bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of nanofiltration and reverse osmosis potentialities to recover metals, sulfuric acid, and recycled water from acid gold mining effluent
Authors: Ricci Bárbara C. , Ferreira Carolina D. , Marques Larissa S. , Martins Sofia S. , Amaral Míriam C. S.
Published: April 2016

This work assessed the potential of nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) to treat acid streams contaminated with metals, such as effluent from the pressure oxidation process (POX) used in refractory gold ore processing. NF and RO were evaluated in terms of rejections of sulfuric acid and metals. Regarding NF, high sulfuric acid permeation (∼100%), was observed, while metals were retained with high efficiencies (∼90%), whereas RO led to high acid rejections (<88%) when conducted in pH values higher than 1. Thus, sequential use of NF and RO was proved to be a promising treatment for sulfuric acid solutions contaminated by metals, such as POX effluent. In this context, a purified acid stream could be recovered in NF permeate, which could be further concentrated in RO. Recovered acid stream could be reused in the gold ore processing or commercialized. A metal-enriched stream could be also recovered in NF retentate and transferred to a subsequent metal recovery stage. In addition, considering the high acid rejection obtained through the proposed system, RO permeate could be used as recycling water.
Patch-clamp recordings of thermal effects of magnetic stimulation on the physiological characteristic of rat hippocampal neurons
Authors: Zheng Yu , Dong Lei , Kong Ying , Hong Hui , Gao Yang , Zhao Zhe , Wang Hui-Quan
Published: April 2016

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has proven to be an invaluable tool
both in clinical practice and basic brain research. However, many concomitant
effects of TMS are still incompletely understood, including thermal effects
induced by TMS. The present study investigated how thermal effects induced by
magnetic stimulation influence the properties of the spontaneous excitatory
postsynaptic current (sEPSC) of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. We have
demonstrated that a 50-Hz low-frequency electromagnetic field with
intensities of 7, 14, and 23 mT can induce thermal heating in artificial
cerebrospinal fluid(aCSF) from 25 to 40?C over a period of 15 min. We also
report that the thermal effects induced by TMS directly influence the
properties of sEPSC in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Double measures
were taken to control the temperature across experiments in order to ensure
the accuracy of the temperature measurement of the aCSF. These novel findings
provide important insight into the thermal effects induced by TMS as well as
their consequences.
The effects of evodiamine on serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels are associated with the activation of the AMPK signaling pathway in rats with hyperlipemia
Authors: Yu Hui , Hu Hai , Gong Wuzhuang , Li Yang , Wang Zhanli , Wang Cuifeng
Published: April 2016

Evodiamine, a naturally occurring indole alkaloid, has been reported to have
numerous biological activities, including antitumor, antimicrobial and
anti-inflammatory effects. Previous studies also suggest that evodiamine
prevents obesity. In this study, we confirmed that evodiamine lowered the
levels of serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglycerides(TG) in rats with
hyperlipemia. Furthermore, our findings suggest that the activation of the
AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway might contribute in part to the
effect of evodiamine on the serum levels of TC and TG.
Genome-wide characterization and phylogenetic and expression analyses of the caleosin gene family in soybean, common bean and barrel medic
Authors: Shen Yue , Jia Qing-Li , Liu Ming-Zhe , Li Zhuo-Wei , Wang Li-Li , Zhao Cui-Zhu , Li Zhi-Xi , Zhang Meng
Published: April 2016

Caleosin are a class of calcium-binding proteins embedded in the phospholipid
monolayer of lipid droplets. In addition to maintaining thestructure of lipid
droplets, caleosin proteins areinvolved in dormancy and lipid signaling, and
areassociatedwith the stress response via their histidine-dependent
peroxygenase activity. To date, caleosins have been studied in Arabidopsis
thaliana. However, little is known about these genes in legumes,including the
most cultivated oilseed crop, soybean. In this paper,20 caleosin genes in
soybean, common bean and barrel medic werestudied. Among these, 13 caleosin
genes, including 3 in Glycine max, 5 in Phaseolus vulgarisand 5 in Medicago
truncatula, are identified for the first time. The structures,
characteristics and evolution of the 20 caleosin proteins are analyzed.
Expansion patterns show that tandem duplication was the main reason for the
caleosin family expansion in the legume. Expression profiles indicate that
L-caleosin in soybean and common bean are more important than H-caleosin,
which is just the opposite in Arabidopsis thaliana. GmaCLO2, PvuCLO1,
PvuCLO3and MtrCLO3may play important roles, while GmaCLO6, GmaCLO10and
MtrCLO4may lose their function in the examined tissues. In addition,
according to the results of cis-element analyses, we propose potential
functions for the more important caleosin genes in leguminous plants. Our
work provides helpful information for further evolution and function analyses
of the caleosin gene family in soybean, common bean and barrel medic.
"Doch wie’s da drin aussieht, geht niemand was an." Musikausübung und politikverständnis bei Hermann Scherchen
Authors: Lucchesi Joachim
Published: April 2016

Am Beispiel des deutschen Dirigenten Hermann Scherchen (1891-1966) wird
dargelegt, wie sein ?ffentliches Verschweigen eigener linker und
antifaschistischer Position in den Jahren nach 1933 zu negativen Reaktionen
und politisch motivierten Angriffen f?hrte.
Chanting of the inner space: on symphonic and concertante works by Milorad Marinkovic
Authors: Jankovic-Begus Jelena
Published: April 2016

The opus of contemporary Serbian composer Milorad Marinkovic (b. 1976), which
encompasses works of choral, chamber, concertante and symphony music, leans
towards classical forms of artistic music, Serbian folklore music, and
Serbian Orthodox church chant. This paper deals with pieces composed for
larger instrumental ensembles: Herojska uvertira (Heroic Overture) for
symphony orchestra, Psalmodija (Psalmody) for symphony orchestra, Koncert za
klavir i orkestar (Piano concerto) and Mala opera (Little Opera) for chamber
ensemble (septet) with prominent soloist parts of flute and clarinet. Special
attention is placed on different procedures used by Marinkovic to accomplish
wholeness and integration of the musical tissue. This paper observes these
pieces as examples of religious music, having in mind the composer?s own
understanding of the notion. Among common characteristics of the observed
works that justify this point of view are specific single movement forms and
the prominent role of main thematic materials, a cyclic principle, and
programmatic elements. References to Serbian church chant observed in
Marinkovic?s instrumental works are also discussed, especially in parallel
with the analogue procedures used by Ljubica Maric (1909- 2003), one of the
composer?s role models. Although Marinkovic?s works for instrumental
ensembles do not fall into the category of spiritual music in its narrow
sense (as defined by the composer himself), in this paper they are
nevertheless considered as ?spiritual? in a broader sense, as an expression
of the composer?s desire to spiritualize his entire artistic output.
Тhe value of transbronchial needle aspiration cytology in the diagnosis of stage I and II sarcoidosis
Authors: Tatomirovic Zeljka , Skuletic Vesna , Pekovic Dragana , Karlicic Vukoica , Djurovic Branka , Ristic Sasa , Tomic Ljiljana , Dzambas Jelena , Cerovic Snezana
Published: April 2016

Background/Aim. Sarcoidosis is a multisystem infmammatory disease of unknown
etiology, with the lungs and intrathoracic lymph nodes the most commonly
involved. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of
conventional transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) cytology in the
diagnosis of sarcoidosis presenting as mediastinal/hilar lymphadenopathy.
Methods. In this retrospective study, 58 patients with suspicion of stage I
and II sarcoidosis underwent first flexibile, and then, a rigid bronhoscopy,
during which TBNA of mediastinal or hilar lumph node with a 19 gauge (G)
needle was done. Material from the needle was put on glass slide and prepared
for the cytological and histopathological examination. Results. Out of 58
patients submitted to TBNA of mediastinal or hilar lymph nodes, adequate
material for cytological diagnostics was obtained in 53 (91.37%). Out of 53
adequate cytological samples, in 38 (71.69%) noncaseous granulomatous
inflammation (NGI) was found, while in corresponding histopathological
samples, NGI was found in 48 (90.56%), which was significantly higher (p <
0.05). Of cytological smears, out of the cell types typical for granulomatous
inflammation, in 26 (63.15%) patients the clusters of the epitheloid cells
were found, in 8 (21.05%) there were both, clusters of epitheloid cells and
giant multinuclear hystiocytes, and in 6 (15.76%) only single scattered
epitheloid cells or small clusters of several epitheloid cells were found.
The sensitivity of TBNA cytology in our group of patients with sarcoidosis
was 76%, specificity 100% and accuracy 77.34%. Conclusion. TBNA is an
efficient and safe procedure in the diagnosis of sarcoidosis, minimally
invasive and with a little risk of complications. Using 19 G needle enables
obtaining material for histological and cytological analyses, as well which
contribute to the sensitivity of diagnosting sarcoidosis. The value of this
type of diagnostics depends on qualification and experience both of
bronchoscopist and cytologist/pathologist, as well, of the interpreter of
such a material.
Powder cloud behavior in laser cladding using scanning optics
Authors: Pekkarinen J. , Salminen A. , Kujanpää V. , Ilonen Jarmo , Lensu Lasse , Kälviäinen Heikki
Published: April 2016

Powder feeding is one of the single most important parameters that defines a qualitative outcome of the cladding process. This study focuses on how powder feeding angle and powder carrying gas flow rate affect the powder cloud behavior in laser cladding with scanning optics. Focus of this study is to provide the knowledge on how scanned laser beam affects the powder cloud and what kind of phenomena can occur during cladding process. In this study, powder feeding angles from 40° to 70° were tested with powder feeding gas flow rates of 3 and 6 l/min and with laser scanning frequencies ranging from 80 to 150 Hz. Powder material used was 316L, and the substrate material was low alloyed steel. The results showed that the stability of the powder cloud was highly dependent on the tested parameters. At a steep powder feeding angle, the powder cloud under laser radiation was strongly vaporized, emitting bright visible light. However, at gently sloping powder feeding angle, the powder cloud behavior was more stable; i.e., less or no vaporization was noticed, and the emitted light was fainter. Also, a direct correlation between the vaporization of the powder cloud and the increase of dilution was noticed. It was determined to be a cause of vapor flow disturbing the powder feeding into the melt pool and thereby increasing dilution.
An experience at the epicenter: encounter with a traditional healer
Authors: Rijal Shristi , Neupane Dipika
Published: April 2016
Preparation and Quality Evaluation of Jamun (Syzygium cumini L) Wine
Authors: Dahal Dipal , Das Suman Kumar Lal
Published: April 2016

The study aims to determine the effect of various strength of juice content (100%, 75%, 50% and 25%) on the chemical and sensory qualities of the wines. Sensory analysis showed that there was no significant difference among all the products with respect to colour but showed significant difference with other respect. The product prepared from 50% juice content got the highest mean score in sensory analysis. Changing pattern of pH, total sugar, TSS and acidity in all fermentations were similar but differed significantly with respect to their changing values. The average pH, Total soluble solids (TSS- ºBx), alcohol content (% m/v), acidity (% citric acid), total sugar (% dextrose) of the best product i.e juice content of 75% were found to be 3.53, 10, 6, 0.82, 6.12 respectively. Wine made from other formulations (juice content) were significantly different (at 5% level of significance) from the best formulation with respect to TSS, alcohol content, total sugar and pH but showed similarities with the product made from 100% juice content in respect of acidity. Fermentation mash containing 50% juice content, 50% water, 20ºBx TSS, and 3.4 pH was found to be optimum for wine preparation using wine yeast at ambient temperature. The optimized recipes were cost effective over other tested variations.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):17-22
Evaluation of Microbiological Quality of Indigenous Dahi from Eastern Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Rewati Raman , Das Suman Kumar Lal
Published: April 2016

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the microbiological quality of indigenous dahi from eastern Nepal. Atotal of 39 indigenous dahi samples were collected from sixteen districts of eastern Nepal and analyzed. Results revealed the mean yeasts and mould count to be 20.5×104±7503, coliform count 65±42, S. aureus 197±65 and total viable bacterial count 227×106±17250 cfu/g. Total viable bacteria and yeasts and moulds were present in all samples examined. Coliforms were present in 90 % and S. aureus were present in 63% of samples examined whereas salmonella species were not detected in any of the samples under study.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):23-26
Optimization of Processing Parameters and Extension of Shelf Life of ‘Quark’-A Type of Thick Yoghurt
Authors: Yadav Ram Shovit
Published: April 2016

Quark was prepared from cow milk by the optimization of different parameters like concentration of rennet, sugar percentage and flavor types. The rennet concentration used for optimization was 0.00139 %, 0.00234 %, 0.00278 % and 0.00468 %. In terms of acidity, texture, flavor and appearance. 0.00234 percent rennet was found significantly best product. The concentration of sugar in quark was varied in different proportion viz. 2, 4 and 5 %, among these 4 % was ranked best with respect to sensory properties. Flavor optimization with vanilla 125ppm without color addition was preferred significantly. Though the high quality life (HQL) of the optimized product was 45 days in deep frozen condition (-20°C), 6 days in refrigerated condition (-4°C). Yet, the product remained acceptable up to 2 days at room temperature (33 ± 2°C) and up to 15 days in refrigerated condition.Sunsari Technical College Journal 2015, 2(1):38-43
Welding parameters and joint strength optimization during friction stir welding of high density polyethylene (HDPE) using the Taguchi method
Authors: Ülker Aydın , Sayer Sami , Ceyhun Vural
Published: April 2016

The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of important process parameters and tool parameters on joint strength in fiction stir welding process of high density polyethylene (HDPE) using the Taguchi experimental design method. The tool rotation, feed rate and tool shoulder diameter were considered as varying parameter and used to fabricate the joints. The quality of the joint was evaluated by examining the characteristics of the joint as a result of ultimate tensile strength. For friction stir welding of the plates, the experiments were arranged by using Taguchi's L9 orthogonal array in randomized way. From the analysis of variance and the signal-to-noise response graphs, the significant parameters and the optimal combination level of the parameters were obtained. It was found that using a tool rotation of 1600 rpm, a feed rate of 20 mm·mm−1 and a shoulder diameter of 20 mm, an improved joint strength can be obtained. A confirmation run is also performed to prove the effectiveness of the Taguchi method. The results show that joint strength was improved by about 25% compared with the initial welding parameters.
Effect of Peierls stress and strain-hardening parameters on EMR emission in metals and alloys during progressive plastic deformation
Authors: Kothari Anmol , Chauhan Vishal S. , Kumar Amit , Kumar Rajeev , Vaish Rahul , Abbas Syed
Published: April 2016

The article deals with the development of a theoretical model to predict the nature (amplitude and shape) of deformation-induced electromagnetic radiation (EMR) in metals and alloys during progressive plastic deformation. The model explicitly embraces the effect of Peierls stress and strain hardening to envisage the nature of EMR in materials with relatively large Peierls stress. The theoretical results were evaluated for 0.15 % plain carbon steel and compared with experimental results. The signals obtained from the model were found to be exponential in shape and are in good agreement with the experimental observations. The results suggest that inclusion of strain hardening parameters in the earlier model is necessary for determining deformation induced EMR in bcc metals and alloys during progressive plastic deformation.
Fine Filament Formation Behavior of Polymethylpentene and Polypropylene near Spinneret in Melt Blowing Process
Authors: Ruamsuk R. , Takarada W. , Kikutani T.
Published: April 2016

Formation behavior of fine fibers of polymethylpentene (PMP) and polypropylene (PP) in the melt blowing process was investigated through the observation of the spin-line near the spinning nozzle using a high speed camera. Reduction of the polymer throughput rate and increase of the air flow rate were necessary to achieve fine diameter fibers, however these conditions generally cause the instability in the spinning process. Observation of the spin-line at the melt blowing die revealed the periodic accumulation of polymer flow near the spinning nozzle followed by the quick pulling down of the accumulated polymer by the air flow. This behavior caused the periodic fluctuation of fiber diameter as well as the intermittent breakage of the spin-line under extreme conditions. Because of high extrusion viscosity, PMP showed more stable spinning behavior than PP. Frequency of diameter fluctuation became higher with the increases of air flow rate and throughput rate, and the maximum frequency of about 60 Hz was observed for PP spinning with the throughput rate of 0.18 g/min. Diameter distribution of the fibers in the prepared web was also analyzed to compare with the spinning behavior. Fiber diameter distributions were narrow and symmetric under stable spinning conditions, whereas skewed diameter profiles with a maximum at low value and a long tail to the larger diameter region were observed under unstable conditions. Intermittent spin-line breakage caused flaws of “shot” and/or “fly”, and the skewed fiber diameter distribution with the presence of a small amount of fiber of extremely large diameter was confirmed.
Using Analytic Morphomics to Understand Short-Term Convalescence after Radical Cystectomy
Authors: Luckenbaugh Amy N. , Hollenbeck Brent K. , Montgomery Jeffrey S. , Lee Cheryl T. , Gilbert Scott M. , Dunn Rodney L. , Friedman Jeffrey F. , Englesbe Michael J. , Wang Stewart C. , Hollingsworth John M.
Published: April 2016

Background: Data from the general surgery literature suggests that patient morphometric data obtained from preoperative imaging may help predict a patient’s risk around surgery.

Objectives: In this context, we evaluated for associations between psoas muscle area and short-term convalescence following radical cystectomy.

Methods: After identifying patients who underwent radical cystectomy at our institution (2008 to 2013), we calculated their psoas muscle area from staging computed tomography scans using established analytic morphomic techniques. We then determined early recovery among patients with high and low psoas muscle area using the validated Convalescence and Recovery Evaluation (CARE) questionnaire—a 27-item survey, divided into four domains (activity, cognitive, gastrointestinal, and pain recovery). Finally, we assessed the relationship between psoas muscle area and changes in CARE scores with nested linear regression models.

Results: Among the 86 men and among 31 women in our cohort, the median total psoas muscle area was 2,544 mm2 and 1,511 mm2, respectively ( P <  0.001 for the comparison). While there was no association between psoas muscle area and recovery in men, women with higher (versus lower) total psoas muscle area had smaller decreases in their pain scores postoperatively and a quicker return to their baseline level ( P = 0.05). Activity scores also approached baseline levels faster among women with higher psoas muscle area, although this finding did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions: Psoas muscle area is potentially an important preoperative predictor of recovery for women undergoingradical cystectomy. More broadly speaking, analytic morphomics may represent a novel approach to better understand perioperative risk.
Effects of Androgen and Estrogen Receptor Signaling Pathways on Bladder Cancer Initiation and Progression
Authors: Godoy Guilherme , Gakis Georgios , Smith Carolyn L. , Fahmy Omar
Published: April 2016

Epidemiologic studies have long demonstrated clear differences in incidence and progression of bladder cancer between genders suggesting that the mechanisms of development and progression in these tumors have a strong association with steroid hormonal pathways. Such observations led to preclinical studies investigating the role of androgen and estrogen receptors, as well as their cognate hormones in bladder cancer initiation and progression. Using various in vitro cell line assays and in vivo mouse models, studies have elucidated different mechanisms and signaling pathways through which these steroid receptors may participate in this disease. More recently, RNA expression data from multiple studies revealed a luminal subtype of bladder cancer that exhibited an estrogen receptor signaling pathway, making it a strong candidate for further consideration of targeted therapies in the future. Despite the promising preclinical data demonstrating potential roles for both antiandrogen and antiestrogen strategies targeting these pathways in different stages of bladder cancer, only two clinical trials are currently active and accruing patients for such clinical studies. Targeted therapies in bladder cancer are a large unmet need and have the potential to change treatment paradigms and improve oncological outcomes of patients with bladder cancer.
Summary and Recommendations from the National Cancer Institute’s Clinical Trials Planning Meeting on Novel Therapeutics for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Lerner Seth P. , Bajorin Dean F. , Dinney Colin P. , Efstathiou Jason A. , Groshen Susan , Hahn Noah M. , Hansel Donna , Kwiatkowski David , O’Donnell Michael , Rosenberg Jonathan , Svatek Robert , Abrams Jeffrey S. , Al-Ahmadie Hikmat , Apolo Andrea B. , Bellmunt Joaquim , Callahan Margaret , Cha Eugene K. , Drake Charles , Jarow Jonathan , Kamat Ashish , Kim William , Knowles Margaret , Mann Bhupinder , Marchionni Luigi , McConkey David , McShane Lisa , Ramirez Nilsa , Sharabi Andrew , Sharpe Arlene H. , Solit David , Tangen Catherine M. , Amiri Abdul Tawab , Van Allen Eliezer , West Pamela J. , Witjes J. A. , Quale Diane Zipursky
Published: April 2016

The NCI Bladder Cancer Task Force convened a Clinical Trials Planning Meeting (CTPM) Workshop focused on Novel Therapeutics for Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC). Meeting attendees included a broad and multi-disciplinary group of clinical and research stakeholders and included leaders from NCI, FDA, National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), advocacy and the pharmaceutical and biotech industry. The meeting goals and objectives were to: 1) create a collaborative environment in which the greater bladder research community can pursue future optimally designed novel clinical trials focused on the theme of molecular targeted and immune-based therapies in NMIBC; 2) frame the clinical and translational questions that are of highest priority; and 3) develop two clinical trial designs focusing on immunotherapy and molecular targeted therapy. Despite successful development and implementation of large Phase II and Phase III trials in bladder and upper urinary tract cancers, there are no active and accruing trials in the NMIBC space within the NCTN. Disappointingly, there has been only one new FDA approved drug (Valrubicin) in any bladder cancer disease state since 1998. Although genomic-based data for bladder cancer are increasingly available, translating these discoveries into practice changing treatment is still to come. Recently, major efforts in defining the genomic characteristics of NMIBC have been achieved. Aligned with these data is the growing number of targeted therapy agents approved and/or in development in other organ site cancers and the multiple similarities of bladder cancer with molecular subtypes in these other cancers. Additionally, although bladder cancer is one of the more immunogenic tumors, some tumors have the ability to attenuate or eliminate host immune responses. Two trial concepts emerged from the meeting including a window of opportunity trial (Phase 0) testing an FGFR3 inhibitor and a second multi-arm multi-stage trial testing combinations of BCG or radiotherapy and immunomodulatory agents in patients who recur after induction BCG (BCG failure).
Collaborating to Move Research Forward: Proceedings of the 10th Annual Bladder Cancer Think Tank
Authors: Kamat Ashish M. , Agarwal Piyush , Bivalacqua Trinity , Chisolm Stephanie , Daneshmand Sia , Doroshow James H. , Efstathiou Jason A. , Galsky Matthew , Iyer Gopa , Kassouf Wassim , Shah Jay , Taylor John , Williams Stephen B. , Quale Diane Zipursky , Rosenberg Jonathan E.
Published: April 2016

The 10th Annual Bladder Cancer Think Tank was hosted by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network and brought together a multidisciplinary group of clinicians, researchers, representatives and Industry to advance bladder cancer research efforts. Think Tank expert panels, group discussions, and networking opportunities helped generate ideas and strengthen collaborations between researchers and physicians across disciplines and between institutions. Interactive panel discussions addressed a variety of timely issues: 1) data sharing, privacy and social media; 2) improving patient navigation through therapy; 3) promising developments in immunotherapy; 4) and moving bladder cancer research from bench to bedside. Lastly, early career researchers presented their bladder cancer studies and had opportunities to network with leading experts.
Breakfast and Other Meal Consumption in Adolescents from Southern Poland
Authors: Ostachowska-Gasior Agnieszka , Piwowar Monika , Kwiatkowski Jacek , Kasperczyk Janusz , Skop-Lewandowska Agata
Published: April 2016

The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of breakfast and other meal consumption by adolescents and to assess the relationship between the first and the last meal consumption and sex, body mass index (BMI), and middle school and high school students’ education level. The study was conducted in 2013–2014 among 3009 students (1658 girls and 1351 boys) from middle s and high schools in Krakow and Silesia (Poland). The data was obtained from questionnaires that were analyzed with a logistic regression model for measurable and dichotomous variables. Breakfast consumers were seen to eat other meals (second breakfast, lunch, dessert, supper) significantly more often than breakfast skippers. The main meal consumption habits depend on sex and change as adolescents age. Being a girl and a high school student predisposed participants to skip breakfast and supper more often. The BMI of breakfast consumers does not differ significantly from the BMI of breakfast skippers, so BMI might thus not be a sufficient marker of breakfast consumption regularity and dietary habits in an adolescent group. The importance of regularly eaten meals, especially breakfast, together with adequate daily dietary energy intake are beneficial for physical and psychological development and cannot be overestimated in nutritional education and it is necessary to promote healthy eating behavior for well-being in later adult life.
Transient Biocompatible Polymeric Platforms for Long-Term Controlled Release of Therapeutic Proteins and Vaccines
Authors: Acar Handan , Banerjee Saikat , Shi Heliang , Jamshidi Reihaneh , Hashemi Nastaran , Cho Michael , Montazami Reza
Published: April 2016

Polymer-based interpenetrating networks (IPNs) with controllable and programmable degradation and release kinetics enable unique opportunities for physisorption and controlled release of therapeutic proteins or vaccines while their chemical and structural integrities are conserved. This paper presents materials, a simple preparation method, and release kinetics of a series of long-term programmable, biocompatible, and biodegradable polymer-based IPN controlled release platforms. Release kinetics of the gp41 protein was controlled over a 30-day period via tuning and altering the chemical structure of the IPN platforms. Post-release analysis confirmed structural conservation of the gp41 protein throughout the process. Cell viability assay confirmed biocompatibility and non-cytotoxicity of the IPNs.
Synthesis and Characterization of Gd2O3 Hollow Microspheres Using a Template-Directed Method
Authors: Jiang Xueliang , Yu Lu , Yao Chu , Zhang Fuqing , Zhang Jiao , Li Chenjian
Published: April 2016

Uniform rare-earth gadolinium oxide (Gd2O3) hollow microspheres, as formed through a urea-assisted homogenous precipitation process using carbon spheres as a template and a subsequent heat treatment, were characterized by using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformed infared spectroscopy, thermogravimetry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Brunauer-Emmett-Tellet surface area measurement. The results indicate that the final products can be indexed to a cubic Gd2O3 phase with high purity and have a uniform morphology at 500 nm in diameter and 20 nm in shell thickness. The as-synthesized Gd2O3 hollow microspheres exhibited a superior photooxidation activity to that of Gd2O3 powder and an effect similar to P25, significantly broadening the potential of Gd2O3 hollow microspheres for many practical applications.
Chemical Composition, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of the Volatile Oil of Ganoderma pfeifferi Bres
Authors: Al-Fatimi Mohamed , Wurster Martina , Lindequist Ulrike
Published: April 2016

In a first study of the volatile oil of the mushroom basidiomycete Ganoderma pfeifferi Bres., the chemical composition and antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the oil were investigated. The volatile oil was obtained from the fresh fruiting bodies of Ganoderma pfeifferi Bres. By hydrodistillation extraction and analyzed by GC-MS. The antimicrobial activity of the oil was evaluated against five bacteria strains and two types of fungi strains, using disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods. In addition, the antioxidant activity of the oil was determined using DPPH assay. Four volatile compounds representing 90.5% of the total oil were identified. The majority of the essential oil was dominated by 1-octen-3-ol (amyl vinyl carbinol) 1 (73.6%) followed by 1-octen-3-ol acetate 2 (12.4%), phenylacetaldehyde 3 (3.0%) and 6-camphenol 4 (1.5%). The results showed that the Gram-positive bacteria species are more sensitive to the essential oil than Gram-negative bacteria. The oil showed strong antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus as well as Candida albicans. Moreover, the oil exhibited strong radical scavenging activity in the DPPH assay. This first report on the chemical composition and biological properties of G. pfeifferi volatile oil makes its pharmaceutical uses rational and provides a basis in the biological and phytochemical investigations of the volatile oils of Ganodermataceae species.
Nerolidol: A Sesquiterpene Alcohol with Multi-Faceted Pharmacological and Biological Activities
Authors: Chan Weng-Keong , Tan Loh , Chan Kok-Gan , Lee Learn-Han , Goh Bey-Hing
Published: April 2016

Nerolidol (3,7,11-trimethyl-1,6,10-dodecatrien-3-ol) is a naturally occurring sesquiterpene alcohol that is present in various plants with a floral odor. It is synthesized as an intermediate in the production of (3E)-4,8-dimethy-1,3,7-nonatriene (DMNT), a herbivore-induced volatile that protects plants from herbivore damage. Chemically, nerolidol exists in two geometric isomers, a trans and a cis form. The usage of nerolidol is widespread across different industries. It has been widely used in cosmetics (e.g., shampoos and perfumes) and in non-cosmetic products (e.g., detergents and cleansers). In fact, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also permitted the use of nerolidol as a food flavoring agent. The fact that nerolidol is a common ingredient in many products has attracted researchers to explore more medicinal properties of nerolidol that may exert beneficial effect on human health. Therefore, the aim of this review is to compile and consolidate the data on the various pharmacological and biological activities displayed by nerolidol. Furthermore, this review also includes pharmacokinetic and toxicological studies of nerolidol. In summary, the various pharmacological and biological activities demonstrated in this review highlight the prospects of nerolidol as a promising chemical or drug candidate in the field of agriculture and medicine.
Anti-Cancer Activity of Solanum nigrum (AESN) through Suppression of Mitochondrial Function and Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Lai Ying-Jang , Tai Chen-Jei , Wang Chia-Woei , Choong Chen-Yen , Lee Bao-Hong , Shi Yeu-Ching , Tai Cheng-Jeng
Published: April 2016

Chemotherapy is the main approach for treating advanced and recurrent carcinoma, but the clinical performance of chemotherapy is limited by relatively low response rates, drug resistance, and adverse effects that severely affect the quality of life of patients. An association between epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and chemotherapy resistance has been investigated in recent studies. Our recent studies have found that the aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum (AESN) is a crucial ingredient in some traditional Chinese medicine formulas for treating various types of cancer patients and exhibits antitumor effects. We evaluated the suppression of EMT in MCF-7 breast cancer cells treated with AESN. The mitochondrial morphology was investigated using Mitotracker Deep-Red FM stain. Our results indicated that AESN markedly inhibited cell viability of MCF-7 breast cancer cells through apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest mediated by activation of caspase-3 and production of reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, mitochondrial fission was observed in MCF-7 breast cancer cells treated with AESN. In addition to elevation of E-cadherin, downregulations of ZEB1, N-cadherin, and vimentin were found in AESN-treated MCF-7 breast cancer cells. These results suggested that AESN could inhibit EMT of MCF-7 breast cancer cells mediated by attenuation of mitochondrial function. AESN could be potentially beneficial in treating breast cancer cells, and may be of interest for future studies in developing integrative cancer therapy against proliferation, metastasis, and migration of breast cancer cells.
Thermal Hazard Evaluation of Cumene Hydroperoxide-Metal Ion Mixture Using DSC, TAM III, and GC/MS
Authors: You Mei-Li
Published: April 2016

Cumene hydroperoxide (CHP) is widely used in chemical processes, mainly as an initiator for the polymerization of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene. It is a typical organic peroxide and an explosive substance. It is susceptible to thermal decomposition and is readily affected by contamination; moreover, it has high thermal sensitivity. The reactor tank, transit storage vessel, and pipeline used for manufacturing and transporting this substance are made of metal. Metal containers used in chemical processes can be damaged through aging, wear, erosion, and corrosion; furthermore, the containers might release metal ions. In a metal pipeline, CHP may cause incompatibility reactions because of catalyzed exothermic reactions. This paper discusses and elucidates the potential thermal hazard of a mixture of CHP and an incompatible material’s metal ions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermal activity monitor III (TAM III) were employed to preliminarily explore and narrate the thermal hazard at the constant temperature environment. The substance was diluted and analyzed by using a gas chromatography spectrometer (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometer (GC/MS) to determine the effect of thermal cracking and metal ions of CHP. The thermokinetic parameter values obtained from the experiments are discussed; the results can be used for designing an inherently safer process. As a result, the paper finds that the most hazards are in the reaction of CHP with Fe2+. When the metal release is exothermic in advance, the system temperature increases, even leading to uncontrollable levels, and the process may slip out of control.
Interaction of Di-2-pyridylketone 2-pyridine Carboxylic Acid Hydrazone and Its Copper Complex with BSA: Effect on Antitumor Activity as Revealed by Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Li Cuiping , Huang Tengfei , Fu Yun , Liu Youxun , Zhou Sufeng , Qi Zhangyang , Li Changzheng
Published: April 2016

The drug, di-2-pyridylketone-2-pyridine carboxylic acid hydrazone (DPPCAH) and its copper complex (DPPCAH-Cu) exhibit significant antitumor activity. However, the mechanism of their pharmacological interaction with the biological molecule bovine serum albumin (BSA) remains poorly understood. The present study elucidates the interactions between the drug and BSA through MTT assays, spectroscopic methods and molecular docking analysis. Our results indicate that BSA could attenuate effect on the cytotoxicity of DPPCAH, but not DPPCAH-Cu. Data from fluorescence quenching measurements demonstrated that both DPPCAH and DPPCAH-Cu could bind to BSA, with a reversed effect on the environment of tryptophan residues in polarity. CD spectra revealed that the DPPCAH-Cu exerted a slightly stronger effect on the secondary structure of BSA than DPPCAH. The association constant of DPPCAH with BSA was greater than that of DPPCAH-Cu. Docking studies indicated that the binding of DPPCAH to BSA involved a greater number of hydrogen bonds compared to DPPCAH-Cu. The calculated distances between bound ligands and tryptophans in BSA were in agreement with fluorescence resonance energy transfer results. Thus, the binding affinity of the drug (DPPCAH or DPPCAH-Cu) with BSA partially contributes to its antitumor activity; the greater the drug affinity is to BSA, the less is its antitumor activity.
Mixture of Peanut Skin Extract and Fish Oil Improves Memory in Mice via Modulation of Anti-Oxidative Stress and Regulation of BDNF/ERK/CREB Signaling Pathways
Authors: Xiang Lan , Cao Xue-Li , Xing Tian-Yan , Mori Daisuke , Tang Rui-Qi , Li Jing , Gao Li-Juan , Qi Jian-Hua
Published: April 2016

Long-term use of fish oil (FO) is known to induce oxidative stress and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease in humans. In the present study, peanut skin extract (PSE), which has strong antioxidant capacity, was mixed with FO to reduce its side effects while maintaining its beneficial properties. Twelve-week Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were used to conduct animal behavior tests in order to evaluate the memory-enhancing ability of the mixture of peanut skin extract and fish oil (MPF). MPF significantly increased alternations in the Y-maze and cognitive index in the novel object recognition test. MPF also improved performance in the water maze test. We further sought to understand the mechanisms underlying these effects. A significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and an increase in malonyldialdehyde (MDA) in plasma were observed in the FO group. The MPF group showed reduced MDA level and increased SOD activity in the plasma, cortex and hippocampus. Furthermore, the gene expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cAMP responsive element-binding protein (CREB) in the hippocampus were increased in the MPF group, while phosphorylation of protein kinase B (AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and CREB in the hippocampus were enhanced. MPF improves memory in mice via modulation of anti-oxidative stress and activation of BDNF/ERK/CREB signaling pathways.
Waterfowl endozoochory: An overlooked long‐distance dispersal mode for Cuscuta (dodder)
Authors: Costea Mihai , Stefanović Saša , García Miguel A. , De La Cruz Susan , Casazza Michael L. , Green Andy J.
Published: April 2016

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Dispersal of parasitic Cuscuta species (dodders) worldwide has been assumed to be largely anthropomorphic because their seeds do not match any previously known dispersal syndrome and no natural dispersal vectors have been reliably documented. However, the genus has a subcosmopolitan distribution and recent phylogeographic results have indicated that at least18 historical cases of long‐distance dispersal (LDD) have occurred during its evolution. The objective of this study is to report the first LDD biological vector for Cuscuta seeds.

METHODS:

Twelve northern pintails (Anas acuta) were collected from Suisun Marsh, California and the contents of their lowest part of the large intestine (rectum) were extracted and analyzed. Seed identification was done both morphologically and using a molecular approach. Extracted seeds were tested for germination and compared to seeds not subjected to gut passage to determine the extent of structural changes caused to the seed coat by passing through the digestive tract.

KEY RESULTS:

Four hundred and twenty dodder seeds were found in the rectum of four northern pintails. From these, 411 seeds were identified as Cuscuta campestris and nine as most likely C. pacifica. The germination rate of C. campestris seeds after gut passage was 55%. Structural changes caused by the gut passage in both species were similar to those caused by an acid scarification.

CONCLUSIONS:

Endozoochory by waterbirds may explain the historical LDD cases in the evolution of Cuscuta. This also suggests that current border quarantine measures may be insufficient to stopping spreading of dodder pests along migratory flyways.
ANALYSIS OF STRAIN STATE AND CRACKING OF COCNRETE SLEEPERS
Authors: JOKŪBAITIS Aidas , VALIVONIS Juozas , MARČIUKAITIS Gediminas
Published: April 2016

Prestressed concrete sleepers are the most common type of the sleepers used on the railroad. They serve as rail supports and absorb loads induced by trains. Sleepers are important for the durability and safety of the railroad and are exposed to various loads and an agressive environment during exploitation. Therefore, different types of appearing damage can determine their reliability. The article briefly discusses possible causes of damage and the deterioration of prestressed concrete sleepers. End cracking and damage at the rail seat was determined during the inspection of used sleepers. Therefore, the strain state and cracking of the rail seat of the sleeper was analysed under static and dynamic loads. The paper provides the obtained results of experimental research of used and new sleepers.
Shiga toxin-producing E. coli isolated from sheep in Namibia
Authors: Madzingira Oscar
Published: April 2016

Introduction: Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) are an important group of emerging zoonotic pathogens carried in the intestinal tracts of ruminants. They can cause mild diarrhea and fatal disease characterized by hemolytic uremic syndrome, especially in children, the elderly, and immune-compromised individuals. Methodology: The aim of this study was to determine if sheep harbor STEC. Sheep feces (n = 40), brisket wool (n = 40), and 150 meat samples were collected from the flank (n = 35), rump (n = 35), brisket (n = 20), shank (n = 25), diaphragm (n = 10), and neck (n = 25) of slaughter-age sheep at a high-throughput abattoir and tested for STEC using a combination of culture and real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques. Results: E. coli O103 (5/40) and O145 (5/40) strains were isolated from the feces and E. coli O157:H7 was isolated from brisket wool (10/40) and flank meat (5/35). The results of this study provide the first report of STEC infections in sheep in Namibia. Conclusions: The results of this study show that sheep, like cattle, can shed STEC strains in their feces, which can contaminate meat and expose humans to infections.
Dissemination and evolution of blaOXA-23 gene among carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from central China
Authors: Guo Xiaobing , Cao Zaiqiu , Zhang Zhijian
Published: April 2016

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Corporaciones y tribunales mercantiles entre Toscana y Cataluña en torno al siglo XIV
Authors: Soldani Maria Elisa , Tanzini Lorenzo
Published: April 2016

Durante la baja Edad Media, las instituciones de auto-organización mercantil, así como la destacada actuación social y política que desarrollaron los mercaderes asentados en los principales centros urbanos de negociación, representan un elemento común tanto en el ámbito italiano como en el área de la Corona de Aragón. Estas instituciones, caracterizadas por tener implicaciones tanto políticas como judiciales al ser tribunales destinados a las causas mercantiles, acabarán planteando relaciones problemáticas con los centros decisorios y las sedes jurisdiccionales ordinarias. El objetivo de este trabajo es abordar, desde el análisis comparativo, las características esenciales del devenir histórico de estas instituciones tomando como referencia los ejemplos de las ciudades toscanas y catalanas. A partir del estudio del nacimiento y el desarrollo de las instituciones municipales y mercantiles de estos dos observatorios, lo que aquí se propone es ofrecer una clave interpretativa que permita destacar las peculiaridades de ambos contextos, incidiendo en las influencias diferenciadas que llegaron a tener tanto el derecho romano como las instituciones monárquicas en vías de consolidación.
A Performance Evaluation of a Multi-Agent Mobile Learning System
Authors: Udanor Collins N , Oparaku Ogbonna U.
Published: April 2016

Mobile devices have emerged as our daily companion whose applicability evolves as the day unfolds. One of such applications is in the area of learning, called mobile learning (M-learning). However, as with all new technologies, M-learning is faced with the issues of standard, content packing, and deployment. And like other distributed applications on ubiquitous networks, M-learning is challenged with performance issues. This work shows the implementation and evaluation of a model for intelligent mobile learning system (IMLS) using a multi-agent system (MAS), such as the Java Agent Development Environment (JADE) framework. Two M-learning applications (agent-based and non-agent) were developed, deployed and tested. The agent-based application is deployed using an HTTP-based Message Transfer Protocol (MTP). The results suggest that agents can increase the performance of an M-learning application up to eight times.
Predictive Modelling of Mobile Marketing Usage among Generation Y: A Preliminary Survey
Authors: Ismail Mohammad , Razak Razli Che , Yaakob Mohd Rafi , Zakaria Mohd Nazri , Hanum Nadia , Luqman Azyanee
Published: April 2016

This preliminary analysis examines mobile marketing usage among Generation Y. This study investigates the level of mobile marketing usage among Gen Y and to identify the relationships between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control, perceived risk, behavioural intention and actual usage. This study utilizes self-administered survey questionnaires by using 115 students from University Malaysia Kelantan. Overall, the results provides verification of a positive relationship between the constructs of attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control and perceived risk on intention to use mobile marketing services.