bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural Regeneration of the Mangrove Vegetation on Abandoned Salt Ponds in Ceará, in the Semi-Arid Region of Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Reis-Neto Armando Soares dos , Meireles Antonio Jeovah de Andrade , Cunha-Lignon Marília
Published: February 2019

The development of the mangrove in Ceará state, northeastern Brazil, is limited by local environmental and climatic factors, associated with the variables that determine the region’s semi-arid climatic conditions. The same conditions also contribute to the installation of artisanal saltworks in estuarine environments. The artisanal production of salt peaked in the 20th century, but with the decline of this activity, the salt evaporation ponds were abandoned, and have been incorporated back into the natural marine-estuarine environment and colonized by mangrove forests. In the early 2000s, however, the expansion of shrimp farming operations impacted this same environment. The present study was based on a spatiotemporal analysis of the natural regeneration of the mangrove vegetation in abandoned salt pond areas in the Brazilian semi-arid region between 1968 and 2009. The integrated analysis of mangrove ecosystem dynamics and the legislation that regulates the licensing of these economic activities identified a number of technical problems in the formulation and execution of the COEMA resolution 02/2002, which permits the installation of shrimp farms in areas dominated by the mangrove. The findings of the present study reinforce the need for a careful reformulation of the Ceará state environmental legislation, in order to guarantee the maximum possible conservation of the coastal zone.
Lichens and Bromeliads as Bioindicators of Heavy Metal Deposition in Ecuador
Authors: Benítez Ángel , Medina Jefferson , Vásquez Cristina , Loaiza Talía , Luzuriaga Yesenia , Calva James
Published: February 2019

We evaluated heavy metal deposition in Parmotrema arnoldii and Tillandsia usneoides in response to air pollution in Loja city, Ecuador. We assessed heavy metal (cadmium, copper, manganese, lead and zinc) content in these organisms at nine study sites inside Loja city and three control sites in nearby forests. Concentrations of all studied heavy metals (i.e., cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn) and zinc (Zn)) were highest in downtown Loja. Our study confirms that passive monitoring using lichens and/or bromeliads can be an efficient tool to evaluate heavy metal deposition related to urbanization (e.g., vehicle emissions). We recommend these organisms to be used in cost-effective monitoring of air pollution in tropical countries.
Advances in Drone Communications, State-of-the-Art and Architectures
Authors: Sharma Vishal
Published: February 2019

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-enabled networks and drone communications are emerging areas of research with a key focus on attaining high throughput, elongated range, and enhanced coverage over the existing networks [...]
Wreckfish (Polyprion americanus). New Knowledge About Reproduction, Larval Husbandry, and Nutrition. Promise as a New Species for Aquaculture
Authors: Pérez Evaristo , Linares Fátima , Rodríguez Villanueva José Luis , Vilar Antonio , Mylonas Constantinos C. , Fakriadis Ioannis , Papadaki Maria , Papandroulakis Nikos , Papadakis Ioannis , Robles Rocío , Fauvel Christian , Roo Javier , Peleteiro José Benito , Lluch Nuria , Pazos Gema , Méndez Belén , Sigelaki Irini , Gómez Castora , Pérez Montse , Álvarez-Blázquez Blanca
Published: February 2019

Four different wreckfish (Polyprion americanus) broodstock batches were maintained in research facilities under different photo and thermo-period conditions, one in Greece, the Helenic Center for Marine Research (HCMR, n = 3) and three in Spain: Instituto Español de Oceanografía (IEO, n = 13) in Vigo, Aquarium Finisterrae (MC2, n = 21) in A Coruña and Consellería do Mar (CMRM, n = 11). The CMRM includes two centers that work together: Instituto Galego de Formación en Acuicultura (IGAFA) and Centro de Investigacións Mariñas (CIMA), both in Pontevedra. During the five years of the project DIVERSIFY (Exploring the biological and socio-economic potential of new-emerging candidate fish species for the expansion of the European aquaculture industry, 2013–2018) works focused on the reproductive biology of the species, broodstock, and larvae nutrition and development of incubation and larval rearing protocols have been carried out. In terms of reproduction, catch methods of new wild animals, the reproductive cycle, sperm characteristics evaluation, and spontaneous and induced spawning methods have been described for wreckfish. Regarding nutrition, the positive effect of two types of enrichment on the fatty acid profiles of Artemia and rotifer has been verified. The relationship between the fatty acid profile of the diets supplied to the broodstock and the fatty acid profile obtained in the oocytes and eggs of the females fed with different diets, has also been demonstrated. Finally, early larval ontogeny has been described and incubation and larval rearing protocols have been proposed based on the results obtained in the different experiments of temperature, growth, survival, and larval feeding that were carried out.
Identification of the Structures for Low Reynolds Number Flow in the Strong Magnetic Field
Authors: Pleskacz Łukasz , Fornalik-Wajs Elzbieta
Published: February 2019

Thermomagnetic convection is still a phenomenon which generates interest among researchers. The authors decided to focus their attention on the magnetic field influence on forced convection and analyze the extended Graetz–Brinkman problem. A numerical model based on a commonly available solver implemented with user-defined functions was used. The results exhibited the variety of possible flow structures depending on the dimensionless parameters, namely Prandtl and Reynolds numbers. Three flow structure classes were distinguished, and they provide a platform for further research.
Identification of Essential Proteins Based on Improved HITS Algorithm
Authors: Lei Xiujuan , Wang Siguo , Wu Fangxiang
Published: February 2019

Essential proteins are critical to the development and survival of cells. Identifying and analyzing essential proteins is vital to understand the molecular mechanisms of living cells and design new drugs. With the development of high-throughput technologies, many protein–protein interaction (PPI) data are available, which facilitates the studies of essential proteins at the network level. Up to now, although various computational methods have been proposed, the prediction precision still needs to be improved. In this paper, we propose a novel method by applying Hyperlink-Induced Topic Search (HITS) on weighted PPI networks to detect essential proteins, named HSEP. First, an original undirected PPI network is transformed into a bidirectional PPI network. Then, both biological information and network topological characteristics are taken into account to weighted PPI networks. Pieces of biological information include gene expression data, Gene Ontology (GO) annotation and subcellular localization. The edge clustering coefficient is represented as network topological characteristics to measure the closeness of two connected nodes. We conducted experiments on two species, namely Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Drosophila melanogaster, and the experimental results show that HSEP outperformed some state-of-the-art essential proteins detection techniques.
Application of a Real-Time Tsunami Forecast System to the Disaster Response of Local Governments during a Major Tsunami Disaster
Authors: Kubo Tomohiro , Suzuki Wataru , Ooi Masahiro , Takahashi Narumi , Asao Kazumi , Yoshioka Kaoru
Published: February 2019

We applied a real-time tsunami inundation forecast system to a disaster response plan. We developed a standard operating procedure (SOP) for a tsunami disaster response based on a Plan, Do, Check, Action cycle to effectively use tsunami observation and prediction information provided by a real-time tsunami inundation forecast system during an initial response to a tsunami disaster. In the Plan stage, we ran a workshop on the tsunami disaster response to confirm the current tsunami disaster response plan and develop a timeline plan for a tsunami disaster. In the Do stage, we conducted a tabletop exercise (TTX) for a tsunami disaster using a real-time tsunami prediction system. In the Check stage, we ran a workshop on an after-action review of the TTX. In the Action stage, we applied the SOPs of the real-time tsunami prediction system to the tsunami disaster management plan and conducted a second TTX. As a result, we verified the information provided by a real-time tsunami prediction system to apply the system to a tsunami disaster management plan for real municipalities. It was confirmed that the SOP that we developed allows a real-time tsunami inundation forecast system to enable government staff to safely and effectively respond during a disaster.
Readiness and Success of Ubiquitous Learning in Indonesia: Perspectives from the Implementation of a Pilot Project
Authors: Subiyakto A’ang , Hidayah Nur Aeni , Gusti Gregoryo , Hikami Muhammad Ariful
Published: February 2019

The implementation of ubiquitous learning (u-learning) is a good opportunity to address the affordability, accessibility, and quality issues of the higher education sector that are present in many countries. However, its broad application is still limited within the instructionist paradigm. Improving its implementation performance is a challenge for researchers and practitioners. This study aimed to understand the readiness and success status of u-learning implementation in Indonesia and to assess factors influencing the status based on stakeholder perspectives. A mixed methods inquiry with the sequential nested strategy was carried out by focusing on a quantitative analysis. The findings revealed that the readiness constructs influence u-learning performance. The study may contribute, theoretically and practically, to future studies, especially u-learning implementation studies, from the perspective of a developing country.
Mineralogical Characteristics and Isothermal Oxidation Kinetics of Ironsand Pellets
Authors: Wang Yaozu , Zhang Jianliang , Liu Zhengjian
Published: February 2019

An in-depth understanding of mineralogical characteristics and the oxidation behaviors of ironsand is of great significance to make the best of ironsand and develop Ti-containing pellets. This paper quantitatively characterized the mineralogical characteristics of the ironsand from East Java in Indonesia through X-ray diffraction (XRD-Rietveld) and scanning electron microscope (SEM-EDS). The results indicated that the mineral composition of the ironsand was magnetite (22.7%), titanomagnetite (40.9%), enstatite (17.1%), hematite–ilmenite solid solution (14.5%), and magnesium iron aluminum silicon oxide (5.8%). The microstructure characterization of pellets after oxidation showed that the porosity of the pellets decreased from 20.7% to 11.7% with temperatures ranging from 1073 to 1473 K. Moreover, the activation energies of ironsand pellets were calculated by using model-function method. The calculated data of different mechanism functions indicated that the chemical reaction mechanism for the early stage of the oxidation fit A2 (random nucleation and nuclei growth) well, the chemical reaction mechanism for the post-oxidation at 1073–1273 K fit F1 (chemical reaction) well, and the chemical reaction mechanism for the post-oxidation at 1373 and 1473 K fit D4 (diffusion) well. The reaction mechanism and the limited link was finally discussed based on the kinetic analysis and the mineralogical characteristics.
Solvent Extraction and Separation of Nd, Pr and Dy from Leach Liquor of Waste NdFeB Magnet Using the Nitrate Form of Mextral® 336At in the Presence of Aquo-Complexing Agent EDTA
Authors: Kumari Aarti , Sahu Kamala Kanta , Sahu Sushanta Kumar
Published: February 2019

Solvent extraction and separation of Pr, Nd and Dy from a synthetic leach solution of spent NdFeB magnet from wind turbines in the presence of aquo-complexing agent Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) was studied using the nitrate form of Mextral® 336At ([336At][NO3]) as an extractant. The effect of different process parameters such as pH, extractant, nitrate, and EDTA concentrations on the extraction of Pr, Nd and Dy was studied. The extraction of these rare earths elements follows the order Pr > Nd > Dy, whereas EDTA forms stable complexes in the order Dy > Nd > Pr. The synergy of these two effects improved the selectivity among these elements as compared to when no aquo-complexing agent was used. The mechanism of extraction of rare earth elements was established by slope analysis method. The Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of [336At][NO3] and extracted Nd complex were recorded to understand the interaction of extractant with rare earth metal ions in the organic phase.
The Improvement on the Performance of DMD Hadamard Transform Near-Infrared Spectrometer by Double Filter Strategy and a New Hadamard Mask
Authors: Lu Zifeng , Zhang Jinghang , Liu Hua , Xu Jialin , Li Jinhuan
Published: February 2019

In the Hadamard transform (HT) near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer, there are defects that can create a nonuniform distribution of spectral energy, significantly influencing the absorbance of the whole spectrum, generating stray light, and making the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the spectrum inconsistent. To address this issue and improve the performance of the digital micromirror device (DMD) Hadamard transform near-infrared spectrometer, a split waveband scan mode is proposed to mitigate the impact of the stray light, and a new Hadamard mask of variable-width stripes is put forward to improve the SNR of the spectrometer. The results of the simulations and experiments indicate that by the new scan mode and Hadamard mask, the influence of stray light is restrained and reduced. In addition, the SNR of the spectrometer also is increased.
Tunable Memristic Characteristics Based on Graphene Oxide Charge-Trap Memory
Authors: Li Lei
Published: February 2019

Solution-processable nonvolatile memory devices, consisted of graphene oxide (GO) embedded into an insulating polymer polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), were manufactured. By varying the GO content in PMMA nanocomposite films, the memristic conductance behavior of the Ni/PMMA:GO/Indium tin oxide (ITO) sandwiched structure can be tuned in a controllable manner. An investigation was made on the memristic performance mechanism regarding GO charge-trap memory; these blends were further characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectra (FTIR), Raman spectra, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectra in particular. Dependent on the GO content, the resistive switching was originated from the charges trapped in GO, for which bipolar tunable memristic behaviors were observed. PMMA:GO composites possess an ideal capability for large area device applications with the benefits of superior electronic properties and easy chemical modification.
Advances in Capacitive Micromachined Ultrasonic Transducers
Authors: Brenner Kevin , Ergun Arif , Firouzi Kamyar , Rasmussen Morten , Stedman Quintin , Khuri–Yakub Butrus
Published: February 2019

Capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) technology has enjoyed rapid development in the last decade. Advancements both in fabrication and integration, coupled with improved modelling, has enabled CMUTs to make their way into mainstream ultrasound imaging systems and find commercial success. In this review paper, we touch upon recent advancements in CMUT technology at all levels of abstraction; modeling, fabrication, integration, and applications. Regarding applications, we discuss future trends for CMUTs and their impact within the broad field of biomedical imaging.
Multinucleation of Incubated Cells and Their Morphological Differences Compared to Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Sugita Shukei , Munechika Risa , Nakamura Masanori
Published: February 2019

Some cells cultured in vitro have multiple nuclei. Since cultured cells are used in various fields of science, including tissue engineering, the nature of the multinucleated cells must be determined. However, multinucleated cells are not frequently observed. In this study, a method to efficiently obtain multinucleated cells was established and their morphological properties were investigated. Initially, we established conditions to quickly and easily generate multinucleated cells by seeding a Xenopus tadpole epithelium tissue-derived cell line (XTC-YF) on less and more hydrophilic dishes, and incubating the cultures with medium supplemented with or without Y-27632—a ROCK inhibitor—to reduce cell contractility. Notably, 88% of the cells cultured on a less hydrophilic dish in medium supplemented with Y-27632 became multinucleate 48 h after seeding, whereas less than 5% of cells cultured under other conditions exhibited this morphology. Some cells showed an odd number (three and five) of cell nuclei 72 h after seeding. Multinucleated cells displayed a significantly smaller nuclear area, larger cell area, and smaller nuclear circularity. As changes in the morphology of the cells correlated with their functions, the proposed method would help researchers understand the functions of multinucleated cells.
Release Behaviors of Arsenic and Heavy Metals from Arsenic Sulfide Sludge during Simulated Storage
Authors: Yao Liwei , Min Xiaobo , Ke Yong , Wang Yunyan , Liang Yanjie , Yan Xu , Xu Hui , Fei Jiangchi , Li Yuancheng , Liu Degang , Yang Kang
Published: February 2019

Non-ferrous metal smelting enterprises produce hundreds of thousands of tons of arsenic sulfide sludge (ASS) each year in China. Most of the ASS are stored at the companies without enough preventive measures. During the storage and natural drying process, arsenic sulfide is easily oxidized, thereby causing secondary pollution and increasing environmental risks. In this paper, experiments of simulated storage were used to study the release characteristics of heavy metals. During the simulated storage, the release concentrations of As, Pb, and Cd increased rapidly at first and then slowly. Although the total amount of arsenic released was the largest, the release ratio was in the order of Cd > Pb > As. The effects of different atmospheres and conditions on the release of arsenic and heavy metals were explored. The more the H2SO4 in the sludge, the higher the release concentration, and the addition of an appropriate amount of Ca(OH)2 is beneficial for reducing the release of heavy metals. Finally, SEM, XRD and TG-DTG techniques were carried out to confirm that the release of heavy metals was caused by the oxidation process resulting from the residual H2SO4 in the ASS and the air.
The Pharmaceutical Industry in 2018. An Analysis of FDA Drug Approvals from the Perspective of Molecules
Authors: G. de la Torre Beatriz , Albericio Fernando
Published: February 2019

The Food and Drug Administration approved 59 new drugs (42 New Chemical Entities and 17 Biologics) during 2018. This number breaks the previous record of 53 approved by the same organization in 1996. The 17 new biologics approved in 2018 also represent an important milestone for this kind of drug and they clearly exceed the 12 approved in 2015 and 2017. Herein, the 59 new drugs of the class of 2018 are analyzed from a strictly chemical perspective. The classification has been carried out on the basis of the chemical structure and includes the following: Biologics (antibodies and enzymes); TIDES (peptides and oligonucleotides) and natural products; drug combinations; and small molecules.
Relationship between Cocoa Intake and Healthy Status: A Pilot Study in University Students
Authors: Rodríguez-Lagunas Maria J. , Vicente Filipa , Pereira Paula , Castell Margarida , Pérez-Cano Francisco J.
Published: February 2019

Due to its polyphenol content, cocoa’s potential health effects are attracting much attention, showing, among other things, cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and neuroprotective actions. However, there is very limited information regarding the effect of cocoa on human immunity. This study aimed to establish the relationship between cocoa consumption and health status, focusing on physical activity habits and allergy prevalence in young people. For this, a sample of 270 university students was recruited to complete a food frequency questionnaire, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and a lifestyle and health status questionnaire. The results were analysed by classifying the participants into tertiles defined according to their cocoa consumption: low (LC), moderate (MC), and high (HC) consumers. The consumption of cocoa inversely correlated with physical activity and the MC group had significantly less chronic disease frequency than the LC group. The percentage of allergic people in the MC and HC groups was lower than that in the LC group and, moreover, the cocoa intake, especially moderate consumption, was also associated with a lower presence of allergic symptoms. Thus, from these results a positive effect of cocoa intake on allergy can be suggested in the young population.
New Brush-Type Chiral Stationary Phases for Enantioseparation of Pharmaceutical Drugs
Authors: Knežević Anamarija , Novak Jurica , Vinković Vladimir
Published: February 2019

The importance of chirality in drug development is unquestionable, with chiral liquid chromatography (LC) being the most adequate technique for its analysis. Among the various types of chiral stationary phases (CSPs) for LC, brush-type CSPs provide the base for interaction analysis of CSPs and enantiomers, which provide valuable results that can be applied to interaction studies of other CSP types. In order to analyze the influence of aromatic interactions in chiral recognition, we designed a set of ten new brush-type CSPs based on (S)-N-(1-aryl-propyl)-3,5-dinitrobenzamides which differ in the aromatic unit directly linked to the chiral center. Thirty diverse racemates, including several nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and 3-hydroxybenzodiazepine drugs, were used to evaluate the prepared CSPs. Chromatographic analysis showed that the three new CSPs separate enantiomers of a wide range of compounds and their chromatographic behavior is comparable to the most versatile brush-type CSP—Whelk-O1. The critical role of the nonbonding interactions in positioning of the analyte (naproxen) in the cleft of CSP-6, as well as the analysis of interactions that make enantioseparation possible, were elucidated using computational methods. Furthermore, the influence of acetic acid as a mobile phase additive, on this enantiorecognition process was corroborated by calculations.
Reducing Redundant Alarms in the Pediatric ICU
Authors: Dewan Maya , Cipriani Lindsay , Boyer Jacqueline , Stark Julie , Seger Brandy , Tegtmeyer Ken
Published: February 2019

Physiologic monitors generate alarms to alert clinicians to signs of instability. However, these monitors also create alarm fatigue that places patients at risk. Redundant alarms have contributed to alarm fatigue without improving patient safety. In this study, our specific aim was to decrease the median percentage of redundant alarms by 50% within 6 months using the Model for Improvement. Our primary outcome was to lower the percentage of redundant alarms. We used the overall alarm rate per patient per day and code blue events as balancing metrics. We completed three Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles and generated run charts using standard industry criteria to determine the special cause. Ultimately, we decreased redundant alarms from a baseline of 6.4% of all alarms to 1.8%, surpassing our aim of a 50% reduction. Our overall alarm rate, one of our balancing metrics, decreased from 137 alarms/patient day to 118 alarms/patient day during the intervention period. No code blue events were determined to be related to incorrect setting of alarms. Decreasing redundant alarms is safe and feasible. Following a reduction in redundant alarms, more intensive alarm reduction methods are needed to continue to reduce alarm fatigue while keeping patients safe.
Preparation and Characterization of Microsphere ZnO ALD Coating Dedicated for the Fiber-Optic Refractive Index Sensor
Authors: Listewnik Paulina , Hirsch Marzena , Struk Przemysław , Weber Matthieu , Bechelany Mikhael , Jędrzejewska-Szczerska Małgorzata
Published: February 2019

We report the fabrication of a novel fiber-optic sensor device, based on the use of a microsphere conformally coated with a thin layer of zinc oxide (ZnO) by atomic layer deposition (ALD), and its use as a refractive index sensor. The microsphere was prepared on the tip of a single-mode optical fiber, on which a conformal ZnO thin film of 200 nm was deposited using an ALD process based on diethyl zinc (DEZ) and water at 100 °C. The modified fiber-optic microsphere was examined using scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Theoretical modeling has been carried out to assess the structure performance, and the performed experimental measurements carried out confirmed the enhanced sensing abilities when the microsphere was coated with a ZnO layer. The fabricated refractive index sensor was operating in a reflective mode of a Fabry–Pérot configuration, using a low coherent measurement system. The application of the ALD ZnO coating enabled for a better measurement of the refractive index of samples in the range of the refractive index allowed by the optical fiber. The proof-of-concept results presented in this work open prospects for the sensing community and will promote the use of fiber-optic sensing technologies.
Enhanced and Tunable Electrorheological Capability using Surface Initiated Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization Modification with Simultaneous Reduction of the Graphene Oxide by Silyl-Based Polymer Grafting
Authors: Kutalkova Erika , Mrlik Miroslav , Ilcikova Marketa , Osicka Josef , Sedlacik Michal , Mosnacek Jaroslav
Published: February 2019

In this study, a verified process of the "grafting from" approach using surface initiated atom transfer radical polymerization was applied for the modification of a graphene oxide (GO) surface. This approach provides simultaneous grafting of poly(2-(trimethylsilyloxy)ethyl methacrylate) (PHEMATMS) chains and a controllable reduction of the GO surface. This allows the fine tuning of its electrical conductivity, which is a crucial parameter for applications of such hybrid composite particles in electrorheological (ER) suspensions. The successful coating was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The molecular characteristics of PHEMATMS were characterized by gel permeation chromatography. ER performance was elucidated using a rotational rheometer under various electric field strengths and a dielectric spectroscopy to demonstrate the direct impact of both the relaxation time and dielectric relaxation strength on the ER effectivity. Enhanced compatibility between the silicone oil and polymer-modified GO particles was investigated using contact angle measurements and visual sedimentation stability determination. It was clearly proven that the modification of the GO surface improved the ER capability of the system due to the tunable conductivity during the surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) process and the enhanced compatibility of the GO particles, modified by polymer containing silyl structures, with silicone oil. These unique ER properties of this system appear very promising for future applications in the design of ER suspensions.
Graphene Oxide/Ferrocene-Containing Polymer/Gold Nanoparticle Triple Nanocomposite
Authors: Qian Wenhao , Song Tao , Ye Mao , Zhang Haiyan , Feng Chun , Lu Guolin , Huang Xiaoyu
Published: February 2019

A facile strategy to prepare GO-based nanocomposites with both gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and ferrocene (Fc) moieties was developed. The surface of GO was modified with PFcMAss homopolymer by surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization of a new methacrylate monomer of 2-((2-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl)disulfanyl)ethyl ferrocene-carboxylate (FcMAss), consisting of disulfide as an anchoring group for stabilizing AuNPs and Fc group as an additional functionality. AuNPs with an average diameter of about 4.1 nm were formed in situ on the surface of PFcMAss-decorated GO (GO-PFcMAss) via Brust-Schiffrin method to give GO-PFcMAss-AuNPs multifunctional nanocomposites bearing GO, AuNPs and Fc groups. The obtained nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Since disulfide-containing polymers, rather than the commonly used thiol-containing compounds, were employed as ligands to stabilize AuNPs, much more stabilizing groups were attached onto the surface of GO, and thus more AuNPs were able to be introduced onto the surface of GO. Besides, polymeric chains on the surface of GO endowed GO-PFcMAss-AuNPs nanocomposites with excellent colloidal stability, and the usage of a disulfide group provides possibility to efficiently incorporate additional functionalities by easily modifying structure of disulfide-based monomer.
Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Weight and Body Composition in Healthy Non-Athlete Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Fernando Hamish A. , Zibellini Jessica , Harris Rebecca A. , Seimon Radhika V. , Sainsbury Amanda
Published: February 2019

Background: Ramadan involves one month of fasting from sunrise to sunset. In this meta-analysis, we aimed to determine the effect of Ramadan fasting on weight and body composition. Methods: In May 2018, we searched six databases for publications that measured weight and body composition before and after Ramadan, and that did not attempt to influence physical activity or diet. Results: Data were collected from 70 publications (90 comparison groups, 2947 participants). There was a significant positive correlation between starting body mass index and weight lost during the fasting period. Consistently, there was a significant reduction in fat percentage between pre-Ramadan and post-Ramadan in people with overweight or obesity (−1.46 (95% confidence interval: −2.57 to −0.35) %, p = 0.010), but not in those of normal weight (−0.41 (−1.45 to 0.63) %, p = 0.436). Loss of fat-free mass was also significant between pre-Ramadan and post-Ramadan, but was about 30% less than loss of absolute fat mass. At 2–5 weeks after the end of Ramadan, there was a return towards, or to, pre-Ramadan measurements in weight and body composition. Conclusions: Even with no advice on lifestyle changes, there are consistent—albeit transient—reductions in weight and fat mass with the Ramadan fast, especially in people with overweight or obesity.
Ergosterol Ameliorates Diabetic Nephropathy by Attenuating Mesangial Cell Proliferation and Extracellular Matrix Deposition via the TGF-β1/Smad2 Signaling Pathway
Authors: Dong Zhonghua , Sun Yueyue , Wei Guangwei , Li Siying , Zhao Zhongxi
Published: February 2019

(1) Background: Diabetic nephropathy, a microvascular complication of diabetes, is one of the principal causes of end-stage renal disease worldwide. The aim of this study was to explore the therapeutic effects of ergosterol on diabetic nephropathy. (2) Methods: Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced C57BL/6 diabetic mice were treated with ergosterol (10, 20, 40 mg/kg/day) for 8 weeks by oral gavage. The in vitro study employed rat mesangial cells exposed to 30 mM glucose for 48 h in the presence of 10 or 20 μM ergosterol. (3) Results: Ergosterol treatment improved body weights, ameliorated the majority of biochemical and renal functional parameters and histopathological changes, and reduced extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in diabetic mice. In vitro, ergosterol suppressed proliferation, reduced the levels of ECM proteins, and increased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in high glucose-induced mesangial cells; Furthermore, ergosterol markedly improved transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) expression, enhanced phosphorylation levels of drosophila mothers against decapentaplegic 2 (Smad2), and regulated the downstream factors in vivo and in vitro. (4) Conclusions: Ergosterol alleviated mesangial cell proliferation and the subsequent ECM deposition by regulating the TGF-β1/Smad2 signaling pathway.
Comparative Evaluation of the Immune Responses in Cattle Mammary Tissues Naturally Infected with Bovine Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 and Bovine Alphaherpesvirus-1
Authors: ÇOMAKLI Selim , ÖZDEMİR Selçuk
Published: February 2019

Bovine parainfluenza virus type 3 (BPIV-3) and Bovine alphaherpesvirus-1 (BoHV-1) lead to severe diseases in domesticated animals, such as Bovine, sheep, and goats. One of these diseases is mastitis, whose signs may not be observable in cases of viral infection due to the dominance of other clinical symptoms. This may lead to failure to predict viral agents in subclinical Bovine cases. Since viral infections have not been substantially investigated in mastitis studies, information about immune response to BPIV-3 and BoHV-1 infected Bovine mammary tissues may be inadequate. The present study aimed to determine the presence and prevalence of BPIV-3 and BoHV-1 agents in Bovine mammary tissues, and the immune response of such tissues against BPIV-3 and BoHV-1 infection. For this purpose, we first detected these viruses with qRT-PCR in mammary tissues. Then, we determined the expression profiles of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), CD4, and CD8 genes with qRT-PCR. Lastly, we performed immunohistochemistry staining to identify the presence of IFN-γ, CD4, and CD8 proteins in the mammary tissues. We found that 26, 16, and five of the 120 samples were BPI3-, BoHV1-, and BPIV-3 + BoHV-1 infected, respectively. Moreover, the gene expression levels of IFN-γ and CD4 were strongly up-regulated in the virus-infected tissues, whereas the CD8 gene expression level was only moderately up-regulated. Immunohistochemistry staining results were consistent with qRT-PCR results. Overall, our findings showed a high prevalence of BPIV-3 and BoHV-1 and indicated that cell-mediated immune response plays an important role against BPIV-3 and BoHV-1 infection in Bovine mammary tissues. Meanwhile, IFN-γ is an important cytokine for antiviral immunity against such infection.
Freeze-Dried Lopinavir-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Enhanced Cellular Uptake and Bioavailability: Statistical Optimization, in Vitro and in Vivo Evaluations
Authors: Khan Arshad Ali , Mudassir Jahanzeb , Akhtar Safia , Murugaiyah Vikneswaran , Darwis Yusrida
Published: February 2019

Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) loaded with lopinavir (LPV) were prepared by the high-shear homogenization method. The LPV-NLCs formulations were freeze-dried using trehalose as a cryoprotectant. In vitro release studies in simulated gastric fluid (pH 1.2) and simulated intestinal fluid (pH 6.8) showed a burst release. The optimized freeze-dried formulation (LPV-NLC-7-Tres) had a particle size (PS), polydispersity index (PdI), zeta potential (ZP) and % entrapment efficiency (%EE) of 286.8 ± 1.3 nm, 0.413 ± 0.017, −48.6 ± 0.89 mV and 88.31 ± 2.04%, respectively. The optimized formulation observed by transmission and scanning electron microscopes showed a spherical shape. Differential scanning calorimetry study revealed the absence of chemical interaction between the drug and lipids. In vitro cellular uptake study using Caco-2 cell line showed a higher LPV uptake from LPV-NLC-7-Tres formulation compared to the free LPV-suspension. The 6-month stability study showed a minimum rise of ~40 nm in PS, while no significant changes in PdI, ZP and drug content of the LPV-NLC-7-Tres formulation stored at 5 °C ± 3 °C. The bioavailability of LPV following oral administration of LPV-NLC-7-Tres in male Wistar rats was found 6.98-fold higher than the LPV-suspension. In conclusion, the nanostructure lipid carriers are potential carriers for improving the oral bioavailability of lopinavir.
Exposure to Ultraviolet (UV-C) Radiation Increases Germination Rate of Maize (Zea maize L.) and Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris) Seeds
Authors: Sadeghianfar Pouria , Nazari Meisam , Backes Gunter
Published: February 2019

This study investigated the effect of ultraviolet (UV-C) radiation on the germination percentage, germination rate, radicle length, and plumule length of maize and sugar beet seeds. The experiment was implemented in six replicates of 30 seeds per replicate and in sterilized petri dishes under laboratory conditions. Treatments included UV-C (254 nm) radiation exposure durations of 0 min (control), 30 min, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, and 12 h. The UV-C radiation treatments did not significantly affect the germination percentage of the seeds (p < 0.05). However, the seeds germination rate was significantly affected by the UV-C radiation treatments. The treatments of 8 h and 12 h exposure duration led to the highest seed germination rates in maize and sugar beet, respectively. Lowest seed germination rates belonged to the controls. The radicle length of maize seeds was significantly affected by the UV-C radiation treatments, but the treatments did not significantly affect the radicle length of sugar beet seeds. The 12 h exposure to UV-C radiation treatment resulted in the largest radicle in maize, which was 2.08 cm larger than the radicle of the control seeds. The UV-C radiation treatments had a statistically significant effect on the plumule length of maize and sugar beet seeds. The treatment 8 h UV-C exposure duration led to the largest plumule in maize and sugar beet, which were 0.32 cm and 0.83 cm larger than the plumule of the control seeds, respectively. Breaking down the seed coat and increasing the temperature by UV-C radiation are potential reasons for the observed positive effects.
Secrets and Lies: Adolescent Religiosity and Concealing Information from Parents
Authors: Desmond Scott A.
Published: February 2019

There is very little research on the relationship between adolescent religiosity and concealing information from parents, although research on religiosity and family life is plentiful. Therefore, I used the second wave of the National Study of Youth and Religion to examine the relationship between adolescent religiosity and lying to parents and keeping secrets from parents. The results suggest that adolescents who attend religious services more often are less likely to keep secrets from parents, whereas adolescents who believe that religion is important are both less likely to lie to parents and keep secrets from parents. Being spiritual, but not religious, is not related to lying to parents or keeping secrets from parents. Results also suggest that primarily alcohol use, substance using peers, and morality mediate the effect of adolescent religiosity on lying to parents and keeping secrets from parents. Adolescents who attend religious services often and believe that religion is important are less likely to use alcohol, less likely to have friends that use substances, and are more likely to believe that moral rules should not be broken, which helps to explain why they are less likely to lie to parents and keep secrets from parents.
“Paltrie Vermin, Cats, Mise, Toads, and Weasils”: Witches, Familiars, and Human-Animal Interactions in the English Witch Trials
Authors: Parish Helen
Published: February 2019

This article explores the role played by the relationship between witch and familiar in the early modern witch trials. It positions animal familiars at the intersection of early modern belief in witchcraft and magic, examining demonologies, legal and trial records, and print pamphlets. Read together, these sources present a compelling account of human-animal interactions during the period of the witch trials, and shed light upon the complex beliefs that created the environment in which the image of the witch and her familiar took root. The animal familiar is positioned and discussed at the intersection of writing in history, anthropology, folklore, gender, engaging with the challenge articulated in this special issue to move away from mono-causal theories and explore connections between witchcraft, magic, and religion.
Spatiotemporal Features and Socioeconomic Drivers of PM2.5 Concentrations in China
Authors: Li Deshan , Zhao Yanfen , Wu Rongwei , Dong Jiefang
Published: February 2019

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has been an important environmental issue because it can seriously harm human health and can adversely affect the economy. It poses a problem worldwide and especially in China. Based on data of PM2.5 concentration and night light data, both collected from satellite remote sensing during 1998–2013 in China, we identify the socio-economic determinants of PM2.5 pollution by taking into account the spatial flow and diffusion of regional pollutants. Our results show PM2.5 pollution displays the remarkable feature of spatial agglomeration. High concentrations of PM2.5 are mainly found in Eastern China (including Shandong, Jiangsu, and Anhui provinces) and the Jing-Jin-Ji Area region in the north of China (including Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei provinces) as well as in the Henan provinces in central China. There is a significant positive spatial spillover effect of PM2.5 pollution, so that an increase in PM2.5 concentration in one region contributes to an increase in neighboring regions. Whether using per capita GDP or nighttime lighting indicators, there is a significant N-shaped curve that relates PM2.5 concentration and economic growth. Population density, industrial structure, and energy consumption have distinct impacts on PM2.5 pollution, while urbanization is negative correlated with PM2.5 emissions. As a result, policies to strengthen regional joint prevention and control, implement cleaner manufacturing techniques, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels should be considered by policy makers for mitigating PM2.5 pollution.
UNESCO’s Contribution to Face Global Water Challenges
Authors: Makarigakis Alexandros K. , Jimenez-Cisneros Blanca Elena
Published: February 2019

The current world population of 7.6 billion is expected to reach 8.6 billion in 2030, 9.8 billion in 2050 and 11.2 billion in 210, with roughly 83 million people being added every year. The upward trend in population size along with an improved quality of life are expected to continue, and with them the demand for water. Available water for human consumption and development remains virtually the same. Additional to the different pressures of the demand side on the available resources (offer side), climate variability and change apply further pressures to the management of the resource. Additional to the increase in evaporation due to temperature rise, climate change is responsible for more frequent and intense water related extreme events, such as floods and droughts. Anthropogenic activities often result in the contamination of the few pristine water resources and exacerbate the effects of climate change. Furthermore, they are responsible for altering the state of the environment and minimizing the ecosystem services provided. Thus, the water security of countries is compromised posing harder challenges to poor countries to address it. This compromise is taking place in a complex context of scarce and shared resources. Across the world, 153 countries share rivers, lakes and aquifers, home to 40% of the world’s current population. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is the scientific arm of the United Nations and its International Hydrological Programme (IHP) is the main vehicle for work in water sciences at an intergovernmental level. IHP VIII, IHP’s medium term strategy, aims to assist UNESCO’s Member States (MS) in achieving water security by mobilizing international cooperation to improve knowledge and innovation, strengthening the science-policy interface, and facilitating education and capacity development in order to enhance water resource management and governance. Furthermore, the organization has established an Urban Water Management Programme (UWMP) aiming at promoting sustainable water resource management in urban areas.
Optimizing the Water Treatment Design and Management of the Artificial Lake with Water Quality Modeling and Surrogate-Based Approach
Authors: Liu Chuankun , Hu Yue , Yu Ting , Xu Qiang , Liu Chaoqing , Li Xi , Shen Chao
Published: February 2019

The tradeoff between engineering costs and water treatment of the artificial lake system has a significant effect on engineering decision-making. However, decision-makers have little access to scientific tools to balance engineering costs against corresponding water treatment. In this study, a framework integrating numerical modeling, surrogate models and multi-objective optimization is proposed. This framework was applied to a practical case in Chengdu, China. A water quality model (MIKE21) was developed, providing training datasets for surrogate modeling. The Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) were utilized for training surrogate models. Both surrogate models were validated with the coefficient of determinations (R2) greater than 0.98. SVM performed more stably with limited training data sizes while ANN demonstrated higher accuracies with more training samples. The multi-objective optimization model was developed using the genetic algorithm, with targets of reducing both engineering costs and target aquatic pollutant concentrations. An optimal target concentration after treatment was identified, characterized by the ammonia concentration (1.3 mg/L) in the artificial lake. Furthermore, scenarios with varying water quality in the upstream river were evaluated. Given the assumption of deteriorated upstream water quality in the future, the optimal proportion of pre-treatment in the total costs is increasing.
What Discharge Is Required to Remove Silt and Sand Downstream from a Dam? An Adaptive Approach on the Selves River, France
Authors: Loire Rémi , Grosprêtre Loïc , Malavoi Jean-René , Ortiz Olivier , Piégay Hervé
Published: February 2019

An increasing number of scientific studies are tackling the management of discharges downstream of dams for environmental objectives. Such management is generally complex, and experiments are required for proper implementation. This article present the main lessons from a silt sand removal experiment on a bypassed reach of a dam on the Selves River (164 km²), France. Three four-hour operational tests at maximum discharge (10, 15, and 20 m3/s) were carried out in September 2016 to determine the discharge required for transporting as much silt and sand as possible without remobilizing coarser sediments. In September 2017, an additional flow release was performed over 34 h at 15 m3/s. Suspended sediment concentration and water level were recorded throughout the releases. Monitoring at the reach scale was supplemented by morphological measurements. The results demonstrate that a discharge of approximately 10 m3/s enables significant transport of suspended sediments (SS), whereas a discharge of 15 m3/s enables significant sand transport. The results provide operational information on silt and sand transport applicable to other small rivers. This study represents an important contribution to the relatively sparse existing body of literature regarding the effects of water releases and sediment state. Our study also demonstrates that it is possible to successfully undertake water releases in small rivers with an adaptive management approach.