bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Issues in the National Supply Policy of Nepal
Authors: Panta Laxmi
Published: January 2018

Rationality of public policy analysis emerges due to the need of understanding the nature of policies and their elements towards solving societal problems. National supply policy is formulated and implemented for the regular supply of necessary goods and services in the country. Effective implementation of the policy depends on its structure as well as on the external factors from the prevailing situation in the country. In the present article an attempt has been made to highlight the basic features of the current national supply policy of Nepal and discuss the issues related with its effective implementation. Despite several elements proposed in the policy only few have the result oriented features. Many of the elements are ambitious as well as vague. Imperfection in policy implementation witnessed during the suddenly arrived difficulties as well as at the normal time. From the discussion it has been concluded that the policy has weaknesses in its structure, basically in maintenance of hierarchy of objectives and has been facing several unsolved practical issues. Economic Journal of Development Issues Vol. 23&24 No. 1-2, (2017) Combined Issue, Page : 123-136
Resource-Based View of Information Systems: Sustainable and Transient Competitive Advantage Perspectives
Authors: Gupta Gaurav , Tan Kevin Tee Liang , Ee Yaw Seng , Phang Cynthia Su Chen
Published: January 2018

The resource-based view (RBV), or resource-based theory, is one of the oldest and most influential theories in the field of information systems. This paper contends that it is timely to revisit, reflect on, and reposition RBV to ensure its continued disciplinary relevance and progress. In doing so, this paper (i) provides a succinct and sharp evaluation of the conventional RBV of information systems that firms use to establish sustainable competitive advantage, and (ii) makes an original contribution by introducing a contemporary RBV of information systems that firms can use to establish transient competitive advantage. Both these contributions should advance the current and future understanding of information systems as (a) an internal firm resource, (b) a source of competitive advantage, and (c) a driver of firm performance.
Immune Responses to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Sherif Amir , Winerdal Malin , Winqvist Ola
Published: January 2018

The secondary effects of chemotherapy, with bone marrow depression and risk of leukopenia, has traditionally been considered being detrimental for the immune system. However, growing evidence suggests a main role for chemotherapy in antitumor immunomodulation. With reference to cisplatin, which is the basis of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in muscle invasive bladder cancer, four different aspects of immunomodulation has thus far been described; increased MHC class I expression, recruitment and proliferation of effector cells, enhancement of tumor-lytic activity of cytotoxic effectors and downregulation of immunosuppressive actors in the microenvironment. Consequently, the role of chemotherapy in cancer is changing from a therapy solely aimed at inducing tumor cell death, to a potent inducer of immune responses and a potential future major partaker in cancer immunotherapy. This is a great opportunity for the urological community to broaden research in this field in order to increase knowledge, optimize and improve the neoadjuvant regimens of muscle invasive bladder cancer to ultimately improve patient outcome.
Peri-Operative Chemotherapy for Bladder Cancer: A Survey of Providers to Determine Barriers and Enablers
Authors: Walker Melanie , Doiron R. Christopher , French Simon D. , Brennan Kelly , Feldman-Stewart Deb , Siemens D. Robert , Mackillop William J. , Booth Christopher M.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Utilization of chemotherapy for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) is low. In earlier qualitative work we used the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to determine barriers and enablers of chemotherapy use. In this project we aimed to determine the prevalence of these barriers and enablers in Canadian physicians.

Methods:

Practicing Canadian urologists, medical oncologists (MOs) and radiation oncologists (ROs) participated in a specialty-specific web-based quantitative survey to assess potential barriers and enablers to chemotherapy use. Survey questions were developed that were thematically mapped to TDF domains. Logistic regression was used to identify TDF domains associated with high referral/use of chemotherapy.

Results:

110 urologists, 47 MOs and 43 ROs completed the survey; response rates were 20%, 35% and 31% respectively. The mean reported survival gain associated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) was 9%, 8%, and 7% for urologists, MOs, and ROs respectively. Among participating urologists, the TDF domains ‘ social and professional role’ (OR = 16.5, 95% CI 4.6–59.2), ‘ social influences’ (OR = 5.7, 95% CI 2.4–13.4) ‘ beliefs about consequences’ (OR = 4.9, 95% CI 1.8–13.3) and ‘ memory, attention and decision-making’ (OR = 0.50, 95% CI 0.27–0.91) were associated with MO referral rates. Among MOs, the TDF domains ‘ behavioural regulation’, ‘ social influences’, and ‘ social and professional role’ were associated with greater use of chemotherapy ( p < 0.05). No TDF domains were associated with RO referral to MO.

Conclusions:

We have identified several factors associated with referral/use of chemotherapy for MIBC. Optimization of multidisciplinary patient care needs to be considered when designing future interventions to close the gap between evidence and practice.
Disparities in the Use of Continent Urinary Diversions after Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Farber Nicholas J. , Faiena Izak , Dombrovskiy Viktor , Tabakin Alexandra L. , Shinder Brian , Patel Rutveej , Elsamra Sammy E. , Jang Thomas L. , Singer Eric A. , Weiss Robert E.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Radical cystectomy (RC) with ileal conduit (IC) or continent diversion (CD) is standard treatment for high-risk non-invasive and muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Objective:

Our aim is to study contemporary trends in the utilization of ICs and CDs in patients undergoing RC.

Methods:

Using the National Inpatient Sample 2001–2012, we identified all patients diagnosed with a malignant bladder neoplasm who underwent RC followed by IC or CD. Patient demographics, comorbidities, length of stay (LOS), and in-hospital complications, mortality, and costs were compared. Multivariable logistic regression analysis, Chi square, and t-tests were used for analysis.

Results:

Between 2001–2012, approximately 69,049 ICs and 6,991 CDs were performed. CDs increased from 2001 to 2008, but declined after 2008 ( p < 0.0001). Patients of all ages received ICs at a higher rate than CDs (40–59 years: 79.5% vs. 20.5%; 60–69 years: 88.0% vs. 12.0%; p < 0.0001). There was a difference in males vs. females (10.2% vs. 4.0%; OR 2.36) and Caucasians vs. African Americans (9.0% vs. 6.7%; OR 1.49) when comparing CD rates. CD rates were highest in the West, urban teaching centers, and large hospitals ( p < 0.001). ICs were associated with higher rates of overall postoperative complications ( p = 0.0185) including infection ( p = 0.002) and mortality ( p < 0.0001). In-hospital costs were greater for the CD group.

Conclusions:

The number of CDs has declined recently. Patients of all ages are more likely to receive ICs than CDs. Gender, racial, and geographic disparities exist among those receiving CDs. CDs are associated with lower rates of in-hospital complications and mortality, but higher in-hospital costs.
Nonlinear Modeling and Coordinate Optimization of a Semi-Active Energy Regenerative Suspension with an Electro-Hydraulic Actuator
Authors: Kou Farong , Du Jiafeng , Wang Zhe , Li Dong , Xu Jianan
Published: January 2018

In order to coordinate the damping performance and energy regenerative performance of energy regenerative suspension, this paper proposes a structure of a vehicle semi-active energy regenerative suspension with an electro-hydraulic actuator (EHA). In light of the proposed concept, a specific energy regenerative scheme is designed and a mechanical properties test is carried out. Based on the test results, the parameter identification for the system model is conducted using a recursive least squares algorithm. On the basis of the system principle, the nonlinear model of the semi-active energy regenerative suspension with an EHA is built. Meanwhile, linear-quadratic-Gaussian control strategy of the system is designed. Then, the influence of the main parameters of the EHA on the damping performance and energy regenerative performance of the suspension is analyzed. Finally, the main parameters of the EHA are optimized via the genetic algorithm. The test results show that when a sinusoidal is input at the frequency of 2 Hz and the amplitude of 30 mm, the spring mass acceleration root meam square value of the optimized EHA semi-active energy regenerative suspension is reduced by 22.23% and the energy regenerative power RMS value is increased by 40.51%, which means that while meeting the requirements of vehicle ride comfort and driving safety, the energy regenerative performance is improved significantly.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Drones in 2017
Authors:   Drones Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

n/a
Information Theoretic-Based Interpretation of a Deep Neural Network Approach in Diagnosing Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures
Authors: Gasparini Sara , Campolo Maurizio , Ieracitano Cosimo , Mammone Nadia , Ferlazzo Edoardo , Sueri Chiara , Tripodi Giovanbattista , Aguglia Umberto , Morabito Francesco
Published: January 2018

The use of a deep neural network scheme is proposed to help clinicians solve a difficult diagnosis problem in neurology. The proposed multilayer architecture includes a feature engineering step (from time-frequency transformation), a double compressing stage trained by unsupervised learning, and a classification stage trained by supervised learning. After fine-tuning, the deep network is able to discriminate well the class of patients from controls with around 90% sensitivity and specificity. This deep model gives better classification performance than some other standard discriminative learning algorithms. As in clinical problems there is a need for explaining decisions, an effort has been carried out to qualitatively justify the classification results. The main novelty of this paper is indeed to give an entropic interpretation of how the deep scheme works and reach the final decision.
Novel Detection Method for Consecutive DC Commutation Failure Based on Daubechies Wavelet with 2nd-Order Vanishing Moments
Authors: Lin Tao , Guo Ziyu , Wang Liyong , Chen Rusi , Bi Ruyu
Published: January 2018

Accurate detection and effective control strategy of commutation failure (CF) of high voltage direct current (HVDC) are of great significance for keeping the safe and stable operations of the hybrid power grid. At first, a novel detection method for consecutive CF is proposed. Concretely, the 2nd and higher orders’ derivative values of direct current are summarized as the core to judge CF by analyzing the physical characteristics of the direct current waveform of the converter station in CF. Then, the Daubechies wavelet coefficient that can represent the 2nd and higher order derivative values of direct current is derived. Once the wavelet coefficients of the sampling points are detected to exceed the threshold, the occurrence of CF is confirmed. Furthermore, by instantly increasing advanced firing angle β in the inverter side, an additional emergency control strategy to prevent subsequent CF is proposed. Eventually, with simulations of the benchmark model, the effectiveness and superiorities of the proposed detection method and additional control strategy in accuracy and rapidity are verified.
Improving Performance for Full-Bridge Inverter of Wind Energy Conversion System Using a Fast and Efficient Control Technique
Authors: Chang En-Chih
Published: January 2018

This paper proposes a fast and efficient control technique with application to a full-bridge inverter of a wind energy conversion system that is capable of yielding better performance in transience and steady state. The presented control technique is made up of a finite-time convergent SMGL (sliding-mode guidance law) and a Fourier nonlinear grey Bernoulli model (FNGBM). The finite-time convergent SMGL provides a faster convergence rate of system states, as well as a singularity-free solution. However, in case the overestimation/underestimation of the uncertain system boundary occurs, the chatter/steady-state error may exist in finite-time convergent SMGL and then causes serious harmonic distortion at the full-bridge inverter output. An efficient calculational FNGBM is integrated into the finite-time convergent SMGL, thus overcoming chatter/steady-state error problems if the estimated value of the uncertain system boundary cannot be satisfied. Simulation results indicate that the proposed control technique leads to low total harmonic distortion under nonlinear loading and fast dynamic response under transient loading. Experimental results from a full-bridge inverter prototype are given to confirm the simulation results and the mathematical analyses. Because the proposed full-bridge inverter offers significant advantages over the classical finite-time convergent sliding-mode controlled full-bridge inverter in terms of convergent speed, calculational efficiency, and harmonic distortion removal, this paper will be a feasible reference for wind energy systems or other renewable energy systems in future research; for example, for photovoltaic systems and fuel cell systems.
Simplified Analytic Approach of Pole-to-Pole Faults in MMC-HVDC for AC System Backup Protection Setting Calculation
Authors: Lan Tongkun , Li Yinhong , Duan Xianzhong , Zhu Jia
Published: January 2018

AC (alternating current) system backup protection setting calculation is an important basis for ensuring the safe operation of power grids. With the increasing integration of modular multilevel converter based high voltage direct current (MMC-HVDC) into power grids, it has been a big challenge for the AC system backup protection setting calculation, as the MMC-HVDC lacks the fault self-clearance capability under pole-to-pole faults. This paper focused on the pole-to-pole faults analysis for the AC system backup protection setting calculation. The principles of pole-to-pole faults analysis were discussed first according to the standard of the AC system protection setting calculation. Then, the influence of fault resistance on the fault process was investigated. A simplified analytic approach of pole-to-pole faults in MMC-HVDC for the AC system backup protection setting calculation was proposed. In the proposed approach, the derived expressions of fundamental frequency current are applicable under arbitrary fault resistance. The accuracy of the proposed approach was demonstrated by PSCAD/EMTDC (Power Systems Computer-Aided Design/Electromagnetic Transients including DC) simulations.
Characterization of Storage Sizing for an Off-Grid House in the US and the Netherlands
Authors: Quintero Pulido Diego , Hoogsteen Gerwin , Ten Kortenaar Marnix , Hurink Johann , Hebner Robert , Smit Gerard
Published: January 2018

This work uses experimental data to estimate the size of storage needed for an isolated off-grid household in two different regions (Austin, Texas, US, and Nunspeet, NL). In our study, an off-grid house is considered to be supplied with 100% renewable energy during the summer period, in which cooling demand is neglected, and a solar photovoltaic (PV) system and batteries are the main electrical energy providers. Based on results achieved with the DEMkit simulation package we can conclude that, in both cases, using a solar PV system and a Sea-Salt battery would have been sufficient to provide the necessary electricity without showing a blackout during the summer of 2016. The Austin household needs a solar PV system of 38 kWp and storage of 452 kWh; in the case of Nunspeet, a solar PV system of 11.5 kWp and storage of 90 kWh is sufficient. Furthermore, using the DEMkit model, it is possible to determine an optimal value for the size of storage to half of the initial battery capacity (226 kWh for Austin and 45 kWh for Nunspeet) and still be able to provide enough power to cover the load demand of the households during the summer. In a second part, data of the solar PV system and load from Austin for one specific week was used to create data of a ‘typical’ but downscaled day. This day was used to determine the fluctuation of electricity for a real Sea-Salt battery for the considered off-grid scenario in Austin. The downscaling of the data was needed in order to have load values that fit to the size of the real battery. The tests show that the Sea-Salt battery under real electricity fluctuations is possibly adequate for off-grid scenarios.
The Design of High Efficiency Crossflow Hydro Turbines: A Review and Extension
Authors: Adhikari Ram , Wood David
Published: January 2018

Efficiency is a critical consideration in the design of hydro turbines. The crossflow turbine is the cheapest and easiest hydro turbine to manufacture and so is commonly used in remote power systems for developing countries. A longstanding problem for practical crossflow turbines is their lower maximum efficiency compared to their more advanced counterparts, such as Pelton and Francis turbines. This paper reviews the experimental and computational studies relevant to the design of high efficiency crossflow turbines. We concentrate on the studies that have contributed to designs with efficiencies in the range of 88–90%. Many recent studies have been conducted on turbines of low maximum efficiency, which we believe is due to misunderstanding of design principles for achieving high efficiencies. We synthesize the key results of experimental and computational fluid dynamics studies to highlight the key fundamental design principles for achieving efficiencies of about 90%, as well as future research and development areas to further improve the maximum efficiency. The main finding of this review is that the total conversion of head into kinetic energy in the nozzle and the matching of nozzle and runner designs are the two main design requirements for the design of high efficiency turbines.
New Method for Shallow and Deep Trap Distribution Analysis in Oil Impregnated Insulation Paper Based on the Space Charge Detrapping
Authors: Hao Jian , Zou Runhao , Liao Ruijin , Yang Lijun , Liao Qiang
Published: January 2018

Space charge has close relation with the trap distribution in the insulation material. The phenomenon of charges trapping and detrapping has attracted significant attention in recent years. Space charge and trap parameters are effective parameters for assessing the ageing condition of the insulation material qualitatively. In this paper, a new method for calculating trap distribution based on the double exponential fitting analysis of charge decay process and its application on characterizing the trap distribution of oil impregnated insulation paper was investigated. When compared with the common first order exponential fitting analysis method, the improved dual-level trap method could obtain the energy level range and density of both shallow traps and deep traps, simultaneously. Space charge decay process analysis of the insulation paper immersed with new oil and aged oil shows that the improved trap distribution calculation method can distinguish the physical defects and chemical defects. The trap density shows an increasing trend with the oil ageing, especially for the deep traps mainly related to chemical defects. The greater the energy could be filled by the traps, the larger amount of charges could be trapped, especially under higher electric field strength. The deep trap energy level and trap density could be used to characterize ageing. When one evaluates the ageing condition of oil-paper insulation using trap distribution parameters, the influence of oil performance should not be ignored.
Lost Gas Mechanism and Quantitative Characterization during Injection and Production of Water-Flooded Sandstone Underground Gas Storage
Authors: Wang Jinkai , Liu Hengyi , Zhang Jinliang , Xie Jun
Published: January 2018

A gas–water two-phase fluid is present in a reservoir before a water-flooded sandstone gas reservoir is rebuilt. Therefore, in the process of injection and production of the rebuilt underground gas storage, the injected gas is easily blocked by the water in the pores, and the efficiency is low, resulting in a significant loss of gas. The study completely utilizes the geological data and dynamic operation monitoring data of a water-flooded sandstone underground gas storage and clarifies the rule of the gas–water three-phase seepage in a high-intensity injection–production process. Moreover, the main control factors of the low efficiency of this type of underground gas storage are clarified. The lost gas generated in the injection–production process is described from two aspects: microcosmic experiment and macroscopic law analysis. The type, mechanism, and occurrence state of the loss gas are clearly defined, its main type is “water trapped gas”, it formed when the gas rushing into the water area under high pressure and surrounded by water, and its occurrence of this kind of lost gas is mainly sporadic or continuous free gas. A gas–water two-phase mathematical model that can simulate the high-intensity injection–production process is set up according to the experimental result, this model is used to simulate the operation process of the Ban 876 underground gas storage. Based on the simulation results, the gas–water macroscopic movement rule and macroscopic accumulation mode of the lost gas are defined, and then the collection area of the lost gas is predicted and quantitatively described. The calculation results show that the lost gas in one cycle is about 775 × 104 m3, which are mainly concentrated in the inner of the gas-water transition zone. According to the numerical simulation result, six new wells have been designed to develop its internal lost gas, they all have good predictions, can increase the working gas volume of 3000 × 104 m3 and reduce the single cycle lost gas by 50%, which is only 326 × 104 m3. This provides guidance for the expansion and exploitation of the same type of water-flooded sandstone underground gas storage.
Proteomic Analysis of Methanonatronarchaeum thermophilum AMET1, a Representative of a Putative New Class of Euryarchaeota, “Methanonatronarchaeia”
Authors: Ferrer Manuel , Sorokin Dimitry , Wolf Yuri , Ciordia Sergio , Mena María , Bargiela Rafael , Koonin Eugene , Makarova Kira
Published: January 2018

The recently discovered Methanonatronarchaeia are extremely halophilic and moderately thermophilic methyl-reducing methanogens representing a novel class-level lineage in the phylum Euryarchaeota related to the class Halobacteria. Here we present a detailed analysis of 1D-nano liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry data obtained for “Methanonatronarchaeum thermophilum” AMET1 grown in different physiological conditions, including variation of the growth temperature and substrates. Analysis of these data allows us to refine the current understanding of the key biosynthetic pathways of this triple extremophilic methanogenic euryarchaeon and identify proteins that are likely to be involved in its response to growth condition changes.
The Association between Air Pollution and Outpatient and Inpatient Visits in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Liu Yachuan , Chen Shanen , Xu Jian , Liu Xiaojian , Wu Yongsheng , Zhou Lin , Cheng Jinquan , Ma Hanwu , Zheng Jing , Lin Denan , Zhang Li , Chen Lili
Published: January 2018

Nowadays, air pollution is a severe environmental problem in China. To investigate the effects of ambient air pollution on health, a time series analysis of daily outpatient and inpatient visits in 2015 were conducted in Shenzhen (China). Generalized additive model was employed to analyze associations between six air pollutants (namely SO2, CO, NO2, O3, PM10, and PM2.5) and daily outpatient and inpatient visits after adjusting confounding meteorological factors, time and day of the week effects. Significant associations between air pollutants and two types of hospital visits were observed. The estimated increase in overall outpatient visits associated with each 10 µg/m3 increase in air pollutant concentration ranged from 0.48% (O3 at lag 2) to 11.48% (SO2 with 2-day moving average); for overall inpatient visits ranged from 0.73% (O3 at lag 7) to 17.13% (SO2 with 8-day moving average). Our results also suggested a heterogeneity of the health effects across different outcomes and in different populations. The findings in present study indicate that even in Shenzhen, a less polluted area in China, significant associations exist between air pollution and daily number of overall outpatient and inpatient visits.
System-Wide and Group-Specific Health Service Improvements: Cross-Sectional Survey of Outpatient Improvement Preferences and Associations with Demographic Characteristics
Authors: Fradgley Elizabeth , Paul Christine , Bryant Jamie , Zucca Alison , Oldmeadow Christopher
Published: January 2018

Efficient patient-centred quality improvement requires an understanding of the system-wide areas of dissatisfaction along with evidence to identify the programs which can be strategically targeted according to specific patient characteristics and preferences. This cross-sectional study reports the proportion of chronic disease outpatients selecting 23 patient-centred improvement initiatives. Using univariate tests and multivariable logistic regressions, this multi-site study also identifies initiatives differentially selected by outpatients according to clinical and demographic characteristics. A total of 475 outpatients participated (49% response). Commonly selected initiatives included: reducing wait-times (22.3%); convenient appointment scheduling (16.0%); and receiving up-to-date treatment information (16.0%). Within univariate tests, preferences for information and service accessibility initiatives were not significantly associated with specific subgroups. However, seven initiatives were preferred according to age, gender, diagnosis status, and chronic disease type within multivariate models. For example, neurology outpatients were more likely to select assistance to manage psychological symptoms when compared to oncology outpatients (OR: 2.89). Study findings suggest that system-wide programs to enhance information provision are strategic approaches to improve experiences across patient characteristics. Furthermore, a few initiatives can be targeted to specific groups and emphasized the importance of detailed scoping analyses and tailored implementation plans when designing patient-centred quality improvement programs.
Faecal Pathogen Flows and Their Public Health Risks in Urban Environments: A Proposed Approach to Inform Sanitation Planning
Authors: Mills Freya , Willetts Juliet , Petterson Susan , Mitchell Cynthia , Norman Guy
Published: January 2018

Public health benefits are often a key political driver of urban sanitation investment in developing countries, however, pathogen flows are rarely taken systematically into account in sanitation investment choices. While several tools and approaches on sanitation and health risks have recently been developed, this research identified gaps in their ability to predict faecal pathogen flows, to relate exposure risks to the existing sanitation services, and to compare expected impacts of improvements. This paper outlines a conceptual approach that links faecal waste discharge patterns with potential pathogen exposure pathways to quantitatively compare urban sanitation improvement options. An illustrative application of the approach is presented, using a spreadsheet-based model to compare the relative effect on disability-adjusted life years of six sanitation improvement options for a hypothetical urban situation. The approach includes consideration of the persistence or removal of different pathogen classes in different environments; recognition of multiple interconnected sludge and effluent pathways, and of multiple potential sites for exposure; and use of quantitative microbial risk assessment to support prediction of relative health risks for each option. This research provides a step forward in applying current knowledge to better consider public health, alongside environmental and other objectives, in urban sanitation decision making. Further empirical research in specific locations is now required to refine the approach and address data gaps.
Vertical Geochemical Variations and Speciation Studies of As, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu in the Sediments of the Central Gangetic Basin: Sequential Extraction and Statistical Approach
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Ramanathan AL.
Published: January 2018

A geochemical and speciation study of As, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu was performed using sequential extraction and statistical approaches in the core sediments taken at two locations—Rigni Chhapra and Chaube Chhapra—of the central Gangetic basin (India). A gradual increase in the grain size (varying from clay to coarse sands) was observed in both the core profiles up to 30.5 m depth. The concentrations of analyzed elements ranged as follows: 6.9–14.2 mg/kg for As, 13,849–31,088 mg/kg for Fe, 267–711 mg/kg for Mn, 45–164 mg/kg for Cu for Rigni Chhapra while for Chaube Chhapra the range was 7.5–13.2 mg/kg for As, 10,936–37,052 mg/kg for Fe, 267–1052 mg/kg for Mn, 60–198 mg/kg for Zn and 60–108 mg/kg for Cu. Significant amounts (53–95%) of all the fractionated elemental concentrations were bound within the crystal structure of the minerals as a residual fraction. The reducible fraction was the second most dominant fraction for As (7% and 8%), Fe (3%), Mn (20% and 26%), and Cu (7% and 6%) respectively for both the cores. It may be released when aquifers subjected to changing redox conditions. The acid soluble fraction was of most interest because it could quickly mobilize into the water system which formed the third most dominating among all three fractions. Four color code of sediments showed an association with total As concentration and did not show a relation with any fraction of all elements analyzed. The core sediment was observed enriched with As and other elements (Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn). However, it fell under uncontaminated to moderately contaminate which might exhibit a low risk in prevailing natural conditions. X-ray diffraction analyses indicated the availability of siderite and magnetite minerals in the core sediments in a section of dark grey with micaceous medium sand with organic matter (black).
Present and Future of Dengue Fever in Nepal: Mapping Climatic Suitability by Ecological Niche Model
Authors: Acharya Bipin , Cao Chunxiang , Xu Min , Khanal Laxman , Naeem Shahid , Pandit Shreejana
Published: January 2018

Both the number of cases of dengue fever and the areas of outbreaks within Nepal have increased significantly in recent years. Further expansion and range shift is expected in the future due to global climate change and other associated factors. However, due to limited spatially-explicit research in Nepal, there is poor understanding about the present spatial distribution patterns of dengue risk areas and the potential range shift due to future climate change. In this context, it is crucial to assess and map dengue fever risk areas in Nepal. Here, we used reported dengue cases and a set of bioclimatic variables on the MaxEnt ecological niche modeling approach to model the climatic niche and map present and future (2050s and 2070s) climatically suitable areas under different representative concentration pathways (RCP2.6, RCP6.0 and RCP8.5). Simulation-based estimates suggest that climatically suitable areas for dengue fever are presently distributed throughout the lowland Tarai from east to west and in river valleys at lower elevations. Under the different climate change scenarios, these areas will be slightly shifted towards higher elevation with varied magnitude and spatial patterns. Population exposed to climatically suitable areas of dengue fever in Nepal is anticipated to further increase in both 2050s and 2070s on all the assumed emission scenarios. These findings could be instrumental to plan and execute the strategic interventions for controlling dengue fever in Nepal.
Comparative Genomics of the Balsaminaceae Sister Genera Hydrocera triflora and Impatiens pinfanensis
Authors: Li Zhi-Zhong , Saina Josphat , Gichira Andrew , Kyalo Cornelius , Wang Qing-Feng , Chen Jin-Ming
Published: January 2018

The family Balsaminaceae, which consists of the economically important genus Impatiens and the monotypic genus Hydrocera, lacks a reported or published complete chloroplast genome sequence. Therefore, chloroplast genome sequences of the two sister genera are significant to give insight into the phylogenetic position and understanding the evolution of the Balsaminaceae family among the Ericales. In this study, complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of Impatiens pinfanensis and Hydrocera triflora were characterized and assembled using a high-throughput sequencing method. The complete cp genomes were found to possess the typical quadripartite structure of land plants chloroplast genomes with double-stranded molecules of 154,189 bp (Impatiens pinfanensis) and 152,238 bp (Hydrocera triflora) in length. A total of 115 unique genes were identified in both genomes, of which 80 are protein-coding genes, 31 are distinct transfer RNA (tRNA) and four distinct ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Thirty codons, of which 29 had A/T ending codons, revealed relative synonymous codon usage values of >1, whereas those with G/C ending codons displayed values of <1. The simple sequence repeats comprise mostly the mononucleotide repeats A/T in all examined cp genomes. Phylogenetic analysis based on 51 common protein-coding genes indicated that the Balsaminaceae family formed a lineage with Ebenaceae together with all the other Ericales.
Identification of Proteins Involved in Carbohydrate Metabolism and Energy Metabolism Pathways and Their Regulation of Cytoplasmic Male Sterility in Wheat
Authors: Geng Xingxia , Ye Jiali , Yang Xuetong , Li Sha , Zhang Lingli , Song Xiyue
Published: January 2018

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) where no functional pollen is produced has important roles in wheat breeding. The anther is a unique organ for male gametogenesis and its abnormal development can cause male sterility. However, the mechanisms and regulatory networks related to plant male sterility are poorly understood. In this study, we conducted comparative analyses using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) of the pollen proteins in a CMS line and its wheat maintainer. Differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were analyzed based on Gene Ontology classifications, metabolic pathways and transcriptional regulation networks using Blast2GO. We identified 5570 proteins based on 23,277 peptides, which matched with 73,688 spectra, including proteins in key pathways such as glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase and 6-phosphofructokinase 1 in the glycolysis pathway, isocitrate dehydrogenase and citrate synthase in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)-dehydrogenase and adenosine-triphosphate (ATP) synthases in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway. These proteins may comprise a network that regulates male sterility in wheat. Quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, ATP assays and total sugar assays validated the iTRAQ results. These DAPs could be associated with abnormal pollen grain formation and male sterility. Our findings provide insights into the molecular mechanism related to male sterility in wheat.
Regulation of Akt/FoxO3a/Skp2 Axis Is Critically Involved in Berberine-Induced Cell Cycle Arrest in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Li Fanni , Dong Xiwen , Lin Peng , Jiang Jianli
Published: January 2018

The maintenance of ordinal cell cycle phases is a critical biological process in cancer genesis, which is a crucial target for anti-cancer drugs. As an important natural isoquinoline alkaloid from Chinese herbal medicine, Berberine (BBR) has been reported to possess anti-cancer potentiality to induce cell cycle arrest in hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC). However, the underlying mechanism remains to be elucidated. In our present study, G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest was observed in berberine-treated Huh-7 and HepG2 cells. Mechanically, we observed that BBR could deactivate the Akt pathway, which consequently suppressed the S-phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) expression and enhanced the expression and translocation of Forkhead box O3a (FoxO3a) into nucleus. The translocated FoxO3a on one hand could directly promote the transcription of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKIs) p21Cip1 and p27Kip1, on the other hand, it could repress Skp2 expression, both of which lead to up-regulation of p21Cip1 and p27Kip1, causing G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest in HCC. In conclusion, BBR promotes the expression of CDKIs p21Cip1 and p27Kip1 via regulating the Akt/FoxO3a/Skp2 axis and further induces HCC G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. This research uncovered a new mechanism of an anti-cancer effect of BBR.
A Rupture Limit Equation for Pre-Loaded Laminated Composite Plates
Authors: Schonberg William
Published: January 2018

Fiber-reinforced polymer composites offer inherent advantages over traditional metallic materials in a number of different ways; however, these materials are also highly susceptible to impact damage. In this paper, we explore the response of FRP (fiber reinforced polymer) composites under impact conditions that could result in their rupture or catastrophic failure. The work performed was aimed at developing a general, data-driven equation for initially-stressed, flat, composite plates that would differentiate between impact conditions that would result in only a hole or crack and those which would cause catastrophic plate failure or rupture. If this equation were to be subsequently shown to also model the rupture/non-rupture behavior of, for example, composite overwrapped pressure vessels, then it could also be used to appropriately tailor the design parameters and/or operating conditions of such pressurized tanks.
Light-Powered Micro/Nanomotors
Authors: Chen Hongxu , Zhao Qilong , Du Xuemin
Published: January 2018

Designed micro/nanomotors are micro/nanoscale machines capable of autonomous motion in fluids, which have been emerging in recent decades owing to their great potential for biomedical and environmental applications. Among them, light-powered micro/nanomotors, in which motion is driven by light, exhibit various advantages in their precise motion manipulation and thereby a superior scope for application. This review summarizes recent advances in the design, manufacture and motion manipulation of different types of light-powered micro/nanomotors. Their structural features and motion performance are reviewed and compared. The challenges and opportunities of light-powered micro/nanomotors are also discussed. With rapidly increasing innovation, advanced, intelligent and multifunctional light-powered micro/nanomachines will certainly bring profound impacts and changes for human life in the future.
Estrogenic Effects of the Extracts from the Chinese Yam (Dioscorea opposite Thunb.) and Its Effective Compounds in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Zeng Mengnan , Zhang Li , Li Miao , Zhang Beibei , Zhou Ning , Ke Yingying , Feng Weisheng , Zheng Xiaoke
Published: January 2018

Background: The aim of this study was to explore the estrogenic effects of the extracts from Chinese yam and its effective compounds. Methods: The activity of the yam was investigated by the uterine weight gain of mice and a proliferation assay of breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 cell); the estrogenic activity was comprehensively evaluated by a serum pharmacology experiment. The levels of estradiol (E2), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were also measured. Western blot analysis and antagonist assays with faslodex (ICI182,780), methylpiperidino-pyrazole (MPP), Delta (9) –tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and G-15 were used to explore the mechanism of the effects of the yam. To find the effective compounds of the yam which play a role in its estrogen-like effects, we used the same methods to study the effects of adenosine and arbutin. Results: The Chinese yam and two main compounds, adenosine and arbutin, have estrogen-like effects. The mechanism of the yam which plays a role in its estrogen-like effects was mainly mediated by the estrogen receptors ERα, ERβ, and GPR30; that of adenosine was mainly mediated by estrogen receptors ERα and ERβ, and that of arbutin was mainly mediated by estrogen receptors ERβ and GPR30. Conclusions: The Chinese yam has estrogen-like effects; adenosine and arbutin are two of the effective compounds in the yam which play a role in its estrogen-like effects.
Maternal Vitamin D Status and Infant Infection
Authors: Moukarzel Sara , Ozias Marlies , Kerling Elizabeth , Christifano Danielle , Wick Jo , Colombo John , Carlson Susan
Published: January 2018

Maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy may modulate fetal immune system development and infant susceptibility to infections. Vitamin D deficiency is common during pregnancy, particularly among African American (AA) women. Our objective was to compare maternal vitamin D status (plasma 25(OH)D concentration) during pregnancy and first-year infections in the offspring of African American (AA) and non-AA women. We used medical records to record frequency and type of infections during the first year of life of 220 term infants (69 AA, 151 non-AA) whose mothers participated in the Kansas University DHA Outcomes Study. AA and non-AA groups were compared for maternal 25(OH)D by Mann–Whitney U-test. Compared to non-AA women, AA women were more likely to be vitamin D deficient (<50 nmol/L; 84 vs. 37%, p < 0.001), and more of their infants had at least one infection in the first 6 months (78.3% and 59.6% of infants, respectively, p = 0.022). We next explored the relationship between maternal plasma 25(OH)D concentration and infant infections using Spearman correlations. Maternal 25(OH)D concentration was inversely correlated with the number of all infections (p = 0.033), eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) infections (p = 0.043), and skin infection (p = 0.021) in the first 6 months. A model that included maternal education, income, and 25(OH)D identified maternal education as the only significant predictor of infection risk in the first 6 months (p = 0.045); however, maternal education, income, and 25(OH)D were all significantly lower in AA women compared to non-AA women . The high degree of correlation between these variables does not allow determination of which factor is driving the risk of infection; however, the one that is most easily remediated is vitamin D status. It would be of value to learn if vitamin D supplementation in this at-risk group could ameliorate at least part of the increased infection risk.
Demonstrating the Influence of Physical Aging on the Functional Properties of Shape-Memory Polymers
Authors: Ghobadi Ehsan , Elsayed Mohamed , Krause-Rehberg Reinhard , Steeb Holger
Published: January 2018

Polymers that allow the adjustment of Shape-Memory properties by the variation of physical parameters during programming are advantageous compared with their counterparts requiring synthesis of new material. Here, we explored the influence of hydrolytic (physical) aging on the Shape-Memory properties of the polyetherurethane system Estane, programmed in repeated thermomechanical cycles under torsional load. We were able to demonstrate that physical aging occurred through water adsorption influencing the existing free volume of the samples as well as the functional properties of Estane. Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis determined the glass transition temperatures of dry and hydrolytically aged samples. According to our results, Estane takes up to 3 wt % water for two weeks (at an ambient temperature of θ = 20 °C). The glass transition temperatures of dry samples decreased within this period from 55 to 48 °C as a consequence of a plasticization effect. Next, for both samples, six subsequent thermomechanical cycles under torsional loading conditions were performed. We were able to confirm that hydrolytically aged samples showed higher shape recovery ratios of Rr ≥ 97%, although dry samples revealed better shape fixity values of about 98%. Moreover, it was observed that the shape fixity ratio of both dry and hydrolytically (physically) aged samples remained almost unchanged even after six successive cycles. Besides this, the shape recovery ratio values of the aged samples were nearly unaltered, although the shape recovery values of the dry samples increased from Rr = 81% in the first cycle to 96% at the end of six repeated cycles. Further, the evolution of the free volume as a function of temperature was studied using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy. It was shown that the uptake of two other organic solvents (acetone and ethanol) resulted in much higher specific free volume inside the samples and, consequently, a softening effect was observed. We anticipate that the presented approach will assist in defining design criteria for self-sufficiently moving scaffolds within a knowledge-based development process.
Acknowledgement to Reviewers of Proteomes in 2017
Authors:   Proteomes Editorial Office
Published: January 2018

Peer review is an essential part in the publication process, ensuring that Proteomes maintains high quality standards for its published papers.[...]
Survey of Hyperspectral Earth Observation Applications from Space in the Sentinel-2 Context
Authors: Transon Julie , D’Andrimont Raphaël , Maugnard Alexandre , Defourny Pierre
Published: January 2018

In the last few decades, researchers have developed a plethora of hyperspectral Earth Observation (EO) remote sensing techniques, analysis and applications. While hyperspectral exploratory sensors are demonstrating their potential, Sentinel-2 multispectral satellite remote sensing is now providing free, open, global and systematic high resolution visible and infrared imagery at a short revisit time. Its recent launch suggests potential synergies between multi- and hyper-spectral data. This study, therefore, reviews 20 years of research and applications in satellite hyperspectral remote sensing through the analysis of Earth observation hyperspectral sensors’ publications that cover the Sentinel-2 spectrum range: Hyperion, TianGong-1, PRISMA, HISUI, EnMAP, Shalom, HyspIRI and HypXIM. More specifically, this study (i) brings face to face past and future hyperspectral sensors’ applications with Sentinel-2’s and (ii) analyzes the applications’ requirements in terms of spatial and temporal resolutions. Eight main application topics were analyzed including vegetation, agriculture, soil, geology, urban, land use, water resources and disaster. Medium spatial resolution, long revisit time and low signal-to-noise ratio in the short-wave infrared of some hyperspectral sensors were highlighted as major limitations for some applications compared to the Sentinel-2 system. However, these constraints mainly concerned past hyperspectral sensors, while they will probably be overcome by forthcoming instruments. Therefore, this study is putting forward the compatibility of hyperspectral sensors and Sentinel-2 systems for resolution enhancement techniques in order to increase the panel of hyperspectral uses.