bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant Cation-Chloride Cotransporters (CCC): Evolutionary Origins and Functional Insights
Authors: Henderson Sam , Wege Stefanie , Gilliham Matthew
Published: February 2018

Genomes of unicellular and multicellular green algae, mosses, grasses and dicots harbor genes encoding cation-chloride cotransporters (CCC). CCC proteins from the plant kingdom have been comparatively less well investigated than their animal counterparts, but proteins from both plants and animals have been shown to mediate ion fluxes, and are involved in regulation of osmotic processes. In this review, we show that CCC proteins from plants form two distinct phylogenetic clades (CCC1 and CCC2). Some lycophytes and bryophytes possess members from each clade, most land plants only have members of the CCC1 clade, and green algae possess only the CCC2 clade. It is currently unknown whether CCC1 and CCC2 proteins have similar or distinct functions, however they are both more closely related to animal KCC proteins compared to NKCCs. Existing heterologous expression systems that have been used to functionally characterize plant CCC proteins, namely yeast and Xenopus laevis oocytes, have limitations that are discussed. Studies from plants exposed to chemical inhibitors of animal CCC protein function are reviewed for their potential to discern CCC function in planta. Thus far, mutations in plant CCC genes have been evaluated only in two species of angiosperms, and such mutations cause a diverse array of phenotypes—seemingly more than could simply be explained by localized disruption of ion transport alone. We evaluate the putative roles of plant CCC proteins and suggest areas for future investigation.
Innovative Method for Automatic Shape Generation and 3D Printing of Reduced-Scale Models of Ultra-Thin Concrete Shells
Authors: Tomé Ana , Vizotto Isaías , Valença Jónatas , Júlio Eduardo
Published: February 2018

A research and development project has been conducted aiming to design and produce ultra-thin concrete shells. In this paper, the first part of the project is described, consisting of an innovative method for shape generation and the consequent production of reduced-scale models of the selected geometries. First, the shape generation is explained, consisting of a geometrically nonlinear analysis based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) to define the antifunicular of the shell’s deadweight. Next, the scale model production is described, consisting of 3D printing, specifically developed to evaluate the aesthetics and visual impact, as well as to study the aerodynamic behaviour of the concrete shells in a wind tunnel. The goals and constraints of the method are identified and a step-by-step guidelines presented, aiming to be used as a reference in future studies. The printed geometry is validated by high-resolution assessment achieved by photogrammetry. The results are compared with the geometry computed through geometric nonlinear finite-element-based analysis, and no significant differences are recorded. The method is revealed to be an important tool for automatic shape generation and building scale models of shells. The latter enables the performing of wind tunnel tests to obtain pressure coefficients, essential for structural analysis of this type of structures.
Polyacetylene: Myth and Reality
Authors: Hudson Bruce
Published: February 2018

Polyacetylene, the simplest and oldest of potentially conducting polymers, has never been made in a form that permits rigorous determination of its structure. Trans polyacetylene in its fully extended form will have a potential energy surface with two equivalent minima. It has been assumed that this results in bond length alternation. It is, rather, very likely that the zero-point energy is above the Peierls barrier. The experimental studies that purport to show bond alternation are reviewed and shown to be compromised by serious experimental inconsistencies or by the presence, for which there is considerable evidence, of finite chain polyenes. In this view, addition of dopants results in conductivity by facilitation of charge transport between finite polyenes. The double minimum potential that necessarily occurs for polyacetylene, if viewed as the result of elongation of finite chains, originates from admixture of the 11Ag ground electronic state with the 21Ag excited electronic singlet state. This excitation is diradical (two electron) in character. The polyacetylene limit is an equal admixture of these two 1Ag states making theory intractable for long chains. A method is outlined for preparation of high molecular weight polyacetylene with fully extended chains that are prevented from reacting with neighboring chains.
Modulation of Magnetic Properties at the Nanometer Scale in Continuously Graded Ferromagnets
Authors: Fallarino Lorenzo , Riego Patricia , Kirby Brian J. , Miller Casey W. , Berger Andreas
Published: February 2018

Ferromagnetic alloy materials with designed composition depth profiles provide an efficient route for the control of magnetism at the nanometer length scale. In this regard, cobalt-chromium and cobalt-ruthenium alloys constitute powerful model systems. They exhibit easy-to-tune magnetic properties such as saturation magnetization MS and Curie temperature TC while preserving their crystalline structure over a wide composition range. In order to demonstrate this materials design potential, we have grown a series of graded Co1−xCrx and Co1−wRuw (10

1
¯

0) epitaxial thin films, with x and w following predefined concentration profiles. Structural analysis measurements verify the epitaxial nature and crystallographic quality of our entire sample sets, which were designed to exhibit in-plane c-axis orientation and thus a magnetic in-plane easy axis to achieve suppression of magnetostatic domain generation. Temperature and field-dependent magnetic depth profiles have been measured by means of polarized neutron reflectometry. In both investigated structures, TC and MS are found to vary as a function of depth in accordance with the predefined compositional depth profiles. Our Co1−wRuw sample structures, which exhibit very steep material gradients, allow us to determine the localization limit for compositionally graded materials, which we find to be of the order of 1 nm. The Co1−xCrx systems show the expected U-shaped TC and MS depth profiles, for which these specific samples were designed. The corresponding temperature dependent magnetization profile is then utilized to control the coupling along the film depth, which even allows for a sharp onset of decoupling of top and bottom sample parts at elevated temperatures.
Reversed Microstructures and Tensile Properties after Various Cold Rolling Reductions in AISI 301LN Steel
Authors: Järvenpää Antti , Jaskari Matias , Karjalainen Leo
Published: February 2018

Heavy cold rolling is generally required for efficient grain size refinement in the martensitic reversion process, which is, however, not desirable in practical processing. In the present work, the influence of cold rolling reductions of 32%, 45% and 63% on the microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of a metastable austenitic AISI 301LN type steel were investigated in detail adopting scanning electron microscopy with the electron backscatter diffraction method and mechanical testing. A completely austenitic microstructure and a partially reversed counterpart were created. It was found that the fraction of grains with a size of 3 µm or larger, called medium-sized grains, increased with decreasing the prior cold rolling reduction. These grains are formed mainly from the shear-reversed austenite, transformed from slightly-deformed martensite, by gradual evolution of subgrains to grains. However, in spite of significant amounts of medium-sized grains, the tensile properties after the 32% or 45% cold rolling reductions were practically equal to those after the 63% reduction. The austenite stability against the formation of deformation-induced martensite in subsequent straining was reduced by lowering the cold rolling reduction, due to the larger grain size of medium-sized grains and the shift of their orientation towards {211} .
Characterization of Porous Phosphate Coatings Enriched with Magnesium or Zinc on CP Titanium Grade 2 under DC Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation
Authors: Rokosz Krzysztof , Hryniewicz Tadeusz , Gaiaschi Sofia , Chapon Patrick , Raaen Steinar , Pietrzak Kornel , Malorny Winfried , Salvador Fernandes João
Published: February 2018

The aim of the paper is to study and determine the effect of voltage increasing from 500 up to 650 VDC on chemical and electrochemical properties of the obtained porous coatings with plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) processes, known also as micro arc oxidation (MAO). In the present paper, the chemical and electrochemical characterization of porous phosphate coatings enriched with magnesium or zinc on commercially pure (CP) Titanium Grade 2 under DC-PEO obtained in electrolytes based on concentrated 85% analytically pure H3PO4 (98 g/mole) acid with additions of 500 g·L−1 of zinc nitrate Zn(NO3)2∙6H2O or magnesium nitrate Mg(NO3)2∙6H2O, are described. These materials were characterized using scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy (GDOES). It was found that the voltage of PEO process has influence on the chemical composition and thickness of the obtained porous coatings as well as on their electrochemical behavior. The higher the potential of PEO treatment, the higher the amount of zinc-to-phosphorus ratio for zinc enriched coatings was obtained, whereas in magnesium enriched coatings, the average amount of magnesium detected in PEO coating is approximately independent of the PEO voltages. Based on XPS studies, it was found out that most likely the top 10 nm of porous coatings is constructed of titanium (Ti4+), magnesium (Mg2+), zinc (Zn2+), and phosphates PO43− and/or HPO42− and/or H2PO4− and/or P2O74−. On the basis of GDOES studies, a four-sub-layer model of PEO coatings is proposed. Analysis of the potentiodynamic corrosion curves allowed to conclude that the best electrochemical repeatability was noted for magnesium and zinc enriched coatings obtained at 575 VDC.
Styles of Alteration of Ti Oxides of the Kimberlite Groundmass: Implications on the Petrogenesis and Classification of Kimberlites and Similar Rocks
Authors: Xu Jingyao , Melgarejo Joan , Castillo-Oliver Montgarri
Published: February 2018

The sequence of replacement in groundmass perovskite and spinel from SK-1 and SK-2 kimberlites (Eastern Dharwar craton, India) has been established. Two types of perovskite occur in the studied Indian kimberlites. Type 1 perovskite is found in the groundmass, crystallized directly from the kimberlite magma, it is light rare-earth elements (LREE)-rich and Fe-poor and its ΔNNO calculated value is from −3.82 to −0.73. The second generation of perovskite (type 2 perovskite) is found replacing groundmass atoll spinel, it was formed from hydrothermal fluids, it is LREE-free and Fe-rich and has very high ΔNNO value (from 1.03 to 10.52). Type 1 groundmass perovskite may be either replaced by anatase or kassite along with aeschynite-(Ce). These differences in the alteration are related to different f(CO2) and f(H2O) conditions. Furthermore, primary perovskite may be strongly altered to secondary minerals, resulting in redistribution of rare-earth elements (REE) and, potentially, U, Pb and Th. Therefore, accurate petrographic and chemical analyses are necessary in order to demonstrate that perovskite is magmatic before proceeding to sort geochronological data by using perovskite. Ti-rich hydrogarnets (12.9 wt %–26.3 wt % TiO2) were produced during spinel replacement by late hydrothermal processes. Therefore, attention must be paid to the position of Ca-Ti-garnets in the mineral sequence and their water content before using them to classify the rock based on their occurrence.
A Highly Sensitive Immunochromatographic Strip Test for Rapid and Quantitative Detection of Saikosaponin d
Authors: Zhang Yue , Xiao Wei , Kong Hui , Cheng Jinjun , Yan Xin , Zhang Meiling , Wang Qingguo , Qu Huihua , Zhao Yan
Published: February 2018

A quantitative lateral-flow immunoassay using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) conjugated with a monoclonal antibody (MAb) against saikosaponin d (SSd) was developed for the analysis of SSd. The AuNPs were prepared in our laboratory. The AuNPs were polyhedral, with an average diameter of approximately 18 nm. We used the conjugation between AuNPs and MAbs against SSd to prepare immunochromatographic strips (ICSs). For the quantitative experiment, the strips with the test results were scanned using a membrane strip reader, and a detection curve (regression equation, y = −0.113ln(x) + 1.5451, R2 = 0.983), representing the averages of the scanned data, was obtained. This curve was linear from 96 ng/mL to 150 μg/mL, and the IC50 value was 10.39 μg/mL. In this study, we bring the concept of POCT (point-of-care testing) to the measurement of TCM compounds, and this is the first report of quantitative detection of SSd by an ICS.
Preparation and Properties of High Solid Content and Low Viscosity Waterborne Polyurethane—Acrylate Emulsion with a Reactive Emulsifier
Authors: Zhu Zhewen , Li Ruiqi , Zhang Chaoying , Gong Shuling
Published: February 2018

High solid content waterborne polyurethane-acrylate (WPUA) emulsions have been successfully synthesized in two steps. Firstly, we prepared a waterborne polyurethane emulsion, then reacted it with acrylate monomer by emulsion polymerization using the semi-continuous seeded method. The effects of the type and amount of emulsifier, the amount of dimethylolpropionic acid (DMPA), the choice of capping group, the ratio of PU/PA, and the method of adding a water-soluble monomer to the properties of the composite emulsion were investigated. The reactive emulsifier replaced the traditional emulsifier and there were no metal ions introduced to the reaction, whether by the emulsifier or the initiator. Through a variety of tests, we proved that the prepared emulsion has the advantages of small particle size, narrow distribution, good stability, good performance of the film, and solid content of 46%.
Catechol End-Functionalized Polylactide by Organocatalyzed Ring-Opening Polymerization
Authors: Sadaba Naroa , Salsamendi Maitane , Casado Nerea , Zuza Ester , Muñoz Jone , Sarasua Jose-Ramon , Mecerreyes David , Mantione Daniele , Detrembleur Christophe , Sardon Haritz
Published: February 2018

There is a great interest in incorporating catechol moieties into polymers in a controlled manner due to their interesting properties, such as the promotion of adhesion, redox activity or bioactivity. One possibility is to incorporate the catechol as end-group in a polymer chain using a functional initiator by means of controlled polymerization strategies. Nevertheless, the instability of catechol moieties under oxygen and basic pH requires tedious protection and deprotection steps to perform the polymerization in a controlled fashion. In the present work, we explore the organocatalyzed synthesis of catechol end-functional, semi-telechelic polylactide (PLLA) using non-protected dopamine, catechol molecule containing a primary amine, as initiator. NMR and SEC-IR results showed that in the presence of a weak organic base such as triethylamine, the ring-opening polymerization (ROP) of lactide takes place in a controlled manner without need of protecting the cathechol units. To further confirm the end-group fidelity the catechol containing PLLA was characterized by Cyclic Voltammetry and MALDI-TOF confirming the absence of side reaction during the polymerization. In order to exploit the potential of catechol moieties, catechol end-group of PLLA was oxidized to quinone and further reacted with aliphatic amines. In addition, we also confirmed the ability of catechol functionalized PLLA to reduce metal ions to metal nanoparticles to obtain well distributed silver nanoparticles. It is expected that this new route of preparing catechol-PLLA polymers without protection will increase the accessibility of catechol containing biodegradable polymers by ROP.
Fabrication and Optimization of Bilayered Nanoporous Anodic Alumina Structures as Multi-Point Interferometric Sensing Platform
Authors: Nemati Mahdieh , Santos Abel , Losic Dusan
Published: February 2018

Herein, we present an innovative strategy for optimizing hierarchical structures of nanoporous anodic alumina (NAA) to advance their optical sensing performance toward multi-analyte biosensing. This approach is based on the fabrication of multilayered NAA and the formation of differential effective medium of their structure by controlling three fabrication parameters (i.e., anodization steps, anodization time, and pore widening time). The rationale of the proposed concept is that interferometric bilayered NAA (BL-NAA), which features two layers of different pore diameters, can provide distinct reflectometric interference spectroscopy (RIfS) signatures for each layer within the NAA structure and can therefore potentially be used for multi-point biosensing. This paper presents the structural fabrication of layered NAA structures, and the optimization and evaluation of their RIfS optical sensing performance through changes in the effective optical thickness (EOT) using quercetin as a model molecule. The bilayered or funnel-like NAA structures were designed with the aim of characterizing the sensitivity of both layers of quercetin molecules using RIfS and exploring the potential of these photonic structures, featuring different pore diameters, for simultaneous size-exclusion and multi-analyte optical biosensing. The sensing performance of the prepared NAA platforms was examined by real-time screening of binding reactions between human serum albumin (HSA)-modified NAA (i.e., sensing element) and quercetin (i.e., analyte). BL-NAAs display a complex optical interference spectrum, which can be resolved by fast Fourier transform (FFT) to monitor the EOT changes, where three distinctive peaks were revealed corresponding to the top, bottom, and total layer within the BL-NAA structures. The spectral shifts of these three characteristic peaks were used as sensing signals to monitor the binding events in each NAA pore in real-time upon exposure to different concentrations of quercetin. The multi-point sensing performance of BL-NAAs was determined for each pore layer, with an average sensitivity and low limit of detection of 600 nm (mg mL−1)−1 and 0.14 mg mL−1, respectively. BL-NAAs photonic structures have the capability to be used as platforms for multi-point RIfS sensing of biomolecules that can be further extended for simultaneous size-exclusion separation and multi-analyte sensing using these bilayered nanostructures.
In Vitro Study of the Cytotoxic, Cytostatic, and Antigenotoxic Profile of Hemidesmus indicus (L.) R.Br. (Apocynaceae) Crude Drug Extract on T Lymphoblastic Cells
Authors: Turrini Eleonora , Calcabrini Cinzia , Tacchini Massimo , Efferth Thomas , Sacchetti Gianni , Guerrini Alessandra , Paganetto Guglielmo , Catanzaro Elena , Greco Giulia , Fimognari Carmela
Published: February 2018

In traditional Indian medicine, the crude drug Hemidesmus indicus root—commonly known as Indian sarsaparilla—is used alone or in poly-herbal preparations for the treatment of a wide range of diseases. The present study focuses on the cancer chemopreventive and therapeutic potential of H. indicus extracts on an acute lymphoblastic leukemia cell line (CCRF-CEM). With this aim in mind, we subjected H. indicus roots to two subsequent extractions (hydro-alcoholic extraction and soxhlet extraction). As DNA damage is an important prerequisite for the induction of mutations/cancer by genotoxic carcinogens, cancer chemoprevention may be achieved by preventing genotoxicity. Through an integrated experimental approach, we explored the genoprotective potential of the soxhlet H. indicus extract against different mutagenic compounds and its cytotoxic, proapoptotic, and cytostatic properties. In our experimental conditions, H. indicus induced a cytotoxic effect involving the activation of both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways and blocked the cell cycle in the S phase. Moreover, the antigenotoxicity results showed that the extract was able to mitigate DNA damage, an essential mechanism for its applicability as a chemopreventive agent, via either the modulation of extracellular and intracellular events involved in DNA damage. These data add to the growing body of evidence that H. indicus can represent a noteworthy strategy to target early and late stages of cancer.
The Magistral Phage
Authors: Pirnay Jean-Paul , Verbeken Gilbert , Ceyssens Pieter-Jan , Huys Isabelle , De Vos Daniel , Ameloot Charlotte , Fauconnier Alan
Published: February 2018

Since time immemorial, phages—the viral parasites of bacteria—have been protecting Earth’s biosphere against bacterial overgrowth. Today, phages could help address the antibiotic resistance crisis that affects all of society. The greatest hurdle to the introduction of phage therapy in Western medicine is the lack of an appropriate legal and regulatory framework. Belgium is now implementing a pragmatic phage therapy framework that centers on the magistral preparation (compounding pharmacy in the US) of tailor-made phage medicines.
Qualitative Evaluation of the Five-Year ‘Red Collar’ Campaign to End Inhumane Culling of Dogs as a Method of Rabies Control
Authors: Hiby Elly , Tasker Lou
Published: February 2018

Dog-mediated human rabies can be eliminated through mass dog vaccination. Despite leading authorities in human and animal health uniting to advance effective and humane rabies control, some governments resort to lethal methods, which are unethical, often inhumane and ineffective. To end the inhumane culling of dogs in response to rabies, World Animal Protection launched ‘Red Collar’; a five-year campaign (2011–2016) that worked with governments to promote the implementation of mass dog vaccination for rabies control. We present the findings from a qualitative evaluation of ‘Red Collar’, conducted both regionally and with national focus on Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, the Philippines and Zanzibar, Tanzania. Through semi-structured interviews and written contributions from stakeholders (n = 54), we compared perceptions of changes with stated campaign goals to capture recommendations for future work. The campaign successfully generated momentum for implementation of mass dog vaccination by targeted governments. Lessons learned were established: Value of a consistent animal welfare ‘voice’; the need to explore the motivations behind culling; the need to capacity build; time required for the ‘ripple effect’ to inspire humane control in other countries; importance of monitoring and evaluation of indicators; time and effort required for exit strategies and prior preparation for a robust response to culling.
The Effects of Antibiotics on Microbial Community Composition in an Estuary Reservoir during Spring and Summer Seasons
Authors: Xu Zheng , Jiang Yue , Te Shu , He Yiliang , Gin Karina
Published: February 2018

The increased antibiotic pollutants in aquatic environments pose severe threats on microbial ecology due to their extensive distribution and antibacterial properties. A total of 16 antibiotics including fluoroquinolones (FQs) (ofloxacin (OFX), ciprofloxacin (CFX), norfloxacin (NFX)), Sulfonamides (SAs) (sulfamonomethoxine (SMM), sulfadiazine (SDZ), sulfaquinoxaline (SQX)), Tetracyclines (TCs) (tetracycline (TC), doxycycline (DC)), β-lactams (penicillin G (PEN G), penicillin V (PEN V), cefalexin (LEX)), Macrolides (MLs) (erythromycin-H2O (ETM), tylosin (TYL)) and other antibiotics (Polymix-B (POL), Vancomycin (VAN), Lincomycin (LIN)) were detected in the surface water of the Qingcaosha Reservoir. Multivariate statistical analysis indicated that both water quality and physicochemical indexes have less contributions on variations of these antibiotics, suggesting the concentrations of antibiotics inside the reservoir are mainly affected by upstream runoff and anthropic activity along the river. Antibiotics including TYL, PEN G and ETM showed significant correlations with variations of bacterial community composition, and closely connected with various gram-negative bacteria in co-occurrence/exclusion patterns of the network, suggesting these bacterial taxa play important roles in the course of migration and transformation of related antibiotics. In conclusion, further research is required to evaluate the potential risk of genetic transfer of resistance to related bacteria induced by long-term exposure to low levels of antibiotics in the environment.
Treatment of Dairy Wastewater by Oxygen Injection: Occurrence and Removal Efficiency of a Benzotriazole Based Anticorrosive
Authors: Martín-Rilo Santiago , Coimbra Ricardo , Escapa Carla , Otero Marta
Published: February 2018

Benzotriazole is used as corrosion inhibitor in many industrial sectors, such as the dairy industry. Due to its widespread use in various applications and everyday consumer products, this chemical easily reaches the aquatic environment, where it may have deleterious effects. In fact, benzotriazole has been included among the so-called emerging contaminants. In this work, the occurrence and fate of a benzotriazole based anticorrosive (BTA-A) during wastewater treatment in a dairy industry has been assessed. At this dairy, a new system for wastewater treatment based on the injection of pure oxygen was recently started. This system has been proved to be efficient, economic and able to stably operate under a wide range of chemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids inputs. Then, after detecting the presence of BTA-A in the effluent of the wastewater treatment plant, it was aimed to optimize oxygen injection for the removal of this anticorrosive together with the regulated parameters. The performance of the system was evaluated at a real scale during a month period, during which the mean removal performance of the oxygen injection based treatment was 91%, 90% and 99% for chemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids and BTA-A, respectively.
Against All Odds: Embedding New Knowledge for Event Continuity and Community Well-Being
Authors: Azara Iride , Wiltshier Peter , Greatorex Jamie
Published: February 2018

Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football (ARSF) is a sporting event that occurs yearly on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday in the market town of Ashbourne, in Derbyshire. Sometimes referred to as "mob football," Shrovetide can arguably be perceived as the quintessential sensorial and fully
immersive event, being played out across town and involving the entire community. The event is also a unique tourism spectacle and a tool for tourism destination positioning. This article presents some of the results of a larger study that looks at challenges in the matter of events safety
and the impacts that this has on event survival and the sustainable development of local communities. Findings highlight the need to support communities to learn from events in order to preserve them as they are essential for the maintenance of a unique and inimitable community identity.
Influence of the preparation method on the photocatalytic activity of Nd-modified TiO2
Authors: Parnicka Patrycja , Mazierski Paweł , Grzyb Tomasz , Lisowski Wojciech , Kowalska Ewa , Ohtani Bunsho , Zaleska-Medynska Adriana , Nadolna Joanna
Published: February 2018

Nd-modified TiO2 photocatalysts have been obtained via hydrothermal (HT) and sol–hydrothermal (SHT) methods. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), BET surface area measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), luminescence spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The photocatalytic activity of the synthesized samples was evaluated by the degradation of phenol in aqueous solution under irradiation with UV–vis (λ > 350 nm) and vis (λ > 420 nm) light, as well as by the degradation of gaseous toluene under irradiation with vis (λmax = 415 nm) light. It was found that Nd-modified TiO2 is an efficient photocatalyst for the degradation of phenol and toluene under visible light. XPS analysis revealed that the photocatalyst prepared via HT method contains a three-times higher amount of hydroxy groups at the surface layer and a two-times higher amount of surface defects than that obtained by the SHT method. The photocatalytic efficiency of phenol and toluene degradation under vis irradiation in the presence of 0.25% Nd-TiO2(HT) reached 0.62 and 3.36 μmol·dm−1·min−1, respectively. Photocatalytic activity tests in the presence of Nd-TiO2 and scavenger confirm that superoxide radicals were responsible for the visible light-induced degradation of the model pollutant in aqueous solution.
The Magellan Evolution of Galaxies Spectroscopic and Ultraviolet Reference Atlas (MegaSaura). I. The Sample and the Spectra
Authors: Rigby J. R. , Bayliss M. B. , Sharon K. , Gladders M. D. , Chisholm J. , Dahle H. , Johnson T. , Paterno-Mahler R. , Wuyts E. , Kelson D. D.
Published: February 2018

We introduce Project MegaSaura: the Magellan Evolution of Galaxies Spectroscopic and Ultraviolet Reference Atlas. MegaSaura comprises medium-resolution, rest-frame ultraviolet spectroscopy of N = 15 bright gravitationally lensed galaxies at redshifts of 1.68 < z < 3.6, obtained with the MagE spectrograph on the Magellan telescopes. The spectra cover the observed-frame wavelength range 3200 < λ

o
 < 8280 Å; the average spectral resolving power is R = 3300. The median spectrum has a signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) = 21 per resolution element at 5000 Å. As such, the MegaSaura spectra have superior S/N and wavelength coverage compared to what COS/HST provides for starburst galaxies in the local universe. This paper describes the sample, the observations, and the data reduction. We compare the measured redshifts for the stars, the ionized gas as traced by nebular lines, and the neutral gas as traced by absorption lines; we find the expected bulk outflow of the neutral gas, and no systemic offset between the redshifts measured from nebular lines and the redshifts measured from the stellar continuum. We provide the MegaSaura spectra to the astronomical community through a data release.
SMBH Seeds: Model Discrimination with High-energy Emission Based on Scaling Relation Evolution
Authors: Ben-Ami Sagi , Vikhlinin Alexey , Loeb Abraham
Published: February 2018

We explore the expected X-ray (0.5–2 keV) signatures from supermassive black holes (SMBHs) at high redshifts (

) assuming various models for their seeding mechanism and evolution. Seeding models are approximated through deviations from the

relation observed in the local universe, while N-body simulations of the large-scale structure are used to estimate the density of observable SMBHs. We focus on two seeding model families: (i) light seed BHs from remnants of Pop-III stars and (ii) heavy seeds from the direct collapse of gas clouds. We investigate several models for the accretion history, such as sub-Eddington accretion, slim disk models, and torque-limited growth models. We consider observations with two instruments: (i) the Chandra X-ray Observatory and (ii) the proposed Lynx. We find that all of the simulated models are in agreement with the current results from the Chandra Deep Field South, i.e., consistent with zero SMBHs in the field of view. In deep Lynx exposures, the number of observed objects is expected to become statistically significant. We demonstrate the capability to limit the phase space of plausible scenarios of the birth and evolution of SMBHs by performing deep observations at a flux limit of

. Finally, we show that our models are in agreement with current limits on the cosmic X-ray background (CXRB) and the expected contribution from unresolved quasars. We find that an analysis of CXRB contributions down to the Lynx confusion limit yields valuable information that can help identify the correct scenario for the birth and evolution of SMBHs.
Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics (
): Convective Boundaries, Element Diffusion, and Massive Star Explosions
Authors: Paxton Bill , Schwab Josiah , Bauer Evan B. , Bildsten Lars , Blinnikov Sergei , Duffell Paul , Farmer R. , Goldberg Jared A. , Marchant Pablo , Sorokina Elena , Thoul Anne , Townsend Richard H. D. , Timmes F. X.
Published: February 2018

We update the capabilities of the software instrument Modules for Experiments in Stellar Astrophysics (MESA) and enhance its ease of use and availability. Our new approach to locating convective boundaries is consistent with the physics of convection, and yields reliable values of the convective-core mass during both hydrogen- and helium-burning phases. Stars with

become white dwarfs and cool to the point where the electrons are degenerate and the ions are strongly coupled, a realm now available to study with MESA due to improved treatments of element diffusion, latent heat release, and blending of equations of state. Studies of the final fates of massive stars are extended in MESA by our addition of an approximate Riemann solver that captures shocks and conserves energy to high accuracy during dynamic epochs. We also introduce a 1D capability for modeling the effects of Rayleigh–Taylor instabilities that, in combination with the coupling to a public version of the

radiation transfer instrument, creates new avenues for exploring Type II supernova properties. These capabilities are exhibited with exploratory models of pair-instability supernovae, pulsational pair-instability supernovae, and the formation of stellar-mass black holes. The applicability of MESA is now widened by the capability to import multidimensional hydrodynamic models into MESA. We close by introducing software modules for handling floating point exceptions and stellar model optimization, as well as four new software tools—

,

-Docker,

, and mesastar.org—to enhance MESA’s education and research impact.
First molecular characterisation and PCR ribotyping of Clostridium difficile strains isolated in two Algerian Hospitals
Authors: Djebbar Abla , Sebaihia Mohammed , Kuijper Ed , Harmanus Celine , Sanders Ingrid , Benbraham Nadia , Hacène Hocine
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Clostridium difficile is the major etiological agent of nosocomial antibiotics associated diarrhoea. C. difficile infection is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients worldwide. Despite its known importance, there is no study on this important pathogen in Algeria.

Methodology: In this prospective study, undertaken between 2013 and 2015, faecal specimens were collected from 159 hospitalized patients with antibiotic-associated diarrhoea in two tertiary health care hospitals in Chlef, Algeria. Faecal samples were cultured on CLO plates Agar with cefoxitin, cycloserine antibiotics and sodium taurocholate. C. difficile suspected colonies were analysed by multiplex PCR for the detection of the toxin genes. C. difficile isolates were analysed by PCR ribotyping and multi-locus tandem repeat analysis. Antimicrobial susceptibility was determined by the E-test method, according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute protocol.

Results: C. difficile was cultured from 11 of 159 stool specimen (6.9%). Seven strains were toxigenic, mainly represented by the 020 and 014 PCR ribotypes and four non toxigenic belong to PCR ribotype 084. All 11 isolates were susceptible to both vancomycin and metronidazole and resistant to ciprofloxacin.

Conclusions: This study, which reported for the first time C. difficile ribotypes circulating in Algerian health care facilities, could paves the way for further more comprehensive studies on this important pathogen, and could be useful to the local health authorities to implement a surveillance program of C. difficile in Algeria.
Barriers to ISO 9001 implementation in Moroccan organizations: Empirical study
Authors: Bounabri Noussaiba , El oumri Ahmed Amine , Saad Elmadani , Zerrouk Latifa , Ibnlfassi Amina
Published: February 2018

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to explore obstacles to ISO 9001 quality management system implementation in Moroccan firms.Design/methodology/approach: A questionnaire survey has been conducted among a heterogeneous sample of 115 organizations, operating in different sectors in Morocco. The authors have studied barriers to quality initiatives in general and obstacles to QMS implementation in particular through an extensive literature review. Questions related to profiles of respondents, reasons of seeking certification, external consultancy and barriers to ISO 9001 implementation experienced by surveyed organizations. For the purpose of this study, authors considered three categories of quality inhibiting factors: organizational, technical and costs related barriers.Findings: Results indicate that surveyed companies sought ISO 9001 certification mainly for marketing reasons and experienced many difficulties during the implementation process. Barriers reported by respondents were mostly organizational. Resistance to change headed the list according to participants’ opinion. Also, findings highlighted the prominence of bureaucracy and poor interdependence between departments in organizations. Lack of communication, poor top management commitment and insufficient trainings were also ascertained to be obstacles to QMS implementation in Morocco.Originality/value: Earlier studies were led by different researchers in different countries about barriers to quality initiatives in general and to ISO 9001 implementation in particular. Few of those studies were conducted in Arab speaking countries but no research has been carried in Morocco. This study on obstacles to QMS implementation in Morocco will help in completing the jigsaw of difficulties faced by organizations worldwide when preparing to ISO 9001 certification.
Assessing the Print Communication and Technology Attributes of an Academic Medical Center
Authors: Leonard Kelsey , Oelschlegel Sandy , Tester Emily , Russomanno Jennifer , Heidel Robert Eric
Published: February 2018

Background:

Historically, health literacy has been viewed as the patient's problem; however, it is now accepted that the responsibility for improving health literacy lies with the health care professionals and systems. An Institute of Medicine report outlines the health literacy attributes, such as printed patient education and technology, which both play a role in patient decision-making and engaging them in their health care. Research suggests that patients who are engaged in their health care have improved health outcomes. For health care organizations to accommodate the needs of all patients, it is imperative that they determine the current organizational state and discover opportunities for improvement.

Methods:

The Health Literacy Environment of Hospitals and Health Centers (HLEHHC) Print Communication Rating and Technology Rating Tool were used to measure the internal aspects of organizational health literacy at The University of Tennessee Medical Center (UTMC). Included in the print assessment were the 150 most distributed patient education handouts. Researchers also used the Simple Measure of Gobbledygook and Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool to assess print material. Technology was assessed using UTMC's website as the authoritative source.

Key Results:

The HLEHHC was useful for assessing print material and technology. Reviewing and reporting the data question-by-question revealed more granular, actionable information on where there are opportunities to improve the health care environment for all patients. This analysis resulted in proposing actions based on best practices that UTMC could implement in the coming year. The process is replicable in other settings.

Implications:

Responsibility for improving informed medical decision-making lies with health care organizations. Low health literacy influences the effectiveness of print patient education and technology in informing patients about their health. Assessing these aspects of the health care organization as part of quality improvement provides necessary data for improvements. The Health Literacy Environment of Hospital and Health Centers was a useful tool to measure characteristics of print and technology.

[
HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2018;2(1):e26–e34.]

Plain Language Summary:

A task force at an academic medical center assessed the health literacy attributes of their organization. Researchers assessed print patient education and patient-related technology. The researchers found areas for improvements to make health information easier to understand.
Sustainable Utilization of Sewage Sludge: Review of Technologies
Authors: Stunda-Zujeva Agnese , Kreicbergs Imants , Medne Olita
Published: February 2018

Biological treatment of municipal and industrial wastewater becomes more common in EU countries. As a result, the amount of wastewater sludge increases. The political and economic situation in world is requiring new methods for recovery of non-renewable mineral resources. Sludge is great secondary source of many elements. The aim of this research is to summarize available techniques for sustainable utilization of industrial sludge and recovery of critical raw minerals (CRMs). The most common sustainable method is using treated sludge as fertilizer in agriculture due to high content of P, N, C and microelements. However, this method has many restrictions, e.g. it can contain toxic substances or lack of appropriate land. Thermal sludge treatment methods like pyrolysis have developed crucially in last decade and pyrolysis units for sludge treatment are commercially available now. Pyrolysis becomes the most sustainable method due to recovery of CRMs and better energy recovery comparing to incineration.
Optimization of Proanthocyanidins Extraction from Bark of Local Hardwood
Authors: Janceva Sarmīte , Lauberte Liga , Arshanitsa Alexandr , Akishin Jegor , Dizhbite Tatiana , Telysheva Galina
Published: February 2018

Optimization of extraction conditions of the proanthocyanidins (PAC) and PAC-rich extract (PACE) from bark of alder species (Alnus incana and Alnus glutinosa) were performed varying solvents (ethanol, distilled water), extraction methods (conventional and microwave assisted extraction), extraction temperature (20–120 °C) and extraction times (5–60 minutes). The optimal extraction conditions established in the work provide 87 % PAC transition from the bark of alder species to hydrophilic extracts. On the basis of the extraction results, the technological scheme of PAC and PACE isolation from grey alder bark with focus on biorefinery was developed.
Rheological Properties of Wood-Plastic Composites Based on Polypropylene and Birch Wood Plywood Production Residues
Authors: Kajaks Janis , Kalnins Karlis , Matvejs Juris
Published: February 2018

Article summarizes investigation results of rheological and thermal stability properties of industrially prepared wood plastic composites, based on virgin polypropylene and birch wood plywood production residues-plywood sanding dust (PSD). WPCs PP+40 wt. % PSD contain different modifiers, such as lubricant Struktol TWP (blend of an aliphatic carboxylic acid salts and mono and diamides), sterically hindered phenolic antioxidant 1010, thermal stabilizer 168 (hydrolytically stable phosphite), UV stabilizer 770-low molecular weight hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) and pigments based on LDPE. According to our studies, we could conclude that rheological properties studied by capillary rheometer method, strongly depends on WPCs composition. MFI values fluctuate in limits from 0.212 up to 0.724 g/10min. that is changes 3.4 times. Thermal and antioxidant stabilizers promote increase of thermal stability of WPCs noted by TGA. Curves of fluidity indicates character of typical pseudo-plastic liquids for which viscosity not only depends on temperature and shear stress and deformation rate, but also decrease with increase of shear rate. That confirms fluidity index n values which are smaller than 1.
Electrical Dielectric Permittivity and Conductivity Analysis of Poly(N-Carbazole) (PVK) Blending with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)
Authors: Alias Ahmad Nazib , Zabidi Zubainun Mohamed , Ramlee N. , Yaacob Yanti , Alshurdin Siti Hajar Noor , Ali Abd Malik Marwan , Yahya Muhd Zu Azhan
Published: February 2018

Electrical dielectric spectra and alternating current (ac) conductivity of blended poly (N-vinlycarbazole) (PVK) with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) at different temperature are investigated. The polymer blends were prepared by dissolving in dimethylformamide (DMF) using drop casting method and further dried in vacuum oven. The dielectric and ac conductivity of each sample was investigated using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method. Dielectric permittivity studies revealed that there are significant changes in the spectra at different temperature. The ac conductivity was further analyzed by using universal power law. The hopping parameter was calculated by using correlated barrier hopping model.
Anti-Bacterial Activity and Online HPLC-DPPH Based Antiradical Kinetics of Medicinal Plant Extracts of High Relevance for Cosmetics Production
Authors: Dzabijeva Diana , Boroduske Anete , Ramata-Stunda Anna , Mazarova Natalja , Nikolajeva Vizma , Boroduskis Martins , Nakurte Ilva
Published: February 2018

The present study provides an assessment of extracts of six medicinal plants for their applicability in cosmetic formulations aimed at anti-UV protection and anti-acne treatment. Ethanol extracts of Chelidonium majus L., Myrtus communis L., Hamamelis virginiana L., Juniperus communis L., Alchemilla vulgaris and Ilex paraguariensis are analysed for the phytochemical content, antimicrobial activity, antiradical activity and antiradical kinetics. The phytochemical composition of the plants is investigated by LC-MS analysis and the most active antioxidants in plant extracts are determined by online HPLC-DPPH assay. The kinetic parameters of the antiradical reaction are determined both for the studied plants and chlorogenic acid applying the mathematical treatment of the experimental kinetic data.The study shows that I. paraguariensis ethanolic extract possesses the highest potential in anti-UV and anti-aging cosmetology applications, while M. communis and J. communis reveal excellent antibacterial properties and high potential in anti-acne treatment.
Optimization of the Adsorption Process of Bezaktiv Turquoise Blue «VG» Textile Dye onto Diatomite Using the Taguchi Method
Authors: Aguedal Hakim , Iddou Abdelkader , Locs Janis
Published: February 2018

A design of experiments based on the Taguchi method was used to evaluate the main parameters affecting the removal of textile dyes from aqueous solution. By using the adsorption capacity of textile dye as target response, several experiments were carried out using L27 orthogonal array, and the higher-the-better as quality characteristics was applied. The controlling factors, including initial dye concentration, contact time and pH of solution were assessed. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the effects of each factor on the adsorption capacity. The optimum adsorption conditions giving higher adsorption capacity were selected as initial dye concentration of 500 mg.L-1, contact time of 180 min and pH of solution of 2. The analysis results revealed that the most relevant factors affecting the adsorption process of textile dye are the initial dye concentration and pH of solution. After 3 cycles of thermal regeneration, the diatomite behavior did not change and more than 60 % of dye was eliminated from solution after regeneration at 600°C. From the obtained results, the Taguchi method was very successful to optimize of the adsorption parameters for maximum removal rate, and gives more credibility for industrial application.