bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Microemulsions Containing Carthamus tinctorius Extract for 5α-Reductase Inhibition
Authors: Soradech Sitthiphong , Panapong Khaunnapa , Soonthornsatitwong Surada , Manchun Somkamol , Tubtimted Sirinan , Kusolkumbot Pokchut
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to develop micromeulsion consisting of Carthamus tinctorius floret extract (CT) as an ingredient to inhibit 5α-reductase activity. CT was extracted using a simple maceration technique with ethanol and inhibition of 5α-reductase activities was determined. Solutions of 2% CT extract were loaded into four microemulsion (ME) formulas (F1, F2, F3 and F4) and investigated for their physical properties, skin permeation and stability. Results showed that crude CT extract had no toxic effects on DU145 cells at concentrations of 0.0001-1.0 mg/mL. For reduction of 5α-reductase activities, concentration of CT extract at 0.05 mg/mL exhibited highest 5-reductase type-1 inhibition activity on the DU-145 cell line at 89.96% of the control, higher than standard finasteride (31.39%) and dutasteride (38.58%). The results indicated that a thermodynamically stable microemulsion improved the stability and permeation rate of CT extract. Among the ME formula, F3 was most appropriate for ME formulation with highest permeation rate and good stability during 30 days of storage. Therefore, using nanotechnology for stable transdermal delivery systems of bioactive compounds from Thai medicinal plants is one approach to improve skin and hair follicle permeation.
MDMA-Associated Liver Toxicity: Pathophysiology, Management, and Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Cajanding Ruff Joseph Macale
Published: August 2019

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) has become a popular recreational drug of abuse among young adults, partly because of the belief that it is relatively safe compared with other drugs with the same stimulant and hallucinogenic effects. However, MDMA use has been associated with a wide spectrum of organ toxicities, with the liver being severely affected by its deleterious effects. This article discusses the essential pharmacology of MDMA and describes the effects MDMA has on various organ systems of the body, with particular focus on the liver. The putative mechanisms by which MDMA can cause liver damage are explored, with emphasis on patient-related factors that explain why some individuals are more susceptible than others to damage from MDMA. The incidence of hepatotoxicity related to MDMA use is presented, and the nursing management of patients who develop acute liver failure due to MDMA overuse is explored in light of current evidence.
Checklist di alcuni gruppi selezionati dell’entomofauna del Parco Naturale Archeologico dell’Inviolata (Guidonia Montecelio, Roma)
Authors: Crucitti Pierangelo , Brocchieri Davide , Bubbico Francesco , Castelluccio Paolo , Cervoni Francesco , Di Russo Edoardo , Emiliani Federica , Giardini Marco , Pulvirenti Edoardo
Published: August 2019

Sono riportati i risultati di una indagine conoscitiva sistematica effettuata negli anni 2016-2019 su alcuni gruppi di Insecta appartenenti a odonata, orthopteroidaea, Dermaptera, Coleoptera, lepidoptera, Isoptera e Mecoptera monitorati nel Parco Naturale archeologico dell’Inviolata (Roma, Lazio). Sono descritti i principali caratteri geomorfologici, climatologici e vegetazionali dell’area studiata. I campionamenti sono stati effettuati con metodologie diversificate; raccolta manuale, trappole a caduta, sorgenti luminose, ispezione di feci, animali morti e vegetazione acquatica. È stata accertata la presenza di 533 taxa appartenenti a 101 famiglie. l’ordine maggiormente rappresentato è quello dei Coleoptera (359 taxa) cui appartiene la famiglia più rappresentata, quella dei Carabidae (77 taxa); seguono i lepidoptera con 107 taxa. Nel complesso, le specie endemiche italiane e/o rare sono numerose. Eriogaster catax ed Euplagia quadripunctaria sono protette dalla Direttiva habitat (92/43/CEE). Si segnalano in particolare il rinvenimento di Labia minor (Dermaptera), osservata per la prima volta nella Campagna Romana, e di Anthaxia lucens (Buprestidae), per la quale il Parco dell’Inviolata è l’unica stazione nota nel lazio. l’analisi biogeografica, basata sui corotipi delle specie di odonata e Coleoptera Carabidae, ha evidenziato la predominanza di elementi ad ampia distribuzione, seguiti da quelli europei e mediterranei. Sono quindi state effettuate comparazioni con l’entomofauna di aree della Campagna Romana a nord-est di Roma. È stata sottolineata l’importanza ecologica dei piccoli bacini lacustri a regime idrologico variabile presenti nell’area protetta.
Per un’educazione alla solidarietà: dalla bioetica globale all’etica della complessità
Authors: Giacobello Maria Laura
Published: August 2019

L’articolo propone un excursus che va dalla critica all’ideologia dell’homo oeconomicus, all’educazione alla bioetica come formazione alla solidarietà, transitando per la bioetica globale di Van Potter ed evidenziandone la curvatura ecologica, per finire con un accostamento tra la bioetica e l’etica della complessità di Edgar Morin. L’insufficienza etica radicale che affligge l’uomo contemporaneo si fonda infatti su una concezione riduzionistica, che risolve l’uomo nella mera istanza economicistica. Si profila pertanto l’urgenza di un rinnovamento delle ordinarie categorie gnoseologiche e morali, che possa riconsegnare l’uomo alla complessità della sua identità, in cui si trovano inscritti i valori dell’altruismo e della solidarietà. In questa missione, la bioetica e il pensiero della complessità si riconoscono nel comune intento della riforma dell’insegnamento.
Gender’s post-feminism and transhumanism
Authors: Burguete Miguel Enrique Eduardo
Published: August 2019

The corollary of the humanist project for human enhancement is transhumanism, which considers post-human modes of existence to be desirable, and aspires to overcome our vulnerability by incorporating available technology into our nature. One of its manifestations is the queer theory, which calls for actively redefining the “self”, starting with the sexed body and its functioning. This article analyses the transhumanist impulse and the queer theory from the concepts of emancipation and progress, asking the following questions: a) What do both terms mean when we refer to human beings? and b) Are transhumanism and the queer theory examples of true emancipation and progress, or conversely, a relapse into to our primitive state of nature that orders praxis to the subjugation of nature and the imperative of self-preservation?
Evaluating portable Raman spectrometers for use in exploration of pegmatite dikes, Wekusko Lake, Manitoba
Authors: Benn D , Linnen R , Martins T
Published: August 2019

Pegmatite deposits are an important source of lithium, which increasingly is used in battery technologies. The rare-metal pegmatite dikes of the Green Bay group from the Wekusko Lake pegmatite field in Manitoba offer an excellent opportunity to investigate new
exploration techniques for lithium pegmatites. The dikes were mapped and sampled during the summer of 2018, and this work revealed that the pegmatite dikes are deformed and folded. The examination of drill core revealed that the pegmatite dikes exhibit five zones, defined by their minerology and
grain size: a border zone, wall zone, intermediate zone, central zone and a core zone. The zones vary in width and all zones are not always present in each pegmatite. The crystal habit of muscovite, feldspar and spodumene vary based on the host zone and muscovite mineral chemistry is being examined
as a potential vector for Li mineralization. Columbite-group (CGM) minerals are zoned with respect to Nb and Ta values and primary grains have been selected for U-Pb geochronological studies.
Convergent margin Ni-Cu-PGE-Cr ore systems: temporal and magmatic evolution
Authors: Nixon G T , Milidragovic D , Scoates J
S
Published: August 2019

Ultramafic-mafic intrusions at convergent margins contain some of the world's significant Ni-Cu-PGE sulphide deposits and are becoming an increasingly important exploration target. This class of intrusions is well-represented in the accreted arc terranes of the
northern Cordillera, particularly the Alaskan-type subclass. In this report, we describe current research on three Alaskan-type intrusions in British Columbia that are variably endowed in magmatic Ni-Cu-PGE mineralization. The goal of this project is to determine the timing of mineralization in
relation to the temporal and magmatic evolution of the intrusion and to develop new mineral deposit models as guides for exploration. U-Pb and 40Ar/39Ar geochronological results for the Turnagain intrusion indicate multi-stage assembly of a composite body in the Early Jurassic (ca. 189-185 Ma)
during initial accretion of arc terranes to the ancient North American continental margin. Ni(-Co) and Cu-PGE sulphide mineralization is partitioned within separate sub-intrusions that were emplaced during active accretion. A newly investigated zone of Cu-Pd-Pt sulphide mineralization in the
Tulameen intrusion bears a strong resemblance to certain 'reef-style' deposits in layered intrusions. Preliminary geochronology results indicate emplacement of the Tulameen intrusive suite in the latest Triassic (ca. 204-206 Ma), coincident with the most prolific Cu-Au porphyry epoch in British
Columbia. Investigation of magmatic sulphide occurrences at the Polaris Alaskan-type intrusion was initiated last summer and samples collected during the field season are currently being processed and examined.
Prevalence and risk factors contributing to antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from poultry meat products in South Africa, 2015–2016
Authors: Govender Vashnee , Madoroba Evelyn , Magwedere Kudakwashe , Fosgate Geoffrey , Kuonza Lazarus
Published: August 2019

Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains, has been detected in food products of animal origin globally. Limited data have been reported on the factors contributing to antibiotic resistance of food-borne pathogens in South Africa. The primary aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. aureus, including antibiotic-resistant strains, in poultry meat products as well as the evaluation of potential risk factors for contamination of poultry meat products with antibiotic-resistant S. aureus isolates. A cross-sectional investigation was conducted in municipalities located across the nine provinces of South Africa, which included abattoirs, meat processing facilities, retail outlets and cold stores at the major ports of entry into South Africa. Staphylococcus aureus isolates obtained from various poultry meat products were tested for susceptibility to 14 antibiotic compounds representing 10 antibiotic classes using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method. Potential risk factors were evaluated using a logistic regression model. Of the 311 samples tested, 34.1% (n = 106) were positive for S. aureus (95% confidence interval [CI], 28.9% – 39.7%). Seventy-two of the 106 isolates were randomly selected for antibiotic sensitivity testing. Twenty-one per cent (n = 15) of the isolates selected for sensitivity testing were methicillin-resistant strains (95% CI, 12.2% – 32.0%). Multi-drug resistance was detected in 22.2% (n = 16) of these isolates tested (95% CI, 13.3% – 33.6%). Origin of the product (p = 0.160), type of meat product (p = 0.962), type of facility (p = 0.115) and facility hygiene practices (p = 0.484) were not significantly associated with contamination of poultry meat products with methicillin-resistant strains. The study provides baseline data for further studies on antibiotic resistance risk assessments for food-borne pathogens, including S. aureus, which should guide the implementation plans of the South African National Antimicrobial Resistance Strategy Framework, 2017–2024.
Adenine Decreases Hypertrophic Effects through Interleukin-18 Receptor
Authors: Yang Yi-Feng , Liang Yao-Jen
Published: August 2019

Cardiac hypertrophy is the main cause of heart failure. Levels of circulating interleukin-18 (IL-18) have been reported to increase in congestive heart disease and cardiac hypertrophy. Relationships among IL-18 levels, IL-18 receptor (IL-18R) expression, and cardiac hypertrophy remain unclear. IL-18 can induce cardiac hypertrophy in cardiomyoblasts. We also studied IL-18R messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression through quantitative-polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Furthermore, we treated cardiomyoblasts with adenine, gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and inhibitors to analyze the morphology and identify signaling pathways involved in cardiac hypertrophy. Moreover, we studied the effects of IL-18R small interfering RNA (siRNA) on signaling pathways through Western blotting. The mRNA expression of IL-18R in H9c2 cardiomyoblasts, which was induced by IL-18, increased significantly after 8 h, and the protein level increased significantly after 15 h. Morphological examination of H9c2 cardiomyoblasts showed that cell volume and cell diameter decreased after adenine pretreatment. Both p38 MAPK and PI3 kinase are biomarkers in the pathway correlated with cardiac hypertrophy. After treatment with inhibitors SB203580 and LY294002, the levels of p38 MAPK and PI3 kinase, respectively, decreased along with cell size and IL-18R expression. Treatment with adenine, but not AuNPs, reduced the levels of phosphorylated p38 and PI3 kinase expression more effectively than did treatment with the respective inhibitors alone. IL-18R siRNA significantly reduced cell size but not PI3 kinase expression and phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. However, adenine treatment reduced PI3 kinase expression after treatment with IL-18R siRNA. In this study, IL-18 induced cardiomyoblast hypertrophy through IL-18R upregulation, which was found to be related to p38 MAPK and PI3 kinase signaling. Adenine, but not AuNPs, showed antihypertrophic effects possibly because of decreased levels of signaling.
Effect of Taurine on Ethanol-Induced Oxidative Stress in Mouse Liver and Kidney
Authors: Goc Zofia , Kapusta Edyta , Formicki Grzegorz , Martiniaková Monika , Omelka Radoslav
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of alcohol exposure on liver and kidney antioxidant systems in taurine exhibition during different time periods. Mice were divided into groups: I – control; II – alcohol (2.5 g/kg b.w.); III – taurine (42.84 mg/kg b.w.); and IV – alcohol + taurine. Treatments were provided for 24 h, 14 days, and 56 days. In the liver and kidney of the alcohol group, antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) activities, reduced glutathione (GSH), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were decreased, as compared to the control group in all time periods. Taurine was found to be effectively inhibiting oxidative action of alcohol and increasing all the tested parameters in the liver (after 24 h) and kidney (after 24 h and 14 days). Moreover, the positive effect of taurine administration on GSH and MDA levels persisted in the kidneys of mice exposed to alcohol for 56 days. In conclusion, alcohol administration led to a significant influence on antioxidant system in the liver and kidney, but simultaneous intake of taurine, along with ethanol, partly attenuated the antioxidant changes in these organs.
Reproducibility of Echocardiography in Assessing Left Atrial Reservoir Function in Rheumatic Mitral Valve Disease
Authors: Elsaidy Mona A. , Abdalaal Mohamed A. , Elsheikh Ayman A. , Elsharkawi Sarah
Published: August 2019

Background:

Although abnormal left atrial (LA) reservoir function had been associated with clinical events in patients with mitral valve disease, its routine assessment is not performed due to inaccuracies and difficult time-consuming measurements.

Aim:

The aim was to study the feasibility and reproducibility of different echocardiographic parameters for LA assessment in patients with rheumatic mitral valve disease.

Methods:

Two hundred and fifty-nine patients with mitral valve disease underwent full echocardiographic examination. LA reservoir function was measured by two-dimensional (2D) volumes, 3D volumes, and global longitudinal strain (LA GLS). LA GLS, volumes, and total left atrial emptying fraction values were repeated to obtain the intra- and interobserver variabilities. The latter was performed between a nonexpert and two expert examiners.

Results:

3D echocardiography was highly feasible in assessing LA function, feasibility was 94%, and was performed in the shortest time (1.3 ± 0.4, ANOVA, P < 0.0001). All LA 3D measurements showed excellent intraobserver and interobserver reproducibility between the two expert readers; coefficient of variation (CV) was 7% and 8%, respectively, for LA maximal volume index (LAVImax). Although CV for interobserver variability between the expert and nonexpert readers was 12% for 3D minimal LAVI (LAVImin), assessment of 2D LA volumes had the lowest reproducibility; CV was 15% for LAVImin.

Conclusion:

3-d echocardiography assessment of LA volumes and function in patients with rheumatic heart disease is highly feasible and reproducible; it is easy to learn and can be easily performed by nonexperts.
Arrhythmogenic Isolated Left Atrial Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Shukla Madhu , Mohan Vishwas , Mohan Jagdish Chander
Published: August 2019

The atrial structure or substrate of patients with atrial arrhythmias can present very differently, and also, the “phenotype” of the arrhythmia cannot explain these differences. Idiopathic isolated atrial cardiomyopathy is a novel subtype of cardiomyopathy characterized possibly by atrial fibrosis that does not involve the ventricular myocardium and is associated with significant atrial tachyarrhythmia and no systemic, inflammatory, or infiltrative disease. We report a 57-year-old female doctor who presented with recurrent palpitations of 2-week duration and was shown to have normal left ventricular size, function, longitudinal strain, and filling pressures as judged by E/e' ratio and mitral early diastolic Doppler tissue velocities. The study of atria revealed markedly enlarged left atrium (LA), significantly reduced left atrial reservoir strain, and increased LA stiffness index. Frequent atrial ectopy may be manifestation of a structural atrial disease which could be termed arrhythmogenic isolated LA cardiomyopathy.
Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Infiltrative Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pudhiavan A. , Kothari Richa , Raj Vimal
Published: August 2019

Infiltrative cardiomyopathies are a wide spectrum of disorders characterized by deposition of abnormal substances in the myocardium. These have a varied etiology and can be idiopathic, familial, or secondary to systemic disorders. The infiltrative process primarily causes a diastolic dysfunction resulting in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Common infiltrative cardiomyopathies encountered are cardiac amyloidosis, sarcoidosis, Fabry disease, iron overload cardiomyopathy, endomyocardial fibrosis, and idiopathic restrictive cardiomyopathy. Early and accurate detection of cause of infiltration is very important to improve outcomes through disease-specific therapies. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) plays an important role in the diagnosis, avoiding the need of invasive endomyocardial biopsy in many cases. The use of postcontrast late gadolinium enhancement and T1 and T2 mapping sequences in CMR is improving diagnosis of infiltrative cardiomyopathy. In this review, we highlight the role of CMR in detection of different types of infiltrative cardiomyopathy.
Intraoperative Assessment of Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Pollak Angela L. , Swaminathan Madhav
Published: August 2019

Since its advent, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has played an important role in the surgical management of patients undergoing mitral valve (MV) surgery. Mitral regurgitation (MR) assessment and surgical decision making remains one of the most challenging situations, especially when considered in the context of ischemic heart disease or when associated with another dominant lesions. Techniques for MV repair are becoming more and more intricate with outcome studies strongly supporting repair in contrast to replacement in patients with primary MV pathology. It is in these scenarios that a comprehensive intraoperative TEE is invaluable. Once MR is detected, it is vital to assess the valve for both qualitative and quantitative features. The following text discusses the approach, challenges and value of intraoperative TEE in the assessment of MR.
Quadrivalvular Rheumatic Heart Disease
Authors: Nenwani Deepak Ramchand , Ganesan Gnanavelu , Venkatesan S. , Babu S. Saravana
Published: August 2019

Rarely, rheumatic heart disease (RHD) involves all the four valves and causes could be rheumatic, congenital, infective, or degenerative. Here, we report a case of a 42-year-old female known case RHD for 30 years and underwent closed mitral commissurotomy 25 years back presented with progressive exertional dyspnea for the past 1 year. On clinical examination, she was in atrial fibrillation with evidence of the involvement of the mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valves. Transthoracic echocardiography showed the quadrivalvular involvement including pulmonary valves. Only few case reports are available describing rheumatic quadrivalvular damage.
Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients of Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Mehrotra Rahul , Kumar Raj , Bhat Showkat Hussain , Bansal Bharat , Bhagwati Mohit
Published: August 2019

Background:

Approximtely one third of cases of acute ischemic stroke are of undetermined etiology (cryptogenic). Among these cases, cardio embolic tend to be more severe than other causes. Transthoracic echocardiography is used as a standard imaging modality to study structural aspects of heart, however, transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a better and much more yielding modality. The present study was carried out in a tertiary care multispecialty hospital to enumerate the findings on TEE in the patients undergoing TEE for “cryptogenic stroke.”

Methods:

This retrospective observational study was done at our echo lab based on the TEE data of the last 10 years. Sixty-one consecutive adult patients admitted under department of neurology with a diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke and referred for TEE were included in the study.

Results:

Sixty one consecutive patients of cryptogenic acute ischemic stroke undergoing TEE were studied. Overall, 33% patients had grossly normal TEE findings. Patent foramen ovale (PFO) was the commonest abnormal finding present in 36%, atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) in 18% and both PFO and ASA were present in 18%. No statistical difference was noted between young (0-50 years) and elderly patients (>50 years) with respect to inter atrial septum abnormalities. Twenty eight percent had atheroma in descending aorta. Left atrial appendage clot or spontaneous echo contrast was present in 5% and vegetation was present in 5%.

Conclusion:

Dilated left atrium was present in 16% and left ventricular dysfunction was present in 18% of the patients. Our results reinforce the idea of a TEE examination in all patients of ischemic stroke which are not explained by routine clinical evaluation and transthoracic echo.
Type 9 Dual Left Anterior Descending Artery or Triple Left Anterior Descending Artery Anomaly: A Rare Anomaly
Authors: Jariwala Pankaj , Sunnadkal Rajani S.
Published: August 2019

A middle aged patient presented with acute coronary syndrome. Echocardiography showed regional wall abnormality in the left anterior descending artery territory with reduced left ventricular dysfunction. Coronary angiogram showed early division, suggestive of a rare case of dual LAD.
Pericardial Tamponade Due to Main Pulmonary Artery Dissection in a Young Patient with Eisenmenger's Syndrome
Authors: Tandon Rohit , Gupta Hitesh , Wander Gurpreet Singh , Goyal Abhishek
Published: August 2019

Spontaneous pulmonary artery dissection is a rare catastrophic emergency. Its clinical course and natural history is not well studied due to paucity of available cases in the literature, so optimal management guidelines are lacking. Easy availability of bedside echocardiography has made early diagnosis of these near-miss cases possible. We describe a case of a 36-year-old male, a known case of Eisenmenger's syndrome (secondary to unoperated large ventricular septal defect), who presented to us in cardiogenic shock due to spontaneous main pulmonary artery dissection readily diagnosed and confirmed by bedside three-dimensional echocardiography.
О базисах замкнутых классов вектор-функций алгебры логики
Authors: Taimanov V A
Published: August 2019

Рассматривается функциональная система вектор-функций алгебры логики с естественным образом определенной операцией суперпозиции. Показано, что в каждом из замкнутых классов вектор-функций, компонентами которых являются $\alpha$- или $\delta$-функции, существует конечный базис.
Асимптотика моментов числа циклов случайной $A$-подстановки с остаточным членом
Authors: Yakymiv Arsen Lubomirovich
Published: August 2019

Рассматривается случайная подстановка $\tau_n$, имеющая равномерное распределение на множестве всех подстановок степени $n$, длины циклов которых принадлежат фиксированному множеству $A$ (так называемых $A$-подстановок). Найдены асимптотики с остаточным членом для моментов общего числа циклов и числа циклов определeнной длины случайной подстановки $\tau_n$ при $n\to\infty$ в некотором классе множеств $A$.
Insight into the composition of organic compounds ( ≥  C6) in PM2.5 in wintertime in Beijing, China
Authors: Lyu Ruihe , Shi Zongbo , Alam Mohammed Salim , Wu Xuefang , Liu Di , Vu Tuan V. , Stark Christopher , Fu Pingqing , Feng Yinchang , Harrison Roy M.
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Organic matter is a major component of PM2.5 in megacities. In order to
understand the detailed characteristics of organic compounds (≥ C6)
at a molecular level on non-haze and haze days, we determined more than 300
organic compounds in the PM2.5 from an urban area of Beijing
collected in November–December 2016 using two-dimensional gas chromatography
coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC-ToF-MS). The
identified organic compounds have been classified into groups, and
quantitative methods were used to calculate their concentrations. Primary
emission sources make significant contributions to the atmospheric organic
compounds, and six groups (including n-alkanes, polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons – PAHs, levoglucosan, branched alkanes, n-alkenes and
alkyl-benzenes) account for 66 % of total identified organic compound
mass. In addition, PAHs and oxygenated PAHs (O-PAHs) were abundant amongst
the atmospheric organic compounds on both haze and non-haze days. The most
abundant hydrocarbon groups were observed with a carbon atom range of
C19–C28. In addition, the total concentration of unidentified
compounds present in the chromatogram was estimated in the present study.
The total identified compounds account for approximately 47 % of total
organic compounds (≥ C6) in the chromatogram on both the non-haze
and haze days. The total mass concentrations of organic compounds (≥ C6) in the chromatogram were 4.0 and 7.4 µg m−3 on the non-haze and haze days, respectively, accounting for 26.4 %
and 18.5 % of organic matter, respectively, on those days estimated from the
total organic carbon concentration. Ratios of individual compound
concentrations between haze and non-haze days do not give a clear indication
of the degree of oxidation, but the overall distribution of organic
compounds in the chromatogram provides strong evidence that the organic
aerosol is less GC volatile and hence more highly oxidized on haze days.
Ice nucleation properties of K-feldspar polymorphs and plagioclase feldspars
Authors: Welti André , Lohmann Ulrike , Kanji Zamin A.
Published: August 2019

Abstract. The relation between the mineralogical characteristics of
size-selected feldspar particles from 50 to 800 nm and their ability to act
as ice-nucleating particles (INPs) in the immersion mode is presented. Five
polymorph members of K-feldspar (two microclines, orthoclase, adularia and
sanidine) and four plagioclase samples (three labradorites and a pericline
sample) are tested. Microcline was found to be the most active INP in the
immersion mode consistent with previous findings. Samples were selected for
their differences in typical feldspar properties such as crystal structure,
bulk and trace elemental composition, and ordering of the crystal lattice.
The properties mentioned are related to the temperature of feldspar
crystallization from the magma during formation. Properties characteristic of low-temperature feldspar formation coincide with an increased ability to
nucleate ice. Amongst the samples investigated, ice nucleation is most
efficient on the crystallographically ordered, triclinic K-feldspar species
microcline, while the intermediate and disordered monoclinic K-feldspar
polymorphs orthoclase and sanidine nucleate ice at lower temperatures. The
ice nucleation ability of disordered triclinic Na∕Ca-feldspar is comparable
to disordered K-feldspar. The conditions of feldspar rock formation also
leave a chemical fingerprint with varying abundance of trace elements in the
samples. X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy analysis was conducted to determine
metal oxide and trace elemental composition of the feldspar samples. The
analysis revealed a correlation of trace metal abundance with median
freezing temperatures (T50) of the K-feldspar samples allowing us to sort
them for their ice nucleation efficiency according to the abundance of
specific trace elements. A pronounced size dependence of ice nucleation
activity for the feldspar samples is observed, with the activity of smaller-sized particles scaling with surface area or being even higher compared to
larger particles. The size dependence varies for different feldspar samples.
In particular, microcline exhibited immersion freezing even for 50 nm
particles which is unique for heterogeneous ice nucleation of mineral dusts.
This suggests that small microcline particles that are susceptible to
long-range transport can affect cloud properties via immersion freezing far
away from the source. The measurements generally imply that temperatures at
which feldspars can affect cloud glaciation depend on the transported
particle size in addition to the abundance of these particles.
Life cycle assessment of combination of anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis: focusing on different options for biogas use
Authors: Mohammadi Ali ,   G. Venkatesh, Sandberg Maria , Eskandari Samieh , Granström Karin
Published: August 2019

Abstract. The combination of anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis technologies could be a
novel energy-biochar production system to maximize energy and nutrient
recovery from pulp and paper mill sludge. Herein, the life-cycle energy
production and emissions reduction of sludge treatment from a typical pulp
and paper mill were investigated, in which alternative uses of biogas for
industrial or household application, in different regions of the world, were
assessed. The three scenarios considered for different end-uses of biogas
are: (A) biogas for vehicle fuel in the transportation sector in Sweden, (B) biogas for heat and electricity in the power sector in Brazil, and (C) biogas for cooking in households in China. The results of Environmental
Life-Cycle Assessment (E-LCA) show that for all these three scenarios, the
use of biogas and pyrolysis gas contributes most to emissions mitigation,
while the dewatering and drying processes carried out on the sludge,
contribute the most to the environmental emissions. Addition of biochar to
the soil, contributes significantly to a reduction in global warming by
sequestering carbon in the soil. Compared to scenarios B and C, Scenario A,
in which biogas substitutes gasoline in transportation, and heat from
combusted pyrolysis gases is used for district heating in Sweden,
demonstrates the highest environmental performance for all the evaluated
impact categories.
Overshoot dependence on the cross-shock potential
Authors: Gedalin Michael , Zhou Xiaoyan , Russell Christopher T. , Angelopoulos Vassilis
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Coherent downstream oscillations of the magnetic field in shocks are produced due to the coherent ion gyration and quasi-periodic variations of the ion pressure. The amplitude and the positions of the pressure maxima and minima depend on the cross-shock potential and upstream ion temperature. Two critical potentials are defined: the critical gyration potential (CGP) which separates the cases of increase or decrease of the normal velocity of the distribution center, and the critical reflection potential (CRP) above which ion reflection becomes significant. In weak very low β shocks CRP exceeds CGP. For potentials below CGP the first downstream maximum of the magnetic field is shifted farther downstream and is larger than the second one. For higher potentials the first maximum occurs just behind the ramp and is lower than the second one. With the increase of the upstream temperature CGP exceeds the CRP. For potentials below CRP the effects of ion reflection are negligible and the shock profile is similar to that of very low β shocks. If the potential exceeds CRP ion reflection is significant, the magnetic field increase toward the overshoot becomes steeper, and the largest peak occurs at the downstream edge of the ramp.
Atmospheric eddies in Science Centers – connection between secondary school teaching and informal learning
Authors: Király Andrea , Tasnádi Péter
Published: August 2019

Abstract. There are many atmospheric phenomena which can be taught
in the frame of different subjects at secondary schools. Geography and
environmental education characteristically deal with observable natural
phenomena. Some of them can be easily modeled in a school laboratory, but in
spite of this neither the exact (phenomenological) description nor the
theoretical background of these phenomena are given in any of the curricula.
These phenomena include a wide scale of atmospheric and marine whirls. The
beauty and frightening effect of the vortices from dust devils and
waterspouts to hurricanes and cyclones can be a great motivating force for
the students to learn more about the physics of these phenomena. This paper
demonstrates the introductory steps of the elaboration of a learning
material about the atmospheric eddies and shows how can be connected the
formal and non-formal teaching methods. To construct the teaching material
the principles of the MER (Model of Educational Reconstruction) will be
applied (Niebert and Gropengiesser, 2013), having planned the educational
reconstruction of the scientific content we suggest simple conceptual and
mathematical description of atmospheric whirls of tornadic type at secondary
school level.
Attribution of N2O sources in a grassland soil with laser spectroscopy based isotopocule analysis
Authors: Ibraim Erkan , Wolf Benjamin , Harris Eliza , Gasche Rainer , Wei Jing , Yu Longfei , Kiese Ralf , Eggleston Sarah , Butterbach-Bahl Klaus , Zeeman Matthias , Tuzson Béla , Emmenegger Lukas , Six Johan , Henne Stephan , Mohn Joachim
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Nitrous oxide (N2O) is the primary atmospheric constituent involved in
stratospheric ozone depletion and contributes strongly to changes in the
climate system through a positive radiative forcing mechanism. The
atmospheric abundance of N2O has increased from 270 ppb (parts per billion, 10−9 mole mole−1) during the
pre-industrial era to approx. 330 ppb in 2018. Even though it is well known
that microbial processes in agricultural and natural soils are the major
N2O source, the contribution of specific soil processes is still
uncertain. The relative abundance of N2O isotopocules
(14N14N16N, 14N15N16O,
15N14N16O, and 14N14N18O) carries
process-specific information and thus can be used to trace production and
consumption pathways. While isotope ratio mass spectroscopy (IRMS) was
traditionally used for high-precision measurement of the isotopic
composition of N2O, quantum cascade laser absorption spectroscopy
(QCLAS) has been put forward as a complementary technique with the potential
for on-site analysis. In recent years, pre-concentration combined with QCLAS
has been presented as a technique to resolve subtle changes in ambient
N2O isotopic composition. From the end of May until the beginning of August 2016, we investigated
N2O emissions from an intensively managed grassland at the study site
Fendt in southern Germany. In total, 612 measurements of ambient
N2O were taken by combining pre-concentration with QCLAS analyses,
yielding δ15Nα, δ15Nβ,
δ18O, and N2O concentration with a temporal resolution of
approximately 1 h and precisions of 0.46 ‰, 0.36 ‰, 0.59 ‰, and 1.24 ppb,
respectively. Soil δ15N-NO3- values and
concentrations of NO3- and NH4+ were measured to further
constrain possible N2O-emitting source processes. Furthermore, the
concentration footprint area of measured N2O was determined with a
Lagrangian particle dispersion model (FLEXPART-COSMO) using local wind and
turbulence observations. These simulations indicated that night-time
concentration observations were largely sensitive to local fluxes. While
bacterial denitrification and nitrifier denitrification were identified as
the primary N2O-emitting processes, N2O reduction to N2
largely dictated the isotopic composition of measured N2O. Fungal
denitrification and nitrification-derived N2O accounted for 34 %–42 % of total N2O emissions and had a clear effect on the measured
isotopic source signatures. This study presents the suitability of on-site
N2O isotopocule analysis for disentangling source and sink processes
in situ and found that at the Fendt site bacterial denitrification or nitrifier denitrification is the major source for N2O, while N2O
reduction acted as a major sink for soil-produced N2O.
High-throughput screening of sediment bacterial communities from Oxygen Minimum Zones of the northern Indian Ocean
Authors: Lincy Jovitha , Manohar Cathrine
Published: August 2019

Abstract. The Northern Indian Ocean host two recognized Oxygen Minimum Zones (OMZ): one in the Arabian Sea and the other in the Bay of Bengal region. The next-generation sequencing technique was used to understand the total bacterial diversity from the surface sediment of off Goa within the OMZ of Arabian Sea, and from off Paradip within the OMZ of Bay of Bengal. The dominant phyla identified include Firmicutes (33.06 %) and Proteobacteria (32.44 %) from the Arabian Sea, and Proteobacteria (52.51 %) and Planctomycetes (8.63 %) from the Bay of Bengal. Statistical analysis indicates that bacterial diversity from sediments of the Bay of Bengal OMZ is ~ 48 % higher than the Arabian Sea OMZ. Diverse candidate bacterial clades were also detected, whose function is unknown, but many of these were reported from other OMZs as well, suggesting their putative role in sediment biogeochemistry. Bacterial diversity from the present study reveals that the off Paradip site of Bay of Bengal OMZ is highly diverse and unexplored in comparison to the off Goa site of the Arabian Sea OMZ. Functional diversity analysis indicates that the relative percentage distribution of genes involved in methane, nitrogen, sulfur and many unclassified energy metabolisms is almost the same in both sites, reflecting a similar ecological role, irrespective of the differences in phylotypic diversity.
Contribution to the knowledge of early geotechnics during the 20th century: Alec Westley Skempton
Authors: Lara-Galera Antonio , Galindo-Aires Rubén , Guillán-Llorente Gonzalo , Alcaraz Carrillo de Albornoz Vicente
Published: August 2019

Abstract. Sir Alec Westley Skempton (4 June 1914–9 August 2001) was an English
civil engineer and Professor of Soil Mechanics at Imperial College London
from 1955 and Head of Department until he retired in 1981. He is often
referred to as one of the founding fathers of soil mechanics in the UK and
around the world and as one of the most important engineers of the 20th
century. Skempton established the soil mechanics course at Imperial College
London and not only helped to drive forward understanding of soil behaviours
through his research and consultancy work, but also was a reference and
inspiration for several engineering generations he taught. He was knighted at
the New Year's Honours in 2000 for his services as engineer. He was also a
notable contributor to the history of British civil engineering.
The Contribution of Drama in Education to the Development of Skills Improving the Interpersonal Relations of Multicultural Classroom Students
Authors: Mavroudis Nick , Bournelli Pagona
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study is to demonstrate the contribution of a drama in education programme, implemented among students of a multicultural elementary school, to advance skills promoting personal empowerment, develop empathy and collaboration, and to improve their interpersonal relationships. The research is a case study, the tools of which are interviews, observation, researcher’s log, as well as the assessments and self-assessments of students who participated in the processes. The participants are 21 children with various cultural origins, from the lowest financial strata of Greece. The results of this study highlight drama in education as a valuable pedagogical tool that develops a series of qualitative skills necessary in many aspects of everyday life.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 12, No. 9
Authors: Duran Kevin
Published: August 2019

Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Business Research, Vol. 12, No. 8, 2019 issue
The Brand Value in a New Concept of Hotel: The Albergo Diffuso Sextantio Case
Authors: Iannone Barbara , Marcella Liliana
Published: August 2019

The phenomenon of Albergo Diffuso (AD) represents an important development in the competitiveness between destinations and concerns the way in which historical and cultural heritage is used. The concept of AD is a new and innovative meaning of tourism which promotes the sustainable future through the recovery of ancient towns and, in the same time, developes further ways to create entrepreneurship.

The goal of this work consists of the economic valuation model and conceptual defining of brand value referred to one case study of AD, Sextantio. It is made up of two parts: the first consists of a contextualization of one of the traditional formulas of Financial-Standard Method of Brand Value, because of the features of brand value in an economic content; the second part consists of a first classification of elements which are tangible and intangible to a brand of AD, related to the specific elements and based on different key performance indicators (KPI), deriving from elements generally relevant in hospitality tourism, and far more in this new concept than against the traditional concept of tourism.
Relationship Between Teachers’ Workplace Friendship Perceptions and Conflict Management Styles
Authors: Cemaloğlu Necati , Duykuluoğlu Ayhan
Published: August 2019

It can be put forward that workplace friendship has impact on some organizational variables such as organizational commitment, job satisfaction and intentions to leave the job (Morrison, 2005, pp. 152-153). The preferences of the employees can also be influenced by their perceptions about workplace friendship. In this study, it was aimed to find out the predictive levels of employees’ workplace perceptions for their preferences about the conflict management styles. The research was designed as a descriptive survey model. The scales of “workplace friendship” and “Rahim Organizational Conflict Management” were utilized as data collection tools. The correlations among and predictive levels of sub-dimensions of workplace friendship scale for the conflict management styles were analyzed by means of multiple regression analysis. At the end of the analyses, it was found out that the variable of friendship prevalence is a meaningful predictor of conflict management style of integrating, friendship opportunity is a meaningful predictor of compromising style, and friendship prevalence and friendship opportunity variables together are the meaningful predictors of avoiding style.
RADAR TARGET IMITATOR
Authors: Żygadło Stanisław , Grzywiński Stanisław , ACHTENBERG Krzysztof
Published: August 2019

The paper describes a single channel imitator for radar signals which was designed and made practically to generate a signal reflected from an aerial target with
a given trajectory on the intermediate frequency band. Presented setup can be used to verify the analog channel for radar signal processing at intermediate frequencies and the DSP algorithms used to estimate coordinates of the imitated target.
Validation of a Targeted PCR Method for Raw and Processed Botanical Material Identification: An Example Using Matricaria chamomilla (Chamomile)
Authors: Lu Zhengfei , Arrhenius Monika , Chua Tiffany , Babajanian Silva , Zhang Yanjun , Chang Peter , Swanson Gary
Published: August 2019

Background: A requirement of current good manufacturing practices for dietary supplements is that manufacturers must identify their dietary ingredients. DNA-based methods can provide species-level authentication that may sometimes be difficult to achieve using conventional morphological
and chemical analysis methods. However, because of varying levels of DNA degradation in botanical materials, many commercial tests fail to generate consistent test results across all types of botanical materials. AOAC published guidelines for validation of botanical identification methods
and proposed probability of identification (POI) as a method performance parameter. However, few DNA-based botanical authentication methods in the literature follow these guidelines and evaluate POI. Objective: To provide a targeted PCR method validation example that follows AOAC guidelines
for validation of botanical identification methods. Methods: Using Matricaria chamomilla (chamomile) as an example, we performed a single-laboratory validation for a targeted PCR method that aimed to identify both raw and processed chamomile materials. The performance parameters
of the test were evaluated by carrying out an inclusivity/exclusivity study and a Specified Superior Test Material/Specified Inferior Test Material study to demonstrate that the method’s POI meets industry requirements. Results: The chamomile samples were identified by the method
and achieved a POI greater than 0.9 with respect to all types of chamomile botanical materials. Conclusions: The method was validated for DNA-based identification of raw and processed chamomile materials, such as sterilized powders and extracts. Highlights: This work will provide
insight for laboratories and manufacturers that aim to develop and validate DNA-based botanical identification methods.
Successful ankle replantation in two cases with different presentations
Authors: Wen Adzim Poh Yuen , Jusoh Mohd Hanifah , Saad Arman Zaharil Mat , Halim Ahmad Sukari , Faisham Nu'man Wan Ismail Wan , Azman Wan Sulaiman Wan
Published: August 2019

We report our experience of treating two patients with ankle amputation with different presentations. The first case was a clean-cut sharp amputation. The second case was an avulsion injury following a motor vehicle accident in a patient who arrived 8 hours after the injury. Replantation was successful in both cases. In avulsion injuries, a secondary operation for wound coverage is required at a later stage. With good strategy and a support team, encouraging limb survival outcomes are possible post-replantation.