, rotational grazing had lower bulk density than continuous grazing. Rotational grazing had greater SOC than continuous grazing and was not different from no grazing. The positive responses of SOC to rotational grazing could create climate change mitigation opportunities. Grazing strategy comparisons were minimally conditioned by aridity class (i.e., arid, subhumid, and humid); however, complete observations were notably limited or missing for many rotational grazing comparisons. For continuous and no grazing strategy comparisons, we found that grazing management can significantly influence soil function and health outcomes; however, site‐specific environmental factors play important moderating roles. Greater coordination across regional, national, and global efforts, as well as consistent guidelines for soil health evaluation, would help overcome these knowledge gaps and vastly improve our collective understanding of grazing impacts on soil health, providing greater management and policy impacts.

Core Ideas

Grazing increases soil compaction relative to no grazing.

Rotation improves soil bulk density and organic carbon over continuous grazing.

Reduced grazing intensity improves soil bulk density and organic carbon.

Site‐specific environmental factors play important moderating roles.

Rotational grazing strategies could create climate change mitigation opportunities.
Combining Ability Analysis of RILs Developed from a YML32 × Q11 Cross for Grain Yield and Resistance to Gray Leaf Spot
Authors: Li Z. W. , Liu L. , Zhang Y. D. , Jeffers D. P. , Kang M. S. , Fan X. M.
Published: April 2018

The development of resistant lines and hybrids is an economical way to control disease and improve yield stability. The objectives of this study were (i) to investigate if differences in resistance to gray leaf spot (GLS, caused by Cercospora zeina) exist among recombinant inbred lines (RILs) with and without the quantitative trait locus encompassing the resistance‐carrying GZ204/IDP5 DNA segment (RDNAS) and to determine its effect on grain yield, and (ii) to determine general combining ability and specific combining ability effects for grain yield and GLS scores (GLSS). Four RILs (three with RDNAS [RL1_1, RL1_2, and RL2_1] and one without RDNAS [RL2_2]) were developed via marker‐assisted selection from a cross between YML32 and Q11—an elite line susceptible to GLS. The four RILs and the susceptible parent (Q11) were crossed as testers with 13 maize (Zea mays L.) lines of known heterotic groups (Suwan1, Reid, and non‐Reid). The three RDNAS‐carrying RILs showed reduced GLSS and improved grain yield stability, but grain yield itself was not significantly increased. These three RILs also showed negative general combining ability effects for GLSS. RL2_1 was the best line for improving GLS resistance. The RILs possessing the RDNAS in crosses with lines from the Suwan1 heterotic group had lower GLSS than those from Reid and non‐Reid heterotic groups, suggesting that resistance genes or quantitative trait loci, in addition to RDNAS, might be present in Suwan1.
Phylogenetic Analysis and Expression Profiles of Starch Phosphorylase Family Genes in Cassava under Diverse Environments
Authors: Pei Jinli , Zhang Shengkui , Xia Zhiqiang , Chen Xin , Liu Chen , Zhou Xincheng , Ma Pingan , Wang Wenquan
Published: April 2018

Starch phosphorylase (Pho), especially the plastidial type, plays an important role in starch biosynthesis. The availability of a complete cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) genome database allowed the identification of five Pho family members, which could be grouped into the plastidial type (MePho1a, MePho1b, and MePho1c) and cytosolic type (MePho2 and MePho3) on the basis of phylogenetic analysis. Spatial gene expression analysis of various cassava tissues revealed that plastidial MePho1b had the highest transcriptional activity in root stele, whereas the cytosolic MePho2 was expressed with higher levels in leaves and petiole. Spatial expression analysis showed that MePho1b was strongly expressed in the tuber during root development process, especially at 70 and 180 d after planting, whereas MePho1a had highest expression in leaves at 180 d after planting. Expression of MePho1b and MePho2 could be induced by salt, drought, exogenous abscisic acid, methyl jasmonate, and salicylic acid signal in the leaves of abiotic stress‐treated plantlets. In addition, the expression profiles of MePho1b and starch branching enzyme gene member MeSBE2.2 exhibited significant correlation under diverse stress environments, indicating that they may have coordinated functions.
Extraction, purification, antioxidant properties and stability conditions of phytomelanin pigment on the sunflower seeds
Authors: KELES Yuksel , Özdemir Önder
Published: April 2018

Phytomelanin
pigment, a rare secondary matabolite in plants, has potential for use in the
cosmetic and food sectors. This pigment has antioxidant, antimicrobial and
ultraviolet (UV) light absorbing properties, so it can be used as natural food
coloring and in the field of cosmetics. In this study, extraction,
purification, antioxidant properties and stability conditions of phytomelanin
pigment found in sunflower (Helianthus
annuus L.) seed coat were investigated. NaOH, KOH and NH4OH
solutions were tested at different concentrations for extraction. It has been
determined that the most suitable solvent for extraction is 0.3 M NaOH. The
purification process involves precipitation with HCl followed by washing with
ethyl alcohol, ethyl acetate and acetone. The findings show that the proportion
of phytomelanin in sunflower seeds is 1.95% and that the antioxidant capacity
is 9.8% ascorbic acid equivalent. The purity degree of the purified
phytomelanin pigment and that of the synthetic phytomelanin pigment were
compared by thin layer chromatography (TLC). Chromatography findings have shown
that the purification performance is quite high. It was determined that the
pigment was slowly deteriorated in temperature and light, and was not affected
by air. Consequently, sunflower seed coat can be a convenient and economical
source of producing pure phytomelanin for industrial use.
Representaciones sociales acerca de las violencias sexuales que construyen los estudiantes y docentes de la Universidad Católica Luis Amigó
Authors: Vahos Henao Yuliana Andrea , Garcés Jairo David , González Yesmi Lorena , Zapata Bedoya Omaira
Published: April 2018

Esta investigación se orienta al estudio de las representaciones de las violencias sexuales que construyen los estudiantes y docentes de la Universidad Católica Luis Amigó (Funlam). La investigación se realizó bajo un enfoque cualitativo con diseño hermenéutico y se utilizaron las técnicas de entrevista y grupo focal. A partir de la sistematización de la información surgieron cuatro categorías de análisis: representaciones sobre la violencia sexual, representaciones sobre el agresor, representaciones sobre la víctima y representaciones sobre el contexto. Se concluyó que las representaciones sociales sobre las violencias sexuales sitúan al hombre como agresor y a la mujer como víctima, que las violencias sexuales a veces son naturalizadas e invisibilizadas y que se mueven entre lo íntimo y lo público.
Redes sociales de apoyo, el uso de las tic’s y su incidencia en la dinámica familiar
Authors: Bermúdez Pino Luisa Fernanda , Celis Muñoz Leidy Gizell , Mesa Parra Daniela , Montagut Ortiz Adiel , Montoya Giraldo Diana Lorena , Ortiz Ortiz Gloria Patricia , Pérez Suárez Eliana Milena
Published: April 2018

Este artículo se propone relacionar el uso de las redes sociales de apoyo y las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación en la dinámica familiar de tres familias en Medellín. Se utilizó el enfoque cualitativo y un desarrollo metodológico basado en la fenomenología y la hermenéutica. Los resultados hablan del sentido de la comunicación participativa en la dinámica familiar, redes sociales de apoyo: entre el acompañamiento, la gratitud y la participación social, y tecnologías de la información y la comunicación: entre la proximidad y la distancia. Se concluye que la relación que existe entre las redes sociales de apoyo y el uso de las TIC en la dinámica familiar de los entrevistados consiste en lograr, por medio de estas tecnologías, que las familias puedan comunicarse tanto con su grupo familiar, como con las redes sociales de apoyo con las que cuentan; además, manifiestan que el uso de las TIC puede acercar, pero a la vez alejar.
Regulation of deep groundwater based on MODFLOW in the water intake area of the South-to-North Water Transfer Project in Tianjin, China
Authors: Deng Xiyuan , Li Fawen , Zhao Yong , Li Shaofei
Published: April 2018

With the development of economy and society, deep groundwater exploitation has intensified, even to the point of over-exploitation, resulting in multiple geological disasters. Thus, it is essential to regulate the deep groundwater table to a reasonable range. This paper selected the water intake area of the South-to-North Water Transfer Project in Tianjin as a case study. First, the groundwater flow and land subsidence model with MODFLOW-2005 and SUB Package were constructed. Second, the regulation schemes were designed based on the corresponding regulation principles. Lastly, the established groundwater model was adopted to forecast and simulate deep water table and land subsidence under different exploitation scenarios, and regulation effects were analyzed from the viewpoints of exploitation total amount, exploitation distribution, and exploited horizon. The results showed that groundwater tables of different layers and land subsidence were effectively controlled and improved under the three exploitation schemes for different planning level years. The exploitation total amount of groundwater, exploitation distribution, and exploited horizon had a direct impact on water table and land subsidence. From the perspective of regulating deep groundwater, all three schemes could achieve this goal, hence the three schemes were reasonable and feasible. The results are of great significance for rational utilization of deep groundwater.
Curcumin: A Natural Pan-HDAC Inhibitor in Cancer
Authors: Soflaei Sara Saffar , Momtazi-Borojeni Amir Abbas , Majeed Muhammed , Derosa Giuseppe , Maffioli Pamela , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2018

Background:

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are a group of histone modification enzymes with pivotal
role in disease pathogenesis especially in cancer development. Increased activity of certain types of HDACs and
positive effects of HDAC inhibition has been shown in several types of cancers. Furthermore, few HDAC inhibitors
have been approved by the FDA for cancer treatment, and this has generated interest in finding new HDAC
inhibitors as potential anti-cancer agents. Curcumin, a natural polyphenol extracted from turmeric, is a safe and
bioactive phytochemical with a wide range of molecular targets and pharmacological activities including promising
anti-cancer properties.

Methods:

A systematic literature search using appropriate keywords was made to identify articles reporting the
modulatory effect of curcumin on HDACs in different types of cancer in vitro and in vivo.

Results:

HDACs have emerged as novel targets of curcumin that their modulation may contribute to the putative
anti-cancer effects of curcumin. Curcumin inhibits HDAC activity, and down-regulates the expression of HDAC
types 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 11 in different cancer cell lines and mice, while the activity and expression of HDAC2
have been reported to be up-regulated by curcumin in COPD and heart failure models.

Conclusion:

Available in vitro and in vivo data are encouraging and in favor of the HDAC inhibitory activity of
curcumin but clinical evidence on the efficacy of curcumin as an adjunct treatment in cancer patients is lacking.
Polyphenols, Antioxidants and the Sympathetic Nervous System
Authors: Bruno Rosa Maria , Ghiadoni Lorenzo
Published: April 2018

Background:

A high dietary intake of polyphenols has been associated with a reduced cardiovascular
mortality, due to their antioxidant properties. However, growing evidence suggests that counteracting oxidative
stress in cardiovascular disease might also reduce sympathetic nervous system overactivity.

Methods:

This article reviews the most commonly used techniques to measure sympathetic activity in humans;
the role of sympathetic activation in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases; current evidence demonstrating
that oxidative stress is involved in the regulation of sympathetic activity and how antioxidants and polyphenols
might counteract sympathetic overactivity, particularly focusing on preliminary data from human studies.

Results:

The main mechanisms by which polyphenols are cardioprotective are related to the improvement of
vascular function and their anti-atherogenic effect. Furthermore, a blood pressure-lowering effect was consistently
demonstrated in randomized controlled trials in humans, when the effect of flavonoid-rich foods, such as
tea and chocolate, was tested. More recent studies suggest that inhibition of sympathetic overactivity might be
one of the mechanisms by which these substances exert their cardioprotective effects. Indeed, an increased adrenergic
traffic to the vasculature is a major mechanism of disease in a number of cardiovascular and extra-cardiac
diseases, including hypertension, obesity, metabolic syndrome and heart failure. A considerable body of evidence,
mostly from experimental studies, support the hypothesis that reactive oxygen species might exert sympathoexcitatory
effects both at the central and at the peripheral level. Accordingly, supplementation with antioxidants
might reduce adrenergic overdrive to the vasculature and blunt cardiovascular reactivity to stress.

Conclusions:

While supplementation with “classical” antioxidants such as ROS-scavengers has many limitations,
increasing the intake of polyphenol-rich foods seems to be a promising novel therapeutic strategy to reduce the
deleterious effects of increased adrenergic tone, particularly in essential hypertension.
Ellagic Acid: A Logical Lead for Drug Development?
Authors: Shakeri Abolfazl , Zirak Mohammad Reza , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2018

Background:

Naturally occurring polyphenols are the subject of increasing attention due to their potent
antioxidant activity and their marked effects on the prevention of various oxidative stress-associated diseases
such as cancer. Ellagic acid (EA) is an herbal polyphenol that is structurally a condensed dimer of gallic acid.

Methods:

This review aims to provide a comprehensive and updated overview on the biological activities of EA
and potential therapeutic applications.

Results:

EA is found in fruits and nuts, either in the combined form with hexahydroxydiphenic acid or in the
bound form (ellagitannins). EA exhibits many biological properties such as antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anticancer
and apoptosis-inducing activities. These biological and pharmacological properties are relevant to the treatment of
several human diseases.

Conclusion:

Owing to its multiple mechanisms of action, EA represents a potential therapeutic agent against
human diseases particularly cancer.
Polyphenols Effect on Circulating Lipids and Lipoproteins: From Biochemistry to Clinical Evidence
Authors: Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Colletti Alessandro
Published: April 2018

Background:

Polyphenols are a family of natural antioxidants that in recent years have been studied
and tested for their potential benefits towards cardiovascular diseases.

Objective:

The aim of this review is to focus the attention on the presumed lipid-lowering and atheroprotective
effects of polyphenols, administered either as individual molecules (nutritional supplements) and as functional
foods, on the basis of the evidence coming from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and their meta-analyses.

Method:

A search strategy was conducted to identify studies in PubMed (January 1980 to September 2016); in
particular, we have included human clinical trials, reviews and meta-analyses when they offered suitable insights
and elucidations regarding the action of polyphenols on lipid profile and cardiovascular disease risk.

Results:

Literature data on polyphenols suggest that they potentially could exert an effect on lipid profile, especially
by reducing the oxidation of LDL-C. Polyphenols from cocoa, grape, green tea, berries and soy are the ones
that have shown more clinically relevant effect. However, quantitative data on cholesterol reduction are still unclear
and often conflicting.

Conclusion:

Polyphenols, if taken in adequate dosages, can exert in some cases a positive effect on the prevention
of cardiovascular risk and lipid oxidation, despite an unclear effect on lipid levels.
Polyphenols: Novel Signaling Pathways
Authors: Ricketts Marie-Louise , Ferguson Bradley S.
Published: April 2018

Background:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is currently the leading cause of death globally. The
metabolic syndrome (MetS), a clustering of risk factors including hypertension, hyperglycemia, elevated low-density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and increased visceral adiposity, is a
significant risk factor for the development of CVD. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), often referred to
as the hepatic manifestation of MetS, is a constellation of progressive liver disorders closely linked to obesity,
diabetes, and insulin resistance. NAFLD initially presents as relatively benign, non-progressive hepatic steatosis,
but it may, in certain individuals, progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular
carcinoma. Currently, there are no validated treatments for NAFLD. Polyphenols are important bioactive dietary
compounds and may represent a natural complementary and integrative therapy for the treatment of CVDassociated
risk factors, including elevated serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as NAFLD. Understanding
their molecular mechanisms of action is important in the design of future human intervention studies.

Methods:

Several studies utilizing in vitro and in vivo models have helped to identify underlying molecular
mechanisms of action of polyphenols.

Results:

This review will highlight recent advances regarding the molecular actions of dietary procyanidins, with
a special focus on those originating from procyanidin-rich grape seed extracts, with a focus on the signaling
pathways utilized to exert beneficial metabolic effects.

Conclusion:

Modulation of nuclear receptor activity and histone deacetylase inhibition has been identified as
underlying mechanisms contributing to procyanidin-mediated amelioration of dyslipidemia and steatosis.
Paranormal Health Beliefs: Relations Between Social Dominance Orientation and Mental Illness
Authors: Anna Rosa Donizzetti
Published: April 2018

Background:

Illusory beliefs are false beliefs that fulfill the function of creating a “filter” through which reality acquires order and meaning. Even though many studies have been conducted on this topic, there have been few investigations into the role illusory beliefs play, as specifically related to health concerns.

Objective:

The current research takes up the objective of investigating the relationships between paranormal health beliefs (with specific reference to pseudo-scientific beliefs of a bio-medical nature), social dominance orientation, god-centered health locus of control, and coping by turning to religion, as well as their predictive role with respect to mental illness.

Methods:

432 adults (76.8% women) were contacted, with a median age of 24.9 years (DS=11.6). A self-report questionnaire, composed of various instruments, was administered to the participants. The questionnaire consisted of the following instruments:Paranormal Health Beliefs Scale, Social Dominance Orientation, Health Locus of Control Scale, Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced and General Health Questionnaire.Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed, along with structural equations modeling.

Results:

Based on the analyses conducted, it emerged that social dominance orientation and the god-centered health locus of control are antecedents for pseudo-scientific beliefs of a bio-medical nature, which, in turn, affect coping by turning to religion. Coping by turning to religion predicts perceived illness.

Conclusions:

These results provide a useful direction for understanding the factors that influence the health decisions of individuals and, therefore, must be taken into consideration even in the most diverse health contexts.
Phase Transitions in Nanocomposites Obtained by Introducing KNO3 into the Pores of Nanosized Al2O3 Films
Authors: Milinskiy Alexey Y. , Baryshnikov Sergey V.
Published: April 2018

Introduction:

Comparative studies of phase transitions in nanocomposites on the base of
KNO3 and Al2O3 films with pores of 240 and 45 nm were carried out.

Experiment:

The temperature dependences of the linear dielectric constant and the amplitude of the
third harmonic were measured. The measurements were carried out in the heating and cooling regime
in the range from room temperature to 463 K. Anomalies, corresponding to structural phase
transitions, were observed.

Results & Conclusion:

A considerable expansion of the temperature range of the potassium nitrate
ferroelectric phase III was observed upon cooling, which increased with decreasing pore size of the
Al2O3 films. The structural transition upon heating from phase II to phase I for nanocomposites
with a pore size of 45 nm shifted relative to the transition in bulk KNO3 by 2 K toward high temperatures,
whereas the temperature change for the sample in the Al2O3 film with pores of 240 nm
did not occur.
Source Analysis of Nitrate Nitrogen in Groundwater Based on Different Modes of Land use
Authors: Liu Ze-Jun , Wu Yan , Liang Qiyang , Xia Jiangtao , Li Jian , Huang Yong
Published: April 2018

Background:

The study area is located in the Hebei province Luanxian section along the
Luanhe River. The right of Luanhe River is arranged with 3 monitoring sections and is laid with 5
wells in the A-A section and B-B section and 1 well on the floodplain (inside the dike), the distance
from the river level is about 10m. The distance between the 4 wells outside the dike is 20m, 50m,
200m and 1500m respectively. 2 wells are arranged on the C-C section, so there are 13 observation
wells in the study area. 3# wells and 11# wells have used existing monitoring wells, so 11 wells have
been set up actually. The monitoring wells are designed to monitor groundwater level, groundwater
quality and isotope analysis.

Methods:

In the upstream of Luanhe’s A-A section of the No. 4 well near the edge of the woods and
downstream of the B-B section of the No. 8 well near the edge of farmland (wheat), each point of soil
is sampled to determine the content of nitrate nitrogen and 15N isotope ratio in soil profile. The depth
of soil is sampled from surface to groundwater level, the total depth is about 2.5m. Taking about 1kg
soil samples at 20cm every time from the ground surface and collect and seal in plastic bags and number.
The sampling time was November 2015, March 2016, May 2016 and July 2016, taking 4 times.

Results:

The analysis showed that higher nitrate content in soil is within 0-60cm, and is same as the
depth of fertilizing the crops (including animal manure), so when estimating the proportion of
groundwater in nitrate, nitrate content in 0-60cm is assumed as the initial value; which is close to the
underground water level in the soil and is regarded as the final value of 60cm, that is, the final value of
nitrate into the groundwater, which can estimate the soil nitrate into groundwater ratio.

Conclusion:

The sources of nitrate in groundwater are complex and related to many factors, such as
river water, soil and so on. According to the content of nitrogen and oxygen isotopes, it determines the
main source of nitrate nitrogen:soil and Luanhe River. The results showed that the ratio of nitrate to
groundwater in the forest soil was 20%~80.8%, and the average value was 56.3%. The proportion of
nitrate in the soil in the wheat field was 6.8%~98.2%, with an average value of 48.3%. Nitrate nitrogen
from water in proportion of large changes with the seasons, the upper reaches of the Luanhe River
(near No. 2 wells) for 0~19.6%; the Luanhe River (near No. 7 wells) for 0~31.5%.
Enhanced Methane Yield by Codigestion of Sewage Sludge with Microalgae and Catering Waste Leachate
Authors: Siddique Md. Nurul Islam , Wahid Zularisam Bin Abdul
Published: April 2018

The codigestion of different wastes is a promising concept to improve methane generation during anaerobic processes. However, the anaerobic codigestion of catering waste leachate with algal biomass and sewage sludge has not been studied to date. The present study investigated methane generation by the anaerobic codigestion of different mixtures of catering waste leachate, microalgal biomass, and sewage sludge. Codigestion of waste mixture containing equal ratios of three substrates had 39.31% higher methane yield than anaerobic digestion of raw sludge. This was possibly because of a proliferation of methanogens during the codigestion period, induced by multiphase digestion of different wastes with different degrees of digestibility. Therefore, codigestion of catering waste leachate, microalgal biomass, and sewage sludge appears to be an efficient technology for energy conversion from waste resources. The scientific application of this codigestion technology with these three substrates may play a role in solving important environmental issues of waste management.
Utilization of vegetable fibers for production of reinforced cementitious materials
Authors: Correia Viviane Costa , Santos Sergio Francisco , Savastano Jr Holmer , John Vanderley Moacyr
Published: April 2018

Vegetable fibers produced from agroindustrial resources in the macro, micro and nanometric scales have been used as reinforcement in cementitious materials. The cellulosic pulp, besides being used as the reinforcing element, is also the processing fiber that is responsible for the filtration system in the Hatcheck method. On the other hand, the nanofibrillated cellulose has the advantage of having good mechanical performance and high specific surface, which contributes to improve the adhesion between fiber and matrix. In the hybrid reinforcement, with micro and nanofibers, the cellulose performs bonding elements with the matrix and acts as stress transfer bridges in the micro and nano-cracking network with the corresponding strengthening and toughening of the cementitious composite. Some strategies are studied to mitigate the degradation of the vegetable fibers used in cost-effective and non-conventional fiber cement, as well as to reach a sustainable fiber cement production. As a practical example, the accelerated carbonation curing at early age is a developing technology to increase the durability of composite materials: it decreases porosity, promotes a higher density in the interface generating a good fiber–matrix adhesion and a better mechanical behavior. Thus, the vegetable fibers are potentially applicable to produce high mechanical performance and sustainable cementitious materials for use in the Civil Construction.
The General Data Protection Regulation: an overview of the penalties’ provisions from a Portuguese standpoint
Authors: Freitas Pedro Miguel
Published: April 2018

The aim of this paper is to analyse the punitive regime foreseen in the Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 April 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data (GDPR). The administrative fines’ regime found in Article 83 of the GDPR and some of the questions it arises will be explored. We conclude that the Member States should adopt a critical stance when adapting their national legislation to the norms of the GDPR. The fundamental principles enshrined in national constitutions and supranational legal texts must be closely analysed and observed since the GDPR introduces a mandatory sanctions framework.