bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEMS Deformable Mirrors for Space-Based High-Contrast Imaging
Authors: Morgan Rachel , Douglas Ewan , Allan Gregory , Bierden Paul , Chakrabarti Supriya , Cook Timothy , Egan Mark , Furesz Gabor , Gubner Jennifer , Groff Tyler , Haughwout Christian , Holden Bobby , Mendillo Christopher , Ouellet Mireille , do Vale Pereira Paula , Stein Abigail , Thibault Simon , Wu Xingtao , Xin Yeyuan , Cahoy Kerri
Published: May 2019

Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) Deformable Mirrors (DMs) enable precise wavefront control for optical systems. This technology can be used to meet the extreme wavefront control requirements for high contrast imaging of exoplanets with coronagraph instruments. MEMS DM technology is being demonstrated and developed in preparation for future exoplanet high contrast imaging space telescopes, including the Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST) mission which supported the development of a 2040 actuator MEMS DM. In this paper, we discuss ground testing results and several projects which demonstrate the operation of MEMS DMs in the space environment. The missions include the Planet Imaging Concept Testbed Using a Recoverable Experiment (PICTURE) sounding rocket (launched 2011), the Planet Imaging Coronagraphic Technology Using a Reconfigurable Experimental Base (PICTURE-B) sounding rocket (launched 2015), the Planetary Imaging Concept Testbed Using a Recoverable Experiment - Coronagraph (PICTURE-C) high altitude balloon (expected launch 2019), the High Contrast Imaging Balloon System (HiCIBaS) high altitude balloon (launched 2018), and the Deformable Mirror Demonstration Mission (DeMi) CubeSat mission (expected launch late 2019). We summarize results from the previously flown missions and objectives for the missions that are next on the pad. PICTURE had technical difficulties with the sounding rocket telemetry system. PICTURE-B demonstrated functionality at >100 km altitude after the payload experienced 12-g RMS (Vehicle Level 2) test and sounding rocket launch loads. The PICTURE-C balloon aims to demonstrate 10 - 7 contrast using a vector vortex coronagraph, image plane wavefront sensor, and a 952 actuator MEMS DM. The HiClBaS flight experienced a DM cabling issue, but the 37-segment hexagonal piston-tip-tilt DM is operational post-flight. The DeMi mission aims to demonstrate wavefront control to a precision of less than 100 nm RMS in space with a 140 actuator MEMS DM.
Enantioselective Organocatalysis-Based Synthesis of 3-Hydroxy Fatty Acids and Fatty γ-Lactones
Authors: Bourboula Asimina , Limnios Dimitris , Kokotou Maroula G. , Mountanea Olga G. , Kokotos George
Published: May 2019

3-Hydroxy fatty acids have attracted the interest of researchers, since some of them may interact with free fatty acid receptors more effectively than their non-hydroxylated counterparts and their determination in plasma provides diagnostic information regarding mitochondrial deficiency. We present here the development of a convenient and general methodology for the asymmetric synthesis of 3-hydroxy fatty acids. The enantioselective organocatalytic synthesis of terminal epoxides, starting from long chain aldehydes, is the key-step of our methodology, followed by ring opening with vinylmagnesium bromide. Ozonolysis and subsequent oxidation leads to the target products. MacMillan’s third generation imidazolidinone organocatalyst has been employed for the epoxide formation, ensuring products in high enantiomeric purity. Furthermore, a route for the incorporation of deuterium on the carbon atom carrying the hydroxy group was developed allowing the synthesis of deuterated derivatives, which may be useful in biological studies and in mass spectrometry studies. In addition, the synthesis of fatty γ-lactones, corresponding to 4-hydroxy fatty acids, was also explored.
Miniemulsion RAFT Copolymerization of MMA with Acrylic Acid and Methacrylic Acid and Bioconjugation with BSA
Authors: Way Débora Vieira , Braido Rayany Stôcco , dos Reis Sabrina Alves , Lara Flávio Alves , Pinto José Carlos
Published: May 2019

Polymerization through reversible addition-fragmentation chain-transfer (RAFT) polymerization has been extensively employed for the production of polymers with controlled molar mass, complex architectures and copolymer composition distributions intended for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. In the present work, RAFT miniemulsion copolymerizations of methyl methacrylate with acrylic acid and methacrylic acid were conducted to prepare hydrophilic polymer nanoparticles and compare cell uptake results after bioconjugation with bovine serum albumin (BSA), used as a model biomolecule. Obtained results indicate that the RAFT agent 2-cyano-propyl-dithiobenzoate allowed for successful free radical controlled methyl methacrylate copolymerizations and performed better when methacrylic acid was used as comonomer. Results also indicate that poly(methyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid) nanoparticles prepared by RAFT copolymerization and bioconjugated with BSA were exceptionally well accepted by cells, when compared to the other produced polymer nanoparticles because cellular uptake levels were much higher for particles prepared in presence of methacrylic acid, which can probably be associated to its high hydrophilicity.
Simultaneous Thermal Stability and Ultrahigh Sensitivity of Heterojunction SERS Substrates
Authors: Ma Lingwei , Wang Jinke , Huang Hanchen , Zhang Zhengjun , Li Xiaogang , Fan Yi
Published: May 2019

This paper reports the design of Ag-Al2O3-Ag heterojunctions based on Ag nanorods (AgNRs) and their applications as thermally stable and ultrasensitive substrates of surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). Specifically, an ultrathin Al2O3 capping layer of 10 nm on top of AgNRs serves to slow down the surface diffusion of Ag at high temperatures. Then, an additional Ag layer on top of the capping layer creates AgNRs-Al2O3-Ag heterojunctions, which lead to giant enhancement of electromagnetic fields within the Al2O3 gap regions that could boost the SERS enhancement. As a result of this design, the SERS substrates are thermally stable up to 200 °C, which has been increased by more than 100 °C compared with bare AgNRs, and their sensitivity is about 400% that of pure AgNRs. This easy yet effective capping approach offers a pathway to fabricate ultrasensitive, thermally stable and easily prepared SERS sensors, and to extend SERS applications for high-temperature detections, such as monitoring in situ the molecule reorientation process upon annealing. Such simultaneous achievement of thermal stability and SERS sensitivity represents a great advance in the design of SERS sensors and will inspire the fabrication of novel hetero-nanostructures.
Priming of Hypothalamic Ghrelin Signaling and Microglia Activation Exacerbate Feeding in Rats’ Offspring Following Maternal Overnutrition
Authors: Maldonado-Ruiz Roger , Cárdenas-Tueme Marcela , Montalvo-Martínez Larisa , Vidaltamayo Roman , Garza-Ocañas Lourdes , Reséndez-Perez Diana , Camacho Alberto
Published: May 2019

Maternal overnutrition during pregnancy leads to metabolic alterations, including obesity, hyperphagia, and inflammation in the offspring. Nutritional priming of central inflammation and its role in ghrelin sensitivity during fed and fasted states have not been analyzed. The current study aims to identify the effect of maternal programming on microglia activation and ghrelin-induced activation of hypothalamic neurons leading to food intake response. We employed a nutritional programming model exposing female Wistar rats to a cafeteria diet (CAF) from pre-pregnancy to weaning. Food intake in male offspring was determined daily after fasting and subcutaneous injection of ghrelin. Hypothalamic ghrelin sensitivity and microglia activation was evaluated using immunodetection for Iba-1 and c-Fos markers, and Western blot for TBK1 signaling. Release of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1β after stimulation with palmitic, oleic, linoleic acid, or C6 ceramide in primary microglia culture were quantified using ELISA. We found that programmed offspring by CAF diet exhibits overfeeding after fasting and peripheral ghrelin administration, which correlates with an increase in the hypothalamic Iba-1 microglia marker and c-Fos cell activation. Additionally, in contrast to oleic, linoleic, or C6 ceramide stimulation in primary microglia culture, stimulation with palmitic acid for 24 h promotes TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1β release and TBK1 activation. Notably, intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) palmitic acid or LPS inoculation for five days promotes daily increase in food intake and food consumption after ghrelin administration. Finally, we found that i.c.v. palmitic acid substantially activates hypothalamic Iba-1 microglia marker and c-Fos. Together, our results suggest that maternal nutritional programing primes ghrelin sensitivity and microglia activation, which potentially might mirror hypothalamic administration of the saturated palmitic acid.
Microstructure Control of Tubular Micro-Channelled Supports Fabricated by the Phase Inversion Casting Method
Authors: Liu Yuliang , Rahimalimamaghani Arash , van Sint Annaland Martin , Gallucci Fausto
Published: May 2019

Thin-film membrane layers coated onto porous supports is widely considered as an efficient way to obtain high-performance oxygen transport membranes with both good permeability and high mechanical strength. However, conventional preparation methods of membrane supports usually result in highly tortuous channels with high mass transfer resistance. Tubular porous MgO and MgO/CGO supports were fabricated with a simple phase inversion casting method. Long finger-like channels were obtained inside the dual-phase supports by adjusting the ceramic loading, polymer concentration and particle surface area, as well as by introducing ethanol inside the casting slurries. Slurries that exhibit lower viscosity in the zero-shear viscosity region resulted in more pronounced channel growth. These supports were used to produce thin supported CGO membranes for possible application in O2 separation. Similar shrinkage speeds for the different layers during the sintering process are crucial for obtaining dense asymmetric membranes. The shrinkage of the support tube at a high temperature was greatly affected by the polymer/ceramic ratio and compatible shrinkage behaviours of the two layers were realized with polymer/ceramic weight ratios between 0.175 and 0.225.
The Hermeneutics of Contentious Imagery: What Exactly the Zhuangzi Has to Say about the Straw Dogs in the Laozi
Authors: Searle Callisto
Published: May 2019

The image of “straw dogs” (chugou 刍狗) is a simile used in chapter five of the Laozi (老子), in a passage generally understood as an explicit Daoist rejection of kind acts (or benevolence as ren 仁 was translated for a long time), well known as the basis of Confucian teachings. Further along the Daoist lineage of philosophical texts, the same image of sacrificial straw dogs also makes an appearance in the Zhuangzi (庄子), and this passage will become a welcome source of hermeneutic evidence for translators faced with the stark appearance of the image in the Laozi, that offers little elaboration on its meaning. James Legge adopted this hermeneutic approach in his early translation, offering a quote wherein the straw dogs seem to be treated somewhat cruelly, and reference to the Zhuangzi to interpret the Laozi for this particular image is a method that persists to the present day. English translations of this chapter see “not being ren” translated as emotively as “unkind”, “inhumane” or “cruel”. Although we cannot say that early forays in interpretation are responsible for later translation choices, we can assess the original interpretation against the broader context of the Zhuangzi as a whole. If we read further on in the original passage alone, we find a more developed context to consider, while searching the whole of the Zhuangzi for comparable passages offers an interesting foil for comparison. Beginning with a simple analysis of the term as it appears in the Laozi and its commentaries, this essay goes on to make a case for more thorough contextualization of challenging terms. We suggest seeking internal evidence and cross-reference between sympathetic texts, along with historical evidence, and consideration of authorial intent may be effective ways to offer a contextualized interpretation of “straw dogs” that may be more faithful to the concerns of authors employing the image.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Urban Deformation Monitoring using Persistent Scatterer Interferometry and SAR Tomography”
Authors: Budillon Alessandra , Crosetto Michele , Monserrat Oriol
Published: May 2019

This Special Issue hosts papers related to deformation monitoring in urban areas based on two main techniques: Persistent Scatterer Interferometry (PSI) and Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) Tomography (TomoSAR). Several contributions highlight the capabilities of Interferometric SAR (InSAR) and PSI techniques for urban deformation monitoring. In this Special Issue, a wide range of InSAR and PSI applications are addressed. Some contributions show the advantages of TomoSAR in un-mixing multiple scatterers for urban mapping and monitoring. This issue includes a contribution that compares PSI and TomoSAR and another one that uses polarimetric data for TomoSAR.
Colorimetric Analysis of Glucose Oxidase-Magnetic Cellulose Nanocrystals (CNCs) for Glucose Detection
Authors: Yee Ying Chuin , Hashim Rokiah , Mohd Yahya Ahmad Ramli , Bustami Yazmin
Published: May 2019

Glucose oxidase (EC 1.1.3.4) sensors that have been developed and widely used for glucose monitoring have generally relied on electrochemical principle. In this study, the potential use of colorimetric method for glucose detection utilizing glucose oxidase-magnetic cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) is explored. Magnetic cellulose nanocrystals (magnetic CNCs) were fabricated using iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) via electrostatic self-assembly technique. Glucose oxidase was successfully immobilized on magnetic CNCs using carbodiimide-coupling reaction. About 33% of GOx was successfully attached on magnetic CNCs, and the affinity of GOx-magnetic CNCs to glucose molecules was slightly higher than free enzymes. Furthermore, immobilization does not affect the specificity of GOx-magnetic CNCs towards glucose and can detect glucose from 0.25 mM to 2.5 mM. Apart from that, GOx-magnetic CNCs stored at 4 °C for 4 weeks retained 70% of its initial activity and can be recycled for at least ten consecutive cycles.
Mechanism of Action of Mangifera indica Leaves for Anti-Diabetic Activity
Authors: Ngo Dai-Hung , Ngo Dai-Nghiep , Vo Thi Thanh Nhan , Vo Thanh Sang
Published: May 2019

Diabetes is a major metabolic disorder whose prevalence is increasing daily. Medicinal plants have played an important role in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes via prophylactic and therapeutic management. In this study, Mangifera Indica leaf (MIL) extract was investigated for its promising anti-diabetic activity via an in vitro model. It was found that MIL extract possessed significant inhibition on alpha-amylase activity up to (51.4 ± 2.7)% at a concentration of 200 µg/mL. Moreover, glucose adsorption capacity of MIL was identified at (2.7 ± 0.19) mM glucose/g extract. Furthermore, the extract caused a significant increase in glucose uptake up to (143 ± 9.3)% in LO-2 liver cells. Notably, MIL extract was effective in scavenging (63.3 ± 2.1)% 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and (71.6 ± 4.3)% 2,2-azinobis-3-ethyl benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS)+ radicals and inhibiting (66 ± 4.9)% NO production from RAW264.7 cells without any cytotoxicity effects. Accordingly, M. indica leaves are suggested as a promising material for development of hypoglycemic products.
Preliminary Service Life Estimation Model for MEP Components Using Case-Based Reasoning and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Kwon Nahyun , Song Kwonsik , Park Moonseo , Jang Youjin , Yoon Inseok , Ahn Yonghan
Published: May 2019

In recent decades, building maintenance has been recognized as an important issue as the number of deteriorating buildings increases around the world. In densely populated cities, building maintenance is essential for ensuring sustainable living and safety for residents. Improper maintenance can not only cause enormous maintenance costs, but also negatively affect residents and their environment. As a first step, the service life of building components needs to be estimated in advance. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) components especially produce many maintenance-related problems compared to other components. In this research, a model was developed that applies the genetic algorithm (GA) and case-based reasoning (CBR) methodologies to estimating the service life of MEP components. The applicability of the model was tested by comparing the outputs of 20 randomly selected test cases with those of retrieved similar cases. The experimental results demonstrated that the overall similarity scores of the retrieved cases were over 90%, and the mean absolute error rate (MAER) of 10-NN was approximately 7.48%. This research contributes to the literature for maintenance management by not only presenting an approach to estimating the service life of building components, but also by helping convert the existing maintenance paradigm from reactive to proactive measures.
Prioritizing Elements of Science Education for Sustainable Development with the MCDA-FDEMATEL Method Using the Flipped E-Learning Scheme
Authors: Jeong Jin Su , González-Gómez David , Cañada-Cañada Florentina
Published: May 2019

Selecting and ordering components for sustainable science education is a critical issue, which is presently obtaining increased attention because of being at an early stage and scarce application in higher education. Though the flipped e-learning scheme is one of the novel information and communication technologies (ICTs), it can be of great relevance in a long-term learning program for various sustainable science education criteria. This research presents an approach to identify and analyze elements for science education for sustainable development with multi-criteria decision analysis-fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (MCDA-FDEMATEL) method by flipped e-learning system. With the method proposed, the main elements are collected as science-education, sustainable-development, technology-infrastructure and flipped-e-learning elements. The final results’ analyses with sixteen sub-elements are assessed with weighted linear combination (WLC) and sensitivity-analysis (I to VI implementations) in the context of the MCDA-FDEMATEL method. The most important element and sub-element for science education for sustainable development through flipped e-learning teaching are sustainable-development (as an element), VI implementation with 0.540 weight, and environmental contents (as a sub-element) with 0.570 weight. Consequently, this proposed approach could be used in different studies to validate the most important aspects of science education for sustainable development through flipped e-learning teaching elements and sub-elements with equivalent and comparable education settings.
The Effects of the Layouts of Vegetation and Wind Flow in an Apartment Housing Complex to Mitigate Outdoor Microclimate Air Temperature
Authors: Zhang Mengyu , Bae Woongkyoo , Kim Jeeyeop
Published: May 2019

Previous studies have demonstrated that vegetation and increased air flow can mitigate air temperature by employing numerical models, satellite remote sensing or Computational Fluid Dynamics simulations. This study aimed to examine how layouts of vegetation space and wind flow affect microclimate air temperature, which directly affects city dwellers’ thermal comfort in summer, in a real apartment housing complex in Seoul, South Korea. To do this, a Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes model was utilized, combined with a finite volume method CFD simulation, and which measured transpirational cooling effects of vegetation by comprehensively considering air humidity by transpiration, as well as wind flow of the surroundings, to reflect actual conditions of urban environments. Based on the computational model, nine scenarios including elevated building designs were simulated. The findings of this study are as follows: First, different layouts of vegetation and wind flow clearly affected microclimate air temperature in the housing complex. Second, when the total area of vegetation was the same, it was more effective to reduce air temperature by placing it in small units rather than concentrating it in one place, and placing small vegetation spaces close to buildings was better than locating them between buildings. Third, it was apparent that an elevated space works as a wind path, leading to increasing wind velocity. However, it was revealed that wind flow does not always positively affect hot temperatures.
The Use of Waste Biomass from the Wood Industry and Municipal Sources for Energy Production
Authors: Greinert Andrzej , Mrówczyńska Maria , Szefner Wojciech
Published: May 2019

Biomass can be used for the production of energy from renewable sources. Because of social resistance to burning crop plants, mixtures and pellets made from or including waste materials are a good alternative. The mixtures analyzed, prepared from wood and municipal waste, were characterized for their calorific values, 7.4–18.2 MJ·kg−1. A result, over 15 MJ·kg−1 was obtained for 47% of the quantities of mixtures being composed. It has been demonstrated that wood shavings and sewage sludge have a stabilizing effect on the durability of pellets. The emissions of acidic anhydrides into the atmosphere from the combustion of pellets from waste biomass were lower for NO, NO2, NOx and H2S than emissions from the combustion of willow pellets. Obtained emission results suggest the need to further optimize the combustion process parameters.
Sustainability and Quality Management in the Italian Luxury Furniture Sector: A Circular Economy Perspective
Authors: Barbaritano Marica , Bravi Laura , Savelli Elisabetta
Published: May 2019

The growing attention paid to global environmental risks has gradually raised interest, both on the agendas of firms and governments towards the development of new business models such as Circular Economy. This study is focused on the luxury furniture industry and it is aimed at investigating how much furniture companies know about Circular Economy practices, what they specifically do for implementing them and what factors motivate, support or hinder their adoption. The role of product and process certifications in developing such sustainable practices is also analyzed, given their importance for implementing environmentally sustainable practices. The research method is based on a qualitative multiple case study carried out on four Italian companies operating in the luxury furniture industry. A worthy degree of awareness and knowledge of Circular Economy principles emerged from the analysis. Nevertheless, furniture companies analyzed are still little involved in Circular Economy practices, especially concerning reuse and recycle actions, which are particularly important within this perspective. Similarly, very little use of process and product certifications emerged from the study. Therefore, a potential gap seems to arise between the positive attitude towards Circular Economy practices and their actual implementation, which suggests useful implications for both institutions and managers involved in sustainable development processes.
Gender and Age as Determinants of Job Satisfaction in the Accounting Profession: Evidence from Poland
Authors: Piosik Andrzej , Strojek-Filus Marzena , Sulik-Górecka Aleksandra , Szewieczek Aleksandra
Published: May 2019

One of the aspects of sustainable social and economic development is providing the public with the opportunity to conduct economic activity. This requires the proper development of information systems, identification of the determinants of performance, and development of the accounting profession. The aim of our study was to assess the sense of job satisfaction and prestige of the accounting profession in Poland, as seen by accountants themselves, depending on factors such as gender, age, and others. The background for the research was a country located in Central and Eastern Europe, which had just been through a political and economic transition. The study used questionnaire surveys and was based on nonparametric statistical methods: Chi-square, U Mann–Whitney, and the Kruskal–Wallis test. Herein, we provided evidence that strong feminization of the profession can be observed in Poland, and that women’s financial satisfaction with their profession was lower than that of men, in small companies as well as in companies without any foreign equity investment. We confirmed that age is more important than gender in differentiating perceived job satisfaction. The findings indicated that the assessment of the accounting profession should be considered when creating legislative solutions for sustainable social and economic development.
Effect of Total Quality Management Practices and JIT Production Practices on Flexibility Performance: Empirical Evidence from International Manufacturing Plants
Authors: Phan Anh Chi , Nguyen Ha Thu , Nguyen Hao Anh , Matsui Yoshiki
Published: May 2019

This paper presents the results of an empirical study investigating the relationship between Total quality management (TQM) practices, Just-in-time (JIT) production practices, and flexibility performance in manufacturing companies. Correlation and regression analysis are applied to analyze the data collected from 280 manufacturing plants in 12 countries including China, Finland, German, Italy, Israel, Japan, Korea, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, United Kingdom, and Vietnam from 2013 to 2015 in the framework of a High Performance Manufacturing Project. The analytical results confirm the closed linkage between TQM, JIT production practices and flexibility performance. Moreover, this study indicates that the effect of JIT production practices on flexibility performance can be strengthened with a higher level of TQM practices. The main findings of this study suggest that flexibility performance can be built up by implementing both TQM and JIT production practices, and TQM should be regarded as the platform to maximize the effect of JIT production on flexibility performance.
A Derivative of Butyric Acid, the Fermentation Metabolite of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Inhibits the Growth of a Staphylococcus aureus Strain Isolated from Atopic Dermatitis Patients
Authors: Traisaeng Supitchaya , Herr Deron Raymond , Kao Hsin-Jou , Chuang Tsung-Hsien , Huang Chun-Ming
Published: May 2019

The microbiome is a rich source of metabolites for the development of novel drugs. Butyric acid, for example, is a short-chain fatty acid fermentation metabolite of the skin probiotic bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epidermidis). Glycerol fermentation of S. epidermidis resulted in the production of butyric acid and effectively hindered the growth of a Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) strain isolated from skin lesions of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) in vitro and in vivo. This approach, however, is unlikely to be therapeutically useful since butyric acid is malodorous and requires a high concentration in the mM range for growth suppression of AD S. aureus. A derivative of butyric acid, BA–NH–NH–BA, was synthesized by conjugation of two butyric acids to both ends of an –NH–O–NH– linker. BA–NH–NH–BA significantly lowered the concentration of butyric acid required to inhibit the growth of AD S. aureus. Like butyric acid, BA–NH–NH–BA functioned as a histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor by inducing the acetylation of Histone H3 lysine 9 (AcH3K9) in human keratinocytes. Furthermore, BA–NH–NH–BA ameliorated AD S. aureus-induced production of pro-inflammatory interleukin (IL)-6 and remarkably reduced the colonization of AD S. aureus in mouse skin. These results describe a novel derivative of a skin microbiome fermentation metabolite that exhibits anti-inflammatory and S. aureus bactericidal activity.
Mutations in Both the Surface and Transmembrane Envelope Glycoproteins of the RAV-2 Subgroup B Avian Sarcoma and Leukosis Virus Are Required to Escape the Antiviral Effect of a Secreted Form of the TvbS3 Receptor †
Authors: Yin Xueqian , Melder Deborah C. , Payne William S. , Dodgson Jerry B. , Federspiel Mark J.
Published: May 2019

The subgroup A through E avian sarcoma and leukosis viruses ASLV(A) through ASLV(E) are a group of highly related alpharetroviruses that have evolved to use very different host protein families as receptors. We have exploited genetic selection strategies to force the replication-competent ASLVs to naturally evolve and acquire mutations to escape the pressure on virus entry and yield a functional replicating virus. In this study, evolutionary pressure was exerted on ASLV(B) virus entry and replication using a secreted for of its Tvb receptor. As expected, mutations in the ASLV(B) surface glycoprotein hypervariable regions were selected that knocked out the ability for the mutant glycoprotein to bind the sTvbS3-IgG inhibitor. However, the subgroup B Rous associated virus 2 (RAV-2) also required additional mutations in the C-terminal end of the SU glycoprotein and multiple regions of TM highlighting the importance of the entire viral envelope glycoprotein trimer structure to mediate the entry process efficiently. These mutations altered the normal two-step ASLV membrane fusion process to enable infection.
Spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N5 Viruses in Europe in 2016–2017 Appears Related to the Timing of Reassortment Events
Authors: Bergervoet Saskia A. , Ho Cynthia K. Y. , Heutink Rene , Bossers Alex , Beerens Nancy
Published: May 2019

During the epizootic of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N8 virus in Europe in 2016–2017, HPAI viruses of subtype H5N5 were also isolated. However, the detection of H5N5 viruses was limited compared to H5N8. In this study, we show that the genetic constellation of a newly isolated H5N5 virus is different from two genotypes previously identified in the Netherlands. The introduction and spread of the three H5N5 genotypes in Europe was studied using spatiotemporal and genetic analysis. This demonstrated that the genotypes were isolated in distinguishable phases of the epizootic, and suggested multiple introductions of H5N5 viruses into Europe followed by local spread. We estimated the timing of the reassortment events, which suggested that the genotypes emerged after the start of autumn migration. This may have prevented large-scale spread of the H5N5 viruses on wild bird breeding sites before introduction into Europe. Experiments in primary chicken and duck cells revealed only minor differences in cytopathogenicity and replication kinetics between H5N5 genotypes and H5N8. These results suggest that the limited spread of HPAI H5N5 viruses is related to the timing of the reassortment events rather than changes in virus pathogenicity or replication kinetics.
The Diagnosis of Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) Infection in Owned and Group-Housed Rescue Cats in Australia
Authors: Westman Mark , Norris Jacqueline , Malik Richard , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Harvey Andrea , McLuckie Alicia , Perkins Martine , Schofield Donna , Marcus Alan , McDonald Mike , Ward Michael , Hall Evelyn , Sheehy Paul , Hosie Margaret
Published: May 2019

A field study was undertaken to (i) measure the prevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) exposure and FeLV infection in a cross-section of healthy Australian pet cats; and (ii) investigate the outcomes following natural FeLV exposure in two Australian rescue facilities. Group 1 (n = 440) consisted of healthy client-owned cats with outdoor access, predominantly from eastern Australia. Groups 2 (n = 38) and 3 (n = 51) consisted of a mixture of healthy and sick cats, group-housed in two separate rescue facilities in Sydney, Australia, tested following identification of index cases of FeLV infection in cats sourced from these facilities. Diagnostic testing for FeLV exposure/infection included p27 antigen testing using three different point-of-care FeLV kits and a laboratory-based ELISA, real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) testing to detect FeLV proviral DNA in leukocytes, real-time reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) testing to detect FeLV RNA in plasma, and neutralising antibody (NAb) testing. Cats were classified as FeLV-uninfected (FeLV-unexposed and presumptively FeLV-abortive infections) or FeLV-infected (presumptively regressive and presumptively progressive infections). In Group 1, 370 FeLV-unexposed cats (370/440, 84%), 47 abortive infections (47/440, 11%), nine regressive infections (9/440, 2%), and two progressive infections (2/440, 0.5%) were identified, and 12 FeLV-uninfected cats (12/440, 3%) were unclassifiable as FeLV-unexposed or abortive infections due to insufficient samples available for NAb testing. In Groups 2 and 3, 31 FeLV-unexposed cats (31/89, 35%), eight abortive infections (8/89, 9%), 22 regressive infections (22/89; 25%), and 19 progressive infections (19/89; 21%) were discovered, and nine FeLV-uninfected cats (9/89; 10%) were unclassifiable due to insufficient samples available for NAb testing. One of the presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 was likely a focal FeLV infection. Two other presumptively progressively-infected cats in Group 3 may have been classified as regressive infections with repeated testing, highlighting the difficulties associated with FeLV diagnosis when sampling cats at a single time point, even with results from a panel of FeLV tests. These results serve as a reminder to Australian veterinarians that the threat of FeLV to the general pet cat population remains high, thus vigilant FeLV testing, separate housing for FeLV-infected cats, and FeLV vaccination of at-risk cats is important, particularly in group-housed cats in shelters and rescue facilities, where outbreaks of FeLV infection can occur.
Stream Power Determination in GIS: An Index to Evaluate the Most ’Sensitive’Points of a River
Authors: De Rosa Pierluigi , Fredduzzi Andrea , Cencetti Corrado
Published: May 2019

This paper focuses on the problem of measuring stream power in a hydrographic network using the original definition provided by Bagnold in 1996. Recent digital elevation models have enabled the calculation of channel gradients and, consequently, stream power with a finer spatial resolution, and this has created promising and novel opportunities to investigate river geomorphological processes and forms. The work carried out in this study includes defining and implementing a methodological approach that could be automated within a geographic information system and that meets two requirements: (1) it uses a DEM as input data at a suitable resolution; (2) it estimates the stream power Ω , as well as its variability along the considered stream, in the best possible way using available data. In particular, the methodological approach was implemented in a GIS environment (GRASS GIS) and applied to a sample basin to highlight the variability in Ω along the main stream and its most important tributaries. The sudden and more substantial variations in stream power were then related to the processes acting in the fluvial system. This approach made it possible to highlight how erosion, solid transport, and sedimentation phenomena occurring along the fluvial reaches are related to abrupt variations (increase/decrease) in the “power” available. The results of this study support the idea that the automated and standardized screening of stream power variability along a stream can be used as a preliminary diagnostic element to identify the most “sensitive” points of the stream on which to concentrate subsequent investigations (field checks to verify the causes), with the aim of mitigating risks due to the dynamics of the riverbed.
Intraseasonal Dynamics of River Discharge and Burned Forest Areas in Siberia
Authors: Ponomarev Evgenii I. , Ponomareva Tatiana V. , Prokushkin Anatoly S.
Published: May 2019

This study demonstrates the dependence between the forest burning rates and abnormal decrease in Siberian river discharges under the conditions of the permafrost zone. Our study area is in Central Siberia and Eastern Siberia/Yakutia. Four rivers (Podkamennaya Tunguska, Lower Tunguska, Aldan, and Viluy) were selected for the study. We analyzed the long-term and seasonal variation of river discharges (archive of The Global Runoff Data Centre for 1939–2015) together with the forest burning dynamics within the river basins (archive of Sukachev Institute of Forest for 1996–2015). We compared the discharges per year with the 77-year average value. Abnormally low levels of discharge constituted 58–78% of the averaged annual rate. An analysis of available chronologies of extreme fire events and relative burned areas (RBAs) showed a high correlation with intra-seasonal data on the runoff minima. The most significant response of river discharges to the wildfire effect was shown for the late summer/autumn season after extreme wildfires during the summer period. The deficit of the runoff was not explained by a low precipitation. Late summer and autumn anomalies of discharge were typical (r = −0.57…−0.77, p < 0.05) for rivers of Central Siberia in seasons of extreme forest burning. The correlation was lower for rivers of Eastern Siberia/Yakutia.
Dynamic Calculation of Breakwater Crown Walls under Wave Action: Influence of Soil Mechanics and Shape of the Loading State
Authors: Maciñeira Enrique , Peña Enrique , Sande José , Figuero Andrés
Published: May 2019

As a consequence of the action of waves on rubble mound breakwaters, there are loads—both on the vertical and horizontal sides of the crown walls—which modify the conditions of their stability. These loads provoke dynamic impulses that generate movements that are not possible to be analyzed by static calculation. This study presents the results obtained using a simplified method of dynamic calculation of the crown walls, presented in Appendix A, based on the variation of the forces acting against the structure in the time domain and the soil characteristics. It provides results of the expected movements of the structure and the deformations produced in the foundation. With this, traditional static calculation is improved and knowledge about the phenomenon is enhanced, highlighting the uncertainties in the system.
Extended-Range Runoff Forecasting Using a One-Way Coupled Climate–Hydrological Model: Case Studies of the Yiluo and Beijiang Rivers in China
Authors: Liu Lüliu , Xiao Chan , Du Liangmin , Zhang Peiqun , Wang Guofu
Published: May 2019

Extended-range runoff forecasting is important for water resources management and energy planning. Experimental extended-range runoff was hindcasted, based on an extended-range climate model, developed by National Climate Center of the China Meteorological Administration, and semi-distributed hydrological model HBV-D. The skill of the runoff forecasts was explored using mean square skill score (MSSS), anomaly correlation coefficient (ACC), and areas under the relative operating characteristics curve (AUC) for three terciles for three experimental 51-day periods during flood season (June 1 to July 21, July 1 to August 20 and August 1 to September 20) for two rivers in China. The results revealed decreasing trends of the five indices, and varying length of the continuous longest skilful time slice from 3 days to 6 weeks depending on index, period and river location. In most cases, skilful abnormal terciles forecast occurred more often or with similar frequency to deterministic forecasts. It suggests that ensemble probability forecasting is a method with potential for extended-range river runoff forecast. Further, abnormal terciles are more skillful than normal terciles, and above normal are more skillful than below normal. In terms of a temporal mean of the MSSS and ACC, deterministic forecasts are skillful for both rivers in all three periods, but more skillful for the Beijiang River than for the Yiluo River in most cases.
Khotbah Ekspositori yang Alkitabiah Menurut Nehemia 8:1-9
Authors: Saputro Sigit Ani
Published: May 2019

Abstract: Sermon is a part of a ministry in the church service. It oftenly considered as a way to convey the true God’s Word. However, not every sermon is biblical. This article aimed to give a description of a biblical expository sermon. This is a biblical research with exposition approach on Nehemiah 8:1-9. And the conclusion of the research gave four criterions of biblical expository sermon, those are: Preacher must have a wide knowledge, sermon must be text oriented, as an embodiment of a ministry and compliment to God, have a specific ability to communicate the Bible’s contents. Abstrak: Khotbah merupakan salah bentuk pelayanan yang dilakukan dalam ibadah. Khotbah sering diartikan sebagai sarana menyampaiakan kebenaran firman Tuhan. Namun tidak semua khotbah bersifat alkitabiah. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk memberikan deksripsi tentang khotbah yang alkitabiah. Artikel ini merupakan penelitian teks Alkitab dengan pendekatan eksposisi pada Nehemia 8:1-9. Kesimpulan memberikan empat kriteria sebagai khotbah ekspositori yang alkitabiah, yaitu: Pengkhotbah  harus memiliki pengetahuan yang luas,  khotbah harus tetap berdasarkan kepada teks, sebagai suatu wujud pelayanan dan pujian kepada Allah, memiliki ketrampilan khusus dalam mengkomunikasikan isi kitab.
Historisitas Gereja Protestan Indonesia bagian Barat Penabur Surakarta Sebagai Potensi Objek Wisata Religi
Authors: Yonathan Handri
Published: May 2019

Gereja Protestan di Indonesia bagian Barat (GPIB) Penabur Surakarta arose from a historical City of Surakarta with its particular philosophy of culture. Especially in its relation with Sultanate Palace which built with Javanese Cosmological considerations. This research aimed to describe a history of GPIB Penabur Surakarta. This description relates with church potency as religious tourism object in Surakarta. GPIB Penabur with historical and cosmological capital will be an option for heritage tourism in Surakarta as one of world heritage city. Through this involvement, the church not only present as a religious-spiritual entity, but also socio-economic capital.AbstrakGereja Protestan di Indonesia bagian Barat (GPIB) Penabur Surakarta hadir dalam perjalanan sejarah Kota Surakarta yang memiliki filosofi kebudayaan yang tinggi, Kehadiran ini bermakna terutama dalam hubungannya dengan Keraton Surakarta yang dibangun dengan pertimbangan-pertimbangan kosmologis Jawa. Penelitian ini mencoba melihat kesejarahan GPIB Penabur dalam konteks sejarah Surakarta yang lebih luas. Kesejarahan ini akan dilihat sebagai potensi objek wisata religi. Kota Surakarta sebagai kota budaya dan kota pusaka dunia adalah destinasi wisata di Indonesia. Dalam konteks ini GPIB Penabur menjadi opsi sebagai objek wisata religi di Surakarta. Melalui peran ini gereja hadir tidak sekedar sebagai entitas spiritual-religius, tetapi juga sosial-ekonomis.
Kairos Sebagai Golden Moment Orang Percaya
Authors: Sutoyo Daniel
Published: May 2019

Kairos is a word used which been distinguished from others Greek’s words that explaining about time. In human life, time is a most important thing, because every occurrence is related to the time. Every people yearn the happiest times like achievement and successful, such a golden moment in life. Kairos could be understood as a golden moment for every people. This article aimed to explain the meaning of kairos according to its usage in the New Testament’s context and the implication to the believers today. This is a research that used a word analysis method, namely the word of kairos. The conclusion is, that kairos is a form of a word using for the time which could be understood as a moment that every people could achieve what they were expected.AbstrakKairos merupakan salah satu bentuk waktu yang dijelaskan dari bahasa Yunani untuk membedakan dari bentuk waktu secara umum. Waktu dalam kehidupan manusia merupakan hal yang sangat penting, karena setiap hal terjadi berkaitan dengan waktu. Setiap orang merindukan adanya saat-saat yang menyenangkan, seperti pencapaian dan keberhasilan, semacam masa keemasan dalam hidupnya. Kairos dapat dipahami sebagai bentuk masa keemasan bagi setiap orang. Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan makna kairos secara konteks Perjanjian Baru dan implikasinya bagi orang percaya di masa kini. Ini adalah sebuah penelitian yang menggunakan metode analisis kata, yaitu tentang waktu. Kesimpulannya, kairos adalah sebuah bentuk waktu yang dapat diartikan seperti kesempatan agar setiap orang dapat mencapai sesuatu yang diidamkan.
A Theological Implication of ‘Humility’ in Mark 10: 13-16 from the Perspective of the Parable of the Kingdom of God
Authors: Wiryadinata Halim
Published: May 2019

The parable of the Kingdom of God brings the seriousness of studying about the meaning of what the Lord Jesus Christ wants to say. There are many arguments to say about the meaning of the Kingdom of God, while a new approach of the twentieth century appears. The study of historical Jesus by N. T Wright gives the idea of Jesus, Israel, and the Cross. If the parable of the Kingdom of God is retelling the story of Israel, then the new concept of the Kingdom of God should be different from the old Israel. The concept of humility should be seen as the way out of the Kingdom of God. Mark 10: 13 – 16 where the Lord Jesus Christ uses the concept of the little children, it apparently shows the helplessness and humility concepts as the way out for the Kingdom of God. However, the concept of humility should be seen as the proclamation of the Kingdom of God in the perspective of a mission to the people. Finally, the concept of humility also should not beyond the limitation of the Gospel. It should be in the line of the meaning of the Gospel itself. We are encouraged not to repeat what history happens, but rather to learn from the history of Liberation Theology.
Population genetic results of Hungarian Botrytis cinerea isolates establishing new technologies with decreased chemical usage against grey mould
Authors: Erzsébet Sándor
Published: May 2019

Botrytis cinerea causes gray mold on a high number of crop plants. Information about the populations of plant pathogen fungi may help to develop new strategies for the effective and economic crop protection with reduced fungicide usage. Hungarian B. cinerea populations were characterized with using different molecular genetic parameters. B. cinerea group I strains, characterized with high rate of fenhexamid resistance, could be detected only in restricted number. The Hungarian B. cinerea populations were characterized with high genetic diversity, and the regular occurrence of sexual reproduction. These results highlight the importance of rotating different type of fungicide in the plant protection technology against grey mould.
Opportunities for improving the nutritional value of cereal-based products
Authors: Péter Sipos  , Zoltán Győri  , József Kruppa  , Mariana Sándor  , Béla Kovács
Published: May 2019

We set up experiments for improving the nutritional value of cerealbased products. Our aims were to decrease the energy content of bakery products with the mixing of plant originated raw materials and byproducts with high fibre contents, and we have evaluated the effect of sodium-chloride on the physical properties of bakery products. We found that the apple pomace, the byproduct of juice production, is excellent for increasing of fibre content of bakery products and the further aim of investigation is to develop economical ways of hygienic byproduct handling and purification. Our experiments, evaluate the bakery use of triticale, have significant achievements and the breads made from triticale flour and whole-grain are commercially available nowadays. Our investigations included the possibilities of decrease of toxin contamination of cereals and our results can form a part of risk estimation systems after further experiments .