bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ag/CeO2 Composites for Catalytic Abatement of CO, Soot and VOCs
Authors: Grabchenko M. , Mikheeva N. , Mamontov G. , Salaev M. , Liotta L. , Vodyankina O.
Published: July 2018

Nowadays catalytic technologies are widely used to purify indoor and outdoor air from harmful compounds. Recently, Ag–CeO2 composites have found various applications in catalysis due to distinctive physical-chemical properties and relatively low costs as compared to those based on other noble metals. Currently, metal–support interaction is considered the key factor that determines high catalytic performance of silver–ceria composites. Despite thorough investigations, several questions remain debating. Among such issues, there are (1) morphology and size effects of both Ag and CeO2 particles, including their defective structure, (2) chemical and charge state of silver, (3) charge transfer between silver and ceria, (4) role of oxygen vacancies, (5) reducibility of support and the catalyst on the basis thereof. In this review, we consider recent advances and trends on the role of silver–ceria interactions in catalytic performance of Ag/CeO2 composites in low-temperature CO oxidation, soot oxidation, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) abatement. Promising photo- and electrocatalytic applications of Ag/CeO2 composites are also discussed.
Cell Signaling in Neuronal Stem Cells
Authors: Navarro Quiroz Elkin , Navarro Quiroz Roberto , Ahmad Mostapha , Gomez Escorcia Lorena , Villarreal Jose Luis , Fernandez Ponce Cecilia , Aroca Martinez Gustavo
Published: July 2018

The defining characteristic of neural stem cells (NSCs) is their ability to multiply through symmetric divisions and proliferation, and differentiation by asymmetric divisions, thus giving rise to different types of cells of the central nervous system (CNS). A strict temporal space control of the NSC differentiation is necessary, because its alterations are associated with neurological dysfunctions and, in some cases, death. This work reviews the current state of the molecular mechanisms that regulate the transcription in NSCs, organized according to whether the origin of the stimulus that triggers the molecular cascade in the CNS is internal (intrinsic factors) or whether it is the result of the microenvironment that surrounds the CNS (extrinsic factors).
Smeared Lattice Model as a Framework for Order to Disorder Transitions in 2D Systems
Authors: Cherkas Nadezhda L. , Cherkas Sergey L.
Published: July 2018

Order to disorder transitions are important for two-dimensional (2D) objects such as oxide films with cellular porous structure, honeycomb, graphene, Bénard cells in liquid, and artificial systems consisting of colloid particles on a plane. For instance, solid films of porous alumina represent almost regular crystalline structure. We show that in this case, the radial distribution function is well described by the smeared hexagonal lattice of the two-dimensional ideal crystal by inserting some amount of defects into the lattice.Another example is a system of hard disks in a plane, which illustrates order to disorder transitions. It is shown that the coincidence with the distribution function obtained by the solution of the Percus–Yevick equation is achieved by the smoothing of the square lattice and injecting the defects of the vacancy type into it. However, better approximation is reached when the lattice is a result of a mixture of the smoothed square and hexagonal lattices. Impurity of the hexagonal lattice is considerable at short distances. Dependencies of the lattice constants, smoothing widths, and contributions of the different type of the lattices on the filling parameter are found. The transition to order looks to be an increase of the hexagonal lattice fraction in the superposition of hexagonal and square lattices and a decrease of their smearing.
Flexible PI-Based Plant Drought Stress Sensor for Real-Time Monitoring System in Smart Farm
Authors: Im Healin , Lee Sungho , Naqi Muhammad , Lee Chanhui , Kim Sunkook
Published: July 2018

Plant growth and development are negatively affected by a wide range of external stresses, including water deficits. Especially, plants generally reduce the stomatal aperture to decrease transpiration levels upon drought stress. Advanced technologies, such as wireless communications, the Internet of things (IoT), and smart sensors have been applied to practical smart farming and indoor planting systems to monitor plants’ signals effectively. In this study, we develop a flexible polyimide (PI)-based sensor for real-time monitoring of water conditions in tobacco plants. The stoma response, by which a plant adjusts to drought stress to maintain homeostasis, can be confirmed through the examination of evaporated water. Using a flexible PI-based sensor, a plant’s response variation is translated into an electrical signal. The sensors are integrated with a Bluetooth (BLE) module and a processing module and show potential as smart real-time water sensors in smart farms.
Adaptive Hydraulic Potential Energy Transfer Technology and Its Application to Compressed Air Energy Storage
Authors: Fu Hao , Jiang Tong , Cui Yan , Li Bin
Published: July 2018

In recent years, Hydro-pneumatic cycling compressed air energy storage (HC-CAES) has become an important topic in compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology research. In HC-CAES, air is compressed by liquid and driven by electrical equipment when energy is stored, and then, liquid is used to drive the water conservancy equipment to generate electricity. In this study, adaptive hydraulic potential energy transfer technology is proposed to solve a series of problems in the HC-CAES system, including the high fluctuation range of gas potential energy, poor operating stability, low efficiency, and so on. Therefore, fluctuating potential energy can be stably transferred through the variable area hydraulic devices, which can be controlled with an on–off valve. The structure and operation scheme of the adaptive hydraulic potential energy transfer device used in the HC-CAES system are explained in detail; the device can provide a stable water head range for the highly efficient operation of water conservancy equipment. Moreover, an optimal operation scheme was determined through simulation analysis; a physical experiment platform was built to verify the feasibility of the design and stability of system operation.
A Simple Model for Explaining Galaxy Rotation Curves
Authors: Wojnar Aneta , Sporea Ciprian A. , Borowiec Andrzej
Published: July 2018

A new simple expression for the circular velocity of spiral galaxies is proposed and tested against HI Nearby Galaxy Survey (THINGS) data set. Its accuracy is compared with the one coming from MOND.
The Impact of Brexit on Financial Markets—Taking Stock
Authors: Hohlmeier Michaela , Fahrholz Christian
Published: July 2018

The UK’s withdrawal from the EU will have far-reaching consequences on the European economy. However, the ultimate consequences of Brexit, especially for financial markets, depend on the final agreement, which is still under negotiation. Currently, regulated financial services can be provided across borders under simplified conditions. Without a special agreement, these EU passports cease to apply for business activities between both jurisdictions after Brexit. The EU third-country regimes for non-EEA companies are too few and too unsecure for intensive relations in trade and services. Knowing that London is the leading global financial center, an adequate agreement needs to be found, to ensure affordable and sufficient financial services for business, investors, and consumers. Unfortunately, it appears almost impossible to find solutions for the often contrary interests and various thematic areas in the remaining negotiating period—a no deal scenario becomes more likely. As a result, market participants have started to adapt structures and processes accordingly, by relocating certain functions to the EU27. Nevertheless, it is up to the negotiators to reach an agreement, which achieves the best possible outcome for all affected parties taking into account the opportunity costs of a failure in present Brexit negotiations.
Septic Pulmonary Emboli or Pulmonary Metastasis in a Patient with Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Wu Meng-Yu , Lee Ling-Chi , Chen Yu-Long , Yeh Yung-Hsiang , Li Chia-Jung , Yiang Giou-Teng
Published: July 2018

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a rare but life-threatening infection characterized by an accumulation of gas in the renal parenchyma. A high mortality rate was reported, and timely administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics for enteric gram-negative bacilli, such as Escherichia coli, Enterobacter, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, was recommended for improving the clinical outcome. Computed tomography is a useful tool for identifying gas accumulation within the perirenal space. Abdominal ultrasound and abdominal plain film are alternative options with lower accuracy rates. Here, we present the case of a 49-year-old male patient who presented with acute-onset progressive abdominal cramping pain and dysuria. Diffuse bilateral opacities over the lung field and a heterogeneous mass with air density in the abdomen were found on radiological examination. Multiple septic pulmonary emboli and emphysematous pyelonephritis were diagnosed using computed tomography. After emergency percutaneous nephrostomy and administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, the patient was discharged in a stable condition and followed up at the outpatient department. This report also describes the clinical and imaging features of emphysematous pyelonephritis and highlights that early diagnosis and timely administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics may help avoid a potentially devastating outcome.
The Rights Network: 100 Years of the Hohfeldian Rights Analytic
Authors: Clayton Thompson Jack
Published: July 2018

This paper sets out to reconsider the Hohfeldian framework of rights in celebration of the centenary anniversary of their original publication. It begins by conceptualizing each of the Hohfeldian incidents or rights before outlining the molecular or complex structure of rights to “things”. I adopt a broad use of the term of “right” and apply it to Legal, Moral, Equitable and Human conceptions and constructions. It sets out an argument in favor of a further definitional model—in addition to Hohfeld’s scheme of opposites and correlatives—which focuses on the function of these conceptual rights. Finally, it sets out to provide a model of rights as forming a network within a given community and the exponential growth of “rights-connections” within an expanding community. This is used to frame responses to common criticisms of “rights talk” and the balance of benefits and burdens on account of such a rights network. Ultimately, this paper seeks to demonstrate the benefit, and indeed necessity, of the Hohfeldian model in any discussion of rights. Without it “rights talk” is debased and impoverished.
Changes in anthropometric and metabolic parameters in pregnancy and neonatal physical development during last decades
Authors: Drąsutienė Gražina , Tutkuvienė Janina , Zakarevičienė Jolita , Ramašauskaitė Diana , Kasilovskienė Žaneta , Laužikienė Dalia , Drazdienė Nijolė , Barkus Arūnas , Arlauskienė Audronė , Drąsutis Jonas
Published: July 2018

Objective. To evaluate changes in anthropometric and biochemical parameters in pregnancy and their dynamics during last two decades and to determine the association between anthropometric and biochemical parameters, their influence on fetal and neonatal development. Material and methods. In 1985–2005, anthropometric (height, body mass, weight gain during pregnancy, pelvic measurements, skinfold thicknesses, passive body mass) and biochemical (cholesterol, triglyceride, protein, and iron levels) parameters, their correlation, changes in pregnancy were examined; also the correlations between these parameters and neonatal body mass indices were evaluated. In 1986–1987, 383 pregnant women were examined, in 1998 – 130, and in 2003–2005 – 133. Results. During 20 years, the height of examined women increased on an average of 2.5 cm; they became thinner; body mass index decreased. The body composition became similar to “cylinder” shape due to decreased thickness of adipose tissue in the limbs. The dimensions of bony pelvis – external conjugate and bicristal diameters – decreased. Primiparous women became older (1995 – 22.5 years of age, 2004 – 27.6). At the beginning of investigation, the weight gain was on an average of 21.9% of body mass before pregnancy (13.3 kg) and at the end – 23.9% (14.2 kg). The values of anthropometric parameters vary in a consistent pattern during pregnancy: the lower body mass and body mass index at the beginning of pregnancy, the higher weight gain at the end of pregnancy. Blood serum levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and especially iron were decreased during the study. Conclusions. An inverse correlation between body mass index and lipid metabolism in pregnancy was revealed: the higher body mass index was at the beginning of pregnancy, the lower increase in lipid concentration was during pregnancy. At the beginning of investigation as well as after 20 years, women with low body mass index showed the most significant anthropometric and lipid metabolic changes in pregnancy.
Immunostimulatory properties of bigroot geranium (Geranium macrorrhizum L.) extract
Authors: Jurkštienė Vilma , Kondrotas Anatolijus , Kėvelaitis Egidijus
Published: July 2018

The aim of the study was to investigate the immunostimulatory properties of bigroot geranium. Material and methods. Possible nonspecific characteristics of bigroot geranium were evaluated by the total leukocyte count in the peripheral blood, and qualitative changes of blood were assessed using Shilling’s formula by evaluating changes in lymphocyte counts. In addition, we also studied changes in the counts of Tcell precursors in the thymus and B lymphocytes in the spleen. Ethanol extract of the leaves of bigroot geranium was produced at the Department of Food Technology, Kaunas University of Technology. Studies were performed on mice Bl 57 (n=21). The control group (n=7) received distilled water at a dose of 1 mL/day. The second and third groups received 1% and 10% extract of bigroot geranium, respectively, as a food supplement. Changes in cell counts were investigated after 4 weeks following the initiation of the trial. Results. After a 4-week administration of 1% extract of bigroot geranium (1 mL/day) (mice group, n=7), leukocyte count in the peripheral blood increased to 6.1×109 cells/L, and lymphocyte count – to 70%, but changes were not statistically significant. The other case group of mice (n=7) received 10% extract of bigroot geranium for 4 weeks at a dose of 1 mL/day. In this group, leukocyte count in the peripheral blood increased statistically significantly from 4.4×109 cells/L to 7.2×109 cells/L (p<0.01), and lymphocyte percentage – from 52% to 80% (p<0.001), as compared to control. Thymocyte (T lymphocytes) counts in thymus and splenocyte (B lymphocytes) counts in the spleen showed a tendency to increase after the administration of 1% and 10% extracts. After a 4-week administration of 1% extract of bigroot geranium, thymocyte and splenocyte counts increased from 0.342×106 cells to 0.372×106 cells per mg of tissue and from 0.395×106 cells to 0.405×106 cells per mg of tissue, respectively, as compared to control group (p>0.1). After the administration of 10% extract of bigroot geranium, thymocyte count increased to 0.488×106 cells per mg of tissue (p<0.01), and splenocyte count – to 0.504×106 cells per mg of tissue (p<0.01). Conclusion. The extracts of the leaves of bigroot geranium increased leukocyte count and lymphocyte percentage in the peripheral blood, and after a 4-week administration of 10% extract of bigroot geranium, a statistically significant increase in the counts of T lymphocytes (in the thymus) and B lymphocytes (in the spleen) was observed. The immunostimulatory effect depends on the dose of the extract.
New guidelines for resuscitation in adults
Authors: Vaitkaitis Dinas , Pilvinis Vidas , Pranskūnas Andrius , Jasinskas Nedas , Dobožinskas Paulius
Published: July 2018

Five years after the last issue of the guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care, in 2005 American Heart Association and European Resuscitation Council published new guidelines. In this review, basic life support (BLS) technique, indications for use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), recognition of sudden cardiac arrest, and management of choking (foreign-body airway obstruction) are presented according to the “Resuscitation Guidelines 2005.”
Issues of the practical value of ethics in healthcare
Authors: Liubarskienė Zita
Published: July 2018

In November 2006, the “Journal of Medical Ethics” published an article where prominent medical specialists stated that medical ethics, as a teaching and a theory, has no practical value. The article was based on the physicians’ clinical experience and view that the theory of ethics has little in common with its application in daily practice and provides generalized guidelines for behavior, but is ineffective in decisionmaking in individual cases. At the same time, when describing conflict situations in healthcare, Lithuanian public press raises the role of ethics to the absolute and states that the lack or violation of ethics is the sole cause of all problems in healthcare, and there would be no problems if physicians behaved morally. From the viewpoint of an ethics professional, both controversial opinions deserve attention, and this paper is devoted to the analysis of these opinions. Ethical collisions and conflicts emerging in providing healthcare are not signs of the helplessness of medical ethics. Both viewpoints – the one disclaiming the role of medical ethics and the one attributing the absolute role to medical ethics – are equally erroneous. Decisions of the society and physicians are aggravated by health policy and the organization of healthcare in the country, as well as by a concrete individual’s level of ethical thinking, worldview, and knowledge. Sometimes ethical collisions arise when there is a conflict among ethical principles themselves, and healthcare specialists have to decide which principle should be given priority. There are cases where setting priorities is impossible, and one has to admit that one single specialist is unable to solve the problem without his/her colleagues’ assistance. Collective and collegial professionals’ work helps to solve such ethical collisions.
Evaluation of sensorimotor reactions during early rehabilitation for patients after cerebral stroke
Authors: Petruševičienė Daiva , Savickas Raimondas , Kriščiūnas Aleksandras
Published: July 2018

Early inpatient rehabilitation is extremely important in functional improvement of patients suffering from cerebral stroke. From our point of view, in rehabilitation of patients after cerebral stroke, the estimation of sensorimotor reactions that enables the evaluation of sensorimotor functional changes is highly relevant. The article describes the comparison of sensorimotor reactions in two subgroups – stroke patients and healthy individuals – by applying Sensoneck system. The evaluation was performed before early stage of rehabilitation and thereafter (following early rehabilitation). In order to estimate the correlation between changes in functional independence and sensorimotor reactions, Functional Independence Measure was used. The study revealed that stroke patients had sensorimotor dysfunctions. During early rehabilitation, the quality of motion performance improved slightly, and sensorimotor reactions improved statistically significantly (P<0.05). The relationship between Functional Independence Measure and Sensoneck scores was not significant (P>0.05).
Cigarette smoking and waiting time to pregnancy: results of a pilot study
Authors: Žilaitienė Birutė , Diržauskas Marius , Preikša Romualdas , Matulevičius Valentinas
Published: July 2018

Waiting time to pregnancy is an important characteristic of human reproductive health, which has not been investigated in Lithuania until now. Data on waiting time to pregnancy have been collected from medical records of 111 women admitted to the Department of Obstetrics, Klaipėda Hospital. Seven women in whom pregnancy was the result of infertility treatment were excluded from the analysis, and the rest 104 cases were analyzed. We evaluated waiting time to pregnancy in respect to the age of couples, contraceptive use, cigarette smoking of both partners, and some other features of obstetric history. The mean waiting time to pregnancy in the cohort was 5.21±7.03 months. If both partners smoked, the mean waiting time to pregnancy was significantly longer than in nonsmoking couples (7.68±9.41 vs. 4.30±5.73, P<0.05). Risk to have waiting time to pregnancy longer than 6 months was significantly higher if both partners smoked as compared to nonsmoking couples (OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.07–10.30, P=0.03), while paternal smoking and smoking of any partner did not increase this risk significantly. The other possible factors – age, living place (rural or city), previous contraceptive use, regularity of menstrual cycle, and frequency of intercourse – did not influence waiting time to pregnancy significantly. Results obtained from this pilot study enable us to plan and implement a larger-scale study of waiting time to pregnancy in Lithuanian population.
Electrochemical Behavior of Biodegradable FeMnSi–MgCa Alloy
Authors: Cimpoeşu Nicanor , Săndulache Florin , Istrate Bogdan , Cimpoeşu Ramona , Zegan Georgeta
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, alongside metallic biomaterials, there is increasing interest in using degradable metals in an appreciable number of medical applications. There are new kinds of metallic biomaterials for medical applications and many new findings have been reported over the past few years. Iron-based materials are a solution for biodegradable applications based on their mechanical and chemical properties. In order to control the corrosion rate of the Fe10Mn6Si alloy, we proposed the use of two additional elements, Ca and Mg, as corrosion promoters. The new material was obtained in an air-controlled atmosphere furnace after five melting operations. The material was in vitro analyzed from a corrosion resistance point of view. The experiments were realized by immersion (7, 14, and 30 days) in simulated body fluid (SBF) solution at 37 °C and a constant pH, and by electrochemical tests (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear polarization (LP), cyclic polarization (CP)). Material surfaces before and after corrosion tests were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. A discussion on the degradation rate of the material was realized from a comparison of the results. The results presented good composition homogeneity after the re-melting stages, with low percentages of Ca and Mg in the material, but with an adequate spread in the alloy.
Microstructural, Mechanical and Corrosion Investigations of Ship Steel-Aluminum Bimetal Composites Produced by Explosive Welding
Authors: Kaya Yakup
Published: July 2018

In this study, explosive welding was used in the cladding of aluminum plates to ship steel plates at different explosive ratios. Ship steel-aluminum bimetal composite plates were manufactured and the influence of the explosive ratio on the cladded bonding interface was examined. Optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) studies were employed for the characterization of the bonding interface of the manufactured ship steel-aluminum bimetal composites. Tensile-shear, notch impact toughness, bending and twisting tests, and microhardness studies were implemented to determine the mechanical features of the bimetal composite materials. In addition, neutral salt spray (NSS) tests were performed in order to examine the corrosion behavior of the bimetal composites.
Progress in Circulating Tumor Cell Research Using Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Gwak Hogyeong , Kim Junmoo , Kashefi-Kheyrabadi Leila , Kwak Bongseop , Hyun Kyung-A , Jung Hyo-Il
Published: July 2018

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are a popular topic in cancer research because they can be obtained by liquid biopsy, a minimally invasive procedure with more sample accessibility than tissue biopsy, to monitor a patient’s condition. Over the past decades, CTC research has covered a wide variety of topics such as enumeration, profiling, and correlation between CTC number and patient overall survival. It is important to isolate and enrich CTCs before performing CTC analysis because CTCs in the blood stream are very rare (0–10 CTCs/mL of blood). Among the various approaches to separating CTCs, here, we review the research trends in the isolation and analysis of CTCs using microfluidics. Microfluidics provides many attractive advantages for CTC studies such as continuous sample processing to reduce target cell loss and easy integration of various functions into a chip, making “do-everything-on-a-chip” possible. However, tumor cells obtained from different sites within a tumor exhibit heterogenetic features. Thus, heterogeneous CTC profiling should be conducted at a single-cell level after isolation to guide the optimal therapeutic path. We describe the studies on single-CTC analysis based on microfluidic devices. Additionally, as a critical concern in CTC studies, we explain the use of CTCs in cancer research, despite their rarity and heterogeneity, compared with other currently emerging circulating biomarkers, including exosomes and cell-free DNA (cfDNA). Finally, the commercialization of products for CTC separation and analysis is discussed.
Novel Polyketides Produced by the Endophytic Fungus Aspergillus Fumigatus from Cordyceps Sinensis
Authors: Guo Da-Le , Li Xiao-Hua , Feng Dan , Jin Meng-Ying , Cao Yu-Mei , Cao Zhi-Xing , Gu Yu-Cheng , Geng Zhao , Deng Fang , Deng Yun
Published: July 2018

Five new polyketides, including two pairs of enantiomers and a racemate, were isolated from the fermentation broth of Aspergillus fumigatus, an endophytic fungus isolated from Cordyceps sinensis. Their structures were identified using one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) NMR experiments, and the absolute configurations of the enantiomers were confirmed using electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations. Compounds 1a and 2a exhibited inhibitory activity against the MV4-11 cell line in vitro, with IC50 values of 23.95 µM and 32.70 µM, respectively.
Effects of Linalyl Acetate on Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Production in Mast Cells
Authors: Moon Phil-Dong , Han Na-Ra , Lee Jin Soo , Kim Hyung-Min , Jeong Hyun-Ja
Published: July 2018

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an important factor responsible for the pathogenesis of allergic diseases, such as atopic dermatitis and asthma. Because linalyl acetate (LA) possesses a wide range of pharmacological properties, being antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperpigmentation, we hypothesized that LA could inhibit TSLP. Therefore, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, caspase-1 assay, Western blot analysis, fluorescent analyses of the intracellular calcium levels, and the phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-induced edema model were used to investigate how LA inhibits the production of TSLP in HMC-1 cells. LA reduced the production and mRNA expression of TSLP in HMC-1 cells. LA also inhibited the activation of nuclear factor-κB and degradation of IκBα. PMA plus A23187 stimulation up-regulated caspase-1 activity in HMC-1 cells; however, this up-regulated caspase-1 activity was down-regulated by LA. Finally, LA decreased intracellular calcium levels in HMC-1 cells as well as PMA-induced ear swelling responses in mice. Taken together, these results suggest that LA would be beneficial to treatment of atopic and inflammatory diseases by reducing TSLP.
Essential Oils as Feed Additives—Future Perspectives
Authors: Stevanović Zora Dajić , Bošnjak-Neumüller Jasna , Pajić-Lijaković Ivana , Raj Jog , Vasiljević Marko
Published: July 2018

The inconsistency of phytogenic feed additives’ (PFA) effects on the livestock industry poses a risk for their use as a replacement for antibiotic growth promoters. The livestock market is being encouraged to use natural growth promotors, but information is limited about the PFA mode of action. The aim of this paper is to present the complexity of compounds present in essential oils (EOs) and factors that influence biological effects of PFA. In this paper, we highlight various controls and optimization parameters that influence the processes for the standardization of these products. The chemical composition of EOs depends on plant genetics, growth conditions, development stage at harvest, and processes of extracting active compounds. Their biological effects are further influenced by the interaction of phytochemicals and their bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract of animals. PFA effects on animal health and production are also complex due to various EO antibiotic, antioxidant, anti-quorum sensing, anti-inflammatory, and digestive fluids stimulating activities. Research must focus on reliable methods to identify and control the quality and effects of EOs. In this study, we focused on available microencapsulation techniques of EOs to increase the bioavailability of active compounds, as well as their application in the animal feed additive industry.
Asymmetric Primaquine and Halogenaniline Fumardiamides as Novel Biologically Active Michael Acceptors
Authors: Rajić Zrinka , Beus Maja , Michnová Hana , Vlainić Josipa , Persoons Leentje , Kosalec Ivan , Jampílek Josef , Schols Dominique , Keser Toma , Zorc Branka
Published: July 2018

Novel primaquine (PQ) and halogenaniline asymmetric fumardiamides 4a–f, potential Michael acceptors, and their reduced analogues succindiamides 5a–f were prepared by simple three-step reactions: coupling reaction between PQ and mono-ethyl fumarate (1a) or mono-methyl succinate (1b), hydrolysis of PQ-dicarboxylic acid mono-ester conjugates 2a,b to corresponding acids 3a,b, and a coupling reaction with halogenanilines. 1-[bis(Dimethylamino)methylene]-1H-1,2,3-triazolo[4,5-b]pyridinium 3-oxide hexafluorophosphate (HATU) was used as a coupling reagent along with Hünig′s base. Compounds 4 and 5 were evaluated against a panel of bacteria, several Mycobacterium strains, fungi, a set of viruses, and nine different human tumor cell lines. p-Chlorofumardiamide 4d showed significant activity against Staphylococcus aureus,Streptococcus pneumoniae and Acinetobacter baumannii, but also against Candida albicans (minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) 6.1–12.5 µg/mL). Together with p-fluoro and p-CF3 fumardiamides 4b,f, compound 4d showed activity against Mycobacterium marinum and 4b,f against M. tuberculosis. In biofilm eradication assay, most of the bacteria, particularly S. aureus, showed susceptibility to fumardiamides. m-CF3 and m-chloroaniline fumardiamides 4e and 4c showed significant antiviral activity against reovirus-1, sindbis virus and Punta Toro virus (EC50 = 3.1–5.5 µM), while 4e was active against coxsackie virus B4 (EC50 = 3.1 µM). m-Fluoro derivative 4a exerted significant cytostatic activity (IC50 = 5.7–31.2 μM). Acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells were highly susceptible towards m-substituted derivatives 4a,c,e (IC50 = 6.7–8.9 μM). Biological evaluations revealed that fumardiamides 4 were more active than succindiamides 5 indicating importance of Michael conjugated system.
The Cartesian Product and Join Graphs on Edge-Version Atom-Bond Connectivity and Geometric Arithmetic Indices
Authors: Zhang Xiujun , Jiang Huiqin , Liu Jia-Bao , Shao Zehui
Published: July 2018

The Cartesian product and join are two classical operations in graphs. Let dL(G)(e) be the degree of a vertex e in line graph L(G) of a graph G. The edge versions of atom-bond connectivity (ABCe) and geometric arithmetic (GAe) indices of G are defined as ∑ef∈E(L(G))dL(G)(e)+dL(G)(f)−2dL(G)(e)×dL(G)(f) and ∑ef∈E(L(G))2dL(G)(e)×dL(G)(f)dL(G)(e)+dL(G)(f), respectively. In this paper, ABCe and GAe indices for certain Cartesian product graphs (such as Pn□Pm, Pn□Cm and Pn□Sm) are obtained. In addition, ABCe and GAe indices of certain join graphs (such as Cm+Pn+Sr, Pm+Pn+Pr, Cm+Cn+Cr and Sm+Sn+Sr) are deduced. Our results enrich and revise some known results.
The Analysis of the Physicochemical Properties of Benzocaine Polymorphs
Authors: Paczkowska Magdalena , Wiergowska Gabriela , Miklaszewski Andrzej , Krause Anna , Mroczkowka Magdalena , Zalewski Przemysław , Cielecka-Piontek Judyta
Published: July 2018

The study was a pioneering attempt to assess the influence of the structural polymorphism (forms I, II, III) of benzocaine on its solubility, apparent solubility, and chemical stability, which are vital parameters for preformulation and formulation work. The impact of differences in the solubility of selected polymorphs of benzocaine on their permeability through artificial biological membranes (PAMPA system) was evaluated. The polymorphs of benzocaine were obtained by means of techniques commonly used for the preparation of various pharmaceutical dosage forms: ball milling, micro milling, and cryogenic grinding, which allowed for the appearance or preservation of form III, the initial conformation of benzocaine. Ball milling resulted in the conversion of form III to I, whereas micro milling yielded form II. As a result of cryogenic grinding, form III of benzocaine was preserved. The identification of all polymorphic forms of benzocaine was confirmed via X-ray powder diffraction (PXRD) supported by FT-IR spectroscopy coupled with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The differences in solubility, dissolution, and permeability through artificial biological membranes resulting from the polymorphic forms of benzocaine were established by using chromatographic determinations. Accelerated stability tests indicated that all polymorphic forms were chemically stable at a required level.
Printable Nanomaterials for the Fabrication of High-Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Sun Jiazhen , Cui Bo , Chu Fuqiang , Yun Chenghu , He Min , Li Lihong , Song Yanlin
Published: July 2018

In recent years, supercapacitors are attracting great attention as one kind of electrochemical energy storage device, which have a high power density, a high energy density, fast charging and discharging, and a long cycle life. As a solution processing method, printing technology is widely used to fabricate supercapacitors. Printable nanomaterials are critical to the fabrication of high-performance supercapacitors by printing technology. In this work, the advantages of printing technology are summarized. Moreover, various nanomaterials used to fabricate supercapacitors by printing technology are presented. Finally, the remaining challenges and broad research as well as application prospects in printing high-performance supercapacitors with nanomaterials are proposed.
Characterization and Applications of Nanoparticles Modified in-Flight with Silica or Silica-Organic Coatings
Authors: Post Patrick , Wurlitzer Lisa , Maus-Friedrichs Wolfgang , Weber Alfred P.
Published: July 2018

Nanoparticles are coated in-flight with a plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) process at ambient or elevated temperatures (up to 300 °C). Two silicon precursors, tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO), are used to produce inorganic silica or silica-organic shells on Pt, Au and TiO2 particles. The morphology of the coated particles is examined with transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and the chemical composition is studied with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is found that both the precursor and certain core materials have an influence on the coating composition, while other parameters, such as the precursor concentration, aerosol residence time and temperature, influence the morphology, but hardly the chemical composition. The coated particles are used to demonstrate simple applications, such as the modification of the surface wettability of powders and the improvement or hampering of the photocatalytic activity of titania particles.
Thermal and Guest-Assisted Structural Transition in the NH2-MIL-53(Al) Metal Organic Framework: A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Investigation
Authors: Boulé Roald , Roland Claire , Le Pollés Laurent , Audebrand Nathalie , Ghoufi Aziz
Published: July 2018

Reversible structural transition between the Large (LP) and Narrow Pore (NP) forms (breathing phenomena) of the MIL-53(X, X = Al, Cr, Fe, Ga) Metal Organic Framework (MOF) is probably one of the most amazing physical properties of this class of soft-porous materials. Whereas great attention has been paid to the elucidation of the physical mechanism ruling this reversible transition, the effect of the functionalization on the flexibility has been less explored. Among functionalized MIL-53(Al) materials, the case of NH2-MIL-53(Al) is undoubtedly a very intriguing structural transition rarely observed, and the steadier phase corresponds to the narrow pore form. In this work, the flexibility of the NH2-MIL-53(Al) metal organic framework was investigated by means of molecular dynamics simulations. Guest (methanol) and thermal breathing of the NH2-MIL-53(Al) was thus explored. We show that it is possible to trigger a reversible transition between NP and LP forms upon adsorption, and we highlight the existence of stable intermediate forms and a very large pore phase. Furthermore, the NP form is found thermodynamically stable from 240 to 400 K, which is the result of strong intramolecular hydrogen bonds.
An Extract Purified from the Mycelium of a Tomato Wilt-Controlling Strain of Fusarium sambucinum Can Protect Wheat against Fusarium and Common Root Rots
Authors: Shcherbakova Larisa , Nazarova Tatyana , Mikityuk Oleg , Istomina Ekaterina , Odintsova Tatyana
Published: July 2018

An approach to manage seed-transmitted Fusarium crown-foot-root rot (FCR, Fusarium spp.) and common root rot (CRR, Bipolaris sorokiniana) on wheat, avoiding environmental risks of chemicals, is seed treatments with microbial metabolites. F. sambucinum strain FS-94 that induces resistance to tomato wilt was shown by this study to be a source of non-fungitoxic wheat-protecting metabolites, which were contained in a mycelium extract purified by gel-chromatography and ultrafiltration. Plant-protecting effect of the purified mycelial extract (PME) was demonstrated in vegetation experiments using a rolled-towel assay and by small-plot field trials. To elucidate mechanisms putatively underlying PME protective activity, tests with cultured Triticum aestivum and T. kiharae cells, particularly the extracellular alkalinization assay, as well as gene expression analysis in germinated wheat seeds were used. Pre-inoculation treatments of seeds with PME significantly decreased the incidence (from 30 to 40%) and severity (from 37 to 50%) of root rots on seedlings without any inhibition of the seed germination and potentiation of deoxynivalenol (DON), DON monoacetylated derivatives and zearalenon production in FCR agents. In vegetation experiments, reductions in the DON production were observed with doses of 0.5 and 1 mg/mL of PME. Pre-sowing PME application on seeds of two spring wheat cultivars naturally infected with FCR and CRR provided the mitigation of both diseases under field conditions during four growing seasons (2013–2016). PME-induced ion exchange response in cultured wheat cells, their increased survivability, and up-regulated expression of some defensins’ genes in PME-exposed seedlings allow the suggestion of the plant-mediated character of disease-controlling effect observed in field.
Biochar Remediation Improves the Leaf Mineral Composition of Telfairia occidentalis Grown on Gas Flared Soil
Authors: Akachukwu Doris , Gbadegesin Michael Adedapo , Ojimelukwe Philippa Chinyere , Atkinson Christopher John
Published: July 2018

This study evaluates the effects of remediation of gas flared soil by biochar on the nutritional composition of cultivated Telfairia occidentalis leaves, relative to non-gas flared soil. Gas flared soils are degraded due to the presence of heavy metals, noxious gases, carbon soot and acidic rain. Biochar produced from oil palm fibre was applied at five different amounts: 0 t ha−1, 7.1 t ha−1, 13.9 t ha−1, 20.9 t ha−1 and 28.0 t ha−1 to containerized soils (both gas flared and control soil), inside a greenhouse, which were allowed to mineralize for two weeks. Two viable seeds of T. occidentalis per replicate were sown. After eight weeks of growth, leaves were harvested, dried and chemically analyzed. Application of biochar significantly increased leaf ash and crude fibre content of Telfairia occidentalis. Plants from soil treated with 13.9 t ha−1 of biochar had the highest concentrations of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and E irrespective of soil type. Maximum increase in leaf vitamin and mineral content was obtained from leaves cultivated on gas flared soil treated with 13.9 t ha−1 and 7.1 t ha−1 of biochar respectively. The results show that biochar treatment can increase leaf mineral concentrations and that this effect is dependent on the amount of biochar application.
Sensitivity Tests of Pellets Made from Manganese Antimonate Nanoparticles in Carbon Monoxide and Propane Atmospheres
Authors: Guillén-Bonilla Héctor , Rodríguez-Betancourtt Verónica-M. , Guillen-Bonilla José Trinidad , Gildo-Ortiz Lorenzo , Guillen-Bonilla Alex , Casallas-Moreno Y. L. , Blanco-Alonso Oscar , Reyes-Gómez Juan
Published: July 2018

Nanoparticles of manganese antimonate (MnSb2O6) were prepared using the microwave-assisted colloidal method for its potential application as a gas sensor. For the synthesis of the oxide, manganese nitrate, antimony chloride, ethylenediamine and ethyl alcohol (as a solvent) were used. The precursor material was calcined at 800 °C in air and analyzed by X-ray diffraction. The oxide crystallized into a hexagonal structure with spatial group P321 and cell parameters a = b = 8.8054 Å and c = 4.7229 Å. The microstructure of the material was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), finding the growth of microrods with a size of around ~10.27 μm and some other particles with an average size of ~1.3 μm. Photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) studies showed that the optical energy band (Eg) of the oxide was of ~1.79 eV. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses indicated that the size of the nanoparticles was of ~29.5 nm on average. The surface area of the powders was estimated at 14.6 m2/g by the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) method. Pellets prepared from the nanoparticles were tested in carbon monoxide (CO) and propane (C3H8) atmospheres at different concentrations (0–500 ppm) and operating temperatures (100, 200 and 300 °C). The pellets were very sensitive to changes in gas concentration and temperature: the response of the material rose as the concentration and temperature increased. The results showed that the MnSb2O6 nanoparticles can be a good candidate to be used as a novel gas sensor.
Text You Pictures: The Role of Group Belonging, Race Identity, Race, and Gender in Older Adolescents’ Mobile Phone Use
Authors: Barker Valerie
Published: July 2018

Prior research underscores the value of social identity in adolescent development. Guided by social identity theory and employing an online survey, this study examined mobile phone use among older adolescents (18–19 years; n = 362), with special emphasis on social identity: group belonging, race identity, and group markers: race and gender. The findings confirmed that social identity markers play a role in popular forms of social mobile use (e.g., texting, phone camera, and music), especially among females. Nonwhite participants were more likely to report using generic phone apps for social compensation, although whites reported higher incidence of use than nonwhites for generic phone apps, texting, and taking pictures.
Rethinking Consumerism from the Perspective of Religion
Authors: Kurenlahti Mikko , Salonen Arto O.
Published: July 2018

Due to the global challenges that are posed by the Anthropocene and the academic focus on the fragmented state of modernity, we extend an invitation for shared dialogue on the all-pervading nature of consumerism as the seemingly problematic ethos of Western consumer culture. To this end, we outline a way to approach consumerism as an implicit religion, theorized as having adopted functionalities related to explicitly faith-based traditions within secular settings. We suggest that a similar kind of holistic and multidimensional approach might be of great benefit in the implementation of sustainability, as this would allow, e.g., (i) a more holistic analysis of the all-pervading nature of consumerism; (ii) acknowledgement of the functional diversity of the phenomenon; (iii) recognition of the shallowness of the critique of consumerism as a way of life; and, (iv) shared dialogue across a spectrum of academic perspectives under a unified model. This approach problematizes standard interpretations of consumerism as being about the promotion of the individual against the collective and as leading to a general sense of purposelessness. The perspective of religion reveals how patterns of consumption become illuminated with meaning and connected to a shared way for individuals to articulate a sense of purpose in contemporary contexts.
Adaptive and Blind Audio Watermarking Algorithm Based on Chaotic Encryption in Hybrid Domain
Authors: Wu Qiuling , Wu Meng
Published: July 2018

An adaptive and blind audio watermarking algorithm is proposed based on chaotic encryption in discrete cosine transform (DCT) and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) hybrid domain. Since human ears are not sensitive to small changes in the high-frequency components of the audio media, the encrypted watermark can be embedded into the audio signal according to the special embedding rules. The embedding depth of each audio segment is controlled by the overall average amplitude to effectively improve the robustness and imperceptibility. The watermark is encrypted by a chaotic sequence to improve the security of watermark, so only users who hold the correct key can accurately extract the watermark without the original audio signal. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has larger capacity, higher imperceptibility, better security, and stronger robustness when combating against signal-processing attacks than the involved audio watermarking algorithms in recent years.
A Note on Ordering Probability Distributions by Skewness
Authors: García V. J. , Martel-Escobar M. , Vázquez-Polo F. J.
Published: July 2018

This paper describes a complementary tool for fitting probabilistic distributions in data analysis. First, we examine the well known bivariate index of skewness and the aggregate skewness function, and then introduce orderings of the skewness of probability distributions. Using an example, we highlight the advantages of this approach and then present results for these orderings in common uniparametric families of continuous distributions, showing that the orderings are well suited to the intuitive conception of skewness and, moreover, that the skewness can be controlled via the parameter values.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT EDUCATION IN METALLURGICAL COMPANIES IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Authors: Kostalova Jana , Bednarikova Marie , Patak Michal
Published: July 2018

The paper focuses on the issue of project management education as the tool of positive influence on the success of project implementation in corporate practice. The aim of the authors is to identify the ways of training project managers, project team members and top management members in project management on the basis of interviews with human resources managers of metallurgical companies in the Czech Republic. Based on the findings, recommendations of appropriate measures are formulated at the end of the paper to improve the situation in the area of project management education in metallurgical companies.