bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Systems Thinking and the Human Family
Authors: Papero Daniel , Frost Randall , Havstad Laura , Noone Robert
Published: June 2018

Broadly speaking, natural systems thinking is defined as a way of thinking that endeavors to conceptualize the functioning of living organisms as dependent on predictable forces at work within and around them. Systems concepts help to bring the function of those variables and life forces into better view. Psychiatrist Murray Bowen over the course of several years and a major research project at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) developed a theory of the family as a system. He considered his theory a natural systems theory, “... designed to fit precisely with the principles of evolution and the human as an evolutionary being” The human family system, a network of relationships, linking each family member to every other, responds dynamically to its environment and the conditions to which all members must adapt. Each family member’s behavior influences that of every other to some degree. Although ideas of a general system theory and cybernetics were developing at the same time, Bowen reported that he knew nothing about those ideas at the time he developed his thinking. He believed that his systems orientation derived from his study of systems in nature and not from the “systems thinking” of the period. An emerging systems paradigm in biology and evolutionary thinking focuses on collective behavior and appears consistent in principle with Bowen’s thinking about the family. The collective behavior of the family unit cannot be understood by looking at the characteristics of the individuals who comprise it. The human family presents a highly integrated, interactive system of adaptation. Its roots extend along the path of hominid evolution and share common elements with other evolved collectivities. The complex development of the human brain appears to have co-evolved with the interactional processes of the family. The Bowen theory provides the potential for an integrative theory of human behavior reaching beyond the focus on the physiology and psychology of the individual to the operation and influence of the family system. Such an integrative theory can offer broader explanatory and investigative pathways for understanding physical, emotional, and social problems as they emerge in human activity.
Resilience of Critical Infrastructure Elements and Its Main Factors
Authors: Rehak David , Senovsky Pavel , Slivkova Simona
Published: June 2018

Resilience in a critical infrastructure system can be viewed as a quality that reduces vulnerability, minimizes the consequences of threats, accelerates response and recovery, and facilitates adaptation to a disruptive event. In this context, comprehensive knowledge of the environment and of the main factors whereby resilience is determined, limited, and affected can be said to represent the fundamental precondition for strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure elements. Based on this idea, the article defines the initial and functional conditions for building and strengthening the resilience of critical infrastructure elements, i.e., the resilience concept in a critical infrastructure system. Subsequently, factors determining the resilience of these elements are identified, both in terms of technical resilience (i.e., robustness and recoverability) and organizational resilience (i.e., adaptability). In the final part of the article, these factors are presented in greater detail in the context of case studies focused on the electricity, gas, information and communications technology, and road transport sectors. Determination of these factors is examined with regard to the intensity of a disruptive event and the performance of the respective critical infrastructure element.
Uremic Toxin Clearance and Cardiovascular Toxicities
Authors: Mair Robert D. , Sirich Tammy L. , Meyer Timothy W.
Published: June 2018

Uremic solutes contribute to cardiovascular disease in renal insufficiency. In this review we describe the clearance of selected uremic solutes, which have been associated with cardiovascular disease. These solutes—indoxyl sulfate (IS), p-cresol sulfate (PCS), phenylacetylglutamine (PAG), trimethylamine-n-oxide (TMAO), and kynurenine—exemplify different mechanisms of clearance. IS and PCS are protein-bound solutes efficiently cleared by the native kidney through tubular secretion. PAG and TMAO are not protein-bound but are also cleared by the native kidney through tubular secretion, while kynurenine is not normally cleared by the kidney. Increases in the plasma levels of the normally secreted solutes IS, PCS, TMAO, and PAG in chronic kidney disease (CKD) are attributable to a reduction in their renal clearances. Levels of each of these potential toxins are even higher in patients on dialysis than in those with advanced chronic kidney disease, which can be accounted for in part by a low ratio of dialytic to native kidney clearance. The rise in plasma kynurenine in CKD and dialysis patients, by contrast, remains to be explained. Our ability to detect lower levels of the potential uremic cardiovascular toxins with renal replacement therapy may be limited by the intermittency of treatment, by increases in solute production, and by the presence of non-renal clearance. Reduction in the levels of uremic cardiovascular toxins may in the future be achieved more effectively by inhibiting their production.
Loop Replacement Enhances the Ancestral Antibacterial Function of a Bifunctional Scorpion Toxin
Authors: Zhang Shangfei , Gao Bin , Wang Xueli , Zhu Shunyi
Published: June 2018

On the basis of the evolutionary relationship between scorpion toxins targeting K+ channels (KTxs) and antibacterial defensins (Zhu S., Peigneur S., Gao B., Umetsu Y., Ohki S., Tytgat J. Experimental conversion of a defensin into a neurotoxin: Implications for origin of toxic function. Mol. Biol. Evol. 2014, 31, 546–559), we performed protein engineering experiments to modify a bifunctional KTx (i.e., weak inhibitory activities on both K+ channels and bacteria) via substituting its carboxyl loop with the structurally equivalent loop of contemporary defensins. As expected, the engineered peptide (named MeuTXKα3-KFGGI) remarkably improved the antibacterial activity, particularly on some Gram-positive bacteria, including several antibiotic-resistant opportunistic pathogens. Compared with the unmodified toxin, its antibacterial spectrum also enlarged. Our work provides a new method to enhance the antibacterial activity of bifunctional scorpion venom peptides, which might be useful in engineering other proteins with an ancestral activity.
Hydrogen-Rich Water and Lactulose Protect Against Growth Suppression and Oxidative Stress in Female Piglets Fed Fusarium Toxins Contaminated Diets
Authors: Zheng Weijiang , Ji Xu , Zhang Qing , Du Wenchao , Wei Quanwei , Yao Wen
Published: June 2018

The objective of the current experiment was to evaluate whether hydrogen-rich water (HRW) or lactulose (LAC) could protect against the adverse effects of Fusarium mycotoxins-contaminated diet on the growth performance and antioxidant status in weaning piglets. A total of 24 individually housed female piglets were randomly assigned to receive four treatments for 25 days (six pigs/treatment): uncontaminated basal diet (negative control), mycotoxin-contaminated (MC) diet, MC diet + HRW (MC + HRW) and MC diet + LAC (MC + LAC). The plasma hydrogen levels before and after 2 h hydrogen-free water/HRW administration were detected at day 21, and the liver hydrogen levels were detected at the end of the experiment. Serum hormones related to appetite regulation, and serum and liver oxidant and antioxidant status were also measured at the end of the experiment. Results showed that both HRW and LAC treatments significantly attenuated the reduction of average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) caused by Fusarium mycotoxins. LAC administration increased the hydrogen concentrations in plasma and liver. HRW treated group had higher plasma hydrogen levels than the MC group. Compared with the NC group, the MC group had significantly increased serum peptide YY (PYY) and cholecystokinin (CCK) levels. Interestingly, both HRW and LAC administrations had a lower reduced serum PYY and CKK levels. Most importantly, oral administration of HRW and LAC attenuated the Fusarium mycotoxins-induced oxidative stress. In conclusion, oral administration of hydrogen-rich water or lactulose could both protect against the growth reduction and oxidative damage caused by Fusarium mycotoxins.
Inhibition of Hepatitis E Virus Spread by the Natural Compound Silvestrol
Authors: Glitscher Mirco , Himmelsbach Kiyoshi , Woytinek Kathrin , Johne Reimar , Reuter Andreas , Spiric Jelena , Schwaben Luisa , Grünweller Arnold , Hildt Eberhard
Published: June 2018

Every year, there are about 20 Mio hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections and 60,000 deaths that are associated with HEV worldwide. At the present, there exists no specific therapy for HEV. The natural compound silvestrol has a potent antiviral effect against the (−)-strand RNA-virus Ebola virus, and also against the (+)-strand RNA viruses Corona-, Picorna-, and Zika virus. The inhibitory effect on virus spread is due to an inhibition of the DEAD-box RNA helicase eIF4A, which is required to unwind structured 5′-untranslated regions (UTRs). This leads to an impaired translation of viral RNA. The HEV (+)-strand RNA genome contains a 5′-capped, short 5′-UTR. This study aims to analyze the impact of silvestrol on the HEV life cycle. Persistently infected A549 cells were instrumental. This study identifies silvestrol as a potent inhibitor of the release of HEV infectious viral particles. This goes along with a strongly reduced HEV capsid protein translation, retention of viral RNA inside the cytoplasm, and without major cytotoxic effects. Interestingly, in parallel silvestrol affects the activity of the antiviral major vault protein (MVP) by translocation from the cytoplasm to the perinuclear membrane. These data further characterize the complex antiviral activity of silvestrol and show silvestrol’s broad spectrum of function, since HEV is a virus without complex secondary structures in its genome, but it is still affected.
Preclinical Testing of an Oncolytic Parvovirus in Ewing Sarcoma: Protoparvovirus H-1 Induces Apoptosis and Lytic Infection In Vitro but Fails to Improve Survival In Vivo
Authors: Lacroix Jeannine , Kis Zoltán , Josupeit Rafael , Schlund Franziska , Stroh-Dege Alexandra , Frank-Stöhr Monika , Leuchs Barbara , Schlehofer Jörg R. , Rommelaere Jean , Dinsart Christiane
Published: June 2018

About 70% of all Ewing sarcoma (EWS) patients are diagnosed under the age of 20 years. Over the last decades little progress has been made towards finding effective treatment approaches for primarily metastasized or refractory Ewing sarcoma in young patients. Here, in the context of the search for novel therapeutic options, the potential of oncolytic protoparvovirus H-1 (H-1PV) to treat Ewing sarcoma was evaluated, its safety having been proven previously tested in adult cancer patients and its oncolytic efficacy demonstrated on osteosarcoma cell cultures. The effects of viral infection were tested in vitro on four human Ewing sarcoma cell lines. Notably evaluated were effects of the virus on the cell cycle and its replication efficiency. Within 24 h after infection, the synthesis of viral proteins was induced. Efficient H-1PV replication was confirmed in all four Ewing sarcoma cell lines. The cytotoxicity of the virus was determined on the basis of cytopathic effects, cell viability, and cell lysis. These in vitro experiments revealed efficient killing of Ewing sarcoma cells by H-1PV at a multiplicity of infection between 0.1 and 5 plaque forming units (PFU)/cell. In two of the four tested cell lines, significant induction of apoptosis by H-1PV was observed. H-1PV thus meets all the in vitro criteria for a virus to be oncolytic towards Ewing sarcoma. In the first xenograft experiments, however, although an antiproliferative effect of intratumoral H-1PV injection was observed, no significant improvement of animal survival was noted. Future projects aiming to validate parvovirotherapy for the treatment of pediatric Ewing sarcoma should focus on combinatorial treatments and will require the use of patient-derived xenografts and immunocompetent syngeneic animal models.
Climate Trends Impact on the Snowfall Regime in Mediterranean Mountain Areas: Future Scenario Assessment in Sierra Nevada (Spain)
Authors: Pérez-Palazón María José , Pimentel Rafael , Polo María José
Published: June 2018

Snow constitutes a key component of the water cycle, which is directly affected by changes in climate. Mountainous regions, especially those located in semiarid environments, are highly vulnerable to shifts from snowfall to rainfall. This study evaluates the influence of future climate scenarios on the snowfall regime in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, an Alpine/Mediterranean climate region in southern Spain. Precipitation and temperature projections from two future climate scenarios representative concentration pathway (RCP) 4.5 and RCP 8.5, Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (AR5 IPCC)) were used to estimate the projected evolution of the snowfall regime on both annual and decadal scales during the period of 2006–2100. Specific snowfall descriptors of torrentiality are also analyzed. A general decrease of the annual snowfall was estimated, with a significant trend that ranged from 0.21 to 0.55 (mm·year−1)·year−1. These changes are dependent on the scenario and region in the study area. However, the major impact of future climate scenarios on the snowfall regime relates to an increased torrentiality of snowfall occurrence, with a decreased trend of the annual number of snowfall days (RCP 4.5: −0.068 (days·year−1)·year−1 and RCP 8.5: −0.111 (days·year−1)·year−1) and an increased trend in the annual mean snowfall intensity (RCP 4.5: 0.006 (mm·days−1)·year−1 and RCP8.5: 0.01 (mm·days−1)·year−1)) under both scenarios. This enhanced torrentiality is heterogeneously distributed, with the most semiarid region, which is currently the one least influenced by snow, being the region most affected within the study area.
Trends in Precipitation and Temperatures in Eastern Slovakia (1962–2014)
Authors: Zeleňáková Martina , Purcz Pavol , Blišťan Peter , Vranayová Zuzana , Hlavatá Helena , Diaconu Daniel Constantin , Portela Maria Manuela
Published: June 2018

In this paper, the results of trend analysis applied to precipitation and temperature monthly data for the period from 1962 to 2014 is presented for the hydrological year (from November to October) in sixteen climatic stations in Eastern Slovakia. The topography of this part of the country is very diverse and it affects the climate. The Mann-Kendall non-parametric test coupled with Sen’s slope was applied to identify the significant long-term climatic trends, as well as the magnitude of those trends. According to the present study, all climatic stations in Eastern Slovakia show a positive trend in temperature during the year and almost all of them show a significant positive annual trend in temperature. Seasonal and monthly trend analyses produced the same results. Trends in temperature are always positive during winter and spring. Trends in precipitation are also mostly positive during winter and spring, although some negative trends were also found during these seasons. The spatial distribution of precipitation and temperature trends was modelled in ArcGIS using geostatistical analysis. Abrupt positive trend shifts in annual precipitation and temperature time series were also investigated. An abrupt shift in precipitation at the highest climatic station, Lomnický peak, began around 1985 (+). Abrupt shifts in temperature began around 1970 (+) at the presented climatic stations. The extremity of the climate is confirmed by an analysis of the trends in wet and dry spells. Trends showed increasing tendencies in medium- and long-term wet spells.
A Comparative Study of Groundwater Level Forecasting Using Data-Driven Models Based on Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Gong Yicheng , Wang Zhongjing , Xu Guoyin , Zhang Zixiong
Published: June 2018

The reliable and accurate prediction of groundwater levels is important to improve water-use efficiency in the development and management of water resources. Three nonlinear time-series intelligence hybrid models were proposed to predict groundwater level fluctuations through a combination of ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) and data-driven models (i.e., artificial neural networks (ANN), support vector machines (SVM) and adaptive neuro fuzzy inference systems (ANFIS)), respectively. The prediction capability of EEMD-ANN, EEMD-SVM, and EEMD-ANFIS hybrid models was investigated using a monthly groundwater level time series collected from two observation wells near Lake Okeechobee in Florida. The statistical parameters correlation coefficient (R), normalized mean square error (NMSE), root mean square error (RMSE), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NS), and Akaike information criteria (AIC) were used to assess the performance of the EEMD-ANN, EEMD-SVM and EEMD-ANFIS models. The results achieved from the EEMD-ANN, EEMD-SVM and EEMD-ANFIS models were compared with those from the ANN, SVM and ANFIS models. The three hybrid models (i.e., EEMD-ANN, EEMD-SVM, and EEMD-ANFIS) proved to be applicable to forecast the groundwater level fluctuations. The values of the statistical parameters indicated that the EEMD-ANFIS and EEMD-SVM models achieved better prediction results than the EEMD-ANN model. Meanwhile, the three models coupled with EEMD were found have better prediction results than the models that were not. The findings from this study indicate that the proposed nonlinear time-series intelligence hybrid models could improve the prediction capability in forecasting groundwater level fluctuations, and serve as useful and helpful guidelines for the management of sustainable water resources.
An unusual thionyl chloride-promoted C−C bond formation to obtain 4,4'-bipyrazolones
Authors: Eller Gernot A , Vilkauskaitė Gytė , Šačkus Algirdas , Martynaitis Vytas , Mamuye Ashenafi Damtew , Pace Vittorio , Holzer Wolfgang
Published: June 2018

Dialkyl 5,5'-dioxo-4,4'-bipyrazole-4,4'-dicarboxylates are readily obtained by the reaction of 5-hydroxypyrazole-4-carboxylates in refluxing thionyl chloride. The obtained diesters can be transformed into the corresponding 4,4'-bipyrazoles via alkaline hydrolysis and subsequent decarboxylation. Detailed NMR spectroscopic investigations (1H, 13C, 15N) were undertaken with all products prepared. Moreover, the structure of a representative 5,5'-dioxo-4,4'-bipyrazole-4,4'-dicarboxylate was confirmed by X-ray crystal structure analysis.
THE PARETO SALES NETWORK ASSET: A NETWORKED POWER PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Ferdinand Augusty Tae , Killa Maklon Felipus
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this research is to develop a conceptual model dealing the relationship between EO and sales growth performance by proposing the Pareto sales network asset as a reliable bridge for mediating EO and sales growth performance in SMEs in Indonesia. Lending the network theory and the Pareto concept, we propose a concept on The Pareto sales network asset as a strategic asset for enhancing sales growth performance. The main finding of this study is that an entrepreneurial oriented firm who success in accessing the Pareto sales network which by nature is outside of the firm will get the networked power. Having, maintaining and using the networked power getting from a Pareto sales network asset will be a key asset for enhancing sales growth performance. The acceptance of the hypotheses on the role of the Pareto sales network asset demonstrated the importance of this strategic asset for SMEs in enhancing performance.
Statistical Investigation of Supersonic Downflows in the Transition Region above Sunspots
Authors: Samanta Tanmoy , Tian Hui , Choudhary Debi Prasad
Published: June 2018

Downflows at supersonic speeds have been observed in the transition region (TR) above sunspots for more than three decades. These downflows are often seen in different TR spectral lines above sunspots. We have performed a statistical investigation of these downflows using a large sample that was missing previously. The Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) has provided a wealth of observational data of sunspots at high spatial and spectral resolutions in the past few years. We have identified 60 data sets obtained with IRIS raster scans. Using an automated code, we identified the locations of strong downflows within these sunspots. We found that around 80% of our sample shows supersonic downflows in the Si iv 1403 Å line. These downflows mostly appear in the penumbral regions, though some of them are found in the umbrae. We also found that almost half of these downflows show signatures in chromospheric lines. Furthermore, a detailed spectral analysis was performed by selecting a small spectral window containing the O iv 1400/1401 Å and Si iv 1403 Å lines. Six Gaussian functions were simultaneously fitted to these three spectral lines and their satellite lines associated with the supersonic downflows. We calculated the intensity, Doppler velocity, and line width for these lines. Using the O iv 1400/1401 Å line ratio, we find that the downflow components are around one order of magnitude less dense than the regular components. Results from our statistical analysis suggest that these downflows may originate from the corona and that they are independent of the background TR plasma.
Chandra Survey of Nearby Galaxies: Testing the Accretion Model for Low-luminosity AGNs
Authors: She Rui , Ho Luis C. , Feng Hua , Cui Can
Published: June 2018

From a Chandra sample of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) in nearby galaxies, we find that for low-luminosity AGNs, either the intrinsic absorption column density, or the fraction of absorbed AGNs, positively scales with the Eddington ratio for L
bol/L
Edd ≲ 10−2. Such a behavior, along with the softness of the X-ray spectrum at low luminosities, is in good agreement with the picture that they are powered by hot accretion flows surrounding supermassive black holes. Numerical simulations find that outflows are inevitable with hot accretion flows, and the outflow rate is correlated with the innermost accretion rate in the low-luminosity regime. This agrees well with our results, suggesting that the X-ray absorption originates from, or is associated with, the outflow material. Gas and dust on larger scales may also produce the observed correlation. Future correlation analyses may help differentiate the two scenarios.
Multiple Stellar Flybys Sculpting the Circumstellar Architecture in RW Aurigae
Authors: Rodriguez Joseph E. , Loomis Ryan , Cabrit Sylvie , Haworth Thomas J. , Facchini Stefano , Dougados Catherine , Booth Richard A. , Jensen Eric L. N. , Clarke Cathie J. , Stassun Keivan G. , Dent William R. F. , Pety Jérôme
Published: June 2018

We present high-resolution ALMA Band 6 and 7 observations of the tidally disrupted protoplanetary disks of the RW Aurigae binary. Our observations reveal tidal streams in addition to the previously observed tidal arm around RW Aur A. The observed configuration of tidal streams surrounding RW Aur A and B is incompatible with a single star–disk tidal encounter, suggesting that the RW Aurigae system has undergone multiple flyby interactions. We also resolve the circumstellar disks around RW Aur A and B, with CO radii of 58 au and 38 au consistent with tidal truncation, and 2.5 times smaller dust emission radii. The disks appear misaligned by 12° or 57°. Using new photometric observations from the American Association of Variable Star Observers (AAVSO) and the All Sky Automated Survey for SuperNovae (ASAS-SN) archives, we have also identified an additional dimming event of the primary that began in late 2017 and is currently ongoing. With over a century of photometric observations, we are beginning to explore the same spatial scales as ALMA.
High-resolution He i 10830 Å Narrowband Imaging for an M-class Flare. II. Multiple Hot Channels: Their Origin and Destination
Authors: Wang Ya , Su Yingna , Shen Jinhua , Yang Xu , Cao Wenda , Ji Haisheng
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we report our second-part result for the M1.8 class flare on 2012 July 5, with an emphasis on the initiation process for the flare-associated filament eruption. The data set consists of high-resolution narrowband images in He i 10830 Å and broadband images in TiO 7057 Å taken at Big Bear Solar Observatory with the 1.6 m aperture Goode Solar Telescope. EUV images in different passbands observed by the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory are used to distinguish hot plasma from cool plasma structures during the flare process. High-resolution 10830 Å images clearly show that, below the horizontal fibrils, which correspond to the filament’s spine in full-disk Hα images, a sheared arch filament system (AFS) lies across the penumbra and surrounding satellite sunspots, between which continuous shearing motion is observed. Before the eruption, three microflares occurred successively and were followed by the appearance of three EUV hot channels. Two hot channels erupted, producing two flaring sites and two major peaks in GOES soft X-ray light curves; however, one hot channel’s eruption failed. The 10830 Å imaging enables us to trace the first two hot channels to their very early stage, which is signified by the rising of the AFS after the first two precursors. Continuous flux emergence and localized flare-associated cancellation are observed under the AFS. In addition, EUV ejections were observed during the formation of the EUV hot channels. These observations support the fact that the hot channels are the result of magnetic reconnections during precursors.
The Statistical Properties of Solar Wind Temperature Parameters Near 1 au
Authors: Wilson III Lynn B. , Stevens Michael L. , Kasper Justin C. , Klein Kristopher G. , Maruca Bennett A. , Bale Stuart D. , Bowen Trevor A. , Pulupa Marc P. , Salem Chadi S.
Published: June 2018

We present a long-duration (∼10 yr) statistical analysis of the temperatures, plasma betas, and temperature ratios for the electron, proton, and alpha-particle populations observed by the Wind spacecraft near 1 au. The mean(median) scalar temperatures are T

e,tot = 12.2(11.9) eV, T

p,tot = 12.7(8.6) eV, and T

α,tot = 23.9(10.8) eV. The mean(median) total plasma betas are β

e,tot = 2.31(1.09), β

p,tot = 1.79(1.05), and β

α,tot = 0.17(0.05). The mean(median) temperature ratios are (T

e
/T

p
)tot = 1.64(1.27), (T

e
/T

α
)tot = 1.24(0.82), and (T

α
/T

p
)tot = 2.50(1.94). We also examined these parameters during time intervals that exclude interplanetary (IP) shocks, times within the magnetic obstacles (MOs) of interplanetary coronal mass ejections (ICMEs), and times that exclude MOs. The only times that show significant alterations to any of the parameters examined are those during MOs. In fact, the only parameter that does not show a significant change during MOs is the electron temperature. Although each parameter shows a broad range of values, the vast majority are near the median. We also compute particle–particle collision rates and compare to effective wave–particle collision rates. We find that, for reasonable assumptions of wave amplitude and occurrence rates, the effect of wave–particle interactions on the plasma is equal to or greater than the effect of Coulomb collisions. Thus, wave–particle interactions should not be neglected when modeling the solar wind.
Probing Signatures of a Distant Planet around the Young T-Tauri Star CI Tau Hosting a Possible Hot Jupiter
Authors: Konishi Mihoko , Hashimoto Jun , Hori Yasunori
Published: June 2018

We search for signatures of a distant planet around the two million-year-old classical T-Tauri star CI Tau hosting a hot-Jupiter candidate (

) in an eccentric orbit (e ∼ 0.3). To probe the existence of an outer perturber, we reanalyzed 1.3 mm dust continuum observations of the protoplanetary disk around CI Tau obtained by the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA). We found a gap structure at ∼0.″8 in CI Tau’s disk. Our visibility fitting assuming an axisymmetric surface brightness profile suggested that the gap is located at a deprojected radius of 104.5 ± 1.6 au and has a width of 36.9 ± 2.9 au. The brightness temperature around the gap was calculated to be ∼2.3 K lower than that of the ambient disk. Gap-opening mechanisms such as secular gravitational instability (GI) and dust trapping can explain the gap morphology in the CI Tau disk. The scenario that an unseen planet created the observed gap structure cannot be ruled out, although the coexistence of an eccentric hot Jupiter and a distant planet around the young CI Tau would be challenging for gravitational scattering scenarios. The mass of the planet was estimated to be between ∼0.25 M
Jupiter and ∼0.8 M
Jupiter from the gap width and depth (

) in the modeled surface brightness image, which is lower than the current detection limits of high-contrast direct imaging. The young classical T-Tauri CI Tau may be a unique system for exploring the existence of a potential distant planet as well as the origin of an eccentric hot Jupiter.
Development and Evaluation of an Epidural Analgesia Workshop for Senior Nursing Students
Authors: Luctkar-Flude Marian , Wilson Rosemary A. , Sears Kim , Pulling Cheryl , Hopkins-Rosseel Diana , Jaeger Melanie
Published: June 2018

Background:

Most prelicensure nursing students receive little to no training in providing care for patients who receive epidural analgesia, despite exposure in clinical settings and the potential for devastating adverse effects. To develop and pilot an epidural workshop for senior nursing students using standardized patients (SPs), and to evaluate feasibility and learner outcomes.

Method:

A 4-hour epidural workshop consisted of a large group lecture and demonstration, small-group practice scenarios, and individual learner evaluation with SPs. Learning outcomes were evaluated using a performance checklist and critical thinking rubric, and pre- and posttests.

Results:

Participants scored well on the performance-based evaluation (mean score of 86% items performed correctly) and rated the workshop highly. However, learners and instructors made several recommendations for improving the learning module for future sessions.

Conclusion:

This pilot project demonstrated that an epidural analgesia workshop using SPs is feasible and results in positive learning outcomes and high satisfaction with senior nursing students. [
J Nurs Educ.
2018;57(6):359–365.]
Chemical characterization of commercial and single-variety avocado oils
Authors: Fernandes G. D. , Gómez-Coca R. B. , Pérez-Camino M. C. , Moreda W. , Barrera-Arellano D.
Published: June 2018

This work aimed to determine the major and minor compounds of avocado oils. Mono-varietal oils from the Bacon, Fuerte, Hass, and Pinkerton cultivars were obtained by means of an Abencor® system, while commercial oils from Brazil, Chile, Ecuador and New Zealand were purchased locally. The content of triacylglycerols, fatty acids, aliphatic and terpenic alcohols, desmethyl- methyl- and dimethyl-sterols, squalene and tocopherols were determined. The main triacylglycerols were those with ECN48. In addition, the oleic, palmitic and linoleic acids prevailed. Desmethyl-sterols were the principal minor compounds. Low amounts of aliphatic and terpenic alcohols were also found. Squalene concentrations were higher in Bacon, Fuerte and Pinkerton oils than in the other oils. The most abundant tocopherol was α-tocopherol. Partial least squares discriminant analysis made it possible to express the differences among the samples. To summarize, this work brings a different approach to the complete characterization of avocado oil.
Extraction of bacaba (Oenocarpus bacaba) oil with supercritical CO2: Global yield isotherms, fatty acid composition, functional quality, oxidative stability, spectroscopic profile and antioxidant activity
Authors: Pinto R. H.H. , Sena C. , Santos O. V. , Da Costa W. A. , Rodrigues A. M.C. , Carvalho Junior R. N.
Published: June 2018

Bacaba is widely consumed by the Amazonian population, and is promising for the production of cooking oil. The objective of this research was to determine the parameters of bacaba oil extraction with supercritical CO2: the fatty acid composition, functional quality, oxidative stability, spectroscopic profile and antioxidant activity of the extracted oil. Extractions of bacaba (Oenocarpus bacaba) oil were performed with supercritical CO2 at temperatures of 40 and 60 ºC, with pressures varying from 120 to 420 bar. The highest mass yield was 60.39 ± 0.72% on a dry basis, obtained in the isotherm of 60 °C and 420 bar. Oleic acid was the major compound. The Infrared spectroscopic profile showed the predominance of unsaturated fatty acids. The results indicate that bacaba oil presents good functional quality.
Lipase-catalyzed transesterification of epoxidized soybean oil to prepare epoxy methyl esters
Authors: Liu W. , Duan F.
Published: June 2018

Epoxidized soybean oil methyl esters could be efficiently prepared with the transesterification of epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO) with a lower dosage of methanol using lipase Novozym 435 as catalyst. The optimum parameters were as follows: the molar ratio of 5:1 (methanol to ESBO), 5% Novozym 435 as catalyst, at 45 °C for 14 h, with a stirring speed of 600rpm, under which the epoxidized soybean oil methyl esters (ESBOME) could be obtained at a 95.7% yield. During the enzymatic transesterification process, the oxirane oxygen values were kept unchangeable, which indicated that excellent functional group tolerance could be achieved under such mild reaction conditions. In addition, the recyclability of the immobilized enzyme Novozym 435 in this transesterification process was examined and the results showed that the biocatalyst could be reused ten times without losing any reaction activity or selectivity. And the final products of ESBOME were also identified by IR and NMR analysis. The kinetic data obtained followed the Ping-Pong Bi mechanism model (Vmax = 6.132 mol·L-1min-1, Km,S = 0,0001 mol·L-1, Km, A = 796.148 mol·L-1, Ki, A = 0,0004 mol·L-1) with competitive inhibition by methanol.
Bioactive lipids, antiradical activity and stability of rosehip seed oil under thermal and photo-induced oxidation
Authors: Turan S. , Solak R. , Kiralan M. , Ramadan M. F.
Published: June 2018

In the present report, the fatty acids, tocopherols, and sterol profiles as well as the total phenolics and carotenoids of rosehip (Rosa canina) seed oil were determined. The major fatty acids in the oil were linoleic and linolenic acids, comprising 54.80% and 23.47% of the total fatty acids, respectively. Other bioactive lipids in the oil included total tocopherols (786.3 mg/kg), total phenolics (37.97 mg/kg) and total carotenoids (218.8 mg/kg). Rosehip oil was rich in γ-tocopherol (472.0 mg/kg) and β‑sitosterol (78.0% of total sterols). The DPPH· (2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity of the oil showed 1.08 mg α-tocopherol/g oil and 4.18 μmol TEAC (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity)/g oil, respectively. The ABTS+ (2,2′-Azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging activity of the oil showed 1.00 mg α-tocopherol/g oil and 3.02 μmol TEAC/g oil, respectively. The induction period (IP) of the oil was 3.46 h for the Rancimat test (110 °C), while the IP of oil in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test (100-150 °C) ranged between 0.26 and 58.06 min. The oxidative stability of the oil was determined under thermal and photo oxidation conditions. The progression of oxidation at 30 °C (under UV light) and at 60 °C (in the dark) was followed by recording the ultraviolet absorption (K232 and K270) and degradation of total tocopherols, γ-tocopherol and total carotenoids. Rapid deterioration occurred in the oil stored under UV light conditions. The information provided in the present work is of importance for using rosehip seed oil in different food and non-food applications.
Chemical composition and seasonal changes in the fatty acid profile of Uruguayan “Colonia” Cheeses
Authors: Hirigoyen D. , De los Santos R. , Calvo M. F. , González-Revello A. , Constantin M.
Published: June 2018

The basic chemical composition and the fatty acid (FA) profile of Uruguayan Colonia cheese, consumed in the Mercosur region, were determined. 24 cheeses from different dairy farms: 10 elaborated in autumn and 14 in spring, were analyzed. Those cheeses are made from cow´s milk, whose diet was composed of 50% pasture system, 25% concentrate, and 25% silage reserves. The cheese making and ripening time were similar. Seasonal differences emerged in the profiles of saturated FA (SFA), unsaturated FA (UFA) and polyunsaturated FA (PUFA). The seasonal comparation of polyunsaturated FA (PUFA) as well as the CLA isomer such as C18:2 t10c12 showed significant differences (p < 0.05). CLA isomer such as C18:2 c9t11, showed no differences (p > 0.05). The atherogenesis index (AI) = 2.21 and thrombogenicity (IT) = 2.84, were calculated and discussed.
Modeling of volatile and phenolic compounds and optimization of the process conditions for obtaining balanced extra virgin olive oils
Authors: Vidal A. M. , Alcalá S. , Ocaña M. T. , De Torres A. , Espínola F. , Moya M.
Published: June 2018

The main objective of this paper is to obtain extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) which are balanced in volatile and phenolic compounds. An experimental design was performed and response surface methodology was applied. The factors for malaxation were: temperature 20-40 °C, time 30-90 min, and hole diameter of hammer-crusher 4.5-6.5 mm. The results show that high temperatures and small hole diameter must be used in order to obtain a higher content in phenolic compounds, while for volatile compounds a low temperature and large hole diameter must be used. The models predict that the best and more balanced EVOO are obtained with the hole diameter of greater size and a medium-low temperature. Thus, for a hammer-crusher hole diameter of 6.5 mm 337 and 356 mg/kg total HPLC phenols were obtained for malaxation temperature of 20 and 25 °C, respectively and, likewise, 12.7 and 11.5 mg/kg total LOX volatiles.
Bioactive compounds and functional potential of pequi (Caryocar spp.), a native Brazilian fruit: a review
Authors: Torres L. R.O. , Santana F. C. , Shinagawa F. B. , Mancini-Filho J.
Published: June 2018

Pequi is an indigenous word that means “thorny covering” and is used to describe fruits from the Caryocar spp. These fruits are widely consumed as food and used in traditional medicine by Brazilians in the savannah (Cerrado biome) and the Amazon region. The fruit is rich in lipids, mainly oleic acid, and other bioactive substances including carotenoids, phenolics, and tocopherols. The oil extracted from the pulp or “almond” (seed) has a high local socioeconomic impact and is associated with nutritional and therapeutic benefits. A wide array of health benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial effects, improved cardiac function, as well as an increased lymphocyte-dependent immunity have been attributed to the pequi fruit, especially its pulp. This review provides a comprehensive overview on the edible parts of pequi fruits (pulp and almond), more specifically the oil produced from these parts, as a source of functional compounds with biological activity. Moreover, it considers the differences among the three more commercially-important species from the genus Caryocar.
Physiochemical characteristics, fatty acid profile and tocopherol composition of the oil from Camellia oleifera Abel cultivated in Henan, China
Authors: Hu J. B. , Yang G. L.
Published: June 2018

As a unique woody oil tree, Camellia oleifera Abel originates from southern China and is now being cultivated in central China, such as the southern Henan province. The aim of this work is to determine some physiochemical parameters, fatty acid profile and tocopherol composition of the Camellia oleifera seed oils harvested in southern Henan in the 2016 season. The lipid contents of the kernel are in the range of 28.39- 56.94% on dry matter. The acid value (AV), saponification value (SV), iodine value (IV), and refractive index of the oils are in the ranges: 0.22-5.17 mg KOH/g, 178.90-196.91 mg KOH/g, 82.0-87.1 g I2/100g, and 1.4667-1.4720 (nD25) , respectively. The main fatty acids are: palmitic 7.07-9.52%, palmitoleic 0.09-0.22%, stearic 1.45-2.94%, oleic 77.02-84.33%, linoleic 5.19-11.23%, linolenic 0.53-0.70% and arachidic 0.22-0.70%. The sn-2 fatty acid composition is: 84.36-91.33% oleic, 7.14-14.22% linoleic, and 0.89-1.96% others. The tocopherol content is in the range of 39.55-75.94 mg/100g oil, including mainly α-tocopherol (33.98-67.82 mg/100g) and γ-tocopherol (5.57- 8.27 mg/100g) when the oils are extracted with hexane; and 14.91-44.36 mg/100g, including mainly α-tocopherol (9.42-37.08 mg/100g) and γ-tocopherol (5.50-7.33 mg/100g) when the oils are extracted by ethyl ether. The physiochemical properties C. oleifera seed oils from southern Henan are similar to those from other districts of China.
MODELING AND FABRICATION OF A KINETIC SOLAR ENERGY-ABSORBING WINDOW AS A GREEN IDEA FOR SUSTAINABLE FUTURE BUILDINGS
Authors: Valinejadshoubi Masoud , Ghanizadehgrayli Mannan , Heidari Sahar
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION

Renewable versus nonrenewable energy sources and their respective environmental impacts have emerged as preeminent industrial, as well as environmental concerns. Negotiation between policies that promote economic development with those promoting conservationism has yielded promising opportunities for the future. These opportunities engage frameworks focused on economic directives while simultaneously considering the need for environmental directives. Buildings present a unique opportunity for sustainability as they represent the largest proportion of consumed energy, relative to other consumers reliant on the energy grid system. The largest source of energy expenditure in a modern building is through the heating and cooling system which facilitates and maintains a comfortable living temperature. By effectively implementing innovative approaches focused on energy preservation and overall reduction of consumption, it is possible to meet emission reduction goals and mitigate other adverse environmental conditions.

Windows play a vital role in energy consumption and overall maintenance of a comfortable temperature. Understandably, the construction and fabrication of windows are the primary means through which optimized temperatures are achieved. This occurs not only through heat and energy transference but also by providing a protective differential between the inside of the building and the harsh weather conditions of the outdoors. As such, appropriate widow design strategies not only enhance comfort but reduce overall energy consumption. This study seeks to evaluate double-skin windows in order to offer a solution to excessive energy consumption. The windows work by generating a natural ventilation system in summer and then by producing hot air in winter for year-round comfort that is economical. Since current double-skin windows fail to effectively provide ventilation during warm seasons, a kinetic double-skin window was proposed to address this problem and optimize the heating and cooling functions of the building. The results of this research are applicable to modern construction and can be implemented into current design structures.
MINNESOTA SUSTAINABLE BUILDING GUIDELINES: History, Effectiveness and Path for the Future
Authors: Graves Richard , Smith Patrick
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION

The Minnesota Sustainable Building Guidelines is a progressive sustainability program for state funded buildings which serves as a model for sustainability in Minnesota buildings. The program was created by the State of Minnesota in 2001 and developed by a team led by the Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR) at the University of Minnesota. Unlike other green building programs, it focuses on measured performance improvements, using a list of required metrics instead of a menu of potential options. The program is structured to provide a feedback loop to the building design, construction and operations industry in the state. Elements of the program are used through all phases of the development of state-funded buildings in Minnesota from pre-design through design, and construction and for ten years of operations. It is continually updated and improved in collaboration with state agencies and industry stakeholders and could serve as a model for localized green building programs.
EFFECT OF GREEN ROOF AGE ON RUNOFF WATER QUALITY IN PORTLAND, OREGON
Authors: Okita Jarrett , Poor Cara , Kleiss Jessica M. , Eckmann Ted
Published: June 2018

Green roofs have become a common method to increase water retention on-site in urban areas. However, the long-term water quality of runoff from green roofs is poorly understood. This study evaluated the water quality of stormwater runoff from a regular (non-vegetated) roof, a green roof installed 6 months previously, and a green roof installed 6 years ago in Portland, Oregon. Samples of runoff were taken during every rain event for 10 months, and analyzed for total phosphorus (TP), phosphate (PO3-4), total nitrogen (TN), nitrate (NO-3), ammonia (NH3), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn). Runoff from the green roofs had higher concentrations of TP and PO3-4 and lower concentrations of Zn compared to the regular roof. Average TP concentrations from the 6-year old roof and 6-month old roof were 6.3 and 14.6 times higher, respectively, than concentrations from the regular roof, and average PO3-4 concentrations from the 6-year old roof and 6-month old roof were 13.5 and 26.6 times higher, respectively, compared to the regular roof. Runoff from the 6-month old green roof had higher concentrations of TP and PO3-4 than the 6-year old green roof during the wet season, but lower concentrations during the dry season. The 6-month old green roof installations where receiving waters are sensitive or impaired may need additional treatment methods to reduce phosphorus levels. As green roofs age, water retention decreases and phosphorus leaching increases during the dry season.