bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Looking Back to Move Forward: Using History to Understand the Consensual Forest Management Model in the Terai, Nepal
Authors: Pravat Poshendra Satyal
Published: June 2016

Forest management policy in Nepal’s Terai region has witnessed increasing conflicts and contested debates, particularly over who should manage the region’s valuable forests. While the government advocates collaborative management in the form of a partnership between the government itself and the local communities, community forestry activists oppose this model and argue instead for total community control of local forests. One way of overcoming this policy impasse is to look back and reflect on how past forest politics and policy affected local people and forests. This paper attempts to explore historically the impacts of past forest politics and policy on social equity and ecology, in hopes to provide an insightful opening to a more reasoned discussion. It is suggested that past forest politics and policies may continue to influence the forest bureaucracy in Nepal and, hence, shape present-day forest management in the Terai. The paper argues that Terai forestry has historically been an inequitable sector, principally benefiting the state and the ruling class, with ordinary Nepali people not receiving a fair share of the benefits. In the context of the rapidly changing political transformation in Nepal, with major political actors, including the Maoists, agreeing to a major restructuring of the state, the paper argues that it would be a blunder to overlook the history of Terai forestry, in particular issues that have a bearing upon transparent and accountable forest governance. It is argued that more open, proactive and deliberative dialogue between the various stakeholders of Terai forestry is the key to exploring and understanding the intricacies of the consensual model of forest management in the region.
Limitations of Environmental Success Without Successful Environmental Policy
Authors: Schönach Paula
Published: June 2016

After the Second World War, Helsinki experienced decades of modernization and rising living standards, but also the adverse consequences of modern urban life. Air pollution from energy generation, industries, waste incineration and traffic became increasingly obvious from the late 1950s onward. Scientific uncertainty about the nature and severity of the problem, together with a lack of appropriate legal tools to combat air pollution, resulted in the failure of city officials’ attempts to deal effectively with polluters. Hegemonic attitudes concerning the nation’s economic future led to reluctance to demand costly air-protection measures – pollution was partly accepted as the price to pay for higher living standards. Paradoxically, in spite of this, the air quality in Helsinki eventually improved remarkably, after having been at its worst in the late 1960s. The main causes of this development– the transition to district heating and the relocation of polluting industries away from Helsinki – were a consequence of economic calculations in the context of an energy supply crisis and the specific geographic limitations of the city. The city’s improved air quality was a result of partial problem displacement combined with economically motivated structural changes. This paper examines the reasons for this environmentally advantageous outcome, which was achieved in the absence of a particularly successful environmental policy.
Traditional knowledge in the Defence of the Cultural Landscape of Tlajomulco, Mexico
Authors: Ayala Marìa de la Luz , Huerta Edith R. Jiménez
Published: June 2016

Like other people who live in the older settlements around the city of Guadalajara, the inhabitants of Tlajomulco have a comprehensive vision of their villages and surroundings. They have been living on the land and off the land for centuries. At the end of the 20th century, the cultural landscape of Tlajomulco began its latest transformation. The formerly fertile flatlands gave way to large-scale sterile real estate developments. In the rainy season the waters of the water basin, once used to irrigate crop fields, now flood the houses and roads created by this new urbanization. As the city expands, the forests that supplied timber, charcoal and wood, as well as other goods obtained by hunting and gathering, are diminishing and their biodiversity is threatened. At the dawn of the 21st century, the cultural and environmental diversity that has characterized these villages for centuries is thus in danger of being lost to unplanned urban sprawl. The aim of this paper is to encourage conservation and prevent further deterioration by making more widely known the rich cultural landscape of the traditional villages of Tlajomulco and the know-how of the inhabitants that has contributed to its conservation.
The Origins and Purpose of Eco-Innovation
Authors: Pansera Mario
Published: June 2016

Nowadays, eco-friendly technologies are considered a strategic objective in industrialised countries. Rising demand for more sustainable products and services from civil society has become a major challenge for policy makers. The present article aims to provide a historical perspective on the concept of eco-innovation, its different meanings and its position in the modern debate around sustainability. The first part of the article explores the origins of the notion of eco-innovation, drawing on the Sustainable Development debate. The second part attempts to shed light on the purpose of eco-innovation and its implications for a desirable sustainable transition in modern industrial societies. This part illustrates the essential differences between mainstream economics and the School of Ecological Economics. Finally, the third part attempts to describe the social and institutional changes necessary to foster eco-innovation.
World Water Day 2012. "Water and Food Security: The World is Thirsty Because We are Hungry"
Authors: Quagliarotti Desiree
Published: June 2016

The World Water Day held in 2012 focused on the link between water use and food production. Today the challenge is to meet the nutritional needs of a growing world population in a context of natural resource scarcity. The world population is predicted to grow from 7 billion in 2011 to 8.3 billion in 2030 and 9.1 billion in 2050. Consequently, by 2030 food demand is predicted to increase by 50 percent. In this context, water is a strategic variable since it is an increasingly scarce resource and one of the fundamental input factors in food production. For example, the average person drinks about 2.5 litres of water a day, about 1500 litres of water are required to produce 1 kilogram of wheat, and 10 times more to produce 1 kilogram of beef. Producing feed crops for livestock, slaughtering and meat processing, and extracting and producing milk and other dairy products require large quantities of water. Th e booming demand for livestock products is increasing the demand for water at every stage along the livestock value chain. The aim of this year’s World Water Day was thus to open an international debate in order to identify strategic choices capable of combining, globally and locally, the objective of food security with that of water resource protection.
Outcome of Laparoscopic Versus Open Appendicectomy: An Experience from BIRDEM General Hospital
Authors: Talukder Md Rajibul Haque , Alam Hasina , Alam Md Noor A , Anwar Raihan , Iqbal Md Roushan , Chowdhury Humayun Kabir
Published: June 2016

Aims: The aims of the study were to compare the safety and benefits of laparoscopic versus open appendicectomy.Methods: This cross-sectional study was done in BIRDEM General Hospital from June 2005 to December 2006.Seventy patients with acute appendicitis were included in this study, half underwent laparoscopic procedure and half open conventional procedure.We evaluated the length of hospitalization, postoperative morbidity (pain, wound infection, chest complication, paralytic ileus),cosmesis and return to normal activity among two methods of operations.Results: The duration of surgery in open group was 30 to 70 minutes with a mean duration of 47.57 minutes. In case of laparoscopic group the mean duration was 38.71 minutes with a range from 30 to 60 minutes. In open group 28 cases (80.0%) required opioid for satisfactory pain relief whereas in laparoscopic group only 9 (25.71%) cases required opioid. Gross infection with pus collection occurred in 2 (5.7%) cases in open appendicectomy (OA) group and none inlaparoscopic appendicectomy (LA) group. Post-operative hospital stay in open group ranged from 2 to 18 days with a mean of 6.74 days. For laparoscopic group the duration was 1 to 5 days with a mean of 2.31 days. Patients in open procedure returned to normal activity within 11-23 days with a mean of 15 days and in lap group the figures were 2-15 days and 6 days respectively. In open group 65.71% (n=23) were satisfied with the scar they had whereas 91.4% (n=32) were satisfied with their scar in lap group.Conclusion: The study indicates that the laparoscopic appendicectomy is feasible and safe for majority of patients with acute appendicitis.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1) Supplement: 13-17
Bariatric Surgical Treatment for Obese Adolescents and Children
Authors: Choudhury Kamal M , Zafar Sheikh Mohammad Abu
Published: June 2016

Like in adults, the prevalence of childhood and adolescent obesity is increasing globally. The consequences of severe obesity are serious and for that reason the World Health Organization has recognized obesity as a disease. Among the treatment options for obesity comprising dietary restriction, increased physical activities and weight-reduction surgery, only the last one provides a sustained and consistent weightloss in obese patients. Numerous recent studies have validated this fact in favor of bariatric surgeries. Although in spite of having been associated with considerable significant complications, these are gaining popularity particularly in morbid obesity. The justification of bariatric surgeries in children and adolescents is still a contentious issue especially in regards to their physiologic growth and development. In many advanced countries, pediatric bariatric surgeries are being done under strict guidelines including India; but in our country, it is still in conceptual stage. Here we present essentially a conceptual framework and clinical guideline for bariatric surgery in adolescents and children in this review.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1) Supplement: 34-42
Adrenal Insufficiency
Authors: Ashrafuzzaman SM , Rahim Muhammad Abdur
Published: June 2016

Adrenal insufficiency means hypo-function of the adrenal cortex, usually glucocorticoid, may be associated with mineralocorticoid and rarely adrenal androgen. It can be categorized into two types: Primary adrenal insufficiency, or Addisons disease (cortisol low and ACTH high) or secondary/ tertiary adrenal insufficiency due to pituitary or hypothalamic disorders (both cortisol and ACTH are low). Identification of etiology is very important for plan of treatment. The reported incidence of adrenal insufficiency varies greatly depending on the population studied, the test and cut off levels used, and the cause. Many patients may present with adrenal crisis, some of them have subtle symptoms, hyperpigmentation, hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, shock etc. Many of them have iatrogenic adrenal insufficiency with features of Cushings syndrome. So, the manifestations of adrenal insufficiency are numerous and nonspecific, and clinicians should have a high index of suspicion and be alert to see important diagnostic clues, such as hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypotension (that are refractory to fluids and vasopressors), diarrhea, weight loss, vomiting, fever etc. without any clear causation. Treatment of adrenal insufficiency is usually life-long, of course based on etiology. Short acting glucocorticoid is better, like hydrocortisone. Patients may be treated with prednisolone. Patients should be provided a steroid card. Sometimes it is essential to take patients under withdrawal protocol.Birdem Med J 2015; 5(1) Supplement: 43-48
From the Desk of the Executive Editor Vol. 5
Authors: Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: June 2016

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2015; 5(1) Supplement: 70
In vitro evaluation of fungicides and plant extracts against the fungi associated with seeds of nine chickpea varieties
Authors: Khatun Amina , Shamsi Shamim
Published: June 2016

A total of nine species of fungi were found to be associated with seeds of nine varieties of chickpea. The isolated fungi were Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissler, Aspergillus flavus Link., A. niger Van Tiegh., A. fumigatus Fresenius., A. nidulans Eidam, Curvularia lunata (Wakker) Boedijn, Penicillium Link., Rhizopus stolonifer (Ehrenb.: Fr.) Vuill and Trichoderma viride Pers. Five fungicides viz., Bavistin 50 WP, Dithane M-45, Greengel 72 WP, Ridomil MZ Gold and Tall 25 EC at 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 ppm were evaluated against the test fungi. Tall 25 EC were found most efficient inhibitor which completely inhibited the radial growth of the test fungi followed by Bavistin 50 WP, Dithane M-45 and Greengel 72 WP. Antifungal properties of ethanol extracts of Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Allium sativum L., Citrus medica L., Datura metel L. and Psidium guajava L. at 5, 10 and 20% concentrations were evaluated against the test fungi. Allium sativum L. was found most efficient inhibitor of the test fungi followed by D. metel L., A. indica A. Juss., C. medica L. and P. guajava L.Dhaka Univ. J. Biol. Sci. 25(1): 83-90, 2016
Control Chart in Microbiological Cleaning Efficacy of Pharmaceutical Facility
Authors: Eissa Mostafa Essam , Mahmoud Ahmed Mohamed , Nouby Ahmed Saber
Published: June 2016

Statistical process control and quality control charts have important applications in the field of microbiological quality control of clean area. Monitoring the environment and the surface samples using contact plates  is critical to verify microbiological cleaning efficacy of the surface and to understand the behavior of the operation. In the current study, RODAC (Replicate Organism Detection and Counting) plates were used to sample surfaces in production rooms for semisolid and liquid products in a course of two years and overall performance was assessed using I-MR chart and data were subjected to analysis. The throughput yield (TPY) was 0.999993 and the overall process capability was acceptable (Ppk was 1.45). The used methodology in microbiological quality control is simple, fast and not expensive, which provides insight for the evaluation of the process efficiency and highlights the limiting factors and the drawbacks that affect the performance.Dhaka Univ. J. Pharm. Sci. 14(2): 133-138, 2015 (December)
A Theoretical Investigation of the Structural, Spectroscopic and Optical Properties of Adenine
Authors: Alauddin M , Islam MM , Hasan MK , Bredow T , Aziz MA
Published: June 2016

The structural, spectroscopic (IR, NMR and UVis) UV-Vis) and optical properties of adenine (6-aminopurine, C5H5N5) are investigated theoretically using HF/DFT hybrid approach B3LYP. The calculated results are compared with available experimental data. The optimized bond distances and bond angles are converged within ±0.01 Å and ±0.8° with respect to the experimental values. The investigation of1H NMR chemical shift spectra of the aromatic C-H protons shows that the maximum deviation of the calculated chemical shift is ~ 0.53 ppm compared to the experimental data. The calculated vibrational spectra analysis shows four distinct IR active mode of vibrations which are assigned as scissoring vibration of NH2, symmetric stretching vibration of, NH2, free NH vibration and anti-symmetric stretching vibration ofNH2, respectively The electronic and optical properties are calculated by Time Dependent Density Functional Theory (TD-DFT) approach. A reasonable agreement is obtained for the calculated optical absorption energy with the experimental value. Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 64(1): 77-81, 2016 (January)
Supply Chain Optimization by Mixed Integer Program for Manufacturer and Retailer System of Poultry firm in Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Mohammad Khairul , Uddin Mohammed Forhad , Alam Md M
Published: June 2016

In this study, we formulate mixed integer program for manufacturer and retailer system of poultry firm in Bangladesh that is one of the most promising sectors to increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate plus equitable distribution through arranging food security as well as ensuring self-employment, creating purchasing power and reducing poverty at a large scale. From the survey, it has observed that the selling price of eggs and chicken fluctuate depending on the natural calamities. We have made a question survey on some poultry firm in the district of Mymensingh and Gazipur. This paper maximized the profit and minimizes the cost. The formulated mixed integer program has solved by branch and bound algorithm using A Mathematical Programming Language (AMPL). It has observed that the profit and selling price have very good relationship with production cost and raw materials cost but no significant relation with fixed cost.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 34 (2014) 75-87
Compressibility Effects in 2d Wall Heating Microchannel flow
Authors: Islam Md Tajul
Published: June 2016

In this article we present a numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equations and energy equation in parallel plate microchannels with the first order slip boundary conditions on the walls, adopting control volume scheme of CFD technique. Wall heating condition was considered on the walls. Noslip boundary conditions for compressible and incompressible flows were also solved to compare the effect of slip conditions. Compressibility effects were also investigated for compressible slip and compressible noslip flow conditions. A series of simulations were performed for different heights and lengths of channels and pressure ratios. Results are presented in graphs and tables and are compared with the available analytical and experimental results. It was found that the friction constants are the highest for noslip compressible flow and lowest for the slip flow against pressure ratio and mach numbers. Friction constant decreases continuously for compressible slip flow but it approaches to an asymptotic value of 96 for compressible noslip flow for the decrease of aspect ratio.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 57-71
Generalized Derivations Acting as Homomorphisms and Anti-Homomorphisms on Lie Ideals of Prime Rings
Authors: Paul Akhil Chandra , Chakraborty Sujoy
Published: June 2016

Let U be a non-zero square closed Lie ideal of a 2-torsion free prime ring R and f a generalized derivation of R with the associated derivation d of R. If f acts as a homomorphism and as an anti-homomorphism on U, then we prove that d = 0 or U  Z(R), the centre of R.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 73-77
Numerical Relativity: Solving Geodesics equation for Massive Particle Around Black Holes Horizon
Authors: Ahmed Shohel , Ali Md Showkat
Published: June 2016

General relativity is the most beautiful physical theory ever invented. It describes one of the most pervasive features of the world we experience - gravitation. The gravitational field acts on nearby matter defines by the curvature of space-time. The black holes of nature are the most perfect macroscopic objects there are in the universe that constructed our concept of space-time. In this paper we use Einsteins general relativity to model the motions of massive particles around the two black holes: static and rotating. These equations of motion around black holes will be studied with special focus towards the variation of symmetry by the change of gravitational effect.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 35 (2015) 79-85
Simultaneous Determination of the Main Peanut Allergens in Foods Using Disposable Amperometric Magnetic Beads-Based Immunosensing Platforms
Authors: Ruiz-Valdepeñas Montiel Víctor , Torrente-Rodríguez Rebeca , Campuzano Susana , Pellicanò Alessandro , Reviejo Ángel , Cosio Maria , Pingarrón José
Published: June 2016

In this work, a novel magnetic beads (MBs)-based immunosensing approach for the rapid and simultaneous determination of the main peanut allergenic proteins (Ara h 1 and Ara h 2) is reported. It involves the use of sandwich-type immunoassays using selective capture and detector antibodies and carboxylic acid-modified magnetic beads (HOOC-MBs). Amperometric detection at −0.20 V was performed using dual screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPdCEs) and the H2O2/hydroquinone (HQ) system. This methodology exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity for the target proteins providing detection limits of 18.0 and 0.07 ng/mL for Ara h 1 and Ara h 2, respectively, with an assay time of only 2 h. The usefulness of the approach was evaluated by detecting the endogenous content of both allergenic proteins in different food extracts as well as trace amounts of peanut allergen (0.0001% or 1.0 mg/kg) in wheat flour spiked samples. The developed platform provides better Low detection limits (LODs) in shorter assay times than those claimed for the allergen specific commercial ELISA kits using the same immunoreagents and quantitative information on individual food allergen levels. Moreover, the flexibility of the methodology makes it readily translate to the detection of other food-allergens.
Multiatom Quantum Coherences in Micromasers as Fuel for Thermal and Nonthermal Machines
Authors: Dağ Ceren , Niedenzu Wolfgang , Müstecaplıoğlu Özgür , Kurizki Gershon
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we address the question: To what extent is the quantum state preparation of multiatom clusters (before they are injected into the microwave cavity) instrumental for determining not only the kind of machine we may operate, but also the quantitative bounds of its performance? Figuratively speaking, if the multiatom cluster is the “crude oil”, the question is: Which preparation of the cluster is the refining process that can deliver a “gasoline” with a “specific octane”? We classify coherences or quantum correlations among the atoms according to their ability to serve as: (i) fuel for nonthermal machines corresponding to atomic states whose coherences displace or squeeze the cavity field, as well as cause its heating; and (ii) fuel that is purely “combustible”, i.e., corresponds to atomic states that only allow for heat and entropy exchange with the field and can energize a proper heat engine. We identify highly promising multiatom states for each kind of fuel and propose viable experimental schemes for their implementation.
Multiple Description Coding Based on Optimized Redundancy Removal for 3D Depth Map
Authors: Han Sen , Bai Huihui , Zhang Mengmeng
Published: June 2016

Multiple description (MD) coding is a promising alternative for the robust transmission of information over error-prone channels. In 3D image technology, the depth map represents the distance between the camera and objects in the scene. Using the depth map combined with the existing multiview image, it can be efficient to synthesize images of any virtual viewpoint position, which can display more realistic 3D scenes. Differently from the conventional 2D texture image, the depth map contains a lot of spatial redundancy information, which is not necessary for view synthesis, but may result in the waste of compressed bits, especially when using MD coding for robust transmission. In this paper, we focus on the redundancy removal of MD coding based on the DCT (discrete cosine transform) domain. In view of the characteristics of DCT coefficients, at the encoder, a Lagrange optimization approach is designed to determine the amounts of high frequency coefficients in the DCT domain to be removed. It is noted considering the low computing complexity that the entropy is adopted to estimate the bit rate in the optimization. Furthermore, at the decoder, adaptive zero-padding is applied to reconstruct the depth map when some information is lost. The experimental results have shown that compared to the corresponding scheme, the proposed method demonstrates better rate central and side distortion performance.
An Integrated Multifunctional Bidirectional AC/DC and DC/DC Converter for Electric Vehicles Applications
Authors: Pan Liwen , Zhang Chengning
Published: June 2016

This paper presents an on-board vehicular battery charger that integrates bidirectional AC/DC converter and DC/DC converter to achieve high power density for application in electric vehicles (EVs). The integrated charger is able to transfer electrical energy between the battery pack and the electric traction system and to function as an AC/DC battery charger. The integrated charger topology is presented and the design of passive components is discussed. The control schemes are developed for motor drive system and battery-charging system with a power pulsation reduction circuit. Simulation results in MATLAB/Simulink and experiments on a 30-kW motor drive and 3.3-kW AC/DC charging prototype validate the performance of the proposed technology. In addition, power losses, efficiency comparison and thermal stress for the integrated charger are illustrated. The results of the analyses show the validity of the advanced integrated charger for electric vehicles.
Super-Twisting Differentiator-Based High Order Sliding Mode Voltage Control Design for DC-DC Buck Converters
Authors: Huangfu Yigeng , Zhuo Shengrong , Rathore Akshay , Breaz Elena , Nahid-Mobarakeh Babak , Gao Fei
Published: June 2016

This paper aims to focus on the smooth output of DC-DC buck converters in wireless power transfer systems under input perturbations and load disturbances using the high-order sliding mode controller (HOSM) and HOSM with super-twisting differentiator (HOSM + STD). The proposed control approach needs only measurement of converter output voltage. Theoretical analysis and design procedures, as well as the super-twisting differentiator of the proposed controller are presented in detail with the prescribed convergence law of high-order sliding modes. Comparisons of both simulation and experimental results among conventional proportional-integral (PI) control, traditional sliding mode control (SMC), HOSM and HOSM + STD under various test conditions such as steady state, input voltage perturbations and output load disturbances, are presented and discussed. The results demonstrate and validate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control method.
Implementation and Validation of a Self-Consumption Maximization Energy Management Strategy in a Vanadium Redox Flow BIPV Demonstrator
Authors: Fialho Luis , Fartaria Tomás , Narvarte Luis , Collares Pereira Manuel
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the results of the implementation of a self-consumption maximization strategy tested in a real-scale Vanadium Redox Flow Battery (VRFB) (5 kW, 60 kWh) and Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) demonstrator (6.74 kWp). The tested energy management strategy aims to maximize the consumption of energy generated by a BIPV system through the usage of a battery. Whenever possible, the residual load is either stored in the battery to be used later or is supplied by the energy stored previously. The strategy was tested over seven days in a real-scale VRF battery to assess the validity of this battery to implement BIPV-focused energy management strategies. The results show that it was possible to obtain a self-consumption ratio of 100.0%, and that 75.6% of the energy consumed was provided by PV power. The VRFB was able to perform the strategy, although it was noticed that the available power (either to charge or discharge) varied with the state of charge.
Greening the NetFPGA Reference Router
Authors: Guo Feng , Wang Xiaojun , Song Mei , Wei Yifei , Ormond Olga , Collier Martin
Published: June 2016

Energy efficiency is an important criterion in the design of next generation networks for both economic and environmental concerns. This paper presents an energy-efficient router that is able to dynamically adapt its routing capability in response to real-time traffic load, achieving energy proportional routing. The NetFPGA reference router, which operates at one of two frequencies (125 MHz or 62.5 MHz), requires a board reset to switch frequencies. We have modified the reference router to allow dynamic switching among five operating frequencies. Experiments with real traces indicate that, compared to the reference router, a 10% power reduction can be achieved through dynamic frequency scaling. When the router is further modified to support green traffic engineering and Ethernet port shut-down, power consumption can be reduced by 46% while maintaining the required quality of service. This allows the router to meet the instantaneous performance requirements while minimizing power dissipation. Similar results can be expected when these general power-saving principles are applied in future commercial routers.
Effects of Two-Step Transamidation of Wheat Semolina on the Technological Properties of Gluten
Authors: Moscaritolo Salvatore , Treppiccione Lucia , Ottombrino Antonio , Rossi Mauro
Published: June 2016

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated disorder caused by the ingestion of wheat gluten. A lifelong, gluten-free diet is required to alleviate symptoms and to normalize the intestinal mucosa. We previously found that transamidation reaction by microbial transglutaminase (mTG) was effective in down-regulating the gliadin-specific immune response in CD patients. In this study, the two-step transamidation protocol was adopted to treat commercial wheat semolina on a pilot scale. The effectiveness of the enzymatic reaction was tested by means of consolidated biochemical and immunological methods on isolated prolamins. We found that water-insoluble gliadin and glutenin yields decreased in wheat semolina to 5.9% ± 0.3% and 11.6% ± 0.1%, respectively, after a two-step transamidation reaction. Using DQ8 transgenic mice as a model of gluten sensitivity, we observed a dramatic reduction in IFN-γ production in spleen cells challenged in vitro with the residual insoluble gliadin from transamidated semolina (N = 6; median values: 850 vs. 102; control vs. transamidated semolina, p < 0.05). The technological properties of treated wheat semolina were then tested by manufacturing classical pasta (spaghetti). Notably, the spaghetti manufactured with transamidated semolina had only minor changes in its features before and after cooking. In conclusion, the two-step transamidation reaction modified the immunogenic epitopes of gliadins also on a pilot-scale level without influencing the main technological properties of semolina. Our data shed further light on a detoxification strategy alternative to the current gluten-free diet and may have important implications for the management of CD patients.
Spectral Estimation Model Construction of Heavy Metals in Mining Reclamation Areas
Authors: Dong Jihong , Dai Wenting , Xu Jiren , Li Songnian
Published: June 2016

The study reported here examined, as the research subject, surface soils in the Liuxin mining area of Xuzhou, and explored the heavy metal content and spectral data by establishing quantitative models with Multivariable Linear Regression (MLR), Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) and Sequential Minimal Optimization for Support Vector Machine (SMO-SVM) methods. The study results are as follows: (1) the estimations of the spectral inversion models established based on MLR, GRNN and SMO-SVM are satisfactory, and the MLR model provides the worst estimation, with R2 of more than 0.46. This result suggests that the stress sensitive bands of heavy metal pollution contain enough effective spectral information; (2) the GRNN model can simulate the data from small samples more effectively than the MLR model, and the R2 between the contents of the five heavy metals estimated by the GRNN model and the measured values are approximately 0.7; (3) the stability and accuracy of the spectral estimation using the SMO-SVM model are obviously better than that of the GRNN and MLR models. Among all five types of heavy metals, the estimation for cadmium (Cd) is the best when using the SMO-SVM model, and its R2 value reaches 0.8628; (4) using the optimal model to invert the Cd content in wheat that are planted on mine reclamation soil, the R2 and RMSE between the measured and the estimated values are 0.6683 and 0.0489, respectively. This result suggests that the method using the SMO-SVM model to estimate the contents of heavy metals in wheat samples is feasible.
Household Air Pollution Exposure and Influence of Lifestyle on Respiratory Health and Lung Function in Belizean Adults and Children: A Field Study
Authors: Kurti Stephanie , Kurti Allison , Emerson Sam , Rosenkranz Richard , Smith Joshua , Harms Craig , Rosenkranz Sara
Published: June 2016

Household air pollution (HAP) contributes to the global burden of disease. Our primary purpose was to determine whether HAP exposure was associated with reduced lung function and respiratory and non-respiratory symptoms in Belizean adults and children. Our secondary purpose was to investigate whether lifestyle (physical activity (PA) and fruit and vegetable consumption (FV)) is associated with reported symptoms. Belizean adults (n = 67, 19 Male) and children (n = 23, 6 Male) from San Ignacio Belize and surrounding areas participated in this cross-sectional study. Data collection took place at free walk-in clinics. Investigators performed initial screenings and administered questionnaires on (1) sources of HAP exposure; (2) reported respiratory and non-respiratory symptoms and (3) validated lifestyle questionnaires. Participants then performed pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and exhaled breath carbon monoxide (CO). There were no significant associations between HAP exposure and pulmonary function in adults. Increased exhaled CO was associated with a significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1-s divided by forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) in children. Exposed adults experienced headaches, burning eyes, wheezing and phlegm production more frequently than unexposed adults. Adults who met PA guidelines were less likely to experience tightness and pressure in the chest compared to those not meeting guidelines. In conclusion, adults exposed to HAP experienced greater respiratory and non-respiratory symptoms, which may be attenuated by lifestyle modifications.
Novel Hybrid Peptide Cecropin A (1–8)-LL37 (17–30) with Potential Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Wei Xu-Biao , Wu Ru-Juan , Si Da-Yong , Liao Xiu-Dong , Zhang Lu-Lu , Zhang Ri-Jun
Published: June 2016

Hybridizing different antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) is a particularly successful approach to obtain novel AMPs with increased antimicrobial activity but minimized cytotoxicity. The hybrid peptide cecropin A (1–8)-LL37 (17–30) (C-L) combining the hydrophobic N-terminal fragment of cecropin A (C) with the core antimicrobial fragment of LL37 (L) was designed and synthesized. C-L showed higher antibacterial activity against all indicator strains than C and L, and no hemolytic activity to sheep erythrocytes was observed. C-L kills bacterial cells and causes disruption of surface structure, as determined by scanning electron microscopy. Synergistic effects were observed in the combination of C-L with several antibiotics (chloramphenicol, thiamphenicol, or neomycin sulfate) against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Structure and Functional Diversity of GCN5-Related N-Acetyltransferases (GNAT)
Authors: Salah Ud-Din Abu , Tikhomirova Alexandra , Roujeinikova Anna
Published: June 2016

General control non-repressible 5 (GCN5)-related N-acetyltransferases (GNAT) catalyze the transfer of an acyl moiety from acyl coenzyme A (acyl-CoA) to a diverse group of substrates and are widely distributed in all domains of life. This review of the currently available data acquired on GNAT enzymes by a combination of structural, mutagenesis and kinetic methods summarizes the key similarities and differences between several distinctly different families within the GNAT superfamily, with an emphasis on the mechanistic insights obtained from the analysis of the complexes with substrates or inhibitors. It discusses the structural basis for the common acetyltransferase mechanism, outlines the factors important for the substrate recognition, and describes the mechanism of action of inhibitors of these enzymes. It is anticipated that understanding of the structural basis behind the reaction and substrate specificity of the enzymes from this superfamily can be exploited in the development of novel therapeutics to treat human diseases and combat emerging multidrug-resistant microbial infections.
TSPO PIGA Ligands Promote Neurosteroidogenesis and Human Astrocyte Well-Being
Authors: Da Pozzo Eleonora , Giacomelli Chiara , Costa Barbara , Cavallini Chiara , Taliani Sabrina , Barresi Elisabetta , Da Settimo Federico , Martini Claudia
Published: June 2016

The steroidogenic 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) is an emerging, attractive therapeutic tool for several pathological conditions of the nervous system. Here, 13 high affinity TSPO ligands belonging to our previously described N,N-dialkyl-2-phenylindol-3-ylglyoxylamide (PIGA) class were evaluated for their potential ability to affect the cellular Oxidative Metabolism Activity/Proliferation index, which is used as a measure of astrocyte well-being. The most active PIGA ligands were also assessed for steroidogenic activity in terms of pregnenolone production, and the values were related to the metabolic index in rat and human models. The results showed a positive correlation between the increase in the Oxidative Metabolism Activity/Proliferation index and the pharmacologically induced stimulation of steroidogenesis. The specific involvement of steroid molecules in mediating the metabolic effects of the PIGA ligands was demonstrated using aminoglutethimide, a specific inhibitor of the first step of steroid biosynthesis. The most promising steroidogenic PIGA ligands were the 2-naphthyl derivatives that showed a long residence time to the target, in agreement with our previous data. In conclusion, TSPO ligand-induced neurosteroidogenesis was involved in astrocyte well-being.
Aquaporins and Brain Tumors
Authors: Maugeri Rosario , Schiera Gabriella , Di Liegro Carlo , Fricano Anna , Iacopino Domenico , Di Liegro Italia
Published: June 2016

Brain primary tumors are among the most diverse and complex human cancers, and they are normally classified on the basis of the cell-type and/or the grade of malignancy (the most malignant being glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), grade IV). Glioma cells are able to migrate throughout the brain and to stimulate angiogenesis, by inducing brain capillary endothelial cell proliferation. This in turn causes loss of tight junctions and fragility of the blood–brain barrier, which becomes leaky. As a consequence, the most serious clinical complication of glioblastoma is the vasogenic brain edema. Both glioma cell migration and edema have been correlated with modification of the expression/localization of different isoforms of aquaporins (AQPs), a family of water channels, some of which are also involved in the transport of other small molecules, such as glycerol and urea. In this review, we discuss relationships among expression/localization of AQPs and brain tumors/edema, also focusing on the possible role of these molecules as both diagnostic biomarkers of cancer progression, and therapeutic targets. Finally, we will discuss the possibility that AQPs, together with other cancer promoting factors, can be exchanged among brain cells via extracellular vesicles (EVs).
Copper-Zinc-Tin-Sulfur Thin Film Using Spin-Coating Technology
Authors: Yeh Min-Yen , Lei Po-Hsun , Lin Shao-Hsein , Yang Chyi-Da
Published: June 2016

Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) thin films were deposited on glass substrates by using spin-coating and an annealing process, which can improve the crystallinity and morphology of the thin films. The grain size, optical gap, and atomic contents of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), tin (Sn), and sulfur (S) in a CZTS thin film absorber relate to the concentrations of aqueous precursor solutions containing copper chloride (CuCl2), zinc chloride (ZnCl2), tin chloride (SnCl2), and thiourea (SC(NH2)2), whereas the electrical properties of CZTS thin films depend on the annealing temperature and the atomic content ratios of Cu/(Zn + Sn) and Zn/Sn. All of the CZTS films were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS), Raman spectroscopy, and Hall measurements. Furthermore, CZTS thin film was deposited on an n-type silicon substrate by using spin-coating to form an Mo/p-CZTS/n-Si/Al heterostructured solar cell. The p-CZTS/n-Si heterostructured solar cell showed a conversion efficiency of 1.13% with Voc = 520 mV, Jsc = 3.28 mA/cm2, and fill-factor (FF) = 66%.
Synthesis and Characterization of Nanocrystalline Al-20 at. % Cu Powders Produced by Mechanical Alloying
Authors: Makhlouf Molka , Bachaga Tarek , Sunol Joan , Dammak Mohamed , Khitouni Mohamed
Published: June 2016

Mechanical alloying is a powder processing technique used to process materials farther from equilibrium state. This technique is mainly used to process difficult-to-alloy materials in which the solid solubility is limited and to process materials where nonequilibrium phases cannot be produced at room temperature through conventional processing techniques. This work deals with the microstructural properties of the Al-20 at. % Cu alloy prepared by high-energy ball milling of elemental aluminum and copper powders. The ball milling of powders was carried out in a planetary mill in order to obtain a nanostructured Al-20 at. % Cu alloy. The obtained powders were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The structural modifications at different stages of the ball milling are investigated with X-ray diffraction. Several microstructure parameters such as the crystallite sizes, microstrains and lattice parameters are determined.
An Intervention with Mineral Water Decreases Cardiometabolic Risk Biomarkers. A Crossover, Randomised, Controlled Trial with Two Mineral Waters in Moderately Hypercholesterolaemic Adults
Authors: Toxqui Laura , Vaquero M.
Published: June 2016

Water intake is essential for health maintenance and disease prevention. The effects of an intervention with two mineral waters, sodium-bicarbonated mineral water (BW) or control mineral water low in mineral content (CW), on cardiometabolic risk biomarkers were studied. In a randomised-controlled crossover-trial, sixty-four moderately hypercholesterolaemic adults were randomly assigned to consume 1 L/day of either BW (sodium, 1 g/L; bicarbonate, 2 g/L) or CW with the main meals for eight weeks, separated by an eight-week washout period. Blood lipids, lipid oxidation, glucose, insulin, aldosterone, urine pH, urinary electrolytes, blood pressure, body weight, fluid intake, energy, and nutrients from total diet and beverages were determined. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and glucose decreased (p < 0.01), oxidised LDL tended to decrease (p = 0.073), and apolipoprotein B increased during the intervention, without water type effect. Energy and carbohydrates from beverages decreased since soft drinks and fruit juice consumptions decreased throughout the trial. BW increased urinary pH (p = 0.006) and reduced calcium/creatinine excretion (p = 0.011). Urinary potassium/creatinine decreased with both waters. Consumption of 1 L/day of mineral water with the main meals reduces cardiometabolic risk biomarkers, likely to be attributed to a replacement of soft drinks by water. In addition, BW does not affect blood pressure and exerts a moderate alkalizing effect in the body.
Safety of Continuous Infusion Ketorolac in Postoperative Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Patients
Authors: Howard Meredith , Warhurst Robert , Sheehan Courtney
Published: June 2016

Background:Continuous infusion ketorolac is sometimes utilized for analgesia in postoperative coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients despite contraindications for use. Limited literature surrounds this topic; therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the safety of this practice. Methods: This retrospective cohort study evaluated the primary outcome of mortality and secondary outcomes of incidence of bleeding and myocardial infarction (MI). All patients who underwent isolated CABG surgeries and received continuous infusion ketorolac during the study period were included. An equal number of randomly selected isolated CABG patients served as control patients. Electronic medical records and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database were utilized to determine baseline characteristics and outcomes; Results: One hundred and seventy-eight patients met inclusion; 89 in each group. More patients in the control group underwent on-pump surgeries (78.6% vs. 29.2%, p = 0.01) and had higher STS risk scores (1.1% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.003). There was no difference in mortality between the ketorolac group and control group (2.2% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.605). Additionally, no patients experienced a MI and there was no difference in bleeding incidence (5.5% vs. 6.7%, p = 0.58); Conclusions: No association was found between continuous infusion ketorolac and increased risk of mortality, MI, or bleeding events in postoperative CABG patients. Considerations to differences in baseline characteristics must be made when interpreting results.
A Multi-Data Source and Multi-Sensor Approach for the 3D Reconstruction and Web Visualization of a Complex Archaelogical Site: The Case Study of “Tolmo De Minateda”
Authors: Torres-Martínez Jose , Seddaiu Marcello , Rodríguez-Gonzálvez Pablo , Hernández-López David , González-Aguilera Diego
Published: June 2016

The complexity of archaeological sites hinders creation of an integral model using the current Geomatic techniques (i.e., aerial, close-range photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanner) individually. A multi-sensor approach is therefore proposed as the optimal solution to provide a 3D reconstruction and visualization of these complex sites. Sensor registration represents a riveting milestone when automation is required and when aerial and terrestrial datasets must be integrated. To this end, several problems must be solved: coordinate system definition, geo-referencing, co-registration of point clouds, geometric and radiometric homogeneity, etc. The proposed multi-data source and multi-sensor approach is applied to the study case of the “Tolmo de Minateda” archaeological site. A total extension of 9 ha is reconstructed, with an adapted level of detail, by an ultralight aerial platform (paratrike), an unmanned aerial vehicle, a terrestrial laser scanner and terrestrial photogrammetry. Finally, a mobile device (e.g., tablet or smartphone) has been used to integrate, optimize and visualize all this information, providing added value to archaeologists and heritage managers who want to use an efficient tool for their works at the site, and even for non-expert users who just want to know more about the archaeological settlement.