bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of municipal-industrial full scale WWTP in an arid climate by application of ASM3
Authors: Elawwad Abdelsalam , Zaghloul Mohamed , Abdel-Halim Hisham
Published: March 2016

In developing countries, and due to the high cost of treatment of industrial wastewater, municipal wastewater treatment facilities usually receive a mixture of municipal wastewater and partially treated industrial wastewater. As a result, an increased potential for shock loads with high pollutant concentrations is expected. The use of mathematical modelling of wastewater treatment is highly efficient in such cases. A dynamic model based on activated sludge model no. 3 (ASM3) describing the performance of the activated sludge process at a full scale wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) receiving mixed domestic–industrial wastewater located in an arid area is presented. ASM3 was extended by adding the Arrhenius equation to respond to changes in temperature. BioWin software V.4 was used as the model platform. The model was calibrated under steady-state conditions, adjusting only three kinetic and stoichiometric parameters: maximum heterotrophic growth rate (μH = 8 d−1), heterotrophic aerobic decay rate (bH, O2 = 0.18 d−1), and aerobic heterotrophic yield (YH,O2 = 0.4 (gCOD/gCOD)). ASM3 was successful in predicting the WWTP performance, as the model was validated with 10 months of routine daily measurements. ASM3 extended with the Arrhenius equation could be helpful in the design and operation of WWTPs with mixed municipal–industrial influent in arid areas.
Assessment of the removal mechanism of hexavalent chromium from aqueous solutions by olive stone
Authors: Martín-Lara María Ángeles , Calero de Hoces Mónica , Ronda Gálvez Alicia , Pérez Muñoz Antonio , Trujillo Miranda Mª Carmen
Published: March 2016

The objectives of this study were to study the removal mechanism of Cr(VI) by natural olive stone (OS) and to present a sequential-batch process for the removal of total chromium (original Cr(VI) and Cr(III) derived from reduction of Cr(VI) during biosorption at acidic conditions). First, experiments were conducted varying pH from 1 to 4, and showed that a combined effect of biosorption and reduction is involved in the Cr(VI) removal. Then, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and desorption tests were employed to verify the oxidation state of the chromium bound to OS and to elucidate the removal mechanism of Cr(VI) by this material. The goal of these tests was to confirm that Cr(III) is the species mainly absorbed by OS. Finally, the possibility of total chromium removal by biosorption in a sequential-batch process was analyzed. In the first stage, 96.38% of Cr(VI) is removed by OS and reduced to Cr(III). In the second stage, approximately 31% of the total Cr concentration was removed. However, the Cr(III) released in the first stage is not completely removed, and it could suggest that the Cr(III) could be in a hydrated compound or a complex, which could be more difficult to remove under these conditions.
Comparison between Brazilian agro-wastes and activated carbon as adsorbents to remove Ni(II) from aqueous solutions
Authors: Dotto Guilherme Luiz , Meili Lucas , de Souza Abud Ana Karla , Tanabe Eduardo Hiromitsu , Bertuol Daniel Assumpção , Foletto Edson Luiz
Published: March 2016

This research was performed to find an alternative, low-cost, competitive, locally available and efficient adsorbent to treat nickel (Ni) containing effluents. For this purpose, several Brazilian agro-wastes like sugarcane bagasse (SCB), passion fruit wastes (PFW), orange peel (OP) and pineapple peel (PP) were compared with an activated carbon (AC). The adsorbents were characterized. Effects of fundamental factors affecting the adsorption were investigated using batch tests. Kinetic and equilibrium studies were performed using conventional models. It was verified that the adsorption was favored at pH of 6.0 for all agro-wastes, being dependent of the Ni speciation, point of zero charge and surface area of the adsorbents. The Ni removal percentage was in the following order: SCB > OP > AC > PFW > PP. From the kinetic viewpoint, the Elovich model was appropriate to fit the Ni adsorption onto SCB, while for the other adsorbents, the pseudo-first-order model was the most suitable. For all adsorbents, the Langmuir model was the more adequate to represent the equilibrium data, being the maximum adsorption capacities of 64.1 mg g−1, 60.7 mg g−1, 63.1 mg g−1, 48.1 mg g−1 and 64.3 mg g−1 for SCB, PFW, OP, PP and AC, respectively. These results indicated that mainly SCB and OP can be used as alternative adsorbents to treat Ni containing effluents.
Quality of Life in Carotid Atherosclerosis: The Role of Co-morbid Mood Disorders
Authors: Lecca Maria , Saba Luca , Sanfilippo Roberto , Pintus Elisa , Cadoni Michela , Sancassiani Federica , Francesca Moro Maria , Craboledda Davide , Lo Giudice Chiara , Montisci Roberto
Published: March 2016

Introduction/Objective:

To study in severe carotid
atherosclerosis (CA): the frequency of mood disorders (MD); the impairment of
quality of life (QoL); the role of co-morbid MD in such impairment.

Methods:

Case-control study. Cases: consecutive in-patients with
CA (stenosis ≥ 50%). Controls: subjects with no diagnosis of CA randomized from
a database of a community survey. Psychiatric diagnosis according to DSM-IV made
by clinicians and semi-structured interview, QoL measured by the Short Form
Health Survey (SF-12).

Results:

This is the first study on
comorbidity on CA disease and MD in which psychiatric diagnoses are conducted by
clinicians according to DSM-IV diagnostic criteria. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
(17.4% vs 2.72%, P <0.0001) but not Bipolar Disorders (BD) (4.3% vs
0.5%, P = 0.99) was higher in cases (N=46) than in controls (N= 184). SF-12
scores in cases were lower than in controls (30.56±8.12 vs 36.81±6:40; p
<0.001) with QoL comparable to serious chronic diseases of the central nervous
system. The burden of a concomitant MDD or BD amplifies QoL impairment.

Conclusion:

Comorbid MD aggravates the impairment of QoL in CA.
Unlike autoimmune diseases or degenerative diseases of the Central Nervous
System, CA shows a strong risk of MDD than BD.
Preparation of titanium carbide powder from ilmenite concentrate
Authors: Gou Hai-Peng , Zhang Guo-Hua , Kuo-Chih Chou
Published: March 2016

A new process of producing titanium carbide powder from ilmenite concentrate
was put forward. The ilmenite concentrate was reduced by graphite powder at
1500?C for 6 hours, with the reduction products of TiC, Fe and MgO. The porous
reduction products were agitation leached in ferric chloride solution at
25?C for 60 minutes. After the filtration, TiC powder accompanied by little
MgAl2O4 and Mg2SiO4 were obtained. Finally, the element Fe was recycled from
the filtrate in the form of ?-FeOOH after blowing air for 3 hours at 80?C. The
size of rod-like ?-FeOOH particle was less than 1?m.
VAMP7 Regulates Autophagy to Maintain Mitochondrial Homeostasis and to Control Insulin Secretion in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Aoyagi Kyota , Ohara-Imaizumi Mica , Itakura Makoto , Torii Seiji , Akimoto Yoshihiro , Nishiwaki Chiyono , Nakamichi Yoko , Kishimoto Takuma , Kawakami Hayato , Harada Akihiro , Takahashi Masami , Nagamatsu Shinya
Published: March 2016

VAMP7 is a SNARE protein that mediates specific membrane fusions in intracellular trafficking and was recently reported to regulate autophagosome formation. However, its function in pancreatic β-cells is largely unknown. To elucidate the physiological role of VAMP7 in β-cells, we generated pancreatic β-cell–specific VAMP7 knockout (Vamp7flox/Y;Cre) mice. VAMP7 deletion impaired glucose-stimulated ATP production and insulin secretion, though VAMP7 was not localized to insulin granules. VAMP7-deficient β-cells showed defective autophagosome formation and reduced mitochondrial function. p62/SQSTM1, a marker protein for defective autophagy, was selectively accumulated on mitochondria in VAMP7-deficient β-cells. These findings suggest that accumulation of dysfunctional mitochondria that are degraded by autophagy caused impairment of glucose-stimulated ATP production and insulin secretion in Vamp7flox/Y;Cre β-cells. Feeding a high-fat diet to Vamp7flox/Y;Cre mice exacerbated mitochondrial dysfunction, further decreased ATP production and insulin secretion, and consequently induced glucose intolerance. Moreover, we found upregulated VAMP7 expression in wild-type mice fed a high-fat diet and in db/db mice, a model for diabetes. Thus our data indicate that VAMP7 regulates autophagy to maintain mitochondrial quality and insulin secretion in response to pathological stress in β-cells.
Diabetes and Risk of Arterial Stiffness: A Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Xu Min , Huang Ya , Xie Lan , Peng Kui , Ding Lin , Lin Lin , Wang Po , Hao Mingli , Chen Yuhong , Sun Yimin , Qi Lu , Wang Weiqing , Ning Guang , Bi Yufang
Published: March 2016

We aimed to explore the causal association between type 2 diabetes (T2D) and increased arterial stiffness. We performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in 11,385 participants from a well-defined community study in Shanghai during 2011–2013. We genotyped 34 T2D-associated common variants identified in East Asians and created a genetic risk score (GRS). We assessed arterial stiffness noninvasively with the measurement of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). We used the instrumental variable (IV) estimator to qualify the causal relationship between T2D and increased arterial stiffness. We found each 1-SD increase in T2D_GRS was associated with 6% higher risk in increased arterial stiffness (95% CI 1.01, 1.12), after adjustment of other metabolic confounders. Using T2D_GRS as the IV, we demonstrated a causal relationship between T2D and arterial stiffening (odds ratio 1.24, 95% CI 1.06, 1.47; P = 0.008). When categorizing the genetic loci according to their effect on insulin secretion or resistance, we found genetically determined decrease in insulin secretion was associated with increase in baPWV (βIV = 122.3 cm/s, 95% CI 41.9, 204.6; P = 0.0005). In conclusion, our results provide evidence supporting a causal association between T2D and increased arterial stiffness in a Chinese population.
Use of veterinary services by Latino dog and cat owners with various degrees of English-language proficiency
Authors: Landau Ruth E. , Beck Alan , Glickman Larry T. , Litster Annette , Widmar Nicole J. Olynk , Moore George E.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

To characterize patterns of dog and cat ownership and veterinary service use among Latino dog and cat owners with various degrees of English-language proficiency.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional telephone survey.

SAMPLE

Data from 393 Latino pet owners.

PROCEDURES

Telephone surveys were conducted with Latino dog and cat owners from a random sample of US households to determine the number of dogs and cats owned, factors associated with veterinary service use, and satisfaction with veterinary care.

RESULTS

393 of 1,026 (38.3%) respondents were pet owners. Two hundred fifty-nine of 330 (78.5%) dog owners and 70 of 115 (60.9%) cat owners reported taking their pet to the veterinarian in the past 12 months, most commonly for vaccination or examination or because of illness. Respondents were most satisfied with veterinary care provided, least satisfied with cost, and moderately satisfied with quality of communication. English-language proficiency was not significantly associated with whether owners sought veterinary care. A large proportion of respondents who wanted to receive pet health information in Spanish described themselves as speaking English well or very well.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Although having limited proficiency in English was not associated with Latino pet owners seeking veterinary care, opportunities exist for veterinary personnel to improve communications with these clients. Personnel can assess their clients' language needs by asking each about the language in which they would prefer to receive their pet's health information.
Effects of hormonal changes in temporal perception, speech perception in noise and auditory working memory in females
Authors: Sao Tulsi , Jain Chandni
Published: March 2016

Background

The menstrual cycle is a cyclic fluctuation of ovarian hormonal level in every female. Previous electrophysiological, psychoacoustic, neurobiological and cognitive neuroscience studies have focused on the fluctuating level of gonadal steroids (oestradiol and progesterone) affecting peripheral auditory system and cognitive function. These changes can alter central auditory processing abilities and auditory working memory capacity during the menstrual cycle. In the present study the effect of hormonal changes in temporal processing, speech perception in noise and working memory is assessed in females.

Study design

A time-series design was used. A total of 10 female participants in the age range of 18–25 years, with an average 28 days regular menstrual cycle, were included in this study. Auditory temporal processing abilities were assessed using gap detection, modulation detection and a duration discrimination test; speech perception in noise was assessed through the Quick-SIN test in Kannada and auditory working memory was assessed using a forward and backward digit span test. All participants were tested twice during a single menstrual cycle, i.e. menstrual phase, and ovulation. A paired sample t-test was used to estimate the significance of differences.

Results

The results showed significant differences for all the tests across the two phases of the menstrual cycle; the ovulation phase had better thresholds compared to that of the menstrual phase for all tests.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that higher oestrogen level fine tunes central auditory processing and improves psychoacoustic capabilities to resolve temporal waveform, which is important for speech perception.
An analysis of socio-demographic and behavioural factors among immigrant MSM in Montreal from an HIV-testing site sample
Authors: Lessard David , Lebouché Bertrand , Engler Kim , Thomas Réjean
Published: March 2016

Little Canadian research exists on immigrant men who have sex with men (MSM), who are internationally reported to use rapid HIV-testing sites. Our objective was to describe immigrant MSM in a sample of clients at an HIV testing site. From July 2012 to November 2013, clients at Actuel sur Rue (AsR), a Montreal-based HIV rapid-testing site, provided data for a staff- and a self-administered questionnaire. We compared immigrant and non-immigrant MSM's socio-demographics and risk practices. Among immigrants, we analyzed these variables by country of origin. We conducted regression analyses examining how immigrant status and socio-demographics were associated with risk practices. During the study, 1353 MSM visited AsR and 407 (30%) were immigrants, mostly from Europe, Latin America/Caribbean, and Africa/Middle-East. The same proportion (2%) of immigrant and non-immigrant MSM received a positive rapid HIV test result. Relative to non-immigrant MSM, significantly more immigrant MSM reported a post-secondary degree, a lower income, and being unemployed. Fewer reported receiving an HIV-positive/unknown-status partner's sperm/blood in their mouth, ever having unprotected sex with an HIV-positive partner, and ever selling sex. In comparisons between MSM immigrants by origin, fewer Asian and African/Middle-Eastern MSM reported ever testing for HIV. In the regression analyses, immigrant status was not independently associated with sexual risk. MSM who earned less, were unemployed, or had a high school degree or less were more likely to have sold sex. Socio-demographics like employment, education and income were associated with reported sexual risk in MSM clients, but not immigrant status alone.
Characterization of International Origin–Destination Truck Movements Across Two Major U.S.–Canadian Border Crossings
Authors: Gingerich Kevin , Maoh Hanna , Anderson William
Published: March 2016

In 2013, 3.9 million trucks crossed between the United States and Canada at the Ambassador Bridge or the Blue Water Bridge. These trucks accounted for 43.1%, by value, of all truck trade between the two countries. GPS pings that tracked the movement of Canadian-owned trucks over a span of 1 year were used to characterize freight activities at the two Canada–United States border crossings. (A “ping” is a GPS data record that identifies the location of a subject at a given point in time. The term is commonly used in the information technology and communications industries.) A total of 172,000 and 82,000 crossing events were identified and analyzed at the Ambassador Bridge and the Blue Water Bridge, respectively. This paper describes the development of origin–destination data pertaining to truck trips that utilize the two border locations. The paper also includes an estimation of the industries involved in individual trips, on the basis of those trips’ start and end locations. The combination of origin, destination, crossing time and location, and industry provides an immense amount of information on the nature of international truck movements at the Canada–United States border. The resulting spatial patterns provide evidence that the two border crossings are used for both short- and long-range trips that include locations on the West Coast and the southern U.S. border. Although crossing times did not vary considerably by industry, they were influenced by the distance of the trip: short-distance journeys had shorter crossing durations, on average.
Investigation of Commercial Vehicle Parking Permits in Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Rosenfield Adam , Lamers James , Nourinejad Mehdi , Roorda Matthew J.
Published: March 2016

As the City of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, implements stricter parking enforcement in the city’s downtown core, commercial vehicles (CVs) have become targets of increased ticketing and towing, often without alternate legal means of parking and loading. This paper investigates the feasibility of a CV parking permit to provide lawful and affordable parking options yet maintain a source of revenue for the municipality. Parking permits around the world are reviewed on the basis of their cost and scope. An analysis of historical parking citations in Toronto indicates clear patterns of parking behavior for which a permit would be beneficial. A nested choice model is developed to reflect the decision process of drivers searching for parking and calculate the revenue impacts of permit pricing schemes. This decision structure reflects a trade-off between permit pricing, legal parking costs (such as the value of walking time from distant loading zones), and the expected value of citations for illegal parking. The trade-off between permit revenue and parking ticket revenue shows that optimal permit pricing, in the order of Can$300 annually, can provide an improvement in municipal revenue and achieve widespread adoption (Can$1 = US$0.799 in March 2015). An improvement in social welfare is also achieved with permit adoption through the reduction of the cost of congestion, as permit holders are encouraged to park in legal zones away from congested arterials. The feasibility of a permit is contingent on the calibration of the price and rule structure in the fair appraisal of the value of parking in the downtown core and the needs of CV operators.
Effects of Safety Chains on Dynamics of Truck and Full Trailer Combinations in Event of Coupling Failure
Authors: Ritzinger Adam , Di Cristoforo Rob , Nolan Daniel , Baker Wayne , Heinze Kieran
Published: March 2016

This paper describes an investigation of the effects of safety chains on the dynamics of truck and full trailer combinations in the event of a catastrophic failure of the primary pin coupling. Safety chains on drawbar couplings are not mandatory in Australia for truck and full trailer combinations but are recognized as having the potential to reduce the crash risk and the severity of crash outcomes. Some industry stakeholders, predominantly drivers, have expressed safety-related concerns about the potential unintended effects of the chains on the dynamics of the hauling unit in the event of a coupling failure. The on-road dynamics of truck and full trailer combinations connected only by safety chains was assessed in various scenarios through field tests of several driving maneuvers, in which dynamic performance data were recorded by a data-logging system. Through the analysis of the recorded data and observations made by the driver of the vehicle and other observers, it was found that neither the truck nor the trailer demonstrated unsafe behavior in any of the tested maneuvers. It was determined that a truck–trailer combination could be brought safely to a stop in the event of a primary connection failure, up to the highest tested speed of 80 km/h (50 mph). These findings strongly indicate that there is little potential for safety concerns to arise as a result of fitting safety chains to the drawbar couplings of these truck configurations.
Motor cortex tDCS does not modulate perceived exertion within multiple-sets of resistance exercises
Authors: Montenegro Rafael A. , Farinatti Paulo T.V. , de Lima Paulo F.M. , Okano Alexandre H. , Menêses Annelise L. , de Oliveira-Neto Leônidas , Cavalcante Bruno R. , de A. Correia Marilia , Fontes Eduardo B. , Ritti-Dias Raphael M.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

Recent evidences have shown that the motor cortex (MC) may influence the rating of perceived exertion (RPE). Given the potential role of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in modulate cortical areas related to exercise performance, it is possible that tDCS applied on motor cortex (MC) could also influence the RPE during resistance exercises.

OBJECTIVE:

This study analyzed the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on the rating of perceived exertion during multiple sets of resistance exercises.

METHODS:

Thirteen strength-trained men performed a resistance exercise session after either anodal tDCS or sham stimulation applied over the primary motor cortex. Resistance exercise sessions included 3 sets of 10 repetitions of 6 exercises performed with load of at 85% of 8-12 RM. The RPE was obtained using OMNI-Resistance exercise scale.

RESULTS:

The RPE assessed at the end of the sessions was similar in tDCS vs. sham condition (6.78 ± 1.48 vs. 6.87 ± 1.49, respectively; p = 0.56). The RPE for each exercise was similar across conditions, except for the second set of bench press (p = 0.04) and first set of seated-row (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, the RPE during multiple sets of submaximal exercises was not modulated by tDCS applied upon MC.
An Update on Genetic Resistance of Chickpea to Ascochyta Blight
Authors: Sharma Mamta , Ghosh Raju
Published: March 2016

Ascochyta blight (AB) caused by Ascochyta rabiei (Pass.) Labr. is an important and widespread disease of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) worldwide. The disease is particularly severe under cool and humid weather conditions. Breeding for host resistance is an efficient means to combat this disease. In this paper, attempts have been made to summarize the progress made in identifying resistance sources, genetics and breeding for resistance, and genetic variation among the pathogen population. The search for resistance to AB in chickpea germplasm, breeding lines and land races using various screening methods has been updated. Importance of the genotype × environment (GE) interaction in elucidating the aggressiveness among isolates from different locations and the identification of pathotypes and stable sources of resistance have also been discussed. Current and modern breeding programs for AB resistance based on crossing resistant/multiple resistant and high-yielding cultivars, stability of the breeding lines through multi-location testing and molecular marker-assisted selection method have been discussed. Gene pyramiding and the use of resistant genes present in wild relatives can be useful methods in the future. Identification of additional sources of resistance genes, good characterization of the host–pathogen system, and identification of molecular markers linked to resistance genes are suggested as the key areas for future study.
Bayesian Nonparametric Measurement of Factor Betas and Clustering with Application to Hedge Fund Returns
Authors: Garay Urbi , Ter Horst Enrique , Molina German , Rodriguez Abel
Published: March 2016

We define a dynamic and self-adjusting mixture of Gaussian Graphical Models to cluster financial returns, and provide a new method for extraction of nonparametric estimates of dynamic alphas (excess return) and betas (to a choice set of explanatory factors) in a multivariate setting. This approach, as well as the outputs, has a dynamic, nonstationary and nonparametric form, which circumvents the problem of model risk and parametric assumptions that the Kalman filter and other widely used approaches rely on. The by-product of clusters, used for shrinkage and information borrowing, can be of use to determine relationships around specific events. This approach exhibits a smaller Root Mean Squared Error than traditionally used benchmarks in financial settings, which we illustrate through simulation. As an illustration, we use hedge fund index data, and find that our estimated alphas are, on average, 0.13% per month higher (1.6% per year) than alphas estimated through Ordinary Least Squares. The approach exhibits fast adaptation to abrupt changes in the parameters, as seen in our estimated alphas and betas, which exhibit high volatility, especially in periods which can be identified as times of stressful market events, a reflection of the dynamic positioning of hedge fund portfolio managers.
Application of the Extension Taguchi Method to Optimal Capability Planning of a Stand-alone Power System
Authors: Wang Meng-Hui , Huang Mei-Ling , Zhan Zi-Yi , Huang Chong-Jie
Published: March 2016

An Extension Taguchi Method (ETM) is proposed on the optimized allocation of equipment capacity for solar cell power generation, wind power generation, full cells, electrolyzer and hydrogen tanks. The ETM is based on the domain knowledge containing the product specifications and allocation levels provided by suppliers and design factors since most of the renewable energy equipment available in the market comes with a specific capacity. A proper orthogonal array is used to collect 18 sets of simulation responses. The extension theory is introduced to determine the correlation function, and factor effects are used to identify the optimized capacity allocation. The hours of power shortage are simulated using Matlab for all capacity allocations at the lowest establishment cost and the optimized capacity allocation of loss of load probability (LOLP). Finally, the extension theory, extension AHP theory, ETM and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) are used to determine the optimized capacity allocation of the system. Results are compared for the above four optimization simulation methods and verify that the proposed ETM surpasses the others on achieving the optimized capacity allocation.
A Volume Averaging Theory for Convective Flow in a Nanofluid Saturated Metal Foam
Authors: Zhang Wenhao , Li Wenhao , Yang Chen , Nakayama Akira
Published: March 2016

A rigorous derivation of the macroscopic governing equations for convective flow in a nanofluid saturated metal foam has been conducted using the volume averaging theory originally developed for analyzing heat and fluid flow in porous media. The nanoparticle conservation equation at a pore scale based on the Buongiorno model has been integrated over a local control volume together with the equations of continuity, Navier–Stokes and energy conservation. The unknown terms resulting from the volume averaging procedure were modeled mathematically to obtain a closed set of volume averaged versions of the governing equations. This set of the volume averaged governing equations was analytically solved to find the velocity, temperature and nanoparticle distributions and heat transfer characteristics resulting from both thermal and nanoparticle mechanical dispersions in a nanofluid saturated metal foam. Eventually, the analysis revealed that an unconventionally high level of the heat transfer rate (about 80 times as high as the case of base fluid convection without a metal foam) can be attained by combination of metal foam and nanofluid.
Pathological Internet Use and Risk-Behaviors among European Adolescents
Authors: Durkee Tony , Carli Vladimir , Floderus Birgitta , Wasserman Camilla , Sarchiapone Marco , Apter Alan , Balazs Judit , Bobes Julio , Brunner Romuald , Corcoran Paul , Cosman Doina , Haring Christian , Hoven Christina , Kaess Michael , Kahn Jean-Pierre , Nemes Bogdan , Postuvan Vita , Saiz Pilar , Värnik Peeter , Wasserman Danuta
Published: March 2016

Risk-behaviors are a major contributor to the leading causes of morbidity among adolescents and young people; however, their association with pathological Internet use (PIU) is relatively unexplored, particularly within the European context. The main objective of this study is to investigate the association between risk-behaviors and PIU in European adolescents. This cross-sectional study was conducted within the framework of the FP7 European Union project: Saving and Empowering Young Lives in Europe (SEYLE). Data on adolescents were collected from randomized schools within study sites across eleven European countries. PIU was measured using Young’s Diagnostic Questionnaire (YDQ). Risk-behaviors were assessed using questions procured from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS). A total of 11,931 adolescents were included in the analyses: 43.4% male and 56.6% female (M/F: 5179/6752), with a mean age of 14.89 ± 0.87 years. Adolescents reporting poor sleeping habits and risk-taking actions showed the strongest associations with PIU, followed by tobacco use, poor nutrition and physical inactivity. Among adolescents in the PIU group, 89.9% were characterized as having multiple risk-behaviors. The significant association observed between PIU and risk-behaviors, combined with a high rate of co-occurrence, underlines the importance of considering PIU when screening, treating or preventing high-risk behaviors among adolescents.
Effects of Exposure of Pink Shrimp, Farfantepenaeus duorarum, Larvae to Macondo Canyon 252 Crude Oil and the Corexit Dispersant
Authors: Laramore Susan , Krebs William , Garr Amber
Published: March 2016

The release of oil into the Gulf of Mexico (GOM) during the Deepwater Horizon event coincided with the white and pink shrimp spawning season. To determine the potential impact on shrimp larvae a series of static acute (24–96 h) toxicity studies with water accommodated fractions (WAFs) of Macondo Canyon (MC) 252 crude oil, the Corexit 9500A dispersant, and chemically enhanced WAFS (CEWAFs) were conducted with nauplii, zoea, mysid, and postlarval Farfantepenaeus duorarum. Median lethal concentrations (LC50) were calculated and behavior responses (swimming, molting, light sensitivity) evaluated. Impacts were life stage dependent with zoea being the most sensitive. Behavioral responses for all stages, except postlarvae, occurred at below LC50 values. Dispersants had the greatest negative impact while WAFs had the least. No short-term effects (survival, growth) were noted for nauplii exposed to sub-lethal CEWAFs 39 days post-exposure. This study points to the importance of evaluating multiple life stages to assess population effects following contaminant exposure and further, that the use of dispersants as a method of oil removal increases oil toxicity.
Preparation and Evaluation of Dexamethasone-Loaded Electrospun Nanofiber Sheets as a Sustained Drug Delivery System
Authors: Lee Jin , Lee Hye , Park Seung , Park Ji , Kim Jae , Min Byoung , Kim Moon
Published: March 2016

Recently, electrospinning technology has been widely used as a processing method to make nanofiber sheets (NS) for biomedical applications because of its unique features, such as ease of fabrication and high surface area. To develop a sustained dexamethasone (Dex) delivery system, in this work, poly(ε-caprolactone-co-l-lactide) (PCLA) copolymer with controllable biodegradability was synthesized and further utilized to prepare electrospun Dex-loaded NS using water-insoluble Dex (Dex(b)) or water-soluble Dex (Dex(s)). The Dex-NS obtained by electrospinning exhibited randomly oriented and interconnected fibrillar structures. The in vitro and in vivo degradation of Dex-NS was confirmed over a period of a few weeks by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The evaluation of in vitro and in vivo Dex(b) and Dex(s) release from Dex-NS showed an initial burst of Dex(b) at day 1 and, thereafter, almost the same amount of release as Dex(b) for up to 28 days. In contrast, Dex(s)-NS exhibited a small initial burst of Dex(s) and a first-order releasing profile from Dex-NS. In conclusion, Dex-NS exhibited sustained in vitro and in vivo Dex(s) release for a prolonged period, as well as controlled biodegradation of the NS over a defined treatment period.
Image Charge Effects in the Wetting Behavior of Alkanes on Water with Accounting for Water Solubility
Authors: Emelyanenko Kirill , Emelyanenko Alexandre , Boinovich Ludmila
Published: March 2016

Different types of surface forces, acting in the films of pentane, hexane, and heptane on water are discussed. It is shown that an important contribution to the surface forces originates from the solubility of water in alkanes. The equations for the distribution of electric potential inside the film are derived within the Debye-Hückel approximation, taking into account the polarization of the film boundaries by discrete charges at water-alkane interface and by the dipoles of water molecules dissolved in the film. On the basis of above equations we estimate the image charge contribution to the surface forces, excess free energy, isotherms of water adsorption in alkane film, and the total isotherms of disjoining pressure in alkane film. The results indicate the essential influence of water/alkane interface charging on the disjoining pressure in alkane films, and the wettability of water surface by different alkanes is discussed.
Effects of Ca Content on Formation and Photoluminescence Properties of CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ Phosphor by Combustion Synthesis
Authors: Chung Shyan-Lung , Huang Shu-Chi
Published: March 2016

Effects of Ca content (in the reactant mixture) on the formation and the photoluminescence properties of CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ phosphor (CASIN) were investigated by a combustion synthesis method. Ca, Al, Si, Eu2O3, NaN3, NH4Cl and Si3N4 powders were used as the starting materials and they were mixed and pressed into a compact which was then wrapped up with an igniting agent (i.e., Mg + Fe3O4). The compact was ignited by electrical heating under a N2 pressure of ≤1.0 MPa. By keeping the molar ratios of Al and Si (including the Si powder and the Si in Si3N4 powder) both at 1.00 and that of Eu2O3 at 0.02, XRD (X-ray diffraction) coupled with TEM-EDS (transmission electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscope) and SAED (selected area electron diffraction) measurements show that AlN:Eu2+ and Ca-α-SiAlON:Eu2+ are formed as the major phosphor products when the Ca molar ratio (denoted by Y) is equal to 0.25 and AlN:Eu2+ and Ca-α-SiAlON:Eu2+ could not be detected at Y ≥ 0.75 and ≥1.00, respectively. CASIN (i.e., CaAlSiN3:Eu2+) becomes the only phosphor product as Y is increased to 1.00 and higher. The extent of formation of CASIN increases with increasing Y up to 1.50 and begins to decrease as Y is further increased to 1.68. While the excitation wavelength regions are similar at various Y, the emission wavelength regions vary significantly as Y is increased from 0.25 to 1.00 due to different combinations of phosphor phases formed at different Y. The emission intensity of CASIN was found to vary with Y in a similar trend to its extent of formation. The Ca and Eu contents (expressed as molar ratios) in the synthesized products were found to increase roughly with increasing Y but were both lower than the respective Ca and Eu contents in the reactant mixtures.
Conformal Maps, Biharmonic Maps, and the Warped Product
Authors: Ouakkas Seddik , Djebbouri Djelloul
Published: March 2016

In this paper we study some properties of conformal maps between equidimensional manifolds, we construct new example of non-harmonic biharmonic maps and we characterize the biharmonicity of some maps on the warped product manifolds.
Acute and Sub-Acute Toxicity Evaluation of the Methanolic Extract of Alstonia scholaris Stem Bark
Authors: Bello Idris , Bakkouri Abdulmenem , Tabana Yasser , Al-Hindi Bassel , Al-Mansoub Majed , Mahmud Roziahanim , Asmawi Mohd.
Published: March 2016

Alstonia scholaris has been used by traditional medicine practitioners since the medieval ages for the treatment of diseases. The aim of this research was to evaluate the acute and sub-acute oral toxicity of its methanolic extract. The acute toxicity test was conducted using Sprague Dawley (SD) rats. The methanolic extract of Alstonia scholaris stem bark (ASME) was administrated in a single dose of 2000 mg/kg via oral gavage; and the animals were observed for any behavioral changes or mortality. In the sub-acute toxicity study, SD rats received three doses of ASME (250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg) for 28 days via oral gavage. During these 28 days of treatment, the rats were observed weekly for toxicity symptoms. Following the 28-day treatment, the rats were sacrificed for hematological, biochemical and histopathology studies. In the acute toxicity study, Alstonia scholaris was found to be non-toxic at a dose of 2000 mg/kg b.w. In the sub-acute toxicity study, significant variations in body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters were observed in the experimental groups at the dose of 500 and 1000 mg/kg with the death of two female rats being recorded at the highest dose (1000 mg/kg b.w.). Histopathological studies revealed slight degeneration (lesion) and centrilobular necrosis in the liver, which was most expressed in the highest-dose group. These results demonstrate that, while a single dose and short term oral intake of Alstonia scholaris bark extract caused no toxicity up to a dose of 2000 mg/kg b.w., toxic effects manifested in the long term treatment at the highest dose (500 and 1000 mg/kg). The long-term toxic effect was found to be associated with alterations in hematological compositions and end-organ damage to the liver. Thus, prolonged use of high doses of ASME orally should be discouraged and lower doses encouraged.
Clinical Significance of IgG Avidity Testing and Other Considerations in the Diagnosis of Congenital Cytomegalovirus Infection: A Review Update
Authors: Abdullahi Nasir Idris , Babayo Adamu , Shehu Muhammad
Published: March 2016

Prompt and accurate laboratory testing of women before or during antenatal days is necessary for detecting humoral immunological responses against cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and assessing risk of congenital transmission. CMV is the most common viral etiology with the greatest propensity to induce neonatal pathologies. Most healthcare facilities in developing countries rely solely on anti-CMV IgM and IgG assays in diagnosing CMV infections. However, these parameters have some worrisome limitations. This study reviewed the significance of IgG avidity testing as a highly sensitive and specific tool that improves decisions regarding diagnosis of maternal and congenital CMV infections. We conducted this review from relevant published articles using an extensive literature search made through PubMed, Scopus and Google scholar on the concepts of congenital CMV (CCMV) transmission and clinical significance of IgG avidity testing in diagnosis of CCMV infections. Findings from our review revealed that IgG avidity testing in some developed societies was frequently utilized to resolve dilemmas associated with serodiagnosis of CMV infections, however, there is paucity of information in regards to its use in developing countries. The non-inclusion of IgG avidity testing during serological investigations of CMV could be a reason why congenital CMV infections and associated pathologies often go underdiagnosed in developing countries.
Targeting in Cancer Therapies
Authors: Mangues Ramon , Vázquez Esther , Villaverde Antonio
Published: March 2016

Drug developers recruit and combine principles, procedures and strategies from chemistry, pharmacology, nanotechnology and biotechnology, focusing on the generation of functional vehicles as nano-carriers of drugs for improved stability and enhanced intracellular delivery.[...]
Extensive Intestinal Resection Triggers Behavioral Adaptation, Intestinal Remodeling and Microbiota Transition in Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Mayeur Camille , Gillard Laura , Le Beyec Johanne , Bado André , Joly Francisca , Thomas Muriel
Published: March 2016

Extensive resection of small bowel often leads to short bowel syndrome (SBS). SBS patients develop clinical mal-absorption and dehydration relative to the reduction of absorptive area, acceleration of gastrointestinal transit time and modifications of the gastrointestinal intra-luminal environment. As a consequence of severe mal-absorption, patients require parenteral nutrition (PN). In adults, the overall adaptation following intestinal resection includes spontaneous and complex compensatory processes such as hyperphagia, mucosal remodeling of the remaining part of the intestine and major modifications of the microbiota. SBS patients, with colon in continuity, harbor a specific fecal microbiota that we called “lactobiota” because it is enriched in the Lactobacillus/Leuconostoc group and depleted in anaerobic micro-organisms (especially Clostridium and Bacteroides). In some patients, the lactobiota-driven fermentative activities lead to an accumulation of fecal d/l-lactates and an increased risk of d-encephalopathy. Better knowledge of clinical parameters and lactobiota characteristics has made it possible to stratify patients and define group at risk for d-encephalopathy crises.
Rhubarb Anthraquinones Protect Rats against Mercuric Chloride (HgCl2)-Induced Acute Renal Failure
Authors: Gao Dan , Zeng Ling-Na , Zhang Pin , Ma Zhi-Jie , Li Rui-Sheng , Zhao Yan-Ling , Zhang Ya-Ming , Guo Yu-Min , Niu Ming , Bai Zhao-Fang , Xiao Xiao-He , Gao Wei-Wei , Wang Jia-Bo
Published: March 2016

Mercury (Hg) causes severe nephrotoxicity in subjects with excess exposure. This work attempted to identify whether a natural medicine—rhubarb—has protective effects against mercuric chloride (HgCl2)-induced acute renal failure (ARF), and which of its components contributed most to the treatment. Total rhubarb extract (TR) were separated to the total anthraquinones (TA), the total tannins (TT) and remaining component extract (RC). Each extract was orally pre-administered to rats for five successive days followed by HgCl2 injection to induce kidney injury. Subsequently, renal histopathology and biochemical examinations were performed in vitro to evaluate the protective effects. Pharmacological studies showed that TR and TA, but not TT or RC manifested significant protection activity against HgCl2-induced ARF. There were also significant declines of serum creatine, urea nitrogen values and increases of total protein albumin levels in TR and TA treated groups compared to HgCl2 alone (p < 0.05). At last, the major components in TA extract were further identified as anthraquinones by liquid chromatography coupled mass spectroscopy. This study thus provides observational evidences that rhubarb could ameliorate HgCl2-induced ARF and its anthraquinones in particular are the effective components responsible for this activity in rhubarb extract.
Porphyrins as Catalysts in Scalable Organic Reactions
Authors: Barona-Castaño Juan , Carmona-Vargas Christian , Brocksom Timothy , De Oliveira Kleber
Published: March 2016

Catalysis is a topic of continuous interest since it was discovered in chemistry centuries ago. Aiming at the advance of reactions for efficient processes, a number of approaches have been developed over the last 180 years, and more recently, porphyrins occupy an important role in this field. Porphyrins and metalloporphyrins are fascinating compounds which are involved in a number of synthetic transformations of great interest for industry and academy. The aim of this review is to cover the most recent progress in reactions catalysed by porphyrins in scalable procedures, thus presenting the state of the art in reactions of epoxidation, sulfoxidation, oxidation of alcohols to carbonyl compounds and C–H functionalization. In addition, the use of porphyrins as photocatalysts in continuous flow processes is covered.
Pharmacokinetic and Metabolic Characteristics of Herb-Derived Khellactone Derivatives, A Class of Anti-HIV and Anti-Hypertensive: A Review
Authors: Jing Wanghui , Liu Ruilin , Du Wei , Luo Zhimin , Guo Pengqi , Zhang Ting , Zeng Aiguo , Chang Chun , Fu Qiang
Published: March 2016

A vast number of structural modifications have been performed for khellactone derivatives (KDs) that have been widely concerned owing to their diverse biological properties, including anti-hypertension, anti-HIV, reversing P-glycoprotein (P-gp) mediated multidrug resistance, and anti-inflammation effects, to find the most active entity. However, extensive metabolism of KDs results in poor oral bioavailability, thus hindering the clinical trial performance of those components. The primary metabolic pathways have been revealed as hydrolysis, oxidation, acyl migration, and glucuronidation, while carboxylesterases and cytochrome P450 3A (CPY3A), as well as UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) primarily mediate these metabolic pathways. Attention was mainly paid to the pharmacological features, therapeutic mechanisms and structure-activity relationships of KDs in previous reviews, whereas their pharmacokinetic and metabolic characteristics have seldom been discussed. In the present review, KDs’ metabolism and their pharmacokinetic properties are summarized. In addition, the structure-metabolism relationships of KDs and the potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) induced by KDs were also extensively discussed. The polarity, the acyl groups substituted at C-3′ and C-4′ positions, the configuration of C-3′ and C-4′, and the moieties substituted at C-3 and C-4 positions play the determinant roles for the metabolic profiles of KDs. Contributions from CYP3A4, UGT1A1, P-gp, and multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 have been disclosed to be primary for the potential DDIs. The review is expected to provide meaningful information and helpful guidelines for the further development of KDs.
Lithographically Fabricated Magnifying Maxwell Fisheye Lenses
Authors: Smolyaninova Vera , Jensen Christopher , Zimmerman William , Johnson Anthony , Schaefer David , Smolyaninov Igor
Published: March 2016

Recently suggested magnifying Maxwell fisheye lenses, which are made of two half-lenses of different radii, have been fabricated and characterized. The lens action is based on control of polarization-dependent effective refractive index in a lithographically formed tapered waveguide. We have studied wavelength and polarization dependent performance of the lenses, and their potential applications in waveguide mode sorting.