bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RATES OF BIOLOGICAL AGING AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL PECULIARITIES IN PATIENTS WITH OCCUPATIONAL NEUROINTOXICATIONS
Authors: Shevchenko O I , Katamanova E V , Lakhman O L
Published: March 2019

This paper presents a quantitative assessment of the aging process in the occupational neurotoxicosis. Acceleration rate of biological aging has been demonstrated in trained workers of a chemical factory exposed to vinylchloride, metallic mercury vapor in patients with newly proven diagnosis - chronic elemental mercury intoxication and chronic elemental mercury intoxication in the long-term period in 1.9; 2.8; 7.2; 7.5 times compared to the rate of a control group. Six-time increase in the proportion of patients with acceleration rate of aging compared to the norm (70 % vs. 12 %) has been found out among fireman-liquidators. To study the interdependence of indicators characterizing the state of cognitive sphere and the rate of biological aging in patients with occupational neurointoxication a correlation analysis of the data of neuropsychological and clinical and physiological studies has been carried out. Raising of biological age and acceleration rate of biological aging in patients with neurointoxications are accompanied by disorders of categoric, conceptual, analytical - synthetical thinking, audio-verbal (short-term) and the visual image memory, spatial and dynamic praxis, objective gnosis, impressive and expressive speech, caused by deficiency of functioning of the frontal, parietal-temporal, parietal-occipital lobes, premotor and parietal regions of the left brain, overlap zone (tertiary temporo-parietal-occipital cortex).
QUALITY OF OUTPATIENT MEDICAL SERVICES IN OUTPATIENT FACILITIES RECEIVED BY ONCOLOGICAL PATIENTS IN SOUTHERN KAZAKHSTAN
Authors: Tazhibayeva K N , Buleshov M A , Buleshova A M , Zhanabayev N S , Buleshov D M , Ivanov S V , Grjibovski A M
Published: March 2019

This article presents the results of a survey of 1734 outpatient patients with oncological diseases from South Kazakhstan region. Altogether, 34 multidisciplinary outpatient medical institutions were included into the survey. 72.1 (95 % CI: 70,0-74,2) % of the patients were satisfied with outpatient medical care. 15.7 % of the patients (95 % CI 14,1-17,5) were unsatisfied. Binary logistic regression revealed the factors which influenced dissatisfaction with outpatient medical care. These were problems with making an appointment with a physician (OR 24.5 (95 % CI: 16.4; 36.7)), waiting time for more than 30 min (OR 1.6 (95 % CI: 1.0; 2.4)), male gender (OR 1.4 (95 % CI: 1.0; 2.0)) and rural residence (OR 2.7 (95 % CI: 2.0; 3.8)). According to results of the survey we highlighted the importance of the outpatient medical care optimization in Kazakhstan.
RELATIONS BETWEEN CYTOTOXIC LYMPHOCYTES AND PROLACTIN IN PHYSIOLOGICAL REGULATION OF THE ADAPTIVE IMMUNE RESPONSE IN WOMEN OF THE ARKHANGELSK AND MURMANSK REGIONS
Authors: Philippova O. E. , Shashkova E Yu , Shchegoleva L S
Published: March 2019

Purpose: to study relations between cytotoxic activity of adaptive immune response and prolactin in healthy female residents of the Arkhangelsk and Murmansk regions. Methods. The sample consisted of 145 women aged 20-49 years. Lymphocytes CD3+, CD5+, CD8+, HLA-DR+ were phenotyped using Nicon Eclipse 50i microscope. Serum immunoglobulins E were assessed by ELISA method using on Stat Fax 2100. Prolactin levels were measured using ELISYS Uno (Germany). All data were analyzed using Statistica 6.0 software. Results. Women aged 20-39 and 40-49 years respectively from the Murmansk region had higher counts of leucosytes (7.77 0.69) and (9.50 1.28) 109 C/l, CD8 (0.49 0.07) and (0.66 0.13) 109 C/l; HLA-DR-activation (0.46 0.07) and (0.62 0.13) 109 C/l and prolactin levels (29.30 14.52) and (18.40 3.24) ng/ml, compared to women from the Arkhangelsk region. CD3 levels were 0.47 0.20 and 0.37 0.01 109 C/l while the corresponding numbers for CD5 were 0.50 1.20 and 0.47 0.09 109 C/l. The most widespread defect of immune protection among residents of the Russian North is a low level of active phagocytes and deficiency of T-lymphocytes (CD3, CD5) irrespective of the area of residence and age. Conclusions. The ratio of immunohormonal parameters in women is characterized by the decrease of the activity of adaptive immunity related to its humoral regulation (HLA-DR, IgE) combined with high cellular mediated cytotoxicity (CD8) and the increased concentration of prolactin, which is more typical for women aged 40+ in the Murmansk region. An increase in CD8 counts combined with CD3 and CD5 deficiency is a reserve mechanism of immune protection.
Analisis Fiqh Lingkungan Terkait Penyalahgunaan Pengelolaan Pertambangan Terhadap Kerusakan Lingkungan Hidup
Authors: Sinapoy Sabaruddin
Published: March 2019

Upaya dalam pengendalian pencemaran dan kerusakan lingkungan hidup akibat pertambangan dilatarbelakangi maraknya aktivitas yang dilakukan perusahaan maupun masyarakat yang tersebar di beberapa wilayah berpotensi menyebabkan pencemaran dan kerusakan lingkungan hidup akibat penggunaan logam berat dalam mengikat mineral dan lahan bekas tambang menjadi lahan tidak produktif. Kegiatan industri pertambangan selain mempunyai dampak positif karena dapat memenuhi kebutuhan hidup masyarakat dan mendatangkan hasil yang cukup besar sebagai sumber devisa, tetapi sisi lain mempunyai dampak negatif cukup besar yaitu dengan banyaknya perizinan yang dikeluarkan, maka mengakibatkan terjadinya kerusakan, kelestarian hutan, hilangnya ekosistem flora-fauna langka maupun baru dan pencemaran lingkungan, sehingga mengganggu kesehatan, serta hilangnya budaya kearifan lokal masyarakat sekitarnya.
Konsensus dan Sikap Para Ulama Salaf Kontemporer dalam Melawan Terorisme dan ISIS
Authors: Sukring Sukring
Published: March 2019

Tragedi Terorisme dan ISIS memiliki daya rusak yang sangat besar. Semua madzhab fiqih dan para ulama salaf kontemporer secara tegas dan jelas telah menyatakan di banyak pendapat mereka, bahwa yang menghalalkan pembunuhan terhadap muslim adalah kafir dan menganggap mereka sebagai khawarij, sehingga bagi para pelaku teror dengan ciri-ciri yang sama diberlakukan tindakan-tindakan yang diperlukan seperti tindakan yang diberlakukan pada khawarij. Tindakan teror dan pembunuhan dalam banyak dalil-dalil Al-Qur’an dan hadis sangat di larang dan termasuk dosa besar. Teror dan kekerasan dalam konsep Islam tidak dibenarkan tidak satu pemikir dan ulama pun yang menolerir baik di luar Islam maupun dalam tubuh Islam sendiri. akhir-akhir ini teror yang mengatasnamakan Islam mulai merebak kembali seiring munculnya kelompok-kelompok ekstremis/keras yang melakukan atas nama gerakan mendirikan Negara Islam atau ingin mengembalikan kejayaan Islam di masa lampau yaitu penegakan Khilafah Islamiyah (ISIS). Sikap para ulama salaf tegas bahwa Islam harus berlandaskan argumen yang rasional dalam mendirikan suatu tatanan kenegaraan. Ulama mayoritas menolak adanya kekerasan dan teror dalam segala aktivitas yang mengatasnamakan Islam.
Capacity to Compensate for Central Hypovolemia and Effects of Menstrual Cycle Phases
Authors: Convertino Victor A. , Schlotman Taylor E. , Stacey Winfred , Hinojosa-Laborde Carmen
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND: Tolerance to central hypovolemia is dictated by exhaustion of the physiological capacity to compensate called the compensatory reserve. Such physiological compromise can have detrimental impact on performance in aerospace environments as well as survival from hemorrhage
on the battlefield. We induced central hypovolemia using progressively stepwise lower body negative pressure (LBNP) in women during various phases of the menstrual cycle to test the hypothesis that similar tolerance across all menstrual cycle phases would be reflected by similar changes in
compensatory reserve.METHODS: Based on self-reporting of the last menstrual period, 40 healthy women, matched by demographics, were classified into 1 of 5 menstrual cycle phases: early follicular (EF, Days 1–7; N = 10), late follicular and ovulatory (LF, Days 9–15,
N = 6), early luteal (EL, Days 16–18, N = 6), midluteal (ML, Days 19–25, N = 8), and late luteal (LL, Days 26–30, N = 10). All subjects had a 28–30 d menstrual cycle and were not taking oral contraceptives. Tolerance to central hypovolemia
was measured as time (seconds) from baseline to the onset of presyncopal symptoms induced by LBNP.RESULTS: Time to presyncope as well as hemodynamic and compensatory reserve responses were statistically indistinguishable across all menstrual cycle phases.DISCUSSION: Consistent
with our hypothesis, compensatory reserve with associated hemodynamic responses and tolerance to central hypovolemia was not affected by menstrual cycle phases. Our findings indicate experimental comparisons of responses to central hypovolemia involving the participation of healthy women with
normal menstrual cycles and not taking oral contraceptives can be conducted independent of menstrual cycle phase.Convertino VA, Schlotman TE, Stacey W, Hinojosa-Laborde C. Capacity to compensate for central hypovolemia and effects of menstrual cycle phases. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2019; 90(4):378–383.
Occupant Injury Severity in General Aviation Accidents Involving Excessive Landing Airspeed
Authors: Boyd Douglas D.
Published: March 2019

BACKGROUND: Of all phases of flight operations, accidents during landings are the most frequent. Of these, poor speed management during landing has ramifications for injury severity since: 1) impact forces increase as a square of forward velocity; and 2) an aerodynamic stall,
associated with inadequate landing speed, imparts high vertical G forces. Herein, the proportion of landing accidents involving deficient airspeed control and occupant injury severity was determined.METHODS: General aviation landing accidents (1997–2016) were identified from
the NTSB database. An accident involving high-airspeed (high-energy) was one for which the NTSB cited airplane porpoising, multiple bounces, or floating, whereas an inadequate airspeed related (low energy) mishap was one citing this term or in which an aerodynamic stall occurred. An anonymous
online survey of certificated pilots was used to inform landing technique. Statistical analyses used Poisson distribution and Chi-squared tests.RESULTS: Relative to the earliest period (1997–2001), the landing accident rate was undiminished for more recent years (2007–2016).
Of 235 accidents, 38% involved high-energy, whereas 4% were inadequate airspeed-related. For the former, 17% resulted in occupants with fatal-serious injuries, twofold higher than for mishaps with no evidence of mis-speed. Of 1392 survey respondents, 73% selected a landing airspeed higher
than required for an under-maximum weight airplane.CONCLUSION: For landing accidents involving airspeed mismanagement, those related to excessive energy predominate and are associated with more severe injuries. Two mitigating strategies are advanced: 1) pilot training should discuss
landing airspeed adjustment for aircraft weight; and 2) installation of inflatable restraints for reducing injury severity should be encouraged.Boyd DD. Occupant injury severity in general aviation accidents involving excessive landing airspeed. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2019;
90(4):355–361.
PENERAPAN MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE STAD PADA BELAJAR IPA SISWA KELAS IV SDN 015 GERINGGING JAYA
Authors: Supono Supono
Published: March 2019

Efforts to improve science learning outcomes through the application of cooperative learning model type STAD grade 4 students SDN 015 Geringging Jaya Kuantan Singingi Regency. Lesson Year 2014/2015 is based on many students who can not understand the learning materials. The purpose of this study is to determine the improvement of learning outcomes of learners through the application of STAD type cooperative learning modes in natural science classes grade IV SDN 015 Geringging Jaya in the even semester. This study is a class action carried out by teachers who teach in the classroom. The data collected is teacher's teacher's and student activity data which is divided into two cycles. Each cycle has four stages: planning, action, observation and reflection. The subjects of this study were the fourth graders of SDN 015 Gringginga Jaya which consisted of 16 students consisting of 9 male students and 6 female students. The results showed that the application of STAD type learning module can improve student learning outcomes of fourth grade students of SDN 015 Geringging Jaya with total number of students who completed in pre cycle as many as 5 students, cycle I with 6 students and cycle II 16 students.
Adam Smith’ten Neoliberalizme Vergi Adaleti: Ödeme Gücü ve Fayda Yaklaşımlarının Kavramsal, Kuramsal ve Ülke Uygulamaları Bağlamında Bir İncelemesi
Authors: AĞDEMİR Zeynep , GÜRKAN Ceyhun
Published: March 2019

Adam Smith vergide eşitlik teorisinde ödeme gücü ve fayda yaklaşımlarını yan yana getirmiştir. Smith’in mali düşüncesinde bakış açısı olarak farklı bu iki adalet ilkesinin neden yan yana geldiği ve aslında düşünürün neyi amaçladığı geniş bir literatür incelemesi içinde ele alınmaktadır. Smith’in genel adalet teorisi bağlamında bu iki ilkenin anlamlı bir sentezine doğru adım attığı görülmüştür. Ancak, Smith hem bu iki ilkenin ayrı ayrı kendi yapısında hem de ikisinin sentezinde bir kuramsallaştırma denememiştir. Neoklasik ve neoliberal maliye teorisi bu sentezi faydacılığı radikalleştirerek gerçekleştirmiştir. Smith’in vergi adaleti klasik liberalizmin bütünü içinde anlaşıldığında neoliberalizmin vergi adaletinde yarattığı dönüşüm de daha açık bir şekilde çalışmada serimlenebilmiştir. Çalışmamız kavramsal ve kuramsal incelememizde ulaştığımız sonuçları farklı ülkeler bağlamında görünür kılmıştır.
Poems by Anahita Jamali Rad
Authors: Rad Anahita Jamali
Published: March 2019

Poems
Poems by Jordan Abel
Authors: Abel Jordan
Published: March 2019

Poems
Poems by Cecily Nicholson
Authors: Nicholson Cecily
Published: March 2019

Poems
Micro-Nano Bioactive Glass Particles Incorporated Porous Scaffold for Promoting Osteogenesis and Angiogenesis in vitro
Authors: Tian Ting , Xie Weihan , Gao Wendong , Wang Gang , Zeng Lei , Miao Guohou , Lei Bo , Lin Zhanyi , Chen Xiaofeng
Published: March 2019

Constructing the interconnected porous biomaterials scaffolds with osteogenesis and angiogenesis capacity is extremely important for efficient bone tissue engineering. Herein, we fabricated a bioactive micro-nano composite scaffolds with excellent in vitro osteogenesis and angiogenesis capacity, based on poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) incorporated with micro-nano bioactive glass (MNBG). The results showed that the addition of MNBG enlarged the pore size, increased the compressive modulus (4 times improvement), enhanced the physiological stability and apatite-forming ability of porous PLGA scaffolds. The in vitro studies indicated that the PLGA-MNBG porous scaffold could enhance the mouse bone mesenchymal stem cells (mBMSCs) attachment, proliferation, and promote the expression of osteogenesis marker (ALP). Additionally, PLGA-MNBG could also support the attachment and proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and significantly enhanced the expression of angiogenesis marker (CD31) of HUVECs. The as-prepared bioactive PLGA-MNBG nanocomposites scaffolds with good osteogenesis and angiogenesis probably have a promising application for bone tissue regeneration.
Responses of Canopy Growth and Yield of Potato Cultivars to Weather Dynamics in a Complex Topography: Belg Farming Seasons in the Gamo Highlands, Ethiopia
Authors: Minda Thomas T. , van der Molen Michiel K. , Vilà-Guerau de Arellano Jordi , Chulda Kanko C. , Struik Paul C.
Published: March 2019

Potato is an increasingly important crop in Ethiopia. The Gamo Highlands are one of the large potential potato producing regions in Ethiopia. The growing conditions are different from those in the temperate regions, where most of the agronomical expertise on potato has been developed. The influence of environmental conditions on the crop in the Gamo Highlands is poorly understood. We conducted field trials with eight potato cultivars in six locations and during two seasons. The canopy cover (CC) and plant height (PH) were measured with high temporal resolution and tuber yields were assessed as well. The experiments were conducted near our newly installed weather stations at different elevations. CC and PH were strongly correlated with temperature sum (Tsum). Tuber yields differed among elevations and cultivars. Nevertheless, these differences were poorly explained by environmental variables. We also found that no single cultivar performed best at all elevations. The number of branches was a predictor of yield, suggesting that radiation interception was limiting tuber growth. Tuber yield was optimal when the number of days to crop maturity was around 100–110 days. We conclude that Tsum is a predictor of crop growth, but environmental variables poorly explain yield variations, which calls for further investigation.
Anthocyanin Accumulation and Color Development of ‘Benitaka’ Table Grape Subjected to Exogenous Abscisic Acid Application at Different Timings of Ripening
Authors: Shahab Muhammad , Roberto Sergio Ruffo , Ahmed Saeed , Colombo Ronan Carlos , Silvestre João Pedro , Koyama Renata , de Souza Reginaldo Teodoro
Published: March 2019

In colored table grapes, the anthocyanin contents are inhibited by the high temperature during ripening and berries suffer a lack of skin color, thus affecting their market value. In order to overcome this issue, a research study was planned to evaluate the influence of (S)-cis-abscisic acid (S-ABA) on rates of anthocyanin accumulation in table grapes when applied at different timings of ripening, and to quantify the gradual increase of berry color. The study was conducted in a commercial vineyard of ‘Benitaka’ table grapes (Vitis vinifera L.), grown under double annual cropping system in a subtropical area. The trials were carried out during two consecutive seasons (i.e., summer season of 2015 and off-season of 2016). The treatments used for the experiments contained 400 mg L−1 S-ABA applied at different timings of veraison (the onset of ripening), as follows: control (with no application); at pre-veraison (PRV); at veraison (V); and at post-veraison (POV). For all S-ABA treatments, a second application was performed 10 days after the first application. Berries were analyzed for weekly and daily anthocyanin accumulations, weekly and daily color index development (CIRG), total soluble solids (TSS) content, titratable acidity (TA), and maturation index (TSS/TA). Grapes subjected to exogenous application of S-ABA at any time of veraison, especially at PRV or at V, significantly increased the anthocyanin accumulation as well as berry color index development. Other chemical properties of grapes (i.e., TSS, TA, and TSS/TA evolution) were not affected by the use of S-ABA and followed a predictable pattern in relation to days of berries ripening.
Effect of Biochar Particle Size on Physical, Hydrological and Chemical Properties of Loamy and Sandy Tropical Soils
Authors: de Jesus Duarte Sara , Glaser Bruno , Pellegrino Cerri Carlos
Published: March 2019

The application of biochar is promising for improving the physical, chemical and hydrological properties of soil. However, there are few studies regarding the influence of biochar particle size. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of biochar size on the physical, chemical and hydrological properties in sandy and loamy tropical soils. For this purpose, an incubation experiment was conducted in the laboratory with eight treatments (control (only soil), two soils (loamy and sandy soil), and three biochar sizes (<0.15 mm; 0.15–2 mm and >2 mm)). Analyses of water content, bulk density, total porosity, pore size distribution, total carbon (TC) and total N (TN) were performed after 1 year of soil–biochar-interactions in the laboratory. The smaller particle size <0.15 mm increased water retention in both soils, particularly in the loamy soil. Bulk density slightly decreased, especially in the loamy soil when biochar > 2 mm and in the sandy soil with the addition of 0.15–2 mm biochar. Porosity increased in both soils with the addition of biochar in the range of 0.15–2 mm. Smaller biochar particles shifted pore size distribution to increased macro and mesoporosity in both soils. Total carbon content increased mainly in sandy soil compared to control treatment; the highest carbon amount was obtained in the biochar size 0.15–2 mm in loamy soil and <0.15 mm in sandy soil, while the TN content and C:N ratio increased slightly with a reduction of the biochar particle size in both soils. These results demonstrate that biochar particle size is crucial for water retention, water availability, pore size distribution, and C sequestration.
An Evaluation of Spelt Crosses for Breeding New Varieties of Spring Spelt
Authors: Packa Danuta , Załuski Dariusz , Graban Łukasz , Lajszner Waldemar
Published: March 2019

This study evaluated F5 breeding lines, which were obtained by crossing five parents of spring spelt from different geographical regions characterized by various morphological and performance traits. A total of 11 quantitative traits were analyzed, including six traits relating to yield components, four traits relating to grain quality, and one trait relating to plant height and sensitivity to lodging. The applied clustering method supported the identification of four groups of breeding lines which were presented graphically in a heatmap with dendrogram. Group I contained 33.0% of the breeding lines, and it was most distant from the remaining groups. It was composed of tall plants characterized by high values of yield components, high fat content, and high sensitivity to lodging. Groups III (30.4%) and IV (17.0%) were most similar and were characterized by lower values of yield components, a high content of protein, ash and fiber, and lower sensitivity to lodging. Group II contained 19.6% of the breeding lines, and it was more similar to groups III and IV than group I. Breeding lines with satisfactory performance traits can be selected from each group and used to breed new varieties with the desired traits.
Analysis of Distribution of Selected Bioactive Compounds in Camelina sativa from Seeds to Pomace and Oil
Authors: Kurasiak-Popowska Danuta , Ryńska Bernadetta , Stuper-Szablewska Kinga
Published: March 2019

Camelina sativa is an oilseed plant that produces seed oil rich in vitamins, UFA (unsaturated fatty acids), phytosterols, and polyphenols. Most, but not all, bioactive compounds are soluble in oil. So far, studies have been based analyzing the profile of bioactive compounds only in oil. As part of this work, it was decided to examine the seeds, oil, and pomace of four genotypes of Camelina sativa (three spring genotypes and one winter cultivar). The transmission of bioactive compounds to oil and pomace was compared to their content in seeds. The quantitative profile of selected bioactive compounds was analyzed: eight flavonoid aglycons, 11 phenolic acids, three carotenoids, and 19 fatty acids. As a result of pressing more than 80% of flavonoids entered oil, whereas 20% remained in the pomace. When the content of phenolic acids in seeds and in oil was compared, it turned out that on average 50% of these compounds entered oil. Among all the phenolic acids under analysis the highest contents of chlorogenic, caffeic, and sinapic acids were found both in camelina seeds and oil. Similarly to the other bioactive compounds, more than 70% of fat-soluble carotenoids were extracted from camelina seeds with oil. Most of the genotypes had the fatty acid composition and the ω-6/ω-3 ratio characteristic of camelina oil. Camelina oil is characterized by properties that enable its extensive use in the food industry.
Transcriptome Analysis of Banana (Musa acuminate L.) in Response to Low-Potassium Stress
Authors: Xu Min , Zeng Can-Bin , He Rui , Yan Zhen , Qi Zhao , Xiong Rui , Cheng Yu , Wei Shuang-Shuang , Tang Hua
Published: March 2019

Potassium (K+) is an abundant and important macronutrient for plants. It plays crucial roles in many growth and developmental processes, and growth is inhibited under low −K+ conditions. The molecular mechanisms operating under K+ starvation have been little reported in banana, which is a non-model plant. We conducted a transcriptome analysis of banana (Musa acuminata L. AAA group, cv. Cavendish) in response to low −K+ stress. The phenotypic traits and transcriptomic profiles of banana leaves and roots were compared between low −K+ (LK) and normal −K+ (NK) groups. The phenotypic parameters for the LK group, including fresh and dry weight, were lower than those for the NK group, which suggested that low −K+ stress may inhibit some important metabolic and biosynthetic processes. K+ content and biomass were both decreased in the LK group compared to the NK group. Following ribonucleic acid sequencing (RNA-Seq), a total of 26,796 expressed genes were detected in normal −K+ leaves (NKL), 27,014 were detected in low −K+ leaves (LKL), 29,158 were detected in normal −K+ roots (NKR), and 28,748 were detected in low −K+ roots (LKR). There were 797 up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 386 down-regulated DEGs in NKL versus LKL, while there were 1917 up-regulated DEGs and 2830 down-regulated DEGs in NKR versus LKR. This suggested that the roots were more sensitive to low −K+ stress than the leaves. DEGs related to K+ transport and uptake were analyzed in detail. Gene functional classification showed that the expression of genes regarding ABC transporters, protein kinases, transcription factors, and ion transporters were also detected, and may play important roles during K+ deficiency.
Multi-Year N and P Removal of a 10-Year-Old Surface Flow Constructed Wetland Treating Agricultural Drainage Waters
Authors: Tolomio Massimo , Dal Ferro Nicola , Borin Maurizio
Published: March 2019

Surface flow constructed wetlands (SFCWs) can be effectively used to treat agricultural drainage waters, reducing N and P surface water pollution. In the Venice Lagoon drainage basin (northeastern Italy), an SFCW was monitored during 2007–2013 to assess its performance in reducing water, N, and P loads more than 10 years after its creation. Nitrogen concentrations showed peaks during winter due to intense leaching from surrounding fields. Phosphorus concentrations were higher after prolonged periods with no discharge, likely due to mobilization of P of the decomposing litter inside the basin. Over the entire period, N removal efficiency was 83% for NO3–N and 79% for total N; P removal efficiency was 48% for PO4–P and 67% for total P. Values were higher than in several other studies, likely due to the fluctuating hydroperiod that produced discontinuous and reduced outflows. Nitrogen outlet concentrations were reduced by the SFCW, and N removal ratios decreased with increasing hydraulic loading, while no strong correlations were found in the case of P. The SFCW was shown to be an effective long-term strategy to increase water storage and reduce N and P loads in the Venice Lagoon drainage basin.
Physico-Chemical Parameters, Phenolic Profile, In Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Volatile Compounds of Ladastacho (Lavandula stoechas) from the Region of Saidona
Authors: Karabagias Ioannis K. , Karabagias Vassilios K. , Riganakos Kyriakos A.
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present study was to characterize Lavandula stoechas (Ladastacho) from the region of Saidona by means of physico-chemical parameters, phenolic profile, in vitro antioxidant activity and volatile compounds. Physico-chemical parameters (pH, acidity, salinity, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity and liquid resistivity) were determined using conventional methods. The phenolic profile was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI-MS), whereas a quantitative determination was also accomplished using the total phenolics assay. In vitro antioxidant activity was determined using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl assay. Finally, volatile compounds were determined using headspace solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS). The results showed that Lavandula stoechas aqueous extract had a slightly acidic pH, low salinity content and considerable electrochemical properties (electrical conductivity and liquid resistivity along with electric potential). In addition, aqueous fractions showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant activity, whereas phenolic compounds, such as caffeic acid, quercetin-O-glucoside, lutelin-O-glucuronide and rosmarinic acid, were identified. Finally, numerous volatile compounds were found to dominate the volatile pattern of this flowering plant, producing a strong, penetrating, cool and menthol-like odour.
Structural and Physicochemical Characteristics of Rice Bran Dietary Fiber by Cellulase and High-Pressure Homogenization
Authors: Xie Fengying , Zhao Tian , Wan Hongchen , Li Miao , Sun Lina , Wang Zhongjiang , Zhang Shuang
Published: March 2019

The present paper aims to study the effect of cellulase hydrolysis and high-pressure homogenization on the structural and physicochemical properties of rice bran dietary fiber (RB-DF). Scanning electron microscopy showed that cellulase treatment led to the formation of a porous structure on RB-DF surface. High-pressure homogenization affected the laminated microstructure of RB-DF, leading to the formation of an irregular and loose surface structure. X-ray diffraction demonstrated that joint processing destroyed the amorphous hemicellulose and cellulose regions, and changed the crystallinity of RB-DF, albeit with a minor impact on the crystalline region of cellulose. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated that combined processing promoted dissociation of some glycosidic bonds in fiber structure, exposing the hydroxyl groups in cellulose, thus improving their ability to bind water molecules. Thermogravimetric analysis showed a significant decrease in the thermal decomposition temperature of RB-DF (p <0.05) as well as a decrease in thermal stability after combined processing. Cellulase hydrolysis and high-pressure homogenization treatment did not improve their oil holding capacity, but significantly increased water holding capacity, swelling capability, and cation exchange capacity of RB-DF. Thus, enzymatic hydrolysis and high-pressure homogenization treatment can change the structure of RB-DF, exposing a large number of hydrophilic groups and enhancing hydration, obtaining uniform RB-DF particle.
Generation and Measurement of Squeezed Vacuum States at Audio-Band Frequencies
Authors: Gao Yinghao , Feng Jinxia , Li Yuanji , Zhang Kuanshou
Published: March 2019

Squeezed vacuum states at audio-band frequencies are important quantum resources for practical applications. We demonstrated the generation of squeezed vacuum states at the audio-band frequencies from a subthreshold optical parametric oscillator with a periodically poled KTiOPO4 crystal pumped by a homemade continuous wave single-frequency dual-wavelength laser. To detect squeezed vacuum states at audio-band frequencies, the influences of the local oscillator (LO) power, the common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of balanced homodyne detectors, and the phase jitter between the LO and squeezed vacuum field on the measurement of squeezed vacuum states at audio-band frequencies were considered. By optimizing the LO power, improving the CMRR of photodetectors to 67 dB based on the design of differential fine-tuning circuit and adjustable bias voltage, and reducing the phase jitter between the LO and squeezed vacuum field to 1.7° with the help of the coherent locking technique, 6.1 ± 0.3 dB squeezed vacuum states at audio frequencies from 5 kHz to 20 kHz were generated. A 3.0 ± 0.3 dB phase squeezed vacuum state was obtained at the audio frequency of 3.5 kHz.
The Evolution of Tissue Engineered Vascular Graft Technologies: From Preclinical Trials to Advancing Patient Care
Authors: Matsuzaki Yuichi , John Kelly , Shoji Toshihiro , Shinoka Toshiharu
Published: March 2019

Currently available synthetic grafts have contributed to improved outcomes in cardiovascular surgery. However, the implementation of these graft materials at small diameters have demonstrated poor patency, inhibiting their use for coronary artery bypass surgery in adults. Additionally, when applied to a pediatric patient population, they are handicapped by their lack of growth ability. Tissue engineered alternatives could possibly address these limitations by producing biocompatible implants with the ability to repair, remodel, grow, and regenerate. A tissue engineered vascular graft (TEVG) generally consists of a scaffold, seeded cells, and the appropriate environmental cues (i.e., growth factors, physical stimulation) to induce tissue formation. This review critically appraises current state-of-the-art techniques for vascular graft production. We additionally examine current graft shortcomings and future prospects, as they relate to cardiovascular surgery, from two major clinical trials.
Quantum Classification Algorithm Based on Competitive Learning Neural Network and Entanglement Measure
Authors: Zidan Mohammed , Abdel-Aty Abdel-Haleem , El-shafei Mahmoud , Feraig Marwa , Al-Sbou Yazeed , Eleuch Hichem , Abdel-Aty Mahmoud
Published: March 2019

In this paper, we develop a novel classification algorithm that is based on the integration between competitive learning and the computational power of quantum computing. The proposed algorithm classifies an input into one of two binary classes even if the input pattern is incomplete. We use the entanglement measure after applying unitary operators to conduct the competition between neurons in order to find the winning class based on wining-take-all. The novelty of the proposed algorithm is shown in its application to the quantum computer. Our idea is validated via classifying the state of Reactor Coolant Pump of a Risky Nuclear Power Plant and compared with other quantum-based competitive neural networks model.
Retrofitting a Building’s Envelope: Sustainability Performance of ETICS with ICB or EPS
Authors: Silvestre José D. , Castelo André M. P. , Silva José J. B. C. , de Brito Jorge M. C. L. , Pinheiro Manuel D.
Published: March 2019

This paper analyses the environmental, energy, and economic performances of the External Thermal Insulation Composite System (ETICS) using agglomerated insulation cork board (ICB) or expanded polystyrene (EPS) as insulation material applied in the energetic renovation of the building envelope during a 50-year study period. A comparison between ETICS using ICB and EPS, for the same time horizon, is also presented. The environmental balance is based on “Cradle to Cradle” (C2C) Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), focusing on the carbon footprint and consumption of nonrenewable primary energy (PE-NRe). The characteristics of these products in terms of thermal insulation, the increased energy performance provided by their installation for retrofit of the buildings’ envelope, and the resulting energy savings are considered in the energy balance. The estimation of the C2C carbon and PE-NRe saved is considered in the final balance between the energy and environmental performances. ETICS with ICB is environmentally advantageous both in terms of carbon footprint and of PE-NRe. In fact, the production stage of ICB is less polluting, while EPS requires lower energy consumption to fulfil the heating and cooling needs of a flat, due to its lower U-Value, and its lower acquisition cost results in a lower C2C cost. Comparing both ETICS’ alternatives with reference solutions, it was found that the latter only perform better in the economic dimension, and only for an energy consumption to fulfil less than 25% of the heating and cooling needs. This paper represents an advance to the current state-of-the-art by including all the life-cycle stages and dimensions of the LCA in the analysis of solutions for energy renovation of building envelopes.
Structural Methodologies for Distributed Fault Detection and Isolation
Authors: Khorasgani Hamed , Biswas Gautam , Jung Daniel
Published: March 2019

The increasing complexity and size of cyber-physical systems (e.g., aircraft, manufacturing processes, and power generation plants) is making it hard to develop centralized diagnosers that are reliable and efficient. In addition, advances in networking technology, along with the availability of inexpensive sensors and processors, are causing a shift in focus from centralized to more distributed diagnosers. This paper develops two structural approaches for distributed fault detection and isolation. The first method uses redundant equation sets for residual generation, referred to as minimal structurally-over-determined sets, and the second is based on the original model equations. We compare the diagnosis performance of the two algorithms and clarify the pros and cons of each method. A case study is used to demonstrate the two methods, and the results are discussed together with directions for future work.
Launch Performance Degradation of the Rupture-Type Missile Canister
Authors: Choi Wonhong , Jung Sunghun
Published: March 2019

This paper describes the degradation of launch performance caused by the remnants of a missile canister cover with a sabot interface, on interference with adjacent structures. First, by including the material plastic behavior and element deletion, we predict interference between the structures and the detached part, followed by excessive deformation. Second, we verify that the support ring deformation, which is induced by an interaction with the cover remains, increases for fastener separations with abnormal fastener installations. This increase further triggers interference with the boosters on the bottom of a missile. Lastly, we analyze the variation of material property in a high-speed environment.
Special Issue on Nano-Systems for Antimicrobial Therapy
Authors: Dacarro Giacomo , Taglietti Angelo
Published: March 2019

Antibacterial materials and surfaces designed and built using the toolbox of nanotechnology are becoming the object of an increasingly boosting interest, responding to the pan-drug resistant bacteria emergency [...]
Optical, Electrical, and Surface Properties of Cu/Plasma Polymer Fluorocarbon Nanocomposite Thin Film Fabricated Using Metal/Polymer Composite Target
Authors: Kim Sung Hyun , Kim Mac , Park Jae Seong , Lee Sang-Jin
Published: March 2019

We propose a new method of fabricating metal–polymer composite targets for sputtering, which makes it easier to control the composition and enables the homogeneous and reproducible fabrication of metal–polymer nanocomposites over large areas. Using Cu/polytetrafluoroethylene composite targets containing 20, 50, and 80 wt.% Cu, Cu/plasma polymer fluorocarbon (PPFC) nanocomposite thin films were prepared by radio-frequency (RF) sputtering. Targets with 80 wt.% Cu were conductive; moreover, sputtering was possible not only with RF but also with mid-range frequency (MF) and direct current (DC) power sources. The nanocomposite thin film deposited by MF and DC power using an 80 wt.% Cu target showed near-metallic characteristics, exhibited absorption peaks at 618 and 678 nm, and had a surface resistance of 2 × 104 and 34.55 Ω/sq, respectively. We also analyzed the structure and composition of the Cu/PPFC nanocomposite films by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The described metal–polymer targets can advance the applications and commercialization of nanocomposite thin films.
Dynamic Parameter Identification of a Long-Span Arch Bridge Based on GNSS-RTK Combined with CEEMDAN-WP Analysis
Authors: Xiong Chunbao , Yu Lina , Niu Yanbo
Published: March 2019

Under the action of wind, traffic, and other influences, long-span bridges are prone to large deformation, resulting in instability and even destruction. To investigate the dynamic characteristics of a long-span concrete-filled steel tubular arch bridge, we chose a global navigation satellite systems-real-time kinematic (GNSS-RTK) to monitor its vibration responses under ambient excitation. A novel approach, the use of complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise combined with wavelet packet (CEEMDAN-WP) is proposed in this study to increase the accuracy of the signal collected by GNSS-RTK. Fast Fourier transform (FFT) and random decrement technique (RDT) were adopted to calculate structural modal parameters. To verify the combined denoising and modal parameter identification methods proposed in this paper, we established the structural finite element model (FEM) for comparison. Through simulation and comparison, we were able to draw the following conclusions. (1) GNSS-RTK can be used to monitor the dynamic response of long-span bridges under ambient excitation; (2) the CEEMDAN-WP is an efficient method used for the noise reduction of GNSS-RTK signals; (3) after signal filtering and noise reduction, structural modal parameters are successfully derived through RDT and illustrated graphically; and (4) the first-order natural frequency identified by field measurement is slightly higher than the FEM in this work, which may have been caused by bridge damage or the inadequate accuracy of the finite element model.
Nonlinear and Non-Stationary Detection for Measured Dynamic Signal from Bridge Structure Based on Adaptive Decomposition and Multiscale Recurrence Analysis
Authors: Zhang Erhua , Shan Deshan , Li Qiao
Published: March 2019

To test the nonlinearity and non-stationarity of measured dynamic signals from a bridge structure with high-level noise and dense modal characteristics, a method that combines the adaptive signal decomposition with the recurrence analysis is proposed to solve the difficulty of testing nonlinearity and non-stationarity of bridge structure signals. A novel white noise assistance and cluster analysis are introduced to the ensemble empirical mode decomposition to alleviate mode-mixing issues and generate single-mode intrinsic mode functions. Combining the hypothesis-testing scheme of nonstationary and nonlinear synchronization and surrogate techniques, a data-driven recurrence quantification analysis method is proposed and a novel recurrence quantification measure pairs are set up. To demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed methodology, complex signals, which are collected from a carefully instrumented model of a cable-stayed bridge, are utilized as the basis for comparing with traditional nonlinear and non-stationary test methods. Results show that the proposed multiscale recurrence method is feasible and effective for applications to a nonlinear and non-stationary test for real complex civil structures.
Spatial Modes of Laser-Induced Mass Transfer in Micro-Gaps
Authors: Foertsch Tobias C. , Davis Alex T. , Popov Roman , von Bojničić-Kninski Clemens , Held Felix E. , Tsogoeva Svetlana B. , Loeffler Felix F. , Nesterov-Mueller Alexander
Published: March 2019

We have observed the concentric deposition patterns of small molecules transferred by means of laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT). The patterns comprised different parts whose presence changed with the experimental constraints in a mode-like fashion. In experiments, we studied this previously unknown phenomenon and derived model assumptions for its emergence. We identified aerosol micro-flow and geometric confinement as the mechanism behind the mass transfer and the cause of the concentric patterns. We validated our model using a simulation.
Application of 3D Digital Image Correlation for Development and Validation of FEM Model of Self-Supporting Arch Structures
Authors: Malowany Krzysztof , Piekarczuk Artur , Malesa Marcin , Kujawińska Małgorzata , Więch Przemysław
Published: March 2019

Many building structures, due to a complex geometry and non-linear material properties, are cumbersome to analyze with finite element method (FEM). A good example is a self-supporting arch-shaped steel sheets. Considering the uncommon geometry and material profile of an arch (due to plastic deformations, cross section of a trough, a goffer pattern), the local loss of stability can occur in unexpected regions. Therefore, the hybrid experimental-numerical methodology of analysis and optimization of arch structures have been proposed. The methodology is based on three steps of development and validation of a FEM with utilization of a digital image correlation (DIC) method. The experiments are performed by means of 3D DIC systems adopted sequentially for each measurement step conditions from small size sections, through few segment constructions up to full scale in situ objects.
Applications of Continuous Wave Free Precession Sequences in Low-Field, Time-Domain NMR
Authors: Bueno Moraes Tiago , Monaretto Tatiana , Colnago Luiz Alberto
Published: March 2019

This review discusses the theory and applications of the Continuous Wave Free Precession (CWFP) sequence in low-field, time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance (TD-NMR). CWFP is a special case of the Steady State Free Precession (SSFP) regime that is obtained when a train of radiofrequency pulses, separated by a time interval Tp shorter than the effective transverse relaxation time (T2*), is applied to a sample. Unlike regular pulsed experiments, in the CWFP regime, the amplitude is not dependent on T1. Therefore, Tp should be as short as possible (limited by hardware). For Tp < 0.5 ms, thousands of scans can be performed per second, and the signal to noise ratio can be enhanced by more than one order of magnitude. The amplitude of the CWFP signal is dependent on T1/T2; therefore, it can be used in quantitative analyses for samples with a similar relaxation ratio. The time constant to reach the CWFP regime (T*) is also dependent on relaxation times and flip angle (θ). Therefore, T* has been used as a single shot experiment to measure T1 using a low flip angle (5°) or T2, using θ = 180°. For measuring T1 and T2 simultaneously in a single experiment, it is necessary to use θ = 90°, the values of T* and M0, and the magnitude of CWFP signal |Mss|. Therefore, CWFP is an important sequence for TD-NMR, being an alternative to the Carr-Purcell-Meiboom-Gill sequence, which depends only on T2. The use of CWFP for the improvement of the signal to noise ratio in quantitative and qualitative analyses and in relaxation measurements are presented and discussed.
Nanoporous Materials and Their Applications
Authors: Pergher Sibele B. C. , Rodríguez-Castellón Enrique
Published: March 2019

Investigations into nanoporous materials and their applications continue to afford a wealth of novel materials and new applications [...]