bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant activity and Hypolipidemic effect of Ficus carica leaf and twig extracts in Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemic mice
Authors: Boukhalfa Farid , Kadri Nabil , Bouchemel Sihem , Ait Cheikh Saida , Chebout Imen , Madani Khodir , Chibane Mohamed
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND/AIM: The hypolipidemic potential of both leaf and twig extracts of Ficus carica on experimental hyperlipidaemia induced by Triton WR-1339, in Swiss albino mice was investigated. In addition, the phenolic, flavonoid and anthocyanin contents of these extracts and their antioxidant activities were determined. These properties may have a synergistic effect on hyperlipidaemia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Leaf and twig samples of F. carica were harvested and collected. The study of antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds was determined by the radical DPPH*, ABTS*+ and FRAP assays. The experimental design was carried out using acute oral toxicity study and Triton model hyperlipidaemia on Swiss albino adult male mice. The animals were observed continuously during the 14 days of the study for any physical signs of toxicity. On the 15th day, the animals were sacrificed by decapitation under anesthesia and the organs were observed for macroscopic pathological lesions. Hyperlipidaemia was induced in the mice by a single intravenous (iv) injection of Triton WR 1339 (300 mg/kg body weight), and the antihyperlipidemic effect of each extract, studied at 150 and 300 mg, was tested by gavage. After 24 hours of administration, serum from blood samples was used to estimate the various parameters of the lipid profile namely TC, TG, LDL and HDL. RESULTS: The results of the phenolic and flavonoid compounds of Ficus carica leaves and twigs varied from 12.84 to 19.78 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE) and 5.02 to 9.72 mg EQ/g dry matter, respectively. The scavenging activity (IC50) against the radical DPPH* and ABTS*+ varied from 346.2 to 461.38 μg/mL and 288.3 to 369.01 μg/mL for twigs and leaves respectively, and from 50.82 to 54.2 μg/mL for FRAP assay. The acute toxicity study showed no mortality and clinical signs of toxicity in the tested doses. The LD50 value of extracts of twigs and leaves of Ficus carica is greater than 5000 mg/kg. The results revealed that the administration of Ficus carica (FC) leaf and twig extracts resulted in a significant (p < 0.05) decline in levels of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-c, and VLDL-c, while the serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was significantly increased. The decrease rate of the lipid parameters differs significantly (p < 0.05) from the leaf and twig extracts and depends also on the administered dose. CONCLUSION: Ficus carica leaf and twig extracts may contain compounds able to lower plasma lipid concentrations, could contribute significantly to the total antioxidant properties and be beneficial in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia.
Hydroxycinnamic acids profiling, in vitro evaluation of total phenolic compounds, caffeine and antioxidant properties of coffee imported, roasted and consumed in Algeria
Authors: Beder-Belkhiri Wassila , Zeghichi-Hamri Sabrina , Kadri Nabil , Boulekbache-Makhlouf Lila , Cardoso Susana , Oukhmanou-Bensidhoum Sonia , Madani Khodir
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUD: Coffee is the most popular beverages consumed worldwide. It is an important source of antioxidants that can inhibit harmful effects of free radicals. OBJECTIVE: Comparative analysis of imported, roasted and consumed coffee in Algeria. METHODS: Investigation of the hydroxycinnamic acids profile of dark roasted coffee beans UHPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn analysis and in vitro evaluation of total phenolic compounds (TPC), caffeine and antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS, reducing power and phosphomolybdum methods in green and roasted Arabica and Robusta coffees beans and in coffee brews (Moka, Turk and Filter) prepared from a blend of Arabica and Robusta 20:80. RESULTS: Arabica and Robusta dark roasted beans had similar chromatographic profiles, being rich in caffeoylquinic acid and feruloylquinic acid isomers. Compared to green beans, roasted coffee beans had higher amounts of TPC while caffeine drastically decreased. The antioxidant activity increased after roasting, while the reducing activity was decreased. Filter coffee showed the highest levels of TPC and caffeine (0.69±0.05 g GAE/100 g, 0.96±0.08 mg/g respectively), which exhibits the higher reducing activity for the iron (III) and molybdate with 0.45±0.01 g GAE/100 g, 134.30±2.38 mg GAE/100 g, respectively. However, the Turk coffee exhibited the highest antiradical activity with 73.34% and 83.63% towards DPPH and ABTS, respectively. Significant correlations were recorded between TPC, caffeine and reducing power (r = 0.89) and (r = 0.97) respectively. CONCLUSION Despite the high roasting degree applied to green coffee beans, the consumed coffee constitute an important source of chlorogenic acids and its derivatives with high antioxidant potential that are beneficial for human health.
Adherence to Mediterranean dietary pattern and depression, anxiety and stress among high-school female adolescents
Authors: Tehrani Asal Neshatbini , Salehpour Amin , Beyzai Bita , Farhadnejad Hossein , Moloodi Reza , Hekmatdoost Azita , Rashidkhani Bahram
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND: Few studies have shown the protective effects of Mediterranean Dietary Pattern (MDP) in psychological disorders. OBJECTIVE: This cross-sectional study was designed to determine the association between adherence to MDP and depression, anxiety and stress among female adolescents aged 16.20±0.97 in Tehran, Iran. METHODS: Data from 263 participants were analyzed. Adherence to MDP was determined using Mediterranean-Style Dietary Pattern Score (MSDPS). Depression, anxiety and stress scores were characterized by DASS-21 (Depression Anxiety Stress Score-21 items) questionnaire. RESULTS: Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress across quintiles of MSDPS. After adjustment for age, the odds ratio (OR) for depression in the highest quintile of MSDPS was 0.44 (95% confidence interval [95%CI], 0.19–0.95), (P for trend = 0.009) compared to the lowest quintile. After additional adjustment for BMI, energy intake, physical activity, ethnicity, parents education level and total family income, subjects in the highest quintile had a 59% lower prevalence of depression compared to those in the lowest quintile of MSDPS (OR = 0.41;95% CI, 0.17–0.97), (P for trend = 0.010). However, the MSDPS was not significantly associated with the presence of anxiety and stress. CONCLUSION: Adherence to MDP is associated with a reduced presence of depressive symptoms in female adolescents.
Case Study Based Model to Propose the Integration of Suppliers in a Central State in Mexico
Authors: Ortega-Reyes Antonio , Hernández Gress Eva , Robles-Acosta Carlos
Published: April 2018

This paper addresses the situation of an industrial park in Mexico from the perspective of its community. It exposes a case study approach with the points of view of residents, businesses, and authorities to improve the socioeconomic conditions of the region: Sahagun, Hidalgo. The result of this article comes from a project ran by the Ministry of Economy of the state, to trigger the development of this area. The background of the topic is presented, its theoretical basis, and the methodological design. Finally, an integrative model is exposed to show the necessary actions to articulate enterprises—the society and the government to develop the town.
Assessing the Economic Impacts of Pesticide Regulations
Authors: Schneider Uwe , Rasche Livia , McCarl Bruce
Published: April 2018

Economic impacts of pesticide regulations are assessed using five alternative methodologies. The regulations include crop supply-enhancing eradication programs and crop supply-decreasing pesticide bans. Alternative assessment methodologies differ regarding assumptions about market price and crop acreage adjustments. Results show that market and producer adjustments substantially impact conclusions about winners and losers from regulations, and estimated welfare effects can differ widely between the different methodologies. For small technological changes such as the hypothetical pendimethalin regulation, farm budgeting and sector modeling yield similar estimates. For more severe technological changes—like the boll weevil eradication program—simple budgeting approaches lead to a substantial bias.
A Novel Protocol to Assess Acclimation Rate in Bos taurus Heifers during Yard Weaning
Authors: Monk Jessica E. , Hine Brad C. , Colditz Ian G. , Lee Caroline
Published: April 2018

The speed with which animals acclimate to a new environment could be an important measure of ability to cope with management induced stress. This study developed a measure of acclimation rate in a group of 50 Bos taurus heifers during yard weaning over nine days. We recorded the time and order in which heifers moved through a novel funnel structure into a feeding yard daily. We hypothesised that addition of an obstacle at the entrance would increase the time it took heifers to move through the funnel, but that they would acclimate to the obstacle over a three-day period. The change in latency to move through could then be used as a measure of acclimation rate. We hypothesised that individuals which acclimated to obstacles at a faster rate might display favourable temperament as assessed by flight time. All heifers took longer to move through the funnel after a novel object was introduced, then latency decreased over the following two days while the object was present. This indicates the protocol could be useful for measuring acclimation rate at a group level. Individual acclimation rate variables, measured as change in times and orders of heifers between test days, did not appear to have any consistent relationships with flight time or weight change during or post-weaning (p > 0.05). We concluded that the protocol was inappropriate for assessing acclimation rate at an individual level, due to social effects while testing heifers as a group. Heifers which were consistently one of the first 20 to move through the funnel had a significantly greater average weight 5 and 10 months post-weaning (345 ± 9 kg and 518 ± 10 kg respectively) than heifers which were consistently one of the last 20 through the funnel (311 ± 8 kg and 484 ± 8 kg respectively; p < 0.001). This may indicate order of movement through the funnel was related to feeding motivation or another aspect of temperament not reflected by flight time.
Role of Gene Therapy in Pancreatic Cancer—A Review
Authors: Sato-Dahlman Mizuho , Wirth Keith , Yamamoto Masato
Published: April 2018

Mortality from pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has remained essentially unchanged for decades and its relative contribution to overall cancer death is projected to only increase in the coming years. Current treatment for PDAC includes aggressive chemotherapy and surgical resection in a limited number of patients, with median survival of optimal treatment rather dismal. Recent advances in gene therapies offer novel opportunities for treatment, even in those with locally advanced disease. In this review, we summarize emerging techniques to the design and administration of virotherapy, synthetic vectors, and gene-editing technology. Despite these promising advances, shortcomings continue to exist and here will also be highlighted those approaches to overcoming obstacles in current laboratory and clinical research.
Nanomaterials and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Reipa Vytas , Atha Donald
Published: April 2018

With the rapid development of new nanomaterials, it was recognized early that together with their beneficial properties, nanomaterials may pose a risk to human health and the environment. Evidence has accumulated over the last twenty years in support of oxidative stress as a broad mechanistic concept to explain the interaction of engineered nanoparticles with biological substances. As oxidative stress as a physiological response was recognized in redox biology, its wide-ranging use in nanotoxicology has exposed new challenges and limitations. In this commentary, we review certain oxidative stress concepts and their relevance to nanotoxicology.
Subjective Human Perception of Open Urban Spaces in the Brazilian Subtropical Climate: A First Approach
Authors: Gobo João , Galvani Emerson , Wollmann Cássio
Published: April 2018

This research concerns a first approach to adapt the thermal comfort bands of the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET), New Standard Effective Temperature (SET), and Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) indices to Santa Maria’s population, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, on the basis of the application of perception/sensation questionnaires to inhabitants while, at the same time, recording meteorological attribute data. Meteorological and thermal sensation data were collected from an automatic weather station installed on paved ground in the downtown area, which contained the following sensors: a scale gauge; a global radiation sensor; a temperature and humidity sensor; a speed and wind direction sensor; a gray globe thermometer. First of all, air temperature, gray globe temperature, relative air humidity, wind speed, wind gust, global solar radiation and precipitation were collected. People were interviewed using a questionnaire adapted from the model established by ISO 10551. The results demonstrated the efficiency of the linear regression model and the adequacy of the interpretive indexes, presenting results different from those analyzed by other authors in different climatic zones. These differences meet the analyzed literature and attest to the effectiveness of the calibration method of the PET, SET, and PMV indices for the Brazilian subtropical climate. After calibration, the PET index hit rate increased from 32.8% to 69.3%. The SET index, which had an initial hit rate of 34.6% before calibration, reached a hit-rate of 64.9%, while the PMV index increased from 35.9% to 58.7%.
Investigation of Element Effect on High-Temperature Oxidation of HVOF NiCoCrAlX Coatings
Authors: Zhang Pimin , Lin Peng Ru , Li Xin-Hai , Johansson Sten
Published: April 2018

MCrAlX (M: Ni or Co or both, X: minor elements) coatings have been used widely to protect hot components in gas turbines against oxidation and heat corrosion at high temperatures. Understanding the influence of the X-elements on oxidation behavior is important in the design of durable MCrAlX coatings. In this study, NiCoCrAlX coatings doped with Y + Ru and Ce, respectively, were deposited on an Inconel-792 substrate using high velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF). The samples were subjected to isothermal oxidation tests in laboratory air at 900, 1000, and 1100 °C and a cyclic oxidation test between 100 and 1100 °C with a 1-h dwell time at 1100 °C. It was observed that the coating with Ce showed a much higher oxidation rate than the coating with Y + Ru under both isothermal and cyclic oxidation tests. In addition, the Y + Ru-doped coating showed significantly lower β phase depletion due to interdiffusion between the coating and the substrate, resulting from the addition of Ru. Simulation results using a moving phase boundary model and an established oxidation-diffusion model showed that Ru stabilized β grains, which reduced β-depletion of the coating due to substrate interdiffusion. This paper, combining experiment and simulation results, presents a comprehensive study of the influence of Ce and Ru on oxidation behavior, including an investigation of the microstructure evolution in the coating surface and the coating-substrate interface influenced by oxidation time.
On the Contact Geometry and the Poisson Geometry of the Ideal Gas
Authors: Isidro J. M. , Fernández de Córdoba P.
Published: April 2018

We elaborate on existing notions of contact geometry and Poisson geometry as applied to the classical ideal gas. Specifically, we observe that it is possible to describe its dynamics using a 3-dimensional contact submanifold of the standard 5-dimensional contact manifold used in the literature. This reflects the fact that the internal energy of the ideal gas depends exclusively on its temperature. We also present a Poisson algebra of thermodynamic operators for a quantum-like description of the classical ideal gas. The central element of this Poisson algebra is proportional to Boltzmann’s constant. A Hilbert space of states is identified and a system of wave equations governing the wavefunction is found. Expectation values for the operators representing pressure, volume and temperature are found to satisfy the classical equations of state.
A New Multi-Conductor Transmission Line Model of Transformer Winding for Frequency Response Analysis Considering the Frequency-Dependent Property of the Lamination Core
Authors: Wang Song , Guo Ze , Zhu Ting , Feng Hanke , Wang Shuhong
Published: April 2018

Multi-conductor transmission line (MTL) model of power transformer winding for frequency response analysis (FRA) has been successfully applied for the purpose of studying the characteristics of winding deformations. Most of the time it is considered that, at a frequency above 10 kHz, the flux does not penetrate the core, and the iron core losses due to hysteresis and eddy current can be neglected accordingly. However, in fact, there is still a little flux residing in the core, and it has a significant influence on inductances and resistances of transformer winding even up to approximately 1 MHz. In this paper, by introducing the anisotropic complex permeability of the lamination core into calculating inductances and resistances of the MTL model, a new MTL model considering the frequency-dependent property of the lamination core for FRA is presented. In addition, the accuracy and effectiveness of the MTL model are validated by means of a comparison between measured and emulated FRA results in a wide frequency range from 10 Hz up to 10 MHz. This precise MTL model of the transformer winding provides us a more objective and positive condition for simulation research of winding deformation detection.
Economic Exposure to Oil Price Shocks and the Fragility of Oil-Exporting Countries
Authors: Vandyck Toon , Kitous Alban , Saveyn Bert , Keramidas Kimon , Los Santos Luis , Wojtowicz Krzysztof
Published: April 2018

From a price range between 100 and 120 USD (U.S. dollars) per barrel in 2011–2014, the crude oil price fell from mid-2014 onwards, reaching a level of 26 USD per barrel in January 2016. Here we assess the economic consequences of this strong decrease in the oil price. A retrospective analysis based on data of the past 25 years sheds light on the vulnerability of oil-producing regions to the oil price volatility. Gross domestic product (GDP) and government revenues in many Gulf countries exhibit a strong dependence on oil, while more diversified economies improve resilience to oil price shocks. The lack of a sovereign wealth fund, in combination with limited oil reserves, makes parts of Sub-Saharan Africa particularly vulnerable to sustained periods of low oil prices. Next, we estimate the macroeconomic impacts of a 60% oil price drop for all regions in the world. A numerical simulation yields a global GDP increase of roughly 1% and illustrates how the regional impact on GDP relates to oil export dependence. Finally, we reflect on the broader implications (such as migration flows) of macroeconomic responses to oil prices and look ahead to the challenge of structural change in a world committed to limiting global warming.
Detection of Tectonically Deformed Coal Using Model-Based Joint Inversion of Multi-Component Seismic Data
Authors: Lu Jun , Wang Yun , Chen Jingyi
Published: April 2018

Tectonically-deformed coal (TDC) is a potential source of threats to coal-mining safety. Finding out the development and distribution of TDCs is a difficult task in coalfield seismic explorations. Based on the previous investigations, the P- to S-wave velocity ratio (α/β) is a stable parameter for the identification of TDCs and most TDCs have α/β values of less than 1.7. Here, a TDC detection method using a model-based joint inversion of the multi-component seismic data is proposed. Following the least square theories, the amplitude variation with offset gathers of the PP- and PS-waves are jointly inverted into the corresponding α/β values. The prior models generated from the P- and S-wave velocity and density logs are employed in the joint inversion to enhance the inversed models. Model test results show that the model-based inversion is of high anti-noise ability and has a good recognition ability of TDCs. The proposed method is applied to a work area of the Guqiao mine in China. The TDCs developed in coal seam 13-1 are effectively identified according to their inverted α/β values of less than 1.7. The detection result is verified by the well and tunnel excavation information.
Traffic-Induced Changes and Processes in Forest Road Aggregate Particle-Size Distributions
Authors: Rhee Hakjun , Fridley James , Page-Dumroese Deborah
Published: April 2018

Traffic can alter forest road aggregate material in various ways, such as by crushing, mixing it with subgrade material, and sweeping large-size, loose particles (gravel) toward the outside of the road. Understanding the changes and physical processes of the aggregate is essential to mitigate sediment production from forest roads and reduce road maintenance efforts. We compared the particle-size distributions of forest road aggregate from the Clearwater National Forest in Idaho, USA in three vertical layers (upper, middle, and bottom of the road aggregate), three horizontal locations (tire track, shoulder, and half-way between them), and three traffic uses (none, light (no logging vehicles), and heavy (logging vehicles and equipment)) using Tukey’s multiple comparison test. Light traffic appears to cause aggregate crushing where vehicle tires passed and caused sweeping on the road surface. Heavy traffic caused aggregate crushing at all vertical and horizontal locations, and subgrade mixing with the bottom layer at the shoulder location. Logging vehicles and heavy equipment with wide axles drove on the shoulder and exerted enough stress to cause subgrade mixing. These results can help identify the sediment source and define adequate mitigation measures to reduce sediment production from forest roads and reduce road maintenance efforts by providing information for best management practices.
Technological and Genomic Analysis of Roles of the Cell-Envelope Protease PrtS in Yoghurt Starter Development
Authors: Tian Hui , Li Bailiang , Evivie Smith , Sarker Shuvan , Chowdhury Sathi , Lu Jingjing , Ding Xiuyun , Huo Guicheng
Published: April 2018

The cell-envelope protease PrtS was proved to be efficient in optimal bacterial growth and fast acidification in pure culture, while its positive effect on the performance of mixed-cultures in milk fermentation was not defined. The aim was to analyze effects of the PrtS on the symbiosis between strains during yoghurt production and cold storage. Two Streptococcus thermophilus strains, KLDS3.1012 and KLDS SM, and two different proteolytic strains of Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. Bulgaricus, L7 and L12, were used. Technological properties (viability, acid production, and proteolysis) were determined. Comparative genomics was used to analyze the proteolytic system (cell-envelope protease, transport system, intracellular peptidase) of Streptococcus thermophilus strains. S. thermophilus KLDS SM possesses an intact gene encoding PrtS (A9497_00420), which was not found in the genome of S. thermophilus KLDS3.1012. This gene is the main difference in the proteolytic system between the two genomes. PrtS endowed KLDS SM high levels of viability during fermentation and cold storage. When combined with a weaker lactobacillus strain during fermentation, the acceleration of acid production of mixed-culture by KLDS SM would start at an earlier time. KLDS SM increased the post-acidification of yoghurts during cold storage, but the pH was steadily maintained during 14–28 days. Results suggest that strains of Streptococcus thermophilus with strong proteolytic ability could be used in a wide range of dairy production. The present study provided data for yoghurt starter development from the point of view of proteolysis.
Impact of Mutagens on DNA Replication in Barley Chromosomes
Authors: Kwasniewska Jolanta , Zubrzycka Karolina , Kus Arita
Published: April 2018

Replication errors that are caused by mutagens are critical for living cells. The aim of the study was to analyze the distribution of a DNA replication pattern on chromosomes of the H. vulgare ‘Start’ variety using pulse 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) labeling, as well as its relationship to the DNA damage that is induced by mutagenic treatment with maleic hydrazide (MH) and γ ray. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a study of the effects of mutagens on the DNA replication pattern in chromosomes, as well as the first to use EdU labeling for these purposes. The duration of the cell cycle of the Hordeum vulgare ‘Start’ variety was estimated for the first time, as well as the influence of MH and γ ray on it. The distribution of the signals of DNA replication along the chromosomes revealed relationships between DNA replication, the chromatin structure, and DNA damage. MH has a stronger impact on replication than γ ray. Application of EdU seems to be promising for precise analyses of cell cycle disturbances in the future, especially in plant species with small genomes.
New Pyrazolium Salts as a Support for Ionic Liquid Crystals and Ionic Conductors
Authors: Pastor María , Sánchez Ignacio , Campo José , Schmidt Rainer , Cano Mercedes
Published: April 2018

Ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) are a class of materials that combine the properties of liquid crystals (LCs) and ionic liquids (ILs). This type of materials is directed towards properties such as conductivity in ordered systems at different temperatures. In this work, we synthesize five new families of ILCs containing symmetrical and unsymmetrical substituted pyrazolium cations, with different alkyl long-chains, and anions such as Cl−, BF4−, ReO4−, p-CH3-6H4SO3− (PTS) and CF3SO3− (OTf). We study their thermal behavior by polarized light optical microscopy (POM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). All of them, except those with OTf as counteranion, show thermotropic mesomorphism. The observations by POM reveal textures of lamellar mesophases. Those agree with the arrangement observed in the X-ray crystal structure of [H2pzR(4),R(4)][ReO4]. The nature of the mesophases is also confirmed by variable temperature powder X-ray diffraction. On the other hand, the study of the dielectric properties at variable temperature in mesomorphic (Cl− and BF4−) and non-mesomorphic (OTf) salts indicates that the supramolecular arrangement of the mesophase favors a greater ionic mobility and therefore ionic conductivity.
Evanescent Properties of Optical Diffraction from 2-Dimensional Hexagonal Photonic Crystals and Their Sensor Applications
Authors: Liao Yu-Yang , Chen Yung-Tsan , Chen Chien-Chun , Huang Jian-Jang
Published: April 2018

The sensitivity of traditional diffraction grating sensors is limited by the spatial resolution of the measurement setup. Thus, a large space is required to improve sensor performance. Here, we demonstrate a compact hexagonal photonic crystal (PhC) optical sensor with high sensitivity. PhCs are able to diffract optical beams to various angles in azimuthal space. The critical wavelength that satisfies the phase matching or becomes evanescent was used to benchmark the refractive index of a target analyte applied on a PhC sensor. Using a glucose solution as an example, our sensor demonstrated very high sensitivity and a low limit of detection. This shows that the diffraction mechanism of hexagonal photonic crystals can be used for sensors when compact size is a concern.
One-Step Green Hydrothermal Synthesis of Few-Layer Graphene Oxide from Humic Acid
Authors: Huang Guangxu , Kang Weiwei , Geng Qianhao , Xing Baolin , Liu Quanrun , Jia Jianbo , Zhang Chuanxiang
Published: April 2018

The conventional synthesis route of graphene oxide (GOG), based on Hummers method, suffers from explosion risk, environmental concerns and a tedious synthesis process, which increases production costs and hinders its practical applications. Herein, we report a novel strategy for preparing few-layer graphene oxide (GOH) from humic acid via simple hydrothermal treatment. The formation of GOH is mainly attributed to the hydrolysis, oxidation and aromatization of humic acid under hydrothermal conditions. The as-prepared few-layer GOH has typical morphology (thin and crumpled sheets with the thickness of ~3.2 nm), crystal structure (a Raman ID/IG ratio of 1.09) and chemical composition (an X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) O/C atomic ratio of 0.36) of few-layer GOG. The thermally reduced GOH (r-GOH) delivers considerable area capacitance of 28 µF·cm−2, high rate capability and low electrochemical resistance as supercapacitor electrodes. The described hydrothermal process shows great promise for the cheap, green and efficient synthesis of few-layer graphene oxide for advanced applications.
Uranyl Sulfate Nanotubules Templated by N-phenylglycine
Authors: Siidra Oleg , Nazarchuk Evgeny , Charkin Dmitry , Chukanov Nikita , Depmeier Wulf , Bocharov Sergey , Sharikov Mikhail
Published: April 2018

The synthesis, structure, and infrared spectroscopy properties of the new organically templated uranyl sulfate Na(phgH+)7[(UO2)6(SO4)10](H2O)3.5 (1), obtained at room temperature by evaporation from aqueous solution, are reported. Its structure contains unique uranyl sulfate [(UO2)6(SO4)10]8− nanotubules templated by protonated N-phenylglycine (C6H5NH2CH2COOH)+. Their internal diameter is 1.4 nm. Each of the nanotubules is built from uranyl sulfate rings sharing common SO4 tetrahedra. The template plays an important role in the formation of the complex structure of 1. The aromatic rings are stacked parallel to each other due to the effect of π–π interaction with their side chains extending into the gaps between the nanotubules.
The Mechanism of Low-Temperature Oxidation of Carbon Monoxide by Oxygen over the PdCl2–CuCl2/γ-Al2O3 Nanocatalyst
Authors: Bruk Lev , Titov Denis , Ustyugov Alexander , Zubavichus Yan , Chernikova Valeriya , Tkachenko Olga , Kustov Leonid , Murzin Vadim , Oshanina Irina , Temkin Oleg
Published: April 2018

The state of palladium and copper on the surface of the PdCl2–CuCl2/γ-Al2O3 nanocatalyst for the low-temperature oxidation of CO by molecular oxygen was studied by various spectroscopic techniques. Using X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS), freshly prepared samples of the catalyst were studied. The same samples were also evaluated after interaction with CO, O2, and H2O vapor in various combinations. It was shown that copper exists in the form of Cu2Cl(OH)3 (paratacamite) nanophase on the surface of the catalyst. No palladium-containing crystalline phases were identified. Palladium coordination initially is comprised of four chlorine atoms. It was shown by XAS that this catalyst is not capable of oxidizing CO at room temperature in the absence of H2O and O2 over 12 h. Copper(II) and palladium(II) are reduced to Cu(I) and Pd(I,0) species, respectively, in the presence of CO and H2O vapor (without O2). It was found by DRIFTS that both linear (2114 cm−1, 1990 cm−1) and bridging (1928 cm−1) forms of coordinated CO were formed upon adsorption onto the catalyst surface. Moreover, the formation of CO2 was detected upon the interaction of the coordinated CO with oxygen. The kinetics of CO oxidation was studied at 18–38 °C at an atmospheric pressure for CO, O2, N2, and H2O (gas) mixtures in a flow reactor (steady state conditions).
Antioxidant Activity and Antifungal Activity of Chitosan Derivatives with Propane Sulfonate Groups
Authors: Luan Fang , Wei Lijie , Zhang Jingjing , Mi Yingqi , Dong Fang , Li Qing , Guo Zhanyong
Published: April 2018

We successfully synthesized the water-soluble chitosan derivatives propane sulfonated chitosan (PSCS) and dipropane sulfonated chitosan (DPSCS) in this paper. These derivatives were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the chitosan derivatives was evaluated by free radical scavenging ability (against DPPH-radical, hydroxyl-radical, and superoxide-radical) and ferric reducing power. Meanwhile, inhibitory effects against two fungi were also tested. Our results suggested antioxidant abilities and antifungal properties were in order of DPSCS > PSCS > CS, which were consistent with the number of propane sulfonated groups. The scavenging activity of DPSCS against superoxide-radical and DPPH-radical were 94.1% and 100% at 1.6 mg/mL, respectively. The inhibitory indices of DPSCS against P. asparagi and F. oxysporum were up to 82.2% and 94% at 1.0 mg/mL, respectively. Obviously, the number of propane sulfonated groups of chitosan derivatives not only contributes to antioxidant activity, but also to antifungal activity. Therefore, DPSCS with more propane sulfonated groups endowed with antioxidant and antifungal activity that can be used as a candidate material in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Evaluation of One-Class Support Vector Classification for Mapping the Paddy Rice Planting Area in Jiangsu Province of China from Landsat 8 OLI Imagery
Authors: Xu Xinjie , Ji Xusheng , Jiang Jiale , Yao Xia , Tian Yongchao , Zhu Yan , Cao Weixing , Cao Qiang , Yang Hongjian , Shi Zhongkui , Cheng Tao
Published: April 2018

Identification of paddy fields is essential for monitoring the rice cultivated area and predicting rice productivity. Timely and accurate extraction of rice distribution can bring vital information for national food security, agricultural policy formulation, and regional environmental sustainability. Conventional classification methods usually suffered from low accuracy, multi-class training samples, or demanding imagery requirements. This paper proposes to use one-class support vector classification (OCSVC) to extract rice cultivated area with Landsat Optical Land Imager (OLI) imagery. Instead of sampling and training all land cover types as performed by multi-class classification methods, OCSVC only used the training samples of target class (rice) for rice mapping. The performance of OCSVC was evaluated in terms of the classification accuracy of rice mapping and rice acreage estimation based on high-resolution imagery, field survey data and rice acreage data from government reports for Jiangsu Province, China. At the county-level, OCSVC was also compared with the commonly used multi-class support vector classification (MCSVC), decision tree classification (DTC), and vegetation index-based thresholding (VIT). Our results demonstrated that OCSVC produced a comparable overall accuracy to DTC and outperformed MCSVC and VIT. The computational efficiency of OCSVC increased approximately ten times as compared to MCSVC. The OCSVC produced the best correlation between its classified area and reported area among the four classification methods evaluated. When applied to the provincial level, the classification overall accuracy for OCSVC was 88.54%. The detected rice planting area for Jiangsu Province was 22,602 km2, which was consistent with the statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics (22,948 km2). This OCSVC-based mapping strategy provides a practical and efficient way to detect the rice planting extent with Landsat imagery at a large scale.
Spatio-Temporal Analysis and Uncertainty of Fractional Vegetation Cover Change over Northern China during 2001–2012 Based on Multiple Vegetation Data Sets
Authors: Yang Linqing , Jia Kun , Liang Shunlin , Liu Meng , Wei Xiangqin , Yao Yunjun , Zhang Xiaotong , Liu Duanyang
Published: April 2018

Northern China is one of the most sensitive and vulnerable regions in the country. To combat environmental degradation in northern China, a series of vegetation protection programs, such as the Three-North Shelter Forest Program (TNFSP), have been implemented. Whether the implementation of these programs in northern China has improved the vegetation conditions has merited global attention. Therefore, quantifying vegetation changes in northern China is essential for meteorological, hydrological, ecological, and societal implications. Fractional vegetation cover (FVC) is a crucial biophysical parameter which describes land surface vegetation conditions. In this study, four FVC data sets derived from remote sensing data over northern China are employed for a spatio-temporal analysis to determine the uncertainty of fractional vegetation cover change from 2001 to 2012. Trend analysis of these data sets (including an annually varying estimate of error) reveals that FVC has increased at the rate of 0.26 ± 0.13%, 0.30 ± 0.25%, 0.12 ± 0.03%, 0.49 ± 0.21% per year in northern China, Northeast China, Northwest China, and North China during the period 2001–2012, respectively. In all of northern China, only 33.03% of pixels showed a significant increase in vegetation cover whereas approximately 16.81% of pixels showed a significant decrease and 50.16% remained relatively stable.
TwitterSensing: An Event-Based Approach for Wireless Sensor Networks Optimization Exploiting Social Media in Smart City Applications
Authors: Costa Daniel G. , Duran-Faundez Cristian , Andrade Daniel C. , Rocha-Junior João B. , Just Peixoto João Paulo
Published: April 2018

Modern cities are subject to periodic or unexpected critical events, which may bring economic losses or even put people in danger. When some monitoring systems based on wireless sensor networks are deployed, sensing and transmission configurations of sensor nodes may be adjusted exploiting the relevance of the considered events, but efficient detection and classification of events of interest may be hard to achieve. In Smart City environments, several people spontaneously post information in social media about some event that is being observed and such information may be mined and processed for detection and classification of critical events. This article proposes an integrated approach to detect and classify events of interest posted in social media, notably in Twitter, and the assignment of sensing priorities to source nodes. By doing so, wireless sensor networks deployed in Smart City scenarios can be optimized for higher efficiency when monitoring areas under the influence of the detected events.
Introduction of Autonomous Vehicles: Roundabouts Design and Safety Performance Evaluation
Authors: Deluka Tibljaš Aleksandra , Giuffrè Tullio , Surdonja Sanja , Trubia Salvatore
Published: April 2018

Driving experiences provided by the introduction of new vehicle technologies are directly impacting the criteria for road network design. New criteria should be taken into consideration by designers, researchers and car owners in order to assure traffic safety in changed conditions that will appear with, for example, introduction of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) in everyday traffic. In this paper, roundabout safety level is analysed on the originally developed microsimulation model in circumstances where different numbers of AVs vehicles are mixed with Conventional Vehicles (CVs). Field data about speed and traffic volumes from existing roundabouts in Croatia were used for development of the model. The simulations done with the Surrogate Safety Assessment Model (SSAM) give some relevant highlights on how the introduction of AVs could change both operational and safety parameters at roundabouts. To further explore the effects on safety of roundabouts with the introduction of different shares of AVs, hypothetical safety treatments could be tested to explore whether their effects may change, leading to the estimation of a new set of Crash Modification Factors.
R&D Cooperation and Knowledge Spillover Effects for Sustainable Business Innovation in the Chemical Industry
Authors: Hájek Petr , Stejskal Jan
Published: April 2018

This paper investigates the influence of research and development (R&D) cooperation on the creation of spillover effects for sustainable firms in the chemical industry. We explore the evidence for the origin of knowledge spillovers derived from cooperation amongst firms and universities and R&D organizations as well as to test the influence of internal/external financial support on these effects. The results confirm that when firms acquire knowledge from internal sources, this leads to increased innovation and sustainable performance. We have proved that internal expenditure results in increased internal knowledge spillovers. These findings may be specific for Central and Eastern (CEE) transition countries, indicating their efforts to build path-dependent structures based on knowledge institutions and businesses as well as knowledge networks. However, this study also provides a more “global” contribution to the knowledge spillover effect theory. It shows that a firm’s cooperation both with universities and with other firms promotes different types of knowledge spillovers and can affect diverse modes of sustainable activities in innovation.
Role of Law, Position of Actor and Linkage of Policy in China’s National Environmental Governance System, 1972–2016
Authors: Mu Rui
Published: April 2018

China is struggling between accelerating environmental protection and accelerating environmental damage. Although the central government is investing extensively in environmental laws and policies, China’s annual environmental goals have hardly been achieved. What is often poorly recognized by top decision-makers is that the environmental governance system is so complex that multiple elements, including laws, policy items, actors and issues, have become intentionally or emergently entangled. Without knowing the roles, positions and interconnections of the system elements, it is difficult for people to find the critical points for further improvements. Taking this challenge, this research conducts a retrospective analysis on the developmental trajectory of China’s environmental governance. The analysis helps us to pinpoint the role of law, the position of actor, and the linkage of policy that promote or prevent environmental protection; it can also question or reaffirm the effectiveness of the environmental laws and policies, and thereby aid China’s future prognosis and some recommendations.
Selection of Potential Therapeutic Bacteriophages that Lyse a CTX-M-15 Extended Spectrum β-Lactamase Producing Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhi Strain from the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Kakabadze Elene , Makalatia Khatuna , Grdzelishvili Nino , Bakuradze Nata , Goderdzishvili Marina , Kusradze Ia , Phoba Marie-France , Lunguya Octavie , Lood Cédric , Lavigne Rob , Jacobs Jan , Deborggraeve Stijn , De Block Tessa , Van Puyvelde Sandra , Lee David , Coffey Aidan , Sedrakyan Anahit , Soentjens Patrick , De Vos Daniel , Pirnay Jean-Paul , Chanishvili Nina
Published: April 2018

Recently, a Salmonella Typhi isolate producing CTX-M-15 extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) and with decreased ciprofloxacin susceptibility was isolated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. We have selected bacteriophages that show strong lytic activity against this isolate and have potential for phage-based treatment of S. Typhi, and Salmonella in general.
Polarization of Gamma-Ray Bursts in the Dissipative Photosphere Model
Authors: Lundman Christoffer , Vurm Indrek , Beloborodov Andrei M.
Published: April 2018

The MeV spectral peak of gamma-ray bursts (GRBs) is best explained as photospheric emission from a dissipative relativistic jet. The observed non-blackbody spectrum shows that sub-photospheric dissipation involves both thermal plasma heating and injection of nonthermal particles, which quickly cool through inverse Compton scattering and emission of synchrotron radiation. Synchrotron photons emitted around and above the photosphere are predicted to dominate the low-energy part of the GRB spectrum, starting from roughly a decade in energy below the MeV peak. We show that this leads to a unique polarization signature: a rise in GRB polarization toward lower energies. We compute the polarization degree of GRB radiation as a function of photon energy for a generic jet model, and show the predictions for GRBs 990123, 090902B, and 110721A. The expected polarization is significant in the X-ray band, in particular for bursts similar to GRB 090902B. The model predicts that radiation in the MeV peak (and at higher energies) is unpolarized as long as the jet is approximately uniform on angular scales δθ ≳ Γ−1 where Γ is the bulk Lorentz factor of the jet.
Assessing the Capabilities of Dynamic Coronal Seismology of Alfvénic Waves through Forward Modeling
Authors: Magyar N. , Van Doorsselaere T.
Published: April 2018

Coronal seismology is a diagnostic tool used in solar physics for measuring parameters that are otherwise hard to measure; of these parameters, magnetic field values are arguably the most important. The parameters are inferred by combining observations of waves with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) wave theory. To date, coronal seismology has successfully been applied to various single-oscillation events. Such events are relatively rare, resulting in rare occasions to use diagnostics. Ubiquitous waves in the solar atmosphere might, however, allow for the possibility of dynamic coronal seismology, which involves the continuous inversions of coronal parameters and would constitute a huge leap forward in many areas of solar physics. In this paper, we investigate the robustness and accuracy of magnetic field diagnostics applied to forward-modeled 3D MHD simulations of propagating Alfvénic waves. We find that the seismologically measured magnetic field values are reassuringly close to the input value (within ≈20%) for a range of setups studied, providing encouragement and confidence for the further development of dynamic coronal seismology.
ALMA Multiple-transition Observations of High-density Molecular Tracers in Ultraluminous Infrared Galaxies
Authors: Imanishi Masatoshi , Nakanishi Kouichiro , Izumi Takuma
Published: April 2018

We present the results of our ALMA observations of 11 (ultra)luminous infrared galaxies ((U)LIRGs) at J = 4–3 of HCN, HCO+, and HNC and J = 3–2 of HNC. This is an extension of our previously published HCN and HCO+
J = 3–2 observations to multiple rotational J-transitions of multiple molecules, to investigate how molecular emission line flux ratios vary at different J-transitions. We confirm that ultraluminous infrared galaxies (ULIRGs) that contain or may contain luminous obscured active galactic nuclei (AGNs) tend to show higher HCN-to-HCO+ flux ratios than starburst galaxies, both at J = 4–3 and J = 3–2. For selected HCN-flux-enhanced AGN-important ULIRGs, our isotopologue H13CN, H13CO+, and HN13C J = 3–2 line observations suggest a higher abundance of HCN than HCO+ and HNC, which is interpreted to be primarily responsible for the elevated HCN flux in AGN-important galaxies. For such sources, the intrinsic HCN-to-HCO+ flux ratios after line opacity correction will be higher than the observed ratios, making the separation between AGNs and starbursts even larger. The signature of the vibrationally excited (v
2 = 1f) HCN J = 4–3 emission line is seen in one ULIRG, IRAS 12112−0305 NE. P Cygni profiles are detected in the HCO+
J = 4–3 and J = 3–2 lines toward IRAS 15250+3609, with an estimated molecular outflow rate of ∼250–750 M
⊙ yr−1. The SiO J = 6–5 line also exhibits a P Cygni profile in IRAS 12112+0305 NE, suggesting the presence of shocked outflow activity. Shock tracers are detected in many sources, suggesting ubiquitous shock activity in the nearby ULIRG population.