bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting heat recovery and reuse in industrial zone
Authors: Zaric Milana , Stijepovic Mirko , Linke Patrick , Stajic-Trosic Jasna , Bugarski Branko , Kijevcanin Mirjana
Published: March 2016

In order to reduce the usage of fossil fuels in industrial sectors by meeting the requirements of production processes, new heat integration and heat recovery approaches are developed. The goal of this study is to develop an approach to increase energy efficiency of an industrial zone by recovering and reusing waste heat via indirect heat integration. Industrial zones usually consist of multiple independent plants, where each plant is supplied by an independent utility system, as a decentralized system. In this study, a new approach is developed to target minimum energy requirements where an industrial zone would be supplied by a centralized utility system instead of decentralized utility system. The approach assumes that all process plants in an industrial zone are linked through the central utility system. This method is formulated as a linear programming problem (LP). Moreover, the proposed method may be used for decision making related to energy integration strategy of an industrial zone. In addition, the proposed method was applied on a case study. The results revealed that saving of fossil fuel could be achieved.
Calcium oxide based catalysts for biodiesel production: A review
Authors: Kesic Zeljka , Lukic Ivana , Zdujic Miodrag , Mojovic Ljiljana , Skala Dejan
Published: March 2016

Vegetable oils are mainly esters of fatty acids and glycerol, which can be
converted to fatty acid methyl esters (FAME), also known as biodiesel, by the
transesterification reaction with methanol. In order to attain environmental
benignity, a large attention has been focused in the last decades on
utilizing heterogeneous catalysts for biodiesel production instead the
homogenously catalyzed transesterification of vegetable oil. The pure CaO or
CaO mixed with some other metal oxide due to its low solubility in methanol,
FAME and glycerol, low cost and availability is one of the most promising
among the proposed heterogeneous catalysts. Solid catalysts which contain CaO
usually fulfill a number of important requirements, such as high activity at
mild temperature, marginal leaching of Ca cations, long life activity,
reusability in transesterification of vegetable oil and easy recovery from
the final products of transesterification (FAME and glycerol). This review is
focused to the recent application of pure CaO or CaO in complex catalyst
structure and their use as heterogeneous base catalysts for biodiesel
synthesis and suitability for industrial application.
Manganese carbonate-zinc glycerolate, synthesis, characterization and application as catalyst for transesterification of soybean oil
Authors: Zhu Xiaochan , Liu Hui , Skala Dejan
Published: March 2016

In this study, mixed system containing manganese carbonate (MnCO3) and zinc
glycerolate (ZnGly) was synthesized, and tested as solid catalyst for
transesterification of soybean oil and biodiesel production. The samples of
MnCO3/ZnGly before and after usage for transesterification process were
characterized using different techniques: determination of basic strength,
determination of specific surface area according to Brunauer-Emmett-Teller
(BET), measuring the mass change using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA),
investigating the solid phase content and presence of different specific
elements and groups by X-Ray diffraction (XRD), the Fourier transform
infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with
energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The effects of different working
parameters of transesterification were also investigated: temperature
(438-458K), duration of transesterification (0-3.5h), methanol to oil molar
ratio (12:1-36:1) and used amounts of catalyst (1-5 mass%). The reusability
and stability of MnCO3/ZnGly were analyzed and obtained results showed that
MnCO3/ZnGly exhibited a good activity with 100% TG conversion and 81.5% FAME
yield with fresh catalyst, and can give 95-100% TG conversion and 62-78% FAME
yield after 13 repeated use of same amount of catalyst without regeneration
processes. Content of Mn and Zn in biodiesel and glycerol was analyzed by
ICP-AAS after each reuse of catalyst.
M-Mode Ultrasound Reveals Earlier Gluteus Minimus Activity in Individuals With Chronic Hip Pain During a Step-down Task
Authors: Dieterich Angela V. , Deshon Louise , Strauss Geoffrey R. , McKay Jan , Pickard Christine M.
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Background

The hip abductor muscles are important hip joint stabilizers. Hip joint pain may alter muscle recruitment. Motion-mode (M-mode) ultrasound enables noninvasive measurements of the onset of deep and superficial muscle motion, which is associated with activation onset.

Objectives

To compare (1) the onset of superficial and deep gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscle motion relative to the instant of peak ground reaction force and (2) the level of swing-phase muscle motion during step-down between subjects with chronic hip pain and controls using M-mode ultrasound.

Methods

Thirty-five subjects with anterior, nontraumatic hip pain for more than 6 months (mean ± SD age, 54 ± 9 years) and 35 controls (age, 57 ± 7 years) were scanned on the lateral hip of the leading leg during frontal step-down onto a force platform using M-mode ultrasound. Computerized motion detection with the Teager-Kaiser energy operator was applied on the gluteus minimus and the deep and superficial gluteus medius to determine the time lag between muscle motion onset and instant of peak ground reaction force and the level of gluteus minimus motion during the swing phase. Time lags and motion levels were averaged per subject, and t tests were used to determine between-group differences.

Results

In participants with hip pain, gluteus minimus motion onset was 103 milliseconds earlier (P = .002) and superficial gluteus medius motion was 70 milliseconds earlier (P = .047) than those in healthy control participants. The level of gluteus minimus swing-phase motion was higher with pain (P = .006).

Conclusion

Increased gluteus minimus motion during the swing phase and earlier gluteus minimus and superficial gluteus medius motion in individuals with hip pain suggest an overall increase of muscle activity, possibly a protective behavior. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):277–285. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6132
Cervico-occipital Posture in Women With Migraine: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Ferracini Gabriela Natália , Dach Fabíola , Chaves Thais Cristina , Pinheiro Carina Ferreira , Bevilaqua-Grossi Débora , Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Speciali José Geraldo
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Case-control study.

Background

Previous studies have assessed forward head posture in patients with migraine using photographs. To date, no study has compared postural differences using both radiographs and photographs.

Objective

To determine the differences in head extension posture between women with migraine and healthy women assessed with radiographic and photographic measures.

Methods

Thirty-three women (mean ± SD age, 32 ± 11.3 years) with migraine and 33 matched controls (age, 33 ± 12.6 years) participated. Radiographs were used to measure the high cervical angle (HCA), the angle between the most inferior line from the occipital surface to the posterior portion of C1 and the posterior surface of the odontoid process of C2, and the vertical distance between C0 and C1 (C0–C1). Photographs and commercially available software were used to assess the craniovertebral angle (CVA).

Results

None of the outcomes differed significantly between women with migraine and control participants. Outcomes for women with migraine were HCA, 66.1° (95% confidence interval [CI]: 64.2°, 68.1°); CVA, 46.1° (95% CI: 45.0°, 47.1°); and C0–C1, 8.5 mm (95% CI: 7.7, 9.2). Outcomes for the control group were HCA, 67.9° (95% CI: 66.5°, 69.3°); CVA, 44.5° (95% CI: 43.2°, 45.7°); and C0–C1, 8.7 mm (95% CI: 7.9, 9.4). Relationships between the frequency (r = −0.42, P = .01, R 2 = 10%) of migraine and the HCA were found.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that women with migraine did not exhibit forward head posture compared to women with no history of headache in either radiographic or photographic postural analysis. However, there was a weak association of the frequency of migraine attacks with a variation in the HCA as assessed by radiographs.

Level of Evidence

Differential diagnosis/symptom prevalence, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):251–257. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6166
Reduced Physical Activity in People Following Ankle Fractures: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Beckenkamp Paula R. , Lin Chung-Wei Christine , Engelen Lina , Moseley Anne M.
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Longitudinal observational cohort.

Background

The impact of ankle fracture on physical activity and sitting time and the course of recovery of physical activity are unclear.

Objectives

To assess the course of recovery of physical activity after ankle fracture and the extent to which this population may be less physically active and more sedentary than the general population.

Methods

A cohort of individuals with ankle fracture was derived from a randomized trial and assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF) at immobilization removal and 1, 3, and 6 months later. Total metabolic equivalent (MET) minutes per week were calculated to evaluate the course of recovery of physical activity. Sitting time (minutes per day) and the percentage of those who met the World Health Organization physical activity guidelines were calculated. Normative data were derived from a population-based cohort study that assessed physical activity using the IPAQ-SF.

Results

In people with ankle fracture (n = 214), physical activity increased in the first month (from a median of 99 at immobilization removal to 979 MET min/wk) and leveled off by 6 months (1386 MET min/wk). Only 22% of the ankle fracture cohort met World Health Organization guidelines at immobilization removal, compared to 80% of the cohort from the general population (P<.001). This difference diminished over time. Sitting time in the ankle fracture cohort was higher than population norms at all time points (P<.001).

Conclusion

People with ankle fracture are less physically active and more sedentary than the general population. Strategies to increase physical activity must be considered.

Level of Evidence

Prognosis, level 4. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):235–242. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6297
A Prescriptively Selected Nonthrust Manipulation Versus a Therapist-Selected Nonthrust Manipulation for Treatment of Individuals With Low Back Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Donaldson Megan , Petersen Shannon , Cook Chad , Learman Ken
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Background

Several studies that have investigated the effects of a therapist-selected versus a randomly assigned segmental approach have looked at immediate effects only for pain-related outcomes.

Objectives

To examine differences in outcomes following a therapist-selected nonthrust manipulation versus a prescriptively selected nonthrust manipulation in subjects with low back pain.

Methods

Subjects with mechanically producible low back pain were randomly treated with nonthrust manipulation in a therapist-selected approach or a prescriptively selected approach. All subjects received a standardized home exercise program. Outcome measures included pain, disability, global rating of change, and patient acceptable symptom state. Analyses of covariance, chi-square tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to determine differences between groups.

Results

Sixty-three subjects were tracked for 6 months, during which subjects in both groups significantly improved. There were no differences between groups in pain, disability, or patient acceptable symptom state scores at 6 months. There was a significant difference in global rating of change scores favoring the therapist-selected manipulation group at 6 months.

Conclusion

This study measured long-term differences between a prescriptively selected nonthrust manipulation and a therapist-selected approach to nonthrust manipulation. In pain, disability, and patient acceptable symptom state there were no differences in outcomes, findings similar to studies of immediate effects. After 6 months, perceived well-being was significantly higher for those in the therapist-selected treatment group. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01940744).

Level of Evidence

Therapy, level 1b. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):243–250. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6318
Shedding Light on the Etiology of Sports Injuries: A Look Behind the Scenes of Time-to-Event Analyses
Authors: Nielsen Rasmus Østergaard , Malisoux Laurent , Møller Merete , Theisen Daniel , Parner Erik Thorlund
Published: March 2016

Synopsis

The etiological mechanism underpinning any sports-related injury is complex and multifactorial. Frequently, athletes perceive “excessive training” as the principal factor in their injury, an observation that is biologically plausible yet somewhat ambiguous. If the applied training load is suddenly increased, this may increase the risk for sports injury development, irrespective of the absolute amount of training. Indeed, little to no rigorous scientific evidence exists to support the hypothesis that fluctuations in training load, compared to absolute training load, are more important in explaining sports injury development. One reason for this could be that prospective data from scientific studies should be analyzed in a different manner. Time-to-event analysis is a useful statistical tool in which to analyze the influence of changing exposures on injury risk. However, the potential of time-to-event analysis remains insufficiently exploited in sports injury research. Therefore, the purpose of the present article was to present and discuss measures of association used in time-to-event analyses and to present the advanced concept of time-varying exposures and outcomes. In the paper, different measures of association, such as cumulative relative risk, cumulative risk difference, and the classical hazard rate ratio, are presented in a nontechnical manner, and suggestions for interpretation of study results are provided. To summarize, time-to-event analysis complements the statistical arsenal of sports injury prevention researchers, because it enables them to analyze the complex and highly dynamic reality of injury etiology, injury recurrence, and time to recovery across a range of sporting contexts. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(4):300–311. Epub 8 Mar 2016. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.6510
Compression apparel does not have an acute effect on quadriceps strength but is associated with changes in muscle activation patterns
Authors: Zhang Shen , Fu Weijie , Xia Rui , Wang Xi
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND:

The mechanism by which increased compression affects muscle strength and electromyographic (EMG) time/frequency domain behavior during prolonged muscle actions has yet to be elucidated.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the effectiveness of compression on quadriceps strength and endurance and EMG amplitude/frequency of the quadriceps during repeated concentric muscle contractions.

METHODS:

Twelve healthy male athletes executed 25 maximal repeated isokinetic knee extensions in compression garment (CG) and control condition(CC) at 60 and 300°/s on a dynamometer. The EMG time and frequency domain behavior of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), and vastus medialis were collected synchronously.

RESULTS:

Compression exerted no significant effect on peak moment and total work during the isokinetic contractions. By contrast, the overall EMG root mean square amplitude was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in CG than in CC while the EMG mean power frequency of the RF and VL was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in CG than in CC at 60°/s.

CONCLUSION:

The described effects may potentially improve muscle endurance and fatigue resistance during prolonged muscle actions.
Authenticity and Restoration: The Benefits of Historical Studies on Re-Examining the Implemented Restorations in Persepolis
Authors: Motamedmanesh Mahdi
Published: March 2016

Preserving the authenticity of historical monuments is an inseparable part of restoration activities that has always been asserted by the international principles of historical preservation. However, the local condition of historical sites may influence such a primitive intention of restorers. While historical documents are appropriate sources which can provide restorers with the real condition of ancient structures in the course of time, investigation through these precious materials is a time-consuming process and the reliability of these old evidences is, itself, a challenging issue. The Italian Institute for Middle and Far East (IsMEO) missioned long-term restoration activities in Persepolis between 1964 and the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Generally, this institute is praised for this series of projects. In this paper, the author questions the historical authenticity of restoration activities missioned by this institute in a structure so-called The Gate of All Nations. Indeed, the restoration of this structure was influenced by the 2500th anniversary of the Persian Empire, which was held in Persepolis in 1971. By tracing the context of historical evidences and presenting a method for obtaining the authenticity of these documents, this paper demonstrates a new perspective towards the arrangement of a stone-made capital, which ornaments the uppermost part of a re-erected ancient column.
Zebrafish Models of Prader-Willi Syndrome: Fast Track to Pharmacotherapeutics
Authors: Spikol Emma , Laverriere Caroline , Robnett Maya , Carter Gabriela , Wolfe Erin , Glasgow Eric
Published: March 2016

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by an insatiable appetite, leading to chronic overeating and obesity. Additional features include short stature, intellectual disability, behavioral problems and incomplete sexual development. Although significant progress has been made in understanding the genetic basis of PWS, the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of the disorder remain poorly understood. Treatment for PWS consists mainly of palliative therapies; curative therapies are sorely needed. Zebrafish, Danio rerio, represent a promising way forward for elucidating physiological problems such as obesity and identifying new pharmacotherapeutic options for PWS. Over the last decade, an increased appreciation for the highly conserved biology among vertebrates and the ability to perform high-throughput drug screening has seen an explosion in the use of zebrafish for disease modeling and drug discovery. Here, we review recent advances in developing zebrafish models of human disease. Aspects of zebrafish genetics and physiology that are relevant to PWS will be discussed, and the advantages and disadvantages of zebrafish models will be contrasted with current animal models for this syndrome. Finally, we will present a paradigm for drug screening in zebrafish that is potentially the fastest route for identifying and delivering curative pharmacotherapies to PWS patients.
Entropy Production in the Theory of Heat Conduction in Solids
Authors: Zullo Federico
Published: March 2016

The evolution of the entropy production in solids due to heat transfer is usually associated with the Prigogine’s minimum entropy production principle. In this paper, we propose a critical review of the results of Prigogine and some comments on the succeeding literature. We suggest a characterization of the evolution of the entropy production of the system through the generalized Fourier modes, showing that they are the only states with a time independent entropy production. The variational approach and a Lyapunov functional of the temperature, monotonically decreasing with time, are discussed. We describe the analytic properties of the entropy production as a function of time in terms of the generalized Fourier coefficients of the system. Analytical tools are used throughout the paper and numerical examples will support the statements.
Evaluation of Cell Disruption of Chlorella Vulgaris by Pressure-Assisted Ozonation and Ultrasonication
Authors: Huang Yuanxing , Qin Shengnan , Zhang Daofang , Li Liang , Mu Yan
Published: March 2016

This study evaluated the effectiveness of pressure-assisted ozonation (PAO) in Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) cell disruption, and compared the disruption result with that of the ultrasonication (US) by using four quantification indicators: cell counting, ultra violet (UV) absorbance, turbidity and visible light absorbance. It was found that under the condition of 0.8 MPa and 80 cycles, PAO treatment achieved cell rupture of 80.3%, with the power of 1080 W and treatment time of 60 min, US achieved cell rupture of 83.8%. Cell counting was a reliable indicator and applicable to both PAO and US treatments. Turbidity and visible light absorbance gave similar results and featured as the simplest operation. UV absorbance reflected the metabolite release due to cell breakage; however, it was less reproducible when it was applied to quantify the cell rupture by PAO. Its trend indicated that during cell disruption metabolite degradation occurred, especially after significant rupture in the case of excessive PAO treatment. The cellular morphology of C. vulgaris cells during PAO and US treatments was investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) which certified that the cells damage was caused by both physical and chemical attack.
Immunotoxicity Monitoring in a Population Exposed to Polychlorinated Biphenyls
Authors: Haase Hajo , Fahlenkamp Astrid , Schettgen Thomas , Esser Andre , Gube Monika , Ziegler Patrick , Kraus Thomas , Rink Lothar
Published: March 2016

The relationship between polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) burden and several indicators of immune function was investigated as part of the HELPcB (Health Effects in High-Level Exposure to PCB) program, offering bio-monitoring to workers, relatives, and neighbors exposed to PCBs by a German transformers and capacitors recycling company. The present retrospective observational study evaluates the correlation of plasma levels of total PCBs, five indicator congeners (28, 101, 138, 153, 180), and seven dioxin-like congeners (105, 114, 118, 156, 157, 167, 189) with several parameters of immune function. The cross-sectional study was performed immediately after the end of exposure (258 subjects), and one (218 subjects), and two (177 subjects) years later. At the first time point, measurements showed significant positive correlation between congeners with low to medium chlorination and the relative proportion of CD19 positive B-cells among lymphocytes, as well as a negative correlation of PCB114 with serum IgM, and of PCB 28 with suppressor T-cell and NK-cell numbers. Congeners with a high degree of chlorination, in particular PCB157 and 189, were positively associated with expression of the activation marker CD25 on T-cells in the cohort of the second time point. No associations between PCB levels and IFN-y production by T-cells and killing by NK-cells were found. In conclusion, there were several effects on the cellular composition of adaptive immunity, affecting both T- and B-cells. However, the values were not generally outside the reference ranges for healthy adult individuals and did not indicate overt functional immunodeficiency, even in subjects with the uppermost PCB burden.
Study on the Effects of Irrigation with Reclaimed Water on the Content and Distribution of Heavy Metals in Soil
Authors: Lu Shibao , Wang Jianhua , Pei Liang
Published: March 2016

Reclaimed water is an important resource for irrigation, and exploration in making full use of it is an important way to alleviate water shortage. This paper analyzes the effects of irrigation with reclaimed water through field trials on the content and distribution of heavy metals in both tomatoes and the soil. By exploring the effects of reclaimed water after secondary treatment on the content and distribution characteristics of heavy metals in tomatoes and the heavy metal balance in the soil-crop system under different conditions, the study shows that there are no significant differences in the heavy metal content when the quantity of reclaimed water for irrigation varies. Reclaimed water for short-term irrigation does not cause pollution to either the soil environment or the crops. Nor will it cause the accumulation of heavy metals, and the index for the heavy metal content is far below the critical value of the national standard, which indicates that the vegetables irrigated with reclaimed water during their growth turn out to be free of pollutants. The heavy metals brought into the soil by reclaimed water are less than that taken away by the crops. The input and output quantities have only small effects on the heavy metal balance in the soil. This paper provides a reference for the evaluation and safety control of irrigation with reclaimed water.
Proteomic Analysis Reveals the Leaf Color Regulation Mechanism in Chimera Hosta “Gold Standard” Leaves
Authors: Yu Juanjuan , Zhang Jinzheng , Zhao Qi , Liu Yuelu , Chen Sixue , Guo Hongliang , Shi Lei , Dai Shaojun
Published: March 2016

Leaf color change of variegated leaves from chimera species is regulated by fine-tuned molecular mechanisms. Hosta “Gold Standard” is a typical chimera Hosta species with golden-green variegated leaves, which is an ideal material to investigate the molecular mechanisms of leaf variegation. In this study, the margin and center regions of young and mature leaves from Hosta “Gold Standard”, as well as the leaves from plants after excess nitrogen fertilization were studied using physiological and comparative proteomic approaches. We identified 31 differentially expressed proteins in various regions and development stages of variegated leaves. Some of them may be related to the leaf color regulation in Hosta “Gold Standard”. For example, cytosolic glutamine synthetase (GS1), heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70), and chloroplastic elongation factor G (cpEF-G) were involved in pigment-related nitrogen synthesis as well as protein synthesis and processing. By integrating the proteomics data with physiological results, we revealed the metabolic patterns of nitrogen metabolism, photosynthesis, energy supply, as well as chloroplast protein synthesis, import and processing in various leaf regions at different development stages. Additionally, chloroplast-localized proteoforms involved in nitrogen metabolism, photosynthesis and protein processing implied that post-translational modifications were crucial for leaf color regulation. These results provide new clues toward understanding the mechanisms of leaf color regulation in variegated leaves.
Kidney Function as a Determinant of HDL and Triglyceride Concentrations in the Australian Population
Authors: Thompson Michael , Ray Udayan , Yu Richard , Hudspeth Andrew , Smillie Michael , Jordan Neville , Bartle Janet
Published: March 2016

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a potent risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD risk increases in a stepwise manner with increasing kidney impairment and is significantly reduced by kidney transplantation, suggesting a causal relationship. Dyslipidemia, a well recognised CVD risk factor, is highly prevalent in CKD. While dyslipidemia is a risk factor for CKD, kidney impairment can also induce a dyslipidemic state that may contribute to the excess burden of CVD in CKD. We utilised a multipronged approach to determine whether a causal relationship exists. Materials and Methods: Retrospective case-control analysis of 816 patients admitted to the Royal Hobart Hospital in 2008–2009 with different degrees of kidney impairment and retrospective before-after cohort analysis of 60 patients who received a transplanted kidney between 1999 and 2009. Results: Decreased estimated GFR (eGFR) was independently associated with decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL, p < 0.0001) and increased triglyceride concentrations (p < 0.01) in multivariate analysis. There was no significant relationship between eGFR and low density lipoprotein (LDL) or total cholesterol in multivariate analysis. Kidney transplantation increased HDL (p < 0.0001) and decreased triglyceride (p = 0.007) concentration, whereas there was no significant change in LDL and total cholesterol. These effects were dependent on maintenance of graft function, statin therapy (those who were on) if graft failure occurred then HDL again decreased and triglycerides increased. Conclusions: Kidney transplantation ameliorated alterations in plasma lipoprotein profile associated with kidney impairment, an effect that was dependent on the maintenance of graft function. These data suggest that kidney function is a determinant of HDL and triglyceride concentrations in patients with CKD.
Bioprospecting of Marine Macrophytes Using MS-Based Lipidomics as a New Approach
Authors: Maciel Elisabete , Leal Miguel , Lillebø Ana , Domingues Pedro , Domingues Maria , Calado Ricardo
Published: March 2016

The marine environment supports a remarkable diversity of organisms which are a potential source of natural products with biological activities. These organisms include a wide variety of marine plants (from micro- to macrophytes), which have been used in the food and pharmaceutical industry. However, the biochemistry and biological activities of many of these macrophytes (namely macroalgae and halophytes, including seagrasses) are still far from being fully explored. Most popular bioactive components include polysaccharides, peptides, phenolics and fatty acids (FAs). Polar lipids (glycolipids, phospholipids and betaine lipids) are emerging as novel value-added bioactive phytochemicals, rich in n-3 FA, with high nutritional value and health beneficial effects for the prevention of chronic diseases. Polar lipids account various combinations of polar groups, fatty acyl chains and backbone structures. The polar lipidome of macrophytes is remarkably diverse, and its screening represents a significant analytical challenge. Modern research platforms, particularly mass spectrometry (MS)-based lipidomic approaches, have been recently used to address this challenge and are here reviewed. The application of lipidomics to address lipid composition of marine macrophytes will contribute to the stimulation of further research on this group and foster the exploration of novel applications.
Composition and Formation of Gabbro-Peridotite Hosted Seafloor Massive Sulfide Deposits from the Ashadze-1 Hydrothermal Field, Mid-Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Firstova Anna , Stepanova Tamara , Cherkashov Georgy , Goncharov Alexey , Babaeva Svetlana
Published: March 2016

This paper presents mineralogical and geochemical data on seafloor massive sulfides (SMS) from the Ashadze-1 hydrothermal field at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR). The Ashadze-1 deposit is associated with the uplifted lower crust and upper mantle (oceanic core complex, OCC) of the MAR segment characterized by asymmetric mode of accretion. The OCC is represented by deep-seated gabbro-peridotite rocks exhumed on the rift valley slope along the detachment fault, during seafloor spreading. Hydrothermal processes in OCC environments result in different deposit composition and morphology compared to basalt-hosted systems. Abundant chimneys and enrichment in particular metals, including copper, zinc, gold, cobalt and tin are typical for this type of SMS deposit. The Ashadze-1 deposit is considered an example of a hydrothermal system in the initial stage of evolution marked by the young age of the sulfides (<7.2 kyr). The mineralogy of Ashadze-1 reflects primary ore-forming processes unaffected by post formation alteration. We propose a model for the primary ore-forming hydrothermal process in an ultramafic-hosted environment on the modern seafloor.
Integrated Analysis of Productivity and Biodiversity in a Southern Alberta Prairie
Authors: Wang Ran , Gamon John , Emmerton Craig , Li Haitao , Nestola Enrica , Pastorello Gilberto , Menzer Olaf
Published: March 2016

Grasslands play important roles in ecosystem production and support a large farming and grazing industry. An accurate and efficient way is needed to estimate grassland health and production for monitoring and adjusting management to get sustainable products and other ecosystem services. Previous studies of grasslands have shown varying relationships between productivity and biodiversity, with most showing either a positive or a hump-shaped relationship where productivity peaks at intermediate diversity. In this study, we used airborne imaging spectrometry combined with ground sampling and eddy covariance measurements to estimate the spatial pattern of production and biodiversity for two sites of contrasting productivity in a southern Alberta prairie ecosystem. Resulting patterns revealed that more diverse sites generally had greater productivity, supporting the hypothesis of a positive relationship between production and biodiversity for this site. We showed that the addition of evenness to richness (using the Shannon Index of dominant species instead of the number of dominant species alone) improved the correlation with optical diversity, an optically derived metric of biodiversity based on the coefficient of variation in spectral reflectance across space. Similarly, the Shannon Index was better correlated with productivity (estimated via NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index)) than the number of dominant species alone. Optical diversity provided a potent proxy for other more traditional biodiversity metrics (richness and Shannon index). Coupling field measurements and imaging spectrometry provides a method for assessing grassland productivity and biodiversity at a larger scale than can be sampled from the ground, and allows the integrated analysis of the productivity–biodiversity relationship over large areas.
Downscaling of MODIS One Kilometer Evapotranspiration Using Landsat-8 Data and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Ke Yinghai , Im Jungho , Park Seonyoung , Gong Huili
Published: March 2016

This study presented a MODIS 8-day 1 km evapotranspiration (ET) downscaling method based on Landsat 8 data (30 m) and machine learning approaches. Eleven indicators including albedo, land surface temperature (LST), and vegetation indices (VIs) derived from Landsat 8 data were first upscaled to 1 km resolution. Machine learning algorithms including Support Vector Regression (SVR), Cubist, and Random Forest (RF) were used to model the relationship between the Landsat indicators and MODIS 8-day 1 km ET. The models were then used to predict 30 m ET based on Landsat 8 indicators. A total of thirty-two pairs of Landsat 8 images/MODIS ET data were evaluated at four study sites including two in United States and two in South Korea. Among the three models, RF produced the lowest error, with relative Root Mean Square Error (rRMSE) less than 20%. Vegetation greenness related indicators such as Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), and vegetation moisture related indicators such as Normalized Difference Infrared Index—Landsat 8 OLI band 7 (NDIIb7) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) were the five most important features used in RF model. Temperature-based indicators were less important than vegetation greenness and moisture-related indicators because LST could have considerable variation during each 8-day period. The predicted Landsat downscaled ET had good overall agreement with MODIS ET (average rRMSE = 22%) and showed a similar temporal trend as MODIS ET. Compared to the MODIS ET product, the downscaled product demonstrated more spatial details, and had better agreement with in situ ET observations (R2 = 0.56). However, we found that the accuracy of MODIS ET was the main control factor of the accuracy of the downscaled product. Improved coarse-resolution ET estimation would result in better finer-resolution estimation. This study proved the potential of using machine learning approaches for ET downscaling considering their effectiveness and ease of implementation. Future research includes development of the spatial-temporal fusion models of Landsat data and MODIS ET in order to increase temporal resolution of downscaled ET.
Recycling Endosomes and Viral Infection
Authors: Vale-Costa Sílvia , Amorim Maria
Published: March 2016

Many viruses exploit specific arms of the endomembrane system. The unique composition of each arm prompts the development of remarkably specific interactions between viruses and sub-organelles. This review focuses on the viral–host interactions occurring on the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC), and mediated by its regulatory Ras-related in brain (Rab) GTPase Rab11. This protein regulates trafficking from the ERC and the trans-Golgi network to the plasma membrane. Such transport comprises intricate networks of proteins/lipids operating sequentially from the membrane of origin up to the cell surface. Rab11 is also emerging as a critical factor in an increasing number of infections by major animal viruses, including pathogens that provoke human disease. Understanding the interplay between the ERC and viruses is a milestone in human health. Rab11 has been associated with several steps of the viral lifecycles by unclear processes that use sophisticated diversified host machinery. For this reason, we first explore the state-of-the-art on processes regulating membrane composition and trafficking. Subsequently, this review outlines viral interactions with the ERC, highlighting current knowledge on viral-host binding partners. Finally, using examples from the few mechanistic studies available we emphasize how ERC functions are adjusted during infection to remodel cytoskeleton dynamics, innate immunity and membrane composition.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci for Haumania danckelmaniana and transferability to H. liebrechtsiana (Marantaceae)
Authors: Ley Alexandra C. , Hardy Olivier J.
Published: March 2016

Premise of the study:

Microsatellite markers were developed for the species Haumania danckelmaniana (Marantaceae) from central tropical Africa.

Methods and Results:

Microsatellite isolation was performed simultaneously on three different species of Marantaceae through a procedure that combines multiplex microsatellite enrichment and next‐generation sequencing. From 80 primers selected for initial screening, 20 markers positively amplified in H. danckelmaniana, of which 10 presented unambiguous amplification products within the expected size range and eight were polymorphic with four to nine alleles per locus. Positive transferability with the related species H. liebrechtsiana was observed for the same 10 markers.

Conclusions:

The polymorphic microsatellite markers are suitable for studies in genetic diversity and structure, mating system, and gene flow in H. danckelmaniana and the closely related species H. liebrechtsiana.
LITHIUM-RICH GIANTS IN GLOBULAR CLUSTERS*
Authors: Kirby Evan N. , Guhathakurta Puragra , Zhang Andrew J. , Hong Jerry , Guo Michelle , Guo Rachel , Cohen Judith G. , Cunha Katia
Published: March 2016

Although red giants deplete lithium on their surfaces, some giants are Li-rich. Intermediate-mass asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars can generate Li through the Cameron–Fowler conveyor, but the existence of Li-rich, low-mass red giant branch (RGB) stars is puzzling. Globular clusters are the best sites to examine this phenomenon because it is straightforward to determine membership in the cluster and to identify the evolutionary state of each star. In 72 hours of Keck/DEIMOS exposures in 25 clusters, we found four Li-rich RGB and two Li-rich AGB stars. There were 1696 RGB and 125 AGB stars with measurements or upper limits consistent with normal abundances of Li. Hence, the frequency of Li-richness in globular clusters is (0.2 ± 0.1)% for the RGB, (1.6 ± 1.1)% for the AGB, and (0.3 ± 0.1)% for all giants. Because the Li-rich RGB stars are on the lower RGB, Li self-generation mechanisms proposed to occur at the luminosity function bump or He core flash cannot explain these four lower RGB stars. We propose the following origin for Li enrichment: (1) All luminous giants experience a brief phase of Li enrichment at the He core flash. (2) All post-RGB stars with binary companions on the lower RGB will engage in mass transfer. This scenario predicts that 0.1% of lower RGB stars will appear Li-rich due to mass transfer from a recently Li-enhanced companion. This frequency is at the lower end of our confidence interval.
STABILITY OF GAS CLOUDS IN GALACTIC NUCLEI: AN EXTENDED VIRIAL THEOREM
Authors: Chen Xian , Amaro-Seoane Pau , Cuadra Jorge
Published: March 2016

Cold gas entering the central 1–102 pc of a galaxy fragments and condenses into clouds. The stability of the clouds determines whether they will be turned into stars or can be delivered to the central supermassive black hole (SMBH) to turn on an active galactic nucleus (AGN). The conventional criteria to assess the stability of these clouds, such as the Jeans criterion and Roche (or tidal) limit, are insufficient here, because they assume the dominance of self-gravity in binding a cloud, and neglect external agents, such as pressure and tidal forces, which are common in galactic nuclei. We formulate a new scheme for judging this stability. We first revisit the conventional Virial theorem, taking into account an external pressure, to identify the correct range of masses that lead to stable clouds. We then extend the theorem to further include an external tidal field, which is equally crucial for the stability in the region of our interest—in dense star clusters, around SMBHs. We apply our extended Virial theorem to find new solutions to controversial problems, namely, the stability of the gas clumps in AGN tori, the circum-nuclear disk in the Galactic Center, and the central molecular zone of the Milky Way. The masses we derive for these structures are orders of magnitude smaller than the commonly used Virial masses (equivalent to the Jeans mass). Moreover, we prove that these clumps are stable, contrary to what one would naively deduce from the Roche (tidal) limit.
SEARCH FOR GAMMA-RAY EMISSION FROM THE COMA CLUSTER WITH SIX YEARS OF FERMI-LAT DATA
Authors: Ackermann M. , Ajello M. , Albert A. , Atwood W. B. , Baldini L. , Ballet J. , Barbiellini G. , Bastieri D. , Bechtol K. , Bellazzini R. , Bissaldi E. , Blandford R. D. , Bloom E. D. , Bonino R. , Bottacini E. , Bregeon J. , Bruel P. , Buehler R. , Caliandro G. A. , Cameron R. A. , Caragiulo M. , Caraveo P. A. , Casandjian J. M. , Cavazzuti E. , Cecchi C. , Charles E. , Chekhtman A. , Chiaro G. , Ciprini S. , Cohen-Tanugi J. , Conrad J. , Cutini S. , D’Ammando F. , Angelis A. de , Palma F. de , Desiante R. , Digel S. W. , Venere L. Di , Drell P. S. , Favuzzi C. , Fegan S. J. , Fukazawa Y. , Funk S. , Fusco P. , Gargano F. , Gasparrini D. , Giglietto N. , Giordano F. , Giroletti M. , Godfrey G. , Green D. , Grenier I. A. , Guiriec S. , Hays E. , Hewitt J. W. , Horan D. , Jóhannesson G. , Kuss M. , Larsson S. , Latronico L. , Li J. , Li L. , Longo F. , Loparco F. , Lovellette M. N. , Lubrano P. , Madejski G. M. , Maldera S. , Manfreda A. , Mayer M. , Mazziotta M. N. , Michelson P. F. , Mitthumsiri W. , Mizuno T. , Monzani M. E. , Morselli A. , Moskalenko I. V. , Murgia S. , Nuss E. , Ohsugi T. , Orienti M. , Orlando E. , Ormes J. F. , Paneque D. , Pesce-Rollins M. , Petrosian V. , Piron F. , Pivato G. , Porter T. A. , Rainò S. , Rando R. , Razzano M. , Reimer A. , Reimer O. , Sánchez-Conde M. , Sgrò C. , Siskind E. J. , Spada F. , Spandre G. , Spinelli P. , Tajima H. , Takahashi H. , Thayer J. B. , Tibaldo L. , Torres D. F. , Tosti G. , Troja E. , Vianello G. , Wood K. S. , Zimmer S. ,   (The Fermi-LAT Collaboration), Rephaeli Y.
Published: March 2016

We present results from γ-ray observations of the Coma cluster incorporating six years of Fermi-LAT data and the newly released “Pass 8” event-level analysis. Our analysis of the region reveals low-significance residual structures within the virial radius of the cluster that are too faint for a detailed investigation with the current data. Using a likelihood approach that is free of assumptions on the spectral shape we derive upper limits on the γ-ray flux that is expected from energetic particle interactions in the cluster. We also consider a benchmark spatial and spectral template motivated by models in which the observed radio halo is mostly emission by secondary electrons. In this case, the median expected and observed upper limits for the flux above 100

are 1.7 × 10−9 ph cm−2 s−1 and 5.2 × 10−9 ph cm−2 s−1 respectively (the latter corresponds to residual emission at the level of 1.8σ). These bounds are comparable to or higher than predicted levels of hadronic gamma-ray emission in cosmic-ray (CR) models with or without reacceleration of secondary electrons, although direct comparisons are sensitive to assumptions regarding the origin and propagation mode of CRs and magnetic field properties. The minimal expected γ-ray flux from radio and star-forming galaxies within the Coma cluster is roughly an order of magnitude below the median sensitivity of our analysis.
VARIATION OF SPECTRAL AND TIMING PROPERTIES IN THE EXTENDED BURST TAILS FROM THE MAGNETAR 4U 0142+61
Authors: Chakraborty Manoneeta , Göğüş Ersin , Muş Sinem Şaşmaz , Kaneko Yuki
Published: March 2016

Extended emission episodes with an intensity above the preburst level are observed following magnetar bursts from a number of soft gamma repeaters and anomalous X-ray pulsars (AXPs). Such extended tail emissions were observed following two events detected from AXP 4U 0142+61. We investigated in detail the evolution of spectral and temporal properties during these two tail segments using Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer/Proportional Counter Array observations, and report distinct variations in the spectral and temporal behavior throughout the tails. In particular, in both cases we observed a sudden enhancement of the pulsation amplitude in conjunction with bursts and a smooth decline of X-ray emission (cooling) during the tail. We suggest that an inefficiently radiating trapped fireball formed during the burst, which can heat up the stellar surface, is able to explain the tail properties and its energetics. We also present the episodic detection of absorption and emission features during tails. One possible mechanism that has been proposed to give rise to such spectral lines is the proton/ion cyclotron resonance process, which has been suggested as offering a valuable tool in probing the complex magnetic field of magnetars.
THE TIGHT RELATION BETWEEN X-RAY AND ULTRAVIOLET LUMINOSITY OF QUASARS
Authors: Lusso E. , Risaliti G.
Published: March 2016

The observed relation between the soft X-ray and the optical-ultraviolet emission in active galactic nuclei (AGNs) is nonlinear and it is usually parametrized as a dependence between the logarithm of the monochromatic luminosity at 2500 Å and at 2 keV. Previous investigations have found that the dispersion of this relation is rather high (∼0.35–0.4 in log units), which may be caused by measurement uncertainties, variability, and intrinsic dispersion due to differences in the AGN physical properties (e.g., different accretion modes). We show that, once optically selected quasars with homogeneous SED and X-ray detection are selected, and dust reddened and/or gas obscured objects are not included, the measured dispersion drops to significantly lower values (i.e., ∼0.21–0.24 dex). We show that the residual dispersion is due to some extent to variability, and to remaining measurement uncertainties. Therefore, the real physical intrinsic dispersion should be

dex. Such a tight relation, valid over four decades in luminosity, must be the manifestation of an intrinsic (and universal) physical relation between the disk, emitting the primary radiation, and the hot electron corona emitting X-rays.