bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENINGKATAN PRESTASI DAN MOTIVASI BELAJAR PPKn SISWA KELAS VIII A SMP NEGERI 2 GEDANGSARI - GUNUNGKIDUL MELALUI PEMBELAJARAN GROUP INVESTIGATION
Authors: Ismiyati Ismiyati
Published: March 2017

Penelitian ini berangkat dari permasalahan dalam proses pembelajaran dan hasil belajar yang terjadi di kelas VIII A SMP Negeri 2 Gedangsari pada mata pelajaran PPKn. Proses pembelajaran tidak kondusif (siswa tidak fokus, berbicara dengan teman selama pembelajaran, tidak memerhatikan penjelasan guru). Prestasi belajar yang diperoleh siswa cenderung rendah (rata-rata 71,94 dari KKM 75). Selain itu, dari 34 siswa, hanya 10 orang siswa yang memenuhi ktiteria KKM. Bertolak dari permasalahan tersebut, tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk meningkatkan motivasi belajar siswa yang diharapkan akan berdampak pada peningkatan prestasi belajar siswa. Upaya ini dilakukan dengan cara mengganti model pembelajaran yang konvensional dengan pembelajaran yang inovatif, yaitu pembelajaran kooperatif tipe Group Investigation. Jenis penelitian ini termasuk Penelitian Tindakan Kelas yang menggunakan model Kemmis dan Taggart. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan teknik tes (untuk prestasi belajar), dan pedoman observasi (untuk motivasi belajar). Data yang terkumpul dianalisis dengan teknik analisis deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terjadi peningkatan motivasi belajar dari pra siklus ke siklus I dan siklus II. Rata-rata motivasi belajar siswa meningkat menjadi 32 pada siklus I, dan meningkat lagi menjadi 41 pada siklus II. Sedangkan prestasi belajar juga senantiasa mengalami peningkatan. Pada siklus I, rata-rata nilai meningkat menjadi 79,91 dengan ketuntasan sebanyak 26 orang. Sedangkan pada siklus II, rata-rata nilai meningkat menjadi 89,59 dengan ketuntasan sebanyak 32 siswa. Oleh karena itu dapat disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan pembelajaran Group Investigation dapat meningkatkan motivasi belajar dan prestasi belajar siswa pada mata pelajaran PPKn.
Variance associated with walking velocity during force platform gait analysis of a heterogeneous sample of clinically normal dogs
Authors: Piazza Alexander M. , Binversie Emily E. , Baker Lauren A. , Nemke Brett , Sample Susannah J. , Muir Peter
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine whether walking at specific ranges of absolute and relative (V*) velocity would aid efficient capture of gait trial data with low ground reaction force (GRF) variance in a heterogeneous sample of dogs.

ANIMALS 17 clinically normal dogs of various breeds, ages, and sexes.

PROCEDURES Each dog was walked across a force platform at its preferred velocity, with controlled acceleration within 0.5 m/s2. Ranges in V* were created for height at the highest point of the shoulders (withers; WHV*). Variance effects from 8 walking absolute velocity ranges and associated WHV* ranges were examined by means of repeated-measures ANCOVA.

RESULTS The individual dog effect provided the greatest contribution to variance. Narrow velocity ranges typically resulted in capture of a smaller percentage of valid trials and were not consistently associated with lower variance. The WHV* range of 0.33 to 0.46 allowed capture of valid trials efficiently, with no significant effects on peak vertical force and vertical impulse.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Dogs with severe lameness may be unable to trot or may have a decline in mobility with gait trial repetition. Gait analysis involving evaluation of individual dogs at their preferred absolute velocity, such that dogs are evaluated at a similar V*, may facilitate efficient capture of valid trials without significant effects on GRF. Use of individual velocity ranges derived from a WHV* range of 0.33 to 0.46 can account for heterogeneity and appears suitable for use in clinical trials involving dogs at a walking gait.
Sistem Perbentengan dalam Jaringan Niaga Cengkih Masa Kolonial di Maluku
Authors: Mansyur Syahruddin
Published: March 2017

In numbers of colonial archaeological research conducted by Balai Arkeologi Ambon, fort has been identified as the main archaeological remains in the Moluccas. The inventory shown that forts distributed in almost every islands of the Moluccas.Various research that has been conducted in the past are still unable to explain the historical context in this region. This situation was mainly based on the fact that these research only identify singluar fort in one area and not the larger spatial context. Adopting the historical-arcaheological perspective,this paper tries to understand the historical context of the forts spatial distribution in the moluccas in the relation to the spice monopoly in the region. This research found that the success of the spice trade monopoly is related to the fortification system developed by VOC in this region. Rangkaian hasil penelitian yang dilakukan oleh Balai Arkeologi Ambon khususnya bidang arkeologi kolonial menempatkan benteng sebagai salah satu tinggalan arkeologi yang dominan di wilayah Maluku. Hasil inventarisasi menunjukkan bahwa bangunan benteng tersebar di hampir setiap pulau di Maluku. Berbagai hasil penelitian yang bersifat eksploratif tersebut dirasakan tidak mampu menjelaskan konteks sejarah sebaran benteng yang ada di wilayah ini. Hal ini disebabkan karena setiap penelitian yang dilakukan hanya mengidentifikasi bangunan benteng dalam suatu daerah sehingga sebaran benteng tidak dipandang sebagai satu kesatuan konteks ruang wilayah tertentu. Melalui perspektif arkeologi-sejarah, tulisan ini berupaya memperoleh gambaran tentang konteks sejarah sebaran benteng khususnya dalam kaitannya dengan masa monopoli cengkih di Maluku. Dengan demikian, diperoleh kesimpulan bahwa keberhasilan sistem monopoli cengkih masa kolonial di Maluku tidak lepas dari sistem perbentengan yang telah dibangun oleh Belanda (VOC) sejak awal penguasaan mereka di wilayah ini.
Benteng Amsterdam di Pesisir Utara Pulau Ambon: Tinjauan atas Aspek Kronologi dan Fungsi
Authors: Mansyur Syahruddin
Published: March 2017

Fort Amsterdam is one of the fort in the fortifications system that was built by the VOC since the 17th century in the Maluku Islands. This research examines the micro aspects in the fortification system  by focusing on the  aspects of the chronology as well as the functions and roles of Fort Amsterdam. The bibliographical studies and the use of  historical records also adopted in this study.  The reslut of this research shows the chronology of the first fort built in 1629 as a trading post by VOC in the North Coast region of the island of Ambon. This fort then undergoes renovations both aimed to strengthen the defense function as well as trade and government functions in this fort. Amsterdam role both during and future VOC Dutch East Indies governement policies related to the clove monopoly on the Colonial period. Period of receding role of the fort was then happended along with the moment of the abolition of the clove monopoly by the Dutch in 1865.Benteng Amsterdam adalah salah satu benteng dalam sistem perbentengan yang dibangun oleh VOC sejak abad ke-17 di wilayah Kepulauan Maluku. Penelitian ini mengkaji aspek mikro dalam sistem perbentengan tersebut yaitu aspek kronologi serta aspek fungsi dan peran Benteng Amsterdam. Melalui kajian kepustakaan yang bersumber dari catatan-catatan historis, serta hasil penelitian terdahulu. Penelitian ini berhasil mengungkap kronologi benteng yang pertamakali dibangun pada tahun 1629 sebagai pos perdagangan VOC di wilayah Pesisir Utara Pulau Ambon. Benteng ini kemudian mengalami beberapakali renovasi yang bertujuan untuk memperkuat fungsi pertahanan serta fungsi perdagangan dan pemerintahan pada benteng ini. Peran Benteng Amsterdam pada masa VOC dan masa Pemerintah Hindia Belanda berhubungan dengan kebijakan monopoli cengkih pada masa Kolonial. Periode surut peran benteng ini kemudian mulai terjadi pada periode penghapusan monopoli cengkih oleh Belanda pada tahun 1865.
Peneliti Arkeologi di Indonesia: Antara Idealisme dan Kenyataan
Authors: Ririmasse Marlon NR
Published: March 2017

The archaeological research in Indonesia is in positive progress in the last years. This situation is reflected by the increasing of public and media interest  in the archaeological and cultural historical research activity. A main factor which is determine the quality of research result and the performance of the archaeological institution is the human capital. The quality and competence of researcher serve as the main factors in  developing archaeological research institution in Indonesia. This paper will discuss the performance of archaeology researchers in Indonesia with the main focus on the researcher in Balai Arkeologi Ambon. Analysis on the perfomance was conducted based on the synopsis of National Research Result Evaluation 2013. We hope that this paper might serves as the discussion medium to evaluate the performance of archaeological research and develop solution for the better perfomance in the future.Penelitian arkeologi di Indonesia semakin berkembang selama tahun-tahun belakangan. Hal mana tercermin dari meluasnya perhatian masyarakat dan media atas aktifitas riset arkeologi dan sejarah budaya. Hal mana juga berimplikasi pada meningkatnya ekspektasi publik atas hasil penelitian. Salah satu faktor kunci yang menentukan kualitas hasil penelitian dan kinerja lembaga riset termasuk bidang arkeologi adalah sumber daya manusia. Kualitas kemampuan dan kompetensi peneliti merupakan penentu kinerja dan capaian institusi penelitian arkeologi di Indonesia. Makalah ini membahas mengenai tinjauan atas kinerja peneliti arkeologi di Indonesia dengan fokus pada kinerja peneliti di Balai Arkeologi Ambon. Telaah atas kinerja dilakukan dengan mengacu pada tujuh parameter kinerja yang disampaikan dalam sinopsis kegiatan Evaluasi Hasil Penelitian Arkeologi Nasional 2013. Diharapkan makalah sederhana ini bisa menjadi ruang diskusi untuk melakukan evaluasi kinerja peneliti arkeologi dan membangun solusi bagi kinerja yang lebih baik ke depan.
Evaluation of Moduli and Structural Coefficients of South Carolina’s Asphalt Base Mixtures
Authors: Prowell Brian D. , James Tommy , Bennert Tom , Jordan Jayson
Published: March 2017

South Carolina, like many states, is moving toward implementation of AASHTOWare Pavement ME Design. In South Carolina, asphalt base mixtures are commonly referred to as black base. Dynamic modulus values are a significant input required for asphalt mixtures. Moduli for the actual mixes that will be used to construct the pavement are unlikely to be available at the time the pavement is designed. Consequently, catalogues of values or prediction models based on state specification ranges must be used for design. Dynamic modulus tests were performed on four production mixtures, representing six of the seven districts of South Carolina, according to AASHTO TP 79-15. These data can be used as the beginning of a catalogue of asphalt base moduli. Comparisons between predicted moduli, generated with both the Witczak and Hirsch models, and measured data indicate the inclusion of reclaimed asphalt pavement must be accounted for in the selection of binder grade used in prediction models to accurately predict moduli. Mixes with greater than 30% binder replacement required a two-grade high-temperature and a one-grade low-temperature increase in stiffness. South Carolina will continue to use the 1972 AASHTO pavement design guide until Pavement ME is implemented. Use of asphalt base mix for pavements designed with the 1972 pavement design guide has declined in South Carolina in favor of options that appear to be less expensive. However, if the structural coefficients used for the materials are inaccurate, pavements designed with different layers will not perform similarly. According to the measured moduli, it is recommended that South Carolina increase the structural coefficient for asphalt base mixtures to 0.44.
Implementation of the Structural Condition Index into the Louisiana Pavement Management System Based on Rolling Wheel Deflectometer Testing
Authors: Elbagalati Omar , Elseifi Mostafa A. , Gaspard Kevin , Zhang Zhongjie
Published: March 2017

Structural condition data are commonly collected at the project level with falling weight deflectometer measurements. However, recent developments in continuous deflection devices allow characterization of pavement structural conditions at the network level. This study introduces a framework for incorporating pavement structural conditions into the decision matrix of Louisiana’s pavement management system at the network level. The proposed framework fills the gap between network-level and project-level decisions, allowing more accurate budget estimation. In this study, rolling wheel deflectometer measurements were used to evaluate pavement structural conditions according to the structural condition index (SCI). Two enhanced decision trees, for collectors and arterials, were developed, such that both functional and structural pavement conditions are considered in the decision-making process. Implementation of the SCI in the decision-making process is demonstrated and is expected to improve the overall performance of the pavement network. Furthermore, the enhanced decision trees are expected to reduce the total maintenance and rehabilitation construction costs if applied to relatively high-volume roads (e.g., Interstate highways, arterials, and major collectors).
Determination of an Optimum Backcalculation Cross Section for Unconventional Pavement Profiles
Authors: Timm David , Tutu Kenneth
Published: March 2017

The validity of backcalculation results partly depends on the pavement cross section used in the procedure. However, the development of a backcalculation cross section is challenging, particularly for an unconventional pavement (subgrade stiffer than base). The unconventional stiffness profile poses challenges to backcalculation, including compensating layer effects. This study presents a systematic investigation to determine an optimum backcalculation cross section for seven unconventional pavements at the National Center for Asphalt Technology pavement test track. Apart from the unconventional stiffness profile, the granular materials had different stress sensitivities: the subgrade was stress independent, whereas the aggregate base material exhibited some stress sensitivity. Falling weight deflectometer testing provided 2,268 deflections for backcalculation, which was executed with Evercalc 5.0, and 126 deflection tests on embedded gauges for forward calculation, which was accomplished with WESLEA 3.0. Nine candidate cross sections were evaluated. The study converged on a three-layer backcalculation cross section that provided an overall good deflection basin fit, a balanced match between measured and predicted stresses, and reasonable moduli. A key lesson is that the as-built cross section of an unconventional pavement may not necessarily yield valid backcalculated moduli, although there may be a good deflection basin fit. A working knowledge of the pavement materials is useful for developing an optimum backcalculation cross section, which should be validated through field instrumentation when available.
Simulation of Lightweight Deflectometer Measurements Considering Nonlinear Behavior of Geomaterials
Authors: Tirado Cesar , Gamez-Rios Karla Y. , Fathi Aria , Mazari Mehran , Nazarian Soheil
Published: March 2017

Lightweight deflectometers (LWDs) are being used more often for modulus-based quality control of earthwork. One of the practical concerns about implementation of LWDs is that the equation used to estimate the LWD modulus is based on elastic half-space theory and does not account for the nonlinear behavior of soil and soil–impact plate interaction. The finite element method can be used to study the effects of nonlinear behaviors of geomaterials and the soil–plate interaction on the measured deflections. This study provides a means for accounting for the impact of these parameters on the measured responses and the depths of influence. A dynamic finite element model that considers the nonlinear behavior of geomaterials was developed to simulate the LWD on a pavement structure. A comprehensive range of single-layer and two-layer systems with a wide range of properties and thicknesses was considered. Transfer functions were developed to adjust the surface deformations and moduli from the responses obtained from a simple layered elastic static model. The study provides practical relationships that minimize the additional effort in implementing time-consuming dynamic finite element methods. The relationships proposed in this study can be used to estimate more representative target LWD modulus values.
Temperature Adjustment for Light Weight Deflectometer Application of Evaluating Asphalt Pavement Structural Bearing Capacity
Authors: Chou Chia-Pei , Lin Yi-Chun , Chen Ai-Chin
Published: March 2017

Researchers have been increasingly studying the application of the lightweight deflectometer (LWD) in asphalt pavement structural bearing capacity because of its advantages of light weight, easy maneuverability, and relatively low cost. Because asphalt is temperature sensitive, a rational temperature adjustment model is essential for application of the LWD. This study conducted a series of 24-h LWD field experiments on asphalt pavements with 10- and 20-cm surface layers, and a simplified temperature adjustment model was developed with only one parameter, the surface temperature. The 24-h LWD data were used to compare the developed model with three well-known temperature adjustment models: the Long-Term Pavement Project’s, Nazarian’s, and AASHTO’s. The findings indicate that the developed model receives the most consistent adjusted modulus among the four.
From the Baroque to Twitter: Tracing the Literary Heritage of Digital Genres
Authors: Taylor Claire
Published: March 2017

This article explores contemporary digital literary genres and the complex negotiations they undertake with earlier moments of literary experimentation. Exploring digital literary genres as works on a continuum, the article addresses in particular the ways in which authors of digital works in the Hispanic world speak back to rich Hispanic tradition of literary experimentation. In order to do so, the article takes three case studies from different countries: firstly, the hypermedia novela negra of Colombian author Jaime Alejandro Rodríguez; secondly, the blog aphorisms of US-Salvadoran artist and writer Eduardo Navas; and the electronic poetry of Spanish-Argentine author Belén Gache. The article traces their response to prior literary experimentation, and their engagement – often critical – with the discourses of contemporary digital technologies. In their different ways, these three authors make sustained intertextual references to prior generations of literary experimentation at the same time as making frequent metatextual references to the process of their works’ own (digital) creation. The article argues that, in so doing, their overt references to digital technologies themselves often play with, and yet question or thwart, key notions of interactive literature.
Digital Narrative: Negotiating a Path between Experimental Writing and Popular Culture
Authors: Ryan Marie-Laure
Published: March 2017

Is there room, between the aggressively avant-gardistic, conceptual, often not-to-be-repeated experiments of electronic literature, and the stereotyped or utilitarian narratives of computer games and social media, for new forms of narrative that take advantage of the affordances of digital technology without sacrificing what makes narrative so important for the life of the mind, namely its ability to capture actual or imaginary life experience ? In this presentation I will discuss three digital or semi-digital texts that could fill the gap between the ‘North Pole’ of novelty for novelty's sake and the Tropics of popular culture: the reworking of the tale of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ in the independent game The Path, the linear, multimodal story Inanimate Alice by Kate Pullinger, and the augmented book Night Film by Marisha Pessl.
On leaving work as a calling: retirement as an existential imperative
Authors: Bengtsson Mattias , Flisbäck Marita
Published: March 2017

In this article, we argue that we will reach a deepened understanding of what the retirement process means for individuals if existential meaning is the centre of attention. The data consist of qualitative interviews conducted in Sweden. A selected type of employee - whose work we define as a ‘‘calling’’ is examined to analyse the existential meaning of work and how it is formed and challenged in relation to the retirement process. Before their retirement, the interviewees had developed three main strategies for handling the process of de-calling: developing a ‘‘calling on standby,’’ - exploring self-improvement activities and listening to callings from other social spheres. After their retirement, three main strategies arose for dealing with being de-called: conserving the calling, learning to become a self-oriented subject and redefining the calling. In the case of conserving the calling, we show how this may result in experiences of economic exploitation and existential frustration.
From Intrusion Detection to an Intrusion Response System: Fundamentals, Requirements, and Future Directions
Authors: Anwar Shahid , Mohamad Zain Jasni , Zolkipli Mohamad Fadli , Inayat Zakira , Khan Suleman , Anthony Bokolo , Chang Victor
Published: March 2017

In the past few decades, the rise in attacks on communication devices in networks has resulted in a reduction of network functionality, throughput, and performance. To detect and mitigate these network attacks, researchers, academicians, and practitioners developed Intrusion Detection Systems (IDSs) with automatic response systems. The response system is considered an important component of IDS, since without a timely response IDSs may not function properly in countering various attacks, especially on a real-time basis. To respond appropriately, IDSs should select the optimal response option according to the type of network attack. This research study provides a complete survey of IDSs and Intrusion Response Systems (IRSs) on the basis of our in-depth understanding of the response option for different types of network attacks. Knowledge of the path from IDS to IRS can assist network administrators and network staffs in understanding how to tackle different attacks with state-of-the-art technologies.
The Experimental Study of the Temperature Effect on the Interfacial Properties of Fully Grouted Rock Bolt
Authors: Li Fuhai , Quan Xiaojuan , Jia Yi , Wang Bo , Zhang Guibin , Chen Siyin
Published: March 2017

This study analyzes the phenomenon of performance deterioration in fully grouted rock bolts in tunnels with a dry, hot environment and high geothermal activity with a focus on temperature effects on interfacial bond performance. Three groups of fully grouted rock bolt specimens were designed based on similar mechanical principles. They were produced and maintained at 20 °C, 35 °C, and 50 °C. Through the indoor gradual loading tensile test of specimens, variations of axial force and shear stress between the rock bolt and mortar adhesive interface were obtained under different environmental temperatures. Distribution of the axial force and shear stress on the anchorage section were found under different tensile forces. Results showed that, with an increase in specimen environmental temperature, maximum shear stress of the rock bolt section became smaller, while shear stress distribution along the rock bolt segment became more uniform. In addition, the axial force value at the same position along the pull end was greater, while axial stress along the anchorage’s length decayed faster. With an increase in tensile force under different temperatures, the axial force and maximum shear stress of rock bolt specimens along the anchorage section has a corresponding increase.
Simulation Analysis and Experiment of Variable-Displacement Asymmetric Axial Piston Pump
Authors: Gao Youshan , Cheng Jie , Huang Jiahai , Quan Long
Published: March 2017

The variable displacement pump control system has greater energy-saving advantages and application prospects than the valve control system. However, the variable displacement pump control of differential cylinder is not concurrent with the existing technologies. The asymmetric pump-controlled cylinder is, therefore, used to balance the unequal volume flow through a single rod cylinder in closed-circuit system. This is considered to be an effective method. Nevertheless, the asymmetric axial piston pump (AAPP) is a constant displacement pump. In this study, variable-displacement asymmetric axial piston pump (VAPP) is investigated according to the same principle used in investigating AAPP. This study, therefore, aims at investigating the characteristics of VAPP. The variable-displacement output of VAPP is implemented by controlling the swash plate angle with angle feedback control circuit, which is composed of a servo proportional valve and an angular displacement sensor. The angular displacement sensor is connected to the swash plate. The simulation model of VAPP, which is set up through the ITI-SimulationX simulation platform, is used to predict VAPP’s characteristics. The purpose of implementing the experiment is to verify the theoretical results. Both the simulation and the experiment results demonstrated that the swash plate angle is controlled by a variable mechanism; when the swash plate angle increases, the flow of Port B and Port T increases while the response speed of Port B and Port T also accelerates. When the swash plate angle is constant, the flow of Port B and Port T increases along with the increase of pump speed, although the pressure-response speed of Port B is faster than that of Port T. Consequently, the flow pulsation of Port B and Port T tends to decrease gradually along with the increase of pump speed. When the pressure loaded on Port B equals to that of Port T, the flow ripple cycle of Port B is longer than that of Port T, whereas the peak flow of Port B is higher than that of Port T. Since the flow ripple of Port T is bigger than that of Port B, Port T should be connected to the low pressure sides or the oil tank so that it does not affect VAPP’s performance. Further, to avoid the backflow of VAPP from Port T to Port B, Port T cannot be loaded alone, and the loading pressure of Port T also cannot exceed that of Port B.
The Process and Regulatory Components of Inflammation in Brain Oncogenesis
Authors: Mostofa A.G.M. , Punganuru Surendra R. , Madala Hanumantha Rao , Al-Obaide Mohammad , Srivenugopal Kalkunte S.
Published: March 2017

Central nervous system tumors comprising the primary cancers and brain metastases remain the most lethal neoplasms and challenging to treat. Substantial evidence points to a paramount role for inflammation in the pathology leading to gliomagenesis, malignant progression and tumor aggressiveness in the central nervous system (CNS) microenvironment. This review summarizes the salient contributions of oxidative stress, interleukins, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), cyclooxygenases, and transcription factors such as signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B-cells (NF-κB) and the associated cross-talks to the inflammatory signaling in CNS cancers. The roles of reactive astrocytes, tumor associated microglia and macrophages, metabolic alterations, microsatellite instability, O6-methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) DNA repair and epigenetic alterations mediated by the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutations have been discussed. The inflammatory pathways with relevance to the brain cancer treatments have been highlighted.
Novel Computerized Method for Measurement of Retinal Vessel Diameters
Authors: Guedri Hichem , Ben Abdallah Mariem , Echouchene Fraj , Belmabrouk Hafedh
Published: March 2017

Several clinical studies reveal the relationship between alterations in the topologies of the human retinal blood vessel, the outcrop and the disease evolution, such as diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and macular degeneration. Indeed, the detection of these vascular changes always has gaps. In addition, the manual steps are slow, which may be subjected to a bias of the perceiver. However, we can overcome these troubles using computer algorithms that are quicker and more accurate. This paper presents and investigates a novel method for measuring the blood vessel diameter in the retinal image. The proposed method is based on a thresholding segmentation and thinning step, followed by the characteristic point determination step by the Douglas-Peucker algorithm. Thereafter, it uses the active contours to detect vessel contour. Finally, Heron’s Formula is applied to assure the calculation of vessel diameter. The obtained results for six sample images showed that the proposed method generated less errors compared to other techniques, which confirms the high performance of the proposed method.
DNA Repair Pathway Alterations in Bladder Cancer
Authors: Mouw Kent
Published: March 2017

Most bladder tumors have complex genomes characterized by a high mutation burden as well as frequent copy number alterations and chromosomal rearrangements. Alterations in DNA repair pathways—including the double-strand break (DSB) and nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathways—are present in bladder tumors and may contribute to genomic instability and drive the tumor phenotype. DNA damaging such as cisplatin, mitomycin C, and radiation are commonly used in the treatment of muscle-invasive or metastatic bladder cancer, and several recent studies have linked specific DNA repair pathway defects with sensitivity to DNA damaging-based therapy. In addition, tumor DNA repair defects have important implications for use of immunotherapy and other targeted agents in bladder cancer. Therefore, efforts to further understand the landscape of DNA repair alterations in bladder cancer will be critical in advancing treatment for bladder cancer. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of DNA repair pathway alterations in bladder tumor biology and response to therapy.
Visible-Light-Active TiO2-Based Hybrid Nanocatalysts for Environmental Applications
Authors: Truppi Alessandra , Petronella Francesca , Placido Tiziana , Striccoli Marinella , Agostiano Angela , Curri Maria , Comparelli Roberto
Published: March 2017

Photocatalytic nanomaterials such as TiO2 are receiving a great deal of attention owing to their potential applications in environmental remediation. Nonetheless, the low efficiency of this class of materials in the visible range has, so far, hampered their large-scale application. The increasing demand for highly efficient, visible-light-active photocatalysts can be addressed by hybrid nanostructured materials in which two or more units, each characterised by peculiar physical properties, surface chemistry and morphology, are combined together into a single nano-object with unprecedented chemical–physical properties. The present review intends to focus on hybrid nanomaterials, based on TiO2 nanoparticles able to perform visible-light-driven photocatalytic processes for environmental applications. We give a brief overview of the synthetic approaches recently proposed in the literature to synthesise hybrid nanocrystals and discuss the potential applications of such nanostructures in water remediation, abatement of atmospheric pollutants (including NOx and volatile organic compounds (VOCs)) and their use in self-cleaning surfaces.
Caprolactam-Based Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquids for Biodiesel Production from Jatropha Oil
Authors: Luo Hui , Yin Heng , Wang Rui , Fan Weiyu , Nan Guozhi
Published: March 2017

Caprolactam-based ionic liquids show many advantages, such as the lower toxicity, lower cost, and a simple preparation process. In this work, caprolactam-based ionic liquids were prepared and adopted as catalysts for the transesterification of Jatropha oil with methanol. The results demonstrated that the SO3H-functional caprolactam‐based ionic liquids have higher catalytic activity than those of the caprolactam-based ionic liquids without sulfonic group or the SO3H-functional pyridine-based ionic liquids, attributed to their stronger Brønsted acidity. By optimizing the reaction parameter, the biodiesel yield catalyzed by 1-(4-sulfonic group) butylcaprolactamium hydrogen sulfate ([HSO3-bCPL][HSO4]) could reach above 95% at 140 °C for 3 h. Furthermore, the ionic liquid had a good reusability.
Borate-Based Ultraviolet and Deep-Ultraviolet Nonlinear Optical Crystals
Authors: Yang Yi , Jiang Xingxing , Lin Zheshuai , Wu Yicheng
Published: March 2017

Borates have long been recognized as a very important family of nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals, and have been widely used in the laser frequency-converting technology in ultraviolet (UV) and deep-ultraviolet (DUV) regions. In this work, the borate-based UV and DUV NLO crystals discovered in the recent decade are reviewed, and the structure–property relationship in the representative borate-based UV and DUV NLO crystals is analyzed. It is concluded that the optical properties of these crystals can be well explained directly from the types and spatial arrangements of B-O groups. The deduced mechanism understanding has significant implications for the exploration and design of new borate-based crystals with excellent UV and DUV NLO performance.
Impact Location and Quantification on an Aluminum Sandwich Panel Using Principal Component Analysis and Linear Approximation with Maximum Entropy
Authors: Meruane Viviana , Véliz Pablo , López Droguett Enrique , Ortiz-Bernardin Alejandro
Published: March 2017

To avoid structural failures it is of critical importance to detect, locate and quantify impact damage as soon as it occurs. This can be achieved by impact identification methodologies, which continuously monitor the structure, detecting, locating, and quantifying impacts as they occur. This article presents an improved impact identification algorithm that uses principal component analysis (PCA) to extract features from the monitored signals and an algorithm based on linear approximation with maximum entropy to estimate the impacts. The proposed methodology is validated with two experimental applications, which include an aluminum plate and an aluminum sandwich panel. The results are compared with those of other impact identification algorithms available in literature, demonstrating that the proposed method outperforms these algorithms.
Permutation Entropy for the Characterisation of Brain Activity Recorded with Magnetoencephalograms in Healthy Ageing
Authors: Shumbayawonda Elizabeth , Fernández Alberto , Hughes Michael , Abásolo Daniel
Published: March 2017

The characterisation of healthy ageing of the brain could help create a fingerprint of normal ageing that might assist in the early diagnosis of neurodegenerative conditions. This study examined changes in resting state magnetoencephalogram (MEG) permutation entropy due to age and gender in a sample of 220 healthy participants (98 males and 122 females, ages ranging between 7 and 84). Entropy was quantified using normalised permutation entropy and modified permutation entropy, with an embedding dimension of 5 and a lag of 1 as the input parameters for both algorithms. Effects of age were observed over the five regions of the brain, i.e., anterior, central, posterior, and left and right lateral, with the anterior and central regions containing the highest permutation entropy. Statistically significant differences due to age were observed in the different brain regions for both genders, with the evolutions described using the fitting of polynomial regressions. Nevertheless, no significant differences between the genders were observed across all ages. These results suggest that the evolution of entropy in the background brain activity, quantified with permutation entropy algorithms, might be considered an alternative illustration of a ‘nominal’ physiological rhythm.
Paradigms of Cognition
Authors: Topsøe Flemming
Published: March 2017

An abstract, quantitative theory which connects elements of information —key ingredients in the cognitive proces—is developed. Seemingly unrelated results are thereby unified. As an indication of this, consider results in classical probabilistic information theory involving information projections and so-called Pythagorean inequalities. This has a certain resemblance to classical results in geometry bearing Pythagoras’ name. By appealing to the abstract theory presented here, you have a common point of reference for these results. In fact, the new theory provides a general framework for the treatment of a multitude of global optimization problems across a range of disciplines such as geometry, statistics and statistical physics. Several applications are given, among them an “explanation” of Tsallis entropy is suggested. For this, as well as for the general development of the abstract underlying theory, emphasis is placed on interpretations and associated philosophical considerations. Technically, game theory is the key tool.
Multi-Scale Parameter Identification of Lithium-Ion Battery Electric Models Using a PSO-LM Algorithm
Authors: Shen Wen-Jing , Li Han-Xiong
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a multi-scale parameter identification algorithm for the lithium-ion battery (LIB) electric model by using a combination of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) algorithms. Two-dimensional Poisson equations with unknown parameters are used to describe the potential and current density distribution (PDD) of the positive and negative electrodes in the LIB electric model. The model parameters are difficult to determine in the simulation due to the nonlinear complexity of the model. In the proposed identification algorithm, PSO is used for the coarse-scale parameter identification and the LM algorithm is applied for the fine-scale parameter identification. The experiment results show that the multi-scale identification not only improves the convergence rate and effectively escapes from the stagnation of PSO, but also overcomes the local minimum entrapment drawback of the LM algorithm. The terminal voltage curves from the PDD model with the identified parameter values are in good agreement with those from the experiments at different discharge/charge rates.
Stability Analysis of DC Distribution Systems with Droop-Based Charge Sharing on Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Makrygiorgou Despoina , Alexandridis Antonio
Published: March 2017

Direct current (DC) distribution systems and DC microgrids are becoming a reliable and efficient alternative energy system, compatible with the DC nature of most of the distributed energy resources (DERs), storage devices and loads. The challenging problem of redesigning an autonomous DC-grid system in view of using energy storage devices to balance the power produced and absorbed, by applying simple decentralized controllers on the electronic power interfaces, is investigated in this paper. To this end, a complete nonlinear DC-grid model has been deployed that includes different DC-DERs, two controlled parallel battery branches, and different varying DC loads. Since many loads in modern distribution systems are connected through power converters, both constant power loads and simple resistive loads are considered in parallel. Within this system, suitable cascaded controllers on the DC/DC power converter interfaces to the battery branches are proposed, in a manner that ensures stability and charge sharing between the two branches at the desired ratio. To achieve this task, inner-loop current controllers are combined with outer-loop voltage, droop-based controllers. The proportional-integral (PI) inner-loop current controllers include damping terms and are fully independent from the system parameters. The controller scheme is incorporated into the system model and a globally valid nonlinear stability analysis is conducted; this differs from small-signal linear methods that are valid only for specific systems, usually via eigenvalue investigations. In the present study, under the virtual cost of applying advanced Lyapunov techniques on the entire nonlinear system, a rigorous analysis is formulated to prove stability and convergence to the desired operation, regardless of the particular system characteristics. The theoretical results are evaluated by detailed simulations, with the system performance being very satisfactory.
Increased Force Variability Is Associated with Altered Modulation of the Motorneuron Pool Activity in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Authors: Wang Zheng , Kwon Minhyuk , Mohanty Suman , Schmitt Lauren M. , White Stormi P. , Christou Evangelos A. , Mosconi Matthew W.
Published: March 2017

Force control deficits have been repeatedly documented in autism spectrum disorder (ASD). They are associated with worse social and daily living skill impairments in patients suggesting that developing a more mechanistic understanding of the central and peripheral processes that cause them may help guide the development of treatments that improve multiple outcomes in ASD. The neuromuscular mechanisms underlying force control deficits are not yet understood. Seventeen individuals with ASD and 14 matched healthy controls completed an isometric index finger abduction test at 60% of their maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) during recording of the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle to determine the neuromuscular processes associated with sustained force variability. Central modulation of the motorneuron pool activation of the FDI muscle was evaluated at delta (0–4 Hz), alpha (4–10 Hz), beta (10–35 Hz) and gamma (35–60 Hz) frequency bands. ASD patients showed greater force variability than controls when attempting to maintain a constant force. Relative to controls, patients also showed increased central modulation of the motorneuron pool at beta and gamma bands. For controls, reduced force variability was associated with reduced delta frequency modulation of the motorneuron pool activity of the FDI muscle and increased modulation at beta and gamma bands. In contrast, delta, beta, and gamma frequency oscillations were not associated with force variability in ASD. These findings suggest that alterations of central mechanisms that control motorneuron pool firing may underlie the common and often impairing symptoms of ASD.
Characterization of Active Anthocyanin Degradation in the Petals of Rosa chinensis and Brunfelsia calycina Reveals the Effect of Gallated Catechins on Pigment Maintenance
Authors: Luo Honghui , Deng Shuangfan , Fu Wei , Zhang Xin , Zhang Xuelian , Zhang Zhaoqi , Pang Xuequn
Published: March 2017

Anthocyanin degradation decreases ornamental or nutritional values of horticultural products. To investigate factors that may influence colour change in flower development, anthocyanin degradation was compared between the flowers of Brunfelsia calycina and Rosa chinensis, which show rapid and slow degradation, respectively. In-gel activity assays, high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of tannins, enzyme kinetics measurement and immune-detection of anthocyanin degradation related-perioxidases (PODs) were carried out for the comparison. Rose petals possessed significantly lower anthocyanin degradation-related POD activities than Brunfelsia petals, which may be related to the high tannin contents. Epicatechin gallate (ECG) and gallocatechin gallate (GCG) were detected in rose as 161.3 ± 12.34 and 273.56 ± 41.23 μg/g FW (Fresh Weight) respectively, while not detected in Brunfelsia. ECG and GCG inhibited the activities of the Brunfelsia POD with half maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) as 21.5 and 29.7 μM respectively, and increased the colour intensities of the anthocyanins. Catechin and epicatechin did not inhibit the POD activity, while serving as POD substrates, with Km (the Michaelis constant) as 0.48 and 1.23 mM. Similar protein levels of the anthocyanin degradation-related 40-kDa PODs were detected in Brunfelsia and rose. In summary, high amount of tannins, particularly ECG and GCG, in red rose petals may inhibit the degradation-related enzymes, leading to the maintenance of anthocyanins in vivo.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Irisin, Mediator of Physical Activity, Are Connected with TLR4/MyD88 Signaling Pathway Activation
Authors: Mazur-Bialy Agnieszka Irena , Pocheć Ewa , Zarawski Marcin
Published: March 2017

Irisin, an adipomiokine known as a mediator of physical activity, induces the browning of adipose tissue and it has potentially protective properties in the development of obesity-related states, such as insulin resistance, arteriosclerosis, and type 2 diabetes. Despite numerous studies conducted on this factor, still little is known about its impact on the functioning of immunocompetent cells, but its potential anti-inflammatory properties were previously suggested. In the current study we investigated the role of irisin (0–100 nM) in the downstream pathway activation of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 100 ng/mL). The results have shown that irisin in high concentrations (50, 100 nM) significantly decreased the TLR4 and MyD88 protein levels, as well as the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), consequently leading to the reduction in the release of crucial pro-inflammatory cytokines. The above was confirmed for interleukin 1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin 6 (IL-6), keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1), as well as for high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1). Moreover, our results indicate that this effect is connected with irisin’s impact on the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), where a significant reduction in p-JNK and p-ERK but not p-p38 was observed. In conclusion, these data suggest that irisin has potentially anti-inflammatory properties connected with the downregulation of downstream pathways of TLR4/MyD88.
Unconventional Transport Routes of Soluble and Membrane Proteins and Their Role in Developmental Biology
Authors: Pompa Andrea , De Marchis Francesca , Pallotta Maria Teresa , Benitez-Alfonso Yoselin , Jones Alexandra , Schipper Kerstin , Moreau Kevin , Žárský Viktor , Di Sansebastiano Gian Pietro , Bellucci Michele
Published: March 2017

Many proteins and cargoes in eukaryotic cells are secreted through the conventional secretory pathway that brings proteins and membranes from the endoplasmic reticulum to the plasma membrane, passing through various cell compartments, and then the extracellular space. The recent identification of an increasing number of leaderless secreted proteins bypassing the Golgi apparatus unveiled the existence of alternative protein secretion pathways. Moreover, other unconventional routes for secretion of soluble or transmembrane proteins with initial endoplasmic reticulum localization were identified. Furthermore, other proteins normally functioning in conventional membrane traffic or in the biogenesis of unique plant/fungi organelles or in plasmodesmata transport seem to be involved in unconventional secretory pathways. These alternative pathways are functionally related to biotic stress and development, and are becoming more and more important in cell biology studies in yeast, mammalian cells and in plants. The city of Lecce hosted specialists working on mammals, plants and microorganisms for the inaugural meeting on “Unconventional Protein and Membrane Traffic” (UPMT) during 4–7 October 2016. The main aim of the meeting was to include the highest number of topics, summarized in this report, related to the unconventional transport routes of protein and membranes.