bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Administration of Protocatechuic Acid Reduces Traumatic Brain Injury-Induced Neuronal Death
Authors: Lee Sang Hwon , Choi Bo Young , Lee Song Hee , Kho A. Ra , Jeong Jeong Hyun , Hong Dae Ki , Suh Sang Won
Published: November 2017

Protocatechuic acid (PCA) was first purified from green tea and has shown numerous biological activities, including anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-atherosclerotic effects. The effect of PCA on traumatic brain injury (TBI)-induced neuronal death has not previously been evaluated. TBI is defined as damage to the brain resulting from external mechanical force, such as rapid acceleration or deceleration, impact, blast waves, or penetration by a projectile. TBI causes neuronal death in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. The present study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of PCA on TBI-induced neuronal death. Here, TBI was induced by a controlled cortical impact model using rats. PCA (30 mg/kg) was injected into the intraperitoneal (ip) space immediately after TBI. Neuronal death was evaluated with Fluoro Jade-B (FJB) staining at 24 h after TBI. Oxidative injury was detected by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4HNE), glutathione (GSH) concentration was analyzed by glutathione adduct with N-ethylmaleimide (GS-NEM) staining at 24 h after TBI, and microglial activation in the hippocampus was detected by CD11b immunohistochemistry at one week after TBI. We found that the proportion of degenerating neurons, oxidative injury, GSH depletion, and microglia activation in the hippocampus and cortex were all reduced by PCA treatment following TBI. Therefore, our study suggests that PCA may have therapeutic potential in preventing TBI-induced neuronal death.
Enhancement of Osteoblastic-Like Cell Activity by Glow Discharge Plasma Surface Modified Hydroxyapatite/β-Tricalcium Phosphate Bone Substitute
Authors: Salamanca Eisner , Pan Yu-Hwa , Tsai Aileen , Lin Pei-Ying , Lin Ching-Kai , Huang Haw-Ming , Teng Nai-Chia , Wang Peter , Chang Wei-Jen
Published: November 2017

Glow discharge plasma (GDP) treatments of biomaterials, such as hydroxyapatite/β-tricalcium phosphate (HA/β-TCP) composites, produce surfaces with fewer contaminants and may facilitate cell attachment and enhance bone regeneration. Thus, in this study we used argon glow discharge plasma (Ar-GDP) treatments to modify HA/β-TCP particle surfaces and investigated the physical and chemical properties of the resulting particles (HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP). The HA/β-TCP particles were treated with GDP for 15 min in argon gas at room temperature under the following conditions: power: 80 W; frequency: 13.56 MHz; pressure: 100 mTorr. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations showed similar rough surfaces of HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP HA/β-TCP particles, and energy dispersive spectrometry analyses showed that HA/β-TCP surfaces had more contaminants than HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP surfaces. Ca/P mole ratios in HA/β-TCP and HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP were 1.34 and 1.58, respectively. Both biomaterials presented maximal intensities of X-ray diffraction patterns at 27° with 600 a.u. At 25° and 40°, HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP and HA/β-TCP particles had peaks of 200 a.u., which are similar to XRD intensities of human bone. In subsequent comparisons, MG-63 cell viability and differentiation into osteoblast-like cells were assessed on HA/β-TCP and HA/β-TCP + Ar-GDP surfaces, and Ar-GDP treatments led to improved cell growth and alkaline phosphatase activities. The present data indicate that GDP surface treatment modified HA/β-TCP surfaces by eliminating contaminants, and the resulting graft material enhanced bone regeneration.
Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Hydrogels Containing Metal Ions and Metals/Metal Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Wahid Fazli , Zhong Cheng , Wang Hai-Song , Hu Xiao-Hui , Chu Li-Qiang
Published: November 2017

Recently, the rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens has caused a serious health problem. Scientists respond to the threat by developing new antimicrobial materials to prevent or control infections caused by these pathogens. Polymer-based nanocomposite hydrogels are versatile materials as an alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents. Cross-linking of polymeric materials by metal ions or the combination of polymeric hydrogels with nanoparticles (metals and metal oxide) is a simple and effective approach for obtaining a multicomponent system with diverse functionalities. Several metals and metal oxides such as silver (Ag), gold (Au), zinc oxide (ZnO), copper oxide (CuO), titanium dioxide (TiO2) and magnesium oxide (MgO) have been loaded into hydrogels for antimicrobial applications. The incorporation of metals and metal oxide nanoparticles into hydrogels not only enhances the antimicrobial activity of hydrogels, but also improve their mechanical characteristics. Herein, we summarize recent advances in hydrogels containing metal ions, metals and metal oxide nanoparticles with potential antimicrobial properties.
Designing and Testing a UAV Mapping System for Agricultural Field Surveying
Authors: Christiansen Martin , Laursen Morten , Jørgensen Rasmus , Skovsen Søren , Gislum René
Published: November 2017

A Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensor mounted on an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) can map the overflown environment in point clouds. Mapped canopy heights allow for the estimation of crop biomass in agriculture. The work presented in this paper contributes to sensory UAV setup design for mapping and textual analysis of agricultural fields. LiDAR data are combined with data from Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) sensors to conduct environment mapping for point clouds. The proposed method facilitates LiDAR recordings in an experimental winter wheat field. Crop height estimates ranging from 0.35–0.58 m are correlated to the applied nitrogen treatments of 0–300 kg N ha . The LiDAR point clouds are recorded, mapped, and analysed using the functionalities of the Robot Operating System (ROS) and the Point Cloud Library (PCL). Crop volume estimation is based on a voxel grid with a spatial resolution of 0.04 × 0.04 × 0.001 m. Two different flight patterns are evaluated at an altitude of 6 m to determine the impacts of the mapped LiDAR measurements on crop volume estimations.
Statistical Analysis of the Random Telegraph Noise in a 1.1 μm Pixel, 8.3 MP CMOS Image Sensor Using On-Chip Time Constant Extraction Method
Authors: Chao Calvin , Tu Honyih , Wu Thomas , Chou Kuo-Yu , Yeh Shang-Fu , Yin Chin , Lee Chih-Lin
Published: November 2017

A study of the random telegraph noise (RTN) of a 1.1 μm pitch, 8.3 Mpixel CMOS image sensor (CIS) fabricated in a 45 nm backside-illumination (BSI) technology is presented in this paper. A noise decomposition scheme is used to pinpoint the noise source. The long tail of the random noise (RN) distribution is directly linked to the RTN from the pixel source follower (SF). The full 8.3 Mpixels are classified into four categories according to the observed RTN histogram peaks. A theoretical formula describing the RTN as a function of the time difference between the two phases of the correlated double sampling (CDS) is derived and validated by measured data. An on-chip time constant extraction method is developed and applied to the RTN analysis. The effects of readout circuit bandwidth on the settling ratios of the RTN histograms are investigated and successfully accounted for in a simulation using a RTN behavior model.
Experimental Investigation on the Detection of Multiple Surface Cracks Using Vibrothermography with a Low-Power Piezoceramic Actuator
Authors: Xu Changhang , Xie Jing , Zhang Wuyang , Kong Qingzhao , Chen Guoming , Song Gangbing
Published: November 2017

Vibrothermography often employs a high-power actuator to generate heat on a specimen to reveal damage, however, the high-power actuator brings inconvenience to the application and possibly introduces additional damage to the inspected objects. This study uses a low-power piezoceramic transducer as the actuator of vibrothermography and explores its ability to detect multiple surface cracks in a metal part. Experiments were conducted on a thin aluminum beam with three cracks in different orientations. Detailed analyses of both thermograms and temperature data are presented to validate the proposed vibrothermography method. To further investigate the performance of the proposed vibrothermography method, we experimentally studied the effects of several critical factors, including the amplitude of excitation signal, specimen constraints, relative position between the transducer and cracks (the transducer is mounted on the same or the opposite side with the cracks). The results demonstrate that all cracks can be detected conveniently and simultaneously by using the proposed low-power vibrothermography. We also found that the magnitude of excitation signal and the specimen constraints have a great influence on detection results. Combined with effective data processing methods, such as Fourier transformation employed in this study, the proposed method provides a promising potential to detect multiple cracks on a metal surface in a safe and effective manner.
FTUC: A Flooding Tree Uneven Clustering Protocol for a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: He Wei , Pillement Sebastien , Xu Du
Published: November 2017

Clustering is an efficient approach in a wireless sensor network (WSN) to reduce the energy consumption of nodes and to extend the lifetime of the network. Unfortunately, this approach requires that all cluster heads (CHs) transmit their data to the base station (BS), which gives rise to the long distance communications problem, and in multi-hop routing, the CHs near the BS have to forward data from other nodes that lead those CHs to die prematurely, creating the hot zones problem. Unequal clustering has been proposed to solve these problems. Most of the current algorithms elect CH only by considering their competition radius, leading to unevenly distributed cluster heads. Furthermore, global distances values are needed when calculating the competition radius, which is a tedious task in large networks. To face these problems, we propose a flooding tree uneven clustering protocol (FTUC) suited for large networks. Based on the construction of a tree type sub-network to calculate the minimum and maximum distances values of the network, we then apply the unequal cluster theory. We also introduce referenced position circles to evenly elect cluster heads. Therefore, cluster heads are elected depending on the node’s residual energy and their distance to a referenced circle. FTUC builds the best inter-cluster communications route by evaluating a cluster head cost function to find the best next hop to the BS. The simulation results show that the FTUC algorithm decreases the energy consumption of the nodes and balances the global energy consumption effectively, thus extending the lifetime of the network.
Wearable Stretch Sensors for Motion Measurement of the Wrist Joint Based on Dielectric Elastomers
Authors: Huang Bo , Li Mingyu , Mei Tao , McCoul David , Qin Shihao , Zhao Zhanfeng , Zhao Jianwen
Published: November 2017

Motion capture of the human body potentially holds great significance for exoskeleton robots, human-computer interaction, sports analysis, rehabilitation research, and many other areas. Dielectric elastomer sensors (DESs) are excellent candidates for wearable human motion capture systems because of their intrinsic characteristics of softness, light weight, and compliance. In this paper, DESs were applied to measure all component motions of the wrist joints. Five sensors were mounted to different positions on the wrist, and each one is for one component motion. To find the best position to mount the sensors, the distribution of the muscles is analyzed. Even so, the component motions and the deformation of the sensors are coupled; therefore, a decoupling method was developed. By the decoupling algorithm, all component motions can be measured with a precision of 5°, which meets the requirements of general motion capture systems.
A Polar Initial Alignment Algorithm for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Yan Zheping , Wang Lu , Wang Tongda , Zhang Honghan , Zhang Xun , Liu Xiangling
Published: November 2017

Due to its highly autonomy, the strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS) is widely used in unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV) navigation. Initial alignment is crucial because the initial alignment results will be used as the initial SINS value, which might affect the subsequent SINS results. Due to the rapid convergence of Earth meridians, there is a calculation overflow in conventional initial alignment algorithms, making conventional initial algorithms are invalid for polar UUV navigation. To overcome these problems, a polar initial alignment algorithm for UUV is proposed in this paper, which consists of coarse and fine alignment algorithms. Based on the principle of the conical slow drift of gravity, the coarse alignment algorithm is derived under the grid frame. By choosing the velocity and attitude as the measurement, the fine alignment with the Kalman filter (KF) is derived under the grid frame. Simulation and experiment are realized among polar, conventional and transversal initial alignment algorithms for polar UUV navigation. Results demonstrate that the proposed polar initial alignment algorithm can complete the initial alignment of UUV in the polar region rapidly and accurately.
Interference of HTLV-1 Tax Protein with Cell Polarity Regulators: Defining the Subcellular Localization of the Tax-DLG1 Interaction
Authors: Marziali Federico , Bugnon Valdano Marina , Brunet Avalos Clarisse , Moriena Lucía , Cavatorta Ana , Gardiol Daniela
Published: November 2017

Human T cell leukemia virus (HTLV)-1 Tax (Tax) protein is very important in viral replication and cell transformation. Tax localizes in the nucleus and cytoplasm in association with organelles. Some activities of Tax depend on interactions with PDZ (PSD-95/Discs Large/Z0-1) domain–containing proteins such as Discs large protein 1 (DLG1) which is involved in cell polarity and proliferation. The DLG1 interaction results in a cytoplasmic co-localization pattern resembling vesicular aggregates, the nature of which is still unknown. To further explore the role of PDZ proteins in HTLV-1 cell transformation, we deeply investigated the Tax-DLG1 association. By fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), we detected, for the first time, the direct binding of Tax to DLG1 within the cell. We showed that the interaction specifically affects the cellular distribution of not only DLG1, but also Tax. After studying different cell structures, we demonstrated that the aggregates distribute into the Golgi apparatus in spatial association with the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC). This study contributes to understand the biological significance of Tax-PDZ interactions.
Viral Infection and Apoptosis
Authors: Kvansakul Marc
Published: November 2017

Viruses are master molecular manipulators, and evolved to thrive and survive in all species.[...]
Physical Experiment and Numerical Simulation of the Artificial Recharge Effect on Groundwater Reservoir
Authors: Xu Yang , Shu Longcang , Zhang Yongjie , Wu Peipeng , Atlabachew Eshete Abunu , Mabedi Esther
Published: November 2017

To improve the efficiency of utilizing water resources in arid areas, the mechanism of artificial recharge effecting on groundwater reservoir was analyzed in this research. Based on a generalized groundwater reservoir in a two-dimensional sand tank model, different scenarios of the infiltration basin location and recharge intensity are designed to study how to improve the efficiency of groundwater reservoir artificial recharge. The effective storage capacity and the effective storage rate are taken as the main parameters to analyze the relation between recharge water volume and storage capacity. By combining with groundwater flow system theory, FEFLOW (Finite Element subsurface FLOW system) is adopted to set up the groundwater numerical model. It is used to verify the experiment results and to make deep analysis on the rule of water table fluctuations and groundwater movement in the aquifer. Based on the model, different scenarios are designed to examine the combined effect of recharge intensity and intermittent periods. The research results show that: the distance between infiltration basin and pumping well should be shortened appropriately, but not too close; increasing recharge intensity helps to enlarge the effective storage capacity, but it can also reduce the effective storage rate, which goes against the purpose of effective utilization of water resources; and, the recharge intensity and recharge duration should be given full consideration by the actual requirements when we take the approach of intermittent recharge to make a reasonable choice.
Parallel Pleistocene amphitropical disjunctions of a parasitic plant and its host
Authors: Schneider Adam C. , Moore Abigail J.
Published: November 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Aphyllon is a clade of holoparasites that includes closely related North American and South American species parasitic on Grindelia. Both Aphyllon (Orobanchaceae) and Grindelia (Asteraceae) have amphitropical disjunctions between North America and South America; however, the timing of these patterns and the processes to explain them are unknown.

METHODS:

Chronograms for the Orobanchaceae and Grindelia and their relatives were constructed using fossil and secondary calibration points, one of which was based on the inferred timing of horizontal gene transfer from a papilionoid legume into the common ancestor of Orobanche and Phelipanche. Elevated rates of molecular evolution in the Orobanchaceae have hindered efforts to determine reliable divergence time estimates in the absence of a fossil record. However, using a horizontal gene transfer event as a secondary calibration overcomes this limitation. These chronograms were used to reconstruct the biogeography of Aphyllon, Grindelia, and relatives using a DEC+J model implemented in RevBayes.

KEY RESULTS:

Aphyllon had two amphitropical dispersals from North America to South America, while Grindelia had a single dispersal. The dispersal of the Aphyllon lineage that is parasitic on Grindelia (0.40 Ma) took place somewhat after Grindelia began to diversify in South America (0.93 Ma). Using a secondary calibration based on horizontal gene transfer, we infer more recent divergence dates of holoparasitic Orobancheae than previous studies.

CONCLUSIONS:

Parallel host–parasite amphitropical disjunctions in Grindelia and Aphyllon illustrate one means by which ecological specialization may result in nonindependent patterns of diversity in distantly related lineages. Although Grindelia and Aphyllon both dispersed to South America recently, Grindelia appears to have diversified more extensively following colonization. More broadly, recent Pleistocene glaciations probably have also contributed to patterns of diversity and biogeography of temperate northern hemisphere Orobancheae. We also demonstrate the utility of using horizontal gene transfer events from well‐dated clades to calibrate parasite phylogenies in the absence of a fossil record.
Origins of North American arid‐land Verbenaceae: More than one way to skin a cat
Authors: Frost Laura A. , Tyson Sarah McAdams , Lu‐Irving Patricia , O’Leary Nataly , Olmstead Richard G.
Published: November 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Verbenaceae originated and initially diversified in South America in wet forest habitats. They have diversified extensively in arid habitats in both South and North America. This study aims to understand the origin of the North American arid‐land members of Verbenaceae.

METHODS:

A phylogenetic approach is used to examine four genera (Aloysia, Citharexylum, Glandularia, Verbena) in three distinct clades with representatives in North American deserts and disjunct South and North American distributions. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Analyses included both plastid and nuclear DNA regions and include the first study of Citharexylum and an expanded sampling of tribe Verbeneae (Glandularia and Verbena). Ancestral areas were reconstructed for each group.

KEY RESULTS:

North American desert species of Aloysia and Glandularia were likely derived from ancestors in arid temperate South America, perhaps by long‐distance dispersal. The pattern for Verbena was less clear, with evidence from plastid DNA implicating an Andean dispersal route to the North American clade, whereas nuclear data suggest that the Andean and North American species resulted from independent dispersals from southern South America. A previously unrecognized clade of Andean Verbeneae was discovered, raising the possibility of an Andean origin of Verbena or Verbena and Glandularia. North American desert species of Citharexylum represent multiple, independent origins from mesic habitat ancestors in Mesoamerica.

CONCLUSIONS:

North American arid‐zone Verbenaceae are derived from South and Central American ancestors via multiple avenues, including long‐distance, amphitropical dispersal, Andean migration corridors, and in situ evolution of desert‐adapted species.
Zweiter Nachtrag zur Rüsselkäfer-Fauna der Schweiz (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea)
Authors: Germann Christoph
Published: November 2017

Second addition to the checklist of Swiss weevils (Coleoptera, Curculionoidea)

The number of reliably recorded taxa (species and subspecies) of Curculionoidea from Switzerland reaches at present 1080.Catapionvulnerariae(Dieckmann & Wanat, 1991),OtiorhynchuslugdunensisBoheman, 1843 andTychiustrivialisBoheman, 1843 are here recorded for the first time from Switzerland. Additional data on distribution and biology is given for 16 species.
West Palaearctic species of the Hercostomus species-group III (Diptera, Dolichopodidae), with description of a new species from Turkey
Authors: Naglis Stefan , Negrobov Oleg P.
Published: November 2017

The West-Palaearctic species of the Hercostomus species-group III are reviewed, a species-list and a revised key to males is provided. Hercostomusangustus (Loew, 1857) is restored from synonymy with Hercostomusnanus (Macquart, 1827) based on differences in male genitalia. Hercostomusgriseifrons Becker, 1910 is redescribed and a lectotype is designated. Hercostomustongucisp. n. is described from Turkey.
Sieben Erstfunde und eine Bestätigung alter Nachweise für die Schmetterlingsfauna der Schweiz (Lepidoptera: Elachistidae, Gelechiidae, Tortricidae, Pyralidae)
Authors: Kopp Andreas , Brägger Hansjörg
Published: November 2017

Seven first records and one confirmation of old records for the Lepidotera fauna of Switzerland (Lepidoptera: Elachistidae, Gelechiidae, Tortricidae, Pyralidae)

Seven microlepidoptera are reported as new for Switzerland:ElachistahedemanniRebel, 1899,Chionodescontinuella(Zeller, 1839),Gynnidomorphaalismana(Ragonot, 1883),Pelochristahuebneriana(Lienig & Zeller, 1846),Cydiailipulana(Walsingham, 1903),Hypochalciadignella(Hübner, 1796) andEuchromiusbella(Hübner, 1796). An other species, so far known only from old records on the Swiss checklist, is also reported:Aplotanigricans(Zeller, 1852).
Alpine Entomology: The journal of the Swiss Entomological Society (SES) goes alpine
Authors: Lachat Thibault , Baur Hannes
Published: November 2017

 
Adam Smith on Savages
Authors: Cremaschi Sergio
Published: November 2017

Dans l’œuvre d’Adam Smith il y a une tension entre une appréciation positive des capacités intellectuelles et morales du sauvage et la caractérisation de la première étape de l’histoire humaine comme un état de besoin et d’isolement qui est la cause de l’incapacité de la société primitive d’évoluer vers les étapes suivantes. J’illustre comment le post-scepticisme de Smith le met en mesure de mieux comprendre les sauvages que la plupart de ses contemporains et j’essaie de dessiner une reconstruction de sa vision du sauvage sur la base de sa psychologie et théorie de la connaissance. J’explore les tensions qu’il découvre dans la société civilisée où les vertus de la maitrise de soi sont affaiblies et celles de l’humanité sont cultivées parmi des groupes différents de ceux au pouvoir, parmi lesquels, au contraire, la recherche insensée de la richesse et du pouvoir domine. Enfin, je discute la tension entre la vision smithienne du sauvage comme proto-philosophe et sa vue alternative du sauvage comme proto-marchand. JEL Codes : B 12 ; B 31 ; D 01 ; I 39 ; Z 13
Inquiry into James Mill’s interpretation of Adam Smith’s love of praiseworthiness
Authors: Bianchini Victor
Published: November 2017

Cet article analyse la relation entre James Mill et Adam Smith sur la question du désir d’être digne d’éloge. D’abord, il montre que Mill fut un lecteur de la Théorie des sentiments moraux de Smith. Ensuite, l’article explique la façon dont Mill interprète Smith à propos du désir d’être digne d’éloge. Selon le premier, bien que Smith « décrivait éloquemment » un tel désir, il n’en donnait pas la fondation analytique. James Mill se proposa alors de la donner, à savoir, une sorte de calcul moral utilitariste. Enfin, l’article questionne cette interprétation, en montrant que s’il existe bien quelques passages assez proches de celle-ci, Mill n’est pas fidèle à la théorie morale de Smith.
Individu et société selon Walras
Authors: Lallement Jérôme
Published: November 2017

Les analyses modernes présentent l’équilibre général comme un archétype de l’individualisme méthodologique, permettant la conciliation des intérêts individuels grâce au marché. Cet article vise à montrer l’originalité et la spécificité du traitement de cette question par Walras. On montre d’abord que Walras considère que l’individu (soi-même) et la société (les autres) sont des données naturelles, qui coexistent nécessairement, récusant ainsi une ontologie individualiste. Mais Walras récuse aussi le holisme et il développe une analyse qui fait de l’individu et de l’État deux entités complémentaires et inséparables. Il en découle une vision du rôle économique de l’État très éloignée du libéralisme fondé sur l’individualisme. L’État doit intervenir pour rendre possible la libre entreprise en organisant les marchés et en maintenant la concurrence. Et, pour ce faire, l’État doit disposer de ressources propres, obtenues non pas grâce à l’impôt, mais par l’étatisation du sol.
Hypoxia in deep waters of moderately eutrophic marine lakes, Island of Mljet, eastern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Hrustić Enis , Bobanović-Ćolić Svjetlana
Published: November 2017

In this study, we explored the impact of eutrophication and stratification on hypoxia in deep waters of moderately warm Croatian marine lakes. Although the Mljet Lakes (MLs) are predominantly oligotrophic, mesotrophic conditions are present at depths below 20 m in the Small Lake (SL) and below 30 m in the Big Lake (BL), along with higher apparent oxygen utilization (AOU). Hypoxia at depths ≥ 25 m in SL and and ≥ 40 m in BL was observed between October 2009 and January 2010, and in SL in summer (July and September 2010). Significant differences (p < 0.05) in several physical, biological and chemical parameters were detected between the lakes, while AOU, derived oxygen utilization rate (OUR) and organic carbon remineralization rate (OCRR) were not significantly different (p >0.05) between the lakes. An intense and persistent pycnocline throughout the year, comparatively high water temperature, extended water renewal time and summer phytoplankton bloom were identified as physical and biological parameters which might have significantly contributed to increased frequency of hypoxic events in a shallow SL. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher ammonium concentration in SL, especially in its deep water, seems to be a long-term chemical feature related to the poor ventilation and higher sediment oxygen demand. At the current level of eutrophication and the present climate change trends, the MLs and similar systems may experience more persistent and intense stratification, which could further prevent mixing between upper and deep waters, likely leading to increasing duration of hypoxia and its negative impacts on the biodiversity of benthic communities.
Efficient Strain Based Triangular and Sector Elements for Elasticity Problems
Authors: Bourezane Messaoud
Published: November 2017

Utilising the strain based approach with exact representation of rigid body motion, an efficient way of constructing membrane elements will be proposed. The major problem encountered in practice is generally the compatibility between degrees of freedom of various elements [1-3]. A simple and efficient triangular and sector element are developed by the use of the strain based approach. They are based on the assumed independent functions for the various components of strain insofar as it is allowed by the compatibility equations. Theses elements produce results which are acceptable within practical engineering accuracy even when few elements are employed.
Gas-Slag-Forming System of Flux-Cored Wires for Plasma-Mig Building-Up Welding
Authors: Chigarev Valerii V. , Makarenko Nataliia A. , Hryn' Oleksandr H. , Plis Serhiy H. , Holub Denys M.
Published: November 2017

Gas-slag-forming systems of flux-cored wires for plasma building-up welding surveyed. Application of substances at overlaying welding boron triphtoride is considered, to provide the improvement of formation of the deposited bead, reduces vaporization. Systems of gas-slag-forming substances which are gating out boron triphtoride are proposed excreting boron triphtoride are investigated at overlaying welding.
Status and trends in the global growth of Koedoe between 1958 and 2016
Authors: Foxcroft Llewellyn C. , Herbst Marna
Published: November 2017

No abstract available.
Reviewers of Volume 12, 2017 of Revista Ambiente & Água
Authors: Batista Getulio Teixeira
Published: November 2017

The following list (Table 1) includes the names and affiliations of all reviewers that evaluated submissions processed for Volume 12, 2017 of Revista Ambiente & Água. Including manuscripts that were accepted and published in one of the six annual issues and also manuscripts submitted and rejected up to October 10, 2017. It may therefore include the names of reviewers that completed their evaluations between September, 2016 and October, 2017.We are deeply indebted to all of them that voluntarily and anonymously spent their precious time to support the journal, and contributed immensely to the quality of the published articles. We gratefully acknowledge their professional work and outstanding product.
Aproveitamento de água de chuva de cobertura em edificações: dimensionamento do reservatório pelos métodos descritos na NBR 15527
Authors: Rezende Jozrael Henriques , Tecedor Natália
Published: November 2017

Este estudo avaliou a viabilidade do aproveitamento da água das chuvas no Tanque de Provas, utilizado em ensaios de modelos reduzidos de embarcações da Faculdade de Tecnologia de Jahu - Fatec Jahu, SP. O trabalho considerou os dados pluviométricos locais, a área de cobertura para captação e a demanda de água. Foi estimada a necessidade de água no processo de limpeza por filtragem, lavagem e evaporação do Tanque de Provas. O dimensionamento do reservatório foi calculado conforme as metodologias descritas na NBR 15527, que determina os requisitos para o aproveitamento de coberturas em áreas urbanas para fins não potáveis. O volume do reservatório selecionado como a melhor alternativa após as análises comparativas considerou as restrições locais e o risco de não atendimento, permitiu o máximo aproveitamento da água pluvial e resultou na maior redução possível da demanda de água potável do sistema de abastecimento público.
Management of phosphorus in water: case study of the Tietê River, Brazil
Authors: Quevedo Claudia Maria Gomes de , Paganini Wanderley Da Silva
Published: November 2017

Strategies for managing phosphorus in the environment have been considered to be of great significance. In light of debates about protecting water resources, tools for recovering and recycling phosphorus are being assessed, with the aim of guaranteeing the sustainability of natural reserves. This study discusses phosphorus dynamics in the environment and measures geared towards the management of its presence in water. In order to illustrate the situation in Brazil, we present an assessment of the size of the potential phosphorus load that is discharged daily into the Tietê River, State of São Paulo, by the urban population living in its basin. Due to its replacement in powdered detergents, the results showed a potential reduction in the amount of phosphorus discharged into the Tietê of about 11.7 t day-1. The size of the potential phosphorus load that might be recovered from sewage sludge shows a scenario of great potential for re-using and recycling in agricultural areas, as long as the necessary care is taken regarding safety and environmental protection. Management methodologies, such as Cleaner Production (CP) techniques, are important tools for controlling water pollution, as they contribute to the reduction of phosphorus emissions. They can therefore improve the perception producers and consumers have of this issue, introducing reducing, recycling and recovering concepts, and assisting in compliance with public policies geared towards preserving the environment.
O papel dos comitês de bacia nos processos de licenciamento ambiental: um estudo de caso do comitê de bacia do rio Sorocaba e Médio Tietê (SP)
Authors: Chinaque Fernanda Fernandez , Santos André Cordeiro Alves Dos , Melo Ismail Barra Nova de , Marques Silvio César Moral
Published: November 2017

Uma das funções dos CBHs é promover discussões sobre os possíveis impactos ambientais e socioambientais de empreendimentos que pretendem estabelecer-se na região da Bacia Hidrográfica. Entretanto, qual é o impacto do comitê nesses processos de licenciamento ambiental? Eles assumem o seu papel nos processos de aplicação de políticas públicas voltadas para a proteção das águas? Com o objetivo de contribuir para o entendimento da participação dos CBHs nos processos de licenciamento ambiental, de empreendimentos impactantes aos recursos hídricos, a presente pesquisa adotou como estudo de caso o comitê de Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Sorocaba e Médio Tietê, e utilizou como ferramenta de análise os documentos de três processos de licenciamento ambiental de Aterros Sanitários que passaram pelo CBH-SMT. Nos casos dos Aterros com localização nos municípios de Sorocaba/SP e Iperó/SP, o órgão licenciador ignora as posições do comitê. Em relação ao Aterro com localização em Araçariguama/SP, o órgão referencia o comitê em poucos pontos de sua manifestação, e na maioria, contrário às posições do comitê. As reflexões dos resultados sugerem que o poder do comitê é minimizado nas análises de EIA, se comparado à proposta de gestão descentralizada e democrática das águas no Brasil. Entretanto, eles podem estar contribuindo para a inquietação da população e estimulando seu protagonismo nas tomadas de decisão. Ainda assim, os CBHs não devem se contentar como estimuladores da população, mas sim buscar seu fortalecimento para tornarem-se instrumentos de aplicação de políticas públicas voltadas para a proteção dos recursos hídricos.
Remoção de cistos de Giardia spp. e oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp. na Estação de Tratamento de Esgoto Garcia, no município de Blumenau, SC, Brasil
Authors: Miglioli Mauro Giovanni , Zuanazzi Jessica Geremias , Silva Joel Dias da , Franco Regina Maura Bueno , Greinert-Goulart Juliane Araújo
Published: November 2017

Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. são agentes etiológicos responsáveis por uma série de epidemias de gastroenterites ocorridas, principalmente, após o consumo de água contaminada. Os cistos e oocistos destes protozoários são resistentes às variações ambientais, bem como a maioria dos processos físicos, químicos e microbiológicos utilizados nas estações de tratamento de água e esgoto. Deste modo, este estudo teve como objetivo detectar e avaliar a remoção de cistos de Giardia spp. e oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp. no sistema de tratamento combinado anaeróbio + aeróbio da ETE Garcia em Blumenau, SC. Para efetuar a detecção de cistos e oocistos, as amostras de efluentes e lodos provenientes da ETE foram concentradas através de filtração em membranas de ésteres de celulose e centrifugação, seguida por reação de imunofluorescência direta (RID) utilizando o Kit diagnóstico - Merifluor. Para a obtenção dos parâmetros físicos, químicos e microbiológicos, as análises seguiram os padrões preconizados em APHA (2012). Concentrações elevadas de cistos de Giardia spp. (máx. 900.000 cistos L-1) foram detectadas em 83,3% dos pontos analisados. Oocistos de Cryptosporidium spp. também foram detectados em elevadas concentrações (máx. 300.000 oocistos L-1) em 66,6% dos pontos analisados. Não foram detectados cistos e oocistos nas amostras do efluente tratado, deste modo o sistema combinado da ETE Garcia apresentou uma eficiência >99,9% para a remoção das formas resistentes destes patógenos, contribuindo para a redução da contaminação ambiental por protozoários patogênicos presentes no esgoto doméstico do município de Blumenau, SC, Brasil.
Evaluation of the Sagittaria montevidensis Cham. & Schltdl. as a bioindicator and phytoextractor of toxic metals
Authors: Ferrer Edila Maria Kickhöfel , Betemps Glauco Rasmussen , Rosa Nathaly Nunes da , Sanches Filho Pedro José
Published: November 2017

This study evaluated the bioindication and phytoremediation capacity of the aquatic macrophyte Sagittaria montevidensis by using it to assess the bioconcentration and translocation of heavy metals. A simple sampling was conducted at four sites in the region of Pelotas, southern Brazil, where plants, water and sediments were collected. The plants were subjected to nitric-perchloric acid digestion and the sediments underwent pseudo-total acid digestion. The determination of the elements Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni and Zn in the extracts was performed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Physicochemical tests were also carried out on water samples, including pH, electrical conductivity, chlorides, alkalinity, hardness and organic matter, and in sediment samples, moisture and organic matter content. The macrophyte study indicated a Bioconcentration Factor (BCF) and a Translocation Factor (TF), especially for Ni. The results showed that the aquatic macrophyte species S. montevidensis has a phytoextraction capacity, mainly for Ni, and potentially for bioindication of Cu, Ni and Zn.
Water security in the Vale do Paraiba´s basin: future scenarios
Authors: Fisch Gilberto , Santos Thiago Adriano dos , Silva Rodrigo Cesar da
Published: November 2017

This paper presents general aspects of the water budget (including the latest available figures from its components), followed by some characteristics of the rainfall along the Paraiba do Sul watershed. The regional water budget theme is then discussed, taking into account the actual and future rainfall in the region. Finally, reflections and discussions regarding the water security theme (represented by the water transposition from the Paraiba do Sul watershed to the Cantareira´s system) are discussed, as the latter represents the water demand of São Paulo City. The future scenarios of the water availability are estimated using a climatic simulation model.
Histoire de la médecine vétérinaire romaine et dans l’antiquité tardive. II. Méthode d’interprétation des textes
Authors: Bourdy Franck
Published: November 2017

L’exploitation des sources romaines en histoire de la médecine vétérinaire demande un traitement étape par étape : traitement philologique des manuscrits, traduction, puis commentaire comportant l’identification de la maladie, la vérification de l’exactitude des symptômes décrits, la discussion des traitements, enfin l’étiopathogénie proposée est discutée en fonction des connaissances anciennes et modernes. Tout cet ensemble demande la coopération de plusieurs personnes : philologues, latinistes et hellénistes, vétérinaires....
La trichinellose et la santé publique aujourd’hui en France
Authors: Catsaras Marc
Published: November 2017

Après quelques rappels parasitologiques, la trichinose en France et ailleurs est présentée avant 1976. À partir de 1976, la France a connu 8 épidémies importantes jusqu’en fin 1998, provoquées par de la viande importée (Amérique du Nord, E.U. : Canada ; Mexique et Europe de l’Est). Les caractéristiques des épidémies, les mesures prises pour la détection dans les abattoirs, sont discutées. La trichinose d’origine chevaline est aujourd’hui en France un problème de Santé Publique.
Abord nutritionnel de l’obésité
Authors: Coquet Maxime
Published: November 2017

L’obésité est de loin la maladie nutritionnelle la plus fréquente puisqu’elle touche, d’après certains auteurs, 18 % des chats et jusqu’à 30 % des chiens. Elle présente de nombreux facteurs favorisants et déterminants.

C’est une affection grave en raison de ses multiples complications (articulaires, diabétiques, hépatiques, cardiorespiratoires, digestives, immunitaires, chirurgicales...).

L’alimentation est essentielle tant du point de vue de la prévention (ajustement des apports énergétiques aux besoins) que dans la thérapeutique qui requiert des régimes hypoénergétiques, équilibrés, enrichis en fibres. Ces rations doivent être distribuées aux carnivores prédisposés de manière prolongée, parfois définitive.
Une zoonose ré-émergente transmise par les tiques : la maladie de Lyme
Authors: Euzéby Jacques , Euzéby Jean-Paul
Published: November 2017

La pathogénicité des spirochètes du complexe Borrelia burgdorferi est connu depuis 1909 (Afzelius) et 1922 (Garin), même si on en ignorait, à cette époque, l’étiologie précise. Cette étiologie a été reconnue dans les années 70 (Scrimenti), alors que dès 1955 (Binder), le rôle des tiques dans l’épidémiologie du processus pathologique avait été envisagé. C’est la fréquence des cas survenus dans le comté de Lyme (Connecticut, E-U), qui a fait donner son nom à une pathologie découverte en Europe. Pendant longtemps oubliée, la maladie de Lyme, qui n’avait pas disparu, s’est rappelée à l’attention des cliniciens et des épidémiologistes de par la fréquence des observations rapportées, en raison du retour à la nature, qui favorise le contact avec les tiques vectrices de l’infection et des syndromes d’immuno-dépression, qui en facilitent l’actualisation ; elle est donc bien “ré-émergente”. Les recherches, qui se sont alors multipliées, ont apporté de nombreuses précisions sur des données déjà connues et ont permis l’acquisition de données nouvelles. La présente revue est un résumé de ces acquisitions, sur le plan de la bactériologie, de l’épidémiologie, de la clinique et du contrôle de la maladie.
La cellulite chez le poulet de chair. Un problème multifactoriel
Authors: Boulianne Martine , Messier Serge
Published: November 2017

Cellulitis in broiler chickens - a multifactorial problem.

Cellulitis is a condition commonly diagnosed in broiler chickens carcasses, in north american slaughter houses. It is characterized by skin discoloration and dermis thickening of the pericloacal region, while the subcutaneous space is occupied by flbrinocaseous exudate. A retrospective study of Quebec’s slaughter data revealed that males were more at risk than females to develop cellulitis, independantly of body weight. A longitudinal prospective study ; comparing higth to low cellulitis incidence flocks showed that ; poor feathering, lack of disinfection between flocks, poor litter, and high density were significant risk factors. Multilocus Enzyme Electrophoresis, performed on Escherichia coli isolates from environmental and lesions samples, demonstrated that isolates producing cellulitis lesions in high incidence flocks belong to a limited number of specific clones not always genetically related. Cellutitis could therefore be a condition secondary to skin scratches infection by certain Escherichia coli isolates, occuring in poorly feathered chickens.
Le “G.I.R.C.O.R.”, Groupe Interprofessionnel de Réflexion et de Communication sur la Recherche
Authors: Maurin-Blanchet Henri
Published: November 2017

Biological research information and communication society in France : activities and future prospects of action.

Knowledge about comprehension of biological research necessities requires real means of communication, especially when laboratory animal experimentation is needed in the purpose of a better human and animal health.

With this object, have been created a french association whose members are representatives of public research centers and private laboratories.

Several actions were undertaken for a general public information such as book and booklets, meetings, visits of laboratories, motions about ethical principles with regard to laboratory animals welfare and so on.

A governing board gives orientations of action, with the guarantee of an honourable committee.
Effect of Pigging Damage on Sulfide Stress Corrosion Cracking of Type 316L Stainless Steel Cladding
Authors: Hesketh J. , Hinds G. , Morana R.
Published: November 2017

Scouring pigging of oil and gas pipelines is used to maintain flow efficiency by abrading the inner surface to remove precipitates such as wax and scale. There has been uncertainty over whether pigging of corrosion resistant alloy pipelines used in sour service could adversely affect their resistance to localized corrosion and stress corrosion cracking (SCC). In this work, a novel environmental chamber was developed to enable scouring pigging to be simulated on pipeline steels while under tensile stress and exposed to deoxygenated brine. Using this configuration, representative pigging damage was reproduced on Type 316L stainless steel cladding with both ground and as-received finish prior to four-point bend testing in a range of environments. Under conditions in which the alloy is considered to be resistant to SCC, simulated pigging had no adverse effect on the resistance of the alloy to localized corrosion or cracking. Under more severe test conditions, in which the alloy is considered to be susceptible to SCC, specimens with an as-received surface experienced preferential pitting and cracking located at pigging scratches, whereas no such effect was observed for ground specimens. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements demonstrated that the abraded surface had a thinner passive film and a lower corrosion resistance than the as-received surface. However, this detrimental effect of surface abrasion, which is associated with the removal of the pickled and passivated surface, is taken into account by the conservatism of SCC test programs, in which ground specimens are typically included. These findings support the perspective that under normal operating conditions scouring pigging is not expected to increase the risk of pitting or SCC.
Fundamental Study of Corrosion Preventive Compounds: Part I—Formulation and Characterization
Authors: Wang Shan-Shan , Frankel G.S.
Published: November 2017

Hard film corrosion preventive compounds (CPCs) were formulated based on the general composition of a commercial CPC. The homemade CPC was composed of a combination of resins, organic solvents, and corrosion inhibitor. The corrosion protection provided by the commercial CPC and homemade CPCs applied to Al alloys and 1018 carbon steel was assessed using the ASTM B117 salt spray test. The CPC containing Mg sulfonate inhibitor and the commercial CPC performed the best, and the CPCs without corrosion inhibitor or with Na sulfonate inhibitor performed the worst. No or slight corrosion was visible on Al alloys coated with the commercial CPC and the best homemade CPCs after 500 h of salt spray exposure. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) testing was used to assess the degradation of CPCs on AA2024-T3 samples immersed in NaCl solution. CPCs showed better performance during immersion than in the salt spray environment. EIS testing was also used to show that homemade CPCs can displace water from a water-saturated primer. The compositional profiles of CPCs both before and after salt spray exposure were determined using glow discharge optical emission spectroscopy. There were only small changes in the thickness of the commercial CPC and the homemade CPC containing Mg sulfonate inhibitor after salt spray exposure, while the thickness of the homemade CPC containing Ba sulfonate inhibitor was largely reduced after exposure.