bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Easy Approach to Control β-Phase Formation in PFO Films for Optimized Emission Properties
Authors: Zhang Qi , Chi Lang , Hai Gang , Fang Yueting , Li Xiangchun , Xia Ruidong , Huang Wei , Gu Erdan
Published: February 2017

We demonstrate a novel approach to control β-phase content generated in poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) (PFO) films. A very small amount of paraffin oil was used as the additive to the PFO solution in toluene. The β-phase fraction in the spin-coated PFO films can be modified from 0% to 20% simply by changing the volume percentage of paraffin oil in the mixed solution. Organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) and amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) study confirmed low β-phase fraction promise better OLEDs device, while high β-phase fraction benefits ASE performance.
Special Issue: Ribosome-Inactivating Proteins—Commemorative Issue in Honor of Professor Fiorenzo Stirpe
Authors: Van Damme Els
Published: February 2017

The family of ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs) groups all enzymes (EC.3.2.2.22) with a so-called RIP domain which comprises N-glycosidase activity and enables these proteins to catalytically inactivate ribosomes.[...]
An Efficient Synthesis of Novel Bioactive Thiazolyl-Phthalazinediones under Ultrasound Irradiation
Authors: Elsharabasy Fatma , Gomha Sobhi , Farghaly Thoraya , Elzahabi Heba
Published: February 2017

Novel 2-thiazolylphthalazine derivatives were efficiently synthesized under ultrasound irradiation, resulting in high yields and short reaction times after optimization of the reaction conditions. All prepared compounds were fully characterized using spectroscopic methods. They were screened for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as for antifungal activity. The antimicrobial activity profile of the tested compounds showed some promising results. The potent activity of compounds 4d, 7b (117% zone inhibition) and 7c (105% zone inhibition) against Salmonella sp., exceeding that of the reference drug Gentamycin is particularly noteworthy. In general, the newly synthesized thiazolylphthalazine derivatives showed higher antimicrobial activity against the tested Gram-negative bacteria than against Gram-positive bacteria and fungi.
Neoflavonoids as Inhibitors of HIV-1 Replication by Targeting the Tat and NF-κB Pathways
Authors: Olmedo Dionisio , López-Pérez José , Del Olmo Esther , Bedoya Luis , Sancho Rocío , Alcamí José , Muñoz Eduardo , Feliciano Arturo , Gupta Mahabir
Published: February 2017

Twenty-eight neoflavonoids have been prepared and evaluated in vitro against HIV-1. Antiviral activity was assessed on MT-2 cells infected with viral clones carrying the luciferase reporter gene. Inhibition of HIV transcription and Tat function were tested on cells stably transfected with the HIV-LTR and Tat protein. Seven 4-phenylchromen-2-one derivatives showed HIV transcriptional inhibitory activity but only the phenylchrome-2-one 10 inhibited NF-κB and displayed anti-Tat activity simultaneously. Compounds 10, 14, and 25, inhibited HIV replication in both targets at concentrations <25 μM. The assays of these synthetic 4-phenylchromen-2-ones may aid in the investigation of some aspects of the anti-HIV activity of such compounds and could serve as a scaffold for designing better anti-HIV compounds, which may lead to a potential anti-HIV therapeutic drug.
Design of Drug Delivery Systems Containing Artemisinin and Its Derivatives
Authors: Aderibigbe Blessing
Published: February 2017

Artemisinin and its derivatives have been reported to be experimentally effective for the treatment of highly aggressive cancers without developing drug resistance, they are useful for the treatment of malaria, other protozoal infections and they exhibit antiviral activity. However, they are limited pharmacologically by their poor bioavailability, short half-life in vivo, poor water solubility and long term usage results in toxicity. They are also expensive for the treatment of malaria when compared to other antimalarials. In order to enhance their therapeutic efficacy, they are incorporated onto different drug delivery systems, thus yielding improved biological outcomes. This review article is focused on the currently synthesized derivatives of artemisinin and different delivery systems used for the incorporation of artemisinin and its derivatives.
Transcriptomic Analysis of Leaf in Tree Peony Reveals Differentially Expressed Pigments Genes
Authors: Luo Jianrang , Shi Qianqian , Niu Lixin , Zhang Yanlong
Published: February 2017

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews) is an important traditional flower in China. Besides its beautiful flower, the leaf of tree peony has also good ornamental value owing to its leaf color change in spring. So far, the molecular mechanism of leaf color change in tree peony is unclear. In this study, the pigment level and transcriptome of three different color stages of tree peony leaf were analyzed. The purplish red leaf was rich in anthocyanin, while yellowish green leaf was rich in chlorophyll and carotenoid. Transcriptome analysis revealed that 4302 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were upregulated, and 4225 were downregulated in the purplish red leaf vs. yellowish green leaf. Among these DEGs, eight genes were predicted to participate in anthocyanin biosynthesis, eight genes were predicted involved in porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, and 10 genes were predicted to participate in carotenoid metabolism. In addition, 27 MYBs, 20 bHLHs, 36 WD40 genes were also identified from DEGs. Anthocyanidin synthase (ANS) is the key gene that controls the anthocyanin level in tree peony leaf. Protochlorophyllide oxido-reductase (POR) is the key gene which regulated the chlorophyll content in tree peony leaf.
Synthesis and Structural Evaluation of Organo-Ruthenium Complexes with β-Diketonates
Authors: Uršič Matija , Lipec Tanja , Meden Anton , Turel Iztok
Published: February 2017

Four novel ruthenium organometallic complexes: [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-butanedione)Cl] (1), [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-bromophenyl)-1,3-butanedione)pta]PF6 (2), [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-iodophenyl)-1,3-butanedione)Cl] (3) and [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-iodophenyl)-1,3-butanedione)pta]PF6 (4) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, infrared (IR), UV-Vis, NMR and mass spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The crystal structures and spectroscopic data were compared to the previously published complexes [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-chloro-phenyl)-1,3-butanedione)Cl] (5) and [(η6-p-cymene)Ru(4,4,4-trifluoro-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,3-butanedione)pta]PF6 (6). The pairs of complexes 1 and 3 as well as 2 and 4 are isostructural, with the former crystallizing in triclinic P-1 and the latter in monoclinic P21/c. The ruthenium(II) ion is found in a pseudo-octahedral “piano-stool” geometry in all compounds. Bond lengths and angles are consistent with other complexes of this type. Complexes 2 and 4 exhibit some moderate dynamic disorder. The lack of hydrogen bonding and major π-π interactions means that most of intramolecular interactions are fairly weak and involve halogen atoms present. This was further confirmed by 1H-NMR spectra, where a significant difference is observed only on the ligand near the halogen atom, following an expected trend. The combined data show that the difference in any activity depends substantially on the type of the ligand′s substituted halogen atom.
Oxidation of 5-Chloromethylfurfural (CMF) to 2,5-Diformylfuran (DFF)
Authors: Vicente Ana , Coelho Jaime , Simeonov Svilen , Lazarova Hristina , Popova Margarita , Afonso Carlos
Published: February 2017

2,5-Diformylfuran (DFF) is an important biorenewable building block, namely for the manufacture of new polymers that may replace existing materials derived from limited fossil fuel resources. The current reported methods for the preparation of DFF are mainly derived from the oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) and, to a lesser extent, directly from fructose. 5-Chloromethylfurfural (CMF) has been considered an alternative to HMF as an intermediate building block due to its advantages regarding stability, polarity, and availability from glucose and cellulose. The only reported method for the transformation of CMF to DFF is restricted to the use of DMSO as the solvent and oxidant. We envisioned that the transformation could be performed using more attractive conditions. To that end, we explored the oxidation of CMF to DFF by screening several oxidants such as H2O2, oxone, and pyridine N-oxide (PNO); different heating methods, namely thermal and microwave irradiation (MWI); and also flow conditions. The combination of PNO (4 equiv.) and Cu(OTf)2 (0.5 equiv.) in acetonitrile was identified as the best system, which lead to the formation of DFF in 54% yield under MWI for 5 min at 160 °C. Consequently, a range of different heterogeneous copper catalysts were tested, which allowed for catalyst reuse. Similar results were also observed under flow conditions using copper immobilized on silica under thermal heating at 160 °C for a residence time of 2.7 min. Finally, HMF and 5,5′-oxybis(5-methylene-2-furaldehyde) (OBMF) were the only byproducts identified under the reaction conditions studied.
Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes in Thermal Plasma Reactor at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Szymanski Lukasz , Kolacinski Zbigniew , Wiak Slawomir , Raniszewski Grzegorz , Pietrzak Lukasz
Published: February 2017

In this paper, a novel approach to the synthesis of the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in reactors operating at atmospheric pressure is presented. Based on the literature and our own research results, the most effective methods of CNT synthesis are investigated. Then, careful selection of reagents for the synthesis process is shown. Thanks to the performed calculations, an optimum composition of gases and the temperature for successful CNT synthesis in the CVD (chemical vapor deposition) process can be chosen. The results, having practical significance, may lead to an improvement of nanomaterials synthesis technology. The study can be used to produce CNTs for electrical and electronic equipment (i.e., supercapacitors or cooling radiators). There is also a possibility of using them in medicine for cancer diagnostics and therapy.
RNA Biomarkers: Frontier of Precision Medicine for Cancer
Authors: Xi Xiaochen , Li Tianxiao , Huang Yiming , Sun Jiahui , Zhu Yumin , Yang Yang , Lu Zhi
Published: February 2017

As an essential part of central dogma, RNA delivers genetic and regulatory information and reflects cellular states. Based on high‐throughput sequencing technologies, cumulating data show that various RNA molecules are able to serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of various diseases, for instance, cancer. In particular, detectable in various bio‐fluids, such as serum, saliva and urine, extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) are emerging as non‐invasive biomarkers for earlier cancer diagnosis, tumor progression monitor, and prediction of therapy response. In this review, we summarize the latest studies on various types of RNA biomarkers, especially extracellular RNAs, in cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and illustrate several well‐known RNA biomarkers of clinical utility. In addition, we describe and discuss general procedures and issues in investigating exRNA biomarkers, and perspectives on utility of exRNAs in precision medicine.
Effects of Acute Blueberry Flavonoids on Mood in Children and Young Adults
Authors: Khalid Sundus , Barfoot Katie , May Gabrielle , Lamport Daniel , Reynolds Shirley , Williams Claire
Published: February 2017

Epidemiological evidence suggests that consumption of flavonoids (usually via fruits and vegetables) is associated with decreased risk of developing depression. One plausible explanation for this association is the well-documented beneficial effects of flavonoids on executive function (EF). Impaired EF is linked to cognitive processes (e.g., rumination) that maintain depression and low mood; therefore, improved EF may reduce depressionogenic cognitive processes and improve mood. Study 1: 21 young adults (18–21 years old) consumed a flavonoid-rich blueberry drink and a matched placebo in a counterbalanced cross-over design. Study 2: 50 children (7–10 years old) were randomly assigned to a flavonoid-rich blueberry drink or a matched placebo. In both studies, participants and researchers were blind to the experimental condition, and mood was assessed using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule before and 2 h after consumption of the drinks. In both studies, the blueberry intervention increased positive affect (significant drink by session interaction) but had no effect on negative affect. This observed effect of flavonoids on positive affect in two independent samples is of potential practical value in improving public health. If the effect of flavonoids on positive affect is replicated, further investigation will be needed to identify the mechanisms that link flavonoid interventions with improved positive mood.
Chemical Modification of Butyl Rubber with Maleic Anhydride via Nitroxide Chemistry and Its Application in Polymer Blends
Authors: Bonilla-Cruz José , Hernández-Mireles Brenda , Mendoza-Carrizales Ricardo , Ramírez-Leal Luis , Torres-Lubián Román , RamosdeValle Luis , Paul Donald , Saldívar-Guerra Enrique
Published: February 2017

Butyl rubber (isobutylene–isoprene–rubber, IIR) was functionalized in solution with a nitroxide moiety taking advantage of the unsaturations present in the isoprene units of IIR, and was further grafted with maleic anhydride (MA) or styrene–MA (SMA) to produce IIR-g-MA and IIR-g-SMA. In one of the functionalization techniques used, the molecular structure of the IIR was preserved as the chain-breaking reactions are prevented from occurring. The resulting graft copolymers were tested as compatiblizers/impact modifiers blended with Nylon-6, and one of them was preliminarily tested as a coupling agent in the preparation of nanocomposites of IIR and an organo-clay. Blends of PA-6/IIR-g-MA exhibited a significant increase in impact resistance at increasing loads of the modified IIR, as well as a good rubber particle dispersion in the polyamide matrix. On the other hand, the performance of IIR-g-SMA as an impact modifier of PA, or as a coupling agent in the preparation of rubber-organoclay nanocomposites, is marginal.
Polymer Conformation under Confinement
Authors: Bollas Stavros , Chrissopoulou Kiriaki , Andrikopoulos Konstantinos , Voyiatzis George , Anastasiadis Spiros
Published: February 2017

The conformation of polymer chains under confinement is investigated in intercalated polymer/layered silicate nanocomposites. Hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide)/sodium montmorillonite, PEO/Na+-MMT, hybrids were prepared utilizing melt intercalation with compositions where the polymer chains are mostly within the ~1 nm galleries of the inorganic material. The polymer chains are completely amorphous in all compositions even at temperatures where the bulk polymer is highly crystalline. Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) is utilized to investigate the conformation of the polymer chains over a broad range of temperatures from below to much higher than the bulk polymer melting temperature. A systematic increase of the gauche conformation relatively to the trans is found with decreasing polymer content both for the C–C and the C–O bonds that exist along the PEO backbone indicating that the severe confinement and the proximity to the inorganic surfaces results in a more disordered state of the polymer.
John Calvin and John Locke on the Sensus Divinitatis and Innatism
Authors: Clanton J.
Published: February 2017

Inheritors of the Calvinist Reformed tradition have long disagreed about whether knowledge of God’s nature and existence can be or need be acquired inferentially by means of the standard arguments of natural theology. Nonetheless, they have traditionally coalesced around the thought that some sense or awareness of God is naturally implanted or innate in human beings. A root of this orientation can be found in John Calvin’s discussion of the sensus divinitatis in the first book of The Institutes of the Christian Religion. This paper outlines a pedagogical strategy for organizing and evaluating Calvin’s treatment of the sensus divinitatis, chiefly by putting it in tension with John Locke’s polemic against innatism in Book I of An Essay concerning Human Understanding. I begin by reconstructing Calvin’s depiction of the sensus divinitatis, as well as his case for thinking that it is innate. I then explain how Locke’s critique of innatism offers a fairly direct response to Calvin and, hence, a useful framework for exploring the limits of Calvin’s treatment of the sensus divinitatis.
Access and Benefit Sharing under the Convention on Biological Diversity and Its Protocol: What Can Some Numbers Tell Us about the Effectiveness of the Regulatory Regime?
Authors: Pauchard Nicolas
Published: February 2017

The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), adopted in 1992 and entered into force at the end of 1993, established a global regime on access to genetic resources (GR) and sharing of benefits arising from their utilization (Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) regime). Its protocol—the Nagoya Protocol (NP)—which entered into force 21 years later in 2014, clears up some terminological ambiguities of the Convention, clarifies and develops several procedural and instrumental elements of the regime, and obliges States Parties to implement some of its provisions, including the core instrument of the regime: the bilateral ABS agreement between users and providers of GR, that became a condition for obtaining access to the resource. However, scholars who analyzed the ABS regime as well as its official bodies find, and sometimes deplore, the small number of ABS agreements concluded so far, under the CBD as under the NP. This paper has two objectives: First, to assess the effectiveness of the ABS regime implemented by the CBD and the NP on the basis of its central instrument: the ABS agreements concluded between users and providers of GR. The aim is to accurately document the number of ABS agreements concluded since the entry into force of the regime. To our knowledge, such a counting that is neither piecemeal nor has an estimate yet been produced. To do so, I combine several sources, including first hand data collected from the official information agencies—the National Focal Points (NFP)—of each of the States Parties to the NP. Second, I provide a critical summary of the existing explanations of the low number of ABS agreements concluded and I evaluate the corresponding causal mechanisms, relying on the results I obtained regarding the number of permits and agreements.
Analyses of Recent Sediment Surface Dynamic of a Namibian Kalahari Salt Pan Based on Multitemporal Landsat and Hyperspectral Hyperion Data
Authors: Milewski Robert , Chabrillat Sabine , Behling Robert
Published: February 2017

This study combines spaceborne multitemporal and hyperspectral data to analyze the spatial distribution of surface evaporite minerals and changes in a semi-arid depositional environment associated with episodic flooding events, the Omongwa salt pan (Kalahari, Namibia). The dynamic of the surface crust is evaluated by a change-detection approach using the Iterative-reweighted Multivariate Alteration Detection (IR-MAD) based on the Landsat archive imagery from 1984 to 2015. The results show that the salt pan is a highly dynamic and heterogeneous landform. A change gradient is observed from very stable pan border to a highly dynamic central pan. On the basis of hyperspectral EO-1 Hyperion images, the current distribution of surface evaporite minerals is characterized using Spectral Mixture Analysis (SMA). Assessment of field and image endmembers revealed that the pan surface can be categorized into three major crust types based on diagnostic absorption features and mineralogical ground truth data. The mineralogical crust types are related to different zones of surface change as well as pan morphology that influences brine flow during the pan inundation and desiccation cycles. These combined information are used to spatially map depositional environments where the more dynamic halite crust concentrates in lower areas although stable gypsum and calcite/sepiolite crusts appear in higher elevated areas.
Hydrological Modelling using Satellite-Based Crop Coefficients: A Comparison of Methods at the Basin Scale
Authors: Hunink Johannes , Eekhout Joris , Vente Joris , Contreras Sergio , Droogers Peter , Baille Alain
Published: February 2017

The parameterization of crop coefficients (kc) is critical for determining a water balance. We used satellite-based and literature-based methods to derive kc values for a distributed hydrologic model. We evaluated the impact of different kc parametrization methods on the water balance and simulated hydrologic response at the basin and sub-basin scale. The hydrological model SPHY was calibrated and validated for a period of 15 years for the upper Segura basin (~2500 km2) in Spain, which is characterized by a wide range of terrain, soil, and ecosystem conditions. The model was then applied, using six kc parameterization methods, to determine their spatial and temporal impacts on actual evapotranspiration, streamflow, and soil moisture. The parameterization methods used include: (i) Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) observations from MODIS; (ii) seasonally-averaged NDVI patterns, cell-based and landuse-based; and (iii) literature-based tabular values per land use type. The analysis shows that the influence of different kc parametrization methods on basin-level streamflow is relatively small and constant throughout the year, but it has a bigger effect on seasonal evapotranspiration and soil moisture. In the autumn especially, deviations can go up to about 15% of monthly streamflow. At smaller, sub-basin scale, deviations from the NDVI-based reference run can be more than 30%. Overall, the study shows that modeling of future hydrological changes can be improved by using remote sensing information for the parameterization of crop coefficients.
Urban Land Extraction Using VIIRS Nighttime Light Data: An Evaluation of Three Popular Methods
Authors: Dou Yinyin , Liu Zhifeng , He Chunyang , Yue Huanbi
Published: February 2017

Timely and accurate extraction of urban land area using the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) nighttime light data is important for urban studies. However, a comprehensive assessment of the existing methods for extracting urban land using VIIRS nighttime light data remains inadequate. Therefore, we first reviewed the relevant methods and selected three popular methods for extracting urban land area using nighttime light data. These methods included local-optimized thresholding (LOT), vegetation-adjusted nighttime light urban index (VANUI), integrated nighttime lights, normalized difference vegetation index, and land surface temperature support vector machine classification (INNL-SVM). Then, we assessed the performance of these methods for extracting urban land area based on the VIIRS nighttime light data in seven evaluation areas with various natural and socioeconomic conditions in China. We found that INNL-SVM had the best performance with an average kappa of 0.80, which was 6.67% higher than the LOT and 2.56% higher than the VANUI. The superior performance of INNL-SVM was mainly attributed to the integration of information on nighttime light, vegetation cover, and land surface temperature. This integration effectively reduced the commission and omission errors arising from the overflow effect and low light brightness of the VIIRS nighttime light data. Additionally, INNL-SVM can extract urban land area more easily. Thus, we suggest that INNL-SVM has great potential for effectively extracting urban land with VIIRS nighttime light data at large scales.
Comparative Study of Different Methods for Soot Sensing and Filter Monitoring in Diesel Exhausts
Authors: Feulner Markus , Hagen Gunter , Hottner Kathrin , Redel Sabrina , Müller Andreas , Moos Ralf
Published: February 2017

Due to increasingly tighter emission limits for diesel and gasoline engines, especially concerning particulate matter emissions, particulate filters are becoming indispensable devices for exhaust gas after treatment. Thereby, for an efficient engine and filter control strategy and a cost-efficient filter design, reliable technologies to determine the soot load of the filters and to measure particulate matter concentrations in the exhaust gas during vehicle operation are highly needed. In this study, different approaches for soot sensing are compared. Measurements were conducted on a dynamometer diesel engine test bench with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). The DPF was monitored by a relatively new microwave-based approach. Simultaneously, a resistive type soot sensor and a Pegasor soot sensing device as a reference system measured the soot concentration exhaust upstream of the DPF. By changing engine parameters, different engine out soot emission rates were set. It was found that the microwave-based signal may not only indicate directly the filter loading, but by a time derivative, the engine out soot emission rate can be deduced. Furthermore, by integrating the measured particulate mass in the exhaust, the soot load of the filter can be determined. In summary, all systems coincide well within certain boundaries and the filter itself can act as a soot sensor.
A Biocompatible Colorimetric Triphenylamine- Dicyanovinyl Conjugated Fluorescent Probe for Selective and Sensitive Detection of Cyanide Ion in Aqueous Media and Living Cells
Authors: Zheng Zi-Hua , Li Zhi-Ke , Song Lin-Jiang , Wang Qi-Wei , Huang Qing-Fei , Yang Li
Published: February 2017

A colorimetric and turn-on fluorescent probe 1 bearing triphenylamine-thiophene and dicyanovinyl groups has been synthesized and used to detect cyanide anion via a nucleophilic addition reaction. Probe 1 exhibited prominent selectivity and sensitivity towards CN− in aqueous media, even in the presence of other anions such as S2−, HS−, SO32−, S2O32−, S2O82−, I−, Br−, Cl−, F−, NO2−, N3−, SO42−, SCN−, HCO3−, CO32− and AcO−. Moreover, a low detection limit (LOD, 51 nM) was observed. In addition, good cell membrane permeability and low cytotoxicity to HeLa cells were also observed, suggesting its promising potential in bio-imaging.
Toward Improving Electrocardiogram (ECG) Biometric Verification using Mobile Sensors: A Two-Stage Classifier Approach
Authors: Tan Robin , Perkowski Marek
Published: February 2017

Electrocardiogram (ECG) signals sensed from mobile devices pertain the potential for biometric identity recognition applicable in remote access control systems where enhanced data security is demanding. In this study, we propose a new algorithm that consists of a two-stage classifier combining random forest and wavelet distance measure through a probabilistic threshold schema, to improve the effectiveness and robustness of a biometric recognition system using ECG data acquired from a biosensor integrated into mobile devices. The proposed algorithm is evaluated using a mixed dataset from 184 subjects under different health conditions. The proposed two-stage classifier achieves a total of 99.52% subject verification accuracy, better than the 98.33% accuracy from random forest alone and 96.31% accuracy from wavelet distance measure algorithm alone. These results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm for biometric identification, hence supporting its practicality in areas such as cloud data security, cyber-security or remote healthcare systems.
Feasibility Study of the Post-2020 Commitment to the Power Generation Sector in South Korea
Authors: Yun Taesik , Kim Younggook , Kim Jang-yeop
Published: February 2017

We analyze the economic effects of greenhouse gases (GHG) reduction measures of the generation sector of South Korea to accomplish the 2030 GHG reduction target using a scenario-based approach. We estimate the GHG emission of the South Korean power industry in 2030 based on both the 7th Electricity Supply and Demand Plan and the GHG emission coefficients issued by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). We establish four scenarios for reduction measures by replacing the coal-fired power plants with nuclear power, renewable energy and carbon capture and storage, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) combined cycle generation. Finally, the nuclear power scenario demonstrates the most positive measure in terms of GHG reduction and economic effects.
Mapping the Influence of Land Use/Land Cover Changes on the Urban Heat Island Effect—A Case Study of Changchun, China
Authors: Yang Chaobin , He Xingyuan , Yan Fengqin , Yu Lingxue , Bu Kun , Yang Jiuchun , Chang Liping , Zhang Shuwen
Published: February 2017

The spatio-temporal patterns of land use/land cover changes (LUCC) can significantly affect the distribution and intensity of the urban heat island (UHI) effect. However, few studies have mapped a clear picture of the influence of LUCC on UHI. In this study, both qualitative and quantitative models are employed to explore the effect of LUCC on UHI. UHI and LUCC maps were retrieved from Landsat data acquired from 1984, 1992, 2000, 2007, and 2014 to show their spatiotemporal patterns. The results showed that: (1) both the patterns of LUCC and UHI have had dramatic changes in the past 30 years. The urban area of Changchun increased more than four times, from 143.15 km2 in 1984 to 577.45 km2 in 2014, and the proportion of UHI regions has increased from 15.27% in 1984 to 29.62% in 2014; (2) the spatiotemporal changes in thermal environment were consistent with the process of urbanization. The average LST of the study area has been continuously increasing as many other land use types have been transformed to urban regions. The mean temperatures were higher in urban regions than rural areas over all of the periods, but the UHI intensity varied based on different measurements; and (3) the thermal environment inside the city varied widely even within a small area. The LST possesses a very strong positive relationship with impervious surface area (ISA), and the relationship has become stronger in recent years. The UHI we employ, specifically in this study, is SUHI (surface urban heat island).
Analyzing Agricultural Agglomeration in China
Authors: Li Erling , Coates Ken , Li Xiaojian , Ye Xinyue , Leipnik Mark
Published: February 2017

There has been little scholarly research on Chinese agriculture’s geographic pattern of agglomeration and its evolutionary mechanisms, which are essential to sustainable development in China. By calculating the barycenter coordinates, the Gini coefficient, spatial autocorrelation and specialization indices for 11 crops during 1981–2012, we analyze the evolutionary pattern and mechanisms of agricultural agglomeration. We argue that the degree of spatial concentration of Chinese planting has been gradually increasing and that regional specialization and diversification have progressively been strengthened. Furthermore, Chinese crop production is moving from the eastern provinces to the central and western provinces. This is in contrast to Chinese manufacturing growth which has continued to be concentrated in the coastal and southeastern regions. In Northeast China, the Sanjiang and Songnen plains have become agricultural clustering regions, and the earlier domination of aquaculture and rice production in Southeast China has gradually decreased. In summary, this paper provides a political economy framework for understanding the regionalization of Chinese agriculture, focusing on the interaction among the objectives, decisionmaking behavior, path dependencies and spatial effects.
HCIV-1 and Other Tailless Icosahedral Internal Membrane-Containing Viruses of the Family Sphaerolipoviridae
Authors: Demina Tatiana , Pietilä Maija , Svirskaitė Julija , Ravantti Janne , Atanasova Nina , Bamford Dennis , Oksanen Hanna
Published: February 2017

Members of the virus family Sphaerolipoviridae include both archaeal viruses and bacteriophages that possess a tailless icosahedral capsid with an internal membrane. The genera Alpha- and Betasphaerolipovirus comprise viruses that infect halophilic euryarchaea, whereas viruses of thermophilic Thermus bacteria belong to the genus Gammasphaerolipovirus. Both sequence-based and structural clustering of the major capsid proteins and ATPases of sphaerolipoviruses yield three distinct clades corresponding to these three genera. Conserved virion architectural principles observed in sphaerolipoviruses suggest that these viruses belong to the PRD1-adenovirus structural lineage. Here we focus on archaeal alphasphaerolipoviruses and their related putative proviruses. The highest sequence similarities among alphasphaerolipoviruses are observed in the core structural elements of their virions: the two major capsid proteins, the major membrane protein, and a putative packaging ATPase. A recently described tailless icosahedral haloarchaeal virus, Haloarcula californiae icosahedral virus 1 (HCIV-1), has a double-stranded DNA genome and an internal membrane lining the capsid. HCIV-1 shares significant similarities with the other tailless icosahedral internal membrane-containing haloarchaeal viruses of the family Sphaerolipoviridae. The proposal to include a new virus species, Haloarcula virus HCIV1, into the genus Alphasphaerolipovirus was submitted to the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) in 2016.
Protein Composition of the Bovine Herpesvirus 1.1 Virion
Authors: Barber Kaley , Daugherty Hillary , Ander Stephanie , Jefferson Victoria , Shack Leslie , Pechan Tibor , Nanduri Bindu , Meyer Florencia
Published: February 2017

Bovine herpesvirus (BoHV) type 1 is an important agricultural pathogen that infects cattle and other ruminants worldwide. Acute infection of the oro-respiratory tract leads to immune suppression and allows commensal bacteria to infect an otherwise healthy lower respiratory tract. This condition is known as the Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD). BoHV-1 latently infects the host for life and periodical stress events re-initiate BRD, translating into high morbidity and large economic losses. To gain a better understanding of the biology of BoHV-1 and the disease it causes, we elucidated the protein composition of extracellular virions using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. We detected 33 viral proteins, including the expected proteins of the nucleocapsid and envelope as well as other regulatory proteins present in the viral tegument. In addition to viral proteins, we have also identified packaged proteins of host origin. This constitutes the first proteomic characterization of the BoHV virion.
Vision
Authors: Parker Andrew
Published: February 2017

Vision is a new open-access journal covering all aspects of experimental vision research and clinical science. We particularly want to create a forum for the development of a dialogue between fundamental laboratory-based research and clinical research practice [...]
Structuring Climate Adaptation through Multiple Perspectives: Framework and Case Study on Flood Risk Management
Authors: Radhakrishnan Mohanasundar , Pathirana Assela , Ashley Richard , Zevenbergen Chris
Published: February 2017

Adaptation to climate change is being addressed in many domains. This means that there are multiple perspectives on adaptation; often with differing visions resulting in disconnected responses and outcomes. Combining singular perspectives into coherent, combined perspectives that include multiple needs and visions can help to deepen the understanding of various aspects of adaptation and provide more effective responses. Such combinations of perspectives can help to increase the range and variety of adaptation measures available for implementation or avoid maladaptation compared with adaptations derived from a singular perspective. The objective of this paper is to present and demonstrate a framework for structuring the local adaptation responses using the inputs from multiple perspectives. The adaptation response framing has been done by: (i) contextualizing climate change adaptation needs; (ii) analyzing drivers of change; (iii) characterizing measures of adaptation; and (iv) establishing links between the measures with a particular emphasis on taking account of multiple perspectives. This framework was demonstrated with reference to the management of flood risks in a case study Can Tho, Vietnam. The results from the case study show that framing of adaptation responses from multiple perspectives can enhance the understanding of adaptation measures, thereby helping to bring about more flexible implementation practices.
Raw Water Quality and Pretreatment in Managed Aquifer Recharge for Drinking Water Production in Finland
Authors: Jokela Petri , Eskola Tapani , Heinonen Timo , Tanttu Unto , Tyrväinen Jukka , Artimo Aki
Published: February 2017

The main objective of managed aquifer recharge (MAR) in Finland is the removal of natural organic matter (NOM) from surface waters. A typical MAR procedure consists of the infiltration of surface water into a Quaternary glaciofluvial esker with subsequent withdrawal of the MAR treated water from wells a few hundred meters downstream. The infiltrated water should have a residence time of at least approximately one month before withdrawal to provide sufficient time for the subsurface processes needed to break down or remove humic substances. Most of the Finnish MAR plants do not have pretreatment and raw water is infiltrated directly into the soil. The objectives of this paper are to present MAR experiences and to discuss the need for and choice of pretreatment. Data from basin, sprinkling, and well infiltration processes are presented. Total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations of the raw waters presented here varied from 6.5 to 11 mg/L and after MAR the TOC concentrations of the abstracted waters were approximately 2 mg/L. The overall reduction of organic matter in the treatment (with or without pretreatment) was 70%-85%. Mechanical pretreatment can be used for clogging prevention. Turbidity of the Finnish lakes used as raw water does not necessitate pretreatment in basin and sprinkling infiltration, however, pretreatment in well infiltration needs to be judged separately. River waters may have high turbidity requiring pretreatment. Biodegradation of NOM in the saturated groundwater zone consumes dissolved oxygen. Thus, a high NOM concentration may create conditions for dissolution of iron and manganese from the soil. These conditions may be avoided by the addition of chemical pretreatment. Raw waters with TOC content up to at least approximately 8 mg/L were infiltrated without any considerations of chemical pretreatment, which should be evaluated based on local conditions.
Could Changing Power Relationships Lead to Better Water Sharing in Central Asia?
Authors: Zhupankhan Aibek , Tussupova Kamshat , Berndtsson Ronny
Published: February 2017

Even though Central Asia is water rich, water disputes have characterized the region after crumbling of the Soviet Union in 1991. The uneven spatial distribution and complex pattern of transboundary water sources with contrasting national water needs have created an intricate water dilemma. Increasing national water needs, water claims by surrounding countries, uncertainties in renewable water volumes, and effects of climate change will put further strain on the future water use in Central Asia. We argue that the present power distribution with three downstream hegemons (Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) and two upstream much poorer countries with less political influence (Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan) is not likely to lead forward to a greater willingness to share water. We discuss this situation with the analogue Egypt-Sudan-Ethiopia in the Nile Basin. Thus, as in the case of Ethiopia in the Nile Basin, gradually economically stronger upstream countries Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan due to hydropower development are likely to eventually re-define the hydropolitical map of Central Asia. As in the case of the Nile Basin, a more even power balance between upstream and downstream countries may lead to an improved political structure for a much-needed better collaboration on water issues.
Type Ibn Supernovae Show Photometric Homogeneity and Spectral Diversity at Maximum Light
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Griffin , Arcavi Iair , Valenti Stefano , McCully Curtis , Howell D. Andrew , Johansson Joel , Sollerman Jesper , Pastorello Andrea , Benetti Stefano , Cao Yi , Cenko S. Bradley , Clubb Kelsey I. , Corsi Alessandra , Duggan Gina , Elias-Rosa Nancy , Filippenko Alexei V. , Fox Ori D. , Fremling Christoffer , Horesh Assaf , Karamehmetoglu Emir , Kasliwal Mansi , Marion G. H. , Ofek Eran , Sand David , Taddia Francesco , Zheng WeiKang , Fraser Morgan , Gal-Yam Avishay , Inserra Cosimo , Laher Russ , Masci Frank , Rebbapragada Umaa , Smartt Stephen , Smith Ken W. , Sullivan Mark , Surace Jason , Woźniak Przemek
Published: February 2017

Type Ibn supernovae (SNe) are a small yet intriguing class of explosions whose spectra are characterized by low-velocity helium emission lines with little to no evidence for hydrogen. The prevailing theory has been that these are the core-collapse explosions of very massive stars embedded in helium-rich circumstellar material (CSM). We report optical observations of six new SNe Ibn: PTF11rfh, PTF12ldy, iPTF14aki, iPTF15ul, SN 2015G, and iPTF15akq. This brings the sample size of such objects in the literature to 22. We also report new data, including a near-infrared spectrum, on the Type Ibn SN 2015U. In order to characterize the class as a whole, we analyze the photometric and spectroscopic properties of the full Type Ibn sample. We find that, despite the expectation that CSM interaction would generate a heterogeneous set of light curves, as seen in SNe IIn, most Type Ibn light curves are quite similar in shape, declining at rates around 0.1 mag day−1 during the first month after maximum light, with a few significant exceptions. Early spectra of SNe Ibn come in at least two varieties, one that shows narrow P Cygni lines and another dominated by broader emission lines, both around maximum light, which may be an indication of differences in the state of the progenitor system at the time of explosion. Alternatively, the spectral diversity could arise from viewing-angle effects or merely from a lack of early spectroscopic coverage. Together, the relative light curve homogeneity and narrow spectral features suggest that the CSM consists of a spatially confined shell of helium surrounded by a less dense extended wind.
Characterizing K2 Candidate Planetary Systems Orbiting Low-mass Stars. I. Classifying Low-mass Host Stars Observed during Campaigns 1–7
Authors: Dressing Courtney D. , Newton Elisabeth R. , Schlieder Joshua E. , Charbonneau David , Knutson Heather A. , Vanderburg Andrew , Sinukoff Evan
Published: February 2017

We present near-infrared spectra for 144 candidate planetary systems identified during Campaigns 1–7 of the NASA K2 Mission. The goal of the survey was to characterize planets orbiting low-mass stars, but our Infrared Telescope Facility/SpeX and Palomar/TripleSpec spectroscopic observations revealed that 49% of our targets were actually giant stars or hotter dwarfs reddened by interstellar extinction. For the 72 stars with spectra consistent with classification as cool dwarfs (spectral types K3–M4), we refined their stellar properties by applying empirical relations based on stars with interferometric radius measurements. Although our revised temperatures are generally consistent with those reported in the Ecliptic Plane Input Catalog (EPIC), our revised stellar radii are typically 0.13

(39%) larger than the EPIC values, which were based on model isochrones that have been shown to underestimate the radii of cool dwarfs. Our improved stellar characterizations will enable more efficient prioritization of K2 targets for follow-up studies.
Innovative Mental Health Clinical Placement: Developing Nurses' Relationship Skills
Authors: Perlman Dana , Taylor Ellie , Moxham Lorna , Patterson Chris , Brighton Renee , Heffernan Tim , Sumskis Susan
Published: February 2017

Engagement in clinical placements is mandatory for all pre-registration nursing programs. Although clinical placements can be valuable, recent literature illustrates that placements within a mental health setting can vary in their educational development. The aim of the current study was to examine the potential learning benefit of 20 pre-registration nursing students in an innovative, university-accredited mental health clinical placement called Recovery Camp. Recovery Camp is a 5-day immersive clinical placement, grounded in therapeutic recreation, which involves all participants engaging in a variety of activities focused on enhancing personal recovery. Qualitative data were collected using individual interviews, reflective journals, and researcher field notes. Analysis of data was conducted using an inductive thematic approach. Analysis of data revealed five themes: (a)
Initial Anxiety/Nervousness
, (b)
Diffusion of Power
, (c)
Student Perceptions of Consumers
, (d)
Interaction and Communication
, and (e) R
esource Shift as a Result of Camp
. Developing the professional learning of pre-registration nurses through immersion in effective clinical placements is paramount. Findings demonstrate that pre-registration nurses may benefit from clinical placements that provide immersive and collaborative experiences that allow for the development of relationship-oriented skills that can facilitate person-centered care. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
,
55
(2), 36–43.]
Responses of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) seeds stored under different germination temperatures
Authors: Strenske Andressa , Vasconcelos Edmar Soares de , Egewarth Vanessa Aline , Herzog Neusa Francisca Michelon , Malavasi Marlene De Matos
Published: February 2017

In this experiment, we assessed the germination and vigor of quinoa seeds packed in paper bags and stored at room temperature for 36, 85, 119, 146, 177 and 270 days. The seeds were harvested under experimental conditions in Marechal Candido Rondon, Paraná, during the 2012/13 growing seasons. Four replicates of 100 seeds each were established for each storage time, and the seeds were evaluated, on paper, based on the BOD under the following experimental temperature conditions: alternating temperatures of 20 and 30°C and a constant temperature of 25°C. The seeds from both treatments were subject to seven-hour photoperiods and 25°C under continuous darkness. The germinated seeds were counted daily for eight days after sowing, and we evaluated the percentages of normal and abnormal seedlings and the germination index. The experimental design was completely randomized using a split-plot design. Increasing the storage time decreased the percentage of germinated seeds and seed vigor due to the increased number of abnormal seedlings. Over the 430-day study period, quinoa seed germination completely declined under the experimental conditions. The final number of germinating seeds should be evaluated 7 days after the beginning of the germination test.
O indivíduo como problema na Alta Idade Média. Perspectivas epistemológicas e literárias
Authors: Amaral Ronaldo
Published: February 2017

A teoria literária ofereceu uma contribuição definitiva ao conhecimento histórico, sobretudo se coadunada com uma discussão propriamente epistemológica sobre o seu papel enquanto representação literária. Partindo desta assertiva concordamos que o texto literário cobra um lugar de primeira importância para o conhecimento histórico, pois todo o conhecimento possível do “passado”, enquanto testemunho escrito, nele se constitui enquanto representação e dele emerge para ser de novo reapresentado. Daqui partiremos, ao propor um modus operandi por meio do qual uma fonte literária medieval pode ser apreendida como fonte histórica, ao considerar precisamente conceitos literários, como o individuo e o autor.