bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging Technologies in Mass Spectrometry-Based DNA Adductomics
Authors: Guo Jingshu , Turesky Robert J.
Published: May 2019

The measurement of DNA adducts, the covalent modifications of DNA upon the exposure to the environmental and dietary genotoxicants and endogenously produced electrophiles, provides molecular evidence for DNA damage. With the recent improvements in the sensitivity and scanning speed of mass spectrometry (MS) instrumentation, particularly high-resolution MS, it is now feasible to screen for the totality of DNA damage in the human genome through DNA adductomics approaches. Several MS platforms have been used in DNA adductomic analysis, each of which has its strengths and limitations. The loss of 2′-deoxyribose from the modified nucleoside upon collision-induced dissociation is the main transition feature utilized in the screening of DNA adducts. Several advanced data-dependent and data-independent scanning techniques originated from proteomics and metabolomics have been tailored for DNA adductomics. The field of DNA adductomics is an emerging technology in human exposure assessment. As the analytical technology matures and bioinformatics tools become available for analysis of the MS data, DNA adductomics can advance our understanding about the role of chemical exposures in DNA damage and disease risk.
Prediction of Compression Index of Fine-Grained Soils Using a Gene Expression Programming Model
Authors: Mohammadzadeh S. Danial , Kazemi Seyed-Farzan , Mosavi Amir , Nasseralshariati Ehsan , Tah Joseph H. M.
Published: May 2019

In construction projects, estimation of the settlement of fine-grained soils is of critical importance, and yet is a challenging task. The coefficient of consolidation for the compression index (Cc) is a key parameter in modeling the settlement of fine-grained soil layers. However, the estimation of this parameter is costly, time-consuming, and requires skilled technicians. To overcome these drawbacks, we aimed to predict Cc through other soil parameters, i.e., the liquid limit (LL), plastic limit (PL), and initial void ratio (e0). Using these parameters is more convenient and requires substantially less time and cost compared to the conventional tests to estimate Cc. This study presents a novel prediction model for the Cc of fine-grained soils using gene expression programming (GEP). A database consisting of 108 different data points was used to develop the model. A closed-form equation solution was derived to estimate Cc based on LL, PL, and e0. The performance of the developed GEP-based model was evaluated through the coefficient of determination (R2), the root mean squared error (RMSE), and the mean average error (MAE). The proposed model performed better in terms of R2, RMSE, and MAE compared to the other models.
On the Simulation of the Micro-Contact of Rough Surfaces Using the Example of Wet Friction Clutch Materials
Authors: Voelkel Katharina , Rothemund Markus , Albarracin Garibello Sebastian , Kramer Vincent , Pflaum Hermann , Stahl Karsten
Published: May 2019

Friction behavior in a sliding contact is strongly influenced by the surface topography of the bodies in contact. This also applies to friction clutches. Even small differences in surface topography may cause significant differences in friction behavior. Thus, it is important to be able to characterize the micro-contact of the rough sliding surfaces, which are, in the case of a clutch, steel plate and friction material. One important measure for the characterization of the micro-contact is the real area of contact. Another important aspect is the contact pattern. The article introduces a method to implement a FEM (Finite Element Method) model from real surface measurements. Real surface topography of the friction pairing is considered. The simulation method is applied to different friction pairings and operating conditions. Computational results with rough and smooth steel plates, new and run-in friction linings, and different nominal surface pressure verify the model. In addition, the results on real area of contact between a steel and a friction plate are compared with published values.
Retrieving a Context Tree from EEG Data
Authors: Duarte Aline , Fraiman Ricardo , Galves Antonio , Ost Guilherme , Vargas Claudia D.
Published: May 2019

It has been repeatedly conjectured that the brain retrieves statistical regularities from stimuli. Here, we present a new statistical approach allowing to address this conjecture. This approach is based on a new class of stochastic processes, namely, sequences of random objects driven by chains with memory of variable length.
Greater Height Is Associated with a Larger Carotid Lumen Diameter
Authors: Hwaung Phoenix , Heo Moonseong , Bourgeois Brianna , Kennedy Samantha , Shepherd John , Heymsfield Steven B.
Published: May 2019

Background: Previous studies link tall stature with a reduced ischemic stroke risk. One theory posits that tall people have larger cerebral artery lumens and therefore have a lower plaque occlusion risk than those who are short. Previous studies have not critically evaluated the associations between height and cerebral artery structure independent of confounding factors. Methods: The hypothesis linking stature with cerebral artery lumen size was tested in 231 adults by measuring the associations between height and common carotid artery diameter (CCAD) and intima–media thickness (IMT) after controlling for recognized vascular influencing factors (e.g., adiposity, blood pressure, plasma lipids, etc.). Results: Height remained a significant CCAD predictor across all developed multiple regression models. These models predict a ~0.03 mm increase in CCAD for each 1-cm increase in height in this sample. This magnitude of CCAD increase with height represents over a 60% enlargement of the artery’s lumen area across adults varying in stature from short (150 cm) to tall (200 cm). By contrast, IMT was non-significantly correlated with height across all developed regression models. Conclusions: People who are tall have a larger absolute CCAD than people who are short, while IMT is independent of stature. These observations potentially add to the growing cardiovascular literature aimed at explaining the lower risk of ischemic strokes in tall people.
Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Triterpenoids as α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Cirsium setosum
Authors: Li Xiuting , Zhong Xiangjian , Wang Xin , Li Jinjie , Liu Jiachen , Wang Kaiqi , Yue Jianyu , Yang Ximiao , Shang Xiaoya , Lin Sheng
Published: May 2019

Cirsium setosum (C. setosum) has a potential antihyperglycemic effect, but it is unclear what bioactive components play a key role. According to the α-glucosidase inhibition activity, three new taraxastane-type triterpenoids of 3β-hydroxy-30-hydroperoxy-20-taraxastene (1), 3β-hydroxy-22α-methoxy-20-taraxastene (2), and 30-nor-3β,22α-dihydroxy-20-taraxastene (3), as well as five known taraxastane triterpenoids of 3β,22-dihydroxy-20-taraxastene (4), 20-taraxastene-3,22-dione (5), 3β-acetoxy-20-taraxasten-22-one (6), 3β-hydroxy-20-taraxasten-22-one (7), and 30-nor-3β-hydroxy-20-taraxastene (8) were obtained from the petroleum ether-soluble portion of the ethanol extract from C. setosum. All chemical structures of the compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis and compared with literature data. Compounds 4–8 were identified for the first time from this plant, and compounds 1, 2, 4, and 7 exhibited more potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity—with IC50 values of 18.34 ± 1.27, 26.98 ± 0.89, 17.49 ± 1.42, and 22.67 ± 0.25 μM, respectively—than acarbose did (positive control, IC50 42.52 ± 0.32 μM).
First Report on a Solvent-Free Preparation of Polymer Inclusion Membranes with an Ionic Liquid
Authors: Vera Ruben , Anticó Enriqueta , Eguiazábal José Ignacio , Aranburu Nora , Fontàs Clàudia
Published: May 2019

A novel and environmentally-friendly procedure for the preparation of polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) containing an ionic liquid is presented for the first time. Traditionally, PIMs are prepared by a solvent casting method with the use of harmful organic solvents. Here we report a new solvent-free procedure based on a thermal-compression technique which involve the melting of the components of the PIM and the application of a high pressure to the melted specimen to form a flat-sheet film. In our study, we have tested different polymers, such as two cellulose derivatives as well as two thermoplastic polymers, polyurethane (TPU) and poli ε-caprolactone (PCL). The ionic liquid (IL) trioctylmethylammonium chloride (Aliquat 336) has been used to produce PIMs with a fixed composition of 70% polymer–30% IL (w/w). Both TPU and PCL polymers provide successful membranes, which have been thoroughly characterized. PIMs based on the polymer PCL showed a high stability. To test whether the properties of the IL were affected by the preparation conditions, the extraction ability of Aliquat 336 was investigated for both PCL and TPU membranes in terms of Cr(VI) extraction. Satisfactory values (90% extraction) were obtained for both membranes tested, showing this novel procedure as a green alternative for the preparation of PIMs with ILs.
Anti-Adipogenic Effects of Delphinidin-3-O-β-Glucoside in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes and Primary White Adipocytes
Authors: Park Miey , Sharma Anshul , Lee Hae-Jeung
Published: May 2019

Delphinidin-3-O-β-glucoside (D3G) is a health-promoting anthocyanin whose anti-obesity activity has not yet been thoroughly investigated. We examined the effects of D3G on adipogenesis and lipogenesis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and primary white adipocytes using real-time RT-PCR and immunoblot analysis. D3G significantly inhibited the accumulation of lipids in a dose-dependent manner without displaying cytotoxicity. In the 3T3-L1 adipocytes, D3G downregulated the expression of key adipogenic and lipogenic markers, which are known as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ), sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 (SREBP1), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (C/EBPα), and fatty acid synthase (FAS). Moreover, the relative protein expression of silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (SIRT1) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) were increased, alongside reduced lipid levels and the presence of several small lipid droplets. Furthermore, D3G increased the phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), which suggests that D3G may play a role in AMPK and ACC activation in adipocytes. Our data indicate that D3G attenuates adipogenesis and promotes lipid metabolism by activating AMPK-mediated signaling, and, hence, could have a therapeutic role in the management and treatment of obesity.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Antidepressant Activities of 5-Aryl-4,5-dihydrotetrazolo [1,5-a]thieno[2,3-e]pyridine Derivatives
Authors: Wang Shiben , Liu Hui , Wang Xuekun , Lei Kang , Li Guangyong , Quan Zheshan
Published: May 2019

In this study, we synthetized a series of 5-aryl-4,5-dihydrotetrazolo[1,5-a]thieno[2,3-e]pyridine derivatives containing tetrazole and other heterocycle substituents, i.e., triazole, methyltriazole, and triazolone. The forced swim test (FST) and tail suspension test (TST) were used to evaluate the antidepressant activity of the target compounds. The compound 5-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-4,5-dihydrotetrazolo[1,5-a]thieno[2,3-e]pyridine (4i) showed the highest antidepressant activity, with a reduced immobility time of 55.33% when compared with the control group. Using an open-field test, compound 4i was shown to not affect spontaneous activity of mice. The determination of in vivo 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) concentration showed that compound 4i may have an effect in the mouse brain. The biological activities of all synthetized compounds were verified by molecular docking studies. Compound 4i showed significant interactions with residues of the 5-HT1A receptor homology model.
Controlled Release of Biological Control Agents for Preventing Aflatoxin Contamination from Starch–Alginate Beads
Authors: Feng Jiachang , Dou Jianpeng , Wu Zidan , Yin Dongxue , Wu Wenfu
Published: May 2019

For the wise use of fungal biocontrol and metalaxyl fungicide, starch–alginate-based formulations have been developed by encapsulating metalaxyl and non-toxigenic Aspergillus flavus spores simultaneously in the form of microspheres using calcium chloride as a cross-linking agent. The formulations were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), a scanning electron micrograph (SEM), and thermogravimetry (TGA). Formulation characteristics, including the bead size, entrapment efficiency, swelling ratio of the beads, and rheological properties, were analyzed. The release behavior of beads with different formulations was evaluated. The addition of kaolin and rice husk powder in starch–alginate beads retarded the release profile of spores and metalaxyl. The release of the active ingredient from starch–alginate–kaolin beads and starch–alginate–rice husk powder beads occurred in both a controlled and sustained manner. Additionally, the release rate decreased with the increase of kaolin or rice husk powder content. The beads added with kaolin were slower than the release of rice husk powder. In comparison, spores released slower and lasted longer than metalaxyl. The starch–alginate–kaolin formulations could be used as controlled release material in the field of biocontrol and reduce the harm of fungicides to the environment.
Non-cultivated Cotton Species (Gossypium spp.) Act as a Reservoir for Cotton Leaf Curl Begomoviruses and Associated Satellites
Authors: Shakir Sara , Zaidi Syed Shan-e-Ali , Atiq-ur-Rehman  , Farooq Muhammad , Amin Imran , Scheffler Jodi , Scheffler Brian , Shah Nawaz-ul-Rehman Muhammad , Mansoor Shahid
Published: May 2019

A collection of cultivated and non-cultivated species of cotton (Gossypium spp.) has been maintained for the last four decades in Multan, Pakistan. This geographical location has been observed as a hotspot for the evolution of begomoviruses and satellites associated with cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD). Recent studies showed that begomoviruses responsible for the CLCuD epidemic in the 1990s, and that almost disappeared from the CLCuD complex in 2000s, have been observed again in CLCuD-infected cotton fields. To identify host species that acted as probable reservoirs for these viruses, we characterized begomoviruses and satellites in non-cultivated cotton species G. raimondii, G. thurberi and G. mustelinum and identified several species of CLCuD associated begomoviruses and satellites. Further, phylogenetic analysis indicated that the identified begomoviruses and beta/alphasatellites are closely related to the ones associated with the most recent CLCuD complex. qPCR indicated that the comparative level of virus significantly decreased in the presence of alphasatellites. Our results indicated that non-cultivated cotton species have been continuously challenged by diverse begomoviruses and associated satellites and act as reservoirs for CLCuD associated begomoviruses. These results provide novel insights into understanding the spread of begomoviruses and associated satellites in New World cotton species introduced into the Old World.
Mutation Breeding in Tomato: Advances, Applicability and Challenges
Authors: Chaudhary Juhi , Alisha Alisha , Bhatt Vacha , Chandanshive Sonali , Kumar Nirbhay , Mir Zahoor , Kumar Ashwini , Yadav Satish K. , Shivaraj S. M. , Sonah Humira , Deshmukh Rupesh
Published: May 2019

Induced mutagenesis is one of the most effective strategies for trait improvement without altering the well-optimized genetic background of the cultivars. In this review, several currently accessible methods such as physical, chemical and insertional mutagenesis have been discussed concerning their efficient exploration for the tomato crop improvement. Similarly, challenges for the adaptation of genome-editing, a newly developed technique providing an opportunity to induce precise mutation, have been addressed. Several efforts of genome-editing have been demonstrated in tomato and other crops, exploring its effectiveness and convenience for crop improvement. Descriptive data compiled here from such efforts will be helpful for the efficient exploration of technological advances. However, uncertainty about the regulation of genome-edited crops is still a significant concern, particularly when timely trait improvement in tomato cultivars is needed. In this regard, random approaches of induced mutagenesis are still promising if efficiently explored in breeding applications. Precise identification of casual mutation is a prerequisite for the molecular understanding of the trait development as well as its utilization for the breeding program. Recent advances in sequencing techniques provide an opportunity for the precise detection of mutagenesis-induced sequence variations at a large scale in the genome. Here, we reviewed several novel next-generation sequencing based mutation mapping approaches including Mutmap, MutChromeSeq, and whole-genome sequencing-based mapping which has enormous potential to accelerate the mutation breeding in tomato. The proper utilization of the existing well-characterized tomato mutant resources combined with novel mapping approaches would inevitably lead to rapid enhancement of tomato quality and yield. This article provides an overview of the principles and applications of mutagenesis approaches in tomato and discusses the current progress and challenges involved in tomato mutagenesis research.
Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Functionalized with Polymer Ligand for T1-Weighted MRI In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Xiang Chenyang , Zhong Xin , Yang Weitao , Majeed Muhammad Irfan , Wang Jun , Yu Jiani , Hu Jinming , Xu Zushun , Tan Bien , Zhang Bingbo , Yan Wei
Published: May 2019

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has gained wide interest in early accurate diagnoses due to the high resolution and low toxicity of magnetic nanoparticles. In order to develop potential alternatives of toxic Gd- or Mn-based chelating agents, we report the synthesis of water soluble ultra-small Fe3O4 nanoparticles by a modified co-precipitation method as T1-weighted positive contrast agents. The magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MIONs) were functionalized by polymer ligand dodecanthiol-polymethacrylic acid (DDT-PMAA) to enhance their colloidal stability. These MIONs have high longitudinal relaxivity (r1 = 8.18 mM−1·S−1) and exhibited good results in the in vitro and in vivo MR imaging. No toxicity was observed in cytotoxicity assay and histology toxicity analysis. The MIONs@DDT-PMAA(magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles @ dodecanthiol-polymethacrylic acid) present great potential as positive contrast agents for tumor diagnosis.
Fast 2D Laser-Induced Fluorescence Spectroscopy Mapping of Rare Earth Elements in Rock Samples
Authors: Seidel Peter , Lorenz Sandra , Heinig Thomas , Zimmermann Robert , Booysen René , Beyer Jan , Heitmann Johannes , Gloaguen Richard
Published: May 2019

Due to the rapidly increasing use of energy-efficient technologies, the need for complex materials containing rare earth elements (REEs) is steadily growing. The high demand for REEs requires the exploration of new mineral deposits of these valuable elements, as recovery by recycling is still very low. Easy-to-deploy sensor technologies featuring high sensitivity to REEs are required to overcome limitations by traditional techniques, such as X-ray fluorescence. We demonstrate the ability of laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) to detect REEs rapidly in relevant geological samples. We introduce two-dimensional LIF mapping to scan rock samples from two Namibian REE deposits and cross-validate the obtained results by employing mineral liberation analysis (MLA) and hyperspectral imaging (HSI). Technique-specific parameters, such as acquisition speed, spatial resolution, and detection limits, are discussed and compared to established analysis methods. We also focus on the attribution of REE occurrences to mineralogical features, which may be helpful for the further geological interpretation of a deposit. This study sets the basis for the development of a combined mapping sensor for HSI and 2D LIF measurements, which could be used for drill-core logging in REE exploration, as well as in recovery plants.
Pathways for Sustainable and Inclusive Cities in Southern and Eastern Africa through Urban Green Infrastructure?
Authors: Titz Alexandra , Chiotha Sosten S.
Published: May 2019

Cities in sub-Saharan Africa are currently confronted with a multitude, and hitherto unexperienced, magnitude of transformative phenomena such as rising inequality, exclusion, poverty and increased residency in informal settlements. These stressors are posing challenges to cities in terms of housing, infrastructure and provision of basic services as well as climate change adaptation. Despite the high dynamics and novel characteristics of city transformation, this urban transition seems to take place rather ‘quietly’ and has, so far, obviously hardly been understood or appreciated by researchers and governments. Subsequently, the multifaceted and extremely challenging problems associated with the process of urbanisation cannot be adequately addressed. Green infrastructure (GI) is currently emerging as a concept for cost-effective urban sustainability and livelihood security. Preservation and provision of accessible urban green spaces is increasingly recognised as an essential part of the liveability of cities. Extensive literature review revealed that the systematic integration of GI concepts in urban planning is seen by an increasing number of researchers as an essential approach to tackle major current and future challenges. Based on the literature review, we suggest that broadening the concept of urban GI by linking it to governance and rights-based conceptualisations will have the potential to unlock more resourceful paths for sustainable, green, and inclusive urban development of cities in Southern and Eastern Africa.
Integrating Communication with Conspicuity to Enhance Vulnerable Road User Safety: ArroWhere Case Study
Authors: Shoji Takuro , Lovegrove Gordon
Published: May 2019

This paper presents findings from a research study into the role that communication plays in the safety of vulnerable road users (VRUs), including a literature review, a hypothesis, and a case study testing our hypothesis. Many governments and road authorities lack capital or have not made it a priority to implement full VRU safety measures, with many gaps in VRU infrastructure and networks. These gaps leave VRUs to take safety into their own hands, including use of conspicuity aids such as high-visibility wear, helmets, bells, and lights with differing levels of effectiveness. The knowledge gap regarding the conventional wisdom, “be safe, be seen,” is the absence of communication and comprehension between road users (VRUs and vehicles). We hypothesize that communication aids are equally, if not more important than visibility aids for VRU safety. A case study was conducted to measure the effectiveness of several Hi-Viz safety vest designs including online surveys and separate in-field experiments using Instrumented Probe Bicycles. The results suggest that Hi-Viz safety vests using arrow designs (ArroWhere’s proprietary products and designs) similar to those found in the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) can increase VRU safety until road authorities can fully fund and complete proper and sustainable VRU networks.
Chiral Recognition of Azo-Schiff Base Ligands, Their Cu(II) Complexes, and Their Docking to Laccase as Mediators
Authors: Kunitake Fuki , Kim Jong-Yeon , Yagi Shiomi , Yamzaki Shu , Haraguchi Tomoyuki , Akitsu Takashiro
Published: May 2019

Chiral crystals were discovered due to spontaneous resolution when enantiomers of 4-phenyldiazenyl-2-[(R or S)-(1-phenylethyl)-iminomethyl]phenol and its racemic mixture were prepared. Using two ligands per molecule, optically active R,R and S,S enantiomers and meso R,S diastereomer of Cu(II) complexes were prepared. Strong chiral recognition was expected for them. Laccase has attracted attention as a catalyst that reduces oxygen to water in a cathode of biofuel cells, which can be effectively mediated by metal complexes. Furthermore, azobenzene can align perpendicularly to the polarization direction of irradiating linearly polarized ultraviolet light (Weigert effect) as well as to the conventional cis-trans photoisomerization accompanying the shift of redox potential. Thus, we also studied the photo-induced control of cis-trans forms and the alignment of these Cu(II) complexes as a mediator to fit laccase appropriately. We discuss photo-induced control on not only electronically but also sterically-favored redox conditions. The meso(R,S)-form of the Cu(II) complex in cis-form was found to be the best at increasing the current of cyclic voltammetry (CV) among the three R,R and S,S enantiomers and the R,S diastereomer of the Cu(II) complexes.
Achieving Health Security and Threat Reduction through Sharing Sequence Data
Authors: Yeh Kenneth , Fair Jeanne , Cui Helen , Newman Carl , Braunstein Gavin , Chanturia Gvantsa , Vora Sapana , Chittenden Kendra , Tseng Ashley , Monagin Corina , Fletcher Jacqueline
Published: May 2019

With the rapid development and broad applications of next-generation sequencing platforms and bioinformatic analytical tools, genomics has become a popular area for biosurveillance and international scientific collaboration. Governments from countries including the United States (US), Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom have leveraged these advancements to support international cooperative programs that aim to reduce biological threats and build scientific capacity worldwide. A recent conference panel addressed the impacts of the enhancement of genomic sequencing capabilities through three major US bioengagement programs on international scientific engagement and biosecurity risk reduction. The panel contrasted the risks and benefits of supporting the enhancement of genomic sequencing capabilities through international scientific engagement to achieve biological threat reduction and global health security. The lower costs and new bioinformatic tools available have led to the greater application of sequencing to biosurveillance. Strengthening sequencing capabilities globally for the diagnosis and detection of infectious diseases through mutual collaborations has a high return on investment for increasing global health security. International collaborations based on genomics and shared sequence data can build and leverage scientific networks and improve the timeliness and accuracy of disease surveillance reporting needed to identify and mitigate infectious disease outbreaks and comply with international norms. Further efforts to promote scientific transparency within international collaboration will improve trust, reduce threats, and promote global health security.
Switching Internal Times and a New Perspective on the ‘Wave Function of the Universe’
Authors: Höhn Philipp
Published: May 2019

Despite its importance in general relativity, a quantum notion of general covariance has not yet been established in quantum gravity and cosmology, where, given the a priori absence of coordinates, it is necessary to replace classical frames with dynamical quantum reference systems. As such, quantum general covariance bears on the ability to consistently switch between the descriptions of the same physics relative to arbitrary choices of quantum reference system. Recently, a systematic approach for such switches has been developed. It links the descriptions relative to different choices of quantum reference system, identified as the correspondingly reduced quantum theories, via the reference-system-neutral Dirac quantization, in analogy to coordinate changes on a manifold. In this work, we apply this method to a simple cosmological model to demonstrate how to consistently switch between different internal time choices in quantum cosmology. We substantiate the argument that the conjunction of Dirac and reduced quantized versions of the theory defines a complete relational quantum theory that not only admits a quantum general covariance, but, we argue, also suggests a new perspective on the ‘wave function of the universe’. It assumes the role of a perspective-neutral global state, without immediate physical interpretation that, however, encodes all the descriptions of the universe relative to all possible choices of reference system at once and constitutes the crucial link between these internal perspectives. While, for simplicity, we use the Wheeler-DeWitt formulation, the method and arguments might be also adaptable to loop quantum cosmology.
The Impact of Reservoirs on Runoff Under Climate Change: A Case of Nierji Reservoir in China
Authors: Men Baohui , Liu Huanlong , Tian Wei , Wu Zhijian , Hui Ji
Published: May 2019

Reservoirs play an important role in responding to natural disasters (such as flood and drought) by controlling the runoff. With the climate changing, the frequency and intensity of flood and drought are likely to increase. Thus, the impact of reservoirs on runoff under climate change needs to be studied to cope with future floods and drought. In this study, the Nierji Reservoir located on the Nenjiang River Basin was chosen to explore the impact. The Nenjiany River Basin is the vital water source in the water resources transfer project in Northeast China. Climate change in Nenjiang River Basin was analyzed using the 1980 to 2013 climate observations. The results show that the temperature of the basin significantly (p < 0.05) increased while the precipitation significantly (p < 0.05) decreased. Based on the result, nine kinds of different climate scenarios were set up. For different climate scenarios, the Hydroinformatic Modeling System (HIMS) model and the HIMS model with the reservoir calculation module were used to simulate runoff during the no reservoir operation period (1980–2000) and reservoir operation period (2007–2013), respectively. The impact of reservoirs on runoff under climate change is studied. Results show that the Nierji Reservoir can effectively relieve the impact of climate change on downstream runoff. When temperature increases or precipitation decreases, there are larger differences in runoff over the non-flood period, especially during periods of no reservoir operation. Reservoir operation under climate change can provide reliability in drought protection.
PECULIARITIES OF CONDUCTING STUDIES FOR CONDUCTING JUDICIAL EXAMINATIONS FOR SAFETY OF LIFE IN THE STUDY OF UNHAPPICAL CASES ABOUT
Authors:   А. Shmereho; V. Kuchinsky
Published: May 2019

In the process of carrying out research work, certain methods were investigated for conducting research into the occurrence of accidents of a non-productive nature, determining the compliance of actions of responsible persons, whose competence includes issues of life safety with regulatory requirements governing their activities.

In this article, in order to provide a scientifically-based methodological base of experts in addressing such issues, improving quality, ensuring the completeness of expert studies, which in turn will avoid possible erroneous conclusions when solving questions raised by the customer to conduct an examination, application of the algorithm of such studies recommended in the article.

Also, based on the implementation of expert developments in conducting such examinations and expert studies on the results of such examinations, it is advisable to supplement the list of main tasks, respectively, and expand the indicative list of issues to be solved during such examinations. The main objectives of such studies are determined by the subject of the study determined by these guidelines.

It is evidence of an accident, the condition of the conditions of any activity, the circumstances of the occurrence of a hazard that threatens or causes an accident, the conditions that led to the occurrence of the accident, and other data that are important for solving problems researched and established on the basis of specific expertise in the field of life safety, including such studies are conducted on the events:

– when the accident under investigation is connected with the performance of the job duties by the injured person;

– when the investigated accident is not related to the performance of work duties by the injured person.

Key words: forensic examinations, life safety, accidents of non-productive character.
EXPERT RESEARCH OF AIR INCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS IN FORENSIC PRACTICE
Authors:   А. Yukhymenko; Р. Borshchevskyi
Published: May 2019

The article is devoted to the problems of one of the types of forensic engineering expertise, namely the aircraft engineering expertise. In the light of the growing number of aircraft operating in the airspace of Ukraine, the increasing intensity of air traffic, as well as the specifics of the Ukrainian air fleet, the relevance of forensic aviation technical expertise is getting extremely high.

At present, there is virtually no relevant expert specialization and all studies are conducted by forensic experts who have the relevant aviation technical education with the involvement of experts as forensic experts in the field of flight operation, repair and maintenance of aircraft, meteorologists, airfield support, ground support of flights, etc.

Summarizing the expert practice of conducting forensic examinations on aviation incidents, the authors of the article point out the urgent need to create an appropriate expert specialty, which in turn involves making changes to the regulatory documents that govern the procedure for appointment and conducting forensic examinations. To provide an adequate level of justification, the necessity of creating an appropriate expert specialty, the authors briefly describe the subject and objects of the aviation technical expertise, as well as provide an indicative list of issues to be addressed by this expertise that are solved by this expert examination.

Regarding the methodological support for the implementation of aviation technical expertise, the authors proposed, in their opinion, the most rational method of ensuring proper examination is the creation on the basis of the regulatory procedure for investigating aviation incidents by regulatory documents of ICAO, taking into account the national procedural legislation of Ukraine. The established methodology in its essence should be a universal document describing the main stages of the expert research – it should be step by step instructions. In future, in addition to the established methodology of aviation technical expertise, narrowly focused methodical recommendations can be added that detail the procedure of examination of certain types of aircraft or their systems and assemblies. Key words: jurisprudence, expert research, aviation incident.
INVESTIGATION THE PROCESS OF LIMITING THE MAXIMUM SPEED OF TRAINS IN CURVED SECTIONS OF THE TRACK
Authors:   A. Batih; O. Kovalchuk
Published: May 2019

The article noted that the speed of trains is one of the main quality indicators of the railway. It increases the throughput and carrying capacity of the railway.

But it must be remembered that one of the main obstacles today in increasing the speed of movement is the curved sections of the path. The speed in such areas is limited by the requirements of traffic safety and the necessary level of comfort for passengers.

Increasing the speed of trains leads to an increase in the forces of interaction between the track and the rolling stock and, accordingly, affects the probability of rolling stock derailment.

The limitation of the speed of movement in the curved sections of the path is trying to reduce the horizontal transverse forces that are transmitted from the wheel to the rail. For passenger wagons, it also allows reducing lateral accelerations, which tire passengers and worsen the ride comfort.

Restrictions in curved sections of the path are versatile, and they are unequal. Some of them allow relatively high speeds, other speed limits are significant. The permissible rolling stock speeds are set based on the outstanding horizontal acceleration, the growth rate of this acceleration, and the speed of raising (lowering) the wheel is normalized through the cant rail-speed tables.

There are several criteria for limiting the speed of rolling stock in curves.

In this article, the authors investigated the limitations of the speed of movement of rolling stock in a curved section of the track according to the coefficient of stability from racking or crawling the wheel flange of the wheelset onto the rail head.

The article investigated the limitations of the speed in a curved section of the track in the case of a uniform, uneven loading of the wheel of the wheelset, with and without cant of external rail.

The authors of the article notes that the study of the issue of the interaction of rolling stock and rail track allows to set factors and indicators that affect the safe movement of trains at appropriate speeds.

Key words: maximum speed of movement, restriction of speed, trains, sections of the track.
INVESTIGATION THE INFLUENCE DIFFERENCE OF THE WAGON’S WHEELS DIAMETERS ON ITS DERAILMENT BY QUASI-DYNAMICS METHOD
Authors: Kuzyshyn A.
Published: May 2019

In the article the author notes that the horizontal forces arising in the process of pressing the wheel flanges to the working edge of the rail, under certain conditions can be very significant. These forces, in combination with the wheel unloading, caused by the geometric deviation of the track in the plan and profile, can lead to rolling the wheel of the wheelset onto the rail head and, as a consequence, to the stock derailment.

Such pressing of the wheel to the rail head in the straight part of the track can occur when faults in the running gears of the wagons: non-parallelism of the axles of the wheel pairs of the bogie frame by the difference in the bases of the side frames, wear of the guide axle-box openings; the difference of the flanges on one wheel pair is more than permissible, wear of the body and bogie bolster center plates, step bearing; a significant difference in the diameters of the wheels of the wheelset caused by the intense wear of the rolling surface of one of them, etc.

The article deals with the investigation of the influence of the wheels’ diameters difference of the wheelset on the amount of lateral force for the empty and loaded state of the rolling stock wagon.

The results obtained made it possible to conclude that an increase in the wheels’ diameters difference of the wheelset of a loaded wagon of rolling stock leads to more intensive growth of the lateral force, as compared with the exhaust. This is caused by the linear dependence of the lateral force on the mass of the wagon of the rolling stock.

However, for both the empty and the loaded wagon, the increase in the lateral force value has a negative effect. In conjunction with the unloading of the wheel it increases the probability of rolling in the wheel of the wheelset on the rail head. Also, an increase in the action of the lateral force from the wheelset on the rail, causes increased wear of the rail, the wheel flange, which is pressed. At the same time, rolling surfaces of an irregular shape are formed on the surface of the other wheel.

Therefore, it is important to ensure the maintenance of the wheels of a wheel pair with the smallest difference in its diameters.

Key words: rolling stock, diameter difference of wheels, quasi-dynamics method.
Tinjauan Sensory Branding dan Psikologi Desain Kedai Kopi Kekinian Terhadap Perilaku Konsumen
Authors: Aryani Dewi Isma
Published: May 2019

ABSTRAK

Dalam bidang ritel, inovasi branding dilakukan dengan sensory branding ditunjang dengan penerapan psikologi desain yang sesuai. Sensory branding memanfaatkan indera manusia dalam memberi pengalaman emosional pada pengunjung yang dapat dicapai melalui material, skema warna, pencahayaan, window display, dan product display pada toko. Sensory branding yang akan dikaji terutama yang berkaitan dengan indera penglihatan dan pengecap/ perasa. Sedangkan dalam hal psikologi desain akan dikaji berdasarkan apa yang dirasakan pengunjung dan kecenderungan interaktivitas sosial manusia yang ada di dalamnya. Oleh karena itu, melalui penelitian ini akan dipaparkan temuan sensory branding dan unsur psikologi desain yang ada pada Mojo Coffee sebagai studi kasus, terutama hal yang berkaitan dengan citra dari branding interior toko,  gaya desain, elemen interior, dan visual merchandising.

 

Kata Kunci: kafe, psikologi desain, sensory branding
Window Lighting sebagai Pembentuk Dimensi dan Karakter Objek Model dalam Fotografi Potret Hitam Putih
Authors: Fiandra Yosa , Sudaryat Yayat
Published: May 2019

Pencahayaan dalam fotografi merupakan hal yang sangat penting, tanpa cahaya tentu tidak akan ada gambar yang tercipta. Jendela merupakan bagian penting dari suatu bangunan, selain untuk sirkulasi udara, jendela juga berfungsi untuk mendapatkan cahaya dari luar dan juga sebagai penghubung ke pemandangan di luar bangunan, dalam dunia fotografi pencahayaan dari jendela menjadi salah satu media untuk membuat sebuah foto yang sangat natural, tehnik ini memanfaatkan sumber cahaya yang berasal dari jendela. Salah satu bentuk foto yang sangat menarik dalam menggunakan pencahayaan natural dari jendela, adalah ”Potrait Photography”, dengan pencahayaan natural ini seorang fotografer bisa menghasilkan suatu foto yang menarik dan alamiah dari objek model yang menjadi objek fotografinya, Tehnik ini merupakan salah satu tehnik pencahayaan dasar dalam fotografi, gambar yang dihasilkan akan terlihat sangat alamiah, sesuatu yang lebih alamiah lebih menunjukan suatu realitas.

 

Kata Kunci : Cahaya, Jendela, Fotografi, Potret, Orang, Realitas
Em Torno da Não-Recepção de John Keats no Portugal de Oitocentos
Authors: Dias Miguel
Published: May 2019

John Keats (1795-1821) is widely regarded as a main figure in the scope of English Romantic Literature. Although the poet lived a short life, the quality of his work has earned him a place in the literary cannon, alongside Lord Byron (1788-1824) and Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792-1822), within the second generation of English romantic poets.
The reception of Keats in Portugal, however, took place long after the poet achieved literary recognition in England. There were virtually no references to the poet, either in published volumes or in the Portuguese press of the 19th century, and the first translation of one of his poems was only published in 1915. The poet’s famous odes, generally considered his most influential works, were only translated in 1960.
This was followed by an increase in the number of published translations, as well as essays on Keats and his work. The reception of John Keats in Portugal was evidently dissimilar to the ones of Lord Byron and Walter Scott (1771-1832), two Anglo-Saxon romantics tremendously appreciated in the country since the early 19th century. The aim of this case study is, to the extent that is possible, to point out and to clarify the reasons that led to the late reception of this English romantic in Portugal. It is therefore important to draw a comparison between the receptions of Keats, Byron and Scott in the country, as well as to discuss the importance of the French cultural system in the mediation of English authors and works to Portugal during that period.
Representações de Macau após a Guerra do Ópio no Poema “Militar” The Fair Chinese Maid; a Tale of Macao (1842)
Authors: Puga Rogério
Published: May 2019

In 1842, a British official anonymously published the first canto of poem The Fair Chinese Maid; a Tale of Macao (1842), written in Hong Kong, short after the end of the Opium War. The section of the ‘colonial’ text depicts Macau as an historical space of political tension(s) where East meets and confronts West. This paper analyses the imagery and cultural elements associated with the Portuguese and Chinese dimensions of Macau as a frontier-city throughout the poem.
“The Alliance is not our whole Foreign Policy”: Salazar’s Speeches and Notes about the Anglo-Portuguese Alliance and the Attitude of the Portuguese Government towards Britain during the Spanish Civil War (September 1936-July 1937)
Authors: Bernardo Lopes António Manuel
Published: May 2019

In an attempt to stem the escalation of the Spanish Civil War to other countries, France and Britain proposed the signing of a non-intervention agreement with other nations, including Germany, Italy, Portugal, and the Soviet Union, all of which had definite stakes in the outcome of the conflict. Compared with these other countries, Portugal’s involvement was more discreet, but by no means less critical. Taking into account its role in the war and the circumstances in which Salazar tried to stay ahead of the game, this study serves two objectives. The first one is to understand the ways in which Salazar assessed the role of Britain in the Non-Intervention Committee from September 1936 to July 1937, notably through his Notes and Speeches (2016). The second objective, still based on the same documents, is to examine how he depicted the Anglo-Portuguese relations and the Alliance in the first year of the Spanish Civil War, a period marked by the transition from a position of apparent neutrality and impartiality to a position where he openly champions the nationalist cause as the only way to stop the progress of communism in Europe. The tipping point was the attempt on his life on 4 July 1937. In his speech at the national assembly two days later, he claims that he does not fear the hatred that his critics in Britain bare him and that Portugal, though still cherishing the Alliance, must be able to steer its own course and live up to its political principles.
“We Missed Caparica”: a Experiência Educativa do Estrangeiro em The Young Traveller in Portugal (1955)
Authors: Castanheira Maria Zulmira
Published: May 2019

In 1947, shortly after World War II, when major growth in tourism began, the London publisher Phoenix House launched an illustrated series titled «The Young Traveller Series». The first volume, set in South Africa, would be followed by another 40, targeting 12 to 16 year olds. The aim was to describe the way of life in several countries, exposing young readers to the diversity of the world and to linguistic and cultural differences. Avoiding the drier conventions of the travel book (in particular the profusion of objective, practical, utilitarian information), the series adopted an attractive and effective method of presenting the Other to an audience comprising children and
young people, publishing narratives starring children and teenagers who go through the exciting experience of coming into contact with the most diverse regions of the globe. In 1955 a volume dedicated to Portugal was published: The Young Traveller in Portugal, by the journalist Honor Wyatt (1910-1998). A “book of fiction based on fact”, it is strongly autobiographical in tone, as it is the result of a journey to Estado Novo Portugal made by the author in 1953 together with her husband and two children, with the specific purpose of writing a book about this Iberian country. According to the principles of
the series, the work relates a trip that from the beginning is intended as educational. Travelling along an alternative itinerary to those enshrined in travel guides, the English family escapes growing massification and instead seeks circuits that correspond to individual tastes and cultural interests. This article analyses how Portugal and
the Portuguese are portrayed in this work for young British readers. Special attention is paid to the attitude of the protagonists towards the Portuguese Other and to the way the trip is presented as an experience that provides a comparison between the place of origin of the traveller and the country visited, with the consequent process
of self-identification through differentiation. Getting away from the routine of everyday English life represents for the two younger characters a chance of adventure and personal challenge that has always been associated with travel. Furthermore, it is an opportunity to learn two important lessons: that Europe is not a homogeneous
space, that it is, rather, made up of differences and specificities, and that the experience of the foreign can promote tolerance and understanding among peoples and cultures.