bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanical behavior of wheel steels
with solid solution and precipitation
hardening
Authors: Kulyk V.V. , Shipitsyn S.Ya. , Ostash O.P. , Duriagina Z.A. , Vira V.V.
Published: April 2019

Purpose: The aim of the proposed research is to investigate operational properties of a wheel steel treated with simultaneous solid solution and precipitation hardening at various carbon content, in comparison with the standard wheel grade T steel.
Design/methodology/approach: The mechanical behaviour of wheel steels with increased content of silicon, manganese, vanadium, and nitrogen at various carbon content has been investigated and compared to that of the standard high-strength wheel grade T steel. The steels were undergo thermal treatment due to austenitic heating up to a temperature of 950ºС with cooling down in water to 550ºС followed by intense blowing of blanks in the air. After that, a tempering was performed at a temperature in the range of 450-650ºС. Static strength (UTS), relative elongation (TEL), impact toughness tests (KCV) were determined on standard specimens. The characteristics of Mode I fatigue crack growth resistance of steel were determined on the basis of fatigue macrocrack growth rate diagrams da/dN–KІ, obtained by the standard method on compact specimens with the thickness of 10 mm at a frequency of 10-15 Hz and the stress ratio R = 0.1 and R = 0.5 of the loading cycle. The characteristics of Mode II fatigue crack growth resistance were determined on the basis of da/dN–KІІ diagrams, obtained earlier method on edge notched specimens with the thickness 3.2 mm at a frequency of 10-15 Hz and R = –1 taking account of the crack face friction. Rolling contact fatigue testing was carried out on the model specimens.
Findings: The regularities of the change of mechanical characteristics of the high-strength wheel steel with simultaneous solid solution and precipitation hardening at lowered carbon content under static, impact and cyclic loading are studied.
Research limitations/implications: The results obtained using laboratory samples should be checked during a real railway wheels investigation.
Practical implications: The investigated steel with simultaneous solid solution and precipitation hardening provides high wear resistance of the tread surface and damage resistance determined on the model wheels.
Originality/value: A steel with solid solution hardening due to increased content of silicon (up to 0.7%) and manganese (up to 0.8%) and also with precipitation hardening (at optimal content of vanadium and nitrogen [V‧N]‧104 = 28.9%) at lowered carbon content (0.52) possesses high strength and fatigue fracture toughness in cases of Mode I and Mode II loading, causing better combination of wear and damage resistances of the tread surface of the model wheels, as compared to corresponding parameters for grade T steel.
Polysyncraton (Ascidiacea, Didemnidae): a re-examination of some specimens and descriptions of three new species
Authors: Oliveira Livia M. , Hoeksema Bert W. , Rocha Rosana M.
Published: April 2019

Polysyncraton Nott, 1892 is the second largest genus of didemnid ascidians; it has a wide distribution ranging from temperate to tropical waters. Seventy-one specimens of Polysyncraton from eight museum collections and recently collected samples were analyzed. This resulted in the description of three new species (P. cabofriense Oliveira & Rocha sp. nov. from Brazil, P. globosum Oliveira & Rocha sp. nov. from Australia and P. snelliusi Oliveira & Rocha sp. nov. from Suriname) and emended descriptions of three further species (P. amethysteum (Van Name, 1902), P. magnilarvum (Millar, 1962) and P. purou C. Monniot & F. Monniot, 1987).
Reseña de: Arsuaga Laborde, Diego. Pedro Fernández de Velasco, primer conde de Haro. Un estudio de la figura de un ricohombre en la Castilla del Cuatrocientos
Authors: Barquero Goñi Carlos
Published: April 2019

Reseña del libro:Arsuaga Laborde, Diego. Pedro Fernández de Velasco, primer conde de Haro. Un estudio de la figura de un ricohombre en la Castilla del Cuatrocientos. Madrid, Publicep, 2018, 404 págs. ISBN: 978-84-09-02872-6.
Reseña de: Beceiro Pita, Isabel (Directora), La espiritualidad y la configuración de los reinos ibéricos (siglos XII-XV)
Authors: Cantera Montenegro Enrique
Published: April 2019

Reseña del libro: Beceiro Pita, Isabel (Directora), La espiritualidad y la configuración de los reinos ibéricos (siglos XII-XV). Madrid. Editorial Dykinson, S.L., 2018, 363 págs. ISBN: 978-84-9148-617-6.
Reseña de: Santiago Fernández, Javier de y Francisco Olmos, José María de, Corpus Inscriptionum Hispaniae Mediaevalium
Authors: López Villalba José Miguel
Published: April 2019

Santiago Fernández, Javier de y Francisco Olmos, José María de, Corpus Inscriptionum Hispaniae Mediaevalium. Guadalajara (1112-1499), León, Universidad de León, 2018, 311 pp. ISBN: 978-84-9773-920-7.
Bayesian Sequential Learning for Railway Cognitive Radio
Authors: Wang Cheng , Wang Yiming , Wu Cheng
Published: April 2019

Applying cognitive radio in the railway communication systems is a cutting-edge research area. The rapid motion of the train makes the spectrum access of the railway wireless environment instable. To address the issue, first we formulate the spectrum management of railway cognitive radio as a distributed sequential decision problem. Then, based on the available environmental information, we propose a multi-cognitive-base-station cascade collaboration algorithm by using naive Bayesian learning and agent theory. Finally, our experiment results reveal that the model can improve the performance of spectrum access. This cognitive-base-station multi-agent system scheme comprehensively solves the problem of low efficiency in the dynamic access of the railway cognitive radio. The article is also a typical case of artificial intelligence applied in the field of the smart city.
A network approach to identify bioregions in the distribution of Mediterranean amphipods associated with Posidonia oceanica meadows
Authors: Bellisario Bruno , Camisa Federica , Abbattista Chiara , Cimmaruta Roberta
Published: April 2019

Although amphipods are key components of the macro-fauna associated with Posidonia oceanica meadows, to date no studies focused on the structure and diversity of their assemblages across the whole Mediterranean Sea. Here, we applied a network approach based on modularity on a dataset mined from literature to identify biogeographic modules and to assess the biogeographic roles of associated localities. We also correlated the patterns evidenced with the biogeographic distribution of amphipod groups by means of a multivariate analysis. Modularity analysis highlighted four biogeographic modules bounded by the main Mediterranean biogeographic divides and evidenced a decrease in species diversity along a NW-SE gradient. Assemblages associated with Central-Western Mediterranean and, to a lesser extent, Tunisian modules showed the highest species richness and were identified as hubs, characterized by species with regional distributions that behave as source in a biogeographic context. The paleogeographic history of the host seagrass and the ecology of associated amphipods, both suggest the joint effect of species persistence and post-Last Glacial Maximum expansion in explaining the pattern of amphipod distribution in the Mediterranean Sea.
Impacts of Coal Stockpile on Soil and Water
Authors: Al-Amin A. K. M. , Azam Md. Shahriar , Rahman Md. Shazzadur , Tajremin Afifa , Haque M. K. , Rimi Tahmina Akter
Published: April 2019

In this study, the soil and water samples were analyzed to evaluate the effects of coal stockpile on soil and water quality at Haluaghat Upazilla, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. As a natural resource, coal has potential contributions to the development of economics of a country but coal storage deteriorates surrounding surface and ground water and soil quality in different ways. Besides, it has significant impacts on the arable lands and water catchments. The analyses of 10 soil and 10 water samples (5 samples from ground water and 5 samples from surface water) were collected at 0 m, 200 m, 500 m and 700 m distance from the coal storage area were carried out using standard methods. The pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter (OM), macronutrients (N, P and K) and heavy metals (Lead and Cadmium) were analysed for soil samples and for water samples pH, EC, macronutrients (P and K), heavy metals (Pb and Cd) were analysed. From the results, it was observed that most of the value of soil and water quality components were higher at close to the coal stockpile area and gradually decreased with distance. Soil pH value showed a decreasing trend (5.2 to 3.2) with increasing distances from the coal storage area; whereas water pH increased gradually with increasing distances from the coal storage area. Soil OM content was found highest at the coal storage area, which decreased gradually with increasing distance. The content of soil N, P, K was also recorded highest at the coal storage area which followed decreasing trend with increasing distance. The content of Pb and Cd in soil adjacent to coal storage area was higher compared to distant areas (500-700 m) in paddy field. The soil quality might be deteriorated due to coal stockpile effluents. The effluents from the coal stockpile should be treated before it is discharged to soil or water.
Mycotoxins Consumption and Burden of Aflatoxin-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in People Subsisting on Sorghum Based Products in the Derived Savannah Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Garba M. H.
Published: April 2019

Sorghum is a local grain that grows predominantly in the semi-arid, savannah and grassland region of Northern Nigeria and other parts of the world. Sorghum samples were collected from five districts in each of the six agro-ecological zones, while the sorghum based products such as gruel, pap and porridge were also sampled using A quantitative food frequency questionnaire (QFFQ) followed by measurement of the body weight and  the quantity of food consumed by the respondents. The mycotoxin concentrations in both raw sorghum sample and the sorghum based products were determined using High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Mycotoxin concentrations determined from the two different samples was used to determine the amount of mycotoxins consumed by respondents from different age groups. Subsequently the burden of aflatoxin induced Hepato celluar carcinoma (HCC) in communities (within the zone) that subsist on sorghum and sorghum based products was also determined. There was a significant difference (P = 0.05) between the concentration of the mycotoxins in the raw and the processed sorghum samples in the area under study. The processing methods employed in the in the preparation of these products could not reduce the toxin level below the PTDI and TDI levels set by the regulatory agencies. Average daily consumption of sorghum based products based on age range was found to be 192.5 g/day, 617.0 g/day, 810.2 g/day and 746.1 g/day for the infants, children, adults and elderly respectively The incidence of HCC and the burden aflatoxin induced HCC in the HbsAg+ and the HbsAg- populations was alarmingly high. Sorghum is a major grain corn in the world agricultural economy and represents an important staple food for the populations of many developing countries. Nevertheless, the nutritional value of sorghum as human food, as well as a feed material for animals, is impaired by its susceptibility to infection by fungi and fungal metabolites and this calls for urgent mitigation strategies to avoid health emergencies particularly in the poverty stricken countries of the sub Saharan Africa where this crop is a common staple.
Factors Affecting the Academic Performance of the Students of Bowen University, Nigeria
Authors: Okedigba Ibukun , Adedigba Tomiloba D. , Okedigba Temilola O.
Published: April 2019

Aim: Students’ academic performance is an important criterion that is considered for career opportunity in academia and industry as such the onus is on students to perform well academically in order to stand a chance of holding their own in a competitive and saturated labour market. The fact however is that a number of factors within and outside the classroom combine to determine how well students perform academically. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine the impact of factors such as gender, study habits, faculty of study, extracurricular activities, boyfriend/girlfriend relationship, social media usage and type of secondary school attended on students’ academic performance in Bowen University.

Study Design:  A survey research design was used which employed a questionnaire capable of gathering large amount of quantitative and qualitative data.

Place and Duration of Study: Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria between March 2017 and May 2017.

Methodology: A self-designed survey questionnaire was administered to a sample of 380 students (144 males, 236 females) drawn from a population of 3,819 students using multi-stage sampling technique. Data collected during the survey were processed and analyzed using various statistical techniques including frequencies, percentages, independent samples t-test, analysis of variance test and Chi-Square test for independence. 

Results: Survey results indicated that gender, involvement in extracurricular activities, involvement in boyfriend/girlfriend relationship, study habit and social media usage significantly impact upon student’s academic performance while the type of secondary attended and the faculty of study were found not to significantly affect academic performance of the students.

Conclusion: The survey results demonstrated that some of the considered factors significantly affect academic performance of students while some do not. As such, it is important for students to develop good study habits that will enable them spend more time studying while also cutting down on the number of hours spent daily on social media. In the same vein, students should be more involved in extracurricular activities that promote fitness, total wellness and team work. In addition, relationships should be well managed to ensure that they do not negatively impact on students’ academic performance.
Sanitary Status of Soybeans Seeds Produced in Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Kabangu J. Mudibu Wa , Kabemba N. Kalonji , Katoto P. , Lukombo J. C. , Mukendi J. , Manyi M. Muengula , Biola Funny , Lukanda Tshilenge , Tshiombe V. , Mbuyi A. Kalonji
Published: April 2019

Soybean is one of the main food crops in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Its production is ensured mainly by farmers who use seeds of various origins. However, yields obtained with this crop remain low because of seed-borne diseases that also affect the quality of the seeds.

Twenty – two batches of seeds collected in the Democratic Republic of Congo were analyzed. The average values ​​of weight purity recorded ranged from 79 to 100 %, germination rates from 0 % to 86.6 % and seed weight from 71.1 to 152 g. Several phytopathogenic agents have been identified on both certified variety and landraces. The fungus Fusarium solani F.sp Glycine, Aspergillus sp, Rhizoctonia solani, Phomopsis longicola, Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Glycine and Pseudomonas syringae pv Glycine have been identified.
Comparison of Genetic Parameters in Non-segregating and Segregating Populations of Sugar Beet in Egypt
Authors: Bayomi K. E. M. , El-Hashash E. F.
Published: April 2019

This work aimed mainly at comparison among non-segregating (P1, P2 and F1) and segregating (F2, BC1 and BC2) generations using genetic parameters for four traits in the cross Eg27 x Fc723 cmsduring 2015 to 2018 in Ras-Sudr station, Desert Research Center (DRC), South Sinai and Private Farm in Kafr El Sheikh Governorate. According to combined analysis of variance, highly significant environments (E) for all studied traits and significant or highly significant genotype (G) and GxE interactions for most traits were observed during six generations. In respect to mean performances, Kafr El-Shiekh location was higher than Ras-Sudr location for most studied traits at six generations. Significant differences among six generation means were found for all studied traits in the two locations. The F2 generation was lower than the P1, P2, F1, BC1 and BC2 generations for most studied traits at the two locations. The cross (Eg27 x Fc723 cms) recorded positive and highly significant heterosis, heterobeltiosis and inbreeding depression for most studied traits under two locations. A high broad sense heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean (GAM%) estimates were observed for root diameter/plant at BC1, root weight/plant at BC2 and T.S.S.% at BC1 and BC2. Generally, the values of the all studied genetic parameters for all studied traits during segregating generations were higher than non-segregating generations. The principal component analysis of the relationship between the six generations revealed that the most appropriate generations for selecting these traits were BC1 and BC2 under the two locations. Backcrossing may be done for 2–5 cycles (BC2 – BC5) at Eg27 parent for improving sugar beet yield in Egypt.
GIS Aided Groundwater Quality Mapping of Central Brahmaputra Valley Zone of Assam, India
Authors: Thakuria I. H. , Hazarika P. P. , Deka K. , Medhi B. K. , Rahman N. , Baruah N. , Baruah S.
Published: April 2019

Groundwater is an essential resource for sustainable development all over the world. To understand the use of water resources, the fundamental characteristics and recharge of the groundwater need to be analyzed. GIS is considered as an effective and powerful tool for collecting, storing, transforming the spatial information for the need-based site-specific decision-making process. Thus, GIS tools have opened new paths in land and water resource studies. In the present study, GIS-based mapping of the groundwater in the central Brahmaputra Valley Zone is done with a view to observing the various quality characters. The results of this investigation could be used by decision-makers for the sustainable management of groundwater resources. The groundwater pH of the district was found to be within the desirable limit as recommended by WHO but 67.30% sample covering 79% of the total geographical area of the district was slightly alkaline in nature. Groundwater quality parameters that surpassed the desirable limit recommended by WHO, were electrical conductivity and nitrate which accounted for 41.22% and 0.79% of the total samples. Total Dissolved Solids, calcium, magnesium, carbonate, bicarbonate and nitrate in groundwater were recorded within the desirable limit of WHO and thus could be considered as safe. Spatial autocorrelation run for all the quality parameters with respect to their positions and values over the entire district envisaged the possibilities of forming different pattern namely CLUSTER for pH, EC, As, F, Fe, Al, Mn,HCO3, RANDOM for Mg, Ca, CO3, NO3, SO4 and DISPERSED for TDS. GIS-aided mapping of groundwater quality parameters embracing their category wise spatial distribution, area, maximum and minimum values, surface autocorrelation of observed values could give a better idea to opt for suitable need-based management strategy for the entire district.
Evaluation of Awareness of Susceptibility to Human Papilloma Virus and Cervical Cancer Screening among Nurses at University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Chubike Ndie Elkenah , Irolo Elusoji Christiana , Adeolu Ejidokun
Published: April 2019

Aim of the Study: The study aimed at evaluation of awareness of Susceptibility to Human Papilloma Virus and Cervical Cancer Screening among Nurses at University of Benin Teaching Hospital.

Research Design: Cross sectional descriptive survey design was used for the study.

Study Place: The place of study is University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria.

Duration of Study: Data was collected within four weeks in December 2016.

Method of Data Collection: A validated self-structured questionnaire was utilised for data collection. A total of 281 nurses who worked in UBTH were recruited for the study. The study setting was purposively selected due the cervical cancer mortality observed among nurses in recent time. The level of significance was put at 0.05.

Findings: The results showed that 62 (24.2%) and 153 (59.8%) of the nurses are aware of susceptibility to Human papilloma Virus and cervical cancer and its prevention, respectively. However, 116 (45.3%) exhibited a negative attitude towards the proven screening modality. Those who demonstrated negative attitude towards pap smears utilisation were less likely to utilise it. This was found to be statistically significant (chi-square = 14.899, df = 1, p value = 0.000.

Conclusion: Besides, nurses with university education exhibited positive attitude towards pap smear test more than their counterparts who had diploma education in nursing/midwifery. Similarly, older nurses exhibited a positive attitude more than the younger counterparts.

Recommendation: Intervention programmes that would focus on change of attitude of the nurses towards utilisation of cervical cancer screening were recommended. Further study on the utilisation of cervical cancer screening by these nurses were also was also recommended.
Effectiveness of Pangandaran Beach Tourism Destination Publications, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Hasibuan Bernard , Ratnasari Lisa , Gusdini Ninin
Published: April 2019

Pangandaran Beach is one of the fastest growing beach tourist destinations in Indonesia, where the number of foreign tourists visiting is as much as 9.44 million and domestic tourists as many as 251.20 million trips per year. The purpose of this study is to see the effectiveness of publications about Pangandaran Beach carried out in various media. The method used is EPIC model that takes into account the dimensions of Empathy, Persuasion, Impact, and Communication. The sample in this study were tourists who had visited Pangandaran Beach and saw the publication media. The results of this study indicate that the score for the empathy dimension is 3.41; persuasion dimensions of 3.64; impact dimension of 3.59; communication dimension of 3.46. When viewed from the EPIC rate which calculates all dimensions, a score of 3.53 is obtained. These results show three dimensions of empathy, persuasion and effective communication, while impact dimensions are quite effective. The EPIC rate of 3.53 indicates that the Pangandaran beach publication is effective.
Evaluation of Groundwater Vulnerability to Contamination in Coimbatore District
Authors: Meenakshi P. , Ganesh A.
Published: April 2019

Groundwater usage in the world is widely reported to increase because of the uncertainties attached with the availability of surface water. Groundwater resources are looked upon as the alternate source of freshwater on account of its widespread and continuous availability in proximity to the point of use or living place, less vulnerability to contamination and low cost of extraction in both urban and rural area of developed and developing countries of the world. Such a scenario has led to the degradation and depletion of groundwater resources in many parts of the world. The study area, Coimbatore district, is a rapidly urbanizing and industrializing city in the southern part of India which relies upon the groundwater resources for meeting the agricultural, industrial and domestic requirements. In view of this evaluation of groundwater resources and an understanding of the vulnerability of the aquifer to contamination become essential for the effective management of groundwater resources. The vulnerability of the groundwater to contamination is assessed using DRASTIC and Pesticide DRASTIC index in the GIS environment. The study showed that the high vulnerability areas are characterized by shallow water table of less than 4 m, gentle topography, sandy loam soils, thinner vadose zone and underlying geologic formations with well-developed fissures and fractures.
Sedimentary Transport Influences on Diagenetic Processes at the Amazon Continental Shelf, Brazil
Authors: Aprile Fabio , Siqueira Gilmar W. , Darwich Assad , Irion Georg
Published: April 2019

This research aimed to correlate the sedimentary transport with the diagenetic processes in the coastal zone and Amazon Continental Shelf (ACS). Physical and physical-chemical parameters, trace element contents (Cr, Pb, Ni, Zn and Hg), and O2, CO2 and iron flux were determined in sediment and pore water. Sedimentary incubation (96 hours) and algorithms were applied to determine the variation of the activity coefficient (ΔI) and ionic strength (Fi) of the predominant chemical species, and to estimate the net production and mineralization of the organic matter (ΔCO2T) in the system. There are not many studies applying incubation tests to identify the diagenetic processes, especially in fluvial-marines sediments. The results showed a strong zonation associated to the transport and deposition processes, influenced mainly by the grain-size and texture of sediment and fluvial streams. The distribution of trace elements followed the trend of the sedimentary pattern, with higher levels of metals in the deposits of clay minerals and organic matter. A factor of weight (Fw), calculated to establish the degree of importance of each parameter under the distribution and mobility of trace elements, suggests that the mobility of Cr, Ni and Zn is controlled by depth, clay and organic compounds contents, and concentration of dissolved oxygen. The vertical flow of O2 and CO2 and the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio in the pore water suggest a predominance of organic matter oxidation in the sedimentary layer between 0.0 and 0.2 m, with partially anaerobic mineralization of the sediments below 0.4 m. Increases in trace element concentrations were observed in iron reduction zones, indicating processes of desorption of oxides and hydroxides of Fe and mineralization of organic matter. The extrapolation of the results of the incubation test to the studied system allowed to establish three hypotheses related to the diagenetic processes: 1) the flow of marine currents may be allowing the aerobic oxidation in the sandy sediments, with the nitrification route more accentuated than the ammonification route; 2) in the region of the coastal zone and inner continental shelf the routes of oxidation and reduction may be alternating according to the physical-chemical factors and seasonality; 3) in the coastal zone and inner shelf the net mineralization rate exceeded the net production rate of the organic matter (ΔCO2T >0).
Exploration of Antidiabetic Activity of Stephania japonica Leaf Extract in Alloxan-Induced Swiss Albino Diabetic Mice
Authors: Islam Md. Dobirul , Akter Syeda Farida , Islam Md. Amirul , Uddin Md. Salim
Published: April 2019

Aims: Presently the medicinal world is rapidly turning more on the therapeutic health benefits of natural product and medicinal plants in the management of major crucial disease and their complications. Medicinal plant, Stephania japonica has been studied for exploring antidiabetic potentiality as an alternative source of medicine against the global threat of Diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods: The extraction of S. japonica leaf was carried out by acetone and ethanol. Phytochemical screening and quantitative analysis of S. japonica leaf extracts were evaluated through chemically forming characterized color formation and calibration method respectively, by using standard reference substances (ascorbic acid, gallic acid, and quercetin) to assess the probable compounds present in the extract. Anti-diabetic potentiality of highest phytochemicals containing two extracts were investigated in in vitro as a ⍺-amylase inhibitors and in vivo through alloxan-induced Swiss albino diabetes mice model.

Results: Alkaloids, carbohydrates, steroids, flavonoids, resins, saponins, tannins and coumarins were present in the leaf extracts. The estimated amount of total phenolics, flavonoids, flavonols and proanthrocyanidins contents of acetone and ethanol extract were 92.12±0.64 and 56.54±1.05 mg of gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/gm of dry extract, 66.02±1.42 and 46.17±0.54 mg of catechin equivalent (CAE)/gm of dry extract, 7.05±0.108 and 5.26±0.083 mg of quercetin equivalent (QUE)/gm of dry extract, 35.19±0.67 and 9.55±1.11 mg CAE/gm of dry extract, respectively. In 3, 5-dinitrosalicylic acid method, acetone and ethanol extract showed α-amylase inhibition of 51.02% and 46.62%, respectively at the concentration of 1000 µg/mL whereas in starch iodine color assay, acetone and ethanol extract showed inhibition of 57.32% and 52.12%, respectively at the concentration of 800 µg/mL. In contrast, both of the leaf extracts significantly (p<0.05 to p<0.001) improved the lipid profile parameters, blood glucose level and serum hepatic marker proteins in alloxan-induced diabetic mice.

Conclusion: The present study strongly concluded that S. japonica leaf extracts process potent antidiabetic potentiality that might be significance for the management of diabetes and its complications.
Design of Domestic Sewage Treatment System Based on Programmable Logic Controller
Authors: Dang Jinjin , Gu Yuxi , Zhou Juncheng , Huang Hexiu , Wang Lijun
Published: April 2019

This paper focuses on the design of software and hardware for the purification and recycling of domestic sewage discharged from a residential area. According to the characteristics of domestic sewage, the process used in this paper is determined to be Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR) process and the allocation of system input/output (I/O) port. According to the determination of the process flow to select appropriate instruments, sensors and other equipment, using Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) to design the system in manual mode and automatic mode of the program respectively, to achieve the function of sewage treatment.
Isolation and Characterization of Plasmid - Bearing Multiple Antibiotic Resistance Bacteria from Different Aquatic Sources in Akure, Nigeria
Authors: A. K. Onifade, , S. Alaofin, , O. O. Owoyemi,
Published: April 2019

Aims: This study was designed to investigate the plasmid bearing multiple antibiotic resistant bacteria from different aquatic sources.

Place and Duration of Study: This research work was carried out in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo state, Nigeria between January and June, 2018.

Methodology: The pathogenic bacteria associated with water samples collected from different sources in Akure, Nigeria were isolated and characterized. A total of 521 water samples were collected from sources such as wells, taps, streams, rivers, boreholes and rain. All the samples were subjected to presumptive, confirmed and completed tests to evaluate their microbiological quality. The microbial types in the samples were determined using standard microbiological techniques. All isolates obtained in this study were subjected to antibiotic sensitivity analysis and screened for Beta-lactamase production (ESBL). Plasmid profile analysis of the resistance isolates was carried out using standard method. Furthermore, post-curing of the plasmid mediated antibiotic resistance isolates was performed and data obtained were analyzed and presented using analysis of variance.

Results: Bacterial isolates such as Acinetobacter baumanni, Citrobacter freundii, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella typhimurum, Salmonella paratyphi, Shigella dysenteriae, Serratia marcescens, Proteus vulgaris and Vibrio cholerae were identified from the water samples. The isolate E. coli had the highest percentage distribution of 24.10% in well water and 26.19% in stream water while Salmonella species had the highest occurrence of 53.85% in rain water. The Beta-lactamase producing (ESBL) isolates were resistant to multiple antibiotics except Ciprofloxacin, Gentamycin and Pefloxacin that conferred antibacterial effect. Plasmid-gene profile analysis of the isolates revealed that S. typhimurium, K. pneumoniae, P. aeruginosa and P. vulgaris possess single plasmid each while only E. coli contain two plasmid bands. The post plasmid-curing antibiotic sensitivity test of the isolates revealed that the initial antibiotic resistance of the bacterial isolates were plasmid mediated.

Conclusion: Findings from this study suggest the purification of water from these sources before consumption is important as most microbes found in these samples are potential pathogens that are capable of causing infectious diseases with multiple antibiotic resistant features.
Priority approaches of occupational safety and health activities for preventing low back pain among caregivers
Authors: Iwakiri Kazuyuki , Takahashi Masaya , Sotoyama Midori , Liu Xinxin , Koda Shigeki
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The incidence of occupational low back pain (LBP) is high among caregivers. The use of care equipment and training about care methods could prevent LBP among caregivers. However, in care facilities in Japan, these measures are not adequately employed. Moreover, the care facilities have faced issues regarding poor staffing in recent years. The present study investigated the relationship between LBP and occupational safety and health activities (OSHAs) for preventing LBP among caregivers and aimed to validate the priority approaches of OSHA.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in care facilities for the elderly in Japan. Questionnaires for administrators and caregivers were distributed to 1,000 facilities and 5,000 caregivers, respectively. Questionnaires completed by 612 facilities and 2,712 caregivers were analyzed.

Results

No direct association was observed between severe LBP and OSHA, but indirect association was done. A significant relationship was noted between severe LBP and the care methods. Direct factors causing severe LBP were lifting a resident using human power and taking an unsuitable posture. These care methods were associated with the following OSHAs: promoting the use of care equipment, training about care methods, and consultation regarding the use of care equipment and employing an appropriate care method with the person in charge.

Conclusions

These OSHAs decreased lifting a resident using human power and taking an unsuitable posture, which are the primary risk factors of LBP. Therefore, these OSHAs should be implemented as priority approaches to prevent LBP among caregivers in care facilities for the elderly.
Nudt8 is a novel CoA diphosphohydrolase that resides in the mitochondria
Authors: Kerr Evan W. , Shumar Stephanie A. , Leonardi Roberta
Published: April 2019

CoA regulates energy metabolism and exists in separate pools in the cytosol, peroxisomes, and mitochondria. At the whole tissue level, the concentration of CoA changes with the nutritional state by balancing synthesis and degradation; however, it is currently unclear how individual subcellular CoA pools are regulated. Liver and kidney peroxisomes contain Nudt7 and Nudt19, respectively, enzymes that catalyze CoA degradation. We report that Nudt8 is a novel CoA‐degrading enzyme that resides in the mitochondria. Nudt8 has a distinctive preference for manganese ions and exhibits a broader tissue distribution than Nudt7 and Nudt19. The existence of CoA‐degrading enzymes in both peroxisomes and mitochondria suggests that degradation may be a key regulatory mechanism for modulating the intracellular CoA pools.
A novel method for monitoring the constancy of beam path accuracy in CyberKnife
Authors: Yang Bin , Wong Wing Kei Rebecca , Lam Wai Wang , Geng Hui , Kong Chi Wah , Cheung Kin Yin , Yu Siu Ki
Published: April 2019

The aim of current work was to present a novel evaluation procedure implemented for checking the constancy of beam path accuracy of a CyberKnife system based on ArcCHECK. A tailor‐made Styrofoam with four implanted fiducial markers was adopted to enable the fiducial tracking during beam deliveries. A simple two‐field plan and an isocentric plan were created for determining the density override of ArcCHECK in MultiPlan and the constancy of beam path accuracy respectively. Correlation curves for all diodes involved in the study were obtained by analyzing the dose distributions calculated by MultiPlan after introducing position shifts in anteroposterior, superoinferior, and left–right directions. The ability of detecting systematic position error was also evaluated by changing the position of alignment center intentionally. The one standard deviation (SD) result for reproducibility test showed the RMS of 0.054 mm and the maximum of 0.263 mm, which was comparable to the machine self‐test result. The mean of absolute value of position errors in the constancy test was measured to 0.091 mm with a SD of 0.035 mm, while the root‐mean‐square was 0.127 mm with a SD of 0.034 mm. All introduced systematic position errors range from 0.3 to 2 mm were detected successfully. Efficient method for evaluating the constancy of beam path accuracy of CyberKnife has been developed and proven to be sensitive enough for detecting a systematic drift of robotic manipulator. Once the workflow is streamlined, our proposed method will be an effective and easy quality assurance procedure for medical physicists.
Comparison of multiparametric MRI‐based and transrectal ultrasound‐based preplans with intraoperative ultrasound‐based planning for low dose rate interstitial prostate seed implantation
Authors: Fredman Elisha T. , Traughber Bryan J. , Gross Andrew , Podder Tarun , Colussi Valdir , Vinkler Robert , Machtay Mitchell , Ellis Rodney J.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Transrectal ultrasound images are routinely acquired for low dose rate (LDR) prostate brachytherapy dosimetric preplanning (pTRUS), although diagnostic multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) may serve this purpose as well. We compared the predictive abilities of TRUS vs MRI relative to intraoperative TRUS (iTRUS) to assess the role of mpMRI in brachytherapy preplanning.

Materials and methods

Retrospective analysis was performed on 32 patients who underwent iTRUS‐guided prostate LDR brachytherapy as either mono‐ or combination therapy. 56.3% had pTRUS‐only volume studies and 43.7% had both 3T‐mpMRI and pTRUS preplanning. MRI was used for preplanning and its image fusion with iTRUS was also used for intraoperative guidance of seed placement. Differences in gland volume, seed number, and activity and procedure time were examined, as well as the identification of lesions suspicious for tumor foci. Pearson correlation coefficient and Fisher's Z test were used to estimate associations between continuous measures.

Results

There was good correlation of planning volumes between iTRUS and either pTRUS or MRI (r = 0.89, r = 0.77), not impacted by the addition of hormonal therapy (P = 0.65, P = 0.33). Both consistently predicted intraoperative seed number (r = 0.87, r = 0.86). MRI/TRUS fusion did not significantly increase surgical or anesthesia time (P = 0.10, P = 0.46). mpMRI revealed suspicious focal lesions in 11 of 14 cases not visible on pTRUS, that when correlated with histopathology, were incorporated into the plan.

Conclusions

Relative to pTRUS, MRI yielded reliable preplanning measures, supporting the role of MRI‐only LDR treatment planning. mpMRI carries numerous diagnostic, staging and preplanning advantages that facilitate better patient selection and delivery of novel dose escalation and targeted therapy, with no additional surgical or anesthesia time. Prospective studies assessing its impact on treatment planning and delivery can serve to establish mpMRI as the standard of care in LDR prostate brachytherapy planning.
SAMHSA guide advises states on ways to extend MAT into justice systems
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: April 2019

A new federal guide seeks to encourage states to create or expand medication‐assisted treatment (MAT) initiatives in criminal justice settings, by tapping into diverse revenue sources and by lifting barriers such as lengthy gaps in Medicaid coverage for incarcerated individuals.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Carbonylative Synthesis of Benzosilinones from (2‐Iodophenyl)Hydrosilanes and Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Chen Bo , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: April 2019

A palladium‐catalyzed carbonylation procedure for the synthesis of benzosilinones from (2‐iodophenyl)hydrosilanes and terminal alkynes has been developed. With Pd(PPh3)4 as the catalyst and DABCO as the base, various benzosilinones were isolated in good to excellent yields with good functional group tolerance. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example for the preparation of benzosilinones from terminal alkynes.

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A Freestanding Single‐Wall Carbon Nanotube Film Decorated with N‐Doped Carbon‐Encapsulated Ni Nanoparticles as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Majeed Abdul , Hou Peng‐Xiang , Zhang Feng , Tabassum Hassina , Li Xin , Li Guo‐Xian , Liu Chang , Cheng Hui‐Ming
Published: April 2019

Noble‐metal free, cost‐effective, and highly stable catalysts with efficient activity for both the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) have attracted tremendous research interest in recent years. Here, a flexible, self‐standing hybrid film comprising a N‐doped single‐wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) network on which are anchored Ni nanoparticles encapsulated by a monolayer of N‐doped carbon (NCNi) is reported. The films are prepared by floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition followed by NH3 treatment. The material obtained at optimum conditions shows excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic activity in alkaline media with low overpotentials of 190 and 270 mV for HER and OER, respectively, to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2. A current density of 10 mA cm−2 at 1.57 V is achieved when this freestanding and binder‐free rod‐shaped NCNi/SWCNT assembly is used as cathode and anode in 1 m KOH solution for overall water splitting, presenting one of the best values reported to date.
Deep Learning: A Rapid and Efficient Route to Automatic Metasurface Design
Authors: Qiu Tianshuo , Shi Xin , Wang Jiafu , Li Yongfeng , Qu Shaobo , Cheng Qiang , Cui Tiejun , Sui Sai
Published: April 2019

Metasurfaces provide unprecedented routes to manipulations on electromagnetic waves, which can realize many exotic functionalities. Despite the rapid development of metasurfaces in recent years, the design process of metasurface is still time‐consuming and computational resource‐consuming. Moreover, it is quite complicated for layman users to design metasurfaces as plenty of specialized knowledge is required. In this work, a metasurface design method named REACTIVE is proposed on the basis of deep learning, as deep learning method has shown its natural advantages and superiorities in mining undefined rules automatically in many fields. REACTIVE is capable of calculating metasurface structure directly through a given design target; meanwhile, it also shows the advantage in making the design process automatic, more efficient, less time‐consuming, and less computational resource‐consuming. Besides, it asks for less professional knowledge, so that engineers are required only to pay attention to the design target. Herein, a triple‐band absorber is designed using the REACTIVE method, where a deep learning model computes the metasurface structure automatically through inputting the desired absorption rate. The whole design process is achieved 200 times faster than the conventional one, which convincingly demonstrates the superiority of this design method. REACTIVE is an effective design tool for designers, especially for laymen users and engineers.
Expanding the Functional Scope of the Fmoc‐Diphenylalanine Hydrogelator by Introducing a Rigidifying and Chemically Active Urea Backbone Modification
Authors: Basavalingappa Vasantha , Guterman Tom , Tang Yiming , Nir Sivan , Lei Jiangtao , Chakraborty Priyadarshi , Schnaider Lee , Reches Meital , Wei Guanghong , Gazit Ehud
Published: April 2019

Peptidomimetic low‐molecular‐weight hydrogelators, a class of peptide‐like molecules with various backbone amide modifications, typically give rise to hydrogels of diverse properties and increased stability compared to peptide hydrogelators. Here, a new peptidomimetic low‐molecular‐weight hydrogelator is designed based on the well‐studied N‐fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl diphenylalanine (Fmoc‐FF) peptide by replacing the amide bond with a frequently employed amide bond surrogate, the urea moiety, aiming to increase hydrogen bonding capabilities. This designed ureidopeptide, termed FmocPheNHCONHPheOH (Fmoc‐FuF), forms hydrogels with improved mechanical properties, as compared to those formed by the unmodified Fmoc‐FF. A combination of experimental and computational structural methods shows that hydrogen bonding and aromatic interactions facilitate Fmoc‐FuF gel formation. The Fmoc‐FuF hydrogel possesses properties favorable for biomedical applications, including shear thinning, self‐healing, and in vitro cellular biocompatibility. Additionally, the Fmoc‐FuF, but not Fmoc‐FF, hydrogel presents a range of functionalities useful for other applications, including antifouling, slow release of urea encapsulated in the gel at a high concentration, selective mechanical response to fluoride anions, and reduction of metal ions into catalytic nanoparticles. This study demonstrates how a simple backbone modification can enhance the mechanical properties and functional scope of a peptide hydrogel.
Do bone geometric properties of the proximal femoral diaphysis reflect loading history, muscle properties, or body dimensions?
Authors: Niinimäki Sirpa , Narra Nathaniel , Härkönen Laura , Abe Shinya , Nikander Riku , Hyttinen Jari , Knüsel Christopher J. , Sievänen Harri
Published: April 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate activity‐induced effects from bone geometric properties of the proximal femur in athletic vs nonathletic healthy females by statistically controlling for variation in body size, lower limb isometric, and dynamic muscle strength, and cross‐sectional area of Musculus gluteus maximus.

Methods

The material consists of hip and proximal thigh magnetic resonance images of Finnish female athletes (N = 91) engaged in either high jump, triple jump, soccer, squash, powerlifting, endurance running or swimming, and a group of physically active nonathletic women (N = 20). Cross‐sectional bone geometric properties were calculated for the lesser trochanter, sub‐trochanter, and mid‐shaft of the femur regions. Bone geometric properties were analyzed using a general linear model that included body size, muscle size, and muscle strength as covariates.

Results

Body size and isometric muscle strength were positively associated with bone geometric properties at all three cross‐sectional levels of the femur, while muscle size was positively associated with bone properties only at the femur mid‐shaft. When athletes were compared to nonathletic females, triple jump, soccer, and squash resulted in greater values in all studied cross‐sections; high jump and endurance running resulted in greater values at the femoral mid‐shaft cross‐section; and swimming resulted in lower values at sub‐trochanter and femur mid‐shaft cross‐sections.

Conclusions

Activity effects from ground impact loading were associated with higher bone geometric values, especially at the femur mid‐shaft, but also at lesser and sub‐trochanter cross‐sections. Bone geometric properties along the femur can be used to assess the mechanical stimuli experienced, where ground impact loading seems to be more important than muscle loading.