bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethnomedicinal survey of plants used by local society in Poncokusumo district, Malang, East Java Province, Indonesia
Authors: Batoro Jati , Siswanto Dian
Published: August 2017

An ethnomedicinal survey was carried out in district Poncokusumo, Malang, East Java Province, Indonesia for documentation of important plants diversity and information from local society. The indigenous knowledge of traditional local societywas collected throught structural and open indept interview, direct observation and personal interviews during the research. To better acessesto the extractive activities and the utilization of the plant diversity by indigenous people. Plants with their correct nomenclature were arranged by vernacular name, family name, parts used, ethnomedicinal remedies and ethnomedical use. The determination and nomenclature of the listed plants were based on the Flora of Java.A Total of 181species plants (68 family) determinate of Tengger and Java people existing in the region. Family ethnomedicine plants that have large members includes Umbelliferae (3 species), Apocynaceae (4 species), Gramineae (6 species), Myrtaceae (7 species), Euphorbiaceae (8 species), Fabaceae (10 species), Zingiberaceae (10 species), Solanaceae (12 species) and Asteraceae (15 species).The number of plants used to treat more than 60 diseases. The treatment done by a medicine man or shaman from Tengger people by ritual treatment with called SuwukAsian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2017, 3(2): 158-167
Preparation of dahi from cow and buffalo skim milk with addition of mango (Mangifera indica) juice
Authors: Biswas Sawpna Rani , Kibria Sumya , Habib Md Rezwanul , Siddiki Mohammad Shohel Rana , Rashid Md Harun Ur
Published: August 2017

The aim of this research was evaluation of dahi prepared from cow and buffalo skim milk addition of mango juice. Four types of dahi were prepared from cows and buffalos skim milk which designated by A (cows skim milk), B (cows skim milk with 10% mango juice), C (buffalos skim milk) and D (buffalos skim milk with 10% mango juice). The quality of prepared dahi was measured by organoleptic, chemical and microbiological test. Smell and taste, body and consistency, colour and texture score of dahi improved due to adding mango juice to compare with their control group. The overall acceptability score of B and D sample were 85.67±1.53 and 81.67±4.04 which higher than both control group. From chemical analysis, it was found higher total solids in 10% mango juice containing B (202.0±0.20 g/kg) and D (196.0±0.49 g/kg) dahi samples than both control groups. Again, lower fat and protein contents found in 10% mango juice containing B and D dahi samples. Total viable count was found significantly higher in both 10% mango juice containing B and D dahi samples than both control groups. In conclusion, that addition of mango juice with cows skim milk dahi or buffalo skim milk dahi were both better in terms of organoleptic and chemical qualities more acceptable than plain skim milk dahi.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2017, 3(2): 191-197
Moringa leaf meal as natural feed additives on the growth performance and meat quality of commercial broiler chicken
Authors: Sarker Md Sazedul Karim , Rana Md Masud , Khatun Halima , Faruque Shakila , Sarker Nathu Ram , Sharmin Farhana , Islam Md Nazrul
Published: August 2017

A study was conducted to investigate the effect of dietary moringa leaf meal (MLM) as a natural alternative to antibiotic on the growth performance, meat quality and carcass yield of broiler chicken. A total of 270 day-old broiler chicks were randomly weighed and assigned to six dietary treatments having 45 birds in each. Each dietary treatment had three replicates of 15 birds and was reared in floor pens. Chicks were distributed in 4 different inclusion levels of MLM in diets; 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0% with 2 control diets negative and positive. The birds were fed the experimental diets and water was provided without restriction throughout the experimental period. The results showed that significant (P<0.05) effect on final body weight and weight gain in dietary supplementation of 1.5% MLM as compared to that of control group. Better feed conversion (1.53) was observed at 1.5% MLM group. Different levels of MLM exhibit significant influence on meat yield performance of broilers. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) observed among the average live weight, thigh meat, wing meat, drumstick meat, gizzard and abdominal fat of broilers. Breast meat, heart, liver, large intestine and dressing percentage showed significant difference. Lower mortality was found on diet supplemented with MLM. It is concluded that 1.5% MLM in broiler diets can be used as natural feed additive for enhancing growth performance, organ development, meat yield and serum cholesterol of broilers as well as replacing of oxytetracycline.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2017, 3(2): 240-244
Quantification of purity of some frequently used insecticides in vegetables insect pests
Authors: Ahmed Md Sultan , Sardar Md Mohsin Ali , Ahmad Masum , Kabir Kamal Humayun
Published: August 2017

The study was carried out to quantify the purity of different marketed brands of three insecticide namely diazinon, acephate and cypermethrin using suitable protocols GC-FID and GC-ECD. Nineteen marketed brands of these insecticides collected from retailers of Jessore, Gazipur and Rangpur region were analyzed and estimated their purity in two seasons of 2006-2007 and 2007-2008. Among six marketed brands of diazinon, only one brand (RSN) had 96.71-100% purity in both the seasons in all locations which considered to be standard product, but four brands (DZN, SBN, HZN, DNN) in other regions, contained <95% pure which were substandard product. The remaining 2 brands (DNN, AZN) contained 33.71-51.94% purity in 2006-07 and the other two brands (SBN, DZN) had very small amount of active ingredient (0.16-0.84% purity) in 2007-08 and all these were impure in quality. All five tested brands of acephate had 57.14-88.59% purity in 2006-07 which were substandard but in 2007-08, three brands (SNT, BNS, ATF) showed >90% purity and the remaining 2 had <80% purity which were less AI than required. Of eight tested brands of cypermethrin, three brands were almost to have >95% pure in 2006-07 in all locations. The other two brands (CPR, AMT) contained >90% purity. In 2007-08, two brands of cypermethrin (RCD, SCR) contained >95% pure, another two brand (CRN, RLT) had 88.77-91.15% purity. The brands UTD was standard in purity in 2006-07 but this brand was below standard in quality in 2007-08 in all locations. Most of the tested brands of cypermethrin were found standard and sub standard level of purity in comparison to diazinon and acephate.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2017, 3(2): 267-275
Prevalence of common diseases of broiler and layer at Gazipur district in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Arifur , Rahman Md Mostafijur , Moonmoon Monalisha , Alam Khondoker Jahengir , Islam Md Zahirul
Published: August 2017

The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of broiler and layer diseases at Gazipur sadar upazilla veterinary hospital in Bangladesh. A total of 296 either dead or sick birds were considered for the present study. Diagnosis of different diseases was made on the basis of history, owners complains, age of birds, presenting signs, clinical and necropsy examination findings. The prevalence of diseases was recorded in broiler (n=189) 63.9% and layer (n=107) 36.1%. In broiler the prevalence of Colibacillosis (33.4%) was higher followed by Omphalitis (23.8%), Infectious Bursal Disease-IBD (15.3%), Newcastle disease-ND (9.0%), mixed infection (7.4%), Gout (5.3%) and Coccidiosis (5.8%). In case of layer highest prevalence was recorded in Salmonellosis (19.6%). while other diseases were Collibacilosis (15.9%), Mycoplasmosis (12.1%), ND (10.3%), IBD (8.4), Mareks (9.3%), mixed infection (8.4%), Fowl Cholera (4.7%) and Mycotoxicosis (4.7%). The present findings will help poultry researchers and practitioner to know the present status of infectious diseases of commercial chickens in the study area and also help to establish flock based control strategy.Asian J. Med. Biol. Res. June 2017, 3(2): 290-293
Procalcitonin (PCT) - The new era for diagnosis of infection and guiding antibiotic decisions
Authors: Uddin Kazi Shihab
Published: August 2017

Abstract not availableKYAMC Journal Vol. 7, No.-1, Jul 2016, Page 660-661
Acute Circulatory Collapse Followed by Cardiac Arrest during Thiopentone Induction
Authors: Ali Md Rashid , Rahman Md Jobaidur , Khan Kamrul Russel , Adam Shamim , Alam Shamsul
Published: August 2017

Acute circulatory collapse followed by cardiac arrest is a rare but serious complication of thiopentone anaesthesia. A 5 years old boy admitted in North Bengal Medical College Hospital with history of 'Recurrent Tonsillitis'. He was prepared for tonsillectomy operation. The reports of his clinical investigations were almost normal except E.S.R which was a bit elevated-09%. X-Ray chest was normal, other investigatios did not show any abnormalities. During induction with Thiopentone Sodium the patient had sudden cardiac arrest. In spite of all life support given to him the patient did not recover.KYAMC Journal Vol. 7, No.-1, Jul 2016, Page 731-733
Engineered Aptamers to Probe Molecular Interactions on the Cell Surface
Authors: Batool Sana , Bhandari Sanam , George Shanell , Okeoma Precious , Van Nabeela , Zümrüt Hazan , Mallikaratchy Prabodhika
Published: August 2017

Significant progress has been made in understanding the nature of molecular interactions on the cell membrane. To decipher such interactions, molecular scaffolds can be engineered as a tool to modulate these events as they occur on the cell membrane. To guarantee reliability, scaffolds that function as modulators of cell membrane events must be coupled to a targeting moiety with superior chemical versatility. In this regard, nucleic acid aptamers are a suitable class of targeting moieties. Aptamers are inherently chemical in nature, allowing extensive site-specific chemical modification to engineer sensing molecules. Aptamers can be easily selected using a simple laboratory-based in vitro evolution method enabling the design and development of aptamer-based functional molecular scaffolds against wide range of cell surface molecules. This article reviews the application of aptamers as monitors and modulators of molecular interactions on the mammalian cell surface with the aim of increasing our understanding of cell-surface receptor response to external stimuli. The information gained from these types of studies could eventually prove useful in engineering improved medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
Nonlinear Modelling of Curved Masonry Structures after Seismic Retrofit through FRP Reinforcing
Authors: Pantò Bartolomeo , Cannizzaro Francesco , Caddemi Salvatore , Caliò Ivo , Chácara César , Lourenço Paulo
Published: August 2017

A reliable numerical evaluation of the nonlinear behaviour of historical masonry structures, before and after a seismic retrofitting, is a fundamental issue in the design of the structural retrofitting. Many strengthening techniques have been introduced aimed at improving the structural performance of existing structures that, if properly designed and applied, provide an effective contribution to the preservation of their cultural value. Among these strategies, the use of fabric-reinforced polymeric (FRP) materials on masonry surface is being widely adopted for practical engineering purposes. The application of strips or 2D grid composite layers is a low invasive and easy to apply retrofitting strategy, that is able to improve both the in-plane and the out of plane behaviour of masonry elements also in the presence of complex geometries thanks to their flexibility. For this reason, these techniques are frequently employed for reinforcing masonry curved elements, such as arches and vaults. In this paper, taking advantage of an existing general framework based on a discrete element approach previously introduced by the authors, a discrete element conceived for modelling the interaction between masonry and FRP reinforcement is applied to different curved masonry vaults typologies. This model, already used for evaluating the nonlinear behaviour of masonry arches, is here employed for the first time to evaluate the effectiveness of FRP reinforcements on double curvature elements. After a theoretical description of the proposed strategy, two applications relative to an arch and a dome, subjected to seismic loads, with different reinforced conditions, are presented. The benefit provided by the application of FRP strips is also compared with that associated to traditional retrofitting techniques. A sensitivity study is performed with respect to the structure scale factor.
Development of a New Battery Management System with an Independent Balance Module for Electrical Motorcycles
Authors: Lin Jeng-Chyan
Published: August 2017

Conventional balance modules are integrated with the battery management system (BMS) and occupy a large area of the BMS system. In addition large balance currents generate high heating rates and require heat dissipation mechanisms. This study proposes an independent structure for the balance module. Specifically the balance module is removed from of the BMS and is integrated with an off board charger. A new BMS structure is therefore created with a simplified BMS inside the battery module and the heat dissipation requirement for the balance module could be easily met on the charger side. The design, fabrication and test of this new type of BMS on a 72 V heavy electric motorcycle application is detailed in the current work. The new BMS reduces the space and weight required for the BMS in the e-motorcycle. Complexity in the battery module or on the EV side is significantly reduced. The heat dissipation problem associated with the large balance current is also resolved by moving the balance module to the charger end.
Biodiesel Production Potential from Littered Edible Oil Fraction Using Directly Synthesized S-TiO2/MCM-41 Catalyst in Esterification Process via Non-Catalytic Subcritical Hydrolysis
Authors: Bhuyan Md Sufi Ullah Siddik , Alam Abul Hasnat Md Ashraful , Chu Younghwan , Seo Yong Chan
Published: August 2017

Due to uncontrolled consumption of fossil fuel it is necessary to use alternative resources as renewable energy. Among all the available liquid fuels biodiesel has drawn attention for producing less emissions and having less aromatic contents than diesel and because it can also be obtained from inferior grade feedstocks. Since the various uses of fats and oils have increased, a significant amount of waste animal fat and used edible oil is generated every year. In this work, we produced biodiesel from littered edible oil fraction (LEOF) via hydrolysis followed by catalytic esterification. Nearly 90% free fatty acids (FFA) content was achieved at 275 °C, after 45 min during hydrolysis and linoleic acid (C18:2) was observed to be the highest component. Compared to refined soybean oil (SBO) the reaction rate was accelerated by the auto-catalytic behavior of free fatty acids (FFA) in littered edible oil fraction (LEOF). For catalytic esterification, S-TiO2/MCM-41 catalyst was directly synthesized and characterized by using XRD, SEM, NH3-TPD and Brunauer Emmett Teller (B.E.T). The parameters such as; SO4−2 content, TiO2 loading and calcination temperature were varied to get optimum free fatty acids (FFA) conversion. Fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) conversion was 99.29% using 1% S-TiO2/MCM-41 catalyst at 240 °C whereas 86.18% was observed with 3.5% catalyst at 180 °C with 20 min. Thus, using S-TiO2/MCM-41 catalyst in esterification via hydrolysis would be a better option for treating low quality feedstocks.
Day-Ahead Active Power Scheduling in Active Distribution Network Considering Renewable Energy Generation Forecast Errors
Authors: Cong Pengwei , Tang Wei , Zhang Lu , Zhang Bo , Cai Yongxiang
Published: August 2017

With large-scale integration of distributed energy resources (DERs), distribution networks have turned into active distribution networks (ADNs). However, management risks and obstacles are caused by this in due to renewable energy generation (REG) forecasting errors. In this paper, a day-ahead active power scheduling method considering REG forecast errors is proposed to eliminate the risks, minimize the costs of distribution companies and achieve optimal power flow. A hierarchical coordination optimization model based on chance constrained programming is established to realize day-ahead optimal scheduling of active power in ADNs coordinated with network reconfiguration, achieving an optimal solution of network topologies and DER outputs. The hierarchical method includes three levels: the first level provides initial values, and multiple iterations between the second and third level are used to solve the multi-period mixed integer nonlinear optimization problem. The randomness due to REG forecast errors is tackled with chance constrained programming in the scheduling procedure. The hybrid particle swarm optimization algorithm is employed to solve the proposed model. Simulation results verify the validity of the proposed method with an improved 33 nodes distribution network.
Numerical Analysis of the Combustion and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engines with Multiple Injection Strategies Using a Modified 2-D Flamelet Model
Authors: Kim Gyujin , Moon Sunyoung , Lee Seungha , Min Kyoungdoug
Published: August 2017

The multiple injection strategy has been widely used in diesel engines to reduce engine noise, NOx and soot formation. Fuel injection developments such as the common-rail and piezo-actuator system provide more precise control of the injection quantity and time under higher injection pressures. As various injection strategies become accessible, it is important to understand the interaction of each fuel stream and following combustion process under the multiple injection strategy. To investigate these complex processes quantitatively, numerical analysis using CFD is a good alternative to overcome the limitation of experiments. A modified 2-D flamelet model is further developed from previous work to model multi-fuel streams with higher accuracy. The model was validated under various engine operating conditions and captures the combustion and emissions characteristics as well as several parametric variations. The model is expected to be used to suggest advanced injection strategies in engine development processes.
Globular Clusters and the Halos of Dwarf Galaxies
Authors: Larsen Søren
Published: August 2017

Many dwarf galaxies have disproportionately rich globular cluster (GC) systems for their luminosities. Moreover, the GCs tend to be preferentially associated with the most metal-poor stellar populations in their parent galaxies, making them attractive tracers of the halos of dwarf (and larger) galaxies. In this contribution, I briefly discuss some constraints on cluster disruption obtained from studies of metal-poor GCs in dwarf galaxies. I then discuss our recent work on detailed abundance analysis from integrated-light spectroscopy of GCs in Local Group dwarf galaxies.
Detection of G1138A Mutation of the FGFR3 Gene in Tooth Material from a 180-Year-Old Museological Achondroplastic Skeleton
Authors: Boer Lucas , Naue Jana , De Rooy Laurens , Oostra Roelof-Jan
Published: August 2017

Throughout the last four centuries, many anatomical museums across the world have collected teratological specimens that became precious objects. These can be regarded as spirits of the past which have captured the morphology of diseases through time. These valuable and irreplaceable specimens can be perfectly used in contemporary dysmorphological or genetic research. Unfortunately, due to the historical nature of these specimens and the regularly used aggressive preservation fluids, DNA degradation is often present. Furthermore, the use of material for DNA extraction is restricted to preserve the appearance of these valuable museological specimens. Thus, the most challenging part in this perspective is to harvest sufficient DNA of good quality for further testing without damaging the specimens. Besides fixated specimens, most teratological collections contain dried skeletal and teeth materials which are an excellent source to extract DNA. We here present a DNA-based method that enables genetic identification of the G1138A mutation of the FGFR3 gene in a 180-year-old achondroplastic skeleton, confirming the previously morphologically determined disease. Nuclear DNA was extracted from a premolar tooth and the mutation was found using Sanger sequencing of a small region of the FGFR3 gene.
Transnational Research Networks in Chinese Scientific Production. An Investigation on Health-Industry Related Sectors
Authors: Rubini Lauretta , Pollio Chiara , Di Tommaso Marco
Published: August 2017

Transnational research networks (TRN) are becoming increasingly complex. Such complexity may have both positive and negative effects on the quality of research. Our work studies the evolution over time of Chinese TRN and the role of complexity on the quality of Chinese research, given the leading role this country has recently acquired in international science. We focus on the fields of geriatrics and gerontology. We build an original dataset of all scientific publications of China in these areas in 2009, 2012 and 2015, starting from the ISI Web of Knowledge (ISI WoK) database. Using Social Network Analysis (SNA), we analyze the change in scientific network structure across time. Second, we design indices to control for the different aspects of networks complexity (number of authors, country heterogeneity and institutional heterogeneity) and we perform negative binomial regressions to identify the main determinants of research quality. Our analysis shows that research networks in the field of geriatrics and gerontology have gradually become wider in terms of countries and have become more balanced. Furthermore, our results identify that different forms of complexity have different impacts on quality, including a reciprocal moderating effect. In particular, according to our analysis, research quality benefits from complex research networks both in terms of countries and of types of institutions involved, but that such networks should be “compact” in terms of number of authors. Eventually, we suggest that complexity should be carefully taken into account when designing policies aimed at enhancing the quality of research.
Pharmaceutical Industry in Vietnam: Sluggish Sector in a Growing Market
Authors: Angelino Antonio , Khanh Do , An Ha Nguyen , Pham Tuan
Published: August 2017

Vietnam is a fast growing economy in the Asian region with a significantly high population (over 92 million in 2015). Although still expanding (about 1.1% on average during 2000–2015), the Vietnamese population is considered to be entering the ageing stage at a very high rate. The rapid expansion of the middle-income urban class and the ageing people ratio have dramatically pushed up the demand for healthcare goods, particularly in terms of pharmaceutical products. Since the early 1990s the government has addressed the necessities of rising demand for healthcare products by formulating a series of policies aimed at promoting the development of the pharmaceutical industry. However, the implementation of such policies does not seem to have been completely efficient given that the country still needs to import up to 90% of its pharmaceutical consumption. This paper aims to explore the development of the pharmaceutical industry during the years 1990–2015 and to identify a series of weaknesses in the government promotion of the industry. Future developments will also be discussed on how the Vietnamese pharmaceutical industry could increase its participation in the regional supply chain, which is currently being dominated by big players like India and China.
Alginate-Based Edible Films Delivering Probiotic Bacteria to Sliced Ham Pretreated with High Pressure Processing
Authors: Pavli Foteini , Kovaiou Ioanna , Apostolakopoulou Georgia , Kapetanakou Anastasia , Skandamis Panagiotis , Nychas George-John , Tassou Chrysoula , Chorianopoulos Nikos
Published: August 2017

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the efficacy of Na-alginate edible films as vehicles for delivering probiotic bacteria to sliced ham with or without pretreatment using high pressure processing (HPP). Three strains of probiotic bacteria were incorporated in Na-alginate forming solution. Ham slices (with or without pretreatment using HPP at 500 MPa for 2 min) were packed under vacuum in contact with the films and then stored at 4, 8 and 12 °C for 66, 47 and 40 days, respectively. Microbiological analysis was performed in parallel with pH and color measurements. Sensory characteristics were assessed, while the presence and the relative abundance of each probiotic strain during storage was evaluated using pulsed field gel electrophoresis. In ham slices without HPP treatment, probiotic bacteria were enumerated above 106 CFU/g during storage at all temperatures. Same results were obtained in cases of HPP treated samples, but pH measurements showed differences with the latter ones exhibiting higher values. Sensory evaluation revealed that probiotic samples had a more acidic taste and odor than the control ones, however these characteristics were markedly compromised in samples treated with HPP. Overall, the results of the study are promising since probiotic bacteria were successfully delivered in the products by edible films regardless of the HPP treatment.
Acute Kidney Injury in Heart Failure Revisited—The Ameliorating Impact of “Decongestive Diuresis” on Renal Dysfunction in Type 1 Acute Cardiorenal Syndrome: Accelerated Rising Pro B Naturetic Peptide Is a Predictor of Good Renal Prognosis
Authors: Onuigbo Macaulay , Agbasi Nneoma , Sengodan Mohan , Rosario Karen
Published: August 2017

There is mounting evidence that forward heart failure as manifested by low cardiac output alone does not define the degree of renal dysfunction in cardiorenal syndrome. As a result, the term “congestive renal failure” was coined in 2012 by Ross to depict the role of renal venous hypertension in type 1 acute cardiorenal syndrome. If so, aggressive decongestive therapies, either through mechanical ultrafiltration with dialysis machines or pharmacologic ultrafiltration with potent diuretics, would lead to improved cardio and renal outcomes. Nevertheless, as recently as 2012, a review of this literature had concluded that a renal venous hypertension-directed approach using diuretics to manage cardio-renal syndrome was yet to be fully investigated. We, in this review, with three consecutive case series, describe our experience with pharmacologic decongestive diuresis in this paradigm of care and argue for studies of such therapeutic interventions in the management of cardiorenal syndrome. Finally, based on our observations in the Renal Unit, Mayo Clinic Health System, in Northwestern Wisconsin, we have hypothesized that patients with cardiorenal syndrome presenting with accelerated rising Pro B Naturetic Peptide levels appear to represent a group that would have good cardio- and renal-outcomes with such decongestive pharmacologic therapies.
Characterization and Applications of Kaolinite Robustly Grafted by an Ionic Liquid with Naphthyl Functionality
Authors: Kenne Dedzo Gustave , Detellier Christian
Published: August 2017

Functionalization of the kaolinite (K) interlayer space is challenging. In this work, a new kaolinite-based nanohybridmaterial (K-NI) was successfully synthesized by grafting on the interlayer aluminol surfaces the ionic liquid, 1-(1-methylnaphthyl)-3-(2-hydroxyethyl) imidazolium chloride (NI), using a guest displacement strategy. A substantial increase of the basal spacing (10.8 Å) was obtained. This is a grafted derivative of kaolinite possessing one of the largest d-values. Washing in water for several days and other vigorous treatments such as sonication showed a minor effect on the integrity of the material. FTIR and 13C NMR confirmed the conservation of the structure of the ionic liquid after the grafting. Thermal analysis confirmed the presence of grafted material and was used to estimate the abundance of the grafted ionic liquid (0.44 mole per mole of kaolinite structural formula, (Al2Si2O5(OH)4)). By using cyclic voltammetry, the permeability of a film of K-NI for the bulky ferricyanide ions was demonstrated. The accumulation of nitrophenolate anions was effective (maximum capacity of 190 μmol/g), but was less important than what was expected due to the steric hindrance of the bulky grafted NI. Although the presence of chloride anions reduced the adsorption capacity, the affinity of the modified kaolinite interlayer space for the nitrophenolate anions was demonstrated.
Insight into the Genome of Staphylococcus xylosus, a Ubiquitous Species Well Adapted to Meat Products
Authors: Leroy Sabine , Vermassen Aurore , Ras Geoffrey , Talon Régine
Published: August 2017

Staphylococcus xylosus belongs to the vast group of coagulase-negative staphylococci. It is frequently isolated from meat products, either fermented or salted and dried, and is commonly used as starter cultures in sausage manufacturing. Analysis of the S. xylosus genome together with expression in situ in a meat model revealed that this bacterium is well adapted to meat substrates, being able to use diverse substrates as sources of carbon and energy and different sources of nitrogen. It is well-equipped with genes involved in osmotic, oxidative/nitrosative, and acidic stress responses. It is responsible for the development of the typical colour of cured meat products via its nitrate reductase activity. It contributes to sensorial properties, mainly by the the catabolism of pyruvate and amino acids resulting in odorous compounds and by the limiting of the oxidation of fatty acids, thereby avoiding rancidity.
RETRACTED: Pyrene-Phosphonate Conjugate: Aggregation-Induced Enhanced Emission, and Selective Fe3+ Ions Sensing Properties
Authors: Padghan Sachin , Bhosale Rajesh , Bhosale Sidhanath , Antolasic Frank , Al Kobaisi Mohammad , Bhosale Sheshanath
Published: August 2017

A new pyrene-phosphonate colorimetric receptor 1 has been designed and synthesized in a one-step process via amide bond formation between pyrene butyric acid chloride and phosphonate-appended aniline. The pyrene-phosphonate receptor 1 showed aggregation-induced enhanced emission (AIEE) properties in water/acetonitrile (ACN) solutions. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) characterization revealed that the aggregates of receptor 1 at 80% water fraction have an average size of ≈142 nm. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis confirmed the formation of spherical aggregates upon solvent evaporation. The sensing properties of receptor 1 were investigated by UV-vis, fluorescence emission spectroscopy, and other optical methods. Among the tested metal ions, receptor 1 is capable of recognizing the Fe3+ ion selectively. The changes in spectral measurements were explained on the basis of complex formation. The composition of receptor 1 and Fe3+ ions was determined by using Job’s plot and found to be 1:1. The receptor 1–Fe3+ complex showed a reversible UV-vis response in the presence of EDTA.
Stringent Nucleotide Recognition by the Ribosome at the Middle Codon Position
Authors: Liu Wei , Shin Dongwon , Ng Martin , Sanbonmatsu Karissa , Tor Yitzhak , Cooperman Barry
Published: August 2017

Accurate translation of the genetic code depends on mRNA:tRNA codon:anticodon base pairing. Here we exploit an emissive, isosteric adenosine surrogate that allows direct measurement of the kinetics of codon:anticodon University of California base formation during protein synthesis. Our results suggest that codon:anticodon base pairing is subject to tighter constraints at the middle position than at the 5′- and 3′-positions, and further suggest a sequential mechanism of formation of the three base pairs in the codon:anticodon helix.
The Role of Metal Binding in the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-Related Aggregation of Copper-Zinc Superoxide Dismutase
Authors: Sirangelo Ivana , Iannuzzi Clara
Published: August 2017

Protein misfolding and conformational changes are common hallmarks in many neurodegenerative diseases involving formation and deposition of toxic protein aggregates. Although many players are involved in the in vivo protein aggregation, physiological factors such as labile metal ions within the cellular environment are likely to play a key role. In this review, we elucidate the role of metal binding in the aggregation process of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (SOD1) associated to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). SOD1 is an extremely stable Cu-Zn metalloprotein in which metal binding is crucial for folding, enzymatic activity and maintenance of the native conformation. Indeed, demetalation in SOD1 is known to induce misfolding and aggregation in physiological conditions in vitro suggesting that metal binding could play a key role in the pathological aggregation of SOD1. In addition, this study includes recent advances on the role of aberrant metal coordination in promoting SOD1 aggregation, highlighting the influence of metal ion homeostasis in pathologic aggregation processes.
The Tuning of Optical Properties of Nanoscale MOFs-Based Thin Film through Post-Modification
Authors: Yin Wenchang , Tao Cheng-an , Zou Xiaorong , Wang Fang , Qu Tianlian , Wang Jianfang
Published: August 2017

Optical properties, which determine the application of optical devices in different fields, are the most significant properties of optical thin films. In recent years, Metal-organic framework (MOF)-based optical thin films have attracted increasing attention because of their novel optical properties and important potential applications in optical and photoelectric devices, especially optical thin films with tunable optical properties. This study reports the first example of tuning the optical properties of a MOF-based optical thin film via post-modification. The MOF-based optical thin film was composed of NH2-MIL-53(Al) nanorods (NRs) (MIL: Materials from Institute Lavoisier), and was constructed via a spin-coating method. Three aldehydes with different lengths of carbon chains were chosen to modify the MOF optical thin film to tune their optical properties. After post-modification, the structural color of the NH2-MIL-53(Al) thin film showed an obvious change from purple to bluish violet and cyan. The reflection spectrum and the reflectivity also altered in different degrees. The effective refractive index (neff) of MOFs thin film can also be tuned from 1.292 to 1.424 at a wavelength of 750 nm. The success of tuning of the optical properties of MOFs thin films through post-modification will make MOFs optical thin films meet different needs of optical properties in various optical and optoelectronic devices.
Urinary Sodium-to-Potassium Ratio Tracks the Changes in Salt Intake during an Experimental Feeding Study Using Standardized Low-Salt and High-Salt Meals among Healthy Japanese Volunteers
Authors: Yatabe Midori , Iwahori Toshiyuki , Watanabe Ami , Takano Kozue , Sanada Hironobu , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Ichihara Atsuhiro , Felder Robin , Miura Katsuyuki , Ueshima Hirotsugu , Kimura Junko , Yatabe Junichi
Published: August 2017

The Na/K ratio is considered to be a useful index, the monitoring of which allows an effective Na reduction and K increase, because practical methods (self-monitoring devices and reliable individual estimates from spot urine) are available for assessing these levels in individuals. An intervention trial for lowering the Na/K ratio has demonstrated that a reduction of the Na/K ratio mainly involved Na reduction, with only a small change in K. The present study aimed to clarify the relationship between dietary Na intake and the urinary Na/K molar ratio, using standardized low- and high-salt diets, with an equal dietary K intake, to determine the corresponding Na/K ratio. Fourteen healthy young adult volunteers ingested low-salt (3 g salt per day) and high-salt (20 g salt per day) meals for seven days each. Using a portable urinary Na/K meter, participants measured their spot urine at each voiding, and 24-h urine was collected on the last day of each diet period. On the last day of the unrestricted, low-salt, and high-salt diet periods, the group averages of the 24-h urine Na/K ratio were 4.2, 1.0, and 6.9, while the group averages of the daily mean spot urine Na/K ratio were 4.2, 1.1, and 6.6, respectively. The urinary Na/K ratio tracked changes in dietary salt intake, and reached a plateau approximately three days after each change in diet. Frequent monitoring of the spot urine Na/K ratio may help individuals adhere to an appropriate dietary Na intake.
Effect of Different Silicon Sources on Yield and Silicon Uptake of Rice Grown under Varying Phosphorus Rates
Authors: Agostinho Flavia , Tubana Brenda , Martins Murilo , Datnoff Lawrence
Published: August 2017

A series of pot experiments were conducted to: (1) evaluate the effects of different Si sources (soil- and foliar-applied) on grain yield and Si accumulation of rice supplied with varying P rates, and (2) evaluate Si absorption of rice using foliar- and soil-applied Si fertilizers. Three P rates, (0, 112, and 224 kg ha−1) combined with five Si treatments (wollastonite and slag applied at 4.5 ton ha−1 and one foliar Si solution applied at 20, 40 and 80 mg Si L−1) and a check were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The presence of P and Si in the soil created a synergistic effect on soil Al, Mn, and As (P < 0.01), but not on rice growth and P uptake. Wollastonite and slag application were most effective in raising rice Si content than foliar applied Si (P < 0.001). While there was an improvement in biomass (42%) and tiller production (25%) for rice receiving foliar Si, no supporting evidence was obtained in these experiments to verify leaf surface Si absorption. The application of Si-rich materials to soil still remains the most effective method for enhancing Si uptake by plants.
Carbanion as a Superbase for Catalyzing Thiol–Epoxy Photopolymerization
Authors: Dong Xiaoqing , Hu Peng , Shen Weizhen , Li Zhiquan , Liu Ren , Liu Xiaoya
Published: August 2017

Photobase generator (PBG)-mediated thiol–epoxy photopolymerization has received widedspread attention due to its versatility in various applications. Currently, nearly all reported PBGs release amines as active species. The formed amines induce odor, yellowing, and potential toxicity. In this study, a series of novel thioxanthone-based PBGs, which were able to generate carbanion via decarboxylation under LED light irradiation, were designed and straightforwardly prepared. The formed carbanion can be used as a superbase to catalyze thiol–epoxy polymerization efficiently. Investigation on 1H NMR and FT-IR confirmed the generation of carbanion intermediates. The counteranion significantly affected the photodecarboxylation efficiency. The study of photopolymerization tests, based on real-time FT-IR and dielectric analysis measurements, indicated that the generated carbanion exhibited faster polymerization rate and higher epoxy conversion than traditional superbase 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU). In differential scanning calorimeter, thermogravimetric, and nanoindentation tests, comparable thermal and mechanical properties of the photocured films catalyzed by novel PBGs were obtained. The high initiation ability combined with straightforward synthesis makes these PBGs promising candidates for commercialization.
Using Social, Economic and Land-Use Indices to Build a Local Sustainability Index in a Mining Region of the Sierra Tarahumara, Mexico
Authors: Pinedo-Álvarez Carmelo , Chacón-Chumacero Karla , Pinedo-Álvarez Alfredo , Martínez-Salvador Martín , Rentería-Villalobos Marusia , Santellano-Estrada Eduardo , Rodríguez-Piñeros Sandra
Published: August 2017

Ore mining has served as a predictor of economic wellbeing since it brought development to countries. However, these benefits do not always extend to all localities that comprised the center of this industry. This paper examined the contribution of mining to local communities. An index of local sustainability was constructed based on economic, social, and land-use data from twelve localities where mining and forestry are their major economic activities. Land-use variables were obtained from Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM 5) images for 2000, and Landsat Operational Land Imager (OLI8) for 2014, while the socio-economic variables were collected in twelve localities with an 85-question survey. A sustainability index was developed for each group of variables—economic (ESI), social (SSI) and land-use sustainability index (LUSI)—to further build a local sustainability index (LSI). Three localities showed the highest ESI (0.61, 0.53 and 0.43) and SSI (0.90, 0.79 and 0.78), while two localities had the lowest values in the ESI and SSI. In contrast, the highest value of LUSI was found in two other different localities and in one with lower SSI. Income from mining activities is positively associated with the ESI and SSI, but there was no evidence of linear association with the LUSI. A local index of sustainability provides useful information for planning and development strategies.
A Tactile Sensor Network System Using a Multiple Sensor Platform with a Dedicated CMOS-LSI for Robot Applications
Authors: Shao Chenzhong , Tanaka Shuji , Nakayama Takahiro , Hata Yoshiyuki , Bartley Travis , Nonomura Yutaka , Muroyama Masanori
Published: August 2017

Robot tactile sensation can enhance human–robot communication in terms of safety, reliability and accuracy. The final goal of our project is to widely cover a robot body with a large number of tactile sensors, which has significant advantages such as accurate object recognition, high sensitivity and high redundancy. In this study, we developed a multi-sensor system with dedicated Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) Large-Scale Integration (LSI) circuit chips (referred to as “sensor platform LSI”) as a framework of a serial bus-based tactile sensor network system. The sensor platform LSI supports three types of sensors: an on-chip temperature sensor, off-chip capacitive and resistive tactile sensors, and communicates with a relay node via a bus line. The multi-sensor system was first constructed on a printed circuit board to evaluate basic functions of the sensor platform LSI, such as capacitance-to-digital and resistance-to-digital conversion. Then, two kinds of external sensors, nine sensors in total, were connected to two sensor platform LSIs, and temperature, capacitive and resistive sensing data were acquired simultaneously. Moreover, we fabricated flexible printed circuit cables to demonstrate the multi-sensor system with 15 sensor platform LSIs operating simultaneously, which showed a more realistic implementation in robots. In conclusion, the multi-sensor system with up to 15 sensor platform LSIs on a bus line supporting temperature, capacitive and resistive sensing was successfully demonstrated.
Geometric Calibration and Accuracy Verification of the GF-3 Satellite
Authors: Zhao Ruishan , Zhang Guo , Deng Mingjun , Xu Kai , Guo Fengcheng
Published: August 2017

The GF-3 satellite is the first multi-polarization synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging satellite in China, which operates in the C band with a resolution of 1 m. Although the SAR satellite system was geometrically calibrated during the in-orbit commissioning phase, there are still some system errors that affect its geometric positioning accuracy. In this study, these errors are classified into three categories: fixed system error, time-varying system error, and random error. Using a multimode hybrid geometric calibration of spaceborne SAR, and considering the atmospheric propagation delay, all system errors can be effectively corrected through high-precision ground control points and global atmospheric reference data. The geometric calibration experiments and accuracy evaluation for the GF-3 satellite are performed using ground control data from several regions. The experimental results show that the residual system errors of the GF-3 SAR satellite have been effectively eliminated, and the geometric positioning accuracy can be better than 3 m.
Automatic Registration of TLS-TLS and TLS-MLS Point Clouds Using a Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Yan Li , Tan Junxiang , Liu Hua , Xie Hong , Chen Changjun
Published: August 2017

Registration of point clouds is a fundamental issue in Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) remote sensing because point clouds scanned from multiple scan stations or by different platforms need to be transformed to a uniform coordinate reference frame. This paper proposes an efficient registration method based on genetic algorithm (GA) for automatic alignment of two terrestrial LiDAR scanning (TLS) point clouds (TLS-TLS point clouds) and alignment between TLS and mobile LiDAR scanning (MLS) point clouds (TLS-MLS point clouds). The scanning station position acquired by the TLS built-in GPS and the quasi-horizontal orientation of the LiDAR sensor in data acquisition are used as constraints to narrow the search space in GA. A new fitness function to evaluate the solutions for GA, named as Normalized Sum of Matching Scores, is proposed for accurate registration. Our method is divided into five steps: selection of matching points, initialization of population, transformation of matching points, calculation of fitness values, and genetic operation. The method is verified using a TLS-TLS data set and a TLS-MLS data set. The experimental results indicate that the RMSE of registration of TLS-TLS point clouds is 3~5 mm, and that of TLS-MLS point clouds is 2~4 cm. The registration integrating the existing well-known ICP with GA is further proposed to accelerate the optimization and its optimizing time decreases by about 50%.