bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Properties of the Malay Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) Scale in Malaysia
Authors: Chen Won-Sun , Haniff Jamaiyah , Siau Ching-Sin , Seet Wymen , Loh Sit-Fong , Abd Jamil Mohd Hadzrul , Sa'at Nadiah , Baharum Nurakmal
Published: November 2016

Malaysia aims to be one of the developed nations by year 2020; therefore, it is crucial to gauge the quality of working life in a parallel manner using a well-established Work-Related Quality of Life (WRQoL) Scale. The goal of this study is to describe the validity and psychometric properties of the Malay WRQoL Scale in Malaysian population.
A total of 572 respondents took part in this cross-sectional study giving a 97% response rate. The reliability of the Malay WRQoL Scale was assessed using the test retest reliability analysis after a 2-week period. Both the interclass correlation (ICC) and Cronbach’s alpha were within acceptable levels. However in the validity analysis, the exploratory factor analysis only revealed 5 factors instead of 6 in the original scale.
The Malay WRQoL scale has demonstrated to have the appropriate psychometric properties and can therefore be used in Malaysia to assess the quality of working life.
Fostering Student Activism: Barriers, Sharing, and Dialectics
Authors: Christensen M. Candace , Arczynski Alexis V.
Published: November 2016

The present study was an exploratory investigation of interviews with six college students who participated in the development and implementation of a theatre-based sexual assault prevention intervention. We investigated how these students experienced their involvement in activism within the context of developing and presenting a sexual assault prevention program. The research revealed common themes: each student experienced fears about participating in activism or identifying as an activist, had strong desires to share knowledge about sexual assault prevention with their community, and viewed their individual activist identities within a complex understanding of what it meant to be activists. These themes helped us to develop implications for future research and educational practices to support activist identity development.
Quality of Programmes and Training in Youth Polytechnics: An Assessment of the Challenges Facing Youth Polytechnics in Provision of Quality Education and Training in Kenya
Authors: Moturi Moses Onsinyo , Onderi Henry , Mwebi Benard
Published: November 2016

Tertiary education especially in Youth Polytechnics has been identified as the means to provide relevant and adequate technical skills for industrial and economic development consistent with aspirations of Kenya Vision 2030. Youth Polytechnics being accountable to the public as stakeholders need to guarantee that they offer quality training. However, with the diminishing number of students seeking education through Youth Polytechnics, the question of quality is critical and requires urgent attention. The objectives that guided the study were to find out the attitude of stakeholders on quality of programmes offered; Investigate challenges facing Youth Polytechnics in provision of quality education. The study adopted a descriptive research survey design and informed by the Classical Liberal Theory of Equal opportunity and Social Darwinism. The units of analysis were the 31 Youth Polytechnics, 4 were used in the pilot study. Methodology; data was collected through interviews and questionnaires. The findings were that there is shortage of instructors in the Youth Polytechnics and No standardization in academic programmes undertaken across the country. It was concluded that the enrolment was diminishing and quality of training, physical facilities and human resource was wanting.
Sample Size Guideline for Correlation Analysis
Authors: Bujang Mohamad Adam , Baharum Nurakmal
Published: November 2016

Correlation analysis is a common statistical analysis in various fields. The aim is usually to determine to what extent two numerical variables are correlated with each other. One of the issues that are important to be considered before conducting any correlation analysis is to plan for the sufficient sample size. This is to ensure, the results that to be derived from the analysis be able to reach a desired minimum correlation coefficient value with sufficient power and desired type I error or p-value. Sample size estimation for correlation analysis should be in line with the study objective. Researchers who are not statistician need simpler guideline to determine the sufficient sample size for correlation analysis. Therefore, this study aims to tabulate tables that show sample size calculation based on desired correlation coefficient, power and type 1 error (p-value) values. Moving towards that, simpler guidelines are proposed to estimate sufficient sample size requirements in different scenarios.
Islam’s Link to Terror—A Psychology of Denial
Authors: Malmin Mark
Published: November 2016

This positional paper examines mental health issues associated with terrorism, the psychological social and interpersonal dynamics of self-deception, delusion, and denial; and it offers analytical argument, sociological perspective, and comparative theologic analysis and commentary on the epistemology of Islam and radical Islamic terrorism. The disputatious assertion that terrorism has nothing to do with Islam is examined from an evidentiary criminal prima facie perspective. Islam is conceptually linked to various affiliate terrorist groups by its mutual sociology, derivative core ideology, and by its endogenous religious operational authority derived from the Koran. Islamic violence is not limited to terrorism. The feasibility of Islam embracing spiritual reformation is examined. Global terrorism needs to be fought both on the ground and with multifaceted societal strategies that challenge and defeat the ideologic presuppositional arguments that fuel terrorism.
Numerical simulation of potato slices drying using a two-dimensional finite element model
Authors: Beigi Mohsen
Published: November 2016

An experimental and numerical study was conducted to investigate the process of potato slices drying. For simulating the moisture transfer in the samples and predict the dehydration curves, a two-dimensional finite element model was developed and programmed in Compaq Visual Fortran, version 6.5. The model solved the Fick?s second law for slab in a shrinkage system to calculate the unsteady two-dimensional moisture transmission in rectangular coordinates (x,y). Moisture diffusivity and moisture transfer coefficient were determined by minimizing the sum squares of residuals between experimental and numerical predicted data. Shrinkage kinetics of the potato slices during dehydration was determined experimentally and found to be a linear function of removed moisture. The determined parameters were used in the mathematical model. The predicted moisture content values were compared to the experimental data and the validation results demonstrated that the dynamic drying curves were predicted by the methodology very well.
Which institutions are important for firms performance? Evidence from Bayesian model averaging analysis
Authors: Fidrmuc Jarko , Kapounek Svatopluk , Siddiqui Martin
Published: November 2016

Using a rich dataset on individual firms in selected EU countries between 2005 and 2012, we document a surprisingly high share of assets tied in highly inefficient firms. Moreover, we discuss different channels through which institutions may affect firm financial developments and thus the long-run growth. Using Bayesian model averaging analysis, we discuss the importance of different types of economic, financial and political institutions. We show that high institutional quality improves the financial conditions of firms. However, too lax business regulations may worsen firms? performance possibly due to excessive risk taking behavior.
The Universal Call to Holiness and Laity in the Church
Authors: Flanagan Brian P.
Published: November 2016

The article argues that chapter 5 of Lumen Gentium, the Second Vatican Council's Dogmatic Constitution on the Church, and its universal call to holiness, is a key text in understanding the council's teaching on the laity. The article outlines the history of that section during the Second Vatican Council, tracing the origins and development of the concept of the call to holiness in the schema on the church, as it moved from a discussion of vocation to the religious life to a wider appreciation of the various forms of one baptismal call to holiness. It then looks at the post-conciliar history of the call to holiness: first in official treatments such as the 1987 Synod of Bishops and Pope John Paul ii's exhortation Christifideles Laici; and then in practical developments such as the growth of lay pastoral ministries and laity-directed new ecclesial movements and the forms of holiness canonized in an expanded communion of the saints. Finally, it looks at challenges that continued appropriation of the conciliar teaching on the universal call to holiness might face in the future, and at how the renewal of this teaching might offer the church as a whole, including its lay members, a crucial resource in its mission to the world.
In vitro and in situ effects of atorvastatin and ezetimibe on P-glycoprotein expression and function
Authors: Mesgari Abbasi Mehran , Valizadeh Hadi , Hamishehkar Hamed , Bannazadeh Amirkhiz Maryam , Zakeri-Milani Parvin
Published: November 2016

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is a membrane transporter responsible for the active efflux from the cell. Inhibition of the activity may lead to clinically significant drug-drug interactions. This study was performed to investigate the effects of atorvastatin and ezetimibe on the function and expression of P-gp. The in vitro rhodamine-123 (Rho123) efflux assay and Western blot in Caco-2 cells, and the in situ rat single-pass intestinal permeability model followed by high performance liquid chromatography were developed. Rho123 intracellular accumulation in 100 µM of atorvastatin- and ezetimibe-treated cells was significantly higher than that in control cells (p<0.05). P-gp expression was decreased by 100 µM atorvastatin and ezetimibe. Intestinal effective permeability of digoxin in the presence of atorvastatin (3 and 100 µM), ezetimibe (10 and 100 µM) was significantly increased (p<0.05). Both drugs  inhibited P-gp activity in vitro and in situ. Atorvastatin and ezetimibe down-regulated the expression of P-gp in vitro. 

Video Clip of Methodology:

Single-pass intestinal permeability: 17 min 26 sec

 
The Last Things, Ou Les Vérités Dernières, Une Variation Sur Le Genre Traditionnel D’ Ars Moriendi
Authors: Phélippeau Marie-Claire
Published: November 2016

L’article a pour but de décrire l’œuvre de More : The Last Things, à l’occasion de sa première traduction en français. Il analyse les différentes caractéristiques du traité et en rattache la filiation au Moyen Age, par certains aspects, et à la Renaissance par certains autres. L’originalité de More est mise en évidence : elle réside à la fois dans la forte cohérence du discours, dans son éloquence avérée, ainsi que dans le caractère pastoral de l’œuvre.
More’s and Elyot’s Perspectives and their Classical Antecedents
Authors: Norland Howard B.
Published: November 2016

The nature of the personal relationship between More and Elyot remains something of a mystery, but their political perspectives reflect the similarities and differences in their public experience and sources of inspiration. More’s Utopia (1516) grew out of his interaction with European scholars and political leaders; composed in Latin for an international audience, the work moves from particular social problems in England to a radical alternative conceptualized in detail. The Governor (1531), written in English and addressed to the aristocracy, resulted from Elyot’s years as a middle-level public administrator. Practical rather than imaginative, Elyot finds the principles of governance mainly in Aristotle and Cicero; on the other hand, More, inspired primarily by Plato and Lucian, creates a social construct against which contemporary societies should be measured. Each reflecting his own perspective, Elyot emphasizes individual, personal virtues while More focuses on social values. The conservative Elyot endorses the hierarchal society governed by a monarch through his governors in contrast with More, who represents an elective meritocracy.
Non sum Oedipus, sed Morus
Authors: Mitjans Frank
Published: November 2016

Frank Mitjans is an architect who has worked in London since 1976. He was introduced to the significance of the figure of St. Thomas More by Andrés Vázquez de Prada (1923-2005), author of the biography, Sir Tomás Moro, Lord Canciller de Inglaterra (Madrid, 1962). In 1977 Vázquez de Prada invited Mitjans to visit with him the Thomas More Exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery, which stimulated his interest in representations of More, his family and his friends. Since August 2002 he has given many presentations and talks on the topography of More’s London to groups of students and other interested people in Britain, Ireland, and Sweden.

Frank Mitjans, architecte qui travaille à Londres depuis 1976, fut initié au personnage de Saint Thomas More par Andrés Vázquez de Prada (1923-2003), auteur de la biographie Sir Tomás Moro, Lord Canciller de Inglaterra (Madrid, 1962). En 1977 Vázquez de Prada l’invita à l’accompagner dans sa visite de l’exposition Thomas More à la National Portrait Gallery, évènement qui aiguisa son intérêt pour les représentations de More, de sa famille et de ses amis. Depuis août 2002 il a régulièrement fait des présentations et des exposés à des groupes d’étudiants et d’autres en Grande-Bretagne, Irlande et Suède au sujet de la topographie du Londres de Thomas More.

The recent exhibitions of the works of Holbein in London and Basel (2006-2007), and scholarly publications such as Holbein and England (2004), have rekindled interest in the Portrait of Thomas More and his Family, and in the late sixteenth-century versions of Holbein’s presumed lost original. The present paper analyses the differences between the sixteenth-century versions and Holbein’s 1527 composition sketch, and concludes that the sketch is a more reliable witness to Holbein’s lost painting than the later versions, as well as the only authentic witness to More’s intentions; though anything we learn from the drawing must be checked against what we know from More’s letters and writings and other biographical data. From the later versions, however, and in particular from the references to Seneca on them, we can learn about those who commissioned them and England’s peculiar historical circumstances.
Paysage et corps dans l’Utopie de Thomas More : étude à partir des textes et des gravures des premières éditions et traductions
Authors: Pierrot Claire
Published: November 2016

Résumé

Comment représenter des corps et un paysage utopiques ? Thomas More répond à cette question en proposant un paysage total, résultat du travail de l’homme sur la nature, objet chorographique par excellence, puisque l’auteur y privilégie lîle, la ville et le jardin. Loin de se réifier, le paysage utopique garde une certaine opacité par son ambivalence entre réalité et imaginaire, par les jeux de points de vue parfois contradictoires, aussi présents dans le texte et ses liminaires que dans les gravures.
Gas dynamic trap: experimental results and future prospects
Authors: Ivanov A A , Prikhodko V V
Published: November 2016

The gas dynamic trap (GDT) is a version of a magnetic mirror with a long mirror-to-mirror distance far exceeding the effective mean free path of ion scattering into the loss cone, with a large mirror ratio (R ∼ 100; R = B
max/B
min is the ratio of magnetic field inductions at the mirror and at the trap center) and with axial symmetry. Under these conditions, in contrast to a conventional magnetic mirror, the plasma confined in a GDT is isotropic and Maxwellian. The plasma loss rate through the ends is governed by a set of simple gas dynamic equations; hence, the name of the device. The plasma lifetime in a GDT is on the order of LR/V
Ti, where L is the mirror-to-mirror distance, and V
Ti is the ion thermal velocity. Thus, increasing both the length of the device and the mirror ratio can, in principle, make the plasma lifetime sufficient for fusion applications. This paper discusses plasma confinement and heating results from the Novosibirsk GDT facility and examines prospects for using GDTs to develop a high-flux volumetric neutron source for fusion material testing and for driving subcritical fission reactors.
Meson production processes in electron–positron collisions and tau-lepton decays within the extended Nambu – Jona-Lasinio model
Authors: Volkov M K , Arbuzov A B
Published: November 2016

The extended Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model is briefly described and various ways to apply it are demonstrated. Theoretical approaches to the low-energy meson production processes in colliding electron–positron beams and tau-lepton decays are reviewed. The processes considered occur via intermediate scalar, vector, and axial-vector mesons in the ground state and in the first radially excited state. The model uses the concept of spontaneous chiral symmetry breaking to describe such states. Experimental and theoretical comparisons with other phenomenological strong interaction models are presented.
Cerebellar Intermittent Theta-Burst Stimulation and Motor Control Training in Individuals with Cervical Dystonia
Authors: Bradnam Lynley , McDonnell Michelle , Ridding Michael
Published: November 2016

Background: There is emerging evidence that cervical dystonia is a neural network disorder with the cerebellum as a key node. The cerebellum may provide a target for neuromodulation as a therapeutic intervention in cervical dystonia. Objective: This study aimed to assess effects of intermittent theta-burst stimulation of the cerebellum on dystonia symptoms, quality of life, hand motor dexterity and cortical neurophysiology using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Methods: Sixteen participants with cervical dystonia were randomised into real or sham stimulation groups. Cerebellar neuromodulation was combined with motor training for the neck and an implicit learning task. The intervention was delivered over 10 working days. Outcome measures included dystonia severity and pain, quality of life, hand dexterity, and motor-evoked potentials and cortical silent periods recorded from upper trapezius muscles. Assessments were taken at baseline and after 5 and 10 days, with quality of life also measured 4 and 12 weeks later. Results: Intermittent theta-burst stimulation improved dystonia severity (Day 5, −5.44 points; p = 0.012; Day 10, −4.6 points; p = 0.025), however, effect sizes were small. Quality of life also improved (Day 5, −10.6 points, p = 0.012; Day 10, −8.6 points, p = 0.036; Week 4, −12.5 points, p = 0.036; Week 12, −12.4 points, p = 0.025), with medium or large effect sizes. There was a reduction in time to complete the pegboard task pre to post intervention (both p < 0.008). Cortical neurophysiology was unchanged by cerebellar neuromodulation. Conclusion: Intermittent theta-burst stimulation of the cerebellum may improve cervical dystonia symptoms, upper limb motor control and quality of life. The mechanism likely involves promoting neuroplasticity in the cerebellum although the neurophysiology remains to be elucidated. Cerebellar neuromodulation may have potential as a novel treatment intervention for cervical dystonia, although larger confirmatory studies are required.
On the Existence and Uniqueness of Solutions for Local Fractional Differential Equations
Authors: Jafari Hossein , Jassim Hassan , Al Qurashi Maysaa , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: November 2016

In this manuscript, we prove the existence and uniqueness of solutions for local fractional differential equations (LFDEs) with local fractional derivative operators (LFDOs). By using the contracting mapping theorem (CMT) and increasing and decreasing theorem (IDT), existence and uniqueness results are obtained. Some examples are presented to illustrate the validity of our results.
Stability Analysis of Quantum-Dot Spin-VCSELs
Authors: Li Nianqiang , Alexandropoulos Dimitris , Susanto Hadi , Henning Ian , Adams Michael
Published: November 2016

Spin-polarized vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (spin-VCSELs) and vertical external-cavity surface-emitting lasers (spin-VECSELs) are of interest since their output polarization can be manipulated by spin-selective pumping, either optical or electrical. These devices, using quantum dot (QD) material for the active region, have shown instability (periodic oscillations) and polarization switching in previous theoretical simulations based on a rate equation model. It has been recognized that the polarization switching occurs between two possible sets of solutions, termed here in-phase and out-of-phase. The present contribution seeks to give enhanced understanding of these behaviors by applying a stability analysis to the system of equations used for such simulations. The results indicate that the choice of in-phase and out-of-phase solutions that appear in a time-dependent simulation is determined by the condition that the corresponding steady-state solutions are stable against small perturbations. The stability analysis is shown to be a valuable theoretical tool for future study of spin-V(E)SELs in the context of understanding and guiding future experimental research.
CVD-Grown CNTs on Basalt Fiber Surfaces for Multifunctional Composite Interphases
Authors: Förster Theresa , Hao Bin , Mäder Edith , Simon Frank , Wölfel Enrico , Ma Peng-Cheng
Published: November 2016

Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is used as a method for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNT) on substrates, most commonly pre-treated by a metal-catalyst. In this work, the capability of basalt fiber surfaces was investigated in order to stimulate catalyst-free growth of carbon nanotubes. We have carried out CVD experiments on unsized, sized, and NaOH-treated basalt fibers modified by growth temperature and a process gas mixture. Subsequently, we investigated the fiber surfaces by SEM, AFM, XPS and carried out single fiber tensile tests. Growth temperatures of 700 °C as well as 800 °C may induce CNT growth, but depending on the basalt fiber surface, the growth process was differently affected. The XPS results suggest surficial iron is not crucial for the CNT growth. We demonstrate that the formation of a corrosion shell is able to support CNT networks. However, our investigations do not expose distinctively the mechanisms by which unsized basalt fibers sometimes induce vertically aligned CNT carpets, isotropically arranged CNTs or no CNT growth. Considering data from the literature and our AFM results, it is assumed that the nano-roughness of surfaces could be a critical parameter for CNT growth. These findings will motivate the design of future experiments to discover the role of surface roughness as well as surface defects on the formation of hierarchical interphases.
Multiwavelength Monitoring of the Gamma-Bright Blazar Mkn 421
Authors: Troitskaya Yulia , Larionov Valeri , Hagen-Thorn Vladimir , Morozova Daria , Blinov Dmitry , Borman George , Grishina Tatiana , Efimova Natalia , Kopatskaya Evgenia , Larionova Liudmila , Larionova Elena , Troitsky Ivan , Mokrushina Anna
Published: November 2016

We present the results of photo-polarimetric monitoring observations of the blazar Markarian 421 carried out with different telescopes (the 0.4 m telescopes of St. Petersburg State University and the Pulkovo Observatory, the 0.7 m telescope of the Crimean Astrophysical Observatory) during 2008–2015. We analyse the optical data as well as gamma-ray ligh t curves obtained with the Fermi Large Area Telescope. The multiwavelength flux variations are discussed.
Is Green Exercise for All? A Descriptive Study of Green Exercise Habits and Promoting Factors in Adult Norwegians
Authors: Calogiuri Giovanna , Patil Grete , Aamodt Geir
Published: November 2016

Background: Physical activity (PA) in natural environments, known as green exercise (GE), can provide health benefits above and beyond PA in other environments, but little is known about the extent to which GE is an accessible form of weekly PA across different social groups. This study aims to examine the “GE phenomenon” in Norway, and evaluate possible differences in GE habits and perceived factors that promote GE across sub-groups of this population. Methods: 2168 adults from all over Norway reported weekly GE and other forms of PA, specific forms of GE, and perceived factors that promote GE. Data were examined in the overall sample and in relation with the respondents’ PA status and sociodemographic characteristics. Results: GE, especially “walking in the forest” and “activities by/on the sea”, was the most popular form of weekly PA, even among those with low PA levels. GE was fairly represented across all social groups, and especially among the elderly, those who live with spouse/partner and those who live in the west regions of Norway, while no associations were found in relation to sex, centrality, education level or household income. “Time flexibility” and “PA-supportive places” were generally perceived as the most important factors that promote GE across all social groups. “Accessibility to nature” was generally perceived relatively little important, though a gradient was observed in relation to age, education level and household income. Conclusions: GE is an important source of weekly PA and health among adult Norwegians, especially in sub-groups of interest for public health such as the elderly, those with lower socio-economic status and those who live in non-urban areas. More should be done to understand and address the inequities relative to the perceived accessibility to nature.
Groundwater Vulnerability Assessment of the Pingtung Plain in Southern Taiwan
Authors: Liang Ching-Ping , Jang Cheng-Shin , Liang Cheng-Wei , Chen Jui-Sheng
Published: November 2016

In the Pingtung Plain of southern Taiwan, elevated levels of NO3−-N in groundwater have been reported. Therefore, efforts for assessing groundwater vulnerability are required as part of the critical steps to prevent and control groundwater pollution. This study makes a groundwater vulnerability assessment for the Pingtung Plain using an improved overlay and index-based DRASTIC model. The improvement of the DRASTIC model is achieved by reassigning the weighting coefficients of the factors in this model with the help of a discriminant analysis statistical method. The analytical results obtained from the improved DRASTIC model provide a reliable prediction for use in groundwater vulnerability assessment to nitrate pollution and can correctly identify the groundwater protection zones in the Pingtung Plain. Moreover, the results of the sensitivity analysis conducted for the seven parameters in the improved DRASTIC model demonstrate that the aquifer media (A) is the most sensitive factor when the nitrate-N concentration is below 2.5 mg/L. For the cases where the nitrate-N concentration is above 2.5 mg/L, the aquifer media (A) and net recharge (R) are the two most important factors.
Predictors of Urinary 3-Phenoxybenzoic Acid Levels in 50 North Carolina Adults
Authors: Morgan Marsha , Jones Paul , Sobus Jon , Boyd Barr Dana
Published: November 2016

Limited data are available on the non-chemical stressors that impact adult exposures to pyrethroid insecticides based on urinary biomonitoring. The urinary metabolite, 3-phenoxybenzoic acid (3-PBA), is commonly used to assess human exposure to a number of pyrethroids. In a further analysis of published study data, we quantified urinary 3-PBA levels of 50 adults over a single, 24-h sampling period and examined the associations between the biomarker measurements and selected non-chemical stressors (demographic, lifestyle, and dietary factors). A convenience sample of 50 adults was recruited in North Carolina in 2009–2011. Participants collected individual urine voids (up to 11) and filled out activity, food, and pesticide use diaries over a 24-h sampling period. Urine voids (n = 326) were analyzed for 3-PBA concentrations using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. 3-PBA was detected in 98% of the 24-h composited urine samples. The geometric mean urinary 3-PBA level was 1.68 ng/mL in adults. Time spent outside (p = 0.0006) was a highly significant predictor of natural log-transformed (ln) urinary 3-PBA levels, while consumption of coffee (p = 0.007) and breads (p = 0.019) and ln creatinine levels (p = 0.037) were significant predictors of urinary 3-PBA levels. In conclusion, we identified specific factors that substantially increased adult exposures to pyrethroids in their everyday environments.
A Melting Curve-Based Multiplex RT-qPCR Assay for Simultaneous Detection of Four Human Coronaviruses
Authors: Wan Zhenzhou , Zhang Ya’nan , He Zhixiang , Liu Jia , Lan Ke , Hu Yihong , Zhang Chiyu
Published: November 2016

Human coronaviruses HCoV-OC43, HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63 and HCoV-HKU1 are common respiratory viruses associated with acute respiratory infection. They have a global distribution. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of HCoV infection is important for the management and treatment of hospitalized patients with HCoV infection. Here, we developed a melting curve-based multiplex RT-qPCR assay for simultaneous detection of the four HCoVs. In the assay, SYTO 9 was used to replace SYBR Green I as the fluorescent dye, and GC-modified primers were designed to improve the melting temperature (Tm) of the specific amplicon. The four HCoVs were clearly distinguished by characteristic melting peaks in melting curve analysis. The detection sensitivity of the assay was 3 × 102 copies for HCoV-OC43, and 3 × 101 copies for HCoV-NL63, HCoV-229E and HCoV-HKU1 per 30 μL reaction. Clinical evaluation and sequencing confirmation demonstrated that the assay was specific and reliable. The assay represents a sensitive and reliable method for diagnosis of HCoV infection in clinical samples.
Importance of Heat and Pressure for Solubilization of Recombinant Spider Silk Proteins in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Jones Justin , Harris Thomas , Oliveira Paula , Bell Brianne , Alhabib Abdulrahman , Lewis Randolph
Published: November 2016

The production of recombinant spider silk proteins continues to be a key area of interest for a number of research groups. Several key obstacles exist in their production as well as in their formulation into useable products. The original reported method to solubilize recombinant spider silk proteins (rSSp) in an aqueous solution involved using microwaves to quickly generate heat and pressure inside of a sealed vial containing rSSp and water. Fibers produced from this system are remarkable in their mechanical ability and demonstrate the ability to be stretched and recover 100 times. The microwave method dissolves the rSSPs with dissolution time increasing with higher molecular weight constructs, increasing concentration of rSSPs, protein type, and salt concentration. It has proven successful in solvating a number of different rSSPs including native-like sequences (MaSp1, MaSp2, piriform, and aggregate) as well as chimeric sequences (FlAS) in varied concentrations that have been spun into fibers and formed into films, foams, sponges, gels, coatings, macro and micro spheres and adhesives. The system is effective but inherently unpredictable and difficult to control. Provided that the materials that can be generated from this method of dissolution are impressive, an alternative means of applying heat and pressure that is controllable and predictable has been developed. Results indicate that there are combinations of heat and pressure (135 °C and 140 psi) that result in maximal dissolution without degrading the recombinant MaSp2 protein tested, and that heat and pressure are the key elements to the method of dissolution.
Pro-Tumoral Inflammatory Myeloid Cells as Emerging Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Szebeni Gabor , Vizler Csaba , Nagy Lajos , Kitajka Klara , Puskas Laszlo
Published: November 2016

Since the observation of Virchow, it has long been known that the tumor microenvironment constitutes the soil for the infiltration of inflammatory cells and for the release of inflammatory mediators. Under certain circumstances, inflammation remains unresolved and promotes cancer development. Here, we review some of these indisputable experimental and clinical evidences of cancer related smouldering inflammation. The most common myeloid infiltrate in solid tumors is composed of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). These cells promote tumor growth by several mechanisms, including their inherent immunosuppressive activity, promotion of neoangiogenesis, mediation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and alteration of cellular metabolism. The pro-tumoral functions of TAMs and MDSCs are further enhanced by their cross-talk offering a myriad of potential anti-cancer therapeutic targets. We highlight these main pro-tumoral mechanisms of myeloid cells and give a general overview of their phenotypical and functional diversity, offering examples of possible therapeutic targets. Pharmacological targeting of inflammatory cells and molecular mediators may result in therapies improving patient condition and prognosis. Here, we review experimental and clinical findings on cancer-related inflammation with a major focus on creating an inventory of current small molecule-based therapeutic interventions targeting cancer-related inflammatory cells: TAMs and MDSCs.
Case Formulation in Young People with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and First-Episode Psychosis
Authors: Halpin Emma , Kugathasan Vanessa , Hulbert Carol , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario , Bendall Sarah
Published: November 2016

Background: Evidence based treatment interventions for young people with first-episode psychosis (FEP) and trauma histories is lacking. Although case formulation (CF) has been widely regarded in cognitive behavioural therapy manuals as beneficial, there is limited empirical research examining how clients and therapists experience the process. Aim: This study aimed to explore young people’s reactions to CF in treatment for PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) and FEP. Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with three participants (aged 19–20) with FEP and PTSD and their therapists, after they had completed a trauma-focused treatment program with a CF component. Transcripts were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach and themes were derived. Results: Two themes related to participants’ experiences were identified from the analysis: (1) Developing Insight; (2) A challenging experience; and two themes from the therapists: (1) Doing the case formulation; (2) Value of case formulation. Participants and therapists reported benefits in making connections between current symptoms and past trauma. Participants viewed the process as challenging. Conclusion: Results suggest a potential discrepancy between the experience of the case formulation process for clients and therapists.
Fabrication of Al/Mg/Al Composites via Accumulative Roll Bonding and Their Mechanical Properties
Authors: Nie Jinfeng , Liu Mingxing , Wang Fang , Zhao Yonghao , Li Yusheng , Cao Yang , Zhu Yuntian
Published: November 2016

Al(1060)/Mg(AZ31)/Al(1060) multilayered composite was successfully produced using an accumulative roll bonding (ARB) process for up to four cycles at an elevated temperature (400 °C). The microstructure evolution of the composites and the bonding characteristics at the interfaces between Al and Mg layers with increasing ARB cycles were characterized through optical microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was found that the grains of Al and Mg layers were significantly refined and Al3Mg2 and Al12 Mg17 intermetallic compound layers formed at the Al/Mg bonding interfaces. The strength increased gradually and the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) reached a maximum value of about 240 MPa at the third pass. Furthermore, the strengthening mechanism of the composite was analyzed based on the fracture morphologies.
Alkynyl-Containing Peptides of Marine Origin: A Review
Authors: Chai Qiu-Ye , Yang Zhen , Lin Hou-Wen , Han Bing-Nan
Published: November 2016

Since the 1990s, a number of terminal alkynyl residue-containing cyclic/acyclic peptides have been identified from marine organisms, especially cyanobacteria and marine mollusks. This review has presented 66 peptides, which covers over 90% marine peptides with terminal alkynyl fatty acyl units. In fact, more than 90% of these peptides described in the literature are of cyanobacterial origin. Interestingly, all the linear peptides featured with terminal alkyne were solely discovered from marine cyanobacteria. The objective of this article is to provide an overview on the types, structural characterization of these unusual terminal alkynyl fatty acyl units, as well as the sources and biological functions of their composed peptides. Many of these peptides have a variety of biological activities, including antitumor, antibacterial, antimalarial, etc. Further, we have also discussed the evident biosynthetic origin responsible for formation of terminal alkynes of natural PKS (polyketide synthase)/NRPS (nonribosome peptide synthetase) hybrids.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Methyl Salicylate Derivatives Bearing Piperazine Moiety
Authors: Li Jingfen , Yin Yong , Wang Lisheng , Liang Pengyun , Li Menghua , Liu Xu , Wu Lichuan , Yang Hua
Published: November 2016

In this study, a new series of 16 methyl salicylate derivatives bearing a piperazine moiety were synthesized and characterized. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activities of target compounds were investigated against xylol-induced ear edema and carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice. The results showed that all synthesized compounds exhibited potent anti-inflammatory activities. Especially, the anti-inflammatory activities of compounds M15 and M16 were higher than that of aspirin and even equal to that of indomethacin at the same dose. In addition, the in vitro cytotoxicity activities and anti-inflammatory activities of four target compounds were performed in RAW264.7 macrophages, and compound M16 was found to significantly inhibit the release of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, compound M16 was found to attenuate LPS induced cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 up-regulation. The current preliminary study may provide information for the development of new and safe anti-inflammatory agents.
AutoDock-GIST: Incorporating Thermodynamics of Active-Site Water into Scoring Function for Accurate Protein-Ligand Docking
Authors: Uehara Shota , Tanaka Shigenori
Published: November 2016

Water plays a significant role in the binding process between protein and ligand. However, the thermodynamics of water molecules are often underestimated, or even ignored, in protein-ligand docking. Usually, the free energies of active-site water molecules are substantially different from those of waters in the bulk region. The binding of a ligand to a protein causes a displacement of these waters from an active site to bulk, and this displacement process substantially contributes to the free energy change of protein-ligand binding. The free energy of active-site water molecules can be calculated by grid inhomogeneous solvation theory (GIST), using molecular dynamics (MD) and the trajectory of a target protein and water molecules. Here, we show a case study of the combination of GIST and a docking program and discuss the effectiveness of the displacing gain of unfavorable water in protein-ligand docking. We combined the GIST-based desolvation function with the scoring function of AutoDock4, which is called AutoDock-GIST. The proposed scoring function was assessed employing 51 ligands of coagulation factor Xa (FXa), and results showed that both scoring accuracy and docking success rate were improved. We also evaluated virtual screening performance of AutoDock-GIST using FXa ligands in the directory of useful decoys-enhanced (DUD-E), thus finding that the displacing gain of unfavorable water is effective for a successful docking campaign.
Chemical Constituents of Phaius mishmensis
Authors: Jao Chen-Wei , Hung Tzu-Heng , Chang Chi-Fen , Chuang Ta-Hsien
Published: November 2016

The partitioned n-hexane, CHCl3, and EtOAc extracts from the crude MeOH extract of Phaius mishmensis showed considerable cytotoxicities against the human breast carcinoma (MCF-7), lung carcinoma (NCI-H460), and central nervous system carcinoma (SF-268) cell lines. Four new compounds, phaindole (1), (7′R,8′R)-phaithrene (2), methyl 3-hydroxy-4,5-dimethoxypropiophenone (3), and methyl hematinate (4), as well as 44 known compounds were isolated from the MeOH extract of Phaius mishmensis. The structures of the compounds were determined using spectroscopic methods.
The Draft Genome Sequence of Actinokineospora bangkokensis 44EHWT Reveals the Biosynthetic Pathway of the Antifungal Thailandin Compounds with Unusual Butylmalonyl-CoA Extender Units
Authors: Greule Anja , Intra Bungonsiri , Flemming Stephan , Rommel Marcel , Panbangred Watanalai , Bechthold Andreas
Published: November 2016

We report the draft genome sequence of Actinokineospora bangkokensis 44EHWT, the producer of the antifungal polyene compounds, thailandins A and B. The sequence contains 7.45 Mb, 74.1% GC content and 35 putative gene clusters for the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. There are three gene clusters encoding large polyketide synthases of type I. Annotation of the ORF functions and targeted gene disruption enabled us to identify the cluster for thailandin biosynthesis. We propose a plausible biosynthetic pathway for thailandin, where the unusual butylmalonyl-CoA extender unit is incorporated and results in an untypical side chain.
Nutrition, One-Carbon Metabolism and Neural Tube Defects: A Review
Authors: Li Kelei , Wahlqvist Mark , Li Duo
Published: November 2016

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a group of severe congenital malformations, induced by the combined effects of genes and the environment. The most valuable finding so far has been the protective effect of folic acid supplementation against NTDs. However, many women do not take folic acid supplements until they are pregnant, which is too late to prevent NTDs effectively. Long-term intake of folic acid–fortified food is a good choice to solve this problem, and mandatory folic acid fortification should be further promoted, especially in Europe, Asia and Africa. Vitamin B2, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, choline, betaine and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can also reduce the NTD risk by interacting with the one-carbon metabolism pathway. This suggest that multivitamin B combined with choline, betaine and n-3 PUFAs supplementation may have a better protective effect against NTDs than folic acid alone. Genetic polymorphisms involved in one-carbon metabolism are associated with NTD risk, and gene screening for women of childbearing age prior to pregnancy may help prevent NTDs induced by the risk allele. In addition, the consumption of alcohol, tea and coffee, and low intakes of fruit and vegetable are also associated with the increased risk of NTDs, and should be avoided by women of childbearing age.
Chemical Oxidative Polymerization of 2-Aminothiazole in Aqueous Solution: Synthesis, Characterization and Kinetics Study
Authors: Zou Hua , Wang Lu , Wang Xia , Lv Pengfei , Liao Yaozu
Published: November 2016

The chemical oxidative polymerization of 2-aminothiazole (AT) was studied in aqueous solution using copper chloride (CuCl2) as an oxidant. The effect of varying the reaction temperature, reaction time and oxidant/monomer molar ratio on the polymer yield was investigated. The resulting poly(2-aminothiazole)s (PATs) were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, UV-vis, gel permeation chromatography, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and four-point probe electrical conductivity measurements. Compared with a previous study, PATs with higher yield (81%) and better thermal stability could be synthesized. The chemical oxidative polymerization kinetics of AT were studied for the first time. The orders of the polymerization reaction with respect to monomer concentration and oxidant concentration were found to be 1.14 and 0.97, respectively, and the apparent activation energy of the polymerization reaction was determined to be 21.57 kJ/mol.
Climate-Induced Extreme Hydrologic Events in the Arctic
Authors: Sakai Toru , Matsunaga Tsuneo , Maksyutov Shamil , Gotovtsev Semen , Gagarin Leonid , Hiyama Tetsuya , Yamaguchi Yasushi
Published: November 2016

The objectives were (i) to evaluate the relationship between recent climate change and extreme hydrological events and (ii) to characterize the behavior of hydrological events along the Alazeya River. The warming rate of air temperature observed at the meteorological station in Chersky was 0.0472 °C·year−1, and an extraordinary increase in air temperatures was observed in 2007. However, data from meteorological stations are somewhat limited in sparsely populated regions. Therefore, this study employed historical remote sensing data for supplementary information. The time-series analysis of the area-averaged Global Precipitation Climatology Project (GPCP) precipitation showed a positive trend because warming leads to an increase in the water vapor content in the atmosphere. In particular, heavy precipitation of 459 ± 113 mm was observed in 2006. On the other hand, the second-highest summer National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Advanced Very High Resolution radiometer (AVHRR) brightness temperature (BT) was observed in 2007 when the highest air temperature was observed in Chersky, and the anomaly from normal revealed that the summer AVHRR BTs showed mostly positive values. Conversely, riverbank, lakeshore and seashore areas were much cooler due to the formation, expansion and drainage of lakes and/or the increase in water level by heavy precipitation and melting of frozen ground. The large lake drainage resulted in a flood. Although the flooding was triggered by the thermal erosion along the riverbanks and lakeshores—itself induced by the heat wave in 2007—the increase in soil water content due to the heavy precipitation in 2006 appeared to contribute the magnitude of flood. The flood was characterized by the low streamflow velocity because the Kolyma Lowlands had a very gentle gradient. Therefore, the flood continued for a long time over large areas. Information based on remote sensing data gave basic insights for understanding the mechanism and behavior of climate-induced extreme hydrologic events.
Multi-Target Tracking Using an Improved Gaussian Mixture CPHD Filter
Authors: Si Weijian , Wang Liwei , Qu Zhiyu
Published: November 2016

The cardinalized probability hypothesis density (CPHD) filter is an alternative approximation to the full multi-target Bayesian filter for tracking multiple targets. However, although the joint propagation of the posterior intensity and cardinality distribution in its recursion allows more reliable estimates of the target number than the PHD filter, the CPHD filter suffers from the spooky effect where there exists arbitrary PHD mass shifting in the presence of missed detections. To address this issue in the Gaussian mixture (GM) implementation of the CPHD filter, this paper presents an improved GM-CPHD filter, which incorporates a weight redistribution scheme into the filtering process to modify the updated weights of the Gaussian components when missed detections occur. In addition, an efficient gating strategy that can adaptively adjust the gate sizes according to the number of missed detections of each Gaussian component is also presented to further improve the computational efficiency of the proposed filter. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method offers favorable performance in terms of both estimation accuracy and robustness to clutter and detection uncertainty over the existing methods.