bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Temperature Solid-Liquid Interactions in Metal-Ceramic Brazing: A Critical Review
Authors: Passerone Alberto , Valenza Fabrizio , Muolo Maria Luigia
Published: January 2017

Solid-liquid interactions in metal-ceramic systems are extremely important in high temperature brazing processes. These interfacial phenomena are reviewed here, from both the thermodynamic and microstructural viewpoints.
At high temperature, the wetting characteristics and the adhesion properties of the joints are strongly related to the high atomic mobility of the different phases, giving rise to different phenomena, ranging from the dissolution of the ceramic in the liquid phase, reactions, formation of new phases and reprecipitation at the solid-liquid interface.
The role phase diagrams in guiding the choice of the filler alloys composition and to optimize the brazing procedures is emphasized. In particular, it is shown that the computation of new diagrams and the critical use of the existing ones is essential to understand how to suppress the substrate dissolution and to interpret the evolution of the system.
Experimental data are presented and discussed concerning the interactions between liquid metals with early-transition-metal diborides (TiB2, ZrB2, HfB2) as a typical example involving the joining of Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs).
Overall, these studies represent the basic step linking the chemical and structural information to the design of industrial processes involving a liquid phase at high temperature, such as the production of metal-ceramic joints or composite materials to be used in highly demanding applications.
Molten Pool in Welding Processes: Phenomenological vs Fluid-Dynamic Numerical Simulation Approach
Authors: Ferro Paolo
Published: January 2017

The metallurgical and mechanical properties of fusion welded joints are influenced, among others phenomena, by the weld pool dimension and shape. Weld pool shape is important in the development of grain structure and dendrite growth selection process as well as in the development of residual stresses. For these reasons, significant advances have been made in recent years to understand, in greater detail, the dynamics of the heat and fluid flow in the weld and the subsequent development of the pool shape. In numerical simulation of welding processes, there are two different approaches used to model the fusion zone. If the prediction of distortions and residual stresses is the primary objective of the simulation (computational weld mechanics simulation), the phenomenological approach is the most suitable method used to model the fusion zone. Otherwise, when the weld pool shape has to be predicted, the fluid-dynamic equations must be solved at the expense of a significant ‘computational load’ increase. In this work, after a brief description of weld pool characteristics, such two different approaches are described and compared.
Interaction between Molten Alloys and Electro-Magnetic Fields: Levitation and Cold Crucible
Authors: Chitarin Giuseppe
Published: January 2017

The physics of the interaction between a liquid metals and an externally applied magnetic field is analysed starting from the basic equations of the phenomena involved: electromagnetic fields, fluid dynamics, viscosity and surface tension. A set of general equations is deduced to describe a levitation melting system. The equations are progressively simplified in order to highlight the most important contributions to the phenomena. The basis criteria for the design and operation of a cold crucible system are then described and together with some of the experimental results obtained.
Investigation of Platinum and Nickel Nanoparticles Migration and Accumulation in Soils within the Southeastern Part of West Siberia
Authors: Kulizhskiy Sergey P. , Loiko Sergey V. , Morgalev Yuri N. , Istigechev Georgy I. , Rodikova Anna V. , Maron Tatyana A.
Published: January 2017

The migration and accumulation of nickel (nNi) and platinum (nPt) nanoparticles (NPs) in loamy sand and loamy soils (Luvisols) occupying the largest area in the southeastern part of West Siberia, have been investigated. The experiments were made in situ. The loamy sand soils (Albic Lamellic Luvisol) were tested down to a depth of 55 cm to sorb 100% nNi and at least 71% nPt of their total introduced amount. The rest 29% nPt either penetrated below the depth of 55 cm, or moved laterally. The experimental results in loamy soils enormously differed. Thus, only 16 to 20% nPt and 8 to 10 % nPt migrated radially in the Albic Luvisol and adjacent Stagnic Luvisol, respectively, while the rest NPs shifted laterally. The differences between the loamy soils are associated with lesser biogenic porosity of the Stagnic Luvisol, and, as a consequence, with higher density. The NPs migration and sorption processes are related to the soil properties differentiation. The inverse correlation between the concentration of nPt sorbed in soil horizons and their density with R2 = 0.67 has been established. NPs have shown high migrational ability with nNi to a lesser extent, and nPt to a larger extent. During a single introduction, these are able to penetrate depths of more than 1 m with both gravitational and capillary water.
Synthesis of Composites Based on Polyaniline-Modified Dispersed Nanocarbon Supports and Prospects of their Application as Sorbents
Authors: Dyachkova Tatyana P. , Anosova Irina V. , Galunin Evgeny V. , Orlova Natalia V. , Tkachev Alexey G.
Published: January 2017

Pristine, catalyst-free and carboxylated carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were modified with polyaniline via oxidative polymerization of aniline using ammonium persulfate. The effect of the nanocarbon support nature, degree of CNT functionalization and modification conditions on the specific surface area of the obtained composites was studied. Prospects of the application of the polyaniline-modified CNTs-and GNPs-based materials as sorbents for retention of different substances, including pathogenic organisms, were analyzed.
Dose-Dependent Effects of the Action of Sulfur Nanoparticles on the Growth Response and Seed Production of Typical Steppe Phytocenoses
Authors: Ryabinina Zinaida N. , Ryabukhina Marija V. , Kolodina Maya V.
Published: January 2017

The article presents the results of a study of typical steppe phytocenoses presented one ecological and biological group - xeromesophyte but different systematic affiliation and forms of life, to the action of sulfur nanoparticles. Results of the study showed a relationship between the concentrations of sulfur nanoparticles and growth responses, biochemical parameters and seed productivity of investigated species
Comparative Analysis of the Activity of Silver Nanoparticles against Native Microflora from Poultry Processing Plants Wastes
Authors: Piskaeva Anastasia I. , Sidorin Yuriy Yu. , Prosekov Alexander Yu.
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to examine and compare bactericidal properties of silver nanoparticles on strains isolated from poultry processing plants wastes. Strains Еscherichia coli В-6240, Salmonella typhimurium В3533 were used as a model test strains for Gram-negative bacteria and Lactobacillus sp. B3730, Lactobacillus salivarius B5001, Thermoactinomyces thalpophilus AC936 were used as a model test strains for Gram-positive bacteria.
New Sorption Materials on the Basis of Aluminosilicates for Wasterwater Treatment
Authors: Abdugaffarova Kristina K. , Dorogov Maksim V. , Vikarchuk Anatolii A. , Zabolotskikh Vlada V. , Firsov Vladislav S.
Published: January 2017

This article presents the results of experimental obtaining together with tests of modifications of the granulated sorption aluminosilicate-based material. The chemical composition, structure and morphology of a surface of the obtained modifications of sorbents from clay have been explored. Through a complex of modern physical methods it is established that porosity and a specific surface of clay-based sorbents increased as a result of modification. Pilot studies have shown higher efficiency of new aluminosilicate-based sorbents in comparison with absorbent carbon during sorption of such model pollutants as methylene blue, phenol and ions of heavy metals. Modifications of sorbent which can be effectively used for post treatment of wastewater are revealed.
Determination of Silver Nanoparticle Concentration Ratio in the Blood and Brain of Rats for Different Administration Routes
Authors: Soloviev Vladimir Yu. , Antsiferova Anna A. , Fatkina Svetlana S. , Demin Vyacheslav A. , Demin Vladimir F.
Published: January 2017

A study to assess the concentrations ratio of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) in the blood and brain of the male Wistar rats using nuclear physical methods has been carried out. The Ag-NPs suspension including quasi-spherical Ag-NPs was administrated intravenously (in the tail vein for Ag-NPs of 9+2 nm and 94+10 nm), and for Ag-NPs of 94 nm diameter it was also administrated orally and intratracheally. The organ recovery was made in 24 h following the administration (for three types of administration) and one more time in 120 h in case of intravenous administration. Radioactive label in the nuclei of silver was created by irradiation of Ag-NPs suspensions in a flow of reactor thermal neutrons, and its share was 5.6 ∙ 10-7 of the total number of silver atoms. This fact could not affect the overall physical and chemical properties of radiolabeled Ag-NPs. We measured the activity of the 110mAg isotope-label in samples of blood and brain of rats, while the activity of 59Fe isotope was measured after the exposure to samples of these organs.Given the fact that iron is contained mainly in the hemoglobin of blood, on the basis of the measurement of 59Fe activity being the induced by neutron flux, we derived an evaluation of the residual mass of blood in brain capillaries using a standard procedure to prepare the samples. This determination is 0.058±0.010 g, and on average this is about 0 37±0.09% of the total mass of blood in rats. The estimated ratio of the Ag-NPs concentration in brain samples of rats (minus the Ag-NPs number in residual blood capillaries) to their peripheral blood concentration for 9 nm Ag-NPs is 0.16±0.04 and 0.31±0.07, and for 94 nm Ag-NPs - 0.20±0.05 and 0.29±0.07 for times in 24 and 120 hours after intravenous administration, respectively. For Ag-NPs of 9 nm and 94 nm diameter we revealed no significant effect of the Ag-NPs size on the value of this ratio. The same ratio for Ag-NPs of 94 nm diameter in 24 h after the oral and intratracheal administration is 0.29+0.09 and 0.41+0.12, respectively.
Short-Time Effect of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Some Histological and Biochemical Parameters in Marine Bivalves Crenomytilus grayanus (Dunker, 1853) and Swiftopecten swifti (Bernardi, 1858)
Authors: Anisimova Anna A. , Lukyanova Olga N. , Chaika Vladimir V. , Kalitnik Alexandra A. , Danilenko Svetlana A. , Kuznetsov Vladimir L. , Golokhvast Kirill S.
Published: January 2017

The marine bivalves, mussels Crenomytilus grayanus (Dunker, 1853) and scallops Swiftopecten swifti (Bernardi, 1858), were in vivo exposed to 12-14 nm multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) for up to 48 h. Microscopic analysis in combination with the RAMAN spectrophotometry revealed the MWNT aggregates on the gills surface and inside the gut of all exposed individuals. After 48 h exposure, there were no changes in the total cell count, the average cell size and granularity in the hemolymph of mussels, while in the scallops the total hemocyte count was significantly reduced, and the average hemocyte granularity increased. Biochemical markers of oxidative stress (activity of glutathione-S-transferase and catalase, concentration of reduced glutathione, and the degree of lipid peroxidation) did not change significantly in the digestive gland of both mussels and scallops. In hemolymph, catalase activity increased as compared to control in both mussels and scallops. Moreover, concentration of reduced glutathione increased in hemolymph of scallops on the second day of exposure to MWNTs. The data obtained indicate that MWNTs may affect different bivalve mollusks more or less strongly under the same exposure conditions.
Antimicrobial Activity of Differently Concentrated Nanoparticle Dispersions
Authors: Frolov Georgy A. , Karasenkov Yakov N. , Gusev Alexander A. , Zakharova Olga V. , Godymchuk Anna Yu. , Kuznetsov Denis V. , Leont'ev Valerii K.
Published: January 2017

Preparation of nontoxic antimicrobial solutions is a priority in the development of new antibiotics. The in vitro effect of the chemical composition of the dispersed phase and dissolved solids in the dispersion medium on the antimicrobial properties of aqueous colloidal solutions of nanoparticles of a number of metals and metal oxides against microorganisms of different species - bacterial dental plaque, Bacillus cereus, and spores of vaccine strain Bacillus anthracis STI - 1 were studied in this work.
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles are Nontoxic for Mouse Embryogenesis In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Chernov Alexander S. , Reshetnikov Dmitry A. , Popov Anton L. , Popova Nelly R. , Savintseva Irina V. , Ivanov Vladimir K.
Published: January 2017

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nanoceria) are considered as one of the most promising nanomaterials for biomedical applications. Complex analysis of cytotoxicity, including the assessment of effects on the reproductive system, is required for development of new biomedical materials. In this study, we investigated the effects of ultra-small citrate-stabilized cerium oxide nanoparticles on the development of mouse embryos in vitro and embryogenesis process in vivo. We have shown that nanoceria in a wide range of concentrations do not exert a toxic effect on the development of 2-cell embryos and embryogenesis.
Students of Humanities about the Nanotechnology Modernization Results
Authors: Chvanova Marina S. , Khramova Marina V. , Morev Dmitriy Ye.
Published: January 2017

The article is about the research of the level of the adequate perseption of humanities students of the nanotechnology modernization results. The necessity of training specialists with adequate perception of nanotechnology modernization results is justified.
Сomposite Powders TiOx/CdS Synthesis and the Study of their Optical and Photocatalytic Properties
Authors: Gavrilenko Ekaterina A. , Biryukov Alexander A.
Published: January 2017

TiOx/CdS composites were synthesized by CdS deposition on TiOx from aqueous solutions of Cd (CH3COO)2 and Na2S with and without addition of a stabilizing agent–Na2SiO3. Initial high-defective TiOx nanocrystalline powders were prepared by pulsed laser ablation (Nd:YAG laser, 1064 nm, 7 ns) of Ti target in H2O. Composites obtained exhibit absorption in the visible range up to 520 nm. On the example of Rhodamine C photodecomposition in water it was revealed that the nanocomposite TiOx/CdS powders obtained exhibit good photocatalytic properties when excited by visible light.
Development of Nanostructured Polymer-Immobilized Anti-Corrosion Barrier-Type Materials, Applied and Operated in Adverse Conditions
Authors: Apanovich Nikolay A. , Borovkova Alexandra V. , Sherstneva Natalia E. , Koryakin Sergey L. , Maksimova Elena Yu. , Kavokin Egor I. , Onosova Ludmila A.
Published: January 2017

Development of modern high-end coatings is a challenge. At this point, the problem of the range and quality of corrosion-resistant materials is one of the most serious in the Russian paint industry. The article deals with some aspects of obtaining anticorrosive materials, applied and operated in adverse conditions. Binder and solvents were selected, were found the optimal working concentration of the film-forming solution, were selected conditions of dispersing. Also was selected anticorrosion pigment, were studied its surface properties, the optimal concentration was chosen.
Evaluating Hydrogen Uptake for Two Types of Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotubes from Nitrogen Adsorption/Desorption Data
Authors: Muratov Dmitry S. , Gromov Sergey
Published: January 2017

Two types of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) were studied by low temperature nitrogen adsorption method. Pore size distribution was calculated using non local density functional theory (NLDFT) and Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH) models. The peaks on pore size distribution were attributed to MWCNT with different diameters. Maximum hydrogen uptake by weight was evaluated for both samples and do not exceed 5 % even for the sample with higher specific surface area.
Improvement of the Mechanical Properties of AZ91D Magnesium Alloys by Deposition of Thin Hydroxyapatite Film
Authors: Melnikov Evgenii S. , Surmeneva Maria A. , Tyurin Alexander I. , Pirozhkova Tatyana S. , Shuvarin Ivan A. , Prymak Oleg , Epple Matthias , Surmenev Roman A.
Published: January 2017

Structural and mechanical behavior of thin hydroxyapatite (HA) films deposited via radio-frequency magnetron sputtering on AZ91D magnesium alloy was investigated. Nanoindentationwas employed to evaluate nanohardness and Young’s modulus of the uncoated and HA-coated AZ91 magnesium alloy. The HA-coated AZ91D magnesium alloy exhibited a higher hardness of 7.1 GPa and a higher modulus of 86 GPa compared withthe uncoated substrate revealing a strong load-bearing capacity.
Research of Influence of Nanotubes Created by Mechanical Activation of Amorphous Carbon on Sprouting of Seeds
Authors: Reva Viktor P. , Yagofarov Vladimir Yu. , Gulevskii Dmitrii A. , Filatenkov Aleksandr E. , Kuryavyi Valerii G.
Published: January 2017

Demonstrated the possibility of using multiwalled carbon nanotubes formed by means of mechanical activation of amorphous carbon for the stimulation of crop growth. By the example of pepper cultivar Golden Rain and tomato cultivar Bull Heart showed the efficacy of introducing microadditives in the form of carbon nanotubes to the ground.
Comparison - effectiveness of oral steroid versus intratympanic Dexamethasone for sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Rupasinghe R. A. S. T.
Published: January 2017

BackgroundSudden sensory neural hearing loss is an ENT emergency, where 90% are idiopathic. Steroids are the mainstay of treatment, but the best mode of delivery need to be determined. AimThis study was carried out to determine the effectiveness of oral steroid versus intratympanic Dexamethasone for sudden onset sensory neural hearing loss MethodProspective, interventional, randomised, comparative study was carried out at the ENT unit at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka from September 2013 to August 2015. Results7 patients who met the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated in to two groups, and were treated with oral Prednisolone and Intratympanic Dexamethasone, which included 23 males and 14 females (n=37). Within the present study, 85% (17/20) patients who had oral Prednisolone and 94.10% (16/17) patients who had intratympanic Dexamethasone clinically improved after treatment. Overall improvement following ITD is significantly higher 94.10% (P<0.01). There were no adverse effects reported. ConclusionIntratympanic dexamethasone (ITD) is an effective treatment modality for patients presenting with sudden onset sensorineural hearing loss, compared to high dose oral steroids. Hearing improvement in low and mid frequencies are 100% compared to high frequencies. Early diagnosis and treatment, gave best results.
A Database of Human Immune Receptor Alleles Recovered from Population Sequencing Data
Authors: Yu Yaxuan , Ceredig Rhodri , Seoighe Cathal
Published: January 2017

High-throughput sequencing data from TCRs and Igs can provide valuable insights into the adaptive immune response, but bioinformatics pipelines for analysis of these data are constrained by the availability of accurate and comprehensive repositories of TCR and Ig alleles. We have created an analytical pipeline to recover immune receptor alleles from genome sequencing data. Applying this pipeline to data from the 1000 Genomes Project we have created Lym1K, a collection of immune receptor alleles that combines known, well-supported alleles with novel alleles found in the 1000 Genomes Project data. We show that Lym1K leads to a significant improvement in the alignment of short read sequences from immune receptors and that the addition of novel alleles discovered from genome sequence data are likely to be particularly significant for comprehensive analysis of populations that are not currently well represented in existing repositories of immune alleles.
Mycotic rhinitis in a Mutton Merino ewe
Authors: Leask Rhoda , Steyl Johan
Published: January 2017

Although nasal masses are uncommon in sheep and may have several causes, including neoplasia and bacterial, fungal and viral infections, these lesions may lead to economic losses resulting from weight loss and even death. It is therefore important to differentiate between various categories of upper respiratory tract obstructions and lower respiratory tract infections. The correct aetiological diagnosis of obstructive masses is essential for appropriate treatment and management to be given or action to be taken. The presentation, clinical signs, treatment and pathology of a case of suspected mycotic rhinitis in a 6-year-old Mutton Merino ewe, are described.
Reading competency of first-year undergraduate students at University of Botswana: A case study
Authors: Ntereke Beauty B. , Ramoroka Boitumelo T.
Published: January 2017

The ability to read and interpret textbooks and other assigned material is a critical component of success at university level. Therefore, the aims of this study are twofold: to evaluate the reading levels of first-year students when they first enter the university to determine how adequately prepared they are for university reading. It is also to find out if there will be any significant improvement after going through the academic literacy course offered to first-year students. The participants were 51 first-year undergraduate humanities students enrolled in the Communication and Academic Literacy course at the University of Botswana. The data were collected through a reading test adopted from Zulu which was administered at the beginning of the first semester. The same test was administered at the end of the semester after the students had gone through the academic literacy course to see if there was any difference in performance. The findings of this study indicate that there is a mixed and wide variation of students reading competency levels when students first enter the university and that a significant number of first-year entrants are inadequately prepared for university reading.
Maurer–Cartan Elements in the Lie Models of Finite Simplicial Complexes
Authors: Buijs Urtzi , Félix Yves , Murillo Aniceto , Tanré Daniel
Published: January 2017

In a previous work, we associated a complete diòerential graded Lie algebra to any finite simplicial complex in a functorial way. Similarly, we also have a realization functor fromthe category of complete diòerential graded Lie algebras to the category of simplicial sets. We have already interpreted the homology of a Lie algebra in terms of homotopy groups of its realization. In this paper, we begin a dictionary between models and simplicial complexes by establishing a correspondence between the Deligne groupoid of the model and the connected components of the finite simplicial complex.
Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii Antibodies Among Ruminants and Occupationally Exposed People in Thailand, 2012–2013
Authors: Doung-ngern Pawinee , Chuxnum Teerasak , Pangjai Decha , Opaschaitat Pattarin , Kittiwan Nattinee , Rodtian Pranee , Buameetoop Noppawan , Kersh Gilbert J. , Padungtod Pawin
Published: January 2017

Little is known about the burden of Q fever in Thailand. We conducted a serological study to describe the prevalence of anti-Coxiella burnetii antibodies among ruminants and occupationally exposed persons in response to the report of the first two Q fever endocarditis patients in Thailand in 2012. We randomly selected ruminant sera from brucellosis surveillance and examined sera of 661 occupationally exposed subjects from two provinces of Thailand: Chiangmai and Nakornratchasima. Animal and human sera were tested using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Environmental samples, vaginal swab, and milk from cows in Chiangmai farms with detectable anti-C. burnetii serum antibodies were tested using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among the 1,632 animal sera tested, 64 (3.9%) were seropositive. The prevalence was highest in dairy cattle (4.6%, 45/988), followed by goats (3.5%, 18/516) and sheep (2.1%, 1/48). The prevalence of anti-C. burnetii antibodies in each species varied significantly by province: the prevalence in cattle was higher in Chiangmai (5.5% versus 0%), however, the prevalence in sheep and goats was higher in Nakornratchasima (5.9% versus 1.0%). Four out of 60 milk samples were positive by PCR (6.7%). No environmental samples were positive. Among 661 human samples, 83 (12.6%) were ELISA positive. Seroprevalence was statistically higher in Chiangmai compare with Nakornratchasima (42.8% versus 3.0%). Coxiella burnetii infection exists in Thailand, but the prevalence varies by geographic distribution and animal reservoirs. Further studies focusing on the burden and risk factors of C. burnetii infection among high-risk groups should be conducted.
Successfully Managed Acute Transverse Myelitis Related to Scrub Typhus and Serial Image Findings
Authors: Yun Jae Sung , Song Ji Soo , Choi Eun Jung , Hwang Jeong-Hwan , Lee Chang-Seop , Park Eun Hae
Published: January 2017

Central nervous system involvement manifesting as meningitis or meningoencephalitis is a known complication of scrub typhus, but very few spinal cord lesions such as acute transverse myelitis (ATM) have been reported in association with this disease. Scrub typhus patients with a spinal lesion present with neurologic symptoms including dysuria, motor, and sensory weakness. Herein, we describe a rare case of ATM associated with scrub typhus. Clinical characteristics, cerebrospinal fluid cytology, Orientia tsutsugamushi serum antibody titer, and serial magnetic resonance imaging scans resulted in a diagnosis of ATM associated with scrub typhus.
Characterization of the Histopathologic Features in Patients in the Early and Late Phases of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Saldanha Maíra G. , Queiroz Adriano , Machado Paulo Roberto L. , de Carvalho Lucas P. , Scott Phillip , de Carvalho Filho Edgar M. , Arruda Sérgio
Published: January 2017

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), characterized by an ulcerated lesion, is the most common clinical form of human leishmaniasis. Before the ulcer develops, patients infected with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis present a small papule at the site of the sandfly bite, referred to as early cutaneous leishmaniasis (E-CL). Two to four weeks later the typical ulcer develops, which is considered here as late CL (L-CL). Although there is a great deal known about T-cell responses in patients with L-CL, there is little information about the in situ inflammatory response in E-CL. Histological sections of skin biopsies from 15 E-CL and 28 L-CL patients were stained by hematoxilin and eosin to measure the area infiltrated by cells, as well as tissue necrosis. Leishmania braziliensis amastigotes, CD4+, CD8+, CD20+, and CD68+ cells were identified and quantified by immunohistochemistry. The number of amastigotes in E-CL was higher than in L-CL, and the inflammation area was larger in classical ulcers than in E-CL. There was no relationship between the number of parasites and magnitude of the inflammation area, or with the lesion size. However, there was a direct correlation between the number of macrophages and the lesion size in E-CL, and between the number of macrophages and necrotic area throughout the course of the disease. These positive correlations suggest that macrophages are directly involved in the pathology of L. braziliensis–induced lesions.
Grammomys surdaster, the Natural Host for Plasmodium berghei Parasites, as a Model to Study Whole-Organism Vaccines Against Malaria
Authors: Conteh Solomon , Anderson Charles , Lambert Lynn , Orr-Gonzalez Sachy , Herrod Jessica , Robbins Yvette L. , Carter Dariyen , Karhemere Stomy Bin Shamamba , Pyana Pati , Büscher Philippe , Duffy Patrick E.
Published: January 2017

Inbred mice are commonly used to test candidate malaria vaccines, but have been unreliable for predicting efficacy in humans. To establish a more rigorous animal model, we acquired African woodland thicket rats of the genus Grammomys, the natural hosts for Plasmodium berghei. Thicket rats were acquired and identified as Grammomys surdaster by skull and teeth measurements and mitochondrial DNA genotyping. Herein, we demonstrate that thicket rats are highly susceptible to infection by P. berghei, and moderately susceptible to Plasmodium yoelii and Plasmodium chabaudi: 1–2 infected mosquito bites or 25–100 sporozoites administered by intravenous injection consistently resulted in patent parasitemia with P. berghei, and resulted in patent parasitemia with P. yoelii and P. chabaudi strains for at least 50% of animals. We then assessed efficacy of whole-organism vaccines to induce sterile immunity, and compared the thicket rat model to conventional mouse models. Using P. berghei ANKA radiation-attenuated sporozoites, and P. berghei ANKA and P. yoelii chemoprophylaxis vaccination approaches, we found that standard doses of vaccine sufficient to protect laboratory mice for a long duration against malaria challenge, are insufficient to protect thicket rats, which require higher doses of vaccine to achieve even short-term sterile immunity. Thicket rats may offer a more stringent and pertinent model for evaluating whole-organism vaccines.
Modeling the Ecological Niche of Bacillus anthracis to Map Anthrax Risk in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Blackburn Jason K. , Matakarimov Saitbek , Kozhokeeva Sabira , Tagaeva Zhyldyz , Bell Lindsay K. , Kracalik Ian T. , Zhunushov Asankadyr
Published: January 2017

Anthrax, caused by the environmental bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is an important zoonosis nearly worldwide. In Central Asia, anthrax represents a major veterinary and public health concern. In the Republic of Kyrgyzstan, ongoing anthrax outbreaks have been reported in humans associated with handling infected livestock and contaminated animal by-products such as meat or hides. The current anthrax situation has prompted calls for improved insights into the epidemiology, ecology, and spatial distribution of the disease in Kyrgyzstan to better inform control and surveillance. Disease control for both humans and livestock relies on annual livestock vaccination ahead of outbreaks. Toward this, we used a historic database of livestock anthrax reported from 1932 to 2006 mapped at high resolution to develop an ecological niche model–based prediction of B. anthracis across Kyrgyzstan and identified spatial clusters of livestock anthrax using a cluster morphology statistic. We also defined the seasonality of outbreaks in livestock. Cattle were the most frequently reported across the time period, with the greatest number of cases in late summer months. Our niche models defined four areas as suitable to support pathogen persistence, the plateaus near Talas and Bishkek, the valleys of western Kyrgyzstan along the Fergana Valley, and the low-lying areas along the shore of Lake Isyk-Kul. These areas should be considered “at risk” for livestock anthrax and subsequent human cases. Areas defined by the niche models can be used to prioritize anthrax surveillance and inform efforts to target livestock vaccination campaigns.
Dust opacities inside the dust devil column in the Taklimakan Desert
Authors: Luan Zhaopeng , Han Yongxiang , Zhao Tianliang , Liu Feng , Liu Chong , Rood Mark J. , Yang Xinghua , He Qing , Lu Huichao
Published: January 2017

Abstract. The distribution of dust aerosols in dust devils (DDs) is quantitatively characterized here based on a field observation. We applied the digital optical method (DOM) with digital still cameras to quantify the opacity of the DDs in the Taklimakan Desert, China. This study presents the following unique and important results: (1) the distinct horizontal distributions of opacity proved the existence of DDs' eye, similarly to the eye of tropical cyclone; (2) the opacity of the DDs decreases with increasing height; however, the dust aerosols do appear to settle out, and the relatively calm eye leads to a minimum in dust opacity at the eye; (3) the horizontal distribution of opacity is quasi-symmetric with a bimodal across the eye of the DDs, which could be resulted from the ambient air conditions; and (4) a new method is developed for characterizing the three-dimensional structure of DDs based on the observed two-dimensional opacity provided by DOM. This study not only proposes a highly reliable, low-cost and efficient methodology to capture the optical structure of DDs, but it could also provide the information on estimation of dust emissions driven by DDs.
Water availability limits tree productivity, carbon stocks, and carbon residence time in mature forests across the western US
Authors: Berner Logan T. , Law Beverly E. , Hudiburg Tara W.
Published: January 2017

Abstract. Water availability constrains the structure and function of terrestrial ecosystems and is projected to change in many parts of the world over the coming century. We quantified the response of tree net primary productivity (NPP), live biomass (BIO), and mean carbon residence time (CRT = BIO / NPP) to spatial variation in water availability in the western US. We used forest inventory measurements from 1953 mature stands (> 100 years) in Washington, Oregon, and California (WAORCA) along with satellite and climate data sets covering the western US. We summarized forest structure and function in both domains along a 400 cm yr−1 hydrologic gradient, quantified with a climate moisture index (CMI) based on the difference between precipitation and reference evapotranspiration summed over the water year (October–September) and then averaged annually from 1985 to 2014 (CMIwy). Median NPP, BIO, and CRT computed at 10 cm yr−1 intervals along the CMIwy gradient increased monotonically with increasing CMIwy across both WAORCA (rs = 0.93–0.96, p < 0.001) and the western US (rs = 0.93–0.99, p < 0.001). Field measurements from WAORCA showed that median NPP increased from 2.2 to 5.6 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 between the driest and wettest 5 % of sites, while BIO increased from 26 to 281 Mg C ha−1 and CRT increased from 11 to 49 years. The satellite data sets revealed similar changes over the western US, though these data sets tended to plateau in the wettest areas, suggesting that additional efforts are needed to better quantify NPP and BIO from satellites in high-productivity, high-biomass forests. Our results illustrate that long-term average water availability is a key environmental constraint on tree productivity, carbon storage, and carbon residence time in mature forests across the western US, underscoring the need to assess potential ecosystem response to projected warming and drying over the coming century.
Inverse stochastic-dynamic models for high-resolution Greenland ice-core records
Authors: Boers Niklas , Chekroun Mickael D. , Liu Honghu , Kondrashov Dmitri , Rousseau Denis-Didier , Svensson Anders , Bigler Matthias , Ghil Michael
Published: January 2017

Abstract. Proxy records from Greenland ice cores have been studied for several decades, yet many open questions remain regarding the climate variability encoded therein. Here, we use a Bayesian framework for inferring inverse, stochastic-dynamic models from δ18O and dust records of unprecedented, subdecadal temporal resolution. The records stem from the North Greenland Ice Core Project (NGRIP) and we focus on the time interval 59 ka–22 ka b2k. Our model reproduces the dynamical characteristics of both the δ18O and dust proxy records, including the millennial-scale Dansgaard–Oeschger variability, as well as statistical properties such as probability density functions, waiting times and power spectra, with no need for any external forcing. The crucial ingredients for capturing these properties are (i) high-resolution training data; (ii) cubic drift terms; (iii) nonlinear coupling terms between the δ18O and dust time series; and (iv) non-Markovian contributions that represent short-term memory effects.
Satellite-derived light extinction coefficient and its impact on thermal structure simulations in a 1-D lake model
Authors: Zolfaghari Kiana , Duguay Claude R. , Kheyrollah Pour Homa
Published: January 2017

Abstract. A global constant value of the extinction coefficient (Kd) is usually specified in lake models to parameterize water clarity. This study aimed to improve the performance of the 1-D freshwater lake (FLake) model using satellite-derived Kd for Lake Erie. The CoastColour algorithm was applied to MERIS satellite imagery to estimate Kd. The constant (0.2 m−1) and satellite-derived Kd values as well as radiation fluxes and meteorological station observations were then used to run FLake for a meteorological station on Lake Erie. Results improved compared to using the constant Kd value (0.2 m−1). No significant improvement was found in FLake-simulated lake surface water temperature (LSWT) when Kd variations in time were considered using a monthly average. Therefore, results suggest that a time-independent, lake-specific, and constant satellite-derived Kd value can reproduce LSWT with sufficient accuracy for the Lake Erie station. A sensitivity analysis was also performed to assess the impact of various Kd values on the simulation outputs. Results show that FLake is sensitive to variations in Kd to estimate the thermal structure of Lake Erie. Dark waters result in warmer spring and colder fall temperatures compared to clear waters. Dark waters always produce colder mean water column temperature (MWCT) and lake bottom water temperature (LBWT), shallower mixed layer depth (MLD), longer ice cover duration, and thicker ice. The sensitivity of FLake to Kd variations was more pronounced in the simulation of MWCT, LBWT, and MLD. The model was particularly sensitive to Kd values below 0.5 m−1. This is the first study to assess the value of integrating Kd from the satellite-based CoastColour algorithm into the FLake model. Satellite-derived Kd is found to be a useful input parameter for simulations with FLake and possibly other lake models, and it has potential for applicability to other lakes where Kd is not commonly measured.
Recent changes in area and thickness of Torngat Mountain glaciers (northern Labrador, Canada)
Authors: Barrand Nicholas E. , Way Robert G. , Bell Trevor , Sharp Martin J.
Published: January 2017

Abstract. The Torngat Mountains National Park, northern Labrador, Canada, contains more than 120 small glaciers: the only remaining glaciers in continental northeast North America. These small cirque glaciers exist in a unique topo-climatic setting, experiencing temperate maritime summer conditions yet very cold and dry winters, and may provide insights into the deglaciation dynamics of similar small glaciers in temperate mountain settings. Due to their size and remote location, very little information exists regarding the health of these glaciers. Just a single study has been published on the contemporary glaciology of the Torngat Mountains, focusing on net mass balances from 1981 to 1984. This paper addresses the extent to which glaciologically relevant climate variables have changed in northern Labrador in concert with 20th-century Arctic warming, and how these changes have affected Torngat Mountain glaciers. Field surveys and remote-sensing analyses were used to measure regional glacier area loss of 27 % from 1950 to 2005, substantial rates of ice surface thinning (up to 6 m yr−1) and volume losses at Abraham, Hidden, and Minaret glaciers, between 2005 and 2011. Glacier mass balances appear to be controlled by variations in winter precipitation and, increasingly, by strong summer and autumn atmospheric warming since the early 1990s, though further observations are required to fully understand mass balance sensitivities. This study provides the first comprehensive contemporary assessment of Labrador glaciers and will inform both regional impact assessments and syntheses of global glacier mass balance.
External Social Accounting Developments: Analysis and Discussion of Academic Critiques
Authors: Alhumoudi Hamad
Published: January 2017

This paper aims to analyse and discuss the development of external social accounting (ESA). In this paper, the ESA is defined as the firm’s representation of its operations and their effects on society. The initial development of this concept began in the 1920s and it went through remarkable developments and achievements to arrive at its current stage at this time. This paper have reviewed the literature in development of this concept and it found that there are great developments in the area of ESA reporting, but that also a number of critical issues have been identified including reporting-performance gaps regarding deficiencies from the disclosure practice and social auditing practice. There are also evidences that a number of firms portray their contribution in ways that makes them appear generous, whereas, in the majority of cases, this can be established as untrue. This paper contributes to the existing literature by gathering many concepts (i.e. CSR, social accounting reporting) under the name of external social accounting, which mainly focus in the reporting of social activities. Also it contributes to the literature by providing an overview of the development and its critiques.
ERROS DE MEDICAÇÃO E GRAU DE DANO AO PACIENTE EM HOSPITAL ESCOLA
Authors: Borges Miriam Cristina , Faria Josimerci Ittavo Lamana , Jabur Maria Regina Lourenço , De Oliveira Kleber Aparecido , Zborowski Ilza Dos Passos , Beccaria Lúcia Marinilza
Published: January 2017

O estudo teve como objetivos verificar a incidência de erros e quase erros de medicação e grau de dano ao paciente, e a associação entre o grau de dano e características sociodemográficas e da internação. Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, com abordagem quantitativa, realizado em hospital no interior do estado de São Paulo. Os dados foram coletados por meio do sistema de notificação de eventos adversos e prontuário eletrônico, entre setembro/2014 e agosto/2015. Verificou-se 113 notificações de erros, a maioria relacionada ao preparo e administração; o quase erro apresentou pequena porcentagem; os danos foram classificados: 60 (53,1%) nenhum, 29 (25,7%) leve, 16 (14,1%) moderado e oito (7,1%) grave. Houve maior notificação em unidades clínico-cirúrgicas, e evidenciou-se relação entre gravidade do evento e pacientes de terapia intensiva. Notificar, mensurar e analisar a ocorrência, o grau de dano e relacionar com as características do paciente auxiliam o enfermeiro a melhorar o processo de trabalho na prevenção e controle dos erros de medicação.
QUEDA DE RECÉM-NASCIDO INTERNADO EM ALOJAMENTO CONJUNTO
Authors: Torino Vanessa Vieira , Tsunechiro Maria Alice , Santos Adriana Uehara , Aragaki Ilva Marico Mizumoto , Shimoda Gilcéria Tochika
Published: January 2017

O objetivo foi descrever as ocorrências de queda de recém-nascido em ambiente hospitalar. Estudo descritivo realizado em uma maternidade pública de ensino da cidade de São Paulo. As informações foram obtidas dos registros das Fichas de Notificação de Ocorrências e prontuários dos recém-nascidos que sofreram queda no alojamento conjunto, em 2013. Foram encontrados registros de quatro quedas não intencionais de recém-nascidos, indicando uma incidência de 11,36 quedas por 10.000 nascidos vivos. Três casos ocorreram no período noturno. As consequências para os neonatos abrangem desde nenhum ferimento até lesões moderadas como edema, hiperemia em têmpora e joelho, fratura em osso parietal e hematoma, que evoluíram em boas condições. Os achados acerca das circunstâncias das quedas podem auxiliar na compreensão desses acidentes e mostram a necessidade de implantação de estratégias de prevenção das quedas que proporcionem o cuidado multiprofissional em ambiente seguro e promovam a educação da mãe, familiares e profissionais.
Working Hour and Intention to Have Children in Hong Kong Full-Time Workers
Authors: Young Fanny Yuk Fun
Published: January 2017

This study investigated the working hour, work-life balance and intention to have children of full-time workers in a place without Standard Working Hour legislation and with very low birth rate, Hong Kong. Method used a questionnaire survey with 200 below 35, married, full-time workers. Results showed these workers had longer working hour (49.3 hours/week) than many other places in the World (40 hours/week). Most participants (around 70 percent) reported prolonged fatigue level, sleepiness and extreme tiredness and did not have time staying with their partner and family. The mean intention to have children score was 2.045 out of 5. Correlation analysis was performed between working hour and intention to have children. There exist an inverse relationship between working hour and intention to have children (r= - 0.779). A plotting of the working hour against intention to have children showed some linear relationship between the working hour and intention to have children. Therefore, in general the workers with longer working hour were having lower intention to have children. To conclude, workers in Hong Kong, without Standard Working Hour legislation, had long working hours, poor work-life balance and low intention to have children.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Sustainable Agriculture Research, Vol. 6, No. 1
Authors: Lee Joan
Published: January 2017

Sustainable Agriculture Research wishes to acknowledge the following individuals for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Their help and contributions in maintaining the quality of the journal are greatly appreciated.Sustainable Agriculture Research is recruiting reviewers for the journal. If you are interested in becoming a reviewer, we welcome you to join us. Please find the application form and details at http://www.ccsenet.org/reviewer and e-mail the completed application form to sar@ccsenet.org. Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 1Abha Mishra, Asian Institute of Technology, ThailandAftab Alam, Vice President Agriculture (R&D), Edenworks Inc. New York, United StatesAmor Slama, Science Faculty of Bizerte, TunisiaAndre Lindner, Dresden University of Technology, Tropical Forestry, GermanyBernard Palmer Kfuban Yerima, University of Dschang, CameroonBeye Amadou Amadou Moustapha, Rice Research Center, Côte d'IvoireDario Stefanelli, Department of Primary Industries, AustraliaDietrich Darr, Hochschule Rhein-Waal, GermanyInder Pal Singh, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Science University (GADVASU), IndiaIvo Grgic, University of Zagreb, CroatiaJose Antonio Alburquerque, Spanish National Research Council (CEBAS-CSIC), SpainKhaled Sassi, National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, TunisiaMahmoud Shehata Mahmoud, Alexandria University, EgyptManuel Teles Oliveira, University Tras os Montes Alto Douro (UTAD), PortugalMirela Kopjar, University of Osijek, CroatiaMohammad Valipour, Payame Noor University, IranMurtazain Raza, Subsidiary of Habib Bank AG Zurich, PakistanNehemie Tchinda Donfagsiteli, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, CameroonRabia Rehman, University of the Punjab, PakistanRoberto José Zoppolo, Instituto Nacional de Investigación Agropecuaria (Uruguay), UruguaySilviu Beciu, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Bucharest, RomaniaStefano Marino, University of Molise, ItalySubbu Kumarappan, Ohio State ATI, United StatesSuheb Mohammed, University of Virginia, United StatesTunde Akim Omokanye, Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA), CanadaWei Wang, Vanderbilt University, United States