bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economising Natural Law: Pufendorf on Moral Quantities and Sumptuary Legislation
Authors: Seidler Michael
Published: September 2019

Pufendorf’s theory of moral entities imposes a normative grid upon an indifferent world and articulates the positive, non-metaphysical nature of morality. This chapter focuses especially on the function of moral quantities, which set the prices of things and the esteem of persons. It clarifies the moral economy constituted by these values through an examination of Pufendorf’s view of sumptuary laws and their role in the state. The need to calculate particular values within a broader normative context shows also how Pufendorf’s method is both demonstrative and casuistic.
Democratic Biopolitics
Authors: Prozorov Sergei
Published: September 2019

Contemporary studies of biopolitics tend to assume that the rise of biopolitical governance entails the eclipse of democracy. The abstract egalitarianism of democratic government appears to be incompatible with the concrete, particularist and individualizing operations of biopower. The revival of democracy is then only conceivable as the overcoming of biopolitics. Democratic Biopolitics challenges this interpretation and argues for the possibility of a positive synthesis of biopolitics and democracy, in which both rationalities can positively transform each other. The book identifies the sources of the impasse of the current critique of biopolitics in its broadly Rousseauan orientation that conceives of democratic subject as subtracted from all particular identities, interests or forms of life. In contrast, we argue that democracy is practicable from within particular forms of life as long as their contingency is affirmed and manifested. Drawing on a wide range of authors both belonging to and outside the biopolitics canon, Prozorov develops a vision of democratic biopolitics that consists in the coexistence of diverse and incommensurable forms of life on the basis of their reciprocal recognition as free, equal and in common. He demonstrates the realizability of this vision by addressing its correlates in our lived experience and argues for its sustainability by elucidating the pleasure involved in the freeform, experimental way of living that democracy makes possible.
Why democracy is good for life
Authors: Prozorov Sergei
Published: September 2019

The epilogue addresses the implications of the notion of democratic biopolitics, developed in the book, for addressing the currently perceived crisis of liberal democracy worldwide due to the rise of authoritarian and xenophobic populism.
KENTSEL YAŞAM KALİTESİ AÇISINDAN SÜS BİTKİLERİNİN ÖNEMİ; TOKAT/MERKEZ-YEŞİLIRMAK ÖRNEĞİ
Authors: YAZİCİ Kübra , ÜNSAL Tuğçe
Published: September 2019

Sanayileşeme
ve teknolojik gelişimlerin olumlu etkileri olduğu kadar olumsuz etkilerde
mevcuttur. Özellikle kentsel alanlarda aşırı nüfus ve yoğun beton yapıların
artışı nedeniyle doğal yapılarda bozulmalar meydan gelmektedir. Bu
bozulmalardan dolayı kentsel alanda doğal alanlara ihtiyaç artmıştır. Kentsel
alanlarda insanların doğa ile baş başa kalabildikleri en önemli alan açık-yeşil
alanlardır. Çalışmanın temel amacını; insan sağlığı için yeşil alanların kent
peyzajındaki yerini Tokat yeşil ırmak kenarında yer alan rekreasyonel alan
örneğinde irdelemektir. Bu çalışmada Tokat ili için önemli bir yeşil alan olan;
Tokat Yeşilırmak kenarındaki rekreasyonel alanlarda kullanılan süs bitkileri
belirlenmiş ve tasarım yönünden değerlendirilmesi yapılmıştır. Arazi gözlem
çalışmaları ile yürütülen bu çalışma kapsamında mevcut kullanılan süs
bitkilerinin fonksiyonel kullanımlarına ilişkin olumlu-olumsuz nitelikleri ve
kullanıcı ihtiyaçları açılarından ele alınmış ve yeşil alanlarda alternatif süs
bitkileri kullanımına öneriler getirilmiştir.
KETENCİK BİYODİZELİNİN ELDESİ İLE ÖZELLİKLERİ VE KULLANIM ALANLARI
Authors: BİLGİLİ Mehmet Emin , SEVİLMİŞ Uğur , SEYDOŞOĞLU Seyithan , KAHRAMAN Şerif , SEVİLMİŞ Deniz
Published: September 2019

Küresel nüfus artışına bağlı olarak sürekli
artan enerji talebi, azalan fosil yakıt rezervleri ve çevresel kaygılar; gıda
dışı ürünlerden yenilenebilir ve sürdürülebilir alternatif enerji kaynakları
elde edilmesi zorunluluğu ortaya çıkmıştır. Yenilenebilir, toksik olmayan ve
biyo-bozunur bir yakıt olan biyodizel, motor modifikasyonları olmadan dizel
motorlarda kullanılabilmektedir. Fakat biyoenerji hammadde bitkileri, tarımsal
alanlarda gıda ve yem bitkileri ile rekabet edebilir ki bu, gıda fiyatlarının
artması ve potansiyel olarak önemli ekonomik istikrarsızlaşma sonuçlarına neden
olabilir. Bu nedenle, biyoenerji hammaddeleri üretimi için marjinal tarım alanlarının
kullanılması önerilmiştir. Marjinal alanlara çok uygun olan ketencik (Camelina sativa) bitkisinin tohumları
önemli bir biyoyakıt kaynağı olarak son yıllarda öne çıkmaya başlamıştır.
Ketencik tohumlarının yüksek yağ içeriği (%25-48) ve üretim maliyetinin düşük
olması önemli bir avantajdır. Ketencik biyodizelinin yakıt özellikleri ASTM
D6751 ve EN 14214 standartlarına birçok açıdan uygun olduğu gösterilmiştir. Motor
güç üretimi, >2000 d/d’da mineral yakıtlara göre daha yüksek seviyededir. Ketencik
biyodizeli mineral yakıtlara göre daha düşük CO ve CO2 üretmektedir.
Türkiye’de EPDK motorine en az %0.5 biyodizel harmanlamasını 2018 yılı
itibariyle zorunlu kılmıştır. Türkiye’de yıllık motorin tüketimi 29.106
m3 olup bunun için 145.103 m3 biyodizele
ihtiyaç olduğu hesaplanmıştır.

Bu derlemede, konu araştırıcılarına,
ketenciğin biyoyakıta dönüştürülmesi, elde edilen yakıtın özellikleri, kullanım
alanları, standartları ve çevresel etkisi konusunda uluslararası alanda
yapılmış çalışmaların bir özeti sunulmuştur.
New Graduates are Changing Trends in Operating Room Traffic
Authors: Hamill Yvonne , Germanovich Sarah , Whitmore Dana
Published: September 2019

The Jefferson College of Nursing (JCN) is affiliated with Thomas Jefferson University Hospital (TJUH), which is one of the top-ranked hospitals in the nation. TJUH is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Magnet® hospital for quality patient care, nursing excellence, and innovations in professional nursing practice. Since JCN is an integral part of Jefferson’s premier academic health center, it is imperative that the two entities maintain a partnership in clinical care education. JCN offers a concept based curriculum which promotes practice excellence, innovation, population health, and inter-professional collaboration. The innovative curriculum offers senior learners a selective immersion in which students can now request the perioperative department as a rotational site. Having this unique opportunity for seven weeks challenges students to collaborate with leadership and staff in the perioperative environment and promotes professional interactions in an otherwise unfamiliar department. Additionally, entering the perioperative environment is the perfect setting to observe quality, safety, communication, and stimulate clinical reasoning amongst a very vulnerable patient population. For those students whose interests were peaked or career paths confirmed, joining the perioperative team as a new graduate begins with the innovative program at JCN then continues with the hospital sponsored perioperative 101 class and nurse residency program. Exposure to procedural areas is minimal at best for most nursing programs and having the perioperative department as part of JCN’s selective immersion will not only benefit our graduates, it will also help support nursing stability for an otherwise hard to staff specialty division.
Aplicabilidad de cuestionarios aplicados a pruebas sensoriales gastronómicas orientados al producto y al consumidor
Authors: Salazar-Duque Diego Alfredo
Published: September 2019

Antes de lanzar un producto al mercado, desde la óptica gastronómica, es necesario valorar si los distintos atributos que lo caracterizan son o no aceptados por la población. Para ello será fundamental realizar una evaluación sensorial a partir de las propiedades organolépticas que presenta dicho producto mediante la percepción generada con ayuda de los sentidos. El estudio tiene como objetivo principal proponer formatos prácticos que permitan evaluar ciertos criterios presentes en un producto culinario, tanto de forma analítica como afectiva. Como resultado final, se presentan dos instrumentos básicos, técnicos y de carácter metodológico, diseñados sobre una base bibliográfica, los cuales serán útiles para el desarrollo de pruebas gastronómicas; una orientada al producto y otra orientada al consumidor. Bajo esta dinámica, se concluye que, la existencia de una herramienta de análisis sensorial permitirá medir las diversas percepciones organolépticas de los alimentos que interactúan con los órganos de los sentidos clásicos (vista, olfato, gusto, tacto y auditivo), las cuales se encuentran interpretadas en el aspecto, olor, sabor, textura y sonido de un producto gastronómico.
Breves consideraciones sobre la Metodología de la Investigación para investigadores principiantes
Authors: Rodas Pacheco Fabian Dario , Santillán Iñiguez Juan José
Published: September 2019

Tradicionalmente, la investigación, como actividad científica, ha sido considerada como una tarea exclusiva de grupos académicos de élite; sin embargo, los requerimientos de la sociedad y la Academia actual han originado una mayor necesidad de llevar a cabo estudios científicos y reportarlos en publicaciones académicas. Ante esta realidad, estudiantes y profesionales de todas las áreas del conocimiento, incluyendo, por su puesto a la Educación, se han volcado hacia el desarrollo de procesos de investigación científica. Por esta razón, el presente artículo pretende proveer nociones básicas sobre la Metodología de la Investigación, con el fin de motivar a aquellas personas que están dando sus primeros pasos en este ámbito. Los párrafos subsiguientes presentan una breve introducción al tema, seguida de una reseña histórica, y un análisis sucinto de los distintos métodos de investigación y los componentes de estos procesos, a saber: participantes; recolección, análisis, exploración y representación de datos; al igual que la interpretación y validación de resultados.
Análisis de la recaudación del régimen impositivo simplificado ecuatoriano (RISE) y su importancia en los ingresos tradicionales del Presupuesto General del Estado. Periodo 2008-2017
Authors: Ruso León Jorge Antonio , Villamar Ortiz Digna Priscila , Ordeñana Proaño Adriana Rebeca , Contreras Chacón Edmundo Ricardo
Published: September 2019

La informalidad laboral constituye una problemática extendida en el Ecuador y América Latina en general. Los gobiernos diseñan políticas con el fin de incentivar la formalización laboral, combatir la evasión tributaria e incrementar los ingresos presupuestarios. El Régimen Impositivo Simplificado ecuatoriano fue diseñado como un sistema sencillo y flexible que facilita el cumplimiento de las obligaciones fiscales de los pequeños empresarios fomentando la incorporación al mismo de los trabajadores informales. La investigación evalúa el éxito de este régimen tributario desde el punto de vista de su aporte a los ingresos del Presupuesto General del Estado y de la evolución de la participación de los ingresos reportados por este nuevo régimen en los Ingresos Tradicionales del presupuesto. Se comparó la recaudación presupuestada y la real con el nuevo régimen y su evolución, así como su participación dentro de los Ingresos Tradicionales del presupuesto. Finalmente, se verificó que la recaudación del nuevo sistema ha evolucionado de manera positiva incrementando su participación en los Ingresos Tradicionales del presupuesto a un ritmo mayor que el crecimiento total de este último indicador.
Evolved-Cooperative Correntropy-Based Extreme Learning Machine for Robust Prediction
Authors: Mei Wenjuan , Liu Zhen , Su Yuanzhang , Du Li , Huang Jianguo
Published: September 2019

In recent years, the correntropy instead of the mean squared error has been widely taken as a powerful tool for enhancing the robustness against noise and outliers by forming the local similarity measurements. However, most correntropy-based models either have too simple descriptions of the correntropy or require too many parameters to adjust in advance, which is likely to cause poor performance since the correntropy fails to reflect the probability distributions of the signals. Therefore, in this paper, a novel correntropy-based extreme learning machine (ELM) called ECC-ELM has been proposed to provide a more robust training strategy based on the newly developed multi-kernel correntropy with the parameters that are generated using cooperative evolution. To achieve an accurate description of the correntropy, the method adopts a cooperative evolution which optimizes the bandwidths by switching delayed particle swarm optimization (SDPSO) and generates the corresponding influence coefficients that minimizes the minimum integrated error (MIE) to adaptively provide the best solution. The simulated experiments and real-world applications show that cooperative evolution can achieve the optimal solution which provides an accurate description on the probability distribution of the current error in the model. Therefore, the multi-kernel correntropy that is built with the optimal solution results in more robustness against the noise and outliers when training the model, which increases the accuracy of the predictions compared with other methods.
Survey Assessment for Decision Support Using Self-Organizing Maps Profile Characterization with an Odds and Cluster Heat Map: Application to Children’s Perception of Urban School Environments
Authors: Abarca-Alvarez Francisco Javier , Campos-Sánchez Francisco Sergio , Mora-Esteban Rubén
Published: September 2019

The interpretation of opinion and satisfaction surveys based exclusively on statistical analysis often faces difficulties due to the nature of the information and the requirements of the available statistical methods. These difficulties include the concurrence of categorical information with answers based on Likert scales with only a few levels, or the distancing of the necessary heuristic approach of the decision support system (DSS). The artificial neural network used for data analysis, called Kohonen or self-organizing maps (SOM), although rarely used for survey analysis, has been applied in many fields, facilitating the graphical representation and the simple interpretation of high-dimensionality data. This clustering method, based on unsupervised learning, also allows obtaining profiles of respondents without the need to provide additional information for the creation of these clusters. In this work, we propose the identification of profiles using SOM for evaluating opinion surveys. Subsequently, non-parametric chi-square tests were first conducted to contrast whether answer was independent of each profile found, and in the case of statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05), the odds ratio was evaluated as an indicator of the effect size of such dependence. Finally, all results were displayed in an odds and cluster heat map so that they could be easily interpreted and used to make decisions regarding the survey results. The methodology was applied to the analysis of a survey based on forms administered to children (N = 459) about their perception of the urban environment close to their school, obtaining relevant results, facilitating results interpretation, and providing support to the decision-process.
Energy-Efficient Driving Strategies for Multi-Train by Optimization and Update Speed Profiles Considering Transmission Losses of Regenerative Energy
Authors: Chen Mo , Xiao Zhuang , Sun Pengfei , Wang Qingyuan , Jin Bo , Feng Xiaoyun
Published: September 2019

This paper aims at minimizing the total energy consumption of multi-train in an urban rail transit (URT) system by optimizing and updating speed profiles considering regenerative braking power losses on the catenary. To make full use of regenerative energy and decrease traction energy consumption simultaneously, energy-efficient control strategies of multi-train and a corresponding solution method are proposed. The running process of multi-train is divided into several sections based on passenger stations. Speed profiles of each train in each section are collaboratively optimized by searching only one transition point from the optimized single-train speed profile, which can be worked out by searching the switching point of coasting mode, and the optimized multi-train speed profiles are updated based on departure orders of trains. Moreover, an electrical network model is established to analyze energy flows, and dynamic losses of recovered regenerative energy on the line can be calculated. Besides, an improved optimization strategy of multi-train, which contains seven motion phases, is presented for steep slope. Simulation results based on Guangzhou Metro Line 8 verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods. Total energy consumption of optimized multi-train can be decreased by 6.95% compared with multi-train adopted single-train optimal control strategy, and the energy-saving rate of 21.08% can be achieved compared with the measured data by drivers under same trip time. In addition, the influence of departure interval on total energy consumption is analyzed and the optimal departure interval can be obtained.
Economic Impact of Energy Consumption Change Caused by Global Warming
Authors: Lang Peter , Gregory Kenneth
Published: September 2019

This paper tests the validity of the FUND model’s energy impact functions, and the hypothesis that global warming of 2 °C or more above pre-industrial times would negatively impact the global economy. Empirical data of energy expenditure and average temperatures of the US states and census divisions are compared with projections using the energy impact functions with non-temperature drivers held constant at their 2010 values. The empirical data indicates that energy expenditure decreases as temperatures increase, suggesting that global warming, by itself, may reduce US energy expenditure and thereby have a positive impact on US economic growth. These findings are then compared with FUND energy impact projections for the world at 3 °C of global warming from 2000. The comparisons suggest that warming, by itself, may reduce global energy consumption. If these findings are correct, and if FUND projections for the non-energy impact sectors are valid, 3 °C of global warming from 2000 would increase global economic growth. In this case, the hypothesis is false and policies to reduce global warming are detrimental to the global economy. We recommend the FUND energy impact functions be modified and recalibrated against best available empirical data. Our analysis and conclusions warrant further investigation.
Advanced MPPT Algorithm for Distributed Photovoltaic Systems
Authors: Lee Hyeon-Seok , Yun Jae-Jung
Published: September 2019

The basic and adaptive maximum power point tracking algorithms have been studied for distributed photovoltaic systems to maximize the energy production of a photovoltaic (PV) module. However, the basic maximum power point tracking algorithms using a fixed step size, such as perturb and observe and incremental conductance, suffer from a trade-off between tracking accuracy and tracking speed. Although the adaptive maximum power point tracking algorithms using a variable step size improve the maximum power point tracking efficiency and dynamic response of the basic algorithms, these algorithms still have the oscillations at the maximum power point, because the variable step size is sensitive to external factors. Therefore, this paper proposes an enhanced maximum power point tracking algorithm that can have fast dynamic response, low oscillations, and high maximum power point tracking efficiency. To achieve these advantages, the proposed maximum power point tracking algorithm uses two methods that can apply the optimal step size to each operating range. In the operating range near the maximum power point, a small fixed step size is used to minimize the oscillations at the maximum power point. In contrast, in the operating range far from the maximum power point, a variable step size proportional to the slope of the power-voltage curve of PV module is used to achieve fast tracking speed under dynamic weather conditions. As a result, the proposed algorithm can achieve higher maximum power point tracking efficiency, faster dynamic response, and lower oscillations than the basic and adaptive algorithms. The theoretical analysis and performance of the proposed algorithm were verified by experimental results. In addition, the comparative experimental results of the proposed algorithm with the other maximum power point tracking algorithms show the superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Analysis and Verification of Finite Time Servo System Control with PSO Identification for Electric Servo System
Authors: Wu Zhihong , Yang Ruifeng , Guo Chenxia , Ge Shuangchao , Chen Xiaole
Published: September 2019

Electric servo system (ESS) is a servo mechanism in a control system of an aircraft, a ship, etc., which controls efficiency and directly affects the energy consumption and the dynamic characteristics of the system. However, the control performance of the ESS is affected by uncertainties such as friction, clearance, and component aging. In order to improve the control performance of the ESS, a control technology combining particle swarm optimization (PSO) and finite time servo system control (FTSSC) was introduced into ESS. In fact, it is difficult to know the uncertain physical parameters of the real ESS. In this paper, the genetic algorithm (GA) was introduced into PSO and the inertia weight was improved, which increased the parameter optimization precision and convergence speed. A new feedback controller is proposed to improve response speed and reduce errors by using FTSSC theory. The performance of the controller based on PSO identification algorithm was verified by co-simulation experiments based on Automatic Dynamic Analysis of Mechanical Systems (ADAMS) (MSC software, Los Angeles, CA, USA) and matrix laboratory (MATLAB)/Simulink (MathWorks, Natick, MA, USA). Meanwhile, the proposed strategy was validated on the servo test platform in the laboratory. Compared with the existing control strategy, the control error was reduced by 75% and the steady-state accuracy was increased by at least 50%.
Design and Sizing of Mobile Solar Photovoltaic Power Plant to Support Rapid Charging for Electric Vehicles
Authors: Satya Prakash Oruganti Kameswara , Aravind Vaithilingam Chockalingam , Rajendran Gowthamraj , A Ramasamy
Published: September 2019

Existing DC fast-charging stations are experiencing power quality issues such as high harmonics in the line current, poor power factor in the input supply, and overloading of distribution transformers, due to the dynamic behavior of charging patterns when it is connected to the power grid. Most of the recent works involve the usage of renewable energy sources to mitigate the issues on the distribution grid. In order to design a mobile plug and play DC fast charging station, solar energy is the best and viable solution to carry out. In this paper, plug and play solar photovoltaic power plant to charge electric vehicles (EVs) is proposed and modelled using MATLAB/Simulink software. The proposed system can act as a mobile power plant. The controller allows the system to charge the battery, whenever there is abundant solar energy. Incoming EVs will be charged directly from the system battery where the charger acts as a rapid charging system. The proposed system can meet the concept of Solar Photovoltaic Rapid Charging Stations (SPRCS), which shows that 80% of charge can be fed to an EV in 10.25 min.
Research on DFIG-ES System to Enhance the Fast-Frequency Response Capability of Wind Farms
Authors: Tu Sijia , Zhang Bingda , Jin Xianglong
Published: September 2019

With the increasing penetration of wind power generation, the frequency regulation burden on conventional synchronous generators has become heavier, as the rotor speed of doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) is decoupled with the system frequency. As the frequency regulation capability of wind farms is an urgent appeal, the inertia control of DFIG has been studied by many researchers and the energy storage (ES) system has been installed in wind farms to respond to frequency deviation with doubly-fed induction generators (DFIGs). In view of the high allocation and maintenance cost of the ES system, the capacity allocation scheme of the ES system—especially for fast-frequency response—is proposed in this paper. The capacity allocation principle was to make the wind farm possess the same potential inertial energy as that of synchronous generators set with equal rated power. After the capacity of the ES system was defined, the coordinated control strategy of the DFIG-ES system with consideration of wind speed was proposed in order to improve the frequency nadir during fast-frequency response. The overall power reference of the DFIG-ES system was calculated on the basis of the frequency response characteristic of synchronous generators. In particular, once the power reference of DFIG was determined, a novel virtual inertia control method of DFIG was put forward to release rotational kinetic energy and produce power surge by means of continuously modifying the proportional coefficient of maximum power point tracking (MPPT) control. During the deceleration period, the power reference smoothly decreased with the rotor speed until it reached the MPPT curve, wherein the rotor speed could rapidly recover by virtue of wind power so that the secondary frequency drop could be avoided. Afterwards, a fuzzy logic controller (FLC) was designed to distribute output power between the DFIG and ES system according to the rotor speed of DFIG and S o C of ES; thus the scheme enabled the DFIG-ES system to respond to frequency deviation in most cases while preventing the secondary frequency drop and prolonging the service life of the DFIG-ES system. Finally, the test results, which were based on the simulation system on MATLAB/Simulink software, verified the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy by comparison with other control methods and verified the rationality of the designed fuzzy logic controller and proposed capacity allocation scheme of the ES system.
Analytical–Numerical Solution for the Skin and Proximity Effects in Two Parallel Round Conductors
Authors: Jabłoński Paweł , Szczegielniak Tomasz , Kusiak Dariusz , Piątek Zygmunt
Published: September 2019

This paper describes an analytical-numerical method for the skin and proximity effects in a system of two parallel conductors of circular cross section—a system very frequently encountered in various applications. The magnetic field generated by the current applied on each conductor is expressed by means of vector magnetic potential and expanded into Fourier series. Using the Laplace and Helmholtz equations, as well as the classical boundary conditions, the current density induced due to the proximity and skin effect is determined in each conductor. The resulting current density is expressed as a series of successive reactions. The results obtained are compared with those obtained via finite elements. Although the paper is theoretical, the considered problem has a practical significance, because transmission lines with round conductors are universally used. Besides, the results can be used to estimate errors when only the first reaction is taken into account, which gives relatively simple formulas.
Long-Term Wet Bioenergy Resources in Switzerland: Drivers and Projections until 2050
Authors: Burg Vanessa , Bowman Gillianne , Hellweg Stefanie , Thees Oliver
Published: September 2019

In the energy sector, decisions and technology implementations often necessitate a mid- to long-term perspective. Thus, reliable assessments of future resource availability are needed to support the decision-making process. In Switzerland, similarly to other countries, only a limited part of the available wet biomass feedstock is currently used for anaerobic digestion. Understanding potential future trajectories of the available biomass amount is therefore essential to facilitate its deployment for energetic use and to establish adequate bioenergy strategies. Here, we utilized extensive government data, historical trends, and data from academic literature to identify relevant drivers and their trends. Starting with current biomass potential, the future availability and variation of resources was estimated by taking into account selected drivers and their projected future development. Our results indicated an increase of over 6% in available wet bioenergy resources by 2050 (from 43.4 petajoules (PJ) of primary energy currently to 44.3 PJ in 2035 and 45.4 PJ in 2050), where a Monte Carlo analysis showed that this projection is linked to high uncertainty. Manure remains by far the biomass with the largest additional potential. Possible consequences regarding the country’s pool of biogas facilities and their development are discussed.
Relationship between Pine Wilt Disease Outbreaks and Climatic Variables in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region
Authors: Gao Ruihe , Wang Zhuang , Wang Haixiang , Hao Yanping , Shi Juan
Published: September 2019

Outbreaks of pine wilt disease (PWD, caused by the pinewood nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus), have caused mass mortality of the genus Pinus in Eurasia. Climate change may greatly influence the distribution and population dynamics of longhorn beetles of the genus Monochamus (the main vector of B. xylophilus), the survival and development of B. xylophilus, and the resistance of pines. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of climatic variables associated with extensive PWD outbreaks in Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) forest across the eastern part of the Three Gorges Reservoir region. Since its discovery in 2006, the most serious PWD outbreak occurred from 2014 to 2018; the most striking characteristic of this outbreak is the consistent increase in Masson pine mortality and extent of the affected areas. Moreover, 28 out of 46 PWD biological relevant climatic variables were selected and used for redundancy analysis. The ordination biplots reflect the complicated quantitative relationship between the PWD epidemic variables and the biologically relevant climatic variables of temperature, precipitation, relative humidity, and wind speed. The results will be useful for understanding the role climatic variables play in PWD outbreaks, for predicting the spread and pattern of PWD outbreaks, and for the advance preparation of management strategies with the purpose of preventing future PWD outbreaks.
FGF23-Mediated Activation of Local RAAS Promotes Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis
Authors: Böckmann Ineke , Lischka Jonas , Richter Beatrice , Deppe Jennifer , Rahn Anja , Fischer Dagmar-Christiane , Heineke Jörg , Haffner Dieter , Leifheit-Nestler Maren
Published: September 2019

Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are prone to developing cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, which is associated with increased fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) serum levels. Elevated circulating FGF23 was shown to induce left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) via the calcineurin/NFAT pathway and contributed to cardiac fibrosis by stimulation of profibrotic factors. We hypothesized that FGF23 may also stimulate the local renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) in the heart, thereby further promoting the progression of FGF23-mediated cardiac pathologies. We evaluated LVH and fibrosis in association with cardiac FGF23 and activation of RAAS in heart tissue of 5/6 nephrectomized (5/6Nx) rats compared to sham-operated animals followed by in vitro studies with isolated neonatal rat ventricular myocytes and fibroblast (NRVM, NRCF), respectively. Uremic rats showed enhanced cardiomyocyte size and cardiac fibrosis compared with sham. The cardiac expression of Fgf23 and RAAS genes were increased in 5/6Nx rats and correlated with the degree of cardiac fibrosis. In NRVM and NRCF, FGF23 stimulated the expression of RAAS genes and induced Ngal indicating mineralocorticoid receptor activation. The FGF23-mediated hypertrophic growth of NRVM and induction of NFAT target genes were attenuated by cyclosporine A, losartan and spironolactone. In NRCF, FGF23 induced Tgfb and Ctgf, which were suppressed by losartan and spironolactone, only. Our data suggest that FGF23-mediated activation of local RAAS in the heart promotes cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis.
The Link of the Prion Protein with Ca2+ Metabolism and ROS Production, and the Possible Implication in Aβ Toxicity
Authors: De Mario Agnese , Peggion Caterina , Massimino Maria Lina , Norante Rosa Pia , Zulian Alessandra , Bertoli Alessandro , Sorgato Maria Catia
Published: September 2019

The cellular prion protein (PrPC) is an ubiquitous cell surface protein mostly expressed in neurons, where it localizes to both pre- and post-synaptic membranes. PrPC aberrant conformers are the major components of mammalian prions, the infectious agents responsible for incurable neurodegenerative disorders. PrPC was also proposed to bind aggregated misfolded proteins/peptides, and to mediate their neurotoxic signal. In spite of long-lasting research, a general consensus on the precise pathophysiologic mechanisms of PrPC has not yet been reached. Here we review our recent data, obtained by comparing primary neurons from PrP-expressing and PrP-knockout mice, indicating a central role of PrPC in synaptic transmission and Ca2+ homeostasis. Indeed, by controlling gene expression and signaling cascades, PrPC is able to optimize glutamate secretion and regulate Ca2+ entry via store-operated channels and ionotropic glutamate receptors, thereby protecting neurons from threatening Ca2+ overloads and excitotoxicity. We will also illustrate and discuss past and unpublished results demonstrating that Aβ oligomers perturb Ca2+ homeostasis and cause abnormal mitochondrial accumulation of reactive oxygen species by possibly affecting the PrP-dependent downregulation of Fyn kinase activity.
Enhanced Senescence Process is the Major Factor Stopping Spike Differentiation of Wheat Mutant ptsd1
Authors: Jiao Zhixin , Li Junchang , Ni Yongjing , Jiang Yumei , Sun Yulong , An Junhang , Li Huijuan , Zhang Jing , Hu Xin , Li Qiaoyun , Niu Jishan
Published: September 2019

Complete differentiation of the spikes guarantees the final wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grain yield. A unique wheat mutant that prematurely terminated spike differentiation (ptsd1) was obtained from cultivar Guomai 301 treated with ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS). The molecular mechanism study on ptsd1 showed that the senescence-associated genes (SAGs) were highly expressed, and spike differentiation related homeotic genes were depressed. Cytokinin signal transduction was weakened and ethylene signal transduction was enhanced. The enhanced expression of Ca2+ signal transduction related genes and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused the upper spikelet cell death. Many genes in the WRKY, NAC and ethylene response factor (ERF) transcription factor (TF) families were highly expressed. Senescence related metabolisms, including macromolecule degradation, nutrient recycling, as well as anthocyanin and lignin biosynthesis, were activated. A conserved tae-miR164 and a novel-miR49 and their target genes were extensively involved in the senescence related biological processes in ptsd1. Overall, the abnormal phytohormone homeostasis, enhanced Ca2+ signaling and activated senescence related metabolisms led to the spikelet primordia absent their typical meristem characteristics, and ultimately resulted in the phenotype of ptsd1.
A Free Web-Based Protocol to Assist Structure-Based Virtual Screening Experiments
Authors: Lagarde Nathalie , Goldwaser Elodie , Pencheva Tania , Jereva Dessislava , Pajeva Ilza , Rey Julien , Tuffery Pierre , Villoutreix Bruno O. , Miteva Maria A.
Published: September 2019

Chemical biology and drug discovery are complex and costly processes. In silico screening approaches play a key role in the identification and optimization of original bioactive molecules and increase the performance of modern chemical biology and drug discovery endeavors. Here, we describe a free web-based protocol dedicated to small-molecule virtual screening that includes three major steps: ADME-Tox filtering (via the web service FAF-Drugs4), docking-based virtual screening (via the web service MTiOpenScreen), and molecular mechanics optimization (via the web service AMMOS2 [Automatic Molecular Mechanics Optimization for in silico Screening]). The online tools FAF-Drugs4, MTiOpenScreen, and AMMOS2 are implemented in the freely accessible RPBS (Ressource Parisienne en Bioinformatique Structurale) platform. The proposed protocol allows users to screen thousands of small molecules and to download the top 1500 docked molecules that can be further processed online. Users can then decide to purchase a small list of compounds for in vitro validation. To demonstrate the potential of this online-based protocol, we performed virtual screening experiments of 4574 approved drugs against three cancer targets. The results were analyzed in the light of published drugs that have already been repositioned on these targets. We show that our protocol is able to identify active drugs within the top-ranked compounds. The web-based protocol is user-friendly and can successfully guide the identification of new promising molecules for chemical biology and drug discovery purposes.
Modulating Shrimp Tropomyosin-Mediated Allergy: Hypoallergen DNA Vaccines Induce Regulatory T Cells to Reduce Hypersensitivity in Mouse Model
Authors: Wai Christine Y.Y. , Leung Nicki Y.H. , Leung Patrick S.C. , Chu Ka Hou
Published: September 2019

Shellfish allergy is one of the most common food allergies, with tropomyosin as the major cross-reactive allergen. However, no allergen-specific immunotherapy is clinically available. Recently, we designed two shrimp hypoallergens MEM49 and MED171. This study aimed to examine and compare the efficacy of the MEM49- and MED171-based DNA vaccines (pMEM49 and pMED171) in modulating shrimp allergy in a murine model of shrimp tropomyosin sensitivity. Intradermal immunization of BALB/c mice with pMEM49 or pMED171 effectively down-modulated allergic symptoms, tropomyosin-specific IgE levels, intestinal Th2 cytokines expression, and inflammatory cell infiltration. Both pMEM49 and pMED171 increased the frequency of regulatory T cells, but to a greater extent by pMED171 with upregulation of gut-homing molecules integrin-α4β7. The functionality of the pMED171-induced Treg cells was further illustrated by anti-CD25-mediated depletion of Treg cells and the adoptive transfer of CD4+CD25+Foxp3+Treg cells. Collectively, the data demonstrate that intradermal administration of pMED171 leads to the priming, activation, and migration of dermal dendritic cells which subsequently induce Treg cells, both locally and systemically, to downregulate the allergic responses to tropomyosin. This study is the first to demonstrate the potency of hypoallergen-encoding DNA vaccines as a therapeutic strategy for human shellfish allergy via the vigorous induction of functional Treg cells.
Interaction of Cultural, Biological, and Varietal Controls for Management of Stalk Borers in Louisiana Sugarcane
Authors: Reagan Thomas E. , Mulcahy Megan M.
Published: September 2019

Diatraea saccharalis F is considered the most important pest of sugarcane in the United States. This article focuses on the history of pest management as it relates to the control of this stem borer in Louisiana sugarcane, and how control practices have become more in tune with integrated pest management paradigms. Various pest management strategies are employed against D. saccharalis and the interactions between each of these provide farmers with the tools needed to curb damaging infestations. However, the invasion of the Mexican rice borer, Eoreuma loftini (Dyar), and other confounding environmental factors have presented farmers, consultants, and researchers with new pest management challenges. We address these challenges and provide an overview of ongoing developments, particularly in the Louisiana sugarcane pest management program.
Are Oral Implants the Same As Teeth?
Authors: Albrektsson Tomas
Published: September 2019

Osseointegration of oral implants was initially discovered by Brånemark [...]
Tsunami Boulders on the Rocky Coasts of Ibiza and Formentera (Balearic Islands)
Authors: Roig-Munar Francesc Xavier , Rodríguez-Perea Antonio , Martín-Prieto José Angel , Gelabert Bernadi , Vilaplana Joan Manuel
Published: September 2019

Large boulders have been found in marine cliffs from 7 study sites on Ibiza and Formentera Islands (Balearic Islands, Western Mediterranean). These large boulders of up to 43 t are located on platforms that form the rocky coastline of Ibiza and Formentera, several tens of meters from the edge of the cliff, up to 11 m above sea level and several kilometers away from any inland escarpment. Despite than storm wave height and energy are higher from the northern direction, the largest boulders are located in the southern part of the islands. The boulders are located in the places where numerical models of tsunami simulation from submarine earthquakes on the North African coast predict tsunami impact on these two islands. According to radiocarbon data and rate of growth of dissolution pans, the ages of the boulders range between 1750 AD and 1870 AD. Documentary sources also confirm a huge tsunami affecting the SE coast of Majorca (the largest Balearic Island) in 1756. The distribution of the boulders sites along the islands, the direction of imbrication and the run-up necessary for their placement suggest that they were transported from northern African tsunami waves that hit the coastline of Ibiza and Formentera Islands.
Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Stability of Retained Austenite in Medium-Mn Steel Deformed at Different Temperatures
Authors: Kozłowska Aleksandra , Janik Aleksandra , Radwański Krzysztof , Grajcar Adam
Published: September 2019

The temperature-dependent microstructure evolution and corresponding mechanical stability of retained austenite in medium-Mn transformation induced plasticity (TRIP) 0.17C-3.1Mn-1.6Al type steel obtained by thermomechanical processing was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. Specimens were deformed up to rupture in static tensile tests in the temperature range 20–200 °C. It was found that an increase in deformation temperature resulted in the reduced intensity of TRIP effect due to the higher stability of retained austenite. The kinetics of strain-induced martensitic transformation was affected by the carbon content of retained austenite (RA), its morphology, and localization in the microstructure.
DNA Methylation and Micro-RNAs: The Most Recent and Relevant Biomarkers in the Early Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cozma Angela , Fodor Adriana , Vulturar Romana , Sitar-Tăut Adela-Viviana , Orăşan Olga Hilda , Mureşan Flaviu , Login Cezar , Suharoschi Ramona
Published: September 2019

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a frequently encountered cancer type, and its alarming incidence is explained by genetic and epigenetic alterations. Epigenetic changes may represent diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers of HCC. In this review we discussed deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) hypomethylation, DNA hypermethylation, and aberrant expression of small non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNA), which could be useful new biomarkers in the early diagnosis of HCC. We selected the articles on human subjects published in English over the past two years involving diagnostic markers detected in body fluids, cancer diagnosis made on histopathological exam, and a control group of those with benign liver disease or without liver disease. These biomarkers need further investigation in clinical trials to develop clinical applications for early diagnosis and management of HCC.
Surgical Treatment of Infective Endocarditis in Pulmonary Position—15 Years Single Centre Experience
Authors: Liekiene Daina , Bezuska Laurynas , Semeniene Palmyra , Cypiene Rasa , Lebetkevicius Virgilijus , Tarutis Virgilijus , Barysiene Jurate , Rucinskas Kestutis , Sirvydis Vytautas
Published: September 2019

Background and Objectives: Infective endocarditis in the pulmonary position is a rare disease. Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis is extremely rare. The aim of our study was to assess patients who were treated surgically for pulmonary endocarditis at our institution from January 2003 to December 2017. Materials and Methods: We analyze eight cases of infectious endocarditis in pulmonary position out of 293 patients who were operated for infective endocarditis (2.7%, 8/293). Only two of these eight patients were not related to congenital heart malformation. They were followed for early and late mortality, long-term survival, postoperative morbidity and reoperations. Results: Among six patients suffering from congenital heart disease, four patients underwent corrections of pulmonary valve malformation previously, and their infected grafts were replaced by two allografts and two xenografts. The two other patients had replaced their infected pulmonary valves with allografts. Two non-congenital patients with pulmonary valve endocarditis underwent valve replacement with biological prosthesis. All patients survived the early postoperative course. The mean follow-up time was 9.1 (interquartile range (IQR), 5.3–12.6) years. The long-term follow-up included seven patients. One patient (12.5%, 1/8) died more than 4 years after the surgery due to sepsis. Pulmonary endocarditis was the rarest endocarditis treated surgically (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Surgery for infective endocarditis in the pulmonary position (IEPP) is an effective method of treatment with excellent early outcome and good late results despite a very uncommon pathology and few operations being performed. Surgery performed earlier may make the procedure less radical.
Dual-Purpose Materials Based on Carbon Xerogel Microspheres (CXMs) for Delayed Release of Cannabidiol (CBD) and Subsequent Aflatoxin Removal
Authors: Cortés Farid B. , Zapata Karol , Rojano Benjamín A. , Carrasco-Marín Francisco , Gallego Jaime , Hernández M. Alejandra , Franco Camilo A.
Published: September 2019

The main objective of this study is to develop a novel dual-purpose material based on carbon xerogel microspheres (CXMs) that permits the delayed release of cannabidiol (CBD) and the removal of aflatoxin. The CXMs were prepared by the sol-gel method and functionalized with phosphoric acid (CXMP) and melamine (CXMN). The support and the modified materials were characterized by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), N2 adsorption at −196 °C, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and zeta potential. For the loading of the cannabidiol (CBD) in the porous samples, batch–mode adsorption experiments at 25 °C were performed, varying the concentration of CBD. The desorption kinetics was performed at two conditions for simulating the gastric (pH of 2.1) and intestinal (pH of 7.4) conditions at 37 °C based on in vitro CBD release. Posteriorly, the samples obtained after desorption were used to study aflatoxin removal, which was evaluated through adsorption experiments at pH = 7.4 and 37 °C. The adsorption isotherms of CBD showed a type I(b) behavior, with the adsorbed uptake being higher for the support than for the modified materials with P and N. Meanwhile, the desorption kinetics of CBD at gastric conditions indicated release values lower than 8%, and the remaining amount was desorbed at pH = 7.4 in three hours until reaching 100% based on the in vitro experiments. The results for aflatoxin showed total removal in less than 30 min for all the materials evaluated. This study opens a broader landscape in which to develop dual-purpose materials for the delayed release of CBD, improving its bioavailability and allowing aflatoxin removal in gastric conditions.