bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chess and Thinking
Authors: MISAKYAN Samvel
Published: June 2017

This article defines the chess impact on the formulation and development of thinking. Children’s thinking development is taken into consideration though the chess tasks and resolution of the problems with one and two moves. We consider the understanding scheme of problem solving though the simple chess tasks’ discussion. We consider the mate creation by the Queen and Knight, in order to solve the problem. The possible move of the piece is pointed to show the mate. The task’s solution is simplified through the analysis. To understand the solution of the mate problem in two moves, once again we applied schematic thinking.
Measles outbreak after 12 years without endemic transmission, Portugal, February to May 2017
Authors: George Francisco , Valente João , Augusto Gonçalo F , Silva Andreia J , Pereira Natália , Fernandes Teresa , Palminha Paula , Aguiar Bárbara A , Martins António , Santos Estêvão , Valente Paula , Calé Etelvina , Leça Ana , Nogueira Paulo J
Published: June 2017

We report a measles outbreak in two Portuguese health regions (Algarve and Lisbon and the Tagus Valley) since February 2017, and which by 31 May resulted in 28 confirmed cases, of which 16 were unvaccinated. Thirteen cases were healthcare workers. One unvaccinated teenager died. Genotype B3 was identified in 14 cases from both regions. This outbreak occurs after 12 years without endemic measles transmission, and in a context of high measles vaccination coverage and immunity.
Bio-removal of Azo Dyes: A Review
Authors: Singh Pradeep Kumar , Singh Ram Lakhan
Published: June 2017

Synthetic dyes are widely used in textile, paper, food, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries with the textile industry as the largest consumer. Among all the available synthetic dyes, azo dyes are the largest group of dyes used in textile industry. Textile dyeing and finishing processes generate a large amount of dye containing wastewater which is one of the main sources of water pollution problems worldwide. Several physico-chemical methods have been applied to the treatment of textile wastewater but these methods have many limitations due to high cost, low efficiency and secondary pollution problems. As an alternative to physico-chemical methods, biological methods comprise bacteria, fungi, yeast, algae and plants and their enzymes which received increasing interest due to their cost effectiveness and eco-friendly nature. Decolorization of azo dyes by biological processes may take place either by biosorption or biodegradation. A variety of reductive and oxidative enzymes may also be involved in the degradation of dyes. This review provides an overview of decolorization and degradation of azo dyes by biological processes and establishes the fact that these microbial and plant cells are significantly effective biological weapon against the toxic azo dyes. Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 5(2): 108-126
Cluster Analysis of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes Based Upon Response to Terminal Heat Stress
Authors: Poudel Ankur , Thapa Dhruba Bahadur , Sapkota Manoj
Published: June 2017

High temperature stress adversely affects plant physiological processes; limiting plant growth and reducing grain yield. Heat stress is often encountered due to late sowing of wheat in winter. Fifty wheat genotypes were studied for days to maturity, thousand kernel weight, grain filling duration, grain filling rate, and SPAD reading in alpha lattice design at Agriculture and Forestry University at Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal with the objective to identify superior heat stress tolerant varieties after clustering them based on their response to heat stress. All the genotypes were clustered using reduction in thousand kernel weight, heat susceptibility index for thousand kernel weight, heat susceptibility index for grain filling duration, area under SPAD retreat curve, maturity duration under normal condition, maturity duration at late sown condition, grain filling rate under normal condition and grain filling rate at late sown condition as variables and dendogram was prepared. UPGMA revealed that these genotypes formed five distinct clusters. The resistant genotypes and susceptible genotypes formed different clusters. The member of cluster 3 was found to be tolerant to terminal heat stress where as members of cluster 2 were found most susceptible to terminal heat stress. From this study genotype BAJ #1/SUP152 was found most tolerant to terminal heat stress. The genotypes belonging to superior cluster could be considered very useful in developing heat tolerant variety and other breeding activities.Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 5(2): 188-193
Ion Transport through Surfactant Modified Cellulose Acetate Phthalate Membrane in Acidic Medium
Authors: Tiwari A.K. , Khan Z.F.
Published: June 2017

Cellulose acetate phthalate (CAP)membrane was interacted separately with aqueous HCl solution and aqueous HCl with sodium dodecyl hydrogen sulphate (SDS) as a surfactant  and their characteristic properties were determined on the basis of water content, conductance-time and membrane potential data. The possibility of electrochemical modification of cellulose acetate phthalate membrane upon immobilization of the anionic surfactant (SDS) has been also explored. Variable concentration of HCl solutions were used across a cellulose acetate phthalate membrane for membrane potential. The data has been used to interpret the variation of permselectivity ,effective fixed charge density and Donnan distribution ratio of membrane.Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 5(2): 267-272
Risk for the surgical team during orthopaedic surgeries
Authors: Sah Shambhu , KC Bikash , Dangi Sailoj Jung , Khanal Kanak , Basnet Ramesh
Published: June 2017

Orthopaedic surgeons and the surgical team not only face health hazards faced by most of the physicians in any medical field but also hazards specific to the practice of orthopaedic surgery. Common health hazards are related to radiation, infections, surgical smoke, noise, chemicals, physical and it may be psychological. The aim of this article is to review the hazards and raise the awareness for the safety of orthopaedic surgeon and the surgical team as well as patient and newly introduced surgical team member in Operation Theater.
A case of acute discitis following spinal anaesthesia: a rarity or a tip of the iceberg?
Authors: Koirala Siddhartha , Lamichhane Suraj , Karn Navin
Published: June 2017

Acute discitis, an inflammatory process of the intervertebral disc, has been reported as a rare complication of bacterial infection or chemical or mechanical irritation most commonly following spinal surgery. It may extend into the adjacent tissue and lead to grave orthopaedic and neurological consequences. Although it has been reported as an infective complication following spinal anesthesia also, its true incidence in our part of the world is not known. It may be higher than generally thought as the technique is overwhelmingly used. Further, we do not know about its awareness among anesthesia practitioners. Here we report a case of acute discitis in a young lady who presented with severe acute low back pain two weeks after spinal anesthesia for caesarean section; magnetic resonance imaging of lumbosacral spine revealed infective spondilodiscitis and she was treated with antibiotics and analgesics. The true incidence of acute infective discitis following spinal anaesthesia in our part of the world is unknown and it may be higher that thought. It can be prevented by using rigorous aseptic techniques, and anesthesia should be administered by appropriately qualified and trained personnel.
Vibration Analysis of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Laminated Composite Skin with Glass Honeycomb Sandwich Beam Using HSDT
Authors: Subramani Mageshwaran , Arumugam Ananda Babu , Ramamoorthy Manoharan
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the vibration analysis of uniform laminated composite sandwich beam with a viscoelastic core was studied. The governing equation of motion of the laminated composite sandwich beam has been derived based on higher order shear deformation theory (HSDT) in finite element model (FEM). The developed finite element model has been validated in terms of natural frequencies with the experimental values and the available literature. Various parametric studies have been performed to examine the impact of the core thickness, ply orientation and aspect ratio of the uniform laminated composite sandwich beam in response to free vibration for various boundary conditions. From the results it was concluded that that natural frequencies could be increased with increasing the core thickness and decreased with increasing the aspect ratio.
Effects of Cone Angle and Inlet Blade Angle on Mixed Inflow Turbine Performances
Authors: Chelabi Mohammed Amine , Hamidou Mohammed Kamel , Hamel Mohammed
Published: June 2017

The development of the aerofoil-shaped turbomachine blades is of prime importance for achieving the appropriate deflection of a three dimensional flow through desired angles, to work at the same degree of incidence and thereby providing the required performances for the specific machine. The sensitivity of the rotor to incidence effects and tendency of the flow to separate from one or the other blade surface have given rise to considerations of the optimum incidence angle and cone angle for a mixed inflow turbine by a numerical investigation using the ANSYS-CFX code. In order to keep the rotor in the same casing some geometrical parameters have been hold constant and the Bezier polynomial is used to generate the new shape of the rotor blade when changing the cone angle magnitude.
Species Richness and Relative Abundance of Reef-Building Corals in the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: DeVantier Lyndon , Turak Emre
Published: June 2017

Scleractinian corals, the main framework builders of coral reefs, are in serious global decline, although there remains significant uncertainty as to the consequences for individual species and particular regions. We assessed coral species richness and ranked relative abundance across 3075 depth-stratified survey sites, each < 0.5 ha in area, using a standardized rapid assessment method, in 31 Indo-West Pacific (IWP) coral ecoregions (ERs), from 1994 to 2016. The ecoregions cover a significant proportion of the ranges of most IWP reef coral species, including main centres of diversity, providing a baseline (albeit a shifted one) of species abundance over a large area of highly endangered reef systems, facilitating study of future change. In all, 672 species were recorded. The richest sites and ERs were all located in the Coral Triangle. Local (site) richness peaked at 224 species in Halmahera ER (IWP mean 71 species Standard Deviation 38 species). Nineteen species occurred in more than half of all sites, all but one occurring in more than 90% of ERs. Representing 13 genera, these widespread species exhibit a broad range of life histories, indicating that no particular strategy, or taxonomic affiliation, conferred particular ecological advantage. For most other species, occurrence and abundance varied markedly among different ERs, some having pronounced “centres of abundance”. Conversely, another 40 species, also with widely divergent life histories, were very rare, occurring in five or fewer sites, 14 species of which are ranked as “Vulnerable” or “Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Others may also qualify in these Threatened categories under criteria of small geographic range and population fragmentation, the utility of which is briefly assessed.
The Expected Missing Mass under an Entropy Constraint
Authors: Berend Daniel , Kontorovich Aryeh , Zagdanski Gil
Published: June 2017

In Berend and Kontorovich (2012), the following problem was studied: A random sample of size t is taken from a world (i.e., probability space) of size n; bound the expected value of the probability of the set of elements not appearing in the sample (unseen mass) in terms of t and n. Here we study the same problem, where the world may be countably infinite, and the probability measure on it is restricted to have an entropy of at most h. We provide tight bounds on the maximum of the expected unseen mass, along with a characterization of the measures attaining this maximum.
Likelihood Ratio Tests of Restrictions on Common Trends Loading Matrices in I(2) VAR Systems
Authors: Boswijk H. , Paruolo Paolo
Published: June 2017

Likelihood ratio tests of over-identifying restrictions on the common trends loading matrices in I(2) VAR systems are discussed. It is shown how hypotheses on the common trends loading matrices can be translated into hypotheses on the cointegration parameters. Algorithms for (constrained) maximum likelihood estimation are presented, and asymptotic properties sketched. The techniques are illustrated using the analysis of the PPP and UIP between Switzerland and the US.
Lessons Learned from the Dying2Learn MOOC: Pedagogy, Platforms and Partnerships
Authors: Rawlings Deb , Miller-Lewis Lauren , Collien David , Tieman Jennifer , Parker Deborah , Sanderson Christine
Published: June 2017

(1) Background: Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are becoming more commonplace in the delivery of free online education and a Dying2Learn MOOC was offered by a team at Palliative and Supportive Services, Flinders University, South Australia; (2) Methods: Working with the OpenLearning platform developer, a research study and MOOC evaluation were embedded in the course, and content was delivered in innovative ways without compromising pedagogical approaches; (3) Results: This MOOC provided the facilitators with the opportunity to view education as an intervention, with testing undertaken, including measuring attitudinal change. Research, clinical and community partnerships were developed or reaffirmed and the value of ongoing partnerships with developers in creating platforms and tools that can expand the options for online learning is highlighted. Opportunities for future health professional and consumer education were also explored; (4) Conclusion: MOOCs can provide innovative opportunities to redesign educational approaches, which can be achieved by working with new technologies and with platform developers, while still adhering to pedagogical principles.
Life Cycle Cost and Sensitivity Analysis of Reutealis trisperma as Non-Edible Feedstock for Future Biodiesel Production
Authors: Riayatsyah Teuku Meurah Indra , Ong Hwai Chyuan , Chong Wen Tong , Aditya Lisa , Hermansyah Heri , Mahlia Teuku Meurah Indra
Published: June 2017

The use of non-edible, second-generation feedstocks for the production of biodiesel has been an active area of research, due to its potential in replacing fossil diesel as well as its environmentally friendly qualities. Despite this, more needs to be done to remove the technical barriers associated with biodiesel production and usage, to increase its quality as well as to widen the choice of available feedstocks; so as to avoid over-dependence on limited sources. This paper assesses the feasibility of using a local plant, Reutealis trisperma, whose seeds contain a high percentage of oil of up to 51%, as one of the possible feedstocks. The techno-economic and sensitivity analysis of biodiesel production from Reutealis trisperma oil as well as implementation aspects and environmental effects of the biodiesel plant are discussed. Analysis indicates that the 50 kt Reutealis trisperma biodiesel production plant has a life cycle cost of approximately $710 million, yielding a payback period of 4.34 years. The unit cost of the biodiesel is calculated to be $0.69/L with the feedstock cost accounting for the bulk of the cost. The most important finding from this study is that the biodiesel from Reutealis trisperma oil can compete with fossil diesel, provided that appropriate policies of tax exemptions and subsidies can be put in place. To conclude, further studies on biodiesel production and its limitations are necessary before the use of biodiesel from Reutealis trisperma oil may be used as a fuel source to replace fossil diesel.
Demand Response Resource Allocation Method Using Mean-Variance Portfolio Theory for Load Aggregators in the Korean Demand Response Market
Authors: Chae Jaeyong , Joo Sung-Kwan
Published: June 2017

Since the demand response (DR) market was introduced in Korea, load aggregators have also been allowed to participate in the electricity market. However, a risk-management-based method for the efficient operation of demand response resources (DRRs) has not been studied from the load aggregators’ perspective. In this paper, a systematic DRR allocation method is proposed for load aggregators to operate DRRs using mean-variance portfolio theory. The proposed method is designed to determine the lowest-risk DRR portfolio for a given level of expected return using mean-variance portfolio theory from the perspective of load aggregators. The numerical results show that the proposed method can be used to reduce the risk compared to that obtained by the baseline method, in which all individual DRRs are allocated in a DRR group by maximum curtailment capability.
Comment on the Article Published in Forest by Maria Fernanda Gebara and Arun Agrawal, Forests 2017, 8, 66
Authors: Pinto Erika , Moutinho Paulo , Stella Osvaldo
Published: June 2017

The article entitled “Beyond Rewards and Punishments in the Brazilian Amazon: Practical Implications of the REDD+ Discourse” [1], published in the journal “Forests”, provides an interesting analysis for evaluating the performance of payment for environmental services (PES) initiatives in the region.
Analysis of Hypericin-Mediated Effects and Implications for Targeted Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Mühleisen Laura , Alev Magdalena , Unterweger Harald , Subatzus Daniel , Pöttler Marina , Friedrich Ralf , Alexiou Christoph , Janko Christina
Published: June 2017

The phototoxic effect of hypericin can be utilized for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) of cancer. After intravenous application and systemic distribution of the drug in the patient’s body, the tumor site is exposed to light. Subsequently, toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated, inducing tumor cell death. To prevent unwanted activation of the drug in other regions of the body, patients have to avoid light during and after the treatment cycles, consequently impairing quality of life. Here, we characterize toxicity and hypericin-mediated effects on cancer cells in vitro and confirm that its effect clearly depends on concentration and illumination time. To reduce side effects and to increase therapy success, selective accumulation of hypericin in the tumor region is a promising solution. Loading hypericin on superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) and guiding them to the desired place using an external magnetic field might accomplish this task (referred to as Magnetic Drug Targeting (MDT)). Thus, using a double targeting strategy, namely magnetic accumulation and laser induced photoactivation, might improve treatment effectivity as well as specificity and reduce toxic side effects in future clinical applications.
Effect of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) and Ageing on T-Bet and Eomes Expression on T-Cell Subsets
Authors: Hassouneh Fakhri , Lopez-Sejas Nelson , Campos Carmen , Sanchez-Correa Beatriz , Tarazona Raquel , Pera Alejandra , Solana Rafael
Published: June 2017

The differential impact of ageing and cytomegalovirus (CMV) latent infection on human T-cell subsets remains to some extent controversial. The purpose of this study was to analyse the expression of the transcription factors T-bet and Eomes and CD57 on CD4+, CD4hiCD8lo and CD8+ T-cell subsets in healthy individuals, stratified by age and CMV serostatus. The percentage of CD4+ T-cells expressing T-bet or Eomes was very low, in particular in CD4+ T-cells from young CMV-seronegative individuals, and were higher in CMV-seropositive older individuals, in both CD57− and CD57+ CD4+ T-cells. The study of the minor peripheral blood double-positive CD4hiCD8lo T-cells showed that the percentage of these T-cells expressing both Eomes and T-bet was higher compared to CD4+ T-cells. The percentage of CD4hiCD8lo T-cells expressing T-bet was also associated with CMV seropositivity and the coexpression of Eomes, T-bet and CD57 on CD4hiCD8lo T-cells was only observed in CMV-seropositive donors, supporting the hypothesis that these cells are mature effector memory cells. The percentage of T-cells expressing Eomes and T-bet was higher in CD8+ T-cells than in CD4+ T-cells. The percentages of CD8+ T-cells expressing Eomes and T-bet increased with age in CMV-seronegative and -seropositive individuals and the percentages of CD57− CD8+ and CD57+ CD8+ T-cells coexpressing both transcription factors were similar in the different groups studied. These results support that CMV chronic infection and/or ageing are associated to the expansion of highly differentiated CD4+, CD4hiCD8lo and CD8+ T-cells that differentially express T-bet and Eomes suggesting that the expression of these transcription factors is essential for the generation and development of an effector-memory and effector T lymphocytes involved in conferring protection against chronic CMV infection.
Loss of Bone Mineral Density Associated with Age in Male Rats Fed on Sunflower Oil Is Avoided by Virgin Olive Oil Intake or Coenzyme Q Supplementation
Authors: Varela-López Alfonso , Ochoa Julio J. , Llamas-Elvira José M. , López-Frías Magdalena , Planells Elena , Speranza Lorenza , Battino Maurizio , Quiles José L.
Published: June 2017

The role of dietary fat unsaturation and the supplementation of coenzyme Q have been evaluated in relation to bone health. Male Wistar rats were maintained for 6 or 24 months on two diets varying in the fat source, namely virgin olive oil, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, or sunflower oil, rich in n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Both dietary fats were supplemented or not with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). Bone mineral density (BMD) was evaluated in the femur. Serum levels of osteocalcin, osteopontin, receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and parathyroid hormone (PTH), as well as urinary F2-isoprostanes were measured. Aged animals fed on virgin olive oil showed higher BMD than those fed on sunflower oil. In addition, CoQ10 prevented the age-related decline in BMD in animals fed on sunflower oil. Urinary F2-isoprostanes analysis showed that sunflower oil led to the highest oxidative status in old animals, which was avoided by supplementation with CoQ10. In conclusion, lifelong feeding on virgin olive oil or the supplementation of sunflower oil on CoQ10 prevented, at least in part mediated by a low oxidative stress status, the age-related decrease in BMD found in sunflower oil fed animals.
Dry Eye Management: Targeting the Ocular Surface Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Xiaobo , M Vimalin Jeyalatha , Qu Yangluowa , He Xin , Ou Shangkun , Bu Jinghua , Jia Changkai , Wang Junqi , Wu Han , Liu Zuguo , Li Wei
Published: June 2017

Dry eye can damage the ocular surface and result in mild corneal epithelial defect to blinding corneal pannus formation and squamous metaplasia. Significant progress in the treatment of dry eye has been made in the last two decades; progressing from lubricating and hydrating the ocular surface with artificial tear to stimulating tear secretion; anti-inflammation and immune regulation. With the increase in knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of dry eye, we propose in this review the concept of ocular surface microenvironment. Various components of the microenvironment contribute to the homeostasis of ocular surface. Compromise in one or more components can result in homeostasis disruption of ocular surface leading to dry eye disease. Complete evaluation of the microenvironment component changes in dry eye patients will not only lead to appropriate diagnosis, but also guide in timely and effective clinical management. Successful treatment of dry eye should be aimed to restore the homeostasis of the ocular surface microenvironment.
Computing Free Energies of Hydroxylated Silica Nanoclusters: Forcefield versus Density Functional Calculations
Authors: Macià Escatllar Antoni , Ugliengo Piero , Bromley Stefan
Published: June 2017

We assess the feasibility of efficiently calculating accurate thermodynamic properties of (SiO2)n·(H2O)m nanoclusters, using classical interatomic forcefields (FFs). Specifically, we use a recently parameterized FF for hydroxylated bulk silica systems (FFSiOH) to calculate zero-point energies and thermal contributions to vibrational internal energy and entropy, in order to estimate the free energy correction to the internal electronic energy of these nanoclusters. The performance of FFSiOH is then benchmarked against the results of corresponding calculations using density functional theory (DFT) calculations employing the B3LYP functional. Results are reported first for a set of (SiO2)n·(H2O)m clusters with n = 4, 8 and 16, each possessing three different degrees of hydroxylation (R = m/n): 0.0, 0.25 and 0.5. Secondly, we consider five distinct hydroxylated nanocluster isomers with the same (SiO2)16·(H2O)4 composition. Finally, the free energies for the progressive hydroxylation of three nanoclusters with R = 0–0.5 are also calculated. Our results demonstrate that, in all cases, the use of FFSiOH can provide estimates of thermodynamic properties with an accuracy close to that of DFT calculations, and at a fraction of the computational cost.
A Summary of the Special Issue “Emerging Network-on-Chip Architectures for Low Power Embedded Systems”
Authors: Patti Davide
Published: June 2017

The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors [1] foresees that the number of processing elements that will be integrated into a system-on-chip will be on the order of thousands by 2020.[...]
Isobenzofuranones and Isochromenones from the Deep-Sea Derived Fungus Leptosphaeria sp. SCSIO 41005
Authors: Luo Xiaowei , Lin Xiuping , Salendra Limbadri , Pang Xiaoyan , Dai Yu , Yang Bin , Liu Juan , Wang Junfeng , Zhou Xuefeng , Liu Yonghong
Published: June 2017

Four new isobenzofuranones, leptosphaerins J–M (1–4), including an unusual naturally-occurring centrosymmetric dimer skeleton (1), and two new isochromenones, clearanols I–J (9–10), were obtained from a culture of a deep-sea sediment-derived fungus Leptosphaeria sp. SCSIO 41005, together with four known isobenzofuranones (5–8) and six known isochromenones (11–16). These structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, and absolute configurations were assigned on the basis of electronic circular dichroism and optical rotations data comparison. Additionally, the absolute configurations of the new compounds 1 and 9, together with the known one 7 with stereochemistry undetermined, were further confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. A plausible biosynthetic pathway of these isobenzofuranones and isochromenones was also proposed.
Antibacterial Activity of AI-Hemocidin 2, a Novel N-Terminal Peptide of Hemoglobin Purified from Arca inflata
Authors: Li Chunlei , Zhu Jianhua , Wang Yanqing , Chen Yuyan , Song Liyan , Zheng Weiming , Li Jingjing , Yu Rongmin
Published: June 2017

The continued emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in recent years is of great concern. The search for new classes of antibacterial agents has expanded to non-traditional sources such as shellfish. An antibacterial subunit of hemoglobin (Hb-I) was purified from the mantle of Arca inflata by phosphate extraction and ion exchange chromatography. A novel antibacterial peptide, AI-hemocidin 2, derived from Hb-I, was discovered using bioinformatics analysis. It displayed antibacterial activity across a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranging from 37.5 to 300 μg/mL, and it exhibited minimal hemolytic or cytotoxic activities. The antibacterial activity of AI-hemocidin 2 was thermostable (25–100 °C) and pH resistant (pH 3–10). The cellular integrity was determined by flow cytometry. AI-hemocidin 2 was capable of permeating the cellular membrane. Changes in the cell morphology were observed with a scanning electron microscope. Circular dichroism spectra suggested that AI-hemocidin 2 formed an α-helix structure in the membrane mimetic environment. The results indicated that the anti-bacterial mechanism for AI-hemocidin 2 occurred through disrupting the cell membrane. AI-hemocidin 2 might be a potential candidate for tackling antibiotic resistant bacteria.
Thermal Stability of Phase-Separated Domains in Multicomponent Lipid Membranes with Local Anesthetics
Authors: Sugahara Ko , Shimokawa Naofumi , Takagi Masahiro
Published: June 2017

The functional mechanisms of local anesthetics (LAs) have not yet been fully explained, despite their importance in modern medicine. Recently, an indirect interaction between channel proteins and LAs was proposed as follows: LAs alter the physical properties of lipid membranes, thus affecting the channel proteins. To examine this hypothesis, we investigated changes in thermal stability in lipid membranes consisting of dioleoylphosphocholine, dipalmitoylphosphocholine, and cholesterol by adding the LAs, lidocaine and tetracaine. The miscibility temperature of liquid-ordered (Lo) and liquid-disordered (Ld) phase separation was lowered, whereas that of phase separation between solid-ordered (So) and Ld phases was unchanged by LAs. Furthermore, we measured the line tension at the Lo/Ld interface from domain boundary fluctuation and found that it was significantly decreased by LAs. Finally, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) revealed a change in the lipid main transition temperature on the addition of LAs. Based on the DSC measurements, we considered that LAs are partitioned into two coexisting phases.
Comparable Performance Characteristics of Plasma Thiamine and Erythrocyte Thiamine Diphosphate in Response to Thiamine Fortification in Rural Cambodian Women
Authors: McCann Adrian , Midttun Øivind , Whitfield Kyly , Kroeun Hou , Borath Mam , Sophonneary Prak , Ueland Per , Green Timothy
Published: June 2017

Background: Traditionally, vitamin B1 status is assessed by a functional test measuring erythrocyte transketolase (ETK) activity or direct measurement of erythrocyte thiamine diphosphate (eThDP) concentration. However, such analyses are logistically challenging, and do not allow assessment of vitamin B1 status in plasma/serum samples stored in biobanks. Using a multiplex assay, we evaluated plasma concentrations of thiamine and thiamine monophosphate (TMP), as alternative, convenient measures of vitamin B1 status. Methods: We investigated the relationships between the established biomarker eThDP and plasma concentrations of thiamine and TMP, and compared the response of these thiamine forms to thiamine fortification using samples from 196 healthy Cambodian women (aged 18–45 years.). eThDP was measured by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD) and plasma thiamine and TMP by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results: Plasma thiamine and TMP correlated significantly with eThDP at baseline and study-end (p < 0.05). Among the fortification groups, the strongest response was observed for plasma thiamine (increased by 266%), while increases in plasma TMP (60%) and eThDP (53%) were comparable. Conclusions: Plasma thiamine and TMP correlated positively with eThDP, and all thiamine forms responded significantly to thiamine intervention. Measuring plasma concentrations of thiamine forms is advantageous due to convenient sample handling and capacity to develop low volume, high-throughput, multiplex assays.
Theoretical Analysis of Critical Flowable Physical Gel Cross-Linked by Metal Ions and Polyacrylamide-Derivative Associating Polymers Containing Imidazole Groups
Authors: Ozaki Hiroto , Narita Tetsuharu , Koga Tsuyoshi , Indei Tsutomu
Published: June 2017

When the polymer chains are cross-linked by physical bonds having a finite lifetime, the relaxation time and viscosity do not diverge at the gel point though percolation occurs. These undivergent quantities are related to the finite-sized “largest relaxed cluster,” which can relax before it breaks. Its size is the key rheological parameter characterizing of the critical physical gels. In order to evaluate this characteristic size, we propose here a generalized phenomenological model for the viscoelasticity of critical physical gels. We apply the theory to the previously reported experimental result for the physical gel consisting of polyacrylamide-derivative associating polymers containing imidazole groups cross-linked by coordination bonds with Ni ions. We successfully estimate the size of the largest relaxed cluster and the fractal dimension. The size is in good agreement with that estimated from the mean-square displacement of probe particles at the gel point by microrheological measurement. We also compare this system with the poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogel cross-linked by borate ions, and show that the difference in the cluster structures is originating from the differences of precursor chain properties such as overlap concentration and radius of gyration and of the cross-linking states in these systems.
Forensic Engineering of Advanced Polymeric Materials—Part V: Prediction Studies of Aliphatic–Aromatic Copolyester and Polylactide Commercial Blends in View of Potential Applications as Compostable Cosmetic Packages
Authors: Sikorska Wanda , Rydz Joanna , Wolna-Stypka Katarzyna , Musioł Marta , Adamus Grażyna , Kwiecień Iwona , Janeczek Henryk , Duale Khadar , Kowalczuk Marek
Published: June 2017

The main aim of the present study was to determine the behavior of the specimens from Ecovio, in the form of dumbbell-shaped samples and films, during degradation in selected cosmetic ingredients such as water and paraffin. The (bio)degradation test of the prototype cosmetic package (sachet) made from a PBAT (poly[(1,4-butylene adipate)-co-(1,4-butylene terephthalate)]) and PLA (polylactide) blend was investigated under industrial composting conditions, and compared with the sample behavior during incubation in cosmetic media at 70 °C. During the degradation tests, the changes of the samples were evaluated using optical microscopy, 1H NMR (proton nuclear magnetic resonance) and GPC (gel permeation chromatography) techniques. The structures of the degradation products were investigated using ESI-MSn (mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization on positive and negative ions) analysis. The thermal properties of selected materials were determined by DSC (differential scanning calorimetry) and TGA (thermogravimetric analysis) analysis. It was concluded that the PBAT and PLA blend studied had a good stability during aging in cosmetic media, and could be recommended for long-shelf-life compostable packaging of cosmetics, especially with oily ingredients.
Complementarity of Hydro, Photovoltaic, and Wind Power in Rio de Janeiro State
Authors: De Oliveira Costa Souza Rosa Caroline , Costa Kelly , Da Silva Christo Eliane , Braga Bertahone Pâmela
Published: June 2017

Integrating renewable and intermittent energy sources into the electricity sector challenges traditional energy systems based on predictability and constant supply. Studies oncomplementarity between climate-related resources from different regions and countries are proving to be an efficient means to overcome the variability of single-source use. Although Rio de Janeiro State (Brazil) has set goals of increasing its use of clean and low carbon energy, there is no study to support the expansion process. Given that, this work aims to assess the complementarity potential of small hydropower plants, wind farms, and photovoltaic panels in the state. Power output estimates have been based on wind speeds, solar radiation and river flow data and without generation technologies assumptions. The Pearson correlation coefficient and linear programming have been used to comprehend and optimize the renewable mix. Daily complementarity has been observed among the energy sources considered, especially between hydro and solar resources. The optimization process showed an improvement of 61% in the total power standard deviation, from the worst—100% hydro power—to the best case—62% of photovoltaic, 21% of wind, and 17% of hydro power. The results highlight the benefits of appropriately joining the three sources and suggest investing in photovoltaic generation.
Sources of Organizational Resilience for Sustainable Communities: An Institutional Collective Action Perspective
Authors: Jung Kyujin
Published: June 2017

Scholars in the field of sustainability have often argued that the purpose of establishing and maintaining interorganizational collaboration is to overcome internal limitations of organizations and to strengthen organizational capacity. To examine structural effects of inter-organizational collaboration regarding the ability of networked organizations to effectively manage disasters, this study uses an institutional collective action framework to design a critical lens to objectively analyze collective action issues in inter-organizational collaboration networks. Results, based on the Heckman selection model with two stages, provide evidence that networked organizations holding a central position between two other actors perceive a higher level of disaster resilience. The finding implies that local organizations with a bridging strategy can enhance their capacity to recover from a catastrophic event by securing access to critical resources and information through comprehensive emergency preparedness such as joint response and recovery planning.
Overview of Current Microgrid Policies, Incentives and Barriers in the European Union, United States and China
Authors: Ali Amjad , Li Wuhua , Hussain Rashid , He Xiangning , Williams Barry , Memon Abdul
Published: June 2017

Continuously increasing demand of microgrids with high penetration of distributed energy generators, mainly renewable energy sources, is modifying the traditional structure of the electric distribution grid. Major power consumer countries are looking for alternative energy sources to avoid the impact of higher fossil fuel consumption. Thus, different policies have been promulgated to promote renewable energy technologies (RETs) and distributed energy resource (DER) deployment and are encouraging technological innovation. These policies aim to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieve energy security and independence to meet an ever-increasing electricity demand. Many studies have been performed on the successful integration of RET and DER operation and control, protection and stability issues, all simultaneously and satisfactorily implemented during feasible microgrid operation. However, apart from the technical challenges, few microgrid studies exist on effective policies and incentives for microgrid promotion and deployment. This survey investigates the policy, regulatory and financial (economical and commercial) barriers, which hinder the deployment of microgrids in the European Union (EU), United States (USA) and China. In this paper, a clear view on microgrid policy instruments and challenges are investigated to aid future developments.
Study on the Association among Mycotoxins and other Variables in Children with Autism
Authors: De Santis Barbara , Raggi Maria , Moretti Giorgio , Facchiano Francesco , Mezzelani Alessandra , Villa Laura , Bonfanti Arianna , Campioni Alessandra , Rossi Stefania , Camposeo Serena , Soricelli Sabina , Moracci Gabriele , Debegnach Francesca , Gregori Emanuela , Ciceri Francesca , Milanesi Luciano , Marabotti Anna , Brera Carlo
Published: June 2017

Environmental factors and genetic susceptibility are implicated in the increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Mycotoxins are agricultural contaminants of fungal origin that represent real risk factors for human health and especially for children. Thus, the main hypothesis of this work is that the deterioration of the clinical manifestation of autism in children may result from the exposure to mycotoxins through the consumption of contaminated food. Within a cross-sectional study, a group of autistic children (n = 172) and a group of controls (n = 61) (siblings and non-parental) were recruited in North and South Italy. All children had blood and urine samples taken, for testing some mycotoxins by a LC–MS/MS validated method. Blood samples were also tested for assessing specific IgG against food and fungal antigens and cytokines. The analyses outputs highlighted statistically significant differences comparing mycotoxins levels between (i) children groups both in urine (deoxynivalenol and de-epoxydeoxynivalenol, p = 0.0141 and p = 0.0259, respectively) and serum (aflatoxin M1, ochratoxin A and fumonisin B1, p = 0.0072, p = 0.0141 and p = 0.0061, respectively); (ii) a group of selected fungal IgGs, and IgGs against wheat and gluten and (iii) cytokines. These results suggest the need for a deeper examination of the role that mycotoxins may have on the etiology of ASD.
Runoff Responses to Climate and Land Use/Cover Changes under Future Scenarios
Authors: Pan Sihui , Liu Dedi , Wang Zhaoli , Zhao Qin , Zou Hui , Hou Yukun , Liu Pan , Xiong Lihua
Published: June 2017

Climate and land use/cover (LUC) are the two most significant factors that directly affect the runoff process. However, most research on runoff response has focused mainly on projected climate variation, while future LUC variability has been neglected. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the impacts of projected climate and LUC changes on runoff. Future climate scenarios are projected using the Quantile Mapping (QM) method, and future LUC scenarios are predicted with the Cellular Automaton-Markov (CA-Markov) model. Three different scenarios are simulated and compared to evaluate their impacts: Scenario 1 (LUC of 2010 and climate during the 2011–2050 period, abbreviated S1), Scenario 2 (LUC of 2010, 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050 and climate of the historical wet year, normal year and dry year, abbreviated S2) and Scenario 3 (LUC of 2010, 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050 and corresponding climate projections of 2011–2020, 2021–2030, 2031–2040 and 2041–2050 period, abbreviated S3). These three scenarios are then input into the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model to assess runoff responses. Beijiang River Basin, located in southern China, is used in this case study. The results obtained from S1, S2 and S3 show that runoff change in this basin is mainly caused by climate change; warmer temperatures and greater precipitation increase runoff. LUC change has little influence on runoff at the whole-basin scale, but changes in runoff components are more notable in the urban area than in the natural region at the sub-watershed level. The impact of LUC change in urbanized region on runoff components differ obviously among the wet, normal and dry years, and surface runoff and groundwater are found to be more sensitive to urbanization. Runoff depth is predicted to increase in this basin under the impacts of both climate and LUC changes in the future. Climate change brings greater increase in water yield and surface runoff, whereas LUC change leads to changes in allocation between surface runoff and groundwater in the urban region.
Effects of N/S Molar Ratio on Product Formation in Psychrophilic Autotrophic Biological Removal of Sulfide
Authors: Sposob Michal , Bakke Rune , Dinamarca Carlos
Published: June 2017

The excessive H2S presence in water and wastewater can lead to corrosion, toxicity, and biological processes inhibition—i.e., anaerobic digestion. Production of H2S can occur in psychrophilic conditions. Biological removal of HS− by addition of NO3− as an electron acceptor under psychrophilic (10 °C) conditions in a continuous flow experiment is evaluated here. Four different N/S molar ratios—0.35, 0.40, 0.60, and 1.30—were tested in an expanded granular sludge bed (EGSB) reactor. Samples were analyzed daily by ion chromatography. Efficient psychrophilic HS− removal with sulfur products oxidation control by NO3− supply is documented. The highest HS− removal was obtained at N/S = 0.35 and 1.30 (89.1 ± 2.2 and 89.6 ± 2.9%). Removal of HS− was less at mid-N/S with the lowest value (76.9 ± 2.6%) at N/S = 0.60. NO3− removal remained high for all N/S ratios. N/S molar ratio influenced the sulfur products distribution with less S0 and increase in SO42− effluent concentration with increasing N/S ratio. Oxidation of HS− and accumulated S0 occurred simultaneously at N/S ratios >0.35. The observations are explained by culture flexibility in utilizing available resources for energy gain.
REPRESENTATIVENESS OF EUROPEAN BIOCHAR RESEARCH: PART II – POT AND LABORATORY STUDIES
Authors: SAKRABANI Ruben , KERN Jürgen , MANKASINGH Utra , ZAVALLONI Costanza , ZANCHETTIN Giulia , BASTOS Ana Catarina , TAMMEORG Priit , JEFFERY Simon , GLASER Bruno , VERHEIJEN Frank G. A.
Published: June 2017

Biochar research is extensive and there are many pot and laboratory studies carried out in Europe to investigate the mechanistic understanding that govern its impact on soil processes. A survey was conducted in order to find out how representative these studies under controlled experimental conditions are of actual environmental conditions in Europe and biomass availability and conversion technologies. The survey consisted of various key questions related to types of soil and biochar used, experimental conditions and effects of biochar additions on soil chemical, biological and physical properties. This representativeness study showed that soil texture and soil organic carbon contents used by researchers are well reflected in the current biochar research in Europe (through comparison with published literature), but less so for soil ph and soil type. This study provides scope for future work to complement existing research findings, avoiding unnecessary repetitions and highlighting existing research gaps.
Offrandes hellénistiques en miniature : le mobilier d’une tombe d’enfant d’érétrie conservé au musée du Louvre
Authors: Hasselin Rous Isabelle , Huguenot Caroline , Gerin Dominique
Published: June 2017

Le musée du Louvre acquérait en 1892 le contenu d’une tombe d’enfant découverte dans une des nécropoles d’Érétrie (Eubée). Ce matériel, resté en grande partie inédit, consiste en plus de cinquante objets de nature et matériaux variés (bronze, argent, plomb, bois, verre, os, argile) en bon état de conservation. La rareté d’un tel ensemble, composé de meubles et vaisselle miniatures, d’objets de toilette et du quotidien, d’offrandes alimentaires et monétaires, de jouets, d’éléments de parure et de figurines, témoigne de l’appartenance de l’enfant à une riche famille érétrienne. L’étude du matériel et des monnaies permet d’identifier une sépulture de jeune fille, datée des premières décennies de l’époque hellénistique. C’est un exceptionnel témoignage des rituels funéraires en usage à cette époque à Érétrie, qui reflète les nouveautés artistiques importées du continent grec en Eubée.
Le type statuaire de la Venus de Milo
Authors: Hamiaux Marianne
Published: June 2017

L’étude du type statuaire de la Vénus de Milo pose d’abord la question de l’angle de vue principal de la statue. La comparaison avec trois sculptures romaines, l’Aphrodite de Capoue, une statuette de Corinthe et l’Aphrodite de Pergé, permet de privilégier la vue de trois quarts droit et de montrer qu’ainsi les quatre œuvres relèvent du même type. Il est alors possible de mettre en évidence leurs similitudes et leurs différences (attitude, draperie, position de la tête), et, à l’aide d’autres documents, de cerner le type statuaire dont elles sont issues. C’est celui de la statue de culte du temple d’Aphrodite sur l’Acrocorinthe, qui illustre au iv e  s. av. n. ère le thème d’« Aphrodite se regardant dans le bouclier d’Arès ». Adaptée au goût de son temps, la Vénus de Milo est une version hellénistique de ce type statuaire, qui a été diversement réinterprété à l’époque romaine, surtout en Victoire écrivant sur un bouclier, puis en Aphrodite écrivant sur un bouclier. Un addendum sur le type statuaire de la Victoire de Brescia clôt cette étude.