bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Levels of Lucerne Straw in Total Mixed Ration on Rumen Fermentation Pattern
and Blood Metabolites in Bullocks
Authors: Lunagariya P. M. , Pande M. B.
Published: October 2016

A study was planned to ascertain effect of 50 (T1), 60 (T2) and 70 (T3) % lucerne straw in total
mixed ration (TMR) on rumen fermentation and blood metabolites in Kankrej crossbred bullocks.
Two bullocks were assigned in each treatment using 3 x 3 Latin Square design. The rumen and
blood metabolites were evaluated on last day of each period. The pH of strained rumen liquor (SRL)
was slightly alkaline (7.09-7.16) on account of green forage feeding in morning before TMR. The
pH was lowest at 4 hr post-feeding. The total volatile fatty acids (TVFAs) were 75.79-77.67 mEq/
litre and a reverse trend was observed for TVFAs as compared to pH. The values for ammonia,
total, soluble, non-protein and protein nitrogen in SRL were 15.07-17.52, 86.92-90.07, 39.90-46.55,
35.88-40.69 and 46.23-53.50 mg/100 ml, respectively. All nitrogen fractions peaked at 2 hr postfeeding,
except protein nitrogen which peaked at 6 hr, showing maximum activity up to 6 hr postfeeding.
The values for serum protein, phosphorus and calcium as well as blood haemoglobin were
within physiological range. The differences amongst treatments for rumen and blood metabolites
were non-significant. The results suggest that lucerne straw can be incorporated up to 70% in TMR
of bovines for maintenance without adverse effect on rumen fermentation and blood constituents
Ultrasonographic Studies of Follicular Activities in Clomiphene Citrate Treated Anoestrus Cows
Authors: Patil Manjusha , Ingawale M. V. , Birade H. S.. , Anwar A. Syed
Published: October 2016

An experiment on ultrasonographic studies of follicular activities in clomiphene citrate treated
anoestrus cows was conducted. Ultrasound scanning was performed to record the follicular activities
on alternate day throughout one estrous cycle for control group and from drug administration to
induction of estrus in treatment group. The postpartum induced estrus (treatment group) and regular
estrus (control group) differed highly significantly (p is less than 0.01) with respect to number of follicles involved
in ovulatory wave (6.67 ± 0.21 Vs 5.00 ± 0.45) and significantly (pis less than 0.05) with respect to growth
rate (1.82 ± 0.34 Vs 1.04 ± 0.94 mm/day) and increase in diameter of dominant follicle (7.58 ±
0.72 Vs 10.2 ± 0.47 mm). Maximum diameter of ovulatory follicle in induced estrus was greater
than regular estrus (16.12 ± 0.56 Vs15.18 ± 0.47 mm), however, it differed non-significantly
Prediction of Gestational Age in Osmanabadi Goats by Ultrasonic Measurement of Crown-Rump Length
Authors: Patil Prasanna , Sahatpure S. K. , Patil A. D. , Kumar Umesh , Jena Basanti , Nahak A. K. , Sharma Laxman  Prasad
Published: October 2016

The objective of this study was to predict gestational age of Osmanabadi goats by realtime
ultrasonography using measurements of Crown Rump Length (CRL). CRL was measured
in 15 Osmanabadi goats, by transabdominal ultrasonography carried out on days 35, 42,
49, 56, 63 and 70 of gestation, those became pregnant after oestrus detection and natural
mating following oestrus synchronization in 30 does using double PGF2α injections 11 days apart.
Gestational age was calculated by using gestational equations derived from the linear regression
analysis. Results clearly demonstrated that biometric parameter CRL was significantly (P ios less than 0.01)
correlated with gestational age (r= 0.988) and was a reliable index to predict gestational age
in Osmanabadi goats.
Transforming Administration and Governance by Creating Associations: An Evaluation of China's Experience
Authors: Foster Kenneth W.
Published: October 2016

Over the past two decades the Chiese central state has promoted the creation and development of business and professional associations. The promotion of associations was conceived and has been carried out as a bureaucratic project. The individual agencies of the state bureaucracy have played a central role in the creation of associations within their spheres of jurisdiction. Although many associations have been creatied, the fact that associations exist and are treated as appendages of individual state agencies has hindered the development of these associations. In addition, confusion exists as to the precised role of associations in regulating economic activity. This article argues that if associations are to play a more positive and dynamic role in the economy than they have to date, decisive action on the part of the central state is need to breat the stifling dominance of bureaucratic agencies over association and to clarify the role of associations vis-a-vis regulation. Detailed case studies of two associations are presented to illustrate and suppor the argument.
The Development of the Chinese Public Administration Society
Authors: Zhang Mengzhong
Published: October 2016

It has been 13 years since the Chinese Public Administration Society (CPAS) was founded in October of 1988. The path of development of CPAS has been closely associated with the new era of China's opening and reform policy. It has furthered the practice of public administration and its development as an emerging academic discipline. A review of the history and present situation of CPAS will not only help readers understand CPAS better, but also understnad better the development of administrative science in contemporary China.
Influenza equina: revisão de literatura
Authors: Galhardo Juliana Arena , Menezes Daniely Coelho de , Oliveira Nathalia Guedes de
Published: October 2016

Equine influenzavirus (EIV) is considered one of the major infectious agents causing respiratory outbreaks in horses in Brazil and worldwide. EIV is classified into two subtypes, H3N8 is widespread in horse population and subtype H7N7, despite being possibly detected by serological methods, is considered extinct or circulating at low levels of prevalence. The disease presents short incubation period, about 48 hours, and recovery of up to three weeks. Equine influenza is mainly characterized by high morbidity and low mortality and clinical signs vary from mild to severe, depending on the immune status of the animal, which may occur due to worsening of secondary bacterial infections. Diagnosis is based on clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the disease. It is important for the differential diagnosis mainly Rodococcus equi and Streptococcus equi. Basic therapy is supportive, including the isolation of symptomatic animals. Prophylactic measures are used as methods of health management associated with vaccination.
Independent and Affiliated Analysts: Disciplining and Herding
Authors: Xue Hao
Published: October 2016

The paper investigates strategic interactions between an independent analyst and an affiliated analyst in the context of issuing stock recommendations. Compared to the independent analyst, the affiliated analyst has superior information, but faces a conflict of interest. I show that the independent analyst disciplines the affiliated analyst's biased forecasting behavior. Meanwhile, the independent analyst sometimes herds with the affiliated analyst to improve his recommendation accuracy. Because of the affiliated analyst's conflict of interest, the value the independent analyst expects to derive from his ex post herding option is endogenous and can motivate him to acquire more information up front. As a result, herding and disciplining not only coexist, but also mutually reinforce each other. That is, there is an endogenous complementarity between the independent analyst's ex ante disciplining role and his ex post herding behavior in equilibrium.
What is Economic Income for Corporate Taxation?
Authors: Costello Darcie M. , Sanders Debra L.
Published: October 2016

The economic income concept is relevant to numerous corporate tax issues, yet it is not clearly defined. It does not equate to taxable income or financial accounting retained earnings. The concept is required for earnings and profits, accumulated earnings and personal holding company penalty taxes, alternative minimum tax, and adjusted current earnings adjustment. However, it is defined differently under each provision. This complexity is inefficient. This article offers suggestions to improve tax law as it relates to economic income. A uniformly defined measure of economic income, earnings and profits, would be the starting point for all related tax measures, with appropriate adjustments that are consistent with the intent of tax measures. The resulting computation should be codified and provide comprehensive guidance for analysis in one source. Thus, earnings and profits becomes the platform for other provisions that require an economic income proxy, with necessary adjustments to meet specific policy objectives.
Effects of Liraglutide on Heart Rate and Heart Rate Variability: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Study
Authors: Kumarathurai Preman , Anholm Christian , Larsen Bjørn S. , Olsen Rasmus Huan , Madsbad Sten , Kristiansen Ole , Nielsen Olav W. , Haugaard Steen B. , Sajadieh Ahmad
Published: October 2016

OBJECTIVE

Reduced heart rate variability (HRV) and increased heart rate (HR) have been associated with cardiovascular mortality. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) increase HR, and studies have suggested that they may reduce HRV. We examined the effect of the GLP-1 RA liraglutide on HRV and diurnal variation of HR in overweight patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D) and stable coronary artery disease (CAD).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Liraglutide or placebo was administrated to a backbone therapy of metformin in this double-blind, placebo-controlled 12 + 12–week crossover study. SD of beat-to-beat (NN) intervals (SDNN) was assessed by 24-h Holter monitoring as a measure of HRV. Diurnal HR variation and sympathovagal balance analyzed by root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) in NN intervals and high-frequency (HF) and low-frequency (LF) power were assessed.

RESULTS

Compared with placebo, liraglutide decreased SDNN in 27 subjects (−33.9 ms; P < 0.001, paired analysis); decreased RMSSD (−0.3 log-ms; P = 0.025); and increased the mean HR (8.1 beats/min; P = 0.003), daytime HR (5.7; P = 0.083), and nighttime HR (6.3; P = 0.026). In a multivariable regression analysis, the decrease in SDNN remained significant after adjustment for metabolic and HR changes. Liraglutide reduced HF power (−0.7 log-ms2; P = 0.026) without any change in LF/HF ratio.

CONCLUSIONS

In overweight patients with CAD and newly diagnosed T2D, liraglutide increased HR and reduced HRV despite significant weight loss and improvement in metabolic parameters. The increase in nightly HR in conjunction with a decrease in parameters of parasympathetic activity suggests that liraglutide may affect sympathovagal balance.
Discovery of Rigidified ?,?-Unsaturated Imines as New Resistance-breaking Insecticides for Malaria Vector Control
Authors: Arlt Alexander , Böhnke Niels , Horstmann Sebastian , Vermeer Arnoldus W. P. , Werner Stefan , Velten Robert
Published: October 2016

During our continuous search for new resistance-breaking insecticides applicable to malaria vector control, a new class of ?,?-unsaturated imines was identified by applying the principle of conformational rigidification as a powerful tool for compound optimisation. Herein
we describe the successful synthesis of these compounds and their biological test results. Our lead compound 16 from this insecticidal class outperforms market standards, notably for the control of mosquito strains that exhibit either metabolic or target-site resistance to these established
insecticides. In our model system for insecticide-treated mosquito nets the compound reveals long-lasting efficacy for up to several months.
Bivalent Carbamates as Novel Control Agents of the Malaria Mosquito, Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Mutunga James M. , Chen Qiao-Hong , Wong Dawn M. , Lam Polo C-H. , Li Jianyong , Totrov Maxim M. , Gross Aaron D. , Carlier Paul R. , Bloomquist Jeffrey R.
Published: October 2016

Widespread pyrethroid resistance has caused an urgent need to develop new insecticides for control of the malaria mosquito, Anopheles gambiae. Insecticide discovery efforts were directed towards the construction of bivalent inhibitors that occupy both the peripheral and catalytic
sites of the mosquito acetylcholinesterase (AChE). It was hypothesized that this approach would yield a selective, high potency inhibitor that would also circumvent known catalytic site mutations (e.g. G119S) causing target site resistance. Accordingly, a series of bivalent phthalimide-pyrazole
carbamates were prepared having an alkyl chain linker of varying length, along with other modifications. The most active compound was (1-(3-(1,3-dioxoisoindolin-2-yl)propyl)-1H-pyrazol-4-yl methylcarbamate, 8a), which has a chain length of three carbons, good mosquito anticholinesterase
activity, and ca. 5-fold selectivity compared to human AChE. Moreover, this compound was toxic to mosquitoes by topical application (LD50 = 63 ng/female) with only 6-fold cross resistance in the Akron strain of Anopheles gambiae that showed 50- to 60-fold resistance to conventional
carbamate insecticides. However, contact lethality in the WHO paper assay was disappointing. The implications of these results for design of new mosquitocides are discussed.
Off they go: Single-use Technology in Future Production BioTech 2016 Conference at ZHAW Waedenswil
Authors: Heinzelmann Elsbeth
Published: October 2016

"Keep up with today's single-use technology standard but also remain one step ahead" – that could have been the motto of the BioTech 2016 conference at ZHAW Waedenswil on September 5 and 6, which brought together manufacturers, suppliers, users, regulatory specialists and representatives
of organizations in this field to implement single-use devices all over the world. It was an effectiveness analysis of the trend to replace reusable equipment in production facilities with single-use components.
Modern Drama as Historiography and Cultural Critique: Prisons, Poverty, and Political Economy in August Strindberg’s The Dance of Death I
Authors: Stenport Anna Westerståhl
Published: October 2016

August Strindberg’s The Dance of Death I [Dödsdansen I] (1900) has been understood as a pivotal play in the playwright’s extensive oeuvre, situated as a bridge between the naturalist works of his early career and the symbolist and proto-expressionist works of his later career. Few interpretations have been interested in historicizing the play’s references to its own sociocultural moment and immediate past. Yet The Dance of Death I is a play deeply invested in social and ideological critique and revisionist historiography. This article examines the play’s investigations into contemporary discourses on Swedish economic progress, military power, nationalism, and civic society, especially prison architecture.
Assessing the Efficacy of a Group Mediated Nutritional Knowledge Intervention for Individuals with Obesity
Authors: Miedema Baukje , Bowes Andrea , Hamilton Ryan , Reading Stacey
Published: October 2016

Purpose: This study reports on the effect of a group-based nutrition and physical activity intervention program on nutrition knowledge and eating habits in a cohort of people with obesity.

Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test measures. The intervention consisted of physical activity led by certified exercise physiologists and a nutritional education component led by registered dietitians over a 6-month period followed by 6 months of self-management. Participants’ nutrition knowledge and eating habits were assessed using the modified Nutrition Assessment, the Nutrition Knowledge Survey, and the Food Choice Questionnaires at baseline, after the 6-month intervention, and after 6 months of self-management.

Results: Complete data were available for 59 (40%) of participants after 12 months because of attrition. Nutritional knowledge and behaviours improved. Participants reported increasing their consumption of healthy foods during the active intervention and maintained these changes through the self-management phase. Knowledge of healthy foods was improved and a greater likelihood of choosing food for weight control and health properties was reported.

Conclusions: Knowledge and reported consumption of healthier nutrition improved during the active intervention and was maintained during the self-management period for individuals who completed the program. Registered dietitians can play an important role in managing patients with obesity in group settings.
Corneal Endothelial Change after Phacoemulsification
Authors: Siddique Md Abdus Salam
Published: October 2016

Background: Phacoemulsification is the modern method of sight restoring surgery for cataract and it is becoming popular day by day. We planned this study to find out any significant cell loss during this procedure leading to corneal endothelial decompression.Objective: To compare the preoperative and postoperative cell counts after phacoemulsification surgery.Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out at the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, Dhaka from July to September, 2008 to see the corneal endothelial change after phacoemulsification. A total of 60 cases with lental opacity, who underwent phacoemulsification surgery, were studied with specular microscope. The endothelial cell count was measured with specular microscope before and after cataract surgery. Postoperative cases were followed up to one and half months after surgery. A single group of patients were studied and their preoperative and postoperative values were compared. The inclusion and exclusion criteria were maintained properly.Results: The mean preoperative endothelial cell count was 2745.35 ± 395.27 (SD) per mm2 which gradually decreased to 2545.23 ± 348.83 (SD) per mm2 at the end of one and half months after surgery; mean cell loss was 200.12 ± 46.44 (7.29%).Conclusion: This study reveals that a moderate loss of endothelial cell after phacoemulsification does not hamper the corneal transparency and visual function as depicted from visual acuity records in follow-up periods, provided the endothelium is healthy and the number is above the threshold limit.J Enam Med Col 2016; 6(3): 134-139
Challenges in Cost Estimation under Uncertainty—A Case Study of the Decommissioning of Barsebäck Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Torp Olav , Klakegg Ole
Published: October 2016

Cost estimation is an important part of project planning. Over the years different approaches have developed, taking uncertainty into account in the cost estimation processes in order to tackle the dynamic nature of projects. However, when implementing these approaches, some challenges have been revealed. The aim in a cost estimation process is to establish a realistic overview of the total project costs and its uncertainties. Even though tools and methods for taking uncertainty into account are implemented, projects with cost overruns are often seen. In this paper we look into some challenges with the practice in cost estimation processes and identify possible improvements to overcome them. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate better solutions to some of the major weaknesses identified in current cost estimation practice. We use a case study of decommissioning of Barsebäck Nuclear Power Plant to illustrate how to overcome these challenges. First of all, this is an interesting case with challenges related to the project and the cost estimation process, given the complexity in the situation and that very few have experiences related to decommission of nuclear power plants. Second, we applied an approach that is not yet commonly used to develop cost estimates for this kind of projects. The paper concludes that it is possible to improve the results of uncertainty analysis of cost estimates. A well prepared process, with a suitable group of experts that go through a well-structured process, focusing both on risks and opportunities and using a top-down approach can compensate for some of the challenges related to cost estimation under uncertainty.
Modulation of the Anti-Tumor Efficacy of Photodynamic Therapy by Nitric Oxide
Authors: Girotti Albert
Published: October 2016

Nitric oxide (NO) produced by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes is a free radical molecule involved in a wide variety of normophysiologic and pathophysiologic processes. Included in the latter category are cancer promotion, progression, and resistance to therapeutic intervention. Animal tumor photodynamic therapy (PDT) studies several years ago revealed that endogenous NO can reduce PDT efficacy and that NOS inhibitors can alleviate this. Until relatively recently, little else was known about this anti-PDT effect of NO, including: (a) the underlying mechanisms; (b) type(s) of NOS involved; and (c) whether active NO was generated in vascular cells, tumor cells, or both. In addressing these questions for various cancer cell lines exposed to PDT-like conditions, the author’s group has made several novel findings, including: (i) exogenous NO can scavenge lipid-derived free radicals arising from photostress, thereby protecting cells from membrane-damaging chain peroxidation; (ii) cancer cells can upregulate inducible NOS (iNOS) after a PDT-like challenge and the resulting NO can signal for resistance to photokilling; (iii) photostress-surviving cells with elevated iNOS/NO proliferate and migrate/invade more aggressively; and (iv) NO produced by photostress-targeted cells can induce greater aggressiveness in non-targeted bystander cells. In this article, the author briefly discusses these various means by which NO can interfere with PDT and how this may be mitigated by use of NOS inhibitors as PDT adjuvants.
The Valuation of Equities and the GDP Growth Effect: A Global Empirical Study
Authors: Rey Sebastián
Published: October 2016

One of the main characteristics of the (recently proposed) non-arbitrage valuation of equities framework is the reduction in pricing subjectivity. This is evidenced in terms of the dividends discount rate and the outlook of future performance (dividends projection) of the company that is being valued. Under this framework, as in the case of derivatives pricing, the discount rate is the risk-free interest rate (not the cost of equity), and the subjectively-determined drift of the stochastic process that drives the operating profits of the company is eliminated. The challenge that emerges is that the structure of the new drift of the operating profits process is undetermined under the methodology (this is a similar feature that is observed in the case of derivatives related to non-tradable assets). This paper proposes that the structure of this new drift is represented by the (country-specific) GDP nominal growth effect. This proposition is tested through an empirical study that involves several companies of 10 equity indices worldwide, for two different periods (1995–2004 and 2005–2014). The results of the test are reasonably successful, meaning that further research related to the framework could provide useful information for the understanding of financial assets and their links to the macro-economy.
Direct Catalytic Conversion of Cellulose to 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural Using Ionic Liquids
Authors: Eminov Sanan , Filippousi Paraskevi , Brandt Agnieszka , Wilton-Ely James , Hallett Jason
Published: October 2016

Cellulose is the single largest component of lignocellulosic biomass and is an attractive feedstock for a wide variety of renewable platform chemicals and biofuels, providing an alternative to petrochemicals and petrofuels. This potential is currently limited by the existing methods of transforming this poorly soluble polymer into useful chemical building blocks, such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). Ionic liquids have been used successfully to separate cellulose from the other components of lignocellulosic biomass and so the use of the same medium for the challenging transformation of cellulose into HMF would be highly attractive for the development of the biorefinery concept. In this report, ionic liquids based on 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium cations [C4C1im]+ with Lewis basic (X = Cl−) and Brønsted acidic (X = HSO4−) anions were used to investigate the direct catalytic transformation of cellulose to HMF. Variables probed included the composition of the ionic liquid medium, the metal catalyst, and the reaction conditions (temperature, substrate concentration). Lowering the cellulose loading and optimising the temperature achieved a 58% HMF yield after only one hour at 150 °C using a 7 mol % loading of the CrCl3 catalyst. This compares favourably with current literature procedures requiring much longer reactions times or approaches that are difficult to scale such as microwave irradiation.
Susceptibility of Bemisia tabaci MEAM1 (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) to Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam, Dinotefuran and Flupyradifurone in South Florida
Authors: Smith Hugh , Nagle Curtis , MacVean Charles , McKenzie Cindy
Published: October 2016

Populations of Bemisa tabaci MEAM1 were established from nineteen locations in south Florida, primarily from commercial tomato fields, and were tested using a cotton leaf petiole systemic uptake method for susceptibility to the nicotinic acetylcholine agonist insecticides imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran and flupyradifurone. Eleven populations produced LC50s for one or more chemicals that were not significantly different from the susceptible laboratory colony based on overlapping fiducial limits, indicating some degree of susceptibility. LC50s more than a 100-fold the laboratory colony were measured in at least one population for each material tested, indicating tolerance. LC50s (ppm) from field populations ranged from 0.901–24.952 for imidacloprid, 0.965–24.430 for thiamethoxam, 0.043–3.350 for dinotefuran and 0.011–1.471 for flupyradifurone. Based on overlapping fiducial limits, there were no significant differences in relative mean potency estimates for flupyradifurone and dinotefuran in relation to imidacloprid and thiamethoxam.
Low Power Design for Future Wearable and Implantable Devices
Authors: Lundager Katrine , Zeinali Behzad , Tohidi Mohammad , Madsen Jens , Moradi Farshad
Published: October 2016

With the fast progress in miniaturization of sensors and advances in micromachinery systems, a gate has been opened to the researchers to develop extremely small wearable/implantable microsystems for different applications. However, these devices are reaching not to a physical limit but a power limit, which is a critical limit for further miniaturization to develop smaller and smarter wearable/implantable devices (WIDs), especially for multi-task continuous computing purposes. Developing smaller and smarter devices with more functionality requires larger batteries, which are currently the main power provider for such devices. However, batteries have a fixed energy density, limited lifetime and chemical side effect plus the fact that the total size of the WID is dominated by the battery size. These issues make the design very challenging or even impossible. A promising solution is to design batteryless WIDs scavenging energy from human or environment including but not limited to temperature variations through thermoelectric generator (TEG) devices, body movement through Piezoelectric devices, solar energy through miniature solar cells, radio-frequency (RF) harvesting through antenna etc. However, the energy provided by each of these harvesting mechanisms is very limited and thus cannot be used for complex tasks. Therefore, a more comprehensive solution is the use of different harvesting mechanisms on a single platform providing enough energy for more complex tasks without the need of batteries. In addition to this, complex tasks can be done by designing Integrated Circuits (ICs), as the main core and the most power consuming component of any WID, in an extremely low power mode by lowering the supply voltage utilizing low-voltage design techniques. Having the ICs operational at very low voltages, will enable designing battery-less WIDs for complex tasks, which will be discussed in details throughout this paper. In this paper, a path towards battery-less computing is drawn by looking at device circuit co-design for future system-on-chips (SoCs).
4-Acetyl-2-hydroxy-2,5-dimethylfuran-3(2H)-one
Authors: Akazaki Chiaki , Kawabata Shun , Nishino Hiroshi
Published: October 2016

The facile synthesis of 4-acetyl-2-hydroxy-2,5-dimethylfuran-3(2H)-one (4) was achieved by the Mn(OAc)3-mediated aerobic oxidation of 2,4-pentanedione or the direct reaction of Mn(acac)3 in AcOH-TFE at room temperature under a dried air stream.
A WSi–WSiN–Pt Metallization Scheme for Silicon Carbide-Based High Temperature Microsystems
Authors: Ngo Ha-Duong , Mukhopadhyay Biswajit , Mackowiak Piotr , Kröhnert Kevin , Ehrmann Oswin , Lang Klaus-Dieter
Published: October 2016

In this paper, we present and discuss our new WSi–WSiN–Pt metallization scheme for SiC-based microsystems for applications in harsh environments. Stoichiometric material WSi was selected as contact material for SiC. The diffusion barrier material WSiN was deposited from the same target as the contact material in order to limit the number of different chemical elements in the scheme. Our scheme was kept as simple as possible regarding the number of layers and chemical elements. Our scheme shows very good long-term stability and suitability for SiC-based microsystems. The experimental evaluation concept used here includes a combination of physical, electrical, and mechanical analysis techniques. This combined advance is necessary since modern physical analysis techniques still offer only limited sensitivity for detecting minimal changes in the metallization scheme.
Focused Ion Beam and Advanced Electron Microscopy for Minerals: Insights and Outlook from Bismuth Sulphosalts
Authors: Ciobanu Cristiana , Cook Nigel , Maunders Christian , Wade Benjamin , Ehrig Kathy
Published: October 2016

This paper comprises a review of the rapidly expanding application of nanoscale mineral characterization methodology to the study of ore deposits. Utilising bismuth sulphosalt minerals from a reaction front in a skarn assemblage as an example, we illustrate how a complex problem in ore petrology, can be approached at scales down to that of single atoms. We demonstrate the interpretive opportunities that can be realised by doing this for other minerals within their petrogenetic contexts. From an area defined as Au-rich within a sulphosalt-sulphide assemblage, and using samples prepared on a Focused Ion Beam–Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) platform, we identify mineral species and trace the evolution of their intergrowths down to the atomic scale. Our approach progresses from a petrographic and trace element study of a larger polished block, to high-resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and High Angle Annular Dark Field (HAADF) Scanning-TEM (STEM) studies. Lattice-scale heterogeneity imaged in HAADF STEM mode is expressed by changes in composition of unit cell slabs followed by nanoparticle formation and their growth into “veins”. We report a progressive transition from sulphosalt species which host lattice-bound Au (neyite, lillianite homologues; Pb-Bi-sulphosalts), to those that cannot accept Au (aikinite). This transition acts as a crystal structural barrier for Au. Fine particles of native gold track this progression over the scale of several hundred microns, leading to Au enrichment at the reaction front defined by an increase in the Cu gradient (several wt %), and abrupt changes in sulphosalt speciation from Pb-Bi-sulphosalts to aikinite. Atom-scale resolution imaging in HAADF STEM mode allows for the direct visualisation of the three component slabs in the neyite crystal structure, one of the largest and complex sulphosalts of boxwork-type. We show for the first time the presence of aikinite nanoparticles a few nanometres in size, occurring on distinct (111)PbS slabs in the neyite. This directly explains the non-stoichiometry of this phase, particularly with respect to Cu. Such non-stoichiometry is discussed elsewhere as defining distinct mineral species. The interplay between modular crystal structures and trace element behaviour, as discussed here for Au and Cu, has applications for other mineral systems. These include the incorporation and release of critical metals in sulphides, heavy elements (U, Pb, W) in iron oxides, the distribution of rare earth elements (REE), Y, and chalcophile elements (Mo, As) in calcic garnets, and the identification of nanometre-sized particles containing daughter products of radioactive decay in ores, concentrates, and tailings.
Structurally Related Monoterpenes p-Cymene, Carvacrol and Thymol Isolated from Essential Oil from Leaves of Lippia sidoides Cham. (Verbenaceae) Protect Mice against Elastase-Induced Emphysema
Authors: Games Ellen , Guerreiro Marina , Santana Fernanda , Pinheiro Nathalia , De Oliveira Emerson , Lopes Fernanda , Olivo Clarice , Tibério Iolanda , Martins Mílton , Lago João , Prado Carla
Published: October 2016

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by irreversible airflow obstruction and inflammation. Natural products, such as monoterpenes, displayed anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities and can be used as a source of new compounds to COPD treatment. Our aim was to evaluate, in an elastase-induced pulmonary emphysema in mice, the effects of and underlying mechanisms of three related natural monoterpenes (p-cymene, carvacrol and thymol) isolated from essential oil from leaves Lippia sidoides Cham. (Verbenaceae). Methods: Mices received porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) and were treated with p-cymene, carvacrol, thymol or vehicle 30 min later and again on 7th, 14th and 28th days. Lung inflammatory profile and histological sections were evaluated. Results: In the elastase-instilled animals, the tested monoterpenes reduced alveolar enlargement, macrophages and the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-17 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and collagen fibers, MMP-9 and p-65-NF-κB-positive cells in lung parenchyma (p < 0.05). All treatments attenuated levels of 8-iso-PGF2α but only thymol was able to reduced exhaled nitric oxide (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Monoterpenes p-cymene, carvacrol and thymol reduced lung emphysema and inflammation in mice. No significant differences among the three monoterpenes treatments were found, suggesting that the presence of hydroxyl group in the molecular structure of thymol and carvacrol do not play a central role in the anti-inflammatory effects.
Improved Production and Antitumor Properties of Triterpene Acids from Submerged Culture of Ganoderma lingzhi
Authors: Wang Xiao-Ling , Ding Zhong-Yang , Liu Gao-Qiang , Yang Hailong , Zhou Guo-Ying
Published: October 2016

Triterpene acids (TAs) are the major bioactive constituents in the medicinal fungus Ganoderma lingzhi. However, fermentative production of TAs has not been optimized for commercial use, and whether the TAs isolated from G. lingzhi submerged culture mycelia possess antitumor activity needs to be further proven. In this study, enhanced TA yield and productivity were attained with G. lingzhi using response surface methodology. The interactions of three variables were studied using a Box-Benhnken design, namely initial pH, dissolved oxygen (DO) and fermentation temperature. The optimum conditions were an initial pH of 5.9, 20.0% DO and 28.6 °C. These conditions resulted in a TA yield of 308.1 mg/L in a 5-L stirred bioreactor. Furthermore, the optimized conditions were then successfully scaled up to a production scale of 200 L, and maximum TA production and productivity of 295.3 mg/L and 49.2 mg/L/day were achieved, which represented 80.9% and 111.5% increases, respectively, compared with the non-optimized conditions. Additionally, the triterpene acid extract (TAE) from G. lingzhi mycelia was found to be cytotoxic to the SMMC-7721 and SW620 cell lines in vitro, and the TAE exhibited dose-dependent antitumor activity against the solid tumor sarcoma 180 in vivo. Chemical analysis revealed that the key active triterpene compounds, ganoderic acid T and ganoderic acid Me, predominated in the extract.
High-Pressure Design of Advanced BN-Based Materials
Authors: Kurakevych Oleksandr , Solozhenko Vladimir
Published: October 2016

The aim of the present review is to highlight the state of the art in high-pressure design of new advanced materials based on boron nitride. Recent experimental achievements on the governing phase transformation, nanostructuring and chemical synthesis in the systems containing boron nitride at high pressures and high temperatures are presented. All these developments allowed discovering new materials, e.g., ultrahard nanocrystalline cubic boron nitride (nano-cBN) with hardness comparable to diamond, and superhard boron subnitride B13N2. Thermodynamic and kinetic aspects of high-pressure synthesis are described based on the data obtained by in situ and ex situ methods. Mechanical and thermal properties (hardness, thermoelastic equations of state, etc.) are discussed. New synthetic perspectives, combining both soft chemistry and extreme pressure–temperature conditions are considered.
Effects of Saponins on Lipid Metabolism: A Review of Potential Health Benefits in the Treatment of Obesity
Authors: Marrelli Mariangela , Conforti Filomena , Araniti Fabrizio , Statti Giancarlo
Published: October 2016

Obesity is one of the greatest public health problems. This complex condition has reached epidemic proportions in many parts of the world, and it constitutes a risk factor for several chronic disorders, such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. In the last few decades, several studies dealt with the potential effects of natural products as new safe and effective tools for body weight control. Saponins are naturally-occurring surface-active glycosides, mainly produced by plants, whose structure consists of a sugar moiety linked to a hydrophobic aglycone (a steroid or a triterpene). Many pharmacological properties have been reported for these compounds, such as anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant, hypocholesterolemic, hypoglycemic, antifungal and cytotoxic activities. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of recent studies about the anti-obesity therapeutic potential of saponins isolated from medicinal plants. Results on the in vitro and in vivo activity of this class of phytochemicals are here presented and discussed. The most interesting findings about their possible mechanism of action and their potential health benefits in the treatment of obesity are reported, as well.
High Prevalence of Hyperhomocysteinemia and Its Association with Target Organ Damage in Chinese Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Ye Zengchun , Zhang Qunzi , Li Yan , Wang Cheng , Zhang Jun , Ma Xinxin , Peng Hui , Lou Tanqi
Published: October 2016

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is recognized as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, the prevalence of HHcy and its role in association with target organ damage in patients with chronickidney disease (CKD) are not well understood. This cross-sectional study included 1042 CKD patients who were admitted to our hospital. Patients were divided into two groups: hyperhomocysteinemia and normohomocysteinemia. Multivariable linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between plasma homocysteine and renal/cardiovascular parameters. The prevalence of HHcy in patients with CKD was 52.78%, and the prevalence in CKD stage 1, stage 2, stage 3, stage 4 and stage 5 patients was 10.73%, 29.22%, 58.71%, 75.23% and 83.75%, respectively. Patients with HHcy had higher incidences of renal damage, left ventricular hypertrophy, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and abnormal carotid intima-media thickness compared with patients with normohomocysteinemia (p < 0.05), while multivariable linear regression analyses showed plasma homocysteine was only associated with the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). eGFR, uric acid, albumin, gender, hemoglobin and calcium×phosphate were associated with levels of plasma homocysteine in these CKD patients. The prevalence of HHcy in Chinese patients with CKD was high, and serum homocysteine levels were associated with impaired renal function in these patients.
Capsaicin Supplementation Reduces Physical Fatigue and Improves Exercise Performance in Mice
Authors: Hsu Yi-Ju , Huang Wen-Ching , Chiu Chien-Chao , Liu Yan-Lin , Chiu Wan-Chun , Chiu Chun-Hui , Chiu Yen-Shuo , Huang Chi-Chang
Published: October 2016

Chili pepper is used as a food, seasoning and has been revered for its medicinal and health claims. It is very popular and is the most common spice worldwide. Capsaicin (CAP) is a major pungent and bioactive phytochemical in chili peppers. CAP has been shown to improve mitochondrial biogenesis and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. However, there is limited evidence around the effects of CAP on physical fatigue and exercise performance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential beneficial effects of CAP on anti-fatigue and ergogenic functions following physiological challenge. Female Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice from four groups (n = 8 per group) were orally administered CAP for 4 weeks at 0, 205, 410, and 1025 mg/kg/day, which were respectively designated the vehicle, CAP-1X, CAP-2X, and CAP-5X groups. The anti-fatigue activity and exercise performance was evaluated using forelimb grip strength, exhaustive swimming time, and levels of serum lactate, ammonia, glucose, BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatine kinase (CK) after a 15-min swimming exercise. The grip strength and exhaustive swimming time of the CAP-5X group were significantly higher than other groups. CAP supplementation dose-dependently reduced serum lactate, ammonia, BUN and CK levels, and increased glucose concentration after the 15-min swimming test. In addition, CAP also increased hepatic glycogen content, an important energy source for exercise. The possible mechanism was relevant to energy homeostasis and the physiological modulations by CAP supplementation. Therefore, our results suggest that CAP supplementation may have a wide spectrum of bioactivities for promoting health, performance improvement and fatigue amelioration.
Making the Transition from Student to Resident: A Method to Individualize a PGY1 Program
Authors: Thompson Amy , Nappi Jean , McKinzie Brian , Haney Jason , Pilch Nicole
Published: October 2016

A Postgraduate Year One (PGY1) resident’s concerns, limitations, and strengths may be self-identified early in the residency year but are reliant on self-awareness and insight. Program directors commonly find difficulty in identifying a resident’s specific knowledge deficits at the beginning of the program. A standardized resident examination can identify limitations early in training and these results can be incorporated into a tailored resident development plan. A total of sixty-two PGY1 residents completed the examination pre- and post-training over a five-year timespan. Scores increased in most core disciplines in each of the five years, indicating an overall improvement in resident knowledge throughout their PGY1 year. The approach of utilizing the scores for the resident’s individualized plan allows for customization to ensure that the resident addresses knowledge gaps where necessary.
Post-Fire Changes in Forest Biomass Retrieved by Airborne LiDAR in Amazonia
Authors: Sato Luciane , Gomes Vitor , Shimabukuro Yosio , Keller Michael , Arai Egidio , Dos-Santos Maiza , Brown Irving , Aragão Luiz
Published: October 2016

Fire is one of the main factors directly impacting Amazonian forest biomass and dynamics. Because of Amazonia’s large geographical extent, remote sensing techniques are required for comprehensively assessing forest fire impacts at the landscape level. In this context, Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) stands out as a technology capable of retrieving direct measurements of vegetation vertical arrangement, which can be directly associated with aboveground biomass. This work aims, for the first time, to quantify post-fire changes in forest canopy height and biomass using airborne LiDAR in western Amazonia. For this, the present study evaluated four areas located in the state of Acre, called Rio Branco, Humaitá, Bonal and Talismã. Rio Branco and Humaitá burned in 2005 and Bonal and Talismã burned in 2010. In these areas, we inventoried a total of 25 plots (0.25 ha each) in 2014. Humaitá and Talismã are located in an open forest with bamboo and Bonal and Rio Branco are located in a dense forest. Our results showed that even ten years after the fire event, there was no complete recovery of the height and biomass of the burned areas (p < 0.05). The percentage difference in height between control and burned sites was 2.23% for Rio Branco, 9.26% for Humaitá, 10.03% for Talismã and 20.25% for Bonal. All burned sites had significantly lower biomass values than control sites. In Rio Branco (ten years after fire), Humaitá (nine years after fire), Bonal (four years after fire) and Talismã (five years after fire) biomass was 6.71%, 13.66%, 17.89% and 22.69% lower than control sites, respectively. The total amount of biomass lost for the studied sites was 16,706.3 Mg, with an average loss of 4176.6 Mg for sites burned in 2005 and 2890 Mg for sites burned in 2010, with an average loss of 3615 Mg. Fire impact associated with tree mortality was clearly detected using LiDAR data up to ten years after the fire event. This study indicates that fire disturbance in the Amazon region can cause persistent above-ground biomass loss and subsequent reduction of forest carbon stocks. Continuous monitoring of burned forests is required for depicting the long-term recovery trajectory of fire-affected Amazonian forests.
A Shape-Adjusted Tridimensional Reconstruction of Cultural Heritage Artifacts Using a Miniature Quadrotor
Authors: Louiset Théo , Pamart Anthony , Gattet Eloi , Raharijaona Thibaut , De Luca Livio , Ruffier Franck
Published: October 2016

The innovative automated 3D modeling procedure presented here was used to reconstruct a Cultural Heritage (CH) object by means of an unmanned aerial vehicle. Using a motion capture system, a small low-cost quadrotor equipped with a miniature low-resolution Raspberry Pi camera module was accurately controlled in the closed loop mode and made to follow a trajectory around the artifact. A two-stage process ensured the accuracy of the 3D reconstruction process. The images taken during the first circular trajectory were used to draw the artifact’s shape. The second trajectory was smartly and autonomously adjusted to match the artifact’s shape, then it provides new pictures taken close to the artifact and, thus, greatly improves the final 3D reconstruction in terms of the completeness, accuracy and quickness, in particular where the artifact’s shape is complex. The results obtained here using close-range photogrammetric methods show that the process of automated 3D model reconstruction based on a robotized quadrotor using a motion capture system is a realistic approach, which could provide a suitable new digital conservation tool in the cultural heritage field.