bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue degeneration in ALS affected spinal cord evaluated by Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Picardi Gennaro , Spalloni Alida , Generosi Amanda , Paci Barbara , Mercuri Nicola Biagio , Luce Marco , Longone Patrizia , Cricenti Antonio
Published: August 2018

The Raman spectral features from spinal cord tissue sections of transgenic, ALS model mice and non-transgenic mice were compared using 457 nm excitation line, profiting from the favourable signal intensity obtained in the molecular fingerprint region at this wavelength. Transverse sections from four SOD1G93A mice at 75 days and from two at 90 days after birth were analysed and compared with sections of similarly aged control mice. The spectra acquired within the grey matter of tissue sections from the diseased mice is markedly different from the grey matter signature of healthy mice. In particular, we observe an intensity increase in the spectral windows 450–650 cm−1 and 1050–1200 cm−1, accompanied by an intensity decrease in the lipid contributions at ~1660 cm−1, ~1440 cm−1 and ~1300 cm−1. Axons demyelination, loss of lipid structural order and the proliferation and aggregation of branched proteoglycans are related to the observed spectral modifications. Furthermore, the grey and white matter components of the spinal cord sections could also be spectrally distinguished, based on the relative intensity of characteristic lipid and protein bands. Raman spectra acquired from the white matter regions of the SOD1G93A mice closely resembles those from control mice.
Intrinsic structural and electronic properties of the Buffer Layer on Silicon Carbide unraveled by Density Functional Theory
Authors: Cavallucci Tommaso , Tozzini Valentina
Published: August 2018

The buffer carbon layer obtained in the first instance by evaporation of Si from the Si-rich surfaces of silicon carbide (SiC) is often studied only as the intermediate to the synthesis of SiC supported graphene. In this work, we explore its intrinsic potentialities, addressing its structural and electronic properties by means of Density Functional Theory. While the system of corrugation crests organized in a honeycomb super-lattice of nano-metric side returned by calculations is compatible with atomic microscopy observations, our work reveals some possible alternative symmetries, which might coexist in the same sample. The electronic structure analysis reveals the presence of an electronic gap of ~0.7 eV. In-gap states are present, localized over the crests, while near-gap states reveal very different structure and space localization, being either bonding states or outward pointing p orbitals and unsaturated Si dangling bonds. On one hand, the presence of these interface states was correlated with the n-doping of the monolayer graphene subsequently grown on the buffer. On the other hand, the correlation between their chemical character and their space localization is likely to produce a differential reactivity towards specific functional groups with a spatial regular modulation at the nano-scale, opening perspectives for a finely controlled chemical functionalization.
Spontaneous colloidal metal network formation driven by molten salt electrolysis
Authors: Natsui Shungo , Sudo Takuya , Kaneko Takumi , Tonya Kazui , Nakajima Daiki , Kikuchi Tatsuya , Suzuki Ryosuke O.
Published: August 2018

The molten salt-based direct reduction process for reactive solid metal outperforms traditional pyrometallurgical methods in energy efficiency. However, the simplity and rapidity of this process require a deeper understanding of the interfacial morphology in the vicinity of liquid metal deposited at the cathode. For the first time, here we report the time change of electrode surface on the sub-millisecond/micrometre scale in molten LiCl-CaCl2 at 823 K. When the potential was applied, liquid Li-Ca alloy droplets grew on the electrode, and the black colloidal metal moved on the electrode surface to form a network structure. The unit cell size of the network and the number density of droplets were found to depend on the applied potential. These results will provide important information about the microscale mixing action near the electrode, and accelerate the development of metallothermic reduction of oxides.
Unique Symmetry-Breaking Phenomenon during the Self-assembly of Macroions Elucidated by Simulation
Authors: Liu Zhuonan , Liu Tianbo , Tsige Mesfin
Published: August 2018

Various soluble hydrophilic macroions can self-assemble into hollow, spherical, monolayered supramolecular “blackberry”-type structures, despite their like-charged nature. However, how the 3-D symmetrical macroions prefer to form 2-D monolayers in bulk solution, especially for the highly symmetrical “Keplerate” polyoxometalates and functionalized C60 macroions has been a mystery. Through molecular dynamics simulations, using a model specifically designed for macroions in solution, the mechanism of this intriguing symmetry-breaking process is found to be related to the apparently asymmetric charge distribution on the surface of macroions in the equatorial belt area (the area which can be effectively involved in the counterion-mediated attraction). As a result, the electric field lines around macroions during the self-assembly process clearly show that the symmetry-breaking happens at the dimer level effectively defining the plane of the self-assembly. These findings are expected to contribute to our fundamental knowledge of complex solution systems that are found in many fields from materials science to biological phenomena.
Differential DNA methylation of potassium channel KCa3.1 and immune signalling pathways is associated with infant immune responses following BCG vaccination
Authors: Hasso-Agopsowicz Mateusz , Scriba Thomas J. , Hanekom Willem A. , Dockrell Hazel M. , Smith Steven G.
Published: August 2018

Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) is the only licensed vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) and induces highly variable protection against pulmonary disease in different countries. We hypothesised that DNA methylation is one of the molecular mechanisms driving variability in BCG-induced immune responses. DNA methylation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from BCG vaccinated infants was measured and comparisons made between low and high BCG-specific cytokine responders. We found 318 genes and 67 pathways with distinct patterns of DNA methylation, including immune pathways, e.g. for T cell activation, that are known to directly affect immune responses. We also highlight signalling pathways that could indirectly affect the BCG-induced immune response: potassium and calcium channel, muscarinic acetylcholine receptor, G Protein coupled receptor (GPCR), glutamate signalling and WNT pathways. This study suggests that in addition to immune pathways, cellular processes drive vaccine-induced immune responses. Our results highlight mechanisms that require consideration when designing new TB vaccines.
Self-replication of circular DNA by a self-encoded DNA polymerase through rolling-circle replication and recombination
Authors: Sakatani Yoshihiro , Yomo Tetsuya , Ichihashi Norikazu
Published: August 2018

A major challenge in constructing artificial cells is the establishment of a recursive genome replication system coupled with gene expression from the genome itself. One of the simplest schemes of recursive DNA replication is the rolling-circle replication of a circular DNA coupled with recombination. In this study, we attempted to develop a replication system based on this scheme using self-encoded phi29 DNA polymerase and externally supplied Cre recombinase. We first identified that DNA polymerization is significantly inhibited by Cre recombinase. To overcome this problem, we performed in vitro evolution and obtained an evolved circular DNA that can replicate efficiently in the presence of the recombinase. We also showed evidence that during replication of the evolved DNA, the circular DNA was reproduced through recombination by Cre recombinase. These results demonstrate that the evolved circular DNA can reproduce itself through gene expression of a self-encoded polymerase. This study provides a step forward in developing a simple recursive DNA replication system for use in an artificial cell.
Publisher Correction: Nitrogen-doping induces tunable magnetism in ReS2
Authors: Zhang Qin , Ren Zemian , Wu Nian , Wang Wenjie , Gao Yingjie , Zhang Qiqi , Shi Jing , Zhuang Lin , Sun Xiangnan , Fu Lei
Published: August 2018

In the title of this paper “tunable” was incorrectly spelt as “tunfable”. This has now been corrected in the HTML and PDF versions of this article.
Microwave-assisted ultrafast fabrication of high-performance polypyrrole nanoparticles for photothermal therapy of tumors in vivo
Authors: Zhang Cai , Pan Haiyan , Wang Xu , Sun Shao-Kai
Published: August 2018

Microwave-assisted ultrafast fabrication of high-performance polypyrrole nanoparticles for photothermal therapy of tumors in vivo.
Thermoelectric properties of two-dimensional selenene and tellurene from group-VI elements
Authors: Lin Chensheng , Cheng Wendan , Chai Guoliang , Zhang Hao
Published: August 2018

Tellurene: the lowest lattice thermal conductivity among single-layer elemental two-dimensional materials.
Impact of H-termination on the nitrogen reduction reaction of molybdenum carbide as an electrochemical catalyst
Authors: Li Qinye , Qiu Siyao , He Lizhong , Zhang Xiwang , Sun Chenghua
Published: August 2018

H-Terminals can remarkably affect the performance of catalysts in nitrogen reduction.
Valorisation of xylose to lactic acid on morphology-controlled ZnO catalysts
Authors: Paulino Priscilla N. , Reis Orlani C. , Licea Yordy E. , Albuquerque Elise M. , Fraga Marco A.
Published: August 2018

The activity of ZnO catalysts is significantly driven by the strength of the basic sites determined by their morphology.
Salen, salan and salalen iron(iii) complexes as catalysts for CO2/epoxide reactions and ROP of cyclic esters
Authors: Cozzolino Mariachiara , Leo Vincenza , Tedesco Consiglia , Mazzeo Mina , Lamberti Marina
Published: August 2018

Salan, salen and salalen iron complexes as catalysts in CO2/epoxide reactions and in the ROP of ε-caprolactone and l-lactide.
Effect of lactoferrin on taste and smell abnormalities induced by chemotherapy: a proteome analysis
Authors: Wang Aili , Duncan Susan E. , Lesser Glenn J. , Ray William K. , Dietrich Andrea M.
Published: August 2018

Latoferrin supplementation significantly reduced taste and smell abnormality in chemotherapy patients and improved their oral immunity.
Sub-picogram level sensitivity in HIV diagnostics achieved with the europium nanoparticle immunoassay through metal enhanced fluorescence
Authors: Kurdekar Aditya , Chunduri L. A. Avinash , Haleyurgirisetty Mohan Kumar , Hewlett Indira K. , Kamisetti Venkataramaniah
Published: August 2018

Gold nanoparticle based metal enhanced fluorescence applied to the Europium Nanoparticle Immunoassay (ENIA) improves the limit of detection by ten-fold from 1.8 pg mL−1to 0.19 pg mL−1.
Treatment of neurodegenerative disorders through the blood–brain barrier using nanocarriers
Authors: Poovaiah N. , Davoudi Z. , Peng H. , Schlichtmann B. , Mallapragada S. , Narasimhan B. , Wang Q.
Published: August 2018

This review highlights the recent advancements in the preparations and applications of nanocarriers in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders through the blood–brain barrier.
A facile synthesis of porous N-doped carbon with hybridization of Fe3C nanoparticle-encased CNTs for an advanced oxygen reduction reaction electrocatalyst
Authors: Zhao Pingping , Nie Hanqiu , Yu Jiahao , Wang Jianbo , Cheng Gongzhen
Published: August 2018

Excellent ORR catalysis activity in both alkaline and acid media was found in porous N-doped carbon hybridized with Fe3C nanoparticle-encased CNTs by annealing ZIF-8, FeC2O4 and cyanoguanidine.
Multi-catalyst promoted asymmetric relay reactions
Authors: Liang Qiu-Ju , Xu Yun-He , Loh Teck-Peng
Published: August 2018

In this highlight, cooperative multi-catalyst systems, especially bismetallic- and organo-catalyst mediated asymmetric relay reactions, are presented.
Transition-metal-free direct C-3 alkylation of quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones with ethers
Authors: Yuan Jinwei , Fu Junhao , Yin Jihong , Dong Zhenhua , Xiao Yongmei , Mao Pu , Qu Lingbo
Published: August 2018

An efficient protocol for the synthesis of 3-alkyl quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones has been developed via the transition-metal-free cross-coupling reaction of quinoxalin-2(1H)-ones with ethers with moderate to good yields under relatively mild conditions.
Secopaxilline A, an indole-diterpenoid derivative from an aciduric Penicillium fungus, its identification and semisynthesis
Authors: Fan Yaqin , Wang Yi , Fu Peng , Chairoungdua Arthit , Piyachaturawat Pawinee , Zhu Weiming
Published: August 2018

Secopaxilline A, featuring a C–N cleavage of an indole-diterpenoid skeleton, was isolated from Penicillium camemberti and synthesized from paxilline.
High throughput mass spectrometry-based characterisation of Arabidopsis thaliana group H glycosyltransferases
Authors: Akere Aishat , Liu Qian , Wu Shibo , Hou Bingkai , Yang Min
Published: August 2018

We cloned and characterised four group H glycosyltransferases by studying their substrate specificities and kinetics. Sequence alignment and site-directed mutagenesis studies showed that serine is a crucial residue for UDPGlcNAc and UDPGal activity.
An approach toward miRNA detectionviadifferent thermo-responsive aggregation/disaggregation of CdTe quantum dots
Authors: Borghei Yasaman Sadat , Hosseini Morteza
Published: August 2018

A novel and “light shift” spectral method for the detection of miRNA based on different thermal-responsive aggregation/disaggregation of CdTe quantum dots was investigated.
One-pot synthesis of graphene quantum dots and simultaneous nanostructured self-assembly via a novel microwave-assisted method: impact on triazine removal and efficiency monitoring
Authors: Fresco-Cala Beatriz , Soriano M. Laura , Sciortino Alice , Cannas Marco , Messina Fabrizio , Cardenas Soledad
Published: August 2018

Graphene quantum dot (GQDs) assemblies from a one-step microwave reaction as bifunctional materials in remediation of triazines.
Nopinone-based aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-active difluoroboron β-diketonate complex: photophysical, electrochemical and electroluminescence properties
Authors: Jiang Qian , Zhang Mingguang , Wang Zhonglong , Song Jie , Yang Yiqin , Li Wenchao , Gu Wen , Xu Xu , Xu Haijun , Wang Shifa
Published: August 2018

Four difluoroboron (BF2) β-diketonate nopinone complexes 3a–3d which exhibited typical AIE property were synthesized. Owing to high absolute fluorescence quantum yields of 3b, EL device based on 3b was fabricated, which exhibits a blue-green light.
An iRGD peptide conjugated heparin nanocarrier for gastric cancer therapy
Authors: Ai Shichao , Zhen Shuang , Liu Zhijian , Sun Feng , He Xingchen , Chu Feng , Guan Wenxian , Wang Jianquan
Published: August 2018

A nontoxic, low immunogenic and high specific drug delivery system for gastric cancer.
Utilization of modified Dioscorea opposita Thunb. as a novel biosorbent for the adsorption of indigo carmine in aqueous solutions
Authors: Zhang Yanzhuo , Li Jun , Zhao Jing , Zhang Yi-fei , Fan Jing
Published: August 2018

It is important to identify efficient adsorbents for the removal of dyestuffs from aqueous solutions as this kind of pollution becomes more extensive.
Study on the fouling mechanism and cleaning method in the treatment of polymer flooding produced water with ion exchange membranes
Authors: Xia Qing , Guo Haicheng , Ye Yubing , Yu Shuili , Li Lei , Li Qi , Zhang Ruijun
Published: August 2018

The fouling and cleaning mechanism of ion exchange membranes in polymer flooding produced water treatment were investigated.
Preparation methods and release kinetics of Litsea cubeba essential oil microcapsules
Authors: Yang Yan-hong , Li Xiang-zhou , Zhang Sheng
Published: August 2018

LCEO microcapsules were prepared by various preparation methods such as grinding, saturated solution, freeze-drying, spray-drying with β-CD used as the wall material. Avrami's model was used to simulate the release rates of microcapsules.
Characterization of the piezoresistance in highly doped p-type 3C-SiC at cryogenic temperatures
Authors: Phan Hoang-Phuong , Dowling Karen M. , Nguyen Tuan-Khoa , Chapin Caitlin A. , Dinh Toan , Miller Ruth A. , Han Jisheng , Iacopi Alan , Senesky Debbie G. , Dao Dzung Viet , Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: August 2018

The piezoresistance in crystalline 3C-SiC epitaxially grown on Si was investigated at low temperatures down to 150 K. The large gauge factor in 3C-SiC indicates its feasibility for sensing applications in cryogenic environments.
Synthesis and characterization of an efficient and stable Al/Fe pillared clay catalyst for the catalytic wet air oxidation of phenol
Authors: Moma John , Baloyi Jeffrey , Ntho Thabang
Published: August 2018

A facile method for synthesizing Al/Fe pillared clays (PILCs) from natural bentonite clay, by using ultrasonic treatment during the aging and intercalation steps, has been established.
N-Doped graphene/C60covalent hybrid as a new material for energy harvesting applications
Authors: Barrejón Myriam , Arellano Luis M. , Gobeze Habtom B. , Gómez-Escalonilla María J. , Fierro Jose Luis G. , D'Souza Francis , Langa Fernando
Published: August 2018

N-Doped graphene (N-G) has been covalently functionalized on the nitrogen with a C60derivative. Photophysical studies of the new hybrid and electron pooling experiments reveal the utility of this material in photocatalytic energy harvesting applications.
Effect of ionic strength on the structure and elongational kinetics of vimentin filaments
Authors: G. Lopez Carlos , Saldanha Oliva , Aufderhorst-Roberts Anders , Martinez-Torres Cristina , Kuijs Merel , Koenderink Gijsje H. , Köster Sarah , Huber Klaus
Published: August 2018

The present work characterizes the assembly process of vimentin intermediate filaments with monovalent salts as an assembly trigger. A multi-scale approach is used, comprising time-resolved static and dynamic light scattering and quantitative scanning transmission electron microscopy.
Synthesis of cesium-doped ZnO nanoparticles as an electron extraction layer for efficient PbS colloidal quantum dot solar cells
Authors: Yang Fan , Xu Yalong , Gu Mengfan , Zhou Sijie , Wang Yongjie , Lu Kunyuan , Liu Zeke , Ling Xufeng , Zhu Zhijie , Chen Junmei , Wu Zhiyi , Zhang Yannan , Xue Ye , Li Fangchao , Yuan Jianyu , Ma Wanli
Published: August 2018

Cesium-doped ZnO nanoparticle was synthesized for application in PbS QD solar cells as an efficient electron transporting layer.
Targeted dual-mode imaging and phototherapy of tumors using ICG-loaded multifunctional MWCNTs as a versatile platform
Authors: Hu Yong , Wang Ruizhi , Zhou Yiwei , Yu Nuo , Chen Zhigang , Gao Dongmei , Shi Xiangyang , Shen Mingwu
Published: August 2018

ICG-loaded MWCNTs can be synthesized and used as a theranostic platform for targeted dual-mode imaging and phototherapy of tumors.
Highly conductive, binary ionic liquid–solvent mixture ion gels for effective switching of electrolyte-gated transistors
Authors: Seol Kyoung Hwan , Lee Seung Ju , Cho Kyung Gook , Hong Kihyon , Lee Keun Hyung
Published: August 2018

The introduction of a solvent additive to ion gels improves switching performance of electrolyte-gated transistors.
BMSCs promote the differentiation of NSCs into oligodendrocytes via mediating Id2 and Olig expression through BMP/Smad signaling pathway
Authors: Song Peiwen , Xia Xiang , Han Tianyu , Fang Huang , Wang Ying , Dong Fulong , Zhang Renjie , Ge Peng , Shen Cailiang
Published: August 2018

Neural stem cells (NSCs) have emerged as a promising treatment for spinal cord injuries. However, the increasing expression of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in spinal cord injury lesion sites seems to have contributed to the limited oligodendroglial differentiation and the majority of the astroglial differentiation of NSCs. In the present study, we demonstrate that BMPs promote NSCs differentiation toward astrocytes and prevent them from differentiating into oligodendrocytes. This effect is accompanied by the increasing expression of Id2 and the reduction in Oilg1/2 expression. Treatment with bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) can enhance the development of oligodendrocytes in the presence of BMPs. The analysis of Id2, as well as Olig1 and Olig2 gene expression, reveals that the effect of BMPs on these gene expressions is reversed with the addition of BMSCs. In sum, these data strongly suggest that BMSCs can promote the differentiation of NSCs into oligodendrocytes through mediating Id2 and Olig1/2 expression by blocking the BMP/Smad signaling pathway.
Privacy and data security for grid‐connected home area network using Internet of Things
Authors: Manimuthu Arunmozhi , Ramesh Ramadoss
Published: August 2018

Sensors with IoT assistance provides secured communication and data integrity inside HAN. Energy reading and information flow from the smart grid, together with sensors, bring about a new perspective on energy management. This paper primarily investigates the secured data flow in HAN and assures data privacy of customers during critical and emergency operations. Data are made available in real time with minimum transit time delay. Devices are continuously monitored for vital and emergency services. This paper focuses on machine to machine data flow and packet delivery using IoT. It helps in making user's power consumption data available over the cloud and also in customised electronic devices in real‐time. This research work showcases the requirements for developing a cost‐effective IoT‐HAN connected with smart grid for energy aware routing. The advanced design scheme helps to place sensors, and control gateway in a well‐defined boundary, consuming less energy for data transfer and data processing. Data flow pattern and packet delivery rate is tested using both simulated and actual data from sensors and concentrators. The obtained results and flow pattern is evaluated using MATLAB and network simulator. The developed IoT‐HAN setup is optimally helpful in secured data exchange among different connected devices inside HAN.
Time domain inverse method based on the near field technique to solve electromagnetic interference problems: application to an AC/DC flyback converter
Authors: Zitouna Bessem , Ben Hadj Slama Jaleleddine
Published: August 2018

This study presents a time domain modelling method for sources of electromagnetic disturbance. For the identification of an equivalent model, the proposed method is based on the synchronised temporal measurements of the magnetic near field above a power electronic system. To determine the parameters of the model, the proposed methodology is combined with an optimisation method based on the genetic algorithms. Unlike the classical approaches developed in the frequency domain, the proposed method allows finding a valid equivalent model for all radiation frequencies of measured time signals. It also enables knowing the phase shift in time between the radiating sources. The proposed method is applied in order to find the equivalent radiating sources of an AC/DC flyback converter. The accuracy and precision of the proposed method are validated by the good agreement between the measured cartography of the magnetic near field and that calculated using the parameters of the developed model. Finally, the latter's parameters are used to predict the cartography of other components of the magnetic field, which will be compared with the measured cartography. The superposition of the results confirms that the identified equivalent sources can represent real sources in the studied structure.
Evaluation of bi‐directional single‐inductor multi‐input battery system with state‐of‐charge balancing control
Authors: Cao Yuan , Abu Qahouq Jaber A.
Published: August 2018

This study presents a bi‐directional single‐inductor multi‐input single‐output battery system with state‐of‐charge (SOC) balancing controller. In the discharging operation mode of the battery system, the SOC balancing between multiple batteries is achieved by adaptively modulating the multipliers of the discharging rate of each battery cell, while maintaining the output voltage regulated at the desired value by modulating the average value of duty cycle of the power converter. The SOC balancing is achieved naturally during the operation of the system without extra energy dissipation or charge transfer between the batteries. In the charging operation mode, each battery can be charged independently by using the same bi‐directional power stage. The convergence ability of the SOC balancing controller is discussed and results obtained from a proof of concept experimental prototype are presented and discussed in order to evaluate and validate the operation of the controller and system.
Simultaneous Hα and dust reverberation mapping of 3C 120: Testing the bowl-shaped torus geometry
Authors: Ramolla Michael , Haas Martin , Westhues Christian , Pozo Nuñez Francisco , Sobrino Figaredo Catalina , Blex Julia , Zetzl Matthias , Kollatschny Wolfram , Hodapp Klaus W. , Chini Rolf , Murphy Miguel
Published: August 2018

We monitored the Seyfert-1 galaxy 3C 120 between September 2014 and March 2015 at the Universitätssternwarte Bochum near Cerro Armazones in BVRIJK and a narrowband filter covering the redshifted Hα line. In addition we obtained a single contemporary spectrum with the spectrograph FAST at Mt. Hopkins. Compared to earlier epochs 3C 120 is about a factor of three brighter, allowing us to study the shape of the broad line region (BLR) and the dust torus in a high luminosity phase. The analysis of the light curves yields that the dust echo is rather sharp and symmetric in contrast to the more complex broad Hα BLR echo. We investigated how far this supports an optically thick bowl-shaped BLR and dust torus geometry. The comparison with several parameterizations of these models supports the following geometry: The BLR clouds lie inside the bowl closely above the bowl rim up to a halfcovering angle 0° < θ <  40° (measured against the equatorial plane). Then the BLR is spread over many isodelay surfaces, yielding a smeared and structured echo as observed. Furthermore, if the BLR clouds shield the bottom of the bowl rim against radiation from the nucleus, the hot dust emission comes essentially from the top edge of the bowl (40° < θ <  45°). Then, for small inclinations as for 3C120, the top dust edge forms a ring that largely coincides with a narrow range of isodelay surfaces, yielding the observed sharp dust echo. The scale height of the BLR increases with radial distance from the black hole (BH). This leads to luminosity dependent foreshortening effects of the lag. We discuss the implications and possible corrections of the foreshortening for the BH mass determination and consequences for the lag (size)–luminosity relationships and the difference from interferometric torus sizes.
Updated astrometry and masses of the LUH 16 brown dwarf binary
Authors: Lazorenko P. F. , Sahlmann J.
Published: August 2018

The nearest known binary brown dwarf WISE J104915.57–531906.1AB (LUH 16) is a well-studied benchmark for our understanding of substellar objects. Previously published astrometry of LUH 16 obtained with FORS2 on the Very Large Telescope was affected by errors that limited its use in combination with other datasets, thereby hampering the determination of its accurate orbital parameters and masses. We improve upon the calibration and analysis of the FORS2 astrometry with the help of Gaia DR2 to generate a high-precision dataset that can be combined with present and future LUH 16 astrometry. We demonstrate its use by combining it with available measurements from the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) and Gemini/GeMS and deriving updated orbital and mass parameters. Using Gaia DR2 as astrometric reference field, we derived the absolute proper motion and updated the absolute parallax of the binary to 501.557 ± 0.082 mas. We refined the individual dynamical masses of LUH 16 to 33.5 ± 0.3 M
Jup (component A) and 28.6 ± 0.3 M
Jup (component B), which corresponds to a relative precision of ∼1% and is three to four times more precise than previous estimates. We found that these masses show a weak dependence on one datapoint extracted from a photographic plate from 1984. The exact determination of a residual mass bias, if any, will be possible when more high-precision data can be incorporated in the analysis.
Broad-line region structure and line profile variations in the changing look AGN HE 1136-2304
Authors: Kollatschny W. , Ochmann M. W. , Zetzl M. , Haas M. , Chelouche D. , Kaspi S. , Pozo Nuñez F. , Grupe D.
Published: August 2018

Aims. A strong X-ray outburst was detected in HE 1136-2304 in 2014. Accompanying optical spectra revealed that the spectral type has changed from a nearly Seyfert 2 type (1.95), classified by spectra taken 10 and 20 years ago, to a Seyfert 1.5 in our most recent observations. We seek to investigate a detailed spectroscopic campaign on the spectroscopic properties and spectral variability behavior of this changing look AGN and compare this to other variable Seyfert galaxies.

Methods. We carried out a detailed spectroscopic variability campaign of HE 1136-2304 with the 10 m Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) between 2014 December and 2015 July.

Results. The broad-line region (BLR) of HE 1136-2304 is stratified with respect to the distance of the line-emitting regions. The integrated emission line intensities of Hα, Hβ, He I λ5876, and He II λ4686 originate at distances of 15.0−3.8+4.2, 7.5−5.7+4.6, 7.3−4.4+2.8, and 3.0−3.7+5.3 light days with respect to the optical continuum at 4570 Å. The variability amplitudes of the integrated emission lines are a function of distance to the ionizing continuum source as well. We derived a central black hole mass of 3.8 ± 3.1 × 107 M⊙ based on the linewidths and distances of the BLR. The outer line wings of all BLR lines respond much faster to continuum variations indicating a Keplerian disk component for the BLR. The response in the outer wings is about two light days shorter than the response of the adjacent continuum flux with respect to the ionizing continuum flux. The vertical BLR structure in HE 1136-2304 confirms a general trend that the emission lines of narrow line active galactic nuclei (AGNs) originate at larger distances from the midplane in comparison to AGNs showing broader emission lines. Otherwise, the variability behavior of this changing look AGN is similar to that of other AGN.
Phenolic composition and total antioxidant capacity analysis of red wine vinegars commercialized in Portuguese market
Authors: Cruz Miguel , Correia Ana C. , Gonçalves Fernando J. , Jordão António M.
Published: August 2018

In the last years, there has been an increase in consumption of wine vinegars in Portugal. Thus, the aim of this work was to evaluate the phenolic composition and total antioxidant capacity from several commercial red wine vinegars commercialized in Portuguese market. Several parameters were evaluated: general phenolic composition, chromatic characteristics, individual anthocyanins and phenolic acids by HPLC, and total antioxidant capacity by two methodologies (DPPH and ABTS). For the different parameters analyzed, the red wine vinegars samples studied differed significantly. Vinegars with higher phenolic content tend to have lower lightness, but higher values of the red component color. High diversity of anthocyanins was detected, with some of the vinegars being distinguished by having significantly higher values of anthocyanins compared to the others, as was detected for the generality of the other phenolic parameters. The total antioxidant capacity was positively correlated with the different phenolic parameters. Finally, higher total antioxidant capacity was detected for the phenolic fraction containing anthocyanins and polymeric proanthocyanidins. The results obtained confirm that red wine vinegars are good sources of phenolic compounds and antioxidants. However, there is a great diversity of values for the various red wine vinegars commercialized in the Portuguese market.
Environmental policy commitment of North Sumatera provincial government in climate change mitigation efforts (case study of mangrove protection)
Authors: Sipayung Antonio Marro , Sitorus dan Henri
Published: August 2018

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the policy commitment of North Sumatera provincial government in mitigating climate change (case study of mangrove protection). The Regional Action Plan for Greenhouse Gas (RAD-GRK) has been adopted in 2012 by the Province of North Sumatra. The action plan identifies action needed to rehabilitate mangroveswithin or outside of forest conservation areas. The action plan aimed for reforestation of 50,000 ha mangroves areas. However, data showed that by 2017 the North Sumatra government has only been able to rehabilitate 4,765 Ha of mangrove forest. On the other hand, mangroves conversion to non forest land continues including conversion to oil palm plantations in Langkat District. Based on the qualitative data of interview with policy makers at the Provincial of North Sumatera and document analysis particularly from the government agencies, the research discovers that the policy commitment of the local government for mangroves protection is weak.
Smallholders’ willingness to pay for dura marking oil palm seeds
Authors: Chalil Diana , Basyuni Mohammad , Barus Riantri , Putri Lollie AP
Published: August 2018

In 2018, around 4 million ha of oil palm smallholdings need to be replanted. Indonesia could utilize this moment to improve smallholdings’ productivity by ensuring the usage of good quality seeds. For the industry, Dura is considered as bad seeds as its thick shells can damage the machine and the oil content is low. Therefore, most mills do not want to buy it, hence the selling price is low. In fact, most smallholdings’ use uncertified seedlings that include many contaminated Dura. Unfortunately, smallholders can only detect this 3 years after the planting and spending a considerable amount of production costs. Actually, to avoid the unnecessary loss a Dura marking technique can be applied to the oil palm seeds. However, most smallholders are unlikely consider Dura usage as an important issue due to the higher weight and higher sales revenue. This study is conducted to analyse smallholders’ willingness to pay (WTP) for seed marking service. Data is collected from 60 independent smallholders in Labuhan Batu Utara, which mostly use the uncertified seedlings. The willingness to pay is measured with Conjectural Variations Approach, revealing 71% of the respondents are willing to pay the Dura seed marking service, although still with a minimum level of WTP. Pearson Chi Square Correlation Test shows that the WTP for Dura Marking Service is only significantly correlated with the smallholders’ knowledge and perception, but not with their land size and experience. Based on the results, a number of policy implication are included.
Jakarta Bay reclamation policy: an analysis of political ecology
Authors: Mutia Elok Faiqotul , Asteria Donna
Published: August 2018

The Jakarta Bay reclamation policy is an issue that is currently a public debate. This debate is strengthened by environmental issues, the marginalization of certain groups, the regulation of authority and also corruption in the Jakarta Bay Reclamation project. Some central and provincial government institutions take different stances on the issue. The first objective of this research is to analyse environmental policy in reclamation of Jakarta Bay with the approach of political ecology. This research uses a qualitative approach. The data were obtained from in-depth interviews with stakeholders involved in the policy making of the Jakarta Bay reclamation environment and the literature study. This study concludes that the Jakarta Bay reclamation policy creates a conflict between the central and provincial governments. This is due to the overlapping regulation of Jakarta Bay reclamation authority as well as differences in attitude and interests among stakeholders. In the approach of political ecology, the Jakarta Bay reclamation policy has failed to accommodate the three interests, are social, economic and environmental interests. The conflicts that occur also cause an omission that not only harms the economy, but worsens the social and economic impact.
Palm oil sustainability partnership: implementation and connection with farmers income
Authors: Hamid Ernawati , Fathoni Zakky , Yanita Mirawati
Published: August 2018

Partnership is a business strategy that performed by two or more parties in a certain period to obtain the benefits together with the principle of mutual need and mutual rearing. The study aims to observe and assess the implementation of the oil palm agribusiness partnerships and analyze the level of farmers’ income. This research used a survey method. Descriptive analysis is used in data analysis, to provide an overview of the implementation of partnerships applied by oil palm plantation companies in Jambi Province. The results showed that agribusiness partnerships that implemented by the palm oil company basically has managed to create independent farmers who can canalize the aspirations of farmers, both in KKPA and PIR Trans pattern. Empirically, the maximum value and benefit aspects of process management partnerships as an indicator of the level of performance partnerships oil palm plantation companies in Jambi Province is quite high, has reached 82.5%. But these facts have not been fully supported by a partnership of cooperation actors, in the sense that the level of achievement of the implementation aspects of the value of partnership firm activities and performance of oil palm plantations has reached approximately 71%
The prevention of child trafficking crimes and its legal reform
Authors: Yosepin Simbolon Nanci , Ablisar Madyasah
Published: August 2018

The news about human trafficking especially children in Indonesia is increasing both domestically and across borders. The crime also includes in the form of labor smuggling, immigrant smuggling, slave trade, women and children. One of the most serious and very complex issues is the impact it has on and directly related to the child’s fate. In 2016, the Ministry of Women Empowerment and Child Protection reported, there were 943 victims of human trafficking reported in 65 the media. Separately, the Indonesian Child Protection Commission officially identifies 307 child trafficking victims. It remains unclear whether these two processes lead to an investigation or provision of protection to victims. This research uses normative research method to find out the prevention of child trafficking crime and form of legal renewal about child trafficking. This study states that the prevention of child trafficking victims is by prevention, prosecution to traffickers, and protection measures against victims. In addition, there needs to be a renewal of criminal law which should also focus on the protection of victims of trafficking in persons so as to provide opportunities for victims to gain their rights.
A cointegration analysis of crude palm oil price in Thailand
Authors: Songsiengchai Patchaya , Sidique Shaufique F. , Djama Marcel , Azman-Saini W.N.W.
Published: August 2018

Reliazing the pass-through effects of global commodity prices on domestic prices, this study develops a vector error correction model (VECM) to test for the determinants and direction of causality between global prices and crude palm oil (CPO) price in Thailand. Malaysian crude palm oil, world soybean oil and world crude oil prices were investigated as factors affecting the Thai CPO price. Using the Johansen cointegration test, the result unveils a presence of long-run relationship among the determinants. This long-run relationship, proposes that CPO price flows in Thailand are positively influenced by the Malaysian CPO price and the error correction term suggests that approximately 35 percent of total disequilibrium in Thai CPO price was corrected in the following month. Moreover, the findings show Granger causality from each of the Malaysian CPO price and the world soybean oil price for the Thai CPO price. Information flow regarding the price movements of the Malaysian CPO and soybean oil affect the Thai CPO price and vice-versa. Whereas, the evidence for a causal relationship that runs from the world crude oil price to the Thai CPO price is found, but not in reverse.
Utilizing local microorganisms with different dosages and duration of fermentation towards digestibility and rumen activity of oil palm frond in vitro
Authors: Mulianda Randi , Tafsin Ma’ruf , Hanafi Nevy Diana , dan Yulinas
Published: August 2018

This research entitles “utilizing local microorganism with different dosages and duration of fermentation process towards digestibility and rumen activity of oil palm frond in vitro” has been done with purpose to know the effect of fermented feed processing technology towards digestion value and fermentability in vitro. The design used in the research was the factorial completely randomized design. The research results showed that the utilization of MOL with can significantly (P<0.05) improve digestibility and rumen activity in vitro where be indicated by increasing of DMD, OMD, and VFA total, N ammonia of rumen fluid in vitro, while duration fermentation had no significant effect (P>0.05) on OMD, and VFA total, N ammonia of rumen fluid in vitro. Application of MOL at the level 0,6% with duration of fermentation 7 days show the efficient treatment to increase quality of oil palm frond.
Hypothetic impact of chemical bonding on the moisture resistance of amorphous SixNyHz by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Cazako Catheline , Inal Karim , Burr Alain , Georgi Frederic , Cauro Rodolphe
Published: August 2018

The relationship between the microstructure of silicon nitride and its sensitivity to moisture was studied. The effectiveness of Si-H rich and N-H rich silicon nitride layers was measured under attack from water in vapor and liquid states. For water vapor attack, samples are exposed to vapor at 85 °C with a relative humidity of 85% during 1600 hours; for liquid water attack, samples are dipped in water at 60, 85 and 100 °C for 200 hours. The water resistance of the Si-H rich and N-H rich silicon nitride layers was evaluated by measuring: (i) the thickness of the silicon dioxide formed after their oxidation with water vapor, (ii) the rate of dissolution of the silicon nitride in liquid water and (iii) the corresponding activation of energy. This evaluation was performed by coupling spectroscopic ellipsometry, infra-red and X-ray photoelectron spectrometry analyses. The results revealed that for Si-H rich layer, 10 nm of silicon dioxide was formed during the water vapor attack; for liquid water attack, a high activation energy (0.88 eV) and a low dissolution rate were observed regardless of the water temperature. For N-H rich layers, approximatively 6–8 nm of silicon dioxide was formed and a low activation energy (0.64 eV) with a high dissolution rate were observed. All of these observations lead to the conclusion that the N-H rich layers could be less resistant to moisture because the isoelectronic relationship between Si2N-H and −H2O+ facilitated their deterioration in water. Moreover, a higher rate of nanoporosity for N-H rich layers than Si-H rich layer could complete this hypothesis.
Evaluation of a New Exercise Program in the Treatment of Scapular Dyskinesis
Authors: Nowotny Joerg , Kasten Philip , Kopkow Christian , Biewener Achim , Mauch Frieder
Published: August 2018

An abnormal motion of the scapula, or scapular dyskinesis (SD), can be effectively treated through conservative therapy. The aim of this study is to evaluate a new specific exercise program to restore normal position. A standardized and specific exercise program was created. In a prospective multi-center approach, patients were randomized into two groups: one group received the specific exercise program over a period of six weeks and the controls received massage therapy. The visual-analog scale, QuickDASH score, SICK scapula rating scale, hand press-up position test, lateral scapular slide test and internal rotation of the shoulder were evaluated. Twenty-eight patients were included in the study: fifteen in the exercise group and thirteen in the control group. Pain levels on the visual analog scale (VAS) were significantly reduced in both groups (exercise p=0.007; control p=0.004). The scores for QuickDASH (p=0.001), SICK scapula rating scale (p=0.003) and hand press-up position test (p=0.026) were significantly improved in the exercise group only. Scapula-focused exercise programs, as well as massage therapy, can effectively relieve pain in patients with SD. However, scapula-focused exercises resulted, specifically, in greater improvement of shoulder function.
Moderne Antidiabetika in der Diabetologie
Authors: Gallwitz Baptist
Published: August 2018

Neue Antidiabetika zur Therapie des Typ-2-Diabetes umfassen die inkretinbasierten Therapien mit DPP-4-Inhibitoren (DPP-4i) und GLP-1-Rezeptoragonisten (GLP-1-RA) sowie die SGLT-2-Inhibitoren (SGLT-2i). In diesem Artikel werden die einzelnen Substanzklassen bezüglich ihres Wirkmechanismus vorgestellt. Die derzeitige Datenlage zur kardiovaskulären Sicherheit der einzelnen Medikamente wird dargelegt und es wird der dadurch begründete leitliniengerechte Einsatz dieser Medikamente bei Typ-2-Diabetes aufgezeigt. Sie haben vor allem als Zweitlinientherapie in Kombination mit Metformin einen wichtigen Stellenwert, zunehmend aber auch in Mehrfachkombinationen. DPP-4i sind sicher, haben kein Hypoglykämierisiko und sind gewichtsneutral. Alle GLP-1-RA sind auch sicher (Liraglutid und Semaglutid überlegen), bei hohem kardiovaskulären Risiko sind der SGLT-2i Empagliflozin oder der GLP-1-RA Liraglutid durch Reduktion kardiovaskulärer Ereignisse und Gesamtletalität vorteilhaft.
Influence of Time to Surgery in Ankle Fractures on the Rate of Complications and Length of Stay – a Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Burchard Rene , Hamidy Karacan , Pahlkötter Anke , Soost Christian , Palm Michael , Graw Jan , Bouillon Bertil
Published: August 2018

Hintergrund Mit einer Inzidenz von 9/1000 pro Jahr ist die Malleolarfraktur des oberen Sprunggelenkes eine der häufigsten Frakturen des menschlichen Skeletts. Häufig stellt sich die Frage, ob der Zeitpunkt einer operativen Maßnahme Einfluss auf die Komplikationsrate oder die Krankenhausverweildauer ausübt oder ob andere Patientencharakteristika oder Komorbiditäten darauf Einfluss nehmen.

Material und Methoden Aufgrund der bisher sehr heterogenen Datenlage im Hinblick auf den optimalen Operationszeitpunkt bei Malleolarfrakturen erfolgte in der vorliegenden Arbeit eine multivariate Regressionsanalyse im Rahmen einer retrospektiven Kohortenstudie (n = 421).

Ergebnisse In der multivariaten Regressionsanalyse zeigten sich keine Vorteile einer primären operativen Versorgung innerhalb von 6 Stunden gegenüber der sekundären Therapie nach ca. 1 Woche im Hinblick auf die lokale postoperative Komplikationsrate oder die Krankenhausverweildauer. Ein höheres Patientenalter bzw. ein begleitender Weichteilschaden höheren Grades waren mit einer verlängerten Krankenhausverweildauer assoziiert.

Schlussfolgerung Diese aktuelle Auswertung eines 5-Jahres-Zeitraums zeigt, dass die Wahrscheinlichkeit des Auftretens einer schwerwiegenden lokalen Komplikation nach operativer Versorgung einer Malleolarfraktur weder vom OP-Zeitpunkt noch von weiteren Kovariablen wie dem Alter oder von Komorbiditäten des Patienten beeinflusst wird. Die Empfehlung der primären Versorgung innerhalb von 6 – 8 Stunden entsprechend der aktuellen S2-Leitlinie „Sprunggelenkfraktur“ sollte nach den Ergebnissen der vorliegenden Studie in einer prospektiv randomisierten Untersuchung reevaluiert werden.