bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Challenges of Drought Prediction
Authors: Hao Zengchao
Published: February 2018

Advances in dynamical modeling and the use of hybrid methods have improved drought prediction, but challenges still remain to improve the accuracy of drought forecasting.
Administration Plan Would Cut USGS Budget by More Than 20%
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: February 2018

The plan emphasizes priorities such as energy and mineral independence and security. However, the sharp funding drop means that the agency won’t be able to support its full scientific portfolio.
NAD+ analog reveals PARP-1 substrate-blocking mechanism and allosteric communication from catalytic center to DNA-binding domains
Authors: Langelier Marie-France , Zandarashvili Levani , Aguiar Pedro M. , Black Ben E. , Pascal John M.
Published: February 2018

PARP-1 cleaves NAD+ and transfers the resulting ADP-ribose moiety onto target proteins and onto subsequent polymers of ADP-ribose. An allosteric network connects PARP-1 multi-domain detection of DNA damage to catalytic domain structural changes that relieve catalytic autoinhibition; however, the mechanism of autoinhibition is undefined. Here, we show using the non-hydrolyzable NAD+ analog benzamide adenine dinucleotide (BAD) that PARP-1 autoinhibition results from a selective block on NAD+ binding. Following DNA damage detection, BAD binding to the catalytic domain leads to changes in PARP-1 dynamics at distant DNA-binding surfaces, resulting in increased affinity for DNA damage, and providing direct evidence of reverse allostery. Our findings reveal a two-step mechanism to activate and to then stabilize PARP-1 on a DNA break, indicate that PARP-1 allostery influences persistence on DNA damage, and have important implications for PARP inhibitors that engage the NAD+ binding site.
Chiral DOTA chelators as an improved platform for biomedical imaging and therapy applications
Authors: Dai Lixiong , Jones Chloe M. , Chan Wesley Ting Kwok , Pham Tiffany A. , Ling Xiaoxi , Gale Eric M. , Rotile Nicholas J. , Tai William Chi-Shing , Anderson Carolyn J. , Caravan Peter , Law Ga-Lai
Published: February 2018

Despite established clinical utilisation, there is an increasing need for safer, more inert gadolinium-based contrast agents, and for chelators that react rapidly with radiometals. Here we report the syntheses of a series of chiral DOTA chelators and their corresponding metal complexes and reveal properties that transcend the parent DOTA compound. We incorporated symmetrical chiral substituents around the tetraaza ring, imparting enhanced rigidity to the DOTA cavity, enabling control over the range of stereoisomers of the lanthanide complexes. The Gd chiral DOTA complexes are shown to be orders of magnitude more inert to Gd release than [GdDOTA]−. These compounds also exhibit very-fast water exchange rates in an optimal range for high field imaging. Radiolabeling studies with (Cu-64/Lu-177) also demonstrate faster labelling properties. These chiral DOTA chelators are alternative general platforms for the development of stable, high relaxivity contrast agents, and for radiometal complexes used for imaging and/or therapy.
Precision antimicrobial therapeutics: the path of least resistance?
Authors: Spaulding Caitlin N. , Klein Roger D. , Schreiber Henry L. , Janetka James W. , Hultgren Scott J.
Published: February 2018

The emergence of drug-resistant pathogens has led to a decline in the efficacy of traditional antimicrobial therapy. The rise in resistance has been driven by widespread use, and in some cases misuse, of antibacterial agents in treating a variety of infections. A growing body of research has begun to elucidate the harmful effects of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy on the beneficial host microbiota. To combat these threats, increasing effort is being directed toward the development of precision antimicrobial therapeutics that target key virulence determinants of specific pathogens while leaving the remainder of the host microbiota undisturbed. This includes the recent development of small molecules termed “mannosides” that specifically target uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC). Mannosides are glycomimetics of the natural mannosylated host receptor for type 1 pili, extracellular appendages that promotes UPEC colonization in the intestine. Type 1 pili are also critical for colonization and infection in the bladder. In both cases, mannosides act as molecular decoys which potently prevent bacteria from binding to host tissues. In mice, oral treatment with mannosides simultaneously clears active bladder infection and removes intestinal UPEC while leaving the gut microbiota structure relatively unchanged. Similar treatment strategies successfully target other pathogens, like adherent-invasive E. coli (AIEC), an organism associated with Crohn’s disease (CD), in mouse models. While not without its challenges, antibiotic-sparing therapeutic approaches hold great promise in a variety of disease systems, including UTI, CD, otitis media (OM), and others. In this perspective we highlight the benefits, progress, and roadblocks to the development of precision antimicrobial therapeutics.
Freshwater transitions and symbioses shaped the evolution and extant diversity of caridean shrimps
Authors: Davis Katie E. , De Grave Sammy , Delmer Cyrille , Wills Matthew A.
Published: February 2018

Understanding the processes that shaped the strikingly irregular distribution of species richness across the Tree of Life is a major research agenda. Changes in ecology may go some way to explain the often strongly asymmetrical fates of sister clades, and we test this in the caridean shrimps. First appearing in the Lower Jurassic, there are now ~3500 species worldwide. Carideans experienced several independent transitions to freshwater from marine habitats, while many of the marine species have also evolved a symbiotic lifestyle. Here we use diversification rate analyses to test whether these ecological traits promote or inhibit diversity within a phylogenetic framework. We demonstrate that speciation rates are more than twice as high in freshwater clades, whilst symbiotic ecologies are associated with lower speciation rates. These lower rates amongst symbiotic species are of concern given that symbioses often occur in some of the most diverse, delicately balanced and threatened marine ecosystems.
Regulation of Medicinal Products for Human Use in the European Union
Authors: Stemplewski Henry E.
Published: February 2018

There is a considerable body of legislation governing the regulation of human medicinal products in the European Union. This legislation has evolved over the last fifty years, and it continues to evolve. The legislation is supported where necessary by scientific guidelines, including guidelines concerning safety aspects of medicines. The evaluation of human medicines is conducted through expert committees and subsidiary groups which cover all aspects of quality, safety and efficacy. This chapter discusses the evaluation of human medicinal products and the processes that lead to them gaining access to the commercial market, as well as the processes in place to ensure that marketed products continue to be monitored once in use.
Cosmetic Products
Authors: Finlay Tracey A. , Andrew David J.
Published: February 2018

In Europe, cosmetic products are regulated under the Cosmetic Products Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009), which was implemented in 2013 and applies to manufacturers, retailers, distributors and importers placing products on the European Union market. The Regulation replaced previous legislation and included a specific aim of strengthening the safety requirements for cosmetic products. Among other aspects, the Regulation introduced the Cosmetic Product Safety Report (CPSR), which must be provided for all products placed on the market; it introduced the concept of a ‘Responsible Person’, with legal responsibility for any cosmetic products placed on the market, and also established the Cosmetics Products Notification Portal (CPNP). This chapter provides insight into the toxicology data which are required to be compiled by a suitably qualified Safety Assessor in order to demonstrate product safety. The Regulation also established a ban on the animal testing of cosmetic products and their ingredients; the difficulties involved in demonstrating product safety without the availability of validated alternative methods are also discussed.
A controllable robust multiferroic GaTeCl monolayer with colossal 2D ferroelectricity and desirable multifunctionality
Authors: Zhang Shi-Hao , Liu Bang-Gui
Published: February 2018

We propose through first-principles investigation that the GaTeCl monolayer is an excellent two-dimensional (2D) multiferroic with giant mechanical anisotropy.
A compact skyrmionic leaky–integrate–fire spiking neuron device
Authors: Chen Xing , Kang Wang , Zhu Daoqian , Zhang Xichao , Lei Na , Zhang Youguang , Zhou Yan , Zhao Weisheng
Published: February 2018

This study presents a novel compact neuron device that exploits the current-driven skyrmion dynamics in a wedge-shaped nanowire.
Tailoring the mechanical properties by molecular integration of flexible and stiff polymer networks
Authors: Wan Haixiao , Shen Jianxiang , Gao Naishen , Liu Jun , Gao Yangyang , Zhang Liqun
Published: February 2018

Tailoring the mechanical properties of IPNs composed of flexible and stiff networks by MD simulations.
Elastic Ag-anchored N-doped graphene/carbon foam for the selective electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to ethanol
Authors: Lv Kuilin , Fan Yanchen , Zhu Ying , Yuan Yi , Wang Jinrong , Zhu Ying , Zhang Qianfan
Published: February 2018

3D macroporous hierarchical Ag-G-NCF can efficiently convert CO2 to ethanol with a low overpotential, high faradaic efficiency and high selectivity.
A new luminescent metal–organic framework based on dicarboxyl-substituted tetraphenylethene for efficient detection of nitro-containing explosives and antibiotics in aqueous media
Authors: Liu Xun-Gao , Tao Chen-Lei , Yu Huang-Qin , Chen Bin , Liu Zhen , Zhu Gen-Ping , Zhao Zujin , Shen Liang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2018

A tetraphenylethene-based luminescent metal–organic framework efficiently and quantitatively detected trace nitro-containing antibiotics in aqueous media.
Tailored pyroresistive performance and flexibility by introducing a secondary thermoplastic elastomeric phase into graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) filled polymer composites for self-regulating heating devices
Authors: Liu Yi , Zhang Han , Porwal Harshit , Tu Wei , Wan Kening , Evans Jamie , Newton Mark , Busfield J. J. C. , Peijs Ton , Bilotti Emiliano
Published: February 2018

A guideline for the selection of a secondary elastomeric phase in self-regulating CPC blends.
A facile hydroxylation of arylboronic acids mediated by sodium ascorbate
Authors: Gualandi Andrea , Savoini Andrea , Saporetti Roberto , Franchi Paola , Lucarini Marco , Cozzi Pier Giorgio
Published: February 2018

A mild and selective method for the synthesis of phenols has been described.
Neighbourhood‐aware out‐of‐network D2D discovery
Authors: Jaffry S. , Hasan S.F. , Gui X.
Published: February 2018

Device‐to‐device communication in 5G networks will require fast and efficient neighbour discovery. This Letter shows that with an initial knowledge of proximity, devices can increase discovery probability. However, in out‐of‐coverage scenarios, devices do not have information about neighbourhood which decreases the discovery probability. Hence, this Letter proposes an algorithm that enables neighbourhood‐awareness in out‐of‐coverage environments, and increases discovery probability.
Advanced layout techniques for high‐speed analogue circuits in 28 nm HKMG CMOS process
Authors: Meng F. , Li K. , Thomson D.J. , Wilson P. , Reed G.T.
Published: February 2018

The effect of optimising the transistor finger width on the performance of high‐speed analogue circuits in deep sub‐micron processes is investigated, demonstrated in a 28 nm high‐K/metal gate CMOS technology process. Silicon proven results demonstrate that the oscillator with a finger width of 440 nm gives the best performance based on the figure of merit (=142) among the benchmark design examples used.
Highly isolated crossed dipole antenna with matched copolar beams
Authors: Mirmozafari M. , Saeidi‐Manesh H. , Zhang G.
Published: February 2018

A bent crossed dipole antenna for dual linear polarisation applications is introduced. The proposed efficient techniques incorporated into the design provide the antenna with high port isolation and low cross‐polarisation. A better than 56 dB measured port‐to‐port isolation is achieved in the frequency range of 2.7–3 GHz. The cross‐polarisation level remains 40 dB below the copolarisation peak in both principal planes. A pair of matched copolar beams in the corresponding principal planes is obtained owing to the use of identical and symmetrical structures in orthogonal directions. These features along with simple geometry and inexpensive PCB fabrication make the proposed antenna a promising candidate for multi‐mission applications.
Kalman filtering for discrete‐time linear fractional‐order singular systems
Authors: Nosrati Komeil , Shafiee Masoud
Published: February 2018

This study considers the optimal linear estimation problem for the discrete‐time stochastic fractional‐order system in its more general formulation. The system is allowed to be in singular form, rectangular, with dynamical and measurement noises correlated. First, some new conditions for the solvability, regularity and causality to discrete‐time linear stochastic fractional‐order singular (FOS) systems are given, and then, a new Kalman filter (KF) fractional singular KF (FSKF) is designed for such systems. This general form of filter is derived using deterministic arguments in a completely self‐contained way besides the stochastic reasoning and covers the nominal singular and fractional KFs. Instead of the standard stochastic formulation, the filter recursions are obtained as a solution of a convenient organisation of the deterministic data‐fitting estimate of an entire state trajectory given the measurements for both time‐invariant and time‐varying cases. To present the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, results of numerical simulations are presented.
Finite‐time distributed global optimal control for linear time‐varying multi‐agent systems: a dynamic output‐feedback perspective
Authors: Ebrahimi Dehshalie Maziar , Menhaj Mohammad Bagher , Ghasemi Ali , Karrari Mehdi
Published: February 2018

This study presents a systematic procedure to solve the problem of finite‐time distributed global optimal control for the leaderless and leader‐follower homogeneous multi‐agent systems (MASs). Each agent's dynamics is given in general form of continuous‐time linear time‐varying (LTV) systems. The communication network among the agents is also assumed to be undirected and directed under fixed topology. First, based on asymptotic stability principle, inverse optimal results of general LTV systems are constructed. Second, the necessary and sufficient conditions are given for the existence of the distributed optimal state feedback and optimal dynamic output feedback control that solves a global optimal control problem for MASs. Then, the sufficient condition for finite‐time stability of both the state and the output feedback problems for MASs are stated. Finally, some numerical example results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed scheme.
Point‐based spatial colour sampling in Milano‐Retinex: a survey
Authors: Lecca Michela , Simone Gabriele , Bonanomi Cristian , Rizzi Alessandro
Published: February 2018

Milano‐Retinex is a family of Retinex‐inspired spatial colour algorithms mainly developed for colour image enhancement. According to the Retinex theory, a Milano‐Retinex algorithm takes as input an RGB image and processes the colour intensities of each pixel (i.e. the target) based on the spatial distribution of the colour intensities sampled in a surrounding region. The output is an RGB image, with locally adjusted colours and contrast. In Milano‐Retinex family, different ways of spatial sampling are implemented. This study reviews and compares these sampling characteristics within a group of Milano‐Retinex algorithms developed in the last decade, from Random Spray Retinex (2007) to the gradient‐based colour sampling schemes GREAT and GRASS (2017). Instead of exploring the target neighbourhood by random paths as the original Retinex algorithm does, these methods consider sets of pixels, randomly or deterministically defined, including all the image pixels or a part of them, such as random sprays or image edges. They replace the ratio‐reset‐threshold‐product‐average mechanism of the original Retinex with equations re‐working maximal intensities over the sampled sets. The performance of these approaches is compared with more than 200 images of indoor and outdoor scenes, captured by commercial cameras under several different conditions.
Multi‐level inverter with combined T‐type and cross‐connected modules
Authors: Khenar Mohammad , Taghvaie Amir , Adabi Jafar , Rezanejad Mohammad
Published: February 2018

This study presents a new topology of switched‐capacitor (SC) multilevel inverter, which is able to step‐up input DC voltage to a multilevel AC waveform. This single source inverter is designed based on series connection of the capacitors that charged by input DC sources through a SC network. The proposed modular inverter uses famous T and cross‐connected modules that can be simply extended to higher output voltages without increasing the amount of total standing voltage and peak inverse voltage of switches. It generates positive and negative voltage levels inherently, which eliminates requirements of H‐bridge inverters that are traditionally used to achieve a bipolar output voltage. Analysis shows that the voltage stress on components, cost, efficiency and losses are kept in acceptable range especially for higher‐voltage levels. Capacitor's voltage self‐balancing is another inherent advantage of this modular topology which leads to simplify control strategy and eliminate excess balancing circuit. Performance of a six‐step proposed structure is evaluated by theoretical analysis, simulation and experimental results.
Three‐state switching cell (3SSC)‐based non‐isolated dc–dc boost‐type converter with balanced output voltage and wide voltage conversion range
Authors: Torrico‐Bascopé Rene Pastor , Tofoli Fernando Lessa , Castelo Branco Carlos Gustavo , Cruz Cícero Marcos Tavares
Published: February 2018

This work presents a non‐isolated step‐up dc–dc converter with wide voltage conversion range based on the three‐state switching cell, which is suitable for distinct applications, e.g. renewable energy and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems. Prominent advantages can be addressed to the topology, i.e. continuous input current, thus making it a proper choice for the use of battery banks as the input voltage source; the ability to operate at high power, high‐current levels while maintaining current sharing through the main switches without the need of special control schemes; reduction of size, weight, and volume of filter elements, which are designed for twice the switching frequency; the maximum voltage across the controlled switches is half of the total output voltage; naturally balanced voltages across the dc‐link capacitors exist; and the voltages across the switches are naturally clamped to that across the output filter capacitor, avoiding the need for external snubbers. The complete qualitative analysis of the converter is presented, including the operating principle and a step‐by‐step design procedure. A transformerless online UPS topology is also briefly described as a potential application for the introduced converter. Finally, experimental waveforms obtained from a 1.55‐kW prototype are shown and relevant issues are discussed.
Research on improved control method of electromechanical actuation
Authors: Xiao Xi , Xiong Si , Wu Xia , Liu Dan
Published: February 2018

This study presents a kind of feedback between smooth and discontinuous feedback control method for electromechanical servo system. First, the construction and working principle of electromechanical servo systems was introduced on the basis of their structure characteristic. Then with the building of the electromechanical servo system structure, some research on the control strategy of permanent‐magnet synchronous motors has been developed control in the light of their control characteristics. Combined with the theory of the field oriented control and the structure features and performance metrics of the mechanical and electrical servo system, a simulation model for the mechanical and electrical servo system was built. The simulation result shows the reliability of this method.
Identifying two groups of massive stars aligned in thel~ 38° Galactic direction
Authors: Ramírez Alegría S. , Herrero A. , Rübke K. , Marín-Franch A. , García M. , Borissova J.
Published: February 2018

Context.Recent near-infrared data have contributed to unveiling massive and obscured stellar populations in both new and previously known clusters in our Galaxy. These discoveries have lead us to view the Milky Way as an active star-forming machine.Aims.We look for young massive cluster candidates as over-densities of OB-type stars. The first search, focused on the Galactic directionl= 38°, resulted in the detection of two objects with a remarkable population of OB-type star candidates.

Methods.With a modified version of the friends-of-friends algorithm AUTOPOP and using 2MASS and UKIDSS-GPS near-infrared (J,H, andK) photometry for one of our cluster candidates (named Masgomas-6) we selected 30 stars for multi-object and long-slitHandKband spectroscopy. With the spectral classification and the near-infrared photometric data, we derive individual distance, extinction, and radial velocity.

Results.Of the 30 spectroscopically observed stars, 20 are classified as massive stars, including OB-types (dwarfs, giants and supergiants), two red supergiants, two Wolf−Rayets (WR122-11 and the new WR122-16), and one transitional object (the LBV candidate IRAS 18576+0341). The individual distances and radial velocities do not agree with a single cluster, indicating that we are observing two populations of massive stars in the same line of sight: Masgomas-6a and Masgomas-6b. The first group of massive stars, located at 3.9$^{+0.4}_{-0.3}$ kpc, contains both Wolf−Rayets and most of the OB-dwarfs; the second group, located at 9.6 ± 0.4 kpc, hosts the LBV candidate and an evolved population of supergiants. We are able to identify massive stars at two Galactic arms, but we cannot clearly identify whether these massive stars form clusters or associations.
Global survey of star clusters in the Milky Way
Authors: Piskunov A. E. , Just A. , Kharchenko N. V. , Berczik P. , Scholz R.-D. , Reffert S. , Yen S. X.
Published: February 2018

Context. The all-sky Milky Way Star Clusters (MWSC) survey provides uniform and precise ages, along with other relevant parameters, for a wide variety of clusters in the extended solar neighbourhood.

Aims. In this study we aim to construct the cluster age distribution, investigate its spatial variations, and discuss constraints on cluster formation scenarios of the Galactic disk during the last 5 Gyrs.

Methods. Due to the spatial extent of the MWSC, we have considered spatial variations of the age distribution along galactocentric radius RG, and along Z-axis. For the analysis of the age distribution we used 2242 clusters, which all lie within roughly 2.5 kpc of the Sun. To connect the observed age distribution to the cluster formation history we built an analytical model based on simple assumptions on the cluster initial mass function and on the cluster mass-lifetime relation, fit it to the observations, and determined the parameters of the cluster formation law.

Results. Comparison with the literature shows that earlier results strongly underestimated the number of evolved clusters with ages t ≳ 100 Myr. Recent studies based on all-sky catalogues agree better with our data, but still lack the oldest clusters with ages t ≳ 1 Gyr. We do not observe a strong variation in the age distribution along RG, though we find an enhanced fraction of older clusters (t > 1 Gyr) in the inner disk. In contrast, the distribution strongly varies along Z. The high altitude distribution practically does not contain clusters with t < 1 Gyr. With simple assumptions on the cluster formation history, the cluster initial mass function and the cluster lifetime we can reproduce the observations. The cluster formation rate and the cluster lifetime are strongly degenerate, which does not allow us to disentangle different formation scenarios. In all cases the cluster formation rate is strongly declining with time, and the cluster initial mass function is very shallow at the high mass end.
An effect of humid climate on micro structure and chemical component of natural composite (Boehmeria nivea-Albizia falcata) based wind turbine blade
Authors: Sudarsono S. , Purwanto P. , Sudarsono Johny W
Published: February 2018

In this work, wind turbine blade NACA 4415 is fabricated from natural composite of Boehmeria nivea and Albizia falcate. The composite fabrication method used is hand lay up method. The aim of the work is to investigate an effect of humid climate of coastal area on micro structure and chemical composition of composite material of the blade. The wind turbine is tested at Pantai Baru, Bantul, Yogyakarta for 5.5 months. The micro structure scanning is performed with Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and material component is measured with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS). The samples are tested before and after the use within 5.5 month at the location. The results show that composite material inexperienced interface degradation and insignificant change of micro structure. From EDS test, it is observed that Na filtration reduces C and increases O in composite material after 5.5 months.
Geothermal Potential Based on Physical Characteristics of the Region (Case Study: Mount Karang, Pandeglang Regency and Banten Province)
Authors: Russel Fhillipo , Damayanti Astrid , Giok Pin Tjiong
Published: February 2018

This research is about geothermal potential of Mount Karang, Banten Province which is based on the characteristics of the region. This research method used is geochemistry sample of hot springs and integrated with GIS method for spatial of geothermal potential. Based on the geothermal potential, Mount Karang is divided into three regions, ie high potential, normal potential, and low potential. The high geothermal potential region covers an area of 24.16 Km2and which there are Cisolong and Banjar 2 hot springs. The normal potential covers Kawah hot spring. Index of the fault of Mount Karang region is one of the significant physical characteristics to determine geothermal potential.
Tidal Influence on Water Quality of Kapuas Kecil River Downstream
Authors: Purnaini Rizki , Sudarmadji  , Purwono Suryo
Published: February 2018

The Kapuas Kecil River is strongly influenced by tidal, in the dry season the intrusion of surface water is often a problem for the WTP because it causes the change of raw water quality to be processed. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of sea tides on water quality of the Kapuas Kecil River. The study was conducted in Kapuas River downstream along ± 30 km from the upper boundary to the estuary. Water sampling is carried out during the dry and rainy season, when the tidal conditions at 7 (seven) locations of the monitoring station. Descriptive analysis methods and regression-correlation statistics are used to determine the effect of tides on water quality in Kapuas River downstream. In general, the water quality of the Kapuas Kecil River has exceeded the criteria of first class water quality, ie water that can be used for drinking water. The status of water quality of the Kapuas Kecil River based on the pollution index calculation shows the condition of the river is “mild to medium pollutants”. The result of multiple linear regression analysis got the value of coefficient of determination (adjusted R square) = 0,760, which in whole show that independent variable (tidal and distance) influence to dependent variable (value of TDS) equal to 76%.
The Effectivity of Green Coconut Water To Reduce Mercury Level In The Blood And To Improve Blood Profiles And Liver Cells Appearance (Study In Sprague Dawley Rats)
Authors: Ehmeeda M Abdulrzag , Nur Kristina Tri , Suwondo Ari , Rya Sunoko Henna
Published: February 2018

When people are exposed to mercury chloride, it can produce a variety of health effects in the blood and liver. Coconut water contains Zn, Fe, Vit. C, Vit B11, Vit. B6, and Se to reduce mercury chloride level in the blood and improve blood profile and liver cells. Aim of this study was to analysis the effect of green coconut water supplementation in overcoming the toxic effect of Hg chlorid in the blood and liver of Sprague dawley rats exposed to Hg chloride. Samples were randomly about 36 animals rats exposed to HgCl2 through forced feeding by 20 mg/kgBW sondage per day for 14 days, which divided into control group, and intervention groups were given fresh green coconut water in each by 6, 8, and 10 mL/kgBW for intervention 7 and 17 days. The result of this study showed that there is a significant effect and the decrease in mercury levels in the blood. There is no significant affect on the hemoglobin level, hematocrit level and platelet count with the treatment of green coconut water in the mice with exposure Hg. There is no significant effect between treatments using green coconut water with SGPT levels; there is a decrease in SGPT levels at the increasing number of doses of green coconut water and the length of treatment.
Environmental Analysis of The Impacts of Batik Waste Water Polution on The Quality of Dug Well Water in The Batik Industrial Center of Jenggot Pekalongan City
Authors: Budiyanto Slamet , Anies  , Purnaweni Hartuti , Rya Sunoko Henna
Published: February 2018

The city of Pekalongan known as "Kota Batik" is one of Batik Industrial Centers in Indonesia with 917 batik industry. There are 203 batik industries located in Jenggot Village, which is the biggest batik industrial center in Pekalongan City. The process of making batik requires a dye derived from synthetic dyes containing heavy metals. Most of the waste is directly discharged into the environment without going through the processing first. This is due to the lack of optimal management of existing WWTP as well as lack of public awareness of environmental conservation. This condition has a negative impact on the surrounding community, especially in terms of environmental health. The result of measurement of 5 (five) batik industrial waste outlets and 5 point of batik waste water in residential sewer shows almost equal number for 3 (three) parameters of heavy metals Cd, Cr and Pb with average number: Cd 0.07 Mg / L, Cr 0.76 mg / L and Pb 0.78 mg / L. These three parameters exceed the maximum level of quality standard established by Government Regulation No.82 of 2001 on Water Quality Management and Water Pollution Control. The average result of the water quality measurement of the well digging population to the heavy metal content are: Cd 0,001 mg / L, Cr 0,002 mg / L and Pb 0.04 mg / L. Of the three parameters of heavy metals, heavy metals of Pb are on average higher than the maximum level of quality standards established by Decree of the Minister of Health Number. 492 / Menkes / Per / IV / 2010 regarding Water Quality Requirements. Potential occurrence of dug well water contamination due to infiltration of batik waste water is big enough. Survey results of 15 dug wells show that the construction of dug wells is not sufficient. There is a dug well with a damaged outer wall of 16.1%, damaged inner wall of 17.9% and a damaged well floor of 19.7%. Improper well construction impacts on the infiltration of batik waste water into the well. Survey results of physical well water quality showed 3.6% snoring, 16.1% smelly, 9.8% color and 10.7% taste. Pollution to dug well water can affect public health because it is used for daily use to drink, cook, bathe and wash because> 65% do not have other sources of clean water. The recommendation of this research is the need for waste water treatment batik starting from source through WWTP both on the household and communal scale with the role of local government as a facilitator. Society and batik industry players need to be involved in managing environmentally friendly batik industrial center.
Coastal Community Group for Coastal Resilient in Timbulsloko Village, Sayung, Demak Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Purnaweni Hartuti , Kismartini  , Hadi Sudharto P. , Soraya Ike
Published: February 2018

Coastal areas are very dynamic and fragile environment, demanding for policies to preserve these areas as materialized in the Resilient Coastal Development Program (PKPT) by the Indonesian government. Amongst the targeted area was Timbulsloko Village in Sayung District, Demak Regency, which coastal areas is severely damaged by erosion. This article analyzed the development of the Coastal Community Group (CCG) related to the PKPT program in Timbulsloko village, especially in how the group is empowered to increase the community’s resilient in facing the disaster. This study, applied an analytical descriptive method, used the development of the CCG as phenomenon. Primary data was collected through observation and in-depth interviews with stakeholders, accompanying the secondary data. The result shows that the PKPT funding was mostly spent on infrastructure development and used for project management, not for optimizing local economic empowerment. After the completion of the PKPT, there are no actions or following programs to keep the physical results constructed by the CCG. Accordingly, the orientation towards the CCG building capacity for Timbulsloko community’s ecological resilience had not been optimally implemented. This study recommended a "putting the last first" policy approach to preparing the local community. The government must play a stronger role in encouraging a self-help local group for strong human development
Paskibraka Member Selection Using A Combination Of AHP and TOPSIS Methods On The Office Of Youth And Sports Of Kutai Kartanegara Regency
Authors: Maharani Septya , Rahmania Hatta Heliza , Nur Anzhari Afif , Marisa Khairina Dyna
Published: February 2018

Paskibraka as troops whose job is to flap the heritage duplicates flag. To become a Paskibraka a selection that participants are high school students are made. Because the number of participants of the selection of many support systems to facilitate the assessment process is made. This system uses Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to determine the weight value criteria that comprise the value of the interview, health, physical, .height and value rules for marching as well as using Technique For Others Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) methods to seek best alternative participants. The calculation results of 21 alternative names best male and female of the participants and their school origin. The system has also been tested by performing the calculations manually using Microsoft Excel (Ms.Excel) to calculate the calculation of the system using AHP and TOPSIS.
Effect of Value Congruence, Brand Distinctiveness, Brand Social, Brand Warmth, and Memorable Brand Experience on Customer-Brand Identification and Brand Loyalty (Case Study: Brand of ACER Laptop)
Authors: Susanty Aries , Tresnaningrum Aprilia
Published: February 2018

This study has several purposes. First, this study aims to investigate the effect of consumer–brand value congruence, brand distinctiveness, brand social benefit, brand warmth, and memorable brand experience on customer-brand identification (CBI). We call all of those factors as the antecedent factor of CBI. Second, this study aims to investigate the effect of CBI on customer loyalty. Third, investigate the role of product involvement as a moderating variable of the relationship between brand distinctiveness, brand social benefit, brand warmth, memorable brand experience and CBI. This research used primary data collected through closed questionnaires using a Likert scale of 1 - 5. The total sample size was 273 respondents located in Semarang City who has or has been using Acer Laptop for minimal one year. This research was conducted using Partial Least Square (PLS) method through SmartPLS 3.0 software. The result of data processing indicated that all of the antecedent factors of CBI have the positive and significant effect on CBI of the user of Acer Laptop. In this case, among the five antecedent factors of CBI, value congruence has the greatest effect on CBI of the user of Acer Laptop. The result of data processing also indicated that CBI has the positive and significant effect on brand loyalty of user of Acer Laptop. This study fails to prove the role of product involvement as a moderating variable of the relationship between brand distinctiveness, brand social benefit, brand warmth, memorable brand experience and CBI of the user of Acer Laptop. Moreover, based on the result of hypothesis testing, this study gives some recommendation to Acer Laptop to develop or create some features which are match with the value of user of Laptop Acer in Semarang City.
Investigations of Bending Singularity Orders in a V-notched Composite Laminate Plate Based on the Ressiner-Mindlin Theory
Authors: Chen Chung-De
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the bending singularity at the apex of a V-notched composite laminate plate is investigated. The anisotropy of the laminate is modeled by the Stroh formalism. Based on the eigenfunction expansion method, the bending singularity orders can be determined by solving an eigenvalue problem numerically. The singularity orders depend on the plate angle, material orientation, material anisotropy and the laminate stacking sequence. The comparison cases show that the material orientation should avoid in order to reduce the bending singularity. The layers near the free surfaces have more significant effects on the singularity order. The findings presented in this paper are helpful in the design of the composite laminate with V-notch.
The Gradational Route Planning for Aircraft Stealth Penetration Based on Genetic Algorithm and Sparse A-Star Algorithm
Authors: Maoquan Li , Yunfei Zhang , Shihao Li
Published: February 2018

It is established for a gradational route planning algorithm which includes two layers. The first layer makes use of genetic algorithm to obtain the global optimal path by its global optimal characteristics. The second layer makes use of A* algorithm to obtain the local optimal path by its dynamic characteristic. When flying along the global optimal path, locating the new threat and confirming its performance, the aircraft can plan the local optimal path timely by A* algorithm. It is constructed for the cost function with two goals of the range and the average detection probability, which is used as the goal function for optimal path planning. Two paths that obtained from two optimal methods are merged to construct the optimal route comprehensively considering the threats and range. The simulation result shows that the cost of new optimal route is lower than the original optimal path obtained only by the genetic algorithm.It revealed that our algorithm could obtain an optimal path when a new radar threas occured.
Suppressive Role of Tissue Factor Pathway Inhibitor-α in Platelet-Dependent Fibrin Formation under Flow Is Restricted to Low Procoagulant Strength
Authors: Thomassen Stella , Mastenbroek Tom , Swieringa Frauke , Winckers Kristien , Feijge Marion , Schrijver Roy , Cosemans Judith , Maroney Susan , Mast Alan , Hackeng Tilman , Heemskerk Johan
Published: February 2018

Tissue factor pathway inhibitor-alpha (TFPI-α) is a Kunitz-type serine protease inhibitor, which suppresses coagulation by inhibiting the tissue factor (TF)/factor VIIa complex as well as factor Xa. In static plasma-phospholipid systems, TFPI-α thus suppresses both factor Xa and thrombin generation. In this article, we used a microfluidics approach to investigate how TFPI-α regulates fibrin clot formation in platelet thrombi at low wall shear rate. We therefore hypothesized that the anticoagulant effect of TFPI-α in plasma is a function of the local procoagulant strength—defined as the magnitude of thrombin generation under flow, due to local activities of TF/factor VIIa and factor Xa. To test this hypothesis, we modulated local coagulation by microspot coating of flow channels with 0 to 100 pM TF/collagen, or by using blood from patients with haemophilia A or B. For blood or plasma from healthy subjects, blocking of TFPI-α enhanced fibrin formation, extending from a platelet thrombus, under flow only at <2 pM coated TF. This enhancement was paralleled by an increased thrombin generation. For mouse plasma, genetic deficiency in TFPI enhanced fibrin formation under flow also at 0 pM TF microspots. On the other hand, using blood from haemophilia A or B patients, TFPI-α antagonism markedly enhanced fibrin formation at microspots with up to 100 pM coated TF. We conclude that, under flow, TFPI-α is capable to antagonize fibrin formation in a manner dependent on and restricted by local TF/factor VIIa and factor Xa activities.
Enhanced THz radiation generation by photo-mixing of tophat lasers in rippled density plasma with a planar magnetostatic wiggler and s-parameter
Authors: Abedi-Varaki M.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the effects of planar magnetostatic wiggler and s-parameter on the terahertz (THz) radiation generation through rippled plasma have been investigated. Efficient THz radiation generation by photo-mixing of tophat lasers for rippled density plasma in the presence of the wiggler field has been presented. Fundamental equations for the analysis of the non-linear current density and THz radiation generation by wiggler magnetostatic field have been derived. It is shown that for the higher order of the tophat lasers, the values of THz amplitude are greater. In fact, the higher order of the tophat lasers has a sharp gradient in the intensity of lasers, which leads to a stronger nonlinear ponderomotive force and, consequently, a stronger current density. In addition, it is seen that by increasing s-parameter, the normalized transverse profile becomes more focused near the axis of y. Furthermore, it is observed that the normalized laser efficiency has a decreasing trend with increasing normalized THz frequency for different values of the wiggler field. Also, it is shown that by employing a greater order of the tophat lasers and a stronger wiggler field, the efficiency of order of 30% can be achieved. Moreover, it is found that we can control focus and intensity of THz radiation emitted in rippled plasma by choosing the appropriate order of the tophat lasers and tuning of the wiggler field.
Emerging microbiome technologies for sustainable increase in farm productivity and environmental security
Authors: Singh Brajesh K , Trivedi Pankaj , Singh Saurabh , Macdonald Catriona A , Verma Jay Prakash
Published: February 2018

Farming systems are under pressure to sustainably increase productivity to meet demand for food and fibre for a growing global population under shrinking arable lands and changing climatic conditions. Furthermore, conventional farming has led to declines in soil fertility and, in some cases, inappropriate and excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides has caused soil degradation, negatively impacting human and environmental health. The soil and plant microbiomes are significant determinants of plant fitness and productivity. Microbes are also the main drivers of global biogeochemical cycles and thus key to sustainable agriculture. There is increasing evidence that with development of appropriate technologies, the plant microbiome can be harnessed to potentially decrease the frequency of plant diseases, increase resource use efficiencies and ultimately enhance agricultural productivity, while simultaneously decreasing the input of chemical fertilisers and pesticides, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and promoting environmental sustainability. However, to successfully translate potential to practical outcomes, both fundamental and applied research are needed to overcome current constraints. Research efforts need to be embedded in industrial requirements and policy and social frameworks to expedite the process of innovation, commercialisation and adoption. We propose that learning from the advancement in the human microbiome can significantly expedite the discovery and innovation of effective microbial products for sustainable and productive farming. This article summarises the emergence of microbiome technologies for the agriculture industry and how to facilitate the development and adoption of environmentally friendly microbiome technologies for sustainable increase in farm productivity.
Progressive approach for SNP calling and haplotype assembly using single molecular sequencing data
Authors: Guo Fei , Wang Dan , Wang Lusheng
Published: February 2018

Motivation

Haplotype information is essential to the complete description and interpretation of genomes, genetic diversity and genetic ancestry. The new technologies can provide Single Molecular Sequencing (SMS) data that cover about 90% of positions over chromosomes. However, the SMS data has a higher error rate comparing to 1% error rate for short reads. Thus, it becomes very difficult for SNP calling and haplotype assembly using SMS reads. Most existing technologies do not work properly for the SMS data.

Results

In this paper, we develop a progressive approach for SNP calling and haplotype assembly that works very well for the SMS data. Our method can handle more than 200 million non-N bases on Chromosome 1 with millions of reads, more than 100 blocks, each of which contains more than 2 million bases and more than 3K SNP sites on average. Experiment results show that the false discovery rate and false negative rate for our method are 15.7 and 11.0% on NA12878, and 16.5 and 11.0% on NA24385. Moreover, the overall switch errors for our method are 7.26 and 5.21 with average 3378 and 5736 SNP sites per block on NA12878 and NA24385, respectively. Here, we demonstrate that SMS reads alone can generate a high quality solution for both SNP calling and haplotype assembly.

Availability and implementation

Source codes and results are available at https://github.com/guofeieileen/SMRT/wiki/Software.
Generation of tumor antigen-specific murine CD8+ T cells with enhanced anti-tumor activity via highly efficient CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
Authors: Ouchi Yasuo , Patil Ashwini , Tamura Yusuke , Nishimasu Hiroshi , Negishi Aina , Paul Sudip Kumar , Takemura Naoki , Satoh Takeshi , Kimura Yasumasa , Kurachi Makoto , Nureki Osamu , Nakai Kenta , Kiyono Hiroshi , Uematsu Satoshi
Published: February 2018

Immunotherapies have led to the successful development of novel therapies for cancer. However, there is increasing concern regarding the adverse effects caused by non-tumor-specific immune responses. Here, we report an effective strategy to generate high-avidity tumor-antigen-specific CTLs, using Cas9/single-guide RNA (sgRNA) ribonucleoprotein (RNP) delivery. As a proof-of-principle demonstration, we selected the gp100 melanoma-associated tumor antigen, and cloned the gp100-specific high-avidity TCR from gp100-immunized mice. To enable rapid structural dissection of the TCR, we developed a 3D protein structure modeling system for the TCR/antigen-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) interaction. Combining these technologies, we efficiently generated gp100-specific PD-1(−) CD8+ T cells, and demonstrated that the genetically engineered CD8+ T cells have high avidity against melanoma cells both in vitro and in vivo. Our methodology offers computational prediction of the TCR response, and enables efficient generation of tumor antigen-specific CD8+ T cells that can neutralize tumor-induced immune suppression leading to a potentially powerful cancer therapeutic.