bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resveratrol reverses Doxorubicin resistance by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) through modulating PTEN/Akt signaling pathway in gastric cancer
Authors: Xu Jiahui , Liu Deying , Niu Huilin , Zhu Guifang , Xu Yangwei , Ye Danli , Li Jian , Zhang Qingling
Published: January 2017

Background

Gastric cancer is one of the major causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Most of patients presenting with inoperable gastric cancers rely on systemic chemotherapy for prolongation of survival. Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the important agents against gastric cancer. Acquired DOX-resistance severely impedes the chemotherapeutic effect, invariably leading to poor prognosis. Resveratrol (RES) as a kind of phytoalexin has demonstrated anti-tumor functions in breast cancer and myeloid leukemia, but its function and mechanism are still unknown in gastric cancer treatment.

Methods

CCK8 assay was used to detect the cytotoxicity of DOX and RES to gastric cancer cells. DOX-resistant subclone cell line (SGC7901/DOX) was derived from SGC7901 cells exposed to stepwise increasing concentrations of DOX treatment. We measured the migratory capabilities of SGC7901/DOX cells by Cell scratch test and Transwell assay. SGC7901/DOX cells were treated with DOX, RES, neither or both. Then we analyzed cell survival by CCK8 assay, colony formation by Colony-forming assay, cell apoptosis by Annexin-V-FITC and PI dual staining assay and cell migration by Cell scratch test and Transwell assay. Western blotting was conducted to detect the protein expressions of PTEN/Akt signaling pathway and EMT-related markers. Immunofluorescence was performed to confirm the EMT-related markers expressions. The xenograft model was used to assess the effect of DOX and RES in vivo. The key molecules associated with proliferation, apoptosis and EMT were evaluated by immunohistochemistry in tumor specimens.

Results

SGC7901/DOX cells acquired drug resistance and enhancive migratory capability. RES enabled SGC7901/DOX cells to regain DOX sensitivity, mitigated the aggressive biological features, promoted cell apoptosis in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistic studies revealed that SGC7901/DOX cells underwent epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) which was induced by Akt activation, and through activating PTEN, RES inhibited the Akt pathway, and then achieved the reversion of EMT.

Conclusion

RES serves as a novel solution to reverse the DOX-resistance of gastric cancer via preventing EMT by modulating PTEN/Akt signaling pathway. DOX-RES combined treatment provides a promising future for gastric cancer patients to postpone drug resistance and prolong survival.
Genome sequence of a high agarase-producing strain Flammeovirga sp. SJP92
Authors: Dong Qi , Ruan Lingwei , Shi Hong
Published: January 2017

Flammeovirga sp. SJP92 is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, non-motile and non-flagellated strain that belongs to the family Flammeovirgaceae of the class Cytophagia. The strain was isolated from the intestine of abalone, which produces many extracellular agarases and exhibits efficient degradation activities on various polysaccharides, especially agarose. Here we present the high-quality draft genome of Flammeovirga sp. SJP92, together with its phenotypic characteristics. The genome sequence is 8, 534, 834 bp, which comprised with one chromosome and no plasmid. It contained 6, 291 protein-coding and 99 RNA genes, including 93 tRNA, 5 rRNA and 1 ncRNA genes.
Food and nutrition security: pesticide residues in food
Authors: Gerage Jacqueline Mary , Meira Ana Paula Gasques , da Silva Marina Vieira
Published: January 2017

The article aims to present an overview of pesticide usage and population exposure, focusing on the impact on health and the correlation with food and nutrition security (FNS). This review is relevant due to the extensive use of pesticides in food production, which exposes individuals in various ways, including the ingestion of contaminated food, with adverse health effects. Brazil is one of the largest consumers of pesticides in the world, with product sale growth above 200% from 2000 to 2013, increasing the predisposition of the population and environment to the impacts caused by these compounds. The country has weaknesses regarding the monitoring of pesticide usage, besides its vulnerable population affected by social and economic problems. Studies on the correlation between pesticides and diseases have shown potential health risks, including birth defects, hearing loss, cancer, and infertility, in addition to symptoms related to acute intoxication, such as weakness, vomiting, seizures, difficulty breathing, loss of appetite, and nosebleed, among others. Reduction policies in pesticide usage and the encouragement for the sustainable agricultural practices should be prioritized by public managers. It is also essential to improve the monitoring and surveillance programs and research on the topic, as well as training of health professionals to identify and report the cases of pesticide poisoning.
A blinded randomised placebo-controlled trial investigating the efficacy of morphine analgesia for procedural pain in infants: Trial protocol
Authors: Slater Rebeccah , Hartley Caroline , Moultrie Fiona , Adams Eleri , Juszczak Ed , Rogers Richard , Norman Jane E. , Patel Chetan , Stanbury Kayleigh , Hoskin Amy , Green Gabrielle ,   Poppi Trial Team
Published: January 2017

Infant pain has both immediate and long-term negative consequences, yet in clinical practice it is often undertreated. To date, few pain-relieving drugs have been tested in infants. Morphine is a potent analgesic that provides effective pain relief in adults, but there is inconclusive evidence for its effectiveness in infants. The purpose of this study is to establish whether oral morphine provides effective analgesia for procedural pain in infants.

A blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel-group randomized, phase II, clinical trial will be undertaken to determine whether morphine sulphate administered orally prior to clinically-required retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening and heel lancing provides effective analgesia.  156 infants between 34 and 42 weeks’ gestational age who require a clinical heel lance and ROP screening on the same test occasion will be included in the trial. Infants will be randomised to receive either a single dose of morphine sulphate (100 μg/kg) or placebo. Each infant will be monitored for 48 hours and safety data will be collected during the 24 hours following drug administration.

The primary outcome will be the Premature Infant Pain Profile–revised (PIPP-R) score during the 30 second periods after ROP screening. The co-primary outcome will be the magnitude of nociceptive-specific brain activity evoked by a clinically-required heel lance. Infant clinical stability will be assessed by comparing the number of episodes of bradycardia, tachycardia, desaturation and apnoea, and changes in respiratory support requirements in the 24-hour periods before and after the clinical intervention. In addition, drug safety will be assessed by considering the occurrence of apnoeic and hypotensive episodes requiring intervention in the 24-hour period following drug administration. This study has been published as an Accepted Protocol Summary by The Lancet.
Fauna and ecology of helminths in cattle (Bos taurus Dom.)
Authors: Шакарбаев  , Shakarbaev U , Гаипова  , Gaipova M , Акрамова  , Akramova F. , Сапаров  , Saparov K , Азимов  , Azimov D
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: The purpose of research is to study the fauna and ecology of helminths in cattle from Central Uzbekistan. Material and methods. The cattle was investigated by the method of complete and incomplete helminthological autopsies. Cestodes, trematodes and nematodes were examined using the common methods. Larvae of trematodes and nematodes from dominant parasite species found in intermediate hosts (molluscs, insects, ants and dipterous) are also described in this paper. Results and discussion: 32 helminth species were identified in cattle from the central region of Uzbekistan: 5 species belong to the class Cestoda, 6 species — to the class Trematoda and 21 species — to the class Nematoda. Based on the nature of helminth localization in the host body, three groups of parasite communities were detected.
Areas of application of temperature based DDU models for dirofilariasis
Authors: Криворотова  , Krivorotova E. , Нагорный  , Nagornyy S.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: To study the possibility of using temperature-based models for prevention of dirofilariasis. Materials and methods. For mathematical modeling of dirofilariasis we use the HDUstemperature model based on the impact of the average daily temperature on the rate of development of Dirofilaria larvae in mosquitoes. The amount of 130 DDU (Dirofilaria development units) accumulated in the period no more than 30 days at average daily temperature more than 14 °C is required for the development of Dirofilaria up to the infective stage. Daily data on average air temperature in Rostov-on-Don (1996 — 2012), Veliky Novgorod (2008 — 2012), Anapa (2008 -2012) and Astrakhan (2008 -2012) were used for the calculation. Results and discussion. The results of temperature simulation revealed that the DDU model is a low-priority forecasting model for canine dirofilariasis (Pearson’s correlation coefficient minus 0.45). The model considers only the average daily temperature and does not consider other factors affecting the incidence rates. The epidemic season of dirofilariasis in Rostov-on-Don in 1999 — 2012 differed depending on average daily temperatures. Therefore, the earliest date of the transmission of dirofilariasis in that period fell on the 12th of May, 2012; the latest date — on 29th of June, 2001. The optimal time for prevention of canine dirofilariasis has been defined (in Rostov-on-Don, Anapa and Astrakhan microfilaricides should be given to dogs from May 15 to November 15; in Veliky Novgorod — from June 15 to August 31). Thus, DDU-models (Dirofilaria Development Units) can be used to set time limits for epidemiological season of dirofilariasis and preventive treatment of dogs against dirofilaria.
A cross-sectional of Gastro-Intestinal Helminthes of Ruminants by Coprological Examination
Authors: Аль-Албуди  , Al-Aboody Mohammed Saleh
Published: January 2017

In the present study 442 Fecal samples from cattle, buffaloes, and sheep for contamination with helminthes. Samples were examined from 171 cattle, 128 buffaloes, and 143 sheep. The testing, during the period from May 2014 to April 2015, showed that 81 out of 171cattle were positive for helminthes infection (47.3%), with the rate of infection higher in females (55%) than in males (40%). In buffaloes, 41 of 128 tested were positive, a 32% rate of infection. Again, the infection rate was higher in females (47%) than in males (22%). In sheep, the rate of infection was highest of all three species. The results showed that, the infection rate among cattle were 50.3% and Trichostrongyle species were the predominant parasites among both cattle and buffaloes. The prevalence rate was much higher in females than males. Regarding seasonal dynamics the highest infection rates with helminthes reported was in spring season.
Tolerability research of complex antiparasitic preparation «Inspector collar»
Authors: Демин  , Demin A. , Арисов  , Arisov M. , Гламаздин  , Glamazdin Igor , Артемов  , Artemov V.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: To evaluate the tolerability of the drug, “Inspector Collar” based on Fipronil, Pyriproxyfen and Ivermectin in dogs and cats applied at a therapeutic dose and double increased therapeutic doses.

Materials and methods: Research was conducted at the shelter for dogs and cats «Bano Eco» (Moscow). Effect of drug “Inspector Collar” was studied on 15 clinically healthy outbreed dogs between 2 and 6 years with the body mass of 10–14 kg and 15 clinically healthy outbreed cats between 2 and 4 years with the body mass of 2–3,5 kg, receiving complete and balanced nutrition. Animals were divided into six groups (three groups of dogs and three of cats) five animals in each group. Dogs and cats from the first experimental group had put on one collar (equivalent of single therapeutic dose) for 45 days. The second experimental group had put two collars (double therapeutic dose) for 45 days. Animals from the third (control) group did not carry collars. During the experiment, daily supervision of animals was conducted; their general health status, behavior, appetite were observed, body mass and temperature estimated. Before and 15 and 30 days after the beginning of drug application, blood and urine tests were performed to study morphological and biochemical parameters. Statistical processing of data were carried out using Student’s t-test.

Results and discussion: The research results showed that the drug “Inspector Collar” is well tolerated even at double therapeutic dose. All observed indicators remained within the physiological norm.
Determination of fenbendazole and its metabolites in milk by the method of liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass-spectrometry
Authors: Кошеваров  , Koshevarov N. , Абрамов  , Abramov S. , Абрамова  , Abramova E. , Мисюра  , Misyura N. , Абрамов  , Abramov V. , Варламова  , Varlamova A. , Кочетков  , Kochetkov P. , Архипов  , Arkhipov I.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: Development of methods for the determination of fenbendazole and its metabolites in milk by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry.

Materials and methods: Fenbendazole was administered orally to five cows. Samples of milk were taken on 1, 3, 5 and 10 days of drug application. The research method includes a description of reagents, plates and equipment; mass-spectrometric conditions for analysis of fenbendazole and its metabolites; preparation of the equipment to operation; preparation of eluent solution; preparation of the chromatograph to analysis; determination of chromatographic parameters of standard drug samples; preparation of milk samples to analysis; establishment of parameters of extracts’ chromatography; procedure of calibration of fenbendazole and its metabolites in eluent.

Results and discussion: When studying the pharmacokinetics of fenbendazole and its metabolites (sulfone and sulfoxide) in milk, it was found that the maximal concentrations were determined 24 h after drug administration and were 22,6 ng/ml for fenbendazole sulfone, 34,0 ng/ml for fenbendazole sulfoxide and 19,7 ng/ml for fenbendazole. 10 days after treatment, the concentrations of fenbendazole and its metabolites in milk did not exceed permitted values.
Assessment of effects of drugs Aversect Forte and Aversect Combi on embryonic development of the rat
Authors: Семенова  , Semenova M. , Ковешникова  , Koveshnikova E.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research: To estimate the effect of new combination drugs Aversect Forte and Aversect Combi on rats.

Materials and methods: The present experiment for the evaluation of eventual embyotoxic and teratogenic properties of drugs Aversect Forte and Aversect Combi was conducted on 32 female and 8 male rats based on the current methodological guidelines. Pregnant female rats were divided into 2 experimental and 2 control groups. Drugs were applied between the 7th and the 14th day of pregnancy taking into account the highest sensitivity of embryos towards different types of influence within this time period.

Aversect Forte and Aversect Combi were injected to pregnant rats subcutaneously at a dose of 0,3 mg a.i./kg of individual body weight. Rats from the control group received a forming mixture in comparable volume. Within the whole period of pregnancy, we observed the general clinical condition of female rats.

Results and discussion: Effects of new domestic preparations Aversect Forte and Aversect Combi on the antenatal development of the rat via subcutaneous injection of preparations to female rats at a dose of 0,3 mg a.i./kg between the 7th and the 14th day of pregnancy were estimated. The test preparations did not cause any external and internal developmental anomalies; indicators of embryo death, mass and dimensions of embryos were at the actual level of control and physiological parameters for that type of animals.
The conceptual basis of integrated, environmentally friendly system for the protection of major crops from cyst nematodes
Authors: Бабич  , Babich A. , Бабич  , Babich A.
Published: January 2017

Objective of research. To elaborate a framework for integrated protection of agricultural crops from oat, sugar beet, Golden potato, alfalfa and clover nematodes.

Materials and methods. The effectiveness of different anti-nematode measures was studied in 1991-2016 in Vinnyza, Kiev, Sumy, Chernigov and other regions of Ukraine. As research material served samples of soil, plants; eggs, larvae, imago; beet, oat, Golden potato, alfalfa and clover cyst nematodes. Preparation of temporary and permanent slides, determination of the species composition of cyst nematodes were carried out by standard methods [3, 6].

Results and discussion. The framework of integrated protection of agricultural crops from oat, sugar beet, Golden potato, alfalfa and clover nematodes has been elaborated. To prevent mass reproduction of cyst-forming nematodes, the saturation of crop rotations with host plants must not exceed 40% — with cereal grains; 20% — beet and oilseed Brassica (canola, radish, and mustard); 15% — potatoes; 20% — perennial legumes. Involvement of crops and green manure in the by-products cycle has a positive effect on the level of soil fertility and activation of life activity of natural antagonists of Heteroderidae
Information Sensitivity and Willingness to Provide Continua: A Comparative Privacy Study of the United States and Brazil
Authors: Markos Ereni , Milne George R. , Peltier James W.
Published: January 2017

This article develops information continua for (1) the perceived sensitivity of data and (2) consumers’ willingness to disclose information that can be used to evaluate information attitudes of U.S. and Brazilian consumers. Using a cross-national survey between U.S. and Brazilian consumers, this research examines how consumers’ perceived sensitivity and willingness to provide information are affected by country of origin, age, perceived privacy control, consumer data relationship (with a friend, marketer, trusted marketer, or unknown marketer), and type of information (whether it is personally identifiable information or linkable). The findings provide public policy insights into potential market solutions and regulatory approaches that bridge the gap between marketers’ need for personalizing customer relationships and consumers’ preferences for information privacy.
The Making of the Shareholder Primacy Governance Model: Price Theory, the Law and Economics School, and Corporate Law Retrenchment Advocacy
Authors: Styhre Alexander
Published: January 2017

Shareholder welfare (also addressed as shareholder primacy and shareholder value in the corporate governance and economics theory literature, and here used interchangeably with the more generic term shareholder welfare) has been fortified in the present regime of investor capitalism and is today widely normalized and taken for granted. However, when examining the theoretical tenets, operative methodologies, and stated preferences regarding the virtues of efficiency as a primary economic objective, and wider assumptions regarding alleged costs generated in the corporate system on the basis of managerial discretion and extant corporate legislation and court rulings, the advocacy of the benefits of shareholder welfare is compromised considerably; i. e., it is based on unjustified preferences and far from irrefutable propositions. Tracing the roots of agency theory and its forceful defence of shareholder welfare back to Chicago economics price theory and its application in law and economics scholarship, instituted in the early 1960s, theoretical inconsistencies in the predominant corporate governance model are demonstrated, accompanied by empirical materials that discredit the claim that the market for corporate control can replace, at low cost, the management discretion governance model. The study thus contributes to the critique of the role of shareholder welfare advocacy in investor capitalism.
The Algebraic Operations and Their Implementation Based on a Two-Layer Cloud Data Model
Authors: Li Ying , Dong Baotian
Published: January 2017

The existing cloud data models cannot meet the management requirements of structured data very well including a great deal of relational data, therefore a two-layer cloud data model is proposed. The composite object is defined to model the nested data in the representation layer, while a 4-tuple is defined to model the non-nested data in the storage layer. Referring the relational algebra, the concept of SNO (Simple Nested Object) is defined as basic operational unit of the algebraic operations; the formal definitions of the algebraic operations consisting of the set operations and the query operations on the representation layer are proposed. The algorithm of extracting all SNOs from a CAO (Component-Attribute-Object) set of a composite object is proposed firstly as the foundation, and then as the idea; the pseudo code implementation of algorithms of the algebraic operations on the storage layer are proposed. Logic proof and example proof indicate that the definition and the algorithms of the algebraic operations are correct.
Analysis of Various ESDD of Contaminant Insulator Flashover Acoustic Signal by Wavelet Packet
Authors: Wang Hong Kun , Wang Shou Xiang , Nie Jing
Published: January 2017

With the formation of China’s large power grid, the security of the network is particularly important. The contaminant flashover of insulators has a serious impact on the operation safety of a high voltage power network. In this paper, the acoustic signals’ characteristics of the contaminant insulators flashover are analyzed, and, as a result, the correlation between the acoustic signal and the contaminant insulator flashover is established. To experiment with contaminant insulator for three different Equivalent Salt Deposit Densities (ESDD), acoustic signals were collected separately. Then, the contaminant insulators’ acoustic signals of flashover were analyzed by wavelet packet. The characteristics of the signals were obtained, and they can be judged for contaminant flashover warning.
The Predictors of the Willingness to Recommend a Visit for Diversified Tourism Attractions
Authors: Lesjak Miha , Navrátil Josef , Pícha Kamil , White Baravalle Gilliam Vivian L.
Published: January 2017

The predictors of a positive word-of-mouth experience as an important destination loyalty factor among tourist in the Šumava and South Bohemian Touristic Regions were studied via structural equation modelling. The perception of quality, on-site experience, and the perception of value as the mediators between the motivation to visit and the word-of-mouth experience were studied. The pleasant ‘natural’ environment, the history, the accessibility, and the closeness were found as the pull motivation factors. Social gathering, education, self-reflection, and relaxation were revealed as the push motivation factors. Speaking of the common-place factors, the complexity, the novelty, and the density were all identified as factors of perception of the visited environment. The on-site experience is given by pleasure, arousal, and dominance feelings. The model ‘motivation to visit → quality of environment → on-site experience → perceived value of environment → satisfaction with visit → willingness to recommend the visit’ was found as being appropriate for the collected data.
Destination Quality Perception in the Context of Different Behavioural Characteristics of Visitors
Authors: Ryglová Kateřina , Vajčnerová Ida , Šácha Jakub
Published: January 2017

Visitors’ perceptions of the quality of a tourism destination are fundamental for effective destination management and marketing. This paper deals with the topic of destination quality from the viewpoint of demand, i.e. from the viewpoint of a destination visitor. The results of perceiving the destination quality partial factors in the context of different behavioural characteristics of a visitor are presented, particularly, the way how spending and organizing a holiday influences the perception of destination quality factors (Kruskal-Wallis test). The research nineteen factors were designed on the basis of contemporary theories and on qualitative research. Some important quality aspects related to tourism were identified and assessed for the Czech population. The primary data were obtained through a questionnaire survey with quota sampling (n = 1097). The dependence of destination quality perception on the way of spending the holiday was revealed in the case of 8 factors (e.g., Availability of transportation to the destination, Availability and quality of information; Additional infrastructure, Sense of security, Destination cleanliness, Uniqueness of destination, Price level in the destination, Cultural monuments). The significant differences identified among various groups of respondents are described in detail in this study. The research findings contribute to better understanding of the behavioural mechanism and can be used by destination managers to design communication strategies for different segments of consumers for individual destinations to improve their competiveness.
Optimization of microfluidic gallotannic acid extraction using artificial neural network and genetic algorithm
Authors: Yasemi Mahnaz , Rahimi Masoud , Heydarinasab Amir , Ardjmand Mehdi
Published: January 2017

The current study presents the outcomes of modeling and optimizing extraction of gallotannic acid from Quercus leaves using a microfluidic system. In this study, the effects of various experimental parameters were investigated using the method of design expert. Number of experiments suggested is 31 by central composite design of Design Expert. The experimental results of design expert were analyzed by artificial neural network (ANN). Based on the results of ANN, independent variables experiment: temperature (T), flow rate ratio (FR) and pH have shown a negative effect on extraction yield (dependent variable), while the residence time (RT) has shown a positive effect. In trained network,
${R^2} = 0.9805$
and RMSE = 0.0166 shows good agreement between the predicted values of ANN and experimental results. Optimum extraction conditions, to reach maximum yield by genetic algorithms (GA), were FR = 0.53, RT = 26.4, pH = 2.06 and T = 21.44
${R^2} = 0.9805$
. The extraction yield under the optimum predicated conditions was 96.4 %, which was well matched with the experimental value 95.01 %
$\pm 0.63$
. Based on the obtained results, it was found that the ANN model could be employed successfully in estimating the gallotannic acid extraction efficiency using microfluidic extraction method.
Evaluation of a community-based positive youth development program for adolescents with greater psychosocial needs: views of the program participants
Authors: Shek Daniel T.L. , Ma Cecilia M.S. , Law Moon Y.M. , Zhao Zoe
Published: January 2017

The present study attempted to investigate the perceptions of Chinese secondary school students with greater psychosocial needs of the Tier 2 Program in the community-based phase of P.A.T.H.S. Project in Hong Kong (n=4245). Using a subjective outcome evaluation tool (Form C), the results revealed that a great majority of the students held positive attitudes toward the program, implementers and the effectiveness of the program. Also, the three domains of the program (“program quality”, “implementer quality” and “program effectiveness”) were significantly associated with each other. In line with previous findings, both program content and program implementer quality were significant predictors of program effectiveness. The current findings further reinforce the thesis that the community-based Tier 2 programs of the P.A.T.H.S. Project are effective in promoting the holistic development of adolescents with greater psychosocial needs in Hong Kong.
Generation Efficiency of the Hydroxyl Radical Adduct of the DMPO Spin Trap in Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Media
Authors: Sun Lizhong , Hoy Aitken R. , Bolton James R.
Published: January 2017

The generation efficiency of the hydroxyl radical adduct (DMPO-OH) from the spin trap 5,5-dimethyl-1- pyrroline N-oxide (DMPO) has been determined, both in a homogeneous system (H
Plasma Assisted Oxidation of Propene
Authors: Hsiao Mark C. , Merritt Bernard T. , Penetrante Bernie M. , Vogtlin George E. , Wallman P. Henrik , Tonkyn Russell G. , Shah Rahul R. , Orlando Thomas M.
Published: January 2017

Non-thermal plasma processing is an innovative technique for pollutant abatement. This approach involves the use of electrical energy for the production of free radicals which then react with the pollutant molecules. We have studied the oxidation of propene as a prototype hydrocarbon using a packed bed dielectric-barrier discharge reactor to generate the non-thermal plasma. We report the effect of three different types of material filling the reactor: glass, zirconia, and titania. The titania filled reactor shows the greatest selectivity for producing CO
Kinetic Modeling of Free-Radical Water Treatment Processes: Pitfalls, Practicality, and the Extension of the Hoigné/ Bader/ Staehelin Model
Authors: Peyton Gary R.
Published: January 2017

The chemistry involved in free-radical water treatment processes (AOPs) is sufficiently complex that true optimization of the processes is often difficult without the use of kinetic models to allow simulation of the treatment process and optimization via “computer experiments.” Powerful software is now widely available for numerical integration of complex sets of rate equations, such as are encountered in simulations of water treatment using AOPs. However, limited availability of the required rate constants poses a serious barrier to performing meaningful calculations. This problem cannot, in general, be solved by simply using rate constants as optimization parameters in a fit of the experimental data to the chosen equation set. A simpler “semi-empirical” model based on the concept of efficiency was developed, using the work of Hoigne, Bader, and Staehelin during the period 1977-1985 as a starting point. This model was shown to be useful in AOP process optimization, by allowing the identification of reaction steps for which the efficiency can be improved, evaluation of "generic" hydroxyl radical rate constants for complex environmental matrices, and determination of the importance of reactive species other than hydroxyl radical.
Free Radicals Generated in Photocatalytic Oxidation of Some Amines and Diamines
Authors: Chen Ciping , Lu Daohui , Xu Guangzhi
Published: January 2017

Free radical intermediates produced during photocatalytic oxidation of some typical amines and diamines were investigated by a spin trapping technique. The EPR spectra of N-centered radical adduct and Ccentered radical adduct were observed. Experimental results disclose that these radicals are participants in the initial steps of photodegradation of these compounds. A mechanism which is consistent with the observation of these radical species is discussed.
Electron Beam Treatment of Flue Gas with High Content of SO2
Authors: Chmielcwski A. G. , Zimek Z. , Bulka S. , Licki J. , Piderit G. , Villanueva L. , Ahumada L.
Published: January 2017

Flue gas containing high concentrations of sulfur dioxide (up to 15%) was used to investigation the possibility of applying the electron beam process for SO
Removal of NOx from Dry Air by a Pulsed Corona Discharge with Magnetic Field
Authors: Park Jae-youn , Kim Geon-ho , Kim Jong-dal , Koh Hee-seog , Lee Duck-chul
Published: January 2017

The effect of magnetic field on NOx removal characteristics of the Multipins-plate plasma reactor was experimentally investigated. Experiments were conducted for the simulated flue gas (NO: 0.17 %, N
Effect of Gas Temperature on Pulsed Corona Discharge Processing of Acetone, Benzene and Ethylene
Authors: Hsiao M.C. , Penetrante B. M. , Merritt B. T. , Vogtlin G. E. , Wallman P.H.
Published: January 2017

Experiments on the plasma-assisted oxidation of dilute concentrations of acetone, benzene, and ethylene in atmospheric pressure gas streams by pulsed corona electrical discharge processing show that temperature influences the oxidation chemistry. In dry air mixtures, the main oxidation products are CO and CO
Decontamination of Soil Contaminated with Aroclor 1260 Using a Solvent Extraction Process and γ-Ray Radiolysis
Authors: Curry Randy D. , Clevenger Thomas , Stancu-Ciolac Oana , Farmer John , Mincher B. J. , Kapila Shubhender
Published: January 2017

Radiolytic dechlorination of halogenated organic compounds in soil has proved to require large γ-ray doses. In collaboration with INEEL, the University of Missouri investigated a new approach for the dechlorination of polychlorinated biphenyls in soil. The chemistry of an existing solvent extraction-floatation process was modified and then used to desorb Aroclor 1260 from a soil matrix. The chemistry of the floatation process was tailored to allow radiolytic dechlorination of the Aroclor 1260 once it was desorbed into the floatant. For the process, Soltrol 130 and an alcohol solution were used as the solvent-extractant. The efficiency of using gamma radiolysis to dechlorinate the Aroclor 1260-floatant solution was investigated using a Co-60 source located at the University's Research Reactor. When Aroclor 1260 was desorbed from the soil surface with the floatation process and irradiated, the dose constant (efficiency) was 40 times greater than when soil was irradiated alone.
Gamma-Ray Destruction of EDTA Catalyzed by Titania
Authors: Su Y. , Wang Y. , Daschbach J. L. , Fryberger Τ. B. , Henderson M. A. , Janata J. , Peden C. H. F.
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we describe a novel approach for destroying organic compounds in aqueous solution based on the principles of semiconductor photocatalysis and radiolysis. Specifically, this new method, radiocatalysis, has been used for the degradation of organic molecules such as ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA). Our experiments were performed by irradiating organic solutions containing catalytic colloidal TiQ with γ-rays from a
Field Evaluation of High Voltage Electron Beam Technology for Treating VOC-Contaminated Groundwater. Part II: Acute Toxicity Changes and By-Product Formation
Authors: Topudurti Kirankumar , Keefe Michael , Petropoulou Chriso , Schlichting Tim , Alvarez Franklin
Published: January 2017

As part of the Superfund Innovative Technology Evaluation program, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency evaluated the High Voltage jEnvironmental Applications, Inc. (HVEA), electron beam (E-beam) technology at the U.S. Department of Energy Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken, South Carolina. This technology irradiates water with a beam of high-energy electrons, causing the formation of three primary transient reactive species: aqueous electrons, hydroxyl radicals, and hydrogen radicals. Target organic compounds are either mineralized or broken down into low molecular weight organic compounds, primarily by these species. The E-beam system used for the evaluation is housed in an 8- by 48-foot trailer and is rated for a maximum flow rate of 50 gpm. During two different periods totaling 3 weeks in September and November 1994, about 70,000 gallons of SRS M-area groundwater contaminated with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was treated with the E-beam system. E-beam treatment increased groundwater acute toxicity for fathead minnows but not for water fleas. Although several VOCs were removed, lack of decrease in toxicity appears to be due to formation of toxic by-products, including haloacetic acids and aldehydes, during E-beam treatment of groundwater. An increase in inorganic carbon and chloride concentrations was observed, in the treated groundwater indicating that some VOCs were mineralized during E-beam treatment. Formation of CO
Solar Photochemical Detoxification and Disinfection for Water Treatment in Tropical Developing Countries
Authors: Cooper Adrienne T. , Goswami D. Yogi , Block Seymour
Published: January 2017

Clean and sterile water is scarce in developing tropical countries and the goal of universal access to water and sanitation has not yet been achieved. Standard water treatment techniques are often too expensive both in capital investment and operation and maintenance for use in developing countries. Since most technology, historically, has been developed in the temperate zone, it may not be the most appropriate for the tropical climate. The solar photochemical process has proven effective against organic chemical pollutants, including agricultural pesticides, which pose a growing threat to water sources in the tropics. Research conducted at the University of Florida has shown this technology to be effective for bacterial decontamination, which is often the primary concern in water supplies of developing countries. The use of solar energy as the primary driver serves to make this technology economically viable. Screening experiments were conducted to investigate the effect of pH and concentration on the simultaneous disinfection and detoxification of water using TiO
Figures-of-Merit for Advanced Oxidation Technologies: A Comparison of Homogeneous UV/H2O2, Heterogeneous UV/TiO2 and Electron Beam Processes
Authors: Bolton James R. , Valladares Julio E. , Zanin John P. , Cooper William J. , Nickelsen Michael G. , Kajdi David C. , Waite  , Kurucz Charles N.
Published: January 2017

Three Advanced Oxidation Technologies (UV/H
Gas-Phase Destruction of VOCs Using TiO2/UV and TiO2/O3/UV
Authors: Alberici Rosana M. , Jardim Wilson F.
Published: January 2017

Gas-phase photocatalytic oxidation of different classes of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including alkanes, ketones, alcohols, chlorinated compounds and aromatic compounds, was investigated using an annular thin film reactor. For all organic compounds tested, catalytic deactivation was not observed, except for toluene (506 ppmv). For this compound, maximum destruction (87%) was maintained during the first 60 min of irradiation, dropping steadily due to catalyst deactivation to 20% after 150 min. The use of ozone as auxiliary agent in the photocatalytic oxidation of toluene and pyridine was also tested. For toluene, when O
A Simple Kinetic Model for the Simultaneous Concentration and Intensity Dependencies of TCE Photocatalyzed Destruction
Authors: Upadhya Santosh , Ollis David F.
Published: January 2017

Trichloroethylene conversion in gas-solid photocatalysis ranks as one of the fastest reactions for air purification and treatment. The development of a complete kinetic model for this conversion is important in that it represents, under some conditions, a likely upper limit to conversion photoefficiency. Both reactant concentration and light intensity are known to influence reaction rate, but only two literature reports have explored a sufficiently wide range of concentrations to find that the intensity dependence is coupled to, and not independent of, the reactant concentration. We develop here a simple model which rationalizes this experimental behavior based upon the familiar competition between species for photo-produced holes (h
Effect of Fluorescent Illumination on Bacteria Supported on Glass Slides
Authors: Tompkins, Dean T. , Kurzynski Terry A. , Chappell Richard J. , Zeltner Walter A. , Anderson Marc A.
Published: January 2017

The photocidal effect of exposing S. aureus BC12041 to UVA-rich fluorescent light is demonstrated. In UVA-exposure studies with appropriate controls, CFUs of S. aureus BC 12041 are reduced by approximately two logarithms in a high humidity environment 85% RH) and by one logarithm in moderate humidity (~ 50% RH) over a 30-min treatment period. In similar studies at the high humidity, no differential effect was observed between test and control studies with B. subtilis ATCC 6633. Thus, it appears that UVA-rich fluorescent lighting may be a useful side effect obtained when employing an UVA-activated photocatalyst for the degradation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air.
TiO2 Photocatalytic Oxidation of Toluene and PCE Vapor in the Air
Authors: Li Kuyen , Liu Steven Y. C. , Khetarpal Sameer , Chen Daniel H.
Published: January 2017

A thin film of TiO
Analysis of Changes in Parathyroid Hormone and 25 (OH) Vitamin D Levels with Respect to Age, Gender and Season: A Data Mining Study
Authors: Serdar Muhittin A. , Can Başar Batu , Kilercik Meltem , Durer Zeynep A. , Aksungar Fehime Benli , Serteser Mustafa , Coskun Abdurrahman , Ozpinar Aysel , Unsal Ibrahim
Published: January 2017

Background:25 (OH) vitamin D3 (25(OH)D) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) are important regulators of calcium homeostasis. The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine the cut–off for sufficient 25(OH)D in a four-season region and the influence of age, seasons, and gender on serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels.

Methods:Laboratory results of 9890 female and 2723 male individuals aged 38.8±22.1 years who had simultaneous measurements of 25(OH)D and PTH were retrospectively analyzed by statistical softwares. Serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels were measured by a mass spectrometry method and by an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay, respectively.

Results:Mean serum 25(OH)D levels showed a sinusoidal fluctuation throughout the year and were significantly (p<0.01) higher in summer and autumn. On the other hand, PTH levels were significantly higher (p<0.01) in women and showed an opposite response to seasonal effects relative to 25(OH)D. Lowest levels of 25(OH)D were detected in people aged between 20 and 40 years whereas PTH hormone levels were gradually increasing in response to aging. The significant exponential inverse relationship that was found between PTH and 25(OH)D (PTH=exp(4.12–0.064*sqrt(25(OH)D)) (r=−0.325, R–squared=0.105, p<0.001)) suggested that the cut–off for sufficient 25(OH)D should be 75 nmol/L.

Conclusions:Our retrospective study based on large data set supports the suitability of the currently accepted clinical cut–off of 75 nmol/L for sufficient 25(OH)D. However, the issue of assessing Vitamin D deficiency remains difficult due to seasonal variations in serum 25(OH)D. Therefore, PTH measurements should complement 25(OH)D results for diagnosing Vitamin D deficiency. It is imperative that seasonally different criteria should be considered in future.
Centaurs, Pegasus, Sherlock Holmes: Against the Prejudice in Favour of the Real
Authors: Travanini Cristina
Published: January 2017

Meinong’s thought has been rediscovered in recent times by analytic philosophy: his object theory has significant consequences in formal ontology, and especially his account of impossible objects has proved itself to be decisive in a wide range of fields, from logic up to ontology of fiction. Rejecting the traditional ‘prejudice in favour of the real’, Meinong investigates what there is not: a peculiar non-existing object is precisely the fictional object, which exemplifies a number of properties (like Sherlock Holmes, who lives in Baker Street and is an outstanding detective) without existing in the same way as flesh-and-blood detectives do. Fictional objects are in some sense incomplete objects, whose core of constituent properties is not completely determined. Now, what does it imply to hold that a fictional object may also occur in true statements? We shall deal with the objections raised by Russell and Quine against Meinong’s view, pointing out limits and advantages of both perspectives.
Performance Evaluation of Photovoltaic Solar Air Conditioning
Authors: Snegirjovs A. , Shipkovs P. , Lebedeva K. , Kashkarova G. , Migla L. , Gantenbein P. , Omlin L.
Published: January 2017

Information on the electrical-driven solar air conditioning (SAC) is rather scanty. A considerable body of technical data mostly concerns large-scale photo-voltaic solar air conditioning (PV-SAC) systems. Reliable information about the energy output has arisen only in recent years; however, it is still not easily accessible, and sometimes its sources are closed. Despite these facts, solar energy researchers, observers and designers devote special attention to this type of SAC systems. In this study, performance evaluation is performed for the PV-SAC technology, in which low-power (up to 15 kWp of cooling power on average) systems are used. Such a system contains a PV electric-driven compression chiller with cold and heat sensible thermal storage capacities, and a rejected energy unit used for preheating domestic hot water (DHW). In a non-cooling season, it is possible to partly employ the system in the reverse mode for DHW production. In this mode, the ambient air serves as a heat source. Besides, free cooling is integrated in the PV-SAC concept.
Nest site selection of the Great Bustard (Otis t. tarda) in Körös-Maros National Park, Eastern Hungary
Authors: Janó Gizella , Végvári Zsolt
Published: January 2017

In the present study we aimed to identify factors influencing the spatial distribution of Great Bustard (Otis t. tarda) nests found between 1998 and 2015 in Dévaványa-Ecseg area in Körös-Maros National Park.

During the study period covering 17 years, we obtained information on 536 nests, which shows that Great Bustards used the following grassland crop types for breeding: wheat (43.07%), grassland (23.3%), fallow land (14.45%) and alfalfa (7.67%). These nests were found during the following activities: chemical weed control (33.63%), hay-cutting (25.37%), disking (8.55%) and harvesting (7.08%) and other 18 types of activities.

To identify the effects of disturbance and environmental factors on the spatial distribution of nests, such as distances to lek sites, roads, settlements and altitude, we formulated generalized linear models. As a result, we found that nest sites were significantly closer to lek sites and farther from human settlements than expected by random sampling.

Our results may contribute to the understanding of Great Bustard nest distributions, which can be helpful in nest detection prior to the initiation of disturbing agricultural activities, which is a key issue in the conservation of this bird. This study opens the way to analyse the effects of other environmental factors such as anthropogenic linear objects.
A high level of nest predation observed in a large Sand Martin (Riparia riparia) colony
Authors: Szép Tibor , Für Jenifer , Molnár Edit
Published: January 2017

During the 2016 field season, we investigated the influence of intense nest digging predation at a Sand Martin colony that is situated in natural habitat along the Tisza river. Over this season, foxes dug a large number of holes which either partly or fully destroyed 39% of burrows in a large colony, comprising over 1,500 pairs. This high level of predation caused death and/or injury to between 7% and 44% of breeding individuals and lowered the reproductive success of the colony as on average 20% (between 5% and 43%) less nestlings were fledged. The level of digging showed a negative exponential growth with burrow density. Our observations show that the burrows were most at threat between 0 m and 0.4 m from the top and between 0 m and 1.4 m from the bottom of the wall. These observations show that it is critically important to decrease the number of foxes and other potential nest predators, whose numbers have increased well above ‘natural’ levels over the last decade, in regions where Sand Martins are nesting as this species is in drastic decline.
New species in the Hungarian avifauna in 2015
Authors: Hadarics Tibor
Published: January 2017

This paper is a report on the appearance of the Naumann’s Thrush (Turdus naumanni) in 2015 which can be considered as a new species of the Hungarian avifauna.

The bird was seen and photographed in Népliget, Budapest on the 31st of December. With this observation, the number of bird species detected in Hungary has risen to 412.