bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Decrease in serum chemerin through aerobic exercise plus dieting and its association with mitigation of cardio-metabolic risk in obese female adolescents
Authors: Liu Min , Lin Xiaojing , Wang Xiaohui 
Published: January 2018

Abstract

Background:
The objective of this study was to determine the effects of a 4-week aerobic exercise plus dieting intervention on serum chemerin in obese female adolescents and its possible role in mitigating cardio-metabolic risk including glucose and lipid metabolism, central fat and inflammation.

Methods:
Fifty obese female adolescents were randomly divided into two groups: exercise plus dieting group (n=30) and dieting group (n=20). The participants in the exercise plus dieting group completed 4 weeks of moderate aerobic exercise combined with dieting, while the subjects in the dieting group undertook only dieting. Before and after the experiments, anthropometric index, parameters of glucose and lipid metabolism, serum chemerin and classic inflammatory indicators (C-reactive protein [CRP], tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α], interleukin-1β [IL-1β], IL-6, leptin and adiponectin) were measured.

Results:
Compared with the dieting group, a decrease in serum chemerin was found in the exercise plus dieting group, accompanied by significant improvements in anthropometric index, glucose and lipid metabolism and inflammatory factors. In addition, a higher serum chemerin level was found in obese adolescents with metabolic syndrome (MetS), and the disappearance of MetS induced by exercise plus dieting might be related to the decrease in chemerin. Correlation analysis showed the correlations of the decrease in chemerin with the changes in body fat, glucose and lipid metabolic index, leptin and adiponectin/leptin ratio.

Conclusions:
This is the first report that as short a duration as 4-week aerobic exercise plus dieting decreased serum chemerin in obese female adolescents, which might be associated with the improvement in glucose and lipid metabolism, mitigation of inflammation and decrease in MetS incidence, thus lowering cardio-metabolic risk, while no health benefit resulted from slight dieting.
Landform values for rural sustainability: Recognition and assessment in a Spanish–Portuguese border region case study
Authors: De Uña-Álvarez Elena , Álvarez-Vázquez Miguel Ángel , Cuquejo-Bello María del Carmen 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Landform assemblages may be used to define sites of geomorphological interest which are resources for rural sustainability. This paper focuses on the valuation and significance of such sites in the context of one European internal border region, illustrated using a case study from the inland mountains of the Spanish-Portuguese border: the Serra do Larouco. The theoretical and methodological approach used includes the recognition, inventory and assessment of a preliminary list of twenty-eight sites. They comprise diverse granitic landforms which characterise the rural inland landscapes in the North West of the Iberian Peninsula. The results from the qualitative and quantitative assessments were the basis for a final selection of nine sites as significant land resources. An analysis of their key values supports the proposal of different use and management options to promote rural sustainability. A review of the methodology applied and the consideration of other case studies provide a means to interpret and discuss the regional and local significance of the selected sites. The conclusions emphasise the crucial role that values linked to landforms can play in little-known mountainous and rural border regions, suggesting a future research agenda.
Effects of light pollution on tree phenology in the urban environment
Authors: Škvareninová Jana , Tuhárska Mária , Škvarenina Jaroslav , Babálová Darina , Slobodníková Lenka , Slobodník Branko , Středová Hana , Minďaš Jozef 
Published: January 2018

AbstractResearch on urban climates has been an important topic in recent years, given the growing number of city inhabitants and significant influences of climate on health. Nevertheless, far less research has focused on the impacts of light pollution, not only on humans, but also on plants and animals in the landscape. This paper reports a study measuring the intensity of light pollution and its impact on the autumn phenological phases of tree species in the town of Zvolen (Slovakia). The research was carried out at two housing estates and in the central part of the town in the period 2013–2016. The intensity of ambient nocturnal light at 18 measurement points was greater under cloudy weather than in clear weather conditions. Comparison with the ecological standard for Slovakia showed that average night light values in the town centre and in the housing estate with an older type of public lighting, exceeded the threshold value by 5 lux. Two tree species, sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus L.) and staghorn sumac (Rhus typhina L.), demonstrated sensitivity to light pollution. The average onset of the autumn phenophases in the crown parts situated next to the light sources was delayed by 13 to 22 days, and their duration was prolonged by 6 to 9 days. There are three major results: (i) the effects of light pollution on organisms in the urban environment are documented; (ii) the results provide support for a theoretical and practical basis for better urban planning policies to mitigate light pollution effects on organisms; and (iii) some limits of the use of plant phenology as a bioindicator of climate change are presented.
Experimental realization of an optical digital comparator using silicon microring resonators
Authors: Tian Yonghui , Xiao Huifu , Wu Xiaosuo , Liu Zilong , Meng Yinghao , Deng Lin , Guo Xiaonan , Liu Guipeng , Yang Jianhong 
Published: January 2018

AbstractWe propose and experimentally demonstrate a silicon photonic circuit that can perform the comparison operation of two-bit digital signals based on microring resonators (MRRs). Two binary electrical signals regarded as two operands of desired comparison digital signals are applied to three MRRs to modulate their resonances through the microheaters fabricated on the top of MRRs, respectively (here, one binary electrical signal is applied to two MRRs by a 1×2 electrical power splitter, which means that the two MRRs are modulated by the same binary electrical signal). The comparison results of two binary electrical signals can be obtained at two output ports in the form of light. The proposed device is fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator substrate using the complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor fabrication process, and the dynamic characterization of the device with the operation speed of 10 kbps is demonstrated successfully.
Definition of the mole (IUPAC Recommendation 2017)
Authors: Marquardt Roberto , Meija Juris , Mester Zoltán , Towns Marcy , Weir Ron , Davis Richard , Stohner Jürgen 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
In 2011 the General Conference on Weights and Measures (CGPM) noted the intention of the International Committee for Weights and Measures (CIPM) to revise the entire International System of Units (SI) by linking all seven base units to seven fundamental physical constants. Of particular interest to chemists, new definitions for the kilogram and the mole have been proposed. A recent IUPAC Technical Report discussed these new definitions in relation to immediate consequences for the chemical community. This IUPAC Recommendation on the preferred definition of the mole follows from this Technical Report. It supports a definition of the mole based on a specified number of elementary entities, in contrast to the present 1971 definition.
Molecular iodine as a mild catalyst for cross-coupling of alkenes and alcohols
Authors: Čebular Klara , Stavber Stojan 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
C–C bond formation is one of the most fundamental approaches toward molecular diversity in organic synthesis. In pursuit of environmentally friendlier chemical approaches to organic chemistry, we present a new metal-free method for direct dehydrative cross-coupling of alcohols and alkenes using molecular iodine as a Lewis acid catalyst under solvent-free reaction conditions. The reaction is atom-economical, tolerant to air and allows simple synthetic procedure, furnishing Csp
3–Csp
2 coupling products with yields up to 97%. The method has proved efficient for coupling of secondary benzyl alcohols with phenyl-substituted alkenes.
Green multicomponent synthesis of four different classes of six-membered N-containing and O-containing heterocycles catalyzed by an efficient chitosan-based magnetic bionanocomposite
Authors: Maleki Ali , Ghassemi Mina , Firouzi-Haji Razieh 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
In this work, an efficient chitosan-based magnetic bionanocomposite was synthesized via a two-step method and characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Then, it was used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the one-pot multicomponent syntheses of a variety of heterocyclic compounds including 2-amino-4H-pyrans, 2-amino-4H-chromens and polyhydroquinoline derivatives in ethanol at room temperature. The catalyst was simply separated from the reaction mixture by an external magnet and reused several times. The products were isolated from the reaction mixtures, without any need of column chromatography, in high-to-excellent yields. A reusable and easily recoverable catalyst, use of a green solvent, room temperature and mild reaction conditions are some advantages of the present work.
Three-dimensional computer models of electrospinning systems
Authors: Smółka Krzysztof , Firych-Nowacka Anna , Lefik Marcin 
Published: January 2018

AbstractElectrospinning is a very interesting method that allows the fabrication of continuous fibers with diameters down to a few nanometers. This paper presents an overview of electrospinning systems as well as their comparison using proposed three-dimensional parameterized numerical models. The presented solutions allow an analysis of the electric field distribution.
The effect of perinatal antibiotic prophylaxis on an early onset of symptomatic infections in newborns
Authors: Szymański Sławomir , Szczerba Katarzyna , Konstanty-Kurkiewicz Violetta 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive perinatal antibiotic therapy on the occurrence of an earlysymptomatic infections in newborns. Material and Methods. The studied material consisted of data obtained from medical records of 1,328 born alive infants and their mothers. Advanced parameters were described with appropriate numbers, arithmetic means, standard deviation, median as well as minimum and maximum values. The level of statistical significance was p<0.05. Results. When it comes to 6.62% of newborns, they demonstrated the presence of early signs of infection. The Group B Streptococcus (GBS) infection was found in 14 cases, but only in 5 of them pure GBS strains were isolated. E. coli bacteria was reported in 33 neonates, while the other bacteria naming: Enterococcus faecalis, Enterobacteriaceae, taphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus were isolated from 42 newborns. Among 24 newborns showing clinical signs of infection and positive indicators of inflammation in laboratory tests, simultaneously negative results of bacteriological cultures were reported. Conclusions. In connection with the introduction of an obligation to perform tests for GBS, amount of used antibiotics is increasing. However, the effectiveness of intrapartum antibiotic therapy and its prevalence appear to be unsatisfactory. The color of amniotic fluid may have an impact on the occurrence of intrauterine infection, including early symptoms of the GBS infection.
Extraction, characterization and biological activity of citrus flavonoids
Authors: Sharma Kavita , Mahato Neelima , Lee Yong Rok 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Citrus is one of the largest and most popular fruit crops commercially grown across the globe. It is not only important in terms of economy but is also popular for its nutritional benefits to human and farm animals. Citrus is available in several varieties, all with attractive colors. It is consumed either fresh or in processed form. After processing, approximately 50% of the fruit remains unconsumed and discarded as waste. The latter includes fruit pith residue, peels and seeds. Direct disposal of these wastes to the environment causes serious problems as these contain bioactive compounds. Release of these bioactive compounds to the open landfills cause bad odor and spread of diseases, and disposal to water bodies or seepage to the underground water table deteriorates water quality and harms aquatic life. In this regard, a number of research are being focused on the development of better reuse methods to obtain value-added phytochemicals as well as for safe disposal. The important phytochemicals obtained from citrus include essential oils, flavonoids, citric acid, pectin, etc., which have now become popular topics in industrial research, food and synthetic chemistry. The present article reviews recent advances in exploring the effects of flavonoids obtained from citrus wastes, the extraction procedure and their usage in view of various health benefits.
Advances in coagulation technique for treatment of fluoride-contaminated water: a critical review
Authors: Dubey Swati , Agrawal Madhu , Gupta Akhilendra Bhushan 
Published: January 2018

AbstractFluoride contamination of groundwater has become a major concern worldwide, resulting in serious medical conditions such as dental and skeletal fluorosis. Consequently, the WHO recommends that drinking water should not contain more than 1.5 mg/l of fluoride. Various defluoridation techniques such as coagulation, reverse osmosis, activated alumina adsorption, and biosorbent adsorption have been developed. Adsorption through the activated alumina and biosorbent process is not cost effective and has regeneration problems, and the reverse osmosis process has the high initial cost which makes it unacceptable for developing countries. Coagulation is a commonly employed field technology for defluoridation, which involves the addition of aluminum salts, lime, and bleaching powder followed by rapid mixing, flocculation, sedimentation, and filtration but suffers from a limitation of high residual aluminum in treated water. This paper critically reviews the recent developments in the coagulation technique for defluoridation along with its comparison to other defluoridation techniques. The review describes the pertinent gaps in the process and throws open suggestions for extending research by citing the recent studies which may lead to the revival of the process. The description about the suspension of alumino-fluoro complexes that constitute a substantial part of the residual aluminum after alum treatment has been narrated in the paper that helps in a deeper understanding of the defluoridation mechanism. To make the process highly suitable for communities, appropriate technological interventions, such as converting it to a continuous mode of operation, replacing alum with poly-aluminum chloride (PAC), and attaching a micro-filtration unit in series of the existing process, can be done. Also, using PAC as a coagulant with sand filtration has to be considered for making the process more efficient.
Mechanisms and treatment of painful neuromas
Authors: Lu Changfeng , Sun Xun , Wang Chong , Wang Yu , Peng Jiang 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
A painful neuroma is a common complication of a peripheral nerve injury or amputation, and it can cause tremendous pain that is resistant to most analgesics. Furthermore, painful neuromas have a high postoperative recurrence rate. Painful neuromas are often accompanied by functional disorders, drastically reducing the patient’s quality of life. Several pathophysiological mechanisms have been proposed to explain this type of neuropathic pain, including peripheral and central sensitisation and the involvement of nerve growth factor, α-smooth muscle actin, the cannabinoid CB2 receptor and structural changes in neuroma fibres. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of neuroma-associated pain are not fully understood, contributing to the challenge of managing patients with painful neuromas. There are several effective treatment methods, although none are universally accepted. This review summarises the common mechanisms and treatments of painful neuromas, attempting to link the mechanisms and treatments. We hope to provide useful guidelines for choosing the appropriate treatment for the management of painful neuromas.
Bioproducts from Potatoes. A Review
Authors: Priedniece Vivita , Spalvins Kriss , Ivanovs Kaspars , Pubule Jelena , Blumberga Dagnija 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The increasing amount of food waste througout the world is becoming a major problem for waste management plants. The food waste produced amounts to 1.3 million tons a year. This is a resource that could be used for production of new products. Decreasing fossil resources and a rapidly growing population lead to the necessity to produce more food and to replace existing with new materials ones that are biological and produce little effect on environment. Bioeconomy is a method that can help achieve production of value-added products that use local resources and waste to manufacture products efficiently. In this article, we are looking at possibilities to use potatoes for production of new materials, such as bioplastics, antioxidants, proteins, instead of their conventional use for food production. We have studied potato components, extraction technologies and summed up possible directions for development for new products, looking at the use of processing waste as a raw material.
Factors blocking the development of north – central Rzeszów
Authors: Rybka Adam , Mazur Rafał 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Rzeszów is one of the best developing cities in Poland. Once the small HQ of a principality - due to complicated historical conditioning - it has now become a place where an increasing number of people choose to live. The city with its bursting life, streets and squares starts and ends, however, in an area which only a few dozen years ago still catered for one fifth of the current population. The main reason for this phenomenon is the presence of spatial barriers, which significantly limit the development of the central urban area. This article analyzes the elements, which block the development of the north-central part of Rzeszów. An appropriate diagnosis of the problem may in the future allow the right actions in urban planning to be taken in order to cross these barriers. This may lead to the future development of areas with huge urbanization potential. Investments undertaken by city authorities to develop the northern peripheries of Rzeszów may trigger the development of the central district in this direction. This may occur as a result of concrete design interventions. The new part of the central district should have the scale and proportions of urban space that answer to the needs of a dynamically developing capital of the Podkarpacie region.
Economic efficiency of application of solar window
Authors: Shapoval Stepan 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Priority and qualitatively new direction in the fuel and energy sector is renewable energy. This paper describes a feasibility study of using solar window in the system of solar heat supply. The article presents literature data about the effectiveness of the use of solar systems in other countries. The results confirm a sufficient efficiency of solar heat supply with using solar Windows. Insights based on practical experience and mathematical calculations, which are aimed at a detailed explanation of economic efficiency of the proposed construction.
Numerical modelling of the reinforced concrete influence on a combined system of tunnel support
Authors: Grujić Bojana , Jokanović Igor , Grujić Žarko , Zeljić Dragana 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
The paper presents the experimental, laboratory determined rheological-dynamic analysis of the properties of fiber reinforced concrete, which was then utilized to show nonlinear analysis of combined system of tunnel support structure. According to the performed experiments and calculations, different processes of destructive behavior of tunnel lining were simulated in combination with elastic and elastic-plastic behavior of materials taking into account the tunnel loading, the interaction between the fiber reinforced concrete and soil, as well as the interaction between the fiber reinforced concrete and the inner lining of the tunnel.
Possibility of heat recovery from gray water in residential building
Authors: Mazur Aleksandra , Słyś Daniel 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Recovery of waste heat from gray water can be an interesting alternative to other energy saving systems in a building, including alternative energy sources. Mainly, due to a number of advantages including independence from weather conditions, small investment outlay, lack of user support, or a slight interference with the installation system. The purpose of this article is to present the financial effectiveness of installations which provide hot, usable water to a detached house, using a Drain Water Heat Recovery (DWHR) system depending on the number of system users and the various combinations of bathing time in the shower, which has an influence on the daily warm water demand in each of the considered options. The economic analysis of the adopted installation variants is based on the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) method, which is characterized by the fact that it also includes the operating costs in addition to the capital expenditure during the entire analysis period. For each case, the necessary devices were selected and the cost of their installation was estimated.
Quaternized Zn(II) phthalocyanines for photodynamic strategy against resistant periodontal bacteria
Authors: Kussovski Vesselin , Mantareva Vanya , Durmuş Mahmut , Angelov Ivan 
Published: January 2018

Abstract
Photodynamic inactivation (PDI) has been featured as an effective strategy in the treatment of acute drug-resistant infections. The efficiency of PDI was evaluated against three periodontal pathogenic bacteria that were tested as drug-resistant strains. In vitro studies were performed with four water-soluble cationic Zn(II) phthalocyanines (ZnPc1–4) and irradiation of a specific light source (light-emitting diode, 665 nm) with three doses (15, 36 and 60 J/cm2). The well detectable fluorescence of ZnPcs allowed the cellular imaging, which suggested relatively high uptakes of ZnPcs into bacterial species. Complete photoinactivation was achieved with all studied ZnPc1–4 for Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) at a light dose of 15 J/cm2. The photodynamic response was high for Prevotella intermedia (P. intermedia) after the application of 6 μM of ZnPc1 and a light dose of 36 J/cm2 and for 6 μM of ZnPc2 at 60 J/cm2. P. intermedia was inactivated with ZnPc3 (4 log) and ZnPc4 (2 log) with irradiation at an optimal dose of 60 J/cm2. Similar photoinactivation results (2 log) were achieved for Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A. actinomycetemcomitans) treated with 6 μM ZnPc1 and ZnPc2 at a light dose of 60 J/cm2. The study suggested that PDI with quaternized Zn(II) phthalocyanines and specific light irradiation appears to be a very useful antimicrobial strategy for effective inactivation of drug-resistant periodontal pathogens.