bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demanda y provisión de trasporte público en Ciudad Obregón, Sonora
Authors: Rodríguez Gámez Liz Ileana
Published: January 2017

Desde hace un par de años, los sistemas de trasporte público enfrentan una crisis que se ha traducido en una disminución de la calidad del servicio y en la degradación o reducción de la flota, por ello algunas ciudades afrontan problemas serios de demanda que exceden la capacidad de dichos sistemas. Uno de los principales obstáculos para hacer frente a esta problemática es la falta de información sobre los patrones de movilidad de los residentes. Por ello, el objetivo de este trabajo es cuantificar el volumen de viajes y derivar la demanda potencial de trasporte público en Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, a fin de proporcionar datos básicos para su planificación y provisión. La metodología emplea un sistema de información geográfica, con información secundaria para determinar las necesidades de movilidad, a partir de la estructura familiar, sus actividades cotidianas y la accesibilidad a los modos de trasportación públicos y privados.
Organizaciones, redes y desarrollo económico en ciudades medias: el caso de Bahía Blanca, Argentina
Authors: Diez José Ignacio
Published: January 2017

En las últimas décadas, las ciudades medias han recuperado su protagonismo en los sistemas urbanos, tanto en la bibliografía científica como en las estrategias de ordenamiento y desarrollo territorial a escala internacional. Como sucedió en la década de 1960, dichas localidades están adquiriendo preponderancia como componentes destacados de las políticas de desarrollo regional, al incorporarse como actores clave en las posibilidades de despegue industrial de territorios periféricos. Entre los instrumentos tendientes a promover su crecimiento y consolidación, la literatura especializada destaca la conformación de redes institucionales, como un elemento capaz de incentivar la innovación y el cambio tecnológico. En este sentido, se sostiene que en las ciudades medias más exitosas en el mundo, la existencia de un tejido institucional denso y complejo ha sido determinante para garantizar una competitividad de base territorial adecuada. El presente trabajo pretende analizar la dinámica de funcionamiento de la red de organizaciones de apoyo a la producción de Bahía Blanca, Argentina, con el propósito de entender en qué medida mejora las condiciones de competencia y desarrollo del territorio.
Los inicios de la salud pública en Baja California, México, y California, Estados Unidos, siglos XIX y XX
Authors: Fierros Hernández Arturo
Published: January 2017

En el presente trabajo se dibuja un panorama de la frontera y de sus problemáticas sanitarias, a partir de elementos habituales de la sociedad, como el comercio y el flujo de personas. Además, permite adentrarse en el proceso de deconstrucción de la frontera entre California y el Distrito Norte de la Baja California (actual Baja California) desde las reglamentaciones sanitarias en la zona, a través de la modernización de las ciudades colindantes que se formaron en ella.
Empleo en el sector terciario. Una estimación espacial para los municipios de la región centro de México, 1999-2009
Authors: De Jesús Almonte Leobardo , Carbajal Suárez Yolanda
Published: January 2017

El objetivo es identificar un patrón de aglomeración en la división espacial del empleo en el sector servicios entre los municipios de la región centro de México. Con el método de la econometría espacial, se estimó un modelo de error espacial para el sector terciario. Según los resultados, la elasticidad ingreso del empleo es baja, el peso de las unidades económicas es importante y hay poca sensibilidad al incremento en las remuneraciones. A pesar de que el análisis exploratorio, a partir de Índice de Moran, sugiere efectos de autocorrelación espacial del empleo en la región de estudio, esto no se puede confirmar con suficiente robustez a partir de los resultados de la estimación de un modelo de error espacial. Aunque esta técnica no es novedosa, en México hay pocos trabajos aplicados al empleo en el sector terciario. El parámetro autorregresivo espacial del término de error l aporta evidencia de que existe una asociación espacial local del empleo, más que una global. Se concluye que en el sector terciario, la vecindad espacial entre los municipios de mayor dinamismo ha generado más crecimiento y aglomeración, que en el resto de ellos.
Vulnerabilidad, trabajo y salud en mujeres de la tercera edad en Ameca, Jalisco
Authors: Navarro Ochoa Angélica
Published: January 2017

En esta investigación se analizan las condiciones de vida de los adultos mayores, en especial de las mujeres en Ameca, Jalisco, México. Examinar su situación, desde un enfoque de género, permite mostrar la complejidad de las relaciones que construyen para enfrentar la desigualdad, el empobrecimiento y una mayor vulnerabilidad, en comparación con los hombres. El estudio es cualitativo, aunque no se descartó el análisis cuantitativo. A partir de entrevistas a profundidad, se reconstruyen experiencias de algunas adultas mayores que enfrentan desamparo, incapacidad o maltrato, y que tienen que trabajar para sobrevivir. Este trabajo contribuye a visibilizar la situación riesgosa y vulnerable de esta población, y los resultados muestran que existe una relación entre sus padecimientos y el exceso de trabajo físico que realiza. Por tanto, la condición de vida de los ancianos es vulnerable, debido a circunstancias familiares, culturales y económicas, que se reflejan en pobreza, abandono y marginalidad.
TINGKAT KETAHANAN PANGAN PADA RUMAHTANGGA YANG DIKEPALAI PRIA DAN RUMAHTANGGA YANG DIKEPALAI WANITA
Authors: Yulyanti Fathonah Tri , W. Prasodjo Nuraini
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this research was to determine the level of food security in both types of households, namely male headed households (RTKP) and female headed households (RTKW). The objective of this research are male headed households (RTKP) and female headed households (RTKW) ) in Jembatan Serong Community. The research methode uses a quantitative approach to survai research that is supported by qualitative data. The respondents were selected by applying simple random sampling technique. The results of this study showed that households in Jembatan Serong Community belong to the category of food security and food security inequality do not occur in RTKP and RTKW. Based on cross tabulation, the education of food administrators of RTKP and RTKW associated with the level of food security and income levels RTKP and RTKW associated with the level of food security
Komodifikasi Upacara Tradisional Seren Taun dalam Pembentukan Identitas Komunitas
Authors: Untung Prasetyo Untung , Sarwoprasodjo Sarwititi
Published: January 2017

This study is focused on the correlation of commodification the Seren Taun traditional ceremony within the form a community identity of Kampung Budaya Sindangbarang. The objective of the study was to determine 1) to what extent is the correlation between commodification the Seren Taun traditional ceremony and its motive of to implement the Seren Taun traditional ceremony, and 2) to what extent is the correlation between motive of to implement the Seren Taun traditional ceremony and its behavior of to implement of the Seren Taun traditional ceremony within the form a community identity of Kampung Budaya Sindangbarang. The reaserch showed that commodification the Seren Taun traditional ceremony was related to the form a community identity of Kampung Budaya Sindangbarang. The lower was commodification the Seren Taun traditional ceremony, then the higher was the form a community identity of Kampung Budaya Sindangbarang.The reaserch explained that community of Kampung Budaya Sindangbarang is consistent to look the Seren Taun traditional ceremony as their facility to describe about thanks be to God, to construction a community solidarity, to keep a community institutional, and to keep Sunda traditional art.
ANALISIS GENDER TERHADAP TINGKAT KEBERHASILAN PELAKSANAAN CSR BIDANG PEMBERDAYAAN EKONOMI LOKAL PT HOLCIM INDONESIA Tbk
Authors: Luciani Prastiwi Debbie , Sumarti Titik
Published: January 2017

Baitul Maal wa Tamwil (BMT) Swadaya Pribumi is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of local economic empowerment by PT Holcim Indonesia Tbk. Gender analysis is used as an analysis tools to see the success rate of BMT Swadaya Pribumi from a gender perspective by understanding the roles (division of labour) in the household, access, control to get resources (credit, training, and mentoring efforts), and the benefits for participants. Quantitatively, BMT is successful and it has considerd gender practical and strategic gender needs are different between the participants of women and men
DAMPAK SOSIAL-EKONOMI MASUKNYA PENGARUH INTERNET DALAM KEHIDUPAN REMAJA DI PEDESAAN
Authors: Ekasari Putri , Hadi Dharmawan Arya
Published: January 2017

The study was done in two village, they are Cibatok I Village and Pangradin Village, The Bogor District of West Java, Indonesia. The purposes of this study were 1) to analyse and determine the impacts of the use of internet in teenagers characteristics to internet usage pattern in two villages 2) to analyze the socio-economic impact brought by internet usage pattern of teenagers in two villages. This study was approached by using quantitative method supported by qualitative method. Data obtained through observation, depth interviews and interviews using questionnaires. Meanwhile, the results of this study showed 1) The differences of internet usage pattern in the two villages 2) The availability of internet access in Cibatok I Village have made impacts to the socio-economic changes of teenagers life. Meanwhile, it is not clearly seen in teenagers live at Pangradin Village
Optimization of cutting parameters for surface roughness in turning of studs manufactured from AISI 5140 steel using the Taguchi method
Authors: Kahraman Funda
Published: January 2017

This study focuses on optimizing cutting parameters based on the Taguchi method to minimize surface roughness in turning of studs manufactured from AISI 5140 steel. The Taguchi method, which is a powerful tool for designing optimized quality, is used to find the optimum surface roughness in turning operations. Rotational speed, feed rate and depth of cut were considered as control factors for the surface roughness, and L9 orthogonal array was determined for experiment trials. An orthogonal array, a signal-to-noise ratio, and an analysis of variance were employed to investigate the surface roughness characteristics of AISI 5140 steel. Minimum surface roughness was obtained at 2000 rpm rotational speed, 0.2 mm × rev−1 feed rate and 0.5 mm depth of cut. Optimal surface roughness was calculated as 1.70 μm by using optimal level of design parameters. Confirmation test showed that Taguchi method can be used precisely for optimizing the cutting parameters in turning of AISI 5140 steel. Through this study, it is possible to not only obtained the optimum surface roughness for turning operations, but also the main cutting parameters affecting the performance of turning operations. The developed model can be used in the metal machining industries in order to determine the optimum cutting parameters for minimum surface roughness.
Elite Opposition-Based Social Spider Optimization Algorithm for Global Function Optimization
Authors: Zhao Ruxin , Luo Qifang , Zhou Yongquan
Published: January 2017

The Social Spider Optimization algorithm (SSO) is a novel metaheuristic optimization algorithm. To enhance the convergence speed and computational accuracy of the algorithm, in this paper, an elite opposition-based Social Spider Optimization algorithm (EOSSO) is proposed; we use an elite opposition-based learning strategy to enhance the convergence speed and computational accuracy of the SSO algorithm. The 23 benchmark functions are tested, and the results show that the proposed elite opposition-based Social Spider Optimization algorithm is able to obtain an accurate solution, and it also has a fast convergence speed and a high degree of stability.
A Generalized Unbiased Control Strategy for Radial Magnetic Bearings
Authors: Meeker David
Published: January 2017

The present work extends a method of unbiased control originally developed for three-pole radial magnetic bearings into a generalized unbiased control strategy that encompasses bearings with an arbitrary number of poles. By allowing the control of bearings with more than three poles, the applicability of the approach is broadened to the case of large rotors. Other ramifications of this generalized unbiased control strategy are fault tolerant unbiased bearings, control of bearings with more than three poles using 3-phase drives, and a novel approach to the unbiased control of eight-pole magnetic bearings.
Biochar for Horticultural Rooting Media Improvement: Evaluation of Biochar from Gasification and Slow Pyrolysis
Authors: Blok Chris , Van der Salm Caroline , Hofland-Zijlstra Jantineke , Streminska Marta , Eveleens Barbara , Regelink Inge , Fryda Lydia , Visser Rianne
Published: January 2017

Peat is used as rooting medium in greenhouse horticulture. Biochar is a sustainable alternative for the use of peat, which will reduce peat derived carbon dioxide emissions. Biochar in potting soil mixtures allegedly increases water storage, nutrient supply, microbial life and disease suppression but this depends on feedstock and the production process. The aim of this paper is to find combinations of feedstock and production circumstances which will deliver biochars with value for the horticultural end user. Low-temperature (600 °C–750 °C) gasification was used for combined energy and biochar generation. Biochars produced were screened in laboratory tests and selected biochars were used in plant experiments. Tests included dry bulk density, total pore space, specific surface area, phytotoxicity, pH, EC, moisture characteristics and microbial stability. We conclude that biochars from nutrient-rich feedstocks are too saline and too alkaline to be applied in horticultural rooting media. Biochars from less nutrient-rich feedstocks can be conveniently neutralized by mixing with acid peat. The influence of production parameters on specific surface area, pH, total pore space and toxicity is discussed. Biochar mildly improved the survival of beneficial micro-organisms in a mix with peat. Overall, wood biochar can replace at least 20% v/v of peat in potting soils without affecting plant growth.
Circulating Nucleosomes and Nucleosome Modifications as Biomarkers in Cancer
Authors: McAnena Peter , Brown James , Kerin Michael
Published: January 2017

Traditionally the stratification of many cancers involves combining tumour and clinicopathological features (e.g., patient age; tumour size, grade, receptor status and location) to inform treatment options and predict recurrence risk and survival. However, current biomarkers often require invasive excision of the tumour for profiling, do not allow monitoring of the response to treatment and stratify patients into broad heterogeneous groups leading to inconsistent treatment responses. Here we explore and describe the benefits of using circulating biomarkers (nucleosomes and/or modifications to nucleosomes) as a non-invasive method for detecting cancer and monitoring response to treatment. Nucleosomes (DNA wound around eight core histone proteins) are responsible for compacting our genome and their composition and post-translational modifications are responsible for regulating gene expression. Here, we focus on breast and colorectal cancer as examples where utilizing circulating nucleosomes as biomarkers hold real potential as liquid biopsies. Utilizing circulating nucleosomes as biomarkers is an exciting new area of research that promises to allow both the early detection of cancer and monitoring of treatment response. Nucleosome-based biomarkers combine with current biomarkers, increasing both specificity and sensitivity of current tests and have the potential to provide individualised precision-medicine based treatments for patients.
Plant Extract Mediated Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Pd@Graphene Nanocatalyst: An Efficient and Reusable Catalyst for the Suzuki-Miyaura Coupling
Authors: Khan Mujeeb , Kuniyil Mufsir , Shaik Mohammed , Khan Merajuddin , Adil Syed , Al-Warthan Abdulrahman , Alkhathlan Hamad , Tremel Wolfgang , Tahir Muhammad , Siddiqui Mohammed
Published: January 2017

Suzuki-Miyaura coupling reaction catalyzed by the palladium (Pd)-based nanomaterials is one of the most versatile methods for the preparation of biaryls. However, use of organic solvents as reaction medium causes a big threat to environment due to the generation of toxic byproducts as waste during the work up of these reactions. Therefore, the use of water as reaction media has attracted tremendous attention due to its environmental, economic, and safety benefits. In this study, we report on the synthesis of green Pd@graphene nanocatalyst based on an in situ functionalization approach which exhibited excellent catalytic activity towards the Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions of phenyl halides with phenyl boronic acids under facile conditions in water. The green and environmentally friendly synthesis of Pd@graphene nanocatalyst (PG-HRG-Pd) is carried out by simultaneous reduction of graphene oxide (GRO) and PdCl2 using Pulicaria glutinosa extract (PGE) as reducing and stabilizing agent. The phytomolecules present in the plant extract (PE) not only facilitated the reduction of PdCl2, but also helped to stabilize the surface of PG-HRG-Pd nanocatalyst, which significantly enhanced the dispersibility of nanocatalyst in water. The identification of PG-HRG-Pd was established by various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques, including, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and Raman spectroscopy. The as-prepared PG-HRG-Pd nanocatalyst demonstrated excellent catalytic activity towards the Suzuki-Miyaura cross coupling reactions under aqueous, ligand free, and aerobic conditions. Apart from this the reusability of the catalyst was also evaluated and the catalyst yielded excellent results upon reuse for several times with marginal loss of its catalytic performance. Therefore, the method developed for the green synthesis of PG-HRG-Pd nanocatalyst and the eco-friendly protocol used for the Suzuki coupling offers a mild and effective substitute to the existing protocols and may significantly contribute to the endeavors of green chemistry.
New Acetylenic Amine Derivatives of 5,8-Quinolinediones: Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Antiproliferative Activity
Authors: Kadela-Tomanek Monika , Jastrzębska Maria , Bębenek Ewa , Chrobak Elwira , Latocha Małgorzata , Kusz Joachim , Tarnawska Dorota , Boryczka Stanisław
Published: January 2017

Acetylenic amine derivatives of the 5,8-quinolinedione were synthesized and characterized by the 1H and 13C NMR, IR spectroscopy and MS spectra. Additionally, the 6- and 7-substituted allylamine-5,8-quinolinediones were synthesized for comparison purposes. The crystal structure was determined for the 6-chloro-7-propargylamine-5,8-quinolinedione and 7-chloro-6-propargylamine-5,8-quinolinedione. Additionally, the IR spectral analysis supplemented by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out. It was found that different positions of the propargylamine side chain had a distinct influence on crystal structure, formation of H-bonds and the carbonyl stretching IR bands. Correlation between the frequency separation Δν of the carbonyl IR bands and the position of the 6- and 7-substituents was found. The 7-substituted derivatives exhibited a higher frequency separation Δν. The observed correlation could provide an opportunity to use the IR spectroscopy to study substitution reactions. Cytotoxic activities against three human cancer cell lines for the 5,8-quinolinedione derivatives with different amine substituents, i.e., propargylamine, N-methylpropargylamine, 1,1-dimethylpropargylamine, allylamine and propylamine were also analysed with respect to their molecular structure.
Implementation of Point-of-Care Diagnostics in Rural Primary Healthcare Clinics in South Africa: Perspectives of Key Stakeholders
Authors: Mashamba-Thompson Tivani , Jama Ngcwalisa , Sartorius Benn , Drain Paul , Thompson Rowan
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Key stakeholders’ involvement is crucial to the sustainability of quality point-of-care (POC) diagnostics services in low-and-middle income countries. The aim of this study was to explore key stakeholder perceptions on the implementation of POC diagnostics in rural primary healthcare (PHC) clinics in South Africa. Method: We conducted a qualitative study encompassing in-depth interviews with multiple key stakeholders of POC diagnostic services for rural and resource-limited PHC clinics. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim prior to thematic content analysis. Thematic content analysis was conducted using themes guided by the World Health Organisation (WHO) quality-ASSURED (Affordable, Sensitive, Specific, User friendly, Rapid and to enable treatment at first visit and Robust, Equipment free and Delivered to those who need it) criteria for POC diagnostic services in resource-limited settings. Results: 11 key stakeholders participated in the study. All stakeholders perceived the main advantage of POC diagnostics as enabling access to healthcare for rural patients. Stakeholders perceived the current POC diagnostic services to have an ability to meet patients’ needs, but recommended further improvement of the following areas: research on cost-effectiveness; improved quality management systems; development of affordable POC diagnostic and clinic-based monitoring and evaluation. Conclusions: Key stakeholders of POC diagnostics in rural PHC clinics in South Africa highlighted the need to assess affordability and ensure quality assurance of current services before adopting new POC diagnostics and scaling up current POC diagnostics.
Maternal Exposure to Pyrethroid Insecticides during Pregnancy and Infant Development at 18 Months of Age
Authors: Hisada Aya , Yoshinaga Jun , Zhang Jie , Katoh Takahiko , Shiraishi Hiroaki , Shimodaira Kazuhisa , Okai Takashi , Ariki Nagako , Komine Yoko , Shirakawa Miyako , Noda Yumiko , Kato Nobumasa
Published: January 2017

The possible association between maternal exposure to pyrethroid insecticides (PYRs) during pregnancy and infant development was explored. Levels of exposure to PYRs was assessed by metabolite (3-phenoybenzoic acid, 3-PBA) concentration in maternal spot urine sampled in the first trimester of index pregnancy, and infant development was assessed at 18 months of age using the Kinder Infants Development Scale (KIDS), which is based on a questionnaire to the caretaker. The relationship between KIDS score and maternal urinary 3-PBA levels was examined by a stepwise multiple regression analysis using biological attributes of the mother and infant, breast feeding, and nursing environment as covariates. The analysis extracted 3-PBA and the nursing environment as significant to explain the KIDS score at 18 months of age with positive partial regression coefficients. Inclusion of fish consumption frequency of the mother during pregnancy as an independent variable resulted in the selection of fish consumption as significant, while the two variables were marginally insignificant but still with a positive coefficient with the KIDS score. The result suggested a positive effect of maternal PYR exposure on infant development, the reason for which is not clear, but an unknown confounding factor is suspected.
The Impact of Growth Hormone Therapy on the Apoptosis Assessment in CD34+ Hematopoietic Cells from Children with Growth Hormone Deficiency
Authors: Kawa Miłosz , Stecewicz Iwona , Piecyk Katarzyna , Paczkowska Edyta , Rogińska Dorota , Sobuś Anna , Łuczkowska Karolina , Pius-Sadowska Ewa , Gawrych Elżbieta , Petriczko Elżbieta , Walczak Mieczysław , Machaliński Bogusław
Published: January 2017

Growth hormone (GH) modulates hematopoietic cell homeostasis and is associated with apoptosis control, but with limited mechanistic insights. Aim of the study was to determine whether GH therapeutic supplementation (GH-TS) could affect apoptosis of CD34+ cells enriched in hematopoietic progenitor cells of GH deficient (GHD) children. CD34+ cells from peripheral blood of 40 GHD children were collected before and in 3rd and 6th month of GH-TS and compared to 60 controls adjusted for bone age, sex, and pubertal development. Next, apoptosis assessment via different molecular techniques was performed. Finally, to comprehensively characterize apoptosis process, global gene expression profile was determined using genome-wide RNA microarray technology. Results showed that GH-TS significantly reduced spontaneous apoptosis in CD34+ cells (p < 0.01) and results obtained using different methods to detect early and late apoptosis in analyzed cells population were consistent. GH-TS was also associated with significant downregulation of several members of TNF-alpha superfamily and other genes associated with apoptosis and stress response. Moreover, the significant overexpression of cyto-protective and cell cycle-associated genes was detected. These findings suggest that recombinant human GH has a direct anti-apoptotic activity in hematopoietic CD34+ cells derived from GHD subjects in course of GH-TS.
Vibration-Assisted Sputter Coating of Cenospheres: A New Approach for Realizing Cu-Based Metal Matrix Syntactic Foams
Authors: Shishkin Andrei , Drozdova Maria , Kozlov Viktor , Hussainova Irina , Lehmhus Dirk
Published: January 2017

The coating of hollow alumino-silicate microspheres or cenospheres with thin layers of Cu by means of vibration-assisted magnetron sputtering yields a starting material with considerable potential for the production of new types of metal matrix syntactic foams as well as optimized variants of conventional materials of this kind. This study introduces the coating process and the production of macroscopic samples from the coated spheres via spark plasma sintering (SPS). The influence of processing parameters on the coating itself, and the syntactic foams are discussed in terms of the obtained density levels as a function of sintering temperature (which was varied between 850 and 1080 °C), time (0.5 to 4 min), and surface appearance before and after SPS treatment. Sintering temperatures of 900 °C and above were found to cause breaking-up of the homogeneous sputter coating into a net-like structure. This effect is attributed to wetting behavior of Cu on the alumino-silicate cenosphere shells. Cylindrical samples were subjected to conductivity measurements and mechanical tests, and the first performance characteristics are reported here. Compressive strengths for Cu-based materials in the density range of 0.90–1.50 g/cm3 were found to lie between 8.6 and 61.9 MPa, depending on sintering conditions and density. An approximate relationship between strength and density is suggested based on the well-known Gibson–Ashby law. Density-related strength of the new material is contrasted to similar findings for several types of established metal foams gathered from the literature. Besides discussing these first experimental results, this paper outlines the potential of coated microspheres as optimized filler particles in metal matrix syntactic foams, and suggests associated directions of future research.
Stepwise, Protecting Group Free Synthesis of [4]Rotaxanes
Authors: Lewis James , Winn Joby , Goldup Stephen
Published: January 2017

Despite significant advances in the last three decades towards high yielding syntheses of rotaxanes, the preparation of systems constructed from more than two components remains a challenge. Herein we build upon our previous report of an active template copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) rotaxane synthesis with a diyne in which, following the formation of the first mechanical bond, the steric bulk of the macrocycle tempers the reactivity of the second alkyne unit. We have now extended this approach to the use of 1,3,5-triethynylbenzene in order to successively prepare [2]-, [3]- and [4]rotaxanes without the need for protecting group chemistry. Whilst the first two iterations proceeded in good yield, the steric shielding that affords this selectivity also significantly reduces the efficacy of the active template (AT)-CuAAC reaction of the third alkyne towards the preparation of [4]rotaxanes, resulting in severely diminished yields.
Capparis spinosa Fruit Ethanol Extracts Exert Different Effects on the Maturation of Dendritic Cells
Authors: Hamuti Azeguli , Li Jinyu , Zhou Fangfang , Aipire Adila , Ma Ji , Yang Jianhua , Li Jinyao
Published: January 2017

Capparis spinosa L. (C. spinosa) has been used as food and traditional medicine and shows anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant activities. Here, we prepared the C. spinosa fruit ethanol extracts (CSEs) using different procedures and investigated the effects of CSE on the maturation of mouse bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (DCs) in the absence or presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). DC maturation and cytokine production were detected by flow cytometry and ELISA, respectively. We obtained three different CSEs and dissolved in water or DMSO, named CSE2W, CSEMW, CSE3W, CSE2D, CSEMD, and CSE3D, respectively. These CSEs showed different effects on DC maturation. CSEMW and CSEMD significantly increased the expressions of CD40, CD80, and CD86, in a dose-dependent manner. CSE2W and CSE2D also showed a modest effect on DC maturation, which enhanced the expression of CD40. CSE3W and CSE3D did not change DC maturation but suppressed LPS-induced DC maturation characterized by the decreased levels of CD40 and CD80. CSE3W and CSE3D also significantly inhibited the secretions of IL-12p40, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α induced by LPS. CSE3W further increased the level of IL-10 induced by LPS. Moreover, CSE3D suppressed LPS-induced DC maturation in vivo, which decreased the expressions of CD40 and CD80. These results suggested that CSE3W and CSE3D might be used to treat inflammatory diseases.
NO Exchange for a Water Molecule Favorably Changes Iontophoretic Release of Ruthenium Complexes to the Skin
Authors: De Santana Danielle , Dias Karina , Souza Joel , Ogunjimi Abayomi , Souza Marina , Silva Roberto , Lopez Renata
Published: January 2017

Ruthenium (Ru) complexes have been studied as promising anticancer agents. Ru nitrosyl complex (Ru-NO) is one which acts as a pro-drug for the release of nitric oxide (NO). The Ru-aqueous complex formed by the exchange of NO for a water molecule after NO release could also possess therapeutic effects. This study evaluates the influence of iontophoresis on enhancing the skin penetration of Ru-NO and Ru-aqueous and assesses its applicability as a tool in treating diverse skin diseases. Passive and iontophoretic (0.5 mA·cm−2) skin permeation of the complexes were performed for 4 h. The amount of Ru and NO in the stratum corneum (SC), viable epidermis (VE), and receptor solution was quantified while the influence of iontophoresis and irradiation on NO release from Ru-NO complex was also evaluated. Iontophoresis increased the amount of Ru-NO and Ru-aqueous recovered from the receptor solution by 15 and 400 times, respectively, as compared to passive permeation. Iontophoresis produced a higher accumulation of Ru-aqueous in the skin layers as compared to Ru-NO. At least 50% of Ru-NO penetrated the SC was stable after 4 h. The presence of Ru-NO in this skin layer suggests that further controlled release of NO can be achieved by photo-stimulation after iontophoresis.
Bioactive Nutrients and Nutrigenomics in Age-Related Diseases
Authors: Rescigno Tania , Micolucci Luigina , Tecce Mario , Capasso Anna
Published: January 2017

The increased life expectancy and the expansion of the elderly population are stimulating research into aging. Aging may be viewed as a multifactorial process that results from the interaction of genetic and environmental factors, which include lifestyle. Human molecular processes are influenced by physiological pathways as well as exogenous factors, which include the diet. Dietary components have substantive effects on metabolic health; for instance, bioactive molecules capable of selectively modulating specific metabolic pathways affect the development/progression of cardiovascular and neoplastic disease. As bioactive nutrients are increasingly identified, their clinical and molecular chemopreventive effects are being characterized and systematic analyses encompassing the “omics” technologies (transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics) are being conducted to explore their action. The evolving field of molecular pathological epidemiology has unique strength to investigate the effects of dietary and lifestyle exposure on clinical outcomes. The mounting body of knowledge regarding diet-related health status and disease risk is expected to lead in the near future to the development of improved diagnostic procedures and therapeutic strategies targeting processes relevant to nutrition. The state of the art of aging and nutrigenomics research and the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of bioactive nutrients on the main aging-related disorders are reviewed herein.
Development of Pharmacophore Model for Indeno[1,2-b]indoles as Human Protein Kinase CK2 Inhibitors and Database Mining
Authors: Haidar Samer , Bouaziz Zouhair , Marminon Christelle , Laitinen Tuomo , Poso Antti , Le Borgne Marc , Jose Joachim
Published: January 2017

Protein kinase CK2, initially designated as casein kinase 2, is an ubiquitously expressed serine/threonine kinase. This enzyme, implicated in many cellular processes, is highly expressed and active in many tumor cells. A large number of compounds has been developed as inhibitors comprising different backbones. Beside others, structures with an indeno[1,2-b]indole scaffold turned out to be potent new leads. With the aim of developing new inhibitors of human protein kinase CK2, we report here on the generation of common feature pharmacophore model to further explain the binding requirements for human CK2 inhibitors. Nine common chemical features of indeno[1,2-b]indole-type CK2 inhibitors were determined using MOE software (Chemical Computing Group, Montreal, Canada). This pharmacophore model was used for database mining with the aim to identify novel scaffolds for developing new potent and selective CK2 inhibitors. Using this strategy several structures were selected by searching inside the ZINC compound database. One of the selected compounds was bikaverin (6,11-dihydroxy-3,8-dimethoxy-1-methylbenzo[b]xanthene-7,10,12-trione), a natural compound which is produced by several kinds of fungi. This compound was tested on human recombinant CK2 and turned out to be an active inhibitor with an IC50 value of 1.24 µM.
Investigation of Thermal and Thermomechanical Properties of Biodegradable PLA/PBSA Composites Processed via Supercritical Fluid-Assisted Foam Injection Molding
Authors: Pradeep Sai , Kharbas Hrishikesh , Turng Lih-Sheng , Avalos Abraham , Lawrence Joseph , Pilla Srikanth
Published: January 2017

Bio-based polymer foams have been gaining immense attention in recent years due to their positive contribution towards reducing the global carbon footprint, lightweighting, and enhancing sustainability. Currently, polylactic acid (PLA) remains the most abundant commercially consumed biopolymer, but suffers from major drawbacks such as slow crystallization rate and poor melt processability. However, blending of PLA with a secondary polymer would enhance the crystallization rate and the thermal properties based on their compatibility. This study investigates the physical and compatibilized blends of PLA/poly (butylene succinate-co-adipate) (PBSA) processed via supercritical fluid-assisted (ScF) injection molding technology using nitrogen (N2) as a facile physical blowing agent. Furthermore, this study aims at understanding the effect of blending and ScF foaming of PLA/PBSA on crystallinity, melting, and viscoelastic behavior. Results show that compatibilization, upon addition of triphenyl phosphite (TPP), led to an increase in molecular weight and a shift in melting temperature. Additionally, the glass transition temperature (Tg) obtained from the tanδ curve was observed to be in agreement with the Tg value predicted by the Gordon–Taylor equation, further confirming the compatibility of PLA and PBSA. The compatibilization of ScF-foamed PLA–PBSA was found to have an increased crystallinity and storage modulus compared to their physically foamed counterparts.
Estimating Aboveground Biomass in Tropical Forests: Field Methods and Error Analysis for the Calibration of Remote Sensing Observations
Authors: Gonçalves Fabio , Treuhaft Robert , Law Beverly , Almeida André , Walker Wayne , Baccini Alessandro , Dos Santos João , Graça Paulo
Published: January 2017

Mapping and monitoring of forest carbon stocks across large areas in the tropics will necessarily rely on remote sensing approaches, which in turn depend on field estimates of biomass for calibration and validation purposes. Here, we used field plot data collected in a tropical moist forest in the central Amazon to gain a better understanding of the uncertainty associated with plot-level biomass estimates obtained specifically for the calibration of remote sensing measurements. In addition to accounting for sources of error that would be normally expected in conventional biomass estimates (e.g., measurement and allometric errors), we examined two sources of uncertainty that are specific to the calibration process and should be taken into account in most remote sensing studies: the error resulting from spatial disagreement between field and remote sensing measurements (i.e., co-location error), and the error introduced when accounting for temporal differences in data acquisition. We found that the overall uncertainty in the field biomass was typically 25% for both secondary and primary forests, but ranged from 16 to 53%. Co-location and temporal errors accounted for a large fraction of the total variance (>65%) and were identified as important targets for reducing uncertainty in studies relating tropical forest biomass to remotely sensed data. Although measurement and allometric errors were relatively unimportant when considered alone, combined they accounted for roughly 30% of the total variance on average and should not be ignored. Our results suggest that a thorough understanding of the sources of error associated with field-measured plot-level biomass estimates in tropical forests is critical to determine confidence in remote sensing estimates of carbon stocks and fluxes, and to develop strategies for reducing the overall uncertainty of remote sensing approaches.
Detecting Inter-Annual Variations in the Phenology of Evergreen Conifers Using Long-Term MODIS Vegetation Index Time Series
Authors: Ulsig Laura , Nichol Caroline , Huemmrich Karl , Landis David , Middleton Elizabeth , Lyapustin Alexei , Mammarella Ivan , Levula Janne , Porcar-Castell Albert
Published: January 2017

Long-term observations of vegetation phenology can be used to monitor the response of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change. Satellite remote sensing provides the most efficient means to observe phenological events through time series analysis of vegetation indices such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI). This study investigates the potential of a Photochemical Reflectance Index (PRI), which has been linked to vegetation light use efficiency, to improve the accuracy of MODIS-based estimates of phenology in an evergreen conifer forest. Timings of the start and end of the growing season (SGS and EGS) were derived from a 13-year-long time series of PRI and NDVI based on a MAIAC (multi-angle implementation of atmospheric correction) processed MODIS dataset and standard MODIS NDVI product data. The derived dates were validated with phenology estimates from ground-based flux tower measurements of ecosystem productivity. Significant correlations were found between the MAIAC time series and ground-estimated SGS (R2 = 0.36–0.8), which is remarkable since previous studies have found it difficult to observe inter-annual phenological variations in evergreen vegetation from satellite data. The considerably noisier NDVI product could not accurately predict SGS, and EGS could not be derived successfully from any of the time series. While the strongest relationship overall was found between SGS derived from the ground data and PRI, MAIAC NDVI exhibited high correlations with SGS more consistently (R2 > 0.6 in all cases). The results suggest that PRI can serve as an effective indicator of spring seasonal transitions, however, additional work is necessary to confirm the relationships observed and to further explore the usefulness of MODIS PRI for detecting phenology.
Pruning-Based Sparse Recovery for Electrocardiogram Reconstruction from Compressed Measurements
Authors: Lee Jaeseok , Kim Kyungsoo , Choi Ji-Woong
Published: January 2017

Due to the necessity of the low-power implementation of newly-developed electrocardiogram (ECG) sensors, exact ECG data reconstruction from the compressed measurements has received much attention in recent years. Our interest lies in improving the compression ratio (CR), as well as the ECG reconstruction performance of the sparse signal recovery. To this end, we propose a sparse signal reconstruction method by pruning-based tree search, which attempts to choose the globally-optimal solution by minimizing the cost function. In order to achieve low complexity for the real-time implementation, we employ a novel pruning strategy to avoid exhaustive tree search. Through the restricted isometry property (RIP)-based analysis, we show that the exact recovery condition of our approach is more relaxed than any of the existing methods. Through the simulations, we demonstrate that the proposed approach outperforms the existing sparse recovery methods for ECG reconstruction.
Sustaining Regional Advantages in Manufacturing: Skill Accumulation of Rural–Urban Migrant Workers in the Coastal Area of China
Authors: Zhu Huasheng , Feng Junwei , Wang Maojun , Xu Fan
Published: January 2017

Extant research pays little attention to unorganized migrant workers’ skill accumulation/upgrading from the perspective of the labor supply. This paper takes China as an example to explore the factors influencing the skill accumulation of rural–urban migrant workers (RUMWs), with the purpose of discovering how to sustain or reshape regional competitive advantages by improving RUMWs’ skill accumulation. Structured questionnaire surveys were adopted for data collection in Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province and Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province located in the Yangtze River Delta in eastern China. In total, 700 questionnaires were issued and 491 effective questionnaires were recovered. It takes the perspective of individual laborers, with special regard to the effects of localization on the laborers’ skill accumulation within the context of globalization. It adopts a broad viewpoint including intra-firm skill-biased strategy (as a response to intense competition), inter-firm relationships, and the accessibility of local non-firm organizations. The findings indicate that firms’ skill preference, which impacts employees’ skills and innovation ability and stimulates them to learn with initiative, have a significant influence on RUMWs’ skill accumulation. In terms of collective efficiency based on the co-competitive relationship between local firms, the more intensive interactions are, the more opportunities RUMWs are afforded for skill accumulation. The accessibility of local institutions and favorable policies also benefit RUMWs’ skill accumulation. In addition, the place itself, as a synthesized space of a firm’s internal labor-management relations and inter-organizational relations, also exerts an influence on and causes regional differences in RUMWs’ skill accumulation.
The Economic Efficiency of Urban Land Use with a Sequential Slack-Based Model in Korea
Authors: Choi Yongrok , Wang Na
Published: January 2017

Since the inauguration of the government-led five year economic plans in the 1960s, Korea has achieved remarkable economic development. Korea’s economic strategy, known as ‘The Miracle on the Han River’, focused on heavy and chemical industries such as ship building and petrochemicals and was based on resource intensive urbanization. This rapid urban development caused a series of problems, such as over-development in urban areas, bottlenecks in utilities, and environmental degradation. Nevertheless, the Korean government has recently moved toward deregulation of the greenbelts of major city areas. Since very few studies have analyzed the urban land use economic efficiency (ULUEE) in Korea, this paper assesses the feasibility of recent deregulation policy concerning the greenbelts utilizing the sequential slack-based measure (SSBM) model under environmental constraints across 16 South Korean cities from 2006 to 2013. Our research makes three significant contributions to urbanization research. First, this paper uses an SSBM model to analyze the dynamic changes of urban land use economic efficiency in Korea at the regional level; Second, this paper analyzes factors influencing ULUEE in Korea, and the feasibility of the deregulation policies on the greenbelts; Third, this paper suggests more performance-oriented policy alternatives to improve the ULUEE and implement sustainable greenbelt management.
Evaluation Method for Autonomous Decision-Making Performance in Energy and Environmental Innovations: A Case Study of an Indonesian Community
Authors: Prilandita Niken , McLellan Benjamin , Tezuka Tetsuo
Published: January 2017

This paper develops an evaluation method for assessing autonomous decision-making performance and demonstrates it using a case study. Focusing on community decision-making practice in energy-environmental innovation projects, a decision-making model is developed using Petri-net. This empirical model is then expanded to be able to accommodate autonomous properties and more pathways to reach various decision-making outcomes. The autonomous decision-making performance evaluation is employed by simulating the impact of various levels of autonomous conditions using the expanded model stochastically. Those results are further divided into six categories, based on the conditions (autonomous, semi-autonomous, and non-autonomous) and decision outcomes (fully successful, moderately successful, and failed). For each category, the specific stakeholders’ properties are analysed and explained. The categorised conditions are useful for estimating the outcomes of the particular community decision-making practice based on the stakeholders’ properties. The model can be modified in order to pre-evaluate other energy and environmental related decision-making.