bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tubal Hydatidiform Mole: A Case Report
Authors: Begum Ferdousi , Kasem Setara , Begum Shahnaz , Zannat Amina , Rahman Farhana , Khan Rafida Moslemin , Muhsin AUM
Published: October 2017

The incidence of ectopic pregnancy is 20 per 1,000 pregnancies. Hydatidiform mole occurs in 1 per 1,000 pregnancies. Thus, the incidence of the ectopic molar gestation is very rare. We report a case of tubal molar pregnancy diagnosed at the systematic histology examination of an ectopic pregnancy. A 22 years old second gravida presented with five weeks amenorrhea, severe lower abdominal pain and mild vaginal bleeding for one day; and excessive sweating and restlessness for 6 hours. On clinical examination, she had severe anaemia, pulse was 120 per minute and blood pressure was 80/60 mm hg. The gynecological examination was difficult because of lower abdominal pain and tenderness. She was diagnosed as a case of ruptured tubal pregnancy with shock. Pelvic ultrasound revealed an irregular echogenic mass in the left adnexa. She was resuscitated and emergency laparotomy was done: it revealed a left-sided ruptured ampullary ectopic pregnancy. Left salpingectomy was performed. The systematic histologic test identified an ectopic molar pregnancy. The patient was followed with weekly quantitative B-hCG titers until three successive B-hCG levels were negative. It is important that clinicians routinely send for histological examination of tubal specimens in ectopic pregnancy in order to diagnose cases of ectopic molar gestations early and provide appropriate post treatment follow up.Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(2) : 104-106
Obstacle Avoidance with Potential Field Applied to a Rendezvous Maneuver
Authors: Bloise Nicoletta , Capello Elisa , Dentis Matteo , Punta Elisabetta
Published: October 2017

This paper outlines a method based on the theory of artificial potential fields combined with sliding mode techniques for spacecraft maneuvers in the presence of obstacles. Guidance and control algorithms are validated with a six degree-of-freed (dof) omorbital simulator. The idea of this paper is to provide computationally efficient algorithms for real time applications, in which the combination of Artificial potential field (APF) and sliding mode control shows the ability of plan trajectories, even in the presence of external disturbances and model uncertainties. A reduced frequency of the proposed controllers and a pulse width modulation (PWM) of the thrusters are considered to verify the performance of the system. The computational performance of APF as a guidance algorithm is discussed and the algorithms are verified by simulations of a complete rendezvous maneuver. The proposed algorithm appears suitable for the autonomous, real-time control of complex maneuvers with a minimum on-board computational effort.
Time-Varying Characteristics of Granite Microstructures after Cyclic Dynamic Disturbance Using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Liu Chuanju , Deng Hongwei , Wang Yuan , Lin Yun , Zhao Huatao
Published: October 2017

To investigate the variation in the characteristics of rock microstructure after cyclic dynamic disturbances, a split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) was used to carry out cyclic dynamic impact tests on granite, and the P-wave velocity was used as the characteristic parameter representing the microstructural change. Using the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) technique, the porosity and the T2 distribution of rock samples were obtained. The results show that, after the cyclic dynamic disturbance, the P-wave velocity within the rock specimen decreases but rebounds with time. At the elastic phase, when the axial loading increases, the P-wave velocity declines. The T2 limit is shortened, and the cyclic dynamic disturbance process promotes the formation of small pores and decreases the size and quantity of large pores. After the cyclic dynamic disturbance, the porosity of the rock samples was reduced.
LCC Resonant Multilevel Converter for X-ray Applications
Authors: Pernía A. , Prieto Miguel , Villegas Pedro , Díaz Juan , Martín-Ramos Juan
Published: October 2017

Medical X-ray appliances use high-voltage power supplies that must be able to work with very different energy requirements. Two techniques can be distinguished in X-ray medical imaging: fluoroscopy and radioscopy. The former involves low power radiation with a long exposure time, while radioscopy requires large power during short radiographic exposure times. Since the converter has to be designed by taking into account the maximum power specification, it will exhibit a poor efficiency when operating at low power levels. Such a problem can be solved by using a new multilevel LCC topology. This topology is based on a classical series-parallel resonant topology, but includes an additional low-voltage auxiliary transformer whose function depends on the X-ray technique considered. When radioscopy operation is selected, the transformer will allow the power to be shared between two full-bridges. If fluoroscopy mode is activated, the auxiliary full bridge is disconnected and the magnetizing inductance of the auxiliary transformer is used to increase the resonant inductor in order to reduce the resonant currents, thus improving the efficiency of the converter.
Determination of Klinkenberg Permeability Conditioned to Pore-Throat Structures in Tight Formations
Authors: Liu Guangfeng , Bai Yaoxing , Fan Zhaoqi , Gu Daihong
Published: October 2017

This paper has developed a pragmatic technique to efficiently and accurately determine the Klinkenberg permeability for tight formations with different pore-throat structures. Firstly, the authors use steady-state experiments to measure the Klinkenberg permeability of 56 tight core samples under different mean pore pressures and confining pressures. Secondly, pressure-controlled mercury injection (PMI) experiments and thin-section analyses are conducted to differentiate pore-throat structures. After considering capillary pressure curve, pore types, throat size, particle composition, and grain size, the pore-throat structure in the target tight formation was classified into three types: a good sorting and micro-fine throat (GSMFT) type, a moderate sorting and micro-fine throat (MSMFT) type, and a bad sorting and micro throat (BSMT) type. This study found that a linear relationship exists between the Klinkenberg permeability and measured gas permeability for all three types of pore-throat structures. Subsequently, three empirical equations are proposed, based on 50 core samples of data, to estimate the Klinkenberg permeability by using the measured gas permeability and mean pore pressure for each type of pore-throat structure. In addition, the proposed empirical equations can generate accurate estimates of the Klinkenberg permeability with a relative error of less than 5% in comparison to its measured value. The application of the proposed empirical equations to the remaining six core samples has demonstrated that it is necessary to use an appropriate equation to determine the Klinkenberg permeability of a specific type of pore-throat structure. Consequently, the newly developed technique is proven to be qualified for accurately determining the Klinkenberg permeability of tight formations in a timely manner.
High Voltage Overhead Power Line Routing under an Objective Observability Criterion
Authors: Fernandez-Jimenez L. , Mendoza-Villena Montserrat , Garcia-Garrido Eduardo , Lara-Santillan Pedro , Zorzano-Santamaria Pedro , Zorzano-Alba Enrique , Falces Alberto
Published: October 2017

The construction of new high voltage overhead power lines (HVOPLs) has become a controversial issue for electricity companies due to social opposition. Citizens are concerned about how these power lines may have an impact on their lives, basically caused by their effects on health and safety. Visual impact is one of the most easily perceived. Although there are several published works that deal with the assessment of the visual impact produced by HVOPLs, no methodology has been proposed to assess this impact from an objective perspective. This work presents an original methodology which helps to identify the optimal routes for a new HVOPL under an objective observability criterion, enabling the selection of those with the lowest visibility in a zone. The application of the proposed methodology achieves a set of routes that links new HVOPL origin and destination points creating a corridor which includes all possible routes with an observability of its towers under a threshold limit. This methodology is illustrated by a real-life use corresponding to the selection of the route with least observability for a new power line in La Rioja (Spain). The results obtained may help to achieve a consensus between key stakeholders since it is focused on the specific issues of the planned HVOPL and its observability from an objective perspective.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Total Factor Energy Efficiency: A Cross-Region Analysis in China
Authors: Lin Jianting , Xu Changxin
Published: October 2017

Environmental regulations are the key measure by which governments achieve sustainable environmental and economic development. This study aimed to determine the direct and indirect impacts of environmental regulations on total factor energy efficiency of regions in China. Since regions have different levels of economic development and resource endowment, we used the slacks-based measure (SBM)-undesirable model to calculate total factor energy efficiency considering regional technology heterogeneity and examined the regional impacts of environmental regulation on this efficiency using the Tobit regression model. A positive direct impact was generated in the eastern region of China by the forced mechanism, which forced enterprises to reduce fossil fuel energy demand and increase clean energy consumption; whereas a negative direct impact was generated in the middle and western regions owing to the green paradox, which is the observation that expected stringent environmental regulation prompts energy owners to accelerate resource extraction. Moreover, indirect impacts through technological progress and foreign direct investment were taken into account in the model, and the results show that the indirect impacts vary across regions. A logical response to these findings would be to develop different policies for different regions.
Natural Contamination and Surface Flashover on Silicone Rubber Surface under Haze–Fog Environment
Authors: Ren Ang , Liu Hongshun , Wei Jianchun , Li Qingquan
Published: October 2017

Anti-pollution flashover of insulator is important for power systems. In recent years, haze-fog weather occurs frequently, which makes discharge occurs easily on the insulator surface and accelerates insulation aging of insulator. In order to study the influence of haze-fog on the surface discharge of room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber, an artificial haze-fog lab was established. Based on four consecutive years of insulator contamination accumulation and atmospheric sampling in haze-fog environment, the contamination configuration appropriate for RTV-coated surface discharge test under simulation environment of haze-fog was put forward. ANSYS Maxwell was used to analyze the influence of room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber surface attachments on electric field distribution. The changes of droplet on the polluted room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber surface and the corresponding surface flashover voltage under alternating current (AC), direct current (DC) positive polar (+), and DC negative polar (−) power source were recorded by a high speed camera. The results are as follows: The main ion components from haze-fog atmospheric particles are NO3−, SO42−, NH4+, and Ca2+. In haze-fog environment, both the equivalent salt deposit density (ESDD) and non-soluble deposit density (NSDD) of insulators are higher than that under general environment. The amount of large particles on the AC transmission line is greater than that of the DC transmission line. The influence of DC polarity power source on the distribution of contamination particle size is not significant. After the deposition of haze-fog, the local conductivity of the room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber surface increased, which caused the flashover voltage reduce. Discharge is liable to occur at the triple junction point of droplet, air, and room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber surface. After the deformation or movement of droplets, a new triple junction point would be formed, which would seriously reduce the dielectric strength of room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber.
Assessment of Bearing Capacity and Stiffness in New Steel Sets Used for Roadway Support in Coal Mines
Authors: Yang Renshu , Li Qinghai , Li Qing , Zhu Xianlei
Published: October 2017

There is high demand for roadway support in coal mines for the swelling soft rocks. As high strength steel sets can be taken as an effective alternative to control large deformation in this type of rocks, based on an original set, three new sets, including a floor beam set, a roof and floor beams set, and a roof and floor beams and braces set, are proposed in this research. In order to examine the strengths of new sets, four scaled sets of one original set, and three new sets, have been manufactured and tested in loading experiments. Results indicated that three new sets all exhibited higher strength than the original set. In experiments, the roof beam in set plays a significant effect on top arch strengthening, while the floor beam plays significant effect on bottom arch strengthening. The maximum bearing capacity and stiffness of the top arch with roof beam are increased to 1.63 times and 3.06 times of those in the original set, and the maximum bearing capacity and stiffness of the bottom arch with floor beam are increased to 1.44 times and 3.55 times of those in original set. Based on the roof and floor beams, two more braces in the bottom arch also play a significant effect in bottom corners strengthening, but extra braces play little role in top arch strengthening. These new sets provide more choices for roadway support in swelling soft rocks.
Adsorption Properties of Hydrocarbons (n-Decane, Methyl Cyclohexane and Toluene) on Clay Minerals: An Experimental Study
Authors: Zhang Jie , Lu Shuangfang , Li Junqian , Zhang Pengfei , Xue Haitao , Zhao Xu , Xie Liujuan
Published: October 2017

Adsorption of hydrocarbons may significantly affect hydrocarbon migration in unconventional reservoirs. Clay minerals form the primary adsorbent surfaces for hydrocarbons adsorbed in mudstone/shale. To study the adsorption properties of hydrocarbons (n-decane (C10H22), methyl cyclohexane (C7H14) and toluene (C7H8)) on clay minerals (i.e., cookeite, ripidolite, kaolinite, illite, illite/smectite mixed-layer, Na-montmorillonite and Ca-montmorillonite), hydrocarbon vapor adsorption (HVA) tests were conducted at 298.15 K. The results showed that (i) the adsorption amounts of C10H22, C7H14 and C7H8 ranged from 0.45–1.03 mg/m2, 0.28–0.90 mg/m2 and 0.16–0.53 mg/m2, respectively; (ii) for cookeite, ripidolite and kaolinite, the adsorption capacity of C10H22 was less than C7H14, which was less than C7H8; (iii) for illite, Na-montmorillonite and Ca-montmorillonite, the adsorption capacity of C10H22 was greater than that of C7H8, and the adsorption capacity of C7H14 was the lowest; (iv) for an illite/smectite mixed-layer, C7H14 had the highest adsorption capacity, followed by C10H22, and C7H8 had the lowest capacity. Adsorption properties were correlated with the microscopic parameters of pores in clay minerals and with experimental pressure. Finally, the weighted average method was applied to evaluate the adsorption properties of C10H22, C7H14 and C7H8 on clay minerals in oil-bearing shale from the Shahejie Formation of Dongying Sag in the Bohai Bay Basin, China. For these samples, the adsorbed amounts of C7H14 ranged from 18.03–28.02 mg/g (mean 23.33 mg/g), which is larger than that of C10H22, which ranges from 15.40–21.72 mg/g (mean 18.82 mg/g). The adsorption capacity of C7H8 was slightly low, ranging from 10.51–14.60 mg/g (mean 12.78 mg/g).
Taxonomic and Functional Diversity of a Quercus pyrenaica Willd. Rhizospheric Microbiome in the Mediterranean Mountains
Authors: Cobo-Díaz José , Fernández-González Antonio , Villadas Pablo , Toro Nicolás , Tringe Susannah , Fernández-López Manuel
Published: October 2017

Altitude significantly affects vegetation growth and distribution, including the developmental stages of a forest. We used shotgun Illumina sequencing to analyze microbial community composition and functional potential in melojo-oak (Quercus pyrenaica Willd.) rhizospheric soil for three different development stages along an altitudinal gradient: (a) a low altitude, non-optimal site for forest maintenance; (b) an intermediate altitude, optimal site for a forest; and (c) a high altitude, expansion site with isolated trees but without a real forest canopy. We observed that, at each altitude, the same microbial taxa appear both in the taxonomic analysis of the whole metagenome and in the functional analysis of the methane, sulfur and nitrogen metabolisms. Although there were no major differences at the functional level, there were significant differences in the abundance of each taxon at the phylogenetic level between the rhizospheres of the forest (low and intermediate altitudes) and the expansion site. Proteobacteria and Actinobacteria were the most differentially abundant phyla in forest soils compared to the expansion site rhizosphere. Moreover, Verrucomicrobia, Bacteroidetes and Nitrospirae phyla were more highly represented in the non-forest rhizosphere. Our study suggests that rhizospheric microbial communities of the same tree species may be affected by development stage and forest canopy cover via changes in soil pH and the C/N ratio.
Effect of Early Pelvic Binder Use in the Emergency Management of Suspected Pelvic Trauma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hsu Sheng-Der , Chen Cheng-Jueng , Chou Yu-Ching , Wang Sheng-Hao , Chan De-Chuan
Published: October 2017

Background: We aimed to evaluate the effect of early pelvic binder use in the emergency management of suspected pelvic trauma, compared with the conventional stepwise approach. Methods: We enrolled trauma patients with initial stabilization using a pelvic binder when suspecting pelvic injury. The inclusion criteria were traumatic injury requiring a trauma team and at least one of the following: a loss of consciousness or a Glasgow coma score (GCS) of <13; systolic blood pressure of <90 mmHg; falling from ≥6 m; injury to multiple vital organs; and suspected pelvic injury. Various parameters, including gender, age, mechanism of injury, GCS, mortality, hospital stay, initial vital signs, revised trauma score, injury severity score, and outcome, were assessed and compared with historical controls. Results: A total of 204 patients with high-energy multiple-trauma from a single level I trauma center in North Taiwan were enrolled in the study from August 2013 to July 2014. The two group baseline patient characteristics were all collected and compared. The trauma patients with suspected pelvic fractures initially stabilized with a pelvic binder had shorter hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) stays. The study group achieved statistically significantly improved survival and lower mean blood transfusion volume and mortality rate, although they were more severe in the trauma score. Conclusions: We recommend prompt pelvic binder use for suspected pelvic injury before definitive imaging is available, as a cervical spine collar is used to protect the cervical spine from further injury prior to definitive identification and characterization of an injury.
Neuro-Coagulopathy: Blood Coagulation Factors in Central Nervous System Diseases
Authors: De Luca Ciro , Virtuoso Assunta , Maggio Nicola , Papa Michele
Published: October 2017

Blood coagulation factors and other proteins, with modulatory effects or modulated by the coagulation cascade have been reported to affect the pathophysiology of the central nervous system (CNS). The protease-activated receptors (PARs) pathway can be considered the central hub of this regulatory network, mainly through thrombin or activated protein C (aPC). These proteins, in fact, showed peculiar properties, being able to interfere with synaptic homeostasis other than coagulation itself. These specific functions modulate neuronal networks, acting both on resident (neurons, astrocytes, and microglia) as well as circulating immune system cells and the extracellular matrix. The pleiotropy of these effects is produced through different receptors, expressed in various cell types, in a dose- and time-dependent pattern. We reviewed how these pathways may be involved in neurodegenerative diseases (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases), multiple sclerosis, ischemic stroke and post-ischemic epilepsy, CNS cancer, addiction, and mental health. These data open up a new path for the potential therapeutic use of the agonist/antagonist of these proteins in the management of several central nervous system diseases.
Control of NK Cell Activation by Immune Checkpoint Molecules
Authors: Beldi-Ferchiou Asma , Caillat-Zucman Sophie
Published: October 2017

The development of cancer and chronic infections is facilitated by many subversion mechanisms, among which enhanced expression of immune checkpoints molecules, such as programmed death-1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA-4), on exhausted T cells. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown remarkable efficiency in the treatment of a number of cancers. However, expression of immune checkpoints on natural killer (NK) cells and its functional consequences on NK cell effector functions are much less explored. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge on expression of various immune checkpoints in NK cells, how it can alter NK cell-mediated cytotoxicity and cytokine production. Dissecting the role of these inhibitory mechanisms in NK cells is critical for the full understanding of the mode of action of immunotherapies using checkpoint inhibitors in the treatment of cancers and chronic infections.
3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-Heptamethoxyflavone Ameliorates Depressive-Like Behavior and Hippocampal Neurochemical Changes in Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stressed Mice by Regulating the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor: Requirement for ERK Activation
Authors: Sawamoto Atsushi , Okuyama Satoshi , Amakura Yoshiaki , Yoshimura Morio , Yamada Takashi , Yokogoshi Hidehiko , Nakajima Mitsunari , Furukawa Yoshiko
Published: October 2017

We previously reported that the subcutaneous administration of 3,5,6,7,8,3′,4′-heptamethoxyflavone (HMF), a citrus polymethoxyflavone, attenuated depressive-like behavior and increased the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus of a corticosterone-induced depression-like mouse model. We herein demonstrated that (1) HMF was detectable in the brain 10 and 30 min after its oral administration, (2) orally administered HMF improved chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced pathological conditions, including body weight loss and depressive-like behavior, and CUMS-induced neurochemical changes, such as reduction in BDNF expression, decrease in neurogenesis, and decreased level of phosphorylated calcium-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II in the hippocampus, and (3) these effects of HMF were inhibited by the pre-administration of U0126, a mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase inhibitor. These results suggest that orally administered HMF is beneficial for the upregulation of BDNF in the hippocampus via the extracellular signal-regulated kinase1/2 (ERK1/2)/MAP system, which may account for its antidepression effects.
Diversity and Antimicrobial Potential of Predatory Bacteria from the Peruvian Coastline
Authors: Linares-Otoya Luis , Linares-Otoya Virginia , Armas-Mantilla Lizbeth , Blanco-Olano Cyntia , Crüsemann Max , Ganoza-Yupanqui Mayar , Campos-Florian Julio , König Gabriele , Schäberle Till
Published: October 2017

The microbiome of three different sites at the Peruvian Pacific coast was analyzed, revealing a lower bacterial biodiversity at Isla Foca than at Paracas and Manglares, with 89 bacterial genera identified, as compared to 195 and 173 genera, respectively. Only 47 of the bacterial genera identified were common to all three sites. In order to obtain promising strains for the putative production of novel antimicrobials, predatory bacteria were isolated from these sampling sites, using two different bait organisms. Even though the proportion of predatory bacteria was only around 0.5% in the here investigated environmental microbiomes, by this approach in total 138 bacterial strains were isolated as axenic culture. 25% of strains showed antibacterial activity, thereby nine revealed activity against clinically relevant methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and three against enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) strains. Phylogeny and physiological characteristics of the active strains were investigated. First insights into the chemical basis of the antibacterial activity indicated the biosynthetic production of the known compounds ariakemicin, kocurin, naphthyridinomycin, pumilacidins, resistomycin, and surfactin. However, most compounds remained elusive until now. Hence, the obtained results implicate that the microbiome present at the various habitats at the Peruvian coastline is a promising source for heterotrophic bacterial strains showing high potential for the biotechnological production of antibiotics.
The Gut Microbiome Feelings of the Brain: A Perspective for Non-Microbiologists
Authors: Lerner Aaron , Neidhöfer Sandra , Matthias Torsten
Published: October 2017

Objectives: To comprehensively review the scientific knowledge on the gut–brain axis. Methods: Various publications on the gut–brain axis, until 31 July 2017, were screened using the Medline, Google, and Cochrane Library databases. The search was performed using the following keywords: “gut-brain axis”, “gut-microbiota-brain axis”, “nutrition microbiome/microbiota”, “enteric nervous system”, “enteric glial cells/network”, “gut-brain pathways”, “microbiome immune system”, “microbiome neuroendocrine system” and “intestinal/gut/enteric neuropeptides”. Relevant articles were selected and reviewed. Results: Tremendous progress has been made in exploring the interactions between nutrients, the microbiome, and the intestinal, epithelium–enteric nervous, endocrine and immune systems and the brain. The basis of the gut–brain axis comprises of an array of multichannel sensing and trafficking pathways that are suggested to convey the enteric signals to the brain. These are mediated by neuroanatomy (represented by the vagal and spinal afferent neurons), the neuroendocrine–hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis (represented by the gut hormones), immune routes (represented by multiple cytokines), microbially-derived neurotransmitters, and finally the gate keepers of the intestinal and brain barriers. Their mutual and harmonious but intricate interaction is essential for human life and brain performance. However, a failure in the interaction leads to a number of inflammatory-, autoimmune-, neurodegenerative-, metabolic-, mood-, behavioral-, cognitive-, autism-spectrum-, stress- and pain-related disorders. The limited availability of information on the mechanisms, pathways and cause-and-effect relationships hinders us from translating and implementing the knowledge from the bench to the clinic. Implications: Further understanding of this intricate field might potentially shed light on novel preventive and therapeutic strategies to combat these disorders. Nutritional approaches, microbiome manipulations, enteric and brain barrier reinforcement and sensing and trafficking modulation might improve physical and mental health outcomes.
Effect of Cadmium and Copper Exposure on Growth, Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Activity in the Medicinal Plant Sambung Nyawa (Gynura procumbens (Lour.) Merr)
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd , Chee Kong Yap , Mohd Zain Nurul
Published: October 2017

A randomized complete block (RCBD) study was designed to investigate the effects of cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) on the growth, bioaccumulation of the two heavy metals, metabolite content and antibacterial activities in Gyanura procumbens (Lour.) Merr. Nine treatments including (1) control (no Cd and Cu); (2) Cd 2 = cadmium 2 mg/L; (3) Cd 4 = cadmium 4 mg/L; (4) Cu 70 = copper 70 mg/L; (5) Cu 140 = copper 140 mg/L); (6) Cd 2 + Cu 70 = cadmium 2 mg/L + copper 70 mg/L); (7) Cd 2 + Cu 140 = cadmium 2 mg/L + copper 70 mg/L); (8) Cd 4 + Cu 70 = cadmium 4 mg/L+ copper 70 mg/L and (9) Cd 4 + Cu 140 = cadmium 4 mg/L + copper 140 mg/L) were evaluated in this experiment. It was found that the growth parameters (plant dry weight, total leaf area and basal diameter) were reduced with the exposure to increased concentrations of Cd and Cu and further decreased under interaction between Cd and Cu. Production of total phenolics, flavonoids and saponin was observed to be reduced under combined Cd and Cu treatment. The reduction in the production of plant secondary metabolites might be due to lower phenyl alanine lyase (PAL) activity under these conditions. Due to that, the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) and antibacterial activities was also found to be reduced by the combined treatments. The current experiments show that the medicinal properties of G. procumbens are reduced by cadmium and copper contamination. The accumulation of heavy metal also was found to be higher than the safety level recommended by the WHO in the single and combined treatments of Cd and Cu. These results indicate that exposure of G. procumbens to Cd and Cu contaminated soil may potentially harm consumers due to bioaccumulation of metals and reduced efficacy of the herbal product.
Facile and Green Synthesis of Saturated Cyclic Amines
Authors: Hameed Arruje , Javed Sadia , Noreen Razia , Huma Tayyaba , Iqbal Sarosh , Umbreen Huma , Gulzar Tahsin , Farooq Tahir
Published: October 2017

Single-nitrogen containing saturated cyclic amines are an important part of both natural and synthetic bioactive compounds. A number of methodologies have been developed for the synthesis of aziridines, azetidines, pyrrolidines, piperidines, azepanes and azocanes. This review highlights some facile and green synthetic routes for the synthesis of unsubstituted, multisubstituted and highly functionalized saturated cyclic amines including one-pot, microwave assisted, metal-free, solvent-free and in aqueous media.
Diallylthiosulfinate (Allicin), a Volatile Antimicrobial from Garlic (Allium sativum), Kills Human Lung Pathogenic Bacteria, Including MDR Strains, as a Vapor
Authors: Reiter Jana , Levina Natalja , Van der Linden Mark , Gruhlke Martin , Martin Christian , Slusarenko Alan
Published: October 2017

Garlic (Allium sativum) has potent antimicrobial activity due to allicin (diallylthiosulfinate) synthesized by enzyme catalysis in damaged garlic tissues. Allicin gives crushed garlic its characteristic odor and its volatility makes it potentially useful for combating lung infections. Allicin was synthesized (>98% pure) by oxidation of diallyl disulfide by H2O2 using formic acid as a catalyst and the growth inhibitory effect of allicin vapor and allicin in solution to clinical isolates of lung pathogenic bacteria from the genera Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus, including multi-drug resistant (MDR) strains, was demonstrated. Minimal inhibitory (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were determined and compared to clinical antibiotics using standard European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) procedures. The cytotoxicity of allicin to human lung and colon epithelial and murine fibroblast cells was tested in vitro and shown to be ameliorated by glutathione (GSH). Similarly, the sensitivity of rat precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) to allicin was decreased by raising the [GSH] to the approximate blood plasma level of 1 mM. Because allicin inhibited bacterial growth as a vapor, it could be used to combat bacterial lung infections via direct inhalation. Since there are no volatile antibiotics available to treat pulmonary infections, allicin, particularly at sublethal doses in combination with oral antibiotics, could make a valuable addition to currently available treatments.
The Association of Vitamin D Status with Disease Activity in a Cohort of Crohn’s Disease Patients in Canada
Authors: Alrefai Dania , Jones Jennifer , El-Matary Wael , Whiting Susan , Aljebreen Abdulrahman , Mirhosseini Naghmeh , Vatanparast Hassan
Published: October 2017

We determined the association between vitamin D status as 25hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and disease activity in a cohort of 201 Crohn’s Disease (CD) patients in Saskatoon, Canada over three years. The association between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and 25(OH)D and several disease predictors were evaluated by the generalized estimating equation (GEE) over three time-point measurements. A GEE binary logistic regression test was used to evaluate the association between vitamin D status and the Harvey-Bradshaw Index (HBI). The deficient vitamin D group (≤29 nmol/L) had significantly higher mean hs-CRP levels compared with the three other categories of vitamin D status (p < 0.05). CRP was significantly lower in all of the other groups compared with the vitamin D-deficient group, which had Coef. = 12.8 units lower (95% CI −19.8, −5.8), Coef. 7.85 units (95% CI −14.9, −0.7), Coef. 9.87 units (95% CI −17.6, −2.0) for the vitamin D insufficient, adequate, and optimal groups, respectively. The vitamin D status was associated with the HBI active disease category. However, the difference in the odds ratio compared with the reference category of deficient vitamin D category was only significant in the insufficient category (odds ratio = 3.45, p = 0.03, 95% CI 1.0, 10.8). Vitamin D status was inversely associated with indicators of disease activity in Crohn’s disease, particularly with the objective measures of inflammation.
Altered Protein Expression of Cardiac CYP2J and Hepatic CYP2C, CYP4A, and CYP4F in a Mouse Model of Type II Diabetes—A Link in the Onset and Development of Cardiovascular Disease?
Authors: Drolet Benoit , Pilote Sylvie , Gélinas Carolanne , Kamaliza Alida-Douce , Blais-Boilard Audrey , Virgili Jessica , Patoine Dany , Simard Chantale
Published: October 2017

Arachidonic acid can be metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes in a tissue- and cell-specific manner to generate vasoactive products such as epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs-cardioprotective) and hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs-cardiotoxic). Type II diabetes is a well-recognized risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease. A mouse model of Type II diabetes (C57BLKS/J-db/db) was used. After sacrifice, livers and hearts were collected, washed, and snap frozen. Total proteins were extracted. Western blots were performed to assess cardiac CYP2J and hepatic CYP2C, CYP4A, and CYP4F protein expression, respectively. Significant decreases in relative protein expression of cardiac CYP2J and hepatic CYP2C were observed in Type II diabetes animals compared to controls (CYP2J: 0.80 ± 0.03 vs. 1.05 ± 0.06, n = 20, p < 0.001); (CYP2C: 1.56 ± 0.17 vs. 2.21 ± 0.19, n = 19, p < 0.01). In contrast, significant increases in relative protein expression of both hepatic CYP4A and CYP4F were noted in Type II diabetes mice compared to controls (CYP4A: 1.06 ± 0.09 vs. 0.18 ± 0.01, n = 19, p < 0.001); (CYP4F: 2.53 ± 0.22 vs. 1.10 ± 0.07, n = 19, p < 0.001). These alterations induced by Type II diabetes in the endogenous pathway (CYP450) of arachidonic acid metabolism may increase the risk for cardiovascular disease by disrupting the fine equilibrium between cardioprotective (CYP2J/CYP2C-generated) and cardiotoxic (CYP4A/CYP4F-generated) metabolites of arachidonic acid.
Computational Dynamics of Natural Information Morphology, Discretely Continuous
Authors: Dodig-Crnkovic Gordana
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a theoretical study of the binary oppositions underlying the mechanisms of natural computation understood as dynamical processes on natural information morphologies. Of special interest are the oppositions of discrete vs. continuous, structure vs. process, and differentiation vs. integration. The framework used is that of computing nature, where all natural processes at different levels of organisation are computations over informational structures. The interactions at different levels of granularity/organisation in nature, and the character of the phenomena that unfold through those interactions, are modeled from the perspective of an observing agent. This brings us to the movement from binary oppositions to dynamic networks built upon mutually related binary oppositions, where each node has several properties.
Fabrication of Al2O3 Nano-Structure Functional Film on a Cellulose Insulation Polymer Surface and Its Space Charge Suppression Effect
Authors: Hao Jian , Li Yanqing , Liao Ruijin , Liu Guoyong , Liao Qiang , Tang Chao
Published: October 2017

Cellulose insulation polymer (paper/pressboard) has been widely used in high voltage direct current (HVDC) transformers. One of the most challenging issues in the insulation material used for HVDC equipment is the space charge accumulation. Effective ways to suppress the space charge injection/accumulation in insulation material is currently a popular research topic. In this study, an aluminium oxide functional film was deposited on a cellulose insulation pressboard surface using reactive radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. The sputtered thin film was characterized by the scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometer (SEM/EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The influence of the deposited functional film on the dielectric properties and the space charge injection/accumulation behaviour was investigated. A preliminary exploration of the space charge suppression effect is discussed. SEM/EDS, XPS, and XRD results show that the nano-structured Al2O3 film with amorphous phase was successfully fabricated onto the fibre surface. The cellulose insulation pressboard surface sputtered by Al2O3 film has lower permittivity, conductivity, and dissipation factor values in the lower frequency (<103 Hz) region. The oil-impregnated sputtered pressboard presents an apparent space-charge suppression effect. Compared with the pressboard sputtered with Al2O3 film for 90 min, the pressboard sputtered with Al2O3 film for 60 min had a better space charge suppression effect. Ultra-small Al2O3 particles (<10 nm) grew on the surface of the larger nanoparticles. The nano-structured Al2O3 film sputtered on the fibre surface could act as a functional barrier layer for suppression of the charge injection and accumulation. This study offers a new perspective in favour of the application of insulation pressboard with a nano-structured function surface against space charge injection/accumulation in HVDC equipment.
Supramolecular Interactions Induce Unexpectedly Strong Emissions from Triphenylamine-Functionalized Polytyrosine Blended with Poly(4-vinylpyridine)
Authors: Jheng Yu-Ru , Mohamed Mohamed , Kuo Shiao-Wei
Published: October 2017

In this study, we synthesized a triphenylamine-functionalized polytyrosine (PTyr-TPA) through living ring opening polymerization with 4,4′-diamino-4″-methoxytriphenylamine (TPA-NH2) as an initiator, and used Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to confirm the chemical structure. Photoluminescence spectroscopy revealed the photophysical properties of TPA-NH2 and PTyr-TPA and suggested that TPA-NH2 exhibited aggregation-caused quenching; in contrast, attaching the initiator to the rigid rod conformation of the PTyr segments caused PTyr-TPA to display aggregation-induced emission behavior. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed single glass transition temperatures for miscible PTyr-TPA/P4VP blends, the result of intermolecular hydrogen bonding between the pyridine units of P4VP and the phenolic OH units of PTyr-TPA, as confirmed through FTIR spectroscopic analyses. Furthermore, the chain behavior of PTyr-TPA transformed from a β-sheet conformation to random coils after blending with P4VP, as determined using wide-angle X-ray diffraction. These findings suggest that the decreased emission intensity of PTyr-TPA resulted from release of the restricted intramolecular rotation of the triphenylamine moiety in the polypeptide center.
Soft Smart Garments for Lower Limb Joint Position Analysis
Authors: Totaro Massimo , Poliero Tommaso , Mondini Alessio , Lucarotti Chiara , Cairoli Giovanni , Ortiz Jesùs , Beccai Lucia
Published: October 2017

Revealing human movement requires lightweight, flexible systems capable of detecting mechanical parameters (like strain and pressure) while being worn comfortably by the user, and not interfering with his/her activity. In this work we address such multifaceted challenge with the development of smart garments for lower limb motion detection, like a textile kneepad and anklet in which soft sensors and readout electronics are embedded for retrieving movement of the specific joint. Stretchable capacitive sensors with a three-electrode configuration are built combining conductive textiles and elastomeric layers, and distributed around knee and ankle. Results show an excellent behavior in the ~30% strain range, hence the correlation between sensors’ responses and the optically tracked Euler angles is allowed for basic lower limb movements. Bending during knee flexion/extension is detected, and it is discriminated from any external contact by implementing in real time a low computational algorithm. The smart anklet is designed to address joint motion detection in and off the sagittal plane. Ankle dorsi/plantar flexion, adduction/abduction, and rotation are retrieved. Both knee and ankle smart garments show a high accuracy in movement detection, with a RMSE less than 4° in the worst case.
Design of a Low-Cost Air Levitation System for Teaching Control Engineering
Authors: Chacon Jesus , Saenz Jacobo , Torre Luis , Diaz Jose , Esquembre Francisco 
Published: October 2017

Air levitation is the process by which an object is lifted without mechanical support in a stable position, by providing an upward force that counteracts the gravitational force exerted on the object. This work presents a low-cost lab implementation of an air levitation system, based on open solutions. The rapid dynamics makes it especially suitable for a control remote lab. Due to the system’s nature, the design can be optimized and, with some precision trade-off, kept affordable both in cost and construction effort. It was designed to be easily adopted to be used as both a remote lab and as a hands-on lab.
Electrodermal Activity Sensor for Classification of Calm/Distress Condition
Authors: Zangróniz Roberto , Martínez-Rodrigo Arturo , Pastor José , López María , Fernández-Caballero Antonio
Published: October 2017

This article introduces a new and unobtrusive wearable monitoring device based on electrodermal activity (EDA) to be used in health-related computing systems. This paper introduces the description of the wearable device capable of acquiring the EDA of a subject in order to detect his/her calm/distress condition from the acquired physiological signals. The lightweight wearable device is placed in the wrist of the subject to allow continuous physiological measurements. With the aim of validating the correct operation of the wearable EDA device, pictures from the International Affective Picture System are used in a control experiment involving fifty participants. The collected signals are processed, features are extracted and a statistical analysis is performed on the calm/distress condition classification. The results show that the wearable device solely based on EDA signal processing reports around 89% accuracy when distinguishing calm condition from distress condition.
Research on Climate Change Policies and Rural Development in Latin America: Scope and Gaps
Authors: Locatelli Bruno , Aldunce Paulina , Fallot Abigaïl , Le Coq Jean-François , Sabourin Eric , Tapasco Jeimar
Published: October 2017

Research on climate change policies can contribute to policy development by building an understanding of the barriers faced in policy processes, and by providing knowledge needed throughout policy cycles. This paper explores the thematic coverage of research on climate change policies related to rural areas, rural development, and natural resource management in Latin America. A three-tier framework is proposed to analyse the selected literature. The results show that research studies have focussed on the mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions from forests, and adaptations to climate change in agriculture. There is little policy research on other vulnerable sectors (e.g., water and health) and emitting sectors (e.g., energy and industry) in the context of rural development. Our analysis highlights the various research gaps that deserve increased scientific attention, including: cross-sector approaches, multi-level governance, and the stages of policy adoption, implementation and evaluation. In addition, the selected literature has a limited contribution to theoretical discussions in policy sciences.
Plant Ribosome-Inactivating Proteins: Progesses, Challenges and Biotechnological Applications (and a Few Digressions)
Authors: Fabbrini Maria , Katayama Miku , Nakase Ikuhiko , Vago Riccardo
Published: October 2017

Plant ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) toxins are EC3.2.2.22 N-glycosidases, found among most plant species encoded as small gene families, distributed in several tissues being endowed with defensive functions against fungal or viral infections. The two main plant RIP classes include type I (monomeric) and type II (dimeric) as the prototype ricin holotoxin from Ricinus communis that is composed of a catalytic active A chain linked via a disulphide bridge to a B-lectin domain that mediates efficient endocytosis in eukaryotic cells. Plant RIPs can recognize a universally conserved stem-loop, known as the α-sarcin/ ricin loop or SRL structure in 23S/25S/28S rRNA. By depurinating a single adenine (A4324 in 28S rat rRNA), they can irreversibly arrest protein translation and trigger cell death in the intoxicated mammalian cell. Besides their useful application as potential weapons against infected/tumor cells, ricin was also used in bio-terroristic attacks and, as such, constitutes a major concern. In this review, we aim to summarize past studies and more recent progresses made studying plant RIPs and discuss successful approaches that might help overcoming some of the bottlenecks encountered during the development of their biomedical applications.
Long-Term Downstream Effects of a Dam on a Lowland River Flow Regime: Case Study of the Upper Narew
Authors: Marcinkowski Paweł , Grygoruk Mateusz
Published: October 2017

Most European riverine ecosystems suffer from the negative influence of impoundments on flow regime. Downstream effects of dams lead to a number of environmental and socioeconomic risks and, therefore, should be thoroughly examined in specific contexts. Our study aims to quantify the downstream effects of the Siemianówka Reservoir (Upper Narew, Poland), using statistical analysis of key elements of the river’s flow regime, such as the flow duration and recurrence of floods and droughts. In a comparative study on control catchments not influenced by impoundments (the Supraśl and Narewka Rivers), we revealed the following downstream effects of the analyzed dam: significant shortening of spring floods, reduction of the duration and depth of summer droughts, decrease of the maximum discharge, and homogenization of the discharge hydrographs. Although we determined a significant decrease in the duration of summer floods in the “before” and “after” dam function periods, we showed that this issue is regional, climate-related, and replicated in control catchments, rather than an evident downstream effect of the dam. We conclude that significant hydrological downstream effects of the Siemianówka dam–reservoir system could have been the main driver inducing the deterioration of the anastomosing stretch of the Narew River downstream of the dam.